The Vengeful Tide-Ch. 41 (Patreon)

Greetings everyone,

Definitely was cutting it close to the wire this time, but I'm still glad I managed to get it out in time. Sometimes I believe February is busier than December or November.

Chapter 41, The Son of Poseidon meets the Crown Prince and Royal Princess of the Empire. He also prepares as the empire swiftly devolves into the throes of war.

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The Prince and Princess of the Empire look at me, and I could tell they don’t appreciate my presence at all. The former of the siblings then turned an eye to Maeloson. His gaze was focused, but he spoke not a word.

As for his sister, she stared at me like a Draegnar bastard stared at a chest with a heavily guarded lock. I knew not what she found about me that might be so appealing, but I noticed the rest of the table quickly stand to their feet. They dropped to their knees, putting their heads on the ground and bowing before the future emperor of the land and his sister. I rolled my eyes at this grandiose display but offered no comment.

“Should you not bow as well?”

As Maeloson and I were the only bastards not on their fucking knees, I could only assume this question was pointed at the both of us. I faced the two siblings, notably the sister for having asked the question. “I wouldn’t be a pirate if I were bowing my head to a lot like you. You be their leaders. You ain’t mine. Best you remember that,” I retorted.

I knew my answer displeased a lot of the people in this room, Quinn’s brother, Tainn, the most. Still, they could lick that salt off my boots before I’d even consider lowering my head to such a lot. I’d sooner hang up my hat and sell my ship before a bunch of brats forced my knees to the ground.

“That said, if you both think you can make me, then I’d allow you to try. Best you both be wary of the knife’s price you shall pay for such an endeavor,” I said.

The room was silent once more and I already saw Maeloson reach for his bow. The others around the table were grabbing their weaponry and preparing their spells. I watched the mages of the table start to cast spells. Alteria looked at me nervously and Eressa, seas damn her noble soul, tried to get up to protect the royal children.

The Emperor’s children continued to look at me for a long time before Tainn turned his gaze to Alteria. Disapproval was etched on his face like runes on a blacksmith’s sword. That said, even though he tried to hide it, I saw the same look of hatred behind the noble bilgerat’s eyes. “We will discuss this later, Alteria Balamar. You of all know the law concerning pirates,” he said, his voice carrying weight behind it.

“Yes, Your Highness, Prince Tainn. I thank you for your benevolence,” Lady Knight returned.

Though her face said otherwise, I could tell she was struggling mightly to let those words escape her lips. I suppose the whole noble house etiquette shit dictated that she give him a proper reply. That said, it seemed that whatever caused the people to hate Alteria so harshly, it was clearly known by most of the Empire’s military.

“Your Highness, Prince Tainn. I believe it best that we continue on. Despite the circumstances, I understand that we owe Jokllim’s continued existence to Eric Drakclaw,” Lorentia said.

He turned to her. “Though I believe our forces would have quelled the opposition soon enough, I do not doubt the part the pirate has played in it. However, I expect you all to remember that our great empire was founded on its stance against pirates and all their ilk. Whatever the reason, whether our empire stands or not, we have sided with evil and we shall forever have a tainted flag. We merely agree that a tainted flag is better than potentially no tainted flag at all,” he replied.

They all saluted him and the two quickly took a step toward the table. He looked over the map and sat down. “There are many forces spread out over the Hæňgaram lands. Skirmishes have quickly escalated in almost every province. His Majesty has already decided to meet the strongest oppositions where they lay. His Majesty has seen fit that I join the main force along with 1500 soldiers. We will be repelling Zevmar’s allies and the Sairan forces that come along those routes. Rest assured that I will also expend a few able-bodied men to search out these mages in this part of the battle,” he said.

His sister then leaned off the side and pointed to another piece of the map. “His Majesty had tasked me with helping to guard the southern front. Once the mage forces summoning this creature have been eliminated, then we’ll make our way to the western borders, paying careful attention to avoid Taptos. High General Labdin has authority in that sector and we have reports of movements from Ninshil and other kingdoms that could lead to an assault on that front. Despite a few of the Elite Sentinels being tasked to guard the Temple of Lumnina, there will be enough under my command to begin tackling this threat. However, I urge one of the pirate’s members to embark with us,” she said.

The lass’ words clearly stunned the group around her. Even her brother looked at her for an explanation. To her credit, she hardly seemed concerned. “You would have a pirate in your forces, Your Highness?” Olin, the mage, asked in surprise.

“Zevmar will be aware that the mages in Jokllim were taken out if he isn’t already. He will also learn that they will be taken out in Kushnin following our defeat of the approaching naval forces over there. Once he learns that his mages are being targeted, he’ll believe that we’re behind it in some capacity. As much as I detest saying this, we have had pirates in our lands before. Many consider the unruliness of Taptos to be a prime factor in their resurgence. If they are felled by a pirate, who so happened to be plundering the chaos, then it might raise concerns but no issues,” she answered.

“...Aye, before he learns that the Kushnin lands were spared destruction and the armies were sunk to the depths by the same ‘water mage’ who saved Jokllim. However, there is something you lot could do,” I said with a small smirk on my face. The rest of the table turned to me.

“You were not called to speak,” Tainn replied.

“Rest assured that while the reward for this shit is valuable to me, it’s hardly the only method available to me. It’s just the easiest. If you’d like to expend more of your soldiers filling the void left by my crew, then by all means do so and I shall sail toward other matters. Let a few of the mages go. In fact, let a few of the soldiers from the ships escape as well,” I suggested.

I heard a scoff from the table. “And what good would that do?!” someone asked.

I smirked. “You lot know the best way to get treasure? Make someone else do the work for you. If your little princess over there can round up about five mages, then I believe we won’t have to worry too much about Sekria anymore,” I answered confident in myself and what I’d managed to put together.

“And you couldn’t have done this back in Jokllim?” Galadard asked with narrowed eyes.

“And would you have trusted me or my men were I to do so? You might not trust me, but I bet if there’s anyone you all trust it’ll be the Emperor’s daughter,” I surmised, eager to see this little meeting speed along so that I might prepare for the trip ahead.

Naturally, I got no response to my question. Instead, the group turned back to the map. “It’s not a bad idea. Should we conveniently let some of them go, it won’t be difficult to follow them back to their forces. Should we be led to more then we can create an avalanche effect upon them all. Judging by the information garnered from the prisoner, we can expect these groups to be guarded. A platoon shall be deployed here and here. The town of Ranim lies close to the Kushnin border. We can try to drive them there. We’ll then deploy the resource to monitor them,” Quinn said.

“And what if they scatter off?” her brother questioned, folding his arms together against his armor.

“We shall give chase. No nation has a history of many combat mages, and if these are summoning-class then I have no doubts that they will be… quick-footed, especially if they require such great mana to summon this Burrowing creature that has destroyed Taptos. The Sentinels have properly trained hunters who have even managed to guide and corral Hæňgaram Raptortails without being seen. We shall make sure they enter Ranim. Though we run the risk of them still reporting back what they’ve seen,” she returned, casting a glare at me as if to make sure that I too was aware of this predicament.

“That won’t be a problem,” I said, meeting the curious gaze of the others. With my hearing, I picked up on the prince’s whisperings to his sister. He asked her if she was sure about this. She simply answered that she would make sure I spoke of the measures I’d take during the battle.

The meeting continued on for much longer than I’d hoped, The Table continuing to fire off war strategies and plans that would make any commoner’s head spin in circles. I leaned against the wall with Maeloson, not taking too much care in the rest of this talk. I thought I might fall asleep until Tainn addressed Eressa.

“Knight-Captain Eressa, you may give your report now,” he said, making all eyes shift to her where she lay.

To the Knight-Captain’s credit, despite words telling her otherwise, she struggled out of her chair. She nearly fell to the ground twice but still, she stood and saluted the prince and princess. “Thank you for the honor, Your Highness, Prince Tainn and Princess Quinn!” she said.

The prince raised his hand, acknowledging her loyalty. He then allowed her to sit and she seemed all too thankful for it. “As much as I hate to admit it, if not for the pirate’s enhancements, I’d probably be dead right now. When the Xetians began their assault on Jokllim, I ordered the troops to guide the citizens out of the city. There was much chaos, but I saw Knight-Captain Alteria heading for the shoreline to combat the forces appearing there. I’d not seen the Commander of Jokllim so I went in search of him, fearing that this assault might become a cover to capture him for unfortunate purposes,” she spoke, giving herself a moment pause to catch her breath.

“I took a group of soldiers with me and headed into the commanding post of the city. When I got there, all the guards of the post had been killed, a hundred in total. We cautiously ascended the stairs. However, I noticed the closer we got to the top, the darker it got. Not even the power of an illuminating spell could pierce through. By the time we reached the top, we heard screams. I ordered us all to advance, but when we arrived… the commander was dead, his body pierced through by a blade of dark-purple fire. There were two assailants in his quarters, one man and one woman. A battle ensued and the woman killed all of my soldiers. The man would not let me intervene, I battled him to the best of my abilities, yet he outclassed me at almost every turn. The longer we fought, the weaker I got. I tried to escape, but the woman wouldn’t let me. Whoever they were, they were skilled magic swordsmen. It… wasn’t long before I fell. They cut off the commander’s head and brought the Jokllim outpost down with one swing. I briefly remember being carried out of the rubble by our men,” she finished.

A powerful silence moved its way over the table and I stared at the ceiling. “‘Tis quite the predicament. An archive of numerous spells which removeth the strength from adversaries is well-documented. That thine allies would face one with such a master of these dark flames is most unusual, however. Thee also hath knowledge of these mystic arts used against her,” An’raie said to me as I snorted.

Aye, the Rage of Holin, a type of black magic which was known to sap the strength of surrounding enemies and add it to one’s own might. However, what confused me was the circumstances surrounding it. That spell was a tier three or four at best. With the enchantments I’d given to Eressa, it was impossible for the last to fall to that spell unless weeks of battle passed. However, if that bastard has somehow taken Eressa’s new strength away, then it was probably possible for him to break the commanding post in half like all of Jokllim had seen. So why had I seen true fire burning from its corners? Despite its appearance, the Rage of Holin wasn’t under the category of fire spells. It might not be impossible to enhance its effects in some way.

A thought slowly formed in my head, one I didn’t truly like. Nevertheless, I kept the thought to myself if only because I sure as hell couldn’t back it up with just a damned feeling. A lot like this wouldn’t accept that. Well, Alteria might, but I clearly couldn’t rely on her word to persuade them every single time. However, the more I thought about it, the more it made sense. It could be possible to enhance a spell like that if the enchanting magic was etched into the bastard’s clothes through sewn runes. It could also be that a dark magic alchemist had helped forge a blade that could siphon strength with the powers of Holin as a base. If such a matter were the case, then I felt a grin appear on my face.

I believe I just found two opponents worth Diane’s time.

The group fired off comments back and forth regarding Eressa’s story and what to do about the people who’d taken the Jokllim Commander’s head. Their fears of what the enemy might find in his head were warranted, but the bastards had been cloaked which meant that Eressa wasn’t able to give a proper description of them. The man was supposedly very tall, almost as tall as Goron and Nz’ia, ‘or the two giants of the pirate’s crew’ by Eressa’s words. By his build, he was fairly muscular as Eressa spoke of his considerable strength.

On the other hand, the woman was very fast, easily taking care of the force Eressa took with her. For her punishment of losing to the enemy, Tainn assigned her a punishment that she’d not promote in her career until she took care of the two assailants. Eressa thanked him for the opportunity which made me wonder if this was some odd attempt to help her salvage her pride as a Hæňgaram warrior, but I figured the lass wouldn’t mind a bit of help with that quest of hers.

The meeting drew to a close after that. Maeloson offered a quick report of what he and Aesteal had done, including what they’d done to try and deal with Zevmar. “Hmmm, blessings. So that was the strangeness I sensed when he stood before our father, the Emperor,” Tainn said.

They spoke a little more on this, and it wasn’t long until Maeloson and I were allowed to go. We exited the way we came. I rolled my neck, eager to return to my quarters for the rest of the night.

“Eric Drakclaw!”

A voice called out to me and I resisted the urge to sigh. Maeloson and I turned around to see Alteria walking toward me. “For a Hæňgaramian, you spend quite a bit of time around me, lass. Charmed by my presence are you?” I asked.

“Hard to be charmed by the smell of a sewer rat. No, I wish for your thoughts on the matters presented. You might look like a lazy man, but I’ve gotten to know your ways a little. You seemed attentive to Eressa’s story. I’d like to hear what you know,” Lady Knight said, studiously walking with Maeloson and I. Her eyes were practically bored into the side of my head.

Even though he didn’t say anything, I knew Maeloson wished to ask the same of me. The subtle shift in the way he walked, the movement of his head and ears to tune into my voice, it became clear to me that I’d not receive much rest on the way back. “Let’s just say your Knight-Captain’s gonna need some help to battle those two if she ever runs into them again. Though luckily for her, I’ll send a perfect backup for her. As for the rest, I won’t need a lot of men. Three will be enough,” I said.

I was a bit surprised that neither Alteria nor Maeloson questioned my choice of so few men. Instead, they continued to listen to my words until we finally made it to our lodging place. “I wish you the blessings of Lumnina when you journey with Her Royal Highness. Though for both our sakes, I pray your relationship stays amiable. It wouldn’t do us well for either of you to have your swords pointed at one another,” Alteria said before I watched her walk off back to her tent.

I watched her go slowly. As she was responsible for us, she’d be joining the battle in Kushnin under Ragni and his forces. Of the Hæňgaramian blood I wouldn’t care about seeing spilled the lands, hers were oddly not one of them.

When I turned my head, I saw Maeloson staring at me with a curious expression. “Something about me you find fascinating?” I asked.

“Not at all, Sir,” he answered. I could have sworn by all the ale aboard my ship that I heard some sort of jest in his voice. His stern expression hadn’t changed so I wondered if I imagined it but it sure as hell felt like it.

I allowed my eyes to settle. “Fine. Then, once you’ve rested, go inform my mother that she’ll be traveling with me, you, and Aesteal. We shall set out in the morning,” I returned. I watched him nod before he left me, heading back to his own quarters to prepare for tomorrow.

I returned to my room soon after that. When I opened my door, I was graced with the sight of Aesteal and Diane in my bed surrounded by the fairmaids. Seeking not to disturb them, I moved quietly through my room until I was fully undressed. I slipped into bed as softly as I could, but it seemed to not be soft enough.

“Have a nice talk, did you?” Diane asked groggily.

“There are rarely nice things when dealing with a lot like that. Though best you be prepared. Perhaps you shall have one of those fights you desire soon enough,” I said. I leaned back on my pillow, Aesteal lifting her head to my chest.

Diane spoke not a word, and I couldn’t see her face since her back was turned to me but if I knew her like I thought I might she had to be grinning with anticipation. As I’d promised, I’d find her worthy foes by which to test her strength. It was without a doubt one of the reasons she stomached being a part of my ship. Aside from Liara’s orders, she’d test me in her way. It was a test I fully intended to pass and reap the bountiful treasures that lay from it.

The rest was welcome, being interrupted from it, again, was not. A knock came upon my door and I was forced to remove Aesteal and Diane, who had rolled over to rest in my arms, from me. I answered the door and saw Ellen glaring at me. “Your royal highness fucking wants you,” she said.

I sent Ellen away and dressed myself to head to the front door. When I came upon it, I saw the members of Raven’s Shadow already in the main hallway with the Hæňgaramian princess, Quinn. There were a few of her men with her, all of their expressions professional. I saw neither hate nor approval in their eyes. Instead, they continued to stand with their hands behind their backs clearly ready to begin our travels.

The Princess turned to me, her gaze as that of a lion. “I expect you and your men at the gate in one hour. High General Ragni has already left with his men and reports indicate that the ships have passed the Mollun Sea. Our ships and our allies continue to be destroyed and we believe they will make land in four days. I am forced to rely on your aid. I urge you to not make me regret it,” she said before she urged her men to move out. They saluted her and they marched out of the building until not a single Hæňgaramian was left.

“You can tell that bitch needs to get fucked,” Racaell said, getting the others to laugh.

“If her cunt’s as tight as her personality, I pity the lad who’s forced to bed her,” Truon then replied while I continued to stare at the door.

“Problem, Captain?” Rieth asked, causing the group to look at me.

I turned to them and smirked. “The drums of war beat upon the ground. Take what you can from those who fall before you. It’ll be a treasure trove of opportunity,” I replied as I marched my way back up the stairs.

I returned to my room, watching Diane and Aesteal wake up. The fairmaids untangled themselves, stretching their arms and flapping their wings. The grin on my face must not have left because Diane quickly commented on it. “And what’s got you in such a good mood?” she asked.

My eyes lingered on her bare chest, the muscles of her toned stomach illuminated by the dawn of the sun. Despite my exhaustion, I thought of how nice it’d be to latch my mouth into her tits and pull her nipples between my teeth. Had I the time, I might actually endeavor in that.

“Well, we ain’t sitting on our asses anymore. Aesteal, you and I shall head out in an hour with Maeloson and my mother. Diane, head out with Eressa. Stay with her and you’ll find your battle. Fret not about rest. We’ll head to the Kushnin providence,” I said.

Aesteal firmly nodded.

While we got dressed, I went over the details of the meeting last night. Diane had come to the same conclusion I had regarding her opponents. It seemed that she had no worries about it. In fact, she hastily fastened her gloves and threw on her coat. As for Aesteal, I told her what she and Maeloson would be doing while I took care of the ships making their way to the empire’s southern lands. Grabbing her bow and quiver, she agreed.

As for the fairmaids, Aesteal took hers and I took mine. We walked out of my room, seeing my mother and Maeloson waiting for us. As expected, the former had still been sleeping when she was woke up. Her mood seemed sour, leaning against the wall without commenting on anything. I was impressed that Maeloson made it out unscathed from her wrath.

Despite my age, I’d never forgotten receiving the flames of her anger when I’d abruptly awakened her. I still remembered the black eye she gave me for two weeks. When I was a lad, I always wondered why she hated mornings so much. It’d taken me a bit to learn that her illness made it hard for her to go to sleep sometimes, the pain keeping her up on more than one occasion. There were times she’d just stay in bed all day and night while I caused havoc on Draegnar.

My mother noticed my gaze and I was blessed with a sight that I thought I might never see again as I sailed along the rotten lines of the sea aboard my ship. Her hate-filled eyes softened and she turned away bashfully. Had I not known her, I never thought it’d be possible for my mother to even spell such a word. She brushed a piece of her auburn hair to the side.

“Find a night to talk to her now, Sir. She will come to you.”

I turned and saw Aesteal smiling at me. “And what makes you think so that you would boast with such confidence?” I asked curiously.

“Because I was the same,” she answered, gliding her fingers over my arm. I turned back to my mother, but she refused to meet my gaze any longer. I thought all this to be a tad stupid, like a Draegnar bastard suddenly giving up his gold coin to an unfortunate soul, or C’ula merchant giving away his wares for free. I wasn’t able to make sense of all of this. Unless mandatory, my mother had done all she could to avoid me. Aside from anything to do with the Hæňgaram war, we’d hardly talked about anything else. The closest I’d gotten to her was when Ellen voluntarily shared her senses with my mother as we fucked in my room. I knew not what to make of that, and much less did I wish to bring it up lest I drive her away further.

In the end, I decided to hold off on the matter for now. I gathered Aesteal, my mother, and Maeloson to me. We stepped outside and made our way down the hill.

“So we’re letting those bastards go? What for?” My mother asked.

“When unexpected circumstances arise, it's usual to do the most comfortable thing for the group. Even if they have to go into hiding, they’ll try and contact the rest of their forces. Even if they try it by magic, we’ll be able to sense the flow even if the rest of the mages in the princess’ forces can’t. It won’t be hard to find the rest of them by connecting Sir’s mana to the rest of the spell. Once we’ve found them, we can take them out in one swift strike. Without a means of summoning the creature, there will be no more forces in the dark,” Maeloson answered.

My mother hummed. “A slit throat from the back works just as well,” she replied.

“I believe if the emperor could or his children could be assassinated so easily, someone of Zevmar’s stance would have done so already. He’s also gone out of his way to hide all of this. Either he doesn’t believe he can face the emperor with a frontal assault, or… it’s better to show his strategic prowess,” Aesteal remarked.

We continued descending the hill. “So he’s doing this 'cause it gets his rocks off?” my mother asked.

I couldn’t resist the chuckle, but I shook my head. “It might be that way for many a man, but not for someone like him. I’ve met his gaze a lot. He’s had his pride shattered and vengeance lies beneath his gaze. If he can’t have the empire, then he’ll fucking burn it all to the ground,” I answered. Aye, I’d known that gaze a lot. That same fire behind his eyes lay behind mine. Once this shit was finished, I’d return to my list for I would not forget it until every last name had been knifed off.

I stilled when I felt Aesteal touch me. She looked up and I grumbled when I saw the sun replaced by grey clouds. I pinched the bridge of my nose and let up on my anger. I too would rather this not be held off any longer. I’d slowly begun to get my fill of the empire and its citizens.

We arrived at the gate, meeting Quinn and her men. All of them were decked out in prestigious armor, the princess even more so. Alteria was also there, standing at the princess’ side. “We march for the Providence of Kushnin. The enemy seeks to defile our lands, our home, and our brave nation. However, they underestimate us. We are the wall that they will try to climb. We are the wall that will prove insurmountable. We are the sword that will not break. We are the soldier who shall not falter. For our families, we will rid the land of all evil! For the Empire! For the Emperor! For Hæňgaram!” She roared.

Her men cheered and so did Lorentia’s forces observing them. My mother rolled her eyes, but I noticed a wistful look in Maeloson’s eyes. He stared at the princess and her men like he’d been where she was once upon a time. It actually reminded me that I’d not questioned him much of his own past as I had with Aesteal. Granted, I’d met and sailed with plenty of bastards with a temperament like his. Even when asked, they dare not mention too much about themselves. Many who’d sailed with me had done so to get away from an accursed life, embracing the joy of freedom on the open seas. Most wanted the wealth, glory, and romance of the ocean. Others just wished to forget. It seemed Maeloson was of the latter.

With the necessary grandstanding of the soldiers deepthroating their nation's flag down their gullets out of the way, we walked out of the empire. Walking out, I saw many soldiers turn and salute the princess as she marched out. She stood proudly before them all, the image of the emperor’s might and strength until we left the empire behind.

Not even five minutes into the walk, Quinn released a series of bird whistles into the air. The soldiers don’t speak, they don’t even huff or pant. They march behind the Princess of the Empire while I spotted at least five flying creatures glide above the land’s treetops. The mages of the group continued to walk, even as their senses and mana were shared with the beasts above. It seemed that the princess’ unit comprised quite a few beast mages, no doubt this sort was mostly used for scouting purposes. None of them had the stores of mana that were capable of contracting with large beasts fit for battle. In fact, the beast mage back at Lorentia’s table had better reserves than they did. Had they been the ones that received the mental blow from Taptops, none of them would have survived.

Judging by the fact that our first break had been at night, I imagined the princess had quite the history of marching for long days. While Alteria, Maeloson, my mother, and I never felt any sort of exhaustion from the journey, I knew that the soldiers weren’t so fortunate. They began putting up tents and setting up fires. I noticed Alteria’s tent was a little further from everyone else’s as were ours. Lady Knight didn’t seem to pay it much mind, in fact, I dare say she expected it.

Quinn separated her soldiers into a night watch. She then offered a brief meeting in regard to this little operation of ours. Maeloson, Aesteal, and I would head into the General’s camp while Quin, Alteria, my mother, and the rest of the men kept watch of the area for Sekria’s summoners.

Obviously, my mother wasn’t too pleased by the idea of being in the company of Hæňgaramians alone. “Great, I get to be with the righteous army of shit bucklers,” she uttered before she walked off.

I chuckled as I watched her leave before returning to my tent. Surprisingly, the camp was peaceful for the night until we were woken up bright and early once again, something my mother was severely angry with. Nevertheless, we continued on our journey through the dirt road. It was a shame that we’d not met any enemy patrols on the way to Kushnin. I could tell my mother was eager to blow someone’s head off, whether by gun or by fist. I certainly wouldn’t have minded adding more to my inventory. Still, it wasn’t like I wouldn’t get anything out of this trip. The fleets of the enemy would see to that.

Days passed and we finally entered Kushnin. Upon entering, Quinn stopped her men. “We shall head out into the wilderness and make camp. You will head down to the City of Nuluk. There you shall…”

“Aye, we went over the matter already, lass. No need for the reminder. Aesteal, Maeloson, come,” I ordered, waving off the royal brat and her army. I could tell she didn’t appreciate my tone, but I’d already begun to walk away before I heard too much of a complaint. However, I did turn around to see my mother join the rest of Quinn’s soldiers, her face settling into a look of indifference.

If there was one thing unfortunate about this trip, it was that I hadn’t gotten the time to speak with my mother. Despite Aesteal’s insistence that I move forward, I found a difficult wind blowing upon my sails. I knew not how to bring up the matter without making an utter fool of myself. I’d not understood it. I’d been with my mother for years, and in recent months been intimate with her. It shouldn’t have been difficult, especially for one as old as me, to approach her. It’d be funny if it weren’t so pathetic.

What was worse was that Aesteal seemed to enjoy my angst, smiling at me knowingly. “You really are a Draegnarian, Sir,” was her only response a night ago.

My mother looked at me and her face lit up like a field of roses. She swiftly walked away and so did I.

Deciding to put the thoughts of my mother behind me, An’raie spoke. “Giveth me a few of these souls that I might take command of them. Once thine business hath been concluded upon these lands, I seek material for further study. The Betrayer’s vast knowledge hath proven valuable. ‘Twill be necessary to use it once I have found him,” she said.

“Aye, do with them what you want. I don’t care,” I said as we made our way into Nuluk’s roads. Nuluk was almost nothing like Jokllim. In fact, the city was comprised of two islands. A stone bridge was constructed tying the first part of the city to the mainland. Soldiers were stationed across the bridge opposite one another. Buildings, such as homes, institutes, libraries, and merchant sectors littered the first island from the highest hill to its lowest shore.

The second island was connected to the first through another bridge near the highest point of the former. This island was much larger, sporting fancy estates and noble houses filled with splendid decor. The type a pirate such as myself wouldn’t mind appropriating if given the chance. Yet none of the buildings could begin to hold a candle to the fucking giant castle-like building towering over the rest of the city. I dared think it was even larger than the one in Jokllim. For that Lion Beastman, I imagined he’d eagerly take up residence there.

“Halt! All citizenry have been ordered to leave the city. Any found…”

“Save the shit for someone else. Inform your grand general that we’ve arrived. We’re expected,” I said.

The guard looked at the three of us suspiciously. “And make haste before I run out of patience. I’m known to have little of it,” I said, fed up with this farce.

The guard growled at me, but he slowly exhaled. “You were described as High General Ragni said you were. I suggest you tread carefully else you shall be amongst the list of enemies who are felled by the might of the Empire,” he said as allowed us to step inside.

I had quite the retort for him, but I somehow managed to let it go. In any other circumstance, I might have just blown his head off, but I was sure I’d get the opportunity once our business here was concluded.

Crossing the bridge and entering the city, all I could see were soldiers stationed at various points in the city. Some were even hidden away, no doubt preparing for the likelihood of an ambush. I stared out into the open sea, two Hæňgaram ships filled with men and women ready for combat. It seemed Lorentia had more faith in my might than I’d thought if this was all they’d send.

“I see a few weak points. However, they are very well-organized. I’d only gotten glimpses of their military structure from the units that would move through Fgg’rial. Even though many of them are afraid, they try not to show it,” Maeloson said.

“Fear has a way of infecting an army if not properly treated. I only find it a tragedy that the enemy they fear would be their greatest hero,” Aesteal added before we were met by a deer beastman riding atop a horse. He looked down at us with a frown.

“You three, come with me,” he said.

He led us through the city. “I pray you are everything General Ragni hoped you are. We are vastly outnumbered and we are most definitely not prepared for an assault on the southern front like this. Despite appearances, the morale of the men is low. What is your plan of action?” he asked, the galloping of his stead’s hooves almost in time with the crashing of the waves I heard in the far distance. I’d heard this noise before, just before Jokllim was assaulted.

“I plan to save your hides. The best way to do that would be to dock your ships and gather your men into the city. The more that stay out of my way the better. Also, you’d best prepare for rain,” I suggested. The beastman looked at me skeptically.

“I pray your confidence in yourself is not misplaced. There are good men under my command. I’d like to see them return to their families,” he returned.

We crossed the bridge that linked the first island to the second. We ascended into the castle building, soon standing before a small table comprised of the Lion Beastman and the captains under him. “General Ragni, I have indeed served under you for over five solar cycles. We fought and bled at the Battle of Limcliff. However, it is impossible to hold a line like this with only 5,000 men against the coming fleet. It would be better to abandon the land and let them claim it. Should they choose to settle here, we can strike from the inside. We are people of the Empire, we know these passages better than anyone. We could launch an assault either from the water or from the cover of night. However, defending this area is paramount to suicide, even great should we or you be taken captive!” one of the captains said, slamming his hands on the table in frustration.

Ragni immediately spotted me and my elves. Despite our arrival, he looked no less pleased. A deep growl formed in his throat. “Your concern is noted. However, we will succeed. The answer lies in our guests,” he said through gritted teeth, almost like they were the vilest words he’d ever spew out of his mouth.

All eyes turned to us. “A boy shorter than a squire and two elves? This is your plan?” another asked.

“He’s not just any boy. He’s the… hero who saved Jokllim from the Xetia invasion. If we have any hope of repelling the forces, then it will be with him,” Ragni asserted. The others continued to look at me, no less confident in me than Ragni himself. In fact, it seemed clear to all those present that the general either didn’t believe those words or despised saying them. Never did I think I might be labeled a hero, especially by a nation known for its hatred of pirates.

“I imagined him older. It was said that he cast a spell to split the waters and crush the naval forces. Word spread quickly of him. Even if I don’t believe them. How could one so young command water spells such as these? They would have to be above Tier 4 spells. Are we really entertaining such nonsense, General?” another asked.

Ragni immediately turned to the captain who dared speak. “Are you calling the Grand Elder’s authority nonsense?” he asked.

The captain to the left immediately shut his mouth after that. All eyes continued to look at me before the General dismissed his men. “I see your travels have fared well,” he said, speaking once they’d all left.

“Sorry to disappoint you. It be a curse of fortune in my favor. Your little princess has gone into the woods to search for the mages. Should fortune favor you this time, it’ll bring you lot one step closer to ending this misery. Then I can shed off this title of yours. Be confident that I find no care in your title as you much if not more than ye do,” I responded. I had no interest in being a hero to any nation or people outside of those on my ship. The lot still continued to praise me as Poseidon himself, Aesteal even joining on on more than one occasion. At this point, I assumed their praise was more to annoy the fuck outta me than anything else.

“The only thing that will grant me peace is when you and your ilk have been thoroughly removed from our lands. Every step you take is an affront to what we fight for. Had I my way, I would have taken the suggestion to abandon this city. In fact, were it not for you, we’d have more forces to aid in this suppression. I’m forced to admit that your presence brings about something good, even if your intentions lay elsewhere. The men are tense. We expect them either in a few hours or tomorrow. Worst case would be under the cover of night, the same as what occurred in Jokllim,” he said.

“Whether the seas sail them day or night is no matter. The job of your men be to take care of anyone who tries to make it into the city. Also, worry not, they’ll get here before it gets dark. In fact, the bastards will get some help,” I uttered, enjoying his confused look.

“Put the men on your empire’s ships to better use. I’ll have no need for their help.”

I turned around and ordered Maeloson and Aesteal to follow after me. “I sense there is more than just this coming upon us, Sir. The wind blows the smell of birds, yet I’ve not seen one fly across the sky,” Aesteal warned.

Indeed I smelled the same thing, as did Maeloson. “Aye, take yer spots. The air grows thick with magic. I’ve rewritten what runes I could, but many of them are coming too quickly. They shall be upon us soon,” I said.

“Yes, Sir!” They said before they walked off, finding whatever position worked best for them.

In the meantime, I exited the city and sat on a nearby cliff, surveying my kingdom of water. Out of the corner of my eye, I saw the two warships of the empire pull into the city’s port. The soldiers and the captains of the ship came out, the latter ordering explanations from the General and the rest of his men. I tuned them out and stared out, feeling the tides come closer and closer.

Nei popped her head out of my pocket, smelling the mana-rich air. Lei swiftly followed after her. I saw both of them begin feasting upon it. They opened their mouths and I watched the mana swirl into their stomachs like a drunkard with a warm tankard. Their wings glowed in a myriad of colors as they continued to eat.

“Eat your fill quickly. Stormy seas lay ahead,” I told them both, spinning my fingers in circles. The water in the clouds began to pull them together. I clenched my left fist. The clouds come together, covering the might of Helios from all below it. I take up water from the sea and drive it into the clouds.

The seas began to grow wild. Thunder rolls through the clouds and a brief flash of lightning struck the skies. Using a small wind spell, it didn’t take long for a large storm to begin to brew. The seas roared and crashed against the shoreline and a fleet of rain fell open the city and the oceans for miles. Waves crashed against each other, and like a disease, the stormed clouds infect the skies until no light shone anywhere. By my hand, by the Hand of the Son of Poseidon, the waters obey me and even the skies dare not refuse me. I stand over them all as I had for numerous years in my first life.

No sooner than having completed my act, did my eyes pierce through the darkness. I spotted 50 ships over the stormy waves. Despite the darkness, I knew they were formed in groups of ten by their individual kingdoms. Ten ships from the Kingdoms of Lim, Sulkr, Rozim, Lrothik, and Ninshil sailed for the City of Nuluk. The bells toll in the city, the scattering of soldiers moving through my ears. I spotted a few of them and they don’t look confident, many of them fully expect to lose their lives in this assault. Some pray to their Hæňgaramian gods, others sing the empire’s anthem. However, none of them tremble. Aside from the running and the rain pelting their armor, I heard nothing that would resemble fear. A land like Draegnar would already have descended into chaos, well… greater chaos than usual.

Aside from them, Nei and Lei were fucking loving the spectacle before them. They wailed into the rain and flapped their wings happily. “Sir, there is movement overhead,” Maeloson said to me.

“Aye, that I know. They must be quite adept at lightning magic to fly in a storm like this. Pay it no mind. Clip their wings and this fleet shall have no aerial support left. Pray you have deep pockets, Maeloson. ‘Tis a fine day for a plundering!” I remarked as I stood to my feet.

Protecting Hæňgaramians for a second time in my life. Never thought I’d stomach the day. As Maeloson said, I spotted a man with the wings and head of a hawk and the body of a man. Mana swirled around him, powered by ancient runes and finely crafted armor. He spoke the ancient language and he fired a spear of lightning toward the city. The blast attracted every lightning bolt in the skies that it could, further increasing the strength of its power.

“‘Twill be a disgrace upon my name shouldest thee fall before such a crude spell as this. Darest thee to not make me wish mine body would have fared better upon that accursed island,” An’raie said.

I was prepared to respond, but it seemed I didn’t need to. Nei leaped out of my pocket and flew onto my head. She then licked her lips and opened her mouth. The lightning spell immediately shifted from its target of the city and straight through her lips. She swallowed every piece of the lightning spell before the eyes of everyone until it had all but vanished, no doubt stunning them all.

She then grinned. “Mate mighty! Show strength!” She chorused before she fired the blast out from her mouth, even stronger than what had been put into it. The lightning crashed into the sea until it collided with one of the ship's magical barriers. Unfortunately, it was a shitty one and was immediately broken into pieces. The lightning crashed into the ship, blowing it up. It then two through the three behind it, each of them exploding in a sea of flames. One by one, four ships fell into the sea.

I grabbed Nei and looked down at her in my palm. “Could ye always do that?” I questioned. She didn’t reply. Instead, she winked at me playfully. I would have inquired further, but cannon fire quickly came upon Nuluk, forcing me to move my hands and arms quickly. I willed up a wall of seawater, and the cannons crashed into it.

“Aye, well no matter. Let’s see what they think of your magical prowess!” I said, clawing the air and ripping my hands through it. The seas rattled and shook, the fleet of the Kingdoms’ ships shaking beneath their might. The Hæňgaram soldiers watched as swung my arms. Men screamed as one of the ships capsized, a stray cannon firing into one of the allying ships setting it ablaze.

The other vessels continued to push through, amplifying their magical barriers with spells to resist water magic. Some mages even started wielding the powers of my domain, attempting to use the very sea itself to combat my movements. It mattered not. I’d already punctured the hulls of their ships, making them leak water. They might not notice it immediately, but it was enough.

One of the flying beastman must have spotted me because she quickly tried to tear out the earth from under me with an earth spell. Fortunately, she quickly had to fly away when an arrow nicked her cheek.  By its great speed, I knew that had to be either Maeloson or Aesteal. The other beastmen tried to fire upon the city, but Nei and Lei absorbed all of their magic, firing it back at them like fucking children with their toys.

Soon enough, I heard a roar behind me as the Hæňgaramians moved to action. Their archer unit flew arrows through the air as the ships released their cannons over the city. I lifted up another piece of water, freezing it instantly with my rapier. The cannons exploded into it, but the ice was immediately formed into ice shards via more magic. I stopped what I could, but a few pieces of debris crashed into the lower cities of the first island.

“Aye, alright. Ya got a few special lickers on yer ships!” I said as I raised both my hands into the air.

The sea exploded beneath five of the ship, pulling them all into the air. I then pulled the waters apart, allowing the vessels to crash down upon their allies. “ACK!” one of the flying beastman screamed, an arrow right through his neck. He fell into the ocean and An’raie immediately detached her soul from mine. She dove into the water to retrieve his spirit before it was claimed by others.

Turning my attention back, I tilt my head in slight surprise an arrow passing me by. I grin until I see a magic array hover above my head. The ancient runes circle about, but I quickly rewrite them, changing the nature of the spell into something entirely different. The array never even had the chance to launch the spell before it collapsed in a mass of cascading light.

In the meantime, one of the cannonballs managed to get past me and crashed into the city, blowing one of its buildings up in flames. The ships came and came, but I also noticed the scrambling of their forces and the slowing of their advance. No doubt they noticed the holds I’d made, but it was too late to save any of them. The flying beastmen fire spells at me, but Lei and Nei take care of those easily enough. Should they get too close, Maeloson, Aesteal, and the Hæňgaram archers took care of them.

One by one, the ships fell before me. I lifted up four and summoned a mighty wave, larger than any mage was capable of controlling. People screamed as they were devoured. They continued to sail, trying to patch the holes of their kingdom’s pride. However, a move of my fingers moved the water in the ships. I wrap the crew in the cruel tentacles of the sea, sucking away the very air in their lungs.

I smirk, lifting up my hand. Ten water-formed lances puncture through ten ships. They're hoisted into the air, the soldiers falling out while their torn, and broken ships follow after them. Some of them were able to survive by using water magic, but it wasn’t a concern to me. They’ll be dead meat in this storm and those who do survive shall meet the soldiers who were no doubt ready to defend their homeland. Besides, they need not interfere just yet. The less strength they used, the better.

“Die you Hæňgaramian scum!” someone shouted above me. A javelin of fire and lightning was thrown at me. Lei swiftly sucked the mana into her mouth, causing the javelin to fade into nothingness. The flying beastman scowled in anger before they screamed in agony when an arrow broke through their magic barrier and pierced one of their wings. Soon they fall into the water as well.

It soon seemed the lot realized that attacking me directly would do them no good. Instead, they flew toward the city, no doubt hoping to get a drop on General Ragni’s troops while the ships distracted me. Unfortunately for them, I had grown used to having to divert my attention. Years of seafaring warfare had swiftly tempered such a skill as that.

Focusing on the water in their wings, I yank my arm down. Their bodies swiftly followed. They tried to fly, but the rain was too heavy under my command. One by one, they tried to utilize water magic to rid themselves of the rain, but I wouldn’t allow it. Just as I’d done with the fucking Alchemist’s bastard son, I struck their insides with needles rain. No doubt the pain was so harsh, they couldn’t begin to focus on any sort of spell-casting. They could only fall to Nuluk’s soldier-filled roads, waiting for despair. When they crashed, the chorus of men moved, slaughtering their enemies, and stripping their armor from their bodies.

With this fleet’s aerial forces taken care of, I turned my attention back to the rest of the ships. They attempted to split off in separate directions. Half to the west and the other half to the east. Cannonballs and spells continue to fire out. They even tried to fire cannonballs with magic-restricting runes embedded on them. Of course, these weren’t particularly powerful ones. They’d stop any mage from using magic for at most an hour or so, but in the midst of war, that hour would be more than long enough.

Neither cannonballs nor spells get too close to the city, however. With so much rain, it was easy to form a barrier to block every shot. The ones I allow to pass were eaten by Lei and Nei. They were then fired back out. Two more ships were struck, sinking down into the sea.

As for the others, I didn’t allow their escape. I rose my hands into the air. Water gathered from the west and the east. I push it further and further that even I feel the weight of the sea pushing against my hands and arms. Two large pillars of water erupt from the sea, cutting off either vessel’s movements. The storms rage and the water towers were so high that lightning struck them ferociously. The oceans shake with such fury that even I stumble as I feel the islands tremble underneath their might. Nei and Lei flutter their wings and slap their fins down. Clearly, they enjoy this.

One by one, I gathered enough water to pull up the ships with me. Even from here, I heard their screams. Men and women fall into the sea along with the rest of their brothers-in-arms. I clash my palms together and the water pillars collide. I then slammed my hands downward. All the water and the rest of the enemy ships come crashing down. An’raie swiftly floated out into the seabed, searching for any souls to take for her own.

As the waves settled back into their storm-ridden state, I no longer saw any fleet. Fifty ships had been destroyed by me before they could even weigh their anchors upon Nuluk’s shore. I needn’t turn around to see the shock of those behind me. My only regret was that the fucking princess wasn’t here to bear witness to the sight of an empty sea.

Aye, well, technically that was a lie. I’d not killed every soldier that had been on those ships. A couple thousand or so swimming beneath the tides. A few poked their heads out, but I pretended not to notice. It was true that I could finish off the lot like this, but I figured Ragni wouldn’t mind a few fucking prisoners as a sign of the empire’s strength. I also knew that it wasn’t a bad thing for Alteria to be out of Ynro now. Once Zevmar learned of this, there’d no question who was helping the empire persist in this war.

The soldiers of the united kingdoms swiftly began to make their way to the shore. Of course, the Hæňgaramians were waiting for them. Nuluk’s coastline comes alive with the sounds of war and battle. Magic was thrown about and swords clashed in the stormy air. I saw the bright streaks of light. However, the enemy forces couldn’t put up that much of a fight. It was no surprise why. No doubt they’d expected quite a lot of strength swimming through the rough seas to even make it to the island city.

“It’s like shooting fish in a fucking barrel,” I said, getting Nei and Lei to look at me. The enemy forces tried to push through, even making some ground as more and more of them come on land. I supposed the sheer numbers would be too great for the Hæňgaram soldiers to handle. The Kingdoms’ surviving mages started casting restorative magic on their forces, invigorating them to keep fighting. Empire archers tried to take them out, but their arrows weren’t strong enough to pierce the magic barriers erected. A few earth mages even started constructing barricades for themselves. Between their fucking armor, enchanting runes, and talented prowess, no average Hæňgaram soldier had a hope of breaking those down. The lot ought to be thankful then that there were two who could.

I watched two arrows fly through the air, piercing through the barriers and into the heads of the enemy. They fall dead on the sand while I watched Maeloson and Aestela jump from rooftop to rooftop. One arrow for one body, they struck swiftly and without hesitation. The runes I’d sewed into their clothes finally proved their salt for my sweat. Aesteal fired one of her arrows with such precision that it flew into the barrel of a gun and speared through a gunman’s left eye. His screams didn’t last long until he was overrun.

“FOR THE GLORY OF THE EMPIRE!”

I turned my head and saw General Ragni, roaring with the might of a lion. One swing from his sword cut one man in half. The soldiers behind him roar to life. The city becomes drenched in flames, but the massive downpour I’d provided did more than enough to keep it from raging out of control.

Believing I’ve seen enough, I crack my neck. It was a shame my mother wasn’t here. Despite our current crooked relationship, I knew she’d enjoy seeing me fuck shit up over a battlefield such as this one.

I jumped into the air and crashed down onto the sandy shoreline. Soldiers from all sides stare at me in shock. I pull a piece of rain from the air and bring it down like a sharp blade. A mighty man from Sulkr falls before me. I take the water that was within him and add it to the rest. Soldiers scream as I wove my hands, a piece of water sailing through the air. The more hardened warriors tried to attack, but I block their shots by crashing the water in their faces. Whatever I desire, it becomes. I litter the beaches with Hæňgaram’s enemies. They resist as hard as they can, but it matters not. I sprout tentacles from the storming sea and drag my victims below it, drowning any caught in my embrace.

A magic matrix comes under my feet. Not only does it briefly restrict me, but it also drained my mana. Soldiers come upon me while mages fire spells, but I disregard the spells entirely. Nei and Lei feast on them like two gluttonous wenches. “Perish to the Realm of the Dead, Filth!” A soldier shouts as he thrusts his spear at me, only to shudder when it fails to pierce my body, its long handle snapping in two. It was a fucking pain in the ass, but the enhancement of my body continued to bear the fruit of my labors.

The matrix couldn’t hold me for long. My stores of mana were much too great and quickly overpowered it. I continued my assault, the screams of my victims moving through the ears of the Hæňgaram military. Aye, there be nothing finer than the smell of gunpowder and the clashing of swords in the night air.

The seas roar behind me, as I punctured a handful of soldiers right through their chests with blades of water. It doesn’t matter what they do. It doesn’t matter how they resist. In the end, they are wiped from D’orn by my hand. They are drowned by the Son of Poseidon.

Between me, Aesteal, Maeloson, the fairmaids, the enemy’s exhaustion, and declining morale, and the talented might of the Hæňgaram army, the battle still took about three hours. If anything, the hard part was keeping so many of the empire’s soldiers alive. Very few fell to the numbers of the enemy, but they were quickly brought down until there were only a couple hundred of them left. As much as it must have pained their leaders, they surrendered.

The rain continued to fall and I became aware of myself again. Soldiers from the five kingdoms litter the streets of Ninshil with their bodies. The rain helped to drain it away, but it doesn’t do much from the smell of smoke in the air. Surprisingly, Nei and Lei weren’t perturbed by the grisly sight. In fact, they don’t seem to care either way. Instead, they hiss at the bodies, bearing their sharp teeth.

“You make it rather hard to fire in the rain, Sir.”

I turn my head and see Aesteal approach. She cautiously avoids the bodies as much as she can. I suppose as an elf she’d never go so far as to desecrate them in such an obvious manner. Maeloson walked behind her. Naturally, they’re both drenched to their core.

“Consider it practice. Conditions are hardly ever favorable,” I returned, a small smile on my face. Though Aesteal and Maeloson were reluctant to do so, I show no concern about picking through the bodies for valuables. The materials were rather bad, especially when compared to the likes of Delverhold, but even cheap materials have their purposes.

All around, I heard talk of the Master of Oceans, a mage of such talent that had not been seen in thousands, if not tens of thousands of years. Tales of my origins began to float through the soldiers. Perhaps I was lucky it was so dark as they wouldn’t be able to make out my face. Of course, I spotted General Ragni’s face. Despite the victory, his wild mane grew agitated. His sharp teeth seethed with anger as the soldiers under him continued to sing praises of the unknowing pirate who’d saved their lives. Nevertheless, he could do nothing about it. Were he to bring it up, it’d no doubt dampen their morale and make the poor shit seem ungrateful. I’d seen plenty of bastards fall victim to it. He sure as hell couldn’t tell them they owed their lives to a pirate, some of the bastards might slit their own throats from the shame.

“They speak the grandest tales of you. Some even name you a child of the Spirit of Water,” Aesteal said, not willing to shame her elven roots by calling the Spirit of Water any of the worldly names others used for it.

“If I recall, you were of the same sort,” I argued, rummaging through the pockets of one of the bodies and pulling out a pouch filled with minor enchanting stones.

“Indeed I had, and yet I still do. Though, I also wonder if I should pray you aren’t. Our people would fall out of faith in the Great Spirits if you would be the one they pray to,” she responded.

I snort as I step over the fallen of the Five Kingdoms. “I’ve never wanted anyone to pray to me, and never shall I ever. There is nothing I’ve done to be worshipped over,” I said as I continued to loot the streets and alleyways.

Once I thought I had enough, I rejoined the General and his forces. He seemed to be busy, his captains leading a bunch of disheartened soldiers in chains to the Nuluk prisons. The mana of the enemy mages was sealed with special forehead restraints. Even with the blindfolds over their eyes, I could sense their distress in the water the water rapidly moved through their bodies. They were afraid, terrified even. Generally, prisoners of war weren’t treated the best. However, if the lot were to get captured then Hæňgaram might as well be the safest place for them. Unless necessary, the nation doesn’t have a habit of abusing its captives. Though I wondered how far they might go considering they were close to being overrun from all sides. Had I not been here, I imagined this fleet would have easily made land and carved a path straight through the roads leading to other towns and cities.

The General spotted us and I picked up on a curse under his breath. “If you expect my thanks, I’d sooner cut my tongue off. Thanks have been received enough when the soldiers speak your deeds on their tongues. Now, if you don’t mind, you have somewhere else to be,” he said, his voice clearly displeased with letting Aesteal, Maeloson, and I go.

“Aye, being called a Hæňgaramian, even if it be by your enemies, ain’t doing much for me. Just figured we’d stay just to make sure the lot of you don’t go up in flames when we’re gone. I sure as hell don’t need your prince and princess thinking I had a hand in your destruction. So what will you do with the bounty you’ve collected?” I asked curiously.

“We shall dedicate it to the Emperor, and he shall divide the spoils as he sees fit. Now, away with the three of you. Having you stand next to me irritates me more than I dare desire,” he said.

I stared at him for a moment before I turned around and left. Maeloson and Aesteal followed behind me. “Now we have to wonder if the plan succeeded. You didn’t tell General Ragni that you’d allowed a handful of their forces to escape. To think they swam from Nuluk to the mainland. It’s quite impressive,” Maeloson said as I sailed us toward the Empire’s shores on a bed of water.

“Then it’s good that it won’t take long to find them. Though we’ll have to guide the bastards in the woods toward the correct town. My mother will know that they’ve made land. No doubt that princess will have others monitoring them. If she’s as good as her title claims, then it shouldn’t be hard to herd them,” I said as we continued to head for the shore.

I felt An’raie’s soul connect with mine again, but I quickly tuned her out of my thoughts while I cast a spell, searching and finding my mother’s unique mana signature.

“You’ll be pleased to know, Mother, that the Hæňgaramians shall live to pour out their fucking righteous atop us all another day,” I said, a grin forming on my face when I heard a grunt from the woman who’d raised me.

“Yeah, we found the fucking stragglers who made it to the land. Her Royal Highness over here had some of her scouts watch the battle. You had quite the shitstorm brewing over there. Though if you’re gonna make it fucking rain, then take it further away. Not all of us got the fucking powers to keep the rain off of us. Though if you also love me like you claim, then you’ll get your ass over here. The glory of the empire lost its charm the first time I heard it,” she answered. My lips thinned for a moment, but I found myself focused.

“Indeed, I claim that I love you. Who better for a bastard to love than a mother who regaled him with the joys of piracy?” I asked.

I heard nothing from my mother about what I’d said. I thought that perhaps she’d not cared for my words, but she spoke soon after. “You know damn well I ain’t teach you shit about the joys of piracy. If anything I did a shit job trying to get you off it. In fact, you’ve dragged me back into it, this damn life I thought I’d left behind. Fucking son of a bitch, what am I gonna do with you?” she returned.

In spite of myself, I’d not thought I’d have such joy as to hear my mother’s fiery tongue strike the nerves of my mind like this. It seemed she enjoyed it as well because there wasn’t much anger in her voice despite her aggressive tone. I wished to continue this matter further, but I stayed on course. “And what of the mages?” I asked.

“Yeah, those idiots. Should be lucky they’ve got me. The bastards are a sneaky lot if nothing else. Just like you said in Jokllim, a few of the empire’s bastards were aiding them. Fortunately, we managed to get the jump on them. They scattered like rats, but it wasn’t hard to find them again. Must be all that shit you pumped into me, I can sense them pretty easily, something that irks the princess to no end. Unfortunately, we won’t get them to the town we wanted them in. Instead, they’re headed to another to the Northwest. The rest of the men from that fleet of yours should be corralled with them in a few days. Anything else?” She questioned.

“Aye, tell Alteria to be ready for anything. With the saving of this city, Zevmar will undoubtedly know and she best be prepared for this,” I uttered.

“Doubt it’ll fuck up her reputation more than it already is, but I’ll make sure she knows,” My mother answered back to me.

I cut the connection soon after that as we made for land. The ground was wet and our boots sank into the mud. Even from here, I could smell the smoke from Nuluk. Parts of the city burned, but nowhere knew what they should have had the fleet reached its shoreline. “Mother and the others caught the bastards, but they’re moving them to another city. We’ll meet up with them soon. However, be prepared for anything,” I warned.

Now that I thought about it, it seemed foolish to tell those two such a thing. They had long since felt the same sources of mana that I had. The war had picked up and even over thousands of miles, we all sensed the culmination of great magic in the battles far off. Members of my crew were over there, fighting their damned hearts out. A part of me wondered if I should recall them. Once Zevmar learned that I was in Hæňgaram, and aiding its forces, the bastard would no doubt claim that pirates were in the forces. Not exactly a lie, but I was sure many would suspect my crew from their, no doubt, dishonorable way of battle. Such would only lead to greater suspicion and risk my reward for putting up with this shithole.

Maeloson, Aesteal, and I made our way through the forests of the empire, preparing ourselves to meet up with the princess’ forces. Like a beacon, my mother’s mana led me straight to them. Even without that convenience, we would have found them eventually. With the expert tracking skills of Aesteal and Maeloson, spotting the direction in which the enemy forces were led by the princess’ men wasn’t difficult.

Unsurprisingly, not all of them had managed to escape. Bloodstained leaves and shrubs while bodies lay in the mud with numerous slashes and severed limbs. Even in the rain, raptorbirds tear at their flesh before we continue onward. By the time we’ve caught up, the skies began to grow dark and the storm grew stronger. Aye, I could stop it, but I figured it’d be much easier to follow them under the guise of heavy rain. Still, Hæňgaram wouldn’t have to fear any flooding. I’d continued to control the storm so that it might not grow that severe.

Once we were close enough to the princess’ camp, we made ourselves known. The scouts in the trees glared at us but made no move to impede our steps. In fact, some of them seemed surprised that we’d crossed such a great distance as this so quickly. It’d have taken five days for any normal patrol to get from here to Nuluk.

As we entered, I saw men and women huddled in capes, garments, and coats for the rain. Clearly, they weren’t pleased to see us, but we paid them no mind. The guards of the princess’ tent kept their faces stoic as we approached. I pushed the flaps apart, seeing my mother, Alteria, Quinn, and two other soldiers in it.

Seated behind a desk, the princess look up at us. “The Rage of the Seas indeed. I’d not expected you to be finished so quickly, or even at all,” she said, her tone leveled and without judgment.

“Had I not had to be concerned with the rest of your noble military I might have finished faster. Just find rest in the fact that your wonderful city’s birds won’t be feasting on their own people. Judging by the trail you lot left, I take it you had fun of your own,” I responded in kind.

It seemed my response wasn’t worth an answer. Instead, the princess turned to the map. “With minor alterations, the plan has still unfolded within reason. We’ve tracked them to another town, Mapik. We’ve stopped that far less we’re spotted. I’ve no doubts that suspicions will rise if the Princess of the Empire suddenly showed up there at the same time. As we discussed, the three of you shall enter the town and provide watch over their movements,” The princess said to my mother, Alteria, and I.

It had long been decided that the three of us would enter and keep watch of them. It wasn’t exactly for pleasant reasons. The princess didn’t quite trust my mother and I to enter the town alone. Alteria, with my enhancements, had a better job of detecting the mages, but not a way of piggybacking on their spell when they contacted the rest of their forces. I was sure the princess wouldn’t mind doing it if she hadn’t had one of the most recognizable faces in all the Empire. Plus, she wished to coordinate the rest of the soldiers from a stable place.

“Regardless of how we enter the town, it will seem odd to them. We also don’t know if any of the soldiers of Mapik are working with them either. We’d have to slip in unnoticed,” Alteria said.

I chuckled. “And what do you think the storm be for? We shall get inside without issue,” I remarked. Just as with Anastasia’s estate, it wouldn’t be hard for me to walk us into Mapik.

“Then you won’t have an issue with doing it right now. While we wait, I shall have the men circle around the town. The elves and another asset will be in charge of pursuit when they head off. We will follow close behind. We will then wipe them all out without mercy!” she uttered, stabbing a knife into the map.

“Your Highness, if the mages come together, I don’t believe we’ll have the force necessary to take on so many of them. We must also be aware of protecting the public during these chaotic matters. There have also been reports of movements from the main front. The battle is growing fiercer. Reports of giants appearing on the field have populated. Even with… help, our forces are being pushed back. We believe Zevmar to be behind these recent losses, but… he has countered that there are infiltrators amongst us. As… the pirate stated, many believe Alteria Balamar has forsaken the Empire and brought these forces on us,” one of the soldiers said.

I glanced at Lady Knight. Despite the calmness on her face, I saw her trembling fingers. However, this happened much faster than even I’d expected. Clearly, Zevmar hadn’t waited until the news of Nuluk to make such a call. As I thought, Jokllim was enough evidence to suggest his greedy mindset.

“Well, he’s certainly not incorrect. Though, if we damn her, then we shall be damned ourselves. It won’t matter. They won’t find her and protecting the public is a given. Tainn has already had father assign members of his royal squad to every major city. As for these supposed giants, we must have faith in our men until we’ve dealt with this matter. The Empire has stood before and it shall continue to stand forevermore,” Quinn stated, leaving no room for argument.

I tried not to chuckle when I wondered how she might take the knowledge that the Empire had fallen, if only temporarily to such warfare. Lass would probably explode outta her royal garments.

“Yes, Your Highness!” the soldiers and Alteria salute while the rest of us made our way out of the tent.

“I’ll try not to hope those damn mages take days to perform their little spell. Should give me enough time from noble empire saluting and ass-kissing to royalty,” my mother said, stretching her arms and legs in the damp air.

“Fret not. I don’t believe the captain will be making any more deals regarding Hæňgaramians for as long as he lives,” Maeloson responded.

“Aye, of that you can be sure. Though the two of you don’t seem particularly mindful of the military manners they perform,” I uttered curiously. We walked to our tents, the small puddles of rain knocking against our boots.

“...I’ve grown accustomed to such spectacles,” my male elf said, his eyes peering far off into the distance. Aesteal touched his shoulder, but he didn’t seem to notice. Instead, I watched his face scrunch up in vile irritation until he finally shook his head. I wondered if his unpleasant face had something to do with how he and Aesteal had ended up in their situation as slaves. A part of me wished to have my curiosity sated and ask him, but another reminded me that I’d no need to care if it didn’t impede the sails of my ship.

Well, that was how it started out anyway. I’d grown used to Maeloson’s ways and though I’d never know him in the same way I’d know Aesteal, I still found myself enjoying his usual sternness aboard a ship of free-spirit shitheads. He reminded me a lot of Vaiyn, another of my ship that I’d lost to one of my stupid adventures. Bastard could hardly crack a damn smile and rarely joined in the song and merriment aboard the open sea. He always knew how best to divide my men when we were in unfamiliar territory, and kept my stubborn ass in line as well. The thrill of treasure clouded my brain many a time back then.

We made it back to the tents, Maeloson and Aesteal putting their bows and quivers down tiredly. “We’ll await your signal, Sir,” Aesteal said.

“Knowing him, it’ll be a loud one,” my mother replied.

“Aye, just like you taught me,” I said as I kissed Aesteal’s cold, wet lips. She quickly kissed me back before we pulled from each other. With pleasant wishes of luck and fortune set aside, our party of four swiftly turned into two.

My mother and I left the tent and spotted Alteria waiting for us. “I’m ready,” she said, throwing her cloak’s hood over her head.

Neither my mother nor I brought up Lady Knight’s current situation. For a Hæňgaramian, she was perhaps one of the few ones I could tolerate. Then again, I’d gotten to tolerate her quite a bit when she was aboard my ship for those few previous months.

Despite her confidence, I found myself chuckling. “Aye, trust me, you won’t be ready for what you’re about to do. I’ll need more of your trust now than ever before. And word of warning, don’t look down, you’ll only make it harder for me,” I warned her.

Alteria and my mother looked at me with great confusion. However, their eyes widened, stunned into silence, when I raised my foot and stepped into the air. Like an ascending staircase, I climbed up the water beneath my feet.

They weren’t the only spectators. The soldiers of the empire watched in fascination and surprise. The princess wasn’t long to follow when one of the soldiers just had to make her bear witness to my performance. For a lass who always seemed to exude a confident gaze, this was the first time I’d ever seen her face looking lost. I bet not many pirates would say that they stumped the Princess of Hæňgaram and lived to boast the story.

“By Legarrios, I sense no magic from within him. How is that possible?” someone asked, perhaps thinking that I was too far away to hear them.

“You lasses coming or not? The rain won’t last forever,” I said, which was technically a lie. I could make it last as long as I wished, but that wouldn’t do anyone any good. While it might make things difficult for the empire’s enemies, it would also make it hard for their allies.

“Are you fucking serious? You want us to walk into the fucking air?!” my mother asked, a mixture of anger and fear behind her eyes.

“Aye, that I do. Maeloson and Aesteal have already done it. I shall hold the both of you up. We’ll climb high into the sky and walk right over the town. I’ll then walk us down to some random rooftop where no soldier and no Sekria mage will be none the wiser. This be the easiest measure that guarantees success,” I responded. True, it wasn’t the only thing we could do, but anything else had a likelihood of fucking us all over if I tried it.

Even should I use a spell to fly us through the air, pass through the gates, or come from underneath, the mages of Sekria would know about it. Being as enchanted as they were to summon the fucking Void Burrower of all things, I had no doubt that they were specially attuned to the mystical realm. They’d sense us long before we got the gate. Alerting their Hæňgaramian allies to an enemy, the town would descend into chaos. While in the long run, it wouldn’t have them escape from me, it was far less a hassle than I was willing to put up with. There was probably a spell in Liara’s vast library of memories that could aid this problem, but if there were then it was hidden from me, as were most things. If the Liara of my time were alive, I bet she’d be smiling that irritating grin of amusement, knowing that I’d like to make use of her knowledge but was unable to. While I knew many of these spells which she’d conjured were beyond my capabilities as a mage right now, this incapability to gather the knowledge when it was so close to me was nigh infuriating at times.

“I’m not fucking doing this,” my mother said.

I frowned at my mother’s defiance. Yet, I remembered Delverhold. I remembered the folly of my anger. I’d still not gotten used to my breath being so short like this. “You once trusted me as the head of our family, mother. Grant your son that same trust now. The same trust you fell in love with,” I replied, my tone even and restrained despite the murmurs of disgust I heard from the soldiers. I’d not been one to take outright defiance well. Anyone on my old crew could have testified to that. Yet, I also remembered when I’d raised my voice to my mother, something I sure as hell wouldn’t have the balls to do had I not returned to this life. As Aesteal said, I wasn’t the most patient of men, something my mother didn’t need right now.

My mother looked back at me as I held my hand out. “Eric…” she warned, the fear quickly overtaking her anger.

“Should I drop you and you live feel free to blow my head clean off my shoulders,” I replied.

My mother grabbed my hand and stepped into the air. I gathered the water beneath her feet and she slowly climbed up with me until she was in my arms. “This has got to be the stupidest shit I’ve ever done. Walking on the fucking air,” she said while I laughed. Well, not the air exactly, but it was of the same premise.

Alteria took a cautious step and I gathered the water beneath her feet as well. Soon, she too joined us in the air, albeit with some hesitance. We then continued further and further up, the water our walking platforms as we walked higher and higher into the sky.

“You fucking let go of me, and I’m gonna kick your fucking balls out of your mouth, you hear me?!” my mother asked as she tightened her grip on my arm.

“Aye, that I do,” I said as I formed another platform for Alteria when she stumbled.

“We are… very high,” Lady Knight mentioned, looking down at the ground that seemed to be so far away. Even the town we were supposed to be infiltrating seemed small.

“Should we fall I wonder if even we’d survive,” I joked which seemed to be the wrong thing to do. My mother twisted my arm, keeping her eyes tightly closed. I wondered if she was fearful of heights to act this way. I’d not thought so since she was a former piratess. I figured having worked the ratlines and eagle’s nest, she wouldn’t have a concern like this. Granted, ratlines for ships were hardly this high. Were it not raining, I bet Hæňgaram would have quite the view from up here.

“Hope you enjoy it, it’ll be the last thing you see before I blow your eyes out!” my mother exclaimed. Wisely, I chose not to mention the quiver I heard in her voice.

Aside from a few slips and brief screams from my mother, we began our descent into the town of Mapik. I increased the fall of the rain to make it even harder to see us. Soldiers were stationed around two of the town’s watchtowers and even more guarded its gates and walls. Still, we made it inside and our feet touched solid ground.

“I hope that we never endeavor such a fate again,” Alteria said, a hand on her chest to steady her breathing. I was a bit surprised since her face hadn’t shown any concern until now.

My mother let go of my arm and exhaled tiredly. “Staying in bed was preferable to this. Thought I’d given this shit up years ago,” she commented, glaring at me while the fairmaids clapped happily in my pockets. Unlike my two travelers, they enjoyed the trip up and the view of the dark skies.

“I hadn’t dropped you. Should count for something,” I reminded her which made her spit on the ground.

“Which is why I haven’t punched your damn teeth in yet,” she returned.

I winked at my mother and, even in the darkness, I saw the faint blush on her face.

Adjusting ourselves, we walked into the streets, careful to not draw attention to ourselves. Even in the rain, soldiers patrolled nearly every corner. A few had their eyes turned our way, but we kept moving. It helped that we weren’t the only ones in the street, but we’d rather not push our luck.

“So where are these fuckers?” my mother asked quietly.

“Over there, I can sense their shifting mana inside this inn. Though I believe it would be prudent if we reside somewhere else. We shouldn’t run the risk of making new entries at the same inn,” Alteria answered.

My mother and I offered no disagreement so we passed by the inn where the traitors to Hæňgaram and the summoners of Sekria stayed at. We turned down a couple of corners and found a cheaper, more rundown inn. We rented a room, paying a few silvers for them. We were expecting to rent two rooms, one for me and the other for my mother and Alteria. However, it seemed that wasn’t the plan.

“I’ll stay with you. We need to talk anyway,” my mother said almost in a hushed whisper. I looked at her, but she had not the strength to look back at me. Alteria and I pay for rooms and soon I found myself alone with my mother in a small room with one bed. I grabbed a cheap flower vase on a desk and tossed out the flower, filling the vase with water and enchanting it. Nei and Lei slipped into it and immediately started bathing themselves.

In the meantime, I looked out the window and the storm outside. Bastards and bitches still move their feet here just like in Draegnar. The only difference was that there wasn’t a body bleeding in the middle of the street and people passed them by. They went this way and that, with no rhyme or reason to their own fates.

I heard the door slam shut behind me, my mother leaving to seas know where. Her footsteps retreated down the hallway and I found myself sucking my teeth. Nevertheless, I bothered not to get upset. There would be no point in it over something such as this. Instead, I focused my attention on our whole reason for even being in this fucking town. I separated my spirit from the rest of my body, hoping there’d not be an arrow to fire through me this time.

Leaving my body behind, I flew out through the window and arrived at the building where the rats had scurried off to. Entering the inn wasn’t difficult, and making it past their cheap wards and barriers was even easier. I found most of them huddled beneath the inn. It was a shame I couldn’t bring Aesteal along. For all the shit that seemed to be fucking with her country, I bet even sure would have enjoyed the screaming and anger rolling through their faces. They fired off explanations for the sudden trouble they’d been having, with the few men and women of the fleet I’d destroyed ripping the ears off the Hæňgaram Empire’s traitors with how their fleet had been decimated so severely.

Of course, that got started into the rumors of the ‘Water Mage of Hæňgaram.’ As a pirate, I lived for the glory of my deeds. It was a shame I had to silently revel in their frustration. Confusion and explanations became their native tongue, firing off reasons as to why the magic barrier hadn’t stopped my ‘spells’, or why mana-draining, magic restriction, or anything else that would make a mage pull out a gun and shoot himself in the head had not prevailed before me. I resisted the urge to laugh when one of them suggested that Hæňgaram might have employed me in their service, but the Empire’s traitors were quick to dismiss it.

“No matter how many we kill, towns we raze, or cities we take, no Hæňgaramian would dare make a deal with pirates. Only a dreaded fate awaits the one who embarks on such a path,” one said. Unfortunately, that only seemed to make the rest of them even angrier. Like children, they devolved into pointing blame at others before one mutt sorted out the rest of the pack.

“Enough!” he shouted, silencing them all with a heavy burst of mana thick enough to crack the walls. Not particularly impressive by mine or Liara’s standards, but for a lot like this he might as well have been a monster.

“The operation has failed and we must now move on. It doesn’t help that we were spotted by the fucking princess of the empire. We’ve also lost a great deal of mana in the Nuluk siege, which hadn’t even lasted a day! We shall lie low for a few days to make sure we weren’t followed. No soldier has reported anyone or anything entering through the gates of the city and lower tunnels show neither sign of usage nor mana residue. I’ve also spread my mana into the air. Nothing’s flown overhead. We shall rest and recuperate. This has been the sixth team to be assaulted. We must face facts that we’ve somehow been spotted. Do not act surprised. We couldn’t have remained hidden forever. We shall simply move on to the next phase. I don’t believe I need to inform you of what that is, do I?” he asked.

“No,” they responded.

I continued to stay for a moment longer, but nothing seemed to important. I flew back to my body and opened my eyes, a pleasant smirk appearing on my face.

As the group discussed, nothing happened for about three days. I’d told Alteria what was said, and I then relayed my words to Aesteal, who in turn supplied the information to the loyal princess of the empire. Unfortunately, I’d had to stop the rainstorm at some point to allow them to go outside. As expected, they remained as loyal citizens, not stirring up a single bit of trouble. Props to the rats, they knew how to suck up to the Hæňgaramian forces that were commanded to the town, saluting and cheering words of encouragement for their service.

Despite myself, I found myself growing angry in place of the Hæňgaramians. If there was one thing a pirate and an empire soldier could detest, it was the poisoned blade of a traitor to the back.

Night had fallen once again over the town of Mapik. I opened my eyes as Alteria sighed. “Any changes?” she asked.

“If there were, we’d be scrambling by now. Aye, no such luck. Your princess might have spooked the bastards more than we thought. Still, I see it in their leader’s eyes. He’ll make his fucking move. Best you be prepared for another battle,” I said.

“I have been prepared since I first made a deal with you. I shall take over the watch tonight. May you get some rest,” Lady Knight said as she closed the door.

I watched her go before I leaned forward and released a tired sigh. Just then, the door opened and I noticed my mother come through with two wooden trays with juicy delectables on them. Her eyes locked with mine until she handed me my tray. She then took a seat on the bed and began eating. I ate as well, the distant sounds of the Nei and Lei splashing in the bowl moving through the air.

My teeth gnaw at the hard bread on my blade, offset by the tender tree elk meat and wild berries. It’s all fucking cold and runny, but not uneatable. Meanwhile, the silence persists between my mother and I. Though we shared the same bed, we might as well be sailing two different ships. She slept with her back to me and mine to her. It reminded me of our life back on Draegnar. She took the bed and I took the hammock, utterly despised with ourselves and each other.

At some point, I thought Aesteal to be wrong. My mother and I were of Draegnar. We would always be of its bloody streets, and shit morals. Bastards and bitches like us didn’t fucking talk out their problems, we shoot it dead over and over again. Yet, I also knew that not many Draegnarians would bother helping Hæňgaramians or falling in love with elves either.

My thoughts were immediately interrupted when I heard a loud thud of something crashing into the wall. I turned my head to see it was my mother’s plate along with the rest of the food prepared for her on the floor. Even Nei and Lei had stopped their play disturbed by the noises they heard.

I turned around and saw my mother with her head in her hands. “I thought I knew my father, your damn grandsire. A damn good whaler, with a strong arm for a spear. The bastard liked to drink in the days and fuck the whores at night. He was a damn asshole, but I thought I knew him well enough to not have any surprises. Turns out I didn’t know him enough when he disappeared one day, leaving for some gods damned adventurer and never returned,” she said, pausing almost as if to steady herself.

“I thought I knew your father too. A bastard through and through with a face that couldn’t do naught but talk shit. Thought I knew him when I had to endure the hell outta you when I found out. Turns out, I didn’t know him well enough either. Found myself sucking the damn cocks of any man willing to pay a visit, with a fucking illness eating from the inside out, and a stubborn as Draegnar steel son with no talent in anything. Nothing on his body but rags, and nothing in his hand but a dull blade taped to some wood. Whatever the Fates or the Spirits cursed me with, it was too heavy for me to fucking bear,” she continued onward.

“And now, the golden treasure to fucking rule them all, I thought I knew my son. As it turns out, I sure as hell didn’t know him either. Damn boy’s already been a pirate captain for almost as long as I’ve been alive. He controls the sea and he sails for distant islands once ruled by powerful mages and makes alliances with soldiers of nations known for their hatred of pirates,” she chuckled, sounding more like a grunt than anything else.

Nevertheless, she looked at me, eyes searching for answers. “Turns out I didn’t know you either. So when’s the time that you leave me too? Pick me up, set me right, just to knock me down on my ass again. Tell me, Eric, is my life some fucking game for you to enjoy, then just throw away when you’re bored? Tell me it- Mmmmmmmnph!”

I cut my mother off, claiming her lips as she stares at me in shock. She grabs my shoulders, trying to push me away. “E-Eric, you- nnnnnnngh!”

Though she tries to push me away, I continue to hold her close to me. It wasn’t long before her hands stopped resisting me, instead gripping the sleeves of my undershirt eagerly. We savored each other’s lips hungrily. My hands stiffened when I felt the moisture from her eyes touch them. There was only one other time I’d known my mother to be in such a state of emotional vulnerability. I bet her ass firmly remembered it as well.

That told me just how much she had agonized over this matter. My thumb on her cheek, I caressed her in a manner that no ordinary son would dare touch his mother. Just one stroke of my fingers made her face shiver and her skin hot.

“E-Eric, wait- nnnnnmmph! Nhnaaaaah!” My mother panted, but I would not wait. I would not allow her to wait any longer either. I dropped my hand from her face and trapped her in a tight embrace, crushing her tits against my chest. Her hands rubbed my shoulder while my finger admired her beautiful, sensual curves. It was this body that made this young body of mine into that of a man. It was my mother who’d accepted everything that I could give. I would in turn do the same for her.

My mother panted, each kissing trembling our lips. Our tongues danced around until I slowly pushed her back. She offered me no resistance. My form loomed over hers, but our kiss never broke. She leaned back on the bed while I rested over her. I pulled away from her and she opened her eyes to me, her auburn hair sprawled out over the bed.

“I be Eric Drakclaw,” I said to her breathlessly. She frowned at me, but I continued onward.

“I be the same little bastard who worked in Ellen’s tavern to pay for your medicine. I be the same bastard who jumped across the rooftops from the other shitheads when you gave me my first pickpocket lesson. I be the same Eric Drakclaw… who hadn’t released how you suffered in that shithole we called home. However, I shall not see the gravestone of my mother a second time. If she is to pass away, it shall be with a great smile and eyes filled with the adventure her son has promised. I be the same bastard who loved his mother in his first life, and fell in love with her in his second,” I said as I held up my hand and waved a load of magic in the air.

My mother silently watched as an ancient rune appeared between the both of us. It then grew smaller until it took up residence in my salt-scourged heart. “By the ancient runes of Lakshi, if I should forsake my mother and prove myself unworthy, I shall allow my soul to be tormented in the Ashen Flames until the end of the ages. So Eric Drakclaw, swears by the spirits above and the gods below. So swears The Son of Poseidon,” I proclaim much to my mother’s shock.

Before she could speak, a brief flash of thunder and lightning moved through the ski, signifying the oath I’d just made. When it subsided, I looked down at my mother and she was pissed.

“You fucking idiot! Do you not know what you’ve done?!” She asked, but I quelled her rage with my next words.

“I’ve let you know your son. The soul of a bastard be a small price to pay. Aye, especially for you,” I said as I leaned down and kissed her again.

“Nnnnnnngh! Yo… wait a min-” my mother groaned. Her face scrunched up, her words disappearing as I wrestled her tongue with mine. After a while, she gave up. My mother threw her arms around my neck and pulled me in deeper into her mouth.

We kissed on the bed, exploring the soaking depths of each other’s mouths. One of my mother’s hands rubbed the side of my rough cheek. “Hnnaaaaah! NNnnnngh! Mmmmmmm!” our room came alive with the sounds of our incestuous pleasure. A man and a woman, son and mother, joined together on one bed.

When we parted for air again, my mother sighed blissfully. “Tell me, how many sluts have you kissed since you became a pirate?” she asked.

I looked down at her and smirked. “Before or after you?” I asked.

“Are you fucking calling me a slut?” she questioned with a glint of dangerous playfulness.

I was quick to respond. “Aye, mine. And only mine!” I responded as I kissed her again. I could have been wrong, but I thought I heard my mother swoon after that kiss.

“You’re such a cocky shit sometimes,” she replied as she kissed me back briefly. She then grabbed my shirt and pulled it over my head, tossing it away without much care.

My lips curved while she traced her fingers over my broad chest. “Just like you know me to be,” I answered and she slowly nodded, affirming what we both already knew.

My mother fell into silence for a moment before she spoke again. “Before,” she finally said, lustful curiosity found deep within her eyes.

“Plenty,” I said truthfully. “Though most of them don’t measure up to you,”

My mother then stopped tracing my chest and snorted. “Good. No one should know you better than me,” she said as her eyes peered down at my obvious erection. It was obvious to me as well from the way it pushed against my pants. I saw the hunger in my mother’s eyes, her nipples pressing out against her shirt. A bite of her lip, she swallowed her desire down her throat.

“Hurry up and get that cock out. I think I’m owed it after having to hear you and the others go at it!”

Not one to deny her, I leaned up and swiftly discarded my pants. My mother glanced down at my hardened manhood. She rolled over on her stomach and looked at it. “You gotta be pretty fucked up to get this hard for your mother. Then again, I gotta be pretty fucked up too. Gotta resist everything to keep from riding this thing as hard as I can,” she said before she gently grabbed a hold of my shaft.

My body blew up with lust and I groaned into the air. I missed my mother’s soft fingers and her warm touch. She stroked me up and down. “Mmmmm, yeah. I miss this cock and these nuts filled up with cum,” she said as she continued to stroke me, the thundering roars of pleasure making my body shake.

Then, she engulfed my shaft, almost instantly pressing her nose to my pelvis. The warm, sleek insides of her mouth seemed different from what I had grown used to her. Her mouth felt like a warm cave at the bottom of the seabed, wrapping around the core of my being with her tongue sliding up and down the length of her mouth. She bobbed her head, blowing me with great vigor.

“Nnnnnngh! Shit!” I moan into the air, letting her know just how much I appreciated her efforts and her ministrations. The gurgling noises of her sucking also fueled me, my hips becoming a slave to her workings. Try as I might, it seemed almost instinctual that I rock my hips, driving my cock further and further into her waiting mouth. One of her hands on my hips, the other on my balls, my mother swirled her tongue, snaking through the base and crown of my shaft. I felt the back of her throat on more than one occasion while she glided her fingers between my two sacs.

“Nnnnnngh! Yessshhhhhh! Nnngh! Hnnngh! Hguuugh!” My mother gagged over and over, ripping of her pants down and rubbing her cunt through her underwear. All the sensations she felt I did as well.

It didn’t take long before I felt the reaches of my first orgasm begin to come upon me. However, it was not between my mother’s lips that I wanted my cock to fire. Painstakingly, I slowed my hips and pulled my cock out of her mouth. Her mouth was littered with spit and slobber. Her hair was an utter mess, but her eyes shined with the glow of ecstasy and rapture behind them.

When she looked at me, it seemed that I didn’t need to speak a word. Neither did she. She touched my cheek once more until she leaned back. Her head laid out on the mattress, she lifted her long, beautifully-sculpted legs and grabbed the folds of her panties. In one swift move, she took them off and tossed them away. Her body exploded with lustful energy and that took the form of the copious amounts of her juices flowing down to the sheets of the bed.

“You gonna keep looking, or are you gonna bury that damn cock inside me? Inside your mother?” she asked, spreading her legs apart clearly inviting me to answer her question quickly.

Aye, I would do that. However, I reined myself in. I gave her my answer when I lay over her. Her confidence slowly faded when I gazed at her with great seriousness. I lined my cock with her cunt and pushed into her slowly. I let her feel every inch of my manhood pierce through her womanly chamber. Every bump and curve became known to my length. Just like our first time, I had no desire to rush. Instead, I watched her close her eyes and sigh blissfully. Her pussy clenched me hard and I recognized it as her having a fast orgasm of her own.

“Hnnnnnnnnngh! Oh, fuck! Your cock feels so good!” she hummed as I continued until there was nothing left to push into her. We stayed like that for a moment, reveling in our passion. I kissed her and she returned it. Her arms wrapped around my neck and her legs around my waist, trapping me inside her.

“I love you too. I fucking love you too, you piece of shit. Fucking dammit it all to hell, I love you!” my mother whispered into my ears. I pulled my hips back and pushed them in, burying my cock deep into her body. Every edge and vein seemed like a seductive massage of her sleek insides.

“Nnnnnnnnnnnnngh! OH fuck! Yesssssssssss! F-Fuck me! Oooooooooooh gods, fuck me!” my mother exclaimed, matching my movements with her own. We bucked our hips together, unaware of anything else aside from the pounding of our flesh. My hips slapped against her own, and my hands grasped at her breasts. Her nipples jutted out between my fingers, the bed shaking between the two of us.

I groaned in ecstasy. Leah, my Beloved, couldn’t compare to the pleasures I felt from my mother. It was as if her cunt were designed specifically for me, taking my shape and accommodating my girth. As Aesteal said, my mother received me and my hips moved even faster. I pistoned in and out, her kisses to my cheek fueling me. Her hands roamed my back, her nails clawing me, pulling me into her being.

We kissed again, her pussy devouring every inch of me. My mind was frayed by her lust and her passions. All of them driving and fueling my body to please her, to answer every question she had regarding how I’d come to care about her. “You feel so good. Better than gold and better than any treasure,” I wailed.

She answered my compliment by massaging my cock with her pussy even more. “Then give me what I want. Give me every last drop of cum inside your balls. Cum inside me,” she said.

Between her earlier movements and her words now, I stood no chance. Before I could even prepare, my cock released the pent-up ropes of my seed into her waiting cunt. Her body shivered, but she breathed easily.

Unwrapping her legs, she laid them on the bed before she stilled when my cock got hard inside her. We didn’t speak, instead, we started up again. This time, my mother laid on top of me, bouncing her hips and fucking me into the mattress. “Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! Fuck! FUCK! YESSSSSSSSS! W-Why does it hit every spot perfectly? Gnnnnnngh! Uugh… haaaaa… ooooooooh! Do you like it? Seeing your mother ride your cock like a tavern slut?” she asked, leaning back with her hands on my legs. I got a wonderful view of our fucking. She vigorously rubbed her clit while I inhaled sharply, the lust threatening to overtake me.

“Tavern wenches wish they could ride a cock like you can,” I replied.

We shifted into another position. With her on her hands and knees, I plowed into her body again. “Mmmmmmmmngh! Fuck yes! S-Such a strong cock! God, I’ve missed this!” she uttered until I pulled her up, I kissed her and mauled her chest with my hands. Her fingers ran through my hair while she unashamedly drove our hips to meet each other. I pinched her tips while my fingers flew into her mouth. Her tongue licked them viciously.

My cock lurched within her again. Her cunt squeezed me like a death grip hug. “Give it to me. Give it all… to me! Fuck all of your cum into me!” she panted. I did just that. I came a second time, releasing a heavy load of spunk into her. The cum just seemed to fly out without any restraint, painting her walls and slathering them with my scent. My orgasm ignited her own and she trembled in my arms.

The times went by, but our lust didn’t disperse. In fact, I knew we were starting to affect the rest of the building. My ears picked up on several moans outside our door, but we couldn’t stop. In fact, we had no desire to. I stood on the edge of the bed, my tongue sailing over my mother’s long legs that she held in the air. Each slap of my hips seemed to reinvigorate me.

“Haaaa… ooooooooh… nnnnhgghhaaaaaa… Oh, fuck!” My mother hissed, biting her finger while my tongue sailed up and down each leg. Her snatch choked my mast of flesh and she roared like the open sea. My eyes flew into the back of my head before I too felt the call of my basest instincts once again, to breed the willing female in front of me.

My mother and I fucked and fucked where we could around the room before we finally made it back to the bed. Right where we began, it was a slow pace. My mother’s face was racked with sweat but still, she refused to not accept me. The sheets were ruined by our combined fluids. I bet a maid could get horny just from smelling the stuff.

My mother looked at me and I stared at her. The war of the Empire seemed so far away from either of our thoughts as I plunged into her. Her hands rubbed my arms as we savored this moment. “Look at me when you cum this time. It’s not every day I get to see the pleasure biting into your skin like a venomous snake,” she joked to which I gave a short laugh.

“It could be every day,” I returned.

“Yeah, that’s not happening,” she answered back.

Her body received me until the last of my thrusts. My cock hardened and I felt the cum swim up its length, ready for the final leg of its journey. My mother knew it too and I stared at her for as long as I could. When she touched my face, that was all it took for me to grit my teeth and bury my cock into her. I release the last wave of my cum into her body, some of it spilling out before long.

When I opened my eyes again, I was graced with the most blissful smile on her face. Finally, I slipped off and landed on my back. As I closed my eyes, I heard the satisfied hums of my mother. I then felt the wet smack of her lips on my cheek. When I looked at her, she already had her back to me. Amused, I pulled her in my arms, swirling some water from a cup and into the candles lighting the room.

“Just tell me this,” my mother said slowly, still not facing me. “Did I… get to see you become the captain of your own ship before?”

I continued to hold her, memories resurfacing that I’d wished stayed dead. “No, you did not,” I answered truthfully worried how she might take this, especially after how good all of this seemed.

“Then I’ll count my shit luck that I got to see, and experience, it this time.”

I didn’t even get to answer before she fell asleep. I shook my head, continually in love with her stubbornness as I drifted off as well.