NationStates Jolt Archive

"Marci, would you please pass the pasta?" John Strickland, for the first time in a while, was having dinner with his entire family. His wife, Anna and his two children, Marci and Marc, were excitedly talking about international events as they had been unfolding over the past few weeks.

As a former High General and Regent of the Empire, Strickland was now Prince of the newly annexed nations of Four Eagles and Long Knives. The two areas combined were not overly large, but were strategically located on the extreme southern coast of Mercenary Lands, the region that contained all of the nations of Imperial Xeraph.

There had been a bit of trouble with the annexation of Four Eagles in that the son of the King of the country refused to acknowledge the Xeraphian rulers as the legitimate rulers of his country. He had fled to Long Knives with a few thousand followers and attacked Xeraphian troops. He was, of course, defeated, his followers slaughtered, and he was summarily executed by General Jaques DeMolay of the occupying forces.

The prince's father, King Krassner, called a Council of War with his nobles and tribal chieftains and laid plans to exact vengeance against the Empire. The first action was a sniper attack against Strickland, Duke Gorlois of the nation of Black Shadows, and General DeMolay. The Duke was killed, and the attacker had yet to be found.

"So Dad, what's the latest on The Rebellion?" Marc Strickland was nineteen years old, a corporal in the HomeGuard, and anxious for action. His father looked at him sternly. "There is no rebellion, Marc.....not yet anyway. A single attack on us can hardly be considered a rebellion. I don't want that kind of talk to get around the barracks. Understand?"

"Yessir. But what about the rebel build-up in the mountains of Four Eagles and Long Knives? Is anything being done to prepare for another attack?"

Marci, a bit more diplomatic than her brother, said, "Father, we DO have everything under control, do we not?"

Strickland smiled warmly at his children, then at Anna. "Rest assured, honey. We do not have the slightest intention of letting any more nonsense occur from either of those two nations. We have legally annexed them. They are now part of the Empire of Xeraph....whether they like it or not. Amra has personally taken an interest in the situation and is down there arranging for any eventuality that may arise."

"When is he going to be crowned Emperor, Dad?", asked Marc.

"When he's damn well ready, son. Not before. You know him...just like his old man." They all laughed, remembering the stories they had been told about Alaric, Amra's father.

"John...your'e language...", chided his wife.

"Nothing they haven't heard, my dear. Now if I may be excused......"



At that moment, a deafening explosion followed by broken glass, masonry and timbers engulfed the dining room of Strickland's home. Screams could be heard throughout the house, as the Security Team rushed to the house and surrounded it, weapons at the ready.

Strickland picked himself off of the floor, a bit groggy, a few cuts and bruises evident. He quickly called out, "Anna! Marci! Marc....is everyone alright?"

He jumped up and took a quick look around, seeing his children both hobbling around, stunned but apparently alright. He did not see Anna.

"John...." He turned and saw his wife under a pile of rubble, gashed and bloodied. He could see her left leg jutting out at a most unusual angle. "Anna! Are you alright?"

She smiled. "Aside from my leg hurting like six kind of holy hell, I seem to be OK." He pushed debris away from her and held her in his arms while yelling for a medic. He saw that aside from her broken leg, she was in fairly good shape. He smiled at her and said, "My dear....your'e language....."


_________________________________________________________________



News of the attempted assassination spread across the Empire like lightening. Military forces in each of the Imperial nations were assembled and placed on high alert. The ShadowGuard and Vhammpyric Warriors surrounded Strickland's home in Four Eagles assuring that nothing else could happen to him or his family. General DeMolay arrived in less than a half-hour and began organizing the Security Team and beginning the questioning of the team. He would find out how someone could approach the Strickland's home and plant a bomb. Someone was going to pay for their lack of attention.




ooc: this is Part II of the Xeraphian Rebellion. Part I is entitled "Xeraph annexes Four Eagles". If you wish to read it, you can find it here:

http://forums.jolt.co.uk/showthread.php?t=578700

If anyone wants to join, TG me first please. Thanks.

DeMolay walked slowly up and down the line in front of the Security Team. He gave each soldier a cursory glance as he spoke. "Gentlemen, we have had a breach in our security procedures. As you know, Gen. Strickland and his family were attacked and nearly killed just a few hours ago. Fortunately, only his wife was injured. She'll recover fully." He paused. "What I need to know is HOW THE FUCK THIS HAPPENED?" The last five words were shouted at the top of his lungs.

He pointed at the shift sergeant. "You. Speak."

Sergeant York, outwardly calm, replied. "Sir, all security procedures were carried out in their entirety between 1500 hours and 1800 hours. There were no persons admitted to the compound all day, excepting yourself and the Stricklands. All compound staff were already on the grounds, including cooks and house-staff. A routine afternoon, sir."

DeMolay noticed the sergeant's calm demeanor. "Very well, sergeant. Your assessment of the incident?"

York looked the General right in the eye. "Sir, in my opinion, we have an infiltrator on the grounds. One who is para-military trained. I doubt it is one of the house-staff."

DeMolay peered grimly at the Security Team. "So, what you are suggesting, Sergeant, is that it is one of your Team members?"

"It is a possibility, sir."

"Yes, indeed." DeMolay held up a sheet of paper. I have here a list of who all of you are, and where you are from. I am going to give the perpetrator one chance, and one chance only, to come forward and confess his crime. It will go much easier for you if you do. Other wise........well, you know how I dealt with that filthy rebel out at Long Knives."

He was referring to the beating-death of Prince Krassner just a week ago. They did indeed know to what he was referring.

"Well? I haven't got all day. Do I have to question each of you...privately?"

From far down the line of soldiers, he heard, "You filthy pig! You WOULD torture your own people to get to me, wouldn't you?" All eyes turned to the speaker, a short man, medium build, with a scarred face, a veteran of many a battle.

DeMolay strolled down the line, stood eye-to-eye with the man. "Your name, soldier?"

"Korlaan, Thomas, Sarasian HomeGuard, ID 663087, sir."

"Ah, from the Duchy of Sarasai. Never thought it'd be one of you. Disarm him."

Korlaan was roughly grabbed from behind and stripped of his weapons and his wrists bound behind him. "Tell me, Private, whatever compelled you to do such a thing? Did you need money? Was it enough to die for?" DeMolay stood in front of the man, arms folded, waiting for an answer.

Korlaan said, "Money had nothing to do with it, you swine. Yes, I am a Sarasaian citizen, but my family are of an old, noble family of Four Eagles. I am second in line to the Barony of Gzestockia, a large land-tract in Four Eagles. You killed my cousin, the Prince."

"And so you took it upon yourself to avenge your cousin, hmmm?" DeMolay tapped his commpin and asked, "You have been listening, General Strickland?"

"That I have, General. I have one question, Korlaan. What did you hope to gain? Even if you had killed me, your family background would have been found out and your entire family would have been executed, your ancestral lands assimilated. There was no gain in my assassination for you."

Korlaan grinned mirthlessly. "You and your Xeraphian pigs have no idea as to the unrest in your precious Empire. There are thousands of citizens in all of your Imperial nations who have banded together to fight you swine. We are tired of your uppity ways. Alaric would NEVER have allowed the bullshit happening in the Empire. That idiot son of his has been targeted. We will get him sooner or later and it will plunge this piece-of-shit Empire into chaos. That is our goal. Strickland was just a practice run."

DeMolay asked, "General?"

Silence for a second. "Kill him."

In response, DeMolay drew his battle-knife, swung it upwards in a low arc, and plunged it into Korlaan's face, just below the chin. The blade cut through bone and sinew, up into his brain and out through the top of his head. Korlaan twitched and squirmed in horrifying pain, blood, brains and teeth spewing from the huge gash in his face. At length, the man stopped moving. The soldiers holding him up let him go. He fell into the bloody dust of the courtyard, a slowly-spreading pool of blood flowing into a gutter.

"String him up next to that rotting corpse of the former Prince." Turning to an aide, he said, "Inform Amra. Get some troops into Sarasai in anticipation of a purge."

"Aye sir."

The King was haggard, having not slept in three days. He was frantically directing a series of small sorties against the Empire of Xeraph in three of it's Imperial nations. He'd found out the hard way that several of those nations were nearly impossible to enter via conventional means.

The Kingdom of Xeraph itself was impenetrable. Hundreds of thousands of border guards, human and AI, patrolled the land-borders 24/7/365. Air and sea access was just as restricted. Any aircraft coming within 100 miles of Xeraphian airspace unannounced was shot out of the sky. The magnetic net below the seas and oceans of Xeraph allowed no foreign movement. Added to the whole scenario were the constant-scanning of the Orbital Battle Platforms.

The Grey Phoenix, Black Shadows, and the Priory of Aeternu were similarly protected. The other seven nations of the Empire were more-or-less open borders, but security was always present in one form or another.

King Krassner of Four Eagles was in hiding, secluded in the mountains north of Turnae in the southern portion of the region. He knew it would just be a matter of time before he was located, but he was determined to do as much damage to Xeraph as he could.

He received the message that the assassination attempt on General Strickland had failed and his man inside the security force had been executed. There were two other reports, however, that indicated that he had given the Empire a little bit of a black eye.

His tribal chiefs had attacked several troop-trains loaded with Imperial Marines and supplies in Auralinia and three ammo depots were destroyed in Black Katanas. The tribal guerillas had gotten in and out, no casualties.

"My King, you must get some rest. There is a lull in the attacks. Nothing is going to happen for at least two days. You need sleep." This from his wife of forty-three years, Matilda. He looked at her, bleary-eyed. "Your'e right, my dear. Maybe just a few hours. No more, you understand? I must be available to my troops."

He laid down to sleep, but his restless mind dreamt of freedom from Xeraph. He sat up after less than an hour, a plan formulated. He yelled out of his tent, "Sergeant! Call Generals Jordan and Franklin. NOW!"

Major Stickell and Captain Laban of the Royal Katanan Marine detachment charged with the oversite of the ammunition depot in the border town of Remuel looked over the scene of destruction with mounting anger. "How the hell could barbarians with barely servicable weapons accomplish this, Captain? I want answers, and I want them NOW!"

Captain Laban turned to face Stickell. "Sir, I am at present assessing all info. As soon as I have an overall picture of the situation, I'll get it right to you."

"You got two hours, Captain. Two hours."

Several other relatively minor attacks had been reported throughout the Empire, most notably in the northeast territories. Which was a bit puzzling at first due to it's extreme proximity from Four Eagles. When it was discovered that the Duchy of Sarasai had a disproportionate amount of Four Eagle expatriots living there, it all came together.

Units of the Vhammpyric 4th Legion were deployed to the borders of Sarasai to prevent any further border-crossing by rebel elements, although as efficient as the vampires were, there WERE a few rebels that managed to slip through into Sarasai. Those that tried to get out, however, were quickly captured and roasted alive by the ever-hungry Vhammpyric Warriors.

_______________________________________________________________
(Along the far-eastern border of Sarasai and Terra Civitas, in the Mountains of the Moon):

Captain Fletch had been uneasy all day. He and his patrol had been moving about the mountain passes for three weeks, seeking any sign that the Eagle-Sarasan rebels were using them as a covert means of transporting weapons. Fletch had a hard time understanding why rebels from a far-southern nation would come all the way up here to cause trouble. The only thing here were a few egghead scientists in Terra Civitas and a leaderless Duchy, largely agricultural in nature. He was thinking on these things as he was grabbed from behind, a razor-sharp blade pulled against his throat ending any further thought....

The assault on the Xeraphian troops was complete. It had been silent, and all were dead, their throats slit, the bodies hidden from view. The pass in the mountains that they had been guarding was now wide open, giving the tribal warriors a direct path to the remote villages of Terra Civitas. They knew that the scientific labs of the Terrans were lightly guarded because Xeraph was using orbiting surveillance units to keep tabs on the scientists. Any attack by weapon-wielding intruders would be picked up immediately by the OBPs.

But, the Xeraphians were not counting on the ancient tribal methods of infiltration by assimilation into the countryside. In just a few days, seventy-four tribesmen would be bursting through the parameters of six different laboratories and slaying all inside, setting timed explosives to secret and vital experiments that were so hush-hush, none but the very highest of Xeraphian authorities knew of them.


Rothgar looked around the campsite. Pointing to a particular group, he said, "No more fires from this point on. We are now in full stealth mode. I don't even want the fuckin' squirrels to know we're here. Put it out."

As the tribesmen obeyed, Rothgar thought about his homeland, now far away. They had traveled far in just two weeks, and were now poised to do some serious damage to the Imperial pigs of Xeraph. As he and his men were attacking the labs, two thousand miles to the south another tribal force would be attacking those Tarlag do-gooders escorting the refugees away from Turnae. Rothgar thought, 'That'll teach 'em to stick their nose in where it don't belong.'

"OK, men. Settle down. We have a very busy 48 hours ahead of us. Get some sleep. It'll be the last for awhile."

The rag-tag rescue mission headed up by the Tarlag forces plodded along towards the coast where, hopefully, transport would be waiting to take these women and children to safety. It was a hot day, tempers were flaring as refugees yelled for food and water that did not exist. They didn't know that in less than a minute, water would be the least of their worries.


From atop a ridge just 60 yards away, a savage-looking warrior peered into a pair of binoculars, watching the column move slowly westward. After a minute, he dropped the binocs, turned, and waved an arm in a circular motion.

In less than fifteen seconds, explosions erupted along the line of refugees killing dozens upon impact. The first volley caught the Tarlag soldiers by surprise, the second volley, not as surprising as the first. They quickly dug in and formed a defensive line even as the explosions continued. Then they saw what they were up against.

At least two hundred screaming berserker tribal warriors came running at top speed towards them, automatic weapons in one hand, swords, knives, and battle-axes in the other. They had covered about half the distance to the column when the Tarlagians opened up......

(Jeez, There ya Happy Now... Go Change ur Depends old man...)

Meanwhile deep behind 4 Eagles Frontlines

The piercing wail of missile alarms preceded the incoming hail of high-explosive munitions by only a fraction of a second. As the pounding blasts tore even more precious Starshield armor away from his 60-ton Grand Dragon Main Battle tank, The Battletank’s most precious component, Legatus John Sterling felt himself thrown to one side, straining the limits of his five-point harness.
Wincing as the pain from a bruised rib lanced through him, he clenched his controls tighter, fighting the inertia of his own motion & the force of almost two dozen warhead explosions. He forced the ’Tank to turn left, presenting fresher armor - & the muzzle of a Thor’s Hammer 2 particle cannon—to his tormentor. The crosshairs flashed gold & a single pull of his trigger spat a stream of man-made lightning into the lighter 4 Eagles Cobra Assault Vehicle, spearing the ’CAV through the turret. Sterling allowed himself a grim smile as fire & smoke poured from the wound. The Cobra floundered back a bit, its turret impaired by a partially fused gyro.
But the mercenary’s smile died as he caught sight of a brilliant flash far to his left. He turned in time to see the flaming wreckage of one of his own Grand Dragon' MBTs crashing into a building, the victim of two 4 Eagles heavy tanks.
“Christ Almighty!”
an outraged voice rang out, one Sterling immediately recognized as that of Tribune Jonas Deoring.
“Command, Support! I lost Heller! Repeat, Heller is down! No ejection! They’re murdering us, here!”
Damn it! Sterling cursed inwardly. It wasn’t supposed to be like this! It was supposed to be a simple objective raid, a smash-and-run, a parting shot between nobles who now had to accept that the 4 Feathers Annexation was over. Nobody mentioned that the Eagles would have fortified the position with almost a full mixed battalion of advanced tech. That'll play merry hell in Command as they race about to identify the suppliers, And now, to make matters worse, his subordinates were starting to panic.
Not good for a first mission. Not good at all. Sterling dialed Deoring’s channel even as he worked his Grand Dragon into a backward roll, sending another bolt from his PPC after the 4 Eagles Cobra & cursing as the shot missed high. This time, the Cobra’s reply came with support from a nearby Falconer Light Tank. Another brace of missiles rocked his machine, & the jarring crash of a gauss rifle slug, shattering armor just above its left tread, nearly crippling it.
“Support, this is Command,”
he barked, grinding his teeth as he fought the Dragon’s temptation to side shift.
“Close ranks & fall back by three hundred. Keep calm, or so help me, I’ll shoot you myself!”
Switching to the tactical command frequency without waiting for Deoring’s reply, Sterling spared only a second to take stock of the situation. In all, a full company of mostly fresh 4 Eagles Armor—counting the wounded Cobra—still remained in play,
forming a wall of metal that his abbreviated & badly mauled company simply could not break. Somewhere beyond them, scattered on the hillside in unrecoverable ruins, lay two of his Corsair fighters, shot down by a resistance far more determined than he had anticipated. Just beyond that, the objective—a series of low buildings supposedly housing supplies of “limited military value”—remained untouched, protected by a second company of Armor.
Sterling’s men were already down by three machines, & they’d never even come close.
Too much, he decided.
“Attention all Intellectuals, this is the Brain,”
he snapped.
“Drop Ship ETA is—”
he glanced at the chronometer on his HUD
“—three zero minutes & counting. Begin fallback! I say again: Mission is a bust. Alpha Squad, begin fallback to dust-off site immediately! Command & Support will cover!”
“Retreat!?”
came another voice, respectful yet challenging at the same time.
“Sir, you cannot—!” “That’s affirmative, Command Two!”
Sterling shot back; Joseph Martin made an excellent exec, but he’d yet to shake
that sense of invulnerability that seemed to infect all young Armor Jockey's.
“You know the score as well as I.”
The 4 Eagles Falconer, moved to the fore, opened up with its Main Gun, which tore into Sterling’s Grand Dragon with enough force to shatter or liquefy over a ton & a half of armor. Even as he fought the controls, Sterling could feel the cockpit temperature rising. Red panic lights on his command panel told the full story. Engine breach!
Damn it! “I have him!”
Martin announced, lighting the sky with crimson & azure beams of coherent light & a spread of missiles from his Grand Dragon’s missile launcher.
All of Martin’s weapons found the 4 Eagles Resistance machine, burning & blasting away armor weakened earlier in the fight, but Sterling was not sure if a laser or a missile eventually struck the Falconer’s gauss rifle. The Eagle Tank flipped backward under the explosion as ruptured capacitors left its entire right side a mangled mess, then crashed to the ground.
“Command One, are you alright?”
“Affirmative, Command Two,”
Sterling replied, watching his heat scale gradually crawl back into the yellow band.
“Continue withdrawal. Mission is a bust.”
This time, the reluctance in Martin’s voice was much less noticeable.
“Copy, Command One. Fall back; I will cover.”
As Martin’s voice relayed the withdrawal orders on the tactical channel, Sterling nodded—more to himself than his exec— & turned his Grand Dragon back toward landing zone, and & the inbound Drop Ship still invisible even to his Tank’s sensors. This mission was over, for better or worse. Now would come the time to pay the dues & look for more work, even as the foolishness of the Annexation resistance sputtered out. Making repairs & burying the dead—those were always hardest.

"Holy Shit, all units we are under attack. Deploy troops and set up a firing line between them and the buses. All armored units begin rapid fire on incoming troops." Yelled Captain Mills into his com unit.

With the orders given the 6 serviving APCs dismounted their 9 troopers each. Each man took cover behind their CV-90s and opened up on the wild attackers with disciplined 3 round bursts from their G-36/6.5 assault rifles. While the APCs fired on the advancing tribesmen with their 40mm automatic cannon. The two surviving light tanks opened up with 120mm air burst shells in an attempt to stem the human wave heading in their direction.

"Mother Goose One to Owl One we are under attack have put escorts between attackers and convoy. Send help. These bastards are trying to kill their own people. Repeat send help any allied units send help!"

OOC: I'm rather sick and don't feel like reading all this, so can I get a basic recap of what's happened thus far so I can respond properly? Thanks :)

OOC: I'm rather sick and don't feel like reading all this, so can I get a basic recap of what's happened thus far so I can respond properly? Thanks :)

OOC: hey,ViZ long time...anyway, here's what's happening: I annexed a large, unincorporated area in the far southern part of my region, they rebelled, I kicked a little ass, they kicked back, now I have a full-blown rebellion happening. It's going to get a lot bigger before it gets smaller. As of right now, the rebels are mostly comprised of guerilla-type action, hit-and-run type stuff, and from what little Four Eagles is telling me, there's gonna be a couple of big rebel hits soon and a bit of a surprise twist with another nation joining the rebels. This is sort of bouncing back and forth between here and another thread called "Xeraph Annexes Four Eagles"... This is MT, conventional numbers, no dog-piling.....hope ya feel better...

By the time Amra and Jada appeared out of the TransBeam, the Tarlagians were beginning to get the situation under control. But there was still a ways to go.

Jada was now garbed in the traditional Xeraphian battle-harness, fully armed with twin Glock 9mm sidearms, battle knives, Katana, and AK47aIII rifle. As she and Amra ran towards the command post, they took on some heavy fire from a small group of rebel tribesmen.

Diving into a ditch, the two returned fire, noting with a grim pleasure that three of the rebels would no longer be a threat to anybody.

The tribesmen were by now completely berserk, taking hit after hit, but still coming on with a ferocity that Amra admired, even as he was trying to kill them. "Jada, cover me, I'm going to circle to the left and join up with that little group of Tarlag holdouts." She nodded, and Amra juped up, racing towards the small know of soldiers who were taking heavy fire. One of the rebels, a huge, shrieking warrior, had managed to reach the Tarlagians and had to be cut down by a concentrated burst of fire from three soldiers. But not before he had run one soldier through with a broadsword and slashed another.

Amra could hear the report of the AK behind him, see the bullets slamming into the enemy. He dove behind the burned-out jeep the Tarlag unit was using for cover and opened fire on the remaining rebels. In an all-out effort, the Tarlagians and Amra finished off the attackers, but not without a fierce fight.

The fight along the right flank, where Amra was, seemed to be contained, so he signaled to the young Duchess to hurry over to his position. Even as she sped towards him, a rebel fired from a hidden position, nearly hitting her. The small unit returned fire, and the rebel position fell silent.

With her now next to him, he said, "Well, m'lady, this is how things go in Xeraph. One minute sipping tea in the garden, the next getting shot at in a fire-fight. Although I think that there's going to be hell to pay from your chaperone whe she catches up with us, eh?"

Official Communique to the Xeraph Government

Though we do not agree with your government's invasion and annexation of The Four Eagles, that is no excuse for the conduct of those individuals in what they tried to do to you and your family, as such you have our nation's deepest sympathies for you and your family and we will continue to keep you and your family in our thoughts and prayers. We can only hope that those responsible for this hideous act are brought to justice for what they have done.

Sincerely, King Winston I and Chancellor Muller

Jada looked at Amra for a moment then responded "I usually do this from the comfort of a command carrier not up close and personal."

As she was saying this a small movement caught her eye. In a knot of fallen attackers about 100 feet away, she saw an old FAL rifle being raised by one of the much bloodied tribesmen. Seeing the mans target was Amra she did the only thing she could think of, Jada reached behind her and drew the FN-5.7 she was using as a back up. Drawing a bead on the man she fired three rounds quickly into the the exposed upper body of the tribesman. Two of the bullets struck home and the FAL fell back to the ground.

Shaking she almost dropped her pistol. "Mad Men! Attacking an Armored formation with rifles and swords just to get at a few civilians, their own people no less."

She looked over the destruction the first series of bombs and rifle fire had caused to the unarmored civilian vehicles. She took in the cries for help from the wounded and the cries of pain and fear from the dying. She seemed lost in it all for just a moment then her years of instruction from her teachers took over.

She looked around for a CV-90 with a command pennant flying from an aerial. She saw it flying from one of the destroyed APCs. One that had been taken out by the second wave of bombs.

Seeing that the company commander was either dead or wounded she knew some one had to take charge. Jada yelled at the top of her lungs. "Senior Sergent front and center."

Amra was impressed with the Duchess. She fought well, she commanded well, and didn't back down when threatened.

As the sergeant hurried over to Jada, he glanced around at the remnants of the battle. He could understand the tribesmen fighting against almost insurmountable odds. Hell, his father did that very thing for the first years of the Empire. What he had trouble with is....why? These people had no stake in Krassner's kingdom. They were a fiercely independant bunch, not much taken to frivolity or comfort.

He tapped his commpin. "Jhane, see if you can get some info about these mountain tribesmen we're fighting. Something just 'aint adding up." Jhane was his personal, executive secretary. It was amusing that Alaric's secretary was similarly named. But THAT Jhane was long dead and gone. "OK, Amra. I'll get back to you in a day or so, OK?" "Yes, that's fine. Amra out."

Jada had issued her orders and then she said, "I must go and help with those who are wounded. It's part of my training. Can we meet up later, maybe somewhere a little less chaotic?"

"Sounds good to me, m'lady. Lemme know when and I'll beam us outta here."

Official Communique

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b168/Jarridia/TexasFlag-1.jpg


The Pure Democracy of Jarridia

Prince Amra,

It has come to my attention that there is currently unrest within the nation of Xeraph. Our two nations have forged an everlasting peace and alliance since the days of Emperor Alaric and President Branam. It is with this allegiance that any unrest within your empire becomes a concern to me.

Jarridia is ready, and willing, to aid you in restoring order. Whether that be through financial, humanitarian, weaponry and supplies, or military aid. Though we are monitoring a few situations on the home front here, we are able to provide you with the assistance that you need.

Let me know how you would like us to proceed.

Sincerely

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b168/Jarridia/Sig.jpg
President

The three female Paladins were Transbeamed near the rear of the convoy. Seeing the fighting had died down Lady Moonshadow now dressed in old army greens with a old green army coat looked at her two companions.

"Malvina look to the Duchess this has been her first taste of combat and I don't want it to be her last. Jessa get on the comm. and see to getting these people medical attention and some food. While your at it get the RCT commander to send some more troops to get these people to the coast."

Malvina nodded her head and asked as she started moving towards the front of the convoy. " Leenara what will you be doing?"

"Borrowing a car so I can ask some questions."

SOME TIME LATER

Two of the Mountain Tribesmen moved along a small ridge. They kept under cover of the trees in case the Foreign do gooders had any aircraft in the area. The smaller of the two men stopped and looked at the rutted dirt road that was below the ridge line. There sat a battered VW Rabbit that was stuck in the middle of a small stream crossing and the driver was trying to use the jack to get moving again. The smaller man raised his AK-47 to shoot the driver when the second man stopped him.

"He is not worth the bullet. We take him with swords then we no longer have to walk."

Both men quietly worked their way down to the car and driver. As soon as the smaller of the two got to the edge of the stream he drew his blade and charged followed closely by his companion. The first man got within four feet of the driver when she suddenly turned and fired a long burst from an old Sten SMG. Catching the man in the mid section. She let the stream of bullets travel up the mans chest until the charging man ran into her knocking her SMG to the side.
The second attacker seeing this was just an old woman who in his mind had just gotten lucky swung his sword in an overhand swing meant to carve the woman in two. The woman managed to get her SMG up in time to parry the blow.

"Old Bitch you will pay for that!"

Backing out of the stream and drawing her own blade Leenara responded.

"Pay for taking out vermin like you, hardly. I think you and your people will pay for attacking helpless women and children."

The man lunged attempting to take the old fool's head. She easily parried the blow and began answering back with cuts and thrusts of her own.
The mans overconfidence soon turned to concern if not down right fear as this supposed old woman began beating him back with blows that any of his brethren would have a hard time delving.

"Witch! Who are you?"

Ducking under the mans guard Leenara slashed deeply into the back of the mans legs dropping him the the ground.

"I am the person you are going to tell everything you know about the attack to."

Official Communique

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b168/Jarridia/TexasFlag-1.jpg


The Pure Democracy of Jarridia

Prince Amra,

It has come to my attention that there is currently unrest within the nation of Xeraph. Our two nations have forged an everlasting peace and alliance since the days of Emperor Alaric and President Branam. It is with this allegiance that any unrest within your empire becomes a concern to me.

Jarridia is ready, and willing, to aid you in restoring order. Whether that be through financial, humanitarian, weaponry and supplies, or military aid. Though we are monitoring a few situations on the home front here, we are able to provide you with the assistance that you need.

Let me know how you would like us to proceed.

Sincerely

http://i19.photobucket.com/albums/b168/Jarridia/Sig.jpg
President




President Thoreson,

Thank you for your note of concern and support. I am well aware of the strong ties Jarridia has with Xeraph. My father and your President Branham enjoyed many tough times together.

As of right now, I have information that one of my Imperial nations in the north of the region are secretly aiding the rebels of Long Knives and Four Eagles. The Duchy of Sarasai is located in the extreme north of the Empire, bordering Aeternu to the west, Terra Civitas to the east, and the Kingdom of Xeraph to the south. Terra Civitas is a sparsely populated nation consisting mostly of scientists and researchers. What they are experimenting on is of the highest secrecy, which I would be glad to speak personally to you about in the near future.

I believe the rebels have traveled far north of their usual haunts in an effort to subvert and attack the scientists there. This happened once before in the monumental war with the Pagan Borderlands where rogue vampyr units killed and destroyed a large portion of two of the scientific compounds.

I could use your help in the following area: if you could deploy a half-dozen missile-cruisers and a carrier off the coast of Sarasai with a troop ship ready to beach 500 of your marines, I would appreciate it. If I send forces into the area, the enemy will know something is seriously up. With your forces twenty miles offshore, their suspicions will undoubtedly be slim to none. Your commanders will have complete autonomy in scheduling air patrols and recon manuvers. The only thing I ask them to do is wait for either my command or those of my commanders as to if-and-when you land your ground troops. Of course, if your people are fired upon, fire back with all you have.

I don't think your ground forces would have to wait more than a few days to disembark onto the Sarasain shoreline. With you on the beach, we will have the traitors and their enemy rebels surrounded.

Again, thanks for the aid and I hope to meet you in person in the near future.

regards,

Amra Tan'it

With MoonShadow issuing orders and then disappearing into the interior of the land, the evacuation now continued. The Tarlagians sufferd some losses, but the rebels were all but annihilated. Three prisoners had been taken. Two were badly wounded and probably would not survive the night. The third had actually been captured as he was trying to escape certain death. He was dragged from under the bleeding corpse of one of his comrades and immediately began babbling in the gutteral tongue of the mountain tribes.

Amra walked over to him, casually toying with his battle knife. Jada followed, relieved to see her 'chaperones' now on site. The rebel cowered under he gaze of Amra and quickly fell to his knees, apparently begging for his life.

Amra glanced at Jada, throwing her a grin, and then in a completely unexpected action, kicked the rebel full-force in his throat, sending the man sprawling, choking in a most violent manner.

Not taking his eyes off of the man, he held out his hand, snapping is fingers. One of the guards handed Amra his war hammer, and with blinding speed, Amra brought it rapidly, repeatedly, and with great force upon the man's forearm, breaking it in several places with a sickening breaking of the man's bones.

The man screamed and received another kick, this time to his chest. The rebel fell onto his back and within a second Amra was kneeling next to him, swinging the hammer with a force that broke the man's ribs, one by one, until the man was so hoarse from screaming that all he had left was a horrible, bubbling grunt.

As the rebel writhed in pain, Amra provided the man with one more assault that he would never forget. With two great swings of the hammer, Amra broke both of the man's kneecaps, the bones sticking out at an extreme angle. The man had had all he could take, no sound now uttering from his blood-filled mouth.

Amra stood, breathing heavily. He pointed at the tribeman with the bloody hammer. "This is how I'm sending you back to your master. This is what I will do to him when I catch up to him. If ever you are again able to speak, you are to tell him that I am coming after him.......and all Hell is coming with me." He gestured to the guards to remove him.

He turned to see Jada with a curious look on her face. Something between a mild distaste and fascination. "Well, my dear, do you think that the rebel King will understand my message?"

Jada looked at Amra for a second before she answered. "Personality we need to find this bastard and take him out before his people kill again. If we let this go on to long he will gather supporters."

A sound of a labored VW engine could be heard approaching. Moving up the side of the road could be seen the now even more debris covered and battered Rabbit with a uncouncse mountain tribesmen tied and spread eagle on the hood. Pulling up in front of Amra Lady Moonshadow stopped the engine and got out. Noticing the man was out of it she commented "I guess he did not like my driving."

Looking over Amra's prisoner she turned to Amra and asked " I hope you got more out of this one. The only thing I got from my passenger while we took our little drive back here was that his people were offered land by the local Nobles to pull off these attacks. Also the Nobles are not happy about the deal. Someone higher up made the offer but he does not know who."

Walking back to the rear hatch of the car she opened it revealing a dead tribesmen and his gear. "This dead one told me all most as much. My friend on the hood here was carrying an old AK he could of gotten from anywhere. The other man had a MP-53."

Jada picked up the weapon and looked at it. "So it is a MP-5 type weapon that uses the 5.56 mm round it is common a enough weapon?"

"Hardly child, look at the manufactures mark. Produced by H&K of Tarlag this type was used by our naval infantry and airborne units until just about 5 years ago. Someone has supplied these people with some of our weapons."

Jada looked at Amra for a second before she answered. "Personality we need to find this bastard and take him out before his people kill again. If we let this go on to long he will gather supporters."

A sound of a labored VW engine could be heard approaching. Moving up the side of the road could be seen the now even more debris covered and battered Rabbit with a uncouncse mountain tribesmen tied and spread eagle on the hood. Pulling up in front of Amra Lady Moonshadow stopped the engine and got out. Noticing the man was out of it she commented "I guess he did not like my driving."

Looking over Amra's prisoner she turned to Amra and asked " I hope you got more out of this one. The only thing I got from my passenger while we took our little drive back here was that his people were offered land by the local Nobles to pull off these attacks. Also the Nobles are not happy about the deal. Someone higher up made the offer but he does not know who."

Walking back to the rear hatch of the car she opened it revealing a dead tribesmen and his gear. "This dead one told me all most as much. My friend on the hood here was carrying an old AK he could of gotten from anywhere. The other man had a MP-53."

Jada picked up the weapon and looked at it. "So it is a MP-5 type weapon that uses the 5.56 mm round it is common a enough weapon?"

"Hardly child, look at the manufactures mark. Produced by H&K of Tarlag this type was used by our naval infantry and airborne units until just about 5 years ago. Someone has supplied these people with some of our weapons."




Amra picked the body of the dead tribesman out of the Rabbit's trunk and tossed it in a gully near the side of the road. Frowning, he looked at MoonShadow. "So your'e saying that not only do I have rebel operatives in Sarasai, but someone is supplying Tarlagian arms to the rebels both here in the south and up on the Civitas border." He fell silent, then tapped his commpin. "OBPIIa, keep an extra close eye on the villages and lab sites in Terra Civitas. I've just received info that they are in the area of the Moon Mountains, perhaps on Crossman's border, and may be planning an attack at random using stolen Tarlagian weapons."

Two hundred seventy seven miles above the north-eastern quadrant of MercLands, Orbiting Battle Platform IIA received Amra's transmission and re-set it's coordinates to better scan Terra Civitas.......

Paladin Jessa Stormhand walked up to lady Moonshadow "Thanks for giving me the heads up. I had our people go through the bodies and we go something. About half of the bastards were armed with an odd mix of weapons just what you would expect. However the other half had MP-53s SMGs and We also found 12 G-3 rifles with our markings. I am having them traced now."

Leenara looked worried for the moment then turned to Amra "I don't know who did this but I mean to find out. With your permission I would like to have more of our troops brought in to help put them down. Lets say a Regiment of Air Cav. and some of our special forces units. With them I should be able to bring these bastards down."

"Lady Moonshadow none of our Air Cav. units have been deployed over here yet. They will have no experience in working with the Empire." Remarked Jada.

Then perhaps we should have some one who knows that type of unit working close with Amra. I do believe Jada you are such a person."

Paladin Jessa Stormhand walked up to lady Moonshadow "Thanks for giving me the heads up. I had our people go through the bodies and we go something. About half of the bastards were armed with an odd mix of weapons just what you would expect. However the other half had MP-53s SMGs and We also found 12 G-3 rifles with our markings. I am having them traced now."

Leenara looked worried for the moment then turned to Amra "I don't know who did this but I mean to find out. With your permission I would like to have more of our troops brought in to help put them down. Lets say a Regiment of Air Cav. and some of our special forces units. With them I should be able to bring these bastards down."

"Lady Moonshadow none of our Air Cav. units have been deployed over here yet. They will have no experience in working with the Empire." Remarked Jada.

Then perhaps we should have some one who knows that type of unit working close with Amra. I do believe Jada you are such a person."


Amra came out of his reverie having weighed all points pro and con. "M'lady Leenara, by all means call in the AirCav. Keep 'em here in the south. I have an idea how we can end this fiasco but first we must get our asses to Terra Civitas and then get back here. I'm thinking you, me, Jada, and one of my Generals of the northern marches. Jarridia is covering the beaches up north so if we move fast, we can catch a certain King in the very act of treason. Thoughts?"

Leenara looked around for a moment then drew another clip of ammo for her ancient Sten gun. Replacing the now spent clip with a fresh one she responded to Amra. "Sounds like a good idea, any one who can order an attack like this deserves Paladins Justice."

Turning to the Young Duchess "Child are you up for this? Amra, Malvian, and Myself are more then able to handle what is to come."

Jada stood facing the Elder Paladin and the future Emporer of Xeraph. Seeming to chose her words she spoke. "Lady Moonshadow you and the others have been there to teach me what I should do since I was a young child. You have shown me that sometimes you have to step up and do what is needed to be done. You were the one to teach me that when the call to battle is sounded the leaders must be in the front leading. I take these lessons to heart now Paladin Moonshadow."

Almost if on cue a Sergent trots towards Jada and hands her a G-36 carbine and several clips of ammo for the weapon. Thanking the man she continued.

"We came here to take the measure of Amra and see what kind of man he is.
We had questions about his motives and the actions of his advisers. What we found is a man that with a little guidance from us and others can be an even greater leader then his Father. We found a man who can be a great friend to our people and to us. If you think for a moment that I will stay here while he goes and brings the Bastard who ordered this down then your lessons were wasted. I will go and fight so no more people have to suffer what these people have."

OFF THE COAST OF TERRA CIVITAS


The desial electric cargo sub Sen Taka cruised at para scope depth a few miles off of the beach. Captain Bavousett quickly raised the para scope for a look at the surrounding sea. "Mr. Ishito Bring us in to two klicks of the pickup point. we will make the final run in when we get the signal from the beach. I want to be on the surface for no more then ten, is that clear."

"Aye Sir, I don't like this trying to pick up some VIP right under Xeraphs noses. From the chatter we are picking up the area is swarming with their forces. I don't care if this old beast is a stealth sub we still can get caught."

"Orders are orders, we make the run and get this guy out no matter what. Besides once this guy is on board we get to go back to base and some down time. I am sure the Boss will have some lively young female company for us as a reward."

Trondar made the decision and turned to his men. "Alright, listen up. Today, in broad daylight, we're going to hit two of those villages. I want serious damage done. Kill everyone, burn every building to the ground. From what I understand, there are just a few security guards in each village. There are, of course, the battle-platforms perpetually scanning the entire country. I have confidence in all of you that you can get in and out of there before Xeraph, Tarlag, or anyone else can respond. Questions?"

A soldier stood. "Sir, what is the object of this attack? And why during the day? Wouldn't it be a more effective strike if done at night?"

"Good question, trooper. The object of these attacks is, at the King's orders, to simply terrorize the Xeraphians. They have no clue that we are here. They think we're all still way down south. After this strike, we go on a two-week binge of destruction. Anything and everything Xeraphian must be destroyed. And the reason we're attacking in daylight is very simple: they don't expect it. Surprise is a most efficient tactic. And instead of returning to these woods and forests where we've been hiding and planning, we're gonna continue westward toward the border of those White Monks. They don't have much more protection than these eggheads."

He looked around at his men. "OK, men. We're a long way from home, and we've some serious fighting to do. After this day, we're going to be hunted relentlessly. So keep alert. Shoot anything that isn't 4Eagle."

The 36 men broke into two 18-man squads, checking their weapons and equipment. They traveled light and quick. Trondar checked his chrono for a minute and then said, "Go!"

They filed to the edge of the forest and took off running at top speed for the lab-huts just 75 yards away...................

Hank sat back in his chair, gazing aimlessly out his office window. They had hit one dead-end after another, coming close once, but unable to hold the support fields surrounding the model. 'We'll just have to keep at it', he thought. Amra wanted results, and he wasn't as patient or understanding as his father had been.

He heard a knock at his door, and in stepped his wife Amelia. She was also his personal secretary. "Got a minute, honey?"

"For you, dear, I have two minutes."

She smiled and held out the manila folder marked "Trial 16, result: Neg." "We came close this time."

"Hmmm, yes. But not close enough, my dear. The poles collapsed and the fields imploded same as before. Just more slowly. There must be a way to extend those parameters..................."

He never got to finish his statement. A massive explosion tore through his office, incinerating him and Amelia. The last thing he saw was his wife being burned alive.

As Amra and the Paladins were readying themselves for the trip north to Terra Civitas, a messenger appeared. "M'lord. This just in from Terra."

Amra saw the look on the messenger's face and grabbed the note. He read it quickly, then again slowly, crumpling it as he finished. "Six villages have been attacked, all units burned to the ground, all personnel dead. Over 300 of my people dead. Most of the terrorists have gotten away. Theyv'e been identified as operatives of the Saraisan, 4Eagle, and Long Knive rebellion." He turned to Jada. "Please inform your people that the trip north is hereby canceled. We're heading to the mountains where Krassner is hiding. We're gonna find him and put an end to this."

Tapping his compin, he said simply, "Get me DinOfrio."


________________________________________________________________



Minutes later, a curious voice echoed through the room. "What does my Lord need of me?" Raspy, gutteral, full of menace, High General Risst DinOfrio of Vhammpyr awaited Amra's orders.

"General, I have a situation which requires your.....special.....abilities. First, I need you and your Warriors to intercept and destroy the rebels in Terra Civitas. I trust you've heard?

"I've heard, Lord."

"Good. Find 'em, kill 'em, bring me one or two captives, then surround the Saraisan border. No one in or out. No one."

"Consider it accomplished, Amra. Time frame?"

"Seventy-two hours, General. Then get your butt down here with a half-dozen men. It won't be easy getting to Krassner, but we'll figure it out. I have several elite soldiers of Tarlag here already. I've sent word to Mandalore Prime as well. Jarridia is off the coast of Sarasai with enough naval force to cover us up there. This rebellion ends this week."

"As you wish, M'lord." Along with DinOfrio's voice, the heavy, malevolent presence of the Vhammpyian General left the small room where Amra and Jada sat. Jada asked, "Vampyres, Amra? Are you sure they are necessary? We want to stop the rebels, not begin a reign of terror of our own. They do not stop until all the enemy are dead. Is genocide your plan?"

Amra turned to face her. "I want this rebellion squashed. I want Krassner made an example of...publically. I want any and all involved to be eradicated. They, their families, to the fourth generation. The rest sent to work-camps off-world. The Duchy of Sarasai will be completely purged of all rebel elements. And, m'lady, I would consider it a personal favor to me if you would take over the reins of government there, to rule as the first Duchess of the new Xeraphian regime. What say you?"

Jada thought for a moment for a time she looked over at lady Moonshadow for some type of response. All Jada got from her questioning look at the Paladin was a kind smile and a slight nod.

"I am surprised at this offer Amra I will have to clear it with my Father but I am sure he will support it."
Looking once more at Lady Moonshadow Jada noticed that she was now smiling back at the young woman with a look of approval. Gathering her thoughts she continued.

'Before I can take possession of the new Duchy I am afraid we are going to have to evict the current occupant. To do that I will need troops of my own to help in attack. Lady Moonshadow any suggestions?"

"The 7Th Air Cav. arrived in country about an hour ago. Seeing you are all ready attached to that unit they would make the perfect personal unit for you. I also have it on good authority that the Shadow Knights can be here soon."
Paladin Malvina Hazen while the conversation was going on was listening over her personal communications unit. All most as if on command she covered her mike and spoke.

"Master Asnable just reported in, that he is out side with a small unit of Shadow Knights as you ordered. Leenara how did you know that they would be needed?"

"I have to keep some mystery, don't I Malvina. Amra we should get going if we are to catch this bastard. With the attacks on Xeraph he will most likely go deep into hiding so we need to move fast."

"Agreed, M'lady Duchess." A small smile played at the corners of Amra's mouth at this last statement. "We'll leave immediately upon the arrival of DinOfrio and his Warriors. If I may suggest, have your Shadow Knights and the 7th AirCav meet up with the Vhammpyrian Legions along the borders of Sarasai."

He looked over at the commscreen. "Report, captain."

Captain Russ Zitskee studied the info for a second, then said, "M'lord, it seems your relatives want to get in on the action. Sethanis of Black Shadows, Vlad of The Grey Phoenix, and Ricala of Auralinia want to know where to send help."

Amra chuckled. "Old farts lookin' for a fight, eh? Very well, have 'em bring 30,000 troops each to the northern reaches of Four Eagles and Long Knives. That'll keep that treacherous fuck Krassner from slipping away."

"Aye sir. 90,000 troops it is. Armor? Air?"

"Hmmm, yes. Good thinking. Have a platoon of Behemoths guard the upper passages of the mountains. There's really only one way in and out that way, unless they want to do a Hannibal manuver. And have a squad of AirWolf HCGSs in the air 24/7. Make 'em Ricala's people."

"Aye, m'lord."

"Ladies........shall we?"

They all headed out to the mess hall to await the arrival of the Vampyr general and his killer legionnaires.................

Aboard the Sub S.S. Retribution

Airador Black entered the darkened room of the old missile sub. His master sat behind a desk in an over sized chair. With out a sound the chair turned towards Airador and the occupant spoke a single word "Report."

"Master, the Xeraphian forces are amassing on the borders of the rebel territories. Satellite intell reports about 90,000 troops on the northern borders of Four Eagles and Long Knives with the Vhammpyr moving towards Terra Civitas."

"What of the Tarlagian forces in the area?"

"The 34TH and 95TH RCTs are moveing refugees out of Four Eagles and from reports will link up with Amra's forces in the area with in 24 hours. I also have a report that the 7TH Air Cav. Regiment was seen near Sarasia."

"Have you pinpointed their assembly areas yet?"

"Of course Master for what good it will do. The rebels are hopelessly out matched and we can only do so much."

"How wrong you are Airador, We have control of a very powerful weapon which we will unleash on their troops. I will also target their orbital battle station over the rebel territories to show them our real power."

"What weapon? I know of no such weapon that can take out a battle station and ground troops short of a nuke."

"I have a back door control of project Shooting Star. Tarlag developed it under my direction as a weapon of last resort. 10,000 tons of lunar rock packed into special containers in an L-5 orbit. The containers are designed to survive reentry and impact within one klick of it's intended target. Our scientists predicted that the impact would be very spectacular."

"Can't Xeraph just detect and intercept them? They have the resources to do it."

"This is the beauty of the weapon the exterior of the containers of stealth coated. They also give off no power signatures. even if you destroy the containers you still have 10,000 tons of rock moving at hyper-sonic speeds to deal with. 10,000 tons of rock packed in a tight container or of loose rock will still destroy its target. The containers can only be detected when the stealth coating burns off in reentry and by then it is too late."

"When do we attack Master?"

"Now I have targeted their battle station and five of their major troop assembly areas in addition to the Xeraphain capital of Ravanii."

IN L-5 ORBIT

In a cluster twenty large containers orbited silent and dead. With out warning seven of the twenty broke formation and began their deadly mission. of destruction.

The group had barely settled down to a quick meal when a high-pitched whine was heard, followed by a fiery blue oval a the smell of brimstone. Out of the oval walked seven creatures that up until now only Amra had ever seen.

The Vhammpyric Warrior stood an average of seven-and-a-half-feet tall, around 350 pounds of rock-hard muscle encased in a well-worn battle harness festooned with trophies of previous battles. Severed fingers, ears, hands and other dried body parts of vanquished enemies hung from their belts next to their Sig Sauer .45s. Each also carried a personal weapon. Some ancient Damascus swords were seen, but the majority carried on their back a huge battle-axe, razor-sharp twin blades gleaming in the the brite lights.

Their skins were a shade of white ranging from a pale, sickly flesh to a mottled grey. Long, three-fingered hands bore sharp talons, arms covered with esoteric tattoos, much the same as Amra's. Their eyes were vertical red slits backed by a yellow corona. No nose...just a gash where a raspy breathing could be heard. The mouth full and fleshy, 2-inch fangs hanging over the lower lip.

Amra stood and greeted General DinOfrio, Lord High General of Vhammpyr, second only to Prince Teii, ancient ruler of all that was vampyr. "Welcome General! I take it that since your'e here, the rebels in Terra Civitas are no more?"

DinOfrio took stock of this young Xeraphian prince, liked what he saw, and said, "Correct, m'lord. There are over 45 of my people roasting them slowly over a low flame as we speak. All except the ones we ate on the spot." He glanced over at the Tarlagians. It seemed to him that the young one was turning a bit green.

"Excellent, General. May I introduce you to my friends and allies........" After all intros were accomplished, DinOfrio said, "Forgive the intrusion. Please continue with your meal. If you'll just point the way to your war room, we'll assess the situation and get ready to kill a King...."

The King was shivering. He was high in the northern mountains, feeling like a hunted dog. He knew that Amra was coming after him along with those Tarlag bitches and those accursed vampire warriors.

"Throw some more wood on that fire, dammit! It's fucking freezing in here."

The servants scurried to obey, although what warmth could be gotten in a cave at the top of a snow-covered mountain was a mystery to them.

An aide walked in. "Sire, in about 36 hours we'll be surrounded. We have to keep moving."

Krassner was in a foul mood. "Sons-a-bitches!" He looked around, then said, "No. No more running. I make my stand right here. We've got over 500 well-trained tribal warriors with us. Let 'em come."

"Sire, we have to go. We cannot stand against the vampires."

"There's only six of 'em. What's the problem?"

"The problem? The PROBLEM?" The aide threw down his sheaf of papers. "The fucking problem, your majesty, is that in less than two days, Amra, MoonShadow, and DinOfrio will sitting here discussing the failed 4Eagle rebellion while the vampires gnaw on our bones. THAT'S THE FUCKING PROBLEM!" He stood there, hands on hips, trembling in anger.

Krassner glared at the man, but in his heart , he knew the aide was right. The 500 tribesmen didn't have a chance.

"Very well. What about our secret friends and their "super weapon"?"

"Basically, majesty, we'll kill a shitload of the enemy, but it's too little, too late. Sarasai is surrounded. We're being hunted. And most of the Eagle chiefs are slinking away. They know a losing cause when they see one."

"OK, set up the snipers. See if they can't pick off a couple of the Tarlagians. Then let's get the hell out of here. We'll head due west."

Yess, your majesty."

OCC Four Eagles and Xeraph have sent you Tels. on the super weapon.







Lady Moonshadow and her companions were to say the least uncomfortable with the appearance of the Vhammpyr. Turning to the Duchess she placed her hand in a comforting mannor on the young woman's leg. "Child, do not let their appearance disturb you. They for what ever reason are loyal members of the empire. In fact during the Lords Rebellion one of them helped save your Mother when the Hospital she was at was going to be overrun in the closing stages of the battle. So you have nothing to fear from them."

" I know, but my God look at them."

"Child, Who gave you piggy back rides when you were a child?"

With a slightly surprised look on her face the Duchess answered "The Sheik, in fact he still does. Lady Moonshadow The Sheik is nothing like them. he and his people our our friends and protectors not some blood thirsty beasts like the Vhammpyr."

"Jada you have never seen a troll eat have you, some of them can make the Vhammpyr seem down right civilized. They serve the Empire as the Trolls help the Duchy."

Just as Leenara was about to continue her cell phone began to vibrate. Looking at the caller ID to see who was disturbing her meal she was surprised to see it was from Space Command. That was a branch of the military she never got a call from. Answering the phone she was quickly filled in on the situation. After a short and muted conversation she hung up the phone.

"Excuse me Amra we may have a problem. Tarlag Space command has just alerted me that seven space based weapons have gone rouge in the last 24 hours. These weapons were thought to be decommissioned and shot off into deep space but as we have now discovered this is not the case. Space Command can't pinpoint the targets or exact time of impact. They have estimated that six of the weapons may impact in the Mercenary Lands Region. The Seventh may be targeting an orbital object but they are not sure. The weapons are not responding to our over ride commands and our people are saying that this is no accident."

Abroad S.S. Retribution

Airador reentered the office to make his repot to his master.

"My Lord, impact of the weapons will be in one hour. I have received a report that the King is on a mountain being pursued by Vhammpyr Warriors. His support is fading and his cause seems lost. Should we call this operation a wash and pull out?"

With out even turning his chair to face Airador the man spoke. "No, We can still use the fool of a King. Dispatch several VTOLs with a few commando squads to pick up the King and his people. Have them use their old Tarlagian transponders and be sure the crews and commandos are dressed as Tarlagian troops. this should get them past the Xeraphian air defense and plant the seeds of doubt to Tarlags true intentions. Have them rescue the king right in front of witnesses, Amra if possible. The confusion the weapons impact will cause will help cover the Kings escape. have him brought to me so we can discuss his future."

"It shall be done master."

"M'lord, two situations have arisen."

Krassner looked at the man. "Well, out with it!"

"Sire, our allies in the north successfully attacked a number of the villages in Terra Civitas. They are presently being devoured by.....er...uh...vampyrs."

Krassner's eyes widened. "From Vhammpyr? Those poor men. To die in such a way."

"Yessir, and those very same vampyrs are on the way here with Amra, MoonShadow and a contingent of 90,000 units from various Imperial nations. Armor and air support are already in place not 200 miles from here. We're surrounded, Sire."

"Hmmf. What of our 'other friends', captain?"

They have launched several units, majesty. Many thousands will die, but to no avail. We cannot continue this rebellion. I'd suggest seeking terms with the Empire."

Krassner glared at the captain, and in a fit of rage drew his knife, hurled it end-over-end, and saw it buried in the man's forehead. "Seek terms, indeed. That pig Amra will pay for killing my son. I'll see to it myself, or die trying."

"Amra, we've located Krassner. He's heading due west with about twenty guards. Moving fast. Apparently not caring what kind of track he's leaving."

"Good. TransBeam the twelve of us to a point three miles ahead of him."

"Aye, sir. One other thing, m'lord. We've picked up a sub-orbital disturbance coming from the far side of the moon. Six, no seven, cylindrical objects with a trajectory impacting on the northern border of 4Eagles." He paused. "Right where there are going to be 90,000 Imperial troops."

"Any word from Ricala as to what they might be?"

"None, m'lord."

Amra thought for a moment. "Very well. Determine as closely as possible if there are living beings on board. If not, shoot them down."

The comm-chief didn't answer right away. "M'lord, OBP-aII has just taken a direct hit. One of the cylinders obliterated it."

Amra was a blur of motion. "All orbiting units, attention! OBP-aII is dead! Repeat. OBPaII has been taken out! All units within 7500 miles of the last known position of the OBP proceed to those coordinates. If you see any more of these objects, destrot them. Estimated time to Terran impact is approximately 55 minutes."

Turning to the comm-chief, he said, "Message to all Imperial commanders. Stop forward progression immediately. Stay where you are until further notice. If I tell you to MOVE, you'd better fuckin' MOVE! Amra out."

"Ready ladies? General? Let's get this sum-bitch and have done with this whole thing, eh?"

The Objects were moving very fast when the first laser blast hit them in their center. Two were destroyed, but the cargo inside kept accelerating toward the Imperial troops.

Amra's orders came a little too late. Many Imperial troopers were able to avoid the impact of the Objects, but when they exploded 12 miles above the surface of the North Eagle Mountains cubic tons of rock smashed into the soldier's positions.

Thousands died in just sixty seconds. Mashed into a bloody pulp, appendages broken, skulls broken open. In another minute, the assault was all over, the carnage appalling. Over 23,000 dead or injured, almost a quarter of the total force. Amra and MoonShadow were trembling in rage.

"M'lady, we're gonna track that bastard down, and I'm going to kill him on the spot with my own two hands."

An aide rushed up. "Amra, we have reports of a covert group aiding the 4Eagle rebels. They were behind this attack."

"Who are they?"

"Unknown, sire. They are behind a number of attacks all over the Empire. Could be the Saraisan nobles we've been unable to locate. Could be a second body of subversives who have it out for Xeraph."

Amra lowered his voice almost to a whisper. "I want the whole weight of my Empire thrown into finding these assholes. I don't care what it takes, I don't care how long it takes. Use all means at our disposal. I want 'em found, I want 'em brought to me, and I want 'em alive. Understand?"

"Yes, m'lord. Alive....."

Lady Moonshadow kept getting reports from Tarlag about what was happening. After a few moments of looking over the information that she had received from back home she went to Amra.
"I have some news about the help the rebels are receiving and I don't think you will like it one bit. First the Talagian arms that the Tribesmen are using due infact come from Tarlag. However most of the weapons were from missing stocks from the Lord's Rebellion. They were plundered from the Lord's Guard armories and even from the stockpiles of the People's Militia. None of those weapons we captured have been in our inventory for at least fifteen years.
What troubles me is that it is not all the arms and equipment that went missing at about that time. There was at least enough gear to outfit a full RCT and that was not all. Ten Submarines and a dozen surface ships went rouge at about that time. We have always assumed that the gear was destroyed in the fighting around New Port and the Naval Ships went pirate or mercenary. This assumption seems to be false."

Taking a deep breath she gave the rest of the report. "As for the space based weapons that attacked your troops I can give some good news. The one that was headed to the capital has been diverted to crash in the ocean about 500 miles off your coast. Space Command has managed to find the back door that they were using and shut it down. I can safely say that there will be no more attacks from space.
Space Command shut that system down just after the Rebellion but who ever did this had a back door and reactivated the system.."

Jada continued the report. "By the look of things Four Eagles is not doing this alone Someone out there has access to our to our space based weapons and all that stuff that went missing. I can only think of one organization that could of done all of this the now defunct Order of Intelligence. They were the only other group besides Space Command to have access to Project Shooting Star. They also backed the losing side in the Rebellion. Their people could of made off with those subs and ships. What We can't figure is that most of their leadership was killed during the fighting or afterwords during the purge."

Leenara turned to Jada. "Child we never found one of the bodies. Their leader, We let it leak out that he was killed in the last days of the fight but we never found the body. We all ways prayed that he had been killed. Knowing the slimy bastard he is the one doing all of this. It is his style and he is the only one with the intelligence to pull all fo this off."

"Who, My Lady?"

"Slayn of the Order"

Krassner was moving at a speed dangerous for these mountains, especially with the winter setting into the region.

"Your Majesty, we must slow down. The footing is treacherous. The horses are slipping on the ice."

"We have to make contact in a little over two hours. It will not set well with our 'Friend' if we are late." The King made as if to continue when an eerie voice whispered through the glade.

"No need to rush, your Majesty. I am here." An evil laugh followed, echoing all around.

Krassner paled, dismounted his horse, and turned to the source of the voice.

He saw the man, clad in an old hooded robe of the Order. Krassner gave a short nod of his head. "M'lord Slayn.............."

"You have done well Your Majesty. The pieces are now in place for Our, your final vengeance against Xeraph. Because of our actions over 20,000 of the empire's finest troops now lay dead or dieing. We however our not done this day in hurting our enemies. One more must die to avenge your poor dear Son."

The robed figure looked off in the distance for just a moment. He all most seemed to be seeing what would be happening next.

"Over the next hill is a small open valley, you and your people will go there. waiting are 3 VTOL aircraft in Tarlagian markings. Go to them and board, they will be your ring side seat for the Death of Amra"

With that statement he seemed to disappear in thin air.

Aboard S.S. Retribution

Stepping down from the small holographic projecting platform Slayn lowered his hood. "Was the projector detected?"

"No Master, one of the sniper teams planted it along the trail the King was using well before his party arrived. Should I have the projector removed?"

"No Airador,leave it in place I may wish to use it to taunt Amra and that old witch Moonshadow. The madder they get the more likely they will make a mistake. I trust the sniper teams are in place."

"Yes Master, I have placed four teams with .50 cal sniper rifles. in the hills surrounding the valley. Any one going in there will have their asses blown off."

"Good, Amra will arrive soon and we can begin."

The Xeraphian team TransBeamed to a point just one-quarter mile from Krassner's position. Two Vhammpyric Warriors took the lead spots ahead of the group, two others held the rear. General DinOfrio and the remaining Warriors stood guard over the Tarlagians and Amra.

"General, Lady MoonShadow, what do you think of this situation? We know Krassner isn't alone in his plottings. Someone is helping him, possibly this Slayn that you speak of. These mountains are full of areas perfect for a trap. I've no doubt he has inadvertantly led us here to be killed." He became aware of Jada. "And you, m'lady? Your thoughts?"

Jada looked at Amra, then spoke "Lady Moonshadow is much better versed in field operations then me." Looking towards the elder Paladin Jada waited for a response.

"Child I believe Amra asked you not me. Look around and remember your training."

"Fine, My Lady." Nealing to examine the hoof prints on the trail then examining the terrain around them Jada responded. "The King is moving fast. and not resting his horses. So he is either trying to kill them or he is meeting other transport. Now as for the ambush If I we him I would have mortars in the hills or snipers. They could take us out before we could fire a shot. Expect a trap Amra, we should of brought more men."

Lady Moonshadow smiled. "Very good Child, You forgot the possibility of men charging us from near by outcroppings but besides that very well done. As for an ambush I expect one if Slayn is involved. This king does not seem to have the brains for one, however I came prepared."
Clicking the transmit button on her communicator once she heard almost at once two bursts of static.

I took the liberty of having Master Asnable and a team of Shadow Knights placed in the surrounding hills. He will find the ambush.

"Your slipping Old Witch. Having to bring others in when only a few years ago you wold of gone in by yourself. Amra your dear departed Father Alric would not of needed Vhampyr guards, he would of braved the fire himself. I guess I will be doing Xeraph a service by killing you." Stated the hooded figure that appeared out of thin air at the side of the trail.

Not even turning around Leenara responded. "Go back under your rock Slayn and leave us to our work."

Jada's response was much different she turned and fired a three round burst from her G-36 straight into Slayn's chest.

Looking down at his chest Slayn just brushed some imaginary lint off of his robe where the bullets went through then continued. "Really girl is that a way to greet an old family friend. I thought this old Hag would of beaten better manners into you."

Amra held up his hand to Jada. "It's a hologram, m'lady. Save your bullets for the real deal."

To Slayn he pointed and said, "You be ready, Slayn. I am coming for you and Krassner. We beat you once before. You are nothing. Do you really think I would have come after you alone? Yes, my father would have. But that was the type of foolishness that eventually got him killed. I'd offer to fight you one-on-one, but you'd just have some cowardly trap set somewhere. No, Slayn, I'm coming after you with all the fire-power of the stars at my command." He tapped his commpin. "Ready, Ric?"

In reply, a great shadow filled the valley a few seconds later. Hovering about one mile above the tops of the mountains was one of the medium-powered units of the Xeraphian Space Fleet known as the Ca'nnaraa XII Battle Transport. The Space Fleet was the command of Amra's uncle, Ricala, former King of Auralinia. "Ready, Amra. Just give the word, and it'll all be over in about thirty seconds."

Amra turned to the holograph. "Well, Slayn, what do you have to say now? In just a few seconds, I'll have you and all of your troops TransBeamed into a holding tank where you can sit for the next hundred years or so to ponder your foolishness."

Amra could all most see the smile under Slayn's hood. Slowly clapping his hands in an seemingly mocking gesture Slayn answered. "Well done Amra, There may be hope for you yet. I think you have earned yourself a prize. Krassner is in the valley ahead of you, if you want the sniveling little man take him. I was done with him anyway. Myself on the other hand you can't have. I have places to be. I will save you the long winded speech about how we will meet again and all that. However let me leave you with something."

With that statement a small beer can sized projectile popped out of the ground and flew up about ten feet in the air and exploded. It was a Tarlagian Mark VII Bouncing Betty landmine.

MoonShadow had anticipated some kind of treachery from Slayn, and so with a 'snap; of her fingers, an instant before the explosion, a fine-mesh web of ion-saturated titanium was cast over the small group, negating the intended results of the explosion....to a certain extent.

All of the Xeraphian Team were knocked down by the concussive effect of the landmine. Amra, being the closest to it, was semi-conscious, a thin trickle of blood coming from his ears and nose.

Jada managed to push herself up in spite of the pain and saw that MoonShadow and the vampyrs were already up and functioning. Amra was still not moving, a low moan escaping from his lips.

She crawled over to him, and cupped his head in her hands. "Lay still, Amra. We'll get you some help in a minute."

MoonShadow tapped her commpin and said, "All units, we've taken casualties. Someone please get us to a medical facility STAT!"

The entire group disappeared in a flash of blue smoke, leaving the forest glade silent once more....

Slayn stepped off the Holo-Platform and lowered his hood. "Airador, order the VTOLs to take off now! While They are busy dealing with their wounded."

With out question Airador sent the signal that would launch the 3 Osprey on their return leg of their mission. only after the signal was sent did Airador speak. "Master, what of the sniper teams?"

"Order them to disperse and make their way out of the Mountains. I will arrange a pick up through our agents in the Tarlagain units that are in theater."

"Yes Master. If I may ask, what are you going to do with Krassner?"

"Order him brought to me. We will have much to discuss. Also order the Captain to move us to deeper waters Amra's people may try to track us and I would prefer to be some where else."

Amra was working out with his personal weapons when Jada walked in. "So, I see your'e feeling better?"

He smiled, setting down his spear. "About 95 percent. I'll be up to battle-strength in another day or so. Do you know if we've found Krassner?"

Another voice answered. "He must be shielded by Slayn. We can't get a bearing on him, so we can't beam him here." Amra turned to see his uncle, King Ricala of Auralinia, Lord High Director of the Xeraphian Space League.

"Hell, Ric, if YOU can't find him, 'aint no one gonna find him. What about his army?"

Ricala said, "What army? Nothing but a rag-tag bunch of rebels from Four Eagles and Long Knives and those tribal warriors. About a thousand total. A half-dozen tanks, two or three Migs, nothing in the water." He stood silent for a few seconds.

Amra said, "Out with it. What's on your mind?"

"Amra, why are we screwing around with these people. Granted, Slayn is no one to ignore, but he's not up to dealing with us. Why are we not just killing them all, burning their cities, and taking the territory?"

Amra paced for a minute, then said, "Ric, it's got to do with Ssyn. After Sybele drove that demon back from whence it came, I sent two teams into the city. One was never heard from again, and of the other, two soldiers came back, jibbering and mumbling about ghosts, demons, and the like. There's something in that city, something ancient, some archaic knowledge that I want. Hell, you've heard the tales of that place."

Ric smiled. "Of course I have. Everyone's heard about Ssyn. Teii remembers it from his youth, which is saying something given he's a hair over 12,000 years old. Maybe he can shed some light on what your'e looking for."

"Hmmmm, yes. But first we must capture Krassner. He's a link to the city." Tapping his commpin, Amra said, "All commanders, generals, etcetera, listen up. I want all efforts doubled in the capture of King Krassner of Four Eagles. I don't care who you have to kill. I don't care how many you have to kill. I don't care if you have to level every building in that country. I want him, and I want him alive. My advice is to go after the tribes first. Get 'em out of the way and the other rebels will quit. Just watch out for Slayn. Amra out."

Jada remarked, "A bit harsh, don't you think? All of that killing just for one man?"

He looked at her, saying, "Come, my dear. I'll give you a short lesson about the City of Ssyn........."

Squinting against the harsh noon sun, Lt. Hannon did a slow visual search of the wooded glade. His scouts had found evidence of recent human activity there, and he wanted to be extra sure that no one was waiting in ambush for his men. Using hand signals, he indicated that his team was to slowly and quietly circle the glade. The commandos were so quiet that the squirrels never heard them. Not until the enemy opened fire.

Two commandos went down, the rest opening up towards the direction of the enemy fire. Grenades were tossed, several enemy bodies were tossed through the air, then all was silent. Hannon yelled for the troops to converge on the attack site. "Lieutenant, you need to see this."

Hannon hurried over to see an old man, bedraggled, unkempt, wet with the morning's lite rain sitting with his arms wrapped around his knees, staring down at the littered forest floor. "And who might you be, old man? Speak up. I don't have all day!"

The man looked up and said, "So, your'e the one who will deliver me to Amra. Just as well. I can't run anymore." He stood up with some effort and saluted the lieutenant. "Krassner, General of His Majesty's Armies of Four Eagles. Also known as King Krassner. At your service."

Lt. Hero Musita entered the darkened room and saluted at the man seated behind the desk. the hooded figure turned to the young officer and spoke in a low voice. "You lost the king, how?"

Bowing the officer responded "Master, we had engine trouble and had to dump all cargo and passengers. I managed to bring my crew and bird home though."

"Why did you not throw one of the crew out instead, Krassner was the goal not bringing your worthless hide back. You have failed me Musita."

"I swear I will not fail you again, Master."

" No you will not." With that a bolt of energy shot from Slayns hands hitting the officer in the chest. The bolts flung the man out through the door into the passage way of the sub.

Pressing the intercom Slayn spoke into the speaker "Airador, have some one come and pick up the mess. Also have Musita's crew thrown out of the torpedo tubes ASAP."

Amra was working out with his personal weapons when Jada walked in. "So, I see your'e feeling better?"

He smiled, setting down his spear. "About 95 percent. I'll be up to battle-strength in another day or so. Do you know if we've found Krassner?"

Another voice answered. "He must be shielded by Slayn. We can't get a bearing on him, so we can't beam him here." Amra turned to see his uncle, King Ricala of Auralinia, Lord High Director of the Xeraphian Space League.

"Hell, Ric, if YOU can't find him, 'aint no one gonna find him. What about his army?"

Ricala said, "What army? Nothing but a rag-tag bunch of rebels from Four Eagles and Long Knives and those tribal warriors. About a thousand total. A half-dozen tanks, two or three Migs, nothing in the water." He stood silent for a few seconds.

Amra said, "Out with it. What's on your mind?"

"Amra, why are we screwing around with these people. Granted, Slayn is no one to ignore, but he's not up to dealing with us. Why are we not just killing them all, burning their cities, and taking the territory?"

Amra paced for a minute, then said, "Ric, it's got to do with Ssyn. After Sybele drove that demon back from whence it came, I sent two teams into the city. One was never heard from again, and of the other, two soldiers came back, jibbering and mumbling about ghosts, demons, and the like. There's something in that city, something ancient, some archaic knowledge that I want. Hell, you've heard the tales of that place."

Ric smiled. "Of course I have. Everyone's heard about Ssyn. Teii remembers it from his youth, which is saying something given he's a hair over 12,000 years old. Maybe he can shed some light on what your'e looking for."

"Hmmmm, yes. But first we must capture Krassner. He's a link to the city." Tapping his commpin, Amra said, "All commanders, generals, etcetera, listen up. I want all efforts doubled in the capture of King Krassner of Four Eagles. I don't care who you have to kill. I don't care how many you have to kill. I don't care if you have to level every building in that country. I want him, and I want him alive. My advice is to go after the tribes first. Get 'em out of the way and the other rebels will quit. Just watch out for Slayn. Amra out."

Jada remarked, "A bit harsh, don't you think? All of that killing just for one man?"

He looked at her, saying, "Come, my dear. I'll give you a short lesson about the City of Ssyn........."



Ancient texts relate that the rebel named Nimrod was a mighty builder of cities. He was, but he got the idea from the city of Ssyn. Ssyn was there before the recognized beginning of recorded time. Built by who? No one knows. Legend has it the it started out as a settlement wherein lived none other than Cain, son of Adam, who committed the first murder by killing his brother Abel.
Whatever it's origin, Ssyn's beginnings were shrouded in the mists of time. That it was an outpost of the Empire of Acheron is a fact. And that makes it at least 14,000 years old.
Acheron.....the evil empire that ruled most of the known world of Terra for hundreds of generations with an iron fist and blood. It's emperors were sorcerers, vampires, creatures evil and vicious beyond human imaginings.

The legend that Cain was it's original inhabitant goes on to tell the tale of the various rulers of the city, a city that outgrew it boundaries over the centuries. It became a city-state, then a province, then a country. When Acheron's armies marched through it's gates, three thousand years of history had descended upon Ssyn.
It is notable that one of the kings of the Xeraphian Empire was but a lad when he came into the city, about 11,000 years ago. Prince Teii, the Vampyr Prince of Vhammpyr, was only a thousand years old when he joined forces with the ancestors of Alaric Tan'it, the late Xeraphian Emperor. Teii and Tanith fought a mighty rebellion, and overthrew the rulers of Ssyn, which was the beginning of the end for the Empire of Acheron. The empire lasted for another 2,230 years, but in the end was reduced to ashes, it's kings and princes sent to Hell. Ssyn was once again a simple city.

Ssyn had always had a reputation for furnishing anyone with any desire that they might have, no matter how depraved or horrible. It was so to this day. Many horrors inhabited the underground world of Ssyn, but none had surfaced until recently. The upper world was a pit of vice, violence, and depravity. But even there, there was some semblance of order. When Alaric's troops entered the city, the Governor, High General Tsing Ghorz of the Black Katanas, purged the city of it's most vile and troublesome elements. An uneasy calm hangs over Ssyn right now.

Xeraph's interest in the city is one of a rather arcane quest. There are untold artifacts, ancient beyond belief, in the city. They tell of many things, and some of those things are fit for only the strongest to handle.

Amra looked at Jada. "And so you see, my dear, there is a lot to be gained by the systematic search for those things in Ssyn. I'll be going there myself, soon after my coronation. Perhaps you'd care to join me?"

Jada seemed to think for a moment before she answered. "I have had some lessons in dealing with the arcane, thanks to Lady Moonshadow. Such an expedition sounds interesting."
Leenara suddenly appeared at the young Duchess side. "Jada dear, Syssn is a dark and dangerous place not to be threaded into lightly. I am sure Amra and his people will do their utmost to protect you but I fear your Father will not allow it."
Jada looking indigent answered the elder paladin in a sharp voice. Paladin Moonshadow, I am an adult and can do what I want with out my Father's permission or even yours. If I wish to go I will and that is final."

Lady Moonshadw smiled for a moment before she answered. "Child that is your Mother speaking. She as you will stand her ground no matter what. That is why your Father and the people of Tarlag love you and your Mother. Go Child with my blessing but you will go with a body guard of my choosing and that is non nonnegotiable."

At that moment, a commotion down in the courtyard distracted the warriors. Amra looked over the edge of the parapet and saw his guards dragging a rag-tag bunch of men bound together by thick ropes around their neck. A pounding at the door brought the three downstairs and Amra himself opened the door. He quickly took in the view.....

.....seven men, obviously soldiers, bruised and apparently beaten, clothing torn, hands bound behind their backs. One man stood out because he fared a bit better than the others.

"What have we here, Captain?"

"M'lord, I have brought you the one who calls himself Krassner, king of Four Eagles, and what's left of his men."

Amra stared at the man. "Loose him, Captain. He may be a defeated foe, but he is still a King." Captain Heddy brandished his battle-knife, cut the king's bonds, and stood back, rifle at the ready.

Amra held up his hand. "At ease, Captain. He will do me no harm." Turning to Krassner, he said, "Majesty, may I introduce you to Lady Leeanra and Lady Jada, both of Tarlag. I understand they gave you a bit of a fight down south."

Krassner, bedraggled, ragged, and very tired nonetheless offered the ladies a short bow. "Hmmm, yes, indeed they did. I'd not thought to ever see such ferociousness in such lovely creatures. My compliments. Now, are we going to stand here in the sun all day, or are you going to kill me?"

Amra spoke. "Neither, King Krassner." He motioned to Jhane, his secretary, who had come up behind them. "Jhane, see to it that the king and his men are treated as noble prisoners of war. Feed them, clothe them, then let them rest." Looking at Krassner, he added, "Your Majesty, I am going to assume that you will conduct yourselves as gentlemen while you are my guests. Captain Heddy will not hesitate to kill you all if you do not. Agreed?"

Krassner took a moment to study Amra, then bowed his head and turned to follow the Captain. His men followed him in turn.

Amra said to Jada and Leenara, "You see, Ladies, sometimes you can catch flies more easily with honey than with violence. They will pose us no problem from here on out. Come, let me show you the wonders of my capitol.....Ravennii."

Leenara stood in front and raised her hand to stop Amra from leaving the area "Amra, I trust you are going to at least question Krassner? I just want to know two things Who ordered the attack on the refugee convoy and what is his relationship with Slayn?"

Jada looked to Lady Moonshadow and asked "He is now under Amra's protection I don't think we have the right to ask him that."

"Girl Do not interfere in Paladin's business. Their were people under our protection innocent women and children that someone ordered slaughtered. I just need a name if it was not Krassner then fine he can go off to his glided cell and nothing more will be said. He may also have information that will help track down Slayn. He will be a great danger to Amra and the sooner we can track the bastard down the better."

Leenara turned back to Amra and gave her famous "Look" the one that gave the recipient a cold chill "Amra, before we can go sight seeing we need to ask him those questions and get his answers. I understand he is under your protection but we Must know."
a

Amra called to the guards. "Hold! Bring the king back here for a minute." As Krassner shuffled back, Amra said, "Majesty, the Lady Paladin wants to know your involvement in the attack on the refugees coming out of Turnae. I'd suggest you be truthful. It'd go easier on you."

Krassner bowed to Leenara. "M'lady, I accept full responsibility for all the attacks and battles that my men conducted. They were under orders to kill and destroy all that was Xeraphian and no doubt they included you of Tarlag as well as other allies of Amra. I make no apologies for them. I myself did little actual fighting as I was in hiding in the mountains north of Four Eagles. That Xeraphian pig brutally killed my son as a representative of Tarlag looked on. I didn't then, and don't now, give a rat's ass about anything Xeraphian, Tarlagian, or Mandalorian. It was war, and sometimes innocents die. I realize that they were my own people who died as a result of the attack on the refugee train." He looked sharply at the Paladin. "As to Slayn, you know as much about him....it.... as I do. He came to me with an offer and I accepted. I know he is somehow connected with the one called Tsaphon, and that he has something to do with a rebellion in your land as well as contacts in a region named Mog Druthin." He bowed his head and turned a sickly shade of white as he said, "He has to do with the resurgence of the Empire of Acheron. Even as we speak, agents in the city of Ssyn are gathering to pull the newly formed nations of Mog Druthin together for a war with all allies of Xeraph as well as Xeraph itself." His voice lowered to a whisper. "This time, it will be more horrific than all that has come before. More will die than in the three previous wars, including those of Azulun, the Essenians, and the Black-and-Grey Imperium. Horror, death, torture, and sorcery unimaginable will run amok in the lands to the south of Mog Druthin."

He paused. "If you don't mind, I need to sleep. If you want, I'll talk to you later." He turned to go, led off by the guards.

From the coast to the foothills of the Dark Mountains, a dense fog permeated the land. High atop a craggy bluff sat Sybele, High Priestess of Set and the current ruler of Aeternu. Her throne sat outside her apartments, carved from a single block of basalt, black as night. As she sat silently peering into the mists below, she was disturbed in her spirit.

There was unrest in the lands across the waters. That land, Mog Druthin, had for centuries been a gathering place for all those who were rebels, malcontents, and the violent, war-like races that did not....could not...live in the more civilized nations.

Sybele had not left Aeternu but once in the two centuries since she arrived. She had presented herself to Alaric of Xeraph, and he, knowing her history and reputation, assigned her the nation of Aeternu which had been without a ruler for many years. She quietly assumed the leadership the the small nation, and to this day, few citizens of Aeternu had ever seen her. In fact, there were still a large number of Aeternans who were completely unaware that anyone had taken control of their government. They were unaware that she WAS the government. There were no others.

Sybele was an ancient priestess and warrior-witch of the Empire of Acheron. It was she along with Teii of Vhammpyr and Tanith of Atlantis who started the rebellion against the Lords of Acheron. Centuries later, they were victorious, though at an unimaginable cost. Fully two-thirds of the planet Terra lay in ruins, billions dead. But the vampyr-kings of Acheron were no more.

And now, she ruled Aeternu with a light hand, satisfied to spend her days in the aquisition of ancient lore and rituals that enhanced her powers. On this day, however, her studies were disturbed by a ripple in the Streams of Power.

"Tsaphon......Slayn......Orcantiis............................"

Lady Moonshadow stepped back from king Krassner and Amra as if she had been struck. Mumbling under her breath for a moment she seemed to regain her composer. "Jada Child, call your Father now and inform him of what has happened. If Slayn is conspiring with the dark forces of Ssyn we all could be in for some real trouble."

Turning to Amra Leenara looked up at the soon to be Emperor. "Amra few know this but Slayn was once a practitioner of dark magic. He chose to for go use of his powers in order to serve the old Duke, Ozgood's Father. If Slayn has gone back to his old ways then we may be facing a power as great as the demon who killed your Father."

"Lady Moonshadow, What do we do?" Asked a now worried looking Jada.

"We go about our business for the moment. For we will not be able to locate Slayn if he is using his powers to hide. I don't think he will appear for a while but we must be on our guard for when he does come."

Far north in the ruins of the cities of Mog Druthin, General Valenus Sutos, de facto ruler of the Scythasi, watched the torrents of rain, sleet, and snow blanketing the land. He and several others, including the one called Tsaphon, busied themselves with every conceivable plan to gain access to Xeraphian Imperial lands.

His people were the remnants of the combined former Roman military nations of Mog Druthin. Many were deformed, both in mind as well as body, because of the combined missile attacks on their countries. There were relatively few thermo-nuclear ICBMs, but they had been strategically aimed at the large concentrations of Roman military installations. Which happened to be very near the civilian centers of not only Roman bases, but the multi-national coalition that had been formed by Azulun, renegade vampyric warrior.

Millions upon millions had died, many vaporized, others dying the slow, agonizing death of radiation poisoning. What the nukes didn't kill, the frag-heads did.

Hundreds of frag-ICBMs impacted thousands of square miles of the doomed region. Each warhead had carried thousands of razor-sharp bits of metal. Those warheads exploded 1/2 mile above the earth, and the effect was devastating.

Now, high on top of a butte in the ruined outpost of a former Baalii fort, Sutos turned and said sharply, "Fools! You plot against Xeraph in vain! It has been tried numerous times over the centuries, yet fails every time. Ghengiz, Xaltotun, and Azulun hurt them bad, but no one has defeated them or their allies. As I see it, we have one last chance to do so. This pup of an Emperor, Amra, is not like his father. When he is attacked, he destroys anything and everything in his path. No of us will survive if we do not conquer Xeraph this time." Turning to Tsaphon, he said, "What say you, wizard? Got anything in your bag of tricks?"

Tsaphon, The Unknown One, glared balefully at the general. "I'd watch my tongue, human. I can do without you and this miserable bunch of bandits and thugs."

Valenus was not one to take crap from anyone. Stepping towards the sorceror, he replied, "Oh really? Is that why your'e here, licking your wounds from the last attempt?"

"Azulun killed Alaric. Enough of a victory for now."

"Hmmm, yes. For now." He stepped back to the window, shivering in the cold. "His son will not be so easy to kill. Alaric fought down the wild,demonic blood that flowed through him. The bloodlines of werewolves, warrior-priests, vampyrs, and the rulers of ancient Atlantis........as well as Acheron. He is a berserker. He will not stop pursuit of his enemies until he or they are dead."

He turned and sat down at a rough-hewn table. "No, my esteemed conjurer, tricks and sleight of hand will not do it this time around. He has that infernal bunch of holy-rollers, the White-Robed Monks, to aid him in countering your powers. And he's got Sybele of Aeternu." He stared at Tsaphon, measuring that statement's effect.

Tsaphon answered, "I'm well aware of the she-witch and her current powers. Yes she is formidable, but not unbeatable. There are limits to her power." He was, in fact, a bit unnerved to know of Sybele's existence. He had thought her dead thousands of years ago. Surely an effect of her power that she could hide her spirit from him.

The general noted the slight look of surprise on Tsaphon's face. "Heh, your'e full of shit, wizard. She's out there, and she's better than you."

From a dark corner of the room, a soft, eerie voice came. "Perhaps, Valenus, perhaps. But the two of us together can undoubtedly do her and Amra some damage."

Sutos peered in the dark corner. "And just who the fuck are you?"

"I've many names, general. Slayn will do for now..........."

The Hooded figure who identified himself as Slayn moved forward as if he hovered just above the rough Hume floor. He spoke to the gathered beings in a low voice that all turned to hear. " Amra and his allies can be defeated, but not by magic alone and not by technology alone. We will need a combination of the two to bring him low."

Turning to Tsaphon Slayn continued "The She Witch is a simple matter the combined powers in this room can send her to hell where she belongs. It is Amra's Allies which we must deal. The Vampyr, The Mandalorians, The men of Xeraph and those Damn Tarlagians those are the ones we must deal with."

Removing from the sleeve of his robe a blue vile he raises it above his head and shows it to the room. "Here is the weapon that will bring Amra low."