There was a harsh silence spread over the area. I looked at Alteria as she clenched her fists, the weight of agony and sorrow threatening to consume the very essence of her being. She looked away from me, perhaps hoping that I'd not see the tears streaming down the side of her face. I knew not what I could say to such a declaration. Such a story would have made any Draegnarian laugh under different circumstances, yet laughter was too far removed from my lips when I bore witness to such a humiliated gaze. It must have sickened her to confide in me of all people, yet there was no one else to help her.

After a while, I scratched my rough chin. "So that's why you looked so much like the queen when I gazed upon her. Then, that would mean that you share blood with the Crown Prince and his sister, aye?" I asked.

Alteria bit her lip, but finally, she sighed. "Yes. They know it, and they detest me for it like so many others do. They are just better at hiding it than everyone else. Yet, their gaze stings the most. The words hurt, the slaps hurt, but their eyes hurt the most. It is a gaze that sees me no higher than the worms that dig through the soil. It is a gaze that sees me when I am needed and thinks I don't exist at all anywhere else. No matter what I do, no matter how loyal my heart tries to be to the empire, it... it is never enough to make them notice that I am not a threat, that I am more than what my birth purposed for me. I wish to be, but I wonder if I ever shall be," she said, turning her back to me.

Unsurprisingly, I sensed the aura of An'raie slowly surge from within me. Even I couldn't help feeling a measure of pity for Alteria. There was something of a kindred spirit in the Hæňgaramian knight that made me sympathize with her. For I'd known such a gaze many times in my own life.

"'Tis the sins of her father that she might bear such a burden from her own people. Perhaps it was easier to deal with when she was away from the growing hostility of her people while she was aboard thine ship. Added to the increasing unrest of the nation as they prepare for war, the usually stern gazes turned more violent as tempers and emotions flared. They turned their frustrations against the only one they could reach," An'raie said to me.

I watched Alteria pick up her sword, staring at its beautiful sheen with a hint of longing in her eyes that I knew I'd have to correct immediately. Were I to leave it there, she'd be lulled right back into the embrace of death.

"Yet, you said supposedly. It be as if you heard two or three separate tales of the encounter. What made you say that?" I asked.

Her silence was a bit of a blessing for me as it gave me the time to quickly peruse Liara's memories. On the daily, she'd received numerous knowledge regarding the current happenings around D'orn and the realms thanks to the numerous workers employed under her. More often than not, they presented the information to Goron who in turn presented it to her.

I found a memory about Alteria's supposed history with Goron telling Liara that Thellka Balamar had become pregnant with a child not of the emperor. The culprit, her father, had been sentenced to the lowest part of the Hæňgaramian prisons where he'd been constantly punished for his transgression.

It apparently sparked enough intrigue in Liara that she'd stationed a few men there to uncover more of the issue. As Alteria spoke, I began to understand that Liara had too discovered this side of the tale. Though my eyes slowly widened in surprise as I delved further and further into the memory, Alteria's words matching it perfectly.

"My father too was a member of the Balamar family. He was set to be the head of the family, and his sister to be the wife of the emperor. Many don't know this, but in the history of the empire, it was the Balamar family who was the first to side with the first king of the lands before Hæňgaram even existed. Supposedly, His Majesty, Lord Aldwyn, is a descendant of the first king which is why many rallied behind him when he started creating his empire. The first king promised and swore upon the land that whether there was King, Emperor, or Ruling Authority, a Balamar would always rule as Queen to the Majesty. Though the land is hardly a kingdom anymore, it's a tradition that the Emperor fully believed in," she said.

Aye, that was sort of true. I went through another memory and found one of King Galrik. He wasn't the first king, but he was as far back as Liara's allowed me to go. He had a Balamar wife named Nanilip. They were claimed to be married by a great tradition as a show of trust for the good fortune presented to them by the Goddess Illum, who Lumnina would replace over the next two thousand years. A few believed Illum and Lumnina to be the same person, but others believed them to be sisters, Illum born to divinity and Lumnina born a mortal who would achieve her divinity later.

I wasn't sure how true this was as Liara never had a record of Lumnina speaking of Illum in any way, shape, or form. Either way, Alteria spoke the truth.

"Of course, not even Balamar honored this forced tradition. There had been a few black scrolls of those who ran away to escape the marriage, especially to be with another loved one. Unfortunately, that didn't happen to my parents. Theirs was a love that was doomed from the start. My father loved my mother, his sister, as a man loves a woman. As I've seen you with your mother. He loved her with all his heart and she loved him too. When they were old enough, they immediately consummated their union. They would rule the Balamar family together. However, it wasn't meant to be," she said.

I stepped forward. "When she was old enough, your mother, Thellka, learned that she would become the wife of the emperor, the wind taken out of her sails, and the treasure to be stolen out of your father's hands. I take it he didn't much appreciate that," I answered, standing next to Lady Knight. She continued to hold her head down, almost afraid of looking at anything else.

"Indeed, he did. However, it was their duty. The Balamar family was known for its regard to duty. My father spent night after night searching through articles to keep my mother away from the hands of another man. All while my mother silently wept as her father, my grandsire, prepared and trained her to wait on the hand of the Emperor. My father was almost willing to do anything to not make it happen, yet the years drew closer and their time together started coming to an end. Yet, they still loved each other. In tragedy, they poured their hearts to each as they slept together, trying to get as much time as they could. Perhaps it was the Will of Lumnina that they not be granted anymore," she said with a pause as I looked at her. She started to tremble, lifting her head to moon, sweat pouring down her face along with her tears.

"My grandfather left on a trip but returned earlier than expected. He wanted to share news with my father. He caught them... in the midst of their act. Had things stayed the same, my mother would have been burned at the stake and my father would have been boiled in hot oil. Instead, my father..." she stood, gritting her teeth and unwilling to continue the story.

She didn't need to. I'd figured it out. "He put on a fucking grand play that ruined the might of his name, but left the lass' intact. They took him and we ready to execute him for defiling your mother, but your mother refused to see him die lest she follow after him. She pleaded them to spare him despite his 'crime' and threw him in the lowest prison. I assume that was the night you were conceived," I said.

"Yes. Royal mages offered to alleviate her suffering of me, but she wouldn't allow it. No one understood why she would keep a scarred memory, but I was told she sang songs to me and read me stories while I slept with her. She soothed me with lullabies and walked about with the greatest smile on her face. When the emperor found out, he allowed it. I was never told why, but then I was born, shouldering the hate of those who knew no better all on a story I'd heard from my father himself. All from the man who told me to not hate my countrymen for his sake, for the sake of what love he had left for the empire," she said.

Now that I hadn't anticipated. I'd assumed someone else had told her but never thought she'd learn from him herself. I had a lot more questions, but Alteria didn't seem like she could hold fast to them. In fact, she dropped to the ground.

"And I killed him. A mask of magic shrouded my father's face and I slew him with my sword in front of the Crown Prince and yet, he... he did not curse me. He did not blame me. Instead, he loved me. He loved me just as he loved my mother. T-That's why I can't find any worth in living. I have nothing left!" she said, no longer caring that I was the one she'd fallen to pieces in front of.

As a Draegnarian, I knew not how to properly comfort such sorrowful wailing. Even An'raie had grown silent while the strong Hæňgaramian turned into a simple woman sailing for more, but not finding any gleaming treasure. All I could do, all I thought was to take my coat and throw it over her head so that none, myself included, would see her brokenness. Though my ears heard, my eyes saw not.

I hadn't counted how long Alteria cried for. Instead, An'raie and I continued to sit, or float, there as the night drew long. However, Alteria slowly stopped her wailing, preferring to stay under the darkness of my coat where none could see her.

After a time, I finally spoke. "Aye, parents. Draegnarians used to tell that there ain't no better gambler in the highest realms or the lowest hells than a fucking parent. Whether they succeed or fail, they leave their bastards with the burden after they be gone. Even when they be alive, they can be molded from the toughest stone that makes you wonder if there be any flesh underneath at all. And yet, still they fucking instill in you all that they can in some way to make sure you ain't gonna be the fuck up that they were, to improve upon what came before, to be granted the freedom to carve your own path and sail the seas of your own life. Should my children pass, I wish them to pass in a different manner from me for that shall be the proof that they were more like me than either of us knew," I replied as I stood, remembering my children who were no longer living.

I cursed Alteria for she'd made me remember them and the fact that I'd likely never see them again. While they were bastards and bitches born of my foolhardy mistakes more often than not, I still loved the little shits all the same. I'd grand them all the treasure of the realms if I could. I wondered what stigma they must have faced being tied to the name of the most powerful pirate to sail the seas of D'orn. Perhaps I'd never know now.

"Whether you wish to live or not, the last person who can give you an answer would be me. Though if you feel there be nothing left to live for, then venture out and discover what shall. Though your military might think otherwise, there be more to D'orn than the empire. I challenge you to discover it for yourself. And, even if you don't wish that, you should at least avenge the death of your father. Swear that you will make the fucker who toyed with you feel double, nay triple the pain that he caused you. If your father really loved this lot enough to forgive any slight or slander against him, what shall you tell him if you're gone and the enemy yet breathes?" I asked.

Alteria didn't respond to my words for a long time. I knew not what she was doing underneath my coat, but I didn't try to peek to gauge. If she left it on, then that meant she really wished it to stay.

"Zevmar is dead. What can I avenge against the dead?" she asked. Her tone was still wrought with grief. I absently noticed the trembling of her arms.

"The plans of the dead can yet still form even while they rot in the ground. If you wish to know more than that, you best hold your head up for now. Zevmar's plans still move and I've no doubt he's conspired with a greater enemy at the doors of your empire. A foe even your father would have hated to his very core," I answered.

I waited for Alteria to respond. After some time, she stood up and tossed me my coat. Her eyes were red from her tears and her forehead was laced with sweat. She still didn't seem any better than when she'd broken down the first time. The fire that I'd seen in her eyes back on Hilvir had dimmed to an almost small flame ready to be snuffed out. Yet, that flame kept burning anyway, its embers not giving way against the suffocating pressure.

"It loathes me to admit it, Eric Drakclaw, but... I don't know if I can," she replied, struggling to not lower her eyes back to the ground.

I smirked. "Aye, well that's what you have me for, Lass. I'll make sure you fucking can," I returned, making her look into my eyes. For all the trouble I'd gone through, I'd not let her fall so easily even if she was a Hæňgaramian.

Finally, she sighed. I wasn't sure whether she believed me or not, but clearly, she knew that she would not be joining her father tonight. "If you don't mind, I'd like to walk back," she voiced with her speech as rough and dry as salt water.

I knew I could just take her and teleport back to our lodgings, but I found myself accepting of her desires. "Aye, fine. Though don't think I'll be leaving you out here alone. Besides, it's best I fill you in on what you missed after your first attempt," I said, throwing my coat over my shoulder and marching back through the woods the way I'd come.

The whole time I felt Alteria's gaze on me. I then sensed her follow after me, the crunch of the leaves beneath her feet. While we walked, we never spoke much. The last few minutes were fresh in both our minds, and I realized that this was one of the few times I'd been truly alone with the Hæňgaramian Knight-Captain. Two natural enemies walked side by side.

"For once, I'd like to hear your voice, Eric Drakclaw. Listening to it means I won't have to listen to my own," she uttered softly. She'd begun lagging behind me which made me slow my pace on numerous occasions.

"Then you be in luck, I'll be talking a lot," I returned. From then on, I told her of what happened to me and the Cult of Alġnoth.

Surprisingly, she showed no visible concern over the name unlike the rest of her countrymen back at Lorentia's table. I offered her several theories about what this could mean. It was likely that Zevmar was a member of this cult and had been tasked with destroying the empire as Alġnoth wished. It was also likely that Zevmar joined with the cult promising them vengeance on the empire for their downfall. There were many possibilities and I'd listed off a few of them.

"The Cult of Alġnoth. I'd thought they were just a legend. I'd not imagined that such a cursed people could exist. It's even more odd that so many priests and priestesses would die forming a symbol of that long, forsaken deity. However, if Zevmar is dead, then shouldn't that be the end of their resistance?" she questioned.

"Lass, unless you've somehow stomped and crushed every damn cockroach in the world of D'orn, more will always crawl through the cracks in your house. However, I wouldn't be so concerned over the matter had Zevmar not successfully infiltrated my mind. While he hadn't gotten much, the might it would take for him to get in would be greater than what D'orn could provide. Ain't no one would go through that much trouble if the resistance ended there," I mentioned.

Finally, I saw the doomed look in Alteria's eyes fade away, if only slightly. Her mind seemed far away as we walked back. "He also said we couldn't stop what's coming. I wonder what that means," she uttered, attempting to piece together the puzzle in her own way.

"Aye, well that's what your little table is consulting right now. They seem to think it nothing worth concern, but you knew of, spoke of, how mighty Zevmar was. Would you think he'd fall so easily?" I asked.

"It is possible, but unlikely. Whether it was myth or not, if it was a threat, the Grand Elder would make sure to investigate it. I don't know whether they wish to make light of the situation to not cause panic, or if they wish you not to meddle in the affairs of the Empire any more than you already have," she answered truthfully.

I rolled my eyes. "You lot be lucky that you're even standing to boast that. Seraphina would have blazed a trail of your countrymen all the way to the capital. Though, I ain't gonna be one to complain. If you think I've done my part, then simply pay me and I'll be on my way. Seeing as you haven't yet, I believe I'm still employed by you," I spoke, letting her listen to every word.

Alteria chuckled. "Is that why you interfered with me? Because I haven't paid you yet?" she asked. Despite the chuckle, I knew there was no mirth in it.

"Think what you will of that question. Though, think wisely, if you wish to test me," I returned. Somehow, that got an even greater chuckle out of her than before. I wasn't sure what she found amusing in my words, but it was her first real laugh in a while.

We continued walking in silence for a time again until Alteria found her next words. "I heard that they would be preparing his body for a traitor's burial. For his crimes, I doubt even his ashes will survive. If we believe something to be wrong, then I think it'd be prudent to simply check his body. You said that he had numerous minor blessings placed upon him. If you surveyed him, could you figure out the problem?" Alteria asked.

I shrugged.

"I'd at least have a better chance than simply guessing as I am now. However, it ain't hard to see that your emperor wasn't expecting my presence on the battlefield. I've no doubt he'll be sending his army to search out my crew when the other business is finished. Plus, he'll have an entire battalion of men protecting the body from any who'd dare get too close. It ain't the easiest feat out there, even for me. Though, I think we be in luck, it seems we won't have to," I answered back much to Alteria's confusion. I looked forward and spotted Lorentia and the Emperor's daughter waiting for us by the building we were currently lodged in.

I noticed Alteria's gaze falter before I swiftly took the reins, lest she collapse back into pieces.

"Awfully late for the two lasses to be standing out here alone, especially the princess of the empire," I said, swiftly gathering their attention to us. Lorentia looked at me with disapproval, Alteria even more so but it didn't take her long to notice the state of Lady Knight.

As for the princess, if she knew, then she clearly didn't care. She approached me quickly. "Is that true? You'd be able to receive answers from in regards to this cult from Zevmar's body? Would it not work with any other body found laid across the bloodied ground that we'd discovered?" she asked.

I snorted. "From the way Aesteal and Maeloson told it to me, the lot weren't much too willing to die at that time. Even if they did know, they wouldn't know as much as he did. Too many tales from different bastards got a way of muddying the waters. Why fish the chumps when you can reel in the sharks?" I questioned back.

The princess and the Grand Elder continued to look at me, the former turning her gaze to Alteria. As expected, Lady Knight kept her eyes on the ground, shaking every now and then as if wondering when her legs would give out.

Luckily, Quinn moved on. "Even with my authority, I'm not able to usurp the command to be near Zevmar's body. Apparently, His Majesty is taking no risks in tampering with exposing the deeds of the traitor to the world. Indeed, I'd enjoy nothing more than to see so many wrongs righted, but if there is indeed a grander scheme at hand, one that Zevmar's death was needed to accomplish, then I will take that risk. Fortunately, we have someone who has the authority," she said, turning her eyes to the Grand Elder.

When I turned to Lorentia, I found myself oddly thrilled by the idea of this plan. "Be that as it may, I doubt even your Grand Elder's gonna just walk into the place they're holding Zevmar's body with a group and not look suspicious," I replied.

The Princess of the Empire turned around. "Should you do your part without any of your boisterous tendencies then there shall be no one to be suspicious of anything. We move out immediately. You have ten minutes," she said as she walked away, the Grand Elder not too far behind her.

"Grand Elder..." Alteria called out, her voice barely enough for Quinn to here. From her tone, it seemed like that was all the strength she could muster.

Lorentia turned around and addressed Alteria. "Speak, Knight-Captain," she said, her eyes sharp, yet merciful. It took Alteria a few moments to catch her breath, but she finally spoke.

"The impostor who was killed. What was done with his body?" she asked.

I noticed the Grand Elder's gaze tighten. She turned around, but not fast enough for me to miss that look of pity that flashed across her face like lightning through the sky. " He has been buried out with the other criminals and enemy soldiers. I had not gotten to him fast enough. Even if I were alone, I would have granted him a Hæňgaramian funeral," she said as she walked away, leaving Alteria and I alone.

Just like that, Alteria's strength was gone. She seemed less like a human and more like a wandering spirit, aimlessly following after me as we went inside. I thought to say something, but somehow I doubt it'd make a shred of difference. I knew it hadn't for me when I found out my mother died and I knew not where.

We came up to Alteria's room, the two lasses of my ship that I'd paid still guarding it. "There you are! Where the hell have you been?" one of them questioned to Alteria.

She didn't answer. Instead, she opened and closed the door, leaving the two greatly confused. They looked to me for answers, but I only had one. "It's been a long night. Leave her be for now," I ordered.

"Yes, Sir. We'll try not to lose her this time," the other said firmly as I waved them off. I continued my walk up the pristine stairs of the complex for the male knights until I returned to my room. I opened the door and spotted the women of my bed still sleeping.

Not having the heart to wake them, I gently pulled out my chair and wrote them a note. Checking over everything that I had, and gathering my rapier, I set out from my quarters. While I hoped not shit would start tonight, I knew my luck when it came to avoiding matters like this.

It was shit. Big, rotten shit.

I passed by Alteria's room once more with the girls guarding it. When questioned about her, they simply shrugged their shoulders and continued about their business. I descended down the stairs, rolling my neck slowly. I'd not expected to deal with all of this so late into the night. Sometimes, I wondered if I ought to just take Ellen and my crew's advice and just sail until I saw neither sight nor sound of Hæňgaramians. I certainly thought I'd dealt with them enough.

By the time I exited the building, I realize I wasn't alone in the forest. Frowning, I spotted Maeloson. Everything but his eyes and long ears were covered by a black garb. "And where do you think you're going?" I questioned, albeit amused. Though, I lost my jovial tone when I noticed the glare in Maeloson's eyes.

"I would like to go with you, Sir. I hope to find some answers as well. Amongst the bodies of those killed by Zevmar, there was an elf from my lands. He was a warrior counselor for the kingdom. Though I didn't know him personally, I'd seen him around through the high meetings conducted by the council and the king. I'm not sure why he'd ally with someone like Zevmar, but I hoped I'd gain some insight... even if it's not a part of my life anymore," he replied.

This was amongst one of the few times that I'd seen worry and distress mar Maeloson's face. He looked at me resolutely, his eyes pleading that I accept his words.

"'Twould not be a terrible thing to bring the elf. As thine work tonight is spiritual in nature, having this one would be a great boon to thee," An'raie said, surprising me. I'd not thought that she would take Maeloson's side unless it served her interests in some way.

"And what will you do with those answers if you find them?" I asked.

Even though his mouth was covered by the mask on his face, I knew he was frowning beneath it. "I'm not entirely sure yet. However, I don't think it'll impede your voyage if you let me investigate it. If this elf was in league with Zevmar, then it's possible more of my people were in league with him and the cult. I'd rather not believe such a thing which is why I wished to investigate for myself, lest more of the kingdom find you as an enemy," he answered.

I found that to be a rather plausible answer. If Fgg'rial did have some connection to the Cult of Alġnoth, then perhaps it was worth an investigation as well. I wasn't sure whether to be amused or annoyed that Maeloson and Aesteal were starting to work out how best to deal with me.

"Very well. I can't say your words are a bit of honey to my ears. However, if there indeed be a less simple matter beyond this, then I think you'll know what to do," I answered, making him nod.

"I understand," he uttered.

Seeing that, I called for him to follow me before I heard noises coming from the front of the building's main lobby. Maeloson and I turned around just as the door opened. I noticed Alteria come through with the lasses guarding her not far behind. Alteria was fully dressed in her armor with her sword on her hip. She tried to appear strong when she looked at me, but I could tell she still barely hanging on.

"...I'd like to go with you tonight," she said before she was grabbed from behind.

"Fucking dammit, is it really that hard to stay in your damn room and not give us trouble? You look like you can hardly stand let alone assist the Cap'n!" one of them said, struggling to pull her back inside. Yet, Alteria resisted with what might she still held onto.

"...please," she muttered. If I recalled right, I bet that was the first time the lass had ever begged me of anything. Hell, I wondered if that was the first time any Hæňgaramian had asked a Draegnarian pirate of anything.

Just before the two pushed Alteria back inside, I held up my hand. "Aye, alright. Best we not wake anymore of the masses surrounding us," I said, making the struggling stop.

The two women released Alteria and she walked down the steps until she stood in front of me. To her credit, she held my gaze longer than I thought she might, but she faced away from it in the end.

"I must go. I... I can hold it together for now. No, I will hold it together and then I'll find my father. I'll bury him as befitting a Hæňgaramian. As I have the confidence to say this in front of you and no other, I shall do that no matter what the Emperor or any other superior believes," she said.

"Had you said that in front of the princess and Grand Elder, I have no doubts you'd be beheaded where you stand. Best you be sure if you're up for this, it could be even more trouble than your battle from before," I countered.

Given what she'd just gone through only a few moments prior to this, I sure as hell didn't believe that she ought to be in a condition for battle. I'd seen plenty of bitches and bastards ride the high and tumultuous waves of emotion, only to be drowned by them in the end, I being one of them. It was only thanks to Nei and An'raie that my second life here hadn't ended in utter failure.

"...I am honestly not sure. Even now, just standing is... hard for me, but I shall do it in the name of my father. If nothing else, I shall make sure the place he loved even unto death will remain standing. Perhaps that way, I'll be able to greet him satisfied and approved," she returned, making sure I heard every word.

Finally, she looked at me and I saw the fire behind her eyes still burning. It wasn't a big one, but it was much stronger than what had been there an hour or two ago. "If that be the case, then what need have you to ask me for permission? I ain't your leader. Best you go tell her then," I answered.

Alteria gave a small smile. "...Yes. Perhaps I should," she said as she moved past Maeloson and I. She disappeared into the forest's roads that led down the hill.

"Thee truly believeth this to be a wise motion?" An'raie asked.

"No, I do not. However, I be a pirate. To sail upon the seas and try to conquer it ain't a wise move either. It be a stupid matter that only the insane try. Yet, it is also the insane who gave the chance to line their pockets with the treasures of men. Wasn't that the case when you attempts your pursuits into the ways of Necromancy?" I questioned.

I didn't receive an answer as An'raie fell silent. I turned back to the two women waiting at the door. "It seems I've stolen your assignment, so I'll give you a new one. This'll be much easier than the last," I said.

"Just say the words, Captain!" one of them said.

I gave them their orders and they saluted me, waving Maeloson and I off as we walked down the side of the hill. By the time we made it to the front gate, we spotted Alteria speaking with the Grand Elder. The little princess stood off to the side, appearing a little apprehensive at having the ostracized Hæňgaramian around.

"With all due respect, Grand Elder, there is nothing the Empire can do that'll bring me lower than I feel right now. You have my word that I shall not be a hindrance," Alteria said before we were noticed.

"You weren't supposed to bring more," Quinn stated, glancing at Maeloson while I laughed.

"Don't think I haven't noticed the third member of your entourage moving through the trees. She ain't as sneaky as she believes. Now, what say we move while Selene still rests in the sky?" I questioned before I saw Quinn frown.

"You'd do well to not speak of that heathen goddess in our lands. Let's move," Quinn said as the doors slowly opened. The soldiers guarding the door saluted the Grand Elder and the Princess of the Empire as we made our way out.

We left Lorentia's training grounds and walked through the less-traveled roads leading through the city. "While I'm loathed to give a pirate this information, there is an opening to the castle through the river that flows across the open channel. The waters can get very deep and rough during the night which is why only our sturdiest ships patrol its waves. My father built the palace around it because it was a good fortification against spies. Even our more sea-seasoned warriors are reluctant to patrol those parts for extended periods. We shall enter through the hidden door at the bottom of the floor. We can pass by most of the palace forces as we head to where Zevmar's been stored," she answered.

"And what of your straggler?" I questioned.

The princess didn't answer me immediately. She seemed to debate whether or not to give any information, choosing to do so after a while. "She has another purpose," Quinn said.

My eyes darted to the right. The shadows lay in the darkness between the houses. Deep in those crevices, I saw the way the shadows moved. They weren't natural at all. I briefly spotted two ruby-like eyes glance in my direction. I quickly recognized those eyes as the same I'd seen on the elven woman who fought that Sairan swordmaster back on Draegnar.

For but a moment, she locked eyes with me. She studied me as I studied her until the moment had passed. Those eyes disappeared into the shadows as if they'd never been there in the first place. When I turned my head I noticed that Maeloson had seen her as well. He then looked forward, seeing no need to bring the woman's presence to light of anyone else.

The walk toward the open rivers of Ynro's channels wasn't a leisurely one. I stared at the sky as the circulating magic started to grow more and more powerful. I tried interrupting what I could, but it started to get out of hand even for me. I was draining mana faster than I could disrupt the runes swirling about in the air.

It got to such a point that even Maeloson and Alteria took notice of it. "Your Highness, I believe we should hurry. The air is rich with the arcane, and its growing more and more turbulent," Alteria advised.

Quinn and Lorentia glanced at her for only a moment. They looked into the air and immediately they shivered. "That's not possible," Quinn muttered, no doubt feeling the powerful energies of the arcane swirling about.

"Aye, you've begun to sense it because you've been enhanced to deal with Sekria. Had you not, it would have taken you much longer to sense the danger you're in. Luckily, it just seems to be swirling about like the air around us. It's just waiting for a bitch or bastard to grab hold of and command it," I answered.

I saw the younger half-sister of Alteria scowl. She quickly put her hands to her mouth and fired off a series of chirps into the air, increasing their range with her magic. To anyone else, they might just be the sounds of any bird flying through the air.

"Then make haste we will. We need the Grand Elder if we're going to make be authorized through," she said, walking us faster.

I lagged behind as I swiftly chanted a spell, linking my mind with Aesteal's. "Aesteal, wake up. I have need of you," I answered.

"Yes, sir?" she questioned tiredly.

"Wake the others and ready your weapons. If I ain't back in an hour or two, be prepared for a mighty battle!" I warned. Immediately, I felt Aesteal shake the sleep away, her aura becoming more and more active.

"Understood. Shall I inform the agents currently stationed in Ynro?" she questioned.

"No need. I have two helpful volunteers for that," I answered, ceasing the link after my words were spoken.

After some time, we made it down to the edge of the deep river. As Quinn said, the waters were rash and unsettled. Of course, I could have settled them if I wished, but it made no difference to me.

"I believe this is where you come in, pirate," The princess said.

I stepped in front of the group and snorted. "Then best you not lag behind, princess," I returned as my boots met with the water. I waved my hand and parted the river, walking into it while the others fell into step behind me. Further and further we went until the sea closed around us.

Let me tell you that there ain't a much greater joy than seeing the amazed faces of two normally stoic women of the empire. They stared in wonder of the sealife below the waves as I kept the waters from consuming us. Of course, they never spoke any of this amazement out loud. I bet it'd shame them as soldiers of the empire if they found any amusement at the hands of a pirate.

The walk was much shorter than I thought it was as the young princess of the empire continued to guide all of us to the spot. We came upon the empire's mighty walls and I quickly noticed the magic covering the door. Quinn held up her hand.

"Akan umishbauk naruzu. Ghilhan Betmidt!" she chanted, releasing her magic over the side of the palace walls. With a slow rumble, the illusion was cast away and the door appeared in front of us. Lorentia, using the key for the door, opened it and guided us in. Aye, not so surprising that she would have the means to open it as the Grand Elder ought to have a key to every important door aside from the empire's bed chambers. I bet she'd be more than happy to visit them though.

I kept the waves back as Lorentia closed the door. With the last vestiges of light, I spotted a set of perfectly marbled stairs. Then, everything was shrouded in darkness for only a moment. Quinn quickly illuminated the walls around us with a ball of light magic.

"Come," she ordered, her steps echoing through the long passageways of the palace. We followed after her and immediately I knew there was the smell of shit in the air.

I sensed nary a soul around the lower levels. Aye, Quinn informed me that no one except certain soldiers was given permission to guard Zevmar's corpse, but I thought there were far too few soldiers around to be guarding such a prized piece like she claimed.

"Sir, I smell blood," Maeloson warned.

I did as well. The stench was strong on our noses. It also didn't help that I had An'raie warning me of the same thing.

"I smell it as well," Alteria said. Lorentia swiftly grabbed her sword as the light of the moon quickly started to illuminate the lower halls of the palace through the windows. Quinn dropped her ball and ushered us against the wall.

"Yes, I have authority on this floor. There were dozens of soldiers patrolling the corridors. Now, there's no one here. It's almost... dead," Quinn replied.

"'Twould be best to inform her that her suspicions are true. I hear the voice of the wretched souls as they are taken away and sacrificed to demons. Upon their souls is a curse, one that shall not wither away easily," An'raie said.

I stepped out from behind the wall, sensing no one waiting to ambush us. Despite the uncertainty, I couldn't deny the thrill in these circumstances. "Seems someone had the same idea we did, albeit more direct. I don't think we'll be needing the Grand Elder's authority after all," I said.

Quinn glanced back at Lorentia. She was ready to say something before Maeloson spoke first.

"I hear voices, and groanings far below the floor. It feels like hundreds, maybe thousands of voices," he said. He quickly grabbed the two swords strapped to his back. Alteria blew away an unsteady breath and released her sword from its sheath as well.

I saw Lorentia glance to the left, most likely the way that we were supposed to go. "Eric Drakclaw, are there soldiers on the upper floors?" she asked.

"Aye, many of your dutiful soldiers run the upper halls of the palace," I returned.

The Grand Elder gained a thoughtful look before she closed her eyes. "...Galadard was supposed to meet us here. I had him as part of the detail guarding this section of the palace. If he's fallen, then it's clear the palace is under attack. The enemy must be formidable if they could get past our defenses so swiftly," she mentioned until she turned back to the rest of us.

"Your Highness, I believe this is the time to change course. We..."

"There be no need. Besides, if you want your forces to remain alive, then best to keep them away from Maeloson and I," I interrupted, gathering everyone's attention. I wasn't sure how Lorentia or Quinn took my threat, but I cared not. Instead, I swiftly sat on the floor while I felt An'raie depart from my body.

"Never known you to be so interested in affairs like this," I jested in my thoughts, letting my mana swirl around me.

"'Tis not every day that I stumble upon the Arts of Nekkros. 'Twould be a shame to lose such valuable material once the body is destroyed. I believe mine way shall prove less of a hassle than thine," An'raie said as my consciousness melded with hers, allowing me to see what she saw. She passed through the floor effortlessly, and I with her.

We descended far into the lower floors of the palace. Reaching one of the lower floors, I frowned as An'raie floated over a room filled with the groaning bodies of about 50 to 100 decaying Hæňgaram corpses. Of them all, I spotted Galadard, one of the personal attendants to the Grand Elder. His eyes were a soulless blue and his teeth looked rotten to the core. The air was thick with the scent of black magic.

"Such inane attempts at Nekkros' mystic arts. They are as children suckling in the breast of their mothers. 'Tis even a disgrace to consider these mages as practitioners of mine craft," An'raie said in annoyance.

She flew past the room and into one of the corridors where the magic was heaviest. Unsurprisingly, there was a group of five mages standing around glowing magic matrix. They chanted words to each other while they were guarded by the enemy, each of them wearing the fallen armor of the soldiers in the other room. On their foreheads and hands were the symbol of the Cult of Alġnoth.

"Least you won't lack for materials," I reasoned which made An'raie huff.

"The material these would provide wouldest be minimal at best. However, thee maketh a good point. Mine studies have fallen short while we have continued this venture upon these Lands of Eglaba. For what occupation is one that researcheth only under optimal conditions?" she questioned while I hummed. I never thought I'd hear of the lands the Empire used to be over 4,000 years ago.

Swiftly, An'raie walked over to one of the enemy guards. Her ghastly handed pulsed with a misty green glow. Even as I watched her, I felt the tingling sensations as she bypassed the warrior's armor. In fact, her hand slipped into his body and settled right into his head.

"Buntime Hajuk Casiin Te Ul," An'raie chanted as she released the poisonous, magic spread into his heart. She then slipped away and did the same thing to the other guards standing around the mages. I'd begun to learn that An'raie had a bigger cruel streak in her than I'd thought. Even though I couldn't see her eyes behind her mask, the smirk on her face and the elation I felt from her was unlike anything I'd seen or felt before.

Once her work was finished, she observed. First, there was coughing. One by one, those infected by her magic started to go into rapid bouts of violent coughing.

"Keep quiet! Have you any idea how much mana and concentration this spell takes?!" One of the leading mages asked.

"And thine efforts for such appalling work shalt indeed be rewarded," An'raie replied.

The coughing got stronger and harder. "I-I don't feel... so... g-g-g-good. S-Something i-inside," one of the cultists uttered as he started to cough out dark green spouts of blood. He grew sicker and sicker as he started scratching at his skin.

The others followed after him until their groans of men turned into moans of monsters. Their bones pierced out of their bodies as their necks snapped back. Their souls weren't even permitted the sweetness of death as An'raie gathered them in her embrace, burning them in red flames.

The room turned into chaos as the mages screamed. They tried to cast spells, but it was easy for An'raie to curse them, her vile magic spreading through the air and infecting them just as the others. In the madness, their skin and meat fell from their bones. Whatever defense they tried to muster, it didn't matter as the magic controlling the Hæňgaram dead was unsealed. The groans of the dead became louder as they charged into the room, joined by the skeletal figures.

It didn't take long for the reinforcements to show up, but An'raie didn't seem perturbed. Instead, she swiftly took control of the dead and coordinated their assault. I watched as other mages fired spells at the dead, but An'raie's mastery was unparalleled at the moment. It was easy for her to reinforce her army with magic barriers, and make them strong enough to resist any blade. One grab from a skeleton's corrosive touch was enough to make men scream like children, haunting the lower palace halls. A few proved more talented than others, those An'raie saved for her special collection. I supposed there were worse things than to be a slave to a necromancer as powerful as her.

As the battle settled, I saw An'raie had left one alive, her army holding her down. "Lord Alġnoth, I shall be delivered into hands soon enough. May thy will be done upon these vile heretics!" she prayed before An'raie walked over to her.

"Alish!" An'raie cast, gripping the young woman's head. The woman screamed in ways I might not have imagined as her soul was ripped out of her body. The Lonely Wail then opened her maw and devoured the soul of the woman. Her body dropped dead and joined An'raie's legion.

"Thou art free to rest easily. 'Twould seem that this was all they sent to battle aside from two journeying further beneath the palace. They hath not located Zevmar yet, but they require him for a sort of 'holy' ritual," she spoke, no doubt gathering that knowledge from the woman she'd eaten.

"It always be a rather rare sight to see the abilities you perfected over those thousands of years," I said, watching her army roam around aimlessly.

"Thine compliments are unneeded, though welcome," she said before she released her spell. Unlike the cult mages, once An'raie was finished with her warriors they did not continue roaming around. Without her power, they were not but flesh waiting to rot and bones waiting to turn to the dust of the earth.

After that, I returned to my body with An'raie behind me. When I opened my eyes, I saw the others patiently waiting for me. "Your elf heard the noise, and we sensed the magic. What news do you bring?" Quinn asked.

I stood up and urged the others to follow me. "Well, you can rest assured that all but two of the agents in this palace have been taken care of. It seems they had the same idea that we did. Apparently, Zevmar's needed for some sort of ritual. Luckily, they haven't found the fucker yet, but clearly, they were preparing to take the palace. If this lot be here, then it's clear that more of them are hidden in Ynro," I said as Quinn stepped next to me.

"Yes. We assumed as much when the Church of Lumnina after you parted that knowledge of the forsaken god to us. If even the capital has enemies within, then that's all the more reason to snuff them out," she urged which made the Grand Elder clear her throat.

"Yes, Your Highness. However, consider the matter a moment. In spite of this assault, we haven't heard or seen any movement from them until now. I believe they are waiting for this ritual to be completed so that they might come upon the capital. I've already prepared a warning to go out into the guard should this matter turn even more unpleasant. Though I wish otherwise, I shall rely on the pirate's knowledge of the forces below. Should we handle these two and cease this ritual, then I pray there to be no need to alarm the public," she replied.

"I believe there is another curious matter. If they are this involved that they can infiltrate even the emperor's palace, how is it that they aren't aware of where Zevmar's being held? Should they not have had a proper guess before storming in here?" Alteria questioned.

Quinn frowned. "It was the execution. Zevmar's body is set to burn in mere hours with the rising of the sun. They can't afford to wait should they require him for a ritual. Given that they know it's down here, I'd say they received enough intel," she answered back, her mood clearly growing more and more tense as time went by.

Once we made it to the bottom of the steps, I quickly turned my eyes to Lorentia. "If by any means you can't handle what lies beyond this corridor, then you'd best keep your eyes closed," I warned.

The Grand Elder eyed me curiously. She looked at the unwelcoming corridor, unease starting to settle on her face. Maeloson scrunched up his nose as did Alteria. No doubt they could smell the blood and rotting flesh. Unfortunately, unless they had another way of getting to the place where Zevmar was held, we'd have to go through there.

I was the first to step inside, already knowing what to expect. Maeloson followed after me. We walked through the corridor of dead Empire soldiers and enemy mages. Once we came to the end of the hall, I noticed the lack of steps behind us.

Turning around, I saw the three Hæňgaramian women staring into the room like they stared at the door of Haganthar itself. Lorentia stepped in first, surveying everything as the frown on her face got deeper and deeper. Her eyes were like those of any leader who saw the devastation of their men.

Finally, she came upon Galadard's corpse. "Galadard..." she said, kneeling before him. I noticed that even though Maeloson was bothered by the smell, still he stayed to observe the three of them.

Lorentia held Galadard's body in her arms. She then took his sword and placed it between his fingers. Laying it on his chest, she gently laid him down. "You've served the Emperor well, Galadard. You and all your men. May you find peace in the arms of Lumnina until her grace and justice fill the world forevermore," she said as she saluted him.

On the other side, Quinn graced the fallen with a small prayer. If there was one thing I respected about this stiff-necked lot, it was their honor of the dead. Many think a pirate wouldn't know how to respect the dead, but when it be one's own crew, there was no higher honor than letting them become one with the sea.

As for Alteria, to my surprise, she was the most even of the three. Aye, there were shades of sadness within her, but not nearly as much as I assumed there ought to be. Of course, it be hard to shed tears for someone when you've been tormented by their wrath for so long.

Though she did not cry, Alteria silently offered a prayer as well. Once she was done, she joined Maeloson and I. In fact, she left the room entirely, unwilling to even hazard a second glance.

"Justice shall be mete out and they shall be given the highest honor under my name as the Princess of the Hæňgaram. You have my word, Grand Elder Lorentia," Quinn said.

"Yes, it would bring dishonor to their sacrifice should we not press on," Lorentia said as they rejoined us.

We walked through the Empire's underground hallways, our steps echoing through the void. "This way," Lorentia said, turning us down a separate corridor. We followed after her, continuing to listen out for the other two mages. An'raie had been going out as far as she could to search them out.

As for me, I felt rather uneasy given that not even I could sense them. Surely they should have had some water in their bodies that I could make use of, but either they were too far away or they had other means of hiding from me. If they were in league with Zevmar, then I supposed this was one of the reasons he meant saying I wouldn't be a concern.

Either way, Lorentia guided us into what I assumed was a study room. She grabbed a book off the shelf and cut her palm with a knife. Spilling it on the book, I sensed the Hæňgaramian magic fill the air. When she put the book back, the bookcase moved to the side revealing a magic matrix.

Upon seeing it, I chuckled. "I'll give you lot credit. You're craftier than I thought," I said, understanding what this magic circle was supposed to be used for.

"What this for?" Alteria questioned.

Lorentia cleared her throat. "This is a special circle that was crafted in the early days of the palace's construction. It will take us where we need to go. It is one of the many measures we have against forces attempting to usurp or conquer the empire. Only a few of them in select locations are hidden throughout the palace. With but a thought it shall travel you to anywhere in the palace, within reason," she said.

I quickly felt the princess' gaze on me. "Even with circumstances being as dire as they are, I hesitate to share such knowledge with a pirate," Quinn said.

"As do I, Your Highness. However, I fear we're relying on him to keep the palace standing and for the rest of the empire to not fall into chaos. Besides, I dare say he already knows what it does," Lorentia claimed. Quinn looked at me in disbelief, but it mattered not to me. I indeed knew what it was even without Liara's knowledge. I'd seen similar designs in a few buried kingdoms filled with treasure stores. No doubt Hæňgaram had taken these designs and modified them for their own use.

Lorentia powered the circle as I watched the runes of magic fall into place. Light enveloped us all for only a second before we were taken to another part of the palace's underground. We were inside another study and Lorentia led us out.

As soon as we stepped out, I noticed how cold it was before she guided us through another corridor, this one filled with numerous statues of forgotten Hæňgaram knights. Upon closer inspection, I noticed that these were all men and women of Hæňgaramian's early history, even before the empire was an empire. Above each of their heads was a sculpted plaque with a signet ring on it.

We turned a corner and at the end of the hallway was a door ripe with frost magic. My blade hummed for its magic, yet I stayed my hand. "I see no traps or enemies. It seems we made it," Maeloson said.

Lorentia touched the side of the wall. There was a smaller magic circle filled with numerous illusion arrays and magic traps. No doubt they were put there to keep anyone from kidnapping the bastard's body. Though, I wasn't sure how useful they'd be at such a low level.

"This frost magic was utilized by a giant frost beast that we'd gathered from the Draegnar auction. Just studying his body has yielded research that many claim will turn the world of magic on its head. As expected, its fortune did as the pirate suggested. Such a prize wasn't capable of being kept without action," The Grand Elder said as she opened the door.

"I shall guide Eric Drakclaw inside. Guard the exterior should the other two appear," she ordered.

Quinn agreed as did Maeloson and Alteria. We then walked inside and she closed the door behind me. Behind the door were prison cells, ice clawing at their steel bars.

"Here he is. I'd prefer to not open the cage, but... I can make an exception," Lorentia said as I spotted Zevmar's corpse lying on a white sheet under the touch of the cold. His hair had been shaved off and his chest was marked with black ink.

Miktaak, the Hæňgaram word for 'Traitor' was labeled on his chest.

"Aye, this be fine. Never thought a bastard who caused so much shit could look so damned peaceful," I said as An'raie flew about through the air. She glared at Zevmar's body, disgusted by something that I wasn't sure of.

"What better peace is there than death for some?" Lorentia asked as I exhaled slowly.

Channeling mana to my eyes, I activated the Mark of Hoɖ while An'raie merged her soul with mine. "IItaalk Milpik Hannoon!" An'raie chanted as I got to work trying to deconstruct the magic surrounding Zevmar so that she might have a chance to pull his soul of out his body.

As expected of one of the twenty marks, I managed to break one of the blessings before I moved on to the next one. Unfortunately, I wasn't expecting my surroundings to suddenly turn blacker than the void itself.

I stood, or rather floated, in a sea of darkness before I heard a small chuckle.

"So you're the rodent that's been hassling my plans. Hahahahhaha, and here I thought no one had such nerve since the Scarlet Witch. First Sekria, then the war, then Zevmar, and now even my followers. It seems she was right that I need be interested in you. I don't often meet children of time. Most don't even survive the powerful and deadly process it takes to perform such spells."

I frowned as I looked left and right. However, it was only when I looked down that I saw myself floating above a giant eye radiating with so much magic that I thought I might go insane looking at it. I desired to turn my head away, close my eyes even but the image was burned into my head and, somehow, I knew that the only thing keeping me from being overtaken was the Mark of Hoɖ that Liara gave me.

As much as I hated it, I couldn't discount the gaze upon me, the gaze of a fiercely powerful spirit. Some might call the bastard a diety or what have you but they all be a shit lot to me.

"Aye, well I be known to survive fucked up shit. It's good to know my actions have pestered a disgraced god such as yourself. Tell me, were you really so starved for Lumnina's shiny cunt that you had to cause such a fucking mess? Even Draegnar has more order," I returned as I saw the eye glare at me. A harsh blast of mana made my body shiver

"What is order but clothes of naked chaos? Given that you can resist me like this, I see that the stench isn't misplaced. Your eyes radiate with power even more ancient than my own. The Eyes That Dispel Truth, the Mark of Hoɖ. You've graced the chambers of Liara Ilzahold. No, I have known a few men and women to share her bed. Yet, she has not given any of them an honor such as this. Not even me! Yet, you, a mortal, would find the pleasure of her touch. What is it about you that's so special?" the eye asked as I laughed.

"Ain't nothing special about a bastard other than the fortune he brings by his own hand. Now, since I don't need Zevmar anymore, how about I get you to talk then? What do you think you're doing in the empire, Alġnoth?" I questioned.

The eye looked at me, a malicious chuckle filling my head. "Do not call my name so casually, mortal. I have seen things and experienced wonders the likes that you cannot comprehend. Were it not for the Mark of Hoɖ, you'd easily be consumed by my great power. Besides, this land and its people were mine in the first place. I'm taking back what's mine. Surely, even you can see the honor in that. In fact, was your throne in your first life taken from you? Taken away by your beloved and your former crew?" Alġnoth fired back.

The smile on my face fell. Even without a face to connect that goddamn eye to, I just saw the smile etched on Alġnoth's damn face. "Now you seek to reclaim it all and gather your revenge. Is that not what I'm doing as well? I am not your enemy, Eric Drakclaw. In fact, why don't you join me? Whatever the Empire has promised you pales into comparison to what I can provide, and my followers are everywhere, even in places you might not realize. I can help deliver you to your vengeance. I can even give you the world, to sail where you please. You're a mortal of lavish tastes, just like I am. I believe we can-"

"If you be wantin' your cock shoved up a bastard's ass so badly, then start with your own. My vengeance shall be my own, and I shall conquer the world and the realms by my own hand. Besides, if you have more than the Empire does, then I'll just fucking take it from you," I interrupted, nary a smile on my face. While this was nice to shut the bastard up, I knew I'd have to make this quick. The Mark of Hoɖ, unsurprisingly, was draining a lot of my mana. I couldn't recall a time that I'd needed to have it active for so long.

Alġnoth didn't respond for a few moments until I heard his small laughs in my head. "And does he speak for you as well, An'raie of Tilroth?" Alġnoth asked as I felt the Lonely Wail stir behind me. Unfortunately, I couldn't turn my gaze away from the eye lest the disgraced god overwhelm me before I could react.

"While you might not be as formidable as Liara Ilzahold, even tales of your prowess as a mage were on the lips of men when my followers flourished. I understand that you too are on a tale of vengeance, against a man whom you loved as well. You've entered into a pact with this mortal, tying your soul to his. I find a little surprising that you would enter into a deal with another man when the first hurt you so severely, abandoning you for centuries, staved of the world's most delectable pleasures," he said.

I felt pain as An'raie's anger quickly started to spark. There was nothing keeping her restrained like last time on Delverhold. If she wished to be free of me, then she could easily do it. The pain would be excruciating for me, to have my soul ripped apart so severely, but it was within her power.

"If you must join with a man, then why not join with me? Compared to the man beside you I have known pleasures you would never have thought possible. I also know where Ondolor is. It's been a few years, but it would take less than a snap of my fingers to lead you to him. There, with my power, you may exact all the rage that is in your heart. There's no point in trying to hide it, Necromancer. It rolls off you just as much as Eric Drakclaw. Follow him, and you shall never have what you desire," Alġnoth finished as I sensed the great turmoil within An'raie. Our soulbound status was starting to come apart as my vision blurred. I thought I might go unconscious, the pain hitting me like a thousand blades.

Even as I felt sweat fall from my forehead, I kept my eyes trained on the giant eye of Alġnoth. There was glee behind that stare, just waiting for me to close my eyes for longer than a blink so that he could advance upon me.

Then, like it didn't even exist in the first place, the pain was gone. "Thee maketh me a child in thine eyes, Alġnoth. Thee thinketh me unlearned in thine ways. Mine eyes hath read and mine ears hath read of thine salacious and violent methods. The manspawn is a preferable partner to thee. Mine fury shalt be mete to the Betrayer in due time. As thee hath spoken, I have waited for centuries. I couldest stand a few decades or more. Taketh thine honeyed words elsewhere, they sicken me," An'raie replied, her anger still very much prevalent. However, with the pain gone, our soulbound link remained steady.

"...hehehehehHAHAHAHAHAHA! A mortal man better than me? I never took you as a jester, An'raie. However, it seems you need convincing. You both do. Very well, I shall leave my mark on your minds... and on the empire you so desperately wish to save! It's a shame Zevmar couldn't do all that I'd planned, but he's done enough!"

There were times in a man's life when he felt the uneasy tension of threats that were too good to ignore. I'd encountered many of them in my first and in this one. Yet, this one was right up there with Ỗxa.

The eye faded away and my surroundings returned. Finally free, I deactivated the Mark of Hoɖ, stumbling back into Lorentia's arms. "What happened? Your eyes are bleeding," she said as I resisted the urge to spill the contents of my dinner over the fucking floor.

"Shit happened! Fucking shit happened!" I exclaimed as I swiped a finger over one of my eyes. When I opened them, I saw that her words rang true as my blood stained my finger.

Lorentia ripped a piece of her clothing and handed it to me, letting me wipe my eyes with it. "I never got to Zevmar. Instead, I got the damn bastard behind it all. You can rest assured Alġnoth's got it out for you lot," I returned.

The Grand Elder was less than enthused. "You saw him?" she questioned.

"Aye, more like he saw me though. You best be prepared cause..."

Whatever I was gonna say next died in my throat when Lorentia and I heard loud banging on the door. "Lorentia, make haste! Ynro's bells toll over the capital! It could be an enemy attack!" Quinn said from the other side of the door.

I couldn't properly tell what kind of face Lorentia made, but she quickly placed my arm over her shoulder and walked me to the door. When she opened it, Maeloson looked started. "What happened?" he asked.

"Later," I said as I stilled. I gazed at the ceiling and so did Maeloson and Alteria.

"Something's coming. It's great magic, powerful magic. Magic I never thought possible!" Alteria uttered while Maeloson growled.

"It's the same as that spell back on Delverhold, no... even stronger!" my male elf claimed.

"It is Alġnoth. I sense his magic. He is... summoning himself. This type of spell is used for summoning powerful beings," An'raie replied in the depths of my thoughts, making my blood run cold.

...I fucking hated today.

Our group moved hastily through the underground parts of the castle, leaving Zevmar's useless body behind. With Lorentia's method of teleporting us, it didn't take us long to get out of the castle. Though I was a tad weak, I still managed to get us back to the beach we'd started on.

When we made it, we all stared up at the sky.

"By Lumnina's grace," Quinn uttered as we watched a magic portal appear high over the empire, one wide enough to cover at least half the capital if need me. The clouds gathered around it and the firmament of the sky seemed to bend itself to the circle's will. Red and purple strikes of lightning flashed through the sky as the sound of a thousand peals of thunder ran through the air.

I quickly reached into my pocket and pulled out a mana potion. Once my mana was filled, I used the Mark of Hoɖ. Never had I seen so many runes flying about in chaotic directions. Yet, even in the chaos they seemed to make sense. I tried to stop them as best I could, but their power was far beyond me. Just taking apart one was more energy than I wished to give.

Even as I worked, my ears picked up on the sounds of the Hæňgaram citizenry. They screamed through the once-peaceful capital as soldiers moved into action. Ynro came alive with the magic of its, and other allied, mages. Yet, I wondered what they might think when they saw a giant hand slowly appear out of the magic circle, its form as red as scarlet and its nails like burnished onyx.

"What is that?!" Quinn questioned.

"The hand of a disgraced god!" I returned as I took myself off Lorentia. I then made the waters beneath the Ynro tremble by my might. The seas grew unruly and violent. I jumped back into the water and gathered it to me. With the tempest swirling, I fired myself into the air.

Alteria stilled. "Where are you going?"

"To keep your damn kingdom from becoming like Taptos," I returned as I propelled myself into the air. I watched as the hand slowly started to descend upon the empire.

"As expected of the former god of the empire. 'Tis a pressure I hath not known in countless cycles of the sun and moon. Care thee to not touch his skin for thine both hath not been tempered fully tempered to resist such might," An'raie warned.

Aye, I knew. I sure as the fucking seas knew what she was talking about. It was impossible to not feel the pressure coming upon me. It was even worse than his gaze. Alġnoth was far beyond any tenth-tier spell. I knew not what Zevmar had done, but Alġnoth claimed he hadn't gotten all he wanted. If only this hand of his was being summoned through that circle, I was thankful I'd been such a thorn. If his entire body were to be unleashed, I knew no sea deep enough for anyone to hide.

Clenching my hands, I gathered all the water I could from any available source. I might have destroyed one house, or two, or a dozen, but the bastards better be happy to still be breathing. I could feel the gaze of the empire's soldiers. I had no time to wonder what they thought of Eric Drakclaw settling behind the walls of Ynro known for keeping my ilk out.

I took the water from the air next. Anywhere I could grab it, I did so. As it covered my hand, I formed the floating sea into a large hand of my own. With as much force as I could, I crashed the claw of water into the palm of Alġnoth.

"Hahahaha! If that's the best you have, then Liara Ilzahold has sorely overestimated your capabilities, boy. Neither you nor that witch tied to you has the strength to stop me," Alġnoth gloated.

I fucking hated his voice. It was like the worst brine on my ears since I knew he was right. Despite my efforts, he pushed back against me effortlessly. I slowed him down, gritting my teeth and forcing the sky to give way to storm clouds. By my will, rain fell from the skies and I added it to the water I used from the sea, yet he continued to push me down like I wasn't even in his way.

"Til Ipka Silumn Nii Hi!" An'raie chanted. She placed her spectral hand over mine and blew an assortment of black flames into the water. The flames mixed with the water and crashed into Alġnoth's palm as well. I had to give An'raie credit for with the both of us, we pushed the bastard's palm back toward the magic matrix in the sky.

"Should we find some way to break the matrix, his connection to this realm shall be voided. The formula was also written with inferior materials. It shall not last long. Either we shall destroy the matrix or we shall hold him off until the power keeping it active is drained," An'raie advised.

"There be but one matter. Whether or not he's gonna allow us to do that," I retorted as I felt Alġnoth push against us a little harder. The bells of the empire roared through my ears as An'raie and I were pushed down further and further.

I already knew that should this battle continue Alġnoth would best me before the magic in that damned circle ran out. However, my thoughts were momentarily distracted when I heard the booming sounds of guns, and the various chanting of spells.

Briefly glancing down, the soldiers and mages of the empire made the capital come alive with a rain of gunfire and magic spells. I felt fire so hot I thought it might burn me as an arc of flame flew past me and crashed into Alġnoth's arm.

"Repel this evil from the capital. For the Glory of the Empire!" the aged voice of Emperor Aldwyn hollered as his men roared with him.

Luckily for those damn soldiers, none of their bullets or spells had hit me yet. If they had, I'd make sure to give the lot something else to worry about.

"Intis! Metus! Arwet!" Mages hollered. Upon hearing the words of the spell, I knew that the emperor had come to the same conclusion that I had. The mages from every available division, association, or allied group in Ynro, slowly drained the mana powering Alġnoth's magic circle.

"Kehehahahahahahha! So many ants. It's honestly amusing to watch you all struggle," Alġnoth taunted through the recesses of my mind. Using my other hand, I summoned the clouds together over the magic circle. I then pulled down thousands of tendrils like strings of rope and latched them to his arm. With both hands, I pushed and pulled while An'raie continued to support my efforts.

"Do you not realize that it's hopeless? Should I educate you further?" he asked.

All it took was one pulse of his mana for me to grit my teeth as I felt the bones in my arms break. The pain was heavier, singing me into unconsciousness. Yet, I fought to stay away and swiftly cast healing magic on myself. The repair was just as painful as I felt every bone snap back into place. Once this was over, I swore that I'd repay this fucker twice, thrice, no ten times the pain I felt today.

"Eric Drakclaw, I advise you to be prepared. Mages and warriors of houses Lightfeather and Balamar. The queen will... lead the assault. It would shame the empire, but the emperor wishes not to fire upon one who desires to see the empire stand, even if they are a pirate. He asked me to deliver the message to you, perhaps that no one other than I ought to," Alteria uttered while I growled.

While I wasn't about to thank a fucking Hæňgaramian emperor for anything, I welcomed the information if only so I could start preparing measures for An'raie. Per her path in the magic arts, light magic would ruin her if she faced it directly.

"Much as I hate to break it to ya, Alteria. But your men ain't as powerful as the Alchemist of Delverhold. Even if it were light magic, I doubt it's gonna do a whole lot to a bastard like him. If you really want to help me, aim for the fucking magic seal. The magic you lot wield is good at dispelling the more vile mystic arts. If those bastard followers of the fucker are anything like I know the lot, they sure as hell ain't gonna be using the seals of Lumnina to summon him!" I fired back.

"I... I'm not sure that they'll listen to me," Alteria said as I snarled.

"Then fucking give it to the stubborn shitheads this way! If they don't listen to you, then the lands you lot pride yourself on shall be nothing but a wasteland for only the vilest and decrepit minds to wander. You wish to do honor your old man? Then, tell your damned men to listen or die! There be no other alternatives!" I exclaimed, fed up with Hæňgaram and fed up with today. Had my eyes not been so sore and blurry, I'd have tried to wield the Mark of Hoɖ. Yet, that would only make it harder. For some reason, the strain of the mark on my body wasn't something that could be so easily healed away. Hell, without sufficient mana, it felt like it was tearing my body apart instead. I had no idea how Liara could wield this thing so effectively.

"...I shall try," Alteria said before she cut the spell to communicate with me.

An'raie and I continued to hold struggle against Alġnoth's descending palm. The closer it got, the more pressure I continued to feel, all while he cackled and taunted the lands of the empire. He voiced what he would do to the followers of Lumnina. Spells continued to fire at him while I continued to hold him back.

Then, the most serene feeling came to my spirit. It wrapped around me with its familiar embrace and I knew it could only be Aesteal. I was proven right when I sensed her unique mana, along with the mana of the rest of those I'd brought with me.

"Sir, are you alright?" my elf asked worryingly as always.

"I have seen better voyages, Aesteal. I got a special job for you and the others. I want you to watch the movements of Alteria's countrymen. Sometimes a damn empire soldier will be even more stubborn than any citizen of Draegnar!" I warned.

Aesteal quickly agreed and rushed off to spread my news to Ellen, my mother, Naala, and the others. Unfortunately, Alġnoth decided to torment me further by forcing me to heal my broken arms every time he release a pulse of mana so strong that it toppled the once mighty structures of the empire. Buildings went up in flames even under the torrential rainfall.

I knew not how long I held Alġnoth back for. How ever long it was, it wouldn't have been this long with An'raie. It also wouldn't have been this long if Alġnoth decided to take this a little more seriously. While I hated to admit it, this bastard was beyond my means to deal with currently. I wondered what Liara would do if she were to meet him again.

Finally, An'raie and I noticed the surge of mana behind us. I didn't need to turn around to see what it was since I saw the night become illuminated by the white glow of light magic. I struggled to push the disgraced god's arm back up, not only to repel him but to also keep An'raie from the light magic as much as I could. I'd been pushed to just barely floating over the city which left her far too close for my liking. Her face contorted in discomfort.

With a bit more grit and pushing through another broken arm, the laughter of Alġnoth soon quieted down as my eyes bled. Wielding the Mark of Hoɖ, and casting aside the pain, I stared into the tempest of magic runes floating in the air. I forced myself to dismantle as much of it as I could surrounding the matrix which summoned Alġnoth.

"Thou art not powerful enough to use the mark for such a prolonged period. Neither is thine mastery enough to dispel so much powerfully ancient arcane energy. Thee needest not worry about..."

"Cease your words and let me focus, woman. I swore your revenge and I shall deliver it to you. It be a deal we made upon the shores of Delverhold. What be the worth of a captain if he can't keep his word?" I fired back as I pushed Alġnoth's palm back into the sky.

The storm raged in my ears and the skies were torn apart like the splitting waves. "You face the Son of Poseidon, Alġnoth. Whether you be man, god, or spirit, it makes no matter. Should you stand against me, you will fall just like all the others!" I said as I summoned forth any vestiges of strength left.

My arms burned, my soul ached, my eyes suffered, and my mana was pushed to its core, yet I wished naught for more than to see Alġnoth's damn face. I wondered what face he made as I forced his palm back into the sky with An'raie supporting my efforts.

I even felt comforted by the sight of Aesteal and Maeloson, vigorously firing every type of elemental arrow that they could into the lengthy, red arm. My mother, Naala, and Ellen emptied clip after clip of regular and magic bullets. The members of Raven's Shadow offered the same, with Brant coordinating the efforts of the entire team. Truon, Daen, and Nz'ia leaped through the air, passing by the flying beastmen of the empire. They got in what strikes they could, but given that they couldn't touch Alġnoth without a terrible fate befalling them, there wasn't much they could do. Luckily, I didn't have to expend any effort to save them as they took care of themselves.

"Eric, the emperor is willing to try what you suggested. They... they didn't believe me but the Grand Elder and the Mages of the Association were willing to stand by my words. For your sake... and mine, I pray you're right," Alteria said, which honestly threw me right off the starboard.

"Aye, it be good to see your countrymen ain't as stubborn as I thought. I've dispelled some of the magic that I could. The matrix will be much weaker. You lot only got one shot at it. He won't allow a second time," I warned as the connection was cut.

From the hundreds of Lightfeather and Balamar warriors, I squinted my eyes as they all released every restraint on their magic that they could. As for House Lightfeather, their bodies were clothed in holy magic, the wings of angels sprouting from their backs.

House Balamar wasn't nearly as bright in power, yet their combined force wasn't to be underestimated either.

"Hahahahahha, do you truly believe a bit of light magic would be enough to quell me? There's not a single shred of Lumnina's greatness hidden within it. You really think I don't know what you're trying to do? Very well, I'll let you try it. It'll make your despair all the greater!" Alġnoth boasted as Lightfeather House roared to life.

"Illuminos Drakthuros!" they cried as they fired a blast of pure light magic in our direction.

"Prafectim Luminarria!" The Balamar house fired next, Alteria with them. Unlike House Lightfeather, they summoned an innumerable set of conjured light spears. The spears flew through the air and danced around the blast from the Lightfeathers.

Quickly, I forced the thunderclouds to strengthen in intensity. The rain fell even harder than before while I grinned. "Aye, and you'll remember this night as the night that the damned goddess' might wasn't even needed to get rid of you," I fired back as the lightning collided with the droplets of water I controlled.

What a sight it must have been for those below to see my hand swing as the rain moved the lightning into the blast of light magic and light spears. I was forced to close my eyes this time as the blasts crashed into the magic matrix. The last thing I saw or heard was Alġnoth's screams. Who would have ever thought that a god could scream in such agony?

Even I couldn't withstand the force of the explosion as my whirlpool of water was destroyed. The wind howled in my ears and I thought I might crash into the pavement below. While I knew I'd survive, it wouldn't be a joy ride to crash headfirst into the ground, especially not with how exhausted I felt.

Luckily, I didn't have to find out how Hæňgaramian masonry tasted like because my fall stopped when I was in someone's arms. Unfortunately, I couldn't find out who it was even with my eyes open. Everything looked blurry around me, a mixture of shapes and blobs that made fuck all sense.

"Eric? Eric? Say something dammit! Are you alright?" My mother asked, her voice sounding like we were underwater.

"A-Aye, let's just get the fuck outta here before the rest of the empire turns its fucking attention on us," I said, grunting when I felt Nei jump into my chest. She frantically slapped my tail, clearly conveying her worry for me. Had I not been in so much pain I might have found a bit of humor in her angst.

Nz'ia quickly picked me up and the others led me away from the crowded roads of Ynro. At some point, the Xhaluter handed me over to Maeloson. We walked, more like limped for me, back to our refuge in the Empire, my vision not clearing in the slightest. In fact, I was almost on the verge of passing out.

While I attempted to keep myself awake, I frowned as I heard Alġnoth's voice like a cruel breeze over the sea's night air.

"Hahahahahahahaha, most impressive, Eric Drakclaw. I'll excuse your interference of my plans just this once, simply because you've been so entertaining to watch and hear from my followers. However, even you have a place in my future goals, but should you dare attempt to challenge me again, you shall find that the throne of D'orn is not quite so easily acquired," the disgraced Hæňgaramian god said to me, chuckling as his voice got smaller and smaller until it was no longer there.

"Then I'll be sure to wrestle control of it from your lifeless corpse should you stand in my way!" I thought as I continued onward.

After so long, we made it back to the quarters for the male soldiers. I was led upstairs and back to my bed. When Maeloson sat me on the bed, everything finally stopped looking so blurry around me.

"Gurok, can you heal him up?" Brant's voice moved through the room.

I breathed a little easier when I sensed the power of the battle monk's magic flowing through me. While he did that, I chewed and swallowed some herbs that would aid in my recovery. They tasted bitter, yet I soldiered on.

Thankfully, everyone around the room was quiet while I got myself reorganized. I practically sensed their curiosity burning like a merry band's campfire. When I glanced up, indeed they were all looking at me, their expression ranging from confused to upset.

"Now that you look like you're not about to spill your fucking guts, I think it's time we got some answers. Like what the hell was that?" Racaell questioned, throwing her hands in the air.

"That was the fucker who's been orchestrating this whole barrel of monkey piss. Turns out the pantheon of Hæňgaramian gods ain't as clean as they'd like to believe. Saltlicker's name is Alġnoth. Apparently, these used to be his grounds until Lumnina muscled her way in. Clearly, he didn't like sharing the booty and ruined it for himself. Long story short, he tried to get the lands and its people back, and he's got some other shit cooking that I don't know about," I answered.

Of the many, I saw Nz'ia snarl. "Iktuku sala banileke Alġnoth ndivisat. Aneke tim duk sak!" He uttered. As expected, that got everyone looking to me for a translation.

"He's heard of the god before. A perverse leader for the undisciplined," I answered. For myself, I was rather pleased that I'd gotten a more comfortable handle on the Xhaluterian language than when I'd met Nz'ia. Granted, I'd win no fucking speeches at their tribal council meetings, but I'd hold a simple conversation for now.

"Yes. There are... were a few elves in the north that worshipped him as well. In Fgg'rial, he was named Khiadell, the Spirit of Change. Notably, change in mentality, purpose, and desire. He's a heathen spirit because many of the elves who worshipped him fell into vile practices. We've killed many of them for the sights we've seen," Aesteal said next.

"So he's a real piece of shit, is what I'm gathering. So what's to stop him from flattening the empire into the seabed next time? I don't know about anyone else, but I've had my fill of Hæňgaramians to last a damn lifetime," Truon voiced, his statements met with a lot of agreeing nods from his party.

"I would seek us to journey onwards. I don't fit well being so close to so much light magic," Rieth voiced after Truon. When I took the time to look at her, I noticed how pale she looked, even with her hood covering most of her face.

I looked at the others and they waited for my decision. Even Nei and the other fairmaids eyed me curiously. Finally, I closed my eyes. "Very well. We shall lift anchor and sail within four nights. We're gonna stick around just in case any more rats decide to creep in through the walls. Whatever that god's plans are, they clearly involve Seraphina and I," I uttered. I watched Aesteal's eyes widen while my mother looked worried.

"You mean the bitch of fire that you fought a few days ago? What's he want with you two?" Ellen then asked.

I shook my head. I couldn't even give a fucking idea as to what he might need of me. However, it was clear that the bastard had some hand in my death in my first life. He also knew that I was from that time as well. Then again, I'd met a few people who could smell the stench of time magic burnished upon my soul.

"Besides, Maeloson has a matter of his own that needs investigating. The Empire should be able to handle the rest of the clean-up. Indeed, I think we've dipped our fingers in their affairs for long enough. Though, I also noticed that despite allying with the Empire, Callamum wasn't so keen on helping them out, especially not with that supposed earth mage of theirs," I said, glancing at Nz'ia. As expected, he didn't look thrilled by the knowledge either. No doubt he'd expected the slayer of his tribe to appear in the war.

Hell, I'd sent him to the south since that was closest to Callamum. Yet, it seemed that he'd had no luck. "Iku sabit talles! Da suk bekak!" Nz'ia growled before he marched out of the room, lowering his head under the door frame. He then slammed the door closed, cracking the walls in his departure.

"And what did that mean?" Daen asked.

"He's upset. Let him settle his own matters for now," I said, leaning back as my muscles ached. My eyes were still raked with pain as well. Aesteal grabbed a basin with some water and a rag. She washed my eyes, granting me a moment's reprieve from the pain.

"Perhaps it would be best if you kept your eyes closed for now," Aesteal advised.

I was much too tired to argue, so I agreed instead. "You're not gonna go blind, are you?" Naala inquired.

"And deprive myself of the jewels I got to set my sight on with every rise of the sun? I'd sooner dump my fortune in the ocean," I uttered.

Finally, Gurok stopped healing me to the best of his ability. The time ran extremely late into the night ad Raven's Shadow dismissed themselves when the excitement of the night started to wear off.

One by one, the ladies that shared my bed went to sleep, except for Aesteal. She left to speak with Maeloson, no doubt about the investigation he wished to partake in on that supposed elf he'd seen dead by Zevmar's hand.

As my eyes were still closed, I felt every little fucking thing. Nei and Lei crawled over my body for a little bit until I heard the door open. "How are you feeling, sir?" Aesteal asked quietly.

"I'd feel better if my eyes were open," I replied while she chuckled.

"It shall not be long. Merely a night," she answered. There was a pause for a moment or two until I heard her delicate voice again.

"Alġnoth. Do you think he's the reason you..."

Before she even finished her question, I nodded. "Aye. Whether he be the main cause or a damned fancy accessory, it seems my matters with that guy ain't gonna end no time soon. Bastard claimed that tonight was just a greeting. I doubt I'll get the same treatment as tonight. At the very least his merry band of cocksuckers'll go into hiding for a bit since he claimed he'd back off for now, but by his own admission, he's got a crew that spans all over D'orn. They'll come out of whatever hole they spawned in eventually," I returned.

I felt Aesteal touch my face, her fingers gliding over my beard. "Then I will make sure none of them stand in your way," Aesteal uttered confidently to me.

With my eyes indisposed, my mind settled on an image of what face she might be making with that statement. However, I smiled all the same. "I shan't stop you," I answered. My lips tasted the gentle pressure of hers on them. A fire was lit under me as I derived pleasure from her gesture.

I didn't go to sleep immediately. I figured I'd stay awake in case Lorentia or any of her men might barrel through the door, requiring my assistance. Luckily for me, that didn't seem to be happening. However, it was impossible to not hear the scrambling soldiers miles away in the city.

Utterly exhausted, I closed my eyes. I couldn't even find the time for my consciousness to lead into the library that made up Liara's memories. I drifted off to sleep as soon as my head hit the pillow, the events of dealing with this damned empire tiring me out even more than I'd thought. Had it been my choice, I might have slept the whole of tomorrow away.

...unfortunately, the seas-damned Fates decided once again that my life was a good passer of time. A series of knocks, each harder than the last, came upon our door. I was still rather unsettled from yesterday before I felt a shake of my shoulder.

"Captain, you awake? Seems the Grand Elder wishes to see you. Doesn't seem to be a social visit this time though," Naala said, whispering to me so as not to disturb anyone else.

I groaned, my arms and eyes feeling sore. I'd not thought it'd take them so long to heal from the damages of yesterday, but I supposed the strength of disgraced god wasn't to be underestimated. He certainly seemed to be of a higher tier than Kavtha.

"Tell her, I be dead. I bet that'll make the lot happier than winning the war," I mumbled back. The cloth still remained over my eyes, leaving me in darkness.

My lips thinned as I heard the door open. Several armored boots stepped in the floorboards. I then heard more than a few gasps or disapproving grunts.

"I believe its best that you're not a stage performer then, Eric Drakclaw," Lorentia's voice pushed through the room, clearly unconcerned about waking anyone else in my bed. Ellen and my mother grumbled as usual, unwilling to face such an early morning. Ellen especially not.

I offered a half-awake snort for my answer. Silence briefly followed for a time before Lorentia found her voice. "I shall make this brief. The city is still under high alert due to the actions instigated by... Alġnoth. The Emperor is reluctant to believe in the revival of the god as is the Mage Association. I understand that you might wish more reprieve, but I shall plead that you make a special case. The Emperor requests your presence," she said.

I continued to lay on my bed, even as those words no doubt rang through every ear on my bed. I could also tell that Lorentia was being rather generous with that 'request.' "So you told him where you've been hiding me?" I asked.

"Not exactly. The Emperor believes you to still be in the city. He has many searching for you. The trackers we can spare have been put on this task under my charge. However, I wish to reassure you that this isn't a capture. The Empire currently can't afford it, even with your injuries. You have spilled blood for the Empire. None shall forget that," she answered.

If that was her way of easing me, it didn't much matter to me. If anything, I wasn't sure if I wished my deeds to be sung positively on the lips of empire soldiers. Then again, the joy of knowing they owed their continued dominion thanks to the efforts of a pirate was rewarding in itself.

"And what does he want?" I questioned, slowly leaning myself up. I was a bit clumsier than I wished due to my dreariness. Seeing as she wouldn't be getting any more sleep, my mother slowly helped me as I grabbed the cloth over my eyes and threw it away.

"I was not informed, though I have no doubts many assume it will be to your demise," Lorentia said while I slowly opened my eyes. As expected, everything was still blurry. I could barely make out the Grand Elder's shape even with her glimmering armor on. I swirled some water out of the air and splashed my face with it, hoping that would help.

It did a little, but I was forced to rely upon magic to return to me my proper sight for the moment. I sure as hell wasn't gonna give the Emperor of Hæňgaram a view of my pitiful state. Just the Grand Elder and her entourage were enough.

Truth be told, I wasn't sure what got me out of bed. I could have told Lorentia and her friends to fuck off. I felt more than a little entitled to my rest after keeping the damned palace from standing. Yet, I found myself getting out of bed. I'd have grabbed my captain's coat, but it was still soaked from the night before. In fact, it had definitely seen better days.

While I got out of bed, I noticed Aesteal was gone. It seemed that she hadn't returned last night after her talk with Maeloson. I wondered if they decided to go back into the palace is look for answers. I hoped that they found what they might be seeking.

Ellen and my mother got up as well. I offered to let them sleep in, but they tossed aside my concerns. "We could do without you keeling over like a dog in the street," Ellen uttered. I laughed as we made our way to the bathhouse. After a quick washing down of our bodies, we presented ourselves before Lorentia and her men.

It seemed that the clouds covered the sky and I was pretty thankful for it. I didn't need the sun in my eyes right now. Hell, even without it everything still looked brighter. "You alright, Captain?" Naala asked, glancing at me every now and then.

"Aye," I answered, not really feeling okay but not wishing to draw more attention to my flight. Nei and Lei pocket their heads out of my pockets, gazing upon me with just as much worry as everyone else. The sympathy was nice but it sure did nothing for my pride as a man.

When we joined Lorentia, I noticed Brant and his adventuring group there waiting for us.

"No offense, Captain, but you look like shit," Truon pointed out.

"Well, shittier than usual," Racaell added in.

Despite a chuckle from Daen, I made the thief and gunner gasp as I threw water at them. "Talk more and you'll look shittier than I do," I warned as I walked past them.

The Grand Elder and her men waited for us, clearly finding no amusement in our antics before they led us away. "This better be fucking good," my quartermaster mumbled, her irritation very notable.

"Hey, how many pirates get to say they've met the fucking Emperor of Hæňgaram? Most usually wind up dead," Naala argued.

"How unfortunate for me then. I'd have taken the death," Ellen hissed.

As we walked, I noticed Raven's Shadow close behind us. It seemed that Lorentia had invited them as well. We left the Naalin Valley and entered a section of Ynro.

Once we entered, it didn't take much time for every soldier to have their eyes on us. I supposed there was no point in having a disguise at this point. It wasn't like I was at risk of being assaulted while the Grand Elder was there. In fact, I took pride in the scornful looks. It was the looks of gratitude or indifference that, strangely enough, annoyed me the most.

On our journey to the palace, I surveyed the city. For having been attacked by a god not even a full day ago, the city came out a lot better than most that I'd seen from Liara's memories. Mages were busy moving debris from fallen structures and soldiers were tending to any wounded.

There was nowhere in the city that some type of work wasn't being done. The only people missing were the civilian lads and lasses of the empire. Yet, I knew they'd return with their Balik-drawn carriages.

When we came upon the palace, Naala threw her head up. "I'll admit, the fucking place is always a sight for the eyes. Hey, Ellen, how many coffers could we fill if we fucking stripped the place bare?" Naala questioned.

"Enough that you'd see your fucking descendants thrive for the next 500 years," Ellen whispered. By the way my mother eyed the palace, it became clear that even she knew a fortune when it found her.

"Sure we can't take our cut early, Captain?" Naala asked.

"Please, you'll receive more than that in this lifetime," I answered as we marched up the mighty steps of the emperor's palace.

We made it to the front door. I noticed Alteria standing there with a few other guards. As usual, her presence wasn't appreciated by them. The embers of that broken woman from last night were still fresh. Nevertheless, she tried to hold her head up, glancing in my direction.

Once the guards noticed the Grand Elder, they pushed open the doors for us. Lorentia asked for Alteria to follow, and Lady Knight obeyed. Together, we left the public area of the palace. Guards were everywhere, some with rifles, others with large broadswords and shields. They stand perfectly still, almost like statues in a silent hallway. Yet, I watched their eyes linger on me and my crew as we marched behind Lorentia.

The walk was quiet, almost disturbingly so. The halls were so grand, every step was an echo through its chambers. We walked up a flight of stairs, with more soldiers guarding every odd-numbered staircase. Judging by their impressive stores of mana, I figured these to be men from Lorentia's personal unit. No one else in all of Hæňgaram had such refined mana since I'd enchanted them.

"I swear, what is it with emperors and kings and fucking staircases? This is twice as long as the Kingdom of Hallik that we visited once," Daen growled out until Brant silenced him.

When we made it to the top, I saw the most beautiful doors fashioned from crystallized ash metal. Even if the clouds were dark outside, there was a glow to the doors that couldn't be denied. Even if I had better treasures, I was mighty tempted to tear the empire down just so I could take those doors for myself.

Each side of the doors had a sword embedded in its face. On top of each sword was a ring embedded in the door as well. One was of amber and the other of emerald. I understood these to be the two times that Aldwyn had conquered odds where he should have fallen, and the empire with him. For a moment, I thought I might bring it up that Aldwyn ought to get a pirate cutlass embedded in the door. That'd get a laugh outta me like no other.

I chose not to stare at the door for very long since even its brightness was starting to hurt my eyes. Luckily, it didn't take much for the doors to open. The royal guards posted there stepped to the side.

"While I expect nothing, I urge you to be on your best behavior," Lorentia said, never turning toward me.

"Then you best be praying that your chair warmer of an emperor doesn't give me a reason to give you less," I retorted softly as the doors opened, revealing a wide throne room. All was as white as a sea of cream.

The floors were finely crafted from crystal ash, looking almost like glass itself. The walls were cut down to the most perfect detail. At the top of their lengths were three flags on each side, bearing the Hæňgaram insignia. Behind the posts were windows, revealing Ynro as far as the eye could see. Perfect glass, even reinforced with mana to prevent any magical assault.

The ceiling revealed a glorious, if pretentious, painting of Aldywn's battles throughout his current life. Behind the throne, there was a large statue of wings. At their center was another statue, one of Lumnina. She held a spear in one hand and a shield in the other.

Seated beneath her vigilant gaze sat Emperor Aldwyn and Empress Thellka Balamar, Alteria's mother. Standing at the emperor's side was his daughter, Quinn. Clearly, her brother was still absent. I knew not whether she was there as part of the guard detail, or to show that the emperor's family was still holding strong, but I saw that she continued to look upon me critically.

When I looked away, I saw the empress not even paying many of us a mind. Instead, her eyes lingered on Alteria for longer than anyone else. Try as she might, it was impossible to not see that crack in her face. The lass was fucking heartbroken in the cruelest sense of the word.

Then there was the emperor himself. When I gazed at Aldwyn, he gazed at me. Despite his rather neutral expression, I could tell he didn't enjoy having me here. Whether that was here in his throne room, here in his presence, here in his city, or even here breathing at all, I wasn't sure. But, being as old as I was, there was no need to feel intimidated by his gaze. In fact, I felt rather honored to have the gaze of the emperor for so long. Hell, were I in better condition, I wouldn't have minded facing him. I'd not gotten the chance in my first life.

"Presenting Grand Elder Lorentia Lunargaard and... associates. You may all kneel before the emperor," the Hæňgaramian herald said.

As expected, I watched Lorentia and Alteria fall to their knees. Along followed our escorts.

Yet, I did not. Neither did Ellen, my mother, Naala, nor Raven's Shadow. Even Nei and Lei resisted the command, hissing at the herald like he'd put a plate of shit right in front of them.

The throne room was silent. All eyes glaring at us and our blatant disrespect of Hæňgaramian customs. Lorentia glared at me disapprovingly while the herald cleared his throat.

"You may kneel before..."

Grabbing the water circulating around the herald's mouth, I forced his lips shut. He groaned in shock.

"He might be your emperor and expect you on your knees while you suck his cock, but he ain't mine, laddie. If he wishes to bring me to my knees, then let him do it by his own power and his own merits. Now for your sake, I suggest you step back while you've still got a voice to bark," I warned before I released my hold of him.

The herald coughed violently and swiftly stepped back while the soldiers turned to the emperor, awaiting any command. Oddly enough, he didn't give one. Instead, he continued to look at me before he raised a hand, allowing Alteria, Lorentia, and their men to stand.

"Long Live Emperor Aldywn! May your emperor remain forever and may the light of Lumnina guide you to greater understanding!" the soldiers echoed like a damned rehearsed marching band.

Aldywn acknowledged their greetings with a nod. He then urged the herald to continue with the news. "This meeting is to discuss the events that transpired last night where the destruction of Ynro was... prevented by... the pirate, Eric Drakclaw," the herald said evenly, though I imagined it must have made his very core burn with anger to acknowledge my contribution.

"Would it kill you to give a fucking thank you?" Naala whispered.

"It probably would," my mother whispered back.

There was silence after that as I took in the aged emperor's features. For such a renowned warrior, I'd never seen such tired eyes except in my own.

"Eric Drakclaw," Aldwyn spoke, his voice as deep as thunder and powerful as the rolling seas despite his age.

"This is the second time I've seen you in the lands of Hæňgaram, but this is not the second time I've heard of your exploits. Tree leaves blow with news of your deeds and the birds sing of your might," Aldwyn praised, catching me off guard for only a moment.

The emperor leaned up, his royal clothes shifting this way and that. "I shall ask this but once. Why are you here?" He asked.

All eyes turned to me and every ear was tuned to my every word.

"To make sure your countrymen don't feed the grass and soil that decorates your lands. I think I've done a mighty good job of that all things considered. Least I might get is a word of thanks," I answered, making the emperor narrow his eyes at me.

I thought I heard Ellen give a half-chuckle half-snort behind me. Unfortunately, no one else shared in her amusement, the rest of them keeping watch of the emperor's reaction.

His response was to hold up his hand. Though everyone seemed surprised, only the empress spoke.

"Aldwyn, are you set in this?" she questioned, her voice dutifully measures as befitting an empress.

His decision held and I watched the herald and every guard, including Quinn, leave the room. Soldiers led the empress away while the doors behind us opened. Somehow, I could tell where this was going and dismissed my crew as well.

"Eric..." My mother said, unsurely.

"I'll be fine, mother. I ain't keeled over yet," I replied.

"Try not to get us executed, Captain," Hannath pleaded as the others were led away. This left only me, the emperor, and the Grand Elder.

Finely, Aldwyn stood up from his throne and ventured down the steps. He stood before me, his height rather formidable. I barely came up to his damn chest.

"I shall not thank you. No praise for your actions shall ever pass from my lips, nor from the lips of any Hæňgaramian citizen. If they should do so, then they are no countrymen of mine. Nevertheless, I am not above rewarding effort, especially from those who would keep the great walls standing. I shall reward you with three requests. Should it be within my power, it shall be granted. However, before then, I have questions and I know that you have answers," he said, turning his back to me.

With his arms behind his back, Aldwyn walked over to the windows. He beckoned me to follow and I did so. Lorentia was close behind me, never speaking a word unless she'd ever be addressed.

I stood next to him, at least five feet apart. "Tell me, what happened within the walls of my lands?" he asked.

I snorted. "That be a tale best told over a pint of ale. Believe me when I say you'll need it," I pressed.

"Alcohol has not passed by my lips, and it never shall," he answered.

Fucking Hæňgaramians, I swear.

Either way, I told Aldwyn about all that happened within his lands during my stay here. I wasn't sure why he'd believe me over any of his other attendants, but I saw no need to deny him the truth. I told him of Sekria, Taptos, Zevmar, and Alġnoth. Each piece of news seemed to make him more upset and distressed as time moved on.

"Perhaps Lady Lumnina has forsaken us because we allowed heathens to occupy her temples, and there could be more of these men hiding in my walls?" he asked.

"Aye, nasty little roaches they be. Though you'll have time to track the lot down. After that mess they just pulled, they ain't ready to make another attempt. Just don't count on me to bail you lot out a second time. I've broken enough bones aiding you," I let out honestly. My damn arms were still sore from last night, even with all the healing done to them.

"There shall be no next time. Neither for you nor for them. Had I not made my errors, it would not have taken the help of a pirate to keep us standing," he uttered.

I said nothing and neither did Lorentia. Instead, the emperor faced me. "The Court of Mages believes that such an occurrence is impossible. They even believe it to have been an accident. I know not why I would put the word of a wretched vagabond of the seas above their own but I have my suspicions about you. I had them when I first saw you, and I've confirmed them at the present time. You have found favor with the Scarlet Witch, Liara Ilzahold," he said.

I wasn't particularly surprised that he knew this. I'd seen on various occasions through her memories that Liara and the emperor, every now and then, held secret meetings. He'd even tried his hand at having her as a concubine, provided she ceased all questionable acts of witchcraft.

Of the times that I'd known her, that was the only time Liara laughed aloud. I never thought I'd see such a sight.

"Aye, I've known her once or twice," I answered.

Aldwyn fully faced me. "The witch is only known for dealing with the most competent of men, the likes that can either guide the world, destroy it, or have the potential of either. I have waged war against many who have sought her aid, and you hold more of her presence than any I have set my eyes on. Therefore, I know there is something about you that can be trusted, even if I abhor the statement myself. Were it not for that, I'd dare not entertain this matter."

"Careful, Lad. You still be in the midst of a war. You don't need another enemy," I warned, focusing my gaze on him. I felt Nei and Lei shuffle in my chest pockets as the emperor and I traded gazes. Yet, Lorentia never moved from her spot.

Finally, I turned back. "There be more to realms than you'll ever know. There is more might out there yet untested, knowledge yet unfound, and treasures yet undiscovered. Dare you to think that if that bastard waited all this time and planned it out, he'd simply quit after one loss? Think of the many battles you've faced. How many have given up after one setback?" I asked.

He didn't answer. Yet, his gaze told me enough.

"He'll be back, and he'll have something crueler not just for you lot. He has a plan that encompasses all of D'orn, I imagine. He might have just started with you lot because he's got a history with you," I replied.

Aldwyn appeared very thoughtful at my words. He glanced at Lorentia. He then turned back to me. "What would you advise?" he asked.

Aye, this was definitely a day of firsts for me. What pirate got to give advice to a known nation of pirate haters?

Nevertheless, I helped the emperor out and imparted the knowledge that I'd learned not just from Liara but also from my own studies. Aye, while I'd normally never do such a stupid thing as help out an enemy, I also knew that if Alġnoth had some hand in my death, then I'd need to delay him as long as possible until I figured out why. If he wanted to waste time on his vengeance on the empire, then it would be good to equip them with the knowledge to resist him, at least so they wouldn't be wiped out. Plus, they'd been given the corpse of the Delverhold Frost Giant. Their might would surely exceed what it was in my first life.

I also offered up several scrolls and tomes to the emperor for study. True to his word, he never offered a word of thanks. Instead, for his pride, he counted this to me earning 'rewards' for my services. I didn't much care either way. I'd have wiped the deck of my ship with his thanks.

Time passed very quickly and I found myself spending more time around the bastard than I ever wished to. Yet, our short truce was to come to an end as I finished handing him the last book. "Be sure you've got the right lot for this one. As I said, there ain't gonna be a second time that I help you," I warned again.

"And there shall not be a second time that we need it," he said, handing the book over to Lorentia. She took it with a bow of her head, making a record of all that I'd given them.

Finally, Aldwyn faced me. Briefly massaging his steadily graying beard, he addressed Lorentia. "Grand Elder, prepare a record of the events which have transpired here. Secure it in below where none might see it save for the Keeper of Records. For just this once I shall wave the law of the land," he ordered.

"Yes, Your Highness," Lorentia said. She briefly left to retrieve some paper and a quill with ink.

"Tell me what you desire, Eric Drakclaw. For your service to the empire, I shall see you rewarded. Then, I shall ask that you depart from my lands and never return. In lieu of gratitude, thanks, and medals, I shall grant thee six requests. Name them," he voiced.

Were I not so tired, I might have had an ear-splitting smile. Instead, I kept my face even.

"Aside from keeping you landlubbers standing, I had another reason to come here. Rest assured that it should only take me a day or two. Have your men not interfere with my business and I'll not let the matter affect you or your rule," I answered first.

The Emperor and Grand Elder looked at me suspiciously but the former waved his hand. "Granted," he said.

"Should you uncover anything regarding Alġnoth, I wish to know about it. I have a vested interest in seeing that anything he has planned doesn't see the light of the dawn!" I answered next.

"...and how shall we impart this knowledge? I warned you that I shall not accept..."

"Aye, aye, don't need to parrot yourself. You know you lot have been to The Root before. You've been given a seal that reveals its location no matter where it is. That shall be our meeting ground. I'll know when you show up," I said.

"Granted," he answered.

We continued to proceed down the list of rewards owed to me and my crew. Aside from some gold, and barrels of supplies such as food, gunpowder, and spice, I naturally also asked for crystallized ash of the empire. Aye, while I was set to get some from Alteria's pay, I sure as hell wasn't gonna pass up the opportunity to get more. In fact, the more I had, the greater my chances of success.

Of course, I knew asking for too much was to strain this already tense relationship, so I simply agreed with a small bag of the stuff.

"Granted," The emperor said as Lorentia wrote on the scroll.

"And your last request?" he asked.

I thought and thought about the matter before a grin finally came to my face. I mentioned my request and I saw Lorentia widen her eyes while the Emperor scowled. Yet, he controlled his features and shifted his gaze back to his window.

"...Granted," he said evenly, though I knew his tone was far less than pleased.

With our matter settled, Lorentia rolled up the scroll and put it away. Then, the emperor sat back on his throne, inviting everyone back in. Alteria glanced at me because the emperor looked at her with a heavy gaze. She tried to remain strong, yet I saw a shiver roll through her body every now and then.

Lastly, Thellka, the empress returned. The throne room then settled into a few reports. Some mentioned the war still going on and others spoke of countries backing out with the fall of Zevmar. I still wished I'd have had to opportunity to gut the bastard myself, but I wouldn't waste tears over it.

At last, with a wave of his hand, the emperor dismissed all of us or almost all of us.

"Alteria Balamar, you shall stay," the emperor's voice boomed as the soldiers, herald, and Alteria stilled. Not even the empress was immune, looking at her husband with veiled worry.

Alteria knelt before him while Lorentia led us away. As the doors closed, we were swiftly led out of the palace.

"Well, what the fuck was all that about? Fucker looked like he just sat on the biggest wooden cock strap of his life," Racaell inquired.

"He did seem upset," Gurok responded next.

"My bastard of a son did something fucking stupid. What else would it be?" my mother asked.

I noticed Ellen look my way. "If I have to load my guns for anything else, it's gonna be your head," she threatened, though I knew that was her irritation speaking for her. Clearly, she was still tired. As was I.

"Worry not, we'll be fine and we'll have gathered quite the fortune for all our troubles," I said, attempting to placate her. It did just the trick too. Ellen smiled when her ears heard the sound of potential coin.

We ventured back to the Naalin Valley and the others made their way up the hill.

"Eric Drakclaw," Lorentia called. I faced her.

"I know not what you hope to accomplish, but... I shall thank you. Not as a soldier of the empire, but as a citizen," the Grand Elder said, making sure no one else heard us. I waved her off, making my way back up the stairs, all exhaustion threatening to overtake me.

When I got back in my room, I released my mana from my eyes. Everything became blurry again almost immediately. My eyes burned and my body felt numb from the unusual pain. I knew not what the cause was, but I cared not to find out. Instead, I discarded my clothes and went back to sleep.

My sleep was wonderful. Yet, my body also started to feel warm. A delicate touch rolled up and down my frame. There was something warm on my chest. Then, the warmth slid down to my stomach. It wasn't an unpleasant touch, but it was clearly an inexperienced one.

At first, I thought it might be any of my lovers who decided to lean up against me like usual, but I'd known their touch. This wasn't as vigorous as Ellen's or my mother's. Not was it as playful as Naala's. It certainly wasn't as tender as Aesteal's. As for Diane, it definitely couldn't be her.

I tried to open my eyes, but they were too heavy. All around me was just a shroud of darkness as I lay in a floating abyss of nothingness.

I sharply inhaled when the warmth went down to my legs. I felt the heat in different places, spanning out like branches of a tree or... limbs of a hand. Though the touch was sloppy, I couldn't deny a sensual feel to it.

Then the warmth came onto my face. I pictured a hand from the way the heat seemed to stroke my face. On my leg and my face, I was caressed by hands too lithe to be a man's. I wished I could see my caretaker and maybe even try to reciprocate the affections. However, my body refused to move. I could only lay there in the darkness and enjoy the sensations swelling around me.

Naturally, it didn't take long for my body to show its appreciation for the movements, amateurish though they were. My cock started to rise off my pelvis, curving proudly in the air. I clenched my hands, groaning softly. The flames of lust were beginning to stir within me, yet I was also starting to feel much better. The pain in my eyes and arms began to fade.

The sensations stopped for a moment. I knew not what made them pause, but thankfully they didn't do so for long. Instead, great pleasure flourished through me when I felt the warmth grasp hold of my cock. It could only be a hand that could do this.

The nails tickled my skin and the hand rested there, oddly enough unsure of what to do with it. While I knew not who this might be, I wasn't gonna ignore the pleasant feelings rolling through me.

"Stroke it," I said, surprised that my lips found no such restraint.

There was silence, but I shivered when the heat of the palm jerked my cock slowly. "Softer. Slower. Aye, just... like that. It feels good. Look and observe what you do to it. It feels amazing," I instructed as the hand followed my instructions.

The pace was set and my breathing got quicker. The hand slowly moved up and down, over and over. "Touch the tip," I said.

The fingers obeyed, slowly jerking my cock with the thumb pushing and rubbing the crown of my man's mast. The fingers were slender and hot, growing in confidence as the handjob rose in tempo. The flames of lust were stoked slowly within my being. Strange, yet enjoyable energy flourished into the depths of my soul.

My invisible caretaker seemed to be getting affected as well. They alternated between fast and slow with one hand while the other continued to trace a line across my chest.

Since I couldn't see with my eyes, I had to rely on seeing with my body. The sensations were like being wrapped in a warm blanket of fire, never burning me but letting me feel each strike of heat. It was an experience I'd never felt before. I shivered in delight of the embrace, my impatience steadily moving my hips for me. I sought to rub my cock into the hands of whoever this was.

After some time of enjoying this handjob, I could tell that some frustration was seeping into my partner. Their hold was getting tighter and they ceased their slow measure for a more aggressive approach. It was a fucking amazing feeling, but not one that would get the result she wished from me. I'd had numerous lovers and while the occasional shock of pleasure would surprise me, it wouldn't be enough for something like this.

In my partner's frustration, there must have been some give on the pressure which kept my hands down. I reached out and grabbed their hand with my own, surprising them. The hands didn't pull away, perhaps comforted by the fact that I couldn't see them.

"Making a gun fire ain't the same as handling a firearm, lass. Calm yourself. It feels good. It feels pretty fucking good," I encouraged. I then took her hand and slowed her pace again. Just like with Aesteal, I taught her the places that I enjoyed most. She struck them well, gliding her delicate fingers over my skin. Every touch of her was a jolt of otherworldly pleasure from my body straight to my brain.

I continued to hold her hand with mine before I tested the water a bit further. With my other hand, I found her arm. It was smooth, nary a blemish on it. I scaled her body until I touched her face. Her face was just as smooth and delicate as her arm.

My partner still seemed content so I settled myself with achieving this much. I dared not push my luck while her inexperienced hand was currently massaging my shaft.

Finally, my cock lurched and my hips vigorously pushed into her hand. I warned her through gritted teeth before I threw my head back. I groaned as a torrent of cum fired from my cock and onto her hand.

Almost immediately, I started to feel better. The soreness in my eyes started to go away and the numbing sensations in my arms. My breath was short, hoarse, and hot. Somehow, despite the inexperienced technique, I felt like my soul nearly left my body from the climax.

The hand pulled away and I thought that might be the end of the matter, but my body sure as hell didn't think so. How I wished I had seen my partner's face when my cock rose again, the aura of Vilinlith doing wonders for my stamina.

The hands didn't immediately grasp my cock. My hand was still on my partner's face. I rubbed her cheek with my thumb, picturing her eyes looking down at my cock as if wondering what else she should do with it.

"Good. You've felt it. Now taste it," I said slowly, almost as if letting my words coil around the very nape of her neck.

There was a dreadfully long silence that made me wonder if my partner might fade away. Yet, I still felt her face in my palm. She then moved her face away. The warmth was quickly taken away and I thought I was left alone, that perhaps I'd pushed a bit further than needed.

Thankfully, that wasn't the case. I felt a hot rush of air on my cock and hands on my thighs. One of her hands then gripped my cock. The sleek juices of my cum made her movements easier all while I felt her breath tickle and wrap around my manhood.

She continued to stroke it, almost like she was hesitant to approach the matter before her. It took me some doing, but I found her face again. "It's ain't a difficult matter. The instinct of man be a powerful thing. Let 'em take over," I instructed.

More silence followed before I shuddered in delight. A rough, yet wet surface licked at the underside of my cock.

Up and down, up and down, it went while she panted. Her lips brushed my cock which made me recognize this to be her tongue. Her tongue was long, longer than any lover I'd had before. It covered not only my shaft but even had the length to glide over my nutsack.

"Ngh!" I groaned, a willing victim beneath her caresses.

She must have gotten more confidence because she started licking my dick vigorously. The lustful energies swirled around me and flew into her. Being so close, there was no way she wasn't affected. Her lips sucked the side of my cock while her tongue draped over the underside.

Moving her head up and down, albeit clumsily, she quickly got me going again. Without my sight, the sensations were wonderful, a myriad of lights swirling in the darkness around me. She moved her head to the other side, coating my cock with her saliva. It didn't take me long to cum again, firing a load into the air.

That didn't stop her, however. A slave to our passions, she licked the cum off my cock and thoroughly gobbled it down. Her lips stuck to my shaft, and she bobbed her head. The movements were rather jerky, and I felt her teeth more times than I wished to admit, but the inside of her mouth was way too enjoyable to attempt to correct her.

Her mouth was so inviting, so wet, and so hot. No matter how much of me she took, she hadn't gagged once despite her inexperience. Instead, her tongue coiled around my cock. Her lips even kissed and sucked my crown. Every strike was more amazing and stimulating than the last, driving me to the edge of sheer maddening ecstasy. I even started to buck my hips into her face.

She took my movements almost like she wasn't an amateur at all. I had no idea how she could take my movements without feeling any discomfort, but I knew that she enjoyed this relatively rough action. My balls slapped her chin, but she never stopped sucking. My cock was swimming in the otherworldy desires of her mysterious body.

"UGH!" I growled, shoving my cock into her mouth.

"Gnngh!"

Aye, there was the uncomfortable sound I heard if only briefly. She coughed as my cum fired into her mouth. Rope after rope landed on her tongue as she tried to catch her breath. Unfortunately for her, she couldn't quite catch all of it as some dribbled out of her mouth and onto my thigh.

Once I was done, she continued to suck me for a little while. I tried to catch my breath, even as I felt her explosion of arousal as well. She was clearly pent up, filled with years of frustration. More than any woman I'd ever met. I... slowly started to get an idea of who might be doing this to me, but I sure as hell didn't understand why. However, if she didn't wish me to see her, then clearly there was something here that she didn't wish to acknowledge.

Of course, that was kinda hard to argue since I felt a lot more warmth than before. It was like my partner's entire body was over me. I figured it had to be true since what felt like her breasts pushed against my chest.

"Hey. Ease up, Lass. You sure you..."

I didn't even get to finish before she slammed her hips down on my cock, enveloping me inside her sleek cunt in one move. Ashamed though I was, it was impossible for me to not cum again, pushing the strands of semen deep into her waiting cavern.

Unlike the rest of her body, her cunt was rather cold. However, there was just something undeniable about it. It was cold, but wet and slimy. Every shape of her insides was as if it was made to pleasure a man. She squeezed me so tight that there was barely any room to maneuver. In fact, had it not been for the aura of Vilinlith smoothing the friction between us, I fear it'd be almost impossible to slip out of her.

Then, my partner bounced on my cock, releasing a surge of lustful aura and emotions through the core of my soul. Every slam of her hips seemed to make me feel better than before. The injuries I sustained that hadn't been healed were quickly replenished one after the other, all while her cavern squeezed and massaged the length of my mast.

So drowned in her own lust, she didn't even know that I'd been freed. I grabbed her hips and she placed her hands on my chest. We slapped our lower regions together. My cock speared into her depths while I heard the tantalizing slap of her breasts. Her waist fit so well in my palms, my fingers digging into her skin.

Despite the pleasure she felt, I could sense her hesitance to cry out. She'd already slipped up and didn't dare to again. However, I knew that she enjoyed this. Even if her voice remained stuck in her throat, it didn't matter. She couldn't hide it from me.

Finding the strength to lean up, I cupped her cheek. "I know not what we're doing right now, but we shall both enjoy this if you wish," I said as I kissed her. Her body stiffened, but she clearly loved the intimacy. Her walls choked my shaft bringing me to another orgasm.

I flooded her pussy, thrusting away still as her tongue tangled with mine. I wondered how she might feel once this entire matter was over, but I'd never mistake the way she rubbed my shoulders. She further drove her lips into mine while wiggling her luscious curves.

Not willing to let her do all the work, I thrust my hips into hers. I drove my cock in and out, rubbing, caressing, and digging the very nerves of her tender flesh.

We parted with a small smack of our lips. Her lust exploded into me, revitalizing the damages done to my soul by Alġnoth. Then, she held me tight, biting into my shoulder as she came on my cock.

I still couldn't see due to the darkness shadowing my eyes, but it was a long-forgotten thing at this point. I held my partner in my arms, making sure that she'd not so easily escape from me. For someone having no heart, her chest sure beat like she did.

I kissed her again, probably surprising her since she tried to push me away. "We did it your way. Now, we shall do it mine," I said, kissing her again. Her fingers clenched my shoulder, but she finally eased her tensions. This allowed me to slip further inside her until her ass rested on my balls.

In the darkness with only the two of us, we fucked long and we fucked slowly. I lost track of how many times I made her cum, but I also lost track of how many loads I'd dumped into her. Yet, no matter how much I pushed into her, she greedily sucked it all up.

My body was on fire and hers started to warm up from mine. I purposed in my core to get one more moan out of her. So I leaned forward. I thought I heard a gasp, but I then felt her beneath me. She tried to squirm, but I held her arms over her head.

She might deny it until her spirit burned away, but she did like this. I pushed my cock back into her cunt. My hands gripping hers, I thrust my hips. The powerful smacks were the only things we heard. My body pushed into hers with her wrapping me in her arms and locking her legs behind me. Every thrust made her toes curl and her nails dig into me.

My cock pulsed and her pussy quivered, each shaking and undulating together in perfect harmony that shouldn't have been possible. I spear her over and over, pushing the crown of my dick as far against her chamber as it can. The nipples of her globes press against mine while my lips claim hers again. Her lips shivered in foreign submission, something I sure wasn't used to seeing from her.

I swiftly felt my last climax approaching. I pushed my hips and did all I could. Even if she didn't moan, her body was a fucking trembling mess of nerves. Each compounded on the other, crashing into me and then back into her. I fucked her desperately, eagerly, unceasingly, all while I send the remaining cum within me flourish through my shaft.

With her legs around me, there was no way I could have pulled out even if I wished to. Instead, I slammed into her and fired a fresh load of cum deep into her body. Her walls coiled around me as her back arched, slathering my cock in her womanly fluids.

"N-Nnnnnnnnnnnughghaaaaa!"

Even as spots lingered in my eyes and my ears rang from deliriousness, I heard her voice and was pleased with myself.

My cock fired a few more streams into her until I was finally finished. Her legs released me and I rolled off her. I panted, enjoying the afterglow of the sex we had.

"And what's the reason for this?" I questioned.

I didn't receive an answer. Only silence welcomed me.

"An'raie?" I said, reaching out my hand to try and find her. Unfortunately, I felt nothing. I searched for a little bit until I concluded that she had left me alone. I thought something might be wrong, but it wasn't long until I felt my mind starting to slip back into the Land of Dreams.

I fought the coming feeling as best I could, continuing to call out to the Lonely Wail. She never answered my call. Instead, my mind succumbed back to sleep and rest.

I called for An'raie once more. The open nothingness greeted me as my consciousness faded away.