Chapter 21: Before the Plunge

'Dirt' stirred in his bed as he began to awake slowly from his slumber. With some energy returning to his body, he awoke in the darkness of his room and quietly began to tuck in his bed and put on his gear. The otter had done this many times before, trained to awake earlier than usual to await Markem at the foot of his door and to await him. The otter took up his father's sword into his belt casually, but paused for a moment, looking out the window and into the dark streets of Gholand. It would be morning soon, but today was no normal morning, for today would be a long and frustrating day. 'Dirt' had responsibilities, but he turned to the sleeping 'Mud' and Yala who were resting in their bunks. He looked at them sadly, 'Dirt's' many regrets about his life would often flood back to him as the day drew to light.

'Dirt' went out into the keep's halls, slowly and quietly closing the door behind him, and was walking towards Markem's room. The otter went past the other guards of the keep, which had been doubled since the attempt on Markem's life. One of the tired guards which had been sitting in a chair at Markem's door looked sleepily at the otter. "Yer bright an' early, slave beast."

'Dirt' sighed. It was humiliating enough to be considered a slave still, let alone being Markem's personal bodyguard. It was perhaps worse that nearly everyone knew him by the name of 'Dirt' and not his real name, provided they even remember that. Most just called him slave, which 'Dirt' often could excuse, since Markem was not the only one who had trouble with names. The vermin guard got up and yawned, letting 'Dirt' replace him as he sat.

The otter had often a lot of time to reflect on his life in the moments of boredom, his entire existence thus far was often awaiting for Markem's orders and commands. He would stare at the door in front of him, his ears ringing and left his mind to wander to pass the time. 'Dirt' could easily see himself entering the rat's room, taking up his father's sword, and then bringing it down on Markem. It would have been a swift murder, his freedom secured in that very moment, and his father avenged. However, he would always think back to all those times he had saved Markem's life, he could soon see himself facing Markem's offspring and having to explain to them why he had taken their father away from them. The thoughts of what would happen to him after that moment held him back as it always did; what would happen to his brother? To him? The slaves of the camp? True, he would save a lot of good beasts, knowing what Markem's goals were, and save Mossflower a lot of trouble.

What about Dakab? His mind wandered, a worse curser than that of Markem. 'Mud' was always the one who casually convinced 'Dirt' of all the bad things that happened to them when they tried to resist, and those years of beatings and cruelty before Markem had calmed in his older age still weighed on him. 'Dirt' tried to imagine better things; writing a book, playing with youngsters outside, maybe even going out and seeing the eastern coast and swim in the sea. However, what had disturbed him was that he saw himself not as free even then, and the choking weight of the rope on his neck even infested his fantasies.

The door unlocked rather suddenly as 'Dirt' stood to attention, and Markem walked out. He looked fairly grumpy and unusually anxious. The rat looked over 'Dirt' and nodded to him "Oh good, yer up. Come, I need that. . .armor on. Seasons, if I gotta wear that thing this whole day, I am gonna puke out me guts!"

'Dirt' came to his master's side and walked next to him, standing tall over him as the rat warlord looked nervous. 'Dirt' noticed and asked "You don't look very happy today, sir. Perhaps you should rest."

"I'll rest when i'm dead, 'Dirt'. Besides, I think it hurt me back pulling in that slab that one day. Remind me not to do that."

'Dirt' was swift to retort "It probably hurt the backs of the woodlanders as well."

"Yea, well, that's der job. I don't feed em to slack off." Markem casually commented. 'Dirt' shaked his head while the rat wasn't looking and the two were off. Markem did not like mornings, and frankly, he didn't like what was coming today. Many vermin, their hordes, and their allies would all be in and around Gholand, and he had to lord over all of them.
_

As dramatic as it would have been for all of the eastern hordes to arrive at once would have been preferable for Markem. It would have been easier for him and his inner circle of warlords to lord over the majority of the lesser warlords from across the newly made realm. The Great Vermin Band was promoted as a unity of the warlords, but in reality, unity between the vermin was as foreign to them as peace. Hordes came throughout the week and at their own pace, as Markem gave them only some limited time to make things right at home and gather a force to Gholand. Markem had sent out orders to his recruiters and aligned hordes, their tents pitched alongside those of Jusbrag and Veekun's Burrow vermin. Gangsters and hordes from all over had come, those who swore to his cause as equals in the Great Vermin Band.

Realistically, such a muster would have taken months, but Markem was in a hurry. The Long Patrol were not fools, and certainly were not going to wait around for Markem to gather his armies. Markem had pushed his vermin hard and had made his last arrangements. The rat warlord knew that Long Patrol scouts were haunting the forests, spying on his realm from afar. Reports came in often, with younger woodlanders taking up arms and escaping to Tussock from his tributaries, likely to warn them of his coming. A large group of hares and their outposts stood in the way between him and Mossflower, but Tussock was not the only issue on his mind, but the Great Vermin Band itself. Markem knew there was a lot of division that had to be taken care of, a lot of feuds to put aside, and a whole new political scheme that had to be wrestled with. Scarl had ultimately been correct when he first proposed this to Markem; none of the issues would ever truly be resolved, only delayed.

Warlords and gang leaders were checked at the gates of Gholand before being ushered in by Markem's captains, and we're all climbing up the stairs to meet Markem. Markem himself did not use an announcer, nor did he send out a captain to greet them. Markem himself would come out, shaking the paws of his peers and usher them inside. When 'Mud' and Yala awoke to do their morning chores, they both casually and accidentally walked into the main hall, finding it completely filled up with some of the most fearsome, gruesome, and vile warlords in all of Mossflower itself, and those beyond. Both came up to Markem's side, with 'Mud' looking for orders from him. Sheera was in her own chair to Markem's side, with the rat warlord's children getting to know and play with another warchief's children who had been brought along for the trip.

"Ya two best keep low." Markem whispered to 'Mud' in particular "De's folk are never friendly when on der march, although I'd like some of that brew we had from last week we had the feast of we got it. I think Adoln has some stored. . .erm, somewhere."

'Mud' nodded "Want me to leave it near you, or just dump it in the middle of the big hall?"

Sheera scolded him "You put a barrel on that floor and scratch it, otter, and ya will be personally rebuilding the floor on yer own! Put it on the table." 'Mud' went as ordered, followed by Yala. Sheera turned to her husband "I don't see me brother. You don't think anythin happened, right?" Sheera sounded concerned, but Markem reassured her.

"I sent out cap'n Kyth an' his division to escort yer brother, he likely ain't bringun much, but the hares won't bother wit him much I am more den certain. They are probably tryin to figure out me maneuvers. Once der others arrive, we can get all this business started."

Sheera grunted "Fine den, but if ya think fer a second that Luzgot is goin to find good graces wit me, he's got another ding comin. I don't care what Scarl thinks of em, a poisoner can't be trusted I tell ya."

"Agreed." Markem nodded. Markem was then approached by a large and fearsome looking rat, much like himself. The rat had a pirate's jacket and curved sword to his side, and spoke with a sea ladden accent. Markem knew him as Lusket, a powerful warlord who had settled the eastern coast with his crew. Markem liked Lusket, a fellow rat but also a friendly creature. Perhaps the most unfortunate feature about him was his croaky and deep voice, which was not very soothing to hear. "Markem, me matey! Good to see you yet again. I gotta say, when I saw Jusbrag vermin here, I thought ya were under siege!"

"Ha!" Markem laughed "I wish I were, Kylan an' Hazul had been out an' about me, friend. Those two would strange each other, an' I'd rather deal wit dem on the battlefield den listen to em' talk, eh?"

The pirate laughed out cruelly. 'Mud' and Yala returned with a large barrel of fresh mead, and lifted up onto the table, as several warlords pushed them aside to begin drinking their fill. 'Dirt' winged a bit, but kept his calm. The group of drunken and vile warlords, discussing their kills, their campaigns, and their adventurers were soon joined by a boisterous voice of Kylan Bignose who slammed the doors wide open and entered. "Ya petty lot, me hearties, ya would dare start a grand ol' party without ol' Kylan, eh! Slaves, bring out food an' drink! Nevermind the drink, just bring out me best food, eh!"

'Mud' and Yala looked to Markem who nodded at him to fulfill the fat weasel's request, and the boisterous creature bounded towards two of Markem's most powerful and minor allies. One was a clever and upcoming warlord, a stout named Jakker, the other was an opportunistic slaver and pine marten named Resker. "Jakker, Resker me friends an' allies, haven't seen ya in what already feels like ages! How's yer empire builden?"

Both warlord turned to Kylan and were rather nervous as the friendly and dumb weasel broke the usual code of conduct between the paranoid vermin leaders. Markem thought he had to stop being shocked with how 'charismatic' Kylan was, as he talked and joked with the two warlords, all while promoting his own little 'empire' in Jusbrag. No creature could deny how much Jusbrag had expanded under Kylan, going from a minor cancerous stain in the drylands to an active threat to both Mossflower and Noonvale.

New sets of warlords began to arrive into the halls, in which Markem heard Hazul Leffer's calm and collected voice, peeling away at a group of enthralled rats who kept close to him as the zealot strode into the hall. The rats next to him were the Bloodrack siblings, a group of northern warlords who wore a distinctive set of red tattoos across their bodies. The siblings were gang leaders, chiefs, and warlords all as they listened intently to the sorcerer's words. "As I was saying, the seasons are merciful to those down here in Mossflower, which is why it would be prudent if your tribes and hordes united under a unified banner. My own horde runs itself not by me alone, but a council led by me, my brother, and other captains. You would be amazed, young Bloodracks, how much we have achieved in these past few years."

The Bloodracks were utterly beside themselves, always fighting either a foreign warlord, some woodlander village, or themselves. They had been the children of a mighty conqueror who divided up the lands of their tribe between his children, and the four of them listened intently to Hazul's words as if he were their shamans.

Once both were settled, Markem arose to speak. "Friends, comrades, an' fellows. Ya all gather here fer one purpose, an' that is our campaign fer Mossflower. However, before we march, I'd like to go over our plans, so please. . .ummm. . .ehhh. . ." Markem was at a loss for words at first, unsure if he should have had the meeting in the main hall or in his office. Hazul saved him of his embarrassment "We should head toward your office, this hall don't got the echo enough to hear, Markem."

"Agreed. Come, we got much to discuss an' not a lot of time to do it in."
_

Olda Rivercross entered into the main room of the keep with her son Kelp. Olda nearly bumped into Sheera, the gray rattess scolded her as Olda moved to the side. While an otter and larger then her, Olda had every right to fear the fearsome rat and bowed her head to her presence, and her son following suit. Sheera scoffed "Yer late, be so again an' consider yerself and yer brood put in the stone pit, sea dog."

"I am sorry mam, we had difficulties with the traffic in the fort." Olda tried to save some grace, but Sheera would have none of it. "I need to pick up me own meat and vegetables, just get to work. An keep yer brood away from me pups, is that understood?"

Olda nodded in agreement as the rattess went off. Once she turned to the great hall itself, she was shocked to see it in such a mess. 'Mud' and Yala were busy scrubbing away at stains, constantly looking back towards a further end of the hall. Olda went to work immediately while her son began to scrub a bit away. Kelp was disgusted as he took a rag to some warlord's blackish spit which he was wiping up with the cloth, when he heard a whisper from the corner. Kelp looked up and smiled to see Mard and Maiz looking back at him, beckoning him to abandon his duties and come with them, clearly wanting to play another game. Kelp looked around and escaped while the group was working away, following the two rat children "Keep up, Kelp! Ma be gone, an' I wanted to show ya me room!" Mard yelped with excitement.

Mard was in childish excitement to show off his room to the young otter, to show him all the cool things. Mard and Maiz slept together in two separate beds, with two parts of the room separate between the older Mard and the younger Maiz. Mard's side of the room had some wooden weapons and a toy chest full of old board games, while Maiz's side of the room had a rat doll placed on her bed with a small and personal potted plant which she lorded over. Even before Kelp and his mother ended up as slaves, he had no such room or collection of toys. Mard invited the young otter to play a game with him and Maiz on the floor of the room, with Mard being rather proud to show off to someone since the other warlord's children were already back in their own camps by now.

"Ma doesn't like the others below commin on up, so yer the first to actually see me room. Well, of me own age. Ya know what I mean."

Kelp smiled "Certainly bigger in me room before me and Ma came here, dat be fer certain Mard."

Maiz chuckled "How big was yer room, Kelp?"

Kelp's smile faltered a little "Currently, or before?"

Maiz looked at him curiously "Whacha mean 'currently er befer'? Ya gotta room, right?"

"I do, well when me an' ma were out dat der way, we lived in a hut wit me pa. Now though, I share me room wit a bunch of der others down below, I do, an' I don't got any toys or anythin."

"Aweful I says!" Mard commented "How you be without a toy, here ya sea dog." Mard was quite willing to give Kelp one of his older toys without question or trade, a small wooden figurine which Kelp played with his hands with and smiled at "Thank, Mard."

Mard shook his head "How ya got a room when yer live like dat, I got no clues why. Sounds miserable it does. Maybe Pa would say somethings to it."

Kelp held his mouth shut, and perked up an odd request "Hey, speaking of yer pa. Whatcha think he talken to those vermin in der uffice for? Ya got any clues?"

Mard and Maiz smiled "We got somethings better! Come on, we'll show ya!"

Kelp was shown a small peep hole in the side of the wall, and the two rats unlatched it to reveal a dusty and dark corridor for a single beast to walk through. Some illumination came from small drill holes throughout, with all manner of small holes from illuminated corridors. Kelp looked about with some amazement as Mard remarked proudly "That big ol' ferret thinks he be smart, but I heard em' once and found de's halls. I sometimes like to listen to Pa when he thinks he be alone. Wanna hear what those ol' boring beasts be talken about?"

Kelp feigned interest, wanting to more go about playing with Mard and Maiz with their toys, but the need to see himself and his mother free outweighed his wants. "I sure do."
_

It wasn't as dark as Kelp thought it would be, although he did have to admit he was a bit scared of the dark around him. The 3 younger children ended up in a spot facing a farther end of the wall with pitch blackness, and a trailing voice coming from the walls. Kelp listened intently as Mard gave him a stern warning "We ain't suppose to be back here, Kelp, so don't be yellen or anythin. Ma would tan us if she discovered dis." Kelp agreed, keeping silent as he listened on into the room, a captive audience as Markem and his fellow warlords discussed the coming events.

Markem had decided to not sit at his desk, and grabbed his own chair and sat it across and close to the warlords who had all bunched up in his office, offering a chair to those who wished to sit. After a short scuffle between Daskom Bloodrack and Resker, it was the rat who was able to sit comfortably. Markem awkwardly realized he was sitting, facing a bunch of standing warlords and arose. It was clear to most warlords how despite his many years of experience, Markem was still a lot like a meek hordebeast, the common grunt often had a bad habit of wanting to say something, but not wanting to look the other warlords in the eye when he said it. His mannerisms may have been awkward, but he spoke with a great deal of authority and mutual brotherhood.

"Mossflower be a big country, mates. It is a big country full of woodlanders an' der Long Patrol folk. Our army may not be as big as Kasg the Craven's, but we got numbers on our side, an' decent supplies. Me tributaries will work to collect what we can in terms of food, but we will rely mostly on our scavengers an' raids to refuel our supply wagons. However, I did not call you all on here solely fer tactics alone, but to discuss with ya what the Great Vermin Band means."

The other warlords looked to Markem a bit as awkward as he had towards them "Ya made it quite clear when we came fer yer announcement, Markem. We all swore to yer cause, ya got the army, the supply, an' brains to take on Mossflower. We are here to conquer fer ourselves."

Markem shook his head in disappointment "Not fer ourselves, but fer our people. I will make this as clear as the sun brings light. I will not tell you how to run yer own hordes, for yer vermin follow you quite gladly and dumbly. However, I will ask ya lot to hear me out on this. We are going to Mossflower as conquerors, an' we cannot simply lay aside issues that are gonna crop up. The way we all run our hordes are very different, extremely so in some cases. I will be asken ya all to put forward some. . .changes on me behalf as we move forward."

"Changes?" Resker said a bit concerned.

"Aye. Ya know how I treat me vermin, wit softness as most of ya would say behind me back, an' don't pretend ya don't. From here on out, conscription of vermin in prohibited as we march into Mossflower, ya are to offer them employment an' vittles as I have done, not smashing up der homes an' livelihoods. Don't matter if ya think they be good warriors or skilled craftsbeasts or not, ya are to leave em' alone even if ya need to reinforce yer own hordes."

Yusgom Bloodrack, oldest and informal leader of the Bloodrack dynasty, shot up "This is insane, Markem. How do ya suspect me northern army to reinforce if we cannot even take in new soldiers!"

Hazul calmed the older red rat down "Listen to Markem, good Yusgom. The spirits says the brown rat is wise in his words and I took his advice as well. I have allowed settlement of non-rats in my lands, it is not by force Markem asks, but for the good of this campaign. The spirits will look unkindly on us as we march into Mossflower as common tyrants. We must show we are more than just a collection of hordes coming to destroy their homes, but as builders and makers of new homes for ourselves, our hordes, and those more native to this land."

There was some nods in the room to this as Markem continued. "On the matter of the woodlanders, our dearly beloved cousins an' work beasts, I will ask ya to. . .reconsider takin dem on as slaves while on campaign, unless me own taskmaster Gutan says otherwise. Like I be sayin, we are here as conquerors, not a pack of degenerates who have come to rob em' of their lives."

Resker spoke up, a bit angry "How can ya consider that, Markem. Me own horde needs slaves to build up me settlement an' run me farms! I didn't come with me horde all the way here solely just to give ya a new home."

Kylan slapped Resker's back "Me matey, ya will get plenty of opportunities fer slaves an' more so! In fact, ya would not believe how healthy an' prosperous Markem's horde as been compared to all of our's own! Markem may be a softie to his slaves, but maybe he gots a point, his work beasts be healthier an' stronger den any of yer lot can even provide! I took up Markem's advice, an ya should too. Besides, always good to try somethin new, right Resker?"

Resker wasn't sure, but he relented "Oh fine. What will we do with them, Markem?"

"Leave em' alone fer now, an' make em tributaries. Dey will do the same work, without us looking over der shoulder all the time. We protect em' from other troubles, an' in return, we get whats we want. I am not asken ya to give up slavery, only to consider them as beasts rather then cogs. I got plenty of slaves in me own horde, an' I'd like to see most of ya adopt the system I set in place."

Resker thought it over and reluctantly agreed "Fine den, but don't think we be happy about it, Markem."

Markem could see the room filled with some regrets as the warlords now feel being dragged into this. Markem spoke up to them, in a cheery mood "Me friends an' fellows, I am not asken ya out me own demands, but fer the good of our peoples an' to think of it fer yerselves. I ask ya not to conscript because not just fer the vermin's own sake, but it makes us look good in de eyes of others, an' a willen warrior be more valuable then fodder if we can call be in agreement on that. As fer the slaves, I ask ya to leave em' alone because we got enoughs as it is, an are likely to get more from battles an' sieges. Too many of em' bein sent back to our forts will put em' at risk, all while wasting precious vermin lives on trying to make some poor beast miserable. I want a work beast to be working, not to start builden a shiv behind our backs an' ready to plunge into their taskmaster's throat while we are all battling the Long Patrol."

There was an agreement throughout the room, as Kylan and Hazul showed their smiles as the vermin warlords mumbled to themselves and their closer allies. Many could not disagree with Markem, his horde had been overly successful so far, and the diligent rat never truly rested. The warlords agreed as Markem began to discuss the coming tactics, all while tiny eyes and ears watched.

Kelp felt bored, although Mard was enarmored even though neither particularly understood what was happening or being said. Kelp felt bored enough to nudge his two friends, and both went back to Mard's room to play. Whatever information Kelp had got, he hoped Mrs. White would be impressed enough to keep her word.
_

The three youngsters were giving themselves a self tour of the keep, and ignorantly turned the wrong corner and towards the office room of Markem. Standing at the door was the bored looking 'Dirt' who noticed the three walking casually about. The bodyguard looked down at them, giving them a weak smile "Mard, Maiz. Ummm. . .youngster. You should move yourselves along, your pa be a bit busy."

"Oh, we know, 'Dirt'" Mard smiled. Mard came up to him "You know when they will be done? We be given me mate Kelp here dat thing ya called a 'tour' or whatevers it be called. I wanted to go to Scarl's office, but he always has it locked fer some reason."

'Dirt' was about to remind the adventurous young rat of why he should never go into Scarl's formal office, but he heard a hellish patter of feet come down the hall. 'Mud' looked wide eyed and relieved as he came up to the three and wiped sweat from his head. "Oh! There you are! Kelp is it? Where the. . . .Oh." 'Mud' realized and waved at Mard and Maiz. Kelp looked worried himself, but 'Mud' was just happy he looked healthy and safe. 'Mud'quickly realized what happened, blurting out an entire story "When I saw you missing, your mum looked worried and sick. Told her you were in the kitchens helping, and ive been looking all over for you! Come on, before Sheera notices."

Mard spoke up "Oh come on, 'Mud', we were just playing. Can't we have a couple more minutes, pleeease?"

"Sorry, youngster, but your mum made it quite clear. Maybe when she is gone again for some time. Besides, Kelp and I have a lot of work to do. Mostly fabricating that kitchen story."

Maiz then also spoke up, if a bit ignorantly "I don't gettet. Why he gotta work an' we don't?"

Kelp answered sadly "Cause I'm a work beast."

"What makes ya say dat, pa says all manner of think about de's 'work beasts' an 'slave beasts', but I ya don't look like dat I thinks."

Kelp held up the rope collar on his neck "The taskmaster says this makes us slaves beasts, me an ma both."

'Mud' and 'Dirt' looked at one another, unsure of how to proceed. Mard and Maiz looked a bit shocked, having never considered it before. Mard looked up as 'Dirt' and in particular at the rope which was tied to his neck. 'Dirt' was a creature that Mard looked up to, a warrior who had been nothing but friendly to him, and even would teach him a couple little tricks every once in a while.

Mard looked to 'Mud' next "'Mud', why dey make ye work beasts? Can't ya just try to get to be normal beasts? I neva seen a rat be a work beast I suppose."

It was a question which no creature alive in that keep could have answered truthfully to Mard. 'Mud' gave a weak smile, hiding away the uncomfortable truth of vermin tyranny which surrounded the young and impressionable rat. It tore at 'Mud's' heart that such a youngster could not see as his father had. He could only image what kind of beast both Mard and Maiz would grow up to be in the coming new world Markem had planned for them all, and he could not but dread it. 'Mud' knelt down "I don't know all the answers, young Mard. Nor do I know why yer father or anyone else acts or does the things they do. I mean, we don't like being slave beasts, as our good friend Kelp could say. We don't like worken all day, even. Yet we do it until we are one day freed. I don't know why vermin are vermin, an' woodlander be woodlander. It just be the way the world is. Now come you three, lets not dwell on such things, lets go to the kitchens an' get some treats, why don't we?"

The three perked up in excitement, and readily were making down the hallways towards the kitchens. Once out of sight once again 'Dirt' commented to his brother "Glad ya left out the worse details, Dak."

"I dread the day when Markem or Sheera tells em how the way their world works, Jan. If they knew how we used to live, or what Markem did to our parents, or how that poor young otter lives. . .I don't think no word would comfort em."


Luzgot arrived a bit later into the day, his large horde streaking behind him as he marched at the head of his army towards Gholand. Luzgot's captains Gazla Cheesethief and Snackfur held his true army in place, which now paled to the rest of the army of trained Luzland vermin who marched beside them with Markem's captains leading them. Luzgot was in a very foul mood, his one and only personal servant could not keep up with him as the mole Dannek mostly followed meekly behind. As the horde approached Gholand, Luzgot stopped at a foot of a hill, utterly shocked to see the number of the vermin having already set up outside. It was a truly massive horde, with the white sea of cloth tents surrounding the high wooden palisades of the vermin fortress. The keep of Gholand looked tiny to the massive horde gathered, which gave the rat warlord anxiety. How Markem fed, clothed, and kept the horde in line without constant desertion. However, as his horde was making its way out of the forest clearing to pitch their tents, another host was arriving just on time.

Parb's paraquin was unmistakable, as her smaller but more ornate host of vermin slowly made their way down into Gholand's clearing nearby, nearly assembling on accident with Luzgot's own. Parb's vermin were organized and disciplined, being paw picked from their experience to have the honor of serving as Great Marsh's illustrious garrison. Parb's vermin soldiers were building up her pavilion as Parb exited her paraquin to look around, occasionally sipping from her favorite goblet. Her own personal servant kept close to her side, as Luzgot noticed she lacked her brother. This made the warlord smile widely in private, knowing that Garzlo's dark machinations went well. Luzgot was at first suspicious of Garzlo's insistent plan to use Goba to betray Parb once they were done with Markem, but Luzgot could see only a future where an obedient and loyal mink warlord bowed before him, and his sister's goblet resting firmly in his own paws.

Gazla came up her boss and commented "So boss, we gots no problem, only one died on de march here, although I wish we gould have saved em."

"Be silent. I will hear no more of that idiot fool who fell on der way here. Just another hordebeast we will replace soon enough." Luzgot frowned. Gazla spoke up a bit insulted "Boss, twas bad enough we gave away our own as work beasts to Parb, I was hoppen when'z we killed her we'd get out boys back. Now dey be dyin on der march here. I thinks we should just head back home."

"You are lucky you are me captain, or I'd have had you beheaded for that comment. I cannot stand weakness in me horde, especially for old fools and bunglers. Especially not now. You have yer orders, an' keep quiet. That Scarl fellow is still talken with the double agent of his."

"I thought he was taken some time to relieve himself?"

"They both did at the same time, nitwit."

"Why'd they talk while they ar-" Gazla was smacked over the side of the head. She went about doing as ordered, getting the vermin into the camp. Luzgot looked over Gholand, grunting with disapproval. Stupid Markem, with his stupid looking fort! Softie he be, useless an' not knowing his true place. I'll show him soon enough, an' when I do, he'll regret ever crossing my path!
_

Scarl was pulling up his pants and shaking himself off from the long march. He did not see Gholand yet, but he knew it laid not far past the line of trees and was relieved to be home. Kudgel, who was nearby and also pulling up his pants, pushed into Scarl's paw a note. It was in Dannek's insane mole speech, although a bit improved with Kudgel's help. Scarl looked it over, less than impressed, but thankful to have a mole inside Luzgot's inner circle. "Well, he ain't talken about a dream at least, but Luzgot has been talking a bit more to his captains about something. Sadly, the mole ain't invited or is too busy serving him to get somewhere with it."

Kudgel shrugged "I don't think Luzgot be tame, he clearly is up to something an' frankly it disturbs me. Ya know where Skabit is?"

"Back in Luzland, turned him around to keep an' eye on Garzlo. Gotta remember, Garzlo be the real brains behind Luzgot, despite his demeanor. Although, I am a little concerned. Didn't see any sign of a lab while we were there."

"Lab?"

"Aye. The poison that Luzgot tried to use on Markem? That could only be produced with care. Poison be a tricky business, an' if you don't know what yer doin, it can become blatantly obvious of yer intention, or just give yer victim some really uncomfortable stomach aches. There be no inbetween. Luzgot had no plants in storage for poison, which means he got it. . .or bought it from outside help. Garzlo we know was collectin plants, the toxic kind."

"So ya think it was brewed elsewhere?"

"Had to be." Scarl shook his head "However, there aren't many in Mossflower with that knowledge. Not unless Luzgot knows an alchemist."

"What about one of the other warlords, maybe they dabble in poisons?"

"Doubtful. Kylan is a mason and an' idiot. Hazul an his fox seer maybe knows how to brew it, but they are religiously inclined to not use toxins if they can avoid it. Hazul is a zealot mind ya, but we won't rule him out yet. Parb. . .maybe. I know frankly little about her, an she had always kept to herself. All attempts to breach into Great Marsh is thwarted by her isolation an' distance. Others I doubt would even be interested, dey be conquering warlords, an scheme with brawn in der minds."

Kudgel shrugged "What about Pelch?"

"What about Pelch. Dat der warlord is kept alive cause of us. Besides, he be loyal as always, an' a dumb brute at that. We'll figure out this mystery later, fer now lets go inside an' grab some grub. Ya keep an eye on Luzgot fer now, you an' Dannek both."

Scarl headed towards Gholand, a smile crept across his face, waiting to see Markem and his favorite hidden office once again.
_

Luzgot was making his way into Gholand to meet Markem, but dreaded every step he took. His horde was pitching their camp outside, and was being commanded around by his captains which he had very little if any respect for. Luzgot was flanked by Kudgel and several other guards, while the rat warlord looked about Gholand with utter contempt. The guards at the gate humiliated him, inspecting him and his guards of any poisons or hidden weapons. Scarl could enter Gholand with ease, going on ahead of Luzgot and giving the rat a rare sense of freedom, but still the foul creature felt in a foreign world. Luzgot hated softness, he looked around and saw it creep up like a tumor. He could appreciate vermin doing their work without the watchful eyes of their captains, but he hated the fact these vermin were doing their work for themselves and their own betterment. Luzgot saw this as abominable. They should work for the betterment of their chief, not derselfs! What a bunch of bumpkins and cripples. Living alongside der own families. What kind of warlord allows such things to be.

Luzgot would occasionally looked at slaves, working alongside their vermin masters as if they were equals. Most were less than happy to be trapped in Gholand as laborers, but most looked well fed and lacking the soullessness that Luzgot was used to. None of them, except for a few, bore beating or whip marks. Luzgot found this egregious, and cringed beneath the visor of his spiked helm. Luzgot was walking through Gholand, when he looked about with increasing disgust. As he was distracted, he did not notice (or care to notice) two figures who were walking back to the slave quarter.

Olda was harshly gripping the paw of her son Kelp as she walked fast and furious back to the slave quarter where they both lived. "Come, me chirping yung' fool. Once we are done eaten, yer gonna take a good long bath ya will!"

"Ma, I'm not very hungry. Dat der rat be a terrible cook." Kelp gave a dramatic flurl of his tongue in disgust. Olda scoffed in agreement, she didn't particularly look forward to the bland and cheap scraps that awaited her to be made into a stew. "Well, still, ya gotta eat me good Kelp. Come now, an-ahhggg!"

Olda bumped into Luzgot and was shoved to the ground. The rat was lightly brushed to the side, but angrily veered around to look at the slave. Olda cursed her luck, the second time staring into the eyes of the vile warlord she had bumped into. Luzgot came over "Ya dare bump into me, slave! Ya should have watched were you were goin!" Luzgot was in a sadistic mood. He came over menacingly to the downed sea otter, but Kelp came over and lifted his paws to the side, fearfully calling out "Don't hurt me ma!"

The attention of the situation drew the eyes and ears of those around them. Slaves looked on helplessly, while vermin looked on intrigued. Kelp hoped others would see such injustice and come to his defense, but that was shattered quickly when Luzgot turned his attention to him and grabbed him by the rope collar. "Oh, brave an' spirited eh!"

"No! Please, sir! We did not mean it!" Olda cried out. She was given a swift kick by one of Luzgot's vermin guards and kept down. Luzgot was about to lay into them both until a voice called out from the crowd. Luzgot turned to see an angry gray rat looking back at him with her own guards quickly coming around. Sheera approached Luzgot as the rat warlord did put distance between himself and her. He did not want to meet Markem in poor spirits as Sheera stood between Olda and Luzgot. Kelp crept to his mother's side, watching the exchange between the two.

"I see yer husband's softness rubs off on ya as well, rattess."

"Consider yerself lucky Luzgot that Markem is still here, or i'd have ya thrown on a pike." Sheera retorted. Luzgot scoffed, believing her sort of. Luzgot crept close, Luzgot looking her over with a greedy eye "Yer still quite a young lass, maybe ya northerners just look purdy. It be too bad ya made yer nest wit Markem instead of me, eh? Have ya ever considered sleepen in the same bed as yer father's murderer?"

Sheera scolded him "Ya speak of me pa an' Markem again, Luzgot, an I-"

"Ya will kill me in some far flung and cruel way. I've heard it the last few times." Luzgot chuckled "Just so ya know, I ain't tame, but I am not without me respect fer your husband. Although, I still don't understand why he treats de's lesser beasts so well. If they'd been in my horde, they'd know their proper place an' be more diligent where dey walk."

"Yer horde." Sheera laughed cruelly "Yer horde, a gang of fools an' idiots all. Consider yerself lucky ya are fodder at all. I value the weakest cripple here den any of yer lot, or yerself ya poisoner."

Luzgot squirmed a bit and shook his head in anger, and waltzed off. Kudgel, who had been silently observing mostly, was relieved that such an event did not spiral out of control. Once Sheera could see the creature climbing up the stairs, she turned to Olda and helped her get back up on her feet. Olda looked a bit surprised by the show of kindness, but was quickly put down in disappointment as Sheera scolded her "Ya should have been looken where ya were goin, ya dumb sea dog. Ya can make up for this by helpen me find an' get some vittles. Come along, an' keep close, or there I. . I will. . ." Sheera was disturbed how much she ended her sentences with threats of death, something which Luzgot seemed right about. Luzgot being right about something, now dat be a terrible thing indeed.

Olda was about to say something but was silenced by the rattess "Me brother would prefer a good meal, an' if ya keep yer self and yer brat silent, you'll get the good scraps."

Olda held her head down in defeat "Yes, mam."

Kelp was dragged along once again, but his eyes turned to the slave quarter, unsure of how to relay his new found information back to Mrs. White.
_

Luzgot entered the main hall, with Markem and Jakker in a deep conversation. Resker and Kylan were also in a discussion at the nearby table, and Hazul was drinking with the Bloodrack siblings. One of the warlords, Lusket, called out "Ah, der be a guest of honor! Luzgot, Warlord of Luzland!" The call out of his name filled Luzgot with some joy as he strode into the room in his full armor. Luzgot came up to Markem and gave a friendly nod to him, although from what it looked like to others, it was the fakest and dramatic show they had seen. Jakker nearly bursted out laughing, much to Luzgot's annoyance as Markem gave a humble bow back. 'Dirt' kept close to Markem normally, but he crept closer to the rat especially with Luzgot around.

"Me horde has arrived, as ya requested Markem Brownnose." Luzgot began "Haven't seen dis many vermin in one place since the days of Kasg. Ya must be mightily proud, eh?"

Jakker smiled and spoke before Markem "Mightily proud indeed, nearly wasn't to even be had ya succeeded a week ago in killing dis here ol' rat, eh!"

Markem perked up from the morbid joke "I'd have suggested a sniper like the Long Patrol, ya might even had a chance, mate."

Luzgot felt humiliation, but kept his composure to the best of his ability. He saw the pathetic 'peers' around him for what they truly were, unlike him who was born to rule. Jakker and Resker both were newer warlords who built their hordes from inexperience and a need to climb out of their days as common bandit chiefs. The Bloodrack rats were little more then squabbling children who did not learn to simply kill one another to claim what was rightfully theirs. Hazul was a pumped up shaman who squandered everything that was given to him, and Kylan was a traitorous captain pretending to be important. Luzgot hated Markem most of all, and didn't see a warlord, but a silver tongued common brute. Luzgot hated to call him a warlord, a soft and common brat who relied on the strength of a woodlander slave to save him, unlike himself. Luzgot however would laugh, laugh for now at the joke of his failures.

"Glad to see ya in high spirits, Luzgot." Markem extended his paw to shake his. Luzgot paused, but relented and shook it like a brother's. Luzgot responded in kind "I am, fer the most part, although now that I am here, I what our plan was. Will we convene war council?"

"We already did, mate." Lusket noted "However, I believe Markem will be relaying de's plans personally to all the warlords."

"I will. Come Luzgot, to me office. We had some things to discuss."

Luzgot went along, his bodyguard Kudgel following behind and across from 'Dirt' who was quick to recognize him as one of Scarl's minions. Kudgel had been partly looking around for Scarl, surprised not to see him watching already from some corner of the room. Once Luzgot and Markem were inside the office, Luzgot and Markem sat with their bodyguards looking over them both. Markem began relaying his plans.

"First an' foremost, Luzgot, we will be campaigning against Fort Tussock first an' foremost. Tussock is the only major settlement in eastern Mossflower which hasn't fallen to a warlord yet, and without host as large as it is, we will need to reconcile our holdings. Each warlord will be assigned to a general area to conquer and bring under our control, but me own horde, yers, and Kylan's are going to lead the main assault and siege of Tussock which we will march to. The Hares will see us coming, an' likely already know our movements, which is why they reinforced der garrisons. Hazul will lead the main effort to knock down de's outposts and der barracks along the river Moss, capturing der villages an towns as tributaries."

Luzgot gave Markem an odd expression "Aren't we gonna raid der towns fer supplies an' slaves?"

"No actually, only fer some maybe, but not a good amount of em. In fact, I am putting any stop to conscription an' enslavement unless I order it."

Luzgot nearly flew into a rage "Yer barring us from reinforcing our own hordes! What dumb foolery is this, Markem!"

"It ain't foolery, its practical. Or whatever the woodlanders would say it is. We'll be dividing up der land between Jakker and Resker who will be moving der hordes into the lands we just conquered, an' dey will be bring our message to our people. We are here to build an' rule, not to burn an' pillage."

"How are we gonna reinforce our hordes, den? With Woodlanders perhaps?"

Markem shrugged "Nay, we are just gonna treat the vermin rightly. To the tribes we'll offer land, to mercenaries we'll offer all dat silver I get from Parb. To the common creatures in der holes, I'll offer em' homes an' lands to farm."

"Lands to farm?!" Luzgot laughed out loud "You even know what der beasts want? Ya think if they wanted farmland, or to work like dem woodlanders are suppose to, they'd be trudging up dirt to do so or joining der villages like meek work beasts here? No, de's idiots want to own land an' have it run by slaves, dey do. Dey want to serve us so we'll provide em wit food an' goods. Yer an idiot if you think its because they want to work fer a living, dey want to fight for a living. If we are truly equals, Markem, den I will be doin what me Pa used to do. We'll burn down those communities an' hamlets, take their things fer ourselves, an' take what we needs."

"Is that what ya think?" Markem said calmly. Luzgot scoffed "Of course, what else could it be."

"Have ya ever considered fer even a moment that none of the vermin want dis life, that we are forced into it by old an' stupid oafs like ya? Have ya ever considered why vermin go to sea, escaping warlords like us, to get der families away from a life of murder and exhaustion that ya got planned fer all beasts? Ya know why every woodlander distrusts us rats? Is it because dey dink we will rob em, murder em fer sport or game, or maybe even kidnap em an' beat em into submission to bend an' serve us till their days grow short? No Luzgot, I never wanted any of dis, but yet here I am. I'd trade all that I had built to live a nice an' peaceful life in some farm, if I even knew how to farm, wit me family an' servants. That is the future I am gonna build here, Luzgot, a place fer me people to settle. Fer our people, not just so they can bend down to idiotic tyrants like ya."

"The real idiot is ya, Markem." Luzgot retorted "Do you really think the common wretch wants a better life? They want an' easy life, an' dats what I am gonna give em in Luzland. Me mates an' crew of murderers, bunglers, an' bandits exist to serve better beasts like meself. If ya knew yer place, ya would understand one simple truth. Yer builden a lie. A terrible lie that is goin to get all these vermin killed, including yerself. You think de's idiot march to war for the privilege of farming der own lands, an making things wit der own paws? Far from it, dey march cause ya order em' to. You are der boss, an' a soft one at dat."

Markem and Luzgot could have gone on for hours, but Markem sighed and let out his demands "You will do as I ask, Luzgot, or der will be consequences. You will not destroy the woodlander villages, an' ya won't conscript. Got it?"

"As you order. . .chief." Luzgot got up and went off, followed by his bodyguard. Markem sat in his office and watched them leave. Once they had left, Markem pounded his table and scratched it harshly in anger. It gave 'Dirt' a small jump. He could see Markem was upset, but the rat calmed himself as he comfortably sat in his chair. It's going to be a long, long day.


Scarl did not stay in his hidden office for long, as he sat thinking of what kind of report he would give to his chief. Scarl was alone for now, smiling to himself as he thought of his massive web of intrigue which extended ever forward. Skabit would send him warning if Garzlo ever got out of line, Kudgel and Dannek would keep a vigilant eye on Luzgot, and all seemed well. Scarl looked over his crude map of Mossflower, slightly improved and still looking very cursed. All manner of features were out of place, but it wouldn't matter, for soon he would see Markem's armies washing over it like a flood. The brown banner of the horde would fly over every settlement, and he would have done it all from small and cramped offices such as the one he sat in now. He would mock all the warlords who tried before him; Cluny the Scourge, Swartt Sixclaw, General Ironbeak, and so many more legends he had heard of around campfires and sung in vermin ballads. They had brought great brawn, but had been torn asunder by one fool means or another, but not him. Scarl did not desire the fame, he needed no creature to know how deep the rabbit hole he had dug. If he and Markem succeeded, he would soon be in a position to have an ear to all of Mossflower, all those small and troubled secrets would be his to discover. I will paint the world in the color brown, I will. Mossflower is but the beginning to a great and terrible empire from which I will run like a puppet.

Scarl gathered up his reports and snuck outside to enjoy the fresh air. As he walked about Gholand, he spotted Sheera walking about, followed by a sea otter carrying a basket of goods which she sadly looked down at. Following that otter was her young offspring who trudged behind, carrying a couple of cabbages. Scarl looked on from the alley, not wishing to get near Sheera at first, but he noticed something odd. The youngster looked worried, constantly looking back from them, as if something followed him. Scarl's curiosity got the better of him and followed behind Sheera and her servants. Kelp didn't seem to notice Scarl, who looked much like any other vermin in Gholand, and would anxiously look behind him often. Silently, the two otters would stand still as Sheera argued and bickered with several rations officers over the food.

"What'ya mean dis is fer the army? Cannot the wife of Markem get fresher parsnips? What about some bird at least?"

"Mam, please! There be no more bird left! We ordered what we could, especially from the hunters, but dey say der spent. We don't even gots fish."

"Oh fine!" Sheera took a look at one of less than savory vegetables and slammed it into the basket, which was nearly lost on the sea otter widow. Olda was shocked how such a creature smaller than her could have so much strength, let alone have such a terrifying aura. As Sheera was examining some of the vegetables, Scarl appeared next to her, sliding into her view much to her sudden surprise. In response, and out of instinct, she smacked at Scarl who ducked out of the way. "Hey, hey! It be just me, ya rattess ghoul! I ain't an enemy!"

"Sneak up on me again, Scarl, an' see what happens to yer face! By the seasons ya frightened me!"

"I apologize fer dat, mam. I have just returned from Luzland meself, so it be good to see a fri-"

"Why haven't ya seen Markem, an' why ya be bothering me?" Sheera interrupted by the ferret who smiled dumbly at her. Scarl was always surprised how observant Sheera was, even though much of her energy was spent being angry at petty things. Scarl relented to tell her the truth "Enjoyin the fresh air, after a short time in Luzland, I'd prefer to be here, me young lass."

"Young lass indeed, yer words are about as honied as Luzgot's is." Sheera grievously gave Scarl a deathly look "I swear, I should be suspicious of ya fer even thinkin of protecting that wretch at all. I have a mind to tell Markem to just impale him an' be done with it."

"Believe me, Luzgot be more useful then he lets on. His influence amongst the coastal warlords is needed fer good reason."

"I care not, he tried to have me husband killed. What should I think about dat?"

Scarl didn't really have an answer, but still gave his faked smile "Think of it this way, Sheera. If Markem an' I killed every warlord we came across fer trying to backstab us or kill us, wher'd we be now? Remember when the Bloodracks sent a wayward champion to challenge Markem all dem seasons ago, or when Resker tried to stab Markem in the chest during a friendly greeting when dey first met? I stop dem attempts den, an' molded em into our best allies. Dey be vermin as Luzgot is, but we don't kill em fer good reason. Der vermin an' captains respect em, an' owe der lives to em. Luzgot can fall on his own sword an' we will come out on top fer it, an' I don't need to relay me accomplishments of all der times I saved Markem's life. Ya just to have a. . .what does Hazul call it? Faith? Aye, faith."

"Faith indeed." Sheera mocked. "I imagine yer going up to see Markem soon den?"

"Oh yes, I will, but not after I have a little walk." Scarl turned his eyes slightly at Kelp who was continuously looking over his shoulder with worry. He turned back to attention, not really paying much mind or attention. Scarl was still curious, and went out into Gholand once again on a small walk.
_

Danza was careful, extra careful as always as she made a habit of not being seen. Her slinky form could quickly pull up into the streets, and she could quickly abandon her nice white hood in favor of a common and dirty one. The mink was hiding well, and she was joined by a young weasel orphan as they watched from an alley. Danza looked around, seeing Sheera leading on Olda and her son Kelp. Danza' most prized spy could not easily escape, an issue with slave children she often had to get around with her other young minions. She whispered into the young weasel's ear "Ya know what to do, me pretty. Good vittles be in it fer ya if you can relay it all back to me. Just be sure ya get it all down, an' stay hidden. If ya get caught, well. . .you know what happens."

The young weasel gulped and climbed out from underneath a table and joined Gholand's crowds. He had few worries as Danza had been watching ever since Olda began to make her rounds. She was confident that her spy overheard something, something she could present to her mistress. She watched like a hawk from underneath tables, from the corner of barrels, and even in the crowd itself.

The young weasel passed by as Kelp looked over his shoulder, fearfully watching the young weasel cautiously approach. Sheera did not stop moving much as the young weasel had a plan. He delayed going over to his target and instead went over to another group of youngsters, another set of minions of 'Mrs. White'. The young weasel commanded them and soon they went to work. The youngsters pretended to play and bother Sheera, and soon resorted to calling her names and taunting her. One of the young rats pulled on Olda's tail, much to her discomfort. The attack was sudden, but not brief, as the young Weasel pulled Kelp away and into a shadowy alley as Sheera and Olda swiped at the youngsters tormenting them, not noticing Kelp was pulled away.

"Mrs. White sent me, sea dog. Tell me what ya know, an quick like."

Kelp spilled the beans of Markem's stratagems from what he could hear, and of the demands of the other warlords. The weasel was surprised and happy to learn of the secret crevices in Gholand's keep as he smiled greedily. The younger weasel pushed aside Kelp. "Ya will tell Mrs. White it was me who discovered it, right?"

"She already knows, now do what ya want, I'm gonna go get me vittles!"

Kelp sighed, and went to go rejoin his mother. As Kelp rejoined his mother, a smile crept across his face, giving a nod to the other tormentors who were quick to scatter. Sheera complained openly "Nasty cretans! I'll have your hides if I catch you! Guards! Do something, you miserable clauds!"

The guards were unsure of what to do, some did give chase but bumped into crowds as the children scattered back into the masses of Gholand. The young weasel snuck back towards Danza who awaited patiently and was told everything which Kelp had relayed. Danza looked on impressed and gave a vicious grin. She passed the young weasel a treat as she crept off back through the crowds of vermin with her information.

Yet, as Sheera turned back towards the keep, a ferret walked close behind. Scarl had overheard all what Kelp had told the youngster, a mixture of impressed and disappointed. His suspicions had been confirmed, watching as the groups of mixed children and orphans scattered around. As Sheera was about to climb back up with Olda and Kelp behind, Scarl revealed himself "Ah, Sheera, ya should visit the tavern mer often, lass."

Sheera scoffed at the ferret "I'd rather not. . .but Scarl, I thought ya were already up der?" The rattess pointed towards the keep. Scarl smiled at her "Nay, just taking care of some quick business, Sheera. We should head on up, I got much to discuss wit yer husband."
_

Scarl walked into the halls of Gholand's keep like a shadow, the attention was more on Sheera as the warlords curried favor by speaking kindly to her. Sheera rebuffed them, often quick to point out faults. Olda and Kelp were off to the kitchens, although for the sea otter widow, this journey was a more difficult one, especially with the screaming of Rigpaw coming out from the kitchens. Scarl was not immediately recognized by any of the warlords, all except for two. Luzgot, who was sitting forlorn with Resker, gave a dismissive eye to the ferret. Unbeknownst to Scarl, Hazul Leffer also noticed the spymaster return, giving him a watchful look. Scarl was directed by the guards as to where Markem was, still sitting in his office. However, before Scarl headed towards his chief, he ran a long circle of the hallways towards the kitchens.

Kelp was helping along with his mother and the hedgehog cook Adoln, a bit happier than usual. He was humming to himself, thinking of all the things he would do when he and his mom were free of Gholand. If there was only one thing he truly regretted, it was he would miss Mard and Maiz. However, he would trade it all away just to see his mother smile once again. As Kelp was humming along to his own tune, Scarl entered the room. Kelp found it odd facing the ferret again for the third time in a day, and had not thought much of it till now. Scarl casually came up to Adoln "Markem wants some vittles, spike hog. He asked fer something cheesy."

Adoln had to think on it "I don't got anything warm prepared, but I can make a platter. I'll fetch 'Mud' an-"

"No no, that youngster will do." Scarl pointed to Kelp "Just send him into Markem's office wit der platter."

Olda partly protested "Sir, I can bring you you-"

Scarl cut her off, smiling as he did "Ya best not, ya will need to get prepared fer Pelchovmar's meal, cause dat rat has a silver spooned tongue for what Sheera wants cooked. Ya best get to it. 'Mud' an' Yala got others things to do, especially cleaning up after dem warlords in the main hall an' all. Don't worry fer yer youngster mam, Markem don't bite."

Scarl gave a friendly pat on Olda's back, although it did not comfort her. Scarl left, overhearing Adoln thinking of him poorly. "Not sure what that ferret thinks he is doin, but you best obey him. Markem doesn't have a foul temper, but you would do best to get in and get out-"

Scarl fixed himself up before entering into Markem's office, closing the door behind him with his distinctive slow and silent fiddling of the door handle. Markem was in a foul temper, but his mood almost immediately changed when he saw Scarl come on in. Markem came right over to him, patting his back and with a great deal of relief to his voice nearly sang out "By every damned season der be, I thought ya weren't going to make it today! Good to finally see ya make it Scarl." Scarl was motioned to sit in a chair opposite of the rat warlord. Markem fixed up his horned helm, and sat down to listen to Scarl tell him of his adventure. "Oh where do I even begin, mate?"

Scarl began speaking calmly "So first thing be first, mate. Luzgot be. . .kinda loyal, although his big secret will disappoint ya. He was plannen on raiding the horde's tributaries, our good an' loyal bootlickers who we been protecten. I think he be senile over how our captains treated him. I diverted his horde away from the villages, an' sent a couple of out boys to warn the tributaries. Luzgot went out wit some guards of his, an a cap'n, to scout out a village. However, dey didn't act thankfully. Me suspicions were thankfully put to rest, an I am content wit me findings."

"Sounds like a big waste of time, to be honest Scarl."

"Twas. However, I got some good out of it." Scarl was interrupted by 'Dirt' who was quick to catch on "The weasel Luzgot was dragging around, I think I know him. One of yours I take it?"

"Ya see Markem, I am tellen ya that this river dog be too smart to be a bodyguard, eh?" Scarl laughed. Markem chuckled along with him, and 'Dirt' may not have shown it, but he felt a tingle of pride in his good guess. "Aye, slave beast. Kudgel be snug wit Luzgot now, but dat ain't me only spy hanging about. Der were a slave in Luzgot's keepen, kind of like you an yer brother, 'Dirt'. A mole named Dannek. Poor, abused cretan he was, sent out a desperate plea which drew me in der first place. Offered him a way out, if he gives us good information on our ever so illustrious 'ally'."

Markem thought it over "How do ya know it will be good info, abused beasts in me experience will tell ya anything to get out of der predicament."

"I know dat as well, which is why I told em if he gives me bad info, he will have face Luzgot alone when I tell him he be me eyes an' ears."

Markem shrugged "Well, so long as Luzgot be tame, but now I best be getting ready to meet Parb. She will be with us later I suppose. I've been doing what we discussed, Scarl, getten all the warlords on board wit our ideas. Hazul an' Kylan been helping out as suspected, but I don't know much about Parb."

"No one does, an ya can't blame yerself. Every attempt to get into Great Marsh fails, but she been a busy lass I tell ya. Cause she got a decent amount of spies in our very walls."

Markem looked at Scarl with concern and confusion, his spymaster had said such a phrase so calmly and without a single inch of worry. Scarl would at times fly into a rage if he caught an enemy spy even within an inch of Gholand's walls, he was careful and delicate with every detail. "How ya know?" Markem was about to begin. However, a knock at the door quickly turned heads as Scarl spoke quietly to 'Dirt' "Open der door fer our servant, he brings snacks."

'Dirt' expected it would be 'Mud' behind the door when he opened it, but the young Kelp entered with a platter instead filled with cheese and soft bread. He struggled a little with it as Scarl uncharisterically helped him take the platter and pull it to the table. Kelp was ready to leave swiftly, but Scarl pulled on the rope on his neck which made him go stiff "Now not so fast, young serf. Stay wit us fer awhile longer, eh?"

Kelp looked mortified, and rightfully so. Markem only looked on with confusion, and so did his bodyguard. 'Dirt' closed the door to the office as Scarl took a chair and forced the young sea otter down onto it. "Now, little. . .ehhh. . .what be yer name again?"

Kelp was frozen and gulped, sweating nervously. 'Dirt' was looking down at him, heartbroken to already know what he was. Just lie, and lie well. Please. For both of our sakes! Kelp let out a terrified "K-kelp, sir."

"Now Kelp, do tell me." Scarl began "Ya wanna tell yer chief what ya overheard when ya met wit all those warlords, eh?" Scarl gave a cruel smile. Kelp's eyes widened and looked like he was about to cough and weep himself to death. Markem was beside himself, but looked down at him with pity. Scarl joked and patted his back "Don't be shy, me mate, we have no intention to harm ya at all! Come, eat an eat well, no point in bein a liar, eh?" Scarl broke off a piece of cheese and gave it to Kelp who took it in his paws, and was too terrified to know what to do with it. He looked desperately to 'Dirt', who gave his own face of desperation back. 'Dirt' knew Scarl all too well, he knew what he did behind closed doors to poor beasts and enemy spies. Scarl was happy and go-lucky now, but it wouldn't be too long before he was pulling teeth. Quite literally.

Markem spoke up first "Young to be a spy, I believe dat be one of me servant's brood. Speak quickly, youngster, an' I may just have mercy on ya."

"No need fer that, Markem, I already know who dis poor and impressionable beast works fer. Parb of Great Marsh, of course."

Markem did not believe Scarl, and chuckled at the insult to his own knowledge "Parb? Have ya lost yer mind, Scarl? What dumb beast like this would willingly work fer that wretch?"

"Well, what other warlord ya know has a mink casually wandering around Gholand? It wasn't Goba or her, so its a beast I ain't seen before. Following yer wife it was, even sent a nice gaggle of children to distract her."

Markem's face instantly reddened as he looked in anger toward Kelp. The mention of his wife nearly had the warlord rising, and Kelp dissolved into the wooden chair in fright. It took Scarl to calm him down. "Twasn't yer wife dey were after, boss. Twas, this youngster here, an der information he carried." Markem was barely calm and fiddled with his paws. Kelp was beginning to become teary eyed, something which tore at 'Dirt'. I. . .I need to do something. 'Dirt' was hoping in his mind all would come out alright, but he felt powerless in such an awkward situation.

"Okay, but how? 'Dirt', ya were outside dat door fer that meeting, ya seen this brat wandering about? Ya let him listen on in or somethin?"

Scarl again interrupted "Nay, me mate. Ya see, yer own children helped em out wit dat!"

"Explain." Markem was growing more frustrated as Scarl pointed to the walls. "Yer youngsters found me tunnels, our little secret entrances. They just simply showed em to one of me holes over der in the wall and just listened on in."

Kelp then blurted out "I be sorry! Please, I didn't mean to cause em any harm! Please don't hurt em fer me sakes!"

Scarl laughed "Ya see, regrets ever bein a spy fer Parb already, I like em."

Markem let out a deep sigh, as he looked to Kelp. "Me kids, me sweet pups be friends with ya, sea dog?" Kelp gave a slow and weak nod, and as proof took out the small figurine that Mard had gave him. Markem recognized it and took it from him. Markem's first thought was; Damn thief, I should have the wretch lashed! However, as Markem pressed the figurine in his paw, another thought came over him; Twas odd an sweet of Mard to do this, I should talk with him. I probably should lay less on this poor cretan, fer me own son's sake.

Kelp looked sad and defeated, sitting alone on an island that was his chair. Scarl nudged him "Tell us what ya know, an why ya did it. Ya wouldn't want yer ma finden out would ya? Ya think we be scary, oh boy, I'd hate to imagine what yer ma would do an' say."

Kelp knew that Scarl was right, blurting out in a weak manner what he knew. Markem and 'Dirt' listened intently, but never as much intently to the details as Scarl. Kelp told them of Mrs. White, of the promises of freedom for himself and his mother. He told them of the secret hideout all the children knew, and the consequences of his treason against them. The explanation would have been a lot shorter had it not been for Kelp begging and partly crying most of the way through. However, Markem and 'Dirt' looked on in horror when Kelp blurted out one phrase which gnawed at all of their minds "Mrs. White promised that if I told her what she wanted to know, me and Ma would go to a free place, with free beasts in a place called Great Marsh."

Scarl's smile weakened as he saw a rather interesting opportunity. He patted Kelp's back reassuringly and spoke "Well, me good lad, because ya gave us good information, I'll give ya something yer gonna wanna hear. Mrs. White wasn't offering yer mum an' you freedom. Twas a lie. True, she'd gladly take ya to Great Marsh, but do you know what it be?"

Kelp shook his head in ignorance. Markem interrupted and spoke softly and angrily "It be a mine, youngster. A place where dey chain ya up head to toe an' force ya to mine till yer days grow dark. Not a place any beast wants to end up in."

"W-what?" Kelp looked mortified. He thought it was a vermin lie, but Markem spoke with confidence "Great Marsh is an old wild cat fort, dug out when it was discovered to have silver beneath it. I should know, we get it all the time in minted form. I'm afraid ya choose a bad side in all dis fer the privilege of being worked to death in a mine."

Scarl could not have said it better himself as he turned to Markem "I think ya turned a spy, chief. Now question is, what ya wanna do wit him?"

'Dirt' looked to Markem, wondering what the rat would do. He stared at Kelp, horrified and in terror as Markem was going to make a fateful decision. 'Dirt' hated this, he hated every moment of it, that some poor creature's entire life was little more then a casual plaything for the vermin. Kelp had no control over what would happen. He could run, hide, do everything in his power to stop what was coming to him, but he would still falter. Much like I had. I am sorry young'un. Please, forgive me. Markem on the other hand was calm and collected, and looked to Scarl. "Ya could have told me all dis yerself without terrifying a youngster, so why Scarl do you bother me with such discomfort."

"He still be a spy, though, just the question of who he wants to be a spy to? How about it young'un? Ya wanna be a spy to me an' the chief, or ya wanna still be swearen to a beast like Parb? Ya can try yer luck, but I doubt ya would make it even out der door."

Kelp didn't need to think it over as he surrendered without a fight. "Please, sir! I won't spy ever again! Please, just don't hurt me ma! Don't hurt me!"

"Enough of dat. Look me lad, ya are in me care as a spy, an I take care of me own. Unlike dat Mrs. White who'd sooner sell ya out. How about dis, ya don't tell anyone about dis little meeting, not even to yer ma, an' I'll give ya a nice treat. I think our horde can afford a few sweets, eh?" Scarl gave a grim smile. Markem nodded and sighed. The ferret then snapped at 'Dirt'. "Why don't ya escort our young friend out and to his ma, but at a slow pace so he can stop sniveling. Me an' Markem gotta talk."

'Dirt' could not help but be relieved as he quickly took Kelp out of the room, the frightened younger creature was frozen in fear, leaving Scarl and Markem alone. Scarl's friendly face towards the youngster dipped into an annoyed frown. "Kids. Did not see that commin. Parb is smart, but not dat smart. Kids break easily when ya corner em'."

"Ya actually going to turn that youngster into a spy?"

"I'll have to, considering what we do now. Besides, didn't wanna trouble you with explaining to yer children that I had him an' his mudder sent to be worked to death in the stone pit. Yer just lucky Jarolom ain't here. He'd have cropped his tale right off, right next to mine an' yers for even acting the softie."

Markem was relieved "Den now what? Parb is spying on us, but fer what reason?"

"Hells if I know, but I do wanna know. Parb ain't no fool, an be cautious. That youngster is still quite useful, cause wit yer permission, I am gonna round up Vake and break up der spy den here. Dem orphans and slave children cannot become Parb's eyes an' ears on us, and consider us compromised if she figures that we gots eyes in the walls."

"Remind me to bring dem mason brothers up to seal der holes in Mard and Maiz's rooms." Markem scoffed.

"I will. I won't beat em out of him, but I will find out where Mrs. White be at. As fer ya, I'd hurry on down to Parb's tent before she gets all comfy an' decides to grace us wit her presence. Now is not the time to be diplomatic, now we gotta be forceful. Especially wit her. Quick the better I say. I got work to do Markem, an' I'd like to get to it."

Markem nodded "Do it quietly as possible if ya can, Scarl. I'd like to at least live in the illusion that we know what we are doin."
_

'Dirt' took the young Kelp back to his mother, it was a silent journey for the most part as Kelp looked forlorn as he went back to helping Olda. Olda had thought her son was terrified being alone with their master Markem, but Kelp had purposefully kept silent about the whole affair. It did not take long for Markem to find 'Dirt', who was coming back in a less than happy attitude. Markem was quick to snap the otter back to reality "Scarl ain't much of a monster if yer worried about dat young beast, 'Dirt'. He'll be rooting out this spy from the fort in due course."

'Dirt' followed Markem as they went out into the main hall. Markem was quick to dismiss the warlords who were still meandering in the hall, telling them to go back to their camps and to be ready to march. Luzgot scoffed beneath his breath as Markem addressed the warlords.

"I know I called ya all here, but we will be leaving an' marching later in der night, after we rest an' have our evening vittles. I wish to make my goodbyes to me family, if ya don't mind. I must make a short stop before we leave as well, an' i'll sent me couriers to when I says I am ready fer our attack." The warlords grumbled, but accepted as they exited the hall and made their way back to their own respective camps. Luzgot shot Markem a dangerous look, wondering what he was planning, and was quick to exit. As they left, Sheera came up to Markem and tapped his shoulder.

"I hope ya aren't doin anything rash befer me brother shows up. I heard he had just arrived."

"I won't be long. I have to advise one last one of dem warlords before we march. Tonight, an before the sun starts goin down."

Sheera groaned "Fine, but ya best back shortly. Yer children wish to actually say goodbye to der father before ya leave." There was concern in her voice as Markem comforted her by rubbing her paws, giving his dumb and predictable smile. "I promise, I'll come back neat an' sound."

Markem left the hall with 'Dirt' in tow as the two wandered out of Gholand. The two were not in a good mood, and wandered through the city of tents outside. Markem would glance around at the vermin of the various hordes, each one more unique then the last. Without the presence of their warlords, the various vermin were talking and speaking to one another about their concerns and troubles. Jusbrag vermin were quick to complain about wanting to return home, Veekun's Burrow vermin grumbled over the belief that the spirits did not favor them. Resker's vermin feuded over their vittles, and Luzgot's vermin were unhappy with how their boss and themselves were treated. The one horde which lacked all the clear signs of complaint were Parb's vermin, who were few and far inbetween. Parb's vermin were veteran soldiers, although that was a lie, it was more accurate to say they were retired hordebeasts who pretended to be veterans to impress their mistress.

Most were disciplined and cruel creatures, who had large and prosperous families back in Great Marsh, and were used more as a defensive garrison. They were skilled and well armed, most having bows and the training to use them properly, the Great Marsh vermin lacked something which Markem valued in other hordebeasts. Loyalty. Most of Parb's vermin were traitors from other hordes, and most were allured to the wealth Parb granted them. Markem may have needed Parb for her wealth, but he did not value her horde in the slightest, seeing them as snobbish elites which he despised when he was a common grunt much like them.

Parb's pavilion was set up like a palace amongst the tents, surrounded by her guards and minions. Parb sat comfortably upon a lounging couch, her slave and personal servant Nurka awaiting patiently, keeping her head down. Danza had returned to Parb's side, telling her all that she had gotten to know, as the mink warlordess sipped comfortably. "So, the iron fist of Markem tightens? At least he has a decent plan of attack."

"Yes, my mistress." Danza mentioned "My little eyes an' ears also informs me that Gholand's keep has hidden passages, one for which we can use to our. . .advantage if need be."

Parb smiled "I see, and this little 'eyes an' ears'? Did you promise them something in return for such service?"

"Freedom, the one thing that usually gets their attention more than my sweets. On your orders, I can remove the spy if you so wish, since he has outlived his usefulness."

"No, I am in a merciful mood." Parb relented "Prepare for extraction if need be, for this young one only. He'll make a fine personal servant for me, a reward fitting of his service."

Danza bowed "Of course my lady. I shall start as soon as I-" A guard entered the pavilion which grabbed their attention. It was one of Parb's captains who saluted her. "My lady, Markem Brownnose is approaching, claiming he wishes to talk. He brings that bodyguard of his as well."

Danza looked surprised "What? I was informed that he would meet them in his halls. . ."

"Danza, hide beneath the couch. Let Markem in, my good captain." Parb awaited, but not in her normal patience. She snapped at her servant to get some drink, as Danza slunk beneath the couch and hid herself. Markem and 'Dirt' entered into the lustrous pavilion, which to any minor warlord or gang leader would have impressed them. It was an immaculate and ornate thing, with silver candle sticks to illuminate the room, rugs and couches which laid over the grass and dirt, and a beautiful bed with a wooden frame. Food was laid out on a personal table, along with trunks full of books. An entire barrel of wine laid out as a table, and to most, it would have put warlords like Markem under a thrall of wealth. Yet, as Markem entered, he didn't gaze at any of it. He seemed interested as he bowed humbly to Parb in a friendly way. "Greetings, Parb. Time is short, so I'll be as brief. I was suspecten ya sooner, but we will be marching today."

"I am informed." Parb sat up and offered Markem a drink, taking a cup from the paws of her servant and passing it to Markem. Markem stirred the cup a bit and put it down on the barrel gently. "No time fer dat either, me brother-in-law comes shortly an' I will be eating wit family. I do not wish to ruin me appetite."

"I see. So, good Markem. You have come discuss things with me?"

"I have." Markem folded his paws. Parb was taken aback by Markem's sour attitude. Usually, the rat was quite diplomatic, and had nothing but kind words. Now, however, he and his bodyguard looked fairly grim. Markem began to speak "Parb, you will be helping to lead the main attack on the river Moss, although yer army ain't big, I suspect some general results. I don't really see Goba wit ya, so I suspect one of yer captains to be leaden yer horde in his absence. You will have yer orders to hold fast an' start laying down groundwork fer the main army, my armies, to sweep through the region an' settle my laws an' demands on the woodlander villages. As a member of this great band, I suspect you will hold fast to me laws an' rights."

"Wait, wh-" Parb's complexion broke as Markem continued "An further more, you an' yer horde will be treaten de woodlanders wit some respect an' courtesy as ya do me. Ya are not to conscript or bring on slaves without me or me taskmaster Gutan's say so. In fact, ya will refrain from raiding em at all."

Parb spoke up, clearly insulted "Ya gone mad? How do you suspect me to reinforce my horde or reward them for their service? My silver pays for a lot of things, Markem, but that gift can be retracted at a moment's notice."

"Oh, I know dat, but I don't really think of this kind of thing as a gift. I think of it as taxes."

"Taxes?"

"Aye. Ya pay me a good amount to keep yer lands safe from the Long Patrol, an I overlooked all dem abuses in yer mines. However, wit the Long Patrol soon to be gone, I am wondering why I protect ya. We made a pact some time ago, but now yer dues are coming in an I am wondering why ya even pay me fer services I don't even need to render onto you. So I am changing der deal a little. Great Marsh is a very important mine, but I be asken what I need you for. Tell me, truthfully, what I need you for?"

Parb was at a loss for words as Markem looked on. Parb collected herself and sipped her drink dutifully "I am the only warlord who can keep the mines running, of course. Not to mention, it is my vermin and my riches who keep you filthy rich."

"Rich in what?" Markem snapped. Parb was again at a loss for words, this time unsure of what Markem meant. "Why, rich in silver? Do you not buy your vermin, your supplies, your slaves even with the silver I provide?"

"True, you provide me a lot of silver, Parb, but I don't consider meself rich. I use all that coin to help me horde, gettin em better weapons, better armor, houses, tools, paying fer skilled craftsbeasts from my own tributary villages. I spent a lot on developing me own lands, an improving the lives from my most skilled cap'ns to me lowest thralls. Rich? Far from it, I am in constant debt, debt to vermin an' woodlanders alike. The quicker ya realize yer a tool to this horde, Parb, the better it be fer ya an' me. This great vermin band has one purpose, an one purpose alone. To make a better world fer us all. Now prepare yer horde an' begin moving out, we make our march tonight."

Parb was speechless as Markem exited her pavilion in a huff, followed by 'Dirt' who looked over it all with an increasing spite for the warlordess. Parb was yet intrigued, she wondered if Markem meant his words, or if it was all just gilded confidence in his own power. As Markem was far enough away, Danza came out a bit concerned and looked out. "My lady, I must return. Something is wrong."

"You have moments, Danza. Do not dalley long in Gholand." Parb warned. Danza was off in a hurry however, barely hearing her lady call out. Parb was left alone with her confused servant, as she lounged back down to rest, thinking about what Markem had said.


Markem's horde was gathering before its gates, but the rat was nowhere to be seen as all manner of things were happening at once. Karlgo, Markem's informal chamberlain, was already making appointments with the captains who would stay in Gholand and muster the defenses and lockdown of the tributary villages. However, this duty was stolen from him as he was commanding around captains to begin mustering for the march, as the whole horde and the Great Vermin Band's many aligned warlords formed formations. Vermin warriors whispered amongst themselves of the coming battles, and many looked about their weapons and armor with increasing concerns. They were being well treated and well fed, readying for the campaign. Markem's captains had informed their sub-captains of the order of battle, who relayed it to trusted vermin. They would soon march to Tussock and beyond, and conquer the entire whole of eastern Mossflower, but yet the real girth of ambition was for all of Mossflower itself.

Markem was enjoying a friendly and peaceful meal with his family in Gholand's keep, with his brother-in-law Pelchovmar who had come in late. Still dressed in his favored armor, the warlord had many stories to tell Markem. Markem and Pelchovmar were enjoying an old family meal of Pelchovmar's family, served by Markem's servants. However, of the beasts enjoying a good time in the dining hall of Markem's keep, Mard and Maiz seemed to look sadly at their stew, a once family favorite. Both looked down into their stew, with Mard slowly stirring it with his spoon. Sheera nudged her son "Come now, eat up befer it gets cold. Ya don't like cold stew, I hope."

Mard looked up sadly at his mother, breaking the otherwise friendly mood with a simple question. "Ma, why is our friend Kelp a slave?"

There was a silence in the room as Sheera looked down with some twisted scorn and concern at them. Markem also stopped as Mard continued "Pa, why's is 'Dirt' an 'Mud' also work beasts? I don' gettet." Mard and Maiz almost looked distraught, as if they were now just starting to realize their odd world around them. Markem without saying much got up and came to them as Sheera was quick to scold them. "An what I tell ya two about makin a playmate out of dat sea dog?"

"But ma, Kelp is a friend. Like how Markem an' 'Dirt' is? Right, pa?"

Markem came over and patted his son "It be complicated, me lad." Markem attempted to explain. Sheera came close, sitting Maiz on her lap. There were several in the audience to such things, the chief amongst them was 'Dirt' and Pelchovmar. The others were in the kitchens mostly, enjoying their own meal as promised by Sheera. What was perhaps missing in context was that Mard and Maiz had spent some time playing in those kitchens, not realizing the terror Markem and Scarl had inflicted on Kelp. The two had to be speaking more in the kitchens, under Olda's careful and cautious eye who was powerless to swat them away.

"Now, I know ya don't get out much from the keep, me son. When I was yer age an' a bit older, I was conscripted into a horde. Ya know what a conscript be?"

Mard shook his head. "Dey forced me into an army, not all dat different from a slave beast, but difference I didn't get a choice in who I got to fight, an' where. I accepted me place der till I escaped, an' knowen nutten else I wandered. I wandered far an' wide fer me food, serven others. Slave beasts like yer friend don't gotta choice in de's matters of what dey can' an cannot do, cause dat is how dey way our world works. Dey work cause we tell'em too, not because dey want to."

"Pa, does that make us evil?" Maiz asked. Markem was kind of at a loss himself, for how does one excuse the inexcusable. Sheera cuddled her daughter "Nay, me yung'un. We ain't no evil beast. Tis just the way dings, are. Vermin be vermin, an' woodlander be woodlander."

Mard and Maiz had to ultimately accept these things, and were comforted by Markem who hugged his son deeply. 'Dirt' looked on, unsure of what to think. Mard and Maiz began to eat again as his master took Sheera aside. They seemed to talk a bit, although with how wide eyed Sheera was, it seemed that Markem was explaining to her what had happened. She scoffed a bit at the idea that Markem presented to her, but would reluctantly accept. Markem came over to Mard and Maiz "Now, I know i'll be gone ya two, but do me a good favor an' keep me house all tidy while I be gone. I promise to return in short order."

Mard smiled "Of course pa! When will ya be back?"

"In short order, not sure when. Now, I need ya both to behave as ya do, an if ya behave good enough, you an yer friend can be a bit closer. Now, I need ya also to do me another favor, an to not go in places where ya shouldn't be goin into. Can ya do dat fer ya pa?"

Maiz blurted out, with stew on her lips "Of course, pa!"

"Oh good. Now, me an yer uncle gotta do a couple of dings, an' be good fer ya mum while we be gone." Markem kissed the heads of both of his children and hugged Sheera. Pelchovmar got up and hugged his nephew and niece. 'Dirt' could tell it was time, and went over to Markem. They would soon be off to Tussock soon, and he would follow. The irony was not lost on 'Dirt', his once fevered dream of escaping to Tussock had taken a grim turn. Once Mard and Maiz were done, they were huddled off to their bed with Pelchovmar turning to Markem, a bit concerned.

"Uncomfortable as dat was, mate, I hope they do grow some good sense. Not to be meaning anything wit a bad note, of course."

"None taken. I don't think dey need to hear the gritty details till dey be older." 'Dirt' looked rather forlorn as the two vermin casually said this. However, Markem looked to 'Dirt' and sighed "Right, 'Dirt'?"

"Of course, sir."
_

Torch light illuminated the night as Danza watched from a hidden area near Gholand, a little bit shocked as she was surrounded by her 'best' orphans and slave children who watched on. Gholand's slaves were being led out of their homes, several of the taskmasters looking over them. While they may not have had whips, each of the taskmasters was given authority to beat down on the slaves who moved too slowly or refused. The woodlanders watched as several taskmasters were rummaging through the hole in the side of the dilapidated barracks, the small hole now being filtered out. Gutan was standing alongside his assistant Jugar Blacktail, the fate rat writing down into his scroll as the Gholand soldiers began to brutally pick apart Danza's spy den.

Danza was well hidden, looking out a bit fearfully from her hiding place, she could see very little of what was happening, but could most definitely see the outline of Scarl. An orange cloaked fox with a halberd also stood at attention next to him, grimly snarling at the soldiers who were not moving fast enough to his liking. Vake, Markem's sheriff, did not like the fact that any of the supposed spies were being kept safe from his justice. Of those found in the hole, three unlucky squirrel children were huddled next to their parents who looked up in fear at both Scarl and Vake, begging for their lives.

"Yer friends, or at least one of dem spilled de beans on dis one, youngsters. Just tell us where Mrs. White has gone!" Scarl repeated, his voice clearly edging with annoyance. The youngsters and their parents were silent, till the father spoke up "They don't know, ferret! We went over this!"

Vake lowered his halberd "Tell us, slave beast, or I start with the youngest and move up. Prod them if you need be, but don't waste our time."

Gutan came forward, acting as a barrier between both of them. He did not look very happy at Scarl "No need fer that. If dey don't know, they don't know Scarl. De's be my slave beasts to command, not yers."

"Debatable." Scarl snapped at him "However, dat spy be still here. One of dem must know."

Danza looked terrified, even though to her best and brightest she was calm and collected. She had seen enough and told her young cadre what to do "I must be leaving, an' likely for some time. You are all to scatter and tell them nothing, me pretties. If you can do this, your rewards will be great."

The vermin youngsters nodded, although the slave children in her retinue were unsure. Danza was not going to stay to see what happened next and was bounding through the crowds of vermin and back out to meet Parb. Once safe inside her pavilion, Parb was quickly informed by Danza of what had happened. "Our compromise was. . .regrettable, my lady. However, we can rebuild once Scarl and his fools go away."

"That won't be necessary, in fact, I need you elsewhere." Parb retorted. She then motioned to another figure Danza did not see who was hidden as well in the pavilion. Luzgot was drinking from a cup rather greedily and was rather pushy towards Nurka who was serving him his drinks. Danza gave a wide bow to Luzgot who didn't bother to return the formality. "So, yer spymaster fails ye? If ya want, I can kill her now an's be done wit it."

Danza's eyes widened with fear and quickly moved back from Luzgot as he unsheathed his blade. Parb looked bored, unsupportive which made Danza quickly beg for her life "No, wait! My lady, just because my spies failed, doesn't mean we cannot. . .please, good Luzgot, I can still be of use to the both of you!"

"I'm listening." Luzgot snidely remarked. Parb motioned Luzgot to stop. "No need for that, Luzgot. Besides, we do have a new use for you, my dear Danza."

Danza was partly relieved as she meekly bowed. Luzgot put away his sword and drank the remainder of his wine. Parb spoke out "Markem is either mad or a fool, but yet I am now a bit more convinced he is not as hypocritical as you think he is, Luzgot. However, he must be stopped. This 'Great Vermin Band' is a trap, a trap for which he will use to ensnare us into his horde in general. Others may not realize it yet, but we are no longer his vassals, but his captains."

"Took ya long enough, mink." Luzgot chided her "We march tonight, but only after our 'master' eats an is filled. Not to mention, this 'Scarl's' eyes be upon me, an now likely you. Garzlo has sent a spy to Jusbrag to gain der fortress under me sway, although we know little of it."

"Which is why we shall send Danza." Parb smiled "Danza, my dear, you will head to Jusbrag and aid in this effort to help coup the fortress in our favor, but do not stay too long. Jusbrag is a. . .less than friendly place."

Danza sighed with relief "Of course my mistress, I shall go at once. I will stop by Luzland to confer with this 'Garzlo'."

Luzgot sneered at her as she quickly packed her things and left. Luzgot gave an accusing glance at Parb "Spys an' traitors all, ya should have had her killed. Useless spies like dat endanger this whole coup!"

"She has her uses, Luzgot." Parb yawned "Now please, leave us. We will be marching out soon, and I imagine Markem will not want to wait any further." Luzgot left in a huff, as Parb continued to sip at her drink. I am going to miss Markem when he is gone, a truly interesting creature.
_

Vermin groaned as they began to realize they were setting up their tents that their captains were already packing them up. Gholand soldiers were marching out under banner and drum as Markem came out amongst them at the head of only a part of his army. There was a sudden and vibrant air of warfare as vermin were aroused from their napping and told the order of the campaign via their captains. Vermin who had slacked off in their duties were getting their weapons ready, and the barracks of Gholand filed out in uniform lines. Those with families said their goodbyes, as youngsters looked on with pride as files of vermin soldiers marched past them. All the years of wandering and marching under Markem had come down to this, as the air began to fill with vermin songs.

March an' file to the beat of der drum, sharpen yer pointers in der morning sun

Prepare ye sword for battle, prepare yer spears to rattle

Make way fer the Great Vermin Band, to march from land to land

Make way ye fools for the pride of color true, for we will soon loot an' stew

Cry out fer vittles unattended, make way fer the bowbeasts to ascend

Sharpen yer javelin to make use, let loose the pebble from the sling

Prepare ye for our marching!

Vermin from all across eastern Mossflower were all in one place, their war banners fluttered as Markem came out with his best captains. Scarl was informing him of several developments, including the issue that Jarolom had not returned just yet. Markem was not concerned for his friend, confident of his survival. Markem was soon joined by many of the other warlords, who had all gathered before him, their armies all ready to march out. It was a truly massive army, and even the very number of soldiers Karlgo had counted, he could not believe it.

Markem was illuminated by torchlight held by 'Dirt' who looked around, terrified and impressed. Amongst several vermin were several horrified woodlander slaves who knew what was going to happen, but did not have the bravery to stop it. They watched as vermin spears clattered as Markem spoke to his best of brightest, surrounded by his elite guard of shield bearing soldiers, his veterans.

"Tonight, we march to Tussock! We march to conquer lands fer the horde an to all of ye, yerselves! Take head, fer there will not be another speech from me, we will run out the Long Patrol from eastern Mossflower! We will make dis land our home! We either return wit loot an' vittles, or not at all! To the victor goes the spoils, lads!" Markem's words were met with resounding cheer as the horns blew and drums were pounded. The entire vermin began to march off into the night, led on by Markem and his grand host. Thunder rolled out in the distance, as the army of darkness moved across the land like a shadow. In the distance, a group of Long Patrol looked on from hidden positions, getting ready to report what was happening back to their commander.

The Great Vermin Band was coming.