This chapter concludes the hunter's outpost job for the second team, but with what transpired, will they survive the wrath of the Gnoll Queen...? what will happen with Team 1 during their travels, so many questions and they can be answered, right now!

Chapter 16

A new road (Part 3)

With Team 2

In a nearly empty Barnhouse, Inigo and Lucien worked on the ropes to keep Razzfang down, as Yuriana rested on her large golden hammer.

The khajiit gave a sigh, "And that should be it for the ropes, if he manages to break through these, it'll be by a miracle,"

"I hope so, he seems big enough to eat of these," Lucien sweated.

Yuriana shook her head, "Even then with his size I doubt it'll be easy for him to, not to mention those knots are pretty tight,"

"So what do we do now? wait until he wakes up?" The imperial asked, getting a nod from Inigo.

"Don't have a choice, unless you plan on 'Waking' him up, I don't see any other way,"

Right as he said that, old man Pao stepped in...

"By the clouds' rain, what's a Gnoll doing here?" he asked with a surprised look.

They rose an eyebrow upon hearing that, glancing at the large Gnoll.

"So that's what they're called...Good to know," Inigo inquired, "As for he's doing here, he was the one leading the ones responsible for the butchering of your animals,"

Yuriana nodded, "We just have yet to wake him up, just got done tying him down first,"

"Here's hoping he doesn't try to get out of these the moment he does..." Lucien sighed, "Whenever you guys are ready, we can begin the questioning,"

"All Gnolls are mentally linked to a Packleader, and that link is so strong that the strongest magic user from the east can't do anything about it." the old man stated, "During my days, I fought a couple of their larger ones. That was before the peace that was established between us. I wonder what pushed them to become so hostile..."

Yuriana grinned, "Well, luckily for all of here, we're about to find out," turning her head, "Inigo can you-?"

"Way ahead of you," The khajiit concurred, pulling out a small bag of salts and holding it under Razz's nose.

The Large Gnoll coughed and roused, his eyes slowly opening...

He looked at them and recognized Inigo. However, he just growled while gritting his teeth.

The khajiit gave him a dangerous glare, ear twitching, "Welcome back to the world of the living, I hope you slept well, because we've lots to talk about,"

Lucien grabbed a chair and sat it down in front of him, taking a seat, "Hello there, I'm Lucien Flavius, the crew's fair negotiator, but I will not back down from you, Mr. Razzfang...You give us what we want and we'll let you go, simple as that," with a smile, before it faded, "You don't do it and we'll let you talk to our friend, Yuri, and I don't think she'll be as nice as me,"

The gnoll shifted his head towards the woman, who gave him a blank stare in return.

"Yuri smash..." She simply said, glaring coldly at him.

The Gnoll growled hatefully without saying a word.

Lucien sighed, "Listen, we don't want this to turn ugly, but it WILL...!" in a serious tone, "All we're asking, is why these attacks have been happening... from what Inigo tells me, it has something to do with Stolen land...we can start there,"

The Gnoll continued to growl without saying a single word.

Yuriana shook her head, "It's no use, Lucien, I think he's too stupid to understand the situation he's in," narrowing her eyes on him, "Let me talk to him, I'll get him to croak in no time..." in a dark tone.

"Not...not yet, hold off on that," The imperial said, turning back to him, "This is your LAST chance, Mr. Razzfang, I really don't want to do this to you, but your stubbornness is making this impossible...talk to us,"

Inigo narrowed his glare, "Or we'll leave and let you talk to Yuri...what's it going to be?"

The glare was more hateful when he glared at Inigo, beginning to fight off against the ropes.

"It's no use." Pao said, "Gnolls are very attached to their packs. They'd rather die than betray their own."

Lucien nodded in thought, "Pack mentality huh? alright then," turning to old man pao, "Would you happen to know where their territory is...? because if that's the case, i've got an idea,"

"You do?" Inigo asked with rose eyebrow.

"Yeah," The imperial said, turning to Yuriana, "Go ahead and put him back out, we don't need him conscious for this..."

The Redhead obliged with a nod, walking up to him and giving his kneck a pinch, watching him go back out, "So what this idea of yours?"

The scholar then pulled out a small device from his pocket, "Simple, if he won't talk to us, he can lead us there, we just need to make sure he can't get rid of it..."

Inigo slowly nodded, "So where are we putting this...? hopefully not where I think it's going,"

"Nothing that barbaric, it has to go somewhere under his fur, most likely the back," Lucien said, "I need him untied and on the table, after I'm done, heal him up, Yuri,"

"Will do," was her response, as she and Inigo went to untie him, laying him down on his stomach.

Lucien then drew a dwarven dagger, standing over him, "Give me a few minutes guys, this won't take long,"

A cry was heard as the old man rushed outside. Then, whopping was heard, alongside giggles.

The imperial frowned, pausing, "What was that...?"

Inigo took a couple of sniffs, his ears going low, "Looks like our Gnoll friends are back for another round,"

"Didn't we just beat them?" Yuriana stated, grabbing her hammer, "Alright, guess it's time to clean house...again,"

The khajiit shook his head, "No, stay here and help Lucien," drawing his sword and pistol, "I'll check that out," leaving the barnhouse.

"Be careful Inigo, might be more than last time..." Lucien called out, before turning to Yuri, "Okay, we need to do this quickly, come on," slowly slicing into his back...

...

The khajiit made it outside, "You okay out here old man?" he called out, before finding themselves surrounded by Gnolls, "Oh..."

More than that, they had the old man Pao's daughter as hostage. One of them threw a rock where was written, [Friends of landstealers are to come alone. No tricks allowed.] They then disappeared with the girl.

"Ming..." Pao had a horrified look on his face.

Inigo holstered his pistol to pick up the thrown rock, and read it over before taking a sigh, "By the gods..." turning to the old panderan, "They want us to come to them alone," a scowl etching on his face "and we will, as well as get your daughter back," he swore.

"How could the spirit let that happen?" Pao stated as sadness began to take him.

Inigo sheathed his sword, "I think this was retaliation for fighting the attack off earlier," walking back to the barnhouse, "I'm going to see if my friends are done making the preparations, if they're done, we'll have her back before the nights over,"

...

Lucien sighed, taking off the leather gloves, "And done, help me close this up," putting a healing spell over the wound.

Yuriana joined him in healing the wound, closing it up in mere seconds, "Are you sure he won't be able to find this, it's deep enough?"

"He'll be able to move with that tracker without any problems, might have a slight discomfort, but it won't be anything he'll know..." The imperial explained, "Help me get him to the chair,"

The Redhead obliged and helped Lucien sit him back in the chair they had him in, making sure he was positioned right on it.

"Now all we gotta do is wake him up now and send him on his way..." Lucien said, looking around, "Now if I could just find those salts,"

Right then, Inigo walked in, "How'd it go? is it done?"

"Yeah, we've got it in him, in a good place," The imperial began with, picking up Inigo's worried expression, "Why? what happened out there?"

"We're going to have to let Razzfang go, the situation has changed, " Inigo breathed, "Those Gnolls came back and they took Pao's daughter this time,"

Both Lucien and Yuriana shared shocked expressions...

"What?! they took Ming?" The imperial almost yelled out, stopping himself.

"By the gods...that's not good, if what they're saying about what these Gnoll did to their livestock is true, there's no telling what they'll do to someone like her," The Redhead grimaced.

Inigo nodded, "Which is why we need to let him go," pulling out the waking salts again, putting it under Razzfang's nose, getting to cough and rouse again, "Wakey wakey~ today's your lucky day, we decided to let you go..."

Razzfang growled again. But this time he roared as a red aura enveloped him, causing the chair to break as he ran off on his four limbs.

"And there he goes," Inigo commented, turning to Lucien, "Are you sure this will work?"

The imperial clicked a small button, "Check your scouters, you should have his location now,"

Yuriana and Inigo dorned their dwarven tech, clicking them on as they got a small signal, heading further and further from him.

"Yeah, I got him, he's going southeast, basically where he tried to flee the first time..." Inigo noted, "Once he stops, we'll know where their base is, that gives us enough time to grab our gear,"

The Redhead nodded, clicking off the scouter, "I'll fetch our stuff, just let me know when that signal stops," leaving the barn.

"Will do," Inigo said, watching her leave, "While's she's doing that, we need to check on his wife, see if they got her too or if she hid,"

Razzfang ran as fast as he could before stopping at a cemetery where there was a lot of giant bone.

"Curse friends of landstealers! Razzfang knows that they did something!" he began to scratch his back as there was an irritation there "If they want that Razzfang spreads a disease among the members of the pack then they're wrong!"

After awhile, some Gnolls began to approach him while whopping. Razzfang whopped back and giggled before growling. The Gnolls nodded before leaving Razzfang alone.

With team 1...

En route to Village 3

The caravan traveled the road to their next stop. despite the attack on the earlier, they proceeded without any problems. As for Traysek's team, they no longer kept their hoods up, figuring that time has passed after their previous battle...

Traysek and Erik were wide awake on their mounts, eating a bit of dried meat and drinking the water they had on them, which kept them awake...

Recorder, on the other hand, was passed out on the back of hers, snoring as her mount carried on.

"By the gods, she's still passed out...?" Erik said in a low tone.

Traysek shook his head at that, "Looks like someone stayed up way longer than we did," sighing, "Dumbass... once we're there, I'll wake her up, for now, let her rest,"

"Aye sir," The nord complied, facing forward.

"Finally! Ulak Village!" Dydene stated happily as she looked at a sentinel tower where a couple of Dark Elves were sitting, looking around.

Once they arrived at the gate, Traysek reached over and shook Recorder, "Oi, wake up, we're here!"

"Mmh...?" She groaned, raising her head with a yawn, "Where are we...?"

"We're at another village, a place called "Ulak" from Caravan lead's description," Erik explained, putting away his water.

Recorder stretched her arms, before giving the gate a good look, "I see that," giving another yawn, "Hopefully we actually explore this time, haven't been able for the last couple of visits..."

The sword wielder handed Recorder a bottle of a green liquid, "To fight off... the tiredness..." he mumbled with a voice barely noticeable.

She blinked twice, feeling a small blush come up, taking the bottle, "Um...thank you, again..." taking a couple of gulps, scrunching her face at the taste as her sight brightened up "Ugh...that's not a taste to get used to," capping the rest.

Traysek noticed and smirked, "Got yourself a bit of pick-me-up huh...?" turning to the elven soldier, mouthing 'Thank you' to him, before turning back around.

Erik spotted a dark elf and strangely pale orc with red markings all over him approaching the Caravan, "Heads up guys, we've got some scary customers coming in,"

"Welcome to Ulak Village" the Dark Elf greeted with a smile "You must be the caravan of Yamakhros, I'm Heltia, current chieftain of this village. And this, is our guardian." she pointed to the orc next to her, who was eyeing the others cautiously.

The trio gave him an overall stare, the Redguard narrowing his eyes slightly when his attention made its way to them.

'So he's this village's guardian...interesting...' Traysek put a hand to his chin, 'And he seems to be the only orc here, much different from the green or brown ones we've seen, wonder what his story is...'

Recorder sweated under his cautious stare, 'I get that he's a guardian, but does he have stare so intensely...it's almost hard to keep eye contact on him,'

The nord slowly nodded at the large orc, whistling, 'Big guy...almost the size of Magnus, even stands nearly the same as him...but those red markings are new, is he blooded in...?'

The orc sighed before whispering something to the Dark Elf, who nodded. She then turned to Dydene and said, "Please, come in a rest a little before taking the road again."

"We do have to take our breakfast." the lead Centaur turned to the others and said, "We'll rest for an hour, so take your breakfast at the inn."

Hearing that, Traysek dismounted his ride, stretching his back, "Hear that? we get an hour off," turning to the other two, who got off of theirs.

"I get to eat something other than dried meat and water? about time," The Nord sighed, grabbing his axe and shield.

Recorder grinned, "Finally, my legs were starting to get numb up there, I will never question walking again,"

The sword wielder looked at her before sighing and tending to his mount.

Once they tied their rentals to the cargo, the trio headed in with the rest of the caravan, giving the village a good overall look... watching both human and elven citizen carry on their days without conflict, given the history, the only thing that stood out, was the large statue of the Earthmother, landmarking the village center.

The Redguard gave an approving nod, 'Hmm... the same ambiance as Erdora, just much bigger...' Glancing around, noting the elvish buildings, old but refurbished, 'No signs of wear and tear either, some even look old...'

"I like it here, it doesn't seem to have all that hostile energy, managing to keep up with it too," Erik said, hand to his chin, "Doesn't seem like the shields' influence made here, or at least not yet..."

Recorder sighed, smiling as she spotted a few markets, "We could see what they got, you did give us enough money too,"

"We'll have the time for that, first thing's first," Traysek began, as he heard her stomach rumble, "We should get hit that tavern up, who knows? might even pick up some rumors while we're at it,"

Erik nodded, "Yeah, and maybe we can find out what "former friends" have been up to, kinda unsettling we haven't seen them up about yet,"

"Oh god...please don't use the word "Friend" and the dogs in the same sentence ever again... I'm still thinking about that bullshit back there and I'm really trying not to..." Recorder groaned.

Traysek sighed, "You and me Both Recorder, you and me both..." shaking the thought out of his head, "Anyway, we'll have time for those pricks later as well, for now, let's get some food,"

"I heard you there, sir," The nord Concurred.

As they wondered, they spotted a sign with ale spilling out of mug, with most of the Caravan going in, following them in soon after...

Inside, they found the Orc arm-wrestling some men, winning easily.

"They're still trying to beat him?" a young woman in a waitress outfit asked as she looked at him.

"Men and their 'I want to win' pride." A Dark Elf waitress stated as she rolled her eyes.

"Well, I just hope that they would stop trying to do the impossible." the human waitress said before adding, "Anyone with the Berzerker Blood Curse can go beyond the mortal limits."

The orc sat for a minute before that the chieftain joined him.

Traysek and the others passed the scene, looking at how many gathered around for the chance to go against him. Those that had went against him and lost were holding their arms while others still awaited their chance.

"Seems like a popular sport here," Erik commented, "at least against him,"

Record smirked, "What... you plan on going up next? he's going to break your arm, Erik,"

"You don't know that! and besides, we Nords are made of strong stuff,"

Traysek chuckled at that, "You can't convince him out of the challenge Recorder, hell, even I'll give it a shot before we leave,"

They found an open table in the side corner, and taking a seat there...it wasn't long before a waitress approached them.

"What do you want?" she asked before eying Traysek suspiciously.

The Redguard rose a brow at that, before slowly nodding, "Well that depends, what's today's special?" he asked, while the other two gave her a cautious look.

"Smoked elk meat and a portion of mashed potatoes," she replied.

"Okay, that'll do, I'll take the smoked elk along with a bowl of mashed potatoes, and some mead with it" The Redguard said, smiling.

"I'll have some steak and eggs, along with anything you've got to drink," Erik ordered.

Recorder nodded, "I'll have some pancakes and sausage with egg, along with Orange juice,"

She nodded before leaving for the kitchen.

Recorder blinked at her departure, "Sheesh, that woman was eyeballing us pretty hard, wonder why?"

"Not really at us thought, more at you sir," Erik added in, raising an eyebrow.

Traysek sighed, shaking his head, "There could be a number of reasons there, I think she believes we're with the Dogs, and scars don't help with that regard,"

"How many last night?" the chieftain asked with a serious tone.

"Twenty-five." the Orc answered, "Mercenaries and knights."

"As for the monsters?"

"None." the orc said before adding, "I bet that Xunaakt is trying to preserve most of the monsters for their big plan. Even if the Bloodseeker clan joined them, it doesn't mean that they'll win."

the chieftain nodded, "True, your clan won't be that helpful to them."

"Unless they have what's necessary for blood magic..." the Orc retorted.

The chieftain only shivered as a waitress brought them food.

Unfortunately, Traysek overheard them as they waited for their meal to arrive, narrowing his eyes at a certain name...

'Xunaakt...I remember that orc...didn't think he survived back in the fortress...going to have to deal with him too at some point...I'm hoping he's not back in the secret city...' he pondered, as the waitress came back with a large tray holding their food.

She put the food and drinks on their table before going to another.

Recorder gave her a narrowed-eyed glare when the waitress cut an eye back on them, "Boss, I know we're supposed to be polite here, but if she keeps eyeballing us, I'm going to talk to her...alone for five minutes..."

"Nevermind that, just eat," Traysek sighed, grabbing his spoon "The sooner we finish, the less of those stares we'll get," starting on his food.

Erik furrowed his brow, "Honestly, that would probably make more trouble, than solve it..." narrowing his eyes, "Once someone makes that claim on you, it's hard to get it off..." biting into his steak.

"Yeah, I know but..." Recorder said in a low tone, "Alright, I'll play it off...or at least try to...hard to work up an appetite with that kind of energy around..."

As they began to enjoy their food, the doors to the Inn kicked open with three mercs standing there, the largest guy, seemingly the leader of the three stepped forward, while all the patrons had their eyes on them...

"Look for the exiled one." the largest said, "I'll confirm if it's true."

The two nodded and began to look for the Orc.

The trio had trained glares on them, Traysek rubbing his chin, 'Black dogs here...? Well that explains why the waitress was looking at us hard, damn...and we just screwed these guys over, hope they don't recognize us...'

"That looks like trouble, should we intervene...?" Erik whispered, getting a headshake from the Redguard.

"Not yet, let's see what they do first, then we get involved..." he smirked, taking another sip of his drink.

Recorder eyed two of them until she met the large one eye to eye turning away quickly, "Shit...! I think he saw me...!"

"Why would you look him in the eyes, what is wrong with you?" The Redguard berated, cutting an eye to see if he was heading over to them, and true enough, he happened to be doing just that, "Here he comes, just keep you cool...it'll play out right,"

"Back off." the Dark Elf stood between him and Recorder, his hand on his weapon, and his tone threatening.

"What does a pathetic little boy like you believe he can do?" the Dog asked with a smirk, "Trying to impress her? Because I don't think that she'd be interested in a pack of bones like you."

Recorder chuckled, standing up, "Really now? Because seeing you and...smelling you, made me go dryer than the Alik'r desert ..." getting some snickers from the patrons, before standing up herself, "Seriously, the nearest kennel is 10 miles away, go find a humping post and relieve yourself there,"

At this point, both Traysek and Erik were snickering with the crowd, which added to the dog's embarrassment.

"That's it! You're both dead!" he drew his sword and was about to swing... until it fell to pieces.

"Slow..." the Dark Elf muttered.

"Boys! Let's show these two who they're dealing with!" he then drew another sword, "I never leave with one weapon."

Traysek sighed, standing up, as Erik did, cracking his neck, "Well, I think you need to add two more to that list, Kuro-bitch," grabbing his... tankard as a weapon, "How's your boss by the way? is he still crying over the burn I gave him?" with a wide grin.

Their eyes were wide as the merc growled before smirking, "That means that if I swipe the floor with your face, I'll prove that I can become the leader of the Black Dogs."

The two joined him and circled the four.

At a table, the archer looked like he was about to lift his bow, ready to help them but stopped when the swordsman looked at him.

"Let's get them!" and they charged at them.

Wasting no time at all, The Redguard ducked a hard swing coming from the big guy, throwing a drink into the merc's face, blinding him, before repeatedly whacking him in the face with the mug, drawing blood as he did; grabbing his hair and slamming his head down on the table, finishing it by driving an elbow into the back of his neck which gave off a sickening crack, the big guy falling over...

Now whether he was unconscious or dead, remained to be seen, but the other two mercs were sweating when they saw the biggest go down...Erik used this chance to tackle one of them, feeding him punches as the poor bastard tried to defend against it.

Recorder on the other hand had drawn a dagger, evading a smash from a dog's hammer, giving a slash to the back of his leg, and to the side of his torso causing him to stumble forward, "Once again, you guys really need to work on your speed..." jumping away from an enraged smash that destroyed another table.

He was about to charge her again, only to see the Dark Elf in front of him.

"Slow..." he muttered as flames of hatred could be seen in his eye as a flash happened, and the head rolled down.

The third one ended up unconscious, with a swollen eye and busted lips...

Erik huffed, getting off of him, "By the gods, are these guys everywhere now?"

"Are you really surprised by that, Erik? they're like a plague, of course, they're everywhere" Traysek sighed, sitting the bloodied mug down.

Record, who was near another table, saw the decapitated head, glancing at the swordsman who sheathed his blade, "I had that, really, but thanks for stepping in," giving him a friendly smile.

The Dark Elf only nodded before heading back to his table where the other Dark Elves began to tease him.

After the trio took their seat, they went back to eating as if nothing happened...Traysek went for the bloodied mug only to find it empty, raising it up...

"Can I get another round over here? had to waste it on this creep of the week," The Redguard said, glancing down at the knocked-out man near him.

Instead of giving him another filling, the waitress gave him a new mug and a barrel of mead while smiling, "A gift in the name of the village."

The Redguard rose an eyebrow, "A bit more than a refill, thank you," giving a pleasant smile back, pouring himself another from it, "How long has this problem been happening?"

"Since forever." the waitress replied, "Princess Alicia came and took all our capable men, leaving us with children and old men that can't defend the village. Of course, we suffered a lot due to the lack of protection against ogres and imps, and Princess Alicia refused to send guards because 'The war is important and we must fight hard'. But the commander does send help from time to time. He even contacted some sort of friend that sent Dark Elves to aid us. Nowadays, they don't try to cause trouble... unlike how they used to be when they took my mother and my older sister..."

The trio blinked at that, furrowing their eyebrows, "I'm...so sorry for your loss..." Recorder said, in a solemn tone, now feeling bad about wanting to report her earlier.

"I can see why you were looking at us so hard earlier," Traysek said, "That said, let me put those worries to rest, we're not TYPICALLY mercenaries, we WILL take those contracts though if it's that good, but we're more-so adventurers, than a contract-runner,"

Erik nodded, "That and these guys give mercenaries a really bad name, they're more akin to bandits than actual mercs,"

"I see, Anyways, I have customers to serve" the waitress left for another table.

Traysek held up his mug at her departure, "Well, that went well, and we've got a keepsake from here," finishing the rest of his bowl.

"I'll say, let me get some of that mead," The nord said, pouring himself a cup.

Recorder chuckled, "Try not to drink it all before we get it back, guys," looking at the door, "Just hope that's the last of dogs we'll see for awhile, I like fighting them, but not too many at once,"

Right as they got comfortable, once again and unironically, the door burst open with more dogs standing there, the lead of THAT group, having a hardened scowl.

"I swear on the goddess, how long does it take to find one exiled-" The lead dog started with, until he noticed his men on the ground, two dead and one of them with a broken face, "What the hell happened in here?! who did this?!"

The trio this time, stood up, glaring at the thugs, the Redguard sighing...

"More of you shitty mutts? seriously, how desperate is Volt...?" Traysek asked, a bit loudly.

The scarred merc had widened eyes upon seeing the standing trio, Recognizing them immediately...

"You...You're those fucking traitors from the fortress...!" he growled, "Oh today's a good day, not only do I get to take the price on YOUR head, but I get to take another prize back with me," leering at Recorder.

Recorder gave him disgusted look, "Gross...!"

"Money's only good if you can spend it," Erik said in a dangerous tone.

The lead thug smirked, "Kill the men, but bring the woman to me..." as the thugs drew out their weapons, heading over to them.

"I've had enough of you invading humans!" the Orc walked forward with an angered face, "I'm not going to let you harm these people any longer." the red markings on his body began to glow.

Some of the thugs started to cower, as the lead thug smirked, "And there he is, our favorite exiled orc," widening his sick grin, "You're looking well for an exile, Bruk'daz, Xunaakt wants what's due, now if you play nice and give her to us, we'll even convince him to let you back into that clan of yours...a "show of fealty" how about it? you can even start by killing those two traitors, we'll split the lady they've got with them,"

A few of his men gave dark chuckles at that, while Traysek and Erik narrowed their glares at them.

"The Bloodseekers are no longer my clan." Bruk'daz narrowed his eyes, "I found a better clan that accepted me even if I have a cursed blood that makes me go berserk. And I don't plan to betray them." he then began to growl before adding, "And that weak chieftain can go eat his foot if he thinks that I'm going to let him, or any of you, put a hand on my daughter."

The head thug clicked his teeth, "That's a shame, really, and I had hoped we could work something out, oh well," he grinned devilishly, "Boys~ take him out, we can always find the girl later,"

The group of black dogs surrounded the orc with weapons, grinning as they did.

Both Recorder and Erik were about to draw weapons until...

"Wait on that you two, I think we're in for a show this time~" sitting back down, getting comfortable.

A smaller thug lounged at him first with a dagger going for his heart with a battle cry...

The Orc grabbed him by the neck before lifting him and narrowing his eyes at him. Another one tried to charge him with short swords, only to slash his comrade. Before he could understand, a spear pierced the merc lifted and got the second's heart.

"And you dare talk like you're strong," Bruk'daz growled before stabbing a Black Dog that was charging him from behind, only to be pierced in the skull. One of the ones left tried to throw a chair at him, only to see him catch it.

But he still smirked when he saw that his friend was ready to stab him in the back with a dagger.

"I grow tired of these cowardly tactics of yours..." the Orc growled before slamming the thug in the head using the chair with enough power that his head exploded.

The one that tried to run, only to be pierced by the spear thrown through the back of his head.

"If you're planning to force me to submit with this, you're wrong."

Traysek whistled and applauded along with the patrons, "Damn, he's pretty good, they couldn't even get the jump on him,"

"I'll say, even made one of their heads explode with a chair, and I thought what you did with the mug was impressive," Erik nodded in approval.

Recorder grinned, "Made short work of these morons, thought I'd have to get involved,"

"Yeah, but let's see what the last dog here does, and I believe he soiled his armor," The Redguard smirked, watching him back away to the door.

The head thug growled, "Damn you...! This isn't over! Your brothers will learn of this betrayal, Orc!" cutting his eye at the trio, "And you too, traitors!" before beelining for the door.

"Not even going to fight me like a warrior..." the Orc rushed at a dead body and pulled his spear before throwing it at the running Dog.

The thug barely ducked from the spear, grazing him in the neck as he burst out of the door...scrambling away from the inn.

Traysek sighed but smirked, "Aww well, he got away, was hoping to see him go up against him, coward,"

"Oh he'll be back, idiots like that always come back," Record said, shaking her head.

Erik narrowed his eyes at the door, "If he's smart he wouldn't but then again, they're too stupid and horny to give up, never seen someone so determined for it, gods they're gross"

Bruk'daz took a deep breath as the red markings stopped glowing. He then headed back to his place.

The patron was in full applause, even with the mess left there, they still applauded the large orc.

"Someone's popular around here," Recorder commented, getting nods from the other two.

"Indeed, almost want to meet him in battle myself," Traysek smirked, "And that spear throw of his is nothing to laugh at either, he almost got that fleeing dog, and managed to graze him too,"

The nord whistled at the number of dead men laying there, "Yeah no kidding, it would explain why he's unbeatable at arm wrestling," taking a gulp from his tankard.

A Dark Elf waitress gave him a plate with a cooked wild boar on it and the Orc began to eat it as no one dared to approach him.

The trio went back to their drinks and the rest of their food, if there was any left, knowing that they wouldn't get any more visits from their former comrades... eventually after thirty minutes, passed, Dydene came in herself, getting the caravan's attention.

"Everyone! We depart in 5 minutes!" she called before heading away.

Traysek sat the mug down, standing up, "And I believe that's our cue, make sure to bring the mead barrel too,"

Erik stood and grabbed the barrel lifting it up, "Gladly, they should've let us keep the bloody mug though, would've made for a killer souvenir,"

"I'm sure they've got another use for it, like maybe a warning sign to the rest of them," Record said, before going into thought, "So what are we going to do for the last five minutes anyway? wait by the mounts or...?"

The Redguard rubbed his chin, "Well since we didn't get to check the vendors for anything last time, we could see what's in stock, but other than that, we won't have the time...first let me see how much this is going to cost," heading towards the cashier, "Go ahead and wait by the door,"

As Recorder and Erik went towards the door, Traysek was at the cashier...

"How much do we owe you?" he asked, going for his coin purse.

"Are you with the caravan?" she asked.

"Yeah, we're part of the escort," He replied.

"Then there's no need to pay." she replied, "All the expenses were covered beforehand."

Traysek rose an eyebrow, "Really now? Well then, "pulling out the small sack and leaving it on the table, "Enjoyed the meal today, consider it a courtesy," leaving the counter to join the other two.

"So how much was it?" Recorder asked.

"We actually didn't have to pay anything, the caravan had it covered, but I still left something, the food wasn't bad," The Redguard shrugged.

"Seriously? How much did you leave?" Erik asked as they stepped out.

With wide eyes after opening the bag she called, "W-Wait a second!" but it was too late, "I told them that there was no need to pay..." she sighed before putting the bag away.

Meanwhile...At Feoh...

Gathered in a courtyard, Niall's men were standing around a large pile of wood along with a wrapped-up body in the center of it...The commander approached the log pile with a torch.

"Yesterday, we lost a member of our big family! A good lad who was selfless, courageous, and a damn good fighter!" he looed at them before adding, "Having no distinction between man or elf or monster, he helps anyone and anything!"

While the commander continued his speech, a shadow approached Rey.

"You went and did it, huh?" a voice he didn't want to hear, "Seems like the coward let someone to his death."

Rey growled, putting a hand on his dagger, "Now's not the time, take it elsewhere, jester...!"

"Or what, coward? You're going to hide behind someone? Cry until you're noticed by Mommy?" she giggled before adding "And even if you try to attack me, you know that your skills aren't good enough to keep up with me. After all, that's all you do; put others in a situation where they lose something while you don't pay anything."

"Lass! It's time!" Niall called.

"Now, if you excuse me, I have to do something very important, more important than wasting more of my time with a coward." she then turned into a shadow and appeared next to Niall before taking her lute.

Oh the hero comes
I can hear the drums
And our horses run to the kingdom come
Through the pale moonlight
Our hearts ignite to the call

Oh, claim your prize
To the crown of stars
In the name of love
Be the sacrifice
You and I will stand and fight
Our backs to the wall

There is no escape
Let the fever rise
As our horses rage
And our goal's in sight
Maybe I'm the one
I'm the one who will fall

Oh, lay me down
On a bed of stone
I will wait for you
As I rest my soul
I will watch you ride
When you respond to the call

Shut your eyes
Shut your eyes
Don't be scared to shut your eyes
Watch those lights
From the stars
In your head, hypnotized

Join our fight for what's right
Let your heart be your guide

"Thank you..." Niall said as some soldiers applauded her.

The commander looked at the crowd and added, "Does someone, anyone, has something to add?"

Rey with his eyes hidden behind his hair, rose a hand, "I...have something to say," walking up as the crowd cleared for him to do so, "If that's alright with you, commander..."

"What is it, lad?" the commander looked at him with serious eyes.

Rey simply turned to crowd, and cleared his throat, "This...good man lies today, because of a stupid mistake I made, one that could've been avoided...one that should've been avoided...I know you have your conniptions about me, I can't give back that life, but...I can do what can to honor it, not only as a knight but as your brother-in-arms...with or without yours and-" cutting a hateful eye at Jenelica, "-Other's scorn..." turning his attention back, "Today, we lay our comrade to rest, may his soul find the goddess's light and eternal peace," he saluted with conviction, "To Sir Lasico!"

"Well, lad, you did your best." Niall said as he knew that beneath their helms, they were glaring at the young knight, "Even that old bird said that no road isn't cleared of blood."

Reynold knew from they were standing it was glare behind those helmets, however, he was done caring now...he had already made this blunder and there was no going back, not after this...his eyes were shadowed as he turned to Niall, "Thank you Commander, and for the future, I will not make any more mistakes like this..." before turning and walking towards the barracks.

However, as he departed, he could feel a burning feeling rise in his chest, his mind on certain memory...

'putting duty above the desire to do what's right will always make you the loser at the end of it...if you truly desire to do the right thing, you should just do it, and if you fail, try it again. It should NOT be a "duty" to be a good person or to do the right thing, it should come naturally. Gods or no gods...I do what's right, because I CAN, not because I have an obligation or a duty to, but because I have the POWER to...' Traysek's voice hit him.

'Maybe, someday, you'll tire of being their armored punching bag...until then, I'm glad we're on the same side...'

His eyes were now enflamed, burning with both hatred and determination as he passed the glaring knights, uncaring of what they felt about him at that moment, the words of Jenelica, no one could hate him any more than he himself...

Some steps could be heard as someone approached him.

"Kid... we need to talk. Now." it was a woman with a clear hard voice, "Someone would like to meet you."

Reynold cut his eye in the direction of the woman, before simply nodding, following her.

With Team 2...

Inigo's team was suited up in their full gear...upon Yuriana's way to retrieve it, Inigo and Lucien had found the wife, hiding within the home safe, now standing outside with her husband, Pao.

The imperial held the locator, watching the beacon move to a location.

"Looks like our friend is on the move again, good call on not going early Inigo,"

The khajiit nodded, "I figured that would've been too soon, we would've run into a trap most likely, but if he's on the move, then that means he doesn't suspect a thing, which works well for us,"

Yuri grinned, "So this mission will be even easier, got it," turning to the old couple, "Thank you both for your hospitality, we'll get your daughter back too," looking around, "My only question now, is that do you have mount we can borrow? if not, I understand,"

"There's the Cloud Serpent of Ming, but..." the old woman began.

"Too unruly and no one but Ming can get on it." the old man Pao finished.

Inigo smirked, "Say no more, I can speak to animals, this won't take long,"

"Believe it or not, what he's saying is true," Lucien groaned, "He once convinced a mammoth to do tricks, I'm sure he can manage,"

Yuriana rolled her eyes, "Don't complain when it bites you in the ass Inigo," turning to the couple, "But he's not too wrong there, do you know what barn it's in?"

"It isn't a pet that can be kept there." the old Pao said before taking a whistle, "With this, I can call it."

He blew it and waited for some seconds.

In the next moment, a large serpent-like creature leap towards them, landing when it got close enough.

"Whoa...he's pretty," Yuri complemented, turning to Inigo, "Hope your charm can work Inigo,"

The khajiit nodded, "It will just watch..." walking up to it, speaking to it in a language of whispers, which the creature leaned his head to.

While this was happening, Lucien was astonished by the mount, "he's very exotic, how did she manage to keep him calm?"

"They have a deep connection." the old man said, "Ever since it hatched from the egg, he fell in our farm... and Ming found him when she was little."

"They were inseparable." the old woman said, "They grew together."

The beast gave Inigo a nod, as the khajiit patted his neck gently, "You have my word..." turning to the others, "So guys, here's the deal, he can take us to her, but she's HAS be the one riding him back, those are his terms,"

"That won't be a problem, him getting her out of there, might be for the best," Lucien agreed.

"Okay, not like I minded the walk back, I'll go ahead and-"

"And I have to be one in the driver's seat unfortunately since you know, I can understand him," Inigo slightly smirked, putting hard frowns on the other two.

"We get it, you can stop showing off now..." Lucien deadpanned, rolling his eyes.

The khajiit chuckled, climbing on the cloud serpent, followed by Yuri and then the imperial last...Inigo then pulled out a small piece of clothing, putting it in front of the beast, which sniffed it and gave a roar.

It flew so fast that they barely had time to be prepared to that speed, causing the passengers to scream in departure.

Gnoll campbase...

The large serpent landed on the outside of a large campsite, with two gnoll guards standing there, glaring at their arrival.

Once they got off of him, the Imperial hit the ground gasping for air... "By the gods, I missed the ground so much..." hugging himself from the trauma.

Inigo chuckled, "Oh come on Lucien, it wasn't that fast,"

"Bleeeeurrrgh!" The Redhead vomited, glaring at him, "Speak for yourself...! I'm barfing up dinner as we speak," going back to do just that.

After they recovered from the shock of that speed, the trio soon stood in front of the gates, Inigo walking up to the guards...

"Hello there," He greeted, reaching in his pocket, and coming out with a rock, "We received your invitation, we're here for the girl,"

Not to soon after, a near-infinite amount of Gnolls surrounded them.

"So... these are the slaughterers of my kin..." All the Gnolls made way as they began to show signs of terror, "You're here to finish the job, Murderers?"

Inigo's ears twitched, turning to the source of the sound, finding a slender but larger human-like gnoll walking towards them holding a three pronged spear, narrowing his eyes, "Not unless you're going to make us...where's the girl?"

Yuriana narrowed her eyes on the newcomer as well, noting how scared the others are of her, "Be careful guys, I can feel the aura off of this one and it's nothing to sniff at,"

"By the gods, this many...I don't know about this one chaps," Lucien sweated.

"Do you honestly think that you can escape alive?" she looked bored before adding, "Well, it's not a problem to me; Either that you go away, or not. After all, You just started a war by killing my kin, and, to top it with some nice entrails, you struck first. Your pet was the first to harm us, therefore, this is justified."

Yuriana huffed, folding her arms "Justified? you? you're the ones slaughtering their animals in horrid ways, how can you justify that?!"

"And kidnapping to top it off, seriously, you have to involve people not in this?" Lucien questioned with a frown.

Inigo growled, "Like I told the other one, you can't justify your recent actions, there were other ways you could've gone about it, now it's just noise," narrowing his eyes dangerously, "Once again, I asked...where. is. the girl...?" retracting his claws.

"You killed my kin in their name... we didn't harm a fur from them." she then added, "You killed so many of my kin... and you talk like you're self-righteous. Humans will always be scumbags that kill for fun. Moreover, I would suggest that you change your tone. The last thing that you want, is to anger me."

Inigo scoffed, "Like you're actually scaring me...I've dealt with a lot bigger than you, and spare me the anti-human prejudice especially when YOU'RE THE ONES STARTING IT!... You want me to take a knee," clenching his fist, taking a stance "Come and make me..." with a deep growl at the end.

Yuriana drew her hammer, "And you've got more than him to make,"

The imperial sighed, stepping forward, "Now hold on a minute here, look, no one wants a war, we already have one we're prepping up for with the traitorous dogs...surely if you haven't attacked yet and you could've, then perhaps we can come to some sort of negotiation, without killing each other..." cutting a hard eye at the other two, "Despite how you feel? would you be willing to hear us out?"

The Packleader raised an eyebrow and replied, "Talking with killers that would want nothing but to kill us for their fun?" she eyed both Yuri and Inigo before adding, "And even if you do manage to 'Slay' me, you'll have over hundreds of packs loose that will attack everything and slaughter everything... like how you did with my kin..."

Lucien somberly nodded, "I get that, and I'm so sorry it came down to that...but we do not do it for pleasure or for fun, it's was for survival...much as you understand, your highness..." turning to the other two, "Lower your weapons, guys, you're going to blow this...!"

Inigo and Yuriana looked unsure, before they sheathed their weapons, putting their hands up...

"Now, as I was saying...I believe we've got off on the wrong foot here, and to make up for that, I'm willing to discuss terms with you in private...I know the history the other two can wait out here with your men for good faith if needed..." The imperial went with, "I don't think you're evil, but I don't your going about it right either...and I'm willing to discuss that with you," taking off his sword belt, lying it on the ground, "And without any weapons...what say you?"

She nodded to one of the Gnolls who brought Ming and let her go.

"Before that, how many Gnolls have you killed? How many cubs are left without someone to feed them? Then compare it to how many Landstealers we harmed." she said with a stern look, "So, how do you plan on Making it up for all the lives that you've taken? Unless you don't care..."

Lucien actually thought on that, wondering how they would, "I DO care, but I know I can't give any of that back...I do, however, have a solution that not only helps the panderans, but you and your people as well and we can prevent mistakes like This from ever happening again...all I need, is a moment of your time, and you won't regret it..." with conviction.

The ground shook when she planted her spear down, "You have an hour... and I'm very generous about it."

The imperial gave a polite bow, "Thank you, and hour is more than generous...whenever you're ready, lead the way,"

Yuriana had a worried expression, "Are you sure this is a good idea...? What if you end up like those animals?"

Inigo pondered on this, "It's better him than me, come back alive, you hear me?"

"I will, but you have to trust me here, or none of this would've mattered..."

The Packleader turned and began to head toward a big tent.

Lucien followed behind shortly, a few Gnolls opening the way for him as he entered the tent...

With him gone, Yuriana and Inigo were only left with their hands up...

"Um...so who wants to play cards...?" With a nervous smile.

...

When the imperial stepped in, he was treated to a couple of women in chains surrounding the queen as he sat formally across from her, bowing in that position, "Thank you for the opportunity...and since I'm on short time, it's time to clear the air on somethings..." clearing his throat, "Firstly, my name is Lucien Flavius, a fair negotiator of the Red dragon crew...and like I told razzfang, I won't back down...but, I'm not here to prove a tough point to you or to outdo you... far from it..." getting narrowed eyes zone on him, "I know that a peace treaty was brokered between your tribe and the panderans living there by the former pack leaders...as far as they're concerned, they still think that treaty is still active today, which is why they didn't suspect you or your people...could you help me understand why that's changed?"

"You talk as we drew blood first..." she leaned forward before adding, "All we did was an intimidation tactic since our request to talk was ignored."

Lucien rubbed his chin at that, "I see, so all of this was to get their leader's attention...not to destroy their farming or chase them off the land...interesting..." nodding to that, ; And judging from how quickly she forgot that she had put a contract out there, it's not a surprise...' Looking back up at her, "Well, if attention was what you were looking for, you definitely got it, just not one you were expecting...and tell you the truth, Lin also forgot that she had placed that contract out there, getting the feeling you've been dealing with an airhead..." sighing after, "In short, the alliance has nothing to do with them...in fact, they came to these lands most likely to get away from them and I can't say I blame them...nor do I blame you now for the actions you took...perhaps something can be done here after all...but before we get there, you mentioned "land stealing" what exactly do you mean by that?"

"We, Gnolls, have a practice that has us go to an ancestral grave to communicate with our ancestors... But these Landstealers took them from us to build this 'Out of the post' of theirs." she replied, "And now they called for mercenaries to kill members of my kin... How did you think that war won't break?"

Lucien once again nodded to that, "That's the thing...what we did, them ignoring on top of it, that would indeed lead to war...but and just follow me here, what if they truly didn't know...? Think about it, if you're running away from a xenophobic army like that or the black dogs...the last thing anyone would think is whether they were on someone else's turf or not, survival is always going to kick in before all else...which I think led to the first war between these tribes and to the old treaty they made prior to it...not excusing it, or us for that matter...but that possibility is there..."

The Packleader took a deep breath before saying, "I think that we need to clear some misunderstandings; the treaty was with me. Since I united the Packs, and because they had no leadership, the Gnolls were easily defeated in every skirmish. But after that, I took the position of Packleader of every Pack, the war changed and we were winning. Now, why do you think that I shouldn't take my army and slaughter every Landstealer?"

Lucien this time took a deep breath, "Because that would do way more harm than it would do good, despite your rage, I don't believe you've exhausted all of your options with them...I know how much you care about your tribe, as much as a mother cares for her children, and that I can relate to...I have a boss just like you that cares for us just as much...it is because of him, that we're having this negotiation...which is why, I have a proposition...Come back to the hunter's outpost with me, bring your strongest fighters with you as well...if a letter did nothing and the intimidation tactic did nothing, the only thing left to do is to meet face-to-face with the outpost leader...She will not be able to ignore you then..." his eyes shadowing over, "But, if you're not satisfied with the results if you truly believe this is a trap...then and ONLY then...I will offer you my life to repay those you've lost...those are my terms, what say you?"

"You took the lives of many Gnolls, and you believe that only one will make it up for it?" she narrowed her eyes before saying, "I'll go, but if it would prove to be a waste of my time, I'll slaughter anything there and bring your heads to plant them in front of my tent as a warning on what happens to those who lie to me." the tone of her voice was more like a promise than a normal threat.

Lucien nodded, "I believe that's the fairest we'll get today," standing up and giving a bow, "Before we move this along, a couple more things you should know...Razzfang is alive and has a tracker I placed in him, it won't trigger a disease or anything, but if he wants it out, I can do that easily...The other thing is that if this goes well, your protection with the dark Army will be assured,"

"However, there's one more thing that you and you're companions will have to do, to earn my forgiveness..." her tone was far from friendly.

The imperial sighed, 'I figured this wouldn't be easy, but now I'm nervous about what this is...' Clearing his throat, "Sure, name your terms..."

"Let's just say that you will have to pay the blood price with your pet getting it double." she narrowed her eyes.

Lucien frowned, "Inigo's NOT a pet, he's our friend...we don't own his entire race," taking a calming breath, "But regardless, he was the one who shot first, given how warranted it was, fair enough..."

"Be warned... stabbing me in the back is never a good idea," she stated before exiting the tent.

outside...

Once Lucien and the Gnoll queen got back outside, they found Yuri and Inigo ignoring the glares. The imperial sighed and walked over to them, causing them to beam up.

"Ah, Lucien, you've come back my friend, and in one piece," He grinned, "How'd it go?"

"Well," The imperial began, glancing back, "She's agreed to come with us back to the outpost, apparently the huntmaster has been ignoring her, hence why they were killing the animals like that...that's the good news..."

"Getting the feeling I'm not going to like the bad news, aren't we?"

Lucien somberly nodded, "Yeah...we have to pay a blood price and Inigo you're getting double what we're getting..."

The khajiit rolled his eyes, "Why am I not surprised...?" cutting an unamused cold look at her, "Whatever, Let's just get this over with, tired of being growled at, and as long as I'm not being tied to a sacrificial post, I'll manage..."

"Not to mention we do have our healing potions on us, so it's whatever from me...I heal quickly anyway, so it's fair I go first," Yuriana said, narrowing her eyes, "After that your plan better actually work Lucien, taking a hit for you... literally,"

"I think she's picking the order herself, but your right, let's get this over with..." He sighed, as turned and gave a nod to the Gnoll queen.

One of the Gnolls gave her a shining rock, which she destroyed effortlessly, "You. The walking shit fur. You're first."

Inigo narrowed his eyes at her, drinking something before handing it back to Yuriana, "Thanks Yuri, should help with that mutt hitting me..." walking up to the queen, holding his chest out, "Give me your best shot!"

Out of respect, Lucien saluted him, 'You crazy bastard...this...this is why I love you man..." tears coming down.

Yuriana sighed, shaking her head, "We're definitely telling the boss aren't we?"

"Oh definitely, most definitely..." Lucien nodded.

She railed back before unleashing a powerful uppercut, sending him flying "Get up, there's still the second one." her tone was deadly cold.

Inigo spat and stood right up, sticking his chest back out, eyes unchanging, "Again!"

Yuriana and Lucien had worried looks, as she winded up the second blow...

But this time, she gave the punch deep into his guts, which caused some Gnolls to wince at how deep her fist went in.

"Talking bag of bones. You're next." she looked Lucian dead in the eyes.

Yuriana rushed over to him, pushing past the growling Gnolls, glaring at the queen, "Godsdammit, move!" healing him up, "Inigo...Inigo! speak to me!"

"I'm...here... I'm still alive..." he coughed, "My guts feel like they've been ruptured though...how...did...I...do...?"

She nodded with a saddened look, "You were great...you did well...Inigo, even in the face of that...you stood tall...the boss would be proud, more than..."

Lucien watched him get patched up, eyes shadowed over, before nodding and heading there next...popping his neck.

Instead, she simply punched him with enough force to throw him to the ground but left quite a mark on his cheek.

The imperial was down for a moment until he stood back up and walked away...

Yuriana watched him come back while treating Inigo's injuries, "That's all she gave you...? Good, you can pick up where I left off," leaving towards the queen.

"Yuriana..."

"Don't...fucking talk to me...heal him first..." She growled, continuing her walk towards her.

Once they were one in front of the other, the two women stared at each other before that the leader gave her a hard kidney shot.

"Now, the blood price is paid." she stated before growling at a Gnoll who nodded and ran somewhere, "Ten minutes." she then left.

Yuriana glared at her glowing blue eyes, not hiding her hatred as she made it back to Inigo and Lucien, "Move over," her simple response was, kneeling over to go back to healing him, "How is he?"

"Doing a bit better, he passed out for a minute, checked to see if his pulse had gone out...it's still going,"

Her eyes shadowed over, "She didn't have to do him like this...goddammit..." turning her head to him, eyes glowing blue and full of rage, "This fucking plan of yours better be worth it...or so help me, I'll do you the same as she did him...understand...?" her voice cold, turning back to heal him.

He gulped, slowly nodding, 'Gods Yuri...I hope that anger does not turn into what I think it is...please understand that this was for the good of everyone...I know you're angry at me...but please understand there was no other way out of this...'

Some warriors of the Gnolls were riding some sort of armored rhinos as the camp was full of Gnolls that were giving raw meat and raw organs in exchange for some sort of rocks in a specific shape. It was like a primitive civilization.

Lucien watched the exchange, noting the gem-like rocks, "Looks like they have their own currency system...getting the animal organs now, by the gods, and Lin thought this was random...but this is their way of trade,"

Yuriana peeked an eye out to see what he meant, "Very old style of doing it too, interesting..." finishing the healing spell on Inigo.

The khajiit rose up, groaning, "Ugh...gods, never again...thanks Yuri,"

"Yeah yeah, your welcome," She said, shaking her head, "Next time, maybe don't stick your chest out like that, not everyone takes that well, definitely not in this situation..."

"I figured she took that another way...gods," He sighed, standing up.

Lucien took a breath of relief, "So, guess the only thing to do now is to wait around then?"

"Yeah no choice, unless you want them to go to war for us ditching them after your promises," The Redhead reminded, getting him to groan.

Loud stomps were heard and a giant armored war elephant walked to them with the Packleader on top.

"Let's go," she said to them showing no emotion.

Yuriana snorted, "Yeah yeah, oaf, we'll lead the way," not hiding the bitterness in her tone, giving both Lucien and Inigo a gentle push forward, "And you two are in front of me,"

Both of them couldn't disagree with that notion, starting ahead, however, as they did, they were coated in a strong variant of wench armor, while the caster herself radiated aura without turning around.

She narrowed her eyes as she noticed the aura, but stayed silent as the elephant began to follow them while keeping a distance of 3 meters.

With Team 1

On route to the fourth destination, Traysek felt his magic take a blow, debilitating him as he lay on his mount with sparks coming off of him.

"DB? Are you ok? you look like you paled over," Recorder asked, getting a headshake from him.

"No...I'm not...I think I just felt Inigo take a hit...the bond spell is letting me know..." He huffed out, groaning.

Erik had a worried look on his face, "Inigo...? You don't think he...?"

"I doubt that...or that spell would've faded, I'll ask later..." The Redguard breathed out, sitting up, "For now, let's focus on the next place..." sweat beading down his face.

On the other hand, Recorder was enjoying riding the mount of the Dark Elf that she had asked for earlier, which both of the men turned around to.

"Whose mount is that...?" Erik frowned, "Did someone let you borrow it?"

Traysek shook his head, "No, it's that swordsman's mount, she asked him to use it, and to my surprise, he agreed quicker than Vici's wedding," smirking.

"I just heard all of that, and that's fucked up...you were responsible for that and you know it, wow...poor taste much?" Recorder berated, or at least tried to the best of her ability without letting a chuckle out, "Dammit, okay fine it's funny, but still, shut up!"

"Wedding bells are good, but the gargoyles leave an 'impression' no one forgets..." Erik began with, "Smashing!"

Both men were cackling hard at that one, as she rolled her eyes, turning to the kletzkreig on her mount, "I'm sorry about them, they have a twisted sense of dark humor..."

"It's fine..." he replied as he knew what was coming next.

"Letting someone on your mount? Now that's a change, Dargo." the archer smirked, "But I'm pretty sure that she would want to ride with you while you carry her in your arm like a princess, right?" he looked at Traysek.

Recorder deadpanned at the archer, "Oh god, not you too..."

"I mean...you have said something about "Romantic dates at a waterfall~" so he's not half wrong there," The Redguard chuckled.

"Do you really have to put that out there?!" She shouted, blushing.

Traysek laughed as well as the other teasing men, "She's fun to tease, I can imagine you have as fun," to the archer, "Names Traysek by the way, didn't catch yours earlier,"

"The name's Endra." the archer stated before adding, "I'm the Solar Archer of the Kletzkrieg. No one of the bow users can use solar magic better than I do."

"But you aren't the best." Dargo deadpanned.

"Lina isn't also the best." Endra replied, "She may be the Finest Arrow, but she isn't the Arrow of Death."

Traysek thought on that, "' Arrow of death' huh? sounds like a deathbringer from that description, and I've heard how scary they are..."

"He's the second-" Endra began before being interrupted.

"He's the third with the second being the Dark Flames of Purgatory, the fourth being the Bloodclaws, and the fifth being the Deadly Shadow." Dargo listed.

"And there's that shy fellow who's going to become one since he fought and survived quite the battles, and developed a unique but deadly fighting style." Endra pointed, "Of course, there's another one, but talking about her might not be a good idea."

"I have yet to pass the final test..." Dargo mumbled, sounding ashamed of himself.

"Once he passes the test he would receive a gift from the Earthmother and will be way deadlier than now," Endra added.

"So not only a rank up but a blessing that's worth it...I can see why the rush to that position is high," Traysek concluded, "And only two at that, training has to be brutal to get there,"

Erik whistled, "Almost makes you wonder how far they go with it too," clearing his throat, "The name's Erik by the way,"

"Well, you know what a lot of people are saying; 'There's no deadlier enemy than yourself'. And the General prepared the... I want to say the right test, but it's so crazy that I feel happy not doing it." Endra pointed before adding, "And once he gets to become a Deathbringer, he can offer the lady whatever she wants." he grinned, teasing both Dargo and Recorder.

Record had an affronted look, "H-hey! Who said I would ask for anything? not that I wouldn't mind, but still," she defended, "And since the two stooges introduced themselves, my names Recorder, or Record for short, I don't mind either way," to the swordsman.

"Does that mean that she accepted him?" Endra smirked as he asked Traysek.

"It's actually too early to tell, to be honest, but she's smiled at him twice, it's progress," The Redguard smirked back.

Recorder deadpanned, "I hate you right now, I just wanna let you know that...screw you, eat a dingus,"

"That's not nice..." Erik snicked, trying not to laugh.

"Neither is embarrassing us! you can eat two!" She snapped back, earning their laughter.

"I didn't think that it would be like that." Endra wiped a tear, "Well, the thing is-"

He didn't have time to continue as he barely dodged an arrow from a bandit.

"Well, well... look at this." a man with strange tattoos said as he walked toward Dydene, "Gold and entertainment."

Not too soon after, they were encircled by thirty-five bandits.

"Sorry pals, but it's the end of your travels." The leader added before pulling a longsword.

"Where the hell did these guys come from?" Recorder asked, going for her blades.

Traysek narrowed his eyes at the surrounding men, "Looks like they've got us boxed in," dismounting his ride and walking up to the front of the caravan.

Erik glanced up at Endra, " Are You okay ? were you hit?"

"Takes more than that to harm me." Endra pointed before taking his bow, "But I guess that we should teach these guys a lesson... because Dargo won't give them a merciful death..."

Dargo was staring at them while having his hand on his blade while the bandits were leering at the females of the caravan, Recorder included.

"Been a while since we got a mare, and look at those forms! We are going to enjoy ourselves tonight." the leader stated before noticing Traysek, "Who the hell 're you? One of Volt's boys?"

Traysek retained his smile, "Nah, someone much more dangerous..." quickly whipping his pistol out and kneecapping the thug next to him with a loud bark of his dwarven pistol, causing him to scream out, "Whoopsie~ finger's a bit itchy today, but be all the leering around, huh?"

"FUUUUUUUUUCK!" the scream was heard from miles away, "Get that fucker!"

The bandits charged, only to get blocked by the soldiers.

"Strange weapons... such a good quality..." Dargo mumbled, "Something's wrong."

The Redguard drew his scimitar this time, popping his neck, "We don't have much gold to offer pigs, but as for entertainment..." dashing forward with blinding speed, slicing through six of them in one blow, "We've got plenty of that to go around!" he laughed.

Erik sighed, "Geez sir, gotta let your sadist out?" getting off the mount, drawing the ax and shield, "Aw, to oblivion with it, come and get some!" he taunted.

Recorder had flung a knife through one of their heads, dismounting the ride, "I was hoping a for a water bath, but I guess your blood can do~" charging at them with both her swords drawn.

To call it a battle would be a mistake since the bandits were slaughtered almost immediately... except for one that was kept alive by Dargo.

"Who're you and who're you working for?" the Dark Elf asked, getting only silence as an answer, "Those weapons can't be found around, that means that someone is backing you."

Traysek looked at him over the elf kneeling, "Mind if I try something?" kneeling down, putting harsh pressure on his bullet wound, "Alright shit-for-brains, you're going to tell us who your handler is, or else I'll match your other leg with this one and then I'll start getting creative... and you don't want that..." leaning into his face with a scary smile, "Tell us, and we might, MIGHT let you crawl out of here,"

"W-W-Wait a moment, he never said his name! All he asked us to do was to ruin that village ahead!" it was clear that the intimidation tactic was working but...

"Useless..." Dargo stated as he had a cold stare toward the bandit.

"Could be someone from Geofu..." Endra pointed, "We're not that far from the first checkpoint that faces the east."

Traysek rubbed his own chin at that one, "Geofu you say..." turning back to the downed thug, 'Anything is possible, but one only person comes to mind...' Getting flashes of Dong Zhuo, "You see? your lips are flapping, and that's good but," applying even more pressure on his wound, "But they're not the words we wanna hear...if you didn't get his name, then at least something stood out...was he big? small? average sized perhaps? did he have scars, gotta give us more if you want to live..." taking the pressure to let him speak.

"I swear on the name of the Goddess that's all I know! They are soldiers that asked us to do that!" his eyes became wide before that he added, "T-Their armors! The color was purple!"

Endra rolled his eyes as he said, "That's really helpful since half of the soldiers there have purple armor."

"Actually...he could be telling the truth, but then that narrows it down majorly..." The Redguard concluded, 'I remember his palace guards being in purple armor...so either he has something to do with it or his soldiers are making a power play, but regardless...' He nodded with a grin, "Thank you, I have no doubt you were honest there, but...most of the men here did not appreciate all that leering from earlier, so while I would love more to cut you a break, I figure the one who likes you the least should have a say in that," stepping back, giving Dargo a nod.

"Ever felt what frostbite can do to a human being...?" The Dark Elf's sword was encased in ice.

"Hate to be him now..." Endra shook his head before turning toward Recorder, "Guess that I'll go check if there's no one else around." he then smirked as he walked past her, "Don't be too wild, alright?"

She gave a slow nod, "Y-yeah, sure...but I think he's got it covered mostly," turning her attention back on the pleading bandit, 'I want to feel bad for this guy, but then I remember what he tried to do earlier...'

Erik shook his head, "You reap what you sow, at least have some dignity to die like a man..." leaving to check for more as well.

The Redguard was about to leave until he saw a shocked Dydene, shaking in fear as if something had happened before, making his way over to her..." Dydene...? Lady Dydene!" snapping her out of it.

"It's just that... I recognized the craft... and the weapons are the same as those that were used by the knights that attacked my village twenty years ago..." she took deep breaths before trotting away, "I need to think about this."

"Cut her some slack..." a Dark Blade appeared, "As one of the mares of the Khan, she had a difficult life before joining Yamakhros." he then disappeared.

The bandit began to scream as tears began to fall while Dargo was cutting him piece by piece.

Traysek glanced at the nearly iced-up bandit, "I see...that would explain it...gods be damned," going into thought afterward, 'So Dong Zhuo had something to do with the destruction of her village...much like Grave, he seems interested in ruining lives as well, and here I was, going to spare that fatass...' shaking his head at the thought, as Erik came up to him, "Join the rest of the security team and check for any more "rats" hiding around, Record and I will check the inventory,"

"You got it sir, but..." The Nord began by looking around, "What about the lead of the caravan?"

"Leave her be for now, she's working something out, we'll move when she's ready to, but until then, take this time to give the area a sweep,"

Erik gave a nod, going to do just that before Recorder approached next...

"Alright Record, time to see if they took anything," He told her, "I figured you watch the man in action, what changed?"

"Nothing, I just know that guy's barely got any limbs left and I'm sick of hearing him scream, so I can help out with checking things," She explained, as they made their way to the cargo with a minotaur already going over it.

"Did they take anything?" Traysek asked him while checking it himself.

"Hardly, but there's a thing that bothers me..." the minotaur frowned before adding, "Why to give such priceless equipment to idiots that can't fight the weakest soldier of Yamakhros?"

The Redguard went into thought, "Hmm, you noticed that too...there could be a number of reasons for it... going by experience, this could be a diversion and the real enemy is already at that village...or gods forbid, they're playing a shell game and have switched equipment with these louts,"

"If the security team hasn't picked anything up yet, then that first option is more likely...hoping not, but I can't see any other reason why'd they know to attack us..." Recorder hummed.

"No one's around, and the way is clear." Endra stated, "I'll go check if everything's fine there."

With that, the Dark Elf jumped on his mount and rushed toward the village.

They both noticed his departure, Record's eyes widening...

"Where's he going on his own?" She asked, raising an eyebrow, "Should we follow?"

"Normally, that's what would be done, but since these mounts are bound to the caravan, it's nearly impossible...that said," charging a purple sphere and throwing it, summoning a blazing horse, "I can follow him, you are to stay here with Erik and the others," getting on it, "And who knows? maybe this will be a chance for you to get to know Dargo," with a smirk.

She gave him an unamused expression, "Yeah yeah, alright, just go do your thing already, jeez..."

He gave a laugh, before yelling out a command to his horse, which neighed in compliance, taking off in the direction Endra went...

...

After going down the path, Not too soon he found the said Elf crouching and looking forward.

The Redguard pulled his horse closer, and made his way to the Endra, surprising him when he tapped him.

"Easy, it's just me..." Traysek assured, pulling out a telescope, "What's the situation here?"

"A siege on the village." Endra answered, "Fifty soldiers with one that's worrying me... I have a bad feeling concerning that guy."

Traysek looked through the telescope, finding a well-armored man amongst the purple soldiers, "I Recognize Dong Zhuo's men, but I've never seen that guy before...seems strong too, while I could go there and reduce the numbers, no doubt I'd have to deal with him too..." pulling out his radio, clicking it on "Recorder, come in!"

"Yes, boss? What's happened over there?" her voice answered.

"Tell Dargo to bring you and a few of the fighters with you, leave enough to protect the Caravan, our next village is under siege and we'll need those numbers,"

"It's been sieged...? What the hell?! okay, I'll let him know and few others,"

Traysek nodded, "See you soon then," clicking the radio off, "There's no telling how many hostages they've got there, and a direct attack could put them in jeopardy..."

"All the hostages that they have are soldiers. Thankfully, I don't see any civilians, which means that they're in that building." pointing to a house protected by a wall made of pure light, "Seems like we need to move carefully here." Endra closed his eyes before massing them, "I hate the after-effect of this spell..."

The Redguard winced, "That looked like it hurt...I have a better idea, while they take their time getting here," stands up, taking a deep breath, "ZUL..." coming out in a whisper, disappearing as he did, "I'll be back, stay there..."

Endra rested on the tree, trying to fight the pain.

Inside the village...

While under his shout, Traysek wasted no time taking a jog through since no one could see him in his state, however, he took care to make sure no one bumped into him...upon his scouting, he noticed a few empty cages, followed by the guards pillaging the markets like common bandits, some trying to get into sealed off buildings...

'By the gods this is insane...looks like his force had already sieged it from this angle...' heading towards the building with a wall of light, finding strange seals in the doors, 'To keep them in...? or is it to keep these guys out? we'll know soon enough,"

Traysek then spots the same commander from before, making his way over to him, who seemed to be addressing his men about something...Once there, he took a spot near him to listen in on their conversation...

"Any traces of the rebel hiding here?" he asked.

"Nothing." the soldier replied, "But I'm sure that he's here somewhere."

"How about the barrier? Did you find a way to breach it?" the commander asked as he eyed the building.

"Very strong." the soldier sighed while answering the commander, "Maybe the rebel is hiding there."

"Find a way to destroy that barrier, even if you have to kill everyone hiding there!" the young commander ordered before adding, "With this victory, I'm sure that Fiore will accept to become mine." his smile was more lecherous than anything else.

Traysek squinted his eyes at him, shaking his head, 'Fiore...Fiore...' until it dawned on him, 'Oh...that Fiore...by Dagon's nutsack... that's the lousiest waste of energy I have ever seen...' With his shout effect fading, he only had time for one more thing...Raising his invisible hand behind the commander's head, 'You sir...don't deserve your balls!'

SLAP!

When the commander doubled forward, Traysek materialized for a second, before teleporting back from where he shouted...

"What the?!" when he looked back he found no one, "What in the name of the goddess was that..."

...

Once he appeared back at the scouting spot, Traysek spotted a few more numbers amongst Endra, surprising them with how suddenly he came back.

"Told you I'd be back, and we have a problem..." The Redguard began with, "That wall of light is keeping these invaders out, but once they get in, they are going to kill everyone inside...all of this to impress someone," rolling his eyes.

Recorder rose an eyebrow, "I'm sorry, what now? someone is going this far for that...?"

"The Last Hope" Dargo stated after thinking for a while, "Unbreachable and extends even below the ground... but it has a heavy price to be kept."

"The life force of a Sun Priestess" Endra added.

Traysek nodded, "So lifeforce is being used to retain it, and if it runs out then that means..." coming to a scary conclusion, drawing his sword, "Well then, lets not wait until that happens, luckily for us, I noticed the side entrance is unguarded compared to the main entry, however, whoever comes from that way, will have to deal with the pillagers there,"

Record hummed at that, "Okay, going by our numbers here, most of us can take the front entrance, while a few of you sneak in from the side... if anything we should be able to draw them to us while a few of us go for the commander," drawing her swords.

"You let me deal with that simpleton of a commander, the rest shouldn't be too difficult," The Redguard smirked, "Any other questions? Or are we good to go?" handing Endra a healing potion.

"I have the feeling... that I know who's there... and if it's true, Geofu will become a sea of blood if the Sun Priestess dies." Dargo's tone was more cautious and afraid than normal.

A hand was placed on his shoulder, belonging to Recorder...

"It won't come to that, you have nothing to worry about," She assured, nodding her towards the Redguard, "Especially with that idiot in charge, victory is guaranteed,"

Traysek noticed no one asking anything further, "If no one's got anything else...Recorder, go help Dargo and the others clear the main entrance, Endra you're with me, the two of us should be enough for the right flank,"

"You can count on me." Endra smirked before looking at Recorder who still had her hand on Dargo's shoulder, "Do you need a room?"

Recorder blushed upon that realization, taking her hand off him, clearing her throat, "Sorry about that... hehe, we should probably get moving, yeah?"

"Just don't forget about us during the wedding." Endra grinned before turning to Traysek, "Let's go."

"Speaking a little too soon there!" she snapped, the blush returning.

Traysek and the archer broke off towards the Right flank, while the Recorder and Dargo went with the rest of the team to the entrance...

...

While in position Endra pulled his arrow, "What's the plan now?"

Traysek pointed out an enemy archer on the wall above the two guards, "See him up there? Take that one out while I work on these two," turning invisible with a spell, and sneaking over to them.

The two guards stood around, the one on the right sighing...

"So why did Dong Zhuo let this guy command us again...? seems like coming here was a waste of time,"

The soldier on the left shrugged, "He's of the holy elite, a Lightbringer, being under his command is an honor, not to mention how much he'll pay-" he went on with, until he felt something jut into his gut, sending him to the ground.

His comrade looked in the direction he went down and began to panic...

"Hey, are you alright!? hey- ack!" the other soldier squeaked until he grabbed from behind and put in a chokehold, unable to escape.

The Redguard held him there until he stopped moving, letting him drop, as the archer from above spotted him, aiming a shot down...

Endra smirked before unleashing a shot that was faster than light, piercing the archer in the head before continuing its way to a faraway tree while the archer fell down.

Traysek held a thumbs up to Endra, before motioning him over...once the elf caught up to the hiding spot, The redguard pointed up...

"Take the high point, and engage the snipers, I'll stick to the ground and deal with the forces there..." he said in a low tone.

"Simple enough..." Endra walked two steps before jumping on the roof of a building and shot two other archers before jumping to another roof.

Upon seeing this, Traysek re-drew his sword and moved through the sieged village, coming across a few of the pillagers, who stopped when he had neared them.

"SU, GRAH!" he shouted, ending up behind them, decapitating both men with a hard swing, shaking the blade off.

He then got into an alleyway, spotting the rest of Dong Zhuo's men rushing somewhere, hearing an explosion go off after...

'If they're already on alert, then the other team is doing their job, once most of those forces have been directed there...flushing the commander out is the next thing...' silently moving through the alleyway.

At the main entrance...

Recorder had approached the group of guards at the gate with her hood up, getting their attention...

"Excuse me? can any of you guys help a girl out, I'm lost..." She said in an innocent tone.

One of the guards grinned before putting a hand around her, "You have nothing to worry about, stick with us and we'll treat you right~"

"Oh, really?" She said, quickly stepping back from him, "Well, I have no money to pay with, how about this instead...?" a wicked smile grew on her face, dropping something from her cloak, turning out to be smoke bombs when they exploded.

They heard her mad cackling while trying to figure out what happened..."Ahahahahahaha!~ you guys are so damn gullible!"

"Slow beasts..." they heard a voice before that flashes of light happened and their heads fell down.

Once the smoke started to clear, she landed behind him with her blades out, glancing up at the incoming soldiers.

"Didn't even get a chance to draw, nice~" She began with, hearing alarm horns go off, "And looks like we've attracted them like hornets," as the rest of the caravan guard appeared when the smoke completely cleared, halting the enemy soldiers.

However, the soldiers looked up to see a particular Dark Elf floating above them.

"A Deathbringer..." one of the caravan guards muttered with fear.

"We need to hurry." Dargo's eyes showed fear as he looked at the newcomer, "The Bloodclaws is here..."

Recorder looked up only to notice him going over the gates, "Bloodclaws huh? Doesn't look scary but then again..." Quickly slicing down an oncoming enemy, "Neither do I..."

Meanwhile, within the village...

After exiting the alley, Traysek moved through the village, cutting down any of Dong Zhuo's men that he ran into, until he finally reached the town center, taking a hiding point behind one of the buildings...

He glanced up to find that Endra was keeping his part of the bargain, archers dropping one by one from his shots...

"Damn...even after his eyes were injured, their training is no joke..." before looking forward to finding the commander and two of his guards in distress, 'Didn't leave this spot after being here, good...makes this all the easier...' sheathing his sword, withdrawing his ruby daggers, taking aim and throwing one before tossing another...

The commander swiftly move and knocked the daggers, saving the two guards.

"What kind of coward would harm subjects of the Goddess Reborn?" he stated, looking in Traysek's direction.

Traysek's laugh echoed, as he slowly approached them, "Nice deflection there pal, and "Coward?" the only cowards I see are the people laying this siege..." taking off his hood, drawing his sword, "I've heard of men going the extra mile for women, but this? this is going a tad bit too far...I just have one question," pointing his scimitar at him, "Buddy, who are you trying to impress?" smirking.

"The fairest maiden of all of the territory of Geofu." the commander replied as he smiled weirdly, "The beautiful Fiore. with her silk-like skin, her piercing eyes that chase you off, her great skills that surpass mine... the perfect candidate for someone like me." he then turned to Traysek, "And what brings a brigand like you here? Unless you're allied with the rebels..."

The Redguard rose an eyebrow, "Maybe...maybe not, you'll never know..." frowning when thought about it "Hold on..."Fiore?" four-foot tall Fiore? Eh, we've met, she's alright for her height..." nodding in agreement, "But the fact that you're putting people through this for her affection, is pretty sad...if she hasn't noticed you before, what makes you think she will from this?" he laughed.

"Only an imbecile wouldn't be able to see that by showing how strong I am, she will bend to my will, and more~" he chuckled lustfully before taking his sword and at Traysek, "I ask again; are you a rebel or not?"

Battle theme- Deceptive Tyrants- Brandon Yates

Traysek gave him a look of disgust, giving a bitter chuckle "Gods, there's delusional and then there's you...guess that slap I gave you earlier didn't knock enough sense into you..." facepalming with a chuckle, quickly blasting the two guards with chain-lightning, "As for your question, not a rebel...I'm more of a deserter...and who says I have to be though? with whipped knights like you, I'm surprised it's not open season already..." taking a stance, "Come and get it, white knight," his sword arcing in lightning.

The commander dashed forward before clashing blades with Traysek, "If only you knew how outmatched you are." he smirked before pointing forward with his arm and a volley of bullets headed from behind him to Traysek's direction.

Traysek vanished as the bullets came in, leaving behind an ignited oil barrel, "Correction, you're the outmatched one, simpleton!" from behind, kicking him, watching him stumble towards it, "Gron!" activating his dragon magic.

After taking his stance back, the commander pointed forward as a rain of arrows began to fall on top of Traysek.

The Redguard quickly brought up his ward, blocking off the arrows, "Hoho! gonna have to do better that!" Taking a deep breath, "YOL, TOOR SHUUL!" sending a blazing inferno toward his opponent, and oil barrel causing a large explosion, nearly knocking himself back.

In the dense smoke, Traysek could spot a golden bubble, before it cleared it up, revealing it to be a holy shield of some kind.

"Wow, that's impressive magic, and here I thought even this was outlawed," He complimented with a whistle.

"Holy magic given by our Goddess isn't outlawed." he narrowed his eyes, "Unlike that heretic magic of yours." he then planted his sword on the ground and some sort of golden aura fell on his body, "Feel the holy magic of the Goddess Reborn!" he then charged him.

Traysek hardened his stance, and blocked the incoming blow, causing a shockwave to burst, "Heretic magic huh? How ridiculous..." parrying the clash to the side, grabbing him and lifting him up with telekinesis, tossing him into a building wall hard, "Magic is magic, holy or not, something you knights just don't quite get," using the same spell to levitate an abandoned cart, tossing it in his direction.

The commander concentrated his life force into the sword before planting it in the ground and then swung in an upward direction, sending a wave that destroyed the cart, "Magic that comes from anywhere besides the Goddess Reborn is heretic." he then got ready to charge, but was stopped by a sword that was thrown.

Music interrupted

The Redguard also stopped his attack, noting the sword, before looking up to see someone landing near him, frowning at him 'Okay, his aura feels different...but I can't tell if he's friend or foe here,' shaking the thought out, "Who are you...? You're not a part of the Caravan Guard, are you?"

The Dark Elf looked at Traysek before turning his attention toward the human, "Your forces have been all slaughtered, I made sure that no one lives."

The commander looked worried as he noticed the lack of soldiers, "You... you're not a normal Elf..."

"What I am isn't important to you now." he then motioned with his hands as the sword returned to him, "I give you this one chance to escape. After all, you lost every last one of your men."

Traysek turned his attention to the commander, "Are you Daft? Leave Sir Scumbag, you're the only one left, this is over!" pointing his sword at him, "There's nothing to gain now, and the girl you're doing all this for, doesn't care about you, moron...you're going to die for nothing,"

"As a soldier of Celestine, I won't back away." he then looked forward, "I-"

He didn't have time as a sword flew at an incredible speed, nearly cutting his ear.

"I'm feeling generous and will give you another chance." the Dark Elf didn't move a muscle as other swords were pointing at the commander, "One word will decide your fate."

The knight gritted his teeth before running away.

"They're all talk..." the Dark Elf then headed toward the building that was sealed.

The Redguard sighed, sheathing his sword, before looking in the direction the mysterious warrior went, "Hey!" called out to him stopping him, "Thanks for the assist, but once again, who are you? You're clearly not an enemy, but you're strong," with a smile.

The Elf sighed before saying, "My name is Micrud. But, for the rest of Yamakhroz, I'm known as the Bloodclaws." he then continued his way.

"Bloodclaws huh? interesting..." Traysek nodded, before a thought occurred, "Oh shit, that's right, the barrier...!" rushing towards it as well, coming upon the wall and Bloodclaws standing in front of it, 'Guess he's got business with someone in there...wonder who?'

Micrud tapped the barrier two times as it began to dissipate, he then entered and walked to a younger Dark Elf that was unconscious.

"Idiot... I told you to never play with your life..." his voice sounded sad than anything as he began to pat her head, "I failed to protect you..."

The Redguard walked in, finding him over the woman, "Looks like she burned herself out, do you mind?" kneeling next to her, holding a hand over her, engulfing her in blue energy, "This should help out with that lost magic," causing her to rouse.

"I should have been there to protect her..." Micrud's hands tightened.

The Redguard sighed, focused on the spell, "You can't blame yourself for that, no one saw this coming...she's still alive, and luckily those holy thugs didn't get to her...I say you being here is more than enough to make up for it," stopping the mana transfer, "And done..." standing back up.

The young elf opened her eyes before looking at Mircud, "Big brother!" hugging him.

Traysek felt himself smile upon their reunion, nodding in thought, 'Big brother eh? No wonder he was crazy about coming here...still, seeing them, reminds me of good days gone by...' Before looking towards the rest of the building, making his way there, "Enjoy your reunion, I'm going to check on the rest of the villagers,"

City of Ken

Council chamber

Celestine sat as she was looking at the Shields.

"The time is going to be near to fight off the Black Dogs." Celestine pointed, "After that, we will turn our attention to Olga and see that this war ends."

"Does that means that we're going to fight her?" Claudia asked.

"I still had to decide what to do with her." Celestine answered, "However, I do know that a lot of things will have to change in all the cities that we control."

"W-what do you mean by that, lady Celestine...?" Alicia said, worry in her tone.

The goddess turned to her with a cold empty smile, "I'm glad you asked, Princess Alicia...There have been too many claims on the corruption in our nations, all except, Kaguya's kingdom..." taking a deep breath, "I appointed you all as shields because we all cared for our people and with our alliance, that was made possible with the help of the Church, the Dawn Templars, the Rose company, the Iris knights and the samurai..." Narrowing her eyes them, "Corruption or rumors of it, should not be apparent...if you cannot do something about these rumors in these kingdoms...not only will I enter the front lines against the enemy, but..." nodding her head in a signal.

Suddenly the princesses were surrounded by Soldiers clad in crimson armor, donning golden spears...

"Then I will appoint the Red Spears as the main force in each kingdom, followed up by an investigation on you, your properties, and your family's properties...am I understood...?" with a serious tone.

Claudia had a horrified expression, "M-my lady...! Where is this all coming from...? To accuse us as to allow corruption in our cities, the dawn templars would never-"

"I'm going to stop you right there, Lady Claudia...for you have already been dishonest with me...don't make it worse," Celestine said, cutting her off, turning back to the rest, "I would advise you all to heed the warning...Gather your forces and fortify your cities, if what they're saying is true...then we all need to be prepared..."

Alicia frowned at that, "They?' you mean the deserters that left us for that witch...? Why are we believing anything they have to say?! they lied to us, all of us, and abandoned us...nothing they say should matter, my lady...especially from their leader!"

"To dare talk back... you surely have a lot of guts." a voice petrified Alicia with fear as Swain emerged from one of the shadows of his soldiers, "if I remember, Celestine's words are absolute, and you're protesting?" Alicia was not only petrified, but her breathing began to accelerate as the slow steps of the man stopped her from talking.

"I-um-ah-" Alicia was trembling over words before Claudia stepped up for her.

"Of course not, lord Swain! we will follow the order to the letter, it's just...rather sudden how this has come up with the time and all...we're already stretched from searching for the...criminals, we will double our efforts," the paladin bowed, sweating as she did.

"Lady Levantine, I would suggest that you take your priorities now." Swain warned with a cold voice, "Someone who walks aimlessly, won't put a great show for the gods of this world. Especially when you failed at so many levels because you lacked the vision of a winner." Swain stopped when he reached Celestine's side, "I'm observing each one of your moves, I know every little detail of your everyday life, and I'm ready to take whatever action is necessary to protect Celestine and this world. So you'd better not disappoint me... princesses."

Just then the doors opened, the archbishop standing there, smiling pleasantly...

"I thought I heard a crow's caw in here, but I didn't think it would be the illustrious lord Swain...deciding to have a meeting without the church being present," looking around, noting the crimson soldiers, "And to have your red spears here no doubt, almost like you're trying to take over alliance, am I wrong?" Grisholm inquired.

"Look at this... the unholy light of the seven kingdoms..." Swain stared at the man, "How're the children that you're keeping, your unholiness...?"

The archbishop simply walked in, "Accusing me... the holiest man in the alliance is hearsay on its own...but because of your... "status", I can overlook it...today..." slightly opening his eyes, giving off an aura, turning to Celestine with a pleasant smile, "It's good to see you Milady, no wonder I haven't heard from you, you've been surrounded by rather nasty ravens as of late..." directing the last bit at Swain, before giving her bow, "I am here to inform you all, that the church has now doubled their efforts in recruitment, as such, we will be ready for when our enemies arrive..." cutting an eye at swain, "ANY of them..."

Swain gave him a cold stare before saying out loud, "Mitelly, Ocra village aged of 14 years... interesting, so that's your taste. Maybe my investigations should begin with the church and all the nobles that fund the activities they really do." he then turned to Celestine, "What do you say, Celestine? Should I begin the investigations?"

The archbishop began to sweat slightly, but kept his smile, "I have no idea where these baseless accusations are coming from... our church does not participate in acts so Depraved, not surprising coming from the alliance's most unfaithful..."

She waved it off, "No need," narrowing her eyes on him, "Archbishop, thank you for your report, but please refrain from antagonizing lord swain any further...I know you've both never gotten along and as such, I will heed the same warning to you as well, if you cannot as the church perform your duty by fending off this betrayal, I will allow him to investigate...much as it pains me, do you understand?"

Grisholm gave an acknowledging bow, "You have my word there, Lady Celestine...my men and I will do as you instructed...to the letter," before turning and walking away, smirking.

"Be careful of him." Swain spoke using magic, making sure that only Celestine heard him, "He's planning something... and I don't like it."

'I'm beginning to see that...and I hope...that's not the case, he's been our friend for the longest...' She spoke back with the same magic, 'But after that...If those accusations ARE true, I trust that you do what you must...' watching his departure, before turning to the shields, "This meeting is dismissed, head back to your kingdoms,"

Swain lifted his hands and bright red portals appeared behind them.

Once the shields left, Celestine sighed, sitting back down in her chair, "This was harder than usual...they didn't seem to take that well, was I too harsh on them?"

"That's not a question that I should answer." Swain smiled before sitting beside her, "For far too long you were too docile, letting them do whatever they want. But, one thing is certain; I will help you with all the powers that I have."

He then lifted his right hand before doing a pulling motion as a clawed hand brought in a man who was listening in on them.

"Well, this is bold of you," Swain looked at him before saying, "Why did the unholy man send you?"

The man seemingly struggled in the grip, taking a breath, "By all means, I'm here to keep an eye on the goddess, as instructed by the church...I was given no other detail than that,"

"Spying on someone like the Goddess is a crime... not only that, but you are hiding the truth." Swain looked at him with cold calculating eyes, "Maybe after an hour or two with me, you'll begin to talk... if you keep your ability to talk."

The captured man let out a sigh of defeat, "Perhaps, but then you'd prove his point by torturing me...he's already suspecting you of committing hearsay, and with what I'm caught in..." glancing at the crimson hand, "That's becoming more of a reality...after all, who cares about a slaughtered lamb?"

"That doesn't change the fact that we're going to have a long and slow talk." Swain then turned to Celestine, "If you excuse me, I need to deal with this rat." he then teleported to his estate with the man.

Celestine took a deep breath, glancing at the calling stone on her table, 'Should you come out of this... haze, I still have the calling stone, ring me up anytime, I won't ignore ya...' a certain voice echoed while staring at it...shaking the thought out of her head, "Not yet...I can't call yet, not until I'm sure...but even then..." her ears drooped, before standing up and leaving the room.

With Team 2

In the scorching desert, the three were walking beneath the sun as the elephant of the Gnoll queen was behind them. And unfortunately, the sun was in front of them. The elephant had a cold aura around him, that affects him and the Packleader only, as the only thing that it needed was food, which was given by the rider occasionally.

The crew, on the other hand, had ice on their backs, prior to the frost potions they had, which kept them cool...Yuriana still behind both of the adventurers, but her temper had died down...in fact, most of the mood was...given what had occurred, and now? so many things can go wrong at the end of it...and with doubt in their minds, it had worsened.

Inigo took a gulp from his canteen, before passing it to Lucien, "Here, I know you ran out of yours..."

"Thank you," taking a gulp out of it, "How's your face and gut?"

"Luckily, got better quickly...I have the potion to thank for that...just...thinking right now..." The khajiit trailed off, "Maybe we were in the wrong there...I did shoot first, even if he would've done what he'd done...I could've aimed anywhere else,"

The imperial sighed, "You're not the only one to blame here, we backed it up and we just have to deal with that now...we can't go back and we already paid for it..." giving him a smile, "And besides, the boss would argue that since they were armed, it was fair, but..."

"He'd also understand what we did there, was also wrong...you both know that..." Yuriana cut in with, catching up, "Much as I don't agree with what happened there, we have to remember that Skyrim is a long way home, this place is different...and if we're all being honest, we considered them apart of Volt's army, which is why we're here now...we basically did the same thing, the holy army does...and we still managed to get off lucky...orc blood prices are worse..."

Inigo shuddered, "Tell me about it, I still have nightmares about watching one of theirs, arms ripped off entirely..."

"Yeah, and you just had two blows...one animal, for 30 lives, I can't see that being too fair..." She added in, "We will be lucky if we even get paid at this point...which now all henges how well Lucien can negotiate as he did back there,"

"Trust me, once we explain the situation, it should work out in our favor...if not, well...there's a plan there too..." The imperial said, "I just hope we don't have to rely on option B...hoping that Lin is willing to listen even..."

The Packleader spotted something from far away and began to concentrate her sight on the point of interest, before widening her eyes. She took her spear and leaped toward it.

Inigo frowned before watching her head in a direction, "Where is she going? seems way off from where we need to go,"

It was then they heard it, the rapid beeping from Lucien...

"Guys, I think we found Razzfang, if she leaped there, then it's no wonder..." The imperial said with wide eyes, but there's another signal too...bigger in fact..."

Yuriana nodded, "Then I say we follow, if there is something else there, the Gnoll queen just dove towards it..."

All three of them broke off into a run, making their way there...

But stopped when they saw her plunging the spear down the ground. Whatever was beneath Razzfang began to move until it got out of the sand, revealing to be a giant scorpion with crystal parts.

"A Crystalline Stingers... nice. I've always dreamed to face an elder one alone." her face turned into a toothy smirk as she began to fight the creature.

Lucien blinked twice, "That's a huge scorpion, should we intervene?"

"Nah, let the queen of punches handle that...not to mention, she wouldn't appreciate it," Inigo sighed, taking a seat.

Yuriana nodded, "He's right, and we get to see how strong she is outside of pounding him," nodding her head toward's Inigo, "Besides, sooner or later, she's going need help removing the device, rather she wants to or not, otherwise it'll rust and then he'll have a problem..."

The Packleader easily avoided the stinger before jumping and then punching the base of the tail with enough force to not only destroy a crystalized part but also cut it.

"Packed with magic and ready to use it... even better." her smirk grew as she rushed, evading the pincers, and then delivered an uppercut that sent the head flying.

The trio watched wide-eyed, as the head came down...

"Consider yourself lucky that wasn't you...by the gods," Yuriana gulped.

Inigo rubbed his neck, "No kidding...ouch...she really held back then,"

"Extremely so...I'm lucky I even have a face right now, yikes..." Lucien sweated, as they watched her dismantle the rest of it.

The queen held the beating heart of the creature before beginning to eat it. When she was done, she felt a boost of power before walking to the downed Razzfang.

Inigo applauded, sarcastically, "Impressive...not like I haven't seen better or anything, but good job!"

"You're not doing a good job yourself hiding your unimpression, are you?" Lucien asked, shaking his head.

"I'm trying...okay? I've never been that good at lying, but I'm trying dammit," The khajiit snorted, standing.

Yuriana sighed with a slight smile, "It's alright if you're not, I don't blame you, she sent you flying after all...but let's not do anything else stupid than we already have, alright? we aren't talking, so we don't have to worry about it until the time comes,"

The Packleader began to stroke the back of the downed Gnoll before narrowing her eyes.

"The poison is already working on the nervous system... which means that you are barely awake..." her expression was almost sad, "But, I have to do it..."

After noticing the scratching marks she took a swift swing with her claws, which took away the skin and a bit of muscle from his back.

"Now, to heal your wound..." she began to cast fire. But instead of burning, the wound began to close as if nothing happened, "And now, the poison..." a light green aura appeared around Razzfang for a brief moment, "And finally, your life force." the Packleader began to cast a leaf green light as the Gnoll began to regain his consciousness.

Lucien sighed, looking at the device, "I can't help but feel useless here, guess we won't be until we get back to the hunter's outpost," standing up and stretching.

"Why do we have to be useful to them? if they want to do it on their own, let them, I'm not feeling too 'helpful' at the moment anyway..." Inigo said, relaxing on the spot, fanning himself off.

Yuriana nodded, "You know? I actually have to agree there...it IS a waste of time to help someone who doesn't want it, the only thing we have to do is ensure this meeting goes well...so unless a whole horde of them show up, I can't see why we have to either,"

When the Gnoll regained consciousness, both of them got themselves in a hug.

The trio watched the exchange, Inigo standing up and stretching...

"I'm heading back to the trail...I'll meet you guys there," The khajiit sighed, walking back.

Yuriana glanced at him, shaking her head, "I might as well head back too, this monster was disappointing...I had better things to do," being the next to walk off.

Lucien watched them for a moment, before smiling, heading back there himself...

Both Gnolls got on the elephant and it began following the three adventurers.

At the hunter's outpost...

They finally arrived back at the outpost after treading the desert, the khajiit sighed in relief knowing this was coming to an end soon, one way or another...

"We're finally back and it looks like we're expected..." He said, noting the armed guards out and around.

Lucien nodded, "I expected this, hopefully, they'll be reasonable enough to listen..."

"They haven't attacked yet, so there's a chance..." Yuriana muttered, walking ahead of them, "We need to speak to the blade master, is she amongst you?"

Lin walked forward, but her eyes widen when she saw the Packleader of the Gnoll.

"Ashar?!" the surprise in her tone said it all.

"Long time no see." the Gnoll smirked before adding, "Are you still the same as the one that I got to howl in the forest five years ago?"

"You- Don't say embarrassing stuff like that!" the blush didn't go unnoticed by the others.

"Didn't know they even had a past, that makes this interesting..." The wench hummed with a nod, "I wonder what kind...?"

"We'll she did mention "Howling" doesn't take much thought to figure it out..." Inigo facepalmed.

Lucien rose an eyebrow, "So you knew each other...? had a past even...and you forgot...?"

"Hey! No one knew what the Packleader looked like! Even when I met her, I didn't know that she was the Packleader of the desert Gnolls!" she protested with a blush.

"Aww, still single? Does that mean that you couldn't find someone as big as me?" Ashar leaned forward, still smirking, "I wonder if you're still tight like before."

"Stop talking like that!"

The Gnoll chuckled before jumping from her elephant to land in front of the embarrassed panda, "So you were the one ignoring the letters that we sent."

"I didn't receive any letter." Lin pointed out, "As airheaded as I am, I know when to be serious.

Ashar narrowed her eyes before saying, "Does that mean that someone wants to ignite a war?"

Lin sighed before replying, "Probably, but I don't know who would like that. No one has something to gain from this."

"True... but still, it doesn't explain why doing it now. Especially since the Bloodmoon will appear in three nights." Ashar stated as she began to walk with Lin, "If a war did start, the casualties would have been great..." and they left the group alone with the guards and Razzfang.

Inigo watched as she left with Lin, sighing, "Gods...I feel like an idiot now...we almost triggered a war, I...don't know how I feel about this..."

"Inigo...you don't have to-" Lucien began, getting a headshake from the khajiit.

"It's fine...Lucien...the walk all the way back gave me a lot to think about...especially seeing the reunion between her and Razzfang...it...it actually reminded me why I stayed with all of you in the first place...reminded me of my own family...I miss them sometimes you know? especially my brother...I wonder what he would've thought about this...what we did..." Inigo said eyes shadowed, "Wouldn't be the first time I did something stupid...and regretted it..."

Yuriana stared at him, putting a hand on his shoulder, "Don't start beating yourself up over it...We all had a part to play there, and because we didn't know about them, we treated them like an enemy..." giving a sad smile, "As an ex-bandit, let me share some advice...there will always be those that either hate everything you do and those that will appreciate it...you don't get far in the world worrying about either...just move on and learn from it...that's all you can do..."

Not too soon after, both Lin and Ashar got back, still talking.

"There's far too many things that we need to think about," Ashar stated.

"Well, there are other points of interest where we can build another Outpost, and I'm pretty sure that the general would be very receptive of that." Lin replied.

"But who told you that this place was safe to use? it's known that these lands are originally Gnoll lands." Ashar asked as she folded her arms.

"He didn't say his name, nor showed his face." Lin sighed before adding, "Well, at least now, I know that we were in the wrong."

"You were tricked in the wrong." the Packleader corrected, "I will work on my end to get the culprit."

Lin nodded as Ashar jumped on the elephant and walked toward the desert, Razzfang threw one last glare with a growl at the trio before turning back.

The trio watched as they disappeared beyond the road, the khajiit shaking off his glare.

"Glad that's sorted...almost thought we botched it..." Inigo said, with a relieved smile.

Lucien turned back around, "So I'm taking that this went well then, you guys seem to really know each other..."

"Indeed, almost intently too~ wish we would've known about that, before fighting with them..." Yuriana added in.

"I didn't know that Ashar was a Packleader..." Lin sighed heavily before blushing, "B-Besides, my relation with her is private."

"It's fine, we're not trying to pry," Lucien waved off, "So are we done here? seems like it ended on a good note,"

Lin sighed again before handing the Imperial a small bag, "Your payment."

"So where will you go now...?" Inigo asked, stretching, "heard that bit about relocating, and anywhere east will take you near the shields,"

"Very true, and knowing how they are, they won't be too nice..." Yuriana added in.

"Don't worry about it, I figured a nice place." Lin replied, "Well, enjoy your day." she then headed away.

But, a voice rang... a voice that Lucian heard before.

"What's the plan now?" the voice of the Dark Elf girl that he met when was with Traysek.

"Maybe see if the General doesn't need help." the Lycan boy replied as he had a black hydra with him.

"Aren't you going to train to be able to create a link with another battle companion?" she asked.

The Lycan boy smirked before saying, "I've already chosen what battle companion I'm going to link myself with next."

Lucien frowned, pocketing the gems, "That's the same woman that I and boss had run into before this job..." glancing at the hydra, "And that must be a battle companion...I'd like to check one out but..."

"We'll come back, wherever they relocate...but for now, we should probably head home, maybe think about what all we've done today, perhaps?" Yuriana said, getting nods from Inigo.

"I won't object to that, and besides..." Inigo began clutching his stomach, "I can afford to get a bit more rest before worrying about the payment..."

The imperial nodded, pulling out his home porting stone, "Guess we have a reason to use these, it would take us three days to get back...not to mention, I don't think it's a good idea to be walking around out here,"

"Teleporting it is, I'd rather not have another run-in with these Gnolls," The wench admitted, pulling hers out as well, "So since we're going home for a while, what would you rate this contract?"

Once Inigo fetched his stone, he sighed, "If I'm being honest...C- and that's a lighter guess than I had come up with..."

"That's not too bad...alright, back to the house of wings we go..." The imperial said, holding his up, and warping when it lit up.

Yuriana and Inigo did the same, they too teleporting there...leaving wind as they did...

Mission complete...

Job Ranking: C-

Meanwhile, with Team 1...

Back at the Village, repairs had begun after the commander fled, the caravan themselves offered to help with most of it, with renovating buildings and destroyed property...Traysek was busy fixing the cart he had thrown at the enemy...finishing up the last wheel...

"And done with that..." turning to the goblin owner, "Your cart is finished, brought back to its past glory," he presented with a smile.

While the Goblin was happy with the cart, Endra approached Traysek.

"Just a few more minutes and we would be ready to go." Endra sighed before adding, "Well, we saved those that were harmed... but I'm not sure if their psyche is still good."

The Redguard nodded, "I can imagine, there's no telling what exactly was done here...or to these people for that matter, I'm just glad we put an end to it," turning to him, "Thanks for telling me, I'm going on a walk, check to see if my guys are pulling their weight...joining me?"

"Why not?" the Dark Elf shrugged before smirking, "Besides, I want to know where the lovebirds are in their relationship now."

Traysek chuckled, starting his walk, "You're really selling on that huh? But I will admit, she's taken to him well, I honestly expected her to kind of hold back with getting close, knowing how her past went..." eyes going dark for a moment, "And your guy, seems pretty ok for the most part...I do notice he's usually silent...doesn't like talking, I'd ask, but I'm not sure how much you can divulge there,

A dark expression fell on Edra's face as he began, "Dargo is one of the survivors of an elf village that was attacked. Well, we're from the same village... he had a crush on a nice gal. It got better between them as I was the cupid that got them closer when we integrated the Kletzkrieg... even if he got it at the first go. I mean, the guy's a freaking genius. And he was able to develop his own fighting style. the girl and I got in a year later. But... it was during a mission where he was forced to kill her..."

The Redguard rose an eyebrow, "'Forced to kill her...?' by the gods, what led to that...?"

"There's that priest in Ur that went to a village to 'Share the good word of the Goddess Reborn and take them back to the right way'. But, he was there to slaughter every villager that turned their back to the goddess reborn." Endra answered, "We were stationed there as headguards of the village after rebuilding it. and we fended a lot of their attacks. Until he arrived... he possess some sort of magic that can be used to manipulate the mind of others. I guess that you can figure the rest..."

"You don't have to tell me, I know how mind magic works, one of my shouts can do that...I just don't like using it...poor guy, I'd don't think I'd be alright upstairs if I had to go through that..." Traysek sighed, going into thought, "Guess that gives me an excuse to go there after Feoh. Especially if they've got that kind of power behind them..." eyes going dark for a second, "Knowing that they've got the power to do this and that it's gone unchecked for so long...I feel sick knowing that we were blades to that...even if it was for money or status, we'd still be in service to that...I'm glad we left when we did, gods,"

"We know that you didn't know all the truth. If we pass judgment based on your ignorance of this world's truth, we won't be better than them..." Endra stated.

Traysek thought about that, raising an eyebrow again, "You might not believe me, but your general said something like that," with a genuine smile, "it's Much appreciated...and now that we do know...I don't regret leaving them...even if that meant...leaving her behind..." his mind flashes to Celestine in tears, shaking it out, "And besides..." passing by Erik who was helping the builders pull up a piece of the broken building, along with Recorder who was cleaning up the mess on the streets with Dargo, "I think they couldn't be any happier for it..."

"Who knows? Maybe the young lady can fix what's been broken in him." Endra chuckled before noticing that a group of guards from Yamakhroz arrived, "Looks like the reinforcements are here."

Glancing up, Traysek noticed the soldiers from the secret city, moving in to comfort those that had been affected, even offering to heal a few of them...

"I noticed, maybe they're here to take over the repairs, and you did mention we'd be leaving soon..." The Redguard said, watching them take over the renovating, "Guess our help here has come to an end..."

A loud sound scared both men as a Goblin arrived in a strange war machine.

"Time for business!" was the first thing he said.

Traysek rose an eyebrow at the newcomer, "That's quite the machine you've got there, sturdy looking too..." nodding in approval, "I may be in the market for something, since that commander did this to my cloak," showing off the holes in it, "My question is, do you take gold or Gems?"

The Goblin looked at him before nodding, "I take both! I want shiny and good things!"

"I wouldn't trust him if I were you." Endra warned in a whisper, "Goblins like him are known to be greedy... too greedy."

He turned his frown to the archer, "Okay that-" Quickly glancing back at the greedy smile, "-...Might be true, but I'm still willing to see what he's got, not to mention I can haggle if it comes down to that..." he whispered, before clearing his throat, "What do you have in stock currently? I've got a bit of both on me,"

He gave him a scroll, "Here are the best weapons you can find here."

"See? handed us a scroll to his wares, doesn't seem that bad..." Traysek said, looking at the guns, "I like how these look, much better than-" freezing midsentence when he spotted the prices...jaw dropping to the floor.

Endra patted his back, "I warned you."

"Yeah... yeah you did..." Traysek nodded in shame, looking back up, "As nice as these are, I don't have that kind of money at the moment...maybe if I robbed a treasury, by all means, but these prices are scaring me..." in a raspy whisper.

"This is cheap compared to back home." Endra pointed, "Goblins are really greedy."

The Redguard's face contorted to shock, "You can't be serious...really?" sighing after, "It's fine, it's ok, I've got a goal to work towards now...one of them anyway..." clearing his throat, "Thank you for the offer, I really like these...especially your mini-cannon and vicious killer but unfortunately, I'll have to get back to you when my pockets match that of a noble...five of them..."

"How about a discount?" the Goblin asked, "I'll reduce any price by 5000 gold pieces."

Traysek gave him a blank stare and a blink, "You do realize, even with that discount, I still can't afford these...taking 5000 off doesn't make it less of a robbery..." he deadpanned.

"Unique weapons made by me, powerful and good quality guaranteed." the Goblin replied.

"As much as I hate to say it, but the Goblins do have good quality weapons..." Endra stated with a shameful tone before sobbing, "I can't believe that I said something good about them..."

Traysek gave him a sad smile, "I can understand, believe me, it's just expensive as hell...but," turning to the goblin, "Do you have a call stone, a way for me to contact you for when I do? I'll definitely buy one of these from you, but I just need more than what I've got..."

"Sure thing!" the Goblin replied "But that doesn't mean that I'll be here forever. I move a lot, and you're going to need a lot of time to get to me if you're far."

They held their stones out, causing them to sync in magic before the Redguard put his away.

"Thank you, and so am I, so I'll probably see you around if I'm out here," Traysek grinned, "Also, if you have any contracts or jobs, give me a ring and we'll work something out," offering a handshake, "What's your name, friend?"

"The name's Globnik!" the Goblin enthusiastically shook Traysek's hand.

"Traysek's the name, it's nice meeting you Globnik," taking his hand back, "I'll be in touch, I do hope our paths cross again"

The Goblin started his machine before going away.

"Are you sure that's wise?" Endra asked with a worried expression.

Traysek waved it off, "I see no harm in it, knowing how greedy he is, it'll be a while before I use his services anyway... I still have my other black market to depend on...which I'll call soon, that Dremora said he had something for me, on the house apparently,"

"Black market?" Endra was totally confused by the word.

The Redguard sighed, "It's a term for a secret and/or sometimes, Illegal market, I have the ability to summon a dremora that deals with those kinds of goods, and at a very decent price, can't complain too much there..." he shrugged, before narrowing his eyes "but there are others out there, that deal exotic goods, maybe animal or monster parts for profit and at worst they also can also sell slaves to make a profit...many cities either don't see it or they simply allow it under cloak and dagger..." he turned to the goblin, "Take Globnik for an example, he's more freelance, but I can even tell that he sells legal and Illegal goods, he's what you'd consider a grey market, that's good to have on demand,"

"I guess that's something that'll never be in Yamakhroz." Endra simply shook his head, "People wouldn't like to be targeted by the Dark Blades."

"Definitely not, but out here in these kingdoms? you'll see a lot if you know where to look..." Traysek said, with a nod, "That said, before we go home, I do need to see what he had for me...most likely a new weapon or something similar,"

"Is there a good reason for that?" Endra asked before waving his hand, "You know what, it's none of my business. Just make sure that it doesn't cause trouble in Yamakhroz. The last thing you want is to be in the sight of the Anti-human faction... and they're seeking any reason to throw humans out."

Traysek waved him down dismissively, "It shouldn't lead to that much trouble, especially if I'm going to be using it on our enemies, even they won't be able to complain...it wouldn't merit any point to," pulling his scimitar out, finding a large crack going through the blade, "And I'm worried about this being a problem later, that last blow from that commander really did a number on it..."

"Have it your way." Endra sighed before adding, "Just remember that the way the enemy looks at you, maybe the same way that your allies would look at you."

The Redguard smirked with a nod, "I'll keep that in mind, thanks for the heads up..." before spotting the lead centaur approaching them, "And speaking of heads up," nodding his head towards her.

"We're moving soon, so get ready." even if she appeared to be happy, there was something that felt off about her.

Traysek frowned upon her expression, "Uh...sure thing, I'll let my men know, and we'll be good to go" smiling back with a nod.

With that, she went off in a direction...

"The Khan won't like it..." Endra sighed, "At least, we know that there's no possible target for him now."

"For now...Commander Wimp was the only one that got away, hoping he's smart enough not to try it out there," The Redguard sighed, shaking his head, "I'll get the other two, let them know we're going to leave, but if I said that didn't feel stranger than a dinner with Daedra, I'd be lying..." walking off to fetch them.

"I fear that an upcoming ordeal will fall on Yamakhroz." Endra mumbled, "And all of the city must unite to face that ordeal."

A manor in Feoh

Rey followed the knight and noticed paintings of a man, as well as young women and a few of the knights in front of him.

The knight stopped and knocked at a door, "Lord Ruthven, You need to meet someone."

After a moment, a hard voice replied, "Enter."

The knight opened the door, letting Reynold into an office, with a much older version of the knight sitting at a desk from the pictures, giving him an overall stare...Rey frowned upon this, 'I've never heard of this Lord Ruthven before...not even my father mentioned him...'

"So this is the boy Swain spoke about..." the old knight spoke, "You look much younger than I thought, but if Swain wants you to get in the Birds of Prey, I won't object to it. I'm pretty sure he has his reasons."

'Birds of prey...? What's he talking about...?' He mused, before nodding, "I am indeed the one swain Recommended..." giving a formal bow, "I am Reynold Von Musel, it's honor sir but..." eyes going dark, "How I messed up during my first mission with Commander Niall, I'm not too sure now..." rubbing the back of his neck.

"If this is what it took to put a real man down, no one would be standing." Ruthven stated before looking at a piece of paper, "How about proving that you're worthy of the upper echelons? If you're interested in helping us with dealing with a... small problem."

The young knight rose an eyebrow, "Perhaps...what does this problem entail...?"

"There were a lot of attacks lately, and the targets were nobles." the old knight stated before handing a paper to the young knight, "All you'll have to do is to go find whatever did this. As for the rest, I'll see what to do with it."

Reynold rubbed his chin on that, "Attacks on the nobles...? interesting, that does need to be looked into...especially given that not every one of them is corrupt..." reading over the paper, "I'll set out to Ur, see if I can learn anything there, but I do have one request if possible..."

Ruthven raised an eyebrow before asking, "What is it?"

Rey took a sigh, "The assassin Jenelica...could you perhaps keep her away from me while I do this? I don't need her to be laughing at my shortcomings while I do this task...I understand if you don't, but I'd hope for it..." in a bow.

"Her..." Ruthven took a deep breath, "I can't do anything as her status is beyond me. You'll understand when you return..." he then mumbled, "This kid will be the death of us one day, I'm sure of it."

The young knight sighed, "I'm aware of her..."status"...regardless, thank you anyway," giving another bow, before turning to leave the office.

"Swain really needs to put some lines with our members." Ruthven sighed.

"You do know how powerful her voice is... as well as her curses." the woman said before adding, "What else did you think would happen, old man?"

"Something else..." the old knight answered while taking a deep breath before looking at her arm, "How is your arm doing?"

"Ever since Lord Swain fixed it, it has been good... fearsome even," she answered.

"Don't let the others know what Swain did." Ruthven warned, "Even if he's well placed in the court of Celestine, there are some that would love to take him out."

"I know..." the woman sighed before exiting the office.

Orc Warcamp

Xunaakt looked at the surviving Dog while Volt was sweating bullets.

"I was promised a fortress, the half-orc as my first mate, and great power..." Xunaakt listed before looking at Volt, "And what do I have?"

"I'm sure that there's a good explanation to why-" Volt tried to talk but was cut short.

"Silence!" Xunaakt snapped, "The fortress was lost because you decided to abandon it, and you recovered no power from it. And even if these two are gone, for the moment, I would have been satisfied with the half-orc daughter of the exiled one. But I have none."

"Look, just give us more time." Volt said after a sigh, "The Bloodseekers warned us about his skills and the curse that he has, which means that you couldn't threaten him even if you went there."

"Excuses and excuses! That's all that I hear!"

"Let's first hear what he has to say," Volt said before nodding at the Dog.

The dog gulped with a worried expression, before clearing his throat, "W-we went to do what was asked...it was going well...until we ran into him... the red-eyed freak that burned you sir...he's...the reason our plans failed...along with those freak friends of his...he was even traveling with this caravan..."

"Caravan?" Volt was confused before hearing Xunaakt sighing.

"I only heard rumors about it... but still, this friend of yours ended up being the reason why we lost the fortress." Xunaakt pointed out with a glare

Volt growled before saying, "Don't remind me."

"Still, why should I let you live? You failed the simplest task, which would end just by sneaking around." Xunaakt asked as he raised his war axe above his shoulder, "Give me one reason to let you live."

The black dog once again, gulped, sweating bullets, "Because, despite the fact that we failed, I still happen to know where she is...I asked around after our attempts at the bar and found out that she's at a temple; just on the outskirts of that village...I just need more men and I can have this bride in a gift box for you...wedding dress and all if need be, we won't even touch her...if your willing to give me another chance that is..."

"You have one. Last. Chance." Xunaakt's face got near the Dog's face, "If you fail, I'll personally skin you alive to make our war drums! And that is a promise."

Volt simply gave him a look that said 'Can't save you now' before saying, "Go rest a little before heading out, you need to be on your best form to get her." he then whispered to him, "Try not to fail this time."

The dog gave a bow, "As you say, Lord Volt, I'll leave for the temple when I have my strength..." and with that, left the two leaders in a hurry.

"You'd better keep your end of the bargain, Volt, or you won't like what happens," Xunaakt warned.

"You will have all that you need, I just need you to be patient." Volt stated, "All will be as I promised you."

Xunaakt simply glared at Volt before moving away.

To be continued...

So that concludes another chapter as well as team 2's assignment...the next chapter won't feature them, considering they have ALOT to think about...however Traysek's remains on their job...with one more village to go, they will soon meet some familiar faces...what will be the last village and will this plan that the dogs have cooked up, go into fruition...the game has been set, but the pieces aren't yet moving...find out next time, on... Red dragon's roar!

Extra note: So, I know most of you have your questions on why I didn't make Traysek a one-punch Jesus...despite what the lore says...I have an answer to that...do you have any idea, how boring this story would be if he could simply rely on one shout...? not that I don't understand why most of you want a curb-stomp because of who their enemies are...(Which will mostly happen)but think of it this way... I don't want this fic to become, Kuroinu #3450068 when a blank dark protagonist one-punches his way to the girl's bedroom...I aim to go beyond that...now if you want to debate on that notion, I'm always up for it...but as they say, "More money, more problems" the same could be said about gaining power...so if that answer wasn't satisfying...I get it and once again, hit my dms or leave a review if you have other thoughts on the matter... thank you, and may the gods watch over your stories friend :)