The days aboard my ship went by rather slowly since I'd left the Empire and Alteria behind. Three days had passed since my name day and the enjoyment I'd received from it. In that time, I'd mostly spent it in the Root. With the festivities of my ship having calmed down, Goron wasted no time informing me of the backlog of clients that Liara's business accumulated while I worked on the matters concerning the empire.

I'd tried to leave the matters to him since he was more adverse in dealing with Liara's clientele than I was but it seemed that I wouldn't be so lucky. As explained to me by him, there were clients that would only meet with the one in charge. Seeing as how Liara was indisposed, and I had been given her blessing to run The Root, I didn't need to be told what he was implying. It also became clear to me that just trying to shove the duty of The Root into him be no viable option either.

So, I was forced to dawn my beastman disguise and entertain the appearances of at least thirty clients over the three days. Each one was more insufferable than the last, many of them coming with gifts for Liara. One, a nobleman in fact, pleaded to know when she might return that he made plead to wed her. He brought in over fifty chests of the finest gold and jewels, I'd ever seen. Had Ellen seen such treasure, I wondered if her eye might have rolled out of its socket. Yet, me being the greedy bastard that I was, I informed him that I would put in a strong word for the lad with the Witch at her earliest convenience. I almost felt bad when the fucker left cheerful.

"You'll make enemies should this continue. Requests for the hand of Lady Liara shall never cease," Goron said next to me.

"Best you be sure that I promised nothing to any of them. Should they wish to give away their fortune, then who be I to deny them? Besides, it'll be a good building for proper character. Ain't no better teacher than misfortune," I claimed, leaning back in my chair.

Even with my eyes closed, I felt Goron's gaze upon me. "You seem to speak from experience. Has something like this happened to you before?" he asked.

My lips thinned. "Aye. Embarrassed myself pretty fucking hard with it too. Best the lad learns now to not lay his destiny with his cock. It'll keep him outta trouble," I reasoned as the next person came in.

If I was fortunate with any of these matters, it was that the requests of those present weren't too unmanageable. There was no meeting with any supposed god, demon, or other creature that I wouldn't be so keen on visiting. Instead, the requests usually pertained to items that they needed. I'd finalize the purchase while Goron and Diane would retrieve the materials. I despised the work, but made no mention of my displeasure to anyone.

Of course, things couldn't end with just that. I'd not forgotten about the numerous agents Liara had both in D'orn and the realms beyond it. They all started coming to me with information, stuff that I had to read through. A lot of it I didn't understand, with me needing Liara's memories over long periods to even begin translating some of these documents. That said, when I asked about Alġnoth one of the reports stated that there hadn't been any movement from him since his assault on the Empire. Of course, that wasn't much of a surprise to me since I'd been the one getting assaulted at that time. I suppose outside of Diane and Goron, no one else knew that Eric Drakclaw had taken over The Root.

Also what I noticed was that more than a few of the empire's enemies came to Liara requesting supplies for medicine. I gave them what they wished for merely so no one would think Liara would be playing favorites by siding with the Empire. Trying to keep her business as neutral as possible in these affairs required much more delicacy than I was willing to put in. Nevertheless, I tried my best for her sake and for the trust she'd placed in this old scourge. I'd at least make sure the lass had a business to return to when she came back, if ever.

Once the final client was finished, I stretched my neck and reviewed the rest of her inventory. That alone took most of my night since it was about fifty pages long. When I was finished, I allowed no word to pour out of Goron or Diane's mouth, much to their amusement. Instead, I exited the magic shop and proceeded up the stairs.

Through the window of the ship, I noticed it was very dark outside. The crew had long since gone to bed and I was ready to join them. When I made it to the deck of the ship, I enjoyed the momentary peace of the waves and wind on my face. The smell of the salty air burned my nostrils, yet it was still a familiar scent not lost to me. In fact, I dare say I enjoyed the discomfort.

When I opened my door, I immediately noticed my bed was preoccupied. Naala and Aesteal were there while the fairmaids no doubt slept at the bottom of the barrel filled with water.

I threw off my clothes and slipped into bed with them. "Mnnnnnhgh, finally," Naala mumbled as she lay her head on my chest. Aesteal kissed my cheek briefly before falling back into her dreams as well. I was soon to follow after them as I entered the Land of Dreams.

I wasn't sure when I awoke, but I knew it wasn't morning. The sun was much too high in the sky for it. I also noticed that I was alone. Absently, I heard the splashing of the waves beneath my ship, a bit too irregular to be natural waves. A quick check had me aware of the fairmaids playing while the ship was still at rest.

I slipped out of bed and threw on a new pair of clothes. When I came onto the deck, I noticed members of my ship passing the day in their own way. A few fancied themselves to practice with their swords while others, the mages in particular, studied or read from ancient tomes they'd either pilfered from Delverhold or off the bodies of enemies back in the Empire.

Others spent their time playing games but a few were taking their roles seriously. I saw Maeloson up in the crow's nest. Though he looked out into the sea, I could tell his thoughts were distracted. There was a faraway look in his eye that spoke of a man lost in the depths of his mind. I wondered what he'd investigated to get a look like that. I was tempted to question him, but I'd sworn that I'd leave his matters alone so long as they didn't come to my ship. If Maeloson wished not to share it with me, then I'd have no wish to get him to.

"Well, it's about time you woke up. Ship can't move if the captain isn't on the deck. Are we still charting the same course?" Ellen asked, walking over to me.

"Aye. I shall weave the seas fast to sail us to Draegnar. Once there, we'll restock then we'll head on our way. However, before we head to Charon's Landing, I'll have one more stop to make," I answered.

"Yeah, you had some type of meeting with that flaming cunt that you fought before. You really think this bitch is gonna work with you?" Ellen questioned.

To be honest, I wasn't sure. At the very least, I proved that we need not be enemies. Liara said that I would need not just her help, but the help of my other siblings of the elements if I was to avert whatever disaster was coming. Should she decline to help, well I'd just have to continue to monitor her. Even if she refused, it became clear to me that what was coming affected all of us. I imagined she'd be singing a different tune should her life nearly meet its end.

"Can't no one be sure of too many things, Ellen. Even if she doesn't agree now, I'll bet she'll come around later. Lass like that, she ain't the type to roll over and die without putting up a fight," I answered.

Ellen looked at me, clearly confused. Nevertheless, she shrugged and called the crew together. She ordered the helmsman back to his post and the others to man their stations. Everyone quickly began moving as the anchor was raised. The ship quickly started to sail. I admit that I was a little worried for the fairmaids, but it seemed stupid when I saw that they easily kept up with the ship. In fact, they seemed hardly perturbed at all. Of course, Nei had to be the lead of the whole group.

While we sailed, I decided that now was the time to continue training the rest of my men for this brief passage of peace that was afforded to us. I gathered a few of the mages together and took them to The Root. There, under the guidance of Diane, I threw them into a realm behind one of the doors, specifically one meant for the training of mana and magic might. As for why I never used it myself, well my stores of mana had long since grown beyond needing such a thing.

"Make sure they try not to kill themselves in there," I ordered.

Diane snorted. "Got it," she said, leaning against the wall of the door and checking her guns in her boredom.

When I returned to the deck of the ship, I spotted Nz'ia waiting for me. As always, his form was impressive. He easily dwarfed all of the men on my There was a hard glare in his eyes that told me the matter couldn't be put off. Seeing as how the ship and the seas were calm, I bade him to follow me.

Once we were inside, he spoke.

"We have put off this matter for long enough! When shall you deliver the promise you gave unto me? I sail aboard your ship, yet I am no closer to the earth summoner who decimated my people nor the nation that employs him. If you dared trick me onto this ship, then know that I'll make sure that your devilry ways of the rotten liquid beneath us will not be enough to save you from my fury. I am aboard this ship to further my own ends, not to advance yours!" he growled out.

I continued to look at him, and I saw the fire in his eyes. He'd grown powerful from the blessings of Delverhold. I wondered just how many men had suffered under the weight of his blows and the spear in his hand. He seemed more than ready to back up his threat, the water within him moving rapidly along with the blood circulating through every vein.

Finally, I took the time to answer him. "Best you take care of your threats, Nz'ia. I take no threat from anyone lightly. Much less shall I grant anyone the means to fulfill any threat that would endanger my ship. See that you remember that," I started off which made him growl.

Nz'ia seemed set to march upon me, but I moved first. I walked over to my desk and touched some books. "I know of vengeance, Nz'ia. Rest assured that I've only begun my own path bathed in blood. There are also many aboard my ship who have yearned for the sweet nectar that revenge might bestow upon them for the trials they've endured under the thick pig's skin of Draegnar. I've no doubt that some aboard my ship have been blackmailed, extorted, abused, drugged, and far worse. I'm sure some of them have stained the Draegnar docks red with the blood of those who transgressed against them, whether they be former friends, family, allies, or anything else," I said.

I sensed him stop behind me as I turned to face him again. There was still much anger on his face, yet his gaze remained fixed on my every move. "There are also just as many, myself included, who have tasted the harsh sting of impatience and ruined opportunity. Aye, I had my quarry an inch from my blade. Yet, not only had I let him escape, but I lost out on the deal by my own fucking around. You speak of vengeance, what is vengeance if you can't even best the man who humiliated you? Dare you really think you can take me?" I asked, pulling the water from the fairmaid's barrel.

Immediately, I saw Nz'ia tremble. His natural Xhaluter heritage made him shun the very thought of touching the sea. It was no wonder why he usually stayed in his room whenever the ship was sailing. Then again, I also remembered the first time I met him and just how frantic he was to not be touched by the water. As far as Nz'ia might be concerned, I was the enemy of his tribe and were we not in a deal of sorts, there was no way he'd be aboard my ship willingly.

Nevertheless, I watched him grab his spear, pointing it at me. "Though I tremble, my spear shall not. I shall face the pirate with the pride of my tribe at my back! Even should my death be certain!" he snarled out, his mighty hands gripping his bone spear so tightly that I thought he would break it in half.

After a moment, I released the water from the barrel and walked over to the Xhaluter. I patted his shoulder, easing the tension. Of course, I could have done more to disarm him but I saw no need to escalate this matter, especially since he had reasonable concerns.

"I know you be a warrior, Nz'ia. No finer gladiators be there any than your tribe. Yet, there are just as many powerful forces that the spear cannot pierce easily. You saw the might of Seraphina and myself as we fought over the sea. If this earth mage bested you and your tribesmen, then what might that tell you?" I inquired.

"Do not take me for a fool! Yes, I am very much aware that if there were more like you then he must be one as well. It would explain his mastery over the elements of the rock that subdued my tribe so quickly. Nevertheless, he is not without his weaknesses! You think I'm not sure, but I saw the state you were in when you touched that stone. It is a poison to your kind. Should I acquire that same stone, I shall have the means to hold my enemy's heart in my hands in triumph!" Nz'ia exclaimed.

I stared at him for a little while. I was rather on edge with knowing that he was aware of the one thing that could disable my powers. I suppose as my quest furthered I'd meet foes who had the means to stand against my might over the seas, yet I never imagined a Xhaluter might be one of them. No doubt Nz'ia would tell the rest of his tribe when he rescued them, and while we had an understanding, we sure as hell wouldn't call each other friends.

"And how would you get close to him? I can sense beings in the sea. I have no doubts Seraphina can sense the heat of men from a far range. Best you believe this man has the means to locate you should your steps touch the ground. Perhaps every step you take, every move you make, he might know about it on land. Shall you save your people when your body is being eaten by maggots?" I questioned.

Nz'ia snarled, slamming his spear straight through the floor of my quarters. "Then should I do nothing?! My tribesmen rot in the prisons of foreign powers, and yet I sail no closer to my goal than when I started!" he roared in such anger that I heard my mother bang on the door.

"Eric, what the fuck's going on in there?!" she asked.

"A matter to be discussed later, Mother. Be about your business. I shall be out soon," I informed her. I watched numerous pillars of water behind the door slowly back away. The duties on the ship continued like normal.

I then turned back to the Xhaluter. His skin of bronze metal burned with a deep anger that refused to be quenched. "You claim to be warriors. Your tribe shall not die out so easily. You might not think this, but many know the value of a Xhaluter's skill. Rest assured that I've not forgotten that matter. Should this earth mage be who I think, then chances are I'll need to track him down and meet him as well. You shall have your chance for the humiliation you've suffered. Until then, keep your spear sharp and your skills trained, the opportunity shall come upon you," I returned.

Nz'ia glared at me, his sharp teeth gritting against each other as he pried his spear out of my floor. He waited on my next words as I walked over to the globe map of D'orn, laying next to my desk. "The same force that subdued Seraphina also targeted me. I have no doubts that it'll be looking for the two others like me if it hasn't found them already. Rest assured, Nz'ia, you shall have your reckoning just as I shall have mine. That our circumstances be intertwined ain't a simple matter. It will be resolved," I answered, finishing my piece.

Nz'ia released an animalistic grunt. His tail swayed this way and that. "Pray to Naazulu that you are correct. I shall not deny that I have grown in strength as I've sailed these accursed tides. This strength shall lead my people greatly. However, I shall be observing you. Remember that, youngling!" He said as he turned around and marched out of the door.

Once he was gone, I bit my lip, easing myself from speaking his language. I was sure to others outside my door it was just a load of grunts and rough tongues.

I'd thought about forgoing the journey to Charon's Landing and journey to Callamum instead. Aye, that I wished I could see for myself if this mage was indeed the man I was looking for, but I quickly realized that Charon's Landing might be more important than I'd given it credit for. I'd sought to go there since the Alchemist of Delverhold seemed so adamant that something lay there for him.

When I'd gotten the chance to read through some of his notes, I quickly remembered Maeloson's comment back in the palace of the emperor. He'd mentioned that Alġnoth's summoning had a similar magic feel back to Delverhold. When I thought about it, indeed I'd had that feeling back when that fucker's son tried to perform a ritual around my mother and Aesteal.

As I looked through the assortment of books regarding the Alchemist, I quickly realized that he'd indeed been studying the Cult of Alġnoth. However, most of those pages seemed to be torn. Those still kept together detailed his experiences in performing certain rituals just like they did. For a man who lived alone, I wondered where he'd gotten the victims to undertake such a thing, but chose not to delver too far into the matter lest I go mad myself.

In the end, I could only guess that perhaps he hadn't found what he was looking for in Alġnoth, which was why he tore those out. Yet, it was not just Alġnoth. Other cults and their heathen gods were ripped out as well. I questioned An'raie on the matter, but she merely gave me one-word answers, never talking to me more than perhaps necessary.

Aside from these thoughts, I figured my crew could do with staying out of an empire for a little while. No doubt they'd be a sad lot if they left Hæňgaram and came into Callamum. I could just imagine their groanings at having to be under the watch of more guards.

Naturally, that didn't mean that I'd forgotten Nz'ia and his affairs. I'd sent a few warriors to Callamum to try and find that earth mage of his. However, I hadn't received any reports from anyone in that area yet. A part of me worried that they might have been discovered, but I resolved to trust in the training of Aesteal and Maeloson. If they indeed met their end, then I'd make sure that their killers would share an even crueler fate.

I glanced down at the hole Nz'ia made in my floor, sucking my teeth. "And how the hell am I gonna fix this shit?" I questioned.

Before I could receive my answer, there came a knock on my door. "Enter," I said tiredly.

Of the many people to come and visit me, I wasn't surprised that it was my mother to do so. It didn't take her long to notice the hole in the floor as well. "What the hell happened? The Xhaluter looks like he's gonna shank five men of the ship," my mother commented, making me chuckle.

"Ain't nothing to worry about. Revenge and patience ain't the best couple to share a bed with, that be all. Though I'll need to pay a wood carver to fix this damn hole he made," I answered.

My mother agreed and walked over to me. "Yeah, well, I also wanted to talk to you about something else," my mother said, piquing my interest. Whatever it was, it seemed to make her uneasy.

"And what might that be?" I asked.

"I... could you free Diane for a few days? I'd like to fight with her for a little while," My mother replied.

Having heard her, I immediately knew where this was coming from. It seemed her battle back in Mapik with that warrior monk had left a great impression on her than I thought. I sat down in my chair and bid her to come to me. She sucked her teeth but obeyed anyway, taking a seat on my thighs.

"The opponent ain't so easy to beat when they're fucking slippery, are they?" I asked.

She opened her mouth to speak but no words expelled from her lips. Instead, she sighed. "Yeah well, a lot of the fuckers I fought during my time at the sea weren't the greatest fighters themselves. Most of us relied on guns and swords. The punch was thrown when the fucker usually had his back turned. Besides, even with this body I... haven't fought like I used to. If I'm gonna sail with you, then I'd not gonna drag the Captain's name through the mud, especially not when he's my son," my mother answered strongly.

I laughed, wrapping my arms around her waist. "Mother, this old salty scourge loved you when our name was even lower than mud itself. It matters not what they call you for if they call you less than what I say you are, then they shall die by my hand. Never shall your name be smeared again," I said.

I noticed my mother squirm for a moment. She then faced me. "Maybe you should have been a prissy poet instead of a pirate. And maybe I should have been a fucking maiden in a white dress twirling her shit in the open fields for believing you," she said smiling.

Then she leaned over and kissed me. I never grew tired of her lips for they were always delectable to me. As was the way she touched my cheek. She'd even lean her lithe body against mine, her legs rubbing overtop my own.

"...You know I love you. Even if you be a fucking stubborn son of a bitch," she said.

"Aye, that I do. Diane will be in The Root. Sharpen your skills to your heart's content. However, make some time for when we voyage to Charon's Landing which lies in the region of Olipios, even further west of Ildenshire. It will take weeks for us to sail there. In that time, I have much for us to do," I replied.

My mother swiftly agreed. "I'll be sure to take it up with Ellen and work on a schedule for the ship. Gods know those bastards would drown faster than dead chickens if no one capable is on the deck," she said, standing to her feet. She then left me, granting me a wink before she left.

I continued to stay in my room over the course of several days. Once or twice was I called out to handle business regarding The Root, but usually I kept to myself. Well, at least I kept to myself while Apollo danced in the sky. The nights were a different story. When I'd wake up, I'd usually find one or two of my lovers there with me.

Sometimes, I worried for Nei and her sisters, as they continued to swim next to the ship. Though capable, I knew that their curiosity was a dangerous thing sometimes. While they'd not gotten into trouble with it yet, I wondered if it might be only a matter of time before they got the attention of something that shouldn't be gotten. Of course, I was confident to handle all but the most rotten of guests that the sea provided, but the battles were hard fought nonetheless.

On those nights that I slept alone, I was usually in the library I'd constructed of Liara's memories. An'raie hadn't returned to read in my presence, and it became quite clear to me save for matters of importance, she'd seek no means to communicate with me. It seemed odd that I'd miss her warped tongue and dead language.

Hell, I'd even take her insults if it meant I might earn even a bit of her presence.

In any case, my days were long and filled with no measure of excitement other than failed experiments on my rapier. Most times I thought of giving up on the matter entirely, yet a strange obsession drove me to continue my work anyway.

Fortunately, it seemed that the spell over me wouldn't stay for much longer.

"LAND HO!"

I glanced up from my desk of materials, hearing the ship's watch shout to the others. Pleased with the reason for a break, I stood up and grabbed my coat. When I stepped outside, I felt the light touches of rain pouring over my head. Not of my own doing this time!

A man in the crow's nest pointed out over the sea and others gathered to look, myself included. Indeed there was land, a small island with no civilization to claim it. Its cliffs were large and its body was covered by lush trees and dense overgrowth.

"Captain, as best I can manage, I believe this might be the sector you pointed to me on the map. Far as I know, this little island be the only thing out here," a man said, holding the map to me.

Indeed it was as I could already sense Seraphina on the island. I also sensed the rocking of something heavy upon the surface of the water there. Were we to keep sailing, I had no doubts that I'd find a ship she used to sail there.

"Aye, this be the place," I said as I turned around, preparing myself to meet my sister of fire for the third time in my life.

"Captain, what manner of treasure be here? Shall we prepare the shovels for digging?" another asked excitedly.

While the pursuit of treasure hidden beneath the dirt would always be a worthwhile temptation, I'd not brought the men here for treasure. "You just gathered a haul to your pockets and yet you still desire more?" I inquired.

"Yahaahahahaha! We be pirates, Captain! Is the belly of the beast ever satisfied when he hasn't eaten for a few days?" a Draegnarian mage questioned back to me.

I shook my head before I summoned Ellen to the deck. She marched over to me, barely glancing at the island we were currently sailing toward.

"Dare I ask what load of shit you're about to get us into this time?" she asked, folding her arms and glaring at me accusingly. If not for my penchant for mischief I would have felt rather insulted.

"Check your weapons and gather anything you think you'll need. I ain't come upon this lone island to pick a fight, but I desire you to be there lest it turns out that way. I have some things to discuss with Seraphina there and I'd like you to be there with me," I said, hoping to convey the seriousness of the matter through my non-jovial tone.

Thankfully, that didn't seem to be needed as Ellen had already straightened up. She finally looked at the island with a more critical eye. "You sure I'm just needed?" she asked.

I nodded. "Aye, you and I shall be enough. Should anything happen, the rest of the crew can aid, though I don't believe they will be needed. If we're lucky, this'll only take a few hours. Then we'll arrive on Draegnar by the end of next week," I answered.

Ellen glanced between me and the island before she closed her eye and shook her head. She then faced the crew. "Prepare to disembark on the island. Be thankful that you've got such a carefree captain. He's decided to give the rest of you a few hours off," she proclaimed, ushering in the joy and merriment of the crew.

Naala, Aesteal, Maeloson, and Goron appeared on the deck to spot the island while I sailed us closer to it. I filled them in on my plans as I slowly brought us to the bank of the island. The anchor was weighed and men hastily tied the ship's ropes to three palm trees.

Nei and the other fairmaids popped their heads out of the sea. It didn't take her and Lei long to revert back to their small size. They flew over to me and took their spots in my clothes, soaking me with salty water. Yet, it wasn't much for me to weave the water out of my coat and clothes.

Ellen's fairmaid joined her as well, my quartermaster begrudgingly accepting the company.

I ordered Naala to contact my mother so that she would assume command of the ship in my and Ellen's absence. My powder monkey agreed and headed below deck while Aesteal asked if she or Maeloson should make preparations to go with us.

"No need. Rest assured that you both shall be the first I call should we need aid," I returned.

Both agreed as Ellen and I jumped off the ship. I watched the former owner of the Dead Tales check her guns once more before we made our way into the forest.

Slowly, my ship disappeared behind us as we traveled through the dense pockets of vegetation. Save for the cacklings of birds and the occasional foraging animal, nothing more seemed to be upon the island. "So what do you need to talk to this woman over? Wasn't she trying to kill us?" Ellen asked.

"Aye, but there be a greater concern that will need to be addressed. The fucking god back in the empire is going to come up with something crazy again. While I don't know what for, it clearly involves Seraphina and myself. He gloated about it like a damn kid with his first pocket pistol. Didn't you ever wonder where my might over the seas came from?" I asked.

"I stopped questioning the shit that revolves around you since all it does is make my head hurt. Though, I'm guessing if he wants you two, then he'll want the others? You said there were others like you?" she asked.

I nodded. "Aye, one of earth and one of wind. If I am to help Nz'ia acquire his vengeance, then it's likely that I'll meet the one of earth soon," I spoke.

I heard Ellen hum behind me. "Yeah, that beastman said that a powerful earth mage attacked his tribe," she commented.

We settled into silence after that and I watched the sun slowly begin to set as I made my way to Seraphina's location. By the time we made proper ground, the sun was gone from the sky, leaving only the bright orange sea of clouds in its wake.

Once I pushed a thick branch from my face, I stopped along with Ellen. She placed a hand on her pistol as we watched Ena appear from behind one of the trees. As expected, she seemed none too pleased to see us. That said, she didn't seem to want to fight as her sword remained sheathed in its mighty sheath.

"You're late, pirate! We have waited here for three days! Had you not aided my mistress I would have no qualms about beheading you where you stand," she said, keeping her arms folded despite her apparent threat.

"You have a special ability for attracting all the dry cunts of the sea. I'll give you that much," Ellen mentioned, nudging my shoulder with a small smirk on her face. I was unable to keep the smirk off my face from her comment before I leaned over to her.

"I ain't so sure about that. You weren't so dry when I got my hands on you," I retorted softly. Now that got a glare out of her, along with a red face of either embarrassment or anger. I was definitely inclined to believe the latter.

I glanced back at the woman I faced in Mapik. She didn't seem too pleased with being ignored. So, I stepped forward and addressed her. "Save your threats for another time, lass. I be here. I'll make my way to her now," I said as I walked past Ena with Ellen following close behind me.

Of course, Ena couldn't leave it at that. She followed us as I sensed Seraphina through a clearing of trees, right on the edge of a cliff. As soon as I came through the trees, I spotted my sister of the flames there. She stared out into the open sea while Ena swiftly bowed.

"The pirate has arrived, Mistress," she said, saluting Seraphina even though the redhead had her back turned. Her hair blew in the breeze over the island while the fairmaids poked their heads out curiously. It seemed that Nei didn't like Seraphina as I heard her hiss in the depths of my hair.

"So he has..." Seraphina said before she swiftly turned around. I spotted a flickering flame cradled in her right palm steadily growing larger and larger. With gritted teeth, she released a torrent of fierce fire in my direction.

Swiftly acting, I took the water from the air and the trees, blocking the fearsome barrage of flames as dense steam came over the area. I dug my boots into the ground, chuckling that maybe I had indeed taken one too many liberties with Seraphina. Her blast pushed me back as I was forced to take more and more water to contend with her anger. No, I needed more so that the flames wouldn't touch Ellen behind me.

After a moment, the flames passed and so did my wall of water. Her eyes glared harshly at me while I looked at her amused by her actions. Understandably, Ellen wasn't quite so tolerant.

My quartermaster immediately grabbed her guns and pointed one at Seraphina and the other at Ena. Seraphina's own warrior responded by unsheathing her blade, ready for any sort of combat as well.

"There shouldn't be any trouble. That's what you said right?" Ellen growled, sparing one glance at me before she shifted her gaze back to Ena.

Seraphina and I traded looks as we lowered our hands. "Aye, there shouldn't be trouble. Surely not every time we meet shall end in combat, right Seraphina?" I inquired.

The Daughter of Apollo didn't respond to my question. Instead, she straightened her clothes and her hair. "Keep me waiting again and I'll make sure that no amount of water you wield shall save you," she said.

With our grievances settled, Ellen lowered her guns while Ena placed her blade away. The two sized each other up cautiously and stepped away to grant the both of us some measure of privacy. Of course, they'd never stray too far lest anything foul come about again.

I stood next to Seraphina, watching the steady disappearing sunset over the calming ocean.

"So make this quick. What do you want? You desired this meeting in exchange for freeing me from the wretched magic that bound me to Zevmar's forces. If it's information you desire, then I don't have much to give you," she began, turning her gaze toward me.

I rolled her words around in my head for only a second or two before I replied. "Aye, there be information that I need from you, but I have many things to tell you as well. More specifically, I have much to tell you regarding the circumstances regarding D'orn, and us," I responded.

Seraphina looked at me curiously, yet she never lost the impatient glare on her face. "And what would I have to care about the fate of this realm for?" she asked.

Deciding that this might take a moment, I sat down. My boots barely hung from the side of the cliff as I stared at the churning waves. "Best you take a seat, lass. I've got quite the story for you," I said.

I felt the heat of Seraphina's gaze upon me. While she didn't take my offer to sit, I noticed a lack of tension in her posture. "Make haste then. I have better things to do than have you try and entertain my ear," she claimed, staring at me in a way that I'd found similar to when Ellen was upset.

"Then best you not interrupt me. Now, let me get the most pressing matter out of the way first. This ain't my first time being a pirate captain, and this ain't the first life I lived upon the seas of D'orn," I said, spinning the tale quickly to Seraphina.

As expected, the woman of fire remained skeptical of my story throughout the whole thing. Yet, I couldn't help smiling when her interest far outweighed her doubt. As I spoke to her of my circumstances, she took a seat next to me, listening to and studying my words with a critical ear.

I spoke of what I could and of what Liara told me. From what I could gather, either Seraphina didn't believe me or she believed and her concern leaked out through her stern face. I spoke to her of my death by the hands of my crew and that our deaths, along with the two others, would herald the end of D'orn.

Once I was done, the night had fallen upon us. I briefly heard the sound of a cackling fire a small ways behind us.

"And you expect me to believe this tale of yours?" she asked.

I laughed. "How else would a man my age cause such a storm of activity? I believe it also bears weight since I freed you from that spell, which you claimed was beyond me," I answered.

Seraphina remained silent for a short while, perhaps gathering her thoughts on the matter presented to her. "Perhaps you're just more talented than I might have given you credit for. I suppose even Draegnar, the homeland of vile filth that it is, can conjure up something priceless every once a millennium," she answered.

"A talented mage who also wields the might of Poseidon and who chooses to become a pirate rather than sail to heights of prestige and worldly honor? Do I look like a man who would follow in your footsteps?" I questioned, wondering how she might perceive said question.

She looked at me spitefully. Nevertheless, she reined in her fiery temper and eased herself back. "Ordinarily, even a fable of your death would make me laugh, especially at the hands of your own crew. However, I pondered the look on your face as you told the story. Either you're too good of a liar, or... you speak the truth. Whether one or the other, it annoys me. Your face speaks that you tell the truth and if you do, then that means I die as well, along with the other two like us," she stated.

I nodded. "Aye, and I have reason to believe Alġnoth might be the reason for it. I know not what I need your help with, but it clearly be a matter that I can't solve on my own. Were I able, I wouldn't have sought you out. I, much like you, would rather not tangle my affairs with others," I answered honestly.

"Then perhaps you aren't as stupid as I imagined. Based on some of your story, I can only surmise that I was used to bring down that empire of worthless holy knights. In your life, Zevmar succeeded and the empire was changed to whatever he wished," she said.

"Aye, though even in my time I'd not heard of Zevmar becoming the emperor. I heard that Hæňgaram had a civil war. I also heard it was quite bloody, but that was all I cared to hear. Were I to think on the matters presented to me now, it's likely that the Cult of Alġnoth used the empire as a place to conduct their business, or they used it as a means to hide while they collected the four of us in secret, to prepare us for whatever plans they might have had. He did Zevmar gain a hold of you anyway?" I asked.

Seraphina scowled and I noticed embers slowly start to trickle in amongst the strands of her hair. "It was a mistake which shall never happen again. So, I shall make this entire meeting rather short. You wish to work together, I'm assuming with the other two and myself, to destroy these people who shall bring ruination to the world of D'orn?" she asked.

"Aye. We need not be friends. I ain't about to share a cup of fine ale with you, and once this matter be resolved we'll head to our own course. However, until then, it's best we ally ourselves. Whether you care for D'orn or not, I sure as hell ain't gonna be one to lose my life for the sake of another's ambition," I uttered, twirling a knife between the tip of my fingers.

I sensed Nei wiggle on top of my head for a little while until she settled down. Even Lei wiggled about in my pocket as if something had disturbed her.

"Even if I were to agree to this... alliance of yours, I would not know where to begin to look for the others. Before you, I'd thought myself alone. I always imagined there were others that shared my abilities, but it was mild intrigue at best. Turns out my intuition was right. However, I wouldn't know what they look like, nor do you know that they aren't working with these supposed enemies of ours," she argued.

"Assuming you believe my tale," I interjected.

"...Assuming I believe your tale, yes. Before I consider allying with a pirate, I'll see for myself whether your words spring forth truth or not. If they don't, then you know of the fate which will befall both you and your crew. I shall not allow myself to play the fool for a second time," growled, the embers in her hair blazing even stronger.

"Aye, well you're in luck. One of the men on my ship supposedly had his tribe destroyed by a highly powerful male earth mage," I said, steadily watching her shift her gaze to me. She stared at me for a long while before she shifted her focus back to the sea.

"And you believe this earth mage to be our brother of the earth?" she inquired.

"Aye. Supposedly, he's in Callamum. I plan on heading there at some point and I have my own workings on finding his identity. Should he be there, I'll be sure to flush him out somehow. Yet, you propose a good point. It could very well be that they are allied with this cause of the cult. For one to have the balls to attack the Hæňgaram Empire, they would have their teeth deep in the necks of other nations. They could be in any city, town, island, or tribe," I claimed.

The talk ran for longer than I'd anticipated, but I wouldn't call the matter fruitless. Though Seraphina remained skeptical, she hadn't outright refused to work with me. Instead, she'd seek her own evidence and then make her decision. I wasn't too concerned about that since I figured I'd be proven right in the end. I only hoped that she'd not fall prey to the cult a second time. It was clear they knew our weakness against moonstones. Should they make use of that, I wondered what might become of Seraphina or even myself. Hell, the bastards could have gotten the Wind and Earth ones while we were here talking.

Yet, I assumed this not to be the case since I had no doubts that they would have attacked Hæňgaram with Seraphina and the others if they had them in their arsenal.

Finally, Seraphina stood up. "Callamum - the lands of another kingdom with even worse wastes than Hæňgaram. Fine, I shall play your game for now. Grant me a way to contact you. Rest assured that I shall use it at some point," she said.

Skeptically, I handed her a token to be used at any store governed by The Root. She looked upon it, dismissing it with a snort before she shoved it into her pocket.

"Tell me one thing, I saw what you were capable of. What stopped you from destroying my crew when we met the first time?" I asked.

Seraphina's gaze hardened. "I don't know. Believe me that I certainly tried to make them all burst into flames before your eyes. However, I wasn't able to. I assume you weren't able to do the same to some of my men on that vessel of that filthy Ninshil cur. Perhaps we cannot target each other's men. I know not the reason," she answered.

Her statement seemed to ring true as I remembered fighting Ena back in Mapik. I hadn't been able to easily deal with her with my powers of water. While she wasn't a particular threat to me with the swinging of her sword, I'd remained confused as to why there seemed to be certain people immune to my abilities without a moonstone. It made sense if she was someone important to Seraphina. Even if the latter seemed to claim otherwise.

She stood up and I followed her. Feeling rather jovial, I fully faced her. "Shall we shake on our new alliance then?" I asked, extending out my hand.

Seraphina looked down at the offering and sucked her teeth.

"Tell me, one thing. If you died before this matter started to come about, then how did you get sent back? That is if I am to believe your story. I thought time magic was supposed to be a myth," she said, staring at me curiously.

I was unable to keep the smirk off my face. She must have taken that as some slight against her because the frown on her face deepened into a harsh scowl. Yet, it was not her that garnered my attention, but Liara. While Diane had been rather vocal about it, I too missed the witch aboard my ship.

"Tell me, has a lass like yourself ever heard tales of the Witch of Draegnar?" I questioned, staring at her amusingly.

Seraphina eyed me back and snorted. "The legend of the witch who supposedly knows every spell that ever has been or ever will be? Tales of the woman that has refused the bed of kings, queens, and even gods? Yes, I've heard the tales and that is all I think of them, tales best told when the day draws long and the night draws not long enough. You expect me to believe such in such nonsense?" she asked, rolling her eyes at the absurdity of it.

Amused though I was, I dared not fault her thoughts. I'd shared them once upon a time when I'd started my voyage. "Dare you imagine many think the same of us? Best you be warned, Seraphina, you've yet to step the soles of your feet into the waters of magic. It be a vast thing, one that even a pirate bastard would be humbled by. That coin I gave you, it shall lead you to a great truth," I said.

Perplexed, she fished the coin out of her pocket. She looked at it a little more. "And what truth might that be?" she asked.

"...the truth to the origin of tales," I said.

Her eyes remained fixed on me for a time. She looked back at her coin briefly. She then turned around and walked away. "Ena, come! We're leaving!" she called.

Less than a minute passed and the woman was already in front of her mistress. "Yes, My Lady. I shall have the ship ready to leave in a few minutes," Ena answered, kneeling and bowing her head to Seraphina. Of course, I didn't fail to miss the indignant look thrown my way courtesy of her, but I ignored the gaze.

Ena then stood up and led Seraphina away. That seemed to be the queue for Ellen to appear before me. "Damn, and here I expected to see your charred corpse hanging off the side of the ledge. Did you get everything you wanted out of this meeting?" she asked.

"Aye. Seraphina can investigate my stories all she likes, but she'll come to see that I be right. Besides, the lass knows the threat posed on her. While she might not care for D'orn, I've no doubts she cares if she lives or dies. She'll come around. And how about you? Fancy yourself a good time with the lass' charge?" I asked.

Ellen spat on the ground. "I never thought I'd have the urge to blow someone's brains out more than you, but I guess there is always someone better out there. Shall we go now?" she fired back impatiently. Her boots trampled on the grass and broken leaves while she pushed rows of tree branches out of her way.

Grinning, I followed after her. However, I stopped soon after. My eyes turned to the sky as I felt a presence staring upon me. It wasn't just me, but Nei and Lei sensed it as well. They popped out from their places and looked into the sky curiously.

Unfortunately, I saw nothing out of the ordinary. There was only the night sky and the stars that lay beyond it.

"What's the matter with you? Something happen?" Ellen inquired.

I glanced back at her. When I looked back at the sky, I no longer felt the presence from before. Despite its gaze, it didn't seem to be a threat to me or my crew. Rather, it felt kind of familiar. "...No. Let's be off," I said slowly, eyeing the sky a little more as I followed Ellen back to the ship.

Once we arrived, I noticed most of the crew sitting on the beach, feasting on tankards of ale and water while stuffing their stomachs with the treasures of the sea. They welcomed me back and I decided that rather than dismiss them from their leisure, we would just stay here for the night.

That got a few cheers from the crew. "A toast to the greatest captain a shithole like Draegnar ever produced!" a woman said, downing her drink with the best of them.

"AYE!" the others hollered as they drank with her.

While their toast was nice, I didn't join in the festivities. In fact, I secluded myself in my room. Sitting in my chair, I decided to spend some time learning what I could of Alġnoth and his cult. The stuff I learned would even make a Draegnarian shiver as the fuckers were even more unhinged than Saviara and his group of mountain dwellers. Unfortunately, there wasn't much information Liara was willing to impart to me.

Though, when I studied Ondolor's notes, I noticed that he'd actually taken inspiration from Alġnoth long before he'd even begun work into Delverhold. Numerous journals spoke of a perverse god, and numerous visits from unusual agents. I would have thought nothing of it, as many of the gods the fuckers of D'orn worshipped had some kink that got their divine cocks and cunts going. Though he mentioned a woman in red surrounded by three men in the same cloaks.

It was no different from when the Liara of my first life met with the same robed people. Unfortunately, the bastard was supposedly somewhere in the higher realms just waiting for An'raie to wrap her hands around his throat. Were he not there, I would have focused more effort on finding him and what he might know. Though, whether I could best him or not was another matter. He was after all someone who even dwarfed Liara in might before her ascension.

While I'd gained a bit of useful information, most of it seemed to hinge on Charon's Landing. Apparently, the name had been mentioned in passing from a cultist, which the Alchemist dismissed almost immediately. It seemed after years he'd discovered something to remain in those lands of Olipios.

My thoughts were disrupted by a knock on my door.

"Enter," I said.

The door opened and in came Aesteal. She slowly closed the door behind herself. "Sorry to disturb you, Sir. You seemed troubled. I thought I might lend an ear if you wished," she said.

For a moment, my thoughts were soothed by Aesteal's presence. My eyes roamed her figure and I couldn't help chuckling. As always, her aura sought mine and I wondered if she just wished to be around me for a time. After all, things had been busy in the empire and we hadn't gotten the chance to remain together outside of troubling circumstances.

I leaned back. Feeling mischievous, I beckoned her to me. I then noticed that Aesteal came to me, nary a shred of embarrassment to be found in her steps. As expected, she'd definitely gotten used to my perverse ways. It was a shame really. I quite enjoyed her flustered appearances.

Aesteal took a seat on my lap, placing her bow on my desk. "I seem troubled? Be that really the reason you would venture all the way here?" I asked.

Unexpectedly, I saw Aesteal place a hand over my own. "Yes. Whatever I may do to ease any concerns you have, I'll endeavor to accomplish it. For you are the one I have chosen to bond to," she claimed.

I'd not been expecting such an honest response, and her words bit back any ways I might have used to tease her. Instead, I clasped her fingers in my own.

"I wouldn't call them concerns. They be more observations and discoveries. There are many questions I have and not enough answers. It turns out the Cult of Alġnoth had more of a hand in guiding the Alchemist of Delverhold than I thought," I said, enjoying the feeling of her body on my legs.

Aesteal glanced at my notes. Nei and Lei did as well, patting the paper curiously. "And you believe these answers shall be in Charon's Landing?" she asked.

"Aye, that I do. However, we're lucky. Liara has a few shops set up in that region. I'm sure someone there will have a guess as to what I might find over there," I replied, using one of my hands to rub her legs. Aesteal certainly seemed to like it.

We sat in silence for a little while until Aesteal spoke again. "I know I have spoken of this before, but this was the first time I'd ever felt such a vile presence which stood against everything that the spirits birthed. We were back in Fgg'rial, I know that the elves would have kept their distance from the people of Hæňgaram as even the air itself would have been ruined by the touch of that vile being. And I worry that he sets his sights upon you, Sir. Could you best him if you faced him a second time?" she asked.

I stopped my movements and hummed. "Well, that would depend. If you mean if I faced him next after a number of years, then it be possible. If you were to mean, if I'd be ready to face him tomorrow, then no. If it were easy to rival the power of the upper realms then anyone would have done it. I have a lot of work to do that I make not only myself, but the rest of you up to par as well," I said.

Aesteal traced a finger over my arms. "All while treasure collecting for the crew and sailing them from danger to danger?" she inquired.

"It be what I promised them. However, rest assured that it ain't a matter to be handled by me alone. Were it possible, then Liara wouldn't hold told me to gather others to deal with it. However, rest assured that I will pay that bastard back for the grievances he's caused me, as well as whatever hand he's had in my death!" I urged, letting every word seep through my teeth like I'd written it on paper and sealed it with a king's seal.

Aesteal brushed a piece of her silver hair and nodded. "Then, I shall be there to see him pay under your hand," she said, her eyes revealing no lie to me.

"We see too, mate! We see dark one pay!"

I turned my head and watched Nei glare at the image of Alġnoth's symbol, bearing her teeth at it like she would rip it apart.

I lowered my head and felt the salty heart in my bastard chest soothe. "Know that no matter where I might sail, nor how much gold I gather. None of it shall compare to any of you," I commented.

Aye, for the pirate treasure was nice, but what use be a treasure if no ship be there to collect it?

Aesteal gently smiled while Nei and Lei slapped their fins happily. I then felt the weight of exhaustion come upon me. I supposed I hadn't taken much care in the days leading up to my meeting with Seraphina.

Aesteal must have noticed my plight because she swiftly relieved herself of my embrace. "It's been a little while since I've seen you this exhausted, Sir. Perhaps it's best that you turn in early tonight," she advised. It was one I wasn't too keen on disregarding.

"Aye, perhaps. The world hasn't gone to hell just yet, and neither has my ship," I said as I stood up from my chair. Not in the mood to clean up, I left the scattered materials on my desk without much care. Then, I slipped Nei and Lei back into their barrel as I made my way over to my bed.

I was set to discard my clothes until I felt Aesteal behind me. "Allow me, Sir," she commented. Slowly, her fingers touched my coat and she peeled it off. Her delicate fingers then unbuttoned my shirt. She threw that away as well leaving me in my undershirt.

Next, her hands then sailed over my arms until they rested on my waist. As she slowly unbuckled my belt, I couldn't tell if she was trying to undress me or trying to arouse me. I certainly felt no lust coming from her that would indicate more than preparing me for bed. Unfortunately, my body didn't see it that way.

Aesteal pulled down my pants and it was then that I felt a spark of lust. "You're hard, Sir," she observed, the water in her throat running dry as she glanced at my cock.

"Even if I were tired with no strength left in me, I would still be aroused by you and your touch, Aesteal," I answered, returning to her the compliments due her. For her part, her cheeks turned a light crimson.

"Not tonight, Sir. Rest for now," she said.

I slipped out of my pants and turned to her. I then took her arm in my hand. "I would rest easier with you in my arms than without," I said. She looked at me skeptically, yet I knew she wouldn't refuse me. Instead, she just nodded.

I sat on my bed and watched her discard her clothes. When she weaved her head, the color of her silver hair was a wondrous contrast against the flames of my lanterns. Indeed she was beautiful, very beautiful. She was a cool, yet warm jewel amongst a sea of rags.

Aesteal turned to me, fully naked. "I'm pleased I continue to excite you, Sir," she said.

"Aye, that you do. Now come and lay with me. We'll voyage into the Sea of Dreams together," I beckoned. She agreed, taking a moment to blow out any of the candles. She then came to me and slipped into my bed with me. Fortunately or unfortunately, I was still hard and my cock was brushed up between the valley of her lower cheeks.

"Can you truly rest with such a beast ready to assault me?" she inquired.

"Would you complain if I indulged while you slept?" I asked.

Aesteal touched my arms and chuckled. "I am yours, Sir. Do what you please," she voiced as the silence began to draw long. Even with the noise outside, it didn't take me long to fall asleep. The exhaustion was too much for even my lust to push back. Instead, I surrendered to the rest offered me as my aura mixed with Aesteal's.

My dreams took me far and wide, no place beyond my reach. Yet, I quickly began to notice that the further I journeyed, the darker everything around me became. First, it was the clouds, then it was the water. Soon, I found myself surrounded by perpetual darkness so thick that I could practically feel it upon my skin.

Confused, I wondered where everything had gone until I spotted An'raie in the distance. Not one to know why she'd intrude in my dreams, I attempted to call out to her yet my voice remained stuck in my throat. In fact, it was like the darkness of my dreams had stuffed my mouth and throat. However, that didn't stop my legs. I ran to An'raie and hoped to find some way of communicating with her.

I ran and ran, yet I never got closer to my goal. An'raie floated just out of my view before I slowed to a stop. In that darkness, I stood for who knows how long, contemplating how I might achieve my goal. However, fortune must have smiled on me this time because An'raie turned her head in my direction.

I wished to wave at her, gaining her attention if I could, but my arms and legs were bound next. Struggle as I might, I couldn't prevail over the strength of the blackness surrounding me. First, my voice. Then, my arms and legs.

I was restricted on all sides with nary a drop of water or mana to aid me. Just before I'd lost all hope, I suddenly noticed An'raie right in front of me. As usual, her eyes were blocked by the metal covering. Yet, I knew she was looking at me. I also noticed the changes in her body. It was glowing with an ethereal light that ought not to be there for a necromancer of her caliber.

She looked down at me, floating there in this darkness as the only source of light present. I watched her carefully. However, I wasn't prepared for her to undress. She discarded her robe without concern and I was finally graced with the sight of her body.

As I stared, I would have laughed if I could. How the alchemist could have thrown away a woman such as this was beyond my reasoning. Just like Liara, I knew there would be men who'd go to war for a chance at bedding An'raie if they could. Some would even attempt to throw the seas into chaos at such a pursuit.

That said, it wasn't lost on me the irony that a spirit would have such a spectacular body that most living women would desire to have. What added to her sensuality was her grace. Ordinary women, not even my mother, Naala, or Ellen walked as she did. She was a woman of the courts, having met with many highly-esteemed officials and powerful figures wrapped in flamboyantly noble garments.

And she stood before me. It was only then did I realize that somehow, I was just as naked as her. I knew not when my clothes had been discarded, but I couldn't say that I didn't enjoy the feeling. Especially not, when she knelt in front of me. With barely a finger, she traced the underside of my cock, and the pleasure I felt seemed to ripple throughout the rest of my body.

And while this was indeed exciting, I didn't much enjoy being toyed with like this. I tried to move but to no avail. When An'raie neared my cock, I thought we might repeat what we did back in the empire, but something must have gone wrong. An'raie suddenly frowned and backed away from me. Her face turned to me and I saw the way she seemed displeased. I knew not what happened, but she immediately flew away, granting me free rein of both voice and limbs.

"An'raie!" I called as the darkness lifted. I gritted my teeth in frustration even as my clothes returned and color returned to my dreams. Before I could call out to her again, I was slipped back into where I'd left off with whatever I'd been doing as sleep continued to claim the rest of my being.

For a moment, I thought An'raie might have returned to finish what she started. Waves of pleasure rolled throughout my body as I felt the wet, yet warm caverns of something slimy. Unfortunately, I knew it couldn't be The Lonely Wail because my ears started to pick up on the sounds of the sea and birds in the salty air. The usual creaks of my ship were a blissful alarm along with the slowly ascending ecstasy.

As I found myself out of my dreams, I drearily groaned. "It ain't like to be unable to wait, Aesteal," I commented as I lifted the sheets. Imagine my fucking surprise when I discover not my bonded elf on my cock, but Diane instead.

"Finally, you're awake. I was starting to feel a little fucking insulted that it'd take me this long to wake you up," she said, popping my cock out of her mouth.

Still attempting to shake off the sleep, I turned my head and saw Aesteal still sleeping. I then faced Diane. "And what did I deserve to be woken up like this for?" I asked, still trying to find myself.

"...Simple. I need my fucking pay," she returned, eagerly returning to stuffing my cock into her mouth like it wasn't even a concern. Between the pleasure and my absorbing her lust, it didn't take me long to fully awaken.

"And what pay would that be?" I inquired, thoroughly enjoying the way Diane deepthroated my cock. Hers was an aggressive attack that made my side of the bed shake. The suction of her lips and the assailing of her tongue made me wonder if Diane had been the one pleasuring me during my moment with An'raie.

"The pay for teaching your damn mother how to fight. You could have warned me dammit. Imagine my surprise when she greets me with a punch to the jaw and asks me how to fight. I thought she was fucking crazy until she told me you approved it. I don't think you know me that well because I sure as hell don't teach for free," she said.

"And this is good pay to you?" I returned amused at her words.

Diane snorted. "You'd be surprised how many cunts would pay for a good fuck. Besides, what the fuck are you complaining about? You're getting your fucking dick sucked. And I don't think I need to remind you that I ran halfway around Hæňgaram dealing with bullshit. I think I deserve my damn turn," she answered as her scalding hot tongue massaged the length of my shaft.

With the lust flowing into me, it didn't take long for me to find my grove. Even if it would take me time, I doubted Diane would wait for me. She continued to jerk me off. Her tongue sailed along her lips as the friction between her hand and my cock created a delicate, yet pleasing heat for the both of us.

"Mmmmmmm! Yup, this is definitely a good cock. Nice, hard, and hot. I could... toy with this thing all damn day," Diane said, her eyes glossing over my meat like a long-lost companion.

When I glanced at her, I watched her slap my cock against her tongue. Her eyes bore into mine with a steadily rising need. She then reached over and grabbed one of her tits. Eagerly, she pinched her nipple and twisted it between her thumb and forefinger.

The sensations she felt were soon enough felt by me. Just as with other times, my breathing became uneven. The way her hand would tease the crown for a second or two before dropping down to the base was expertly done. As with so much of our time together, it seemed Diane had quickly started to learn where I would receive the most pleasure.

Like with any battle, Diane attacked whatever weakpoint I showcased mercilessly. I could practically sense the satisfaction burned onto her lips when she made me shiver. From my cock, her tongue sailed down to my balls. She then popped one in her mouth, sucking and pulling it while her handjob increased in both strength and speed. I grit my teeth, my body absorbing more and more lustful essence until the very thought of sleep had left me.

I think I surprised Diane because she stopped momentarily when I grabbed the back of her head. "If I'm gonna pay you, then best you properly earn it," I answered, receiving a challenging smirk in reply.

"I think I'm working pretty hard already. What more do I gotta fucking do?" she inquired.

Oh, I could most definitely think of a few things.

"GUGH!" Diane coughed as I jammed my man meat back into her mouth.

"Take a guess," I replied.

With the sands of sleep vacant from my eyes and my body, I honed in on Diane quickly. With my strength, I took control of her head. Her lips wrapped tightly around my cock as I drove deeper and deeper into her mouth, fucking her face with nary a care. Obsessingly, I thrust my hips into her face while my balls slapped her chin.

"NNnnnngh! Nuuuugh! Hnnngnghghgh! GUNNNGH! F-Fuck yes! G-Gimme that fucking c-c-cooohghk!" she groaned.

I adhered to her desires. I wished I could say that I gave some regard to Aesteal who was still sleeping, but my mind was too clouded by lust. My side of the bed started to shake as I sensed Diane vigorously stuff her fingers into her pussy. Her juices spilled out and her legs quivered. She didn't try to brace herself with her hand on my legs. Instead, she reveled in the rough passion. Her eyes rolled in her head with bliss.

If there was one thing I had to praise, it was Diane's tongue. Even as I shoved my man's mast in and out of her cavern soaked in spit, her tongue still found time to slide against the hole of my shaft. She'd caress the upper and lower sides of my hardened surface, instilling even greater pleasure in me.

After a while of thrusting into her face, I slammed once more and kept her nose pressed against my pelvis. The vibrating hums of her throat were a fucking delight that I couldn't begin to describe. It seemed as if every inch of my body was overcome with a desire for her toned, muscular frame. And, I bet she knew that too.

Her mouth was hot, inviting like a shelter for a cold man. Her spit would slather down my cock, somehow granting me an even easier time caressing the early entrances of her throat muscles.

"MMMMMMMMMMMMNGH!" Diane suddenly cried, more like garbled as I was filled with the lust from her sudden orgasm. The flames were so potent that I had no chance to resist so early in the morning. I could only grit my teeth and feed her the thick ropes of cum that blasted out of my hole.

Like the hungry slut she was, Diane welcomed every bit of the morsel that she could get. Every drop she swallowed even as my cock already started to grow hard in her mouth. Her cheeks bloated a little before I extracted myself from her. When my dick was out, I noticed the briefest trail of semen on her tongue. The guard panted lustfully, swallowing that as well.

"Shit. If I didn't know any better, I'd say you were trying to kill me," she panted out, her voice still dripping with need.

Rather than answer, I swung my legs around and landed my feet on the floor. As expected, it was pretty damn cold, especially when compared to how hot I felt. "Fret not, I'll give you a few more close encounters," I said as I grabbed her. I swung her legs around which gave me a clear view of her drenched pussy.

The stench permeating from it made my head spin and my cock harden in painful ways. "You know, most fuckers don't enjoy this sort of thing," she said as I brushed her legs up on my shoulders.

"When have I ever cared what most other fuckers do?" I asked not really expecting an answer. Instead, I dove into her cunt with her tongue granting her a return on the pleasures she'd given me.

"Ooooo fuck! Yesssss! Shit that feels good. Mmmmmmmmmmngh! Y-Yeah!!" she huffed as she leaned back. I sensed the way she buried her nails in my sheets, pulling them so that they might help alleviate her somewhat. Though, I wasn't sure just how much alleviating she desired since she had her hand on my head, urging me forward in my task.

Of the things I noticed, Diane's pussy tasted vastly different from the others. While my lips moved my tongue through her nether lips, her juices seemed to continually invigorate me in a manner different from the Essence of Vilinlith. It was intoxicating, filling my head with exquisite drunkenness.

My lips pulled her lips and she responded with a sharp groan. It must have been a groan too much because I felt a calming aura come to me.

"Truly, your lecherous tendencies know no bounds, Sir."

I opened my eyes and watched Aesteal on the other side of the bed. She chose not to intervene, instead preferring to watch as Diane huffed, her chest moving and her nipples stiffening.

"You try keeping quiet when he does this to you!" Diane returned, wrapping her strong legs around my neck.

I noticed Aesteal didn't respond. Instead, she just continued to watch carefully, licking her elven lips every now and then. I then focused my efforts back on Diane, snaking my tongue deep into her body. I even used a portion of the magic from Vilinlith to elongate my tongue, climbing further through her canal than any man who'd been there before her.

"UUUUUUUUUGH! Oooooooooooh fuck! H-How are you f-fucking... doing that?! SHIT!" she groaned, grabbing my head and arching back as she came over my face. I licked what I could but such a torrent couldn't be tamed by any man for too long.

When Diane released me, she fell back on the bed. "F-Fuck. That was fucking incredible," she heaved out, sweat glistening down her frame.

"Bet you be happy that this captain has such a sharp tongue now," I said. Diane responded by flipping me off.

I knew just the retort to give to such a rude response. When I looked at my cock, it was raring to go. In fact, I wondered if my eyes were playing tricks on me because it seemed to change color. There were a few hints of red and purple essence that traveled up and down it. I would have thought more of it, but I was too aroused.

Diane, in her daze, must not have felt me nudge myself between her legs, but she definitely felt the crown of my cock push against her opening. Unlike how this started out, I opted for a calmer approach. Slowly, I pushed myself into her. Her lips spread apart to accommodate me, and her teeth gnashed together with her hissing in rapture.

Her pussy was as strong and trained as the rest of her, choking my mast as I continued to climb further and further in. Every curve stimulated the corners of my flesh. My legs trembled as my brain was tickled by a thousand wonderful sensations. Diane rubbed my arms, enjoying the slow pace I'd set as she drew me in until I couldn't go further.

I rested as far as I could go in her and her legs wrapped around my waist. "Can't lie. Really thought you were gonna fuck my ass again with this big dick of yours," Diane said, her voice trembling while she no doubt enjoyed the full measure of my shaft inside her.

"There shall be other days and nights for that. Right now, I shall pay you your dues," I said. I then leaned down and kissed her. Of course, Diane couldn't settle for gentle. She kissed me back, biting my lip and pulling it. In response, I grabbed one of her breasts and pulled at her nipples. That really got her pussy to shake, squeezing my cock for all it was worth.

"Come on. Fuck me. Bury that long, hard, strong cock inside me!" she ordered.

For once, it was an order I had no problems complying with. I reared my hips back and slammed them forward. The bed shook and so did Diane. I then did it again.

And again.

And again!

"Ooooooooooh! Mmmmmmmmhngh! Fuck yeessssssss! C-Come on! Fuck me harder! R-R-Really give it to me dammit!" she demanded.

"You talk too much," I said, covering her mouth with my hand. I then proceeded to focus on my task. I fucked Diane and I fucked her hard. My cock pumped in and out of her cunt, bathed in her sleek wetness at every turn. Every nook, every cranny, every surface of her insides was exploded by me and she welcomed the exploration.

I felt her lips tremble and watched her eyes roll back. She enjoyed this. She enjoyed it a whole lot.

Between my thrusts and the creaking of the ship, I knew not which one was fiercer. Aesteal continued to watch us, absently touching herself with half-lidded eyes. Lust had already claimed her as well, yet she made no move to be a part of our passion. Of course, I wouldn't deny the enjoyment of an audience. As much as I hated my beloved currently, I enjoyed the shows we'd put on for others willing to share our bed.

"MMmmmngh! Hnnnngh! KUUUUUUHK! Hn! Gnh! Hnnaaaangh!" Diane grunted, working her hips in tandem with mine. I removed my hand from her mouth and kissed her again. This time, I shoved my tongue in her throat forcing her to wrestle with me while her arms wrapped around my neck and shoulders. Her fingers explored my broad back, her strength easily letting her claw at my skin.

Despite the pain, I soldiered onward emboldened by the lust taking over me. I fucked her like I'd become a slave to an aphrodisiac and her voice was a marbled symphony that crashed into my mouth. When she came, I actually feared she might break my pelvis. She squeezed me so hard with her legs while her womanly cavern did the same to my cock.

"Shit. Fuck that felt good," Diane panted.

I would have offered a comment, but she quickly showed the depth of her training by rolling the both of us over. Even though I was standing, I'd fallen to the other side of the bed with her in top of me. When I looked at her, she looked like a foreign perverse statue. Her eyes were filled with sexual vigor and her short hair became wet from the early exercise.

She brushed some of her hair away. "Not bad, but don't think I'm gonna let you do this to me all the time. It's my turn," she contested.

Her knees digging into my bed, Diane slammed her hips down onto me. Truth be told, though the reversal was unexpected, the view were sure welcome. In my first life, I'd have paid a damn treasure chest in gold to watch Diane's tits bounce in front of me like this. Her face devolved into a woman of wanton desire. She grabbed my hands and placed them on her breasts, all while she humped my pelvis.

I didn't even try to fight my second orgasm. I was more than happy to fill her with my cum. I'd grit my teeth and grunt like a wild beast of the fields. Yet, she never stopped slamming her hips to meet mine. Her hands on my chest, she huffed.

"C-Come on, Captain! F-Fuck! FFHnnnuhn! Fuck, this... is... so... NNNNNNNNNNNNNGGHH!" She growled cumming again as I was fueled by her desire. Just as she wished, I kept up with her. I made sure to let her know that anything she could give, I could return. Never again would she have to wake up feeling dissatisfied with her partner. I'd meet any challenge she had for me.

After a while, we changed position again. Aesteal had the perfect view of Diane's unkempt face as I fucked her from behind. "Mmmmmmmmmmgh! Yeah! FUCK! Gods, your cock feels so good! P-Probably the only thing that's good about you!" she claimed unashamedly in front of Aesteal.

My Bonded Elf smiled. "Is it really so desirable?" she asked, not so subtly reaching a hand beneath the sheets.

"I-It's f-fucking... amazing. G-Goddamn! It's... s-so deep inside, s-scratching every itch. T-Throbbing like a damn volcano ready to explode every time! Every thrust... makes my fucking legs s-s-s-shake! GHUK! MMMMMNGH!" Diane panted. She then lurched when I pulled her up and grabbed her throat. Her ass jiggled from the force of my thrusts as saliva trailed down the side of her mouth. I turned her to me and claimed her lips again. This time, there was no biting. Instead, she kissed me back, rubbing a hand through my hair.

"Y-Yes, it l-l-looks... amazing," Aesteal panted, biting her lips. I received lustful power from her as well, sensing the way she pleasured herself. Her pleasure was my pleasure when I felt her tease her clit. Yet, she still would not involve herself.

Diane and I fucked every which way, filling my room with enough lust to even make a den of succubi go mad with desire. Sometimes, I wondered if this was what that bastard Zeus enjoyed with whatever mortal lass he fancied. He certainly had enough of them to fill up every day of the year and then some.

I slammed Diane against the wall and she pinned me with her. I shoved my cock into her deep crevice, her eyes urging me on with provocation. I matched whatever she wished until I felt her pussy quiver again. My orgasm wasn't far off as the lustful energies continued to mix and swirl violently together. I wondered if Seraphina had already left the island. If not, I was sure even she might get a dose to take to the seas with her.

"FUCK!" Diane screamed, curling her toes while I maintained just enough will to glance at Aesteal.

"Come," I ordered.

Obediently, she nodded. When she was at the edge of the bed, I continued to spear through Diane's sheath. Male and female fluids poured out of her hole like a waterfall, splashing beneath my feet while I sensed the cum swiftly leaving my balls and traveling through my dick.

Setting Diane down, I pulled out of her and shoved my cock into Aesteal's mouth.

I clenched my teeth and groaned, bucking my hips until I released my load down her gullet. My orgasm triggered hers while she coughed my load onto the sheets of my bed. Of course, that didn't stop her from getting whatever she could from the rest. My cock twitched four or five times, each time releasing more cum than I thought was finished.

When I had no more to give, I stumbled back and watched Aesteal's eyes like they were in a cloudy haze. I then noticed Diane kiss Aesteal, taking some of the cum left either on her lips or cheek. I knew not why she was greedy, her own body had more than enough of my cum to savor. Not to mention the lasting vestiges that continued to spill from her snatch. I'd also chosen not to mention the way her legs continued to tremble, rather pleased with myself.

"Be your dues paid now?" I asked.

Diane glanced in my direction, lapping one last piece of cum from her lips while Aesteal remained on my bed. "It'll do for now," she said, sitting on my bed. I imagined that any other circumstance would have her leave if her legs were strong enough.

Suddenly, there came a bang on my door.

"When you're done fucking your dumb sluts in there, the crew awaits your command to set sail! A storm is set to fall on us if we don't get ahead of it!" Ellen exclaimed from behind the door.

Diane sucked her teeth. "If I could move my legs, I'd fucking show her who the dumb slut really is!" she scowled while Aesteal chuckled.

"I'm not sure there would be much of a difference," Aesteal responded, a rare moment of my sarcasm flourishing through her.

"Ha ha ha. Real fucking funny, Elf. Glad to see you took more from the Captain than his fucking loads while we've been on this ship," Diane returned.

In the meantime, I opened one of the windows to my quarters and stared out into the sea. What Ellen said was true. I could smell the salty sea waves and I felt their turbulence. A mighty fine storm would be upon us before long. It would still take many days to reach Draegnar.

After taking a moment to collect myself, I decided that Ellen was right. I'd had no further use in staying here, even if I wished to be given some time to wonder about what had disturbed my dreams with An'raie. If she were influenced by the same things, she didn't seem to care for comment on the matter. Though I knew better than to press the necromancer for answers. I still hadn't even gotten an answer on what happened to us back in the empire.

Either way, I grabbed my coat and stood up. "Be sure to let me know if you ever wish for any other payment options," I teased which got a griping mumble from Diane. Aesteal bid me farewell as I closed the door behind me.

It was then that I realized the ship wasn't as bare as I thought. A lot of my men cast knowing glances at me. Some even saluted me for my debauchery. Hell, even Naala eyed me mischeviously, obviously knowing what I'd been up to when Ellen pounded on my door.

And speaking of Ellen, she swiftly spotted me and cast a glare in my direction. "I believe you can expect a challenge from Diane in the near future, Ellen. You've wounded the lass more than a shiv to the gut," I commented.

My Quartermaster just dismissed the concern. "Then let her come. I still owe her an ass-kicking anyway. Though, if the sounds from your door were any concern, I'd say she came enough," she answered.

Offering something between a snort and a chuckle, I wrapped my hand around Ellen's waist and pulled her to me. She stared at me in shock. "Would you fancy being next? Just say the word and I shall make succubi jealous of you," I teased.

"You make it real hard not to wanna blow your brains out sometimes," she returned, wounding this old dog's heart.

"Only sometimes? Best I stop slacking off then," I said, stealing a kiss from her before she could try to stop me.

"Aye, ferry the lass, Captain! Ain't no better a day than for a man to share his bed with such lively company!" someone hollered and the others joined in.

Despite the embarrassment, it became clear that Ellen had grown used to my tendencies. In fact, dare I say she started enjoying them. Her hand caressed my cheek and she kissed me back in spite of the way she scrunched up her face.

When we separated, she brushed a hand over her lips. "You know I fucking hate it when you do that," she said.

I dared not respond lest I draw her ire more than I should. Instead, I ordered the assembly of the crew. We then weighed anchor and my ship continued its voyage. At some point during the trip, Diane finally made her appearance. Ellen got a good laugh out of watching her stumble her way back below the deck.

Of course, I couldn't let her have such a smirk for too long. "You'll be walking the same way soon enough," I whispered into her ear. Angered, though flustered, she shoved me back and buried her head in her work.

Then, it was Aesteal's turn to appear and she had the fairmaids in her hands. Of course, they couldn't wait to jump off the side of the ship and start swimming through the vast seas opened to them. I supposed I hadn't given them much to explore with having them confined back in Hæňgaram. Yet, they never uttered any complaint on the matter. I reasoned that I could leave them off the ship so long as their curiosity didn't go too far out of control. Having been stuck on Delverhold, I knew there was much for them to learn of the world beyond it.

Of course, over the days, I stopped worrying about the fairmaids and started worrying about my ship. As expected, even with my increasing of our speed, we weren't able to escape the storm. That said, I think my crew was lucky enough to have the Son of Poseidon as their captain.

The waves were fierce and the wind was treacherous. I never thought I'd face such a storm following the many I'd suffered trying to reach Delverhold. With the hatches battened down, and the sails hoisted up, Ellen ordered the crew with relentless efficiency.

"Captain, we be takin' on water!" someone hollered as I waved my hand and forced down a rising tidal wave. All the while, I cursed as I moved a finger and guided the water on the second floor back out and into the sea.

Even Nei and her sisters did what they could, breaking waves with violent bursts of magic from their mouths. It made me wonder if some foulmouthed god was trying to sink my vessel and all its treasure into the briny deep.

Yet, if they were hoping for such an outcome, then they'd be disappointed. Even as the hull of my ship sailed over turbulent waves and crashed into the sea's ground, I never waved. While this was a bad storm, I'd been in far worse.

"Ain't meaning no disrespect, Captain, but if you be angry then please point us to the scurvy dog and we'll throw the bastard or bitch overboard! Ain't no need to sink us all into Davy Jones' Locker!" someone hollered over the rising storm.

"Hinik, shut yer pie hole and let the Captain work! Ain't no better time to get your sea legs than now if you gonna sail with a fucker as insane as the Captain!" another hollered from the crow's nest, firing lightning spells to send away any strikes that might break the masts of my ship.

Aye, the storm was fierce but my men were fiercer. After a grueling four hours of battling the sea, we were successful in staying alive. I rewarded everyone's efforts with a full two days off to do what they pleased and granted the fairmaids ample reward with any morsels to their liking.

It had taken the efforts of the entire ship to keep us steady, but we'd survived and the weeks passed before Maeloson alerted my crew to land. While the warning was welcome, I'd realized that we'd entered Draegnar's treacherous seas by the piles of ship wreckage floating there.

Hell, even from afar the familiar smell of smoke, blood, violence, and putrid shit stung my nose. You could even hear the all-too-familiar sound of gunfire ringing through the vast air.

"Funny. You've taken us so many places, I've forgotten what a proper shithole this place actually is," Ellen remarked, folding her arms as I absently watched for any whirlpool signs.

"Aye, no matter where you sail, you always find a means to return to the same piece of shit as when you started," I answered, eying a buoy of a decaying man's body. He looked like he'd been left to the mercy of the Draegnar's violent gulls. His eyes and tongue had been plucked out and it looked like the rest of him was sure to follow.

The poor bastard was just one of thousands who were tied to the wooden posts surrounding the entrance to the island. Men and women were hung out like the torn curtains of my mother and I's former housing. Each of them was more bloodied and dead than the last.

Of course, that wasn't all to welcome us. I sensed Nei and her sisters swarm the poor bastard who'd been hiding beneath the waves, just waiting for a ship to pass by so they might board it and kill any on it. Though, I knew not what was worse: Nei and her sister or my crew. I'd begun to realize that Nei definitely took my attitude toward my enemies.

She'd grab one and pull him far under the ship, doing whatever she wished with him. The other fairmaids were quick to join her.

After a while of this, I signaled that she and her sisters might enjoy their fun of Draegnar's seas while we stayed here. They were all too happy to swim off, Aesteal's fairmaid joining them.

While they left, we continued to enter the island's docks. Already, my ears picked up on the sound of business. Hundreds of men littered the docks, some moving crates and boxes while others bartered with whatever coin was at this disposal.

Once we were pulled in, the ship was tied down and we released the walking planks.

"Ellen, gather the crew," I said.

Sothshore nodded and soon all my men were before me. My mother looked understandably ragged, no doubt having still been fighting with Diane for some time. Out of the corner of my eye, I spotted more than a few onlookers. Many of them whispered their perceptions of my crew while I spoke.

"Do what you desire. We be on Draegnar for two days. That'll be the time needed to restock the ship with all manner of materials. Once onboard we shall head to the southwest, past the lands of Ildenshire and into the region of Olipios. Be warned that if I have to wait for you, then you'll be swabbing the deck till your limbs becomes mops!" I warned.

"AYE AYE, CAPTAIN!" my crew chorused.

Pleased by their words, I dismissed them. Surprisingly, Nz'ia offered to stay on the ship. I wasn't sure whether this was out of fear of the water, or boredom from having hunted on the island already. Either way, I didn't think too much on it.

"Ellen, Naala, the two of be with me," I said.

It didn't take long for my powder monkey to walk over to me, swinging her finger around the trigger of her unloaded pistol. "And what can I do ya for, Captain?" Naala inquired. She smiled at me in a way that made me wonder what thoughts might be going through her head.

"Behave yourself, Naala. Lest you get in trouble," I warned, still amused by her.

She swiftly closed next to me and traced my shoulder with her finger. "What is life without a little bit of trouble, Captain? Besides, I ain't no child. I can handle it, and the one administering it," she challenged.

I chuckled. I wouldn't mind testing that conviction of hers once we'd sailed from Draegnar. After all, sailing for Olipios would prove a long journey.

"Good. I always did like it when the grunts showed more initiative. You've been rather sugar-lipped as of late. So if ever Captain can't think of a punishment, I know one that'll straighten you out," Ellen said as Naala turned to her.

I watched my ebony gunner grin. "Oh come now, Ellen. What's the use in commanding a ship of sea hoarders if ya can't handle a bit of backsass?" she answered as I watched Sothshore fold her arms.

"Then, you'd best be grateful you're this asshole's crew. Had I my way, the rest of you would have better just like those pieces of shit hanging out there on the wooden spikes. The last bastard who dared backsass made sure to never do it again. It's quite hard to do when you're tongues been ripped out," Ellen warned, though I knew Naala wouldn't be off-put by details. In fact, her grin widened.

As much as I would love to hear them trade barbs, I focused their attention back on me. "Ellen, bring me the list of all the supplies for the ship. Those who have chosen to stay on the ship on the ship can carry them and store them away. You know the island better than I do, Ellen. Ain't no one better at business than you, and Naala, recommend any munitions that the ship will need. This shall be the last time in a while that we shall settle upon Draegnar," I claimed.

"Anything?" Naala asked.

I feared the intrigue in her eyes, yet I nodded anyway. Somehow, I imagined I'd come to regret it later.

And regret it, I fucking did. If there was one thing even a bastard such I feared more than any fate of death placed upon me, it was the fate of every man who kept a woman's company over a long period of time.

Lasses, whether noble or peasant, rich or poor, pirate or soldier, loved shopping.

Men and women, murderers and rapists, addicts and drunkards, watched in shock as I carried three wooden crates of supplies with Ellen and Naala in front of me. If there was one thing this display of strength was worth, it was the fact that I'd not have to spill any blood on Draegnar's ale-ridden streets. Any thief would know to think twice before attempting to assail my ship for its cargo.

I placed them down at the pier and the crew members who stayed brought them below deck. Other movers, pirates, and businessmen on the pier were stunned as they witnessed the strength of my crew, moving the boxes with nary a break in sweat. Not even a levitation spell was needed.

For all the work I did, I still found myself filled with pride and awe as I watched Ellen barter with merchants and tavern owners. As expected, even if she were gone for months, none could forget the fear she instilled when she spoke. One word from her had the hairs of men standing on end. One haggle too far invited her fury and I paid what she settled on.

As I placed one of the boxes down, I pulled her to me. "Fret not for your tavern, Ellen. As I swore, I shall not let your hard work over the years go to waste. It shall thrive and continue to thrive here. Worry not for it," I said.

To my surprise, Ellen leaned into my arms and huffed. "It's yours now. You're only hurting yourself if the piece of shit goes under. But, thanks. I'll take your damned word for it," she replied before we got back to work.

There wasn't anything difficult about the world put on me. It was just a tedious sort. I must have moved over a hundred crates of fine wine, spices, herbs, dried meats, and bread toward the ship. That didn't even count Naala's list.

As expected, my gunner had an eye for detail and settled for nothing but Draegnar's best... which was still shit when compared to the standards of any other nation. But, it was better to have good shit than no shit at all.

Of course, I wasn't about to carry back a hundred crates of magic-laced cannonballs back to the ship. I had no need to worry of that mess getting stolen. Now the munitions for the guns were much easier, though no less the quantity. I'd have to watch Naala's spending in the future. To order over three hundred crates of ammo and a hundred crates of guns was pushing it. Then again, when I also considered the number of men aboard my ship, I couldn't deny her thinking that we might need much. That also didn't include the types of enemies I tended to face. Perhaps in the midst of my trials, I was simply complaining as a man does on occasion.

However, I sure as hell ain't gonna be the one to etch runes into all of those bullets. I'd sooner keel over and swallow every moonstone in D'orn. Never mind that all of this was coming out of my own pocket anyway. Of course, it was no major concern of mine to pay for this, yet I believed the principle of the matter to be quite different.

Either way, we were finished and I dismissed Ellen and Naala, paying them as well for the help they'd offered. "...You know we don't need this right?" Naala asked, holding the small sack of gold in her hands.

"Even a pirate would believe in honest wages for honest work, Naala. Though you share my bed, I shall not withhold from you what is rightfully yours. Now, you're both dismissed to do as you please upon the island," I said as I turned around, watching the rest of the crew work meticulously.

"And where are you going?" Ellen inquired.

My lips curved upwards. "To see an old friend of mine," I said as I left the ship.

As I entered the streets of Draegnar, feeling the occasional stare on me as I passed by. I absently watched as a pickpocket cackled to himself, holding the coin pouch from some poor shit he'd just pilfered.

"Ay, pal, want a stick of Newt's Tongue? J-Just got it from my supplier. One sniff of this shit'll have your brain so fucked it, you'll think you're dicking d-down one of the noble women of Ritlim! I gots ya one bag for ten bronze coins! C-Come on! Take a trip on the wild side," a man from one of the dark alleyways said, his teeth crooked and his eyes like those of a starved vulture.

"Hey! Come on, man! Ain't no shit on Draegnar better than this! You'll love it! HEY!"

At some point, the noise of Draegnar's smoke-filled populace and labyrinth city streets gave way to its rowdy fields. I spotted the Lindengar estate against the setting of the sun. As always, the estate's gates were impressive to behold. Even upon this rock, there were many, rich and poor, who envied Falvor and Anastasia.

I waited for it to get dark and brought down heavy rain upon the island. Aye, while there were easier ways to infiltrate the Lindengar Estate, I much preferred this method. In fact, I wondered what Anastasia might use to try and thwart my entry this time.

Just like the other times, I stepped into the air under the cloak of darkness. I then walked over to her bedroom window. When I approached, I realized how dark the inside looked. I wondered if the Mistress of the Estate had been away since I'd known her to have her lights lit around this time.

When I touched her window, I snorted. "No secrets this time, Anastasia? It ain't like you to give up so easily," I said to myself as I unlocked the window. Pushing them apart, I stepped inside and weaved the rainwater from my clothes.

Immediately, I frowned as I entered. The room was surprisingly cold, especially since a woman like Anastasia very much enjoyed her many comforts. Not only that but one of her mirrors was broken, shards of glass laying on the floor.

Curious, I picked up one of the pieces. Other than the broken mirror, nothing seemed out of place in her room. Yet, I knew something was wrong as Yile would have replaced anything broken if Anastasia wished her to.

Immediately, I scanned the house. I sensed the water in over a hundred guards patrolling the grounds and over fifty maids and ten butlers passing through the corridors. More than a few of them passed by the door, never paying it a mind. Yet, all of them were nervous. Their hearts pumped just a little faster whenever they walked by.

I waited for another to pass by. It seemed to be a maid with a tray. Not wasting a moment, I swiftly took control of the water in her body, keeping her in place. Before she could scream, I clogged her throat. I then faced her toward the door. Her heartbeat sounded like violent drums in my ears as I opened the door.

"Utter one word that I don't tell you and I promise that you won't enjoy the fate that befall you, lass. I suggest you choose wisely," I said as she stared at me in shock.

Quickly, she nodded. "I'll also warn you, do not be a gambler tonight. You won't win," I said.

She nodded again and I released my hold on the water in her throat. I then grabbed her by the arm and pulled her inside.

"P-Please don't..."

I rolled my eyes. "Cease your whimpering. Where be your mistress? And what happened here?" I asked. The maid looked at me, her hands shaking the tray.

"Y-You mean Lady Anastasia?" she asked.

My lips thinned. "No, lass. I meant the other mistress your Master's taken on this forsaken island! Aye, Anastasia! Where is she?" I asked.

The maid swallowed nervously. "L-Lady Anastasia is no longer a member of the Lindengar Estate. L-Lord Falvor discovered some dealings of hers and had her and her maid sold. I think it had to do with the war in Hæňgaram. S-She was sending troops to where her husband hadn't authorized. I-I know not where they are, but they were sold perhaps two moons ago. L-Lady Anastasia tried to resist, but she was easily captured. Since her selling, it has been ordered that her room not be touched lest the servants and soldier be drawn and quartered at Lord F-Falvor's pleasure. The Lord has been very irate as of late," she said.

I frowned, glancing off to the side at the floor. It was then that I remembered Falvor had a deal with Zevmar to support his troops. No doubt that deal had gone to hell if Lindengar soldiers were appearing in Ynro to aid the empire. Perhaps the gains he'd received from Hæňgaram weren't enough to stem his anger at the loss of whatever he'd been promised from Zevmar.

I must have been holding the maid for too long because she swiftly started stammering.

"T-That's all I k-know! I swear on the blood grave of my m-mother!" she exclaimed.

I looked at the trembling maid and sighed. "You be a maid lass, a mere servant to the lords and ladies in high places. I bet you know a thing or two about discretion. Best put that discretion to practice because if you tell anyone I was here, there won't be any land far enough to keep you from me," I threatened as I reached into my pouch and tossed two small sacks of silver coins on her tray.

I stepped out the window and she watched in shock as I used the rainfall to climb higher. I then circled around the Lindengar Estate and found Falvor in his own room. It seemed that I'd just missed some sort of conversation because I briefly spotted the armor of a soldier exiting his room. Falvor had an irritated snarl on his face as he grabbed the ends of his luxurious dresser and toppled it over.

"Dammit! Even gone you're still a pain! Everything I've worked lays in ruins! Indeed I should have listened to my father sooner and gotten rid of you when I had the chance. Why is it that a woman somehow has the means to always tear down what a man builds up?! Not even the money I received will be enough to recoup my losses! SHIT!" he exclaimed as he continued his tirade.

I watched him for a little while longer until he calmed himself.

"Someone get in here and clean up this mess!" he hollered.

Deciding not to waste any more time, I swiftly took control of his throat, squeezing it shut. His eyes widened as he grabbed his neck in horror. I then took the time to face him in my direction. Once he saw me, he tried to speak out, but I kept a firm hold on any attempt to reach anyone outside his door.

I then let myself in, unlocking his window just as easily as Anastasia's. Without much care, I let my soaked boots step on his carpet. If there was one thing I had to admit, his room was a majestic one. It was filled with all sorts of fancy ornaments that were. unfortunately, ruined by his rage just a few seconds ago.

"Ahoy, matey! This be yer cleaning service that you requested! Shall I begin gettin' rid of the dirt 'round here immediately?" I inquired, forcing him to walk to me until he stared right in my eyes.

I sensed the way Falvor trembled. His heart started beating like it might jump out of his chest.

"The Untouchable Falvor. Many on Draegnar have dreamed of working for a man such as you. Thrice as many have dreamed of standing where you stand. Yet, I wonder how many of them would wish to be you with your very life in the grip of a once lowly bilge rat. Surely even you remember the best of Draegnar's sayings, 'As surely as the sun goes up and down, so too does the life of a bastard amasses his greatest riches on the sand'," I said as his eyes widened.

Before he could even speak, I tapped his forehead. On there glowed a magic rune. Consciousness left his eyes as I found myself sifting through his memories over the last few weeks.

As expected, he'd been in league with Zevmar and made several arrangements to aid the former Hero of Hæňgaram in standing against the Empire. Of course, with his forces appearing on the side of the empire under Anastasia's order, those loyal to Zevmar swiftly met with Falvor. Clearly, the lads didn't take the apparent betrayal lightly. It seemed Falvor was ready to go into hiding after selling his wife and her maid.

Unfortunately, the situation immediately took a turn and so did the frown on my face. I'd have laughed if I were able to at the moment. It seemed I wouldn't have to go far to find Anastasia.

Having what I needed, I pulled myself away from Falvor's mind lest I delve deeper than I was comfortable with. Not that there was anything to harm me, but Falvor was known for his unorthodox tastes. They were ones I didn't fancy viewing.

Once I was out, I stepped back and watched Falvor slump to the ground.

"Y-You! What did you do to me?" he asked, his speech heavily slurred from the experience.

I turned around and grabbed the window. "Ain't nothing a dead man need be so worried about," I said as I walked out. I smirked as I heard the knock on Falvor's door.

"Mr. Lindengar, you call for a servant?" a woman asked behind the door.

I sensed Falvor scramble to his feet. As soon as he opened the door, womanly shrieks were uttered throughout the estate as Falvor passed into the afterlife, courtesy of a slit throat and punctured heart by blades of water.

I landed back on the ground and made my way toward Draegnar's maze-like city while the Lindengar Estate erupted in chaos. I paid it no mind and settled for enjoying the rest of the rain.

Once I entered the city, I made my way to the right. As expected, the streets were mostly cleared from the storm. There were a few bastards and bitches holed up in their tents with others huddled around flaming barrels of iron. On occasion, I spotted someone in the alleyways just waiting for the right target. One must have been enough against me to warn the others I was the wrong target. Poor shit died before he even made it out of the dark corner.

I walked across the bridge connecting one side of the island to the other. As my steps on the stone roads drew long, my ears picked up on the familiar, yet boisterous sounds of drunk patrons coming from The Dead Tales. As I expected, nothing about it changed. Broken windows were plentiful and men were drunk off their asses on its steps.

I passed them by and entered the tavern. My ears rang with song and dance. The musicians play about the room while the wenches search men, human and beastman alike, their stuffed pig with cheek and dried fruits. Tankards of grog were downed in sinful gluttony. Numerous adventurers lay around tables, chatting about their business. I even watched a wench slap a man so hard his teeth fell out when he grabbed her ass.

A few turned their gaze to me, but I paid them no mind. Instead, I spotted Ellen talking with three men and two women in the distance. I ventured over to her, my steps knocking hard against the wood.

When I was close enough, Ellen turned her head and spotted me. Already I could tell she wasn't pleased to see me by the frown on her face. Yet, she swiftly sent the others away and faced me as I drew close to her.

"What was that about?" I asked.

Ellen continued to look at me which made me aware that she might realize the reason for my visit. I was proven right when she addressed my question.

"Just a report on some new purchases that were made not too long ago. Care to explain that?" she responded while the smile on my face got bigger.

"And what pray tell would I have to explain of purchases? Surely, I can't be expected to keep track of every sale the tavern makes while we're at sea," I said, watching her grow more and more unamused with my joking.

"Then, care to explain what the slut of the Lindengar Estate and her maid are doing in my fucking cells beneath the tavern?!" Ellen asked through gritted teeth.

In spite of her anger, I couldn't help but smile.

"...care you for the short version or the long version?" I inquired.

By the end of my question, I was fully convinced my Quartermaster would turn my ship into a captain-less one, or die trying.