FSE

Furry search engine

formerly SoFurry search engine

Mavra and I are at Jakob's shop, my sword is ready and I'm more then excited. I've also been nose deep in learning some new magic from Mavra and Serilda in the meantime, tapping into some air and water magic, I can manage to use it but it's fare more difficult compared to me using fire, which is understandable and even Mavra confirmed it can be difficult to learn new elements and new magic in general.

Jakob comes out from the back, holding a royal blue, metal scabbard, he's giving me a prideful smile, he holds it out to me and he says "Your sword."

I say "Thank you Jakob." with a smile, I put the sword into my belt, I draw it so that Mavra and can see it, overall it's a custom long sword, the guard is that of a golden aquila backed by steel, the grip is a beutiful red and the pommel is gold like the aquila, the aquila itself has it's wings spread with a sapphire eye on either side and on the blade itself, etched in gold it reads 'VALOR AGAINST THE ODDS'.

Mavra says "An amazing-looking weapon." with an impressed smile.

I say "There's more.", I have my sword conduct fire, just enough for it to have some flame and glow, earning a huge smile from Jakob and a jaw drop from Mavra.

Mavra says "It conducts magic like a calendar sword."

Jakob says "The mages at the college were happy to help... for a price of course." keeping that smile of his.

I stop sending magic into my sword, I put it away, I look to Jakob "Excellent work, I'll definitely spread word your work." with a smile.

Jakob gives a light laugh and he says "Definitely give me another order like this, you're not like my typical clients, I rarely do any actual custom work." with a smile.

Maeve comes in and she says "Mavra and Adam!"

We both look to her and Mavra says "What's going on?"

Maeve says "The Don has asked us to assemble in the throne room! It's pretty urgent!"

Mavra and I say our farewells to the smith and quickly head back with Maeve back to the residence where once again my team is assembled with Eleo near the Don and Donna.

Fabrizio says "I know that this is short notice, but Eleo believes he's found something." and he motions to Eleo.

Eleo says "The second gem on the eroded map can be placed into the heart of any of the other factions territory, as well as the ocean but we discarded that option. That means there's a catch."

Fabrizio says "Given the nature of this situation, we'll need to send out mercenaries to each location and try to keep the commotion down. This means four teams need to be dispatched, in terms of negotiating with the other powers, they'll try to likely claim territory or something else that has a large price. This means you'll be on your own in their territories, but the choice of where to go lies with you as we wanted you to choose where you want to go given that you have more experience in dealing with this."

Danica nods, she looks to me and she says "Good Adam, I'll leave this choice to you, given you seem to have some insights on puzzles."

I think and I say "Is there an overall map?"

Eleo waves me over and he has a large hand made map laid on a table with locations marked, if these marked locations are correct the things we're looking for are close to the capitals of each of the other powers... which would make sense if these dungeons likely haven't been disturbed in maybe a few thousand years at least. None of the other powers will trust us, if anything I think we'll be ambushed on sight no matter what we do, even from the chivalrous Avoirdupois. I study the map as best I can but I'm not the best in terms of maps, if anything I'm one of the worst.

I say "We'll head to the Phelan territories mi lord."

Fabrizio nods "Very well, good luck to all of you."

Alcalee looks me over "That is a beautiful looking sword good Adam." with a light smile as she continues "May we see it?"

This earns the guards attention, I smile as I pull my new weapon out, earning gasps from from everyone as I raise it. I decide to put a little flair into it, I place my sword in front of me with the blade horizontal and point up in front of my face, I inject a little fire magic into the sword causing it to ignite a little as I have two wings of fire hover over my back, the guards stare at me in awe as the gold glows, the few citizens who are also present for their far more mundane tasks have their jaws dropped, the Don and Donna put on looks of pure amazement with Eleo looking me over.

Alcalee puts on a smile and she says "Our phoenix has grown up pretty well."

Fabrizio says "Indeed." with a smile of his own "When you're ready to leave head to the northern gate."

I stop casting my theatrics and we quickly make our own personal preparations, on the way to the carriage many of the citizens look to us or more specifically me as a few even use hand gestures to describe the fiery wings I displayed, on a more personal level I decide that if magic exists here, maybe it wouldn't hurt to have some more luck on our side. I look to Lalaine and I see she's already praying, I lightly nod to silently thank her and we begin to board the carriage.

I hear "May Helliose bless your travels Phoenix! For you and your friends!", I look and I see the Father of the church, earning looks from everyone.

I think 'Word travels fast indeed.', I smile "Thank you Father." with a light bow.

In terms of the scenery, expansive planes and the edges of forests are instantly noticeable and that's basically it outside the occasional farm or small settlement or store, soon the night hour creep in, up ahead I see what looks like a hotel.

I look to Mavra and I say "How long will it take before we reach our destination?"

Mavra says "At this rate.... we'll be lucky if it takes a month."

My jaw drops and I say "A month!"

Serilda says "Car?" with a witty smile.

I sigh "I wish." as I bury my face in my hands.

Lalaine, Maeve and Danica look at eachother and Lalaine says "What's a car?"

A month... a whole month of travel... but like I said I suck at maps and after being told how big the island is... it is roughly the size of the United Kingdom back on Earth... as in my Earth, and to make matters worse we're going at about eight to ten miles per hour... I hate traveling just being in the vehicles I'm use to, never mind this carriage. But it's not all that bad, along the way we see the Three Corners Fort under the control of the Rinaldi, a citadel of stone and mighty cannons, a very sturdy bulwark for protecting the city and more then a match for any army. We're nearing our destination, after close to a month of travel I'm really looking forward to getting out of this carriage and really spreading my legs, suddenly a boom echos and with it a bullets shoots through the carriage.

I yell "STOP!!! DISEMBARK!"

The carriage stops and we hop out and get on one side of the carriage, a few more shots come at us as we take cover.

Maeve says "Well, the quiet was nice while it lasted." as she readies her bow.

I say "If I had to guess their using muskets, after we hear them fire again we charge them, if their bandits they won't have enough time to fully reload. Serilda, Mavra and I will take point, Lalaine you stay here, Maeve we're going to need that bow of yours and Danica cover our rear." and I ready my sword.

Everyone nods, we hear the muskets again, I give them a nod and the three of us charge as Maeve gets on top of the carriage, three boars in leather armor are readying their muskets, but they see us and they switch to swords with one drawing a pistol as well, which catches my eye as now they charge us, quick cut into the guy with the pistol which I take with my left hand, the two boars look at as I have my sword impaled through their comrade who died instantly, the two look at each other and start to make a run for it, I decide to try this pistol out, I aim it at one of them and fire, the bullet misses spectacularly but it does make them jump and run faster.

I look to the ladies as I blow the smoking barrel and I say "Finally, some exercise!" as I get the dead boar off my blade.

Mavra sighs and she says "Out of anything that could have happened we get ambushed by some highway men."

Danica says "If they weren't rookies we could have lost someone."

I hum a tune as I start to reload the pistol, which is a wheel-lock and reloads like the ones from Earth, I take the pigs holster, ammunition and black powder.

Danica says "A sword, magic and now a gun? How many means of attack do you need?" as she crosses her arms.

I say "Victory through versatility." with a smirk, I pick up the musket and I say "Would any of you like to have this? I got a decent number of bullets and powder?"

Everyone shakes their head and Maeve states "If you find a good vender, I'm sure they wouldn't mind giving you a second pistol and some coin for it."

Mavra says "That's going to be a while, the Bisclavret offer thee best exchange rate for guns."

I decide to reload the weapon "Then we'll have it as a back up weapon or something, besides some practice with both won't hurt one bit."

After I reload the musket, I load it into a compartment along with what goods of value and supplies were on the boar and we leave aboard the carriage.

..............................................

Alcalee is going through some paperwork in her office, reports from scouts of the rustling Doloreaux, a negotiation letter from the stoic Avoirdupois and word of a few minor wars between some Duke's in the Bisclavret according to some spies. The grey vixen sighs as she thinks about those sent out, especially when it comes to Danica, Maeve, Lalaine, Mavra, Serilda and Adam, both she and Fabrizio have gotten letters from Danica and Adam, detailing the travel and some sights with Adam's excitement over the fort earning smiles from both. Though she has also learned some of his more personal demons, the biggest thing that haunts Adam that Alcalee can tell is the abandonment he suffered from his mother. He often tries to hold back the pain, but she can see it in his eyes, much like her husband and Mavra have picked up on it. She has also theorized that this has also lead to how he becomes in combat, throwing himself at the toughest enemy or the largest group, often using magic or giving a warcry as he charges to deliver shock before a vicious blow, though in some cases luck but in most a savage strike, releasing his pent up anger and emotions on the battlefield against his rivals. If anything, she believes if the Bisclavret found him first he could easily fit right in with their methods of war, though his emotional stand point would likely back fire on them sooner or later, especially since Adam doesn't agree with how the Bisclavret often 'employs' people.

Alcalee begins to wonder if anything could help heal Adam's mind, Maeve has certainly helped him to where Adam has become more talkative as well as having better rest but Adam's knowing of maternal instinct itself seems to have been destroyed entirely. Never the less however if, if she had to describe Adam's qualities in a bit of a stereotype manner, he has the wits of a fox, the ferocity and heart of a wolf and the tenacity of a badger. A knock comes to which the vixen warmly asks who it is and Fabrizio enters with a letter in hand.

Alcalee smiles and she says "Good afternoon hon."

Fabrizio moves over as he says "Greetings sweetie.", he gives her a kiss and he says "We just got a letter in, it's from Adam."

Fabrizio opens it and it reads like this:

"Greetings Don Fabrizio and Donna Alcalee, I am happy to say that we're nearing the Phelan territories and we still haven't encountered any hostiles, though I suspect that being on the boarders of three powers we may come under attack at some point. Anything to break up the mediocrity would be nice actually, but it won't be anything we can't handle.

Hopefully the other teams are doing well in heir search, Lalaine keeps praying for their success and safety and being our moral officer she does really well to keep our spirits going with Maeve even sharing her enthusiasm at times. In terms of the mission and letters however, this'll likely be our last one for a while unless there's a post that's close to the Phelan boarder then you may get another but it will depend on the situation, hopefully my next letter will be positive on our mission and that we'll be on our way back.

On a more personal note, the sights of the island are amazing, the communities we've bumped into are interesting, though it would be nice if everyone would stop staring at me at first sight. I am still getting use to the signs here as in the picture language used but I am still getting use to it, with many of them being wonderful works of art. We did have an encounter with the Doloreaux, a unit of military personnel that had taken heavy losses after striking against some well-equipped bandits, their french accent and style really did catch my attention, thankfully we were able to patch them up and get them on their way back home, at least I hope they make it, they only had daggers to protect themselves but it should be enough.

I hope the both of you are doing well and I hopefully get to see the both of you soon.

Best regards, Adam the Phoenix"

Fabrizio says "Looks like we may not hear from them for some time."

Alcalee says "Adam understood the risks when setting out and no one objected. It looks like he's earned everyone's trust and he's proven he can handle himself pretty easily." with a proud smile.

Fabrizio says "It's his sense of wonder I think I enjoy the most, I rarely see anything like it."

A thought comes to the vixen and she says "There is an idea I've been bouncing around. Since he is acting as an errant, maybe we can make him a knight of our house?"

Fabrizio says "I've been thinking the same, however we can't do anything like that as it might agitate the knights who have been with us their whole lives and Adam more then likely would respectfully reject the notion for that reason." with his arms crossed, he sighs and he says "We could give him a letter of nobility but that may be pushing it as well as it would require the creation of a signant ring and a ring with his own symbol."

Alcalee nods in understanding and she says "I was also thinking of that, unless something major happens I think it may just cause an uproar."

Fabrizio says "Let's wait and see what happens, besides I would like to have Adam's input on such a thing."

............................................................................................................

With the roads having run dry, we're now on foot and heading into the lands of the Phelan with Maeve and I taking point, according to the map we're at the southern boarder of their territory and where we need to go is either in the middle or more towards the edge of the island... great...

I say "How well do the Phelan react to others entering?"

Maeve says "Eh, their usually okay with others as long as their is no hostile intent, though they don't like the Doloreaux and Bisclavret that much and towards the Rinaldi and Avoirdupois powers they are basically neutral."

I say "Then should we announce ourselves?"

Maeve says "Most don't speak our language as far as I know, their language is called Berla Feini, they either learn our tongue from travelers or from the few teachers they have. So it's likely to them it'll just be noise."

I sigh "Hopefully this goes smoothly and I'm not looking over my shoulder. Which reminds me, what about bandits?"

Maeve says "Thankfully they maintain their boarders against bandits and the other scum, so no need ta worry about it."

The six of us move deeper into the woods and I think the locals may be watching us, because that's how I feel. Suddenly I hear something, I stop which prompts the others to do the same, I look around and I don't see anything due to the trees, I hold my right hand to my ear and I can hear music and singing to go along with it. I look to the four behind us and I wave them over, the music instantly catching their attention.

Danica says "A bard? That's my best guess and it fits the description of the southern clan, the Tuath na Deasaich."

I say "I guess this is a good time as any." and I instantly take point.

We move around the trees, the tune getting louder as we go, we soon come to an area that has a downed tree, sitting on it is a wolf, his clothes are a dry leather with his torso uncovered, he's holding an instrument which is a string type, his fur is dirty and he looks like he's having the time of his life. I start to really listen to the music, it's a fairly happy tune, I can't understand a single word but it's quite a melody. The music comes to a gentle stop as the wolf lightly nods, I start to light clap which gets his attention, indeed the ladies start to as well, the wolf quickly stands and gives us a bow.

I say "Excellent performance." with a smile.

He looks to me, he gives us a light smile and he says something in his native tongue, if I had to guess he's thanking us, he comes over to us as he looks our equipment over, my sword really getting his attention, but then he looks right at me, he puts on a curious look.

I think 'Time to establish contact I guess.', I say "It's nice to meet you, my names Adam." as I put my hand over my heart while saying my name and I ask "It's nice to meet you mister..."

The wolf blinks at me, he looks me over, he puts his hand over his chest like me and he says "Boreal." with a light smile.

I say "Nice to meet you Boreal."

Boreal looks to the others who introduce themselves, then he waves and starts to walk, giving us another wave after a few steps.

Mavra says "Looks like he want us to follow."

I say "Off to a good start, come on let's see where we end up." with an excited smile.

Boreal starts to lead us, he starts to play on his instrument and starts to sing, the tune is mellow and somewhat slow, must be a travel song of some sort. Despite the contact we just made I still feel like we're being watched. But I also start to hear other forms of music, blending in with Boreal's, so we come to what looks like a village, the locals are going about their errands, from tanning to working a small farmland, it's all just nice to look at. Some start to look our way and notice us, the music from the village slowly fades until we have all of their attention and only Boreal's music is playing.

I hear Lalaine "Adam.", I glance and I see two wolves now behind us and they are adorned in a form of leather armor with bracers, I silently give the motion to keep calm.

Boreal stops playing and he says something I can't even remotely understand to the crowd, though the sounds of irish accents is definitely clear, he's talking in a positive manner almost like a jester presenting guests. He goes on for a few minutes, during that time more of those wolves appear, indeed all the villagers are wolves and he smiles at us as he finishes. All of the wolves scan us but then practically universally, they look right at me.

I instantly feel uncomfortable as this is starting to feel overwhelming, "Greetings, my name is Adam and these ladies are my friends and comrades. We mean you no harm, we're just passing through but I am also curious, to learn about your people and your achievements. And no doubt you have questions for us, we'll answer your questions if we can and we want to." with a welcoming smile and more importantly keeping my hands away from my weapons but I also think 'Please, tell me at least one of them understands me.'

A wolf emerges from the crowd, a female with some of her fur greying, looks me over as she approaches, her eyes are a gentle blue and her natural fur is brown with a greying white under coat, she gently moves her left hand over my cheek, her curious gaze shifting as she gently moves my head, her ears twitch, she looks to my chest, she puts her ear to my chest which she has to bend a little to do. She hovers there for a few moments, she brings her head back up with a sympathetic look as he places her right hand over my heart.

I think 'I guess she can see through my motions, my heart hasn't felt that good since...'

A voice comes "Welcome to our land." in a male voice that's finely tuned.

Another wolf comes over, he's wearing a form of dense leather armor, an axe on his hip, his coat adorned in some white paint with a welcoming smirk. The shewolf lightly steps away as she lightly bows her head, in fact all the wolves do, so I motion for the others to follow suite.

The wolf says "I am Duke Evelo, it is nice to meet you travelers." keeping his smile.

I say "It is nice to meet you mi lord." as I think 'Thank goodness.'

Evelo looks to the shewolf and he says "What's the matter Relocca?" with a curious look.

Relocca says "This ones heart weeps, I can hear it's out of tune." as she looks me over.

This earns everyone's attention, Maeve puts on a look of disbelf at this... but either way I know what I just said and I have a feeling if I don't answer it I'll look like a hypocrite.

I sigh "It is true, my mother abandoned me before I came here."

The wolves look at me with shock and sympathy, as for my friends they look to me with concern, there are some other shewolves amongst the crowd with their young on their back, cradling them or if their old enough standing next to them with what I can their fathers sticking close to them, for them it looks like news hit a lot harder as they look to their children.

Evelo sighs and he says "Most would not admit such a thing."

I say "I am still flesh and blood with emotions, regardless of how much steel is on me.", I look to my friends as I say "I always try to look strong so that others won't worry about me.", I look to Evelo and I say "The truth is that I am still trying to figure it out and I don't have all the answers."

Mavra raises her right hand, Evelo looks to her and nods, she thanks him, she comes over to me and she says "How come you never told us about any of this?"

I say "To put it simply, I don't know how to process my emotions and I try to have some facts before making choices or moving onward.", I look to Maeve and I say "The Donna herself asked me roughly the same question and it lead to you joining us."

Danica gives me that kind of look and she says "So, it all makes sense."

Maeve nods and she says "Hmm, a far deeper cut then any blade could ever do."

I say "But like I said, I didn't say anything because I didn't want people to worry. The truth is that it does bother me, pretty badly actually."

Relocca pulls me into a gentle embrace to where I can hear her heart beat, I gently embrace her with my right arm.

Evelo says "You are a strong spirit, having gone through such an event. Child abandonment is unheard of in our culture as you can see from the shock, I can even see the pain in your eyes but I can also see the fire of a warriors spirit.", he looks to all the wolves and he says "These people shall be our guests, come allow me to show you our village." with a smile.

I say "It would be an honor mi lord.", I glance to Relocca, I look back to the Duke and I say "Can Relocca come us?"

Evelo nods in understanding and he begins to show us around with Relocca staying by my side, I look around and I see primitive stone and metal tools, leather armor and clothes, huts and tents with small wooden stores, my sense of wonder kicks in which the wolves instantly take notice along with my comrades. After an expansive tour we come to a training area, to which Danica asks if she and I can practice with wooden swords, to which the Duke agreed and we get quite a crowd. The both of us get ready as Serilda begins to count down from ten, both of us look into eachothers eyes, I can see the mighty spirit in hers, the same spirit I've been looking at since I woke up back in the city of Triskellian, I've seen that kind of spirit in one form or another in the others... I hope I can match it, if I do then I can prove it to myself.

On Serilda's mark I charge at Danica, the wooden blades clash and lock into each other, Danica puts on an impressed smile, she forces me back pretty good, she comes at me with a few great swing, I manage to block them and I go for an impale motion which Danica deflects but it grazes her side which really catches her attention.

Serilda says "One point goes to Adam!"

We both go at eachother, but I overstep and Danica delivers a few blows of her own.

Serilda says "One point to Danica!"

Danica quickly comes at me and I try to block but despite a few success she lands her hits.

Serilda says "Second point to Danica!"

I decide to try to go on the offensive, but before I can Danica moves in an instant and after overwhelming my defenses she lands her last hit needed to win.

Serilda says "Third point goes to Danica! Danica wins."

Danica smiles and she says "You're getting better, before you couldn't even land a hit on me."

I say "I have learned so much from you Danica, for me it is an honor to learn from you." with a light smile.

Slowly the night creeps in to which we're granted a place to sleep for the night, but Relocca asks if it would be okay if I could stay with her for the night, to which I agree as I don't want to seem rude. I say my good nights to my friends and I follow her to her place, it's a very well put together hut with some blue painted symbols, she invites me in and we enter, the hut has all kinds of tools with even a spear and wooden shield.

Relocca says "I am a scout of our militia, though I can more then handle myself at the front." as she notices my gaze.

I start to remove my weaponry and I say "It seems pretty peaceful around here, what could require scouting?"

Relocca says "The ones that call themselves Bisclavret, they sometimes send spies here, not to mention the occasional trouble maker here an there."

I nod at her words as I sort my equipment out, I look to Relocca "Such ah shame, these woods are beautiful to look at."

Relocca puts on a smile and she says "Come, let's get ready to get some sleep." as she readies a bed.

I look at the space more closely and it looks kind of big for just one person, I look to Relocca as I step towards her but suddenly I feel a harsh pulse in my chest which causes me to stop and my breathing changes a little.

Relocca instantly looks to me, she runs over, she takes me into a gentle embrace and she says "Are you alright?"

I take some deep breaths and I say "It's something that's been happening off and on for a little while, it feels like my heart is tearing itself apart."

Relocca brings me over to the bed, she lays me down and she says "Just take it easy, the shock from your ordeal has left a mark on your heart."

I look to her and I say with a sigh "I thought it would clear up sooner or later, four months of dealing with this."

Relocca lays with me, she says "The trauma you suffered has left a mark on you and rightfully so.", she starts to pet my head and she says "My children have all grown up, both of them are in the nearby villages and it would never cross my mind that abandoning him would be a good idea. I think they would like you if they stuck around, my son would like a sparing partner and my daughter and her chatter can tie you up fer hours." with a light smile.

I say "I hope I can meet them."

Relocca says "Hmm, how far are you going?"

I say "Towards the center maybe a little further north."

Relocca says "The villages they settled in are on the way." with a light smile.

Soon we both fall asleep with the shewolf holding onto me and early in the morning we head out with Relocca at our side. After a few days of hiking, running into multiple bards a day to which we all basically agreed to just see if we can avoid them.

I say "What I'd give for a teleportation spell!"

Mavra says "I hear ya." she yawns and she says "I wonder if we'll run into anything."

Relocca says "There are some central paths that are a little faster."

I look to her and I say "Big enough for a carriage to fit through?"

Relocca puts on a thinking look "It is possible, if you don't mind branches hitting it and a bit of a rough ride."

I stop as I start to think, I say "Okay, we're going to need to pick up the pace a little bit.", I look to Maeve "Maeve please head back and get the carriage and as fast you can get those beasts to move, come pick us up and we have them move as fast as possible, even if it means hitting them with a fire spell."

Maeve nods and flies away as Relocca leads us to a path and we start to walk it.

I look to Danica and I say "How fast can those beasts move exactly?"

Danica says "If we really push them we could get to our destination in a few days... though it'll kill them more then anything."

I say "We can always get more, at this rate it'll take forever get there."

Serilda and Mavra nod in agreement and Serilda says "After this, how about a vacation!"

I say "A cruise does sound nice. It's nice being outdoors and seeing nature, but we gotta hit the fast forward button."

Relocca looks to me "Fast forward... button?"

I say "A human saying, I'm from a different world entirely." which earns quite a look from her.

Suddenly we hear loud noises, we step off the path as our carriage arrives with the hired guards, Maeve lands in front of us and she says "All aboard!"

I say "Thank goodness!" with a huge smile and we all board.

The carriage is shaking as branches hit and the trail is uneven, but between shifts from Mavra and I the beasts are really making progress, Relocca does protest but we assure her after we reach our destination the beasts will retire. With Relocca's help we go around the capital of the southern tribe and after a couple hours of this according to Relocca we've entered the central tribes territory and the path thankfully evens out a bit, though this time we have to be within range of the capital of this tribe and start heading north from there, which shouldn't be a problem as from what Relocca tells us the central tribe extremely orderly, however the northern tribe will give us some form of resistance, however I clearly state that unless they openly attack us we don't engage and to instead to find alternative paths, but we're cornered and if we have no alternative to fight them off but try not to inflict any losses.

The capital of the central tribe comes into view and the sight is just astounding, a fortress of natural stone at it's core, a massive fence of wood and just in front of it all is a great body of water, a massive lake.

I look to Relocca and I say "What more can you tell us about the central tribe?"

Relocca says "The Tuath na Reeoil contains those from the other tribes as it is central to our form of trade, in terms of a leader it is lead by King Sen-Chro, the palace is called Cathair Nefenhir. It is there you can see a truest look into the lifestyle of our people." with a light smile.

After a few moments we come to a stop at a mighty wooden drawbridge with hulking wolves standing guard with extremely dense looking lether armor that looks more comparable to plate, Danica, Relocca and I leave the carriage to meet the guards. Like before the wolves look to me instantly, their spears suddenly twitch slightly, Relocca starts to talk to them in her native tongue, a few glances here and there reveal the sights of archers along the fence. The conversation seems to conclude as the guards step aside, Relocca looks to us with a nod, to which I signal the carriage that it's all clear and to head inside, we enter and the settlement is comparable in size to a town, further in a three story tall mound of unnaturally moved dirt turned mortar and put together into an intricate tribal design.

The inhabitants look to me as we pass, I can feel the fatigue set in, I'm not use to such constant use of using my magic and I fear the next time I use it I may faint. We find a place to leave the carriage with Relocca's aid and continue to the palace, though I start to notice a few of the Phelan are looking at us with distrust and hostile glares, this is their world after all and I don't blame them for such opposition, I would indeed feel the same way. After a short span of time we eventually find our way into the palace, sitting atop a might throne with jewels is a mighty looking wolf, a crown of gold and wood and a sharp gaze, he raises his hand and we stop, he comes over to us, I notice Relocca starting to kneel and so we follow suite, even lowering our heads.

I hear "To which I owe the pleasure of such an audience?" from the wolf no less, I then hear from Relocca "These travelers come with open arms our king, they seek to explore our culture and our ways as they wish to pass through our land.", I hear the king give a wondering hum and I hear him "All of you, rise."

We answer his words with taking our stature, his gaze instantly goes to me and he says "I take it you lead this band of travelers?"

I say "No mi lord, I am Adam, it's an honor meet you mi lord." keeping a straight face.

The wolf looks me over as well as the others and he says "I am King Sen-Chro, welcome to the center of all the tribes. Here you will find our peoples greatest achievements, from our docks to architecture. Though you in particular, we have never seen anything like you. What exactly are you?"

I say "I am a human from another world, a different Earth mi lord."

Sen-Chro says "Hmm, the druids did say they felt something being summoned some time ago, it looks like your it. What is your rank?"

I look to him with confuson and I say "Rank mi lord?"

Sen-Chro says "You come with such wares, are you at least a knight?"

I say "I hold no rank mi lord, I am still in training. My friends and comrades are also my teachers and advisors."

Sen-Chro looks to Danica and he says "Is this true?"

Danica says "It is mi lord." keeping a straight face.

The King looks to me and he says "Then that means you all must work as a pack of some sort, makes sense. But who among you has the highest rank?"

Danica looks to him "I have the highest rank mi lord."

Sen-Chro looks us over again, he looks to her and he says "An interesting make up, a few mystical users, a priestess, a ranger by the looks of it and an errant. Such a band doesn't just pass through these lands, though I won't interrogate any of you as I don't want to make my subjects nervous. But are you here to cause trouble?"

Danica says "No mi lord."

Suddenly the doors we just came through open and wolf is running towards us in panic "My King, the northern tribe has just been attacked! Queen Morfessa seeks aid!"

I say "Mi lord, I volunteer!"

Danica says "I do as well."

Sen-Chro looks at us and he says "I'll gather what able bodies I have and join you when able."

We follow the messenger as fast as we can to our carriage with a more primitive one near it, we inform the guards to try to switch out the beasts and to join us northward as we board the local carriage. The carriage begins to move, I look to Relocca who decided to join us, she looks more then ready to help.

I say "We'll assume defensive formation, our main concern is reinforcing the north so there's no need to get too zealous."

A loud boom takes the air, a heck of a lot louder than any musket or pistol.... a cannon.

Lalaine says "Helliose guide us."

I say "Artillery, just great." a couple more booms sound and I say "It just keeps getting better." with a sarcastic tone.

We soon enter the northern territory, given that we're dealing with cannons and that our armor is useless against such potent weaponry, I look to Mavra and Serilda to see if they can use water and air as at least a form of deflecting the shots, to which they say it's possible but they can't be sure. The sounds of battle become greater and greater until we reach our destination, in the distance is a ship, which by the looks of it is a frigate, on the beaches are what look to be marauders that are hailing from the ship with eight pounders being pushed into new positions, I look to see the settlement they are targeting and I quickly form a plan.

I say "Okay, we'll split into two teams, Relocca, Mavra, Serilda and Lalaine, head to settlement and provide aid, the rest of us will keep them occupied. Let's see if we can capture those eight pounders, maybe they'll come in handy.", everyone nods, with those heading to the settlement splitting off and those with me start to run into the fray with our weapons ready. As we come into striking range of the first cannon, I yell "VALOR AGAINST THE ODDS!"

One of the attackers looks to me as my sword hits home, wounding him and knocking him down, Maeve strikes another in the neck and Danica gives a cleaving strike to anothers back. The one I knocked down scrambles to his feat and starts to run for the nearest boat which has some of them starting to get off, I launch a fire ball at the boat which catches all of them in the blast, Danica finishes off the last gunner while Maeve scares off the last guard with her bloodied sword, I look to the cannon as I see another boat coming into sight, I motion to have the two ladies help me turn it around, I look and I see it's loaded with standard shot, I'm not sure how to aim this thing, heck none of us do. I fire the cannon which smashes into the boat and kills all of them by the looks of it.

We see the second cannon start to turn towards us, I motion for us to scatter and we do as the cannon fires, thankfully missing us and going somewhere in the woods, I jump at a charging combatant, he manages to get past my attack but my armor holds, I swing which does cut through his leather armor and leaves a nasty cut but he fails to land a hit on me, he leaps towards me, I smile as I wave my hand to which his face ignites, he lands in the sand as he screams, I turn my attention to the cannon crew a they finish loading the cannon, I charge which forces the three of them off of it, I strike one of them with my blade which cuts through the cloth cleanly, he quickly runs away, as soon as the next steps towards me I run my sword through him, I twist my sword inside his body, forcing him to exhale in pure pain and I kick him away, the last guy gives me a look of horror and runs away.

I hear "Aye, quite ah show lad.", I look and I see what looks like an officer with a drawn sword and he says "How about ah real fight." with his irish accent really showing.

I point my sword at him and I say "If that's what it takes to stop the attack, SO BE IT!", our blades clash with my blade hitting him in a glancing blow, but he holds strong.

The officer says "Good strike, but if ye seek ta die with the shewolf, then I'll grant ye yer wish!"

He breaks the clash but I quickly bring my sword back just in time, the blade hitting his leg in the process.

I say "I, Adam the Pheonix will purge you from the Earth! ALL IS DUST!!!", I force him back, I swing but he locks my blade.

The officer says "My, ye got some fight in ya! It'll make it even better after ah have ye in chains!" with a sickly smile.

We end up forcing eachother back and our blades meet in sparks as they graze eachother, we whip around and our sword meet in a clash once more. He forces me back, his sword hits but glances off my armor, we both swing our blades which hit into eachother pretty good, but my sword cuts into his, I send fire magic into my sword, with quick flick of the wrist his sword snaps like twig, I point my sword at him with a stern gaze. He turns his hands into fists which really gets my attention, he comes at me to which I quickly make a couple cuts but he looks unfazed by it. I try to knock him out but he grabs my arm and shoves me back, I try to knock him out and while I land a blow with the pommel of my sword he jumps to where I just lightly tap him, a loud cannon sound catches our attention, Maeve and Danica approach us with their swords drawn.

Danica says "Your men have wavered, you're on your own."

The officer and I look around and sure enough a few boats of sailors are fleeing.

The officer gives an aggravated sigh and he says "I surrender." as he raises his arms.

Maeve finds some things to bind him up in and we start to walk to the settlement with our weapons swiftly cleaned and put away, we enter the settlement with signs of battle damage here and there. The officer stops as everyone looks to him in anger, he instantly loses his cool as I hear a slight whimper.

I pull out my pistol, I put it to his head and I say "Keep moving."

We keep moving til we reach the center of the settlement where my frineds are along with a strong looking shewolf, she's holding a spear and shield, her outfit revealing... to say the least but it does look functional with leather padding.

The wolf says "Thanks for the help." as she steps towards us and she says "I am Queen Morfessa of the Tuath na Cell."

The three of us introduce ourselves but the officer doesn't which catches my attention, I smack him with my sidearm so hard he's now on the ground, I point my gun at him with a snear.

The officer looks to Morfessa and he says "I am First Mate Elie MacCaroon."

Morfessa looks to me "I like this one already." with an amused smirk on her features

I say "Why did you attack?", he doesn't answer and I say "Don't try my patience!"

Maeve says "I think I know.", she looks to me and she says "It's likely their slavers who aren't affiliated with the Bisclavret, all their uniforms were patchwork, even the eight pounders didn't match."

Elie says "There are over two hundred ef us on that ship, do ya really think you can fend all of them off?!" with a sneer.

I say "We will or die trying.", I look to Morfessa and I say "We're going to need those cannons and all the stuff for them mi lady."

Elie says "Three eight pounders won't be enough, we got plenty of guns..."

I say "Most of which can't hit us, the only way to capture this location is with ground forces." as I look to him.

Elie says "So, what are ye gonna do? Interrogate me? Send me back?"

I put my pistol away, I look to Morfessa and I say "His fate is in your hands mi lady."

Morfessa looks to the officer, she looks back to me "Do what you think is right." with a curious look.

I look to him as I take the pistol back out, I put the pistol to his forehead as he starts to pray and I place my finger on the trigger, he's afraid and guilty, but he's also unarmed, if I kill him I'll be just like him, I put the pistol away, I say "Here's what your going to do!" as I lift him up by force, I can feel everyones gaze fall onto me and I say "Go back to your ship and tell your captain that he and his crew are to leave, if you do not, I will not show mercy the next time you attack. GOT IT!?"

Elie nods at the last part, I can practically smell the fear... along with the harsh stench of rum.

I say "Good.", I shove him away from me and I say "Now get back to your ship and get out of my sight!" as I slash the bindings with my sword.

Elie jumps after that and he runs away as fast as he can, I put my sword away as I watch him leave, I sigh as I face Morfessa, who has an intrigued look.

Morfessa says "Hmm, you didn't kill him. Let's hope you don't regret it.", she looks to a few hardy looking wolves, she says "Get those cannons here and what's needed to use them.", she looks to an athletic one, she says "Go and tell the central tribe that the attack has been dealt with, for now.", she looks to the six of us and she says "For now you'll be treated as our guests, but we aren't trustful of outsiders, even if they are helpful."

I say "Thank you mi lady."

Morfessa comes over to me, she puts a hand on the side of my head to where I can see her claws and she says "And you'll be the guest of honor... Pheonix." with a smirk at the end.

To be continued...