《The Iron Teeth: A Goblin's Tale》


 Prologue: The Shattering of Ways

    Prologue: The Shattering of Ways


    Blood poured from the mans wounds onto the cold ground beneath him. He knew he was dying and beyond help now. He choked and gasped as bitter blood clogged his throat but he fought to hold still and at least die with dignity. In hisst moments, and in front of all these witnesses, he wasnt going to go out thrashing around like a fish out water. Burn that!


    He refused to have regrets, even though he had never gotten what hed wanted out of life. He had done the best he could and died for what hed believed in! His would be thestugh anyway.


    He could still feel the inhuman eyes that watched and zed with hate. The dying man tried to chuckle but all that came out was a weak gurgling cough. The fools had no idea what theyd unleashed! They couldnt see how the world had changed and turned against them.


    As the mans vision grew dark, scenes from his past began to y out before him. Hisst breath rattled through his teeth and he couldnt help but think back to how it had all began


    He remembered a great grey drake looming over the rubble of doomed Coroulis amidst the falling snow. The terrible monster flicked its tail out and smashed an attacking guard. Frozen chunks of meat were thrown into the air as the man shattered. The crimson broken pieces fell to the ground and rolled through the snow. The roar of the beast echoed through the city and his home was forever lost...


    He remembered choosing to live his life out in the Deep Green. The forests of the North contained seemingly endless terrors and monsters but also humbling beauty. There, hed taken up arms for pride and empty vengeance but then continued fighting just because it was all hed known. His friends had fallen one by one until he was all alone, and then he had even lost her...


    He remembered a nervous green face looking up at him. It was dirty and ugly but for some reason it mattered to him. Instinctively, he clung to the memory for a stubborn second but then it slipped away with the rest and there was only darkness...

 The Road North 1

    The Road North 1


    The small captive awoke to the rattling of his cage. The sudden noise banished all memory of any dreams he may have been having. Sometime during his sleep, the ropes tying down his cage had be loose and the cage had started bouncing around in the wagon.


    The noise hurt his ears. They twitched as he brought up his fingers to try and plug them. It didn''t help much. He wasn''t used to such sounds, especially constantly for days.


    He really wished he had never awoken. He wouldn''t be able to get back to sleep now.


    A hiss of annoyance slipped past his lips as he peered out from under the ragged tarp that failed to properly cover his wooden cage. The tarp was brown and worm-eaten so it didn''t shield him from the harsh light outside. It also smelled terrible, but he was used to worse.


    He blinked to try and see past the bright light that blinded him and get a look at the scenery. There were lots of trees.


    More trees than he had thought could possibly exist in all the world. He hadn''t seen a lot of trees when he had lived in the city, only a few when he had left the shelter of the tunnels and headed out under the night sky.


    His earliest memories were of being taught obedience by his masters and of them sending him down into the dark below ces. There, he and his tribe had hunted the depths for rats and been sent to unclog tunnels and pipes. He had gone into tight ces too small for men and thene back out for the promise of tasty rewards. Rat meat got old after a while.


    Under the cover of darkness, while the masters slept, his tribe had squeezed through old broken bricks and rusted grates to creep around the city. There they had scrounged for food among the refuse, only to slink back as dawn turned night to day.


    Excitement came from fighting with his tribesman, dogs, or the asional unusuallyrge rat. The bigger the rat the better it tasted, but thergest ones were mean fighters with nasty teeth.


    Sometimes, they even formed packs so his tribe would have to form a war party! He still remembered the Great War of the One Eyed Rat and the feast that had followed is tribes victory! Hed been young then but had yed a crucial part; hed distracted several particrly dangerous rats by running away.


    However, one day everything had changed. The masters had summoned his tribe and once hed arrived they had singled him out. Then, he had been ced into a cage and given water that made him feel drowsy. A secondter, hed fallen on his face and everything had gone ck.


    A great fiery hand had pulled him from darkness. Shadows had danced around him as he burned and promised him new treats and pleasures beyond anything he had ever known. He hadn''t had a dream like that since hed eaten that one purple mushroom.


    As he slept he had been hauled out into the daylight and ced in a cage on a wagon. Much to his dismay he had groggily woken upjust as the cart had rolled through the streets and out the city gates.


    Still drowsy from his dream, he had whimpered in fright. He had blinked and tried to shield his stinging eyes from the light as he had cowered in the corner of his cage.


    He had remained quiet and obedient though. He knew better than toin or draw attention to himself, for the masters would silence him swiftly.


    Soon, his wagon had joined many others and a horde of men. Together, they had set out from the city and into the never ending green sea of trees.


    Were the men moving to a different city, or perhaps they were starting a new one? Would they need him to hunt and clean the dark ces below? He didn''t know; he could only sit in his cage and wait.


    Hed ended up waiting a really long time! The wagons had rolled over the dirt road sending dusty clouds into the air for what seemed like days beyond count.


    Not that he could count very high, of course. Still, it was more days than he had fingers and toes. He supposed he could have simply started the count over again but he had forgotten the number anyway. The point was that he was very bored.


    It wouldnt have been so bad but the wagons were pulled by horses. Their smell and the smell of their shit, which they simply dropped on the road as they walked, was foul and annoying. His shit smelled much better.


    Anyway, he hated horses and from his brief experience with them he was pretty sure they hated him right back. They probably tasted horrible as well, so what good were they? He cursed them under his breath when he grew particrly bored, which was practically all the time.


    Ugly horses. Stupid horses. Smelly horses, he muttered.


    For so many days he had simply sat in his cage, slept, and gazed out at the never ending stands of green trees. For awhile he pretended the tarp was a solid stone roof that protected him from the bright emptiness above.


    Thisretreat into denial was only broken when he was fed, or when he excreted over the side of the wagon and he was forced to take in the blinding light of the sun. Well, sometimes he excreted with his eyes closed but most the time he was blinded by the sun.


    He wanted to go home; he yearned for the freedom of the dark sewers and tunnels! His sore body needed to move and stretch more than his small cage allowed. He itched from inactivity. Well, he itched pretty much constantly but he was pretty sure it was worse now. He med the horses.


    Ugly horses. Stupid horses. Smelly horses, he muttered.


    The sound of footsteps approaching reached his ear and he instinctively withdrew into what little shadows his wooden cage contained. However, much to his relief the man walked by without stopping. Still huddled in his corner, he tried once again to get back to sleep.


    asionally, he heard the low deep voices of the men as they spoke in theirnguage but try as he might he couldn''t really understand them. He knew more than a few of their words because the trainers had taught him them but the men here spoke very quickly and used many words he didn''t know.


    His people''s ownnguage seemed much simpler. The tongue of these men seemed to contain endless sounds. It seemed pointlesslyplex to him. The men must spend much of their lives naming things and that seemed like a weird way to spend time.


    They would be much happier if they spent more of their time hunting for tasty things instead, and happier men would probably hit him less. That would be better for everyone, so it was too bad they were too stupid to think of it. Not everyone could be as smart as him.


    As he tried to rx and ignore the cages irritating moving and creaking, he heard the sound of two men talking. Their tone of voice piqued his interest so he peered out and tried to spot them.


    One of the men was tall and thin while the other was fat. As they argued they grew louder and the agitation in their voices that had snagged his attention grew more pronounced. They seemed very worried to him.


    Their voices were unnecessarily loud for two people so close together and they held themselves very stiffly, like prey ready to flee at any moment. Also, they kept looking over their shoulders off into the distance like they expected something to appear. It was very prey-like indeed.


    He wondered what they were so worried about. Not that it really mattered to him; he was stuck in this cage until they let him out. Like everything else in the wagons, they were taking him somewhere and he was unlikely to get out until they got there.


    He had no idea where they were going but it would undoubtedly have less trees, or so he hoped anyway. It would also hopefully have less horses, as in none what so ever.


    Ugly horses. Stupid horses. Smelly horses, he muttered to himself.


    Maybe the thing the men were so worried about would be exciting! Anything would be better than endless days of sitting in this cage, except beatings, or no tasty things, or being bitten by dogs, being bitten by horses, or... lots of stuff. Still the cage was very very bad.


    Suddenly the wagon jolted to a stop. At first he thought nothing of it; the wagons stopped every night and several other times as well. However, now he heard many more agitated human voices and the sound of people rushing around. That wasnt normal.


    Arge man in bulky shiny clothing that marked him as a warrior ran by while frantically pulling his helmet on. Oh, the warriors among the men were getting ready for a fight! He wished he had a metal hat like that. It was so shiny!


    He wondered what the men were going to fight. What sort of beasts preyed on humans out here among the endless trees and dusty roads? He hoped whatever it was would be too busy chasing down all the men running around to get to him. Maybe it would even eat the horses!


    Suddenly, his train of thought was broken by a loud buzzing. It was swiftly followed by a chorus of human screams and war cries, and then loud thumping noises exploded all around him.


    Startled, he jumped into the air and promptly smashed his head against the top of the cage. He yelped in pain, fell over, and curled up into a defensive ball.


    Another wave of sound washed over him and he tensed in surprise. He got up and strained to see what was going on but he couldn''t get a good view. He shook and rocked the cage but he couldn''t get the right angle. Either the other cargo in the wagon or the horse pulling it always blocked his view. Stupid horse, it was probably doing it on purpose.


    Several minutes went by as he listened to the crash of struggling and the roar of human screaming. Metal met metal and metal met flesh.


    Soon, he realized that some of the noises were cries of triumph and others were cries of pain and despair. This confused him for a moment before he realized the obvious conclusion. The men were fighting other men.


    He was more than a little disappointed he wouldn''t get to see a giant man-eating green cat or something. The animals of the forest were all green right? Anyway, it would have been very exciting to see it chase all the men around like mice.


    An explosion ripped through the besieged caravan, quickly followed by a gust of hot wind. The wagon shuddered and the tarp on his cage above him whipped around wildly. He flinched in shock. He had no idea what had just happened, but whatever it was had seemed super important and exciting. He smiled happily to himself; maybe it would happen again!


    That was when he noticed he could now see what was happening. The shaking of the cart had cleared his field of view.


    Just as he had guessed, men were fighting each other up ahead. Small groups of warriors from the caravan in their shiny mail were fighting men in mismatched rough looking clothes. The guards fought back to back as they tried to protect themselves from the swarms of men attacking them.


    In the middle of the fighting the burning bodies of several of the attackers were littered around a crater. In front of the crater stood a tall man in purple robes who held a long staff in his hands. As the captive watched, a flight of arrows shot towards the purple man from across the battlefield.


    Calmly, the man raised a jeweled amulet and a wave of rippling air sprung into existence. The invisible force knocked the arrows harmlessly aside. The unharmed man then let the amulet fall back against his chest and aimed the end of his staff towards the nearest clump of attackers.


    Somebody kill that mage now! a furious voice yelled as several men tried to rush him.


    Just as several of the men closed on him, the mage raised another amulet. This time there was no shy disy. All the men around the mage simply copsed andy unmoving on the ground. Then, the mage aimed his staff again, and an arrow took him in the back.


    Now it was the mages turn to stagger and fall. As he struggled to pull himself back to his feet one of the attackers ran up and bashed him in the back of the head with a heavy club.


    Another cheer broke out across the battlefield, but this time it was the attackers who were rejoicing. The clumps of caravan guards began to be overwhelmed by their more numerous opponents.


    Then, with the sound of pounding hooves on hard packed dirt the fat man from earlier rode by the captive''s cage. The watcher only gotabrief look at him, but the man was trembling and red faced as he yelled and kicked his horse in order to urge it to ever faster speeds.


    The watcher greatly approved of kicking horses. His estimate of the fat man''s intelligence went up slightly.


    The horse carried its rider down the road at a mad speed, kicking up a dust cloud as it went. Soon, they disappeared from sight.


    Briefly, the observer wondered if the man would get away. However, it seemed somehow wrong to him that the only one to escape would be fat. Shouldn''t he be the slowest?


    Well, maybe the horse would get tired of the man''s fat ass and throw him to his death. You couldn''t trust horses after all. Yes, that was what would probably happen.


    There was the sound heavy footsteps and then two more humans from the wagons ran by. There was a tall one and a shorter one with long hair. He thought the shorter onewas a woman.


    As he watched, several lightning fast objects buzzed by and mmed into them. They copsed and cried out in pain as a dirty looking human in rough clothes he hadn''t seen before ran over to them.


    Mercy please, I beg you, the taller one implored the new arrival.


    The shorter human just cried and cradled her shoulder where she had been shot with an arrow. The dirty man justughed as he stabbed the tall one in the back with his sword. The swordsman twisted the de and his victim gasped before going limp. A pool of blood began expanding around the downed man.


    The watcher sniffed and smelled the fear and blood in the air. It was such delicious blood and delightful fear. It was so weird that it came from men who had been his masters. In the back of his mind he had considered them invincible.


    Without warning thehorses whinnied in fright and shook the wagon, sending him bowling over into the side of the cage where he smacked his nose against the bars. He hissed in pain and his eyes started to water.


    From where he had been thrown, he saw the dirty man quickly begin going through his victim''s'' clothing. He seemed to be looking for things to take as trophies.


    The caged watcher wished he could do the same. He would never harm a master, that was unthinkable, but now that they were dead they wouldnt be needing their stuff! They probably had many shiny and tasty things on them. Maybe he could get a shiny hat. That would make this the best day ever!


    The short woman gave a cry of despair and sobbed. The swordsman then turned to her. He grabbed her hair and pulled her to her feet. She screamed in pain but managed to stand. Blood from her wound dripped down her long in dress.


    Stop your moaning woman. A little wound like that won''t kill you any time soon. Nowe with me. The boss may want all the women and children rounded up, but it''s up to me what happens to you in the meantime, he told her as he dragged her back the way he hade.


    The woman sobbed in pain but stopped when the dirty man pped her across the face. The woman then cringed and trembled but stopped screaming. Soon, the swordsman had marched her out of sight.


    The watcher had never seen men act so much like his people. It surprised him a little. They usuallybehaved so differently from his tribe. They were much more cooperative and controlled, with far less random outbreaks of violence. Also, they had a lot more clothes.


    Maybe they weren''t so different after all, though. The thought intrigued the watcher.


    By this time the screams and sounds of battle had mostly ended. He had grown bored again but he couldn''t help but be worried about what was going to happen to him now. Thebination of boredom and anxiety was ufortable, and the smell of blood didn''t help.


    He began to sweat and itch so he started to scratch himself. After a few moments of pointless self-harm he stopped as he heard more footsteps and voices.


    He peeked out but they were approaching from a blind angle he couldn''t see again. Stupid horse, why couldn''t the dirty man have killed the horse? The world was greatly improved by every dead horse.


    Suddenly, the tarp was ripped off his cage. The wide eyed watcher lookedup to seetwo rough looking men staring down at him in surprise.


    One was tall and older looking with grey hair and a long green cloak. His brown eyes had more than a few lines under them. The second man was shorter, had no hair on his head, and wore a dirty brown shirt.


    Shit, it''s a goblin, the bald man said as his pale human face scrunched up into a look of disbelief. Why the fuck did they have a goblin?

 The Road North 2

    The Road North 2


    That''s a good question, the older one replied.


    Ah, who cares let''s just kill it, the shorter one said as he drew his dagger.


    The goblin felt a sh of panic, and his small eyes went wide in fear. Immediately he whimpered and started to grovel to show his submission to the giants before him. This always worked on humans, well almost always...


    Wait a second. This is interesting, the other said with a raised hand.


    He peered into the cage and looked the goblin over. I wonder... he mused to himself before looking it directly in the eyes.


    Sit, hemanded.


    The goblin sat down instantly then smiled up at the men hopefully. Orders were good; they meant the men might consider sparing him.


    He really didn''t want to be stabbed by the ugly one. The taller man looked friendlier but the hairless one was still giving him an evil look. Clearly, he had to put more effort into his groveling.


    Yes master, I obey, he eximed in his best weak and harmless voice. From experience he knew it was impossible to suck up to his masters too much.


    What the hells, it talks? the bald man responded.


    The taller grey haired one shook his head. It was obvious he wasn''t impressed by the other man''s intelligence.


    It''s not wild, Buck. It''s trained, like a dog. They use them in some ces to do dirty work in mines and workshops, the older man exined condescendingly.


    Well, we don''t have any use for it and there are more than enough goblins around here. We don''t need freakish talking ones too. So, let''s just kill it already, Saeter, the shorter one suggested.


    The goblin felt a stab of fear as the bald man Buck once again voiced his intention to kill him. He didn''t want to die! There were so many tasty things he hadn''t had a chance to try yet.


    Luckily, the taller man named Saeter frowned at Buck in disagreement after he spoke.


    No, I might have a use for it. These things are supposed to have a good sense of smell and good dogs are hard to keep out here. They get eaten, Saeter told the other man.


    Me good smeller! Me no be eaten! the goblin interjected helpfully.


    He could do anything better than a stupid dog, and he had a lifetime full of experience in not being eaten. He had gotten pretty good at it.


    Buck gave the goblin a doubtful look but the goblin thought he saw Saeter smile slightly. The older man was obviously the one he needed to suck up to.


    What if the little freak runs off? Buck asked skeptically.


    Then like you just said this area has more than enough goblins already. One more won''t make any difference. Unless you think it''s going to talk us to death, Saeter answered with a hint of authority in his voice and bodynguage.


    Buck frowned a bit in response, but much to the goblin''s relief he was clearly backing down. Obviously, Saeter was the more dominant male, and much smarter as well since he saw the goblin''s worth.


    Whatever, if you want the bloody little thing I doubt anyone will care. Just keep it out of my way. I''ll fill the boss in on the actual useful stuff we found, Buck huffed before walking away.


    When he was gone Saeter turned to the goblin and got arge toothy smile of gratitude from the green midget in return.


    So do you have a name then, goblin? Saeter asked.


    It took the creature a few seconds to figure out what the man''s words meant, and then the question itself surprised him. Among the sewer goblins he was addressed by his position in the pack and the humans hadn''t ever felt the need to name their ves.


    No, master, he answered after a second of hesitation.


    He didn''t know where this was going. Saeter looked thoughtful for a second.


    Alright, from now on your name is... cknail, because your one toenail is darker than the rest. Do you understand? he asked.


    Me cknail, the goblin replied excitedly.


    It felt weird to have a name; something to call himself that was his own. He liked the feeling, though. He also liked that his new name described something that set him apart from other goblins, his dark nail. Not just any goblin could have his name. They couldn''t even beat him up and steal it!


    Now, if I let you out are you going to stay close to me and do as I say? Saeter asked the goblin sternly.


    cknail once again detected a hint of threat in his voice. Well that was normal in the masters. They were always angry at goblins for something. They should really stop leaving all their shiny and tasty things lying around if they didn''t want goblins to rescue them.


    You master, cknail gravelly replied to Saeter.


    He didn''t understand everything Saeter had just said but he understood enough. Besides calling humans master was always the right answer. Saeter grinned gruffly in response.


    You certainly get right to the point. Alright then, he said with a bit of humour as he moved over and begun to utch the cage.


    When it was open cknail took a few careful steps out before slowly stretching and then turning back to face his new master expectantly. It felt so good to get out of the cage. He just wished he was home and not in this strange ce.


    His first instinct was to make a run for it as soon as the mans back was turned. However, now cknail was stuck out here among all the unsettling trees and nasty looking men. Home was very far away and the goblin had no idea what sort of dangersy in wait for him among the trees, but he was sure there were lots!


    Thus, he nned on staying very close to this new non-hostile human named Saeter. He was big even for a human so it should be fairly safe close to him, and that was worth a few beatings.


    The top of the goblin''s head only reached slightly more than halfway up Saeter''s body. His green skinned body was shaped like that of a small stumpy person.


    He also had a bald head, two long pointy ears, and sharp nails on his hands and feet. His nose wasrge, long, and beak like. His eyes were small and squinty while his teeth were sharp and needle like.


    cknail thought of himself as quite the handsome creature but was pretty sure his masters thought otherwise. Saeter however did not seem surprised or repulsed by his appearance.


    Alright, let''s see how well trained you are. Go, cknail, Sater said forcefully while pointing to a spot on the ground a dozen feet from him.


    The goblin quickly rushed over to stand on that spot and then turned to smile proudly at his master. Too easy, this was amand he had mastered long ago!


    Stay, Saetermanded next as he ced a piece of dried meat on the ground in front of himself.


    The scent of the meat reminded cknail that he hadn''t eaten since that morning and that the men of the wagons hadn''t been feeding him all that much anyway. He liked gruel as much as the next goblin but it got old after the first few weeks. Now he wanted something different.


    However, he ignored the rumble in his tummy and didn''t move. He was far too clever for that. He knew this was a trick. He had figured it out in the city after only five beatings! Truly, he was a genius among goblins.


    Good goblin, nowe, Saeter told him next.


    cknail moved to stand in front of Saeter. He had been called a good goblin! His old masters had never done that.


    Saeter then reached down to pick up the meat and to cknail''s surprise handed it to him. The goblin shoved the delicious smelling meat into his mouth before his master could change his mind. He managed to get it down with only a tiny bit of choking and gagging. The men of the city had never given him anything so tasty.


    Hungry were you? Saeter asked while giving cknail an odd look. Well, good. You''ve got discipline, I can work with that, Saeter said with just a bit of satisfaction in his otherwise rough voice.


    cknail suddenly belched loudly as the food he had eaten too quickly tried toe up again. His new master''s smile faded a little and he hesitated for a second before pressing on.


    Anyway, follow me. Back at camp we''ll see what you can really do, Saeter told the goblin before beginning to walk off.


    The goblin knew the followmand, but he mostly knew he didn''t want to be left alone there without his nice new safe master. He was unused to being above ground in the day and the bright blinding sunlight and strange fresh air unnerved him. Bleh, he dearly wished for the safe darkness andforting smell of the sewers.


    cknail followed Saeter through the remains of the caravan. It was much more interesting looking, and smelling, now with all the bandits scattered around looting corpses and wagons.


    cknail stuck close to his new master for safety as the men around them looked huge and dangerous. They were all obviously armed with various weapons, some of them still slick with red human blood.


    A few of the attackers stared at cknail as he passed and called out to Saeter. cknail was relieved that after a brief response from Saeter all of the men quickly lost interest in him and went back to looting and carrying stuff.


    After walking down the road a bit Saeter led the goblin over to the woods. After so many days of seeing the trees from a distance cknail was surprised at how intimidating they looked close up.


    In front of him a wall of greenery stretched. Trees many times his own height with light bark towered overhead and their long branches stretched out in every direction. Thick bushes sat underneath them and blocked most the ways forward. Only a few areas were thin enough for people to pass through.


    cknail gulped nervously as he approached the twisted mass of twigs and leaves before him. He much preferred trees when they weren''t all so close together and hard to see through.


    However, the goblins new master calmly strode through a gap in the bushes and into the strange overgrown domain beyond. cknail hesitated a second before following. Briefly, he considered trying to find another master who was still out on the road, but then he gathered up his courage and stepped into the woods.


    Branches towered above him cloaked in greenery as he passed through the threshold. The canopy wasnt thick enough to block most of the sunlight but it still concealed way too much from the goblin''s sight for him to befortable.


    His earlier thoughts of human eating forest monsters didn''t seem so exciting now. They were actually quite terrifying. As he nervously followed the man named Saeter under the tree branches, cknail couldn''t help but imagine legions of fearful beasts with bad intentionsying in wait above him.


    With a start, ckanil realized his new master was beginning to pull ahead. That would be bad! He really didn''t want to be left alone where there was no huge tough human to scare everything hungry for goblin away.


    All the trees and bushes looked exactly the same to cknail. If he lost sight of his master he would quickly be hopelessly lost.


    The goblin quickly plunged through the bushes in front of him in pursuit of his new master. He immediately regretted his actions, though. The branches poked and scratched him painfully so he had to slow down.


    Ack, why were the bushes so pointy? He hissed in frustration and annoyance. Moving slower he carefully sulked after Saeter, while trying to make as little noise as possible and keep an eye on everything around him.


    A few minutester heard what he thought was his master''s voice but couldn''t see him or make out his words. The concerned goblin quickly pushed through the bushes again, and after a brief prickly resistance he found himself stepping through thest barrier at the edge of the woods and into a small clearing.


    cknail shuddered. The scrub had been filled with bushes that poked and scratched him. There were also so many new confusing smells and he itched terribly now. As he scratched himself vigorously he heard a sound off to his side.


    He turned to look and jumped in rm at what he saw there. Only a few feet away a strange tall human with a drawn sword was scowling at him.


    Now what do we have here? Looks like a scrawny little goblin, the big ugly pink human drawled as cknail took a frightened step back from him.


    Maybe I should save us all some trouble and kill you. I doubt Saeter would really care too much, the dirty rough shaven man said with a sneer as he towered over the goblin.


    The human''s foul breath washed over the goblin as he talked. cknail froze in terror. The huge human man was so close!


    Enough, Ferret. Stop scaring my goblin, Saeter shouted irritably at the other man.


    cknails new master had stopped walking away and turned back towards them. There was a dangerous look in his eye as he stared towards the other man.


    Im just having a little fun, Saeter. Don''t you worry, the foul smelling man said with augh. His eyes however were still hostile when he turned away from the goblin.


    Sighing in relief, the goblin scurried after his master. cknail was pretty sure Saeter didn''t want to kill him but he wasn''t so sure about this new human.Obviously, he feared challenging cknail and his new master though, because he didnt pursue them.


    The meadow the goblin found himself hastily scrambling through seemed to have been filled with long grass in the recent past but most the nts had been trampled down. Only a few patches of standing nts remained.


    Several crude tents of various sizes were scattered around along with the remains of a fair number of burnt out fire pits. Heaps of various types of equipment were piled around in seemingly random ces making the camp seem haphazard.


    Saeter was headed towards one of the fire pits that was off to the side of the clearing. cknail trailed him. His master reached the camp site and began to rummage through a bag. After taking out a few items Saeter straightened up and turned to the goblin.


    All right, time for some real tests, he told cknail sternly.


    The goblin felt a hint of rm, but only a hint. Surely, he was a clever goblin that wouldn''t fail any tests. He grinned eagerly at the thought of showing off his intelligence.


    The more his new master trusted him the safer he would be. It would also make it easier for him to eventually escape back to his old home.


    Saeter began to drill cknail through variousmands. They worked through some very simple ones to some moreplex ones. If cknail didn''t know amand then Saeter showed him, which was a system the goblin liked much more than being smacked with stick every time he did something wrong. That was what his old masters had done.


    cknail learned every newmand after seeing it once, and in the process learned quite a few new human words as well. Saeter was pleased at his quick progress and showed it withments such as Good, and Well done.


    Saeter was constantly giving him new things to do. cknail was careful to try and remember all the newmands so that he would not be punished when his master demanded he perform them. He was really not sure why Saeter had taught him to shake his hand or y dead though. Maybe it was to lure prey closer? He hoped he wouldn''t be used as bait...


    Hmm, that will do. You learn quickly enough. Now for a real test. You can''t run around bare ass every day so let''s see if you can make your own clothes, Saeter announced.


    The grey haired man then headed over to the side of the clearing that the bandits hadn''t trampled where some tall nts were still growing. After a quick inspection he chose one and pulled it out of the ground.


    Here, see this is Wolf Mane. This is Wolf''s mane, he told cknail slowly and clearly as he held the dead nt up for him to see. I want you to pull these nts up like I just did. Get to it.


    Yes, master, cknail said and nodded vigorously in confirmation. He scanned the vegetation in front of him until he found a dead nt like the one his master had pulled out then moved to stand beside it. He grabbed it low close to the ground and pulled. It didn''t budge.


    Afraid of taking too long and incurring a punishment he tried again and this time put all his strength into it. The nt came loose with sudden jerk and cknail was sent spiralling over backward. His momentum carried him until a rough impact with Saeter''s boots stopped his roll.


    cknail cringed in horror. He hadn''t meant to touch his master and incur his terrible wrath. He shielded his face with his hands and peeked up. Much to the goblin''s confusion though Saeter was just scowling down at him, and made no move to hit him. The edges of his mouth were twitching upwards for some reason though.


    Try again, Saeter said as he suppressed a smile.


    cknail rushed to his feet and found another stalk. This time he pulled it out correctly. After a few minutes he pulled several more out with no further problems.


    That should be enough. Follow me, Saeter said as he gathered all the nts and carried them back to his camp. Once there he sat down and begun to pull the nts apart.


    Watch and do this. You need the fibres, the stringy bits, he said as he held them up for cknail to look at.


    Saeter pulled the stalk apart and extracted the long stringy fibres. Then he rubbed them gently between his fingers till they came loose. When he was done he handed cknail a nt.


    The goblin took it and gave it a doubtful look. This was nothing like anything his old masters had made him do. With a shrug the goblin copied the actions of Saeter and stripped out the fibres and cleaned them by rubbing them.


    Good, now the hard part, Saeter continued.


    He then straightened the fibres out and begun to weave them together carefully with his fingers. Watch carefully, he told cknail.


    The goblin peered at the cord forming in Saeter''s hand as he twisted the fibres together. It seemed sort ofplicated but how hard could twisting pieces of nt be for a genius goblin like him? He eagerly went to work.

 The Road North 3

    The Road North 3


    cknail spent almost the next hour working on twisting nt fibres into rope, and rapidly came to the conclusion that it was hopeless and he was a stupid stupid goblin. Much to his despair, no matter how hard he tried he couldn''t make a single piece of cord.


    Saeter had made it look so easy, but every time he tried he ruined the fibres or tied them into a useless knot. One time he had even somehow managed to get his hand entangled in the fibres and he had been forced to chew it free. Everything he touched was destroyed! He whimpered in self-pity and fear of punishment.


    After instructing him his master had moved over to the other side of his camp and for some reason was repeatedly stabbing and slicing a small block of wood with a knife. Clearly he was very mad. Saeter would look up every once and awhile to check on the goblin, and every time he did cknail cringed in shame.


    He had been doing so well earlier! He hadpleted every task his new master had given him, but now all that was ruined because he couldn''t twist a bunch of nts together. His new master would surely throw him out into the forest now or kill him himself!


    That''s enough, Saeter said suddenly as he put down the piece of wood and walked over to the goblin with an exasperated look on his face.


    cknail looked up from the rope he was desperately trying to weave and cringed at his master''s approach.


    You''ll have plenty of time to practiceter. Eventually you''ll get it. Right now you''re trying too hard, Saeter told cknail.


    The goblin was ovee by surprise and relief. He wasn''t going to be punished? But he had failed his master...


    Saeter strode over to his campsite and rummaged through a bag. This left cknail confused as to what was going on. After a few seconds Saeter pulled out some cord and leather.


    He then took out a needle and pulled the cord through the two leather pieces several times to create a crude loincloth, which he tied around cknail''s waist. cknail was now very confused and gave his master an uprehending look. What was going on? Saeter was a very strange master.


    You''ll wear this at all times or youll be punished. You''d better learn to make these yourself or you''ll be punished. If you want warmer or better clothes then you will have to make them yourself, Saeter told cknail sternly as the confused goblin adjusted the loincloth around his waist.


    Yes Master. I wear this always. I learn to work so I not be punished, he replied submissively.


    For good effect he also fell to his knees and groveled on the ground a bit. Well, a lot more than a bit actually. Grovelling was his go to response in almost every situation. That and running away as fast as his little legs would carry him.


    The loincloth was useless and annoying to wear but it was obviously a sign of his master''s ownership and protection. Hopefully once the other humans saw he belonged to Saeter it would prevent them from hitting or killing him.


    The tall human frowned in irritation at the goblin''s groveling but nodded in satisfaction at cknail''s verbal response. The goblin took this as a sign to climb back to his feet. Just then another voice rang out through the clearing.


    Saeter, you old recluse, I can''t imagine what''s going through your head. To just skip out on helping load up all the loot, without so much as a word, and to do what? Muck around with a bloody goblin! a deep female voice yelled.


    cknail looked over to see a tall muscr woman with short brown hair approaching. She was taller than most the men in the camp except for Saeter, but she looked stronger than him. However, her body was obviously that of a female and she still had a feminine figure, just arge one.


    The woman wore a heavy cloth shirt that was partly uced at the top to reveal her ample cleavage. She wore long practical leather pants and carried a ratherrge sword at her hip.


    Most importantly, she didnt look like a threat. The big grin on her face, her cheerful green eyes, and the rxed way she held herself made cknail think she wasn''t dangerous to him.


    Hello, Vorscha. I''m busy, Saeter responded with barely a nce her way.


    Following Vorscha was another male bandit. He was shorter and thinner than the woman and his long brown hair was tied back in a ponytail.


    Saeter was a somewhat skinny man but he made up for it by being tall. This man however was just of average height. His clothing looked to be of good quality but it had inly seen better days and was now somewhat worn. His eyes however were intelligent and energetic.


    The woman beside him who had yelled earlier ignored Saeter''s rude reply to her and continued speaking as if he hadn''t said anything.


    If I was gonna take something from the wagons and run off with it I wouldn''t pick a frigging goblin, that''s for sure. Only you could ever be that weird. In this entire pack of violent outcasts you are the weirdest by far Saeter, and Aerac makes little dolls out of radishes. That''s the kind of people you''repeting against, she continued without pause as she approached.


    I''m the band''s best tracker and hunter. I''m busy here doing my job and it''s not to load wagons, he replied calmly.


    Vorscha snorted in response but her eyes were shinning. She didnt seem to be angry.


    Arrogant prick aren''t you. We''ll you''re by far the most experienced tracker around anyway. How is ying around with a bloody goblin have anything to do with anything though? You should just get rid of it. We have enough problems with goblins stealing stuff without actually inviting them into camp, she told Saeter.


    cknail''s opinion of the woman dropped as she spoke. He never stole anything from anybody! People just left stuff lying around everywhere for some reason. How was he supposed to know it was theirs?


    In about an hour I''ve got this little fellow to do more work and show more smarts than most the people around here. Once I get him properly trained up he''s going to be a valuable tool. Unlike that skinny boy toy you''ve got following you around, Saeter replied as he threw a disdainful look at Vorscha and the man behind her.


    Vorscha justughed in response but the man behind her scowled at Saeter. cknail smiled in pride at his master''spliment. He was useful!


    Oh, Geralhd isn''t so bad Saeter. He''s just a helpless city boy and new to the morous ouw lifestyle. We were all stupid little shits once. I''ll have him broken in soon enough, she said with augh.


    Geralhd winced. He was clearly embarrassed but he decided to speak up anyway.


    Thank you Vorscha, but I am more than capable of speaking for myself. I may not have been born out in the woods with a sword in my hand, Saeter, but I n on surviving so I''m learning to do what I must, Geralhd interjected earnestly as Saeter eyed him and grunted doubtfully in response.


    Why do you keep taking fools like this under your wing, Vorscha? He''s gonna get himself killed one way or another, just like thest one, Saeter asked her gravely.


    Geralhd looked startled for a second before giving Saeter a dark re. Vorscha however just shrugged her muscr shoulders before replying.


    Why are you still out here, Saeter? You''ve been roaming the North longer than most the men here have been alive. Anyone else would have retired long ago. This isn''t a ce or a profession for men who have seen as many winters as you have. You know better than anyone that sooner orter something is going to kill you out here. Hells, even the bounty on your head expired years ago, Vorscha asked him in return.


    Saeter didn''t answer right away. Instead he sighed and turned away from them and looked out into the green expanse of forest off to his side for a second. Then his gaze swept back over the camp behind himself. cknail didn''t know exactly what he was looking at but he seemed to be deep in thought.


    There ain''t no fool like an old fool, Saeter finally responded with a tired sigh. Vorscha nodded and sighed as well.


    It''s just who we are, shemented solemnly. Geralhd looked a little taken aback by the unexpected serious turn in the conversation.


    cknail was having a lot of problems trying to understand what the humans were saying. They were using a lot of words and concepts he didn''t know. They suddenly seemed kind of sad though. It made him ufortable for some reason.


    Well, let''s see this goblin of yours, then, Vorscha said with sudden cheer in an obvious attempt to lighten the conversation.


    She moved to stand over cknail. The goblin smiled up at her. He tried to look harmless and to absolutely not think about picking things up that didn''t belong to him. Geralhd moved up beside her hesitantly to look over the goblin as well.


    Doesn''t seem like much to me. Looks pretty much the same as every other goblin around these parts, Vorschamented casually.


    cknail felt deeply insulted, which was weird because he had no idea what goblins around here were like at all. They could be purple and twice the size of humans for all he knew, but if they went around stealing things they were nothing like him.


    It''s a little bigger and darker in colour, though; murkier. A lot of goblins here have some hair on their heads and this one doesn''t. Huh, I''ve never been this close to live goblin before, Geralhd observed with interest.


    cknail found the man''s intense scrutiny ufortable. He also thought he sensed fear from the thin man. That made no sense to the goblin. He was the one at the mercy of a group of gigantic killers! Humans were weird.


    You can move closer. He''s not gonna bite you Geralhd. Are you cknail? Saeter asked cknail snidely.


    No, master; I never bite humans, never, cknail replied vigorously with a look of affronted horror on his face. Goblins who bit or hit humans didn''tst very long in the sewers.


    By the gods, it talks. That''s unnatural, Vorscha eximed and took a surprised step back. This time it was Geralhd that chuckled.


    All goblins can talk. Most just don''t speak Elorian. They have their own primitivenguages. Goblins can develop fairly sophisticated societies after all. Or at least they did before the ancient Goblin Wars. I''ve never heard of a goblin that could speak Elorian this well though. How interesting, Geralhd mused aloud.


    Saeter rolled his eyes in annoyance at the other man''s tone.


    Hey pretty boy. Don''t you know you''re always supposed to agree with me. You''re just lucky you''re cute or you never would havested this long out here, Vorscha said with fake outrage as she punched Geralhd lightly in the arm.


    The smaller man blushed a little and turned away with a cough to hide it, which only made Vorschaugh.


    If you two are done inspecting my goblin, why don''t you get back to work. I''m sure you have very important things to do, I know I do, Saeter told them dismissively.


    Vorscha met his rudeness with a smile, though. She seemed to be immune to Saeter''s grumpiness.


    I''m one of the band''s best fighters and thieves. I''m busy here doing my job and it''s not to load wagons, she replied snidely withughing eyes.


    Geralhd chuckled and Saeter gave them both an annoyed frown. The goblin had to stifle a smile of his own. The womans grin and mood were infectious.


    Very funny, but I''m actually training cknail here to help me hunt. You''re just standing around being as useful as tits on a boar, Saeter countered.


    Master is yes, cknail added with a serious nod in order to back up Saeter.


    Geralhd and Vorscha threw him amused looks.


    Well, if the young goblin here says its so then it must be true, Geralhdmented sarcastically.


    cknail didn''t like his tone of voice. He suspected he was being made fun of.


    Anyway, sorry to disappoint you Saeter but Geralhd and I finished our jobs a while ago so rxing here in camp is where we''re supposed to be, Vorscha exined.


    Then why don''t you go tell Herad that I''ll be out hunting for a bit. Tell her I''ll bring back something for the victory celebration tonight, Saeter told them sternly.


    He clearly wasn''t looking for any more conversation, which was fine with cknail. He didn''t want to be around the offensivedy named Vorscha either. He was so not a thief.


    Ah, avoiding Herad are you? Good idea, she''s still fuming. This was supposed to be an easy bloodless job but that thrice damned mage killed several of our guys before a lucky arrow took him out. Who knows what the hells he was even doing out here. Mages with the crystals like he had have better things to do than guard little caravans out to the frontier, Vorscha wondered aloud.


    Who knows why mages do bloody anything? The guilds seem to spend more time being mysterious than they do doing anything useful, Saeter replied with a disdainful sneer.


    You''re wrong about that, Saeter. The illustrious mage guilds spend most their valuable time fighting and killing each other over secrets and politics. Every once and a while they also manage to actually get some research on magic crystals or elixirs done, Geralhd jokingly added.


    Well, whatever he was doing here it certainly cost us somerades, Vorscha added soberly.


    cknail begun to grow tired of standing around listening to the humans talk about things he didn''t understand. He sat back down and absently scratched an itch on his neck.


    Just means more loot for us, Saetermented with ill-humour.


    Ha, you mean more loot for our fearsome leader Herad. I doubt any of us will see much in the way of extra coin, Geralhd replied.


    Both of you should be more respectful to the fallen. Next time it could be one of us who dies with some caravan guard''s de through our guts, Vorscha told them.


    Or be set ame and burned alive by abat mage like poor Guts. I can still smell bacon, Geralhd said with a shudder.


    Poor Guts? The man was a wanted murderer, deserter, and a rapist, Saeter remarked.


    Aren''t we all? I assume that''s why we''re all out here in the freezing north, hiding in these ursed woods, and robbing passing travelers, Geralhd countered.


    Some crimes are worse than others and your reasons for doing them matter. Even Herad had the women and children from the caravan released with a horse and wagon, Saeter muttered darkly.


    Well, I don''t know about you two but I''m not a rapist. Although I do have the asional dark fantasy, Vorscha joked cheerfully as she threw Geralhd a meaningful nce.


    The thin man looked ufortable and had to turn away. He coughed lightly to cover himself and then tried to divert the conversation.


    Speaking of Herad, did you see her fight that elixir user? He came out of nowhere and almost pushed us back on the left nk. Herad had to go out and fight him herself. That was quite the show. I''ve seen Vessels duel before but this was quite different. It was brutal, bloody, and lightning fast. Almost makes me want to try and get my hands on some elixir, he told them.


    Not me. I''ve seen what elixir does to people who take it and aren''t lucky enough to be vessels. Also sometimes even proper vessels get addicted to the stuff. Neither of those is an easy way to die. Herad''s wee to it but I''m sticking to good old fashioned muscle power, Vorscha told him as she flexed her arms.


    Also it''s a little expensive and hard to get if you''re an ouw out on the frontier. The lords tend to discourage the guilds from selling to the likes of us, Sater added sarcastically.


    By this point cknail hadpletely lost interest in the conversation and was barely paying attention. He gave a quiet yawn and rested his head on his knees.


    Herad must have used up a fair bit of her elixir in that fight then, Geralhd mused aloud. Saeter gave him a disproving look.


    Word of warning, boy. It''s not a good idea to go around talking about how much elixir Herad has left. She might believe you''re thinking of challenging her and she can be touchy about that, Saeter warned him quietly.


    Vorscha nodded to show her agreement and Geralhd looked chastened.


    Anyway, I need to be on my way. I can''t waste all morning talking to you two, Saeter abruptly announced.


    He then turned away from them without saying another word and grabbed a bag from his camp before walking off towards the woods.


    Come on, cknail, he called without turning around or even slowing.


    Instantly the goblin got up from where he had been slowly drifting off to sleep in the grass and sauntered after his master, leaving the other two bandits standing alone by themselves.


    Finally something to do other than sit around and listen to humans b on and on about stupid things, cknail thought to himself as he walked.


    He''s a miserable old bastard isnt he, Geralhdmented to Vorscha.


    You should see him around people he actually doesn''t like. I''m practically his best friend around here, cknail heard Vorscha respond cheerfully.


    As cknail approached the woods he began to regret his earlier enthusiasm for doing something more exciting. The trees loomed before him as Saeter waited for him at their edge. He had really been hoping that now that he had reached the camp his master wouldnt make him go out into the forest anymore.


    Saeter gave the goblin an impatient look and took an angry step towards him. cknail swallowed nervously but scurried into the shadows of the trees. He didnt want to make his master angry and get a beating.


    As he moved through the bushes at the edge of the clearing, the goblins heart started pounding and he went slightly pale. cknail didnt know what was out there waiting for him in the forest but every instinct he had was screaming that he was about to enter somewhere very dangerous.

 The Road North 4

    The Road North 4


    After a few minutes of walking through the woods Saeter turned to cknail and gave him an appraising look. The goblin was nervously scanning the woods around him for threats. He couldnt see any, but that didn''t mean they weren''t there...


    Well it''s obvious you''re no forest creature; you''re shaking like a leaf. Ill have to start your training out slow then. Just follow me and be quiet unless you want a smack. You''ll get used to being out in the deep green, you''re a goblin after all, Saeter exined to cknail.


    I follow master quiet like, whispered the goblin in response. He could do that; he snuck around ces all the time. Saeter grunted in affirmation before moving out. His long strides carried him quickly over the ground as he headed deeper into the emerald forest.


    cknail hurried after him. He made his best effort to keep up and make as little noise as possible. He stepped gently, avoided twigs and leaves, crept over logs, and kept low to the ground. Just as he was about to congratte himself on being so quiet he realized he had a problem.


    His legs were too small and short! His master with his long strides was quickly leaving him behind. While Saeter could walk casually cknail had to jog. Where Saeter stepped over logs and mud he had to jump. He couldn''t do that and be sneaky at the same time! There was no way he was going to be left behind though so he pushed his pace.


    cknail managed to keep up, but as they moved deeper into the woods a cloud of insects begun to gather. Soon a ck buzzing swarm had formed around them. Well mostly around cknail. His master was protected by his thick long clothes. Meanwhile cknail''s loincloth did pretty much nothing. The flies and mosquitoes seemed to prefer the goblin for some reason as well. Probably because Saeter was kind of old and skinny so he probably didn''t taste very good.


    cknail tried to swat the flying pests but there were far too many of them. As a goblin he had thick skin but the bites were still painful and annoying. His frantic motions failed to deter the swarm but they slowed him down and caused him to start to fall behind again. He had never seen, or felt, so many mosquitoes. He hissed angrily at the swarm but it apparently wasn''t very impressed because it just continued biting him.


    My blood, go away! cknail barked angrily at them. Luckily he knew a way to protect himself. Looking around he spotted a muddy puddle.


    The goblin then gleefully jumped in and started to roll around. The wet sludge was so cool and soothing as it enveloped his skin that he squealed in happiness. The stupid bugs wouldn''t be able to bite him through all the mud! After coating himself fully he got to his feet... and found his master staring down at him.


    By all the hells, what are you doing? Saeter asked him sounding dumbfounded. A look of surprise and disgust was stered on his face. cknail was pretty sure he was in trouble. He gave his master a begging look and his best puppy eyes.


    There were biting bugs... he told his master in his most pitiful sounding voice. Saeter gave him a light smack on his head and pulled him out of the mud by his ear.


    cknail had to lean into his master and hop rapidly to lessen the pain in his ear as Saeter pulled him. When he had been dragged well out of the mud Saeter looked him over angrily, but then sighed in resignation and let him go a secondter.


    The goblin winced at the pain in his ear and began to rub it carefully. It hadn''t really hurt him that much though and he expected further punishment. However his master didn''t seem that angry with him anymore. Instead of hitting him again Saeter reached into a pouch at his side and withdrew some nt leaves.


    This is Flybane, he told cknail as he handed several leaves to the goblin. cknail sniffed them and sneezed as their strong bitter smell invaded his nostrils.


    Luckily he managed to turn away before he had covered his master in green goblin snot, and it shot out onto the ground instead. He had once seen a goblin be beaten to death for doing that to a master. He wasn''t going to make that mistake!


    The smell chases bugs away. Get some of that mud off and then rub this on yourself instead. Seter continued to exin.


    Immediately cknail dropped to the ground and begun rolling on a patch of grass to remove the mud. As Saeter watched him the edges of his mouth twitched again. Why did his new master keep doing that?


    When the goblin had removed most of the mud he sat up and begun to wipe the leaves against his skin. Soon he begun to smell like the nt and the swarm of bugs around him thinned out. The scent almost made him sneeze again but he stifled it and gave Saeter a big toothy smile.


    Thank you master, he said gratefully in his high voice. Saeter shook his head in vexation as he regarded the grinning but still very dirty goblin.


    I''d throw you in a bath but I expect you''d just get dirty again right after, he told the goblin as he started to walk away. cknail didn''t know what a bath was but he hoped it was a treat for being so smart. Maybe he could earn er.


    As they trudged on the unfamiliar environment continued to make cknail anxious that something would sneak up or drop down on him from an overhead branch. He could just picture some monstrosity like a giant cat sitting up there hidden among the leaves ready to pounce. He didn''t think such a thing would be repelled by Flybane no matter how bad he smelled.


    Peering up above he almost ran into Saeter before he realized his master had stopped moving. Saeter had crouched low to the ground and was examining something.


    Come here cknail and look, Saeter called quietly. The goblin scampered over a fallen log and moved up beside his master to see what he was looking at. Several animal tracks decorated the patch of bare ground in front of them. They looked somewhat familiar to cknail, and smelled familiar as well.


    Wolves, avoid them they''re dangerous. These tracks are old though, Saeter told cknail.


    Smells like doggies, master, cknail replied.


    Yes, good goblin. Almost the same. Good nose, Saeter told him with a pleased tone. He smiled at cknail before getting back up and continuing on. cknail felt a sh happiness at the praise. He had been called good again! He followed Saeter and felt a little less afraid of the forest.


    If dog like things lived here than it couldn''t be so different from the sewers and alleys. cknail could deal with doggies. They couldn''t climb or squeeze into tight ces like goblins could. His tribe had many good times luring doggies next to high ces and then throwing stuff at them. Vicious biting doggies didn''t like bricks to their faces much.


    They walked on for awhile when suddenly a whiff of scent drew cknail''s attention. It was a very familiar smell, the scent of a goblin. He took a deeper breath and realized it was a young male, a strange young male.


    cknail felt the urge to track it down and show it who was dominant. This was his territory now! Then just like that the scent vanished. Saeter must have noticed something because he turned and regarded the goblin.


    What is it? he asked.


    Smell goblin. Young, cknail responded with a growl.


    Just one youngling? Then it''s nothing to worry about. Come on, Saeter said as he started walking again. cknail waited a second and took another deep breath but he could smell only leaves, dirt, and his master. With a touch of regret he took off after Seater.


    After awhile Saetar stopped moving and moved over into the bushes. There he reached over and pulled a dead rabbit from where it was hanging from a sapling by something wrapped around its neck.


    cknail eyed the small tree suspiciously. He didn''t know the forest very well but he was pretty sure rabbits didn''t grow on trees.


    After you learn rope making I will teach you how to set and check these snares. It''s a lot easier to catch rabbits this way than by hand like feral goblins do, Saeter exined as he hung the rabbit over his shoulder. Oh, it was a trap set by Saeter. He felt a little dumb.


    Saeter then disassembled the trap and packed it into his bag. After he finished he turned and headed off in a new direction. After a brief walk he stopped to check another trap, but it was empty. He dissembled it as well before moving on to the next. This one did have a rabbit caught in it. Saeter handed it to cknail to carry.


    No eating, he warned the goblin. cknail felt disappointment. For a second he had thought his master was giving him a treat. Maybe if he was very good he could taste the rabbitter, or maybe he could take some when Saeter was done with it.


    All in all they checked over a dozen traps, and got seven rabbits, before heading back to camp. cknail ended up carrying four. Being given so many meant that his master thought he was strong! He hoped he could earn a treat this way, he was getting kind of hungry.


    As they were on their way Saeter suddenly froze and drew his bow. cknail froze as well and scanned the woods for what his master had sensed. He had a sinking feeling that it would be dangerous. Pretty much everything was to a goblin.


    The trees around them were a little thicker and let less light through than in the area they had just left. There were also fewer bushes and instead of grass short leafy nts grew.


    cknail nervously looked up into the dense overhead tree branches, since there was little cover on the ground to hide anything approaching. Suddenly a sh of movement drew his attention up to a spot in the canopy.


    His eyes widened in fright as he saw the creature. Perched on a branch up ahead of them was a something. cknail had never seen anything like it.


    It was hard to tell at this distance but it seemed to be slightlyrger than a goblin but smaller than a human. It was however more than big enough to be dangerous to both goblins and humans though as it had knife sized talons jutting from the ends of its feet.


    Large brown and tan feathers covered its body and the long wings that jutted from its shoulders. Unlike a bird though another set of dangerous looking ws grew from the tips of its wings. Its head was crowned by a ck feathery crest that stretched down its back and almost looked like a woman''s long hair.


    The creatures chilling visage waspleted by intense intelligent eyes that stared down at them from a disturbingly human-like face instead of a bird-like beak. It noticed cknail''s attention and smiled down at him to reveal a mouth stuffed full of long sharp teeth obviously designed for tearing through flesh.


    cknail shivered violently as fear momentarily overcame him. Startled he instinctively looked around for a nice big bush or deep hole to hide in nearby. Much to his dismay the area around him was mostly full of tree trunks, roots, and tiny nts that only came up to his knees. There was no nearby shelter, so the goblin nced back at the grinning creature.


    The thing had obviously seen them and knew that they could see it. That was way more intelligence than the goblin wasfortable seeing in something that clearly wanted to eat him.


    Their eyes met and the creature locked gazes with him. It tilted its head to the side with an almost delicate motion and begun to make soft cooing noises, as if it was inviting him closer. cknail felt a horrible urge to run screaming, whether he wanted to run towards or away from the thing he didn''t know. Before his fear overwhelmed himpletely though Saeter interrupted and drew his attention.


    Come cknail. Come close to me, Saetermanded steadily and calmly as he took a step forward and interposed himself between the goblin and the creature.


    cknail thought that was a great idea! With a sh of panic the goblin ducked down and scrambled up to his master''s feet, barely remembering to pull the rabbits he had been carrying behind him. They were dragged through the leaf litter as he moved.


    Once he reached safety behind his master the goblin''s heartbeat begun to settle down a bit. True the terrible winged creature was terrifying but his master''s calm voice reassured him somewhat. After all Saeter was a giant and mighty warrior even among humans!


    cknail peeked out from behind his master''s rough dark brown cloak. The winged thing''s eyes narrowed in annoyance as it regarded the now sheltered goblin. cknail stuck his tongue out at it and made a face. Ha, it was obviously too weak and afraid toe anywhere near Saeter!


    Suddenly the thing tilted its head up and whistled sharply. The sound echoed around them as it bounced through the forest. Saeter went still.


    Look around cknail. Do you see any more? Saeter suddenly asked.


    The goblin''s heart beat sped up again. There was more than one of these freaks? He turned and furtively scanned the branches behind them for signs of another beast. He couldn''t see any more of the creatures anywhere though.


    You see any more? See any more? cried the creature in shrill mocking version of Saeter''s voice. cknail shuddered again at the creepy mimicry. Could the thing actually talk?


    Nothing master, he whispered to Saeter. Fear made his voice unsteady. Saeter nodded calmly in response.


    Off you go harpy. You''ll get no meat here, only arrows, Saeter yelled in a roar like tone that echoed through the forest.


    The creature tilted his head to the side as if in contemtion and regarded him for a few moments. Then it hissed angrily as it puffed itself up by fluffing its feathers and spreading its wings wide. It looked much bigger than a goblin now.


    Saeter responded to the challenge quickly. He drew his bow back and let loose an arrow. The creature however was ready for it and hopped sideways along the branch to dodge the arrow andnded on all four limbs. The harpy was too far away for a good shot. The arrow flew off into the woods after it missed its target.


    Suddenly a fluttering noise and the cracking of twigs was heard behind them and cknail twisted around just in time to see another harpynd on a branch on the opposite side of them. Saeter swore colourfully. The goblin gulped in fear and his stomach twisted. He definitely wasn''t feeling safe now.


    Only Arrows. Only Arrows, the first harpyughed in apparent amusement as it watched them with new anger in its eyes. It seemed quite happy to have reinforcements.


    Another harpy, cknail whispered to his master. Saeter just grunted in response. He had already cast a quick nce over his shoulder and seen it.


    The second harpy''s long ws dug into the branch it hadnded on and shredded the bark. It eyed them then hissed hatefully at them as its feathers puffed up.


    Both harpies begun to move with coordinated predatory grace. The first hopped along its branch then with a quick p of its wings it flew to another tree.


    The second dove down to a lower branch on a tree in the opposite direction. Its flight brought it slightly closer to Saeter and cknail. Like this they begun to circle the goblin and his master by hopping and gliding from branch to branch. Both of the harpies'' eyes never left Saeter''s bow.


    cknail knew what they were doing and he really didnt like it. No matter how he turned his head or shifted his body he couldnt keep an eye on both harpies at the same time. One of them was always lurking out of sight behind him. He shook uncontrobly; not knowing what the beast behind him was doing caused him to fill with a suffocating cold dread. The harpies slowly circled closer.


    Fuck this, Saeter suddenly eximed loudly in anger. He spun around and shot an arrow towards the harpy behind him just as it rose into the air to move again.


    The harpy twisted in the air but shrieked in pain as the arrow grazed it anyway. Wounded it careened off into the woods.


    The first harpy instantly took flight and dove down at cknail, who was now cowering at his master''s feet. Saeter however was ready for it and spun around again even as he drew another arrow.


    Seeing this the harpy quickly aborted its attack, shifted its flight, and swiftly glided down behind a tree out of sight


    From its cover behind the tree the harpy let loose another shrill bird like cry that echoed through the woods. The wounded harpy quickly joined in from wherever it was hiding off in the bush.


    Both cknail and his master winced at the loud grating sound. The goblin''srge ears began to twitch as the sound wore on them.


    Damn, Saeter swore as he nocked another arrow and got ready to shoot again.


    Suddenly an answering harpy call echoed from off to the side. It sounded fairly far away but it was hard to tell through the thick bush.


    Upon hearing the reply the first harpy peeked out from behind the tree and gave them a hateful look. It looked like it was preparing to attack them again. Saeter grimaced and began to line up another shot with his bow.


    With an angry sounding cry the winged beast suddenly hopped onto the tree trunk, using both sets of ws to climb, and scrambled up the tree and out of sight.


    cknail gazed up into the dark green foliage above them but couldn''t see anything. Saeter sighed in frustrated relief and let his bow go loose.


    If it was going to attack again it would have called more of its ilk. It was just looking to snatch a rabbit or two from us when its friend showed up and they decided to mess with our heads. Bloody harpies, Saeter exined half to himself and half to cknail.


    cknail just stared at his master. He was still more than a little stunned but he was d his master had prevented the harpies from ''messing with his head''. That sounded bad. He needed his head. Saeter met cknail''s trembling gaze.


    Harpies rarely attack men or even goblins but sometimes they will if a flock gets hungry enough. They can be dangerous though. The clever ones use their voices to lure prey into traps or falls. Don''t believe everything you hear out in the forest Saeter exined to a still shaking cknail. He then gave the goblin an appraising look.


    Calm down cknail. Fear will only get you killed out here, Saeter told the goblin. cknail blinked in confusion and concern. His master obviously wasn''t very good at calming people down.


    Saeter then shrugged and resumed walking while keeping an eye on the trees above them. cknail shadowed him very closely.


    The green maze of the forest around him suddenly seemed far more sinister after their encounter with the harpies. Even the joyful birdsong sounded hollow and sinister to the goblin. Maybe what he thought was birdsong was actually harpies calling to each other as they gathered. cknail could imagine their vicious toothy smiles as they took dark joy in fooling his master and him with such a simple trick.


    We need to get going before something actually dangerous decides to investigate all the noise, Saeter remarked casually to cknail as they moved.


    cknails eyes widened in rm at his master''sment; there were things more dangerous than harpies and wolf dogs? cknail didn''t even want to think about it. Why did the humans live out here if the forest was stuffed full of murder beasts? More importantly why did he have to serve humans who lived in a forest stuffed full of murder beasts? cknail really wanted to go home.


    As they made the journey back to camp through the forest cknail''s imagination begun to run wild and fill his head with an endless stream of images of menacing creatures. Every shadow cast by a bush or tree they passed contained a worse monster than thest.


    What was worse than giant wed birds and dogs? Was he right about the giant tree cats? No that was stupid; cats wouldn''t be more dangerous than dogs.


    Doggies chase cats who eat birdies, mumbled cknail as he gave a nervous giggle.


    Saeter turned around for a second and gave him an odd look before raising his finger to his mouth and hushing him. cknail shut up. He wasn''t sure what the finger gesture meant but it seemed like a painful threat.


    They soon arrived in an area that cknail remembered passing through before on their way out. That meant they were close to the camp, and cknail hade to the conclusion that he was far less likely to die in the camp than in the forest.


    A few minuteter cknail followed Saeter as they passed through the bushes at the forest''s edge and stepped out into the clearing which they had started from.


    With a squeal of joy cknail dashed out into the camp and ecstatically ran a few circles around an amused looking Saeter before copsing happily onto the grass.


    Safety atst! He had never been so happy to see so many hostile looking heavily armed human giants! He almost felt like hugging some of them but he was sure they wouldn''t like it, and might even kill him for it.


    With a content sigh the goblin rxed among the tall trampled grass and let the warm sun shine down on him. He was happy to be back.

 The Road North 5

    The Road North 5


    Up cknail,e on, Saeter called to the goblin as he made his way back to his tent.


    cknail climbed to his feet with a sigh and followed his master. He had wanted to enjoy lying on the soft grass under the sun some more.


    As they crossed the bandit camp cknail felt his earlier fear and joy start to fade as he calmed down. The sky above was clear and blue so there was no ce for those dreadful harpies or the worse things that filled his imagination to perch.


    However, he soon noticed that the camp had changed since he left. While the camp had been almost empty when he had left earlier it now contained over two dozen loitering bandits.


    Several of them looked over as Saeter and cknail approached. Some of them immediately lost interest and looked away but others threw cknail disbelieving or even out right hostile looks.


    This made cknail feel ufortable. He remembered the things some of the meaner men had said about how they had wanted to kill him. Did a lot of these humans feel the same way?


    He was almost sure that his master would protect him until he figured out how to get home, but just to be sure he would have to try extra hard to be a good helper. He just hoped he could work in the camp instead of out in the woods. He would rather deal with the res and rope weaving than the ravening beasts.


    Is that a goblin? cknail heard one disbelieving voice say.


    I think it is. Look at it. It must be some sort of pet, another human replied.


    Other voices murmured and debated amongst themselves, but Saeterpletely ignored the voices and walked over to his tent.


    Off to the side of his fire pit there was a simple three or four foot high rack made of sticks that was tied together with twine. After Saeter had put down his bag he pulled out a knife and slit the rabbits'' throats. He then looped a piece of cord around their feet so he could hang them up on the rack.


    Blood dripped from the rabbits'' open wounds onto the trampled grass below. It smelled so delicious to cknail that he licked his lips. However, he knew better than to eat something without his master''s permission, especially while he was still looking.


    He couldn''t prevent his stomach from growling though. It had been awhile since he hadst been fed. Hisst full meal had been early that morning when he had still been caged on the wagon. That seemed like so long ago to cknail, much longer than a day. Saeter noticed the rumbling sounds and turned to the goblin.


    I suppose you''ve earned a bite to eat, he said as he rummaged through his bag.


    He pulled out a small piece of dried meat and tossed it to cknail. He also fetched a small wooden bowl and filled it with water from his water pouch.


    The goblin hurriedly ate the meat. It tasted salty but very good, much better than what he had been fed on the wagon, but not as nice as a freshly caught rat. He washed it down with water from the bowl.


    After he had finished eating cknail turned to his master and assumed a sad begging expression. He wanted more food, like one of the juicy rabbits. Surely, his master didn''t need all of them!


    No begging. If you''re still hungry you''re gonna need to find your own food. There''s plenty of wild carrot and other stuff around, Saeter told him with a scowl.


    Saeter then looked around and pointed out a tall white flower. cknail sighed and reluctantly trudged over to the nts. He sniffed them carefully and looked them over. How was he supposed to eat these?


    Before he could figure out what to do he was interrupted by unexpected voices. The goblin looked up to see a human female with short ck hair approach his master.


    Saeter, what in all the hells are you up to now? someone said with a feminine but hardmanding voice.


    This new woman was athletic looking without being muscled like a man or Vorscha. Various dangerous looking des were strapped to her dark leather armor. The armor itself seemed to be moreplete and better maintained than that of most the other humans around.


    Yet, it was her cial blue eyes that stood out the most. They were as hard and cold as ice and seemed to pierce through whoever she was looking at.


    cknail involuntarily ducked into the grass as her eyes passed him over but Seater just casually looked up from what he was doing and met her stare.


    Ah, what can I do for you, Herad? the old scout replied nonchntly as the woman narrowed her eyes slightly in annoyance at his response.


    Vorscha told me you had found yourself a goblin pet. I dont want vermin like that wandering the camp, she told him as she threw cknail a hostile look.


    Really? I think hell be very useful, Saeter replied.


    I dont care what you think. Get rid of it or I will, Herad told him coldly.


    cknail froze and felt goose bumps rise on his skin. The woman seemed to be the chief of this tribe and she didnt appear to like him much! He didnt think any simple tricks would win her over either.


    However, Seater seemed to be calmly thinking something over.


    If thats what you want then thats what Ill do, but I was just thinking about how useful he would be in helping me hunt. Not to mention if we have a tame goblin around it will drive the wild ones away; theyre quite territorial, Saeter told her.


    It was subtle but cknail thought he saw Herad''s eyes narrow. She scowled and nced at Saeter suspiciously.


    How exactly will that thing be of any use? she asked him.


    cknail could see that she had begun to think things over though. He felt a speck of hope that he would survive this.


    Many ways, it can track like a hound but its stealthier and smarter. With him Ill be able sniff out the trails of both animals and men. Also, like I said before his scent will scare away all the wild goblins and end our theft problems, Saeter exined.


    Herad thought about it for a few seconds before answering.


    Fine, since you seem to believe it will be useful you can keep it, but it had better not cause any trouble or inconvenience me, Herad told him.


    Don''t worry, he''s well trained and I''m nning on keeping him too busy to get into any trouble, Saeter replied.


    See that you do, old man, she responded as she threw another look towards cknail.


    The goblin instantly crouched down again and tried to disappear into the grass as she looked his way. He knew she could still see him and that all he was doing was making himself look silly, but he couldn''t help himself. That woman''s eyes were really scary. She looked like she would kill him as soon as look at him.


    cknail was very d that the chieftain Herad had decided not to kill him and allowed him to join her tribe. He just really wished he hadnt been volunteered into hunting in the forest. That sounded dangerous!


    When he had lived in the sewer he had never had to deal with things like this. He needed to find a way back there soon.


    Much to the goblin''s relief Herad soon turned back to Saeter. She scowled at the rabbits hanging on the rack beside him in disapproval. This upset Backnail. He had almost died getting those rabbits!


    I do hope you''re nning on bringing more than a few scrawny rabbits to tonight''s celebration, Saeter. We need to celebrate today''s victory. It''s not every day that a fat caravan of goods falls into ourps. Those pathetic excuses for rabbits in front of you will hardly make up for skipping out on helping reload the wagons, Herad told him coldly.


    I n on going back out in a minute, Saeter replied simply without any apparent concern.


    Good, but don''t stay out toote. The band will be heading out early tomorrow morning after the men have had a chance to rest and patch their wounds. I want you out scouting a path first thing tomorrow. We will be heading north to escape any unwanted attention we have brought down on ourselves, just in case one of what passes for the local lords around here decides to actually care.... for once. We''ll use the roads for the first few days but head off track when it turns eastward. I don''t want to run into any surprises, Herad exined.


    A good n, Saeter replied with a nod. For some reason his response annoyed Herad.


    I wasn''t asking your opinion Saeter. Just do your job with your usualpetence and we won''t have a problem, she reprimanded him.


    She then threw cknail a disgusted look before turning around and walking off. Saeter turned to the cowering goblin when she was gone.


    She has that effect on a lot of people, he remarked.


    Sighing, he got up and stretched out before picking up his pack and bow again. Then he turned back to cknail.


    Well, it seems like Im going to have to get you trained quickly now, Saeter told him. So, there''s no point in waiting around. Come here.


    cknail shoved a still dirty wild carrot he had managed to dig up into his mouth and headed back over to his master. He was d the scarydy had left.


    Saeter got up and started walking across the camp towards to another group of bandits, and cknail followed him. As the goblin moved he nced past his master at the humans they were heading towards.


    They were a group of five who were talking and sitting in the shade cast by a tall pile of crates. cknail recognized two of them, the muscr woman Vorscha and the thin weak looking man named Geralhd.


    Geralhd, I have a job for you! Saeter yelled out as he approached. With an annoyed grimace Geralhd turned to look at Saeter.


    Since I don''t actually work for you Saeter, I think I will have to pass on whatever it is you''re talking about, the thin man replied.


    Saeter ignored his response and kept talking.


    I got some rabbits I don''t have time to skin and cut up since Herad wants me out hunting. Seems like a job for you, unless you don''t know how? Saeter exined with a hint of taunting in his voice as he spoke thest part.


    I know how to skin a rabbit Saeter, and no I''m not going to try and prove it to you. It''s going to take quite a bit more than a simple taunt from you to get me to do your work for you, Geralhd replied with an annoyed tone.


    The other three bandits that were sitting in the shade shuffled away and began to talk amongst themselves.


    I''m thinking my idea of skinning a rabbit right is different than yours. Besides didn''t you say you wanted to learn how to survive out here? Well here''s an opportunity to learn, boy. I''m sure Vorscha can help you figure out the hard parts, Saeter told him.


    As he talked Geralhd seemed to grow angrier, until it looked like he was either going to start yelling at the other man or punch him. However, before he could do anything Vorscha extended a hand and cut him off. She gave both the men disapproving looks and shook her head.


    Calm down both of you. That''s no way to ask a favour Saeter, and you know it. We''ll help you out old man but only if you ask nicely, Vorscha interjected as Saeter gave her an annoyed re and Garalhd to smiled in triumph.


    Fine, please help with the work... Saeter asked grumpily. ...for once.


    Geralhd gave Saeter a smug smile. cknail was sure Geralhd hadn''t heard his master grumble thest part, which didn''t surprise the goblin since the man had tiny pink human ears.


    I graciously ept your request for help, Saeter. Think nothing of it, Geralhd replied smugly.


    Oh, I do. Don''t worry, Saeter grumbled in reply.


    There was no way the other man hadn''t heard that; however, he apparently chose to ignore it since his only reaction was to keep smiling smugly at Saeter.


    Good, then that''s settled. Honestly, I don''t know how two men can act so childish sometimes. To think you''re both supposed to be bloodthirsty northern bandits, Vorscha said with a chuckle.


    cknail also found himself smiling at the funny faces both men were making.


    Geralhd noticed cknail smiling at him and turned towards the goblin. He returned the goblin''s grin and gave a friendly wave. cknail thought he was an idiot and nned on avoiding him as much as possible in the future.


    Hey there cknail, it''s nice to see you again little fellow. I hope Saeter''s not treating you too badly, he cheerfully told the goblin.


    The goblin gave Geralhd a suspicious nce. No one had ever talked to cknail like that before, ever. What was with the super friendly voice? It was weird and unnerving.


    Master good. He feed me and he scare bad harpies away, cknail replied. He knew which human he needed to stay on the good side of and it wasn''t the skinny weak one. He looked out of the corner of his eye and saw Saeter smile approvingly at him.


    Harpies eh? That sounds like a tale, Vorschamented after the goblin finished speaking. Saeter turned to her.


    We ran into two of them on our way back from the snares. They thought they could steal some of our rabbits. One of them dove at cknail but I scared them off, Saeter replied with a shrug.


    cknail remembered it slightly different than that. There were a lot more screams, cowering, and near death experiences in his version. Surprisingly, Gerald''s eyes widened in excitement as Saeter spoke.


    Oh harpies! I''ve always wanted to see a harpy. I''ve heard they''re quite exotic and beautiful creatures. I wish I could have been there, Geralhd said with a regretful sigh.


    Saeter looked at Geralhd like he was an idiot. Well, more of an idiot than usual any way. cknail agreed wholeheartedly. He copied his master''s facial expression exactly.


    Anyone who wanted to run into harpies deserved their fate. He still remembered their terrible ws and horrible voices. Vorscha saw him mimic his master and chuckled at them.


    Next time I think I''m going to run into harpies I''ll be sure to bring you, Saeter told Geralhd sarcastically.


    cknail thought that was a great idea. The fool would make a great human shield, the goblin thought with a smile.


    Harpies are dangerous, Geralhd. They''re likely to attack you if they think they can get away with it. You don''t want to run into them without someone at your back. I''m surprised Saeter and his goblin got away as easily as they did, Vorscha exined.


    I know what I''m doing, Saeter said with a shrug. Vorscha gave him a sceptical look.


    I don''t doubt you know the forest better than anyone but there''s a good reason most scouts travel in pairs and not alone, Saeter. It''s important to have someone at your back, and before you say anything that goblin of yours doesnt count, the tall woman told him with a hint of concern.


    I don''t have time to retrain one of the other scouts to get rid of their bad habits, and if I don''t they''re more likely to draw a Drake down on me than be any real help, Saeter huffed as Vorscha eyed him critically.


    You could always take Geralhd with you, Vorscha joked.


    Both Saeter and Geralhd nched at that idea.


    I''ll have to humbly decline that suggestion, Geralhd interjected hurriedly. When I said I wanted to learn to survive I didn''t mean to suggest I wanted to be a scout and go out into the forest. I like it fine here in camp, thank you.


    cknail thought that was the first smart thing Geralhd had ever said. cknail frowned and wished he had that option. Geralhd saw the goblin''s frown and misinterpreted it.


    Youre such a good goblin sitting there so patiently. You must be getting bored. I think you deserve a treat for putting up with your master, Geralhd said as he reached into his pocket and pulled out a bit of dried meat and threw it to cknail.


    The goblin quickly snatched it from the air and scoffed it down. His opinion of Geralhd changedpletely. He was no longer just an idiot. He was an idiotic food source.


    cknail thanks Geralhd, cknail said as he chewed and smacked. Vorscha gave him a disgusted look, but cknail ignored her as he was deep in thought. Geralhd seemed pleased at the goblin''s response.


    The man Geralhd had revealed himself to not only have tasty treats but also to be willing to give them to cknail. If he sucked up to Geralhd he should be able to get even more treats, and the weak man seemed to be the type of human that could be easily impressed. The trick would be not angering Saeter while doing it.


    Don''t spoil him, Geralhd. He needs to learn to fend for himself, Saeter told the other man with a scowl.


    Geralhd just rolled his eyes.


    How about you train him not to eat and speak at the same time, or at least chew quieter? Vorscha interjected dryly.


    Maybe when I have time, Saeter replied in the same dry tone.


    Speaking of time, don''t let us keep you from your hunting, Saeter. Since youre so busy and all, Geralhd said with a wave of his hands in the direction of the forest.


    Indeed, Saeter replied with a farewell nod to Vorscha.


    He then abruptly started walking off with cknail in tow. Geralhd gave cknail a wave goodbye and the goblin happily waved back. He was already nning how to get another treat out of the thin man.


    Without stopping Saeter headed straight out into the forest again. cknail followed him reluctantly. They left the rest of the bandit camp behind them as they exited the sunny clearing and stepped out under the shadowy forest canopy again.


    cknail sighed in resignation. He really didn''t want to go back out there, he wanted to go home! He hoped they didn''t see any more harpies...

 The Road North 6

    The Road North 6


    Soon, they were walking through the trees again. It wasnt cknail''s favorite ce to be. It also quickly became obvious to him that Saeter had headed in a different direction than they had gone during theirst trip. The type of trees and bushes were the same but none of them looked or smelled familiar.


    This probably meant less chance of running into harpies, but on the other hand probably increased their chances of running into something worse.


    Saeter trampled a path through the tall nts that grew under the trees and cknail followed in his wake. The sun shone practically all around them through the sparse canopy.


    After a few minutes, Saeter found an animal trail where the dirt and nts had been beaten down and began to follow it.


    Every once in a while cknail would hear rustling noises off in the bush. Most of the time he saw nothing but sometimes it would turn out to be birds taking flight or a small furry tailed rat like animal that would scurry up a tree.


    As they progressed through the woods the brown and grey trunks of the trees grew closer together and the overhead canopy grew thicker. The grass and tall nts gave way to shorter broad leaved nts and more bare ground became visible.


    Every once and awhile Saeter would stop and examine tracks or droppings on the ground. Sometimes he would have cknail examine them as he exined what they were. At one such time he called cknail over.


    cknail, these are bear tracks. Theyrerge and dangerous but not usually aggressive unless they smell a free meal or are surprised. Avoid them, he exined to the goblin as he pointed to the animal signs.


    cknail''s eyes widened in surprise as he examined the tracks, they were huge! Absently cknail wondered what his master thought was truly dangerous if these bear creatures were still considered only a minor threat.


    They began to head deeper into the woods then they had before. The atmosphere slowly changed bing darker and the air became moister. The scent of earth that had filled the forest gained an undertone of rot.


    cknail noticed that the trees that grew here were different from the ones he had seen earlier. Most of them had smooth bark that was pale grey and sickly looking. They also had wider leaves that blocked out more of the sun and cast the forest into deep shadow. The trees here had no lower branches and the ones that did were dead and leafless. It gave everything a dark stagnant feeling.


    Even the broad leaved nts started to grow sparse and disappear until most of the ground became dark naked soil with a scattering of old decayed leaves and the asional fern. Theck of obstacles meant cknail could see rows and rows of tall leafless trunks stretch out before him.


    As they moved forward Saeter took a second to pull his hood up. He then pulled a torch from his backpack and lit it with some flint and steel.


    The me lit the dark woods and scattered tall shifting shadows all around them as Saeter lifted the torch high. It also momentarily hurt cknail''s eyes, and he covered them with his hands as they adjusted.


    He didn''t know why his master needed the torch. True, it was dark here but he had seen humans walk through darker ces without light.


    Come take the torch, cknail, Saetermanded.


    Obediently, the goblin moved over and took the torch from his master. With his hands now free Saeter pulled out his bow and nocked an arrow.


    Now walk ahead of me, he told cknail.


    The goblin gave his master a wary look but tentatively started walking forward as he had beenmanded. Saeter trailed him from a dozen feet back. Why did Saeter need his bow? cknail didn''t like where this was going.


    cknail shuddered and brushed his face as he walked through a spider web. He spat in disgust. He hadn''t seen the web because of the darkness.


    Looking around he noticed that there were quite a few webs around, even high up in the trees. In fact, some of the threads were weirdly thick and stretched from tree to tree. As they walked the webs became thicker and thicker.


    cknail nced backwards towards his master and saw Saeter scanning the branches above them as he moved carefully forward. He seemed to cknail to be moving cautiously and looking for something, or looking out for something.


    In this part of the woods there were no bushes or leaves near the ground to hide behind though, so surely nothing here could berge enough to challenge his mighty master. He was a stupid goblin for being so afraid.


    cknail noticed arge lump a ways off to his right. He eyed it suspiciously but it seemed to be nothing more than a pile of pale bones, dirty webs, and brown dried up leaves.


    There, Saeter suddenly mumbled to himself.


    The old scout then drew his bow and nocked an arrow. He swiftly loosed the arrow up at the trunk of a tree ahead of them. However, instead of embedding itself into the trunk there was a shrill hiss as the arrow fell back to the ground with something stuck to the end of it.


    To cknail''s surprise whatever the arrow had hit squirmed and hissed as ity on the ground. To his horror he realized that it was a spider, a huge brown spider with a bodyrger than a rat''s. It was cat sized almost, and had long legs that thrashed and wed the air as it died. Its eight bright red eyes seemed to stare at cknail hungrily even as it stiffened in death.


    Saeter turned and gave cknail a serious look.


    We''re lucky I saw the light in the timber spider''s eyes before it jumped. Otherwise, I would have had to shoot it out of the air, he told the stunned goblin.


    Or shot it off of you once it had bitten you, Saeter added as an afterthought.


    cknail''s eyes widened as he realized that he had been bait for the spider. Saeter saw the goblin''s look and chuckled grimly.


    You would have been fine. Their venom just paralyses. Then they wrap you up forter. I would have killed it before anythingsting happened, he exined.


    Thank you master for saving me, cknail whimpered. Saeter looked off into the distance before replying.


    Don''t thank me yet goblin. This is the wild North; no one here is safe, not you and certainly not me, he exined.


    Let''s leave this dark ce master. cknail no want to die! the goblin whined to his master.


    Surely, his master could see that it was too dangerous to stay here. He would rather be chased by a whole pack of hungry dogs than go near a spider like that. cknail was never entering these dark woods ever again! No giant spider thing was going to bite him.


    Master had a thick hooded cloak to protect him but what did cknail have? Nothing! The goblin realized that the pile of bones he had seen were the remains of somerge animal that had been paralysed and wrapped up by a spider. He shuddered again and squeaked in rm.


    He could almost feel the touch of spider legs against his back and the ghost of its fangs against his neck. One bite and then he would be wrapped up in silk to join the bones here forever.


    Only fools are done in by timber spiders. There are much more dangerous ces to be but well be gone soon, so no worries, Saeter told cknail.


    Saeter retrieved his arrow and cleaned it, first with dirt and then a rag. Then he took out a knife and cut the spider open. He reached in and carefully removed a small sac from the incision. He then ced the sac on the ground and pierced it with three of his arrows. cknail saw something stain the arrows as Saeter removed them from the nd. That done Saeter wrapped the arrows in the rag and tucked them away


    We''re done here. Let''s get out of here, Saeter grunted as he stood up.


    cknail thought that was a great idea.


    Okay we go, cknail agreed as he nodded enthusiastically.


    This caused the torch he was still carrying to bob about and cast a swarm of shadows around them. He stood there and waited for his master to start moving. Saeter just gave him an annoyed look.


    You''re still going first. Head back the way we came. It should be safe, Saeter told him as he nocked another arrow.


    cknail gave his master a pitiful look but Saeter ignored it and pointed out the way with an outstretched hand.


    With a bitter sigh cknail started nervously walking back the way they hade. He hugged the torch tight as he scanned the dark torch lit trees around him for glimpses of long legs or red eyes. He saw nothing though. Giant spiders were now cknail''s least favourite animal, even worse than horses, or harpies.


    cknail trudged on through the dark woods. Several times he circled around areas with lots of cobwebs or where he thought he saw something above. He really didn''t want to be bitten by a spider, fatal or not.


    At one point cknail saw what he was fairly sure was a goblin skull resting against a tree. Its empty eye sockets stared out at him. Now he knew where goblins sat in the local food chain. He could hear Saeter''s footsteps behind him but he nced backwards to make sure he was there anyway. Surely he was safe so close to his master.


    While it was true Saeter was much nicer and beat him much less than his old masters cknail was very disturbed at the seemingly endless amount of things that ate goblins in the forest. It wasnt like goblins had never been killed in sewers but there at least he knew the dangers. In the forest he had no idea what woulde after him next. Anything could happen and that terrified him.


    Much to cknail''s relief the spider webs soon grew thinner and disappeared. The woods began to grow brighter and the underbrush thicker as well. cknail felt relief wash over him when they were obviously out of spider territory. He hoped his master would never make him go back to that dark terrible ce ever again.


    Stop, cknail, Saeter called out as soon as they werepletely out of the darkest part of the woods. cknail stopped walking and turned back to his master. Saeter walked up and took the torch from the goblin and then snuffed it out. After letting it cool for awhile he ced it back in his sack.


    Follow, hemanded as he once again took the lead. cknail thought they might be headed back to camp but Saeter then veered off in a new direction.


    Soon their way was blocked by a wide creek that meandered through the woods. Tall reeds and other aquatic nts grew alongside it. Birds called out to each other joyfully from the nearby tree tops. cknail had never seen or smelled such clean water. He wanted to run over and get himself a drink.


    He approached the creek to get a better look but was stopped by a sudden painful tug on one of his ears. The goblin jumped back and yelped in surprise. Saeter had grabbed the point of his ear and was scowling down at him.


    Stop, Saetermanded quietly but sternly. cknail instantly froze. Bad Goblin. I told you to follow, not lead. Don''t wander off and get yourself killed, Saeter hissed.


    He turned away from the goblin and eyed the creek suspiciously. He then picked a stone off the ground and threw it at the water. It bounced off of a rockrger than cknail in the water near the bank. Much to cknail''s surprise the rock then sunk below the water with a ssh and disappeared.


    Tyrant snapping turtle, Saeter whispered menacingly into his ear. Go near that thing little goblin and it will drag you under water and chew you up.


    The goblin''s eyes widened in horror. He hated deep water and he definitely hated being chewed on.


    cknail is sorry master. He stupid goblin but he thanks you for saving him, cknail moaned.


    Saeter gave him an irritated look and pulled the goblin by the ear again. cknail stumbled and stifled another yelp as he was pulled behind Saeter. His poor ear hurt so much! Why did his master keep pulling on it?


    Follow, Saetermanded sternly before heading downstream. He stayed a fair distance from the water. cknail followed him while rubbing his sore ear.


    Soon they came across a part of the creek where the water became very shallow and bubbled over a rocky bed. Saeter jumped down to the water and crossed the creek without a problem. The water barely submerged the toe of his boots.


    cknail also jumped down to the water, and grabbed a quick drink as well. He cupped the water in his hands and brought it to his mouth. The water was cool and tasted refreshing. It also felt nice and rxing as it flowed between his bare toes.


    After crossing the stream and moving through the brush for a while Saeter stopped and examined the ground. cknail smelled some type of scat. He didn''t know the animal but it seemed fresh. Saeter got up and inspected some small branches on a bush. He then began to move forward slower and more cautiously.


    As soon as they moved through the brush a green wall of branches and bushes rose up in front of them. They approached the bushes and then broke through them into the edge of the clearing.


    Short grass and sun loving flowers filled the meadow. The asional small tree or bush grew up from the ground creating small blind spots. Most of the area was open grass and inly visible though.


    Arge pond also sat in the middle of it. Reeds and lily pads grew around the pond. The sound of frogs croaking could be heard. cknail licked his lips. Frogs were a tasty treat. He had caught a few back in his old home. You simply had to sit next to the water and wait long enough for one toe close enough to grab. They were slimy, soft, and sweet. The best part was the legs, he loved to chew them.


    Without a word Saeter scanned the clearing and then cautiously moved over to a cluster of green bushes surrounding arge stone on a hill at the edge of the woods.


    Once there Saeter set his bag down and began to prepare. He crouched down and unwrapped the arrows he had covered in the rag and ced them on ground. Then, he sat down and made himselffortable with his bow in hisp. cknail sat down beside him.


    Saeter didnt move for several minutes and nothing happened. The frogs continued to croak unmolested and the asional bird swooped down to grab an insect.


    They waited for several more minutes. Saeter barely moved beyond the rising and falling of his chest as he breathed. He silently watched the clearing from his concealed spot. The wind blew through the long grass causing it to wave and rustle.


    Then they waited for what seemed like an hour. cknail began to lose patience. His instincts wanted to find a scent trail and follow it back to a burrow. He didn''t want to sit around all day and wait for nothing to happen! What kind of hunting was this?


    Then he saw movement in the grass. After a moment the brown head of a rabbit peaked through the grass as it stood up on its hind legs. Surely they hadn''te here for a rabbit, had they?


    cknail threw a look Saeter''s way but his master hadn''t reacted. The rabbit soon disappeared back into the grass. cknail sighed with disappointment and shifted into a morefortable position. He then grew dozy as the afternoon sun warmed his skin.


    After several more minutes of staring at the grass sway in the wind cknail soon wondered if there was a way to get back asleep without his master catching on. He wasn''t doing anything but sitting there anyway, and it was very boring.


    Then the bushes across the clearing shook. Instantly, they became the focus of cknail''s undivided attention. Was it just the wind? The bushes moved again and a tall animal moved out slowly into the clearing.


    It was shaped like a horse but smaller and much thinner with white spots on its brown fur. It trotted over to the pond and after a brief look around it began to drink. cknail half expected one of the massive turtles he had seen earlier to burst from the water and drag the beast under, but that didn''t happen.


    Suddenly in one fluid motion Saeter rose to his feet, nocked an arrow to his bow, pulled the bow back, and let the arrow loose. It shed towards the animal and struck it in the side of its chest under its neck.


    The beast cried out in surprise and pain and turned to flee, but it lost its footing in the wet mud around the pond and stumbled. Blood dribbled from its wound as it staggered away. It only managed to go several dozen feet before it copsed limply onto the grass. It twitched feebly a few times andy still.


    After another quick look around the clearing Saeter ran over to the deer and pulled out a knife, which he used to sh the deer''s throat. Dark red blood pooled onto the ground beneath the deer and the light faded from its frightened eyes, leaving only emptiness.


    The blood smelled delicious to cknail. The goblin licked his lips as he looked down at the beast.


    Saeter got up and walked to the edge of the forest. Once there he selected four long sturdy sticks and tied them together with rope to create a crude sled. He lifted the deer up and tied it to the sled.


    Next he took out his long knife and cut a hole through the deer''s muzzle right behind the nose. He then took one of the short sticks he had collected, shoved it through the hole and tied the rope to it.


    Time to head back, he told cknail as he loaded the rope over his shoulder and began to drag the sled and deer back towards the camp.


    Around halfway back they heard a rustling in some bushes a few dozen feet from them. Saeter dropped his bow and readied an arrow. With his eyes locked on the source of the sound he handed the sled''s rope to cknail.


    Pull it, go, hemanded the goblin.


    cknail eyed the sled doubtfully. His master did realize howrge the beast was right? cknail was only a normal sized goblin, not a giant human. Saeter threw cknail an impatient look and the goblin hurriedly began to pull.


    With a grunt of effort cknail copied his master and tugged the rope. At first he couldn''t manage it and the sled refused to move, then he felt something give way in his chest. A cool energy rushed through his body and the sled started to slide forward.


    It was tiring but he managed to drag the sled. Luckily for him goblins were stronger than their small size made them appear. Every time he thought he had reached his limit he felt another rush and managed to keep going.


    After awhile when he didn''t hear any more noises Saeter rxed. Much to cknail''s disappointment Saeter didn''t ask for the sled''s rope back. His master seemed content to let the goblin continue to drag the sled. cknail wanted to ask Saeter to take the rope back but didn''t dare.


    So instead he threw his master a pitiful begging expression. Saeter ignored him and cknail had to keep pulling. Alright then how about this? cknail began to shake and slow down as he pretended to be more tired than he was


    Something hard impacted his behind and cknail surged forward again with a small yelp. Saeter had kicked him in the butt! Ow, that had hurt.


    cknail reluctantly kept pulling but now he was annoyed. It was unfair of therge human to make him do all the work, not to mention he had been used as spider bait earlier!


    Ugly Saeter. Stupid Saeter. Smelly Saeter, cknail muttered under his breath quietly enough that he knew his master couldnt possibly hear it.


    You''re kind of strong for something your size, Saeter remarked a few minutesterter.


    The unexpectedpliment caught the goblin off guard and he felt a flush of pride at his master''s words. This newfound pride warred with the annoyance within him and won.


    He had started to slow again but with a surge of energy he put a little more effort into pulling and sped back up. He would show his master how strong a goblin he really was!


    As they walked through the forest it grew darker as the sun began to set. cknail had grown very tired and his legs burned painfully. He huffed and puffed as he strained to drag the sled. His face started to turn purple from the effort. He really hoped master would give him a treat for this.


    Thankfully, they saw no spiders or other creatures, except a startled rabbit and the asional bird, before they arrived back at the camp.


    As they got close to base Saeter finally stopped and took the sled back. cknail suspected he was trying to hog all the credit for the work. That seemed unfair but the goblin didnt really care; he was just excited to be so close to safety.


    In his eagerness, cknail ran up ahead of his master. A big grin was stered across his face as the camp came into sight beyond thest stretch of trees.


    The joy was lost however when something hard and heavy smashed into his skull and sent him sprawling limply across the ground and into the dirt. As he blinked in hazy confusion andy on the ground with a painful headache arge shadow fell over him.

 The Road North 7

    The Road North 7


    What had just happened? Had he been attacked by something? Ow, it hurt to think.


    Instinctively, cknail tried to get to his feet but he was far too unsteady and quickly fell over again. Thats when he heard theughter.


    Ha, thats what green shits like you get! Thatll teach you to walk around like a man, he heard a deep male voice say.


    cknail had been attacked by a human. Apparently, the camp wasnt so safe after all.


    cknail felt his insides twist with regret but he didnt quite know why. Things like this hadnt been umon in the sewers; cknail just hadnt thought it would happen here for some reason. How stupid of him.


    cknail painfully turned his head to get a look at his assant. It was an average sized man with brown hair and ugly red spots all over his face where they werent hidden by a ratty beard.


    His clothes were even dirtier and rougher looking than most of the other bandits, and that was saying something. cknail could practically smell rotten food and vomit from where hey.


    With a vicious smile on his face the man walked over towards the goblin and raised a foot as if to stomp on him. cknail feebly curled up in an attempt to shield himself as the man leered down on him. This was going to hurt.


    The man stopped suddenly as someone spoke up. The voices freezing cold tone seethed with anger and startled cknails assant.


    You, what do you think youre doing? No matter how fucking stupid you are you must know who that goblin belongs to, Saeter said as he stepped out of the bushes and dropped the sleds rope.


    His eyes were narrowed with barely contained rage. The other man backed away a bit and paled.


    I ah was just foolin round. No harm done now, the man stuttered fearfully.


    You must know what happens to people who touch whats mine, the old scout growled angrily.


    Er no, Im a new man. I just joined up, see? the other man exined fearfully as he continued to back away.


    Then let me tell you. They go out into the forest and nevere out. The deep green is always looking to im a few more souls. No one questions it and no one cares about human refuse like you. Look around, where are you right now? Saeter exined coldly as he stared the other man down.


    cknails attacker paled even more until he was ghost white. He seemed to try and speak but he choked and the words wouldnte out. Then with a whimper he turned and fled towards the camp.


    He didnt make it. With a practiced motion Saeter drew his bow and shot the other man in the back. With nothing but a gurgle and a few quick twitches the man copsed onto the exposed roots of a tree andy still.


    cknail found the strength to slowly get to his feet. He pushed himself up and hesitantly felt his head. His propping fingers found a small bleeding gash but he seemed otherwise fine. Goblins had very thick skulls. They got hit in the head all the time.


    Good, you seem all right. Take a seat while I dispose of this trash, Saeter told him with a motion towards the corpse of the man he had just killed.


    cknail stared at Saeter uprehendingly for a second before copsing into a sitting position. As the goblin watched, Saeter dragged the corpse off into the trees.


    By the time his master got back cknail had began to feel better. His headache had faded and the bleeding had stopped. As they broke out of the borders of the forest and into the sun they were met by a multitude of stares.


    This was, of course, because cknail was dragging a sled with a deerrger than himself on it. When they had reached the very edge of the forest Saeter had given him the sled back for some reason.


    Some of the people looking seemed impressed at the goblins strength. Most of them just looked hungry. They looked at the deer carcass with obvious anticipation and barely noticed the goblin pulling it. Only a very few gave him hostile looks.


    cknail was in no mood for cowering; it hadnt done him any good earlier. He returned the dirty looks he got. He stuck out his tongue or gave them the evil eye. Stupid humans, what did they have against him? He was a strong and cunning goblin!


    He hated the fact that they would probably get to eat the deer hed helped catch. He wasn''t even sure if he would be getting any, even after he had dragged it through the dangerous woods and was almost eaten by spiders. Scary dreadful spiders with long poisonous fangs that dropped down on you from ces you couldn''t see!


    cknail shivered at the memory then sighed. He knew he had the lowest position in the entire tribe. As the neer it was only natural he got the least and worst food. That was just the way tribes worked.


    How though was he supposed to work his way up to a higher position when everyone else was human, and thus huge? He didnt want to be the weakest in the tribe and be picked on anymore.


    He knew hurting humans was a very bad idea but fights were how goblins usually rose in rank. Maybe he could use some sort ofrge snare tied to an evenrger tree, or maybe he could dig a big hole and...


    Wait, if no one knew he was the one who made the trap then he wouldn''t get in trouble but he wouldn''t rise higher in the tribe either. cknail sighed and kept walking. He wished he was back home in the sewers. Things were so much simpler there.


    By the time they returned to camp the sun had started to set behind the trees. Its red light shone out from gaps in the foliage and dyed the clouds above crimson. The camp was now full of dozens of bandits. They lounged about in various sized groups and around newly lit campfires.


    At the edge of the clearing all the horses from the caravan had been brought over and tied up. cknail gave them a dirty look when he saw them. The smelly things should have just been killed.


    Stupid horses, he muttered.


    One of the horses returned his gaze and gave an aggressive snort. cknail stuck his tongue out at it. The stupid thing was tied up and couldn''t do anything to him. At least his position in this tribe was higher than that of the horses. It hadn''t been in the caravan.


    After they had walked away from the edge of the clearing Saeter turned to cknail.


    Leave the deer carcass here, he told the goblin as he sighed in fatigue and stretched.


    cknail had dropped the sled almost before his master had finished speaking. He then immediately plopped down onto the ground and begun to massage his aching feet. Ouch they hurt. He had surprised even himself by dragging that deer.


    Back in his old life he had never had many chances to test out his strength but obviously he was an even stronger and smarter goblin than he had thought! Truly, his master was lucky to have him as a servant.


    Must really be getting old, I never used to get this tired after just being out in the bush for a few hours, Saeter mused to himself as he sighed and did a few more stretches.


    cknail gave him an unamused look out of the corner of his eye. He was the one who had been doing the hard work! He couldntin though as Saeter had saved his life several times today. Of course, he was also the person who had put him into danger in the first ce.


    You''re finally back, Saeter; about time, cknail heard a familiar harsh voice say.


    It was the dangerous looking chieftain named Herad. She detached herself from a group of her rough looking minions and leisurely strolled over to them. She gave their catch an appraising ce but didn''t seem impressed with it at all.


    A deer, eh? It looks a bit skinny but I suppose it will have to do. I''ll have some thezy bastards behind me skin it up since you went and fetched it for me. You and your pet there seem a little roughed up. I wouldnt want to overwork an old man, she remarked with her usual crooked smile.


    Then I am no longer needed here, Saeter replied with a nod.


    I guess not, she agreed before calling several other bandits over to take the deer.


    Saeter began to walk away over to his camp, and after a quick nervous nce back at Herad the goblin followed him.


    Oh and Saeter, I''m d you''re getting some use out of that goblin. You know the rules. Everyone pulls their own weight or theyre gone, Herad said coldly to their backs as they walked away.


    cknail shivered from a chill that hadn''t been caused by the cooling afternoon air. He was fairly certain he knew what gone meant, and it wasn''t to be let loose in the forest. Praise his master for giving him so much hard work, and making him useful. To think that he had thought his master was mean and unfair because he was working him too hard!


    Once they reached Saeter''s campsite his master took a few minutes to unpack and put his stuff away. cknail watched him for awhile but then curled up andy down to rest.


    After only a few minutes though he was nudged awake by a familiar light kick and he opened his eyes to see his master standing over him. Maybe his master would give him some food now, he thought as he yawned.


    Instead, Saeter had a cup of hot water and a rag in his hand. He motioned for cknail to stand and then cleaned the goblins head wound. He finished up by tying the long rag around cknails forehead and telling him to leave it there.


    Stay here and practice, Saeter told him and dropped the cord he had been making earlier at his feet. cknail eyed it wearily but got up.


    Food time? cknail asked his master hopefully.


    Not yet. Time to practice, Saeter responded. cknail sighed in irritation.


    He really didn''t want to try making rope again. It was hard and tricky and he just couldn''t get it right. He frowned in displeasure. He remembered Herad''s threat though and sighed.


    He picked up the cord and walked over to arge rock and sat down. He then got back to work. Seater gave him an approving look and then turned and walked off. cknail was thus left all alone to work. Well alone, if you didn''t count all the other humans wandering around.


    cknail waited there and worked for awhile but his heart wasn''t in it. Wrapping and twisting the nt fibres soon grew unbearably dull. As he worked it began to get dark and the goblin nodded off.


    The sound of arge group of humans yelling in unison roared through the clearing and echoed off the surrounding trees. It was followed by the sound of birds taking flight and horses'' startled whinnying.


    cknail shot to his feet and was instantly awake. Was the tribe under attack?


    The goblin quickly scanned his surroundings. In the center of the clearing a giant pile of wood burned. Waves of red me rose up from it and crackled as they leapt high into the cloudy evening sky. Dozens of human figures cast a multitude of long shifting shadows over the grass and onto the trees as they moved around the fire.


    The sound voices was now very loud. Theyughed, yelled, and hooted as they celebrated. It was very goblin like. cknail almost felt like joining in, but suspected he wouldn''t bepletely wee.


    The smell of roast deer nketed the clearing. There was next to no wind to clear the air so the smell simply built up and filled the area. The meat''s delicious and smoky smell caused cknail to begun to drool. He licked his lips clean.


    To victory and plunder. Are we not the greatest thieves and cutthroats in all the world? Drink to that, Herad yelled in a voice that was unusually cheerful for her, and which sounded a little forced to the goblin.


    Her speech easily drowned out all the other voices and a ragged cheer followed her words as most of the bandits raised their cups high into the air. cknail thought he saw the chieftains figure posing right beside the fire where the gathered bandits were thickest.


    The goblin looked away from the spectacle and saw that he was alone. Not even Saeter was around. He knew that there was some food tucked away in his master''s bags. For a second he was tempted but he knew it would be a bad idea. Saeter would know if something went missing and he didn''t want to steal from his master anyway.


    There were other options though, options that were more suited to a goblin as cunning as cknail. Saeter had shown him how to find various edible nts such as wild carrot but what he really wanted was meat. He deserved delicious deer meat.


    The goblin smirked gleefully as he watched the bandits and their actions. A n soon formed in his head. He turned and closed his eyes, letting his night visione back.


    With that done he examined the edges of the clearing. He quickly spotted the locations of the guards that were posted for the celebration. He smiled and giggled to himself. It was time for him to be a sneaky cunning goblin.


    cknail moved away from his campfire and slipped into the shadows. He crouched down and began prowling about on his hands and feet. As a goblin, this type of movement was natural to him.


    Low to the ground, he moved slowly over and around the trampled grass towards the bonfire. On the way he crawled over to a pile of wooden crates and disappeared out of sight behind them.


    After a few seconds he peeked around the crates and nced at his target. None of the bandits were looking his way. He quickly broke from his cover and scurried forward until he stopped behind a patch of grass and weeds that was still standing tall.


    He was close enough now that the shadows the bandits cast shifted around him.


    After another hurried look to make sure no one could see him lurking in the dark, he crept slowly over to a tent and hid behind it. A quick sniff and a rummage through an open sack revealed a small bit of cheese. He took a second to scoff it down before continuing on. He wanted more than a bit of cheese.


    Most of the humans were milling about as they talked to each other, ate, and did some weird ritual that involved hitting their cups together. cknail didn''t see his master Saeter anywhere but he saw Vorscha and Herad. They were standing next to the fire and talking to each other.


    Then an opportunity presented itself; a nearby man at the edge of the group ced his te of food and cup on a crate and then walked off into the dark. He was probably going to mark his territory.


    cknail waited patiently until no one was looking in that direction and then dashed forward. By exploiting the nearby humans'' blind spots he reached the target unseen.


    He quickly grabbed the meat on the te and the cup beside it. Then as fast as his little legs would take him he dashed away from the fire and back into the safety of the concealing darkness.


    cknail hurried back to the pile of crates he had passed earlier, and nced back to make sure no one had noticed him. To his relief no one had. He was such a sneaky cunning goblin, so much more cunning than all the ugly giant humans!


    The goblin giggled in delight. He was breathing heavy and nervous but also feeling exhrated.


    Safely hidden among the crates, cknail licked his prize meat. It was so good and tasty! He begun to chew and gnaw it as the delicious fat melted in his mouth. However, much to his disappointment he was soon finished.


    Thus, he turned and examined the cup of liquid he had stolen. He had assumed it would be water but it wasn''t. He didn''t know what it was.


    He hadn''t had time to smell it before he grabbed it and cknail had never really had anything but water to drink. He wondered what this would taste like. Well it wasn''t urine. He knew what that smelled like.


    He took a sip and then stifled a choking gasp. Ugh, it burned all the way down! Why did humans drink this? He was about to throw it away when a niceplex aftertaste developed.


    He took another sip and then another. He smiled to himself happily. It wasn''t so bad once you got used to it. Nice really, he felt nice. He felt really nice. He drank the rest of the liquid down. Actually, this stuff was amazing. He wanted some more.


    He was such an amazing goblin, and he had such a great master. Hup. Why even Herad wasnt that bad. She was just very fond of knives and dressed all dark and stared at you like she wanted to kill you and all your littermates... ok, Herad was pretty bad.


    Hup. Everyone else was great though... except everyone who wasn''t! Also, this drink was great. What was it? He tried to get to his feet to find someone to ask but stumbled and couldn''t quite get up for some reason.


    Never mind then, he would just stay here for now. Hup.


    He licked his fingers to get another taste of deer meat. Then he started giggling uncontrobly. All those stupid humans prancing around that fire hadn''t seen him steal their meat and drink.


    They were so blind and stupid. It was funny. It was hrious. He was the sneakiest goblin ever!


    Hisughter apparently attracted someone''s attention because through a break in his sniggering he heard the sound of footsteps approaching. Uh oh! He tried to stop giggling but he found his situation too hrious.


    cknail? a deep voice asked.


    The crate he was behind was suddenly moved, revealing a concerned Saeter looking down at him. cknail smiled up at his great master.


    Master, hello, he giggled.


    Saeter examined him for a second before taking in the empty cup in his hand. He sniffed the air.


    Saeter sighed and roughly messaged his temples with his fingers. Intense exasperation was inly written in his bodynguage. cknail thought it was hrious.


    This is just what I need, a drunk goblin. I didn''t even know goblins could get drunk, Saeter remarked with another sigh.


    Me drink stuff every day, cknail responded groggily as he raised his cup unsteadily into the air.


    Why was he doing that? Things were getting kind of blurry.


    How in all the hells did you even get that? Saeter remarked with disbelief.


    You great! cknail replied cheerfully.


    Well, at least you''re a happy drunk, Saeter sighed.


    He then grabbed the goblin by the scruff of his neck and dragged him over to his campsite, which didnt hurt much for some reason.


    Once they reached Saeter''s fire the man sat cknail down. He then pulled out a sk of water and refilled the cup cknail was still holding.


    Drink, hemanded.


    cknail did, and managed to only spill a little over himself. He was disappointed it was just water but he was still thirsty so it was fine. Saeter gave cknail a troubled expression.


    I was going feed you but you were gone. I was afraid you had run off, but I see you decided to get your own supper somehow, Saeter exined.


    I hungry. So I sneak, no one see, cknail whispered confidentially to Saeter as he wiggled his fingers in front of his face. Saeter gave him an amused look.


    I guess that''s a type of foraging and I did tell you to find your own food. Maybe I should watch my tongue. Saeter said with a chuckle.


    Yes, master, cknail responded enthusiastically and totally without any sort of understanding. He tried to raise his hands above his head but he wobbled and had to stop.


    I should knock some sense into that skull of yours but youre drunk and already have a head wound, Saeter told the goblin.


    Come morning though, you''ll have a serious hangovering down on you, goblin. That ought to be punishment enough, Saeter remarked as he gave cknail a deeper less sympathetic smile.


    Nap time, mumbled a suddenly tired goblin as he let out a deep yawn.


    Saeter threw a ragged piece of cloth over the drowsy goblin and entered his tent for the night. The goblin curled up around his makeshift nket and fell asleep under the open sky, while feeling the mostfortable he had ever been. Maybe, it wasnt so bad here after all

 Interlude: Coins and Whispers

    Interlude: Coins and Whispers


    Zeckus Hurale was workingte. He was at the small office off the side of his warehouse in Anstabul. It had gotten dark outside but he continued to work by the light of a steady oilmp on his desk. The merchant was a pudgy blonde man. He was dressed in high quality clothes that he knew were quite out of fashion. He had much more important things to worry about.


    One of his ships had juste into port with a cargo of fine wine from the Homnds. That was normally a lucrative trade but this time his agents had not been able to acquire nearly as much as usual, and what they had gotten had been far too expensive. Apparently, some sort of pest from the eastern continent had made it across the ocean to the Homnds, and was ravaging the grape fields there.


    Zeckus sighed in exasperation. It was a small thing really, buttely there had been a lot of small things.


    Everyone knew the best wine came from the Homnds. Human civilization had developed there for over two thousand years before they had expanded across the ocean in Imperial times after all. The wildlife here outside the Homnds was almost as hostile to grapes as it was to humans, and now some of it had invaded humanitys ancestral home.


    There was nothing he could do about that, but perhaps he could turn this setback into an opportunity. With advanced warning of the wine shortage he might be able to buy up some of the local vineyards while they were still cheap.


    They might be of poor quality but the shortage would still drive their prices up. He might even be able to figure out a way to improve the quality of the local wine! That would earn him a pleasant profit indeed.


    With a smile, he went to work writing up a series of new orders for his agents. He had almost finished when he was interrupted.


    Your sister Kleia is here to see you, sir, his secretary announced from the doorway.


    Zeckus frowned. He hadnt heard the door open. What was his sister doing here sote? It must be important, and that meant bad news.


    Thank you Gregory. See her in please, Zeckus told his clerk as he finished writing a line on the parchment in front of him.


    He then put his quill down neatly next to his ink pot and looked up just in time to see his sister enter.


    Kleia was a short woman who, like Zeckus, had their familys blonde hair . However, she wore it long all the way down to her back. Her somewhat pudgy figure and in face gave her a matronly quality, but that had not always been the case. When she had been younger she had been considered quite pretty, but ever since her husbands death she had started to put on a little weight and had changed the way she dressed.


    Zeckus supposed that with two kids and her husbands businesses to run she simply didnt have the time, or need, to care about her appearance.


    He hadnt ever bothered with such things, which is why he was more than a little overweight himself. If either of them wanted the intimate sort ofpany then he knew they could both afford to just pay for it.


    Greetings Zeck, how is my little brother? Kleia asked with a smile as she entered the room.


    Zeckus gave her a polite smile back.


    Im fine, thank you for asking, sister. What brings you to my office at this time of night? he asked her back.


    Oh Zeck, must you always be so to the point. It is a rather unattractive quality in a man you know. No wonder you havent been able to find yourself a good wife, she replied as she sat down across the desk from him.


    Im thirsty, why dont you have your man there bring me a cup of tea, she added after she had made herselffortable.


    As you wish, Zeckus answered.


    He picked up and rang a small bell with a wooden handle that had been sitting on the corner of his desk next to a stack of papers. His secretary immediately stepped into the room in answer to his summons.


    My sister would like a cup of tea, Gregory. Why dont you bring both of us one, Zeckus told the man.


    Gregory nodded in acknowledgement and left to fulfill his mastersmand.


    Now what is this about dear Kleia, he asked his sister again.


    She pouted at being rushed but answered all the same.


    I have just received reliable word that Alfesso and almost his entire caravan were robbed and put to the sword on the road from Eastpointst week, she told him.


    Zeckus blinked in surprise. That was not what he had been expecting to hear.


    Thats horrible news. I will have to remember to get Gregory to send his poor widow some flowers, Zeckus remarked.


    Kleia rolled her eyes.


    Of course brother, but Im not here to talk to you about such trivialities. This tragedy will have a huge impact on our businesses. I thought you deserved a heads up. Its not as if we both didnt have enough problems already. What are we paying such high taxes for if bandits are being allowed to roam the countryside and ughter honest merchants freely, she said with indignation.


    Zeckus snorted.


    Its for the wars, sister. Thats where all the coin is going. The wars are a bottomless money pit, and theyre slowly strangling this country to death. Youre right about the effect of this on our businesses though, he said with a sigh.


    Of course Im right. I have more experience in these matters than you. You learned book keeping from me after all. Father was always terrible at that sort of thing, even though he was a great negotiator, she reminded him.


    Zeckus didnt need the reminder. He knew the cheery and somewhat empty headed act his sister put on was just that, an act. Having people underestimate her had served her well over the years.


    He decided to ignore her attempt to sidetrack the conversation. He didnt want to get drawn into another conversation about their deceased father. It was toote in the evening for that.


    I wouldnt have thought that bandits would strike so far south. To ovee Alfessos guards it must have been one of therger northern bands down from the Iron Teeth. Theyve been a problem since the fall of Coroulis, and the ursed conscription just keeps making it worse. After over a decade with next to no troops returning home even the most backwards peasants will realize something is up, heined.


    King Namirius cant afford to let any veterans go home. He needs every soldier he can get to keep the borders secure, Kleia remarked. His father may have won the war against Deveshur but that whole country has descended into bloody chaos. Every month it seems a new noble joins the fight to im the throne and take back thend we annexed from them. Not to mention we still have to worry about Hulgaron to the south.


    Yes, but that means he just keeps throwing men into battle after battle until theyre all dead. No wonder there are so many deserters heading north to join these bands. They know if they stay in the army its practically a death sentence. As a policy that one leaves something to be desired, especially since were the ones being raided, Zeckus replied sarcastically.


    So what are we going to do about it? I think influencing military policy is a little beyond us, she remarked.


    If theyve set up in the area we may have topletely stop sending goods north. With the high taxes the king demands and what it would cost to pay for the amount of guards needed to protect a caravan I dont think we could squeeze out a profit, he reluctantly exined.


    There must be something we can do? Maybe we could pay the bandits off. If they simply rob every caravan that crosses their path they will soon run out of targets. Merchants will just start avoiding the entire area and that wont profit them.  she mused aloud.


    Do you know whose band it was? You mentioned that almost everyone had been killed. That means there were at least some survivors, he asked with interest.


    No sorry, all I have are statements from the survivors. They were woman and children the bandits released. The bandits didnt apparently announce who they were and the survivors dont remember anything I could use to identify them beyond howrge the band was, she replied.


    Werick the Wolf supposedly has thergest band, but he usually operates in northeast Deveshur. From the rumors I hear hes busy setting himself up as some sort of warlord there. Hes also supposed to have the morals of a hobgoblin, so I doubt he would let any prisoners go. Theyre worth more than a few coins to the right, or wrong, sort of people, he guessed.


    True, ouws with any sense of morality are in short supply these days. None of them are anything at all like the White Raven. Now there was a dashing ouw. They still tell stories about him you know. Theyre especially popr with the youngdies, Kleia reminisced wistfully.


    Zeckus smiled at his sisters tone. He remembered hearing more than a few tales about the White Raven himself when he had been younger.


    He imagined the stories the young men had recounted were quite different from those that had been shared amongst the women. Both were undoubtedly equally fictional though. Zeckus forced himself back to the matter at hand.


    There are a few bands that might let nonbatants go though. The question is how many of these arerge enough and could be that far down below Riverbend. My guess would be the ck Snake. Shes always been a hard one to figure out. Something unpredictable and daring like this suits her, and she has a fairlyrge band, Zeckus spected.


    I hope youre right. From what I know of her she is the type that would keep to her end of a bargain if we fill her pockets with enough gold, his sister replied.


    Maybe, but in order to strike a deal with her we would probably have to work through the Broken Wheel Company. Those scum are basically nothing but bandits themselves and would charge us a painful fee just to connect us with her, if they would help us at all, he told her.


    Kleia tilted her head to the side and she appeared to fall deep into thought. However, Zeckus only had to wait a few seconds before she smiled and turned back to him.


    Leave that to me. I might have some contacts there I could use. Its not a sure thing but some people owe me a few favors, she replied.


    Zeckus frowned at his sisters response. He didnt like the idea of her having anything at all to do with the Broken Wheel Company. They pretended to be just another merchant consortium but they were rumored to be involved in every sort of unsavory practice. Everything from forced prostitution to the buying of stolen goods and assassination was attributed to them.


    Zeckus had a lifetime of experience as a sessful merchant to draw on, and he had good reasons to believe that most of those rumors were true. No one knew who ran thepany, but the most credible rumor Zeckus had heard was that it was secretly owned by a conglomerate of the oldest merchant families on the continent. Whoever they were, they had connections, resources, and ruthlessness that put his to shame.


    What are you thinking about little brother? Youve gone silent on me. Its rather rude you know, Kleia asked him with a chuckle. Her question interrupted his thinking.


    Im thinking I would rather not deal with the Broken Wheel. I want no part of the things they do. Theyre killers and much worse, he replied gravely.


    So youre fine with dealing with the ck Snake but not the Broken Wheel? she asked him with amusement in in her voice.


    The question surprised Zeckus. He thought it over for a second or two and realized it was true, but before he could answer her there was a polite knock on his door.


    Come in Gregory, Zeckus yelled in the direction of the doorway.


    His secretary then stepped into the room with tworge steaming cups of tea in his hands. He swiftly walked over and ced them before Zeckus and his sister.


    Kleia gave the man a smile and thanked him while Zeckus simply gave him a nod of approval. His job done the man left the room and closed the door quietly behind him.


    Now where were we? his sister asked before she took a sip of tea.


    I was just about to tell you that yes I do find the Broken Wheel more repugnant than run of the mill bandits. I understand ouws such as those that serve the ck Snake and the Wolf. I wish the army would go in and hang the lot of them, but I must admit that to some degree life has forced them down their path. Not so the Broken Wheel. The bandits that gue our roads are a symptom of the times. I suspect the Broken Wheel is part of the disease, Zeckus told his sister seriously.


    Little brother, have you been reading those dreadful pre-Imperial philosophers again. That was unusually deep for you, his sister joked.


    As a wise man said so many years ago, Only when a man has turned his gaze inwards can he truly begin to see the world. However, I dont need the wisdom of ancient philosophers to know that I want nothing to do with the Broken Wheel Company, he told her.


    You make it sound like I was talking about buying into it, or forming a partnership with them. I was just suggesting I might know someone who could broker a deal between us and Herad the ck Snake. It would simply be a favor paid for a favor owed, she replied with a roll of her eyes.


    Zeckus scowled and drank a few more sips of tea while he thought it through. He couldnt stop his sister from doing whatever she wanted. After her husbands death she had acquired control of his familys rather extensive business holdings. If he was being honest with himself those holdings were probablyrger than the ones he had inherited from their father.


    If they did manage to strike a deal with Herad that allowed them safe passage then that would give them a near monopoly on the trade from Anstabul all the way north to Riverbend. That was not an inconsiderable market. Riverbend may not be what it once was but it was still a medium sized city that supplied the south of Eloria with a fair amount of timber, fur, and ore.


    Zeckus mumbled quietly as he quickly ran some rough numbers through his head. Even after having to pay the kings taxes and Herads bribe he should still be able to earn a profit. Riverbend and the smaller cities and towns on the way there would badly need the supplies they shipped as well.


    Fine Kleia, I cant stop you so I might as well join you and keep an eye out. Lets see if you can get in contact with our new local bandit captain, if indeed it is the ck Snake, he told her with a sigh of displeasure.


    Zeckus and his sister spoke for a few more minutes as they finished their tea. Soon though, Kleia excused herself and returned home, leaving Zeckus alone in his office.


    The merchant got up from his desk and walked over to his window. He felt a feeling of wearinesse over him as he gazed outside.


    Outside the darkness of night had settled over the city. A few lights shone out from homes across the city but Zeckus remembered a time when the lights had been far more numerous. Every year it seemed like the city grew darker.


    His sisters visit had distracted him from his business but he still had things to finish tonight. He had many responsibilities and it was getting harder and harder to fulfill them.


    Zeckus was a good merchant. He knew this to be true. He was able to make deals and put ventures together that earned him substantial profits, or they would have if the times had been different. He didnt know how much his sister knew but the truth was that Zeckus had to fight hard to keep hispany afloat. He managed to stay out of debt only by selling assets.


    At the current rate it would take many years for his business to go under but inevitably it would. Taxes were just too high and the war was causing all non-essential markets to shrink. People just werent buying, and he didnt me them.


    Farms everywhere were being abandoned and the desperate were turning to banditry, which just made everything worse. Several of his less canny peers had already gone bankrupt. He suspected poor Alfessos lost caravan had been a dangerous gambit meant to keep his business financially afloat. That gamble had obviously failed and cost the merchant more than simple gold.


    The truth was Zeckus badly needed something like the deal his sister had just proposed. He had interest payments on debts that needed to be paid soon and he didnt have the gold on hand to pay them.


    The real question though was whether his sister had known all this, and whether her visit had been a carefully staged act, whose sole purpose was to manipte him into epting her offer. He wouldnt put past her. She was both remarkably loyal and upsettingly ruthless.


    After onest long look out into the night Zeckus turned away from the window and his idle thoughts. He sat back down at his desk and picked up his quill.


    After dipping the tip into the inkwell he went back to writing out his agents new orders. It wasnt like he had any real choice but to ept his sisters deal anyway. He could only hope that somewhere out there something was happening that would halt the worlds slow slide into ruin.

 Honor Among Thieves 1

    Honor Among Thieves 1


    cknail woke up the next morning to the feeling of someone beating him savagely. He twitched and gasped as waves of pain exploded through his head and stomach.


    The stabbing agony in his skull hurt so much he could barely think and his stomach felt like it was trying to explode messily out of both ends of his body at the same time. He had no idea what hed done to deserve this torture.


    The goblin tried to remember if he had done anything wrong, but he couldn''t recall anything bad. In fact, he couldn''t remember much of anything. He fought through the pain and slowly opened his eyes.


    At first the light blinded his eyes and it took awhile for them to adjust. Why was it so bright out? Was he outside the sewer? He never left the sewer during the day!


    He hoped he hadnt been attacked by a goblin, or group of goblins, looking to take his position in the tribe again. He was one of the older goblins and had managed to fight his way up to a fairly high rank, although he had been toozy to go all the way to the top and be the tribe chief.


    cknail knew he was much tougher than the big nasty goblin that was the current chieftain. He just didnt want to fight him


    Some of the younger goblins had been getting uppitytely though, and food had been running a bit low. The sewer could only support so many goblins. Through the fingers shielding his face cknail took a quick look around for his assants.


    He was outside and there was nobody around! Had his attackers left? Just then he had to double over and gag as his guts writhed like they were full of snakes.


    Oh, there they were! His assants were apparently inside of him and beating him from the inside out. The goblin groaned and tried desperately to fade back into unconsciousness, where the pain couldn''t follow.


    His futile attempt at slumber was interrupted as he felt a hand grab his neck and pull him into the air. He was too weak to try and fight it. All he could do was moan and il weakly before giving up and going limp. What the heck was going on? He couldn''t remember where he was. He hoped his death would at least be quick.


    The hand suddenly let go of him and cknailnded painfully on something t and solid made of rough wood. The impact shook him and cleared his head for a second. His name was cknail; he had a name. He remembered where he was.


    Surely, the forest had to have been a bad dream. The part with the spiders was just too horrible to have been real!


    cknail sat up unsteadily and looked around. He was sitting on the edge of one of the wagons the bandits had taken from the caravan. His master Saeter towered over him, casting his shadow over the goblin.


    Good morning cknail! Saeter smugly greeted him as the goblin looked up.


    Ow, cknail then moaned as he tried to curl up into a ball again.


    Saeter chuckled and pulled him back into a sitting position. Once he knew he had the goblin''s attention he started talking.


    That should teach you that alcohol isn''t for goblins, Saeter told the goblin.


    Ow, cknail grunted.


    Stay here in the wagon, cknail. I left some food and water out for you. I''ll be back in a while to see if you''re feeling better, Saeter told the disoriented goblin.


    His master then went through his bags before leaving the goblin and walking away.


    With a groan cknail copsed back onto the wagon''s deck. After a few minutes of suffering he heard the whinny of horses and the cart shook and started moving. So, cknail once again found himself riding on a bumpy wagon along the forest road. At least this time he wasn''t stuck in a cage.


    It was still the worst day in his entire life, though. He felt sicker and more ufortable than he had ever been before, which was saying something considering he used to live in a sewer and eat garbage.


    Hey beside Saeter''s possessions feeling like his stomach was full of live rats and someone was pounding on his head with a club. The wagon creaked and bumped beneath him and every once and awhile he would groan in pain. Actually, he had much preferred it when hed been in the cage.


    Why did humans drink something that was so obviously poisonous? He had eaten rotten fish heads that agreed with him more, and they had tasted better as well! Maybe it was some sort of weird human test of toughness? He guessed that meant he would have passed? Well if it was a test of intelligence hed definitely failed.


    At least his master had left him plenty of water and food. Not that he felt like eating. All he could do wasy there moaning and hoping he would recover before he died, or before death started to look goodpared to this endless suffering.


    The humans had taken most the boxes and goods they had stolen from the caravan and put them back on the wagons. The ouws had then broken camp and packed up their own stuff. Before the sun had truly risen into the sky they were on their way, headed down the road the way the caravan had been going.


    Most of the humans walked beside the wagons piled high with boxes. All the wagons had drivers and several humans rode in the back like cknail.


    Most of the passengers seemed to have been wounded because they wore bandages or were missing some of their less important human bits. Humans probably didnt need all their fingers and it wasnt like their tiny ears did much anyway.


    It took several hours of rough traveling for cknail to finally start feeling better. He managed to sit up and eat some of the gruel his master had left him. It felt good to put something in his stomach and he soon regained some energy.


    The goblin actually started to enjoy sitting on the back of the wagon with his feet dangling off the edge as he watched all the trees go by.


    Being on the road was certainly a lot better than being in the forest. Now that his head was clear he definitely remembered that the harpies and timber spiders were very real. He hoped he was leaving them behind forever but he kind of doubted it. Life didnt work that way in his experience.


    cknail managed to find another way to spend his time. He enjoyed standing at the side of the wagon and looking down, barely, on all the foolish humans who were walking behind the wagons. He bet they all wished they could ride the wagon like him!


    He giggled to himself in amusement. Look there was Geralhd! He already looked exhausted, sweaty, and miserable. He waved to the man cheerfully but Geralhd didn''t see him.


    cknail''s fun was interrupted when Saeter returned. The goblin didn''t hear his master approach. He was too preupied hanging off the side of the wagon and snickering at people when he heard a loud cough behind him.


    The goblin turned around to see an amused Saeter looking back. cknail froze in surprise. He tried to remember if he had done anything wrongtely. Nope, he was pretty sure he had always done exactly as his mastermanded. He was a good goblin after all.


    Well, you''re looking much better, right full of energy too. That''s good, you''re gonna need it, Saeter told the goblin.


    Uh oh, cknail didn''t like the sound of that.


    Since youre feeling better now you can continue practicing your rope making. You''ll find the stuff in that bag there, Saeter exined as he pointed out a canvas bag.


    cknail gave the bag a wary look. That sounded very boring but at least he didnt have to go out into the forest.


    I expect to see some results when I get back, Saeter told him.


    He then jumped onto the wagon beside the goblin and rummaged through the bags for some things before jumping down and wandering off again.


    cknail watched him go with a sigh of resignation. Ughhh, rope making! He didnt even want to hear about something so boring, let alone actually do it. After pulling the necessary materials from the bag his master had pointed out the goblin got to work.


    cknail cast a gloomy gaze over to the humans walking behind the wagon. He wished he was free to just walk around like them and not have to work!


    The goblin started at it but after an hour or so he started to grow weary of the incredibly repetitive task. With a snort of disgust cknail dropped the cord he was working on onto the deck of the wagon.


    He was so bored! It was time to take a break. There had to be something around that would amuse him, at least for a little bit.


    He got to his feet and looked around, while being careful that the shaking of the wagon under him didn''t trip him up. cknail was surrounded by bags and crates.


    With a quick nce to make sure no one was looking the goblin scooted over and began to examine them. He opened one canvas bag and riffled through it but found nothing but human sized clothes inside. Why did humans need so many clothes? What possible use could they have for more than one or two sets each?


    He closed that bag and hurriedly moved on to the next. He found nothing but some sweet smelling ground up nt leaves in it. cknail was beginning to think that the bandits had to be a little off in the head to have attacked a caravan for this crap. None of it was even shiny!


    With a sigh, cknail got back to work on making cord until the wagons stopped and the bandits made camp for the night.


    It was then that he finally managed to weave a thin cord together! The goblin then amused himself by tying it to various things and pulling on it. It didn''t even break! He felt so proud to have made it.


    Saeter then reappeared and cknail excitedly helped him set up his tent. The goblin just had to untangle himself from all the rope hed tied to the wagon first. Not his best idea... but at least the cord worked!


    After they had a fire going and supper was cooking Saeter presented cknail with several rabbits he had caught earlier. Disappointingly, cknail didn''t get to eat them.


    His master had him learn to skin and prepare them. He was taught how to drain the blood by cutting their throats, peel the skin off, cut out the groin area, and slice open the bellies of rabbits to remove the organs.


    The cheerful goblin picked up this skill quickly and he soon ran out of carcasses to work on. He enjoyed the work but it seemed like a lot of effort when you could just eat the rabbit raw.


    As the evening gave way to night he slept beside his masters tent again with his dirty nket wrapped around himself and the stars shining in the dark sky overhead. Owls and other creatures he couldn''t identify called throughout the night but eventually cknail managed to slip asleep despite his nervousness.


    The next morning Saeter took cknail with him when he was sent out to prepare a forward base well ahead of the main group. Saeter, cknail, and several other bandits who were familiar with the forest spent numerous days quickly getting ahead of the rest of the band.


    They walked almost constantly during the day with only a few stops to collect water or eat. They didn''t have time to hunt so they had to make do with the rations they carried.


    At night they set up camp in the middle of the road and took turns keeping watch. cknail was not given a shift.


    The sound of howling woke cknail on the second day. It echoed loudly through the trees around him and down the road.


    The eerie howling reverberated through the forest. It would suddenlye from one direction only for the noise to die down and then pick up from another direction. cknail was just d that the howlers sounded too far away to be a real threat.


    Soon the noise drew Saeter out from his tent. After a second of listening the old scout turned to the goblin.


    Wolves, I showed you their tracks earlier. Don''t worry they''re just gossiping, Saeter told cknail with an uncharacteristic peaceful smile.


    He then stretched, closed his eyes, and took a few more seconds to listen.


    Beautiful, the sound of the North, he whispered to himself.


    The goblin didn''t understand. Wolves were the dog things right? He closed his eyes and listened as well, focusing on the sound of wolves over the forest.


    All the noise did however was fill him with wariness. Soon the noise begun to fade away, and cknail felt an unexpected twinge of regret. For a quick second the howling had seemed oddly familiar. It made no sense but for some reason it had reminded him of home


    After a quick tasty breakfast the bandits hit the road again. They turned off the main road and moved on to what could charitably be called a forest route.


    It was really a dirt path barely wide enough for a single wagon and it was very bumpy. cknail didn''t like this new path much; the trees loomed much closer along its narrower confines.


    As usual, that night they set up camp and posted a watch. Feeling somewhat excluded since he wasn''t given a turn cknail decided to stay up and help his master during his turn.


    After a brief supper and conversation around the fire everyone turned in for bed. This time however cknail forced himself to stay awake and wait.


    It was a dark moonless night. Clouds covered most of the sky. Outside the light of the fire everything was pitch ck. Only the dark outlines of trees could be seen shifting at the furthest reaches of the firelight.


    By the time it was Saeter''s watch the fire was dying down and cknail amused himself for a few minutes by throwing some more wood on it and watching the sparks fly up into the dark sky.


    The heat from the fire soon made him drowsy though, so he curled up beside it. Thest thing he saw before nodding off was Saeter''s back as his master stood at the edge of the light and gazed calmly out into the darkness.


    He tried again each night but cknail never managed to stay awake for any of Saeter''s watches. The closest the goblin ever came was when he awoke suddenly one night several dayster with an uneasy feeling eating at his guts.


    One second he was asleep and the next he was awake and on guard. He didn''t know why but he knew something had disturbed him, something dangerous.


    The goblins ears twitched as he listened and he automatically sniffed the air quietly. He sensed nothing. Slowly, he opened his eyes and looked around. Somehow he knew something was there even if he couldn''t see or smell it.


    The fire was very low, only a few slow burning coals were left smoldering. Most the humans were asleep around it with their bags and equipment beside them.


    Only one of the bandits was on watch and he was seated on a rock beside the fire drinking a cup of tea. He was obviously only barely paying attention to the area around himself.


    There was only a small sliver of moon in the sky but no clouds concealed it. Thus, there was enough light for cknail to see his surroundings fairly well. His amazing goblin night vision was much better than that of a mere human.


    The pale moonlit road stretched off into the shadowy trees to one side of him. Their group was camped on a hill beside it where the wind helped keep the mosquitoes away.


    To cknail''s eyes, the hill floated like an ind atop a dark pool of trees that shook and creaked in the wind like waves on ck water. He knew something lurked down there in the depths of the forest, watching him.


    Other than the wind and the rustling of leaves it was a quiet night though, too quiet. rmed, cknail realized he didn''t hear the usual sounds of night birds and prowling animals.


    That was a bad sign, very bad. The goblin peered out into the darkness drenched forest for the danger he could somehow sense but not identify.


    He heard leaves crunch off to one side and he quickly whirled around. However, the noise stopped as suddenly as it had begun. cknail froze and eyed the trees and bushes in that direction carefully but the forest concealed whaty within it too well for him to see anything.


    The sound of the goblin''s heartbeat grew louder in his ears. He knew something terrible was about to happen, but all he could do was stare into the imprable shadows before him. His anxiety began to wear him down as he grew twitchier and he started to get a pounding headache.


    The nearby leaves shook as somethingrge moved within them. The shadows convulsed around it and cknail hissed loudly in rm.


    Out from the darkness an answering low predatory growl erupted. Its force sent leaves and other debris fluttering forth into the camp from the forest.


    cknail''s hackles rose and his body tensed as the smell of the creature''s breath washed over him. He had never smelled anything like it.


    With an rmed look, the man by the fire shot to his feet and drew his sword. He hurried over to cknail''s side.


    Do you see anything, goblin? the swordsman asked cknail as he scanned the edge of the firelight.


    The man''s voice quivered with unease and his face looked white in moonlight.


    Clearly, he had been spooked by the noise, and cknail didn''t me him. The goblin shook his head in answer to the man''s question.


    Themotion woke some of the other men including Saeter who sat up and automatically reached for his bow and quiver. Slowly, cknail''s master got to his feet and drew his bow.


    Nothing happened for a few stagnant seconds. cknail heard more of the men get to their feet and arm themselves. He really wished they would hurry up.


    cknail twitched again as the sound of leaves and twigs being crunched by something heavy out in the darkness reached his ears. Whatever the thing in the woods was it had started moving again.


    cknail''s skin crawled and he felt a spike of terror tear through his heart. He heard the sounds of des being drawn and deep steady breaths as the men behind him readied themselves forbat with whatever horror was about to burst from the darkness upon them. The goblin got ready to run and hide behind them.


    Then, he realized the sound wasn''t moving closer. It was moving further away. Slowly, the rhythmic noise got quieter until it waspletely muffled by the forest. Only then did cknail rx and let out a deep breath.


    No one spoke for a few seconds. Most of the bandits had been awakened by themotion. They threw each other nervous looks and held their weapons close. Then, Saeter broke the silence as he rxed his bow.


    It''s gone. Make sure the man on watch stays alert and keeps the fire high. Scream loudly if something attacks you, Saeter said with a yawn as he settled back down to sleep.


    The man on watch gave Saeter an annoyed look and cknail gave his master a disbelieving one. How could he just go back to sleep?


    What was it? one of the bandits asked Saeter.


    cknail''s master turned to them from where hey on his nket.


    Dunno. Could have been an ogre taking a night stroll or a hungry drake that decided we weren''t worth the trouble. Let''s hope we never find out, Saeter replied crankily before then turning away and going back to sleep.


    Several of the other bandits whispered fearfully to each other for a few minutes before settling back down themselves. cknaily back down by the remains of the fire but was too nervous to sleep.


    He couldnt shake the feeling that the creature was still out there and just waiting for them all to rx their guard. If it attacked them while they were asleep they wouldnt stand a chance. The terrible hungry beast would rip them apart and chew on their bones

 Honor Among Thieves 2

    Honor Among Thieves 2


    cknail didnt get a lot of sleep that night. Instead, he anxiously gazed out into the woods for any sign of the creatures return. Eventually though, exhaustion overcame his fear and he lost his hold on consciousness.


    He dreamed of dark waters and pale worms with toothy maws swimming beneath him in strange patterns. It was far from the best dream hed ever had.


    The following morning he woke with a start but had only the faintest recollection of the visions that had disturbed his sleep. cknail was more than happy to let the memories slip from his mind as they once again got up and began walking.


    The group of bandits reached their destination around noon that day. The goblin was more than a little disappointed when he saw it. It was just a clearing along the abandoned road theyd been traveling on. Why had they walked so far just to move from one empty spot to another? Humans were stupid!


    The meadow was muchrger than the one they had been camped in before and it contained a small derelict building. Those were the only real differences cknail could see.


    It was a solid looking wooden building but it had clearly degraded over the years since it had been abandoned. The wooden door had fallen off and the thatch roof had long since rotted away. cknail stood off to the side of Saeter and listened in as he started talking to the other bandits.


    This used to be a farmhouse, and this overgrown meadow used to be farnd. When I was young homesteads like this dotted thesends. Now look at it, Saeter mused sorrowfully.


    Times are tough everywhere, Saeter. All the bloody kings and nobles have been at their damned pointless wars for decades now. At least up here in the North there are no press gangs and taxmen, one of the other scouts replied before spitting onto the ground.


    Saeter snorted disdainfully in response.


    No, there are only monsters, mutants, the City Killer, and a thousand other ways to die out here. Let''s also not forget about all the merciless bandits and deprived ouws, he countered with dark humor.


    Like I said, times are tough everywhere, the other replied simply with a shrug. Years of war will do that.


    The North would have toughed it out if not for the thrice damned City Killer, Saeter said with sudden heat that caused his face to flush with barely contained hatred.


    cknail almost took a step back from him in rm. His master never showed his anger like that! He was usually so in control. It scared the goblin more than a little. He could too easily imagine that wild rage being turned against him.


    Well, I wasn''t there so I wouldn''t know but I suspect you''re wrong about that. Things would have been better here were Coroulis still standing but the rest of the world would have still dragged the North down with it, the other bandit replied carefully as he watched Saeter out of the corner of his eye.


    We would have had a chance, though, Saeter said as his anger gave way to resignation. Ha, I really must be bing an old man because I''m starting to rant and grumble just like one.


    The other man just grunted in response and they both stared at the ruins in front of them for a while. cknail joined them but he didnt see anything interesting. Were they looking for something?


    After a few minutes they had to stop and help the other scouts work. Their group had a lot of work to do to get the new camp site ready for everyone elses arrival.


    First, they had to fix up the building up and clear thend. The tall grass and nts that grew in the clearing had to be cut and set out to dry in order to make thatch for the building''s roof and to clear an area for camping. They also went to work cutting down some of the nearby trees and stockpiling the wood and branches for both fuel and construction materials.


    As they worked one of the scouts stumbled upon an old well by the house. So they added repairing that to the list of things they needed to do. Luckily, they had over a dozen good workers and one over enthusiastic goblin.


    As they worked and waited for Herad and the wagons, Saeter sent scouts out to watch the road. He wanted to keep in contact with Herad and make sure no one could sneak up on them unaware.


    Even once they had finished most of the original jobs cknail was still kept busy helping his master with his usual duties once again. He ran about helping with hunting in the morning and chores in the afternoon.


    After several days of exploring the woods with Saeter the goblin began to feel morefortable out there. Being under the forest canopy wasnt so bad, as long as he stayed within three feet of his master at all times and didnt go anywhere too dark. The spiders lived in the gloom.


    He quickly picked up a lot of useful skills from doing so many chores every day. He was even rewarded with a small knife of his own. That was great because it showed that his master trusted him to be loyal, useful, and not to stab people.


    The first thing the goblin learned was how to set fires. Saeter showed him how to arrange the wood and tinder and set it alight with steel and flint, or by rubbing two pieces of wood together.


    A few impromptu fire starting practice sessionster Saeter snatched the flint and steel back. He then ordered the disappointed goblin not to practice anymore without permission. cknail didnt know what the big deal was. It had only been a small section of grass that had caught fire and together all the scouts had managed to stamp it out easily enough.


    Next he was put to work skinning rabbits again. When he ran out of carcasses to practice on Saeter took him out into the woods and showed him how to set the snares himself.


    He did this by bending a sapling down and tying it to a piece of cord with a noose on the end. A twig was tied to the cord right before the noose, and was held on the ground by a stake or another sapling. When the rabbit hit the noose it tightened and the movement caused the twig toe loose and the sapling to snap up. The rabbit was then pulled into the air and ended up hanging from the sapling.


    cknail learned exactly how the trap worked when he stepped on it and the noose snagged his foot. He was almost instantly sent sprawling as the trap yanked his feet out from under him. Luckily, he was too heavy to be pulled into the air so he just ended up falling on his ass. At least now he knew it worked.


    The hardest part of snaring rabbits was finding a rabbit trail or hole to ce the snare on. Saeter had to look for signs such as droppings, but cknail could simply smell rabbit trails and follow them.


    Rabbits cant hide from me. Me too great! cknail bragged smugly as he set up a trap.


    Good job, youve got the hang of this. Now you can empty and set the traps yourself each morning, Saeter replied as he watched the goblin work.


    Wow, hed just been given a job all of his own! The goblin couldnt believe his master trusted him to go out into the forest alone


    It danger. Me die, cknail replied in wide eyed shock.


    There was no way he could go out into the forest by himself! He was just a tiny little goblin. There were harpies, wolves, spiders, and other more dangerous things out there. cknail was fairly sure the forest existed solely to give all the things that ate goblins a ce to live.


    You know enough to keep yourself out of trouble, goblin, Saeter replied sternly with a hardened look in his eyes that showed he wasn''t asking, he wasmanding.


    Seeing that look cknail cringed, but he didnt move from where he was standing. Saeter took a step towards the goblin and raised a hand as if to strike him. cknail eyes went wide in rm. Yet after only a few steps Saeter stopped and scowled at the goblin.


    Herad isnt going to believe youre useful enough to keep around if you cant even walk into the woods by yourself, Saeter grimly exined to cknail.


    The goblin groaned. Ugh, he had been trying to forget about the dark eyed glowering chieftain. He didnt really have a choice so he gave his master a reluctant nod of eptance. This appeased Saeter somewhat, and he began preparing cknail for his first solo excursion.


    First, Saeter taught cknail how to use his knife against various other animals. The goblin was told to stab them in the eye or under their ribs into their heart or lungs. He was also told to watch out for teeth and ws. cknail didn''t really need to be told thatst part; he had already figured that out.


    Saeter then taught him how to throw a rock faster and more urately using a strip of cloth called a sling. This amazing invention deeply impressed the goblin. Hed always wanted to be able to throw rocks harder; it was the answer to almost every problem hed ever faced!


    cknail was also given a belt and some leather pouches to put things like ammo or food in. Thus armed and equipped cknail was ready to start making trips out into the woods alone. He was very proud of himself. Proud but ovee by terrified panic.


    Under his master''s watchful eye the goblin walked over to the edge of the woods and hesitantly took the first step through the bushes and into the forest.


    He then cast a look back over his shoulder to see Saeter walking back to camp. cknail gulped and his eyes widened in fear. He was all alone! Any second now a hideous monster was going to show up and eat him.


    For weeks he had either been right beside his master or surrounded by at least a dozen somewhat friendly humans. Now he was all alone out in the woods, or a few feet from the edge of it anyway.


    The snap of a twig somewhere off in the distance broke his concentration and caused him to twitch in fear. Something wasing! He yelped and scrambled over to therge exposed roots of a nearby tree.


    Quickly digging, the goblin widened the gap beneath some of the roots and dove down there to hide. From his vantage point at the entrance of his impromptu burrow the goblin warily eyed the green foliage and tree trunks around him.


    Nothing moved or made any more noise. cknail waited there in his hiding spot for several minutes ovee by terror.


    He wanted to dash back to the safety of the camp. The only thing stopping him was fear of what his master would do if he returned without the rabbits from the snares.


    Several more minutes passed as the goblin tried to think of some way to escape from his current predicament. If he tried to get the rabbits he would most likely be torn apart and eaten, if he stayed here under the roots he would slowly starve to death, and if he returned to camp his master would punish him. He didnt like any of those options.


    cknail had never directly disobeyed his master and didn''t know what Saeter would do if he did. It would probably be very bad but would it be worse than being eaten by harpies? He could always say the snares had been empty, Saeter might even believe it.


    Having made up his mind and decided that cowardice and begging for mercy were his best options the goblin slowly rose out from under the roots. He scanned his surroundings for any threats but the bushes around him and the branches overhead seemed empty.


    The clearing was also only a little more than a dozen feet away. Then he heard another crackling sound from somewhere behind him. cknail dashed frantically towards the clearing and safety. He didn''t want to be eaten!


    With an imaginary host of monsters chasing him the goblin burst from the shrubs into the clearing as fast as his little legs would carry him, and almost ran right into Saeter.


    Much to cknail''s surprise his master stood only a few feet away and was calmly watching the goblin. cknail froze, or at least he tried.


    He was moving so fast that he tripped over his own feet and was sent cart-wheeling painfully across the ground. His head bounced painfully off a rock but luckily he didnt get hurt anywhere important.


    Saeter was still standing there silently as cknail tentatively got to his feet. The goblin brushed himself off and threw his master a nervous nce.


    All thoughts of lying to his master were banished by a wave of shame and fear, plus Saeter had probably been standing there the entire time watching.


    There was noise! cknail whined piteously as he gave his master a pleading look.


    Saeter frowned at him and shook his head disdainfully. cknail cringed again. Why had he used such a stupid excuse, he could havee up with a much better one.


    Take all the time you want cknail but you won''t be getting any food until you bring back the rabbits, and I wouldn''t be going out there after dark if I were you, Saeter told cknail calmly but harshly.


    The goblin shivered at the very thought of being out in the forest at night. Everything was worse at night! cknail stood there for a few seconds and gathered his thoughts. Saeter just stood there and observed the goblin.


    With a sigh of resignation cknail realized he had no choice but to go out and empty the snares, unless several rabbits suddenly decided to run up and let him choke them to death one at a time. That seemed unlikely though.


    Trying to banish his fear cknail stood tall, turned around, and walked back over to the edge of the trees and out into the forest again.


    This time he forced himself forward more sessfully. When he next heard a noise he merely threw himself violently to the ground and froze there for a few frantic heart beats instead of running back. He was making progress!


    When nothing happened he rose to his feet and continued on. Every time he heard a noise he twitched in panic but didnt run.


    cknail crept slowly forward towards the snares by moving slowly from hiding spot to hiding spot. He concealed himself up against tree trunks, under fallen logs, in thick bushes, and behind tall grass.


    Eventually, he made his way to the snares and got the rabbits. Then after looking around to make sure nothing dangerous was about to eat him he threw caution to the wind and dashed back to Saeter as fast as he could.


    When he returned the sun had moved a fair distance in the sky, but Saeter made noment. He simply took the rabbits from the goblin and set him to work on another chore. However, much to cknail''s surprise he was fed an extrarge meal that night.


    He was also forced out into the bush the next morning, and every day after that as well. Obviously, cknails master didnt really understand how rewards were supposed to work.


    Soon, the goblin got used to being out in the forest alone, even if he really didn''t like it.


    Then one day it urred to cknail only he knew how many rabbits he actually caught every day. The goblin tried to fight the temptation, briefly, but he secretly began to eat the asional rabbit himself out in the bush. He just couldn''t help himself!


    Saeter never let him eat the rabbits raw, and cknail loved them that way. They were so juicy and warm, even if the fur was icky and sometimes got caught in his throat.


    Why did humans feel the need to burn everything? Anyway, it''s not like he was doing anyone any harm, he caught so many rabbits that Saeter was giving them away!


    Of course, he wasn''t always doing chores. Every night Saeter would throw some of the rabbits into a pot of boiling water. Then he added a bunch of nts to create something called stew.


    The other bandits who were out scouting or doing other work during the day would thene over and they would all feast. The stew was an all right mix of tastes but cknail loved it because it was the only meal he was allowed to eat as much as he wanted.


    His master usually only gave him small meals so he was almost always hungry. He had to forage for the rest when he had time, and Saeter kept him constantly busy.


    The other humans that joined them for supper tended to be the quiet sort, like cknail''s master. That was probably they were all men who spent a lot of time in the forest where making too much noise was dangerous.


    None of them talked to him nearly as much as Vorscha or Geralhd but they werent hostile either. They mostly ignored him although one or two would throw him scraps when Saeter wasn''t looking, mostly to annoy his master.


    None the less, it was the first time cknail felt he really belonged with a group of humans and not just his master Saeter.


    After he begun bringing back more rabbits then they could reasonably use Saeter had him start digging smoking pits. First he dug a hole up to his waist, a little bit more than 2 feet deep. Saeter had wanted him to use a shovel but he found it faster to just use his hands. He was a great digger!


    A fire was then lit at the bottom of the pit and allowed to burn down to coals, than it was fed green hardwood to produce smoke. A grill of small crisscrossing branches was ced three fourths of the way up. Meat was then cut into small thin strips and ced on the grill. Finally, the pit was covered with branches and leaves to keep the smoke in. When the meat became brittle and dry it was done.


    Apparently, this made the meatst longer and easier to carry around with you, but cknail mostly just liked the meats smoky taste. It also gave him a chance to set fires; he liked fire.


    Of course, all these activities required constant use of his knife so Saeter had to show him how to sharpen it using a whetstone and care for it using oil. It also resulted in a lot of bloody rabbit pelts lying around everywhere so next Saeter showed him how to tan them.


    To tan an animal skin it was scraped to remove the flesh, washed thoroughly in water, and then stretched out to dry for several days. To cknail''s delight next he was told to break open the rabbit''s skull, boil the brains in a bucket of water, and then smear the resulting gunk onto the hide by hand. It was so much fun! Saeter had to smack him several times to stop him from licking his fingers while he worked but he still enjoyed himself.


    The hide was then left overnight where it wouldn''t dry out. Next, the pelt was repetitively stretched and softened until dry, which was fun for the first while anyway but got old fast. Finally, it was ced over a smoky fire for several hours to dry.


    Saeter gave several of the finished pelts to cknail, since he had no real use for them. The goblin had used them to make pants! Pants were apparently very important, and they certainly made sitting down morefortable. No more idently sitting on pine cones for him!


    Hed also managed to stitch together a mismatched rabbit skin cape. Saeter had been the one to teach him how.


    Saeter wasnt happy with cknail having only one pair of shorts; he made the goblin make a second one. The goblin was supposed to wear one and wash the other. How stupid was that?


    Stinky clothes just made it harder for animals to smell you! Saeter of course disagreed and made him change into clean, or at least sort of cleanish clothes every few days.


    Well, Ive certainly turned you into a productive little helper, Saeter told cknail proudly one afternoon after the goblin had finished his chores.


    cknail smiled and nodded cheerfully in response to the praise. He was happy to be useful but he thought maybe he deserved more of the credit for his own work.


    Youll sure startle everyone, Saeter mused as he smiled wickedly in anticipation.


    As they waited for the wagons to catch up cknail was kept very busy. He was perhaps a little too useful for his own good. It got to the point where every time cknail saw a rabbit in a snare the first thing that came to mind was how much work preparing it was going to be.


    So of course, he started eating more of them raw and throwing away the remains. He thought it was the perfect n, but Saeter wasnt fooled. After a painful whack on his behind the goblins meals were reduced for a few days as punishment. In hindsight, he really should have spent a little more time wiping all the blood from his mouth before making his way back to camp.

 Honor Among Thieves 3

    Honor Among Thieves 3


    The next two weeks went by in a blur of chores but ended in a bang when the wagons and Herad finally arrived.


    It was a cool overcast day and it had rained lightly on and off that morning. cknail was d he had his cape. He didn''t mind being cold or wet, but he hated being cold and wet at the same time. He shivered and snuggled into the thick fur on the inside of his clothes for warmth.


    Finally! They sure arete, one of the men who had stayed at the camp with Saeter and cknail said.


    Several of the camp''s upants hade out to see the wagons arrive, including Saeter.


    I''m not surprised theyre behind schedule. It''s still too early in the year for the road to bepletely dry. Getting those wagons along must have been tough. We''re lucky it just started raining this morning, another replied.


    Maybe we will get paid before winter now, the first one joked, which caused a few of the other men to chuckle humorously.


    After a few minutes, when nothing more exciting than a bunch of wet and dirty men trudging across a muddy road with some rickety wagons appeared the watchers started wandering off.


    Saeter however headed over to the wagons and as usual cknail followed him.


    They passed dozens of miserable looking ouws in soaked leather and furs as they trudged down the muddy road. A few of them gave Saeter and his goblin hostile or curious nces but most of them seemed far too tired to care about what was going on around them.


    Saeter headed for the back of the train of wagons. There, Herad was supervising the removal of goods from a broken wagon.


    The wooden wagony on an angle at the side of the road. One of the front wheels had poppedpletely off leaving a broken wooden axle exposed.


    Under their leaders watchful eyes several men were removing goods from the damaged wagon and either tying them to the horse that had been untied from the wagon or carrying them down the road by hand.


    Herad looked furious and only a few moments away from violence, but then again she almost always did. Saeter stopped several feet from Herad but within her sight and waited patiently. cknail hid behind him, trying not to attract Herad''s attention.


    After a few moments Herad turned her scowl their way. She was dressed in her usual dark leather armor which was decorated with an assortment of des. Her cloak''s hood was pulled up to protect her from the rain and water dripped down it.


    Youd better have a nice bonfire going and my shelter ready when I get to camp. I didn''t send you ahead so you could ck off, she told Saeter as she turned to face him.


    I do, as well as some hot deer stew, Saeter replied seemingly unconcerned.


    You''ll make someone a wonderful wife someday, Herad remarked bitingly.


    I fear I''m well past the marriageable age, he answered deadpan.


    Herad smiled darkly at him in response. She was clearly amused.


    That''s what I like about you Saeter. You walk the fine line between never arguing with me and not always agreeing with me either, she told him.


    How''s our status? she continued seriously after a brief pause.


    Camp is set up. We have food, fire, and some lean-to set up for the men. The old farmhouse has been patched up for you, Saeter reported.


    The roads? she asked.


    Scouts haven''t seen anything on the road ahead. I''ve had riders down onto the main road to Riverdown and they haven''t seen anything unusual either. No sign of any patrols or traps. Not that the patrols ever leave the main roads anyway. I''m more worried about some other band of brigands getting wind of our haul. I haven''t seen any sign of that though. The messengers you sent to the city to meet your contacts are away and have probably gotten there by now, he reported.


    Good, Herad grunted simply in response.


    We haven''t even lost anyone in the forest yet. Bad luck that, Saeter added after a second of thought. Herad gave him a skeptical look.


    Its bad luck that we haven''t lost anyone to the woods? she asked him dryly.


    The forest always gets someone eventually. That it hasn''t yet only means it could still be me this time, he replied.


    Bushman superstition, she huffed in annoyance. If you''re that worried about it then you could always throw your little pet goblin there to the wolves.


    The goblin shied away from her. He wasn''t sure how serious to take any of herments. She didnt seem to like him much.


    He''s still pretty scrawny. They''d probably juste back for seconds, Saeter told her with a brief nce at the goblin and the barest hint of humor in his voice.


    Well, since you''vested this long without being eaten by something I think you''ll be fine for a while yet Saeter. That said, I want you and the other scouts out there making sure nothing dangerous from the deep woods surprises us. If you see signs of something, I want to know right away. Also, the more food you can scrounge up the less we have to buy, she told him before pausing for a second to think.


    We''re going to be here a while as we wait for the buyers from Riverdown to get here, and take this stuff off our hands. I don''t want any nasty surprises while we wait, she finished.


    You know that neither I nor anyone else can make any promises when ites to the forest Herad, but I will do my job, he told her gravely.


    How professional, your best had just better be good enough. I''ll talk with youter when I get things in order here. Find something useful to do with yourself in the mean time, she replied dismissively.


    Saeter nodded and she turned away. Then cknail and his master headed back down the road to camp. The goblin threw onest nervous look backwards at Herad. Saeter noticed his nervous demeanor.


    You dont need to be so scared of her, cknail, he told the goblin.


    She''s mean and scary, master, he whimpered in response.


    Dangerous too, or she wouldn''t still be the boss. There isn''t any such thing as a nice bandit but Herad has her own twisted sense of fairness and she sticks to it. Which is more than most the scum out here have, Saeter exined as they walked down the muddy forest road.


    cknail nodded when his master stopped talking. Not in agreement though, but because he should always be seen to agree with his master. He was still going to avoid Herad as much as possible. She looked at him like he was a bug and she was still deciding whether or not to squish him.


    As they approached the encampment someone called out to them.


    Well if it isn''t old man Saeter and his ever faithfulpanion, cknail the goblin. I haven''t had the pleasure of yourpany in awhile. I guess it''s because you''ve been here living it up, sleeping in one ce, resting all day, and eating all the good food while I''ve been out on the road walking endlessly and staring at the back of a bloody wagon, Geralhd yelled with decidedly fake cheer.


    The skinny man was seated on the ground underneath a canvas that had been set up to block the rain and was massaging one of his feet with both hands. He had unstrapped and taken off his socks and boots and they were sitting on the ground beside him.


    Yes, thats exactly how we spent our time, Saeter responded sarcastically.


    Ah Saeter, never lose that sunny disposition and glib tongue of yours. The world would be a darker ce without it, and then I would have no one to engage in philosophical discourse with. Garalhd responded back with his own sarcasm.


    A secondter he winced as he touched a sore spot on his foot.


    What are you doing here? Saeter asked him pointedly.


    Well, if you mean why am I here on this lovely earth and for what purpose do I exist then I guess we will be having that philosophical debate after all, Geralhd responded as he smiled. However, if you are asking how it is I found myself wanted by the crown and squatting in a mud pit among such illustriouspany then I shall have to respond that it is because I killed the right person.


    Why are you bothering me? Saeter rified as Geralhd shrugged.


    A man must amuse himself somehow if he is to stay sane and, just between us, I have to admit that somehow against all odds you''re actually one of the more pleasant people to be around in our little pack of viins, he answered with a theatrical sigh.


    Go bug Vorscha, Saeter suggested.


    s, thedy is busy with a task from our inexorablemander... Geralhd began but Saeter cut him off with a loud snort.


    Ah, yes well since we''re being so discerning here I must admit that while she is a wonderful woman, Vorscha is s not verydylike. I have certainly never seen ady eat a meat pie quite like Vorscha does, Geralhd admitted with wide eyes and a fake shudder.


    cknail thought he saw the faint traces of a smile appear on Saeter''s lips as Geralhd spoke. The younger man then turned to the goblin and gave him an appraising look.


    Hello, cknail. I must apologize for ignoring you while Saeter and I engaged in our usual longwinded banter. You seem taller. Oh, and I mustpliment you on your new clothes! Your own work I presume? Geralhd asked.


    Yes, I made, cknail answered proudly as he looked down at his rabbit skin pants and cape. Their ragged patchwork surfaces were soaked by the rain.


    So I had guessed. They are certainly... unique looking, Geralhd remarked. Before he could say any more Saeter cut him off again.


    If you''re done insulting cknail''s clothes I''ll be leaving. Also, I notice you''re not wearing those fancy clothes you first showed up in. Perhaps, unlike the goblin you''re incapable of making or even repairing your own clothes, he huffed.


    Geralhd had been insulting his clothes? cknail felt his pride wilt. He thought his cape was nice and cozy. Geralhd saw the goblin''s face fall.


    Tsk, your master is being dramatic cknail. I was just having fun; I like your clothes. They''re very practical, he added.


    Geralhd then got up and patted cknail on the head. Saeter scowled at them and rolled his eyes.


    Come on cknail. We have work to do, Saetermanded. He then stomped off to his campsite. cknail turned to follow but Geralhd called out to him.


    Come see me at supper time tonight cknail and I''ll have a treat for you, Geralhd told him with a friendly goodbye wave.


    The man then sat back down and started massaging his now dirty feet again.


    After cknail caught up to his master they grabbed their gear and headed out into the woods. The result was a rather unproductive slog through the rain drenched forest. The only animals they ran into were spine toads, and you couldnt eat those.


    Therge green frogs came out in the rain and camouged in with the grass and leafy nts that littered the ground. Their backs were covered in poisonous spines so the goblin and his master had to watch where they stepped.


    Eventually, Saeter was forced to admit defeat and return to the encampment empty handed and very wet. It had stopped raining but everything was still covered in water and muddy.


    If he had been miserable before, then Saeter was truly and deeply unhappy now. cknail heard him muttering to himself as they headed over to their campfire to dry.


    After a few minutes of work they got the campfire going and its crackling mes started to warm them up. Saeter hung his clothes up to dry and cknail cheerfully added his cape to the drying rack as well. The old scout then turned to the goblin.


    I''m going to take a break. You can practice something or other, he muttered to cknail irritably.


    The old scout then ducked into his tent and closed the p. cknail heard himy down and his breathing deepen as he fell asleep.


    As his master had instructed, cknail started practicing. The first thing he practiced was how to curl up next to the fire and take a nap. You could never be good enough at that.


    cknail awoke with a tired yawn. As he sleepily opened his eye he noticed it was quite a bit darker out. The sun had begun to set and the shadows had lengthened. Most the campfires around him had been lit and they had people sitting around them.


    Saeters''s fire was running low so the goblin threw some more wood on it. He liked watching things burn; it was pretty. As he was working a cool breeze blew through the trees and into the camp. The hungry mes red up and cknail jumped nervously backwards for a moment.


    The scent of various cooking foods also reached cknails nose. Most the bandits seemed to be settling down to eat.


    cknails own stomach grumbled. He hadn''t eaten supper yet. He threw a nce at Saeter''s tent and listened. He heard the deep breathing of sleep from within the tent and sighed. He wouldnt be getting any food from there.


    Then with a sh of excitement the goblin remembered Geralhd''s promise. It was supper time! If he found Geralhd then the man would have a treat for him. Where was he, though?


    cknail wandered around until he found himself at the southern edge of the camp. Several men were seated at a campfire off to his right, one of whom was ring at him angrily.


    cknail ignored him and looked around for Geralhd or Vorscha. They would probably be together. The skinny man was obviously the womans subordinate.


    After a quick scan, he saw Geralhd up ahead at another camp fire. cknail smiled in glee and sprang excitedly towards him. It was time for a snack! He hoped it would be a tasty one.


    Suddenly, he heard a loud twang followed by the sound of something impacting the ground behind him hard. The startled goblin yelped in surprise and jumped off to the side,nding on all fours. His heart was beating loudly in his chest and there was an arrow quivering in the ground right beside where he had just been standing.


    What was this? cknail nervously looked up to see that the ring man was now standing up and had an empty bow in his hands. The man''s thick face was contorted by an expression of anger and sadistic glee.


    He was arge human with broad shoulder, short greasy ck hair, and a grin that revealed a few missing teeth. His chin was covered in dark stubble and as he looked at the goblin he burst outughing.


    Look at that ugly critter jump! You go back to your senile keeper now and don''t wander around stinking up the ce, or next time I''m gonna put an arrow through your eye, the man viciously told the goblin.


    The other two men at the campfire grinned and startedughing as well. cknail felt a wave of panic and got ready to flee at the first opportunity.


    He hissed in rm and started to back away. Apparently, this offended the big man because he scowled and took a step towards the goblin. As he moved he drew arge knife and an angry grimace appeared on his face.


    I''m gonna cut your little green ears off and make myself a ne, the man said with eyes narrowed in anger as he advanced upon the small figure of the goblin.


    There was no way cknail could fight such a huge human so he was going to have to run away. The trick would be to make it back to Saeters camp alive


    What in all the hells are you doing? an angry voice interjected all of a sudden.


    Everyone nced over towards the voice and saw Geralhd approaching with a furious looking scowl on his face. Seeing him approach the other two men got up and stood behind their big friend. Clearly, they were hisckeys.


    None of your damn business, pansy, the big man growled back at Geralhd.


    I think it is, Dafur, Geralhd responded. See, I was the one that invited that goblin over and here you are getting in his way. I have a problem with that. Not to mention Saeter is going to be furious when he hears about yourtest bit of stupidity here.


    The big man named Dafur narrowed his eyes. He looked to be almost twice Geralhd''s size.


    I ain''t afraid of that old fool Saeter and I ain''t afraid of your bitch Vorscha. She''s not here to protect you anyways, pansy. So you scuttle along because for damn sure I ain''t afraid of a skinny wimp like you, Dafur bragged.


    I can take care of myself, Geralhd responded heatedly as his hand moved to the dagger at his hip.


    Dafur must have sensed fear though, because he smiled down at the smaller man and stalked towards him. However, Geralhd held his ground and drew his dagger.


    Dafur suddenly lunged, moving faster than hisrge size suggested. His dagger arced around and shed at Geralhd''s face. The smaller man''s eyes widened in surprise but he managed to tuck his chin in and dodge below the attack. However, the dagger grazed his shoulder and bit deep enough to draw blood.


    Instead of retreating though, Geralhd leaned under Dafur''s extended arm and stabbed towards his chest. Dafur twisted out of the way but received a shallow cut of his own.


    However, Geralhd attack left him overextended. He stumbled and Dafur''s big meaty fist swung around and impacted his face.


    With a loud smacking sound Geralhd was sent spinning onto the ground. He quickly tried to stand up but couldnt quite manage it. The blow had left him stunned.


    All he could do was hold his nose as blood leaked from it and groan as Dafur moved closer. Therger man towered over him with a cruel smile on his lips. He held the cut on his chest with one hand and his dagger in the other.


    I''m going to kill you now, you damned pansy, Dafur growled.


    cknail froze in panic. His mind raced as he tried to think of a way to save Gerahld but he couldnt think of anything. Fighting wouldnt work. A goblin would be killed if he hurt a human, and death was even worse than losing a good source of treats. Besides, how could a little goblin like him fight such a giant man?


    Suddenly, a new voice spoke up.


    How about me Dafur, are you afraid of me? Herad asked as she detached herself from the shadows and strode over.


    Dafur''sckeys jumped in surprise but the man himself just scowled. He threw Geralhd an angry look and fingered the knife in his hand before turning back to Herad.


    This goblin attacked me, and when I tried to catch it Geralhd here tried to stab me while I was distracted. I was just defending myself. These two saw it, he told her as he indicated hisckeys.


    Herad simply tilted her head slightly to show her skepticism. Her eyes grew colder and her smile tighter as she looked the big man over.


    I have only a few simple rules, as you should all know well. First, you do as I say. Second, you don''t lie to me. The third andst is you don''t fight or run without permission. You have now broken two of those rules, she exined.


    Dafur hesitated again but then a defiant look appeared on his face. He gazed down at Herad as ifparing their sizes. Therge man was many times Herad''s weight. He raised his knife.


    Now look here b... he started to say.


    However, his speech stopped as Herad pushed the tip of one of her daggers up through the bottom of his jaw and into his brain.


    He hadn''t even seen the deing. He just blinked in pained confusion as she pulled it back out of his skull.


    Herad had moved almost too quickly for cknail to see. Her hand and the dagger seemed to just instantly move from one point to another without going through the space between.


    Dafur''s eyes rolled up into his head and he made several brief choking noises as he copsed into a pile of rapidly spreading blood on the ground. Herad calmly wiped her de clean with a rag and re-sheathed it.


    So very stupid, she said to no one in particr as she turned to theckeys.


    Dispose of the body, now, she told them.


    With terrified expressions they nodded and jumped to obey.


    After throwing Dafur''s corpse onest disgusted look, Herad started walking alone towards the center of the camp. The dark aura she exuded discouraged anyone from following her, not that anyone wanted to.


    Geralhd got unsteadily to his feet while still holding his bloody noise. He looked worse for wear. His clothes were dirty and ruffled.


    I think I could have won that fight myself but a gentleman never turns down timely aid, he asserted proudly while staring off into the direction Herad had gone.


    cknail gave him a dubious look. He had a very different opinion on the mans chances of victory. The small man had been seconds away from death.


    I really need another drink. You still want that treat? Geralhd asked the goblin as he wiped some of the blood from his face.

 Honor Among Thieves 4

    Honor Among Thieves 4


    After an uneventful night, cknail was woken up early the next morning and sent out to check the rabbit snares. He had done it plenty of times now and was no longer afraid of going out into the woods alone. His fear and been reced by familiarity, at least as long as he was only making the short trip to the snares and back.


    cknail yawned as he wandered through the bushes at the edge of the forest. His memories of his old life in the sewers had begun to fade. As dangerous as it was here, the camp had be his new home.


    It wasnt like there was any possible way to get back there anyway. The sewers were many days away through the forest, and that wasnt a journey he ever nned on making.


    His new life did have perks. For one thing, the forest smelled much better than the sewers.


    He missed being around other goblins sometimes, especially the females, but in the sewers hed mostly just fought the other goblins anyway. Theyd fought over hierarchy, food, shiny things, mates, and of course just because theyd been bored.


    Besides, even though humans were so big and scary they sometimes gave him treats and praised him. No goblin had ever given cknail tasty things, unless hed beaten them up first.


    The morning sun was shining sedately through the loose roof of leaves above him. It was a warm clear day without a single cloud visible in the sky. The morning birds sang joyfully in the trees either ignoring or ignorant of the goblin strolling along beneath them.


    cknail stopped for a second to listen to the bird song and scan the grass and tall nts around him. As he stood motionless his green skin and hide clothes blended into the surrounding, camouging him.


    After listening attentively for a while, cknail heard and saw nothing unusual so he continued his stroll. There didnt seem to be anything dangerous around.


    He moved casually but kept an eye and ear open for anything out of ce. If there was one lesson Saeter made sure he never forgot it was that no one was ever truly safe out in the forest. He would hate to let his master down by dying some horrific death.


    The wary little goblin soon reached the snares, but just as he was about to get to work he heard an unexpected noise. What was that? cknail twitched in surprise and spun around. Was it a terrible monster about to leap out and eat him?


    It probably wasnt; the grass under one of the triggered snares was just rustling. The goblin didnt think anything really dangerous could hide in so small a patch of grass. It was probably a bird or something.


    cknail narrowed his eyes and quietly drew his sling anyway. Something might be trying to steal his rabbit! He couldn''t see what was making the noise from his position so he circled around a tree to get a better angle.


    As cknail watched, something started to try and climb the sapling a rabbit hung from. The goblins eyes widened as he looked on in surprise. He had no idea what the freakish thing was.


    How could it even move? It was just a blob of liquidy stuff! It was like a see though pile of snot with a bunch of weird shapes floating in it. Yet, it was moving and actually managing to slowly work its way up the sapling. It looked really wrong, like water flowing uphill but uglier.


    cknail hit it with a stone from his sling just on general principles. The blob of slime quivered and froze for a second before falling to the ground with a weird muted sshing noise.


    Had he killed it? He hoped so. Well, apparently he hadnt because as the goblin watched it reformed itself into a round blob and started oozing towards him with surprising speed.


    Uh oh, it was headed his way! How could such a weird thing move? He hit it with another stone in the hopes that would stop it.


    The slime quivered on impact and the stone sank into the blob but a secondter it popped out again with wet slurping noise and fell to the ground. It also kept closing the distance between them so cknail swiftly took a nervous step back.


    He didn''t know how dangerous the freaky booger ball was. He was pretty sure Saeter had never mentioned anything like it to him, or at least not when hed been paying attention.


    cknail circled around his mysterious opponent warily. Every once and a while it would put on a burst of speed and ooze towards him over the forest floor but the goblin deftly dodged it every time.


    Ha, he was faster than the stupid thing! Now, he just had to find a way to hurt it before it found a way to hurt him.


    Suddenly, the blob burst towards him again and he moved to dodge. Or at least he tried.


    As he went to jump away something tugged on his neck sharply and choked him. His inconvenient momentum caused his feet to fly out from under him and hended hard on his tailbone. Ow, his poor ass!


    He then watched in wide eyed horror as therge blob of slime descended on him. With a wet smack it crossed the ground and enveloped his arm.


    Eeek, off off, cknail yelled as he iled and tried to get free but the transparent blob was stuck fast.


    The terrified goblin tried to climb to his feet but the slime had a grip on his arm and wouldn''t let go, no matter how hard he pulled. He yelped in fear as the thing began to climb up his arm towards his head.


    This was not good! Desperately, cknail tried to w at it with his free hand but it just reformed around the cuts. No, that wasn''t fair! He began kicking at it with his feet but stopped when one foot sunk into the thing and became stuck as well.


    Not his best n ever... At least it seemed to confuse the thing because it stopped climbing his arm, for the moment anyway.


    cknail whimpered and frantically tried to think. He wasn''t just any stupid goblin. He was cknail! What would Saeter or another human do? Come on think! A human would... use a tool. cknail felt a sh of hope. That''s right, he had a tool.


    The goblin reached with his free hand and drew the knife Saeter had given him. Desperately, he stabbed the slime several time but it still didn''t do any permanent damage. The ooze just flowed back after he cut it.


    What next? He looked his opponent over as the slime begun sucking him in again, this time by both his caught limbs. With a chill, cknail realized he was going to die unless he thought of something.


    Think! Maybe he should attack the weird things floating in the slime. Frantically, he tried to stab the ones closest to him but they were too deep and the knife couldn''t reach them.


    To his horror he felt the wet edge of the slime begun to climb his neck. He shivered with dread as he squirmed trapped upon the ground by the slime''s weight and sticky hold.


    He had a sudden idea, but it was desperate and stupid. He didn''t want to do it but he was running out of time. He was pretty sure he wouldn''t be able to breathe whatever this thing was made of. The very thought of the slime encasing his head and flowing down his nose and mouth was horrible.


    Taking a deep breath cknail steeled his resolve and pulled back his arm back. He then stabbed the thing as hard as he could. His arm sank deep into the slime and was caught. He wouldn''t be able to get it out or attack the slime again and now he only had a single foot left, which didn''t do him a lot of good.


    However, much to his relief he saw that the de of the knife in his hand had managed to reach its target. The ckish sac like thing floating in the slime was impaled on the knife and dark fluid begun to spill out and mix with the transparent slime. cknail watched wide eyed and desperately hoped that he had actually done something and that he wouldn''t soon be eaten alive.


    The blob rippled with small waves then convulsed crazily. To his horror cknail was sucked further in and his face was enveloped. Then just as suddenly the goblin was spat out in a ssh of slime. He gasped for breath and sucked down air joyously. He was free, and not dead!


    As the ck liquid spread throughout the rest of the blob it started to dissolve. cknaily on the ground covered in icky weird smelling ooze and watched as the creature expired with a loud gurgling noise. Eventually, only a smelly stain and several weird twisted organs remained.


    cknail picked himself off the ground and tried to wipe the slime off his skin and clothes. He grinned in excitement. Wow, was he ever d to be alive. That had been extremely close!


    After the goblin gave up cleaning himself off, he turned to look at the remains of the creature. It was mostly just smelly gunk, which he had more than enough of, but he spotted something shiny in among the remains. It was a small crystal!


    cknail stashed the crystal in one of his pouches and headed back to camp. A few minutester he remembered he was supposed to be checking the snares and swiftly turned around again.


    He collected the rabbit carcasses and hurried back to Saeter. He was already veryte. His master would be wondering where hed gone. He scurried down the path as fast as he could and still maintain a bit of stealth and awareness.


    He made it close to the camp without any more trouble. Although he startled one of the bandit scouts as he ran past him on the trail. The man gave him a very surprised look as he passed. cknail ignored him and hurried home.


    He exited the forest and immediately headed through the camp towards Saeter''s tent. He really wanted to brag about his victory!


    Several people gave him odd nces as he passed because he was still covered in quite a bit of slime. It dribbled down his as he ran. They didnt stop him however and he soon arrived at the tent.


    Luckily for him, Saeter was seated out front on a stump oiling some of his tools. As cknail ran over and threw the rabbit carcasses unceremoniously on the ground Saeter looked up. He examined the goblin with an exasperated expression.


    In the name of all that is holy what have you been up to now? he asked with troubled tone.


    cknail was excited to show off so he reached down and pulled the orb from the pouch at his belt and shoved it into Saeter''s face.


    I take from bad puddle, he eximed with pride.


    Saeter leaned back away from the orb that had been shoved in his face and eyed it carefully. A very confused look came over his features.


    A bad puddle? he repeated without understanding.


    The old scout gave cknail a questioning look and took the crystal from him. He rotated in his hands as he examined it.


    Slimy smelly thing, cknail exined excitedly.


    He wanted his master to realize how great a hunter and fighter he was.


    Slimy... a slime? You fought a slime, and this is its crystal, Saeter said with surprise as his brow tightened with concern.


    Where exactly did you fight the slime, he asked in a serious tone.


    cknail was more than happy to answer.


    At rabbit traps. Tried to steal but I stop. It grab but I stab good, cknail answered as his backs straightened with pride.


    While the goblin talked his master started to look vaguely impressed, this caused cknail to grow even happier with himself. Truly, he was great and mighty goblin.


    You beat a slime yourself eh? Must have been a small dud, but good work, Saeter replied as he stood up.


    Not small, huge. Bigger than me, cknail exaggerated as he extended his arms to show how big it had been.


    He still wanted more praise but Saeter just gave him an amused but doubtful look before examining the crystal again.


    What''s that? cknail asked his master.


    It''s the slime''s crystal. They all have one. Slimes only grow in crystal caves. Let''s hope there isn''t one nearby. They''re very dangerous, the only ce more dangerous than the forest in the Iron Teeth, he exined.


    Badder than spiders? cknail asked doubtfully.


    Yes, Seater replied with a grumble of irritation. I''m going to have to inform Herad.


    With amand to cknail to follow, Saeter marched off towards the old farmhouse that Herad had taken over as hermand post. cknail usually avoided it because Herad was a scarydy.


    The thatch on the roof had been reced and the door had been reattached. The repairs were crude looking but serviceable. Of course the crudest thing about it was the pair of thugs standing guard out front.


    They were two big ugly human brutes who really seemed to be not so much standing guard as hanging out there with bored expressions on their face because they had nowhere better to be. As Saeter approached he addressed one of them.


    Is Herad in? he asked gruffly.


    Ya, she''s in there, the guard answered him casually.


    Neither guard bothered to block them as they approached.


    I''d like to talk to her, Saeter told them.


    The two guards looked at each other and with a sigh the further one turned to the door of the house and knocked.


    Boss, Saeter''s here to see you, he announced to the closed door.


    After a minute he stepped out of the way and the door opened to reveal Herad ring down at them.


    She wore her usual leather but her cloak and most her knives were missing. Candlelight flickered behind her illuminating the interior of the dark house. At his master''s side cknail instinctively slouched down to make himself less noticeable.


    Normally I''d ask if this was important but since it''s you Saeter I know you wouldn''t show your face without a good reason, shemented irritably as she stepped out to talk with him.


    Saeter watched her as she descended the short steps in front of the door. She met his eyes and gave him an amused smile.


    My goblin cknail was out checking the snares this morning, he told her with a gesture in the goblins direction.


    Fascinating, but as much as I love hearing a man brag about his pet please get to the point, she replied with a roll of her eyes.


    When he came back he was covered in slime and had a crystal core. He told me he fought a small slime that was trying to get at the snares. I thought you would want to know, Saeter told her. cknail huffed in displeasure. It had been a giant monster slime, not a small one! Saeter hadn''t even seen it.


    Herad frowned and scowled in annoyance when Saeter had finished speaking. However Saeter was clearly not the target of her displeasure.


    You think it''s a sign there might be a crystal cave around? she asked him.


    Yes, there has to be one around somewhere. The question is how close. The slime could have wandered a fair distance. It probably did since we haven''t already seen more crystal beasts or mutants, Saeter told her.


    So then you don''t think we have a problem? she enquired. Saeter shook his head in response and brandished the crystal core he had gotten from cknail.


    We could just have gotten lucky. The cave could also be mostly sealed so only things like slimes can slip through. Larger slimes can be very dangerous though. Some even have active cores and magical abilities like mutants. Those can rival Drakes in strength, he exined as Herad gave him a frustrated look.


    This is obviously your area of expertise, Saeter. Why don''t you just exin what you want done so I can approve it? she asked him with an annoyed tone.


    It''s too dangerous to ignore. Tomorrow I''d like to send all the scouts to search the perimeter. Then I''d like for as many men as possible to go after them once it''s safer and do a more thorough search. A small crevice will be hard to find but easy enough to seal, he told her.


    Well, at least you don''t want to abandon the camp, Herad mused aloud as she took a second to think his request over.


    Very well it''s not like most the men are doing anything more thanzing around. This will just help keep them out of trouble. I''ll inform them tonight, she added and Saeter nodded in eptance.


    Then I''ll take my leave, the old scout told her.


    Herad just eyed him as she leisurely drew a dagger and lightly pressed her finger against the tip as if testing the sharpness. She continued stroking it for a few seconds before replying.


    What if it''s more than a crevice? New types of mana crystals are worth a fortune to the mage guilds, enough to set someone up for life, shemented dryly.


    Dangerous, you could stir up a monster capable of killing half the band. Maybe even something on the level of the City Killer and then Riverdown would join Coroulis in ruin, he answered with concern.


    Herad gave him a doubtful look.


    To the first I can always get more men, and as for the second it''s not only horribly unlikely but also simply not my problem, she answered him.


    It is if the beast kills us all first, which is pretty damn likely. You also need somewhere to trade your stolen goods, he replied.


    We can move, Herad said as she shrugged in response. Besides, you''re the one who is constantly reminding everyone that no one is ever safe out here. A mutant could attack us at any time and it wouldn''t be a surprise to either of us. This is the Iron Teeth and we''re bloody bandits. Every day we survive is a lucky one. Arge payoff is worth arge risk.


    As you wish, Saeter replied with a sigh. I guess we''ll see what we find tomorrow.


    Indeed we will, and if we find the cave I will be one making the call. You can go now, she told him dismissively in a coldmanding tone.


    Saeter simply nodded and quickly withdrew. cknail followed his master and thought over what he had just heard. It sounded like tomorrow would be exciting.

 Honor Among Thieves 5

    Honor Among Thieves 5


    Herad had done as she said and organized the search that evening. By early the next morning practically everyone in the band was up and about looking for the cave where the slime hade from. Only a few of the bandits were left to guard the camp and watch the roads.


    The entire operation was well nned and organized by both Saeter and Herad. The scouts went out first to make sure the area was safe. They knew the forest and its many dangers so they could locate them before the less skilled bandits stumbled into them unaware. They were also much less likely to get lost among the green maze of trees.


    The rest of the men then followed behind the scouts and made up for theirck of skill with numbers. They worked together to thoroughly search the bush for caves. They had been carefully instructed to move in small groups and not wander around alone.


    They had also been warned to look out for danger signs because it was more than likely that the scouts would miss something. It was a deep forest, and Herads rangers were skilled but still far from perfect.


    After a few hours of searching the scouts were ordered to start doubling back to make sure the less skilled woodsmen hadn''t got themselves stuck in mud or fallen down a hole.


    Saeter still thought there would be a few casualties. It was just to be expected with so many untrained men blindly wandering the woods. Thus, it would also be the scouts'' job to collect the lost and the bodies.


    Saeter himself served as a scout and cknail went with his master. This was no trip to empty the snares; they would be ranging far outside the somewhat safe areas they normally frequented.


    The old ranger had been assigned the area North of where cknail had fought the slime. It was not a direction cknail, or many other people, had travelled. As they walked North the terrain became rough. Hills and ravines sprung up out of nowhere to block their view.


    cknail found the constant changes in elevation exhausting. Now he knew why humans stuck so close to their roads all the time. Having to scramble up muddy hills and rocky inclines was a lot of work for a goblin with stubby little legs!


    Don''t worry about being too quiet, Saeter told cknail as they started their search. Since we''re not hunting game today I''m more worried about running into a bear or something than attracting predators.


    Yes, master, the goblin replied automatically.


    He knew what his master meant. Certain dangerous animals were likely to attack you if you surprised them but would normally avoid people if they heard theming. Thus, moving stealthy wasn''t always the best idea.


    The forest canopy that cknail was walking below blocked out most of the sun, but it wasnt nearly as dark here as in the spider infested woods. cknail was very d that they weren''t headed in that direction. He shuddered at just the memory of the creepy webs that nketed those shadowy woods and their nasty residents.


    The trees here were tall and thick. The ground was covered by short leafy nts where it wasn''t nketed in dead leaves. Here and there, small white and blue flowers peeked out from behind other nts. cknail actually found it all very calm and nice looking.


    The goblin had tried to eat a few of the flowers earlier but Saeter had pulled them out of his hand before he could taste them. Apparently, they were poisonous. Oh well, they had smelled a little off anyway.


    As cknail followed his master he sniffed and examined the ground for signs of the slime''s trail. He hadnt found anything yet though.


    He darted around to check under bushes and around rocks for crevices or hollows. He wanted to be the one to find the cave and its treasures! He was sure that would earn him a reward.


    Plus, he wanted to see the cave slimes came from. It sounded very interesting. He was a very brave and loyal goblin when Saeter was standing right behind him.


    As they followed the ravine, a low area appeared in front of them and they walked cautiously down into it. Soon, the ground begun to get muddy and they had to watch where they stepped.


    cknail''s short legs meant he had to hop from dry spot to dry spot to keep up with Saeter, who could simply step over the wet muddy areas. The goblin almost fell into the mud several times but managed to catch himself after some skillful wild iling.


    After a bit more walking, the pair stepped through a gap in the foliage and into a wide open area. There was arge break in the canopy above that let in light.


    The leafy shrubs on the ground grew thick under the open sky. The few trees cknail saw were thin and seemed quite young. The drone of insects and cries of birds were louder here as well.


    Seater stepped forward into the sun, but stopped to survey the clearing before going any further in. cknail stepped up behind his master and looked around as well.


    The goblin couldn''t see much, though. He was too short to see over a lot of the nts and bushes. He tried hopping as high as he could but that didn''t really help. He did however manage to spot several patches of tasty dew berries.


    cknail licked his lips. Dew berries were so tasty! He was very tempted to go grab some but he knew his master would smack him if he ran ahead like that, also something might kill him.


    Hmm, something feels off, the old grey haired scout muttered to himself as he looked around.


    He apparently didn''t see anything though, because he tentatively started walking forward again into the clearing. Saeter trampled the long grass and shoved bushes aside as he moved inwards.


    Saeters careful stride carried him towards a group of small trees that were surrounded by arge berry patch. He stared at it for a few seconds before turning and glowering at the rest of the clearing suspiciously.


    The scout took another step forward. Suddenly, a sharp cracking sound assaulted cknails ears. The goblin whipped around in time to see arge branch break loose from a tree and m into Saeter.


    Saeter raised his arms in an attempt to shield himself. The branch knocked them aside as it smacked into him with a loud thud. Blood spattered across the ground as Saeter was battered.


    cknail gasped in shock, but was relieved to see that his master had managed to stay on his feet. He was just tangled up in the fallen tree limb.


    The goblin rushed forward to help his master disentangle himself. He really hoped his wonderful master wasnt injured. He wouldnt be able to get back to camp without him!


    As he ran, cknail was abruptly struck by a strong sense of wrongness. Something wasn''t right here; something was bad. The goblin scrutinized the scene in front of himself carefully.


    The branch was wrong he realized. It hadn''te loose from the tree at all, it was still attached to it. In fact, it had stopped falling and had even risen a bit as Saeter began to struggle to free himself from its clutches.


    Much to the goblins confusion Seater seemed to be having a lot of trouble untangling himself. His eyes were also wide and showed a hint of fear. That was wrong, his master shouldn''t be afraid of a tree branch.


    cknail had a sudden unwee thought. Was this a trap? Had someone or something made the branch break on purpose?


    cknail had no clue what was going on but he knew what he was going to do. He drew his knife. It was time to find something to stab, until it was time to start running away.


    Saeter began iling and yelling in earnest as he tried to pull himself free from the tree branch. The old scout also pulled out his own knife and stabbed at the branch with his free hand.


    Then, the entire tree quivered as Saeter was abruptly yanked towards it by something unseen. cknail had used this time to reach his master. Sprinting, he scurried around to get at the branch and then sprang atop it with a quick leap.


    The goblin had thought he would find some rope or something to cut but he didn''t see anything like that. So, as soon as hended, he stabbed the branch wildly with his knife. The de hit the bark and skidded across it without prating. What, that wasnt right! This was very weird wood...


    Saeter was also hacking at the branch with his knife. However, his longer de didn''t seem to prate the wood any better than cknails did.


    In fact, the wood seemed very strange in general to cknail. It was warm and weirdly segmented.


    Looking at where his master was stuck to the branch, it almost seemed like it had grabbed him, as if it had ws. Trees didn''t have ws. cknail was pretty sure Saeter would have mentioned it if they did.


    Behind you, cknail. Down! Seater yelled at the goblin suddenly.


    Instantly, cknail obeyed and rolled off the branch. He was just in time. With a loud whooshing sound like leaves in the wind another branch swept through the space he had been upying a moment ago.


    The tree quivered again and then tilted wildly towards them, knocking leaves free and sending them spiraling down to earth in a green storm.


    cknail yelped in surprise as the tree-like creature rose up and twisted around to rearrange itself into a horrible new shape. Uh oh, it was time to run!


    As the rmed goblin watched, the tough looking tree trunk cracked and split to be two long segmented legs. Branches then shifted to be a pair of armored arms. The top of the tree also divided itself to reveal two more long twisted arms and a monstrous insect like head that was crowned by two short stalks that ended in small ck eyes.


    The twisted thing''s vicious mandible adorned maw opened as it screeched hungrily down at them. cknail winced as the disturbingly high sound drilled painfully into his ears.


    As the terrible armored monstrosity rose, it pulled the struggling Saeter under itself and pinned him there against the ground with one long arm.


    The strange creature was taller than a man even though it was hunched over and bncing on four long legs. One free w had Saeter firmly in its grasp and the other was swinging around again to grab at cknail. It most resembled a giant predatory stick insect or some sort of horribly stretched out leafy crab.


    What the goblin had taken to be bark was actually camouged carapace with lichen and moss growing on it. The weirdest part however was the smaller branches and leaves. They poked out randomly up from its back and limbs, and as far as cknail could tell they seemed to be real nts that had sprouted from the creature''s carapace.


    The terrified goblin rolled out of the way again as one of the creatures limbs descended down at him. The w missed him, hitting the ground instead and scarring the forest floor.


    Eep, run away! Weve angered the trees! cknail shrieked as sprang back to his feet and started running around in little circles through the grass.


    The goblin didnt know where to go and wailed fearfully. There were trees in every direction. He was doomed!


    Just then Saeter stabbed the arm holding him again. This time he seemed to have found a weak spot because the creature hissed and shook in pain. The leafy w that had been going after cknail pinned Seater''s other arm instead.


    Damnation and misery, that wasnt the n, Saeter screamed in anger and pain as he struggled to escape from beneath the ws that held him firm against the ground.


    cknail knew he needed toe up with a n of his own very quickly or his master was going to die, leaving him all alone and very far from the camp. There was no way he was heading back by himself now that he knew the trees would try to eat him! He wouldntst a second.


    He had to think! He had somehow beaten the slime. With the right n he could beat this thing to. So again, what tools did he have? Right!


    cknail drew his sling and slipped a stone into it. He twirled it to build momentum and sighted on the target his master had told him to aim for first, the eyes.


    He flung the stone towards one of the small ck targets but the projectile missed and whooshed past the creature. The creature flinched away and hissed in rm, though. It apparently didn''t like having rocks thrown at it, which meant cknail should do it again.


    cknailunched another stone, this time it hit the creature on the head just under the a eye stalk. The tree thing didn''t seem hurt but it flinched again and brought an arm up to protect its fragile looking eye stalks. However, in order to do that it had to let go of Seater with one hand.


    Let go, you bloody overgrown bush bug! Saeter shouted as he wasted no time and immediately started stabbing again with his newly freed hand.


    cknail continued to throw stones at the twisted creature until it turned away from him in an attempt to shield its head from the small projectiles. Ha, his n was working! He was a genius.


    Then, with a cry of victory Saeter rolled free from under his captor. He had managed to stab the knife almost all the way into the limb holding him by aiming for a joint.


    The pain had caused the creature to hiss and let go of its prey for a second. However, it quickly recovered and immediately tried to grab Saeter again.


    Saeter obviously had other ideas. He sprung up onto his feet with a grunt of pain and dashed towards the goblin as cknail covered him by slinging more stones at the now advancing monstrosity.


    The thing skittered towards its escaping prey on all six of its legs now. Its body and leaves shaking as it gave chase through the long grass of the clearing.


    Run, yelled Saeter as he grimaced painfully and dashed past the goblin.


    cknail did. As fast as he could he spun around and scrambled away from the thing trying to eat him. His master sure liked stating the obvious sometimes.


    They both ran through the woods at full sprint, with fear and pure survival instinct driving them forward. cknail had no illusions about what would happen if the creature managed to get a hold of him with its long branch like ws.


    Soon, the sound of pursuit and shaking leaves stopped. cknail risked a nce backwards and saw the creature turn and begin to wander away back to the clearing it hade from. Thankfully, it hadnt been a very fast runner.


    Ahead of him, Saeter came to a stop and leaned against a tree. He was clearly in pain and exhausted. Blood leaked through gashes on both his arms where the creature had grabbed him.


    In their haste to escape the man and the goblin had run into the deeper part of the bush away from the sunlight.


    Unbegotten mimics, Saeter growled between two heavy breaths as he rested.


    cknail remembered his master mentioning forest mimics once. He had told the goblin that they hid among trees and grabbed prey that wandered too close. He had also said to run from them if he saw one because they were slow.


    cknail was pretty sure his master had missed some important information in there somewhere. He had certainly not been expecting something like the thing that had attacked them!


    Are we safe now? There are trees everywhere! the goblin sobbed in terror as he spun around in circles. No matter how fast he turned he couldnt look in every direction at once.


    Were good. I should have seen it. I knew something was off. That was a perfect mimic hunting ground. They can only mimic smaller trees and they like lots of sun, Saeter groaned regretfully.


    He then turned to the goblin beside him who was swaying unsteadily on his feet from too much spinning.


    I''m getting you a bigger and sharper knife, Saeter told him.


    Yes, please, cknail replied with an exuberant nod of agreement.


    He liked that idea. This was the second time his knife had failed him. Just think of all the things he could stab with a bigger knife!


    After taking a few minutes to suck down air and recover as much as possible, Saeter pushed himself up off the tree with a wince and turned to the goblin.


    We need to head back. I''m wounded and the blood will attract predators, he exined.


    The old scout then hesitated for a second before grumbling and adding, Thanks cknail. Youre a good goblin.


    Caught by surprise, cknail broke out into a huge smile. His master had neverplimented him other then the asional ''good job'' before. He felt fierce pride rise in his chest. He had been very brave!


    Thank you, master. I so happy you no dead, he gushed as he strode forward and hugged his master around the waist.


    This caused Saeter to nch, look ufortable, and then try to squirm away.


    We need to head back. Let go and help me with my arms, cknail, he told the goblin awkwardly.


    He clearly wanted to push the goblin away but couldn''t manage it with his wounds. cknail waited a few second before letting go. He enjoyed the hug and had to put back the pouch his naughty fingers had instinctively borrowed by mistake when they had first hugged.


    Yes, master, he acknowledged when he was done and had let go.


    Saeter crouched down and had cknail go through his pouches until he found one that contained some strong herbal smelling paste and another that contained some clean rags.


    Saeter then had him take out a rag and apply the paste to his wounds using the cloth. Finally he had the goblin tie one rag tightly around thergest cut to stop the bleeding, and then use another one to tie his arm up to his chest to support it and prevent it from moving.


    That will do. Let''s go, Saeter grunted as cknail finished.


    The goblin stepped away and Saeter rose to his feet. The two of them then began the long walk back to the camp. Saeter was wounded but could still walk without too much difficulty. Much to cknail''s surprise, Saeter signaled that he should take the lead.


    Excitedly, the goblin took point and began to lead his master home. If they both survived he was sure to have earned a huge treat! Hopefully, it would be better than the berries the stupid mimic had chased them away from.

 Honor Among Thieves 6

    Honor Among Thieves 6


    cknail traced their path back to the bandit camp by following their old scent trail. It was easy because he had an amazing nose and was the greatest goblin tracker ever!


    The goblin kept a sharp look out for signs of danger and unknown smells as he trudged along through the forest. His master was depending on him to get them home safely.


    A sudden breeze blew through the trees causing some of them to sway and creak ominously. cknail froze in rm. He stopped and stared at a tree up ahead of him. Had its movement just been the wind or had it been something more sinister?


    The tree definitely didn''t seem to look right to cknail, not nearly tree-like enough. Was it another mimic? He got out his sling and started to spin it.


    He unleashed the stone and it whistled through the air and bounced off the tree with a dull thud, before falling down onto the dirt. cknail held his breath.


    Nothing else happened. The tree didn''t split open, move around, try to eat him, or anything else threatening. He was still suspicious.


    It''s not a mimic, cknail, Saeter remarked dryly from behind him. Just like thest three trees you checked.


    cknail sighed and walked under the tree. It didn''t move or transform into a horrible abomination. Sometimes his master was just no fun. They continued on.


    The sunlight moved westward through the branches overhead as they reached the halfway point back. cknail was climbing over arge fallen tree trunk that was starting to rot into mulch when the barest traces of a scent suddenly caught his attention. He titled his head back and sniffed the air.


    At first he smelled nothing out of the ordinary, but after a moment a scent he knew well filled his nose. Excitedly, he stopped atop the log and stood up to get a good view of the woods.


    He scanned the ground and brush around him for the source of the smell. His heart started pounding as he searched. He saw a lot of roots, fallen logs, and small bushes, but no obvious threats.


    What is it? Saeter asked with rm.


    He was in no shape for another fight and he knew it. Both his arms were heavily bandaged and he was walking with a limp.


    Goblins, many, cknail answered quietly.


    Several differentplex emotions rose within him and mixed together chaotically. Part of him suddenly wanted to challenge the goblins for the territory. Another part of him knew that was dumb. He was outnumbered with only a wounded Saeter for backup and that they needed to get to camp. He hesitated.


    Do you smell a hobgoblin, cknail? Saeter asked him nervously.


    What? cknail turned to his master and gave him a questioning look.


    Dunno? he answered doubtfully. Whats a hobgoblin?


    The old grey haired scout gave him a surprised look back.


    You don''t know what a hobgoblin is? he asked the goblin.


    cknail nodded in confirmation. He did not know this thing.


    Huh, do you smell arge strange goblin? Saeter asked carefully after a second of thought.


    cknail frowned. How was he supposed smell howrge a goblin was? Sometimes his master said some stupid things.


    No, master. None like that, cknail replied after taking another sniff. All the goblins he could smell seemed normal enough.


    His master looked relieved at the goblins answer. Now, cknail really wanted to know what a hobgoblin was. It sounded interesting.


    Keep moving but be ready for a fight. We should be able to scare them away though, they''re just... um goblins, Saeter said with an awkward finish.


    cknail ignored the unnned insult. He nodded to his master and jumped down from the log as he forged ahead through the woods.


    With an expectant smile, he drew his knife and held it ready in front of himself. Back in the humid darkness of the sewers when he had fought other goblins he had never had a weapon like this. It was so sharp, shiny, and dangerous! Saeter had drawn his own knife with his unbound arm as well.


    cknail could smell the goblins better now. There seemed to be at least four of them and they were definitely moving closer. They were probably investigating his scent and looking to kill the strange trespasser. The smell of his master''s blood could had also have convinced them an easy meal was nearby.


    They would get no easy meal from him. cknail closed his eyes and concentrated on his hearing. From within the darkness behind his own eyelids, he heard the scrunch of dead leaves being crushed and the sound of soft footsteps on dry dirt. He spun around and opened his eyes but didnt see anything.


    cknail narrowed his eyes warily as he scanned the surrounding bushes and trees for any signs of the goblins stalking them. He could feel them watching him. Every instinct he had was telling him there were hostile goblins around.


    Out the corner of his eye, a green blur suddenly shot out from below some tangled roots and raced towards him. cknail reacted quickly and jumped away, just as the attacking goblin smashed itsrge wooden club down onto the ground by his feet. The club was made from arge twisted branch and looked like it would have really hurt had it hit.


    The feral goblins long green ears went t and it snarled viciously at cknail. He was unfazed though, and hissed a challenge right back. It was time to show this ugly wimp who was the toughest goblin around.


    cknail wasted no time and eagerlyunched himself at his opponent. He intended to counterattack before the other goblin could recover from missing with his club.


    As he charged, cknail got a good look at his first forest goblin. The goblin was a slightly greener shade than him,pletely naked, and ugly as mashed worms. cknails face had the same long nose, thick brow, and squinty eyes but they looked much better on him.


    cknails smile grew wider and he bared his teeth as he took in his opponent. He was bigger than this naked little runt. It should be an easy fight, and that was his favourite kind.


    As cknail moved toplete his counterattack and stab his attacker, something hit him from behind. He snarled and turned to see that another goblin had tackled him from behind. Hey, that was cheating!


    Cowards! cknail hissed as this new goblin and he got tangled together and went flying off to the side.


    They rolled across the ground. His new opponent tried to smash his head in with a sharp pointy rock, but cknail grabbed his arm and stopped the blow. This fight was his!


    He and his opponent then fought and wed at each other as their momentum carried them through a prickly bush. The feral was too wary of cknails de to let himself get stabbed. Together, they then tumbled and smashed into the bottom of a thick standing tree.


    cknail was stunned and lost his grip on the other goblin for a second. Luckily, his opponent wasnt any better off. The two goblins fell apart, took a few seconds to recover, and got to their feet again. The feral goblin still had his pointy rock clenched tightly in one of his fists and cknail had his knife.


    Raargh! the naked green pipsqueak yelled as he raised it above his head and charged.


    No quarter! cknail shouted back as he ducked under the rock. It was something he had heard the bandits yell during fights.


    He then tackled his opponent to the ground and bit him. His teeth sank into the flesh under the other goblins arm, where he couldn''t be hit by his opponents rock. The taste of iron filled cknail''s mouth as he drew blood. It excited him. He was winning!


    The other goblin yelped loudly in pain and tried to pull away. Without mercy, cknail withdrew his teeth and stabbed his opponent in the shoulder with his de. He had been aiming for the other goblins neck.


    Regardless, the rock wielding goblin fell wailing to the ground. Blood dribbled from his side where hed been bitten and the shoulder where hed been stabbed. cknail spat blood onto the ground and wiped his mouth clean as he looked triumphantly down on his defeated opponent. Victory was his!


    cknail was now breathing hard and had several new scratches that burned painfully. The other goblin''s nails had been very sharp. As he sucked down air he was rmed to hear the crackle of leaves behind him.


    He spun around just in time to duck out of the way of a surprise attack. The branch wielding goblin had rejoined the fight. cknail felt the club whoosh by his head as he ducked under it. Right, he had almost forgotten about that guy. How silly of him.


    As he scrambled away from the club, he saw his master Saeter attempting to fight three other goblins. They circled around the man wielding long wooden spears.


    Damnation, you bloody little bastards, Saeter swore in frustration.


    He was obviously having trouble defending himself from all three of them. The old scout only had one useable arm which held a long dagger. He looked exhausted as he hopped around avoiding the goblins clumsy spear thrusts.


    cknail had to focus on his own fight, though. The club wielder rushed him again. Instead of dodging again, cknail leaped forward before the other goblin was ready and tackled him.


    They both fell over but cknailnded on top. He then easily managed to block the other goblins clumsy swings, as they were too close together for the club to be swung properly.


    cknail put all his weight on the other goblin''s chest. Spittle flew from the ferals mouth as he screeched and tried to bite cknail with his broken yellow teeth but cknail held him down. He had a strong one handed grip around the feral goblins throat.


    The fight ended as cknail brought up his free hand and stabbed his opponent savagely up and under the ribs as Saeter had taught him. Then he did it again several times just to be sure.


    Blood poured out of the wound onto the ground. The club wielder twitched and choked before going still and limp. cknail chuckled happily. Truly, he was a strong goblin. Hed defeated two other goblins by himself!


    As cknail rose to his feet he turned to face the three goblins attacking his master. However, they took one look at him standing over their two defeated pack mates and fled. They scampered off into the woods with a quick series of fearful yelps.


    The wounded goblin also managed to get to his feet and dive back under the roots the first goblin had hidden in. cknail watched him go and saw that there was a burrow under there. He felt no desire what so ever to try and chase the wounded goblin underground. That would be too much work.


    Well, this hasn''t been a good day for me, Saeter remarked tiredly.


    The old scout was swaying unsteadily but he was still standing. The goblins'' crude spears hadn''t pierced his leather armor but theyd still hurt when they had jabbed him, and they had jabbed him a lot.


    cknail smiled up at his master as excitement overcame him.


    We win. I win! I stab, bite, and stab, and win. cknail eximed joyfully with a little hop. He had shown those other goblins who owned this territory. Him, he did!


    Saeter just gave cknail a tired look.


    Well, we''re still alive anyway. Let''s hurry back. I need a drink... and medical attention, Saeter grunted.


    With a shrug, cknail did as he was told and headed towards the camp. He had his own cuts and scrapes but none of them were too serious. They were just proof of his strength and toughness!


    Saeter moved even slower now as he hobbled after cknail. Both exhaustion and pain from his new wounds slowed him, minor though they seemed. The old scout muttered and grumbled as he walked.


    cknail thought his master should be happier that they had won, but he hade to realize his master was kind of grumpy for a human.


    cknail strutted confidently through the woods now. His earlier victory had intoxicated him. He was the strongest goblin around! The toughest in the entire forest! He still kept his eyes open but his usual fear of the forest had subsided for now.


    An unexpected glimmer of color among the green to his left caught his eye. Shiny! He wandered over to get a better look. The thing was small, about the size of his fist, and many different sparkling colors. It seemed to reflect the light in a rainbow hue. As he moved cknail heard a grunt behind him.


    Bad, cknail. Come back. Stay on the trail, Saeter shouted before a fit of coughing overtook him.


    cknail looked back with concern. He really should turn around. With regret he turned back away from the shiny thing. Knowing this forest, it was probably some sort of horrific murder trap anyway.


    As he walked back to Saeter, he heard a whirring sound from behind him. With a panicked twitch cknail threw himself off to the side. He rolled and scrambled through the dirt before getting to his feet and turning to see what was attacking him.


    The shiny object he had seen flew past him. As he watched the small colorful thing buzzed over to a tree andnded on it. It was a bug. Oh, he recognized it now. cknail felt really embarrassed. He threw a quick nce back towards his master. Saeter was glowering impatiently at him.


    The bug on the tree wasrge and its wings shone with different colors as the light hit it. It looked like a cross between a beetle and an ant, and it had huge sharp looking mandibles.


    cknail had seen plenty of them underground in the sewers. One of his main jobs had been to exterminate them. They tended to buildrge nests that blocked pipes, and drill holes through other pipes. His old masters hadn''t liked them much. They were also poisonous so you couldn''t even eat them. Out of habit the goblin drew his sling to kill it.


    Stop, cknail! Saeter shouted suddenly as cknail was in mid swing. The goblin stopped and looked over to his master with a confused expression on his face.


    It''s bad luck to kill a harvester. They''re sacred to the gods, Saeter exined to the befuddled goblin.


    cknail considered that. If killing bugs made spirits angry it would exin all his bad luck, and how he had ended up in the forest. That made sense, no more shiny bug smashing for him. He lowered his sling.


    Meanwhile, the harvester crawled up the tree bark until it reached a small green shoot. Using its pincers it snipped off the shoot and then took flight. cknail watched it zoom away off into the bushes with the bit of nt in its mouth.


    It will be taking that to its underground hive where it will rot and be used to grow mushrooms. That''s why its sacred to both Tera-Nan of growing things, and Cor-Dius of darkness, Saeter exined reverently.


    cknail gave Saeter a confused look. So this Tera-Nan and Cor-Dius were spirits? It figured that humans named spirits, they certainly named everything else. Saeter met his gaze and gave a pained chuckle.


    I''m not going to try and exin the gods to a goblin. No offence cknail. Now let''s get going, Saeter told him sternly.


    With a shrug, cknail moved back onto the path and began to guide Saeter back to camp again. He didn''t really feel the need to learn the names of spirits anyway. It seemed kind of pointless to him. Spirits watched you and did what they wanted whether you knew their names or not.


    As they moved Saeter began to limp more and more. He was also noticeably slowing down. cknail began to grow concerned that his master wouldnt make it back to camp. Dragging him would be a lot of work.


    Luckily, cknail soon heard the sound of human voices through the underbrush. His long pointy ears detected the noise before Saeter did. He scampered off into the bushes to check it out.


    Hey, where are going? Come back cknail. Saeter shouted after him.


    Hear voices. Be right back, cknail responded.


    He peered out from behind a tree and saw a group of rough looking humans moving around the forest. It took him a second but he recognized several of them, mostly by their strong smell. Smiling in relief, cknail turned and ran back to his master.


    This way! Band this way, cknail told Saeter happily as he ran up to him.


    Saeter gave him an annoyed look but began to walk in the direction cknail indicated. They soon ran into the other bandits, who were obviously searchers out looking for the cave.


    There were a dozen of them spread over a small area checking under bushes and behind rocks for crevices or caves. As Saeter and cknail approached, one of them looked up and gave them an amused look.


    What in all creation happened to you, and should I be worried? There isn''t a pissed off drake chasing you I hope? the man asked Saeter as he took in their exhausted and ragged state.


    Saeter''s clothes were cut and covered in blood. His one arm was also in a sling. cknail had his own share of bloodstains and scratches as well. Saeter scowled back at the man.


    We''ll be fine, thanks for asking; and there is no drake. We just walked into a mimic and then a bunch of feral goblins decided we looked like a free meal, Saeter replied dryly.


    cknail nodded in agreement as his master spoke. He would have noticed a drake. He had heard they were pretty big.


    Well, I hope that mimic isn''t around here. Also, don''t look now but I think one of those goblins is still following you, the man told Saeter with a smile as he pointed to cknail.


    Saeter gave the man an entirely unamused look back.


    I''m not in the mood for jokes, the old scout replied. The mimic is two hours walk away, so dont worry. This area should be fairly clear for several miles, but I''m heading back to camp to get myself fixed up so you''re on your own out here. I would appreciate you sending someone back with us just in case, though.


    The other man shrugged and agreed to send someone back with them. He called anky bandit over and the three of them then headed back to camp together.


    Try not to trip into anymore monsters, Saeter, the bandit joked as they walked away.


    Saeter turned and scowled at the man.


    Good luck out here without a guide. I have some advice for you. When you inevitably find a troll in the next bush you search you should scream really loudly. Then everyone will know what direction to run away from, Saeter shot back before stomping off.


    They soon made it back to camp without any more surprises or encounters. Once there Saeter had his wounds cleaned and stitched up. After that they both had diner and took the rest of the day off.


    It eventually grew dark and Saeter fell asleep beside the remains of their fire. He had been too tired to even make it into his tent. cknail grinned happily as he curled up beside his master. This had been one of his favorite days ever. He was cknail, the strongest goblin of them all!

 Honor Among Thieves 7

    Honor Among Thieves 7


    Over the next few days Herad was in an even worse mood than usual, which was truly frightening. Bandits who hadnt left the camp for weeks began volunteering for watch or scouting duty. The base became noticeably emptier.


    The bandit chieftain had really wanted to raid the crystal cave for treasures to sell. No one had managed to find it, though.


    She had red at Saeter when thest group of searchers had reported back. She was either furious at him for wasting her time or suspected that hed somehow concealed the cave.


    It didn''t help that the old scout had made in his relief that no one had found the cave. cknail spent a great deal of time checking the snares out in the woods during this time. Sometimes Saeter joined him.


    Her bad mood continued for days until the merchants from Riverdown finally arrived. Scouts that were posted to the road sent word of their approach. Herad immediately had the camp upended and reorganized for their arrival. She wanted to impress her guests.


    Extra guards were stationed at the road barricades that had been built earlier. The camp and even the bandits themselves were cleaned up as much as possible. Not that the bandits cleaned up particrly well; but at least most of the smell of piss and vomit was removed.


    During the time the bandits had upied their current camp they hadnt been totally unproductive. Herads base had been improved and built up a fair bit. It wasnt like they had much else to do with their time, so theyd managed to put some effort into making themselves morefortable.


    The primitive lean-tos the forward party had constructed had been patched up and improved. Many had been divided into personal rooms with hanging hide or canvass doors. More of them had been built as well, so that every bandit had somewhere sheltered to sleep out of the wind and rain.


    Trees had been cleared for timber and piled up for firewood as well. Several crude pavilions made from wagon tarps and long posts had been put up for storage or gatherings. All and all the camp looked much more permanent, and less like an overnight campsite.


    cknail was there when the merchants arrived. He was doing one of the many chores Saeter had him constantly performing. Behind him, Saeter was sitting in front of his tent and idly whittling away at a piece of wood. Most of ouws in the band were around except for those on watch. Herad wanted a show of force, so every bandit not on watch or scouting was in camp.


    The convoy arrived around midday when the sun was almost straight up in the sky. Half a dozen wagons rolled down the dusty road and stopped out in front of the old farmhouse. Most the wagons were only lightly loaded, the merchants were here to buy not sell. What theycked in goods though they made up for in bodies.


    Dozens of people apanied the wagons, and a lot of them were very shiny. Sunlight shed off their armor as they moved. After a closer look, cknail realized that almost every human in the merchant''s caravan was heavily armed.


    All and all, the bandits outnumbered the ck market traders more than two to one but the guards had far better equipment, including chain mail and steel breasttes. They also looked more professional and disciplined. The guards stood tall and regarded the brigands before them expressionlessly, without showing a hint of concern at being so outnumbered.


    A small skinny man with a goatee stepped down from the lead cart. With a gesture he summoned a dozen guards to him and made his way forward. Herad frowned when she saw him, but stepped forward to meet him. A dozen of herrger and better armed thugs followed her.


    When the merchant and Herad met they exchanged a polite handshake. The guards and bandits red at each other from behind their masters backs, but both Herad and the small man ignored thempletely.


    cknail had a sudden urge to run up and join the thugs in giving the guards evil looks. Maybe he could climb up onto one of the bandits shoulders for a better view while he was at it. It seemed like a fun idea, but he resisted the urge.


    Persus, I''m d to see you, Herad told the man whose hand she was shaking.


    I always enjoyying eyes on you as well, Herad, the man replied with a slight leer.


    Herad smiled back at him but her one hand moved subtly closer to her knives.


    It''s good of you toe all this way. You won''t be disappointed with what we have for you, she told him.


    Ah well, I''m afraid I''m usually disappointed when ites to that. I always want more than others are willing to let me have, he said with a theatrical sigh.


    That may be why I find myself dealing in ck market goods, he then added with a chuckle.


    Well, be that as it may, I think you will be pleasantly surprised at what we have for you here. You should be able to sell it for quite the profit, Herad told him.


    Ah, that''s wonderful to hear but you know sometimes life is about more than just profit. Don''t you think? he responded with another smirk. Herad''s smile froze.


    An odd thing for a merchant to say. I''m not sure yourpany would approve, Herad replied. She couldn''t quite keep the hostility out of her voice.


    Tsk. Well, they''re not here are they? Anyway they don''t need to worry, since I always earn them a tidy sum, Persus responded.


    I''m sure that''s true. Let''s get out of the sun shall we? I have a list of goods inside. We can go over it and then inspect the physical items after, Herad suggested.


    She clearly wanted to get down to business but Persus didn''t seem to be in a hurry. The usually in control and violent Herad seemed be acting very cautiously around this small man.


    cknail couldn''t really understand why. As far as he could figure it the merchant was only the leader of a tribe they were trading with. He also seemed to have less men than Herad, even if they were much shinier. So, why was Herad acting so... un-Herad-like?


    cknail heard Saeter mutter something and turned to see his master glowering at the small merchant. Was Persus his master''s enemy? cknail turned back to Persus when the man started talking again.


    I hope you have some refreshments. It''s been a terribly long and odious ride here. I would greatly enjoy a drink and somepany before getting down to business, Persus replied while feigning a haggard tone.


    Of course. We liberated a few good bottles on ourst expedition. Just this way, Persus, Herad answered with a wave in the direction of the farmhouse.


    The merchant sniffed disdainfully when he saw it.


    A barbaric piece of shelter if I ever saw one but I suppose it will have to do. Some allowances must be made since we are so far from real civilization out here, after all, he said with a sigh.


    Herad led him to the door and they entered together. The thugs took up position outside. The guards however attempted to enter after their master, but Persus waved them off.


    I''ll be fine. Stay out here and wait for me, hemanded with a snap of his fingers before disappearing inside.


    Herad hadmanded that all the bandits should watch the merchant''s guards while looking busy and professional. Thus, more bandits were on watch than usual. Many of them were standing or sitting around the camp in small, but not so casual groups, that just so happened to be facing the caravan most of the time.


    The guards themselves seemed to sense the hostility because they didn''t even bother to pretend to rx. They all stood strategically around the caravan at attention with hands on weapons. They were ready for any trouble, and the bandits looked like they wanted to cause it.


    Since everyone else seemed to be just hanging around, cknail took this time to rx as well. He yawned and walked over to a pile of firewood. There between the logs he cleared a patch of earth and gathered dry grass for a bed. Then he curled up and swiftly fell asleep with the pleasant earthy smell of drying wood filling his nostrils.


    He was awoken from his pleasant dreams by the noise of the wagons being loaded. Looking up, cknail noticed that the sun had moved through the clear blue sky a fair bit, meaning two or three hours had passed. He got up, stretched, and looked around.


    Hopefully, he hadn''t missed anything exciting while he napped. cknail saw that Herad and Persus were out inspecting the goods. They also seemed to be arguing back and forth about prices. Ugh, boring.


    By this point Heard looked very tired of dealing with Persus. She was openly ring at him as they argued and her voice seemed strained.


    cknail was honestly surprised she hadn''t stabbed the small man. cknail knew that was how she usually dealt with people who annoyed her. She was very efficient for a human.


    Members of Herad''s bandit troupe were loading the stolen goods onto Persus'' wagon, while his guards looked on. The bandits didn''t seem happy about doing the work alone.


    This went on for awhile as Persus''s wagons got piled high with more and more cargo. Eventually, thest piece of stolen goods he wanted to purchase was loaded up and secured. Several crates and items he didn''t want, or didn''t want to pay enough for, were left lying around.


    It was a pleasure doing business with you, mistress Herad, Persus told her as they were finishing up.


    You can be a vexing bargainer, but I look forward to dealing with you again, Herad replied politely. Her voice contained a hint of hostility, though.


    Persus extended a hand and they shook again. As Herad tried to withdraw her arm, the merchant pulled it up and kissed the back of her hand. She gave him a cold look, but he simply smirked back at her before letting go.


    Then as we agreed, 167 Gold Elorians, of which half are payable now and half will be deposited at the Riverdown bank for you upon my safe arrival, he told her.


    Persus then signaled to a pair of guards and they brought forth arge chest. He pulled arge key from a cord around his neck and unlocked it.


    From inside, he took out several bags and counted out a few coins. He handed the coins to Herad and left the heavier bags there on the ground before locking the chest up again and slipping the key into his pocket. The chest wasrgely empty when he closed it.


    Herad went through the bags and gave them a brief inspection. She appeared satisfied with the results.


    I wish you a safe journey home then, Persus, Herad told the merchant as she finished.


    Persus rolled his eyes in response.


    Of course you do, Herad. That''s the entire point, the small neatly dressed manmented dryly before walking back to his wagon.


    On his way he strode past cknail''s hiding spot in the wood pile.


    The goblin hid himself as the man approached. He was pretty sure that his master and everyone else didn''t like the tiny outsider. In cknail''s mind that made him practically an enemy, and thus fair game.


    As Persus passed by his hiding spot, cknail darted out and his hand reached out to swiftly liberate the contents of the merchant''s pockets. The man didn''t notice and continued walking on, unaware that he was suddenly ever so slightly lighter. The goblin sniggered as he retreated with his prizes.


    After Persus had spent a few minutes yelling orders at his underlings, his caravan got itself organized and started back down the road they hade from. cknail watched the merchant carefully until they were gone, but the stupid man never checked his pockets.


    The goblin then broke out into a grin. The prizes were all his! Excitedly, cknail opened his hand and examined his new property.


    Hed gotten the shiny yellow key! He also had a bunch of mixed coins of various sizes and colors. That was a lot of shinnies! Grinning in joy, the goblin stuffed his new possessions into one of his pouches for safekeeping.


    Now that the merchant was gone, Saeter walked over to Herad. She gave him an irritated look as he approached but her earlier bad mood seemed somewhat mollified by therge pile of gold in front of her. Apparently, she liked shinnies as well.


    I hate that money grabbing little rat. Why couldn''t thepany have sent someone else? Saeter remarked coldly.


    He''s a pig, but yed right he pays more than some of their other representatives, and that''s what matters Herad replied scornfully.


    Well, one day I hope to meet him out in the woods where there are no witnesses or guards. So I can shoot him, he told her.


    Herad turned away from him and began giving orders, but cknail could see she was smiling slightly. Or at least he thought it was a smile, he couldn''t be sure since it was the first time he had seen anything like it on her face.


    Under Herad''s directions, the gold was soon packed away and the camp reorganized. Most of the men looked excited and expectant.


    Saeter and Herad were then joined by another ouw who cknail knew had somehow earned the name Red Dog. Of course Red Dog wasn''t red and didn''t have a dog. Humans were weird.


    Red Dog was a tall man, but shorter than Saeter, with unruly brown hair. He also somehow managed to be one of the few bandits in camp that had pudgy cheeks. Living in the wild tended to strip the fat from most men, but apparently not from him.


    What''s the n now, boss? The men are going to want their share of the gold and a chance to spend it, Red Dog asked her cheerfully.


    And they''ll get it. When I say they can, Herad told him sternly.


    Red Dog fidgeted ufortably.


    What''s the problem? We''re only a day way from Riverdown, and they''re a typical frontier city. If we keep our heads low then we shouldn''t have problems with thew. We''ve been there before, he remarked.


    We can''t all go at once. We''ll be staying out here until winter starts to set in, then we''ll head north to Daggerpoint. Until then I''ll pay and detach a few men at a time to the city for leave. If I pay them all now they''ll just start fighting over it, she told him after a moment of reflection.


    Red Dog nodded in eptance. He clearly had been expecting something like that. Saeter however had a question or two.


    We''re staying here? That seems a bit risky. What about our next score? he asked.


    I had a talk with Persus while I was entertaining him, Herad exined. On top of getting an interesting letter from him, I also managed to get quite a bit of useful info out of the worm... like the routes and times for several caravans over the next month.


    Nice, Red Dog remarked.


    Yes, it seems the Palinthiens are pressing the Elorians hard right now, the bandit chieftain remarked with a fierce smile. Most of their troops have been pulled out of the north to reinforce the border, and they already barely have enough for patrols. The local lords, such that they are, have enough problems of their own as well.


    Leaving us free to run wild, Red Dog added with a predatory smile of his own.


    Trade will probably dry up once the merchants realize how unsafe it is, Saeter observed coolly.


    Well split the band and send out some smaller groups to hit smaller targets if ites to that, Herad answered with a shrug.


    Saeter frowned but nodded.


    I dont think we need to be worry about that. Merchants are all a bunch of greedy bastards who aren''t nearly as smart as they like to think they are, Red Dog interjected cheerfully.


    cknail got bored and wandered off after that. Several days passed with nothing exciting happening, just a lot of chores. Saeter kept the goblin busy and didnt seem interested in going into town.


    Things finally picked up when a group of scouts rode into camp with word of a potential target. Herad quickly summoned several of her lieutenants to a meeting. Saeter was among them and as usual cknail was his shadow. Also, Red Dog and Vorscha attended.


    Clevan''s group was set to watch the road south from Brackenmount, Herad told everyone. Persus said that they would soon be sending a big shipment of weapons south. Now, Brackenmount doesn''t produce nearly as many weapons as it did before Coroulis was destroyed but the haul should still be considerable.


    We could always use more weapons. Tools of our trade they are, Red Dogmented.


    We would be better served by nkets and boots, Saeter pointed out dryly.


    True enough, but robbing a nket caravan wouldn''t be nearly as profitable, Red Dog replied with a chuckle.


    Vorschaughed with him, until Herad gave them both a dark look and they quickly quieted down.


    A shipment like this will be meant for the front line, and that means it will be heavily guarded. Maybe even an army escort, includingbat mages and Sloshers, Saeter warned the others.


    Red Dog frowned in concern but Herad just nodded.


    Possibly, there are troops in town but no one seems to know how many will go with the caravan, if any. she told them, apparently unconcerned.


    What''s the most the army boys could bring to the table, Vorscha asked her boss thoughtfully.


    At most they could spare a full toon, so less than 50 men. As for mages and vessels, who knows? Herad answered with emphasis on the proper name of elixir users.


    She didn''t seem to approve of the ng word for them, most likely because she thought it disrespectful to herself because she was one.


    Probably not many, Red Dogmented.


    We could take a toon but it would bleed us, and I''m not sure about any mages. Those guys can do a lot of bloody damage and it would already be a close thing, Vorscha mused aloud.


    So we don''t attack if they''re too strong. We can always check them out and retreat if they''re too much trouble, or attack from ambush, Red Dog suggested.


    I was already talking about an ambush, Vorscha replied with a roll of her eyes.


    We could put men in a town on the way and get them to ply the guards with drink when they stop for the night, Saeter suggested. We then mark the mages and Slosh... Vessels and take them out first when the fight starts or before it.


    Herad scowled as the old scout talked but apparently didnt find any fault with what he said.


    Yes, cunning and ruthless is the way to do it, she reluctantly agreed. Fair fights are for knights and nobles in stories. We could also use poison and if the town they stop at is small enough we could pige it as a bonus.


    That could get messy, Saetermented critically as he frowned.


    As long as we get the shipment I couldn''t care less. If you don''t have the stomach for it then you can stay here, Herad told him with a cold unemotional look.


    The others looked away from Saeter and stayed silent. No one backed him up against their boss.


    We''ll get ready to head out immediately, Herad ordered everyone. We need to be well ahead of them for this to work out correctly. Saeter you''ll take charge of the camp when I''m gone. Vorscha and Red you''re both with me.


    Saeter looked dissatisfied but could do nothing but agree. Behind him, cknail tried to keep out of Herads sight. She looked even meaner than usual.


    At daybreak the next day, most the bandits marched out of camp. It was an overcast morning and the birds were singing loudly in the trees.


    The bandit base felt empty to cknail. Very few people were left in the camp with Saeter and him. Hopefully, nothing would go wrong while most the tribe were away.

 Honor Among Thieves 8

    Honor Among Thieves 8


    The next few days were very boring. Herad was gone and she had taken most the other bandits with her. cknail spent his time doing chores and, when boredom caused his curiosity to ovee his self preservation, a little exploring.


    One afternoon, as cknail was walking over to his masters tent. He had been out in the forest gathering some nts for Saeter. He didnt know why his master wanted them, they certainly didnt taste very good, he had checked.


    Suddenly, the loud crack of wood splintering startled the goblin and caused him to flinch. The first noise was soon followed by the sound of panicked human yelling. That was almost never good.


    cknail grew concerned. Then he realized the noise wasing from the nearby forest, and it was getting closer. He immediately started to run away. Just to be safe.


    He made straight for his master but the noise steadily grew closer. The nervous goblin risked a nce backwards and saw a scout burst from the edge of the forest and run frantically into the clearing. The man''s face was pale with terror and he was gasping for breath.


    Not good, something bad was about to happen and he wanted as far away from it as possible. cknail tried to run faster. His little legs pumped frantically.


    Help, the scout yelled desperately between gasping breaths.


    The goblin was pretty sure the man wasn''t talking to him, so he just kept running away.


    The camp came alive with movement and shouting as others noticed themotion. Suddenly, cknail heard several bandits swear or shout in surprise. He couldn''t help but shoot another panicked look over his shoulder to find out what the men had seen. He had a feeling he wasn''t going to like it.


    He was not disappointed. The forest exploded and massive creature barreled out of the bushes. It was headed straight for the running scout.


    The beast snorted and squealed in rage as it tried to run the fleeing man down. The scout was, of course, leading it straight towards cknail.


    The creature was as tall as a man and heavy with both muscle and fat. It easily weighed more than a horse. Its body was covered in dark brown spiky hair that was especially long and bristly on its back. It also had a t snout protruding from its face, because it was a giant pig.


    Even with its unbelievable mass the boar moved frighteningly quickly. cknail had no doubt that anyone hit by it would be smashed into paste, and then crushed under its hooves. That was, of course, if they weren''t first impaled on the long yellow tusks that jutted forward out of its mouth.


    cknail was running on all fours now as both panic and adrenaline set in. Both the scout and the huge pig were gaining on him. Saeter had risen to his feet and was now quickly going through his things.


    cknail raced past an empty tent. He really hoped his master would do something soon as in really soon! He didnt want to be trampled to death by a giant pig!


    From just behind him the running goblin heard a horrible scream of pain, which was quickly followed by a wet crunching sound and then a triumphant squeal. Ouch! Hopefully the beast would leave now that it had caught its target.


    Nope, the sound of heavy hooves pounding the earth continued towards cknail. Why did these things always happen to him!


    Bad piggy, dont chase me, the terrified little goblin wailed as he ran.


    Suddenly, there was the crack of a sling and a surprised squeal from the boar. One of the nearby bandits had hit the pig with a rock. With a furious grunt the boar shifted its beady eyed gaze to the woman who had hit him.


    The woman''s eyes widened as they met the small ck eyes of the boar. You could practically see anger and hatred rise like steam from off the boars back. It looked pissed.


    With a dreadful squeal that tore through the air, the beast switched targets and made for his assant.


    After a brief second of looking very regretful of her recent life choices, the woman turned and fled. Her sudden departure surprised several bandits who had been standing right next to her.


    Hey, wait! one of them squeaked.


    Then the entire group of bandits turned and dashed away in every direction like a swarm of insects someone had just waved their hand through. None of them tried to stand their ground.


    cknail slowed to a jog. Whew, he needed catch his breath. The boar was no longer chasing him, thank the spirits. He should be safe for now.


    As the boar closed in on her, the woman dove behind a stack of solid wooden crates. This did not stop the boar. It hit the boxes at full speed with a thunderous cracking noise.


    The beasts long tusks scooped under the crates, and a jerk of its wide headunched them into the air. Its bulky body smashed right through the remaining boxes and crushed them under its hooves. An explosion of splinters was soon all that was left of them.


    The noise was deafening. Even from far away, cknail winced in pain as the sound assaulted his ears.


    The goblin couldn''t see where the woman had ended up among all the debris. He didn''t even know if she was still alive or not. If she was dead he would remember her fondly. She had probably saved his life after all.


    The boar apparently couldn''t find her either. It snorted and stomped around the ruins of the crates for a few seconds before focusing his attention on the nearest visible bandit. A startlingly angry squeal escaped the beasts lips and then it charged after him.


    Oh hells the man yelled as he desperately looked around for somewhere to hide.


    Much to cknail''s rm, the man started running in his direction.


    Eek, not again! the goblin cursed as he picked up speed.


    All the nearby bandits were either running away or hiding behind tents and equipment. Several had made for the old farm house and one was climbing a tree. It wasnt even a veryrge tree.


    After seeing the boar go through the pile of crates cknail was pretty sure those were all terrible ideas. He just wished he had a better one.


    The man and the beast were quickly closing in on the small goblin, so cknail took off towards Saeter. Bad things from the forest were kind of his thing.


    The heavy beat of hooves closed in on cknail from behind. He wasnt going to make it to safety!


    No no, what to do? the goblin squeaked as he started panicking.


    cknail then turned and dashed towards a nearby line of wooden lean-tos. They wouldn''t stop the charging boar behind him, but maybe he could hide there.


    As the goblin dove into the nearest lean-to, the man running behind him leapt to the side. The bandit barely managed to avoid being impaled on the beasts tusks but hended safely.


    The boar didn''t try and chase him. Instead, it hit the lean-tos full force. The crude wooden structures exploded as the beast smashed through them.


    From inside, cknail watched the small buildinge apart around him. Splinters and broken pieces of wood flew everywhere as the boar narrowly missed the goblin. cknail''s eyes widened and he turned pale as a descending hoof narrowly missed his head.


    He stiffened in terror as the powerful musky smell of the boar and a deafening chorus of squeals washed over him. The terrified goblin shut his eyes and curled up into a ball, while wishing he was somewhere safe. There were no boars in his old lovely sewer home.


    Then the noise stopped and the beast was gone. It had passed through the shattered lean-tos and continued on. cknail''s heart beat was out of control and he started twitching uncontrobly.


    Was he still alive? He couldn''t believe it. The goblin patted himself down, and was surprised to find his body still intact. Still somewhat stunned, he sat up and looked out from the ruins of the lean-to.


    The wide-eyed goblin watched as the beast continued to rampage through the bandits camp. cknail noticed several arrows sticking out from the creatures hide. Those were new.


    Apparently, some of the humans were actually doing something other than running away in terror now, what idiots. The goblin was going to run the second the beast turned back in his direction.


    As he watched, several more arrows hit the boar. It grunted in pain and squealed angrily. The arrows wereing from almost every direction now as the bandits finally got organized.


    The constant painful pricks were confusing the beast; it couldnt focus on a single target. The squealing giant stomped and spun around in circles, as more and more arrows descended upon it.


    Before long, it began to slow and stumble as it bled out from an ever increasing number of wounds. Then an arrow took it in the throat, and the boar copsed. It gave onest gasping wheeze before shuddering and going still. Its gigantic fallen body was pierced by too many arrows to count.


    Saeter approached the fallen giant with sword in hand. He quickly stepped in and stabbed it under the ribs. The sword sank over halfway into the beasts side, but it didn''t so much as twitch.


    Well, it''s dead now, Saeter announced as he withdrew the de. He then scowled sourly as looked around the now ravaged camp.


    Other ouws cautiously began to approach the beast. Some of them had bows but others had just popped out of hiding and were unarmed.


    At least we''ll eat well tonight, One of the bandits remarked, which earned him a few chuckles.


    True, but we''re going to have a lot of cleaning up to do to Saeter replied.


    cknail shakily got up and wandered over as well. The goblin plopped down at his masters feet and leaned his head against Saeters leg for support. He just felt like sitting there for awhile, it felt nice and safe.


    We have at least one grave to dig, another bandit added with a look towards the remains of the boar''s first victim.


    cknail looked over as well. He had realized a very important truth today, never hit a boar with a sling.


    With one of his usual annoyed grunts, Saeter took charge and got everyone started on cleaning up. There was a lot to do. The titanic boar had done a huge amount of damage, and it soon grew dark.


    Saeter had put himself in charge of cooking the boar. He had a giant spit roast made and the boar was cut up and put on it. When it was done he allowed everyone to stop for supper.


    cknail joined his master at their camp fire. The smell of roasting meat was making the goblin drool all over himself. It smelled so nice! He wanted to bite into it so badly.


    Saeter saw the goblin and threw him a small piece of greasy meat. cknail caught it right out of the air with his mouth and instantly started chewing. The goblin shivered happily as smacked loudly. His mouth tingled with glorious deliciousness.


    Unfortunately, he soon swallowed thest bit of meat and his stomach wasnt full. The goblin opened his eyes wide and gave his master a pleading expression but the man ignored him. cknail cried a little as he sat next to the fire.


    Why did his master never give him enough food? It wasnt like Saeter was a cruel master, far from it.


    Oh well, it was fine. cknail had a cunning plot in ce to secure more food. He was going to go and beg from Geralhd. It worked every time.


    After a brief walk around the now dark and campfire lit camp cknail found the man at his usual eating ce. He was seated around a fire with several other men. The flickering me illuminated their faces as they talked.


    cknail wandered over to Geralhd. Normally he would be wary of approaching most the bandits but the ones who had stayed behind with Saeter left him alone. Geralhd was also easy to get food out of, and not very threatening.


    Geralhd noticed the goblin approach and smiled at him. He reached over and picked up a piece of meat that had been set aside.


    Sit, cknail. Who is a good boy? Geralhd asked sweetly. One of the other men groaned and another chuckled as Geralhd spoke.


    Me, I''m a good boy, cknail answered happily as he took a seat at Geralhd''s feet.


    Geralhd smiled again and tossed him the treat. As he chewed and slurped down the meat cknail smirked. He clearly had Geralhd well trained.


    It''s not a bloody dog, Geralhd. It''s a goblin. They''re very different, one of the bandits remarked in an irritated voice.


    He''s a good little boy none the less, Geralhd answered as he shrugged and petted cknail''s head. It actually felt pretty good.


    cknail smiled toothily at the other man, which caused him to look exasperated and sigh loudly.


    I still don''t understand why Saeter decided to get a goblin, or why Herad let him. Its not like every scout in the band wouldn''t give theirst prayer to be his partner; and I would have thought the boss would have said no, just to spite him, one man told the others as Geralhd gave him a confused look.


    Why do Saeter and Herad have such a problem with each other''spany anyway? Also, why in all the gods names would every scout want to partner with a grumpy old man like Saeter? I mean sure he''s the most experienced of our ever so hard working scouts, but he''s also more than a bit of an ass as well, Geralhd asked.


    Most the men chuckled but one gave a nervous nce at the darkness over his shoulder before replying. It was almost like he wanted to be very sure no one unexpected was listening.


    Well, you see the answer to both those questions is sort of the same. You obviously don''t know who Saeter is, or at least who he used to be, the man said quietly.


    cknail''s ears twitched as he suddenly grew interested and started paying attention. He was almost done eating anyway. Geralhd leaned in closer and he raised an eyebrow inquisitively, in an invitation for the man to keep speaking.


    Oh, who did our resident old timer used to be then? Geralhd asked with interest.


    Saeter used to run his own gang of thieves, years ago. They were one of the first sessful bands, and they built a name quite a name up for themselves. That was way back of course, when things were very different. Eventually, they all retired or died until only Saeter was left, was the other mans reply.


    You must be joking. Who would follow Saeter, and why would Herad have a problem with that? Geralhd asked with disbelief.


    Think about it for a second. Every bandit chiefs worst fear is being killed and reced by one of their subordinates. Who could possibly feel secure knowing someone in their band used to be a sessful leader? the other bandit pointed out.


    Thats a good point. Herad has always struck me as more than a little paranoid. However, if Saeter used to be so famous why is he serving under Herad, instead of leading his own band? Geralhd asked.


    It was different man that answered this time. He had remained quiet until now but cknail recognized him as one of the older scouts.


    Saeter is an odd sort bandit, the scout exined. He didn''t be an ouw because he was wanted or for the money, although he certainly got both. No, he chose to be an ouw because he was a northern patriot. He was fighting the control of the North by Eloria and Deveshur. I''d guess he''s serving under Herad because he has nowhere else to go. Hes more at home out here in the wilds than in any city, and he won''t surrender and live under the southern boot.


    He stopped and took a quick drink from the cup in his hand before continuing. Everyone waited expectantly for him to finish.


    As for why he''s not the band''s leader, well that''s simple, it''s because the age of rebellion and causes is pretty much dead. We''re fighting for money and power, and no one is more dedicated to that than Herad. Of course, that means that under her we do a lot of things Saeter doesn''t approve of, the scout told them.


    Gerahd leaned back again with a contemtive look on his face. Everyone around the fire was silent. Only the crackle of the fire and the chirp of insects could be heard.


    That''s quite the story indeed. It really cant picture Saeter as any type of leader, but I don''t think you''re all lying to me. It would certainly exin a lot as well, Gerald responded after a minute or so of thought.


    Well, whether you believe it or not it''s all true. Just don''t go mentioning any of this where Saeter or Herad could hear you. If you enjoy living that is, the first speaker replied with shrug.


    I''m not aplete and utter moron, Geralhd said with a roll of his eyes.


    cknail was curled up close to the fire and deep in thought about what he had just heard. So his master had been a chieftain, until he had lost some sort of fight and ended up alone. Herad had let him in her tribe, but she didntpletely trust him not to challenge her. That made sense to cknail, it was sort of goblin-like.


    Fine, if you can keep it to yourself then I will tell you the best part, one of the men told an intrigued looking Geralhd. You see Saeters band wasnt just a


    Suddenly, a cloaked figure swept out from the shadows. Everyone around the fire jerked in surprise, or sprung to their feet with looks of rm on their faces. Saeter red at them as he stopped and surveyed the group. Most the bandits wilted guiltily under his gaze. Geralhd gave him a weak smile.


    Oh hey, Saeter. We were just, ah, talking about some things that had noth... he began to exin but Saeter cut him off.


    I don''t care, he said as he glowered at them. His brows were scrunched together angrily but his voice seemed to contain a hint of worry. Two of the men are missing. They were seen after the attack and weren''t together. Something entered the camp and dragged them away.

 Honor Among Thieves 9

    Honor Among Thieves 9


    No one got a lot of sleep that night, and not just because the watch was doubled. Everyone was too on edge to rx.


    The only exception to this was cknail. He was reasonably certain that with all the big pink humans running around nothing would bother going after a skinny little goblin. Also, if anything really dangerous attacked the camp then all the human screams would wake him up.


    When dawn finally brightened the camp, Saeter led a search party out to look for traces of the missing men. After an extensive search they found nothing, not even the smallest signs of a struggle.


    "I really don''t like this," one of the scouts told Saeter.


    As was usual when Saeter was talking to people, cknail followed his master quietly and listened in. Everyone ignored him unless he spoke up.


    "Who would?" Saeter replied with a grunt.


    "True, but what I meant is that it''s one thing for something to kill two men, but its another thing entirely for something to do it while leaving absolutely no tracks! Your goblin couldnt even smell anything, Saeter!" the scout continued excitedly.


    Maybe they walked off together. Couldve been bedmates or something, someone else guessed.


    Thats bloody disgusting. Jon was my friend and he was no bugger. He also sure as all hells wouldnt have gone walking out into the forest in the middle of the night without telling anyone! another bandit answered angrily.


    There aint anything wrong with two men sharing a bed out here. The god Slyph-Usra himself smiles upon it. Its just like sailors when theyre out at sea, the first man began arguing defensively.


    Youre like the only follower of that god in the entire camp, the other bandit countered angrily. Most of us are soldiers. We follow the Azur-Waj, the war god, and he doesnt look so kindly upon such things. Its undisciplined and in unhealthy.


    Ha, were thieves now, even if we used to be soldiers. Most the band worships Cor-Dius, and he doesnt care what people do in darkness, a third bandit added dismissively.


    This isnt relevant, Saeter remarked sternly as he cut off any further argument.


    A few hostile looks were exchanged but all the other bandits stopped arguing. Saeter was in charge and they had a job to do.


    I hate to be the one to say it, but this is looking more and more like the work of someone in the band, a mustached man remarked, which caused several others to give him annoyed looks.


    So, someone just decided to murder two men who barely knew each other and were on opposite ends of the camp? a short bandit countered.


    It does seem unlikely, but they must have been in on something together. Murder would exin theck of anything but human tracks, and nothing else will, the mustached bandit responded with a suspicious nce at the man arguing with him.


    Not necessarily, Saeter mused aloud.


    Everyone else grew quiet. Most of the bandits looked confused, but a few of the more experienced scouts looked grim or upset instead.


    Well, feel free to enlighten us Saeter, someone eventually said to break the silence.


    I can think of a few things it could have been. Firstly, it couldve been some sort of crystal host with a weird power, Saeter exined.


    The ouws threw each other questioning looks and spoke among themselves for a few seconds. They didnt seem convinced.


    Thats only one thing. What are the others? someone asked.


    Well cross that bridge when wee upon it, Saeter replied grimly.


    A crystal mutant cant be our best option, someone muttered skeptically.


    Leave it alone, you dont want to know, an older voice responded.


    Just then the sound of hooves echoed down the road to the camp. Everyone looked up in time to see a horsewoman ride into the clearing. Several of the ouws reached for weapons but they rxed a bit when they recognized her as one of the women who had gone with Herad.


    After spotting Saeter and the group around him, the rider headed their way. She smiled at Saeter as she approached. cknail scowled at the horse. He didnt want the stinky thing toe any closer.


    Saeter, Herad sent me ahead. Shes on her way back with the goods. The raid was a sess, the rider told them.


    How long? Saeter asked her.


    Theyll be a few hours if they keep up the pace they were holding when I left, the woman replied.


    Saeter didnt look any happier to know the rest of the band would be back soon. He scowled as he looked down the empty road.


    We should get ready for them then, Saeter told the other bandits.


    He waved them off after reminding them to never go anywhere alone and to always have a weapon on hand. Saeter then headed back to his campsite, and sent cknail out to check some meat he was smoking.


    The goblin headed over to where a thick pir of grey smoke was rising from a small heap of evergreen branches. Excitedly, he pushed the branches away to reveal the pit and me beneath them, but the meat hanging inside didnt look quite done. It also didnt taste fully cooked. With a disappointed grunt, the goblin returned the now nibbled meat and headed back to his master.


    He made it back to Saeters campsite right before the return of the raid party. The first of the victorious bandits came down the road and immediately began finding ces to copse and rest. Most of them looked exhausted, and were dripping with sweat. Many of them also had some sort of injury bandaged up.


    The smell of sweat, blood, and pus was everywhere and filled the goblins nose. He hadnt though the humans could smell any worse. cknail pinched his long green nose shut. Eew, had he ever been wrong.


    Saeter scowled as he took the scene in. He seemed to disapprove of the ragged state of the men and women. Thest few bandits came down the road with a pair of wagons covered in tarps.


    Quite a few of them are missing, the old scout muttered with a hint of concern.


    Herad was at the very back of the returning bandits. The first thing the ck haired woman did when she came into sight was head Saeters way. Vorscha and Red Dog followed closely behind her.


    cknail was shocked by Herads bloodthirsty grin. For a second, he was afraid she was going to take a bite out of his masters face, but then he realized she was just in a good mood. He had never seen her smile before, and he didnt like it.


    The raid was a sess, Saeter! The weapons are all mine, she gloated triumphantly as she marched towards the old scout and cknail.


    Good, we need them. I see you lost more than a few men, Saeter observed nomittally.


    Herad just shrugged as she uncharacteristically ignored any criticism that could have been implied by the words.


    With two recent and profitable raids under our belts recruiting to fill the holes in our ranks wont be a problem. Its not like there is a shortage of scum and thugs around here, she replied with a hint of condescension.


    Saeter frowned and cknail noticed Vorscha react with a scowl as well. Red Dog seemed to agree with Herad, though.


    All we need to do is recruit some more in Riverdown and the surrounding countryside. Its one of the main reasons we built this camp in the first ce, so that we would have a ce toy low close to a city, he told the rest of them.


    True, but its always better to keep the men weve got than to have to rece them with unknown, Vorscha started to add before Herad cut her off.


    Enough. Dont question my decisions. I promised every man and woman who joined my band a chance at plunder. The gods know I sure didnt offer them safety, Herad interjected, as she gave everyone a cold stare.


    The other men and woman around her lowered their eyes in submission, and even Saeter nodded his grudging eptance.


    So, what now then? Saeter asked her.


    Herad smiled fiercely again in response. Behind her, Red Dog and Vorscha gave each other uneasy nces. It was clear they were both apprehensive about something.


    Like Red Dog said, now we will start recruiting heavily. I want to do more than just rece our losses. Its time to build the band up into a real force to be reckoned with, she exined eagerly.


    Red Dog lips twisted into a concerned frown as he listened to Herad. He seemed hesitant to speak up but his concern overcame his reluctance to question Herad.


    Begging your pardon boss but that doesnt seem like its going to put more silver in our pockets. Having more men isn''t really going to help us pull off more raids, but it will mean less loot for the rest of us, Red Dogmented carefully.


    The times are changing, and so it''s time to change with them, Herad replied cryptically.


    Werick, Saeter guessed grimly as his eyes narrowed with hostility.


    Herad nodded in confirmation at of his response.


    Yes, Werick. The man may be an idiot but hes right about at least one thing. More and more deserters and criminals are headed north, but theres not enough room for them. All the bands are beginning to turn on each other as they fight for plunder. Even worse, all the good targets are disappearing. Its like what Saeter keeps bitching about, too much bloody banditry will just cause everyone to stop trading and leave. Its already happening, thats why we had toe so far south, she exined.


    So you want to buildup our ranks so you can strike even further south? Saeter asked uncertainly.


    No, its no longer about raiding caravans and quick gold, its about territory. Out East Werick is setting himself up like some sort of lord. Either we do the same or someone else will, and then well end up working for them or more likely dead, she exined.


    So what does that mean exactly? If were not going to keep raiding caravans and viges then what are we supposed to do? Red Dog asked as Herad gave him a patronizing look.


    Like I said, we hold territory and we make people pay for safe passage through it. That way we make a profit without driving all the merchants away. Well make less from each caravan but there will be more of them. Ive already got a message from one merchant asking to pay protection fees, she told him.


    Vorscha looked skeptical. Saeter had gone totally quiet. cknail gave him a closer look and was surprised to see that the old scout seemed shocked about something. His weathered face had gone pale and ck.


    If were promising safe passage then we will have to enforce it. That means recruiting, driving away, or killing every other bandit group for leagues, Vorscha mused aloud.


    So, thats exactly what well do. We recruit more men and kill everyone who challenges us, Herad replied matter of factly.


    Well, the weapons we just stole and the gold we will get for selling them will suree in handy now. You do realize this will eventually bring us into conflict with every other band of ouws trying to the same thing, including Werick, until there is only one bandit left on top, Vorscha said with an amused snort.


    Oh I know that, Vorscha. If someone is going to be bandit lord of the North then its going to be me, Herad purred wickedly. She practically oozed bloodlust as she smiled.


    Youre the boss. Ill follow where you lead, Red Dog told Herad quickly and nervously.


    Herad turned to look at Saeter. He was still deep in thought, and was looking down at the ground with one hand on his forehead. She frowned at him.


    You usually have something to say Saeter, so say it, she told him.


    cknails master looked up.


    Youre the boss, he told her with a distracted manner.


    He seemed troubled by something and his eyes looked unfocused. Herad was a little taken aback by his response, and gave him an odd look.


    You finally going senile, Saeter? she asked him.


    His only reply was a grunt as he kept staring at the ground. An irritated look appeared on Herads face, and a concerned one appeared on Vorchas.


    Go take a nap, Saeter, if youre so tired. Would you mind updating me on how things went while I was gone, first though, she asked him impatiently.


    Saeter finally looked up and seemed to think her words over for second.


    It was pretty quiet. Not much important happened. Last night though, two men went missing. I had a look around with some of the other scouts, but we couldnt find any traces of whatever grabbed them. Its probably still out there, he told her.


    That seems bloody important to me, Red Dog eximed anxiously.


    He then cast a look around the clearing as if he was expecting something to attack them then and there. Vorscha also looked taken aback and she frowned in concern. Herad cast any annoyed look at both Red Dog and Saeter. She drew one of her knives and casually flipped it through the air a few times.


    What do you think it is? she asked the old scout calmly. cknail thought he detected more than a little repressed hostility in her stance and voice. Saeter hesitated before answering.


    I dont want to guess, but since youre the one asking I dont have much choice, he replied with a grimace. Its bloody unlikely but it could be a mutant of some sort. It could also be one of the Flore Kurava, although again its unlikely


    Wait, are you serious? a startled Vorscha eximed.


    Whats a Florakevera? asked Red Dog in confusion as his tongue tripped over the word.


    One of the forest people, Herad answered for Saeter. She had started to look thoughtful.


    Those are real? Red Dog asked in surprise.


    Real as diamonds and death, just because people dont see them doesnt mean they arent out there. One of them could have walked into camp and killed those men without leaving a trace, Saeter exined.


    But you dont think one did, do you? Herad asked Saeter suspiciously.


    The old scout shook his head.


    No, they havente this far south in over a century, and it doesnt seem like something they would do. Its too petty. They would have killed more people and wouldnt have taken the bodies away. Unfortunately, the most likely option by far is that its Saeter reluctantly told them before he was cut off.


    Ghouls, Herad hissed angrily.


    Red Dog went pale and took a step back. Vorscha started swearing and cursing nonstop, but Saeter just nodded grimly. The humans reactions intrigued cknail. What were ghouls? Maybe something exciting was about to happen!


    I take it you didnt share these concerns with anyone, Herad asked him sharply as Saeter shook his head in answer.


    Well, at least you did that right. How sure are you? she asked.


    If its ghouls then theyll strike again tonight, he replied emotionlessly.


    Herad nodded thoughtfully. Her short ck hair fell in front of her eyes and she brushed it aside.


    Then we have a lot to do before nightfall, the bandit chieftain told her lieutenants.


    Herad took charge and began toy out a n. Before she let them go, Herad swore them all to secrecy.


    She forgot about cknail, but he had no idea what they had been talking about so it didnt matter. Also, he wasnt going to talk about something that would make Herad mad anyway. He liked living too much.


    The goblin followed Saeter back to their campsite. His master didnt go back to their normal routine of chores, though. He didnt even start doing something exciting for Herad. He just copsed down onto one of the cut up logs beside the fire pit they used as chairs, with his head in his hands again. That was no fun.


    cknail just stood there for a few minutes as he waited for his master to do something, but Saeter didnt move. The goblin didnt know what was going on. He tilted his head to the side as he examined his master and tried to figure it out.


    Maybe his master was afraid of the ghouls? cknail gave his master a closer look. No, that didnt seem right. Saeter looked almost sad...


    Had someone stolen his food? That was what made cknail sad, but that didnt seem right either. Saeter had plenty of food stored away.


    Well, cknail had no intention of just standing around forever. The goblin walked over and sat beside his master. cknail leaned against his masters leg as he rxed and gotfortable.


    Several secondster, the goblin felt a hand lightly pat him on the head. It felt nice. He nced up to see master looking down at him with a resigned expression.


    cknails master had never patted him on the head before. That was more Geralhds thing. cknail really wished he knew what was going on. He was starting to grow concerned.


    She might just do it, Saeter remarked unhappily as he stared off into space.


    cknail gave him a nk look. He wasnt sure who they were even talking about. Was Saeter talking to him? He was definitely looking right at him, and there was no one else here


    Wouldnt that be a great joke, his master added bitterly. After all Ive been through and everything thats been lost, Herad might just seed where Ive failed.


    cknail thought Herad was probably better than Saeter at a lot of things. His master was obviously better at stuff like hunting though, so it wasnt a big deal. Why was his master so upset?


    Saeter sighed deeply as he petted cknail again.


    You have no idea what Im talking about do you, goblin? Saeter asked him.


    No ideas, cknail replied as he shook his head with a confused expression on his face.


    Saeter smiled sadly down at the goblin. There seemed to be more wrinkles around his eyes than normal.


    My entire life I had one dream. It was the thing I really wanted in life. Its why I became a rebel and an ouw. Everything I did was to unite the north and free it from the stranglehold of the south. Now here I am an old washed up failure, and Herad tells us that she ns to set herself up as bandit queen of whats left of the North! After all these years and so many lives lost its Herad that might do it. Herad the ck Snake, a murderous bitch with no allegiance to anyone but herself, Saeter exined as he began tough wildly.


    cknail grew rmed and his eyes widened as he heard Saeters uncontrolledughter. His master was acting very weird!


    The goblin looked around for someone or something that would calm Saeter down, but he didnt see anything. Desperately, the goblin started to think.


    His master was upset because he had failed to get something, and Herad might get it instead. It was a dream, but not like what you saw when you slept. Saeter had said it was something hed really wanted to do his entire life, and failed. cknail didnt have a dream like that. The closest he had to a dream was the stuff in his


    The goblin got up and searched through his pouches. He found the one where he stored the things other people had forgotten about, or left lying around for other people who wanted them more. He reached into it and pulled out the shiniest bits.


    cknail then extended his hands and offered them to Saeter. His master stoppedughing and looked down at him. The old scout slowly reached down and picked the items up to examine them.


    Some coins, ss beads, paper, and a golden key. Are you trying to cheer me up cknail? he asked the goblin with a surprised tone.


    cknail nodded. Saeter smiled down at him.


    Where did you get the key from, though? I hope you didnt take it from Herad, he asked.


    No, masters enemy with the vwagons, cknail answered with a sly smile.


    Saeter looked confused for a minute as he tried to figure out what cknail meant, but then he smiled broadly.


    You mean Persus dont you. You actually stole Persus chest key. Good boy, serves that bastard right, Saeter cheerfullyughed as he patted the goblin on the head again.


    Thank you, cknail. Ill take the key but you can keep the rest. Now that Im done feeling sorry for myself wed better deal with this ghoul problem, Saeter told him.


    cknail smiled back at his master. He had no idea what his master was trying to say but he was happy Saeter was no longer upset.


    Saeter then got to his feet and began to get ready. cknail saw him go into his tent ande out carrying a sheathed sword he had never seen before. His master usually used a bow or long knife, not a sword.


    Saeter drew the sword and held it before himself. Sunlight glinted off the de as Saeter looked at it with a peaceful but resolved expression on his face.


    Come, cknail. Herad might not be anyones choice for queen of the North, but thats fine, because I doubt she cares. So, lets deal with this ghoul infestation and then everyone else who gets in our way, he announced with determination.


    The old scout sheathed the de at his waist and walked forward. His steps were heavy with newfound purpose as he once again went forth to fight for his dream. cknail sauntered after him; he hoped there would be treats.

 Honor Among Thieves 10

    Honor Among Thieves 10


    Darkness descended upon the Herads base, and it began to reek of fear, as long as you were a goblin and could actually smell fear anyway.


    Even the most oblivious humans eventually started to notice the dark atmosphere that was building up. Everyone began to look nervous, and they instinctively joined together into small familiar groups for protection.


    Herad didnt like it. She wasnt sure if the situation had somehow leaked or if everyone just sensed something was wrong. Whatever the reason though, everyone was clearly not acting normally. Her mood got fouler and she scowled at everyone as she waited for nightfall.


    She had ordered the watch tripled and had her most trusted men making other preparations as well. These included another huge bonfire in the middle of the camp and arge pit she had some of the bandits digging. The fire was supposedly for a celebration and the pit was officially for storage, but even cknail could tell that most the bandits sensed something was off about that exnation.


    cknail also noticed that an unusually high amount of bandits were armed with new looking spears, and the men that had them were always standing around together. That was more than a little suspicious.


    The weapons must havee from the hoard that Herad had stolen. Spears were not a popr weapon with the ouws normally. They were awkward to carry around.


    cknail observed all this with interest from where he was helping dig the pit. He liked digging, but this hole was getting sort ofrge. It was already deeper than he was tall. As he dug into the earth with his ws and dodged wayward shovel des, he wondered what they were going to bury in it.


    Every once in a while the goblin would climb up and peek out of the pit to make sure he wasnt missing anything exciting. Nothing had happened yet, but everyone seemed to be holding their breath nervously and jumping at shadows.


    Soon, it grew dark enough that it was hard to see, so fires were lit to brighten the clearing. Not only the big bonfire was set ame, several smaller fires around the clearing were lit as well.


    Finally, the pit was finished. It had been dug as deep as a man was tall, and was wide enough for a dozen men to squeeze into. After they were done, Saeter and cknail wandered over to Herad.


    The bandit cheiftain was standing at one corner of the camp and gazing out into the woods. Around her the sick and wounded were gathered beside a small fire. There were always a few of them around. Some of them recovered, and others didnt. cknail could smell the stench of rotting flesh under the sharp tangy smell of various herbs as they approached.


    So, what do you think? Herad asked Saeter.


    She didnt turn to look at them, instead she kept scrutinizing the woods at the edge of the clearing. The light from the fires pushed the shadows back all the way to the trees but didnt prate them.


    Its a half decent n, as long as you dont mind risking yourself and the wounded, he replied doubtfully.


    Ah well, I have less to worry about from ghouls than most. The magic that runs through my veins will make sure of that, she answered him as she turned and grinned arrogantly.


    Dont be overconfident. Even Vessels can fall prey to a ghouls more mundane weapons, he told her. cknail thought he sensed a tremor of concern in his voice.


    Just take your position and wait, old man. If youre worried about me then just make sure you dont shoot me in the back, she replied scornfully as she turned back towards the woods.


    Saeter then did something unexpected. Instead of his usual farewell grunt he very quickly gave Herad a slight bow, and a humorous grin shed across his face.


    As you wish, he told her before spinning around and walking off.


    Confusion was in on Herads face as she gazed after Saeter inquisitively. When her eyes fell across the sword at his hip they widened in surprise, if only for a brief second before she recovered.


    cknail and his master left her there as they headed over to a pile of nearby crates that had been ced under a tarp strung up between several poles.


    Once there, Saeter took a seat in a shadowed corner, where he could see most the camp but was hidden from sight. He ced his bow in hisp and went still.


    cknail groaned. He had a pretty good idea where this was going, nowhere. Saeter was obviouslyying in wait for something, and it sometimes took hours for his prey to show up.


    With a sigh, cknail sat down next to his master. His mind wandered. They were hunting something, probably those ghoul things. Did that mean the ghouls would being right into camp? That seemed very stupid unless ghouls were ridiculously tough, and if that were the case then what good would a bow do?


    The camp slowly ground to a halt around them. As nervous and afraid as most of the bandits were, the majority of them still werent going to stay up the entire night. Eventually, the ground was littered with sleeping bodies. Most of them were huddled around brightly lit fires.


    Herads extra guards patrolled the border of the camp inrge groups. As he sat there, bored out of his mind, cknail noticed that they seemed to be avoiding the part of the camp where Herad and the wounded where. Herad herself seemed to be just sitting by the fire and resting.


    His master had mentioned something about bait. cknail sniggered quietly. Were they using Herad as part of the bait? That was ridiculous. No beast could possibly be stupid enough to go after Herad. That would just be suicide, but if they did try it then it would certainly be amusing!


    cknail yawned and thought about trying to sleep, but he quickly decided against it. He wanted to stay up and see these ghoul things, and Saeter would probably just wake him up anyway. Thats what he usually did when they went hunting.


    As the campfires began to die down, cknail watched a group of bandits emerge from the dark woods and stroll over to the wounded area without much interest. He was beginning to think nothing exciting would ever happen, until the sound of cloth shifting from behind startled him.


    Saeter had leaned forward and was watching the new group of bandits very carefully. He slowly prepped his bow. cknails eyebrows rose in surprise, and he threw another look at the group of approaching men.


    They seemed normal, and were probably justing back from relieving themselves in the forest or something. At least thats what he thought at first, but as they moved closer to the dimming light of the fires cknail began to notice several oddities.


    Their clothes were very simr to the rough and dirty outfits most the bandits wore but they were in even worse shape. It was hard to notice in the darkness but these men were wrapped in little more than rags.


    Maybe these bandits had been attacked, and that was why they were headed to the wounded area. That might exin Saeters interest in them.


    The next odd thing the goblin noticed was how the men were weirdly in synch. It was subtle, they moved like they were aware of each other at all times, like a pack of predators, or even one single being. Humans didnt move like that, cknail realized with a shock.


    The things that looked like men were almost upon the wounded now. A small gust of wind blew past cknail, and brought a new scent with it. It smelled human but also of sickness.


    cknail realized that the scent had been around for a while, but he hadnt recognized it before now. It had been too slight.


    Not men! cknail whispered nervously to Saeter.


    His master apparently believed him because he nodded and strung an arrow to his bow. Then, he rose to his feet and sighted on one of the things.


    The call of a night bird issued from Saeters lips mere moments before an arrow flew from his bow. The arrow hissed through the air and impaled itself into the chest of one of the man things, knocking it down to the ground with a hollow pping sound.


    Soon, another dozen arrows leapt out of the darkness towards their targets. Saeters bird call had been the signal to attack.


    The sudden shower of arrows fell upon the things cknail assumed to be ghouls. Arrows mmed into the ghouls bodies and heads. Most of them fell to the ground and twitched.


    cknail was actually sort of disappointed. He had been expecting something much more exciting to happen. This was too easy.


    Then, the ghouls began to pull themselves back up onto their feet. The arrows sticking out from their bodies didnt stop them, or even slow them down. One after another, the thin ragged figures rose.


    A cacophony of inhuman hisses filled the air, as the now obviously inhuman creatures burst forward towards their targets with unnatural speed. The nearby bandits and the wounded shouted fearfully in rm.


    Herad rose to meet them from where she had been hidden among the injured. Her sword leapt into her right hand as a long dagger appeared in the other. Her ck cloak pped behind her and her des shed through the air as she lunged forward to intercept the ghouls.


    Beside cknail, Saeter cursed and leapt to his feet, as he drew his own de. The goblin heard other ouws react behind him.


    There are more of the bloody damned things than we thought, Saeter spat angrily as he rushed towards the ghouls.


    cknail tentatively followed his master from a few paces back. It wasnt that he was scared; obviously, he just didnt want to get in the way.


    Ahead of them, Herad had engaged the ghouls in a lightning fast melee. She danced around them and their wild attacks. Her des sliced into them and sent spurts of unsettling ck blood into the air, but she didnt seem to be doing any real damage to the creatures. They just kepting.


    There were seven ghouls and only four of them were armed with any sort of weapon. Two had swords, one wielded a long dagger, and one clumsily swung a lumber axe around. The unarmed ones seemed perfectly happy to attack with their bare hands, and they made up for theirck of skill with pure speed and inhuman ferocity.


    As cknail followed Saeter closer he got a better look at Herads assants. Every one of them was skinny and their exposed skin was a pale wormy white that reminded him of maggot flesh.


    The hoods and scarves that had been covering their faces had fallen from several of them as they fought, to reveal hairless heads and horribly gaunt faces with ck eyes empty of everything but mad hunger.


    The ghouls kept throwing themselves forward in a ravenous berserk rage, while ignoring any damage they took in the progress. Herad ducked under a wild axes swing to counter with a knife stab to her opponents chest. She had to quickly withdraw though, as another ghoul came up from her other side and shed at her with its rusty dagger.


    She threw herself back to avoid the blow but ended up off bnce and too close to another ghoul. Its jaws stretched wide as it screamed ravenously and swung a wed hand at her face. The blow connected and sent her spiraling across the earth.


    While the creatures appeared to be unthinking berserkers, they fought so well together they almost seemed to be in formation. The pack of ghouls split in two as three of them circled Herad and the other four broke off and made a dash for the injured and sick.


    Those of the wounded who could move were now running, but not all of them were so lucky. Screams of terror and pain filled the night as the ghouls tore through the wounded bandits.


    Herad pulled herself to her feet as she eyed the ghouls circling her. She raised her dagger hand to wipe her face, and scowled as it came away covered in blood. She had a bloody gash down the side of her face. The bandit chieftain spat towards the closest ghoul, raised her weapons, and then threw herself back into the fight.


    By this time Saeter had reached the ghouls who were feasting upon the still twitching corpses of the injured. They were between him and Herad. He rushed over andunched a series of shes at a ghoul that was bent over and stuffing its mouth full of bloody human flesh.


    His attack only gave the pale monstrosity a few superficial cuts and forced it to take a step back. Then all at once, the nearby ghouls hissed, and rose from where they had been frantically eating their grisly meals to face him.


    Luckily for him, the closest patrol and Vorscha were right behind him. The spearmen drove the ghouls back as the creatures all tried to rush teh old scout. The bandits thrust their spears forward all together. A wall of iron de tips pushed the outnumbered creatures back.


    Half the ghouls almost immediately ended up impaled on several long spears that held them in ce. The other two made it through.


    The first ghoul knocked a spear aside and leaped over the rest in a frightening lunge attack, but Vorscha was ready and her spear punched right through its chest before it couldnd. She then swung the stunned airborne ghoul around and mmed her spears tip into a nearby barrel. The ghoul iled and spat, but was stuck and couldnt move.


    As the second ghoul attacked, a bandit shoved his spear tip through its guts. It kepting; the creature started pulling itself up the now ck and bloody spear shaft to get at the weapons wielder.


    The seemingly unstoppable ghoul was finished off when Saeter brought his de down in a two handed swing that cleaved into its neck. The creature shuddered violently and vomited up ck blood that smelled like putrid meat. Then, it went limp.


    Meanwhile, Herad was desperately trying to keep the other three ghouls at bay. She had broken out of their encirclement but had to constantly keep moving and attacking to prevent them from regaining it.


    The bandit chieftain had also managed to disable the arm of one ghoul with a heavy strike, and it now hung uselessly at the ghouls side. Another limped as it chased after her and ck blood oozed from a deep cut on its thigh. However, it was clear that she was getting slower while the ghouls appeared incapable of pain or exhaustion. They just kepting and would eventually drag her down.


    Saeter looked up from where he was fighting and saw that Herad was in trouble. He stepped back from the spearmen and moved over to get a clearer view. He then sheathed his sword and took up the bow he had across his back. Carefully he set up a shot.


    As the uninjured ghoul fighting Herad stopped to screech, Saeters arrow took it through the side of the head. It fell over and begun to flop around on the ground like a huge desated maggot. That left Herad fighting only the two injured ghouls.


    She whirled in to attack the ghoul with only one working arm from its vulnerable side, before the limping ghoul could catch up. Her sword bit into its undefended neck, and ck blood sprayed out as it copsed. The limping ghoul then lunged at her in an attempt to catch her off bnce.


    Herad saw iting and whipped her dagger through the air and into the ghouls eye socket. It screamed and shuddered for a few seconds before stepping forward to resume its attack.


    That was all the time Herad needed. She turned, drew another dagger, and then unleashed a whirlwind of shes at thest ghoul. It tried to ignore them and charge her but Herad slid easily out of its way.


    The mass of little cuts all over its body and the knife embedded in its eye began to wear the ghoul down. It faltered and Herads sword tore its throat out.


    The pale creature started twitching but remained upright as it gazed malevolently at Herad. Blood gushed from its torn throat as itunched itself at Herad yet again. She dodged to the side, as the ghoul copsed mid-leap. Now, none of the creatures were left standing.


    Herad slowed and stopped moving. She was breathing heavily and the gash down her cheek was bleeding steadily.


    She stared at the three disabled ghouls on the ground in front of her for a few seconds to make sure they werent going to get back up. She then groaned and dropped her weapons.


    Well, thats the easy part out of the way, she told Saeter, as he ran up and tossed her a bag of medical supplies.


    The scout grunted in reply and she began wiping herself off and applying a salve to her face.


    Once she was done Herad ordered the spearmen to keep everyone away from what was left of the ghouls. cknail tried to get a closer look at the remains but the spearmen shooed him away. The goblin wasnt too upset, the creatures mangled bodies smelled really bad anyway.


    Herad then had some of her men use their spears to push the ghouls onto a tarp, and had the tarp dumped into the pit cknail had helped dig. Everything touched by the ghouls or their blood was thrown in the pit.


    This included clothes, even Herads. She stripped off her leathers and threw them in as well. cknail got a brief glimpse of a thin, muscr, and scarred body for a second before Vorscha draped a clean cloak over her boss shoulders and handed her some new clothes.


    Damned ghouls! I liked that armor. At least we shouldnt have to worry about further infection now, Herad cursed.


    True, but we still have to worry about those already infected. Those ghouls probably already infiltrated the camp several times before they got hungry enough to start abducting people, Saeter responded.


    He then cast a disturbed look towards the remains of the wounded who had been used to lure the ghouls out. He clearly didnt like that they had been used as bait.


    What about you? How do I know youre not infected? Herad asked him with an upraised eyebrow.


    I always carry a sk of powdered silver and garlic extract on me just for asions like this, Saeter replied.


    Expensive and paranoid, I approve. If I wasnt already immune I would have to steal it from you, Herad said as she shed him a quick grin.


    Thats the only reason I told you. Just dont ask me to share. I barely have enough for myself, he said.


    Thats too bad. Here I was hoping to skip this next part, she responded as she began walking towards the center of the camp.


    Im afraid thats not going to happen, Saeter told her. Were still going to have to lock the camp down and iste everyone as much as possible. You wont know who is infected until the disease progresses enough that silver and garlic start burning them, and even then you have worry about the turned breaking out and spreading the disease further.


    How many ghoul attacks have you seen Saeter? Herad asked him with sudden curiosity.


    Three now, and thats far too many, he answered with a scowl.


    cknail was trailing his master. They walked by a group of shocked looking bandits who were seated around a fire. The goblin was d to be away from the creepy ghoul things. They didnt act like animals at all.


    cknail took a deep breath of clean air to calm himself, but sneezed violently when a unwee scent tickled his nose. Instinctively, he turned to look at one of the nearby bandits and began sniffing. Curious now, he moved closer to get a better scent.


    Saeter stopped and gave the goblin an inquiring look.


    What are you doing, cknail? he asked the goblin.


    Smell ghouls, cknail replied as he gazed intently at one man who was sitting nearby.


    The bandit was now staring back at cknail with a very concerned look on his face. Before the man could say anything though, Herad walked over and gave him a look. The man wilted under her attention. It was impressive how without even speaking she could give orders, like shut up or Ill stab you.


    You can smell infection? she asked the goblin.


    It was the first time she had ever addressed cknail directly. The goblin froze as he suddenly became the center of everyones undivided attention. The bandit chieftains dark stare was making him very ufortable and upsetting his stomach.


    He smell little like ghoul, the startled goblin replied, and Herad smiled viciously at his response.


    Well now, I guess youve finally made yourself useful, she told him.


    A pleased Herad quickly had cknail tour the camp and sniff everyone. If someone smelled wrong, or if cknail just didnt like them, several of Herads goons dragged them away.


    The infected were isted until they could be tested. Archers were put into position around the infected zone to kill them from a distance if they tried anything. None of them did. Herad made it in what would happen to people who tried to run, and no one wanted to test her.


    Eventually, the disease progressed enough that the bandits could be tested. cknail watched with interest as a small silver knife was applied to their skin. The flesh of the infected burned and rose into red welts at its touch.


    Then came the killing, the burned couldnt be saved. Herad either decapitated them or they were brought down by archers as they tried to flee.


    Their corpses were then thrown into the pit along with stacks of firewood. As everyone watched in silence, a stone faced Herad dropped a torch in the hole. Roaring mes burst out and consumed all trace of the dead.


    The camp was quiet and morose for several days after that. Between the raid on the weapon caravan and the ghoul attack the poption of the camp had been drastically reduced. Many of the bandits had lost friends orrades, some of them had even taken a hand in their friends deaths.


    There were exceptions to this, though. As usual, Herad revealed no attachment to anyone but herself, and Saeter thought most of the bandits were scum anyway.


    Oddly enough, these events caused cknail to make some new friends. A few of the sick had been identified early enough that they were able to cure themselves with powdered silver and garlic. Without the goblins warning they would have never known they were infected.


    cknail thus became popr with several bandits. They even began sneaking him treats, and he started putting on weight. Not only was he getting yummy food, but he also started to feel like a real member of the tribe! Herad herself had told him he was useful. She never told anyone that!


    Then one night, cknail the goblin curled up and went to sleep next to his masters tent for thest time.

 Interlude: Ember in Ashes

    Interlude: Ember in Ashes


    Saeter woke from sleep feeling tired and sore, which he supposed just meant he hadnt grown any younger overnight. The ground was hard beneath him even with a nket between him and it, but he had be used to the feeling over the years. He had spent so many nights sleeping on the earth that softness now seemed alien and ufortable to him.


    He opened his eyes to see the morning light slipping through the cloth walls of his small cozy tent. With a grunt and a not inconsiderable act of will he tossed his nkets off and quickly got dressed. That done he took a small sip of water from the canteen beside his bed; his mouth was always dry in the morning.


    His morning ritualplete, Saeter flipped open the p of his tent and stepped outside into the crisp morning air. As was usualtely, the sight of the ouw camp greeted him as he looked around.


    Once he was sure no one was close he let out a small sigh of fatigue before forcing himself to get his gear together for this mornings hunt. He just didnt have the energy he used to have. A lot of people called Saeter an old man, but he knew he wasnt one, even if he was just barely the oldest person around.


    It was simply that his lifestyle had aged him, and kept demanding more from him when he had little left to give. He had seen somewhere around 40 winters, but had forgotten the exact amount. In his youth he had known many men and women over that age and well beyond it, but they were rare out in the wilds.


    He refused to let himself give in to misery though. Out here in the green was exactly where he wanted to be. In his youth he had loved the forest and that feeling had never left him. He could not think of a better ce to live and die than the wilds of the North.


    Saeters heart fluttered slightly and his soul stirred as he remembered recent events. The dream he had thought long dead had shown the tiniest bit of life again after all these years. Hope it seemed, could do what all else couldnt, make him feel young again.


    As Saeter looked around he spotted cknail sleeping in his usual spot, and a small smile crept onto his face. The goblin had dug himself a shallow dirt bed and was hidden under his nket.


    cknail had sure been a great find. When he had first seen the little beast he had just thought he might be useful for carrying things and such.


    Saeter was past the point where he wanted to be dragging carcasses through the woods for half a day. He wasnt about to ask one of the other scouts for aid though, he could still keep up just fine by himself. He didnt need other peoples help just because he was getting older.


    After Saeter had taken him in cknail had quickly proven to be so much more than just a porter. First, he had impressed Saeter with his intelligence and how swiftly he had learned. He had shown he could do almost any simple task that Saeter took the time to teach him.


    Then the goblin had shown far more loyalty and discipline than Saeter had thought goblins were capable of. Saeter had thought the goblin would try to run before a few days were up, and with as much of his stuff as the goblin could carry. That hadnt happened; instead the goblin had clearly be attached to him.


    Sure cknail might be kind of ugly and cowardly, but he had also shown his loyalty beyond a doubt. Saeter didnt know what he would do if the little guy wasnt around anymore.


    The old man walked over and gave cknail a kick to wake him up. cknail however didnt stir. Saeter frowned. This was unusual, the goblin always at least turned to look at Saeter when his master woke him each morning. Saeter gave him a harder kick. cknail still didnt move.


    With newfound concern Saeter reached down and pulled the nket free from the goblins form. It snagged on something and wouldnte free though. Saeter gave it a little twist and it came off. The nket had gotten stuck on cknails little horns, that was all. It was nothing to worry about. His horns


    Misery and bloody damnation. Corodus drown you in vile darkness you miserable bastards! Saeter swore vehemently as he punched the air and shook with rage.


    Swearing was hardly unusual in the bandit camp but Saeters tirade drew the attention of everyone within earshot. He got quite a few concerned looks and severalughs.


    Saeter didnt give damn what the people around him thought but he forced himself to calm down, and chided himself for using a gods name in a curse. That was terribly bad luck, and would only make things worse.


    Suppressing his rage and his unacknowledged fear Saeter threw the nket back down over the goblin and stomped off to find Herad. He really didnt want to speak to Herad though, she had always no this wasnt the time for that. Saeter focused and pressed onwards.


    He made his way to Heradsmandeered farmhouse and marched up to the door. The usual two guards were there in front of it. Saeter didnt have the patience to deal with them.


    Move or Ill shoot you, he growled as he stomped towards them.


    The two mens eyes went wide in surprise and they hurriedly stepped out of his way. Saeter wondered why Herad even bothered with them. They were obviously useless as guards. Knowing Herad she probably just wanted to keep them away from anything important. One of them spoke out as he moved out of the way.


    Shes not actually in there, Saeter. She went to find Red Dog, the startled man told him.


    Saeter glowered at him from where he was standing in front of the door with one hand ready to knock. He huffed and then turned back the way he hade. The stupid ruffians should have mentioned that Herad was out right away, instead of wasting his time.


    Saeter turned around and started walking again. He thought Red Dogs lean-to was over by the south end of the camp, so he headed that way.


    He didnt even have a bow, one of the bandits remarked as Saeter stomped off.


    Saeter realized they were right, he could have sworn he had strapped it to his back earlier. Well, it wasnt like he needed a bow to show those brutes who was boss anyway. Right now he had much more important things to do.


    He passed several groups of early risers cooking or just sitting around their campfires as he headed across the camp. When he got close to Red Dogs site he looked ahead and saw Herad talking to Red Dog and Vorscha.


    Geralhd was standing in the background being a useless lump and following Vorscha around as usual. That stupid young man didnt realize what it took to survive out in the North.


    Red Dog saw himing and said something to Herad. She turned to look at Saeter as he approached. She mustnt have liked the look on his face because she grimaced at him. Vorchsa also gave Saeter a confused look. Bah, what did he care what they thought!


    Saeter walked over to them without saying anything. Now that he was here he was a little lost for words. He wasnt quite sure what would be the best way to say what he wanted. As he thought it over Herad gave him an exasperated look.


    Whats got up your backend, Saeter, she asked him rudely. Saeter glowered at her. He was having trouble controlling his emotions.


    Its about cknail, he hesitantly answered. Herad waved him off.


    Yes yes, hes made himself quite useful. You can keep the goblin. Ill eveny off about that stupid promise of yours about Werick, she replied dismissively. Saeter froze in surprise.


    No, thats not what I was saying. I cant keep the goblin because he started to say but Herad interrupted him with an annoyed look.


    You cant seriously be telling me that now you want to get rid of him? she asked in disbelief. Everyone around them also looked confused or surprised.


    No! I cant keep the goblin because I no longer have one, Saeter exined. This just earned him more confused looks.


    He ran off? Vorscha asked at the same time Gehd yelled, You killed him?


    Saeter scowled at them. These people were idiots.


    Listen Saeter, juste out and say it. Oh, and if youre ying some sort stupid game here where youre trying to make me ask you to keep the goblin then I will stab you. Are we clear? Herad told him with an annoyed tone.


    Saeter took a second to gather his thoughts before responding. He decided to be thorough in his answer so there would be no more stupid questions, or stabbings. He knew he was too useful for Herad to kill but that didnt mean she couldnt hurt him. She would undoubtedly enjoy it.


    cknail wouldnt wake up this morning, plus hes growing horns. That means hes gone into a sort of hibernation that goblins go into when theyre transforming into hobgoblins, he exined carefully.


    Everyones reaction to this news was different. Herads face instantly went nk so Saeter had no idea what she was thinking. Vorscha looked confused, while Geralhd looked excited, and Red Dog had a horrified expression on his face. Saeter scowled and waited for them to start asking him dumb questions.


    I thought goblins and hobgoblins were two different things, Vorscha said first. It was Geralhd that answered her.


    No, hobgoblins are a rare and usuallytent adult form of goblins. No one is quite sure what causes the transformation to ur when its obviously not needed for breeding, but its a fascinating question. Some smanders do something simr, he exined enthusiastically as Vorscha threw him an amused look.


    Hes transforming because you kept sneaking him treats! I had him on a diet for this very reason, you idiot, Saeter told the now guiltily flushing young man.


    Saeter knew he was partly to me because he had stopped enforcing that ruletely, but he would never admit it. He had even noticed cknail was putting on weight and hadnt done anything about it because he had gotten too attached to the goblin. That was stupid.


    Huh, I guess that means little cknail is growing up, Vorschamented.


    What it means is that we need to kill him, Red Dog told them angrily.


    Geralhd looked shocked at his words but Saeter had known this wasing. If Red Dog didnt say it than over half the camp was still sure to. Hobgoblins were very far from popr.


    I need? Watch yournguage, Herad told Red Dog with a raised eyebrow. He paused and then hastily rephrased himself.


    We should kill him. Hobgoblins are bloody dangerous. Theyre killers that would rather slit a mans throat than look at them. Theres a reason most countries have a bounty on their ugly green heads. Evil and ruin follow them. Taking one for a pet would be like taking a sea serpent for a mount. It can only end one way, he eximed angrily.


    Herads face was still nk and unrevealing. She seemed content to let the others speak, and Saeter wanted to wait and see what the others thought before saying anything himself. Geralhd huffed condescendingly at Red Dog.


    Thats nothing but myth and superstition. Its left over nonsense from the Goblin Wars, which werent even real wars. They just involved the early colonists killing a whole lot of goblin tribes as they cleared thend. As for the bounty, well theres a bigger bounty on your head Red Dog. Also, you kill people all the time and you dont see me being all terrified of you, Geralhd argued.


    I can take a hobgoblin easy, Vorscha added as she stood tall and crossed her arms in front of her. Red Dog ignored her and turned to Geralhd.


    Dont give me that schr crap, city boy. Ive actually fought a hobgoblin before and it killed a good friend of mine. If you had actually ever been anywhere near one before then you would be dead! No one here should even be considering letting one into camp. Theyre ursed savage fiends. Thats even what hob means, it means demon! Red Dog replied as his face grew red with anger.


    That shows the worth of your so called knowledge, Red Dog. Hobes from an old Imperial word for home. The original settlers called them hobgoblins because they were more tribal than normal goblins, and would asionally build their own shelter. It was only after the Goblin Wars that ignorant people, like you, begun to associate them with demons, Gehd exined to Red Dog, as the man grew angrier.


    Red Dog looked like he was about to explode and take Geralhd out with him, but Herad intervened.


    What do you want to do, Saeter? she asked him inly.


    Saeter wished he had some idea of what she was thinking, but she had always been a mystery to him in every situation that didnt immediately lead to violence.


    He sighed. The easiest thing would be to get rid of cknail, maybe they could leave him out in the woods somewhere instead of killing him. There were a bunch of problems with that though, like what would stop him from justing right back. Saeter knew he couldnt bring himself to kill cknail either.


    I can control him. It wont be a problem, he heard himself say, much to his own surprise.


    Red Dog scowled at him but Saeter just scowled back, and he had far more experience at it.


    This is a terrible idea. They eat people! Red Dog yelled.


    Its just one hobgoblin, Red. Do you really think something even smaller than you is so scary, Vorscha asked him teasingly.


    and as if cknail would hurt us! Gehd added.


    Saeter tried not to wince at the young mans naivety. Hobgoblins were dangerous, but then again everyone in this camp was. When Geralhd finally got himself killed it was much more likely to be another bandit that did it rather than anything else.


    Why is he even involved in this conversation? Hes a rookie, and a stupid one, Red Dog asked as he pointed to Geralhd.


    Saeter thought he actually had a good point there but kept his mouth shut. Geralhd was being a useful idiot this time around.


    Fine, Ive decided, Herad announced before anyone else could say something.


    Saeter can keep cknail, as long as he manages to keep him under control. That nose of his is useful enough to be worth a little risk, but one incident and hes gone.


    Saeter felt a wave of relief wash over him, and let out a deep rxed breath. He had been unsure of what Herad would decide; she had never been predictable. When he had seen cknails horns that morning he had known right away that he had a very good chance of losing his pet.


    With the discussion over Red Dog and Geralhd started arguing, as Herad stepped away and spoke with Vorscha. Having aplished his goal Saeter headed back to his campsite to check on cknail. He really didnt feel like more conversation and he had lots to do, especially now that cknail wouldnt be around to help out for awhile.


    Of course now that he had gotten Herads permission to keep cknail he had to actuallye up with some way to do what no one had ever aplished before, tame a hobgoblin.


    Saeter sighed. He had a feeling it was going to be a long and dangerous job. No matter what Geralhd naively believed hobgoblins had a bad reputation for good reasons. They were cunning and they were blood thirsty, and thatbination of traits had been the end of many men.


    A hobgoblin might not be quite as strong as a man and far weaker than a troll or ogre but neither of those would track a man unseen through the woods for miles and cut his throat when his guard was down. They also wouldnt lure someone into a well prepared ambush by a pack of goblins. Cunning could be far more dangerous than brute strength sometimes.


    Taming one would not be easy, even if it was cknail. When he woke up the former goblin would have a lot of new instincts moring around in his head that would make him hard to keep under control. Hobgoblins were aggressive and territorial, so getting one to obey orders would be tricky.


    It would definitely be a challenge, but Saeter intended to meet it. The price of failure wasnt eptable, and besides he had never aplished anything like it before. No one had, and that was what made it interesting.


    Saeter reached his campsite and looked down at cknail. The little green goblin was still lying there without moving, but his chest was definitely rising and falling as he breathed. The wind had blown his nket off so Saeter got a good look at him.


    As he had noticed before two tiny horns were starting to grow from cknails skull, and the recent weight he had put on was disappearing as the goblin consumed it to feed his growth. He already seemed noticeably taller to Saeters eyes, and Saeter knew he would be growing quite a bit more over the next few days.


    Saeter sighed in exasperation. cknail was certainly causing him a lot of trouble. Having a hobgoblin around was going to piss quite a few people off. The goblin was supposed to make his life easier, not harder. He was definitely going to have to work cknail even harder than normal, once he woke up, to make up for it.


    Alright then, cknail you stupid little beast, if youre going to be of any use to me at allter I cant just leave you here outside in the weather, Saeter mumbled as he reached down and gently picked the goblin up.


    He then carried him into his tent where it would be warmer and cknail could sleep undisturbed until Saeter could arrange some better shelter of his own.

 Written in Blood 1

    Written in Blood 1


    cknail was just hanging around. Also, since he had nothing better to do he was reexamining some of the choices he had made recently.


    He wasnt quite sure why things had gone the way they had, but it didnt help that he was very new at all this. He was new at reexamining things that is. Although, this was also the first time he had been hung from a tree by his ankle.


    The hobgoblin jerked around again as he tried to pull himself up and reach the rope noose around his ankle so he could cut it with his ws. Unfortunately, he couldnt muster the strength and all his efforts did was send him swaying back and forth through the air. He also started to get more than a little nauseous.


    With a hiss of frustration cknail gave up and decided to wait for Saeter toe back out of his tent. The upside down forest spun and swayed around him as he waited. He should have known better than to try and go against his master.


    cknail had thought for sure that he hade up with a good way to show Saeter that he couldnt just boss him around. Apparently, he had been wrong.


    It had all started several days ago. cknail had awoken to find himself in a strange lean-to out in the middle of the woods. This had confused him because he was fairly sure he had gone to sleep in apletely different ce. Where were all the human bandits?


    Still sleepy but somewhat rmed he had gotten up and looked around. To his relief he had spotted the familiar outline of Saeters tent off to one side, and another tent alongside it.


    cknail had quicklye to the conclusion that the fact that his masters tent was nearby meant that he hadnt been abandoned. It must have been Saeter that had brought him here while he slept.


    Curious as to why he had been moved he decided to find his master and ask. So he had tried walking over to the tents, only to immediately trip over his own feet, and find out what the nearby dirt tasted like. Bleh!


    It was then he had looked down and discovered that his body had changed.


    At first he had thought that he had simply lost a lot of weight and gotten skinnier, but he soon realized that all his limbs were actually longer. That had confused him quite a bit.


    Then he had heard a snigger ofughter and looked over to see one of the scouts from the camp grinning at him from a few feet away. He had growled at the man in annoyance. Who was he tough at cknail?


    Hey Saeter, your hobgoblins finally awake and hes grumpy as a hungry bear, the man named Varhs had yelled as he had measured cknail with his gaze. He hadnt seemed impressed.


    His master had then arrived and immediately ordered cknail to do all his usual chores. For some reason this had made cknail angry and resentful, but he had stifled his emotions and done as he was told.


    He was rewarded with arge b of meat that he had hungrily scoffed down before getting back to work. Saeter should have given him more though.


    Why I bigger? he had asked Saeter as he gutted and skinned a rabbit. His new longer and more dexterous fingers had made the work easier and faster.


    Youve turned into a hobgoblin. It happens to some goblins. They get taller and meaner, his master had exined in his usual gruff voice.


    cknail had remembered his master mentioning hobgoblins before in the past, so he had grudgingly epted that exnation. He still suspected Saeter was withholding information from him though.


    His head had felt weirdly light, and part of it had been whispering that he couldnt trust his master. cknails thoughts had strayed while he worked. Why should everyone keep telling him what to do? He had gotten smarter andrger so why shouldnt he be in charge?


    Saeter had then reached over to hand the hobgoblin a rabbit hide, but cknail had felt a stab of unease at the mans closeness and pulled away.


    Saeter had frowned at the hobgoblins reaction and scrutinized him for a second before tossing him the pelt and turning away. cknail had taken this as more evidence that his master was lying to him or tricking him somehow.


    Saeter had kept cknail busy all that day doing chores, but he had quickly figured out that they were mostly make-work. This really annoyed the hobgoblin. Why was his master doing this to him? Didnt he deserve better? Why should Saeter boss him around anyway?


    He had started to let a bit of hostility slip into his gaze as his eyes followed Saeter around. Saeter had noticed and met the gaze but hadnt said anything, instead he had simply beaten cknail repetitively with a stick.


    Of course, Saeter had imed it was some sort of training but cknail hadnt really believed him. After the chores were done to Saeters satisfaction he had thrown cknail a wooden sword, and begun to teach him swordsmanship.


    This is how every hot blooded youngster learns respect and discipline. It worked on me so it should work on you. Now I know you dont like hitting people but from now on youre going to have to, he had told cknail.


    He had then shown the hobgoblin how to hold the mock weapon, while the other man Varhs had silently watched them. cknail had noticed that Varhs had a real sword at his side, not a mock de. It had struck him as very suspicious, but he was soon distracted from his musings.


    The next part of sword training had involved Saeter yelling at cknail about how he was doing everything wrong, and the hobgoblin being smacked with the wooden de over and over again.


    This had infuriated cknail, and really hurt. Uncontroble rage had poured out from some new depth within him, and cknail had hissed and snarled as he tried to block the blows. His mouth had watered at the thought of biting into Saeters flesh, but even with a sword of his own he couldnt defend himself against Saeters skillful attacks and longer reach.


    At first he had simply tried to defend, but Saeter had yelled and hit him over and over again until cknail had grown so angry he had lost all control. He had forgotten his usual rule against harming humans and swung out at Saeters head. Saeter had given him permission anyway.


    When Saeter had easily dodged that blow cknail hadunched himself at Saeter, dropped his wooden practice sword, and reached out to tear the man apart with his bare ws. That had been a very bad idea.


    As cknail sprung towards him Saeter had slipped to the side, and brought his blunt de down in a two handed swing against cknails head. The resulting blow had hurt a lot, stunned the hobgoblin, and given him his second taste of dirt that day. It hadnt tasted very good.


    Then Saeter had yelled at cknail until he got to his feet and continued. He hadnt even been angry about being attacked, but he was angry about how bad the attack had been.


    Eventually a very tired and sore cknail had simply copsed from exhaustion, after what seemed like hours of futile attack attempts. Only then had Saeter called it a day.


    Saeter had thrown the prone hobgoblin his dinner and instructed him to go to bed, and cknail had. He had been too tired to even think of arguing.


    The next few days had been more of the same, chores in the morning and beatings at night. cknail had begun to grow frustrated and a hatred of Saeter had developed deep within him. His head had felt so strange and weird. Strange new thoughts kept popping up. He had been sure everything would feel better when he was in charge though.


    As soon as they started sparring again cknail had tried to hit his master, but could never quite manage it. So he had grown even more spiteful and hostile. Hed begun to growl and hiss every time he saw Saeter, or the other man Varhs.


    They were both obviously out to get him, and prevent him from taking his rightful ce as the alpha. They werent even hobgoblins!


    Then that morning he had awoken early, and in fit of anger he had snuck up on the tent where his master was sleeping. He hadnt known what he was going to do when he got there, only that it would involve sweet revenge. Maybe he would have stolen some things, or broken Saeters stuff. He never had a chance to find out.


    It had been a trap.


    As he had crept silently along the path to Saeters tent from his sleeping ce something had snagged the hobgoblins foot and violently flung him into the air.


    After a surprised shriek, he had quickly realized that he had stepped in something like a giant rabbit trap that had been hidden under some leaves. He had flushed in embarrassment at the thought of being as stupid as a rabbit.


    The noise caused by a startled hobgoblin being pulled into the air by a small unfurling tree had caused Saeter toe out to investigate. He had walked out of his tent, seen cknail, grunted, and then gone back inside to sleep. cknail had been too ashamed to say anything, so he had just hung there quietly for a few hours.


    At least it had given him a lot of time to think. His anger had long since faded away. Maybe it was just because hanging upside down made his head feel weird in apletely different way, but looking back he really didnt understand what he had been thinking.


    Over the past few days he had not been acting like himself at all.


    Even now some part of cknail wanted to wrap his hands around Saeters neck and choke him for tricking him like this. He would never have thought of doing that before. Was he so angry all the time because he was a hobgoblin now? Could he somehow go back to how he had been before?


    Wait a second why was he asking himself all these weird questions? He had never done that before. In fact he was still doing it; he was thinking about everything, even other things he was thinking about. What if he couldnt stop! That would be horrible. All right, stop thinking right now!


    was it working?


    Luckily for cknail his train of thought was interrupted as Saeter emerged from his tent again. He then looked up at the hobgoblin expectantly.


    Um, sorry master, cknail said as he grinned nervously.


    He thought his master looked skeptical of his apology.


    For what? Saeter asked. cknail thought about it for a minute as he hung there.


    Being angry, trying to hit master, and being sneaky. I been very bad, cknail answered with regret.


    Youre supposed to hit me during sword practice, but only during sword practice. As for being angry, can you tell me why you were acting like that? Saeter asked him.


    I angry because I grow? You say so earlier, he replied uncertainly.


    And how do I know you will stop? Saeter asked.


    cknail took another few minutes to consider the question. It was kind of a tricky question, but at least all the thinking his mind kept doingtely was proving useful.


    because you teach me how? cknail replied tentatively. His response caused a big grin to spread across Saeters face.


    Thats right. So lets get back to sword practice. There is nothing like it for teaching the undisciplined control, Saeter exined as he moved over to cut the hobgoblin down.


    cknail groaned. Hanging upside down from a tree hadnt been all that bad, maybe he should have kept his mouth shut.


    Now that he was thinking somewhat straight, the first thing the new hobgoblin did when he got down was to look himself over in a nearby bucket of water. Two short ck horns rose from his bald head. His previous short and somewhat pudgy body had been stretched out until he was almost as tall as a human.


    He was skinnier than any human though but his wiry green body was still muscled. The features of his face that used to be round, like his nose and chin, had be sharper. He looked sleeker, more like a predator.


    He smiled andrger teeth were revealed in the watery reflection before him. His thin tongue was also noticeably longer, and could be extended quite far out from his mouth.


    The routine they had established earlier with chores in the morning and sword practice in the evening continued, only this time cknail was aware of his new anger and tried to suppress it. He had very limited sess.


    No, control your rage. Dont overextend. It leaves you open, Saeter yelled sternly as his wooden de slid by cknails own and impacted painfully against the hobgoblins shoulder.


    cknail hissed angrily but tried to do as his mastermanded. Control was the key, he thought to himself. I shouldnt do what the anger tells me. He barely managed to block one of Seaters blows as he fought to remember to keep his stance solid and light.


    Good, now attack, Seater yelled. At hismand cknails de swung out at Saeter but the human easily parried it.


    cknail had to fight his instinct to never attack humans, and his new hostile instincts that wanted him to leap forward and w out Saeters eyes. This mental sh made his attacks slow.


    No, too much hesitation. Keep attacking, Saeter told him. cknail obeyed andunched a rapid series of attacks, none of which hit. Saeter countered and his wooden de smacked cknail across the head.


    The hobgoblin felt himself grimace as rage built up inside of him. He wanted to leap at Saeter, to strike out at him, to feel his ws rend Saeters pinky flesh. He didnt do it though.


    He had lost control and given into rage a few times, and Saeter had simply smacked cknail down when his wild attack inevitably left him open.


    No, the only way for him to strike Saeter was to control his rage and learn to use the sword. Wait, so the only way to hit his master was to not want to hit him? Ugh, now he had a headache.


    Rx, keep loose and flow through the forms while keeping proper technique, Saeter exined to cknail for about the hundredth time over the past few days. cknail hissed angrily again but tried to as he was told. He desperately wanted to give in and go wild with rage.


    Days passed this way. Varhs began to take over the sword lessons when Saeter grew too tired. Slowly cknail progressed and began to learn. Then one morning cknail woke up to find Saeter dissembling his tent.


    Its time to head back. Youre still a crappy swordsman, but I cant stay out here and train you forever. Youve managed to learn some discipline though and hopefully that will be enough to keep you out of trouble. Just remember what happens if you screw up, Saeter told cknail.


    I get hung from tree? cknail guessed.


    No, Herad will kill you, Saeter replied.


    Oh... cknail eximed.


    He had almost forgotten about her. Briefly he mentallypared her fight against the ghouls with his own sessions with Saeter.


    The anger that taken root deep within cknail as his new hobgoblin instincts pushed him to fight and dominate everyone around him suddenly shriveled up and died. He was not going to try and fight Herad. Nope, that was never going to happen.


    Control was his new best friend. Once again cknail felt gratitude towards his wise master for working him so hard. Without his lessons he could easily imagine himself losing control, only to be mercilessly killed by Herad secondster.


    Come here cknail, I have a sort of graduation gift for you, Saeter told him.


    Whats a graduation? he asked his master. He liked the gift part though.


    Its what happens when you learn something or pass a test. This one is for learning basic swordsmanship and control. Every time you feel angry remember this training. Rage will only lead to self-destruction, Saeter exined.


    Yes, master, cknail replied gratefully.


    Saeter then handed cknail a backpack. Compelled by curiosity the hobgoblin opened the pack and pulled the contents out. It was several sets of clothes and a long hooded cloak.


    Luckily, when we were leaving camp there were a whole bunch of clothesying around that no one needed anymore. I picked some of the smaller ones out for you. Theres also some other stuff like a flint and steel in there to, Saeter exined.


    Thank you master, cknail told him with real gratitude. For some reason being given human clothes made him happy.


    Put some on, we cant have you returning to camp dressed like a savage, Saeter replied.


    cknail immediately chose a rough pair of ck pants and a brown shirt and pulled them on, after taking off his own self made shorts. They had been getting kind of tight recently anyway.


    Much better, you dont look like a feral hobgoblin that just crawled out of the woods anymore, cknails master said with a self satisfied smile.


    Ya, I dont know what he looks like now, Varhs added. cknail resisted the urge to w the mans eyes out.


    and heres the real prize. Just remember your training, or Ill kill you myself, Saeter told cknail as he pulled out a simple sheathed short sword and presented it hilt first to cknail.


    Oddly enough, thats almost exactly what my drill instructor told me the day I graduated from basic, Varhs mused quietly to himself off to the side.


    cknail took the de and purred in pleasure. Now he had a sword all of his own. His master Saeter trusted him with one, and had even shown him how to use it.


    cknail unsheathed the de and smiled at its shiny and ever so sharp edges. He ran his finger along the de so he could feel it cut into his skin. As a tiny drop of blood formed on his finger and cknail chuckled gleefully.


    Varhs was suddenly looking like he doubted this was a good idea. His eyes were slightly wide with concern, as if he expected cknail to go on a killing spree any second now. The hobgoblin decided to disappoint him.


    He felt humbled by his masters loyalty and promised himself he would return it. He would practice every day so that he would never give into his anger and disappoint his master.


    Thank you, master. cknail your loyal servant, he said as he knelt and lowered his eyes submissively.


    Get up cknail, you earned that de. Now lets get back to camp. Its been over a week, and everyone probably thinks were dead, Saeter told him.


    With a nod of eptance cknail attached his new sword and sheathe to his waist. That done he put on the dark grey cloak, and looked back to admire himself in it.


    It reminded him of Saeter and Herads cloaks, and made him feel important. He liked it. He flipped the hood up and over his face.


    Ugh, you can hardly tell hes a hobgoblin. Thats more than a little scary, Varhsmented uneasily.


    From within the depths of his cloak cknail smiled gleefully, and his long naked tongue flicked out to taste the cool air. A whole new worldy on the path before him, if he simply had the will and discipline to walk it.


    [th_113_.gif] Help a bro out, and ratethis story.

 Written in Blood 2

    Written in Blood 2


    It only took them a few hours to get back to camp. There had been no real reason for Saeter to travel further than that. He had simply wanted some space and istion while he trained cknail, so that no one got idently murdered.


    Well, Im d this little adventure is over with, Varhs told Saeter as they approached the camp.


    Consider your debt paid, Saeter replied as he walked.


    Oh, I do. Im just d this crazy hobgoblin idea of yours hasnt gotten us killed, yet, Varhs said.


    You volunteered, Saeter reminded the other man.


    I wasnt going to let you wander off into the deep green alone for days on end, with nopany but a hobgoblin. Besides, I was curious to see if you could pull it off, Varhs told him.


    I did, Saeter answered gruffly.


    probably, Varhs added with a backward nce at cknail.


    The hobgoblin was walking along behind them with his hood still up. He liked how the hood concealed him, even if it was a little hot. The way it hid his form was an advantage he could use. He had been thinking a lot about how to act and what to do when he got back to the rest of the tribe.


    cknail had been following the conversation between Saeter and Varhs with great interest. Over the past few days he had noticed that it was much easier for him to follow the humannguage. He had learned quite a bit simply from listening to Varhs and Saeter speak, but he wanted to learn even more. He looked up and returned Varhs gaze.


    I thank-ss you for the training. I owe you-ss a debt, cknail told him in his hiss like voice.


    Um sure, no problem, Varhs replied as he blinked in surprise.


    cknail smiled at Varhs response. He nned on trying to fit in, so he could eventually take on a higher position within the tribe. cknail had absolutely no intention of staying at the bottom of the hierarchy anymore.


    Just because he couldnt climb it by challenging the other members of the tribe didnt mean he couldnt do it at all. First, he would try making alliances, and if that didnt work he would find another way. Obstacles could be removed.


    As they walked they came across a sentry, who looked up but made noment as they passed. He apparently saw nothing odd about the two scouts returning to camp with another cloaked person in tow.


    Varhs looked like he really wanted to say something to the man, but stopped himself. cknail just smirked to himself in amusement. He could have walked right up to that sentry and bitten him before the man even realized anything was odd.


    As they entered the camp proper Varhs said a brief goodbye, and they split up to go to their respective camp sites. The camp itself had changed a fair bit since cknail had seen itst. The timbers that had been lying around before had now been put to use. Lean-tos were steadily being reced by crude log buildings.


    Saeter and cknail passed quite a few people on their way through the camp. Few of camps residents gave the pair a second nce. In fact, a lot of them were unfamiliar to cknail.


    Herad must have really been pushing the recruitment while we were away, Saetermented as he observed the people around them.


    Yes, I see and smell-ss many strangers, cknail said in response. He had decided to work on his human by talking as much as possible.


    What in all the hells? Someone is camping in our spot! Saeter suddenly eximed angrily.


    cknail looked up to see that his master was right. Where Saeters tent used to stand, and some of their gear still did, another group of humans had set up their own stuff. cknails eyes narrowed as he eyed the humans that had entered his territory. That was a challenge.


    There were three of them, one woman and two men. They were lounging around and seemed to be rxing. cknail thought they looked rather young for humans. They didnt have a tent but they had some sleeping rolls set up under a crude shelter made of branches and a tarp. Saeter stomped over to them, and cknail followed.


    This is my spot, and thats my stuff, he barked at them.


    The two men got up and turned towards Saeter as he spoke, but the woman remained where she was lying against some bags. She just looked up and frowned at Saeter and cknail before apparently disregarding them and turning away.


    Weve been here for days, one of the men told Saeter dismissively.


    Ive been away on a mission for Herad, boy, Saeter replied with hostility in in his voice and manner. cknail felt his own anger rise and his heartbeat pick up in response to his masters tone of voice.


    She didnt say nothing when we set up here the young man replied with a shrug.


    Saeter frowned and his hand moved closer to his dagger. The one young man noticed and his expression became more belligerent. The other man smelled nervous to cknail though, like stale sweat.


    Come on Danivh, we just got here. We dont need to turn this into a fight. Remember Herads rules! he whispered to hispanion.


    cknailsrge ears heard him though, and he remembered Herads rules. One of them was not fighting without her permission. That would make this tricky.


    Its not our problem if he starts something. Besides we need to show everyone here that they cant boss us around just because were new. Especially, when its just an old man and some cloaked pipsqueak, the first man replied without taking his eyes from Saeter.


    Im trying to nap here boys, cant you just get these guys to leave? the girl asked as she sat up.


    Just a second, Danivh replied as he tried to stare down Saeter. His gaze shifted to cknail as the hobgoblin moved forward and out from behind Saeter. Their eyes met for a single moment, and something stirred in cknail. He wanted to put this man in his ce.


    Without warning cknail growled, and pounced forward as instinct took over. His target froze in shock at what he saw under the hobgoblins hood, and before he could recover cknail had closed the distance between them. The hobgoblin reached out and grabbed his opponents knife hand, with enough force that his ws pierced the mans skin and drew blood.


    A quick kick to the back of his leg sent the man to his knees, and before he could regain his bnce cknail was behind him with a firm grasp on his neck.


    As the man struggled, cknail leaned down and smiled at him. Then he opened his mouth wide and growled menacingly. Everyone froze.


    Danivh was white as snow and his eyes were wide with terror as the hobgoblins toothy maw opened mere inches from his face. cknail smelled the scent of human urine fill the air.


    Our spot, leave, he growled slowly as he pushed Danivh away. His rage burned like fire within him, but cknail held it in check.


    What the fuck!? the woman screeched as cknails inhuman visage was revealed.


    As the man called Danivh scrambled across the ground away from him cknail turned towards her and leered.


    With a scream of terror the woman fled, and Danivh was right behind her. The third member of their group was long gone by this point. He had run and abandoned his friends the second cknail had attacked.


    cknail chuckled to himself as he watched the humans flee. Their cowardice reminded him of goblins. His smile grew even wider as the humans reached the edge of the clearing, and kept going into the forest. That was really funny. They had to be very stupid to think they were safer out in woods.


    Surprise really was a powerful weapon. It hadnt even been a fight really; he had barely touched even one of them. No one had gotten hurt, much, so no one couldin to Herad.


    The dozens of bandits and ruffians who were nearby had all stopped, and were staring at either the fleeing humans or cknail. Most of them were too far away to get a good look at cknail, and simply looked confused by what had happened.


    Even Saeter was looking at cknail with a startled expression, but he quickly recovered.


    Uh, good job cknail, he told the hobgoblin hesitantly. Just remember to keep yourself under control, and dont eat anyone,


    Yes, master, the hobgoblin replied happily.


    Saeter then noticed all the people staring at them, dismissed them, and walked over to where his stuff was stored. Once there he began to grumble and go through it to make sure everything was still there.


    cknail could hear everyone around him muttering, but when all he did was stand there and wait for his master most the people went back to their own business. As he was waiting his ears twitched as he picked up the sound of someone approaching.


    Ah Saeter , I knew you must havee back. The screams and people madly dashing about everywhere where rather conclusive signs, announced a voice cknail recognized as Geralhds.


    I saw those fresh faced recruits fleeing into the woods and I thought to myself, what could be so horrible that someone would run towards the forest? And thats when it hit me, Saeter must be back! Geralhd exined as he approached.


    Saeter looked up and scowled at him. cknail watched Geralhd approach from where he was standing of to the side.


    What do you want? Saeter asked the other man. Geralhd smiled before replying.


    Why wouldnt Ie over and make sure one of my closest friends in the entire band made it back all right after such a long absence. So, where is cknail anyway? Gehd asked as he looked around.


    Saeter rolled his eyes disdainfully and pointed towards the hobgoblin before turning back to sorting out all his stuff. cknail flipped his hood down to reveal his thin green face and the two small horns that rose from his skull.


    Yes-ss Im here. Hello, Geralhd, cknail told a now thoroughly shocked looking Geralhd. The mans smile was crooked as he stared dumbly at cknail.


    About time something shut that boy up, Saeter mumbled from where he was working.


    By the gods it is you! Geralhd blurted out.


    Yes, Im cknail, cknail told him again. Geralhd had never been the smartest human around, but cknail doubted even he could mistake the hobgoblin for anyone else in camp.


    Youre um, so much taller! Geralhd remarked.


    Yes, cknail replied dryly. How long was Geralhd going to keep stating the obvious? He was beginning to question the mans value as a possible ally.


    Its just amazing how much youve changed in such a short time, Geralhd eximed as he approached the hobgoblin curiously.


    cknail didnt know how to respond to that, so he just shrugged casually. Looking back it was obvious the man was right. cknail felt like an entirely different person than he had been mere weeks ago. It was very strange, and somewhat ufortable to think about. So he didnt.


    Geralhd walked up and began peering closely at the hobgoblin. cknail had to resist the urge to growl and push him away. The human was ufortably close. Only cknails familiarity with the thin man prevented him from at least backing away. Was there something he should say now?


    Huh, Ill have to start bringing you bigger treats. I hope you still like jerky, Gehd told the hobgoblin as he handed him a piece of meat. There was a somewhat embarrassed look on his face.


    This time cknails answering smile wasnt forced.


    Yes, I-ss do, he answered before taking the meat and stuffing it in his mouth. His almost inexhaustible hunger was one of the few things that hadnt changed since his metamorphosis. He had been eating quite a bit since hed awoken as a hobgoblin, but he still was never quite satisfied.


    Thank you my friend Geralhd, he told the man after hed chewed the morsel down to nothing.


    Im d to see that youre still mostly the same on the inside. Your impressive new grasp of Elorian excluded of course. I knew Red Dog was being an idiot when he told everyone you would turn into some sort of ravenous beast when you changed. Im d youre back, my not so little friend, Geralhd remarked happily.


    cknail heard a groan full of disbelief and annoyance from where Saeter was working as Geralhd finished speaking. The hobgoblin pretended he hadnt heard anything though and nodded happily at Geralhd. Thats when he noticed the sword at Gerahlds hip.


    He had seen the sword there before, of course, but never really noticed it before now. An idea then popped into the hobgoblins head. He raised a green wed hand and pointed to the de.


    Want to practice? he asked the man.


    At first Geralhd seemed confused by what cknail had said but then he followed cknails gaze and then noticed the sword at the hobgoblins own hip.


    Saeters been teaching you swordsmanship? he asked in surprise.


    cknail was fairly sure that Geralhd had meant it as a statement, and not a question. Sometimes he had trouble figuring that out.


    Yes, for discipline, cknail replied.


    Um, Id like to but Geralhd hesitantly answered.


    Let me stop you there, Saeter interjected, as he got up and walked over. We should go report to Herad, but dont worry cknail. Ill get Vorscha to practice with youter. She loves that kind of thing.


    cknail felt his heart sink as Saeter spoke. He hade to like practicing with swords, and he suspected sparring with Geralhd wouldnt be as one sided as he was used to. Geralhd however threw Saeter a grateful smile. He apparently hadnt been looking forward to sparring with a hobgoblin.


    Ill see you two around, he told them before he walked off.


    Lets go, Saeter said when Geralhd was gone.


    He immediately started walking over to the farmhouse where Herad had set up camp. cknail pulled his hood back up and followed him, but he had to drag himself as reluctance made his feet feel heavy. Sparring with Geralhd, or even Vorscha, sounded like a lot more fun than going to see Herad.


    cknail wasnt looking forward to seeing Herad again at all. He half believed she would kill him on the spot, for being a threat to her. Given a choice he would have avoided the bloodthirsty chieftain for as long as possible.


    Before they reached the old home Saeter unexpectedly veered off track. cknail looked over towards where his master was heading and saw Herad taking a walk through the camp. He froze in fright for a second, but then forced himself to head her way.


    At first it didnt seem like Herad saw them, but then she turned their way. cknail felt himself grow a little sweatier under his cloak. He wanted to pull the hood down even more but didnt want to draw attention to himself that way either.


    As they got closer cknail was struck by how much shorter Herad seemed now that he was a hobgoblin. In fact she wasnt reallyrger than him. That seemed very weird to him, but he wasnt stupid enough to think that made her weak though. Hed seen one veryrge human make that mistake.


    Ah Saeter, I had heard you were b Herad started to say before stopping, and staring at the cloaked cknail. At first she looked suspicious, but then she began to snarl in anger.


    Please tell me a hobgoblin, in a hood, didnt walk right by my sentries. Heads are going to roll if its been strolling freely through my camp for thest few hours, in a hood, and no one thought to inform me or even knew, she hissed at them.


    Both Saeter and cknail wentpletely still. Very slowly and carefully cknail slouched to make himself a smaller target and less threatening. Maybe if he was lucky enough to survive her first blow he could y dead and then find a hole to hide in.


    Im informing you right now, Saeter responded quickly but calmly. We briefly stopped to unpack and then went straight to look for you,


    cknail could smell his nervousness though. He was simply very good at hiding it.


    Herad eyed them both hostilely but seemed to calm down a little, but only a little. She raised a finger on her gloved hand at cknail, and he had to fight the urge to join the bandits he had chased off earlier and make a break for the woods.


    Lose the hood, she told him, with an edge to her voice sharp enough to draw blood.


    The hobgoblin pulled his hood down as quickly as he could. He lowered his eyes submissively and stared at her boots. Herad simply observed him silently for a few seconds.


    Are you a hobgoblin or an oversized lizard? Look at me, she ordered him.


    Reluctantly cknail raised his head and met her eyes. They were dark and hostile. Did she want to fight him? Hopefully she just wanted to make him submit. Submitting would be fine with him. In fact, he would do it right now.


    Your servant cknail greets you, chieftain, he told her. He then gave her his best impression of a friendly human smile. It wasnt a very good impression, but it did give her a nice view of his teeth.


    Herad looked at him nkly for a second, and then chuckled. Both Seater and cknail were taken aback.


    This is what Red Dog was so afraid of? Its just a slightly bigger goblin, still small and cowardly, sheughed coldly.


    Saeter turned and frowned at cknail, and then looked back at Herad. cknails pride was somewhat hurt by Herads remark.


    Hes only been a hob for a few days. Hell grow some more, and hes not cowardly. Hes just perceptive, and has a beasts instincts. Hobgoblins are clever and cknail knows an opponent he cant beat when he sees one, so hes acting ordingly, Saeter exined defensively.


    Herad threw him a doubtful look. cknail usually liked beingplimented, but now he really wished Saeter would stop talking.


    Just ask around if you dont believe me. He took down one of your new recruits before the fool and his two friends even knew what was happening. They were so scared they hightailed it off into the woods, screaming all the way. Youre going to have to send scouts out to find them if you want them back, he added.


    So that was your pet was it? I was just about to investigate that disturbance, she mused.


    He seems weak to you because thats what he wants you to think. Hes being submissive towards a strong pack leader. Dont underestimate hobgoblins. Hood or no hood, a few sentries wouldnt stop cknail from slipping into camp and slitting some throatse nightfall, Saeter continued to exin.


    But Im-ss your servant and friend and wont ever cut-ss your band, cknail interjected nervously as he gave Herad another smile. What was his master trying to do?


    If its so clever why are you so sure you have it under control? Herad asked Saeter, while ignoring cknail.


    Hes too smart to pick fights he cant win. I just had to train him to control himself and make sure he knew who the boss was, Saeter replied with a shrug.


    That would be me, but now Im curious. How exactly did the great ranger Saeter manage to be the first to train a hobgoblin? she asked him with a smirk.


    Sword drills and sparring are the best thing for teaching discipline, Saeter replied deadpan.


    Herad gave Saeter a look. It clearly indicated he was either an idiot or insane, possibly both. Then she burst outughing. cknail actually flinched away from her at the unexpected outburst but Saeter took it in stride.


    By the gods, you amuse me sometimes Saeter! No wonder no one has done it before. Who would be stupid or mad enough to teach a hobgoblin how to use a sword? Its brilliant in its pure bloody insanity! she cackled.


    Herughter faded after awhile, and she actually wiped a tear from her eye.


    I cant wait to see the look on Red Dogs face when he learns about this. You just keep teaching your hobgoblin how to kill people, Saeter. I think Im going to enjoy having him around. Oh, and when hes gotten proficient enough I want you to send him my way for a few rounds. That ought to be interesting, Herad told Saeter, as amusement oozed from her voice.


    Without waiting for an answer the bandit leader started walking away from them, still chuckling to herself. Her ck cloak trailed behind her as she went.


    When she was gone cknail turned to his master, and couldnt help but give him a dirty look. Why had he told Herad all that? ckanil could think of nothing he would like to do less than fight Herad.


    Dont give me that look you jumped up goblin, Saeter told him. Bah, you were acting all pathetic back there. It was shameful. You should be thanking me; now she likes you!


    That didnt make cknail feel any better. He had much preferred his own n. cknail felt it would have involved a much smaller chance of dying. He had a feeling that when he fought Herad that they wouldnt be using wooden des.

 Written in Blood 3

    Written in Blood 3


    The man known as Ferret strolled off into the woods towards the camptrines. Therge rough shaven bandit had been lounging around the bandit camp for awhile, but now natures call had lured him out into the forest.


    From where he was sitting and watching from another corner of the camp cknail smiled. It was not a friendly smile, but one meant to disy both teeth and menace. After a quick look around to make sure no one was paying attention, he slowly got up and slipped off into the trees.


    Most of the bandits in the camp simply avoided the hobgoblin, several were more hostile though. Among the most vocal about their distrust of cknail was Ferret.


    Ferret had made his hatred for cknail in at every opportunity. He spent a great deal of time trying to turn the other humans against the hobgoblin, and had even threatened to kill the hobgoblin. Worse, he had threatened Saeter. That would have to stop. Besides, cknail owed the man one for when he had threatened him the first day his master had freed him.


    cknail stalked through the woods silently. He had removed the boots Saeter had given him. He found it easier to move undetected without them. He had also removed his cloak; his green skin was actually harder to see in the forest, and the cloak tended to get caught on things.


    Nearly invisible the hobgoblin circled the camp towards thetrines and his prey. He slipped noiselessly between the trees and bushes. Anticipation for the hunt gleamed in his eyes.


    Soon the cracking of breaking twigs and the whooshing sound of human breath reached his ears. With his prey located he stopped to observe and n for a moment from behind a nearby tree.


    Ferrets back was to the goblin and his pants were down around his ankles. He was busy emptying his dder. cknail took advantage of his distraction and stalked forward towards him. The sound of bird calls and Ferrets own noise masked cknails quiet approach.


    Ferret continued to urinate unaware as cknail closed the distance between them. When he stood directly behind his target cknail drew his dagger, but then the hobgoblin hesitated.


    He had never actually assaulted a human before without his rage driving him. Part of him doubted he could pull it off. Ferret was not a small man. However, another part of cknail urged him forward. He had seen humans fight and die many times now. A good de could end them easily enough, and Ferret was a threat to him and his master. The hobgoblin made up his mind.


    cknail kicked the mans feet out from under him. With a startled oomph Ferret fell forward over thetrine pit. He iled as he tipped forward and desperately tried to find some way to steady himself, but before he could fall into thetrine cknail reached out and wrenched him backwards. The hobgoblins long thin fingers entwined themselves through the mans hair as he pulled the man up.


    Before the man could yell and draw attention cknail reached around and rested his de against Ferrets throat.


    The rough bandit stiffened and froze in rm as he hung unsteadily over the pit. From this close cknail could hear his heart pounding. The edge of his knife put pressure on the mans skin but didnt draw blood, yet.


    Hello-ss, Ferret, cknail whispered as he leaned in and licked the side of the mans face. The bandits skin was salty with sweat. Ferret shuddered in horror.


    What do you want? the bandit stuttered fearfully.


    Silence, yours. I have heard you try and turn the band against me. You challenge me, cknail answered.


    Youre not part of the band. Youre a stupid beast. Kill me if you want but then everyone will know you for the vicious animal you are, and then they will hunt you down, Ferret replied angrily.


    cknail let his dagger drop, and then stabbed Ferret in the leg.


    The bandit hissed in pain and flinched but cknail held him tightly. A few secondster therge man went limp and loose in the hobgoblins grip. cknail sheathed his poisoned dagger, and drew a rock from one of his pouches.


    I thank you for permission to end your life, cknail told the man he had paralyzed with spider poison taken from Saeters bags.


    Emotionlessly he then smashed the man in the head with the rock, creating a small gash that bled freely, and let the body and the rock fall into thetrine together.


    The banditnded head first, with a loud wet st. Much to cknails satisfaction his face was submerged in the collected human excrement, where the paralyzed and most likely unconscious bandit would drown.


    His choreplete cknail got up from where he was crouched beside thetrine pit, and headed back to the camp. He circled the camp instead of heading straight back to the clearing, as not to draw suspicion down on himself. Hopefully, he would be back to where he had been sitting before anyone even noticed he had left.


    He hadnt actually followed Ferret nning to kill him. He had been nning to simply scare him into submission. However, the unthinking hatred he had seen in the mans eyes had convinced him that wouldnt work. Ferret had been a danger and would have never epted cknail into the band.


    Everything had worked out though. Anyone that found the body would probably think Ferret had fallen in and hit his head, and then drowned in thetrine. With all the footprints from the heavy traffic to and from thetrine no one would notice his own prints. cknail smiled at his own cleverness. Seater would probably even approve, not that cknail was ever going to tell him.


    He emerged from the bushes at the border of the clearing and casually strolled into the bandits camp. No one even looked his way. Once he reached the pile of firewood he had been sitting on earlier he picked up his discarded cloak, and put it back on.


    That done the hobgoblin decided to head back to Saeters campsite. His master probably had tasks for him toplete. As he moved through the camp most of the human moved out of his way and threw him wary nces.


    Word had spread about who and what was under his cloak. cknail found it amusing. He didnt wear the cloak to make people less uneasy around him; he wore it because it made them more afraid. Not really knowing what he looked like was what upset them the most.


    He suspected therger and heavier humans would grow ustomed to his presence quickly if he took off his cloak and simply spent time around them. For now though he wanted to make sure they didnt disregard him. Fear would help make him equal in their eyes and secure him a higher position within the band; without the need for violence, or at least less of it.


    cknail arrived at the camp he shared with Saeter. Beside Saeters tent the hobgoblin had dug a shallow hole and built a small lean-to over it from twine, branches, and grass. It was little more than a dry ce to sleep and store a few things, but that was all he needed.


    Saeter wasnt around so cknail strolled off to find him. Eventually he found his master by the road. He was watching a group of people approach the camp. cknail walked over to join him. He was curious what was going on. He hadnt heard about anything important happening today.


    There you are cknail. Decided to stopzing about, did ya? Saeter remarked


    Yes, Master. What is this? cknail asked. His master seemed to be looking at the approaching people with disapproval.


    Thest of Herads recruits. She must have hired every petty thief and thug in Riverbend to get as many as she has. Most of them wontst long. Shes probably nning on simply letting most of them die and keeping the survivors, he exined disapprovingly.


    cknail studied the grouping down the road. He recognized Red Dog leading them. Behind him were around two dozen men and women. Only three or four seemed familiar to cknail.


    When they arrived Red Dog recognized the hobgoblin and gave him a nasty look. cknail simply smiled back at him, and made sure to sh as many teeth as possible. He knew the man wasnt a real threat to him. He would never dare go against Herads wishes.


    Red Dog chose to ignore cknail, and turned to Saeter instead.


    I see your pet hasnt managed to kill you yet, Saeter, the bandit remarked.


    Im not the one that needs to be afraid, Saeter responded cryptically.


    Did I miss anything important while I was gone? Red Dog asked the other man, as he frowned at Saeters response.


    Yes, they passed out the good manners. Too bad you werent here, Saeter replied with an amused tone.


    Very funny, old man. Why dont you use some of that matchless experience of yours and show some of these baby faced recruits around while I go talk to Herad, Red Dog told him with a roll of his eyes.


    Before Saeter could answer back though someone cknail had never seen before walked up behind Red Dog and spoke.


    Who is this old man, Dog? a young human female asked as she leaned out from behind him. The bandit lieutenant cringed slightly as she spoke.


    The girl had short cut red hair, and was about average size for a human female. She smiled excitedly as she looked Saeter over.


    Youre recruiting children now? Saeter asked Red Dog disdainfully.


    Im over seventeen winters, the girl interjected. She seemed very annoyed at being called a child. Red Dog shrugged.


    I told her to screw off the first time she showed up, but then several of the other people I tried to recruit dropped out with mysterious knife wounds. Seemed like a good idea to just let here at that point, he exined.


    The redhead smiled again as Red Dog spoke and she winked at Saeter conspiratorially. Saeter looked the girl over carefully.


    Who are you running from, girl? he asked her.


    Names Khita, and I dunno what youre talking about. Maybe, I just wanted to serve under a famous swordswoman like Herad, she replied.


    Saeter grunted and gave her a skeptical look.


    Those are gang colors youre wearing. The gangs look down on bandits, and they dont take kindly to their members quitting either. That tells me you were looking for a quick exit from Riverbend when you joined up with us. So tell me, who are you running from? he responded dryly.


    Khita narrowed her eyes and gave him Saeter a hostile stare, but then relented under the pressure of his steady gaze.


    Ugh fine, maybe I kinda stabbed someone I shouldnt have, she exined.


    Who and why? an unsurprised Saeter asked her. Her mouth twisted into a frown as she considered whether to answer him.


    My boss girl. Bitch thought she could take my stuff just because she was shacking up with vik, our leader, she exined reluctantly.


    Saeter turned to Red Dog.


    This is wonderful new recruit youve gotten for us, Saeter told him sarcastically. Red Dog shrugged again.


    Shes here now, so shes not my problem anymore. Thank the gods, he told Saeter with an amused grin. He then turned and walked back towards the other people he had recruited, leaving Khita with cknail and Saeter.


    As Red Dog left Khita seemed to notice cknail for the first time. She looked over the cloaked figure suspiciously.


    Whats with the cloaked freak, she just gonna stand there all day, she asked.


    cknail twitched as she mentioned him. She had confused his gender? Oh right, human females were smaller than males so she thought he was one of them. It was still kind of insulting for some reason. He decided he didnt like her.


    cknail took a long step towards the girl that removed most the distance between them, and straightened up to look her directly in the eye. Then he swept his cloak back behind him and flipped his hood down dramatically to fully reveal his inhuman visage.


    The girls eyes went wide and she took a step forward? cknail froze in confusion and the grin slipped from his face as he took in Khitas delighted smile.


    A hobgoblin! I cant believe this gang has a hobgoblin in it. Thats the sharpest thing Ive ever heard she squealed in delight.


    cknail took a step back away from her nervously. Her unusualck of fear unnerved him. Saeter looked more than a little taken aback as well.


    Whats your name? How many people have you killed? Do you know any secret hobgoblin stuff? she asked cknail excitedly as she took another step towards him.


    cknail growled menacingly, but that failed to deter her approach. He threw Saeter a panicked look. He didnt know how to get the female away from him without drawing a de, and he had a feeling that would be frowned upon.


    Saeter rolled his eyes but stepped forward and ced a hand on the girls shoulder.


    Stop harassing my hobgoblin, he told her.


    Who were you again? Khita asked him as she turned and pushed his hand off her shoulder.


    Im Saeter, a scout. Nowe with me, he told her.


    Why should I go anywhere with you, creep? she asked him hostilely. Seater scowled down at her.


    Because the hobgoblin goes where I go, he answered her dryly.


    Come on cknail, lets go see Vorscha, he then ordered cknail. The hobgoblin was more than eager to obey, and put some distance between him and the human female.


    Saeter walked off towards the camp, and cknail shadowed him closely. Just in case Saeter needed to put himself between him and the girl again. The girl watched them walk off for a few seconds before sighing and running after them.


    Fine, where are we going? If youre trying to get into my pants Ill bite your bits off. She told Saeter.


    cknails master grimaced in distaste and gave her an insulted look, as he continued walking. People gave them odd nces as they made their way through the bandit camp.


    Im taking you to Vorscha, Saeter exined.


    Why? Khita asked.


    Because, she loves dealing with hopeless cases like you, Saeter told her gruffly.


    Khita gave him a mean look, but continued following them.


    Does the hobgoblin talk? she suddenly asked.


    Yes, Saeter replied without looking back at her. He looked very annoyed to cknail.


    Why isnt it talking now? she then asked.


    Why dont you ask him, Saeter answered in annoyance. Then he turned to the hobgoblin.


    Answer her questions, cknail, hemanded the goblin, before muttering So shell leave me alone.


    cknail grimaced. He didnt want to have to deal with this clearly insane youngling, but he had to do as his master ordered.


    Yes, master, he responded, but frustration was clear in his voice.


    He does talk! Why are you wearing that cloak, is it magic? she asked excitedly.


    No, I like it, cknail answered her. Clearly she was both stupid and insane. cknail didnt know a lot about magic, but even he knew it was rare and had absolutely nothing to do with goblins.


    cknail sighed in relief as he spotted Vorscha and Geralhd up ahead at their campsite. They were seated right outside therge tent Vorscha shared with Geralhd.


    Vorscha, Saeter yelled. I got something here for you,


    The muscr woman stood up and looked their way. cknail thought giving the girl to Vorscha was a great idea. cknail wasnt quite sure what the warrior would do with her, but he didnt really care as long as she was kept far away from him.


    Why do you have a little girl, Saeter? Shes not yours, I hope, Vorscha asked with amused concern.


    Saeter shuddered in revulsion at the very idea of Khita being his daughter.


    No, or at least I pray to the gods she isnt. Red Dog recruited her, apparently she insisted. I thought I should introduce you two, since I know how you like to pick up strays, Saeter replied.


    Vorscha looked Khita over and frowned.


    I might have to have a talk with Red Dog about this, she remarked with more than a hint of threat in her voice.


    You do that, Saeter responded indifferently.


    As the two bandits had been talking Khita had been staring at Vorscha with an impressed expression on her face.


    Gods, youre big, she suddenly blurted out.


    And youre tiny, Vorscha responded with an amused smile.


    cknail knew Vorscha was very hard to insult. Maybe that was why Saeter wanted her to teach him.


    Im not tiny. Im over seventeen winters old. Youre just huge, the affronted Khita replied.


    Vorscha looked Saeters way.


    Well, thanks I guess Saeter. I wasnt looking for a new project right now, but Im sure as death not going to let her wander around by herself either, she told him.


    I dont need any help. I can take care of myself! Khita said as if she had been insulted.


    That might have been true in the city, but out here things are a bit different, Vorscha told her.


    Therge woman looked the girl over carefully.


    Have you ever used a sword? Vorscha then asked her.


    How could I? Theyre kinda hard to hide, and the city guards dont like people other than blue bloods having them. Besides, knives work just fine, Khita exined in a tone that suggested only idiots wouldnt already know all this already.


    cknail smirked at the girl. He knew how to use a sword sort of.


    There arent any guards out here, so everyone has swords or worse. If youre going to survive a week out here youre going to need to learn to use one too, Vorscha exined.


    That reminds me, I wanted to pass off some of cknails sword training to you as well, Saeter interjected.


    Khitas eyes suddenly gleamed with excitement.


    If the hobgoblins going to be there then Im in! she eximed.


    Vorscha threw the girl a confused look, and cknail felt a sudden spike of concern at the unexpected direction the conversation had abruptly taken.


    You want to practice sword fighting with a hobgoblin? Vorscha asked Khita in disbelief.


    Ya, hes so sharp and scary looking, she answered enthusiastically.


    And this makes you want to train with him? Vorscha asked again.


    Yep, Khita said.


    Vorscha sighed.


    Well, whatever works I guess. What do you think, Saeter? Vorscha asked him.


    cknail should be fine. It might even help with his control. Its not like theyll be sparring against each other right off the bat anyway, Saeter answered her.


    Looks like Ill be training these two together then, she remarked as she eyed cknail and the grinning Khita. This is certainly not how I expected to be spending the next little while.


    Me too, the hobgoblin muttered as he looked over at the young woman grinning at him. His life had just gotten a little moreplicated, and a lot more annoying.

 Written in Blood 4

    Written in Blood 4


    Training with Vorscha was much more enjoyable than with Saeter. It was actually kind of fun. For one thing, she tended to hit cknail a lot less. For another, he learned quite a bit faster from her. This was most likely because he took fewer blows to the head.


    Good, keep your weight mostly on your back foot, Vorscha told him as he blocked one of her thrusts. The tall chesty brte was obviously not putting all of her considerable strength behind the blow.


    Now attack, she told him.


    The hobgoblin eagerly did as she asked. He stepped forwards andunched a horizontal sh, which Vorscha easily blocked. Not that he had been expecting tond the blow.


    No, that was all wrong. You were off bnce. Stop, Vorscha said with a frown.


    Im sorry, cknail replied submissively as he lowered his de.


    Therge woman was not only clearly a much more skilled fighter than him, but as they trained her impressive muscles were very obvious as well. cknail mentally added her to the list of people he didnt want to challenge to a real fight.


    See, do it like this, Vorscha exined.


    Therge brtes de sliced through the air as she demonstrated the proper technique. cknail watched her carefully. She was startlingly graceful looking when she had a sword in hand. As she flowed between different stances and attacks her brown curls barely moved.


    cknail tried to copy her movements but his werent nearly as smooth. He certainly had a long way to go in order to be any good at swordsmanship. He would just have to cheat in the meantime.


    Good, now practice that by yourself for awhile, while I go check on Khita, Vorscha told him as she watched him practice.


    cknail continued repeatedly slicing the air as he practiced the move over and over again. Vorscha gave an approving nod and then headed over to Khita.


    She then walked over to where the young woman was practicing, or where she was supposed to be practicing anyway. Khita had stopped practicing quite a while ago, and was now just standing around.


    The young woman was red faced with exhaustion, and the sword she was supposed to be swinging hung loosely from her hand with its tip resting on the ground. She scowled at Vorscha as the older woman approached.


    Why have you stopped? Vorscha asked her in disapproval.


    Ugh, I can barely move my arms anymore. Cant I take a break, Khita whined in response.


    Ha, and you thought you didnt need anyones help. It hasnt even been half an hour yet. Real fighting takes a little more muscle than that back alley scuffling youre used to, doesnt it now? Vorscha asked her.


    Maybe Khita muttered resentfully back.


    Well, dont worry about it. Ill have you in fighting form before too long. It will just take a few hours of practice every day, she exined with a gleeful smile.


    Khita winced as is if someone had just pped her across the face. She didnt seem to like Vorschas n very much.


    I dont suppose I have a choice? she asked the other woman.


    Nope, I already got permission from Herad to make you my subordinate. You have to do what I say, or its back to the city with you, Vorscha replied with a smile. Khita groaned.


    While they were talking cknail had grown bored of repeating the same technique so he started throwing in a few other ones. He was so engrossed in the feel and sound of the de as it sliced through the air that he didnt notice Saeter and Red Dog arrive until one of them actually spoke.


    cknaile here, Saeter called out to him.


    The hobgoblin flinched in surprise at the unexpected voice. He recovered quickly though, and then walked over to his master. He dropped his blunt practice de on the way over.


    Hello-ss, master and Red Dog, cknail said as walked over to them.


    Red Dogs expression was unusually neutral. He didnt scowl at the hobgoblin. Instead he just regarded him without judgment.


    We have a job for you, hobgoblin, Red Dog told him.


    Oh, what-ss is it? cknail asked with obvious interest. Red Dog wouldnt be here talking to him unless it was something out of the ordinary.


    Theres a small group of army deserters who have set up camp to the south.


    Theyre robbing, and usually killing, travelers. Herad wants them dealt with and made an example of, Red Dog exined.


    Men hunt in our territory, so we-ss kill them, cknail summarized.


    Basically, yes. Herad does want some of them alive though, theyll make better recruits than most the riffraff weve been getting from Riverbend, the bandit replied as he threw a disdainful look at Khita.


    cknail agreed with Red Dog about the uselessness of the one named Khita, but had to suppress the urge to remind Red Dog that he was the idiot who had recruited her.


    Theyre hiding in the forest somewhere so youll be helping me track them down, Saeter added.


    I understand, master, cknail replied as he nodded.


    How many men are you taking? Vorscha asked. She had dismissed Khita and joined them as well.


    Only a little more than a dozen, and I see youve joined Saeter in this insanity, Red Dog replied with a nod in cknails direction. I mean fine, so hes useful to have around. That doesnt mean you should be training the hobgoblin to kill people better. Can no one else seriously see why thats obviously such a bad idea?


    Hes actually a very well behaved student, and learns fairly quickly, Vorscha replied with a shrug.


    That doesnt really make me feel any better, Red Dog told her dryly.


    You can whine all you want on the way there. Lets get going, Saeter interjected impatiently.


    Red Dogs lips curled up in displeasure as he responded.


    Fine, whatever. Weve got the goblin, so lets head out, Red Dog replied in exasperation. He also seemed eager to get the job over with.


    After a brief stop to grab some stuff from his shelter cknail and the bandits were on their way down the road. Just like Red Dog had told Vorscha earlier their group wasprised of about two dozen people, with an about even mix of new and experienced bandits.


    Couldnt we have used some of the horses? one of the recruitsined as she walked beside Red Dog.


    They had been walking down the old dirt road that cut through the forest for several hours now.


    There are too many of us for that. Besides, we arent going all that far, and well be moving through a lot of bush. Youll just have to get used to walking distances further than down the street, Red Dog told her disdainfully.


    and riding can be even more painful and exhausting than walking if youre not used to it, Saeter added.


    Suddenly cknail heard something from up ahead. He froze, pulled his hood down, and listened. Everyone else noticed his actions and stopped as well. Most of them had curious looks on their faces. A few had apparently managed to somehow forget he was a hobgoblin, and looked shocked at his appearance.


    Horses, many of them. From ahead. cknail announced as he stared of into the trees that concealed the twist in the road ahead.


    Shit, could be a patrol or something. Everyone off the road and out of sight, now, Red Dogmanded as he moved towards the forest that ran along the road.


    The rest of the bandits rushed after him, and they were soon all concealed along the tree line.


    I dont hear anything. How do we know the hobgoblin isnt making this up? someone asked from where he was crouched behind a bush.


    To cknails surprise it was Red Dog who answered.


    Because Im smarter than you. Now shut up, Red Dog hissed at the first speaker.


    Almost immediately after that, the sound of hooves reached the humans ears. The bandits were all crouched in bushes or leaning against trees, but as soon as they heard the noise they all turned to look out at the road.


    They didnt have to wait long for the horsemen themselves to appear. They rode into view at a quick canter. There were slightly fewer of them than there were bandits, but every one of them was mounted and armored.


    The soldiers, and thats what they had to be, were even more heavily armed and shinier than Persus guards had been. On top of their padded clothing they wore long chain-mail shirts. Their legs were protected by steel greaves, and their lower arms by banded bracers. Their heads were protected by steel helmets that hid everything but their eyes and mouths, which could be seen though arge y-shaped hole in the front of the helmets.


    cknail was d he was no longer out on the road. He could imagine the horsemen simply riding right over him and the other bandits. Most of them would have been trampled to death without much of a fight. It was just another reason why cknail really hated horses.


    Most of the riders not only had swords at their waists but held long spears as well. One of the riders out front had arge blue piece of cloth tied to the end of his spear. It waved and snapped loudly in the wind behind him as he rode, showing shes of a golden stags head insignia.


    As cknail watched the soldiers pass he had to admit that they looked dangerous. The humans in his tribe never looked quite so impressive. When the riders were out of sight down the road Red Dog spoke.


    Thats Lord Strachans banner. What are that many of his armsmen doing out here? Hisnd is further south, and he cant have a lot of men to throw around these days he mused aloud.


    Could be anything. I dont know about you, but Ive been out of touch with noble politicstely, Saeter answered.


    Red Dog grunted in agreement, before ordering everyone back onto the road. Then they were on their way again.


    As the hours went by many of the bandits began to tire out, including cknail. The hobgoblin had never walked so far before. His feet really ached, and his boots were rubbing his skin raw. He had tried removing the boots but Saeter had stopped him, and told him that it would only make things worse. cknail wasnt sure if he believed his master, but did as he was told.


    Eventually, Red Dog stopped the party with an upraised hand. cknail looked around and listened carefully, but he didnt detect anything out of the ordinary. It just seemed like any other spot on the forest enclosed road to him.


    Well stop here for the night, and start tracking our targets in the morning. Were too close to them to be using the road anymore. If they have the sense the gods gave goblins than theyll have someone watching the road, Red Dog exined.


    cknail gave Red Dog an annoyed re at the obviously intentional insult, but most the other members of the group just seemed d to be able to finally stop walking. cknail empathized with them, he couldnt wait to get off his feet either.


    The bandits split up for a few minutes to find a good ce to set up for the night. Soon a spot was chosen. It was a small cluster of gray bouldersrge enough to shield them from sight and to be somewhat defensible.


    There were nine stones and each of them was taller than a human. Together they were arranged in a loose circle. No trees grew within a few dozen feet of the stones, and the ground around them was hard with only a sparse covering of nts. cknail thought it was beautiful.


    The hobgoblin walked up and ran his hand along the surface of the closest stone. It was smooth to the touch and warmer than he thought it would be. The sun must have heated it.


    From this close cknail could almost make out faded patterns on the rocks, like someone had carved pictures into them once upon a time. However, if the stones had once born images or words of some sort the wind and rain had long since worn them away.


    Saeter noticed cknail examining the stones, and walked up behind him.


    These stone were put here. Theyre too old for men, and theyre not the Flore Kuravas style. They dont work stone. That means this circle was put here by goblins. Maybe, even ancestors of yours, Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    cknail removed his hand from the stone. The idea that this special ce had been made by goblins felt right. The stones, and the way they were arranged, spoke to him. It had meaning, even if cknail couldn''t tell what the meaning was supposed to be.


    He looked up into the clear blue sky above him. The thought that goblins had created something that hadsted so very long resonated with the hobgoblin. The idea of making things such as this had never even urred to him before now. He turned to his master.


    Thank you, master, he told him. Saeter eyed him curiously and a corner of his mouth rose to form a smirk.


    For what? he asked.


    Everything, cknail replied. He turned back to the stone and touched it again.


    Red Dog stomped over and interrupted them. He looked annoyed and was scowling.


    Great, so not only do we have to sleep beside a bloody hobgoblin; but were also setting up camp in some sort of creepy goblin shrine thing, he remarked.


    Youre the boss. We could try to find a different spot if you want, but this one seems better than most. That is of course unless on top of your fear of hobgoblins youre also afraid of ghosts? Saeter joked.


    It sure doesnt sound like Im the boss, Red Dog grumbled as he walked past them and began helping set up.


    It didnt take them a lot of time to set up for the night. They had been traveling light. Beyond the basic gear and weapons, all they had brought was nkets and arge tarp in case it rained.


    Red Dog didnt allow anyone to light a fire until it got dark. He wanted there to be no chance of them being detected, and a fire during the day would be too much of a risk. The smoke would be visible for miles.


    As night began to fall cknail could smell some of the new recruits grow nervous. For many of them it was their first time out in the woods at night in such a small group. The fact that they didnt have a fire, but did have bad human night vision, probably didnt help either.


    When the night sky had ckened enough topletely mask any smoke Red Dog finally lit a fire in the center of the boulders. He kept it small enough that it was unlikely anyone would see it through the trees.


    The fire helped a little but a lot of the men still seemed nervous. cknail didnt me them. He didnt like camping out in the forest much either. The shadowy forest and reaching tree branches could have been concealing any number of threats, and unlike most of the men here he knew exactly what to be afraid of.


    As a hobgoblin he might berger than before, but most of the hungry beasts that lived in the woods would barely notice the difference. He would simply be a slightly more filling snack.


    Between the aura of fear and the heavy watch Red Dog insisted on very few people got a good sleep that night. Many of the bandits slept fretfully and were awake much of the night. cknail himself slept more than he had nned to. He found the presence of the ancient stones that encircled their camp soothing for some reason, and so he slept peacefully.


    Eventually the long night ended and dusk broke. The few people who were sleeping were awakened, and the group packed up and headed out toplete their mission.


    They followed the road, but stuck to the edges of the bush so that anyone watching would have a hard time seeing them. The party was split in two, with one group on each side of the road, so they wouldnt miss anything. Saeter led one group, and Red Dog the other.


    Moving through the thick underbrush of the forest slowed them down quite a bit, but they had much less distance to travel today. At first nothing stood out as they made their way along the road.


    Whats that, one of the new recruits asked, as he pointed to a spot beside the road. Everyone immediately looked in the direction he indicated, including cknail.


    Looks like a trashed wagon. Lets check it out, another bandit replied after a second.


    Wait a second. First well search the area to see if anyone is watching, Saeter told them.


    At Saetersmand they continued on past the wagon through the woods. When they didnt find anyone or anything Saeter stepped out onto the road and looked around.


    I dont see any good vantage points nearby, so we should be unobserved, he told them.


    He ordered several men to cross the road and fetch Red Dog while he and the others headed back to check out the wagon. They walked down the road until they got to the wooden wreck. It was concealed from the road by a small overgrown hill, which they had to go around.


    When they got to the wagon cknail immediately smelled blood, human blood. The wagon itself was badly damaged, and nothing but a pile of broken wood that had been stripped of everything useful.


    Red Dog and his group arrived and joined them around the wreck.


    Well, this was sure a waste of time, one of the banditsmented.


    No it wasnt. Im willing to bet this is the work of our highwaymen. This looks like a farmer or small merchants wagon. That would be an inviting target for them. Saeter replied.


    How does that help us? someone asked.


    We know they were here not too long ago, so now we just need to track them back to theirir, Saeter exined as he examined the wagon and the ground around it. After a minute he straightened up and turned to cknail.


    Do you have a scent? he asked the hobgoblin.


    Yes, one of them bleeds, cknail replied. He smiled eagerly as the scent of blood and his masters attention excited him.


    That makes this almost too easy, Saeter said as he smiled back.


    Bloody creepy is what it is, someone muttered.


    Just be d hes on our side, someone else whispered softly, but not so softly that cknail couldnt hear them.


    The hobgoblins smile widened in response. That was what he wanted the humans to think, that they were better off with him on their side.


    So you can track them? Red Dog asked. Saeter huffed indignantly before responding.


    I can track practically anyone or anything. They left plenty of signs and with cknails nose this will be as easy as falling off a log, he answered.


    Good, then you and your pet can lead the way, Red Dog told him.


    cknail hissed softly in anger at the disrespect he heard in the mans voice, but he suppressed the sudden re of rage and didnt act on it further. This didnt stop the two men closest to him from backing away a few steps though.


    Red Dog though was apparently unconcerned and ignored the hobgoblin, but Saeter gave cknail a disapproving look.


    Lets get going, Red Dog told everyone.


    Saeter led them across the road and into the forest once again. The rest of the bandits followed him and cknail. As they moved Saeter pointed out signs to the hobgoblin, like broken twigs and a partial boot prints.


    cknail found it interesting but almost unnecessary since he could simply follow their preys scent. Saeter had to stop and look around for tracks every once and a while but cknail never lost the trail. His master seemed to want to track the highwaymen himself, because he only asked for cknails help once.


    The iron like scent of blood began to grow stronger as they walked deeper into the woods, until cknail started to be concerned.


    More blood, he whispered to Saeter. His master frowned in concern as well, but they continued moving forward.


    They soon found the source of the smell. Up aheadying on the forest floor was a human corpse, and it had been shredded. It took a few seconds to identify it as the remains of a man. It was little more than a pile of bloody flesh and broken bones.


    Shit. This wasnt done by no man, One of the bandits said as he went white and began to panic.


    Behind cknail Red Dog calmly drew his sword, and leveled it at the panicked speakers throat.


    If you cant keep your shit together then just shut up and stay fucking still, or youll regret it he told the startled man. Then he turned to Saeter who had crouched down to examine the body.


    What are we dealing with? he asked grimly.


    Hopefully nothing, because it filled its stomach and left. This mess is definitely the work of a troll though, Saeter answered.


    Damnation, Red Dog swore. I fucking hate trolls. Every time I run into one someone dies,

 Written in Blood 5

    Written in Blood 5


    Could be worse, it could have been a drake, Saeter replied. Trolls are smaller and will rarely attack a group of armed men this big, especially if theyve just eaten. As long as we dont trip over the damned thing we should be fine. This one must have followed the same blood trail as cknail and picked the bleeder off.


    Several of the bandits looked more than a little afraid. Several of them were throwing nervous nces at the woods around them.


    Whats a troll? I mean Ive heard of them but I never actually expected to see one, or have one see me, one of the new recruits asked.


    Saeter gave the man a disdainful look, but answered him.


    Trolls have twin fangs the size of long knives and thick skin that doesnt bleed unless you pretty much decapitate them. Except for that, theyre basically what you would get if you took a goblin and made it twice the size of a man and a hundred times as angry, he exined.


    Bloody lovely one of the other bandits muttered sarcastically.


    Saeter then got up and examined the ground all around the corpse. He called cknail over and showed the hobgoblin various signs within the disturbed area. The hobgoblin found this much more interesting than his earlier tracking lessons. His sense of smell didnt help him nearly as much.


    It looks like there were three men here. The troll came down on them fast. It killed the wounded one and his friends made a run for it. It doesnt look like the troll followed them, instead it ate its fill and then headed off back into the woods, Saeter told Red Dog.


    The man looked thoughtful as he considered their options.


    We should be good to just follow them back to their camp then. Will they still be on alert? Red Dog asked Saeter.


    Hard to say. Im guessing the troll attack happenedst night, which is enough time that I would feel safe. I doubt these guys are used to the forest though, so Id bet they didnt get much sleepst night, Saeter answered.


    And we did? cknail heard someone mutter behind him.


    Well go carefully then, and when we find the camp well circle around. Theyll undoubtedly be watching the direct way, for trolls if nothing else, Red Dog told them.


    Saeter nodded in agreement.


    Ill take cknail and scout the path ahead then. Well take out or mark any sentries so then you and the others can approach unseen, Saeter suggested.


    Sounds good, Red Dog replied.


    Come cknail. Its time for me to teach you the more violent parts of the rangers trade. I have a feeling youll pick it up quick, Saeter told the hobgoblin, as he shrugged off his backpack and handed it to another bandit.


    cknail chuckled and licked his lips. This sounded like it would be so much fun. He could think of nothing he would rather do than stalk unsuspecting prey through the woods with the scent of blood in the air. His heart pounded in excitement just thinking about it.


    Thank you-ss so much, master, he replied excitedly as a wicked grin stretched across his face.


    Saeter slipped through the trees so quietly that even cknail had difficulty hearing him. He followed in his masters wake and tried to be just as silent. To his own ears he wasnt quite sessful, but with his boots removed he moved quietly enough that Saeter didntin.


    The hobgoblin instinctively knew how to bnce himself, and where to ce his bare feet to avoid breaking twigs and other obstacles. After so long walking in boots the cool earth and wet grass felt soothing beneath his feet as he walked. The thrill of the hunt he was feeling was more than worth the long walk it had taken to get here.


    The canopy overhead was thin enough that lots of light got through. The abundance of sunshine meant the forest around him was thick with green leaved bushes. This gave them plenty of cover and helped them conceal themselves.


    The area was also rockier than where Herad had made her camp. Every once and awhile they would stumble upon arge exposed boulder that rose from the earth, like the ones they had sheltered amongst night.


    Ahead of him Saeter moved out from behind a tree to peer at a trampled nt. Having confirmed that he was still on the right track, the scout got up and started moving again. He stalked through the bush while moving from cover to cover and checking for signs of their targets.


    cknail observed and tried to copy his masters movements. He was very impressed by how quietly Saeter could move and how he could track without using his nose.


    The hobgoblin watched his master examine the surrounding forest while crouched behind a bush. After a minute Saeter raised a hand and signaled cknail.


    Before they had headed out to track down the deserters Saeter had made him memorize several different hand signals. cknail had instantly realized how useful they would be formunicating without making any noise. His master was a genius foring up with such a great idea. cknail was sure nothing like it would ever have urred to him.


    The signal his master was currently sending meant that he should get to cover because someone might be around. cknail felt a sh of excitement at the thought of finally cornering their quarry. He felt his mouth moisten with saliva in anticipation, but he obeyed his master and remained where he was. Slowly and carefully as not to attract attention the hobgoblin bent down and took cover at the base of the tree beside him.


    However, he couldnt resist the urge to peek out and look for whatever Saeter had seen. cknail eagerly scanned the forest for signs, but was disappointed when he didnt see anything or anyone among the leafy branches or rough barked tree trunks around him.


    He wanted to hunt! His teeth ached, and his tongue flicked out and over his teeth to clean them in preparation. He shivered as he felt a seductive feeling simr to rage start to burn within him. It filled him with a hunger for action and blood.


    cknail had to close his eyes and focus on mentally picturing sword exercises to suppress the urges. He knew discipline would make him stronger than rage or hunger ever could.


    A few secondster after cknail had managed to get his urges under control he opened his eyes to see Saeter shing more signals his way. The first signal told cknail to look over to his left, and the next meant he wanted cknail to wait and watch. With a regretful sigh the hobgoblin resigned himself to spending the next little while waiting, and not hunting.


    As Saeter stealthy got up and began moving cknail looked over in the direction his master had indicated. He still didnt see anything. Saeter stopped beside arge smooth tree trunk and signaled cknail again. He wanted the hobgoblin to carefully circle the target from the opposite direction.


    cknail smiled as he got up and obeyed. Finally, a chance to act! Excitedly he crept forward while looking for his prey. Then as he was moving over to arge jagged rock he saw movement out of the corner of his eye up on a nearby hill.


    Instantly the cloaked hobgoblin went totally still, and his eyes focused on that spot.


    As he watched cknail noticed something brown and human sized move ever so slightly. It was mostly hidden behind a tree, so he couldnt get a good look at it. He slipped around the boulder to get a better view.


    It was a man! He was scanning the forest from his high viewpoint while leaning against a tree. He had arge brown cloak on but under that was wearing a bright blue shirt and ck pants.


    The clothes confused cknail. He couldnt think of a good reason for wearing the blue shirt that would be anything but a stupid idea. Did the man want to be seen? Was it some sort of trap?


    cknail threw a look back at his master. Saeter noticed the nce and quickly raised two fingers in another sign. Two fingers meant that there was another man nearby. cknail hastily shed the where? sign back.


    His master pointed up to another spot on the hill, and then gestured to himself to show ownership. He then pointed to the man cknail could see and then back to the hobgoblin. cknail grinned happily and licked his lips. His master was going to take one of the men, and he wanted cknail to take the other. What a wonderful present his master had just given him.


    The hobgoblin watched the sentry on the hill until the man looked away. Then unseen, cknail slipped out from behind the rock, and crept forward along a path up the hill that was mostly concealed from the mans view. He was practically purring with joy.


    Soon the hobgoblin got close enough that he could smell the human, and he shivered in anticipation. He circled around the hill and began to climb it from the side. This was going to be so much fun!


    As he climbed cknails ears detected sounds that were out of ce in the forest. He paused in his advance to listen. It sounded like several humans talking and moving, which meant the human camp wasnt too far away.


    He examined the forest in that direction but didnt see anything that would mean anyone in the camp was close enough to see him. Reassured, the hobgoblin began to creep across the final stretch of bush between him and the human scout.


    His target was an average sized man with ck hair. He was still leaning against the tree whilezily scanning the forest below him for threats. However, cknail had already snuck right under the man nose and was now safely behind him out of sight. The sentry would never see the hobgoblining, which was just how cknail liked it.


    See anything yet, Kratz, the man suddenly yelled. cknail dropped to the ground in rm.


    Ha, I would have said something if I did,e an answering shout from out of sight.


    Ya, but the boss wanted us to check in with each other every once and awhile. I guess youre still alive since youre still talking and all, the first man replied in jest.


    The only answer the other man gave was a brief chuckle. cknail rose a bit and tried to find the second speaker, but much to his frustration couldnt see him.


    Then there was the sound of a scuffle and a brief gasp. cknails target looked over and frowned with concern.


    You okay, Kratz? I thought I heard something, the man shouted.


    The only sound from where the other man had been was a distinct cheery birdcall. The sentrys frown deepened as his concern turned to suspicion. He took a step towards the camp and opened his mouth as if to shout.


    cknail had alreadyunched himself forward at the man. The birdcall had been a signal. cknail was sure it meant Saeter had just taken out the second sentry, and that meant cknail needed to act.


    The hobgoblin covered the ground lightning fast. His long muscr body carried his light frame forward with startling speed. The wind whipped his cloak behind him as he shot forward from the bushes. Before the man could even turn or start yelling, cknail was upon him.


    The hobgoblin hit the unprepared man with a flying tackle that ended with his arms wrapped around his opponents waist. Surprise and momentum allowed the lighter hobgoblin to knock the man off bnce. It also knocked the air from his opponents lung, and prevented him from yelling out a warning.


    They careened off to the side together. As they fell the sentry iled uselessly. Meanwhile, cknail used his hold on the mans waist to pull himself up, and then twist one of his legs so he could hook it under the mans knee. Using the leverage this gave him cknail flipped himself around so that he was now clinging to the mans back.


    They hit the ground with a loud thud. The mannded face first with the weight of the hobgoblin on his back. The breath was knocked out of the sentry for a second time by the impact, and all he could do was wheeze in pain.


    The prone sentry tried to draw in a breath to yell, or maybe to scream, but cknail grabbed his hair and yanked the mans head up. This caused the man to croak in pain, and allowed cknail to wrap his other w around the mans neck.


    The sentry went very still as he felt the hobgoblins sharp nails dig into the flesh around his throat. He whimpered in fright, and cknail smiled in satisfaction. He then adjusted his weight so he could lean forward into the mans line of sight.


    The man must have suspected something was strange about his assant, but when he got a close look at cknails face his eyes widened and he went white as snow.


    Be very quiet, cknail half whispered and half growled to him.


    The mans head bobbed up and down. At first cknail thought the sentry was trying to nod, but then his eyes rolled up into his head until only the whites were visible and he went as limp as a dead fish.


    cknail released his grip on the mans throat and pped him across the face. The blow made a loud smacking noise and left a red handprint on the mans face, but otherwise the sentry didnt react.


    cknail hissed in disappointment. He had wanted to have more fun. He got to his feet and stared with dissatisfaction down at the unconscious sentry.


    cknail heard someone approach and turned to see Saeter push his way out from the bushes. Saeter frowned as he saw the corpse white and unmoving man at cknails feet.


    I thought I told you to try and capture them alive, Saeter told him with obvious disappointment.


    Hes not dead, just stupid. Stupid-ss man went to sleep, so hes no fun, cknail hissed in annoyance.


    I see, Saeter replied in a confused tone that meant he didnt really understand at all. He walked over to the unconscious man and kicked him a few times, but seemed satisfied when the man flinched and moaned ever so slightly.


    Preys camp is that way, cknail impatiently told his master as he raised a finger to point towards the source of the noise he had heard earlier.


    The hobgoblin wanted to continue the hunt. There were still more humans to catch, and he had never had so much fun before. He was lightheaded with giddiness and anticipation; even if he was also a little disappointed he couldnt eat any of the prey he caught.


    After throwing a look in the direction cknail had indicated Saeter addressed the hobgoblin.


    Good to know, but thats not our job right now. Grab that fellow and hide him in the bushes along with the one I knocked out. Then sit on them until I get back with Red Dog er you dont actually have to sit on them, just guard them, Saeter told cknail.


    Yes, master, cknail acknowledged with a disappointed sigh. Why couldnt his master just ever let him have fun? The humans were so close. He wanted to at least stalk them a little. No one would ever even know.


    Saeter turned away, and walked back through the trees towards where Red Dog was waiting for them. When he was gone the hobgoblin grabbed the man at his feet and started dragging him into the bushes. He easily found the man Saeter had knocked out by smell, and dumped the other sentry on top of him.


    He was almost disappointed that Saeter didnt actually want him to sit on them. Piled up as they were the unconscious men actually looked sort offy, and cknail liked the idea of resting atop the bodies of his defeated prey.


    cknails mind began to wander as he waited for Saeter to return. He was getting kind of hungry. He wasnt allowed to eat the humans but maybe he could lick them. Or maybe he could maim a few and eat the bits that came loose. They would survive that probably.


    After thinking it over for awhile cknail decided to simply take some jerky out of his pouch and eat that instead. He was in the middle of chewing it when he heard someone yell in his direction.


    Kratz! Teriol! Ive got your supper, the voice shouted in cknails direction.


    cknail calmly swallowed thest of the jerky and tried toe up with a n. Obviously this human was calling for the other two who had been knocked out. If he didnt get an answer then he would probably raise the rm, which would be bad.


    Should he try and mimic a human and reply himself? No, that wouldnt work. He didnt have a very human sounding voice. Human voices were all deep and dumb sounding.


    cknail started licking his fingers clean. Should he wake a human up and force them to answer? No, not enough time.


    cknails eyes swept over the unconscious men he was supposed to be guarding, and lingered on the smaller mans cloak and gloves. He grinned gleefully as an idea urred to him.


    Guys, you there? the voice called again.


    The speaker sounded a little nervous now. He stopped walking and nced warily at the bush in front of him for signs of his friends. He was bncing two tes of steaming hot food in his hands.


    The humans nervousness disappeared however when a small man he recognized stepped out from behind a tree. His hood was up for some reason but the man recognized the sentrys cloak.


    He smiled as he realized his friend was in the middle of a fit of coughing, which was probably why he hadnt answered him earlier. The sentry did however wave cheerfully as he strode forward, before then extending a gloved hand to take a te of food.


    Behind you, the sentry said between coughs, as he raised his other hand to point behind the man. His voice was unusually raspy, probably from the coughing.


    What is it? the deserter asked as he turned to look.


    That was when cknail, who was dressed in the sentrys clothes, jumped up and smashed him in the back of the head with the wooden te.


    Wha the man groaned as he staggered.


    cknail hit him again, and kept hitting him until he went down. Then the hobgoblin flipped his hood back to reveal his green grinning face, and began to drag the third man into the bushes to join the others. This was just too much fun!

 Written in Blood 6

    Written in Blood 6


    cknail was quite happy with himself. Not only had he tricked the stupid human, but he had managed to get some free food out of it as well. After hiding the body cknail walked back and picked up all the food that had been dropped onto the ground in the earlier scuffle.


    The hobgoblin spent the next few minutes watching the forest below from the top of the hill, and eating the red meat and hard bread that he had picked up earlier. From his vantage point at the sentrys post he saw Saeter and the other bandits arrive and begin to climb the hill below him.


    Er, you changed your clothes? Saeter asked cknail curiously when he reached the top and saw him. The other bandits were right behind the scout. One of them gave cknail a horrified nce.


    Forget about that. What in all the hells is he eating? the other bandit asked in rm when he saw cknail.


    The hobgoblin sniggered at the mans concern. He was sitting on the piled bodies of the unconscious men, while casually chewing a piece of meat. Hed tried finding something else, like a log, to sit on but hadnt ended up finding anything. Besides, this was actually veryfy.


    It smells, and looks, like boiled beef, someone else answered condescendingly to the other man. The first speaker flushed slightly.


    cknail ignored the other bandits and focused on Saeter. As amusing as they were, only his master was important.


    I had to be sneaky, cknail exined to Saeter, as he pointed to the third unconscious man.


    Huh, well I guess it worked, Saeter replied. He looked like he wanted to ask some more questions, but instead he turned to Red Dog.


    We should get going. Theyll soon notice these men are missing, Saeter told him.


    Red Dog nodded, then turned to cknail and gave him a disapproving look.


    Are those men still alive? he asked the hobgoblin.


    Probably, cknail replied as he shrugged.


    Red Dog appeared unsatisfied by cknails answer, but he scowled and turned back to Saeter.


    Fine, lets go. The hobgoblin stays here and guards these men, though, he said.


    I have no problem with that, Saeter replied without concern.


    Red Dog began giving orders to the other bandits. He got them organized and told them the n of attack. cknail listened and was sort of disappointed that he wouldnt be joining in the rest of the fun.


    Red Dogs n did seem like it might involve a lot of face to face fighting though, and cknail was fine with missing out on that. He much preferred attacking people from behind. It was safer.


    Besides, cknail knew he wasnt a very good swordsman yet. He much preferred the sneaky type of fighting. So, he had no problem with staying there while continuing to eat his food and sit on his trophies. Maybe one of them would even wake up, and then cknail could have some more fun.


    The Bandits finished their nning and drew their weapons. Most of them had swords, but others had bows or more exotic things like hand axes. Red Dog led the way and the group headed towards the deserters camp.


    With their dirty unshaven faces and their worn down and mismatched leather armor the bandits looked savage and dangerous. They didnt however disy the discipline andpetence of the horsemen from earlier or even Persus guards.


    cknail watched them go, and decided he wasnt going to listen to Red Dog after all. When the other bandits were out of sight the hobgoblin got up and followed them. He wanted to see what happened next.


    Saeter led Red Dog and the rest of their group of ouws through the woods towards their target. They moved slowly in order to sneak up on the group of deserters who had set up camp ahead. The thick trees and hilly terrain concealed their approach.


    It didnt take long for Saeters group to get within sight of the deserters camp. The old scout stopped at the edge of the forest where it ended in a cliff. He crouched low to the ground to help conceal himself and looked down. Below them and down a rocky incliney a small recessed valley.


    The sound of rushing water could be heard from a small waterfall that rushed down the steep rocky cliff thaty across the valley. The creek it fed then wandered along one side of the valley and marked its boundary. The thick forest and sharp hills continued on the other side of the stream.


    A bunch of uniform blue tents had been set up within the gorge. Under an overhang on one section of the cliff the deserters had also constructed arge crude wooden structure. Seater and Red Dog could see a number of men moving about or lounging around the area. In the center of the tents someone was cooking on arge fire.


    Well, those are definitely standard Elorian infantry tents. That means these are our deserters, Red Dog whispered.


    It could be an entirely different group of deserters who just happen to be highwaymen as well, one of the new recruits whispered back.


    Red Dog was not amused by thement, and it showed on his face. One of the other bandits took this as permission to cuff the speaker. The man took the blow and shut up.


    Look at the tents and that shelter over there. There are more of them than we thought, Saeter told Red Dog.


    How many do you think there are, exactly? Red Dog asked him.


    At least as many as us, even without counting the scouts we took out on the way in, Seater answered.


    Then I guess well just have to go back, and ask Herad for some reinforcements, Red Dog muttered sarcastically, as he scowled down at the camp below them. No oneughed.


    Youre in charge, Saeter remarked indifferently. Red Dog gave him a dirty look. The bandit lieutenant clearly didnt like any of the options avable to him.


    We have the advantage of surprise, he mused.


    Until we lose it, Saeter added.


    If you have nothing constructive to add, then shut up. Red Dog hissed back.


    Saeter didnt bother to respond, or even turn around. He kept looking over the cliff and at the deserters camp.


    Fine, heres what well do. Well go down the hill that way, and then sneak around to those tents over there. Theyre close to the edge of the woods, and there are quite a few men lounging about around them. Well rush out and capture them before they know what is happening. Thatll give us the advantage in numbers, and some prisoners to bargain with, Red Dog told them as gestured to various spots below them.


    With odds this close Ive always preferred less direct attacks. We could scout around a bit more, Saeter rmended.


    That could take hours. They could stumble onto our trail, or notice their missing sentries at any time. No, we have to go in now, Red Dog replied.


    Fine, Ill stay here as a lookout. That way I can guard the rear, and cover you with my bow, Saeter suggested.


    Red Dog appeared to think it over for a few seconds.


    No, you can cover us better from further down the hill and closer to the action. Besides, you just unpacked that sword of yours, so lets give you an opportunity to use it, Red Dog told him with a smirk.


    Saeter didnt look happy with the other bandits decision, but when Red Dog led the rest of the ouws down the slope he followed them.


    Red Dog slowly and carefully led his group of twenty-four bandits down the slope and through the woods around the camp. The slope was rocky and cover was limited to the asionalrge rock or bush so they had to move carefully, but they made it safely to the bottom and back into the forest without being seen.


    As they moved through the trees there were several times when a new recruit messed up or slipped and idently made a loud noise. When that happened everyone froze and listened nervously for any reaction from the men ahead of them. When no one noticed them they continued on.


    Once they were only a few dozen feet from the tents, and the deserters around them, they stopped to observe their targets for a minute. There were eight enemies seated or standing around their target. Only a few of them had any weapons on them, and none of them were in their hands. An about equal number of other men were visible in more distant areas of the camp.


    Silently, Red Dog signaled his men forward. Ever so slowly they crawled through thest stretch of thick brush and towards the back of the tents that sat at edge of the woods. Saeter was with them, but wasgging behind and holding up the rear. When Red Dog reached the edge of the forest he burst out, and into a run.


    Therge man raced around the tents and announced himself by punching out the closest deserter. There was a loud crack as his fist impacted the other mans chin. As the now unconscious deserter fell to the ground, his startledpanions sprung to their feet.


    The rest of Red Dogs rugged ouws were right behind him. They crashed into the unsuspecting opponents ahead of them with. Saeter remained at the edge of the woods and drew his bow.


    In front of the tents a melee had started, even if it was a very one sided one. Red Dogs men not only outnumbered their opponents, but the enemy was also mostly unarmed. Red Dog himself managed toy another deserter low with a second solid punch before even having to draw his de.


    It didnt take long for the rest of the deserters to realize something was happening. Their camp came alive like an anthill that had just been kicked. Shouts of panic and rm filled the air as they tried to figure out what was going on.


    The closest group of deserters began falling one after another. Some of the bandits used clubs, or were just strong enough, to disable their opponents with painful blunt strikes. Others simply surrendered when swords and daggers were shoved in their faces, and they were then forced to the ground.


    Those that tried to run or draw their own des were put down hard, usually in a bloody and fatal manner. As they were cut down brief screams of pain joined the panicked yelling that filled the camp. Only one man managed to flee across the camp to regroup with his fellows.


    By this time, the deserters in the rest of the camp were beginning to get organized. One man emerged from a tent across the camp with a bow, and promptly shot an arrow at Red Dog.


    The bandit lieutenant didnt see iting; he was busy watching over his men. Fortunately for him the shot missed and ripped through the tent behind him.


    The noise alerted Red Dog to the threat and he spun to find the shooter. Before the archer could try for another shot one of Saeters arrows took him in the chest. Red Dog gave Seater a brief nod of thanks.


    An organized group of defenders began to appear, across the camp. Arge group of deserters had banded together and armed themselves, but were holding back for now.


    Saeter sent a few arrows their way to distract them. The deserters scattered and took cover among the nearby tents, rocks, and equipment. Shouting could be heard as someone attempted to get the former soldiers organized ande up with a n.


    Their n became obvious when reinforcements arrived carrying round wooden shields, and the rest of the deserters formed up behind them. Saeter took a few more shots at the men behind the shields, but they intercepted every one. With an annoyed grunt Saeter stopped shooting to preserve arrows, and the fighting ground to a halt.


    On one side of the camp were Red Dog and the rough looking bandits. They numbered two dozen, but were busy regrouping and securing their captives. Almost a dozen meny on the ground at their feet.


    On the other side a dozen armed and organized deserters were ring at their attackers, but werent moving to engage them. Most of them still wore their blue military uniforms. Every once and awhile they would be reinforced by a straggler or two.


    Well thats inconvenient. Who would have thought they would have carried those heavy things all the way here. No one in the band bothers with shields, Red Dog remarked as he examined their next group of opponents.


    Bah, who cares? A few shields isnt going to help them, one of the bandits said.


    True, we have them outnumbered now. So, lets see if they want to negotiate, Red Dog announced. However, before he could do anything though the situation changed.


    What the fuck is all this now? a deep booming voice suddenly yelled.


    The group of deserters grew agitated and then split apart, to let arge man walk to the front of them. He towered over the nearby men, and was heavily muscled. Even from a distance it was obvious he was bigger and more muscled than even Vorscha.


    He had a huge two handed sword over his shoulder, and wore a chainmail shirt on his chest. As the bandits watched he pulled a metal helmet over his head. A few more deserters arrived alongside him, which meant the bandits only had a slight advantage in numbers now.


    Well, balls, Red Dog swore as he eyed this new opponent. He didnt seem happy.


    Our superior numbers wont mean much if we have to worry about prisoners, Saeter remarked.


    I dont suppose you could just shoot him? Red Dog asked. They both knew who he meant.


    With that armor and those nearby shields its not bloody likely, Saeter replied.


    Damn, that would have made this a lot easier, Red Dog muttered half heartedly.


    Their discussion was interrupted by a loud yell from the deserter leader. Instantly both sides went still. The air was thick with tension.


    Who in all the hells are you lot? he roared. Saeter gave Red Dog a look that clearly indicated that it was up to him to answer, and that he had better make it good.


    Were bandits in service to Herad the ck Snake. Youve been poaching in her territory so she sent us to put a stop to it, Red Dog yelled back.


    What, she was too afraid toe herself? the giant asked arrogantly.


    More like you arent worth her time. Why would she bother herself with a few deserters? She runs this entire territory, and has hundreds of men under hermand, Red Dog replied.


    Saeter gave a quiet snort of amusement at the exaggeration. Red Dog ignored him.


    So then why did she send so few of her men to kill us? was the unconvinced reply.


    Were not here just to kill you. Were also here to offer you a chance to join us. Youd be stupid not to take it, Red Dog told them.


    Why in all the hells would we want to join up with a bitch like the ck Snake? the manughed.


    So, that you dont all die. You may think youre tough ex-army shit, but so are half the ouws in the North. We saw what was left of one of your men when that troll got through with him. Youve no idea how to survive in the North. Even if we dont kill you, something else will soon enough, Red Dog argued.


    Ha, if that trolles back Ill kill it myself. We dont need you, or your bitch. Ill kill her soon enough anyway, and then this territory will be mine. Ill give you one chance to save yourselves. Join me, the man bragged as he pulled a vial from a pouch and held it up for them to see.


    Fuck me, hes a Slosher, Red Dog moaned.


    As a ripple of fear spread through Herads minions another man stepped forward from among the deserters. He was a in looking man whose chin was covered in stubble and whose brown hair was un-kept. The only reason he stood out was that he was holding a long staff that ended in a wed orb.


    Abat mage too. They have a thrice damnedbat mage! I strongly suggest we run now, Saeter told Red Dog.


    We dont know what crystals he has, and what magic he can do. Red Dog replied.


    Does it matter? I doubt he would be lugging that staff around if all it could do was light his way to the privy, Saeter responded harshly.


    If we run that Slosher will chase us down quickly enough, Red Dog reasoned.


    If he hasnt taken any Elixir yet, then he wont unless he has to. He must know how hard that stuff is to get out here, Saeter guessed.


    I suppose you cant just shoot the mage either? Red Dog asked darkly.


    Even if I could, whos going to fight that huge armored Slosher, you? was Saeters sarcastic reply.


    Red Dog sighed. He seemed to dete as he slouched in despair.


    You know what really bothers me about all this? That the bloody goblin of yours is the only one whos going to survive this, he muttered darkly.


    Give me your answer, or Ill cut you to pieces, the giant roared impatiently before Saeter could reply.


    Were discussing your offer. Give us a second, Red Dog yelled back with an annoyed tone.


    Dont piss him off! Saeter hissed.


    Or what, hell kill us? Red Dog hissed back.


    cknail watched Saeter and Red Dog continue to argue from atop the hill that looked down on the camp. It definitely seemed like his master was in a trouble.


    Things had been going well until that big male human had arrived. For some reason everyone was afraid of him. Well, he did have a very impressive sword and a shiny hat.


    The men behind Red Dog seemed on the edge of panic. Even his master looked out of sorts. cknail med the fat faced man, Red Dog. His n had obviously been stupid and had put cknails master in danger.


    The hobgoblin really didnt want his master to get hurt or die, and it was looking increasingly likely that he would. He owed the man too much to let that happen.


    He also really didnt want to have to walk back to camp alone, and then try and exin everything that had happened to Herad. He doubted she would be very understanding, or that he would survive.


    What could he do though? The problem was the big man. So cknail had to do something about him, but what? He was definitely very big, and cknail was rather small. It would however be very satisfying to defeat such a man to kill him.


    cknail shivered as the cruel hunger from before surged through him again. Feeling giddy and lightheaded, the hobgoblin smiled viciously in anticipation as he quickly considered various schemes. Yes, he would show these enemy humans why they should have never entered his territory!


    Having made up his mind cknailunched himself down the hill, and scrambled through the woods. On all four limbs he navigated through the tangle of bushes and avoided the rocks at high speed. His light agile body allowed the hobgoblin to move in ways humans couldnt.


    Once he reached the edge of the woods thaty below the hill the hobgoblin forced himself to a stop. That done he quickly brushed himself off, and threw his hood up. Then with false calm he strolled out of the woods and into the deserters camp.


    Immediately several of the deserters looked his way. cknail felt their gazes on him as he approached, and nervously noted that they were all armed and rather angry looking. He doubted he could fight a single one of therge humans off, let alone the whole group.


    cknail really hoped his n was going to work. He probably should have spent a little more time thinking it through. It had seemed like such a good idea at the time though, when he had been far away and safe. If this n failed not only was he going to die painfully, but most likely so would his master.


    Up ahead therge human leader raised his huge sword into the air and roared.


    You cowardly dogs have had all the time Im willing to give you! No more stalling. Its time to fight. When I cut you fuckers down Im going to make sure your deaths are slow and bloody, as a warning to others, he yelled with a voice full of rage and bloodlust.

 Written in Blood 7

    Written in Blood 7


    None of the deserters did more than nce briefly cknails way as he walked up behind them. They were preupied by the bandits in front of them, and the hobgoblin was still wearing the cloak he had won from the sentry. Winning something from a fight was very different from stealing it.


    No one found anything odd about another straggler joining the group now and thats exactly what cknail looked like. Most the deserters wore the same cloak as him, and he wasnt even the only one in the group with his hood up.


    The hobgoblin stretched himself as tall as possible and walked on his toes as he entered the crowd of deserters. He hoped his somewhat awkward gait wouldnt attract attention but he was short for a human so he had to do something. He avoided directly looking at anyone and tilted his head down so that his green skin was hidden within the shadows of his cloak.


    cknail saw his target; he was rather hard to miss actually. The man loomed over the other deserters like a solitary mountain over the forest.


    Quickly, but without seeming hurried the hobgoblin walked up behind therge man. Luckily for him, the rest of the men had had taken a few steps back from their leader and given him space.


    Youve had all the time you need. If you dont surrender right this second Im going to kill everyst one of you! the enemy leader yelled.


    Hmmm, cknail muttered thoughtfully to himself.


    He wasnt sure what his next move was going to be. Things seemed moreplicated now that he was actually in the middle of the enemy tribe. His target was definitely very big!


    Even from the back he towered over the hobgoblin. cknail would have trouble just reaching his throat and that the shiny shirt protected his chest. The hobgoblin needed to adjust his n, and quickly, or it wouldnt work.


    A tall man with a sword in his hand turned towards cknail and looked him over. He was standing only a few feet away.


    Ha, Ill bet you two silver that those spineless dogs are going to surrender any second now. No one sane would pick a fight with Basghus, the swordsman told cknail.


    The hobgoblin gave a vague grunt of acknowledgement and ignored the man. He still needed toe up with a better n.


    The disguised hobgoblin perked up as an idea suddenly urred to him. He sure hoped he could pull it off. Stupid Red Dog, his insane n had put cknails master in danger. cknail idly wondered how the man had survived so long without someone around to clean up his messes.


    The hobgoblin drew his dagger as he stood in the very middle of his tribes enemies. He sighed in relief when his action failed to raise anyones suspicion. Everyone around him was still focused on Red Dogs group.


    Then, with a vicious snarl, cknail pounced onto the back of the enemy tribes leader. As everyone around him reacted in shock, cknail got a firm grip on the neck of big mans chain shirt and pulled himself up higher.


    What the holy fucks!? the giant yelled as he jumped in surprise.


    He dropped his sword and the vial he was holding, spun around, and reached back to try and grab the freaky thing that was climbing his back.


    cknail wasted no time. As the man flinched and tried to grab him, the hobgoblin reached around and cut the mans exposed throat. The dagger dug deep as cknail put as much force as possible into it. He wouldnt get a second chance at this. He felt warm blood wash over his hand, and the scent of wet iron filled the air.


    As the man choked and began to topple forward like a felled tree, cknail flipped himself over the mans shoulders. Hended on the ground, and rolled straight towards the bandits and safety. His hood slipped off as he moved.


    cknail didnt even notice; he waspletely focused on sprinting like mad towards his master. He had a feeling there was about to be a whole bunch of very angry humans behind him.


    He cut through the wind and tore the dirt up behind him as he ran. He pushed himself faster and faster, and he didnt even think of stopping until he had hurtled past the bandits. He was going so fast he had to drop and roll wildly across the ground to reduce his momentum so he could stop. Once safe behind Red Dog and the others, he climbed back to his feet.


    As cknail brushed some of the dirt from the roll off of himself, he noticed that everyone was staring at him. The bandits had all turned away from their opponents and were looking at him. Their mouths were open and eyes were wide with shock.


    What? cknail asked.


    Then he threw a nervous nce behind himself, just in case. There was nothing there, but you could never be sure in this ursed forest.


    Messa-Miens mercy! Where did youe from? Red Dog eximed.


    cknail considered the question for a second.


    From the sewers? he replied uncertainly.


    Saeter broke outughing so loudly and joyfully that it echoed through the camp.


    So much for the Slosher, he cackled.


    We still have to worry about thatbat mage, Red Dog reminded him, but a big half crazy smile was stered across his face as he said it.


    Saeter gave the other man an even bigger grin, which almost didnt seem possible. His normally lined face looked practically cragged as he smiled uncharacteristically. Then cknails master turned and faced the deserters.


    They were still recovering from the shock of seeing the hobgoblin murder their supposedly invincible leader right in front of them. Not a single one of them had even started after cknail. They were still staring wide eyed at each other and the corpse on the ground in front of them.


    Surrender now, or well send more hobgoblins after you! Saeter yelled.


    No one answered for a few seconds.


    We surrender, as long as your offer to join Herad is still good someone eventually called out.


    It was the staff carrying mage that answered. He was still staring in shock at the corpse of the vessel. No one among the deserters challenged his decision.


    It is, Red Dog yelled back.


    I guess we won then, Saeter announced with satisfaction.


    Red Dog just blinked nkly at him.


    Good, cknail. Im feeding you as much as you can eat when we get back. Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    And Im buying you a beer, another bandit added. He had a faraway look in his eyes.


    A chorus of agreements and offers of treats flowed from the rest of the bandits. cknail smiled at them. Even Red Dog gave him an approving nod.


    I protect my band-ss. Its what warriors do, the hobgoblin lied through his sharp pointy teeth.


    He had only really cared about saving Saeter, but he was more than happy to take the opportunity to suck up and make some new allies.


    It took a few seconds for everyone to remember that they were still in hostile territory and sober up. When they did, Red Dog straightened up and walked a few steps towards the defeated deserters. They were just standing there looking unsure of what to do, or even of what had just happened.


    Hey! You guys drop your weapons, and that goes double for the mage. Youre now our captives until you officially join up with the ck Snake, he yelled at them.


    cknail walked up beside the bandit lieutenant, and gave him another toothy smile.


    I get the big ones shiny hat, he told Red Dog.


    Red Dog let him take the helmet.


    As Saeter and other bandits organized the aftermath of the fight, cknail wandered around the camp and explored. Since everyone else in his band was busy rounding up the deserters he had the camp almost to himself.


    The clearing the deserters had made their home in was filled with the army equipment they had taken with them and the goods they had stolen. A very crude wooden shelter had been set up under the ledge of an overhanging cliff, and over a dozen simr small blue tents were scattered around. The far end of the camp was marked by a small muddy stream.


    As cknail wandered about he tried on his new helmet. It didnt fit. It was far toorge and it rattled as he walked. Hisrge green nose also poked out and the helmet pinched it painfully. With a sad sigh, cknail packed it away forter and then continued riffling through the nearby tents and supplies.


    Everything he found that peaked his interest, like random pieces of clothes and shiny things, ended up shoved into his pouches or pack. Everything that smelled tasty ended up shoved into his mouth.


    As cknail was chewing a piece of cheese, which he had recently acquired a taste for, he heard an unexpected rustling from a nearby tent. Curious but wary, he crept over to check it out.


    Something was definitely moving within the blue tent ahead! The sounds were quiet, as if someone or something was trying to make as little noise as possible. The idea of something hiding from cknail triggered his predator instincts. Surely, it wouldnt be hiding if it didnt have something to hide? Something cknail wanted


    Silently, the hobgoblin approached the entrance to the tent. He carefully grabbed the entrance p, and then he ripped it open so he could peer inside.


    He had a brief glimpse of a naked woman huddled among a pile of nkets and holding one to her chest, before the tin te she had thrown smashed into his face. cknail hissed in pain and staggered back from the tent.


    The woman began to scream fearfully. Outside the tent, cknail hopped around in pain. cknails nose had taken the brunt of the hit, and had started to throb painfully. It hurt a lot. He rubbed his nose, and then pinched the end. Neither of which really helped at all. The woman continued screaming shrilly, which on top of everything else hurt his ears.


    Themotion attracted Saeter and several other bandits. His master calmly took in the sight of the obviously pained hobgoblin and the screams from the tent.


    Well, what do we have here? Saeter asked.


    Sounds like a woman to me, one of the other bandits replied eagerly.


    She hit me! cknail whined pitifully to his master.


    Some man ying monster you are. Im d none of our prisoners are here to see this. Theyre terrified of our killer hobgoblin, Saeter remarked as he smirked.


    A few of the other bandits chuckled as well. cknail gave them a hostile re, but that only made them chuckle more. Saeter turned to the tent and addressed the upant.


    Come out now and you wont be harmed. Stay in there and you wont like what happens next, Saetermanded.


    Nothing happened for a few seconds. Then there was a brief ruffling noise, and the woman who had assaulted cknail stepped out of the tent.


    Her hair was long and blonde, and her eyes were light blue. Her thin but mature figure andrge breasts were covered only by nket she had wrapped around herself. One of the bandits whistled appreciatively.


    cknail rubbed his sore nose, and red at her. He thought she was ugly, smelly and, stupid.


    The woman was pale and shivering ever so slightly with fear. Her eyes were wet and glossy as she met the stares of the bandits, but she did meet them. She only flinched when she noticed cknail ring at her hatefully. She seemed determined not to let her fear show.


    And who might you be? Saeter asked her politely. There was a silly smile on his face that cknail didnt recognize.


    My name is Erissa, sir. I was travelling to Riverdown with some merchants, when they were killed by Basghus. He took me prisoner and used me to warm his bed, she answered with a slight tremor in her voice. May I ask who you are?


    She appeared afraid, and smelled of fear as well, but cknail noticed her give every bandit a brief appraising look. This woman wasnt helpless.


    Ah, were bandits as well, but of a less crude sort. Whos this Basghus you speak of? Saeter replied carefully.


    The blonde looked weary but replied quickly.


    Hes the big leader of the bandits here, she stuttered with evident confusion.


    She seemed to have disregarded the other bandits and was now focusing on Saeter. She stepped towards him until she was within an easy arms reach. Then, she looked up and met his gaze.


    Ah, him. Hes dead, so you dont need to worry, Saeter told her as he fidgeted and looked ufortable.


    Wha what are you going to do to me? Erissa asked.


    Nothing you havent been through before Im sure, one bandit joked.


    Saeter tore his gaze away from Erissa and gave him a brief disapproving look.


    Youre our prisoner for now, but behave yourself and well drop you off at Riverdown, he told her.


    Erissa looked somewhat, but far frompletely, relieved at the older mans words.


    Thank you, she simpered gratefully as she held the nket to her chest and Saeter smiled at her.


    Wait a second, I just realized something, A shorter bandit suddenly blurted out.


    What? Saeter asked impatiently.


    ording to Herads rules she goes to whoever found her, but that wasnt you. cknail was the one that found her he exined.


    Everyone, including the woman, turned to look at the hobgoblin. Startled at all the unexpected attention cknail gave them a t uprehending look back.


    Then shes mine until we find somewhere to get rid of her, Saeter told everyone.


    Um, how do you know cknail doesnt want her? I mean, there are stories about hobgoblins and women who get lost in the woods, another bandit asked.


    Erissa suddenly looked terrified. She took another step towards Saeter until she was practically pressed against him. cknails master reached over and smacked the bandit that has just spoken across the side of the head.


    Youre definitely not a farm boy, or youd know why those are tall tales. Im not going to exin the birds and the bees to you, but you should know it doesnt work that way. If it did we would be up to our eyeballs in forest nymphs and frog knights, Saeter answered him scathingly.


    I was just saying, the red faced bandit muttered as he massaged the side of his head.


    Several of his fellows were smiling or chuckling at his expense. Erissa just looked really relieved, and cknail didnt quite understand what was going on. Did they expect him to eat her?


    She smells bad, cknail said.


    Several bandits broke out intoughter. Even Saeter looked amused. The blonde womans one eye twitched and she scowled at cknail. The hobgoblin was now even more confused. Did the stupid woman want to be eaten? He scowled back at her.


    Im leaving, cknail muttered as he began to walk away.


    There were still ces in the camp he hadnt explored yet, and his master was acting all weird. Being alone right now sounded like a great idea.


    Eventually, after the hobgoblin had imed a few more trophies for himself, the deserters were released. After all their weapons where collected they were allowed to start packing up. Red Dog nned to sleep over at the camp and then head back with the new recruits in the morning.


    They set up all their own gear in one corner of the camp and put several men on watch. Both Red Dog and Saeter thought the deserters were sincere in their surrender and desire to join Herad, but neither of them was willing to put themselves at risk to test it either.


    As night fell, everyone began to lie up for the night. Several of Red Dogs men were seated around a fire in the center of their encampment. A pale waxing moon had risen in the sky. Every once and a while a pale cloud would float past and hide it from view.


    Its been a long time since Ive had army rations, one of the men around the fire told hispanions.


    Me too. I didnt miss them, another replied with a scowl of distaste.


    cknail was sitting in the shadows, and observing them. He could have joined them but didnt feel like it. He was in a foul mood. His master had retired to his tent along with the stupid blond woman.


    At first they had talked for awhile and Saeter had acted all weird. Now, cknail could hear them mating and it was disgusting. Mating among goblins was simple. A female went into heat and then thest male standing got to im her. All the weird talking they were doing was disturbing.


    Forget about the food. What I want is chance with that bountiful blonde we picked up today! a taller ck haired bandit interjected.


    Ha, good luck with that. By Herads rules she belongs to Saeter. He was the second to find her, even if you dont count cknail as the first. No way is he going to give her up now. Shes got her hooks into him good, the sole female bandit in the group responded.


    Grr, why him? Hes an old crusty bastard, the taller bandit asked.


    Ha, he may not normally seem like it these days, but Saeter used to be a famousdy killer. He was a regr master of seduction, a shorter bandit told him.


    Besides, he was clearly in charge and Blondie could see it. Shes not stupid and obviously knows whats what, the ouw woman added.


    Ya, I have a hard time seeing Saeter as ady killer, someone else replied.


    I dont know, if he were a dozen years younger, and didnt scowl so much, I think he would be fairly handsome. Hes certainly got the tall, dark, and handsome thing down, the woman mused.


    Well, damn that bastard anyway, and his stupid pet too. Were supposed to be bandits, not gentleman bloody thieves. He could at least share! the taller bandit eximed.


    He stopped ranting suddenly when he noticed everyone else at the fire was staring slightly behind him. He froze then grimaced regretfully.


    Saeters behind me isnt he, the man groaned.


    Its worse than that, the man to his left told him.


    As if on cue, cknail leaned down over the short mans shoulder and red at him. The bandit froze. Their eyes remained locked for a few seconds, as cknail reached down and took the mans te of food from his hand.


    He stared hard into the other man eyes as if challenging him to say something about it. The man didnt so much as breathe. Smugly, the hobgoblin then walked back over to the shadows and started eating. A chorus of quiet chuckles broke out behind him. cknail felt a little better now.


    As he was eating he saw Red Dog emerge from his tent. He walked over to the fire and started talking quietly to one of the men beside the fire. The man responded and then got up and walked away from the fire and out into the darkness. He was headed across the camp to where the deserters were.


    cknail watched with interest. What was Red Dog doing? The bandit lieutenant was now just standing beside the fire and waiting. The hobgoblin stared out into the darkness that encircled them for any sign of activity. A few minutester, a sudden nging noise off in the night drew his attention.


    Then, without warning, cknail was blinded by a searing white light. It shed into existence across the camp and illuminated the entire area. Its radiance poured over cknail, and he hissed in distress as he tried to shield his eyes from the light that burned them.


    What was this unnatural light? It was unlike anything he had ever seen! Sounds of surprise and confusion rung out from the bandit camp. rmed, the hobgoblin rolled behind the crate he was sitting on and sheltered in the shadows behind it.


    From his hiding spot he heard the sound of approaching footsteps. Still somewhat blinded by the white afterimages that filled his eye sight, a nervous cknail drew his dagger. Just what was going on?

 Written in Blood 8

    Written in Blood 8


    Only the fact that no one was yelling or screaming stopped cknail from panicking. As his eyes adjusted to the light he peeked curiously out from his hiding spot, so that only his eyes and long green nose were visible.


    Within the light he saw two men walking towards Red Dog. One was the man Red Dog had sent out a few minutes ago, and the other was the in looking deserter with the staff. The bright white light that was stinging cknail''s eyes poured forth from the end of the mans weapon.


    The staff didn''t look like a torch to cknail. The light it cast was a very different color from torchlight and much stronger. cknail had also never seen a staff like that before either. Dimly, he remembered some fragments of conversation he had overheard.


    The light must be magic, which made the man a mage. The idea of real magic intrigued cknail. From what he had heard it was very dangerous and exciting stuff.


    When the two men arrived the mages staff slowly dimmed until it wentpletely dark, and only the light from the campfire was left. There was a ruffling noise from Saeters tent as the older man stepped out of his tent and walked over to the mage and Red Dog. The light must have grabbed his attention, it had certainly grabbed everyone elses.


    cknail climbed out of hiding and back onto the crate. There didnt seem to be any immediate danger and Saeter didnt seem rmed. From his perch the hobgoblin stared intently at the staff wielder. He wanted to see some more magic. He didnt know much about it but he was pretty sure it could make things explode and catch fire, which he really wanted to see.


    Meanwhile, Red Dog was giving the mage an indifferent look.


    If you were trying to impress me with that light show then youve failed. Even I know light crystals are the one type every single guild has. Theyre the magical equivalent of dirt. It also seems like a bloody pointless waste of a crystal youll probably never be able to rece, Red Dog said as Saeter walked up beside him. The older man grunted in agreement.


    The mage was an average sized man with short brown hair, and brown eyes. Like all the other deserters he was unshaven and dressed in worn out Elorian military garb. As he listened to Red Dog an amused smile appeared on his face.


    Greetings, now that things have settled down for a little bit let me formally introduce myself. My name is Mahedium, formerbat mage for the Royal Elorian 2nd Infantry Brigade. Im d you called for me. As you can probably imagine Ive some questions I wouldnt mind asking you, he said.


    We have some questions of our own for you first, Red Dog replied sternly.


    Ask away then, Mahedium said, as he turned his palms up in a gesture of openness.


    How and why exactly did a vessel and a mage end up deserting together? Life in the Elorian infantry isnt fun for anyone these days, but mages and vessels are the elite. Theyre treated much better than most. Few of them ever end up deserting, Red Dog asked.


    Ah, that is a perceptive question. Basghus, our former leader, was a very arrogant man. He may have been a vessel but he was stillmon born. He felt he deserved promotion, but with no noble blood it was unlikely to ever happen. That didnt stop him from trying though, and his persistence earned him many enemies. Eventually, he decided he would be better off striking out on his own, the mage answered.


    What about you? Saeter asked.


    My story is somewhat simr actually. I made some enemies among my superiors. So, when I learned of Basghus ns I offered him my services, Mahedium replied.


    Saeter eyed the man, and scowled. He seemed skeptical.


    Your guild suspected you were doing experiments on your own. They were right too, so you ran, he guessed.


    Surprise shed across the mages face for a second, and he twitched slightly. He quickly forced a smile though.


    Ah, yes. I have to say you two are unexpectedly insightful for um ouws. May I ask how you figured it out? he said.


    It wasnt hard. Combat mages arent taught how to actually make crystals. Theyre only taught how to use them inbat. Yet, you were willing to burn a crystal to produce that light earlier. Thats something a mage with limited magic wouldnt do, unless they were an idiot, Saeter exined casually as he shrugged.


    Surely, there must be more to it than that? Mahedium asked.


    You also mentioned having problems with your superiors. Asking the wrong type of question were you? Ive known a fewbat mages, and none of them liked being dependent on the guilds for their magic. Plus, you just seem like the sort who would try to pry into the secrets of the guilds even if it meant putting your own life at risk, Saeter added.


    Mahedium gave a self-depreciating chuckle.


    I see. Yourepletely right. I used to be an apothecary, until I was drafted. During training I was tested for the mage gift and epted into the Fiery Eye guild. Then they shipped me off to the front, and I realized I was nothing but a disposable tool to them. Without connections or money I would never be taught the real secrets of magic, and my ignorance would make me dependent on them for my power, the mage replied bitterly.


    So you asked questions and experimented, Red Dog remarked.


    Yes, and I got results! The forms and processes involved in the creation of mana crystals areplex and tightly held secrets. Every guild has different ones it knows how to make. But, you were right when you said that the light crystal was the exception! The Fiery Eye was not too concerned about information on light crystals leaking. So with luck and a little experimentation I was able to learn to create them! Mahedium dered victoriously.


    And now youre on the run, but at least you can make magical torches, Seater replied sarcastically.


    Thats true for now... but not forever. With my knowledge of how to create light crystals I can experiment and discover other form. Mahedium dered excitedly.


    And blow yourself up, Red Dog said with a roll of his eyes.


    Im aware of the dangers involved, but I have some clues and ideas that should reduce the risk, he replied defensively.


    Sure, as long as you do it well away from me, Red Dog told him dismissively.


    Hmm, I hope Ive answered all your questions. Now if you dont mind I have some of my own? the mage asked.


    Knock yourself out Red Dog told him.


    Mahedium threw an inquisitive nce cknails way. The hobgoblin met his gaze, even though it made him nervous. He was fairly sure the mage couldnt set him on fire with his mind, or at least wouldnt. Saeter wouldnt like it.


    I must admit that I am extremely interested in your hobgoblin. As unusual as it is for mages and vessels to desert I have never even heard of a trained hobgoblin before. He was rather effective earlier, he remarked.


    Saeter smirked with obvious pride. Red Dog rolled his eyes at the other mans behavior.


    Not much to say. I found a goblin then trained it. I just had to beat some sense into it when it became a hob Saeter replied


    If only, Red Dog muttered. The mage gave them both uprehending looks.


    Thats it? he asked Saeter.


    Thats it, Seater answered.


    cknail scowled at his masters words. He remembered things quite differently than that. For one thing he thought he deserved at least some of the credit.


    I see. Well, now that we have gotten to know each other I would like to ask for our weapons to be returned to us, Mahedium told them.


    And why should we do that? Red dog asked with a skeptical frown.


    It was only Basghus who didnt want to join up with Herad. He just dragged the rest of us along with him. We have no reason to turn on you. Just like you said earlier the wilds are a dangerous ce and Mahedium started to exin.


    cknail yawned. He had grown bored with all the talk, and didnt think the mage was going to be doing any more magic. He stood up and decided to get some sleep. He wanted to use the tent he had taken as a trophy as well. It would probably be much nicer than sleeping on the ground.


    As the night progressed everyone eventually drifted off to sleep. When dawn came the deserters camp was busy with activity. Everything that could possibly be moved was being packed away, so it could be transported to Herads base.


    Soon Red Dog, Saeter, and the rest of the bandits were on their way back. With almost double the amount of men they had started off with.


    Herad should be happy when we get back! Or at least as close as she gets, Red Dog proudly told the others. He was standing tall with his chest puffed out. cknail thought it made him look fat.


    They were making their way through the woods and back to the road. The tall shady trees around them were alive with morning bird song. Every member of their group had a backpack stuffed full of supplies and loot, even cknail.


    When cknail stopped for a second to look over a small patch of red mushrooms that had caught his eye a group of deserters passed him by. Most of them ignored him, or shied away from him and tried not to catch his eye. One bandit that was wearing a brown feathered cap gave him a disdainful look.


    Look, its got a sword. Ha, Ill eat my hat if the critter can actually use it, he muttered to the man beside him.


    The other mans eyebrows rose and he gave the speaker a disbelieving look.


    Dont tempt fate, fool, he replied before stepping away.


    cknail ignored them. He was more interested in whether the mushrooms he was looking at were edible. The red color probably meant they were poisonous, but it also made them look very tasty. With a sigh, he decided against eating them. He picked one to show Saeter so he would know forter though.


    The wind shifted and a breeze blew through the trees. Leaves rustled and the smell of healthy growing things surrounded the hobgoblin. However, under the more powerful scents something else lurked, and drew cknail''s attention.


    Instinct took over. He froze and his heart sped up. The sound of its pounding filled his ears. He twitched as he fought a sudden urge to run. Instead he took a quick look around and forced himself to rx.


    He saw nothing lurking nearby among the trees. With no signs of immediate danger evident he started walking up the line and passed the other men to find Saeter.


    Saeter was up ahead talking to Red Dog at the front of the group. Mahedium and some of Red Dog''s men were walking right behind them.


    After another quick nervous look around just to be sure, cknail moved up beside Saeter. He was trying to act calm but his movements were jerky and stiff. He didn''t want to alert anything that was watching that he had detected them.


    Saeter broke off his conversation with Red Dog as the hobgoblin approached. He looked over and gave cknail a puzzled nce. cknail was fidgeting and clearly nervous about something.


    I smell the troll. It''s down wind, being sneaky, cknail whispered to his master.


    Almost immediately he felt kind of stupid. He was fairly sure trolls couldn''t understand human speech so there had been no real reason to whisper.


    Shit, Saeter swore. He grimaced and closed his eyes for a second as he began to think things through.


    What is it? Red Dog asked.


    That troll''s back, and it''s stalking us, Saeter replied darkly.


    Red Dog added a long string of his own curses to Saeter''s. cknail didn''t understand most of them.


    We''ll need to prepare and make sure everyone''s ready, Red Dog said when he had finally stopped swearing.


    If we can make ourselves look like more trouble than we''re worth it might back off without a fight. The trick will be getting ready without tipping it off, Saeter added.


    Red Dog nodded in agreement. He then turned around and called to the group behind him.


    Mahediume up here for a second, he said.


    The mage gave them a curious look as he picked up his pace and walked over to them.


    What do you need? he asked.


    That troll friend of yours is back. I want to know if you''ve got any tricks that might be useful, and don''t think of holding anything back just because you can''t rece it, Red Dog told him.


    The mage flinched fearfully before responding.


    For use against a troll? I have no idea what would work. Theyre hardly my area of expertise. I mean I have um a few heat crystals, and obviously I have light crystals I can use to blind it. I also have a force crystal I''ve been saving, but that''s it, he replied nervously.


    That''s all you got? Youre of the Fiery Eye, and theyre one of the most hardcorebat guilds around, Red Dog remarked with an eyebrow raised doubtfully.


    I wasn''t actually at the front when I took my leave of the army. The Guilds only givebat mages the crystals they think we need, so most of what I have is support spells, Mahedium exined.


    Fine, go for the heat then. Just be damn sure you have a clear shot before you fire. I''ve seen what those things can do to a man, and I don''t want to see it again, Red Dog told him.


    Probably your best bet, Saeter added in agreement.


    Red Dog began carefully giving out orders. As the line of bandits hiked through the woods he called several to him one at a time. When the men returned to their ce in the line they whispered to their nearbypanions.


    While this was happening Mahedium went to work as well. The mage quickly began dissembling his staff in a practiced manner. He reced the white crystal within the staff''s mechanism with a red one, and then made some adjustments that narrowed the staff''s metal head.


    Slowly, the bandit group began to split until it had divided itself into small units. The transformation was gradual but soon every unit had someone watching each direction, and every bandit had a hand ready to draw their weapon.


    Just as the group furthest from the front was forming up there came a scream. cknail whipped around in time to see something explode from the bushes. At first it was nothing but a green blur, but then it smashed through a group of men in the middle of the line and slowed almost to a stop. Men screamed in pain and surprise as the green behemoth roared and sent clumps of earth, broken branches, and bloodied men flying.


    Even while stooped over the troll towered one or two feet over the few men still standing around it. It had bizarrely elongated arms that reached all the way down from its broad hunched shoulders to the ground. Heavy muscles rippled under its greenish grey skin as it spun furiously and whipped its heavy wed fists around to batter and break anyone unlucky enough to get too close to it.


    The trolls head was simr to a hobgoblin''s but with a thick extended lizard like snout. A dirty mane of brown hair grew from the top of its head and down its back. As it attacked it opened its mouth to let out a savage roar, which revealed countless jagged yellow teeth and two massive de like fangs that descended down past its jaw.


    It wasnt the trolls strength or size that rmed cknail though. No, what truly frightened him was the beasts speed. It seemed to jerk and twist as it moved, but it did it so quickly it was almost impossible to keep track of. Instinctively, cknail knew that any attempt to run from the predator would be doomed.


    In a violent frenzy of motion the troll ripped into the men that surrounded it. Its fists smashed them aside like paper dolls and sent them flying. They barely had any time to react or even draw their weapons.


    Then the beast screamed in ted rage as it snatched up a shocked bandit in its ws. It brought the shrieking man up to its mouth, and bit down on him. Its huge fangs sunk into its prey with a wet cracking noise. The man''s chest seemed to just copse in on itself into a bloody ruin.


    With a mocking satisfied hiss and a powerful lunge the troll broke through the scattered and bloodied men around it and charged off into the woods. It used it long arms and knuckles like a second pair of legs as it ripped through the underbrush.


    Suddenly just as the troll was about to disappear there was a hissing noise off to one side of cknail and the air rippled. A wave of heat washed over him and the hobgoblin cringed away. Then there was a sharp crack and the base of a tree near where the troll had been seconds ago exploded into mes.


    Startled, cknail looked over his shoulder to see Mahedium standing frozen in ce. Heat radiated from the metal head of his staff.


    The mage wore a shocked expression and his knuckles were pale and white from gripping his staff so tightly, but he was pointing his weapon in the general direction that troll had gone. Apparently magic could do much more than create light after all, but you still had to aim it properly.


    All in all, the savage onught hadsted but seconds. All the dozens of bandits could do was gape in stunned horror and take in the destruction the troll had wrought around them.


    For a moment the forest was quiet except for the moans of the wounded. Then as the shock dissipated shrill screams of pain and panicked cursing filled the air.


    Half a dozen men the troll has passed byy strewn across the ground or had been dashed against trees. The air was thick with the mingled scent of blood and the putrid stench of the troll.


    Fire and damnation! Fucking trolls. Drakes are worse my ass! Red Dog swore as he stomped off and began shouting orders. He had to yell at the top of his lungs to be heard over everyone else.


    Nervously, cknail stood up from where he had instinctively crouched behind Saeter. His master gave him a hard unamused stare, and the hobgoblin gave him an apologetic smile back.


    Erissa had fallen backwards in shock andnded butt first on the ground where she was shivering in terror. Seater crouched down beside her and began to whisper reassuringly in her ear.


    Red Dog was still shouting, and he had even drawn his sword and started waving it around to get attention. Slowly he managed to get things calmed down and somewhat organized.


    Saeter got up from where he was tending to Erissa and made his way over to Red Dog. The other man was yelling at a small group of bandits. He pointed off in one direction and they jogged over to help the wounded. That left Red Dog standing there by himself and glowering darkly at nothing.


    We have a problem, Saeter told Red Dog.


    Very slowly the bandit lieutenant looked over. Red Dogs face twitched as a mix of emotions warred within him. Finally he settled on an incredibly dark and hostile re which he aimed directly at Saeter.


    I know we have a fucking problem! We have more problems than there are hells right now! Red Dog hissed.


    But you dont know the real problem, Saeter replied calmly.


    Oh, and what might that be? Red Dog asked with a snarl.


    That wasnt normal troll behavior, not even close. That thing was an experienced man eater, with a taste for human flesh. It will be back, repeatedly. Even if we head home it will just follow us, the gray haired older man exined.


    Of course it fucking is! Go y the deserters, she says. It will be easy, she says. She just forgot to mention the bloody huge Slosher, thebat mage, and the man eating troll! I''ve had enough of this. We''re making a break for the base. Then the troll will be Herad''s problem, Red Dog swore.


    cknail liked that n. He was sure he could outrun most the humans without a problem, and it was a man eating troll anyway. Not a goblin eating troll. Yep, his survival was practically guaranteed.


    If we do that we''ll lose a lot of men. The troll might even get you or me, since we can''t predict where it will strike, Seater told him.


    cknail frowned. He didn''t like where this was going.


    You have a better idea, old man? Red Dog asked.


    Yes, I''ll take a seven or eight of our more experienced men and trail the troll back to itsir. We''ll corner it there and finish it off. That will give you and the wounded time to get going, Saeter suggested.


    Dangerous. You would be putting experienced men at risk to save the wounded and rookies. Do you really think you can do it? Red Dog replied skeptically.


    This is what I do, Saeter told him.


    Very well. Good luck then, and may all the gods bless your path, old man, Red Dog replied.


    Saeter nodded and then turned to cknail.


    Come on we have a lot of hard dangerous work ahead of us, Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    cknail sighed. Of course his master didn''t like Red Dogs n, and of course his idea put him right in the most dangerous ce possible. The hobgoblin was beginning to wonder if his master was trying to get himself killed, and take cknail with him.

 Written in Blood 9

    Written in Blood 9


    It only took Saeter a few minutes to round up his pick of the men. None of them looked thrilled at being selected, although one or two agreed that it was necessary.


    All the men Saeter picked were among the most experienced of the bandits and were familiar with the forest, except for Mahedium. The mage made his objections to joining the hunt clear, but in the end he had no choice. Mage or not he was still not even a proper member.


    Before Red Dogs''s group had gotten moving again Saeter led his party after the troll. It was not difficult to spot the beginning of its trail. The troll had simply torn through the forest at full speed while carrying a human body. Branches had been snapped, the earth was torn up, and blood littered the ground.


    Saeter led the way. He didn''t even have to stop and look for signs. He just had to follow the trail of destruction the troll had zed. It was obvious to everyone which way to go.


    cknail followed his master and scanned the surroundings for danger. Saeter seemed sure that the troll was long gone, but that didnt mean the forest was safe.


    cknail thought chasing a troll through the woods was an incredibly stupid idea, even without considering what would happen when you actually caught it.


    The easy to follow path soon ended when the party came across a wide creek that meandered through the woods. Cold water raced and bubbled over a stone filled streambed that was wider than a man was tall.


    Its banks were rocky and mostly clear of nts, except for the asional scraggly sapling or patch of grass. The beast''s trail stopped abruptly at the water''s edge.


    cknail walked across the creek and sniffed the ground. He felt a nervous shiver work its way up his spine when he failed to pick up the troll''s trail again on the other side. The idea that the troll was both smart enough to lose him and could be anywhere now made him nervous. He looked up and scanned the forest for any signs of it.


    The trees here were mostly tall evergreens with long needles instead of leaves. Close to the ground their straight smooth white trunks were mostly bereft of anything but the remains of broken dead branches. Higher up the tops of the trees were green and healthy looking though.


    The ground was rocky enough that in some areas the trees were forced to grow fairly far apart. These spaces were filled by sparse stretches of grass, and the earth was littered with fallen brown pine needles. There was no sign of the troll, and not a lot of ces for something so big to hide.


    Saeter''s boots got wet as he sshed across the creek after cknail. He examined the forest for a few seconds before saying anything.


    Let me guess, you''ve lost the trail? he asked cknail.


    Yes-ss, it''s gone, cknail answered with a frown. Saeter didn''t seem surprised.


    It used the water to hide its scent, and it will be moving more carefully now. It''s probably more worried about another predator stealing its meal than us catching up with it, but the result''s the same, the old scout exined.


    What do we do now? cknail asked his master. He hoped this meant they would turn around and go home now, but deep down he knew better.


    We split into two groups. One goes upstream and the other down. It can''t have gone too far. A whistle should do as signal, Saeter replied.


    He then turned and cast a skeptical gaze over the other bandits who were loitering at the streams far bank.


    I''ll take upstream. Georgius, you will lead the group that goes downstream and you''ll take cknail with you, Saeter told everyone after a brief pause to think.


    Georgius gave Saeter a mildly annoyed look. He was an average sized bandit with short blonde hair, and a jagged scar that stretched back from one corner of his mouth. It looked as if someone had shoved a knife in his mouth and tried to slice his cheek in half. The long scar made it seem like one side of his face was always frowning.


    Alright, whatever Saeter, he replied. It was clear he was insulted by Saeter''s obviousck of faith in his tracking ability.


    Saeter split the group, and cknail followed Georgius as they headed downstream in the opposite direction as Saeter. Mahedium stuck with Saeter. The mage was clearly nervous to be out in the forest, and kept throwing nervous nces at the forest around him.


    Most the bandits walked on one side of the creek or the other. However, cknail had taken off his boots and kept walking through the water barefoot so that he could sniff both sides.


    The cool water felt refreshing on the hobgoblin''s feet as it flowed over his skin. The stones and pebbles at the bottom of the creek were smooth enough that they didnt poke his soles when he stepped on them.


    Even though the water was very shallow except for the asional eddy dug pool, cknail kept an eye out for snapping turtles. He hadnt forgotten that lesson.


    As long as he kept an eye out for the snappers cknail thought the creek was probably a safer ce to be than walking along the bank. If someone was going to stumble into a mimic or spider it wasn''t going to be him.


    Of course it was always possible that Saeter had simply forgotten to tell him about some sort of terrifying beast that lived in streams. That would be just like him.


    Georgius seemed to be doing a good job searching for signs of the troll to cknail. He didn''t know why Saeter had doubted the man''s ability to track. Then again, cknail knew he was far from an expert on tracking by sight.


    The hobgoblin himself hadn''t caught the scent of the troll or human blood yet. He had howevere across quite a few other interesting scents. He had smelled deer, rabbits, harpies, and some other things he couldn''t identify. They must have alle to the creek to get a drink.


    cknail was just about to cross the stream again when he heard a whistle. He looked up but none of the humans seemed to have heard anything. They continued to follow the creek downstream while checking the bush for signs of the troll.


    Georgius, I heard-ss the whistle, cknail yelled to the man, who was on the other side of the creek.


    Georgius turned to look at cknail and then back up the stream. He frowned and seemed to think things over for a second.


    Right, you have those long pointy goblin ears. Let''s get back then. It seems like we''ve gone the wrong way, he replied.


    He then called the other men over and they headed back. After a brief trek upstream they found Saeter standing in the forest a few feet from the water. The rest of the bandits were resting around him.


    Took you long enough. While you were off taking a stroll I found the troll''s trail, Saeter remarked.


    I figured that, Georgius replied dryly.


    Come on let''s get going. I don''t want to be hunting this thing in the dark, Saeter told them.


    I dont want to hunt-ss it at all, cknail muttered to himself.


    He then walked up to where his master was standing and sniffed the ground. Sure enough he could smell the troll. This was definitely where it had left the water. The hobgoblin didn''t see a single visual sign though. He had no idea how Saeter had found it, and before he could ask the gray haired man was forging ahead.


    The troll had headed through the trees and uphill. Pines and a scattering of other scraggly trees grew from a rocky upward slope. Large stones jutted out from the sides of the nearby hills, like cold grey bones from torn flesh.


    The way was steep and difficult because the rocky ground made for treacherous footing. It came loose and crumbled out from under the bandits feet as they tried to make their way up.


    Soon the climb began to take a toll on everyone and they started to grow tired. cknail was the best off. His lightnky build made the journey easier for him. Saeter called for a stop when everyone started to show signs of exhaustion. As they had made their way up the hills the trees had grown thinner and thinner, until mostly only bushes remained.


    From where he had stopped to rest and sit on a rock cknail suddenly heard movement from up above. He hissed in rm and leaped to his feet. A frightening image of the troll jumping down on them from above and massacring them shed through his mind.


    A small shower of rocks rained down on him from the ledge above as he moved. They banged loudly against each other and threw up dust as they fell. As cknail jumped aside to avoid them he got a better look at the ledge they had fallen from.


    He felt a stab of fear in his chest when he noticed a creature staring down at him from there. Tworge dangerous looking curled horns rose from its head and curled back behind its ears. Its body was covered in gray hair and it gazed at the bandits below with narrowed malevolent eyes. It even had a beardlike tuft of hair growing from its chin.


    Baaaah, it growled angrily at the hobgoblin as it reared up onto its back legs in challenge. Clearly it was hungry for human, and goblin flesh.


    It had four hooves like a horse but didnt look quite as stupid, evil, and twisted as one. cknail slowly reached for his de and began to slide it free from its sheath. He intended to strike first and kill it before it could attack them, but Saeter walked up and ced a hand on his shoulder.


    It''s a wild goat, cknail. Rx, if you leave it alone it will leave you alone, Saeter said with a hint of amusement in his voice.


    cknail let his sword slide back into his sheath, but kept his eyes on the beast. It stared back and their eyes met. cknail hissed and the goat let out another growl of its own.


    Then, with what cknail would swear was a condescending look the goat turned and bounded higher up the hill. Its hooves kicked up more rocks and sent them raining down over the bandits as it jumped. Two smaller goats then burst from the bushes nearby and joined therger one, before they all disappeared up the hill together.


    That''s good luck, one of the banditsmented. Rock goats and trolls are supposed to be enemies. Seeing them on a troll hunt is a sign of a god''s blessing."


    There were nods of agreement from most the other men. Personally, cknail doubted any god or spirit would bless someone by sending them an angry goat.


    Alright, enoughzing about. Time to get back to it, Saeter called out a few minutester.


    There were quite a few grunts and sighs as the bandits got back to their feet and continued on up the hill.


    The ground began to level out, and a few more ever green trees appeared. Saeter held up a hand to signal a stop. Up ahead past a grove of trees arge pile of boulders and rocks rose from the ground. cknail noticed arge dark crevice on one side of it. Behind the rocks the forest continued.


    I''m willing to bet good gold that''s where our troll''sir is. The question is whether its in there right now, Saeter whispered.


    Theres only one real way to find out, but before we go in there Id like to at least have a n with a half decent chance of working, Georgius remarked.


    Fair enough, Saeter answered.


    He put his knapsack down on a log and removed several long lengths of cord from it. Then he reached back into the bag and pulled out a bunch of wicked looking barbed steel arrows.


    Well go in all together. Mage boy here will be in the back. Hell be lighting our way and when we see the troll hell turn the light up as high as possible and blind it. With our backs to him and with our eyes more used to the light we should be able to see fine. While the beasts blinded our best archers will shoot it with these arrows, Saeter told them.


    Georgius have him a skeptical look.


    Trolls have hides tougher than good leather and their wounds dont bleed properly, so theyre hard to put down. Arrows, even barbed ones, wont do much, he remarked.


    True, but they dont have to. The arrows will be tied by long ropes to climbing hooks. While the trolls still distracted another few men will find ces in the cave to attach them. Thatll lock it down and prevent it from attacking us. Then when its all tied up well go in for the kill, Saeter exined.


    That soundsplicated and dangerous to me. What if the troll doesnt do what you think it will? someone replied uncertainly.


    Do you have a better n? Saeter asked harshly. No? Then lets get going.


    Saeter handed out the equipment and once they had it all prepared they headed over to the cave.


    Remind me to train you with a bow sometime, Saeter told cknail as they moved.


    All the bandits, except for Saeter, looked nervous. Their skin had gone pale and cknail could tell they had started to sweat more by their scent. Every one of them had drawn their weapons.


    As they approached the dark mouth of the cave cknails sense of smell was overwhelmed by the foul stench of rotten meat and troll body odor. It seeped from the cave so thickly cknail almost thought he could taste it with his skin.


    He gagged, and was quickly joined by several humans. One of them even vomited as he approached the cave mouth, and that did nothing to improve the smell.


    Suddenly the area grew brighter and the first few steps of the cave were stripped of shadows. Mahedium had activated his staff and it zed with pure white light.


    No one entered the cave. cknail threw a questioning look at the man next to him.


    You first, the man whispered.


    No, you, cknail hissed back.


    One of hispanions pushed the man forward. He took a stumbling step but then turned and red at the other man without going further. Georgius sighed and stepped forward.


    Lets get going, he told the reluctant man in front as he poked him with his de.


    Together the two of them took the first few steps into the cave mouth. A few secondster, when neither of them was ripped apart, the other bandits and cknail followed them in.


    A long rough gray rock corridor extended before them and curved out of sight a few dozen feet away. Rows of short stgmites hung from the ceiling. The dirt floor was littered with bones and jagged rocks, but none of the rocks were nearly big enough for a troll to hide behind. It wasnt there. Everyone let out a collective sigh of relief.


    It must be deeper in. Lets go, Saeter whispered.


    The bandits began to slowly and reluctantly move forward. Maybe it was just the heat and vile stench but the cave felt humid and wet to cknail. He began to grow itchy, but he didnt dare scratch himself. That would require use of one of his hands, and for him to lower his guard.


    As they moved deeper underground the air grew warmer and the trolls kills fresher. Blood and gobs of flesh started to appear on the remains scattered all over the floor. cknail and the others had to go out of their way not to step on them. It was an unpleasant distraction from the hobgoblins focus on not getting killed and eaten.


    Up ahead on a small ledge against one wall arge mound of dark wet earth was piled. A small forest of mushrooms grew atop of it. Crawling between the stems and colorful mushroom cups were the shiny forms of harvesters. They were apparently moremon out here in the wild than in the sewers, where men trained goblins to remove them.


    The mages radiant staff almost caused them to glow as their carapaces split the light and reflected it back in a rainbow of colors. The mouse sized bugs were busy carrying dirt and other less pleasant things around. Every once awhile one would appear from, or disappear into, small holes in the wall.


    As they advanced through the twisted rock tunnel the hobgoblin saw several other harvester farms where the bugs were growing their mushrooms. They seemed to be thriving in the trollsir where there was abundant food, and the beast scared other animals away.


    cknails thoughts were suddenly interrupted by a loud sinister growl that echoed through the cave. The walls of the cavern almost seemed to vibrate as the sound washed over them. The man beside cknail stiffened in fear. The hobgoblin himself jumped as he felt a hand against his back.


    He risked a quick look back to see that it was Saeters. His master was giving him a disapproving look, and cknail realized he had been unconsciously backing up. The hobgoblin gave his master a nervous smile then sighed and took a few, very small, steps forward.


    The previous growl from deeper in the cave was joined by a deep thundering roar. It was loud enough that it stung cknails ears. Then an explosion of footsteps was heard from around the corner as the troll charged into view, and right at the bandits.


    The charging massive beasts eyes zed with hate and mindless hunger, as it regarded the small weak creatures that had dared intrude upon its home. It opened its mouth to reveal jagged yellow teeth and the full length of its humongous fangs. Its dripping jaws seemed to grow everrger and fill cknails vision as the green juggernaut descended upon them.

 Written in Blood 10

    Written in Blood 10


    Oh shit, someone mumbled in horror.


    Before anyone could react the troll had already closed over half the distance between it and the bandits. Any second now it would tear through them like a sharp knife through cloth, but with a lot more blood flying everywhere.


    Then Mahedium unleashed his magic, and the cavern was drowned in light. It was so bright the edges of cknails vision whitened until they seemed foggy.


    The effect on the troll was impressive. It screamed horribly, as it brought its ws up to shield its face. It tried to continue its charge, but tripped over arge rock and then smashed into one of the cavern walls. Rocks were sent flying through the air and the entire cave seemed to shudder from the impact.


    Most of the bandits were still too terrified or stunned to move, but not Saeter.


    Attack now, and stick to the n! he yelled as he shot an arrow into one of the trolls legs.


    At his mastersmand cknail burst into a sprint and ran past the fallen troll and deeper into the cave. The arrow Saeter had shot was tied to a climbing hook in his hand. By this point it was clear to the hobgoblin that his survival depended on the n working.


    The troll didnt stay down long. Hissing and growling, it pulled itself to its feet. The green hairy behemoth seemed to fill the cave and tower over the humans as it rose.


    Off to one side cknail spotted a solid looking rock that protruded from the floor. He grabbed it and slid to a stop. Working quickly he pulled the rope tight, wrapped it around the rock a few times, and then attached the hook.


    By this time Saeters men had sprung into action. The other archers had started to lose their arrows, and Saeter was lining up his second shot. Other bandits were busy finding ces to hook lines. Several ropes already led from the troll to the floor or walls.


    To keep the beast distracted three bandits moved in with swords and threatened it, but they kept well out of reach of the trolls deadly ws. The blinded and enraged troll swiped at them as it stumbled forward, but they managed to avoid its distracted strikes.


    As new arrows hit their marks the troll slowed and began to thrash and pull on the lines that entrapped it. More arrows sunk into its hide every second, but it would take far more than a few hooks and ropes to hold its massive bulk.


    cknail was the only individual who had managed to make it past the troll. The other bandits who were supposed to have joined him had all frozen in fear until it was toote. This meant most the lines only stopped the troll from moving backwards towards the hobgoblin. cknail was d to see that this didnt seem to be a priority for the troll; it seemed determined to reach the humans in front of it.


    To prevent that from happening several of the bandits began tossing lines past the troll and over to the hobgoblin. cknail rushed around to find solid ces to attach them.


    Saeter and the others had to retreat several times in order to keep the troll from reaching them. Several lines broke or were ripped free by the beast as it pressed its furious assault forward.


    Eventually though, the troll ground to a halt as the lines cknail was securing started to arrest its movement. Blinded and confused, it roared in pained frustration. The archers werent taking any chances though, and they didnt let up their barrage until they has used up every arrow.


    I wish we had some proper spears. Swords are really not the tool for this, Saeter swore as he discarded his bow and drew his de.


    The other bandits did the same and began to encircle the troll. cknail unsheathed his own sword but decided to stay back and out of the way, lest he get in the way.


    The beast itself growled and stared menacingly at its assants, but it didnt make anyrge movements. Every time it did more than sway slightly several lines would go tight and pull painfully on the steel arrows embedded in its flesh.


    Dont try and get too close. Start on its arms and work your way in, Saeter warned everyone.


    With that said the men slipped around the ropes that crisscrossed the cave and descended on the entrapped troll from every side. The beast screamed and shuddered as they began to hack at it from every direction at once. It couldnt even move enough to avoid most the attacks they rained down on it.


    cknail was surprised at how little blood was visible, even as the troll was cut again and again. Its wounds seemed to fill with some sort of thick yellowish green fluid as soon as they were made.


    The bandits continued their attack relentlessly. First the screaming beasts arms went limp and useless, and then it sagged and dropped to its knees.


    Georgius moved in to deliver a powerful two handed swing to the trolls exposed neck. The troll saw himing and hissed defiantly.


    cknail didnt like the look of the raw hatred he saw in its eyes; it reminded him of the depths of his own berserk rage. Before he could yell a warning, the crippled troll lurched and thenunched itself forward.


    Arrows were ripped out of the green giants hide and lines snapped as the trolls head shot forward and smashed into the unprepared Georgius. The impact of the headbutt sent him flying across the cave until he crashed into the wall. There was a loud smacking sound and then Georgius fell limply to the ground, revealing a bloody stain on the cavern wall behind him. He didnt get back up.


    With onest half hearted growl the troll then staggered and copsed onto the ground. Its fall caused a loud thud and sent a wave of dust and grime through the cave. This forced cknail and several other bandits to shield their eyes for a second until the dust had blown past.


    Its dead. Someone check on Georgius, Saeter said after examining the troll for a few moments.


    What if its faking it? someone asked nervously.


    Trolls dont y dead, Saeter replied with a condescending sneer.


    With that said there was a collective sigh of relief, and the cave darkened as Mahedium dimmed the light of his staff.


    cknail cautiously walked up to the dead troll. He poked one of its big green feet a few times, and then rxed when nothing happened. Moving closer, he examined the beast. It really was somewhat simr to a hobgoblin, but bigger and much uglier. It obviously had none of the charm and intelligence he had.


    With a smug smirk cknail scrambled up onto the huge corpse, and managed to stand tall on top of it. He wondered how many hobgoblins had ever in trolls, probably none. That would make him the first ever!


    The greatest hobgoblin-ss ever! he bragged to himself triumphantly from his perch.


    The hobgoblin heard a quiet chuckle and turned around to see Saeter smiling at him. His sudden movement caused the corpse to shift under him, and cknail was sent sprawling to the ground.


    The cave was now filled with chuckles as some of the other bandits couldnt help butugh. The thrill of victory had made cknail too giddy and light headed to be insulted. He just smiled back, and took note of who was chuckling the hardest forter.


    Things quickly sobered up though. The bandit that checked on Georgius pronounced him dead. His skull had been cracked open and his back was broken. They built the fallen ouw a rock cairn outside using loose rocks from the cave. Then after a quick moment of silence they left him there and moved on. Theirs was a profession where death wasmonce.


    A quick exploration of the cave had revealed nothing but some trinkets and a few coins found on some of the trolls victims. cknail imed these; no one else wanted to dig through the grisly remains to get them.


    The cave went deeper than anyone was willing to explore. The trollsir ended but there was a small lightless side passage. The passage started with a steep drop so deep even Mahediums staff couldnt pierce the darkness of its depths. All his white light revealed was the sharp rocks that made up the sides of the shaft itself. When a cautious cknail started sniffing around it Saeter stopped him.


    Careful, cknail dont get too close, Saeter warned him while he warily observed the opening. Unless Im very mistaken that leads down into the dark roads, and you really dont want to go down there. Its a strange ce full of stranger beasts, and its very easy to get trapped down there,


    Its a doorway to the endless hells, cknail heard one bandit mutter.


    Carefully, the hobgoblin backed away from passages mouth. Saeters words had struck a chord with him. He still hadnt gotten used to being trapped in the forest with all the terrible things that lived there, and these dark roads didnt sound any better.


    Saeter then had everyone pull out of the cavern. They were all exhausted, but no one wanted to spend another night out in the forest. So, after a brief discussion they decided to try and meet up with Red Dog. Since they had no wounded Saeter thought they would be able to catch up.


    Between the fast pace they set and the fact that it was faster moving downhill, they managed to rejoin the rest of the bandits halfway down the road back to Herads base.


    Red Dog was d to see them return, and to hear news of the trolls death. If Saeter had failed not only would he have an angry troll to deal with but an angry Herad as well. Also in the North more numbers were always wee; the roads were far from safe. It was entirely possible another troll could show up, or something worse.


    All together the old hands, new recruits, and former deserters arrived back at the camp before dusk. Nothing of note happened and no one else got killed. Some of the deserters seemed unsure of the reception they would receive, but everyone was still d to have reached safety.


    Saeter looked a little hesitant to enter the camp though. He kept throwing looks back at Erissa, who had been staying close to him.


    When everyone else began entering the camp Saeter held himself back; and stayed on the road. He was scanning the entrance to the camp as if looking for something.


    What are you doing, Saeter? Red Dog yelled back at him.


    Nothing, be there in a second, Saeter replied.


    He then whispered something to Erissa, and began pulling her over to a group of bandits who were loitering down the road.


    Efra, you owe me a favor, he called out to one of them.


    A bald woman with squinty eyes looked up as he spoke. She frowned at Saeter as he walked over.


    Whats this about, Saeter? You may have pulled me out of the way of that mimic, but that dont mean you own me, she replied suspiciously.


    Youre heading to town right? he asked her.


    Yep, in a bit anyway. Why? she replied.


    I want you to take this woman with you. Shes my spoils, and I want to make sure she gets to Riverdown unmolested, her told her.


    Why cant you take her? Efra asked uncertainly.


    I just got back, and I have to report to Herad, he exined.


    Wait a second, Saeter. Ive been walking all day. Why cant I rest here overnight, and then you can take me back yourself? Erissa asked the old scout as she moved closer and hugged his arm to her chest.


    Saeter threw Erissa a distracted look, before turning back to the other woman. Efra looked confused. She obviously didnt understand what he was thinking, and cknail didnt either.


    If thats what you want, then I guess I owe you that much, Efra told him.


    It is, just make sure she gets there safely, Saeter replied.


    Shell get there if I do. I cant do more than that, Efra said with shrug.


    Saeter, why are you trying to get rid of me so suddenly? Erissa asked with a bewildered expression.


    Now Erissa, this is for your own good. Do you really want to stay out here when you could be getting back to safety? he asked her


    Well no she started to say, but cknails master cut her off.


    Good, stay here and stick close to Efra. Shell get you there in one piece. I have to go report in now, but it was a pleasure, Saeter told her before spinning around and walking swiftly away.


    The attractive woman could only gape in astonishment as her lover left her behind so suddenly. cknail didnt know what was going on, and he didnt really care. He just followed Saeter like always.


    When they caught up to Red Dog and the rest of the party they were standing before Herad. She must have had word of theiring, and wanted to show off, because the bandit chieftain was at her most intimidating. Saeter and cknail quietly stepped up beside Red Dog.


    Herads cold dark eyes gazed malevolently out from under her short dark hair as they swept over the deserters. They cringed under her attention, except for Mahedium who seemed rxed and unworried. Herads eyes lingered on the mage and his staff for a few seconds before she moved on. She looked like she was trying to choose which one of them to make an example of, or someone to make a meal of.


    She was dressed in her usual dark leathers, and a ck cloak was draped over her shoulders. Even more knives than usual were holstered about her person, and her long sword was sheathed at her hip. She sneered as she addressed them.


    These are the fools that thought they could set themselves up in my territory? she asked Red Dog.


    Yes boss, this is them. There used to be a few more of them though, he answered.


    If they were anything like these scum they werent much of a loss anyway, she told him.


    Well, their boss was a Vessel, but also an arrogant prick. With you around he would have just been a waste of elixir anyway, Red Dog replied.


    I see, Herad said as she turned away from the deserters and gave Red Dog a curious look, before facing the deserters again.


    It seems you scum are in luck. Were currently in need of some new grunts; otherwise I would normally just have useless shits like you killed. Instead, youre now the lowest of myckeys. Now swear obedience to me and then well see if you survive the month, she told her new recruits.


    Herad then had each of them take a simple oath of obedience. When that was done she had one of her men take the recruits away for inspection and billeting. Her eyes flickered over Mahedium again as she watched them leave.


    When they were out of sight she turned back to Red Dog and Saeter.


    Report, now. How did you two manage to run into both a Vessel and abat mage she ordered them usingly.


    Saeter scowled at her tone of voice, and Red Dog winced.


    They were both just part of the deserters you sent us after, Red Dog exined.


    How exactly did you manage to deal with the Vessel, she asked.


    That was when cknail saw his chance. He stood up tall and pointed to himself. He was so excited he was almost bouncing. Now it was finally his chance to impress Herad.


    I did it! I killed the big leader man. I scared the other men so badly they gave up! Was all me, cknail bragged loudly to the chieftain.


    Helped kill the troll too, by doing what master told me, the hobgoblin added as an afterthought.


    Herad frowned at him, then turned to Saeter and gave him a questioning look. She clearly didnt believe the hobgoblin. It was Red Dog who answered though.


    Its sorta true boss, he told her reluctantly.


    Red Dog then began to give a detailed report of their mission. Despite herself when he had finished Herad looked somewhat impressed.


    Well you two certainly earned your pay this time. Especially that hobgoblin of yours Saeter, she remarked.


    The hobgoblin was confused by her choice of words and frowned. Pay was those shiny things a lot of the tribe had right?


    I dont get paid, cknail muttered.


    His reaction caused Herad tough at him.


    I suppose you dont, but thats fixed easily enough. From now on youll get paid a grunts share of the profits. Oh and cknail, since you call Saeter master you can call me mistress, she told him with an arrogant smile.


    Yes, mistress, cknail replied as he lowered his eyes and assumed a submissive posture.


    Saeter looked surprised. It was unlike Herad to voluntarily part with money. Red Dog sighed, but it was a resigned sound instead of an argumentative one.


    cknail was happy at the praise but still more than a little confused. He liked coins but wasnt sure what he was going to do with more of them. He already had burrowed or picked up quite a few of them, and squirreled them away in various hiding spots with the rest of his shiny things.


    Herad then dismissed them and they headed off to their respective campsites. Saeter had a thoughtful look on his face.


    I suppose if youre drawing pay now then youre a full member of the band, and not my servant anymore cknail, he told the hobgoblin.


    He is at that, Red Dog muttered.


    cknail felt a mix of emotions suddenly rise up into his chest. It felt a bit like gas.


    He had done it! Herad had epted him as a member of her tribe. Apparently that was what getting paid meant.


    Coins were obviously some sort of measure of status among humans. cknail was going to have to make sure he hid his away carefully, somewhere no one would ever find them.


    On the other hand his recent rise in the tribe seemed like it was going to change his rtionship with his master. The thought made him ufortable. The nervous hobgoblin turned to his master.


    I am always-ss your servant, cknail told Saeter.


    Not anymore. Now youre my subordinate. Dont worry its much the same, just more work, Saeter told cknail.


    cknail blinked. He wasnt sure if his master was being serious. Before he could ask his master anything though Red Dog suddenly spoke up and interrupted their conversation.


    Ill see you two around. No offense cknail but Ive had enough of trolls, hobgoblins, and whatever for quite a while. Yep, Im looking forward to some uneventful rest away from every sort of forest critter imaginable, he said as he started to walk away from them and towards his tent.


    Before he got more than a few feet away there was a rustling sound from a nearby tent. As everyone looked over at it a goblin burst out with dagger in his hand. It ran out in front of them, stopping only for a second when it saw cknail. Its eyes went wide and it dropped the dagger. It then scampered off behind another tent and out of sight.


    No one said anything. Secondster, a worried looking Varhs ran up to them. The young scout, who had helped Saeter with cknail''s training, was about to say something when he saw the dagger on the ground. After picking it up he turned to them.


    Did you see which way my goblin Scamp went? he asked them.


    Red Dog was twitching. He stared at Varhs with narrowed eyes and pursed lips. His face was growing redder by the second.


    Before Red Dog could say anything Saeter turned stiffly around and immediately began walking away. He clearly had decided he had somewhere else to be. After a few seconds cknail followed him.


    There was a goblin running around his camp! This was his territory. Varhs should have asked him before bringing in a goblin. He would have to show both the goblin and Varhs who was in chargeter. Right now though, sleeping sounded like a good n. He had been walking a lottely.


    The tired Saeter and cknail immediately headed back to their campsite. cknail was already scheming about how to capture the other goblin and make sure it knew whose territory this was. When they got to their campsite they were surprised to see a second tent set up beside Saeters. cknail had yet to unpack the one he had won from the deserters.


    Oh hey, youre back, a cheerful voice called out to them. They looked over to see Khita approaching them.


    Whose tent is that? Saeter asked her suspiciously.


    Its mine. Vorscha said she wanted some privacy with Geralhd, so she got me a tent of my own and told me to set it up here, Khita replied happily.


    Saeter groaned, and cknail hissed. Yes, when he woke tomorrow up he would definitely have to do something about all the annoying little things running around the camp.


    [th_092_.gif] You now feel an uncontroble urge to ratethis story!If you don''t have an ount you will make one here.

 Interlude: The Doom of Couroulis

    Interlude: The Doom of Couroulis


    The young man shivered as an arctic gust blew in over the city walls and mmed into him. He pulled his heavy coat tighter in an attempt to keep the cold at bay, as snow swirled through the air around him.


    As the wind died down around him the city beyond was revealed. Stone and wooden buildings lined the snow filled street that he was trudging down. Warm light leaked out from cracks in the doors and shutters of the nearby homes illuminating the surroundings as the sun set in the cloudy sky overhead.


    Most of the inhabitants of the city had long ago taken shelter inside from the cold night. They were now undoubtedly huddled close to the tame mes of their household fireces. The man grumbled as he pictured it. He hoped he would soon be sitting down beside a cozy fire as well.


    After shuffling through the snow and wind for several minutes the relieved young man found himself standing outside his destination, a tall well maintained two story home. It was located in the merchant''s quarter, and while it wasn''t quite a mansion the owner was obviously well to do.


    Wasting no time, he walked off the street and over to the doorway to announce himself. He meant to knock politely, but instead his fist pounded against the door loudly. He really wanted out of the miserable cold; his fingers had started to burn at the tips.


    Nothing happened for a few seconds. The man shivered and rubbed his hands together for warmth. Then the door opened and bathed the man and the path behind him in bright light. The visitor peered though the blinding glow to see that a tall well dressed man had opened the door for him.


    Jerack, by the gods man! Come on in and out of the weather. You must be absolutely freezing, the master of the house eximed.


    After quickly knocking some of the snow off of his cloak Jerack stepped eagerly inside. The reception room of the house was lit by a steady oilmp on a small table and decorated by various portraits and paintings. After a quick nce at his guest and after taking in Jerack''s sorry state, the wealthy man frowned and turned to look down the hallway.


    Aness, please get one of the servants to put some hot tea on for Jerack. The young fool walked here and is half frozen to death, he yelled before turning back to his guest.


    Thank you, uncle Reighur. It''s brutal out there. I almost thought I wasn''t going to make it, the young man replied gratefully.


    His uncle gave him a questioning look and shook his head in exasperation.


    I honestly thought you''d be staying home tonight. I didn''t expect you to have to brave the elements when I invited you over. We could have always done this another time, Reighur told his nephew.


    Jerack looked a little embarrassed as he hung his coat and cloak on the stand by the door.


    Oh well, it wasn''t that bad out. Every real Coroulian can take a little ice and snow. Otherwise they would have moved south or back across the ocean to the Homnds, Jerack joked.


    Be that as it may, it was still a somewhat foolish thing to do, his uncle replied. Well, you''re here now so let''s get you somewhere warmer while we talk. The library firece is lit. Follow me.


    As Reighur led his guest down the hallway towards the library. Jerack started feeling warmer. They arrived in the library and Reighur pointed him towards arge cushioned chair. Jerack sat down and his uncle took the seat opposite of him.


    There was a small ornate table between them, and the fire ce zed cheerfully to his left. The wood within crackled as the mes consumed it, and a faint smell of smoke filled the air.


    As Jerack was making himselffortable and enjoying the heat, a young maid walked into the room with a porcin teapot and two cups on a silver tray. She smoothly ced the tray on the table and poured him and his uncle a cup of tea, before curtsying and walking away.


    Both Reighur and Jerack took a sip. Jerack shivered onest time as the heat from the warm liquid and the fire drove thest of the chill from his bones.


    So, your father tells me you want to join the guard. Why the sudden decision? Reighur asked his nephew politely.


    Jerack frowned in response. He didn''t think it was a sudden decision at all.


    Well, you know what''s going on in the world right now better than I do, uncle, Jerack stated as his uncle nodded. Teshura and Hulgaron have been at war for a while now, and while they are pretty far to the south it seems more than likely that Eloria and Deveshur will start fighting soon as well. If that happens we wont be able to stay out of the fighting. It seems like we''re going to need soldiers very soon.


    His uncle raised an eyebrow and disyed a questioning expression.


    So you want to join the Elorian army? Reighur asked tentatively, but Jerack shook his head vehemently in response.


    No, uncle; Im not a fool. I''ve heard you, father, and others talking. The king of Eloria may think he owns Coroulis but no one here wants to die for him. Half the city is from Deveshur, Jerack exined.


    His uncle sighed before responding. He seemed reluctant to speak but he spoke up anyway.


    I see you''ve put quite a bit of thought into this. So what do you think is going to happen then? the older man asked.


    Coroulis is the greatest city of the North. It''s barely garrisoned, pays pretty much no taxes, and is run by the city council. I know you and father think that the city will break away before getting caught up in a southern war, and I think you''re right. If it does separate then it will pull the rest of the North with it into a new country. I think that country will need an army and someone in the Coroulian guard would be well ced to rise when that army is formed, Jerack continued passionately.


    His uncle looked thoughtful as he considered his nephews words.


    You''re notpletely wrong, his uncle replied after several drawn out seconds. "Very well, I will help you get into the guard. I think that yours is not a bad n.


    Jerack eyes opened in surprise. He had not expected his uncle to support him. His father had been set against it.


    Thank you, uncle. By the gods I swear I will return the favor someday! Jerack eximed excitedly as his uncle chuckled.


    No need to be so melodramatic, Jerack. I know your father disapproves of how much time you spend outside, instead of working with him. The gods know it''s dangerous outside the walls, but you should do what you want with your life. That''s how I became a merchant after all, Reighur told Jerack.


    After that both of them made small talk and discussed thetest events. Soon however the tea had grown cold, the fire had burned down, and they both grew tired. Jerack yawned as fatigue caught up with him.


    Well, I really should be getting back. Thank you for having me over, and again thank you so much for your support, Jerack said.


    His uncle looked surprised at the younger man''s words. His tea cup nked lightly against his te as he set it down.


    Nonsense, nephew; I won''t have you going back out in such terrible weather at this time of night. You will stay over tonight and head back tomorrow morning. I will have the servants prepare a room for you, Reighur insisted.


    Jerack thought about it. He didn''t want his father to worry about him, but at this time of night he was undoubtedly already in bed. As long as headed home at dawn before his father awoke it shouldn''t be a problem.


    Very well. Thank you again, uncle, Jerack answered.


    Both the men then got up and shook hands as they said goodnight. Reighur called for a servant to take Jerack to his chamber and the young man went to bed. His earlier walk must have tired him out more than he knew because he was asleep almost before he hit the sheets.


    Jerack was awoken by the nging of bells early the next morning. That wasn''t right. What time was it? Groggily he got to his feet and opened the window''s shutters.


    Outside, the dawn sun was still rising over the snow covered city and had yet to banish thest of the night''s darkness. Why were the city bells ringing so early? It made no sense. With a yawn, Jerack quickly got dressed and walked out into the halls.


    He didn''t see anyone around so he marched to the kitchen. There several servants were chatting excitedly amongst themselves. Most looked either very tired or very worried.


    What''s going on? he asked loudly and authoritatively as he entered the room.


    He hoped someone here could exin things. A sense of unease had been slowly building within him ever since he had woken up and he didn''t know why.


    All the servants turned to him as he spoke. They cast each other nervous nces before one answered.


    We don''t know, sir. All we know is the city bells are ringing and Marial says it''s the call to arms. Although, the rest of us aren''t so sure, one older woman answered hesitantly. Jerack thought she was his uncle''s cook.


    Was it an attack? That made no sense. Who would or even could attack them in the dead of winter? Even traders stopped arriving for the most part when the roads filled with snow.. .


    Are my uncle and aunt awake? Jerack asked as he frowned.


    We were just deciding whether to wake them, sir, the woman answered nervously.


    Do so, and tell them I''m heading out to find out what''s going on and should be back soon with some answers, Jerackmanded them.


    The young man then turned around and swiftly made for the entrance. His hurried footsteps caused the wooden floor to creak beneath him.


    Wrapping his coat tightly around himself, he stepped out the front door and back into the frigid white city streets. With a sigh he then started stomping through the snow drifts towards the road.


    His breath was white and visible in the cold air, but at least the morning sun warmed him a little and the wind had died down.


    The streets were mostly deserted, as was normal for this early in the morning. However, a small group of people were huddled together in a nearby sheltered doorway. They looked apprehensive and uneasy to Jerack.


    He was just about to head over to them, when he heard the clutter of horseshoes on stone. Looking over he saw riders wearing guard uniformsing down the street. The guardsmen didn''t seem to be slowing as they approached, so Jerack called out to them.


    Why are the bells ringing? What''s going on? he yelled as loudly as he could.


    The riders blew past him as they raced toward their destination, but one turned towards Jerack and quickly replied.


    There''s a drake lose in the city. It wasst seen around Lowpoint. Please return to your homes citizens, the guardsman yelled back before he and his fellow riders disappeared down the road. They left nothing but a long cloud of swirling snow behind them.


    A drake! That made no sense; everyone knew they went underground into the Deeps for the winter. Wait, had the guard said Lowpoint? That was where his father''s house was! The bells probably wouldn''t have woken him; he had always been a sound sleeper.


    Jerack took off down the street towards his home. As he ran the snow crunched under his feet, and the quality of the buildings around him dropped. They became smaller and less ornate, with more wood and less stone or brick, as he approached workman''s area of the city where his father lived.


    He passed several small groups of talking people as he ran. One group even called out to him, but he ignored them as he hurried home. He had no time for them; he had to make sure his father was safe!


    As he turned the corner towards Lowpoint, a sudden terrible roar sted through the city and overwhelmed him. He stumbled in surprise and fright as the deep scream cascaded over him. Even his bones seemed to shake for a second.


    Jerack had heard the howl of a drake before and seen their tracks out in the forest but he had never seen one face to face. Few people had and lived.


    With a shiver of dread he realized that this drake sounded very close and veryrge. He paused in his run. Did he really want to head towards the beast? He had no choice though; he had get his father to safety.


    He was startled by a unexpected bang. The sound of buildings being torn apart and copsing rubble exploded over him. Screams of horror and pain quickly followed.


    With a start Jerack realized people were dying. The very idea shocked him; he had never been around much violence. Then an unexpected ssh of color up against a nearby wall caught his eye.


    It was a shredded corpse. Its blue guardsman uniform and the crimson blood dripping from its ripped open stomach were the source of the vivid colors that had attracted his attention.


    Jerack froze and gagged. Desperately he tried not to vomit. Looking about he spotted another discarded human body and then another. His eyes went wide with fear and he choked painfully as he spewed vomit onto the snow at his feet uncontrobly.


    What was going on here? The terrible scene before him made no sense. He felt sick. Even arge drake shouldn''t be this big of a problem for the guards, and it certainly shouldn''t be crushing buildings! Jerack began to twitch and go pale as he panicked. He shouldn''t be here!


    Suddenly, he heard more screams from rmingly close by. His head jerked to the right to see a small group of people run past him. They were a man and a woman clutching a small child to her breast; a family.


    The terror on their faces was in and struck Jerack hard, drawing out his own fear. They weren''t even dressed for the weather. Something dreadful must have driven them from their home without giving them any time to n whatsoever. He couldn''t even imagine...


    Jerack was terrified now. He wanted to continue on, but he couldn''t take another step forward no matter how hard he tried. He was frozen in fear, and it shamed him deeply.


    A sudden gust whipped past and blew snow into the air all around him. He felt goose bumps rise on his skin as the temperature plummeted.


    From somewhere out in the white haze that had risen around him a explosive cracking sound erupted. Blindly, Jerack blindly spun around in fright as his heart tried to leap out of his chest. Horror awaited him as the wind died down.


    For a second he didn''t believe his eyes. Crouched on the still crumbling remains of a casually demolished house sat the drake. The size of its grey scaled bulk defied belief. Surely it couldn''t be real. It had to be a dream... a nightmare.


    The beast dwarfed some of the homes around it. It bnced upon the rubble with four stocky legs that ended in curled ws meant for catching and ripping open prey.


    Its long thin tail swished behind it, throwing thick white clouds of snow up into the air. Its head sat upon a thick neck and bore a blue feathered crest. A line of blue feathers also ran down its back and stuck out from the back of its knees and the end of its tail.


    However it was the dreadful beast''s lizard like head that Jerack couldn''t tear his gaze away from. The humongous drake calmly surveyed its surroundings with intelligent hungry yellow eyes. It seemed totally unconcerned that it was currently right in the middle of a human city.


    Long sharp teeth shed and blood dripped from its maw as it chewed itstest meal, the family that had just run past. It must have burst through the building and snatched them up in one lightning quick snap of its jaws. They hadn''t had a chance.


    Blood was sttered across the once pure snow where they had been just seconds ago, and stained bits of cloth fluttered away in the wind. If there had been anything left in Jerack''s stomach he would have thrown up again. As it was he could only stand there and shudder uncontrobly with his eyes wide in horror.


    One yellow eye of the beast flickered and Jerack thought it focused on him for a second. The beast continued leisurely chewing but Jerack had no doubt whatsoever that it was aware of him. It simply wasn''t in a hurry, or maybe he didn''t look that appetizing.


    Time seemed to have gone still for Jerack, or maybe it was stuck in an endless twisted loop. There was only the fluttering snow and the gnashing of the drake''s teeth, over and over again; every bite and chomping sound brought Jerack one step closer to losing his mind. It wore on him, like a countdown to his own demise spoken in anguage he didn''t understand. He was going to die.


    Then the beast swallowed thest of its grizzly meal and to Jerack''s surprise looked away down another street. Was it ying with him? Surely it wouldn''t just leave him there. A buzzing sound built up in his ears. He didn''t register it at first but as soon as he realized it was there a hail of arrows tore down from the sky upon the drake.


    The beast hunched its shoulders and turned its face from the unexpected barrage. The projectiles bounced and shattered on its grey scaly head. It was uninjured but as it raised its head Jerack thought it looked infuriated. The beast roared again and the sound of its displeasure tore through the city sting away all other lesser sounds.


    Run you sted idiot! Jerack heard someone yell from behind him.


    It took a second for him to recognize the sound asnguage, and another to move his stiff body and look for the source. He turned to see a squad of guardsmen. The sergeant in front was mounted on a horse and bore a long hunting spear. He was motioning for Jerack to run.


    Jerack cast a terrified look back at the beast; he was too afraid to move while it was still there. The beast however seemed to be descending from its perch among the rubble, and was moving away from him towards the source of the arrows.


    Jerack bolted. He didn''t even think about it, he just did it. His feet carried him. Without looking back he rushed towards the soldiers. Please don''t let it be following me! Please gods I beg you!


    As he reached the soldiers in their blue uniforms the sergeant spoke again.


    Keep running,d! Head for the fort, he told Jerack before motioning to his men and leading them after the beast.


    Doing as he was told, Jerack ran past them. He scampered desperately through the snow towards the end of the street.


    Surely he was safe now? The guards were here and they had mounts and spears for hunting drakes. The beasts were far from invincible, even unusuallyrge ones.


    Jerack ran over to a barrel someone had ced up against a house and threw himself behind it. There he began to suck down air as he tried to catch his breath. When his lungs no longer felt like they were burning and the dark terror that had clouded his mind begun to die down he risked a look out from his hiding spot.


    Dozens of guardsmen had the drake surrounded. Several groups with swords and spears circled it, working in unison to keep it at bay. Every time it tried to go after one group then archers hidden among the buildings would distract it with a rain of arrows.


    The drake was hissing and growling as it twisted and turned madly in an attempt to catch its tormentors, but they hadn''t hurt it yet. Its hide remained unbreached.


    Suddenly one man got too close and the drakeshed out viciously. Its teeth closed down on the unlucky man and with a jerk of its neck it sent his corpse sailing through the air and over a building in a rain of blood.


    The sergeant didn''t waste the opportunity his man''s death had created. He lowered his spear and spurred his horse into a charge at the beast''s unprotected nk.


    Jerack felt his heart soar. He was seeing something out of a story! He wanted to join the guard more than ever now. He wanted to be like the sergeant, fearless and skilled.


    The mounted officer''s horseunched itself forward and the tter of horse hooves echoed through the streets. As he approached the drake it turned towards him. Jerack knew that was alright; its head was even more of target than its nk. A good strike there would bring it down instantly!


    Jerack watched with anticipation as the twobatants closed. Surely the guardsman would be victorious.


    Suddenly, out of the corner of his eye Jerack noticed something strange. An odd breeze had begun to blow around the drake. It circled it like a slow whirlwind. The guardsmen closest to the beast begun to falter and retreat; some pulled back while others simply copsed onto the ground and curled up in the snow.


    With what seemed like a vicious smile, the great grey drake then opened its mouth and roared towards the charging guardsman.


    Its breath picked up the snow and blew it forward. What was it doing? Opening its mouth just made it an even better target. What was going on? Jerack felt his earlier dread creep back up his spine. Something was very wrong.


    As the wave of blown snow reached the mounted officer he seemed to stiffen and his horse slowed. Jerack almost thought he saw white frost build up on them. Then they both stopped movingpletely, right before impacting the drake. Jerack gasped in uprehending horror as the brave soldier and his mount toppled over stiffly toy unmoving at the beasts feet.


    With a hissing noise that sounded almost like a snicker the terrible monster flicked its tail out and smashed the guardsman. Frozen chunks of meat were thrown into the air as he shattered. The crimson broken pieces of the man then fell to the ground and rolled through the snow.


    The drake turned towards the other guardsmen and blew another st of freezing breath towards them. They struggled futilely and fell as Jerack looked on trembling in numb despair. This couldn''t be happening!


    No wonder the beast was sorge and active during the winter. It was a mutant. That wasn''t fair. What were the chances of such a huge beast surviving being twisted by such powerful magic! How could the gods allow such a cruel joke?


    As Jerack watched the mutant drake scatter the remains of the guardsman he had a dreadful premonition. The entire city would be brought to its knees by this unholy beast. It would feed freely on men, women, and children. The guardsmen, nobles, and probably even the mages would be helpless before it and its killing magical cold.


    Some of his neighbors would die as they cowered in their homes until they starved, froze, or were eaten. Others would try and evacuate only to copse along the road one by one as they struggled futilely to make the dangerous journey through the snow filled roads to safety.


    Coroulis was doomed. Soon it would be a ce of bloody terror, and soon after that it would be a frozen graveyard. Jerack began to weep in despair as he stumbled blindly away through the snow.

 Journal Entry: Goblins & Hobgoblins

    Journal Entry: Goblins & Hobgoblins


    Thends across the ocean are full of countless flora and fauna, many of which have probably never been seen by man. It is obvious to any student of geography that the Homnds are but a very small corner of a much wider world.


    While the Far Lands areprised of many separate continents with radically different environments, there is however one species that can be found practically everywhere. This rugged survivalist is known as the goblin.


    Most goblins are usually green skinned and less than four feet tall, but they can disy an incredible amount of physiological variation. Even within the same tribe or pack there can be startling differences between members. Some examples of this include: skin color, hair orck thereof, eye color, size, and build. One goblin will be bald andnky, and another will be pudgy with a mane of hair that runs down its back. One can only surmise that this remarkable variation helps them survive and adapt to so many different habitats.


    Goblins are quite intelligent for animals. They possess the ability to create and use crude tools. Many can be found using sharp sticks or wearing primitive clothes such as a fur loincloth. Sharpened stone tools have also been observed.Packs of goblins usually nest in old burrows they have taken from other animals and expanded, or within natural forming caves and crevices. Competition for such caves can be fierce though, and goblins are often evicted byrger beasts.


    The most incredible feature of the goblin however is their disy of adaptive neoteny and paedogenesis. Such a trait is unheard of in such aplex organism. For while goblins are functionally adult and can breed, under some circumstances a goblin will enter a torpid state and emerge as a hobgoblin.


    The triggers and reasons for this transformation are poorly understood. Onemon theory is that at some point in the distant past their ancestors came under intense pressure, and the ability to mature and breed quickly became necessary for their survival. Thus theter stages of their adult growth were sacrificed and rendered inert.


    Yet, obviously it did survive in some form. When the conditions are right these dormant vestigial traits are activated and a goblin will transform into a hobgoblin.


    Hobgoblins are much taller than goblins and can even reach heights equal to that of average sized men, although they are more frequently shorter than this. They tend towards the thin andnky builds found in many wild animals. Their features are also much sharper and menacing than that of normal goblins, but the most obvious difference is their horns. Hobgoblins began growing horns immediately after they transform. Again however, there can be quite ofrge amount of variation here. The protrusions can be curled, straight, or even branched like small antlers. Even the number can range anywhere from one to three.


    Hobgoblins are much more aggressive and less fearful than goblins. They also disy many signs of being incredibly territorial, and thus have difficulty being around other hobgoblins. Usually this results in an alpha hobgoblin driving out weaker and younger rivals, but this is not always the case. Several instances of hobgoblins working together have been recorded.


    It should be noted that hobgoblins generally ur where goblins are thriving and healthy, and that their appearance usually results in a increase in goblin numbers and organization. This can allow goblins packs to expand and upy new ranges, usually when a hobgoblin alpha drives out a rival and his followers. Thus, one can see the obvious survival advantages to goblin neoteny.


    Packs of goblins rarely have more than dozen members, unless it includes a hobgoblin. Muchrger groups of goblins can rally around a strong hobgoblin, and thrive under its control. This can lead to a situation where more hobgoblins start to emerge. If the new hobgoblins aren''t driven out than arge tribe can form.


    Historical records indicate that when Mankind first arrived on the Western continent severalrgemunities of goblins existed. Such settlements were generallyprised of up to two thousand goblins and perhaps a few hundred hobgoblins. Mostmonly the upants built long wooden buildings from felled trees and branches, and usedplex stone tools. Samples still survive of such instruments, and of crude goblin pottery as well. Warfare among tribes was quitemon and helped keep their rapidly expanding poptions in control.


    The existence of these goblin tribes severely limited the early colonies'' ability to expand, and thus the Goblin Wars began. Eventually through far superior technology and organization humanity managed to destroy all known examples of goblin super tribes. Yet, it is a testament to goblin adaptability thatrge numbers of them continue to live in human controllednds, even if they have descended into a feral state.


    It is unknown how theserge super tribes originally developed, or how so many goblins managed to cooperate. No records of such things survive, and there have been no recent reports of simr events happening.


    It is also worth noting that the origins of the name hobgoblin do not in fact derive from the word for demon, or any simr word. The brave and stalwart first explorers named them so due to the fact that they were considered a more civilized form of goblin. The term hob actually is based on an old Imperial word for home, and was given to them because hobgoblins sometimes constructed primitive shelters for themselves. It was onlyter colonists who began attributing them demonic aspects, most likely due to shes caused bypetition overnd.


    Truly goblins are fascinating creatures, even if they are frequently overlooked because they are somon outside the Homnds. Their rtive abundance however is undoubtedly due to the fact that they are such versatile and amazing survivors.


    -Farstidiuous Der Lanmount, Royal Gervaien Surveyor.


    So, I thought I''d release this and maybe answer some questions people may have. If you have any questions that aren''t answered by this feel free to ask and I will update it. Also, if you want another entry on another creature feel free to ask here in thements.

 Playing With Fire 1

    ying With Fire 1


    cknail was walking through the woods at the edge of Herads camp. He had gone out to empty the rabbit snares and reset them, as he did almost every day. Today though, he felt a cold shiver run up his spine a few minutes after entering the forest.


    The days had grown shorter and colder recently, but that wasnt what had caused him to shiver. cknail had felt eyes on his back. Something was stalking him. His ears twitched ever so slightly as they detected the faintest hint of noise in the trees behind him. Make that at least two things that were stalking him.


    He was careful to act normal, and not to reveal his awareness of the watchers, as he continued on his way to the traps. As he walked, cknail subtly scanned the forest around him.


    The nts had grown throughout the year and reached their full height now, and most the flowers had disappeared as well. Here, in the sunnier part of the woods, the taller nts reached up to his chest. Their once colorful summer blooms had withered and been reced by hard ck seeds, or white fluff that took flight when the wind blew through the trees. Autumn had crept up and stealthily disposed of summer when no one was looking.


    Of course not all the changes were bad. The trees had begun to bear fruit and nuts. These new treasures were hidden among the green branches of the forest canopy.


    The hobgoblin had beenpletely unaware that food even grew on trees. The very idea sounded silly to him. Wasnt food supposed to be harder to get? Now all he had to so was climb a tree, which was something he had recently gotten very good at.


    When Saeter took cknail out to hunt or track he would show him which fruits and nuts were edible and how to harvest them. Being a hobgoblin, there were many things that Saeter wouldnt touch that smelled delicious to cknail. Unfortunately, just because something smelled delicious didnt mean it wasnt poisonous. cknail learned that the hard way, after a night of fever and vomiting.


    cknail approached the snares carefully. He was listening for any hint of movement behind him that would reveal the position of his stalkers. He frowned in concern when he didnt hear anything. He knew they were there somewhere.


    Quickly, cknail gathered up the carcasses and started heading back. Around halfway there, he entered an area of the forest where the canopy was especially thin and the forest floor was bathed in sunlight.


    The animal trail cknail was following wound its way through a small field of tall weeds. As soon as he entered it, the hobgoblin purposely slowed his pace. When he was sure he was out of sight of any watchers he ducked into a small depression where the weeds concealed him. It was time to turn the tables on his pursuers.


    A few minutes passed as he waited. The only noise was that of morning birds singing, and then the shrubs rustled ever so slightly in the direction cknail had juste from. He tensed as he heard the sound of footsteps. His stalker was approaching!


    Eager energy burned through him but he patiently waited until the source of the noise had moved past him. Then, he burst out of concealment and sprung towards his pursuers exposed back. As he leapt, his jagged ws closed around the back of Khitas shirt cor, and she let a high pitched screech of shock as she jumped into the air.


    She squirmed and struggled to escape his grip for a few seconds. cknail had to brace himself to keep his hold. He was stronger than her, but their weight was almost the same. She calmed down after a moment when she threw a look over her shoulder and realized it was him.


    The young redhead flushed in embarrassment as she turned around and gave cknail a nervous look. The hobgoblin was frowning in disapproval as her held her.


    Master Saeter told-ss you not to go into the forest alone, he hissed at her.


    Most people found his hissing scary, but this insufferable female just found it sharp. She gave him a guilty smile, and shrugged her shoulders in a way that suggested she was trying to actposed.


    I wasnt alone. I was with you sorta, she replied dismissively. Besides, I was bored and thought a walk sounded like fun.


    Youre stupid. You know the forest is dangerous, master Saeter has shown you. Still-ss you try to sneak around by yourself. You are not very good at it, and will die, he replied usingly as he continued to listen carefully to his surroundings.


    Im used to danger, and Ive got my sword here anyway, she told him as she pointed to the de at her waist.


    cknail released her cor and continued to frown at her. Stealthily, he drew a stone from one of his pouches.


    A sword wont keep you safe here, he told her as he withdrew his sling and ced the stone in it.


    cknail then took the rabbits he had tied together and thrown over his shoulder and dropped them on the ground at the edge of weeds. Khita frowned as she finally noticed his odd actions and distracted manner. Before she could say anything though, cknail spun around and whirled the sling in his hand. A whistling sound filled the air as he sent a stone flying off into the leaves of a nearby tree.


    Twigs splintered and cracked as the projectile tore through the branches, and a high pitched squawk quickly followed. As both cknail and Khita watched, a small cloud of feathers and leaves fluttered down from the tree, and arge harpy took flight from where it had been hiding.


    The grey feathered creature was almost the size of cknail or Khita and had a truly impressive wingspan. It screeched and gazed at them with its ck hate filled eyes. The pping sound of its wings filled the air as it fought to gain height. A surprised Khita took a step backwards and then another one behind cknail.


    As the harpy screeched again, its eerily human like mouth opened to reveal its long needle like teeth and the ck feather crest on its head straightened to its full dramatic height. The enraged raptor hovered in the air. It seemed to be preparing itself to dive bomb them.


    cknail let out a deep menacing growl in response and stretched himself to his full height. He opened his mouth and shed his own impressive teeth back at the harpy. The stupid ugly bird thing didnt scare him. He was no longer a small weaponless goblin.


    The harpy eyed him carefully for a second, and then apparently decided this was a fight it didnt want to pursue. With onest squawk, it took off and vanished into the forest canopy.


    Khita let out a relieved sigh. When he was sure the harpy had disappeared, cknail turned towards her.


    Youre not a sneaky human. Ugly harpy followed you and wanted to eat-ss you. It knew you were a stupid brat and was waiting for you-ss to make a mistake, he exined disdainfully.


    Khita grimaced and as she looked down at the ground. She avoided his eyes out of embarrassment.


    Creepy bloody things with their damned human faces. I could have taken it though, She muttered nervously, as she looked up and scanned the canopy overhead.


    You see those ws? Theyre like-ss knives and very sharp, no? cknail asked her condescendingly.


    The hobgoblin then drew another stone. This time he whipped it by hand into the bushes beside where he had dropped the rabbits.


    There was a yelp of pain, and cknail pounced towards its source. Khita flinched and gasped at the unexpected quick movement. She was still high strung from thest surprise.


    Landing in the tall weeds, cknail felt his ws grasp something soft and pudgy. Immediately, he yanked his prey from its hiding spot and up into the air.


    Scamp hung limply in his hand. The goblinsrge eyes were wide and he had a nervous smirk on his lips. It reminded cknail of Khitas expression when he had caught her.


    Ello boss. I gonna carry rabbits for ya, Scamp told cknail hopefully.


    The hobgoblin glowered at the little liar. He wanted to tell the goblin that Varhs was his master not him, but he couldnt. Varhs was a terrible master. cknail was pretty sure he never beat Scamp at all! How was that supposed to work?


    cknail shuddered to think about what would happen if he wasnt around to keep Scamp under control. Why couldnt Scamp be as well behaved as he had been as a goblin?


    Unlike Khita, the goblin hadnt actually been forbidden to enter the woods. He was just annoying and cknail didnt want him around.


    The stupid little runt had no fear of the forest since he had been born there. He was also borderline suicidal, especially since he kept trying to steal cknails rabbits. No matter how many times cknail caught and punished him he didnt stop.


    Unfortunately, the young goblin was also very sneaky and thus unlikely to actually get himself killed. The same couldnt be said for Khita. cknail had to watch her like a hawk.


    Awhile back, Khita had gotten bored and decided she wanted to be a scout. So she had bugged Saeter until he had reluctantly let her join them on a few trips out into forest. cknail had been secretly hoping that she had finally annoyed Saeter enough that they were taking her out into the woods to be disposed of.


    He hadnt been so lucky. Now Khita considered herself an expert at navigating the forest, which she wasnt. To make matters even worse Vorscha had showed up and made it in to cknail that she would be holding him responsible for Khitas safety. How was that fair?


    You gonna drop me, boss? Scamp asked as the hobgoblin held him up.


    cknails arm was getting tired so he gave the goblin a quick growl and dropped him onto the ground. Then he gave him a hard kick. Scamp grunted as he was sent sprawling over to rest at Khitas feet, but he quickly pulled himself back up. Goblins were hard to hurt.


    Stay with her, he ordered Scamp as he began stomping back to camp.


    Okay, boss, the goblin replied cheerfully.


    Hey, why did you do that? Khita asked in disapproval.


    cknail ignored her; he didnt care at all about what she thought. She was stupid.


    After he didnt respond, Khita and the goblin immediately started following him. It wasnt like they had anywhere else to go.


    It took more than a few minutes to hike through the woods and get back to the camp. Khita was huffing in exhaustion when they arrived because cknail had set a quick pace. After a brief nod to the sentry on duty, who was no one important, they stepped out of the forest and Herads base came into sight.


    The seasons werent the only things that had been changing. Herad had her ambitions, and she was working hard towards achieving them.


    The camp was slowly but surely transforming. The small log buildings that the bandits had originally built had been expanded and several more of them had been constructed. Almost all the lean-tos had been torn down and reced. Even the forest had been pushed back, both for lumber and safety.


    Wooden watchtowers had been set up along the road at the edge of the woods, where they could be concealed by the trees. A small haphazard wall of wooden stakes was slowly being constructed along one side of the perimeter as well. All in all, the base was beginning to look more like a small woond vige than a bandit camp.


    After a quick look back to make sure Scamp and Khita were still following him, cknail headed for his campsite. He had to start preparing the rabbits right away or they would go bad. Actually, he would probably make Khita do it. He would have made Scamp help, but the goblin would just eat half of them.


    cknail didnt have time to waste preparing rabbits. Therger base also contained more ouws, and all those ouws needed to be fed. Thus, Herad kept her scouts very busy hunting for food. Buying supplies from town was expensive and cut into her profits after all.


    The bandit chieftain had continued to send out parties to recruit or wipe out anyone who dared operate in the territory she had imed as her own. Since her territory was a ratherrge and poorly defined area she never ran out of targets. The base contained over two hundred bandits now, or it would have if men werent constantly being sent out anding back.


    As she had nned, Herad had stopped raiding caravans and was instead charging tolls now. Bandits were still sent out to intercept travelers on the road, but now they were under strict orders not to kill anyone who didnt resist. They also werent allowed to rob anyone who paid Herads fee. Word of these changes and what was happening was spreading rapidly through the region.


    However, collecting tolls wasnt a job that Herad sent Saeter and cknail out to do. For some reason she thought they wouldnt be very good at it. cknail was pretty sure it was because Saeter was so grumpy. They had more important things to do anyway.


    On top of being her best pair of hunters Herad also used them for less dangerous jobs, like tracking down other bandits that encroached on her territory. Compared to some of the things that lurked out in the deep green killing a few humans and scaring the rest into submission was no big deal.


    His first trip out to fight men who had tried to encroach on their territory had been by far the most eventful. cknail was just very d they hadnt run into any more trolls.


    They reached the camp Saeter, Khita, and cknail shared. The hobgoblin turned and addressed the young woman behind him.


    Prepare the rabbits cknail told Khita as he held them out to her.


    Why should I? she asked him defiantly.


    So I dont kill you and hide-ss your corpse in the mud-ss, he replied with an annoyed hiss.


    Khita justughed, and gave him a cheerful smile.


    You wouldnt do that. Youre all nasty on the outside but inside youre soft as cloth, she told him.


    cknail snarled at her. He would totally do that! Well, he would if he thought he could get away with it. Unfortunately, if Khita went missing he would be among the first suspects. Then he would have to flee into the woods before Vorscha could smash him t.


    Sometimes he almost still considered doing it, though. At least it would be quiet out in the Deep Green.


    Do it, or Ill tell-ss Vorscha you havent been practicing, cknail told her.


    Hey, I have too been practicing everything she told me to, she replied excitedly as she red at him.


    I will lie-ss. She will believe me, the hobgoblin told her as he gave Khita a smug smile.


    I take it back. You are nasty and evil on the inside, Khita told him angrily.


    cknail just shrugged and held out the rabbits again. Khita threw him a mad re, but she grabbed them from him.


    Fine,e on Scamp lets she started to say; only to stop when she looked down and noticed the goblin was gone. He had been there a second ago.


    Khita gave a defeated sigh, and walked over near the fire pit between their tents and started to get to work. cknail could hear her muttering angrily to herself and saying rude things about goblins as she worked.


    He ignored her and set off to find Scamp. He had a feeling the goblin was going to get into trouble unless he stopped him. Mostly because that was all the little pest ever did. For what was far from the first time, cknail cursed Varhs for picking the goblin up. Why couldnt he have found a smarter goblin at least, or an attractive female?


    Apparently, the scout had been out hunting when he had stumbled upon the young injured goblin and decided to tame it. cknail found this story very suspicious. He suspected Varhs had been out looking for a goblin to tame.


    It would have been fine if Varhs had properly trained Scamp, but he hadnt. The man was far toox and undisciplined. That meant that if cknail didnt want people getting a bad impression of goblins he had to discipline Scamp himself.


    cknail scowled as he looked around and sniffed the air. Scamps trail wasnt easy to follow. The odor of many strong scents such as blood and garbagey thickly upon the camp, and it was sometimes hard to distinguish the goblinstest trail from his older ones. Luckily, the goblin had picked up some fairly pungent nt smells while he had been out in the woods.


    After several false leads and dead ends, the hobgoblin found himself standing outside Mahediums cabin. This made him more than a little nervous. He wasnt sure exactly what the mage did in there, but he was sure it was a bad ce for a goblin to be running loose. Things might explode, more than they normally did.


    Hells-ss, cknail cursed. He had been working on learning and using swear wordstely.


    After he had sworn to obey Herad and officially joined the band, Mahedium had quicklymandeered one of the cabins for himself. The former upants hadined but the mage had managed to convince Herad he needed it for ab.


    The mage had rarely left the building except for one trip he had made to Riverdown for supplies. Apparently, he was scared to go into cities because he had very powerful enemies. cknail had heard him argue with Herad over the cost of the equipment he needed, and arguing meant Mahedium had begged and pleaded until he had gotten what he wanted.


    cknail stepped up to the door of the building and opened it enough for him to slip inside. The interior was dark but there was enough light to see, even for a human. The cabin was a fairlyrge building because it had been originally designed to bunk a dozen men. The inside was only split into two rooms. There was a smaller front room and arger one.


    The floor of first room was packed dirt with a thin straw covering, and there were two small windows on each side of the room that let light in. A small bed was tucked up against one wall and there was a wooden table and chair against another. A few items and books were scattered around, but there was no one in sight.


    Idly, cknail examined some of the things. He was surprised to find the weird rectangr things were full of word covered paper. What could humans possibly write about that would require so many words? He certainly couldnt think of anything.


    With a sigh, cknail put the book down and fought the urge to pocket some of the things lying around. Mahedium seemed like the type of person that would notice if things went missing and cknail wasnt a thief anyway.


    Since it was clear no one else was there, cknail moved over to the door on the far wall that led to the next room. Carefully, he opened it and went through.


    The room on the other side was very different than the one he just left. Arge table dominated the center of the room. The floor around it was straw free but looked like it had been mixed with y or something before it had been ttened. It was much cleaner but also colder than the other room. A few smaller tables, a small desk, and some mostly empty bookshelves lined the walls.


    The windows here were all shuttered up, and the only light came from a pair of obviously magicalmps that flooded the room with a pure white glow. They looked like simple metal oilmps except the wicks and oil had been reced by brightly glowing crystals. One of them hung from the ceiling while the other had been ced on the desk.


    Seated in front of the desk was Mahedium. He hadnt looked up when cknail had entered. In fact, he seemedpletely ignorant that anyone else was in the room with him. cknail cast a look around the room for signs of Scamp, but didnt see any.


    Scattered across the tables and shelves were many ss beakers and cups of different sizes. Various fluids filled the containers, most of which were clear or muddy brown. cknail saw a few crystals, that he was pretty sure were magical,ying around as well.


    The hobgoblin walked up behind Mahedium and coughed to get his attention. The mage quickly sat up and spun around towards the unexpected noise. When he saw cknail he gasped and flinched, which caused his chair to rock and then tip over. The surprised mage iled and tried to catch his bnce, but failed, and hit the ground with a heavy thud.


    cknail frowned down the man. He hadnt meant for that to happen.


    Sorry, he told Mahedium, as the mage picked himself off the ground.


    Mahedium scowled at him as he brushed the dirt from his clothes. cknail didnt notice a difference; the mans clothes were pretty dirty to begin with.


    Ah, cknail. You shouldnt surprise people like that. Now what do you want? Normally I wouldnt mind talking with you, youre a rather fascinating creature, but Im very busy right now, he told the hobgoblin.


    cknail decided to take that as apliment.


    I followed Scamp here, and this is a bad-ss ce for him, cknail replied.


    Mahedium blinked in confusion.


    The little goblin? Well, he cant be in here. I would have noticed, Mahedium told him.


    cknail gave him a dubious look. He hadnt noticed a hobgoblin walk right up behind him, so he stood no chance of whatsoever of noticing Scamp.


    Before he could say anything though there was a sh of light and both cknail and Mahedium looked over to see Scamp reaching up onto a table to grab some crystals. One of the crystals in his hand had red to life and was the source of the bright glow. The goblin gave them both a startled look as he unexpectedly found himself the center of attention. cknail growled menacingly.


    Bye bye, Scamp blurted out, as he dashed for the door cknail had left open.


    Before anyone else could react he had disappeared through it. Mahediums eyes had gone wide with disbelief, and he looked stunned.


    He shouldnt be able to do that. Its impossible, the mage eximed in shock.


    Then he froze and clenched his jaw tight.


    Oh oh, if we dont get those crystals back right now this could be very bad, he told cknail.


    "How bad?" The hobgoblin asked suspiciously. He was beginning to suspect magic was more trouble than it was worth.


    "They might explode and take out half the base... or worse," Mahedium replied.


    cknail eyed the mage warily. Of course they would. As if explosions weren''t bad enough.


    The hobgoblin clenched his teeth and let out a low angry growl. When he caught Scamp the little goblin was going to get such a kicking.

 Playing With Fire 2

    ying With Fire 2


    With an impatient growl, cknail took off after Scamp. He ran through Mahediumsb and then out through his living chamber. The hobgoblin then burst outside andnded on the ground in a crouch, as he quickly looked around for the goblin.


    There was no sign of him, so cknail hurriedly sniffed the ground for his scent. Mahedium stepped out behind him. He looked flustered and annoyed, but there was also a gleam of excitement in his eyes.


    Where did he go? the nervous mage asked.


    cknail didnt bother to respond. He just took off after Scamp as soon as he caught his scent. He moved at a brisk walk as he tracked his quarry. Mahedium followed him.


    Why was Scamp allowed to run around like this? It was stupid. When Saeter had taken him in cknail hadnt been allowed to leave his masters side without permission.


    Scamp''s trail led to a group of empty tents that encircled a fire pit off to one corner of the camp. The four tents were made from animal hides stretched over wooden poles. Arge pot of something was hanging over the unlit campfire. cknail scanned the area quickly, but didnt see any obvious signs of Scamp.


    Then, he heard a faint sound from one of the tents. As silently as possible, the hobgoblin crept over to it and gently slid the entrance p open so he could look inside. cknail didnt see the goblin, but there was a man sleeping under some nkets in the tent. cknail frowned; he had been sure Scamp would be in there.


    The unconscious bandit whoy within the tent stirred as cool air blew in through the open p. Then he blinked and opened his eyes, to find cknails green face staring down at him.


    What in all the hells?! he yelled out as he jerked away from the hobgoblin.


    As he moved away from cknail, he pulled his coverings with him, and the hide nkets slid away to reveal a green lump. Tentatively, a small hand rose from the green mass and patted the area around itself as if searching for something. After it apparently failed to find what it was looking for, Scamps head rose up and looked around. The goblin cringed and grimaced when he saw the hobgoblin staring down at him.


    cknail growled triumphantly. Hed found his prey. Mahedium stepped up beside the hobgoblin and stuck his head in the tent as well.


    Ah ha! the mage dered as he noticed the goblin.


    Wha? What the fuck are all you bastards doing in my tent? the man inside the tent yelled as his fear and surprise turned to anger.


    Sorry, its important, cknail replied politely. At least the man hadnt thrown anything at him.


    Dont let that goblin get away, its stolen some dangerous magical items! Mahedium said at almost the same time.


    The tents owner stared at Mahedium for a second, then what the mage had said sunk in and an rmed expression appeared on his face. He quickly responded by diving as far away from the goblin as he could get while cknail was blocking the tents entrance.


    Return my mana crystals! Mahediummanded as he scowled disdainfully at the bandit.


    cknail didnt bother with words; he just leapt at Scamp. The useless little thief was really getting on his nerves.


    No, my bright pretties! the goblin troublemaker yelled as he rolled under one of the tent walls to the outside.


    cknail hissed angrily as hended on empty ground. Infuriated, he spun around and pushed past Mahedium as he exited the tent and continued the chase. Once outside, he whirled around until he saw Scamps fleeing form.


    The little goblin was making for a group of bandits who were standing around and talking to each other beside a pile of crates. cknail sprinted after him at full speed. When he got his hands on Scamp the little idiot would never dare cross him ever again!


    cknails target ran through the legs of the humans in his path as he frantically tried to keep his lead on the angry hobgoblin chasing him. Several of the bandits swore and flinched as he hit their legs on his way past.


    cknail didnt slow down as he approached the group of men. He was going to catch that stupid runt no matter what! How dare the little goblin challenge him. This was cknails camp and as a goblin Scamp should do what he told him to, or else!


    Oh shit. Move! one of the men ahead of cknail yelled as he saw the hobgoblin speeding towards them.


    Several of the bandits turned and then tried to move out of the way when they saw cknail speeding towards them. Most of them were too slow. cknail pushed and twisted his way through them. The men swore angrily as he shoved them aside or knocked them over.


    Scamp was now running towards three men seated around a camp fire. The bandits appeared to be eating stew from a pot. cknail continued chasing the goblin, and with his longer legs he was steadily closing the distance between them.


    Once again, Scamp manoeuvred through the clump of men. cknail was only a few feet away though, and pounced at the goblin. Unfortunately for cknail, he missed as Scamp threw himself to the side and out of the way. The hobgoblinnded on all fours in the middle of the men and startled them. There were surprised shouts as they all shot to their feet.


    As cknail scrambled to get back to his feet and continue the chase, somethingnded on his back and then he felt warm liquid ssh all over him. One of the bandits had identally knocked over the stew pot, and it had spilled onto cknail.


    Instinctively, the hobgoblin tried to shake himself dry, which sent droplets of wasted stew flying everywhere. Most of the goop was too sticky to be so easily removed, but the bandits around him gave several more rmed shouts and tried to back away as the slimy droplets flew everywhere.


    cknail gave an enraged scream and bounded after Scamp again. Forget teaching him a lesson, he was going to rip the goblin apart with his bare hands, and enjoy everyst hour of it! How dare the useless goblin not obey him!


    At the sound of cknails scream, the fleeing goblin cast a nervous nce back. When he saw cknail chasing him, he yelped in fear and turned to race towards a nearby pile of firewood. The hobgoblin was hissing with rage and practically frothing at the mouth, as he bore down on the smaller goblin.


    Scamp dove into the wood pile and disappeared within. cknail was right behind him. He jumped onto the top of the wood pile and began tearing it apart. Pieces of firewood were sent flying in every direction as the enraged hobgoblin started madly digging his way down into the center of the wood stack.


    Soon, a small crowd had gathered to see what was going on. Mahedium had followed cknail and was now standing to one side of themotion. As he looked on, the mage was biting his thumb and clearly very nervous.


    What in all the bloody hells is going on here? Red Dog eximed as he walked over.


    Ah the other goblin Scamp, I believe his name is, stole some of my mana stones. The hobgoblin, cknail, chased him down to get them back. Now though, I fear circumstances have caused him to be more than a little enraged. Hes trying to dig Scamp out, Mahedium exined fretfully, after he had taken his thumb out of his mouth.


    Hes making a damned mess is what hes doing. Where in all the hells are Saeter and Varhs? This is their responsibility, a scowling Red Dog asked.


    Well theres another problem, Mahedium told him.


    Story of my life it seems. Go on tell me, Red Dog told him with a sigh.


    The goblin may somehow have the ability to trigger the wed mana stones in its possession, Mahedium exined reluctantly.


    One eyebrow rose on Red Dogs thick face as he gave the mage a look full of disbelief.


    And what exactly does that mean? he responded.


    Well, since the crystals are wed the effect of the goblin activating them is unpredictable, Mahedium replied.


    Guess, Red Dog replied dryly.


    Mahedium hesitated. He clearly didnt want to answer this question.


    Most likely they will explode, but really anything could happen. They might do nothing, emit harmless light, disintegrate the user, or produce a sound that kills everyone who hears it but he probably wont actually trigger crystal. He would need a good reason to do that, Mahedium told the other man hopefully.


    Like say fear for instance? Red Dog asked sarcastically.


    Um, yes Mahedium responded.


    Red Dog turned back to the wood pile that cknail was ripping apart. He stared at the hissing and enraged hobgoblin for a few seconds before turning back to Mahedium.


    I would be very afraid if I was him, Red Dog told the mage.


    Mahedium just stood there and looked worried for a few seconds before saying anything.


    What are you going to do? he asked the other bandit.


    Me? Im going to back the fuck up til Im outside the range of an explosion, and then Im going to plug my ears, Red Dog replied.


    Mahedium didnt seem reassured by Red Dogs words. He turned back towards cknail and started biting his thumb again.


    Several minutes passed as cknail dug. He was trying to budge a particrlyrge and stuck piece of lumber when he heard something that broke through his rage.


    cknail you filthy beast, stop that now! an angry sounding voice yelled.


    The hobgoblin instantly stopped. By this time he had cut his way fairly deep into the timber pile, so he had to straighten up and turn to glimpse the source of the voice. The other option was to dive deeper and join Scamp in hiding.


    Herad was standing a few feet from the edge of the wood heap, and she was ring angrily at him. The rage that had built up inside cknail quickly withered, as it was smothered by cold fear.


    Frantically, cknail thought back to thest few minutes, and tried to remember if he had done anything to piss her off. He winced slightly as he remembered running through the one group of bandits. That wasnt so bad, though. cknail was almost certain Herad wouldnt feel the need to kill him over it, but then again with Herad you never knew.


    Come down here, Heradmanded.


    cknail warily did as he was told and hopped down off the stacks of wood. As he moved, he noticed that Herad wasnt alone for the first time. A very worried looking Varhs was standing beside her.


    The younger scout was rough looking as usual, all the bandits were, but he looked slightly pale underneath the dirt and fuzz on his face. As the cowering hobgoblin approached Herad turned to Varhs.


    Varhs, Im told your pet goblin started this mess. When you asked to keep the goblin you were warned what would happen if you didnt keep it out of trouble. I dont like wasting my time on crap like this, so what do you have to say for yourself? Herad asked Varhs.


    She sounded more disappointed than angry, but her voice was still cold and unyielding. Varhs gulped before answering her.


    Im sorry boss. Scamps a good boy; I dont know whats gotten into him all of a sudden. Im sure that if everyone were to just calm down I would be able to call him out and get the stuff back. Everyones just making mountains out of molehills here, he replied with an usatory nce at cknail.


    This infuriated the hobgoblin. He wasnt to me at all! All he had done was try to catch the little thief. It was too much for cknail, he spoke up.


    Scamps mess is all your fault. You dont train him-ss right. No beatings or orders, just treats! Youre a terrible master. He is still wild and needs hard-ss training cknail furiously countered.


    Both Varhs and cknail stared at each other angrily for a few seconds before Herad bothered to respond.


    What do you think Saeter? You usually have an opinion on everything Herad asked snidely.


    cknail blinked in confusion for a few seconds then followed her gaze to his left, where his master now stood. The hobgoblin hadnt noticed his approach.


    This isnt my business, but cknails right. Varhs goblin isnt trained properly, Saeter responded calmly.


    Hmmm, we agree for once. The goblin goes and Varhs pays the price then, Herad mused aloud.


    Varhs looked like someone had just kicked him in the balls. His faced was twisted up with pain and regret.


    Im sorry boss. Its only been one time though. Give me another chance. Ill make sure Scamp behaves. I beg you! he pleaded.


    I dont give second chances, and I hate begging. Youve wasted my time enough, and it wont happen again, she replied with a cold judging tone. Her eyes were dark and contained not even the slimmest glimmer of mercy.


    Varhs cringed and a desperate look appeared on his face as he turned to Saeter and cknail.


    Come on cknail, I know youre mad but Scamps a goblin like you! You cant want to see him disposed of. Ill take the punishment, but please why dont you take Scamp, Varhs begged them.


    cknail gave Varhs a befuddled look. Scamp was nothing like him, and why should he care about other goblins? He would be happy to see the wretched thief gone.


    I dont want a badly trained goblin, Saeter simply said.


    Fine cknail, Ill give you treats if you train Scamp. Youve been criticizing me and how I do it. Lets see you do better! Varhs offered.


    What kind-ss of treats? I have all the meat-ss I need, cknail asked curiously.


    Stuff from town; types of meat and tasty human food youve never had before, Varhs told him.


    cknail considered it. He would get to try new delicious foods and beat sense into Scamp as much as he wanted. He threw a questioning nce at Herad. The chief had to give her permission.


    Ill allow it. cknail knows how to train a goblin, and hes ruthless enough to correct any problems that crop up, Herad told them as she stood there with her arms crossed in front of her.


    Fine-ss, but I train him how I want, cknail answered.


    Varhs looked relieved and seemed like he was going to thank cknail, but Herad cut him off.


    This debate has already taken up too much of my time. If you know whats good for you then youll call your goblin out right now, and pray he listens, Herad told the scout menacingly.


    Varhs jumped to obey. He swiftly run up to the wood pile and began calling for Scamp and reassuring the goblin that he would be safe.


    A few minutester, a very scared goblin emerged from the wood pile. He was shivering and his eyes were huge. The crystals were still in his hands, and he flinched as he noticed cknail staring at him. The hobgoblin was actually smiling but for some reason Scamp didnt find thatforting.


    Varhs reached down and held out his hand, and Scamp ced the crystals in them. Even after all the trouble they had caused him, the goblin seemed hesitant to give them up. Once he had the mana stones Varhs returned them to Mahedium, who looked very relieved to have them back.


    Much to everyones surprise the mage then handed one of the stones back to the goblin.


    Ill let you keep it if you can make it glow again, he told the whimpering goblin.


    Scamp gave the mage a bewildered look, but then he stared at the stone in his hands. When nothing happened be began to grip it tighter until he almost seemed to be trying to crush it.


    Nothing is happening. You must have imagined it. Theres no way goblins can do magic, Red Dog remarked with a snort of disbelief.


    Mahedium threw him an annoyed nce. By this time most the camp seemed to have gathered to see what had been going on. Even Vorscha and Geralhd had wandered over.


    It takes training to burn a crystal, on purpose anyway. I dont tell you how to stick a sword in someone''s face and make off with their coin pouch, so dont attempt to lecture me about the nature of magic and mages, the Mahedium replied condescendingly.


    Before Red Dog could reply, there was a sh of light as Scamps crystal came to life in his hands. White light zed from between his fingers. It was bright enough to reveal the shadows of his bones, but after a few seconds it winked out.


    Ha, as a first major discovery this is undoubtedly an odd one, but it is one none the less. The guilds believe that humans are the only species able to burn and utilize mana stones, but obviously I have just proved them wrong! Clearly those inbred thugs arent as good at magic as they believe, Mahedium bragged loudly.


    The mage had a smug smile on his face as he reached into one of his pockets and pulled out another light stone. He tossed it to an off guard cknail, who fumbled it and almost dropped it.


    Try and light it up, Mahedium told him.


    With an indifferent shrug, cknail looked down at the crystal in his hands. He stared down at it and concentrated. What had Scamp done to make his light up?


    The hobgoblin began to squeeze the stone as hard as he could. Several minutes went by, but nothing happened. Feeling frustrated and annoyed, cknail tossed the useless rock back to Mahedium.


    Hmm, it does seem like goblins are simr to humans in that only part of the poption is mage born. I would need much moreprehensive testing to be sure, though, Mahedium mused aloud.


    Red Dog rolled his eyes and snorted in annoyance. He was ring at the mage angrily.


    This just means youre going to have to lock your crystals up. Other than that its a pretty bloody useless discovery, Red Dog told him.


    I can think of several uses for this. For instance, I could use the goblins blood instead of my own as a catalyst to start crystal formation, and it would be interesting to test if the ability is exactly the same in both species, Mahedium responded dismissively.


    Vorschae here, and you two be quiet. Everyone else get your useless asses out of here, Herad suddenly announced as she walked over to Red Dog and Mahedium.


    She threw an angry re at the nearby crowds, and they quickly started to disperse. Soon, only Red Dog, Saeter, Geralhd, Vorscha, Mahedium, Varhs, and cknail were left. They all stood in a loose half circle facing Herad.


    Since youre all here and Ive already wasted too much of my time, Im going to go over our future ns right now, Herad told them. I told you earlier this year that I would probably be heading north to Daggerpoint before winter set in, and thats still the n.


    Why? I thought we were iming this territory as our own. Vorscha asked.


    Thats what were doing... Herad started to answer but cknail was distracted by a grumble from his stomach.


    As the humans started discussing the nitty-gritty details of something he didnt really care about, the hobgoblin began to think about food. He had a bunch of dried meat in one of his pouches but he sort of felt like something sweet instead.


    Oh, there was that clump of berry bushes out in the woods. Hmmm berries, that would really hit the spot.


    The hobgoblin nced around. It didnt look like anyone here would miss him, or had even noticed him, so he was just going to go step out and grab a snack. He would probably get back before the humans got to anything important anyway. They really did love to hear themselves talk.

 Playing With Fire 3

    ying With Fire 3


    While Herad and Saeter were exchanging particrly deep scowls and arguing about something unimportant, cknail tiptoed silently away. There was a nearby berry bush he wanted to pluck clean and all the pointless talking the humans were doing was annoying.


    It didnt take him long to slip away to the edge of the forest. Everyone in camp had grown used to him by now, and he had quickly learned how to move without drawing attention anyway. As a rule, humans werent very observant unless you gave them a good reason to get excited.


    Once there, the hobgoblin began trekking through the woods towards his destination. cknail hopped excitedly over a fallen tree as the green canopy grew thicker overhead.


    He was really going to enjoy munching down on those berries. Just thinking about their sweet tangy taste was causing his mouth to water. He had to lick his lips clean to prevent drool from getting all over his shirt.


    Soon, cknail reached a spot in the woods where the trees grew thinner and eventually gave way to a small clearing. There, where the sunlight mixed with the shade cast at the edge of the trees was where the juiciest of berries grew.


    Happily, the hobgoblin bounced over and carefully reached into the thorny nts there to pluck his favorite fruits. As the sulent vour hit his tongue, he groaned blissfully and then started to pick the berries as fast as he could and shove them into his mouth. They were so good!


    Eventually, when hed filled himself up and his lips had turned purple, cknail belched and began swaggering back to camp. He figured the humans were done with all the useless talking by now and if not they were easier to ignore on a full stomach.


    As he swaggered on back to the camp, a whiff of something unexpected filled his nostrils. He stiffened and quickly cast a nervous nce at his surroundings, but all he saw was the normal mix of trees and bushes.


    The scent was strange and he couldnt quite identify it, although it did smell somewhat familiar. Maybe, it smelled sort of like that huge monstrous slime hed defeated? It was more like an animal though, and to be giving off so much scent it had to be arge one.


    Curiously but with a fair bit of caution, this was the forest after all, cknail sniffed around to find the source of the smell. It didnt take him long to discover a trail that something had torn through the underbrush. He bent over to examine it as he reached down and ran his fingernails through the dirt.


    This was interesting. Whatever had made the scent hade this way and then retreated back in the same direction. Judging by theck of footprints and the drag marks on the ground it was probably another slime.


    Now that cknail was a hobgoblin he wasnt afraid of running into a slime. He had defeated a huge one even when hed been a mere little goblin. Now no slime could possibly be a match for his deadly warrior skills!


    His memory of things so long ago was kind of fuzzy but he was pretty sure Herad had really wanted to find out where the slime hade from. If cknail traced the thing back to itsir then his chieftain was sure to reward him!


    The forest might be a dangerous ce to explore but the thing that had made this trail had sort of a pleasant floral scent to it, so how dangerous could it be?


    The hobgoblin gave onest look around at the trees and bushes before heading deeper into the forest in pursuit of his reward. He was headed in a direction that the bandits in Herads band usually avoided. The ground here was muddy and practically swamp-like.


    As he walked, a fair number of the nearby trees were reced by bleached white husks that were leaning at odd angles. The constant floods here brought on by the rain had obviously killed a lot of trees. The healthier ones here were thick and lush looking though, if kind of short.


    As he scampered across a tree trunk that had fallen over a small stream, something caught cknails eye. There was a dried up pond over to his left with only a bit of water left in the very center of it. The wet season was over now and there had been very little raintely.


    Along the muddy banks of the pool there was arge rocky crevice, and the trail cknail was following led right to it. The hobgoblin cautiously made his way closer and examined the entrance to the cave.


    The water that was left in the pondpped up against the bottom of the crevice, and it looked like the entire thing would most likely be underwater during the wet season. That would definitely exin why no one had found it before. Most of his tribe bathed only slightly more than he did, which was almost never.


    The cave was easilyrge enough for the hobgoblin to enter but it looked muddy and very dark inside. He leaned into it but he couldnt really get a good glimpse of whaty within. Well, the trail of the creature led directly here so this was probably the ce Herad was looking for.


    cknail decided that entering the cave to check it out would be icky and too much work so he decided to head back. After making sure he remembered how toe back here, the hobgoblin hopped up, re-crossed the stream, and started back towards camp.


    As he walked something started to bother him. What was it?


    The answer came to him as he ducked under a low tree branch. It was too quiet. The birds were still singing up in the top of the trees but the forest seemed muted and on edge. It was probably nothing, though.


    Once or twice, he also thought he heard a subtle rustling noise from behind him. When that happened he quickly turned his head to look back but he never saw anything. He was probably imagining the noise, but just in case he started walking a bit faster. Better safe than lunch.


    Soon, he was out of the swampy area and back into the forest proper where the trees grew tall and straight. Not long after that, he made it back to camp.


    The hobgoblin easily slipped past the sentries set to watch the forest border and strolled leisurely into the bandits base. It wasnt like the guards would have stopped him or anything, but there was no point in letting them see him. They probably had better things to do than watch him.


    Unsurprisingly, Herad and the others were still talking when he got back. cknail sighed and crept back up behind Saeter to listen in. He was already kind of hungry again. All that walking had been hard work.


    ...to enforce my im I have to get the other bands to ept it, Herad was exining. To offer safe passage I have to make sure no one else dares poach my targets. The only way to make sure that doesnt happen is to make sure the other bands know exactly how bad of an idea it would be to mess around here...


    Boring! This was the same stuff they had been talking about when he left. He really wanted to tell Herad about how amazing of a tracker he was and about how hed found the cave shed been looking for. That would be a much more interesting conversation and he would probably even get a treat out of it.


    He didnt want to interrupt her, though. She wouldnt like that and when she didnt like things people tended to get stabbed.


    Boss, theres a bunch of riders approaching! a familiar sounding bandit suddenly yelled urgently. Theyreing down the road fast, and they look like knights.


    The conversation instantly stopped as everyone present whirled around to look towards the speaker. cknail perked up and nced that way as well. This sounded much more interesting!


    Shit, Red Dog swore as he flinched in surprise.


    Herad didnt waste any time; within seconds she had spun around and dashed towards both the shouter and the road that bordered the camp. Everyone else, including cknail, hurriedly followed her. The hobgoblin wanted to see what all the excitement was about.


    The chieftain had reached the bandit who had yelled and was now jogging alongside her. As they moved the camp was quicklying alive around them. The bandits werent always the most motivated people but a possible enemy attack got their attention.


    cknail scampered up behind Herad. The dark eyed bandit chieftain was now standing along the road and staring down it. The hobgoblin quickly spotted what she was looking at. There was arge group of mounted human warriors headed their way.


    He counted around three dozen of the knights, and they looked familiar. It took the hobgoblin a few seconds of head scratching before he remembered where hed seen them before. They were the riders hed seen out on the road when he and Saeter had been sent out to find the deserters. Red Dog had been there too.


    The knights werent flying a g this time but they were still armed and armored better than any humans cknail had ever seen before. They held long spears, had swords at their waists, and wore a mix of chainmail and steel te. If it came to a fight cknail nned on staying as far away from them as possible and attacking from a distance.


    As the bandits watched, the riders trotted warily up the road and approached the camp. Under the vignt eyes of the lead knight, the quickest of the bandits had already formed a loose line and were getting ready to meet them.


    There was a crude wooden tower set up beside the road and the men inside it already had their bows drawn and ready. A simple barricade of sharpened stakes tied also blocked the road. That was good because cknail was pretty sure that without it the bandits on the ground wouldst just long enough to be trampled to death if the knights charged.


    That would be amusing to see but probably wouldnt be in cknails best interest. The horses the knights were riding looked like vicious bastards. He didnt really want to see them from closer up.


    Those are definitely Lord Strachans men, Red Dog observed in a hostile tone.


    The question is what in all the hells theyre doing out here, Vorscha replied. Ive heard the old lord keeps mostly to himself these days since his son died and hisnds are South of here. I doubt he has the manpower to throw knights around.


    Well, whatever his reasons theyre here now and I would bet against them being friendly to a group of bandits like us. Im fairly sure knights are supposed to stomp out bands like ours with extreme prejudice by royal decree, Saeter grunted.


    Damn right, Red Dog swore in agreement.


    Herads bodyguards were never too far away, and with all the suddenmotion it didnt take long for several of them to appear and make their way to her side. Therge menacing looking thugs gathered up behind their mistress and red at the approaching riders.


    We outnumber them almost ten to one, Vorscha observed.


    That will hardly matter if they simply hit us like the Hammer of Azur-Wa. You know better than most what happens when heavy cavalry hits irregrs like us. I left the army to avoid ending up like that, Red Dog countered.


    They dont seem properly equipped to function as heavy stompers, Vorscha replied. They look more like theyve been doing a lot of ridingtely and just stumbled upon us, and they definitely dont look eager to charge.


    Good, Saeter grunted as he made his way up to Herad.


    As the riders got closer their horses slowed down to a steady trot. Dozens of armed bandits watched nervously as two of them broke away from the rest and approached the barricade.


    Hail the camp! the first rider yelled as he came to stop several dozen feet from the entrance to the base.


    Identify yourselves! Herad shouted back in amanding tone.


    There was what looked to be a brief argument between the two riders before they responded. After a few moments the same man as before answered.


    I am sir Masnin, a pdin in service to the Order of Helio-Lustria. The man behind me is sir Devus, the leader of a detachment of knights Lord Strachan sent to aid me in my quest, the rider exined politely but with a steely edge to his voice.


    Herad wasnt impressed. Her scowl only deepened as she regarded the holy knight.


    A pdin, eh? What brings such illustriouspany such as yourself to my edge of my woods, pray tell? she asked condescendingly.


    As cknail listened, he tilted his head to the side. What was a pdin? It sounded sort of like a type of dessert, but not a particrly tasty one. Maybe like one of those really fancy looking ones that you got all excited about having but then ended up tasting worse than the cheap stuff.


    Im here fulfilling the holy work of my order; Im tracking an infection, Sir Masnin told the bandit chieftain. There was an outbreak of the dark gue in a vige to the South a while back. The gue was stopped and burnt out before it could spread but several infected escaped out into the woods. Ive tracked them North to here, and by now they are without doubt fully fledged ghouls.


    We encountered those ghouls of yours and dealt with them ourselves. They were purged with holy silver and cleansing fire, so theres no need for you to worry yourself about them any longer, Herad replied as she stared the mounted pdin down.


    Then you have done the Sun Gods will and I thank you. I will of course need to enter your camp, question your men, and see that all is right for myself, sir Masnin exined in a polite tone.


    Herad eyed the pdin and the knights behind him doubtfully before bursting out into darkughter. Most the riders flinched and reached for their weapons but sir Masnin remained calm and his gaze never wavered from Herads.


    "Youre going to have to take my word for it because thats not going to happen, pretty boy. Why dont you ride off before you get yourself hurt? she told him.


    The pdin opened his mouth to respond but was interrupted when the rider next to him spoke up.


    We cant trust these viins, sir Masnin; theyre fucking bandits and honorless deserters! If we go in there theyll fall on us from every side while were distracted. Theres no reason to talk to the likes of them. Lets just charge in there and put these mad dogs down, or turn around ande back with reinforcements. Well be doing the country a great boon by eliminating these scum, sir Devus told the pdin.


    As long as you are seconded to my service I expect you to follow my lead, Sir Masnin replied coolly before turning back to Herad.


    The knight captain looked insulted but didnt speak back up. Instead, he just glowered unhappily at the bandit chieftain.


    If you do not let me in then I promise you will have far more to worry about than a few dozen knights and a provincial noble, the pdin told Herad in a steely tone.


    Ive heard much better threats than that, she replied dismissively.


    Neither she nor the pdin looked away. Instead, they just stared at each other severely for what seemed like hours to cknail, but was probably more like a minute. Eventually, it was Sir Masnin that broke the silence.


    Worldly affairs are not my concern. I am concerned only with the struggle of light against darkness and civilization versus ruination," he exined respectfully.


    Those men behind you seem to think otherwise, Herad pointed out.


    They have their responsibilities and I have mine. Though we all struggle to perform our duties they do not always lead us in the same direction. I beg permission to enter your camp alone as an honored guest, the pdin responded.


    You cant be serious! sir Davus hissed in rm but everyone ignored him.


    Heradughed again and smiled with obvious amusement.


    Why not? Ive never had an honored guest before, she answered with a chuckle.


    She then waved to the archers up in the tower and they lowered their weapons. Sir Masnin took the opportunity to dismount and pass his reins to hispanion.


    A few secondster, he was walking past the barricade and the bandits behind it without apparent fear. He might as well have been taking a stroll through a garden for all the concern that showed on his face. cknail kind of wanted to poke him and see what happened.


    As the pdin approached Herad, he drew his de. Her bodyguards tensed, but then sir Masnin flipped it around and carefully presented the hilt to her.


    Keep it, Herad told him as she motioned him forward into the camp and smiled viciously. Everyone else here is armed to the teeth, anyway.

 Playing With Fire 4

    ying With Fire 4


    The pdin, Sir Masnin, cautiously followed Herad as she led him deeper into her camp. He got a few hostile res but most of the bandits seemed more concerned about the squad of angry looking riders parked in front of the entrance to their base than the single man following their leader on foot.


    Few, if any, of them thought of him as a threat to their chief. She had a certain reputation after all.


    Like most the other bandits, Red Dog and the other lieutenants seemed focused on watching the knights at their gate. They were arguing about how best to fight the riders but cknail didnt care about that.


    The knights were just sitting there on their horses and glowering at everything and everyone nearby. That was really boring to watch and cknail didnt want to look at their ugly and smelly horses anyway.


    Somehow, these horses looked even more arrogant and mean than most. The hobgoblin had to resist the urge to throw a rock at the one in the lead to show it who was boss. He held back though, because that would probably lead to a misunderstanding and get him in trouble.


    No, it was the pdin that interested cknail. The riders were just standing still but he was moving around and stuff. He was sure Herad and her guest would soon do something exciting and he nned to be there when it happened.


    cknail could hear snippets of their conversations as he stalked them through the camp. The hobgoblin kept his distance; he wanted to keep out of sight. If Herad noticed him then she might send him away, and that would be no fun.


    The pdin threw a quick look over his shoulder, and cknail ducked out of sight behind a tent. After a few seconds of looking around, sir Masnin apparently didnt see anything suspicious because he just frowned in confusion and then turned back to Herad.


    The bandit chieftain led the pdin around the camp for a few more minutes. The only ce Herad didnt take him was inside Mahediums workshop. After the tour wasplete, she showed him the scarred circle of earth where the burnt remains of the ghouls and everything they had touched were buried.


    Just as cknail had predicted, they didnt find anything of interest. If any ghoul bits or infection was still around the hobgoblin would have smelled it long ago. He was the best, and only, ghoul sniffer around.


    cknail slipped up beside a small group of nearby bandits where he wouldnt stand out. From there he could get a good view of what was going on.


    Masnin was standing on the filled in pit. The dirt below his feet was dry and grey and nothing had started to grow there yet.


    Hmmm, Im quite surprised your... group handled this as well as you did, the pdin mused as examined therge circle of broken earth. You dont seem very well equipped to deal with an outbreak like this. Much smaller packs of the ursed things have been the bane of cities.


    Those cities didnt have my leadership. I kept order here and we have a few old hands around who have dealt with the dark gue before. They knew a few useful tricks, Herad exined as she drew a dagger and started nimbly twirling it through her fingers.


    Hey, what was this now? cknail scowled at his chieftains words. Why hadnt she mentioned him? He had done more than anyone else to get rid of all the ghoul gunk and find the stupid humans who had gotten it all over themselves!


    Still, it is very impressive, sir Masnin replied as he looked up and nced around the camp.


    Then youre easily impressed, because this is nothingpared to what Im really capable of, Herad remarked smugly.


    Yes, I think Ive heard quite a bit about you, Herad the ck Snake. Unfortunately, most of it was far fromplimentary, the pdin said as he frowned in disapproval.


    Nobodys perfect, and you know how inurate the rumor mill gets, Herad replied with an amused smile.


    Perhaps. Anyway, it certainly seems like everyone here is healthy. Im a little concerned about that man over there, though. He has had his hood up and a scarf across face the entire time Ive been here, sir Masnin told her as he pointed cknail''s way.


    The hobgoblin went stiff as a board as the pdin singled him out. How had the man seen him? Hed been at his sneakiest! Maybe he needed to dirty up his clothes some more so they didnt stand out. Most of the nearby humans clothes were grimier than his.


    Herad didnt bother to turn and look over towards who the pdin was pointing towards; she knew who it was.


    Oh him, hes just butt ugly, she replied nonchntly. He hates showing people his face and trust me you dont want to see it, anyway. You dont have to worry about him being sick.


    cknail scowled at her words. That was totally not the reason he wore his hood up most the time! There was nothing wrong with his handsome green face. Surely, she could havee up with a better excuse...


    I see. I guess Ill take your word for it, the man remarked doubtfully.


    Indeed, youre going to have to, Herad warned him. There was a cold edge to her voice underlying her pleasant tone as she spoke this time.


    Judging by the doubtful look on his face, sir Masnin was clearly unconvinced by her exnation and still more than a little suspicious of the cloaked figure. He didnt appear ready to press the issue, though. Either Herads behaviour or the fact that he waspletely surrounded by violent armed bandits had him worried.


    Everything appears to be in order, then. Thank you for permitting me entry and destroying the ghouls I was tracking. Your efforts have helped spread the light of Helio-Lustria. Sir Masnin told Herad as he gave her a slight polite bow.


    This caused the bandit chieftain to smile in amusement.


    Thats me, Im a bloody saint, she replied sarcastically as she brushed a few strands of dark hair out from in front of her eyes.


    One does not need to be perfect to walk in the god of lights illumination, and its never toote to devote your life to him, sir Masnin exined reverently.


    Trying to tempt me away from a life of crime, eh? I think Id rather just stay here and rob people for a living. It pays better and it seems like a lot more fun, Herad countered.


    As you wish. I have seen everything I need to see and with your permission I shall take my leave, the pdin told her.


    Maybe I dont want you to leave. I think I like having a handsome young knight such as you in my power. What do you think about that? Herad asked sir Masnin as she leaned in closer to him and smiled.


    Um... the red faced pdin stuttered as her words threw him off bnce.


    I could definitely find a use for you and that sword of yours. Perhaps youd like to stay a little longer, Herad continued as she licked her lips.


    The pdins eyes widened. cknail could hear the rapid pounding of the mans heartbeat from several paces away.


    Pardon me, but I should really go. I have to report back to my order sir Masnin answered after a brief pause and with obvious reluctance.


    That will be difficult since your escort just rode off without you, Red Dog interjected as he walked over to his boss.


    Saeter was right beside the other man and both them looked annoyed. Vorscha appeared to have stayed behind, though. Herad instantly turned to look at her lieutenant. The pdin remained perfectly still except for his brow, which tightened in concern.


    Exin, Heradmanded Red Dog.


    This guys escort started arguing amongst themselves a few minutes back. It got kind of heated and then they just turned around and rode off down the road and out of sight. From the looks they were giving the men Im sure they dont n oning back any time soon unless its to attack us, her lieutenant replied.


    One of Herads eyebrows rose as she turned and gave the pdin a suspicious stare.


    Can you exin this? she asked him.


    The holy warrior sighed deeply before replying.


    This was due to no action on my part. Sir Devus must have decided that I wasnting back and decided to leave. He must have thought youd acted against me and that he would be next. I obviously underestimated that mans paranoia and impatience, he exined to Herad.


    I dont suppose they left me my horse? Sir Masnin then asked Red Dog hopefully.


    No, Red Dog replied simply which caused the pdin to sigh again.


    It seems youll be staying here a little longer after all, while we figure out what to do with you. Im going to have to ask for that weapon of yours now, though. Herad told the pdin.


    As you wish, the troubled looking pdin said as he drew his sword and handed it over.


    Hmm, Im going to have to put you somewhere now, Herad mused yfully, like a cat with a mouse. My house would be the most secure ce. Of course, since its full of my valuables Id have to watch over you if I put you there. Its out of sun though, and nice and private.


    s, Id hate to intrude upon you. Anywhere out here is fine, sir Masnin replied quickly.


    cknail scratched his head as he listened. Why would anyone take up Herads offer? Sure, her house was nice and cool but if Herad was there no one would be able to rx. Humans were weird.


    Thats too bad. I do like to please my guests, Herad told the now nervous looking pdin with a smirk.


    Red Dog, make our guest herefortable and assign him a pair of guards, Herad told him. I need to go check on our defenses in case those knights show up again. I have a feeling they will.


    Yes, boss, the bandit replied as his chieftain turned and began walking away.


    cknails master stepped forward as Herad left and red suspiciously at the pdin.


    I dont like him, Saeter then remarked.


    You dont like anyone, Red Dog replied dryly.


    I like plenty of people, the old scout countered in an offended tone.


    Such as? the other man asked doubtfully.


    Now that Herad was gone, cknail also decided to stop sulking around. He began walking over to Saeter and the others and his master noticed the hobgoblins approach.


    cknail, for one, Saeter answered triumphantly.


    Right, is there anyone human on that no doubt gigantic list? Red Dog asked derisively.


    Saeter froze for a second and a look of concentration came over his face.


    Bah, I dont have to answer your stupid questions, he muttered a secondter before stomping off.


    I rest my case, the other bandit snorted dismissively.


    As ckanil watched, Red Dog then led the frustrated looking pdin over to an empty tent. Well, if his master didnt like the man then cknail decided he was going to keep an eye on him. The hobgoblin didnt know why Herad hadnt just had the man killed but he was clearly suspicious. Who knew what he could be up to?


    I dont suppose you have any ck tea? the holy warrior asked as he sat down out in front of the tent and pulled his helmet off.


    Nothing you want to drink, Red Dog replied.


    The bandit then looked around and called two nearby men over and told them to keep an eye on sir Masnin.


    Stay here and keep out of trouble. Youre lucky the boss likes you and that most the men have nothing against the holy orders or youd already be dead, Red Dog grunted at the pdin before leaving.


    The other man didnt bother to reply. Instead, he knelt down in front of the tent, closed his eyes, and started praying. The two men Red Dog had selected took up position on either side of sir Masnin. Neither of them seemed too worried about the enemy in their midst. In fact, they looked more bored than anything.


    Really, they were so bad at being guards that they should never have been chosen in the first ce. cknail was going to do everyone involved a favor and take their ce. Even the guards probably had better ces to be.


    A few minutester sir, Masnin got up and crawled into the tent. One of the guards stepped around the tent to make sure nothing suspicious was going on behind it, and cknail made his move.


    The hobgoblin calmly and silently walked up behind the man, while he was out of sight of his partner, and smacked him across the back of his head with a small club. There was a muffled grunt of pain as the man copsed but cknail caught him before he hit the ground.


    With that done, cknail slipped around the tent and into the other guards blindspot. The man was still staring off in the same direction with a ck look on his stupid face, so cknail knocked him unconscious with smack form his club as well.


    Wow, these two bandits had been really bad at their jobs. What had they even been on guard against, working too hard?


    cknail sighed exasperation as he dragged the unconscious idiots out of sight behind a pile of wood, where it was nice and shady. He was considerate like that.


    Then, he riffled through the mens pockets for anything interesting. He wasnt nning on keeping the stuff he found, though. If he left them there a thief mighte along and take their stuff while they were sleeping. As their loyal tribesmate cknail wasnt about to let that happen. He would hold on to their stuff for them untilter...


    What are you doing? a youthful and curious voice asked from behind the hobgoblin as he was looking through a small coin purse.


    As cknail turned towards the source of the voice, a shiver of frustration and annoyance worked its way up his spine and caused him to twitch. Shit, there was only one person in camp who sounded like that.


    Behind him stood Khita, and she was giving him a curious yet smug look. cknail looked down at the knocked out men strewn at his feet and grimaced.


    Umm, they-ss looked like they could use a nap-ss, so I helped them. Im going-ss to take their-ss ce and guard the prisoner, he hesitantly told the grinning girl.


    Sharp, let me join you, Khita told him.


    Desperately, cknail tried to think up a reason for her to leave. He didnt want the annoying girl around but if he told her to leave now it might bring him unwanted attention. Oh well, if something went wrong he could always me it on Khita.


    Fine-ss, lets go, cknail grunted quietly as he turned to walk back towards the entrance to the tent sir Masnin was using.


    Just a second, Khita replied as she pulled her own hood up.


    Together, the pair took up position in front of the pdins tent. A few secondster there was a rustling from within and sir Masnin re-emerged.


    Its not the cleanest tent Ive ever had but Ive seen worse. Hopefully I wont be here all that long anyway, the pdin said as he exited the tent.


    He then froze and blinked a few times after looking up and seeing cknail and Khita standing there.


    Youre not the same guards from before, sir Masnin remarked in confusion.


    Maybe we are... Khita replied vaguely in as deep as a voice as she could.


    They-ss fell, cknail exined truthfully at the same time.


    Right... the befuddled pdin replied as he stared at his new guards.


    cknail stared intently right back. His loose fitting clothes, scarf, and cloak concealed his inhuman form. Now that he was on guard there was no way this man was going to get away with anything bad.


    Sir Masnin kept ncing back between his two new guards, as if he couldnt decide which one was weirder. Both cknail and Khita were noticeably shorter than the men theyd reced, and Khita had a clearly feminine voice.


    Youre the... man from earlier, and Im fairly sure youre not a man at all, the pdin remarked hesitantly as he looked at Khita.


    Whats that supposed to mean? Khita replied angrily while cknail remained silent.


    Nothing, I just meant its unusual to see someone your age in such a ce, he exined politely.


    Im unusually dangerous, the young woman huffed angrily as she pulled off her hood and stared at the pdin.


    I believe you, the confused pdin muttered as he sat down and shook his head.


    Sir Masnin then closed his eyes and started to pray again. It only took a few minutes for Khita to grow bored and wander off but cknail kept up his watch. He was sure the pdin was up to something and just waiting for him to lose focus.


    After a few more minutes of intense staring, cknail decided that the man wasnt going to do anything as long as it looked like he was paying attention. Thus, the hobgoblin turned around and pretended to sit back against a log and rx.


    Almost immediately, the hobgoblin saw sir Masnin open his eyes and turn to look his way. He clearly found cknail both unsettling and interesting. The man studied the hobgoblin for several minutes but appeared to simply grow more confused as time went on.


    "I have to admit I haven''t visited many bandit camps but this one seems very odd to me," sir Masninmented. "You''re all very different from what I expected and I have absolutely no idea what to make of you, personally. I don''t suppose you want to tell me who you are?"


    "I''m watching-ss you," a slightly insulted cknail hissed as he sat back up and red at the pdin.


    He was going to say more but stopped when he heard the sound of footsteps approaching. A few secondster his master appeared and gave the hobgoblin a surprised look. He clearly didnt expect to see him there guarding the prisoner, but it was the pdin he turned towards.


    Your friends are back and theyve brought reinforcements. Its looking like there is going to be a fight, so we have to decide what to do with you, the old scout exined coldly.


    Sir Masnin rose from where he was sitting and stared back at Saeter. As they red at each other the pdins left hand inched towards his empty scabbard but then stopped and disappeared into a pocket at his waist.

 Playing With Fire 5

    ying With Fire 5


    cknail reacted quickly to the fight brewing between the two men in front of him. He growled menacingly as he pulled himself to his feet and reached for the pommel of his de. The hobgoblins cloaked body was tense and hunched over as he readied himself to spring forward.


    Sir Masnin threw a startled look the hobgoblins way at the unexpected noise, and he hesitated. His eyes tore themselves away from Saeter and tried to peer past cknails heavy clothes without sess. Unnerved, the pdin hesitated and then turned back to the old scout.


    Sir Devos is a young fool the pdin muttered as he reluctantly let his hands drop to his sides. If he is truly attacking you and yourpatriots then its his own folly, although I fear I have been caught up in it.


    cknail smiled proudly to himself. Obviously, hed terrified the man into submission without even needing to fight. He sure was a scary warrior!


    Hes got us all involved in this mess, Saeter huffed back. Now,e with me. Herad wants to see you.


    As cknail watched, the pdin nodded in agreement and then began to follow the older man. The hostility from moments before had yet topletely fade, though. Saeter kept one wary eye on the pdin while cknail red suspiciously at the mans back as he followed.


    Saeter led sir Masnin back through the camp and towards the entrance. There, Herad and her lieutenants were yelling orders at dozens of bandits that were running around. One of the ouws near the chieftain had a trumpet and was signaling the call to arms. The annoyingly loud tones of the instrument filled the clearing and echoed off into the trees.


    Almost everyone seemed focused on the eastern entrance to the camp, so cknail peered in that direction as well. However, the long dusty road that ran through the forest looked empty.


    The hobgoblin grunted in annoyance. Hopefully this wasnt another stupid human waste of time. The trumpet was starting to give him a headache.


    How do you know Lord Strachans men are on their way back? I dont see them, sir Masnin asked.


    Saeter grunted in annoyance before answering.


    Herad had mounted scouts sent out to trail your friends the second they left. Apparently, they didnt go all that far. They picked up a few more men from the first vige they crossed and then headed straight back here. Now, theyre sitting up on the hill that lies down that road. Its just out of sight from here, Saeter exined.


    You must mean Datshire. Its the vige we stopped at yesterday. We left our supplies and some of our retainers there, the pdinmented.


    I know it was Datshire. There arent many viges left hereabouts and Ive been to them all, Saeter replied scornfully.


    Before sir Masnin could reply, Herad shouted in their direction.


    Come here, pdin, the bandit chieftain yelled as she motioned him closer.


    Mistress Herad, if mypanions are really returning I need to talk to them. There is no reason for this to devolve into a fight, the pdin told her as he approached.


    That would be nice, Herad replied sarcastically. I didnt call you over to y peacemaker, though. If these damned idiots n on charging to their doom I want you within arms reach where I can keep an eye on you.


    I know you outnumber sir Devos force but they are trained and mounted knights, the pdin exined. Your victory is far from a sure thing and would undoubtedly cost you in blood and souls. It would be better for everyone involved if it didnte to violence.


    You underestimate the options at my disposal, the bandit chieftain replied. I was quite happy letting you fancy high bloods leave unmolested but your friends had other ns. This my territory and youre intruding, so whether you like it or not theres going to be a fight, one I intend to win.


    If you let me talk to them Im sure I can prevent any bloodshed. If they see Im free to leave then they will turn around. This expeditions goal was to root out ghouls, the enemy of all mankind, not skirmish with bandits, sir Masnin begged.


    Or, then Id have one more enemy to worry about and unless I miss my guess youd be more dangerous than any of the others, Herad countered angrily. The order of Helio-Lustria rarely epts anyone but the best and then they make sure their warriors are equipped with everything they might need to fulfill their duties, like Elixir.


    I give you my oath that I wouldnt betray your hospitality, the pdin told her.


    Even when yourpatriots are dying right in front of you? Youd do nothing? Thats not a risk I intend to take, Herad replied with a scowl. Besides, even if sir Devos leaves now hell probably just be backter with more men and time to prepare. Weve insulted him by existing, and he sees our deaths as a chance to build up his name.


    Sir Masnin sighed and looked frustrated but he didnt seem to have anything else to say. His shoulders hung loosely under the weight of both her words and his chainmail shirt.


    A sudden burst of activity got everyones attention. The noise and movement around Herad had grown quieter while she had been talking to sir Masnin but now it redoubled. The cause was obvious.


    It seems like they got their shit together, Herad growled as she stared down the road.


    Arge formation of soldiers had appeared around the bend in the road and marched into sight. cknail had to squint to see that far but there was no mistaking who it was; the knights were back.


    In the front rode arge formation of mounted men. They were even more heavily armoured than thest time cknail had seen them. Almost all of them had steel te armor and helmets with visors that concealed their faces. Above them the g of Lord Strachan waved and snapped in the wind.


    Behind the riders came a smaller formation of foot soldiers. Their armor was much lighter but they were still heavily armed. Some of them held spears while others had swords and round shields.


    There were definitely fewer of them than there were knights. cknail wasnt that good at counting so he wasnt sure of the exact number. After staring at his hands and wiggling his toes, he swiftly concluded that there were a lot more than twenty, though.


    As bandits all around cknail rushed to prepare for battle, the horsemen suddenly charged forward and clouds of dust rose up behind them. Their horses hooves pounded against the earth and roared like thunder as they closed in on the camps entrance and the men guarding it.


    Everyone get to your positions, now! Herad suddenly roared as she waved her sword above her head.


    A good dozen bandits with spears had taken up position behind the wooden barrier that partially blocked the way into the camp. Alongside it, men were climbing up into the watch towers and stringing bows.


    cknails eyes went wide and his ears went t against the back of his head as he watched the charging enemy. He was fairly far from the front line, but not nearly far enough.


    The knights were closing in quickly and they certainly didnt look like they expected the spearmen to stop them. cknail was rather sure he agreed with them. The speeding wall of steel, horse flesh, and drawn des terrified him. Something seemed to be squeezing his heart and stifling his breath.


    The hobgoblin quickly looked around. While he had been focused on the enemy almost all his tribesmen had wandered off. Only a terrified looking Khita was left , and she wasn''t good for anything!


    Saeter had somehow ended up off to one side with a squad of archers. Herad, Red Dog, and the pdin were now surrounded by the chiefs bodyguards and headed towards the center of the camp. cknail wasnt sure where he was supposed to go...


    Suddenly, there was heavy crashing sound which was swiftly followed by screams as the knights mmed into the barricade and then blew right through it. Uh oh, that wasnt good.


    The riders were now barreling straight toward cknail so the hobgoblin decided to retreat in an orderly fashion.


    Eeeekk, he squeaked in unrestrained terror as he fled as quickly as he could.


    There was no way he was going to stay back there! That furious stampede of horses would crush him into paste! Their riders also looked sort of dangerous.


    The hobgoblin hesitated only for the split second it took to push Khita and get her moving as well before dashing off the road. The stupid woman had been in his way.


    As they broke into the clearing, the charging rides were greeted by a hail of arrows from bandits positioned at the edge of the woods. Almost instantly, the knights formation split into two and elerated out of the way.


    The knights avoided most the arrows and the rest failed to prate their armor. However, their sudden course change meant they were no longer directly headed towards cknail and Khita. The pair kept running, though. At least one of them wasn''t stupid.


    Behind them, the enemy footmen charged into the remaining bandits at the broken barricade. A melee broke out as the two sides began fighting for control of the entrance to the camp.


    The bandits there were outnumbered and were steadily giving ground until arge group of reinforcements detached themselves from the woods and rushed over. The new group of ouws smashed into the side of the soldiers and the fighting intensified.


    The two formations of horsemen were rampaging through the camp now. They had split up and headed in different directions but they were now circling around to meet back up.


    The speed and weight of their mounts made them seemingly unstoppable. They rode through the camp unopposed, trampling tents and cutting down stragglers as they moved.


    Herad and Red Dog had reached the center of the camp and had joined up with more of her men. Her house and several sturdy timber buildings guarded their nks. So far, the knights were sticking to the outside of the camp where the buildings were thinner and their path was clear.


    A minuteter, a gasping hobgoblin made his way over there as well with a still shocked Khita right behind him.


    As cknail leaned against a building for support, he spotted several of the bands horses off to one side. They were tied up and didnt seem like a threat but he kept an eye on them anyway, in case they decided to join their fellows in trying to kill him. You couldnt trust horses.


    We cant form up andunch a counter attack with them charging around like that; we need to slow them down, Red Dog cursed.


    Herad frowned and turned to her left where Mahedium was standing.


    I dont suppose youve gotten something impressive hidden up your sleeves? Herad asked the mage.


    Mahedium took a moment to study the nearest group of riders that were tearing their way through the camp.


    It depends... I could try and hit them with some force bolts but unless theyre headed straight for me then Im unlikely to be very urate. I would end up wasting a lot of valuable crystals for little gain. As for fire... Its a bad idea if you dont want me to burn the camp down, Mahedium replied reluctantly.


    What about slowing them down? Can you create some mud or freeze the ground? Red Dog asked the mage. Ive seen that kind of thing work before.


    Unfortunately, I dont have the correct tools orponents to use such a strategy, Mahedium admitted.


    How useful, Herad shot back sarcastically. Just keep your head down and wait for a clear shot then, mage.


    Theyll have to confront us eventually, Red Dog pointed out.


    Not soon enough. Im going to go out and meet them. Be ready to attack when Ive stopped them, Herad told him.


    Her lieutenant frowned in disapproval but knew better than trying to argue directly with her.


    The pdin may not be their only Vessel. These are knights, one of them maye from a family line of Vessels in service to Lord Strachan. Mountedbat is also kind of their thing, Red Dog warned her.


    Do you have a better idea? the chieftain asked him.


    Lets see what were dealing before wemit, Red Dog suggested. If we send some men over to that pile of timber by that hill itll draw their attention. When the knights charge the men can cut the timber loose. Thatll slow the riders down so that most the men will survive long enough for you to hit the enemy from behind.


    Thats not a bad idea, Herad mused as she looked over all the suddenly nervous bandits around her. Who should we send?


    cknail grinned to himself from where he was standing out of sight behind a cluster of bandits. Red Dogs n sounded like it would be amusing to watch. He approved of any n that involved hitting a bunch of unsuspecting horses with logs.


    I suggest sending the hobgoblin there, Red Dog said as he pointed cknails way. Hes fast and horses act skittish around him,


    cknail stood up straight in rm. Wait... what was this now? This n was terrible; he wanted no part of it!


    Fine, you over there will join him, Herad told several bandits as she followed Red Dogs advice.


    There was nervous muttering from everyone who had been selected, except cknail. The hobgoblin was slowly and silently backing away. Herad hadnt technically given him an order yet. So, if she didnt look his way in the next few seconds he would be able to disappear around the corner of the building behind him...


    Everyone suddenly grew silent as the sound of Herad drawing her de filled the air. A secondter the bandit chieftain leveled it at the nearest group of subordinates shed chosen to use as bait.


    Get moving, now, shemanded as she red coldly at everyone shed selected.


    She gave cknail a particrly unamused look and all he could do was smile nervously back.


    Yep-ss, sure thing mistress, the hobgoblin replied as he pretended he hadnt been about to run away.


    Herad motioned with her de and the reluctant men and women stepped out from between the buildings with cknail in their midst. Secondster, they broke out into a run towards the wood pile. The sooner they got this over with the better.


    It didnt take very long for them to draw the attention of one of the groups of knights. Sure enough, the riders shifted their direction towards the now exposed bandits.


    cknail picked up speed and pulled ahead of everyone else. He had been nning to stay sheltered in the very middle of the group but on second thought he realized that was dumb. He doubted the humans around him would even slow the charging warhorses if they got trampled, no matter how fat they were.


    The hobgoblin sprinted towards the lumber pile as quickly as he could. His feet pounded against the ground as he ran but his footsteps were drowned out by the sound of the charging cavalry descending towards him.


    He snuck a quick nce over his shoulder to see a wall of heavily armoured knights bearing down on him. He didnt like this one bit! He was so going to get back at Red Dog for this!


    With speed brought on by desperation, cknail leaped forward and drew his sword. Hended on the lumber pile. His de sliced through the air and then the nearest clump of rope. The hobgoblin quickly moved on to the next knot and severed that as well.


    The first of the bandits reached the timber stack. They quickly began to hack away at its restraints as well. Sensing something amiss, the knights slowed their charge.


    There was a loud crack as thest of the ropes came loose and cknail kicked the top log off the pile. The timber rolled free and towards the knights with surprising speed. It was swiftly followed by others as the bandits got to work.


    The first swiftly rolling timber barrelled towards the riders. Startled knights pulled on their reins as they urgently guided their mounts out of the way.


    Most had no trouble evading it, or managed to jump it, but not all of them were so lucky. One rider in the middle of the formation was too crowded in and had nowhere to go. The log clipped his horse and took out its legs. There was shriek of pain from the horse as it tumbled over sideways and crushed its rider.


    A ragged cheer went up from the bandits as more timbers spilled down towards the knights and they were forced to turn away from their targets. However, none of the other riders went down and they swiftly reorganized.


    The bandits started pushing more logs down to keep them away, but the knights split up and encircled their targets. Infuriated by the loss of theirrade, they drove their mounts forward towards the sides of the timber pile that remained clear of falling timber.


    Desperate bandits tried to back up towards the top of the pile but the knights cut the closest ones down. The scent of blood oozed out as the sounds of fighting rang forth.


    Herads men frantically tried to slow the advance of the armored riders. With their shinning, if now bloodstained armor, and warhorses the knights seemed unstoppable. Bandits fell one after another as the knights advanced atop their corpses.


    Atop the pile, cknail loosed another timber and sent it sprawling down. When that failed to do anything, he drew his sling and started flinging stones.


    He got a satisfying whinny of pain from one of the horses when he struck its nk but the stones he sent towards the riders bounced uselessly off their armor. Whelp, that was bad. He waspletely out of ranged weapons and he really didnt want to get in a sword fight with these enemies...


    To cknails left, a bandit screamed as a knights de sunk into his shoulder. The man was then silenced by another blow to the side of his neck that almost decapitated him and sent a spray of blood towards cknail.


    There was no one between the hobgoblin and danger now. Warily, cknail drew his sword and turned to face his heavily armed attacker.


    The knight''s mount snorted as it stepped forward and it gazed evilly at the hobgoblin with its huge insane looking eyes. Its visible breath steamed out from its ugly ring nostrils and rose up into the air.


    cknail really hated horses.

 Playing With Fire 6

    ying With Fire 6


    cknail jumped backwards as the mounted knights de sliced towards him. It cut through the edge of his hood but didnt draw blood. A secondter, hended lightly on another timber atop the now depleted pile.


    Hisnding wasnt perfect, though. The hobgoblin let out a surprised grunt as his back hit that of another bandit. The man shrieked in rm as he was sent sprawling down to the ground. The unlucky bandit was then promptly trampled to death by the attacking knights'' horses.


    cknail winced at the sight. Oops, it was getting kind of crowded up here...


    More and more of Herads men were retreating up what was left of the stack of logs. They were being pushed ever closer together by the circling ring of riders, and there wasnt room for all of them.


    As cknail watched, the bandits around the edges of the pile were cut down one by one. Meanwhile, the knights worked their way inwards. Their bloody des shed in the sun.


    The hobgoblin struggled to keep his bnce and his guard up, but someone knocked into him from the side. He hissed in frustration as he barely managed to duck under another swing of a knights sword.


    The man behind him wasnt fast enough. The de tore into his chest and he toppled from the lumber pile.


    Beneath his feet, cknail spotted a gap between a pair of logs. He let the people around him worry about the knights for a second as he kept his head down and examined it.


    It was too small for most humans, but they were all fat anyway. cknail on the other hand was healthy and thin. If he squeezed through there it looked like he could work his way deeper into the pile and hide.


    Blood sttered down on the hobgoblin so he nced up. A knight had eviscerated the man standing to his left.


    Time-ss to hide! cknail eximed as he turned back to the gap.


    Yep, going down there seemed like the best idea. It would even free up some room at the top of the pile for his tribemates, so it would be doing them a favor. For his fellow bandits, the hobgoblin dropped down and hurriedly started squeezing into the gap below him.


    Halfway down, the sound of familiar madughter caused him to hesitate. Through the press of bodies around him, cknail looked up to see Herad leap off a charging horse andnd behind a startled knight.


    As the knights horse bucked and the man iled in surprise, the grinning chieftain grabbed him around the waist with one hand and stabbed a long knife into his neck with the other. The de slipped through a gap in his armor and sunk deep into his flesh.


    Stillughing, Herad tossed the riders corpse aside and seized the horses reins. As she steadied herself, her mounted bodyguards mmed into the knights rear. Behind them came the rest of the forces Herad had been keeping in reserve.


    Charge the bastards and pin them down, follow me! Herad roared as she led the counter attack.


    The knights were now badly outnumbered. Several of them fell or were pulled from their horses by the attacking throng. They quickly rallied though, and began to cut their way free from the bandits. They had been caught off guard but they were still masters of the battlefield.


    The hobgoblin found himself with his hip awkwardly jammed in between two logs as the bandits around him surged downwards to rejoin the fight. Several of them almost kicked him in the head.


    One of the bandits was a tall woman. She noticed the hobgoblin and gave him an irritated look.


    What-ss? I slipped, cknail told her defensively as he pulled himself free.


    Bloody hobgoblins, the obviously unconvinced woman muttered as shook her head and jumped down the pile.


    Bah, who cared what she thought anyway! Once free, cknail looked around for something to do. For some reason he felt the need to prove himself now. Besides, he kind of wanted to kill a knight. Herad had made it look so fun.


    The enemy were no longer scattered around the wood pile. They had quickly formed up into a wedge and were managing to keep most of Herads men away.


    There were a lot of bandits and pointy weapons between the hobgoblin and the knights now, too many. It would take too much time to push his way through and it would also be stupidly dangerous.


    What were his other options, though? Ah, he could copy Herad! cknail leaped off the timber pile and into the crowd below him.


    Hended on a startled mans back. Before the bandit could even react the hobgoblin jumped again. This time he reached out and grabbed the back of a nearby knights saddle.


    His ws sunk into the leather and cknail pulled himself up and onto the horse. The hobgoblins light body and long strong arms allowed him to move nimbly through the air. The stupid beast bucked and neighed in rm, which threw its rider off bnce.


    What the hells? the surprised knight eximed fearfully as cknail took a seat behind him.


    Just like Herad, the hobgoblin grabbed the man around the waist and then stabbed him in the neck. He then pushed the humans heavy but limp body off the mount.


    With that done the smiling hobgoblin reached for the reins of the horse. When he got the stinking beast safely away from the fight he was going to slit its throat as well. The knights horses counted as enemybatants as far as he was concerned. Hed seen the evil look in their eyes.


    Before he could grab the reins though, the mount beneath the hobgoblin neighed in terror and began to buck madly. cknail tried to keep his seat but this was his first time ever riding a horse.


    The humans had made it look so easy! cknail struggled but was swiftly knocked loose and catapulted off the beasts back. Damn all horses!


    For what seemed like several seconds, the air rushed past the free flying hobgoblin. Then he hit the ground. His back mmed into the earth and the breath was knocked painfully from his lungs.


    Ughh, what? cknail groaned as he sat up.


    A wheezing gasp escaped his lungs and tiny bright stars whirled around his vision. Ow, that had really hurt. He should never have trusted a horse, even for a second. They were vicious treacherous beasts. Undoubtedly, they would soon turn on their human masters...


    A scream woke cknail from his head trauma induced thoughts. Right, he was still in the middle of battle. That was important. The fighting had moved away from him but that didnt mean he was safe.


    The hobgoblin cast a nervous look around as he picked himself off the ground. His clothes had gotten very dusty when hed fallen so he brushed himself off. Oh well, there would be time after the battle to pick out some new clothes.


    What was he supposed to do now? He didnt really feel like charging back into the fight. Hed already shown all his tribesmen how awesome he was by taking down that knight! He really hoped Herad had been watching, except for during thatst bit. He wished no one had seen that part.


    Movement shed in the corner of the hobgoblins eye. He quickly looked over to see what it was. He stared at the scene before him for several long confused seconds. Hmmm...


    Then he stared for several more. Well, this wasnt good. A squad of bandits ran in front of him and blocked his view for a second. They didnt slow or seem to notice anything odd.


    cknail shook his head to clear it. The vision in front of him didnt change. He looked around. No one else was paying any attention to what he saw. That was weird and more than little worrying...


    Maybe it was a stupid human thing? Perhaps this happened all the time to humans and they didnt find it weird. No, that was stupid. This thing was far too dangerous to ignore.


    Carefully, cknail backed up and went to find someone to ask. He heard Red Dogs voice screaming orders over the other noises of the battlefield, so he headed that way. He found the man at the back of a mob of ouws that were regrouping.


    The hobgoblin walked up behind him and politely tapped him on the shoulder. Red Dog flinched and jumped at the unexpected contact before whirling around.


    Ah, what the bloody hells do you want? Shouldnt you be busy stabbing people in the back and then eating them or something? the man asked with obvious aggravation.


    Im not-ss hungry, and I saw something weird-ss. It could-ss be important, the hobgoblin exined.


    This is a bloody battlefield! Im damned busy right now so youd better not be wasting my time, Red Dog replied angrily.


    Its right over-ss there, cknail told him as he pointed towards the oddity.


    Where? I dont see anything, Red Dog replied with obvious frustration.


    Its right-ss there; the giant snake eating that-ss guy! cknail hissed back. Now he was annoyed too. Had Red Dog gone blind?


    What? Red Dog eximed in surprise as he stared in the direction cknail had pointed. Theres no damned giant snake there!


    Yes, there is! Are you blind? cknail spat back as he waved his hands towards the monster.


    Themotion drew the attention of the green scaled creature. It had been leisurely lying next to an empty wagon while it swallowed the remains of a in bandit whole. Its forked tongue flickered in and out of its mouth as it drew itself up and turned to gaze towards cknail and Red Dog. It had noticed them looking in its direction.


    Red Dog froze and stared back at it with a confused expression on his face. His mouth kept opening and closing and he was blinking rapidly.


    Theres something there, he muttered to himself. Ugh, Im getting a headache.


    So was cknail. He didnt know what was going on. Even Red Dog didnt usually act quite this stupid. Also, no one else nearby had noticed the snake either. This called for desperate measures. Something was obviously very wrong here.


    The hobgoblin stepped over to the right where it would be easier for him to take cover behind a group of nearby bandits. He then drew his sling and did that which came naturally to him: violence.


    He snapped the sling around and sent a stone whirring towards snakes head.


    The projectile mmed into the beasts forehead with a muted thud and then dropped to the ground. The snake turned towards cknail. The scales where it had been hit were undamaged. It narrowed its red slit eyes as it regarded the tiny hobgoblin that had dared to throw a rock at it.


    Ssissiruss the gigantic snake hissed loudly as it drew itself up until it towered over a dozen feet off the ground. It looked mad.


    cknail moved to ce some meat shields between himself and the monster, but all of a sudden there was a change. He winced as his head began to throb painfully. Ow, it felt like his brain was slowly trying to vibrate out of his ears. Had the snake done something?


    He wasnt the only one affected either. All around the battlefield, the sounds ofbat slowed as the wave of mental pressure washed over everyone.


    The knights quickly pulled their mounts away frombat and disengaged as they tottered in their saddles. Herads men didnt give chase. They could only grit their teeth and fight to keep standing.


    Well, fuck me. Theres a giant snake right there, Red Dog groaned as he held his head and stared.


    People had begun looking around for the cause of the mental shriek that hade out of nowhere and they quickly found it. The massive emerald serpent looming over the battlefield wasnt subtle.


    Ssissiruss the beast hissed again. The sound of its voice was clearly audible to everyone in the now almost silent camp.


    One of bandits closest to the beast panicked. He turned to try and run. He didnt get far.


    Like emerald lightning the snake lunged and its maw seized the man. A secondter, it tossed him into the air. The man screamed as he tumbled almost straight upwards, but only for a brief moment. The beast twisted around, caught the bandit in its mouth, and then swallowed him whole in one gulp.


    The other nearby humans didnt learn from his mistake. They panicked and began to run as well. As they fled, the monster in their midst began to il andsh out. Its tail smashed into one particr loud group and scattered them like broken twigs. Its fanged jaws closed on another bandit and then tossed his mutted body aside.


    cknail kept absolutely still. He turned to Red Dog and gave him a level gaze.


    Can you see the snake now? he asked.


    I can see it, you green ass, the man groaned as he messaged his furrowed brow.


    Then do something, the hobgoblin told him.


    What, why me? You bloody do something! Red Dog growled back.


    All through the camp, Herads minions and the attacking knights had ceased fighting. Everyone was either fleeing from the creature or regrouping. Both sides asionally threw each other hateful nces but they made no move to resumebat.


    I did-ss do something, Im helpful like that, cknail told Red Dog matter of factly. I hit-ss it with a rock and now you can see it. You can thank-ss meter. Now its your turn to do something.


    Ugh damnation, my head feels like a smiths anvil, Red Dogined. Helpful my ass, this is probably all somehow your fault. You bring thispany nothing but trouble!


    cknail watched the beast crush a pair of men under its bulk. He thought back to the creepy feeling that had bugged him as hed walked back from finding the cave. Oh, the cave...


    This isnt-ss my fault. Its probably yours, the hobgoblin replied defensively.


    Both he and Red Dog kept a watchful eye on the rampaging monster. For now it seemed to be heading away from them.


    Why would it by my fault? Red Dog remarked as his face grew flush with anger.


    Because you-ss smell funny all the time, thats why, cknail used him.


    I dont smell funny! the bandit eximed furiously.


    How would you even know? You have a useless human nose! the hobgoblin countered.


    Before either of them could say anything else they were startled by shouting from off to one side. cknail looked over to see that most of the knights had regrouped into onerge formation well away from any of the bandits.


    Now you face your doom, you base born scum, sir Devos yelled from the front of the group of knights. You have abandoned your loyalty to your good lords and turned against your fellow men. The gods have seen your evil ways and sent this terror to aid us in our quest to wipe you from the face of the earth. Once it is done feasting on your corpses we will ride thest of you down like dogs.


    What an asshole, I hope someone guts him like a fish Red Dog remarked as he studied the knight.


    cknail nodded in agreement. That sounded like fun.


    Suddenly, another voice rose to challenge the young knightmanders. It was sir Masnin. His steel war helm once again concealed his face and he had somehow reacquired his sword. It hung from the scabbard at his side.


    Cease this foolishness, sir Devos, the pdin roared. This battle is nothing but an extension of your arrogance and all the lives lost here shall weigh down your soul. Now you even speak of turning the rampage of a foul mutant to your own advantage! Where is your honor?


    You are the fool here, sir Masnin, the other knight replied Why do you turn your de from these criminals? They are honourless thieves and killers who prey upon the weak. Thends of men will be a better ce once I have killed them all. Certainly, there will be fewer widows weeping for honest men.


    Be that as it may, it is not my duty to y men and women. I am charged by holy writ to pursue the forces of darkness wherever they may be found and to take no side in the struggles of men while I work. You were seconded to me and that means you swore to do the same while at my side the pdin countered.


    This is not politics and these are not some foreigners with which we are in dispute. They are nothing but rabble to be crushed! sir Devos eximed angrily.


    "That is not your decision to make, it is mine. Now my duty is clear. Darkness has once again risen before me and I must test my de against its serpent. You should remember your oaths and aid me, the pdin announced as he let his gaze slide over the knights.


    His stare was harsh enough that several of the riders flinched but none broke rank and came to his side. With a regretful sigh the pdin turned from his formerpanions and faced the rampaging serpent.


    That was when Mahedium and Herad stepped out from a nearby crowd. The mage aimed his staff, and before any of the knights could react a furious explosion tore through their formation.


    It incinerated sir Devos first, he died instantly, and then its mes reached out and tore into the men around him. A dozen knights staggered and fell as their mounts screamed inhumanly high. cknail smiled as the scent of roasted horse flesh reached his nostrils.


    It was nice of him to line them all up like that, Herad remarked as she walked forward with a small group of spearmen at her side.

 Playing With Fire 7

    ying With Fire 7


    Sir Masnin drew his sword and spun towards Herads voice. Behind him, the remaining knights reeled in shock from the fiery explosion that had torn through their ranks. They had to fight to keep their terrified mounts under control.


    The knights were now leaderless and it showed. Several of them looked like they wanted to try and charge Herads mage before he could strike again, while others were pulling back towards their militia at the entrance to the camp.


    That was not necessary, sir Masnin growled at the bandit chieftain.


    The pdin had one hand firmly nted on his sword hilt and looked ready to draw it at any second. His usually calm face betrayed barely contained rage.


    Of course it was; the leader of those men just publicly announced his intent to attack me from behind when I tried to deal with the beast in our midst, Herad replied scornfully. Theres no reasoning with a man like that and I dont have the time to try.


    Im not without mercy though, so Ill let the others live if theyre out of my camp within the next minute, the bandit chieftain added a secondter in a louder voice that was clearly meant for more than just sir Masnins ears.


    The knights were certainly close enough to hear her. They had managed to form back up but had yet to attack or retreat. Herads words washed over them and were apparently enough to make up their mind; they broke and retreated. Leaving their dead behind, they swiftly rode towards the road and the men they had left there.


    Now, shall we deal with thetest horror the Deep Green has spat up? I believe its your holy duty, Herad told the pdin smugly.


    You expect me to fight by your side? he remarked with indignant surprise.


    Thats up to you, but Im sure that if this serpent escapes from here its going to kill a lot of innocent peasants and such, not to mention any wounded knights left behind, the bandit chief pointed out.


    Very well, as long as you allow all Lord Strachens men to retreat unharmed, the pdin replied as he ground his teeth in frustration.


    Herad nodded and then yelled, Mage, the beast now. This headache is getting very annoying.


    Immediately, Mahedium turned and unleashed another shimmering st. This time it was aimed at the serpent. It was snapping at a squad of sluggish looking spearmen when the magic mmed into its side.


    me washed over the monsters emerald scales and all around it. The serpents head twisted around under the impact, but a secondter it righted itself and turned towards the mage. Curls of me still hung in the air, but the monster lunged through them with lightning speed.


    Sissiruss, the massive serpent screeched as it sted through the few spearmen between itself and the mage.


    Mahedium face went white with terror but he dropped to one knee and tried to line up another shot. The monster was speeding towards him far too fast for him to be able to run.


    Another gout of me burst from his staff just as the creature was about to hit him. The serpent saw iting and tried to dodge aside. The st nced off the side of its head.


    Again, the beast was knocked backwards and this time its momentum was lost. It was now only two dozen feet from the terrified mage though, and it recovered almost instantly.


    That was all the time Herad needed. At full sprint, she leaped under the beast and stabbed upwards towards its exposed throat with a spear. The tip of the weapon sank several inches into flesh and then she rolled away without it.


    Behind her, a squad of bandit spearmen moved up to help. Their movements still looked slow but they rushed into the gap between the serpent and the kneeling mage. The serpent hissed again and Herad had to dodge ash of its tail.


    The monster slithered backwards slightly and tried to focus on Herad, but then sir Masnin attacked. He stepped forward and shed at the side of the gigantic snakes neck.


    True to his word, the pdin had joined the fight. The armored warriors de parted the scales on the beasts neck and drew blood, but only barely.


    Surrounded by enemies and with its target out of reach, the serpent began to il about madly. One unlucky bandit was sent flying by a wildsh of its tail. The others quickly fell back.


    Meanwhile beside cknail, Red Dog decided on a course of action and started running towards Mahedium. The hobgoblin followed him. It seemed like a good way to look busy without putting himself in danger.


    Together, the hobgoblin and the man helped the mage to his feet. His face was still pale but he seemed steadier than most of the other bandits. The mutants magic was still squeezing everyones brains.


    Can you finish the thing off? The boss is cutting it up but it doesnt seem to be bleeding much, Red Dog asked Mahedium.


    The mage shook his head and gripped his staff tightly.


    No, I dont have enough crystals to do much more. That things scales are too tough for any of the spells I have, he replied.


    Hells, I dont like our odds then. If the boss doesnt get in a lucky blow then we might have to abandon the base, Red Dog cursed.


    ...including myb, Mahedium muttered darkly.


    Are you sure you dont have anything in reserve? the bandit lieutenant asked.


    The mage frowned and his brow creased as he fell deep into thought.


    Nothing that would work from the outside, Mahedium mused aloud. But if we targeted a weak spot... maybe poison? No wait, the wed gems. If they detonated inside its mouth that would definitely kill it. The timing would be unpredictable, though. A mage would have to get very close...


    I suppose youre going to walk right up in front of it and throw the stones in its mouth? Red Dog asked the mage with obvious sarcasm.


    No, I dont think Ill be doing that. It probably wouldnt work anyway, Mahedium responded carefully.


    Then we need something else, Red Dog pointed out.


    cknail had an idea. He scratched his nose and tilted his head to the side as he thought it through. Yep, it would probably work and it would remove a thorn in his side as a bonus.


    Use Scamp, cknail interjected.


    Both the men turned towards him with questioning looks. The hobgoblin sighed and then rified his response for the two slow humans.


    Give-ss Scamp the crystals and throw him-ss at the snake. When he gets-ss swallowed by the thing hell get scared and then boom! cknail exined with all the appropriate sound effects and hand gestures.


    That might just work... Ill lose a valuable sample though, and Varhs might get upset, Mahedium said thoughtfully.


    Ill buy him a dog. Just do it, Red Dog countered.


    The mage nodded in agreement and then turned to the hobgoblin.


    cknail, youre the fastest runner. Get Scamp and bring him here. I already have several wed stones on me so hes all we need for this to work, Mahedium exined.


    Go now, Red Dogmanded him.


    The hobgoblin gave the man a messy salute, turned around, rolled his eyes, and then ran off to find himself a goblin. He had a good idea where Scamp could be found. After Mahediums demonstration the goblin had been led away by Varhs to be tied up.


    cknail raced through the camp. He passed scores of trampled tents, corpses, and moaning bandits. Some were injured from fighting but most seemed to just have terrible headaches. The serpents hostile magic was still slowly crushing everyone nearby.


    When he got to Varhs tent, it only took the hobgoblin a few seconds to find Scamp. All the unexpected noises from the battle had frightened the goblin, but not enough to make him bite through his leash. Instead, he had just been hiding under a nearby scrap of cloth.


    Whats happening? the terrified goblin thered as cknail pulled him out from his hiding spot and cut the rope that was tying him down.


    The hobgoblin ignored the question, picked Scamp up, and started running back to Mahedium. The surprised goblin was momentarily limp in his arms.


    Up ahead, Herad and the others were still struggling to keep the serpent at bay. It twisted and writhed across the ground as it struck out at any nearby humans. It hadnt managed to hit Herad nor sir Masnin yet but the bodies of several other bandits littered the ground.


    Ive got him! cknail announced as he reached the mage and brandished the goblin up above his head for everyone to see.


    Let me down! Scamp wailed as the hobgoblin held him tight.


    Here, Scamp. Take these, theyll um... protect you. You just need to make them glow, Mahedium told the goblin as he pressed severalrge crystals into his hands.


    Scamp gave the two men and the hobgoblin an uprehending look as he stared in surprise at the crystals in his hands. His eyes were wide with confusion and he looked overwhelmed.


    What now? cknail asked.


    The mage gave the goblin a wary look and then leaned close to cknail so he could whisper into his ear.


    Throw him at the snakes head and then run for it, Mahedium told him quietly as Scamps long ears twitched.


    Ah, I heard that! Stop! the goblin wailed, but cknail was already running.


    He dashed towards where his chieftain was fighting the serpent with a struggling goblin held above his head. As he whipped past sir Masnin, the man froze and did a quick double take.


    Herad twisted through the air as she dodged a snap of the mutants jaws. The snake pulled back and coiled itself up in preparation to strike again. Herad brought her de up into a guard as she readied herself for another strike. Her spearmen leapt forward to help.


    The serpent ignored the Vessels for a second and turned towards the bandits supporting them. Its eyes drifted across the spearmen, and those unwise enough to meet its searing gaze fell screaming.


    One man curled up on the ground and started weeping while cradling his head. A wailing woman began to gouge her own eyes out with her fingers, until a pale faced man beside her knocked her out with a blow to the back of the head. Even the bandits that were still standing flinched and their charge was broken.


    Sissiruss, the serpentine monster growled smugly as it turned back to face Herad again.


    That was when cknail got close enough to throw Scamp. He held the goblin by one leg and gave him a good twirl. Then he let go and Scamp sailed through air, smacked into the serpents snout, and fell to the ground with a muted grunt of pain.


    The mutant snake reared backwards in surprise and eyed the goblin on the ground in front of it suspiciously. There was a second of silence as it titled its head to the side and tried to figure out what had just happened.


    Sissiruss? the beast hissed in apparent confusion.


    Did he just throw a goblin? sir Masnin asked in startled disbelief.


    Scamp quickly rolled to his feet and looked around. His gaze met that of the curious serpent and he seemed to notice it for the first time. He froze and as they stared at each other the goblins eyes slowly grew so wide they seemed to fill his face.


    Ahhh! monster! run! Scamp suddenly shrieked in terror as he turned tail and tried to flee.


    cknail was already turning to run back to Mahedium, but out of the corner of his eye he thought he saw the crystals in Scamps hands flicker.


    Run and take cover; hes going to detonate! Mahedium yelled.


    Instinctively, the serpent targeted the fleeing prey. Any traces of confusion disappeared as it lunged towards the little goblin with jaws open wide enough to swallow him in one bite.


    Scamp wasntpletely stupid, though. He had survived in the woods for years before being taken in by Varhs. He knew better than to run in a straight line and luck favored him. The goblin happened to change direction just at the right moment.


    The beasts attack missed and caught empty air. Its scaled bulk whipped past Scamp without harming him. The serpent hit the ground, turned one yellow eye towards the goblin, red at it in annoyance, and then shifted its weight to strike again.


    Scamp turned to see what had happened. He met the serpents gaze, shrieked again, panicked, and then threw the contents of both his hands at its closest eye before turning to run again.


    One of the flickering crystals caught the serpents eye. Its long forked tongue flicked out and grabbed it. A secondter, the mana stone disappeared into its mouth.


    cknail kept running. Behind him, all the slow humans were starting to do the same.


    Several long seconds went by as everyone fled from the serpent. The beast had pulled itself up to its maximum height and was hissing in triumph. No one was fighting it anymore.


    Mahedium and Red Dog were already sheltering behind a small pile of crates. The mage was peering out around the side to see what was happening. A few more seconds went by. The hobgoblin raced past them without slowing down.


    Mahedium began to look confused when nothing happened.


    Huh, I thought that would work, the magemented with obvious disappointment.


    The goblin must have fucked things up, he didnt even get eaten right, Red Dog muttered darkly beside him.


    cknail tentatively slowed down. He was probably safe from any st at this distance, if there was even going to be one. cknail suspected Mahedium wasnt very good at magic. He was always whining about not hav...


    Crack! The air ruptured. Mahedium was thrown against the ground as the world was consumed by violence. Dust and debris rushed forward in an unstoppable wave that issued forth from the st zone.


    Aaaahhh, cknail yelled as the wind caught his cloak and threw him up into the air.


    A shocked iling Scamp flew past him, and was swiftly followed by a rain of bloody snake parts.


    Several secondster, the fun abruptly ended and the hobgoblin hit the ground with a heavy thud. cknail tucked his head in and rolled to protect himself. He bounced across the ground until he was lucky enough to hit a tent. Unfortunately, it felt like the tent had been full of frying pans.


    The hobgoblin groaned as he slowly disentangled himself from the canvas and rope. His head was ringing like a bell and his ears had popped, but cknail got unsteadily to his feet and looked around.


    No one else nearby was still standing. An eerie silence filled the camp, or the st had deafened the hobgoblin, he wasnt sure which.


    A crater now dominated the space the mutant serpent had filled. A scattering of scaly meat bits littered the ground around it, several of the pieces were on fire. Thest dozen feet of the snakes taily to one side of the crater. It was a burnt and sted wreck.


    Did we kill it? Red Dog asked from behind the barrel, or at least thats what cknail read from his lips.


    I think-ss its dead, the hobgoblin yelled in reply as he surveyed the st zone.


    Banditsy strewn across the ground. Most of them seemed alive though, judging by all the feeble movements they were making. The st had simply knocked them off their feet.


    Red Dog peeked out from his hiding spot. A secondter he got to his feet and brushed himself off. Mahedium copied him a few momentster.


    The damned headache is gone, thats for sure. Wheres Herad? Red Dog asked cautiously.


    Right here! the bandit chieftain growled as she stalked over to him.


    She looked mad enough to chew nails, and a little worse for wear. Her armor was scratched and covered in dust and grime. Red Dog cringed away from the furious expression on her face.


    Behind her, cknail noticed Scamps small form pick itself off the ground and dash madly away deeper into camp. Huh, the little thief was tougher than he looked.


    What in the name of all the gods was that? the bandit chieftain growled.


    Mahedium came up with a way to kill the beast, and it worked, her lieutenant quickly answered as the mage gave him an annoyed look.


    The hells, regardless of whether or not it worked, I dislike it when people start throwing around magical explosives. Especially when all the warning I get is ast second heads up, she responded with a snarl.


    We were nning to tell you, boss," Red Dog exined hurriedly. The hobgoblin just sort of ran ahead without asking.


    Hey, I-ss just did was I was told. They made-ss me do it! cknail quickly told Herad as he pointed towards Red Dog and Mahedium.


    The hobgoblin and Red Dog locked hateful stares, while the mage tried to distance himself from the other two. The chieftain scowled at all three of them and gritted her teeth.


    cknail didnt like where this was going. How dare Mahediume up with such a terrible n, and how dare Red Dog order him to do it! Now they had made Herad angry and they were trying to pin it on him!

 Playing With Fire 8

    ying With Fire 8


    Herad scowled at the three minions in front of her. Red Dog and cknail were alternating between staring hatefully at each other and looking nervously towards her. Mahedium was trying to stand back and pretend he hadnt been responsible for the fiery explosion at all.


    Sorry, boss. It wont happen again, Red Dog apologized fervently.


    I believe we were all under the serpents influence and its mental attack was impairing our judgement, Mahedium added respectfully but with a poorly concealed hint of worry.


    It was messing with everyones heads, yet they didnt all go around throwing exploding goblins in my direction, Herad replied coldly.


    The mages face was carefully nk and his posture stiff, but the rapid movement of his eyes betrayed his worry. He was obviously trying not to let his fear show. cknail could respect that but he had a different n.


    Oh-ss merciful chief, spare me please! cknail groveled as he dropped to his knees and pressed his forehead against the ground. I will-ss kill a hundred of your enemies in thanks andy their corpses at your feet,


    Herad blinked in surprise. The three humans looked down at the hobgoblin for several silent seconds. No one seemed to know how to respond.


    cknail kept groveling. He didnt think hed said too much. The hobgoblin was pretty much nning to do all that stuff anyway. It was what he did for fun.


    ...also, it was all Red Dogs fault, not mine, he added.


    Hey, you little green liar! eximed the bandit lieutenant in question.


    The corner of Herads scowl twitched. A secondter, an actual smile broke across her face and she let out a snort like chuckle. Red Dog shut up. cknail peeked up at her. He was fairly sure that meant she wasnt going to kill him.


    Youre amazingly lucky your stupid n worked so well, and that I cant afford to be rid all three of you, Herad announced. Ive killed people I liked much more than you for far less.


    Thank you, boss, Ill make it up to you, Red Dog interjected quickly before anyone else could say anything.


    Youre right about that, Herad replied. You owe me one for this, so how are you going to pay me back?


    Um, whatever you want... he replied uncertainly until Heradughed in his face.


    What, youre not going to promise the same as cknail? she asked with a vicious grin.


    Red Dog tried to stutter out an answer but Herad cut him off again. Mahedium was still standing off to one side and looked satisfied with his decision not to speak up.


    How about you and Mahedium just get this mess cleaned up. I need to deal with more pressing matters, she told them.


    cknail took advantage of the momentary shift in her attention to scuttle backwards out of sight. He then got up and slowly backed away. When the boss was mad begging and sucking up worked but it was even better if they simply forgot you existed.


    Behind the hobgoblin, Red Dog started yelling out orders and trying to get everything organized. The camp was in shambles. ttened tents and wounded bandits littered the ground. cknails hearing had fully recovered now so he could hear them moaning and groaning, but that wasnt all he heard.


    The hobgoblins ears twitched as he recognized sir Masnins voice. Huh, he hadnt been sure the man had survived the explosion. Oh, maybe he was wounded and bleeding out somewhere!


    The hobgoblin quickly crept over to the remains of the once tall lumber pile. He crouched behind it and peeked carefully over the top.


    Sir Masnin was over on the other side. Unfortunately, he didnt seem to be dying or anything, which was a shame. The man had a lot of very shiny equipment cknail would have loved to rescue from neglect.


    The pdin was in fact kneeling over the burnt and horribly mangled remains of the knights Mahedium had killed with his magical fire. The corpses smelled a lot like barbeque pork and that made cknail kind of hungry.


    In life we all make mistakes, for the gods made us wed, sir Masnin whispered solemnly. They will forgive you your pride and wrath, young warrior. When I was young I threw myself foolishly into danger as well. The only difference between us is I didnt drag others in my wake. May you find sce and belonging in the gods embrace, sir Devos.


    With his prayersplete the kneeling pdin gave a grunt of effort and stood up. As he moved, his chainmail shirt shifted over his dirty torn leathers and he snatched up his helmet from the ground at his side. The still young but weathered looking man then threw a piercing nce towards cknails hiding spot.


    I see you there, creature. You cane out of hiding; I wont attack you. Your mistress wouldnt like it. Besides, my vows dont mention hobgoblins, anymore than they mention rats. Theyre more of a job for exterminators than pdins, sir Masnin suddenly announced.


    cknail glowered at the pdin from behind the log. Their gazes met and the hobgoblin felt anger tighten his muscles. The mans gaze and words were clearly a challenge, one cknail intended to meet.


    The hobgoblin got up and started walking over to the pdin. This was his territory and he hadnt just defended it from a whole bunch of shiny people, horses, and a giant snake to back down now.


    He wasnt afraid of the man just because he was a Vessel with a sword sharp enough to cut through flesh like mud... because the pdin was right, Herad wouldnt like it if the man hurt him. Besides, cknail was confident in his ability to run away and yell for help, he was tricky like that.


    I knew there was something wrong about you when I saw you earlier. Did Herad send you to keep a watch on me again? sir Masin asked warily as he studied the creature in front of him.


    No, I was just checking to see if-ss you were dying, cknail replied as he came to stop in front of the pdin.


    The hobgoblins green face, long nose, and pointy ears were inly visible. His hood hade off earlier and he hadnt bothered to put it back up.


    So that you could offer your aid? sir Masnin asked doubtfully.


    Maybe the hobgoblin replied as he gave the man a nk look.


    The pdin stared cautiously at the hobgoblin for a few seconds. He seemed at a loss for words.


    Ive never actually talked to a hobgoblin before, or even seen one. Youre not much of a conversationalist, although I suppose thats to be expected sir Masnin remarked.


    I talk to human idiots all the time, so I dont-ss have much to say to you, cknail shot back.


    I take it back; youre a mouthy creature after all, the pdin replied. Im curious why you hang around with these men and women. Ive never heard of such a thing before; your kind is supposed to be violently solitary.


    The food is good, cknail replied with a shrug.


    He wasnt lying. The grub in Herads camp was much better than what hed eaten in the sewer, and he had to fight less for it. The goblins in the sewer had been mean little scrappers and the rats had been huge.


    The pdin grinned at the hobgoblins words and chuckled quietly.


    You seem like an interesting... fellow so Ill give you a warning, sir Masnin exined as he stared coldly into cknails eyes with sudden intensity. If you start killing people then I will hunt you down.


    The hobgoblin didnt blink as he stared back. The mans stare was now definitely a challenge. A savage grin broke out across cknails face that revealed the full length of his sharp jagged teeth. He enjoyed a good game of threats.


    You hunt me? How silly. Ill be right here-ss waiting for you with my tribe at my back. Attacking-ss them didnt work so well for you today, so save your little threats. I am not-ss afraid. I will kill as I wish and as I am told. Why shouldnt I y men when everyone else here-ss does the same, including you? You have to kill to live, it is the only way here, cknail exined with a gleeful chuckle.


    Youre smarter than you look, but while Herad and these thieves might seem strong to you in the grand scheme of things they are nothing. Their time on this earth is limited and they cant protect you. Soon enough, someone will bring them down, sir Masnin countered coldly.


    cknails hackles rose at the other mans harsh tone but he didnt back down. The mans threats against his tribe angered him.


    If-ss youe back here and try to y my tribe again I will hunt you and yours through-ss the Green and your dirty cities. For every death-ss or injury you deal I shall kill three people close to you hang their corpses for all to see, cknail growled at the man.


    That is a threat you have no chance of ever fulfilling. You are nothing but a weak little green runt, the pdin replied with his eyes narrowed angrily.


    cknails smile widened. Oh good, now hed gotten the man really angry.


    Do you ever-ss grow tired and sleep, human? I have seen that all men do. I would follow your putrid human stench to your home. Your pathetic human eyes would-ss never see me as I watched and waited, cknail hissed back.


    The pdin and the hobgoblin stared at each other for several moments, with neither of them yielding. cknail was ufortably aware of the warriors greater strength and skill, but he was also confident the man wouldnt start a fight here where he was so outnumbered.


    Hmm, I can see youre not going to back down. Just try not to stick out too much or youll be hammered down, the pdin warned the hobgoblin as he turned and started walking away.


    The hobgoblin grinned to himself as the man left. He had totally won the game of threats. The man hadnt been terrible at it either, so it had been a lot of fun.


    When the pdin was out of sight the hobgoblin went back to his original activity, trying to find stuff to loot. cknail wandered around the camp searching bodies and rubble for anything that caught his interest. He didnt manage to find much though, because he was soon rudely interrupted.


    The sound of familiar voices approaching reached his ears and he looked up to see Vorscha and Geralhd walking his way. Both of them seemed more than a little roughed up, especially Vorscha. They were both covered in dirt and sweat but her left arm waspletely bandaged up and pinned to her chest.


    You really shouldnt be moving around so much, Geralhd pointed out as he leaned in close to examine her bandages. Your arm is broken and needs to be kept still. Youre lucky you were only hit by the edge of a shield.


    Its fine, you had my back anyway. Now, I have stuff to do now. Officers have responsibilities so I cant afford to ck off right now, Vorscha replied as she kept walking.


    The pair stopped behind the hobgoblin as he was rummaging through a sac that had been dropped on the ground. Vorscha coughed to get cknails attention, so with a heavy sigh the hobgoblin turned and met her gaze.


    I need you to find Khita. No one has seen her since the fight ended and Im worried she got injured, the woman told him.


    I dont wanna; Im busy, cknail replied surlily.


    Youre the only one who can track her through this mess. Now go find her scent or Ill beat you ck and blue... er green during your next sword lesson, she countered.


    Ugh, fine but you owe-ss me, cknail grunted in reply as he reluctantly rose to his feet.


    Ill double the treats I normally give you, Geralhd offered.


    cknail grudgingly nodded his head in eptance.


    I need to get back to Herad, by the front entrance. When you find Khita meet me over there, Vorscha added.


    Whatever, the hobgoblin replied as he sniffed the air for signs of his new quarry.


    It was best to just get this over with as quickly as possible. He would find Khita and then get back to the important things he had been doing before he was interrupted.


    Thankfully, it didnt take him long to track her down. The young woman was seated on a crate in the shadowy space between two buildings. It was an out of the way corner of the base, but she wasnt all that hard to find since she was making so much noise. The sound of her sniffling was easy to track down.


    With extreme reluctance, cknail made his way over to the sobbing girls side. He stared down at her for several long seconds before speaking up.


    Vorscha wants-ss you. Youre not dying or anything are you? he asked. Im supposed to check.


    I almost wish I was dying! Khita wailed without looking up.


    cknail eyed the young redhead. That seemed like a stupid thing to wish for.


    So youre perfectly fine-ss and I can leave? he asked her hopefully.


    I froze, twice, Khita cried. When the knights charged I just stood there, and I almost let that bloody beast eat me! Im useless.


    cknail wasnt going to argue that; she was totally useless. However, her crying was disturbing him and making it impossible to get the answers he needed out of her.


    There, there, the hobgoblin told her as he awkwardly patted her shoulder.


    That was what humans did, right? Hes seen at least one of them do it before...


    This isnt even the first time. I got my brother killed. I just stood there as he died! Khita sobbed.


    The hobgoblin winced in irritation. This sounded like it was going to be a long andplicated story. Judging by the tears forming in her eyes it might also get wet.


    Back in Riverbend my big brother was the one who looked after me, she told the frustrated hobgoblin. He was the one that brought me into the gang. He taught me how to steal, fight, and look after myself. I was afraid of nothing when he was around. He just had this strong reassuring presence that attracted people.


    cknail looked around for someone who would care, but they were alone. Maybe he could just pick her up and carry her to Vorscha? The big woman seemed to be the one that took care of this sort of thing. Beside him, Khita resumed talking.


    One day I messed up a job... I froze and he was cut down by some fat stupid guardsman while covering me, she exined. The worst thing about it was how all his supposed friendsughed about it. That was the real reason I left. I couldnt stand to be in that city with those people anymore, so I joined up with Herad when Red Dog came around recruiting. I thought that maybe with a fresh start I could put it all behind me, but Im just a coward. I froze again.


    The young redhead was hunched over now with her head down towards the ground. The hobgoblin grimaced in frustration. There was no one around but him. What was he supposed to do? Slowly creeping away sounded like a good idea, but Vorscha had given him a job...


    Wait, she was just being weird and human-like. He could probably just exin to her why she was being stupid and then she would shut up, right? The hobgoblin coughed to get Khitas attention.


    Freezing doesnt make you a coward. Sitting here whining makes you-ss stupid, though, he told her.


    The hobgoblin ced his hand on her shoulder and forced himself to smile reassuringly. Khita looked up at him and frowned in confusion. Her eyes were red and wet with tears. cknail put a little more pressure on her shoulder so she couldnt get up and hug him or something.


    I freeze all-ss the time, and then run away. What matters is that youre still alive so you sneak backter and stab-ss them when theyre not paying attention, cknail exined. They cantugh at you or gang up on youter if you hunt them down and kill them in their sleep. When all your enemies are dead-ss you win!


    Im not sure that would really help me at all, Khita replied sulkily.


    Sure it will; youll feel better and then you can take all-ss their stuff, he countered.


    I dont think I could kill them all myself, anyway, the young woman replied but she was now smiling slightly.


    cknail sighed. Of course Khita couldnt, she was useless.


    Ill do it then, he told her.


    Really, youd do that for me? she asked in surprise.


    Sure, cknail replied as he shrugged.


    If it shut her up then he had no problem killing some people. Hmm, would Khitas enemies count as Herads? He owed the chief a hundred corpses after all. Oh well, he was sure he could slip them in without anyone noticing anything.


    Suddenly, the young woman hopped up and reached over to hug cknail. The hobgoblin tried to push her away but somehow she slipped past his guard. How did she keep doing that?


    Thanks cknail, but I think I need to solve my own problems. Youre right; I shouldnt waste the life my brother gave me. After a few more lessons from Vorscha and the others Ill be able to stand on my own. Im a ruthless bandit now after all! Khita exined gratefully as cknail slipped away from her.


    The hobgoblin grimaced and eyed Khita skeptically. That didnt really sound like what hed just said, but whatever. As long as she stopped being annoying it was fine. It also certainly looked like Khita wasnt wounded, and that meant he could leave, finally.


    You do-ss that. I think I hear someone calling me, so bye, cknail said as he stepped backwards and made his escape.


    cknail quickly reported back to Vorscha. The woman was right where she said she would be, by the entrance to the camp the knights had attacked. The hobgoblin sauntered over and informed her that Khita was perfectly fine, if still annoying and useless.


    Good, its hard to keep track of people during a battle and that one was fairly chaotic. I couldnt afford to worry about her then, the ex-mercenary exined.


    Vorscha was leaning against a post and watching a group of bandits work to repair the barricade the knights had crushed.


    You owe-ss me. Now, all the good stuff is taken, cknail grunted in reply as he watched a bandit with a dented but new steel breastte walk by.


    Im sure Geralhd will give you something nice, Vorscha replied distractedly.


    By now all the enemies had disappeared, except for one. The knights had ridden out of camp like a horde of monsters had been on their tails and their footmen had followed swiftly behind them, which left only sir Masnin behind. The pdin had retrieved his mount and was saddling it up in preparation to leave.


    Just as he finished, Herad detached herself from her bodyguards and walked over to him. Somehow, shed found the time to switch into cleaner armor and her short dark hair had beenbed.


    Headed away so soon, are you? she asked the pdin. Now that things have calmed down a little around here, are you sure you dont want to stick around for a little bit and rest? Theres no point in rushing away.


    Sir Masnin eyed the bandit chieftain warily. Complex emotions stormed behind his eyes.


    Earlier, I may have underestimated how dangerous you were and the exact nature of that threat. You caught me off guard. I wont be making that mistake again. I intend to make for my orders closest chapter house and submit a full report. After that I will go where they will me, he exined.


    ttery will get you everywhere. Just make sure you tell your superiors who controls this territory. Its not the merchants, the nobles, or even the king, its me. Herad replied with a predatory smile.


    Ill make sure theyre aware of your strength, the pdin remarked as he surveyed the surrounding bandits and his eyes stopped on cknail. Goodbye, Herad. I cant say it has been a pleasure but it has certainly been interesting, anyway,


    The hobgoblin noticed the attention and gave the man a friendly wave.


    Maybe you can stop by again, Herad replied. Juste alone next time so there are fewer distractions.


    With only a vague nod for a reply the pdin jumped up into his saddle and started riding away. When he was gone Herad turned toward Vorscha.


    You stay here. Im calling a meeting, she told the other woman.


    The bandit chieftain sent one of her bodyguards to round up her lieutenants. Saeter was the first to arrive. The old scout simply strolled up behind cknail without making a noise, much to the hobgoblins surprise.


    Red Dog was thest to show up.


    It was sted unlucky of us to get attacked by those knights and that mutant at the same time. The camps a bloody damned mess. I imagine that this is going to slow down your n he grumbled as he walked over.


    Ha, unlucky? Things couldnt have worked out better! We just smashed the only mobile force the nobles in this area could send against us with minimal losses! Nothing short of a royal expedition will be able to force us away now! Herad announced.


    We lost more than a few good men and a lot of bad ones. I wouldnt call that a minimal loss, Vorscha countered.


    So what? We were in the middle of a recruiting drive anyway. All that means is that it willst a little longer and we will have one more victory to brag about, the bandit chieftain pointed out.


    So, you wont be dying your trip to Daggerpoint this winter? Saeter asked.


    No, in fact Ill be speeding my ns up. Its time to go for our enemies throats, Herad answered confidently. Now that this base is secured its even more important that I announce my im to the otherrge ouw bands. They need to know that if they move into my territory it will mean war.


    Cant you just send a messenger? Red Dog asked.


    No, some of those bastards would challenge me right away. I cant give them time to n and work to undermine me. I need to be in Daggerpoint where I can confront the other bandit captains directly and put them in their ce, Herad replied.


    You wont be able to bring too many men with you if you want to hold this base. What happens if one of the otherrge bands takes up your challenge? Red Dog asked in concern.


    The bandit chieftain almost seemed to shiver in excitement. Her dark eyes suddenly gleamed madly, and her smile widened to show teeth as she regarded her underlings.


    In Daggerpoint Ill be able to recruit real hardened bandits. Then, if anyone tries to stand in my way Ill paint the streets with their blood, and take their skulls as trophies, Herad replied gleefully.


    cknail smiled along with her. Herad was such a great chief! Defending the camp was important but it was always better to be the attacker. There were more things to take and it was easier to catch the enemy by surprise. He couldnt wait to feel the blood of his tribes enemies run through his hands. Glorious days wereing and he was going to have such fun.

 Interlude: Study and Reflection

    Interlude: Study and Reflection


    Cervassa Mas Dhallia hurried down the busy stone halls of the Heavenly Spire. sses had just been let out so the halls were full of students in their in grey robes, and the asional teacher in their blue ones. Their excited voices and joyful cheers rang out all around her.


    It was still the morning, barely, so sunlight poured in through therge windows that lined the outwards wall and illuminated everything. This meant none of the mage lights that lit the hallways of the guild during the night were lit.


    Cervessa rudely brushed past anyone who got in her way, and ignored anyints or calls for her to slow down. Normally she would consider such rash behavior to be far too undignified for her, but not right now. She waste, and Archmagus Rastilio Fer Grehmar the Supreme Master of the Endless Heavens Guild was waiting for her.


    She was one step away from panic, and only a finely ingrained sense of decorum kept her from breaking into a sprint and racing to his office. It wouldnt do at all for a mere junior researcher like her to keep such a man waiting. As she was a mage and disciple of the Endless Heavens Guild the Archmagus had almostplete control over her life, and more importantly her research funding.


    She clutched her notebook to her chest as she reached the doorway to the staircase that led to the top of the spire, and the Archmagus office. She had to lift her blue robes up so that they didnt trip her as she bounded up the stairs, and there were a lot of stairs. The spire towered over the surroundings and was one of the tallest buildings in Hulgaron city, which made it among the tallest in the entire country of Hulgaron.


    The Archmagus had his own way up that didnt involve climbing a seemingly endless amount of spiraling steps. It was some sort of mechanical lift powered by an ingenious mix of crystal mechanisms, but that wasnt Cervassas department so she knew next to nothing about it. However, one thing she did know was that she really wished she could use it right now, and not have to climb all these stairs.


    She was panting and out of breath when she finally reached the top. Still on the edge of panic she only gave herself a brief second to recover and fix herself up, before pushing open the door and stepping into the reception room on the other side.


    The Archmagus middle aged secretary looked up from her desk and frowned in disapproval as she entered. Cervessa flushed in embarrassment as she gave the secretary a polite nod in greeting. The room around her was small butfortable looking with plush furniture for visitors to sit in.


    A window to one side had a magnificent view of Hugaron city, but Cervessa had seen it many times before. She just stood there by the door uncertain about what to do with herself for a minute before the secretary spoke.


    Go right in. Hes been expecting you, she said with an amazing amount of scorn packed into those few words.


    Right, thank you, Cervessa replied before nervously walking across the room.


    The door to the Archmagus office was on the wall beside the secretarys desk. Feeling a surge of dread that made her heart skip a beat she pushed it open and prepared herself to meet the master of her guild, and one of the most powerful people in the country.


    Archmagus Rastilio Fer Grehmar turned and gave her a weing smile as she entered the room. Cervessa felt herself rx as she took in his calm cheerful eyes and friendly demeanor. She was extremely relieved that he didnt seem angry. Maybe she would get out of this with some research funding after all.


    The Archmagus had been standing by his window and taking in the view, which was muchrger and fancier than the one in the waiting room. He was an older man of average height with a clean shaven face.


    His white robes of office didnt quite conceal the fact that he was a bit on the pudgy side, and he was clearly in the advanced stages of going bald. Most men of his rank would have tried to hide their baldness or at least covered it up, but he did no such thing. She wondered why.


    His gold ceremonial chain and amulet hung around his neck, and his incredibly ornate staff was leaning up against one wall. The amulet was studded with several crystals of different colors and sizes. Cervessa had never seen some of them anywhere else, and had no idea what they did. She had heard several wild rumors though, each more impressive and unlikely than thest.


    Ah, Cervassa Mas Dhallia how good it is to see you again. I believe its been quite a while since ourst encounter. Which is a shame, youre one of our youngest researchers and I do believe your father is the head of house Dhallia, he said with smile.


    Yes master, thats correct. My father is indeed the house head, although that has nothing to do with why Im here, she replied uncertainly.


    No, of course not. Youre here to ask permission to begin work on your thesis, and by tradition you must get my approval. I must say Im looking forward to hearing what youve chosen. Why dont you take a seat, he told her as he moved to sit behind his desk.


    Feeling very relieved that he wasnt mad about being kept waiting a few minutes Cervessa returned the Archmagus smile, and took the seat across from him.


    Before we get down to business, why dont you tell me how youve been finding the amodations here since you were promoted to junior researcher? he asked her.


    Oh theyve been wonderful, everything I could ask for. Alchemy is such a delicate and expensive science but the equipment here is perfect for my needs, she eximed enthusiastically.


    Im d to hear that. I must admit to being a little out of touch with the junior ranks of our guild. There are just so many other demands on the Archmagus time that I cant keep up with everything I would like, he said.


    Im sure someone as important as you has better things to do anyway, she replied politely.


    She imagined the Archmagus must spend a lot of time dealing with politics and administrative duties. The guild had to constantly deal with the King, his court, merchants, and the other mage guilds. Idly, she wondered if he ever really had any time for research of his own, or if these interviews were as close as he got anymore.


    Speaking of which, lets get down to the science shall we? Why dont you tell me what your thesis is on? he asked with a glimmer of enthusiasm in his eyes.


    Yes, Archmagus, dly. My chosen topic is entitled: A study of chromatic variations in natural forming hydrophilic vital crystals, and how they rte to the mineralposition of their host ore deposits, she answered.


    Oh, interesting. Chromatic variations are of course a highly studied area of research, as mages are always looking for new types of vital crystals. If we understand how the minerals a crystal absorbs as it grows affect its coloring then we can better reverse engineer the process to clone existing samples, he mused aloud.


    Yes, and it might even help us understand how to use those vital crystals, or even how to tweak them to produce slightly different controlled effects, she added passionately.


    Hmm, but why hydrophilic crystals? They are already a type of crystal our guild understands quite well. Why I just received a report from the King about how useful ourbat mages on the Teshuran front are for drying things out. I understand it can get quite wet there. In a pinch the spell can even apparently be used as a rather messy close quarter weapon, he asked her.


    Um, I wouldnt know anything about that. Im the furthest thing from abat mage imaginable, but I chose hydrophilic crystals because I had a recent breakthrough in that area, she replied.


    I havent heard anything about this. What do you mean a breakthrough? he asked her excitedly from across the desk as his eyes narrowed with interest.


    Well, I was making some minute changes to the chemicalposition of the nutrient solution for thermal crystals in myb. Purely as a side project out of curiosity you understand. I had just filled the ss incubation beaker up and introduced heat from the burner to speed the growth, when a thought urred to me, she told him.


    I get the asional thought myself, the Archmagus interjected jokingly.


    After a quick second of nervous thought Cervessa decided she was better off ignoring his remark, so she kept on speaking. As she exined her research she grew more excited with every word she until she was practically shaking.


    My thought was that there were many examples of opposite effects existing in mana crystals, and a statistically significant amount of the time one of the pair will be significantly darker than the other. Like heat absorbing and heat radiating crystals for example. What if there was an exploitable pattern in this? she continued.


    Oh, very interesting, her audience of one mused.


    So, I went to the archive and begun to study the chemical differences between such pairs. Unfortunately I didnt find anything concrete enough to serve as a general rule, but I did do some experimenting. Amon difference between opposite effect pairs was the presence of higher concentrations of sulfur and lower amounts of nitrogen. After a series of rather exhaustive trials on several different mana stone types my idea bore fruit. I managed to reverse the effect of hydrophilic crystals and grow hydrophobic crystals instead, she eximed proudly.


    The Archmagus was silent for a few seconds and stared at Cervessa with an unreadable expression. The junior academic began to grow nervous as she waited for him to say something. Had she said something stupid?


    That is some very impressive alchemy, youngdy. It is very rare for me to be at a loss for words, but you managed it just now. You are a credit to our order, the white robed man told her as he beamed proudly at her.


    Thank you Guild Master, Im honored by your high praise, she replied happily, and with more than a little relief.


    To think you have not only discovered a new sub category of crystal, but perhaps stumbled upon a new underlying principle as well. It is truly astounding. Although I must admit Im currently at a loss for any practical purpose a hydrophobic crystal may serve, he said.


    Cervessas smile dimmed slightly, and she cringed in an embarrassed fashion.


    Ah, Im sure someone will think of something. I mean just off the top of my head they could be used as rain shields or to keep things dry instead of just drying them out, she told him hesitantly.


    A chuckle escaped from between the Archmagus lips, and his happy smile turned into an amused grin.


    You want to create a thaumaturgical umbre? he asked her with unconcealed amusement.


    Yes. Um, I mean no, she replied as her face turned beat red in embarrassment. The Archmagus wasughing at her. She wanted to crawl under her chair and hide. If only invisibility stones were a thing!


    Oh Im sorry my dear, I didnt mean to upset you. Youre truly a genius alchemist. Its just that I find the idea so very funny, he told her,


    Yes, Archmagus, The mortified woman said.


    Your work has the potential to be of great use to us. Some of the other mage guilds dont think very highly of us because we specialize in support magic, but magic isnt just about shy nonsense or blowing things up. With young mages such as you in our ranks it is our Endless Heavens Guild that shall have thestugh, he told her proudly.


    Yes, Archmagus, the young researcher replied again.


    His high praise was making her blush in embarrassment. She couldnt take such high praise from such a great man. The Archmagus appeared to recognize her difficulty because he gave her understanding look.


    Now then, why dont you tell me some of the specifics? What were the exact changes you made to the nutrient solutions, he asked her.


    Immediately Cervessa felt morefortable and straightened up in her seat. She found herself eager to discuss the technical details of her work.


    The two of the discussed her discovery for a few more minutes before the Guild Master had to dismiss her so he could meet with someone else. Much to her relief she was easily able to not only keep her research funding but actually secure more!


    Cervessa was practically hopping with excitement as she passed the receptionist and descended the spire stairs. She had actually been praised by the Archmagus!


    She exited the stair well, and made her way back out into the second floor hall.


    Most the students from earlier had either gone home or were now busy in another ss, so the hallway before her was almost empty and she could stride unimpeded down its length. Only the asional strolling lecturer or staff was in sight well them and the Mage Guard.


    Usually she just ignored the Mage Guard. As usual two of them were guarding the main entrance to the hall. Both were tall men and dressed in the white and blue hood and surcoats of their order. Swords hung from their waist, but their real weapons were the long mage staffs they held in their hands and the magical amulets on their chest.


    As a researcher Cervessa recognized the stones imbedded within those items, and knew the forces they could call forth. They had the power to both protect the user and toy waste to their enemies. The men themselves were nothing special though.


    They might be the elite among thebat mages but they were still just muscle, and thus little better than the foot soldiers the guild trained for the king. They sprung frommon stock, although she supposed they must have had at least a few connections to end up in the Mage Guard, instead of in the military. They were undoubtedly necessary, but they werent real mages.


    Even if they had the mage gift and could burn mage stones to cast spells they had no real understanding of what they did. They would be utterly useless without the real mages like her.


    She walked through the doorway between them without giving them a second nce. The guards didnt react to her presence at all, they remained unmoving and at attention. At least they were professional.


    She exited the building and entered the Heavenly Spires main courtyard. She smiled as she took a deep breath of refreshing air and gazed at the lovely scenery around her. It never failed to cheer her up.


    Before her were dozens of ornamental gardens, which were full of countless colorful flowers that thrived in the warm weather of the capital. Exquisite marble statues rose from the center of the gardens, many of which were of various famous mages


    Grey brick paths wound all throughout the area, and lovingly pruned trees provided shade for the people loitering on thewn beneath them. In the center of the courtyard arge marble fountain was positioned. Pure water streamed forth from the center and up into the air, beforeing down again in a graceful half sphere. All and all the courtyard wasrger than many viges.


    Encircling the courtyard were several elegant multi-story stone buildings. Behind them small stretches were visible of the high wall and parapets that enclosed the campus and kept it isted from the outside.


    The Heavenly Spire was almost a city within a city. Someone could live there and never have to leave, and Cervessa knew many people did just that. Most of them had little choice in the matter.


    Cervessa sighed as she walked over to the nearest bed of flowers. She didnt regret bing a mage or a researcher. She loved her life, but it was not without its drawbacks. The Mage Guard she saw scattered around the courtyard did have one great advantage over her. They were allowed to leave the Heavenly Spire.


    Once someone was educated by the Endless Heavens Guild and entrusted with their secrets they were never allowed to leave the Guild Keep without permission and an escort of Mage Guards. The secrets they possessed were simply too valuable.


    There were no shortage of factions and groups that would resort to kidnapping, torture, and even murder to get their hands on her or any other research mage. In all likelihood she would never again leave the Heavenly Spire, except for a few heavily escorted trips out into the safer areas of the capital.


    Cervessa had never really had any desire to wander the world or travel much, but the loss of her freedom still sometimes made her feel depressed. She understood why it was necessary and even logically agreed with it, but her heart didnt always listen to reason.


    She took a seat on the edge of the flower garden. A smiling statue of a pretty young female mage loomed over her. Cervessa smiled up at the unpractical and revealing clothes the statue wore. She had never seen any of the other woman in the guild wear anything like that.


    The sounds ofughter and good cheer filled the courtyard around her as she leaned down to smell the scent of the flowers beside her. Their sweet and honey like fragrance filled her nostrils as she took a deep breath. It reminded her of home and of youthful days spent in her mothers reading room. She would undoubtedly never see it again.


    With a sigh Cervessa stood back up and started making her way to her office. She had a lot of work to do, and didnt have time to waste feeling mncholic. Her breakthrough was just that, an opportunity to dig deeper and work harder.


    As she came up to the faculty building she threw onest look at the gardens and happy people behind her. At least the cage she had chosen for her life was very beautiful.

 Journal Entry: Harpies

    Journal Entry: Harpies


    A traveler to the shores of Vesteria, the continent West of the Homnds, woulde across many strange and beautiful creatures. Even among this bizarre menagerie of beasts the harpy stands out due to its startling and disturbing appearance.


    At first nce the harpy appears to be arge bird of prey. They are forest creatures but are mostmonly seen soaring through the air off in the distance with their lengthy feathered wings extended. Since harpies rarely allow humans to get closer than this, unless they are hunting them, this confusion is understandable.


    Like a bird they also have a sleek grey and white feathered body, and two rear legs that end in curved talons. Adults range in size anywhere from four to four and a half feet in height, but they can appearrger when their wings are extended.


    Closer inspection however will quickly reveal features that exclude the beasts from the bird family. Most obviously the harpy has no beak, but possesses a toothy maw instead. It also has tworge fore ws that extend forth from its wings. These ws are used for both climbing, and defending itself.


    Together along with the hair like ck crest on their heads these traits give the harpy an unsettlingly humanlike appearance. The bodies of harpies have a graceful feminine shape, and when calm their faces are intelligent and even beautiful. However, when they grow excited or angry they open their mouths and their visages grow vicious and wrinkled. The transformation can be startling.


    These features ce the winged raptors firmly among the ancient family of saurians. As the reader is undoubtedly aware the other notable member of this family that survives in Vesteria is the great drake. The resemnce may not be immediately apparent but like harpies drakes possess feathers, scaly skin, two sets of ws, and a mouth full of teeth.


    Harpies are social creatures capable of a wide range of vocalmunication. They are even able to mimic other animals or human voices, an ability they use to taunt prey and lure it closer. Mainly however theymunicate amongst themselves using shrill bird like cries.


    Flocks of harpies gather together and creatergemunal nests on cliffs or above the forest canopy in particrly tall trees. These structures are constructed using mud, dried nts, and branches. Usually, thesemunal nests are a collection of muddy domed spheres. This provides the flock with warm shelter and protects their young from predators, other harpies, and the harsh winters of northern Vesteria.


    Most of a flocks nourishmentes from small animals such as rabbits and earth dogs, but they will also huntrger prey. Frequently, these winged beasts hunt in loose flights of three to six members. They will split up and fly through the canopy looking for suitable targets. When one of the flight finds something it will signal its partners using innocent sounding noises that wont alert its prey.


    They will then silently converge on the target and use their cries and mimicry to lure their prey into a disadvantaged position or to iste it from the rest of its herd. Once they are reasonably sure of sess the winged beasts will descend on their prey and tear it apart. Harpies will then carry chunks of their meal up to high branches where they are safe from other predators. This often results in grisly scenes where blood is sttered across and below the nearby trees.


    The ability of harpies to mimic human speech, their social nature, and their somewhat humanlike appearance has caused some to specte that they are intelligent creatures on the same level as man. This is not true in the least. Captured specimens portray no more intelligence than a dog, and are alsopletely untamable. They will y along for awhile but always flee from their human trainers at the first chance they get.


    Peasants and rural nobility have been known to shoot the creatures on sight. This is due to the fact they have been known to attack children or livestock that wander too close to the woods. Being cunning creatures harpies now rarely let men or women get within bowshot if they see the person is armed.


    Folklore is filled of tales of harpies luring men to their death through beautiful singing. These tales are unlikely to be true though as suchplex and detailed mimicry has never been observed. At most harpies have been noted to repeat a single short sentence. Still, it is a fanciful notion with a disquieting kernel of truth at its core.


    Anothermon myth is that all harpies are female, and reproduce with human men. This is obviously false. Male harpies are simply very feminine looking and hard to distinguish from the females.


    Truly, the harpy is a creature of unsettling contradictions. It seemingly blends the features of men and bird together but is actually neither. It is intelligent and beautiful, yet also violent, savage, and forever untamable.


    -Farstidiuous Der Lanmount, Royal Gervaien Surveyor.


    Here''s another journal entry to help with the wait until Sunday''s chapter. If you want more info or feel something is missing just ask below. You can also make suggestions for the next journal entry.

 Along Twisted Paths 1

    Along Twisted Paths 1


    Arrrgh. Die! the hobgoblin snarled in rage as he stared at his target with beady hate filled eyes.


    With vicious intent he swung the axe in his hands down with all his might. The muscles in his back burned as he guided the sharp edge towards his defenceless target. The de bit into the soft flesh of the log and cleaved right through it. Two equal sized pieces of wood flopped down onto the ground with hollow thud, leaving the axe head imbedded in the stump beneath it.


    Meh, that time wasnt too bad. You''re still putting too much effort into your swings, though. Just let the axe fall and you dont need to yell everytime, the old human ranger named Saeter remarked casually from where he was seated several feet away.


    cknail gave him an annoyed look as he tugged on the axe handle to free it.


    Screaming makes the axe hit-ss harder and faster he pointed out.


    Maybe, but youre scaring the neighbours, the old scout replied.


    cknail looked around. Their neighbours were all hardened ouws and members of Herad the ck Snakes banditpany. Most of them were used to the hobgoblin in their midst by now; a little yelling wasnt going to rm them much. It wasnt like he was burning down the camp again.


    Why am I even doing this? Its boring and making me hungry, cknail whined.


    The hobgoblin had to suppress the urge to snarl and spit as a sudden wave of anger rose within him. The rush of energy made his teeth ache. Living among humans required that he constantly fight his violent urges.


    Yelling while chopping helped him suppress his rage, and it was one of the few ways to do it that wouldnt annoy his chieftain nor require him to dig any graves. Digging was hard work and he preferred to avoid it.


    Chopping wood is great for your back and will help your swordcraft. Plus, its getting damned cold out at night so we need the wood, Saeter remarked.


    cknail felt like asking his master why he wasnt chopping wood then, but he suspected he already knew the answer. Besides, his master was right; it was getting bloody cold out.


    Over a week had passed since the attack on Herads camp by the knights that hade looking for the ghouls Herad had wiped out. The days had been steadily getting shorter as Autumn grew older. The smothering white of winter would soon descend upon the North.


    cknail wasnt really used to staying above ground when darkness descended so the cold bothered him. He used to live in the sewer under a city to the South, before hed been imprisoned and ced in a merchant caravan. Saeter had been the one who had freed him when Herads band had attacked the merchants.


    There hadnt been a lot of perks involved in living in a mucky cramped sewer but it had stayed warm in the winter. Of course, hed only been a little goblin back then and not a magnificent hobgoblin.


    cknail set a new piece of wood on top of the log and raised the axe above his head. With a grunt of effort he brought it down again and continued his work.


    Chopping firewood was annoying but it did supply his with a steady stream of stuff to burn. cknail loved feeding fire until it grew huge and roared wildly.


    The dancing red and orange mes were so pretty. They made him feel likeughing and pping his hands together.


    Do we have enough twine? Saeter asked the hobgoblin as he idly whittled away at a wooden figurine.


    We have-ss enough for all the snares and to tie up the wood-ss, cknail replied dryly.


    His master was clearly just looking for something to make him do. They always needed more rope and twine but creating it was a chore. It had to be carefully twisted from specially prepared nt fibres. Ugh, it was annoying even to think about!


    Then I guess you can take a break now and grab something to eat, the old scout told cknail.


    The hobgoblin smiled and set the axe down. Alright, he was super hungry! What did he want to eat?


    There was plenty of dried meat and leftovers around but he felt like gorging himself on something fresher. cknail stared past the nearby tents and log buildings towards the forest beyond them. Yes, he was definitely going to go out and get his own food. It was time to go hunting.


    As Saeter kept whittling away beside his tent, cknail stalked off towards the woods. He pulled up his hood and slipped through the bandit camp. No one gave him a second nce as he made his way to the edge of the trees.


    Unseen, cknail stepped through the thick bushes at the edge of the clearing and disappeared into the shadowy forest beyond. The sun was high in the sky but its light was blocked by a smothering maze of branches and leaves.


    The hobgoblin took a second to look around. Even this close to the human camp there could be dangerous creatures lurking around. Nothing moved in the green canopy overhead or on the forest floor. The only sounds were of birds singing and the faint rustling of leaves by the wind.


    Satisfied that he was alone, cknail sniffed the air and began to circle carefully around the camp. He crept slowly through the underbrush and tried to camaflouge in with his surroundings.


    The prey he was looking for kept to a certain schedule that made them predictable. He knew almost exactly where to find his midday meal.


    Sure enough, after a few minutes of sneaking through the bushes he detected the telltale shuffling sounds of movement ahead. The cloaked hobgoblin dashed over to a thick brown tree trunk and pressed himself up against the bark. He then peeked out around it.


    His prey was in in sight a few dozen feet away, and cknail had arrived at exactly the right time. The hobgoblin smiled wickedly to himself and licked his lips hungrily.


    The forest was incredibly dangerous and full of hungry beasts that would like nothing better than to devour humans and hobgoblins alike. cknail had run into more than a few of these while out with Saeter. There was also the possibility of another tribe of humans attacking the camp and sneaking through the woods. Thus, Herad had sentries posted around the perimeter of her base.


    That was whaty before cknail, a human sentry, and he was eating his lunch. The delicious smell of roasted meat and gravy rose from the te in front of the man. A torn of chunk of bready next to it. cknail sniffed the air again and the delectable aroma caused his stomach to gurgle in anticipation. Soon it would be his.


    The sentry was leaning against a tree trunk while he took a bite out of the bread. He held the te in front of him as hezily surveyed the forest out of the corner of his eye. The man was obviously more concerned with eating than watching, and thus deserved what wasing to him.


    Mmm, I love bread with herbs in it. I need to get some more of this, the sentry mused to himself as he chewed.


    From behind the tree, the hobgoblin withdrew a good sized stone from one of his pouches. He squinted as he took in the surroundings and roughly measured the distance between the sentry and himself. Then, cknail whipped the rock off into a nearby clump of tall thickets.


    There was loud rustling sound as it tore through the branches and a muted thud as the rock hit the ground and rolled. The sentry twitched and spun around towards the unexpected noise. His eyes were wide as he scanned the bushes for any signs of a threat.


    He was also looking in the exact opposite direction of cknail. This was a fact the hobgoblin took full advantage of as he closed in.


    The sentry was frowning in concern as he warily watched the bushes. Without looking down, the man carefully ced his te of food on a nearby log. He then took several wary steps over toward the bushes. His hand was resting on the hilt of his sword.


    If theres someone theree on out! the sentry called.


    Behind him, cknail silently prowled closer. The hungry hobgoblin put on a sudden burst of speed, hopped over a rotting log that was covered in moss, and then grabbed the te. It was his!


    Huh, weird, the sentry remarked to himself as he studied the bushes.


    With his prize in hand, the hobgoblin turned and hurriedly scuttled behind a nearby tree and away. He clutched the meat covered te to his chest as he ran. There was no stopping him now!


    The sentry rxed when nothing emerged from the bushes and attacked him. With a happy little sigh the man turned and started walking back to where hed been eating. Suddenly, he let out a frustrated yell.


    No, what the hells! Where did my bloody food go? This is the second time! What keeps taking my damn lunch? Ack, Im bloody hungry! the shocked scout swore in disbelief.


    cknail giggled to himself as he cheerfully hopped back through the forest and towards camp. He was the sneakiest and cleverest member of Herads band for sure!


    Taking food from sentries was the perfect crime! No matter what happened they were supposed to stay on guard so they couldnt give chase. They also couldntin about losing their food to anyone, doing so would be admitting that they hadnt been paying attention on watch.


    It wasnt an actual crime though, and nothing like thievery. cknail wasnt a thief. He and the sentry been engaged in a contest of skill, with the food being a prize for the winner. That was nothing like stealing. cknail would have given the man something if he had been spotted, but he hadnt been.


    The hobgoblin took a seat atop arge stone on the edge of the woods. From there he could see into the camp but he was still mostly out of sight. The brown of his cloak and the green of his skin made him blend in with the forest. Swiftly, he began slurping down his meal.


    When thest bit of food had vanished into his stomach he belched and started to n his next move. He wasnt quite full yet so he needed to get more grub. Luckily, he knew where to get some.


    cknail got up and headed over to meet with Varhs. The man owed him a huge favor and had promised him tasty treats.


    The young, at least next to Saeter, bandit scout had taken a goblin as a pet. The wretched little thing was named Scamp, and he was a stupid greedy little thief.


    After a few minutes, cknail arrived in front of Varhs tent. The young scout was sitting in front of a firepit and frying up some eggs. They crackled and cooked on top of the pan he was holding above the mes.


    Scamp was tied up beside him and curled up close to the fire. There was a content look on the goblins dreaming face. ckanil didnt like it.


    Ah, I thought you might stop by, Varhs remarked as he looked up and saw the hobgoblin.


    A while ago, the goblin had stolen some magic crystals and raised a huge ruckus. cknail had heroically tried to catch him but the little bastard had still managed to annoy Herad. As a result she had wanted to get rid Scamp.


    Out of the goodness of his heart, and for the promise of a lot of treats from Varhs, cknail had agreed to be responsible for training the ugly runt of a goblin.


    I see Scamp still-ss hasnt run away, the hobgoblin observed.


    The goblin in question woke up and yawned. He noticed the hobgoblin and a sulky expression appeared on his face. cknail didnt like it.


    My little buddy wouldnt do that. Hes a loyalpanion and a great sniffer. He just needs some discipline, Varhs remarked as he petted Scamp affectionately.


    Saeter had almost never petted him when he had been a goblin! cknail would have to remember to give Scamp a good kickingter when Varhs wasnt around. He was obviously spoiled rotten, and it would be for his own good.


    About-ss that training... cknail slowly drawled.


    Yes, you can have some food. I have a spare egg here and some honeyed fruit tucked away, Varhs told the hobgoblin with an obvious hint of amusement.


    cknail frowned at the mans words. Apparently, he had gotten predictable. That wasnt good. Well, whatever. It couldnt be helped if it was about tasty treats.


    Several minutester, the hobgoblin was once again walking through the camp with food in hand. He licked his lips as sucked on thest bit of sugary fruit in his mouth. It was delicious!


    He was still kind of hungry, though. Should he go find Geralhd? That man was almost always easy to get food out of and he tended to have good stuff.


    cknail decided against it. Saeter would be looking for him; they had practice soon. His master was teaching the hobgoblin how to shoot a bow, and it hadnt been going all too well.


    There you are. What took you so long? Dont make me wait for you, Saeter huffed as cknail arrived back at the spot where their tents were set up next to each other.


    Iming, the hobgoblin replied as he grabbed one of the bows that wereid out next to Saeters tent.


    Now that lunch was over the camp was bing busier. Herads minions were getting back to work. The sounds of wood being sawed and hammered filled the forest clearing.


    It hadnt been that long since the bandits had set up here on top the old abandoned farmhouse but a lot of work had been done. Most he bandits had moved out of their tents or lean-to and moved into log cabins.


    Several more building were still being constructed in the clearing. Winter wasing and this was the North. Tents were fine for the other seasons but the snow and cold would be deadly in the winter.


    If Herad wanted most of her minions alivee spring she had to make sure they were prepared. Food, firewood, and clothing all had to be stockpiled.


    Log cabins and barracks werent the only thing being built either. Defenses also had to be constructed. Wooden watchtowers had been thrown up by the road near the entrance to the camp. Barricades were being built to stop not only attacking monsters from the forest but also people approaching from the road. Herad had plenty of human enemies.


    Off to one side of the clearing there was an area that was still mostly empty. That was where cknail and his master headed. They had set up a series of targets there yesterday.


    Just take your time and stay focused, Sater reminded cknail.


    No problem-ss, this is easy, cknail replied cheerfully.


    The hobgoblin was good at everything, so he obviously couldnt be bad at archery. All those misses and injuries fromst time were nothing but flukes.


    Just remember that you have to retrieve any arrows that go astray, so no more shooting at birds, Saeter reminded him with a re.


    They looked tasty... cknail muttered to himself in frustration.


    You get more than enough to eat! Im surprised youre notpletely round by now. Focus on learning to shoot, you big green idiot, Saeter harshly replied with scowl.


    With a sigh, the hobgoblin strung his bow and nocked an arrow to it. His master didnt need to call him names, that was mean. Besides, he was still much thinner and prettier than a big fat pink human and that was unlikely to ever change.


    The steel point in front of cknails eye pointed right towards the red circle that had been painted on the piece of board he was aiming at. With a confident smile, the hobgoblin let the arrow loose.


    There was a muted thrum as the bowstring vibrated and the projectile whizzed through the air. The arrow raced towards the target, and then flew right past it withouting within five feet of it.


    I could hit-ss it easily with a rock from a sling... cknail muttered in disappointment.


    Well, I dont feel the need to stay here and watch this travesty. Just keep shooting until you get a feel for it, if you ever do, Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    The old human scout then shook his head and wandered off.


    cknail took his time lining up his next shot. There was no point in rushing now that Saeter was gone. He would just tire himself out and it was still early in the day; he had other jobs to doter, like sword training with Vorscha. Life with Saeter was basically a never ending series of chores so you needed to know how to pace yourself.


    The hobgoblins next arrow also flew off into the grass without going near the target. cknail eyed the bow in his hand skeptically. There had to be a trick to this. Maybe if he screamed threats really loudly while shooting or if he pretended the target was Scamp...

 Along Twisted Paths 2

    Along Twisted Paths 2


    Alright thats enough, fall in you two, Vorscha shouted to cknail and Khita.


    The two of them were going through a simple two person sword form. When they heard Vorscha smand they immediately stopped, sheathed their practice des, and started walking towards her. Both of them were sweating and panting after almost an hour of hard practice under therge womans supervision.


    Alright, its time for something a little different. If you two keep repeating the same stuff youll both develop bad habits, Vorscha exined.


    Great, Im ready for the real stuff. No more babying around, Khita eximed excitedly.


    Vorscha threw her a quick skeptical nce before continuing.


    Alright Geralhd, get up here, Vorscha called.


    The smaller man was sitting off to the side of the patch of trampled grass that Vorscha had imed as a training arena. At the sound of his lovers voice he looked up from the book he was reading with a startled expression.


    Who me? he asked in surprise.


    Ya you, loverboy. Come over here, Vorscha told him with a bemused roll of her eyes.


    Geralhd got up, and put his book down on the crate he had been using as a seat. Then he reluctantly dragged himself over to join Vorscha and her students. Vorscha gave him quick smile of greeting, and then looked over both cknail and Khita with a thoughtful expression.


    Right so cknail, youll be sparring with Geralhd. Dont let him fool you, hes not as useless as he looks, she told the hobgoblin as she held out her practice de for Geralhd to take.


    I will watch him carefully, and he will not fool me, cknail replied as he smiled in anticipation.


    He had wanted to spar with Geralhd ever since he had first challenged the man months ago. His opponent though looked more than a little unsure. Geralhd stared at the sword nkly for a few seconds before he reached out and took it.


    Are you sure this is a good idea? It might be too much of a challenge for beginners like the pair of them, he asked Vorscha confidently.


    Go easy on him then, she replied as she smirked in amusement


    Hey, what about me? Khita interjected irately.


    The young redhead had an annoyed look on her face, and her arms were crossed in front of her. She was clearly annoyed at being ignored.


    You can go sit over there, and wait your turn, Vorsha replied dismissively.


    She then gave the much smaller woman a shove in the direction of the crate Gerahld had been sitting on. Khita scowled but did as she was told. She grumbled to herself the entire way over though.


    Now the rules will the same as when you spar with Khita. Ill give points for knocking the opponent off bnce, or touches. I expect Geralhd will be more of a challenge for you though, cknail. He has a somewhat different style, Vorscha exined.


    Hey now, not everyone is a former mercenary. I learned swordy from a proper dueling master, even if I wasnt a very good student, Geralhd remarked, as he swished his sword yfully through the air with one hand.


    I understand, mistress Vorscha, cknail replied as he observed his opponent.


    With a quick smile Geralhd took a few steps back, and brought his de up to assume a stance. cknail took a stance as well, but there was a frown on his face. He didnt recognize the stance Geralhd was using. It was very different from any he had seen before. He wasnt even holding onto his sword with both hands.


    Are you ready, cknail? Geralhd asked the hobgoblin.


    Yes-ss, Im ready, cknail answeredzily.


    Then without warning the hobgoblin attacked. cknail lunged forward in an attack designed to take full advantage of his hobgoblin speed, but Geralhd was already slipping to the side. The hobgoblins attack passed him harmlessly by, and Geralhds own de sliced into cknails way.


    cknails eyes widened in surprise, and had to immediately duck under the unexpected counterattack in order to avoid walking right into it. The startled hobgoblin then quickly took a step back, so that he would have time to figure out what had just happened. He had never seen a move like that before.


    Hmmm, youre very fast, Geralhd remarked thoughtfully.


    Youre sneakier than you look, cknail replied.


    Umm, thanks? his amused opponent replied, as he carefully circled around the hobgoblin.


    When Khita fought she was energetic and daring, and when Vorscha fought she was graceful yet unstoppable. Geralhd was like neither of them. He was constantly moving but always watching as well.


    cknail took a small step forward, and his opponent stepped to the side and slightly adjusted his stance. The hobgoblin took a step back, and Geralhd moved again as well.


    cknail frowned as he realized his opponent was preparing to counter his moves before he even made them. He didnt know what to do about that, so he decided to just rush in.


    cknail started another lightning fast attack, but this time when Glhd moved to deflect his blow he was ready and shifted. His first attack had been a feint to set up his second.


    Glhd grimaced but managed to block the second blow. cknailunched a series of rapid fire shes, in an attempt to knock his opponent off bnce. However, a frantic looking Gerhald managed to avoid or deflect all his blows.


    Growing impatient cknail felt a spike of anger and stepped in to try another attack, only to have Geralhd meet him half way and bat his de down. The man then delivered a solid, but controlled, blow to cknails shoulder while he was off bnce.


    Point for Geralhd, Vorscha announced.


    Damnations-ss! the hobgoblin hissed, as he let his de drop.


    As he hissed his anger subsided slightly, and he began to focus on his breathing. He found that swearing like his master and the other bandits helped him quench his anger, and right now it needed quenching.


    He had allowed his rage to take control and paid the price. Just thinking about it almost made him angry again.


    It had been awhile since he had made that mistake. What really annoyed him though was that unlike when he was fighting Saeter or Vorscha the fight with Geralhd had actually been a close fight. If he hadnt lost control he might have actually won.


    Thats one point for me and zero for you, Geralhd bragged as he smirked at the hobgoblin.


    Enough talking, start round two, Vorscha interjected loudly.


    Ill get-ss you back, little man, cknail told Geralhd as he raised his de again and took a stance.


    The unconventional bandit and the hobgoblin fought a several more rounds. cknail lost the first few, but then he managed to adjust to Glhds style and win two bouts. He simply overwhelmed Geralhds ability to predict him by constantly changing the direction of his attacks.


    Eventually after bothbatants grew exhausted and sweaty Vorscha called a halt to the sparring. Seeing that the other two were done Khita got up and walked over.


    Huh, I thought youd be even worse than that, she told Geralhd.


    Geralhd however wasnt insulted. He just gave her a smug smirk.


    If I was actually a terrible duelist I wouldnt be here, or a wanted man. I would be dead at that bastard Byrons hands. Instead, I did the world a great service and put that thrice damned son of a whore in an early grave, Geralhd replied cheerfully.


    You shouldnt brag about not being terrible at something, aim for excellence instead. You need to practice as much as cknail, and I dont know how can you think your petty vengeance was worth exile. Vorscha told him.


    It wasnt petty. Byron hurt my family, and ruined my sisters reputation. Beating him in a fair duel, and running my de through his heart as I looked him in eye, was the best moment of my life, he replied.


    And having a murderer for a son didnt hurt your family? Vorscha replied dryly.


    Dueling may be illegal in Eloria, but its still considered an honorable way to end a dispute. So I might be a criminal, but Im not amon criminal. Besides, if I hadnt done it I never would have met you, he replied with a suggestive grin.


    Oh, I make it all worth it do I? Stop trying to deflect you silver tongued demon. Sometimes I swear youre pig headed enough to be a noble, instead of just a merchants son, Vorscha remarked with a smile.


    Ha, I bet your bounty is really tiny though. Only the real dangerous criminals get good bounties, Khita told Geralhd in a condescending tone.


    Its three silver, but dont worry I have a n to increase it. Im going to murder a whole bunch of innocent vigers and dump their bodies in front of the nearest bounty office, Geralhd remarked sarcastically as he red at Khita.


    Huh, I was right thats almost nothing, the young woman bragged.


    Its enough to get me hanged by total strangers if I dont watch my back. Its also more than you have, since youre the only one herepletely without one, Geralhd replied.


    Khita looked around for a second and frowned, but she smiled when she saw cknail.


    cknail doesnt have one either, she countered.


    You are once again ignorant. He has one; all hobgoblins have a bounty of five silvers on their heads. For some reason people dislike having them as neighbors. Their bounty can even get higher if the local peasants find something to me them for. I figure that if he keeps hanging around with us his bounty will rise quite a bit. He might even be famous, or infamous anyway, Geralhd exined.


    A high bounty isnt a good thing, Vorscha added with a frown.


    Oh whats yours then? Khita asked with obvious interest.


    Doesnt matter, Vorscha replied stiffly.


    I can answer this question. She got a price on her head when the count that was employing her refused to pay her mercenarypany its due. Instead, he decided it would be cheaper to just trump up some charges and put a bounty on her head. A quite spectacr five gold bounty at that, Geralhd exined with an amused nce towards Vorscha.


    It wasnt even a tenth of what he actually owed me, Vorscha replied in disgust.


    I could buy a mansion for that much! Khita eximed in surprise.


    Well a half decent house anyway, as long as it was fairly small, Geralhd corrected her.


    One day Im going to get an even bigger bounty than that. Everyone will be terrified of me, Khita announced proudly.


    Geralhd gave her a doubtful look and Vorscha frowned in concern.


    Thats enough talking, Khita. Its your turn to spar with me, she told the younger woman.


    Vorscha and Khita then started sparring, and therger woman dominated the other inexperienced fighter. After they had finished training cknail went to rest at his tent for a few minutes. Now that he was done being trained, it was time for him to do some training.


    The hobgoblin walked over to an area beside his tent where Scamp was sulking. He knew the goblin would be there because that was where cknail had tied him up. He had pped a leather cor on him and attached a rope to it. Then he had looped the rope around a nail on a post that was too high for Scamp to reach.


    Of course the goblin could have gotten loose by chewing through the rope, or several other ways, but cknail had made it very clear he would rip the little fellows eyes out and eat them if he did any such thing. The rope simply reminded the forgetful goblin that he wasnt supposed to move.


    Scamp whined pitifully as cknail approached, but the hobgoblin didnt care. He ignored the goblin and instead focused on the rabbit pelts. Today he had given Scamp the job of scrapping them clean, and getting them ready for drying.


    cknail hissed angrily as he noted the goblins poor progress, and Scamp flinched at his reaction. The hobgoblin knew thezy little runt was just trying to get out of work by acting pathetic though. Varhs may have let him get away with that but there was no way cknail would.


    No food-ss for you until youre done! he reminded the goblin before turning and walking away.


    Days passed without anything exciting happening. However, cknail wasable to get Scamp to act at least sort of disciplined. He even began letting Varhs take him for walks, as long as the scout promised to be stern with the goblin. The man was probably lying but cknail didn''t care that much.


    Eventually, it was almost time for Herad and her chosen escorts departure. She called a meeting in the farmhouse she used as a headquarters to go over the final preparations. Her usual lieutenants were there including: Saeter, Red Dog, Vorscha, and a few others.


    cknail hadnt technically been invited, but no one had said he wasnt either. Thus he had followed his master most the way over, and then took up position outside one of the windows. From there his sensitive ears could hear everything being said inside perfectly, although a human would have had problems.


    Tomorrow Ill be leaving with several dozen men. As I told you before Red Dog will be staying here tomand in my stead while Im gone, and Vorscha will serve as his second, Herad told her minions.


    She was seated in a simple wooden chair and a matching table had been ced in front of her. Everyone else was standing in a loose group before her.


    I cant say I like the idea of you leaving with so few men. We have powerful enemies in Daggerpoint, Red Dog replied with a concerned frown.


    I agree. Werick has sworn to kill you, and his men will easily outnumber yours if hes in town, Vorscha added with a nod.


    So what? Thats always been the case. Four dozen is about what Ive taken every time before this. Its only recently Ive even had more, and when we arrive the first thing Ill be doing is recruiting. I know somewhere I can get some trustworthy men, Herad replied.


    The rookies will need supervision to make it through the winter, and wont be up to the march north either, Saeter remarked to Red Dog.


    True, I guess that does limit how many men you can take, Red Dog admitted with a frown.


    Everything in life is a gamble of one sort or another, but enough of this. I didnt call you here to question my decisions, Herad told them coldly, as she stared up at them from her seat.


    Yes, mistress, Red Dog immediately replied as he snapped to attention.


    On top of my personal guard Ill be taking you and Mahedium with me, Herad told Saeter.


    Why me and the mage? Hes gonna be slow, and Im not much use in a ce like Daggerpoint, the old scout replied with a frown.


    Oh, youre wrong as usual old man. Ill have a use for you there. Your name still carries weight in certain circles, if only the gods know why, and that will help me drum up some muscle, she replied smugly. As for the mage, he asked toe and promised it would be worth my trouble. He wants to try digging up some fellow ck spell-slingers to trade notes with.


    Well, Daggerpoint is probably his best bet for that. Theres usually one or two mages around, but anyone he finds in that pit is likely to be just smart enough to know which end of a staff to point at the enemy. You dont need too much in the way of brains to be abat mage, Vorschamented.


    He thinks it will be worth his while, and who knows maybe hes right. Herad said with a dismissive shrug.


    There was then a squealing sound as she pushed her chair back and got to her feet. After a brief look at her lieutenants she walked over to the nearby window. The hobgoblin hiding outside heard hering. He quickly scampered over to a bush off to one side, and then went very still.


    Ill leave early tomorrow morning with the dawn, so make sure youre all ready. When I return no one will be able to challenge my im on this territory, and thats just the beginning! Herad announced to the air outside the window.


    She then turned back around and looked at Red Dog.


    When I get back I expect this ce to be fit for a queen, so no cking off, she told him as she smiled wickedly. Now off with you lot. I have stuff to do, and Im sure you have your own concerns.


    After her dismissal everyone quickly left, lest they annoy their boss. Red Dog threw Herad an uncertain look before walking out through the door. He was unsure how serious hermand about fixing the ce up had been, but if she noticed his concern she didnt bother to enlighten him.


    cknail continued to sit in the bush outside the window for a few seconds until everyone was out of sight. Just as he was about to get up he heard something from inside the house.


    Soon, it will all be mine! Herad whispered lovingly to herself, before chuckling hungrily in anticipation.


    Soon the chuckle died down, and there was only the sound of breathing from inside. Very carefully cknail got up and crept away.


    He was reassured that Herad was confident in her n, despite the others doubts. The more powerful the tribe got the higher his own position could grow, so cknail approved of her ambition.


    She was obviously looking forward to victory a lot too. cknail got like that sometimes, standing over the corpses of your enemies just felt so great. It felt like someone was tickling your brain, and you just wanted to keep on smiling


    The hobgoblin got up and sped around the building. He had to get back to the campsite before Saeter started to question what he had been up to. As he moved he watched the camp for people who looked to be paying him too much attention, and he thought about what he had just heard.


    Mistress Herad had mentioned that Saeter would be going with her, but no one had mentioned him. cknail found himself wishing he could go with Saeter to this human ce called Daggerpoint.


    Things had begun to grow boring around the camp, and he kind of wanted to see a human city again. He had lived in one for years as a goblin and roamed the streets at night after all.


    With the clothes Saeter had given him cknail didnt think he would have too much trouble doing simr things again. Only now he could think of much more exciting things to do after dark, and he knew he could find tastier things to eat than garbage.


    The city would also be full of targets that werent part of his tribe, and thus he would have no reason to hold himself back. It would be nice to finally let loose. Discipline was important, but that didnt mean he could never have fun.


    cknail shivered in eagerness as he pictured it. He could almost already taste the blood.

 Along Twisted Paths 3

    Along Twisted Paths 3


    No one had said it directly, but from listening to people talking cknail swiftly came to the conclusion he wasnt invited to join Herads expedition. That wasnt going to stop him though. He was looking forward to visiting a human city again too much to let a simpleck of permission get in his way.


    So as night fell and everyone went to sleep he started scheming, and he quickly came up with a fool proof n. The best way to make sure he was included in the party sent to Daggerpoint was simple; he wasnt going to ask. If no one knew he was there they couldnt tell him to go back.


    The next morning when Saeter was getting up to get ready to go cknail was nowhere to be found. The hobgoblin had woken up even earlier than usual, and had quickly made his way out into the woods as if he was checking the snares or hunting.


    However, he had no intention of doing his usual routine. As soon as he was out of sight and safely hidden in the forest he stopped to make sure no one else was around. cknail then stealthily crept through the bushes around the edge of the camp.


    When he got to the road he selected a nearby tall tree that overlooked the area, and then he scrambled up it. The bark of the tree was grey and rough, but once he got up into the branches it was easy climbing. Climbing trees took a lot less effort since he had be a hobgoblin because his limbs were so much longer.


    Once he was a couple dozen feet up he stopped and hid on a particr leafy branch that gave him a good view of the surroundings. Then the hobgoblin simply waited for the expedition to leave.


    It only took a few minutes for something to happen. Unseen, up in the tree cknail watched Herad, Saeter, and the rest of their group pour out of the camp and head down the road.


    As he watched he caught a brief nce of red hair. Wait, was that Khita? They were taking that useless human whelp and not him! Why? The hobgoblin glowered down at them from his leafy perch.


    When they were out of sight cknail smiled gleefully again though. Hed show them how sneaky he could be. It was time for him to put his n in action. He hastily climbed down to the ground, and then hurried back through the woods to the far end of the camp.


    Once back in the clearing he calmly walked over to his campsite and packed up some of his things. If he had done it before hand it would have alerted Saeter. There was no way his master would have missed something so obvious.


    That done he picked up his pack and once again strolled over to the back of the camp. He got a few odd looks but no one said anything. Not that a lot of people usually struck up casual conversations with him anyway.


    Once back in the woods he once again circled through the forest towards the road. He stayed hidden and out of sight among the trees for a few minutes as he moved parallel to the road. He didnt want anyone in the camp to see him leave, but moving through the brush was slow so he soon had to move onto the road.


    By this time Herads group had quite a lead on him, but the hobgoblin could keep track of them by their scent. Even if they left the road he wouldnt have any trouble finding them.


    As cknail jogged down the road in pursuit the scent grew stronger until he knew he was almost upon them. The hobgoblin then slowed his pace and grew careful. It would be very bad for him if he was spotted now.


    When he finally caught up he risked only a quick nce at the humans, before falling back out of sight and continuing to track them by scent. Herad was leading the way and dressed in her usual attire. Saeter was walking directly behind her, and the rest of the bandits followed him. They all had long hooded travelers cloaks meant for keeping people warm and dry.


    Only when they slowed or stopped did cknail slip into the woods and observe the humans while concealed among the trees. He kept careful watch on Saeter in particr. If anyone was going to spot him it would be his master.


    As they walked cknail had a lot of fun trailing Herads group. Some part of him just loved the act of stalking. It filled him with eager energy and just felt right, like he was doing what he was meant to. He didnt mean his tribe any harm, but it was still exciting to fool them.


    After a few hours though the humans stopped walking and came to a stop. The reason for this was both very obvious, and very rming. The forest was full of the sound of cracking tree branches and the thud of heavy footsteps. The source of the noise was easy to spot. Several massive brown creatures were moving through the edge of the forest along the path ahead of them.


    They were easily thergest creatures cknail had ever seen, much bigger than even the troll had been. Like trolls they had two thick legs and two long arms, but thats where the resemnce ended. They were easily three times as tall as any man, many more times as heavy, and covered in thick brown hair.


    Most of them moved ponderously on all four limbs, but every once and awhile one would rear up onto its back legs and walk around that way for short distances. It would then reach up into nearby trees and rip branches down. The end of their arms ended in truly impressive ws that shredded the wood effortlessly. There were five ws on each hand, and they were as long as swords.


    cknail was too far away to get a good look at their blunt faces, but tworge curled horns rose from their heads. The beasts brought the leafy branches they tore down from the trees to their mouths and chewed them. That meant they were either eating some very slow and stupid tree rats, or they were nt eaters. The hobgoblin vaguely remembered his master mentioning something like them, but he had forgotten their name.


    Feeling extremely curious, cknail used the distraction the creatures were creating in order to move closer to Herad and the others. He wanted to hear what they were saying. Carefully, cknail slipped into the bushes at the edge of the road. He then stealthily made his way right up behind the position the bandits had taken.


    They had stopped on the road a fair distance from the giants, and were talking amongst themselves as they watched the beasts. cknail managed to get within two dozen feet of the humans. That was more than close enough for him to hear everything they said, even with all the noise the beasts were making.


    ogres will move on in a bit. We just have to be patient. Theres no reason to leave the safety of the road. Right now theyre watching us. If we all stumble into the forest we might spook them, and that could end badly, Saeter was telling Herad.


    The bandit chieftain was looking impatient, and notpletely convinced by cknails masters words. She was scowling at the ogres, and her hands were on her hips. She looked like she wanted to single handily kill the beasts that had dared slow her down, but then she sighed.


    Fine, tell the men well be resting for a bit. Well be doubling the pace when the way is clear though, to make up for lost time, she said.


    Saeter nodded and then moved to fulfill her orders. He moved slower than usual and didnt make any loud noises, probably as not to spook the ogres.


    As cknails master had suggested the bandits simply held their position and waited for the ogres to move away from the road. As the minutes passed the giants continued to move ponderously from tree to tree so they could eat the leaves and fruit.


    Every once and a while an ogre would turn towards the bandits and give them a curious or wary look, but they didnt seem too concerned by the presence of humans. That was definitely a good thing because cknail didnt think even Herad could take on several of the gigantic beasts. It would be like a goblin trying to wrestle arge man; the goblin would without a doubt end up stomped t.


    Just as cknail was beginning to rx, a deep roar suddenly pierced through the ogres racket. Instantly, the giants all stood up on their hind legs and looked rmed. They scanned the forest, as it grew eerily quiet in every direction. Even the birds went silent, and deep sense of unease started to grow in cknails gut.


    Hells, a drake, whispered Saeter, as all the bandits around him grew stiff with fear.


    Its not close, right? one of the other bandits asked him fearfully.


    Shh, shut your trap, Saeter hissed back at him in reply.


    Another louder roar filled the air. The sound seemed to ricochet through the trees, and caused cknail a shiver to crawl up his back. His instincts were suddenly screaming at him to find a nearby hole and disappear down into it. If he hadnt been worried about losing sight of his master he might have listened.


    Saeter seemed to be listening intently. When the drake had roared a second time his head had whipped around, and he was now staring at the forest behind the ogres.


    Shit, we need to move. Now! Saeter warned Herad urgently.


    Before he could get a response the sound of splintering wood and the unmistakable boom of a falling tree echoed through the forest. Several of the ogres flinched, and Saeter immediately started running back down the road the way they hade.


    Fall in and follow or youre dead meat! Heradmanded everyone before taking off after the scout.


    With a scared snort one of the ogres dropped down on all fours and started to flee. After a second of hesitation another ogre quickly joined it. Then with a chorus of rmed huffs and snorts all the giants took off in pursuit of the first two, and almost directly towards where the bandits were standing.


    Several of the bandits froze for a second as the ogres barreled towards them. Most of them though immediately joined Herad in retreating out of the stampeding beasts path, and the rest were quick to follow.


    Several of them looked like they were screaming and shouting in fear but cknail couldnt hear them over the thunderous noise of the running giants. The ground was shaking beneath him and he could see the leaves of nearby trees shaking.


    The vibrations made running more difficult than usual, which was bad because the ogres were headed in cknails direction. The hobgoblin had wasted no time; he had started running as soon Herad had.


    On all fours he scrambled through the trees at the side of the road after his master. He whipped through bushes and tore up dirt and leaves as he ran. He could hear the ogres growing closer, and didnt want to find out what they thought of hobgoblins.


    A bright red fox red suddenly burst out of a nearby thicket and began racing alongside the hobgoblin. They both gave each other surprised looks, but neither stopped running or even changed directions.


    cknail heard the sound of splintering wood behind him, and redoubled his pace. His heart was beating frantically in his chest. Being near the stampeding ogres reminded him too much of when he had been a little goblin, and beneath the notice ofrger creatures.


    Then the thud of heavy footsteps started to die down. cknail gave a relieved sigh and let himself slow down. The fox that had been running beside him sped off into the trees. Now the noise of the stampeding ogres had almostpletely faded, and the forest no longer seemed to be shaking.


    cknail leaned against a nearby tree trunk and sucked down a quick breath. Gradually his heartbeat returned to normal. He was tired after such a hard sprint, but d to still be alive.


    Once he had recovered he went to check out the road for signs of his tribe. He nced around a tree at the forests edge and saw that Herad and her minions seemed fine. They were just recovering from their own mad sprint.


    Saeter was motioning everyone off the road and into the ditch beside it. cknail smiled after he saw that everyone was alright. He would have hated it if they had decided to turn back around and go back to camp.


    Just then there was another loud boom. cknail whipped around to look a fair distance up the road towards its source. He was just in time to see a massive shape bound out of the trees and across the road, before disappearing into the forest on the other side. It hadnt been an ogre; it had been muchrger and faster.


    cknail gulped as his stomach twisted in fear again. The hobgoblin had only got a quick look at the creature, but unlike an ogre it had obviously had a long neck and tail. It could only have been a drake; one of the rulers of the forest that Saeter was always telling him about. The most dangerous creatures you could run into, and likely thest.


    Both Herads group and cknail stayed still and hidden for the next while. Only after several long minutes had passed did the bandits get up and resume their trek to Daggerpoint. cknail followed them as closely as he could without being seen. He really didnt want to be left behind right now.


    Much to everyones relief no more drake screams were heard, and the rest of the day was fairly uneventful. It began to get dark, but Herad kept pushing them to keep going. cknail was starting to wonder if they were even going to stop for the night when they came upon an abandoned stone building at the side of the road.


    Even in the dark it was easy to see it was in poor repair. It bore signs of once being an impressive building, but there was an obvious hole in the roof and one of the walls had copsed. It would still be a much safer and dryer ce to sleep than outside though, so the bandits all headed inside.


    As cknail moved to follow them he noticed signs of other long decayed wooden buildings among the grass and bushes. A sizable human settlement must have once stood there, but now only the onerge building remained to remind travelers that a flourishing vige had once stood there.


    The hobgoblin could see and hear much better than the humans in the darkness, so he had no problem creeping up to the building in the dark. The bandits were just setting up camp and building a fire for the night. The light from the mes served only to hinder the humans night vision and make his approach easier.


    The hobgoblin slipped up beside one of the outside walls. He watched and listened for awhile through small hole that gave him a clear view of the inside. It was pretty boring stuff though. The only thing even remotely of interest that he learned was that the building was called a temple, and supposed to be good luck or something. Soon the bandits started going to sleep, and that was really tedious to watch so cknail moved away.


    He had to figure out where he was going to rest for the night as well. He hadnt brought his tent, but he had brought a pair of nkets. Carefully, cknail explored the area around the temple.


    Crumbled stone bricks and thick bushes surrounded the old building. A few dozen feet away through the darkness the thick growth of the forest loomed.


    The hobgoblin didnt want to move too close to the dark woods. He had no idea what might be lurking out there. He could hear crickets chirping and leaves rustling, but it was what he couldnt hear that worried him. He had been reminded earlier that no matter how experienced you became the forest always contained new unseen dangers.


    He felt much safer closer to Saeter and the bandits than out there. He couldnt get too close to them though, or he would be seen.


    After a few frustrating minute spent circling the temple cknail noticed fire light flickering through a window near the roof of the building. With a surge of excitement the hobgoblin began to climb his way up to it. The old weathered stone walls were easy to grip; he just had to watch out for loose bricks.


    Once up there he found a shadowy ledge that was concealed from both below and outside. It was the perfect ce to sleep, so cknailid out his nkets.


    He then briefly nced down at the bandits and Saeter. They were gathered around their fire and most of them were asleep. Saeter appeared to be on watch though because he was one of the few still up and about.


    cknails master was drinking something from a cup while seated on a piece of rubble. He was looking outside into the darkness through one of the doors, but then he leisurely turned and looked up towards the hobgoblins hiding spot.


    cknail leaned into the shadows and held his breath, but Saeter soon turned back to the door. He didnt appear to have seen anything because the old scout was still rxed and casually took another sip from his drink.


    cknail turned away andy down on his spread out nkets. As the light of the mes below flickered over the roof above him the hobgoblin gave a silent yawn, and closed his eyes. It didnt take long for sleep to ovee him.

 Along Twisted Paths 4

    Along Twisted Paths 4


    Herads group was out and moving early the next morning. They continued their march North, but nothing more interesting than the asional passing traveler happened. Herad mostly ignored them, she had ces to be and better things to do than rob peddlers and peasants. No one who had anything worth stealing traveled alone in the North.


    When night came cknail usually slept up in a tree just out of reach of the light of the humans fire. The next day they passed a few more abandoned viges, but no upied ones. This confused the hobgoblin. Who had created all these viges and why had they been destroyed? Had some monster from the forest leveled them?


    They did pass the asionalrge walled human settlement, but Herad avoided them. cknail considered scaling one of the walls in the night but thought better of it. He would have plenty of time for that when they got to Daggerpoint.


    The scenery began to change as they continued their journey. The grey and white mountains that rose on the horizon started to grow everrger. The terrain also became much rougher, and the road began winding up hills and along tall rocky cliffs. The steeper terrain was harder to traverse, so the bandits grew tired and their progress slowed.


    At one point they had to cross a rickety wooden bridge over a river. The river was extremely wide, and its frothy white waters roared as they swept down from the distant mountains. There was no way anyone could possibly swim across the raging river.


    After everyone else had carefully crossed the bridge, cknail eyed it suspiciously. It was quite possible that Saeter would have left a lookout on the bridge, just in case someone was following them. The hobgoblin was so paranoid about it that he waited a quarter of the day before crossing. Luckily he had arge advantage over humans in that he could follow their scent. There was little chance of him losing them.


    He did however have to run quite a bit that day to catch up. When he finally found them again it had grown dark, and his human tribesman were setting up for the night. Idly cknail wondered how long it would take to actually reach Daggerpoint. He probably should have figured that out before he followed Herad North, but there was no going back now. He hoped it wasnt too much longer, his feet were getting more than a little sore.


    cknailzily circled the humans camp as he once again searched for somewhere safe to sleep for the night. As he was creeping through the woods he heard a noise out on the road. At first he thought one of the bandits had slipped past him, but then he dismissed that as unlikely.


    Cautiously, he slipped through the dark woods to check it out. He was fairly sure it wasnt anything too dangerous, but you could never be too sure out in the wilderness.


    What he saw surprised him. There were two humans walking along the road, and headed for the light of the bandits campfire. Feeling curious, and rather bored after several days by himself, the hobgoblin decided to investigate.


    The two humans didnt appear to have any obvious weapons so cknail flipped his hood up and walked out of the bushes. He heard a gasp of shock and saw the two darkened forms flinch as he emerged onto the road. He didnt want to scare them right away so he raised his hand in a human gesture of greeting.


    Hello, I wont harm you, he announced in his best imitation of a human voice.


    Who are you? Are you from the fire? therger one, who smelled male, asked him.


    Im a friend. No, Im not from the fire. Theyre bandits, and bad. Theyll take your stuff and kill you, cknail replied.


    The two humans nced at each other. They seemed very unsure, and suspicious of cknail. The hobgoblin didnt know why, he thought he was doing a very good impression of a human.


    How do we know youre not the bandit and trying to lure us away from safety, the man replied.


    cknail hesitated and scowled. The stupid humans didnt even know when someone was trying to help them. How could they not trust him? He was very honest.


    I could take you to get a look at them? he offered.


    If these humans were going to be so annoying than cknail was just going to leave them, or kill and rob them himself. Maybe they had interesting shiny things he could take?


    The pair leaned close and whispered to each other for a few seconds. Then, the shorter one who smelled female spoke up.


    No, thats fine. We hoped to find safety at the fire, but deep down we knew finding refuge there would be too convenient. It was unlikely at best that anyone friendly would be out here. Thank you for the warning, she told him with a heavy sigh.


    The woman, and thats definitely what she sounded like, looked tired and miserable. The man reached around her shoulders and pulled her closer into a reassuring hug.


    We shouldntin since were lucky you were here to warn us. I dont suppose you have somewhere safe to rest for the night? he asked.


    cknail thought it over. He had been scouting the forest for awhile looking for somewhere to rest. In that time he had discovered a small cave. He had initially disregarded it because it was too big and open for one person, but with three people they could set a guard.


    I found a cave earlier. You could rest there, he offered.


    That sounds better than staying out here in the dark. If you dont mind me asking what are you doing out here, and whats your name? the man asked him.


    cknail hesitated as he tried to figure out what the right answer was. He knew his name was odd for a human so he said the first name that popped into his head.


    Im Saeter, the man. I was out hunting when I saw the fire, so I snuck up and spied on them. Im very sneaky, he told them.


    cknail was rather proud of his lies. How could the humans not believe him? They were perfect. This was turning out to be rather fun break from all the walking.


    Right well, lets see this cave of yours, the man told him.


    With a nod of agreement cknail led them through the woods away from the bandits and down an incline. There, the cave mouth was visible in the exposed rocky side of the hill they had juste down. It was however too dark to see inside now, at least for a human.


    Is it safe to light antern, do you think? the man asked cknail.


    Yes, theres no one to see it here, the hobgoblin replied.


    The man then reached into his bag and withdrew a small metal handntern. It smelled of ash and oil to cknail. The man got out a flint and steel and began trying to set thentern wick alight. It took a few seconds to catch properly, but then the surroundings were lit by the small flickering me.


    The man held the light up in front of him and the inside if the cave was revealed. The cave only extended a little more than two dozen feet past the narrow gash in the rock that served as its entrance. There was however plenty of room for three people inside, and it served as shelter from both the wind and observers.


    Its going to be awfully dark inside there when we snuff thentern, the woman remarked.


    You set up. Ill get some wood for a fire, cknail told the pair.


    Thatll be very dangerous in the dark, the man said in concern.


    The hobgoblin just shrugged and started walking back to the road.


    Im very sneaky, he replied as he disappeared into the dark.


    cknail wasnt stupid. He wasnt going to wander the woods looking for dry wood. That did indeed sound like a good way to get killed, and it was totally unnecessary. He just had to borrow some wood from Herads group. They were all the same tribe so it was kind of his wood anyway.


    By this point most the bandits had drifted off to sleep, except for the two men on watch. It was thus a simple feat for cknail to creep up through the blind spot created by some of the tents, and make off with some of their wood and tinder.


    They had a fairlyrge pile of wood piled up against one tent. It was now substantially smaller though, and it amused cknail greatly to wonder what they would think when they noticed it was missing. He almost considered waiting around to see their faces, but that could take forever and would be dangerous.


    When cknail got back to the cave the pair of humans he had saved from the bandits had finished settling down for the night. The woman was lying down on a low rock ledge. Her rough travelers clothes were set ced beside her, and she was between a pair of thick nkets.


    The man had set his own gear down, and unpacked his nkets on the ground close to her. He was standing guard inside the entrance of the cave instead of resting though.


    He seemed tense and stiff as gazed out into the darkness, but he rxed a little when he saw cknail approach carrying a heavy load of wood. Thentern was behind him on the ground in the center of the cave floor. The light it cast was very weak and barely illuminated the cave.


    Im d youre back, Saeter. I was getting worried about you. Where did you get that wood? It looks like it was split with an axe, he asked.


    I knew a ce to get it, the hobgoblin exined as he walked inside.


    Ah, a huntsmans cache. You must travel through here a lot. We were truly fortunate to run into a good man like you, the man told him.


    cknail just gave another shrug and begun setting up the fire. He was pretty great, but he wasnt a man. He smelled much better for one thing.


    He built the small fire near the caves mouth so smoke could escape, and so it would serve as a barrier against wild animals. He was careful to face away from the man so that the shadows concealed his face as he worked.


    Once he had seeded in using his flint and steel to light the tinder and wood cknail withdrew into the far corner of the cave where the shadows were deepest. He didnt want his new friends to get a glimpse of his green skin.


    In the dark corner he started setting up his own sleeping ce. As he was working the man started talking again.


    Im sorry for not introducing myself earlier, Saeter. Im Rickas, and thats my wife Selstia. Were travelling north for our own reasons. Thanks again for helping us. I wish we had some way to repay you, but we dont have much, he said.


    Got any cheese? cknail asked hopefully. He really liked cheese.


    Er, yes. I have a small piece left. Youre more than wee to it, Rickas replied uncertainly before digging through his pack and tossing cknail a small package.


    The hobgoblin caught the cheese. He could already smell its poignant scent through the cloth it was wrapped in. Cheerfully he unwrapped it and then slowly savored its sharp taste. He had eaten all his cheese days ago.


    Well, Saeter um I can tell Elorian isnt your firstnguage. What is your native tongue? the man asked the hobgoblin.


    cknail froze in the middle of eating. There was more than one humannguage? Why? He didnt know of any othernguages, what was he supposed to say?


    Luckily, Rickas noticed his hesitation, and interpreted it in his own way.


    Im sorry if it sounded like I was prying. I was simply trying to make conversation, but I see now that you are a private person, he said apologetically.


    No problem. Do you want first watch? cknail responded in relief.


    Thats fine with me. Ill wake you when my watch is over, Rickus said.


    Good, but just call out cknail to wake me. Dont get too close. Im a private person, cknail replied as he ced his sheathed sword against the wall in a very obvious gesture.


    Rickus looked confused for a second, but then nodded in understanding.


    Ah I see, thats a codeword of some sort? Anyway, I assure you that were no threat to you, but Ill do as you ask, he told the hobgoblin.


    cknail then sat down and leaned his back against the wall. He had ced his nket beneath and behind himself to serve as a cushion. His form was stillpletely concealed by his clothes, hood, and the shadows. He wasnt too concerned about the humans sneaking up on him as he slept. He was a very light sleeper when he wanted to be.


    The next morning cknail woke early and went out scouting. When the rest of his tribe had gone down the road he headed back to the cave. After a brief talk with Rickus and Selstia they parted ways. The pair once again thanked him profusely for all his help.


    The hobgoblin rather liked all the praise they were giving him. He was d he hadnt let them wander into Herad, and that he hadnt killed them either.


    As he sauntered off in pursuit of Saeter and the others, he heard the pair talking to each other.


    I know he saved us, but hes still creepy. Neither of us got a look at his face the entire time we were with him. He was alwayspletely covered by his clothes, and never got too close to us. Thats more than a little odd, Selstia murmured to her husband.


    True, but he probably has his reasons. Maybe hes a wanted man or is scarred. Why else would he hide his face, and live out here? Rickas replied.


    What about his voice? she countered.


    He probably has a damaged throat, or was hiding his voice as well, her husband guessed.


    Maybe, but theres still something off about him. Something different she replied doubtfully.


    What, you think he was secretly one of the forest people? Like in the myths where travelers stumble upon a mysterious stranger who helps them out or tricks them. You didnt idently promise him our firstborn did you? her husband asked teasingly.


    I know youre joking, but I cant help but think that you just might be right. It would certainly exin a lot, cknail heard Selstia say before they were out of his hearing range.


    cknail would have liked to stalk his new friends for awhile and hear more of their conversation, but he was in a rush. Herad and his master had gotten quite a head start on him now.


    He broke into a light jog when he got back onto the road so that he could catch up. Herad must have been pushing her minions hard because even after an hour passed cknail had yet to catch a glimpse of them. He would have worried but the scent of their passing assured him that he was still on their trail.


    As he jogged down the forest road he came across a break in the trees. On one side of him the forest was reced with thick heavy bush. There were only a few scattered young trees growing there. Without the heavy tree cover to stifle it the hobgoblin felt the wind around him pick up. Its caress cooled him off and felt refreshing as it blew under his clothes.


    cknail thought he saw what looked like a copsed building deep within the clearing. It reminded him of what Herads base had looked like when he had first seen it, but with more bushes. The whole area must have once been a human farm that was now slowly being swallowed by the forest.


    He continued jogging along, but when cknail was about halfway through the clearing a rustling noise caught his attention. It was probably just a rabbit or something, but just to be sure he slowed his gait and focused on listening for a second.


    The sound of several more things moving alongside him in the bushes reached his ears. That wasnt good. Rabbits didnt move in packs and stalk hobgoblins.


    Feeling a surge of acidic panic work its way up from his gut cknail picked up his pace, and gripped his sword hilt. If anything decided to jump him he was going to give it a face full of steel. That would discourage most of the things that lived out in the wilds but unfortunately not all of them.


    The sounds moved closer and cknail noticed the bushes began to tremble as something ran through them. Whatever these things were they were clearly not afraid of him. He sniffed the air for a hint of what was approaching, but the wind was blowing in the wrong direction. All he could smell was trees and earth.


    Suddenly up ahead of him the shrubs shook as somethingunched itself out of them. A shocked cknail had to throw himself to the side to avoid the stone projectile that whirled past his head. Hended on all fours and hissed in rm as a creature stepped out of the bushes and cut off the road in front of him. He had never seen one before, but he knew without a doubt what it was.


    His opponent answered his hiss with a screech of challenge. The figure wore a dirty hide loincloth and brandished two crude stone axes high above its head. Its skin was green and two horns rose up from its unruly grey hair.


    It was a hobgoblin and it had brought friends. Shrieking goblins began to emerge from hiding all around cknail until he waspletely surrounded and couldn''t escape. The goblins waved rocks and crude stone tipped spears in his direction. Their eyes were filled with hate and cruel excitement.


    "Human shit," cknail swore nervously from where he was crouched on the ground.


    He had idently stumbled into the territory of another hobgoblin.

 Along Twisted Paths 5

    Along Twisted Paths 5


    cknail was very badly outnumbered. He drew his sword and dropped his pack on the ground. Furious goblins encircled him. The green swarm was shrieking and waving their crude stone weapons. It would have beenical if not for the mad gleam in the goblins eyes.


    He didnt do more than nce their way though. cknails own eyes were locked on the hobgoblin that stood in front of him. If he looked away it would be a sign of weakness, and one he couldnt afford.


    The other hobgoblins crude loincloth did little to conceal its body; so it was obviously male. It red evilly at cknail, and growled as it raised its axes threateningly. The weapons looked to have been made from pieces of chipped stone that had been secured to fire hardened branches. They were obviously crude weapons, but still very dangerous looking.


    Out of the corner of his eye cknail observed the goblins around him. They hadnt attacked him yet, but when they did they would swiftly overwhelm him. They might be small and weak but there were a bloody lot of them, and they seemed quite angry. His best bet was to deal with the hobgoblin quickly, and hope that would scare the goblins into submission.


    Of course the other hobgoblin was noticeablyrger and older than cknail. Several long pale scars decorated his exposed skin, and a particr nasty looking one ran down his left eye. His most distinct feature however was his ck horns. Both of them were over half a foot long and branched like small antlers.


    They were impressive, and cknail found himself more than a little intimidated by them. His own horns had never really had a chance to grow because he had taken to filing them down. They might look imposing but horns made disguising himself and wearing hats impossible. Still, he really wished he had a pair now.


    cknail hissed angrily and waved his own weapon around as he took a step towards the hobgoblin. He needed to make this a challenge between the two of them. There was no way he could defeat the swarm of goblins as well as their hobgoblin leader.


    Hey, stupid tree head! Youre ugly, and Im going to cut you up, cknail growled as he took another step forward.


    He knew the other hobgoblin couldnt understand his words, but he didnt need to. There was no way he could misunderstand cknails tone of voice and bodynguage.


    The two hobgoblins postured and growled at each other for a few seconds as they slowly moved closer and began to circle each other. The watching goblins howls of anger turned to excitement. They were now eager to see the two hobgoblins fight.


    cknail smiled; he had seeded in making this a one on one fight for dominance. He took another step forward, and then suddenly lunged. He shed violently down at the other hobgoblin with his de.


    His opponent reacted faster than anyone cknail had ever fought before. He easily hopped back out of the attacks range, and instead of counterattacking he simply eyed cknails sword suspiciously.


    cknail frowned as he realized his enemy was far from stupid, and knew how dangerous his sword could be. That changed things slightly. Before he could think through the implications though the other hobgoblin attacked.


    One of his stone axes hurtled towards cknails head as his opponent swung it. Even while surprised cknail knew better than to try and block it. The axe was heavy, and the horned hobgoblin was bigger and stronger looking than him. Instead, he slipped to the side and out of the way.


    The second axe soon followed. cknails opponent jumped and swung it down at him. Again cknail tried to slip to the side, but just as he was readying his counterattack the other goblin threw his first axe. cknail was caught off guard and flinched as the axe hurtled towards his face.


    He jerked his sword up and desperately tried to deflect the savage projectile, but he only managed to graze it. The axe bounced off his weapon and smashed into his shoulder. The weapon didnt hit edge first but it still cut into him, and it definitely hurt a lot. cknail let out a hiss as pain ripped through his side. The attack left only a small cut but his arm had gone numb from the impact.


    cknail growled loudly as he sized up his opponent anew. The horned hobgoblin was hanging back and watching cknail for any sign of weakness now. Around their small patch of road the goblins were jeering and chattering excitedly. Things were still rtively even though. cknails one arm was injured but his opponent had lost a weapon.


    Rather than show weakness before his opponent and the watching goblins cknail attacked again. He unleashed a flurry of quick shes at the horned hobgoblins body and hands. His opponent countered by stepping back and trying to smash cknails de down with his own heavier weapon.


    cknails lightning fast shes drew blood and opened several small gashes on his opponents arms and ribs. He smiled victoriously as the scent of his enemys blood filled the air. However, cknails sore arm suddenly red with pain and hisst sh faltered.


    His opponent seized the opportunity and brought his axe down on cknails de. The stone edge of the hobgoblins crude axe shattered, but the impact shocked cknails injured arm and it went numb. He lost his grip on the sword, and it was ripped painfully from his hands.


    The horned hobgoblin shrieked joyously and dropped his own damaged weapon. As cknail was still reeling in pain the other hobgoblin leapt and tackled him to the ground.


    cknail was knocked onto his back, as his opponentnded on his chest. The horned hobgoblin straddled cknail, reached down, and began to viciously strangle him. cknail coughed as his throat was forced closed and he lost the ability to breath.


    He tried to wriggle and escape but it didnt work. The feral hobgoblin grinned gleefully down at him as he chocked the life from him. cknail felt himself grow light headed and weaker, as he futilely tried to suck down air. With his opponents superior strength and weight it was nigh impossible for cknail to get free.


    So he didnt try. Instead, he reached under his cloak with his good hand and drew his dagger. Then, he brought it up and savagely stabbed the horned hobgoblin in the side under the ribs. Then he did it again, and again. Then he did it onest time just to make himself feel better.


    His opponent coughed, and blood sttered all over cknails face. The other hobgoblin went ck and then shivered as his grip on cknails neck loosened. Herads minion unceremoniously pushed his now twitching and coughing opponent off, and then rose to his feet.


    Around him the circle of goblins had gone silent and they now stared at cknail intently. cknail repressed the urge to fall over and stared them down. Then, the goblins suddenly broke out into shrill cheering, and rushed over to surround him. Their excitement was obnoxiously loud.


    The goblins pressed against him as they tried to reach out and paw the victor. cknail would have pulled away, but they came at him from every direction at once. Soon he was being jostled and pushed as the swarm around him moved.


    The surprised hobgoblin tried to shove through them and escape from the mass of unwashed goblins. The little critters had really dirty hands. cknail didnt know what they had been touching, but he knew he didnt like the fact they were getting it all over his clothes.


    One of the goblins broke away and stepped over to examine the pack cknail had dropped earlier. The hobgoblin saw him and growled menacingly as he tried to push the goblins away.


    Mine! Back, you little thief, cknail barked angrily.


    The swarm of goblins around him scattered as his furious yell rang in their ears. The startled goblins retreated from him and began running around and yelling as well.


    cknail ignored them and knocked any goblins in his way out of his path as he lunged towards his pack. The goblin that was riffling through the contents of the backpack saw himing and quickly ran off into the nearby bushes.


    cknail briefly checked to make sure that nothing was missing before quickly snatching his bag up. Then he patted himself down to make sure none of the goblins from earlier had stolen anything, and of course they had. He was missing a dagger and a pouch.


    Little thieves, bad goblins, he hissed as he scanned the nearby goblins for signs of his stuff.


    He saw his pouch in the hands of one of them, and moved to grab it back. He was too slow though and the green thief slipped away into the bushes at the side of the road. cknail growled and immediately followed after him.


    He swatted branches and nts out of the way as he pursued his target through the thick scrund. His arm was still sore though, and he was quickly growing tired. This feral pack of thieves was beginning to really annoy him.


    He followed the goblin for several minutes until he stepped out of the bushes and into the ruins of an old human house. It looked to have once been fairlyrge but it had long ago crumbled away. Only an uneven square of cracked bricks a few feet high remained to mark where the houses exterior walls had once stood.


    The ground between the ruins was still hard packed enough that only a few small nts and grass grew there. The result was a small clearing, and the ce reeked of goblins.


    As the hobgoblin looked around he spotted a pile of ashes and burnt stones that marked the location of a fire pit. It had clearly seen recent use. Other signs of goblin activity, such as tracks and small animal bones, littered the area as well.


    cknail heard the bushes behind him shake and he nced back over his shoulder to see several goblins emerge from the bushes behind him. They cringed and lowered their eyes submissively when he threw a re their way.


    He ignored them; they werent a threat anymore. Goblins such as these feral pipsqueaks would never pick a fight with a hobgoblin such as him. Their natural ce was below him.


    Now cknail just needed to find his pouch so he could get going. Every minute he wasted here the rest of his tribe got further and further away.


    He scanned the surroundings for signs of the thief, and quickly spotted what looked to be the entrance to an old basement or cer hidden among the rubble. He smiled and headed towards it.


    The rough stone and mortar walls of the stairway were still intact, but the steps had long ago shifted and eroded. This made the walk down the ruined stairway treacherous. Luckily, cknail had both very good night vision and excellent bnce.


    It took his eyes a few seconds to adjust to the dark but when he made it to the bottom of the passage he got a good look at the goblins den. It was arge room big enough to hold dozens of people, or many more goblins than that. Like the stairway down, the old cers walls were rough stone with mortar holding them in ce. The room had obviously originally been constructed by humans.


    The floor was packed earth, but cknail was unsure if it had always been that way or if the dirt had built up after it had been abandoned. Signs of goblin habitation were everywhere. Collected bits of feathers, wood, and human trash were scattered around the floor ; not to mention several insects buzzed around among the garbage.


    The only sources of light were the passage behind cknail and a small tunnel some of the goblins had dug in the far wall. Goblins always had more than one entrance to their dens, so that they could flee from predators. It looked big enough for a hobgoblin as well, but it would be a tight squeeze.


    Over in one corner there was a ttened pile of dried nts and bits of cloth. It looked like the horned hobgoblins old bed to cknail. He sneered at it; his bed was much better.


    The hobgoblin then noticed his pouch on the ground beside the rear tunnel. He quickly jumped over and scooped it up before another goblin could appear and make off with it. He felt relief wash over him when it was back on his hip were it belonged. He was d he didnt have to spend any more time looking for it.


    Just then a feeling of dizziness overcame cknail, and he realized he was starting to feel tired and sore from his earlier fight with the hobgoblin. That didnt surprise him; he had kind of gotten the shit kicked out of him. His opponent had got a few lucky blows in.


    He moved over to the grass bed in the corner and sat down. He just needed a moment to rest, and this den was probably safer and morefortable than anywhere else he could find.


    As the hobgoblin surveyed the room around him his throat suddenly tightened and he was ovee with a feeling of homesickness. It wasnt quite the same but the cer definitely reminded him of the sewers he had grown up in. That seemed like a lifetime ago now, even though it had only been several months. So many things had changed.


    His arm gave a twinge of pain so cknail removed his cloak and shirt to get a better look at it. The cut had already stopped bleeding, but there was a really nasty deep purple bruise forming around it. cknail winced as he examined it.


    The gash was really going to start hurting once the rush from the fight wore off. He was not looking forward to that at all. That stupid feral hobgoblin, with the alright looking horns, had gotten lucky during their fight.


    Carefully cknail began to clean and wrap the cut using supplies from his pack. By the time he was done his earlier excitement from the fight hadpletely worn off. cknail yawned as the fatigue from the struggle and all his travelling caught up to him all at once.


    He decided to take a quick nap, just for a bit, so that he had some energy for the road. With a little rest he would probably be able to move faster anyway


    Lazily, cknail took out his Flybane and began applying it. Once he had applied enough to keep the bugs away while he rested he yawned again. Then, heid his head down on his pack as if it was a pillow. He would just close his eyes for a second so he could rest better


    cknail woke to the grumbling of his stomach. For a second he wondered why he was so hungry, but then he sniffed the air. The hobgoblin quickly sat up and looked around. Several goblins were cautiously loitering around the den, and they had apparentlyid out a spread of food for him.


    A collection of berries and nuts were piled on some leaves in front of him, and that wasnt all. They had also ced a dead rabbit there and returned his knife as well. cknail eyed the nervous looking goblins, and then sniffed the food warily. It smelled very good; better than the dried human food he had been eating on the road. Maybe this tribe wasnt so bad after all.


    cknail quickly scoffed the berries and nuts down, which just left the rabbit. He grabbed both it and his knife as he headed up aboveground. Goblins scattered nervously out of his way when he moved.


    As he climbed the slippery passage upwards he was rmed to see that it had grown darker. Hopefully it was just some cloud cover. Quickly, he jumped outside and looked up at the sky. The sun was starting to set; he had slept for almost the entire day.


    Damnnation-ss and rot! he cursed in frustration.


    He would never be able to catch up with the rest of his tribe before night now. That left him only two options. He could either take his chances and sleep alone in the forest by the road, or stay here for the night. There were also his injuries to consider. The smell of his blood would draw predators to him like flies to shit.


    With a resigned sigh cknail ced the rabbit carcass on a nearby rock and went to gather some wood. Several goblins trailed after him.


    It didnt take long for him to gather up quite a bit of wood. The area was full of it, and as he worked more and more goblins joined him. In the beginning only a few of them silently followed him around, but as he gathered up pieces of wood and tinder they began to whisper among themselves and copy him.


    Soon almost two dozen goblins were running everywhere and collecting fuel for the fire. An amused cknail soon stopped doing thebor himself and instead headed back to get a fire started. As he worked to light the tinder goblin after goblin appeared to drop loads of twigs and branches at his feet. Soon he had far more fuel than he needed, and a roaring fire.


    As the mes roared higher even more goblins appeared to see what was going on. cknail counted about three dozen of them, which was probably the entire tribe. There were several small goblings and pregnant females among them.


    They must have been hiding from the unknown hobgoblin when he first arrived. He didnt me them. Goblin leadership transitions were often bloody, even without throwing hobgoblins into the mix.


    cknail didnt care about them in the least so he ignored them, and started skinning the rabbit. He enjoyed eating them raw, but after so many days on the road he felt like hot food. In fact he felt like more than just rabbit. Had he seen a pot below?


    cknail wandered back down into the den. His memory was right, and in one corner of the room there was arge ckened steel pot. The humans must have left it behind when they deserted the vige, and the goblins had imed it when they moved in. Among the trash he also found several wooden mugs and bowls.


    The hobgoblin grabbed all the stuff and dragged it up to the fire. Working quickly, he grabbed arge branch and stuck it into the ground on an angle so that it leaned over the fire. Then he propped it up by cing a rock under it, and another atop the buried part.


    Now he just needed some water, and some other ingredients. cknail turned to the closest goblin and repeated the word his tribe had used for water. The goblin just tilted his head to the side and gave cknail a bewildered look.


    The hobgoblin sighed and began top up imaginary water from his cupped hands. It was more than a little embarrassing. This was really beneath his dignity. The goblin just continued to stare at him with a confused expression.


    However, another goblin off to the side made an excited sound and rushed over. This goblins eyes were wide with recognition, and he began to gibber excitedly. He was an averaged sized goblin with a slight blue cast to his skin and a few strands of grey hair on the crown of his head.


    cknail made a shooing motion towards the bushes. His eager helper ran up to the border and looked back to see if the hobgoblin was following. cknail went after the goblin and trailed him for a few minutes until they came to a small bubbling creek.


    After scanning it carefully for any sign of a concealed tyrant turtle he approached it and took a drink. That done he filled the two cups he was holding and gave one to his guide.


    When they got back to the den the hobgoblin tried to exin what he wanted to its little green residents. After several embarrassing failures cknail managed to get the goblins to start filling the pot using the bowls and cups. Soon, after that he had them bringing him wild carrots and othermon herbs.


    He chopped up all the ingredients and threw them all into the pot, and then he hung the pot from the branch above the fire and waited for it to boil. About an hourter the pleasant aroma of stew filled the air above the goblin den.


    After cknail had finished eating there was still a lot of stew left, so he offered it to the goblins. Tentatively at first but then with eager excitement the tribe began taking mugs and cups of the stuff and drinking it down.


    Judging by their excited murmuring, and the brawls that broke out over bowls, they really liked it. Several goblins tried to drink directly from the pot but they stopped after cknail kicked the first few across the clearing.


    As the sky darkened and the stars began toe out cknail found himself sitting around a fire with an entire tribe of goblins. They scampered around energetically and chattered iprehensibly among themselves. It reminded cknail of his life in the sewers, but was also disturbingly different at the same time.


    He was now very unlike how he had used to be back then. He couldnt even picture himself as one of the little green runts that were running around him. It wasnt even that he was a hobgoblin now; life with humans had changed him.


    As he stared at the feral goblins cknail realized he no longer saw the world the way this tribe did. They had such tiny short little viewpoints. They were just focused on simple things like food and shelter. When they saw the road at the edge of their domain what did they think? Did they wonder who had made it or where it led?


    cknail sighed as he realized a simple life like this would never satisfy him anymore. He couldnt believe he had ever wanted to return to the sewers. He would stay here for the night, and in the morning seek out Herad and the rest of his tribe. Humans had much better food anyway.

 Along Twisted Paths 6

    Along Twisted Paths 6


    cknail grunted in annoyance. It was toote to try and go after his master, but he had just woken up from his earlier nap so he wasnt going to be able to fall asleep anytime soon.


    He didnt really want to sit around and watch a bunch of dirty goblins gulp down stew either. Even cknail couldnt believe how messy they were.


    The hobgoblin was used to doing chores when he had spare time, so out of habit he looked around for something to do. His gaze stopped on the pile of wood. It shouldnt be left out in the rain, so he decided to build a shelter for it.


    He got up and began to construct a lean-to against the remains of one of the nearby brick walls. He used some of therger branches the goblins had brought him, and tied them together with twine to form the roof.


    Then cknail stood back and admired his handy work proudly. The goblins behind him murmured in appreciation. The hobgoblin froze. What in all the hells was he doing? Why was he building these little green pests furniture?


    With a disgusted grunt he sat back down by the fire. He slouched over and rested his chin on his palm as he gazed into the mes. For a few minutes he enjoyed staring at the crackling dance of the ze, but he quickly grew bored.


    He had depleted some of his stock of rope earlier so he decided to rece it. He walked out into the bushes by the road and began to gather nt fibers. When he returned the goblins had not only reced all the wood he had used up but actually made the pile substantiallyrger.


    cknail ignored them and began to twist the fibers together to make rope. As he worked several of the goblins copied him. The hobgoblin gave them a disdainful look. As if they would be able to do it properly. It had taken him weeks to learn to do it, and he was a genius.


    A few minutester when cknail next looked up he saw several of the goblins working together to make near perfect rope. He felt his jaw grow ck and fall open in shock. That wasnt possible; there was no way these feral little runts should be able to do it so easily!


    Then, cknail remembered the other hobgoblins axes. They had used simr cord to keep the stone heads attached. Obviously, the goblins had already known how to make twine.


    That made sense. They had probably had practiced for years to manage the feat, while under the threat of strict punishment. Still, maybe they werent as dumb as they looked.


    It was some time before cknail grew tired. Before then he had not only made two more lean-tos and reced all his rope, but also constructed a door for the dens entrance. Hed made it from more branches and tied it down using twine and stakes.


    He was nning on sleeping down there anyway, so having a door directly benefitted him. He obviously hadnt done it for the goblins. That would be stupid


    Several nearby goblins were ying with their new door as they squealed in excitement. cknail shooed them away, flipped the door open, and reentered the den.


    Once down there he scowled. It was dark enough now that even with the door open and goblin night vision he was having some problems seeing. That wouldnt do.


    cknail walked around the room until he found a section of the wall where the stones were crumbling. Using the deceased horned hobgoblins axe as a hammer he opened a small hole there. Then he shoved a nearby goblin into it and forced the gibbering runt to dig its way to the surface, as he motivated it with pokes from his sword. His firece was thuspleted!


    It only took a few seconds to fill the newly dug shaft with wood and light it with a burning branch from the other fire. He removed the goblin first,of course, a burning goblin would undoubtedly make a truly hideous amount of noise. cknail had gotten the idea for the firece from the one in Herads house.


    With the light from the fire and the help of several eager goblins, cknail was able to clean the ce up a bit andy out his nkets. The final touch was to scatter flybane around to ward off the bugs. With that done cknail had created afy ce he actually wouldnt mind sleeping in. In fact, it was actually pretty nice.


    Moving around so much had caused his wounded shoulder to hurt, so cknailid down on his nkets and went to sleep. Just before he slipped unconscious he thought he felt several warm bodies cuddle up next to him. It could have been a dream though.


    As the sun was just peaking over the tree tops the next morning cknail opened the new trap door he had built and stepped outside to greet it. He had everything packed and was ready to continue his journey to Daggerpoint.


    Feeling fully rested he made his way through the bushes and back onto the road. He was going to have to travel quickly if he was to have any chance of finding Herad and the others trail. With that thought the hobgoblin broke into a fast jog.


    Just as he was about to leave the bushy scrund behind him he heard a shrill screech fill the air. cknail looked back to see a flock of harpies circling the goblin den from high up in the air.


    He then heard the unmistakable yelp of a terrified goblin. He hesitated and grunted in annoyance as he watched the harpies circle. Stupid bloody feral good for nothing runts, it served the goblins right for attacking him.


    The hobgoblin took another step forward but then froze. He was totally not responsible for them just because he had killed their chief. That wasnt how it worked!


    cknail let out a long resigned sigh and turned around. He raced back to the clearing in time to see one of the circling harpies dive. Below it a goblin was desperately attempting to scramble through the bushes towards the entrance to the den. It didnt look like it would make it.


    cknail was prepared though. He had already pulled out his sling, and he immediately sent a stone whirring towards the diving harpy.


    His hasty shot missed, but it definitely caught the raptors attention. The sound of the stone shooting past it startled the harpy, and caused it to abandon its dive. Instead, it fluttered in the air for a second before winging its way across the clearing. The goblin it had been aiming for reached the trap door and slipped under it.


    The other harpies that were still circling up above began to screech angrily. cknail eyed them warily as he pushed his way through the scraggly bushes and back towards the den. When he burst into the ruins of the old home one of the flock detached itself and dove towards him.


    cknail whipped another stone at it, and this time it hit. The harpy squawked in pain and dropped from the air. There was a loud thud as it smashed through the bushes and into the ground.


    cknail gave the mangled body of the downed raptor a brief look over. He was fairly confident it was dead. That had been quite the lucky shot, or maybe he was just super skilled?


    That only left five more harpies. cknail hoped they would give up now that they knew how dangerous he was. He was really strong and fast after all! They wouldnt gain anything from attacking him.


    Suddenly, the air above him was filled with the furious screech of vengeful harpies. Moving as one the entire enraged flock descended upon the hobgoblin.


    cknail swore as his eyes widened in rm. Maybe that hadnt been a lucky shot after all


    A surge of panic rushed through cknail as he sprinted for cover. He could hear the harpies descending upon him, so he quickly measured the distance to the dens entrance as he ran. It was obvious he wouldnt make it, so he swerved and threw himself aside at thest moment.


    The first four harpies missed and blew past him in a gust of wind, but thest one caught the edge of his cloak with its hind ws. The furious raptor then began to sh at cknail with the long ws on the end of its wings. Luckily, its efforts were hampered by the hobgoblins clothing.


    cknail rolled and ripped his cloak off, with the harpy still attached to it. He then drew his dagger and stabbed at it. The iling creature slipped away from him so he only managed to graze it. That was when the other harpies swung back around and whipped past him once more.


    He tried to roll out of the way again, but this time one of the raptors managed to sh him across the back as it flew past. The cut stung, and cknail could feel his clothes grow damp as blood seeped from the gash.


    The hobgoblins roll ended as he hit one of the nearby crumbling walls. He ced his back up against it, and then brought his dagger up into a guard. Bleeding and tired, cknail prepared himself to face the winged terrors again.


    When the first harpy rushed at him he grabbed his cloak from off the ground and swung it at the creature. Instinctively, the surprised harpy gripped the long piece of fabric, so cknail whipped the cloak around and sent the raptor hurtling off into the nearby brambles.


    The other three harpies that were still in flight dove at him, so cknail flipped over the wall at his back. This forced the furiously squawking raptors to fly over him harmlessly. cknail smiled mockingly at the stupid feathered beasts. They werent so tough.


    That was when the first harpy that had attacked him pounced on his back. cknail shrieked in pain and tried to throw the creature off, but it had its ws dug in deep. As he futilely tried to reach around and stab the harpy with his knife it suddenly and unexpectedly released him.


    cknail rolled through the dirt as he hissed in pain, but the urge to survive raged through him and drove him to act. Hended on his feet with his dagger up, as he spat loose feathers from his mouth.


    Stupid man faced birds Ill cut you all up! the hobgoblin roared.


    He had expected to immediately have a face full of furious harpy but it didnt happen. It soon became obvious why. A goblin had shoved a spear up the raptors ass.


    A wave of angry shrieking goblins had rushed out of their den, and were in the process of finishing off the two grounded harpies. The green mob filled the clearing.


    Several of them were mercilessly stabbing each of the iling raptors with stone tipped spears. Several more rushed over to cknail and surrounded him protectively. They waved their spears and jeered at the three harpies that were still flying around.


    The now very outnumbered winged beasts apparently didnt want to keep fighting. They twisted in the air and started pping towards the woods. A few secondster, as cknail watched they let out onest angry shriek before disappearing into the trees. cknail let out a deep sigh of relief as the goblins around him began cheering at the top of their lungs.


    Now that the fight was over he grunted in pain as he awkwardly tried to stand up straight. That fight could have gone a lot better


    There was no way he was going to be able to start after Herad and Saeter now. He had to clean and patch all the new wounds he had just gotten. Not to mention he wasnt exactly feeling up to a long run.


    Oh well, it wasnt all bad. At least he had a safe ce to sleep and recuperate. Of course it was full of annoying little runts


    He kind of, but not really, owed them one though. So he could also use the time to teach the goblins a trick or two. Just so they could survive without a hobgoblin around to look after them.


    After getting a nearby goblin to grab him some more food and patching his wounds cknail went straight to work. The most important thing was that the goblins were able to protect themselves. That way he could leave without having to worry about them being attacked as soon as his back was turned.


    If the harpies came back the goblins would need slings. Even a small goblin could do a fair bit of damage with a sling, and they worked well against flying targets. Then again a rock to the face worked against almost everything. He didnt have nearly enough cloth to make slings though


    How else could he do it? Well the goblins had shown they could make twine so maybe he could use that.


    Less than an hourter the hobgoblin wasughing excitedly as heunched a small rock across the clearing using the twine sling he had just made. It had worked; he truly was a genius!


    Immediately, cknail grabbed several nearby goblins and forced them to make twine. He had to smack them a few times to keep them from slipping away, but once they knew what he wanted they went to work. The grey haired goblin that had guided him to the creek was there, and cknail didnt have to hit him at all. That was an impressive amount of intelligence for a goblin.


    When he had the enough twine he then got the goblins to watch him make another sling and use it. The weapon apparently impressed the goblins, or maybe they just liked mimicking the hobgoblin, because soon the air was full of flying rocks. That also meant the ground was soon littered with goblins who had welts and bumps decorating their heads. He should have seen thating


    Even cknail had to dodge the asional rock that shot past his head. He couldnt figure out which goblin, or conspiracy of goblins, it was that kept doing that. His n to discipline them by giving them all a good kicking also failed. There were just too many of them, and the little runts were quick when they wanted to be.


    Stupid ungrateful idiots, he muttered to himself.


    Clearly he had to rethink things. How did Herad control so many bandits? She had lieutenants like Saeter and Red Dog! Could he train a goblin? The grey haired goblin had shown something that mimicked intelligence kind of.


    He was also standing right beside cknail, which ced within easy reach. With his mind made up the hobgoblin began instructing the grey haired goblin on how to use a sling.


    You boss goblin now, the hobgoblin told his wide eyed follower.


    You boss, the goblin repeated.


    cknail sighed. Well,nguage wasnt important anyway. It was time for phase two of his goblin proof n.


    cknail handed Grey Hair a spear, and then had him go around smacking the other goblins with it. If they tried to fight back cknail gave them a solid kick, and that was that. Thus, did Grey Hair rise in the pack hierarchy.


    After repeating the process two more times cknail had trained himself some loyal lieutenants. Now if the stupid tribe of goblins didnt do as the hobgoblin wanted it was his lieutenants problem, because he would take it out on them. That was much less smacking that cknail had to do, and while it started out fun it quickly became just more work.


    His n worked wlessly, because he was a genius. Soon cknail had the goblins under his, almost,plete control. He kept them very busy while he recuperated. With the help of his new lieutenants he managed to force most the goblins to practice slinging stones without anyone getting hurt.


    Next on the list was fortifying the den some more. First, cknail started constructing some more stone axes. He copied the horned hobgoblins simple design. A sharpened stone was wedged into the split top of a length of wood, and then wrapped in twine. He had goblins use the axes to cut down saplings.


    The work went quickly with two dozen goblins all working together, especially since if one of the goblins wasnt working fast enough they got poked by one of the hobgoblins spear wielding lieutenants. cknail knew how to motivate goblins.


    The wood from the saplings was used to reinforce the trap door, and then to add two smaller trap doors to the back tunnel and the firece. With the leftover poles he was even able to make himself a raised tform to sleep on. It was good to be chief.


    Once that was done he taught the goblins how to make snares, and how to use them to catch rabbits and squirrels. This greatly increased the amount of meat the goblins caught, and cknail cooked stew again that night.


    After a fire lit feast under the stars cknail and the tribe withdrew underground. The room below was barely recognizable now. The flickering orange light of the firece illuminated the old cer. Thanks to the dens new doors the fire also warmed the cold stone walls of the chamber.


    Most of the trash had also been removed, and the ce now smelled of Flybane instead of goblin stuff. The less he thought about that the better.


    From his ce on his newly constructed bed cknail yawned and snuggled into his nkets. He felt good enough that tomorrow he would probably be able to hit the road again. For now though he just wanted to enjoy this rare moment offort.


    He was just about to fall asleep when heard a goblin approach. He opened his eye to see a female approach and began to lick his face. She was tall and skinny for a goblin, and had short ck hair. cknail found her attractive, and he smiled in anticipation as blood rushed to his lower regions.


    It had been quite a while since thest time a female goblin had shown interest in him. cknail rolled over and sniffed the female. Lust built up in him as he took in her aroma. He growled in appreciation and his heart beat quickened. Just as he was about to mount her two other female goblins moved over and began to lick him as well.


    cknails smile grew even wider. He was definitely enjoying being a hobgoblin, and was without a doubt d hede back to help this tribe.


    His master and Herad would be fine without him for a few days. How dangerous could this ce Daggerpoint be?

 Along Twisted Paths 7

    Along Twisted Paths 7


    The morning sunlight shone down gently on cknail as he jogged. Hed been very busy yesterday. The hobgoblin had been so busy he hadnt even had time to hunt. Instead hed made the goblins hed been staying with bring him food and water, while he was busying.


    A satisfied grin was stered across his face as he headed down the road, and he was feeling quite cheerful. This was despite the fact that he had no idea where he was going or what he was going to do when he got there. It sure was a nice day out though!


    Herad and her mens trail had long since faded, and it wasnt like he could stop and ask for directions either. His clothes had been torn apart by his recent scuffles and didnt serve as much of a disguise anymore. Unless he was trying to disguise himself as a hobgoblin wearing rags.


    This left him with two options. Turn back towards camp and hang out with Red Dog, or continue on down the road and hope it led him to Herad before winter came. He chose thetter. Red Dog was no fun, and he was pretty sure that if he just followed the sound of screams that Herad would be close by. She was funny like that.


    Whenever cknail heard or saw someone approaching he would slip into the woods and hide among the trees. He didnt want to draw any attention to himself or get dyed any more than he already had been.


    It wasnt like the passing humans had anything he wanted anyway. He hadnt wasted the time he had spent recuperating with the goblin tribe. His backpack was stuffed full of fresh supplies. Before leaving them he had had smoked quite a few strips of meat and collected several handfuls of nuts and berries.


    This meant he wouldnt need to stop to restock for quite awhile, and could thus keep moving the entire day. Hopefully, that would help him make up for some of the time he had lost.


    The forest on both sides of the road was full of birdsong and the asional sound of creatures scurrying through the underbrush. The trees were mostly the triangr needle covered kind instead of the ones with leaves. The ground itself was uneven and rocky. It had only the thinnest amount of soil on it andrge sections of stone were exposed.


    As cknail jogged around the next corner he was presented with a rather serious problem.


    Harpy teeth-ss and damnation! he growled angrily as he took in the sight before him.


    The road forked; it split in two and both parts went inpletely different directions. cknail had no idea which one he was supposed to go down. He tried to find some sign or scent of his tribes passing, but was unsurprised when he discovered nothing.


    As he circled the crossroads for what must have been the tenth time he suddenly detected a noise. It sounded a lot like heavy footsteps, especially those of horses. Quickly, cknail slipped into the nearby bushes before he could be seen.


    As he watched from his hiding ce a group of humans came down the road. There were about three dozen of them and they all wore heavy packs. Their clothing was more than a little faded but it still seemed oddly colorful to cknail. Red and blue of various shades decorated their outfits.


    Among their number there were three men and two women on horseback. cknail could already smell the foul beasts, the horses not the men. Their mounts also seemed to be carrying a lot of baggage. He had seen their like before on missions for Herad. These humans were traders.


    When they got to the fork in the road they started heading South the way cknail had juste from. The hobgoblin eyed them carefully. They seemed to know where they were going. Perhaps he could somehow arrange to get this useful bit of information from them?


    The hobgoblin waited until they had passed him by, and then began to stalk after them. It wasnt hard since they werent exactly moving quickly, or being all that observant. cknail easily slipped through the bushes behind them unseen. Seriously what was up with their colorful clothing?


    None of the human merchants seemed too dangerous, but there were way too many of them for cknail to ovee alone. In broad daylight his torn up clothes wouldnt disguise him so approaching them was also out.


    That left him with only one option. He had to somehow get one of them away from the rest of the herd. That way he could get some answers out of them. How could he do that though? Humans such as these tended to stick together.


    The hobgoblin picked up speed and moved up ahead of the traders. A n was starting to form in his head. When you baited animals you used food. So what did humans value instead of food? The answer was shiny coins, and cknail had some of those.


    Once he was a fair bit ahead of the human party the grinning hobgoblin broke from cover. He raced to the edge of the road and ced his open coin pouch beside a patch of thick bushes. He then hid himself nearby, and smiled eagerly in anticipation as he waited for someone to fall into his clever trap.


    It didnt happen. The stupid bloody humans were obviously blind because not one of them noticed the pouch. Not a single one of them! After they had all passed by, the grumbling hobgoblin emerged from hiding and started running ahead of the humans so he could try again.


    This time cknail ced the pouch somewhere more obvious, and scattered a few coins around it decoratively. Then, after a second of thought he tied the pouch to a bit of string. That way he could draw his prey in even closer.


    With his trap set the hobgoblin once again hid himself nearby and waited. A human had better notice the pouch this time or he was going to get really mad!


    As the travelling merchants were passing him by for the second time a man at the back of the group happened to nce in the right direction. His eyes went wide in surprise as he noticed the pouch, but then he quickly looked away. Nonchntly, the man began to slow his pace and fall to the back of the group.


    cknail smiled excitedly from his hiding spot; that was perfect! Some suitable prey had noticed the bait.


    Once the rest of the merchants had moved past the coin sack the man hurriedly walked off the road and towards the pouch. With a wary nce back over his shoulder to make sure none of the other merchants were looking in his direction the man made his way over to the bushes. He then smiled greedily as he reached down to pick up the unexpected windfall.


    Right before he could pick it up however the pouch seemed to slide deeper into the shrubs. The man frowned and took a step after it. Then he froze as his eyes went wide in realization. Coin pouches didnt usually move themselves.


    It was however much toote for him. Off to one side cknail suddenly lunged from out of the bushes. Before his prey could even blink the hobgoblin was behind him with a dagger pressed firmly against his throat.


    Dont-ss fight or talk-ss, cknail whispered as he pulled the terrified man into the bushes andpletely out of sight of anyone on the road.


    What oh gods, youre not human, the man whispered with obvious terror as he visibly paled.


    Stupid man-ss, thats obvious. I ask will ask-ss questions here, not you, cknail replied viciously as he pushed the now shaking man into the woods.


    Once they had gone a few feet further in cknail stopped and looked the trader directly in the eyes. The man flinched and whimpered. cknail had to fight a sudden urge to smack some sense into his prisoner. Then he had to fight the urge to stab him.


    Which way is Daggerpoint? the hobgoblin asked the man as he pulled the knife tighter.


    What, you can talk? the stunned man replied.


    cknail sighed. Why was this man so stupid? With his free hand cknail grabbed the mans shoulder and squeezed until his sharp nails drew blood. His prisoner whimpered in pain before gasping.


    Still obvious, answer-ss my question! cknail growled.


    Its North! Daggerpoint is North of here, the man whimpered.


    Again, thats obvious. Back the way-ss you came, which road would you take? the hobgoblin asked scornfully.


    Uh, the left! Its the left road, was the traders frantic reply.


    cknail considered this answer for a second. How did he know the man wasnt lying?


    Im going to tie you up, and go-ss capture another human. If he says different from you-ss then you will both die, cknail exined untruthfully. That would be way too much work.


    Its left I swear! the man repeated.


    cknail thought he was probably telling the truth. The whimpering man was obviously a coward and he had no reason to lie anyway.


    Take off your clothes theny face down on the ground, cknailmanded as he took a step back and drew his sword.


    The man just stood there for a second with a startled expression, but when cknail waved his sword at him he immediately began getting undressed.


    When the whimpering man was naked andying on his stomach, cknail picked up his clothes and addressed him.


    Look up and I stab you, cknail warned him.


    Then the hobgoblin immediately began creeping silently away. After he was a fair distance away he broke out into a run. Honestly, he had really wanted to stab the dumb human, but it would have broken Herads rules.


    The man was a merchant, and he had been told to rob but not kill them. That way he could rob them againter. That made perfect sense to cknail. That human merchant had been so stupid he could probably rob him several more times the same way.


    In fact, cknail was already considering several ways to improve his human trap. He could ce the pouch over a covered pit. That would mean a lot of digging though. Oh, he could ce it beside a giant snare like the one Saeter had used on him! No, that would be way too noisy. He obviously needed to knock them unconscious somehow


    With a new set of clothes and another pouch of shiny human bait to add to his own cknail headed towards the left fork in the road. He was relieved that he had managed to get back on his tribes trail without too much of a problem. It had even been more than a little fun. He was certainly a genius among hobgoblins!


    A few hourster after heading down the left road he had to stop again. He had arrived at yet another crossroads. He growled in frustration. How many bloody roads did humans need? He probably should have asked the man about the entire way to Daggerpoint


    cknail spent quite a while circling the area futilely. The time he was wasting frustrated him, and he began to growl and hiss to himself. He couldnt just choose a path and follow it though, he could end up anywhere. He had no choice but to wait for someone toe by, hopefully before tomorrow.


    It grew dark before any other travelers appeared, but much to cknails relief eventually some did. Disguised by the darkness and his new outfit cknail was able to simply approach this group and ask directions.


    The humans turned out to be a pair of hunters returning to their camp. When he asked them directions they were more than happy to help him out, but they warned him Daggerpoint was a vile den of thieves and murderers. For his own good they didnt want to tell him how to get there.


    After a brief conversation he managed to convince them though. He told them he needed to find some of his tribe, or family as humans called it, who had headed there and who needed his protection. Khita was likely dragging Saeter into danger right this moment. What would they do without him to look out for them?


    The huntsmen thus gave him detailed instructions on how to get to Daggerpoint, and wished him luck in finding his family. Their instructions were rather long. Apparently, there were more than a few crossroads between the hobgoblin and the city. The world sure was arge ce.


    After a heartfelt thanks and friendly wave goodbye to the two helpful men cknail wandered off to find somewhere to hole up for the night. The huntsman had offered to let him camp with them, but cknail hadnt thought that would be a good idea. They seemed far more observant than thest pair of humans he had spent the night with, and also more dangerous.


    The hobgoblin eventually found a good hollow tree to sleep in, and drifted off. The next morning he was up and on his way to Daggerpoint. The hobgoblin travelled that way for several days, and actually made fairly good time. The mountains in the distance grewrger andrger as he followed the road North.


    Then atst the hobgoblin arrived outside the city of Daggerpoint, or at least he hoped it was Daggerpoint. He didnt see any actual dagger, with or without a point.


    cknail stood upon a hill that looked down at the valley below.


    The city stretched out through the valley below him. It was an ugly ce and noticeably smaller than most the other cities cknail had seen before. Both the city he had grown up in and Riverdown had been much bigger. Of course he had only seen Riverdown from a distance.


    Other than that, the first thing he noticed about the city was that they used a lot of wood, forests worth of the stuff. The wall that encircled the city was madepletely from lumber and practically every building he could see was as well. The stone most other cities used to make buildings was almost nowhere to be seen.


    Near the center of the settlement there was onerge fancy looking house that stood on thergest hill in the area. It was muchrger than any of the other buildings, and stood entirely alone. At the base of the hill was what looked like some sort of fence, and the only greenery in the entire cityy within it.


    cknail thought therge house would be a good ce to look for Herad. She always took thergest building as her own whenever she moved somewhere.


    All the other homes and other structures seemed to be ced haphazardly. cknail couldnt see a single straight road thatsted more than a few hundred feet. Everything seemed randomly ced and hastily built.


    All thisbined to make cknail think the entire ce could be set ame by one well ced fire, he was even briefly tempted to try it. He should probably find Herad and Saeter first though. The fun stuff would have to wait untilter.


    The hobgoblin scanned the city walls as he looked for a way in. The road he was on ran down the hill and through a gate in the wall. Two men stood outside the gate and briefly looked over everyone who entered. They didnt appear to be checking everyone too carefully or going through their stuff.


    cknail briefly considered just walking through, but decided not to risk it. It wasnt like he would be able to casually walk the streets during the day anyway. He would instead just wait for night and scale the walls. They didnt seem very hobgoblin proof, but then again few things were.


    cknail sat down to rx as he snacked and watched the city from his hillside lookout. He could be patient when the reward was great enough. Several hours passed and the sky above him darkened.


    For awhile light shone out of most the buildings in the city, but soon most of them died until only a few remained and the valley grew dark. The hobgoblin looked on as the city gates were closed and the guards withdrew.


    The night air was crisp and the moon was high in the sky when cknail finally descended the hill and approached the walls. As he strolled along their lengths he ran his fingers over their rough dry exterior, and then he smiled as his ws found purchase in the timbers.


    He continued walking though until he found a spot where the other side of the barrier was both dark and silent. Then, with an eager smile he dug his nails into the wood and began to climb. His lean but muscled body made it hardly any effort at all.


    Soon, the hobgoblin was perched atop the wall. His cloak rippled in the wind as the breeze blew in from over the dark forest behind him. He looked down to see several squat ramshackle buildings separated by a dark alley. Beyond them stretched a seemingly endless maze of wood and stone.


    Despite its rundown appearance even at night the city was alive with noise. Off in the distance he heard a chorusprised of the tter of footsteps and human voices raised in both fear and joy. As he listened a shriek of pain filled the air from only a few streets away.


    It sure sounded like the people inside were having a lot of fun. The hobgoblin couldnt wait to join in.


    cknail smiled as he began to climb down into the alley. He was very d he had made the journey North and not stayed in the camp. This ce seemed like it was going to be a very enjoyable ce to visit. There were so many wonderful treats just waiting to be plucked and trapped here. It made him feel all tingly inside just thinking about it.


    He reached the ground and began walking out towards the street. The alley around him was piled high with refuse, but he didnt mind. Ahead of him shes of warm light could be seen as doors and shutters were opened and closed off in the distance.


    The hobgoblin scanned the nearby buildings. Several of them seemed in bad repair and probably abandoned. Humans sure liked abandoning buildings. Well, it made it easy for him to find somewhere safe to sleep though.


    cknailughed at the very idea of someone finding him in this twisted wooden human hive. It would be like trying to search for a single mimic in an entire forest, and just as dangerous for the searchers.


    Also, unlike out in the forest there were no dangerous beasts here. The wooden wall and the thick human stench behind it kept them out. In this city there were just blind, deaf, and stupid humans. cknail chuckled darkly in amusement.


    Well, there had been no dangerous beasts in the city. Now there was him.

 Interlude: For Love and Duty

    Interlude: For Love and Duty


    The press shifted towards him, and Eweyn readied himself for it. Out of the corner of his eye he saw one of his men fall with a spear lodged in his guts. Another spear stabbed towards Eweyns own face, but he batted it aside with his shield.


    Then, in one fluid movement he then knocked the spears shaft down with his de and stepped forward to counter attack. His sh was stopped by his opponents mail shirt but the impact knocked the man off bnce.


    Eweyns second sh was lower and bit into his opponents unprotected inner thigh. The man crumpled as blood spewed from his artery, and Eweyn kicked his weapon away.


    Then he had to shift his attention to the next member of the Elorian militia that charged him. He managed to take this one down with a single blow to the neck. The Elorian army really needed to train its soldiers better.


    Maybe they believed in quantity over quality though, because there was nock of militia around to take the mans ce. Ewarlyns vision was full of tightly packed soldiers in blue. They pushed inexorably towards him like a crashing wave. Luckily, he had his own mob of violent killers to watch his back.


    Hold the line, and ready for impact. Not one of you takes a single step back. Were going to break these Elorian lilies before us! Eweyn roared to the rank of spearmen around him as he brandished his de.


    It was stupid to draw attention to himself in such a way, but he had a weakness for the dramatic.


    Behind him spears that had fallen as their wielders had tired were suddenly raised and thrust forward all at once to form a bristling wall. Then there was a chorus of heavy thuds and angry shouts as all the spearmen under Eweynsmand stepped forward to meet their enemies charge.


    The mercenary lieutenant let his men engulf him and move past. He had done enough fighting for now. The two sides had be too tightly packed for sword fighting, and he could use a break anyway.


    He sheathed his sword and stepped back to get a better view of the battlefield. It was probably time for him to do some real officer work and stop ying around.


    Hundreds of men screamed and fought over the muddy field thaty before Eweyn. Soldiers wearing the blue of Eloria shed with men d in the yellow and green of Count Eron var Istabn. Off to one side of the battlefield were the in mismatched uniforms of the Silver des, the mercenary band Ewyn held amission in.


    He frowned as he observed the flow of the battle. It didnt look good. The Elorian forces were pushing the Counts forces back. The Counts men were fighting hard, but they were simply outnumbered by the Elorians. That group of archers over on the hill there also seemed to be doing a great deal of damage to the Counts nk.


    Well theres not much I can do about that now. Where are the cavalry though? Ewarlyn muttered to himself as he looked around.


    The Count was supposed to have a sizable division of heavy cavalry. It was one of the reasons the Captain agreed to thismission in the first ce, that and he was supposed to be rich. The Captain was always saying that mercenaries had to prioritize staying alive and getting paid, in that order.


    Ewarlyn didnt disagree. So, where in all the hells was that cavalry? If they didnt show up soon the Counts left nk was going to copse, and then the Elorian infantry there would spill forward towards the Silver des. That would be very bad; there were a lot of the whores sons.


    Suddenly the sound of trumpets filled the air, and Ewarlyns head spun towards the source of the noise. Off in the distance across the torn up fields thaty before him a group of horsemen charging out from behind a hill, and towards the rear of the Elorian forces. One of the riders held a green and yellow banner that streamed through the air behind him.


    A smile appeared on the mercenary officers lips as he watched them barrel towards the now panicking Elorians. There was the cavalry! Almost immediately the frantic sound of trumpets and signal drums filled the air as the entire battlefield shifted in the face of this new development.


    The Elorians began to pull back as they tried to deal with this new threat. Even the militia fighting Ewarlyns own men soon disengaged. A ragged cheer broke out through the ranks of the Silver des as their opponents retreated.


    Let them go. Were not getting paid per head so theres no point pursuing them,ds, the lieutenant ordered his men.


    He watched the battle for a few more minutes, but when the cavalry tore through the Elorians archers and the rest of their army kept retreating it was in the day was won. The Count was no fool; he had sprung his surprise at just the right time. The Elorians had been strung out and too engaged to respond properly.


    After onest nce back Ewarlyn put his second inmand and headed off to find the other Silver de officers. He flipped off his helmet and removed his gauntlets as he walked. There was nothing more he could do here, and he had gotten quite thirsty. It had been a long hot day of fighting and a ss of wine would really hit the spot.


    A few minutester he approached the Silver desrge greymand tent. The sound of arguing voices echoed out from within, and he sighed. The captain must not be present. Ewarlyn swaggered into therge brown tent to see what was going on.


    The inside of the pavilion was unlit but enough sunlight streamed through the entrances and gaps in the fabric walls that it wasnt an issue. Severalrge mats had been thrown over the ground, and a wooden table was set up in the center of the room. It was covered in maps and surrounded by several in wooden chairs.


    Just as Ewarlyn had expected most the other Sliver des lieutenants were present but not the Captain. Two military looking men were seated at the table and another two were standing beside it. A servant also stood off to one side.


    I see you all survived to annoy each other another day. I hope the same can be said for the others. Any of you know where the Captain is? Ewarlyn asked as he walked in.


    The others all turned towards him, and a younger man who was leaning back in his chair and had his feet resting on the table replied.


    You just lost me five copper, Ewarlyn. Id bet the others that youd finally gotten yourself killed. Damn, and it seemed like a sure thing. The fighting was thick and heavy in your area, and for somepletely unfathomable reason you feel the need to fight on the front lines. I mean look at you! You were obviously just doing it. How are you alive? the man joked.


    I am a knight of Azur-Waj, Rahgeid. I am dedicated to the god of war, and do not fear death or battle, Ewarlyn replied with a smile, as he stepped forward and pushed the other mans feet off the table.


    Ugh, not that nonsense again! I thank the gods every day that I wasnt born a third son. If I had been then my parents might have tried to send me off to be a pdin as well, and then Id be just as stupid as you, Rahgeid shot back.


    Before Ewarlyn could reply, or pour himself a ss of wine, the doorway of the tent darkened as the Captain and thest lieutenant entered. Ewarlyn let out a relieved breath hed been unaware of holding in when he saw them. In the back of his mind hed been afraid something had happened to them.


    Captain Hyrus was a thickly built older man with arge mustache and a shaved head. As a veteran of many battlefields and wars he had amanding aura that dominated any room he was in. Everyone in the room went quiet and straightened their posture as he gazed their way.


    Of course, he was smallpared to the woman that stood behind him. Lieutenant Vorscha was a very tall and muscr woman, but Ewarlyn still found her attractive. She gave him a friendly grin as she entered and he replied with a respectful nod.


    Captain Hyrus turned and gave all the lieutenants in front of him a stern grin.


    Id like to congratte you all on not screwing this up, and surviving another day. I was just speaking to the Count and hes more than satisfied with our contributions to the fight. He even praised the skill of our troops. He told me we had grit. Basically, that means we can expect to get paid for this job and maybe we just might get a bonus as well, he told them.


    Heres to getting paid! Rahgeid announced as he raised his cup and then took a drink of wine.


    You can all take the rest of the day off, except you Rahgeid. Youre in charge of clean up, because you look like youre already all rested up, the Captain responded with a scowl.


    Rahgeid however just smiled and threw the Captain a messy salute.


    Will we be moving on soon? one of the other lieutenants asked.


    Probably, the Elorians are unlikely to mount another offensive into this part of Hulgaron. They got pretty solidly thrashed here today. The Count seems like hes too shrewd a man to be willing to pay us good gold just to sit around, so well have to find a new employer, Captain Hyrule exined.


    Thats fine with me. The pay is nice but theres nothing but muddy fields and peasant shacks around here. Hopefully, the next ce we fight has wine, food good, and beautiful women, one of the other lieutenants replied.


    You forgot to mention good looking men, instead of all you sweaty pigs! Vorscha added with augh.


    There were smiles all around at herment, although some of them were strained. Ewarlyn himself found it hard to conceal a grimace. Her casual joke had unexpectedly drawn blood; he knew he wasnt the most handsome of men. His nose was a little toorge and his other features were nd.


    The mercenaries made small talk for a few more minutes before the Captain dismissed them and sent them on their way. Ewarlyn slipped out at the same time as Vorscha.


    I hear you were fighting on the frontlines again, Ewarlyn. Unlike the others Im not surprised you managed to walk away unharmed. You take that pdin stuff of yours seriously, and youre one of the best fighters Ive ever seen. I wish I could have joined you, but the Captain had me serving as his second. I couldnt exactly tell him no, no matter how much I wanted to wet my de, Vorscha told him as they walked out.


    Ewarlyn felt himself flush slightly at thepliment despite an effort on his part to remain stoic looking. In truth, he didnt actually consider himself a great fighter or a particrly dedicated pdin. He simply didnt know how to act other than the way he had been trained.


    Coming from you thatpliment is a great honor. Youre also one of the best fighters Ive evere across, and you didnt have all the advantages my birth and training gave me. Im not exceptional for a knight of Azur-Waj, but youre definitely something special, he replied honestly.


    She gave him a happy smile and they continued happily discussing swordsmanship and fighting techniques for a few minutes before splitting up and heading to different parts of the camp. Ewarlyn gazed after Vorscha as she walked away for a few moments before continuing on his way.


    With a regretful sigh he wandered off to his tent to clean up and catch some rest. Once he was lying down it only took a few minutes for him to slip asleep. He had long ago grown used to the unpredictable schedule of a soldier.


    He woke as someone opened his tents p, and he immediately drew the knife he always slept beside. When he opened his eyes though the sight of one of his men greeted him, so he rxed.


    The Captain wants you at themand post now. Somethings up, his subordinate told Ewarlyn.


    The mercenary lieutenant frowned in confusion. Why would the captain want to see him now? Had the Elorians gotten reinforcements? No, that didnt make sense; they would have heard about it long before it became urgent.


    Im on my way. Thank you private, he told the other man as he quickly got dressed.


    Once he was clothed and armed he strode quickly to themand tent. It would be poor form to keep his superior officer waiting, but if he ran it might rm themon soldiers. Voices greeted him as he approached.


    this doesnt add up. I know the men theyre talking about, and theyre not the type to do something like this! Rahgeid was telling the Captain as Ewarlyn entered.


    Youre just trying to cover your own ass, one of the other lieutenants interjected scornfully.


    Whats going on? Ewarlyn asked with concern.


    The Captain turned to him and answered. His eyes were dark and his was face was wrinkled with worry as he spoke.


    Several of Rahgeids men were arrested about an hour ago. Apparently they were caught trying to steal coin from the Counts pay chest. Im told theyve already confessed, and that several others were with them but got away with a significant amount of coin. The Count is furious, the captain answered.


    Im telling you that story doesnt make sense. He wont even let me see my men! He has them locked away where I cant get at them. Its bloody suspicious, is what it is, Rahgeid added with obvious frustration.


    Several of the other mercenaries began to speak up. Most of them seemed to me Rahgeid and disagree with him. The captain however was silent, and looked like hed just swallowed a spine toad.


    Quiet all of you! Unfortunately, I have to agree with Rahgeid on this. This smells more than a little fishy. It might be some sort of attempt by the Count to lower our pay. Ill have to go speak with him myself and try to sort it out. I want thepany on full alert until I get back, he told them.


    Ill go with you; youll need someone at your back, Vorschamented.


    No, Im going alone. Stay here and help get things organized. I want to know where every single one of our men is when I get back, he replied as he walked out of the tent.


    As soon as he was gone the other lieutenants began to talk and argue among themselves. Ewarlyn didnt approve; they should be out fulfilling their duties. Before he could say anything though, Vorscha spoke up.


    Hey, lets get moving! The Captain gave us orders, she announced loudly enough to overwhelm everyone else who was talking.


    Indeed, we have a job to do. So lets do it, Ewarlyn added in support of Vorscha.


    No one liked being talked down to but they knew they were in the wrong, so soon everyone was out of the tent and moving through the camp. Once again Ewarlyn found himself walking alongside Vorscha.


    I hope the Captain can sort this mess out, hemented.


    I just hope hees back unharmed. I met the Count and hes a typical noble snake! It wouldnt surprise me at all if he stabbed us in the back, Vorscha replied with obvious anger.


    Ewarlyn raised an eyebrow. As the third son of a knight, and andless knight himself, he was also a noble. Vorscha must have seen the look on his face because she hesitated.


    Youre obviously an exception. I mean, as a knight you get your hands dirty so youre hardly a noble at all really, she told him cheerfully as she gave him a friendly p across the back.


    He had fight to keep his bnce as the friendly blow almost sent him sprawling forward. He turned around and gave her aplicated expression.


    Thanks, I think, he replied with more than a little sarcasm, and then he rubbed his sore back.


    Just then one of the younger mercenaries in his squad ran up. Thed looked exhausted and more than a little scared. Instantly, Ewarlyns hand went to the hilt of his de for reassurance as he felt a spike of worry. This didnt look good.


    Lieutenant, theyve arrested him! Theyve arrested the Captain! thed babbled.


    Shit, Vorscha swore.


    Quickly, Ewarlyn reached out and took the panicking private by the shoulder. He couldnt have thed spreading rumors throughout the camp and starting a wildfire of panic.


    Calm down, private. Now tell me what happened, quietly! hemanded thed.


    I was walking through the main camp when I saw the Captain walk up to that Counts big ole tent. When he approached the Counts guards drew their des and surrounded him. They said he was under arrest for nning the theft of some gold or something. Sir, the Captain then tried to draw his de but one of them guards smacked him down from behind and knocked him out good. Then the bastards dragged him away, sir! the young private exined excitedly.


    Double shit, Vorscha hissed angrily.


    Private, youreing with us. We need to inform the rest of the officers, Ewarlyn said as he considered the fact that there might be a battle today after all.


    After sending out messengers and quite a bit of running around Ewarlyn found himself addressing the other lieutenants. When he ryed what had happened to them most of them looked shocked and angry.


    Theres no way the Captain had anything to do with any theft, if there even was such a thing. That damned Count must be trying to get out of paying us! one of the officers said.


    He probably wants to conscript our men as well. Why pay mercenaries when you can just force them to work for free? someone else added.


    Fucking hells. What do we do, Ewarlyn? Youre the most senior lieutenant since Kevhar retired, Rahgeid cursed.


    Ewarlyn felt a sh of panic as he realized the other man was right. He was in charge now, at least as long as the other lieutenants epted it. He quickly gave them a quick nce to try and determine where they stood.


    Most of them seemed too scared or shocked to question his authority. He doubted anyone would challenge him for the position. It wasnt like he really wanted it though.


    As he gazed around the room he fell deep into thought. What were their options, and what would the repercussion of each action be? The way he figured, it basically came down to surrendering or trying to fight their way out. He didnt like either option much.


    If we surrender I question our value to the Count. Hell have little use for officers of questionable loyalty, Ewarlyn told the others.


    Right, if I were him Id have us arrested and disposed of as well, a nervous Rahgeid added.


    If we fight though, our chances arent great. Our best bet would be to immediately try and cut ourselves a path North West towards Eloria. That way the count would hesitate to follow us, but on the other hand we might run into the Elorian army, Ewarlyn continued.


    We dont really have another choice though, do we? another officer asked.


    No, we dont. Fuck surrendering, lets bloody these backstabbing bastards, Vorscha growled.


    With their course decided Ewarlyn immediately began mobilizing thepany, and nning their strategy. He was interrupted though when a runner arrived.


    Its the Count! Hes marshaled his forces and ising to arrest us all! the messenger told him.


    Damn him to all the hells! Ewarlyn swore as he leaned over the map table.


    It was too soon! They werent going to be able to make it to safety this way. The bastard must have been preparing to march even before he arrested the Captain. Hed had this entire ploy nned out since the beginning. Damn him!


    One of us is going to have to stay behind and lead a holding action to buy the others time, Ewarlyn. I volunteer, she told him.


    Ewarlyns throat went dry and he felt himself sway as a wave of panic ran through him. That would be suicide! He couldnt let her do that.


    No, Im inmand and I chose this course. Ill lead the rear guard. Its my responsibility, he announced as sternly as he could as he stared Vorscha down.


    The muscr woman looked startled but quickly opened her mouth to argue with him. He wasnt going to let that happen though.


    Shut up! Get your men moving, Vorscha. Ive given you an order, now move, he hissed at her with as much false anger as he could manage.


    She flushed red with fury at his words and still looked like she wanted to argue, so Ewarlyn pointed to the door and then turned away dismissively. He heard a furious hiss of anger followed by heavy footsteps as she left. When she was gone he let out a relieved sigh. She would be safe now, as long as he did his part anyway.


    Quickly, Ewarlyn got to work and prepared to defend the camp. Orders had to be given and soldiers found. He couldnt fight the Counts forces by himself.


    When the first men wearing the yellow and green of the Counts forces began to stream over the nearby hill he was waiting for them at the edge of the Silver des camp. Behind him stood a toon of volunteers formed up into a shield wall.


    It would have been more impressive if his men hadnt been so outnumbered. He supposed it didnt really matter though. All they had to do was dy them, and they were dead anyway.


    Ewarlyn watched the enemy form up across the field. He didnt see any cavalry, which could be good or very very bad. He hoped the Count hadnt thought them necessary to subdue a merepany of mercenaries.


    To the lieutenants surprise the enemy troops began to march forward. He had half been expecting the Count to try and parley. He looked back to the grim faces of his own soldiers. To his own surprise he found he didnt really feel like making a speech. What could he possibly say? Still he felt he had to say something


    I dont know about you men but Im going to try and kill as many of these bastards as possible. If any of youds manage to kill more than me then Ill be buying you a drink in the next world, Ewarlyn shouted.


    There were a few half hearted cheers and chuckles as Ewarlyn stepped back. He raised his shield and took his ce in the wall. An eternity and several secondster the first wave of green and yellow washed over them.


    Familiar screams of defiance, rage, and fear sounded out from all around him. The sound of heavy impacts and wood splintering filled the air as the Counts forces threw themselves against their shields, but they held their ground and the enemies momentum broke.


    Next came the swords. Ewarlyn stabbed forward as men all around began to do the same. des shed through the air and tore through the ranks of the enemy.


    Ewarlyn began to lose track time of time as he hacked and shed. Spears nicked him and he began to bleed heavily. Oddly enough he felt no pain though as he pushed himself to keep fighting. His men fell around him until only yellow and green remained.


    The world became a blur as he struggled to kill as much as possible before being killed. Feeling leaked from him as he drowned in red. He had no idea how long he had been fighting. Suddenly he felt himself sag and copse into the mud. He struggled to rise, but couldnt for some reason beyond his understanding.


    As he started to fade away hisst thought was of Vorschas smiling face. He wished he had told her how he had truly felt, even if she would have justughed at him. Then he smiled; at least she was safe now

 Den of Beasts 1

    Den of Beasts 1


    The city smelled of humans. That was no surprise to cknail, it was a scent he knew well, but its intensity was still almost overwhelming. The dark alleys and city streets reeked not only of their sweat and urine but also of their blood and shit.


    cknail grimaced in disgust as he slipped through the shadows along the edge of the street and past the other pedestrians. He stayed away from any light that shone out from nearby buildings. Even goblins knew better than to shit where they lived. Were the humans justzy or were they too afraid to go outside?


    The ck gloom of nighty thick over the city as cknail searched for some sign or scent of his tribe amongst the torrent of other odors that filled the streets. Try as he might though he couldnt detect anything. Mingled among the foul and the vile there were however some other more pleasant aromas.


    They were smells he couldnt quite ce but were familiar none the less. Some of the scents were somewhat like stew but even more... varied. Other smells reminded him strongly of bread or some of the treats Varhs and Geralhd had asionally brought him. These were so much more full and fresh in their aroma though. It brought back bittersweet memories of his life before he had been taken from the sewers.


    The sound of nearby whispering tickled his ears and cknail looked over to see the shadows shift at the entrance to the alley he was about to walk by. He frowned at what he saw within.


    Suddenly, figures dressed in rags burst from the alley and towards him. They ranged in size but some were far smaller than cknail. Before they could get too close though, he kicked one of them away, and growled at the rest.


    The human children gasped and fled in every direction away from him. Therger female he had knocked over quickly got to her feet and scrambled away.


    cknail smiled smugly. The pests had looked like they were just running past, but the hobgoblin hadnt been fooled. He knew theyd been targeting him, most likely for theft. Goblins yed simr tricks on each other all the time. A good kicking was always the right answer.


    The hobgoblin moved on. His recent actions had caused some attention to be focused on him, but not too much. No one had died and he hadnt made too much noise. The humans of this city seemed to value their privacy, which suited cknail just fine. He was even far from the only person out and about in a hood and cloak.


    asionally, arger group of armed humans would pass by. Anyone who got too close to them was hassled and shoved around. cknail had examined a few of these human packs from a safe distance. They wore no uniforms or other marks of identification he could see.


    He had even seen two of the groups meet and exchange insults and threats. They hadnt actually fought though, so while they werent friendly they werent enemies either. cknail suspected these were warriors from different tribes attempting to gain status through disys of might and bravery.


    It was easy for him to avoid them. They were noisy and he could hear theming from a block away. If he had wanted to cknail could easily have never even entered their sight. He was sneaky like that.


    The hobgoblin wandered the sprawling streets of the city for awhile without finding anything of too much interest. He did however pick up two tails. cknail didnt look back but he had definitely been hearing the same steady sound of footsteps for thest few minutes. That was interesting; he wondered who they were.


    cknail suddenly swerved and walked into a dark alley to his left. There were a lot of dark alleys to choose from in this ce. He then crouched behind a pile of junk and waited. Just as he had nned two men soon stepped into the alley. They walked quickly towards his hiding spot as they scanned the shadows for signs of him.


    cknail frowned in disappointment. He didnt know them and they didnt smell of anyone he knew. They were probably just a pair of random stupid humans. With a sigh, the hobgoblin rose from his hiding spot and confronted the men who had been following him.


    There he is! the smaller one barked as he spotted cknail.


    Hispanion whipped around and pointed a long dagger at cknails face. The hobgoblin just tilted his head to the side lightly and gave him a quizzical look.


    Give up your coins or well he started to say, before cknail tuned him out and sighed again.


    These men were just boring thieving humans and no one important. They didnt even have swords or look tough at all. Oh well, it was to be expected. Thieves were the lowest of the low after all. The hobgoblin raised the sling he was holding at his side andunched a rock at the talking idiots face.


    There was a loud crack as the stone smashed into the mans forehead and tore a bloody gash across it. The injured mugger staggered and began to copse. Before he hit the ground cknail was already moving. The hobgoblin shot forward as he drew his sword, and shed at the second man.


    Wha? the man said as he fumbled for his own dagger.


    cknails de cut deep into his shoulder before his target could manage to draw his weapon. The man screamed shrilly in pain as his arm went ck and the dagger fell from his limp fingers. The disabled man tried to pull away from the hobgoblin, but cknail took a step after him and silenced his annoying blubbering with a second heavy chop to his neck.


    cknail then pulled off his right glove and leisurely reached down. With a satisfied smile he tore the unconscious first muggers throat out with his bare ws. The mans flesh felt nice and squishy between his fingers as he squeezed. It was too bad humans didnt taste that good.


    The grinning hobgoblin then took a few seconds to listen for the signs of anyone approaching. It was soon however apparent that no one was headed over to check on the source of the brief scream, so cknail began rifling through his attackers clothes for things to take as trophies.


    He found a few shiny coins and pocketed their daggers as well, before leisurely continuing on his way down the alley. He could tell no one wasing his way so there was no reason to hurry.


    A few minutester cknail stepped back out onto one of the main streets. At this time of day there were only a few other people around, and none of them were looking his way. As he started walking deeper into the city his stomach gave a rumble; killing things usually made him hungry.


    He still had some smoked meat and nuts left in his pack, but surrounded as he was by such intriguing smells there was no way he was going to eat them. There were much better things around for him to sink his teeth into.


    cknial followed his nose in the direction the most delicious aroma wasing from. Soon he found himself moving closer towards one of the more crowded and well lit areas of the city. Cautiously, he looked out from a shadowy alley to see what was going on.


    The street was wider here and stretched quite a distance in both directions. It was well lit by bright torches, and the open doorways of buildings that lined the street. What had to be hundreds of humans were walking around as they shouted, yelled, and did other annoying things that were too loud.


    Most of them wore rough cheap clothing and bore visible weapons, but not all of them. cknail also saw quite a few human females dressed in next to nothing, and some simrly garbed men as well. He thought they looked more than a little cold


    Scattered around the street there were several other humans in much nicer and more colorful clothing walking around too. Usually they were surrounded by more than a few tough looking escorts. They seemed to be higher status humans with their own warrior underlings.


    The hobgoblin still didnt see anyone he knew, so he looked past all the rather fatty and oily humans to see where all the wonderful smells wereing from. The most potent of the aromas seemed to be leaking from severalrge well lit buildings with open doors.


    The problem was that lots of people wereing and going from them. Light and crowds of humans in close proximity were something the hobgoblin nned on avoiding however.


    Some of the smells wereing from booths or smaller buildings with far less people in them. Those looked far more promising. Hesitantly, cknail stepped out of the shadows and onto the dimly lit street. He forced himself to casually walk past all the loud men and woman around him.


    As he moved a few of the tough looking men gave him res, but they ignored him when he moved out of their way. Some of the skimpily dressed men and women looked him over curiously, but after he failed to meet their gazes they lost interest as well. No one appeared to notice anything off about him so cknail rxed, and even began to enjoy himself.


    Ha, he was so tricky! All these stupid humans didnt know he was right there in front of them. This was too easy. All it took was a cloak and the humans couldnt see him, and they sure couldnt smell him either! As he walked past a pair of chatting humans he sniggered in amusement.


    One of the women threw him a rude re but kept walking. This only caused cknail to snigger harder. He was so amazing! Now he just had to find some food, and then locate his tribe.


    The hobgoblin scanned the nearby wooden booths. They were covered in delicious looking treats, but at least one human was watching over each of them. cknail grinned smugly; that didnt seem like it would be a problem.


    The hobgoblin did a quick walk down the street and back to pick a first target. Eventually, he settled on a booth being operated by a fat man that appeared to be selling some sort of meat pastry. Their spicy and meaty aroma made his mouth water.


    cknail watched the man carefully for a few minutes from the across the street. When he had the mans mannerisms down he made his move, and began his walk by of the booth.


    The fat man watched him approach from the corner of his eye, but seemed unconcerned. cknail was just another random person on the street. As he reached the booth the fat man looked up and away from the hobgoblin, towards a scantily d woman who was walking by.


    Instantly, cknails hand shot out and grabbed several pastries. Quick as a striking snake the hand then withdrew out of sight and back beneath his cloak. The hobgoblin picked up his pace ever so slightly and swerved to disappear into a nearby alley before the man even noticed anything was missing.


    Once safely out of sight within the alley the hobgoblin stuffed his face full of meat pies. They were so very delicious! Ugh, he couldnt eat them fast enough. They were just too good.


    cknail began coughing and choking as he fought down the urge to threw up from eating too quickly. That didnt stop him from devouring thest sulent pie as he shivered violently in excitement though. The delicious taste was worth it.


    After a few more dashes out to liberate food that wasnt being used cknail had filled his stomach. He then took a brief rest to let his stomach settle before continuing on his quest to find his tribe. It quickly grew even darker out as the hobgoblin searched the quickly emptying streets.


    Eventually, all the lights went out and all the humans disappeared. cknail cursed as he stood alone in the middle of apletely empty cobblestone street. During his search he hadnt managed to find any trace of Herad or the others. Well, at least he was in no danger of starving to death


    With a tired yawn the hobgoblin decided to abandon his hunt for now, and find somewhere to sleep. After thinking it over for a minute he thought the best ce to look was the area where he had first entered the city. Most the buildings there had been empty and abandoned. They were also a little worse for wear but he didnt care. As long as they kept the rain and wind away it was fine.


    cknails cloaked form slipped silently through the now pitch ck streets. The sky overhead was heavy with unseen clouds that blotted out the heavens light. Even the hobgoblin had some difficulty seeing where he was going. His nose however worked fine.


    Soon, cknail was back where he had started earlier that night. He selected one of the nearby houses as his territory for the night. The one he had chosen was a squat wooden structure with a small upper floor. There was a hole in the roof but it was still mostly intact and would serve as a shelter.


    It was also the house that smelled the least of humans and rot. Unfortunately, it also smelled strongly of rats so cknail went around and urinated on the walls to mark the territory as his own. That would keep them away while he slept, and if not then he would simply not have to look very far to find some breakfast.


    The stairs up to the upper room had copsed but cknail had no trouble climbing up using its remains. Once he was on the second floor he found the driest corner and set up his nkets. With that done he looked around and gave a satisfied nod. No humans would be able to sneak up on him while he rested there, and the rats probably couldnt either.


    When cknail woke up the next morning the sun was at its peak in the sky. So, it wasnt really the morning at all anymore. No rats, dogs, cats, or humans had disturbed his sleep.


    The hobgoblin got up and looked out of the nearby window. It only gave him a good view of the nearby empty alley, but he could see the sky as well. It was cloudy overhead and the sun was hidden but it was still far too bright for him to befortable going out.


    Of course his only other option was to stay in the ruined house for hours until it got dark, and see if the rats ever showed up. After thinking it over cknail decided he would be fine exploring the city as long as he stayed away from people.


    The city was a maze of shadowy alleys and narrow streets so it wouldnt be that hard to keep out of sight. Besides, he smelled something delicious and really wanted to taste it.


    cknail slipped his cloak back on and hopped down to the first floor. After looking around to make sure no one was around he crept carefully outside and into the sunlight.


    He then decided the first thing he was going to do was find some breakfast. Hopefully, he would stumble across some clue to Herads location as well.


    So cknail started wandering the alleys and back streets of the city. He saw a few people around but he kept his distance from them, and they stayed away from him as well. The people of Daggerpoint werent known for their friendliness.


    Once he idently walked past a man covered in rags who was crouched under a ledge without seeing or hearing him. When the man unexpectedly spoke cknail jumped up in surprise before dashing away.


    It wasnt his proudest moment, but that was how cknail found himself standing outside the back of arge colorful building. It was only two stories tall but still was one of the tallest buildings around.


    It had a solid stone and mortar foundation and was solid wood above that. Unlike all the other buildings around it seemed in good repair, and looked freshly painted. Most importantly there was a rather interesting aroma wafting down from one of the second floor windows, and there didnt seem to be anyone nearby.


    Feeling intrigued the hobgoblin gave a quick look around before slipping over to the wall, and beginning to scale the outside of the building. His ws found purchase easily enough and it didnt take him long to reach the window ledge. He hung below it for a few seconds and listened, but didnt hear movement in the room on the other side.


    Reassured, he slowly raised his head over the window sill and looked within. His first thought was that the room on the other side was rather fancy looking. In fact it was the fanciest room he had ever seen.


    The walls were dark red and luxurious wooden furniture lined the room. A huge carved wooden canopy bed dominated the center of the chamber. Red curtains hung from the beds canopy and it was piled high with ruffled sheets and pillows.


    cknail however focused on the wooden stand just on the other side of the window that held a silver tter and a jug of water. The delicious aroma he smelled was wafting up from there.


    With an eager growl cknail climbed through the window and crept quietly over to the tray of food. He eyed it critically for a second. There looked to be some kind of cheese, slices of red meat in some sort of sauce, and bits of fruit on it.


    They all looked tasty, but the cheese smelled so good he began to drool. He reached for the food with a happy smile on his face, but the smile slipped as he suddenly heard the sound of sheets shifting.


    Whats going on here? a sleepy but smooth voice asked from behind him.


    cknail jerked in surprise, before quickly pulling his hood down further and raising a hand to hide his face. He then spun around towards the source of the unexpected noise. He was just in time to see the mass of nkets and pillows on the bed be thrown aside to reveal the form of apletely naked human female with long dark hair.


    The sheets slid down her body as she gracefully pushed herself off the bed and stood up, before ring suspiciously at cknail. Much to his surprise she didnt betray a single shred of fear at his presence.


    Luckily, she didnt appear to have a te in her hands.

 Den of Beasts 2

    Den of Beasts 2


    cknail stared nervously at the woman who had appeared behind him. She was definitelypletely naked yet she was looking him over without a single hint of fear.


    The hobgoblin found it more than a little unnerving. She was in a room with a cloaked hobgoblin while totally undressed! Why was he the anxious one?


    Youre definitely not a customer. Youd never get in the front door; your clothes are too rough looking. My first guess would be a burr, but who would be stupid enough to rob this ce? Maybe youre a fan? Although that also seems unlikely, she asked with a thoughtful frown.


    cknail considered drawing his de and killing her, but quickly discarded the idea. She wasnt a physical threat and the worst she could do was make some noise, which was what was most likely to happen if he did attack. Instead, he snatched up the te of food and prepared to make his escape.


    Make no sounds woman. If you make noise before I leave Ill kill you, cknail told the woman as he took a small step back towards the window.


    The woman just smiled at his remark, and then stretched herself out provocatively. As she arched her back her sizeable chest heaved.


    Since you apparently came in here without knowing who I am Ill introduce myself. Im known as Luphera, and surely you wouldnt want to hurt little harmless old me, shemented a she pouted yfully.


    cknail suddenly found himself growing quite ufortable. He was feeling things he wasnt used to feeling about humans. There was just something so very attractive about the sinuous way this human moved. He wanted to lick her


    Wait what?! cknail shook his head to clear his thoughts. What was he thinking? All humans were pink and fatty. He must still have some of the female goblins scent on him, and it was confusing him.


    He took an unconscious sniff of the air in the room, and his nostrils were flooded with a weird flowery scent. As he fought a sudden urge to sneeze a realization hit him. It wasnt the left over scent of a female goblin that was confusing him; it was the sweet floral scent! It smelled somewhat simr to a female in heat.


    Youve intrigued me, you mysterious stranger. I dont get much in the way of excitement these days, and even for a thief youre oddly covered up. Not to mention your voice is just so chilling. It sent a shiver down my spine, the woman told cknail as she hugged herself and shuddered theatrically.


    cknail froze just as he was about to take another step back. Against his will is eyes were drawn to her trembling body. The dark haired woman grinned smugly as she noticed his reaction.


    Are you ugly, is that why you cover yourself? You neednt worry. I can assure you that Ive been with uglier men. Ive seen it all: scars, deformities, and pock marks. You get used to them after awhile, so these things dont turn me off. In fact they can be exciting in their own way. Why dont you put that food down ande over here to amuse me for a while. Its early enough in the morning that we wont be disturbed, she told him suggestively.


    cknail was beginning to get a strange headache. He really wanted to stay and stare at this female for awhile, yet at the same time he also felt an overpowering need to jump out the window and flee as quickly as possible. The woman noticed his hesitation.


    No? How rude, youre making me feel unattractive. There must be something you want though, beyond a te of food. I deal in more than just sex you know. My clients alsoe to me for secrets and gossip as well. Maybe we can y a game? Ill answer one of your questions and then you can answer one of mine, she offered him.


    cknail found himself nodding, and he wasntpletely sure why. He wanted to find Herad and Saeter, but he suspected it would be very dangerous to stay here. Unfortunately, leaving would require him to take his eyes off of the woman.


    She smirked at his gesture of acknowledgement, then twirled around and leisurely strolled back over to the bed. Once there she sat down and leaned back in a rxed manner with her slender legs tucked up beside her. cknail had to bite his tongue to fight the urge to sit down beside her. The scent was really messing with his head.


    Ask your question then, she told him.


    cknail hesitated for a second before answering. He really wasnt sure this was a good idea.


    Is Herad in-ss this city? he eventually asked.


    The woman raised a finger to her lips and looked thoughtful for a second.


    The ck Snake? Thats an odd question for a petty thief to ask. You just get more and more mysterious. I cant figure you out, and its actually rather infuriating. However, since you asked Id be more than happy to answer, Luphera told him. Yes, Herad the ck Snake is in the city. Her arrival a few days ago was big news, and her activitiestely have shaken the city. There will be blood in the streets soon I think.


    A cool surge of relief washed through cknail, and he broke out into a pleased grin. He hadnt been certain he was even in the right city. For all he knew there were dozens of human cities in this area.


    Actually knowing he was so close to his goal removed a weight from his back he hadnt even known hed been carrying. Plus, the blood in the streets thing sounded fun.


    Oh, its my turn to ask a question now! Lets see, what should I ask? Well, since youve been terribly discourteous by not introducing yourself to ady why dont we start with your name? Luphera told him with yful disapproval.


    The first thing that urred to cknail was that he should leave now that he had his answer. The second was that he should lie. Yet, another part of him didnt want to displease the woman. Besides, he still needed to learn exactly where Herad was. It was a big confusing city full of the weird distracting smells.


    My name is cknail, he answered reluctantly.


    Luphera let out a deep sigh and copsed onto her side across the bed. She then gave the cloaked hobgoblin a pouty frown.


    That doesnt help me at all. Could you be any more confounding? Youre making me so curious! I just cant stand it. Go ahead and ask your second question, she told him.


    Where in the city is Herad? he asked her.


    I dont know. I could get the answer for you of course, but Id have to get in contact with some of my people. I dont think you want to wait for that, she replied.


    cknail frowned. If she didnt know where Herad was located then there was no point in sticking around. Now that he knew he was in the right city he wanted to get right down to finding his mistress. The scent in the air was making him drowsy, and really clouding his thinking. He had to leave now, or he didnt know what he would end up doing.


    Im leaving, he grunted as he spun around and walked over to the window.


    He didnt turn back in her direction until he was climbing out. Luphera was giving him a thoughtful look. When she saw him looking she sat up and smiled at him again, in a way that perfectly exposed her bare chest.


    Must you leave? Ill just die of suspense if you leave me hanging like this. I had such great questions all thought out too! I dont get many unapproved guests, so please feel free to climb back through my window anytime, cknail the mysterious. Ill have someone leave a tray of food out, and then well continue our little game, she told him with a wink.


    Maybe, cknail muttered as he tore his gaze away from her and forced himself to climb down the side of the building.


    The fresh air outside quickly cleared the haze from his head. Once down on the ground he hastily slipped away down a nearby alley. Right before he was about to turn the corner and head out of sight though, he nced back to see Luphera standing at her window grinning smugly at him.


    Her expression reminded the hobgoblin of a cat that had found a mouse to y with. He picked up his pace, if only to counteract the part of him that still wanted to go back and see what would happen.


    Once he was safely away from any possible pursuit cknail rxed, and then started wandering the city again. It was still light out, so as before he stayed away from other people. He stuck to the back streets and used his sensitive hearing to make sure no one snuck up on him.


    Just as he was beginning to despair of ever finding Herad anytime soon he came upon a familiar scent. It smelled annoying, or more specifically like Khita. cknail smiled; he had never been happier to smell the greasy scent of a human.


    Eagerly, the hobgoblin began tracing her trail deeper into the city. As he moved through the winding streets it soon became apparent that she wasnt travelling alone; a man was apanying her. cknail couldnt ce him but he smelled sort of familiar, so he was probably one of Herads men.


    He pulled his cloak tighter as he followed the trail past a pair of talking men. When he skulked past them they didnt do more than nce his way. Soon, however the scent led him out of the back streets and out into one of the citys main roads. cknail peered around a shadowy corner as he weighed his options.


    In front of him was a bright street full of people walking and talking amongst themselves. It was lined with stalls, and even a few horse drawn carts were carefully making their way down it. Of course, this being Daggerpoint almost everyone cknail saw was tough looking and armed to the teeth.


    The hobgoblin didnt really want to go out there. Not only would it be much harder to conceal himself while out in the street, but cknail was also pretty sure it would be much harder to follow the scent. There were a lot of people, food, and garbage out there. Not to mention the horses, which were horrid stinking beasts.


    He was also sure to draw unwanted attention to himself if he went around with his nose against the ground. Humans didnt usually do that in his experience.


    With a sigh, cknail stepped out into the street. He didnt really have a choice; it wasnt like he could just stay in the alley all day. If someone saw him he would just have to run away very quickly, or hope that they wouldnt care he was a hobgoblin. Of course, every human he had ever met had cared quite a lot


    He clutched his cloak tightly to himself has he hurried through the street. Khitas scent had been fairly fresh so he scanned the nearby crowds for her as he walked. A man that was walking by suddenly veered into cknail and knocked him aside.


    Out of my way midget! the man said as he walked by.


    The hobgoblin was pushed sideways, and almost jumped out of his skin in surprise. He had to fight down his panic and resist the urge to draw his sword. Murdering the man in the middle of street would probably draw attention, even in Daggerpoint. At least he thought it would


    So, cknail just ignored him and quickly moved on. Besides, the man had somehow managed to drop his coin pouch into cknails hands.


    As he hurried away the hobgoblin scanned the crowds. He didnt see Khita or anyone else he knew anywhere, so he hissed in frustration. Who knew Khita could annoy him without even being around?


    The crowds were beginning to get to him, and make him feel squeezed in at every side. He needed to get away and catch his breath, so he made a break for a nearby alley.


    Right before he slipped away he threw onest look back, and froze. There they were! He saw Khita, and whats his face the bandit. They were across the street looking over some things at a stall.


    As he watched they broke away from the stall and headed towards a nearby shop. As cknail stepped out to follow them he noticed a group of five men look up from a booth down the road. They stared after Khita for a few seconds, and then moved towards where shed gone.


    The hobgoblins eyes narrowed as he watched them with sudden interest. They were definitely moving like hunters after prey; with eager steps and a coiled focus cknail knew well. He was thus willing to bet they werent friendly.


    This was a problem. As annoying as Khita was she was still part of his tribe, thus an attack on her was an insult to him. Plus, if she was killed he wouldnt be able to trail her back to Herad, or kill her himself some day.


    As he observed the men cknail tried toe up with a n. Taking out fiverge fighters was well outside his abilities. He was very dangerous and they seemed like normal stupid humans, but five was still probably too many for him.


    Khita and herpanion spent the next few minutes moving from stall to stall and down the street. She had always imed the city was her natural environment, but ckanil was unsurprised to see she seemedpletely ignorant of the fact that almost half a dozen hostile looking men were trailing her.


    Of course, those men were in turnpletely unaware that they were being stalked in broad daylight through the busy city streets by a hobgoblin.


    Then the girl and her escort headed off the main street and down a back alley. The leader of the thugs barked an order at his minions, and the group split up. The leader took one of his men and rushed ahead, while thest three continued following Khita. cknail grinned with vicious glee as he watched them separate. This made the odds much better.


    The hobgoblin stalked after his new prey. His former nervousness faded away and instinct took over as the excitement of the hunt warmed his skin. The mobs of chattering people around him stopped being possible enemies and instead became part of the camouge that hid him from his quarry.


    Life was now so simple for him. All he had to do was outwit his opponents, and then he would get to taste their sweet blood. Nothing else mattered but the chase and its inevitable end.


    As the three slower moving bandits slipped into the alley cknail was right behind them. He crept along without making a single noise but the quiet beat of his excited heart. He tracked them more by sound than sight, as he slipped from shadow to shadow and hid behind trash and the asional crate.


    The men didnt seem too concerned about being followed though because cknail never even saw them look backwards to spot a tail. They were typical stupid humans who thought they were safe in their city, but they werent. cknail had to stifle a vicious cackle.


    As they moved into a particrly dark alley that was surrounded on all sides by tall rough looking wooden buildings one of the men fell behind the others a bit. cknail sense opportunity, and made his move. He picked up his pace and silently closed the distance. Just as the other two thugs turned a corner cknail descended upon the unsuspecting third mans back.


    cknails target must have heard or felt something because for a split second he slowed and began to turn his head. That was the wrong thing to do.


    Before the man even managed to turn around cknail had a dagger against his throat. An unnoticeable momentter blood poured from the mans neck as cknails de slid across it.


    The thug began to choke and stagger as red seeped down his body, but cknail wasnt looking. He had already bounded after the other two. He had to kill them before they noticed that their herdmate was gone.


    The hobgoblin could hear his preys footsteps so he knew it was safe to turn the corner. He rushed around it and saw the other two thugs. They were peering ahead as they walked, and intent on keeping up with Khita.


    I hope Balstein lets us have some fun with the redhead before we kill her, one of the thugs whispered to the other.


    The only reply he got was a stern disapproving look as the other man shushed him. Apparently, they actually thought they were being stealthy or something. cknail almost sniggered in amusement at the thought. They were about to learn what being sneaky was really like. It would be a very brief lesson.


    The hobgoblin put on a burst of speed and reached out to grab the back of the first mans shirt. He twitched in rm as cknail pulled him backwards, and then rammed a dagger up under his ribs.


    Oh shit, what the hells! the second thug cursed as hispanion staggered forward.


    His eyes were wide with rm and he reached for the dagger at his side. cknail however was already drawing his sword, and quicklyunched a violent sh at the man. His opponent managed to dodge under the blow though, and draw his own weapon.


    cknails second sh was blocked by a hastily raised dagger, so cknail stepped forward and kicked the man in the chest. The thug was sent iling backwards, and hit the ground hard. Sensing his opportunity the hobgoblin stepped forward and stomped on the mans hand.


    The man shrieked and the dagger slipped from his hand. ckanil grinned and hissed savagely as instinct took over. He then dropped his weapon and jumped on the thug.


    As hended he grabbed the stunned man, and to make sure he stayed that way he then head butted him. There was a quiet crack as the hobgbolins forehead smashed into his opponents face. The movement also ced cknail in just the right position to tear his preys throat out with his teeth.


    The man iled weakly beneath cknail as the hobgoblin bit down on the flesh of his neck, and tasted the iron of his blood. A few secondster after his prey stopped struggling cknail sat back up and sighed happily as he licked his lips. Humans didnt taste all that good, too fatty, but there was nothing like catching your own food.


    Unfortunately, he knew he didnt have time to savor his victory. He had to follow Khita and make sure the two thugs who were left didnt kill her. cknail had gotten a good look at the men and he didnt think even odds favored Khita. The bandit leader looked dangerous, and Khita just wasnt.


    cknail took a quick second to loot the bodies of their weapons and baubles. Then, he hurriedly cleaned himself off and restarted his pursuit.


    Just as he caught sight of his tribemates they came to a stop. cknail snuck up closer to get a better look at what was happening. Then, he crouched and hid behind a barrel that was up against one of the nearby dirty alley walls.


    Up ahead of him at the other end of the alley the two other thugs had stepped out from a side street to cut Khita and the other bandit off, and theyd brought reinforcements. Theyd somehow managed to find another man and a tallnky woman to back them up.


    cknail hissed in annoyance. Why did they think they needed so many warriors? As far as these stupid humans knew they had already outnumbered their prey by quite a bit. Werent two more fighters kind of overdoing it?


    The dangerous looking scarred leader of the thugs drew his sword and pointed it at the man by Khitas side. He had an eager gleam in his eyes cknail didnt like. The hobgoblins two tribemates drew their own des in response.


    What do you think youre doing? Were part of Herads band, and under her protection, Khitaspanion told them confidently.


    Oh we know. Thats why were going to kill you. We serve the Wolf, and Werrick wants your bitch of a leader dead. I figure killing you two is a good start. Besides, no one is going to miss a few grunts. People stumble over the corpses of weak fools in Daggerpoint every day, the scarred man replied.


    Then, he lunged forward and shed at Khita with his sword. The young woman attempted to block the blow, but wasnt fast or skilled enough. Her sword was sent flying out of her hands, and she yelped as the de whirled past her face.


    cknail hissed in frustration. Even if he thought that he was a good enough fighter to turn the odds around, and he wasnt, he was still too far away to reach them in time. Surprise attacks were very different than face to face sword fights. He wouldnt be able to get a clear shot with his sling either. There was nothing he could do beyond what he already had.


    As he watched, two of the other thugs moved to attack Khitas nervous lookingpanion. Their leader grinned savagely as he stepped forward to finish the now unarmed young woman off. As his de shed towards her Khitas eyes went wide with fear.

 Den of Beasts 3

    Den of Beasts 3


    Shit! Khita swore as she threw herself out of the way of the blow at thest second.


    She rolled awkwardly over the dirty cobbles of the road, but somehow managed to escape unharmed andnd in a low crouch. As her attacker delivered a follow up sh she scrambled backwards, and the de grazed her shoulder.


    The wound bled profusely but looked shallow, so Khita wasted no time in drawing her daggers and snarling at her attacker. The scarred man apparently wasnt impressed though, because he just gave her an amused smirk.


    Ha, what do you think youre going to do with those tiny little he started to say.


    Before he could finish though Khita whipped one of her daggers at his chest, and the startled man had to dodge to one side. It only took him a second to recover, but that was all Khita needed to draw another dagger and put some more distance between them.


    cknail took advantage of everyones preupation to mber up the side of the wall beside him. Once up on the roof heid low and began to inch his way closer to the fight. If he managed to get closer maybe he could end the fight with a sneak attack.


    Khitaspanion was warding off his own attackers with defensive swordy, but was slowly being pushed back. Neither he nor his opponents seemed too eager to close in on each other.


    Khita threw a nce at herrade as she took a few more steps back, and then looked at the empty alley behind her. Her scarred opponent just continued grinning smugly, and didnt bother chasing her.


    Dont even think about running. I have men positioned to cut you off the second you try it. Youre trapped here, the thugs leader bragged loudly enough that it echoed down the alley.


    He then smiled viciously and looked expectantly at the end of the street. Everyone else followed his gaze as well, including Khita. Several seconds went by and the mans smile slipped from his face.


    That means you shoulde out, you bloody idiots! he shouted with an exasperated tone.


    Several more seconds went by as everyone stared towards the end of the alley. No one moved, and the only thing anyone heard was background sounds from the city. Nothing happened, and no one appeared from around the corner of the street. Eventually the silence was broken by the sound of snickering.


    Are you ever right about anything? Khita asked the scarred man with a roll of her eyes.


    Shut up and run! the man who had been fighting beside her said as he made a break for it.


    Khita took his advice; she quickly threw another dagger at the enemy closest to her and then took off as well. After a brief moment of shock their attackers gathered their wits and ran after them in pursuit.


    Where in all the hells are the others? their leader asked sourly as he ran.


    None of his men had an answer for him. cknail knew but he, obviously, wasnt telling.


    Instead, the hobgoblin just watched the action from his rooftop perch. Unfortunately for Khita, it looked like the tallest of the thugs was a good runner. He was quickly closing the distance between him and his quarry.


    cknail was looking down as they ran below him. He sighed; stupid Khita couldnt even run properly.


    He wasnt about to let her, or whats his face, die though. Her death would waste all the effort he had already put into saving them. So, cknail drew his sling and sighted on the fastest of his tribes enemies. As the weapons crack filled the air he ducked out of sight again.


    A scream of pain filled the air, and was quickly followed by a crashing sound as the man tripped and rolled into a pile ofrge wooden crates. cknail sniggered in amusement from his hiding spot. Humans had such terrible senses


    Bloody fucking hells! the hobgoblin heard his target swear between grunts of pain.


    It sounded like it hurt a lot, which was good. The tall mans noisy crash had distracted and slowed his fellows as well. The scarred man was livid and red with rage as he turned toward his fallen subordinate.


    You bloody idiot! Howd you manage to trip over yourself? Now were going to lose them. Whats wrong with you morons? First, the others apparently get lost somewhere, and now this! their leader growled angrily.


    I didnt fucking trip, boss. Look at my leg! Its a bloody mess. Something hit me, the downed man replied betweenbored breaths.


    As if! Theres no one here but the scarred thug began to reply.


    cknail had stopped listening. Once hed confirmed that his tribemates had gotten safely away hed rolled over the roof and climbed down the other side of the building. He had to follow Khita and the other man back to their base before they got too far ahead of him.


    The hobgoblin dropped down back onto the street and raced around the shabby building at the corner. Once he reached the entrance to the side street he caught their scent again, and he took off after them. He was tired of wandering the city. He wanted to find his master already!


    By dashing frantically, and ignoring the stares of the people around him, he closed the distance enough that he could hear his quarry. Their running footsteps stood out in this quieter part of the settlement, so cknail was able to follow that noise even from a street behind them.


    They led to him to arge sturdy looking building that was located right against the eastern section of the city wall. It formed apactpound with several smaller buildings that surrounded it. As he closed in the hobgoblin smelled the scent of familiar people. The rich earthy tones of the forest still clung to some of them. This was definitely the right ce.


    cknails ears suddenly twitched as the sound of voices he recognized reached them. One of them was just Khita, but the other was definitely Herad. Hed found her! The hobgoblin grinned happily as he realized his long journey was finally over.


    The sound of the conversation wasing from a nearby window, so he bounced joyfully over to it. Then, he looked around to make sure he was unseen and stopped to listen. It was best not to surprise them by entering unannounced.


    lucky we escaped at all. If I wasnt so good with my knives they would have had us, Khita said.


    It sounds like you were more than lucky. Both of you should still be back there in that alley, as corpses. Its more than a little odd that their reinforcement didnt show up like that, Saeters voice replied.


    Thats not important. Ill have their hides for this! I cant believe those bloody fools dare move so openly against me. This could mean war! hissed the infuriated voice of Herad.


    cknail winced and cringed at the anger in her tone. Hed been about to slip into the room and take credit for saving Khita, and that other guy, but now he hesitated.


    He didnt really want to approach Herad right now. He wasnt, technically, supposed to be in Daggerpoint after all. No one had actually forbidden him, but it didnt sound like Herad was in the mood to argue the point. There was no harm in waiting a bit


    They must have something nned. This doesnt sound like a subordinate getting out of hand. They wouldnt risk this if they werent sure of their victory, Saeter said calmly as cknail resumed listening.


    It must be those fuckers Fang and Galive. The rumors that Zelena managed to buy them off must be true. That means Werricks bitch has turned over half therger bands against me. Theyre not afraid of a war because they think theyll win, Herad spected darkly.


    That would be bad. Weve recruited some more men, but not nearly enough to fight so many other bands. We also dont much in the way of allies among the other chiefs. Several of them wouldnt turn against us, but they also wouldnt fight Werrick for us either, the old scout told her.


    Then Ill have to kill Fang and Galive. That will serve as a message to the others, plus it will be very satisfying, Herad said.


    Sounds like a great n, but I dont see how it would ever get done. Both of them are veteran bandit chiefs, so theyll have measures in ce against killers. Word on the street is the first thing Zelena did when she got here was buy the services of all the best assassins, anyway. With all the money shes been throwing around I doubt youll be able to turn any of them, Saetermented.


    I could call them out, and cut them down myself, Herad replied with more than a hint of frustration.


    I doubt theyd go for that. We probably wont see heads or tails of them until they swarm over us like ants, Saeter told her.


    Youre not here to tell me what I cant do, Saeter! Come up with a solution. You must have contacts or something that will help. I brought you here for a reason, not so you could whine! Herad hissed at him.


    Ill see what I cane up with, Saeter answered stiffly.


    cknail heard the sound of footsteps as his master left the room. He was fairly confident that now would be a really bad time to approach Herad. He didnt want wander the city forever though


    So, he needed a way to get into her good side, if such a thing actually existed. It had to be something that would impress her enough that she would wee him, and set aside the issue of whether he was really supposed to be in Daggerpoint or not.


    Only one thing came to mind. He would present her with the severed heads of her enemies. That meant he had to kill the men known as Fang and Galive, or at least one of them anyway. No one could possible stay upset after receiving such a great present! Herad would love it.


    The only problem was that he had no idea where to find those men. If wandering the city for the past day had taught him anything it was that Daggerpoint was a hard ce to find someone.


    Threatening random people until they told him what he wanted to know would probably take too long. It would also attract attention, and thus be more than a little dangerous. How else could he find those men though?


    cknail frowned as a troubling answer urred to him. He had met one person who apparently knew where people could be found. He didnt really want to go back there, but he didnt see any other option. He would have to very careful if he talked to her again.


    The hobgoblin sighed and slipped away from his tribes new home. It took him a while to travel stealthily through the back streets and arrive at his destination.


    As he stood outside therge building he eyed the window hed climbed through earlier warily. Should he just climb through again? Should he just leave...?


    The tiniest hint of the spicy perfume from his first visit tickled his nose, and his heart quickened. A desire to seek the source of the aroma began pulling him towards the building. cknail snorted violently and shook his head in an attempt to clear it.


    With a sign of resignation he then crept back over to the window and carefully climbed up the face of the wall. Once again, he listened carefully for a minute before entering, but once that was done he swung himself through the window andnded on the floor.


    This time as he scanned the room he made absolutely sure he was alone. There was no one hidden among the sheets or anywhere else, so he rxed. The room being empty did present him with another problem though. What was he supposed to do now, just wait for Luphera toe back?


    He stood on the center of the room for less than a minute before he gave up. If she wasnt going toe to him then he would have to go find her. cknail tip toed over to the entrance on the far wall of the room, and ced his ear up against the door.


    It was arge building and he could hear several people moving through it, but none of them seemed to be in the next room. Feeling reassured he reached out and pulled the door open slightly. Or at least he tried, it didnt actually move.


    With an annoyed grimace the hobgoblin pulled on the doorknob slightly harder. The door still didnt budge. He hissed in annoyance and stared and the polished bronze handle. Was it locked?


    He gave it another tug, before frustration overwhelmed him. He stepped back and growled at the offensive metal protrusion. The urge to smash his way through the door in front of him was getting harder and harder to ignore.


    Just then he heard noise from the room on the other side. He froze and his ears perked up as he listened. Someone was approaching. No, make that two people. He definitely heard two of sets of footsteps.


    A panicky twitch went through him as he instinctively looked around for somewhere to hide. He shook the reaction off though, and started nning. Hiding somewhere in the room would be stupid; he needed to talk to Luphera.


    Just as he was thinking of her cknail picked up the sound of her voice from the other side of the door. It sounded like she was the closer of the two people to the door. He grinned as he instantly decided on a course of action. With sudden calm the hobgoblin strolled over to stand behind the door, and waited to see what she did.


    He was momentarily distracted from his scheme as the door knob turned and the door opened. He stared at the bronze handle in surprise. So that was the secret to the humans nefarious goblin proof door


    ..I have a delightful red wine that I think Luphera said, before faltering as the door she was pushing open hit cknails boot and came to an unexpected stop.


    She froze and the hobgoblin could practically smell her hesitation hanging in the air. The womans ck hair cascaded over her face as she slowly peered around the door. Her eyes widened slightly when she saw cknails cloaked form.


    The hobgoblin just smirked beneath his hood and raised a hand to make a shushing gesture. Luphera gave him an annoyed re then turned back around and addressed the person behind her.


    You know what? Why dont you stay here for a second, while I attend to some brief chores. Just make yourselffortable out here, she said before quickly stepping through the door and closing it shut behind her.


    As she moved into the room the hobgoblin noticed that she was wearing clothes this time, although not a lot of them. She wore a flimsy looking white gown that was almost transparent. It didnt seem very practical or warm, so he wasnt sure why she bothered.


    As he watched her the woman gave cknail a scowl, and then walked over to the bed while motioning for him to follow. cknail did as she asked and moved away from the door.


    I cant say I expected you back so soon. Im honestly not sure if Im pleased or annoyed. If youre here for more answers youll have to be quick, and willing to pay my price. Im currently in the middle of another piece of business, and hes rather handsome, She told cknail with a confident smirk, which went right over his head.


    Yes, I want answers to new questions, the hobgoblin replied.


    Oh, so you found Herad did you? she asked.


    I did. Now I must find two men known as Fang and Galive, he told her.


    Her eyes narrowed and her head tilted in response to his words. She looked thoughtful.


    Im sensing a pattern here. What could you possibly want with the locations of three bandit chiefs? Before I answer your question Im afraid Im going to have to ask you to answer mine, she told him.


    It was cknails turn to scowl now, as he considered his options. Once again though, he didnt seem to have much of a choice. She clearly had the advantage when it came to this game of answers. Should he lie though? The problem with that was he didnt know what an effective lie would even be


    Very well, I will-ss answer first. I wish to serve Mistress Herad, and so I seek-ss a gift for her. I will give her the men known as Fang and Galive, cknail replied.


    If she didnt like his answer he could always just jump out the window, or kill her. Maybe it was the flowery scent in the air, but she was looking unusually tasty for a human.


    Luphera didnt overreact to his answer though; she just looked thoughtful. She murmured something to herself, before giving him an appraising look. cknail rxed in response.


    You n on killing two of the local bandit chiefs, by yourself? That wont be easy, she told him.


    Theyre only human, cknail replied with a shrug.


    True enough, I guess. I find it''s amon w in most the people I meet. Anyway, my times running short so Ill answer your question for you. Ive never been a fan of either of those butchers anyway. If you manage to kill them, and not before, feel free to return and well have another lovely chat, she told him dismissively.


    cknail grinned at her choice of words. They were more than a little amusing and he totally agreed. Saeter had told him to always say thanks when someone gave him something, including information, so he did.


    Thank-ss you, he replied as he fell deep into thought.


    He couldnt understand this woman at all. Usually, humans were very simple creatures. They liked coins, and they didnt like being stabbed. Luphera was moreplicated than that though. Herck of fear confused him. cknail also had the distinct impression that she had been pleased by how the conversation had gone, but was trying not to show it.


    After Luphera quickly exined to the hobgoblin how to find both of the mensirs cknail took his leave. He hopped out the window and quickly climbed down the outside face of the building.

 Den of Beasts 4

    Den of Beasts 4


    Once he was back out on the street the hobgoblin broke into a jog, and swiftly headed towards the first of the locations Luphera had told him about. The man named Fang apparently lived in the northern part of the city.


    Hisir was atop a ce where humans bought drinks. He had been told it would be easy to find, but full of guards. If they were anything like the other men that lived in the city then cknail doubted they would be much of a problem.


    The hobgoblin travelled through the back alleys most of the way to Fangs tavern. Only when he got close to his destination did he emerge from the shadows, and walk out onto one of the more crowded main streets. He kept his hood up as he scanned all the nearby buildings. Almost immediately he found what he was looking for.


    The left side of the street was dominated by arge building that towered over the rest. It was a huge sprawling structure with two wings that protruded from either side. The central part even had three floors, and a wooden balcony. Most the buildings in this city werent nearly that tall.


    Quite a few people were moving in and out of the front entrance, and a mor of human voices could be heard from within. Humans apparently liked to yell a lot while they drank their foul poisons, or maybe it was only the louder and stupider humans that drank it?


    cknail was sure he was in the right ce because a wooden sign, with what looked like a long bloody trolls tooth painted on it, hung over the taverns door. Luphera had told him to look for that symbol. This wasnt a building he could just walk into though, because two of thergest humans he had ever seen stood outside the entrance.


    They were obviously guards of some sort, because everyone who entered had to stop and speak to them first. Every once and a while, the pair of giants would turn someone away and force them to leave.


    cknail didnt think he could bluff his way past them. There were also too many people around out front for him to try and sneak in. He even saw several humans at windows who were obviously sentries of some sort, and one man who was loitering across the road was already ring at him suspiciously.


    Undaunted, cknail started walking down the street until he was out of sight of anyone watching. He then briefly scanned the crowd to make sure he wasnt being followed, before slipping back into the maze of shadowy alleys that bordered the main streets.


    He then worked his way around to the rear of his targets base. It wasnt long before he began to notice small patrols of humans wandering around. He could hear their footsteps as they walked back and forth through the alleys. Fang must have sent them out to protect himself, but they were no threat to the hobgoblin. He easily avoided them or hid as they moved past.


    He also quickly spotted several men and women in the windows of nearby buildings. The way they kept looking around at the streets below indentified them as more than casual observers. These sentries were more trouble for cknail than the patrols were. The hobgoblin was sneaky, but he wasnt invisible.


    He marked their positions as he circled thepound and looked for a way in undetected. It took him a while to find one. Whoever had posted the sentries had known what they were doing, but cknail knew he could find a w in any defense if he looked hard enough.


    That was especially true for any defense made by mere humans. cknail grinned to himself as he watched one of the sentries from around a corner. Most humans werent nearly as smart as they thought they were.


    After a few minutes of searching the hobgoblin managed to sneak right under the nose of the sentry. The woman was watching the street from a second floor window, so cknail slipped through the front door of her house and then right out the back. His ears and nose had told him thered only been the one person in the house.


    cknail then crept past the smaller buildings and wings, as he moved towards thergest building. Hed been told Fang lived on the top floor of it.


    cknail moved slowly enough that he could hear anyone before they saw him. He had to be super sneaky now; there were a lot of men wandering around the area. It would be bad if he stumbled into them.


    When he got to the central building the first thing he did was find an empty second floor window, and then he hid himself behind a row of barrels in the alley directly below it. Once he was out of sight he closed his eyes and began to concentrate on listening.


    A multitude of voices echoed through the building, but almost all of them were in therge room on the first floor just past the front entrance. The second floor was much quieter, with only the asional noise as someone spoke or boards creaked under peoples feet as they moved. The third floor was utterly silent as far as cknail could tell. He couldnt have asked for a better set up.


    He waited for several minutes before making his move. He had to be sure that no one was looking his way or near a window, before he started scaling the wall to get inside. He was aiming for a second floor window because climbing all the way to the third floor would leave him exposed to any watchers. None of the surrounding buildings were taller than two stories.


    It was easy enough for him to quickly scramble up the side of the building and pull himself through the window and onto the second floor. Once he was inside the empty hallway on the other side of the window he crouched down and listened again.


    He still didnt hear anyone nearby, so he got up and began to look for the way up to the third floor. He exited the hallway and walked into some sort of wide eating room full of tables, chairs, and other furniture.


    Most the room was dark and smelled strongly of many different types of food. None of the scents were fresh though, and after a brief exploration cknail didnt find anything worth eating. Reluctantly, the hobgoblin stopped looking for a snack and went back work. He would just have to get a bite to eat when he was done.


    As he was crossing the room he heard the creaking of floorboards, so he dashed off to one side and hid himself under a nearby table. Momentster, a smaller man walked briskly through the room and then disappeared through the far door.


    When the man was gone cknail crawled out from under the table, and resumed his search for the way up. He found it several minutester. Off to one side of the building there was a staircase that led upwards. cknail smirked eagerly as he carefully crept up the stairs and towards his target.


    At the top of the stairs there was a door. cknail stopped and stared at it for a moment before tentatively reaching out and grasping the door knob. First, he tried to push it. That didnt work, so next he gave the door a slight pull. When that didnt work either his stomach turned nervously. He only had one more shot at this


    cknail held his breath as he attempted to twist the handle. There was a muted click, and he almost jumped out of his skin in rm, as the door slid open slightly. He froze and listened just in case someone had heard something, before sliding through the doorway.


    He couldnt help chuckling quietly to himself as he moved. Hed sessfully defeated the clever human lock! Had there ever been a smarter hobgoblin than him? He doubted it.


    Expensive furniture lined the small room on the other side. It didnt seem as nice as the pieces in Lupheras chamber though, or as organized. Some of the furniture clearly didnt match, even if it all looked fancy. There certainly was a lot of it though. The walls were even covered in pictures drawn on rectangles of various sizes.


    cknail walked up to one of the pictures and examined one. He had seen simr things before, but never really had an opportunity to look at one closely. This one seemed to be of a mans face. It was really quite realistic. cknail had no idea how humans made things like this. Was it some sort of magic?


    The hobgoblin reached out and gently poked the portrait. He was somewhat relieved when his finger hit the t canvass. For a second there hed almost been afraid there was a real person in there or something. That would have been awkward.


    With his curiosity satisfied cknail moved away and explored the room. There was only one other door in the chamber, and after failing to find anything worth collecting he went over to examine it. He grinned confidently as he turned the doors handle, but nothing happened.


    The handle wouldnt turn. cknail hissed angrily as he clenched his teeth. Why wouldnt it turn? The stupid thing must be broken


    As he went to try and give the handle another twist he noticed a tiny hole in the door above it. He stared at it for a second, before realizing that it reminded him of the locks he had seen on chests. The door required a key! No wonder he couldnt open it.


    Apparently, the stuff on the other side of this door was super important; because it not only required one of the turning puzzle locks but a key as well. cknail thought that was overkill, and more than a little unfair.


    Hed had a key once, but hed given it to Saeter. How was he going to get past this door now? Fangs room undoubtedlyy on the other side of it.


    He was just about to try shoving random stuff into the keyhole when he heard the sound of footsteps on the stairs behind him. cknail stepped away from the door and frantically searched the room for somece to hide.


    Should he hide behind the chair? No, too visible. What about in the chest? No, too ufortable.


    The thud of footsteps grew closer until it reached the top of the stairs. cknail had no more time to waste, so he quickly threw himself behind a long padded sofa. He just really hoped whoever wasing up the stairs didnt look too closely in his direction. The sofas cushions didnt go all the way down, so his feet were visible underneath it.


    The wide eyed hobgoblin peeked out from his hiding spot as the stairway door opened. An older looking human woman in a long in dress and shirt stepped out with a pile of clothes in her hands. As cknail watched she crossed the floor and reached the other door. Then, she pulled a key out from her pocket and there was a click as she unlocked the door.


    She pushed through and disappeared inside, but she left the door open behind her. cknail smirked excitedly as he rose from his hiding spot and crept over to the now open door. He looked through to make sure the woman was out of sight, and then slipped through as well. Problem solved!


    The room on the other side was pretty much the same as thest one. There was a lot of furniture and paintings. He didnt have a lot of time to look around though, as he soon heard the womaning back.


    He hurried into a small dark side room as she passed, and then he heard the door to the stairway shut behind her and the click of it being locked. It seemed like he wouldnt be leaving the same way hede in


    cknail didnt hear or smell anyone nearby so he began to carefully explore the suite. He found a few trinkets and shinnies someone had forgotten, so he picked them up so they wouldnt get lost. There were several more rooms as well, including a bedroom, but they didnt contain anything that was interesting or edible. They were also all empty; Fang wasnt here.


    That was a problem. This was supposed to be hisir, but that didnt mean he was always here. Obviously, he left it sometimes. cknail sighed; he really should have thought of that earlier


    Oh, well there was no other option but to wait for the man toe back. What was he going to do in the mean time though? He should probably find somewhere to hide.


    There werent a lot offortable ces he could hide for a long period of time, so after a brief search cknail chose to conceal himself under the bed. The sheets that fell over the sides of the frame would conceal him, and as a bonus he couldy down on the floor. It was actually quitefy.


    However, after a few minutes cknail began to grow bored. How long was this going to take? He gave a quiet yawn as he shifted around to get morefortable. The entire bed had been ced over a rug so the floor wasnt too hard. cknail closed his eyes as he let out a deep breath and rxed. He probably shouldnt let himself fall asleep


    cknail was awakened by the sound of a door being mmed shut. As he blinked the sleep from his eyes he heard a pair of loud voices.


    Make sure I know the instant Zelenas message arrives. When we move to take Herad out I n on being right out front. That crazy hag has been a pain in my side for too long. How arrogant do you have to be to just move south and im the best territory around as your own exclusive little yground? the first deeper voice said.


    Youd have to have an ogre sized ego to think it would work, boss. Thats for sure, the other man replied.


    Well, the ck Snake is about to be cut down to size. Zelenas bought the cooperation, or at least the approval, of practically every chief in town. Only that pompous fool the Governor objects, and hes just worried about not being able to y us off against each other anymore, the voice that cknail was sure belonged to Fang said.


    The hobgoblin ground his teeth as he listened. How dare they insult the chief of his tribe! So what if Herad was ugly? All humans were; they were pink! What a stupid color for skin to be. Green was so much better. cknail also knew Herad wasnt crazy, she was one of the sanest people hed had ever met. It was the rest of the humans who were weird


    Very true, boss. Theres no way she can stand against you and your allies, the other man answered.


    Shell be outnumbered five to one, and shes the only vessel in her pathetic little band. Including me and that assassin of Zelenas well have at least five. Herad will be dead by the end of the week, and then all that nice territory shes imed will be mine! Fang eximed excitedly.


    As well as whatever treasures shes hoarded away at her base, his subordinate added.


    Under the bed cknail went rigid with surprise. Fang was a Slosher! Thatplicated things


    True, although I dont imagine its any great prize. Thats enough of this useless talk. Go downstairs and send one of the wenches up, make it the new blonde. Im feeling like a good romp, Fang told the other man.


    Yes sir, sure thing, the man said before heading back down the stairs.


    cknails target was now alone on the third floor. The hobgoblin under the bed grinned with eager anticipation as he plotted the mans murder. This was going perfectly, and would be so much fun!


    Since Fang was a Slosher the safest n was probably to just wait until he fell asleep and then to slit his throat. That would involve a lot of waiting though, and cknail had already had a nice long nap. He really didnt want to fight a Slosher though. If he was anywhere near as dangerous as Herad then he would be very unlikely to win.


    So, cknail waited and listened as the man named Fang wandered around the apartment. After a few minutes he walked over to the bed and sat down. His feet dangled and swayed right in front of cknails face.


    Then, a shirt hit the floor as the man started getting undressed. The shirt was soon followed by a pair of pants. As the trousersnded there was a whirring noise and several golden coins rolled out. cknails eyes watched them intently as they rolled. They were so shiny


    H e wanted to grab one, or more than one, but he knew it would be a dumb thing to do. Fang might be looking. As the hobgoblin watched, one of the coins rolled under the bed before falling over. Excitedly, cknail reached out and grabbed it. He smiled happily as he stared at its gleaming golden sides.


    Damn, bloody things, Fang suddenly swore.


    The bed then creaked as the man leaned over and began picking the coins up. cknail held his breath and started fervently hoping the man couldnt count


    The hobgoblin had no such luck. After he was done picking up the other coins, Fang got off the bed and dropped to his knees. He then reached over and lifted the edge of the sheets up to look under the bed.


    The hobgoblin and the man stared at each other for a second. Neither of them said anything. cknails hood wasnt up so Fang got a good look at the hobgoblins green, angr, and very inhuman, face.

 Den of Beasts 5

    Den of Beasts 5


    Gods! What in all the hells the man whispered as his eyes went wide with shock.


    cknail shed the man a toothy smile, and then stabbed him in the face with his knife.


    Fang screamed as the de sliced down his cheek. He clutched his face and tried to pull back away from the bed. cknail didnt let him; he grabbed the mans hair and pulled him down.


    cknail had forgotten Fang was a Slosher though, and very strong. The entire bed flipped as the man pulled the hobgoblin out from under it and into the air. The violent motion wrenched cknails arm, and he hissed in pain as his shoulder made an unpleasant grinding noise. This wasnt going the way hed nned.


    The hobgoblin swung through the air, as Fang roared in pain. cknail tried to right himself using his feet, but just ended up kicking Fang in the face several times. Therge man snarled viciously and tried to reach over and grab cknails neck with one hand. The hobgoblin let him, and then he stabbed the man again. Stabbing things seemed to solve most of his problems.


    His knife gouged into Fangs shoulder and nicked his neck. The bandit chief roared in pain again and threw cknail across the room. Blood from Fangs wounds flew through the air, as the hobgoblin smashed into a wall and then slid to the floor. Ow, why did humans have to be so big and strong?


    Gods! What the fuck are you, a demon? Have the hells opened up for me? Fang cursed as he staggered and tried to stand straight.


    Blood poured from the cut on his neck. He was clutching it tightly with his hands, but that barely slowed the crimson flow. That was bad for him, but good for cknail.


    cknail didnt feel much better though. Every bone in his body hurt and the impact with the wall had knocked the air from him, explosively. The first rule of a challenge was not to show weakness though.


    Yes, Im a demon! Tonight-ss you die, cknail hissed dramatically in his scariest voice, which was actually just his normal voice.


    The hobgoblin pulled himself up off the ground. He was unsteady on his feet and wobbled a little, but he managed to start walking over to his target.


    Fuck you! the man cursed in reply.


    Fang was injured and in his underwear, but he was still a Slosher. He looked around the room for something to use as a weapon. There was a vase on top of a nearby stand, so the man grabbed it and then threw it at his attacker.


    cknail slid out of the way of the porcin projectile and continued to close the distance. Fang then picked up the wooden stand itself and hurled that. This time one of its legs nicked cknails shoulder. He stumbled slightly and winced. There was no real damage though, beyond another bruise.


    Fang took this time though to reach down with his one free hand and grab his pants from off the floor. cknail grinned with savage amusement. What was he nning to do with those?


    His smile slipped though when the man managed to fumble through the trousers and pull out a small dagger. cknail would have been more concerned, but Fangs eyes were starting to look unfocused and hed grown very pale.


    Still, it was better not to take any risks. cknail tucked his own knife away and drew his sword instead.


    Fang grimaced in anger and frustration as the hobgoblin approached. cknail raised his sword and then shed down at the man. Fang raised an arm defensively and tried to block with his dagger, but cknail was too fast for him.


    The sword cut into the mans arm, and then ckanil kicked him in the knee. There was a crunching noise as Fang copsed onto his side. He shrieked in pain, and blood sprayed from his arm. The hobgoblin didnt give him time to recover. He mercilessly began hacking and shing at the fallen man until Fangs struggling stopped, and he went limp.


    cknail only stopped when the gory mess at his feet was clearly a corpse. Then, he lined the de up just right and cut the mans head off. Then, he tried again because it didnt quitee off right the first time.


    When the head waspletely severed cknail gave it a brief shake to get some of the blood out, and then he wrapped it in a sheet from the bed. He was interrupted from his work by the rather loud sound of the door at the top of the stairs exploding inwards. Almost immediately, he then heard the sound of hurried footsteps.


    Horse reek, cknail swore, as he stuffed his grisly trophy into his backpack.


    The hobgoblin pulled his hood up and sheathed his sword. He knew he only had seconds before he would be mobbed by a horde of veryrge and very angry humans, so he dashed towards the nearest window. He had no idea what was outside of it, but it had to be better for his health than staying there would be.


    It had gotten dark out while cknail had been napping. The hobgoblin grabbed the window frame and used it to swing around. Luckily for him, the exterior wall had a ridge he could grab. He used that to pull himself out of sight of anyone inside, and then he began scrambling down the side of the building.


    Below him was one of the grimy alleys thaty beside the tavern. There didnt seem to be anyone there at the moment, but cknail could hear swearing and yelling from the room he had just left. He was willing to bet people would soon pour out of Fangsir and flood the streets.


    The climb down wasnt easy or fast, even for the hobgoblin. He couldnt go straight down because parts of the wall were too smooth to grip. Instead, he had to carefully feel his way around and scramble sideways to find footholds as he descended feet first. He disliked how long this was taking; he didnt have a lot to spare.


    The first story of the building was smaller than the others and recessed, so cknail had to jump down. His injured shoulder red with pain as hended on the ground. The hobgoblin just grunted and began running away as fast as he could.


    He could hear humans all around him, several of which seemed dangerously close by, so he dashed into a nearby alley that sounded empty.


    Behind him all the windows of Fangsir started glowing brightly one by one as his men woke up and tried to respond to the turmoil around them. Angry shouts and cries of rm began to fill the air.


    As cknail desperately tried to flee through the now dark city streets he hissed in pain. His pace slowed as his ankle began to hurt. He tried to fight past the pain, but his foot also felt weaker and unsteady when he put weight on it.


    He lurched sideways and limped into a small alley, as he heard a group of humans approach from ahead. The tight pathway was free of debris or clutter. This made traversing it easier but it also meant there was nothing to hide behind, and that mattered. The sound of footsteps echoed behind cknail as a mob of humans hurried his way.


    There was no way the hobgoblin could outrun them, so he looked around for anything that would help him escape or hide. There was nothing on the ground, so he looked higher up. He hissed in annoyance as he noticed therge overhangs on the low roofs that bordered the alley. There was no way he could quickly get over them and onto the rooftops.


    The sound of pursuit grew closer, and as cknail began to panic an idea suddenly urred to him. He sprinted towards the nearest wall and then ran up it. His ankle red with pain but he disregarded it; he wanted to live.


    Using his momentum he jumped up off the wall and grabbed the overhanging roof. Grunting with effort, cknail then pulled himself up under the roof and against the wall. There were wooden supports along the wall he could hold on to.


    He hung there as a dozen thugs suddenly burst into the alley. They had torches that burned the shadows that encircled them away. Together the mob of humans hurried down the alley. Since the path was straight and empty they didnt seem to be looking around too much.


    The light from the torches didnt reach into the dark recesses of the overhanging roof. cknail was tucked away in those shadows as he watched the men pass him by. If anyone looked his way they would have seen his eyes reflecting the light. No one looked though.


    He let out a deep breath of relief as they turned the corner and disappeared out of sight. That had been close; if humans werent so blind and stupid he might have been caught there. There was no way a hobgoblin, or any animal really, would have missed the smell of blood in the air.


    He didnt hear anyone else close by so cknail let himself drop back down to the ground. He then hurried back onto the street and away. Several times he was almost caught by groups of searching thugs but he always managed to slip away at thest minute.


    There didnt seem to be any pattern or cooperation among the human search parties. They all appeared be running around randomly.


    Eventually cknail got far enough away that he left the search parties behind, and the city grew quiet. Once free of pursuit he slowed down, and began hobbling through the dark city towards Herads residence. He would be safe when he got there, and could lie down for a while


    He definitely wasnt going after the other Bandit chief anytime soon. This hadnt been an experience he wanted to repeat. If only that ugly human bastard hadnt dropped those coins! It seemed unfair that cknails perfect n could be ruined by something so random.


    Herad would just have to be happy knowing Fang was dead, and having his bloody head as proof. Two heads probably wouldnt fit in his bag anyway.


    The hobgoblin trudged through the dark and empty city streets for several minutes before he got to his destination. As he approached the front of Heradsir cknail saw two men standing guard outside.


    Light shone out from a window beside them and illuminated theirs yard. The bored looking lookout nced his way as the cloaked hobgoblin drew nearer. cknail caught a whiff of their scent and was very relieved that one of them smelled familiar. He was far too exhausted to try and sneak in right now.


    Halt, who goes there? the first man asked as he ced a hand on the sword at his side.


    Me, cknail replied unhelpfully. He was too tired to say more, not to mention he was feeling rather cranky.


    Who? The man asked suspiciously.


    Im cknail, was his only response.


    What the hells? The hobgoblin? Ill believe that when the gods reveal it. Ha, theres no way a hobgoblin could be wandering around the city! the first man replied.


    I can if I want to, the hobgoblin replied, as he pulled his hood down and red at the man.


    His eyes shone with barely suppressed anger and frustration. Both men took a surprised step away from him. The second man went pale as the moon, and then threw his partner a questioning look.


    After cknail was finished talking to Herad he was going to smack these idiots. He began walking past the guards and up to the door of the building.


    Hey, you cant just go in there! the man told him.


    I can if I want to. Im here to see mistress Herad. Get in my way and Ill gut you like a rabbit, the hobgoblin hissed as he marched past the guards.


    They didnt try to stop him; they just stood aside and watched without moving. The dried stter of blood all across his face might have had something to do it. The unfamiliar smelling one turned to the other.


    Thats not a real hobgoblin is it? I mean, I heard some of the other guys talking, but I thought they were joking! he said nervously.


    His partner frowned and gave him a condescending look. He clearly didnt think much of the question.


    He was green, you idiot. Of course hes a hobgoblin; no human has ever had chompers like those, thats for damn sure! the other man replied.


    cknail flipped his hood back up and made his way inside. The room there was in and several people were sitting at a table while ying cards. Their reactions to cknais sudden presence varied, but every one of them looked surprised.


    None of them were Saeter or Herad, so the hobgoblin kept moving. Behind him several men pushed their chairs back and got to their feet, as an anxious sounding conversation broke out.


    cknail could hear Herads voice from deeper within the building. He followed it through the bare corridors. As he walked everyone he saw moved out of his way without a word.


    Momentster he stood outside a closed door. One of Herads personal guards stood beside it. The sound of conversation between the bandit chief and several of her minions could clearly be heard from within by the hobgoblin.


    Its suicide to try and fight them all. My men and I joined your band because it sounded like you had a sweet set up down south. We didnt agree to fight all of Daggerpoint for you! a deep voiced man said.


    You swore to follow me, so you dont have a choice, Herad replied with frosty calm.


    Herad still sounded more than a little angry, but cknail was too tired and sore to care. He was also willing to bet his present would cheer her up.


    Open the door, the hobgoblin hissed to the guard.


    The man flinched as cknails voice issued forth from under his hood. He looked startled for a second, but then rxed as a look ofprehension came over his face.


    Saeters hobgoblin? What the hells are you doing here? he asked.


    cknail sighed in frustration. Why were most humans all so stupid? His reason for being here was really obvious.


    Open the door-ss. Im here to see Herad, he told the man.


    She doesnt want to be disturbed. She told me not to open the door for anything short of an attack, the guard replied.


    I understand-ss. I could stab you a few times if you want-ss, cknail offered helpfully.


    Ha, no thanks. You dont scare me, you runt, Ill let you in though. If you piss the boss off it will be on your head, not mine, he replied with a confident smile, as he stepped aside.


    The hobgoblin gave him an annoyed look, but said nothing as he moved forward and politely knocked on the door. The argument going on inside subsided.


    Come in, Herad called out from within.


    cknail took a second to remove the severed head from his backpack. It was still wrapped up but the cloth was nowpletely soaked through with blood. The man standing beside cknail stared in revulsion at the object in the hobgoblins hands.


    The door swung open as cknail pushed it open and stepped through it. The spacious room on the other side had only one small window, and was thus mostly illuminated by a ck iron chandelier that held a dozen bright white candles.


    Arge square wooden table stood beneath the chandelier in the center of the room. The light from the candles revealed several people sitting around the table, but left the rest of the room in shadow.


    Herad, of course, was seated at the far end of the table in thergest chair. Saeter was sitting to her right. cknail threw them both confident looks as he walked in.


    Muted whispering broke out as the people around the table took in his cloaked form. Saeter, of course, recognized him immediately and frowned in concern. Herad raised an eyebrow in surprise as she gazed at him and noticed the bloody object in his hand.


    Youre dripping on my floor, cknail she told him with apparent calm.


    Sorry, mistress, he replied as he walked past the table and approached her.


    cknail wasnt fooled by her voice. He knew she was angry at him, and getting angrier. A subtle clue was how she was stroking her sword hilt. He had best get right to the point. As the hobgoblin came to a halts in front of her Herad leaned forward and addressed him.


    What are you doing here? I dont remember giving you permission to do that, hobgoblin. I also seriously doubt that Red Dog sent you; that wouldnt be much like him, she whispered as she red at cknail with her icy blue eyes.


    I wanted to serve, mistress. I heard there was something you wanted, so I went to get it for you. Its a present,  cknail quickly exined.


    The corner of Herads mouth twitched as the hobgoblin finished speaking. She turned and looked at the bloody object that dangled from his hand.


    Thats your present? This had better be good, hobgoblin. Otherwise, youll regreting here, briefly, Herad told him.


    cknail hurriedly pulled the cloth off, and held up the severed head within by its hair. There were gasps around the table as everyone took in the sight. Fangs face was sttered with blood and loose strands of hair were stuck to it. His skin had gone corpse white, and his jaw hung loosely so his mouth gaped open. Most disturbingly, his dead eyes stared forward unblinkingly.


    The hobgoblins mistress looked at it with disgust. cknail realized he had better exin. She probably didnt recognize him.


    For you, mistress. I give you the head of the man named Fang, he hissed dramatically.

 Den of Beasts 6

    Den of Beasts 6


    The entire room went silent. Herads mouth went slightly ck and her eyes widened the tinniest bit. She stared in surprise at the severed head for several seconds. cknail really hoped it was a good type of surprise. The suspense was actually painful.


    By all that is holy and all that is profane, it is him, she whispered.


    Nope, that didnt help. The hobgoblin still couldnt tell if Herad was pleased or not. Maybe she just needed a reminder of why she had wanted Fang dead in the first ce.


    I killed him; he was fat, and you didnt like him, cknail rified hopefully.


    As the anxious hobgoblin watched a savage grin suddenly sprung into existence on Herads lips. Her eyes began to gleam with excitement.


    cknail let out a breath of relief. He couldnt keep a happy smile from appearing on his lips, and he felt like dancing with joy. The chief was pleased by his gift. Truly, he was a genius. His n was working perfectly!


    Why dont any of you bring me gifts like this, Herad said with augh and an amused nce towards Saeter and the others around the table.


    From under his hood the happy hobgoblin grinned smugly at all the seated people. He was the chiefs favorite! cknail threw the cloth onto the table and then put his trophy down on top of it. Hed carried the thing far enough already, and it was Herads now anyway. He hoped she was going to put it somewhere it would look nice.


    In the light of the chandelier hanging overhead, cknail could clearly see the other people around the table throwing disbelieving looks at him and the severed head. A few of them had even gone pale, and one looked like he was about to be sick. They began chatting and whispering amongst themselves again, and the sound of their hushed voices echoed around the dark corners of the room. Saeter stood up to address his boss.


    I should go have a talk with cknail, and get a report from him somewhere more private, he told her.


    A thoughtful look appeared on Herads face, and she nced at the other men at the table. She then took another look at cknail and nodded.


    Agreed, take him to see Mahedium. He looks more than a little worse for wear, she told Saeter quietly.


    As you wish, he replied emotionlessly.


    Saeter then grabbed the hobgoblins shoulder and began dragging him from the room. cknail was surprised at his masters sudden action. He wanted to stay and gloat some more. Everyone had been so surprised when hed unwrapped Herads gift! No one was going to look down on him now, and he wanted to make sure all the new recruits at the table knew his new status.


    The sound of Herads raised voice could be heard from behind them as she resumed her previous conversation with the other people at the table. The voices were quieter though, and unlike when hed first entered Herad now seemed to have control of the conversation.


    Once they were out of the room and down the hallway where there was no one else around Saeter turned to cknail. The hobgoblin grinned at his master proudly, but Saeter scowled back at him.


    Fool, the old scout said as he smacked the hobgoblin across the side of the head.


    Ow! cknail eximed in surprise, before rubbing the sore spot and cringing.


    What do you think youre doing? Look at you, youre half dead! If you were just going to wander around and pick fights then you should have stayed at the camp, Saeter told him.


    I won! cknail whined.


    This time! What about the next time though? I have no idea how, or why, you pulled this stupid trick off. You wouldnt have if youd stopped to think for a second though! Now that youve acted as Herads personal assassin once shes going to expect you to do it again! Saeter told cknail angrily.


    Oh, thats not-ss good, cknail remarked hesitantly as he thought it through.


    Of course its not! I hope you had fun getting the crap kicked out of you, because Daggerpoint is stuffed full of killers and Sloshers who hate Herad. So congrattions, youve just volunteered to fight every single one of them, Saeter exined scornfully.


    The hobgoblin licked his lips nervously. This sounded like it was going to be a serious problem. Hed definitely not enjoyed fighting the man named Fang. Well, actually hed had lots of fun sneaking around and cutting Fang up, but that didnt make up for beating the bandit chief had given him. He still hurt in ces he hadnt even known existed before.


    Im too injured? cknail tentatively offered as an excuse.


    Ha, as if shell care. Herad has her own problems to deal with, and now she has a solution in you. How much do you think shell care about your injuries? Saeter responded.


    Not-ss at all the hobgoblin said with a sigh.


    Exactly, you idiot. Lets hope we can get you patched up quickly, although judging by the way your limping I doubt that will happen. Here lean on me; you shouldnt be putting weight on that ankle, his master told cknail .


    Im fine-ss; I can walk, cknail replied with a stubborn tone.


    Dont make me smack you again, boy, Saeter threatened as he raised a hand.


    cknail winced and hissed in annoyance, but when his master extended an arm he took it. As they continued walking down the hallway cknail leaned on Saeters shoulder. Soon, they arrived outside a heavy wooden door.


    Without bothering to knock Saeter pushed the door open and strode inside. Immediately, after entering the hobgoblin knew he was in Mahediums new workshop. Everything about this room strongly reminded cknail of the mages room back at the camp.


    ss beakers of colorful liquids were scattered around an otherwise sparse chamber. More than a few crystals could be seen as well. They were either floating in some of the sses or ced on shelves beside piles of books and delicate looking pieces of equipment.


    Mahedium was seated at a desk across the room and scribbling something on some papers. He looked up at them as they entered the chamber. A scowl appeared on his face when he saw Saeter but it disappeared when he saw cknail. Hes eyes shone with interest as he looked the hobgoblin over.


    cknail? I didnt know youd joined us, he remarked cheerfully.


    I got an injured hobgoblin here, mage. You think you can patch him up? He looks like someone thrashed him until he was ck and blue and green, Saeter asked the mage.


    Mahedium got up from the desk and met them in the center of the room. He didnt even look at Saeter, and instead focusedpletely on cknail.


    Ill have to examine him first, and then hope hobgoblins react to drugs in a simr way to humans, the mage answered.


    You dont have healing magic? Saeter asked.


    No, I dont; for a lot of reasons. The Fiery Eye is not a guild that worries about healing too much, and even if they were theres no way I would have gotten my hands on any healing spells. Healers are highly trained specialists, and theyre treated much better thanbat mages, Mahedium replied with a frown, as he leaned over and examined cknail bruised neck.


    I should have figured, Saeter responded grumpily.


    Lets get him into the light where I can get a better look at him. Over there on that chair should serve our purpose, Mahedium remarked.


    Saeter guided cknail towards the seat Medium had indicated and then ced him gently down, while Mahedium wandered the room and gathered a few things from the shelves. A few minutester the mage returned and stared thoughtfully at cknail. He then touched a crystal on a nearby desk and it red to life. This new light made it much easier to see.


    Hmmm, how do you feel, cknail? You definitely looked unsteady earlier. Are you suffering from nausea or a headache as well? he asked the hobgoblin.


    My head-ss hurts, but whats nausea? cknail replied in confusion.


    Er, does your stomach hurt? the mage rified.


    My everything hurts, the hobgoblin whined in response.


    Fine but does it feel like youre going to vomit? Mahedium asked him.


    Why couldnt the man have just asked that in the first ce? All these annoying questions were making cknail think, and thinking was making his headache worse.


    No, Im hungry though, cknail remarked hopefully.


    Youre always hungry. Sometimes I think youre half pig, Saeter told the hobgoblin with a smile.


    Thats probably a good sign; an appetite is a sign of health Mahedium mused aloud before turning to Saeter.


    Please hold his left, and then right, eye open for me while I check something, he asked the scout in a businesslike manner, as he reached into one of his pockets and withdrew something.


    cknail tried to squirm away as his master grabbed his head and then proceeded to pry his one eye open. He was still feeling weak though, so even raising his arms took an effort. Ouch, what the hells were they trying to do to him?


    Hold still you silly runt, thats an order, Saeter barked as he tried to keep his hold on the hobgoblin.


    Reluctantly, cknail rxed and stopped struggling. It hadnt really been doing him much good anyway. Saeter was also unusually strong right now for some reason. He must have been eating well recently.


    Mahedium reached into his pocket and pulled out a tiny crystal that was barely bigger than his finger tip, and held it up to cknails face. The hobgoblin tried to blink, but couldnt because Saeter was still holding his eyelid up.


    I thought you werent going to use magic, Saeter remarked suspiciously.


    This is just a light crystal, the mage replied.


    As cknail stared at the mana stone it suddenly burst to life. He instinctively tried to flinch away, but Saeter was still gripping him tightly. He rxed a secondter when he realized the light wasnt really all that bright and didnt actually hurt his eyes.


    In fact the crystal was more than a little interesting to look at. He had never stared right at one while it was lit before. There was a tiny speck in the very middle that seemed brighter than the other parts.


    His reaction seems fine as well, so I dont think hes suffered a dangerous head injury, Mahedium observed as he pocketed the crystal again.


    After seeing that the mage was finished Saeter let go of cknail. The hobgoblin shook himself, and started blinking frantically to moisten his dry eyes. Meanwhile, the mage stood up and frowned down at cknail with concern.


    Whats the matter now? Saeter grumbled impatiently.


    Hes a hobgoblin, Mahedium answered as he looked off to the side with a distracted manner.


    I noticed that, since awhile back actually, the old scout replied scornfully.


    Hmm yes, most people would. He also has obvious external injuries, but trying to figure out which herbs to apply is an interesting challenge. He might not react the same way a human would, so Ive chosen one of my more innoxious mixtures, the mage exined carefully.


    So apply it. Standing around and scowling isnt going to change anything, Saeter replied.


    Mahedium gave the older man an irritated look, but then got to work. Together, he and Saeter stripped cknail of most of his clothes. They then examined his wounds. The hobgoblin had only a few shallow cuts, but several rather impressive purple bruises decorated his skin.


    Huh, some of these are obviously at least a few days old, Mahedium remarked.


    The mage then began applying a sweet smelling paste to cknails wounds which numbed and cooled his skin. It was rather nice feeling, and soon the tension leaked from his body as he leaned back into the chair.


    Whats in that stuff, it doesnt smell like anything I would use, Saeter remarked.


    Its White Duff, Clegorvein, and ground Scalewood bark, Mahedium responded.


    Why are you using that crap? None of that has any real strength to it, Saeter asked him.


    Ive been a master apothecary for almost a decade. I think I know whichpounds to use, the mage replied, as he scowled with indignation.


    Apparently not, because I might not have a fancy title, but Ive been treating wounds since before you were born. So I know Saeter countered as the two men fell into an argument.


    The argument went on for several minutes, and both of them grew louder and more belligerent as time went on. It continued even after they had finished bandaging his wounds. cknail wasnt paying attention though. Despite the increasing noise levels, he was starting to fall asleep.


    cknail was still drifting back and forth across the ck borders of consciousness when the argument ended. Thus, he didnt even notice when Mahedium collected a small sample of his blood from one of his wounds. Saeter noticed though and quickly turned towards the mage with an angry expression his face.


    What do you think youre doing with that? What possible use could you have for his blood? he loudly demanded of the mage.


    The harsh sound of his voice woke cknail. The hobgoblin opened his eyes to see his master and Mahedium ring hostilely at each other. So, nothing much had changed.


    I simply want to run some tests on it. Hopefully, I can use it to discover whether goblin blood will react differently than human blood to several chemicals. That way I can be reasonably sure theyll be safe to use on cknail. Why do you care? Mahedium answered confrontationally.


    Even aplete fool knows better than to let a mage take their blood! You could use it to ce him under your power, Saeter responded.


    Then you definitely know as much as aplete fool. Even if those peasant superstitions are true, and I have no idea if they are, then do you really think thats that sort of thing the guilds would teachbat mages? No, of course it isnt! So why dont you just be quiet and let me work, Mahedium said as he red at the old scout.


    Saeter opened his mouth as if to respond, but then stopped and seemed to think better of it. He appeared to think something over for second before he next spoke.


    Fine, do as you will. Im watching you though, Saeter warned him.


    Mahedium just snorted dismissively and walked away to the other side of the room. Once there he started going through his equipment and picking stuff out. Saeter turned back to cknail.


    How are you feeling? his master asked as he waved his hand in front of the hobgoblins face.


    Sleepy. I want-ss to nap, cknail replied before yawning.


    As he drowsily watched Saeters hand move in front of his face, he felt a strange urge to snap at it. It kind of looked like a bird or something. He didnt actually try and bite it though; that would have involved getting up out of the chair.


    You can stay awake for a few minute, youzy runt. I have some questions that need answering. Its important, Saeter told him


    cknail failed to respond and his eyes lipped shut again. Saeter got his attention with a smack to the side of his head. The hobgoblin sprang awake as a new source of pain red into existence above his ear.


    Ow! Im injured, cknail whined.


    Youre too tough for your own good, so youll survive. Now are you going to answer my questions, or do you need another smack? Saeter said.


    Ill answer, cknail replied as he rubbed the side of his head.


    Good, so Im guessing you slipped away from camp and followed us here. What took you so long though? Saeter asked him.


    The hobgoblin considered the question for a second; it was a long story. Where to even start, and how could he tell it so that it would make him look the best? An impatient look appeared on Saeters face.


    I got attacked by a Hobgoblin, and had to rest, he blurted out, as Saeter raised a hand to hit him again.


    Exin, Saeter said as his eyes narrowed with interest.


    I was following-ss you when you went past the bushy ce. A nasty huge hobgoblin with impressive horns then jumped out and attacked me! He had lots and lots-ss of goblins with him, and they all tried to kill me. I kicked and bit them all though, and managed to fight them off by myself. I then killed the hobgoblin, and became the new chief. Since I was injured by the cheating no good hobgoblins lucky hit, I decided to stay there a while and rest, cknail exined.


    Sounds like quite the adventure if any of its true. How did you get to the city? the old scout asked doubtfully.


    His master didnt seem to believe that cknail was telling the truth for some reason. It was kind of insulting. He was just leaving some stuff out and maybe exaggerating a little.


    I asked for directions, twice, cknail replied as he shrugged. It hadnt been a big deal or anything.


    What, how? Never mind, Ill probably sleep better at night if I dont know the details, Seater remarked.


    How did you end up killing Fang though? He was a blowhard, but still a Slosher. How did you even know he was Herads enemy or where to find him?


    I listened to Herad yell at some people, she was very loud, cknail exined.


    Ha, yes she is at that. It probably wasnt all that hard to find us since all you had to do was follow the sound of her constant screaming, Saeter said with a chuckle.


    cknails eyelids were heavy and he didnt feel up to correcting Saeter, so he gave his master a brief nod. He also didnt want any part of insulting Herad. It was probably a good idea to change the topic of their conversation.


    I found Fang by ying a guessing game with a weird nakeddy, cknail then told Saeter.


    There was silence. The smile on Saeters face grew strained and his one eye twitched. Across the room Mahedium broke out into a fit of coughing. Had he said something wrong?


    You didnt um... murder this woman, did you? Saeter asked apprehensively.


    Nope, we just traded answers to questions. Do you usually kill people during guessing games? cknail asked with interest.


    No, I dont usually y them. Just in general its a bad idea to kill people, okay? Saeter replied.


    Why? You do it all the time, and so does Herad, the hobgoblin pointed out.


    There was another amused snort from Mahedium. Saeter closed his eyes and messaged his forehead with his fingertips. cknail thought he looked a little upset.


    Ugh, I just realized Red Dog may have had a point after all. This is my fault as much as yours, though. I should have taught you about morals and civilized behavior. I guess I just never expected you to leave the woods, Saeter remarked.


    The round things you put stuff in? cknail asked in confusion.


    No, those are barrels. Morals are very different, Saeter exined with a sigh.


    The sound of steps echoed from the doorway so cknail twisted around to see who was approaching. The doorway was soon darkened by the redheaded form of Khita.


    The hobgoblin groaned when he saw her. Why did it have to be her? She was incredibly annoying, and he was stuck in this chair so he couldnt even escape! He already regretted saving her.


    cknail, I heard that youd shown up! Everyone was talking about the small creepy cloaked guy who killed that bastard Fang, and then presented his bloody head to Herad. How sharp is that! When they mentioned that the assassin had disappeared with Saeter I knew for sure it must have been you, she eximed happily with a cheerful grin on her face.


    cknail is injured so dont get too close and you cant stay long, Saeter told the young woman.


    The hobgoblin threw his master a grateful look, and Saeter gave him a knowing smile. Mahedium also responded from across the room.


    Oh, quite right. Keep at least a few feet away please, and no touching the patient, the mage told Khita distractedly. He seemed engrossed in studying something at his desk.


    Sure thing, I got stuff to do anyway. Im super useful so Herad keeps me pretty busy, Khita responded with undaunted cheer.


    You deliver messages, Saeter replied dryly.


    Thats important. What if someone tried to steal the message? I would have to fight them off. In fact I got into a fight earlier today, so ha! Khita told him as she stabbed the air with a make believe knife.


    That had nothing to do with a message, they attacked you because You know what? Never mind, Saeter said with obvious frustration.


    Anyway, I just wanted to tell you that you killing Fang was the sharpest thing Ive ever heard of by far. I meane on, you brought his bleeding head to Herad in the middle of a meeting! How awesome is that! she told the hobgoblin.


    Does she know what morals are? cknail asked curiously while ncing at the still smiling Khita.


    I seriously doubt it, Saeter responded as he grimaced.


    Who does then? cknail inquired.


    Saeter sighed and rubbed his forehead again. He suddenly seemed more than a little tired, and his forehead had be creased by wrinkles.


    You know what? Forget I said anything. Just try to kill as few people as possible, okay? Saeter told him dryly.


    Advice to live by, unless youre an assassin of course, Khita interjected.


    Sure, cknail replied happily.


    He never killed anyone he didnt have to anyway. Why would he? That would be a lot of work, and more than a little silly.

 Den of Beasts 7

    Den of Beasts 7


    All of a sudden there was a gasp of surprise from where Mahedium was working, and then the mage began madly scribbling away and sorting through a pile of papers. Everyone looked over his way at the unexpected noise.


    Ha, I cant believe my luck, Mahedium eximed as he worked.


    Made a discovery have you? Perhaps Highwart nt is a goblin love potion or something? Saeter asked with a roll of his eyes.


    The mage didnt bother answering, or even appear to hear the other man. He just started chuckling to himself, as he stared at cknails blood sample. Saeter scowled and looked worried.


    I think our mage has lost it, Saeter remarked.


    Even cknail found the mages behavior more than a little odd. The hobgoblin got excited over blood sometimes, but only when it was fresher, and there was a lot more of it.


    He needs to stop sniffing his own herbs, if you know what I mean, Khita said.


    cknail had no idea what she meant. Saeter apparently did though, because the corner of his mouth curled up into something that sort of resembled a grin. Mahedium ignored Khita and turned to Saeter.


    Ive made an incredibly exciting find. It has nothing to do with herbs though. After the surprise revtion that Varhs pet goblin had the mage spark, I decided to run some tests on cknails blood just in case, and I just found something, he announced with obvious excitement.


    The young mage was practically vibrating with enthusiasm. In one hand he held up a small vial of purple liquid.


    Oh, is goblin blood like deadly poison or secretly magical? Khita remarked.


    No, thats idiotic. Stay silent while the grownups are talking, please, Mahedium replied irritably.


    What did you find? Saeter asked curiously, as Khita red at Mahedium.


    Before I say anything I want to be absolutely sure Im right, so I need to perform a few more quick tests, the mage answered as he quickly gathered up several things from his desk.


    Once Mahedium had what he wanted he hurried over to where cknail was sitting. The hobgoblin eyed him warily. He was fairly sure he didnt want the mage running any more tests, or performing any weird magic, on him. The eye test from earlier had been ufortable enough.


    Open your mouth, please. Normally Id just take a hair sample. Since you dont have much in the way of hair though, Im going to have to take a look at your teeth, Mahedium told cknail.


    The mage raised his hands in front of cknails face and waited expectantly.


    The hobgoblin met the mages gaze and gave him a dubious stare. The man couldnt seriously be nning on shoving his hands in between his jaws, could he?


    I dont want your fatty human hands in my mouth. Theyll taste bad, cknail replied as he stuck out his tongue in disgust.


    I keep my hands very clean, and I just washed them, Mahedium responded.


    Youre still human, and oily, the hobgoblin muttered.


    Just get it over with, cknail. Ill get you a treat right after, Saeter told him impatiently.


    The hobgoblin sighed but did as he was told. Maybe he could convince his master to get him one of those meat pies from earlier


    Mahedium raised his tiny light crystal up to cknails mouth. As it red to life he raised a small knife and began to carefully poke and prod around the hobgoblins teeth. It was more than a little annoying, and cknail gave Mahedium an irritated look. As he had suspected the mans fingers also tasted horrible, like old sweat.


    Huh, I expected them to be dirtier. You actually keep your teeth fairly clean, the magemented as he worked.


    cknails eyes narrowed. Why wouldnt his mouth be clean? It was humans that were weird and smelly.


    I know its tempting, but dont bite him, Saeter told cknail.


    A few secondster the mage withdrew his hand and smiled proudly to himself. cknail shut his mouth and rubbed his jaw. Holding it open like that had been kind of painful.


    I was right! An elemental test of his blood revealed traces of crystal integration, and just now I discovered his teeth show subtle signs of fairly recent crystallization, Mahedium announced.


    So hes a mage too? Saeter replied warily.


    He didnt seem too happy at the idea, which kind of hurt cknails feeling. Hadnt he earned his masters trust yet? The hobgoblin wouldnt mind bing a mage. There were so many things he wanted to blow up! It would be glorious.


    No, thats not indicative of the evidence I found. If he was a mage he wouldnt show the secondary signs such as crystallization of the teeth. Not to mention, I tested him for that not too long ago and found nothing. Hes also not a mutant, for obvious reasons. So, by process of elimination we can conclude that cknail is actually a dormant Vessel, Mahedium exined happily.


    Hey, thats what I just said; his bloods magical, Khita muttered as she red angrily at the mage.


    No one bothered to respond to her. cknail sighed in disappointment. So he wasnt a mage and he wouldnt get to start blowing things up with magic. At least he was a Vessel thingy though. That made him super strong or something right?


    Hows that possible? Hes never shown any signs of that, and hes certainly never taken any Elixir, Saeter asked with a voice full of doubt as he crossed his arms in front of himself.


    I dont know how he was initially exposed to some form of Elixir, but at some point he undoubtedly was. As to him not showing any signs of being a Vessel, well the answer to that is obvious. He hasnt had any Elixir to fuel himself, so the ability is nowpletely dormant, the mage replied.


    So its utterly useless, since we have no way of getting him Elixir or even knowing what the right type is, Saeter pointed out with more than a little evident relief.


    Maybe Id like to run a few more tests, and theres someone in town that I may be able to consult with. It might be technically possible to find the correct type, Mahedium told them.


    Well, good luck with that. Just dont be expecting to draw too much more of cknails blood. With the way things are going hes going to need it right where it is. If you want to y around with a Vessels blood feel free to ask Herad, though, Saeter told the mage.


    I have as of yet not decided on the proper time or method of asking Herad for a blood sample Mahedium admitted reluctantly.


    And thats why youre still alive, Saeter told him.


    His remark caused Khita to chuckle, which earned her a re from Mahedium. cknail wasnt quite sure what was going on, so he decided to ask.


    What does me being a Vessel mean? he asked the others.


    Nothing really, dont worry about it, Saeter replied.


    It means if you find this one type of magic potion then it will give you magical powers, and you wont die, or explode, or anything, Khita added


    Good, thats good, cknail mused aloud.


    He really wanted magic of his own, and he definitely didnt want to explode. It sounded like he needed to find this Elixir stuff.


    Theres absolutely no way to find the right Elixir though, Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    Thats notpletely true. I just finished telling you that I may know of someone who could help, Mahedium argued.


    Fine, you do what you want. If you manage to find anything then tell us, but dont expect any help looking. Also, if you tell Herad about any of this nonsense then Ill make sure you regret it for the rest of your life. Thanks to cknails recent idiocy she already has enough weird notions in her head about using him. If you tell her about this, Saeter warned the mage.


    He stopped talking when cknail poked him urgently on the shoulder, and he threw the hobgoblin a confused nce. cknails eyes were wide with concern. He hadnt noticed it at first because hed been distracted by the conversation, but now he definitely heard the sound of familiar footsteps approaching.


    Ah, Saeter youre so predictable sometimes. I knew youd try to keep the hobgoblin away from me, Herad said as she walked through the doorway and into the room. Im sorry if Im intruding, but the things you were just saying sound so intriguing. Im having weird notions am I? Well have to talk about thatter. Right now though, I want my mage there to tell me more about the rather interesting conversation you were all just having.


    There was a rather nasty looking grin on her face that was directed Saeters way, and from under her dark bangs her eyes gleamed with furious excitement. cknail winced in apprehension and took a step away from Saeter. His master should have kept his big mouth shut.


    Fuck, Saeter grunted quietly, before turning around and facing his boss.


    Exin, now, Heradmanded Mahedium.


    Right, of course, the mage stuttered in reply. As you undoubtedly heard just now, after running some tests on cknails blood I discovered that some time ago he must have ingested a sample of Elixir. Obviously, he managed to survive the transformation into a Vessel, but he hasnt been showing any signs the mage quickly exined before Herad cut him off with an annoyed re and wave of her hand.


    I heard that part, and I dont much care. I dont need another Vessel, I need ess to Elixir. Get to the part where you mentioned knowing someone that might be able to supply you with some, she told him with a disdainful sneer.


    Mahedium opened his mouth as if to talk, but then closed it again. His forehead grew creased and he seemed reluctant to speak. Herad made an irritated growling noise, and he flinched before finally answering.


    Since my arrival in Daggerpoint Ive been making inquiries about any other rogue mages that might be in the city. Most of the leads Ive found were dead ends, unfortunately. None of the mages in this city are very knowledgeable about the magic they unt. Theyre the lowest sort ofbat mage, with not a schr among them, Mahedium bitterly told her.


    As the mage talked Saeters eyes flickered towards the exit. He looked to be considering trying to slip away while Herad was distracted. cknail didnt me him.


    Even the market for spell stones and Elixirs is very limited and expensive. It contains nothing but the asional piece of loot taken off a corpse. I highly suspect most of the crystals get purchased and then returned unused to the market when their owner is murdered, Mahedium continued.


    But you said you found someone, Herad pointed out impatiently.


    Yes, there was one merchant who seems to have a steady source of several Elixers, including Braxwells and Whitestrom. He refused to even discuss where he got it at first, but I was persistent. Eventually, I managed to get him to deliver a message to his supplier. I only got a short reply back, but it was enough to confirm my suspicions that someone in town is creating the Elixir. Theyve agreed to meet with me in order to facilitate an exchange of knowledge, the mage concluded.


    Tricky Saeter remarked softly.


    Yet, more than worth a little risk. A reliable source of Elixir could change the odds against uspletely, Herad added with a hostile re at Saeter.


    cknail blinked in surprise at Herads reaction to Saeter. He was more than a little surprised she hadnt sheathed a few of her knives into his masters chest already. She seemed really focused on getting her hands on this Elixir stuff. He almost thought he detected the tiniest bit of sour smelling desperation from her


    True, but that doesnt mean we should run right into this. Anyone with a monopoly on such a lucrative trade isnt going to just give it up, and is more than likely working with one of the other chiefs. Its probably a trap, Saeter replied as he frowned in concern.


    Obviously, it could be a trap. I dont need you to tell me that, Saeter. Well just have to take precautions, and turn it back on them if theyre stupid enough to try something, Herad told him scornfully.


    cknail smiled as he listened. He thought that sounded fun. The idea of the hunter bing the hunted amused him.


    When and wheres this meeting supposed to take ce, Saeter asked Mahedium.


    Two days from now at a residence in the Central District of the city. Im allowed toe armed and bring onepanion, the mage answered.


    You agreed to enter a location of their choosing, with only one man for back up? I honestly thought you were smarter than that, Mahedium! This magic stuff is sure makes idiots out of people, Saeter told him.


    Im not stupid, Saeter. Theyre allowing me to bring my gear, and Im abat mage. Ill have someone with me to watch my back, and enough magic at my disposal to level a small building. Besides, meeting in a public ce wouldnt do me any good; Ill be visiting theirb. Well need equipment and resources in order to aplish anything, the mage replied.


    What if they take you by surprise? Saeter asked.


    Ill just have to make sure that doesnt happen. Youre worrying too much anyway. Ill be going to the Inner City which is neutral territory. If they cause a disturbance there it will draw the attention of the Governor, Mahedium responded.


    Ha, I have way more experience with this city than you, boy. The Governor and his men may enforce peace within the center of this snake pit, but theyre powerless outside of it without the backing of the band leaders. They also dont care about murder, just that it doesnt happen on the streets, cknails master countered scornfully.


    Its worth the risk, Saeter. Youve said enough, dont you think? So shut your trap, Herad ordered the old scout before turning to the mage. Who were you nning on taking with you, Mahedium?


    Yesterday I couldnt have told you, but just now I decided on taking cknail, Mahedium replied.


    Absolutely not! Saeter barked immediately.


    Herad threw him a dark look and the old scout took a step back. Saeter looked like he really regretted speaking.


    Its very simply not up to you, so be quiet. cknail is no longer your servant, Herad told him coldly, before turning to cknail. Its up the hobgoblin himself, and me. Youre both my minions,


    cknail froze as everyone looked his way. Oh oh, this wasnt good. He really didnt like being in the middle of a fight between Herad and Saeter. No matter which side he chose it wouldnt be good for him. Why couldnt everyone just get along?


    I had intended his presence to serve several purposes. You just mentioned that I should be concerned about being taken by surprise. I think we can agree thats unlikely to happen if cknail is with me. They will be unprepared for the superior senses of a hobgoblin, Mahedium reasoned.


    Saeter just scowled and grunted vaguely in response. cknail however grinned happily to himself. Mahedium was right; hobgoblins were both superior and more sensible than humans.


    If they have good intentions and we cane to a deal, then cknail will also serve as a test of their skill as well. If they can make an Elixir for him they can undoubtedly make one for Herad as well, Mahedium exined to Saeter.


    You could just take a blood sample with you, Saeter told him.


    I thought you didnt want me taking anymore samples from cknail, Mahedium replied scornfully.


    cknail will go with Mahedium, and hell even get a pay raise for volunteering. To reflect his increased usefulness, Herad said with a meaningful look at cknail.


    The hobgoblin gave her a confused look back, before realizing what she wanted a secondter. Oh well, surely Saeter wouldnt me him since Herad was giving him an order, sort of.


    He kind of wanted to go anyway. From what he had heard this might be is best shot of getting some magic of his own. That would be so useful


    Ill go with Mahedium-ss. Ill fill these men with fear, and stab the people who try to hurt him, cknail told Herad with an enthusiastic nod of his head.


    Saeter scowled grumpily at the hobgoblins reply, but he didnt say anything. Herad threw a smug grin his way. She seemed to take a lot of pleasure from gloating over Saeter.


    Ill go too. Im also great at stabbing people, Khita added from where she was standing off to one side.


    Youll be staying here; safely out of the way, Herad told the younger woman without even looking at her.


    But Khita started to say before cknail kicked her in the back of the knee.


    Khita stumbled and red with narrowed eyes at the Hobgoblin, but he didnt care. She seriously didnt know when to stop talking. You didnt argue with Herad; you shut up and did as she told you.


    Its settled then. Mahedium will take cknail, and together theyll enter this rogue magesboratory. Ill prepare a squad of men that will wait nearby. If theres trouble then Mahedium will signal us using magic, Herad told everyone.


    Thank you for your support in this, Mistress Herad. I predict this endeavor will benefit us both greatly. As for a signal, I could always aim a force st upwards. That should make a lot of noise and throw a quite a bit of debris into the air. It would be hard to miss, the mage remarked.


    What could go wrong? Saeter muttered grouchily as he nced at Herads turned back.

 Den of Beasts 8

    Den of Beasts 8


    cknail and Mahedium were walking through the city alone. It was a cloudy afternoon in Daggerpoint, as the pair made their way down one of the citys main streets.


    Several days had passed since the hobgoblin had rejoined Herads band. Hed spent most that time lying around, healing, and stuffing his face with food.


    It was just after noon and the roads were crowded. Crowds of of bustling people were everywhere, so cknail wore his long dark brown cloak. With the hood up itpletely concealed his form, and prevented him from drawing unwanted attention. The two of them still got the asional second nce though. They made for an odd looking pair.


    Mahedium was dressed up to impress. He wore a set of fine clothes including a red shirt with long loose sleeves. He had also shaved and gotten a haircut, which made him look much different than the disheveled and distracted man he usually seemed to be. Most importantly, he wore several pouches around his waist, and was carrying his staff.


    Even though everyone on the street was armed, and half of them were thieves and killers, no one bothered them. A mage was more than the nearby thugs and pickpockets were willing to tangle with, and they didnt know what to make of cknail.


    The crowds grew thinner as they neared the Central Quarter of the city. The border was obvious in the daytime, but cknail had only been here at night before. Not only were the housesrger and better maintained there, but there were far less people on the street.


    Several men with helmets who were holding long spears and wearing steel breasttes watched everyone who passed. Their choice of equipment made them stand out. Spears and shiny metal werent popr with most the other humans in the city, probably because they made it harder to run away.


    The metal wearing humans didnt stop anyone from passing into the Central Quarter, but only a few people seemed to want to walk past them anyway.


    cknail noticed that the shiny men got a lot of hostile looks from other people on the street. Even though they were badly outnumbered by the nearby crowds no one tried to start anything, though. Obviously, the spearmen werent very popr, but they were respected warriors nheless.


    As they were walking Mahedium turned to cknail, and pointed at the steel d humans.


    Those are the Governors men, and were entering his territory. He allows anyone entry, but they have to obey his rules. Mostly, they involve keeping the streets orderly and clear. Stick by me, and dont draw attention to us, the mage told the hobgoblin.


    cknail gave the mage an annoyed re. That had been his n anyway. He had obviously been doing that the entire way here, so why did Mahedium feel the need to mention it? Humans, other than his master, must just really like to hear themselves talk.


    As they crossed the border Mahedium started to look nervous. He was very obviously staring at the guards out of the corner of his eye, and hed grown twitchy. cknail on the other hand just strolled casually by; he didnt see a reason to be nervous. There were already plenty of humans around, and these were just a few more.


    The mage and the hobgoblin made it past the Governors men unimpeded; the spearmen didnt try to stop them. As they headed deeper into the inner part of the city the houses and buildings began to getrger and fancier.


    There were noticeably less people out and about as well. The humans here were better dressed, but the asional group of thugs and miscreants still could be seen wandering around. The crowds were also quieter, and there was a lot less shouting.


    As cknail observed the surroundings, a patrol of half a dozen of the armored men from before came down the street. These ones had swords instead of spears, but they were obviously from the same tribe as the border guards.


    We should be near the right ce. Keep a look out for any signs that mention our destination, Mahedium told the hobgoblin as they walked.


    I cant do-ss the reading thing, cknail pointed out.


    Ah, of course you cant. I should have realized that; youve obviously never had a chance to learn. Maybe Ill teach you the basics sometime, Mahedium replied as he looked around.


    cknail snorted. Why would he want to learn to read anyway? All his time was spent doing chores and learning useful things, like cooking and sword fighting. There were so many things he had to practice already. Reading seemed useless to him anyway; he would be better off burning books for warmth, or clubbing people over the head with them.


    Ah, there it is, Mahedium eximed as he pointed to a building up ahead of them.


    It was arge mansion surrounded by a wrought iron fence. The inner section of the city was where all therger and better maintained homes were located, which in Daggerpoint just meant they were more than one story and werent in immediate danger of falling down.


    This home however looked to be in good repair. There wasnt a single shingle missing from the roof. The only obvious w was that the grounds were overgrown, but the fact it had grounds at all was impressive. Most the other buildings just had arge patch of mud out front.


    The yard behind the iron fence had severalrge trees scattered across it. A long wild looking row of hedges ran along the path; up from the gate to the front door of the residence. There were also a few overgrown flower beds full of weeds. All the unkempt greenery cast a lot of shadows in the afternoon sun, and gave the building a sinister air.


    cknail barely gave the house and yard a second nce though; his attention was focused on therge rough looking man standing on the other side of the gate. He had a sword at his hip and a mean look in his eyes that reminded cknail of the more dangerous bandits from Herads band. The man was without a doubt an experienced killer, and not one of the Governors men.


    The hobgoblin eyed him carefully as he and the mage approached, and he couldnt help but growl softly. The fact that such a human was being used as a guard made him more than a little uneasy. The owner of the house wasnt messing around when it came to security.


    The guard wasnt looking their way, but cknail wasnt fooled. He could tell by the mans posture and movements that hed noticed the two of them approaching. The man was good not great, but still good. Mahedium didnt seem to notice cknails concern, because he walked right up to the man and announced himself.


    Im Mahedium Loggart and I have an appointment with your master. As per the agreement I havee armed and with one escort, the mage dered confidently.


    The guard gave Mahedium and cknail a brief look over. His stare was intense, but also indifferent at the same time. cknail had to stifle another growl; the mans condescending attitude raised his hackles.


    Without a word the man then stepped over and unlocked the gate, before throwing it open.


    Enter, he told them emotionlessly.


    Mahedium hesitated and an uneasy look shed across his face. He was clearly thrown a little off bnce by the guards attitude. After a few seconds though, he unfroze and walked through the gate. The hobgoblin shadowed him closely while keeping careful watch on the guard. He already didnt like this ce.


    He certainly wasnt a cheery fellow. The master of this abode should really consider getting some friendlier staff. Theres something to be said for basic courtesy after all, the mage muttered as he walked up the path to the house. Why would anyone want such inhuman thugs around?


    cknail met Mahediums gaze. The mage blinked and stared at the hobgoblin for a second before sighing.


    Right, never mind, he then muttered to himself.


    The hedge loomed to their right as they approached the end of the path. When they got to the entrance Mahedium knocked politely. It was a massive wooden double doors. Almost immediately they began to swing open. The mage looked nervously through the entranceway. Another guard simr to the first one stood on the other side, and had opened the doors.


    Please take a seat, he told them before stepping aside.


    The room on the other side was huge and dark. It was two stories tall andrge enough to fit dozens of people. A pair of staircases ran up the walls on either side of the room, and led to the second floor. The windows were few in number however, and had curtains on them that blocked the light. As a result, the corners of the room were dim and shadowy.


    Mahedium threw cknail a nervous nce, but the hobgoblin just shrugged. The mage had been the one that had wanted toe here, and hobgoblins could see in the dark. With another sigh Mahedium stepped into the house.


    A ir for the dramatic is prettymon in mages, but this seems like overkill, even to me, he muttered to himself.


    Plush red furniture lined the room, including several couches and chairs, so Mahedium headed for the nearest set and sat down. cknail sat down beside him, in a chair that was asfy as it was ornate and red.


    Just as he was settling down, a casual breath brought an unexpected scent with it. The building smelled of human blood. Not just one person either, but many different humans. cknail was unsure of what to make of it, so he decided to ask.


    The hobgoblin casually leaned over towards hispanion, and whispered in his ear.


    It smells of human-ss blood here. Many different people-ss, cknail told the mage.


    Mahedium looked rather ufortable and wary of having cknail so close, but after the hobgoblin finished speaking his eyes narrowed and he frowned uneasily. He appeared to be thinking something over.


    Its probably nothing; dont worry about it, the mage replied after a few seconds.


    cknail shrugged and sat back down in his chair. He could tell the mage wasnt being entirely forting, and was somewhat concerned about something, but he didnt really care. It was probably just some pointless human thing anyway.


    After a few minutes of waiting for something to happen Mahedium began to scowl impatiently, and cknail grew bored. The hobgoblin could only amuse himself by examining the contents of the room for so long.


    The guard by the door was particrly boring, as all he did was stare straight ahead. The hobgoblin was tempted to throw something at him, just to see what would happen. He doubted Mahedium would approve though.


    cknail shifted restlessly in his seat. At least the chair he was sitting in was veryfy. As he moved the plush cushions made him spring up into the air slightly. He smiled at the unusual sensation, and did it again on purpose.


    Soon the bored hobgoblin was bouncing up and down on the chair and snickering to himself in amusement. The chair was just so soft and springy! He needed to find a chair like this to borrow when no one was using it, or around to see him.


    cknails antics finally caused the man by the door to turn towards the visitors. He began scowling at the hobgoblin in annoyance, and with more than a little disbelief. Mahedium noticed as well.


    Stop that, its impolite. Just sit still, he whispered to cknail.


    The hobgoblin sighed but did as hed been told; it had been getting old anyway. Once cknail had settled down, they only had to wait a few more minutes for their host to arrive. A set of doors across the room were thrown open and two men stepped out.


    The first was an older man, even older than Saeter. He wore immacte ck clothing with silver lining, was bald, and sported a neatly trimmed short white beard. His face was wrinkled with age, but his eyes were sharp and his movements swift and full of purpose.


    Behind him came another man who looked to be another one of the houses guards. Like the others he was arge man with a cold focused stare. He also wore the same ck and grey uniform. cknail could tell by the warriors bodynguage that he was subordinate to the white haired elder.


    The pair quickly crossed the floor of the room, and drew near their guests. Mahedium politely rose to meet them and cknail followed suit, mostly because it made it easier for him to fight or flee.


    As the mage stepped forward the hobgoblin fell in behind him in mimicry of the old mans guard. By doing so he made his role obvious, and was thus much more likely to be overlooked.


    Wee, you must be Mahedium. Thank you for waiting. I simply had some other business I had to attend to. Im known as Master Avolus, and that is how you may address me, the older man told the mage.


    He then reached out and extended a white gloved hand. After a second of hesitation Mahedium extended his own arm and they shook hands.


    Ah, its a pleasure to meet you Master Avolus. Pardon me, but you must be the mage I corresponded with, then? Mahedium asked respectfully.


    Indeed I am. I must say that Im also d to meet you. Its been a while since Ive had an opportunity to converse with a colleague. Rogue mages with an interest in thaumaturgic research are very rare. The guilds are usually very sessful in weeding us out, and of course theyre not the only ones who benefit from monopolizing magical knowledge, Avolus said with a smile that didnt quite reach his eyes.


    Mahediums eyes narrowed slightly at the other mans words and tone. They were more than a little suspicious, and cknail was sure he detected a hint of threat in them.


    Yes well, Im a skilledbat mage with quite a few powerful crystals at my disposal. I could show them to you if you like. I was also very lucky ining across Mistress Herad, and in being allowed to join her band. In fact she expressed interest in this visit herself, and wanted me to tell her all about it as soon as I got back, Mahedium replied dryly.


    Well then Id better be on my best behavior, Id hate for her to think badly of me, the older man said with a faint smile.


    cknail didnt like the older mans grin. He looked like he knew some secret joke no one else was aware of. The hobgoblin hated not getting a joke.


    He also didnt like what the bodynguage of the old mans guard was telling him. The huge thugs face was calm and unreadable, but his posture betrayed his contempt for his masters guests. Yet, the bodyguard was also looked ready to act at anytime, as if he expected a fight of some sort to break out.


    I feel like sitting, Avorlus then remarked.


    He snapped his fingers and pointed to a small nearby table. Instantly, the guard by the door hurried over and picked the table up. He rushed over at put it down in front of the older man. Avorlus then pointed to a nearby chair, and the guard brought that over as well.


    Mahedium nodded and both mages sat down across from each other at the table. Avorlus guard took up position standing behind his masters chair. cknail copied him again, and stood behind Mahedium.


    Well then, now that weve been properly introduced, feel free to make yourselffortable. We have much to discuss, the older mage told them.


    This is a rather nice home you have here, your business must be quite profitable, Mahedium politelymented.


    It certainly pays the bills and keeps me fed. Theres always a demand for elixir in Daggerpoint, and the city is short on suppliers. What about you, how are you finding the city? Avorlus replied with a smug grin.


    Well enough. Its nice to be out from under the guilds, and take destiny into my own hands. There are no lords or guild masters here to exploit me, and tell me what I can and cant learn, the other mage answered.


    Very true. I myself found them quite stifling as well. Daggerpoint of course is not without its own dangers, Avorlus replied.


    Obviously, youve managed to prosper though, the younger mage remarked.


    You seem to know a fair bit about my own operations, but I know next to nothing about you. May I enquire as to your own knowledge and background? Your note was intriguing, but severelycking in detail, Avorlus asked.


    Now it was Mahediums turn to smile knowingly.


    Im sure theres not much I could tell you that you dont already know. A man so obviously as intelligent and sessful as yourself would have already looked into my history as soon as my note arrived. Its also not like my past is a secret. You, on the other hand, are quite the enigma though, the younger mage replied.


    Straight down to business it is then. When you first contacted me you suggested an exchange of knowledge would be to both our interests. That seems unlikely to me, but Id like to know what you have to offer anyway. As youve already correctly determined Im a maker of Elixirs, Avorlus said.


    And youve amassed yourself a fortune, by secretly selling them to bandit chieftains using intermediaries, Mahedium remarked.


    Avorlus nodded in response, so Mahedium continued speaking.


    My own area of expertise lies in a different area of research. I specialize in creating spell crystals. I have the skills and knowledge to grow them from scratch, Mahedium told the other man as he reached into his coat.


    The old mages guard tensed at Mahediums movement, but didnt act further. Master Avorlus barely reacted. His fake looking smile didnt falter at all.


    The younger mage then pulled out a small pouch and emptied it onto the table. Half a dozen transparent crystals rolled across the table. Avorlus white eyebrows rose slightly in surprise.


    They are a gift, from me to you. A token of my respect and an offer of friendship, the younger mage exined.

 Den of Beasts 9

    Den of Beasts 9


    Master Avorlus reached down and picked thergest stone up with two fingers. It was slightly smaller than his closed fist. He stared at it for a second and it pulsed with light.


    These are all light crystals, the older mage observed impassively.


    Yes well, since I see that youre using candles to light your home, I think these will be quite useful to you, Mahedium replied.


    The older man grunted and eyed Mahedium with new interest.


    Yes, these would be quite useful, but worth Elixirs? I dont believe so. You cantpare the ability to uplift mere men into Vessels to something thats a small improvement over a candle, he remarked scornfully.


    Perhaps, but light crystals dont kill most the people who try and use them either, and I have other stones, Mahedium countered.


    So what if you do? I make more than enough money to buy as many crystals as I want by selling Elixirs. Why do I need you? the older mage replied.


    Mahedium didnt seem concerned by Avorlus argument. He leaned back in his chair and appeared to rx.


    You cant use your potions yourself though. Youre a mage not a Vessel. Are you really satisfied with granting other people power, and not finding ways to make and use magic for yourself? he asked.


    Youre assuming I dont know how to make my own spell stones, Avorlus responded coldly.


    cknail wasnt fooled though. The older man was looking lessposed and sure of himself now. Mahedium leaned forward and stared hard into the other mages eyes.


    I know you cant, for the same reasons I know you cant actually buy all the crystals you want. This home is lit by candles instead of magic. Where are all the crystals youre supposedly buying? Ill tell you where. Theyre tucked away somewhere safe, or hidden about your person in case of an emergency. Youre never going to use them though; theylly there forever. You wont risk wasting them when you can never be sure youll be able to rece them, and thus youll never be truly free to use the power that is yours by right, Mahedium exined with calm intensity.


    The younger mage kept up eye contact with the older mage, as he reached down and picked up one of the spell stones on the table. He concealed it in his closed fist, before it burst to life. The light from the crystal was so strong the shadows of the bones in his hand were visible as light zed out from between his fingers. Then the light died, and Mahedium dropped the used up spell stone onto the table.


    Power that cant be used as one wishes, is not truly power at all, hemented dryly.


    Avorlus looked away. His teeth were clenched hard together, and he looked unsettled now.


    Very well, Im listening. What do you propose? he replied few secondster in a defeated tone.


    Let us start by being forthright with each other. We could sit here all day making crypticments and never aplish anything. Instead though, lets put our cards on the table, and see what we have to trade, Mahedium suggested.


    Avorlus coolly eyed the younger mage for a few seconds, but then nodded. Seeing this, Mahedium continued talking.


    I have next to no information on the process of creating Elixirs, and you do. I can show you the basic techniques for creating spell stones however. What would you be willing to trade for it? he asked.


    Trade? Youre here in my home begging favors from me. Im an experienced mage and youre nothing but a young upstart. I might teach you something in exchange for the scraps of knowledge you possess, but that doesnt make us equals, Avorlus responded coldly.


    The old bald bearded mage then raised a gloved hand to reveal he held a crystal against his palm. ck smoke began to curl and rise menacingly upward from the spell stone. cknail really didnt like the look of that, or the smell. It reminded him of rotten eggs.


    Mahedium tensed at the other mages actions. His own hand inched towards one of the spell stones concealed up his sleeve.


    I should warn you that I have a ratherrge force stone tucked up against my skin right now. If you do anything too sudden I might ignite it, and reduce everything in this room to smithereens, Mahedium told the older mage, as he reached up his sleeve and pulled out a small wand. The end of the rod held a small crystal, and it began to thrum and vibrate.


    He didnt point it at anyone, but he didnt have to, the message was clear. He wasnt intimidated by the other mages disy. cknail got ready to draw his own weapon and fight as well. He would have preferred to flee, but the door was guarded and all the windows were too small to squeeze through.


    The two mages eyes met, and they stared defiantly at each other. Then Avorlus chuckled, and smiled humorlessly.


    Youre very determined, I see. Good, maybe youre worth dealing with after all, he remarked.


    Mahediums posture rxed at the other mans words, but he didnt put his wand back away. cknail continued to stare at the mages bodyguard, who was staring right back at him. The hobgoblin wasnt exactly sure what he was going to do if he actually had to fight this massive human, but that didnt stop him ring menacingly.


    Avorlus noticed his guests hostility and sighed dramatically. He then carefully ced his spell stone on the table in front of him.


    Your turn, he remarked confidently.


    Mahedium gave the older mage a hard stare, but relented a secondter. He tucked his wand back into his sleeve, and out of sight.


    I think youll find that Im willing to do practically anything to increase my knowledge of magic. Now, what are you willing to trade for the basic techniques for creating spell stones, Mahedium asked the other mage.


    As am I, young mage. Over the years I have collected quite a bit of information on the crystal growing process. Ive never had any luck making it work though; the information is iplete. There are however a few forms for spells in there that Im sure would be of great value to you, though. I will exchange this knowledge for the basic techniques youve acquired, Avorlus offered carefully.


    I would have to look it over before agreeing to anything, was Mahediums answer.


    I will allow you to read a sample of the writings beforehand, Avorlus told him.


    eptable, but there are other areas Im interested in as well, the younger mage replied.


    Avorlus tensed slightly and leaned backwards. The hostile look from earlier returned to his eyes. Mahedium didnt seem surprised or concerned though.


    You have nothing valuable enough to trade for my knowledge of Elixirs, the older man replied coldly.


    So I understand, but Im not asking for anything like all your knowledge. I simply need to be able to create one specific form, that which my leader Herad uses. She requires a new source of the Ressertein Elixir, and has tasked me with procuring it for her. Your business would remain undisturbed, Mahedium exined.


    Do you have anything to offer me for this? If not, then shell just have to purchase it from me like everyone else. Im not afraid of the bandit chiefs, Avorlus told him coldly.


    Mahedium rubbed his chin thoughtfully, and looked off to one side for a second.


    I have some unique Vessel samples you might be interested it. Theye from a rather interesting source, he told the other man.


    They would have to be very interesting indeed. Avorlus remarked doubtfully.


    Oh, they are. cknail would you please remove your hood, Mahedium asked.


    From where he was standing behind his chair the hobgoblin gave the mage a curious look. He didnt really want to reveal himself in such a in manner. It wasnt fun enough. Everyone was now looking his way, and Avorlus looked caught between curiosity and confusion.


    Now, please, Mahedium requested impatiently, but with a trace of humor.


    cknail sighed, but then did as he was told. He flipped his hood down, and then gave the guard across from him a broad toothy smile. The reaction was immediate. Avorlus flinched away from him, and his guard went for his sword.


    Fuck me, the guard whispered to himself.


    This caused cknails smile to widen. He had won the game, and made the stupid human say something aloud! Mahedium calmly reached into his sleeve and withdrew the small wand again, which he pointed at the guard.


    Theres no need for violence; hes friendly as long as you are. However, if you attempt to raise your de against him then hell be the least of your worries, because Ill st you across the room so fast you wont know what hit you, Mahedium told them.


    What is this thing that youve brought into my home? Avorlus asked in shock. His eyes were wide with rm, and his wrinkled face and grown paler.


    cknail hissed in annoyance at the mans tone and words. It was more than a little insulting. The older mages hand had also slipped into one of his pockets where it was clenching something. cknail was sure it was a weapon or spell stone of some sort.


    Its a hobgoblin, and also a Vessel. Hes the sample I was talking about before. Introduce yourself cknail, Mahedium said.


    Hello. I promise not to kill you, or other bad things, cknail told them cheerfully.


    Avorlus continued to stare in shock at cknail; he didnt seem reassured.


    See? Hes actually a rather nice fellow when you get to know him, Mahedium added with a smile of his own.


    Avorlus turned his attention to the younger mage, and then seemed to rx and regain hisposure. He made a waving motion at the guard behind him, and the other man rxed as well.


    Its a Vessel you say? Any idea which Elixir? the older mage asked with obvious interest.


    Im a he, not an it, cknail told the man with forced smile.


    I have no idea, but the blood work I did was conclusive. I was hoping you could tell us more, Mahedium answered.


    I must admit to never seeing a non-human vessel before. Ive heard of them of course, though. Some of the guilds create hunting dogs or warhorses, but theyre the y toys of the high nobility. How did he be a Vessel, and why do you think I will be interested in studying him? Avorlus asked.


    Thats an interesting question. cknail was originally picked up by one of Herads men when they liberated him from a caravan, which just happened to have been guarded by a mage.


    From which guild? Avorlus asked curiously.


    Im getting to that. It was before I joined, but Herad actually keeps records of everything she procures and sells. She also had some papers from the merchants themselves. From descriptions of the mage and the records I was able to determine that he was attached to that caravan in order to guard a shipment of materials for his guild; the Purple Hearts, Mahedium exined.


    I see; the goblin was part of the cargo, Avorlus whispered to himself, as an excited grin broke out on his wrinkled face.


    cknail didnt see, or understand either. What were these mages talking about?


    Indeed, the Purple Heart guild is known for its work on non-human vessels, Mahedium remarked.


    Why would they experiment in order to create a goblin Vessel, though? Avorlus mused.


    Why do the guilds do anything? Ive heard the Purple Hearts have an elixir for house cats! Goblin Vessels seem sanepared to that, Mahedium replied with a roll of his eyes.


    True, it was probably just some students thesis project, which turned out to be an unexpected sess. Was the goblin the only thing of interest from the caravan? the older mage asked.


    No, when she raided the caravan Herad captured some other wares that I believe were also their work. She didnt think much of them and neither did any of her buyers, so they were still sitting around her base camp when I joined, Mahedium remarked.


    You have them, here? the older gentleman asked with eyes that shone with hunger.


    Of course, naturally I collected everything that even hinted at magic when I joined. At the time though, couldnt figure out what any of it was, so I dismissed it as useless. With your help though, and knowing that one of the samples is probably an Elixir for cknail the younger mage exined.


    Reverse engineering an Elixir is not an easy task. The Elixir itself is far more than the sum of its parts; once the mage blood is added it bes active, and ispletely transformed, Avorlus exined.


    In the same way a crystal is grown from a mineral base and mages blood, Mahediummented.


    cknail frowned in frustration as he realized what the mages had just said. You needed mage blood to make Elixirs. That ruined his n to find out how to make it for himself, and not be reliant on Mahedium for his magic.


    Youre asking for time tested knowledge, in exchange for nothing but possibilities, their bearded host said.


    True, but Im only asking for very basic knowledge that costs you nothing. If youre nearly as good an alchemist as you seem to be you, then you should be able to reverse engineer the Purple Hearts work. Think about what you would get from that, cutting edge guild research. A brand new unknown Elixir, Mahedium countered.


    cknail grinned as an idea urred to him. Scamp was a mage right? He could just use his blood! The little troublemaker undoubtedly had more blood than he was using anyway.


    Youre ying me like a flute, Avorlus told the other mage with a dramatic sigh.


    Were simply engaging in an exchange. Youre losing nothing, the other mage replied with a smile.


    Well see. I agree to both of the deals. Id like to start as soon as possible. Come back tomorrow morning, and Ill have ab set up, their host told Mahedium.


    The other mage nodded, stood up, and then extended a hand. The two men shook, and then after a few brief words one of the guards escorted them out.


    They had no more trouble from their hosts on the way out. That was good because Avorlus smoke crystal had apparently ended up in cknails pocket. cknail wasnt sure how; it wasnt like he wanted the smelly thing.


    As cknail and Mahedium walked back down the pathway that led to the iron gate and off the property, the hobgoblin considered what had just happened.


    cknail led the way towards the house where Herad was waiting. Just in case things had gone badly she had brought some men and they were waiting nearby. As they moved onto a deserted street, the hobgoblin heard several people step out of an alley onto the road behind them.


    He turned around to get a look at them and saw that they were thugs, like those that could be found all over Daggerpoint. This was the Central District though, and groups of a dozen men such as them were very rare here. cknail was too paranoid to think they presence was just a coincidence.


    Then one of the men raised a crossbow, and cknails eyes went wide in rm. He tackled Mahedium and threw both the mage and himself to the ground, just as a crossbow bolt zoomed past them. They hit the cobblestones hard, and Mahedium grunted in surprise in pain.


    Whats going on? the mage wheezed.


    Enemies, and a crossbow! cknail hissed angrily, as he scrambled back to his feet. He didnt like being ambushed. That was his thing; he did the ambushing, not the other way around!


    The man with the crossbow began to load it again, and hispanions drew their own weapons and rushed towards cknail and Mahedium. The hobgoblin immediately began looking for somewhere to run. There was no way he could fight so many humans. He would also probably have to leave Mahedium behind


    As cknail was nning his escape, Mahedium pushed himself up onto his knees. Then the mage leveled his staff at the armed thugs racing towards him. The crystal at the end glowed orange, and its power exploded out.


    The thugs between Mahedium and the crossbowman were knocked backwards and caught fire. The crossbowman himself was instantly set aze. Several of the attackers died instantly, but they were the lucky ones. Screams of pain filled the air as some of the other ming thugs began iling around in pain and panic. The smell of roasting meat filled the corpse littered street.


    The remaining unharmed attackers stopped and looked stunned, before deciding to make a run for it. They all quickly dashed out of sight. They didnt want to risk meeting the same fate as theirpanions. Mahedium was looking at the destruction he had wrought with a satisfied look on his face.


    The question is whether these were Wericks men, or if Avorlus sent them, the mage mused aloud.


    Thinkter! We need to go, now! cknail hissed.


    He heard yelling off in the distance. He was pretty sure it was the Governors mening to investigate the disturbance. Quickly, the hobgoblin grabbed Mahedium and began dragging the mage towards Herad and the rest of the band.


    Mahedium had surprised him. He was far more clever and dangerous than he usually pretended to be. He acted so clueless sometimes that it was easy to forget all the power he had at his fingertips.


    cknail wondered if the man was hiding his real self, or if he had simply risen to the asion. Regardless, the hobgoblin nned to keep an eye on him. If only to make sure they never became enemies, and so he could find out the mans weaknesses if they ever did.


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 Interlude: Depths of Despair

    Interlude: Depths of Despair


    The leafy branch shifted as he pushed it out of the way, and the mans efforts were rewarded by the sight of his destination. Up ahead, through several paces of thick forest, stood the im marker. It was little more than a post with a long piece of red cloth tied to it, but it did its job.


    Beside the marker he would find the cave theyd discoveredst month. He could still remember it like it had been yesterday. While out surveying the hills, he and his partner and had stumbled across the opening. After a brief debate they had risked a brief foray inside, and they hadnt been disappointed by what theyd found within.


    Stop standing there and blocking the way, Elred! There are people behind you, and they dont want to stand in the middle of the woods just so you can take in the scenery, a deep voice said from behind him.


    Elred sighed in annoyance, but started walking forward again. When he had stepped out from beneath the forest canopy and into the sun he turned around, and watched the rest of his party emerge from the trees.


    Why didnt you take the lead if youre in such a hurry, Desleth? he asked his partner.


    Because if someone was going to walk into a mimic or a troll I didnt want it to be me, Desleth replied with a chuckle.


    Elred rolled his eyes in annoyance. He had been partnered with Desleth for over a decade, and the mans sense of humor was still as annoying as ever.


    I scouted this path just a few minutes ago. No one is in any danger of walking into a mimic, and you dont walk into trolls. You wont see one until it attacks, and then it will pick out the weakest target, their guide Katha interjected.


    Hear that Elred? That means it would definitely attack you, Desleth remarked.


    Ha ha, youre hrious, Elred replied in a distracted manner as he scanned the nearby rocks.


    Dont even joke about trolls. Mimics or goblins are one thing, but trolls are another. If you guys werent paying so well I wouldnt have left Coroulis, one of the miners added, as he walked out of the woods and into the clearing.


    Soon everyone had gathered in the rocky clearing around the im marker. A huge pile of stones dominated the middle of the forest clearing. Tall trees and thick greenery surrounded them on every side, but the sky above was blue and clear.


    There were around a dozen people in their group, and seven pack mules. As Elred watched, everyone began settling down. Packs were discarded, and animals were tied up.


    Most of them were handpicked men from the Surveyors Guild. That meant they had all signed a contract that acknowledged this im belonged to Elred and his partner. Guild men were expensive, but they were worth it because using them prevented im jumping and theft.


    Katha was their guide, and was holding up the rear of the group. She was an average sized woman with a lean hard cast to her features, and long brown hair that was tied back in a ponytail.


    Elred and his partner had debated hiring her, since she wasnt strictly necessary to find the im. In the end, Elred had convinced his partner that they could afford her and an expert on the forest would make the trip much safer. Having her around had certainly reassured him. Running into a troll was unlikely this close to civilization, but not impossible.


    Thest member of their party was a mage from the Earth Breakers. The mage guild had a deal with the surveyors, and was informed every time a new cavern system was discovered. The mages name was Seraj, and he was apparently a specialist in exploring the Dark Paths.


    The man seemed agreeable enough, and would probably end up being useful. Elred hoped the mage ended up disappointed with their trip, though. The only reason he was here was to search for crystals, and if he found any it would make their trip a lot more dangerous. Mining in caves that possibly connected to the Dark Paths was bad enough, while mining near crystals was almost suicide.


    We may as well set up here, Desleth remarked, as he started unpacking his bag.


    The group of miners then spent the next hour helping set up their camp. When they were done Elred called a meeting, and they began discussing exploring the cave.


    Ill be staying up here. You hired me to guide you through forest, not underground, Katha told them.


    Ohe on! Its not really any more dangerous down there than in the forest, Desleth eximed in exasperation.


    The forest is my home, the Deeps arent, she replied.


    Desleth looked like he wanted to argue, but Eldred cut him off.


    Thats fine, Katha. Its a good idea to have someone patrolling the woods, anyway. Just make sure nothing dangerous wanders into camp, he told her.


    She gave a brief nod and then turned away. Desleth was scowling, but Eldeth ignored him. There was no point in forcing Katha to enter the cave with them.


    Lanterns and rope were then taken out and passed around. Last but hardly least, most of the party armed themselves with hooked spears. They were the weapon of choice for fighting underground.


    Hidden among the rocks behind the marker was a crack in the earth. The miners approached the opening and gazed down into it. It wasnt that deep. You could jump down to the bottom and easily climb out, even if the tight walls and rocky bottom made that a stupid idea.


    On the far side of the pit was the actual entrance to the cave though. It was a dark crack in the wall that led deeper under the earth.


    From where Elred was standing it didnt look like there had been a copse or anything, not that hed expected there to have been one. A quick look around also failed to turn up any signs of bears or other unwanted wildlife.


    The first thing well have to do is fix up this entrance; Its much too hard to get in and out of the crack, Desleth remarked as he stared down into the chasm.


    Well throw some dirt down there to make a ramp, and maybe widen the cave mouth. First lets get this initial sweep over with, Elred responded.


    His partner nodded and then climbed down into the chasm. When he reached the bottom a few secondster, one of the men threw him antern. Desleth lit it, and then one by one the group started down after him.


    As Elred jumped down, his partner stepped into the cave mouth and out of sight. It was a tight fit in the chasm, the rocky walls pressed into Elred from both sides. Rocks scrapped against him as he pushed forward after his partner and the rest of their group.


    As he stepped into the rocky maw the light of the sun vanished and everything grew dark. All he could see was the flickeringntern lights ahead of him, and the shes of light they cast on the cavern walls.


    When his vision had adjusted Elred was greeted by the sight of a twisting rock corridor. By the light of thenterns the grey walls of the cave seemed to have a reddish cast to them. The sound of water dripping could be heard echoing from further in, and the air was moist and warm.


    The rest of his party was strung out in front of him, and at the very front was Desleth with antern. He was standing beside the mage, and seemed to be conversing with him. After a few seconds Seraj nodded and pulled out antern of his own. This one however wasn''t full of oil, but held a crystal instead.


    It red to life, and the cave was suddenly illuminated by steady bright white light. Desleth smiled and snuffed out his ownntern. The cavern looked very different now. The crystal light was much brighter, and made everything look paler instead of red. It also didnt create any smoke, which was definitely a good thing.


    The party resumed moving forward at a slow pace. The prize was still a bit further in, and Elred was excited toy his eyes on it again, but he also didnt want to die. Moving quickly while underground was a good way to get yourself killed.


    Feeling impatient, Elred moved his way up the line and next to his partner and the mage. They had both stopped walking, and were scanning the shadows between the stgmites that hung from the ceiling. Desleth then turned around and addressed one of the men behind him.


    Pass me your spear, please, he told the miner.


    Immediately, the mans spear was tossed up to Desleth, who caught it out of the air. He then aimed it upwards at the ceiling. A secondter he stabbed at something behind one of the stgmites, and there was a hissing noise.


    When Desleths partner withdrew the spear there was a wriggling form impaled on the tip. Tentacles waved madly through the air and the thing flopped around uselessly for a few seconds, before going limp. The creature looked like arge grey octopus, but with a thick wing-like membrane stretching between all its limbs.


    I see youve killed our expeditions first stone strangler, Elred remarked, as he joined the mage and his partner.


    Its just a small one; barely an adult, see, Desleth responded as he swung the spear towards Elred.


    Hey, watch it! Elred eximed as the spear tip and the dead creature were shoved towards his face.


    Dont worry; its very dead, his partner said with a humorous grin.


    Ya, but you could still take my eye out with that thing, Elred replied, as he pushed the spear away and frowned in annoyance.


    Some of the miners theyd hired were giving the stone strangler nervous looks. So of course, Desleth waved the corpse in their direction.


    Its just a stone strangler. Its only really dangerous if itnds on your head and suffocates you to death, before someone else can cut it off of you, he told them.


    Seraj turned towards Desleth. He had an un-amused look on his face.


    Youre right; there are much worse things down here in the depths than stone stranglers. So, lets not let it distract us from other threats. We need to stay focused, the mage told them.


    Good luck with that, because theres the first of the gold, Desleth replied smugly as he pointed deeper down into the cavern.


    Instantly, everyone went silent and looked that way. They all peered past each other expectantly. The only one that was looking was Elred. He could have sworn hed heard something move behind him, but he didnt see anything there among the rocks and shadows. It was probably just water


    Seraj held hisntern up, and golden veins suddenly shone brightly across the cavern wall, and formed intricate mesmerizing patterns. It was beautiful.


    Thank the gods, someone mumbled.


    Everyone now had stupid grins on their faces. The only person who didnt seem particrly happy was the mage. In fact he was scowling in displeasure.


    Alright thats enough. Its not going anywhere. We need to continue scouting down this passage before anyone can get to mining. If it leads down into the Dark Paths I might have to seal it, Seraj told them all.


    And we need to see if theres any more gold down there as well, Desleth added with a mischievous grin.


    After everyones fascination with the gold had worn off, they reluctantly moved on and continued on deeper into the cave. Soon, they reached the deepest reaches that Elred and Desleth had entered.


    When they had first scouted the passage it had been bare and mostly empty of anything but rock. That wasnt the case anymore. Piles of dirty around the ce, and mushrooms were growing from them.


    No wonder there was a strangler so close to the entrance, while we were gone harvesters have moved in, Elred remarked.


    The air was heavy with moisture here, and smelled slightly ofpost. It wasnt a terrible smell, but it wasnt a good one either.


    Ya, thats not good, Desleth added as he looked around.


    Theyre just harvesters. The bugs arepletely harmless, one of the miners said.


    They might bepletely harmless, but not all the things thate to eat their mushrooms are, and the things thate to eat those things certainly arent, Elred exined.


    Seraj nodded in agreement as he raised his crystalntern up over his head, and scanned the surroundings. The light glinted off the shell of the asional harvester that was busy working among the mushrooms, or that had taken flight.


    Them being here makes it far more likely that this cave leads to the Dark paths as well. Lets hope the passage is small and easy to seal, the mage added.


    One of the miners approached one of the harvester mounds and was studying it. Suddenly, he yelped and fell backwards. The soil in front of him roiled and a small thin crab-like creature unburied itself, and swiftly scuttled away.


    Its just a lurker. Theyre harmless unless youre a rodent, Elred said in relief.


    Several of the other miners chuckled at their fallenpanion, whose face had turned red in embarrassment. Seraj threw them all a disapproving re and they grew quiet.


    The mage then started walking forward again, so everyone reluctantly followed him. The twisting passages they moved through continued to be full of harvesters and their mounds. Twice they had to stop to spear stone stranglers that lurked up in the shadows of the uneven ceiling.


    They didnt however find any more gold, much to Desleths disappointment. Elred was fine with that though. There was more than enough of the stuff near the entrance to set them up for life, if they managed to get it home.


    How much longer are we going to explore? he asked the mage. Because this is just more of the same; rocky stone passages full of dirt mushrooms and bugs.


    It looks like the way forward widens significantly up ahead. Well see whats there, and then decide, the mage replied as he continued walking.


    Elred sighed, and shared a knowing look with Desleth. The bloody mage was probably looking for trouble, and hoping to find some signs of crystals. Everyone else was happy with the gold, but apparently not Seraj. Elred really hoped the mage didnt find anything up ahead.


    The sound of dripping water grew stronger as they moved carefully forward, until Elred realized why. The natural chamber up ahead of them was much wider than the passage theyd juste from, and in the centery a pond sized pool of crystal clear water.


    Long stgmites reached down from the roof. Several of them reached all the way down to the ground, and formed smooth stone pirs. Just with a quick nce around Elred was able to see at least two side passages that led deeper underground, and probably to the Dark Paths.


    The entire chamber echoed with the hypnotic sound ofpping water, and falling droplets. The only other noise was the rasping breath of the newly arrived men.


    The floor of the chamber was several feet below them, and its smoothyered surface had obviously been worn down by water over countless ages.


    Well, isnt that something, Desleth remarked with a hint of awe in his voice.


    I wonder if any other human has ever set his eyes on this before, Elred mused aloud.


    Seraj just grunted in reply. He then raised hisntern high and it red brighter than ever. The white light burned the shadows from the chamber ahead of them, and revealed its hidden contents. Tall bumps scattered across the floor that Elred had taken to be rocks or natural formations were actually alive.


    There were dozens of the creatures, and each one of them was the size of arge dog. The light seemed to startle them because the closest ones started moving. Six long legs stuck out from a body that resembled a gigantic insect or crab.


    Their grey shells were curved and spiky in a way that helped them camouge with the stone. Two huge wicked looking pincers extended out from the front of the beasts.


    Cave crabs, theyre nasty if you get close to them, but not man eaters. Unless youre already dead, that is, Elred said.


    Ya, this looks like the perfect ce to seal the tunnel. Its a shame though, that we wont be able to see this ever again, Desleth remarked.


    Elred was just about to reply when he noticed Seraj was staring intently at the center of the chamber, and the pool of water there. He followed the mages gaze and didnt see anything at first, but then the water rippled ominously. Somethingrge and pale glided through it.


    What is it? Elred asked the mage nervously.


    Seraj didnt reply; he just watched the pool. The other members of the party began to mutter amongst themselves in rm.


    Then a massive white creature dragged itself out of the water. It was long, longer than a man was tall, even if you didnt include the tail it was dragging behind it. Its skin was practically transparent it was so pale, and veins could be seen running beneath it.


    It was a huge smander. It crawled cross the cavern floor on four short legs, but it moved smoothly and with grace. Its long snout was pointed in their direction, and it was clearly headed their way.


    Its tongue flickered in and out of its mouth, which opened to reveal row upon rows of tiny razor sharp teeth. A pair of gills ran along the side of its neck, but the most startling thing about it was its eyes. It didnt have any. Its skull waspletely smooth where they should have been, and yet it was swiftly and unerringly racing towards them.


    Okay thats dangerous. Ive never seen one of those, Desleth remarked nervously.


    Its a blind hunter, and yes its very dangerous. This one shouldnt be too much of a problem though. Creatures such as it are at their most dangerous when you dont see theming, Seraj remarked.


    The mage then passed Desleth his light, and raised his staff. He aimed the end of it towards the smander that was stalking towards them. A secondter the air rippled and a bolt of force shot out towards the blind hunter.


    The magical attack missed the smander, but mmed into the ground beside it. Bits of rock flew through the air, and a loud cracking sound reverberated through the cavern. The attacking smander was thrown off its feet and sent flying into a nearby stone pir, as a wave of air washed over the watchers.


    The noise startled the cave crabs, and they began running for shelter. Several dashed into the water and disappeared, while others hid among the rocks. The smander itselfy prone and unmoving.


    See, as long as you dont let them sneak up on you theyre not a real problem, the mage told the others as he grinned smugly.


    That was when Elred heard a scuttling sound on the rocks below them. His first thought was that the noise was probably a cave crab. He leaned over the ledge at his feet to check.


    A ratherrge cave crab was climbing up the rocks, and headed in their direction. He sighed with relief, when he realized that it wasnt anything worse.


    Wait... The cave crab was ratherrge; it probably weighed as much a man, and it had an odd purplish tint to its carapace. In fact, it kind of looked like it had bits of crystal growing on it...


    Shit, mutant crab, Elred yelled in panic as he backed away.


    Get back, all of you, Seraj yelled as he stepped forward.


    He almost seemed excited at the presence of the mutant. Fucking mages, and their obsession with crystals!


    No one needed to be told twice. The miners and their two employers hurried back into the passage behind them. The mage himself took a few steps back. He then waited for the monster to pull itself up over the ledge, so he could get a clear shot with his staff.


    Just as the creature reached the top it lunged at Seraj, and he fired his staff. The bolt of force hit the mutant head on. It seemed to hang in the air for a second, with its ws extended and its legs dangling below it, until the moment ended and the creature ruptured.


    Purple mes burst out from its crumbling shell and washed over the mage. Seraj had no time to protect himself. There was a brief scream before he vanished behind the curtain of fire.


    The cave rumbled and bits of rock fell around them. Elred looked up in rm. The cave was copsing!


    Run! Desleth yelled as he took off towards safety.


    Everyone else was right behind him. Luckily, Desleth still had the magesntern and it lit their way. They all ran madly towards the exit as the mes and falling rocks chased them. The sound of shifting stone was overpowering now, and the air was hot and dry. One of the men beside Elred tripped and fell. No one had any time to help him, or even look back.


    Up ahead the exit came into sight, and daylight streamed through the opening. The rumbling behind them seemed to have stopped, but everyone was still too terrified to stop running. They couldnt all fit through the entrance at the same time though, so Elred slowed.


    Desleth had already reached the exit, but hed also stopped there and was lighting the way for the others. As the men in front of him fought to get outside, Elred addressed his partner.


    Lets get the hells out of here, he said.


    Desleth nodded in agreement.


    We cane backter and see if the cavern is stable. Hopefully, that gods cursed explosion sealed that chamber and its safe now, he replied.


    Elred coughed as he inhaled dust that had been thrown into the air by the explosion, and then hurried through the now empty opening. Once outside he took a second to bask in the bright sunlight and fresh air. The sound of leaves blowing in the wind could be heard in the distance. Relief washed through him; hed had more than enough of caves for a while.


    As he pulled himself up out of the chasm he looked around and rxed. His muscles were tight and sore from all the frantic activity. Where were the other men, though? Theyd been right in front of him


    There was the slightest whisper of sound from behind him, but before he could turn around his head was thrown forward as something smashed into it from behind. Elred gasped in pain as he staggered, and then copsed limply onto the ground.


    Confused but still lucid, he tried to move but couldnt d manage more than a loose flop. Something grabbed his ankles and began to drag him out of sight behind a rock. To his horror a pile of bodiesy there. All the miners had been ambushed as theyd rushed out of the cave and climbed out of the chasm, just like him.


    Even Kathas bodyy there, and it wasnt a pretty sight. Most her clothes had been ripped off and the flesh underneath had been mutted. Elred felt a wave of horror and despair wash over him at the sight. What the hell had done all this? Why couldnt he move?


    As he struggled desperately to ovee his paralysis, he was suddenly released. A pair of green feet then descended and filled his vision. They were quickly followed by the leering face of a yellow eyed hobgoblin, as it leaned over him.


    It grinned wickedly as it reached over him with one of its wed hands. Elred couldnt even scream as it ripped out his eyes, just choke and squirm mutely.


    Elred, whered you go? Desleths voice rang out.


    It was thest thing Elred ever heard.

 Journal Entry: Crystals and Mutations

    Journal Entry: Crystals and Mutations


    Ancient legend says that the god of darkness Cor-Dius bears an old grudge against the god of light Hel-Lustra. Some believe that this hate is so strong that it oozes forth from the earth and takes on physical form as mana crystals.


    Such tales are nothing but silly superstition of course, but this one does perhaps urately portray how dangerous and vile mana crystals can be. They are the scourge of human civilization all across the world. No matter where you travel you cannot escape the lingering threat of these deadly formations.


    The mostmon type of crystal is rarely even identified as such. It is a ck oily looking growth that is usually mistaken for rock, hence its name ckstone. Luckily, this basic form of mana is inert and has no magical effects; it simply grows and spreads deep within the dark corners of the earth.


    As it expands, ckstone consumes the dirt and rock around itself to create long twisting tunnels. Eventually, ckstone growths will run their course and old crystal formations will dissolve, leaving nothing but rock behind. This is how significant portions of the Dark Paths were probably created.


    Unfortunately, that is not all ckstone does. As it expands the crystals will asionally consume something that causes what ismonly known as a mana stone to form. These crystals are bright and asionally even glow, which makes them hard to miss. Theye in many different colors, shapes, and sizes, but the important part is the magic that lies within them.


    Every mana stone has a unique magical effect that a mage can produce by using their mage gift to burn the crystal. While many are useless or even dangerous to users, some are extremely powerful and useful.


    These stone are the foundation of a mage''s power, and all the stones created by the guilds are copies or offshoots of naturally formed mana crystals. This makes such stones incredibly valuable to mages, and thus treasures of great value. Many a life has been lost searching for such stones.


    The Dark Paths are of course extremely dangerous themselves, but crystal formations make them even more deadly. For once you have ckstone and mana crystals forming you will also start to see mutation.


    Exposure to mana crystals sometimes causes the crystals to take root within living things. The process transforms an animal and creates a mutant. Such creatures are not only unnaturally strong,rge, and swift, but the mana within them can actually imbue them with magical powers.


    These horrors are the stuff of nightmares, and a gue upon all human civilization. As crystal caves grow they can breach the surface, and deposit their vile contents upon it. Thus, what was once considered safe civilizednd can suddenly be wild and dangerous, as mutant abominations run wild across it.


    Stories abound of such beasts, such as those of hard working farmers being in by rats the size of dogs that can pass through walls or drive men mad with their whispers. Only, by removing the mana stones and sealing the tunnel can the nearbynds be made safe again.


    Some of the creatures that dwell within crystal caves have no obvious earthly origin, but instead seemed formedpletely of the crystals themselves. Slimes are the best known of these, but rumors persist of hulking creatures made of ckstone that dwell within the deepest parts of crystal caves.


    The magic derived from crystal caves is useful, but personally I do not believe it makes up for the threat such formations pose to humanity. They are just far too dangerous and unpredictable; you never know where one will appear, or what will crawl out of it.


    Monsters of legend such as the Breshura Cyclops or the Wurm of Terringale were probably mutants as well, and the stories passed own about these monsters puts those of any modern mutant to shame. These creatures leveled cities and cast down empires. One day, I fear that something truly horrendous will again be born within the depths of these horrid ces, and then all of humanity will weep and know the face of fear


    -Farstidiuous Der Lanmount, Royal Gervaien Surveyor.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 1

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 1


    cknail yawned luxuriously as he slowly stretched out his long slender body. His movements caused the sheets beneath him to rub pleasantly against his skin. He then smiled contentedly as he sank into the soft fluffy mattress.


    He was really enjoying having a bed of his own. Hed never had one before, only a nket to curl up onto. This was much nicer, and bouncier.


    As heid there his stomach grumbled slightly, which raised a dilemma. Should he get up and grab some food, or try and get back to sleep? On one hand the food here was very tasty, but on the other hand the bed was amazingly soft. It was thus a difficult choice to make.


    Sloth eventually overcame gluttony, and the decision was made for cknail. The hobgoblin fell back to sleep before he could make up his mind.


    When he next awoke, red tinted sunlight was leaking into the room from behind the curtains that blocked the window. cknail gazedzily at it and yawned deeply again, before grinning happily to himself.


    It wasnt just the bed that was his, the entire room was! Herad had given him it, and it was just down the hall from hers. Most the other bandits had roommates, but he had his room all to himself. cknail had been told this was because he was special, which probably meant he was Herads favorite.


    Having his own space was definitely a good thing; humans tended to smell funny, so he didnt want to share a room with one. Unlike his master, most of them didnt even try to hide their weird human scent. Saeter usually smelled strongly of herbs, soil, and the forest.


    Judging by the amount of light that wasing in through the curtains it was around noon now. cknail rarely got out of bed this early in the morning anymore. Mostly, he just lounged around inside until he got hungry, or it got dark, or both.


    He still did a lot of training; he just did it in the afternoon, when it was harder for people see. Herad wanted to keep cknails presence a secret, or at least make sure he remained mysterious. cknail understood her reasons, and even approved of them. The less people knew about him, the more they would fear him. It was a very hobgoblin way of thinking, and cknail liked being feared.


    Saeter had also originally tried to find chores for him to do as well, but had given up eventually when he hadnt found anything appropriate. The city was a much easier ce to live, and cknail liked it that way. Fewer chores meant more naps.


    After they were done training, his master had to go do his own jobs. This left cknail free to slip away and out into the city. He hadnt been told he wasnt supposed to go out, and he liked it that way, so he wasnt about to ruin it by asking for permission.


    Sleeping in his room was great, but so was the city. There were so many tasty treats out there for him to eat! It seemed like Daggerpoint contained endless different types of food for him to try.


    As the hobgoblin was contemting the contents of his next meal, he heard the sound of footsteps approaching. He sighed in irritation when he realized they were headed his way. It was unlikely to be someone bringing him food.


    A few secondster the door opened and Saeter stepped into the room. The hobgoblin gazed up at him curiously from his bed. What did his master want this early in the day?


    Saeter grunted and gave cknail an irritated scowl when he saw that the hobgoblin was still in bed.


    Get up youzy green lump. You don''t get to sleep in till sun down today, Saeter told the hobgoblin with obvious satisfaction.


    Why? muttered cknail in annoyance.


    He wanted to sleep in until sundown. It sounded like fun.


    Herad wants to see you, Saeter replied smugly.


    Why? the hobgoblin asked again, as he slowly picked himself off the bed.


    He shouldn''t keep his chieftain waiting, it would be bad for his health. Knives were funny that way.


    It''s a surprise, his master told him.


    Saeter then threw cknail his scabbard and belt. cknail caught them and started putting them on. If whatever Herad wanted required a sword then it would probably be interesting at least.


    Come on; we don''t have all day, Saeter told the hobgoblin as soon as he was finished dressing.


    cknail then followed his master out into the hallway, down a flight of stairs, and out into the yard behind Herad''s hideout. The enclosure was usually used for training, but this time as cknail walked outside he immediately noticed that Herad was standing in the middle of the yard.


    The bandit chieftain was wearing her usual ck leathers, and carrying her usual plethora of des. Her dark eyes stared out from under her short ck hair as it waved in the wind.


    Mahedium was the only other person present, and was standing off to one side. He was wearing a long grey coat today, probably because the air outside had a chilly edge to it. The sky overhead was full of grey clouds that hid the sun away.


    cknail didn''t see any sign of a single other person. Both Herad and the mage seemed excited. The hobgoblin was now very curious about what was going on, and more than a little apprehensive as well.


    Finally, you sure like making me wait, Saeter. Or, maybe youre just getting slower in your old age, Herad remarked as Saeter and the hobgoblin approached.


    I must be getting old then, how could I ever resist the attraction of yourpany? Saeter replied without an ounce of humor or disrespect in his voice.


    Herad eyed the grey haired scout carefully, and her hand dropped towards one of her daggers. cknail held his breath, but after a few seconds she rxed.


    Mahedium has something for you, cknail she told the hobgoblin.


    Now that it was safe, cknail shifted his gaze to the mage. Maybe, Herad was giving him a gift in return for his earlier present! He hoped it was edible. He still hadnt had breakfast.


    Hmm, I do indeed, the mage remarked as he stepped over.


    Mahedium then reached into one of his coat pockets and withdrew a small vial. cknail stared at it for a second and frowned. The liquid inside was light blue, and he didnt think it looked very tasty.


    Finally, after several days of research and hard work Avorlus and I managed to re-create your Elixir!


    Were almostpletely sure it will work! Mahedium told him with an excited grin.


    Oh, good cknail remarked skeptically. He was excited about getting his own magic, but hed caught that almost Mahedium had said.


    Then there was that color Elixirs were edible; or drinkable at least. What did Elixir taste like anyway? He hoped the color meant it would taste like blue berries. Wait, what had he been worrying about?


    Mahedium handed cknail the vial and gave him an expectant look.


    Just pop it open and drink the contents. You should be able to feel a difference right away since youre already a Vessel, the mage exined.


    Thank you, the hobgoblin politely replied happily.


    He couldnt wait! cknail grasped the vial and quickly twisted the top off. Soon, he would have magic of his own; hed be a magic hobgoblin! Nothing could stop him from drinking this.


    Oh, and if you suddenly develop a headache, nausea, diarrhea, break out into a rash, or start losing your hair tell me, the mage added as a side thought.


    cknail froze, and gave Mahedium a startled look. Suddenly drinking the vial didnt seem like such a great idea to him, magic or not.


    Its poison? he asked in concern, as he held the vial above his lips.


    No, all those symptoms are very unlikely. Ill be right here if anything happens, anyway, the mage replied.


    And you have cure? the hobgoblin asked in relief.


    Um, no I have some basic soothing herbs and water here though, and Im told that sometimes helps, Mahedium exined helpfully.


    What? That didnt really seem all that helpful to cknail. He looked over towards his master, but Saeter had a carefully neutral expression on his face. The hobgoblin still didnt feel like taking the Elixir


    Stop wasting my time, goblin. Drink the damned potion! Dont make mee over there and shove it down your throat, Herad ordered him with a snarl.


    cknail looked over to see her staring at him coldly. He raised the vial again. It didnt seem like he had any choice but to drink the stuff. Quickly, he gulped the liquid within down. It tasted nothing like blue berries. In fact, it tasted more like salty dirt, yuck.


    No one said anything as they all waited for something to happen, especially cknail. The hobgoblin was holding his breath while he stared at his arms, and searched for any sign of a developing rash.


    Try moving around, Saeter suggested after a few minutes.


    Tentatively, cknail began walking around. Then he jumped on the spot a few times. It didnt feel like he was about to be sick, or explode


    Ah, good. It would appear that we found the right mixture. Hes not showing any signs of rejection. Master Avorlus will be very pleased, Mahediummented proudly.


    Just as long as he keeps supplying me with Elixir. Now run around the yard a few times, cknail, Heradmanded him.


    The hobgoblin immediately began jogging around.


    Faster youzy green runt, or Ill have you dodging arrows, she yelled a few secondster.


    cknail broke out into a sprint.


    Do we have any idea what type of Elixir hes using, or if it has secondary effects? Herad then asked the mage, as she watched cknail run.


    Um no, we dont. Its impossible to say just from the recipe, not to mention it seems to be apletely new experimental mixture, Mahedium replied.


    cknail was listening carefully. Elixirs could have secondary effects? None of the Vessels hed seen had done anything special. As he ran, he began to feel an odd familiar burning sensation in his legs. The hobgoblin ignored it though, and continued to listen in on the others.


    Herad frowned as she considered the mages words.


    So we wont know what, if anything, it does until he starts breathing fire or jumping ten feet up into the air, she remarked.


    Pretty much, although most elixirs dont apparently have much in the way of secondary effects. Like your own Ressertein recipe, they mostly just grant increased physical vigor, or so Avorlus has told me, Mahedium replied.


    cknails pretty fast, but I think hes doing a fair bit better than usual, Saeter suddenly interjected.


    Herad and the mage looked over at the hobgoblin that was running around the yard. There was a small dust trail rising behind him as he moved.


    Huh ya, hes definitely a fast little beast. Its hard to tell if thats from the Elixir, though. Lets test his strength, Herad said.


    You can stop now, cknail. Come over here, Saeter yelled out to the hobgoblin.


    cknail immediately stopped and made his way back to the others. His chest rose and fell as he breathed heavily, but he wasnt feeling all that tired.


    cknaile over here and take my hand, Herad said, as she raised one arm in his direction.


    cknail had never actually touched the chief before, and the idea made him more than a little ufortable. Hopefully, it was a sign of her favor, and she wasnt about to hurt him.


    When the hobgoblin hesitated to approach Herad gave him an impatient re. cknail quickly reached out and took her hand. Immediately, Herads fingers closed tightly around his wrist and held him in ce. This didnt seem promising


    Now goblin, you have to try and pull your hand away from mine. If you cant then Im going to punch you in the face a few times, she told him dispassionately.


    cknails eyes went wide. This was definitely not good. The hobgoblin grabbed his own arm and lowered his stance as he began frantically trying to pull his hand free. His heels dug into the earth as he squirmed and fought to free himself.


    Herads fingers seemed as strong as iron though, and he couldnt get his arm loose. She scowled in annoyance at cknails futile struggling. Slowly, she then raised a clenched fist.


    The hobgoblin redoubled his efforts, and then all of sudden the burning sensation from before washed through his entire body. Fear spurred him on as he pulled desperately on his arm, and Herad moved. She kept her grip on him, but her body twisted as she kept her bnce, and her feet slid forward slightly.


    Before he could react Herad grinned, and then released him. Off bnce and in the middle of pulling, the hobgoblin was sent sprawling over backwards.


    Ouch, cheese rot, cknail hissed, as hended painfully on his ass.


    Hmm, thatst pull was definitely above normal human, or hobgoblin, strength. It seems to have worked, Herad remarked.


    A grinning cknail picked himself off the ground and jumped into the air experimentally a few times. He had super strength! He thought he was jumping a little higher than before, but nothing like ten feet. He then began breathing out as hard as he could.


    Do you have something in your throat? Saeter asked him.


    Uh no-ss, its nothing, the embarrassed hobgoblin replied, as he turned away to hide his face.


    He apparently didnt breathe fire either which was too bad, that would have been amazing!


    So now Ive got both a Vessel hobgoblin, and a reliable source of Elixir for both of us. Good work, Mahedium. Its nice to know that not all my subordinates arepletely useless, she told the mage, as he nodded respectfully back.


    An eager smile spread across Herads lips, and she turned to look towards the direction the rest of the cityy. There was a building blocking her view, but she didnt seem to care.


    cknail recognized that bloodthirsty smile. He shivered in excitement. That look meant Herad was about to start a fight, and that cknail was about to have a lot of fun!


    Not only had he finally gotten some magic of his own, but it looked like his tribe was about to go to war. This was the best day ever!


    This shifts the odds our way by a fair bit, and if I leverage this right I ought to be able mess up Wericks ns. Im done ying defense, now its time to go for their throats. Ill iste them and take my enemies out one by one. Then the chiefs that are left wont dare raise a hand against me, no matter what Werick offers them, Herad bragged.


    She then turned to cknail.


    Youve already proved that youre a half decent assassin, so Im going to unleash you. With Fang dead, my biggest enemy is Galive, so Ill be sending you after him. I want Zelena dead as well, but word is shes surrounded herself with over half the bodyguards and assassins in the city, Herad told the hobgoblin.


    cknail smiled in anticipation. Now that he was a Vessel he was sure it would be much easier to take out Herads enemies. If nothing else, he was now an even faster runner. There was no way hed get himself into trouble like thest time.


    cknail needs training before you throw him out there, or hell just get himself killed, Saeter interjected in concern.


    True, but thats easily fixed. Youve already been teaching him how to fight. Ill just have to beat all the bad habits youve taught cknail out of him, Herad remarked.


    cknails felt a sinking sensation in his stomach. This didnt sound good.


    Hell need more than just the ability to fight. Hes a natural stalker and hunter, but totally ignorant of a lot of things. Hes going to need some new equipment, and training in things like lock picking as well, Saeter countered.


    Ill let you handle that stuff; I dont have time for it. I will however show him how a true Vessel fights. Its time that cknail and I had that spar, Herad told Saeter.


    The hobgoblins eyes went wide in rm. This couldnt be happening! There was no way he could fight Herad; shed cut him into tiny little pieces. He turned to Saeter and threw him a desperate pleading look.


    cknails master was frowning, but when he noticed the hobgoblins attention he just shrugged helplessly. cknail grimaced in dismay. Hed really been hoping Saeter would save him! Herad was going to kill him


    Behind cknail, there was the sound of a de being slowly drawn from its sheath. He shuddered in dread, as he turned around to see Herad pointing her naked de towards his throat.


    Draw your sword, hobgoblin. Its time to test your mettle, she told him.


    cknail peed himself a little. He was too young and smart to die!


    Herad didnt wait for him to respond; her de sliced towards his head. The hobgoblin yelped as he ducked under the attack. He then scrambled backwards.


    You cant run, hobgoblin. Draw your sword or Ill skin you alive, you little green coward, Herad growled viciously.


    cknail considered his options. Herad was way too into this, but she probably wouldnt actually kill him if he did as he was told. If he tried to run away though


    cknail thus reluctantly unsheathed his own de and faced Herad. He even managed to keep his trembling to a minimum. The bandit chieftain immediately reacted and attacked again.


    The hobgoblin raised his de to intercept it, but then Herads de disappeared from his sight. He then reeled in shock as something smacked into the side of his head, and knocked him sideways.


    From where he was lying on the ground, cknail looked up with cloudy eyes to see Herad sneering down at him. Shed hit him with the t of her de. Out of the corner of his eye the hobgoblin saw his master wince.


    Pathetic. Were going to keep doing this until you can burn your Elixir at will, and until you know one end of a de from another. Now get up or Ill smack you again, Herad told him condescendingly.


    cknail whimpered in self pity. This was the worst day ever!


    Herad evidently heard him, because she gave him a disproving look and then attacked again. cknail''s eyes widened fearfully as her de sliced towards his face. She hadn''t even given him time to raise his own sword; there was no way he could dodge or block it!

 A Tradesman’s Tools 2

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 2


    cknail you need toe out from under there, Saeter said with obvious frustration, before continuing to grind his teeth.


    No, I dont want to, cknail whined.


    Seriously, dont make me get down there and drag you out, cknails master added.


    The goblin sniffled miserably and groaned in pain and humiliation. Herads lessons had gone on for hours! Shed beat him ck and blue, and then purple and green. It had been so much worse than even his first lesson with Saeter.


    I cant believe Im doing this, Saeter mumbled to himself.


    The old scout crossed his arms and scowled in annoyance, as he nced around the room. There was no one around to see his expression though, so a few secondster he sighed in defeat and turned back to where the hobgoblin was hiding.


    What are you doing? You cant be all that scared of Herad, Saeter asked.


    cknail stifled another whimper. Getting beaten up by the chief had crushed his ego into pulp. Why did she hate him so much? Hed thought he was the chiefs favorite! Hed killed her enemies for her and everything.


    There was no way he was ever going to show his face in public ever again. Hed just never leave this hiding spot, and slowly fade away.


    The chief hates me, and made me look bad in front of you, cknail whined in response.


    Saeter sighed again, and then looked thoughtful.


    She doesnt hate you, cknail. Thats just how Herad is. No matter how much she acts like it sometimes, she isnt a hobgoblin. She wasnt punishing you, in fact in her own weird way she was actually helping you out, he exined, while managing to keep a straight face.


    Really?  cknail asked hopefully.


    Yep, do you know how many men, er people, shes ever agreed to train personally? Saeter asked.


    No, cknail replied.


    None, which means you really are her favorite. Nowe out from under there, and Ill buy you all the meat pies you can eat, Saeter offered reluctantly.


    cknails ears perked up. Now that his master had mentioned food, the hobgoblin realized that he was hungry. He hadnt had breakfast yet, and meat pies sounded like just the thing. cknail reluctantly got up and crawled out from under his bed.


    It had been getting kind of stuffy under there anyway.


    Fine, lets go eat. I want some cheese, he told his master.


    I offered meat pies, so if you want cheese youll have to get it yourself, Saeter replied.


    Fine-ss, I know a ce I can take some from, anyway, cknail muttered.


    You know you have money, right? You could just buy some bloody cheese; you dont have to steal it, his master pointed out.


    The hobgoblin gave Saeter an uprehending look. What was this now?


    Buying means taking, doesnt it? he asked in confusion.


    No, it doesnt; buying means trading. Humans trade money for other things they want. Its why we get paid, and want coins, Saeter exined.


    That was stupid! Why would cknail give his shiny coins away, when everything he wanted was just lying around?


    Why not just pick up the things you want-ss? he asked his master.


    Saeter gave the hobgoblin a questioning look. cknail returned it.


    Because you cant steal everything you want, and its often a lot more work than just buying stuff, Saeter answered gruffly.


    Who said anything about stealing? cknail wasnt a thief. His master sure got confused sometimes. Good thing he had cknail around to help him out!


    But I like my coins. I want-ss to keep them, the hobgoblin exined.


    Ha, you dont even use them for anything! In fact, you lose half of them, Saeter replied.


    cknail hissed in annoyance. That wasnt true at all; he didnt lose them. He just put them somewhere safe and hidden, and then forgot about them Okay, he kind of lost them.


    When we get to the market Ill show you how to buy stuff. In fact, we wont being back until you purchase some stuff for yourself. Think of it as a skill Im teaching you, Saeter told him.


    Together, the two of them headed out of Heradspound and towards the market. As usual the city was bustling with life, and the streets were full of people. Merchants were calling out to customers from their colorful stalls, and their wares were piled up in front of them.


    Saeter went over to one, and after a brief exchange with its owner he walked away with several delicious smelling meat pies. He handed them to cknail, and then grimaced in disgust as the hobgoblin inhaled them down within seconds.


    Thanks, master, cknail told him, right before burping.


    Slow down, you dont need to eat so quickly, or while Im looking. Anyway, now its time for you to buy some stuff, so were going to wander around until you find something you like, he told the hobgoblin.


    cknail sighed, and tried to think up some excuse to keep his coins. He couldnt think of anything though, so he reluctantly nodded his assent. He still thought it would be much smarter to just take something no one else was using


    Wheres the cheese? he asked Saeter.


    Several minutester, after some bargaining with a confused, and more than slightly frightened, shop keeper the two of them headed back to base. As he walked cknail was twitching with anticipation and hugging a huge wheel of stinking cheese to his chest, while trying to resist the powerful urge to immediately bite into it. He wanted to taste it so bad!


    Youre so tasty and delicious. I will hide you away in my room, and eat you for days, cknail told the cheese.


    This caused Saeter to give him a concerned look.


    Youre not taking that back to your room. It would stink up the entire floor, Saeter told him.


    cknail wasnt sure why that was something people wouldin about. The cheese smelled great to him, almost like meat that had spoiled only the tinniest bit. The hobgoblin licked his lips in anticipation.


    cknail tore his gaze away from the tasty treat he was holding in order to see where he was going. As he was looking around his eyes wandered across a nearby stall, and the false faces it was selling.


    The merchant that was running the small shop didnt seem to be doing a lot of business, but the asional person stopped to take a look at his wares. His booth was covered in wooden carvings, including several of the masks that had caught the hobgoblins attention. Most intriguingly, like cknail the shopkeeper wore a long hooded cloak that concealed his features.


    cknail knew the merchant wasnt a hobgoblin though, because he wasrge even for a human. He also would have noticed the smell of another hobgoblin immediately if there was one so close by, and the idea of a one selling wooden carvings was just silly.


    However, the hobgoblin really liked the look of some of the work, so he wandered over. Most the little statues were of animals, but a few were of people going about their everyday business. cknail didnt see one of someone being mugged though, which was a prettymon part of life in Daggerpoint.


    The cloaked man looked up as cknail approached, yet remained silent as the hobgoblin examined his wares. cknail was most interested in the masks; he liked how fierce they looked. One was of a snarling wolf, and another beaked mask bore the image of a tyrant turtle. The turtle one was so life-like that cknail hesitated to pick it up; he was afraid it would bite him.


    Saeter walked up beside him and examined one of the small figures. It was perfectly crafted statue of a harpy in flight. He stared at it for a few seconds before saying anything.


    This doesnt look like normal wood to me, he whispered as he turned to look at the seller.


    You are a craftsman yourself, then? the other man asked.


    The merchants voice was smooth and clear, so much so that its uniqueness drew cknails attention. He couldnt make out any of the mans features though. His clothing concealed everything. cknail tried sniffing the air for his scent, but could only smell the wooden figurines. They reminded him of something


    I dabble in wood carving sometimes, yes. Nothing like this, though, Saeter told the man respectfully.


    cknails master was gazing at the man inquisitively, and seemed off guard. His posture was tight and his eyes were slightly wide, as if something had startled him.


    Indeed, you obviously know something of my work. I hadnt expected to find anyone here with such knowledge, the cloaked man replied slowly.


    cknail shuffled over a bit and bent down to examine another figurine. Then, when he thought no one was looking he tried to look up into the mans hood. He ended up disappointed though, because all he managed to glimpse were the edges of a wooden mask, like the ones on sale.


    The merchant turned to cknail, and the hobgoblin quickly looked away. If the other man was going to conceal his face, cknail sure wasnt going to let him see his! Wearing clothing like that was kind of rude.


    And you travel in very interestingpany, forest walker, therge robed shopkeeper said.


    Saeter stiffened, but then nodded reluctantly.


    I want a mask too. I like the turtle, cknail interjected as he waved a hand in front of the merchants face.


    This man sure was slow. The other shopkeeper had practically shoved his goods into cknails hands.


    Saeter winced at the hobgoblins behavior, and reached over to grab his shoulder. He was interrupted though, when the shop keeper stood up.


    Then you shall have one, but not of a turtle. I have something more fitting for you, he replied as he reached under his stall.


    A secondter the shopkeeper pulled out several items. First, he handed cknail a new mask that was different from the ones on disy, and then he set two long poles on the stand in front of him.


    cknail stared at the mask for a second. He wasnt sure what it was supposed to be. It most resembled a smiling human, but the proportions were all wrong. He liked it though. It was intimidating in its own way, and the mask looked like it was having fun.


    Whats it supposed to be? he asked.


    The spirit of hunger, the man exined.


    The shopkeeper than turned to Saeter and handed him the two poles. Saeters eyes widened in surprise when he got a good look at them.


    These are bow staves. I didnt think you made those, he replied in shock.


    Ignorance is the root of knowledge. Everything grows, or it dies. Remember that, the cloaked merchant replied.


    Saeter nodded and then reached into his money pouch to withdraw a gold coin, which he handed to the man. The man took it and nodded in thanks before sitting back down, and turning away from both his customers to watch his surroundings. It was clearly a dismissal, and cknail found it more than a little rude. No wonder the man had so few customers; he was kind of a jerk.


    cknail wasnt sure if he wanted this mask; he liked it, but the turtle was also pretty frightening. He reached over to pick the turtle mask up again, but Saeter grabbed his arm and pulled him away.


    Hey, Im not done buying stuff! cknail eximed.


    Youre done now; we need to get back, Saeter told him as he dragged the hobgoblin down the street.


    cknail frowned in annoyance, but followed his master.


    It didnt take them long to get back to Herads base. cknail got more than few stares from the other bandits as he carried his massive wheel of cheese inside.


    Just put the cheese in that cupboard, Saeter told the hobgoblin as they entered the main building.


    What if someone steals it? I need to hide-ss it somewhere close, were no one will look. I need to watch-ss over it always, its mine! cknail argued in concern, as he hugged it close.


    No one is going to steal it; its a huge lump of foul smelling cheese, Saeter replied in exasperation.


    Exactly! cknail eximed, as he gave one of the bandits walking past them a suspicious re.


    There was no way he was going to leave his precious treat where other people could steal it. Humans were all thieves


    Just then Khita appeared from around the corner and saw them.


    Herads looking for you two, and I wouldnt keep her waiting, she told them.


    Oh, why? Saeter asked curiously, while cknail tried to hide behind the huge snack he was carrying.


    The hobgoblin wanted to meet with Herad right now about as much as he wanted to try and swallow his sword. He shivered shamefully at the very thought of talking to her again. He still hadntpletely gotten over the humiliation of theirst meeting.


    I think she wants to train with cknail again. I cant believe hes being taught by Herad personally. Im just so jealous of him! I bet shes a much better teacher than Vorscha; all she does is tell me to do drills, Khitained bitterly.


    cknail red maliciously at Khita. She was such a foolish human; cknail would dly let her take his ce. There was no way he could face Herad right now. The very thought made him queasy and gaseous.


    Well... Saeter responded.


    He probably would have said more, but he was interrupted. There was a wet thud as arge wheel of cheese hit the floor. Saeter whirled around just in time to catch cknail before the hobgoblin could make a run for it.


    Youll be fine, except for all the bruises, he told cknail reassuringly.


    The hobgoblin didnt believe him. He whined as he tried to pull away, but Saeter kept a solid grip on him. Briefly, cknail considered cutting his own arm off, so he could escape.


    The boss is up in her room, Khita told them, as she stared in confusion at cknails response.


    Right, Saeter grunted.


    He then dragged the whimpering hobgoblin up the stairs and to Herads chamber.


    Now, dont be a bloody coward! Saeter hissed as he shoved cknail through her door.


    Herad looked up from her desk as the two of them entered. cknail smiled nervously as he fought down his panic, and Saeter gave her a respectful nod.


    Ah, I was just looking for you two, she told them, said as she looked back down and scribbled something across a piece of paper in front of her.


    Well, here we are. What do you need? Saeter responded.


    Galive has be a thorn in my side. Hes taken over a lot of Fangs gang, and is obviously under Zelenas thumb. All those men make him the biggest threat to me right now, and I would prefer not to have to fight him directly, Herad exined.


    What would you like us to do about it? Saeter asked.


    I need him dead, Herad said, before dropping her pen and looking up at them.


    Sure, cknail answered happily.


    He grinned happily at Herad, and his earlier queasiness disappeared. This was much better than another round of training. Hed rather fight the entire city than go through that again.


    Hes not ready, Saeter responded sternly.


    Oh rx, Saeter. Youre like an old mother hen fussing over its chicks. The hobgoblin can take care of himself. Its not like Im throwing him away without preparation. I wouldnt risk such a useful asset, if I didnt think he could seed, Herad said with a dangerous grin.


    Youre asking him to try and fight a Vessel with a small army of killers at his disposal, Saeter told her.


    No, Im not asking. Now lets go over the details, she responded coldly.


    cknail sighed, and took a step away from Saeter. His master really needed to stop trying to argue with the chieftain. That never worked.


    Now, I cant have my favorite assassin going out unprepared, or anyone learning his true identity. So, I had some gear prepared for you, Herad exined as she gave the hobgoblin aradely smile.


    cknail straightened up proudly at Herads words. So he was her favorite after all! He felt all giddy inside. Hed show her that he deserved such an honor.


    Herad picked up a small sack from her desk and handed it to Saeter. The old scout reached inside and withdrew a ss vial of Elixir, which he then passed to the goblin. Next, he pulled out arge roll of bandages.


    To hide his skin, its rather distinctive, Herad exined as Saeter gave it a dubious look.


    If youre worried about people figuring out hes a hobgoblin then I guess he could use the mask he just got as well, Saeter remarked.


    cknail thought that was a great idea. He reached into his cloak, and then held the wooden mask up in front of his face. Herad stared at its stretched features and the intricate patterns of lines that decorated it.


    Thats an interesting mask. Where did you get it? she asked curiously.


    I bought-ss it, with money, cknail replied cheerfully.


    Saeter hesitated before responding. He looked like he couldnt decide what to say.


    From a stall at the market, he exined after a second.


    Herad eyed him doubtfully, but chose not to pry. She turned away from the old scout and looked at cknail instead.


    Now he looks like a real assassin, and one worthy of being in my service, Herad observed with a vicious grin.


    Hes still not ready, Saeter muttered.


    Well, one of you is going to do it. So decide amongst yourselves, because I dont really care. Now get out of here, and I dont want to see either of you until the job is done, Herad told them with an annoyed scowl.


    Saeter marched out of the room. cknail followed him out.


    I want to do it, you can stay-ss here, cknail told his master as they walked through the hallway.


    Were both going to do it. Im not letting you mess this up! Saeter responded as he ground his teeth in frustration.


    That sounded like even more fun than going alone! With both of them working together, and his new but foul tasting Elixir, this job was going to be too easy! cknail grinned in anticipation, and his smile matched that of the mask exactly.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 3

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 3


    cknail and Saeter stood across the street from their target and observed the peopleing and going from it. Both of them had their hoods up, and were taking shelter from the afternoon sun within the shadows of a nearby building.


    A huge rectangr stone building rose before them. Its walls were straight and decorated with intricate carvings of people and animals. Stone pirs several times taller than a man surrounded the building. They supported a wide peaked roof, which extended past the walls. At one point it looked like there had been statues between the pirs as well, but all that remained of them now were ruins and rubble.


    Saeters arms were crossed in front of him, and he scowled in disgust as he looked it over.


    A few years ago, Galive appointed himself a priest of Cor-Dius. Ive met few people in my life less priest-like than him, even by the shadow godsx standards. Its hard to argue against a man with a small army though. Anyway, every priest needs a temple so Galivemandeered this one. Hell be in there somewhere, all we have to do is find him, the grey haired scout told the hobgoblin.


    cknail nodded sagely as he considered Saeters words. Before leaving Heradsir, the hobgoblin had donned his new and improved disguise. Under his usual hood his face was covered by the wooden mask, and his skin was wrapped in bandages that concealed its color.


    Whats a priest? he asked a few secondster with obvious confusion.


    Whenever the hobgoblin thought hed learned all the humans words, they came up with new ones. Saeter let out a frustrated sigh before responding.


    Someone who thinks they can talk to the gods, Saeter exined


    Everyone can talk to spirits. You do all the time, like after you had that fight with Red Dog, and you asked them to make a spine toad crawl up his butt, cknail pointed out.


    Um, sort of. The thing is priests think the spirits talk back to them, Saeter replied with a smile.


    Do they? the hobgoblin asked curiously.


    No, Ive yet to meet anyone who has heard the voice of a god. If the godsmunicate with us then its through the world around us. Perhaps, the rustling of the leaves in the wind are their whispers, Saeter replied seriously, as he looked up at the clear blue sky.


    So, that means that you do think the gods talk to people? cknail asked uncertainly.


    Saeter turned towards him and gave him an annoyed re.


    Shut up, youre just a hobgoblin; what do you know? the old scout growled irritably, as he absentmindedly tried to swat cknail across the side of his head,


    The hobgoblin saw iting though, and easily ducked out of the way. What had he said to annoy his master? Humans could be so confusing sometimes.


    Im morbidly curious about what your n for getting to Galive is, Saeter asked a few secondster.


    I have a great n, and its a very nice and tricky one! Im going to sneak inside his home, wait until no one else is around, and then stab him-ss a whole bunch of times. Maybe Ill wait-ss until hes asleep; humans are stupid and like to sleep in the same ce at the same time every day, cknail answered excitedly.


    Thats pretty much what I thought, Saeter grunted disdainfully.


    Its a perfect n, cknail responded irritably.


    Sure it is, lets just work on the details a little, Saeter told him sarcastically. For instance, how do you n to get in? Also, do you even know what Galive looks like?


    cknail looked back across the street at the banditsir. It was arge sprawling structure with plenty of ces to hide. A small stone wall circled around what had once been the temples grounds. cknail wouldnt have any problem scaling it, but doing so would make him very visible to any watchers.


    The center portion that used to be a temple was stone, but arge wooden addition had been constructed beside it. Only, a few parts of it had a second floor, and as a result most the windows were small and barred.


    It certainly looked to be arger challenge than Fangsir had been, and then hed known where to go. cknail had just sort of assumed it would be obvious which human was Galive, and which room belonged to him. It usually wasnt that hard to figure out. Couldnt he just go after the loudest person with the fanciest room?


    Ill go-ss in a window, cknail told Saeter hesitantly.


    Saeter snorted in disbelief and eyed the hobgoblin critically.


    Even if you managed that, how would you find Galive? You have no idea where his room is, Saeter told the hobgoblin cynically.


    It workedst time, cknail whined.


    It almost didnt, and you got lucky! Saeter sternly pointed out.


    cknail scrunched up his face as he scowled in irritation. He had so not gotten lucky; it had been all skill!


    Do you know a better way? he asked grumpily.


    I think I just might. Its like hunting; you have to know your prey, Saeter remarked, as he gave the hobgoblin a knowing nce.


    Several hourster after the sky overhead had grown darker, and evening had set in, cknail found himself following Saeter through Galives front door. They werent alone; dozens of other men and women were all around them. The rhythm and roil of many different conversations surrounded them as they walked calmly into their enemies stronghold.


    A dozen men wearing long ck cloaks stood guard around the building, one of which looked directly at the pair for a second before turning away. Saeter and cknail apparently didnt stand out.


    Look at those idiots. Thanks the gods Herad doesnt make us wear a uniform, Saeter muttered to himself as he walked.


    Torches and been ced around the yard and up the walkway that led into the old temple, and their wavering orange light threw back the darkness of the night. cknail didnt like it; he preferred the dark. With all the stone pirs around, the torches cast a host of shifting shadows that was actually harder to see through.


    Why is our prey just letting us, and all-ss these other people, just walk-ss into his home? Its so stupid! cknail asked his master uncertainly.


    The hobgoblin was very confused; was this bandit chieftain suicidal, or was this a trap? It sort of seemed like a trap to him.


    Like I said, Galive thinks hes a priest. And whats a priest without a congregation?


    I dunno, whats a congregation? cknail whispered back nervously.


    Saeter snorted in amusement before responding.


    In this case, its a big party. Galive throws a feast every week. Supposedly its in Cor-Dius honor, but really its just so he can show off, Saeter told the hobgoblin with obvious disapproval.


    Oh! cknail replied excitedly. A feast meant that there would be food!


    The pair made their way through the crowd that was entering the building, and then down a wide stone hallway. cknail froze as the guards gave them a brief look over, but after seeing that the pair had no obvious weapons they waved them through. A few secondster Saeter and cknail walked into a huge round chamber.


    Crude wooden tables and benches filled the center of the floor, and a long counter ran along the far wall. A lot of humans were sitting down, or moving about the room. Quite a few of them were also crowded around the counter to get drinks.


    Long simple ck tapestries and quite a fewmps hung from the walls, and a raised tform stood in along another of the walls. More ck tapestries hung around the stage, and arge bronze statue stood at the back of it. The statue was of a man in a hood, and he was holding a dagger in one hand and a ming brazier in the other.


    cknails eyes were wide open in surprise as he looked around. The room was actually quite impressive. It didnt even seem like the inside of a building to him, but more like arge cave.


    He wanted one of his own just like it, except hed rece the statue with an even bigger one of himself! If he killed Galive would Herad let him keep this one? Would the statue look better with him holding a sword or Galives severed head?


    Saeter saw cknail staring off into the distance, and whacked him across the back of the head to get his attention.


    Just stay close to me and dont make a scene. For now we just have to wait, Saeter told cknail, as they pushed their way towards a rtively empty corner of the room.


    Up against the wall was an unused wooden bench. Saeter took a seat along its length, as far from anyone else as possible, and cknail sat down beside him. The old scout then leaned forward and scanned the throng of people around them.


    Well just stay here until Galive shows himself Saeter told cknail, or he would have if the hobgoblin had still been there.


    cknail had smelled something delicious, and wandered off to find it.


    Bloody damnation, the hobgoblin heard Saeter swear, as he slipped through the crowds and out of sight of his master.


    cknails stomach was grumbling and there was no way he was going to pass up an opportunity to fill it. Besides, there was really no reason for him to stay there, and hed get back to his master in just a few minutes anyway.


    As he weaved through the crowds, the hobgoblin observed the people around him. He made sure to avoid walking into the direct line of sight of anyone who looked threatening, and he also kept an eye out for conveniently unattended food.


    Almost all the humans had drinks, but most of the ones with food were sitting down. cknail wanted nothing to do with the crazy human liquid that made them even crazier, but he definitely wanted something to eat. It would be hard to sneak food from the people sitting down though; they were kind of eating it


    He also couldnt take food from the people walking around with it. It was busy enough in the hall that people were watching where they were going, and making sure they didnt drop their food if they bumped into someone.


    So cknail decided to head towards the smell of cooking meat, that was where the freshest morsels would be anyway. After sniffing and looking around for a few seconds, he noticed that most the humans were getting their food from a man behind a counter. cknail headed that way.


    How would he get the food, though? It seemed to be kept out of sight until someone arrived to take it. The other men behind the counter were probably making it


    After giving it some thought, cknail decided to simply wander over to the counter, and loiter around until an opportunity presented itself. The drooling hobgoblin thus casually walked over to it and leaned against the counter in a totally unremarkable manner.


    Now he just had to wait, and the tasty smelling meat would be his. Yep, he was just another human doing stupid human things. There was absolutely no reason to look his way!


    Much to the hobgoblins rm his n almost immediately went wrong. The man behind the counter noticed his approach and turned his way. He gave cknail a frown as he looked him over.


    Well? the man grunted.


    cknail flinched and panicked at the unexpected question. What had he done wrong, and what did the human want? He didnt understand!


    Im human, he blurted out, before cringing at his own stupidity.


    What? Its three copper for chicken and bread, and its four for pork. Ale is extra. What do you want? the bearded man asked cknail.


    The hobgoblin stared nkly at the speaker in surprise. Right he could just buy the food. That made things simpler.


    Chicken, cknail responded, as he leaned back and attempted to look calm and collected.


    A few secondster the te of food was ced in front of him, and cknail gave the nice man three coppers. It wasnt his money though; hed somehow acquired it from someones pocket on the way over.


    The roast chicken smelled so nice, and its flesh looked soft and juicy. cknail wanted to start eating it right away, but he couldnt until he took off his mask. With a frustrated sigh he wandered back over to where Saeter was sitting.


    Where in all the hells have you been, and whered you get the grub? Saeter asked angrily as the hobgoblin approached.


    I bought some food, I was hungry, and I stayed out of trouble, cknail replied smugly, as he took off his mask and chewed a bird leg.


    Saeter stared at him for a few seconds; he didnt seem to know what to say.


    Bah, whatever. Just dont wander off again. We have a mission, he told the hobgoblin.


    I have food now-ss anyway, cknail replied without concern.


    You sure have been getting uppitytely. Remind me to schedule you more sword practice, Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    cknail opened his mouth to reply, but froze when the atmosphere around him suddenly changed. The formerly loud and wild sounding room had grownpletely quiet. The unnatural suddenness of it unnerved him, and he hissed in rm as he looked up.


    And heres the man himself; thats Galive, Saeter remarked calmly.


    The steady and sure sound of his masters voice reassured cknail somewhat. The hobgoblin swiftly found the source of the disturbance as he looked around the temple antechamber.


    Everyone was now facing the same direction and focused on the same thing. A man had walked out onto the raised stage across the room, and he was the center of attention. This new arrival was alone on the tform, but quite a few of the ck cloaked men ringed the stage and kept people away from him.


    cknail instantly knew that this had to be Galive. Not only did he have an air of authority, but the warriors were clearly protecting him.


    Herads enemy was tall, and muscled. Long ck hair fell down his back, and he was dressed in dark expensive looking clothes. Like the guards below him he also wore a long ck cloak, but his was lined with silver. He was rather simr to Herad actually, except for the friendly smile on his face.


    Wee, my fellow bandits and dwellers in darkness to this blessed festival. Tonight we gather together to worship our divine patron Cor-Dius, he who keeps watch over those who move in secret. So, feast, rejoice, and drink to your hearts content, for how better to show our appreciation than in revelry! Galive announced enthusiastically, as he raised his hands dramatically above his head.


    His voice was loud and clear as it echoed throughout the stone chamber. As soon as he was done speaking, the crowd burst out into cheers and joyousughter. Ale sshed up into the air as it escaped from peoples raised mugs. cknail grimaced in distaste at what he saw; the humans were getting that stuff everywhere


    Galive was basking in the crowds adoration, but after a few minutes he stepped down from the stage. As the guards moved to protect him, he walked over an empty table that had been set aside and took a seat.


    Immediately, a few other figures detached themselves from the crowd and moved towards him.


    Most of these people were turned away by the ck cloaked guards, but a few were let through.


    Among these was a group of three women wearing next to no clothing, and several tough looking men. Galive smiled and invited the women to sit next to him, and they were soon draped around him. The men took seats across the table from Galive and started talking amongst themselves.


    What now, master? cknail asked as he watched.


    He didnt think it would be a good idea to go after the man now. He had a lot guards around to protect him.


    Take a second to memorize his face. When they retire for the night you can go over there and catch his scent, and then you can track him to his room when things quiet down, Saeter exined.


    cknail sighed; he didnt feel much like waiting around. Normally, he would enjoy lying in wait for the perfect time to strike, but all the movement and noise in the room had him at the edge of his seat and bursting with energy. He wanted to do something now!


    I could-ss go over there and listen in. They wouldnt suspect it, since humans are-ss terrible listeners with tiny little ears, cknail remarked.


    Thats pointless. They wont be saying anything important, and youd only be drawing attention to yourself, Saeter replied.


    cknail groaned and leaned back against the wall. His master sure knew how to take all the fun out of assassination


    The hobgoblin impatiently started looking around for something interesting to watch. Mostly, all he saw was humans staggering around, shouting, and making fools of themselves. It would be so easy to stab some of them


    The minutes passed and cknail grew more and more frustrated. Eventually, with an annoyed hiss he sprung to his feet and tried to find something to do. This time though, Saeter reached out and grabbed his shoulder before he could getaway.


    Sit back down and wait, the old scout told him as he pulled the hobgoblin back onto the bench.


    cknail grunted as he sat back down. He was so bored! Why couldnt he just wander around a bit?


    Several hours passed, and they seemed like an eternity. Saeter only allowed him up to purchase more food and drinks, and even then he apanied the hobgoblin to the counter.


    Well, at least he got to eat as much as he wanted


    Eventually, the celebration started to die down, and things quieted down. Some of the noisy humans began to leave and others simply copsed onto tables, chairs, and even the floor.


    As cknail was throwing another bored look around the room, he noticed movement from his prey. The hobgoblin immediately sat up and focusedpletely on Galive; his eyes narrowed behind his mask and his ears perked up as he stared.


    The man had gotten up, and was headed for a doorway that led further into the building. He had two of the women from earlier on each of his arms, and his guards were pulling back and following him as well.


    Saeter had noticed this as well.


    Lets go, he grunted to the hobgoblin as he stood up.


    Finally! cknail smiled as he and his master walked across the room towards the now deserted table. They made their way past drunken humans, and the garbage they had left behind. Bodies and empty tankards littered the floor.


    When they reached the now deserted table cknail immediately started sniffing around. He could detect the scent of several distinct humans. So, he quickly leaned down over where Galive had been sitting and started smelling it.


    He was so engrossed in this that he didnt notice the man approach him from behind.


    What in all the hells do you two think youre doing? one of Galives guards asked them.


    The huge muscled thug had drawn his sword, and was standing behind cknail while ring suspiciously at the masked hobgoblin and his master. cknail stiffened in rm, and his hand crept towards one of his daggers.


    Out of the corner of his eye he quickly nced around the room, and noticed several other guards looking their way as well. That wasn''t good; if it came down to a fight then things were going to get messy quickly.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 4

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 4


    Before the hobgoblin could act and draw his weapon, Saeter quickly spoke up.


    A huge content smile appeared on his face as he turned towards the thug, and that kind of freaked cknail out. His master''s face just didnt look right unless he was ring or scowling.


    We were just checking to see if any of the big wigs dropped any coins. We already spent all of ours, but we still need some more drinks, Saeter muttered brokenly, as if he was drunk.


    The old scout swayed slightly as he waited for Galives minion to respond. The guard eyed them critically for a second, but then snorted in disgust.


    If you dont have any more money then get out of here. A man of your age should bloody well know better than this, the cloaked thug told Saeter, before turning around and walking away.


    When the other man was gone the smile immediately dropped from Saeters face, and a familiar scowl reappeared.


    Ya, fuck you too, he muttered as he turned back to cknail.


    Did you get it? We need to move, the old scout then asked him.


    I got it; the human Galive cant hide from me! cknail whispered excitedly.


    He doesnt need to hide, hes a bloody Vessel and an experienced fighter. In anything like a fair fight hell rip your scrawny green ass apart, Saeter growled back.


    Ill be very sneaky, the hobgoblin replied defensively.


    cknail wasnt too worried about it. Galive wouldnt be the first Vessel hed faced, and fair fights were for idiots and humans anyway.


    Youd better; dont take any foolish risks. We can always try again another night, Saeter exined.


    Yes, master. What-ss now? cknail asked.


    Now youre on your own. Im not much good at sneaking around a building like this. Find Galive and kill him. Just dont let anyone see you, especially not Galive, Saeter ordered him sternly.


    Yes, master, cknail whispered back gleefully.


    It was time for the hunt to begin, the oh so delicious hunt. cknail licked his lips and started salivating just thinking about it.


    Ill be outside across the street and a bit down the escape path we nned out, Saeter told cknail.


    The old scout then gave cknail a farewell nod, and started walking towards the front entrance. cknail watched him go for a second, before turning around and smirking at the door Galive had gone through.


    Atst, it was time to have some fun! Galive was going to regret making him sit still so long! He would also regret making Herad angry too, of course. Either one was really just a bad idea.


    Now what was the best way of tracking down his prey? cknail slowly turned and regarded the room around him. There were still a lot of random residents of Daggerpoint around, but none of them were looking his way. There were still several of the cloaked guards standing around the perimeter of the room, though.


    Two stood by the bar, two more were by the main entrance, and one was stationed by the door Galive had gone through. As cknail watched, thest guard nced his way. cknail knew that he was acting somewhat suspicious, so he casually turned around and mingled with the remains of the earlier crowds.


    He then looked around the room. There was no easy way into any of the doors that led inside; they were all guarded. Hed have to make his own way in, and that meant he needed a distraction. What would work?


    After a few more seconds of thought, cknail headed over to the table closest to the door Galive had gone through. There were two men and one woman sitting at it, and they all seemed quite drunk. The woman seemed unsteady and was leaning onto therger of the two men. cknail grinned as he walked past them. They would work perfectly.


    For his n to work he still needed another human, and none happened to be nearby. That was easily solved though; all he had to do was use a human trap. cknail nonchntly strolled up behind the people seated at the table, and ced several coins on the ground behind them. He then took a seat at a nearby table, and waited.


    Within a few minutes a human took his bait. A man from across the room noticed them, and walked over to pick them up. As he passed cknail the hobgoblin got up and quietly shadowed him.


    Just as the man was about to reach down and pick up the coins, cknail tripped him. The man grunted in surprise as he fell over and hit the woman at the table, and she screeched in rm. Immediately, herrgepanion got up and pushed the other man away.


    You little bastard, what do you think youre doing? therger man roared angrily.


    Shit, it was an ident, swore the other man as he picked himself off of the ground.


    cknail rushed over to assist him. The hobgoblin extended an arm and helped the man get up.


    Thanks, the confused man told him, as he stood up.


    You dropped this, cknail told the man as he pressed an item into the mans outstretched hand.


    So, its a fight you want, roared the bigger man as he drew a knife.


    Um, what... the smaller man replied, as he twitched in nervous surprise.


    He then looked down and noticed what he was brandishing in his hand. He was holding up a dagger of his own, the one cknail had put there. He paled slightly and opened his mouth.


    No, I the man started to say.


    He didnt have time to finish speaking; his opponent lunged towards him, and the smaller man had to defend himself. Laughter and shouts of excitement soon filled the air, as everyone else began to notice that a fight had started. A crowd soon formed.


    By this time cknail had already slipped away, and mingled into the crowd that had rapidly formed to watch the fight. The noise and mob quickly grewrge enough to attract the attention of the guards, and several rushed over, including the one that had been guarding the door.


    With a smug smile cknail broke away from the others, and walked through the now unguarded entrance while everyone was distracted. He giggled merrily to himself as he moved. It was so easy to fool humans sometimes! Why did they even bother cing sentries?


    The hallway on the other side was dark, and cknail happily scurried into the shadows. He stopped for a second to listen for signs of movement nearby. A secondter, when he was sure there was no one nearby he began to follow Galives trail.


    After a few seconds he heard someone approaching so he slipped into a side room until they had passed by. cknail was finding it very easy to stay out of sight. The temple had a lot of dark unused rooms in it for him to hide in.


    It was hard to follow Galives scent though. The bandits trail was mixed up with that of many other humans, and it had been muddled up by how many times Galive had walked these halls. It was hard to figure out which trail was the freshest.


    Thankfully, cknail didnt really need to use his nose. As he moved out of the dark hallway and into better lit areas of the temple he heard talking up ahead, and thanks to Galives rather boring speech from earlier he knew exactly what the man sounded like.


    cknail couldnt make out what was being said, but he definitely knew which direction the many in. It was just a matter of time until he found his prey. The hobgoblin stalked forward eagerly, but soon ran into a rather annoying obstacle. The room up ahead of him was brightly lit, and four of Galives cloaked henchmen were ying cards in the middle of it.


    cknail couldnt think of any way of sneaking past them, or any way to take them all out silently. He hissed in frustration and tried to think of a solution. A few momentster he heard someoneing from behind him, so he quickly slipped into another side room and out of sight.


    He waited for several moments until the person had walked past, then cknail peeked out from around the door frame. As the hobgoblin took in the sight of another dark cloak a great idea urred to him.


    cknail quickly took out his coin purse and lunged forward. Before the man could react the hobgoblin had swung his makeshift weapon and smashed him across the back of the head. The man immediately slumped and started to copse. Humans were apparently weak to coins in more than one way.


    Before the thug could hit the floor cknail caught him and dragged him into the side room, and then behind a pile of crates. The hobgoblin then imed the defeated warriors cloak for his own. It was rather nice looking, and much smoother feeling on his skin than his own.


    The grinning hobgoblin pulled the cloak on and then walked back out into the hall. When he reached the upied room up ahead he simply flipped the hood up, and kept walking. None of the men ying the game did more than casually nce his way as he walked into the room.


    cknail fingered the dagger and the sling he had up his sleeves and ready to go just in case, but he didnt need them. The humans were engrossed in their game, and cknail was soon through the far door and out of their view.


    He then stopped to listen again. A few secondster he swerved left and headed towards a staircase; the voices sounded like they wereing from up above.


    Once up there he stepped out into another hallway, and then quickly darted into a empty looking room before anyone came. The room was ratherrge but it only contained a few chairs and crates. cknail had to stifle a sneeze, as he realized there was also a lot of dust in it as well.


    The hobgoblin could feel the floorboards tremor slightly as a group of people approached, so he moved out of sight. He hid up against the wall; behind table had been flipped on its side.


    The pack of humans quickly passed, but cknail didnt move. He was now close enough to Galive that he could make out the chieftains words. In fact the man sounded like he was in the very next room.


    Listen, I appreciate the sentiment, but you cant stay in here, Galive told someone with obvious frustration.


    Zelena sent me to protect you, and thats what I n on doing. Need I remind you what happened to Fang? He also thought he was safe in his hideout, but Herads assassin got to him, the other voice exined.


    Ive done everything else you asked; I switched rooms, I doubled the guards, and Ive let you tag along, but this is my home and youre staying out of my bedroom! This is not a debate, Galive responded.


    Youre putting yourself at risk, the other man told him.


    Maybe, but how would anyone even get in here? This is the second floor, there are guards outside, and the window is too small for a man to slip through. Im far from helpless as well; Im a Vessel after all, Galive told him.


    A good assassin can get into anywhere, was the others reply.


    I guess you would know. Youre the most expensive knifeman in Daggerpoint and after all, Malthus, Galive said.


    I am the best, and thats why you should listen to me, the other man replied.


    The bandit chieftain grunted disdainfully before responding.


    I thought Zelena had bought out the entire Assassin Guild, anyway. If thats true, where did Herads knifemane from? he asked Malthus.


    Zelena has entered into such an agreement with us, but we only have a monopoly on knifemen in Daggerpoint. Herad seems to have picked her killer up from outside, the assassin exined.


    Huh, I heard shes been wandering around the countryside down south. What, did she randomlye across him in the middle of the forest? Galiveughed.


    I dont know. Ive tried to find out, but I havent had much luck. Herad is keeping him hidden, even from most of her own men. Normally, that wouldnt stop me, but I suspect someone else is covering for him as well. Some of the guild informants have gone silent recently, Malthus admitted with obvious frustration.


    Seems like Zelena is paying you guys way too much then, Galive pointed out.


    Thats not your concern. You just need to worry about yourself. This mysterious assassin doesnt even need to enter your room to kill you; he could poison your food or drink, the assassin turned bodyguard exined.


    While crouched in his hiding spot cknail smiled to himself. That was a great idea. He wondered if he could do that right now


    All my food is checked anyway. Herad is far from my only enemy. Youre wee to test it yourself though, the chieftain replied.


    The hobgoblin hissed in annoyance. Apparently, he couldnt poison the man after all. Oh well, he would remember the idea forter. He was sure it woulde in handy eventually.


    He could also use some sort of magical device, or throw a firebomb into the room, Maltheus added.


    cknail didnt have either of those, but they sure sounded cool! He was definitely going to ask for some of those when he got back.


    Thats enough of this, I gave you an order. You can stay here or guard the window from outside, its up to you. Now, Im going to go tell the girls to join me and you wont be there to watch, got it? Galivemanded the assassin sternly.


    As you wish, Ill stay here and guard the door, was the other mans reply.


    Galive then huffed and walked away. cknail didnt worry though, he knew his target would be back. The hobgoblin just made himselffortable, and prepared himself to wait for the right moment to strike.


    A few minutester he heard the sound of Galive returning, and he wasnt alone.


    Im going to show youdies a great time, the chieftain bragged as he approached his room.


    This was quickly followed by quiet chuckling and excited murmurs from the females apanying him.


    So, you think youre a great lover, eh? one of them asked.


    Of course I am. Cor-Dius is the god of things done in darkness, so as his head priest Im obviously the greatest lover in the city, if not the world, Galive bragged as he opened his door and stepped inside.


    There was more murmuring, before the door shut and blocked the noise. The assassin snorted in disgust as soon as Galive was safely out of earshot. He apparently didnt agree with the chieftains high opinion of himself.


    Just as cknail was settling back down to wait, noises began to erupt from the other side of the wall he was leaning on. He heard the creaking of a bed, followed by high pitched human squeals, and the sound of flesh pping against flesh.


    The hobgoblin groaned quietly to himself. He really didnt want to sit there and listen to humans mating. Hopefully, it would be over soon.


    However, the noises actually soon grew louder, and groans of pleasure were added to the mix. cknail stuck his tongue out in disgust as he plugged his fingers into his ears. The noises were giving him a huge headache.


    Stupid pink-ss humans, he hissed, as his imagination started supplying images to go along with the noises. The hobgoblin now had another reason to kill Galive.


    After what seemed like hours, but was probably actually much less time, the noises finally stopped and the room grew quiet. cknail heard a groan of relief from the man guarding Galives door, and nodded in agreement. He was also d they had finally stopped.


    After enough time had passed that the hobgoblin was sure his target and hispany were asleep, he put his n into motion. On the outside wall of the room there was a small cross shaped window. cknail was pretty sure it was exactly the same as the one in his targets room.


    It was too small for all but the smallest humans to fit through, but cknail thought he could slip through. Hobgoblins were very skinny, that was part of the reason they were so attractive.


    Silently, he crept over to the window and looked outside. There was a guard holding antern down in the yard below. The man seemed to be patrolling the perimeter of the temple. He was doing a terrible job of it though, which was typical for a human.


    cknail took a second to take off his new cloak and put it away; it wasfy and hed decided to keep it. He then looked out the window and observed the below guard''s routine for a few minutes. When the hobgoblin was satisfied that the man was unlikely to look up and spot him, he squeezed through the window and outside.


    It was a tight squeeze and getting his head through was ufortable, because his brain was so big, but cknail managed it. There was a small ridge on the wall outside so the hobgoblin grabbed it and began to shimmy carefully along it, and towards the window into the next room. His ws dug into the wood and gave him nice firm handholds.


    After a few minutes of climbing and mbering along the wall, cknail managed to make it across the outside wall without alerting the guard below. The hobgoblin let out a small sigh of relief when he reached his destination, and saw it was indeed the same type of window he had juste through. It would have been really awkward if it hadnt been.


    cknail carefully reached up to get a solid hold on the windowsill, and then hauled himself over to it. As he hung there and the light of the guardsmp passed below him, he carefully pulled himself up to the window opening. There was a heavy blue curtain in the way, so he gently pushed it aside.


    The hobgoblin grinned wickedly and shivered with anticipation, as he peeked inside. His prey was right there, and was sleeping defenselessly. Soon the hunt would beplete, and the sweet taste of victory would be his!


    For a second the clouds above shifted and the moon shone brightly in the sky. cknail''s thin wed shadow stretched out and into the room. Seeing this, the hobgoblin giggled and then moved eagerly in for the kill.


    :imdead: I worked hard on this bonus chapter, so pleaseratethis fiction. Just click the stars and hit submit.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 5

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 5


    There was amp on a dresser against one of the walls, and it lit the room thaty on the other side of the window. The hobgoblin that hung outside could thus see its upants just fine; all four of the humans within were lying next to each other on the big bed that dominated the room.


    cknail could clearly hear the soft sighing of their rxed breathing as they slept. His skin tingled pleasantly as he gazed upon his helpless prey, and he started to slip through the window.


    Unfortunately, hed misjudged the size of the opening slightly, and his head got momentarily stuck. After a second or two of trying to painfully squeeze his skull through the tight frame, he seeded and popped through. A soft thud echoed forth as cknail lost his bnce andnded on the floor at the base of the window.


    He froze for a moment to make sure he hadnt disturbed anyone, but the only sound he heard was the gentle breathing of slumbering humans. Feeling confident, the hobgoblin crept up to the bed.


    It wasnt that fancy of a bed, but it certainly was huge. cknail thought it could easily fit a dozen humans lying side by side. Why did this man need such a huge bed? Maybe it was some sort of human status symbol?


    cknail loomed over Galives slumbering face and smiled smugly. The bandit chieftain didnt seem so tough now! He was just prey. In fact, it would be so easy to toy with him a little before finishing him off


    The hobgoblin reached over until his hand hung over the mans sleeping face. His ws were a hairs breadth from the mans eyes when he froze. No, fooling around now would be a bad idea. It would be really messy, and would probably make a lot of noise. cknail frowned in regret, as he pulled his hand back and drew his dagger. It was best to do this quickly.


    Suddenly, Galive stirred slightly and started murmuring something. cknail panicked for a second and jumped slightly in surprise, before he realized the man was still unconscious. He was just talking in his sleep. Feeling curious, the hobgoblin leaned over to listen.


    Oh ya, thats the way. Spread that honey around, Galive whispered.


    cknail blinked in confusion. What was this now? What could this weird human possibly be talking about? Well whatever, he was here to kill Galive, not try to understand him.


    cknail stopped wasting time. He quickly grabbed the Galives long dark hair and pulled it down, as he dragged his dagger against the mans exposed throat. Blood poured from the long jagged wound and onto the sheets, as his knife bit deep into Galives flesh.


    Galives dark eyes shot open and fluttered briefly before going dead. cknail smirked as he stared intently into their confused depths. When he was sure the man was dead, he stepped quietly away. That was one less bandit chief that would be trying to take his and Herads territory, and it hadnt even been hard to get rid of him.


    cknail was just about to make his exit, when the woman to the right of Galives bloody corpse stirred in her sleep. The movement caused cknail to instantly focus on her.


    Some of Galives blood was pooling beneath the womans bare shoulders, and was staining her long blonde hair. It was also clearly disturbing her slumber.


    She stirred again and cknail realized he had to do something, before she woke up and raised the rm. He stalked back over to her, and tried toe up with a solution. He couldnt remove the blood; there was too much of it and he wasnt that thirsty. He also couldnt move woman without waking her


    With an annoyed sigh cknail leaned over her, and cut her throat too. When he was sure she was dead, and that no one else was about to wake up, he tiptoed over to the window and made his exit. He managed to make it through without getting his head stuck this time.


    As cknail crouched on the windowsill he observed the yard below him. The guard from earlier was still out there, but he was walking away from the hobgoblin. The man was just about to turn the corner of the building and disappear out of sight.


    With his mission aplished cknail was beginning to feel impatient, so he climbed down the exterior wall as far as he could and then simply dropped the rest of the way. Hended unharmed on all four limbs, and then dashed for the stone fence that encircled the temple. He hit it at full spend and then vaulted over it onto the street on the other side. With that done, hed sessfully escaped from Galivesir unharmed.


    As he raced through the dark and dirty streets of Daggerpoint towards safety and his rendezvous with Saeter, the hobgoblin giggled happily to himself. That had been too easy. The bandit chieftain had been supposed to be so tough, but he hadnt been a problem for cknail!


    That other assassin guy, Malthus, had been an idiot as well! cknail giggled again as he turned into an alley. The fool had just stood there outside the door as cknail slit the throat of the man he was supposed to be protecting! It was hrious how bad the man was at his job, or maybe cknail was just that good.


    Obviously, cknail was an amazing assassin; probably the best ever! He was like Herads fearsome unstoppable shadow killer guy! When he returned with news of Galives death there was no way Herad would beat him up ever again. In fact, she would probably tell everyone how amazing he was, and then give him some pie.


    cknail reached the corner right before his destination, so he slowed down and looked for any sign of Saeter. A brief inspection didnt reveal any traces of him, and the hobgoblin grew slightly concerned. Had something happened to him?


    Where are you, master? he muttered to himself.


    cknail began to creep around stealthily as he searched. He moved from shadow to shadow as he wandered around the area near the meeting ce. He didnt find anything, until he stumbled upon a faint scent trail.


    It led into a nearby building so cknail followed it in. All the structures in this part of the city were small and tightly packed, and this one didnt stand out. It did appear to be abandoned though; the missing front door was subtle clue.


    cknail walked into the pitch ck interior, and then headed up the stairs to the room on the second floor. He was careful not to make any noise, because he didnt know what to expect. Also, creeping around all sneaky-like was just more fun.


    When the hobgoblin got to the top of stairs he saw a dark figure looking out a window through a doorway. He froze for a second, but soon realized that it was just Saeter.


    Before he started moving again, an idea urred to him. His master didnt appear to know that cknail was here so wouldnt it be fun to surprise him!


    cknail grinned gleefully to himself. This was going to be so much fun! As he stepped through the doorway he felt something tug gently on his ankle, and then heard a faint ttering noise. He looked down to see what it was, and realized that hed stumbled over a piece of string had been tied to a pile of sticks.


    How had that gotten there? Well, hopefully it hadnt ruined his surprise.


    cknail looked back up to see something shiny. It was Saeters unsheathed sword point, and it was less than an inch from his face. The surprised hobgoblin went very still, as his eyes widen in rm. Yep, the surprise was ruined, and this had definitely been a bad idea.


    The Deep Green has yet to spit out a beast that can sneak up on me, hobgoblin, and that includes the likes of you, Saeter whispered threateningly, before rxing and dropping his de.


    I was just having fun. I wasnt going to do anything bad, cknail whined.


    If I thought you were, Id have already skewered you. Missions arent the time to be having fun. Thats how people get hurt, Saeter replied gruffly.


    cknail nodded enthusiastically in agreement. Hed certainly almost been hurt. His master grunted and his hard expression softened. The hobgoblin almost thought he detected a slight smile on the mans lips.


    Howd the mission go; did you get Galive? Saeter asked.


    Of course, I started a fight, crept through the shadows, went in and out some windows, and murdered the sleeping human. There was nothing to eat, cknail exined cheerfully.


    The old scout rolled his eyes in an exasperated manner after the hobgoblin finished speaking. cknail frowned at his masters response. What was wrong with his answer? It covered all the important bits.


    You can tell Herad the details. Did that Elixir of Mahediumse in handy? Saeter inquired.


    cknail mouth fell open slightly, as the question caught him off guard. He had kind of forgotten hed had it. There were definitely a few times a boost of speed and strength would have been useful though


    It was too easy, I didnt need it, cknail bragged dishonestly.


    Saeter gave him a suspicious nce, but didnt bother to question the hobgoblin.


    Come on lets get back to base, winters approaching, and its getting bloody cold out, Saeter told the hobgoblin as he walked past him and headed downstairs.


    The hobgoblin sighed regretfully as he followed the old scout. His master probably shouldnt have waited out in the cold for him; he was going to catch the sniffles. Obviously, hed been worried cknail was going to mess things up, so hed stuck around. Why couldnt his master have just trusted him? He was very trustworthy!


    After several minutes of walking through the now almost pitch ck street, cknail was starting to wonder where they were going. They werent headed anywhere near Herads base.


    Saeter soon turned around and scowled at cknail.


    Why dont you lead the way, waiting around for you so long has left my legs sore, he told the hobgoblin.


    cknail wasnt sure why that mattered. Wouldnt he have to walk the same distance anyway? Well, whatever


    Were going back to their? he asked, just to make sure.


    Of course, we bloody are. Where else would we be headed? Saeter huffed indignantly.


    Nowhere-ss, sorry, the hobgoblin replied, as he quickly took the lead.


    He took a second to decide on the fastest route, and then within minutes they were approaching Herads stronghold. The guards out front simply nodded in greeting when they recognized Saeter, and cknail gave them a friendly nod back. The pair then walked through the front entrance and into the room on the other side.


    As usual, there were several bandits sitting around the table there ying a game of cards. This time however, Khita was one of them. Judging by the pile of coins in front of her, and the dissatisfied looks on several of her opponents faces, she appeared to be winning.


    The young redhead nced their way as Saeter and cknail entered, and smiled cheerfully at them. She seemed to having fun.


    Youre back! How did your top secret mission for the boss go? I know she sent you out to do something, all hush hush, she asked.


    If you know that, then you shouldnt be asking, interjected arge male bandit that was sitting across from her.


    Bah, youre just upset that youre losing, Khita responded, as she beamed at cknail.


    The bandit scowled angrily at her, and one of his eyebrows started twitching.


    No, youre lucky that the boss likes you so much, the man muttered angrily.


    cknail agreed with him, but he found himself giving the man a steady disapproving re. If anyone was going to kill Khita, then it was going to be him! The bandit met his stare for a second, but then hurriedly looked away.


    Wheres Herad? Saeter asked Khita.


    She was in that big room down the hall to the left, the one with all the couches, thest time I checked, Khita replied.


    Saeter grunted his acknowledgement, and then unceremoniously left the room. After one quick nce back at the man who had challenged him, cknail followed him out. It only took a few seconds for them to reach the room Khita had mentioned, and Herad was indeed there.


    She was sprawledfortably over the edge of one of the couches. A tter of food and drink had been set out on a side table in front of her, and several of her usual guards were also there. Most of them were standing around the room, but two had seats of their own.


    Herad smiled eagerly when she saw them, and pulled herself up into more of a sitting position.


    Clear the room, she then announced.


    With a quick nod of acknowledgement the guards got up and left the room. They closed the doors behind them.


    Since youre both back, I take it that Galive is dead? the chieftain asked them.


    So the hobgoblin tells me, Saeter replied.


    I totally killed him. I cut his neck deep as he slept, and he bled everywhere! cknail answered cheerfully.


    Herad ignored cknail, and raised an eyebrow dubiously at Saeter.


    You think hes lying? she asked curiously.


    Ha, no. He went in, and he came out alive. That means Galive is dead, Saeter huffed.


    You never know. Maybe they found out about your hobs secret weakness for sweet cakes, and bribed him, she replied with a chuckle and a grin.


    cknail scowled in annoyance. That was just insulting. He would never betray his tribe for a sweet cake! There werent enough cakes in the whole world for that. Of course, the world wasnt that big, and mostly seemed to be made up of trees.


    Herad saw his look and instead of growing angry she smirked. She then reached out and grabbed one of the pastries from the tter, and tossed it up into the air towards cknail. Instantly, the hobgoblin caught it and shoved it into his mouth.


    Thank-ss you so much mistress, he told her happily as he chewed. All his previous feelings of irritation had beenpletely forgotten.


    If only all men were so easy to please, Herad remarked, with a look towards Saeter.


    You mean control, Saeter replied dryly.


    That too, Herad added with another smug grin. Saeter, Ill have you get a report from cknail and give it to me tomorrow. His full reports are different.


    They certainly are, Saeter agreed.


    Herad then turned to the hobgoblin.


    For now, just tell me about anything important or unexpected that happened, and this time leave out any details about how things tasted or smelled. I dont need to know about that, Herad asked, as she grimaced with disgust.


    ckail sighed in disappointment. That was usually the most interesting part, though! He took a moment to recall everything that had happened on his mission.


    Hed walked there with Saeter, thered been some humans, hed eaten the chicken, hed tricked some more humans, bleh bleh, and then hed killed Galive and ran away. Oh wait, there had been one thing.


    There was a man, an assassin. He was there to protect Galive, but he sucked at it, cknail told his chieftain.


    Thats interesting. You overheard them talking? Herad asked.


    Yes, he was sent by a Zelena human, cknail replied.


    See, Saeter? I knew they were working together. Galive swore he was a neutral party, but I wasnt fooled! That bastard lied like a vige peddler; for all that he was supposed to be a priest. Herad eximed excitedly.


    I didnt disagree with you about that, Saeter pointed out.


    I guess you didnt, for once, Heradmented with a roll of her eyes.


    If thats everything, then Id like to get some sleep. I also wouldnt mind a hot cup of tea, Saeter told her.


    Fine, Id hate to keep you up past your bed time. You two can go rest, Herad answered dismissively.


    Its not my bedtime. Im going to go out and find some food, cknail interjected.


    Youreing with me. Now is not the time to be wandering around, Saeter replied as gave the hobgoblin a stern nce.


    But Im still hungry, cknail whined.


    Grab something from the kitchen, Saeter told him as he gave him a light push towards the door.


    Fine, but Im eating whatever I want, the hobgoblin replied as he opened the door.


    Go ahead, just keep out of trouble, his master said as they passed by the guards from earlier.


    After almost an hour of ransacking the kitchen and terrorizing the chef, cknail had stuffed himself enough that he began to grow sleepy. Saeter had already left so the hobgoblin yawned and headed for his room.


    Once there, he disrobed and began rearranging his nkets for maximumfort. The hobgoblin then curled up on his bed and almost immediately went to sleep. Hed earned his rest.


    It wasnt to be as long a rest as hed hoped, though. Several hourster, he twitched in his sleep as an unexpected rhythm prated his subconscious.


    When the quiet sound repeated itself, the hobgoblin stirred and frowned in annoyance. He opened one eye slightly and saw that it was still dark outside. He didnt like being awakened like this, so hopefully whatever the annoying thing was it would soon stop or die.


    It sounded like footsteps. In fact, it sounded like several people were trying to move quietly, and it wasing from the roof...


    The hobgoblin growled softly as he camepletely awake. His tribe was under attack!


    :sleepy: This is the3rd chapter this week!It was tons ofwork, soplease rate this story.Just click the stars and submit.


    As always, you can find the next chapter at my website.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 6

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 6


    cknail immediately pulled himself up from the tangle of sheets around him, and growled menacingly. The sound of his anger echoed throughout his small room, as he shot to his feet. Someone was trying to be sneaky and invade his tribesir!


    Enemies, he hissed to himself.


    The hobgoblin felt his drowsiness burn away under the relentless waves of his rage. His lips rose to reveal his teeth as he snarled. Whoever these people were, they were about to get a very nasty surprise. He was going to stab them, a lot.


    cknail didnt waste any time. He quickly began throwing on his clothes and arming himself, as he carefully listened in on the enemies'' progress.


    The footsteps were slowly but steadily crossing the roof. At first the hobgoblin assumed they wereing to attack him, but he realized that was unlikely. No one knew who he was, or where hed stashed his cheese.


    That meant they must be after Herad! They were assassins, and aiming to murder cknails chieftain the same way the hobgoblin had killed the other chiefs.


    Well, it wouldnt work, because they were much worse at it than cknail. The hobgoblin had already discovered them, and not being detected before reaching the target was the most important bit.


    He pulled on his mask, slipped quietly through his door, and stalked quickly forward down the hallway towards Herads room. The hallway was dark except for a single candle set on a small table, and there was a sleepy looking guard leaning against the wall beside it.


    cknail growled as he noticed the mans eyes were closed. What kind of pathetic warrior went to sleep in the middle of a job?


    The man was apparently a light sleeper though because the hobgoblins outraged growl woke him. He blinked and turned to see what was going on, and then jumped in rm when he saw the masked and cloaked hobgoblin descending upon him.


    Shh, quiet, cknail hissed as he raised a finger to his mouth. There are-ss people on the roof,


    What? the man whispered in confusion, as he began to recognize cknail and started calming down.


    Assassins on the roof! cknail whispered back.


    Why did he always have to repeat himself? Human hearing wasnt that bad, even if they had tiny pink ears.


    Herads guard flinched as the hobgoblins words finally sunk in. He then threw a quick nce upwards, as if he expected to see something. cknail sighed in frustration; he wasnt impressed.


    We need to raise the rm, the man said a few secondster.


    No, then-ss they would run. Give-ss me door key, and then go raise rm, silently. Herad would-ss want us to warn her, and then trap them so they end up dead, cknail argued.


    There was no way Herad would want to pass up an opportunity to kill some of her enemies. She was pretty consistent that way.


    The guard seemed to agree with cknails judgment of Herads character, because he nodded reluctantly in agreement and then handed cknail the key.


    Ill be right back. You wake the boss then. Better you than me anyway; shes not a morning person, the man told him.


    He then quickly disappeared into a side room, and several secondster the hobgoblin could hear him begin whispering to someone else.


    cknail was tense and nervous as he unlocked the door and walked through it. Not because of the assassins, but rather because he was pretty sure the guard was right about how Herad wouldnt like being disturbed. She would however like not being informed of the assassins even less, which meant there really werent any good options.


    The chieftains room was dark, except for the slivers of moonlight that squeezed through the cracks of the one small shuttered window, and the light of the candle in the hallway that shone out from under the closed door behind cknail.


    It was however more than enough light for the hobgoblins sensitive eyes. He could make out most the details of the room, including the bed Herad was sleeping on. The bandit chieftain was curled up under her sheets and her sleeping face was pointed his way.


    As he approached Herad, cknail very carefully calcted a minimum safe distance that was out of reach of a sword. He didnt believe for a second that she didnt have one shoved somewhere around the bed, or that she wouldnt use it on him if he angered her.


    Once he had gotten as close as he dared, cknail took a second to study Herad. She looked different somehow, but the hobgoblin couldnt immediately figure out why.


    Then he realized her eyes werent as shadowed and menacing as usual. Did Herad wear makeup? No wait, that was just silly; of course it was actually war paint. That made much more sense.


    The creaking of wooden supports from above brought cknail back to reality. He knew he needed to wake his chief up before the assassins arrived, but he couldnt figure out how to do it safely. Yelling was out of the question, and so was touching her. Maybe he could poke her with a long stick?


    cknail looked her over again. She actually didnt seem all that dangerous at the moment. In fact she seemed kind of vulnerable, so he should probably just go shake her awake. That would be quietest way to do it after all. He took a tentative step forward


    I can think of three reasons a hobgoblin would be creeping around in my bedroom after dark, and youll only survive one of them, Herad told him, as shey unmoving in bed with her eyes closed.


    cknail instantly froze, and he felt a cold shiver work its way through him. His eyes widened as he realized hed just almost gotten himself killed. Good thing he was a coward.


    There are bad assassins on the roof! When I, your ever loyal servant, heard them I told your guards. Then I came in here to tell you, cknail whispered to her nervously.


    The bandit chieftain grunted and opened her eyes. Her cold gaze bore into him as she studied his face. She was still scary, even without war paint.


    Good, because youre not my type, and it''d be a shame to have to kill you for being too ambitious, she told him, as she sat up.


    Her movement caused her nkets to shift and slip off of her shoulders. Underneath that, she was wearing a loose in white shirt and long dark pants.


    How many? she asked, as she stood up and pulled on a leather jacket that had been lying beside her bed.


    Five or six, cknail replied uncertainly. He was just grateful that his answer had apparently been the right one. What had the other two been?


    Theyreing for me? Herad asked as she pulled a sheathed sword and hilt out from under her pillow.


    Sounds like, cknail whispered back.


    There was suddenly a slight creaking noise from the roof above, and both of them looked up. Herad then narrowed her eyes and then turned to the window. It was the only way in other than the door.


    There was then a creaking noise from behind them, as the entrance swung open slightly. Both Herad and cknail tensed and reached for their weapons. However, it was only several of Herads guards. When they saw that their boss was up and about they stopped, and waited for orders.


    Herad studied them for a second before motioning silently for them to back off. The man in front nodded, took a step back out of the room, and then carefully shut the door behind him.


    The bandit chieftain then moved over to her bed and pulled several pillows out from underneath it. She then stuffed them under her nket, so that it looked like someone was still sleeping there. With that done she crouched down beside the bed out of sight of the window.


    cknail had been wondering where all the spare pillows had gone, theyd disappeared suddenly right after hed piled them all on his bed to make himself morefortable.


    The hobgoblin ignored that for now though, and tried to find somewhere to hide. Another creak, this time from the roof right above the window, meant that the hobgoblin had to move quickly.


    He didnt see anythingrge enough to hide behind, except for the bed, so he crept up to the window and then pulled himself up over it and into the rafters above. Humans rarely ever looked up; it was a weakness of the species.


    Herad gave him a dubious look, but then just shook her head and crouched back down out of sight. cknail was fairly sure that meant she trusted his judgment, and why wouldnt she?


    Almost immediately, the shutters below cknail shook ever so slightly. A slim hooked de poked out from between them, and then slid upwards until it hit thetch. There was the faintest of clicking noises as the de knocked thetch loose and unlocked the window.


    As the hobgoblin watched from above, the shutters swung open ever so slowly. A secondter, a man wrapped in dark clothing crept through the window and into the room. He quickly nced around the room, and stared apprehensively at the dummy beneath Herads sheets for a few seconds, before tiptoeing off to the side.


    The assassin was wearing a ck hood and had a dark grey scarf wrapped around the lower part of his face, but cknail recognized his scent. It was Malthus, the assassin who had failed so badly at being Galives bodyguard.


    A soon as Malthus was out of the way hispanions followed him in, until all five of them were inside. cknail watched with interest as Malthus raised a hand and signaled to his men using some sort of signnguage the hobgoblin didnt understand.


    Almost instantly, the assassins spread out and stalked stealthily towards Herads bed. cknail waited expectantly for them to steppletely into the trap, but halfway there Malthus froze and hurriedly signaled his men.


    Instantly, the two men closest to the window turned and ran for it. The other three, including the leader, drew their swords and began backing up slowly. Up in the dark rafters cknail pouted in disappointment. Somehow, theyd obviously noticed the trap, and that was no fun.


    Several things then happened all at once. cknail dropped down onto the back of one of the fleeing assassins, and thenshed out and kicked the other one savagely in the head.


    Meanwhile, Herad rose up from behind the bed with her de drawn andunched herself at the other three assassins. The ringing of shing des drew the attention of several of Herads guards, who had been waiting in the hallway. They threw the door open and moved to join the fight.


    As cknail grappled his opponent to the floor, Herad engaged two of the assassins in a swordfight. The third attacker stepped back and quickly reached into his robe, before pulling out a beaker and throwing it violently towards her charging minions.


    The ss container hit the floor and spilled liquid everywhere as it shattered. Herads thugs stepped onto the mess as they ran towards her, and then began tripping all over themselves as their feet slid out from under them.


    The man wrestling cknail finally went limp as the hobgoblin withdrew his knife from out under his ribs. The assassin cknail had kicked earlier had gotten to his feet and was crawling through the window, so the hobgoblin grabbed the booted foot closest to him, and pulled him back into the room.


    The vial thrower assassin used the time he had bought himself and hispanions to turn back towards Herad. He was however toote to prevent Herad from parrying one of hispanions des and then unleashing a lightning quick sh that sent the assassins severed hand falling to the floor.


    n Dawn, Malthus barked as he ducked under a sh from Herad.


    Hearing this, the assassin who had thrown the beaker broke away from the fight, and made a dash for the window. He ran right past cknail as he fled. The hobgoblin was now wrestling with his second assassin, and he wasnt doing nearly as well as he had against the first.


    The man had got in a lucky blow at the start, and kicked cknails knife away. The masked hobgoblin had more, but he was too busy trying not to get choked out by therger and stronger human to draw them. He also wished he wasnt wearing the mask so he could just bite the stupid mans fingers off, or that he hadnt forgotten to take his Elixir again.


    Herad was now locked in a brutal sword fight with the assassin leader. Both of themunched attack after attack at each other with furious precision. Their des shed through the air so quickly that they were almost impossible to see. It was obvious that bothbatants were Vessels, no one else could move so swiftly.


    Herad was slowly forcing the man back though. She smiled cruelly as she fought, and seemed to be having quite a bit of fun. The assassin leader on the other hand looked nervous. He was obviously having trouble avoiding some of her attacks, and already had a few superficial gashes in his clothing.


    The man who was fighting cknail suddenly lurched backwards, and then surprised the hobgoblin by punching him heavily in the side of the head. cknails mask absorbed most of the blow, but it also shifted slightly to the side and blinded him.


    The now blind hobgoblin could only il about and try to grab his opponents hands. This didnt work very well though, and a few secondster he lurched backwards as something mmed into his stomach.


    By this time the third assassin had reached the window, instead of diving through it though, he turned and pulled something out of his coat.


    Dawn, he yelled at the top of his lungs, which caused everyone to look his way.


    Blinding light then burst forth and enveloped the room. Swearing rang out as everyone tried to shield their eyes.


    Fucking mage, Herad hissed.


    The leader of the assassins had been facing away from the light and prepared for it, so he wasnt blinded. He took the opportunity to sh at Herads neck. The bandit chieftain must have sensed something though, because she threw herself out of the way of the attack. The assassins sword ended up only grazing her shoulder.


    He didnt try for a second attack. The man turned and fled towards the window, as Herad and her men tried to organize themselves and regain their footing.


    The assassin that was grappling with cknail pushed him aside and tried to rise to his feet. As cknail lurched backwards he growled in frustration. Rage and confusion pulsed through him, until he couldnt take it anymore and he ripped his mask off.


    His opponent froze and his eyes widened in terror as the hobgoblins inhuman visage was revealed. cknail didnt waste the opportunity. He grabbed one of the mans wrists, and then before the man could recover he lunged down and savagely bit into it with his now exposed teeth.


    Screams filled the room as the hobgoblin dug his teeth deeper into the humans flesh. The iron taste of blood filled his mouth, and excited him. Filled with a sudden bout of hungry energy the hobgoblin let go of his opponents ruined arm, and then dug his fingers into the mans eyes.


    The hobgoblin''s long sharp nails cut through his gloves, and then deep into the mans sockets. More tortured screams rent the air.


    As the many helpless and writhing beneath him, cknail took the time to look around the room. The other assassins had already fled. Only Herad, her minions, and several corpses remained.


    Herad blinked and dropped the hand that was massaging her eyes. She looked at cknail and ground her teeth together furiously.


    Leave the wounded one, you idiot. After them! she yelled at him.


    cknail immediately grabbed his fallen mask and jumped to obey. He leapt off his defeated prey andunched himself at the window.


    In mid air he grabbed the window sill and swung himself around to the outside wall, where he sank his ws into the wood and began to climb after the assassins. He could hear them running across the roof, and see the discarded piece of rope they had used to escape on the street below.


    With inhuman agility the hobgoblin pulled himself onto the roof and scrambled after the fleeing assassins. Instinctively, he knew that the best way to catch them was to make sure they didnt know they were being followed. Also, cknail wasnt sure what to do with them when he caught them. They still outnumbered him, and Malthus was apparently a much better swordsman than he was a bodyguard.


    So the hobgoblin kept his head down and used the angle of the roof to hide himself from sight. When the remaining pair of assassins reached the end of the roof they disappeared. cknail scurried over and saw them on the ground below him, he also saw the rope they had used to get there. As he watched they ran across the dark city street and into an alley.


    cknail slid down the rope and hurried after them. He couldnt see them, but he could still hear their heavy footsteps and follow their scent.


    His quarry twisted and weaved their way through the city as they tried to lose any possible pursuit. cknail found it highly amusing. All their efforts were utterly pointless against him; he followed after them though the alleys and back ways of the city without any problem.


    Soon, cknail arrived in a familiar part of town. The trail of the assassins who had tried to kill Herad led up to the front entrance of arge colorful building that the hobgoblin didnt immediately recognize, because he hadnt really looked at it from the front before. It was the ce hed met Luphera.


    A suspicious growl escaped from cknails lips, as he stood at the opening of a nearby alleyway. The darkness of night hid him as he red at the building, and considered this new development.


    Was Luphera involved in the attack on Herad? It wasnt impossible, she had bragged about having minions and connections. The idea upset cknail for some reason. He wasnt sure why though; it wasnt like they were of the same tribe, and he didnt really even know much about her. In fact, she was very unsettling to be around.


    What should he do now? Could he just return to Herad and tell her where the assassins had gone? Did she expect him to kill them before returning? He probably could head back now without being punished, but cknail realized he didnt want to. He wanted to know exactly what was going on, and whether Luphera was involved.


    Yes, perhaps it was time to be a little more aggressive with the woman. He had let her weird perfume and behavior put him off guard before, but now he was done being on the defensive.


    He would find her and get answers, but this time there would be no stupid games. He would simply take what he wanted, no matter who he had to kill.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 7

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 7


    cknail growled as he made his way around the building and towards the back exit. The way was familiar and hed been here enough times now that he wasnt really paying attention, and thus he almost walked right into a pair of guards.


    He heard theming only seconds before they turned the corner. Startled, cknail immediately ducked behind arge barrel of rainwater and out of sight. A man and a woman with sheathed swords and leather armor then stepped into view, and headed his way.


    cknails stomach twisted as he watched them from concealment. He wasnt in a very good hiding spot, and if the two thugs got too close or walked behind the barrel they would see him. He cursed himself for not paying attention.


    The hobgoblin held his breath as the two humans walked right by him. One of the pair suddenly stopped walking, and threw a look backwards at the barrel. She stared at it for a few seconds, and frowned when she didnt see anything out of the ordinary.


    What are you doing? her partner asked.


    Nothing, I just thought I heard something, but theres nothing there, she replied before turning back around and walking away.


    This is Daggerpoint, if you jump at every shadow youll be spending the entire day on your toes, the man remarked.


    Maybe, but that just means its also one of the ces where youre most likely to get a knife in your back, she replied, before they both turned the corner and disappeared again.


    cknail sighed with relief as soon as they were gone. When the humans had passed him by, and hed be exposed, hed instinctively crept around to the other side of the barrel and back out of sight. His instincts had served him well, but then again they almost always did.


    The hobgoblin stood back up and then continued on his way. He still burned with anger, but now he was struggling to keep it contained. Nothing good ever came from letting his fury loose.


    He prowled through the alley and towards Lupheras window. When he got to corner that overlooked the passage behind the building he stopped and peered stealthily around it.


    The sun was now starting to rise. The tips of its rays had just begun to shine over the grungy buildings of the city. This gave cknail a very good view of the two guards that were standing by the back entrance of his destination.


    Both of them wererge armed men with purple vests, and one of them had ced a litntern on top of a nearby crate. The windows of the building behind them also shed light out on the back street. None of the sources of illumination were that strong, so together they cast a confusing maze of shadows onto the dirty cobblestones and mud of the alley.


    cknail studied the guards from the mouth of the alley. Why were there all these guards around suddenly? There had never been so many before. Were they expecting him?


    It didnt matter though. There was no way he was going to let a few stupid humans stop him. He would get the answers he wanted. He didnt know why he felt so driven to question Luphera, and he didnt really care.


    The hobgoblin red at the guards furiously for several seconds, and then several more. Okay, he had no idea how he was going to actually get past them


    There were a lot of shadows to work with, but it would still be difficult to sneak past them up into a window. No, hed have to get rid of them somehow. How would he do it though?


    He could sneak up to them and try to take them out quickly before they could raise the rm, but that would be risky even with Elixir. A distraction might work, if he coulde up with a good enough one.


    He didnt feel like sneaking around anymore, though. He was angry and wanted to hurt someone, and these men were undoubtedly connected to the assassins that had awakened him in the middle of the night! He really liked sleeping on his bed.


    So he would use a distraction, and then attack them! Why do one when you could do both? Even so early in the morning Daggerpoint was never a quiet city, so a little noise ought to be fine.


    The hobgoblin waited until the men were looking the other way then made his move. He stalked silently out of the alley and through the shadows. He kept the cool stone wall at his back until he reached an empty wheelbarrow someone had left at the side of the street. He ducked down behind it and carefully prepped his sling.


    cknail then took out his vial of Elixir, lifted his mask, and gulped it down. Ugh, it still tasted like dirt, but he was going to need every bit of speed he could muster. When he was sure no one was looking again he gently lobbed a stone from his pouch down the street, so that it ttered against a wall on the other side of the guards.


    What was that? one of them asked, as he took a step closer to the noise to get a better view.


    Probably a rat, they get pretty big here, the other man replied without concern.


    That was when the second stone from cknails sling took him in the back of the head. The thug immediately crumpled as a muffled cracking echoed through the alley. Hispanion jumped and began to turn back around, but cknail had already sprung out of hiding.


    With savage ferocity he descended on the man, and Elixir burned through his flesh and bone as he leaped. With inhuman speed the hobgoblins de shed through the air and sliced into the mans unprotected neck. The guard barely had time to gasp, before he was dead on his feet. Then he crumpled and hit the ground.


    cknail froze and scanned the windows around him for any sign that hed been seen or heard. When he didnt see anything he switched to focusing on listening. A few streets away a horse neighed, and the pounding of footsteps and creak of wheels came from everywhere. None of that was unusual though, so it didnt sound like hed alerted anyone.


    The hobgoblin then crouched down over the body of the man hed hit with his sling, and listened for any signs of breathing. Nope, nothing; the human was dead. cknail grabbed the corpses feet and dragged it out of sight behind a pile of wood. He was breathing slightly harder when he went to get the other body.


    Stupid fat city humans, they should-ss get outside more, cknail muttered as he strained to move the second corpse. The people of Daggerpoint were even more bloated than normal humans.


    When that was done, he scowled at the blood trail hed left in the dirt. A few secondster he shrugged and turned to look up at Lupheras window. It probably wouldnt matter; most humans were blind and couldnt smell at all anyway. Why did they even have noses?


    Quickly, cknail began climbing up the stone work and wooden struts until he reached the opening on the second floor. He didnt have a lot of time. He wasnt stupid enough to believe that even humans wouldnt eventually find the bodies; soon the guards hed taken out would be missed.


    cknail reached the window and peeked over the windowsill. He didnt see anyone there so he pulled himself up and crawled inside. The bedroom was basically the same as before. The furniture was stillvish andfortable looking, but only the faintest hint of the incense remained in the air.


    cknail remembered his first visit here, so the first thing he did was double check the bed to make sure no one was hidden among the sheet, and then just to be sure he looked under the bed as well. There was no one in either of those spots, so cknail rxed.


    After taking a second to scratch an itch, he then turned towards the rooms only door and headed carefully over to it. As he approached someone on the other side spoke up.


    Are you sure you dont want anything to drink? I have both wine and tea? Luphera asked someone.


    cknails ears perked up as he recognized her voice, and his heart beat a little faster. His prey was close. The only reply to Lupheras question however, was a disdainful grunt from someone with a deep masculine voice.


    What, do you think Ive poisoned it or something? she chuckled at the unseen man.


    Im not one of your clients, Luphera. Im here to keep a watch on you until all this is over with, not fraternize, the unseen man responded in a rather unfriendly tone.


    cknail stalked silently over to the door, and very carefully pulled it open ever so slightly. He then peered through the tiny crack into the room on the other side.


    Luphera was seated on avish purple couch, and wearing a delicate white dress. She had a bored look on her face as she regarded the only other person in the room.


    Arge man stood by the far door, with his arms crossed in front of him. cknail instantly pegged him as apanion to the men hed followed here. He was dressed the same, but looked a bit different than any of the attackers. His eyes were narrowed as he red hostilely at Luphera.


    Is that what I do, fraternize? Luphera asked with obvious amusement.


    No, what you are is a whore and a gossip monger, the man told her coldly.


    And youre an easily reced murderer, so I wouldnt be so quick to judge anothers profession, she replied coolly.


    cknail eyed the two humans as they red at each other. He was fairly sure these two werent friends. He wasnt the best reader of human tone and bodynguage, but he was fairly confident about this. Of course, that didnt mean Luphera wasnt involved in the attack.


    What I am is loyal, unlike you, and our master knows it, the man countered.


    Im not loyal? Youd think that after all these years of service Najget would trust me more. He certainly values my services, Luphera mused.


    She then turned away from the man for a second and looked around the room. To cknail it almost seemed like her gaze stopped on him as it passed by the door, but that was impossible. He was much too sneaky to be discovered.


    Silence, whore. Youre not supposed to use the guild masters name, ever, the assassin growled angrily.


    You and the master are far too fond of your little drama. As if theres anyone around to hear it but us, she replied condescendingly as she turned back towards him and rolled her eyes.


    cknail heard it; he grinned happily from behind the door. Hed just discovered a secret! He had no idea what a guild master was, but he was sure it was important. A secret name sounded very sharp. Maybe, he should make one up for himself, like Sneaky Death Killer!


    Shut your mouth, Im through getting lip from you. If you speak to me again then youll regret it, no matter how useful you are to the master, the man snarled furiously.


    You would very much regret raising your hand against me, Luphera replied coldly with more than a hint of condescension.


    I guess were going to find out, the assassin growled, as he raised a fist and stepped towards her.


    cknail wasnt sure what was going on here, so he considered his options. He had a limited amount of time, so he should use any opportunities that came up. He also had to make sure he could act without raising the rm, though.


    He tried to remain detached, but his snarl grew tighter as he watched the man march across the room towards the woman. For some reason he felt protective of Luphera, and he didnt know why. It wasnt like they were of the same tribe. He supposed that he just liked talking to her, or maybe her perfume was rotting his brain.


    It wasnt because he liked her, though. cknail shuddered. She was just another fat pink human woman.


    What, youre just going to hit a defenseless woman, Farghus? Luphera sneered.


    And Im going to enjoy it, the man replied.


    The big brute loomed over the woman as he approached. Luphera didnt react to him, except to deepen her scornful scowl. She did however flinch and shield her face when he swung his heavy fist down at her.


    There was a cracking noise and a crash as Luphera was sent sprawling onto the floor. However, she didnt scream or even moan in pain. She just pushed herself up and stared back up at the man with eyes that burned with dark fury.


    Her dress had slipped off her left shoulder as shed fallen, and also slid up to reveal her long slender legs. cknail found himself staring at them, and quickly looked up. This meant he met her eyes though, and the controlled fury within them tugged at something primal inside him.


    That was stupid, Luphera spat angrily, as she cradled her sore arm.


    Why, you going to do something about it? the manughed.


    No, Im not going to do anything about it. I dont need to, Luphera replied icily, and louder than she had to.


    Rage and the dark instincts of a predator guided cknails silent steps, as he stalked forward with murderous intent. Lupheras assant never knew what hit him.


    One second he was sneering down at Luphera, the next cknails hand was wrapped around his mouth and chin, as the hobgoblins other hand pushed a dagger up under his ribs where it tore his insides apart. Then cknail started twisting the knife, because he enjoyed the feeling of it.


    The man choked and blood bubbled out of his mouth as his bodys strength drained away. He couldnt say anything or scream for help though, because cknail held his mouth closed. He tried to reach up and free himself from the hobgoblins grip, but he was already too weak to do anything but struggle futilely.


    Shhhh, no talking please. Im trying to be quiet, cknail whispered into his ear.


    Blood poured from the gash in the mans side, and secondster he copsed. There was already enough blood on the floor that there was a wet smacking noise as he hit the carpet beneath him.


    Calmly, Luphera got to her feet and gave cknail a polite nod of greeting.


    Youvepletely ruined that rug, she told cknail, as she fixed her dress.


    cknail just stared silently at her menacingly because he had no idea how to respond to that.


    Well, I guess I shouldntin. I was hoping youd drop by tonight after all. Thats a lovely new mask by the way, she told him.


    Thank you, cknail replied stiffly.


    He had no idea what was going on here. Was Luphera friend or foe? He hadnt really attacked the man to save her, but rather because hed sensed weakness and an opportunity. He decided just to ask her, since he was here to get answers from her after all.


    Who was he, whats going-ss on here? Also what do you know about the men who attacked Mistress Herad? the hobgoblin hissed at her menacingly.


    Luphera didnt seem scared though. One of her eyebrows rose, as she considered him for a second.


    That was one of Najgets hired assassins. Hes the owner of this establishment, and several others like it. Hes also the one who sent those men after Herad. He uses this ce to collect information, and Im one of the best brokers in the city. I despise the man though, and will dly help you kill him, Luphera exined.


    cknail stared at her nkly for several seconds. That had been really frank he had kind of been expecting to have to y some sort of game or trick the information out of her.


    Why would he challenge Herad? cknail asked suspiciously.


    Hed never heard of the man before, and Herad was rather vocal about her enemies and what she wanted to do about them. So, why would he try and pick a fight with her? That sounded like a great way to get killed.


    There was also something about Luphera''s posture and tone that bugged him. He thought he detected some hostility from her, which didn''t make sense. Why would she be angry at cknail? Hadn''t he just saved her?


    He wasnt challenging her, and the attack wasnt entirely his idea. Lately, hes be a little paranoid about the loyalty of some of the employees, so hes been hiring men from the Dark Guild. They pretty much own him now, and since Zelena bought them out that means she controls him, Luphera exined.


    cknail had definitely heard of Zelena. Herad had made her opinion on the other woman really obvious quite a few times. cknail didnt know where she would get that many burning needles though


    cknail shook his head to clear it and looked back up at Luphera. He wasnt quite sure what was going on here, but it seemed like this Najget worked for Zelena. That meant he was an enemy, and thus cknail should probably kill him. It''s what his mistress would want him to do.


    I see, so the hobgoblin began to ask, before Luphera cut him off.


    so, you need to go downstairs and kill Najget. He usually stays hidden in various hideouts across the city that even I dont know about, but right now hes here and vulnerable, Luphera told him.


    cknail was caught off guard again. He didnt like being told what to do, but that did sound about right


    This may be your only chance to get him. He has a few guards, but Im sure Herads faceless assassin wont have a problem getting past them. You have quite the reputation after all, she told him appreciatively, as she met the masked hobgoblins eyes and smiled charmingly.


    cknail found himself standing a little taller, and grinning happily. Obviously, he''d been imagining any hostility from her. He was a great killer, and this probably was the right thing to do

 A Tradesman’s Tools 8

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 8


    Luphera fluttered her eyshes as cknail considered his options. He did really feel like killing someone. He was also very good at it, so he could probably murder Najget without any real difficulty. The feat would also certainly impress Luphera


    Wait, what was he thinking? Why would he want to impress her anyway? She was just a human woman, not a prospective mate, and she wasnt even of his tribe! Not that he trusted everyone in Herads tribe though. Some of them werent nearly as dependable as him.


    The hobgoblins confident look turned to one of suspicion as he met Lupheras gaze. He didnt even know if Najget was a real person.


    How do I know youre telling the truth? he asked her doubtfully.


    Well, I havent raised the rm, she pointed out, with a friendly smile.


    It was a nice smile No, he had to concentrate. There might not be a lot of the perfume from before in the air, but there was still a lingering trace of it, and that was apparently enough to mess with his head.


    Yes, but if you were noisy I would have stabbed you, cknail countered.


    Oh, stop being so paranoid, cknail. Havent I always helped you out? Now, I just need you to do one small thing for me, kill Najget. Its what you should be doing anyway! she eximed assertively.


    Maybe, cknail mused. It did sound like fun, but Saeter had once told cknail that paranoia was the only thing that kept you alive. His master was also really old, so he probably knew what he was talking about.


    Even if Luphera wasnt outright lying, she still might be ying down the danger involved. There were an awful lot of guards around, and cknail didnt even know where Najget was, or what he smelled like.


    Luphera moved closer and leaned against his shoulder, and her body was surprisingly soft. As the hobgoblin watched her warily, she gave him a pleading look.


    I would be ever so grateful for your help, and Im sure we can work out some sort of reward. Ive heard some very interesting rumors about whats under that mask, and look forward to finding out if theyre right. I hope they are; it would be a novel experience, even for me, Luphera told him seductively, as she gently dragged one of her fingers down his arm.


    cknail immediately took a step back away from her. He didnt like the hungry look in her eyes; he wasnt used to being on the receiving end of an expression like that. The sudden mad beating of his heart also unnerved him, it hadnt been caused by fear.


    Youre so shy. Not at all what one would expect from your reputation, Luphera purred as she took another step after him.


    I still dont trust you cknail replied as he hastily backed away again.


    Instinctively, the hobgoblin nced around the room for something to hide behind, even though he knew it would be pointless and stupid. Lupheras attention was bing more than a little ufortable.


    He didnt know what to say to her, or even what to think. He just knew he wanted out of the room. He had no reason to put himself at risk to kill someone right now.


    Maybeter, I have-ss to get back, he muttered, as he turned away from Luphera and her unsettling eyes.


    Please cknail, I need your help, the woman pleaded.


    cknail ignored her, and immediately fled towards the window hed used to enter the building. Once outside the fresh air would clear his head. Before he could get more than a few feet though, he heard amotion from outside the window.


    The sudden sound of several people shouting filled the air. Someone was raising the rm! They must have discovered the bodies.


    Shit, cknail hissed.


    Almost immediately, he heard heavy footsteps from below as people from the building flooded out into the street. There were at least a dozen of them, and there was no way cknail could escape that way anymore. Hed let himself grow distracted, and had talked to Luphera for far too long!


    You were followed! someone shouted angrily from outside.


    Impossible, I took precautions. No one could have followed us back here, a familiar voice replied. It belonged to one of the assassins hed followed here.


    So I suppose these two corpses by the door are just a coincidence? the other person replied sarcastically.


    That doesnt matter now. Someones here, but he wont be leaving in one piece. I want people watching every possible exit until we catch him, a third man added.


    Luphera walked up beside the frozen hobgoblin.


    It seems like you left a mess out there when you came in, and now youll have to find a different way out if you want to leave, she told him.


    Yes, cknail grunted unhappily. He was fairly sure he detected a hint of smugness in her voice.


    I suggest heading out into the hall and taking a left. Theres a window in that room you might be able to escape out of. I wouldnt say its very likely though, she told him.


    cknail knew that tone of voice. It was one humans used when they thought they were so smart, but they rarely were.


    Whats your n? he asked her sullenly. It was probably going to be terrible.


    Well, if Najget were to suddenly die, then Im sure I could take control of the situation. Then you could just hide somewhere, while I have the house guards kindly ask the assassins to leave, Luphera suggested.


    The hobgoblin thought it over. Apparently, Luphera was actually that smart because her n might actually work. Most of the humans inside the building seemed to be heading outside and forming a perimeter to stop him from leaving, which also meant picking a window and trying to make a run for it was probably a bad idea.


    Fine, Ill kill the man for you, cknail sighed reluctantly.


    You might want to get going then, time isnt on your side, Luphera pointed out.


    cknail nodded and quickly headed for the door that led deeper into the structure. He was more than happy to get away from Luphera for now.


    Najget is the old man in purple with the moustache, and try not to kill anyone but him and the assassins, Luphera called after him.


    cknail grunted vaguely in reply. He didnt think he was going to have much choice but to kill anyone that got in his way if he wanted to survive this mess.


    The hobgoblin quickly shut the door behind him, as he stepped into the empty hallway on the other side. Once out there, he took a second to listen to the surroundings.


    He heard floorboards creek as people moved all around him. To his left was a door and a heavier human, who had a sword hilt pping against his thigh as he walked, was about to walk through it.


    The hobgoblin didnt have the time or the patience to do this quietly. He was going to have to do this fast and brutal.


    cknail swiftly pulled out the vial of Elixir and gulped the rest of it down. Then, he stepped to the side of the door and drew his de. When the door swung open and another assassin stepped out, cknail was out of his line of sight.


    Then before the man even noticed the hobgoblins presence, cknail stepped into view and shed savagely down at the mans head. The mans eyes widened in the split second he had before cknails sword smashed into the side of his head.


    There was a wet crunch and the man copsed into a bloody heap on the floor. cknail pulled his de out of the mans skull, and then stepped over the mans corpse and continued on his way. This wouldnt be thest human he killed before the night was over, and he couldnt afford to waste any time.


    As he passed by the open doorway, he saw the window that Luphera had mentioned as a possible escape route. Briefly, he considered abandoning the n and just jumping out of it, but then he sighed and quickly reconsidered. There would be people watching all the exits, including that window.


    So he reluctantly kept going and picked up speed as he dashed towards the stairs at the end of hallway. Now was not the time for stealth. The sound of people getting up and moving towards him could be heard from many of the adjacent rooms, and he nned to be long gone before they showed up.


    Just before he reached the stairs something creaked slightly from below, like there was someone climbing the stairs. cknail smiled and instead of slowing he sped up. As he turned the corner and began to rapidly descend the stairs, he caught sight of a purple vested guard with a drawn club.


    cknails downwards charge surprised the man, and the guard flinched and froze for a split second. That was all the time cknail needed. Instead of drawing his weapon or slowing down, the hobgoblin simply leaped towards the man and kneed him in the face.


    There was a muted crack as the two individuals collided. The purple vested guard''s head snapped back, and he began to tip over backwards. cknail didnt really feel like trying to roll down the rest of the stairs, that sounded very painful, so he grabbed the mans shirt and fell on top of him.


    The mans back hit the stairs, and then repeated thuds were heard as he started to slide down the steps. cknail still had a tight grip on the guards shirt and was perched on his chest. It was bumpy going but he managed to ride his opponent safely down, until they hit the wall at the bottom and stopped.


    cknail then hurriedly got to his feet. His opponent seemed to be unconscious, or dead. Sometimes it was hard to tell. The hobgoblin had effectively taken him out and done it quickly, but unfortunately it had been far from sneaky.


    He had already attracted a lot of attention. cknail could already hear people heading towards him. He looked up from the unconscious man to see he was in another hallway. It was empty except for one shocked looking woman standing at a doorway.


    A secondter the woman gasped in shock, threw herself out of the hallway, and then mmed the door behind her. cknail was more than happy to let her go. He had enough problems with human women right now, and had to find his target.


    He just wished he knew what Najgets voice sounded like, so he could track him that way. All he could do now was head towards anyone that sounded like an old human male, and cknail thought there was a good chance of there being more than one of those here.


    Quickly, the hobgoblin got up and dashed down the hallway. Where had Luphera said to go? Oh right, Najget was supposed to be past thest door to the left.


    As the hobgoblin raced down the hallway one of the doors in front of him swung open. A secondter another of the purple vested guards stepped out and turned to face cknail. He was right in the hobgoblins way.


    This guard also had a club and he swung it at the hobgoblin. cknail ducked under the weapon and then shoved his attacker aside as he raced past. There was no point in sticking around to fight.


    Before the guard could pick himself up, the hobgoblin had reached the door and thrown it open. cknail then stepped through into arge sitting room that was lit by several brassnterns that hung from the ceiling.


    Heavy bookshelves lined the walls, except for where tworge windows and another door were set on the opposite side of the room. Tasteful chairs had been ced around severalrge round tables, and there were severalfortable looking couches as well. Fancy red curtains framed the windows, and there were a few scattered books lying out on the tables.


    There was however no one that looked even remotely like a Najget. The room wasnt empty though, there were two assassins in it, and one of them looked really familiar. cknail groaned in frustration. He didnt like this turn of events at all, but at least there were windows he could jump out of.


    Atst we meet, Faceless One! Ive been looking forward to this for awhile now. Youve been making me look bad, but that ends today because Im going to kill you, Malthus shouted triumphantly, from the center of the room.


    cknail rolled his eyes. Here was another stupid human that liked to say the obvious. The hobgoblin just wished the man wasnt also a much better swordsman than him.


    Malthus and hispanion drew their des and headed for cknail. Both of them were still dressed in their dark leather armor and cloaks, but they had removed their face masks and dropped their hoods.


    This was actually the first time cknail had gotten a good look at Malthus. The other times theyd been close the assassin had been cloaked and hooded or out of sight. He was a slightly taller than average man with a thin face and brown hair that was almost long enough to reach his eyes.


    The hobgoblin watched the assassins approach and tried toe up with a new n, one that didnt involve getting sliced into tiny green bits. Fighting Malthus would be a really stupid thing to do, so he needed to get out of here.


    He couldnt go back the way hede though, and Malthus was blocking the way forward. So, some trickery seemed to be called for.


    We have met though, Malthus. Ive seen-ss you around many times, you just havent seen me, cknail shouted contemptuously.


    Malthus face grew slightly more lined as he frowned at the hobgoblin, but he also slowed his advance. He appeared to be trying toe up with a goodeback. cknail grinned beneath his mask. It had worked; the man really liked to talk.


    Yes well, now youre going to pay for being so arrogant as to think you could get past me twice. You were simply lucky the first time that Galive wouldnt let me do my job properly, the assassin replied.


    I wasnt lucky, youre deaf-ss and stupid. While you stood there by the door like a frog on a log-ss I was cutting Galives throat open andughing-ss at you. Good thing Galive wasnt paying you anything, cknail countered viciously.


    The hobgoblin and Malthus were slowly and cautiously approaching each other, but there were still several tables and couches between them. cknail began to circle a bit off to the side, while trying to look like he was just seeking a better position.


    Ill restore my title as the citys best Knifeman when I string your corpse up from the city gate. Thats what usually happens to assassins who operate in Daggerpoint without the Dark Guilds permission, Malthus shot back.


    No you wont; Im a far-ss better hunter and killer than youll-ss ever be. Youre just a soft and weak city man, but Ie from the Deep Green and Im Herads chosen killer! cknail bragged.


    The two assassins were fairly close now. Malthus scowled as he stepped around a couch. He seemed both annoyed and more than a bit confused by the hobgoblins words. Maybe cknail needed to talk slower so he could understand. A secondter the assassins gaze focused on the hobgoblins mask.


    Lets fight properly; face to face. Why hide behind a mask now? Let me see the visage of the man Im about to kill. Only one of us is going to leave this room alive anyway, the man proposed.


    cknail snorted in amusement. That sounded so dumb. Werent assassins supposed to be sneaky?


    No, besides youve a got a friend there, cknail replied scornfully, as he pointed to the other man beside Malthus.


    The hobgoblin wasnt in the habit of doing what his enemies told him. If Malthus wanted him to remove his mask then cknail intended to keep it on. The hobgoblin snuck a nce at the far door. Thanks to his maneuvering, Malthus and the other assassin were no longer directly between him and it.


    Dont worry; he wont interfere in our fight. Hell just make sure you dont attempt to run. I want to take care of you myself. My pride demands it, Malthus replied.


    cknails pride demanded that he never act as stupid as Malthus. The more the assassin talked the more convinced cknail became that he was an idiot.


    No, he can fight too. I brought friends of my own, cknail said smugly, as he pointed at the window behind the assassins.


    The pair looked startled for a second and quickly nced towards the window and the new threat, but there was nothing there. cknail had been lying through his teeth.


    While the two assassins were looking at the window, he quickly drew the sling and stone hed been stealthily preparing as he talked to them. With lightning fast speed he whirled the stone and sent it flying towards Malthuspanion. cknail was fast but the sound of the sling spinning through the air alerted the assassin, so he had just enough time to flinch.


    The stone smashed into the assassins arm as he raised it to protect himself. cknail grunted in disappointment. Hed been hoping to do damage to somewhere more vital or for a fatal strike.


    Fuck, the assassin roared in pain, as his de dropped to the floor. He cradled his arm against his chest and hissed in pain.


    You vile bastard! Malthus cursed, as he realized hispanion was now out of the fight.


    I didnt trust you. Now it really will be just you and me, cknail said, as he shrugged without apparent concern.


    The assassins face grew red with fury, and his grip on his sword tightened until his knuckles went white.


    You have a bloody sling? What kind of weapon is that for an assassin? Malthus swore.


    It works, so its a great one, cknail replied with an amused chuckle.


    Malthuspanion was still hopping around in pain and clutching his arm. Hed made no move to retrieve his sword.


    Fuck, this hurts! I think the bastard cracked my arm, he told Malthus.


    Fine, go get medical attention. I dont need you for this, the other man replied.


    You sure? the injured man asked.


    You cant fight, so go! Malthus hissed back angrily.


    The injured assassin nodded and began stumbling away towards the far door. The hobgoblin and the remaining human were now only a dozen feet apart.


    Im going to kill you for that! Malthus told cknail, as he turned back to face him.


    The assassins ck cloak fluttered behind him, as he kicked thest chair between them out of his way. The enraged Vessels eyes gleamed with hatred, and the light from the bronzenterns overhead reflected off the edge of his de, as he charged the hobgoblin.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 9

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 9


    The hobgoblin quickly drew his sword. There were no more obstacles between cknail and the skilled assassin hed just pissed off, only a small section of floor. cknail really wished hed had time to dig a pit or set up a snare trap there. That would have made his survival much more likely.


    All of a sudden Malthus lunged across the distance separating them and stabbed towards the hobgoblins chest. cknail side stepped the attack and then countered with a quick downwards sh of his own.


    The assassin easily knocked the hobgoblins attack aside and thenunched a flurry of attacks at cknail. The hobgoblin hissed in frustration as he blocked and weaved his way around the strikes. des shed and cloaks swirled as the twobatants fought.


    cknail knew he was in trouble. He was already having a hard time defending himself, and Malthus was obviously just testing cknail. Hed seen the assassin move much faster and more skillfully when hed fought Herad. The difference in ability and experience between them was just too great.


    cknail jumped backward to avoid a lightning fast sh aimed at his chest, and quickly readied himself for the next blow. It never came though; his opponent rxed his guard instead of following after him. Malthus grinned at the hobgoblin while cknail watched him warily.


    Good, youre only a passable swordsman, but at least youre a Vessel. Theres no other way you could have kept up with me just now. I was worried this was going to be too easy, but this might be somewhat entertaining after all, Malthus arrogantly remarked, as he showed off by flourishing his sword through the air.


    cknail rolled his eyes in exasperation. Who was the human trying to impress?


    If you want-ss a hard fight, why dont you go fight-ss Herad? Oh wait, you did! You fought-ss my mistress, and then you ran away like a rat from a cat, cknailughed viciously.


    Im going to kill you, Malthus hissed angrily in reply.


    You already said-ss that, idiot, cknail pointed out, as he started circling around to ce a table between them.


    Seriously, what was with humans and repeating themselves? It was annoying.


    Enough games, the assassin roared as he lost his temper and charged.


    cknail jumped aside, so that therge wooden table was between them. Malthus didnt slow down though. The assassin jumped right onto the tabletop and lunged across it as he tried to catch the hobgoblin.


    The man was fast; cknail had to give him that. Of course he was a Vessel, so he was cheating more than a little. Fortunately, the hobgoblin had just taken some Elixir as well.


    As the assassin was sailing over the table towards him, cknail dove under it and rolled safely away. If there was one thing that being beaten up by Herad had taught him, it was how to burn the Elixir within himself to avoid attacks by really fast humans.


    But I like-ss games, the hobgoblinughed, as he rolled to his feet on the other side of the table.


    He could feel the Elixir flowing through his body and energizing his muscles. It tickled the inside of his skin.


    The assassins face was twisted into a snarl as he stared across the table at cknail. He started walking around it towards the hobgoblin, but cknail started moving as well.


    After several seconds of following him around the table Malthus tried switching directions, but cknail instantly switched too.


    Malthus grabbed the table and flipped it on its side, then snarled in rage as he charged again. cknail ducked into the blind spot created by the tables top, and then dashed away. When Malthus cleared the obstacle, the hobgoblin was gone and standing several feet away on the other end of another table.


    Malthus ground his teeth together and his face went scarlet red. The tip of the sword he was holding shivered as he shook with rage.


    Fight me fair, you coward the assassin yelled at cknail.


    No, cknail hissed back.


    You are not amusing! Malthus growled as he walked over to the table and stared hard at the hobgoblin from directly across it.


    Yes, I am, cknail replied as he pushed the table forward and mmed it into Malthus gut.


    Ugh, hells and damnations, the assassin wheezed painfully, before wincing and taking a step back to steady himself.


    cknail couldnt help himself, he began to chuckle. That had looked like it had hurt.


    Bloody bastard, you are going to pay for that, Malthus growled as he straightened back up.


    The assassin then quickly reached into a coat pocket with one hand and pulled out a vial. He pulled the cork out with his teeth and then drained the contents. He didn''t lower his guard though, because his other hand kept his short sword pointed at the hobgoblin.


    cknail felt his earlier levity drain away. There was no mistaking the contents of the vial; it was Elixir.


    Malthus hurled the ss container aside and then wiped his mouth with the sleeve of his free hand. The assassin red at the hobgoblin, as he gripped his sword with both hands and raised it over his head. Then he kicked the table forward.


    The move caught cknail by surprise, but he managed to push off of the edge of the tabletop with one hand and slide backwards without being hit. Unfortunately, that was when the surface he was leaning on exploded; Malthus had brought his sword down and cleaved right through it with all of his strength.


    cknails support was pulled out from under him as the wooden surface copsed. He stumbled unsteadily for a second, and that was all Malthus needed. He charged through the wooden wreckage, and backhanded cknail across the face.


    The hobgoblins mask absorbed some of the blow, but not all of it. He grunted as pain shot through his jaw and up into his teeth. He tasted blood as he staggered sideways. There was a second of ckness, and the next thing cknail knew he wasying down and the hard floor was pressed against his back.


    He groaned in pain as he tried to clear his head. Where was he again, and why did he have such a terrible headache? He hadnt drank any of that human poison they called ale, had he?


    cknail was gripping something tightly with one hand. It felt like a sword hilt. Why was he holding a sword as he slept? That seemed kind of silly.


    The sound of footsteps approaching prated his agony, and cknail swiftly looked over towards the source of the noise. It was a pair of ck boots, and they looked really fancy and tight


    What kind of moron wore boots like that? Wait a second it was Malthus! This wasnt good. cknail rolled aside just in time. There was a heavy thud as a de bit into the wooden floor boards that had been under his head a second ago.


    cknail jumped back onto his feet, as Malthus raised his sword again and descended upon him. The assassins de sliced towards cknails head, but the hobgoblin stepped out of the way. Their eyes met and they exchanged hateful res for a second.


    That was very satisfying, Malthus said as he grinned viscously.


    Im still alive, cknail replied.


    Not for long. You cant run from me, the assassin remarked grimly.


    cknail begged to differ; Malthus anger and confidence was making his attacks easy to predict.


    This wasnt actually going so badly, other than that blow to the head hed just taken. That had hurt a lot. All cknail had to do was keep dodging, and Malthus would eventually make a mistake. Then the hobgoblin could make a run for it.


    You cant catch me, cknail respond confidently.


    I dont have to, you little bastard. Youre stuck here, and Ill soon have reinforcements, the assassin pointed out.


    Oh, right; cknail scowled behind his mask, as he realized the man had a very good point. Should he just attack the assassin while he was off guard? He didnt seem to have any other choice.


    Fine, its a challenge, cknail replied coldly, before raising his de and stepping forward.


    Malthus smiled eagerly and raised his own de. Their gazes met and the two swordsmen locked eyes as they closed in on each other.


    That was when the hobgoblin grabbed a nearby chair and whipped it at his opponent. There was no bloody way he was going to fight Malthus fair. cknail still remembered seeing the assassin fight Herad, and he knew he was out matched.


    There was a grunt of effort from Malthus as he knocked the chair out of the air. cknail threw himself forward and tried to skewer the human while his sword was out of position.


    cknail was focused on Malthus eyes, and that gave him a hint of a warning. Something was wrong; the assassins eyes gleamed with confidence. Why would they do that? The hobgoblin hesitated in his attack right before hemitted himself.


    While the chair still partly blocked cknails view, Malthus left hand blurred and something shot towards the hobgoblin. cknail instinctively ducked, as a throwing dagger ripped through the air where his head had been less than a second ago.


    cknail jumped back and raised his sword up into a guard. He stared grimly at his opponent as he reevaluated him. Malthus was much sneakier than he pretended to be. cknail was almost impressed.


    As the hobgoblin watched, the angry expression slid off the assassins face. Malthus then grinned cheerfully and gave cknail a respectful nod.


    You missed, the hobgoblin told him.


    Yes, I did. I honestly thought I had you there though. I spent a fair bit of time and effort setting that trick up, so what gave me away? Malthus asked cknail.


    cknail ignored his question and just stared at his transformed opponent. The man didnt seem angry at all anymore. Had he been acting? Why?


    You like games too, cknail replied usingly.


    Ha, yes. Youve got me here. Im a Knifeman not a pdin. Did you really think a man with a reputation such as mine could be such a straightforward fool?


    The answer to that had been yes.


    Why-ss the act? cknail asked suspiciously. He really didnt like this turn of events.


    The ck cloaked assassin grinned and shrugged.


    It was fun; theres nothing I like more than a battle of wits. Locking des pales inparison to matching minds. Were assassins, so a duel between us should be about trickery and wits, not straight forward swordy. Where would the fun be in just cutting you down without first proving myself superior? Malthus exined.


    You didnt look like you were having fun, cknail pointed out.


    Oh, but I was. It was a very interesting fight, and besides I wanted to figure you out before I killed you. However, I must admit that I still have no idea who you are. Youre a very odd man, the assassin replied as he titled his head to the side and gave cknail an inquisitive look.


    The hobgoblin chuckled in response. Apparently, Malthus wasnt the only good actor here. In fact cknail was obviously by far the better actor; he was pretending to be apletely different species.


    Wrong, youre very wrong, he replied cheerfully.


    The assassin frowned when cknail spoke, and he looked him over again.


    I dont care what you say, youre not a woman, he remarked.


    cknailughed again. If it was the assassins curiosity that was keeping him from attacking then cknail was going to give him a mystery. Malthus had been a dangerous opponent even when hed been acting like an idiot.


    No, not a woman, not a man, nor a child pink of flesh, the hobgoblin sang out tauntingly.


    But you cant deny being weird, Malthus replied as his eyes narrowed and he continued to look cknail over. He appeared to be deep in thought.


    Fine, you win. I have no idea what youre talking about, but I should probably stop letting you stall. I can always figure it out after Ive killed you and stripped that mask off your face, the assassin told cknail a few secondster, as he brought his de back up and stepped towards him.


    The hobgoblin had much preferred it when the man had acted like an idiot. He needed a new n, and he was running out of time. He had to somehow escape, and do it without getting a knife in his back.


    Just then, there was a creaking noise as the door behind Malthus opened. Both thebatants slowed as they waited to see who was about to enter the room.


    Horse stink, cknail cursed, as three more assassins entered the room.


    The ck cloaked figures swiftly started fanning out in an attempt to surround him. It wouldnt take them very long to navigate through the furniture that filled the library.


    This is still a one on one fight, the hobgoblin remarked.


    And it will still be one, as long as you dont try to run, Malthus replied.


    Yep, that was what cknail had expected. It was time to leave. He didnt really have anywhere to go, but he couldnt stay here. He had a n, but it was terrible, and was most likely going to get him killed. If he stayed here though, he was definitely going to die.


    Surround the intruder but dont interfere, Malthus yelled at his newly arrivedpanions.


    cknail used this brief distraction to quickly grab another chair and throw it at Malthus. Before the assassin could responded with another knife cknail threw a stone from his pouch at him.


    Instinctively, the assassin dodged it which ruined his throw. The knife sailed harmlessly across the room, and nowhere near cknail. The hobgoblin then wasted no time in making a mad dash for the nearest window. He sheathed his de so he could concentrate on running.


    Normally, cknail would have made a run for the windows earlier, but these ones were barred. Apparently, this Najget man didnt want anyone identally walking off with any of his books, through a window.


    The assassins behind him started shouting and chasing him as cknail raced towards the window, but there was no way a bunch of humans were going to catch up to him now that he had a head start.


    cknail just really hoped he was going to fit through those bars. If he didnt thest few moments of his life were going to be very embarrassing.


    The hobgoblin ducked as something whizzed by his head, and then a knife ricocheted off the wall in front of him.


    Damn, Malthus cursed from behind cknail. I want you all to spread out and make sure he cant double back. Those windows are barred so he cant go out that way, but he might have a trick up his sleeve. Hes a cunning bastard.


    Good, the humans didnt think he would be able to escape through the window, so they werent chasing him too quickly. He hoped they were wrong.


    cknail was now only a few feet from the bars, and his feet were carrying him rapidly closer. He really didnt like how close together they looked; it was going to be a tight fit. Swiftly the hobgoblin took off his mask and rearranged his pouches.


    Before he hit the bars head first cknail grabbed them and pulled himself up. He then swung his legs and feet through first. They went through without a problem, but next came his chest. cknail felt his ribspress painfully and push all the air from his lungs as they slid through the opening.


    His mouth was forced open and he coughed as his breath burst from his mouth, and then it was his heads turn. He turned his face sideways and tucked his chin into his shoulders he went through. At first it went smoothly and he thought he was alright, but then the back of his head smashed into one of the bars.


    Momentum carried him through, but cknail copsed bonelessly onto the ground outside. His eyes fluttered and he twitched as hey in a twisted heap there.


    Hells, how the fuck did he manage that, a surprised Malthus swore as the hobgoblin disappeared from his view.


    cknail gave himself several seconds to recover and then picked himself up. He groaned and rubbed the back of his head until the shiny little stars had disappeared from his vision. He was very thankful that he wasnt fat like a human, and that his bones were so bendy. They were supposed to be like that right?


    cknail shook his head to clear it, and tried to focus. He was far from safe outside. Malthus and the other assassins couldnt follow him, but the hobgoblin knew they had ordered most the men to watch the perimeter of the building, and that was where he was now.


    The yard outside this part of the brothel wasnt all that wide, and was bordered by a line of shrubs. The nts themselves were just there to conceal the dirty wall of the building next door. Really it was just a pretty alley.


    There was nowhere for him to hide out here. Autumn had even stripped most of the leaves from the bushes. Most importantly, the hobgoblin could already hear footsteps approaching. What was he going to do now?


    There he is! arge man yelled as he turned a corner and came into sight. Several other people were right behind him, and all of them were armed.


    The hobgoblin hissed in aggravation as he saw enemies began to approach from the other side of the narrow yard as well. He was faced with walls on two sides and hostile humans on the other two.


    Hed known that there would be lots of enemies outside, but had been hoping to spot an escape route through them. There wasnt one though, and that left him with only one option.


    cknail sprinted away from the window hed juste out of, and then turned around and sprinted back towards it. Right before hitting the wall of the brothel he red his Elixir and jumped as high as he could. His outstretched ws found purchase and he managed to catch hold of a second story windowsill. He had nowhere else to go but back into the brothel.


    cknail smiled smugly as he pulled himself and began to climb up the wall. There was no way any of the big fat pink humans below would be able to follow him, so he was safe for a little while.


    That was when a crossbow bolt mmed into the wood beside his head. The stunned hobgoblin stared wide-eyed at the vibrating projectile for a split second, before his gaze automatically turned towards the shooter. Below him a purple vested guardsman was reloading a crossbow, as other human thugs gathered around him.


    Damnation, you missed. Quick, reload; the slippery bastard is getting away, one of them yelled.


    "Uh-oh," cknail gasped in shock.


    If that human hadn''t had such terrible aim he could have just died! It was time to leave. With panic and Elixir lending him strength, cknail quickly flipped himself up and over the windowsill and back into the brothel. Hopefully his second trip inside today went a lot better than his first.

 A Tradesman’s Tools 10

    A Tradesman¡¯s Tools 10


    The cloaked hobgoblin found himself in another bedroom that was a smaller version of Lupheras, and he wasnt alone. A blonde woman in acy red shift was standing not too far from the window. She was deathly pale and staring at him in horror.


    cknail slowly looked up and met her gaze. Her only reaction was a slight shiver; she seemed too scared to move. He had absolutely no interest in this woman, and she obviously wasnt dangerous, so maybe he could just ignore her? The hobgoblin took one slow step forward.


    Instantly, the blonde started screaming shrilly. The long high pitched sound ripped into cknails sensitive ears. He winced in pain, as a sharp ache developed in the back of his skull. Not only would the womans screams attract too much unwanted attention but it also was really annoying. He had to get her to stop.


    Shut up! he yelled at her angrily.


    She didnt stop, and cknail groaned. This called for desperate measures. The hobgoblin took a step forward and grabbed the woman. He then drew his knife and waved it in front of her face.


    Quiet or Ill stab-ss you! he hissed in her ear.


    Amazingly enough this actually caused her to scream louder, which cknail hadnt thought possible. This human was too stupid and annoying to live. Why wouldnt she just shut up!


    The hobgoblin couldnt take the noise any longer; something had to be done. He sheathed his knife, tightened his grip on the woman, and then pulled. A secondter the woman was flying out the window, and much to the hobgoblins relief the screams finally stopped.


    There was a thud and a grunt of pain from outside. cknail giggled in satisfaction and amusement. It sounded like shed hit one of the men standing out there on the way down. Hopefully, it had been the crossbowman.


    cknail knew he didnt have a lot of time, so he hurriedly dashed out of the room and into another hallway. Hed lost his pursuit for now, but probably not for much longer. He needed to find this Najget man and kill him quickly. Then, hopefully all his problems would go away.


    However, before cknail could even figure out which way to go he heard footsteps quickly approaching from both directions. He was cut off; there was nowhere to run.


    Cheese weevils, cknail swore viciously.


    He really should have just run back to Herad, instead of going to see Luphera. She was nothing but trouble, and lots of it. Especially her long legs


    cknail smacked himself along the side of his head to clear his thoughts. He couldnt think of anything else to do, so he dashed up to a random door and silently opened the door a crack. Maybe he could find somewhere to hide until everyone stopped looking for him, or maybe Najget would walk by so cknail could kill him. That would certainly simplify things.


    The hobgoblin peeked through the door and into the room on the other side. The chamber wasnt empty; there were two women inside.


    A scantily d woman simr to the others cknail had run across was cowering behind a more muscr woman who was holding a sword. The swordswoman looked like shed dressed in a hurry; shed thrown on a jacket but wasnt wearing a shirt beneath it.


    Both of them were focused on the door, one in fear and the other with determination. cknail didnt think it was a good idea to go in there, unless he wanted to get stabbed or screamed at again, so he hurriedly moved on to the next door.


    The hobgoblin was unsurprised to discover that it led into another bedroom. This one was thankfully empty though, so cknail quickly slipped inside. Secondster, he heard arge group of people stomp out into the hallway. Why did this ce have so many beds? Did peoplee here just to sleep? That didnt make much sense to him.


    Other than therge four post bed with white hanging curtains, there were several other pieces of furniture in the room. Arge heavy clothes drawer stood against one wall, and a small side table had been ced beside the bed. There was also a closet and another window, but cknail didnt think it was a good idea to try and go back outside right now.


    The sound of doors being opened and closed as men searched the nearby rooms, reminded the hobgoblin that he didnt have a lot of time. He couldnt see any better options so he rushed over to the closet and pulled the door open. He was tempted to try hiding under the bed, but that hadnt really worked out all that well for himst time.


    It was small and cramped inside, but cknail dove inside and closed the closet door behind himself anyway. Most of the space was taken up by clothes that were hanging from a rod. The majority of the clothes were dresses, but there were a lot of smaller more frilly bits as well. There was also arge brown sack lying on the floor.


    cknail opened the sack and found it full of dirty clothes that smelled strongly of human sweat. He frowned at them and then looked around the rest of closet. There were no good hiding spots in sight. With a disgusted sneer cknail reached up under his mask and pinched his nose shut, before climbing into the sack. It would hide him for a few more seconds anyway.


    As soon as he was discovered cknail nned on jumping the closest human, and then making a dash for the window. Since so many men were now searching for him inside the house, there were probably fewer humans guarding the perimeter. The longer he hid the more likely it became that he could slip through the remaining guards and escape.


    He was beginning to think that Luphera had tricked him, and that he hadnt imagined sensing some hostility from her after all. He wasnt sure why she would be angry at him though. Hed done nothing but help her out.


    Even if a man name Najget existed, she must have known that cknail wouldnt be able to get to him nearly as easily as shed said he would. If she had tricked him then she was going to regret it. He might have to flee for now, but someday soon when she least expected it hed be back to get his revenge.


    The hobgoblin had already drawn his knife, but for now all he could do was wait, and hope the humans looking for him were even stupider than normal. The clothes inside the sack really smelled bad. What had the woman been doing when she wore them that had gotten them so smelly?


    The hobgoblins thoughts were interrupted by the sound of the rooms door bursting open. Several sets of footsteps then rushed inside. cknail instantly went still and quieted his breathing. Hed been hoping there would be fewer of them; it would be difficult to get past so many.


    I got the bed, you check the closet, someone said from the other side of the closet door.


    There was a ruckus and more than a few thuds as the men tore the room apart looking for cknail. Then the floor boards creaked as someone approached the closet. There was another creaking noise as the door was pulled open, and a flood of light illuminated the closet. cknail could make it out even from inside the sack.


    Anything in there? one of the men asked.


    A lot of womans clothes, the man by the closet answered as he looked around.


    Lets get going then; we got a lot of rooms to search, the other replied.


    One second, I should check this sack, the first man said.


    The mans shadow blocked the light as he reached towards the sack. From within his hiding spot cknail tightened his grip on his knife. The second the man looked in the sack he was going to get a knife in his eye, and an angry hobgoblin in his face.


    You think the Faceless Assassin is hiding in a whoresundry sack? Hes probably on the other side of the building by now, the second man chuckled in amusement.


    The first man paused. His hand was hovering only inches from cknail. The hobgoblins heart started pounding as he readied himself to attack.


    Malthus told us to be thorough, and check everywhere, the closer man told hispanion.


    Fine whatever, just make it quick, you disgusting pervert, the other man replied dismissively.


    The man began to reach towards the top of the sack again. cknail tensed and held his breath. If he could take the first human out before he could make any noise then he should be able to make his escape.


    Stop! everyone who is not an employee is to leave the premises immediately. All house guards are to stop searching and escort them out, a familiar female voice suddenlymanded from out in the hallway.


    Luphera projected her voice loud enough that it echoed through the hallway outside the room cknail was in, and through all the adjacent chambers as well.


    Whats this? the man reaching towards cknails hiding spot said, as he froze again.


    A secondter he stepped back and away from the concealed hobgoblin. cknail was more than a little confused as well. What was Luphera doing? He hadnt killed the Najget person yet. Had she betrayed him, ande to finish cknail off herself?


    What do you think youre doing? Stop interfering in my search! Malthus yelled back from another room.


    There was then the sound of heavy footsteps as Malthus stomped out to confront the woman.


    There is no more search, and your services are no longer required, Luphera answered disdainfully a few secondster.


    What? That hell begotten assassin is still running around this ce! Theres no way Najget cancelled our contract now. Youre going to be in a lot of trouble when he finds out about this foolishness, woman the assassin told her.


    What Najget wants also no longer matters to anyone but the gods; your men failed to protect him, and now hes dead, Luphera calmly exined.


    Thats impossible! I had two of my best men guarding him, and Herads knifeman never went anywhere near them, Malthus replied with obvious shock.


    cknail carefully nodded to himself. The annoying human assassin was right; he hadnt even seen anyone who looked anything like the man Luphera had described.


    Nheless, all three of them are now dead. I dont know how he did it, but this faceless assassin has made you and your guild look like fools, again. I understand this isnt the first time hes sneaked right past you and killed a man under your protection, Luphera pointed out.


    No, I refuse to believe that the bastard escaped me. He must have had an aplice that struck at Najget while he distracted us. That means hes still here somewhere, and I intend to find him, Malthus replied angrily.


    cknail definitely hadnt killed a group of three people. He would remember that. Had Herad sent backup, or had the humans perhaps done something stupid and killed themselves? cknail knew from experience that it was hard just keeping humans alive sometimes. Half of Herads band would be dead if he hadnt kept getting them out of trouble.


    I know theres more than one assassin here, and thats the problem. Youre disturbing our business with all this violence, and its uneptable. The only reason the assassin came here was to kill Najget because he allied himself with you, Luphera replied coldly.


    We were just here to protect our employee; we can hardly be med for him having enemies. Thats why he hired us in the first ce, Malthus responded scornfully.


    Then why have so many of you Knifemen beening and going? Im not blind. Youve been using this ce as some sort of way station or hideout, and thats uneptable. This is a brothel not a den of assassins, Luphera told him.


    Well leave when weve captured the masked assassin, and not before. Well be doing you a favor by getting rid of him anyway, Malthus countered.


    Im not an idiot. Now that Najget is dead, the other assassin will have no reason to stick around. He was smart and skilled enough topletely outy you, so hes probably already long gone. If I let you stay until you find him, then youll never leave. I have no intention of letting you control me the way you did Najget Luphera argued.


    Thats not my intention! I want that bastard''s head. Hes here somewhere, and Im going to find him! the assassin growled with barely contained fury.


    No, youre not. This is my business now, and Im telling you to leave! If you refuse then these gentlemen behind me and the many others like them throughout this building will forcibly remove you in the most unpleasant method possible, Luphera ordered the man.


    We could offer you the same deal we gave your boss, Malthus pleaded.


    Frankly, even if I required your services, and I dont, I doubt you could deliver on any promises you made. Your track recordtely has been truly pathetic, the new mistress of the house told him dismissively.


    Youll regret this, the furious sounding assassin hissed.


    I doubt it. Now get the hell out of my brothel and donte back, unless its to spend your coin on our services, Lupheramanded him coldly.


    Muttering and the sound of footsteps filled the entire floor as all the searchers started giving up and leaving. cknail was relieved when the man closest to him walked away and shut the closet door. The closet grew dark again, and the hobgoblin took a second to scratch himself now that there was no one around to see. He was getting kind of hot and sweaty.


    After a few minutes had passed the building around the hobgoblin grew quiet.


    Go make sure theyve all left. I want some privacy, Luphera then announced from where she was standing out in the hall.


    As you wish, a male voice replied before fading footsteps signaled his departure.


    That means you cane out, cknail. Its just me here now, Luphera then said aloud.


    That didnt actually make the hobgoblin feel safe, or likeing out


    He was still more than a little confused as to what had just happened, but he knew hes been tricked. He should never have agreed to help her out. She was a lying liar.


    I know youre there, and we have important things we need to discuss. I have a message for Herad that you need to deliver, the woman announced.


    cknail sighed, and reluctantly pulled himself out of the bag. It didnt smell very good in there anyway, and he couldnt stay there forever.


    He then stalked out of the closet and to the bedroom door. Silently, he peeked out into the hallway. Luphera was there, and she was alone. She also wasnt armed; hed been half expecting her to be carrying a loaded crossbow or something.


    She was however wearing more clothes than cknail had ever seen her in before. A full length purple frock with golden embroidery covered her, and she also seemed to have a new air of authority to her.


    The hobgoblin took a tentative step out into the hallway. Luphera turned towards the masked hobgoblin and smiled his way when she heard him approach.


    There you are. For a second I thought you were avoiding me, Luphera joked.


    Luphera was a little unsettling most the time, but now he thought he heard something weird in her voice. It made cknail ufortable, but he really wanted to know what was going on.


    I didnt kill Najget yet-ss, but I was totally going to-ss, he told her, as he carefully walked over.


    Luphera just smiled at him, and winked conspiratorially.


    Nonsense, I have several guards that will swear they saw you do it. Im told it was very impressive too, she responded with a chuckle.


    cknail had no idea why she was making that weird eye motion, butpared to some of the other things he didnt understand about Luphera he supposed it was nothing. The hobgoblin was also sure he would have remembered killing a man in purple with a mustache with two guards


    Well, whatever. He would have killed the man if hed found him first, so it was kind of like hed done it anyway.


    Im very good-ss at killing people, he bragged, which caused Luphera to smile.


    So Ive heard, its also very impressive how you led that idiot Malthus on such a merry chase, and avoided him so effortlessly, she said appreciatively as she stepped closer to him.


    Yes, Im very stealthy; even when Im right beside them people cant see me, cknail told her arrogantly.


    It was even technically true sometimes, like when it was very dark or when he was hiding in a sack. All of a sudden cknail felt Lupheras hand on his shoulder. He flinched in surprise. When had she gotten so close?


    Wait, he was doing it again! He was letting Lupheras words and smiles distract him. He had to focus.


    You lied about-ss how easy the job would be. I think you tried to trick me. Why? cknail asked her suspiciously.


    Lupheras grin broadened and took on a slightly sinister look. cknail instinctively took a step back away from her.


    I owed you one, or it might be more urate to say you owed me one. I know that it was you who killed Galive, and he wasnt the only one that died that night. There was a woman, and while I barely knew her, she was still one of mine, Luphera exined.


    cknail frowned as he thought about her words. He did remember killing a woman who had been in bed with Galive. He hadnt really had a choice though; she would have messed everything up. Had she been of Lupheras tribe and not Galives? Human tribes sure wereplicated.


    Sorry-ss, I didnt know she was yours. She was going-ss to mess things up, cknail exined reluctantly.


    Did this mean they were enemies now? The hobgoblin''s left hand crept closer to the dagger he kept hidden in his coat, but Luphera didn''t make any hostile moves.


    Thats alright, you didn''t know, and youve almost paid me back now. Theres just one more thing you can do for me, she told him as she walked closer.


    Now cknail was very ufortable. He took another step backwards, but Luphera glided effortlessly after him. She was impressively nimble on her feet


    Um right-ss, I need to go back to Herad you said you had-ss a message for her? cknail remarked nervously.


    Running away to another woman, eh? How mean. Well, youre not going anywhere until I get a chance to properly thank you. Why dont you take your mask off and rx with me? Luphera asked him yfully, as she smiled knowingly.


    I cant do that I was told-ss not to, because um... magic, the hobgoblin replied nervously.


    The woman just smiled at his response though, and took his hand. cknail flinched.


    I don''t believe you. Could the real reason be because underneath of it youre not human? Dont worry a bit of green skin isnt going to scare me off. It sounds exciting, actually Luphera told him excitedly with a hungry smile.


    cknails eyes went very wide. Hed been kind of hoping it would though and wait, she knew he was a hobgoblin. Hed been found out! How had she figured it out? He was a great pretender, and had acted exactly like a human at all times. Someone must have let the secret slip. It had probably been Khita, she practically never shut up.


    Why are you so surprised? Knowing things is my business, or half of it anyway. I look forward to showing you the other half very shortly, Luphera exined flirtatiously.


    Her closeness and the scent of her skin caused a shiver to work its way down the hobgoblins spine, and thene to rest below his gut. He smelled a lingering trace of the perfume from before on her clothes, and it began to do strange things to his head.

 Interlude: The Light of Faith 1

    Interlude: The Light of Faith 1


    Sir Masnin of Westspring Hill rode into town and wondered what difference a handful of peasants made. The town of Breststock did not seem to suffer for theck of them.


    The market square was filled with busy merchants stalls, and the locals were going about their business without any apparent concern for the alleged disappearances, or the party of seven armed strangers who now walked amongst them.


    Lowborn wives examined goods from wooden stalls, asborers moved and unloaded wagons across the wide cobbled streets. The town''s buildings showed the wealth of the area with painted wooden doors and shutters; most were wide open to let in the days sun. They were obviously far from the frontline of the war here.


    He''d expected a very different sort of wee and wasn''t sure what bothered him more, the idea that he''d volunteered for a wild hob chase, or that they would find what they hade looking for.


    The only people the knight had spotted so far who showed any signs of fear were the condemned criminals on disy and awaiting sentencing in their cramped cages. Their thin frames and fearful eyes marked them as petty thieves or debtors. It was always possible they were deserters from the army though.


    The young knight quickly dismissed the criminals from his mind; he was unwilling to dwell too much on fear or poverty. He turned his attention back to the town, imitating the older knights that led his group.


    For thest several days, he had been working to make a good impression with the senior knights and their leader, the pdin Sire In. He was not just a holy warrior of the Order of Helio-Lustria but also a captain who heldnd and a title in the orders name.


    Masnin of Westspring had eagerly answered the pdin''s call for noble men to join him on a mission for his order. He was the third son of a minor knight with nonds of his own, and that meant he would have to make his own way in the world.


    Most young men in his position would have ridden off to war and joined the kings army, but he had no intention of joining the legions of men who had died seeking their fortune in the wars. Despite all the promises, Masnin hadnt noticed very many soldiers or knights returning home with titles or plunder. He hadnt noticed very many of them returning at all.


    The best way to avoid that, and the shame of poverty, was for him to join an order, but there were only two ways to do that. You could be sponsored at a young age and raised by the order, or a knight with a few brave feats to his name could be invited. Well, that or use connections his humble upbringing didn''t give him. He would have to make do by disying the dignity and skill of a true knight.


    If you keep grimacing like that you''ll pull a muscle, and then your face will stay like that forever, said a voice from beside him.


    Masnin turned to the speaker, a man one or two years older than himself with newer armor than his own and a foolish grin on his face.


    What? asked Masnin, caught off guard.


    That silly look on your face, Sir Rusk said. I''ve seen it happen before. For the rest of your life you''ll be cursed to walk around looking like youre constipated.


    I don''t have a look on my face, he replied, annoyed.


    If you say so, the smiling Sir Rusk shrugged in reply.


    Masnin tried to rx his face, not because he thought the other knight was right, but to hide his annoyance. Sir Rusk of the Toppling Hills had been his bane for the entire journey.


    It seemed like all attempts to distinguish himself ended with him being overshadowed or ridiculed by the blond knight. Not only was he the perfect picture of a pdin with his new armor and broad shoulders, but he came from a wealthy and well connected family.


    Masnin''s own thin frame betrayed the past few years he had spent traveling the countryside and living off the hospitality of country lords. Not all of them had been very weing.


    The young knight gripped the hilt of his sword and tried to banish his anxiety. If he was to have any chance of bing a pdin, he would need to be ready to risk his life.


    This is the ce sir, reported Sir Annis, the pdin who was second inmand of the mission.


    Its as good a spot as any, replied their leader, Sire In.


    Sir Annis, who was short but heavily built, led the group to arge andfortable looking inn. One of the taller buildings in the town at three stories high, the inn was clearly meant for the better ss of travelers; the kind of ce he hadn''t been able to stay at since he became a knight.


    The sign that hung from the front of the building disyed the unlikely sight of a horses head with a burningntern hanging from its mouth. It was a clear invocation of Mesa-Min the god of travelers and curiosity, as opposed to the seedier patron of darkness and shelter, Cor-Dius.


    Masnin stood straight and watched intently as the expedition leader dismounted and marched up the stairs of the building. Captain In then turned to address his men from the raised porch there.


    I''m sure you are all tired from your journey, he said. We have much work to do tonight and many things left to do before then. Annis and I will invoke the Writ and round up some support in preparation for tonight. I expect you all to be ready to go when we return, but other than that you gentlemen can rx and prepare yourselves. We should be back well before dark.


    With that said, the pdin turned and left. Annis followed behind him. The other riders began to dismount and tie up their horses. Those knights who had squires handed their mounts over to them to be taken away, and Masnin gave his to a nearby stable boy.


    Finally, said Rusk as he led the others inside. I thought we''d be riding all day and night without rest.


    Masnin didnt reply. He considered it unseemly for a knight toin or engage in idle banter.


    They entered the inn and found it full of customers enjoying themon area. He and hispanions all made their way to the bar, where arge and friendly man assured them he would handle bringing in their possessions and make sure their horses were taken care of properly.


    Despite the friendly and professional atmosphere, Masnin couldn''t bring himself to let someone else handle his possessions unwatched. He had little enough to steal, but that only made his scant belongings more precious to him. He walked back outside to watch.


    The stable boy ignored the young knight as he did his work. Masnin grabbed his bag and was just about to leave when he heard the sound of the shutters being shut and locked. He turned back to the stable boy and saw him do the same thing to the stable doors. He frowned; it was already ufortably hot in the building


    Do you usually shutter the windows during the day? asked Masnin curiously. It''s a bright and warm day today with a few hours of sun left.


    The boy stopped and looked embarrassed.


    I just don''t want to forget, he replied.


    Masnin eyed the young boy critically. There was something going unsaid and he wanted to know what it was. He casually moved between the boy and the door.


    Problems with theft? he asked, trying to sound kindly.


    No, the boy said very quickly. I was just told to make sure is all,


    Masnin had been in enough stables to know this was far from standard practice, especially in such a thriving little town. Wheels turned in his mind, perhaps the missing people hadn''t gone as unnoticed as it seemed.


    Oh, why is that? he asked.


    Da, just said to make sure. Been doing it for a week. Ever since... the boy said before stopping suddenly.


    Since what? The young knight asked intently.


    The boy however held his silence and just stared at him.


    By the light of Helio-Lustria, pup, just answer the question, the knight eximed.


    The boy just gave him an unimpressed look before looking at the exit. He clearly wanted to leave.


    Masnin didnt like being ignored though, and he wanted to know the answer to his damn question. The information sounded like it could be usefulter, and he needed every advantage he could get.


    The knight cast a suspicious nce around the stable. He would have to take extreme measures if he wanted answers, and it wouldn''t do to be seen. He reached down to his belt and grabbed his coin purse. It was depressingly light in his grasp. He riffled through it until he felt the familiar shape of a penny in his fingers, and then he took it out and held it in front of the boy.


    Since what? he repeated.


    Two nights ago, a guard went missing in the night. Everybody was talking about it because he had a wife and kids. And then people started talking about how others had gone missing, but nobody really noticed they were missing because they didn''t have no families. That''s all I know, honest, The boy whispered back, as he took the coin.


    Masnin stepped out of the boy''s way. He grabbed his baggage from his saddle and turned to follow the boy out of the stable, and into the hallway that led to themon room.


    When he returned to themon room, the only one of hispanions he saw was Rusk, who was sitting by himself. He didn''t really like Rusk but he was short on friends, and as fellow knights and brothers in arms they should learn to get along.


    Rusk watched him sit down with a smile on his face and a mug in his hand. Masnin really hoped the man wasnt getting drunk while they had a job to do. That would be embarrassing for everyone in their party.


    Where are the other two? asked Masnin.


    They''re just enjoying the town''s hospitality, said Rusk. Seems like a friendly ce, one appreciates handsome young knights on a holy mission.


    You didnt go with them? Masnin asked with a raised eyebrow.


    From what hed seen of Rusk the man wasnt one to pass up an opportunity to have fun.


    Good thingse to those who wait. Rusk said as he gave Masnin a look over. Youre decent looking enough in a tall dark and broody kind of way. With the number of friendly young women around you should have no trouble findingpanionship yourself,


    Are they just friendly? Masnin asked inquisitively.


    You suspect a sinister plot? Rusk replied with a smile.


    I suspect that everyone here is not as carefree as they appear to be, and apanion who''s handy with a de might be more important than good looks, the other knight answered.


    Masnin took some small pleasure in Rusk losing his smile.


    Had''s horn, the blond knight said miserably. And I thought the most difficult thing I would be called upon to do today was choosing a bedpanion.


    Not likely, sighed Masnin. We''re probably going to be hunting ghouls.


    An hourter, In returned and set them about their work. The pdin didn''t mention what investigation he had done but his preparations were obvious.


    The main streets of the town were lit by braziers and torches. Masnin noted that thergest braziers were decorated with the markings of Helio-Lustria, the god most opposed to ghouls. The veteran pdin clearly believed that there were ghouls about, and Masnin had no reason to doubt him.


    He paired Rusk and Masnin together and assigned them an area of the town; a dark patch of twisting alleyways. The winding streets stopped the light from shining far and the untidy buildings that lined them cast shadows across every surface.


    They were to patrol it together and summon aid with a horn if they encountered anything. Under no circumstances were they to split up or leave their area unless summoned by another horn.


    Armed only with their swords and torches they walked the streets. Masnin would have preferred a silent vigil but that apparently wasn''t an option.


    What did you do to piss off In? asked Rusk for the third time.


    Perhaps him giving us the most difficult patch is a sign of trust, returned Masnin with obvious annoyance.


    Why did it have to be him whod angered their leader? Rusks behavior was much worse than his own. If anyone had done something wrong it had undoubtedly been him.


    Ha! More likely one of your brothers once bedded his nephews wife, said Rusk as his eyes peered out into the dark. Or one of the other knights is his nephew and he''s removing thepetition.


    Sire In is a holy knight of Helio, and I''d appreciate it if you didn''t besmirch the name of my happily married brothers, Masnin replied angrily.


    I.. Rusk started to say, but he fell silent as they both heard a scratching sound.


    The two young knights stopped moving and considered the darkness around them. Neither one of them could see very well. There could be anything out there


    Masnin moved his torch slowly, trying to illuminate as much of the street as possible. From around a corner he heard the definite sound of footsteps on cobble. After a moment of hesitation he dashed forwards and around the corner.


    He heard Rusk swear lightly and follow him. Turning the corner revealed a dark humanoid shape facing away from them. Masnin caught up to it quickly and readied his sword to strike, but something shoved him lightly from behind and sent him stumbling.


    Surrender now or die! said a voice from behind him that Masnin recognized as Rusk. The other knight had hit him! Why would he do that and why was he talking to the...


    I surrender! said the man who was apparently not a ghoul.


    The figure turned to reveal a gaunt but unmistakably human face wearing dark clothing and a crude blue cowl. The man looked like the more dramatic kind of thief. He was definitely just a man though.


    Masnin felt a wave of shame wash over him. He had been a single moment away from stabbing a man in the back. That was the very antithesis of knightly behavior, even if the man had probably been nothing more than amon born thief.


    I won''t even ask why youre skulking around, said Rusk, with his de still drawn. But get inside or I guarantee you won''t survive the night.


    While Masnin watched the figure nod and scurry back away into the darkness, Rusk turned his back to the man and confronted Masnin.


    Youre a little too eager for blood, hemented gruffly.


    I.. I made a mistake. Thank you for stopping me, Masnin said honestly.


    Yes well, the situation calls for quick actions. Just remember to temper them with caution. I imagine the town would be a lot less friendly if we left a trail of bodies behind us, and it seems like we might be here for a few days, the blond knight replied, as he paused to consider the empty night.


    Masnin just nodded in reply. Not only had he almost killed that man but he had no doubt scared away any ghouls in the area. When he voiced that opinion to Rusk however, the other knight disagreed.


    You said one of the missing men was a guard, so I think we may be dealing with brazen predators, he said.


    Suddenly, Masnin heard something. It seemed like a startled grunt from the direction the fool he had almost killed earlier had gone.


    Once more he dashed forwards. The man could have put a bit of distance between them, but the sound had seemed toe from not that far away. Masnin held his sword out as he scanned his surroundings. The alley was empty; had he misheard? There was no ce to hide here


    What is it, asked Rusk with concern, keeping close behind him.


    Shh, I thought I heard a sound, Masnin whispered, as he stilled himself and tried to slow his breathing.


    After several seconds of listening he heard nothing though, so he sighed. It seemed he''d embarrassed himself once more.


    Let''s get out of the dark, he said. It''s making me paranoid.


    Sir Rusk did not reply though, he was staring upwards. Masnin followed Rusk''s gaze until it came to rest upon a piece of cloth that was hanging out of reach off the side of the sheer ally wall.


    He immediately recognized it as the same cloth the man theyd run into had been wearing, but now it had dark patches that could only be bloodstains all over it.


    Masnin was taller than Rusk so he caught the fabric with his sword and pulled it down. Something had shredded it and left a hollow sharp point stuck in the fabric. It appeared to be a w of some kind


    Ghouls? asked Rusk nervously.


    Masnin stared up into the night sky and considered the w. It may have been his imagination but he thought he saw the stars flicker quickly as somethingrge and as ck as midnight passed overhead.


    By all the gods together, I certainly hope not, he replied in spooked voice.

 Interlude: The Light of Faith 2

    Interlude: The Light of Faith 2


    Sir In considered the cloth and the w just as seriously as Masnin had, and with just as little enthusiasm. Rusk and Masnin had decided against sounding their horn, and instead theyd gone to meet the captain at the inn that they were using as their headquarters. Thiste at night, themon room was deserted except for In, Annis, and a handful of theirpanions.


    Youre sure you heard the attack take ce in the alley, not above it? Sir Annis asked.


    The pdin didn''t sound disbelieving, just professional. Masnin tried to reply in the same tone.


    Yes sir, I have no doubt about that, he replied stiffly.


    In grunted and turned to the mage he had recruited. The grey haired but hearty looking man had apparently shown up in town shortly after theyd arrived. Hed been sent by his guild to support the pdins in case there actually was a ghoul infestation. The Militant Order of Helio-Lustria had a charter from the king that allowed them to summon help from the mage guilds in such emergencies.


    The mage wore a robe with the Fiery Eye on it. Masnin had seen a few of them before, however this ones staff was more ornate andplicated than those carried by the fodder that the guild usually produced for the army. He was also older, with a trim white beard and lines under his eyes.


    What do you make of this, Roilg? Sir In asked the mage.


    I don''t recognize the w asing from any particr creature. However, there is one test I can run that might be enlightening. The other man replied in a baritone voice.


    The mage then produced a ss vial from a pocket sewn into his vest. Masnin noticed that there were many more such pockets inside there. He had no idea what the mage could possibly need them all for.


    Roilg the mage carefully poured a single drop of the clear liquid from inside the vial onto the w. When the fluid hit the talon it let out a faint hiss, and wisps of quickly disappearing ck smoke began swirling up from it. Masnin watched intently; he had rarely seen magic at work, even magic as mundane as this.


    Well, I can say with absolute surety that this talon came from a mutant, although I have no clue as to what manner of creature it started as. Im rtively certain thats it''s not an herbivore though. Roilg exined as he frowned down at the w with a concerned expression.


    In cursed out loud, and at his side Annis paled a little. Their reactions shocked Masnin. Was a flying foe so hard to deal with? Surely these two veteran pdins had dealt with this sort of thing many times before. Masnin didn''t consider it appropriate to voice his thoughts aloud, but Rusk did.


    Abominations such as a crystal host can be deadly foe, but surely they arent as terrible as an outbreak of the unholy gue? the young knight asked from his seat at the inn''s bar.


    The mage snorted grumpily in response. Sir In turned and considered the two pdin hopefuls. He considered the question worth answering though, which pleased Masnin.


    Ghouls can do more damage than just about anything. A full blown ghoul epidemic is a nightmare beyond imagining. Theyve gutted cities in the past, but that hasn''t happened in ages. The unholy gue and its bearers are an old foe and one we understand, so they usually can be predicted and exterminated before they do too much damage, Sir In exined.


    Mutants however are cursed unpredictable things. They might, like this one, kill only one person a night, but stopping a powerful beast such as this is much more dangerous for the hunters. So far all we know about this thing is that it''s a night hunter with ws and a taste for human flesh, Sir Annis added.


    We know it flies, interjected Masnin. He had seen enough to know that.


    Do we? asked Sir In. Then he smiled benignly at Masnin''s answering frown.


    I dont doubt your word, but crystal hosts can be tricky. Can you say for sure that it doesn''t levitate, walk on walls like they were t ground, or turn invisible? the older knight rified.


    Those are real possibilities? asked Masnin in shock.


    He didn''t like considering that the gods would arm the enemies of humanity with such strange and powerful abilities. Had the creature really flown away? Now Masnin couldn''t be so sure of what hed seen or assumed.


    Beside him Rusk looked just as shocked as him, which made Masnin feel better. Apparently, he hadnt been the only one ignorant of all this.


    They are; all of those abilities have been documented by the guilds. Information on mutants is one of the few things shared amongst the guilds, answered Roilg.


    So we will need a new n for tomorrow night. This creature has already proven that the patrols are useless, and they were undertaken with ghouls in mind anyway, Sir Annis told everyone.


    What do you suggest we do instead, then? Sir In asked his subordinate.


    I believe that tomorrow night we should get everyone off the streets, everyst ckguard and streetwalker. Then, we bait the creature and lure it into a trap,


    Bait? I can think of only one thing you could use to bait this man-eater. That seems like a deadly task, considering what we know about the creature. I doubt you''re volunteering yourself,mented Sir In with a raised eyebrow.


    We could use the condemned in the square, Sir Annis replied stonily.


    The older Pdin''s face showed no remorse at using living men as disposable tools. Sir In looked thoughtful, but also more than a little reluctant. He didnt seempletelyfortable with the idea of using men, even criminals, to lure the beast into an ambush. Masnin couldnt read the mages face at all.


    Masnin himself frowned as he considered Sir Annis n. It seemed like it might work, no one was offering any other options, but there was a serious problem with it. It wouldnt give Masnin a chance to prove himself, and he desperately needed to show these men his worth.


    I volunteer, offered Masnin, surprising even himself.


    The others all looked at him in surprise. Rusk seemed particrly shocked, and was looking at Masnin like he was crazy. Maybe he was, or maybe he was just desperate. He couldnt live the rest of his life as a knight errant. The constant travelling and dependence on charity was already wearing him down.


    We already know it''ll target armed men, because it killed that guard. The n has a better chance of sess if the bait can fight. If we use the criminals if might just snatch one up and disappear, but itll find a trained and armed knight a much more difficult target he exined reluctantly to the other knights.


    Sir In gave the volunteer a long look, taking his measure. Masnin returned the look, and did his best to look stoic and brave. He wasnt sure how well he seeded.


    Fine, I ept your offer and acknowledge your courage, proimed In. Helio-Lustria''s blessing on you. May the sun god shield you against this creature of darkness.


    Youre going to need it, Masnin heard Rusk mutter quietly.


    The young knight didnt get a lot of sleep that night. He spent the next morning and afternoon thinking about all the things that could go wrong with the n. They didnt even know what the beast looked like


    Masnin was up early the next morning to help the pdins set up the trap. When dusk finally came and darkness nketed the town, Masnin found himself sitting alone in the middle of a small unlit square staring into arge brazier filled with water. He cursed his courage and the fate that had led him here.


    The brazier had been Roilg''s idea. Hed raised the possibility that the creature wouldn''t attack if its prey kept checking the skies for it. So hed proposed using the reflective surface of the water as a mirror.


    In it, Masnin could easily make out the stars above him. The young knight sighed. Asst sights went he supposed the reflected night sky was a decent one. If only he could be sure that it wasnt full of evil mutant beasts that wanted to eat him


    Masnin strained his hearing as he watched the reflection of the skies. Listening not only for the monster, but for the reassuring sounds of hispanions and the town guards hidden away in the homes and shops around him.


    The n was that when he engaged the monster sharpshooters would fire on it from the windows above. Roilg was also around, but he hadnt participated in the nning. Hed just said that he would do whatever was necessary.


    That hadnt reassured the young knight. In fact, it had almost made him think the mage was going to set the entire square on fire. He was a hard man to read.


    As Masnin pondered all the ways he could die within the next few hours he felt an odd tingling sensation on the back of his neck as his hair rose. Instantly, he concentrated on the reflection in the brazier, and noticed a patch of stars flickering up in the sky above him.


    He rolled. Not forwards, but backwards to his knees as an acrobat might do. As a country knight he''d been hunting enough to know that even the dumbest predators would try to predict how their prey would dodge them.


    Now! he screamed, as he prepared himself for the worst. It was a wasted effort.


    Standing before him was a creature seemingly made of living darkness that stood a story tall. It had swooped into the square without a sound and having missed him, spun around with speed that was just unfair in a creature that big.


    The unseen thing seemed to swell and contract in size as it moved to strike him. It almost seemed to be a living shadow as it rose like a ck wave to sweep him aside. His gut clenched with fear as he realized he wouldnt be able to block the blow.


    Luckily, the attack never came, instead a swarm of quarrels buzzed through the air and into the shape. The beast didnt make a sound as it contracted back into itself, withdrawing. Just as soon as it had shrunk, it swelled again and somehow the writhing ck massunched itself upwards and into the sky. A gust of dusty wind swept into Masnin''s face and forced him to shield it with his arm.


    It seemed like the creature was going to escape when a loud crack filled the air and the unseen thing suddenly was thrown into the side of a building. The wooden wall the creature was thrown into wasn''t solid enough to stop it. With a snap it burst through,nded inside the building, and disappeared.


    Masnin''s allies were busy though. A dozen armed men streamed out of the nearby homes and into the square to stop the creature from escaping. Masnin moved to join them, stopping with the rest just short of the building.


    No one moved to enter it though, as it was filled with an eerie and unnatural darkness. Even as men began lighting the braziers andmps outside on the street, the mes failed to prate the shadows.


    Aside, came an authoritative voice.


    It was the mage Roilg, who no doubt had been the one who had grounded the creature so dramatically. The mage walked up beside Masnin and frowned at the darkness. Quick as thought, his hands yed along his staff like a musical instrument. His seemed to shift and change shape under his hands, and secondster a stream of bright light burst forth into the building.


    It failed to illuminate anything; if anything it only defined the darkness more. There were mutters of fear and shock from the guardsmen and even some of the knights, as they realized the inside of the building was impervious even to his magical light. It almost seemed to be a pitch ck wall that you could reach out and touch.


    There were murmurs of fear and whispers of demon from the men. Masnin himself felt a cold fear in his chest as he stared into that lightless abyss. If ever a true demon walked the world, it was this creature of darkness.


    Fear not darkness. Do not waver before uncertainty, proimed Sir In the pdin as he approached the darkness.


    It''s just a mutant, and weve cornered and wounded it now. The darkness only hides it; it does not protect it from our steel. Fire into the building and finish the thing off! he proimed.


    His words had an effect. Men pressed forward and drew strength from each other. Masnin let out a breath he didn''t know he had been holding. He rxed slightly and got ready to move again. He still needed to impress the pdins; volunteering wasnt enough, he would have to actually engage the creature.


    The crossbowmen were still in the windows of the square. Only Sir Annis was in position to fire into the building. He raised his crossbow and fired. Nothing happened. With a practiced motion he reloaded and was about to fire again, when quick as thought the darkness flowed over him. He had just enough time to begin raising the crossbow when it engulfed him.


    There was a terrible scream and a wet tearing sound. Masnin jumped in shock and took a fearful step back. It had killed the pdin so effortlessly, and he was probably next!


    Men cried out in shock and quarrels were fired desperately at the living shadow. Roilg sent a wave of fire into it without apparent effect. It only illuminated the scared faces of the guardsmen with flickering orange light.


    Masnin saw the dark creature subtly swell in the mage''s direction and knew it was considering the mage. If the creature got to him then the fight would be over. The guards would surely flee, and they might be right to do so. The living darkness showed no weakness or fear.


    Should he retreat? Nothing theyd done had seemed to work at all. Retreating was probably the smart thing to do.


    What would he be running to, though? No, he couldnt run. I would be better to die here with honor than to shame his family by fleeing.


    He sprinted forwards at what he could only guess was the rear of the creature, and raised his de. With a primal roar he unleashed all his pent up frustration and terror and channeled it into one attack. If he was going to die then there was no point in keeping it all bottled up anymore!


    The edge of his sword sliced into the shadow and kept going. His heart missed a beat and he despaired. Just like the rest of his life his death would be pointless


    A sudden tug on his arms brought him back to reality, his de had found purchase. Hed hit something!


    His relief was short lived; the shifting darkness before him spasmed, and then reached out to envelop him. A secondter, something mmed into him, and he was sent flying through the air.


    Hended hard, and his armor scraped against the rubble and cobblestone that littered the street.


    Masnin didnt know how long hey there stunned and staring up at the night sky, but when he finally got to his feet he found the situation had gone downhill.


    Roilg was down, andy crumpled up against a nearby wall, while a guard stood over him protectively. Masnin wasn''t sure why the creature hadn''t finished the mage off.


    Without the power of the mage, the men were retreating from the unseen thing. Several braziers had been tipped over in the struggle, and their fiery contents had spilled across the road. Even with the very earth ame no light prated the mass of shadows that moved among the guardsmen.


    Masnin backed away and waited for someone to do something; for someone to bring order to the confusion. No one stepped up. Sir In was nowhere to be seen, and Sir Annis was dead. The only one of their group he could see was Rusk, who seemed even less inclined to action than him.


    The other knight noticed Masnin though, and quickly made his way over to him. Rusk kept one eye on the creature as moved. Masnin watched hime over numbly. He was tired and sore, he couldn''t imagine what he could possibly do to help the situation.


    Surely this was more than the gods could demand of him. He had been brave and valorous. It hadn''t been enough. All he''d aplished was to watch brave men die futilely.


    Surely if the gods wanted more from him, they would send him a sign; a light to guide him.


    Rusk was only a half dozen feet away from him when he stumbled and fell. His feet slipped out from beneath him and hended on his ass with a crash.


    Without thinking, Masnin moved to help the other knight up, and offered the only remaining knight a hand.


    What a cursed night, the other man said raggedly. I slipped on some unlucky man''s blood. I''ll take that as an omen. It''s time to go.


    Masnin stopped and considered this. As Rusk regained his footing, the young knight''s gaze took in the square. The creature remained standing in the centre, and the remaining men were more concerned with retreating safely than attacking it. All around the square dark liquid pooled around the cobbles of the street.


    It was blood, too much blood. It couldnt all havee from the soldiers. Masnin nced down at his de. It was faint, but the reflective surface of the steel was marred by dark red liquid.


    It can bleed Masnin eximed with sudden hope. It only seemed invincible!


    What? asked a confused Rusk. Did yound on your head earlier?


    Theres flesh beneath the darkness; its bleeding! Masnin said again, louder and clearer this time as he held up his sword for Rusk to see.


    The other knights eyes widened as they took in the blood that stained Masnins de. The fluid was clearly visible as the nearby mes reflected off the steel. Masnin didnt wait for a reply. He yelled and charged the beast again.


    The only way the mutant could be bleeding and yet still standing was if the veil of shadows that surrounded it were much bigger than the actual creature, and almost all the attacks were missing it. That meant it couldnt be much bigger than a man.


    The beast froze and stopped chasing a fleeing guard, as it somehow sensed Masnins approach. The young knight eyed the swirling darkness before him as he moved. He would probably only have one chance at this. Where was the actual beast?


    Once again as he neared the darkness stretched out and consumed him. Masnin was instantly blinded. His heart pounded in his chest and his throat felt tight, but he took several steps deeper into the darkness.


    He heard a scratching noise, and instantly he struck towards it. He felt his de bite deep, and heard an inhuman screech echo through the darkness. Then something smashed into his breastte and knocked him backwards. His de flew loosely away from his numb hands.


    He was sent sprawling across the ground, but he ignored the pain and pushed himself up onto his side. He needed to see the creature.


    A little over a dozen feet away the dark mass of shadows that concealed the mutant was writhing energetically, but it was also shrinking. As Masnin and everyone else watched, the creatures magic disappeared to reveal whaty beneath it.


    Long twisted limps with tight membranes that stretched between them framed a skinny body, and a truly hideous face. Several arrows protruded from its flesh, and its furry hide had a long bleeding gash across it. It twitched there on the ground and its wings were tattered. The mutant was a giant bat!


    Masnin copsed again, and sighed in relief. As hey there on the cold stone ground, the young knight breathed in the cool midnight air. This was what knights were meant to do, y monsters. Masnin felt his earlier fear and frustration slip away as he reveled in his victory. He had been a hero and a true knight!


    Even if he didnt end up bing a pdin, he would still always know that his life hadnt been wasted.

 Queen of Swords 1

    Queen of Swords 1


    The cloaked hobgoblin tiptoed silently down the shadowy hallway. The dull noonday sun shone in through the nearby windows, but he kept out of the light and in the dark. Since this passage was rarely used for anything but storage, it didnt get a lot of traffic and the windows were the only source of light.


    cknail could hear the creak and thud of people''s footsteps moving around him, but none of them seemed to be moving in his direction, and that was good. He wanted to avoid detection at all costs. Hede fairly close to being caught earlier when a guard had walked by, but cknail had managed to duck aside and hide behind a shelf at thest second.


    His heart still hadnt slowed to its normal speed and was thudding in his chest. It would be very bad if he was discovered, and cknail didnt even want to think about the consequences. He had to stay hidden from the humans no matter what!


    Of course that was never going to happen. Hed proven over and over again that mere humans couldnt detect a hobgoblin like him. He was the dreaded Faceless Assassin, and Herads undefeated sneaky killer!


    What in all the hells are you doing, cknail? Saeter asked from right behind him.


    The unexpected voice slipped into the hobgoblins ears, and his heart exploded in panic. He jumped several feet into the air. He hadnt heard anyone approaching! Oh no, it was master Saeter.


    When cknail hit the ground, he was already dashing away down the hallway as fast as his feet would carry him. Hed been found; he had to escape, and quickly!


    Stop right there, you little green idot! Come back here, or I swear Ill go get my bow and hunt you down through Daggerpoint and all thend beyond it, Saeter barked loudly.


    cknail believed him; he could hear the stubborn certainty in his masters voice. When he used that tone there was no arguing with him, and he always did what he said he would, no matter how stupid or dangerous it was.


    The hobgoblin stopped running, wentpletely still, and let out a pitiful whimper. This was the worst possible oue; why did it have to be his master that had found him?


    The urge to flee and hide was overwhelming, but he knew that wouldnt work. Saeter would find him soon enough. He was incredibly annoying like that.


    Right, nowe back here, Saeter ordered impatiently.


    The hobgoblin sighed and obeyed. With his head down he walked sullenly back to his master. He didnt dare meet his eyes.


    Lose the hood, and look at me, his master ordered next.


    He sounded very annoyed, so cknail reluctantly pulled his hood down and met the old scouts gaze. Saeter looked him over inquisitively for a few seconds, and his expression changed from an angry look to a concerned one.


    The hobgoblin cringed and had to turn away a few secondster. What if his master could smell something? What if it showed? His master spoke up.


    What bloody nonsense has gotten into you, cknail? Youve been acting weird, and avoiding everyone since you returned from chasing those assassins. You told Herad that they got away after a brief fight, and she didnt question it. She doesnt know you like I do though, and Ill eat my boots if thats what really happened, he asked the hobgoblin quietly, so that no one would overhear.


    Yes, it is. That totally happened, cknail replied nervously, as his anxious eyes wandered around the room.


    Saeter just red at the hobgoblin stubbornly; he obviously wasnt convinced. cknail withered under his masters gaze for several seconds. The hobgoblin knew that Saeter wasnt going to let up until he got an answer, so obviously he had to lie through his teeth.


    cknail looked up and met his masters eyes. He licked his lips with his long tongue nervously as his brain worked feverishly toe up with the greatest lie ever told.


    I got lost he muttered a secondter.


    His master crossed his arms and gave the hobgoblin an unamused stare.


    cknail winced and groaned regretfully. Why had he said that? That was a stupid lie, and totally unconvincing! Why hadnt he thought of anything better?


    Ovee with shame, the hobgoblin flipped his hood back up to hide his face. He then crouched down in order to make himself as small as possible. Maybe if he just stayed like this his master would eventually get bored and leave


    Saeter groaned in annoyance at cknails behavior.


    Seriously? he remarked in disbelief.


    The old scout then reached down and pulled cknails hood off. He opened his mouth as if to say something, but then froze.


    Are you blushing? he asked in surprise, as he took in the hobgoblins face.


    There was a startled look on Saeters face. cknails usual green features had a faint reddish purple cast to them, especially around the cheeks. It certainly seemed like he was doing the hobgoblin equivalent of blushing.


    cknail opened his mouth to respond and deny everything, but then he stopped. He did sort of want to talk to someone.


    Last night, his experience with Luphera had been very different. The memory caused cknail to flinch, and he felt his face burn hotter. Luphera didnt act or look anything like a female goblin, so why had he let her drag him around by his handsome nose?


    He felt used, and he had no idea what hed been thinking. That terrifying scent and her hungry smile had just done something weird to his head, and other parts of his body.


    Luphera had invited him back, but there was no way he was ever going to do that! He felt dizzy just thinking about it. At first his instincts had taken over, but once theyd died down hed had no idea what he was doing there.


    What if hed done something wrong? No, there was no way he was ever going to go back! How was he supposed to be around humans now? What if they could smell her on him? Their noses couldnt be that bad, could they? He didnt want anyone to know.


    Saeter coughed impatiently as he stood over the red faced hobgoblin. cknails mouth hung open, but he had yet to say anything.


    Theres this woman he muttered a secondter, as the truth burst out of him unexpectedly.


    Saeters face went through several stages. First his eyes narrowed in confusion, then he frowned doubtfully, then his eyes widened with shock and worry, until finally his expression settled into a look that portrayed deep but sad wisdom. The old grey haired scout reached out and put a hand on cknails shoulder.


    There always is, he sagely told the confused hobgoblin.


    There was a weird twist to Saeters smile, and his eyes also seemed a little odd. cknail didnt care though, he was just relieved his master wasnt... overreacting. He grinned happily as he began unburdening himself. There was no way his wonderful and ever so wise master would make fun of him.


    You see..., a relieved cknail began exining.


    Nope, keep it to yourself, Saeter interjected quickly, as his one eye twitched.


    But, the hobgoblin eximed in confusion.


    Some things you need to solve for yourself, his master exined simply with a nk face. Nowe with me, Herad wants us.


    cknail then watched in confusion as his master turned around and headed for the door.


    Ugh, I dont even want to think about it, Saeter muttered quietly to himself a few secondster, as he shivered slightly.


    What had just happened? The hobgoblin was d his master didnt seem to care, that was obviously the best oue, but he also felt more than a little slighted.


    Saeter should have at least listened a little bit. Not that cknail wanted to tell him anything, of course. Yet surely, the whole situation was interesting and worth talking about, right?


    The confused hobgoblin was left there crouching on the floor of the hallway all by himself. He stared after his master for a second before his thoughts untangled themselves. Then with a start, he remembered that Saeter had told him that hed been summoned by Herad.


    Quickly, he got up and hurried after his master. No matter how embarrassed he was it would still be a terrible idea to anger the chieftain. He was fairly certain he couldnt actually die of embarrassment, but he couldnt say the same thing about being stabbed.


    cknail quickly caught up with Saeter, and then followed him to the other side of the building. Their destination soon became apparent; it was the sitting room where theyd met with their mistress after Galives death.


    Saeter walked right in, but cknail took a second to peek around the doorway before entering. He was still feeling more than a little shy, and didnt want to run into any unpleasant surprises.


    Herad was lounging back on a sofa in the middle of the room, and was scowling darkly at everyone she saw. The bandit chieftain definitely seemed to be in a bad mood. She was wearing pair of long ck trousers, and a dark brown leather vest over a ck shirt. She held a silver goblet up in one hand while her other hand massaged the pommel of a dagger sheathed at her hip.


    cknail hesitated to walk into the room when she was so angry. However, Herad quickly noticed him standing in the doorway and red at him, so the hobgoblin immediately straightened up and walked nonchntly in as if he hadnt just been hiding out of sight.


    There were only a few other people in the room, and all of them were members of Herads tribe. cknail headed towards where his master stood in a deserted corner of the room. Once there, he kept to his masters shadow and as out of sight as possible. He was still feeling a bit awkward about being around humans, and with Herad in such a bad mood it was best not to attract attention.


    It took a few moments for everyone invited to arrive in the sitting room, but no one said anything as they waited. Their boss dark mood hung in the air, and no one dared break the silence. There were an awful lot of anxious nces being exchanged between the bandits, though.


    When thest person arrived, Herads personal guards sealed the room. cknail jumped a little as the doors were mmed shut; not having anywhere to run made him fidgety and nervous. It was only then that Herad finally spoke up.


    I just got an interesting message from an information broker. It said they owed me a favor for services rendered by a subordinate of mine, and it was sealed with a lipstick mark, she announced coldly.


    No one said anything as Herad slowly gazed around the room and at everyone there one by one. Her eyes lingered on some people more than others, and thankfully theypletely overlooked cknail. He was still hiding behind his master.


    I dont know who exactly it was referring to, but I have my suspicions. Some peopleck discipline, and have a bad habit of sticking their nose in things that dont concern them, Herad said as she red coldly at Saeter.


    The old scout was stone faced and kept his expression carefully nk, but when Herad looked away he gave cknail a dark suspicious look out of the corner of his eye. The hobgoblin quickly turned away and tried to look innocent. He thought he managed to pull it off.


    Thats not of immediate concern, though. Whats important is that the message contains a lot of details on Zelenas movements and ns. Some of it is easily verifiable, but most of it isnt. The sender also expressed concern about Zelenas schemes to control Daggerpoint, and wished us luck in defeating her, the bandit chieftain exined.


    We get tips and word from all kinds of information dealers almost every day, so what makes this one stand out? someone brave asked.


    Herad nodded and smiled darkly at no one in particr. cknail thought she was trying not to look at Saeter, although he wasnt sure why.


    Ive heard of this broker before, and the letter also contains information on my own movements. It lists things Id thought Id kept secret. Thus, Im willing to believe most the information on Zelena is also reliable, Herad exined.


    Im guessing its not good news, an older female banditmented reluctantly.


    No, its not. As most of you know, Ive managed to cripple or thwart practically all of Zelenas schemes. She hasnt been able to turn most the other chieftains against me, or at least she hasnt been able to get their direct support for any sort of attack. Theyre too afraid of me to risk that, Herad remarked arrogantly.


    They should be afraid of you. Youre the deadliest fighter in the city, and from what Ive heard youve been dispatching Zelens pet captains left and right, another man replied proudly.


    This time Herads dark eyes were hard and cold as she responded.


    All very true, but I cant do everything myself. ording to the information Ive received, Zelena has abandoned her n to turn most the other chieftains against me, and since her assassination attempt also failed, shes now nning to simply purchase enough men tounch a frontal attack on us, she exined.


    Some of the bandits gasped in shock, others blinked in confusion, but most didnt seem too concerned by the news. cknail himself understood what Herad had said, but he didnt really know what to think about it. He had no idea how many people there were in the city, or how many warriors each tribe had. He just knew there were a lot.


    Even if she buys up all the loose scum and hired muscle in the city, and lures a fair number of hands away from other chieftains as well, shed still have a very hard time defeating us in any direct attack. She didnt bring all that many of Werricks men with her East, Saeter remarked thoughtfully.


    Without Werricks veterans to stiffen their spines anyone they hire is unlikely to be of much use anyway, another man added dismissively.


    Several of the other people in the room apparently agreed with him, because they nodded and made approving noises. Herad wasnt one of them.


    Thats true, and Zelena realizes this as well. Only an idiot wouldnt, and while Zelena is many other things, she isnt an idiot. Thats why she has purchased the services of a small group of mercenaries. ording to the letter I received theyre due to arrive sometime next week, she exined grimly.


    The reaction to this news was more dramatic. Dark muttering and swearing filled the room.


    Where in all the hells is she getting all that bloody coin? someone asked in surprise.


    Fuck, someone else cursed.


    It cant all be from Werricks spoils out west. Even he couldnt be making that much from robbing and piging. Zelenas throwing gold around like Its well water, another bandit remarked in frustration.


    Are the other chiefs going to allow that? No ones ever brought a force like that into Daggerpoint. Its going to make a lot of people nervous, especially the Governor, someone else added.


    She seems to think she can get away with it, Herad told them.


    Its not that much different from hiring the normal thugs and rift raft. Half of them are deserters anyway. There are certainly no rules against it and the rules around here are pretty fluid anyway, Saetermented.


    And if anyoneins about it then she has a nice force of mercs at hand to silence them, a scarred bandit added with dry humor.


    What are you nning to do about it? Saeter asked Herad calmly over the din.


    The old scout didnt seem too concerned, and so neither was cknail. He trusted his master to know what to do.


    There arent that many options. Ideally, Id just have Zelena assassinated, but word is the assassins have her squirreled away somewhere secret. That also means we cant attack her before the mercenaries get here, the bandit leader replied.


    And we cant exactly start a fight with every chief whose minions might join her, or all the free agents in Daggerpoint, Saeter pointed out.


    So were doomed? another bandit asked nervously.


    Herad snorted disdainfully in response, and threw the man a disapproving re. He wilted under her attention.


    Having a group of mercenaries at her side hardly makes Zelena invincible. Bringing them into town will make her enemies, and we can use that, she told all her minions in a voice full of steady authority.


    Instantly, the room quieted and everyone calmed down. The panic hadnt subsidedpletely though, a hint of it lingered in the room.


    How? someone asked expectantly.


    Simple, we build up alliances of our own, and then crush Zelenas coin bought soldiers. Theyre mercs, so they wont be sticking around. That means Zelena has to attack us, and that gives us the advantage. Now that we know theyreing we can fortify the base, and prepare our forces. When Zelena attacks shell be walking into a trap, Herad answered.


    Sounds like it could work. This is a nice defensive location, Saeter added in support of his boss.


    What do we know about the sell swords? someone asked.


    Theyre an infantrypany called the Leather Heels. The broker didnt know much about them, except that theyre from down south and that theyve seen a few battles, Herad exined.


    Too bad Vorscha isnt around, shed know more about thispany, Saeter mused.


    It would also be nice to have her here for the fight. Theres no one I would rather have at my back, another man added.


    Shes needed where she is, and couldnt get here in time anyway. We have more than enough men for this n, though, Herad remarked confidently.


    Im guessing you want us all to keep this to ourselves? Saeter asked her.


    Obviously, a trap only works if the victims dont know its a trap. None of you are to share this information with anyone, including your subordinates. I wouldnt even be telling all of you this if it wasnt necessary. Just remember, if you open your mouth Ill find out about it, and then Ill seal your lips permanently. No second chances; I dont care if youre drunk or even being tortured, Herad told them threateningly, as she gazed around the room.


    There were grim nods of acknowledgement from most the bandits present. No one seemed to think she was exaggerating. cknail made a mental note to remember to forget that this entire conversation had ever happened. He was taking no chances.


    A few minutester after Herad started exining the details of her n, cknail began to grow bored of all the talking. He sighed quietly to himself and stifled a yawn. That was when Herad spoke up in an excited tone that immediately caught the hobgoblins attention.


    Some of you might be questioning me, and thinking that I''m a poor bet, but that couldnt be further from the truth. Its Zelena thats desperate here, not me. Ive knocked that bitch on her ass every time she has tried something, and thistest stupid ploy of hers will be no different. When herst desperate gamble falls apart, and we flood the streets with the blood of every petty thug stupid enough to ept her coin, then there will be no one left to challenge me. I will be the undisputed ruler of my territory, and the top dog in Daggerpoint and beyond. Then, a new age will dawn in the North, my age, and all of you here will reap the benefits! she announced eagerly.


    Loud cheering broke out in the room, as the bandits greed and pride got the better of them. All trace of their earlier fear and uncertainty had disappeared. Herad saw their reaction and grinned hungrily. Her ambition and blood lust was in as day.


    cknail giggled and licked his lips, as he pictured all the fun things that were about to happen. It seemed like his tribe was about to go to war. It was about bloody time!

 Queen of Swords 2

    Queen of Swords 2


    Now that all of her minions were solidly behind her, Herad started organizing them. Her short ck hair fell over her forehead, as she leaned forward over the table in front of her sofa and gave out her orders.


    Corveyn, youre in charge of defenses. I want work parties organized and this ce fortified as much as possible. If you need funds then youll have them, she said.


    Not a problem. I already have a few surprises in mind for our guests when they arrive, a man who cknail assumed was Corveyn replied.


    He was one of the men who had joined the tribe after theyd arrived in Daggerpoint. All these new hires were beneath cknails notice, unless they had something he wanted, so he hadnt bothered to learn their names. He was Herads favorite after all, and they were just rookies.


    Saeter, I want you to get in touch with some of your old contacts. See if you can recruit a few more good men, or at least convince as many as possible not to join up with Zelena when she starts spreading that coin of hers around. They cant spend it if theyre dead, the chieftain told cknails master.


    Saeter nodded calmly in acknowledgment, and cknail stepped out from where hed been hiding behind him. The hobgoblin then smiled hopefully at his mistress. He wanted a job too!


    However, Herad didnt even nce his way as she issued orders to the other bandits. cknail pouted sulkily as he gazed Herads way. Why hadnt she given him a job? He was far more useful than most of thesezy humans. Surely, there was someone who needed killing, or maybe some pies that needed stealing?


    Herad happened to nce back his way, and she noticed his demeanor. The bandit chieftain rolled her eyes disdainfully, but then gave him a wicked grin. The hobgoblin returned her smile hopefully.


    Dont worry, cknail. Im sure an opportunity will present itself and Ill find someone for you to hunt. It might even be someone in this room if they disappoint me enough, she chuckled darkly and loudly enough that everyone in the room undoubtedly heard her.


    Muted muttering broke out between the bandits as several people looked cknails way, and the hobgoblin heard his master grunt in disapproval. He wasnt sure why Saeter wasnt pleased, though. cknail was d that Herad trusted him to hunt her enemies for her, and he enjoyed the fearful looks he was getting.


    The new members were barely part of the tribe anyway. None of them had been around nearly as long as him! Hed joined the tribe a whole um lots of months ago! That was practically forever.


    In a tribe it was natural for the weak to fear the strong, and for them to be kept in their ce. Everyone was certainly very afraid of Herad!


    The fact that the chieftain had mentioned cknail personally obviously meant she considered him to be only one step below herself in position and toughness. Maybe his master was jealous?


    Alright, thats enough gabbing from you lot; its time to get to work. Get on out of here, Herad announced loudly.


    Her voice cut through themotion around her, and everyone else instantly grew silent and jumped to obey her. Soon, all of the bandits were walking through the doors and exiting the room. .


    Saeter let most of the other bandits leave, and get out of the way, before heading out himself. cknail followed him closely, and as soon as they were alone in the hallway Saeter turned to him.


    Listen cknail, you shouldnt be happy about being picked out like that by Herad, the old scout told the hobgoblin seriously.


    cknail frowned at his mastersment. He didnt understand why Saeter was upset.


    It means she trusts me, and that Im dangerous! the hobgoblin bragged cheerfully.


    Maybe, but it will also make your ownrades afraid of you, the grey haired scout replied.


    They should be afraid of me; Im much faster and smarter-ss than them. None of them could challenge me, cknail pointed out arrogantly.


    Thats not the point, cknail. Herads words were meant to set you against the rest of the tribe. If theyre too afraid of you then they will see you as a threat, and then they wont have your backter, or they might even try to take you out, Saeter exined.


    The hobgoblin gave his master a confused look. Wouldnt most of them do that anyway?


    Obviously, Im stronger than them so I dont-ss need their help, and they wont dare attack if theyre afraid of me, he replied as if he was stating the obvious.


    And if they gang up against you, or simply leave you to die somewhere? Saeter asked.


    cknail squinted and scratched his long green nose, as he considered that idea. He didnt like it. Humans sure were a sneaky race. How was a poor hobgoblin supposed to keep himself safe?


    What do you think I should do? he asked his master reluctantly.


    You need to show them youre more than just a killer, and that theyre yourrades and friends, the old scout replied.


    So I need to outsmart and trick-ss them cknail mused aloud. That should be easy; Im a great actor!


    Saeter sighed in resignation, and gave the hobgoblin an annoyed look.


    Sure, whatever works, he told cknail as he shook his head.


    You sure are tricky, master! cknail replied happily.


    Go get your mask and gear, cknail. I may as well get started on recruiting for Herad right away, and that means youll being with me, Saeter told him irritably, as they moved.


    Where are we going? the hobgoblin asked curiously.


    Were going to a bar. Theres some people there I should talk to, Saeter replied.


    Why? the hobgoblin asked.


    I need a drink; talking to you has given me a headache. Also, I used to move between the smaller bands a bit before I joined up with Herad, so I know some of the people. The kind of coin Zelena has will seem awfully tempting to them, but most should listen to reason, Saeter exined.


    Bah, why is Herad worried about a few tribeless humans? She should just kill them all, if theyre going to be our enemies, cknail suggested.


    Thats a bloody stupid idea! Try to actually use that skinny green head of yours, cknail. Fighting them would just hurt us, and were trying to recruit some of them, remember? Saeter replied heatedly.


    Oh, youre right-ss, sorry master, cknail responded. So first we recruit, and then-ss we make the new members fight the others for-ss us. If they die we dont even have to give them shinnies!


    Saeter turned around and swatted the hobgoblin atop his head. cknail hadnt been expecting it, so he didnt manage to dodge the blow in time.


    Ouch, he whined, as he took a step back and rubbed his now sore ear.


    Saeter red at him furiously, and cknail wilted under his gaze. What had he said wrong? Hed thought that was a great idea


    Were trying to avoid making more enemies, cknail. Daggerpoint is a pretty immoral ce, but even here bloody killing sprees in the streets are frowned upon, Saeter exined.


    Why would anyone-ss care what we do to our enemies? the hobgoblin asked with honest curiosity.


    Saeter sighed in frustration and gave the hobgoblin a brooding look. cknail met his gaze with a confused expression. It seemed like his master was thinking deeply about something unpleasant. He hoped he wasnt about to be smacked again


    You cant just go around killing everyone, even in the North Saeter exined a few secondster. This piss poor excuse for a city is still a city, and it needs to stay at least somewhat civilized. If everyone just started killing everyone else then Daggerpoint would fall apart. No one would be able to buy food, clothes, or build shelter. Soon after that almost everyone would be dead or have left.


    But the strongest would-ss hold the territory; it would all be his, cknail countered.


    So what? Its the people that make the city valuable, Saeter replied. Its not like the wilds, were you can make most things for yourself. In a city you need lots of people to buy, sell, and make things. An empty city is worth less than a mud pit.


    The hobgoblin tried to wrap his head around that. It sort of made sense to him, maybe.


    So, if I were to kill-ss the maker of tasty pastries then he couldnt make any more-ss of them, and if I were to start killing too many people he might-ss run away, the hobgoblin muttered thoughtfully.


    Saeter rolled his eyes.


    Kind of; its a bit moreplicated than that, though. If you scare away or kill too many other people then who will buy his goods? If theres no one to sell pastries to then hell leave. The city is sort of like an animal. It can take a few cuts and scrapes, but if you wound it too deeply or hit the wrong spot then it will die, Saeter told him.


    cknail nodded at his masters words. He could picture that. All the people in a city were kind of like the different squishy bits inside a rabbit, they were even the right color.


    The hobgoblin frowned as another thought urred to him. Were there green bits inside animals? He then shook his head to clear his thoughts. He should probably concentrate on Saeters words; he could always search through the insides of a rabbitter.


    I think-ss I understand, master, but I still think there must be a less boring way-ss to do this, cknail told the old scout.


    If you cane up with one then knock yourself out, Saeter replied condescendingly.


    cknail was a smart hobgoblin, so he knew his master didnt want him to actually bash himself across the head. His words were just a weird way humans gave people permission, or so Khita had exined when cknail had woken up after the first time Saeter had used that expression.


    So, we cant do anything too scary I know! Theyre weak and alone without a tribe, so Ille back at night and kill them from the shadow where no one can see, cknail announced proudly.


    Saeter eyed him critically.


    Im not sure you understand how many of them there are. Were talking about a good part of the people in the city. Even you couldnt pull that off, and some of them are very skilled. I used to be one, remember, he told the hobgoblin.


    How about just their leaders then, so the others will flee in terror? cknail mused thoughtfully.


    Sure, that sounds fine, Saeter replied.


    Really? cknail asked hopefully.


    No, thats a bloody stupid idea! Theres still far too many of them for that to work, Saeter answered scathingly.


    Fine whatever, you said they all live in their own part of the city? cknail asked sulkily.


    There had to be some way to solve this problem that wasnt as boring as talking. It wasnt like humans were usually all that hard to murder.


    Well, they can hardly live in an area controlled by a gang leader, and the Governors territory is too expensive for them, Saeter replied.


    Ha, its simple then. Well just burn all their homes down in the middle of the night, and kill them as they flee before us, cknail suggested gleefully.


    Creepily enough, that might actually work. Were not going to do it, though. That would definitely count as too much damage to the city, and every time you kill someone you might be making someone else your enemy. Saeter told him.


    but the mes would be so pretty, cknail muttered to himself.


    This was veryplicated. He supposed his master had a point though. Killing that one woman who had been with Galive had made Luphera angry. There were just so many humans shoved into Daggerpoint that he supposed they all knew each other or something.


    So if we cant kill people then what do we do? he whined.


    I already told you. Im going to go talk to some people, and youre going to follow me, his master replied.


    That doesnt sound very fun, cknailmented darkly.


    In fact, it sounded very boring, and over thest few days the hobgoblin had slowlye to realize that talking wasnt one of his strong points.


    Not everything is supposed to be fun; think of this as a chore if you want. Personally, I think sharing a few drinks with some old acquaintances sounds bloody great right now, so get moving, and stop asking me these damned annoying questions, Saeter crankily replied.


    cknail grumbled to himself but quickly headed over to his room to get dressed. A few minutester he rejoined his master and together they left their bands base and headed out into the city.


    Saeter led cknail towards their destination. It was only just after noon, so Daggerpoint was busy and the streets were full of its myriad colorful inhabitants.


    Merchants hawked their wares from stalls or store fronts. The more sessful ones had bodyguards at their sides, to prevent theft or other problems. The others simply red suspiciously at everyone that approached, and kept one hand on a weapon.


    Small groups of thugs, and what passed for normal citizens, were also walking around. It could have been a scene from any other city, except everyones clothes were rough and practical looking, and almost everyone was visibly armed. Knives and swords appeared to be the weapons of choice, but several people had clubs, and one man was even walking around with a spiked mace in his hand.


    The hobgoblin and Saeter weaved their way through the crowds while keeping their distance from most of the other people. The only interruption was when Saeter had to stop and drag an errant cknail away from where he was attempting to purchase an unidentifiable piece of meat on a stick, using money he had somehow acquired from another mans pocket after bumping into him.


    Saeter then took them off the main roads and through the less travelled alleys and narrower residential streets. They were about to walk around a tight corner when cknail realized they were surrounded, and about to be ambushed. Theyd walked right into a trap.


    The hobgoblin''s ears went t against his head, as he hissed a loud warning to his master. Saeter flinched and dropped his hand towards his sword hilt. Before he could draw his weapon though, several figures burst out hiding and rushed towards the pair, several very small figures.


    The street children ran over and quickly surrounded the two bandits. They kept their distance though, and stayed out of attack range. Their clothes were ragged and filthy. cknail could see their ugly pink skin through the holes in it.


    Please sir, do you have any coins to spare? My sister is sick and I cant afford food for us both, a taller male begged with wide desperate eyes.


    My parents beat me unless I bring home enough coins, please help me, a smaller girl whined.


    I dont have any parents, they were killed by a gang of thieves, a third said, in a clear attempt to upstage the others.


    Saeter sighed and began to pull out his coin pouch, but he wasnt as fast as cknail. The hobgoblin had also reached into a pouch, but he pulled out a handful of small stones, and then hurled them towards several of the children.


    The youngsters saw the projectilesing and quickly scrambled out of the way. The stones bounced off their turned backs and raised arms, or flew harmlessly past. cknail then hissed and charged them. He reached for the closest annoying little things neck, but was stopped by a swift tug on the back of his cloak.


    The children took this opportunity to make a break for it. They gasped, shrieked, and fled from cknails masked form as fast as their little legs could take them.


    What in all the hells do you think youre doing? Saeter swore angrily at cknail, as he held his cloak.


    Chasing away-ss the little thieves! If you let the small ones close theyll take-ss your stuff, cknail replied wearily. His master seemed really angry.


    Theyre street children, you shouldnt attack them! They might be annoying, but if you give them a few coins theyll leave, Saeter exined scathingly, as he red furiously at cknail.


    But-ss, if I just chase them away then I dont need-ss to give them any of my shiny coins, cknail pointed out reproachfully. That was justmon sense.


    Listen carefully, cknail. I know you dont understand morality, but by the gods youre going to understand this. You dont need your coins as much as those children do. You dont even spend most of them; you just hoard them! Saeter growled angrily.


    I dont understand, a startled hobgoblin replied with wide eyed confusion.


    Its called charity, cknail. You give some coins to others who need them more than you. Those children will starve or freeze in the winter without the money they get from begging, if they arent murdered by a random thug, the old scout exined.


    They look fat-ss and healthy to me, cknail countered defensively.


    Thats because youre a stupid hobgoblin. Humans arent supposed to be dressed in rags and that thin Saeter told him.


    But, theres food everywhere-ss here. You humans pile it in the street. Look right-ss over there, theres a cat! A morsel-ss like that is a tasty feast for a little goblin or person, and theyre not that hard to catch, cknail pointed out.


    Humans dont eat that stuff, Saeter exined irritably.


    Why wouldnt they, if theyre hungry? Theyre just spoiled by human food, the hobgoblin replied dismissively, as he nced in the direction most of the children had run.


    Theyd get sick, cknail! Human children arent goblins. They cant eat garbage and hunt cats through the streets! Saeter eximed.


    They could if you gave them slings, theyre not that slow and weak, cknail replied.


    Saeter sighed in defeat, and then gave cknail a hard intense look.


    Forget it, cknail. Just dont hit any more children, ever. If you do then Ill give you the worst beating of your life, and then get Khita to nurse you back to health, Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    Fine, but Im not giving them shinnies I mean coins, cknail replied darkly, before shuddering at the thought of being stuck defenseless with Khita for days. His master was a very scary human.


    Saeter just grunted and continued walking down the now empty alley. cknail cast another suspicious nce back towards the way most of the small humans had fled, before hurrying after his master.

 Queen of Swords 3

    Queen of Swords 3


    Saeter led the hobgoblin through several more back streets, before they emerged back into a more public area. The street ahead of them was wide and mostly empty. It was bordered by worn down looking but well maintained homes. Everything had a well used feeling to it.


    There were no crowds bustling about in this part of the city. Only a few tough looking men and women could be seen walking together in small groups. The people here seemed to like to keep to themselves; there wasnt a lot of talking or noise.


    Saeter and cknail silently passed these people by, as they made their way down the street. After several minutes of walking, cknail noticed a building that was clearly not a home of any sort.


    It was muchrger than the two houses that were on either side of it, even if it had the same worn down aura. Most tellingly though, there was a sign that hung out above the door, so cknail knew that meant he was looking at a human tavern. Unsurprisingly, it also appeared that Saeter was walking right towards it.


    cknail sighed in resignation as they walked up the creaky wooden steps of the tavern. He could already smell booze and the door wasnt even open yet. When Saeter opened the door, he sneezed wetly beneath his mask as the scent of alcohol and human sweat washed over him.


    The inside of the building was ufortably warm and stuffed full of humans. Apparently, the reason the streets were so empty was because everyone was in here, and by the smell of it none of them had bothered washing.


    The floor of the tavern was rugged stone and totally uncovered. The walls were rough looking wood andpletely bare of decoration.


    There were a few tables and benches scattered about, but not enough for everyone, so a lot of people were standing around in small groups. Almost everyone inside was dressed in rough workmens clothing, including a lot of the women. Only a few women were wearing long in dresses and shirts instead.


    Saeter and the hobgoblin got more than a few nces as they moved into the room. Unlike outside, no one here was hooded. cknail hissed nervously as he realized he stood out from the crowd. He didnt like being the center of attention.


    The hobgoblin''s posture stiffened, but Saeter ignored everyone else and walked up to the bar. A secondter cknail hurried after him. He felt much safer beside his master.


    The bald barkeep was round and fat even for a human. Hezily turned to look their way as they approached, and then he scowled in irritation. cknail didnt think the man was reacting to them; it seemed more likely that he always grimaced like that at everyone. His thick face was certainly lined enough for it.


    As the barkeep glowered thoughtfully at Saeter and cknail, a sh of recognition suddenly appeared in therge mans eyes.


    Huh, I thought you were dead, he grunted at Saeter.


    Im impossible to kill, you should know that, the old scout replied gruffly.


    You havent been by in a few years. At your age that usually means a man has retired or died, and you never struck me as the retiring type, the innkeeper exined with a ponderous shrug of his shoulders.


    True enough, Saeter responded as he took up position on the other side of the long crude wooden bar from the man.


    Who is your friend? the innkeeper inquired, with a nod and a suspicious nce at cknail.


    Hes a friend of mine; you dont need to worry about him, the old scout answered.


    The innkeeper didnt seem convinced; he eyed the hobgoblin suspiciously. He also apparently wasnt the curious sort though, because a few secondster he just shrugged and changed the topic.


    Well then, what brings you back here? Dont tell me youre looking for work, the innkeeper asked.


    No, I have a permanent employer these days. Im just here to tickle some ears, Saeter replied.


    Well the bulletin board''s still over there. Feel free to post something, therge bald man remarked.


    Im looking for something a little more thorough than that. Maybe you could help me spread the word? Saeter responded.


    Depends on what you want said, the innkeeper exined.


    He then looked past the pair at another group of patrons who were across the room. Saeter ignored his rude behavior and continued talking.


    I hear Zelena is going to be looking for some muscle soon. When her mene around I want it known that its a bad deal, no matter what they pay. The kind of deal that puts a man in an early grave, he said.


    The innkeeper huffed in annoyance and turned back to scowl darkly at Saeter.


    Not likely, and not even for you. I find it healthy to stay out of local politics, and thats what this smells like to me, he replied.


    Im not lying. Zelena will use up anyone she hires and throw them away. Her n is already a failure, and its just going to get anyone she hires killed, Saeter exined irritably.


    Oh, I trust your word, Old Raven. I cant say that about many men, but Ill say it about you. That doesnt change nothing though; Im still not going to get involved. Men die every day here in Daggerpoint, and everyone here knows the risks when they take a job, the barkeep responded grimly.


    I can pay up front, Saeter offered.


    I imagine so can Zelena. Its not about the coin, the bald man replied.


    Saeter sighed and frowned. He then looked around the room, and he didnt seem to like what he saw. He grimaced as he took in all the people staring at him and cknail. The hobgoblin had started to nervously clutch the hilt of the sword at his hip.


    I dont remember this ce being so full before, and I cant say the atmosphere has improved either, Saeter remarked.


    The barkeeper turned to look at his other patrons, and then grunted in acknowledgement. It was hard to tell what he thought, as his face seemed frozen in a never ending grimace.


    People around here have be suspicious of strangerstely, especially ones that hide their face. There have been some unusual disappearances that have put people on edge, he exined darkly.


    What do you mean disappearances? Saeter asked suspiciously.


    Missing beggars, loners, and sometimes people just arent making it home at night. People think it might be ghouls, therge man answered reluctantly.


    Saeter turned to give cknail a thoughtful stare. cknail stared back nkly in return. He didnt like the look on Saeters look; it usually meant he was about to tell cknail to do something annoying.


    I might be able to help you with that. If there are ghouls around I should be able to track them down, Saeter offered.


    How are you going to do that, master? cknail asked curiously, as he leaned closer to his master.


    Saeter turned towards the hobgoblin and rolled his eyes.


    Im not; youre going to do it, he answered dryly.


    Oh, cknail replied uneasily.


    The barkeep gave the hobgoblin a dismissive nce, and then turned back to Saeter.


    Last time I checked, ghouls are hard to track down unless you have trained dogs. The Governor is the only man in town with them, and he doesnt bother himself with unconfirmed rumors. I dont think your friend there will be able to do it, he said dismissively.


    Do you doubt my tracking skills? the old scout replied coldly.


    No, but the barkeeper started to say before Saeter cut him off.


    Well this fellow here learned from me, and hes even better at tracking some things. You might even say ghouls are his specialty, Saeter exined boastfully.


    Dont expect any kind of reward for this; Im not going to change my mind about interfering in the affairs of the chiefs, the Barkeeper responded darkly.


    Bah, ghouls are everyones problem. Im not looking for a reward; I just dont want to have to worry about this crapter. Besides, Im just going to find them, not exterminate them. That will be up to the Governor, Saeter replied dismissively.


    cknail groaned; he didnt think that was very likely. Experience had taught him that if there was trouble around then Saeter would inevitably drag him into the middle of it. He would be very surprised if they didnt end up in a fight or fleeing for their lives.


    Fine, do what you want then, Old Fool, the barkeep told him.


    I always do, Saeter replied.


    The two men then began talking about the details, and other things that cknail didnt find very interesting. He scanned the inside of the tavern, but nothing interesting caught his attention. Luckily, Saeter finished up his conversation after only a few minutes.


    Come on, cknail, the old scout said, as he walked away back towards the door.


    cknail followed his master, but before he reached the door he turned back towards all the men and women who were throwing him dark looks.


    There was no way he was going to let some grubby looking tribeless humans look down on him. The hobgoblin straightened up and met their gazes.


    Several looked away, but one or two red back. The hobgoblin let his hand drop down to the hilt of his sword, and then he growled in their direction. Suddenly, no one was looking his way.


    cknail grinned wickedly from behind his mask. None of these smelly humans dared to challenge him! The hobgoblin skipped happily outside, and the door swung shut behind him. Ha, of course no one dared confront him; he was far too scary for weaklings like these!


    Stop wasting time, Saeter grunted, as he looked impatiently back at cknail.


    Im right-ss behind you, the hobgoblin replied.


    Saeter shook his head disdainfully, and then proceeded to walk down the street. cknail just smiled as he sauntered over to his master. What were they doing again? Oh right, they were tracking down ghouls


    Why are we-ss doing this? I dont want to go near-ss any foul ck bloods, cknail asked with disgust.


    Some of his memories from when hed been just a mere goblin had grown fuzzy, but he still remembered his tribes fight against the ghoul things perfectly. He was unlikely to ever forget it, so he didnt really need, or want, any new memories of ghouls. They wouldnt be good memories.


    I wasnt nning on confronting any ghouls today. I just want you to sniff around and see if there are actually any around, his master answered.


    Bah, why are we-ss even doing that? cknail asked.


    Because we can, Saeter grunted in reply.


    His reply didnt really answer cknails question.


    I dont do a lot of things I could-ss, usually because you wont let me. Dont steal that or dont stab thems-ss you tell me, and those things sound like much more fun than ghoul stalking, the hobgoblinmented.


    I meant were doing it because no one else but us can. Remember when I told you about cities and how they can fall apart? Saeter asked.


    No, cknail replied.


    Saeter sighed again.


    It was like an hour ago! Daggerpoint is like an animal, remember? Saeter rified.


    Oh right-ss, but were not killing anyone right now, so were not hurting-ss the city or stopping pastries from being made, cknail countered.


    We may not be hurting the city, but the ghouls certainly are. Theyre a sickness, and if left alone theyll kill the city, Saeter replied.


    and then-ss all the pastries and tasty treats will be gone, cknail sighed in defeat.


    Of course, they were the only ones who could do this. Everyone else in the city was apparently useless and stupid! How had all these humans survived without him around to save them constantly?


    Right. Anyway, were here now. Most the disappearances have happened on this street. Sniff around and see if you can smell any ghouls, Saeter told him, as he stopped walking and stood in the middle of the empty street.


    cknail reluctantly nodded and did as he was told. He leaned over and began to smell random cobblestones. When he didnt detect anything that way, he moved over to the edge of the street and sniffed the barrels and alley entrances there.


    I smell nothing, cknail told Saeter, after several minutes of wandering.


    Keep trying, Saeter grunted in reply.


    The hobgoblin sighed and started over again. After several boring minutes of smelling the same untainted, but still foul, scent of humans he decided to wander down into the nearby alleys. His master didnt seem like he was going to let cknail stop.


    He walked over to the nearest back street entrance. It was a fairly tight alley with two rough looking houses on either side of it. The hobgoblin walked into the shadows, and idly began sniffing random things. Then he froze, and started sniffing one spot again. Saeter noticed the hobgoblins sudden fascination with a broken piece of board.


    Did you find their trail? he asked eagerly.


    No, cknail replied, as he sniffed the piece of wood some more.


    Then, what in all the hells are you doing? Saeter shouted in frustration.


    I smell familiar people-ss, cknail responded.


    Who? Saeter asked curiously.


    Two of the men-ss who serve the mage Avorlus, cknail answered.


    They probably live around here, Saeter remarked dismissively.


    They bled-ss here, and so did someone else. If they hunt other men here it would exin why their base reeks so much of human blood-ss, cknail mused to himself.


    What! Saeter eximed in rm. You should have mentioned that before!


    All mages smell of blood, just usually only-ss their own, cknail replied with a shrug.


    Come on, were going, Saeter suddenly growled, as he spun around.


    What about-ss the ghouls? cknail asked in disbelief.


    There are no ghouls! a furious Saeter replied, as he began stomping back out into the street. This might actually be much worse.


    cknail let out a defeated grunt as he followed his master. Of course, as soon as he was resigned to having to fight a pack of ghouls, he was told the situation was actually somehow worse. Did Saeter ever deliver good news? Why did cknail follow him around, again?


    Are we going-ss towards the worse things, or away-ss from them? he asked his master with morbid curiosity.


    Ghouls were more than dangerous enough for cknail, so he really hoped they were heading away from danger. He knew his master too well to believe that, though. Saeter had some odd, and more than a little crazy, ideas about what could be considered fun.


    Away. Were headed back to see Herad, Saeter grunted in reply.


    cknail felt a wave of relief wash over him at his masters words. Somehow, against all odds, Saeter had started to actually make sense! It must be cknails lucky day.


    Good, the hobgoblin replied cheerfully.


    He then followed Saeter into a nearby alley. As the pair walked into the shadowy passage, cknail heard something from behind him.


    He spun around just in time to see two men enter the alleyway behind them and draw their des. cknail hissed loudly in rm, as he reached for his own sword.


    This better not be another group of street kids Saeter started to say.


    cknails master turned around to see what had rmed the hobgoblin, and stopped talking when he noticed the two men.


    Im thinking you two arent here to wee us to the neighborhood, Saeter remarked, as he studied the pair.


    Youve been sniffing around where you dont belong, so now youre dead meat, the leader replied.


    Thats a bad idea; were part of Herads gang, and she takes attacks against her people personally, Saeter exined threateningly.


    That never works, cknail muttered darkly.


    Well, then we just wont tell her about this, the closer assant told Saeter with cruel humor.


    See, it didnt work! It never does, cknail pointed out irritably.


    Saeter turned and gave him an annoyed look.


    What should I have said, then? Do you want to take over the negotiations? he shot back at cknail.


    Lets just kill them. They dont look so tough! The one in the front is too skinny, and the one in the back looks slow and stupid, the hobgoblin replied.


    What did you just say about me, you little bastard? the further of the thugs asked angrily.


    cknail sighed and shook his head. Human ears sure were pathetic if they couldnt even hear someone talking from that short of a distance away.


    Lets kill these assholes, quick, one of the thugs told the other.


    Hispanion nodded and both of them pulled a vial out of their coats. cknails eyes went wide as he watched them chug down the contents. Everyone kept telling him that Vessels were rare, but that didnt really seem to be the case


    See, this is why you try to talk first, Saeter told the hobgoblin irritably.


    cknail grunted vaguely in reply, as his master turned to face their attackers. Saeters face twisted into a grimace as he considered them. He looked as if hed just swallowed something unpleasant.


    So, I was right. You two work for Avorlus, hemented darkly.


    How the fuck the dark haired one started to remark.


    Before he could say more though, hispanion shut him up by punching him in the shoulder and giving him a cold re.


    It was the perfect opportunity to hit them with a surprise attack, so cknail stealthy reached into one of his pouches for ammo. His fingers frantically searched the inside of the bag, but he didnt feel any stones.


    Oh right, hed thrown them all at the pack of little thieves that had ambushed him. Hed forgotten to retrieve them because Saeter had started lecturing him.


    Dog teeth, cknail muttered to himself.


    If there had been just one Vessel cknail could probably have fought him off, and if hed been alone he could have just run for it. With Saeter here, and with two Vessels as his opponents, he didnt know what to do.

 Queen of Swords 4

    Queen of Swords 4


    Since he had no ranged weapons avable, cknail drew his sword. Meanwhile, Saeter reached into his coat and took out a pouch of his own. The old scout then threw a quick nce at the alleyway behind them. The hobgoblin saw the movement, and knew what Saeter wanted to know.


    There are only two of them. I hear no one behind us, cknail told his master.


    Saeter nodded and turned back to watch the pair of thugs who were approaching. He eyed the two men warily.


    Were running. Follow me, he whispered a secondter.


    cknails eyes widened slightly in surprise, that was not what he had expected Saeter to say.


    Theyll be fast-ss runners, he warned his master.


    cknail really hoped his master had a n. Normally he was all for running away from danger, but he wasnt sure Saeter was fast enough to escape.


    Now! his master grunted a secondter, as he started running.


    Instantly, cknail turned and sprinted away as well, and he shoved his sword back into its sheath. Within a few short seconds he pulled ahead of the old scout.


    sted cowards, dont let them escape! one of the Vessels yelled from behind them.


    The pounding of heavy footsteps then reached cknails ears as the two thugs gave chase. The hobgoblin looked over his shoulder, and winced when he saw how fast their pursuers were running down the alley towards them. The men were moving at a pace a non-boosted human would have a very hard time matching.


    At this rate they would catch up within seconds. cknail could increase his own pace, but Saeter probably couldnt. Desperately, the hobgoblin searched his pouches for something useful as he ran. If only he had been a mage, then he could have used magic or something against them!


    One of cknails hands came to rest against his coin pouch, and he let out a resigned sigh as a annoying idea urred to him. The hobgoblin quickly reached inside, scooped the coins into his hand, and the whipped them back at their pursuers.


    Eat-ss this, pinkies! cknail yelled as the swarm of glittering projectiles flew through the air.


    The two Vessels barely had time to react before the coins showered over them. They both raised their hands to protect their faces, but not in time to stop the first few projectiles.


    Fuck, one of them swore, as a coin smashed into his forehead and drew blood.


    He stumbled and slowed momentarily to wipe the blood from his face. The second pursuer winced in pain as a coin bounced off his knee cap, and he slowed as well. Behind his mask cknail smirked smugly at them.


    Idly, he wondered if this counted as charity. The two thugs had certainly needed the money, thrown at their ugly faces, more than he had. He would have to ask Saeterter, after they finished running for their lives.


    Just ahead of cknail, Saeter rounded a corner and momentarily disappeared out of sight. When the hobgoblin caught up he noticed that his master was emptying the pouch hed been holding onto the ground. It had been full of little spiky pieces of metal.


    Keep running, Saeter told him, as he finished and picked up speed again.


    I never stopped! Youre-ss the slow one, you run! cknail hissed back.


    Bah, whatever, Saeter grunted in reply, and the annoyed hobgoblin had to suppress an urge to kick his master in the ass.


    The two of them only managed to run a short distance, before their pursuers rounded the corner as well. The thugs were moving very quickly, and thus they didnt have time to notice the presents Saeter had left behind for them.


    Ugh, bloody hells! My foot, one of them screamed, as he stepped on a spike.


    The other man instantly looked down, and his eyes widened in surprise at what he saw.


    Fuck, caltrops! he eximed.


    The first man stumbled, and then quickly hopped out of the way. He was limping and his face was scrunched up in pain, so he was clearly no longer in any shape to continue the chase. However, the second man had been warned. He was managing to awkwardly hop across the caltrops without stepping on any, so cknail picked up a rock off the alley floor, andunched it at his face.


    The thug was looking down at his own feet, so he didnt see iting at all. There was a thud as the heavy stone bounced off the side of his head. He stumbled and stepped on a caltrop. As the hobgoblin watched, his leg gave out and tipped over sideways tond on his side. As he hit the ground several more spikes were driven into his body.


    Damn you to all the hells forever! the man screamed shrilly in pain.


    Ouch, cknail was fairly sure that guy was no longer a problem either. Maybe he should go back there and finish them off


    Its not worth it, keep running, Saeter suddenly remarked, between heavy breaths.


    The old scout had clearly understood the hobgoblins hesitation and bodynguage. cknail sighed in regret, and continued running. Hed been hoping to at least go back and get his coins, and he wouldnt have said no to having some fun with the two men whod attacked them.


    The pair burst out of the alley and onto one of the main streets. Without slowing Saeter led cknail right into the middle of the crowds. Men and women pressed against the hobgoblin from all sides, but he ignored them. Several minutester, after it was clear no one was still following them, Saeter slowed down to a walk, and moved off to the side of the road.


    He was huffing and breathing heavily. His face was red and looked exhausted, but the hobgoblin had barely broken a sweat. All this easy city living was clearly making him weak.


    I think we lost them, the grey haired scout told cknail. Now, we need to get back and have a talk with Herad, though.


    It didnt take them long to reach Heradspound. They passed the guards and stepped inside without a problem. cknail eyed his master warily as he walked. Saeter seemed to be growing more and more animated the closer they got to Herad, and that made the hobgoblin nervous.


    Saeter burst through the entrance to Herads room, and the door mmed into the wall behind him with a loud crash. His eyes burned with rage, as he stomped into the chamber on the other side.


    cknail stayed out in the hallway, and cowered behind the two startled looking guards that Saeter had just blown past. All three of them gave each other shocked looks, and then peered wide eyed through the doorway to see what happened next.


    Herad looked up from her desk. There was a look half way between annoyance and amusement on her face. She was also reaching under her desk for something that was probably a weapon, but she rxed and smirked when she recognized Saeter.


    Down boy, she ordered him loudly.


    Saeter stopped a few feet from her desk, and then grimaced as he realized hed unintentionally obeyed her. Herad smiled mockingly at him.


    Good boy, she remarked as her eyes glittered with amusement.


    Saeters scowl deepened and he gave her an irritated look. cknail let out a relieved breath. It didnt seem like they were going to fight, or that his master was about to be killed.


    Im not a dog, Saeter grunted.


    Then dont act like one, old man. Knock on the door before you enter, and dont m it, she told him condescendingly.


    cknail could hear Saeter grinding his teeth as he tried to hold in his anger. Luckily, this just seemed to amuse Herad.


    Im here because theres something you need to know, he said, a few secondster.


    One of Herads eyebrows rose as she gave Saeter an unsurprised look.


    Well, I didnt think you stormed in here to invite me to dinner, so please go on and tell me what bug has gotten up your butt this time, she remarked disdainfully, as she leaned back in her chair.


    Avorlus is a blood mage, Saeter announced gravely.


    The old scout met Herads eyes and stared her down. Herads mouth opened slightly and she looked momentarily lost for words. cknail had no idea what a blood mage was, but it sure sounded serious!


    Well that certainly makes sense, and is useful to know. How exactly did you figure this out? Herad calmly asked, after a moment or two of thought.


    Thats it? I just revealed theres blood mage in our midst, and thats all you have to say? Saeter growled angrily.


    What is it you expect me to say? she asked.


    I expect you to do something about it! he replied.


    Hes useful, so I dont really care all that much, Herad exined emotionlessly, as her dark eyes narrowed.


    Hes a blood mage! Saeter eximed in outraged disbelief.


    And now that I know what he is I can hold it over him to guarantee his cooperation, so thanks for telling me. Now shut your trap; youre not to discuss this with anyone, Herad ordered as she red coldly at him.


    cknail heard footsteps, so he turned to see Mahedium approaching the room. Herads guards straightened and tried to look like they hadnt just been listening in, but the hobgoblin just gave the mage a friendly wave before peering back through the doorway.


    Dont you know how dangerous it is to be around blood mages? Not to mention, they kill people and harvest their blood!  Saeter pointed out.


    Before Herad could answer, their conversation was interrupted as Mahedium walked into the room. They both scowled at him as he entered, but the mage didnt seem disturbed.


    I heard you wanted me, Saeter, the mage calmly said, as he approached Herads desk.


    Yes, I did! I wanted to discuss your friend Master Avorlus. Did you know hes a blood mage? Saeter replied angrily.


    Thats a very serious usation. I take it you have proof? Mahedium asked.


    The young mage was still calm andposed. He held his staff in one hand, and stood straight with military discipline. With his in face, hazel eyes, and short brown hair he looked as unremarkable as usual.


    I know hes been abducting people off the streets, and that his home reeks of peoples blood, Saeter replied darkly.


    Hes probably a blood mage then, Mahedium admitted with a frown.


    Did you know? Saeter asked threateningly.


    I had some suspicions, but nothing more, the mage replied without concern.


    Why didnt you say anything? the old scout eximed angrily.


    Its not something I care to use people of without proof, Mahedium answered coldly.


    More like you didnt care cknails master grumbled to himself.


    The mage met Saeters angry stare without flinching. The old scout turned away from him after a second, and looked back at Herad.


    You two arent taking this seriously enough. Blood mages pollute the very earth, and they twist beasts into monsters! he announced in frustration.


    His face was red and he was breathing heavier than normal. This was the most worked up cknail had ever seen him. However, Herad just gave Saeter a t uncaring stare.


    As far as Im concerned, blood mages arent much worse than any other type of mage. Ive never met abat mage that didnt have the blood of dozens of men on their hands. All that garbage about blood magic causing mutants to appear is just superstition, Herad told him dismissively.


    Thats different,bat mages are soldiers. Blood mages prey on people for their own ends, Saeter replied.


    I also believe theres an important distinction there, Mahedium added. Also, Saeter isntpletely wrong about the rtionship between blood magic and crystal hosts.


    A triumphant look appeared on Saeters face, and he opened his mouth to say something, but Herad cut him off.


    Exin, she ordered the mage.


    Blood magices in several forms, but its actually very simple. In fact, the first mages probably all used blood magic, before modern alchemical magic was created. The type I imagine Avorlus is doing, simply involves harvesting the blood of people who didnt survive the transformation into a Vessel, and maybe some that did. Hes probably dosing the people hes abducted, and then distilling their blood to create Elixir, the mage exined.


    Why would he do that, and what does it have to do with mutants? Herad asked.


    Its a way to create more of an Elixir, even if you dont know the form for it. With such an endless supply of samples it also bes much easier to study an Elixir and discover its recipe. Unfortunately, refining the blood also creates a lot of waste products that contain active crystals. Its unlikely, but possible, that exposure to this waste could cause a creature to be a host, Mahedium admitted.


    So, a horde of savage mutants isnt about to tear its way through the city, Herad said, as she red at Saeter.


    No, most likely exposure would just kill the creatures ites into contact with. Its very dangerous stuff to anyone not already a mage or Vessel. I wonder how Avorlus is disposing of it, Mahedium replied.


    One mutant would be too many. We need to stop him before its toote! Saeter said.


    Your paranoid fear of mutants is getting annoying; they die like everything else, Herad replied scornfully.


    Youve never seen the havoc a truly dangerous crystal host can create. No man can stand against them, the empty ruins of Coroulis should be proof enough of that, Saeter countered.


    His face was still red from being so worked up, and he waved his hands as he talked. This clearly wasnt an argument he was willing to lose. Of course, Herad wasnt usually one to care what other people thought, only that they obeyed.


    Even if I wanted to do something about him, and I dont, Im not in a position where I can throw away such a useful ally. Perhaps, over your rather long and eventful career as a thief and murderer youve noticed that people who y at being a hero, and who involve themselves in events that arent any of their damn business, end up dead or as failures. Thats not a mistake I intend to make, she replied harshly, and with obvious scorn.


    Some things are more important than petty gains, and worth sacrificing for. Maybe, bing murder queen of the cutthroats shouldnt be your first priority, Saeter told her.


    Herads chair slid back across the floor with shrill screech. A dangerous look appeared on her face as she rose to her feet. Her dark eyes narrowed as she regarded Saeter with hostility. Both Saeter and Mahedium took a step back away from her, as she walked towards them.


    You overstep yourself, Saeter! Remember that Im the chief here, and that you work for me. You will do as I say, and nothing more, or Ill dispose of you like so much trash, she snarled, as she stood in front of him.


    The old scout stiffened and his face went slightly pale, but he held her gaze, and his eyes were full of defiance. cknail hissed quietly in rm. Why wasnt his master backing down? He was going to get himself killed after all!


    The hobgoblin held his breath as Saeter and Herad red at each other. cknails master seemed unwilling to submit and look away, and Herads left hand began to creep closer towards the hilt of a dagger on her hip.


    The hobgoblin began seriously considering creating a distraction, and then dragging his master away in the chaos. Maybe he could pretend there was an attack or start a fire?


    Just as Herads fingers closed around her daggers pommel, Saeter finally spoke up.


    Its as you say; youre the boss, he answered tly.


    cknail sighed in relief. Saeter then started to turn away from Herad, and head towards the door, but the bandit chieftain stopped him.


    Where do you think youre going? I didnt give you permission to leave, she hissed.


    Saeter froze and grimaced. It looked like he wanted to say something unwise. cknail held his breath again. If his master said anything stupid, and suicidal, then cknail was going to bash him over the head and apologize to Herad for him.


    Im going to go get a drink, Saeter grunted reluctantly a secondter. The hobgoblin rxed.


    Very well; go ahead. Just remember that I meant what I said about keeping this quiet, Herad replied smugly.


    The old scout didnt respond, he just immediately walked out of the room. Mahedium threw Saeter a concerned look but he also chose to keep his mouth shut.


    Saeter walked out the door, and past the two guards and one hobgoblin who were now trying hard to look like they hadnt been listening. cknail moved to follow his master as soon Saeter stomped out into the hallway, but he hesitated when he heard Herad address him.


    cknail, make sure the old fool behaves, or youll both regret it, she told him coldly.


    Yes, mistress, cknail answered , as he turned and lowered his head submissively.


    At least one of them knows who is in charge around here, the hobgoblin heard his chieftain mutter, as he scurried quickly after Saeter.


    Why couldnt Saeter just keep his mouth shut? If he kept this up one of these days Herad was going take offense at his actions and kill him. Hede awfully close just now, and cknail would rather that didnt happen.


    Saeters feet thudded against the wooden floorboards as he stomped through the building. He was obviously still furious, so cknail hesitated to approach him. He should probably try to cheer his master up, though.


    I could just kill Avorlus for you, or we could do it together, master. Ive gotten very good at the sneaking and stabbing, cknail offered hopefully, as he walked up beside Saeter.


    Youre not helping, cknail. Ive done a lot of immoral things in my life, but Im not an assassin, the old scout replied.


    I am, so Ill do it for you! the hobgoblin cheerfully pointed out.


    No, his master sternly replied. Stay here, I need to be alone for awhile.


    As cknail looked on, his master sighed tiredly and walked out the front door of Herads base. The hobgoblin would normally have been more than happy to let him go, but Herad hadmanded him to keep an eye on Saeter. With an exasperated sigh, cknail stealthily crept after his master.


    Things would be much easier if Saeter would just not resist the chief, or if he would at leastunch a proper challenge. Of course, if he did challenge Herad he would most likely be cut to pieces, but if Herad did spare him then he would at least learn his ce.


    There wasnt much chance of Saeter winning. His master really needed to realize that Herad was a lot tougher than him, so he should just do as she said. That was simply the natural order of things after all.

 Queen of Swords 5

    Queen of Swords 5


    The air in the closet was dry and stale, and with the door closed it was almost pitch ck inside. Only the tiniest hint of light managed to slip in under the door. Deep at the back, behind a pile of crates and a heap of musty old sheets, there was a quiet muffled shuffling sound as a shadowy figure stirred.


    Two long arms that ended in long jagged nails reached out and carefully retrieved something from under one of the sheets. There was then a sinister chuckle, as cknail the hobgoblin brought the wheel of cheese up to his mouth and took a luxurious bite out of it. It was so tasty and yummy!


    Hed hidden his cheese wheel here several days ago, and now he was enjoying a quick snack. No one would ever think to look for his tasty treat here. As he happily chewed the strong tangy cheese, his revelry was suddenly broken by the sound of raised voices.


    Last night hed followed Saeter out into the city, but nothing interesting had happened. Herad had ordered cknail to look out for his master, so he had carefully shadowed Saeter through the streets. The old scout had just wandered to the nearest tavern though, and spent the afternoon drinking.


    cknail had slipped into the tavern as well, and sat down at a table. Hed chosen a spot across the floor from Saeter that was tucked away in a dark corner. When anyone had tried to approach him hed simply hissed at them until they had gone away. If they hadnt got the message then hed drawn his dagger.


    Other than the fun hed had scaring the asional drunk or waitress, it had been a very boring night. Eventually, his master had stumbled drunkenly home, and cknail had followed him back. The hobgoblin had only needed to kill one mugger to keep his master safe.


    It was now the next morning, and cknails ears perked up as he detected unusual activity. Not only were a group of people discussing something rather loudly, but the sound of hurried footsteps now filled Herads base. Something was happening


    The hobgoblin carefully ced his cheese back in its hiding spot, and then stealthily crept out of the closet. He was curious about what was going on, but also cautious. It was entirely possible Herad was just in a mood, and had decided to put everyone to work. It was also possible shed simply started to kill everyone she saw. In either of those cases, cknail wasnt nning on going anywhere near her.


    He silently made his way down the hallway and towards the speakers, until their voices got clearer. One of them was definitely Herad, but she didnt sound angry. Rather, she sounded excited and cheerful.


    cknail flinched as he was suddenly overwhelmed by an urge to run back to the closet and crawl under something. If Herad was happy then bad things were about to happen to somebody, and cknail didnt want it to be him.


    just a few hours away. They werent all that easy to count, but there are about a hundred and a dozen of them. Theyre definitely a footpany; only a few of the officers were mounted, a familiar sounding bandit was saying.


    Theyre a little early, but were ready for them, Herad replied.


    They were moving pretty quickly, and seemed organized. Whoever these guys are they know how to march, the other bandit exined.


    Did you get a good look at their equipment? Herad asked him.


    Not really; theyre transporting it in covered wagons. I dont think there was enough room in them for all too many pikes or crossbows, though. They had shields on their backs so most of them are most likely nning on fighting with sword and shield, he replied.


    I would prefer it if they didnt have shields, but crossbows would have been a bigger threat. You didnt ambush or raid them at all? the chieftain inquired.


    No, as per your orders we held back and remained out of sight. The mercenaries didnt give us an opening to go after. Their officers and supplies were always well protected, he answered quickly.


    Good, the element of surprise is worth more than the loss of a few grunts to arrows from the forest. Its important that they dont realize that were expecting them, Herad announced to everyone there. I want every single member of the band ounted for, and equipped within the hour. The men already here are to start rolling out the heavy defenses, right away. Its time to dig in.


    Right away, boss, another bandit responded, before cknail heard him run off.


    As Herad continued to talk, cknail slipped into the room. He wanted to be part of the action, as well. Hopefully, Herad would give him a real job this time.


    The chamber was packed full of people, most of whom cknail couldnt be bothered to remember by name. He did see both Saeter and Khita, though. No one looked his way as he walked over towards his master.


    Have you been able to round up a few more horses? Herad asked a tallnky woman.


    No, there have been someplications there, boss, the woman replied nervously.


    What kind ofplications? Herad asked with more than a hint of anger.


    The female bandit winced and paled slightly. cknail was d he wasnt the one whod annoyed the chieftain.


    A lot of the dealers are having problems with their stock. A lot of the animals in the city are sick. They think theres either a flu going around, or that someone has been poisoning them. I dont know why anyone would do that, though, she exined quickly.


    Herad grunted in acknowledgment and some of the anger left her face. It was quickly reced by confusion. She didnt seem to know why anyone would do that either.


    cknail went very still, and tried to look as innocent as possible by forcing himself to smile. He wasnt sure it was working very well. Luckily, Herad didnt look his way. Saeter turned and gave the hobgoblin an irritated look, though.


    They started it! cknail whispered to him.


    His master didnt seem convinced. The old scout sighed and shook his head, until he turned back towards Herad a secondter.


    Smelly stupid horses, the hobgoblin muttered to himself. How dare they get him in trouble! Next time he was going to use stronger poison.


    What about Zelena; is she moving? Herad asked.


    Well, we still dont know where she actually is, but none of her men seem to be doing anything yet, another bandit replied. He was one of the men cknail couldnt be bothered to remember.


    Good, then we probably have some time. I want you to tell the guards to lock and block every door but the main entrance, girl, Herad said as she looked at Khita.


    The young redhead pointed to herself uncertainly.


    Yes, you, Herad replied irritably as she pointed to the door.


    I have a bloody name, Khita muttered darkly to herself.


    The young woman knew better then to disobey though, and she hurriedly headed for the exit. cknail watched her go, and when Khita noticed him he stuck his tongue out at her mockingly. She scowled at the hobgoblin in return, but that only made him smile smugly.


    Herad then turned towards the bands only mage. cknail hadnt noticed him at first because hed been standing at the back of a group of people and out of sight. Also, while most humans looked the same, Mahedium was even more generic looking than most.


    Mahedium, I want you to visit your friend Avorlus and deliver a message for me, she told the mage.


    He frowned in displeasure as he considered Herads words.


    Is he going to like this message? he asked dryly.


    Probably not, Herad chuckled, as she threw Saeter a smug smirk.


    The old scouts face muscles tightened and he clenched his fists, but he didnt say anything. Mahedium sighed in resignation, and Herad handed him an envelope. The mage then nodded and left the room.


    cknail and Saeter, I have a job for you two as well. Saeter, I want you to take some of the other scouts out and stop anyone who tries to approach the base. I dont want Zelena to know what shes getting into before its toote, Herad told them.


    Youre the boss, how could I refuse? Saeter replied coldly.


    What do we do if too many enemies show up? cknail asked quickly.


    The hobgoblin didnt want to give Saeter the chance to annoy Herad. He also wanted to know exactly when it was alright to run away. That was an important thing to know if there were going to be lots and lots of angry humans around.


    Fall back to the first line of defense and help defend it. I want you to keep an eye out for assassins or scouts that try to sneak past, though. Thats your main concern, cknail. I expect Zelena to send them in when she realizes how hard a nut well be to crack, and I want you ready. Itll be your job to deal with them, the bandit chieftain exined.


    cknail scowled doubtfully. If Malthus showed up he didnt want to get in another fight with him. The annoying man was a much better sword fighter than him. Herad was giving him a very dangerous job. His expression didnt go unnoticed.


    If you manage to handle Zelenas Knifemen then Ill buy you all the food you can eat, Herad told him as she grinned sardonically.


    The hobgoblin fidgeted as he considered the offer. It sounded interesting, but cknail wasnt an idiot. The job was going to be very risky, so he wanted something more than just a lot of food. He wanted quality food.


    Youll give-ss me all the expensive blue cheese and apple pies I want-ss? the hobgoblin asked, as he licked his lips.


    Herad rolled her eyes, and several bandits chuckled.


    Anything you want, she answered dryly.


    Then Ill do-ss it! cknail replied eagerly.


    The hobgoblin grinned smugly to himself. He was obviously a master negotiator! Blue cheese was worth a little danger. It smelled so good, but was very hard to find or buy.


    The merchants wanted crazy amounts of coins for it, and never left it lying around, which was very rude of them. Even the thought of eating as much of it as he could swallow sent shivers of joy down his spine.


    Do you think you can handle it? Saeter asked him with concern.


    The hobgoblin looked down at the ground and began to think furiously. A few secondster he looked up and met his masters gaze.


    Yes, I can do it. They might be sneaky and dangerous, but theyre just humans. I also dont have to fight them fair, cknail replied with a vicious grin.


    Sounds like you have a n, Saeter remarked.


    Its the best n ever! This job will be easy, the hobgoblin bragged as he grinned smugly.


    Saeter grunted dubiously and frowned at cknail, but he didnt say anything further. The hobgoblin knew his master was skeptical, but was sure his n would work.


    The meeting continued on for almost another hour, before Herad sent everyone away. Saeter immediately went off to gather men for their mission.


    Get ready to do some running and fighting. Youll want all your gear for this, including your bow. I have to wrangle up the other members of our little party, so Ill probably be a while. Some of them just got back, so Ill meet you out front at the eleventh hour, his master told him.


    The hobgoblin nodded and then dashed over to his room to get his stuff. He would need all the time he could get if he wanted to prepare his surprise for Malthus and the other assassins.


    He quickly wound the bandages around his arms and legs, donned his cloak, and pulled on his mask. He grabbed his backpack and filled it full of some extra rope and stakes. Then, as his master had suggested, he strapped his bow to his back and pulled on his sword belt.


    When that was done, cknail quickly rummaged through one of his other bags. A secondter, he pulled out a pair of sausages and scoffed them down. He didnt want to run on an empty stomach.


    The hobgoblin dashed out of the building. When he returned around two hourster his backpack was missing, and he was out of breath from running so hard.


    Saeter was right where hed said he would be, just outside the front entrance to Herads base, and he wasnt alone. Two dozen other men were with him. cknail recognized them all as scouts that had been with the band since before hed joined.


    The rangers were dressed somewhat simrly to the rest of the band. If anything, their leathers and cloaks were more worn down looking than usual. Unlike most the men in Herads employ though, they had an aura of stillness about them. It wasnt that they didnt seem dangerous; it was just that that danger was tempered by patience, which was good because cknail waste.


    So, the hobgoblins finally here, one of themmented, as cknail arrived.


    Good, I was beginning to think old Saeter was going to make us leave without him, and hes probably worth two or three men for something like this, another replied with a smile.


    cknail gave the second man a friendly nod of acknowledgement. He had spent more time around the scouts and foresters than any of the other bandits, and was thusfortable being around them. He also respected their skill.


    More than that, at least ten, cknail bragged, which drew a round of chuckles.


    A scattering of wispy white clouds filled the sky overhead, but the noon sun was still visible most of the time. A cold heavy wind was blowing from the north though, and it was pulling the dark clouds thaty thick on the skyline ever closer. cknail thought there was a good chance the day would soon grow dimmer.


    Alright, were all here, so lets get moving, Saeter told everyone. Our job is to intercept anyone trying to get a good look at thepound. Gavius, I want you and seven others to watch the gap in the buildings to the West. Ill take these eleven and watch the main road.


    There were nods of agreement from everyone present. The rangers started to form their parties, but just as the groups had started to split up Saeter spoke up again.


    And remember, nobody here should try and y hero. If you see anything you cant deal with then dont try, go for reinforcements. Its not our job to stop a serious advance, he said.


    You remember it! cknail muttered, as he gave his master a dark look.


    If anyone here was going to end up putting themselves in danger it was almost certainly going to be Saeter, and that meant cknail would have to put himself in danger to help him. This time, if the old scout tried anything stupid cknail was going drag him away, even if he had to knock him unconscious first.


    Saeter led the hobgoblin and the other rangers over to the main road, and they started walking to their destination. As they moved cknail observed their surroundings carefully for any signs of danger.


    This part of the city was mostly deserted. The fact that it had been imed by Herad wasmon knowledge, and so was her violent nature. Not that a lot of people had lived here even before the bandit chieftain had moved in.


    Most buildings here were old warehouses, and tworge ones rose up on either side of this part of the road. Their foundations were rough stone and mortar, but the rest of them were made of thick wooden nks. Saeter stopped and pointed to a window high up on the second floor of the building to the right.


    That spot has a good overview of the entire area. I want someone with a bow up there. If you see anyone that doesnt belong then use standard birdcalls to tell everyone else which side of the street theyre on, Saeter said.


    Ill do that, one of the scouts replied.


    The man exchanged a nod with Saeter, and then headed for the entrance to the warehouse.


    Alright, you two are with me and cknail. The five of us will take the west side of the road. The rest of you will take the eastern side. Carvus, youre in charge, Saeter then exined.


    There were nods of agreement all around, and then the group split into two. Scouts werent the most talkative of people.


    Keep those big green ears of yours open, cknail, Saeter told the hobgoblin, as they walked off the street and into an alley.


    I will-ss, no one will get past me! cknail replied happily.


    The hobgoblin was already scanning his surroundings with all his senses. Hunting like this always made him excited, and this time was no different. The act of sneaking around while looking for prey made him feel all tingly inside. There was nothing he would rather be doing, and he couldnt wait for some unexpecting enemy to stumble onto his path. Dealing with them would be so fun!


    It had rained slightly that morning, so the loose cobblestones under cknails boots were still damp and muddy. The sun hadnt quite risen high enough in the sky to illuminate the spaces between the buildings, so the alleyway was gloomy and full of shadows.


    cknail heard a slight noise from up ahead, and he instantly whipped his head around to stare intently in that direction. Was it an enemy? No, a rat had just scuttled out of hiding. The hobgoblin sighed and continued following his master, as the vermin disappeared through a hole in a wall.


    They continued trudging through the alleys for what seemed like forever to cknail, and it was boring! Why hadnt an enemy shown up yet? The hobgoblin was beginning to think he should be going on ahead by himself. There were supposed to be lots of enemies in the city right now, so he could just go grab one of them. The sucker would never know what hit him!


    Suddenly, cknail heard a thumping sound from down a side street up ahead. There had been a few more false rms since the rat, so at first he didnt think too much of it, but then the sound repeated itself several times.


    It sounded suspiciously like footsteps; arge group of unknown people were approaching. Since the hobgoblin''s group was out here looking for enemies it seemed likely that they''d just found some. Hooray?

 Queen of Swords 6

    Queen of Swords 6


    cknail hissed softly in warning, as the sound of footsteps on wet cobblestone drew closer. Saeter quickly held up a hand and signaled everyone to stop, and then looked back at cknail to see what was the matter. The hobgoblin responded by pointing to the source of the noise, and then making the hand gesture for people approaching.


    Saeter immediately gestured for the group to split up, take cover, and ready their weapons for an ambush. cknail was more than happy to obey. Finally, some prey had shown itself! He hoped they had lots of shiny bits and tasty things on them he could take as trophies, like pie.


    The hobgoblin quickly dashed over to a rain barrel and hid behind it, before drawing his bow. It had been a while since he hadst used the weapon, but he remembered how.


    It just wasnt something he usually carried around with him in Daggerpoint, since a sling was almost as good and much less conspicuous. Experience had taught cknail that half of sessfully hitting someoney in making sure they didnt know you were about to take a shot at them, and that was hard to do with a bow unless you were very far away.


    The other members of his party also took cover behind various obstacles, and waited for the source of the noise to draw near. cknail could barely contain his excitement. He was shivering eagerly and had even started to drool in anticipation, as he listened to the footsteps approach.


    The stupid humans didnt know what was about to hit them! Unless it was Malthus of course, if it was cknail nned on running away as fast he could.


    Soon enough, a mans head poked out from around the corner. His wild looking hair was dirty blonde and he had a short beard. After a few seconds of staring down the street suspiciously, he then turned around and looked the other way for a few seconds, before stepping back around the corner and out of sight.


    It looks clear, cknail heard him tell someone.


    There was a low rumble of conversation, and then the blonde man stepped back out into the street. He was soon followed by several other men and a woman. cknail studied them as they walked closer. All of them were wearing rough mismatched leather armor, and were armed with short swords.


    They all looked like normal Daggerpoint thugs to the hobgoblin, but they clearly werent just out for a morning stroll. They were far too nervous to be anything but intruders, and that meant they were fair game.


    Saeters hiding spot was the closest to the enemy because he had been leading the group. While still concealed, cknails master shed the signal for three, and then the one for two. cknail smiled eagerly as he realized it was a countdown.


    Just as the lead thug stepped in a small puddle in the middle of the street, Saeter gave the gomand. As one, the scouts rose from their hiding spots and unleashed a barrage of shrieking arrows. Their targets barely had time to react before the arrows ripped into them.


    Howls of pain filled the air, and three of the enemy fell with feathered shafts protruding from their flesh. Their bodies hit the wet ground with a ssh and went still. Two more of the enemy had been hit, but were still standing.


    cknail hissed in annoyance. His own arrow had missed and flown harmlessly down the street. The stupid human had moved at thest second! That wasnt fair. He had wanted to show off how great an archer he was!


    Damnation, you bloody bastards! swore arge brown haired thug.


    He had a deep gash across his arm that had been caused by an arrow grazing it, but the wound didnt stop him from drawing his sword and charging the closest target he saw. The three uninjured thugs behind him also drew their own weapons, and charged as well. cknail hissed in irritation when he realized that they were headed for Saeter. Why did that always happen?


    The hobgoblin was relieved that at least thest two thugs werent joining the attack. One was too busy cradling his arm, because it had an arrow sticking out of it. The other was uninjured, but decided to make a run for it. He dashed back the way theyde, but didnt get very far. A scout to cknails left calmly put an arrow right between his shoulder des.


    Saeter saw the enemies bearing down on him and threw down his bow, so he could pull out his sword. cknail hurriedly put his own bow down on the barrel in front of him and rushed over to support his master. Two other scouts were right behind him. They all drew their swords as they moved.


    Saeter took a step back as he warded off his opponents with a wide swing of his de. This bought cknail enough time to close on the thug closest to him. The hobgoblin put on a dash of speed and ducked under the surprised mans de. He then stabbed the tip of his sword deep into the terminally surprised mans belly.


    There was a wet sucking sound as the de sunk into his flesh, quickly followed by a choking noise as the man copsed and vomited up blood. cknail hurriedly stepped out of the way of the messy red torrent, and then kicked the kneeling man hard in the ribs, so he could pry his sword out of his guts.


    That left three enemies that were still attacking Saeter. cknails master didnt seem to be having any trouble keeping out of reach of their des, though. He calmly side stepped any sh or stab that went anywhere near him, and soon the other two scouts reached his side.


    Instantly, the odds turned against the thugs; now they were the outnumbered ones. Saeter and the other bandits took full advantage of this. All together they pressed forward and attacked, as cknail leaped to the side and threatened the thugs nk. The hobgoblin didnt like attacking from the front.


    des shed through the air as Zelenas hirelings were encircled and pushed together. The ng of steel on steel filled the alley as de met de.


    As Saeter and the other scouts attacked and exchanged blows with their opponents, cknail leaped in from the side and shed down at one the thugs feet. The hobgoblins swing didnt connect, but it forced the man to lurch out of the way, and caused a gap to open in the intruders defense.


    Almost immediately, one of them stumbled and a sword cut into his neck. He copsed and the gap widened. Saeter and his men redoubled their efforts, and blood sshed against the ground as another of Zelenas thugs was cut down. cknail giggled excitedly as he circled behind the remaining enemies; he sensed victory.


    Halt, Saeter told hispanions, as he held out a hand.


    cknail and the scouts stopped their attack. The hobgoblin threw a questioning nce at Saeter. Hed been having a lot of fun, and they were just about to get to the best part, so why had Saeter made them stop?


    Throw down your weapons, and surrender. Theres no point in fighting, the old scout told thest two thugs.


    We surrender, the remaining man instantly replied, as he dropped his sword.


    The woman was quick to follow. Both of them looked relieved, but still more than a little afraid. Their fear was understandable, since they were surrounded, and at their feety the bloody corpses of their formerrades.


    The hobgoblin was still wound up from the fight and had to hold himself back from continuing to attack and torment the prey. He shivered as he fought down the urge to pounce on them. He really hoped this surrendering business was just Saeters clever way of disarming the enemy so that they were easier to finish off, but he doubted it.


    cknail distracted himself by studying the captives. The surviving male was a shorter man with a wide build. The hobgoblin thought he looked like he had quite a bit of meat on him. He had dark eyes and dirty brown hair. He also had a short scraggly beard that did little to conceal his fat cheeks and the pockmarks on them.


    The female was tall for a woman, and gaunt looking. She also had messy short brown hair and pale washed out blue eyes. cknail eyed her suspiciously. She seemed full of nervous energy and was constantly fidgeting. If one of them was going to try something it would probably be her. cknail hoped she did.


    Both the captives noticed his intense stare, masked face, and agitated demeanor. The man nched and took a step away from him, while the woman paled and froze. Their reactions simply excited cknail further.


    See, I told you the hobgoblin woulde in handy. He led us right to them and we caught them like fish in barrel, the ranger from earlier remarked.


    That wasnt actually what you said, hispanion replied dryly.


    Close enough. Thanks, cknail, the first man said.


    No problem; it was easy, the hobgoblin replied cheerfully, without taking his eyes off the prisoners.


    Saeter ignored the chattering going on behind him, and was also focused on the captives


    Surrendering was the right choice. Now, what were your orders? he asked them threateningly.


    We were just told to scout ahead and report back any activity, the male captive quickly replied.


    "Were not Zelenas minions, we''re just in this for the money. They offered us bonuses if we brought back good info. Please, dont kill me, the woman begged.


    Do you know anything about Zelenas movements? Saeter asked them harshly.


    Yes, I do, the man replied eagerly. Shes nning on attacking you today, and is massing her forces over at Second and Gilber Street.


    cknails master looked them over contemtively for a few seconds, before turning to hispanions.


    Theyre just throwaway hirelings, and probably a distraction for the real scouts, Saeter told them.


    What do you want to do with them? one of Herads rangers asked. He didnt sound like he really cared all that much.


    The old scout turned to look at the captives again and frowned. The woman gave him a hopeful smile. cknail took a step forward and eagerly voiced his opinion.


    You could let them go he suggested eagerly.


    Some of the tension disappeared from the captives posture, and they looked relieved.


    and then I could hunt them down through the streets for fun, the hobgoblin finished.


    Both the captives took a hasty step back from him, and a horrified expression appeared on the womans face.


    That would take up too much time, Saeter replied dryly.


    I could catch them very fast, cknail remarked as he eyed the woman.


    She smelled strongly of fear, and cknail detected a slight shiver to her movements. She was obviously more afraid than herpanion, and her fear was exciting the hobgoblin. He would really enjoy hunting her. cknail licked his lips greedily.


    Nope, still not going to happen, his master answered sternly, and cknail sighed deeply in regret.


    Saeter then turned towards the two captives. There was a sad look in his eyes.


    You shouldnt have taken this job. I dont have time to lock you up, and you obviously cant be trusted, he told them.


    No, wait please! the brte woman wailed, before one of the scouts silenced her with a swing of his de.


    The stocky man tried to flee but Saeter stabbed him ruthlessly in the back. The old scout then sighed unhappily at the corpses at his feet.


    I wanted to do that! cknail whined. His master obviously hadnt enjoyed doing it, so why had he hogged all the action?


    Saeter looked up and frowned at the hobgoblin. He looked sad for a second but his face quickly hardened.


    I have another job for you, cknail. Im betting theres another more skilled group of scouts around, and I want you to track them down. There should only be one or two of them, he told him.


    Sure thing, cknail replied happily. He would get to hunt some people down after all! That was better than just stabbing them.


    The hobgoblin immediately took off at a sprint down the dirty alleyway. He had plenty of energy to burn, and within seconds he had disappeared from Saeters sight.


    Instinct told him that anyone using the humans from earlier would have wanted to make sure their distraction did as they were told, so cknail back traced the enemies path, and soon stumbled on a scent that didnt belong to them. Someone had indeed been shadowing the first group of humans as they''d approached Herads territory.


    From there it was simple for cknail to follow the new scent trail through the winding back alleys until he closed in on his prey. The man he was following wasnt bad at moving silently and keeping out of sight, so the hobgoblin had to proceed carefully when the trail grew fresh, lest he stumble into him. He didnt want the man to know he was being stalked, that would take the fun out of it.


    cknail carefully scanned the shadows for any sign of movement, or anything that didnt belong, as he moved through the alley. His prey was close now. He saw nothing though, so he closed his eyes and concentrated on listening.


    The tter of everyday activities echoed through the narrow streets from far away, but cknail tuned it out. A slight wheeze stirred the air somewhere to his right, and the hobgoblins eyes shot open. He immediately stalked towards the source of the noise. There was someone nearby.


    It hade from the other side of a decrepit looking building, so rather than expose himself by walking down the street cknail chose a different way. Silently, the hobgoblin crept up to the wall in front of him and began to climb.


    He swiftly made his way up the rough uneven wooden exterior of the building, and pulled himself up onto the roof. Ever so carefully, he stalked across the y roof tiles until he reached the far edge, and then he looked down.


    Below him a man wearing the familiar hooded cloak of an assassin was pressed up against the building. The hobgoblin watched as the man peered nervously around a corner and down the street for signs of pursuit. He appeared nervous for some reason, and that annoyed cknail. Had he somehow detected the hobgoblins presence?


    cknail was just about to drop down on the unsuspecting assassin and assassinate him, when he heard someone else approaching. Thinking that it might be more enemies, he quickly rolled back over to the other side of the roof and out of sight.


    When the new arrival turned the corner, the hobgoblin peeked over the tip of the building to see who it was, and his eyes widened in surprise. He recognized the man; it was whats his face the bandit! He was one of the men that had joined Herad after Fang had died. Was he also looking for spies?


    Much to cknails confusion, the assassin stepped out from the shadows and greeted the neer. Whats his face returned the greeting, and the hobgoblins eyes narrowed suspiciously. The man wasnt looking for spies, he was a spy! cknail was definitely going to kill him.


    Do you have the information? the assassin asked the traitor.


    I dont know, do you have my gold? he replied.


    The assassin grunted, pulled out a small pouch, and threw it to the traitor. The bandit caught it and then opened it so he could peer inside. He seemed satisfied with the contents because he smiled and tucked it into his coat.


    Upon hearing the word gold cknail had instantly focused on the pouch, but he hadnt been able to see inside of it when it had been opened. If there was gold in there though, then he nned on taking the shiny stuff for his own. He didnt actually have any gold yet, just a bit of silver.


    Its your turn, the assassin remarked, and the traitor nodded.


    All the information you want is in there, including stuff about her defenses and the location of her camp, the man exined as he pulled out a scroll case, and handed it to the assassin.


    What about information on which merchants she deals with, the caravans shes hit in thest year, and the details of her operation down South? the assassin asked.


    Ya, thats in there too. I dont know why in all the hells you want that, though. It seems pretty bloody useless, the other man replied.


    The assassin just nodded, and then opened the case and looked the scroll over quickly. A few secondster he closed it again and tucked it away.


    Good, this will do nicely. Thank you for your efforts, the assassin replied.


    The other man snorted in response.


    I know which way the winds are blowing. Herads no match for Warrick and the people behind him. Her days are numbered, the traitor said.


    Very true, but then so are yours, the assassin remarked with deceptive calm, as he lunged forward and stabbed the traitor up under his ribs.


    The man coughed and crumpled lifelessly onto the alley floor. The assassin then quickly cleaned his knife off with a cloth and re-sheathed it. The corpses eyes were wide open in surprise, and the assassin gave it a smug smile.


    He then picked the pouch up from where it had fallen on the ground, and opened it. This time cknail clearly saw the glint of gold from within, and he purred softly to himself.


    I''ll be taking this back for myself, the manughed


    Nope, its mine, cknail giggled as he dropped down on the mans back.


    What, who? the startled man gasped.


    The impact stunned the man and he started to fall. The hobgoblin wasted no time; he started stabbing wildly at the mans exposed sides. Before the assassin even hit the ground cknail had stabbed him more than half a dozen times, and then cknail stabbed him half a dozen more.


    The grinning hobgoblin stepped off the mans squishy body and started to loot the bloody corpses. He took the scroll as a gift for Herad, but imed all the assassins knives and the pouch of gold for himself. Hed earned them after all.

 Queen of Swords 7

    Queen of Swords 7


    With his human preyying dead on the wet cobblestones at his feet, cknail hurried back towards Saeter and the other scouts. He broke out into a quick run so it only took him a few minutes to find them. Thankfully, they hadnt gone far and were just around the corner from where theyd fought Zelenas hirelings.


    When he turned thest corner and Saeters form came into view, cknail let out a deep rxing breath. He was relieved that his master hadnt managed to get himself into trouble while hed been gone. He''d sort of been expecting his master to have picked a fight with a troll or something. He had no idea how or why a troll would show up in the middle of the city, but if one did he was sure Saeter would run into it.


    Im back, cknail called out as he rejoined the rangers. He didnt want to startle them and get shot in the chest by an arrow.


    Did you find anyone? his master asked with obvious interest.


    Yep, I found-ss two stupid humans the hobgoblin started to reply.


    However, he was unexpectedly cut off by the shrill sound of a distant whistle. The first st of noise was soon followed by several more, and they formed a pattern cknail recognized. It was the signal that enemies wereing down the road. Even the humans beside him, with their tiny useless pink ears, apparently heard it, because they turned to look in that direction.


    Time to go. Quickly, get back to the road! Saetermanded everyone, as he broke out into a jog.


    Together the group of rangers dashed back towards the main street that led to Heradspound, and the lookout there that had just signaled them. As they ran cknail risked a quick look around.


    The sun had now reached the apex of the sky. It was still cloudy overhead so it wasnt all that bright out, but there was enough light to strip most the shadows from the tight corridors that Saeters group were running through. The sunlight had also finally started to dry the wet ground, and the puddles were evaporating.


    Saeters group soon arrived near the warehouse where they had stationed the sentry earlier, and they came to a cautious stop. One of the scouts peeked out at the street from around a corner, but the roadway seemed clear. Carefully, he led the others to the entrance of the building. cknail listened carefully for signs of an ambush as well.


    He didnt hear anything at first, until they got close to the doorway, and then he heard a slight shuffling noise. There was at least one person concealed on the other side of it. He was just about to hiss a warning, when he got a good whiff of their scent.


    The hobgoblin rxed when he didnt smell anyone around who wasnt a member of Herads band. Sure enough, a secondter a familiar face stepped out of the doorway and greeted them. It was one of the rangers Saeter had sent out earlier.


    Good, you''re back. We need to get out of here. Zelenas men are moving in force now. Theres easily a hundred of the scuming down the road. The misbegotten bastards will be here in just a minute or two, he told them.


    Any word from Herad about how the preparations are going? Saeter asked him gruffly.


    No, and I dont care. Were not here to buy her time, if she even needs it. We were just told to stop anyone trying to get a look at our defenses until the main attackes, and its bloody well here now, the other man replied impatiently.


    Saeter grunted in vague agreement before replying.


    Fine then, lets get going. Tell the sentry to get his ass down here so we can leave, he growled.


    The other rangers soon arrived and the entire group quickly retreated down the road towards the base. The group of about a dozen rangers and the hobgoblin dashed towards safety.


    As they ran, cknail could hear noise from behind them, and it made him more than a little anxious. It definitely sounded like people were chasing them, and he didnt like being the hunted one. He threw a nervous look over his shoulder, but the road behind them was still empty. The clutter of hoofs on stone and the thud of boots were very clear in his ears, though.


    He could also hear quite a bit of activity from up ahead, and he really hoped it was the rest of his tribe. It would be awkward if it was a trap, because then hed have to make a break for safety and leave everyone else behind. The reason for all the noise soon became obvious however, and it wasnt a trap.


    The wide cobblestone road that led to Herads base was full bandits, and a tall wooden barricade now stretched all the way from the building on one side to the building on the other. It was a little taller than a human man, and had been hastily constructed out of mismatched wooden panels.


    Herad herself was out front overseeing the work as her minions finished assembling the wall. Her idea of supervision seemed to involve an awful lot of screaming and insults.


    Move faster youzy vermin! If you dont start moving your fat asses faster then you wont have to worry about the enemy, because Ill kill you fucks myself! she yelled savagely at the workers.


    The bandit chieftain then noticed Saeters group returning and turned towards them.


    I take it that your arrival means that Zelenas finally attacking? she asked Saeter as they walked up to her.


    Arge force of what certainly looks like Zelenas men ising down the road right behind us. Theres no sign of the mercenaries yet, though. How are things going here? Saeter replied.


    Well enough, the barricade isnt pretty, but it should do the job. The demolition crews have also finished copsing buildings across the other ways in, Herad answered.


    We sure are making a mess, one of the other scouts murmured to himself.


    Before Saeter could respond to Herad, her expression hardened and her hand dropped towards her sword. Thankfully she was no longer looking at Saeter though, but gazing past him instead. Both cknail and his master hurriedly turned to see what she was gazing at. It was probably important.


    The hobgoblin growled softly as he took in the figure of a lone horseman on the empty road behind them. The rider hade to a stop well out of bowshot, and he was too far away for the hobgoblin to see details, but he seemed to be scrutinizing Herads barricade.


    The first enemy has arrived. Looks like you two got here just in time for the big fight, Herad remarked.


    Oh, joy-ss, cknail hissed sarcastically. He had seen human battles before, and being stuck in the middle of one was among thest ces he wanted to be.


    The bandit chieftain then whistled sharply to get everyones attention. cknail winced as the noise painfully pierced his skull. Ugh, he hated it when people whistled.


    Alright everyone, get to the other side of the wall. The pathetic fools were about to ughter have arrived! Herad yelled loudly enough for all her nearby minions to hear.


    There was no gate in the barricade, so Saeters group followed Herad into a nearby building. The door was shut and locked behind them, and then arge bookcase was jammed up behind it for good measure.


    With that done they stepped out of another door and into the area behind the barricade, where they would supposedly be safe. The hobgoblin was d they had a wall, but he thought it would probably be safer to be somewhere that wasnt about to be attacked.


    A slight smile appeared on Herads face as she surveyed the scene before her. Her men were rushing around to put the finishing touches on the wooden barricade that loomed before them.


    cknail thought this was a good time to give her his gift, because it looked like things were going to get very busy soon and he didnt want to forget. He found that when people tried to kill him it was usually very distracting.


    Oh great-ss mistress, I have a present for you! he announced loudly to catch her attention.


    Herad turned around and scowled at the hobgoblin. He gave her a hopeful grin in return.


    Youd better not be about toy some dead rat you caught on the way back here at my feet, she remarked coldly.


    Hes a hobgoblin not a cat, Saeter interjected dryly.


    Herad just huffed impatiently for cknail to get to it. The hobgoblin hurriedly pulled the scroll case out from where hed tucked it into his belt and held it out in front of himself where she could see it.


    I dont think youve started writing or even reading, so what in all the hells is that? she asked curiously as she reached out and took it from him.


    Maybe its hobgoblin poetry, one of the scouts whispered to the man beside him, which caused him to snicker quietly. cknail ignored them.


    The vile and smelly-ss traitor gave it to the stupid human-ss assassin I killed. So I offer-ss it to you as proof of my kills, he told Herad excitedly.


    What traitor? Herad asked with sudden anger as her eyes narrowed dangerously.


    Her expression didnt get any better when she opened the scroll case and started reading. In fact, it got much worse.


    Umm, you know the man. The um pink one with the tiny ears and nose, cknail stuttered in reply.


    Herad looked up from her reading and scowled at him again. cknail cringed under her scrutiny. Why was she angry at him? Maybe he should learn peoples names after all. Why did all humans have to look so simr?


    Hes the one who smelled kind-ss of rusty all the time-ss, the hobgoblin added hopefully.


    He was disappointed; Herads scowl grew deeper, but thankfully she turned away from him and towards his master. Surely he hadnt been the only one to notice that smell? Humans sure had bad senses of smell.


    Saeter, I dont suppose you happened to see the bastard cknail is talking about? Herad asked.


    Um no, sorry, Saeter replied carefully.


    Herad groaned in uncharacteristic frustration, and eyed cknail irritably again. The hobgoblin gave her a nervous smile back.


    Fine, whatever. Dont worry about his bloody name, then. Tell me exactly how you got this scroll! shemanded the hobgoblin.


    cknail immediatelyunched into a rambling exnation on how hed tracked the super dangerous eight foot tall assassin through the streets and then killed both him and the traitor in an extended knife fight. There may have been a vicious pack of dogs, or harpies, as well.


    He left out the little unimportant details though, like the pouch of gold.


    Well, it seems like you handled the situation right, Herad told the hobgoblin. I can figure out who in all the hells the traitor was after I deal with the small army that is about to attack us. Now get back to work. I want you both to join the defensive line, but dont forget to keep an eye out for anyone trying to sneak around it.


    Yes, oh great-ss mistress, cknail replied respectfully.


    He thought it was a good idea to make sure that he was back on her good side. Herad wasnt impressed, though.


    Shut your pping trap and move. Im busy, She growled back as she turned away dismissively.


    You heard the boss; lets get going, Saeter told the hobgoblin.


    The pair then hurried away from the irate bandit chieftain and went to find a good position. cknail started to head directly for the barricade, but Saeter stopped him and pointed out a nearby roof with easy ess by an exterior stairway.


    It was just off to one side of the barricade, was within easy bow shot of it, and had a clear view of the street. The building was also tall enough that anyone below would have trouble scaling it to get at them, so they made their way over to it.


    By the time they reached the rooftop balcony the horseman had disappeared. The road in front of Herads barricade was now empty.


    Maybe he got-ss scared and went home. Im very scary; people-ss run from me all the time, cknail remarked hopefully.


    Not likely, his master chuckled in reply.


    Saeter and the hobgoblin werent the only ones getting into position; dozens of Herads bandits were also nearby and getting ready. The barricade was too thin to at the top to stand on but tforms had been set up behind it for people to climb up.


    Most of the tforms were just stacks of crates or barrels that had been piled up behind the wooden wall. There were also one or two carts that had been dragged over. The makeshift footing looked effective though; the bandits standing on it could easily hit anyone that tried to get over the wall in front of them.


    Men armed with a variety of weapons, including spears and bows, were positioned all along the barricade to defend it. As cknail looked down thest few men got into position and the sounds of activity died down. A sudden stillness then fell over the area, as everyone waited for the enemy to show themselves. There was nothing more to do but wait.


    They didnt have to wait all that long. Within minutes there was a tter of hoofs as several new riders appeared at the end of the road.


    One of them held a long banner. There wasnt quite enough wind for it to unfurl, so cknail couldnt make out the symbol on it, but it still looked more than a little impressive.


    As all of Herads minions watched, the horsemen talked among themselves and observed the barricade that was blocking their way. They didnt seem very impressed by it.


    A deep keening noise suddenly rippled though the air as one of the riders raised a horn to his lips. The eerie wail washed over cknail and caused the hairs on his skin to rise. When the noise died down cknail didnt feel any better, because it was quickly reced by the sound of pounding footsteps, and quite a lot of them.


    As cknail watched the horsemen cantered off to the side of the road, and a rough looking mob of men came down the street past them.


    cknail gulped nervously as he gave up trying to count them. There must have been hundreds of them! Certainly, there were more of them than he had fingers and toes, anyway.


    They look like normal Daggerpoint riffraff. Zelena must be holding her real soldiers in reserve, Saeter remarked matter of factly.


    cknail eyed his master skeptically. There were even more enemies than he could see? They already outnumbered Herads band!


    They look more than scary enough to me. Lets find somewhere safer to be, like the forest! cknail whined.


    Bah, stop being a coward. Fighting isnt all about numbers, Saeter replied scornfully.


    As the wave of armed and angry looking humans descended upon the barricade cknail got a better look at them. They did seem to be nothing special. Most of them wouldnt have stood out if cknail had seen them walking down the street. Of course, this was Daggerpoint so that just meant they werent armed with anythingrger than a short sword or arge club.


    By contrast Herads men were better armed and shinier. Almost all of them had helmets, and many of them had weaponsrger than just short swords. A few of them even had chainmail shirts and shields. None of the attackers had that sort of equipment. There were still a bloody lot of them though.


    cknail was brought back to reality by the sound of Saeter pulling his bow string back. He looked over just in time to see his master release an arrow at the approaching enemies, and a loud twang sound echoed past him as the bowstring vibrated.


    The projectile sailed over the heads of the first few advancing attackers, and then mmed into the throat of an unlucky man several ranks back. Instantly, the man copsed and then disappeared as he was trampled underfoot by the rest of the mob.


    A victorious roar went up from the rest of cknails tribesmen as they celebrated the kill. It was quickly matched by a chorus of bloodthirsty cries from the wave of heavily armed thugs that were bearing down on the wall. Now that they were within bowshot the mob picked up speed as one by one they started breaking out into full out sprints.


    The attackers looked eager to strike back and spill some blood of their own. cknail was going to have to do his best to disappoint them. He clenched his fists nervously as the violent maelstrom of noise from the young battlefield below washed over him.


    The first shot had been fired. The first death had been dealt. The battle that would decide the fate of Herads Band and all of Daggerpoint had begun.


    cknails stomach grumbled; he wished hed brought more snacks. Maybe he could loot something

 Queen of Swords 8

    Queen of Swords 8


    The wave of attackers bore down on the barricade Herad had ordered built across the road. cknail and his master looked down over the battlefield from a balcony on the side of a building beside the makeshift wall. Both of them had bows and full quivers of arrows.


    Dont just stand there; help me out! Saeter growled at the hobgoblin.


    cknail smiled eagerly as he took up his bow and fitted an arrow to it. He gripped it steadily and pulled the string back all the way to his face. He carefully selected a particrly stupid looking red haired human from among the advancing crowd, aligned his sights on the mans chest, and then let the arrow loose.


    The unleashed projectile sprung forward with a deep twang, and bit deep into the knee of a man standing several feet to the left of cknails target. The idental victim screamed before copsing onto the ground.


    The hobgoblin grimaced at how far off hed been. He was a great archer; that arrow should have gone where hed aimed! The wind must have shifted or something stupid wind.


    Huh, not a terrible shot, Saeter remarked as he let loose another arrow of his own.


    Yes, now he cant run-ss away, cknail responded guardedly. Hed do better next time. Thest shot had just been a fluke after all.


    The hobgoblin then selected another arrow and target. This time he chose to aim at the chest of a tallnky man with a small steel helmet. If the man didnt want to be shot then he shouldnt wear such a shiny hat. Maybe cknail would take it as a prize after the battle.


    He let go of the string, and the arrow zoomed forward and straight toward the unsuspecting man. The hobgoblin grinned happily as he watched it fly true.


    The grin slipped from his face though, when the arrow ricocheted off the surprised mans helmet and spun into the face of the man next to him. They both went down in a confused tumble of limbs, but then a few secondster they both got back up again.


    The first man looked pale and unsteady on his feet, and there was arge ufortable looking dent in his helmet. He staggered and blinked uncertainly for a while before rejoining the charge. The second man had arge gash across his face that was bleeding heavily, but he appeared to still be able to fight as well. Both definitely seemed like they would live


    Dog breath-ss, cknail hissed angrily.


    Ha, that was an unlucky shot! Just keep on shooting, though. Theyve almost reached the wall, Saeter yelled.


    cknail grunted unhappily in reply as he squinted at the mass of moving humanity below, and as he watched the front runners reached the wall and stalled before it. The hobgoblin was more than a little curious as to how they nned on actually getting over it.


    The hurriedly put together wooden barricade was only about as tall as a human, but there were dozens of armed men behind it who were extremely motivated to stop anyone from climbing it. It was too high to jump over and to climb it someone would need both hands, which would leave them more than a little vulnerable to being stabbed or hit over the head with something heavy.


    The hobgoblins next arrow missedpletely and mmed harmlessly into the ground. He growled in frustration at histest failure. The shaft must have been bent! In fact, if cknail turned his head just so and red at the arrow a certain way then it definitely looked curved. It wasnt his fault hed been given defective weapons!


    As more and more attacker reached the wall their intentions became obvious to cknail; they were nning to simply overwhelm the defenders with the force of their numbers. As the mob rushed forward they left a trail of dozens of dead and wounded on the ground behind them. More than a few of them had already been brought down by Herads archers, but there were still plenty more.


    Groups of Zelenas soldiers began throwing themselves at the barrier. They aimed for any spot that looked undefended and easy to climb over. Some tried to go over alone while others worked together to try and distract the guards and protect the climbers.


    cknail was happy to see that it didnt work very well. Almost all the climbers got a de shoved in their face as a reward for their efforts, but some made it and the fight started in earnest. Fighting began to break out on the other side as attackers scaled the barricade and found themselves face to face with Herads men and outnumbered.


    The defenders tried to overwhelm the initial attackers before more of Zelenas hirelings could make it over, and the desperate attackers tried to survive long enough for reinforcements to scale the wall behind them.


    The hobgoblin was very d that Saeter had chosen a position that was nowhere near any ce that was under attack. The melee below him didnt look like a lot of fun. He liked it up on the balcony where he was safe and could shoot people without being distracted.


    cknail noticed one of his tribesmen along the wall cut down a climber, and get dragged from his perch by several other attackers for his trouble. Immediately, more men began to scale the barrier where it was now undefended.


    The hobgoblin quickly chose one of the men and shot an arrow at him. cknail held his breath expectantly for the short seconds it took the arrow to hit its target, and hit it did. The projectile mmed into the mans ass, and he howled as he fell from the wall.


    Aha, that one-ss hit! the hobgoblinughed triumphantly.


    cknail raised a fist into the air and gave a little jump as he celebrated his glorious kill. He really was a great archer! Hed been aiming for the mans back but that was really close.


    Get down! Saeter suddenly roared.


    The old scout hurriedly grabbed cknails sleeve and yanked the surprised hobgoblin to the ground. The surprised hobgoblins wrist jammed painfully as he tried to catch himself and stop his fall.


    Wha? he hissed in pain and confusion.


    cknails confusion was dispelled as an arrow whirred through the exact space his head had been a split second ago. The hobgoblin felt his throat tighten from the shock and he gulped nervously. That had been very close


    Pay bloody attention to whats going on around you, you damn fool, Saeter growled as he held the hobgoblin down.


    Yes master, I will. I just-ss didnt think they had-ss any archers, cknail replied submissively.


    His master had just saved his life. He was fairly sure getting an arrow in his skull would kill him.


    Well, now you know they do! Saeter answered heatedly as he let go of the hobgoblins sleeve.


    The old scout peered carefully over the edge of the balcony they were on. A few secondster he quickly rose to his feet, and then aimed and shot his bow in one smooth flowing motion. After a moment the old scout smiled.


    There, I got the bastard, he then crowed proudly.


    cknail was more than a little impressed. Since theyd left the forest his opinion of his master had started to slip. He thought Saeter was sort of useless in the city, but now he knew hed been foolish to believe that. He still had a lot to learn.


    As cknail admired his masters skill, Saeter suddenly tensed. The grey haired scout then threw himself to the ground as a flock of arrows ripped through the air and smacked into the wall behind him and cknail.


    The hobgoblin flinched at the noise, and dropped onto his stomach with his arms covering his head. Above him several still quivering and humming arrows protruded from the wooden side of the building. Apparently, Saeter had missed an archer or two


    It seems weve attracted some unwanted attention, Saeter remarked as he grinned at cknail from where hey next to him on the balcony.


    Yes, so lets leave-ss, the hobgoblin hastily replied. He didnt like being shot at nearly as much as shooting at people.


    Just a second, the old scout told him.


    Saeter crawled over to the balconys edge and peeked over it. He then scanned the battlefield below them thoughtfully.


    cknail crawled up beside him, while keeping an eye out for iing projectiles, and followed his gaze. He quickly noticed what his master was looking at. In the center of the street, among the chaotic masses, a small disciplined group had appeared. They stood out from the others, and were clearly more than just normal Daggerpoint thugs.


    Their formation included several men with shields surrounding a group of archers. As cknail eyed them nervously the bowmen resumed shooting. Arrows began to rain down on the defenders that were still struggling to hold the barricade, and the asional unlucky attacker as well. The climbers redoubled their effort to make it over the barricade, and the sounds of fighting intensified.


    So, Zelena has finally made her next move. I wonder what Herad will do. Theyre both ying their cards close to their chests, Saeter mused to himself.


    As cknail peered over the balcony railing he noticed movement at one of the windows of a building across the street. He tried to see what it was, but it was too far away and all blurry.


    Theres something there, he told his master as he pointed to it.


    Ah, here we go; theres Mahedium, Saeter replied.


    cknail had no idea how his master could tell who was at the window, the hobgoblins own eyes had trouble making out things that far away, but Saeter was soon proven right in a dramatic fashion. A heavy pulsing noise washed over the battlefield as a wave of rippling air shot forth from the window. The distortion then mmed into the center of the group of shielded enemy archers.


    The street exploded into sharp stone fragments, and cknail was practically deafened by the st.


    Mixed in among the dirt and rock of the explosion were shields and other pieces of equipment, as well as several torn limbs. Bodies were sent rolling across the ground as the impact threw them aside. Only a few of the men anywhere near the st site managed to keep on their feet, and they looked worse for wear.


    The battlefield seemed to pause as everyone took in this new development. As the roar of the st died down the sounds of steel on steel and screams of pain and rage seemed muted and less frequent. A weird veil of quiet fell across the fighting.


    Then, Mahedium unleashed another barrage upon thergest concentration of attackers near the wall. Screams filled the air as men were torn apart by the magical force, and the tide of battle shifted once again. cknail grinned savagely at the beautiful destruction that filled his eyes. It was moments like this that made him really want to be a mage.


    The rest of the thugs attacking the wall faltered and began to panic. Men trying to climb the wall froze, as thepanions beside them took a nervous step back. cknail even saw one shorter female fighter who had sessfully made it over the barricade abandon her position and leap back across. She was obviously very smart for a human.


    Herads men were quick to take advantage of this opening, and they regrouped. Her bandits surged up to the wall and began to cut down Zelenas stunned men. Soon, no attackers were left on the defenders'' side of the barricade, and Herad tookplete control of the wall back.


    That was too much for the remaining attackers at the foot of the barricade. They still outnumbered the defenders, but now they were disorganized and at a serious disadvantage. As one they seemed to waver, and then one of them screamed in surprise and pain as cknailstest arrow mmed into his left butt cheek.


    Why did that keep happening? That wasn''t where he had aimed...


    That was too much for attackers. As if the wail had been some sort of prearranged signal they broke and started to flee. Groups of them began dashing away from the wall and down the street. Within seconds, the fighting stopped and only the sound of panicked footsteps remained. Soon even that was gone and thest of Zelenas soldiers disappeared down one of the many shadowy side streets.


    Aha, we won! Run-ss stupid humans, run. Ill find you though; you cant hide-ss from me! cknail cheered triumphantly.


    The hobgoblin then quickly turned away from the battlefield and headed for the stairs that led down to safe side of the wall. He wanted to beat the rush and get the best loot for himself.


    Where do you think youre going, cknail? Saeter asked.


    Im going-ss to go find some prizes. Some of the people-ss in our band are really greedy and will take all the good stuff-ss for themselves, unless I get there-ss first! the hobgoblin responded.


    The battle is far from over! Saeter growled.


    The hobgoblin turned around and gave his master an uprehending stare. Below him on the street thest of attackers had already fled, only sted rubble and a scattering of corpses remained. It certainly looked like his tribe had won


    Really-ss? he asked his master doubtfully.


    Yes, that was just the first wave. They were disposable. Zelenasmanders just threw them at us hoping that they would weaken us. Their main force is still toe, and now theyve tested our defenses, Saeter exined.


    and thats bad? cknail asked with wide eyes.


    It might be; well have to see what they do next, Saeter replied.


    The hobgoblin sighed and walked back over to his master. He then leaned over the balcony and tried to peer down the street to see if anyone wasing. He couldnt see very far though, because another tall wooden warehouse was in the way, but after several minutes spent leaning precariously over the railing he finally heard something.


    It was quiet enough that he almost dismissed it. It wasnt the sound of arge group of people, but rather it sounded more like just a few. Was the enemy trying to be sneaky? If so they wouldnt be able to get past him. No one was as sneaky as cknail; he was the sneakiest of them all.


    As he turned to look in the direction the sound hade from, a sudden burst of movement caught his eye. A small group of men burst out of the entrance of one of the nearby side streets, and took up position outside it. There were about a dozen of them and they stuck close to the nearby building for cover.


    They didnt seem very threatening to cknail. What were they doing? Several of them had bows, but what could half a dozen archers do, especially at that range? Unless they were all very good shots they would have trouble hitting anyone from that far away.


    As he watched another man stepped around a corner and into sight, with a lit torch in his hand. cknail tilted his head to the side in confusion. That was weird. Why did they have a torch out in the middle of the day? Maybe, they were cold?


    A few secondster his question was answered, and his eyes widened in surprise. One of the men drew an arrow and held it up to the me. Instantly, the oddly thick head of the arrow caught fire. The archer then wasted no time in taking a shot at the wall with his bow.


    The fiery projectile arced through the air and mmed into a wooden panel on the barricade, before bouncing off and falling harmlessly to the ground. It was quickly followed by others though, and several of those hit the wood and stuck.


    Oh, fire! the hobgoblin remarked in fascination as he stared at the mes that writhed around the enemies'' arrowheads. He wanted some of those. Imagine being able to light fires from a distance. The possibilities were endless, and you didnt even need magic!


    Those of Herads men that had bows of their own shot back, but the new attackers were quick to scramble behind cover where they were hard to hit. A steady rain of fire arrows began to fall on the wooden barricade that protected Herads forces.


    Slowly but surely the mes began to spread and consume the wooden barricade. Cries of rm went up from the defenders as their protection burned. cknail winced has he heard Herad start yelling at the top of her lungs.


    Get those fires out now! You know what to do, shemanded her men. cknail knew things were serious because she hadnt even had time to swear.


    Saeter joined in the defense. The old scout drew an arrow from his quiver and took a shot at one of the saboteurs. This time however, he missed his mark by a few inches and his arrow bounced harmlessly off a wall behind one of the attacking archers.


    The close shave startled the man though, and he dropped the arrow hed been about to shoot. It ttered onto the ground and went out. The archer then had to go back and have it lit again.


    Damnation! Saeter swore as he reached for another arrow. Theyre too far away. I really hope the fools dont burn the entire city down. Why is that damn barricade so mmable?


    A mental picture of all of Daggerpoint burning suddenly sprung to life in cknails head. It was almost all wood so it would burn quite nicely, and it would sure make for a huge spectacle. He kind of wanted to see that, just not from the inside...


    Uh oh, cknail eximed nervously as he studied the panicked activity below him.

 Queen of Swords 9

    Queen of Swords 9


    Suddenly, a door near the barricade swung open and a squad of Herads men started pouring out. The armed bandits immediately raced towards the archers. However, the saboteurs didnt stick around to fight. They took a few seconds to fire off onest volley, and then disappeared back into the alleyways.


    Some of the lead members of the bandits tried to give chase, but they were soon called back.


    You bloody idiots, get back here! Unless you''ve got a death wish get back here, their leader yelled.


    Just as the group of Herads men started to turn around another group of archers appeared on the other side of the street and loosed another volley of fire arrows at the barricade. A few of the saboteurs shot at the bandits out on the street instead of the wall, and one of Herads men went down with an arrow in his side.


    The leader of the group froze for a second and looked around hesitantly before springing into action.


    Grab the injured and lets get back to the wall. Were not doing any good out here, he yelled as he started organizing his squads retreat.


    By this time the mes from the first enemies arrows had started to spread across the wooden barrier. There was a loud crack and a shower of sparks as a particrly dry section caught me.


    We should get down there and help, Saeter told the hobgoblin as he started down the stairs.


    cknail nodded happily in reply. He wanted to see the fire from closer up anyway. The dancing reds and oranges were always so pretty, and he liked the crackling noise the mes made.


    The hobgoblin and his master quickly rushed back down to the road behind the barrier. It was a mad bustle of activity there. Bandits were running around everywhere as they tried to fight the fire, keep a lookout for the next attack, help the wounded, and move mmable supplies out of the way.


    Herad was in the very middle of the street shoutingmands. At her direction the barrels by the wall that some of the bandits had been standing on were opened, and water was scooped out into buckets. cknail was impressed; apparently, Herad had predicted that the enemy would use fire.


    Saeter immediately headed for the chieftain to get orders, but before they got there Mahedium stepped out of a nearby crowd and drew her attention. The mage was carrying his usual staff, and cknail eyed it with new respect. Hed seen the damage it had inflicted on the enemy.


    The mage wasnt alone this time, though. A scared looking older boy was at his side. He was carrying what looked to be a spare mages staff and had short blonde hair. Herad grinned excitedly as she noticed the mage.


    Are you ready? she asked him.


    Yes, a ze this size should be no problem. Im well prepared for much worse, Mahedium replied, as the boy at his side shied away from Herad.


    Then get to it! The mes arent getting any smaller, and my barrier isnt getting any stronger, the bandit chieftain told the mage dryly.


    Just make sure there arent any snipers hidden anywhere nearby. Id hate to get an arrow in my back as Im working. That would be inconvenient for both of us, Mahedium replied coolly.


    cknail and I will take care of that, if thats what the boss wants, Saeter exined as he joined the other two bandits.


    Thats fine with me, just hurry up, Herad told them.


    Good, you two are the best, the magemented as he calmly, but vigorously, started walking towards the barricades entrance.


    All four of them hurriedly passed through building that led to the other side of the wall. The boy following Mahedium stayed as far away from cknail as possible. cknail was curious why the boy was with them, but every time he so much as nced at him the boy hid behind Mahedium. The hobgoblin made a mental note to try againter when he wasnt wearing his scary mask.


    My staff, please, Mahedium told his aide as soon as they got back outside.


    The boy immediately handed the staff he was carrying to the mage, and the mage exchanged it with his own. Mahedium then stared at the staff head for a few seconds, before making a few quick adjustments. When he appeared satisfied with the result the mage aimed the tip towards the wall.


    There were bandits atop the barricade throwing water down, but they were barely keeping the mes under control. ming arrows would asionally appear from an alleyway or rooftop down the street, and hit previously untouched spots on the wall. These new mes distracted the men trying to quench the fires, and were preventing them from getting things under control.


    As Mahedium leveled his staff at the wall cknail felt the air swirl around him, and everyones clothes began to stir as newborn air currents pulled and tugged on them. cknail had to reach up and grab his hood to keep it from slipping off.


    The hobgoblin jumped in surprise as a white icy spray burst forth from the mages weapon and mmed into the wall. Frost formed instantly wherever it hit, and within seconds every me had been extinguished.


    The wooden barricade was still charred in quite a few ces, and covered with patches of ice, but seemed mostly intact. Saeter raised a surprised eyebrow as he regarded the mages work.


    That was no measly magic trick. I dont think Ive seen that before, he remarked.


    Huh, Im not surprised. A staff like this isnt something manybat mages get their hands on, outside the navy anyway. Its delicate and requires three different stones to power it. Theres no better way to put out fires, but the guilds dont like handing out staffs with more than one stone in them tobat mages, Mahedium replied.


    Whered you get it from, then? Saeter asked curiously.


    Avorlus had it, as well as the stones to power it. I didnt ask where he got it from though, because Im not sure Id like the answer, the mage replied.


    And he just gave it to you? Sater asked in disbelief as his eyes hardened at the mention of the blood mage.


    Herad sent him an eloquently written letter asking him for his aid, and so he graciously agreed to help us in our time of need, as any gentlemen would, Mahedium exined sarcastically.


    Ah, Saeter replied as he scowled darkly. cknail didnt get it.


    He also gave me several other crystals, and the use of half a dozen of his men, the mage added.


    One of Saeters eyebrows rose and he gave the mage an incredulous look, before making an impressed whistling sound.


    Herad must really have him by the balls. That sounds like a small fortune, the old scout remarked.


    Indeed, it is. Avorlus has his own reasons for wanting Zelenas ns foiled, though Herads rather direct letter certainly motivated him further, Mahedium exined.


    This conversation was just making cknail more confused. He didnt really understand what his master and the mage were talking about.


    Ha, I imagine it did, Saeter replied. She certainly knows where to stick the knife. Although, I imagine youre right about him not liking the idea of Werrick taking over, or anyone else for that matter. Chaos suits people like him much better than order.


    I dont get it. Why is Herad grabbing Avorlus balls? cknail suddenly interjected.


    Saeter wheezed loudly and began coughing hard enough that he had to bend over. The fit only stopped after he hit himself in the chest a few times, and even then he still looked pale. The corner of his mouth was also twitching.


    Mahedium nched, grimaced, and seemed to be struggling to keep a spasm that had developed in his left eye under control. The boy at his side just looked shy and scared, so basically the same. None of those responses answered the hobgoblins question. In fact, they raised several more


    cknails master threw a quick nce over his shoulder, and when he saw no one was there he gave a quiet chuckle and smiled at the hobgoblin.


    Its just a saying, cknail. It means shes threatening him and he has to do as she says, he exined.


    Ah, alright-ss, cknail replied uncertainly.


    Any further conversation was interrupted by someone yelling down at them from the wall.


    You four may want to stop gabbing and get back on this side of the wall. Weve got iing, a bandit that was leaning over the top of the barricade told them.


    Immediately, they all looked down the street. cknails ears went back against his head as he saw what was there. It was a lot more enemies, and they looked meaner than thest ones.


    Coming down the street towards the wall, and the hobgoblin standing in front of it, were two formations of soldiers. Unlike thest attackers these men werent a mob; they were organized.


    They were also better equipped. The smaller group on the left looked a lot like Herads own men. They had rough looking armor and an assortment of wicked looking weapons.


    The group on the right was even more dangerous looking. Each man in it was equipped in exactly the same way, with a brown tabard, chainmail shirt, metal cap, short sword, and a small shield. They were also walking in step and moving all together, like some sort of gigantic bug with a hundred little legs. cknail had never seen anything like it. On one hand it seemed sort of pointless to him, but on the other it was more than a little terrifying.


    Thatll be Werricks regrs on the left, and the mercenaries to the right. Now the real fight starts, Saeter mused aloud.


    We should head back inside, Mahedium quickly replied.


    The mage then started for the door without waiting for a response. cknail eyed the iing troops anxiously. They didnt look weak, and together they outnumbered his tribe by a fair bit.


    We should-ss run away. Its stupid to try and fight-ss them like this, he told his master.


    Herad knows what shes doing, cknail; we can win this. The chief has a n, and if it doesnt work, well shes never been too proud to run before. Probably, she even has an escape n allid out just in case, Saeter replied as they both headed off the street.


    You wouldnt happen-ss to know this escape route, would-ss you? cknail asked him curiously.


    A derisive snort from Saeter was the only answer the hobgoblin got. The pair then quickly hurried after Mahedium, and back through the building to the other side of the barrier.


    Are we going back to the uh ce we were before? cknail asked his master.


    Its called a balcony, and we may as well; the other option is to take a spot on the wall, Saeter answered.


    No thanks, cknail remarked quickly. That seemed like a horrible idea; a lot of the people that had been protecting the barricade had gotten themselves killed! What kind of idiot would want to go there?


    The old scout and the hobgoblin then made their way back to the balcony were they had overlooked the first part of the battle. As cknail was climbing thest stretch of the creaky wooden stairs that led up the side of the building he caught another good look at the approaching enemy.


    The two enemy formations were still moving separately and advancing slowly. A small group of horsemen rode between them, and seemed to be the leaders.


    Its too bad none of those riders are stupid enough to get within bowshot. I wouldnt mind putting an arrow in someone more important than a grunt, Saeter remarked as he gazed towards the enemy.


    Yes, then I could-ss shoot those horses, cknail replied viciously.


    Saeter rolled his eyes and sighed in exasperation, but didnt say anything.


    What-ss? Theyre mean ugly things that trample-ss and bite people! cknail exined.


    Lets just concentrate on the battle, his master replied dismissively.


    The hobgoblin scowled in fustration. Why couldnt all these humans see that horses couldnt be trusted? One day cknail knew he would be proven right! Then everyone would know how smart he was and all the horses would be ughtered. What a glorious day that would be.


    So, we''re just going to stand here and shoot people like before? cknail asked his master.


    The hobgoblin didnt mind doing that. Except for the part at the end where the enemy had started shooting back it had been both fairly safe and rather amusing.


    Pretty much, Saeter answered as he readied his bow.


    Why doesnt Mahedium just-ss blow up all these idiots like before? Then-ss we could all go back to base and eat, the hobgoblin remarked.


    Maybe he will. Well have to wait and see, the old scout answered distractedly.


    The first rank of soldiers entered the edge of bow range, and Saeter aimed and drew his weapon back. There was a familiar twang as he released an arrow, and secondster it pierced the shoulder of one of Zelenas men.


    Stop showing off, Saeter! We get it, youre a good archer. Why dont youe down here and shoot with the rest of us? aughing man yelled up from below, which was quickly followed by amused snorts and chuckles from the rest of Herads men.


    cknail leaned over the edge of the balcony, spotted theughing man, and threw a small rock at him. How dare he make fun of cknails master! The stone bounced off the bandits steel cap with a noisy ng.


    Ow, that hurt, you sted green wretch! the man cursed in response.


    There was more mutedughter and cknail smirked smugly to himself.


    Save it for the enemy, theyre almost here, Saeter ordered the hobgoblin, but cknail noticed he was grinning slightly.


    A sharp clear trumpet st drew everyones attention towards one of the horsemen, and as cknail watched Zelenas men stopped moving. The mercenaries quickly marched ahead and all together they raised their shields. The first rank of soldiers held them in front of themselves and the ones further back lifted them above their heads. The shields were unpainted wood with thin steel bands around the edges and were shaped like rounded triangles.


    cknail eyed the moving mass of protected soldiers in annoyance. That was kind of cheating; how was he supposed to shoot them now?


    "Well, that will help protect them against archers, but how are they nning on dealing with our mage and the wall? Saeter mused aloud.


    The enemy was within easy bow shot of the balcony now, so cknail loosed an arrow their way. Unfortunately, it mmed harmlessly into one of the soldiers shields and stuck there. The hobgoblin growled in frustration.


    More of the defenders started shooting and a shower of arrows descended upon the advancing enemy. Almost all the arrows failed to find a soft target though, and only a few mercenaries fell. Meanwhile, the enemys quick march brought them ever closer toward the wall.


    Cease fire, the hobgoblin heard Herad yell.


    Immediately, her men stopped firing and the rain of arrows ceased falling. The hobgoblin saw Mehdium climb up onto the barrier and level his staff at the enemy. He watched wide-eyed as a wave of force once again appeared at the end of the mages staff, and then like a massive invisible snake it shot hungrily forth.


    Any second it would collide with the mercenary formation. cknail waited eagerly to see these new enemies get smacked violently aside like rats hit by a boot. Their fancy shields wouldnt stop them from being blown up!


    The mercenary formation finally stopped, and their shield wall suddenly parted. A tall armored man stepped out from the front rank and raised a steel amulet on a chain.


    Fuck, Saeter cursed unexpectedly from beside cknail.


    The hobgoblin was then surprised further when his master hurriedly fitted an arrow to his bow and took a shot at the tall man. Herad had told them to cease fire so why was his master ignoring that order?


    As both the magical st and the arrow raced toward him, purple light red forth from the mans raised amulet. The air began to churn and a vortex burst into being and began sucking in everything in front of the mercenaries mage. The air churned and whirled as dust and grime from the street was picked up and pulled into the amulet.


    Mahediums st and Saeters arrow were also tugged aside and sucked into the unnatural vortex. There was a sh of purple light and then the other mage dropped his amulet and the vortex disappeared. The enemy formation waspletely unscathed.


    Thats not good-ss, even if it was sort-ss of pretty, cknail remarked nervously.


    No, it seems Mahedium has somepetition, and this battle will be ufortably close, Saeter replied darkly as he scowled at the figures below.


    At least that guy isnt throwing any magic back at us, cknail remarked hopefully.


    The enemy mage gestured and one of the men behind him passed him a staff. It looked exactly like Mahediums staff. The tall man then leveled it at the barricade that blocked hispanys progress, and a familiar looking ripple shot forth.


    This new st mmed into the wooden wall and smashed through it. Splinters and bits of wood filled the air as arge section of the barricade exploded noisily. Mahedium and several other bandits were thrown off the wall and disappeared, as a loud crash roared across the street.


    A few secondster cries of rm and pain filled the air. At least a few of the hobgoblin''s tribesmen had been wounded, and a huge easily traversable hole had been punched through Herads barricade.


    The tall enemy mage stepped back into rank, and the mercenaries began to march inexorably forward again as wreckage rained down from above.


    Huh, cknail grunted as he felt a sinking feeling in his gut. This wasnt good

 Queen of Swords 10

    Queen of Swords 10


    The thud and crunch of heavy boots on cobblestones filled the air as therge wedge of shield bearing mercenaries marched. The enemy soldiers were headed right towards therge gaping hole that their mage had created in the barrier that Herad had ordered built across the road.


    What do we do? cknail asked his master frantically.


    The roar of the barricade exploding had sent the hobgoblins heart into overdrive and it was beating a hundred times per minute. He twitched nervously as his every instinct urged him to run somewhere safer or to find somewhere dark to hide.


    Any ce that hostile magic men were blowing up stuff was a bad ce to be. The only thing stopping him from fleeing was a desire not to abandon his tribe, in case he couldnt find them againter, and Saeters reassuring presence beside him.


    Keep shooting, his master barked as he let loose an arrow at the nearest enemy soldier.


    The old scout had aimed low, so his arrow hit the man below the shield and sliced through the side of his leg. The mercenary didnt look critically wounded but he stumbled and cried out as he fell.


    cknail did as he was told and sent another arrow at Saeters target. It hit the copsed man in the center of his now exposed back, and the mercenary twitched and then slumped loosely onto the ground. He looked dead.


    Unfortunately, there were plenty more mercenaries left, and they had now almost reached the shattered wall. Saeter took another shot and cknail was just about to do the same, when the sound of a horn rang out from behind the barricade. The hobgoblin froze and turned to see what was going on.


    Thats the retreat signal, Saeter eximed.


    Did we lose? cknail asked. He hoped the answer was yes so that they could all go back to the forest


    No, this fights not over; Herad isnt out of tricks yet. Its just time to withdraw and reorganize, his master answered.


    That sounded like it meant they were allowed to run away, so it was good enough for cknail.


    Time-ss to go, then, the hobgoblin replied as he hurriedly started down the stairs.


    His master followed him, and when they reached street level thest of Herads men were just jumping off the back of the barricade. The long stretch of rigged together pieces of wood stood empty as its builders hurried away and left it behind.


    The only people still near the wall were two small squads of bandits who seemed to be keeping watch over the gap in its expanse, and the mercenarypany that was quickly closing in on it.


    The rest of the bandits were running further down the street but they werent panicked or moving aimlessly. Orders were being shouted out by lieutenants and everyone was being organized into squads.


    Wheres Herad? Saeter yelled at the nearest squad leader.


    The man pointed back towards the abandoned barricade, so both the hobgoblin and his master turned to look. cknail didnt see the chieftain, but now that he was looking closer he did recognize three of therger bandits. They were part of Herads personal guard.


    Shit, what now? Saeter grumbled anxiously as he started running in that direction.


    cknail sighed in exasperation as he followed his master towards the most dangerous part of the battlefield.


    Ahead of them, there was a loud tter as the pile of rubble beside the hole in the barricade shifted and two more of Herads bodyguards straightened up and rose into sight. They were both holding up the end of arge heavy looking panel of wood that had been lying atop the rubble.


    A secondter two other figures appeared between the guards. One of them was Herad, and as they watched, she pulled Mahedium up from off the ground. Once he was standing, if unsteadily, she wrapped an arm around the limping mages shoulder and began dragging him behind her.


    Here let us take him; Im sure you have better things to do, Saeter offered as he ran over to help. cknail assumed he was also being volunteered.


    Damn right I do! Just dont fall behind, old man. I need that mage in working condition, Herad replied as she passed Mahedium off to him.


    With her hands now free the bandit chieftain raised her fingers to her lips and whistled sharply. Instantly, all her minions near the barricade began to fall back and join the others down the street. They didnt seem to want to stick around, and cknail didnt me them. Bad things wereing.


    The hobgoblin moved over to help his master by supporting Mahediums other shoulder. The faster they got Mahedium moving the more distance there would be between them and the enemy. The mage shook his head and blinked before turning towards Saeter.


    Thank you. Just give me a few moments and I think I can walk on my own. Nothing appears to be broken. I just had the wind knocked out of me, Mahedium told them.


    And half a mountain of rubble dropped on you, Saeter dryly replied.


    We should-ss probably walk faster, the hobgoblin interjected nervously as he looked back over his shoulder.


    Just as cknail finished speaking the first group of shield bearing mercenaries marched cautiously through the gap in the barricade behind them. The trio had almost reached the rest of Herads men, though. They were only a few dozen feet away from the closest thing to safety around.


    Good thing they arent in any rush to attack. Youre heavier than you look, Saeter remarked.


    Yes, but what happens if the bad-ss mage decides to throw exploding magic at us right now? cknail replied uneasily.


    This was apparently something that hadnt urred to Saeter yet, because he tensed up and gave the enemy behind them a nervous look.


    I dont suppose that if that mage there decides to st us into human paste you could stop him? Saeter remarked expectantly.


    Maybe, Mahedium coughed in reply. He didnt sound very confident.


    Bloody wonderful, Saeter sighed.


    Hopefully, they dont recognize me as the mage from before, and all they see is some walking wounded. Theres no way they would waste any mana crystals on us then, the mage exined.


    cknail eyed him thoughtfully. That meant that if the enemy did recognize Mahedium then they could be about to st all three of them into little bits at any second. He didnt want to die that way, or any other way really


    We should dump him. We can say he tripped, cknail suggested quietly to his master as he covered the still somewhat stunned mages ears with his hands.


    Herad needs him, and besides were already here, Saeter answered dryly.


    The hobgoblin stopped staring back at the enemy and looked ahead. His master was right; they had already reached the rest of Herads men. He gave his master an unabashed grin and uncovered Mahediums ears.


    The scout and the green killer then let go of Mahedium and the mage managed to stand by himself. Herad was watching from out of sight of the enemy at the back of a nearby squad and she called the mage over. He seemed unsteady at first but after a few seconds managed to start walking without their help.


    Thanks you two for your help, he told them.


    No problem-ss, you can pay me back-sster. Now, Im just going to go stand over-ss there, and um guard that very important barrel, cknail replied wryly as he took a few steps away from the mage and cast another nervous nce back at the enemy.


    Saeter smacked him across the back of the head.


    What? If we stay near him then the other mage might set us on fire or turn us into little pieces, cknail hissed quietly to his master.


    This is a battlefield; nowhere is safe, Saeter replied as he led the hobgoblin away.


    The old scout didnt lead the hobgoblin in Mahediums direction, however. Instead, they joined a small squad of men off to the side of the road.


    During this time the enemy hadnt been idle. They werent attacking, but soldiers had continued to stream in through the gap in the barricade, and now almost half the mercenaries had taken up position on the same side of it as Herads men.


    The two sides red at each other. On one side were over a dozen loose squads of bandits in mismatched gear, and on the other was a solid formation of uniformed soldiers that was slowly growing as more of them slipped through the wall. The expectant stillness was broken by Herads voice.


    Show these poor bastards what happens to my enemies, mage, she yelled.


    At hermand Mahedium stepped forward and once again leveled his staff. Instantly, a purple glow sprung into being amidst the enemys front rank. However, Mahedium didnt do as anyone expected. No shimmering air or invisible force appeared, instead a pir of roaring me burst from his staff and raced across the battlefield.


    The purple glow intensified as the enemy mage summoned another vortex into being in front of him, but once again Mahedium had done the unexpected. He hadnt aimed at the enemy but several dozen feet to their left.


    The column of raging fire mmed into wooden barricade and hungrily consumed it. Within seconds that section of the wall had been transformed into a roaring bonfire. Its mes reached as high as the nearby roofs and it was still spreading and growing. The crackle and hiss of burning wood filled the air.


    Mahedium unleashed another st of me at the barricade on the other side of the gap and the mercenaries that filled it. The enemybat mage was powerless to stop the second st as well. Apparently, his purple magic wind sucker thing only worked on attacks headed towards him.


    cknail giggled happily to himself as a soothing wave of relief washed over him. So that was what the n was! He liked it; it was a nice little trap. More traps should involve fire.


    The mercenaries position was now less than optimal. They were stuck halfway through the barricade and mes were rushing toward them from both sides. There was no way they could turn around and retreat quickly enough to avoid the mespletely.


    So the tall enemy mage did the only thing he could; he went on the offensive. He dropped his amulet, grabbed his staff, pointed it in Mahediums direction, and unleashed a st of force. Immediately, there was a chorus of angry shouts as the mercenaries around him started rushing forward at Herads men, and away from the fire. cknail was happy to see that their formation wasnt quite so neat anymore.


    As the wave of magic raced towards Mahedium he reached under his shirt and pulled out an amulet of his own. In imitation of his counterpart, he then raised it. The crystal didnt glow purple and no whirling vortex appeared. Instead, a small circr transparent shield appeared in front of him, and then quickly expanded until it covered not only him but all the men around him.


    The force st smashed into it with a loud crashing sound that cknail felt in his teeth, and a wave of dusty wind blew outwards from the impact site. In the middle of the st zone stood apletely unharmed squad of bandits with Mahedium standing tall at their center.


    Charge, and push them back into the mes! Herads voice suddenly rang out.


    At hermand every bandit squad attacked. They flowed together as they raced towards the enemy. The mercenaries forward march faltered as their moral took a serious hit. Not only were they now cut off from reinforcements, but their mage seemed to have been bested, and their backs were up against the wall. Not to mention, the wall was on fire.


    Both mobs of fighters were racing towards each other now, but they hadnt met yet. Both mages took advantage of this to quickly throw attack spells back and forth. The mercenary mage sent a ball of kic energy into a squad of Herads men that were too far away from Mahedium for him to protect. It smashed into them and scattered them like leaves in the wind. In a split second a dozen men had been blown off of their feet and several didnt get back up.


    Mahedium took advantage of his opponents distraction and sted the edge of the mercenaries formation with a wave of curling me. Screams filled the air as men discarded burning shields or fell smoking to the ground.


    The enemy mage cursed loudly and raised his staff to counterattack, only to take an arrow in the neck and keel over before he could do anything. It was only one of many arrows that began to rain down on Zelenas hired soldiers as archers hidden on rooftops on both sides of the street opened fire.


    Now the mercenaries really started to falter. The death of their mage clearly demoralized them, and their advance ground to a halt. Herads men didnt stop their charge though, and battle was joined as the leadbatants from both sides crashed together.


    The still somewhat disciplined enemy shield wall was hit by the first rank of Herads men. A wave of bandits wielding swords, clubs, and spears began battering at the mercenaries and quickly started bending around the enemy formation. Herad was now the one with the numbers advantage.


    The mercenaries were a tough nut to crack, though. They were better equipped and more disciplined than their foe, and they were too close now for archers or magic to be used. Hand to handbat would now decide who would be victorious.


    The sh of metal on metal, the thud of des biting into wooden shields, and human cries of rage and pain filled the street. Behind it all was the crackling of wild mes as the wooden barricade burned.


    cknail and Saeter kept to the back of their squad. Neither of them was too eager to enter the melee. The hobgoblin only went as close as he did so that he could keep Saeter out of trouble. He kept an eye on the old scout as he darted around the edge of the fight and halfheartedly exchanged blows with the asional opponent. It wasnt really his job to fight on the front lines, and that was what rookies were for.


    Even with so many things set against them the Leather Heels Company stood their ground. They kept their shields high and their des swinging. Bandit after bandit fell before them and it looked like they would manage to hold, but then Herad herself joined the fray.


    The bandit chieftain charged out from among her minions with her bodyguards at her side, and mmed into the center of the enemys formation. Her silver de shed through the air and cut down two mercenaries as her hulking guards mmed themselves into the soldiers. They were wearing heavier armor than most the other bandits and carrying heavy two handed swords or pikes.


    Her men rallied around her and drove into the gap she created. As she whirled into the enemy formation more and more mercenaries fell and their formation began to dissolve. The sound of Herads viciousughter rang out as she batted a de away and shed its wielder across the face. She looked like she was having fun.


    A mercenary stabbed at her chest but she sidestepped the blow and ended up with only a shallow cut across her ribs. Herad then stabbed low. Her blow cut her attackers leg just below his groin. He copsed as blood poured from the wound.


    Suddenly, there was a loud cry of despair and the enemy broke. Their formation came apart and Herads men started pushing them back, but there was nowhere for them to go. The roaring mes of the burning barricade blocked their escape.


    Step by step they were pressed backwards until one of them stumbled and fell into the ze. His screams rent the air as he caught fire, and then he lunged forwards in a futile attempt to escape the mes that now covered him. Of course, there was nowhere for him to go so all he managed to do was throw himself on top of his startledrades and spread the mes, before one of them panicked and cut him down.


    This distraction only served to weaken the mercenaries further and soon another man was pushed into the mes, and then another. The smell of roasting human flesh wafted over the battlefield. cknail really wished hed brought more to eat now; the scent was making his stomach gurgle with hunger.


    Enemy soldiers began to drop their weapons, either in hopes of surrendering and being spared, or just so they would die a clean death at the end of a de instead of burning to death.


    Herad didnt take any prisoners. She and her men cut into the mercenaries until they had all been in and the more stubborn ones pushed into the mes of the barricade. A triumphant cheer went up from her men when thest of them fell.


    As a bloodstained Herad strolled over the corpse-littered street her men started looting the bodies. They were safe from any counterattack for awhile and they were eager to get their hands on some valuables. cknail took a few minutes to try and find some boots and socks that fit him. He tended to go through them quickly because of his long sharp toenails.


    After hed found a satisfactory pair the hobgoblin nced around the battlefield. The butchered or burning remains of his tribes'' enemies were scattered everywhere and most of Herads men were still busy looting the bodies for weapons or valuables. The mes that wreathed around the barricade itself were finally starting to die down as thest of the wood it was feeding on ckened and crumbled.


    Have we won yet? cknail asked Saeter hopefully.


    He was fairly sure theyd won, but then again hed thought that after the first enemies had run away and it hadnt been true.


    No, we''re just getting to the hard part, his master grunted darkly in reply.

 Queen of Swords 11

    Queen of Swords 11


    Well, maybe the battles over but I doubt it, Saeter told cknail. Even if the rest of the mercenaries decide to call it quits well still only have taken out Zelenas gold bought thugs and soldiers. We still havent gone up against Werricks own men.


    The old scout had to speak loudly in order to be heard over all the background noise. Bandits were still stomping around and cheering their victory as the remains of the wooden barricade burned. All in all it put cknail in a festive mood. It certainly smelled like a party, the air was thick with smoke and the iron scent of blood.


    The cackling mes of the burning wall also prevented the enemy forunching another attack, for now. The fire wouldntst all that much longer though.


    Zelenas a sly one. Shell have saved her best tricks forst. Werricks regrs will be harder to deal with than the others, Saeter added.


    If theyre so tough, why did she need-ss to hire so many other fighters? cknail scoffed.


    To wear us down so that were easier to take out, Saeter replied.


    Ha, they didnt-ss do all that much, and they probably-ss cost a ton of coins, the hobgoblin countered.


    She doesnt have to pay them if they all die, his master exined darkly.


    Oh, thats tricksy. This Zelenady is smart. Who is she again-ss? cknail remarked in surprise.


    You dont know who Zelena is? his master asked in surprise.


    The enemy. I have-ss enough trouble keeping track of all you humans names without worrying-ss about the ones Im going to kill soon anyway, the hobgoblin replied with an indifferent shrug.


    Do you know who Werrick is? Saeter asked.


    The enemy, the hobgoblin replied with another indifferent shrug.


    Saeter sighed in frustration before replying. The lines on his face under his grey bangs looked deeper than usual.


    Most people consider Werrick to be the most powerful of the northern bandit chieftains because he has the most men, and Zelena is one of his lieutenants. Awhile back people started calling him the Wolf because of the ruthless way he raided caravans, he exined.


    Why are we-ss fighting him? cknail asked curiously. It didnt seem very smart to pick a fight with the strongest enemy possible, but maybe it was just a Herad thing.


    Herad and Werrick hate each other. Theyve met here in Daggerpoint a few times and Herad ended up killing one of his lieutenants in a duel. The arrogant prick thought Werricks name would allow him to do anything he wanted, but it didnt, the old scout answered.


    Ah, makes sense, the hobgoblin replied with a knowing nod.


    The same type of thing could happen if there were rival gangs of goblins in an area, just with less walking about and more poo throwing. Humans were weirdly indirect some times.


    The battle isnt going too badly, though. Herad thought Werrick would be too busy toe to Daggerpoint for the winter this year, and she was right, but he sent Zelena in his ce. Zelenas forces are smaller than Herads and even without the barricade we still have a strong defensive advantage, Saeter exined.


    The hobgoblin rubbed his chin as he thought his masters words over carefully. From what hed just heard it seemed likely that Zelena would attack soon, so he needed a n.


    Lets go join the archers on-ss the roofs. Once there we can just shoot all of Zelenas men-ss because they dont have shields, cknail suggested. That seemed like the safest n.


    Before Saeter could reply, there was a scream of pain and a hollow thud as something fell from the top of nearby building and hit the ground. cknail looked over to see a twisted corpse lying there, and it had a crossbow bolt sticking out from its chest.


    A quick sh of movement drew the hobgoblins eye upwards and he glimpsed a familiarly dressed figure dash across the roof and then disappear. It had been one of Malthus assassins


    Or maybe we should just stay here, the hobgoblin remarked warily as he scanned the nearby roof tops.


    cknail get over here, now! Herad suddenly roared from across the street.


    That doesnt seem to be an option, Saeter remarked dryly in amusement.


    The hobgoblin winced in reluctance. He had a feeling that he knew where this was going and he didnt like it one bit.


    Youd better do as she says, Saeter told him.


    cknail sighed and started dragging himself over to where his mistress was waiting. There was another scream of pain from across the street and the hobgoblin sighed as the sound of running footsteps on a nearby roof reached his ears.


    Herad was yelling at a pair of nervous looking subordinates and gesturing towards where the first archer had fallen from, but when cknail approached she looked over and the rage in her eyes died down slightly. She still looked very angry though. The hobgoblin just hoped she wouldnt direct that anger at him. He was still her favorite, right?


    There you are! Youre supposed to be taking care of those assassins, so go over there and kill them, shemanded cknail.


    The hobgoblin grunted vaguely in acknowledgement. She made it sound so simple


    What are you whining about? I thought you had a n all worked out so that mere humans wouldnt stand a chance, Herad told him impatiently.


    I do, and its a great n. Theres no way it will fail, cknail replied crossly.


    Then go do it before I lose anymore of my men, the chieftain ordered him.


    Ugh fine, but dont forget my blue cheese, the hobgoblin muttered darkly in reply.


    Herad eyes narrowed dangerously at being talked back to, but she nodded in acknowledgement.


    Dont worry about that. Do as I say and youll have all the rewards you could ever want, she answered.


    It was cknails turn to nod now. He then slipped away towards his new targets and disappeared into a nearby crowd of bandits.


    Saeter walked up to Herad. The old scout had a concerned look on his age-lined face as he confronted his boss.


    Youre depending on cknail for quite a bit. He might be in over his head, you know, Saeter told her with obvious concern on his face and in his voice.


    Herads reaction was tough in his face. Her sharp barkingughter unsettled the old scout and he shuffled nervously. He wasnt the only one either. Most of the other nearby bandits threw her surprised or anxious looks.


    You just cant see it, can you? Im not betting on your pet or your partner, old man; Im betting on the monster we created, one the likes of which has never walked the North before, she exined with vicious amusement.


    Thats a tad dramatic. Hes just a hobgoblin, and not a terribly old one at that, Saeter countered.


    There has never been a goblin like him, and you know it. He will kill those men because thats what he is, a predator. Wolves need not fear themb, Herad replied coldly.


    Those are some well armed sheep, Saeter muttered as he turned and looked in the direction cknail had gone.


    The hobgoblin himself was now walking towards the fallen archer and scanning the rooftops for any sign of enemies. He slipped between squads of Herads men as he moved in order to keep out of sight of any watchers.


    When he was sure no one hostile was looking he dashed off the main drag and into a shadowy alley that was squeezed between tworge warehouses. Once there he started creeping further in as he listened for any signs of his prey.


    He might not know where the enemy was, how many of them there were, or what they were nning but he did know where he needed to go. He had made a perfect n of his own earlier for dealing with the assassins after all.


    Now, he just had to adjust the n slightly and figure out how not to get shot by the assassins crossbows. They were an unwee addition to his scheme but one he was sure he could work around, or at least dodge at thest second.


    cknail decided to head towards the closest location Herad had ced archers. Trying to chase down assassins through these dark side streets seemed like a lot of work, but if the enemy was here to get rid of the archers then they would serve as the perfect bait. The suddenly eager hobgoblin rushed through the dirty alleyways towards his target.


    It only took him a few moments to find one of his tribes archer stations. From behind a pile of crates he observed five men who were standing on a rooftop above him. Two of them were on watch while the other three were resting.


    However, cknail immediately noticed several blind spots that he, or an assassin, could use to approach them unseen. The hobgoblin shook his head in disapproval. These members of his tribe werent very good sentries. It was a good thing cknail was here to protect them, or most of them anyway...


    The hobgoblin circled around the area until he found somewhere he could watch the two best ways to sneak up to the archers. The building was right on the edge of the battlefield, and arge section of it had been copsed to serve as part of the barrier that funneled attackers towards the main street. The northern side was still standing though, and it made a good lookout spot. cknail climbed up and perched at a window on the second floor.


    If he waited there he was sure the assassins would soon show themselves. They were after Herads isted archers and this group had made them themselves vulnerable. These enemies moved like predators, if not very good ones, so they would without a doubt be drawn to weakness, and that made them predictable.


    As cknail waited among the rubble and shadows the voices of the archers reached his long green ears.


    Are you sure we''re just supposed to be sitting around here? one of them asked.


    Do you see anymore enemiesing down the main street? No? Then thats what Herad told us to do, another bandit replied.


    On one hand cknail wanted to smack them for being so loud and drawing attention to themselves, but on the other hand that was exactly what he wanted them to do. Maybe he could smack the survivors after the battle was over.


    The hobgoblins thoughts were interrupted by a rustling noise, like heavy cloth rubbing up against something. A secondter a trio of cloaked figures pulled themselves up onto a nearby roof. They crouched there for a few seconds to make sure no one had noticed them and then started to slowly and quietly make their way across the shingled roof.


    cknail smiled wickedly as he watched them from his perch. It was time for him to get moving. He quickly turned away from the window and climbed down the pile of rubble that hed used to get to the second floor.


    The assassins were using one of the routes he had scouted out earlier to approach the archers so he knew exactly what he had to do. It was too bad that he hadnt had time to set any traps


    Silently, cknail dashed across the street and started climbing up the side of an ivy covered building. The thick vines allowed him to easily make his way up to the roof. He was then positioned perfectly to ambush the assassins.


    As Malthus men crossed thest stretch of roof cknail peeked around a brick chimney and observed them. They were focused on sneaking up on their targets. The idea that someone might be stalking them in turn didnt seem to have urred to them, and that made cknail feel all tingly inside.


    The te rooftops in this part of the city were squeezed close together. It was easy enough to jump from some of them to others. Any trace of the mornings dampness had been erased by the hot rays of the midday sun that hung overhead.


    The squad of five archers was still positioned on a rooftop that overlooked the battlefield and the now smoldering remains of Herads barricade. On the roof next to them the trio of assassins were creeping ever closer by using the nt of the roof to conceal themselves. On the next building over a hobgoblin lurked behind a chimney stack and was eagerly awaiting the fun that was about to start.


    One of the assassins had a crossbow strapped to his back. He looked up over the peak of the roof at his targets, and then pulled the weapon off his back and began loading it. His twopanions began unsheathing their des.


    The first assassin rose and sighted on the back of one of the archers lookouts. He didnt take the shot though; instead the other two men crept out of hiding and started creeping closer. In just a few moments the two swordsmen would be upon the archers. They might have been outnumbered but with the element of surprise on their side they would make quick work of Herads men.


    cknail would almost have been impressed by the maneuver if they hadnt left themselvespletely open to a counter ambush. That was undoubtedly all you could expect from a bunch of fat city humans.


    The hobgoblin quickly pulled his own bow off his back and drew an arrow. He then aimed at the crossbowman. Just as the first of the enemy swordsmen made the long step over to the other roof cknail let the string go. There was a sharp tang as the arrow zoomed through the air and mmed into the back of the crossbowman. As the man gasped and crumpled the hobgoblin yelled out a warning to his unprepared tribesman.


    Oh no-ss, the enemy is attacking. Quickly, protect-ss yourselves! he screamed shrilly at the top of lungs.


    The two swordsmen instantly froze and threw startled looks back at cknail and the corpse of theirpanion. The sentry also spun around and his eyes widened in surprise when he saw cknail. He quickly noticed the attacking assassins as well.


    Hells, an attack! he cursed loudly.


    At the sound of his voice the two swordsmen jumped back into action and charged the sentry. The bandit took a scared step backwards and tried to draw his sword. He didnt have enough time though, and he had to give up and dodge out of the way of a sh from the lead assassin.


    However, the sudden evasive movement caused the lookout to lose his bnce, and cknail winced as he toppled over the side of the roof and disappeared from sight. That was going to hurt


    The attackers didnt waste any time in racing after the other archers. They clearly wanted to reach them before they were ready.


    cknail dashed carefully across the tiled roof after them. The tiles threatened toe loose beneath his feet, but he had to keep the enemy in sight or they might get away. The sounds of fighting rose from the other rooftop as he moved.


    He jumped across the gap between the buildings and ran up the side of the roof. Below him on the opposite slope the two assassins who were left were fighting the three remaining members of Herads band. Judging by the bleeding corpse lying prone on the roof one of the archers had already fallen.


    Now though, the remaining archers had discarded their useless bows and drawn their closebat weapons. Two of them had short swords and one had a small hand axe. Unfortunately for them they didnt seem very good at using them.


    The two assassins still clearly had the upper hand in the fight. Their des shed through the air and forced the bandits back. It was all the archers could do to defend themselves as they iled about with their own weapons. The y tiles of the roof also made the footing treacherous so it was a sloppy mess of a fight.


    As hobgoblin ran towards the closest enemy, he jumped over the tip of the roof and then kicked out with both feet. His boots mmed into the shoulder of one of the assassins and the impact knocked him sideways with more than enough force to send him right over the edge.


    There was a surprised yell and a smacking noise from below as the man hit the ground. This was quickly followed by a series of crashes as a section of y tiles came loose and slid of the roof.


    cknailnded next to thest remaining attacker, but the tiles below him came loose from the impact and started to slide. The hobgoblin scrambled to find his bnce and get a solid grip on the roof.


    Oopsie, cknail hissed in annoyance as his footing shifted beneath him. This wasnt good.


    Thest enemy was startled but quick to react. He lurched around and swung down at cknails head with his sword. The hobgoblins eyes widened in rm as the silver sh descended towards his face.


    A surge of panic jolted through him and cknail instinctevely reached deep inside himself to burn a bit of residual Elixir. With lightning speed he twisted to the side, found solid footing, and drew his own de to parry the blow.


    The impact knocked the assassin off bnce for a second, and he didnt get time to recover. An axe mmed into his back and the mans eyes went wide with shock. His legs gave out a secondter and he toppled over.


    Thank you, cknail told the bandit who had finished thest assassin off.


    Ha, were the ones that should be thanking you. If you hadnt yelled out that warning they would have gone through us like Ritchet Oil through a sick sheep, the axe wielder replied.


    cknail gave him a nk stare. Like what through a what? What was this crazy human talking about?


    Er, no problem, the hobgoblin replied as he brushed himself off.


    All that fighting had gotten his clothes dirty. Stupid assassins, and their running around on unsafe rooftops! He snorted in annoyance and kicked the corpse of the assassin off the roof. It fell in a tter of shattering tiles. Why did humans put such dangerous things on their roofs?


    Anyway, the first part of cknails amazing n wasplete. The second part was for him to get the rest of the assassins attention. The third was for him to kill Malthus and all his annoying cloaked minions. He wasnt quite at the third step yet, but he was getting there, and he was really looking forward to it.


    The hobgoblin walked over to the peak of the roof and coughed to clear his throat.


    Malthus, you stupid-ss fat pink bastard! I just killed three of your little friends and Im going-ss keep killing more of them until you fight me! Soe here and face me, unless youre-ss as cowardly as you are ugly! he yelled shrilly at the top of his lungs.


    The sound of his voice echoed over the city. The remaining archers that were standing beside him gave the hobgoblin shocked looks. They seemed more than a little nervous.


    Oh right-ss, you may want to find somewhere-ss else to hang out. Things are probably going-ss to get-ss exciting here soon, cknail told them thoughtfully.

 Queen of Swords 12

    Queen of Swords 12


    The bandit archers that cknail had saved from the assassins took his advice and decided to leave. It would have been pointless for them to have stayed to help him fight, but it would have also been nice of them to offer. Humans sure were an ungrateful bunch.


    Before they left cknail borrowed some of their rope. The hobgoblin was a little concerned that Malthus would get lost and not be able to find his location, so he wandered back over to the first assassin hed killed. He then picked the corpse up and hung the cloaked body by its neck from the tallest nearby chimney. There was no way Malthus could miss that helpful sign!


    Now all he had to do was be patient


    Wait, what if Malthus didnte because he suspected an ambush or something? That would ruin cknails perfect n.


    This isnt a trap. I just want-ss to kill you, Malthus! cknail yelled out to rify things.


    The sound of his voice echoed loudly over the nearby rooftops and through the dark alleys between them. The hobgoblin was more than a little disappointed when no one yelled back to thank him for the exnation.


    Standing around on the rooftop was definitely getting boring. Why couldnt Herad fight people who were more interesting and talked more?


    cknail impatiently strolled along the rooftops as he waited for his enemies to show up. He would asionally stop to throw out a few more insults, apparently Malthus was the son of a goat, but the hobgoblin kept his head down and eyes open. The fact that the assassins were running around with crossbows hadnt slipped his mind.


    A few minutester cknail finally heard the sound of someone trying to sneak up on him. He quickly looked over his shoulder to see a flurry of movement in an alley below him as several cloaked figures dove for cover.


    I think he saw us, one of the men whispered.


    Thats impossible, another replied quietly.


    I can-ss hear you too! cknail answered back helpfully.


    He wanted them to stop sneaking around and attack him already. There really was no point in them trying to sneak up on him.


    Damnation, how in all the hells can he do that? one of the assassins cursed.


    Maybe he just guessed what we said, and he didnt actually hear us, another suggested.


    There was a moment of silence as the assassins thought this possibility over.


    Im not-ss just guessing; I can-ss really hear you, cknail yelled back.


    Rot and ruin! It must be some sort of magic, one of them cursed from where he was hiding behind a pile of trash.


    He could have just guessed that wed think he was guessing, the first assassin added thoughtfully.


    There was another second of silence. Then the hobgoblin heard a smacking sound like someone had just gotten pped or punched and Malthus spoke up.


    Just shut up, you idiot. It doesnt matter how hes doing it! Everyone just stay silent; were switching to hand signals from now on, hemanded his men.


    Just hurry up! Youre taking-ss forever, cknail impatiently shouted their way.


    Shut your vile trap you freakish bastard! Malthus yelled back angrily.


    Youre not supposed to be talking! the hobgoblin pointed out cheerfully.


    cknail may have just been imagining it, but it almost sounded like he could hear Malthus grinding his teeth all the way from the roof. Was he angry for some reason? He was just trying to be helpful so that the assassins would stop wasting so much of his time.


    The hobgoblin waited for Malthus and his men to approach him. After a few seconds they tried to slip around the other side of the building and nk him. cknail sighed in annoyance at their snail-like pace.


    Well if they wouldnte to him then he would just go to them! The hobgoblin broke out into a dash. The thump of his footsteps as he ran knocked the tiles beneath his boots loose and they started to slide and fall off of the roof and onto the ground below.


    cknail jumped the gap between ledges andnded on the next roof over. He scrambled to catch his bnce for a second and then continued running straight for Malthus and the assassins, or at least towards the roof that hung over their heads.


    After another quick leap he passed them right by and just kept on running. There was muttered swearing from the alley below as the hobgoblin zoomed by, and cknail smiled in self-satisfaction. His n was perfect. All he had to do was get Malthus to follow him, and he had a fairly good idea about how to do that.


    You idiots are too slow. Im just going-ss to lose you in the city and then go kill-ss Zelena, he yelled as he ran by.


    The muttering from below intensified, and was quickly followed a stampede of footsteps. It definitely sounded like all the assassins were chasing him.


    Quick, after him! Dont let him escape, but keep an eye out for ambushes. This is probably a trap, Malthus ordered his minions as he took off after the hobgoblin.


    The rooftops were treacherous and harder to run on than the streets below, and that slowed cknail down somewhat. They also allowed him to take more than a few shortcuts though, and more importantly he was a hobgoblin Vessel, so he was easily able to keep his lead. In fact, he had to slow down several times so that he didnt get too far ahead.


    At the brisk pace he was keeping cknail soon led his pursuers out of Herads territory in the warehouse district and out into the city proper. The roofs under his feet and the buildings that supported them grew smaller. The asional citizen of Daggerpoint also appeared below now that they were away from the battle.


    As a Vessel Malthus was by far the fastest runner in his squad, but he seemed reluctant to leave his men behind and that slowed him down. All the assassins were also on the ground below cknail, and he was above them on the rooftops, so they couldnt attack him no matter how close they got.


    Or at least that was true for the first few minutes of the chase. Suddenly, there was a series of odd thumps from below and a curious cknail looked over the edge just in time to see Malthusunch himself off a pile of crates, grab a post that protruded from a wall, swing himself up, twist through the air, and then roll onto the roof.


    The maneuver slowed the assassin down and left cknail with a strong lead so he wasnt too worried though. Even though Malthus was a Vessel he was still human so cknail was confident he could outrun him.


    The hobgoblin grinned smugly at the assassin without concern, until there was a shout from below and Malthus reached over the edge of the roof just in time to catch a crossbow one of his subordinates had thrown up to him. cknails smile quickly faded after that.


    Uh oh, thats bad-ss as bugs, he swore to himself.


    The still running assassin leader pulled out a bolt and started struggling to load his crossbow while he was still moving. Unfortunately, cknail was fairly sure he would get it right soon. He was proven correct a few secondster when an ominous clicking noise rang out behind him.


    All of a sudden cknail wasnt left with very many good options, so he jumped off the roof. A secondter a crossbow bolt whistled over his head and flew off into the city.


    The, still crossbow bolt free, hobgoblin now hung in the empty air over the street that ran beside the edge of the roof. A split secondter he began to drop inexorably towards the rather hard looking cobblestones below.


    So he twisted around and grabbed a clothesline that hung over the road. His weight dragged the line downwards and he began to slide down its length towards the center of the street, until the line broke with a sharp snap.


    Piss on crossbows! cknail hissed as he iled in the air and fell uncontrobly towards the ground again.


    There was nothing else nearby he could grab, so he tucked himself up and rolled when he hit the ground. The rough stone and gravel of the street dug into his back as he careened across the street and smashed into a stack of crates.


    Luckily, the crates werent solidly built. The thin wood shattered easily when the cart-wheeling hobgoblin hit them to reveal that they were stuffed full of packing straw. Bits of broken wood jabbed painfully into his sides as he mmed suddenly to a stop, but the cloak that he was now tangled up in stopped any of them from drawing blood.


    Ow, the hobgoblin whined as straw rained down around him. The only part of him that was visible was his feet. They stuck up into the air while the rest of his body was hidden by shattered crates and their contents.


    Hes down, get him! Malthus yelled from a nearby rooftop as he reloaded his crossbow.


    cknails head poked out from the pile of wreckage he was buried in and he spat out a mouthful of straw. He didnt feel so great. The city seemed blurry and to be spinning around him for some reason.


    There was something else that felt wrong too His face felt oddly exposed.


    His mask! cknail quickly pulled his mask back on. It must havee loose when hed crashed. Luckily, it didnt seem like anyone had seen his face. Herad had told him to keep his identity a secret.


    cknail shook his head to clear it and quickly rose to his feet, just as the first of his pursuers ran around the corner of a close by building and came into sight. It was time to go!


    There he is! one of the assassins yelled as he pointed to cknail.


    The hobgoblin immediately broke out into a sprint towards the nearest alley. He almost tripped as he struggled to untangle his cloak from his feet but caught himself at thest second. He had to get out of sight before Malthus reloaded that crossbow!


    He apparently made it because no pointy objects mmed into his back as he dashed for cover. The good news was that he was almost at his destination now. The bad news was that every bone in his body hurt and his vision was still a little blurry.


    The assassins entered the alley only moments after cknail, but he had already sprinted a fair distance ahead. Since Malthus was still more than a bit behind the hobgoblin took gleeful advantage of his absence. He pulled his sling out and sent a hail of stones at the men chasing him. They whirred through the air and smashed into the unsuspecting assassins.


    Bloody bastard, one of them swore as a stone mmed into his shin.


    He dropped to the ground, and he wasnt alone. Another assassin also took a rock to his stomach and fell. That left just four more assassins plus Malthus that were still chasing him.


    One of the remaining pursuers dove for cover and pulled a crossbow off his back, so ckail hurriedly fled down the alley. Rotten contraptions, why did all his enemies seem to have them? This would be a lot easier if he didnt constantly need to worry about being shot!


    cknail threw himself around the corner of a building and out of the shadows of the alley. He burst at a full sprint out onto a wide sunlit street.


    Ah, which way-ss now? cknail hissed to himself.


    All that dodging had gotten him turned around and he had to take a second to figure out where he was. He didnt dare slow down though.


    Homes made from wood and white ster lined the edges of the road, and the running hobgoblin drew curious nces from several people who were walking by. It was far from crowded here but there were several dozen rough looking men and women scattered about. This was Daggerpoint though, so he was mostly ignored. No one wanted to get involved in something that didnt concern them.


    The assassins ran out of the alley a few secondster, and Malthus had already gotten off the roof and caught up to them somehow. cknail veered left to ce a small crowd of six people between him and his pursuers just as Malthus raised his crossbow.


    What in all hells! a woman swore as she noticed the weapon that was seemingly aimed towards her.


    The rest of her group flinched and two of the men drew their swords. Malthus tossed his bolt thrower to the assassin on his left and then drew his own de. He dove forward with an angry growl and his sword shed through the air.


    The assassins de knocked one of the mens weapons aside and then he shed through the other''s exposed wrist. The second man shrieked in pain and his sword dropped from his now bloody mangled hand. Malthus then dove through the remaining unresisting members of the crowd and after the hobgoblin.


    Shouts of surprise and rm rang out as the assassin leader scattered people in his wake and they fled from him. cknail started running a little faster. He was almost there now!


    The street was now almostpletely empty of pedestrians as everyone fled from the ruckus, but now Malthus himself was between cknail and the crossbowman.


    The hobgoblin suddenly turned right and vaulted over a small waist-high wooden post fence that stretched the short distance between two homes. Hended on packed dirt with sparse grass sprouting up from it. Malthus was hot on his heels and the hobgoblin had to run as quickly as possible to stay ahead of him.


    A tall stone wall blocked his way, so cknail jumped up on top of a barrel and then flipped over the barrier. Hended in a cluster of bushes on the other side and quickly scrambled to his feet.


    There were no buildings on this side of the wall. Thick scrubby bush and gangly trees filled the area. The ground was dry and cracked but it showed obvious signs of flooding in the spring. That was probably why no one had built anything here. It was a forgotten little corner of Daggerpoint that had been allowed to run wild.


    While exploring the city cknail had discovered several ces like this, but this was the closest one to Herads base. cknail grinned as he ducked out of sight behind a tree. This is where he had decided to prepare his fun little surprises. It was time to see how these fat city humans did in cknails natural environment!


    As the hobgoblin watched Malthus appeared atop the stone wall. The man grimaced and cursed quietly to himself as he scanned the bush below him. He seemed hesitant to chase his target into the thicket.


    cknail was tempted to taunt him but he knew that wouldnt help. Not knowing where his target was and whether he had doubled back towards the battlefield was undoubtedly bugging him.


    After a minute or two Malthus cloaked subordinates climbed up onto the wall next to him. They also seemed less than happy when they saw whaty ahead of them.


    What do you think? Malthus asked.


    I think he led us here on purpose, an assassin remarked.


    Theres no way hes led us into an ambush. It would take a half apany to secure this bush and wed see signs of them, another man replied.


    Not to mention theres no way Herad would throw away that many men during a battle, Malthus added.


    What if he just wants to waste our time while we search this foul mess for him? He could be long gone, one of the other assassins asked.


    Malthus scowled darkly and stared into the bush and trees for any signs of cknail. He appeared to be deep in thought and conflicted about what to do.


    No, hes in there. Hes alone, wounded from his fall, and cornered. Im not losing this chance to take him out. I dont care if Zelena wins her little battle. I want this bastard dead. Daggerpoint is our territory; there isnt room in it for both us and this freak, he eventually told his men.


    There were reluctant nods of acknowledgement from the other four assassins, and together Malthus and his men jumped down into the thicket below. Theynded among the bushes and took up a spread out formation as they pressed forward.


    From where he was lurking and watching, cknail purred quietly to himself in pleasure and his eyes shed with malevolent joy. The chase had ended and the real hunt had now begun. His perfect n had reached the final stage.


    The hobgoblin carefully turned and began to silently creep away from his pursuers. He then purposely stepped on arge twig. The piece of wood broke under his weight and made a loud snapping sound.


    Instantly, the assassins turned towards the noise, but they couldnt see him through the heavy brush. They thus began to move carefully towards the source of the noise. cknail giggled to himself as he led them deeper into the shadows of the trees.

 Queen of Swords 13

    Queen of Swords 13


    As cknail slipped through the trees and around the nearby thorny bushes, a bird sang out from up above in the trees and drew his attention for a second. It had been a while since hest remembered hearing such a sound. There werent a lot of songbirds among the dirty streets of Daggerpoint.


    He could reminisceter though; right now he had people to hunt. Or were they hunting him? It was a little confusing


    The rustling of nts reminded the hobgoblin that Malthus was chasing him. cknail threw a quick look over his shoulder and was surprised when he saw nothing but living green nts and a canopy of leaves fading to red and autumn gold.


    He could no longer see the shaped stones and squat buildings of Daggerpoint. The hobgoblin stretched and straightened his posture as he felt an unseen weight leave his shoulders. It was good to be back among nature and away from the ces humans had made their own.


    He reached up towards his face with a wed hand and pulled his smiling mask off. The hobgoblin then tossed it aside into a bush where he could retrieve itter. This was not a ce for wearing masks. His green angr face broke out into a wide toothy smile as it was exposed to the world.


    In the wild, even in this little isted patch of it, things were different, purer. There was nothing to hold him back or make him question himself. His thoughts could run free without restraint or the weakness that came from hesitation.


    A branch snapped off to his left and the hobgoblins long green ears twitched as they picked up the noise. Without a doubt it was Malthus and his pack. The assassins were making quite a bit of noise as they moved through the woods, much more than cknail.


    The area here was more brush than true forest. The trees were small and spread apart enough that there was no real canopy to block the light. That just made the undergrowth thicker, though. There were bushes and tall stands of nts everywhere for him to hide in, and walking in straight line was difficult.


    The hobgoblin had assumed the assassins would be unustomed to wilder ces, and it sounded like hed been right. He was having no trouble keeping track of them and slipping ahead of them unseen.


    He wasnt even trying to conceal his trail but they didnt seem to be able to follow it regardless. Thus, he would have to remember to make some noise every once in a while. The humans couldnt be allowed to believe he had escaped. He needed them to follow him.


    It was a delicate game he was ying with these hunters of men. There was an uneasy bnce that had to be kept. To win and im his prize cknail would have to prey upon their instincts and shape their desires to his own end.


    He had to appear weak and vulnerable so to lure them in, and yet he couldnt allow them to draw in too close. He had to get them to walk into his trap and believe that it had been their own idea. Luckily, most humans were very stupid.


    As he approached a cluster of thin white barked trees the hobgoblin heard movement off in the bushes from a fair distance behind him. A secondter he heard the rustle of leaves from out of sight and over to his left. cknail took a second to look over his shoulder and scan the forest behind him.


    It really was quite easy to track Malthus and his men in here. He could hear their untrained footsteps crunching twigs and leaves as they pushed their way through the brush. The assassins were spread out but it sounded like they were keeping in sight of each other as theybed through the grass and bushes for any sign of him.


    Right now his prey was falling too far behind for his liking. cknail coughed and sputtered loudly, as if he was in pain and couldnt help it.


    He wanted them to think he was wounded and vulnerable, and not thinking about how stupid of an idea it was to have followed him in here. The more they underestimated him the easier it would be to trick them. The coughing wasnt really fake though, he had just fallen off a roof after all. That had hurt a lot.


    A loud twang-like noise suddenly split the air behind cknail.


    Eep! the hobgoblin squeaked in rm as he dropped to the ground and covered his head.


    A crossbow bolt ripped through the greenery with a whipping sound. There was then a loud crack as the projectile sunk deep into the bark of a tree trunk thaty several feet ahead of him.


    The forest behind cknail suddenly echoed with the crashing and snapping of nts as Malthus and his men shot forward and pushed their way through the forest towards cknail. It was time to get going!


    The startled hobgoblin jumped to his feet and dashed forward deeper into the trees. As he ran he snuck a look back and saw Malthus form burst out of a thicket of bushes and throw an angry look around. cknail quickly stepped behind a tree and out of sight.


    Okay, maybe he had let Malthus get a little too close that time. cknail was d the assassins only had one crossbow


    Damn that bastard to all hells! I thought we had him this time, Malthus hissed angrily.


    The master assassin was standing next to where cknail had been a few seconds ago and staring hatefully at the crossbow bolt stuck in the tree.


    Do you want to turn back? one of his men asked with more than a hint of nervousness in his voice.


    No, were right behind him, Malthus replied angrily.


    I still think this is a trap, the other man replied.


    Of course its a trap; we know that, and it doesnt matter. Stop letting a little patch of bushes and trees unnerve you and lets get after him, Malthusmanded his men.


    cknail took advantage of their discussion to slip away to the side and put some distance between him and his pursuers. He really needed to take care of that crossbow. It was too much of a wild card, and being shot would probably hurt a lot.


    The hobgoblin crouched down behind a bush and squinted as he watched the assassins. All six of them had been close together while they talked but now they were spreading out again. It was the one on the far right that held the crossbow.


    There was no way he could charge the man before Malthus intervened, and even using his sling would involve getting dangerously close and revealing himself. It also wasnt guaranteed to take the man down in one hit, and it might convince Malthus to turn around and leave.


    Well, it was probably about time to begin anyway. He had lured them deep enough. He would just have to position everything just right so that the crossbowman got taken out first.


    The hobgoblin slowly got up and crept further away from the assassins. When he was far enough away that a screen of bushes and leafy tree limbs concealed him he stopped. Then he looked down, selected a fairlyrge twig, and stomped on it.


    The twig snapped beneath his boot and a loud cracking noise echoed through the forest. cknail was already diving behind a tree. A secondter another crossbow bolt tore through the greenery and sliced through the air where his chest had been mere moments before.


    cknail picked himself off the ground and peered around the tree he had used as a shield. One of his eyebrows rose in surprise at how urate the shot had been. That assassin was really good with a crossbow. The hobgoblin was definitely killing that guy first.


    cknail hurriedly got up and began dashing through the forest. He made absolutely no attempt to be quiet about it, and instead just focused on keeping ahead of his pursuers. Underneath the sound of his own footsteps he could hear his pursuers. It was also important to keep the crossbowman too busy running to reload.


    Arge tree with dark droopy branches appeared on cknails left and he recognized it. With a cunning grin he ran up to it, and then threw himself onto the ground beside it. He coughed again loudly and then moaned dramatically.


    Secondster, Malthus and his men burst out of the bushes and saw him. cknail picked himself off the ground slowly as if he was in pain and had just tripped. The hobgoblin had discarded his mask but his hood was still up. It wasnt quite time to drop that yet.


    Ive got you this time! You cant escape now, and no one will being to your rescue, Malthus gloated smugly as he smiled.


    cknail ignored him and stepped around the tree. Which way would each assassin go?


    There was a click as the crossbowman began reloading and cknails heart skipped a beat. The trick here would be to predict exactly what the assassins would do. He needed to be careful though, Malthus had fooled him before by pretending to be too angry to think properly.


    Malthus signaled to his men using a quick series of hand gestures that cknail didnt understand. Immediately though, two assassin including the crossbowman started circling around to the left. Malthus and the other 3 men headed straight for cknail.


    The hobgoblin turned to face them and drew his sword. The crossbowman raised his weapon so cknail took a quick step backwards. The gnarly trunk of therge tree was now in the way of a shot, but the crossbowman and his guard just started nking cknail to cut off his escape as the rest of theirpanions descended on the lone hobgoblin.


    cknail had them exactly where he wanted them.


    So much for the Faceless Assassin! When you die at my hands it will be just another chapter added to my legend. You werent even much of challenge, although I have to admit youre a lucky fool and not half bad at running away, Malthus bragged as he drew his own weapon.


    Things are not-ss always as they seem, Malthus. Perhaps you are the one that-ss is about to die, cknail replied.


    I am the best killer in all of Daggerpoint and youre just a creepy little freak. No man is my equal. Ill take great joy in ripping that hood off your face and seeing what lies beneath it, the assassin leader responded angrily.


    cknail began tough and he didnt bother trying to sound human. His shrill malevolentughter rolled over the assassins and they flinched in surprise. Even Malthus looked startled by the sound.


    Stupid human, Herad is not a man and you ran from her. Soon, you will see my face and then you shall run from me as well, the hobgoblin cackled.


    Shoot him! Malthus roared impatiently but with a hint of fear. He had clearly been unnerved by the strangeughter.


    The crossbowman aimed his weapon and began to take a step to the left to get a better shot at cknail. The hobgoblin leaned around the tree and gave him a toothy grin. The assassin stared in shock and his eyes widened in horror at what he saw beneath cknails hood. That was when the spear took him in the stomach.


    The spear was a long sharpened branch that had been tied to a forcibly bent over sapling. It had been concealed in a bush and been triggered by the assassins foot hitting a trip wire. Saeter had taught him how to make them to hunt deer or wild boar but it worked on humans just as well.


    The crossbow fell from the mans ck hands and hit the ground. He gasped as he looked down at the wooden spear that was stuck in his guts and started shivering uncontrobly.


    The rest of the assassins gaped in confusion as they tried to make sense of what had just happened. That was when the sling stone smashed into the forehead of the assassin standing next to the crossbowman.


    There was a loud crack and a spray of blood as the stone tore through his flesh and mmed into his skull.


    cknail was already burning Elixir and dashing forwards before either of the assassins bodies began to crumple. The hobgoblinughed again as he ran towards the fallen mans weapon.


    It had worked! That was two men down. The first piece of the puzzle had fallen into ce and now all cknail had to do was follow the rest of the n. He was truly a sneaky super genius!


    Shit, what in all hells! a surprised Malthus cursed as he sprinted after the hobgoblin.


    The man was fast but not as fast as cknail. He may have been closer to his fallenpanions but surprise had slowed his start as well.


    cknail reached the weapon first and scooped it up. He spun around and grinned as he aimed it at the master assassin. Malthus reacted quickly this time and dodged away to the side, but cknail had predicted this. The hobgoblin shot the assassin that had been following in Malthus footsteps instead.


    That was three down. The man shrieked in pain as the bolt punctured his chest and then copsed a secondter. cknail quickly tore the string off the crossbow. He then threw it straight at Malthus charging form.


    The assassin flinched and batted the flying weapon aside with his de. cknail jumped to the side and dashed away. Thest two of Malthus minions that were still standing tried to intercept him and cut off his escape.


    No, dont chase him. There are more traps! Malthus roared suddenly.


    His cloaked subordinates froze in their tracks and warily scanned the ground at their feet while keeping one eye on cknail. They didnt want to be caught off guard by a shot from his sling.


    The hobgoblin himself ran to the edge the bushes and then turned back around. He was a safe distance away now.


    Malthus slowly and carefully walked over to hispanions side. He looked calm but cknail could see rage smoldering behind his eyes. It amused the watching hobgoblin. He liked pissing off Malthus.


    The master assassin suddenly whipped a throwing knife at cknails head, but he easily leaned out of the way. He was too far away for such knives to be much of a threat. Malthus growled as he stared at cknail.


    Do you think that just because you managed to take out a few of my men that youve won? Nothing could be further from the truth, Faceless One. As long as I live your days are numbered, and it will take more than a few traps made from pointy sticks to kill me, he hissed angrily.


    cknail justughed again. The time for hiding who and what he was over. Now it was time to spread delicious fear and panic.


    I have just gotten started, arrogant man. You wont-ss leave this forest alive. It was so very stupid-ss of you to follow me-ss here. Also, my name is cknail, and-ss I have a face, the hobgoblin replied haughtily.


    He grinned broadly and then reached up slowly to pull down his hood. His enemies froze as they got their first view of his green skin, pointy ears, long nose, and sharp jagged teeth. cknail could see the blood drain from their cheeks as they took in his inhuman visage. It made himugh again.


    Cor-Dius cloak shield us. Hes not human, one of the assassins whispered in horror.


    cknail took a step forward and stared into the eyes of the closest enemy. The man stared back with wide eyed dread.


    Rawr, the hobgoblin yelled as he lurched forward a step.


    The man shrieked and fell over backwards as he tried to stumble away. cknail chuckled darkly at the stupid human and licked his lips in anticipation of what was toe.


    He then turned to the still frozen Malthus and gave him a brief bow, before stepping into the bushes and out of sight.


    Soon the hobgoblins eerie voice promised as he walked away.


    He shivered in excitement as he crept through the forest and circled around his prey. The humans had yet to move. They stood there for several seconds without saying anything.


    We should never havee here. Were going to be killed and eaten! one of the men whispered fearfully.


    Shut up or Ill kill you myself, Malthus told him as he stared his subordinate down.


    The man was shivering in fear and he couldnt meet his boss eyes. Malthus snorted in disgust.


    So hes not human; it changes nothing! It wont stop me from cutting his head off with my sword, and it actually exins a lot, Malthus eximed.


    Hes right about one thing, though. We should not have walked into these woods, thest man added fearfully.


    Malthus grunted darkly in reply as he scanned the nearby greenery for signs of cknail. He was still looking more than a little pale and jumpy.


    That was definitely a mistake, but were far from finished. Im not scared of a little green freak that likes to hide in bushes, the master assassin told his men, but judging by their skeptical expressions they didnt seem too reassured by his speech.


    As cknail watched from his new hiding spot next to a pile of rocks and thorny nts, he smiled. Malthus was clearly lying. The wind reeked of blood and terror, and those delightful smells were only going to grow stronger

 Queen of Swords 14

    Queen of Swords 14


    cknail the hobgoblin stalked through the dense forest scrub with a merry spring in his step and a huge grin on his face. He had just killed three human warriors! How amazing was that? Incredibly super unbelievably amazing is what it was!


    When he finished off Malthus and hisst two minions it would be a total of seven human warriors! He couldnt wait to tell everyone about how awesome he was. Saeter would be so impressed, Herad would give him more cheese than he could possibly eat, and everyone else would finally realize how much better at everything he was than them.


    Up ahead, across a few dozen feet of thick bush, the three remaining assassins were slowly trudging back towards the city. They were slowed down by the need to check for traps and watch for ambushes. Much to cknails disappointment theyd already found and disarmed one that had been in their way.


    The hobgoblin was keeping his distance from his prey for now, and waiting for an opportunity to appear. At the pace they were going they wouldnt be able to escape from the forest any time soon, so he could afford to be patient. Rushing in would be stupid; Malthus wasnt a human he intended to underestimate again.


    After a few more minutes of watching, cknail stealthily moved up beside his quarry and narrowed the distance between them. The assassin to Malthus left was beginning to slow. Instinctively, the hobgoblins eyes picked out the fact that the mans legs were dragging and his shoulders had started to slouch.


    cknails heart beat sped up and his mind focused. Distractions and other thoughts were pushed aside as he studied his prey. He sensed weakness and that was an opportunity waiting to be taken advantage of.


    He tore his eyes away from the man and turned to study the terrain. If the assassins kept their current course they would soon pass next to a small ridge. It was the perfect ce for an ambush. Now he had both a ce and a target. It was time to put histest brilliant scheme into action!


    The hobgoblin picked up his pace and moved through the underbrush to cut off his quarrys path. He quickly crept through the trees until he reached the ridge. He then looked out from behind arge moss covered rock that sat at the very edge of the ridge. Malthus and his men were approaching so cknail quickly ducked back out of sight.


    The trio of men were looking very nervous as they carefully moved through the brush. One of them flinched and jumped slightly when he was startled by the cry of a ckbird. He wasnt cknails target though. The hobgoblin was aiming for the other assassin, the one that hadnt reacted at all and looked tired.


    As Malthus and his men drew closer, cknail took out his sling and silently loaded it with a stone from one of his pouches. He then peeked ever so slightly out from his hiding spot and watched hungrily for the right time to strike.


    Below him, Malthus turned away to look off into the opposite side of the forest and the fatigued assassin slouched and looked down towards his feet. cknail made his move. There was a quiet rustling as the unseen hobgoblin rose to his feet and then a loud crack as his spinning sling unleashed its payload.


    All three assassins flinched at the noise. The stone zipped through the air towards the off guard mans chest, and instead of ducking or dodging he froze. Malthus acted quickly, though. The master assassins cloak whipped around him as he moved with lightning speed and tackled the other man to the ground.


    cknail clenched his fists and hissed in annoyance as his projectile sailed harmlessly off into the trees. He didnt have much time for regret though; Malthus was back on his feet within seconds and headed cknails way.


    Come face me, you cowardly abomination! the Knifeman roared as he dashed towards the earthen ridge the hobgoblin stood atop of.


    Maybeter! cknail yelled back as he quickly ran away and disappeared into the trees.


    It took Malthus several seconds to climb up the small cliff thaty between them. The soil was loose and wet so by the time he got to the top the hobgoblin was long gone.


    Hells and damnation, The master assassin cursed loudly to himself as he looked around.


    He didnt give chase, though. Instead, he reluctantly turned back around and rejoined his men in heading out of the bush.


    Youre just going to let that thing get away? the anxious assassin asked.


    For now; theres no bloody way Im chasing that thing through its own territory. As far as I know the entire purpose of that attack was to try and lure me away and into more of those traps. No, all we need to do is get out of this damn bush and then were the ones with the advantage. Im not going to underestimate that creature. It must be a hobgoblin, and Ive heard stories about them, Malthus replied.


    A fair distance away cknail was hanging halfway up a slender tree. Its thick leaves hid him from below, but its thin grey trunk was still swaying slightly from his hurried ascent. It probably wasnt the best hiding spot but he was stuck there now.


    He waited there nervously for a few seconds as he listened for any signs of pursuit. When he didnt hear anything the hobgoblin carefully climbed down and began to creep back after his prey. Now that he knew they werent hot on his trail he was safe, and he couldnt let them get too far ahead or they would escape.


    As he moved the hobgoblins eyes narrowed and his forehead grew lined. He had a problem he had to think through and solve. His ranged attack from ambush moments ago had been an obvious failure. He hadnt managed to even wound anyone and hed even had to flee for his life.


    He was going to have to get closer if he wanted his next strike to seed. That would be difficult though; he would need a new n.


    The assassins were terrible woodsmen but they werent blind or stupid. They knew what he looked like and would see him if he got too close. Hmmm, what if he changed his appearance, though?


    cknail giggled and rubbed his hands together gleefully as a fun idea popped into his head. It was time to get down and dirty!


    It had rained a bit earlier that morning so there were still a few scattered puddles and patches of wet ground around. The hobgoblin quickly headed over to the closest one he remembered and took off all his clothes. It had been quite a long time since hedst run around naked, and it felt quite liberating, if a little cold.


    The hobgoblin hastily and enthusiastically jumped into the muddy puddle and began rolling around. Mud and dirty water sshed up in to the air as he shifted his weight around.


    It had also been quite a while since thest time hed done this, and hed missed it. The mud felt wonderful and cool on his skin, and so much better than wearing itchy clothes. Humans were so weird about covering themselves up. Theyd probably enjoy the asional mud bath if they tried it.


    When cknail got back up the green skin that was stretched over hisnky frame was covered in muddy smears. The result was shifting patterns of green and dirty brown that blended in with the forest around him. After bundling up his gear and discarded clothes the hobgoblin headed back after his quarry. The mud on his skin was already starting to dry and ke off as he ran.


    Once again, cknail circled around the assassins and got out ahead of them. Luckily, they had been slowed down because theyd run into a noose trap. The trap had done little more than snag one of the assassins feet and trip him, but it had prevented them from getting very far.


    From a safe distance away, the very dirty and naked hobgoblin watched as Malthus cut his subordinate free and helped him back onto his feet. The third man was keeping watch in case cknail tried anything while Malthus was distracted.


    Up ahead a thick hedge of thorny bushes cut the way forward off. There was only one real path through it. The tall briars had a gap in the middle of them that a human could easily walk through. It was probably some sort of game trail.


    Hmm, perfect-ss, the hobgoblin murmured happily to himself when he saw it.


    With onest look backwards to make sure the assassins were still upied, cknail stalked through the trees and over to the pathway. A quick inspection of the area revealed a leafy depression that would conceal him, so he climbed in. He was only a few feet from the edge of the trail.


    It was at moments like this that cknail really appreciated how bad humans sense of smell was. It almost made things too easy.


    Soon, his prey was moving again and the hobgoblin grinned in delight when they headed his way. From his hiding spot cknail waited for Malthus and the other men to pass by. He was both nervous and excited.


    All three of the assassins were keeping close together, but the thin trail was only wide enough for one person at a time to walkfortably so they were strung out in a line. Malthus was leading the other two and thus the first to walk by.


    The master assassin made his way warily down the trail. He carefully studied the heaps of thorn bushes and other thick nts around him as he walked.


    Then he stepped right next to cknails hiding spot and looked in his direction, but his eyes passed right over the hobgoblin. Nheless, cknails stomach twinged and he felt a sh of nervousness as he heldpletely still. He could have reached over and touched the master assassin.


    Then Malthus was past the hobgoblin and walking away from him. There were still two more assassins left, but cknail rxed and calmed down. Malthus was the one he was worried about.


    The first of the two remaining enemies walked by without seeing anything either. The cloaked man didnt even really bother to check his surroundings, most likely because Malthus already had. He just strolled along after his master. Now there was only the rearguard left.


    Thest of the assassins followed hispanions through the gap. The nervous looking man was mostly focused on keeping an eye out for people sneaking up from behind, so he only looked in cknails direction for a split second before turning back around to stare anxiously at the forest behind him.


    The assassin stepped next to cknail, and this time the hobgoblin reacted. The second the mans back was turned the almost invisible hobgoblin silently stood up and stretched out his long thin arms.


    One wed hand instantly snapped down over the unsuspecting mans mouth and sealed it, while the other reached around with a small dagger and quickly sliced open his pink throat. The hobgoblins victim tried to struggle and cry out but it was futile, his throat was gushing blood and cknail had him locked in a tight embrace. He couldnt even fall over.


    Malthus and the other man continued forward; they hadnt heard a thing. As he carefully watched them walk away, cknail kept his victims mouth covered and slowly lowered him to the ground. He had to keep very quiet. The faintest of sounds would give him away.


    The mans now unmoving corpse touched the earth without making a sound, and the grinning hobgoblin took a few quiet steps backwards. The other two men still hadnt noticed anything, so he wasted no time in dashing away around the tall thorn bushes and out of sight.


    Hed done it! Hed snuck up right under that arrogant fools nose and killed hispanion. cknail giggled to himself smugly. Who was the best assassin now? He was, thats who! The hobgoblin giggled again as he dove behind the bush where hed stashed his pants and the rest of his gear.


    Mere secondster yelling broke out from behind him as the dead manspanions noticed his absence and his corpse was discovered. Oh how cknail wished he could see their faces right now!


    Shit, he got Janus! The monster was right here and we didnt even notice. He must be ming invisible. We have to make a bloody run for it now! Malthus subordinate yelled with a voice full of fear.


    He sounded one step away from full blown panic, which made cknail feel really special. Even fully grown human warriors were terrified of him! He was so amazing.


    Be quiet, hes probably still somewhere nearby, Malthus replied sternly. You know why we cant make a run for it. Not only are there traps scattered around this ursed ce, but do you really think we could outrun a hobgoblin in a forest? One trip over a root or slip on some mud and wed be done. We need to keep our heads together and make for safety slow and surely.


    Thats not working, though! That thing is out there and its just ying with us! Its going to creep up behind us and slit our throats, and we wont even see iting. We have to run! the other man stuttered loudly in response.


    If you run then Ill kill you, and then you wont have to worry about the hobgoblin, Malthus told the other man coldly.


    Fine, youre the boss, Malthus. You know whats best so Ill stay with you. That hobgoblin is probably no match for you anyway, his nervous subordinate replied.


    Make sure you do, because Im watching you, Malthus remarked threateningly.


    Over on the other side of the thorn hedge cknail had finished putting his clothes back on and was considering their words. He scratched his bald head as he considered Malthus behavior. The man sure was mean. He had threatened to kill his ownpanion if he tried to run. The poor man was obviously terrified!


    cknail pulled his sling back out and sent a stone arcing over the bushes towards the assassins. It sailed through the air and tore its way through the greenery next to the assassins. It went nowhere near the humans but that wasnt the point.


    Thest of Malthus minions yelped and jumped up into the air when he heard the unexpected noise. A secondter he took off like a shot away from the bushes and Malthus.


    The master assassin sighed deeply in annoyance and there was a whirring noise that sounded suspiciously like a knife being thrown. Oddly enough, it was followed by the sound of a de sinking into flesh and a heavy thud. cknail grinned smugly; that was another one down.


    Its just you and me now, hobgoblin! Are you ready to fight? Malthus roared in challenge.


    cknail didnt reply. He wasnt quite ready yet, so Malthus would just have to wait. Right now any confrontation between them would be far too much like a fair fight for his liking.


    When no one replied the master assassin began trudging through the forest again. The hobgoblin followed closely behind him. Malthus was on his own now. Hed gotten rid of all the assassins minions but Malthus was by far the most dangerous of them all.


    The man was a far better swordsman than the hobgoblin. cknail knew he would need a special n to best the man. It was too bad he didnt really have one... Oh well, something would probably pop into his head before too long.


    Several minutester Malthus was getting dangerously close to the edge of the vacantnd and of returning to the city. cknail was running out of time. Hed been kind of hoping that Malthus would trip over a trap and kill himself, but that hadnt happened. No dangerous forest creatures had inexplicably appeared and eaten him either.


    As the master assassin walked out into small clearing that cknail recognized, the hobgoblin realized he had no choice. This was hisst chance to stop the man from returning to the battlefield, and if that happened Herad would get very mad. With a regretful sigh, the hobgoblin walked out of the bushes and into the grassy clearing.


    Here I am, Malthus. Lets fight, he announced half heartedly as he pushed a branch out of his way.


    So the monster shows itself. Whats wrong; have you run out of tricks? I told you that I wouldnt be done in by such petty traps or schemes, Malthus replied angrily as he red at cknail.


    The assassins de was already in his hand and he lookedpletely uninjured. He didnt even seem that fatigued, although his cloak and clothes had be stained and dirty.


    I got tired of your smell. Youve been upwind this entire time, cknail replied as he drew his own sword and strode forward.


    Malthus just smiled and carefully began to walk towards the hobgoblin. He didnt seem ruffled by the loss of his men or the events that had happened in the forest. cknail couldnt tell if it was an act or if he had been pretending earlier. It probably didnt matter, though.


    I admit that I misspoke earlier when I said my victory over you would be just one small part of my legend. Instead, it shall be among my crowning achievements. In fact, I think Ill have your head mounted and put on disy, the master assassin said as he took a fighting stance in the center of the clearing.


    The hobgoblin raised his own de and cautiously went to meet him. A gust of wind blew through the forest and into the clearing knocking autumn leaves loose from the trees and sending them swirling to the ground.


    As the killers eyed each other and began to circle one another, both their cloaks caught the wind and rippled. Then there was a sh of silver as Malthus struck first.

 Queen of Swords 15

    Queen of Swords 15


    cknail ducked as the master assassins sword sliced through the air towards his head. As a result the blow passed harmlessly above him. He then raised his own de to protect himself as he lunged forward to stab Malthus, but the assassin justughed and easily sidestepped the blow.


    Youre fast, but too predictable, Malthus told cknail with an amused chuckle.


    The hobgoblin grunted in annoyance. He then raised his guard again and silently stared his opponent down. Neither one of them looked away as their eyes met. Without warning Malthus struck.


    cknail hissed angrily as he burned Elixir for speed. A hot wave of energy ignited within him as he jumped backwards. The tip of Malthus de cut though his shirt and drew blood, but it was only a scratch.


    The master assassin immediately stepped forward and followed up hisst attack with another one. This time it was a horizontal sh aimed at the hobgoblins chest. cknail stepped forward to meet the blow and swung his own weapon. There was loud ng as the des collided, and cknail felt the pommel vibrate in his hands.


    A secondter the des slid down against each other until the swords locked. Both fighters eyed each other as they fought to keep their bnce and their swords up.


    Thats very hard on a sword, you know. They Malthus remarked snidely.


    Before he could finish though, cknails left boot shot up towards his groin.


    Thats not very sporting, the assassin joked as he easily twisted his hips out of the way of the low kick.


    However, his move forced him to shift his bnce and push his locked de up higher. Deep with the hobgoblins mind instinct and experience sparked. cknail lunged forward as he instantly acted on the sudden thought.


    With lightning-like speed the hobgoblins open mouth snapped towards Malthus hands. The assassins eyes opened in surprise as he was caught off guard by the move. Apparently bite attacks were rare in sword fights. cknails teeth grazed the mans knuckles as he jerked his hands, and the sword in them, back.


    The quick movement caused Malthus to stumble, and the hobgoblin mercilessly pressed his advantage. He stepped forward and battered the mans sword aside. As Malthus struggled to get his guard back up cknails de sliced towards his exposed shoulder.


    Blood wetted the edge of the hobgoblins sword as it cut into the assassins skin, but Malthus was already dodging to the side. The attack failed to cut deep enough and Malthus spun away without any real damage. The assassin then tucked himself into a ball as his body hit the ground, and the long grass of the clearing was ttened beneath him as he rolled away.


    The hobgoblin wasnt about to let him get away that easily, though. He charged after the assassin with his sword raised above his head and ready to strike. The distance between them rapidly shrunk.


    Just as he was about to catch up, a pair of slender projectiles flew out from the assassins form while he was in mid roll. Caught off guard, cknail could only flinch to the side to avoid the first one and il wildly at the second. He got lucky and there was a muted ng as his de safely knocked the spinning knife from the air.


    Malthus used this time to spring to his feet and retake his fighting stance. cknail hissed in annoyance. He had been so close to killing the bastard! Now they were right back where they started.


    Youre certainly a creative fighter, but youre not the only one with a few tricks up his sleeve, Malthus bragged as he grinned smugly.


    You talk-ss too much, cknail replied with a scowl.


    Whereas you apparently have better uses for your mouth, Malthus observed irately. I suppose I should expect such things from a savage beast like you.


    The assassin then scowled and wiped the small cut on his hand against his pants. cknail hoped it got infected. No wait, he hoped Malthus died way before that could happen.


    You taste like-ss a weakling, and smell-ss worse, cknail grumbled in reply as he spat off to the side.


    He then eyed his opponent carefully. The wound on the assassins shoulder was a sticky mess of torn cloth and blood but it seemed to have already stopped bleeding. It didnt seem to be slowing him down either. Malthus sword was held out in a high guard and it looked steady.


    cknail only had a superficial wound as well. He took up a basic stance of his own as he stepped forward. Both fighters hade out of the first exchange on even ground.


    It looked like things had yet to be settled. The next sh of swords would determine who the better swordsman was, so cknail wasnt going to do that. That would be really stupid and he wanted to live. He was going to keep trying to cheat!


    In fact, he already had a n in mind. He just needed to figure out how to set it up. The hobgoblin let his gaze slip away from Malthus and he scanned the surrounding brush.


    His opponent didnt give him time to think, though. Malthus advanced on cknail. He seemed eager to resume the fight, and that was just another reason cknail wanted to avoid it.


    There was a crunching noise as Malthus stepped forward and crushed a twig beneath his feet. The hobgoblin readied himself as the assassin moved into striking distance. Sure enough, his opponent immediately attacked.


    cknail blocked a flurry of quick strikes from Malthus, but every blow forced him backwards. The ng of steel on steel filled the clearing as their swords shed.


    cknail found himself slowly retreating as he desperately struggled to keep the assassins de at bay. The sword in Malthus hand flowed like water through the air and had a grace cknail couldnt match. The hobgoblin could only burn Elixir and muster as much speed as possible in an attempt to keep up.


    The bushes at the edge of the clearing were getting very close now. He couldnt back up forever. Not unless he wanted to risk tripping over something and then getting stabbed as he iled around on top of a thorn bush.


    cknail batted aside one sh that was aimed low, but Malthus de twisted back around toward his face in a quick fluid motion. The hobgoblin hissed in rm and threw himself to the side. Instead of following up though, Malthus took the opportunity to brag.


    Ive got your measure now. I suppose youre not a bad swordsman, all things considered. Youre better than you look anyway, but far from a master. This next pass will be yourst, Malthus remarked disdainfully.


    The assassin then lunged forward again with a confident smirk on his face. His de whistled through the air towards cknail.


    The hobgoblin stepped back to lessen the power of the blow and blocked it, but Malthus just grinned. The assassins dark cloak rippled as he spun around to the side. His de twisted around like a snake and suddenly an rmed hobgoblin found his sword being knocked from his hands.


    cknail managed to keep a grip on the hilt as the tip of the de was forced down. Malthus technique wasnt finished though. His own sword slid forwards and stabbed towards cknails gut. The hobgoblin hesitated for a moment, before letting go of his weapon and jumping out of the way.


    It hit the ground with a muted thud as Malthus stepped passed it. The assassin quickly descended upon the now unarmed hobgoblin.


    And now youre mine, he gloated as he raised his de above his head.


    A panicked look appeared on cknails face as he cringed away from the blow. He threw himself backwards and to the right, but there was nowhere for him to go. The thorn bushes were behind him and Malthus charge was too fast.


    The razor sharp edge of the sword sliced down towards him as the assassin stepped into range, but cknails mouth split open into a wide toothy grin and his panicked look disappeared. Malthus noticed the change and he hesitated, but it was far toote. As his sword swung downwards his foot hit the trap.


    Leaves and other debris exploded into the air as the rope concealed beneath the grass sprung into motion. It wrapped around Malthus foot and pulled it savagely into the air as the bent over sapling it was tied to unfolded with a loud snap.


    Ahhh, hells, the assassin yelled as the slithering rope wrenched him off of his feet.


    The sapling wasnt tall or strong enough to get himpletely off the ground, but it didnt have to. Malthus was dragged roughly across the grass and his head hit the ground with a loud thud. His sword slipped from his hands as he was pulled away.


    When he came to stop the stunned assassin was lying on his back next to the still swaying tree. His clothes were disheveled and he was covered in bits and pieces of torn up nts. It wasn''t the best look on him.


    cknail grinned smugly to himself as he appreciated his handiwork. It had taken a lot of work to ce so many traps everywhere but it had been worth the effort. It was a good thing he had spent so many hours learning to make rope...


    As Malthus groaned and blinked in confusion, the hobgoblin skipped happily over to his side. The fun part was finally here!


    And now youre mine, stupid human cknail gloated as he loomed over his prey and grinned wickedly.


    The hobgoblin wanted to take his time and enjoy this. What should he do to his catch? Should he skin him like a rabbit, cut off all his fingers and toes, or set him on fire? All three options had pluses and minuses. It was so hard to choose


    Oh, he knew! He couldbine all of them and make Malthus jerky! It probably wouldnt taste all that great, but it would be very satisfying in other ways.


    cknail reached down to pull one of his knives out, but was interrupted when he felt Malthus grab his leg. What was the man up to? He wasnt strong enough to do anything with his bare hands.


    As the hobgoblin looked down in curiosity he felt an odd tingling sensation. He frowned and then was thrown sideways as pain burnt its way up his leg. Hended on the ground several feet away and yelped as every muscle in his body started to spasm.


    cknail writhed painfully on the ground. What had Malthus done? Some sort of magic? Whatever it was, it hurt a lot!


    Ha, as if you could defeat me! Im the greatest Knifeman in Daggerpoint, and youre just a jumped up beast. My master selected me to seed him and trained me to be undefeatable. I have all his skills and the power of a Vessel at my fingertips, Malthus eximed as he cut himself free and slowly stood up.


    The assassin sounded pained and he made no move to approach the fallen hobgoblin, though. He seemed unsteady on his feet and barely capable of standing.


    The pain running along cknails nerves suddenly died down. He coughed and quickly rolled into a defensive crouch. As Malthus watched he stood up and met the mans eyes. Both them stared hatefully at each other as they caught their breaths and cleared their heads.


    The nearby songbirds had been startled by all the noise, but they resumed singing now that things were quieter. Around the twobatants colorful leaves continued to driftzily down from the trees onto the knee high grass.


    cknail hissed softly to himself. His entire body hurt, especially his leg, and the pain focused his thoughts. He now was utterly focused on killing his opponent. He would rip the man apart with his bare hands and enjoy the squishy feeling of his wet flesh between his fingers.


    Your pants are on fire, Malthus dryly pointed out.


    The hobgoblins first instinct was to ignore the man and assume it was a trick. However, his leg did sort of feel funny cknail looked down. There was arge hole in the cloth below his knee where he had been grabbed, and it was smoldering.


    Eeep, cknail yelped as he hopped up on one foot and began trying to put out the mes. He pped his leg repeatedly with his hands until it stopped smoking.


    It would be far too embarrassing to die by your hands, so Im going to have to go all out now, Malthus remarked with a pained sigh.


    As cknail calmed back down, Malthus unwrapped a thin short chain from around his waist. It was no longer than a mans arm and ended in a weighted hook.


    It didnt seem like that threatening of a weapon but Malthus wouldnt have drawn it without a reason. Something told cknail it was connected to the burning attack from earlier, and that could only have been caused by one thing.


    Magic, but youre not-ss a mage, cknail hissed in annoyance as he drew a pair of daggers and stared Malthus down.


    Indeed, Malthus chuckled. Not all Vessels are created equal.


    The assassin then raised a hand up to where cknail could easily see it. As the hobgoblin warily watched little tendrils of lightning danced between the mans fingers.


    Thats cheating! cknail eximed annoyance as he scowled.


    Its a shy trick, but it consumes a lot of very expensive elixir. Stabbing someone is almost always easier anyway, Malthus added in exnation.


    cknail hadnt known Vessels could do anything like that. Howe he didnt have a power like that? He wanted a fancy magic trick, and he didnt care how much it cost! It wasnt like he paid for his own Elixir anyway. Also, Mahedium was definitely going to get an annoyed visitorter. How dare he not give cknail the best magic possible!


    Thebatants were only a dozen feet from each other and had both recovered enough to move. Malthus took a step forward and began to spin his chain. It made a whirring sound as it cut through the air.


    cknail raised his daggers and took up a knife fighting stance that Saeter had taught him. He knew that the chain had to have some sort of trick to it.


    Most likely it could somehow shock him like Malthus touch had. If that was the case then this fight was going to be very bothersome, and more than a little painful.


    The hobgoblin kept his guard up as Malthus suddenly lunged at him. The mans spinning chain shot out towards his chest. He didnt try and block it. Instead, he dodged left and shed over the chain towards Malthus.


    The assassin simply stepped back out of the way. His chain had a lot more reach than a dagger.


    Crunchy maggots, cknail cursed.


    Knives werent the best weapon for this, and his sword was too far away to get at. Maybe he should have kept that crossbow...


    Malthus suddenly swung the chain around towards the hobgoblins head, and cknail was forced to duck out of the way. The assassin kept attacking without a break. The chain rattled as it swung towards its target over and over again.


    cknail managed to dodge every blow, but he couldnt get near his opponent. Malthus had too much of a range advantage.


    As he fought the hobgoblin furiously tried toe up with a solution. He needed a new n. What tools did he have on hand? What could he use?


    Suddenly, cknail remembered some of the preparations hed made earlier. There was something nearby he could use!


    As Malthus continued his assault cknail side stepped another attack and circled round to the left. With one eye on his opponent, he hurriedly started backing away. The assassin immediately followed him and his chain shed out at the hobgoblins legs. cknail jumped over the weapon and continued his retreat.


    Then Malthus lunged forward again and his chain smashed into the hobgoblins upper arm. cknail felt a crunching sensation as the weapon impacted his flesh and bone, but no shock. He reeled to the side but managed to keep on his feet. Ow, now his arm hurt too!


    Huh, your clothing must have been too thick. Ill have to hit somewhere else next time, or just beat you to death, the assassin remarked as he resumed spinning his chain.


    No, you wont-ss do any of those things, cknail hissed angrily back.


    He had grown tired of this fight. He was exhausted, in pain, and really wanted to kill this stupid stinking human bastard!


    The hobgoblin kicked the ground at his feet. The tip of his boot hooked a branch that wasying there and flipped it up into the air. Immediately, cknail burned Elixir and he felt the magic energy drive away some of his aches and pains.


    With inhuman speed he grabbed the long heavy branch out of the air and swung it at Malthus head. The mans eyes widened in surprise as the improvised club closed the distance between them. There was a loud thud and cracking noise as the branch mmed into his face and knocked the man over sideways.


    Malthus crumpled onto the ground, and cknail didnt give him any time to try anymore tricks. He stepped forward and continued his savage assault. The clearing was filled with wild growling and heavy thuds as cknail beat the man to death.


    Soon, there was nothing left but a wrecked and bloody corpse. The assassins skull had several dents in it, and one of his eyes had been knocked loose from his head. From experience, cknail knew humans couldnt survive nearly that much damage.


    Ha, I win! the exhausted hobgoblin moaned as he dropped the club and turned around.


    He was breathing heavily as he started slowly walking back to the battlefield. Both his leg and his shoulder hurt, but his mission had been aplished. It was time to return to his tribe, so he could demand extra cheese and take a very long nap.

 Queen of Swords 16

    Queen of Swords 16


    After a minute or two of walking cknail stopped and sighed in exasperation. He then turned around and headed back the way hede. Hed forgotten to do a few things. To get back to his tribe hed need to travel through the city and the people that lived there.


    He didnt feel like going back for his mask so he just left it behind. He did however fix up his clothes as much as possible so that he wouldnt draw too much attention. They had gotten very dirty and torn so he looted a few bits and pieces from the men hed just killed. They also made for convenient bandages to tie up his wounds.


    None of Malthus stuff was salvageable; nothing was left of them but bloody scraps. It had been totally worth it, though; he regretted nothing.


    Once cknail had managed not to look like some sort of murderous drifter, even if he kind of was one, the hobgoblin stepped back into the city. He slipped out of the bushes at the edge of the scrund and into a nearby alley.


    The cool air in the shady alley was a wee change from being out under the hot sun. All the clothing he wore got very hot when he did strenuous activities such as fighting off squads of assassins and dueling their leader.


    It didnt take him all that long to trace his way back to the edge of Herads territory. He kept his head down and his distance from any crowds as he walked the city streets. There werent a lot of people around anyway, and those that cknail did see were moving quickly and looked nervous.


    Word of the battle taking ce had undoubtedly already spread. All the magical explosions from earlier had probably gotten peoples attention as well. Like rabbits or mice that had heard an unexpected noise the citizens of Daggerpoint were seeking shelter and finding other less dangerous ces to be than out on the streets.


    As he drew closer to Herads base the sounds of fighting became more and more obvious. The cloaked hobgoblin stopped at the entrance to an alley and looked up over the city as he listened. It sounded like the battle had started up again.


    Zelena must have attacked again while he was gone. cknails chest tightened painfully as he felt a sudden sense of urgency. He picked up the pace and started to jog. He didnt really want to join the fighting but what if something bad was happening? He had to know how the fight was going.


    Quickly, cknail scuttled up the side of nearby building and pulled himself onto the roof. Once up in the sunshine he looked over to where Herads barricade had been built. Nothing remained of it but ash and the stone all around it was stained ck. The mes had scarred the city.


    Further back from the ze the cobblestone streets were red with blood. Ha, Herad really had dyed the streets of Daggerpoint with the blood of her enemies, and more than a few of her minions as well. Saeter had told him she wasnt being literal but hed been wrong!


    The killing was far from over, though. Below cknail the struggle for control of Daggerpoint was still ongoing. cknail frowned with concern as he realized Herads men were making a fighting retreat back towards their base. If the enemy reached the base then all of the hobgoblins things would be in danger, even his cheese!


    Zelena had finallymitted her own forces and theyd been joined by what was left of the mercenaries. A small solid square of shield bearing infantry were pushing their way down the center of the street. On both sides of them were loose mobs of Zelenas bandits.


    The attackers were steadily pushing the bandits of cknails tribe back, and they also had them outnumbered. They looked to have a man and a half for everyone in Heras tribe. However, the battle was far from over. Herad may have lost her tall wooden wall but cknail knew that shed made other preparations. Hed spent a lot of time avoiding having to help set them up after all.


    The advance of Herads enemies was slowed byyers of obstacles such as overturned carts and piles of sandbags. cknails tribe made ready use of the cover as they fought. Before they could be overrun they abandoned their barricade and moved to the next one.


    As the hobgoblin watched a group of archers appeared on a rooftop down the street and opened fire. After several volleys had fallen on Zelenas men the archers quickly disappeared before the enemy could muster a counter attack.


    After looking around for a few more moments cknail climbed back down onto the ground. The safest ce to be where he could still keep an eye on things would be next to Herad and his master. At least it would be as long as Saeter wasnt doing anything too stupid


    cknail hurried through the empty side streets that ran parallel to the battle. He ran until the sounds of battle were behind him. It was then that he noticed the sentries. There were two of his tribe posted at the corner of the street, and they were doing a terrible job because they hadnt noticed his approach. He wasnt even trying to be all that stealthy!


    Something really needed to done about how terrible humans were at watching and waiting. After all this was over maybe he should start attacking sentries at random. That ought to get them to pay attention, and all the really bad ones would end up dead.


    As the hobgoblin studied the two men in front of him, his first thought was that he should just slip past them unseen. He decided against it a momentter, though. That would take effort and he was too tired and sore for that sort of thing. Instead, he slowed down to a non-threatening walk and headed their way.


    The pair of sentries quickly noticed him and their shadowy forms tensed, finally. One of them stepped forward and drew their sword.


    Stop, who goes there? he shouted as he brandished his de in what looked like a poor attempt to look intimidating.


    It is I, cknail the faceless assassin and the greatest killer in Daggerpoint, the hobgoblin bragged in answer.


    Hed gotten thest title after hed killed Malthus. He was fairly sure that killing the old greatest killer made you the new one. If that wasnt case then hed just kill anyone else who tried to im it.


    There was no response for several seconds. Both the sentries started whispering to each other.


    Thats the hobgoblin, right? a thin man with a scruffy beard asked.


    Ya, tell him to drop his hood so we can be sure, the shorter bald one replied.


    Drop your the first man started to say before falling silent.


    cknail had already flipped his hood down. The bearded bandit squinted through the shadows at him


    Well, hes definitely a hobgoblin, he remarked in relief. He seemed d that a fight wasnt about to break out.


    Are we sure its cknail, though? the bald bandit asked apprehensively.


    His eyes were wide and his voice shook with anxiety. He obviously didnt like being in a dark alley with a hobgoblin. Hispanion turned and gave him a dry look. Apparently, cknail wasnt the only one who thought that was a really stupid question.


    No, its some other random hobgoblin that has decided to y dress up and wandered over to see whats going on. As if anyone but Saeter could ever tame a hobgoblin, or want to! the bearded bandit replied with biting condescension.


    The two men then started to argue and bicker heatedly amongst themselves. cknail just ignored them walked right past. They were too preupied to stop him. Clearly, Herad wasnt expecting a nking attack and was putting her less intelligent minions where they could do the least amount of harm.


    After a quick peek around the corner to make sure it was safe, cknail stepped out onto the main street. Before him was the rear of Herads forces. Bandits were running everywhere as they rushed to and from the front lines. A nervous energy permeated the air and cknail could smell both fear and excitement.


    In the center of all the activity stood Herad; she was only a few dozen feet from the fighting and was yelling orders as she waved her short sword around. At hermand bandits abandoned cover or held their ground and counterattacked.


    When a group looked like it was about to be overrun she and her bodyguards would dive in and join the fray herself. Enemies fell by the dozen when that happened.


    cknail couldnt help but notice two unfamiliar faces next to her that were also racking up quite the body count. Judging by their physical prowess and the dark look in their eyes cknail was pretty sure they were Sloshers sent by Avorlus. Mahedium had mentioned something about that earlier, hadnt he?


    The fear she and her bodyguards inspired among Zelenas men was obvious. They hesitated to approach her and were quick to retreat when she advanced. Only the mercenary formation was unaffected, and Herad seemed to be avoiding them.


    Suddenly, there was a shift in the way the enemy was moving. The ranks of Zelenas men parted and three humans stepped out into the now empty space in front of Herad.


    One of them was obviously a mercenary. He was wearing their brown tunic and armed and armored the same way as them. The second was a huge human male in crude leather armor with arge round belly and a long ck beard. He had a huge mace over his shoulder that looked to be the size of cknails entire body. The third was a tall woman with a chainmail shirt, steel helmet, and a long spear in her hands.


    The hobgoblin was willing to bet that they were all Sloshers. Herad must have thought so as well because she instantly focused on them and ordered most her men back, only Avorlus Sloshers stayed by her side as she marched forward to meet these new foes.


    cknail looked away from his chieftain for a second and tried to find Saeter. He scanned the nearby crowds but didnt see him anywhere near the rear. With a frown of annoyance and concern he started looking along the front line. There a sh of movement caught his attention and he spotted his masters face


    Ahh, Saeter was doing something stupid! Why was he fighting on the front lines? That was for dumb people and disposable members of the tribe! His master wasnt receable. Did he want to get cknail killed?


    Immediately, the frantic hobgoblin began pushing his way through the crowd of bandits thaty between him and the front line. He had to make sure his master was safe. Who else would feed and train him?


    For reasons beyond cknails understanding Saeter had his sword out and was fighting one of Zelenas henchmen. He was holding his own but he looked exhausted. His shoulders were slumped and his movements slower than usual.


    cknails heart started beating faster and a sick uneasy feeling grew in his gut. He picked up his pace and shoved a nearby bandit out of his way.


    As the hobgoblin drew nearer Saeter managed to parry his opponents de and then deliver a deep sh to his chest. The enemy fell as blood poured from the wound. For a moment cknail almost felt relief but it didntst long. Another enemy fighter stepped forward to challenge his master, and this one was bigger and had arger sword!


    Saeter raised his de defensively but he was too slow. Therger mans sword swatted it aside and sent the old scout reeling. As cknail watched his master copsed onto the ground and didnt get back up.


    The hobgoblin was sprinting now, and not so much pushing people out of the way as picking them up and throwing them. The uneasy feeling pulsating in his gut was being subsumed by a new emotion, a burning wave of all consuming fury. It raged through him like a storm of fire.


    cknails wed fingers tightened and curled. His eye narrowed and his lips curled up into a snarl to reveal his long pointy teeth. He was angry, very very angry.


    The thug standing over Saeter raised his sword high in preparation to strike. There were still people in the hobgoblins way, but he didnt care. cknail red Elixir. It mingled inside of him and seemed to drive his rage to new heights.


    So empowered, he jumped andnded on the shoulders of a surprised bandit. The man wobbled but cknail had already lunged away towards the target of his now intense and focused hatred.


    He hit the unsuspecting thug like a sac of bricks thrown by an ogre. The man coughed painfully in surprise, dropped his sword, and lurched sideways as the speeding hobgoblin smashed into him. A secondter he was falling over and cknail had his hands around the mans neck. A second after that cknails ws sank into the mans throat and the hobgoblin tore his windpipe out in a small gory red explosion.


    Several of Zelenas henchmen stepped forward to deal with the new threat, but they all froze in terror a secondter. The jump and following impact had thrown the hobgoblins hood back, and cknail was far too enraged to give a damn.


    He rose from atop his victims body with a vicious snarl on his face and blood dripping from his hands. A loud menacing growl echoed up from his chest and out through his lips as he turned to stare malevolently at his closest enemies. He would rip them all apart and bathe in their blood!


    Some of Zelenas men flinched away from his gaze, others paled and remained frozen in fear, and one blonde tall powerfully built man stepped forward to attack. cknail ducked under the blow and killed him with a knife through his groin. The man fell and bled to death in seconds.


    The hobgoblins bloodlust was far from satisfied; feeding it had just made it stronger and the cravings more seductive. cknail went for the weakest and easiest prey next.


    He grabbed the fallen mans sword and swung it towards the closest of his stunned foes. The hobgoblin Vessels inhuman speed took everyone by surprise. Before anyone could react the de had sliced off the mans hand.


    cknail was already spinning towards the next target. He shed up towards the thugs face but was stopped by a clumsy block. This didnt stop the hobgoblin. He pushed his de forward to knock the man off bnce, and then stepped forward. As quick as thought, cknails hand shot out and his fingers sank into the mans exposed eye sockets.


    More screaming filled the air. It seemed to synch with the hobgoblins frantically beating heart and was music to his ears. cknail withdrew his hand and gave it a quick lick. The taste of iron, blood, and brains felt wonderful on his lips. It tasted like belonging.


    A de sliced through the air towards him but cknail dodged to the side. Heughed gleefully as the ws on his left foot tore through the front of his boot and into the groin of an attacker. Then, another thug stepped forward and right into cknails de. The edge bit into his neck with fatal precision.


    cknailughed as bloodlust overtook him. All these stupid humans were so slow, and their moves were so obvious. He could kill them all day, and he would, because it was such great fun!


    He ducked under a wild panicked swing and gutted the idiot who had attacked him. A space had cleared around cknail now. Both friends and foes had fallen back from him and the pile of mangled corpses at his feet.


    The hobgoblin frowned as the sound of a yelling voice prated the red haze that surrounded him. One of his enemies was trying to summon some crossbowmen. cknail was so going to kill him next. He took a step forward to do just that when a hush fell over the battlefield.


    Almost everyone was suddenly looking towards the center of the battlefield, and then Herads voice echoed over it.


    Your Vessels are dead Zelena. They couldnt stand against me and neither can these pitiful drags you call an army. Now, do you dare challenge me personally or will you run like a coward? she yelled loudly enough for everyone to hear.


    There was no response from anyone on Zelenas side, so cknail took this opportunity to murder the man to his left while everyone was distracted. Unfortunately, he didnt die as quietly as the hobgoblin had hoped and his screams filled the air for a few moments before cknail could finish him off.


    cknail met the eyes of his next victim and stepped forward. The mans eyes widened in terror as he returned the hobgoblins gaze, and a secondter he turned and ran. The thug to his left followed him, and then running away suddenly became the popr thing to do.


    All around cknail men began to flee for their lives. Soon, it wasnt limited just to those few men near the hobgoblin. The rhythm of pounding boots on cobblestone rang out repeatedly as all of Zelenas men broke formation and turned to run. Even the mercenaries started to march slowly backwards.


    As they fled, cknail took a step forward to chase them but then stopped. As hungry as he was for new kills he couldnt help but notice that none of his tribe were in pursuit. Going after all of Zelenas men alone might sound fun but it was also probably unhealthy.


    The hobgoblin stood all alone on the blood covered street. As the red rage of his bloodlust slowly drained away, he remembered that hede here for a reason. His master had been hit! How could he have forgotten that?


    cknail spun around to find out what had happened to Saeter. He desperately needed his master to be alright. No amount of blue cheese could rece the man who had taught him so much!

 Queen of Swords 17

    Queen of Swords 17


    There was ragged cheering from Herads band as Zelenas forces fled for their lives. The shouts of dozens of tired but joyful men and women rose into the air as they celebrated their victory. Everyone still standing was d just to have survived the long day of fighting.


    With the battle now over, the anger and the energy that hade with it quickly started to drain from cknails body. Suddenly, he could feel all his injuries again and if anything they hurt more than before!


    The hobgoblin couldnt rest just yet, though. He immediately began limping around in search of his master. cknail needed to know if he was okay, and not dead or anything.


    What was he going to do if Saeter was hurt? His chest felt unpleasantly hollow just thinking about it, and so did his stomach. His master was the one that fed him most the time!


    It didnt take long for cknail to find Saeter. The hobgoblin winced when he saw his master lying up against the side of a building.


    Immediately, cknail ran over to his side and poked him in the arm.


    Are you-ss alive? Its not-ss my fault if you died, he asked as he crouched over his master.


    Saeter coughed, opened his eyes, and red angrily at the hobgoblin.


    Im fine, stop poking me you overgrown goblin! the old scout growled weakly.


    You dont look or sound fine, cknail replied in an unconvinced tone as he tilted his head to the side.


    Now that he was closer the hobgoblin noticed that someone had wrapped some bandages around his masters chest and left arm.


    Bah, Im just taking a brief rest. Im not so weak that a blow like that could do me in. Im just out of shape is all. Now leave me alone, Saeter said as he closed his eyes again.


    cknail sighed in relief as he stood back up. Well, his master was apparently going to live, so that was good.


    The curious hobgoblin decided to ask around and find out what exactly had happened while hed been fighting. A few minutester he got his answer.


    Apparently, the blow from the now very dead thug had merely stunned Saeter, and when cknail had charged in one of his nearby tribesmen had taken the opportunity to drag the old scout back away from the front lines.


    The rescuer was a young blonde man. He was one of the new recruits that Herad had hired in Daggerpoint.


    cknail walked over to him. The young man paled slightly as he warily watched the bloodstained hobgoblin approach. cknail smiled reassuringly but that didnt seem to help for some reason.


    Whats your name-ss?cknail asked him.


    Eylias, the man stuttered in reply.


    Obviously, he was awestruck being around an amazing bandit such as cknail. The hobgoblin wasnt surprised, he was really amazing.


    The hobgoblin stepped up in front of Eylias and looked him over carefully. The blonde bandit froze and his eyes widened in utter amazement. cknail thought he looked smarter than the average human, although that wasnt saying much.


    With snake-like speed cknail leaned forward and wrapped the man in a huge hug. Elyais panicked attempts to escape were futile.


    Thank you for saving Saeter! I like you, the hobgoblin eximed happily.


    Youre very wee! the man squeaked in rm as cknail squeezed his ribs together.


    You can be my minion. Ill show you how to make rope and kill people you dont like, the hobgoblin announced cheerfully.


    All the important bandits had subordinates, so why shouldnt cknail? He was pretty much the second or third most important bandit in the entire band!


    I dont think Eylias gasped.


    Most humans-ss dont. It doesnt matter; you just have-ss to do what I say, cknail exined as he let the man go.


    Eylias stumbled unsteadily as the hobgoblin stepped back.


    I mean Im already part of Richters crew so I cant be in yours, the man quickly said after sucking down a long breath.


    Ill just ask-ss Herad to fix that. Then we can go out-ss into the woods! cknail replied.


    The woods? the man asked with dawning horror.


    Sure, you need-ss to learn to hunt, and knowing how-ss not to get eaten or torn apart is important too, the hobgoblin told him.


    No thanks, I dont really want to learn that stuff, Eylias quickly blurted out.


    cknail just shook his head and sighed; he had expected this reaction. Humans were reallyzy after all, so they needed motivation.


    Dont worry! You just have-ss to do as I say, and then nothing bad will happen to you, cknail said with a dark look and a meaningful nudge.


    For added emphasis he then made a few stabbing motions with his hand. You could never exin things to clearly too humans.


    I see, the young bandit replied a few secondster.


    He sounded more than a little shocked and overwhelmed. The right side of his face also seemed to be twitching slightly. Well, it wasnt every day that a nameless disposable grunt like him managed to get such a great new position in the tribe!


    Off in the distance, the sound of Herad yelling could still be heard. Even though the battle was over there was still tons of work to be done. Men were rushing around to help the wounded, load all the corpses and body parts on wagons, loot the fallen, and finish off wounded enemies.


    The hobgoblin wanted to join in the fun but he was too tired and sore. He didnt have the energy left to wander around the battlefield and look for loot to take home.


    Oh well, most of his tribesmen would undoubtedly grow tired of their prizes and leave them lying around somewhere cknail could pick them up anyway. Most the things the hobgoblin wanted ended up in his possession one way or another. He just had to keep an eye open for all the despicable thieves


    Just then a pair of men arrived with a stretcher. cknail watched with interest as they loaded his master up and began to carry him back to base. That stretcher sure lookedfy and cknail was really sore from all the fighting.


    A few dozen feet away another man was carrying a stretcher and looking for wounded to carry. cknail decided to help him. With a cheerful smile on his face he grabbed Eylias and dragged him over to the porter.


    I want to ride-ss on this. Carry me back to base, he told the man with the stretcher.


    Its um only for wounded people, the porter replied uncertainly.


    Im very wounded. I can barely walk-ss and I feel like Im going to fall over. Now carry me-ss back to base or my new minion Eis will show you-ss how wounded I am, by hurting you the same way, the hobgoblin replied threateningly with narrowed eyes.


    The porter gave Elyais a confused look. The young blond just stared back with a bewildered look on his face.


    cknail drew his knife and started to pick his nails clean with it in a very conspicuous manner while he stared intently at Eylias. He got the message.


    Right, youd better do as he says, the young bandit reluctantly said.


    The porter looked between Eylias and cknail before shrugging and setting stretcher down on the ground. The hobgoblin then cheerfully jumped on and the two men started carrying him down the road. It was just asfy as cknail thought it would be. Heid back and enjoyed the ride. He should travel everywhere like this.


    However, they didnt get very far before their trek was interrupted. cknail heard the sound of familiar light footsteps approaching and he opened his eyes to see Herad headed his way.


    At first she gazed towards Saeters prone form and scowled in dissatisfaction, but then she turned towards cknail. Her eyebrows rose slightly in surprised amusement as she took in the sight the hobgoblin sprawled over the stretcher being carried by the two men.


    Ah, theres my favorite hobgoblin. I heard that youd walked back here on your own without any obvious injuries, but the sentries clearly must have not been paying enough attention. Youre obviously wounded so Ill have to punish themter, she told him.


    cknail grinned uncertainly as he stifled azy yawn. The two men carrying him froze at their boss attention. The hobgoblin noticed that his chieftain looked unusually happy. It made him ufortable, like being in the calm center of a storm. Apparently, all it took to put her in a good mood was the deaths of hundreds of her enemies.


    Yes, Im very wounded; it hurts-ss everywhere. Bad sentries, theyre terrible at their jobs. Ow, the pain-ss, he whined dramatically as he copsed back onto the stretcher.


    I see. Well, since youre obviously not too wounded to talk I need a report on what youve been up to. I gave a mission, she told him with a trace of her usual sternness.


    The hobgoblin quickly began telling his boss all about his n to take out the assassins and how it had worked perfectly! He grinned and made suggestive hand gestures as he recounted the daring escapes and close fights that had taken ce as hed dealt with Malthus and the other two dozen assassins with him.


    but now Im so wounded. Ow, the pain-ss is everywhere inside of me, cknail finished melodramatically.


    The bandit chieftain rolled her eyes and a small grin appeared on her lips as the hobgoblin spoke. When he was finished she shook her head in disbelief.


    Since youre so wounded I guess you wont be able to get you reward for a while, Herad remarked.


    Visions of blue cheese and meat pies shed through cknails head, and his stomach grumbled loudly in response.


    I can still eat! cknail eximed quickly as he sat back up.


    Somehow I thought that might be the case, Herad remarked dryly as she started to walk away.


    After a second she seemed to hesitate and then spoke up again without looking back.


    Oh, and cknail good job pulling Saeters ass out of the fire, she told him before leaving.


    When she was gone cknail rxed and copsed back down onto the stretcher in relief.


    What-ss are you two waiting for? Get moving! he growled at the porters.


    After returning to base and getting his own injuries patched up cknail curled up on his bigfy bed and took a nap. When he heard the sound of someone trying to wake him up he did his best to ignore it. Unfortunately, that proved difficult and he soon had to roll over and open his eyes so that he could re at Khita.


    Wake up, cknail. Youve already slept for over a day and Herad wants you, the young woman said as she reached over to shake the hobgoblin.


    Touch me and Ill bite you, cknail hissed as he rolled away from her.


    She wants you to follow her to a meeting with the other chiefs in Daggerpoint, Khita exined.


    cknail grunted vaguely in reply but didnt move. That sounded really boring. He was in no hurry to get off his wonderful bed and out from under his soft sheets.


    She wants you there to scare everyone and intimidate them, Khita added.


    The hobgoblins eyes opened again as he thought her words over. That actually did sound like fun. He could practice making scary faces. With a deep sigh, cknail sat up and looked back at Khita.


    Fine, Im getting up. Go away, he grunted.


    Hurry up; you dont want to keep Herad waiting, Khita replied as she walked out the door.


    A few minutester cknail was dressed in his usual clothes but without his mask. He was fairly sure he wouldnt need it and it was still in the bush where hed thrown it anyway.


    He then dragged himself out of his room and joined Herad and her hulking bodyguards at the main entrance to the base. Herad was dressed in a fancier version of her usual ck leathers and the shadows under her eyes seemed darker as well, but she smirked when the hobgoblin arrived.


    Either the effects of winning the battle had yet to wear off or she was really looking forward to this meeting because she was still looking unusually cheerful. She wasnt even glowering at anyone and it didnt look like she was about to kill anyone at all!


    With cknail in tow the two dozen bandits headed out towards the central district. They passed by the guards that stood watch over the border without incident and entered the better part of the city. After a brief walk past increasingly better maintained andrger homes they arrived at the mansion at the center of the city.


    More sentries like those that guarded the central district stood outside of it, but Herad ignored them. She strolled right past them and they quickly shuffled out of her way withoutment. A few of them noticed cknail and scowled, but the hobgoblin just threw them a toothy smile and they didnt say anything.


    As they approached, the doors to the mansion were thrown open and they marched inside. The room on the other side impressed cknail. It was the fanciest room he had ever seen. It was much fancier than even Lupheras or Avorlus homes.


    The walls were smooth pearly white ster and long wispy white curtains framed therge ss windows. Intricate silver chandeliers hang from the roof to provide lighting. Even the tables and chairs looked like pieces of delicately crafted art.


    Greetings, mistress Herad. If you would please follow me I will take you to the conference room, a sharply dressed servant exined with a bow.


    Herad nodded in reply and the man immediately led them through a side door and into a short hallway. He then pulled open another door and motioned them inside.


    The room on the other side of the door was dominated by arge round table. A dozen men and women were seated around it while a few dozen more stood around the edges of the room. Herad motioned for her minions to take up position along the wall behind her as she swaggered over to a chair and sat down at the table.


    Once again, cknail drew a lot of attention and no one seemed happy to see him. The hobgoblin ignored them. He was busy trying to find somewhere to sit down.


    Whoever had set up this room had been very inconsiderate in not including chairs for everyone, so cknail had to do a bit of problem solving. There was a small stand up against the wall and the hobgoblin simply took all the junk on top of it and ced it on the floor before sitting down. During the process a few of the decorations, including a silver candleholder, may have somehow inexplicably ended up in his pockets.


    Ahem, now that everyone is here lets get this meeting started. As you all know several important and unusual events have recently taken ce in this city, a well dressed older man with a grey goatee announced.


    Thats a bloody understatement, Governor, one of the rougher looking men at the table replied as he threw Herad an annoyed look.


    Its a small miracle that most the citys still standing. Some people have a lot to answer for, someone else added.


    Ha, who are you referring to, Ran? Herad replied with a scornful chuckle. I was simply defending myself, and I wasnt the one that brought a mercenarypany into the city with the intention of conquering it. Also, anytime you want me to answer for something you can feel free to challenge me to a duel. Ill dly ept that or arger fight. With Zelena gone and Fang dead I have thergest force in the city.


    Indeed, we are not here to reprimand anyone. While I have no say in what you do amongst yourselves in the outer parts of the city I myself dont consider Herad to have broken any of the rules we agreed to when I invited all of you into the city. However, Zelenas actions require some discussion, the Governor interjected.


    What do you mean by discussion? another chieftain asked.


    I mean that Im hoping we can agree to some rifications about the rules. In particr, Im talking about Zelenas use of mercenaries. There is presently no rule against hiring such forces but I think we can all agree that in light of recent developments its uneptable, the older man exined.


    I have no problem with that. While everyone is here Id also like to remind them that most of my band is operating down south right now, and that anyone else who enters my territory will be handled without mercy, Herad added.


    And what about Herads new pet there? That thing should be put down. It certainly shouldnt be roaming the city, let alone allowed in this room! arge ugly looking female chieftain eximed.


    cknail turned and red at the speaker. He was pretty sure she was talking about him. He wasnt a pet, though. The woman was obviously not that smart but cknail still didnt like being insulted. Well, Herad had brought him here to be scary so he doubted she would care if he spoke up.


    Like-ss that weak fool Malthus, you insult-ss me. Ill be seeing you-sster, he growled in his most sinister voice as he red at the woman.


    She flinched away from him as he spoke and she wasnt the only one. Several other people in the room appeared more unnerved by his ability to speak than his looks. Herad justughed.


    Id like to see you forbid cknail from anywhere or anything. Several people who used to sit around this table learned the hard way that he goes where he wants. Even running would be futile. If you think hes dangerous in this city you havent seen anything yet. He was trained to hunt and track by Saeter himself and hes a bloody hobgoblin! There''s nothing he enjoys more than hunting people through the forest. Im sure that if you apologize hell forgive you though, she remarked cruelly.


    cknail did his best to look threatening. He scowled at the men and women at the table and around the edges of the room. If that didnt get a reaction he smiled at them and licked his pointy needlelike teeth with his long agile tongue. That seemed to be what disturbed them the most.


    The chieftains soon started to argue amongst themselves and eventually even acting scary started to grow boring. The humans just kept talking and talking! cknail was just about to get up and wander around the room when the meeting finally came to a close.


    After what seemed like hours of arguing the only thing the bandit chieftains had agreed upon was the Governors proposal to ban mercenaries. If Herad had to deal with people like this all the time it was no wonder she wanted to kill everyone.


    After a brief walk back to their base, Herad was greeted at the entrance by Saeter. cknail was d to see his master up and about. The bandit chieftain dismissed her guards and turned to the old scout as they walked deeper into the building.


    What do you want, Saeter? she asked him.


    I thought I should inform you of a discovery I made while looking over the loot Zelena left behind when she fled the city, Saeter exined forebodingly.


    Herad frowned at his words and tone of voice.


    I take it that this isnt the kind of discovery that can be converted to cash? she remarked wryly.


    Depends on what you mean. One of the things in the storeroom was an oak chest, he told her.


    I remember it, Herad replied impatiently.


    Well, I thought it looked familiar so I tried to open it. The good news is that there were several small bags of silver inside. The bad news is that I opened it with this. cknail took it from Persus when the man''s caravan visited our camp. Saeter told her as he held up a familiar golden key.


    There was an ominous silence as Herad absorbed the old scouts words and then her lips tightened into a scowl.


    Maybe they just buy chests from the same locksmith, Herad replied a secondter as she stared menacingly at the key.


    cknails master opened his mouth to say something but Herad cut him off.


    Shut up, I was being sarcastic, Saeter, she hissed at him.


    Saeter closed his mouth and looked grim.


    Demons and damnation, that fucking weasel! Well, at least this exins why Werrick seems to have unlimited funds, the bandit chieftain eximed darkly as she glowered.


    cknail had no idea what they were talking about or why they were upset. It was just a key. He kind of wanted to ask for his cheese now, but it seemed like a bad time

 Epilogue: The Flow of Shadows

    Epilogue: The Flow of Shadows


    The in looking middle-aged man passed his coat off to the waiting servant. It was a well made jacket of the finest quality but you wouldnt have noticed that at first nce. It was tailored in a subdued style and had a simple design.


    As the servant stepped away, the man calmly adjusted the cor of his shirt and walked down the mansions hallway. He didnt bother to say anything to the servant or even acknowledge his presence more than necessary.


    The severe looking man ignored his surroundings as he moved, even though the inside of the building wasvishly decorated. His face remained absolutely expressionless.


    A long red carpet muted the sound of his footsteps as he walked. Night had fallen hours ago and it was pitch ck outside, but an abundance of bright oilmps lit the mans way. The light from them glinted off the expensive silver and bronze items that were on disy around the room.


    He reached the end of the hallway and unhurriedly pulled the door open. There was avish but cozy room on the other side and it had three upants. They were all seated around a small intimate table in the center of the room. All three of them looked up as the newest arrival entered and closed the door firmly behind himself. It clicked shut as the mechanism within sealed the room.


    The man gave each of hispatriots a quick look over, but his thin face revealed nothing of his thoughts. There were two other men and one woman at the table.


    One of the men was older than him and had a neatly trimmed beard, graying hair, and a smug twinkle in his eye. The other was younger, clean shaven, and didnt look to be in good shape. He had a pudgy cast to his features and looked like he was carrying extra weight.


    Thank you for joining us, Ressarus, the grey haired gentleman said as the man pulled out a chair and took a seat.


    Thank you for hosting this meeting, sir Ressarus replied politely but emotionlessly.


    I hope your journey here was less eventful than mine, the matronly looking woman remarked.


    She was wearing a long in dress that gave her a frumpy look and her long blonde hair was carefully braided. Altogether, it made her seem older than she actually was.


    I ran into no surprises, and Im d to see that youre fine and still capable of continuing to fulfill your responsibilities for thispany, Ressarus told her.


    Your concern touches my heart, the woman told him dryly as she tinkered with a wine ss.


    None of us are responsible for your travel ns, or how spectacrly they went wrong. Maybe next time you wont skimp out on hiring the necessary protection. We dont control the North yet, the younger man told her scornfully.


    I never said you were, the woman replied coldly.


    There were no servants in the room, and only a single bottle of wine on the table. Nor were there any windows in the walls. All the light came from a silver chandelier hanging overhead.


    Wonderful, now that the formalities are done with, lets get down to business. I have ventures of my own to get back to and a throng of lesser nobles that need to be kept in line, the bulky man suggested impatiently as he reached for the wine bottle and poured himself a cup.


    He then set the bottle back down and took a sip from his ss. Hisment earned him scowls of disapproval from the woman and Ressarus. The older grey haired man simply smirked as he folded his hands in front of himself on the table.


    Oh, whats with that stupid look on your face, Ressarus. Youre even less of a stickler for formalities than me, the youngest member of the group remarked irritably.


    Perhaps, but impatience is not something I approve of either, especially in business partners. I believe that the fact we went rushing in without proper preparation is the reason our ns have been recently dyed, Ressarus exined.


    Ah, youre talking about that mess in Daggerpoint. That was unfortunate, but I would hardly even call it a real setback, the older man replied.


    Yes, youre probably right that our impatience is to me for our failure there. We saw an opportunity to expedite our ns and took it. However, Zelenas failure simply means we are back to our old schedule, and all it cost us was a small chest of silver, the woman added as she shrugged without apparent concern.


    Ha, even we dont have unlimited funds. We shouldnt get in the habit of epting such losses. Investing so much money in that fool Zelena was a mistake on our part. We should have waited until Werrick could take things in hand personally, the bulky man remarked.


    Now now, we all knew this would be aplicated endeavor and that we would face setbacks. Let us simply move forward from here, the older man interjected calmly.


    Agreed, Ressarusmented.


    There were mutters of agreement from the other people at the table as well.


    So, we underestimated both Herads pride and herpetence, but that wont happen again. Based on what Persus told us we assumed she wouldnt make a good employee, so we chose to ignore her until it came time for Werrick to eliminate her. However, thesetest events have shown that we must deal with her directly, the older man added.


    Yes, the next time we move we must leave nothing to chance. For Werrick to control the North for us the ck Snake must be eliminated. I propose we spare no expense when we move against her; she must be crushed with overwhelming strength! the younger man told his partners.


    Winter is almost here so we cant do anything until spring. Im not sure if youve ever seen a proper northern winter, but it shuts almost all travel down, the woman remarked.


    That works both ways. Herads movements will be restricted as well. She will be stuck in Daggerpoint all winter. Come spring, she will assuredly then move South to reunite with the rest of her band. We simply have to get ready to strike once that happens, Ressarus exined.


    Wont that kind of manpower draw attention to ourselves? the woman asked.


    From who? The nearby lords are the next best thing to destitute. Hulgaron is kingless and Eloria preupied by myriad other concerns. We also have agents in ce that can make sure anyone looking is distracted if necessary. A group of merchants paying to exterminate some bandits is hardly suspicious, anyway. Anyone who even notices will probably apud us! the younger man exined.


    Indeed, it would even set a useful precedent. Since no one else is willing to stand up to all the nefarious bandits in the North, why should we not protect ourselves? When Warrick pushes South none of the powerful lords will care if we raise a small army of mercenaries to protect our interests, and once that happens Ressarus drawled on suggestively.


    The older manughed and smiled cheerfully at hispanions and poured himself a ss of wine. He then raised his ss up into the air in front of himself. He looked like nothing more than someones favorite elderly uncle.


    Then its official; I dont see any need for a formal vote. When the snows start to melt this spring the Broken Wheel Company will destroy The ck Snake and her band. Cheers! he happily announced.


    The others all raised their sses, even Ressarus empty one, and a chorus of cheers and the sound of chinking ss filled the room. None of the participants had any doubt in their minds that they would seed. The resources they controlled were simply far too great for a mere bandit chief to stand against.

 Prologue: Rooting in Broken Earth

    Prologue: Rooting in Broken Earth


    Just when you thought things couldnt get any worse, they do. Everyone has ns but no one can really predict the future, especially these days. There are a lot of high and mighty fools out there who think they can control the world but of course they cant Luphera told the man across the table from her.


    She was dressed in a long white dress and petticoat. It was an oddly conservatively outfit for the consort and information dealer.


    Seems to me like the powerful are at least very skilled at keeping themselves on top, even if they obviously arent very good at running anything. Im a prime example of this, myself, the Governor remarked with a self-depreciating chuckle.


    The two of them were by themselves in a small room off to the side of the Governors mansion in the center of Daggerpoint. They were seated across from each other at a table and the morning sunlight poured into the room from arge window.


    Rulers and authoritiese and go all the time. Most of them rarely leave much of a mark on the world before theyre usurped by someone else ruthless, cunning, and equally receable, Luphera told him after taking a leisurely sip of wine.


    No, thats just not true. Even terrible rulers leave an impression, sometimes more so than good ones. Take a look at the state of the world around us! Who is to me for all the wars, violence, and poverty if not some godsforsaken king somewhere, the Governor replied.


    Who knows? I was just recently reminded that the world is a muchrger ce than people realize, and most of it has never been seen by human eyes, the womanmented. Weve lived on this continent for hundreds of years but we never truly conquered it. Travel any direction but East and soon enough civilization just stops. To the West are the great empty ins, to the North lie dark frozen forests, and to the South grow the steaming jungles. We have no idea howrge this continent even is!


    The lesson on geography is interesting but I believe youre talking about Herads new pet, the older man said with a frown of distaste.


    It would be a very foolish mistake to think of cknail as anyones pet. Meeting him was very eye opening, in more ways than one, Luphera replied as she smirked smugly.


    The Governor just rolled his eyes and poured himself another ss of wine.


    If youre trying to shock an old man then youre going to have to try much harder, Luphera. The rite of Beldeva was quite popr among the cult of Tera-Nan when I was young, you know, he told his drinkingpanion.


    Hmmm, how intriguing, but I believe weve gotten off topic. I was talking about how the schemes of men and women are doomed to failure, Luphera responded.


    And I was disagreeing with you. I take it this isnt apletely philosophical argument, though?  the man remarked.


    No, it definitely isnt. Now that spring hase and the roads have opened people have began leaving the city. Just this morning Herad and her band headed back South for instance, the woman exined.


    Ah yes, the ck Snake goes to rejoin the rest of her forces and prepare for theing storm. My own investigations, as undoubtedly have yours, have revealed that there are significant forces set against them. Thus, her ambitions seem doomed and I suppose thats an example of ns going awry, the Governor remarked with a frown.


    The older man then took a deep drink of wine and sighed in fatigue.


    I just wish my own fate wasnt so tightly entwined with hers. If Herad falls and Werrick seeds in unifying the rest of the bands then he wont have much use for me. The city doesnt need a neutral mediator if it has a king, he added.


    Luphera smiled reassuringly at the man. She was rather fond of him after all. Without him and the deal hed made with the ouw bands so many years ago there would be no Daggerpoint, and he was one of the more interesting conversationalists around.


    I was actually thinking of the exact opposite. Werricks mysterious backers are powerful and have obviously made some very long term ns for all of us. Undoubtedly, they think theyve ounted for everything but they havent. The world is wider than they know and Herad could surprise them, she countered.


    So theyll try again. Even if the Wolf somehow gets himself killed Im sure they could find a recement. That mercenary band of Zelenas was quite the shock. These people arent fooling around; Herad is simply outmatched in this fight. I fear we will all soon be under someones boot, he replied bitterly.


    You might be right. Things change and it may soon be time for the North to have a ruler. Herad certainly seems to be the underdog here, Luphera replied as she turned and gazed thoughtfully out the window.


    A secondter she turned back to herpanion.


    The North is not so easily predicted though, andtely things have been stranger than ever. Ive recently expanded the scope of the information I collect, and what Ive received so far paints a messy picture indeed, she told him.


    Like what? the Governor asked in surprise.


    Things have begun to change. The ouw bands have done as they pleased for years now but that time may be over. The smaller more isted groups have started to disappear; something is preying on them. There are more and more reports of mutant and beast sightings, and just yesterday I got news of brazen attacks and thefts along the southern road by goblins. That hasnt happened in over a hundred years! After turning on itself for so long, I fear humanity has begun to lose its grip on the Northpletely, she replied darkly.


    Surely, youre exaggerating? the startled older man asked.


    No, as much as we both detest the very idea, a king may be exactly what we need. It is possible that even in victory our would be puppet masters may win themselves nothing.

 Explanation of Current Events

    Exnation of Current Events


    Okay everyone, here is an exnation of what I''ve been up totely and why there have been no recent releases. I''m very sorry about that but I''ve just been very busy.


    I have in fact been working on the story but not on writing new chapters. Instead, I''v been trying to improve the first half of the story. Your feedback would be much appreciated.


    I really feel that I''ve improved as a writer since I started and thus I''ve been editing the first few arcs. On top of just general improvements I''ve also been trying to bring it up to e-book quality and format.


    Below is a timeline for the story as it stands now. I had a much rougher timeline I was working from but as I actually wrote the story a lot changed. This is my first big writing project and I had no idea how to pace everything as I wrote. The Iron Teeth has turned out to be much longer and slower paced than I initially nned so some things need shifting around.


    Current Timeline: Warning Spoilers


    The Road North <ul><li>Merchant caravan in cage, thinking back to sewer life</li><li>Bandit attack, freed by Saeter</li><li>Training to do chores</li><li>Meets Vorscha and Garalhd</li>


    <li>Goes out to get rabbits and sees harpies</li><li>Meets Herad, reason for staying</li><li>Out hunting for deer and spiders</li><li>Sneaks into party and gets drunk </li></ul>


    Honor Among Thieves <ul><li>Wakes up with hangover</li><li>Rides Wagon and practices tying cord</li><li>Stop for the night</li><li>Does a lot of chores, skinning, smoking, gets knife and leather</li><li>Hunts with trap and sling</li><li>Bullying followed by Gehd and Herad fights</li><li>Goes out to get snares and slime fight</li><li>Search for cave and Mimic attack, goblins</li><li>Merchants arrive and trade, cknail steals key</li><li>Herad goes out to raid weapon shipment</li><li>Boar attack and disappearances</li><li>Raid returns with casulties</li><li>Ghoul infestation and battle</li><li>cknail sniffs out infection </li></ul>


    Written in Blood <ul><li>Bes a hobgoblin</li><li>Beat up by Saeter and given a sword</li><li>Kills bandit attrine</li><li>Khita is recruited</li><li>Training by Vorscha</li><li>Red Dog and Saeter attack deserters</li><li>They end up in tight spot</li><li>cknail sneak into deserters, kills leader</li><li>They recruit deserters, mage, prisoner woman</li><li>Troll Attack</li><li>Follow Troll back to it''sir and kill it</li><li>Returns to camp, see goblin </li></ul>


    Along Twisted Paths <ul><li>Herad and Saeter go North to Daggerpoint</li><li>Red Dog left in charge of camp for winter</li><li>cknail follows Saeter</li><li>Drake and Ogre Stampede</li><li>Runs into travellers</li><li>Run into goblins and fights harpies</li><li>Teaches goblins stuff and improvesir</li><li>Gets lost, uses human trap, and asks for directions</li><li>Arrives at Daggerpoint and scales wall </li></ul>


    Den of Beasts <ul><li>Stalks through alleys and explores.</li><li>Meets Luphera and gets information</li><li>Khita is ambushed and he intervenes</li><li>Follows her back to base and overhears Herad</li><li>Decides to kill her enemies</li><li>Visits Luphera and gets info</li><li>Sneaks into Fang''s base and kills him</li>


    <li>Runs back to his tribe and presents Herad with Fang''s head</li><li>Visits Avorlus with Mahedium and they return with deal</li><li>Failed attack on them by thugs </li></ul>


    A Tradesman''s Tools <ul><li>Wakes up in room</li><li>Training with Herad</li><li>Elixir from Avorlus</li><li>Under bed next morning</li><li>Goes out shopping and finds mask</li><li>Sent to kill Galive with Saeter</li><li>Kills him and avoids Malthus</li><li>Hears footsteps on roof while sleeping</li><li>Assassins and Malthus attack Herad at night</li><li>cknail kills some and chases rest back to Luphera''s</li><li>Sneaks in, kills man, and meets Luphera</li><li>rm is raised and he is convinced to kill man for Luphera</li><li>Fights guards and assassins then duels with Malthus</li><li>Flees through window but has to climb back inside</li><li>Hides in closet until Luphera kicks assassins out</li><li>Stuff </li></ul>


    Queen of Swords <ul><li>Goes out with Saeter to recruit</li><li>Run in with street children</li><li>Hears about ghouls but it turns out ot be Avorlus'' men</li><li>He is a bloodmage</li><li>Saeter confronts Herad and Mahedium</li><li>Preperations for war and construction of barricades</li><li>Zelena summons mercs and starts attack</li><li>Hired thugs fail to take barricade after Mahedium sts them</li><li>Mercs advance and blow hole in barricade with mage</li><li>Head falls back and sets wall alight</li><li>Mercenaries are pushed into mes and defeated</li><li>Assassins start targeting Herad''s archers</li><li>cknail is sent out to stop them</li><li>Lures Malthus into overgrownnd.</li><li>Uses traps and ambush to kill assassins</li><li>cknail goes back to battle.</li><li>Sees Saeter fighting and dives in to save him</li><li>Meeting of remaining bandit chiefs </li></ul>


    On top of a lot of editing to speed up the pace of the first few arcs I''ve been thinking about adding a new arc in after Written in Blood. The point of this would be too make the first half story more self contained and like a novel; so it has a clear beginning, middle, and end that gives readers more of a sense of progression. Again, this is also to fix the really slow pacing of the story at the start.


    Some ideas I''ve been throwing around for this are: <ul><li>Finding the cave and a battle with a powerful mutant, such as a giant snake.</li><li>Build up the world more naturally with resorting to interludes.</li><li>An attack by the knights from the beginning of Written in Blood to show more about nobles and society.</li><li>Very action heavy arc with lots of chaos.</li><li>Shows cknail''s character and social status growth.</li><li>Sets up the war in Daggerpoint</li><li>Earlier introduction of unique Elixir powers </li></ul>


    Tell me what you think and about any ideas you have!


    Another big thing I''ve been thinking about is rewriting the prologue to make it more relevant and have a bigger hook. A good story needs to get people''s attention in just the first paragraph and I''m not sure my current one does that. Some readers have alsoined about it being so long and the shift in perspective, and they have a point.


    New/Changed Prologue: The Shattering of Ways


    Blood poured from the mans wounds onto the cold ground beneath him. He was dying and beyond help now. He choked and gasped as bitter blood clogged his throat but he fought to hold still and at least die with dignity. In hisst moments, and in front of all these witnesses, he wasnt going to go out thrashing around like a fish out water. Burn that!


    He refused to have regrets, even though he had never gotten what hed wanted out of life. He had done the best he could and died for what hed believed in! His would be thestugh anyway.


    He could still feel the inhuman eyes that watched and zed with hate. The dying man tried to chuckle but all that came out was a weak gargling cough. The fools had no idea what theyd unleashed! They couldnt see how the world had changed and turned against them.


    As the mans vision grew dark, scenes from his past began to y out before him. Hisst breath rattled through his teeth and he couldnt help but think back to how it had all began


    The point here is to shorten the really huge and notpletely relevant prologue I have now and really get it to grab peoples'' attention in only a few sentences. The story is just so long now that keeping the same prologue wouldn''t make much sense. I''ll probably re-add it as an interlude.


    If you have any ideas or criticisms for any part of the story I would love to hear from you. It would be really helpful to hear from all my readers about what they think makes my story strong and what makes it weak.


    The more input I get the faster I can get this out of the way and get back to new chapters!


    -ClearMadness

 Rolling the Dice 1

    Rolling the Dice 1


    The loud creaking of the wagons wheels was somewhat muted by the frequent thud of footsteps on the dusty ground of the road. The only other sounds to be heard were the wind through the trees and the restless rustling of leaves.


    cknail the hobgoblin looked up from where hed been absentmindedly inspecting a set of tracks next to the road, near a thick clump of coned reeds. The footprints had caught his interest but they had turned out to be from nothing more than wolves. The forests of the North contained many things much more dangerous than wild dogs.


    A dozen men and women were walking alongside a wagon that had been piled high with goods. Their clothing was mostly tough looking leather and every one of them was armed. This wasnt surprising, since they were bandits who had just robbed a caravan and were now taking their spoils back to their base.


    Whats the hobgoblin doing over there? a nearby blonde man nervously asked the scarred woman walking next to him.


    Hes plotting to kill us in painful and humiliating ways, the woman replied sarcastically. Why are you bloody asking me? Why do you even care? He probably just smelled a rabbit or something.


    The ouws had gotten some great loot. cknail knew this because hed been happily looting the merchant caravan beside them. The bandits were hisrades and they all served under Herad the ck Snake.


    Not all the humans liked him, though. Some of them were jealous of his good looks and superior murder skills. Happily, a few demonstrations of those same skills had silenced the hobgoblins most vocal critics. They''d been very impressed.


    Recently, Herad had ordered all her minions to charge tolls instead of outright robbing people, but the banditsst target had been trying to sneak through her territory without paying. That meant they had to be made an example of, and so the hobgoblin had gotten to murder them and take their stuff. That was cknails favourite part of being an ouw.


    As soon as most the merchants were dead the hobgoblin had immediately sniffed out all the best loot and taken it for himself. After some hissing and snarling to scare away the other bandits, five wheels of cheese, a pretty red cloak, two roast ducks, and bag of shiny stones were all his.


    He couldnt wait to get home and show Saeter. The old ranger had been the one who had trained him and taken him in when hed been just a little goblin.


    What have you got there? a short cloaked man asked politely as he walked over.


    The man was one of the scouts with the mission. cknail was the other one. They were there to help track down their target and to keep watch on the forest. Most of Herads scouts were friendly towards the hobgoblin, and greatly respected his master Saeter. The old ranger was the best scout in Herads band.


    Nothing-ss, just wolf prints, cknail replied happily.


    Ah, theres probably nothing to worry about then, Wyre the scout said.


    Dunno, forest doggies arent that dangerous but there-ss are a bunch of people watching us from the trees behind-ss me, the hobgoblin told him.


    What? How do you know? the man asked as he jerked in rm.


    I smell-ss their trail all along the road. They were just on-ss it but they ran off in that direction when we got close, cknail exined.


    The hobgoblins master Saeter would have been able to detect the watchers by observing the flight of birds, or something. cknail didnt need to do that because most humans smelled like a pile of shit on legs. They were hard to miss.


    Wyre frowned thoughtfully and took a few seconds to process this.


    How many of them are there and what can you tell me about them? he asked.


    There are three men-ss, all in good health, and they were waiting here for a while before we-ss arrived, cknail replied with a shrug.


    Fuck, theyre probably not friendly then, the short man cursed softly. I cant think of a good reason for a small group like that to be hanging out here in the middle of nowhere. I have the unpleasant suspicion that they were waiting for us here.


    cknail nodded in agreement. As a general rule everything out here in the forest was dangerous and hostile. Humans were also a very violent race. They started fights over the weirdest things.


    What are they nning, though? Three men arent a threat to us, the scout mused.


    Lets go ask them. I like asking people questions, cknail suggested.


    After a brief talk with the other bandits, Wyre and the hobgoblin slipped into the bushes at the side of the road. Together, they stalked into the shadowy woods that bordered the road. They moved slowly and approached their target from the side to conceal themselves, but it soon became obvious their stealth was unnecessary.


    They didnt stick-ss around. They all ran that way, cknail mused as he examined a boot print in muddy ground.


    The forest was still damp and wet from the spring melt. The mud made it easier to track their quarry but also harder to move. It also meant there were a lot of annoying insects flying around.


    That way leads back to the road. They must have slipped ahead of us, Wyre pointed out as he swatted at an insect. Thats not something innocent passersby would do. It would be much safer just to hide and wait until we were gone.


    They were waiting-ss for us and theyve gone to tell someone that theyve found-ss us, cknail suggested as he pped a bug that hadnded on the tip of his nose.


    Damn, I think youre right. Weve got an ambush waiting ahead of us. Its the only thing that makes sense. They have to be out here for us, the scout cursed in acknowledgement.


    cknail got up and began moving back towards the road.


    Where are you going? hispanion asked.


    Im going to follow them. You stay here. Ill be right back, the hobgoblin answered as he broke out into a run.


    If these humans were going to meet up with their friends so they could all attack at once the solution was simple. He would just run them down and kill them before that happened. It would be easy. Humans were fat and slow while he was not only a hobgoblin but a Vessel as well.


    cknails cloak billowed behind him as he raced through the trees. He crushed broad leaved nts beneath his boots and smashed through the slight branches that tried to block his path.


    The hobgoblin could feel the Elixir in his blood simmer as he unconsciously tapped into it to boost his speed. The ability to drink Elixir and use it to strengthen himself was what made him a Vessel.


    A shallow woond stream appeared in front of him. It was flooded with water from the spring melt. Without stopping, cknail jumped across andnded on the other side.


    Wyre was already out of sight behind him. The human scout couldnt keep up with cknail.


    A secondter, cknail burst out of the forest and back out under the sun. He charged through the bushes and came to halt in the middle of the dirt road.


    He took a second to sniff the air and listen. He could hear the creak of the wagon his tribe had stolen down the road. The rest of hispanions were now far behind him.


    He could smell the men he was tracking. The scent was old enough that he knew they were still ahead of him by a fair bit. With a gleeful hiss of anticipation cknail kicked off the ground and started running down the road after his prey.


    At a full sprint, it didnt take him long to catch up. The hobgoblin heard the pounding of their footsteps before he saw them. There was a curve in the path ahead that blocked his sight, so he slowed down and nced around it.


    There were three men in front of him, running down the dirt road at a steady pace. For a second cknail almost mistook them for members of his own tribe. Their clothes were the same worn looking mix of leather and rugged cloth. They also carried themselves the same way.


    The hobgoblin didnt recognize anyone of them or their scent, though. They were definitely strangers. Who were they? They were enemies but of what kind? cknail licked his lips as the urge to hunt flowed through him. It didnt really matter who they were as long as they were eptable prey.


    Now wasnt the time to think; it was the time to strike. The hobgoblin dashed off the road and back into the forest, where he was harder to see. He had a n and he needed to get ahead of them for it to work.


    cknail didnt have time to move with absolute stealth so he made a fair bit of noise as he trampled through the brush. Even puny pink human ears would probably be able to hear him. Pink was a silly color...


    What was that? the smallest of the men suddenly asked in a spooked tone as he heard something out in the forest.


    It was probably just a deer or something, one of hispanions replied dismissively.


    Just keep moving. I want to put more distance between us and Herads men, thest man added.


    With long strides, cknail passed the running men and moved ahead of them. Even out in the bush he could hear their footsteps. When he had a fair lead on them, he turned and moved back towards the road.


    From the shadows, the hobgoblin watched the three unsuspecting men approach. As he waited, cknail reached into his coat and pulled out a vial of liquid.


    The Elixir in the vial tasted unpleasant as it hit his tongue, like dirty water with a hint of sour fruit. It had been a while since hedst had any. Hed been using only the traces left over since hisst drink.


    A familiar warmth spread throughout his body, from his toes to the top of his head. It was apanied by a rush of energy, which mingled with his desire to hunt and drove it to new heights. His teeth ached with need. It was time to attack.


    As the three men passed through an area where the forest encroached closely upon the road, cknail drew his sword andunched himself out of the bushes. There were only a few feet between him and the closest man.


    The rustling of leaves as the hobgoblin charged alerted his prey. They didnt have enough time to react, though. cknail was already upon them. The closest mans eyes widened in horror as he fumbled for the de at his hip.


    Before he could draw it, cknails sword sank into his chest. The hobgoblin didnt even try to pull it free, but instead immediately drew two long knives and whirled to the side.


    The man to his left raised a sword and stepped forward. cknail reacted faster. Before his enemys boot was firmly nted on the ground, the hobgoblin kicked his foot out from under him.


    Arrh, fuck, the man wheezed as hended hard on his side.


    A silver sword sliced through the air towards the hobgoblins head as the third man attacked. cknail dove under the swing. He shed at the mans arms as they went by. His dagger cut through the mans sleeves and drew blood.


    The wounded man stepped back but cknail stuck with him. The mans slow block didnt stop the hobgoblin from sliding to the side and shing at his arms again.


    cknail sniggered as kept up the pressure. He dodged the increasingly frantic mans swings and attacked again and again. Soon, the mans arms were covered in bleeding cuts. He was having fun now.


    The second man climbed to his feet and charged the hobgoblin with his sword held high. cknail stepped back from the man hed been fighting and spun out of the new attackers way.


    Combat stopped for a second as everyone faced each other. cknail gave his two ymates a wide grin that showed off his sharp and long tongue. The two men took in his visage and they both flinched in fear.


    What the fuck is that? Its not human, asked with obvious terror as his face paled.


    I dont know, just kill it! the other responded as he raised his sword with shaking hands.


    cknail giggled to himself merrily. That was so not going to happen. The scent of blood was thick in the air and he had to suppress a shiver of excitement. He could sense the fear that was starting to undermine his prey now and destroy their resolve.


    The hobgoblin dove forward. One of his opponents countered with wide defensive swing but the other jumped back in fear. cknails move had been a feint, though. He bounced backwards out of the way of the sword, leaving the man overextended.


    With careful precision, the hobgoblin stepped forward and knocked the sword down with one dagger. There was a hollow gasp of pain as the other dagger sank into the mans side. The short steel de parted flesh and slipped in under ribs as it cut its way into vital organs.


    Youre dead, cknail whispered gleefully into his opponents ear as the man began to copse.


    The only remaining enemys eyes went wide in terror. He stuttered as he tried to raise his sword up into a defensive stance. However, his cut up arms shook and seemed to lose strength. With a moan of despair, the mans sword fell from his grip. Blood flowed down his mangled arms and dripped from his fingertips.


    The whimpering man immediately turned and ran. cknailughed and then started humming cheerfully to himself as he pursued at a leisurely pace. His prey had no chance of escaping now. He had been hobbled and was leaving a trail of blood.


    The terrified man was dashing madly down the road away from the hobgoblin, but he didnt get very far. Soon enough, he tripped over his own feet.


    cknailughed again when the mans attempt to catch himself failed. His arms gave out on him a second time and his face hit the dirt with a loud thud.


    There was the sound of whimpering as cknail walked over to him. It was shame but it seemed the hunt was already over. His quarry had been no match for his Elixir powered speed and hobgoblin cunning. He was just too amazing!


    cknail crouched down and poked the fallen fighter in the shoulder.


    I think-ss Im supposed to ask you questions now, he mused to himself.


    Dont kill me! Oh, gods. Please dont kill me, the man sobbed weakly.


    No problem, just answer my questions. Who are you and why-ss are you out here waiting for me and my friends? cknail replied cheerfully.


    The mans request was a simple one and more than worth the reward. Now that the hunt was over his own bloodlust was waning. He felt no need to kill this man.


    You have friends? the confused man asked in disbelief.


    cknail scowled and poked the man again. This human was kind of rude. His long fingernail jabbed into an open wound and the man spasmed in pain.


    The men from earlier. The ones you were watching, the hobgoblin hissed in answer.


    Sorry, Im sorry, the man moaned. We were sent to watch the road in case any of Herads men came by. We were headed back to tell the rest of our squad you wereing.


    The hobgoblin took a second to think this over and lick his finger clean. It sounded a lot like an ambush. Who would be stupid enough to fight Herads men here in her own territory, though? His chieftain had a lot of warriors and was a dangerous Vessel as well.


    How many of you-ss are there, and who do you work for? cknail asked his captive.


    Please, dont eat me. There are thirty men at the camp. Theyre just an hour down the road, and we work for Werrick, the man quickly answered as the hobgoblin stared down at him.


    cknail shifted in surprise. He knew that name. When hed gone to the human city of Daggerpoint with Herad it had been mentioned a lot. A lot of the groups of bandits and human warriors they had fought in the city had been working for him.


    Im not-ss going to eat you. I said I wouldnt already. Now tell me, what does Werrick want? the hobgoblin asked next.


    Werrick was someone Herad really wanted dead, and the feeling was mutual. He was a bandit lord just like Herad, which exined why the men cknail had just fought seemed somewhat familiar.


    To kill Herad, the captive replied nervously. Were just the tip of the spear. Hesing here himself and bringing all his men with him, hundreds of them. He intends to destroy the ck Snake, and he has more than enough swords to do it.


    The man on the ground tensed as if expecting to be poked again. cknail just smiled instead. It sounded like there was a waring. What fun!


    The hobgoblin knew his chieftain. There was no way she would be taken down easily. cknail had watched her ughter foes that outnumbered her before. This time would be no different.


    Although, before he joined back up with her and his master Saeter he was going to have to escape the ambush waiting for him. He had almost forgotten about that...

 Rolling the Dice 2

    Rolling the Dice 2


    It took several minutes for Wyre to catch up, and a few more after that for the wagon to arrive. cknail was seated on a rock at the edge of the forest. The hobgoblin hummed cheerfully to himself as he watched theme down the road towards him.


    When his slow humanrades were close enough, he hopped off the rock and walked over to them. Wyre and the others warily drew to a stop as cknail came towards them.


    I see youve been busy, Wyre remarked as he took in the bodies that littered the ground. Are any of them still alive?


    Yep, that one there, cknail replied as he pointed. Im not stupid. I asked him a lot of important questions.


    Oh, what did you learn?" The short scout asked with obvious interest.


    They dont-ss have any cheese, cknail answered with grunt of disappointment.


    Anything else? The scout asked as he gave cknail an annoyed re.


    Yep, these guys brought-ss a lot of friends, the hobgoblin added. Theyre camped up ahead of us.


    Scowls and various looks of displeasure appeared on everyones faces. A pair of bandits turned and scanned the road up ahead, as if they expected attackers to appear at any second.


    Good thing you stopped them, then, one of the bandits remarked.


    Yes, nice job, cknail. Did your captive happen to mention why they want us dead and who they are? Wyre inquired.


    The hobgoblin smiled at thepliment. He had done a good job! He was such an amazing scout and ranger!


    Yep, I asked that! Theyre all-ss part of the army Werrick sent to kill us all, cknail exined happily.


    There was a shocked silence as everyone took this in. The hobgoblin gave the humans a few seconds so that their slow brains could catch up. Sometimes watching humans think was like waiting for someone to light a fire by striking two rocks together. It took a lot of time and effort to get a good spark.


    Ah, that would certainly make sense, Wyre eventually mused aloud.


    What the fuck? Bloody hells, I hope thats some sort of weird hobgoblin joke! one of the other bandits eximed in shock.


    If it is then its not bloody funny, another added.


    My jokes are funny, cknail muttered to himself.


    He didnt make a lot of jokes but when he did peopleughed. He was fairly sure they wereughing with him...


    Maybe, hes making this up! Are we going to trust his word? another scared sounding bandit added.


    Why wouldnt we? Wyre replied sternly. He has no reason to lie about this.


    Im not a liar, cknail hissed as he shuffled over and gave his captive a kick.


    Hes telling the truth, the man on the ground grunted.


    cknail gave the man who had questioned him a mean stare. Everyone else turned to look at the captive. They had forgotten he was still alive, because he certainly didnt look like it. The man was lying on his stomach with his wounded arms beside him. His face was turned away from them and pressed against the dusty ground.


    See, youre being paranoid, Wyre told the blonde man.


    Bah, why are you defending a bloody hobgoblin? That thing kills everyone around him! the blond man eximed.


    I dont kill everybody! cknail countered reproachfully. That would-ss be pointless and a lot of work! Look, I left-ss the captive alive. Were even friends now.


    Youre friends? Wyre asked skeptically.


    The scout turned to look at the prone form of the cut up man cknail had chased down. The cuts on his arms had mostly stopped bleeding but the long scarlet gashes and the trails of blood they had created across the dusty road were still very visible. Even the slight rising and falling of his chest as he breathed looked painful.


    Yep, we are definitely friend now, cknail announced loudly as he gave the man on the ground a light kick. I saved his life, from myself.


    Were... the best of friends, the man on the ground coughed painfully a secondter.


    Id hate to see his enemies, someone muttered.


    Im pretty sure thats not how that works. You cant save him from yourself, Wyre pointed out.


    Then I saved him from you. If you had-ss caught him would you have left him alive? ckail added with undeterred enthusiasm.


    Probably not, Wyre reluctantly agreed.


    Me neither, one of the other bandits added as there were mutters of ord from the rest.


    I promised to let-ss him live and everything! cknail added to support his argument.


    He had kind of forgotten where he was going with this... but that wasnt going to stop him.


    And thats actually a promise you intend to keep? Wyre asked with morbid curiosity.


    Why not? I have no reason to kill him. Im-ss a nice person. cknail responded. Also, Saeter said lying was bad-ss. If youre good and never lie then people will start to believe everything you say. That sounds amazing!


    Wyre blinked in surprise. He stared at the hobgoblin for several seconds. The scouts face waspletely nk and revealed nothing as the hobgoblin beamed at him.


    Ah, words of wisdom if I ever heard them, he remarked deadpan a secondter.


    After a few moments Wyre turned away and walked over to the prisoner. He crouched over the man and began to ask him questions of his own. When he was done he turned back to cknail.


    Lets get going now. Apparently, we have a hostile army to avoid. Do you just n on leaving this guy here? Wyre asked the hobgoblin as he stood up.


    cknail hadnt really thought about it. He wasnt against Wyres n, though. It certainly sounded like the least amount of work.


    Sure, he can-ss stay here. He wont be able to catch up to us and no one-ss should find him for a while, cknail reassured the other scout.


    Something will probably eat him, like wolves... or a hobgoblin, one of the other bandits muttered.


    cknail ignored thement and turned back to the man on the ground.


    When-ss you do get back to yourrades remember to tell them how-ss scary I am. Im frightening, you know! cknail bragged.


    I know, the man replied dryly as he turned and stared in fascinated horror at the hobgoblin.


    cknail liked how his new friend was absolutely terrified of him. He should probably encourage this behaviour in others.


    Also, Im going-ss toe back here soon and kill everyone in their sleep, cknail exined cheerfully to his captive. Ive been told Im good at that! Make sure you tell-ss everyone that. Ill let you live again though-ss, because were friends.


    Thanks, I think, the man replied quietly.


    He sounded somewhat delirious and out of it. cknail gave him an encouraging pat on the head to cheer him up.


    Come on, leave him, Wyre told the hobgoblin. We need to go. The longer we stay here the more likely it is theyll send someone to check up on their lookouts.


    With a sigh of resignation, cknail nodded and got up.


    All together, the bandits then started down the road again. One of them manoeuvred the creaking wagon around the bodies of the fallen. The horse pulling it seemed more worried about keeping an eye on cknail than anything else.


    Before he got very far down the road, cknail suddenly stopped. He turned back towards thest surviving member of Werricks men. Hed just had a great idea!


    Ill also spare people-ss who leave cheese out in the woods for me. Tell everyone! he shouted before turning and jogging after the rest of his group.


    When the hobgoblin had rejoined the others, Wyre turned to him and coughed loudly to get everyones attention.


    We slipped the noose just now, when cknail took out those scouts, but were still in danger. The enemy is between us and safety and our wagon is far from stealthy. Theyll spot it from a mile away, he told them.


    Then lets just dump it, a nervous sounding manmented.


    cknail gave the man a mean re to shut him up. His cheese was still on that wagon! Wyre also scowled and shook his head.


    Im not going to be the one to exin its loss to Herad. Are you? he asked.


    When no one replied, the scout continued talking.


    The roads the only way back, anyway. cknail and I might survive a jaunt through the forest but I doubt most of you will. No, were going to clear the route for the wagon and then make for safety as fast as possible, he said.


    By clearing the road you mean killing people, right? cknail asked.


    Yes, Wyre answered.


    Good, I can-ss do that, the hobgoblin replied confidently.


    Wyre ignored the smiling hobgoblin.


    The enemy will have sentries posted somewhere along the road. Ill take the North side and cknail will take the South. Together, well sweep ahead of wagon and take out their sentries unseen.


    Youre going to do everything by yourselves? the sole female bandit present asked.


    If we need help welle back and get it. If we dont then youll just be a liability. Its over either way if we get spotted, Wyre exined.


    No one else had any questions after that so they resumed their trek. Only when they got a little closer to where the enemy was supposed to be did Wyre signal for the wagon to slow. He and cknail then both stepped into the woods on opposite sides of the road.


    The hobgoblin licked his lips as he slipped through the bushes. He was on full alert and excited as he stalked silently under the trees. Today was going to be such a great day! He was going to hunt, not once, but twice!


    The speckled shadows of leaves cast by the branches above darkened the woods. Even though the road was so close the forest here was dark and oppressive. Only a light covering of small leafy nts grew across the ground.


    It wasnt so dark that the hobgoblin thought he would run into any giant spiders but he kept a look out for webs just in case. He really didnt like those creepy things.


    cknail came across a well worn animal path and stopped to sniff the earth. He could smell traces of rabbits and wolves. He also thought he detected a faint whiff of harpy.


    Wolves and harpies could both be dangerous inrge groups but cknail wasnt too worried about them. Food was plentiful in the spring and neither would risk attacking him. Even without a steel de in hand and magic lurking in his blood, a hunting hobgoblin was more than a match for them.


    With his focused eyes full of forest green, cknail continued on. There was so little underbrush around he had to move carefully to stay out of the sight of any watchers. Tall tree trunks stretched out before him in every direction.


    Soon, the ground began to slope upwards towards a hill. cknail eyed it carefully from below. He didnt see any sign of enemies, but he couldnt see the top of the hill and it would be a perfect vantage point from which to watch the road.


    It would be difficult to make the climb undetected by someone above so the hobgoblin waited and observed for a while. Patience was often the key to catching prey. He couldnt wait too long, though. The wagon was still moving down the road and would shortlye into sight.


    His patience was soon rewarded. cknail heard a rustling sound and then a murmur of voices. The hobgoblins long green ears perked up. The noise was clearlying from atop the hill. There were definitely people up there.


    Grab my bag when you go, someone out of sight said. If Im going to be stuck here I want it. And dont take too long. Theres supposed to be two of us here,


    Someone muttered a reply. cknail then watched intently from behind a thick tree trunk as a rough looking man with brown hair made his way down the hill. This was perfect!


    Carefully, the hobgoblin drew his sling and loaded it with a rock. A secondter, the unsuspecting man copsed after a rock ricocheted off his head. Smiling smugly to himself, the hobgoblin dragged his victims body out of sight.


    cknail then walked up the slope. At first he moved silently but then thest sentries back came into sight and he sped up. The man was preupied with watching the road and not looking his way.


    Do you have my stuff? the sentry asked.


    Nope, cknail replied as he bashed the man in the back of the head with a rock.


    The hobgoblin then just had to wait a few minutes for the wagon to roll into sight. From atop the tree covered hill he watched it make its way across the road. When it was safely past the lookout spot, he jumped down the hill and ran to catch up with the others.


    Youre back. Murder anyone while you were gone? the leading bandit asked cknail when he stepped out of the forest.


    Just two, cknail replied as he held up a pair of fingers. I found the enemy sentries.


    Good, did you find the camp? the man asked.


    Nope, I didnt see it-ss. Maybe its on Wyres side of-ss the road, cknail answered.


    It is and we need to move faster, the aforementioned scout announced as he stepped out of the woods. There were no sentries watching the road on my side but they had a few around the camp. I only got a quick look, but its not small or unorganized. It looks like a military camp and they have at least a few horses.


    You think theyll notice their sentries are missing soon and send riders after us? the female bandit asked.


    Of course, the gods never miss a chance to mess with us mere mortals, Wyre replied. Were simply going to have to move as fast as possible. Its all we can do.


    What if they just ride us down? someone who sounded nervous asked.


    cknail sympathized. Being chased by a bunch of horses with people on them didnt sound like fun to him either. From experience he knew it didnt usually end well for the person without a horse.


    Depends, if there are only a few of them then well fight. If there are too many for us to handle then well make for the woods. Theyll have to dismount to follow us, the short scout exined.


    There were a quick series of acknowledgements from everyone present and then they all picked up the pace. Wyre gave the chestnut horse pulling the wagon a p on its nk. The beast snorted disdainfully in response and gave the man an annoyed look but it began moving faster as well.


    cknail did his best to ignore the stupid creature as he jogged alongside the others.


    Cant you humans go any faster? This is very slow. cknail remarked after a while.


    We have to keep this pace up all day if we want to make it back to camp, one of the bandits replied angrily.


    So? Its still really slow. Stop being sozy and go faster, the hobgoblin told him.


    Im not bloodyzy! This is as fast as we can go. Were not all hobgoblins, Vessels, or batshit insane like you! the man shot back.


    Huh, I guess, cknail replied as he ran.


    After a moment of thought he dropped back to talk to Wyre.


    What do you want? the scout asked.


    We need to run faster, the hobgoblin told him.


    Unless you know magic or at least an incredibly inspiring running song thats not going to happen, the man huffed in reply.


    No, but I do have a n! I could go to the back and poke the slowest runner with a sharp stick until they go faster, cknail exined.


    Tempting, but no. Im going to have to pass on that, Wyre chuckled in response.


    Ugh, fine, the hobgoblin sighed.


    With such slow idiots forpanions there was no way the group was going to be able to outrun anyone. cknail picked up the pace. If they got chased down he nned on being at the front where it was safer. All the slow humans could take the brunt of the attack. Maybe that would motivate them to move faster...


    The running continued for quite a while. The sun overhead slipped behind a cover of thick white clouds and its light dimmed.


    All of a sudden there was a chill to the wind, as if winter hadnt quite gone away yet. The airs touch raised goose bumps along cknails exposed skin and he shivered slightly.


    The creaking of wooden wheels and heavy wheezing from the nearby humans filled the hobgoblins ears. Up ahead of him the road made a sudden turn. A particrly tall tree stood on the very corner of the bend. Its long trunk had grown on a nt and its drooping branches hung over the road.


    cknail was watching it out of the corner of his eye when he saw movement. As he focused, a figure stepped out from under the tree and froze in surprise. Several other people quickly appeared around him and pointed towards the hobgoblins group.


    Uh oh, this wasnt good.


    There are men ahead-ss of us, cknail hissed in rm as he skidded to a stop.


    Shit, I see them too, Wyre swore.


    The rest of their party stopped. The horse neighed when one of the bandits pulled on its reins to stop it. There was tension in the air as everyone stared at the new arrivals.


    There shouldnt be anyone from Herads camp out this way, Wyremented.


    Whoever they are theyve got us cut off, someone added.


    More and more people came into sight up ahead. There were at least as many of them as there were bandits in cknails group, and who knew how many more were still out of sight.


    The hobgoblin heard one of the unknown men shout, and suddenly des began to appear in their hands.


    Draw your weapons and get ready for a fight, Wyremanded everyone.


    cknail drew his de and threw a worried nce back at the wagon. It had finally happened... they hade for his cheese.

 Rolling the Dice 3

    Rolling the Dice 3


    cknail, the hobgoblin, snarled as the unidentified humans in front of him drew closer. They had weapons in hand and looked ready for a fight. Well, if it was a fight they wanted then that was what they were going to get. No stupid humans would be getting their dirty hands on his tasty cheese without a fight!


    We must defend the loot! cknail growled loudly to hispanions.


    Behind the hobgoblin, those of his fellow bandits that hadnt already taken out their weapons did so. The ranger Wyre pulled out a bow and hurriedly strung it. It wasnt a particr long bow but next to his short stature it lookedrge.


    Why are we listening to the bloody hobgoblin? one of the bandits whined with an edge of panic in his voice. When did that start to make sense? Theyre murderous savages! Maybe the horse has some tactics it would like to share as well?


    Were not listening to the hobgoblin. Were doing what Herad ordered us to, bring this wagon back to base, Wyre responded in a harshmanding voice.


    We should leave the wagon and head into the forest. This must be a trap! There are probably more of theming up behind us, the scared bandit said as he threw a nervous look backwards down the road.


    cknail growled. If the coward was allowed to run then the others would follow, and that was no good. The humans had to stay here and fight to protect his cheese!


    I dont hear anyone behind us and they havent surprised us. How could it be a trap, stupid human? the hobgoblin pointed out scornfully.


    What does a beast like you know? We need to run! the man shot back.


    cknail growled again in annoyance, and stepped up beside the man.


    If you run-ss youll never make it. Something terrifying out in the woods will kill-ss you slowly and painfully, me! he whispered to the cowardly man.


    The bandit paled and took a step back from the hobgoblin. He then threw a nervous look towards Wyre. The scout was too far away to have heard cknail, but he noticed the other mans reaction.


    Stand your ground, both of you, Wyre ordered. Theres no need to run yet. cknails right. I see no sign of us being encircled and they seem just as surprised as us to have run intopany here.


    cknail did as he was told. Not because Wyre was his boss, he wasnt, but because it was what he wanted to do anyway.


    Up ahead, one of the unidentified people detached from the rest and walked forward. His hand was raised up to shield the sun from his eyes. He appeared to be trying to get a good look at cknail and the bandits.


    Hey, I think thats Boots! the female bandit standing next to Wyre eximed. Theyre not enemies at all; theyre from Herads camp. Weve got reinforcements!


    cknail turned and looked. He squinted at the approaching man but could only make out the blurry outline of a face. Well, most humans looked alike anyway.


    It seems we hit a spot of good luck after all. Come on, get the wagon moving. Lets see what brings our fellows out this way. Not that Imining, Wyre announced as he started to walk forward.


    There was a loud neigh and the creaking of straining wood as the horse hitched to the wagon was signalled into motion again. cknail and several other bandits put away their des and followed after Wyre.


    Most the tension from earlier had already faded away. Now everyone seemed relieved and excited.


    Soon, the other group came into focus, and it became obvious they were from Herads camp. cknail recognized several of them, even if he had never bothered to learn most their names. Most bandits with less status than him werent that important.


    cknail quickly recognized the man leading the other group, though. It was his master, Saeter. The hobgoblin perked up and smiled happily. Now he could brag about all the amazing things he had done on this mission! His master was sure to proud of him!


    Youre early. Did you forget to pack enough food or something?  Saeter yelled their way.


    And youre not supposed to be out here at all. We almost ended up charging you! Wyre shot back. Did Herad finally kick you out, or did you just miss us?


    Bah, more likely you were about to piss yourselves and run, and who would miss your faces? cknails the best looking out of all of you, Saeter replied. No, one of the patrols ran across some signs of movement so were checking it out.


    cknail grinned smugly to himself after hearing his masters words. He was an amazingly handsome hobgoblin after all. Obviously, none of the humans could match the beauty of his long pointy nose. It was just the perfect length and shape.


    We... Wyre started to say before cknail cut him off.


    Im right here, master, the hobgoblin shouted as he waved enthusiastically in his masters direction. I saved everyones lives like twice! I also killed some enemies, snuck around a lot, and found some cheese!


    Im d you had fun, the old scout replied as he rolled his eyes and signalled for Wyre to speak up.


    cknails feelings were a bit hurt, but he would have plenty of time to talk to his masterter.


    As I was saying, on our way back we ran into some unexpectedpany, which would exin the signs of activity you found. It seems Werrick is on his way here, the other scout exined.


    Saeter frowned as he and Wyre met in the middle of the road. The pair began talking andparing notes. Neither of them looked happy.


    cknail found their talk boring. He already knew all that stuff. As he idled away the time, the hobgoblin saw a hint of something that might be a berry bush off to one side of the forest. All the walking had made him hungry, so he decided to investigate.


    Stay here, Saetermanded the hobgoblin, after only a brief nce his way.


    cknail sighed in annoyance but did as he was told. He spun around and made his way back over to the wagon. He had some snacks tucked away on it. No one couldin if he ate those now.


    A few minutester, after cknail had finished shoving half a loaf of bread down his throat, Saeter and Wyre decided on a course of action. The pair of scouts called all the other bandits over, and they gathered around.


    Theres no point sticking around, Saeter told everyone. We have no idea how many men Werrick has here. That camp may not be the only one, and we need to get the wagon back to base.


    Later, Im sure Herad will want to send a few squads out to watch and harass the enemy, but thats not our job right now, Wyre added.


    No one argued with them. All the other bandits simply nodded or said nothing. Most of them were deserters, and they hadnt left the army because it didnt fight enough.


    After a bit more instruction, everyone got moving again. The two groups of bandits melded seamlessly into one and started back down the road towards camp.


    Saeter had a rearguard put together to protect the wagon but no one attacked them. The only sign of the enemy was a single horseman off in the distance that observed them for awhile before disappearing. It was rather disappointing to cknail, really.


    The walls of thick bushes and trees that nked the road eventually widened to reveal a barricade of tall,shed together stakes. cknail gave the men guarding it a friendly wave, they were also part of Herads tribe.


    Behind the crude wally cknails home, the camp of the bandit chieftain Herad. The barrier was pulled to the side and the captured wagon rolled in, along with all the men and women apanying it.


    Saeter and cknail took a minute to unpack their gear and settle down after the trip. The hobgoblin had to make sure all his prizes and tasty treats were hidden away where hed left them.


    Youre all back early, Red Dogmented as he walked over to them. Should I be concerned?


    cknail looked over from where he was prying open one of the sacks on the wagon.


    Red Dog was the lieutenant whom Herad had left in charge of the camp when she had gone to Daggerpointst fall. Red Dog had been very disappointed to see cknail return with her. He had hoped that the hobgoblin had run off into the wild, never to be heard of again except in unsettling campfire stories.


    We need to talk to Herad. Things are moving quickly and not in a good way. It looks like some of Werricks men are moving into our territory, Saeter told him.


    So I should be concerned, Red Dog replied with a sigh. Damnation, I was hoping for another easy spring of robbery. Shit like youre talking about is how honest bandits like myself get themselves killed.


    Honest bandits? Wyre asked in amusement.


    I dont pretend to be anything else, Red Dog replied with a shrug.


    And here I thought you were without virtue, Saetermented. But enough chitchat, we need to report to Herad.


    Ill let you talk to her, Wyre added. She seems to like you best.


    The older scout gave the younger one an annoyed re but didnt say anything. Instead, he turned back to RedDog.


    Where is she? he asked the other man.


    The boss is at Vorschas cabin, right now. Theyre talking about supplies and stuff, Red Dog answered. I might as well go with you. It sounds like this is going to throw all our ns up in the air.


    Come along then, Saeter grunted as he started off towards Vorschas cabin.


    cknail followed his master as they marched though the camp. Crudely constructed wooden cabins of various sizes littered the clearing. They had all been builtst year as shelter from the winter that had just passed. Many of them wererge barracks-like structures that housed groups of bandits.


    The grass that had once dominated the clearing had long since been trampled down into dirt that was dusty in dry weather and muddy after the rain. In the center of the camp stood the old farmhouse Herad had taken as her own. Along the edges of the camp the tall trees of the northern forest loomed, reminding everyone that they were far from true civilization here.


    Herad was indeed talking to Vorscha. The pair of them were standing out front of her cabin as they conversed. Of the two women, Herad was very much the smaller. She was only of average size.


    When Saeter and the others came around the corner of another building, Vorscha saw them and pointed their way.


    What brings all youzy bastards back so quickly? I hope for your own sake that you actually followed my orders, Herad asked as she turned towards the new arrivals.


    I certainly did, as always. The men you sent with cknail ran into some trouble after taking their spoils and hurried back here with news, Saeter exined in a carefully neutral tone.


    By the time he had finished a cold look had appeared on Herads face. Well, colder than usual. Herad always looked like she was one step away from violence. cknail tried to attract her attention as little as possible, unless he had something to brag about.


    The Bandit chieftain ran her fingers through her short ck hair as she considered Saeters words. Her dark eyes stood out from her pale skin and were narrowed in thought.


    Well, this isntpletely unexpected. We thought it likely that Werrick, and the fucking bloody bastards that he has backing him, would move against us, the bandit chieftain replied as she scowled.


    Theyre moving very quickly, though. Faster than we thought they would, Vorscha pointed out.


    Therge brte women spoke with a hint of concern in her voice. She was wearing a loose cloth shirt, and crossed her arms in front of her in a way that highlighted both her lean muscles and her ample chest.


    Doesnt matter, Herad responded. The longer he waits the more men and equipment Werrick can rally. Having him move this early is to our benefit, not his. The impatient fool is underestimating me.


    Youre right, and that has me worried. Why is Werrick moving so quickly? He knows you wont be easy to beat in your own territory. He must be very confident for some reason, Saeter pointed out.


    Id be confident to if I had the kind of backing he did, Vorscha countered. With those crooked merchants behind him he can probably afford to lose his entire army and then just buy a new one. Manpower isnt hard toe by out here, with all the deserters feeling the southern wars.


    True, in Daggerpoint his lieutenant Zelena used mercenaries. I would be very surprised if Werrick hasnt hired a few more, Saeter added.


    If he relies on outside forces too much the other bands will never ept him, Herad replied with a disdainful sneer. He cant just buy himself an army and use it to control the North. That would make him too much like a conquering outsider out to crush all banditry.


    That wont do us much good if were dead, Red Dog muttered.


    If Werrick doese against me with a mercenary host then Ill retreat and wait," Herad replied as she drew one of the many daggers she had tucked around her person. Idly, the bandit chieftain toyed with it as she spoke.


    Hell have to leave eventually to deal with other bands and then well raid the forces he leaves behind. He wont be able to conquer the North with strength of arms alone. He needs to convince the other bands to follow him, and to do that he has to convince them hes one of them, she told her subordinates.


    Saeter nodded in agreement. A sh of annoyance gleamed in Herads eyes for a second in response. The old scouts approval always seemed to anger her for some reason.


    Most the ouws Ive worked with came North to escape the rule of Kings, Saeter exined. They wouldnt fall to their knees and ept Werrick as their master if he looked like a southern puppet out to destroy their livelihood and freedom.


    Which means we just have to worry about Werricks band and maybe a little outside support. He must have left some men behind but he undoubtedly still has more than us, Vorscha pointed out skeptically.


    Im not too worried if thats all he brings to the table, Herad said. We have the defensive advantage. We know the terrain, have fortifications up, and are building more. Ive outmaneuvered him before and this time will be no different.


    We need to be prepared. We should speed up construction, double our patrols, and cancel all leave. Every man in camp should be assigned to a job until Werrick is defeated, Vorscha suggested.


    Practical as always, Vorscha. Herad responded approvingly. Ill leave organizing that up to you."


    Off to one side, Red Dog sighed regretfully and grimaced to himself. cknail took a not so casual step behind Saeter, where he was harder to notice. He wanted avoid being given a job.


    The talksted for a few more minutes before Herad dismissed everyone. Saeter and cknail were given the rest of the day off, and they headed back towards their camp site.


    They lived in a pair of tents off to one side of the encampment, near the forest, instead of one of therger buildings. Both of them had spent the winter in Daggerpoint and liked to live simply. Everything Saeter owned could be packed up in a few minutes.


    As soon as they arrived, cknail happily ran over to his tent and began to unpack all his stuff. All the yummy snacks, shiny trinkets, and hard won loot he had acquired from hisst mission had to be put away. If he just left it out then a despicable thief would probably steal it! Some people were just savages.


    The hobgoblin took off his cloak and outer garments, flipped open the door to his tent, and crawled inside. The interior was small, but once inside cknails body heat immediately started to heat the ce up. Beneath him a small collection of nkets carpeted the floor, and his own familiar scent filled the air.


    The hobgoblin gave out an unexpected yawn and copsed onto the ground. He leisurely shifted the nkets beneath himself as he closed his eyes and smiled. It was sofy and warm here. If it wasnt for the need to eat and drink he would never leave.


    cknail gathered up a clump of nkets and rested his head on them like a pillow. One of the sheets was little more than a beat up rag but the hobgoblin didnt care. In fact, that rag was his favourite by far. It had been given to him by his master when cknail had been nothing more than a little goblin.


    His memories from way back then were blurry and confused but when he held the nket close and smelled it he was ovee by a sense of security and... something else. Was itfort and appreciation? It was a nice feeling anyway. It made him feel warm inside.


    A few secondster, cknail let out a deep breath and opened his eyes. He wanted to rest some more but knew he had things to do. Reluctantly, he reached into his pockets and started removing the best of his new acquisitions.


    A small metal figurine was taken out and ced off to one side. The tiny warriors bronze surface was dull but it still had a slight shine to it. Next, a ss eye was put down beside it. cknail snickered to himself as he remembered how hed gotten that. Fun times!


    Oh, there was also a little bit of biscuit in there. cknail pulled the chunk out of his pocket and shoved it into his mouth. He chewed on it as he slipped out of his tent and back outside.


    Up in the sky, the sun was a fair bit past midday peak. Small fluffy clouds were scattered around it but they didnt block its light.


    The hobgoblin looked down and at the human dwellings around him. He had a thoughtful expression on his face.


    The first thing that had to be done was chores, so cknail went to find the person hed told to do them all.

 Rolling The Dice 4

    Rolling The Dice 4


    The hobgoblin threw his cloak on and went to find Elyais. Before hed left to go on hisst mission, cknail had given his minion a list of chores toplete.


    cknail had saved Elyais life, or something, back in Daggerpoint. He''d forgotten the details but the important bit was that hed taken the man in as his minion. All the other important bandits had minions so cknail needed at least one.


    Eventually, cknail found Elyais outside one of the barracks. The blonde young man was standing several feet from a group of men ying dice. There was a small crowd around the yers, watching them y. Elyias was at the very back.


    What are you-ss doing? the hobgoblin asked as he stepped up right behind the young man.


    Elyaias hadnt seen himing. He rose almost half a foot into the air as he twitched in fear. A look of unrestrained terror appeared on his face for a split second before he got control of himself.


    Ah, what the hells? he gasped in shock. You! Youre not supposed to be back yet.


    Several other bandits noticed cknail and gave him wary looks, but they soon turned back to the game. They were used to him.


    Some enemies showed up, so we came back quickly, cknail exined cheerfully.


    Damnation, whats with my luck? I cant ever catch a break, Elyias muttered to himself in a muted manner that cknail could totally hear.


    Have you been a good-ss minion and done the jobs I gave you? the hobgoblin asked him.


    cknail knew it was important to keep your minions upied. His master had certainly made sure he had been busy all the time. You also had to be firm but fair with minions.


    Err, ya. I did, cknail, the young man answered. Your firewood has been reced, and I made sure no one went near your tent.


    What about all the traps? You emptied-ss them? cknail asked coldly as he stared into the mans eyes.


    Ah, no... I was going to but when I got out there something had torn most of them apart, Elyais replied uncertainly.


    cknail scowled at the man and stared him down. He was disappointed in his minion. The young bandit wilted under his gaze.


    Then you fix them-ss! cknail suddenly hissed angrily in exnation. I know you can make the string and set up the traps!


    The hobgoblins long tongue wormed its way out from between his teeth as he spoke. Elyais paled and furtively nced around for anything that would help him or distract the hobgoblin. He didnt find it.


    Meanwhile, cknail had to fight to suppress a smirk. He wasnt actually that angry. Hed been the one that had destroyed the traps, and hed known Elyais wouldnt fix them. It was all part of the teaching process.


    Ill get right on it, I swear, the blonde young man eximed fearfully. Just let me grab my gear.


    Fine, but Im checking the snares-ss tonight and if they''re not done... the hobgoblin drawled threateningly.


    cknail then snorted disdainfully and stomped away with over exaggerated anger. He could feel Elyais watching him leave.


    A few secondster, the hobgoblin walked around the corner of a building. Once he was out of sight, cknail stopped and swiftly turned back around. He then peeked stealthily back at the group of people around Elyais and listened in. He was pretty sure Elyais was going to be bad and ck off.


    Theres got to be some way I can give that creature the slip, the young manined to the bandit next to him.


    Hispatriot was a tall man with a pot belly and long ck beard. He was dressed in rough furs. Unlike Elyais, he had been part of Herads band since before cknail had joined.


    I wouldnt try it if I were you, therge man replied with an unfriendly smile. Just do what he says and dont piss him off. Let me tell you, some extra work is nothing. Fresh meat like you usually goes through much worse.


    Thats right, a bald woman with a vicious scar across her face added. Ive seen pretty boys like you forced to do all sorts of things. Although, maybe youre the type that wouldnt mind having a big strong guy to look after you and keep you warm at night.


    No, thanks, Elyais responded as he grimaced in distaste.


    Ha, then get to work, the bearded banditughed.


    I will, right after this round is finished. I want to see who wins so I know who to y with when I join inter, Elyais replied distractedly as he watched the gamblers in front of him.


    There was a tter of wooden dice and then murmurs of appreciation from the crowd as one of the yers got a good roll.


    Youd be much better off not ying. Even if you somehow ended up winning that would be worse than losing for you, the bearded bandit told him.


    Eylias muttered vaguely in response and stepped closer to get a better look at the yers. He seemed too focused on the game to pay the other man much attention.


    From his hiding spot, cknail sighed and shook his head. Elyais was going to get himself in trouble. He obviously wasnt that smart. It was a good thing he had cknail to look out for him!


    Well, that was a problem, or entertainment, forter. cknail didnt feel like harassing Elyais anymore right now. It would be more educational, and amusing, to punish himter when he didnt fix the snares in time.


    The hobgoblin turned around and headed back to his tent. It had been over an hour since he hadst eaten a full meal so he was hungry again. Time sure went by quickly when you were having fun!


    On the way back, cknail passed by Vorschas home again. Herad and Vorscha were both long gone, but therge womans minion and mate Geralhd was now outside. The skinny human was leaning against the buildings entrance way while talking with Red Dog and another man.


    Red Dogs hands were moving energetically as he spoke to Geralhd, and their conversation was loud and boisterous enough that it drew cknails attention. Maybe something important was going on?


    Fuck, and I was nning on going to town soon. I guess I wont be getting roaring drunk and visiting the brothels after all, Red Dog cursed.


    Get yourself a lover in camp. Its cheaper and you wont spend so many cold nights alone, Geralhd told him.


    No thanks. I prefer my women to be... less dirty and not so well armed. Give me a flower scented whore over the women in this camp any day, Red Dog replied with a wince.


    I find thatment to be more than a little insulting, Geralhd replied as his face took on an affronted expression.


    Ha, who cares? Everyone knows you only shack up with Vorscha for protection. Although, I wouldnt mind feeling up those big tits of hers once or twice myself, the third bandit interjected with augh and some rude hand gestures.


    The speaker was a man of average height but he looked to weigh a fair bit. His arms and legs were thick, if somewhat soft looking instead of muscled. His round face was covered by a short, patchy, brown beard.


    Geralhd red at the bandit angrily. They were about the same height, but Geralhd was much lighter and his face was clean shaven. He was one of the few bandits in camp that bothered with shaving regrly.


    Ill have you take that back, Urick. You shouldnt talk like that about Vorscha or me, Geralhd eximed furiously.


    Are you going to make me, pretty boy? Because I dont think you can, Urick replied with disdainful sneer.


    From where he was watching, cknail sighed and rolled his eyes. Why did Geralhd keep picking fights with people bigger than him? It was stupid. He should just stab them from behind.


    Dont start a fight, Urick. Ill be very pissed if you make me intervene, Red Dog told the other man.


    Bah, I havent started anything, Urick spat. Pretty boy here is the one thats getting too big for his boots.


    If he doesnt apologize then were going to have a problem, Geralhd told Red Dog.


    The bandit lieutenant just looked amused by hisment. A smirk appeared on his lips.


    Its not my job to make people say sorry, Red Dog replied dismissively. If you want a nice flowery apology then thats your business. Im not too worried about it, or Urick.


    Hear that? This is your problem, pretty boy, Urick announced cockily. You dont realize that, besides the gal youre shacking up with, no one likes you or has any use for you.


    Soundlessly, the hobgoblin walked up behind Urick and put a hand on his shoulder. His touch caused the big man to flinch in shock and turn his head around to see who it was.


    I like Geralhd. He feeds me so that I dont get hungry, cknail interjected meaningfully as he stared into Uricks eyes and grinned toothily.


    The unwashed mans green eyes widened and wentpletely still. His mouth hung slightly open as he stared uprehendingly at cknail. While Uricks brain was trying to catch up the hobgoblin turned and shed Red Dog a grin.


    Hello! cknail announced cheerfully.


    Apologize, Urick, Red Dog said grimly as he narrowed his eyes and scowled at cknail.


    I dont want... Urick began to say.


    Shut your trap and apologize! Red Dog hissed.


    The bandit hesitated for a second and threw Red Dog a confused look, beforeplying. cknail just kept on smiling.


    I take back what I said, Urick muttered grudgingly.


    Your apology is epted, Geralhd replied gratefully as he grinned cheerfully.


    The two other bandits scanned his face for any signs of smugness but didnt find any. He seemed genuinely happy to have the conflict resolved.


    cknail smiled and patted Urick on the shoulder in a friendly matter. They were all friends here, for now! The bandit looked confused; he still hadnt managed topletely close his mouth.


    Come on, lets go, Red Dog told Urick as he pulled the other man away.


    See you around, Geralhd told them.


    See, we can all get along if we try! cknail announced joyfully.


    I dont know how that idiot has survived this long. He must be the luckiest fool in all the North, Red Dog muttered to himself as he walked away.


    cknail thought that was kind of mean. Red Dog needed to rx more.


    Why did you make me apologize? Urick asked the other man peevishly.


    The big man looked annoyed and his hands were balled up into tight fists. Red Dog gave him cold re.


    Geralhds harmless, but you shouldnt give the hobgoblin a reason to dislike you. That monster will kill you for giggles and you wont see himing. It would also get away with it just fine. Its smart enough not to leave proof and to make itself useful to Herad, Red Dog exined quietly.


    The hobgoblin wasnt able to hear anymore because a beaming Geralhd took a step down from the doorway and spoke up.


    Thanks for the support, cknail. It was nice of you to stick up for me and show Urick that I have lots of friends, the unusual bandit told him.


    No problem, the hobgoblin replied as he waited expectantly.


    Here, have a treat, Geralhd announced as he reached into a pocket.


    The man withdrew a piece of candied meat and tossed it to cknail.


    Thanks, The hobgoblin replied as he smiled smugly and caught it.


    He had been pretty sure Geralhd would have a treat on him and that showing up would earn him it. He had the man well trained, so there was no way he was going to let some big stupid human injure him.


    Urick is such an asshole. I dont know how Red Dog can stomach being around him. Someone should stick a knife in his back, Geralhd muttered darkly to himself.


    Sure, cknail replied distractedly as he chewed.


    Urick was now on the list, which meant the hobgoblin would get to him eventually. cknail didnt mind killing him for Geralhd, but why was he so bloodthirsty? Whatever, humans were weird.


    Since youre here, do you mind running an errand for me? Gehd asked. I have some letters I need delivered. Mahedium is constantly sending out packets, so could you give mine to him?


    No problem, cknail answered happily as he finished chewing and wiped his hands on his shirt.


    A chore like this was sure to earn him another treat and it would only take a second. The hobgoblin grinned as he was handed several pieces of folded paper.


    What are these for? cknail asked curiously.


    He had never really understood the point of writing. Remembering things and sending people with messages worked fine for him. Most humans must have terrible memories if they felt the need to write so much down.


    I keep in contact with some my family. I may be in exile but I hope to one day return when my bounty expires. Who knew killing a twat in a fair duel could get someone in so much trouble? Geralhd exined with a frown. Also, I left some of my clothes and other stuff with my friends. I have to keep reminding them Im still alive so they dont sell it.


    That sounded veryplicated to cknail. Why hadnt Geralhd just buried his stuff somewhere no one would find it?


    Alright, Ill give these to Mahedium, the hobgoblin told the young bandit.


    If he let Geralhd start talking too much the man would never stop.


    See you soon, Gehd replied as he waved cknail goodbye and stepped back into his home.


    Felling happy to be helpful and fed, cknail wandered his way through the camp toward Mahediumsb. The log cabin stood apart from all the others and most of the bandits avoided it.


    Many of the humans were superstitious and wary of the mage. There were a lot of rumors about the dark sorcery that went on in his cabin, but mostly they avoided the area because of all the explosions. The roof of Mahediumsb had caught fire three times.


    After making sure Mahedium wasnt doing any dangerous experiments, cknail made his way up to the cabins door and stepped inside. If he knocked it might disturb the mage, so he just stepped inside.


    The first room of the house was the living quarters. It was a rectangr room with a scattering of furniture. A bed, a table, and a bookshelf dominated the room. Loose papers and open booksy on all the surfaces.


    cknail ignored it all and walked over to the door on the opposite wall from where hede in. That was where Mahedium would be, in hisb. As he moved a familiar yet unexpected scent reached his nose.


    The smell really didnt belong. cknails lips curled up into a grimace and his fingers curled up slightly as he contemted the smell.


    Quickly, the hobgoblin pushed through the door and entered theb. It looked like it usually did; only a few items had been rearranged inside.


    Tables and shelves full of equipment filled the room. ss beakers, metal tubing, and crystals were everywhere. There were no windows, light was provided by glowing mana crystals hanging from ceiling or set in tabletopmps. Mahedium had made them himself.


    The mage himself was leaning over a table and staring at a ss jar full of bubbling liquid. Beneath the beaker a small fire was burning steadily.


    The hobgoblin ignored all that and continued looking around for the source of the smell. A quick look from the door didnt work, so he took several steps in to the room.


    cknail, what are you doing here? Mahedium asked as he stood up and removed the spectacles he had been wearing.


    The mage blinked several times and looked confused to see the hobgoblin. He was an average looking man with short brown hair. Mahedium didnt even seem particrly old or young, just average.


    He was dressed in heavy trousers, a tan shirt that with long sleeves, and a thick leather apron. The apron was covered in burn marks and several unidentifiable stains of various colors.


    cknail stepped over and handed Geralhds letters to the mage. He briefly looked them over before taking them.


    From Geralhd, cknail exined distractedly.


    The hobgoblin peered past the mage and continued to scan the surroundings for his target.


    Ah, of course. I had mentioned to him that I was going to send a bunch of letters out to Daggerpoint and other ces, and he said he might slip a few letters in with my own, Mahedium thought aloud.


    cknail ignored him and kept peering around the room. The mage noticed his odd behaviour and frowned.


    Are you looking for something? the mage asked.


    Yes, I smell it, cknail replied grimly as he sniffed the air again.


    A look ofprehension suddenly appeared on Mahediums face. He turned away from cknail and nced toward one corner of the room. The hobgoblin followed his gaze and noticed a small cage sitting on a table.


    Ah, I had Varhs capture one for me, Mahedium told the hobgoblin. I wanted to run some experiments on Scamp but he wouldnt let me. So, I had him trap some wild ones and test them for the mage gift.


    cknail peered into the darkness that concealed the contents of the cage. There was as shuffling sound from within as something moved. The hobgoblins eyes adjusted to the darkness and the form of small creature became visible. It was a goblin! This was uneptable!


    Why did people keep bringing goblins into camp without asking him? It was incredibly rude! How would they like it if he brought in a bunch of random humans and let them spread their scent, wander around, and pee everywhere?

 Rolling the Dice 5

    Rolling the Dice 5


    cknail stared at the goblin in the cage before him. The creature was hard to see in the shadowy corner of theb. The only light was pale and came from the magic crystals across the room. Beside him, Mahedium continued talking.


    I keep it locked up most the time, Mahedium exined casually. I was afraid I was going to have to drug it or have it trained, but that hasnt been necessary. For some reason it seems mostly content as long as I keep it up high where it can see most of whats going on.


    The small creature in the cage was thin for a male goblin, but not unhealthily so. Itsnky form was hunched over as it regarded the hobgoblin that had suddenly appeared in front of it.


    Its eyes were what drew cknails attention. Not only were they bright red but they shone with something more than animal cunning: patient intelligence. cknail didnt like that one bit.


    As the two stared at each other, a smug grin suddenly appeared on the goblins lips. cknail growled softly in response. How dare this pipsqueak smirk at him! He was like three times his size!


    A secondter, the goblin turned away andid down in the far corner of the cage. The hobgoblin frowned at the unexpected action. Was that a sign of submission? Was it just crazy? cknail wasnt sure...


    Anyway, why had Mahedium brought this weird goblin here? This was cknails territory. Humans shouldnt be bringing goblins into camp without asking him!


    He wanted to yell at the stupid human but he tried to keep calm. He had seen the mage blow up buildings before and set dozens of men ame. There was no telling what type of Mana crystals he had tucked away on him and cknail didnt want to find out the hard way. It would be better to keep things polite.


    Stupid human! Why do you need a goblin? There are enough goblins here! cknail asked with a hint of anger in his voice.


    Red Dog would agree with you, Mahedium chuckled. Dont worry, I only take it out for short walks and experiments. I have to keep it healthy if I want to draw blood from it. Its very convenient to have another source of mage blood and not have to constantly cut myself. Maybe I should get an apprentice? Anyway, my fingertips havent been this smooth in years!


    cknail nced at the lock on the cage door. It was a doubletch. There was no way the goblin didnt know how to open it! The only reason it was still in the cage was because that was where it wanted to be!


    It just watches you do magic-ss and stuff? cknail asked doubtfully as he turned to face Mahedium.


    I guess. Its just a feral goblin though, so it probably doesnt even know what magic is. It probably just likes the fire and shing colors, the mage replied with an indifferent shrug.


    cknail threw a quick nce over his shoulder, back towards the cage. The goblin within was staring intensely at Mahediums bubbling ss jar and the crystal inside it, but it quickly looked away when it noticed the hobgoblins attention. Theplete fascination and intelligence in that gaze unnerved cknail.


    The hobgoblin was more than willing to bet that the goblin understood a lot more than Mahedium thought it did. Stupid humans! How could they be so blind?


    It even responds to one or two basicmands, the mage added appreciatively.


    I see, cknail replied tly.


    This goblin was deeply suspicious! Goblins didnt normally act like that! The hobgoblin squeezed his fist shut as he tried to rein in his anger.


    I dont like it. Can I kill it? the hobgoblin asked politely.


    Killing the goblin would simplify cknails life greatly.


    What? Theres no need for that. Here Ill show you, the surprised mage replied.


    The mage then reached down and utched the cage. The door swung open with a creak but the goblin didnt attempt to leave. Instead, it just looked up and gave Mahedium an inquisitive look.


    Out. Heel. The mage ordered it.


    Almost immediately, the little goblin stepped out of the cage and scampered over to Mahediums side. It looked up at him with a dutiful expression, which didnt fool cknail for a second. Suspicious!


    Much to the hobgoblins surprise the goblin then raised a green arm and offered it to the mage. Mahedium just shook his head, though.


    Hmm, I dont need to draw a blood sample today. Good boy, back into your cage now, the mage said as he pointed towards the pen.


    Sure enough, the goblin quickly hustled back into the enclosure it had juste out of. It kept its eyes downcast in a sign of submission to both cknail and the mage the entire time.


    See, the little thing is remarkably well behaved and incredibly beneficial to my research. Including the production of your Elixir, Mahedium told the hobgoblin proudly.


    cknail sighed in annoyance. The new goblin was a lot more obedient and useful than Scamp. Of course, cknail couldnt shake the feeling that it was just bidding its time until it could murder everyone in their sleep. No one was perfect, though.


    The goblin was more of a prisoner than a member of the tribe, no matter how well it behaved, so cknail didnt feel the need to beat the snot out of it so it understood the hierarchy. He was just going to have to keep an eye on the creepy little thing.


    Anyway, hed delivered the letter so he didnt see any reason to stay around here. cknail eyed the bubbling liquid on the table warily. Something might explode, and not in a fun way but more likely in a burning liquid in your eyes kind of way.


    Fine, its your problem-ss. Im leaving, cknail told the mage.


    The hobgoblin then threw the little goblin an annoyed grimace and stalked out of the room. It was gettingte now, so he decided to look for Saeter. His master should be starting to cook supper soon.


    By the time cknail arrived back at his tent, hed somehow managed to pick up a few new interesting trinkets, including a small coin pouch. It was weird how people just left themying around everywhere...


    cknail found Saeter seated next to his campfire. The old scout was stirring the contents of a big iron pot with a wooden spoon. The smell that rose from the pot as it cooked above the mes was heavenly. The hobgoblins mouth immediately began watering.


    Youre making stew! cknail eximed happily.


    The hobgoblin loved his masters cooking! Usually, he had to make his own food, and it was never as good as the stuff Saeter could cook.


    Weve done a fair bit of walking recently, so I thought we should put some weight back on our bones, the old scout replied.


    cknail eyed the big iron pot. It was almost full. That was a lot of food! It was time to stuff himself silly.


    His delicious thoughts were interrupted by the sound of people approaching. cknail had to fight a sudden urge to spin around and hiss threateningly. It was his food! They would have to fight him for it!


    Instead, cknail just looked over his shoulder and scowled at the neers. It was Geralhd and Vorscha. What did they want?


    Vorscha was his sword instructor, so he knew fighting her could only end badly for him. Geralhd also had to be handled carefully. The man kept cknail well supplied with snacks. cknail didnt want to scare him away. Hopefully neither of them was after his food.


    What are you two doing here? Saeter asked suspiciously as he looked up from the pot.


    Do we need a reason to visit a good friend such as you? Geralhd countered courteously.


    Yes, Saeter grunted in reply. You werent invited.


    Its too nice of an afternoon for anyone to be spending it alone. We just felt like stopping by and enjoying the pleasure of yourpany, the younger man exined with a smile.


    Plus, you make really good stew, and Im hungry, Vorscha added. we could smell it from across the camp.


    Too bad, Saeter told them. Leave.


    cknail wants us to stay, Geralhd told the old scout.


    The hobgoblin frowned. He really didnt want any such thing.


    I doubt that, Saeter replied gruffly.


    Do you? Vorscha asked as she grinned smugly and winked at Geralhd.


    cknail, we brought cheese scones! her lover announced.


    The hobgoblin ears perked up and oriented themselves towards Geralhd. The rest of his head quickly followed. His eyes instantly locked onto the bundle of cloth the younger man had just taken out from behind his back.


    They can-ss stay! cknail dered quickly.


    Saeter glowered at both visitors, highlighting the lines of his weathered face. He looked like he was trying to think of some way to get rid of them.


    Ugh, fine, he sighed in defeat a few secondster.


    Yeah, scones! cknail giggled happily.


    This meal was going to be so great, maybe even the best ever! Rabbit stew with cheese scones! He couldnt wait.


    Vorscha smiled and Geralhd ced the rolled up cloth on a rock next to the fire. The pair grinned at each other as they settled down on the other side of the campfire from cknail and his master.


    Saeters fire pit was a quiterge, even if it was just a shallow hole in the ground surrounded by a ring of round stones. Two nearby t rocks could be used as chairs, and there was also a nearby collection of cut up logs for people to sit on.


    Wait, why did his master have so many seats around his campfire if he didnt want visitors? cknail couldnt figure it out. Was the old scout going to use them for something?


    Bah, I suppose I cooked enough food to share, Saeter grunted as he started stirring the stew again. It goes bad quickly, anyway.


    His masters speech, and the intense stare cknail was directing towards the yet unwrapped scones, distracted the hobgoblin enough that the voice from behind him was a surprise.


    Whats going on here? a newly arrived woman asked.


    No! cknail hissed in rm as he realized who it was and spun around.


    It was Khita! She had probablye to steal some of his delicious scones and stew. Well, he wasnt going to let her! She was useless.


    There you are, Vorscha announced as Khita walked closer. Take a seat.


    I didnt say she could-sse, cknail whined.


    Shes with us, Vorscha replied as she gave the hobgoblin a t stare.


    cknail froze under her gaze. Good natured or not, there was a steely edge to her gaze. She clearly wasnt going to ept anyints from him. Why was the big woman always sticking up for Khita? She was useless.


    Whats one more mouth to feed? She may as well join us, Saeter remarked sarcastically as he sat down on his favourite stump.


    Thanks, your stew usually tastes nice, the young woman remarked.


    Saeter frowned at Khita and pursed his lips. Clearly, he was insulted.


    Nice... he huffed as he shook his head. Ive been perfecting this recipe since before you were a fire in your fathers loins.


    Its the nectar of the gods itself, if thats what you want to hear, Vorscha told the old scout as she rolled her eyes.


    Khita took a seat next to cknail. The hobgoblin groaned and shuffled away. The cheese scones had better be bloody delicious!


    Hey, cknail! How did yourst mission go? Khita asked cknail. Herad and Vorscha never let me go on any important missions. Im either stuck here in camp or Vorscha is watching my every movement.


    It was alright. I snuck around, met a new friend, and killed a bunch of people, cknail remarked offhand as he waited for stew.


    He didnt mention the food hed looted from the wagon. He wouldnt put it past Khita to steal it.


    Sharp! Thats what Im talking about, the young woman eximed happily. I want to go on a mission like that!


    I dont think killing people is a good measure of sess, Geralhd interjected unhappily.


    It is if youre a hobgoblin, Saeter told the other man.


    Is the food ready? The smell is making me hungry, Khita suddenly asked.


    Close enough, Saeter replied as he got up.


    The old scout reached into a sack and pulled out a bunch of wooden bowls. One by one he filled them with stew from the pot and passed them out.


    While he was doing that, Gehd finally unwrapped the cloth bundle he had been holding to reveal the scones within. It only took a few seconds for him to toss them around. cknail grinned as he caught his and took a bite. They were bloody delicious, so cheesy and yet so smooth and rich.


    There was silence as everyone ate, if you didnt count the hobgoblins smacking. cknail thought that this was fine, but Geralhd apparently found it awkward. The young man looked thoughtfully around at everyone else seated by the fire.


    Up in the sky, the sun was starting to set behind the western clouds. The clouds glowed a deep red as darkness started to set in. All around, the shadows grew thicker as flickering firelight filled the camp.


    So Saeter, what do you think of our current situation? From what I hear, Werrick ising and hes bringing more than few men, the young man asked to break the silence.


    I think there is going to be a fight, Saeter replied stonily.


    Ugh, I dont want to discuss fighting right now, Vorscha interjected sourly. Here we are enjoying a great meal among friends! Why bring up violence?


    Imagine what will happen if she wins, though, Gerald pointed out. Shell basically hold dominion over all the North! All its wealth will be at her fingertips and part of that will be ours!


    Thats a good point, Vorscha remarked as she smiled. Retiring from the bandit life with a chest full of gold sounds great to me. I could really use a nice mansion full of servants.


    That does sound nice, Geralhd mused.


    It would have to be in Daggerpoint, or somewhere else beyond the Kings writ, but it would still be much nicer than my current cabin. Especially if you were there with me, Vorscha told her lover.


    He looked uneasy and smiled sadly before responding.


    That does sound wonderful. Unfortunately, as you know, I need to be heading home as soon as possible. My parents and sister need me back down South, Gehd replied.


    Youre still a wanted man, Vorscha pointed out.


    The warrant for my arrest will eventually expire, especially if I get my hands on enough coin to grease the right hands. Bribes are the only reason I was ever charged in the first ce. All I did was win a fair duel! the young manined.


    And kill a man, Vorscha added dryly.


    There are duels all the time where Ie from, back in Eloria proper. Some of them are even to the death, yet rarely is anyone arrested and sentenced to life imprisonment, Geralhd eximed angrily.


    Ha, youre allzy or cowards. I dont n on retiring ever! Im going to work my way up to be Herads most trusted lieutenant and maybe even eventually be her sessor! Khita bragged.


    There was a lot of eye rolling and skeptical looks from everyone else present. cknail tried to picture Khita as the leader of anything and failed. How could anyone ever be stupid enough to ept her as their chieftain?


    I dont think Herad trusts anyone, especially not her lieutenants, Saeter grumbled to himself as he got up and refilled his bowl.


    I dont think thats very likely. Everyone retires eventually, Vorscha told Khita. You really should be trying to figure out how to escape the criminal life.


    It will be an adventure! Khita replied defensively. Besides, I wont be alone. cknail wont be retiring to some stuffy mansion. Hes a hobgoblin and they know how to have fun!


    cknail looked up from where he was eating thest of his scone. Bits of crumps fell off his chin.


    Ill go where Master Saeter goes, he replied simply.


    This caused everyone to look Saeters way. The old scout just frowned and sat back down.


    Bah, having dreams like yours is just a good way to be disappointed. Only fools believe in happy endings. Youre better off just epting things the way they are, he told the others.


    cknail put his empty bowl down and gave his master a questioning look. He seemed to remember Saeter saying something else a while ago.


    I thought your wanted-ss to make Herad Queen of the North and kick the southern king person in the balls. Didnt you say that? I think-ss you did... cknail mused aloud as he tried to remember.


    Gehd suddenly snorted in amusement and a huge grin appeared on Vorschas face. For some reason, Saeters face grew noticeably redder. The old scout winced and looked off to the side.


    I never said anything like that! Stop lying, cknail. Youre imagining things, you stupid hobgoblin, he quickly argued.


    Ambitious, but I like it, Vorscha remarked.


    Ha, so much for not having any dreams! Geralhdughed. I should have known you had a reason for sticking around here.


    I wouldnt mind kicking a king or two in the nuts, Khita mused as she smirked. Those fancy bastards have never done anything for me.


    That was just something I said once as a joke, Saeter protested.


    Of course it was. Dont worry, Saeter. We all know you didnt mean it, Vorscha joked.


    As Saeter glowered, cknail looked around at everyones smirks. He didnt get it. What was so funny?


    It quickly grew dark as the bandits talked andughed. Soon, the only light was from their campfire or that of other nearby groups. By the time Saeters guests left, almost everyone else in the camp had turned in for the night.


    With happy yawn, cknail went to bed. An owl hooted off in the trees as he walked over to his tent and crawled inside. Feelingfortable, cknail curled up and fell asleep.


    However, his rest was disturbed by unpleasant dreams, and cknail tossed and turned in his sleep.


    A green maze of twisted trees surrounded him, and there was only a single path through it. Skulls and swords littered the ground as he walked. Coins slipped from his fingers no matter how hard he tried to hold them and eventually he was all alone in the darkness. The hobgoblin looked up and saw a white light shinning down the forest path in front of him. He reached out towards it...

 Rolling the Dice 6

    Rolling the Dice 6


    cknail smiled as his knife opened the helpless mans throat. Blood poured out of the raw jagged wound and spilled down his chest. The mans body jerked and twitched but the hobgoblin held it still. A few secondster, he went limp and cknail let the body fall.


    With an annoyed sigh, the hobgoblin bent over and began to roll the corpse over into a nearby clump of bushes, where it would be hidden. When that was done, he scuffed the dirt with his boot to conceal the blood trail. Cleaning up after himself was always such a pain.


    This was the second sentry hed taken out today, and it was probably far from thest. There were undoubtedly a few more around the perimeter of the enemy camp.


    A lot of humans seemed to think that if they simply had lots of guards everywhere it would make up for the fact that they were all ipetent. It didnt work that way.


    The forest around cknail was full of thick green vegetation, and small hillsy scattered in every direction. This made spotting people difficult and hiding easy. To keep one step ahead of his prey the hobgoblin needed a better view.


    Quickly, cknail pulled his boots and socks off. He took a second to wiggle his toes and flex his fingers before sinking his ws into the bark of a tall tree beside him. Then, he began to climb up into the higher branches to find a vantage point.


    The tree swayed ever so slightly in the wind once he got higher but that didnt bother him. Up there among the leaves, cknail made himselffortable and looked around. His flexible light body gave him excellent bnce.


    Herad, cknails great and deadly chieftain, had ordered the hobgoblin to head out and scout around the base Werricks men had set up. The other bandit chieftains encroachment on her territory would be met with blood and fire.


    cknail had spent two days skulking around the forest by himself to get all the information his mistress had wanted. Hed been told to avoid being seen at all costs, and he hadnt even been allowed to kill anyone!


    This was the North! Who would notice one or two missing humans? There were hundreds of ways they could have gotten themselves killed or vanished. Most humans were so dumb cknail was constantly surprised they lived long enough to breed.


    Not his humans, though. They were remarkably intelligent, almost hobgoblin-like, really. Of course, cknail had only ever met one other hobgoblin, and hed stabbed him to death several minutes after their first meeting. Still, that meant half the hobgoblins hed ever encountered had been incredibly smart and handsome. He could not say the same thing about humans.


    Well, that was the past. He certainly had permission to kill now. The time for scouting was over. Herads attack was underway.


    cknail bnced on a long branch as he studied the terrain below him. From his high perch, he could see the steep hill that concealed the enemy camp. It looked like the way there was clear. However, a pair of Werricks men stood off some distance to his left.


    Hmm, difficult, cknail mused.


    It was practically impossible for someone to take down two sentries by himself without making any noise, and that meant it was sort of difficult even for cknail. The hobgoblin preferred easier targets, though. Why work hard?


    With this in mind, cknail swung below the branch he was sitting on and climbed back down the tree. Once on the ground, he brought his fingers up to his lips and whistled. The sharp cry of a bird echoed out through the forest as he blew.


    A few momentster, an answering bird call rang out from the wild greenery around him. cknail smiled as Saeter slipped out of the forest and walked over.


    The old scout was dressed in brown leathers with a dirty green cloak. He held a bow in his hands and there was a full quiver on his back.


    Were all clear here? Saeter asked.


    Yes-ss, there are no enemies around-ss until we get closer to their camp, cknail replied eagerly.


    Good, then lets go together in case we run into arger group, his master suggested.


    cknail opened his mouth to agree, but he was interrupted by the sound of another bird whistle. His mouth snapped shut in surprise. That was their signal!


    What? Its not the right season for real grey warblers to make that cry... Saeter remarked. ...and no one else could possibly know we were using it.


    I dont know, cknail replied nervously. Maybe-ss its an ambush.


    Together, the pair peered off into the forest in the direction the sound hade from. Slowly, Saeter drew an arrow and strung it on his bow. Nothing moved in front of them.


    Instead, there was fluttering noise behind them. cknail flinched in surprise and jumped around. His long knife slid out of its sheath as he pulled it free in one smooth motion. Beside him, Sater moved as well.


    The hobgoblins heart pounded as he scanned the forest for the cause of the noise. There was nothing there, or at least he didnt see anything. Something had made the noise, though.


    Suddenly, movement made cknail look up at the side of a tree trunk. Perched there was a harpy. Its human-like face looked down at cknail and Saeter with amusement. It shed them a toothy smile and then a familiar mocking bird cry issued forth from it lips.


    Shoot it, cknail hissed in rm.


    Harpies were dangerous. Therge bird-like creatures had long talons on their feet and the tip of their wings. They were also very cunning.


    Saeter raised his bow to take the shot. Before he could do anything though, there was another flutter from the direction they had just turned away from.


    Shoot it, someone or something said.


    cknails head whipped around and he raised his dagger defensively. A second harpy was standing on a tree branch not too far away.


    Theres another harpy behind us, isnt there? Saeter asked tly.


    The old scout hadnt turned around. He had kept his arrow aimed straight at the first harpy.


    Yes, but two harpies arent much of threat-ss. Ill take one and you can-ss take the other, cknail replied as he took a step toward the second creature.


    Before he could get near it though, the beast let out a muted screech and pped its wings. cknail froze. They were still near the enemy camp. Raising amotion would draw attention, and that would be bad.


    Dont let it make so much noise! Sater hissed.


    Fine, you shoot both of them, cknail replied angrily.


    What did his master expect him to do? The hideous creature could fly!


    I cant get both of them at the same time, Saeter grunted in annoyance.


    So much noise! squawked the first harpy merrily.


    You shut the hells up, Saeter told it.


    Ya, no one asked you, cknail added angrily.


    Both, Saeter and cknail stood there silently for a few seconds as they contemted their next step. The hobgoblin scratched his nose as he warily eyed the harpies. They didnt appear to be doing anything...


    What should we do? cknail asked his master.


    I dont know. The fucking things are probably just messing with us. I dont think theyll attack us, Saeter replied cautiously.


    The first harpy, who still had Saeters arrow pointed at it, slowly hopped down from the tree. Itnded on the ground and then eyed the hobgoblin and his master. cknail thought it looked smug.


    I want to kick it in-ss the face, the hobgoblin muttered to himself.


    The harpy ignored him and began to crawl across the ground using the ws on its wings as another set of legs. Its motions were smooth and purposeful as it headed towards a familiar set of bushes.


    Oh, cknail remarked in surprise as he watched.


    The harpy slipped into the bushes and there was a tearing sound as it ripped into the corpse within them. Saeters eyes widened as he realized what the beast was doing. He spun and pointed his arrow towards the second harpy, which was still sitting in the tree.


    In the face! the beastughed merrily as it licked its wing feathers.


    It didnt seem concerned about the bow and arrow at all. Instead, it just continued cleaning itself while studying them out of the corner of its eye.


    The bloody fuckers! Saeter growled quietly as he realized what was happening.


    cknails eyes narrowed as he came to the same understanding as his master. The creatures were extorting them!


    The harpies wanted the human corpses cknail had left in his wake, and if he tried to stop them they would create enough noise to raise the enemies rm!


    The hobgoblin grimaced and flexed his wed fingers. Human corpses were worthless to him but he still didnt like the idea of being outsmarted and bullied by a bunch of bird brains!


    Lets kill them! he hissed furiously to his master.


    No, stop cknail, Saetermanded him coldly. Leave them be. Theyre no threat to us and we have a job to do.


    The hobgoblin stared at the grey feathered creature that was up in the tree. It seemed to havepletely dismissed them as threats and was busy cleaning itself.


    Ugh, fine. Lets get out of here, cknail replied broodingly.


    Saeter nodded and the pair cautiously made their way away from the feasting harpies. The old scout kept his bow nocked but he let the string go loose.


    Job to do! a shrill voice whispered mockingly from behind him as he walked away.


    cknail clenched his fist but kept on walking. Hed killed harpies before and he would do it again. Next time, he was going to enjoy every moment of it, though.


    Soon, they were away from the flying pests. cknail and his master scanned the forest for further threats. While the harpies hadnt made too much noise they still had made some. It was possible they might have alerted someone. The pair of sentries he had seen from up above in the tree might not be the only ones around.


    Were good, Saeter remarked quietly a few momentster as he motioned cknail forward.


    The hobgoblin ground his teeth together as he stalked forward through the forest. The base Werricks men had builty before him and he fully intended to take his frustration out on its upants. Oh yes, there was going to be blood! He might even booby trap the corpses as a surprise for greedy harpies.


    cknail stepped up to an old thick tree that sat atop a hill. From there its branches hid him and he could look down on the enemy camp. Saeter joined him a secondter.


    The base was nestled in arge clearing. The tall dark trees of the forest surrounded it on all sides. The ground below was slightly sloped towards a small creak that ran through the middle of the clearing before disappearing into the forest.


    The camp itself was mostly a massive collection of blue tents. They filled the center of the de. Off to one sidey a hitch post were dozens of horses were tied up, and men could be seen walking everywhere.


    Hmm, its weird how they have all those tents. They look new. Did Werrick buy them all just for this attack? Saeter mused.


    Does it matter? Lets just find-ss the sentries and kill them, cknail hissed.


    It wasnt the hobgoblins job to worry about such things. Herad could deal with itter. He just wanted to work out his bad mood.


    Saeter turned and gave cknail a critical look.


    Keep your emotions under control or youll fuck this up and we will be the ones getting killed, the old scout told him.


    Fine, sorry, cknail grunted sourly in reply.


    The hobgoblin knew he was letting his rage slip out of control. Having the harpies steal his trophies was simply infuriating. It didnt matter that he hadnt actually wanted a bunch of human bodies. They were still his!


    There is a sentry over by that log, Saeter remarked as he pointed down below.


    Ill go take him out so we can slip closer, cknail whispered in reply.


    The hobgoblin mentally worked through a few basic sword forms to calm himself down, as he turned towards his destination. Discipline had been beaten into him by his master during his sword training.


    Suddenly, there was an outcry from below which caused the hobgoblin to flinch.


    Intruders! To arms! Were under attack! someone in the camp yelled.


    A chorus of answering shouts soon joined it. As cknail watched in dismay, the enemy camp came alive and dozens of men emerged from tents. The sentry below was quickly reinforced by a fully armed squad of bandits, and together they all disappeared into the forest. Uh oh, this wasnt good.


    We need to leave. Lets get to the fallback route, Saeter announced as he spun around.


    What? No! They couldnt have seen us! cknail whined in exasperation.


    He wanted to hunt! This wasnt fair. What had just happened?


    Less moaning, more running, Saeter replied as he started moving.


    cknail growled in frustration before following his master back into the forest. As the pair ran through the woods, cknail managed to get his emotions under control.


    Whats going-ss on? How do they know we are here? cknail asked his master.


    They probably dont, we arent the only ones here, remember, Saeter huffed back as he ran.


    Oh, right. cknail had actually forgotten that. Herad had sent several teams of scouts. cknail had just sort of assumed they would all hang back while he and Saeter did all the real work.


    Shouting could be heard behind them as cknail and his master ran through the woods back to their rendezvous point. The hobgoblins long pointy ears also detected some closer voices.


    This is all your fault! a female voice whispered angrily off to cknails left.


    Me? How could it be mine? Im the scout here, not you! a deeper male voice answered.


    cknail sighed when he recognized the voices. He now knew why the enemy had been put on alert: ipetent people.


    Saeter apparently heard the sound of nearby people trudging through the forest but not their voices because he turned to the hobgoblin and questioned him.


    Who is it? Enemies? the old scout asked.


    cknail grimaced in distaste before replying. He wanted to say yes.


    No, theyre... allies, the hobgoblin replied hesitantly.


    Saeter nodded in acknowledgement and then dodged left. cknail jumped over a fallen tree and followed him, as they both veered off towards the neers. A few secondster, the pair slipped out of the greenery and met up theirrades.


    Running out in front was the scout Varhs. His pet goblin Scamp was scrambling alongside him, and trailing them both was the young redhead Khita. Varhs looked shocked for a second as Saeter and cknail appeared, but he quickly calmed down when he recognized them.


    Ah, Saeter! Dont surprise me like that, the younger scout eximed as he kept moving.


    Oh, the boss is here, Scampmented excitedly. The little goblin had obviously heard theming.


    cknail squinted at the three running figures before him. He was pretty sure he knew who to me for this mess and who had alerted the enemy. Varhs was a good ranger and at home in the forest. Scamp was annoying but he could at least stay hidden, especially if there was work to do. That left Khita, the most useless one.


    Why are you here? Youre not a scout, cknail asked her.


    I convinced Varhs to let mee, Khita replied. Staying around camp was boring.


    The hobgoblin threw Varhs a questioning look. He was disappointed in him. Varhs seemed like a half decent ranger but he kept surrounding himself with idiots.


    She said she could keep up, Varhs muttered in reply.


    Saeter gave the other scout a cold re.


    Next time dont let a pretty face sway you, he told him. For now though, just keep running and follow me. It sounds like there are people right on your tail.


    Sure enough, cknail could hear the sounds of pursuit. Several people were yelling and crashing through the underbrush behind them. The hobgoblin made sure he was running near his master at the front, where it would be safest.


    Where are we going? Khita asked.


    The rendezvous point. Just slow down for a second, Saeter replied as he gulped down air.


    The old scout was beginning to look worn out. His pace had slowed and he was wheezing for breath. cknail frowned in concern for his master. They hadnt been running all that fast...


    Is that a good idea with this many people chasing us? Varhs asked as he looked back over his shoulder.


    Dont worry, I have a n. A good ranger always has an escape route prepared, Saeter exined. Just make sure you follow my steps exactly.


    Up ahead, the forest opened up to reveal a sunny clearing. The old scout headed straight towards it.


    Oh, this n... cknail remarked ufortably.


    He remembered this n, it was terrible. He really hoped his master knew what he was doing...


    Did you ce traps here or something? Khita asked as she ran up beside cknail.


    The young woman was studying the long grass thaty ahead of them suspiciously. Theyd reach it and be out of the forest within a few seconds.


    Or something-ss, the hobgoblin hissed in reply.


    He was too busy running to answer her more clearly and didnt really care anyway. Although, if she wandered off the trail she would ruin everything... even more than she already had.


    Stay close behind me and youll be fine, cknail added reluctantly.


    Alright, thanks, the young woman replied.


    The mismatched group charged out of the forest. cknail pushed a leafy branch away from his face and winced as the light from the sun hit him.


    Saeter was ahead of him and already stomping through the grass. cknail frowned and looked nervously around as he followed his master. Behind him came Khita. Much to the hobgoblins annoyance, she seemed to be making a game of only stepping in his footprints.


    Holding up the rear was Varhs and Scamp. The other scout didnt question Saeters n, but he had drawn his bow and was watching carefully for pursuers. Scamp was scampering along beside his master. The goblin looked more than a little spooked and hesitant to enter the clearing.


    Danger everywhere! he moaned as looked over his shoulder.


    Together, the group worked their way into the clearing. They were surrounded by long green grass and thick nts. Clumps of taller bushes and small trees spotted the de, but Saeter led them away from those.


    They had barely made it halfway through the clearing when their enemy caught up. There was shouting as over two dozen men burst out of the forest and stepped into the grass. The leader instantly spotted cknails group.


    There they are. The grass is slowing them down. Theres no way they can escape! he yelled as he pointed towards them.


    Unfortunately, cknail had to agree. The hobgoblin felt his stomach twist nervously. Saeter wasnt moving fast enough, and cutting a path through the clearing was slowing them down. Theywouldn''t be able toget away without a fight.

 Rolling The Dice 7

    Rolling The Dice 7


    Enemy troops spilled out of the bushes at the edge of the forest and into the clearing. Like Herads own men, they wore a rough collection of leather armor. Hatred filled eyes red towards Saeters party from unshaven faces framed by long messy hair.


    Those few that didnt already have weapons in hand drew them. Swords hissed free from sheaths and one of them pulled a war axe from off his back.


    Dont let the bloody vermin get away! Charge! their leader ordered his minions.


    Varhs immediately raised his bow to pick the man off, but Saeter put a hand on his shoulder and stopped him.


    Hold your fire until they get closer, Saeter ordered the other scout. I dont want them to scatter just yet.


    Varhs did as he was told but he gave Saeter a doubtful look. The front ranks of the enemy contained over a dozen men and were closing in on them. They only had a few minutes until Werricks men caught up.


    There were only four people in Saeters group, four and a half if you included Scamp. If you didnt count Khita as a full person then you only had like three and a half, or something... Counting wasnt cknails strongest skill.


    Scamp was sticking close to his masters heels and he looked terrified. His normallyrge eyes were huge as he gazed around nervously. He looked like he was going to run at the slightest provocation.


    Fine, but I hope your n is a good one, Varhs grunted at Saeter.


    So do I, the grey haired scout replied sourly.


    This didnt make anyone feel better. Khita just looked puzzled, but cknail groaned and Varhs looked like someone had just pped him across the face.


    Running away would be a lot safer than this, the hobgoblin muttered to himself.


    Sure, not all of them would survive if they ran, but he would. He was the fastest runner here by far. Also, killing everyone else would probably slow the enemy down enough for Saeter to escape.


    Hey, theyve got bows of their own, Khita suddenly interjected.


    Everyone looked over to see three of the enemies nocking arrows to their bows. They stood back as the rest of their group advanced. The enemy fighters were getting ufortably close. The tall man with the war axe was leading the way and there was a wicked grin on his face.


    Perfect. This way, Saeter told them as he turned away.


    Perfect? How is this situation anywhere near perfect? Varhs remarked in exasperation.


    Saeter didnt reply. He immediately led the others towards a clump of tall bushes off to one side. Before they reached it though, there was a whistling sound and three arrows tore through the air towards them.


    The first one was aimed too high but the others were more on target. One arrow zoomed a few feet wide of Varhs chest. The other flew through the group and passed right by Khitas face before mming into the ground with a thud.


    The young redhead wentpletely still when she realized what had just happened. Slowly, the color drained from her face. She lifted a hand up to wipe her cheek and drops of blood appeared on her fingers. She stared in shock.


    The arrow had grazed her and given her a shallow cut. If it had been an inch to the left she would have died.


    Dont stand there. Get down, you idiot! Varhs growled angrily as he pulled her toward the bushes.


    Within seconds, they were all behind cover. cknail peered at suspiciously at the nearby bushes and the tree in the middle of them. When he didnt detect anything off, his healthy paranoia then focused on all the men with swordsing to kill him.


    His concentration was broken though, when Khitas back pressed up against his side. What was she doing?


    He turned around and saw the young woman trembling slightly beside him. She still looked more than a little pale. As he watched, she shuffled even closer up against him, and idently jabbed him with her elbow. cknail winced as his ribs throbbed painfully. Ow, she was sure was bony.


    Saeter noticed the young redheads behaviour and the hobgoblins confusion.


    Shes in shock. Comfort her! he whispered.


    Why? cknail asked in surprise. That didnt sound like something hed do.


    Because I said so... his master hissed back. ...and she might slow us down.


    I dont mind doing it, Varhs interjected hopefully.


    The scout was crouched next to cknail on the opposite side from Khita. He had been keeping watch on the advancing bandits. Now he was staring at Khita with a thoughtful expresion, though. Saeter gave him a hard look that waspletely devoid of amusement.


    Keep watch! You wanting to show off is what got us into this mess! he hissed at the other scout.


    Varhs looked reluctant and glowered at cknail for a second, but he turned back around. cknail had no idea why the man was angry at him! What had he done? This was obviously Khitas fault!


    How do youfort people? the hobgoblin asked his master doubtfully.


    Tell her shes safe, Saeter answered.


    Would pping her work? he inquired. That would be quicker.


    No! his master replied with an angry re.


    cknail sighed in annoyance and turned to look at Khita again. She was huddled up next to him. Gently, he reached around to hold her shoulder.


    Youre safe-ss now, he told her as he patted her on the head reassuringly.


    A good pat on the head always made him feel better. In fact, he kind of wanted one now. Why had he suddenly be the person that gave out pats instead of receiving them? When had that happened?


    Thanks, but I just needed to catch my breath, cknail. Thats all, Khita replied with a forced smile. Ha, I guess Im lucky those arrows missed me.


    Her shivering had stopped but she still looked pale. Well, that was good enough. cknail quickly withdrew and took a step back from her.


    Your idea-ss of luck is different from mine, cknail replied dryly. If I was lucky-ss I wouldnt be here with you.


    For some reason, that totally truthful statement earned him a re from Saeter, but Khita just smiled. Her eyes looked a little wet.


    Ha, you remind me of my brother, cknail, she told him. You joke around just like him. You also look after people.


    Im better looking, though, the hobgoblinmented.


    He had obviously never met her dead brother but that didnt matter. Humans were pink after all, and that was a really stupid color to be. Green was just a much better color all around.


    The nearby bushes suddenly shook. Everyone flinched and ducked down low. A pair of arrows tore through the nts and mmed into the ground. Leaves were knocked loose and rained down over cknail and the others.


    After making sure he hadnt been shot, cknail turned and gave Scamp a kick. The startled goblin had tried to squeeze between him and Varhs, so he could use them as a meat shield.


    Why are we still sitting here? Varhs asked urgently. Theyre almost upon us.


    Saeter got up and looked towards the mass of angry bandits stomping towards their hiding spot. He scrutinized them carefully, as he pulled out his own bow and nocked an arrow to it.


    Alright, now! he ordered the other man. Aim right towards their center.


    Immediately, both scouts rose and loosed their arrows. The shots skimmed through the air above the grass and mmed into the approaching enemies. Two of the men fell with shafts sticking from their chests.


    cknail had pulled out his own sling as well, so that he could help. He spun it and his stone projectile wasunched into the air a secondter. It hit the arm of an advancing enemy and caused him to drop his sword.


    Bloody hells, you bastards! someone screamed hoarsely.


    Get to cover but keep advancing. Spread out and surround them! a tall blonde bandit who had been standing near the back yelled.


    The other enemy bandits followed his orders. The mass of armed and dangerous looking men split up into smaller groups. A few of them kepting forward but most headed off to the sides where they could find cover behind the nearby clumps of trees and bushes.


    Before Saeter and Varhs could get another shot off, the enemy archers opened fire. The two scouts had to duck back out of sight as the arrows flew over their heads.


    Now what? Theyre circling around, Varhs asked as he crouched down low.


    Now we wait for a reaction, Saeter replied.


    They are reacting! Theyre running everywhere, Varhs pointed out.


    Im not talking about the men, the older scout answered.


    Suddenly, a sharp crashing noise filled the clearing. Something snapped and there was a hollow thud. Khita flinched and beside her cknail jumped slightly. However, the hobgoblin quickly grinned as screams of surprise and pain filled the air. It was music to his ears.


    Saeters n had actually worked! They most likely werent all going to die!


    The enemies that had headed into the thickets to find cover were under attack, by the bushes themselves. The tallest of the nearby trees had reached out and shed at several nearby bandits.


    Familiar angry hissing reached cknails ears, as the trees transformed before his eyes into mimics. They looked angry too. The giant, spindly, insect like creatures tore into the bandits that had approached them with their many long wed limbs.


    Werricks men were too surprised to put up much of a fight. Even the bandits well away from the fighting had stopped moving and were gaping at their distressed allies. They didnt seem to know what to do.


    A few of the enemy soldiers started to retaliate, but their des either missed the mimics iling limps entirely or bounced off their hard carapace. One of the tree creatures grabbed a man and then tossed him violently aside. Leaves cascaded down as the mimic moved to smash aside a new target.


    Alright, now its time to run again, Saeter informed hispanions.


    None of them argued with him. Almost instantly, they were all on their feet and headed away from the fight. The end of the clearing and the way back into the forest loomed ahead of them.


    What in all the hells are those? Khita gasped in surprise. Did you bring those trees to life?


    The young woman kept as close as possible to cknail as she ran. Which annoyed the hobgoblin. Her eyes were wide with surprise and more than a little excitement.


    No, theyre just beasts, mimics, Saeter replied dryly as he ran.


    How did you know they were there? Khita asked next.


    Obviously, I scouted this path out in advance, the old scout told her.


    How did you know... the redhead started to ask before Saeter cut her off.


    Stop asking me such stupid questions and run, he growled at her.


    Behind them, the sounds of battle continued. Someone screamed and there was a thrashing sound, like branches colliding.


    cknail risked a look over his shoulder. None of the enemies were chasing Herads minions, and no arrows flew their way. The surviving thugs were backing away from the mimics, and the creatures were letting them.


    Saeters party soon reached the far edge of the clearing. A wall of bushes and younger trees blocked their way.


    Are you sure there are no mimics here? Varhs asked Saeter.


    There werent yesterday, the old scout grumbled in reply before pushing his way through.


    After a few tentative steps, everyone else quickly followed him back into the woods. The barrier of thin branches and greenery gave way to reveal a dark expanse of tree trunks under a shadowy canopy.


    Are we safe now? Khita asked when they were all out of sight of the battle behind them.


    No, theyre not bloody idiots, girl, Saeter told her scornfully. They will have sent men around to cut us off.


    Oh, the young woman remarked unhappily.


    But you have a n right? Varhs asked. Preferably something better than sitting in the middle of a bunch of mimics and hoping the enemy walks into them before we do!


    Yes, we keep running, Saeter told him.


    ckail hadnt stopped. The hobgoblin ducked under a low branch as he continued jogging through the forest. He wasnt stupid enough to think they were out of danger, even for a second.


    The others were right behind him. It wasnt like he was slowing his pace to keep an eye on them or anything. He just knew it would be dangerous to run ahead alone...


    Rows of trees surrounded them on all sides. The ground was almostpletely bare of anything but dark earth. Only a few short leafy nts and small ferns grew around the base of the thick smooth tree trunks.


    The group was silent as they ran between the trees, until Khita spoke up.


    Um, Theres a... she suddenly mumbled.


    Save your breath, Varhs huffed from beside her.


    But theres a dead guy right over there! Khita shot back angrily.


    Varhs eyes widened as he turned in the direction Khita was pointing. Both Saeter and cknails gaze quickly followed.


    A human bodyy strewn over a tangle of roots at the base of a tree. The cause of death was obvious. An arrow jutted out from his back and his brown scouts cloak was red with blood. It was undoubtedly one of Herads men, although without getting a better smell cknail wasnt sure exactly which.


    Shit, Saeter swore. Theyre ahead of us.


    Both scouts cloaks swished behind them as they turned to survey the surrounding woods. cknails gaze lingered on the fallen mans corpse for a moment. Maybe he should go through his pockets, in case there were any clues there?


    Iing! Get down! Varhs yelled a secondter.


    There was a shrill whipping sound. Instantly, cknail wasying face first on the ground with his arms shielding his face. He didnt have to be told twice. Stopping to think could get you killed!


    Arrows hissed through the air where he had been standing a second ago. There was a dull crack as one embedded itself into a nearby tree trunk, and cknail flinched in pain as the sound stabbed into his ears. Ah, that was too close!


    The hobgoblin didnt take any chances. From on the ground, he lurched sideways and started rolling towards the base of a tree where the roots would shield him.


    When he didnt hear any more arrows, cknail looked up and peeked out from behind his hands. Hispanions were on the ground around him, and none of them seemed to have feathered shafts sprouting out from ufortable ces. That was good.


    Even better, Scamp was nowhere to be seen. The cowardly goblin had been running behind Varhs but had disappeared after his master had yelled. With luck something had already eaten him. More likely though, he had run off somewhere.


    The next thing cknail noticed was the squad of enemy archers stomping through the woods towards him. Several of them were already reaching for new arrows.


    We need to get to the road! Saeter yelled as he jumped to his feet.


    The old scout immediately dashed forward and ced a wide tree trunk between himself and the archers. cknail scrambled up and ran after his master. Varhs and Khita sprinted for cover together, sort of. It looked like both of them were trying to outrun the other so that they could use each other as human shields.


    cknail easily kept ahead of both of them. Losers!


    Another arrow flew past and cut through the forest. It didnte close to hitting anyone, so everyone just kept running.


    A ledge came into view up ahead. Past a few trees, the ground suddenly fell away. Down below, the road could be soon on the other side of some bushes.


    Damnation, I meant to go around this, Saeter growled.


    The fall couldnt have been more than ten feet but it was still an ufortable jump. They didnt have a lot of choices, though.


    cknail put on a burst of speed and raced ahead. A secondter, he jumped off the edge and plummeted down. He felt his bones shake as hended in a crouch on the ground. The hobgoblin ignored the feeling. He quickly stood up and nced backwards at the ledge.


    Khita and Varhs were right behind him. The pair jumped over the ledge. They seemed to hang in the air for moment before plummeting back down to earth. Both of themnded feet first and then rolled straight past the hobgoblin. However, Saeter hesitated a moment before jumping.


    Sensing a problem, cknail gritted his teeth and reached down inside himself to burn any Elixir left in his system. There wasnt a lot but it would have to do.


    Jump and Ill catch you, he told his master.


    What? You dont need to do that... Saeter grumbled.


    cknail gave his master an annoyed re, but before he could say anything shouting broke out on top of the ledge. It sounded like the enemy was very close. Saeter threw a look over his shoulder and then immediately jumped.


    The hobgoblin froze for a split second in surprise before reacting. He then spun to the side and reached out to scoop up his masters legs. As Saeters weight descended cknail cushioned it.


    Then he lost his bnce. The impact knocked him backwards, and Saeternded on top of him.


    Ack, toad piss, cknail coughed painfully as hey t on his back.


    His master hadnded right on the hobgoblins chest. The impact had squeezed his ribs and knocked the air out of him. His lungs burned painfully when he tried to draw in a breath.


    Saeter got up, brushed himself off, and immediately started running towards the road again. It was only a few dozen feet away.


    Hurry up, cknail! he shouted. Dont justy there like a log!


    The hobgoblin coughed again and pulled himself to his feet. He then quickly began following the others. As he picked up speed, he red hostilely at his masters back.


    Some thanks-ss would nice! he hissed to himself.


    When they got back to camp cknail was going to make sure Saeter paid him back! If he didnt then the hobgoblin was sure Vorscha and Geralhd would find the story amusing. Yes, he was definitely going to get something tasty or shiny...


    Khita and Varhs were already pushing through the bushes. Saeter was right behind them. cknail brought his hand up to shield his face as he stepped through the brush and out of the forest again.


    Your n sucks, Khita remarked as she looked around the empty road.


    What now? Varhs asked. Do we make a break for the other side?


    Saeter scowled as he studied the surroundings. The wide dirt road was empty. It cut through the forest but there was nothing to see in either direction.


    The bushes a bit down the road shook as several enemies stepped out. They raised their weapons.


    Shit, were right back where we started, Varhs cursed.

 Rolling The Dice 8

    Rolling The Dice 8


    More enemies stepped out of the bushes, until cknail counted ten of them. The hostile bandits marched up onto the road and eyed Saeters group. All of them were armed with swords and looked dangerous, like hardened killers.


    Capture some of them alive! their leader ordered the rest. We need to interrogate them.


    cknail weighed the odds. He had some Elixir on him but he wasnt sure he could fight this many people and protect Saeter at the same time. The old scout looked worn out and Khita wouldnt be any help. That left most of the work up to him and Varhs.


    Unfortunately, he couldnt sneak his master away from the others so it wasnt like he had a choice. The hobgoblin drew his de and reached into his pocket to grasp his vial of Elixir. Varhs and Khita both took out their own short swords.


    Are we fighting? Khita asked Saeter.


    The old scout didnt reply. He was frowning and seemed to be staring straight ahead at the enemy, but cknail could tell he was scanning their surroundings out of the corners of his eyes. He was looking for something.


    That one looks like a girl! one of therger enemies said as he grinned at Khita. Im taking her.


    Just make sure they dont get away, the leader responded.


    The big brute raised his sword and stepped forward, just as an arrow took him in the chest. Blood sprayed from his mouth as he coughed and copsed. A hail of arrows quickly followed the first. They mmed into the enemy bandits until most of them had fallen.


    Fucking hells, an ambush! the leader cursed as he backed up and raised his sword defensively.


    A new group of human bandits rose from where they had been hiding in the ditch along the road, but these were Herads men. There was the sound of shaking leaves as more of them stepped out of the forest behind the ditch, including Red Dog. The bandit lieutenant scanned the remaining enemies.


    Swordsmen forward, take them down! he bellowed confidently.


    At hismand, the men from the ditch drew their des and jumped onto the road. They charged forward and engaged the now vastly outnumbered and injured enemies.


    Thank the gods! Varhs eximed as several of Herads men ran past him.


    cknail let his sword drop. It didnt seem like his help would be necessary.


    We didnt really need their help. I could have taken the big guy... Khita remarked assertively. ...and cknail could have taken the rest.


    The hobgoblin gave her a skeptical look. How could she possibly believe that? cknail had seen Khita fight. She wasnt that good at it! Also, why did he have to do most of the work?


    There was the sound of des shing as Red Dog s men fought. Only a few of Werricks men were left standing and they were quickly surrounded. Secondster, they were all cut down. No prisoners were taken.


    Is that all of them or are there more hiding in the trees? Red Dog asked as he walked over to Saeter.


    Thats all the ones that were chasing us, the old scout answered him. I was beginning to think you had gotten lost and missed the rendezvous point.


    I just had to wait until they were all out in the open, Red Dog replied with an indifferent shrug. It wouldnt have been a very good ambush if I didnt get them all.


    But the ambush would have worked fine if we all died? What if they had used bows? Varhs grumbled to himself.


    Did you get your job done? Red Dog asked Saeter as he ignored Varhs.


    I certainly did my part, and cknail did his, the old scout replied. We took out quite a few sentries before being discovered and led several more right to you. Im not sure about Varhs, though. He let himself get distracted.


    I can see that, Red Dog said as he eyed Khita disdainfully.


    Varhs coughed and looked away. There was slight embarrassed flush to his cheeks.


    Hey, I did more than you! Khita interjected as she red angrily at Red Dog. I was out there fighting and risking my life. All you did was stand here and order other people to fight for you.


    Thats the burden ofmand, the bandit lieutenant replied.


    Burden my ass; youre justzy, Khita told him.


    Saeter reached over and swatted the side of her head. Khita stepped back and glowered at him.


    Dont argue with themander in the field, he told the young woman. There will be plenty of timeter to tell Vorscha all about how he put you in danger.


    Red Dog frowned at the old scouts words. He looked slightly nervous for a second but then he just scowled in annoyance. It was quick, but Saeter grinned smugly for second in response.


    Since you feel so hard down by, let me escort you the rest of the way then, Red Dog said as he motioned towards one of his men.


    You there, make sure the small redhead stays safe. She might trip in a pothole and hurt herself. Also, you should watch out for squirrels, he told the man.


    The man in question froze and stared in confusion as Red Dog and Khita red furiously at each other. He didnt know how seriously he should take the order. Either option could backfire on him.


    So, were moving on then? Saeter asked to break the tension.


    Since you seem to have drawn the enemy sentries out of position so well, we should go join up with Herad. The main attack has probably already begun, Red Dog replied.


    What about the rest of the scouts sent out with us? Saeter pointed out.


    Most of them have already returned. Ill leave a few men here in case more show up, but Im not going to risk sending men into the forest after them, Red Dog exined.


    As soon as he was done talking, Red Dog led the group down the road towards the enemies camp. A wedge of sword wielding bandits went first. Behind them came the archers, and in the middle were cknail and hispanions.


    They arrived at their destination within a few minutes. The once hidden path that led from the road to the enemies camp was now inly obvious. Corpses littered the ground and boot prints were everywhere. The bushes on either side of the side trail had been hacked down to create a gaping hole that led into the dark forest beyond.


    Im not a scout, but I think we should go that way, Khita announced as she pointed towards the mess.


    This earned her more than a few res. However, no one took a step towards the looming entrance. The group came to a stop and took a moment to study the scene before them.


    cknail could hear the sounds of battle down the path, although the forest canopy muted the noise. He briefly scanned the nearby bodies. Most seemed to be enemies but he did recognize one of the fallen men. There was definitely a fight going on here. He hoped his side was winning.


    I dont suppose youd mind taking a look around? Red Dog asked Saeter and Varhs. That brush there would be an excellent spot for an ambush.


    I think weve done enough of that today, dont you? Saeter replied coldly.


    The bandit lieutenant shrugged and motioned his men forward. The lead bandits carefully made their way down the path. When they werent ambushed, attacked by wild animals, or maimed by traps everyone else was quick to follow.


    And were back into the woods, Varhsmented darkly as he stepped into the shadows. I hope Scamp catches up with us soon.


    The path itself was narrow but moving through the forest was easy. The ground was sparse and mostly bare from theck of light. The only real obstacles were the trees and they were easy enough to go around.


    cknail followed the other members of his tribe up the shallow hill that rose in front of them. Shouting and screams could be heard on the other side of it, so that was probably where Herad was. She enjoyed that sort of thing.


    When they reached the top of the hill, Red Dog and cknail stopped and looked down. A lot had changed since the hobgoblin had seen the enemys camp. It was in shambles. The mass of blue tents were still there but many of them had been ttened. Several were on fire.


    Herad was leading a push through the very center of the camp. Close to a hundred of her men fought beside as she cut her way in deeper. The enemies resistance was scattered and failing. Her sword shed through the air and bandit after bandit fell before her.


    Damned fools, theyre getting crushed, Red Dog remarked. They let their sentries get pulled out of position and then their rear was assaulted.


    This fight was already over once Herad got past the chokepoint back behind us, Saeter added. They should have defended it better.


    Doesnt seem like there is much left for us to do, Varhs observed without a trace of disappointment.


    Red Dog nodded in agreement. Across the valley, an enemy captain appeared to be trying to rally the defenders. He waved his sword above his head as he shouted orders.


    Well stay here and pick off any stragglers that try and make it back to the road, Red Dog told everyone.


    The enemy captain didnt manage to assemble much of a force before Herad reached him. There was brief struggle as he was overwhelmed by Herad and her minions. With him dead there was no organized resistance left.


    The remaining enemies lost all will to fight. They fled. Herad screamed something that sounded both bloodthirsty and triumphant as her organized formation split up to pursue them. Bandits streamed throughout the camp in every direction and ughtered each other. From so far away it was hard to tell who was who, especially since most humans looked the same.


    What about our share of the loot? one of Red Dogs men asked suspiciously. How are we supposed to get it from up here?


    Youll get it, dont worry. I certainly n on getting my cut, Red Dog answered as he continued to stare down at the carnage below.


    cknail frowned in disappointment. He wanted to be down there with Herad. It looked like everyone there was having fun and that was where the best loot was. He didnt trust most the humans in his tribe. They would squirrel away all the good stuff and keep it for themselves!


    Ha, if all of Werricks men are this soft then winning this war is going to be easier than pinching a fat mans purse! Khita chuckled.


    Do you remember-ss being chased through the woods? cknail asked her in dismay. I do! It was just a few minutes ago!


    That wasnt so bad, the young woman replied calmly. They fell into our trap.


    From off to one side, Varhs took a step closer to Khita and smiled at her.


    Yep, I had the situationpletely under control. Rabble like the men chasing us were no match for me, he bragged confidently.


    The fucks? cknail eximed in disbelief.


    They had almost died several times! What were these morons saying? Khita was an idiot, and he had no idea what was wrong with Varhs! The scout didnt usually act this stupid. Maybe Khita was infectious...


    As cknail watched, a small group of Werricks men broke away from the camp and headed his way. They had been hiding in some of the tents off to one side.


    It looks like were going to havepany, Varhs observed as he noticed them.


    Red Dog gave the approaching men a disgusted look. He didnt seem too concerned. There were less than a dozen of them and several of them didnt even appear to be armed.


    Idiots. Even if they made it to the road unmolested, how do they think they are going to survive in the woods without any gear? There isnt any shelter nearby, Saeter remarked condescendingly.


    Theyre cowards, what do you expect? Red Dog answered him.


    cknail just smiled and started humming to himself. These humans seemed to be acting pretty normally to him. Fear did strange things to mens heads. It made them easy targets.


    Sharp! the hobgoblin purred happily as he watched the fleeing enemies draw closer.


    He had been worried for a second, but it looked like the loot wasing to him! How lucky.


    cknails group was waiting for the cowards when they crested the hill. After a very brief struggle, Red Dogs men put them down. Taken by surprise and unarmed, they didnt put up much of a fight. The hobgoblin killed two without even bothering to use Elixir.


    cknail had made sure he was right at the front when the fighting started. That gave him an excuse to loot the bodies.


    Sometime after the hobgoblin had finished increasing the size of his bauble collection, the entire group of bandits he was with headed down to rendezvous with the others. The battle had ended a while ago and things seemed to have settled down.


    cknail led the way down the hill and through the trees. When he stepped out into the clearing one of the first people he saw was Vorscha. Several other people were nearby as well including Geralhd.


    The female warrior was seated on a crate someone had left next to a tent. Her armor was covered with mud and several bloodstains, but she looked unharmed. She had obviously seenbat but instead of resting she was busy cleaning her gear. Arge long sword was bnced on her knees and she seemed focused on wiping it down with a cloth.


    Geralhd was standing next to her and was inspecting a pair of daggers. Unlike his lovers, his armor looked perfectly clean.


    Hail the camp, Red Dog announced as he stepped out behind cknail.


    At the sound of his voice Vorscha looked up and smiled their way.


    There you are. I was wondering how long you were all going to hang out up on that hill, she said.


    Just as long as we needed to, Red Dog replied with a shrug.


    The rest of his men and Saeter walked up as well. Khita was directly behind the old scout and Varhs was holding the rear.


    Its good to see youre all alive. I was a little worried when Khita disappeared, Vorscha told them.


    And I was worried when she showed up, Red Dog added dryly.


    I can take care of myself, Khita interjected in an irritated tone.


    Maybe, Vorscha replied doubtfully.


    Red Dog ignored the exchange and turned to his men.


    You can all stay here. I need to find the boss and make a report, he told them before walking off towards the middle of the camp.


    I dont really need them. I have sentries out and everything else has been wrapped up already. They can go where they want, Vorscha announced before Red Dog had gone more than a few steps.


    Immediately, most the men either found somewhere to sit down or wandered off. cknail started off to find something interesting as well. There had to be something nearby worth eating or at least something entertaining.


    Not you, Saeter told the hobgoblin. Stay here. I still remember all the trouble you got intost time you wandered off in ce like this.


    The hobgoblin froze and scowled. He wanted to go look around but his master seemed determined that he stay here. That was no fun!


    Stupid nakeddy! the hobgoblin muttered irritably to himself.


    It wasnt like he was going to run into another one. That sort of thing wasntmon, was it?


    So, did you see any action? We had quite a bit here, Geralhd asked Saeter politely.


    You could say that? the old scout huffed.


    We got chased through the woods, shot at, and attacked by bunch of trees, Khita bragged.


    Is that right? Vorscha asked Saeter as she threw him an annoyed re.


    I didnt ask her toe, Saeter replied as he shrugged.


    His words caused Vorscha to sigh and turn back to her de. After a few more wipes she resheathed it.


    Well, thanks for bringing her back in one piece, she said as she looked back up.


    You need to stop worrying about other people. Youre not responsible for every hopeless case that wanders by. The girl needs to take care of herself, Saeter told Vorscha.


    Ya, stop, cknail added irately.


    It was annoying how Vorscha kept forcing cknail to look after Khita. The girl was constantly getting herself into trouble and she never even learned from her mistakes! Why did he need to be involved? That wasnt fair.


    Ya, stop, Khita said in imitation of the hobgoblin. I can take care of myself.


    Everyone ignored her. Geralhd coughed and politely changed the topic of the conversation.


    I must say, this is quite the victory for us and our capable leader. I hope the rest of this little backwoods war ends like this battle did, he observed aloud.


    It was foolish of Werrick to leave this force unsupported. We cut it to pieces like a hog on a b, Saeter told him.


    Maybe he didnt n on us finding them or maybe he just didnt care, Geralhd guessed.


    Logistics is a bitch, Vorscha exined. Werrick has to move quite a few men from several different ces to here. It cant be easy to do all that at the same time. Most likely he just made a mistake or one of his subordinates did. Its not like hes an experienced general and the man inmand here didnt seem all that smart.


    Still, thats just another advantage Herad has. Shes already emced and doesnt have to worry about being picked off in detail, Geralhd added.


    Were going to need every advantage we can get. Weve won this battle but not the war. Even after losing this many men Werrick will still outnumber us. Werrick can afford a mistake or two, Vorscha exined as she cleaned her de. All he needs to do is win one major battle and Herads position will be shattered.


    There was a grim silence as everyone considered her words. However, cknail wasnt too worried. Herad had one other advantage that no one had mentioned. She had him! He was the greatest killer in the North, if not the world! Let the human named Werricke. Death was waiting for him.

 Interlude: The Working of Magics

    Interlude: The Working of Magics


    Mahedium stared at the liquid solution in front of him. It had been hard to find sulfur pure enough but it looked to be working now. The contents of the ss beaker were a nice rose color and bubbling satisfactorily. The hot coals beneath the beaker were keeping the temperature just right.


    Yes, he had a good feeling about this batch. With some luck, a new type of crystal would soon start to form within the solution. With even more luck, it would be useful and easily reproducible! If the gods were truly looking down on him then it would be something even the guilds hadnt gotten their hands on yet.


    Wouldnt that be a grand twist of fate! For all their money, connections, and corrupt hoarding of knowledge he could still get the better of them! It would just take hard work and a lot of luck.


    Mahedium turned away from his work and headed over to his desk. He was in his personalb within Herads camp. It was an adequate facility and he had filled it with all the tools he needed to do his research. Shelves lined the room. They were full of books, ss containers, and strange metal devices.


    The room was dark and only lit by several smallmps. A multitude of shadowsy thick upon every surface, but there was enough light to see by.


    The mage passed by a small wooden cage as he walked, and there was a shuffling sound from within. Mahedium instinctively looked towards the noise. The small goblin captive inside the cage was staring out at him. Its gaze was calm and steady without a hint of fear.


    I know what you want, Mahedium said as he reached into a pocket and took out a bit of sausage.


    The mage reached down, opened the cage, and then tossed the morsel inside. The meat had been part of his lunch but he hadnt been hungry enough to finish it off. Sometimes he forgot to eat at all when he was working on a promising experiment. There was always so much to do.


    He didnt bother to close the cage door again. His goblin helper, and that was how he hade to think of the creature, was always very well behaved after it had been fed. Why wouldnt it be? It had shelter and food here.


    Yes, goblins are very simple creatures after all, the mage mused to himself as he continued on over to his destination.


    When he got to his desk, the mage reached over to grab amp stand. With practiced ease, he pulled the transparent crystal out from the top. As he was working, he heard the soft pitter-patter of footsteps behind him.


    Mahedium ignored the sound and took a second to examine the crystal, both with his eyes and with his mage sense. Since he was holding it against his bare flesh he could feel the power within the small mana stone.


    Its power tickled and warmed his skin. Mana stones had always felt almost alive to Mahedium, like they wanted to be used. It wasnt a very scientific belief but it was one he had never been able to getpletely out of his mind.


    But then how much do we really know about such things? he mused to himself.


    Mentally, he reached toward the transparent crystal in his hand and ignited it. It red to life and white light washed out across the room. The mage almost seemed to be holding congealed light aloof. It wasnt even warm.


    After a second, Mahedium grunted contentedly and then ced the stone back within themp. He had red the stone just enough to light his desk. He could have burned it brighter but then it would have lost power quicker and have to be reced sooner. There was no known way to recharge a mana stone.


    He hadnt needed to actually take the stone out of its casing to light it, but he had felt like reveling in simple sess for a second. He had felt so few of those moments recently. He was still alive and pursuing his research though, so he couldntin.


    Normally, to ignite a mana stone you needed physical contact. Mages had long ago developed ways around this, though. Activating magic by touch wasnt usually very practical.


    Certain metals conducted mana. If a conductive path was created between a mage and a stone then it could be ignited without direct contact, and from a safe distance.


    You could have done that, although not with my finesse and control, Mahedium said as he turned to look at the goblin behind him.


    As usual, the little creature was cidly standing behind the mage and watching what he did intently. He was probably attracted to the bright colors, unique aromas, and other distracting by-products of magical research. It was rather amusing how easily true intelligence could be imitated.


    Magic runs in your blood, just as it does mine. We are not simr in any other regard but in that we are brothers. Have we been chosen or is it just luck? Where does our gifte from? the mage asked himself contemtively.


    A few secondster, Mahedium sighed and turned back towards his desk. He didnt have time to think about such things, no matter how interesting.


    His work desk was covered in paper. Most of it was letters from various correspondents. Several of the messages were even in code. It wouldnt do for their secrets to be exposed.


    He had made quite a few useful contacts during his visit to Daggerpoint. The renegade mage known as Avorlus was particrly useful. His speciality might be Elixirs but he was in possession of more than a few interesting tidbits about mana stones as well.


    The mage stared at one letter in particr. It wasnt from Avorlus, although it had passed through his hands. The sender had offered Mahedium an exchange of knowledge and favors. If they were telling the truth then his research would be able to leap years ahead, if not decades.


    His thoughts were interrupted by the creak of a door opening. Mahedium frowned and nced over his shoulder. A young man, barely out of adolescence, stood in the door. He was carrying a sack over his shoulder, and was obviously straining to support its weight.


    Master, I have the charcoal you wanted, the young man announced.


    He was sweating from exertion and strands of his short brown hair were sticking to his forehead. He looked to be about 16 or so years of age.


    Ah, thank you. Just leave it there by the door please, Mahedium told the new arrival.


    Yes, master, the youth replied as he did as he was told.


    The mage had recruited his assistant in the nearby city of Riverdown. He was just a young man who had been down on his luck and seemed to have more intelligence than most street trash. Honest work was hard toe by these days, especially in the North.


    He had the mage gift too, of course. Mage blood was a crucialponent of all aspects of magic, and Mahedium had grown really tired of cutting himself. He was lucky he used to be an herbalist and thus knew how to deal with infections.


    Now that he had both an assistant and his pet goblin he almost never had to slice open his own fingers for a few drops of blood. Keeping the wounds clean had been such a pain.


    Come over here, Ressus. I want to show you how to take care of this, Mahedium told the young man.


    Yes, master, his assistant replied quickly as he walked over to the mage.


    On his way, the young man noticed the goblin standing over to Mahediums left. He paused and stared at it suspiciously.


    Should that critter really be left out? he asked.


    Sure, why not? the mage replied absentmindedly. Its never been a problem before and its quite useful really. I havent seen a single mouse or rat around since I started letting it out of its cage. The bloody vermin used to get into all my herbs. I even found a nest in one of the pots a while back. That isnt sanitary.


    Alright, his assistantmented as he walked over to peer over his masters shoulder and see what he was doing.


    I started this culture while you were gone, Mahedium exined. It should be done in a few hours. During that time, the heat must be kept steady so you have to rece the charcoal if it gets low.


    As you wish, master. That sounds simple enough, his assistant replied unenthusiastically.


    Mahedium sighed and shook his head. Why did Ressus sound so apathetic? They were studying magic!


    You have no idea how lucky you are! the mage used the young man. Youre learning secrets here that men would kill to possess. If you were to join one of the mage guilds you would end up asbat fodder and would never be allowed anywhere near real magic like this.


    Yes, master. Sorry, Ressus quickly replied as he flushed in embarrassment.


    The guilds keep all their secrets locked up in their colleges. Unless youre of noble blood or politically connected you would never be able to create your own spell stones, no matter how intelligent you were! Mahedium ranted. They would keep you reliant on them, and you would be nothing but a pawn in the games they y amongst themselves.


    I am very thankful, sir, his assistant replied but it was obvious the mage wasnt listening.


    The petty quarrels of the mage guilds are almost as harmful as their squandering of magical knowledge, the mage continued irately. It was right before the old empires copse that the guilds first came into power. Now, they have benefitted more than anyone else from all the constant warfare. They have grown rich and influential by selling war magic...


    Mahedium lost his train of thought and froze. His hands were held up above his head dramatically and there was a confused look on his face. Why where they discussing history? Didnt he have research to do?


    What was I just talking about? he asked Ressus.


    You were showing me how to take care of the crystal culture here, his assistant replied dryly.


    Ah, yes. Thats right. Just check in on it every few minutes and to make sure the heat is kept steady. If a mana stone starts to form within it inform me at once, the mage told the young man.


    With that done, Mahedium made his way over to a different table. What looked to be a disassembled staffy upon it. Small metal bits and gears were scattered around a long wooden rod. The staff had holes of various sizes in it and seemed to have a metal core.


    Right now, however, take a look at this. Im in the process of creating a new focus device. Its important that you understand at least the basic concepts involved in such a thing, the mage exined excitedly.


    Ressus was just hired help. He wasnt being trained as a researcher but he needed to know enough to lend a hand and fetch the correct tools.


    There is practically nothing magical about a staff or amulet, the mage added. Their purpose is to simply hold mana stones and channel their power in the correct direction, although they are sometimes reinforced by materials from crystal caverns. Most mana stones are far too dangerous to ignite by hand, and the results would be unpleasant anyway. Even a simple heat stone would burn the user.


    What does this staff do? his assistant asked.


    Mahedium smiled smugly before responding. He had been working on this idea for a while.


    My army staff is fine for producing light, heat, or explosive force but now that I have mastered producing other types of crystals I need something with more... punch, he answered.


    The young man just frowned thoughtfully and threw his master a questioning look. This just made the mage feel even smugger.


    Ive had problems piercing hard targets recently, such as giant mutant snakes, Mahedium exined. Once finished, this staff is designed to fire crystalline spikes. A force stone located here will propel the projectiles created by a second mana stone in this chamber.


    Giant mutant snakes? his assistant asked in surprise. Youre kidding, right sir?


    Hmm? No that was just a few months ago. The Deep Green is full of such things, or so I hear, Mahedium answered absentmindedly as he stared at the disassembled staff before him. Its unlikely another one will show up, but it would make a great weapons test.


    Behind him, the goblin had turned to look at the beaker of liquid Mahedium had set up earlier to grow a crystal in. While the mage and his assistant had been talking it had turned ck and started to boil with ever increasing fervor. The goblin eyed it for a second and then hurriedly backed away. Less than a secondter, he was back in his cage and the door was firmly shut.


    The noise attracted Mahediums attention as well. He looked up and stared at the beaker.


    You were supposed to keep the heat steady. Quickly, remove the coals, the mage ordered his assistant.


    The young man quickly spun around but he froze when his eyes took in the sight of the ck boiling liquid. He clearly didnt want to go anywhere near it.


    Dont worry its perfectly safe, the mage reassured him.


    Ressus reluctantly stepped forward, and Mahedium reached into one of his pockets. Carefully, the young man picked up a small rod and pushed the metal charcoal tray out from under the beaker.


    There was a loud bang as it exploded. The ss container instantly shattered and the liquid expanded outwards in a ck cloud. Shards of ck crystal shot out of the smoke.


    They flew around the room and several of them mmed into Ressus. His eyes went wide with shock and he crumpled bonelessly over backwards.


    Mahedium had been ready, however. His hand came out of his pocket holding a small steel amulet. The gem set in its center glowed. A see-through barrier appeared in front of him and the crystal shards headed his way shattered against it.


    Mahedium dropped his shield and tucked the amulet back away. He hadnt really expected the beaker to explode. Something like that had actually had been a very low probability oue, but it paid to be prepared.


    Ressuss body was lying on theb floor. Several long ck crystalline shards were impaled in him. One of them had pierced his left eye, so he was obviously very dead.


    The mage looked at his deceased assistant and sighed regretfully. He had actually liked the young man. He had shown a glimmer of promise, if only a glimmer.


    Oh well, it wouldnt be too hard to find a new assistant. He would undoubtedly be moving around a lot soon anyway, so having him underfoot might have been an inconvenience. Better to use disposable helpers for now.


    The knowledge he could glean from his experiments was worth the lives of a few assistants. They were just uneducated and unmotivated mage-gifted anyway. There were always more of them around.


    Mahedium threw a nce back towards his desk. There was a big battleing and he had a crucial part to y. As a mage, the power hemanded could easily turn the tides of war, and he was just getting stronger as he learned to harness new spells. One day his magic would change the world!


    Now though, he had better call someone to remove the corpse from hisb. It might contaminate something. When that was done, the mess from the explosion had to be cleaned up and the experiment restarted. Even magic could be tedious sometimes.

 Comes the Wolf 1

    Comes the Wolf 1


    cknail watched the enemy march down the road towards him. There were hundreds of them. The impact from their boots hitting the hard earth of the road filled the air with a thudding sound and caused dust to billow up into the sky.


    The savage looking fighters formed a long serpentine line of moving bodies. More and more of them came into sight as they marched past a bend in the road and out from behind a mass of greenery.


    The lead elements drew to a close out of bowshot. They were inly visible under the noonday sun because a gentle wind carried all the dust away and over the forest. Werricks main force had arrived.


    cknail watched from the forest nearby as theirmanders started ordering them to stop and rest their feet. Herad had sent the hobgoblin and Saeter out to keep an eye on the invaders.


    So many pathetic cowards, the hobgoblin hissed angrily.


    He was perched atop an old dead tree trunk that had fallen over in the forest. Ity on a angle so that the end cknail was seated on was several feet above the ground. Saeter was standing beside him. Together, the pair peered out past the edge of the woods at the enemy on the road before them.


    Theyre not doing anything. How can they be cowards? Saeter remarked with irritated uncertainty.


    Its because they arent doing anything! cknail answered him. They should-ss attack already. There are so many of them already, but they are just sitting there. Its boring!


    It would be nice if they were that stupid, his master mused aloud in reply.


    Ah, I have so many things to do! cknail whined as he red at the humans that had entered his territory uninvited. But I need to stay here and watch them! They might try something tricky-ss if I leave.


    Saeter was dressed in his forest greens. The wrinkles on his weathered face were inly visible as he eyed the hobgoblin critically. As usual he was clean-shaven and his grey hair was kept practically short.


    You dont need to watch them, and besides, what is it that you need to do so badly? If I didnt get you moving in the morning youd sit around all day like a pig in the mud, he replied dryly.


    Stuff. Important stuff, that is what I need to do, cknail responded carefully as he fidgeted ufortably.


    Usually, he did a daily round of the camp to make sure nothing had changed but he hadnt had time today. There were also a few items that he had hidden away and he liked to check in on them every once and a while. Not being able to do that was making his brain itch. What if a thief found them and hid them somewhere?


    Stupid humans, cknail hissed to himself as he continued to stare out at the enemy troops.


    What was that? His master asked.


    Nothing-ss, the hobgoblin quickly responded.


    His master would probably misunderstand thement. Sometimes cknail forgot that Saeter was technically a human. He was a lot smarter and sneakier than most other men.


    I think Ive seen enough. Lets head back, Saeter told the hobgoblin. I dont see any signs that they are nning on leaving the road or circling the camp.


    Sure, sure, cknail murmured distractedly back.


    The hobgoblin didnt budge. He remained perched on a log at the edge of the forest where he had a good view of the road. He knew that any second now the enemy humans were going to do something important and he didnt want to miss it.


    Come on, cknail. If that army starts to move then youll bloody know, trust me. You dont have to watch it yourself, Saeter said as started walking into the forest.


    The hobgoblin wasnt so sure. His personal experience was that all human sentries werepletely useless. He snuck by them all the time, it wasnt even that hard. He didnt think it unlikely that they could miss an army or two.


    Its about time for lunch, anyway, Saeter remarked loudly as he ducked under a low tree branch.


    With a sigh, the hobgoblin got up and followed his master. Watching the enemy was important but there was no way he was going to skip a meal.


    Together, the pair slipped through the forest back towards their camp. Saeter whistled a signal before stepping out onto the road in front of the gate. The entrance to their bands camp was heavily guarded.


    Herad had received plenty of warning of the enemys arrival. She had used that time to build up her defenses. The barrier of long wooden spikes that had run along the side of the camp facing the road had been expanded to encircle the entire base and raised tforms had been set up for archers. Trenches had also been dug to slow invaders down.


    Saeter and cknail carefully made their way up to the entrance. A dozen bandits were guarding the narrow gap in the wall. The closest one gave the pair a brief nod when he recognized them and signalled them forward.


    On the other side of the wall, several more squads of bandits were waiting and ready to reinforce the gate in case of an attack. They were armed and armored more heavily than usual. The sunlight from above asionally glinted off shields, helmets, and bits of armor.


    Off to one side, Herad stood at the base of a watchtower. She was issuing orders to several other bandits around her. Tension and the acrid smell of human sweat was thick in the air as Saeter headed over to talk to her. Everyone was waiting for the attack they knew wasing.


    I just came back from taking a look around, Saeter told the bandit chieftain when she noticed his approach.


    Oh, did you see anything important? Herad asked him derisively. You must have if youre bothering me about it. Im very busy right now.


    Its what I didnt see that matters, Saeter replied. I see no sign of Werrick being here yet. The enemy appears to be waiting for him.


    Youre probably right about that, Herad huffed darkly. If he was here we would know about it. Werrick is an arrogant braggart. He would announce himself with the subtlety of a charging ogre.


    I also havent seen any sign of mercenaries or anything unexpected, Saeter told her. It seems like they are nning on treating this like a straight up brawl.


    And that bothers you? Why? They could be with Werrick or on their way, Herad replied.


    Maybe, but something isnt sitting right in my gut, the old scout exined as he grimiced. This whole campaign feels pdash. We took out that exposed first group too easily and this next attack is too straightforward. Its like Werrick isnt even trying.


    I think youre overestimating Werrick, Herad countered.


    He could do better than this, the old scout responded darkly.


    I cant afford to be jumping at shadows now, old man, the bandit chieftain said as she rolled her eyes. If you do find something then feel free to inform me. If not, then keep out of my way and stop wasting my time with useless conjecture.


    Very well. As you wish, Saeter grumbled in reply as he turned and started walking off.


    Are we going to have lunch now? cknail asked his master as he followed behind him.


    Yes, because we bloody well earned it, Saeter replied crossly.


    Are you going to cook something? the hobgoblin asked hopefully.


    When he cooked or ate rations it was never nearly as good as the fare Saeter made. For instance, the worm stew cknail had made yesterday should have tasted a lot better than it had...


    No, the old scout answered as he looked around the camp.


    A few secondster, he started stomping over towards Vorschas cabin. Geralhd and her were seated out in front of it.


    Its someone elses turn to whip up some grub, Saeter grumbled.


    The hobgoblin and his master circled around arge group of bandits resting next to a pile of crates. When they got to the other side, Vorscha noticed them.


    Oh, Saeter! Geralhd and I were just sitting down to eat. Care to join us? she asked him cheerily.


    Is Khita going to appear out of nowhere? Saeter asked her suspiciously.


    Not likely. Shes apparently fooling around with Varhs right now. The little vixen has that man wrapped around her little finger, the muscr woman replied with a knowing wink. I taught her how to do that.


    Saeter blinked and mentally digested that remark for a second before replying.


    Ill ept your invitation and join you then, the old scout replied neutrally as he walked over. I hope you arent having rations or such shit.


    Vorscha smiled at both him and cknail. There was a delicious meaty aromaing from their fire-pit. They had something roasting the mes on a spit. It obviously wasnt any kind of trail ration.


    All we have is a bit of venison and some fairly fresh bread but youre wee to it. You may have even brought the meat in yourself, Geralhd exined as he gestured towards the fire.


    It smells great, cknail told him as he sniffed the air and licked his lips.


    What do you think of this mess we''re in? Saeter asked Vorscha as he sat down across from her.


    The fight with Werrick you mean? she asked.


    Of course, what else could I mean? Saeter grunted back.


    I think Im tired and want to rest for a bit. Its important to keep rested up before a battle, Vorscha replied.


    This is important. Things have been too easy. Herad doesnt see any problems but my instincts are telling me something is wrong, Saeter told her.


    It might be because there is arge army a few hundred feet that way intent on killing us all. That bothers me! Geralhdmented dryly.


    Then you should go do something about it, Saeter told him sarcastically.


    That caused cknail to giggle. The image of Geralhd trying to fight off an army, or even more than one person, was hrious.


    Its not like weve been winning every battle, Vorscha pointed out. Werrick has pushed us back all the way here. Im still sore from the fight at the river.


    Thats just weight of numbers, Saeter told her. Herad wasnt seriously nning on stopping him before he got here. Those fights went exactly the way Herad wanted them to.


    We could have held the river for quite a while if that mage hadnt frozen it. It would have nice to have done a bit more damage there, Vorscha countered as she grimaced in distaste.


    cknail remembered the fight at the river. It had just been a few days ago. Mostly, he had just stood back and shot a few arrows at the enemy. Not that he had been counting, but he had managed to hit two enemies. He had even been aiming for one of them!


    Vorscha had led arge group and tried to stop the enemy from crossing the river. At first it had been easy to pick off anyone trying to make the crossing. However, when the river had started to freeze over they had immediately retreated.


    Even that was a victory for Herad. She drew that mage out into the open and now she has a better idea of the tricks he has at his disposal, the old scout countered.


    I think youre logic is a little wed there, Saeter, Geralhd interjected. It sounds to me like youre trying to twist things to fit your argument.


    Its a good thing that I dont care then, Saetermented before turning back to Vorscha.


    The thing is, we both know things are going too smoothly, the old scout told her. It doesnt seem like Werrick is really even trying! Hells, he hasnt even bothered to show up yet!


    Maybe he just likes to sleep in. If I was the boss Id sleep in all the time, cknail contributed.


    How great would it be to sleep in to noon every day? He could stay curled up in his nkets and minions would bring him breakfast...


    Vorscha took a few seconds to think. The tall woman frowned and poked at the fire with a stick. There was a crack as a hot coal shifted and a small shower of sparks rose into the air.


    It does seem like he is doing exactly what we expect him to, she admitted. Thats not something I would anticipate from a man of his reputation. He hasnt be the most powerful bandit chief in the North by being an idiot.


    Exactly, hes basically just throwing bodies at us! Saeter announced. Weve bled him quite a bit so far by making him fight for every choke point on the way here, but what if he doesnt care? What if its not only Herads n that is going perfectly but his as well?


    I dont like that idea, but it makes a lot of sense. It would exin why we havent seen much from the man himself. There has been no need for him to change his ns or get involved, Vorscha mused sourly.


    But that would mean he wants to fight us here? Geralhd remarked with a voice full of doubt. I cant see the logic in that. We have all the advantages here! He doesnt outnumber us all that much and we have a solid defensive position. How does he expect to get through our walls?


    I dont know what he is nning. My gut is just telling me he has a n, and that we wont like it, Saeter told him.


    You sure know how to ruin someones appetite, Saeter, Vorscha remarked. No wonder you dont get invited over to eat by many people.


    cknail nodded in agreement. Even he got invited over more than his master and he wasnt the most popr member of Herads band. It was probably because Saeter was so grumpy and because hobgoblins were so handsome.


    Werrick doesnt need to have some sort ofplex machinations in the works, Geralhd added. Maybe he simply thinks he has the des and mages to swamp us under. He is known to be quite the arrogant ruffian.


    Just right, we have a few tricks up our own sleeves as well, Vorschamented as she raised a fist and grinned confidently. The enemy isnt going to be getting inside our walls without a hell of a fight.


    I should just stab this Werrick man, the hobgoblin mused. All this waiting for battle is getting annoying.


    A leader as powerful as Werrick probably also had a lot of great stuff to loot. There was no way he would be able to get his hands on it during a battle but if he was the one that killed Werrick it would be very different.


    Its probably best if you dont try that, Geralhd told cknail. Werrick is a skilled Vessel. They say he has killed hundreds of men.


    Ive killed Vessels before, cknail said without concern as he shrugged.


    It hadnt even been that hard. Everyone needed to sleep and human guards were usuallyzy. The trick was to stab them in the back a few times before the fight started.


    Not like the Wolf, you havent, Saeter interjected. If skilled assassins could get anywhere near him then he would already be dead. He will have heard of you and wont be taking any chances. You werent exactly subtle back in Daggerpoint.


    I was the sneakiest! No one saw meing, cknail bragged as his master rolled his eyes.


    Maybe, but they sure noticed the bloody carnage you left in your wake. You went through Daggerpoint like a troll through a barn, the old scout replied.


    Suddenly, the sound of trumpets red from the other side of the walls. Geralhd and cknail both jumped in surprise.


    The hobgoblin dropped the bit of bread he had been holding, but he quickly picked it off the ground and shoved it into his mouth. The dirt didnt even make it taste any worse. It was almost a seasoning, really.


    Shouting immediately followed the sound of instruments, from both outside the camp and within it. Bandits all round the camp began to move.


    Vorscha get over here! I need you at the wall, Herad called out of the din.


    The tall woman was instantly on her feet. She grabbed the long sword that had been lying at her side and started running towards Herads voice.


    The others were quick to follow. Men and women were rushing around everywhere but they managed to find a way through the crowds. Together, they ran over to the closest stretch of wall and peeked through the gaps in the posts. The lookout tforms were already crowded.


    It was immediately obvious what had raised the rm. Werricks army had started to move. As the trumpets red, banners rose above the enemy host. A white wolfs head flew on a ck field.


    There was a chorus of shouting as the lead elements of the enemy army began to march forward towards Herads base. The sound of the footsteps echoed off the trees. Before they got into bow range, shields were hoisted up to form a protective barrier. The attack had begun.


    There could be no doubt, the Wolf himself had finally arrived.

 Comes the Wolf 2

    Comes the Wolf 2


    The enemy shield wall drew closer. It contained hundreds of men and spanned the road from one end to the other. The approaching formation of soldiers only ended where the edge of the forest got in the way.


    First rank, fire! Herad yelled.


    A swarm of buzzing arrows leapt into the air. They rose from all along the wall and then descended upon Werricks men. The sound of all the arrows hitting the enemies shields was almost like the patter of raindrops on a roof, only with more screaming in the background.


    Unfortunately, while some of Werricks men did fall as arrows slipped through the gaps in their defensive barrier, most of the enemies remained unharmed. They continued marching towards the wooden barricade Herad had erected to block their way.


    Second rank, fire! Herad yelled.


    Another cloud of arrows hit the enemy, with much the same effect.


    Should we do something? Geralhd asked Saeter as he stared at the enemy.


    The hobgoblin and them were standing at the wall and peeking between the crude wooden posts thatposed most of its length.


    Feel free to run out there if you want, Saeter replied sarcastically. I n on staying right here unless Im ordered to move.


    I think-ss I should go scout something out in the woods, cknail added. Just in case the enemy attacks... somewhere else.


    The hobgoblin''s guts felt a little watery as he stared at the approaching army. Standing in its way didnt seem like a great idea.


    Youre staying right next to me, Saeter ordered cknail as he turned to give him a level stare.


    The hobgoblin grinned nervously back but nodded in affirmation. He would have to wait until things got more chaotic before making a break for it.


    Do you think he will want to parley? Geralhd asked.


    Who, Werrick? What would be the point? Saeter answered condescendingly.


    To settle his differences with Herad without getting hundreds of people killed? the other man asked with uncertain hope.


    Ha, neither of them will give ground. They have nothing to talk about. This is a fight to the death, Saeter replied.


    Why are we even fighting again? Geralhd wanted to know. I know Herad and Werrick hate each other, but how does Werrick profit from a huge fight like this? Shouldnt he be more concerned with robbing people and other bandit activities?


    Feelings have very little to do with this, Saeter told the other man. Things in the North are changing and there isnt room for two top dogs.


    Wait, I thought the boss was just protecting our territory from intrusion. She never said she wanted to rule over any of the other bands! Geralhd remarked in surprise.


    You dont know Herad very well, Saeter exined knowingly. "Holding this patch ofnd and setting herself up as its ruler was always but the first step. With a firm footing here she could quickly expand all through the North.


    Thats just great, Geralhd remarked sarcastically before sighing deeply.


    Yep, if you can conquer morend why would you ever stop? cknail eximed excitedly. He had always assumed that Herad was going to kill all her rivals.


    So that you dont get killed in a stupid battle in the middle of nowhere? Geralhd countered as he frowned at the hobgoblin.


    Everyone dies, but not everyone gets the pick of all the best loot, cknail pointed out.


    Geralhd sighed and looked back at the wall. He didnt seem convinced. In the background, another volley of arrows flew into the air at Heradsmand.


    This is an enlightening conversation but perhaps we should focus on the battle that is about to be joined, he said. Im still not sure what I should be doing right now.


    If Vorscha didnt order you to do anything then just stay back, Saeter huffed. You can join one of the reserve units if you want, but its not like youre even properly equipped,


    Geralhd turned and gave the old scout an annoyed re. The younger man was dressed in lighter clothes than most of the nearby bandits. Instead of armor he was wearing a long cloth shirt and a thin leather vest. Even the leather jackets cknail and Saeter wore offered much more protection.


    I like being able to move freely, and I dont see you manning the walls, he remarked dryly.


    Not my job, Saeter countered. I just got back from a scouting mission. Im not a grunt.


    Im not a grunt either, Geralhd replied.


    Oh, then what are you? A camp follower? the old scout joked as he grinned with obvious amusement.


    The younger man stared at Saeter coldly. It looked like he wanted to say something but he bit his tongue instead and remained silent. After a few seconds he turned to look at the approaching army.


    Why doesnt Herad just have Mahedium st their formation? They are all tightly packed together, Geralhd asked to redirect the conversation.


    Do you think Werrick doesnt know we have a mage? This entire attack could just be bait, Saeter told him. If Mahedium shows himself then Werricks own mages will bombard him with everything they have.


    Oh, I had forgotten about them. Why is Werrick even bothering with an assault? His mages could just st our barricade to smithereens, Geralhd asked.


    cknail turned to look at the wooden wall that was a mere three feet away from him. He could easily picture it exploding into a hail of deadly splinters.


    Why are we standing here? he asked his master doubtfully. This seems like a bad idea.


    Saeter shook his head and rolled his eyes condescendingly.


    He doesnt want to lose his own mages, he told Geralhd. Herad probably has Mahedium lying in wait, ready to drop a ton of war magic on Werricks mages the second they try and assault our barricades. The first side to reveal its magic users is at a disadvantage in a fight like this.


    So both Herad and Werrick are holding back in hopes of forcing the enemy tomit their mages? Geralhd mused.


    Or whatever other tricks they have tucked away, Saeter confirmed.


    Obviously, cknail added smugly as he took severalrge steps away from the wall, just in case it suddenly exploded.


    A squad of Herads men ran up beside the hobgoblins group. The enemy was only a few seconds from the wall now. Herad could be heard yelling for reinforcements at the gate.


    Both cknail and Geralhd turned to look at Saeter for guidance; he was the only one who knew what was going on. However, the old scout didnt appear to be in a hurry. He seemed content to just stand there.


    There was a furious scream. cknail winced as he instinctively covered his head and ducked. Werricks men hit the wall; their formation seemed to ripple as it halted their advance.


    What are they... Geralhd stared to ask before he was interrupted by a chopping sound.


    He flinched as an axe de hit the barrier. It was swiftly followed by many more blows as the enemy started chopping their way through the barrier. Ladders appeared from out of the mass of enemies and were thrown up against the wall.


    Arrows continued to fall on Werricks troops but men with shields stopped most of the deadly projectiles. Several bandits near cknail started using spears to pushdders down or to stab through the wall at the axemen, but most of Herads minions didnt seem to know what to do. They could only wait for the enemy to make their way through or over the wall.


    More intense fighting was happening at the entrance to the camp. A mass of enemy troops were trying to force their way through the gap in the wall there. However, that was also where Herad had most her troops.


    Both friends and foes were pressed closely together as the wall channelled Werricks troops towards the entrance there. Bandits hacked and shed at each other relentlessly as they fought for space.


    Herad wasnt fighting on the front lines. She was watching and yelling orders from behind as her minions fought to push the enemy back.


    cknail took a step back as an axe head burst through the wall near him. As a pair of bandits stepped forward to deal with it, the hobgoblin noticed the top of adder appear above the barricade. It began to shake as someone started to climb it.


    His first instinct was to let someone else deal with the problem but then an amusing idea urred to him. After a quick look around, cknail jumped onto the wall and began to climb. His ws had no problem gripping the wooden posts and they easily supported his weight.


    Once he got to the top, cknail waited a few seconds. Soon enough, a mans head popped up and looked around. He froze when he noticed the hobgoblin staring up at him from only few inches away.


    cknail smiled and sliced one of the hands the man was using to cling to thedder. His knife cut cleanly through several fingers.


    The man yelped in pain and flinched backwards. His face was an agonised red and his eyes were wide with terror as cknail pushed over thedder he was standing on. The hobgoblin smiled as he watched the man crash into his fellows below.


    With that done, cknail scampered back down the wall to safety. Hed had his fun and hanging around would be dangerous.


    Saeter and Geralhd were still standing in the same spot, so cknail walked back over to them. The hobgoblin gave his master a happy smile. Saeter just rolled his eyes.


    Unless either of you feel like joining the defense here, I see no reason to stay, Saetermented before turning and striding away. I want to get a better view and right now I cant see the forest for the trees.


    I dont think Id be much help here. Lead the way, Geralhd quickly replied as he threw a nervous nce over his shoulder at the fighting going on near the wall.


    The young man then quickly hurried after the old scout. cknail didnt feel the need to stick around either, so he joined them.


    Saeter led the other two over to a small hill thaty closer to the camps entrance. The old scout stepped up onto one of the crates there and began looking around.


    At the gate something was happening. The fighting slowed down as the front rank of the enemy split. A man with a chainmail shirt and a steel helmet that covered his face stepped forward.


    Wielding a long sword in one hand andrge round shield in the other he began cutting down all of Herads men within reach. The effortless way he swung his heavy weapon around seemed to indicate he was a Vessel.


    The forces Herad had guarding the entrance to her camp hesitated. As the Vessel stepped forward, none of them went to meet him, instead they held back.


    Cowards, all of you! the Vessel bellowed arrogantly. Will none of you face me? Not even your useless bitch of a leader, Herad?


    The bandit chieftain didnt budge. She simply glowered at the enemy without answering. After a few moments she began yelling out new orders.


    Is that Werrick? cknail asked inquisitively. Maybe things were finallying to a head!


    No, Werrick is taller than that and would never expose himself so early, his master exined.


    Ah, Herad should just go kill that human, cknail remarked as he frowned in disappointment. He doesnt look so tough and shes scary strong.


    Thats what Werrick wants, you green idiot, Saeter countered gruffly. What do you think will happen if Herad steps out onto the front line?


    Er, something bad? the hobgoblin replied uncertainly.


    The old scout reached over and smacked the side of the hobgoblins head.


    She will be roasted like a feast day duck! Werrick will bombard her with all the magic at his disposal and that will be the end of us, Seater exined heatedly.


    Okay, she shouldnt do that then, cknail replied sheepishly as he rubbed his sore head.


    When no one appeared to challenge him, the enemy Vessel charged. His sword mmed into the neck of a bandit and then he stabbed the chest of another. He wasnt alone either; a squad of heavily armed soldiers protected his nks.


    I hope Werrick doesnt have many more Vessels at his disposal, Geralhd remarked. We only have Herad and um... cknail.


    Herad has trust issues when ites to other Vessels, but it seems like the Wolf doesnt, Saeter exined.


    Except for me, because Im so loyal and handsome. Im the boss favourite! cknail added cheerfully.


    Herads minions seemed incapable of stopping the enemy Vessel''s advance. As the flow of the battle turned against her, Herad yelled out a new series of orders. Suddenly, the center of the bandit formation defending the gate began to pull back.


    Werricks men surged forward unopposed, especially the Vessel and those around him. Rather than fight him, Herads minions retreated.


    The Vessel lunged forward to attack, but his sword smashed harmlessly into the shield of a defender. The bandits nearby all raised shields and stuck together as they fell back.


    Cowards! the Vessel roared.


    However, he didnt chase them further. He was already too far ahead of most of hispanions. Only a few of Werricks men had kept up with him.


    The Vessel raised his shield and banged his sword hilt against it angrily, as he held his position and waited for reinforcements. Before that could happen though, Herad yelled another order and flight of arrows descended upon him.


    Most the projectiles missed as the Vessel dove to the side and then raised his shield defensively. Hispanions werent all so lucky; several of them fell to the ground with bloody wounds.


    However, the rest of the arrows bounced ineffectively off the Vessels shield and armor. For a moment, he hesitated, unsure of whether to advance or retreat.


    Herad ordered another volley and the man made up his mind. He roared a challenge and charged forward. A horde of Werricks men raced after him towards the defenders.


    The enemies stepped through the gap in the wall and into the bandits camp. Before they could steady themselves though, more of Herads troops emerged from both sides. They mmed into the attackers.


    A fierce melee erupted at the entrance of the camp as the defenders attempted to encircle the Vessel and the men near him. More attackers poured through the gate in an attempt to stop them until the fight was a chaotic mess.


    In the center of it all, the sword wielding Vessel continued to batter Herads men around. It seemed like he would hold his ground long enough to create a hole in Herads defenses and allow the attackers to gain a foothold in the camp.


    That was when Herad joined the fight. She drew her sword and charged towards the melee, with her bodyguards at her back. Her minions quickly got out of the way as she raced forwards.


    The enemy Vessel was fighting hard to hold his ground. He bashed one of Herads men aside with his shield and then shed at another. His sword battered another mans weapon aside and it went flying.


    That was when Herad attacked. The bandit chieftain dashed out from behind a group of her minions and struck. Her deshed out towards the enemys neck with viper-like speed.


    He managed to step back and block the first blow but then Herad smoothlyunched a barrage of lighting fast attacks. He could only stumble backwards and try to hold his shield up in front of himself.


    As Herad kept the Vessel busy, two of her bodyguards charged in from the side. They were big men in dark leather armor and they held long spears, which they stabbed towards the enemys chest.


    The Vessel had no option but to try and block this new attack, and Herasd took full advantage of this. She ducked under a swing of his sword and then shed his groin. Crimson blood sshed onto the ground and the enemy stumbled.


    Herad tripped the stunned warrior and he hit the ground with a metallic crash. She then drew a knife from a sheath on her belt. Its oddly thin de glinted in the sun as she stabbed it down through his chainmail shirt and into his heart.


    She did it! Geralhd observed happily.


    Of course she did. That was the easy part, Saeter grunted in reply.


    Without wasting a second or reiming the dirk, Herad immediately turned and started running away. Her body guards were right behind her.


    From somewhere at the back of the enemy formation, several dozen feet outside the camp, a ball of energy suddenly appeared. It hung in the air and glowed with an odd green light. Then, without warning, it arced off towards where Herad had been fighting.


    The crackling orb flew over the heads of fighters from both sides before hitting the ground a few feet from the fallen Vessels body. A secondter, it exploded into green me.


    Dozens of men were thrown off their feet and the smell of burning flesh filled the air. Herad was well out of the st zone though, and most the victims were Werricks own men.


    From atop one of the archer tforms behind the wall, a st of fire descended at the origin of the magic. Mahedium had revealed himself.


    The scarlet me flew towards the location of the enemy mage, only to be stopped by an invisible barrier. However, the me didntpletely disappear. Tongues of flire slid of the barrier and rained down on the men below. More screams of pain and horror filled the air.


    Immediately, Mahediumunched another attack. This time, there was a screeching sound as a st of energy hit the ground beneath the barrier. The earth beneath the target burst open. Jagged shards of rock flew into the air as the ground tore itself apart in a violent eruption. All the nearby troops were thrown off their feet as the earth sliced into them.


    There was no way to tell if the enemy mage had been hit or not, but no more obvious magic was cast by them. Mahedium also stopped his attack. cknail saw the mage jump down from the tform and quickly hurry away.


    More magic wasnt necessary, though; the enemys advance halted. They had managed to cut their way into Herads camp but they had lost their Vessel and been hit by several damaging magical sts. Herads troops redoubled their efforts and started to push the intruders back. The enemys morale had been crushed.


    Someone else had noticed the attackers poor position as well. Trumpets called out from across the battlefield. It was the signal to retreat, and Werricks men began to disengage from the fighting.


    The first day of fighting was over but there would be more. Off in the distance, the wolf head banner continued to fly above a still mostly intact hostile army.

 Comes the Wolf 3

    Comes the Wolf 3


    Well, thats all over, Saeter remarked. Im going to go sit down.


    You didnt do anything, Geralhd pointed out. We just stood here and watched the battle.


    Wrong, I was out scouting before the fight. Thats my job, the old scout replied. You are the only one here that didnt do anything.


    I fought one enemy, cknail added proudly. He wont be climbing the wall again without-ss the fingers I cut off.


    Geralhd didnt have anything to say that. He sighed in dissatisfaction before turning away and looking at the retreating enemy. cknail thought he should have been used to being useless by now.


    The hobgoblin also took a second to look over the battlefield. This hadnt been the first human battle hed ever seen, but he had been impressed by it nheless. Not only had there been more fighters than he could count but the way they fought all together was overwhelming. Also, the magic was scary. What could a normal hobgoblin do against that sort of power?


    Goblins would be climbing all over each other if they had been packed that tightly, and that was only if they didnt start fighting among themselves. Even if they did stay loyal they would most likely forget which side they were supposed to be on.


    Below them, Mahedium was still moving away from the wall, in case the enemy retaliated against him for his earlier magic, but he had slowed his pace. The mage noticed Saeter and the others atop the hill and headed their way.


    Can you see whats going on from there? Mahedium asked as he approached.


    Most of it, Saeter grunted in reply. The enemy is retreating.


    The old scout looked annoyed at this new interruption. He had been about to leave before Mahedium called out to him.


    That was some spectacr magic and a great improvement over your earlier works, Geralhd congratted the mage. You certainly put some fear into the enemy.


    Thank you, that means somethinging from an educated man such as yourself, Mahedium replied. I am always striving to advance my craft.


    Ive seen both better and much worse, Saeter noted objectively.


    I imagine you have, and Ill take that as apliment, Mahedium replied graciously as he nced at the old scout.


    cknail was fairly sure his masters words hadnt been apliment. Saeter didnt give a lot of those out.


    I liked the explosions, hemented. You should blow people up more often; its hrious. I wish I could do that!


    The hobgoblin waved one hand dramatically in the direction of the enemy and made a fake sounding explosion noise.


    Everyone took a second to consider what would happen if cknail ever gained such an ability. Judging by the pained look on his face, Mahedium in particr found the idea unsettling.


    Anyway... do you think you got that enemy mage? Geralhd asked Mahedium.


    I dont know, the mage admitted. Things were very chaotic there at the end. He was too far away for me to see clearly.


    Hopefully you got him. You certainly sted everything around him beyond dust and death, Geralhd replied happily.


    Herads n was effective. Im simply grateful that she knew what she was doing and that she obviously values me, Mahediummented. If she had been less worried about my safety and had ordered me to attack first I might not have survived that fight.


    Oh, she wont throw away someone so useful, Saeter agreed as he grinned unkindly at the mage.


    Ah, yes. I heard that battles where both sides have mages can beplicated and dangerous, Geralhd interjected carefully.


    Indeed, the key to hostile exchanges between mages is twofold, Mahedium exined. Firstly, you have to hit hard and fast. It is easier to attack than defend. Secondly, if that fails, you need to analyze your opponents defenses and find a way around them. Having a multitude of attack spells is important.


    All of Mahediums long winded chatting didnt interest cknail. He nced away and observed the activity going on all around him. Maybe there was something interesting going on, or free food around.


    There were certainly a lot of human corpses littering the ground. It was a shame that humans didnt approve of their dead being made into snacks. Well, they didnt taste all that good, anyway.


    On the other side of the barrier that blocked the way into camp from the road, Werricks troops hade to stop. They were well out of bow range and had returned to their own encampment. Their camp, most of which was out of sight beyond a twist in the road and a barrier of trees, was swarming with activity. The fight might be over for now but wounds had to be tended and order had to be restored.


    That was certainly what Herad was doing. The bandit chieftain was yelling orders as she stomped up and down the length of the wall.


    Lets move, its windy here, cknail suggested to the others as he watched her.


    Standing up on the hill made them very visible, and the hobgoblin didnt want to catch Herads attention. She might give him work.


    Good idea, Saeter replied as he started down the hill.


    Geralhd and cknail immediately followed the scout towards his campsite, but Mahedium hesitated. He remained where he was and nced towards his cabin.


    I should really talk to Herad and then get back to myb, the mage announced.


    Good, you do that, Saeter grunted as cknail waved goodbye.


    Without further interruption, the two men and the hobgoblin walked the short distance to where cknail and Saeters tents were set up. The camp was oddly empty. No one was near the cabins or tents at the back of the clearing. Almost everyone was still over by the wall.


    Why did you follow us? I didnt actually invite you, Saeter asked Geralhd as he took a seat on a chair by the fire pit.


    I dont really have anywhere else to go, Geralhd replied as he shrugged. Vorscha is probably busy off doing something important and I dont want to get in the way.


    cknail smiled as well. It was obvious the thin human had grown used to Saeters grumpiness and was ignoring it. That was fine with cknail; he enjoyed having Geralhd around, it usually meant more food for him.


    The hobgoblin and Geralhd took seats near Saeter. The old scout ignored them. He reached over to grab arge sack and began going through its contents.


    I dont suppose you want to y some dice to help spend our time more quickly? Geralhd asked Saeter.


    No, Saeter grunted without turning away from the bag he was rummaging in.


    I suppose I could teach cknail to y... the young man mused to himself thoughtfully as cknails ears perked up.


    Before the hobgoblin could reply though, someone yelled in their direction. They all turned to see who it was and saw Varhs approaching.


    The other scout was dressed in his leather armor and was wearing his forester cloak. Behind him, Scamp plodded along happily. The goblin was wearing a pair of brown human sized trousers that had been cut short and secured with rope.


    Its good to see you all intact, Varhs greeted them as he grinned and waved cheerfully in their direction. Although, I never doubted for moment that you were fine, Saeter. If mere mortal des could pierce your old hide it would have happened years ago.


    Geralhd smiled at the joke. cknail red at Scamp. The little goblin had disappeared for a while during a fight with some of Werricks men out in the forest. Since then, the hobgoblin had been sure that he had smelled traces of him around, but he had neverid eyes on Scamp until now. Obviously, the goblin had been avoiding him.


    Saeter saw the other scout, frowned, and then did a quick double-take. He nced behind the man and seemed relieved that there was no one behind him except Scamp.


    Youre alone, right? he asked. That red-haired pest isnt following you?


    What? No, Khita had some stuff to wrap up, Varhs remarked in surprise. She seems to go wherever she wants.


    The younger scout looked a little troubled when he talked about Khita. He winced and pouted slightly. Maybe they had gotten into a fight, or maybe he had finally realized being around her was making him stupid.


    cknail hoped she was dead. Khita was useless and annoying.


    As long as she isnt <em>here</em>, Saeter replied. "I see your goblin came back,


    This newment seemed to cheer Varhs up. His frown quickly became a self-satisfied smile.


    Scamp came back the very next day, Varhs answered. Hes a greatpanion and very well trained. He just got lost in the forest for a bit after that chase.


    Trained by me, not you, cknail muttered in disgust.


    Scamp was an undisciplined nuisance! cknail had no idea why the scout had gone out of his way to find and train a goblin. Varhs let Scamp do whatever he wanted and he had never taught the goblin how to behave.


    When Scamp had caused a huge mess a while ago he had almost been executed by Herad. He had only survived because cknail had promised to help train him.


    The hobgoblin had selflessly tried to beat some sense into Scamp in exchange for the asional snack. However, the hobgoblin had eventually grown too busy to continue the training. The snacks hadnt been very good either.


    cknail had more important things to do now, like keep an eye on Elyias, his new minion. Wait... he had forgotten about Elyias.


    Oops, cknail muttered to himself.


    He hoped his minion hadnt managed to get himself killed. That would be inconvenient. The man was amusing.


    So are you here for a reason, or are you just trying make a nuisance out of yourself? Saeter asked as he scowled at the younger scout.


    I just got back from watching the forest paths, Varhs replied. Herad told me to check in on you and make sure you were going back out soon.


    There are plenty of other scouts that can do that job. Why do I need to go out? Saeter asked sourly.


    Im not the one you need to convince. Go argue with Herad and see how that works, Varhs replied brusquely. I can only guess that the boss values your skills and cknails nose.


    It is very nice looking. cknail bragged happily as he wiggled his nose.


    There was a chuckle from Varhs and Geralhd. Even Saeter grinned. cknail took this to mean that they agreed with him and that the very idea of someone disagreeing was hrious. He was an undeniably handsome hobgoblin.


    I have some chores to finish before I head back out. Im not leaving right away, Saeter told Varhs as he scowled in annoyance.


    Again, its not me you have to worry about. Im just the messenger, the other scout replied with a shrug.


    Then, she should be here telling me herself, Saeter muttered angrily.


    cknail frowned. He was fairly certain that wasnt how the chieftain and subordinate rtionship worked. His master was getting dangerously grumpy again.


    Lets just go out. Its quieter out there anyway. You like the forest, cknail interjected.


    The hobgoblin took it upon himself to prevent any conflict between Herad and his master. Saeter was usually very wise but when it came to the chieftain he was stupider than Scamp after he had been kicked in the head a few times.


    Fine. I have some stuff to do first, though. I need a few minutes, Saeter replied reluctantly.


    While everyone else had been talking, Scamp had wandered over to Geralhd. The bandit noticed the goblin and reached into one of his pockets. A secondter, he pulled out bit of dried meat.


    There you go, Geralhd said as he handed the morsel to the little goblin.


    Traitor! cknail involuntarily gasped as his mouth fell upon in shock.


    Geralhd was supposed to give treats to him! Scamp didnt deserve tasty things! Even if Scamp was behaving himself it was only because cknail kept him in line.


    The hobgoblin was so going to give Scamp a good kicking, and the next time Geralhd needed help he was on his own! They had betrayed his trust!


    Hm, what was that, cknail? I bet you want a treat too, Geralhdmented as he turned towards him.


    The man then pulled something out of his pocket and tossed it to the hobgoblin. cknail quickly snatched the gift out of the air and studied it. Was it... candied fruit! Joy!


    Yummy, thank you! cknail eximed happily as he shoved the treat into his mouth and began chewing.


    Of course I have something for you, my favourite hobgoblin, Gerahld told him.


    As he scoffed the treat down, the hobgoblin smirked smugly and eyed Scamp.


    The goblin was staring at cknail, with obvious jealousy, as he chewed on his pathetic piece of meat. That cheered the hobgoblin uppletely. Fine, he would forgive Geralhd and Scamp.


    Scamp could keep his tiny morsel. cknail knew how to make dried meat himself anyway and could do it anytime. He was practically throwing the stuff out. Candied fruit was so much better than meat, just like he was superior to Scamp!


    I need to go get back a dagger I leant someone. You can wait here, cknail, Saeter announced as he got to his feet.


    cknail was too busy chewing to do more than nod as his master walked away. Geralhd invited Varhs to y a round of dice, and the scout agreed. Varhs took a seat and the pair started a game. Apparently, Geralhd had been carrying the dice in his pocket throughout the entire battle.


    Instead of watching, cknail took advantage of the humans preupation to sneak up behind Scamp and ce a hand on his shoulder. When the goblin turned around, cknail smiled toothily down at him.


    Hey, boss, Scamp nervously addressed the hobgoblin.


    He had flinched at cknails touch and didnt seem happy to have his attention. That was fine with cknail.


    So, youve been getting tasty treats from Geralhd, the hobgoblin mused aloud.


    He wasnt upset at the goblin anymore, not really, but there was a certain pecking order that had to be enforced. cknail was at the top.


    Have you been avoiding me? the hobgoblin inquired with false cheer. Maybe, because you did something bad?


    No, boss! Scamp whined. I um... was looking for stuff to give you!


    Really? the hobgoblin replied skeptically.


    Ya, look, the goblin said as he rummaged through the pockets of his pants.


    After a few seconds of searching, the goblin withdrew a collection of small items and held them up to cknail. The hobgoblin studied them. He saw a few coins, some shiny rocks, a mouse skull, and a twisted bit of metal.


    Alright, fine. I believe you, cknail told Scamp reluctantly, even though he knew the goblin was lying through his crooked pointy teeth.


    It was just useless junk and no good to cknail at all, but it was the act of giving that was important. It showed who was in charge, even if the hobgoblin already had much shinier rocks than these.


    Is this everything? cknail asked Scamp.


    The goblin froze before looking off to the side thoughtfully and scratching his head. He seemed to remember something after a moment, because he reached back into his pockets.


    I did meet that goblin in the mages house, Scamp admitted.


    As he listened, cknails eyes grew wide from shock. They were organizing against him! The goblins were conspiring behind his back to overthrow him! He had to do something. The hobgoblins ws inched towards Scamps neck.


    However, his murderous intent was dyed when Scamp withdrew a thin shard of ck crystal. Its murky surface looked oily and seemed to shift as cknail stared at it in fascination.


    You havent been stealing from Mahedium again, have you? the hobgoblin asked in surprise.


    Stealing a crystal was what had gotten Scamp into so much trouble before. The goblin could apparently set them off, because he had been born without a limit to how annoying he could be.


    No, boss! This was given to me, to give to you, from the goblin in the mages house. Its tribute from him. He said no one would be missing it, Scamp exined in an excited burst as he hurried to clear his name.


    Or at least I think so. He doesnt speak good; I think hes stupid, Scamp added as he anxiously watched the hobgoblin.


    cknail took a second to mull this new development over. Maybe he had misjudged the goblin that Mahedium had captured. If he was willing to pay cknail his respects in such a way then he might not be so bad after all, even if he was a creepy little thing.


    It was a rather nice looking piece of crystal, and it didnt look like the kind that exploded. Yes, if the goblin was offering tribute then he would be allowed to stay. Organizing the goblins in Herads tribe would be useful...


    Fine, I ept his gift. He is now one of my minions, like-ss you, the hobgoblin announced as he took the crystal from Scamp. You both have to keep paying tribute, though. Just dont steal from the mage.


    Sure thing, boss, the goblin replied enthusiastically. Finding good stuff is easy. The humans forget things everywhere, and if you beg they give you stuff!


    After cursing a bad roll of the dice, Geralhd looked over at cknail and Scamp. Varhs wasughing in delight.


    Hmm, what are you two up too? Geralhd asked.


    Nothing, cknail hurriedly replied. We were just... talking about candy.


    Yum, candy! Scamp added as he forced an awkward smile.


    With a distracted frown, Geralhd turned back to his game. cknail uncurled his ws and let Scamp go. Good, the humans suspected nothing.

 Comes the Wolf 4

    Comes the Wolf 4


    It only took a few minutes for Saeter toe back. After shooing Geralhd and Varhs away from his campsite, the old scout led cknail off into the bush again. Herad wanted them to watch the enemy and make sure they didnt circle around, so that was what they were going to do.


    The hobgoblin and his master took the path at the back of the camp and then circled around through the woods towards Werricks nks. They moved stealthily through the trees. With the enemy so close, the green maze of trees that encircled them was even more dangerous than usual.


    Its not just enemy scouts or war parties we need to worry about. All this human activity and blood will have scared away some creature but attracted others, Saeter told cknail as they stopped at a lookout point.


    Below the shallow rocky overhang they were standing on, they could see arge stretch of thick vegetation. Neither of them saw any movement down there, so they both moved on.


    It quickly became apparent that the enemy seemed to have little interest in moving off the road. They only ran into a single scout that had ventured into the forest. They trailed him carefully for a few minutes as he circled his own camp, but he never approached Herads base.


    Other than that one man, they only saw a few bandits that had obviously been posted as sentries. They were positioned out among the trees and around Werricks army to warn them of attack. All and all, the enemy seemed more concerned with Herads band attacking them from ambush than entering the forest themselves.


    Lets get a closer look at their encampment before we head back, Saeter announced.


    The pair were crouched down behind a fallen tree. A gullyy before them and it wound its way through the forest toward the road. They had just watched from concealment as a pair of sentries had made their way along it and back to their camp. Many of Werricks men were obviously using the gully as a path because its banks were covered in muddy footprints.


    There will be people watching, cknail pointed out hopefully.


    You will just have to deal with them, Saeter replied dryly.


    Good! Sounds like fun, cknail eximed as he grinned and rubbed his hands together gleefully.


    The hobgoblin then popped out of hiding and looked around. He didnt see or hear anything, so he crept over to the path Werricks men had trampled. Saeter was right behind him, and together, they headed towards the road.


    It was a few minutes before they spotted any sentries. cknail noticed them first. A woman with short curly brown hair and a ck haired man were standing next to arge rock.


    cknail signalled to Saeter and then slid up next to a tree. He peeked out from behind it, as he observed the humans. The enemy sentries had a good view of the surroundings. It would be difficult to sneak past them without having to circle quite a distance around.


    Ill take care of them, cknail said as he stepped forward.


    No bodies, Saeter ordered him sternly.


    A sigh of disappointment escaped cknails lips. That made things moreplicated, but he still had an idea that could work. Why was his master so against having fun?


    The hobgoblin made sure no one was looking in his direction, before dashing over to a clump of nearby bushes. He withdrew a stone from one of his pouches and threw it towards the sentries.


    The small rock arced silently over the enemies heads and hit the bushes on the other side of them. The resulting rustling sound drew the sentries attention. While they were distracted, cknail slipped around to the side and behind another tree.


    Huh, it was probably just a bird, one of the sentries told the other.


    While they were still looking in the opposite direction, cknail threw another stone. This one hit the woman in the back of the head.


    Ow, did you just hit me with a rock? she eximed angrily at the man as she rubbed the back of her head.


    What, no? he replied in surprise.


    Youre the only one here, she pointed out as she scowled at him.


    I didnt hit you. I have no idea what youre talking about, the man answered.


    Fine, forget about it, the woman huffed as she turned back to survey the forest in front of her.


    The man did likewise. A few momentster, they both happened to look away from cknails hiding spot again. The hobgoblin threw another rock. This time it hit the man in the back of the head.


    Ow, shit. You hit me! he growled at hispanion. I told you that I didnt touch you! Dont fucking hit me for no reason, bitch!


    The woman stiffened and then whirled towards the man. Her face was red with anger as she shoved a finger in his face.


    I didnt do anything to you. Youre the one that hit me! she hissed back.


    I fucking didnt hit you, stop lying, the man replied as he straightened up and red at her.


    As the two stupid humans argued among themselves, cknail signalled for Saeter to move. The old scout swiftly made his way over to the hobgoblin undetected. Neither of the sentries so much as nced in his direction.


    Once out of sight, Saeter led the way up the hill until the forest ended abruptly at the top of it. A stretch of bushes and a shallow ditch was all thaty between them, the road, and Werricks army.


    Carefully, cknail stalked over to a thick bit of brush that would conceal him. Then, he nudged a branch aside and peeked out. Saeter moved up beside him.


    Werricks men were everywhere. Some of them were only a dozen feet away. Troops stomped around as they performed their duties. A maze of blue tents filled the road and all the clear ground around it, until they stretched out of sight. There were hundreds of them.


    Saeter tapped cknail to get his attention and pointed out a group of wagons. Half a dozen of them stood off to one side of the camp. Next to them, a line of horses were tied up. cknail eyed them suspiciously for a few seconds before moving on.


    The next thing he saw that stood out was a huge pavilion. Its peaked tip towered over the other tents. And it looked wide enough to hold over a dozen men.


    It wasmon sense that the biggest and fanciest quarters belonged to the chieftain, so the tent probably belonged to Werrick. The huge wolf head banner that pped in the wind above it was also a clue.


    There was no sign of anyone that fit Werricks description around, though. cknail frowned regretfully. He had wanted to catch a glimpse of the enemy chieftain he had heard so much about.


    Another tap from Saeter drew the hobgoblins attention. This time the old scout pointed back the way they hade, so without wasting another moment, the pair withdrew. They slipped past the still arguing sentries and headed back to Herad to report.


    Before they got halfway back, cknail caught an unsettling scent and froze in shock. His master immediately noticed his reaction and reached for his sword, but he stopped short of drawing it.


    What is it? Saeter asked softly.


    I smell a troll, cknail answered just as quietly.


    How recent?


    The hobgoblin sniffed the air again and took a moment to mull it over. The forest was full of animal and nt smells that he had to sort.


    A few hours, he answered.


    It was probably attracted by the blood earlier. Theres no real need to worry, but lets hurry back, Saeter exined.


    cknail nodded and started moving again. There was a new urgency in both his and Saeters steps as they walked, and they watched the forest around them more intently.


    At their quicker pace, it didnt take them very long to make their way back to Herads base. After greeting their own sentries, the pair headed directly over to talk to their chieftain. cknail wanted to take a nap, but his master was in a hurry for some reason.


    Herad was resting in her cabin after the battle. As usual, tworge guards stood outside the door. They immediately recognized Saeter and greeted him.


    She knows youre here and will be out soon, the closer one told the old scout.


    Saeter nodded in reply as cknail took a seat on the ground. He didnt feel like standing; Herad might be a while. Saeter threw the hobgoblin a disapproving look but didnt say anything.


    Before too long, the door of the cabin swung open with a creak and Herad stepped out. She was wearing a loose white shirt that was obviously fresh and her dark eyes looked tired as she nced their way.


    What is it, old man? This had better be important, she asked crankily.


    While out scouting, I got a good look at Werricks camp, Saeter exined carefully.


    Oh? Herad remarked with obvious interest.


    He has most his supplies loaded up onto several wagons that are parked next to each other. Theyre only a few dozen feet from the edge of the forest. Obviously, his lookouts are sloppy too, since cknail and I got so close, Saeter told her.


    You want to hit them, Herad finished for him.


    The bandit chieftain seemed intrigued by the idea but not convinced.


    I can lead a group through the forest before it gets dark. Well hit the wagons and set them aze before high-tailing it out of there. They wont have time to react, Saeter exined to her.


    Herad considered the old scouts words carefully for a few moments.


    I can give you twenty or thirty men, of which only half a dozen can be woodsmen, she told the old scout.


    That will be fine. cknail and I can clear the way, he replied.


    Do you need anything else? Herad asked him.


    It would be nice to have some magic on this raid, Saeter suggested. There is no better or faster way to get things burning.


    No, Im not risking Mahedium, Herad replied. Its not worth any of the possible gains.


    Things will be a lot slower if we have to depend on torches and fire arrows. We might lose more men, Saeter pointed out.


    Then, thats what will happen, Herad told him coldly as she leveled a heavy gaze his way.


    Saeter sighed but nodded inpliance. Herad rxed a little in response to his submission and her expression softened slightly. cknail smiled to himself. His master was actually doing the right thing for once!


    Lets just bring Scamp, then, the hobgoblin mused aloud.


    What? both Saeter and Herad replied in surprise at the same time.


    They threw each other a quick nce before turning back to the hobgoblin.


    Scamp can use magic. We could just take him, cknail exined.


    The goblin can set things off, that doesnt make him a mage, Herad replied.


    All he needs to do is make some-ss crystals explode. We can just throw him at the wagons. It worked against the snake, cknail suggested to his chief.


    He was careful not to challenge her in any way or give her an excuse to take offence. Herad was both very violent and quite dangerous.


    We probably dont need to actually throw the goblin, Saeter pointed out.


    No, but it would be more fun, cknail countered.


    Dont remind me about that, Herad said as her eyes narrowed. If you want to consider this Saeter, then feel free, as long as Mahedium agrees. You can run the mission your way. I dont want to hear anything more about exploding goblins.


    As you wish, Saeter quickly replied.


    Exactly. Now, is there anything else you want to bother me about? she asked him.


    No, thats everything, the old scout responded.


    Good. Talk to Vorscha about getting any of the gear you need. Ill make sure she knows to give it to you, Herad said as she dismissed them with a wave of her hand.


    The bandit chieftain then turned around, opened her cabins door, walked through, and mmed it shut in everyones faces. The guards to either side of it flinched at the unexpected noise.


    Well, that went a lot better than I thought it would, Saeter told them.


    The hobgoblin and his master then started over to talk to Mahedium. It didnt take much to convince him. He was more than willing to give them some crystals, as long as he didnt have to go anywhere nearbat.


    After that, they met with Varhs. He had no problem with Scamp joining their raid as long as he came as well. That was probably for the best, and Saeter readily agreed to it.


    Finally, they talked to Vorscha about rounding up the men and equipment. This wasnt a simple or quick process so cknail left it to Saeter. He went to find something to eat instead.


    A couple of hourster, the raid was about to begin, but cknail had one more task toplete beforehand. The now sated hobgoblin got up and began sniffing around. He was looking for his lost minion.


    It didnt take him long to pick up a trail. Elyias seemed to wander around the camp a lot for some reason. The hobgoblin followed his scent over to a cluster of small ramshackle buildings. Behind them, Elyias was having a conversation with three other men. It didn''t look like he was having fun.


    We would like our money, the first man said menacingly.


    He was the tallest and most physically imposing of the group. His posture was both confident and aggressive, and the other two men beside him were obviously following his lead.


    Come one, fellows! It was just a few friendly games of dice! Elyias replied nervously as he backed away. You shouldnt take it so seriously.


    The money, now! the man asked again.


    His voice was cold andpletely without camaraderie. Elyias grin stiffened and he paled upon hearing it.


    Just calm down, fellows. Theres an army attacking us right now! What good would money do you? You cant spend it until we win, and then Ill get paid and have more than enough to pay you back. There will be plenty of spoils for everyone!


    You owe us now, notter. If you dont have the metal then you can pay us back withbor. If we ask around Im sure someone can find some way for you to work your debts off, therge man replied with a dark chuckle as he gave Elyias an appraising look.


    Elyias clearly found the attention ufortable and he gulped in fear. Sensing weakness, therge man began to reach for him, but he stopped at an unexpected noise.


    Hes busy, cknail told the men as he smiled pleasantly.


    His agreeable demeanor was somewhat ruined by the fact that he was standing less than a foot behind them, and they hadnt heard him approach. All three men jumped in shock and whirled around. They flinched again when they took in the sight of the hobgoblins toothy grin.


    Hells, its the hobgoblin! one of the men swore.


    What do we do? another asked.


    However, the leader quickly regained hisposure. His look of surprise became an angry re that he levelled at cknail. The hobgoblin could tell that this human considered himself to be an alpha, and that he was unlikely to back down. Joy!


    Listen, were going to get our money... the man started to say, before his speech was interrupted by a high pitched squeak that whistled forth from between his own lips.


    cknail continued smiling as he stared into the mans wide trembling eyes. No one spoke. After a few tense moments, the hobgoblin loosened his grip on the mans groin. His sharp ws slid free from flesh as he rxed them slightly.


    Mine, cknail exined as he pointed towards Elyias.


    Go away, he added a secondter. Or would-ss you rather lose all the little bits of meat I can take without killing you?


    cknail letpletely go of the mans privates. A hasty momentter, all three men were t out running away. The hobgoblin watched them for a second before turning to his minion.


    Ha, thanks, I guess, Elyias told him as he smiled in relief. That was just a small misunderstanding.


    Come with me, cknail replied as he began to walk away.


    His minion frowned and bit his lip. It didnt look like he wanted toe, but he wasnt stupid enough to believe he had a choice either.


    What are we doing? he asked uncertainly as he hurried after cknail.


    A mission, the hobgoblin replied pleasantly.


    With his minion in tow, cknail walked over to the corner of the camp where Saeter was preparing to leave. The old scout had over twenty men around him and they were all armed and ready for a fight. Dusk had started to fall so the nearby forest was dark and ominous.


    Why is there a greenhorn following you around? Saeter asked the hobgoblin as he approached.


    I volunteer him for the mission. He should be in the front, cknail told his master.


    Sure, Saeter replied indifferently as he turned to face Elyias.


    Try not to die,d, the old scout told him before turning away.


    I will do that... Elyias replied uncertainly.


    No one was listening, though. Both Saeter and cknail had already otherwise preupied themselves. Elyias groaned and threw longing look back towards the way he hade. He stayed put, though, reluctantly.


    Where are we going? Elyias asked as he looked around.


    It took a few seconds for one of the bandits to reply.


    Wereunching an attack on the enemy, a man with savage scar across his face answered.


    Elyias paled. He looked around again and counted the nearby bandits. It didnt take him long, although he paused for a second when he noticed Scamp sitting next to Varhs.


    By ourselves? he asked.

 Comes the Wolf 5

    Comes the Wolf 5


    Saeter led the raiding party out into the forest. One after the other, they slipped into the heavy shadows cast by the trees. It was toote in the day for bird song, so they moved in almostplete silence. Only the asional sound of a snapping twig or rustle of movement could be heard. Even Scamp was perfectly quiet.


    Soon, they reached the span of the forest where they had seen Werricks sentries. Saeter signalled for everyone to stop and then motioned cknail over to his side.


    You know what to do, he told the hobgoblin.


    Excitedly, cknail smiled and nodded in response, before spinning around and creeping away into the forest. His hunting instincts were already kicking in and urging him on. This was a game he both loved and excelled at; he was born to it.


    The bushes around him were thick and dark. However, the hobgoblin had no problem seeing. His eyes shone with hunger as they pierced the shadows with ease.


    cknails stalked silently towards the spot where he and Saeter had seen the sentries earlier. There was no light or noise to indicate anyone was nearby, but cknail could smell their scent on the wind and feel the presence of prey in his bones.


    Yes, there they were. Two humans were standing next to the same stone as before. They were hidden by the shadows, but cknail knew where to look. Closer inspection revealed that it wasnt the same two people as before. Their builds were different. However, these new lookouts werent any better at their jobs than thest ones.


    Against a human enemy, they probably would have been able to raise an rm long before being detected, but against a hobgoblin they were outmatched. cknail easily circled around until he was in their blind spots, and then he began to creep their way through the bushes. The darkness was his ally, not theirs. They were only human.


    A few momentster, cknails thin cloaked form stood only a few feet behind the sentries, and they were none the wiser. This delighted the hobgoblin and he had to suppress a grim chuckle.


    The pair of humans in front of cknail stared off into the darkness as he observed them. The only sound they made was of gentle rxed breathing; the hobgoblin made none at all.


    Suddenly, one of the sentries started to turn around. Before he could finish, cknail was beside him, his dagger drawn. The unseen deshed out through the night air and tore open the unlucky sentrys throat.


    As the first man fell with a faint gagging noise, the second reacted. He spun around, only to see nothing but hisrades body and an empty ck forest. His mouth opened to raise the rm, and cknails knife slid in under his ribs. The hobgoblin had dashed in under the mans vision and gotten behind him unseen.


    With his task done, cknail took a second to hum a happy little tune while he cleaned his daggers. He hadnt even needed to burn any of the Elixir he had taken a few minutes ago. When his des were clean, the hobgoblin headed back to his master to report in. He had done such a good job!


    After whistling the prearranged bird call to announce his arrival, cknail walked out of the shadows. Everyone looked his way as he approached, but they didnt otherwise react.


    In the middle of the group, Elyias was looking very nervous. The young man was ncing fretfully about and seemed ready to bolt. The dark forest thaty in every direction and loomed above clearly unnerved him.


    Are you done? Saeter asked in a whisper.


    Yep, all done, cknail replied smugly.


    Then, lets get going, Saeter said as he motioned the group forward again. We dont have time to waste.


    The party of bandits immediately headed past the fallen sentries and towards the road. Soon, the flickering light of campfires could be seen ahead of them through the trees. The raiding party stopped at the very edge of the forest.


    Saeter gazed out at the scene before them as his subordinates drew their weapons. Out on the road, Werricks troops had started to tuck in for the night. The tents were all still there but there wasnt nearly as much movement as before.


    Only a few shadowy figures were walking about. Others could be seen around campfires, but most seemed to have gone to sleep in their tents. The wagons the raid was targeting were still in the same ce as well. Theyy only a few rows of tents away, but getting to them wouldnt be easy.


    There were lots of lookouts, of course. A fair number of armed guards had been posted to watch the trees. They stood with the fires of the camp behind them so they didnt lose their night vision. It also made them great targets.


    If that wasnt bad enough, the road was too close to the forest for them to have a very good view. With the sentries in the forest already gone, they would only have a few seconds of warning and that was it. cknail could do a lot with a few seconds.


    We make for the wagons there, Saeter told everyone as they huddled near him in the gloom. Archers will take out as many lookouts as possible and then we will charge. Varhs, make sure Scamp throws his stones well away from allies. The rest of you should sow chaos, set things ame, and then retreat back this way.


    There were nods and everyone readied themselves. Elyias raised his hand as if to ask a question, but Saeter stared him down until he sheepishly lowered it. Then, the old scout signalled, and everyone sprang into action.


    A dozen cloaked archers stepped out of the bushes and let loose a volley of arrows. The nearby lookouts went down before any one of them could raise the rm. Immediately, the rest of Saeters men burst out of the forest and dashed towards the wagons.


    Now, some of Werricks bandits began to notice that something abnormal was going on. Cries of surprise rose into the air as men lurched to their feet. However, the fastest members of the raiding party, including cknail, had already reached the closest campfires.


    The hobgoblin shed at a startled man that was trying to back away from him. His de caught the mans arm and sliced deeply into it. Even as the man was falling, the hobgoblin was already running past. There was much to do and it had to be done fast.


    Simr scenes yed out nearby. Werricks men had been caught off guard, and they were being cut down before they had a chance to organize or even draw their weapons.


    Well, almost all of them. One squad of half a dozen men seemed to appear out of nowhere. They were armored and they drew their des as they charged towards the raiders.


    Varhs saw theming. He quickly passed something to Scamp and pointed towards them. The goblin then tossed the object at the charging enemy. It flickered with orange light as it sailed through the air, before exploding with a thunderous bang. The enemy was violently sted backwards and scattered.


    cknail raced past tents as he closed in on the wagons. That was when he encountered the first bit of resistance. A pair of enemies ran out of the darkness to cut him off. Both of them already had their swords out and up in defensive guards.


    Instead of slowing, cknail sped up. He grinned excitedly as he burned Elixir and felt its effects wash through him. It tingled as it boosted his body.


    The hobgoblins move caught the enemy off guard. Before they could react, he had already batted one sword aside and nked his opponents. The closest man was off bnce, so cknail stabbed at his chest. With his Elixir-driven strength, the hobgoblins blow punched through the armor and into the soft flesh beneath.


    That left one defender still alive. cknail quickly kicked his victims chest so that he could tug his sword out of it easier. It came loose with a loud sucking noise and the mans body flopped over backwards.


    The other defender lunged forwards past hisrades body to strike at cknail, but the hobgoblin was too fast for him. cknail stepped back out of the way and then dodged another strike by jumping to the side.


    Before the defender could try for a third blow, cknailunched a series of attacks. The lightning fast shes pushed the man back until thest caught him in the shoulder.


    The hobgoblins foe screamed in pain and dropped his de. His voice was silenced a secondter when cknails sword cut deep into his neck.


    That was when several of cknailsrades reached him. Without slowing, they raced past him towards the wagons. Two of them had stopped to light torches, and they hurled them into the back of the wagons. The contents of the carts almost instantly burst into me.


    As the fire spread, it frightened the horses that had been tied up nearby. The beasts began to scream harshly and stomp around in a panic. It was music to cknails long pointy ears.


    The hobgoblin grinned madly as he grabbed a ming piece of woods and threw it towards them. He hoped the vicious beasts burned! This was great!


    By then, the wagons werepletely aze. mes roared above them and crackled madly, illuminating the camp for hundreds of feet. The sound of both human and animal screams filled the night, and cknail basked in it all.


    Energy was surging through him in incredible amounts. He was truly alive. The goblin took a moment to let out a loud hystericalugh, as another explosion went off somewhere behind him. He was having so much fun! It was incredible.


    Everyone, back! Saeter roared from somewhere nearby.


    cknail leapt to obey his master, mostly. Instead of heading straight back the way he hade, the hobgoblin took a slight detour. He picked up a ming torch someone had dropped, and dashed into a thick cluster of tents.


    The cloaked hobgoblin ran through the camp, dragging fire and death behind him. He pressed the torch against the fabric of the tents as he moved, setting them aze. Whenever someone lurched into his path he cut them down mercilessly. They seemed to move in slow motion whenpared to his Elixir-boosted hobgoblin speed.


    Werricks men started running away from cknail instead of trying to face him. The hobgoblinughed in vicious delight as panicked men and women fled before him through the darkness. The raging fires that surrounded him blinded as much as they illuminated.


    His de reflected the mes as he cut a fleeing man down, and heughed harder as joy overtook him. The sound off his high pitched voice rose above the mes. Its eerie cadence sounded nothing at all like a humans.


    The rows of tents eventually came to end though, and cknail found himself standing not too far from the edge of the forest. He threw a quick look back at the chaos behind him, and then dashed forward into the bushes and shadows with a smug smile on his lips.


    Once back in the forest, he could hear people running through it in front of him. It was probably Saeter and the others so he headed their way. It didnt take him long to catch up.


    Most of the raiding party, including Varhs and Scamp, seemed have made it out safely. Saeter was leading the group. As cknail approached, the old scout turned to him.


    Is anyone following us? he asked the hobgoblin.


    cknail took a second to listen before replying. He could still hear shouting and mayhem from Werricks camp and someone in the forest behind them stumbling around. He focused on the closer sound and recognized a familiar terrified mumbling.


    Just a straggler, the hobgoblin told his master. Ill go get him!


    Before Saeter could reply cknail was already dashing off into the trees.


    Oh, gods! Im going to die here, all alone in this ursed dark forest. I cant see anything! Elyias whimpered as he staggered around in the dark.


    The young bandit clearly had no idea where he was going. He had been stumbling around in circles.


    Youre fine; Im here, cknail announced as he stepped out of the shadows.


    Instead of beingforted, the hobgoblins voice startled Elyias and he sucked down a breath to let loose a scream. Before he could though, cknail kicked him in the stomach. The young man coughed and gagged as the impact knocked the wind from him.


    Dont do that, silly, cknail exined cheerfully. You need to be quiet. Now,e with me.


    As Elyias tried to right himself, the hobgoblin patted him reassuringly on the shoulder.


    Youll do better next time, cknail said as he began dragging him away towards the others.


    Elyias seemed too stunned to resist, so it didnt take them long to catch up. Most the humans were having trouble moving in the dark and this slowed them down. Night had truly fallen now and there was little light to see by. The slow pace meant it took them a while to get back to Herads base.


    Eventually though, they did slip in through a side entrance and make it back to safety. They were greeted quite jovially by the guards, although cknail got a few uneasy nces.


    Elyias took the opportunity to copse up against the wall. He sat on the ground and began rocking back and forth as he muttered softly to himself. He was such a funny human! cknail really looked forward to bringing him on the next mission.


    Herad showed up before the rest of the raiding party had a chance to sit down and rx. Vorscha and Red Dog were also walking at their boss side. All of them had excited grins on their faces, even if Herads was a lot more bloodthirsty than the others.


    You can see the mes from here! Herad bragged haughtily. I bet this knocks the wind out of Werricks sails.


    The wind also carried the screams andughter here, one of the guards remarked. Hearing that probably sent shivers down more than a few spines. I know it scared the crap out of me.


    There were a few murmurs of agreement and looks directed towards cknail. This made the hobgoblin feel quite good about himself. He was feared!


    We got the job done, Saeter told his chief. The wagons were destroyed and we did more than a little damage besides that.


    Did you get the information I wanted? Herad asked him.


    Yes, the chaos gave me enough time to find someone to ask some pointed questions, Saeter replied. Ill give you the full reportter.


    Herad nodded her eptance as her eyes glinted excitedly. She obviously wanted to hear his report but she was being uncharacteristically patient about it.


    They should have cut back the forest, Vorschamented as she shook her head in disapproval. Camping next to it is just asking to be taken by surprise.


    Ha, these are bandits, not a real army. Im surprised Werrick has managed to get them as organized as they are, Red Dog replied scornfully.


    Well, they might make it a priority now, Vorscha mused.


    Only if Werrick doesnt pack up and leave, Red Dog countered. That light you see over the trees is their main supply cache going up in smoke. They will probably start running out of food before too long, and its going to be hard to get more all the way out here safely.


    Not to mention, their morale has to be down in the drags. They have no reason to believe we cant pull this off every night, Vorscha added.


    We probably can, Saeter said. I wouldnt want to strike them quite so hard, but we could certainly hit them around the edges and see what gets knocked loose.


    As the others were talking, Herads grin widened. The bandit chieftain looked positively delighted. It was more than a little unsettling.


    Werrick cant afford to retreat, she told her minions. But this is still a huge blow against him. I bet the rude bastard is fuming and cursing himself sick right now.


    I think I deserve a treat, great mistress, cknail interjected hopefully when his chieftain was finished speaking.


    He had been very useful, and all the killing and setting things on fire had made him more than a little peckish. Also, everyone was smiling so this was probably a good time to ask.


    You deserves many more than just one, Herad replied as he ced a hand on the hobgoblins shoulder.


    cknails eyes widened from shock and he shuddered slightly. The chieftain was touching him! It was terrifying! What should he do?


    Ill have someone whip you all up a feast, Herad told the raiding party.


    She then withdrew her hand from cknails shoulder, which made him feel a lot better. All the nearby bandits smiled and several of them cheered. More than a few conversations broke out as people began bragging and talking among themselves.


    The hobgoblin slipped away while the others were busy. The humans were being too chatty for him, and he wanted to get some space. They almost never discussed things that interested him. Hede back when the food was ready.


    cknail shivered as he walked. The hot remnants of battle lust were still working their way through his system. He still felt the urge to run and fight in his muscles.


    As a gust of wind blew by, cknail wandered off towards the wall. He picked out an empty expanse and began to climb it. Once perched atop the barrier of stakes, he stared out into the darkness.


    The road before him was dark and empty for quite a distance until it reached Werricks camp. The mes there illuminated the tree tops on either side of the road as they swayed in the wind.


    Only a few of the fires cknail and his tribe had set were still burning, and they were reduced in size. There were quite a few campfires to see by, though. cknail could see the small shadowy figures of people moving everywhere. Werricks camp was still a hive of frantic human activity.


    cknail watched them scurry about for a while. He kind of wanted to go back and hunt a few more of them, but that would be a terrible idea. It had gotten too dark for even him to see properly and going out alone was dangerous.


    No, he would just have to wait until tomorrow.

 Comes the Wolf 6

    Comes the Wolf 6


    Cries of rm woke cknail from his slumber. He could hear people yelling excitedly outside his tent. It was probably nothing, though. Humans were prone to meaningless fear and could get themselves worked up over nothing.


    When the noise failed to fade away, the hobgoblin groaned and threw his nkets off. He then stuck his head out of the entrance of his tent and looked around. It took a moment to clear the sleep from his eyes by blinking.


    Outside, it was so early in the morning that it was still dark out. The tip of the sun was barely visible on the horizon and the trees blocked most of its light.


    With a dissatisfied hiss, cknail turned to look at his surroundings. What could possibly be going on so early in the morning? If there wasnt a good reason for all thismotion then cknail was going to track down the person responsible and make his displeasure known.


    It didnt seem like a false rm, though. All around Herads base there was an unusually high amount of activity. The bandit chieftains minions were all running around with far more enthusiasm than they usually mustered this early in the day.


    To arms, the enemy ising! someone of in the distance yelled.


    Another annoyed hiss escaped cknails lips as he realized what was going on. He had a feeling this wasnt going to be one of his favourite days. Any morning that started hours before breakfast was bound to be terrible.


    There was a rustle from the nearby tent where his master slept, and then Saeter stepped out. The old scout was only partly dressed, but he was already quickly slipping the rest of his clothes on.


    Come on, what are you waiting for? Lets go, he ordered the hobgoblin.


    cknail grunted sourly in reply before disappearing back inside his tent. After making sure his shirt wasnt on backwards again, he quickly dressed himself and stepped outside.


    This is bloody annoying. Why is the enemy attacking so early? cknail grumbled aloud as he strode over to his master.


    They probably wanted to move before we could catch them napping, likest night, Saeter replied.


    This made sense to cknail. The enemy should fear his awesome martial prowess. They would be fools not to. In this case though, it would have been nice if they had feared him a little less so that he could get a good nights sleep.


    The pair headed off to talk to the nearest group of bandits so that they could figure out was going on. However, before they got halfway there someone called out to them.


    Saeter and cknail, over here! Vorscha yelled as she waved and stomped towards them.


    The muscr woman looked both aggravated and distracted. She had Khita trailing behind her, and the redhead looked excited. Saeter kept walking forward as if he hadnt heard anyone call out his name, so cknail poked him in the shoulder and pointed their way.


    When she saw Saeter looking in her direction, Vorscha turned to make sure Khita was still behind her and then starting dragging her over to them.


    I need you to watch this ruffian, the warrior woman told them when they got close.


    Neither cknail nor Saeter thought much of this. Both of them scowled in distaste.


    I can take care of myself, an affronted Khita dered.


    Vorscha simply rolled her eyes and pushed her towards Saeter. The much smaller woman stumbled but managed to catch herself.


    If thats an order then I guess I have no choice. More importantly, whats going on? the old scout asked Vorscha.


    Werricks men are marching towards the wall, right now. It looks like hes really throwing everything hes got into the assault this time. I think your raidst night really pissed him off, Vorscha exined.


    You should have told me about that sneak attack! I would have gone with you, Khita eximed angrily.


    cknail wouldnt have minded taking Khita along for the raid. Unfortunately, if he had invited her then he would have also taken the me when she got herself killed. A much more subtle way of getting rid of the annoying pest was required.


    I just got up. What are the ns for the defense? Saeter asked.


    We were upte burning important things, cknail added grumpily.


    I dont have time to fill you in. I really need to get back to the gate before the fighting starts, Vorscha exined. If youre looking for a ce to be then you should just do what you didst time, hang back and reinforce any spots that look stressed.


    Sounds like fun, cknail replied. It also sounded easy and like a great way to keep an eye out for good looting opportunities.


    Which, conveniently enough, will allow us to keep Khita back away from most the danger, Saeter remarked dryly.


    Vorscha leveled a heavy re at Saeter. Beside her, Khitas face was red with anger and her fists were clenched tightly. She looked like she wanted to punch someone. cknail took a small step away from her.


    Are youining about something? Do you want to join the front line or something? Vorscha asked the old scout.


    No, it sounds like a great n, Saeter replied as he shrugged indifferently. I was just thinking aloud.


    Off to the side, cknail threw Khita a spective look. Was it possible that Khitas uselessness was actually proving useful, right now? No, he must be misunderstanding something.


    Suddenly, there was a loud twang as a volley of arrows tore through the air. The enemy had entered within bowshot. Vorscha flinched at the noise and turned to Saeter.


    Then shut up, old man, Vorscha growled at him with uncharacteristic vehemence.


    Everyone took a step back from her in surprise. Even Saeter had been caught off guard by her temper.


    I need to go, she told them. But before I do, I have onest thing to say. cknail, Im holding you responsible for Khita. Watch her like a hawk or Ill gut you like fish.


    With that said, Vorscha turned and began hurrying over towards the entrance to the camp and the break in the wall there. No one said anything for a moment, but off in the distance the now familiar sound of an army marching could be heard.


    Fine, follow me, Saeter told his twopanions.


    The old scout led the way off towards the same hill they had watched the battle from before. Still somewhat off bnce, Khita and cknail followed him silently.


    Before they could get to their destination, a wave of hot air mmed into them as the sound of splintering wood filled their ears. Something had exploded.


    cknail ducked low to regain his bnce. He shielded his head as he turned to look in the direction the st hade from. There was a huge gaping hole in the wall between him and Werricks army.


    mes danced around the edges of the new opening. The nearby bandits who had been near the wall had been thrown aside and scattered. Some of them were picking themselves off their feet, while others werent so lucky. Shrapnel from the explosion had crippled and killed.


    Well, all hells and damnation. I think we found a spot that looks stressed and needs reinforcing, Saeter remarked sourly as he surveyed the damage.


    There was a lot of damage to survey. A dozen men could have stepped through the gaping hole that had been blown in the wooden barrier protecting the camp.


    Fucking magic, cknail muttered. He hated mages when they werent on his side. It didnt seem fair.


    Wow, that doesnt seem fair, Khita remarked in an awed tone as she gazed at the st zone.


    cknail turned to re at the redhead. She wasnt allowed to agree with him. It made him seem dumb...


    Very little is fair about war, Saeter remarked dryly. What I want to know is why Mahedium isnt firing back.


    Hes over there, cknail pointed out.


    The other two turned in the direction the hobgoblin indicated. They could clearly see Mahedium running over to the wall from his workshop. The mage was carrying a long staff as he moved at a hurried pace.


    Thats another reason they struck so early, Saetermented. Werrick knew Mahedium couldnt always be on guard. Hes not nearly as dumb as Herad likes to say he is.


    Before the mage reached his destination, the sound of shouting intensified and there was a series of metallic screeches. The enemy had reached the wall and battle had been joined again.


    A wave of enemy bandits was fighting their way towards the front entrance. Arge mass of Herads troops were blocking their way and pushing them back. Anotherrge group was headed towards the hole the enemy mage had blown in the wall.


    Herads troops there were still recovering and badly outnumbered. Only a few of them fought back when the front rank of enemy bandits reached the break and began trying to force their way inside the camp.


    We need to help out, Saeter said as he quickly pulled his bow from off his back. They cant be allowed to get a foothold inside.


    The old scout then quickly nocked an arrow, aimed, and let it loose. The arrow took flight and mmed into the chest of a bandit that had just stepped up to attack one of Herads troops that was trying to defend the gap in the wall.


    cknail was already running after the arrow. He pulled out a vial and downed it, as he dashed down the hill. It took him only a few seconds to run past all of Herads nearby minions and reach the fighting.


    The invigorating rush of Elixir being burned washed through him as he drew his de. It came free with a quiet hiss, and the hobgoblin immediately aimed its silver edge at the nearest enemy.


    There was no point in holding back. The hobgoblin wasnt going to dive into a melee full of armed humans without taking every advantage he could get. Humans might be dumb and slow but there were also big and tough.


    Around cknail, about a dozen disorganized bandits were desperately trying to block what seemed to be hundreds of enemies from slipping through the break in the wall before them. Their resistance seemed pointless.


    Then, the hobgoblins de cut down the first attacker. Everyone barely had time to register his presence before cknail moved on to a second. Relying on pure Elixir driven speed, he slipped around the attackers and cut them down, one after the other. Half a dozen of them fell before they could react to this new unexpected threat.


    When they did realize what was happening, the enemy recoiled in fear and shouts of surprise escaped their lips.


    Gods sweet mercy, its a monster, someone shrieked in terror.


    cknail grinned as their sweet fear made his heart flutter in joy, and then heunched himself forward again with renewed energy. Instinct guided cknail as he attacked his enemies weak points. A familiar bloodlust rose within him and drove him forward.


    His de sliced through soft flesh as he easily sidestepped a counterattack. However, for every one of Werricks men he killed another soon took its ce. The mass of attacking enemies didnt seem to be shrinking at all.


    Suddenly, the enemy stoppeding. They lined up just out of reach, and cknail had to stop himself from leaping forward after them. Fury and hunger burned within him. He wanted to fight!


    As he warily watched the enemy, cknail took a careful step back. An enemy officer screamed something, and then the entire enemy line marched forward together. Now there was no space between them that ckail could use or slip through. They was just a solid mass of furious looking humans bearing down on him.


    Shit, one of cknails nearby allies swore.


    Double shit, the hobgoblin added in agreement. His blood-lust was swiftly giving ground to his love of running away from danger.


    The enemy approached, and cknail took a moment to nce over his shoulder. Herads forces were still greatly outnumbered; there were only a little more than ten of them still standing. These werent odds the hobgoblin liked.


    Saeter and Khita were off to one side. They had apparently followed after cknail without him noticing. Both of them had swords in their hands and looked tired from fighting.


    The front rank of the enemy reached the wall. Instead of fighting them, Herads scattered forces retreated backwards, giving the enemy a foothold inside the camp. Even cknail didnt like the idea of trying to fight that many humans back to back. Running would probably be a better option, especially if he could get his master away but leave Khita behind.


    Dont let those rutting bastards take a single step forward! a familiar voice suddenly yelled.


    Everyone turned to see dozens of bandits charging towards the fight, with Vorscha leading them. The warrior woman had taken the time to get armored up. She had a steel breastte and was wearing a chainmail shirt underneath that. A long sword was raised above her head as she ran past cknail and joined the defense.


    Right behind her ran the other bandits, including Geralhd. Theid back man had finally bothered to throw on some real armor as well. There was a steel cap on his head that looked somewhat ridiculous over his long hair. However, he used the short sword in his hands skillfully.


    The defenders were invigorated by the reinforcements. They threw themselves alongside Vorcha in an attempt to push the enemy back out of the camp. Overextended and nked, Werricks troops were quickly forced back.


    The entire time, Vorscha was in the middle of the fighting. She wielded her long sword with skill and power as she urged her troops on.


    Push the damned bastards all the way back. Dont leave a single one alive! she yelled as she cut an enemy down.


    There was a ragged cheer from herrades in response and they pressed forward. Even cknail found himself rejoining the fighting. The urge to join up and fight alongside Vorschas counterstrike was just too great to resist.


    Soon, the enemy was in full retreat and Vorscha had secured the break in the wall. Once her troops had formed up to block further entry by Werricks men, she turned to look back the way she hade.


    A pair of horses was pulling one of the supply wagons towards her. Vorscha saw it and motioned towards the drivers.


    Get that bloody thing in the gap, right fucking now! Vorscha yelled in their direction.


    The drivers nodded and jumped off the wagon. Then, they quickly unharnessed the horses and led them aside, as Vorscha led a small team over to the cart.


    As the defenders of the wall jumped aside, the bandits pushed the wagon into the break and swung it around. The wooden sides of the wagon filled most the space even if there were gaps.


    Almost immediately, enemy troops attempted to scale it or slip around it. They were quickly fought off by the reinforcements Vorscha had brought with her. The warrior woman backed away from the fighting and turned to Saeter.


    Thats one crisis averted, for now. I wish I could say that was going to be thest, she told the old scout.


    How are things going at the gate? Saeter asked her as he sheathed his sword.


    Were holding, Vorscha replied. For now, I cant say much more than that.


    Things arent going badly but not great either, Geralhd added as he wandered over.


    Vorschas lover was smiling cockily as he shily flourished his de. cknail wasnt sure why Geralhd was so proud. The man had fought alongside everyone else but he hadnt really distinguished himself.


    Its still early in the day. Werrick might be trying to wear us down with his superior numbers, Vorscha exined. That damn opening magic barrage of his widened the battle line and has forced us tomit most our reserve already.


    Suddenly, before anyone could respond to that, a chorus of ring trumpets split the air. It was almost immediately followed by the steady beating of drums. The energetic refrain was clearlying from near the front gate.


    Everyone turned to look that way. However, the press of bodies around the gate was too thick. All they could see was the back of Herads forces.


    Damnation, what in all the hells is going on now? Vorscha cursed loudly.


    This terrible view didnt satisfy cknail. He immediately dashed towards the wall to get a higher position. He wanted to see what was going on. Instead of climbing to the top, where he would be an easy target for every enemy with a bow, he hung below the apex and peeked over.


    Hundreds of enemy soldiers were trying to push forward through the gap in the wall where the camps front entrance was. However, there wasnt nearly enough space for them to attack all at the same time so Herads forces were holding them off.


    Above the fighting floated the wolf head banner and it was steadily moving closer to the front line. Right below the symbol a small group of people were positioned. The enemy soldiers moved out of their way and gave them space as they advanced towards the front.


    One tall figure stood out from all the others and strode confidently forward through the ranks. He was dressed in heavy armor made of ovepping steel bands and he wore a steel helmet shaped like a wolfs head. A thick mane of grey hair jutted out from the back of the helmet and cascade down the mans back.


    Therge armored warrior could only be Werrick. The Wolf had finally shown himself and was now personally leading his forces in an all or nothing assault. A shiver of fear seemed to run through the ranks of Herads ouws as they recognized him.

 Comes the Wolf 7

    Comes the Wolf 7


    Dont just hang there, you green idiot! Tell us what you see! Saeter ordered the hobgoblin.


    cknail suppressed his irritation at being addressed so rudely, and then began to exin what was happening to the others. A force led by Werrick himself was headed straight towards the gate Herad was trying to defend.


    None of hispanions seemed to think this was good news. Nervousness and fear was in on their faces. Their reactions surprised the hobgoblin. A battle between chiefs sounded exciting to him!


    Showing himself now makes no bloody sense! Vorscha cursed aloud. Hes got the advantage in numbers so he should be wearing us down, not leading a charge.


    Without warning, a sizzling ball of me burst into existence and shot towards the group of people beneath the wolf banner. Mahedium had revealed himself in a disy of fiery power.


    Before the ming orb could reach its target, anky figure beside Werrick raised a hand. A shimmering wall of force sprang into existence and smashed into the fireball. The mes were battered aside before disintegrating into a brilliant rain of sparks. The shower of tiny lights fell over the battlefield without any noticeable effect.


    Werricks advance continued unimpeded. The huge armoured figure reached the frontline, and his troops cheered as they stepped aside for him. The sound of bandits screaming in exhration filled the air and drowned out everything else.


    The Wolf hase! Forward to victory! they roared excitedly as they redoubled their attack on Herads camp.


    Their annoying voices hurt cknails sensitive ears. Now he really wanted to kill them, if only to shut them up. Also, their cheer was stupid.


    We need to get closer, Saeter eximed in frustration as he looked around.


    There was a small lookout tform around halfway down the wall in Herads direction. There was no way to get through the press of bodies at the front lines so Saeter headed over to it. Vorscha and Geralhd were quick to follow.


    cknail gave them all a head start before racing ahead. They were just humans so he was much faster than them. He barely had to try.


    Down now, Vorscha ordered the archers in the tower. We need to see whats going on.


    After they quickly climbed down to obey her, Saeter made his way up the ricketydder. It was little more than a bunch of branches tied together by rope, and the tform itself was little better.


    Vorscha and Geralhd followed him one after the other. There was only room for about three people on the crude wooden tform, so cknail simply climbed up the wall again.


    From their new vantage point they saw Werrick and his elite join the melee. His banner pped loudly in the wind overhead as the Wolf wadded intobat. The huge warrior had a shield in one hand and a long sword in the other. His heavy steel armor and ornate helmet shaped like a wolfs head made him easy to pick out of the crowd.


    With seemingly unstoppable momentum, Werrick began to cut down Herads forces. They broke before him like the tide hitting a rock, as his de cleaved and knocked them aside. None of her men so much as slowed him down and they began to fall back away from him in fear.


    The tide of battle swiftly changed and the attackers began steadily gaining ground. Herad didnt take this challenge lying down. She screamed out a series of orders from where she stood at the back of the battle.


    Instantly, her bodyguards and Mahedium rushed to her side. With the bandit chieftain at the lead, they formed a solid wedge that moved to intercept Werricks advance.


    Why arent the mages calling up any magic? Geralhd asked as he squinted in Mahediums direction and leaned over a wooden rail.


    Theyre too close for that now, Vorscha cursed. I doubt ourrades would appreciate Mahedium dropping a ball of fire on their heads while they are fighting.


    They also need to keep their defenses ready in case of surprise attacks, Saeter added. That close to the melee they need to be careful, and the first thing on a mages mind is always their own safety.


    As cknails group watched, the two bandit chieftains quickly converged on each other. Without needing to be told, fighters from both sides moved out of the way and gave them space. Soon, only a few feet separated the two parties. They stared ferociously at each other as they converged.


    The fury of all the nearbybatants ebbed slightly as they noticed what was about to take ce among them. Everyone knew that if Herad and Werrick fought the oue would determine the course of the battle. Even if they were fighting for their life no one wanted to miss this.


    Shit, she''s going to fight him herself! Saeter swore. I need to get over there.


    Before he could take more than a single step, Vorscha ced a hand on his shoulder to restrain him. He stopped and red at her. The wrinkles around his eyes seemed deeper than usual.


    Theres nothing you can do. Youll never cross the field safely and what could you even aplish if you did? Youre just going to have to trust the boss. She knows what she is doing, Vorscha told him.


    Damnation, Saeter cursed in reply. I should be there, but I never guessed this would happen.


    The old scout didnt make another move to climb down the lookout tform. He gazed towards the center of the battle and bit his bottom lip nervously. Geralhd and Vorscha also looked worried as Herad came face to face with her nemesis.


    cknail didnt know what to think. The mood of his human friends bothered him but he couldnt see Herad losing. She was the most dangerous and ruthless human he had ever met! He doubted Werrick could beat her in a stabbing contest.


    So youve decided to show yourself atst, coward, Herad yelled as she snarled in Werricks direction.


    The other man didnt immediately reply. There was quiet lull as he gazed in her direction. His steel helm hid his face and concealed what he was thinking.


    Both bandit chieftains stood just out of striking range with their raised weapons in front of them. Violence could erupt without warning any second.


    I have nothing to fear from the likes of you, Werrick eventually announced in reply.


    His voice was deep and serene, without the smallest hint of fear or worry. Like Herad, he had a naturalmanding presence. Both bandit chiefs were still in a way that suggested restrained power. As people fought and died around them, they remained motionless and sized each other up.


    Herad moved first. She lunged forwards and the quiet that had overtaken the field ended. Werrick blocked her de with a casual raise of his own, but before he could counterattack Herad had already slipped out of his range.


    The bodyguards andpanions of the band leaders rushed forward to support their bosses. They encircled their chiefs as they fought each other but they didnt get too close. A bubble of space developed around the fighting Vessels that everyone else avoided.


    Beyond the bodyguards, the other bandits were still fighting. Screams of pain and rage filled the air as violence was done and lives were ended.


    As the masses fought around them, Herad and Werrick dueled. Under his heavy armor, Werrick moved slower than his opponent. Herad ducked in and out of his range whileunching a series of feints.


    However, therger man easily kept her away from his vital points by holding his shield high and with the asionalzy swing of his sword. He might have been slower but his fluid movements betrayed nock of skill.


    Again and again the pair of Vessels crossed des. They moved with super human speed and their ferocity was unrelenting. Herad seemed unable to hurt Werrick but the advance of his troops hade to aplete halt.


    From off to the side, a pair of wrestling bandits suddenly stumbled between the two chieftains. They were too preupied with fighting and too off bnce to stay out of the way.


    Herad saw theming, lunged to the side, and kicked the closer mans back. This sent them both careening straight towards Werrick. With a mighty swing of his shield, the Wolf battered them out of his way. There was a crunching sound as they hit the ground and rolled. Neither of them got up.


    Herad took advantage of this momentary distraction to dash in from the other side and strike. Werricks de shed through the air to block her advance, but she ducked under it and stabbed towards his armpit.


    The tip of Herads sword elerated towards a gap between two steel tes under Werricks arm. All Werrick could do was take a frantic step back and turn away from the blow, but it was enough. Instead of hitting flesh, the de impacted steel and slid away without drawing blood.


    The heavy shield on Werricks other arm then swung around, and Herad had to dodge back out of the way. The twobatants separated and watched each other warily. Neither of them dropped their guard, and their respective bodyguards stepped forward to protect them.


    You cant defeat me like this. You arent my equal, ck Snake, Werrick shouted haughtily her way.


    This isnt a duel, cur, Herad replied scornfully. I dont need to beat you in a fancy fencing match.


    As she finished speaking, the bandit chieftain raised a hand above her head and signalled someone. Immediately, two volleys of arrows rose into the air.


    Two groups of a dozen archers had stepped out of hiding from both sides of the entrance. The swarms of projectiles flew over all the fighting bandits heads and descended upon Werricks party from opposite directions.


    Only one arrow shot towards Werrick though, and he easily blocked it with his shield. A few more ripped through the banner that one of the Wolfs men was holding aloft, but most the buzzing projectiles were aimed at the nearby mage.


    See, the boss has a n, Vorscha observed with more than little relief.


    No one answered her. They were fixated on the events unfolding before them.


    The mage hurriedly raised an amulet. A rippling wave of force smashed into all the arrowsing at him from one direction and smashed them harmlessly aside. He quickly turned to block the ones from the other side as well, but he was a little toote.


    His second st hit the other flight of arrows and battered some of them away, but a lot of them had been too close to be affected properly. Two of the mages bodyguards fell as arrows pierced their bodies, but the others raised shields and blocked the rest of the projectiles.


    Ha, the staff wielding mageughed triumphantly. He waspletely unharmed.


    That could have gone better, Geralhd remarked unhappily.


    That was when ance of yellow energy mmed into the enemy mage from the front and hurled him off his feet. The men all around him were knocked aside as well; their bodies spasmed for several seconds on the ground before going still.


    Mahedium stood off to the side of Herad. The staff in his hands was still glowing faintly yellow. Several of Herads bodyguards surrounded him, and had been keeping the fighting safely away from him.


    As Mahedium slowly leveled the staff in Werricks direction, Herad began tough triumphantly. She pointed her de towards Werrick as a mocking grin appeared on her lips.


    Victory is mine, you arrogant son of a whore! sheughed. Im going to enjoy destroying you.


    The enemy chieftain took a step backwards. It was hard to see under his armor, but Werrick looked tense and anxious. He nced back and forth between Herad and Mahedium, as the troops behind him froze in fear. They knew that the tide of battle had just made a sudden and dramatic turn against them.


    Shes got him! Vorscha eximed breathlessly from the lookout tform. Weve got this in the bag!


    It... definitely seems like it, Saeter observed skeptically next to her. As usual, the old scout refused to give in to optimism or the equally repugnant feeling of happiness.


    Theres no way even a Vessel could dodge war magic at that range, Geralhd remarked. Vorschas right, weve won. Werrick is finished.


    Mahedium may have him cornered but I wont be counting the Wolf down until hes actually dead, Saeter replied. If he escapes then he can juste back with a new mage and reinforcements.


    The fighting between both sides didnt stop but it slowed a little as people noticed what had happened. cknail smirked from his perch atop the wall. He had known that Herad was going to win. She always did. That was why she was the chief!


    Leisurely, Mahedium strolled forward. Everyone except for his guards backed away from him. Without the other mage around to check his power Mahedium was free to let loose against anyone that threatened him, and he had already demonstrated the lethal power he had at his disposal.


    The mage kept his staff leveled directly at Werrick and its tip crackled with yellow energy. He avoided getting too close to anyone else as he moved towards the enemy leader.


    Are you going to try and run? Herad taunted her opponent. You might be able to make it.


    A wide exhrant grin was stered across her face. It made her seem almost mad, or at least madder than usual. Her dark eyes zed with excitement as she watched her cornered enemy.


    I dont think that would aplish anything, Werrick replied tonelessly as he gazed at Mahedium.


    Take that helmet off, Heradmanded him. I want to see your face.


    Werrick hesitated for a second, and then removed his steel helm. He tossed it aside and it rolled across the ground. His face was stern looking but handsome. The grey mane had been part his wolf helmet but he had fairly long brown hair of his own. He looked neither particrly young nor all that old.


    There was a defiant glint in his eyes as he met Herads re. She noticed it but it just made her chuckle. She liked breaking peoples'' pride.


    From his perch on the wall, cknail studied Werrick. He frowned as he realized the man didnt seem all that scared. The hobgoblin considered himself an expert on human behaviour, especially their fears, and this man was too calm. Despite himself, cknail was intimidated and he didnt like that at all.


    Ha, for years youve imed to be the biggest and baddest bandit in all the North. Now look at you! Herad gloated. In the end you fell right into my trap!


    Trap? Werrick asked skeptically. You were simply fortunate enough to take out my mage, and Im not defeated yet.


    As you made your way here I tested your forces several times and interrogated a few captives, Herad exined smugly. I quickly learned that you only had two mages with you, and during your first attack on these walls my mage defeated one of yours.


    Thats far from any sort of grand strategy. Its just basic intelligence, Werrick remarked with noteworthy calm.


    cknail studied the enemy leader closely and licked his lips uncertainly. He knew his humans, they were simple creatures at their core, and he sensed that something was off about this one. What was it?


    I knew that you would eventually have no choice but to join the attack yourself, and that you would need to bring your mage, Herad exined smugly. I knew that without him guarding your back you would be an easy target, and I was right. Here we are.


    Thats certainly sounds like something a second-rate backstreet thug like you woulde up with, Werrick replied coldly. Its as cowardly as it is simple.


    Petty insult will do you no good, Wolfy. Everything that was yours is about to be mine! I want you to reflect on that before I kill you, Herad gloated.


    You have no idea what I possess, ck Snake. Its truly sad that you think that killing me would elevate yourself, Werrick replied. You are as blind and ignorant as always, a mindless killer with delusions of greatness. You arent worthy of walking in my shadow.


    We will see about that, Herad replied angrily.


    Enough useless talk. Are you just going to stand there or am I going to have to make you use that thing? Werrick asked as he turned towards Mahedium and levelled his sword at the mage.


    As you wish, Mahedium remarked coolly as the energy around his staff grew more violent.


    The air was thick with tension as everyone waited to see what was about to happen. Werrick didnt flinch as Mahedium moved.


    The mage then swung his staff around and sted the guards behind himself. They went down as yellow energy arced between them.


    What? Herad gasped as her eyes went wide with shock.


    She froze in surprise, which gave Mahedium more than enough time to point his staff in her direction. She tried to dodge to the side as Mahedium unleashed a bolt of magic in her direction, but it clipped her side.


    A cry of pain andplete disbelief escaped Herads lips as the energy hit her. A tremor worked its way through her body and then she copsed bonelessly onto the ground. She didnt get back up.


    Werrickughed. There was a mocking tone to it as his deep booming voice echoed out over the battlefield.

 Comes the Wolf 8

    Comes the Wolf 8


    There were gasps of horror from the people on the tform near cknail. It was swiftly followed by swearing and action.


    Kings blood! What just happened? Geralhd whispered.


    Hes turned traitor! Saeter roared. That fucking bastard, Im going to kill him!


    The old scout immediately dropped and began climbing down thedder. His movements shocked his nearbypanions out of their own paralysis.


    What do you n on doing? Vorscha asked him in rm. Youll never get there in time.


    Im going to do whatever I have to! Saeter spat back as he jumped down the final length of thedder and started running.


    Vorscha threw out a few more colorful curses and then turned to cknail. The hobgoblin was still in shock. What was going on? Was his glorious leader dead? This didnt make sense!


    Dont just hang there! Go watch his back! Vorscha ordered cknail.


    It took a moment for her words to prate the haze of uncertainty that had filled the hobgoblins mind. However, when her meaning became clear he quickly nodded, dropped down onto the ground, and started running.


    His master was headed towards the fighting all by himself. That was dangerous! cknail needed to go after him. Why was his master always doing such dumb things? Why did he always follow him?


    There was a mob of tightly packed enemies and allies between Saeter and Herads fallen form. cknail couldnt even see her anymore from ground level. However, he could still see Werrick. He was much taller than most other humans.


    Most of Herads fighters hadnt seen her fall, and even if they had they were still stuck in the melee. cknail caught up with Saeter before he reached the fighting.


    What are you-ss doing? cknail asked the old scout. Do you have a n?


    His master barely registered the hobgoblins presence. He spared cknail a brief nce before facing forward again.


    Im going to get Herad out of there! Saeter growled as he ran.


    A wave of exasperation and anguish hit cknail and caused him to groan. That was a terrible n! What did his master think he was doing?


    We should wait for help or find somebody else to do it, cknail told his master. Red Dog must be around here somewhere. This sound-ss like something he should do.


    Unfortunately, the hobgoblin got no reply. cknail seriously considered clubbing his master over the head and dragging him away. That was probably unnecessary though, because the way forward was blocked by a wall of their allies. There was no way Saeter would be able to press through it and into the center of the melee where Herad was.


    Up ahead, Werrick was talking to Mahedium as he walked over to the mage. He then made a sweeping hand gesture in the direction of the thickest fighting.


    With a nod of eptance, Mahedium turned and began shooting bolts of magic at those of Herads minions that were still fighting. The battle quickly started turning against them as the yellow sts of crackling energy thinned their ranks.


    There were cries of despair as the force of bandits protecting the camps gate copsed. Their leader was down and they had no protection from Mahediums magic. Ovee with fear and hopelessness, the remaining defenders broke.


    Large groups of bandits turned to run. Werricks troops roared in triumph and eagerly gave chase. Many of Herads men were in as they exposed their backs to enemy.


    Other more organized squads of defenders held themselves together. Some of these tried to keep fighting and were swiftly surrounded and cut down as their allies deserted them. A few luckyrger groups managed to hold their attackers back and to start a fighting retreat.


    The battle at the gates swiftly degenerated into a dozen smaller fights as Herads forces fled deeper into camp. It was into this mess that Saeter dove. cknail groaned again and then quickly followed him. The dissolution of the battle and the resulting chaos was allowing Saeter to advance.


    There was very little organized resistance to Saeters dash into enemy lines, much to cknails annoyance. Why was no one stopping them? Even if the fighting had moved on, there were still more than a few scattered enemies around.


    Well, it wasnt like Herad or Werricks minions wore uniforms, and most of the enemies were confused by the fact Saeter and cknail were running towards them instead of away. Others were more concerned with settling grudges or looting than with the new arrivals.


    A few enemies did try to intercept Saeter, but cknail leapt ahead and cut them down without mercy. The hobgoblin was adept at taking advantage of chaos, and he still had a lot of Elixir burning through his system.


    As cknails de gutted a man wearing particrly shoddy armor, Saeter ran ahead. They were only a few dozen feet from Herad now, and well out of what was left of the fighting. Those groups of bandits still resisting Werrick had already retreated into deeper into camp.


    However, before the old scout could reach his destination, Mahedium turned and noticed him. The mage was standing guard over Herads prone form. The fallen bandit chieftains chest rose and fell as she drew breath and her fingers were twitching. She was still alive!


    Oh, its you two. I was wondering when you would show up, the mage remarked as he leveled his staff in their direction.


    Die you traitorous filth! Saeter spat in reply as he lunged forward with his de held high.


    A frown appeared on Mahediums lip as yellow energy once again burst out from his staff and mmed into Saeter. The old scout stumbled and copsed. The sight of his master falling enraged cknail. Mahedium would pay for this! He would feast on the mans eyes!


    With an angry hiss and a new burst of speed, cknail managed to dodge to the side of a st aimed his way. He rolled across the ground for a second before jumping to his feet and leaping at his magic wielding opponent.


    Hmm, youre frighteningly fast, the mage remarked as he grabbed an amulet on his chest.


    When he touched the amulet, an invisible wall of air mmed into cknail. It whipped up clouds of dust as it raced across the ground and its impact threw the hobgoblin backwards. He soared quite a distance through air before smashing into a pile of crates.


    There was a loud crash. Pain ripped through the hobgoblins back and his ribs felt like every single one of them had cracked. He whimpered, and his jaw started hurting.


    Even though he was having trouble even breathing, cknail fought off the pain and tried to pick himself off the ground. Fury and adrenaline rose within him to drown out all other concerns.


    This wasnt the time to be sitting around! He had to save his master and the chief! He was cknail! It would take more than a treacherous mage and a big fat human Vessel to defeat him! He was an invincible killer and they would taste his de!


    The hobgoblin hissed furiously and stood back up. He shook his head to clear it and tried to think up a n. He was good at sneaking so maybe he could get behind Mahedium and...


    That was when a beam of energy mmed into the hobgoblin. Instantly, cknail lost all control over his body and began convulsing. His spasming limbs sent crates flying and snagged a tarp. By the time the convulsions stopped he was back on the ground and thoroughly wrapped up in the tough fabric.


    Exhausted, cknail groaned in pain. Every muscle in his body was ame and all his joints felt out of ce. He phased in and out of consciousness for a few seconds as he tried to figure out what had just happened. He remembered it was bad.


    cknail opened his eyes, which hurt in ways he hadnt thought possible, and saw his master lying on the ground a fair distance away. There were several unfamiliar and unfriendly looking bandits standing around Saeter. The hobgoblin tried to reach out in his direction but his hands wouldnt move.


    Just the man I was looking for! a tall armored man announced as he walked over the fallen scout. Youre right on time to see me kill Herad.


    It was Werrick. The enemy leader smiled broadly as he looked down at the old scout. Behind him, corpses littered the battlefield and the shattered remains of the camps walls loomed.


    Saeter wasid out on the ground where he had fallen after being hit by Mahdiums magic. He slowly turned his head to re at Werrick. No one had touched him but he still seemed incapable of makingrge movements.


    A dozen of Werricks troops surrounded him as he looked down at the old scout. There wasnt a friendly face in sight, unless you counted some of the corpses that littered the ground. A lot of bandits had died in the fight at the gates.


    Ive been wanting to talk to you for a while, White Raven, Werrick told Saeter.


    Go fuck a pig, Saeter spat vehemently in return. He was apparently able to talk now.


    The old scout sounded winded and like he was in pain. As he wheezed, the man he had insulted grinned in amusement.


    I suppose I deserve that, Werrick admitted. I did just have you sted by magic. It looks like it hurts a lot.


    Its only a brief stunning effect. There is nosting harm done, Mahedium interjected in exnation. But it certainly keeps people down long enough for more permanent solutions to be achieved, although both Vessels and mages resist it. The length varies but Herad wont be up for...


    With a wave of his hand, Werrick silenced the rambling mage. The victorious bandit chieftain then turned back to Saeter.


    Your old leader has been defeated and will soon meet her end at my hand. Im willing to show you mercy if you pledge your allegiance to me, and I will also to extend that kindness to others you choose, Werrick told him. Ive always been an admirer of yours and having the White Raven under mymand would be useful.


    No, Saeter replied as he red defiantly at his capture.


    I see Im going to have to strengthen my argument, Werrick mused.


    With an exasperated sigh, the bandit leader turned and strode over to Herad. She was still breathing but appeared to be unconscious.


    I dont suppose your offer extends to her? Saeter asked scornfully.


    There were hints of fear and concern concealed behind his veneer of contempt, though. The old scouts stubborn resolve seemed to grow weaker as Werrick got closer to Herad.


    No, shes too stupid to ever learn her ce. Honestly, I dont know why you would even ask. Look at her, Werrick replied contemptuously.


    When he reached her, therge man gave her a solid kick to the ribs. She flinched as the pain of the blow woke her up and then again when she saw the man looming over her.


    What? Herad gasped as she tried to sit up.


    Its rather simple actually. Youre the one that fell into my trap, not the other way around, Werrick exined. Ive defeated your pathetic band and now I just need to deal with you.


    Herad coughed and looked around. Sometime after she had fallen, someone had stripped her weapons from her. Her sword was gone and after checking her clothes she didnt find any daggers. Her actions didnt seem to concern Werrick. He just watched her and made no move.


    I made a deal with your mage. He agreed to switch sides if I presented him with a perfect opportunity, Werrick continued as he held his arms out wide to emphasise his surroundings. And here we are. You led him right to me and set yourself up.


    You fucking faithless coward. I hope demons drag you down to the deepest hells beyond the sight of the gods, Herad cursed Mahedium as she red at him.


    The mage just shrugged without concern. He didnt seem insulted.


    I simply did what was in my best interest. Just like when I first joined up with your band, Mahedium exined without remorse. Werrick has resources and connections that you would never be able to give me. Everything I do is to advance my work, and the Broken Wheel knows the true value of my knowledge and skills. Theres absolutely no reason for me to stay in your dirty little camp anymore.


    Can you really me him for betraying you? Just look at the mess youve made of things, and how pathetic your strategy was, Werrick remarked. Luring me forward? Again? Really? That was how you dealt with the Vessel I sent to test you.


    So what are you waiting for? Kill me, you coward, Herad growled as she collected herself.


    Her cloak was torn and her leather armor was covered in dirt and grime. Her fall had even smeared dust over her face. She looked tired and defeated, although her eyes still burned with anger.


    Im the coward? Youre the one that tried to use magic to subdue me! I simply turned your own ploy against you, Werrick replied dismissively.


    Herad opened her mouth to reply but then she finally noticed Saeter. Her eyes flickered with recognition and she hesitated.


    What are you doing here? she asked in surprise.


    I came to see your victory parade. It could use some work, Saeter replied sarcastically.


    And Im currently trying to recruit him, Werrick added in a smug taunting tone.


    I hope youre both very happy together, Herad remarked bitterly as anger shed in her eyes.


    I havent decided on anything yet, although its definitely sounding like a better idea all of a sudden, Saeter shot back.


    As the pair red at each other Werrick looked momentarily taken aback. It took him a moment toe up with something to say.


    Hes far less likely to run into obvious traps under me, Werrick rebuked Herad. Did you really think I would charge into your base unprepared? How pathetic of you.


    Herad red furiously at her opponent as Werrick continued his speech.


    I suppose Im being uncharitable, he told her. Its not like youre anything more than a petty bandit. I knew exactly what you were thinking every step of the way. I timed my attack so that you would have no chance to question your strategy ore up with a new one.


    Enough with the pompous bragging, you bloody ass. Why am I still alive? Herad asked. Id rather be dead than listen to you expel such rot.


    Youre here because I dont fear you in the slightest. Youre beneath me and I want there to be no misunderstandings about that left in your head, or those of your minions, when you die, Werrick answered as he smiled.


    Just as he finished speaking, a new group of enemies appeared and walked his way. There were four soldiers and they were escorting a nervous looking Red Dog. The bandit lieutenant had been disarmed and there was a gash above his eye that was bleeding. His face was inscrutable as he took in the scene before him.


    When they got to Werrick, one of the men kicked the back of one of Red Dogs knees. With a huff, the bandit lieutenantnded on his knees kneeling position.


    He surrendered himself as soon as he learned you wanted to talk to him, one of the guards told their master.


    Werrick nodded and then motioned for the neers to step back.


    What do you want from me? Red Dog tentatively asked. His voice was full of fear but it was also edged with hope.


    While most the bandits you find in the North are nothing more than deserters and riffraff too ipetent or stupid to stay in the army there are a few exceptions. It would be a waste to kill such men when they could be of use to me, Werrick told him.


    So you want me to join up with you? Red Dog inquired optimistically.


    Perhaps, Werrick replied. First, there will be a demonstration, and then I shall test your loyalty.


    As everyone warily watched him, the tall Vessel gestured and one of his minions tossed him a sheathed sword. Herad flinched as her enemy drew the de, but instead of attacking her he tossed it onto the ground and then took severalrge steps backward.


    What in all the hells are you doing? she asked him.


    Proving a point. Pick up the sword and lets have another fight. You can even have a few minutes to rest if you want. It doesnt matter; youre no threat to me and you never were, Werrick replied as he drew his own de.


    Herad hesitantly reached out to pick up the de and then climbed to her feet. When Werrick didnt react, she quickly brushed her ck hair from her face and then raised the sword defensively.


    A ring of enemy soldiers surrounded her and Werrick. Saeter and Red Dog were dragged out of the way by some of them so that there would be enough room for the fight. Neither of them was allowed to stand and an armed guard stood behind them.


    Nothing happened for a few seconds. Herad seemed to be taking her time to collect herself.


    Then, Herad lunged. Her eyes zed with hate and she snarled as she shed at her opponents head. However, Werrick wasnt caught off guard. He parried her attack, and his front foot kicked out to catch Herads leg. As she stumbled, Werricks sword came around and stabbed her in the stomach.


    No! Saeter gasped.


    Herads eyes went wide with shock as she copsed forward onto her knees. Shended in a kneeling position with her forehead against the ground. There was a savage wound on her back to match the one on her front, and both of them bleed profusely. Werricks de had gone right through her.


    A momentter, the bleeding stopped and thick ck scales appeared. They sealed the wound and reced her torn armor. However, Herad groaned in pain and drew a wheezing breath. Her face was still pressed against the dirt. Her internal injuries hadnt disappeared; they had only been patched over.


    Thats a convenient power but its not going to save you this time, Werrick remarked as he raised his de again.


    You damned butcher! Saeter cursed him.


    It was a fair fight, or close enough, the Vessel remarked with a shrug.


    He then kicked Herads de from her hands. She barely reacted, except to hiss in pain and pull her hands in close to her chest. A secondter, she coughed and splotches of blood hit the ground.


    There was an unexpected ng, as Werrick dropped the de he was holding next to Herad. Red Dog and Saeter stared at it uprehendingly.


    Now you have both seen me defeat Herad both in terms of strategy and in personalbat. I am clearly the better master for you to serve, Werrick told his captives.


    Red Dog nced at Herads fallen form and winced. He then turned to the enemy leader.


    Ill take you up on your offer. I see no point in dying here, Red Dog said.


    Its not quite that simple. First you must prove yourself, Werrick replied. Pick up that sword and finish off your old boss. Only when her corpse lies before me will you be allowed to serve.


    There was silence for several long seconds as his word sank in.


    And if we refuse to bloody our hands and darken our souls on your behalf? Saeter asked.


    Then you and everyone else in this band will die, Werrick answered.

 Comes the Wolf 9

    Comes the Wolf 9


    Saeter didnt say anything for several long moments. He just stared at Herad. She was still stooped over in the dirt. Her breathing wasboured and she didn''t seem aware of what was going on.


    No, I wont do it. She was my leader and she had my loyalty, he eventually told Werrick. Im too old and tired to throw everything away again. Ive done that too many times already.


    The enemy bandit chieftain stood in front of Saeter. The old scout was still sitting on the ground and Werricks huge presence loomed over him.


    Are you sure about that? If you dont join me then I will kill everyst member of this band. Surely there are some among them that you wish to see saved? Werrick asked. You may choose a few to keep as your subordinates.


    Saeter frowned in concern and wrinkles formed under his eyes. He looked unsure of himself as the Wolf continued his speech.


    There is the goblin you took in for instance. I saw your loyal pet at your side but a few moments ago. Mahedium may have swatted him aside but he still lives, Werrick said as he pointed towards where cknaily. If you refuse me then I will have no choice but to kill him as well.


    There was another moment of silence as Saeter nced in cknails direction. His face was nk and it was impossible to guess what he was thinking.


    If self interest isnt enough then perhaps you need a cause to call your own? Werrick inquired. Join me and I shall create a new kingdom, greater than all the others! Together we will usher in a new age where mens actions count for more than their blood!


    Youre nothing but the puppet of a gaggle of corrupt Southern merchants. I know you work for the Broken Wheel Company, Saeter used the bandit chieftain.


    I dont work for anyone. The Broken Wheels backing is simply convenient, for now. When they try to undermine me I will be ready, Werrick replied. I am the one using them.


    Thats what every pawn and tool ever born believes, Saeter replied. He wasnt convinced.


    Join me and see for yourself. Werrick countered. The White Raven fought for Northern independence and was the first bandit chief in the North. I intend to be thest. I shall raise a new kingdom up in these untamednds, one greater than all the others. We dream of the same thing, old man. I fight for what you fought for.


    You expect me to believe that when you revel in torture and misery? Saeter used Werrick. You obviously dont fight for anyone but yourself and your own sick enjoyment.


    I am never cruel without a reason, Werrick replied evenly. We both know Herad did far worse than this to others. Her minions killed, raped, and robbed their way across the North. Countless lives were destroyed by her actions and you supported her. Dont pretend youre better than this.


    Oh, then why did you set up this sick show? Saeter asked. His voice seethed with anger.


    Firstly, to show you that she wasnt worth your loyalty, Werrick exined. Here in the North, it is natural for the strong to rule the weak, and I am far stronger than her. Im simply making this clear to you.


    That doesnt exin why you are making us finish her off, Saeter countered.


    Thats simply so I know if you can be trusted, Werrick replied. If you refuse to strike down your old leader I know you remain loyal to her and will work against me. If you do finish her off then you will be just as responsible for her death as I am. I find it this is an effective test of character.


    Saeter had been slouching but after hearing Werricks words he straightened up and met the mans eyes.


    No, I refuse. Youre going to have to kill me. Ive done enough evil for one lifetime and this is a line I refuse to cross, the old scout announced with determination.


    Werrick frowned and turned to Red Dog.


    Well, what about you then? he asked the other captive.


    Ill do it, the other man answered with a voice full of reluctance and guilt.


    Slowly, the bandit lieutenant got up and reached out for the fallen sword. He picked it up and then froze. For several seconds he stared down at Herad and bit his lip.


    Werrick waited patiently. Even though he was unarmed and within Red Dogs striking distance he didnt seem concerned. There was an aura of self-confidence around the bandit lord that weighed on his surroundings. It was hard to imagine things not going his way.


    Ill be doing her a favour at this point, Red Dog muttered to himself.


    Youll be saving your own skin by betraying her, Saeter rebuked him.


    He promised to spare some of my men as well. Theyre more important than one woman who is already dead, even if she used to be the boss, Red Dog shot back. Its not like she would risk herself for us anyway. Shes always been a selfish bitch.


    The bandit lieutenant took a step towards Herad and raised the sword up above his head. His old boss didnt respond. She appeared to have lost consciousness.


    Stop! Saeter suddenly ordered Red Dog.


    As his captures watched, the old scout rose to his feet. Red Dog froze as Saeter reached out and took the sword from his hands.


    What are you doing? Werrick asked.


    Let me do it. Ill be the one to take her life, Saeter answered him. I just need to tell her something first.


    One of Werricks eyebrows rose as a surprised look appeared on his face, but he didnt say anything.


    Goodbye, Herad. Youve always been an arrogant snake without a shred of decency and look at where it has led you, Saeter told his fallen chief. You should have taken your ill-gotten riches and retired.


    The old scout then stuck the de he had taken from Red Dog into the earth and knelt at her side. He ced a hand on her shoulder and shook her slightly. She turned to look in his direction. Her face was clouded by pain and hate but she was conscious.


    Saeter leaned in close and whispered something to her. It was too quiet for anyone to overhear, but as he spoke a weight seemed to disappear from his shoulders.


    Fuck you, old man, Herad coughed in reply as she red at him.


    A few secondster she coughed again and rolled onto her back. Her eyes were clenched shut and her face was tight with suffering. Stony faced, the old scout drew a dagger from his side. A momentter, he stabbed Herad up under her rips and then pulled the de back out.


    As everyone watched, the defeated bandit chieftain let out a deep breath and went still. All the fatigue and anxiety disappeared from her bearing as she died. Saeter ced a hand on her face and muttered a quick prayer.


    There, shes dead, the old scout said as he turned back towards his captures and pulled the sword he had sheathed in the ground out.


    There was a frown on Werricks face as he examined the old scout and Herads corpse. He then turned towards Red Dog.


    You still need to do your part. The bitch is already dead or dying so youd better get your blow in quickly, he told the other man.


    Right, Red Dog acknowledged nervously.


    The bandit lieutenant reached out and gestured for Saeter to hand him the sword. The old scout nodded, stepped forward, and ran Red Dog through with the de.


    What? he croaked in disbelief as he looked Saeter in the eyes.


    I never really liked you, coward, Saeter exined as he quickly pulled the de out and spun towards Werrick.


    The ranger brought his sword around and viciously stabbed at the bandit chiefs chest. Werrick was caught off guard and a look of shock appeared on his face. He was able to jerk his body to the side and dodge the blow, though.


    Instantly, his guards drew their own weapons and readied themselves to take Saeter down. They had the old scoutpletely surrounded. However, before they could act, Werick raised a hand and stopped them.


    No, Ill do this myself, he told his guards.


    Saeter shed at him again, but Werrick easily stepped back out of the way. There was a disappointed look on Werricks face as he red at the old scout. The Vessel dashed to the side and one of his men passed him a sword. He started to say something but another attack by Saeter forced him to stop and concentrate on blocking the blow.


    Before Saeter could strike again, Werrick took the offensive. There was a slick metallic noise as Werrick pushed Saeter back and their swords slid against each other. The Vessels inhuman strength knocked the scout back and he stumbled. Immediately, Werrick followed up with a sh that mmed into Saeters side.


    Damnation, Saeter cursed as he fell.


    Blood poured from a great gash in his side as he copsed onto his back. However, a smug grimace appeared on his lips as hey there. It was clearly a fatal wound but the old scout didnt seem afraid or angry.


    What was the point of that? Why were you loyal to her? Werrick asked. She didnt deserve it and I had hoped for more from you.


    If Saeter was capable of mustering a reply he didnt have time. There was a distant bang and a thick column of ck smoke rose into the air. Everyone turned to look at this new distraction.


    That came from myb! Mahedium shouted in rm.


    I left specific orders that no one was to enter that building, Werrick replied with obvious frustration at being interrupted.


    I need to go see what has happened. The materials and papers there are irreceable! the mage whined.


    Then go see what happened, Werrick told him coldly. Youre not needed here.


    The bandit chieftain then ordered several of his men to apany the mage. With his escort in tow, Mahedium hurried over towards the explosion and whatever remained of hisb.


    A rustling sound from nearby woke cknail from his stunned stupor and reminded him that he had his own problems. Was one of his enemies finallying to finish him off?


    Shock and confusion had overwhelmed the hobgoblin. His head was numb and hazy, and thinking about the events he had just seen unfold caused pain to stab through his mind.


    Nheless, his self preservation instinct was strong. He wasnt about to lie down and die. He could figure things outter. Right now, he just had to live. There was no way his master was really dead. He could still be saved somehow...


    cknail quietly began to struggle to rise to his feet. As he moved he nced towards the direction of the noise and saw a familiar face.


    Khita was leaning around the corner of nearest building. Her eyes narrowed as she spotted cknail and she raised a finger to her lips to signal silence. cknail stared at her nkly as she skulked over to his side. What did she want? He didnt have time for her.


    Im here to help, the young redhead exined as she pulled out a knife and began cutting him free from the tarp he was tangled up in.


    When that was done, Khita grabbed his shoulder and pulled him up. With cknail leaning on her shoulder, she started walking back over to the building. She was leading him away from his master but cknail couldnt muster up the will to resist. His everything still ached.


    No one noticed their escape; none of Werricks minions nced in their direction. Half of them had gone with Mahedium so that only half a dozen remained, and they were all looking at the pir of smoke that was winding its way up into the sky in the opposite direction.


    Khita hurriedly led cknail around the corner of the building she hade from. When they got there, cknail was surprised to see several members of his tribe hiding out of sight among a scattering of barrels and other equipment.


    Vorscha stood out in front of the others. Behind her was Geralhd and around a half dozen other bandits. Oddly enough, Scamp was cowering behind Geralhds legs but there was no sign of Varhs.


    Here he is. I told you I could do it! Khita eximed happily as Vorscha reached out to take cknail from her.


    And I told you not to try! You could have been killed! therge woman hissed in reply.


    But she seeded, and we need to worry about our next move now, Geralhd interjected. You can drum her downter. The explosion wont keep them distracted forever and the Wolfs men are everywhere.


    Theres no chance of getting Saeter? Vorscha asked Khita with obvious concern.


    No, Werricks right on top of him and hes been badly wounded, Khita exined.


    Then we need to leave. Weve already overstayed our wee. I was hoping to grab Saeter or another scout but we will have to make do.


    Finally, I dont know why I followed you idiots. We should have run off into the woods at the first chance we got! a man behind Geralhd eximed nervously.


    Several other bandits nodded in agreement. They all looked terrified and more than a few of them kept scanning their surroundings. cknail was instantly reminded of rabbits that sensed a predator nearby.


    Have any of you morons ever traversed the Deep Green? Vorscha rebuked them. Without supplies and proper scouts we wontst a day, and Werrick will have people watching the roads for us. To escape him we will have to hike through the forest for who knows how long.


    Fine, weve got the hobgoblin and the gear so lets go. cknail is supposed to a holy terror out in the forest, the man replied.


    I have to agree with that. I know we are still short on scouts but I dont think we are going to find any still around, Geralhd added.


    Ugh, its amazing how fast those bloody bastards disappeared, Vorscha admitted darkly.


    Thats rangers for you. Half of them probably had their gear ready to go, just in case, and I dont me them, someone else muttered.


    While still supporting cknail, Vorscha started leading the squad of bandits off towards the forest. However, the hobgoblin tried to pull away from her.


    My master! he hissed angrily. I need to go back.


    He was too weak to break free and Vorscha kept moving. She only threw him a pitying look. There was deep sadness reflected in her eyes.


    You cant save him, little one. You would only be throwing your life away, she told him. A good soldier knows when the cause is lost and when to fight another day.


    No! I will sneak up on the man named Werrick and stab him the back. I can kill them all! cknail argued defiantly.


    You can barely walk, the woman replied frankly.


    The group of fleeing bandits were slipping through the more built area of Herads camp. They used the buildings and tents for cover as they slipped towards the back of the base and the forest thaty beyond it.


    Chaos reigned all around them. Most of Werricks forces seemed to have chased other parts of Herads forces back onto the road. Anotherrge group had been roped into helping fight the fire at Mahediums cabin. The roof of the building was covered in mes and ck smoke continued to pour out of it.


    There were still a few small groups of Werricks men around but they seemed busy looting. None of them wanted to get a close look at Vorschas party, lest they turn out to be unfriendly.


    I will save my master! Let me go! the hobgoblin protested.


    Im not going to let you go. The people here need you, and I wont let you throw their lives away along with your own, Vorscha told him.


    Shouting interrupted any reply cknail could have made. It rang out from near Werricks location.


    The hobgoblin, its missing! someone yelled in surprise.


    Search the area. He cant have gone far! Werrick shouted in reply.


    The bandit chieftains voice was immediately followed by painedughter. cknail had never heard such a sound before, but he knew without a doubt who was making it. It was Saeter. The noise died a few secondster and there was silence.


    Dread overpowered cknail and his gut twisted up. His heart skipped a beat as he tore himself away from Vorcsha. He only made it three steps before copsing.


    No, this couldnt be happening. He could make it in time! There was no way his master was dead. All he had to do was pick himself up and run to his rescue! For the first time ever, tears welled up in cknails eyes. His ws sank into the ground and as he clenched them they tore up the earth. He whimpered in pain. Why did it hurt so much! He didnt understand!


    Get up! Vorscha hissed as she grabbed cknail and wrapped an arm around his shoulder.


    Come on cknail! Keep moving, Khita begged him.


    They started walking again. Feeling was beginning to return to cknails limbs and his stride strengthened. However, a new type of weakness gued him. He felt hollow inside and he couldnt think straight.


    There they are! someone shouted from of in the distance.


    Damnation, run for the trees! Vorscha yelled as she passed cknail to Khita.


    The warrior woman spun around to see a small horde of enemy soldiers bearing down on her party. Instantly, most of herpanions made a break for the safety of the trees ahead of them. Only Geralhd and Khita hesitated.


    Take the hobgoblin and go! Ill hold up the rear, Vorscha ordered them.


    Geralhd nodded and began helping Khita drag cknail. Together they managed to get him moving at a fair pace.


    The sight of the enemy awoke something in cknail. Now that he had a focus, despair gave way to rage. Someone was going to pay for making him feel bad.


    I can run now, he hissed as he pushed his two human helpers aside.


    The hobgoblin broke out into a jog. He was still unsteady but he could keep up with Khita and Gerhald easily enough. Anger burned within him but he kept it contained by mentally running through sword drills his master had taught him. His master...


    As his gait strengthened, cknail saw his tent off to one side. He and Saeter had set their campsite up near the forest, and cknail veered off towards it.


    What are you doing? Geralhd asked between exhausted breaths.


    The hobgoblin didnt reply. He dashed towards his tent, quickly grabbed his backpack, snatched up one other item, and then hurried back over to the others.


    They hadnt slowed down for him but it didnt matter. It took him mere seconds to catch back up. The diversion had been more than worth the time. Saeter had always made sure that cknail kept a bag ready in case they needed to go out on a mission. Its contents would be very useful.


    The thick bushes that grew at the edge of the forest where the wall ended was only a short dash away now. cknail headed straight towards them.


    There were too many enemies to fight. All he could do was run and try to figure out his next move. He wasnt going to throw his life away in a fight he couldnt win, not when there were so many people that he needed to kill.


    There was a whistling sound and a loud meaty thud. cknails ears perked up and he ducked low as he recognized the sound of arrows in flight.


    Gods damn it! Vorscha suddenly roared.


    Someone had shot an arrow at her and it had grazed her leg. The warrior woman tensed up and stopped running. A deep graze bleed profusely a few inches below her knee.


    Ill help you. Come on, Geralhd quickly offered as he came to a stop as well.


    No, keep running. Ill hold them off. Ill never make it with a wound like this slowing me down, his lover replied sadly.


    But... he started to reply until Vorscha cut him off.


    Go! she growled angrily as she drew her sword and turned to face the enemies bearing down on her. We both knew this was a just a short term thing, lover. It was never going to work out.


    Goodbye, and thank you for everything, love, Geralhd replied sorrowfully.


    After a moment of hesitation, he started running again. Anguish was in on his face but he had no choice but to flee.


    The sounds of fighting rang out in the air as cknail slipped into the bushes at the edge of the forest. Khita had already gone ahead and Geralhd was right behind him.


    The hobgoblin took a moment to peer out through the greenery at everything he was leaving behind. Smoke rose above Herads camp. Somewhere out of sighty Saeter and Herads bodies.


    Nearby, Vorscha held off the first few enemies with a swing of her long sword. She wouldntst long. She was already being encircled by vicious looking bandits.


    There was nothing cknail could do. He was helpless. The hobgoblin choked and his eyes watered as he clung to the item he had taken from his tent. It was the first gift his master had ever given him, his raggedy nket.


    Then, without a word, cknail turned and slipped away into the Green. He would be back one day...

 Interlude: A Perfect Victory

    Interlude: A Perfect Victory


    Weve got the area under control now, sir, a tough looking bandit in leather armor carefully exined.


    He had short messy brown hair and was standing among the cluster of cabins in the center of Herads encampment. There was only one other person nearby, but there was a lot of human activity off in the distance. The asional cheer or exhratedugh rang out as groups of bandits wandered about and celebrated their recent victory.


    Weve pushed all hostiles out of the perimeter and set up watches, the man continued. A few of the ck Snakes minions managed to flee down the road but theres nowhere for them to really go. The reserve force you left a few miles back is sealing their only escape route.


    The bandit then saluted and waited for the armored man in front of him to respond. It took a few moments for a response to be forting.


    And those that have surrendered? Werrick eventually asked after thinking something over.


    The bandit chieftain was still dressed as if for battle, although he hadnt put his helmet back on. There was an unhappy expression on his face. His long brown hair was messy and he took a second to push a lock of it away from his eyes.


    They have been rounded up and await your decision, sir. As per your orders, his subordinate quickly answered.


    Im in a foul mood. Let them stew for a while, Werrick replied. Things didnt work out like Id hoped they would.


    Sir? It was a perfect victory. We destroyed Herads forces and killed her, all while taking eptable losses, the man remarked uprehendingly.


    Yes, thats the gods given truth. However, things could have gone better after the battle... Werrick mused to himself. I had my eye on recruiting a few more useful pieces.


    Yes, sir. Sorry, sir. the bandit replied carefully.


    Not your fault, Werrick told him.


    The bandit chieftain took a second to look around. There was no longer any smoke rising into the sky or any sounds of fighting. However, most the tents that Herads men had set up had been ransacked as their victorious opponents searched for loot. The camp had quickly been gutted and debris of various sorts now littered the ground.


    Off in the distance, tall trees surrounded the camp. Their leafy green branches blocked the view in every direction.


    What about those that fled into the forest? Werrick asked his subordinate as he studied the trees.


    We have squads of scouts and hunters out to pursue them. Theyre unlikely to get far but some will probably try to circle back to the road so I thought it important to make sure none of them catch us unaware, the other man replied.


    Indeed, only the truly desperate would seek safety out there. The wilderness is far more merciless than me, and even if they make it back to civilization all the North is now under my control, Werrick chuckled.


    As he was talking, a cloaked figure stepped out of the shadows and approached him. There was nothing remarkable about the neer, except that their features were hidden under a fur hood, but Werrick recognized them and gave them hisplete attention.


    You are dismissed, he told the subordinate he had been talking to.


    The man saluted again and hurried away. When he was out of earshot the hooded figure spoke up.


    Lord, I watched the mage as you requested, they announced in a surprisingly feminine voice. So far he has done nothing to arouse my suspicion, although the loss of all his papers in that fire was inconvenient. I had hoped to go through his correspondence.


    I think that fire hurt him far more than it did us, Zelena, Werrick replied. It also changes nothing really. We will simply have to be cautious in case he has struck additional bargains with the Broken Wheel behind our backs.


    I will remain vignt, my lord, Zelena replied as she pushed her hood back to reveal her long blond hair and elegant looks.


    Her blue eyes gazed down submissively but they still shone with intelligence. Her every movement was calcted and controlled.


    I know you will. It was very reassuring to have you there during the battle. I wouldnt have wanted to actually put myself under that traitors power, Werrick told her.


    He could not have harmed you. I had defenses ready to neutralize anything he could have cast, Zelena exined as she held up her hands.


    The sleeves of her thick coat slipped down to reveal a pair of delicate looking golden gauntlets. They were exquisitely crafted and fit her petite hands snugly. Symbols ordained the metallic surfaces andrge crystals had been set into the palms.


    Oh, I dont doubt your abilities as a mage bodyguard. Mahedium would never have known what hit him if he had tried to back out on our bargain, Werrick told her confidently.


    We should kill that man now that we no longer need him, Zelena replied as she scowled in distaste. It is dangerous to associate with a dark mage such as him. Nothing good wille of drawing the attention of the guilds. They are ruthless in protecting their secrets.


    You dont think his research will be useful? Werrick asked her. I would have thought youd wee a new source of mana stone.


    I can buy new ones on the ck market or from my connections, and his dealings with the Broken Wheel concern me, she replied.


    Perhaps, but I also have ns for our renegade alchemist and the magic he can provide us. The mage guilds are a long ways from here and care little about the North, Werrick countered. If he betrays us you can kill him, though.


    There was a disapproving scowl on Zelenas face but she nodded in eptance. Werrick was amused by her reaction and smiled.


    I will make sure he has no chance to work against you, lord, she observed withplete confidence. His understanding of magic is deep but he is a floundering novice when ites to conspiracy and subtle manoeuvrings.


    Thats what you said about Herad when you went to Daggerpoint, and we both know how that turned out, he replied.


    She had resources and allies I did not suspect, the blonde exined defensively. How was I to know that...


    It was not a rebuke, Zelena, Werrick interrupted her. I was simply reminding you not to be overconfident. You have already been punished for your failings in Daggerpoint, such as they were.


    Yes, lord. You are right, was her immediate reply.


    Before they could resume their conversation there was an interruption.


    There you are, Werrick, Mahedium yelled as he walked over towards the bandit chieftain. I hope Im not interrupting anything important.


    No, I was just about to go look for you, myself, Werrick replied cheerily.


    There was no hint of suspicion or dislike in his voice, and Zelenas face went carefully nk.


    Hmm, how should I address you? Mahedium asked uncertainly as he squinted at the bandit chieftain.


    Sir or Werrick is fine. How goes the recovery efforts at yourb? Werrick asked him.


    The mage sighed deeply before replying. He looked deeply frustrated.


    As well as can be expected, he admitted. Ive managed to save most of my equipment but a lot of my notes have beenpletely destroyed. It will take quite a bit of experimentation to get some of the measurements and details I lost right again.


    Youll have that time and also more resources than Herad ever gave you, Werrick reassured him.


    Yes, Im very grateful for your patronage, the magemented sincerely.


    There was a frown on his face though, and Werrick noticed it.


    Is something else bothering you? he asked the other man.


    Ah, nothing much. Its just that a... pet of mine disappeared during the fire. Im somewhat d it didnt die, but I find myself concerned about where it ended up, Mahedium answered.


    Im sure its enjoying its new-found freedom, Werrick replied dismissively.


    Hmm, yes. On a rted topic, I hear that cknail managed to evade capture and is now out in the woods somewhere, Mahedium remarked with a hint of nervousness.


    The hobgoblin? Yes, it managed to escape. After everything you hit it with I thought it would have been long dead, but it got up and slipped away, Werrick replied.


    A pity, he was an interesting example of inhuman Elixir binding, the magemented. I would have liked to examine him a few more times.


    So the bloody beast was really a Vessel! Werrick remarked in surprise. I had assumed those rumors were tall tales.


    I told you that they were not, Zelena interjected irately. No natural creature could have done the things it did in Daggerpoint. I was thwarted at every turn by that monstrosity.


    The blonde womans face was red with anger and her fists were clenched tightly together. A shiver of rage went through her as she rounded on Mahedium, although her hands remained carefully concealed in her sleeves.


    Were you the one that created that foul thing? she used the mage.


    Uh, no... I had nothing to do with that. He was already a Vessel long before I ever met him. In fact, his origins are a bit of a mystery. I deal mostly with mana stones, not Elixirs, Mahedium replied carefully.


    I think I would have liked to get a closer look at this cknail, Werrick interjected. Ive never seen a hobgoblin and if he really was a Vessel than some of the other stories about him might have been true as well.


    As he spoke he took a step forward between the two mages. He clearly wanted to prevent any conflict between them.


    I validated most of those reports myself, Zelena told her boss.


    Yes, but many of them were still too oundish to believe, and I judged that you werent the most impartial of witnesses at the time, he replied dispassionately.


    You know I am not one to exaggerate the prowess of my enemies to excuse my failures, lord, she countered sullenly.


    As you say. However, the men in the reports spoke of him like he was the shadow of death itself, instead of flesh and blood. It was like they thought he was a monster that lived under their beds, just waiting for the right moment to strike, Werrick exined. It was difficult to take seriously.


    Their fear was understandable, his lieutenant countered. Even I have never heard of such a creature and it left a trail of bodies in its wake. It hunted down some of my best men and slipped unseen into the strongholds of the allies I recruited.


    Which is why I would have liked to get a closer look at him, Werrick replied.


    Mahedium frowned and turned to regard the forest off in the distance. The trees swayed slightly as a breeze blew by.


    Be careful of what you ask the gods lest they grant your desire, he remarked nervously.


    I hardly think one hobgoblin is much of a threat. He will soon run out of Elixir, as well, Werrick replied.


    cknail was dangerous long before he was provided with Elixir. I personally saw him kill a powerful human Vessel without it. Hobgoblins are dangerous predators and they excel in hunting men and women, Mahedium exined.


    Do you really see him as a credible threat to me, Werrick asked in disbelief. What do you think he will do?


    If cknail is truly out there then I have no idea what he is thinking or nning. He may just wander off, never to be seen again, the mage admitted.


    That would be smart thing for him to do, Werrickughed confidently. One man cant hope to stand against the forces I have built.


    He is not a man, and he doesnt think anything like one, Mahedium countered. If he does resurface he wonte as an enemy or apetitor. We are prey to him, nothing more. The aurochs have both incredible strength and numbers, but that doesnt save them from the lions jaws.

 Into the Green 1

    Into the Green 1


    What was pain? cknail contemted the awful nature of the feeling as he led the way through the forest. Agony coursed through him. His injuries ached from walking but it was more than that. Something had been taken from him, and he knew he would never get it back.


    The absence enraged him. How dare they take what had been his! Herad had been his chieftain and Saeter had been his one and only master! cknail wavered slightly as hate boiled through him. Rage filled him to such an extent that it seemed to want to burst out from his insides like vomit, and he had to fight the urge to scream and rip apart the nearest bush or human scapegoat.


    The survivors of Werricks attack meekly followed behind the hobgoblin. There were thirteen of them, but Geralhd and Khita were the only ones cknail knew very well. Scamp was also following meekly behind Geralhd.


    It had only been a few minutes since they had fled their old base. None of the humans were scouts so they didnt question the path cknail had chosen. They reeked of mind-dulling fear and sweaty defeat. cknail ignored their weakness and forged on ahead.


    Did you see Varhs? Scamp asked cknail as he run up to his side.


    No! cknail hissed back with barely contained fury.


    The little goblins eyes were huge and shiny with tears. He looked both terrified and sad. cknail had to resist the urge to kick him. His pain was so much worse than Scamp''s! What did the spoiled little goblin know about suffering?


    Herad was dead. His chieftain had seemed invincible but she had fallen inbat after being betrayed. He had thought her cleverer than that. How could someone so ruthless and powerful die?


    Very little of her band remained after her demise. Vorscha was probably dead by this point and so was Saeter. The memory of his masters fallen body enraged cknail again.


    Even Red Dog had died. That wasnt fair! cknail had wanted to kill him, and he had been saving him for a special asion!


    The hobgoblin snarled and squeezed his fists together. He had to fight to keep his rage in check. The idea of living without his master was... distressing. Did he want to stay with this other remnant of his tribe? What would be the point in that?


    The humans behind him were weak and useless, especially Khita. Most of them had injuries that made them next to useless in a fight. Leaving them would increase cknails odds of survival, but where would he go after that?


    cknail had never really understood Saeter. His masters pink head had contained many weird human thoughts, but the hobgoblin had respected him. He had owed the man so much; Saeter had made the hobgoblin who he was.


    Vorscha had also been aplete idiot, even if she had been strong. Why sacrifice yourself and look after useless people like Khita? cknail didnt get it.


    It was Herad that cknail had actually understood the best. The bandit chieftain had ruled as a hobgoblin would... just better. It didnt take much imagination for him to know what she would have wanted him to do. Werrick had to die.


    Was that what cknail wanted, though? Killing the human named Werrick wouldnt be easy. It was possible a sneak attack might work but it would be risky and gain cknail nothing. He would still be alone and surrounded by enemies.


    Other strategies would require he seek out help. The humans that he was travelling with right now had been ovee by fear and were useless. It was annoying how cowardly humans could be.


    He didnt want to travel all by himself, though. That sounded really boring!


    Besides, the clumsy humans had one significant use. They served as a meat shield that would attract any attacking predators. That was important, because out here in the Deep Green there were a lot of things that liked people-sized meals.


    A scent reached cknails nose. The hobgoblin stopped and stared off into the trees for a moment. He recognized it.


    What is it? Khita asked him nervously.


    Stay here. Ill be right back, cknail replied as he stomped off into the bush.


    The hobgoblin sniffed the air as he ducked under a branch. After a quick look around he located the source of the scent. It wasing from a cluster of roots at the base of a nearby tree. The tree itself was huge and its trunk rose up into the canopy where it blocked out the sun.


    Come out, you idiot. I know youre under there, cknail hissed impatiently.


    There was a shuffling noise and a secondter a head poked out from the space between tworge roots. It was Elyias, and he didnt look all that happy to see cknail. What a stupid human.


    Elyias looked pale and scared. His eyes didnt meet cknails and he kept looking off to the sides. He seemed both afraid of the hobgoblin and everything else as well.


    Oh, its you. I heard something and was afraid it was some sort of monster... other than you. Is it safe now? he asked nervously.


    A frustrated sigh escaped cknail lips. What kind of idiot hid in a stupid ce like that just because they had heard some noise?


    Instead of replying cknail stepped forward and grabbed the mans shoulder. With a quick tug, he hauled him out of his hiding ce. The young man was too petrified by fear to put up any resistance.


    There are some more people this way. Come with me, cknail told him.


    Thank the gods. I was afraid that I was going to be stuck alone or with just... someone else, Elyias whined fearfully.


    The stupid minion had obviously run off into the forest all by himself as soon as Herad had been defeated. He wouldnt havested a day if cknail hadnt found him. Elyias owed him another favour now.


    It was only a short walk back. Elyias trailed after cknail with a relieved expression on his face. They got a few looks as they approached the spot where the hobgoblin had left the others.


    Oh, a straggler. The bastard is lucky you found him, one of the bandits said as they spotted Elyias.


    Ah, him. Hes that kid that kept losing at dice. Why do we want him? another male bandit remarked disdainfully.


    We already have Khita. He wont be any worse than her, cknail exined.


    The hobgoblin wasnt quite sure why he had bothered going after Elyias. Had it been just out of habit? No, it was because Elyias was his minion. He had lost too many tribesmen today to give up any more. Anyone that tried to take what was his would have to pry it from his wed hands!


    True enough, the man replied. I guess he may as well join us.


    Hey! Khita eximed. Im a better woodsperson than any of you asses!


    All the survivors started talking amongst themselves, but cknail took back his position at the front of the group and started walking again. He didnt care about what they said.


    Um, cknail. Maybe we should stop for a second? Geralhd told him as he hurried over to the hobgoblins side.


    The hobgoblin turned to look at the man. He was standing right behind cknail with a nervous smile on his face. There were mutters of agreement from the other humans as well.


    We need to keep moving, cknail hissed in response.


    I understand that, but we dont even have a n. Where are we going? Geralhd asked him.


    Were headed away from the people trying to kill us, cknail exined condescendingly. That should have been really obvious to everyone.


    Yes, but that doesnt tell us where we are headed, Geralhd countered.


    Out of morbid curiosity, cknail decided to ask and see if any of the humans had something in mind. He stopped walking and turned towards them.


    Where do you want to go? he asked them.


    Geralhd and the others started talking among themselves. Unsurprisingly, none of them had any good ideas.


    We should probably head in the same general direction as the road. Its not like theres anywhere else to go, someonemented.


    But if we get too close someone might stumble onto our trail, another replied. Werrick probably has a lot of men out looking for us.


    This discussion went on for a few minutes before cknail lost patience. He grunted in annoyance and started walking again.


    Hey, where are you going? Geralhd asked the departing hobgoblin.


    There is a ce Saeter and I sometimes used as a campsite this way, and it will be dark soon. Follow me if you want. I dont care, cknail grunted without stopping.


    After a few more seconds of arguing everyone decided to let him lead the way.


    Despite all the dramatic events that had unfolded less than an hour ago, the forest was the same as always. cknail was still struggling to hold back the rage he felt but around him things were almost tranquil.


    They were walking a path the hobgoblin had used many times before when hed gone out hunting. Birds sang in the trees off in the distance. Leaves rustled as small animals scampered around out of sight.


    The canopy overhead was porous on this trail, so the undergrowth was thick. As cknail was stepping over a fallen log, a crunching sound reached his ears. It hade from a fair distance down the trail behind him, and it was swiftly followed by a dull snap.


    Instantly, cknail''s heckles rose and he turned to scan the forest in that direction. He didnt see anything but he knew something was there.


    What is it? Khita asked him.


    The concern in her voice disturbed the hobgoblin. He looked her and the other humans over. Some of them were wounded and they all looked exhausted.


    I think someone is following us, he told her loud enough that everyone could hear.


    Fear immediately appeared on most of the bandits faces. Several of them twitched and threw nervous nces backwards. cknail watched them and frowned. It was unlikely they would be useful in a fight. Their retreat had broken their spirit.


    What do we do? someone asked with barely concealed panic.


    No immediate answer was provided by cknail. He took a few seconds to mull over his options. He looked up at the sky overhead. It was starting to get dark out. The sun had almost reached the western horizon already.


    I will go back and see who it is. Keep following this trail until you reach the end, cknail told everyone.


    He then exined to them how to get to the campsite he had mentioned before. As soon as he was done most of the humans started hurrying away. They wanted as far away from any form of pursuit as possible.


    Are you sure you dont want help? Khita asked.


    cknail snorted disdainfully in reply. Khita was incapable of being helpful. There was no way she could move through the forest unseen.


    No, Im just going to take a look, scout stuff, he lied.


    The redhead nodded and without another word headed after the others. cknail watched her go for a second before stepping off into the bushes at the edges of the trail.


    Before he coulde up with a n he needed to find out who was tracking his party. He had only heard one person but there could easily be many more.


    Luckily, it was getting dark out now. In just a bit it would be too dark for humans to see properly, but he wouldnt have that problem.


    The forest was silent as cknail slipped through the trees. He headed away from the trail and then began moving parallel to it. With great care he kept to the shadows and out of sight. It was important that he not be seen, but he had to keep an eye on the trail.


    Almost immediately, he heard another crack as someone stepped on a twig. The hobgoblin froze and went perfectly still. There was movement along the trail. From his hiding spot behind a fallen log, cknail studied the source of the noise. It was a group of humans.


    Saeter would have found their movements sloppy but it was much better than that of most humans. They moved carefully and only the asional sound betrayed their presence as they followed the trail and the signs left by the survivors of Herads band.


    The enemy scouts were dressed much the same as Herads rangers had been. Most of them wore hunters cloaks and dirty leather clothing.


    Seven of them were visible. cknail didnt think they had any scouts out or backup nearby. They wouldnt want to split up in unfamiliar territory.


    Even without reinforcements, that was more than cknail would usually want to fight. However, this wasnt a normal situation and he really wanted to kill something.


    The hobgoblin considered running ahead and getting some help from his human allies, but he quickly discarded that idea. They would be too scared and tired to fight properly, and they would only give him away. Alone, there was no way the pursuers would be able to detect him before it was toote.


    However, the most important consideration was the rage. Every second cknail watched the enemy, images of Saeter dying filled his head. He had been helpless before, but now this group of foolish humans had left the safety of their pack and entered his domain. There was no one to hold him back from taking his bloody vengeance.


    cknail turned away and headed deeper into the woods. Once safely out of sight, the hobgoblin broke into a run. The trail curved up ahead so he could cut across the forest to get a lead. There was a good ambush spot down the trail he wanted to take advantage of.


    After whipping through a patch of bushes, cknail jumped back onto the trail. He didnt stop moving. He kept running for several minutes until he came to the ce he remembered.


    A huge tree had recently toppled across the trail here. The fall of the towering giant had opened up the canopy but the undergrowth hadnt had time to thicken yet. Except for two more tall trees there was no real cover along this part of the path, and one side of the trail was blocked by a rocky ledge that was twice as tall as a man.


    cknail slipped his backpack off and hurriedly began his preparations. First, he pulled out some rope and started setting a trap. He emptied his backpack, filled it with rocks from the ledge, and then tied the rope to it. With that done, he threw one end of the rope over a thick branch overhead and then scrambled up the other tree.


    He chose a sturdy limb that was over a dozen feet up and stretched over the path as his hiding spot. The leaves of the tree made him almost impossible to see from below. From there, he made his final preparations and strung his bow.


    Nothing happened for several long minutes, until there was a faint rustling noise. The first scout appeared below cknail and began carefully walking down the path. He didnt look up, humans almost never did. It was a weakness of the species.


    Soon, the rest of the party followed their leader out onto the path. The hobgoblin grew excited as he watched them. When they were directly below the trap cknail grinned and cut the rope.


    The only warning the men below got was a slight rasping noise as the rope rubbed against bark. Surprised faces looked up just in time to see the sack of rocks drop on top of them.


    Cries of pain were quickly followed by a sickening crunch as the heavy weight smashed into two men standing in the middle of the enemy formation. It knocked one man aside and hit the other dead on, crushing him.


    The other humans panicked and threw themselves to the sides, away from the danger. cknail didnt give them time to recover or figure out what was happening. He already had his bow drawn back and immediately let loose an arrow. It sank into one of the scouts backs.


    The twang of the bow was muffled by themotion caused by the first attack. It took several moments for the hobgoblins enemies to realize another one of theirrades had fallen and how.


    Ambush! To cover! a hooded scout ordered as he dove off the path and into some bushes.


    His fellows were quick to scatter and seek the closest cover as well. None of them seemed to know where they were being attacked from but they knew the general direction from which the arrow hade.


    The man that had been knocked aside by cknails trap was trying to get to his feet. He was struggling and had obviously been badly hurt. cknail reloaded his bow and shot him in the back. The man flopped down back onto the ground and went limp.


    There were no more easy targets, so the hobgoblin dropped his bow and dashed further out onto the tree limp he had been perched on. He jumped off the branch, caught another one, and then threw himself sideways.


    Branches whirred past cknail as he flew through the air andnded on an unsuspecting enemys back. The hobgoblin was not wearing boots so that he could climb easier. The long ws on his hands and feet sank into the mans clothes and then the flesh beneath.


    There was a shrill scream of pain as the man copsed under cknails weight. A shock went through the hobgoblins arms as they both hit the ground, but the hobgoblin caught himself. Without hesitation, he quickly drew his knife, reached around, and cut the stunned mans throat.


    There were three enemies left, and they were scattered around the ambush site. This was going to be easy! Bloodlust rose within the hobgoblin and tinted his vision red. He almost spasmed with the need to bite and tear into his prey. It was time to make his enemies pay for what they had done.

 Into the Green 2

    Into the Green 2


    cknail rose up from atop the corpse of the enemy scout whose neck he had just slit. The salty scent of blood was in the air as the crimson liquid seeped into the ground. Without a word, heunched himself towards his next victim. There were still three of Werricks minions scattered around the area.


    A cracking noise revealed someone moving behind a tree up ahead. As cknail dashed across the ground, he drew his sword. It came loose with an eager hiss, as if anticipating the spilling of blood.


    A bearded human peeked out from behind the tree. He was an older man with untidy brown hair, and there was a tense look on his face.


    Instantly, cknail leapt forward and shed at the human. The mans eyes went wide and he quickly disappeared back behind cover.


    A predatory growl escaped cknails lips, but he didnt give chase. Instead, he threw himself the other way. He dashed around the opposite side of the tree trunk, towards the mans back. His ws sunk into earth and tree roots as he moved.


    Bloody hells! the bearded man yelled as he turned and realized what had happened.


    His back was exposed. He had drawn his de but it was useless since he was facing the wrong direction. His eyes widened in terrified helplessness, as the lightning quick hobgoblin closed the distance and stabbed him in the side. The de sank deep into flesh before grinding against bone anding to a halt.


    That left just two humans. cknailughed as he tugged his sword free, and his voice echoed eerily through the trees. Behind him, the bearded man fell like a puppet whose strings had been cut.


    What in all the hells is going on here? What is this? a panicked voice shouted from off to one side.


    Its him, the monster! someone eximed in reply. The reaper of Daggerpoint!


    The fearful tone caused an excited shiver to go down cknails spine. The sound was full of weakness to be exploited. The hobgoblin licked his lips eagerly. He could practically taste their terror, and it was sweet and satisfying. It quenched a need.


    Thest two humans were on the other side of the path and hiding behind a fallen log. There would be no benefit in giving his prey time to think and collect themselves, so cknail darted towards them and onto the trail.


    Just as he had reached the center of the path, a hooded figure rose and aimed a short bow at him. Sunlight reflected off the steel tip of the nocked arrow. It was aimed directly at cknails face, but the hobgoblin ignored it. Unflinchingly, he stared directly into the archers eyes and kept running straight.


    Time flowed slowly as cknail moved. His muscles were as taut as a coiled snakes as he prepared. His eyes glowed with hunger and hate as they focusedpletely on the enemy.


    The archer was a tough looking human woman with short brown hair and a crooked nose. Her eyes shimmered with fear but they also held steely determination. One well ced arrow would turn the tide of the fight.


    The womans gaze rxed, and the tension left her face for a moment as practiced calm took over. The arrow flew free as the archers fingers let it go, but cknail had already dived to the side. He had seen his opponents expression change and known what it meant.


    The projectile missed the hobgoblin entirely and shot off into the forest.


    Mine! cknail growled triumphantly as he leapt forward and raised his de.


    The archer jumped back and dropped her bow. She reached for the de at her side, but she wasnt quick enough. cknails sword cut into his opponents exposed arm and drew blood. It wasnt a deep cut but the archer stumbled back and lost her grip on the de she was drawing.


    Immediately, cknail swung his sword around again, but his attack was interrupted. There was a rustling of leaves, as thest enemy ranger rose up from his nearby hiding spot and attacked with a swing of his own de. The hobgoblin was forced to dodge out of the way of this new attack and bring his de up defensively.


    There was a loud metallic ng and sparks as the two swords collided. Despite his strength, cknail was pushed back by the mans sheer weight. The hobgoblin smiled sourly as he absorbed the force of the blow by jumping backwards. He didnt like being pressed back by a human fatty.


    Damnation, its really him! the new attacker cursed as he looked at cknail.


    He was a stocky human male that was dressed in the same rough clothing as the others. His long blonde hair had been gathered up into a ponytail, and he had a patchy looking goatee. There was rm in his eyes as he studied cknail.


    As soon as hended, the hobgoblin brought his sword back up into a defensive posture. He met his opponents stares and grinned savagely in a way that highlighted his pointy teeth. They flinched, much to his delight.


    They should fear him! Soon, he would tear them apart for daring to raise their weapons against him and his tribe. Saeter would be avenged! Nothing could save them.


    Im going to chew your bones, cknail hissed menacingly.


    He wasnt actually going to do anything like that. Humans didnt taste very good, especially not the bones, but the idea of being eaten unsettled them in a way that simple death didnt, because they were dumb.


    Its a demon! It talks! the man stuttered fearfully. How can it speak?


    His words amused cknail. The hobgoblin had spoken up before that. This human was a particrly stupid specimen.


    Shut up and fight, the female hissed as she drew her sword. That doesnt matter right now.


    cknails eyes flickered with interest. Her grab for her weapon had been clumsy, probably because her main hand had been wounded and she was using her weaker one.


    The man took a step forward. Immediately, cknail circled around away from him and towards the woman. She was obviously the weaker of the two.


    Cover me, she told herpanion as she tried to step back.


    However, cknail didnt give them chance to coordinate. He dashed forwards and jumped onto a nearby log. It was a massive fallen tree trunk and slippery with moss but cknails exposed ws gripped the bark without any problems.


    Before his opponents could react, he sprinted along its length for a second before leaping back down onto the ground. His unexpected move ced him on the far side of the woman, out of reach of the man.


    Get back! the man yelled as he tried to circle around.


    He was way too slow. cknailunched a flurry of sword shes at the woman. She desperately tried to block and parry the hobgoblins blows but was clearly having trouble. Her use of her weaker hand slowed her reactions.


    As he crossed des with the woman, cknail kept an eye on the man. Every time he tried to join the fight, the hobgoblin pushed the woman in his way or circled around in the opposite direction.


    His inability to get near the hobgoblin frustrated the man, and the woman began to tire. Both of them quickly grew red in the face as the fight went on. Suddenly, cknail stepped forward. The woman was slightly off bnce, and a blow from the hobgoblin knocked her sword aside. She was nowpletely open to attack.


    The womans face paled as cknail raised his sword again in one hand. She had no way to block his next strike. The hobgoblin grinned as he stared into the womans terrified eyes. This was the end!


    However, before the hobgoblin could attack, the man leapt forward with his sword raised up above his head. His de came down in a mighty blow that battered cknails weapon aside.


    Instead of resisting, the hobgoblin rxed and absorbed the force of the strike. As cknails spun around, the mans momentum carried him closer. As he staggered past, the hobgoblin casually drew a dagger with his free hand and plunged it into the mans exposed back.


    Humans are so easy, cknail purred happily as let go of the knife.


    In front of him, the man fell and began coughing blood onto the ground as he died. The long dagger had sunk deep and cut into his vitals.


    The woman squeaked and dropped her sword, before turning to run away. cknail sighed overdramatically. Humans were also slow. She had no chance of getting away. Really, what was she thinking?


    With dagger still in hand, the hobgoblin leapt forward and caught the womans cloak. Instead of trying to pull her down, he simply tugged on it to slow her down and pull himself closer. She nced over her shoulder, panicked, and immediately tried to backhand him.


    The blow missed as cknail ducked under it. He took the opportunity to tackle her legs, and they both fell in a tangle. As he hit the ground with a thump, the hobgoblin was tempted to burn Elixir so he could quickly overpower his enemy. He resisted the urge though, since he had very little left in his system and only one vial.


    Dirt and debris from the forest floor was thrown into the air as they rolled. cknail fought to keep his hold on the enemy scout. With a grunt of effort, he pulled himself up onto her chest as they suddenly came to a jarring stop.


    The woman tried to buck her hips and throw him off, but cknail easily held her down. He hissed menacingly as he ced his dagger against her exposed throat, and she went perfectly still.


    Oh gods. Oh gods, no. Please spare me, the woman begged tearfully.


    This reaction stumped the hobgoblin for a second. He stared down the now crying womans face and hesitated. A flicker of emotion stirred within his chest as he studied her face.


    Why would I do that? It would be stupid, he asked her curiously as tilted his head to the side.


    Please spare me! the woman continued to whine.


    cknail frowned and shook his head disdainfully before answering.


    Youre trying to kill me so I need-ss to kill you first. Thats how this works, and I hate you. You killed my tribe. Ending your life will make me feel much better, he patiently exined.


    The suppressed anger he had unleashed at the start of the fight still roiled within him, but it had mostly been spent. Victory was now his and with it came smug satisfaction. He wanted to drag out the fun for a little bit, and was honestly curious what she was going to say. Did she have something valuable to offer him?


    You can have all our gear and coins! she told him frantically.


    cknail scratched the back of his head. That idea didnt work for him. Even bringing it up was stupid.


    I can just take your stuff after killing you. Not having you running around is much better for me, he pointed out.


    The woman stared at cknail for several long seconds without replying. She seemed to have regained some measure of self-control and was studying the hobgoblin carefully now, even though his dagger was still pressed against her neck.


    I can offer you pleasure, she told him.


    cknail considered her words. He had no idea what she was talking about, but he noticed her right hand was now concealed behind her back. It looked suspiciously like she was reaching for a concealed weapon.


    I already said I would enjoy taking my vengeance, he countered as he remained alert.


    But surelyying with a woman would be much more satisfying, she replied confidently.


    Laying with a... cknail mused as he thought her words over.


    Suddenly, his eyes opened wide in shock. A stab of pain went through his skull as visions of a certain woman from Daggerpoint shed through his mind. Even worse than the sights was the phantom smell of perfume. He didnt want to remember that!


    cknail flinched away from the woman and his cheeks felt hot. There was no way he was doing anything like that with a human woman ever again! Nope, that wasnt happening. If it hadnt been for that perfume, he would never have let that smirking woman control him like that.


    As the hobgoblin was working to repress painful memories, he felt the person beneath him shift. His eyes focused in time to see a dagger plunge towards his side. Quickly, cknail threw himself sideways out of the way of the attack.


    The knife cut through cknails shirt and grazed his ribs. The woman took advantage of his movement to throw him aside and scramble back onto her feet. A secondter, she was dashing off down the trail that led back towards Herads old camp.


    No fair, the hobgoblin grumbled bitterly as he jumped to his feet.


    She had almost stabbed him while he had been thinking! Even worse than that, she had made him recall things he had been repressing for months.


    Rather than pursue his escaping enemy, cknail picked up the bow she had dropped earlier. He grabbed a few arrows off the ground as well, and then he leapt atop the huge fallen log again. He took careful aim and then shot the fleeing woman in the back.


    She instantly crumbled and then rolled across the ground until hitting the base of a tree. cknail stuck his tongue out at her corpse before turning away dismissively. He hadnt felt like chasing her down and tackling her again. Her disturbing offer had totally ruined his vengeful moment!


    Why did humans think he wanted to mate with them? Several members of Herads band had mentioned stories about hobgoblins raping humans. They were so fat and tall, and also pink! How was that attractive?


    cknail wanted to rant at the woman for suggesting such a thing, but she was already dead. In the hobgoblins experience, it was human woman who came onto him! Not that he wanted them to. They were perverts.


    All the enemy scouts that had been following his group were dead now. cknail sighed resignedly as he looked around at their remains. What was left of his fury and outrage swiftly began fading away.


    The killing had sated his bloodlust, but he still felt oddly hollow. The meager vengeance he had taken hadnt made him feel any better. Saeter and his other tribemates were still gone and would never being back. The emptiness still ached.


    If killing half a dozen minions hadnt filled the void within him then he would just have to find something else that would. The answer was simple. Werrick was the one who had taken his tribemates. Nothing would be right until that smug human was dead.


    An idea urred to the hobgoblin. Werrick thought he had won, that the battle was over, but that was not the case. cknail didnt like the idea of his future prey feeling rxed and triumphant as he rummaged through the spoils of Herads camp. He would leave the man a message.


    An actual written message wouldnt work because cknail couldnt read or write, but that didnt matter. The hobgoblin knew more than a few other ways to get his point across.


    cknail grabbed the leg of a nearby human corpse and began dragging it. After a bit of hard work and creative self-expression he had finished up. Now the forest path looked much better. There was no way anyone was going to miss this message or misunderstand what it meant!


    Three of the corpses were now hanging from tree branches and creaking as they swayed. The other bodies had been piled in the center of the path nearby. Several of them were missing their heads. The skulls now decorated spikes that had been driven into the ground.


    After looking around and nodding approvingly, cknail smiled to himself. It was annoying that he didnt have any more time to y, but this would do. It got the point across.


    There was a muted cracking noise behind him, so cknail nced over his shoulder. He wasnt too worried. It couldnt be an enemy. It was unlikely they could have sneaked up on him, and they would have acted already if they had.


    For a few moments he didnt see anything. Then, his eyes focused on arge green shape. He stared at it for several long seconds as he stayed perfectly still. It was a troll.


    Oh right, there had been signs of a troll hanging around. Saeter had pointed them out before the battle. Perhaps staying next to all these bloody corpses for so long had been a stupid idea.


    As cknail watched, the huge beast stepped out onto the path and ambled over to the pile of corpses. There was a loud snorting sound as it sniffed them, and then in an impressive disy of strength it reached out with one muscled arm and picked one of the bodies up.


    The troll stared at the body for a few moments, and then it took a bite out of it. There was a series of loud crunches and wet smacking noises as it chewed and tore into the now mangled body. Blood sshed onto the ground as the beast ate.


    This troll was noticeablyrger than the one cknail had seen before. Like the other, it had thick green skin and a mane of dirty brown hair. Its face somewhat resembled that of a very angry goblin, but it obviously weighed several times more than a hobgoblin. Heavy muscles seemed to roll under its skin as it moved, and tworge tusks jutted out from its mouth.


    A minute passed very slowly for ckanil as he watched the massive predator. There was a smile on his lips, because he didnt dare let his facial expression change, lest even the tiniest movement attract the trolls attention.


    After swallowing a particrlyrge chunk of meat, the troll turned towards the hobgoblin and growled deeply. Blood dripped from its jaws.


    cknail had been hoping, futilely it turned out, that the beast hadnt seen him. The hobgoblin carefully weighed his options. None of them seemed to offer him very good chances of survival. He waspletelyfucked.

 Into the Green 3

    Into the Green 3


    The troll growled menacingly as it red at cknail. The sound was full of raw rage and hunger. A shudder went down the hobgoblins spine, and he instantly understood what the beast was trying tomunicate.


    Yep, you can have those, cknail stuttered nervously with false cheer. Consider the meat a gift!


    He carefully took a step back from the troll and the pile of bodies it had been feeding on. Ovee by terror, he kept his eyes lowered submissively. He didnt n on trying to assert his right to his own kills.


    With all that food in front of it, the troll probably wouldnt bother chasing down one small scraggly hobgoblin, as long as it didnt get angry. Unfortunately, trolls were famous for getting homicidally enraged over nothing and killing people.


    The hobgoblin continued to back away slowly, and the beast turned away from him. It continued eating again. cknail reached the edge of a patch of bushes. He took a step backwards and there was a snapping sound as his foot crushed a twig.


    cknail winced at the unexpected sound and his breath caught in his chest. He hoped the unwee noise didnt draw the beasts attention.


    He wasnt so lucky. The troll looked up and its furious eyes locked onto the hobgoblin. It growled, and its massive green bulk shifted as it took a step towards him.


    Fuck, cknail swore under his breath.


    With a hiss of rage, the troll lurched forward. Its mouth opened to reveal huge razor sharp teeth as it lunged towards the hobgoblin.


    In response, cknail yelped in terror and jumped. He twisted around in the air and was already moving when hended. Instantly, the terrified hobgoblin sprinted madly across the ground towards the closest tree. Its huge trunk might get in the way of the terrible beast and slow it down. It wasnt a great n, but it was the only one he had.


    The sound of ws tearing into the earth and growling quickly closed in on cknails exposed back, but his n worked. The hobgoblin reached the tree without getting eaten, and he put a hand up against its bark as he rushed around it.


    cknail threw a terrified nce back over his shoulder to see the trolls charge slow. It didnt want to collide with the tree trunk at full speed. The hobgoblin would haveughed triumphantly, but he still had nowhere to go and he was probably going to be eaten alive.


    Could trolls climb trees? The hobgoblin had no idea.


    Another menacing deep growl issued forth from the troll as it approached. It reached out with one hand and its ws tore into the tree bark as it came to stop. Fury radiated from the beast as it studied the hobgoblin hiding from it on the other side of the tree.


    Go away... please, cknail said as he stared at the unstoppable predator with eyes wide with fear. Im just a little hobgoblin. You dont want to eat me; I probably dont taste nearly as nice as a fat juicy human.


    He was totally fucked. The hobgoblin whimpered softly to himself and his stomach felt sick. There was no way he was going to survive this.


    cknail had seen how fast trolls could move and how hard they were to kill. It had taken arge squad of specially armed humans to take thest one down. This one was just toying with him, like he was rabbit or a mouse.


    So much for all his ns; cknail was never going to kill Werrick. This troll was going to chew the hobgoblin up, and then it would finish eating all the humans he had killed. Werrick wouldnt even get cknails message. It would look like a troll had killed the scouts. It had all been pointless.


    The troll smelled of foul meat and rot. Its muscles flexed as it crouched low and prepared to spring towards cknail. The hobgoblin drew his sword. It was a pitiful weapon, but maybe he would get lucky, and piss the beast off enough that his death would be quick.


    There was a rustling sound as a breeze blew through the forest and shook the branches on the trees. For a second, the scent of the troll was reced by that of leaves and soil. Then the moment ended, and the beast leapt. Its eyes glowed with hunger as its massive jaws opened in preparation to feed.


    Pure terror overwhelmed cknail and he froze. Time moved slowly, as his eyes widened with shock. The troll was fast and its jaws promised inescapable death. There was no way he could possibly get out of the way.


    As the beast lurched through the air towards him, something hit it. The troll was knocked sideways as a long wooden spear mmed into its nk and sunk deep. There was a thunderous crash as the beast hit the ground. It roared in fury and pain from the unexpected assault.


    cknail stood there and watched uprehendingly. He twitched slightly but didnt otherwise move. He had no idea what was going on. A second ago, he had been staring at the open troll jaws that had been about to bite down on him.


    With tremendous force, the huge spear was driven deeper into the troll. There was a snapping sound as it pierced right through the green predator and sunk into the ground, pinning it there. The troll began to roar and thrash around but it was held fast.


    Four arms held the long spear in ce. Each of them was muchrger than those of a human. They were also covered in bark. cknail had been saved by what looked like a mimic.


    A closer look revealed more details. The creature with the spear was undeniably simr to a mimic but also quite different. It had the same shell like armor that looked like bark, but its build was different. Its tall body was much bulkier and had fewer growths with leaves protruding from its back.


    The biggest difference was the face. Instead of eye stalks, it had a head that looked almost like a human wearing a polished wooden mask. Its dark eyes shone with intelligence instead of the dumb ckness that filled those of a mimic.


    The creature was silent as it held the troll down. No matter how much the troll thrashed and howled it couldnt get free or reach its attacker. After a few moments, it began to slow and eventually gopletely still. It was dead.


    Nothing happened for a moment. cknail watched silently. He didnt want to attract the attention of anything that killed trolls. That would be stupid.


    There was a quiet creaking noise as the tree-like creature turned to look at cknail. The hobgoblin cringed and reluctantly met its gaze. The thing was very tall and it had a very big spear.


    However, the creature simply looked curious as it studied cknail. At least, it didnt seem hostile, but it was hard to tell since its face resembled a solid b of wood.


    There was a soft muttering noise from behind cknail. He cringed again and nced over his shoulder. What was it now? Another troll? Hadnt things gotten crazy enough?


    Another creature stood behind the hobgoblin. It sort of resembled the spear-holder, but it was much smaller and only had two arms. It also had a carapace that resembled bark, but pale green flesh was visible in the joints.


    cknail felt his jaws go ck with surprise as he studied the second creature. It sort of looked like a human! In particr, it looked like a woman wearing oddly shaped wooden armor, even if it wasnt really human.


    A mass of long vine-like tendrils grew from the back of its head, and its face was soft and fleshy. There was no mistaking the resemnce to a woman; it even had breast-like bumps under its chest armor.


    The female tree monster met cknails gaze. Her face was serene and revealed nothing. The hobgoblin looked like someone had shaken him until he couldnt stand straight.


    The creature opened her mouth and iprehensible words spilled out from between her weirdly human lips. cknail just stared at her nkly. Her voice was soft and melodic but he had no idea what was trying to say. It sounded nothing like the words of humans or goblins. He hoped this wasnt a test.


    When cknail didnt reply, she turned to her muchrgerpanion and said a few more strange words. He answered her in a deeper voice that echoed like sound through a hollow log.


    When they were done talking, she walked over to the spear-wielder, and he shambled over to the troll and picked it up. Together, the pair then started walking off into the forest.


    cknail let them go. He wasnt going to question what had just happened. If trees wanted toe alive and save his life then that was fine with him. Also, he was still so shocked he had forgotten how to move.


    What were those things that had killed the troll? Saeter had never mentioned anything like them, and they seemed important!


    After a few moments had passed, cknail shook himself free of his paralysis. He was d that he had already repacked his bag and gear before the troll had shown up. It was time to get the hells out of here and meet back up with the others. He would be safer among his human meat shields.


    Without a word, the hobgoblin dashed back onto the trail. He moved as quickly as his legs would carry him, and he didnt look back. It was starting to get very dark out now. Dusk had passed and the sun was well past the horizon. Even cknails hobgoblin eyes were having trouble seeing through the gloom of night.


    The only sound that reverberated through the forest as cknail scrambled down the trail was the sound of his own heavy breathing and frantic footsteps. This didnt reassure him much. He hadnt heard the strange tree creatures approach at all, and they had been near silent when they had left. He simply had to hope that they werent following him or that he could outrun them.


    After a few long minutes of running, and almost tripping over unseen stones or branches a few times, cknail saw a familiar rock up ahead. It was taller than him and its grey bulk jutted out from the ground beside the path. It was the marker he was looking for.


    Off of the path, the darkness of the forest was almost imprable, but cknail turned and stepped into it. This was the way to the campsite where he had sent the others.


    A lot had happened today. cknail had fought a battle, lostrades, hiked through the forest, gotten into another fight, and then seen things he didnt understand. He was too tired and sore right now to even process it all.


    Even if it was too dark out now to see footprints or other signs, cknail could still follow hisrades scent through the forest. The campsite was just up ahead, and cknail was going to be very angry if there wasnt a hot meal waiting for him.


    They had no excuses. The hobgoblin didnt care if half of them had fallen into a sink hole or been mangled by a giant boar. None of his human tribesmen could navigate through the forest or help all that much in a fight, so they had better at least have set up a half decent campsite. If they hadnt, cknail was going to give them such a kicking in the morning.


    cknail stepped out of the forest. Moonlight shone down on the ground in front of him and illuminated the way. Up ahead, there was a rocky hill that ended at the base of a cliff. A small fire burned atop the hill, and it cast a host of shadows against the backdrop of the cliff.


    The hobgoblin had found the rest of his party. He raised a finger to his lips and whistled shrilly in a way that imitated the call of a particr bird. That was the signal he had arranged beforehand. He didnt want to startle anyone by sneaking up on them unannounced. They might overreact and then he would have to hurt them.


    There was no response, so after a few seconds cknail whistled again impatiently. What were they doing? Were thezy pink fools even listening?


    This time he did get a reply. It didnt sound anything like the signal, though. It sounded more like a frog being strangled than any sort of bird call. Still, it was close enough. cknail grunted in annoyance as he made his way over to light.


    The hobgoblin could see a pair of figures near the fire watching him as he climbed the rocky hill. Saeter had used this spot as a campsite because the open ground around the hill and the cliff behind it made it almost impossible to approach without being seen.


    When he got closer, cknail recognized one of the humans as Geralhd. The thin young man was standing with his back to the fire. The other bandit beside him wasnt important.


    Youre back! I was afraid something had happened to you, Geralhd announced happily when cknail was close enough to see by fire light.


    Is there hot food? cknail asked grumpily before yawning.


    He wanted to eat and then get some sleep, not deal with idiots. He looked past Geralhd at the dark shapes that were stretched out around campfire. Most of the bandits were asleep.


    One smaller outline obviously belonged to Khita, and she was very gently snoring. cknail was d he didnt have to deal with her obnoxious personality right now.


    Theres some stew. Its barely ptable, though. We only had one pot, and none of us had time to get proper rations, so we just threw whatever we had in, Geralhd exined as he pointed to a small iron pot that had been set on a stone beside the campfire.


    Fine, cknail grumbled as he walked over to it.


    The stew didnt smell very good, like boiled dried meat and grass. That wasnt surprising since that was probably what it actually was. cknail picked the pot up, sat down on the rock, and began slurping the stew down. As he ate, Geralhd continued talking.


    There was a small cache of firewood under an overhang where it would stay dry, and we gathered up a bit more from the forest before it got dark, but we will have to conserve it carefully if we want to keep the fire going all night.


    cknail didnt reply and just kept eating. None of that sounded important. As soon as he was done eating he nned on finding a spot next to the cliff, where it was safest, and curling up to sleep.


    Um, when you doubled back to check for pursuit, what did you find? Geralhd asked the hobgoblin.


    This caused cknail to finally look up at him. The hobgoblin blinked a few times as he sorted through events in his mind. He had no idea how to answer in a way that was both truthful and which wouldnt invite a million more annoying questions, so he lied.


    I didnt find anything worth talking about, he eventually replied.


    So then... what was all the screaming we heard about? Geralhd asked in surprise.


    cknail stared nkly at the thin bandit for a second, and then his gaze shifted to the mans tiny pink ears. Humans had such terrible hearing that the hobgoblin had just assumed they hadnt heard anything.


    But then I ran into some of Werricks men and killed them, cknail exined reluctantly. You dont need to worry about them. Were safe now.


    And the bestial roars? Geralhd asked next.


    I stepped on a pinecone. It really hurt, cknail replied deadpan.


    This answer clearly didnt satisfy Geralhd, but there was no way the hobgoblin was going to admit to even seeing a troll. It would bring up too many other questions he didnt want to answer, and the humans didnt need more reasons to be afraid and useless.


    cknail ignored Geralhds questions and told the man he was going to sleep. Reluctantly, Geralhd left the hobgoblin alone and went back to take his turn on watch.


    When he was gone, cknail found an empty spot and unpacked his nket. The familiar softness of the clothforted and rxed him. He yawned as he spread it over the hard ground and theny down. It smelled like home.


    The stars shone brightly in the clear sky up above, but a lot of them werent visible. The shadowy cliff loomed to one side, and wall of trees rose on the other. It was almost like cknail was looking up from the bottom of a deep pit or well.


    The only sound to be heard was quiet human snoring and a faint rustling off in the forest somewhere. cknail stared at the stars as his body rxed. However, for some reason, one corner of his mind couldnt let go of consciousness. It wasnt a problem hed ever had before.


    He was... troubled. He couldnt stop wondering about the future and thinking about the past. cknail was used to living in the present, so this feeling bothered him.


    It was like the illusion of the pit that surrounded him was real, instead of just in his mind. He had fallen into darkness. What did he do now that he had no master? What did he do without Saeter?


    The howl of wolves echoed from off in the distance. Their sound was faint, even to his amazing ears, but easily recognisable. cknail listened and a wave of memories washed over him.


    Saeter had found the sound beautiful. He had said it was the sound of the North. cknail didnt feel the same way. The howling reminded him of how vast the Green was, and of all the strange things that lived within in it.


    Wolves were just dogs and they were associated with his enemy. One day, Werrick would die at his hands. The hobgoblin focused on that thought until he drifted off to sleep.

 Into the Green 4

    Into the Green 4


    The early morning twitter of cheerful birds filled the air. cknail was repacking his bag and preparing to start hiking again. All around him, the other remnants of Herads band were getting ready to move as well. When you were being hunted down by an army it was important to rise early and keep moving.


    Over a quick breakfast, the bandits had decided to keep following the trail they were on as it paralleled the road north. They didnt have a lot of options. Heading back would be suicide and there was nothing for them to the South. Most of them were wanted men and the others didnt have the papers necessary to avoid being press ganged into the army.


    The n was to use the trails for a few more days and then slip back onto the main road. The forest path kept them hidden but it was also less direct and slower going.


    The road would take them to Daggerpoint or another bandit friendly outpost. Once safely there they would disband, disappear, and hopefully join up with other bands. Most bandit chieftains didnt ask their new recruits too many questions, and Werrick had no reason to put much effort into chasing down a few ragged and powerless survivors.


    This n didnt sit well with cknail, but he couldnt argue against it. It was frustrating, but he had no idea what he should do now. Would another tribe of humans take him in? Did he even want to join up with anyone?


    Well, if he didnt find a new tribe to join, he could always just do what he had done thest time he had gone to Daggerpoint. Living on the streets, stealing food, and killing people for fun and profit hadnt been so bad. A hobgoblin could do much worse.


    cknails idly thoughts were interrupted by Geralhd walking over to him. The man seemed to be muttering to himself. All that morning, the thin bandit had been looking sickly and depressed.


    Ah, cknail. How are you doing? he asked the hobgoblin. We face a cruel new dawn today.


    Ive been better, cknail replied as he eyed the young man critically. Did he want something?


    Those are my general feelings as well... I woke up expecting Vorscha to be lying next to me, and then I realized that her presence would be ever denied me now, Geralhd mused sorrowfully.


    This wasnt something that cknail wanted to hear, or think about. It brought to mind his own recent losses. There was nothing he could do about that right now, so he was trying to avoid thinking about it.


    You should be getting ready to move, the hobgoblin pointed out sourly.


    Youre right, but I just felt like talking to someone, and no one else here seemed like much of a listener, Geralhd admitted.


    cknail wasnt sure why the quality of his hearing mattered. He was confused for a second and his hesitation allowed Geralhd to keep talking uninterrupted.


    We had aplex rtionship based on mutual self interest, but Im going to miss her deeply. She deserved better...


    cknail didnt care. The man could talk but that didnt mean the hobgoblin had to listen. Hopefully, when they started moving Geralhd would grow too tired to keep talking.


    Having conversations about your feelings was dumb. If you were happy you should continue doing the things that made you happy, and if you were mad then you should stab the person that had made you upset. That was the system that had always worked for cknail.


    Admittedly, sadness was proving a little moreplicated, but stabbing someone still seemed like a promising solution. It probably just had to be the right person, and if Geralhd didnt shut up it might be him.


    Even Scamp looks mncholy, Geralhd added as he pointed towards where the goblin was sitting. He is probably missing Varhs. Its all rather quite distressing.


    The motion drew cknails attention. He stared at where the goblin was sitting on a rock. The little menace was wearing his usual shorts and had arge knapsack on his back. cknail immediately noticed one huge problem, though.


    Thats not Scamp, the hobgoblin observed warily.


    What? Geralhd replied in surprise as cknail stalked over to the goblin.


    It only took cknail a few moments to recognize the pale skinned little creature with ck hair. It was definitely Mahediums pet, but what was it doing here?


    The goblin calmly met cknails suspicious gaze, as the hobgoblin stomped his way. There was a rxed look on its face which annoyed cknail. How dare the little creepe into the hobgoblins camp without asking permission or offering tribute!


    What are you doing here? cknail asked the goblin as he snarled down at it.


    Following you, great one, the creature replied politely.


    This response startled cknail and threw him off track. He hadnt even known the goblin could talk! Still, it was being properly respectful, at least.


    Where did you learn human speak? he enquired in shock.


    I listen to people and talk to Scamp, the goblin answered simply.


    That made sense, but it was also deeply suspicious! cknail didnt like the idea of the little goblin sitting in a dark corner while secretly listening to everything everyone said. Worse, he had probably been learning things, on purpose. What kind of goblin did that? Learning was something you should only do when you had no other choice!


    Where is Scamp? Geralhd asked as he walked up beside cknail. Nothing happened to him, right?


    Over there, the goblin replied neutrally as he pointed towards the forest.


    Sure enough, a small green figure could be seen walking along the tree line. The goblin appeared to be rooting through the underbrush for bugs or other sources of food.


    That was normal behaviour for Scamp, but there was something very odd about Mahediums goblin, and cknail intended to put him in his ce. He was the hobgoblin here and this goblin was too arrogant.


    Fine, but whats in the sack? cknail asked as he smiled smugly and nodded towards the bag on the goblins back.


    Something flickered behind the goblins eyes for a second before he responded. He had thought something over with rming speed.


    I take shinnies from Mahedium, he told the hobgoblin humbly. You can have if you want, very tall stabber of humans, but it heavy.


    cknail scowled in disappointment as he flipped the sack open and peered inside. He hadnt expected the goblin to offer him the bag. That took the fun out of taking it from the goblin. However, he did like the titles the goblin was giving him. cknail knew his height was just perfect for a hobgoblin.


    That certainly looks like stuff from Mahediumsb, Geralhd added as he leaned over cknails shoulder. The little goblin must have grabbed whatever caught his eye before fleeing the fire and following your scent. He must have thought it would be safer to follow a hobgoblin.


    The inside of the bag was indeed stuffed full of items that looked like they hade from the mages cabin. None of the junk at the top was all that interesting or useful during a long hike, and cknail didnt want to dig deeper in case something exploded.


    You can keep it, the hobgoblin announced as his scowl deepened.


    Geralhds exnation didnt satisfy cknail. There was something off about this goblin and the way it acted. However, if the goblin wanted to drag heavy junk through the forest for who knows how long then cknail wasnt going to stop him.


    Thanks, wise master, the goblin responded as he nodded respectfully.


    He needs a name. What should we call him? Geralhd interjected happily.


    What was this now? For some reason, the bandits mood had picked up. cknail and the goblin both turned towards Geralhd.


    Our newpatriot needs a name, like yours and Scamps, the young man exined. He doesnt have one yet, right?


    Nope, the goblin confirmed as he sat there with an indecipherable expression on his face.


    After thinking it over for a few seconds, cknail realized that Geralhd was right. Naming the goblin would be useful. Unfortunately, the hobgoblin didnt really care all that much and no good names sprung to mind.


    Ill just call him Gob, cknail announced.


    This name didnt appear to please anyone else. Geralhd winced as if in pain and the goblin vigorously shook his head in denial.


    How about Imp, after the demon that punishes the arrogant who turn away from the gods? Geralhd suggested.


    As if a goblin needed fancy name like that! Well, it didnt matter. cknail didnt feel like arguing about something so stupid.


    Whatever, he said before snorting disdainfully and turning away.


    After a few minutes passed, everyone had finally gathered up, and they were ready to get going. With cknail leading the way, the surviving bandits entered the forest and made their way back to the path.


    Hiking quickly grew monotonous. The trail was rough, uneven, and thin so the going was difficult and tiring. Several of the humans started talking quietly amongst themselves to pass the time, and their conversation drew cknails interest.


    So, the hobgoblin is our scout, but who is our leader? We should really have one in case we need someone to take charge in an emergency, a bandit pointed out.


    cknails ears perked up as he focused on the mans words. That was a very good question! He had been too busy fighting and working to consider the fact that their group was currently leaderless. They obviously needed a chieftain, and it should obviously be him!


    I should be the new leader, cknail politely suggested as he came to a sudden stop and turned around.


    There was silence for a few seconds as everyone else stopped and considered this. For some reason, almost no one but him seemed to think it was good idea.


    Er, how do you figure? a male bandit asked with surprise and doubt in in his voice.


    Im the strongest and smartest person here, cknail replied. I could kill you all or just leave you all to die in the forest. How could it be anyone else?


    The person part is arguable, a blonde bandit muttered quietly.


    I heard that, cknail replied crossly as he red at the man.


    ...but hes still got my vote! the man quickly added as he flinched and smiled apologetically at cknail.


    cknail should totally be the new boss! Khita eximed, but everyone ignored her.


    Im not following a hobgoblin! another man interjected heatedly.


    Just leave it. What are you going to do? Fight him? Thats not going to make anyone here think youre smart, a woman replied. We do need him more than he needs us.


    Plus Ill kill you, cknail added helpfully.


    The humans took several seconds to talk among themselves. Surprisingly, it was Geralhd who took charge.


    Its not like we have any other n but to follow him, anyway. Why shouldnt he be in charge? he told the others.


    Well, Im not going to be the one to tell the murderous hobgoblin Slosher that he cant be the leader, a bearded bandit added.


    Er, can he even do the job? Hes undoubtedly a great fighter, but it takes more than that to lead, someone else replied skeptically as he threw cknail a nervous look.


    I have a n there, Geralhd countered before turning back to the hobgoblin.


    Weve agreed that youre the best choice for leader, cknail, he announced.


    Good, cknail replied proudly as he straightened up and smiled.


    He was the leader! That meant he was better than everyone else, and that they all knew it.


    We also want to elect a sub-leader, in case you are too busy... doing important things... to take charge. You know, just in case, Geralhd added diplomatically.


    That made sense to cknail. He nodded in eptance and the humans began talking among themselves. Having a sub-leader would just mean less work for him, and the leader already did next to no work. This was going to be great!


    You seem to be the hobgoblin whisperer here, so it may as well be you, the woman from earlier suggested to Geralhd.


    After a brief but intense conversation everyone else agreed. Some people looked angry and disappointed but they didnt argue. They were probably just jealous of cknails undeniable leadership skills.


    All right, thats all settled then, Geralhd concluded.


    cknail took this time to n his first move as the leader. He scanned the people behind him for a familiar face. Ah, there was Elyias! The young bandit was way at the back and cknail had almost forgotten he existed. How silly of him.


    Since Im the leader, I shouldnt carry my own bag, cknail announced before pointing at Elyias. You should take them.


    What? Thats not fair! the young man said in shock.


    Elyias had been keeping to himself at the back of the party, but now he spoke up and looked to the others for support. No one cared. They shrugged or even red at him for trying to drag them into his problem.


    Just do it, the man next to him said mercilessly.


    Also, if you drop anything or steal from me Ill kill you, cknail added as he passed the young man his bags.


    Fuck me, Elyias swore as he took them. How did I end up here?


    Free of the weight of his knapsack, cknails shoulders felt much looser. He hummed happily to himself, as he rolled his shoulders and started leading his loyal tribe of followers through the forest. He was the leader!


    Nothing much happened for the next few days. They hiked through the day and took shelter during the night. Their movement through the forest was slow, and since they had little in the way of supplies they also had to forage a fair bit as they moved.


    Luckily, cknail knew where to find edible nts. Saeter had taught him quite a lot and he had a very good nose. It was spring so quite a few young nt shoots could be eaten raw.


    Scamp and Imp were also skilled at gathering plenty of delicious bugs. They easily found more than they could eat and shared the rest with the humans. However, for some reason, the humans started toin about the food. They were very spoiled.


    Would it be possible to find some real meat? Geralhd eventually asked cknail.


    He had juste from a brief huddle with most the other humans. They had begun to thin out a little and their eyes shone with hunger. cknail thought it was a good look on them. It made them more hobgoblin-like and the loss of fat would allow them to run faster.


    Sure, its out there, cknail replied as he pointed toward the forest.


    Er, I meant could you go get it? Youre the best hunter here. The only hunter, really, Geralhd rified.


    You wanted to move quickly, cknail countered.


    We also need real food. Most of us are out of rations.


    cknail considered this for a few moments. He didnt want to do it, however since he was such a great leader, he would.


    Fine, well stop early at night and Ill set up some traps, which Ill empty in the morning, he exined.


    This was good enough for Geralhd and the others. They continued hiking for the rest of the day until it began to grow dark, and then they set up camp. While the others foraged for nts, cknail sniffed out some rabbit trails and set up snares.


    That next morning he checked them and found three rabbits. The excited humans quickly turned them into a breakfast stew. Over the next few days of travelling they kept this pattern up, even if it did slow them down.


    Eventually, the trail they were on ended at the top of a cliff. Below them, they could see an expanse of trees and a wide roaring river. The river stretched down from a far off mountain range and cut across thendscape. There was only one way to cross it.


    They had to make their way back to the main road. Herad had destroyed the original bridge across the river there, but it looked like Werrick had repaired it. From atop the cliff, they could see it.


    Some of the bandits thought it would be too risky to head back to the road. This was an obvious spot for an ambush. Unfortunately, cknail exined that they had no choice. He knew of no other crossing and it would be incredibly risky to try and find one.


    So, the group of survivors carefully crept through the forest and back towards the main road. cknail led the way down the slope and through the trees. He moved carefully and kept his eyes open, just in case there were enemies nearby.


    However, when cknail stepped out of the forest and under the sun, nothing happened. There was no ambush waiting for them on this side of the river.


    Maybe they dont care about us? Geralhd remarked in relief. I mean, why would they? With Herad dead, were no threat to Werrick.


    There was a chorus of agreements from the others, but cknail wasnt so sure. Why send rangers after them at all then? He intended to keep his eyes open.


    The hobgoblin made his way over to the bridge thaty across the river. It was a slim rickety looking thing, but it was still much better than trying to swim across the water. This early in the spring, the river was wide and its current was moving rapidly. Sshes of white water were constantly hitting the rocky banks.


    After ncing across the river at the winding road and distant tree line for any sign of ambushers, and not seeing any, cknail started crossing the bridge. The wooden nks beneath his feet creaked as he moved, and he was soon joined by the rest of his group.


    They made it to the other side without anything dramatic or unexpected happening. cknail nced back over his shoulder in the direction they hade, before leading his party down the road.


    The mood of the party quickly started to pick up. Unlike on the forest trail, it was easy going on the road and the trees werent so oppressively close. Without branches hanging overhead and greenery blocking their sight, everyone felt much safer.


    We will get to Daggerpoint within a few days at this rate! someone cheered.


    If Werrick was chasing us he would have guarded the bridge. That means were in the clear! another woman added happily.


    Im just d we dont have to walk through anymore mud. I think my one boot has sprung a leak, Khita announced.


    Several other bandits joined in the celebration. Most of them seemed to believe that they had escaped their pursuers. However, cknail just frowned thoughtfully, and Geralhd noticed his expression.


    What are you thinking about, cknail? he asked.


    I think they might think that we have a secret sneaky way across the river; this is our territory. That means they would ambush us anywhere but at the bridge, the hobgoblin exined.


    Thats a little paranoid, one bandit suggested.


    Did that even make sense? another asked.


    There were murmurs of agreement from most the other humans, and that annoyed the hobgoblin more than a little. He turned to re at them. He was the boss! How dare they question him!


    Shut up. Youre all being too noisy. Im the leader and I say be quiet, cknail ordered them haughtily.


    Ya, hes the leader, Khita added.


    The hobgoblin ignored the annoying redhead and his hand inched towards his sword hilt. If anyone challenged him then he might have to make an example of one or two of them. It was important to keep minions in line.


    We should do as he says, Geralhd interjected. Theres no reason to attract unwanted attention.


    There were nods of reluctant acknowledgment to the mans words, and cknail let his hand fall away from his sword hilt. He snorted disdainfully before turning back around and continuing to walk.


    There was still a long journey ahead of them before they reached Daggerpoint, and anything could happen in the wilds. cknail was going to have to muster all of his considerable intelligence and natural leadership skills to get them there safely.

 Into the Green 5

    Into the Green 5


    cknail and his new subordinates made good time on the road before they had to stop for the night. Thest time the hobgoblin hade this way, hed stumbled upon a hidden cave the size of a small room. It served as shelter from the elements and a hideaway, so he led the bandits to it.


    As his minions were setting up camp, and doing all the unimportant not-leader things, cknail went out to put up his snares. It had be a nightly ritual, and his human followers depended on the food he caught. They werepletely useless without him.


    Once finished, the hobgoblin took a few minutes to forage for edible shoots and leaves. Several of his followers had already been through this area in their own search for food, but cknail had neglected to tell them that Red Cress leaves were edible. In fact, they were the tastiest treat around, which was why he hadnt told anyone about them. More for him!


    When he got back to the cave, Geralhd was there to wee him. Most the other bandits were seated around the cave and resting. Days of hiking had worn them down and given them more than a few aches.


    Its a good thing you led us here. It looks like it might rain over night, and we didnt find much in the way of firewood, Geralhd told the hobgoblin. Were going to have to go most the night without any light, so Im d were not out in the forest.


    cknail nodded sagely in response. He didnt really care, but this sounded like something that important people talked about, and he was definitely important.


    Of course, Im the leader. I know of many secret hiding ces, because Im amazing. the hobgoblin replied as he grinned haughtily.


    After a brief conversation, Geralhd went to see if there was anything else that needed doing, and cknail let him. The humans could take care of themselves, probably. In any case, most of them were expendable, so it didnt matter.


    It quickly grew too dark to see outside. Even the inside of the cave was barely lit by a small flickering fire. As the leader, cknail didnt need to take a turn on watch, so he found somewherefortable to curl up and quickly fell asleep.


    When he rose early the next morning, the hobgoblin yawned sluggishly and started waking everyone else up. Several of thezy humans tried to sleep in, but cknail didnt let them. They had things to do, and a horde of murderous bandits to evade!


    Ah, let me sleep just a little more! Khita whined as she rolled over on her sleeping roll.


    Most the bandits had bedrolls or nkets of some sort, even if they didnt have much more than that. Before fleeing the battle they had grabbed what they could.


    No, Im the leader. Get up! cknail told her as he kicked her in the back.


    Ow, stop that! the redhead hissed angrily.


    No, Im the leader. Get up! cknail repeated happily as he kicked her again.


    He was enjoying this aspect of leadership quite a bit. Not only was physical discipline fun, but it was for their own good as well.


    Argh, fine! Im getting you back for thister, though, Khita growled grumpily as she sat up and turned to re at him.


    You cant get back at me, Im the leader, the hobgoblin exined condescendingly. Didnt she know anything?


    Well see about that, Khita responded as she got up and started rolling her nket up.


    cknail left her alone and went to get the nextzy human moving. It only took one blow to wake Elyias up. However, the still drowsy young man took one look at the hobgoblins face and yelped in terror. A second kick to the stomach shut him up. Minions were so funny.


    After a quick breakfast they were back on the road. Once the sun rose up past the horizon, it became a bright day with little in the way of clouds.


    The bandits continued on their trek North for several hours. They saw no sign of pursuers, although a small flock of screeching harpies flew overhead at one point.


    They were long gone before cknail could string his bow and try to shoot one down. His minions were alwaysining about being hungry, and a harpy had a fair bit of meat on it.


    As he was walking, cknails mind was focused on histest leadership problem. The top of his head was itchy because his horns were growing. They were still only a pair of small bony nubs, but they were definitely getting bigger. It was annoying.


    All hobgoblins had horns - or at least cknail thought they did - but he kept his filed down so that they didnt get in the way of wearing hats and stuff. Unfortunately, cknail had forgotten his file so he couldnt get rid of them.


    Even worse, none of his human minions had a file either. cknail had asked them, and then gone through their bags while they were sleeping, just to be sure they werent holding out on him, but he still hadnt found one.


    While cknail was scratching his scalp, an uneasy feeling came over him. It started with an itchy sensation like someone was watching him from out of sight, and then his gut twisted slightly to the left. Since he hadnt recently eaten any strange mushrooms, that meant something was wrong.


    The hobgoblin stopped what he was doing and scanned the tree lines on both sides of the road. He didnt see anything, but the feeling didnt disappear, so he raised a hand up and signalled for everyone to stop.


    Immediately, a surprised man walked right into cknails back. The man swiftly apologized and backed off, but cknail was still annoyed. Most of the humans hadpletely ignored his signal and were still walking!


    When I have my hand up like this it means youre supposed to stop! an infuriated cknail exined as he tried to stare everyone down.


    Oh, sorry, the bandit right behind the hobgoblin replied nervously.


    Everyone then slowly came to an uneasy standstill as cknail red at them. Who had trained these humans? They were terrible at everything! They must have been raised by awful masters.


    Grumbling to himself, the hobgoblin turned back to the road up ahead and listened carefully. A branch snapped and birds sang, but he didnt hear anything too out of ce or which exined his uneasy feeling.


    What is it? Geralhd asked nervously.


    Your great leader is not sure, cknail replied contemtively.


    We have a great leader? someone muttered.


    Its probably nothing. The hobgoblin is just being paranoid again, a bearded bandit then remarked.


    Really, youre going to question his instincts? Do you think your senses are better than his? Geralhd countered sarcastically with a voice full of ire.


    The bearded man shut up and didnt reply. Everyone else was quiet, as they waited for their hobgoblin leader to do or say something. After a few seconds of silence, cknail tilted his head back and sniffed the air. He smelled nothing unusual, so he began walking forward.


    Once he had moved a few dozen feet up ahead, the distracting scent of his stinky human followers disappeared. cknail sniffed the air again and then crouched down to press his nose against the dirt. He inhaled the scent of the road for a few seconds as he crawled around in a small circle.


    What is he doing? someone enquired.


    Er, did you catch a scent? Geralhd asked as the hobgoblin came to stop and stood up.


    Your glorious leader has found something important! cknail replied as he brushed himself off.


    What? Khita asked.


    The young redhead sounded tired and irritable. It was probably because she wasted so much energy being annoying. She should try and sleep a little more instead of talking so much.


    I found humans! cknail announced gravely.


    All the bandits nced at each other uncertainly. They frowned in confusion and more than a few of them rolled their eyes.


    Er, we know we are humans... Geralhd remarked.


    No, stupid minions, I mean different humans, cknail countered. There was arge group of people here less than an hour ago.


    It took the bandits several seconds to consider this, and then they all tried to speak up at the same time.


    Damnation, that could mean anything! someone cursed.


    What do we do? a woman asked her fellows. Its probably Werricks men!


    We need to know more before we do anything, the first person replied.


    Before the humans could get too loud and waste his time, cknail shushed them. They all fell silent immediately at the tone of his voice, and at the sound of his sword leaving its sheath.


    Im the leader, so I decide what we do! he told them as he brandished the de dramatically.


    And whats that? the woman asked guardedly.


    The other bandits also seemed nervous and unsure of themselves. Luckily, they had a leader to tell them what to do! cknail considered his options for a few moments before replying. Completely on his own, he quickly came to the conclusion that he needed to know more before he could decide.


    You all stay here, and try not to die. Im going to look around, he ordered his minions.


    There were murmurs of disagreement, but cknail ignored them. As the leader, his was the only opinion that mattered.


    Ille with you! Khita offered with sudden interest.


    No. If she tries to follow me then stab her, cknail ordered Geralhd as he turned away from his followers.


    Er, sure, the thin man replied uncertainly.


    Ill do it for you, if you want, a bearded bandit offered him.


    cknail ignored them and headed for the edge of the forest. No one followed him as he slipped into the shadows cast by the branches overhead.


    Stealthily, the hobgoblin slipped around trees and bushes. All his senses were alert as he searched the area for signs of any watchers. When he didnt see anyone, he began paralleling the road.


    It was only after several minutes of walking that he detected someone. As cknail was climbing over an old rotting log, a rustling sound drew his eyes towards a tree next to the road.


    There was a ck haired man crouching in the shadows there, where he couldnt be seen from the road, but where he could still observe anyone approaching from that way. cknail instantly recognized him as a sentry. His gear was also too simr to what Werricks men wore for it to be a coincidence.


    cknail crept closer to get a better look. He circled around a thick green bush and hid behind the base of a particrly wide tree. Once there, he spotted a dozen other concealed humans near the road, and there were undoubtedly more that he couldnt see.


    This was an ambush. Werricks men wereying in wait, and they were ready to pounce on cknails party if they went down the road. They obviously already knew that the survivors from Herads band were nearby, or they wouldnt be waiting like this. That meant cknail didnt have much time.


    It didnt look like the first sentry cknail had seen was visible to any of the other ambushers. The hobgoblin weighed his options. It was best to retreat as quickly as possible, and killing the sentry might alert someone. However, on the other hand, he <em>really</em> enjoyed murdering people.


    He was going to do it. He couldnt help himself.


    Quickly, cknail slipped out from behind the tree and closed in on the man. He was absolutely silent as he glided up behind the bandit and drew a dagger. Once close enough, cknail lunged forward, cut the mans throat, and then stabbed him under his ribs. The man barely had time to shiver and gasp before he bled to death in cknails arms.


    To avoid suspicion, cknail leaned the corpse up against a tree in an as natural a position as he could, and then hurried back the way he hade. Soon, the enemy would realize that cknails party wasnt going to walk into their ambush and they would give chase. The hobgoblin nned on not being around when that happened.


    There was a smallmotion when cknail stepped out of the bushes at the edge of the road. All hispanions looked his way and started talking all at once. cknail noticed that Khita was seated on the ground and sulking. The bearded bandit from before was standing behind her with a hand on his sword hilt.


    The hobgoblin huffed in annoyance and signalled for Geralhd to speak. He was the sub leader after all.


    Youre back, cknail. What did you find? the thin bandit asked nervously.


    cknail quickly filled everyone in. If they had been nervous before, they quickly grew terrified as the hobgoblin told them what he had seen. By this point, their reaction didnt surprise the hobgoblin. Had every coward in Herads band somehow made their way into this group? The only person who didnt look afraid was Khita, and that was because she was too dumb to feel proper emotions.


    Before anyone could ask cknail the predictable and stupid questions that he was always asked at time like this, the hobgoblin growled and stared everyone down. Then, when he had their undivided attention, he exined his n. It was a good n.


    We''re going to run away, he told them all.


    I think we should just take their ambush from behind! Khita suggested enthusiastically. Theyre scum, and well easily cut them to pieces!


    Shut up, nobody asked you, cknail replied dismissively.


    Where can we go? the blonde woman asked fearfully. We cant go forwards into the ambush, and there is nothing behind us but enemies!


    Were already almost out of food! We cant afford a detour, another bandit added.


    Their reactions annoyed cknail. It wasnt a minions ce to question the boss.


    Shut up! cknail hissed. Im the leader, and I say were running, so lets go.


    The hobgoblins angry tone caused several people to step away from him. They eyed each other nervously but none of them started moving.


    Lets go! cknai repeated furiously. Why werent they moving?


    Um, where are we running to? You havent told us yet, Geralhd politely pointed out.


    Oh, right. Were going into the forest, the hobgoblin exined. Ill lead us around the ambush.


    Can you do that? someone asked doubtfully.


    Yes, easily, cknail replied withplete sincerity.


    He wouldnt have any problem going around the ambush. It was everyone else that would have difficulty. They werent nearly as sneaky as he was, and they were dumb. Half of them would probably fall into a hole or something; the same hole, all at once.


    I guess we dont have much of a choice, Geralhd admitted. Every other option is worse.


    You really dont; Im the leader, cknail agreed.


    The hobgoblin then quickly got everyone moving. They didnt have much time so he herded them towards the forest. Once they were all off the road, cknail took the lead again.


    No one spoke as they hiked through the woods. With all the overhanging branches and bushes nearby, everyone was afraid of being overheard by someone out of sight. Only cknail had any idea in which direction the enemyy.


    They had just walked down into a small muddy gully when they heard shouting from back on the road. Everyone stopped and looked in that direction.


    Theyre on to us! We need to move before they find our tracks or get our scent, cknail ordered his followers.


    They wont be able to track us by scent, Geralhd replied. People cant do that.


    Not even if they put their noses really close to the ground and take really deep breaths? the hobgoblin asked uncertainly.


    No.


    Humans are so useless, cknail remarked disdainfully as he shook his head. Why do you even have noses?


    No one replied, so the hobgoblin picked up his speed. Everyone else struggled to follow him up the other side of the gully, but it didnt take them very long to reach the top.


    cknail wanted to move at a faster pace but some of the humans were frustratingly slow. He considered leaving them behind, but decided against it for now. He could always abandon themter.


    After fleeing through the forest for a bit less than half an hour, cknail began to hear sounds of pursuit. Someone had found their trail and was following it.


    The hobgoblin eyed his minions and considered his options. As he watched, one person near the back tripped over an exposed root and fell. cknail sighed as they quickly got back up. He was going to have to do something.


    Why was it always him that had to take action? Chieftains werent supposed to be the ones doing all the work. That was contrary to the entire point! He was obviously spoiling his minions rotten.


    Were being followed. Keep going forward and Ill deal with it, cknail exined as he turned and started heading back.


    Ill go with you! Khita suggested.


    No, youre slow, cknail quickly replied.


    Youre not letting me do anything! she whined in response. I want to fight.


    Instead of replying, cknail turned to look meaningfully at the person behind her. It was the bearded bandit from before.


    Stab her if she tries to follow you? the man guessed.


    cknail nodded happily before walking away. It was possible to teach grown humans new tricks!


    The rest of the survivors from Herads band headed deeper into the forest, and they soon were out of sight. cknail backtracked for a few moments before spotting a hiding spot at the base of arge rock surrounded by bushes.


    As he moved towards it, he pulled his bow off his back and strung it. He then crouched down and started waiting. The enemy would be arriving soon and the hobgoblin nned to be ready for them.

 Into the Green 6

    Into the Green 6


    It didnt take long for the sound of footsteps to reach cknails pointy green ears. He listened with patient excitement as he crouched in his hiding spot between a boulder and a clump of bushes. It was almost time to begin the game.


    cknail peeked out from behind a screen of leaves as three enemies walked into view. The trio was moving carefully and keeping an eye out for their quarry. At least one of them was a trained scout because they were easily following the trail that cknails group had left.


    All three of the men looked like Werricks minions. They had rough dirty armor and they were armed to the teeth. Their faces were weathered and hard looking. These were men who had seen more than their fair share of fighting and were looking for more.


    However, only one of them had a bow and it wasnt strung. As he studied his prey, cknail could hear more enemies approaching from behind. These first three men were just the enemies vanguard.


    Have you noticed anything weird about some of the tracks? one of the scouts asked his fellows.


    No, why? the lead man replied as he looked down at the ground.


    I uh... Ive heard that the Killer of Men might be in among the group were tracking, the first speaker admitted nervously.


    The hobgoblin? Hes just a tall tale meant to frighten townies. You dont really believe in magic talking hobgoblins, do you? the third man interjected scornfully.


    No, of course not... Im just telling you what I heard.


    Well, theres nothing strange about any of the signs Ive seen. They all look human to me, although if the Killer of Men is wearing boots then it might be hard to tell, the lead man joked.


    All three of the enemy bandits chuckled among themselves, although the one man still looked more than a little anxious. Nearby, cknail joined in theughter and cackled gleefully. It was funny because it was true.


    Um, who is that? the nervous man asked.


    His eyes had gone wide with fear as soon as he realized someone else was there. Before either of hispanions could respond though, cknail rose from his hiding ce and shot the lead scout in the chest. There was a hollow thump as the arrow sunk into flesh.


    As the other men jerked backwards in shock, cknail swirled around and dashed away with startling speed. The hobgoblin used the bushes as cover and swerved behind a tree. Instead of trying to catch up with Geralhd and the others, he took off to the side.


    The hobgoblins n was to distract and dy the enemy. He knew he could run much faster through the forest than a bunch of clumsy humans. He would lead them on a futile chase for a while before circling back.


    Once out of sight, cknail couldnt help but startughing. The hunt was on! The thought caused excitement to course through the hobgoblin and it quickened his blood. The hobgoblinsugh twisted into a chilling inhuman howl.


    The dreadful sound echoed through the forest. cknail could only imagine the sweet fear it was stirring inside the hearts of the humans who thought they were chasing him. Soon, they would know how very wrong they were.


    After a few seconds, cknail started to grow red in the face. Unfortunately, it was hard to breathe andugh at the same time. He had to stop and focus on running.


    To his surprise, just as he fell silent, an answering howl rose above the forest from off in the distance. Was it an echo, or had something answered his challenge? Well, whatever it was, it would have to wait. The angry humans chasing him were the priority now.


    Soon, the sound of his own heavy breathing filled cknails ears as he ran through the forest. After almost half an hour of running and stopping, he was beginning to tire out.


    Somewhere close behind him, the enemy bandits were still in hot pursuit. That was the point though; he wanted them to chase him. He could have lost the enemy a long time ago if he had wanted to. They were only human.


    cknail came to a stop again and turned to look over his shoulder. Off in the distance, he saw a small swarm of enemies running towards him through the trees. They looked sort of mad. Maybe it was because he had purposely led them through several thick clumps of thorn bushes and more than a fewrge mud pits?


    After catching his breath for a moment, cknail decided that he was far enough away now. It would be a bad idea to leave his minions leaderless for too long, so he should probably turn back. Who knew what trouble they would get into without him?


    Goodbye, smelly humans. Thanks for chasing me! cknail yelled before dashing away.


    Instead of goofing around like before, he immediately went full out. With startling speed, the hobgoblin ran back towards his minions, and left his pursuers behind.


    Trees zipped by as cknail sprinted through the forest. A small creek appeared in front of him and he effortlessly jumped right across it without slowing down. He kept up the hurried pace until he stumbled upon the first sign of his allies passing.


    After stopping for a single moment to make sure he was going in the right direction, he took off again and headed deeper into the woods. Hopefully, his minions had kept going straight. He had specifically ordered them to, but then again they were all a bunch of morons.


    In front of cknail, the ground began to slop upwards and grow rockier. He had to swerve around severalrge grey rocks that jutted forth from the earth. Eventually, after several more minutes of running, he spotted Geralhd and the others.


    A rocky cliff face loomed up ahead. It was almost a hundred feet high and incredibly steep. Only a few stunted bushes grew on its face, but it was crowned by a line of trees where the forest continued up above. A single winding path ran up to the top. It looked like a difficult climb.


    Geralhd and others had stopped near the base of the cliff and were arguing amongst each other. Scamp and Imp were sitting off to one side and they looked bored.


    We need to hurry up and start climbing. We have no time to waste! Geralhd eximed angrily.


    Im not climbing that; wed be easy targets, like frogs on a log! We should go around, arge bandit countered.


    Get climbing, now! cknail shouted sternly as he jogged up behind them.


    Everyone flinched and turned to look cknails way. When they saw the angry look on his face, they all immediately started moving. The hobgoblin took up the rear as they formed a line, so that he could punish any stragglers. They needed to hurry!


    As they ascended, rocks were knocked loose by peoples boots. The stones made a lot of noise as they rolled down the cliff. cknail looked down. It was already quite a ways to the ground. Falling would be bad.


    Around two-thirds of the way to the top, the bandits progress suddenly stopped. There was a break in the path that couldnt be walked over. The next section could be reached via a short climb, but only one person could do it at a time.


    As cknail watched impatiently, Geralhd reached out for a handhold and began pulling himself up. Everyone else was forced to wait for him.


    Geralhd reached the top and Khita started climbing, but cknail grew frustrated by the sluggish pace. Even humans should be faster than this. They didnt have all day!


    Climb faster! he hissed at the man in front of him.


    I cant; its not even my turn yet, the man replied angrily.


    This statement of the obvious annoyed cknail. He knew that, but why did his minions have to make everything soplicated? They should just do as they were told.


    Movement down below at the base of the incline drew the hobgoblins attention. People were stepping out of the trees and gathering at the bottom of the cliff. There were at least three dozen of them and they were obviously Werricks men. Why would anyone else be out in this part of the woods?


    Slimy harpy spit, cknail swore.


    His n had been for his party to be on top of the cliff when the enemy showed up. That way they could just throw rocks down on anyone chasing them. The hobgoblinszy minions had ruined that great idea, though.


    Down below, a ck-haired man of medium build raised a hand and signalled towards cknails location. He had a goatee and his hair was slicked back with grease. A few secondster, he shouted something and led a charge up the cliff path.


    Damnation, what do we do? one of cknails men asked.


    There were still a dozen men stuck on the lower part of the cliff path and the enemy would be upon them in under a minute. There was nowhere they could escape to, and down below three of Werricks men held back and started stringing bows.


    Dont just stand there. At least throw something at them! cknail hissed as he pulled his own bow off his back.


    A few of the bandits next to cknail immediately leaped to obey. They grabbedrge rocks from off the ground and hurled them down at the attackers charging up the path. It barely slowed the enemy, but it was better than nothing.


    Meanwhile, cknail had already nocked an arrow and let it loose. The projectile whirred through the air and into one of the unsuspecting archers chests. He had been busy prepping his own weapon and hadnt even been looking up.


    As the wounded archer copsed, cknail was already pulling out another arrow from the quiver one of his minions was carrying. He nocked it and took aim again. He fired off his second shot just as the enemy archers let loose. The arrows zoomed past each other as they flew through the air.


    Eep, cknail cried as he covered his head and ducked low. The ugly pink bastards had both aimed at him!


    The enemys two projectiles buzzed over his head and mmed into the cliff face behind him. There was a loud cracking sound as one of them bounced off a rock and then hit his leg. The impact stung but it didnt draw blood.


    cknail ignored the pain and nced back towards the archers. The hobgoblin grinned when he saw that one of them had fallen on his ass and had an arrow sticking out of his arm. That left only one still standing, but the hobgoblin didnt have time to worry about him. He dropped his bow and drew his sword.


    He was just in time; the goateed enemy leader was approaching quickly. With startling speed, he dashed ahead of hisrades and raised his de up above his head. Before anyone but cknail could react, the man then shed at the bandit standing next to the hobgoblin.


    There was a loud metallic ng as cknail extended his own weapon and blocked the attack. The hobgoblins hands shook under the force of the blow, and he gritted his teeth. The goateed mans strength and speed were too high for a normal human; he had to be a Slosher.


    Stinky troll piss, ckail cursed as he eyed his new opponent.


    The man looked surprised for a second and then smiled as he stepped back. The smug taunting grin on his face irritated cknail. The hobgoblin hated fighting Sloshers. In a fair fight, human swordsmen were already a pain to deal with, even when they didnt use Elixir.


    So, you can talk. I hadnt thought that was true, the goateed man remarked as he raised his sword and took a defensive stance.


    As he was doing this, the rest of the enemy fighters caught up to him. The cliff path they were all standing on was only wide enough for three or four people and the footing was treacherous, so most of them held back. Only a few of them could engage the closest of cknails minions.


    No, youre stupid, cknail replied as fighting broke out around him.


    It was a terrible rebuttal, but it was the only thing that hade to mind. He was under a lot of pressure! Thement certainly didnt impress the enemy Slosher. The man smirked and gave the hobgoblin a condescending look.


    When cknail hissed angrily back, the Vessel attacked with a whip-like sh at his face. The hobgoblin was startled but barely managed to dodge to the side.


    The man attacked again, and as cknail blocked the blow with his own sword he growled hatefully. Attacking while the enemy was distracted was his thing! The hobgoblin was going to enjoy killing this man. He was infuriating!


    The hobgoblin snarled and shed at his opponent. He wished hed taken the time to drink some Elixir. He only had one vial left, but it wouldnt do him any good if he was dead.


    The two fighters exchanged blows and manoeuvred around as much as their tight surroundings would allow. Neither one of them wanted to collide with the other bandits who were fighting nearby or to stumble and fall off the ledge. It was a long way down and the rocks looked pointy.


    It soon became apparent that the goateed Slosher was stronger than cknail, even if their speed was almost the same. His blows were forcing the hobgoblin on the defensive, and there was nowhere to fall back to.


    Is this all you got? Im disappointed! the Slosher remarked as he pressed his advantage.


    Just wait. Ive killed many Vessels like you, cknail hissed back as he defended himself.


    This was true, but ignored the fact that none of those men had been killed in fair fights, and this contest was looking to be way too even for the hobgoblinsfort. He had to think up some way to cheat!


    To cknails left, one of the attackers fell off the ledge and began to roll down the cliff. The man had been locked in a sword fight until hed lost his bnce. Now, he screamed as he hit jagged rocks and they tore into him.


    cknail ducked under a sh aimed at his head and counterattacked. His de sliced through the air towards his opponents front foot, but the man stepped back out of the way.


    Someone bumped into cknail from behind, and he was forced to take an awkward step forward to catch his bnce. The goateed man was quick to take advantage of this stumble. He lunged forward and shed at cknails exposed arm.


    The hobgoblin could only lean back clumsily out of the way, and it wasnt enough. The mans de caught on cknails sleeve and sliced through it. It cut into the flesh beneath and drew blood beforeing free.


    Hissing in pain, cknail flinched and stepped back. He forced his throbbing arm to keep a steady grip on his swords hilt, and he quickly raised his de defensively again. He couldnt afford a moment of weakness. A single mistake would lead to his death.


    To either side, other bandits were fighting, even if the thin pathway meant everyone was pressed tightly together. Most of Werricks troops couldnt get near the melee. They formed several ranks as they waited for an opening. Behind cknail, around ten of hispanions were still waiting to climb across the break in the path. Even when cknails turn came, he couldn''t cross while under attack. The next time anything like this happened cknail was going to make sure the leader got to escape first!


    Id heard you were a tricky fighter, but you honestly dont seem like anything special, his opponent observed condescendingly. Youre just an ugly green beast waving around a bit of metal in imitation of a person.


    The tone of the mans voice caused anger to roar to life within cknails guts. Screw escaping, he really wanted to kill this guy! He just needed an opening, a good one.


    At least Im not pink and fat! cknail hissed back.


    The goateed Slosher attacked again with a flurry of strikes. cknail tried to slip past and get a blow of his own in, but he was forced to block an attack and was knocked back.


    As he was scheming his next move, cknail noticed a green blur out of the corner of his eye. Both he and his opponent nced down to see a goblin jump up onto a nearby rock. It was Imp, and there was something in his hand.


    Whats this? the Slosher mumbled in confusion as he kept one eye on cknail.


    As they watched, the goblin hurled something up into the air over their heads. It was a crystal, and odd light flickered out from it as itnded in the middle of the enemys ranks.


    Oh, shit, the goateed man remarked as he realized what he had just seen.


    cknail didnt bother to respond. He swirled around, crouched down low, and pulled his cloak tightly about himself. The hobgoblin recognized magic when he saw it, and there was only one possible oue of it when goblins were involved.


    He was just in time. There was a deafening boom as the crystal exploded. A wave of force washed over everyone and a storm of dark crystal shards quickly followed. The crystalline des sliced into anyone in their path, and more than a dozen of Werricks men were thrown over the ledge by the st.


    Screams filled the air as bodies fell and flesh was torn. Blood sttered against the rocks and its tangy scent filled the air. In just over a second, the enemy formation had been smashed. Bodies littered the ground. cknail smiled as he climbed back to his feet.


    Ha, I always have a trick, even if I dont know about it yet, he then bragged smugly.


    There was a smile on cknails face as he took in the sight before him. Who wasughing now! He had shown them! Imp had also helped a little.


    I always win! the hobgoblinughed.


    However, the grin slipped from cknails lips as the enemy Vessel stood back up and red at him. What was this? The explosion hadnt done more than stun the man. That wasnt fair.


    The goateed man wasnt alone either; almost half the enemies on the ledge started to climb to their feet. As impressive as the explosion and crystal shrapnel had been, the enemies closest to the st had absorbed most of the damage.


    cknails group was still outnumbered and cornered. Also, the enemy Vessel looked really mad now. Maybe Imp had another crystal?


    The hobgoblin threw a look over his shoulder. Imp had taken advantage of the confusion to cut in line and climb up over the break in the path. The little traitor had run away!


    What in all the burning hells was that? Never mind, you die now, the enemy Slosher suddenly spat as he leapt forward to cross swords with cknail again.

 Into the Green 7

    Into the Green 7


    As the fighting continued around him on the narrow path leading up the cliff, cknail raised his de and lowered his center of gravity. He kept his weight bnced mostly on his back foot as the goateed Vessel lunged forward and shed at him. There was a metallic ringing as the hobgoblin blocked the blow with a sh of his own.


    The impact almost knocked cknail over. His lips curled up into a snarl as he struggled not to give ground. He had been hoping his enemy would still be too stunned to attack with his full force, but that was obviously not the case.


    With a wordless cry full of hate and determination, the human Slosher pressed forward. His weight and power pushed the smaller hobgoblin back an arms length. As cknail recovered, the manunched a brutal series of sword strikes from every direction.


    Each blow was stronger than thest and harder to stop. cknails opponent was now obviously burning Elixir without holding back. The ng of steel hitting steel rang out repeatedly, and cknail knew he was in trouble. He was fighting as hard as he could and using every ounce of power he could summon from within himself, but he couldnt keep this up. If only he had taken the time to down some Elixir of his own!


    Im going to carve my name in your hide! the enemy bandit roared.


    The shout was quickly followed by a wide swing from the left that smashed cknails guard aside. The hobgoblin stumbled, and the goateed Slosher raised his de up in preparation to strike again.


    A cold feeling of inevitability filled cknail as he watched the de descend, but then one of the hobgoblins allies dove in from the side. The goateed man was forced to turn away from cknail for a second and block the neers attack.


    A vicious toothy grin appeared on cknails lips as he took advantage of the distraction. He stepped forward and stabbed at the mans exposed ribs.


    The enemy Slosher saw the blowing, but instead of trying to block it he took a deep breath and turned to look directly at cknail. Raw fury shone in the mans eyes as he exhaled a searing burst of red mes.


    The fireball shot towards cknails head. Instinctively, the hobgoblin raised his arms to shield his face and fell backwards. A wave of heat washed over him, and his ass hit the rocky ground with a painful thump.


    cknail hissed in pain. His long experience with humans told him that they didnt normally breathe fire. It must be a Vessel power. Why didnt he have a cool ability like that?


    The hobgoblin opened his eyes to see that his sleeves were on fire. Hurriedly, he smacked them against his pants until they went out.


    I hate doing that, the enemy Slosher admitted bitterly as he kicked cknails surprised ally aside. It burns far too much Elixir, and it tastes like ash.


    The man then turned towards cknail and raised his sword again. That was when the hobgoblin realized he had dropped his sword. Not good. The cliff edge to the hobgoblins right prevented him from rolling that way, and there were people to his left and behind him.


    With a victorious grin, the enemy shed down at cknail. The de cut through the air, and then there was a loud crack as a rock smashed into the mans head. cknail blinked. The Sloshers eyes rolled up into his head until the whites showed. In slow motion, he fell sideways and rolled off the ledge and out of sight.


    Huh, thats good, cknail said as he stared disbelievingly at the empty space his opponent had been upying until a moment ago.


    The hobgoblin shook his head to clear it, and he looked up towards the source of the rock. The top of the cliff was empty. There was no one there.


    None of cknailspanions were anywhere near the spot that the rock had fallen from. They were in the opposite direction, on the far side of the pathway. Had the falling rocke loose on its own? That seemed unlikely...


    The fall of their leader didnt go unnoticed by the other enemy bandits. Their lead elements took a step back and stopped fighting, so that they could revaluate the situation. Most of them looked stunned.


    Sensing weakness, cknail grabbed his fallen sword and rose to his feet. He brandished the de as he growled menacingly as deeply as he could. It was bluffing time.


    The hobgoblins aggressive move shook the remaining enemies spirit. The closest ones flinched and instinctively took a step back. Fear and uncertainly was in on their faces.


    Time to feast! cknail cackled as two of his minions took up position next to him and raised their des.


    Lets finish these scum sacs, one of them suggested in a sinister tone.


    Werricks men wavered. They didnt know what to do. Nervously, one of the men at the front rank took a step back. It looked like they were going to run, which was good since cknail was exhausted. Continuing the fight would be risky.


    Hold your ground! We still outnumber the freaks, a tall man said as he pushed his way to the front.


    This new human was wearing chainmail shirt and was holding a two-handed war-axe. He was bald, and he looked particrly stupid when the rock dropped onto his head. With a hollow plunk, the man copsed limply onto the ground and dropped his weapon. Everyone looked up, but there was still no one there.


    Curse this mess! one of Werricks men swore as he turned and started pushing his way through his allies.


    The rest of the enemies quickly did the same, and their formation dissolved into chaos. They fought amongst themselves as they fled down the cliff and back towards the ground. cknail and hispanions watched them go.


    Ha, I win! the hobgoblin bragged loudly as he puffed up his chest. He always won, even if he wasnt always sure how. He was amazing like that.


    What just happened? a confused voice enquired.


    Did someone race ahead to the top of the cliff and drop that rock? another bandit asked as he looked up.


    No, there hasnt been enough time. This side of the way is tough going, Geralhd yelled from the other side of the break in the path.


    Thats weird. Maybe the gods are finally smiling down on us? the man standing next to cknail suggested with a cheerfulness born of exhaustion.


    Well, if theres anything up there well see it soon, Geralhd spected.


    I just cant believe we made it out of that alive. Lets get the hells out of here Elyias suggested.


    We survived because Im such a great leader. Look at all the foes we beat, and we didnt even lose anyone! Im the best leader ever, cknail celebrated as he grinned at the bodies of Werricks fallen men.


    We lost Marcus. He was cut down in the melee, and his corpse is right there, Geralhd responded as he pointed towards the mans body.


    Except for him, the hobgoblin corrected himself. And one person barely counts anyway.


    Every leader lost a minion here and there, even the best ones. Minions were like that, and Marcus hadnt been important. cknail didnt even remember him, since so many humans looked the same.


    Since it was possible that the enemy could return with reinforcements at any time, cknail and the other bandits hurriedly climbed over to the other side of the path. As Geralhd had pointed out, the way past it was rough going. They had to scrabble over rocks and up inclines to reach the top.


    It was hard work but they soon made their way to the top without any further incidents. This time cknail went first, just in case. While he sat down and took a break, the person after him helped the others up.


    The forest continued on the top of the cliff. There was a thick line of bushes on the edge of the forest, where the sunlight got through, and then row after row of trees after that.


    Down below the heights, the leaves of the trees looked like a green sea. cknail could see the river and the bridge they had used to cross it off in the distance. From up this high, he could see for miles.


    Lets take a break here, Geralhd suggested as thest man was pulled up to the top. It was Elyias, and he was still carrying cknails bags.


    Yep, sounds good, and that was my n anyway, since Im such an amazing leader, cknail replied before yawning.


    Exhausted from the fight and the climb, everyone settled down to rest. Packs and bags were put down, and sks of water were passed around as people quenched their thirst. Most of the bandits looked out over the cliff at the view that stretched out before them.


    Thank the gods that we made it. I thought I was going to die!  Elyias remarked in relief. Do you think those bastards will chase us?


    Eh, this cliff is easy to defend and it stretches a fair way in both directions. Theyd be fools to try and go around it through the Green, one of the female bandits replied.


    True, but what do we do now? Geralhd mused aloud. We cant go back to the road and were almost out of supplies.


    There was a few seconds of silence as everyone digested this unwee bit of information. No one could think of a reply. Eventually, it was Geralhd that broke the silence again.


    Well have to find a trail and follow it North. It will be tough, but cknail should be able to keep us going in the right direction and find us enough food to get by, he said.


    Of course, cknail can. We have nothing to worry about, Khita eximed confidently. cknails a hobgoblin and was trained by Saeter himself. Hes like the best scout ever!


    That will take weeks of hiking through the Green! Elyias protested. Trying that without real meals sounds like nothing but a slow death to me, and who knows what well run into out there!


    We dont have much of a choice. Youre wee to choose a fast death, though, a bearded bandit replied as he gestured significantly towards the cliff.


    Elyias looked over the edge and at the rocks below, before stepping back away and slumping down into a sitting position in defeat.


    Thats what I thought, the bearded man remarked disdainfully.


    Maybe we should ask cknail what he thinks, Khita proposed.


    At her words, everyone turned to look towards cknail. The hobgoblin was lying on the ground and using a knapsack as a pillow, but he noticed the attention and perked up.


    We will find a trail and go north, he told his minions as he met their gazes.


    He had only vaguely been paying attention, and he hadnt really been nning anything, but Geralhds idea seemed fine.


    No one had anything more to say to cknail, so after a few more minutes of rest, he got up to look at the nearby bushes. Staring at the view over the cliff had gotten boring.


    Before he reached the shrubs at the edge of the woods, there was suddenly a rustling noise from within them. cknail froze as a stone spear abruptly erupted from the undergrowth and stopped an inch from his face.


    Uh oh, the hobgoblin noted loudly as he stared cross-eyed at the weapons tip.


    His voice drew his minions attention and most of them looked his way, just in time to see a swarm of goblinsunch themselves out of the bushes towards them.


    There was a loud outburst of inventive cursing as the bandits rose to their feet and reached for their weapons, but they were too slow. The goblins were upon them almost instantly. The green horde overran the humans, and a mass of stone tipped spears prodded the unarmed bandits away from their gear and towards the cliff.


    cknail took a careful step back from the weapon that was hovering in front of his eyes, just as the snarling hobgoblin that was holding it emerged from the undergrowth.


    Ah, this makes sense, cknail observed as he connected the mental dots. He had been wondering where those falling rocks from before hade from. Now he knew.


    Fuck me, were all damned! Elyias whined hysterically as he dodged the stab of a goblin spear.


    Everyone hold still, and try not to provoke them, Geralhd ordered everyone with uncharacteristic firmness before turning to cknail.


    The humans had been pushed together by the swarm of gibbering goblins. They were surrounded except for where their backs were facing the empty air thaty over the cliff ledge. Fear and desperation was in on their faces.


    The goblins were mostly nude but a few of them were wearing loinclothes. Primitive bracelets and nes made from bits of string, beads, and feathers weremon decorations.


    The snarling hobgoblin leading them was also wearing a loincloth made of animal skin. cknail was instantly reminded of thest hobgoblin he had fought. Like that one, this one had messy grey hair and two ck horns. His horns were much smaller and didnt branch off like antlers, though. He also looked younger and wasnt covered in scars.


    Are they hostile? What are they saying? Geralhd urgently asked cknail. He sounded terrified.


    How would I know? It sounds like stupid grunting to me, cknail responded crossly. Im not from here.


    This didnt cheer anyone up.


    I dont think they want to kill us, Khita remarked.


    Its a hobgoblin and a swarm of bloody goblins! Of course, they fucking want to murder us, another bandit countered furiously. Ive heard this story; it ends with us in cook pot.


    cknails a hobgoblin and hes not our enemy, Khita pointed out as she stared with great interest at the goblin poking at her with a spear.


    Thats right, cknail! Youre the leader, do something. Geralhd told him fervently.


    In response, cknail straightened up. Geralhd was right; he was the leader, so he had to do something. It was time for him to take charge and face danger head on.


    A stern look appeared on cknails face as he stared at the hobgoblin in front of him. Uncowed, the hobgoblin returned the gaze and snarled menacingly. cknail didnt respond. Instead, as everyone watched, he reached out and slowly pushed the spear aimed at his face aside.


    The feral hobgoblin just continued to stare hatefully at cknail. Their eyes were locked as they regarded each other with careful consideration. Then, cknail hissed and stepped forward. For a split second, the feral hobgoblin hesitated at the unexpected move.


    Seizing his chance, cknail sprang into action. He growled fearlessly as he raised a fist and smacked the hobgoblin over the head with it. There was a quiet thump, and the feral hobgoblin whined before copsing onto the ground into a subordinate kneeling position. The goblins all wentpletely still.


    cknail stood over his defeated opponent and bragged, There, now Im the goblin chief!


    No one said anything for several long seconds. They stared at the two hobgoblins with various mixed andplex expressions. Disbelief wasmon. So was confusion.


    Thats it? Khita asked with incredulity. Youre not going to fight?


    cknail turned and gave the redhead a condescending look.


    Why would we? I know him, he told her.


    What, how? Geralhd asked as one of his eyes twitched.


    I just do. I ran into this tribe before and beat some sense into them. The hobgoblin was just a goblin then, though, cknail replied as he eyed the hobgoblin at his feet suspiciously.He recognized the the hobgoblin''s scent. It was the same as a grey-haired goblin that had served as one of cknail''s chief subordinates for a while.


    What was he supposed to do with a hobgoblin minion? He had met one other hobgoblin before, and that encounter had immediately ended in a duel to the death. cknail suspected that all hobgoblins were kind of jerks.


    Well, he couldnt be worse than Khita, and he would undoubtedly be more useful. cknail would just have to keep an eye on him.


    So were not going to die? Elyias asked with desperate unbelieving hope.


    Not unless you want to, cknail replied dismissively.


    Elyias had gone totally white with fear, but color started to reappear on his face. cknail ignored him and scratched his head where his horns were irritating his skin. He wasnt sure what his next move was.


    Er, could you do something about these goblins? Geralhd politely interjected.


    Oh, right, cknail replied as he turned away from the prostate hobgoblin.


    The goblins that were holding Geralhd and the others hostage were quickly dispersed with a little hand waving and angry yelling by cknail. They chattered senselessly as they scattered in all directions and then reformed closer to their old leader. With curious expressions, they carefully watched cknail interact with the humans.


    Once no longer under immediate threat, the survivors of Herads band quickly moved to re-arm themselves and gather their gear. The humans then formed up into a defensive formation and started talking amongst themselves.


    So... um, what do the goblins want? Geralhd asked cknail as he turned away from the others.


    It took cknail a few seconds toe up with an answer to that question, and he blinked in surprise. It was like Geralhd was trying to be as confusing and stupid as possible.


    They want what I want them to want. Im the chief now, he replied patronizingly.


    Hmm, but why did they attack us? Geralhd enquired.


    Theyre goblins; this is their territory, cknail exined. He was quickly losing patience.


    Geralhd didnt look any less confused or afraid after cknails answer. He opened his mouth to ask something else, but cknail ignored him and walked back to the other hobgoblin. He didnt want to answer any more pointless questions.


    The feral hobgoblin had gotten off his knees while cknail had been talking, but his eyes immediately shifted downwards in submission when cknail looked his way. He clearly didnt want to fight.


    As cknail approached, the feral hobgoblin grumbled something iprehensible. cknail had no idea what it meant, but it didnt really matter since he was in charge.


    I shall call you Gob. Thats a great name, cknail remarked before motioning vaguely towards the forest and starting to walk again.


    The goblins quickly fell in line behind him as he stepped into the trees.


    Hey, where are you going? Geralhd called out in surprise.


    To the goblins den, cknail exined without turning around.


    What! Youre just going to leave us here? Khita asked.


    cknail sighed in frustration before turning back to re at the humans. Why were they so slow?


    No, you have to follow me! Im the leader, he reminded them. How could they not understand this?


    Im not going anywhere with a swarm of wild goblins! one of the bandit eximed fearfully in reply.


    The very idea is insane. Elyias added hysterically. We have to leave, now!


    There was a general mutterings of agreement from most the other humans. They were still looking at the goblins with poorly disguised hostility and fear.


    They have food and a ce to rest, cknail pointed out.


    There was silence as everyone considered this. cknail didnt wait for a response. He started walking again and pushed his way through the bushes into the forest proper. The grey haired hobgoblin followed after him and so did the goblins.


    After a few minutes of walking, cknail nced over his shoulder. His human minions had decided to follow him after all, but they were keeping a generous distance between themselves and the goblins.


    This is the stupidest thing Ive ever heard of, a female bandit announced. Even the morons you hear about in campfire horror stories werent dumb enough to follow two hobgoblins and a tribe of goblins into the Green. Were so going to die horribly.


    So, stay here then, coward. Im following cknail, Khita remarked confidently.


    As long as they fatten us up before they eat us then Ill die happy, the bearded bandit added.


    Im sure cknail isnt going to betray us. Hes always been a loyal and stalwartrade, Geralhd added in an attempt to reassure the others. Im sure he has a n.


    It took a few more minutes of walking for cknail to realize that he had no idea where he was going, so he gestured for the feral hobgoblin to take the lead. It also had the advantage of cing Gob where he could be easily watched; even being around him put cknail on edge. No one with a lick of sense would ever trust a hobgoblin.

 Into the Green 8

    Into the Green 8


    After the goblins ambush, the trek through the forest was uneventful. The feral hobgoblin led the way for around half an hour, and they soon emerged from out of the trees into an overgrown clearing full of thick bushes that were too tall to see over.


    cknail instantly recognized the area. The main road wasnt too far from here. Last year, during his trip to Daggerpoint he had been attacked by the hobgoblin that had ruled this territory. After a long brutal fight to the death where cknail had been forced to use all his impressive cunning and skill, hed then had to stop and rest with the local tribe for a while before moving on.


    Gob hadnt been around then. cknail eyed the hobgoblin suspiciously out of the corner of his eye. Gob must have been a mere goblin during cknailsst visit, and only transformed into a hobgoblin after cknail had left to catch up with Herad and Saeter.


    Well, the important thing was that the tribe should have plenty of food. cknail had spent a fair amount of time teaching the goblins here how to trap animals and smoke meat. If the stupid little critters had already forgotten his lessons then cknail was going to be very mad. One way or another, they were going to be providing him with as much food as he wanted to eat.


    A breeze swept through the trees as cknail began to push his way through the bushes in front of him. His new goblin followers were right behind him, but a sudden low growl which was followed by a fearful yelp stopped his advance. He turned around to see what was happening and sighed. It was probably something dumb and annoying. His minions had problems with even the simplest instructions.


    The people behind cknail had stopped moving. Gob was growling menacingly at Geralhd while standing in his way. The humans had backed away from the suddenly hostile hobgoblin and were looking nervous. Their posture was tense and a few of them had started to reach for their weapons. Scamp and Imp stood off to the side and watched.


    What now? cknail mumbled to himself as he walked back to see what all themotion was about. It didnt look like Gob was going to attack anyone but he was obviously upset about something.


    What did you do? cknail called out to Geralhd.


    Nothing, he just wont let us pass! the young man replied with obvious exasperation.


    As if in response, Gob growled again and red at Geralhd menacingly. The hobgoblin wasnt brandishing his weapon though, so cknail carefully observed the situation for a few moments before a possible exnation urred to him.


    Ah, you need to bow! cknail dered with sudden understanding as he met Geralhds gaze. It all made sense now.


    What?


    The hobgoblin ranger rolled his eyes. How could anyone possibly survive long enough to reach adulthood without knowing this sort of thing? It was so basic.


    Gob is angry because youre strangers. You need to join the tribe before hell let you near hisir.


    And how do we do that? Geralhd asked.


    Bow before me, your great leader, like Gob did before.


    Why did he have to exin this? It was really obvious and he had just answered this question a second ago.


    Im not doing that, a blonde woman replied as she grimaced distastefully.


    There must be an easier way to show him that were not a threat, Geralhd remarked.


    Sometimes goblin leaders piss on their... cknail started to suggest before he was interrupted.


    Bowing it is, the blonde woman quickly cut in.


    What happens if we do neither? a bearded bandit whose name cknail kept forgetting asked.


    Then you stay here while I go get something to eat, cknail replied callously. He was a little annoyed at being cut off.


    After a lot of unhappy grumbling, all the bandits knelt in front of cknail, even if they did it reluctantly and as quickly as possible. cknail couldnt stop himself from smirking the entire time. It was just too satisfying to see all his hard work and sacrifice pay off. He was finally being treated like he so rightly deserved to be, as the chief. When thest human had finished bowing, Gob nodded happily to himself and got out of the way. cknail felt a little better about having the hobgoblin around now. He was proving to be useful.


    Now that you have joined the tribe you can enter, cknail told everyone before turning around and leading the way into the clearing. All the goblins except for Scamp and Imp had already gone ahead.


    I swear to the gods, there had better actually be food here or Im going to kill someone, a bandit remarked bitterly as he followed cknail. There was also a bit more grumbling from some of the others, but none of them decided to stay behind. They all trailed after cknail as he headed towards the goblinsir.


    A few minutester, a sense of nostalgia washed over cknail as he pushed aside thest bush. The goblinsir had changed a lot since hisst visit but it was still recognizable. The tribe had built their home atop the old ruin of arge human dwelling. The worn down remnants of the buildings walls could be seen encircling it. The goblins had reinforced the breaks in the old brick wall with wooden stacks so that they had a defensive barrier. When cknail had been here before the walls interior had been almost bare. There had only been a few small structures made up of loosely piled branches leaning up against the walls, but now arge new building was visible.


    This new structure lookedrge enough to hold a dozen men, even if they had to slouch over because of the low roof. It was made up of branches that had been carefully woven together and reinforced with twine. Layers of bark had been tied to the roof and walls to block out the wind and rain, although a few spots used tarp or bits of cloth that had obviously been stolen from humans.


    The rest of the goblin camp was mostly packed dirt and a few tiny dwellings, except for where arge fire pit sat in the center of the site. Right where cknail remembered it, a huge old pot was hanging over the fire pit.


    Incredible, I didnt know goblins still made things like this, Geralhd remarked breathlessly as he looked around.


    I showed them how to do stuff like that, cknail bragged.


    Ya, its great if you love dirt and twigs, another bandit observed sarcastically.


    Wheres the food? Khita asked. Her priorities were clear.


    Just wait. Soon we will have a feast to celebrate my great leadership! cknail responded as he looked around.


    The feral goblins were lurking around the edges of the camp. They were staring at the humans but also giving them plenty of room. In sharp contrast, Gob was sticking close to the intruders. He slowly circled them while ring suspiciously their way, and his attitude clearly unnerved some of the bandits. cknail ignored all that. He quickly walked over to the fire pit and examined the pot. He was intent on nning his victory celebration. A great chieftain deserved a great feast.


    The first thing cknail needed to do was round up some goblins, so thats what he did. He stalked over to the closest one and grabbed it before it could escape. Then, he hoisted it up into the air and shook it a few times to get its attention. When he was sure the goblin knew who was the boss, he gestured towards the pot and then in the direction where he knew a creeky. The goblin seemed to understand because it nodded along enthusiastically, so cknail dropped it.


    Soon, Gob was leading a group of goblins over to the creek to fetch water. Through various physical threats,plicated gestures, and bouts of angry hissing cknail got a few more parties of goblins working on other jobs. Most importantly, he sent them out to gather food, or at least he hoped thats what they were doing. It was either that or they were going to set fire to the forest. He would find out soon enough.


    You really should be trying to teach them some Elorian, it would make this much easier, Gehd said as he observed cknail work. All the bandits that hade with cknail had found ces to sit and rest at one end of the camp. They watched the goings-on with wary attention.


    Whats Elorain? cknail asked doubtfully.


    Its thenguage we are speaking right now, Geralhd exined with obvious amusement. There was a slight smirk on his lips.


    Oh, right, I knew that. Im just too busy right now for more lessons, the hobgoblin replied.


    Then maybe Ill do it. Scamp learned it fairly quickly, the young man mused aloud as he looked towards therge hut the goblins had built.


    Go ahead, cknail said distractedly as the first of goblins began to filter back in.


    It wasnt long before the big pot was filled with water and hauled up above the fire pit by Gob and a few goblins. Piles of leaves, roots, firewood, and small game where piled up off to one side. The goblin tribe was quite skilled at hunting rabbits, birds, and squirrels.


    The feral tribe quickly grew excited as cknail began throwing ingredients into the pot. He had cooked for them during hisst visit as well, and apparently they had liked it. They goblins slipped past the nearby humans in order to peer over his shoulder, and he had to smack a few to keep them out of his way.


    Its done! cknail announced happily a few minutester. The smell of the stew now filled the air.


    As the feral goblins fought amongst themselves over the few bowls they possessed, the bandits began serving themselves. They were briefly interrupted when a growling Gob forced his way to the front of the line. However, no one tried to fight the hobgoblin, so he took his food and withdrew peacefully.


    Huh, this isnt half bad, Elyias remarked in surprise after sitting down and tasting the food.


    Its the nectar of the godspared to the stuff we were eating yesterday, another bandit added.


    Ya, if I went another day eating nothing but raw leaves I was going to go crazy, a third agreed. That and shit my brains out.


    When all the humans had gotten out of the way, an unruly crowd of goblins ran over to get their own food. Scamp and Imp had been behind thest bandit so they were in the swarms way. Scamp had to fight his way through the mob. He hissed and scratched anyone who got too close to the bowl he had pressed protectively against his chest. In sharp contrast, none of the ferals bothered Imp. Whenever one got too close he directed a cold stare their way and they scurried away.


    Of course, cknail had taken the first bowl for himself. He just finished slurping the meal down when the feral goblins finished emptying the rest of the pot. However, since there were still plenty of ingredients left it didnt take him very long for him to get another batch going. He was almost finished when his cooking was briefly interrupted by a loud screech from Khita that hurt his ears.


    Hey, thats mine! the redhead yelled as she jumped to her feet.


    A goblin had somehow managed to get its hands on her knife. The little creature quickly ran off into the bushes outside of the camp and Khita disappeared after it. cknail snickered in amusement at the sight. What kind of idiot let her stuff get stolen by goblins?


    After he had finished cooking, cknail yawned and decided to take a nap. He had stuffed himself and his full stomach was making him more than little sleepy, but before he could nod off he was interrupted.


    cknail, what are we supposed to do now? Geralhd asked nervously after walking over to his side.


    Sleep, the hobgoblin replied crossly.


    Where should we do that? Geralhd enquired in a frustrated tone. We need shelter and I dont want to anger our... hosts.


    We also need some way to prevent the goblins from slitting our throats while we sleep, Elyias added. The young bandit sounded nervous and he kept ncing around every time there was the slightest of noises or movement by a goblin.


    cknail sighed and sat up. Couldnt the humans do anything for themselves? Did they really need him to tell them where to sleep?


    After a brief conversation, cknail led Geralhd on a tour of the feral goblins camp. The young bandit was surprised when cknail pulled open a makeshift trapdoor to reveal a staircase that led downwards into the ground.


    Oh, this must be an old root cer, Geralhd observed as they walked down into a fair sized room with stone walls. There were a few goblins lurking about, but cknail hissed and they quickly disappeared into a small tunnel in one of the walls. This was where the hobgoblin had slept thest time he was here.


    It was getting dark outside and there wasnt much light in the underground chamber, so cknail walked over to the firece he had dug into the wall during hisst visit. There was already a tiny bit of dry wood and grass inside, so it only took a few seconds to get a fire going using sparks from a piece of flint and steel.


    Yes, its a little dirty, but will work quite well, Geralhd remarked as he looked around. We can seal that hole there easily enough and then there is only one way in. I dont mean to offend your... friends, but I know well all sleep sounder in a secure location.


    I dont trust goblins either, cknail replied indifferently. Why would you ever trust a goblin? Of course, humans were just as bad in their own way. cknails heart twisted painfully for a second as several memories suddenly overcame him. The only human he had ever really trusted had been Saeter, and now his master was dead. That meant cknail was the only trustworthy person left. Being so loyal and incredibly amazing was a lonely burden.


    Im going to sleep now. Dont bother me, cknail announced before getting his nket out and curling up in one corner of the room.The humans could sort everything out now, and he didnt really feel like interacting with feral goblins right now, not even the female ones. For some reason, he just wasnt as interested in them as he had used to be. They were kind of short and t-chested... Wait, why was he thinking about this?


    It wasnt long before all the bandits starteding down into the cer. Some of them brought wood to feed the fire. The flickering mes lit the room as everyone set up for the night.


    It was several hours after that when Khita finally showed up again. cknail awoke to the sound of her stomping down the stairs. Her clothes were covered with mud and her exposed skin had scratches on it. She looked like shed gotten into a fight with a thorn bush.


    Did you get your knife back? he asked her snidely.


    Fuck you, you miserable bastard, she snarled in reply before going to sit over by the fire. cknail was fairly sure that meant she hadnt gotten her knife back.


    After an otherwise uneventful night, cknail led the bandits out of the root cer and back up to the fire pit. He sighed as he observed how nervous and fearful they were acting. Why were they so afraid of a few goblins and one hobgoblin? They were a bunch of big humans with steel weapons!


    Gob greeted his new chieftain by kneeling on the ground before him, which pleased cknail greatly. Maybe the hobgoblin wasnt so bad after all, and that meant there was no reason to kill him and make it look like an ident. cknail had spent some timest night thinking about the best way to go about that. Goblin chiefs werent supposed to kill their subordinates but it happened all the time, especially when those subordinates got uppity.


    Hey thats my knife! Khita eximed when she noticed the item tucked into the side of the hobgoblins loin cloth.


    She reached over to take it, but Gob stepped back and hissed at her. The redhead and the hobgoblin then stared at each other. Neither seemed likely to back down.


    Dont start anything, Geralhd warned her. He clearly didnt want a fight to break out.


    Make him give it back, Khita told cknail.


    Get it back yourself, cknail replied. He didnt like the tone of her voice. He was the leader and didnt take orders from anyone.


    Is this some sort of hobgoblin test? To see if Im sneaky enough to steal it back and prove myself? the redhead asked as her eyes narrowed with sudden suspicion.


    No, I just dont care, cknail remarked tly. If Khita couldnt hold onto her own stuff then that wasnt his problem.


    Youve be kind of an asstely, cknail, Khita huffed in reply as she scowled at him.


    Nope, wrong, the hobgoblin replied dismissively. He waspletely sure he hadnt changed at all. There was just no one around to force him to do stupid things anymore, like care about Khita or take baths.


    Life was better when you were the leader.

 Into the Green 9

    Into the Green 9


    cknail ignored Khita and everyone else as he went to work on things that were actually important. The early morning sunshine shone down on him as he got breakfast going. Sleeping, like everything else, made him hungry.


    More meat was brought over by goblins and roasted over the fire. There was enough that all the humans got to eat their fill, and there were still lots for the goblins. During cknails absence, the goblins had gotten skilled at hunting small game. cknail had shown them how to make slings and snares before he had left. The tribe had certainly grownrger, and none of them looked hungry.


    I never thought Id be so happy to eat a squirrel, or that theyd taste so good, Geralhd said after chewing and swallowing a bit of meat.


    Theyre pretty nice eating, really. Much better than rats, Khita replied from where she was sitting on the ground by the fire.


    Geralhd blinked in surprise and he gave her a disbelieving frown. Khita noticed his reaction and shrugged indifferently. Its not like Ive eaten a lot rats, but when youre living on the streets and youre hungry you eat whatever you can get.


    Her exnation just made Geralhd look more ufortable. He fidgeted and looked away.


    I used to live off rats and bugs, but now I prefer human food. It tastes less like dirt and it doesnt fight back, cknail added cheerfully.


    Khita threw cknail a friendly grin, which cknail returned, but there was silence as Geralhd and the other nearby humans considered this piece of hobgoblin wisdom.


    Er, that stew from yesterday... What was in it? Elyias asked as put down the rabbit on stick he had been eating. A few of the others grimaced and looked queasy as well.


    Lots of stuff. Saeter taught me how to cook it, cknail replied. Thest part of his exnation seemed to reassure the humans a little. Most of them resumed eating.


    cknail smiled proudly to himself. He was a great cook, and he was d they had enjoyed his cooking, even if it hadnt been his best recipe. There had barely been any bugs in it at all! The next time he cooked he was going to make sure he had the ingredients necessary to give the stew a proper crunch. That was the best part.


    This foray into goblin culinary habits has been fascinating, but we have some more important matters to discuss, like our next move, Geralhd said after he had finished eating.


    There was agreement from the other bandits and they began talking about their ns. A few humans had grown tired of hiking through the forest, but it was quickly decided that nothing had really changed. They still had no option but to try and find a trail that led North. After the confrontation with Werricks men, there was no way there werent enemies watching the main road.


    So we still have to walk through those gods deserted woods for what will probably be weeks, one of the women said. Were lucky we made it this far without being eaten by something. Getting to Daggerpoint is going to be like trying to trek through one of the hells.


    At least we got to rest under a roofst night and eat our fill for once, said the bearded bandit who cknail kept forgetting the name of. Maybe he should just call the man Beardy. As the leader, he was allowed to change his minions names, right?


    It was still early in the morning when cknail led his troupe of humans, and two goblins, off into the woods. Several of the bandits visibly rxed when the goblin camp was out of sight, which was stupid. Things were at their most dangerous when you couldnt see them.


    The going was tough for the first few hours. The ground was uneven and there were plenty of obstacles, such a rock and trees, which had to be avoided. Most of the trees themselves were tall with long slender needles instead of leaves, and sap oozed from breaks in their scaly bark.


    After a while though, the ground evened out, and smaller leafier trees began to appear. That was when cknail noticed something strange; their group had somehow picked up an extra human.


    Hmmm, how many people are we supposed to have? he asked Geralhd, who was standing right behind him.


    What? Did we lose someone? the young bandit asked as he spun around to look.


    No, the opposite, cknail replied as he studied the bandits.


    They had all stopped walking and were gazing at the hobgoblin with confused expressions. None of them looked unfamiliar... but it was hard to say for sure. cknail couldnt always tell all his humans apart. Of course, the hooded man at the back of the line was deeply suspicious. cknail walked past everyone until he got to the individual in question. He had a nagging suspicion about the hooded figure, which quickly proved correct.


    cknail red angrily at the intruder as he spoke. What are you doing, Gob? Thats my cloak trick. I did it first! Dont copy me!


    The feral hobgoblin froze for a second and then made a shrug-like motion, before pulling down his hood. The cloak had been doing a terrible job of concealing his horns anyway; the tips had been pushing up the fabric. Underneath the cloak, he was still dressed in a loincloth but he was also wearing a brown shirt he had stolen from somewhere.


    By all that is holy! Elyias cursed as he jerked back away from the hobgoblin that had been revealed. This reaction annoyed cknail. The hobgoblin wasnt much of a danger now that he had been exposed, and his disguise had been terrible anyway. Only an idiot like Elyias would have been fooled by it. He wasnt even wearing pants!


    Did he kill and rece one of us? someone asked in horror.


    Everyone is still here. He just stole some clothes, Geralhd quickly exined to keep everyone calm.


    The two hobgoblins stared at each for a few minutes. Gob hissed and barked for moment and then cknail growled back. The humans watched the intery nervously.


    Why is he following us? Geralhd asked when they had both fallen silent.


    I dont know. He just keeps making weird noises, cknail exined.


    Please make an educated guess then.


    He wants to stay with me because Im such a great leader. Im so handsome, strong, and wise that he will follow me anywhere, cknail observed with a fair bit of self-satisfaction. Now that he had said the words aloud he realized that they had to be true. What other exnation could there be?


    Well, he cant stay! Beardy the bearded bandit sputtered. He sounded angry and more than a little fearful.


    Oh? Are you the leader now? cknail hissed menacingly as he rounded upon the man and leveled a cold stare his way.


    He hadnt actually wanted another hobgoblin around - they couldnt be trusted  but there was no way he was letting anyone else decide that! He was the leader, and now that Beardy was against it, cknail wanted Gob to stay.


    Hes a wild hobgoblin! another bandit protested.


    Which means hes way more useful than you, or anyone else here but me, cknail countered.


    A few more bandits tried to argue with cknails decision but he didnt back down. Eventually, they had no choice but to ept Gobs presence. cknail was the leader and more than willing to stab a few people to make a point.


    Are the goblins going to be alright without their leader? Geralhd asked with a level of concern that confused cknail. Why did he care?


    Yes, cknail replied simply. The goblins would probably be better off without the hobgoblinzing about and stealing their food.


    By this time it was clear no one was going to try and chase him away, so Gob turned around and yelled something iprehensible. Immediately, four goblins with spears and one carrying arge sac ambled out of the bushes and joined the hobgoblin.


    Bloody lovely, Beardy remarked sarcastically.


    If they can bring in food then Id much rather have theirpany than yours, a woman remarked.


    The addition of a few more goblins certainly didnt bother cknail. He just shrugged and walked back up to the front of the line. He then picked a direction at random and started hiking again. After a few suspicious res, the human bandits followed him, and behind them came the feral goblins. Scamp and Imp stuck with the bandits. If anything they seemed more distrustful of the neers than the humans were. Scamp in particr gave them a few nasty looks and hugged his collection of pouches close.


    The group walked for most of the day, with only a few breaks. The most interesting thing to happen was when they walked around a clump of bushes and spooked a herd of deer. The meeting was a surprise to both sides, but the animals were long gone before anyone could string a bow or try and bring one down. With fleet grace, the deer sprung away and vanished off into the trees.


    When it began to grow dark and they stumbled upon a half way decent campsite atop a rocky outcrop, cknail signalled for a stop. As they were setting up camp, the humans objected to sharing their space with the feral goblins, but cknail pointed out that he was the leader and they didnt get to decide anything. He also mentioned that it was better to keep the goblins close where they could be watched.


    They did share their camp with us earlier, Geralhd told the other bandits. This bit of unasked for truth earned him some angry mutters and res, but it did seem to cate some of the dissenters.


    However, it was the goblins'' ability to gather firewood, even when it got dark, which finally convinced thest of the objectors. When Gob built a fire for himself and the goblins the bandits shut up and took a seat around it.


    Geralhd even sat next to Gob and tried tomunicate with him for a few moments. It didnt take long for the feral hobgoblin to grow annoyed by the human. Gob threw cknail a suffering look that was clearly an attempt to ask for permission to gut the noisy human that wouldnt shut up, but cknail shook his head, so the feral hobgoblin was forced to try and ignore the man instead.


    In the morning, the ferals further impressed the humans by catching several rabbits and squirrels. As was proper, they offered them to their great chieftain cknail, and he in turn shared the spoils with everyone else, after he had finished eating his fill. It wasnt enough to fill everyones bellies, except cknails, but it was more than they would have had otherwise.


    The early morning birds were out in full force as they set out. The sound of their singing filled the air. However, cknail soon began to grow tired of walking through the forest. It was nothing but the same mix of trees they had seen over thest few days. He was careful to avoid the older and darker areas where giant spiders might dwell as well as the overgrown clearings that Mimics preferred. That was the safe thing to do but it was also boring. Some excitement would almost be worth the risk of losing a few goblins or humans.


    A sudden loud cracking noise jerked cknail to attention. Everyone else heard it as well, but the sound echoed through the forest in a way that made it hard to guess where it hade from. The group stopped in their tracks and they looked off in different directions.


    There was another loud sound like wood shattering. This time cknail zoned in on the origin. He saw only trees in that direction, but then he noticed a ce where the ground suddenly dropped away. He couldnt see whaty at the bottom of the hill, but if there was something dangerous there he needed to know about it, plus it might be interesting.


    cknail signalled for his followers to be quiet and then he stalked over to the top of the hill. The incline was steep and muddy. At the bottom, there was a clearing full of long grass, and it was bristling with activity. cknail stared at themotion below. The clearing was upied by ogres. The herd was trampling through the grass along the edge of the clearing where the trees were, and they were using the huge ws on their front limbs to pull branches off of the trees. The huge brown beasts then brought the foliage to their mouths and chowed down on the leaves before throwing most of the harder wood aside. This was the source of all the noise.


    Several of the bandits including Geralhd joined cknail atop the hill. They let out quiet exmations of surprise when they saw the ogres. Many of them had never seen the beasts before, so the group took a quick break to watch them.


    Wow, those are some huge hulking things, Khitas eyes were wide with surprise and awe as she watched the creatures amble about below.


    Ive heard of ogres but I didnt think anything got sorge, Elyias remarked. You dont see anything like them down south. They must be twice as tall as a man when they stand up on their hind legs.


    Do you think theyre dangerous? Are we safe up here? Geralhd asked.


    Before answering, cknail took a moment to think the question over. He had only seen a herd of ogres before once, but because he was the leader he wanted to sound like he knew what he was talking about.


    Were safe up here. Ogres dont chase people. They will crush you if something scares them into stampeding, but they dont actually chase people, he exined.


    What could scare those giants? Elyias asked with amused disbelief. He sounded like he thought cknail was joking.


    Lots of stuff, cknail answered. Trolls and drakes will hunt and eat ogres.


    Drakes are real? I thought they were just stories meant to frighten people...


    Of course theyre real. I mean, Ive never seen one but Ive read about them, Geralhd said.


    I saw one chase some ogres. It was way bigger than a house and its teeth were longer than a man! cknail told them as he held his arms out as far apart as possible to show everyone what he meant. Its roar shook the trees and even Herad ran away from it.


    Khita grinned excitedly as she listened and her eyes shone with glee. If we wait here do you think a drake will show up? They sound amazing! she asked.


    I admit to a certain schrly curiosity about the creatures as well, but thats not going to happen, Geralhd told her. Our journey is dangerous enough without purposely trying to encounter a drake, and we dont have time to waste.


    cknail had to agree with Geralhd. Waiting around would be stupid. He shooed a newly terrified Elyias back into line and quickly got everyone moving again. A long march stilly ahead of them, and they spent the rest of the day trying to shorten it as much as possible.


    After another night in the forest, and an early morning start to the days hiking, cknail was forced to admit that he had no idea where he was or how to get to Daggerpoint. Somehow, one of his minions had gotten them lost. Why were his minions all so useless?


    Your n isnt working, cknail used Geralhd as he pulled him aside. A confused expression appeared on the mans face.


    My n?


    Yep, the one where we walk North until we find a trail to a human city. I havent found any trails, cknail pointed out. Geralhd winced as if in pain and sighed. He apparently didnt like being told the obvious.


    Well, we cant turn back now. Well just have to keep going and hope that we find a road, although I think we should head more towards the East now. Thats the way Daggerpoint should be, he told the hobgoblin.


    Fine, whatever, cknail replied. He wasnt sure that was the greatest idea, but it didnt matter to him. He was fine with wandering the woods. It was as good a ce to be as any, and he still wasnt certain what he would do when they got to Daggerpoint.


    They resumed their march and quickly stumbled into a swampy area. Soon over half the standing green trees were reced by white skeletal husks, and the firm ground gave way to mud. Pools of standing water blocked the way forward, and no one wanted to go for a swim. However, the real problem was the bugs. Swarms of buzzing insects descended on the bandits and goblins. The humans threw their hoods up and the goblins quickly rolled in the mud, and then they made a run for it. cknail led the charge away from the swamp and up to drier ground.


    Now youve really gotten us lost, cknail used Geralhd as he swatted a mosquito that hadnded on his nose. They finally stopped running when they had reached a hill where there was enough wind to blow all the insects chasing them away.


    I have? What did I do? Geralhd replied indignantly.


    Its your n so everything is your fault, the hobgoblin exined.


    It hasnt failed us yet. Lets keep moving.


    Yes, lets keep walking off into the woods until we all fall over dead. That way the goblins get a free meal and dont even have to raise a hand against us, Beardy the bandit interjected. He didnt actually sound as if he actually liked Geralhds n.


    No, they just have to walk half a hundred miles. Thats stupid. The goblins are the only ones here that arent having any problems finding food, Geralhd replied dismissively.


    Ya, youre stupid, cknail added. He felt it was his duty as the leader to point that out.


    A few more of the bandits grumbled but they quickly shut up when cknail red their way. It wasnt like they had better ideas, or anywhere they could escape to, so the long hike through the seemingly never ending forest continued.

 Into the Green 10

    Into the Green 10


    The forest was just beginning to darken as dusk fell when cknails band of misfits found themselves making their way up an unremarkable hill. A canopy of broad leaves towered above them and was supported by scattered broad tree trunks that rose out of the earth. Dark soil was visible underneath the thin covering of nts that covered the ground.


    They had been walking through the trees without stopping since they had decided to head Northeast in search of some sign of human civilization. cknail was just about to admit defeat and start looking for somewhere to set up camp for the night when he stumbled across a nearly invisible game trail, where the earth had been ttened and no nts grew. It went almost straight North, so at first cknail didnt give it more than a brief nce. However, it was an unusually wide path and that drew his interest because a lot of animals were obviously using it. It would be useful to know what sort of creatures were nearby, in case any of them liked eating people. cknail only had so many spares.


    A brief sniff around revealed nothing more dangerous than some old wolf piss, but his eyes spotted something interesting. Saeter had taught the hobgoblin not to rely too much on smell and how to track by following physical signs. It wasnt usually that useful but sometimes rain or time would wash a weak scent away.


    cknail came to a stop and looked down at his find. Your great leader has found something, because he is the best scout ever, he announced to his followers.


    Its not another weird mushroom you want one of us to eat, is it? Elyias still looks a little out of it, but at least hes stopped mumbling to himself now, Beardy replied. He was third in line and he didnt sound too enthusiastic about cknails discovery.


    Elyias was holding up the rear of the bandits and he looked more than a little green. Every once in a while one of the feral goblins would poke him and giggle before running away but the young man barely reacted. He just plodded forward and stared ahead with unfocused eyes.


    No, its a foot print, and Elyias will be fine. My minions just feeling... rxed now that his stomach is full and hes not so hungry. His skin color has never looked so good!


    A footprint? Is it a human one? Geralhd asked hopefully from behind cknail as everyone stopped walking and looked toward the hobgoblin scout.


    Yes, from a boot, cknail exined as he crouched down and pointed to where the heel of a boot had left an imprint in the dirt. The smooth curved edge was clearly visible, and a quick inspection of the surroundings revealed a few more signs of passing humans.


    Its about bloody time! Gods, I hope this means were near a town or something. I thought the Green would be more exciting than this. All weve done is walk and then walk some more, Khita remarked. She sounded oddly bitter and disappointed that the worst thing they had run into was goblins.


    Im fine with it being boring. It couldnt be Werricks men who made those tracks, could it? A woman asked nervously from where she was standing near the back of the bandits.


    I cant think of any reason theyd be way the hells out here. They cant know where were headed and its a long walk, Geralhd replied.


    This trail looks like it goes back to the road, and it runs North the other way, cknail observed as he pointed one way and then the other.


    Why would anyone travel up that way? Theres nothing there but trees and then the mountains, Beardy asked. Nobody has ever crossed the Iron Teeth and nobody lives there.


    No one had an answer for him, so after discussing their options for a bit they decided on a course of action, which Geralhd then convinced cknail to take. cknail was the leader so he got to decide everything important, even when he had no idea what was going on. Luckily, Geralhd was there to exin things to him and remind him of important stuff, like that humans needed to eat a certain amount or they would die.


    Thus, cknail agreed that they should follow the trail North. His bandit minions hoped the path would eventually turn East towards civilization or at least lead somewhere where they could rest and resupply.


    As they followed the trail, cknail noticed plenty of other signs of human passage. It seemed like several different people were using the trail regrly. Even though they made good time, they didnt reach the end of the trail before night started to fall. Everyone was subdued as they set up camp under a rocky ledge.


    Damnation, I want to keep going. The source of those tracks might be just out of sight, and thats going to bug me all night, a bandit said as he unrolled his nket next to the fire.


    Go ahead, stupid, but Im not going to track you down when you get lost in the dark, cknail replied as he supervised everyone elses work. He was the leader.


    The only other person that did much talking was Geralhd. As had be routine over the past few days, he spent a while trying tomunicate with Gob and teach him the humannguage. The goblins and the humans had gotten used to each other, but the bandits long journey had worn them down. Most of them stared out into the forest with fearful eyes, and even though they had been eating better they had continued to lose weight. In the light cast by the campfire, their faces were thin and eyes sunken. cknail wasnt sure that some of them wouldst much longer. He didnt want to lose any minions, but if one of them did die he hoped it would be the man with the nice red coat or Khita.


    The goblins were a little spooked to be out in unfamiliar territory but otherwise fine. If anything the presence of so manyrge humans hade to reassure them. They had their own sentries but most of them curled up to sleep.


    When the sun had risen early the next morning and everyone had gotten up, they started hiking again. The tantalizing prospect of stumbling onto the source of the tracks they were following energized the bandits. They moved more quickly than they had earlier, and soon the forest changed around them. The thicker leafy trees gave way to tall trees pine trees that were clustered tightly together. Their fallen needles covered the ground and smothered a lot of the underbrush, so there was little to block vision.


    Oh, benevolent goddess! I pray we reach sour soon. My feet are bloody killing me, Elyias whined overdramatically. He was at the back of the group again, while cknail was leading the way up a shallow slope. He seemed to have recoveredpletely from the mushroom poisoning.


    Gods, youre a whiny brat. How the hells did you end up here and how have you survived this long? Beardy responded. Therge man then spat contemptuously to the side.


    A haunted look appeared on Elyias face and it took him a few moments to reply. I dont know... but by all that is divine, I wish I did. I joined up with Herad in Daggerpoint because it seemed like a sure way to make some easy money. A miserable chuckle escaped his lips as he finished speaking.


    Ha, hows that going for you? Beardy asked as he grinned cruelly. Therge bearded man seemed to find Elyias'' suffering amusing. That annoyed cknail a little because Elyias was his minion, so Elyias was supposed to amuse him! It was almost disloyal...


    It was going fine until that big street fight with those mercenaries in Daggerpoint, Elyias exined before sighing deeply. I hadnt signed up for that sort of shit. Im a thief, not a soldier. However, when the fighting had all finished and I had rxed, cknail showed up.


    And then things became great! Because I made you my minion, cknail interjected happily. He had been listening in.


    Something sort of like that, Elyias remarked bitterly.


    The young man turned to stare off into the forest. He seemed depressed. Maybe he needed another mushroom to cheer him up? There had been some funny looking purple ones a while back. Before cknail could speak up, Khita suddenly called out in an unusually loud voice meant to get attention. It worked.


    Hey, look over there! she announced.


    The group had just reached the top of the incline they had been climbing and could see beyond the top of it now. The forest abruptly ended about a hundred feet up ahead. The tree line just stopped and gave way to arge clearing. The open area wasnt natural. Stumps littered the edge where the forest had been cut back not too long ago, and all the grass in the area had been trampled down. There was thus nothing to block their view of the settlement that stood in the middle of the clearing. Large wooden buildings could be seen behind a tall fence, and a pir of smoke was rising up from a chimney.


    Its a vige or something, a female bandit remarked as she stared past herpanions. This pronouncement of the obvious earned her a few annoyed looks, including one from cknail.


    Everyone be quiet. Lets not give yourself away until weve figure out who they are, Geralhd said as he looked around at the forest to make sure they werent being observed.


    Ya, lets do that, cknail agreed. He took a second to listen carefully, but all he heard was the usual forest noises like the rustling of leaves. It didnt sound like there were any strange people around. He would have heard them or smelled them unless they were waiting in ambush, and that was unlikely. After a signal from their glorious leader, the bandits cautiously made their way over to the edge of the forest and stared out into the clearing. The goblins followed them.


    Hmm, its too big to be an outpost or a trappers hut. You could fit a hundred people in there. It must be vige after all, Geralhd observed.


    Look at the ground here in front of us. Most of it has been worked in the past and those areas closer to the wall there look like theyve already been nted, Elyias pointed out as he crouched down and stared at the dirt in front of him. You would only do that if you were living here.


    Beardy scratched his head and scowled as he looked around. Theyre farming out here? I thought all these little viges got raided and wiped out a long time ago.


    The bandits would have to find them first. This vige is more than a little out of the way and even bandits stick close to the main roads. Im guessing they try to keep their location secret as well, Geralhd remarked.


    So theyre probably not too fond of visitors, and some smallmunities can get very intense about that sort of thing, Elyias remarked warily.


    Well, not matter who they are, they probably wont wee a group of armed strangers in their hearth, and they definitely wont appreciate us bringing a pack of goblins with us, Beardy added.


    So what do we do now? Khita asked. Im not staying out here when theres a nicefy house right over there. I want to sleep on a bed. No, <em>I need</em> to sleep on a bed, and I have no problem with stabbing a few people to get it either.


    We should wait out of sight until nightfall and then find a way inside. They wont be expecting an attack. Those walls are for keeping beasts out, not people, and Ill eat my boots if they get travellers out here.


    Everyone considered this n for a few moments. Several people including Geralhd started to raise objections, but Khita cut them off. What if we just grabbed some hostages? Then we could force them to let us in, and we wouldnt have to wait so long. Nightfall is a bloody long time from now!


    Huh, you might be right; waiting could be risky. They know the area and someone might stumble into our trail and alert the vige. So instead, we could have ckail climb over the wall and let us inside. He could probably manage that undetected in the day, and then we could grab the first few people we find as bargaining chips.


    Why is every option you present so violent?" Geralhd asked as he red at Beardy. We have other alternatives, and not everything needs to end with drawn steel and bloodshed.


    Beardy delivered his reply in a cold and dispassionate voice. Because Im a starving murderous bandit who steals from people for a living, and because seeing my friends die bloodily and then taking a week long trek through the damned Green has put me in a shitty mood.


    Fair enough, but lets not jump into anything, Geralhd replied in a carefully neutral voice. The other mans reply had clearly unsettled him. Antagonizing these people could cost us a lot more than it would gain us. We should try and parley with them first.


    That would cost us the element of surprise, and we cant trust them. They live out in the deep Green! No one normal does that. Theyre probably all a bunch of cannibals or something worse, Elyias said as he stared nervously at the buildings that sat in the middle of the clearing in front of them.


    What in all the hells do you have against rural viges? Did one murder your parents? a woman asked Elyias.


    What do you think we should do, cknail? Khita interjected as she threw the hobgoblin an excited grin.


    It took a few moments for cknail toe up with a reply. He wasnt against sneaking into the vige and killing some people  that was kind of what he did  but he wasnt sure what the point would be. In fact, what were they even after in the first ce? The humans had very different priorities than him, because they were so stupid.


    What do you want from the vige? cknail asked the group as he shrugged. There was once again a quiet lull as the bandits considered the unexpected question.


    Food and rest? Beardy replied uncertainly.


    Then we would need to kill them all or make nice, cknail remarked as he stared at the viges fortifications.


    Hes right, Geralhd said. Infuriating the natives wont get us anything. If we attack them they will fight back and we wont be able to trust them or drop our guards. We cant hope to kill them all either. Our only real way of securing a ce to rest and recuperate is to talk to them and work out some sort of deal.


    But what if theyre all a bunch of crazed inbred cultists that worship some twisted forest god? Elyias asked. Maybe thats why they live way out here, and if we just walk up to their front door and announce ourselves the bastards may run out and ughter us for supper.


    Seriously, what is it with you? the woman from before asked him.


    Ive just had a few bad experiences with small towns, alright? They can be very unfriendly ces, where the kingsw isnt always upheld like it should be, and Ive heard some things.


    Ha, let me guess. You tried to steal or cheat at gambling and the vigers ran you out of town because you were an outsider, Beardy suggested.


    They didnt have a lick of evidence that I did anything wrong! Elyias hissed angrily in reply. I had to spend the night in an abandoned shed.


    We need to get back on topic, Geralhd told the others.


    cknail nodded his agreement and spoke up. How about I take a person and ask them some questions before we talk to the vige?


    You mean kidnap, Geralhd corrected him. You dont take or steal people, you kidnap them.


    I mean what I said.


    Fine, that n could work, but where how would you find this person?


    cknail grinned confidently to himself as he stared at the human settlement. All prey must leave theirir to find food and water. We just need to watch and wait for an unsuspecting human toe to us.


    Creepy, but its not a bad n, Beardy replied. However, if we dont want them dead set against us youd better not let them know youre a hobgoblin. That means one of us should do most the talking and the actual grabbing.


    Fine, cknail answered. He was never against doing less work.


    Someone leaving the vige might note out in this direction. There might even be vigers over in the forest on the other side, Geralhd said.


    Ill go look over there then, cknail replied as he stood up.


    Its a big forest maybe you should get help. Im sure the goblins could track down a viger for us.


    cknail turned to observe the pack of goblins. They were all clustered off to the side at the edge of the forest where they could hide among some stumps and bushes. Like the humans, they were mostly staring at the vige that sat in the middle of the clearing. As cknail watched, two of the goblins started hissing at each other and then began fighting. They wrestled for a second before Gob sprang into action and pulled them apart. The growling hobgoblin grabbed both of the goblins necks and pressed them down into the dirt until they shut up. He then let them go and they quickly scampered away.


    I dont think theyre smart enough for that, cknail said as he scowled at the scene before him.


    You had them doing moreplex tasks than this before, Geralhd pointed out.


    Yes, but not important things, just stuff that didnt affect me if they messed up. Also, I cant exin the details to them because they dont talk well.


    I think they understand more than you think, and Ive been teaching Gob. He can give them the details.


    This idea didnt sit well with cknail for some reason, but if it worked then he would have less work to do, so it was worth a shot. He sighed before responding.


    Fine, but if this goes badly its all your fault.

 Interlude: Getting What You Want

    Interlude: Getting What You Want


    Aris grunted as he lifted the bucket of slop up over the side of the enclosure and dumped its smelly contents into the tray below. It sshed upwards when it hit the bottom of the wooden container but none of the mucknded near Aris or his clothes. He was quite practiced at this. The pigs that had been idling about the mud filled pen immediately began trotting over to grab some food.


    Aris smiled as he pulled the now empty bucket back over the fence. His heart lifted at the animals happy snorts and hurried waddling. They seemed so happy to receive the viges kitchen castoffs. If only his own needs were so simple.


    A sigh escaped Aris lips as he looked at his surroundings and his own problems came to mind. Around him were the crude wooden buildings thaty at the center of his vige. Everything looked run down and dirty, although Aris had never seen them any other way. In fact, he had never seen any other buildings. Behind the buildings the settlement wall could be seen, and beyond that the tall trees of the forest loomed. It was a despairingly familiar scene that made him want to scream. The sight of the trees tormented him. They were a constant reminder of the outside world but also of all the barriers that shackled him here.


    He had been born in the isted vige of Shelter over fifteen winters ago, and it was likely that he would die here. There had to be more to life than this! Aris grimaced as he carried the bucket back over to his house. Like every other home in the vige, it was a squat structure with a thatch roof. There was only enough space inside for three cramped rooms. He dropped the slop bucket outside the front door before walking inside. His mother was working in the kitchen. There was a table in the middle of the room and she was chopping something up on top of it.


    Im done with the morning chores, mother, Aris told her as he stepped through the door.


    Ah, thank you, his mother replied without looking up from her work. Although she wasnt young anymore, the brte was still attractive. She wasnt slim but she moved gracefully and there was almost always a weing smile on her face.


    Is there something else you wanted me to do now? he asked her as he came to stop in the doorway. There were always more chores to do.


    No, not right now. We can do some cleaning togetherter, but right now I need to focus on this. You can take a break for an hour or so.


    Alright, Im going to go for a walk or something then.


    Oh, a walk? Are you nning to take it with anyone in particr? his mother said as she finally looked up and grinned at him. Aris cheeks flushed slightly in response.


    Nah, no one in particr, he replied unconvincingly as he quickly looked to the side.


    Sure, sweetie, whatever you say. Have fun with your walk, his mother responded smugly. Aris quickly muttered something iprehensible and then made a break for his room. He loved his mother but she could be so very embarrassing. Why couldnt she just stay out of his business?


    The room was shadowy and dark because the only source of light was one tiny round window, but it was enough to see by. Once inside his bedroom, he pulled out a drawer from his dresser and grabbed a clean shirt. It was still rough homespun and an ugly tan color, but at least it wasnt covered in dirt and grime. He had to watch his bnce as he changed because there was so little space in his cramped room. There was only a tiny piece of open floor between the bed and the dresser.


    When Aris was finished, he tried to slip past his mother and back outside but she noticed him and spoke up in a worried voice. If you end up going out into the forest dont go too far, and make sure you obey all the rules, including taking at least two other people.


    Yes, mother, of course, Aris responded as he tried to hide a grimace. Did she think he was still a child?


    You dont sound like you mean it, his mother observed as she scowled his way. We have those rules for a reason, as you well know. I shouldnt have to exin them to you of all people.


    Aris simply nodded and smiled insincerely in agreement before hurriedly walking out the door before she could respond. He didnt want to argue with his mother when there were better uses of his time. She was just being overprotective. Hardly any of the other vigers followed the three person rule. His mother was just paranoid about the forest because of how his father had disappeared. Years ago, he had gone out with one of his friends to do some trading in another vige but had never returned. His mother was sure some sort of beast had taken him, but Aris wasnt so sure. Maybe he had just grown tired of living in an isted collection of hovels where there was no future and decided to leave his family behind. Aris barely remembered his father as more than a weathered smiling face with a brown beard.


    As Aris was walking through the vige towards his destination, a flock of small birds twittered and flew over the vige. Aris watched them disappear into the trees on the other side of the wall and sighed again. The birds freedom filled him with envy. If his father had abandoned his family instead of dying then Aris wasnt so sure he could bring himself to hate the man. He was more jealous than anything. Of course, since his father wasnt around it was even more impossible for Aris to leave Shelter. Someone had to stay and help his mother. She was unlikely to remarry since there were so few unmarried men her age left in the vige. Their life out here was hard and dangerous. Fatalities were far from unheard of, and men did most the dangerous jobs.


    Damn this ce! Why did I have to be born here? Aris swore as he moved. At least not everything was terrible. There were one or two good things about Shelter. Like Joan, whose house he was now approaching.


    After a quick look around to make sure no one was within sight, Aris walked over to a window in the nearest house and looked inside. He didnt see or hear any movement, so he grinned and moved to the door. He had wanted to make sure her parents werent home before entering.


    Are you here, Joan? he called out eagerly. There was a shuffling sound from deeper in the house before anyone replied.


    Aris, is that you? a girly voice asked. A young woman in a homespun dress then stepped out of one of the back rooms. She had long blonde hair that was tied up into a bun atop her head and a smile on her face. Her figure was slim in a healthy way.


    Yes, its me. I just finished my morning work, and I was wondering if you wanted to spend some time together, he replied happily. Joans beautiful smiles never failed to fill him with joy. There were only about two dozen children his age in the vige, so they had all grown up together, and Aris had known Joan forever. However, it was only recently that Aris had found himself being drawn to her and started asking to spend time with her alone.


    Well, I dont know. Im still working on finishing up some sowing and my parents are out, Joan mused aloud. She sounded uncertain but tempted.


    Im sure it can wait. I was thinking we could go for a short walk and have a nice talk.


    That does sound fairly nice. A walk to where, though?


    Aris shrugged. He hadnt really thought about it too much. Just around the wall and then maybe over to the apple trees. No one will bother us over by the shed there.


    Joan shook her head, although there was still a smile on her lips. The movement did however cause several loose hairs to fall over her face and she had to brush them aside. The orchard shed? Thats where all the grabby young men like to take their girls. I dont think I want to go there. How about a real walk, like through the woods.


    Her response disappointed Aris. He couldnt stop himself from pouting slightly. He had been looking forward to snuggling up next to Joan and seeing if maybe he could steal a kiss or too. The forest would be private but there was one huge problem with it.


    You want to go by ourselves? he asked. Aris had a feeling that he already knew the answer, and that he wasnt going to like it.


    No, well definitely need a third person, silly. Those are the rules.


    That was what Aris had been afraid of. Where are we going to find someone to go with us right now? We should just go to the orchard or go to the forest by ourselves instead.


    I can just ask my brother. Hes just out back and it will only take a second. Wait here.


    Having said that, Joan smiled again and walked past him. Aris heart fell as she stepped through the door and out of sight. He had to wait there awkwardly for Joan to return a few minutester, and behind her came her brother, Hassiol. Aris forced himself not to grimace when Hassiol threw him a cocky grin. Aris wasnt thrilled by this new addition. Hassiol wasnt overprotective of his sister, but he obviously enjoyed annoying Aris by getting in his way. He seemed to find the whole thing to be hrious, which made Aris want to punch him. The two boys had never been close, even though they were only a year apart in age. They werent enemies but they hadnt been really been friends.


    So you want to go out into the forest for a walk! That sure sounds romantic. Thanks for inviting me, Hassiol told Aris as he smirked and his eyes glinted with amusement.


    No problem. I cant think of anywhere else I would like to take you the other boy replied before muttering. and where Id like to leave you for something to eat.


    Im so happy you two get along so well. Lets get going! Joan told them both. She seemed genuine in her excitement so Aris suppressed his own disaffection.


    I just remembered seeing some spring flowers thest time I went out into the forest, Aris told her as he tried to ignore her brother. Ill show them to you. I think youll love them. Theyre almost as pretty as you.


    Oh, that sounds lovely, Joan replied.


    Do you think Ill like them? I cant wait to see what color they will be! Hassiol interjected in a tone full of sarcasm.


    I have no idea, Aris replied crossly.


    Will they be as pretty as I am?


    There was a second of silence as Aris suppressed the urge to kick Hassiol in the balls. As much as the boy deserved it, it wouldnt be a good idea in front of his sister. Aris was trying to leave a good impression.


    Youll have to decide that on your own, or get one of the other girls to tell you. Thats if you ever find one that is interested in you, Aris eventually replied as he stared hostilely into Hassiols eyes.


    Joanughed at their exchange before stepping between them and speaking up. You two are so funny! But there will be plenty of time for joking around as we walk. Lets get going. I want to see these flowers.


    The blonde girl then took Aris arm and led him towards the door. Her brother followed as they made their way towards Shelters gates. The warm feeling of her body pressed up against his overwhelmed Aris, even if her heavy clothes meant their skin wasnt touching. His heart started beating louder and faster in his chest. He remained silent as they stepped outside the vige, but then Joan let go of his arm and stepped away.


    Across the barren fields outside the walls loomed the green trees thatpletely surrounded Shelter. Aris felt his good spirits drain away when they came into sight. He suddenly felt very alone, regardless of hispany. His home vige was a small speck in the center of an endless maze that he couldnt escape. The outside world full of people he had never met and the grand cities that he had heard some of the elders speak of were all impossibly far away. Regardless of how well this little outing went he was doomed to die in this vige where nothing happened but the slow grind of tragedy. None of the elders said it aloud, but everyone knew that the vige was shrinking. Less nting was done every year, and life was constantly getting harder. Shelter was dying, strangled by the Green. It couldnt survive on its own.


    Why did you stop? Lets get going, Joan asked from up ahead as she turned and gave Aris an inquisitive look.


    Oh, I was just thinking of how much I enjoy being around you, Aris replied smoothly as he started walking again. Behind him, Hassiol gagged in disgust. They all followed the path to the edge of the woods and stepped into the shade cast by the branches overhead.


    Birds twittered all around and leaves shook in the wind. Aris found himself praying as he followed Joan. I wish something would happen, anything really. Tar-Galhd, lord of the Green, youre the only god that could possibly hear me out here. Ive lived my entire life in your embrace Please, I beg of you, let me grow.


    Aris looked around. There was no sudden unnatural silence or divine sign, so he just sighed and kept moving. It had been stupid of him to suddenly be so dramatic. If he kept this up he was going to let a sour mood ruin a perfectly good date with a beautiful woman. The young man moved up next to Joan and smiled at her. When she smiled back he quickly forgot his prayer and the thoughts that had been dragging him down. He had feeling this was going to be a great day, even with Hassiol was around.

 Hearts and Homes 1

    Hearts and Homes 1


    cknail walked away from the vige that stood in the clearing behind him and headed over toward Gob and the feral goblins. They were lounging about among some bushes and tree stumps at the edge of the forest. Geralhd trailed after cknail.


    Im surprised you didnt talk to Gob more on the way here. Youve barely said two words to him since your reunion, Geralhd said as they moved.


    cknail sniffed in annoyance before replying. Why would I want to speak to him? Hes a hobgoblin so he has nothing interesting to say.


    Well, if he learns a few more words... Geralhd argued before cknail snorted rudely and cut him off.


    No, wrong. I mean Gob has nothing to say because he lives out in a forest with a bunch of goblins. Ive seen the forest and I know all about goblins. Talking about those things would be dumb.


    Geralhd wasnt able toe up with a reply to that before they reached Gobs side. The hobgoblin looked their way and then bowed his head submissively towards cknail. This just caused cknail to snort again, however Geralhd greeted Gob with a cheerful wave and a smile. The two then beganmunicating through hand gestures and a few human words as cknail watched. Most of it was confusing nonsense but it certainly seemed like Geralhd was asking Gob to send out goblins to help scout the forest.


    Yes. Yes, Gob replied in a scratchy voice after Geralhd had finished speaking. The hobgoblins head bobbed up and down enthusiastically as he spoke, and then he looked toward cknail. There was a questioning look in his eyes, and he was obviously seeking cknails approval to do whatever Geralhd had just asked of him.


    He didnt get it right away. cknail stared at Gob suspiciously for a second before reluctantly nodding. He had no reason to go against the n now, but he couldnt resist ending the nod with a haughty growl. cknail wanted to remind Gob who the boss was. It was him. He was the boss.


    Gob immediately turned around and made a barking sound. The goblins who were loitering all around him perked up and looked his way. When he had their attention, Gob hissed and grunted at them a few times before motioning towards the forest.


    cknail watched intently. He had no idea what any of those stupid sounds were supposed to mean. When he tried tomand the goblins it usually took him much longer. Gob was certainly very useful to have around, which unfortunately meant cknail couldnt kill him yet. The goblins muttered amongst themselves for a few moments before running off into the woods. One of them tried to stay behind, but cknail gave thezy critter a swift kick that sent him scampering off into the bushes. The little pest was probably going to sit down somewhere out of sight, but there was nothing cknail could do about it.


    Soon all the goblins had left except for Scamp and Imp. Both of them were still sitting over by the bandits. cknail briefly considered giving them both a kick and forcing them out into the forest as well, but Scamp was useless and Imp was still wearing his backpack. cknail was afraid an impact might cause something in the sack to explode.


    I hope you know what youre doing, Beardy remarked as he walked up next to Geralhd.


    cknail shrugged. Its Geralhds idea, so everything that goes badly is his fault.


    The bandits then fell into quiet conversation as they watched the vige from afar and waited for the goblins to return. It took a little over half an hour for the first of the green critters toe back. The goblin scampered out of the bushes and ran over to Gob with an excited gleam in his eyes. The hobgoblin and the goblin grunted at each other a few times, and then Gob turned towards cknail and pointed out into the forest.


    It looks like theyve found someone, Geralhd remarked.


    Lets see who it is, cknail replied eagerly as he motioned for the rest of the humans to join him.


    The hobgoblin had gotten sick of waiting around. Recently, when he stayed still he couldnt help but think back and reflect on his memories. This wasnt something he enjoyed. Whenever Saeters face came to mind cold rage red to life in his chest. It was only by keeping busy that he had managed to stay calm.


    When they were ready to move, cknail signalled Gob. The feral hobgoblin hissed at the goblin that hade back, and the pair began walking off into the forest. cknail and his human minions followed behind them silently.


    They circled through the thick greenery around the edge of the clearing for a few minutes. The goblin then sniffed an exposed tree root and veered off deeper into the woods. cknail eyed the surroundings carefully as they moved. It was faint but the dirt here had been beaten down and hardened by footsteps into a trail that led from the vige off into the woods. People were obviously using this path frequently.


    The goblin and the bandits followed the trail for a few minutes, until the sound of voices reached cknails ears. Gob noticed them at the same time, and both the hobgoblins immediately stared ahead towards the noises source. As he listened, cknail raised a hand to signal for silence and slowed his pace. He took extra effort to move quietly as he continued to walk forward. It sounded like only two people were talking, a man and a woman. cknail smiled. That was a perfect size group for the bandits to target, so he kept creeping closer through the underbrush, and soon he spotted his quarry.


    There were three humans, not two. One of them had simply been staying quiet. The first two were standing right next to each other. One of them was a blonde girl and the other was a brte boy. They were a few feet from the path and looking at something on the ground. There were several branches and bushes in the way, so the details were hard to make out but that much was visible. cknail crept up beside a tree and peered around the trunk to get a better look, but he didnt have any luck, so he switched to studying the third person. There was a second young man leaning up against a tree a few feet from hispanions. He was blonde and he had a look on his face that betrayed a mix of annoyance and disgust as he watched the other two.


    Apparently cknail wasnt the only one that noticed the boys expression. The other young man with brown hair did as well, and he spoke up. Why did youe with us if you are just going to re and make stupid faces at my back?


    You know the reason. Anyone going out into the woods needs to be in groups of at least three, the blonde young man replied.


    But were only a few minutes away from home. This is practically our yard!


    The rules still stand. You never know whats out here. The forest is a dangerous ce and I wasnt going to let my sistere out here without any real protection, especially with you.


    What the hells is that supposed to mean? the brte boy replied indignantly. There was a rustling as he rose to his feet, but the other boy just smiled.


    It means I dont think you can take care of yourself let alone others, and if you trip over a root and crack your skull then I dont want her to have to carry you back herself.


    There was a second of angry silence before the girl spoke up. Come on boys, stop arguing, its just silly. Lets have a good time.


    After that their voices grew quieter so cknail carefully retreated back to the rest of his party. He had heard and seen enough anyway. These people would make great hostages and would be easy to capture. They were clearly idiots with little in the way of survival skills.


    What did you see? Geralhd asked cknail when he got back. His voice was quiet and nervous. Behind him stood the other bandits and Gob.


    Three scrawny and weak-looking humans. Two males and a female, cknail replied.


    Great, lets grab them! Beardy said as he stepped forward. He didnt get very far though, because cknail sniffed disdainfully and got in his way.


    No, thats stupid. You cant just rush in there or they will escape, stupid.


    Then what should we do?


    Its obvious. You need to cut them off and encircle them, cknail exined as he raised a finger and drew a circle in the air. As everyone listened the hobgoblinid out his n. If there was one thing that cknail was an expert at it was hunting down prey, especially human prey. They were very predictable.


    When they were done nning all the humans split into two groups and headed off in different directions. cknail told Gob and the goblins to stay put, and then he followed after Geralhds group. A secondter, he spun back around and hissed at the goblins that were shadowing him until they ran back to Gob. The stupid creatures really needed to take some initiative and learn a propernguage so he could yell at them properly.


    Geralhd led his half of the group through the forest for a minute until they were well away from their quarry, and then they stepped onto the path and leisurely began following it back. cknail pulled his hood up and kept to the behind his human minions. He was supposed to stay out of sight so that his fearsome greatness didnt scare the humans too much, or something. He had forgotten the exact reason but it wasnt important.


    Before closing thest stretch and approaching the three youths, cknail raised two fingers to his lips and whistled to signal their approach. The sound was almost indistinguishable from that of a real bird, and from off in the forest there was a quick reply from the other party, so they kept moving. It hadnt been a very good reply, unless the signaller had been trying to imitate a bird that had died halfway through its song, but it served its purpose. Both groups were in position, and the three youths came into sight.


    Im telling you thatst birdcall was weird. We should head back. What if it was a harpy or something? the shorter brown haired boy told the other. The blonde woman was pressed up against him, and all three of them were standing on the path together and talking.


    There would have to be more than one harpy to threaten us, and they know better than toe near here. Every time one of those things shows their ugly face a hunting party is sent out to exterminate them. Our father still has a skull he got from thest hunt, the blonde young man replied. He didnt sound too concerned.


    What about goblins?


    Those stunted wretches, what about them? I know the old folks like to tell horror stories about them but thats all they are, stories. Were in no danger from goblins. Youre just being jumpy.


    Suddenly, the girl looked past herpanions and spotted the bandits walking their way. She froze as she studied them, and then she flinched and her mouth fell open slightly in shock. The two boys noticed her behaviour and turned to see what she was looking at.


    Oh, hello there! Geralhd greeted them. His voice was pleasant and he waved a hand in their direction. The men behind him also smiled, but in a far less friendly way. They were about thirty feet away now.


    The taller blonde boy was the one that replied. His voice stuttered nervously as he spoke and he had gone pale. He was clearly terrified but trying not to show it. Who are you?


    Im just a harmless traveller who has gotten lost and is looking to get some directions, and maybe some shelter for the night, Geralhd replied with a broad reassuring smile.


    The girl stepped closer to the other boy and hugged his arm tightly to her chest. She didnt seem convinced.


    And what about all the men behind you with the weapons? the blonde boy asked as he stuck out an arm and pushed the other two back behind him. All three of the youths then took a few nervous steps away from the bandits.


    They are my associates. The forest is a dangerous ce for a lone traveller. You dont need to be afraid of them, Geralhd replied in the same calm voice.


    It looked like the young humans were going to bolt off into the forest, but they didnt get a chance. There was a rustling sound as the other group of bandits stepped out of the bushes and onto the path behind the youths. The youngsters paled even more when they saw the neers. They were surrounded now, and they knew it.


    Those are also some of my associates, Geralhd said as the young woman began trembling.


    What do you want? the shorter boy asked as he held the girl and red defiantly Gehds way.


    I already told you. I just want to ask you some questions, thats all. We can all be friends, so why dont you sit down so we can talk, Geralhd answered. This time there was a cold tone to his voice that made it clear that he wasnt making a suggestion.


    All three of the youths stepped closer together. There was a desperate look in their eyes as they searched for an escape route.


    Sit, Geralhd ordered them as both groups of bandits closed in. All three of the youths immediately sat down on the ground. The rough looking and dirty bandits quickly took the opportunity to encircle them.


    If you harm us our parents and the others will hunt you down, the blonde haired boy exined. There were amused chuckles from a lot of the bandits. Khitasugh was one of the loudest, and her voice drew the tall blonde boys attention, and he clearly had no idea what to make of her because he frowned in confusion.


    I dont want to harm you, Geralhd reassured them as he crouched down so that their faces were almost level. I just want to ask you some questions and then maybe you can do us a quick favour and introduce us to your vige.


    The three youths exchanged nces before the girl replied. What do you want to know, sir?


    The question took Geralhd by surprise. He hesitated for a moment as he tried toe up with an answer. They hadnt actually nned this part.


    Um we just want to know about your vige, he eventually exined.


    There was no immediate reply so Elyias took the opportunity to lean down and ask his own question. Do you worship any strange gods thatmand you to murder outsiders or eat human flesh?


    No... um... we have a small shrine to Ter-vur, the blonde boy answered slowly. He had obviously been taken aback by the question, and now everyone was looking at Elyias weirdly.


    What kind of stupid question was that? Beardy asked the other bandit.


    An important one, Elyias replied defensively. Do you want to be eaten by cannibals?


    Before anyone else could speak up cknail stepped forward and asked his own question. Do you have cheese? The bandits had run out days ago and cknail dearly missed the taste.


    This time it was the girl that replied. A little? We have a few goats although thest cow died a couple years back.


    There was an exasperated sigh from Beardy, and before the hobgoblin could respond to the girl Geralhd red at him. Oh right, he wasnt supposed to be talking. Why had he agreed to that, again?


    Without anymore interruptions, Geralhd interrogated the captives about their vige. They were reluctant to talk about certain things, but soon a clear picture of the fortifiedmunity began to appear.


    It seems like a half decent ce to get some supplies and maybe spend a night, Geralhd observed. They have empty homes and they dont sound like a bunch of paranoid bastards we cant trust.


    Most the other bandits agreed and they soon came to a decision. They would risk trying to contact the vige and seeing if they could spend the night there. cknail went along with it mostly because it sounded much more exciting than staying out in the forest, plus they had cheese.


    Lets grab these younglings and get moving then, Beardy remarked impatiently.


    I volunteer to guard the girl on the way over, Elyias said as he leered her way.


    As if, greenhorn. Ill do that, an older bandit remarked.


    Ill watch her, cknail said as he stepped closer to the blonde girl.


    Er, why? I thought you werent into that


    Into what? cknail asked as he blinked in confusion. Why couldnt the humans just make sense?


    You know the older bandit replied as he made several crude finger gestures. cknail stared nkly at him. He had no idea what the bandit was trying to get at, so he just rified his own thoughts.


    Im much faster and a better guard than any of you, and the other two little people smell horrible.


    Ah, that makes sense, the bandit said as the two boys gave cknail hostile looks. Humans could be weirdly sensitive about their smell even though their noses were barely functional.


    The girl looked frightened by all the sudden attention. The captives had calmed down somewhat once it became apparent they werent about to be assaulted and murdered but they were still on edge.


    You should probably stay back and keep watch. Youre our best scout after all, Geralhd quickly interjected before lowering his voice to a whisper and continuing. And you promised to stay away from the captives! They cant learn that youre a hobgoblin.


    This caused cknail to snort in annoyance, but he didnt argue the point. Without a word, he moved to the back of the group as they got moving. The captives were in the middle of the party as they made their way back up the trail and towards the vige.


    The three youths werent the only nervous ones, though. Most the bandits looked uncertain and moved stiffly. Approaching the vige was something they had to do but it was also dangerous. They didnt know exactly what they would find there. Soon enough, they reached the edge of the woods and began crossing the clearing and the worked earth within it. Ahead of them, the settlement wall made up of wooden stakes loomed. Its hostile presence informing everyone that the vige was prepared to defend itself from outsiders.

 Hearts and Homes 2

    Hearts and Homes 2


    As they approached the wall in front of them, none of the bandits had their weapons out. They had taken pains to make themselves as presentable as possible after spending so long hiking through the forest. It hadnt really worked. They still looked exactly like what they were, a pack of desperate bandits that sane people should avoid.


    The captured youths that were now being herded by the bandits had said that there wasnt usually a lookout on duty at the gate, just a guard, and that seemed to be true. cknails group got right to the entrance before they were noticed. Geralhd opened his mouth to shout for attention when he was interrupted by a spiel of swearing from the other side. That was quickly followed by the hidden man there yelling for backup and crying for the vige to take up arms.


    This already could have gone better, Beardymented.


    Lets run while we still have the chance, Elyias muttered fearfully.


    Just let me do all the talking and well be fine, Geralhd said as they waited for someone in the vige to take charge. He didnt sound too convincing.


    It took a few minutes for that to happen, but eventually a gruff voice addressed them from the other side of the gate. Who are you and what are doing with those children?


    We are just some lost travellers who happened to stumble upon your humble abode here and thought to introduce ourselves, Geralhd replied politely. We mean you no harm, and we certainly wouldnt harm any children. We encountered them in the woods and thought maybe we could ask them some questions about your vige. We were just curious and theyre here with us now because I thought youd want them toe home after all thismotion.


    There was a disbelieving huff from the hidden man. So youll let them go at any time?


    Of course, although they cant exactly go inside as long as this gate is closed.


    Then how about you back up and leave them here.


    That would hardly be very gracious on your part, and speaking of manners, you havent introduced yourself.


    Im Tannin, the headsman of this vige. Other than a silver tongued liar, who are you supposed to be?


    My name is Geralhd Rhodeius, and its a pleasure to meet you, Tannin. Why dont you open this gate so that we can talk properly? I assure you that we mean you no harm.


    There was no reply for a few seconds but then Geralhd had to step back as the wooden gate in front of him swung open. On the other side there were about two dozen burly men armed with various improvised weapons, including wood axes and pitchforks. All of them were wearing the rough homespun clothing that most peasants wore. Standing out front was an older man with thick arms and a long grey beard. His head was balding and thin of hair but his eyes were full of fierce energy.


    Now, Geralhd, how about you let the childrene over and you tell us what is it that you really want? the man asked in Tannins voice. The bandits nced at each other nervously but didnt draw their weapons.


    We werent really holding them so of course they can leave, Geralhd replied as he signalled to the men behind him, who stepped aside.


    The three youths promptly ran away from the bandits and joined the vigers. The headsman rxed slightly when they reached him but he quickly shushed them and pushed them back behind his men where they were out of the way.


    See, we arent here to hurt anyone. We only want to have a friendly conversation, Geralhd said as he smiled politely.


    We dont get many visitors here and I have a low tolerance for bullshit, so why dont you get right to the point and tell me exactly what you want, Tannin replied.


    Fair enough. Mypanions and I are travelling East but we need to avoid the main road. We want to buy supplies, get directions, and rest here for the night.


    Tannins eyes narrowed as he studied Geralhd. And why should we let you in or deal with your kind at all? We could just close this gate and youd be forced to leave.


    Its a nice wall but its hardly a real guarantee of protection. Besides, if youre going to be that inhospitable to everyone that passes by then eventually you are going to anger someone. Such a person or group might stick around to cause problems for you and I really doubt you would want them spreading news of yourmunity around when they do leave. Youd be better off staying on their good side and getting something out of dealing with them.


    Ha, how do you propose to pay us for our goods?


    We have coin and a few extra small des we could trade. Isted as you are, I doubt you have much in the way of spare iron here.


    I might be able to arrange the things you want, but if we did let you inside what guarantee do I have that youll behave. You all seem to be armed to the teeth and that concerns me more than a little.


    There arent enough of us to attack this settlement, and making enemies out of you would onlye back to bite us. We have every reason to stay friendly.


    As the armed vigers watched the bandits, Geralhd and the vige headsman continued their talk for several long minutes. A dozen more armed vigers arrived to join their fellows, but Tannins expression grew less hostile and angry over time and he eventually decided to let the bandits in, and they began to bargain about the price. Things grew slightly heated when Tannin ordered the bandits to hand over their weapons but Geralhd didnt back down.


    Even armed we are still too outnumbered to take this vige, but without our des we stand no chance at all of defending ourselves if you decide to just rob us instead of sticking to your word, he argued. Tannin was unhappy with that line of reasoning but eventually conceded the point.


    Fine Ill show where you can bunk up and Ill arrange to see what we can sell you. Youll be under guard though, so dont wander around or cause trouble, the vige headsman said. cknail thought he detected a sly nt to his smile but didnt know what to make of it.


    Geralhd nodded in eptance and grinned triumphantly to himself. There were sighs of relief as the bandits began following the vigers deeper into the settlement. It seemed like a fight had been avoided, but as cknail fell in behind the bandits Geralhd turned and whispered his way.


    You should sneak away now, cknail. The goblins shouldnt be left alone and you can meet up with us after dark. Im sure you can make it into the vige and find us without being detected.


    His words sounded a bit too much like orders to cknail, so the hobgoblin scowled. Im the leader and think I should stay here and instead you should go meet up with the goblins.


    Yes, youre the leader... but theyre still suspicious of us and with your hood up you stand out. You cant hide your skin color from them, and if the vigers do turn against us then youre the only one who could sneak in and free us.


    That argument didnt sit well with cknail. He wanted to stay closer to the cheese, but he had to admit Geralhd had several good points. He grunted in aggravation and then quickly spun around. cknail was only a few steps from the gate, and it took him but a moment to slip back outside the wall. Several bandits were between him and the vigers so none of them noticed him leave. The cloaked hobgoblin crept around the outside of the wall for a bit - to avoid any watchers - before sprinting across the fields and towards the forest. He would be back when it got darker.


    The sound of singing birds could be heard from up in the treetops overhead, as cknail trudged through the bush. It was a fair walk back to where he had left the goblins, but after a few minutes some of the bushes up ahead shook and a familiar pair of goblins scampered out. It was Scamp and Imp, and Imp was still hauling his heavy backpack around. They must have been waiting for cknail to leave the vige and decided to meet up with him.


    Where are the others? cknail asked them. None of the feral goblins had appeared.


    Scamp immediately threw a look back over his shoulder and a confused frown appeared on his ugly green face. It seemed like he hadnt even noticed that the ferals werent around until just then. On the other hand, Imp just gave the hobgoblin a calm knowing look that irritated cknail.


    They left to follow a smell. Gob looked angry, Imp exined. He didnt seem too concerned, but then again he never did.


    Theyre not very nice so we stayed to wait for you, boss. Youre much better than them, Scamp added helpfully.


    This news didnt please cknail. Not only was he supposed to keep a watch on the goblins but Gob had acted without permission. This is what cknail had been afraid of and why hobgoblins couldnt be trusted! He could only hope Gob wasnt leading a raid on the human settlement at this very moment. He should have dealt with the other hobgoblin days ago.


    What way did they go? the hobgoblin asked.


    Both the goblins immediately pointed inpletely different directions. cknail groaned and rubbed his eyes. This was dumb. Was he going to have to go all the way back to the ce hedst seen Gob and track him from there? That would be a waste of his time and he probably didnt have much left.


    They went off into the forest away from the humans, Imp added, which caused Scamp to nod along. Both the goblins dropped their arms.


    That was an important bit of news. Imp was undoubtedly the smarter of the pair...


    Which way did they go again? cknail asked as he got ready to move.


    Unsurprisingly, the goblins pointed in different directions again, but this time Scamp was clearly pointing far to the left of hisst choice, while Imps orientation hadnt changed.


    That way it is, cknail grumbled as he broke out into a quick jog in the direction Imp had indicated. The goblins followed him as he cut through the forest and headed deeper into the woods.


    It took the hobgoblin a few minutes to stumble upon the feral goblins trail. Imp had apparently been right. They had made a lot of tracks and disturbed the forest. cknail picked up speed as he followed the signs and started running, but even then it took him over half an hour before he found anything.


    As the hobgoblin jumped over a fallen log he spotted the missing goblins. They were all crouched behind a clump of bushes and peering through the branches. cknail snarled as he saw Gob in the center of the group. He drew his sword and stalked toward the other hobgoblin. How dare he disobey an order! The noise drew Gobs attention. He looked over his shoulder and then flinched in terror at the sight of cknail closing in on him.


    What are you doing? cknail hissed angrily. He didnt appreciate having to run so much.


    Enemy goblin, Gob quickly replied as he lurched to his feet. There was an uncertain look on his face as he met cknails gaze but then he turned away to look through the bush again. cknail took a second to follow his stare. Whatever was there must be important, or this was some sort of trick.


    Up ahead the forest ended and gave way to a series of low rocky hills. Only a few scraggly trees spotted their deste surface. The terrain on the way here had been uneven and steep, so the area they were in now was hidden away within a low valley that was surrounded by tall peaks covered in greenery.


    At first, cknail didnt notice anything special about the ce, other than all the rocks, but then something caught his eye. He ignored Gob and came to a stop. There was a post at the bottom of one of the rocky hills, and a human skull had been ced atop of it. Its empty eye sockets stared out into the forest. Colored feathers had been jammed into gaps in the wood and weird symbols had been carved into the post below the bleached bones. Half the symbols looked like crudely drawn genitalia, so this was probably the work of feral goblins.


    Goblins attack goblin. Follow here, Gob exined.


    I see, cknail mumbled to himself before ncing back at his hobgoblin minion. He understood what had happened now. One of the goblins he had sent out to scout must have stumbled upon a goblin from another pack. The two had fought and then things had naturally escted until Gob had decided to raid the enemy himself and ughter them all.


    That left cknail with only one real option: total war. These goblins were his minions  even if he didnt really want them  so an attack on them was an attack on him, as well as a good excuse to have some fun. Besides, it was only a bit past noon now. It wouldnt be dark for hours, and cknail didnt want to sit around and wait. Geralhd had wanted cknail to keep the goblins out of trouble but he probably wouldnt care about something like a small tribal war, or ever even know about it. Who would tell him? Most of the goblins couldnt talk and Scamp was an idiot who rarely remembered anything that wasnt beaten into him repeatedly over a long period of time.


    The problem was that post. It wasnt something you would expect a small tribe to make, and Gob only had half a dozen goblins with him. The post was also too tall for a goblin to have ced that skull there alone, and teamwork was unlikely. Thus, it was most likely the work of a hobgoblin, and that would also exin Gobs aggressive behaviour. The scent of the other hobgoblin must have enraged him.


    Youre lucky I showed up, cknail told Gob as he sheathed his sword. Youre kind of runty for a hobgoblin, and its stupid to attack an enemy in their own territory without a n.


    cknail grinned to himself as he stepped through the bushes and began walking over to the post. He was still feeling angry, but now he had a new target to focus on, one he didnt have to hold back against. His hood was down and his hobgoblin features were inly visible as he strode out into the clearing. The rule about walking into enemy territory didnt apply to him. He was special.


    Almost immediately there was a reaction. Two dozen goblins rose from hiding ces atop the nearby hills and out from behind rocks. They growled menacingly and their ugly green faces were scrunched up into vicious snarls as they grabbed stones and raised them in preparation to throw. cknail calmly watched a single stony projectile zoom his way but it fell short and rolled harmlessly to a stop at his feet. With an amused grin, he then scooped the rock up and pulled out his sling. A twirl of the weapon sent the projectile straight back at its original thrower. It hit the surprised goblin right between eyes with a loud thud and knocked it unconscious. The other goblins fell silent as they watched theirpanion roll down the side of the hill.


    Now what will you do? cknail mused as he looked around for the enemy leader. He still hadnt shown himself. Gob and his goblins stepped out of the bushes and took up position behind cknail. The enemy goblins were starting to look afraid now.


    Nothing happened for several long moments as the two groups stared at each other, and cknail began to grow impatient. If the enemy wasnt going to show himself then cknail would force his hand. The hobgoblin drew in a deep breath and then bellowed as loudly as he could. The unexpected st of sound startled everyone, but as soon as cknail fell silent an answering roar rose into the air as the enemy hobgoblin finally stepped out from behind arge jagged boulder and into sight.


    Striking yellow eyes filled with hate red at cknail from atop a long crooked nose. The hobgoblin was bulky and taller than any other hobgoblin cknail had seen before, but his two horns were short and straight. Several long pale scars decorated his skin, he was dressed in dirty rags that could only have once been human clothing, and he was holding a rusty axe. It was clearly a woodsmans axe and its edge had dulled from neglect but it still looked dangerous.


    The hobgoblins appearance caused cknail to smile hungrily to himself. cknail was still outnumbered and in hostile territory, but it had been a while since hed had an opportunity to let loose. This looked like it was going to be fun, and deliciously bloody.

 Hearts and Homes 3

    Hearts and Homes 3


    The swarm of feral goblins red at cknail with hate-filled eyes. More and more of them were slipping into sight from behind rocky hills and grey boulders. Most of them gathered up behind their leader, the yellow eyed hobgoblin, until there were almost forty of them. They shook and fidgeted as they worked themselves into a fury and red at the intruders. In the center of the group, their hobgoblin chieftain watched cknail with his bright yellow eyes. He stood confidently but seemed willing to wait.


    Lets run away, Scamp said as he cowered behind cknail. He clearly regretteding out of the bushes that bordered the forest behind him.


    Run and Ill make you into a loincloth, cknail hissed in reply as he studied the enemy.


    This wasnt a small tribe at all, and they far outnumbered cknails own paltry force. Even with another hobgoblin to back him up they would quickly be swarmed over by the mob in a straight up fight. Even a good sword wouldnt stop an angry green wave. cknail wasnt too worried, though. It wouldnte to that, because that wasnt how goblins acted. They were only slightly smarter than humans, but they were far less likely tomit suicide for no real reason. Still, it would be a terrible idea to let the enemy have time or let them think they had the advantage. If they sensed weakness then the wild goblins would attack all together.


    Were going to charge. Follow me or Ill rip your guts out, cknail ordered his followers. He then eyed Gob and made an aggressive gesture that he hoped conveyed his meaning. The other hobgoblin didnt have a great understanding of how to talk.


    What? Scamp asked disbelievingly.


    Instead of responding, cknail drew his sword andunched himself forward. Another roar echoed out from his throat as he closed the distance between himself and his target.


    Die, you snotty runts! he yelled at the top of his lungs.


    The enemy goblins flinched in surprise. Instinctively, they huddled closer together for a moment for safety. The yellow eyed hobgoblin froze for a split second but then quickly raised his axe. This didnt faze cknail. He grinned savagely as he dove forward. Meanwhile, the massed goblins realized who cknails target was. The sudden noise and the attack startled them. Caught off guard, they didnt have time to do anything but react. Screeching filled the air as the goblins dove away from the charging hobgoblin. It was one thing for them to seek safety in numbers from an enemy but it was somethingpletely different to ce themselves directly between two fighting hobgoblins.


    cknail didnt waste this opportunity. He attacked the exposed enemy leader. However, one of the fleeing goblins was too slow, and didnt manage to get out of the way in time. cknail kicked him aside before stepping forward and shing at the yellow eyed hobgoblin. There was a loud thud as the hobgoblin pivoted away from the attack and knocked the sword de aside with a swing of his axe. The de bit into the wooden shaft but didnt do much damage and bounced back.


    The startled mass of goblins flinched away from the fighting like rippling water and dissolved into chaos. They didnt know what to do. Their leader tried to step back and strike at cknail, but he was too slow. cknail growled and lunged forward at the same moment. Both their weapons were still locked together. A shimmer of fear shed in the hobgoblins yellow eyes and he was forced to step back as cknail leaned forward and snapped at him. cknails teeth closed on empty air but the action startled everyone.


    Youre a big fish in a small pond, very small, cknail hissed through his teeth as he stared at his surprised opponent.


    A few enemy goblins that cknail had scattered decided to act despite their fear. Three of them jumped at him from the side, but that was when Gob joined the fight. With fists swinging wildly he waded into the fight and assaulted any of the goblins that tried to get close to cknail. The smaller fighters screeched as they were pushed aside by this new threat and then Gobs own minions rushed in to support him. The melee descended into chaos.


    One goblin did manage to get through, and cknail had to take a second to kick it away. This gave the enemy hobgoblin time to recover but cknail didnt care. He justughed manically as he turned back to face his opponent. The fearful goblins tried to stay out of their way.


    You have no idea what I am. You dont know how afraid you should be! cknailughed as he raised his de. The cloak draped over his shoulders rippled as he moved. It felt good to let his emotions out after controlling himself around humans for so long. Out here their rules no longer applied to him. He was free.


    The uprehending feral hobgoblin simply hissed and sputtered angrily in response. He didnt know what cknail had just said but the confidence he was projecting appeared to worry him. A shimmer of fear had appeared in his eyes, but instead of trying to retreat he attacked again. The yellow-eyed hobgoblin raised his axe up and swung it straight down at cknail.


    The blow didnt connect. A metallic ringing noise rang out as cknail parried the attack. He then stepped forward and slugged his yellow-eyed opponent in the face. There was a wet crack as the hobgoblin fell over backwards. His long green nose was now bent at an awkward angle and his eyes were wide with pain and surprise.


    A nearby goblin saw an opportunity and jumped at cknail from behind. He was gripping arge sharp rock in one hand. cknail saw himing, turned, grabbed his arm, and then used the goblins own momentum to toss him through the air and over a nearby pile of rock. Several other nearby goblins watched with impressed looks on their faces.


    The yellow-eyed hobgoblin once again tried to catch cknail off guard. From where he had fallen on the ground, he whistled sharply, and then a goblin that had been hanging back out of the fight rushed forward and tossed something his way. The yellow-eyed hobgoblin caught the javelin out of the air, and then he whipped it at cknails head as he jumped to his feet.


    The projectile zoomed past cknails face as he leaned out of the way. It all happened in a single instant, but cknail noticed that something had been smeared across the tip of the weapon. It was probably some sort of poison, and cknail made a mental note to watch out for such tricks. The enemy hobgoblin hissed in disappointment when his surprise attack failed. He reached down to pick up his fallen axe, but cknail didnt give him time to take a defensive stance. He extended the momentum of his dodge into a quick spin that ended with a sh of his sword.


    Im bloody magic! cknail hissed as his de sliced into his opponents shoulder. I have killed beasts and men far more dangerous than you!


    The cut wasnt that deep but the pain made the enemy hobgoblin gasp and waver. cknail had no mercy. It was time to end this farce of a fight. He unleashed a flurry of attacks that leapt past his enemys defenses and drew blood. His opponent stumbled again so cknail shed at his eyes. The enemy immediately ducked down out of the way but the attack had been a feint. As the yellow-eyed hobgoblin dropped, cknails booted foot smashed into his groin.


    There was a shrill squeak and a pop as the enemy hobgoblins eyes crossed and he copsed. He looked like he was in a lot of pain so cknail helped him out. Before he had even hit the ground, cknail swung his sword around in an arc and the tip of his de ripped the hobgoblins throat out.


    Ouchie, Scamp remarked from the edge of the fighting. There were groans and gasps of shock from many of the other goblins and all of them immediately stopped fighting. They all stared at the victor of the duel uncertainly.


    cknail took a moment to stomp on his fallen opponents body and end the annoying gargling sound it was making before turning to meet the gaze of the onlookers.


    All of you. Big goblins and small ones, you have no idea what lurks outside your territory, the things I have seen. You are all so petty and stupid, just beasts that live in the dirt, cknail said as sneered at the nearby goblins. They cowered and shifted nervously under his vicious gaze. Their fear amused cknail.


    Thats kind of mean, Scamp remarked. cknail ignored him since he was too far away to kick and that would ruin his moment.


    The joy of victory had lifted cknails spirits. All his previous doubts were as nothing. Why had he even cared about such stupid things? He was full of confidence and energy. He could do anything.


    I am the greatest of hobgoblins! A chief among chiefs! cknail screamed triumphantly as he stomped on his fallen foe''s body a few more times. Conquest felt good. A lot of Herads old actions made more sense now. He should do this more often.


    No one interrupted cknail, but after a few minutes standing around and gloating to a bunch of goblins got boring, so cknail stepped away from the yellow-eyed goblins corpse and looked around. An eager Gob walked over to cknail and gibbered something before motioning towards the nearby hills. He was practically vibrating with energy and his eyes were wide with excitement.


    Youre right, Gob. Lets go see what Ive conquered, cknail replied as he began to walk over to the nearest hill. There had to be air around here somewhere.


    As he searched the hills for a cave or crevice, the defeated goblins began to disperse. It was clear now that cknail wasnt going to try and ughter them all right this instant so they had things to do. One smallish local goblin with a bluish tint to her skin hesitantly wandered over to one hill and called out to cknail. When the hobgoblin looked over she pointed towards an opening. She was obviously trying to get on cknails good side by being his guide. That was fine with cknail.


    Closer inspection of the opening revealed a dark crevice that the yellow-eyed hobgoblin had apparently been using as his personal chamber. It was big enough to hold a dozen goblins but it looked and smelled like only the hobgoblin had slept here. There were few items stashed around the ce, but nothing more interesting than a few yellow rocks.


    Once he was done looking that cave over, cknails guide led him to several other small caves that were being used by the goblins. None of them caught cknails attention, but as they were walking, other local goblins approached him to offer the conquering hobgoblin tribute. cknail took most the berries and fresh meat for himself but passed the shiny stones and other such things to Gob. He had enough of that sort of stuff already.


    Thest cave he was led to was different from the others. The entrance was at the bottom of a hole near the post, and it took a second to climb down. This cave was muchrger than all the others and didnt look like the goblins had used it much. It was wide and extended deep into the ground until it ended at a pile of rubble. It looked like there had been a cave-in at some point. Unfortunately, it was hard to make out the details since it was too dark even for goblin eyes to see clearly inside. One small section of the wall did contain a bit of the yellow metal that humans liked, though.


    Once cknail hadpleted his inspection, he walked over to the tallest hill and took a seat atop of it. From there he could see everything in the rocky area and the forest beyond it. He was no longer feeling quite so euphoric but his mind felt clearer than it had during the march North. Gob and several goblins waited for him at the bottom as cknail began to think. Gob knelt there reverently and a few of the goblins copied him, although most of them just sat down.


    Now cknail was the chieftain of another bunch of goblins. Did that matter? Was that what he wanted? The joy of shedding blood and destroying his enemies had begun to fade. Taking this ce had been fun but staying here seemed boring. It couldntpare to being a part of Herads band. These were just goblins. There was no Saeter here, no sense of home. cknails memories still tugged at his heart. He had things to do; even if he didnt know exactly what it was he had to do or how to do it.


    The sky overhead had begun to darken as the sun fell toward the western horizon, and cknail sighed. It was time to get back to the human vige and the bandits. Who knew what sort of trouble they had gotten themselves into without him around? cknail took a few moments to exin to Gob that he was now in charge of everything while cknail was gone and that he didnt want to be followed. Gob appeared to reluctantly ept thismand, so cknail left everyone behind and sprinted off into the woods.


    cknail ran at a fast pace that soon left him out of breath, because he didnt want to take too long or be out in the forest when darkness fell. That was when things got truly dangerous. As he ran, cknail realized that he could just leave Gob and the others behind now and they would never bother him again. That was an idea worth considering. The goblins were more than a little annoying.


    After about half an hour, the hobgoblin reached the vige and its tall wooden walls came into sight. No ravenous beasts or monsters blocked his way. After waiting a few more aggravating minutes for the sun to set a little more and for the night to grow darker, cknail crept out of the bushes at the edge of the clearing and stalked across the empty fields. He reached the wall without incident and listened carefully for any sign of watchers before choosing a deserted-looking section of the wall to climb over. He took off his boots and his ws made the ascent simple. They dug into the soft wood and easily found purchase.


    The vige wasrgely quiet. Before proceeding, cknail took a moment to pull his hood up and put his boots back on. There didnt seem to be much in the way ofte afternoon activity here, unlike inrger human settlements such as Daggerpoint. cknail moved cautiously and kept to the shadows as he searched for Geralhd and the others. He hoped they hadnt all been killed. He already had enough dead humans to avenge, more important ones.


    The vige only had thirty or forty buildings of various sizes, so it didnt take the hobgoblin too long to find his first clue to his quarrys location. Several armed vigers were standing out in the middle of one section of the street and watching three nearby homes. cknail was pretty sure he knew what that meant, so he slipped into an alley and circled around to the back of the buildings.


    Once in the dark and tight space between the homes where no one could see him, the sound of conversation drew cknails attention. He snuck up to a ground story window and listened.


    Thank you again for your hospitality, master Tannin, Geralhd said.


    Ha, there is no need for stuffy titles out here,d. Im just another viger, and not a master of anything but myself, Tannin replied.


    Still Im grateful.


    Feel free, graciousness is never unwanted; however lets talk about something more important. You seem like a bright young man, so I bet youre wondering why I let you all in. Youre clearly not just a bunch of lost travelers, not armed like that youre not.


    We have no intention of causing trouble.


    Im not saying you do. The truth of the matter is that youre hardly the first bunch of miscreants to wander by, although youre thergest yet.


    cknail took a chance and peered through the window for a second. There was a small room on the other side, and no one was looking his way. Tannin and Geralhd were both seated at a small table across from each other.


    Er.. and what happened to those people, may I ask? Geralhd asked nervously.


    Tanninughed loudly in amusement and pped his thighs. Nothing too terrible,d. Im one of them. Anyone who wanders out in this direction has reasons to want to stay out of sight, and this settlement is always looking for more manpower.


    If thats an invitation to take up residence here we will have to decline. Several of our group are looking forward to getting back to civilization.


    Ah, thats too bad. You seem like a useful person to have around. Ill let you think about it overnight and discuss it with yourpanions, Tannin replied jovially as he stood up and pushed his chair aside.


    As cknail squatted in the alley and listened, a realization crystallized in his head. It had been nagging at him for weeks but only now was it clear. He didnt want to go to Daggerpoint. There was nothing for him there. Events had been forcing cknail to react and do what other people wanted. That was going to end. It was time he figured out what he really wanted and how he was going to get it. In the shadows, the hobgoblin began to n...

 Hearts and Homes 4

    Hearts and Homes 4


    Of course, the problem was all the humans. Their weird mental issues reallyplicated cknails ns. The tight alley was dark and shadowy as the hobgoblin leaned against the side of the building he had just been spying into. It seemed unlikely that anyone would stumble his way, so he had plenty of time to think.


    What did cknail want for himself? Food? Shiny things? No, he wanted to kill Werrick. cknails mouth began to water whenever he thought about it. The memories of Saetersst moments were still fresh in cknails mind, and they demanded action. Blood had to be paid with blood, but killing Werrick would be very difficult and dangerous.


    None of the survivors of Herads camp were anything like Saeter. cknail had travelled with the humans for a while now but it hadnt filled the hole in his heart. Going to Daggerpoint wouldnt satisfy him at all. His master couldnt be reced by anyone else. It was pointless to try. Only vengeance was left to him.


    Werrick would be difficult to kill, though. He was a powerful Vessel and he had a horde of minions. Being sneaky wouldnt be enough, which meant cknail needed more power, and the easiest way to get that was by increasing the size of his tribe. Werrick had arge army so cknail needed one too. Unfortunately, while that idea was very appealing, it would be hard to actually aplish.


    After observing his human minions for a while cknail hade to the troubling conclusion that most of them didnt like having him in charge. Even though he had done such a great job as their leader and saved their lives too many times to count they didnt trust him, and it was obviously because he was a hobgoblin. What a bunch of stupid herd animals.


    cknail sighed as doubt clouded his mind. There was no way he was ever going to build a human army the way Herad or Werrick had. Being the strongest wasnt enough. Did that mean his goal was impossible? Maybe he was just thinking about this the wrong way. What if he thought about this like it was a hunt? Yes, that could work. He had certain tools avable and it was all about using them correctly in order to corner his quarry. Most of the tools were humans, and they were defined by their fear and their greed. Controlling them was simply a matter of introducing the right type of motivation at the right time. He also had some other tools avable, like the goblins, even if they were useless for anything that required an attention span of over a minute.


    After going over his options for a while cknail was forced to take a break. The pieces werent falling into ce. He had hit a mental wall and while he had been thinking night had fallen around him. It was almost pitch ck outside now. The only noise was from far off night birds and the asionally rustle of a rat moving through the garbage behind the hobgoblin.


    Time to sleep. I can thinkter, cknail yawned. He then turned and climbed through the nearby window that led into the home Geralhd was using.


    The room on the other side was lit by a single flickering candle. Geralhd was still sitting in his chair at the table, but it looked like he had fallen asleep. He was slumped over and his chest rose and fell slowly as a quiet whistling sound issued forth from his mouth. cknail walked over and poked him on the cheek.


    Ah, what? the man eximed in surprise as his now wide open eyes jerked around the room before focusing on cknail.


    Its just me, be quiet, the hobgoblin replied as Geralhd visibly rxed.


    Oh, cknail, its you. I was waiting for you, but I was beginning to wonder if you were ever going to show up tonight.


    I had stuff to do, cknail said as he looked around the room and then peered through a doorway into the bedroom beyond.


    Well, I was talking to Tannin, this viges headsman, and it doesnt seem like theyre going to trick or attack us.


    Yes, I heard.


    If you were there then why didnt youe in earlier?


    There was someoneing so I had to leave, cknail lied smoothly as he walked into the bedroom and stared down at the bed that was up against the far wall. He walked over to it and began ruffling up the nkets.


    Actually, I was nning on sleeping there Geralhd muttered after getting up and talking to the doorway.


    cknail ignored him and sat down on the bed. The hobgoblins mouth stretched wide open as he yawned.


    I guess Ill just use the smaller bed in the next room, Geralhd said. He sounded quite annoyed but cknail didnt care.


    Did anything important happen while I was gone? You humans keep getting into trouble.


    Nothing much, except what I already told you. The n is that we take a day off to buy whatever we can and rest our feet. We can leave for Daggerpoint the next day.


    There was a creaking noise from the bed as cknail leaned over sideways so he was lying down. He kept his eyes on Geralhd and scowled slightly out of irritation. He was still the leader so he was the one who got to decide when they would leave , although another day to think up his own n would probably be enough. While Geralhd was here, cknail decided to ask him some questions. He had heard the man discuss something interesting with Tannin, and maybe a humans point of view would help the hobgoblin. Geralhd was the most human-like human cknail knew. He was slow to react, confused about everything, and loved saying pointless things that barely made sense.


    I give you all permission to do that, but I have some questions.


    Oh, what do you want to know?


    Tannin asked you if you wanted to stay out here in this vige, cknail pointed out.


    Ah, that. You dont have to worry about any of us wanting to stay out here. Only a few of our band would ever be open to that. Staying out here in the wilds isnt a very appealing choice. This ce is just a bunch of dirty shacks. Im a city man myself and I cant wait to get back to civilization, where people bathe and women have less facial hair.


    Hmm, whats the first thing you want to do when you get to the city? cknail asked. He wanted to understand the humans motivations a little better.


    Ha, thats easy. I want to hit up a tavern and purchase a hot meal and a hot bath. It will cost more than few coins but it will be worth it. Thats probably what most the band will do. We still have a fair bit of silver between us but we cant spend it out here, Geralhdughed.


    This answer greatly interested cknail. There was a new cheery shine to his eyes as he replied. Which minions do you think want to get back to a human city the most?


    Geralhdughed again before replying. He seemed to enjoy discussing the topic and thinking about civilization. While he was talking, cknail took a second to match names to faces and remember how much he liked those people.


    The hobgoblin and the man talked for a few more minutes before cknail yawned again and let Geralhd go. By that time, cknail had gotten the inspiration he had wanted. When he was alone, cknail took off his boots and coat. He curled up on his bed and smiled to himself before closing his eyes. He had a n now. The hunt was on.


    The next morning cknail got up before the sunrise. He got dressed and slipped out of the house before Geralhd was awake. While the other bandits where exploring the vige and getting ready to the next day, he was making his own preparations. He ran through the forest and back to the goblinsir where Gob was.


    When the rocky hills that concealed the caves below came into sight, several goblins that were climbing over them immediately noticed cknail and one of them let out a trumpeting screech. A few secondster, Gob hurried into sight and approached cknail.


    You are back, great chief! Command me, Gob said as he gave a quick respectful bow.


    Yes, your amazing leader is here, cknail replied as he stared appraisingly at Gob. Having another hobgoblin around had originally annoyed cknail to no end. There was just something wrong and dangerous about it, but after careful consideration he had decided that the advantages outweighed the disadvantages.


    cknail turned to look at the nearby goblins who were wandering around the clearing. This tribe was a lot bigger than Gobs old one. cknail wasnt even sure how many of them there were, but there were at least fifty. Several different groups of various sizes lived in the nearby caves.


    The n cknail hade up withst night would only work if he could somehow turn this chaotic goblin tribe into a useful force that would follow orders. It was going to be very hard, but cknail had a few good ideas that might work, and since he was the smartest hobgoblin in the entire world, if anyone could do it then it was him.


    After collecting his thoughts for a moment, cknail began giving orders to Gob. A primitive camp like the one here wouldnt do. A more secure base had to be built and provided with a steady supply of food. In order for all that to happen the goblins here had to be brought to heel, so the first thing cknail ordered Gob to do was to select a group of loyal followers he could stalk and force into obedience. Once they had been beaten into submission they were to be taught how to use traps and stone tools. Loyal lieutenants could be selected from their ranks which in turn would bring more goblins under cknails control. cknail was too busy and important to do that himself.


    Can I rejoin the humans now? I want to see Geralhd, Scamp whined as he wandered over and interrupted cknails conversation. Imp was right behind Scamp but he just watched the proceedings with his usual inscrutable expression.


    No, they dont want you, cknail replied scornfully.


    Thats not true. They pet me and give me tons of treats!


    They are with other humans who dont like goblins, so you have to stay here,


    Not fair!


    Shut up before I throw a rock at you, cknail threatened as he red at the goblin.


    I hate it here, everyone is so mean and the food sucks, Scamp muttered as he turned to leave.


    I didnt say you could go, cknail added as he reached down and grabbed Scamps shoulder.


    Eh? the surprised goblin said as he stared at cknail in confusion.


    You know a lot of human tricks, so help out or Ill string your puny body up from a tree by your slobbery little tongue.


    Herding goblins was a difficult task, and before cknail had aplished all that much the day began to approach its end. That meant it was time to get back to Geralhd and the others. cknail took a moment to stretch himself out before heading back into the forest. As he ran, the hobgoblin considered the next step of his n.


    About an hourter he arrived back at the vige. He got there without a problem and easily snuck back inside. Going over the wall was easy in the dark. However, instead of visiting Geralhd again cknail snuck around the town and met up with a few of the other bandits. He talked to them for several hours before slipping back into the house Geralhd was using and going to sleep.


    The morning of departure came and found cknail leading the way towards Daggerpoint. The sky was still dark overhead and the forest was a maze of shadows. They had left the vige at the break of dawn to avoid unnecessary attention. There was no wind but the early morning storm of bird song was at full force.


    Ha, I cant wait to get to Daggerpoint. I know we still have a long way to go, but it seems like were almost there to me, a short bandit with dark hair and a moustache announced happily. He was following right behind cknail.


    Dont say that. Now you just know some horrible beast is going to jump out of the bushes and attack, a taller bandit with fair hair replied.


    Oh, dont worry. Thats not going to happen, cknail replied before chuckling to himself.


    There was a brief pause before the fair-haired bandit spoke up. Youre unusually talkative today, cknail.


    Its a good day. Dont you agree? the hobgoblin asked as he smiled at the man.


    I cant argue against that. Its certainly seems like its going to be better than I thought it would. Im definitely richer than yesterday.


    There were only four men and cknail within sight. The hobgoblin was leading the way as they walked between a maze of tall trees. The earth was dark and soft where it was visible between the short broad-leaved nts that dotted the ground.


    Are you sure no one is going to catch up to us? Elyias asked nervously as he looked back over his shoulder.


    Yes, we arent following the same path as before and none of them are trackers, cknail answered.


    Some of the vigers could be half decent woodsmen, the mustached bandit pointed out.


    Theyre just humans, and I would hear them if they got close. As long as youre with me you dont need to worry about anything else, cknail replied.


    Thats right, theyre just a dumb bunch of peasants. The inbred dirt famers probably never leave their shacks, and weve got cknail with us. He has proven that he knows what hes doing.


    I definitely have a n, cknail agreed. It was nice to finally get some proper appreciation.


    The group of five bandits hiked through the forest for several hours. The sun rose in the sky until its light shone straight noon through the branches overhead. Up ahead, cknail spotted a hill through the trees. It wasnt a particrly tall mound but there was plenty of room to sit on top of it and it was nice and dry. A small creek with a rocky bottom ran through the trees and passed by the bottom of the hill. The bubbling water looked clear and clean.


    This looks like a good ce to stop. Theres a creek right there. Ill make stew, cknail announced as he put his pack down.


    Do we have time for that? We should probably keep moving, the mustached bandit replied.


    It will be quick. I have everything already prepared. I just need to heat the water,


    Still, we should save therge meal for supper. We can just eat a quick bite of dried trail food right now.


    I wasnt asking for your advice, cknail hissed. He stopped unpacking his bag for a second so that he could re at the man. Im stopping to make stew. You can walk off into the woods by yourself if you want. Are you going to do that?


    No Im not. Youre the boss, so lets eat, the man admitted reluctantly. He looked more than a little angry at being forced to concede. Normally, this would have annoyed cknail but the hobgoblin was in a forgiving mood.


    Yep, thats me. Im the leader, the hobgoblin agreed cheerfully as he tried to get a fire started. He had brought a bit of dried firewood with him for this exact purpose.


    The other bandits settled down to rest as cknail began cooking. The hobgoblin took his time and enjoyed the process. He liked the process of throwing ingredients into a pot and boiling it.


    I have to admit that I was skeptical of your n when you met with mest night, but its going perfectly, the fair-haired bandit said. We might actuallye out of this horrible trek through the woods with some real gains. I thought that when Herad fell we were doomed.


    Damn right, another bandit agreed. I just regret not being there to see that whinny wimp Geralhds face when he realized that wed run off with everyones coin and valuables!


    Split between just the five of us there is enough coin to have a proper good time when we get to Daggerpoint. This is a n worthy of a hobgoblin. Its cunning and merciless! I like it, the mustached man added as he grinned.


    Im very smart, and I didnt get anything out of guiding a bunch of idiots to Daggerpoint. So why would I do it? cknail said as he returned their smiles. He was practically blushing now from the unexpectedpliments.


    Elyias was silent as cknail passed out bowls of stew. He looked ufortable but also too nervous to talk. When cknail had recruited him for this betrayal it had been less of an offer and more of a threat to disembowel him and choke him to death with his own guts. It was only when cknail went back to stirring the pot without handing him any food that he finally spoke up.


    Um, wheres my bowl? he asked.


    You dont get any, cknail replied as one of the other bandits began coughing.


    What? Why not?


    Because I poisoned it, you pink idiot, cknail answered as he stood up.


    The other two bandits were both coughing as well now. All three were struggling to breath and their eyes were wide with fear. They grasped at their necks in a vain attempt to gasp down some air. One of them managed to struggle to his feet but the other two were writhing on the ground. cknail drew a knife and walked over to the man who was standing. The bandit desperately iled in an attempt to keep cknail away but the hobgoblin easily dodged the blow and cut the mans throat.


    Thats part one of the nplete. Now for part two, cknail eximed happily as the bandits died and Elyias watched on with horror.

 Hearts and Homes 5

    Hearts and Homes 5


    The corpse of the man cknail had just killedy on the ground. Blood leaked from his torn open throat. The other two men the hobgoblin had poisoned had also stopped choking and gone still. A mere minute ago, they had been talking in a friendly manner with cknail, and then the hobgoblin had killed them without mercy or warning.


    There was a look ofplete horrified shock on Elyias face. His eyes were wide with terror as he took a fumbling step back away from cknail. Oh gods! What the hells? Have you gone crazy? Are you going to kill me now? I knew this was going to happen, but no one listened to me. Oh gods, why didnt they listen?


    Youre fine, cknail reassured his minion. Didnt I tell you about this part of the n? I thought I had told you


    n? You cant just kill people!


    They betrayed the rest of the band, so its fine. Thats the kind of people youre supposed to kill. Herad did it all the time.


    You were the one that convinced them to do that! You led them out here, so youre just as responsible as them.


    Dont be silly. Im the leader; I cant be a traitor. It was a test and they failed, cknail replied as he rolled his eyes in a condescending manner. Humans sure could convince themselves of some crazy things.


    Elyias stared ck-jawed at cknail. He didnt seem to know what to say at first but then he opened his mouth. Why did you bring us out here if you were just nning on killing them? It makes no sense. Youre insane!


    It makes lots of sense, too much sense for a minion like you, cknail answered. Youre here to help me carry things, and I brought them out here because they were in the way of my n.


    What n? Is it to see how many humans you can lure out into the woods and murder? Elyias yelled. His voice echoed through the trees.


    No, thats dumb. That n is forter. I dont want to kill you humans. Youre part of my tribe and Im trying to help you.


    By lying to us and poisoning our food?


    Phh, Im trying to help <em>most</em> of you, the ones that deserve it. Like you, youre a good minion. Arent you? cknail asked as he stared meaningfully at Elyias. The human minion got the message.


    Er, yes? he responded carefully in much lower voice.


    Good. Going to Daggerpoint through the forest was just a stupid idea. We all would have died, cknail replied. Elyias was always fun to have around. His reactions were so amusing and he was easy to control with threats.


    You still havent exined your n at all.


    And Im not going to right now. Theres a lot to do and you need to get to work.


    Despite the mans obvious reluctance and residual fear, cknail ordered Elyias to help him move the bodies somewhere out of sight and to gather up their valuables, including all the coins they had stolen from the other bandits.


    What do you even want all this money for? Elyias asked as he picked up thest coin purse.


    Nothing. I just dont want other people to have it, cknail replied.


    When they were done, the hobgoblin led the way back. Elyias had no option but to follow him. They were in the middle of the forest and Elyias wasnt anything remotely like a woodsman.


    Shouldnt we have gotten back by now? Elyias asked after a few hours of hiking at a steady pace. He had arge pack on his back and the effort of carrying it had tired him out. His brow was sweaty and he was breathing heavily.


    We would have reached the vige if that was where we were going, cknail answered without slowing or turning around.


    Where are we going? Elyias asked in surprise. He didnt sound happy.


    Youll see soon, cknail replied.


    After only a few more minutes of walking, the pair arrived at the caves where the goblins lived. Gob was standing at the base of one of the hills and supervising a group of goblins. He noticed cknail right away and hurried over to meet him.


    Where did all these goblinse from? Elyias asked cknail as he looked around. There are a lot more of them here than before. Even goblins dont breed this quickly.


    I conquered them. It was a great battle! I had to fight a ten foot tall hobgoblin with a poison spear, cknail replied proudly.


    Do hobgoblins get thatrge?


    Of course. I think I know more about hobgoblins than you, cknail replied.


    Alright, but what are we doing here? Why didnt we go back to the vige?


    Im not doing anything here. Im leaving. Youre going to stay here, though, the hobgoblin exined.


    What? Im not staying out here with a bunch of goblins!


    Im the leader so you dont have much of a choice.


    You cant just imprison me!


    Yes, I can. Im the leader and you betrayed the tribe. If you try and run Ill hunt you down and skin you alive.


    Elyias was overwhelmed by indignant horror. He could only gape as Gob arrived and cknail turned towards the other hobgoblin.


    Guard this human. Make sure he doesnt go anywhere and keep this gear safe. I dont want any goblins stealing anything, cknail told Gob as he shoved Elyias his way.


    Nothing appeared about to explode or catch fire so cknail saw no reason to stick around. It was alreadyte in the afternoon. He dropped all the stuff he had taken from the bandits hed killed and got ready to leave.


    Yes, chief, Gob replied as he nodded and grabbed Elyias shoulder. The smaller grayish hobgoblin was being his usual obedient self, but Elyias still seemed to find him threatening.


    Hey, where are you going? Gods damn it all. You cant leave me here! What if they eat me? Elyias wailed.


    Dont let anyone eat him, cknail yelled at Gob as he began to jog away. There was a wordless scream of frustration from behind him but he ignored it.


    The next stage of n was to talk to Geralhd again. cknail ran back over to the vige. He was really doing this way too muchtely. All the running back and forth was getting very tiresome. When the hobgoblin reached the clearing that contained the vige, he pushed aside the bushes and saw something unexpected. There was a figure sitting on a chair over by the gate. After peering at the man for a few seconds cknail realized it was Geralhd. He didnt appear to be injured or in distress, so why was he sitting there?


    What was going on? This wasnt something cknail had predicted would happen, and it certainly wasnt part of his n. cknail had been nning to wait until dark and then sneak back in, but somehow a stupid human had already managed to mess things up. The hobgoblin stared at Geralhd for a few seconds before shrugging, pulling up his hood, and stepping out of the forest. He didnt really have any other option but to go and talk to the man.


    Tentatively, cknail walked over the barren fields and into sight of the walls. Before he got halfway there was a sudden jerk of movement from Geralhd as the man noticed cknail. He jumped to his feet and stared at the hooded hobgoblin.


    There you are! Thank the gods. I was afraid you had disappeared as well. Ive been out here for hours. I didnt know what else to do. Im sorry I missed the meeting this morning but some unfortunate events urred, Geralhd eximed as cknail walked closer.


    Geralhd had missed the meeting this morning as well? That was convenient. cknail had originally been nning on iming he had been distracted by a crisis. He had spent a fair amount of timeing up with the best excuse possible - like getting into a fight with another hobgoblin - but apparently that had been aplete waste of time.


    You answer my questions first. What are you doing out here? the hobgoblin asked as he threw a suspicious nce towards the vige walls. There was probably someone watching from there.


    I had to get your attention somehow. There are things you need to know and I didnt want you trying to sneak into the vige.


    cknail stared at Geralhds face. The man didnt seem suspicious at all, and he actually even sounded apologetic.


    Whats going on? the hobgoblin asked coyly. There was no point incriminating himself.


    Four of ourpatriots disappeared this morning. We think they stole some things and then ran off. As if that wasnt bad enough, the whole mess has made Tannin unduly suspicious of our group. He has the entire vige on lock-down, which is why sneaking in would be a terrible idea.


    cknail tried to look surprised and outraged. They took stuff and headed off into the forest, by themselves? Who? Why?


    Rhgalt, Helf, Elyias, and Abjar are gone. The sons of whores must be headed back to civilization by themselves. I dont know what they could possibly be thinking but they couldnt have gone anywhere else.


    Elyias? That traitor! I thought he was loyal. I have been betrayed, cknail hissed dramatically.


    I thought they all were. Have you seen any sign of them?Geralhd asked.


    No, but I can check for their trail. If they left towards Daggerpoint there will be signs. Do you want me to hunt them down or will we all go after them together when we leave?


    Geralhd grimaced before replying. We wont be leaving anytime soon.


    What? cknail asked with fake outrage. This actually sounded exactly like what he had been aiming for.


    On top of the stealing, the deserters also destroyed quite a few pairs of boots and other gear. Following after them would be very hard, if not impossible, Geralhd replied. cknail had to hide his smirk. He had enjoyed cutting that stuff up.


    How long of a wait? cknail asked as he pretended to glower angrily.


    Geralhd grimaced and looked ufortable before replying. Thats the thing some of the men want to stay for a while now. The men who left were some of the most vocal advocates of leaving, and without any coin even if we get to a city we will basically be on the streets. Laying low here for a while sounds pretty tempting to some of the men and women, especially since Tannin has made it clear that we are wee.


    So we arent leaving?


    Probably not anytime soon, no.


    You dont get to decide that! Im the leader, and I dont want to stay here, cknail hissed furiously, if ingenuously.


    I uh... dont think we have much choice. I certainly dont enjoy the thought of dwelling out here in these boonies for a second longer than we have to. They dont even have an inn! Its nothing but a collection of shacks, but whats the other option? We have no money.


    The first solution that popped into cknails head was that they could rob someone. That was an activity they had some experience with. However, bringing that up wouldnt serve cknails purposes, so instead he took a step forward until his face was only a few inches from Geralhds and growled. Fine, but you all owe me. This is a debt that must be paid.


    Geralhd flinched as the hobgoblins hot breath hit his face. There was a hint of fear in his eyes as he responded. Um, what do you want?


    Cheese, cknail whispered fervently as he stared into Geralhds eyes. The vige has cheese and as long as we are here you and the others will bring it to me.


    Not a problem. Im sure I can get that for you, Geralhd replied nervously as he took a step back.


    A smile appeared on the hobgoblins lips. His n wasing along perfectly, and his cheese supply had been acquired. Youd better. Now exin why you met up with me in sight of the vige. Thats not very sneaky.


    Like I said, Tannin is paranoid. I had to negotiate to leave the vige at all. He thinks we might have allies hiding out in the forest and that were nning to attack the vige from within and without at the same time. I had to reassure him that there was only one person out in the forest and that I needed to talk to him.


    You told him about me? cknail asked. Geralhd had been the one telling the hobgoblin to keep his presence a secret.


    I told him youre a ranger that hates being around people and didnt want to stay in the vige. The story is that your face was mutted by a run in with a bear and thats why your voice is so unique. You can keep your hood up and rap a scarf around your jaw when you meet him.


    Meet him? Why would I do that?


    Um yes I had to promise him a quick conversation with you, so that he would know I was telling the truth. It shouldnt be big deal. Well just head to the gate and you can say a word or two.


    This wasnt part of cknails n. He didnt think it was going to be too big of a problem though.


    Fine, the hobgoblin agreed as he pulled on a pair of gloves. Geralhd handed him a scarf which he then wrapped around his face.


    That done, the pair got up and headed over to the gate, which began to open as they approached. Someone had indeed been watching. When the gate swung open, Tannin stepped out. The bearded older man had a smoke pipe in his mouth, and there was a hard expressionless look on his face as he studied cknails hooded form.


    See, theres no reason to be concerned. Its just as I exined. There is no one out here but our scout, and he is no threat to you or yours, Geralhd said with false cheer as they came to a stop in front of Tannin.


    That remains to be seen, the older man replied before turning back to cknail. So youre this mysterious scout of theirs. I thought I noticed one of you slipping away yesterday, and the young ones mentioned a creepy cloaked fellow.


    Yes, cknail replied in his best imitation of a human voice. Its high hiss-like tone still left something to be desired.


    Youre not exactly talkative, are you?


    No.


    Tannin grunted in dissatisfaction. I hear youre a sodomite.


    Geralhd let out a startled cough. cknail didnt react. He wasnt familiar with that word, but it sounded like an insult. Normally he would have responded violently to such a disy of disrespect, but he was trying toy low and killing or injuring Tannin would probably ruin his ns. Cheese was worth a few unkind words.


    What? Preposterous. Why do think that? Geralhd asked with obvious surprise.


    The youngssie you kidnapped before, Joan, mentioned some of the things your bunch said around her. Like how this one here wasnt interested in women.


    Thats a misunderstanding, and arge one. Like I said, cknail just isnt social at all. His injuries were rather extensive


    cknail, thats an interesting name. I dont believe youve mentioned it before. Tannin said as a sly smile appeared on his lips.


    Yes, the hobgoblin responded dead-pan. Tannin was clearly trying to annoy him so that he would talk, but that wasnt going to work because cknail was too smart. Also, he still had no idea what they were talking about. Every time cknail thought he had learned every human word they came up with a new one.


    cknail is but a silly nickname. We all have them, Geralhd said as he shrugged. He had obviously intended for the gesture to look nonchnt but he couldnt disguise his nervousness.


    Oh, it sounds like there is an interesting story there. Care to share it?


    I have a ck toenail, cknail exined slowly.


    I see Tannin responded cautiously as he puffed on his pipe. He seemed to be at a loss for words.


    There was a few seconds of silence as both Tannin and cknail stared at each other. Neither one of them spoke up and a hostile atmosphere began to build up. Their staringpetition was interrupted by an unexpected yell from someone within the vige.


    cknail, there you are! Khita shouted as she ran over.


    The young redhead was smiling joyfully. cknail felt a shiver of dread work its way up his spine, and Tannin frowned at the intrusion. He clearly didnt know how to handle the young woman.


    I was beginning to think you were avoiding me, Khita said as she came to stop in front of the hobgoblin. cknails answering grimace was hidden by his scarf. He had been avoiding her.


    So you and this man are friendly, are you? Tannin asked with obvious interest.


    Of course, we go way back, Khita replied cheerfully. Weve fought together a dozen times, and his master used to train me as well.


    No, cknail said.


    His master? Tannin enquired before blowing some smoke from his pipe. He looked thoughtful.


    She means Saeter, the ranger that trained him, Geralhd quickly interjected.


    Was this before or after he was maimed by the bear?


    Before, Geralhd responded just as Khita said, after.


    There was an awkward moment of silence and Tannin grinned smugly. He obviously wasnt convinced by Geralhds cover story.


    This is all beside the point. Khita shouldnt be here, Geralhd argued.


    Shes half the reason Im inclined to trust your group. If you truly meant me and mine harm then I doubt she could keep it a secret from me, Tannin replied.


    Well, then you should extend that same trust to cknail. He really is just a ranger that likes to keep to himself. Youve met him and had a nice little chat so he probably wants to leave now, Geralhd argued.


    Yes, cknail agreed sinctly.


    Ya, lets go, Khita added.


    We? the hobgoblin asked as he experienced a growing sense of horror. He needed to get out of here.


    Well, Im not staying here while you have adventures. That stupid kid Hassiol keeps bugging me, and these dirty bumpkins want me to do chores.


    We <em>are</em> giving you a house. How do you expect to earn a living without working? Tannin pointed out in exasperation.


    Its not my fault this stupid mud heap isntrge enough to support a proper gang.


    Why would we want a street gang? Tannin replied as he glowered at Khita.


    It doesnt matter, because Im joining cknail. I can be a forest ranger with him and scout out all the secret trails while we find hidden treasure.


    This idea didnt seem to impress any of the other people listening to her. The young redhead had managed to annoy and drive everyone else to exasperation in under a minute. There was no way cknail was going to let her apany him.

 Hearts and Homes 6

    Hearts and Homes 6


    Are we almost there yet? Khita asked cknail as she ducked under a low hanging branch.


    Yes, I already told you that! the hobgoblin hissed in response. This was the third time he had answered her annoying question.


    Then howe we havent gotten there yet? We should have if we were actually close.


    Because thats not how it works! Shut up and walk.


    It hadnt even been an hour yet and cknail already wanted to kill Khita. He really wished Gerahld hadnt exined all the reason he couldnt. Tannin would be highly suspicious if she disappeared and that would ruin all of cknails ns. Why was he never allowed to kill Khita? It was if the world was trying to keep her alive just to annoy him.


    Were here, cknail hissed as he stepped out of the bushes at the edge of the forest.


    The rocky hills that made up the local goblinsiry in front of them. Khita took a moment to look around after pushing a bush aside. The young redhead was wearing tall slim boots that went up to her knees and a leather vest over her long green shirt. It was the same outfit she had worn during the trek North but it had been washed and patched.


    This is a terrible secret base. Its just a bunch of rock piles, Khita replied as they began walking toward the hill. They had attracted the attention of quite a few goblins but they all recognized cknail and kept their distance. None of them wanted to attract his attention. Khita also didnt seem too disturbed to see the goblins either. cknail had to speed up his pace in order to prevent her from walking ahead.


    I just conquered it. It will get better soon, cknail replied defensively. What did she expect? A fortress?


    They passed through a pair of hills and the center of the clearly came into sight. Gob was standing on a t patch of rocky earth there. The hobgoblin was surrounded by a squad of goblins. Each of these goblins was holding a spear and standing straight. Gob noticed the neers but after ncing at cknail to make sure he didnt need anything he turned back to the goblins he was teaching and went back to work.


    Wow, you didnt waste any time before rounding up the local goblins. There sure are a lot of them, Khita remarked as she looked around. She didnt seem scared at all, even though she was among so many unfamiliar goblins.


    They started it.


    But you ended it, like the bloodthirsty boss you are, Khitaughed. So what are you scheming? I know you, cknail. Theres no way you werent involved in everything thats happened. Youre up to something. It looks like youre building a goblin army here, and I dont think Geralhd would approve.


    I''m not plotting anything. Thats dumb. Youre dumb. Shut up, cknail quickly replied as he tried to look innocent. Im just hanging out in the forest and doing normal hobgoblin things like umm sleeping?


    Ha, I dont believe that for a sharp sliver of a second. Youre plotting something. Youre like me. Youre a scrapper and you cant stop until youre the king of the heap.


    Nope, Imzy and want to sleep all the time. Its all I do.


    Really? So you havent lied to anyone and you arent nning anything?


    I just told you so. Impletely trustworthy.


    Then why is Elyias right over there, when hes supposed to be with the deserters? Khita replied.


    cknail turned to look in the direction she was pointing. Elyias was indeed right there. He was surrounded by another small squad of goblins with spears that appeared to be herding him towards cknail. Scamp was leading the group as they headed towards cknail. His chest was puffed up proudly as he swaggered forward, and it looked like he was in charge.


    Oh, its you. Did you get yourself kidnapped as well? Elyias called out when he noticed Khita. He sounded depressed but he looked fine. The goblins hadnt hurt him.


    No, I asked toe here. The vige was boring and full of mud-brained bumpkins, Khita answered.


    Really? Then youre the dumbest person Ive ever met. I knew you werent the straightest of arrows but thats just crazy.


    Im not the one thats being pushed around by a bunch of naked goblins, she replied scornfully.


    Scamp smiled and waved at Khita and she returned the friendly gesture. The little goblin looked quite happy to see Khita. He ran over to her side and Khita gave him a pat on the head.


    Khita! Scamp eximed cheerfully as he hugged her leg. I missed you!


    I missed you too, the young redhead replied.


    I knew you would. Do you have any food? Scamp asked as he looked up at her with a sad begging expression on his face.


    Before anyone else could distract him, cknail spoke up in amanding voice. I think Elyias should be quiet. If he talks those goblins will probably poke him painfully with their spears. Goblins do that. The hobgoblin emphasized certain words to get his meaning across.


    Huh? Elyias said as a goblin suddenly poked him in the ribs. Ow, stop that. Ow.


    The stone tipped spears didnt prate his shirt, but the goblins kept poking him every time he gasped in pain. It seemed like it was going to be an endless cycle.


    No, only if he talks, cknail hissed in frustration.


    He is saying ow, Scamp pointed out from where he was watching.


    That doesnt count.


    Scamp shrugged and then made several grunting noises. The other goblins lowered their weapons. Elyias red at them but kept his mouth shut.


    Take him away for now. Ill talk to himter, cknail told the goblins. Right now there are more important things I have to do.


    Sure thing, boss, Scamp replied. He then walked over and gave the nearest goblin a forceful push before leading the other goblins away. He seemed very proud and happy to have assumed a leadership position within the tribe, even if he was only really a trantor.


    Lets get back to what we were talking about before. You were exining your n, Khita said when Elyias group had disappeared behind one of the nearby hills.


    No, I wasnt, cknail replied. He wasnt going to fall for that. He was too smart.


    So you admit to having one?


    No, I dont! I have never admitted anything. You have the wrong person.


    Khita rolled her eyes. She didnt seem convinced. She was obviously too stupid to understand him properly.


    Youre right. Youre not sharp enough toe up with a good n. I bet your n is really stupid.


    Thats not true. My n is the best ever!


    Oh, what is it?


    Im going to Wait, this is another trick, cknail replied uncertainly.


    You may as well tell me. I already know about Elyias and you just confessed to having a scheme in motion.


    Elyias proves nothing. He got separated from the others and lost in the woods when they left. Some goblins found him and brought him here. Im hiding him because the others are angry and Im such a great loving leader, cknail growled in exnation. He had known the two humans would probably meet if Khita followed him, so he hade up with an excuse earlier.


    I dont believe that for a moment. Youd bleed him dry if he betrayed you. There isnt a shred of mercy in your body, cknail. You may have the others fooled but not me.


    She had a point about hisck of mercy. It was also clear that Khita was not going to believe his lies, no matter how convincing and well thought out they were. That was alright, though. He had a backup n for dealing with her and it was more fun anyway.


    cknail took a sudden step towards Khita. The unexpected movement caught her off guard and she flinched. The hobgoblin grabbed the front of Khitas vest and pulled her forward. His strong grip kept her off bnce as he red at her. Their faces were only a few inches apart.


    What? she eximed. She sounded mad but also nervous. cknail didnt reply right away. Instead, he growled for several long seconds. His lips rose to reveal his long jagged teeth. Fear shone in Khitas eyes but instead of trying to pull away she went perfectly still. Her reaction satisfied cknail. It was time to scare this girl into line. He was the great cknail and she would do was she was told.


    Listen, little human. I am the leader here, the chieftain, cknail hissed as he stared into her eyes. His face was twisted up into the most menacing visage he could muster. If you tell anyone anything about my ns I will hunt you down. I will pry your eyes from your skull and slurp them down while I cut off your delicate fingers and chubby little toes. Obey me or suffer.


    Khita didnt move. Her face was so pale it seemed almost frozen, but as cknail watched it came back to life. The fear faded and Khita smiled excitedly. This wasnt the reaction he had been hoping for.


    Anything you want, cknail. You can trust me. Itll be just like before the battle, except now youre the big boss.


    The urge to groan and throw his hands up in frustration welled up in cknail, but he resisted it. He just gripped Khitas shirt tighter and shook her a bit. No, Im not trusting you with anything! Im just scaring you into silence. Be scared!


    Meh, its all the same. Youre just like my brother. All his yelling and threats were just to toughen me up so I would get stronger. Thats how I knew he cared.


    Her response bbergasted the hobgoblin so much he wanted to w at his own eyes. cknail was beginning to suspect Khitas rtionship with her brother had been more than a little abnormal. The hobgoblin tried to think up some way he could get his point across without leaving any incriminating marks on her, but nothing urred to him. He let out a frustrated hiss as he let Khita go. The young redhead caught herself and then casually brushed the front of her shirt off.


    So, are you going to tell me your n now? I want to help.


    Fine, as long as it will shut you up, cknail hissed in reply. He had given up. There was no way he was going to tell the redhead all the details of his scheme but she could probably be trusted with some of it. Her particr type of crazy stupid meant she was unlikely to betray him.


    Youre building a goblin army arent you? Youre going unleash a horde of green killers and conquer the North!


    What? No, thats stupid. Goblins make terrible fighters. Theyre too small and cowardly.


    Gob is training a bunch of goblins to fight right over there. I can see them.


    cknail snorted and waved dismissively. Thats just discipline training so they will work harder and smarter.


    Then what is your n? Khita asked. She sounded disappointed that there would be no screaming goblin horde invading the North.


    I will kill Werrick. Herad and him fought over territory. My mistress lost but I will fulfill her wish and take everything from Werrick. cknail exined proudly. Although he hid it, the hobgoblin felt a twinge of embarrassment saying all that aloud.


    Ha, I knew it! There was no way you were going to run away from the Wolf. Youre not a spineless wimp like the others. So whats the n if you arent using goblins?


    I do want a few goblins and hobgoblins, but not an army. I want a group that can move faster and sneakier than humans. Then I will strike at Werrick from the shadows and prey upon his minions, cknail answered as he grinned savagely. He was really looking forward to it.


    You wont beat him that way. He can afford to lose a lot of men. Hes the top dog around these parts so all the weaklings flock to his side.


    Im not stupid; I know. Thats just the first part of the n. Once Im famous I will use other humans against him.


    How will you do that?


    I will tell youter if you behave, cknail replied. Hopefully, that would motivate her to keep her mouth shut.


    Fine, then at least tell me what you doing here in this camp right now so that I can help out. Oh, I should get a tour!


    cknail shrugged in response. That actually didnt seem like a terrible idea. He might even be able to find some make-work for her to do that would keep her out of trouble while he told Elyias what he was allowed to say. He didnt want Khita learning everything. cknail led the way and they walked around the camp. He showed her the highlights and most important parts.


    And this is another cave. Its not the biggest one but its very dry.


    Is there anything here but rocks and caves?


    Goblins, lots of goblins, cknail answered.


    Khita groaned. Well, Ive seen enough damned caves. What is Gob up to?


    I have him training goblins how to hunt using traps,


    Then why are most the goblins he is talking with holding spears?


    Those are to use against other goblins. The stupid runts need to keep the stupider runts in line or they will steal from the traps. Dealing with goblins was as frustrating as dealing with humans but in apletely different way.


    As they walked over to Gob, cknail exined that he was building a core of loyal goblins that would keep the others in line. That was almost as important as training trappers, since goblins werent very diligent workers unless they were being threatened with physical punishment or they were the ones that got to deal out the physical punishment. He also told Khita about the foragers he had sent out to gather materials. Gob was nning on building a longhouse like the one he had built at his oldir. Poles made from young trees would be tied together using rope. Thankfully, several of the goblins that hade with Gob knew how to make rope from nt fibers and they were teaching others. The ropes were also an important part of making traps and tools.


    The pair stopped a few feet away from the circle of goblins around Gob. They watched the goblins working at their tasks. None of them seemed to be doing exactly the same thing. Some were clearing making tools of various kinds while others were simply watching as Gob hissed at theirpanions. cknail let out a nostalgic sigh as he watched. He himself was a master of rope-making. He had spent a long time learning such skills under Saeter, and he was nning on putting that knowledge to good use now. Everything he had been taught would help him get his vengeance.


    What are those goblins over there doing? Khita asked as she pointed to cknails left.


    The hobgoblin turned to see what she was talking about. Someone had built a fire pit at the base of one of the nearby hills. Two goblins sat next to a ring of stones that contained a small fire. Arge t-sided rock jutted out of the hill behind them. It formed a small cliff like wall, and there was a pile of branches piled next to it. cknail instantly recognized one of the goblins. It was Imp.


    What are you doing? cknail asked as he walked over.


    Imp looked up and gave cknail a nk look before answering. Im helping burn things.


    This piece of information didnt rify anything. Imp had always made cknail ufortable. He was a weird little goblin and cknail really didnt understand what went though his head. He was always watching silently from somewhere or doing inexplicable things.


    Why are you burning things? cknail asked.


    Practice, the other goblin beside Imp replied as he turned to smile at cknail.


    This new goblins eyes glowed with feverish excitement as they reflected light from the fire. He was an average sized goblin that cknail had never seen before. His body was slightly on the skinny side and his skin had a pale grey cast to it. He had messy reddish brown hair that covered the top of his head and orange irises. If anything this new goblin looked even weirder than Imp. cknail hoped he wasnt a mage. That wouldnt likely end well.


    I like your hair! Its a great color, Khita remarked cheerfully as she studied the goblin. She then reached down to pat him on the head and mess up his hair. The goblin didnt appear to know how to react to this. He flinched and threw Imp and cknail confused looks. cknail just shrugged in response.He didn''t know how to deal with Khita either.


    I bet he doesnt have a name! Can I name him? Khita asked cknail. She didnt wait for an answer. I think it should be Ferrar!


    cknail opened his mouth and started to ask her why she had chosen that name, but he stopped when he realized he didnt really care. Khita answered anyway. It means fire or something in Old Imperial, so it matches the color of your hair!


    Why are you two really making fire? cknail asked the goblins. He still found them suspicious even though Khita had distracted him.


    They are probably cooking or something, Khita said.


    Its not time to eat yet.


    We will need itter. Fire is important. Imp answered matter-of-factly. cknail didnt disagree, but he wasnt sure they were thinking of the same things.


    An idea suddenly popped into cknails head. While it wasnt time to eat quite yet, it would be soon. Arge part of his n was to feed the goblins a lot so that they would stick around even when he made them work, but he didnt have a pot to make stew. Sending Khita to get one would get her out of the way for a while so he could talk to Elyias and get some work done.


    I need you to go get a big pot from the vige so I can cook. Geralhd owes me, and I will send some goblins to help you, cknail told her.


    Fine, this tour has been boring anyway, but I want to take Ferrar with me, Khita replied. cknail turned to look at the goblin in question. He was poking the fire with a stick and giggling as sparks shot up into the air. In his other hand he was holding a steel fire striker that Imp had probably given him.


    Alright, but dont burn the vige down, cknail replied warily. I need those humans.

 Hearts and Homes 7

    Hearts and Homes 7


    The vige of Shelter didnt end up burning down, although cknail had been sort of been expecting it to. Khita and the goblins returned with arge iron pot and without causing amotion. The goblins kept to the woods and never went near the settlement, or anything mmable.


    I just walked up to the gate and asked for it, Khita told cknail. Geralhd found one for me as soon as I told him that you sent me. He also gave me this.


    The young redheaded woman passed cknail a small wrapped up parcel, which he quickly unwrapped. There was a small wheel of yellow cheese inside. It had been far too long, almost a week. cknail felt his eyes began to water as joy overwhelmed him, although it might have been caused by the poignant smell wafting off the cheese. It was a very strong blend.


    It looks like youre trying to inhale that, Khita remarked as she took a step back and pinched her nose.


    cknails nose was pressed against the wedge of cheese. He took a deep breath and just enjoyed the blissful aroma for a second. Even several of the nearby goblins gave him strange looks but he didnt care. After licking his prize a few times the hobgoblin wrapped it back up and shoved it into his coat forter.


    You brought the pot so now Im going to cook up some stew! cknail told Khita. Its an important part of my n!


    Oh, well, I need to borrow a bowl or something because I didnt bring any, Khita replied. cknail stared at her for an awkward few seconds.


    Bowls right, he mused to himself as he scratched the side of his nose. He hadpletely forgotten about those. He had one for himself but that was it.


    In order to eat stew his goblin minions were going to need bowls as well. You couldnt eat soup or stew without something to put it in. This was a pain because cknail was fairly certain none of them had any. How could his minions forget something as simple as bowls? It was annoying how dumb they all were.


    Do you think anyone would get suspicious if we asked the vige for a hundred bowls? cknail asked Khita.


    Ya, I think that would get some of them thinking. Can you make your own?


    How?


    People usually make them out of wood or y. You could try that.


    You mean I could get goblins to make them out of wood or y, cknail rified. He wasnt going to be making bowls for stupid little goblins. If goblins couldnt be forced to do physicalbor then what was the point of them?


    None of the goblins here use y or whittle? Khita asked.


    Nope, cknail answered after a second or two of thought. He hadnt seen any evidence of that.


    The hobgoblin knew what y was. Saeter had once pointed it out to him at the bank of a stream. The grey material had definitely been one of the better tasting types of dirt, but that wasnt saying much. cknail vaguely knew that humans made stuff out of y but he had no idea how. Khita didnt know much about it either and it sounded tooplicated to figure out quickly. He also had no y to work with.


    Its toote to work. Im going to eat, cknail announced as he headed over to the fire pit Imp and Ferrar had made. Both goblins were once again sitting and watching the fire.


    cknail couldnt cook any stew but that wasnt the only thing he knew how to make, it was simply the best. The goblins Gob had been training had been stockpiling food. There was a rack covered in rabbits and squirrels from the traps that had been skinned and drained of blood, and there was a pile of edible roots and leaves. cknail looked over the ingredients for a while before deciding on a recipe.


    I need Wakev leaves, cknail mused to himself.


    The nts hadrge fan-shaped leaves. They themselves werent edible but you could cook things in them for vor. The short stubby nts were also verymon and grew on the ground. cknail rounded up several goblins and sent them out to harvest the leaves. He also sent a goblin to bring over Scamp and Elyias.


    You two can help me cook, the hobgoblin told Ferrar and Imp. He didnt n on doing all the cooking himself and the sooner he taught others how to do the sooner he could make them do it for him. As disturbing as these two goblins were they also were among the smartest of his minions.


    Yes, chief, Imp replied as he stood up and walked over to cknails side. Ferrar continued to stare at the fire for a few more seconds before smiling at cknail and getting up. Scamp and Elyias then appeared.


    Watch and copy what I do, if you can, cknail told everyone there.


    Yeah, grunt work! At least it beats sitting around or following Scamp, Elyias huffed indignantly.


    As his minions watched, cknail began cutting up the meat and the veggies on a nearby t rock. He didnt n on putting too much effort into this, sorge chunks were good enough. He chose a pale round root and some small spicy leaves to add to the mix, and left the other veggies for another time. When the goblins started dropping off the leaves, he mixed the ingredients together and wrapped them in the leaves to make small packages.


    After he was finished with the first serving, all the others began chopping and sorting. They quickly got quite a few wraps down so cknail hung them above the fire using a rack made of sticks and twine.


    That smells pretty damn good, Khita remarked.


    Of course, Im amazing at everything, cknail replied confidently as he took a seat on a nearby rock and rxed. Now get back to work.


    Soon, the rest of the goblin tribe began to gather as the smell of the food drew them in. By the time the first bit of food was done cooking there were dozens of them. cknail handed out cooked parcels to all of Gob''s overseers and everyone who had helped cook.


    Yummy! Scamp dered as he started eating. The goblin only stopped eating in order to smugly look down on the goblins that hadnt gotten food yet.


    Why are you putting so much effort into cooking for these goblins? Elyias asked. He sounded like he had epted his situation for now.


    Its motivation so they learn and stay loyal. Now they know why they are hunting, cknail exined as he chewed.


    A small riot broke out behind him. A mob of goblins that hadnt gotten food yet banded together to raid a smaller group that had. Screeching goblins wrestled and bit each other as they fought for the food. cknail didnt interfere. He just smiled contentedly and nodded proudly to himself. It seemed like the goblins enjoyed his cooking. As the humans got clear Gob intervened with a squad of overseers. They started indiscriminately beating all the fighters with the butts of their spears.


    No fighting here! The great chief has blessed you with yummies! Rejoice! Gob yelled as he kicked a goblin out of sight.


    The fighting soon stopped and order was restored. Night began to fall and the rocky clearing grew dark as everyone finished eating. The fire was still burning brightly in the middle of the goblin mob but no one was still cooking. cknail decided that there was little point in staying up so he decided to go to sleep for the night. He had a cozy new cave to try out.


    Where am I supposed to sleep? Khita asked when cknail got up and started to walk away. Elyias and Scamp had already imed another small cave as their own earlier.


    I dont care, cknail replied before yawning. He was definitely starting to feel tired.


    Dont be like that. Theres plenty of room here in this cave, Khita remarked as they arrived at the entrance to the cavern.


    cknail briefly considered chasing the annoying redhead away but he didnt feel like going through the effort. His cave was also more than big enough for the two of them.


    Fine, but youre sleeping over there, cknail replied as he pointed to the other side of the cave. Khita yawned and nodded in agreement. They both unrolled the nkets from their pack and went to bed.


    Early the next morning, cknail got Khita up and went back to work. There was a lot of things that needed done in order to fix up this camp. Khita had been right when she had called it just a pile of rocks. Herad and Saeter had built their old base camp from nothing into a small vige and cknail nned to do the same. He had sort of been paying attention to most the things they had done.


    What are we doing now? Khita asked after she had gotten dressed and they had both eaten.


    We still need bowls. Lets try making wood ones. Maybe it will be easy! cknail announced as he went to find a suitable piece of wood.


    It wasnt easy. It only took a few minutes to find arge enough branch and to cut it down, but trying to whittle it into shape proved very frustrating. cknail used the axe he had taken from the in hobgoblin and his own knives. As he had been taught, the hobgoblin had cleaned and sharpened the axe as soon as he imed it. It had known it would be usefulter.


    This is stupid, cknail huffed as he tossed the piece of wood he had been working on away. It was shaped nothing like a bowl and still had some bark attached to it. There was no way goblins were going to be able to make bowls using stone tools anytime soon and cknail wasnt going to waste any of his knives by giving them away.


    There must be another way, he growled as he turned to stare at Khita. Humans made civilization seem so easy. cknail refused to fail at bowl making. He was pretty sure that was one of the simpler things humans made, but he had never been taught how. All the humans he knew had just carried the things around with them, or they had killed another human and taken them.


    Um, Ive heard some people in the West drink from skulls, Khita suggested hesitantly.


    That was an idea. cknail liked it. The top of peoples heads were just the right shape to hold liquids. Why hadnt this idea urred to him right away? It was so obvious.


    Great, but where can I get so manyrge skulls cknail mused.


    There were a few lying around but not nearly enough. The only creatures around in sufficient numbers and with big enough heads were goblins. Killing a few dozen of them to make dishes seemed wasteful though, and might cause problems with recruitmentter. Maybe he could find another tribe and start a war? Still, cleaning those skulls seemed like a lot of messy work.


    We will collect skulls but they wont be enough, cknail admitted in defeat.


    Since he hadnte up with a solution to his dishware problem the hobgoblin decided to focus on making food that could be eaten by hand for now. Preserving meat was first on that list.


    While Gob continued to train the goblins how to hunt and make rope, cknail picked out a few of the smarter looking ones and began to teach them how to smoke meat. It wasnt all that hard, so even goblins could do it. The first step was to dig a hole a few feet deep. Firewood was ced at the bottom and then sticks were inserted into the sides of the hole up above that to make a grill for the meat. Green branches from pine trees were ced over the top to keep most the smoke in. The important part was having an overseer around to poke goblins that tried to eat the meat, and making sure the overseers themselves werent hungry.


    Two goblins actually volunteered to help with the smoking, Ferrar and Imp. Both of them walked over and began to copy the goblins cknail was instructing. At first the hobgoblin was tempted to chase them away since they were so creepy, but they both quickly mastered the skills. They were too useful to chase away, even if they were super suspicious. Ferrar probably just wanted to y with fire, but cknail had no idea why Imp ever did anything.


    Soon, the pair of goblins began teaching the others and cknail took the opportunity to step away. He was a leader now so he never worked at anything unless he couldnt find someone else to do it, besides there were other important things he needed to do.


    cknail looked around the goblinir. The center of the rocky hills he had conquered through strength had already changed a fair bit. It had beenpletely bare before but now there was arge fire pit and several racks where meat was hanging. Signs of habitation were everywhere.


    Another thing that cknail noticed was that a lot of the food left over fromst night had disappeared. Even some of the uncooked roots were gone. That was annoying but hardly surprising. They had been left unattended in the middle of a goblin settlement after all. cknail decided to do something about it. He found the coldest cave and kicked all the goblins out of it, although there were only a few there since it was so cold. Next, he had all the food that wasnt being used moved into the cave, and then told Gob to post a guard at the cave and another at the drying racks at all times. Exercising his amazing leadership skills left cknail feeling very proud of himself.


    Im bored. Lets do something interesting now. I followed you out here because I wanted excitement! Khita told cknail as she walked over to him. She had wandered off somewhere earlier.


    Alright, I feel like hunting. You cane. Just be quiet and try to learn, cknail told her.


    Great! Lets go. I hope we run into something dangerous, like an ogre.


    That was the exact opposite of what cknail wanted and he said so. I hope we run into something useful, like a poor lost cheese merchant.


    After walking back over to his cave, cknail grabbed his gear. He took a water sk, some jerky for a snack, and his bow. The sky overhead contained a scattering of white puffy clouds but there was still a lot of blue to see, and there was next to no wind.


    I need a bow. I lost mine way back, Khita observed.


    Then you need to find or make a new er, cknail hissed dismissively. She didnt really need one anyway since she was mostly there to carry stuff for him. Khita tried to argue but cknail shushed her.


    No talking in the forest. You have to be quiet while hunting, he told her. It was even sort of true.


    There was a small stream that ran along the western edge of the clearing. The hobgoblin decided to follow it North, away from the human vige. He hadnt actually been out that way yet. This part of the forest waspletely unknown to him, so he wanted to explore it. There might be interesting or useful things there.


    Like on the other side of the camp, the terrain was rough. The same tall tree-studded hills rose off in the distance and hid the horizon. The morning chatter of birds echoed through the forest as cknail and Khita walked along the edge of the stream. The trees here werent very tall, and they only formed a patchy canopy overhead that let a lot of light through. Most of them were evergreens with brown trunks. They didnt have much in the way of branches near the ground to block cknails sight, so he could see clearly in most directions.


    The stream cut its way through the earth as it rushed down a series of hills. Its winding banks had long ago exposed the asionalrge grey rock, but the water was surrounded mostly by hard packed dirt and the roots of trees.


    After a few minutes of hiking, a sh of movement up ahead caught cknails attention. He raised a hand to signal for Khita to stop, and began to creep silently forward. cknail climbed up the steep bank of the creek and up to the trees. He hid behind the closest tree trunk and then peered out from behind it. Up ahead and around the bend, there was a deer drinking from the stream. The beast looked like a fully grown doe with brown fur and white spots on its nks. cknail grinned as he drew an arrow and readied his bow. He had found some worthy prey.


    Without wasting another second, the hobgoblin stepped out from his hiding spot and lined up his shot. He let the string go and his arrow zoomed straight towards his target. It mmed into the deers neck. The beast screeched and took off like a shot. It scrambled down the slippery bank of the creek and out of sight. It was wounded but far from dead yet.


    Did you get it? Khita asked breathlessly as she ran up beside cknail.


    Yes, lets go, he replied.


    cknail jumped down to the creek and ran over to where the deer had been standing. He scanned the muddy soil there and then sniffed it. There were clear hoof prints visible and drops of blood were scattered around. He had the creatures scent and he knew it was bleeding. The wound he had given the deer was fatal. It wouldnt get far before it lost strength and faltered.


    What now? Khita asked.


    Now you be quiet again and follow me, cknail hissed as he began to jog after the deer.


    He had no doubt in his ability to track down his wounded quarry. Even without his amazing sense of smell he could clearly see the trail of broken branches and hoof prints it had left. The only question was whether something unexpected would happen. Another predator might appear or they could stumble into something else deadly. The forest was a dangerous ce, and the hunter could quickly be the hunted if they werent wary.

 Hearts and Homes 8

    Hearts and Homes 8


    The sound of rushing water grew louder, as cknail tracked the deer he had shot through the vibrant green forest. Khita was right behind him as he ran along the edge of the stream. cknail knew he was going the right way. The beasts muddy hoof prints were in to see, and the scent of its blood was thick in the air. The smell excited cknail. Hunting down wounded prey was always a red hot rush. He wanted to drop down to all fours so he could sniff the earth as he moved. He suppressed that urge but he couldnt stop himself from salivating in anticipation of running down his bleeding prey. There was no escape from him now. Soon, the deers sweet flesh would be his to feast upon.


    The creek he was followingy at the bottom of a shallow gully, and it continued to wind its way past rows of short evergreen trees until it suddenly ended up ahead. cknail approached the spot where the water disappeared into thin air and looked down. There was a cliff below him and the stream at his feet rushed over its edge and became a roaring waterfall. The white water fell for thirty feet or so before mming into a wide pool below. Mist spread out from the base of the waterfall and washed over the pools rocky shores. The air here was cool, humid, and full of energy.


    Khita walked over to cknails side and started to say something, but the hobgoblin elbowed her in the stomach and she shut up. He was scanning the scene below carefully and he didnt have time for the redheads stupidity. A momentter, he looked away from the pool and to each side. The forest continued on his left but he saw no sign the deer had gone that way. To his right, the ground sloped downwards and there was a path down towards the bottom of the cliff. Almost immediately, he spotted a stter of dark red blood on a rock there.


    "This way, he hissed quietly to Khita as he headed after the deer.


    The roaring of the waterfall drowned out almost all the other noises. Even cknails long sensitive ears were a little deafened, so the hobgoblin was wary. He carefully observed his surroundings for movement as he stalked forward into the rocks. It wasnt until he reached the bottom of the incline that he spotted something. Something brown was poking out from behind arge triangr rock. cknail crept silently over to get a better look and got ready to draw his sword, just in case. However, the identity of the object soon became obvious. It was the deer. It had copsed at the base of the rock, and its still chest indicated that it was no longer breathing. cknails arrow was still sticking out of its now blood-stained neck.


    We got it! Khita eximed happily when she walked up behind cknail.


    We? the hobgoblin grunted in reply. It seemed like the hunt was over. He was almost disappointed that it hadnt been more exciting. Some real struggle from the prey would have been nice.


    Lets get out of here before somethinges to try and steal our prey, cknail told Khita as he scanned the nearby trees suspiciously. The deer was his prize now, and he didnt want some big fatzy beast stealing it.


    It took a fair bit of time and effort to get the deer carcass back to camp, but most the effort was Khitas, so cknail didnt care. This was the reason he had allowed her toe, to carry things. On the way, the pair spotted a few deposits of grey y along the stream bank. It seemed like procuring y wouldnt be hard. Now they just needed to figure out what to do with it.


    That wasnt cknails first concern, though. The priority was skinning and butchering the deer he had just brought down before it went bad. He also wanted to use this opportunity to teach his minions, so he rounded up hisrger followers. Khita was already with him so he went and found Gob and Elyias.


    They watched as cknail dragged the carcass over to an empty spot near the drying rack and got to work. First, he slit the dead animals throat and hung it up so that the blood would drain out. Blood went bad quickly and would taint the meat. Next, he took out a knife and began to cut the skin away from the flesh. He had ns for the pelt so he tried to keep most of it in one piece. The bloody work quickly drew a small crowd of curious goblins. cknail ignored them, and when the hide came free he put it aside and started to butcher the animal. His knife split open the animals guts and he reached in to pull out all the organs.


    Gob diligently watched everything cknail did. Goblins usually just ripped their prey apart and nibbled them down to the bone so this was all new to him. Khita had done simr things a few times before when she had been learning from Saeter but Elyias was a city boy. He scowled in disgust as cknail worked, especially when the intestines were pulled out and dumped into a steaming pile on the ground.


    The final step of the butchering was to cut the carcass up into smaller pieces. cknail used his long knife to cut off the deers hunches and strip the flesh from the bone. When he was done there wasnt much left of the deer but its detached head, squishy organs, and bloody bones.


    See, even idiots like you can do it! cknail told his minions as he plucked the eyes from the animals skull and slurped them down. They were the nice and chewy reward for his hard work.


    I will remember everything you have done, great chief. A hundred deer will beid at your feet, Gob replied as cknail nodded happily. That was the kind of enthusiasm and drive he liked in his minions.


    Ha, cknails right, you two are dumb as bricks, Khitaughed. For some reason she thought she had been excluded from hisment.


    I hate you all, Elyias cursed.


    However, cknail had already turned away and was busy nning his next job. Having all this fresh meat in front of him just reminded him that he still needed to figure out how to make bowls. The deers bones would have added vor to a stew.


    Do any of you know how to use y? he asked the others.


    You mean baking it to make pottery? Elyias replied uncertainly.


    The young man didnt much know more than Khita, and Gob just stared uprehendingly at cknail and shrugged. cknail groaned. Of course, none of them were useful. As usual, he was going to have to do everything himself.


    You need to go back to the humans and find one that can make bowls from y, the hobgoblin told Khita.


    And what do I do when I find such a person? Khita asked.


    Learn from them, or if its too hard bring someone who knows back with you. I can meet them.


    What if they dont want toe?


    cknail frowned thoughtfully before replying. I can talk to them at the vige, but if they try to keep y making secret from me then I will sneak in and grab them when it gets dark. They will talk.


    Sounds like a n, Khita answered as she smiled and rubbed her hands together gleefully.


    Why does that excite you, and whose side are you on? Elyias asked in disbelief.


    My own. I dont owe anyone anything, Khita snorted. This caused cknail to nce her way.


    Except maybe cknail. Weve saved each others lives more time than I can count, she quickly corrected herself. cknail was sure she couldnt count very high, but he let thement go.


    The young redhead didnt waste any time in heading back to Shelter. cknail sent Scamp and a couple goblins with her to keep her out of trouble and so that she could send him a message if they needed to meet upter. When she was gone, cknail let Gob get back to his own projects and started tanning the hide of the deer he had caught.


    With Elyias help cknail scraped the remaining flesh from the underside of the hide. When all the flesh and fat had been removed they took it to the creek and washed it thoroughly. The hide was then stretched out the drying rack and tied in ce so that it wouldnt shrink. That was all they could do for now since it would take a few days to dry.


    Since Khita wasnt back yet, cknail decided to wander around and see if there was anyone that needed bossing around. After yelling at a few goblins that werezing around he stumbled over to where Gob was working. The other hobgoblin had finished training the overseers and teaching goblins basic skills, so now he was building a structure of some sort.


    Gob had been sending out goblins to collect materials for a while now. He had built up a stockpile of twine, bark, and poles made from slender trees, and now he was using them to create a longhouse. cknail had seen the small one Gob had created at his old tribesir, and this new one looked like it was going to be a fair bit bigger. He already had the frame of the building up. Poles had been stuck into the ground, bent to form an arch for the roof, and tied into ce. They werent all up yet, but when they were therge strips of bark would be tied to them to form walls. The finished building would be afier ce to sleep than in a cave.


    While Gob was working cknail decided to procure some of his materials in order to build himself a bed. A few pieces of lumber would make the frame and he could pile some dry nts on top to soften the surface. Gob looked up but didnt say anything as cknail begin to drag several poles away. He put them down near the entrance to his cave and then used the axe to cut them up. He had just about finished when Scamp ran over.


    Khita found some people who know the thing you want to know, the little goblin eximed excitedly as he ran in a circle around cknail. They want to meet at the vige.


    Scamps bbering wasnt very clear but he probably meant that Khitas mission had been sessful. It was good that they apparently didnt need to kidnap anyone, but cknail still had some concerns.


    How many people? cknail asked.


    Um, she didnt say, Scamp replied as he stopped running in circles.


    The hobgoblin nodded and went into his cave to grab his backpack. He opened it, put on gloves, wrapped a red scarf around his face, and pulled his hood up. If he was going back to the vige then he needed to disguise himself. When he had finished dressing, cknail hid a few extra daggers around his person. He didnt trust the humans of the vige and wanted to be ready to fight his way out.


    With that done, cknail headed out into the forest. He jogged through the trees at a steady pace until he spotted something out of ce. Several sets of paw prints crossed the trail he was running along. cknail took a second to crouch down and study the tracks. They definitely belonged to a pack of wolves. Normally that wouldnt have bothered cknail too much, but one set of prints was muchrger than any he had seen before. cknail looked up and scanned the forest around himself nervously. Only when he was sure there was nothing nearby did he lean over and sniff the ground. There was something off about the smell of the prints as well. An out of ce mineral scent simr to that of Mahediums workshop lingered where the animal had been. Disturbed, cknail got up and studied his surroundings again. He didnt like this development, but the forest seemed normal, so he got up and began running again. Just to be safe, it would be a good idea to start sending his minions out in groups now, especially Khita, at least until he wouldnt be med for her death.


    The rest of the trip to the vige was uneventful. cknail reached the area of clear ground that surrounded the vige. He eyed the front gate suspiciously for a few moments before sauntering out of the woods and crossing the fields. There was no point in being sneaky.


    Open up, cknail shouted as he pounded on the door.


    Gods above, man. You dont need to raise such a ruckus, the guard replied as the entrance swung open.


    Im here to meet some people, and not to do anything unfriendly or suspicious, cknail said as he stepped inside. He was out of practice when it came to talking to humans.


    So Ive been told, the man replied as he gestured for the hobgoblin to go on.


    cknail didnt need any further invitation. He quickly walked past the man and into the vige. There were a bunch of small houses lining the main street and an older woman bustled by, but he didnt see Khita anywhere. The young redhead was supposed to be waiting for him. Where was she?


    Feeling very annoyed, cknail concentrated on listening for her voice. At first he didnt hear anything, but then he heard augh that sounded like it hade from Khita off in the distance. The hobgoblin scowled and stalked towards the source of the noise. He slipped into an alley between two homes so that he could stay out of sight. Another closer burst ofughter allowed cknail to pinpoint Khitas location, so he lengthened his stride. A few secondster, he turned a corner and saw her standing in front of a shed thaty behind a house, and she wasnt alone. cknail recognized the faces of the three young humans the bandits had used as hostages when they had first arrived at the vige.


    Ya, Ive been in around a dozen battles and killed at least twenty men, Khita bragged. She was facing the three smaller humans and there was a proud look on her face.


    Really, that sounds so terrible, the blonde girl gasped in surprise.


    Nah, Im not afraid of anything, Khita replied dismissively. It was all the other bandits that were terrified of me and my sword skills!


    cknail remembered Khitas sword skills quite clearly. He had trained alongside Khita under Vorscha, so he knew that when she had a sword in hand Khita was most dangerous to herself.


    Did you ever see any real magic? the taller blonde boy asked. He sounded excited and curious, but he was looking to the side as if trying to prove that he didnt care all that much.


    Sure, I saw tons of magic! Khita answered. Our band had a mage and a few Vessels. The mage was always throwing ming balls of fire around.


    Vessels are real? I thought they were just exaggerated stories, the youngerd with short brown hair remarked.


    Of course they are real. Youve even met one, Khita replied as she rolled her eyes.


    With sudden haste, cknails hooded form stepped out of the shadows and headed for Khita. She had said more than enough already, and it was time to shut her up before she revealed something important. He was almost directly behind her so she didnt see himing, but herpanions did and they froze in surprise.


    Eeep, Khita squealed as cknail ced a hand on her shoulder.


    She spun around to see who it was and only rxed when she recognized cknails distinctive clothes. An awkward smile forced its way onto her face.


    So youre not afraid of anything? cknail chuckled as he stepped up beside her.


    I wasnt afraid; I was just on guard, Khita countered.


    cknails the only person who can sneak up on me like that. We both trained under the same master ranger, she quickly exined to the others.


    Greetings, Mister cknail. Khita has told us a bit about you. You probably remember me. Im Joan, the blonde hesitantly interjected in order to introduce herself. She gave him a friendly nod.


    Shes been more than a little vague about you, though. Why do you hide your face all the time? Its bloody suspicious, the older male asked as he red at cknail.


    Dont be rude, Hassiol, Joan told the blonde male.


    Why shouldnt I be rude? Its weird how weing everyone is being to these neers. Some of them seem dangerous to me. I mean look at him! he replied.


    Youre one to talk. Youve been trailing after Khita like a hound, the youngerd countered. cknail remembered that his name was Avis.


    I have not! Anyway, Khita isnt the problem here, Hassiol protested.


    The youths bickering didnt seem like it was going to end any time soon, and cknail didnt have all day. If they had been goblins he would have just smacked them around a bit, but they werent, so he delegated.


    I came here for a reason. Shut these younglings up and take me to the person who knows how to shape y, he hissed quietly at Khita.


    Ah, thats Joan. Dont worry I have these young fools eating out of my hand. Ill shut them up and get her to show you the trick, she replied.


    To cknail, Khita didnt seem all that different from them. Hassiol was the same height as her and probably weighed more. cknail held his tongue though, and Khita quickly got the two boys to quiet down.


    Why do you want to learn this stuff, anyway? Joan asked as she led the way over to the shed.


    Um just normal human reasons, cknail quickly replied.


    Right Hassiolmented suspiciously. He was now ring at cknail again so the hobgoblin must have said something wrong.


    He broke his favorite bowl and wants to rece it himself. cknail is all about self sufficiency and he has a lot of free time out there in the forest, Khita interjected.


    Ah, that makes sense, Joan observed cheerfully as they all stepped inside.


    There was easily enough room in the shed for the four humans and the hobgoblin, even though there was a small table in the center of the room and arge shelf stood against one wall. Joan went over to the shelf and picked up arge chunk of dry y. She carried it over to the table and began to exin how to use the material and shape it.


    I used to make a lot of little pots and cups from y when I was a little kid, because it was a lot of fun. My parents would bring me the stuff and help me fire it, she told everyone as she smiled brightly.


    cknail watched and listened carefully. Joan rolled up her sleeves and then crushed the clump of y into dry powder. She then added a bit of water to rewet it and began rubbing it between her hands to make a ball and several long cylinders. The bowl began to take shape when she had ttened the ball to make the bowls base and ced several rings of y on top of it. After that, she smoothed the y out with her fingers until it looked like a real bowl.


    Now you just need to fire the y. Here in the vige we use a kiln but you dont need one. You can use a fire pit if you know what youre doing, she exined as she held up her little grey bowl.


    That seems easy enough, Khita observed. She sounded confident but cknail was sure she hadnt been paying attention during half the lecture. He would have to make sure he remembered everything.


    Its just dirt. Why are you all staring at it? Scamp asked from where he was standing next to cknail.


    The little goblin was peering up over the table at the unfinished bowl in Joans hands. Everyone turned to look at him when he spoke up. No one had noticed him approach, but he was the center of attention now. cknail groaned. Things had been going so well

 Hearts and Homes 9

    Hearts and Homes 9


    Oh, hello, Scamp said as everyone in the shed turned to look his way. The goblin gave the humans a friendly wave and smiled at them. He looked like he was enjoying all the attention.


    The three young vigers didnt return the goblins grin. Joan went stiff from fear and Aris stepped in front of her protectively. Hassiol just looked really confused and more than a little disbelieving. His eyes were wide with surprise.


    A goblin! Aris yelled dramatically, as if he was doing something more than stating the incredibly obvious.


    cknail wondered if it was toote to kill Scamp and pretend he knew nothing about him. It wasnt impossible that a goblin could randomly wander in here.


    Yep, Im a goblin. Youre smart for a human. Scamp replied cheerfully.


    This forced cknail to acknowledge that it was toote to kill him. Random feral goblins didnt talk like that.


    You cant be here! cknail hissed. Youre supposed to stay out in the forest. The vigers arent supposed to see you!


    Staying behind is boring, and you didnt say I couldnte, Scamp whined back. I miss the others. I want to see Geralhd.


    It talks! How can it talk? Aris asked. He sounded like he was in shock. A good punch to the side of the head would probably clear his mind, or wipe his memories. Either would work for cknail.


    Scamp isnt dangerous, Khita hurriedly exined as she stepped over and ced a hand on top of the goblins head. Hes a pet that was trained by a member of our band.


    Goblins can talk? Hassiol asked in a great disy of human ingenuity in the face of the unexpected.


    They can if you teach them, cknail grumbled. There is no point though, if they are too stupid to follow orders.


    Dont be so mean to him, Khita told cknail as she patted Scamp on the head. The little goblin looked smug.


    How did it get in here? We have walls and the gate is watched, Avis asked.


    I snuck through a hole under the wall, it wasnt very hard, Scamp exined helpfully.


    Goblins can talk? Hassiol asked again. He didnt seem to realize that that question had already been answered, and his obnoxious repetition was really starting to grate on cknail.


    Ive never seen a goblin this close before, Joan remarked as her shock gave way to curiosity. Scamp wasnt all that intimidating for a goblin, unless you counted his smell.


    I have. A few years ago, one got its hand stuck in a hole in the side of a barrel, while it was reaching for the apples inside, Avis said. The beasty caused quite themotion right outside our window that night, so my mother grabbed a broom and went out to deal with it. She got a few good smacks in before the critter gave up on the apples, pulled its hand out, and ran off.


    We should report this to Mr. Tannin, Hassiol told his friends. This earned him a ce on cknails most annoying human list. It wasnt a long list, because people kept dropping off of it, usually in spectacrly fatal ways. Life was funny that way.


    Theres no need to tell anyone. Goblins probably sneak inside this vige all the time, like in Avis story. What is Tannin going to do about it? Khita replied before chuckling dismissively.


    He should still know.


    What, are you afraid of the little goblin? Hes just a pet, Khita teased him.


    Of course not, the blonde boy quickly replied as he blushed a bright red. He tried to stand tall and look confident but since he couldnt meet Khitas eyes he just looked insecure.


    Then a tough guy like you doesnt need to tell anyone about a harmless goblin like Scamp. This can be a small secret just between us, Khita told him as she smiled suggestively. Her words actually caused Hassiol to smile back and nod, although cknail had no idea why. It was more than a little weird.


    Im not harmless Scamp muttered before cknail ced a gloved hand on top of his head and gave it a firm squeeze. To the others it looked like a friendly pat, but Scamp flinched and quickly shut his mouth.


    I can understand why you kept the trained goblin a secret, Joan observed. A lot of people dont like the little pests and wouldnt want it wandering around.


    Theyre just being stupid, Avis added. Ive never seen a goblin attack anything bigger than a chicken. Theyre not nearly as dangerous as the adults like to pretend.


    Yes,pletely harmless, cknail pretended to agree as he nodded. Since the whole Scamp issue seemed settled, he turned to Joan.


    Thank you for the lesson, he told her.


    It was nothing. Were all supposed to be getting along now, she replied as she gave him a bright cheery smile.


    Even with the creepy faceless ranger who hangs out in the forest, Avis muttered to himself. cknail heard him but chose to pretend he hadnt. The kid wasnt worth his time.


    Since the demonstration wasplete and he had learned what he wanted to know, cknail spun around and left. The human settlement unnerved him. It was full of hostile humans, and unlike arger city there werent any abandoned ces he could hide. The cloaked hobgoblin sent Scamp back to sneak out the way he hade in and then headed to the vige gate. Khita said her own goodbyes and then followed him. They left the settlement and crossed the fields until they reached the forest. As soon as the greenery shielded them from any watchers at the vige, cknail called for them to stop.


    We will wait for Scamp, he announced.


    Huh, thats unlike you. Why are we waiting for him instead of going on ahead? Khita asked.


    I saw wolf tracks on the way here. There is a pack around, so no one should go out alone, cknail replied as he scanned the forest around them. Nothing seemed out of ce.


    Youre afraid of some wolves?


    cknail turned and snarled at Khita. Im not afraid. Im just smarter than a dumb girl like you. One of the wolves smells wrong. It might be a threat.


    Theyre just some dumb dogs, the redhead replied defensively.


    Her response infuriated cknail. He didnt need to hear such nonsense from a weakling like Khita. She had no idea what she was talking about. The hobgoblin spun around and smacked her across the side of the head.


    Ow, Khita cursed as she reeled away from him in surprise. One of her hands came up to rub her sore head. It hadnt been a strong blow but it had still hurt.


    Enough; listen instead of talking! cknail hissed You will not enter the forest alone until I say so. I am the leader and you are the minion. The Green is dangerous. You do not question, and you will do as I say!


    Fine, sorry. I wont underestimate the danger again, Khita answered.


    Her response didnt fool cknail. He saw a defiant gleam in her eyes and noticed that she hadnt really promised to obey his orders. Normally, he would just hit a few more times, but as tempting as that was, his hands were tied due to his promise to Gehd. A more delicate solution was required. cknail sighed and grimaced at Khita. This wasnt going to be fun.


    You did good job back in the vige, he admitted. It was true; somehow the redhead had actually managed to help out and not screw anything up.


    Just saying those words gave cknail a nasty headache, though. However, they caused Khitas eyes to shine with surprise. The young redhead straightened up and threw cknail a questioning nce as if she couldnt quite believe what she was hearing.


    But, you need to listen to me. If you die all the stupid people will me me, cknail quickly added. He didnt want Khita to misunderstand the reasons for his concern. He just didnt want her to mess anything up.


    Instead of immediately replying, Khita lunged forward and wrapped her arms around the hobgoblins waist. He tried to jerk away from her but her hug was too tight. A giigle could be heard from Khita, and a shiver of disgust went down cknails spine. This was uncalled for. What did the annoying girl think she was doing?


    Thanks for caring, Khita eximed.


    Let go of me, cknail told her. If he had known this was going to happen he would have just left her to die.


    After one more friendly squeeze, Khita stepped back away from the cringing hobgoblin. cknail was spared having to tell her anything by the timely arrival of Scamp. The goblin scampered out of the bushes and headed their way.


    Why are you standing around? he asked as he walked over.


    It took a few moments for cknail to warn Scamp about the wolves, but then they all headed back to the goblinir together. cknail led the way along the now familiar trail. As the hobgoblin hopped on top of a tree that had fallen across the path, he caught the scent of something that put him on guard. He stiffened and quickly turned to survey his surroundings. The scent of blood was on the wind, goblin blood.


    Immediately, cknail snarled and drew himself up defensively. Practically anything could be watching from nearby. There were plenty of ces to hide among the trees and branches overhead. The back of cknails neck itched. Looking carefully, he spotted a patch of wet ground up ahead by the base of a tree. He jumped down from the log and stalked over to it. He moved cautiously, but once there he crouched down and sniffed it. It was definitely goblin blood.


    Scamp had detected the same smell. His expression was alert and he kept right behind cknail, where it was safest. Even Khita had realized something was wrong. She kept her mouth shut and looked slightly nervous as she followed the hobgoblin.


    cknail ignored them and began to sniff around the tree. A trail of blood spatters led away from the roots and towards a bush. He pushed the branches aside and found another patch of wet ground. There was also a tuff of reddish fur stuck to one of the branches, and it smelled of wolves.


    A goblin was killed here, one of mine, cknail growled angrily as he stepped back from the bush with the fur in hand.


    He vaguely recognized the scent of the goblin. It had been from his tribe even if they hadnt interacted much. Still, a pack of wolves had entered the territory cknail had imed and attacked his tribe. This could not stand. He wouldnt let it.


    Poor little thing. Was it killed by the wolves you warned me about? Khita asked.


    Yes, cknail hissed as he threw the fur aside and began walking down the trail again.


    Where are you going? And what are nning to do?


    Back to camp. I can do nothing now. The wolf scent is from hours ago, cknail exined as hispanions began following him again.


    It wasnt unusual for a goblin to be eaten by something like a wolf; in fact it happened all the time. However, cknail knew that there was more to this. He could feel it in his bones. This pack of wolves wasnt normal, and it was going to strike again, so he had to be ready for them. The hobgoblin began to think this new unwanted problem over as he headed back to hisir.


    By the time he stepped out of the forest, he realized that there wasnt much he could do. He wanted to hunt the beasts down and rip them apart with his bare ws, but that wouldnt work. He didnt have the time to try and hunt down a pack of wolves, and he could afford to lose a few goblins anyway. As the leader, his time was more valuable than their lives.


    Gob had to be informed though, so some basic precautions could be put in ce. Khita and Scamp went off to do their own thing, as cknail walked into the clearing and passed the rocky hills until he found Gob working away at building the longhouse. The other hobgoblin had several goblins helping him out, and they had aplished quite a lot. All the poles were up to create the buildings frame, and now they were working on weaving the bark walls. cknail interrupted the work long enough to exin the new threat to Gob.


    If you send goblins out make sure they move in groups and have spears. I dont want to lose any useful minions, cknail told him.


    Yes, great chieftain. I shall be careful as a m and if I see these wolves I will kill them myself, for your glory! Gob replied. The hobgoblin then bowed reverently.


    "Thats not what I said. Dont try to kill the wolves yourself. Youll die, cknail told his minion.


    As you wish, great master. I will let you have the honor of killing the beasts. They will fall before you.


    Sure cknail replied uncertainly. Now that Gob was getting better at speaking he was saying some weird things. cknail no longer questioned the hobgoblins loyalty, just his grasp on reality. Still, it was nice to finally be appreciated by someone.


    After dampening Gobs excitement a bit, cknail went right back to work on his main project, making some gods-damned bowls, so he could cook up some bloody stew. He now knew how to use y and where to find it, so it was time to go get it.


    cknail quickly rounded up a few of the nearest overseers and then had them gather up a several other goblins. cknail led the way over to the stream at the edge of the camp, and followed it until they found a deposit of grey y. Behind him came the goblin workers that would do the actual digging and carrying, and behind them came the overseers who watched the other goblins and used their spears to poke any of them that tried to run away or get out of work. It was an inefficient system but it worked, and best of all cknail could stand back give the orders without having to dirty his own hands. He didnt have to worry about all the workers and could just punish the overseers if anyone messed up.


    Soon, the work party was heading back to base. Every worker was covered from top to toes in mud and was carrying a big lump of y. Once at their, the spoils were piled atop arge t rock where they could dry in the sun. cknail admired the grey blobs for few minutes before getting bored and wandering off. He had been hoping it would be more exciting.


    Since it was starting to gette, cknail had his overseers round up a new group of cleaner goblins and put Elyias in charge of making supper. ckail then took it easy and went back to building himself a bed. After taking a break to eat he managed to finish and get the construct made of strapped together poles moved into his cave. With some stuffing made of dried nts under his nket it was even sort offy. When she came in to sleep for the night, Khita saw it and decided to make her own eventually.


    Its too bad there isnt anyone nearby I can steal a bed from, she muttered as she went to sleep on the ground.


    The next morning, when cknail woke up he decided his next personal project would be some sort of door for his cave. There had been a bit of a draftst night. However, since he didnt have the materials for that right now he put it on hold. There were lots of other things that needed done anyway.


    The early morning sun was just peeking above the trees as cknail stepped outside. From his vantage point at the cave entrance he could see the various projects underway in the middle of the rocky clearing. Where empty rock had once been several drying racks stood, and the frame of the longhouse Gob was building was off to the side. In the center of everything was a pit ringed by a circle of stones where most of the cooking was done, and off by itself was another pit used to smoke meat. Two goblin guards were holding spears and watching the cave that cknail had made into arder.


    The hobgoblin yawned and decided to head to therder so he could make sure the food wasnt being stolen, and he could grab something to eat while he was there. Of course, there was some food missing but that was to be expected. The guards would keep other people out but there was no one to prevent them from stealing the food themselves. As long as they only took enough to fill their own stomachs that was fine, though.


    Once in the cave, cknail chowed down on some smoked rabbit meat and arge white root. It was going to be a busy day so he wanted a full stomach. Things were finally falling in ce. He had gathered minions, materials, and knowledge. Now it was time to start building up the base for real. It would be hard work but cknail intended on creating a goblin vige. The hobgoblin growled as he walked back outside, and the guards stepped back away from him. Patience was difficult but it was necessary if he ever wanted his sweet bloody vengeance. One day, cknail would avenge his master, no matter what it took.

 Book One is now out on Amazon!

    Book One is now out on Amazon!


    I just released myfirst ebook on Amazon. I have been talking about it forever without actually doingit, but now it is done. No take backs. I''m very nervous.


    I''ve put a lot of effort into making this ebook worth buying. I hired and worked with a professional editor, and I went through a rather long process where Itried tomission the perfect cover. Even discounting the countless hours spent writing and editing, getting all this done was very expensive, especially since I had no idea what I was doing. None of it would have been possible without my lovable patrons. I am super in debt to all of you. Thank you so much.


    If you enjoy my writing then please purchase this book. It helps me out way more than just putting a few bucks in my pocket. The more people buy the book on Amazon the more it will be advertised there. That means it will be easier for new people to find, and thus I willget more sales. A big boost from you guys will really help to get the sales ball rolling. Every purchase helps, like a lot.


    <strong>The other important thing to do is to review the book on Amazon. Every single good review helps promote my ebook there. Reviews by verified purchasers are especially important, so if you buy the book please take a minuteto review it. I will be ever so grateful to you. It really means a lot.</strong>


    The Goblin''s Tale chronicles the first book of the web serial. The story goes from the beginning of the serial to just before the characters set out for Daggerpoint. Some changes have been made to focus the plot and I have added some new scenesas well. Compared to the web serial the book is much more professional and streamlined. I think it is worth getting even if you have already read the web serial.It might just be time to reread the beginning of the story and remember all the things you missed. That sounds like fun to me.


    I chose the current price based on other novels. The Goblin''s Tale is actually much longer than a lot of other books. It''s over 120,000 words and its price reflects that.


    You can also review the book on Goodreads.I non releasing a physical book eventually, but I''m very busy right now, so I don''t have a time frame. I''m super busy gettingall the stuff for this bookunch done, and to top it off I will be moving soon. Its a good thing I own next to nothing.


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    Buy the book.

 Hearts and Homes 10

    Hearts and Homes 10


    After stomping out of therder, cknail shoved his vtile emotions aside and went to work. The most important thing Saeter had ever taught him had been how to control his rage and how to focus on things you didnt want to do. There was no one forcing cknail to do anything anymore, so he had to do it to himself. Only ruin awaited him if he forgot his masters lessons and acted out. He had to be patient and cunning, like a spider weaving a web.


    The y was still airing out in the sun, so cknail headed over to the drying rack. The pelt of the deer he had in was still stretched out on the rack. It looked ready for the next step of the tanning process, so cknail went off to gather some helpers. Gob was busy teaching basic tasks to goblins and disciplining the overseers so he tracked down Elyias and Khita. Both of them could be found sleeping in their respective caves. Humans usually slept-in veryte for some reason.


    Do I really have to do this? Why cant you just get a nket from Geralhd or something? Elyias asked as he and Khita followed cknail over to the drying rack.


    Stop beingzy. Youre not doing anything but sitting around, the hobgoblin told him.


    Because youve basically kidnapped me and are holding me here in this gods-forsaken ce against my will! Elyias replied angrily.


    Exactly, you cant leave so you may as well make yourself useful.


    It wasnt by mistake that Elyias had ended up stuck with cknail. Goblins could do simple tasks like fighting and hunting, but for some things cknail needed helpers with a bit more brains in their skulls. He didnt have time to teach all the goblins by himself, so he nned to teach Elyias and then have Elyias pass the knowledge on. Since Khita had interjected herself into his ns the hobgoblin nned to use her for this as well.


    Isnt there something less boring I could help with? Khita asked.


    No, you wanted to follow me and help, so this is what you will do. Watch and learn, cknail told her.


    The hobgoblin then proceeded to show them how to finish tanning the stretched out hide. First, he took the skin down and carefully scrapped the hair from it. Next, he took a big rock and bashed the animal''s disembodied head until its skull broke open like an egg. The brains were then scooped out, thrown in the bucket, and mixed with water until it became soup-like. The resulting goop was worked into the hide by hand.


    This is so disgusting, Elyias remarked as he cringed back away from the slop in the bucket.


    Yet tasty, cknail replied. He enthusiastically licked his fingers to prove the point.


    Can I not do this? Khita asked.


    The answer was no. cknail needed both of them to learn to do this. There was a near endless supply of smaller hides that needed to be preserved, and he wasnt going to do it. He was the leader after all. The only reason he was working so much right now was to avoid more workter. Hopefully, once he had all his minions trained he could start napping all day while goblins brought him the best morsels of food.


    Once the hide had been thoroughly massaged with the brain oil by all of them, it was wrapped up and ced in therder, where it would keep cool and be allowed to soak until tomorrow. It was annoying how making things the human way took so much time. There always seemed to be several steps where you had to just leave the material alone for hours or days. Why couldnt the humans have created better ways of doing this stuff? Were they justzy?


    Are we done now? Elyias asked.


    Yes. Now we can start making things from y, cknail replied.


    Can I at least wash my hands?


    Your loss, cknail answered as licked his fingers clean.


    Now that the y cknail had procured yesterday was dry it was ready to be processed. Joan had exined the process yesterday, and it hadnt sounded that hard. The dry y was already on top of a t rock so the workers immediately began using smaller stones to break it up and crush it down to powder. cknail then gathered up the dust and ran it though the loose cloth he had been given yesterday by Joan. This removed all the small rocks and bits of nts. He had been told it was possible to use your hands and pick out the unwanted debris but that this was easier. He liked easier.


    I cant believe I was tricked into bing some sort of menialborer for a hobgoblin, Elyias moaned as he halfheartedly smashed the y. Where did my life go so wrong?


    If you want to continue getting free food and a warm ce to sleep you will work harder, cknail hissed back.


    Theres more to life than eating and sleeping. This primitive shit is going to drive me mad.


    Khita put down her own rock and threw Elyias a disdainful look before speaking up. This is the easy lifepared to what I went through as a kid. The streets are a harsh ce to grow up. Sure when my brother was still around and in charge things were softer than this, but thats life. The gods raise us up and knock us down, but that works both ways. Im here because I expect this horse to catch its stride and start going ces soon.


    Just because I had proper parents doesnt mean my life was a piece of pie, Elyias replied defensively. My family wasnt rich, and Im the third son so even before the draft I had to head out and find my own way in life. I got nothing I didnt earn myself.


    I used to fight rats that were bigger than me for garbage to eat, cknail told them. He had seen a few human street children before and they really didnt have it that bad. Goblins usually had it much worse.


    Elyias grumbled to himself but went back to work without anotherint. cknail added water to the y powder until it became a malleable blob that kept its shape.


    Huh, Joan was right. This is pretty fun, Khita remarked as she took a blob and began to shape it into a bowl.


    cknail and Elyias were both doing the same thing. They soon had a dozen crude bowls ready to be fired.


    Now for the fire! cknail said as he admired his creations.


    Yes, the fire! a raspy voice agreed.


    What? cknail nced over his shoulder to see who had just spoken. He was quickly treated to the sight of a pale goblin with a huge smile stered on his face. It was Ferrar.


    What are you doing here? cknail asked. How did these stupid goblins keep sneaking up on him?


    Im watching, Ferrar replied as he smiled at Khita and Elyias. cknail had already known that, so the goblins vague answer annoyed him.


    Wheres Imp? You two creeps are always together.


    Hes sleeping.


    That doesnt sound like him, cknail remarked. Imp always seemed to be up and about somewhere.


    Things change.


    The vague words sounded vaguely threatening, but cknail decided it had to be unintentional. There was no way the feral goblin knew thenguage all that well. cknail was frankly surprised he could speak at all since he was originally from this territory. Imp must have taught him.


    Fine, stay and watch. You will like this part.


    Earlier, the hobgoblin had ordered some goblins to dig a pit and gather wood and tinder. Now it was time to finish up this experiment. cknail, Khita, and Elyias each grabbed two bowls and ced them in the middle of the pit. cknail then carefully arranged a ring of firewood around the y items. After adding a bit of tinder, he used his flint and steel to set it all aze.


    When the wood waspletely ignited and several minutes had passed, cknail carefully added more wood. Over the next half hour, he kept building the fire closer and closer to the bowls until the mes touched the items. That was when he ced arge pile of wood right on top of the y and created one huge bonfire. By this time the waves of heat thrown off of the ze was causing him to sweat profusely.


    Now that the fire was burning steadily, cknail didnt feel the need to stick around. Someone needed to watch it, though, and he had other things for Khita and Elyias to do. That left only one option, Ferrar. Normally cknail wouldnt trust a goblin to pay attention that long, but Ferrar seemed to spend most his time around fire.


    Keep this going for at least three hours and then let it cool down during the night, cknail told the goblin.


    Burn things made in fire! Ferrar responded excitedly. The goblin then ran over to the pile of firewood and threw another log on bonfire.


    Good enough, cknail grunted. He woulde backter and make sure everything was alright.


    After working so hard, they all went to therder to grab some food. Once they had filled their stomachs, cknail had Khita and Elyias start to teach groups of goblins how to tan and preserve animal skins. They didnt have any more deer pelts but they did have a near endless supply of rabbits from the traps the goblins were putting out.


    While the others were doing that, cknail took another group of goblins and overseers out to gather more y. They would need quite a lot more of the grey ooze to start mass-producing bowls and other useful items.


    Everyone worked hard teaching and gathering materials until it got dark. cknail then once again threw a huge feast using the food the goblins had brought in and stored in therder. As the chattering masses of goblins rushed over to eat, cknail counted quite a few new faces. More goblins were eithering out of hiding or were wandering out of the forest and joining the tribe. There were now at least sixty goblins living in cknails outpost. Sixteen of those were trained overseers that would actually obey orders. Weirdly, both Scamp and Imp didnt show up, but cknail didnt think too much of it. Maybe one of Imp''s magic stones had finally exploded and killed them.


    The next morning, cknail woke up early and walked over to the smoldering remains of the bonfire he had put his y bowls in. Khita and Elyias followed him, and Ferrar invited himself along. When they got there, all that was left was a pit full of ck charcoal and white ash. cknail reached in and started rummaging through the ash to find the bowls.


    You might want to use a stick or something. That could be hot, Khita remarked as cknail yelped and withdrew his hand.


    Say it faster next time, cknail hissed sourly as he sucked his sore thumb. Khita was so useless and annoying. It was infuriating.


    Further digging using a stick unearthed the y bowls. Five of the nine had survived the firing intact and were now an earthy brown color. Their uneven and crude shapes were none-the-less functional. The other four had split in half or shattered into fragments and were thuspletely unusable.


    These three are mine! They all worked, cknail proudly congratted himself as he selected three of the intact bowls at random. He was a master craftsman.


    That one has my fingerprint on it, Khita pointed out.


    I meant this one, cknail replied as he quickly switched the bowl with another sessful one.


    No one said anything, but the humans both rolled their eyes. cknail didnt care what they thought. They were just jealous of his obviously superior skill.


    Since the experiment in making y had mostly worked, cknail got goblins working on producing more. He needed a lot more than five bowls. Groups of goblins were sent out to gather y, process it, and to dig the firing pits. Elyias was put in charge of the overseers and Ferrar volunteered to help him burn things.


    That left cknail and Khita free to finish up the tanning of the deer hide. They took the hide out of the coolrder, cleaned it a bit, stretched it out between them by hand, and then softened the hide by hitting it with a stick. An odd surge of bittersweet emotions welled up in cknail as he worked with Khita. He could clearly remember doing this with Saeter, although the stretching part had been more respectful and less like a game of tug a war, which cknail had easily beaten Khita at.


    Once the hide was soft enough it was ready to be smoked. cknail sewed up the tears in the hide and ced it above the fire using a rack made of sticks. He threw green wood on the coals to produce lots of thick smoke. He smoked both sides for an hour each before taking it down from the rack and holding it up proudly.


    Its done! Arent I great at hunting and making useful things! cknail bragged.


    What are you going to use it for? Khita asked dryly. She made noment about the hobgoblins own question.


    I want to hang it at the cave door to keep the warmth in.


    You already have nkets. You should give it to Gob.


    Nope, its mine, I caught it.


    Gob has really done a lot Khita started to say before cknail cut her off.


    Shut up, Im the leader. I want this. Its neat, he told her as he walked off to hang up his new trophy. Who cared what Khita thought?


    After admiring his work, the hobgoblin helped the goblins processing the y when they ran into a problem. They only had the one cloth to sort the dust and it was already wearing down. cknail consulted with Gob and together they came up with the idea of using the soft fibers under all the bark Gob had collected to weave a mesh of their own. It took a lot of time to make the cloth, but cknail didnt trust the goblins to sort anything properly by hand. They were toozy and stupid.


    The clearing full of rocky hills that the goblins used as a base was now constantly humming with activity. Groups of goblins were always walking around and working at different things. There were gatherers and trappers bringing back food and materials. Overseers were watching over the food. Several goblins were putting hides and meat up on the drying rack. Gob and a few helpers were almost done building the longhouse. Other goblins were firing y or chipping stones to make tools. cknail had justin down to rest for a bit in the sun, when Elyias showed up and started bothering him.


    Its Scamp. He is sick or something! the man told him.


    So what? cknail replied grumpily. The heat from the sunlight was pleasant and he didnt want to move.


    He could die!


    More food for everyone else.


    Um, it might be contagious?


    The little nuisance had been very quiettely. With a sigh, cknail got up and followed Elyias over to the cave he shared with Scamp. It was smaller and mustier than cknails. It was little more than a rocky overhang with three walls and arge open entrance, but that probably suited Elyias fine since humans didnt see well in the dark. Scamp was entangled in a dirty nket and sleeping against the back wall.


    Whats he doing? cknail asked as peered at the goblin.


    Nothing! He hasnt moved all day. At first I thought he was just beingzy but its clearly more than that.


    Feeling suddenly uneasy, cknail walked to the goblins side and looked down. He scowled at what he saw, and then he kicked Scamp in the ribs. There was a solid thud noise but the goblin didnt react. cknail kicked him again.


    What are you doing? Elyias asked. He sounded rmed by the sudden violence.


    Working out my frustration.


    He hasnt done anything wrong. Hes sick.


    Hes not sick. Scamps sleeping because hes turning into a hobgoblin. Look, hes got tiny little horns, cknail hissed angrily. There was indeed a pair of horn tips growing from the goblins head.


    The entire point of building up the goblinir and disciplining the local goblins had been to create hobgoblins. However, Scamp wasnt the type of goblin cknail had wanted to transform. He would probably just be even more useless and eat more, a lot more.


    So, he will wake up soon?


    Yes, in a day or two, cknail answered before suddenly freezing.


    He had just had a terrible thought. Imp had been awfully quiettely. In fact, he had disappeared at the same time as Scamp. cknail immediately dashed out of the cave. He had no idea where Imp usually slept so he quickly tracked down Ferrar. The goblin was busy shaping y to throw in the fire.


    Has Imp been sleeping all day? cknail asked Ferrar. The goblin considered the question for several seconds before nodding in the affirmative. cknail resisted the urge to choke him to death.


    Things change. Goblins change, Ferrar answered as he squished a clump of wet y between his fingers.


    This news didnt sit well with cknail. He hadnt been expecting hobgoblins to appear yet, and Imp wouldnt have been one of his first choices anyway. He was smart but creepy, and cknail didnt like having powerful unpredictable minions. He wanted nice followers that were easy to control. However, a hobgoblin version of Imp would probably prove smart enough to be useful


    Wait, he was missing the main point. Having a pair of newly changed hobgoblins running around the camp unsupervised was a terrible idea. Having a new hobgoblin running around with a backpack full of magical explosives was worse. cknail wasnt going to let that happen. He needed a n, one that would allow him to keep the new hobgoblins out of trouble - and most importantly - keep himself in charge. Things were going to be interesting when Scamp and Imp woke up.

 Interlude: Stuck in a Rut

    Interlude: Stuck in a Rut


    And thats how you milk a goat, Tannin announced as he stepped back away from the animal. There was a satisfied look on the old mans face.


    Fascinating, I feel enlightened by your sinct yet thorough exnation of this wonderful natural process, Gerahld replied from a few feet away. He was smiling in a way that looked very forced and unnatural, almost as if he was being sarcastic.


    Both of the men were standing in arge dirty shed. Piles of hay littered the floor and there were several goats wandering around. The grey beasts were mostly ignoring the humans. They all seemed focused on chewing things, although Geralhd had no idea what. He hadnt seen any of them eat anything.


    I may not be a schr of any sort but I know what sarcasm is, Tannin answered dryly.


    Gerahld coughed and made an effort to reply in a more polite and respectful tone. It would be unfair to hold your circumstances of birth against you. You seem like a very wise man to me.


    I wasnt born in this vige, young man. Youre just digging yourself deeper. Like you, I stumbled upon it and then eventually decided to take up residence, Tannin exined as he walked out of the shed.


    He immediately looked up at the sky. It was a cloudy morning outside but it didnt look like it was going to rain. The white clouds were slowly but steadily being dragged across the sky by a lofty wind that was barely touching thend below.


    No one in my group is settling down quite yet. Weve merely been forced into taking a temporary reprieve from the road, Geralhd replied as he followed the older man out.


    Your speech sure has grown fancier since you got here. I dont like it.


    I had different priorities during the adventure that led me to your door. Sleeping indoors and proper meals also agree with me, but I will be leaving when the time is right.


    Thats what I thought as well, when I first arrived. It didntst. Tannin said as he headed down the main road towards the center of the vige. Your bunch has the look of people with nowhere else to go. I can tell youve got demons on your tail that you cant outrun. Finding somewhere toy low is probably your best bet and theres nowhere better for that than here.


    You sound like youre speaking from experience. Why did you settle down here?


    The people were halfway decent when I got to know them, and no one here ever tried to tax me or dere themselves my better by virtue of their blue blood.


    I can appreciate that sentiment, but what were you running from exactly?


    Trying to pry into my past, eh? Thats alright; its ancient history. I was used of being a thief by a noble and had to disappear. My father was a carpenter and the noble didnt want to pay him what his work was worth. Or at least that was what I told my wife. The truth may be moreplicated, Tannin exined as he gave Geralhd a conspiratorial wink.


    The young man smiled awkwardly in return and then looked away. Ah, thats quite simr to another tale Ive heard. A woman I once knew was in a simr situation.


    Tannin ignored the sad look that appeared on Geralhds face and kept talking. That doesnt surprise me, but lets speak about something more relevant to the here and now. Did your education happen to include anything useful? The other members of your group have been helping out with farm work or heavybor, but you havent been contributing much, and you didnt seem to be paying much attention when I was showing you how to milk that goat. Maybe you know medicine or some sort of trade perhaps?


    I learned nothing even remotely that pedestrian. My tutors taught me the higher fields of study such as philosophy and math.


    Well, if I need someone to count the local chickens I wille find you, Tannin huffed.


    Not that I dont appreciate your generosity, but youre being awfully weing to me and my friends.


    Bah, youre a young and healthy bunch. Thats the kind of blood that we need around here. There a few young widows that have been giving you a few sideways nces.


    Huh, Im sure there are, but Im personally not in the least interested in settling down. This ce doesnt quite offer the lifestyle I crave, or any other sort of style, really.


    Give it time. Itll wear you down.


    I wouldnt put money on that. Im not the vige living type. One way or another Im going to be headed back to society, Geralhd said. He spoke in a stubborn tone that was as much for his own benefit as anyone elses. He much preferred the finer things in life over the simpler parts. They tended to smell better for one thing.


    The pair was passing by another shed when something caught Tannins eye. He turned and scowled at the base of the building. Geralhd followed his nce. Something had dug up under the wall and into the shed. The bottom of the wooden siding had been torn up as well and straw from inside had been dragged out.


    Gods damn it, Tannin cursed.


    Its just a little hole, Geralhd replied calmly.


    Thats the third mess Ive seen this morning alone. People keep reporting small thefts and pests getting into their supplies. We dont have the resources for this type of nonsense. We need everything we have for when winteres.


    Is something causing this? What do you think it is?


    Goblins. You can see the prints in the dirt there, Tannin answered angrily as he pointed towards the hole in the wall. The green pests get into everything, but its not usually this bad. A pack of the damned thieves must have denned-up somewhere nearby.


    A surprised cough escaped from Geralhds mouth and he turned away to hide his guilty expression. He had a fairly good idea what, or who, was causing Tannins problems. It was probably the goblins that hade with cknail. Geralhd wasnt surprised that they were making trouble, although he had been hoping cknail would keep them under control. At least they were only stealing small things and food, and not something that would really anger the vigers, like children.


    Huh, weird. I have absolutely no idea what could be causing that sort of phenomenon, none what so ever. It must be just one of those weird little things in life that cant be exined, he said aloud.


    Something in Geralhds voice drew Tannins attention, because he threw the man a suspicious look. After a second, he just grunted and looked back at the shed, though.


    Well, Ill let you go. Ive got to deal with this mess, among other things, and I know youve got your own things to do, he said.


    Very true. Ill see youter, Geralhd replied as he started to hurry away. There was no point sticking around and Tannin was a little too perceptive.


    Without looking back, Geralhd headed down the dusty dirt road that ran through the vige and towards the homes that had been lent to the bandits. He soon reached his destination and stepped inside. It was a small house that looked worn down. Immediately, he was confronted with the sight of several people seated around a wooden table. They were all former members of Herads band, and they looked his way as he walked over to them.


    There you are. We were waiting for you. What took you so long? one of the bandits asked. He was a blonde man with a sly smile.


    I was speaking to Master Tannin. He wanted to talk to me after he finished trying to get me interested in animal husbandry, Geralhd answered with a shrug.


    About what? a woman asked suspiciously.


    I think he was fishing to see what our ns were and whether we are going to stick around.


    Then he knows about as much as we do, nothing. Thats what were here to discuss. So lets get to it, the blonde man said. I for one have had enough of this ce. They have me helping with the nting. I dont n on settling down to be a dirt farmer. I became a bandit for a reason.


    Theyre talking about getting work parties to cut the bush back at the edge of the clearing. Thatll be hard work and dangerous, a tall bearded bandit agreed. On top of the falling trees you have to worry about pissing off a mimic or just ending up in a hungry beasts gullet. Its no wonder they have lost some of their people and are looking to rece them.


    Its not really any more dangerous than serving under Herad. That wasnt exactly safe. In fact, it was probably much less survivable, especially at the end there, the woman countered.


    Maybe, but it paid a lot bloody more, as in more than nothing.


    Its far from perfect here, but its much better than anywhere else Ive seen since leaving my family farm with a press gang right behind me, a shorter bandit interjected. I wouldnt mind settling down here. There is a young widow that fancies me.


    You should marry her. That sounds like a great way to waste away to nothing out here in the middle of nowhere, Geralhd replied sarcastically. Im getting out of this pit the first chance I get.


    Which brings us to the main point. Can wee up with a realistic n to leave? the bearded bandit told everyone. Were stuck here with no money, shabby equipment, and a horde of enemiesying in wait for us out there. Im also worried about our guide going native if we leave him out there too long. Hes a hobgoblin so who knows whats going through his head. Without human contact he might go feral and disappear on us. Then we will really be stuck.


    Should we just leave right away and risk it all on the road? If we wait it doesnt seem like that will improve our odds any, the blonde bandit asked.


    I hate it here, but that trek through the woods sounds like suicide to me. Count me out, the bearded bandit interjected stubbornly.


    I think youre over exaggerating the risk. Werrick has no reason to spend so much effort chasing a few survivors like us, and once we get back to civilization we can earn some coin easily enough, Beardy, another banditughed.


    My name is Ralph Livistanius, and I take great pride in my family lineage. If you use that bloody nickname again Ill knock your teeth out of your skull. The hobgoblin may get away with calling me what he wants, but youre not him, the bearded man replied angrily. His face was red as he rose up from his chair.


    Alright, settle down. Lets stay on topic. No one else here wants to listen to you argue about nicknames, Geralhd told them. Now, it doesnt seem like a good idea to leave right away. I want out of here more than anyone. The thought of never again enjoying a good vintage of wine crushes my soul into nothingness, but we need to wait until we can gather some equipment and supplies at least.


    What about the hobgoblin? What if he disappears?


    cknails got Khita with him, and I have a hard time seeing him going feral, Geralhd exined. Hes too intelligent for that and he enjoys his littleforts as much as any of us, if not more. He certainly whines a lot if he runs out of cheese. No, Im more worried about him getting bored and causing a ruckus here. cknail will be fine in the forest, where he is safely out of the way. How much trouble can he get into out in the bush?

 It Echoes Onward 1

    It Echoes Onward 1


    As Imp and Scamp slumbered and grew, cknail was hard at work. As the leader of the goblin tribe he had many important duties that he couldnt ignore, like yelling at random goblins and ring at everyone that tried to talk to him. Usually, when someone approached him they wanted him to do something annoying or answer a question he didnt actually know anything about. Making up answers that satisfied his minions was a pain so cknail went out of his way to discourage such behavior. The goblins could figure out how to make tools and build stuff on their own now, or they could ask Gob. It wasnt his job to help others; he was leader.


    There were also more important things that cknail had to concentrate on, like eating, and preparing for the hobgoblins awakening. Someone had to focus on the big picture, someone intelligent and resourceful. Hobgoblins were dangerous and cknail wasnt going to let them wander off or sleep unattended. Under his orders, the two sleeping goblins were moved into secure cages made fromshed together stakes. The cages would remain sealed until cknail could appraise the new hobgoblins and make sure they could be trained to obey orders. He had no use for them if they were unruly.


    Hobgoblins made cknail uneasy. They were untrustworthy, and cknail was an expert on the subject because he was one. He knew exactly how twisted and dark their minds were. Gob wasnt so bad and he had proven his loyalty, but cknails gut told him that Gob was a weirdo and that other hobgoblins would be much more difficult to deal with. As a young goblin, Gob must have fallen and hit his head against a rock or something.


    Two days passed while Scamp and Imp slept and changed, and the goblinir continued to develop. As more and more hides were tanned, the previously naked goblins began to wear fur and hide clothes which they decorated with feathers and trinkets. They also began carrying more stone tools such as spears and axes. Most significantly of all, Gobpleted his longhouse. Dozens of goblins now slept inside the long dark building. It was far morefortable than a cave and all the body heat warmed it at night. It didnt smell great, though.


    Ferrar had be obsessed with making y bowls. He had a group of overseers forcing goblins to constantly bring him materials and refine it for him, and that suited cknail just fine. The goblin himself spent all day building and experimenting with different types of firing pits and shapes of bowls. His eyebrows grew singed from constantly standing next to the mes, but his efforts werent wasted. Dozens of crude y bowls were now stacked up in therder, where they wouldnt be stolen or broken by curious goblins. There were even a fewrge pots meant for cooking. cknail wasnt sure whose idea those had been, but it had been a good one. He would have to take credit for it.


    The sun was just reaching its noonday peak on the third day, as cknail was sitting down by the cooking fire to make himself some lunch. Most of the camp ran fine without him now anyway. He was just about to start cooking the mix of meat and veggies he had cut up, when Elyias ran up next to him.


    Scamp is awake, the man exined breathlessly.


    cknail eyed his uncooked meal carefully for a few seconds before responding. It was tempting to let Scamp wait, but he decided he didnt want to deal with this situation on a full stomach. That could get unpleasant.


    Fine, lets go, cknail muttered as he put his frying pan down on a rock. It was unlikely any goblin would be brave or suicidal enough to steal it.


    The pair quickly walked over to the cages, which were right beside each other. Inside the one on the left there was movement. A tall shape slowly withdrew from the bars, as if it was trying to pretend hadnt just been chewing on them. cknail wasnt fooled, though. He was very observant and there were teeth marks clearly visible on the bars.


    Go get Gob, cknail told Elyias.


    Without another word, the human went off to do as he had been told. cknail focused on the cages upant. The new hobgoblin inside was thin and gangly. His ribs were exposed by his thin flesh thatcked any sort of fat. Although, cknail could still recognize him, Scamps face had changed a lot. It had grown longer and less chubby looking. However, Scamp still had soft round eyes that made him seem almost friendly instead of vicious. It made cknail want to punch his dumb face.


    Also, Scamp had always had a bit of messy ck hair on his head, but now it looked like both the length of his hair and the area covered by it had grown out quite a bit over the past few days. The result was a mess of hair with patches of different lengths. cknail was d he was naturally bald. Having hair seemed like a pointless inconvenience.


    Pulling out his knife, cknail cut the cord holding one of the cages vertical bars in ce. It fell away and opened up a space wide enough for a hobgoblin to step through. cknail took a step back out of the way, so Scamp cautiously stepped out of the cage.


    The two hobgoblins faced each other. cknail kept his face neutral, but Scamp was clearly dealing with a confusing mix of emotions. He fidgeted and had difficulty meeting cknails eyes, like he was ufortable in his own skin. Neither of them said anything for a few moments, until Scamp broke the silence.


    Hey there, cknail. Hows it going? he asked as he shifted his weight awkwardly.


    That was when cknail punched him right in the face. Scamp squeaked as his nose was ttened against his face, and he fell over backward. The blow had taken himpletely by surprise.


    Thats not what you should call me, cknail hissed as he leaned over to stare menacingly into Scamps eyes. There hadnt been nearly enough fear there before, but that could be fixed easily enough by gratuitous violence.


    Sorry, boss! Scamp whined as he cowered on the ground in front of cknail.


    Who is your boss?


    You are!


    Are you going to do everything I tell you? And obey my every order?


    Yes, boss!


    Good! cknail growled as he lunged forward, grabbed Scamp by the throat, and pinned him against the ground.


    If you dont then I will rip your neck open! cknail growled as he squeezed. Remember this, you puny wimp. If you try and run away I will hunt you like prey and gut you while you scream. Fleeing through the forest wont save you from me.


    cknail wasnt messing around and his tone of voice made that clear. He sounded more like an enraged beast than a thinking being. Hobgoblin minions were an important part of cknails n, but that didnt mean he had to like them. If there were going to be other hobgoblins around then they were going to have two choices: submitpletely or be torn apart. cknail wasnt going to take as much as a single insubordinate look from another hobgoblin. He was the leader and it was going to stay that way. Challengers would be put down.


    Up, stand up, cknail ordered Scamp after letting him go and stepping back.


    The new hobgoblin rushed to obey and hurriedly climbed to his feet. Even standing, Scamp kept cowering in fear. Before cknail could give him anothermand someone else spoke up.


    Can you let me out too, great leader? a familiar yet odd voice asked.


    A twinge of irritation went through cknail. He turned towards the source of the voice and saw a figure stand up in the other cell. It was Imp. He was awake, and he had changed a lot. The goblins form had been stretched out into that of a hobgoblin. His long nose was pointier than Scamps but it was his eyes that stood out the most. They were narrower with red irises that shone with intelligence. He looked very different from Scamp.


    I promise to obey, Imp remarked as he waited by the bars. He seemed perfectly respectful and in control of himself.


    cknail considered his options. He didnt feel like letting Imp out, but it was actually convenient for him to deal with both the hobgoblins at the same time. cknail got his knife out and opened up the cage. When Imp stepped out, cknail punched him in the face. There was a loud crack.


    Ow, why did you do that? Imp asked as he held his bleeding nose. He had fallen onto his ass from the impact.


    Because I could. Now get up, cknail hissed in answer. He hadnt believed Imp was actually nning on being obedient for even a second. Even as a goblin he had been creepily good at hiding his thoughts, so cknail was just going to assume he was untrustworthy and keep hitting him.


    Imp climbed to his feet and walked up next to Scamp. There was now a rebellious spark in his eyes that hadnt been there before, and that cheered cknail up greatly. Now he could look forward to beating it out of him. Both Scamp and Imp red at cknail as Gob and Elyias arrived.


    Like cknail, Gob was taller and more heavily built than Scamp and Imp. However, both the newly transformed hobgoblins would quickly put on weight and grow a bit once they started eating.


    Our numbers grow, Gob eximed happily. He eyed both the new hobgoblins with a mix of excitement and suspicion.


    Dont kill either of them without permission, cknail replied absently. That would be inconvenient.


    Yes, boss, Gob said as he sheathed the dagger he had just drawn a second ago.


    You can hit them a lot, though. Discipline must be beaten into them, cknail added.


    He remembered how he had felt after bing a hobgoblin. His paranoia and blood thirst had been difficult to suppress. He never would have managed it without his lost master. Even now, cknail could sense resentment and rebelliousness from Imp and Scamp.


    Both of you must do as Gob says. His words are mine, cknail told Scamp and Imp. He red at them until they reluctantly nodded back.


    I shall teach them proper respect, mighty leader, Gob responded eagerly. They wont dare question you.


    Thats all I ask, cknail said as he nodded happily. Gob really understood him.


    Just then, Scamps stomach grumbled loudly. cknail turned and gave the hobgoblin an appraising look. He should probably let the new hobgoblins eat something now. They looked really hungry, and they hadnt eaten in days.


    You have my permission to go get some food. When you are done you will be given chores. If you try and run away I will hunt you down and carve out your hearts, cknail told the two hobgoblins. It was important they knew the consequences of misbehavior.


    What if we both run in opposite directions? Scamp asked.


    cknail scowled at him and considered the question. Imp took a step away from Scamp.


    Why are you asking? cknail inquired. He was surprised by the question. It was a stupid thing to ask, even for Scamp.


    Im just curious.


    If you both run then I will send Gob after one of you, cknail answered.


    Scamp nced at Gob out of the corner of his eyes, as if he was weighing his chances. Gob sighed, stepped forward, and punched Scamp in the gut. The new hobgoblin gasped and fell to his knees. cknail watched and nodded approvingly. This was a sessful learning moment.


    You are weak and I am strong. Do as our great mastermands or suffer and die, Gob hissed as he red down at Scamp.


    Alright, fine. I will do everything you say. Scamp replied after a few moments of painful sounding wheezing.


    Yes, me too. I live to obey, Imp quickly added as Gob turned his way.


    It seemed like they were under control for now, so cknail dismissed them. Imp and Scamp quickly retreated towards therder.


    That went well, cknail told Gob. The other mature hobgoblin nodded in agreement, not because he agreed, but so he didnt get punched in the face by his chieftain.


    Yep, everything looked in order. Now cknail just had to wait for Scamp and Imps inevitable attempt to kill him. There was no way both of them wouldnt try it at least once. Scamps attempt would probably be pathetic and easily thwarted, but it was a good thing cknail had confiscated Imps bag. Magic explosive rocks would really have messed up cknails n to survive with all his limbs intact. Killing Werrick would be difficult with only one leg.


    Gob and cknail took a few minutes to discuss their ns as they waited for the new hobgoblins to finish eating. They could see therder entrance from where they were standing and cknail kept an eye on it in case one of the hobgoblins tried to slip away. You couldnt be too careful around the untrustworthy freaks.


    Saeter had beaten discipline into cknail by teaching him swordsmanship. Only when it became very clear to cknail that his attempts to fight back were utterly futile and that his rage was weakening him had cknail began to learn to control himself. There was no reason to change a system that worked.


    cknail was nning on personally training the other hobgoblins the same way. In preparation, he had already gone back to Shelter and acquired some wooden training des. He had also taken the time to teach Gob the basics of sword fighting so that he had a head start on the other hobgoblins.


    Imp and Scamp walked back out of therder cave with a pile of food. They didnt bother cooking any of it but instead immediately sat down and began eating. They shoved smoked meat and roots in their mouth as they sat on a pair ofrge grey rocks. When they were done cknail walked over. It was time to get them to work. They had to get used to following his orders.


    Scamp was sent to help Gob build tools. cknail decided to oversee Imp himself. Imp was definitely the more dangerous of the two and cknail wanted to keep an eye on him. He led the hobgoblin over to where a mob of goblins was working on firing some y. Ferrar was there leading the effort with the special enthusiasm he always showed when things near him were on fire. The goblin gibbered and pranced around the mes with his arms above his head.


    The goblins stirred uneasily as Imp approached them. They threw careful nces between him and cknail. Some of the goblins seemed to expect a fight to break out at any second, and they werent wrong in thinking that. However, Ferrar immediately left the firing pits and approached the hobgoblins.


    Show Imp how to make pots, cknail told the goblin. He was toozy to do it himself.


    Ferrar nodded at cknail and then exchanged a few squeaks and grunts with Imp. The goblin then led the hobgoblin over to the big t rock where the y was being strained. Imp followed him and studied everything with obvious interest. The pair quickly got to work.


    That was exactly what cknail had wanted them to do, but he was still very annoyed. What kind of hobgoblin meekly took orders from a mere goblin! Why wasnt Imp being more aggressive? This was no fun. He had been expecting to have to scream at Imp repeatedly to get anything done, but it was looking like he wasnt going to have to do anything. With a sigh, cknail walked over to a nearby rock andid down on top of it. At least it was a nice sunny day and the light was warm on his skin.


    With Ferrars help, Imp began building a series ofrge pots. He seemed rather excited about it actually. From atop the rock he was resting on, cknail asionally yelled things at them, but his heart wasnt in it.


    Eventually, it began to get dark and cknail got bored. It didnt seem like the hobgoblin was going to misbehave so cknail had something much more important that he needed to do. He was going to throw a feast and finally cook up some stew. It would be a huge event in celebration of the two hobgoblins waking up, but mostly it would be about how amazing cknail was. They also finally had enough bowls to serve most of the goblins. cknail couldnt wait. He was going to make the best stew ever, and everyone would know how great he was at everything. He had been the one to teach the tribe to hunt, fire y, and to cook. He was also a really nice person.


    The food for the feast had already been gathered by the goblins and was sitting in therder. cknail sent out minions to gather the ingredients he needed and to drag the big iron pot over. It had gone unused until now. Once the pot was propped up above the fire, cknail threw the ingredients in and started the fire below it.


    Soon, the stew was bubbling away and steam was rising up into the air. The smell attracted curious goblins who wandered over to see what was going on. cknail smiled to himself. His creation was almost done. Now, he just had to start handing out the bowls and then he would finally get to show everyone how great his stew was. Everything he cooked was tasty, especially his stew, and this batch in particr was turning out great. It had a nice spicy taste, which was probably from the purple leaves he had thrown in. He had never seen leaves like that before, but they had certainly looked tasty.


    Suddenly, an eerie howl echoed out across the hills. It hade from out in the forest. cknail kept on stirring. It was probably nothing. Another louder howl rose up into the air. The goblins near cknail began to look nervous and started mumbling among themselves. cknail thought they were being jumpy cowards. It was probably nothing.


    A terrified shriek suddenly erupted from somewhere near the edge of the hills. It was quickly followed by dozens of shrill goblin screams and beastly growls. That was probably something. cknail looked up and scanned the hills. It sounded like a mob of panicked goblins was headed his way, and judging from the growling, something hungry was chasing them.


    cknail let out a deep breath. Of course, this was going to happen now, just as he was finishing up his cooking.

 It Echoes Onward 2

    It Echoes Onward 2


    cknail stepped away from the pot of stew he had been cooking and drew his sword. Thete afternoon sky overhead was dark and cloudy. The wind was still and quiet, but that only created an expectant atmosphere that filled cknail with unease and amplified the other noises. It sounded like the goblins base was under attack. cknail could hear howling and screams, and neither of those sounds usually meant anything good. Feeling concerned, cknail peered over the heads of the nearby mob of goblins, towards the rocky hills beyond them. It was good thing they were so short.


    Across the clearing, three goblins ran out from behind a hill as if something dreadful was chasing them, because something was. There was a vicious snarl and a grey blur burst into sight. It tackled one of the goblins to the ground. The green critter screamed in pain and struggled to escape its attacker. Long jaws descended and there was a crunching noise as it bit down. The goblin was being mauled by arge grey wolf. It looked like it hurt.


    One wolf wasnt much of a threat to cknail, but there were probably more around. Wolves were cowards like that. cknail felt fury start to bubble up from within him. How dare this animal enter his territory with such impunity. It was an insult! cknail snarled and lunged forward toward the wolf. He was going to cut the mangy beast to pieces and eat it! He didnt care how bad it tasted.


    The nearby goblins reacted at the same time as their leader, and immediately fled in the opposite direction. cknail hadnt been expecting anything else from them, but it still annoyed him. The cowardly creatures outnumbered the wolf ten to one. This was why you had to beat your goblins regrly.


    The wolf looked up from its prey and noticed the charging hobgoblin. It studied him for a quick second, and then without a word, it bounded away back behind the hill. cknail hissed in frustration as he slowed down. The overgrown doggy was running!


    Just as cknail came to a stop, he heard another growl from behind him. The hobgoblin nced over his shoulder in time to see two new wolves dash in and pick off one of the fleeing goblins behind him. The nearby goblins shrieked in terror, and then one of them veered off to the side and ran straight into the firepit. There was a crash as the goblin smacked into the pot and sent it crashing over. The goblin rolled through the fire pit, scattering sparks and embers, and then jumped up and continued running.


    No, my stew! cknail wailed in horror. As he watched, the food sshed out of the pot and spilled out across the ground. That was way more dirt than the recipe called for! His stew was ruined. He had put so much effort into making it This wasnt fair!


    cknail stood there frozen, as the wolves that had pounced on the goblin turned and began to run off with their prize. cknail shook himself to clear his mind. Now wasnt the time to focus on spilled stew. There were important things to do. The wolves were killing his minions, and he wasnt going to let that happen. If he didnt get any food then no one was!


    Infuriatingly, the wolves were too far away for cknail to catch. They were fast bastards, and it was like they were working together to keep him off bnce. Well, that wasnt going to work. cknail was a genius and thus much smarter than them.


    There was more than one way to hunt. cknail didnt need to catch the wolves. He hurriedly sheathed his sword and drew his sling instead. A momentter, he sent a rock through the air towards the closest wolf. It yelped in pain when the rock hit its leg, and then it crumpled and rolled across the ground beforeing to a stop. cknail was already running towards it. Itspanion saw himing and took off with the goblins corpse, but the wounded wolf wasnt so lucky. Before it could get up, cknail dove on top of the wolf and grabbed its furry neck.


    Got you! cknail yelled victoriously. His bloodthirst was in full swing now.


    The hobgoblin pulled out a dagger with his other hand, as the beast struggled to escape. It rolled onto its back and raked the hobgoblins arm with its rear ws, but the pain just enraged cknail. His fury muted the feeling into irrelevance.


    The wolf snapped at cknail and hot spittle sshed across his face, but the hobgoblin kept his grip on the beasts neck and held it away. cknail snarled as he stabbed the wolf in the chest over and over again. A few secondster, it went limp as blood began to pour out of its wounds. The hobgoblin rxed but kept his grip on the beast as he stood up and looked around. He could still hear goblins screaming in panic but there were only a few stragglers left nearby. The others had fled towards safety, but that wasnt the important thing. There were still more wolves that needed killing.


    There were too many piles of rocks blocking his view, so cknail decided to get a better vantage point. He needed to know what was going on. He ran over to the nearest hill and began to climb. After scrambling hallway up the rocky incline, cknail stopped and looked around. Below him, mobs of goblins were still rampaging around aimlessly. The asional wolf could also be seen darting around.


    Off to one side, Gob was standing his ground outside the longhouse. A small formation of goblin overseers had formed up around him. cknail decided to head over there as well, but before he could, he heard something that caused him to jerk in surprise. A deep haunting howl washed over him. It wasing from his left and sounded far too close forfort.


    rmed, cknail quickly nced to his left, and he saw a wolf jump up onto the top of another hill. The beast was huge and stood out from the others. Its furry grey body dwarfed that of the other wolves cknail had seen, but the most startling thing about it was the series of dark blue spikes that ran down its back. It was a mutant.


    The vicious looking creature stared directly at cknail, and the hobgoblin met its eyes. For a few seconds neither of them moved. They just red at each other. cknail didnt like this new development. He hated mutants. They were trouble. There had been this one giant snake


    The wolf that had run away from cknail appeared behind the alpha and took up position beside it. It was still holding the dead goblin in its jaws in a way that was very suggestive. The bloody thing looked smug, and it seemed to smile as it turned to stare at cknail.


    Well, two could y that game. The hobgoblin grinned as he lifted up the wolf he had killed. This seemed to anger the alpha wolf because it immediately growled. cknail growled back, but then realized he was at a disadvantage here. He was outnumbered and he didnt really want to fight a mutant. They could be very tough.


    Fighting would be a bad idea, but he wasnt going to back down either. This was his territory and no giant wolf monster was going to show up and scare him. That would make cknail look bad in front of all his minions.


    The hobgoblin and the beast continued to stare at each other hatefully from their respective hills. cknail couldnt help but notice how massive the mutant was, and he began to feel his rage fall away. Self preservation was important after all. A lot of people depended on him.


    The beast looked like it weighed well over twice his weight, and like most mutants it probably had some sort of magical power. Attacking the wolf would undoubtedly be ill-advised, but showing weakness might also invite an attack. This was a problem Maybe if he red at it hard enough it would go away. He couldnt think of any better options so that was what he did. cknail made his best scary face and took a confident pose. He continued to hold the dead wolf up, even if his arm was starting to hurt. The mangy carcass was heavy.


    The mutant wolf snarled and red, but cknail didnt back down at all, not that he had much choice. It would be strategically unwise to move too much.


    Suddenly, there was a chorus of shouts from behind cknail and the stomping sound of a lot of small feet. Gobs voice was recognizable among the others. The wolf alpha looked away from cknail and towards the noise, so the hobgoblin snuck a quick nce over his shoulder. What he saw cheered him up considerably. It looked like Gob had managed convince a small swarm of goblins to charge towards cknails location. Gob and several overseers were at the back of the mob, where they could drive the others forward. cknail was going to have to reward Gob somehow. He was a great minion.


    The wolf threw a look back at cknail and snarled viciously, but it didnt attack. Instead, it raised its head and let out another echoing howl. Right away, the scattered wolves began to turn away from the camp and run towards the forest. Their grey forms zoomed through the rocks and out of sight. The alpha wolf then jumped down the hill and darted off towards the forest. Itspanion followed it.


    Ha, youre not tough. Fear me! cknail shouted after it as he dropped the wolf carcass. His arm muscles really hurt now.


    Im here to help, supreme one! Let us drive the enemy away! Gob said as his mob met up with their chief. The collected goblins looked nervous but they were all armed, so they probably felt safer together and wouldnt flee.


    I already did that, cknail replied proudly. I just scared the enemy leader with my greatness, so they all ran. It was a huge and very dangerous mutant.


    You are truly a mighty warrior, Gob remarked in awe.


    I am, cknail agreed as he nodded smugly to himself. He had sure shown that furry freak who the boss was. He was!


    The beast still lives, though. Should we chase it? It killed some of our tribe. Blood must pay for blood.


    A mental image of him trying to lead a mob of goblins through the forest after the wolf popped into cknails head. It didnt seem like it would work very well, because they were so stupid and cowardly. The goblins would lose their confidence and desert in short order. That would leave cknail alone in the woods with the angry wolf pack, which didn''t sound fun.


    No, I have a better n. We will have another chance to kill the foul beasts, cknail quickly replied.


    He actually had several different schemes that could work. His first n involved hoping the wolves went away and never came back. This was the optimal oue. His second n involved waiting, building up his forces, and hoping the wolves didnt kill anyone important until he was ready for them. A dozen hobgoblins should even the odds enough. His third n was to dig a big hole and hope they all fell in it. It wasnt a very good n.


    We need to build a wall, cknail mused aloud.


    He had a new appreciation for all the walls he had seen around human settlements. They had always seemed so useless to him, because they had been so easy for him to get through, but now he realized that keeping out amazing sneaks like him wasnt their purpose. They were meant to keep less awesome things like giant wolves or other predators out. Really, there was nothing that would keep cknail out of somewhere he wanted to go, anyway. He was too amazing.


    Yes, a wall was what he needed. cknail had thought that gathering arge tribe of goblins together would scare away most predators, or at least prevent them froming right into camp where the important people were, but obviously that wasnt the case. More goblins just meant more food to some beasts.


    What the bloody hells is going on? Khita yelled as she ran up to cknail. The young redhead had her sword out and looked excited as she nced in every direction.


    That mutant wolf I warned you about was real, and it attacked, cknail told her. He was always right and she was always wrong.


    Really? Is it still here? Will ite back? she asked him as she stared at the edge of the forest.


    No, its gone. I scared it away and it wont daree back. Now it knows that only death waits for it here.


    st, I wanted to see it, and to get a chance to take it down, Khita said as she sheathed her sword and sighed. She sounded really disappointed, and cknail rolled his eyes. If Khita hade face to the face with the wolf she would have been petrified from fear. She wasnt brave like him.


    Where is Elyias? cknail asked her.


    Cowering at the back of a cave with Scamp, she answered dismissively.


    Ah, good. cknail had been slightly concerned. He hadnt seen them around, and losing them would be inconvenient. He still had a use for them.


    cknail and Gob spent the next hour calming down the camp. The wolves had picked off a few goblins but they didnt seem to have done any structural damage. Once everything was back under control, cknail put a few goblins on lookout. If the wolves returned and tore them apart their dying screams would give him a chance to prepare.


    As he was working, cknails stomach suddenly rumbled. He hadpletely forgotten that he hadnt eaten. The attacking wolves had rudely interrupted his cooking. cknail quickly headed back the firepit to see if there was anything left. He approached the toppled iron pot, knelt down, and peered within it. It waspletely empty.


    You filth! I will find you! cknail roared as he stood back up. He shook from rage as he red in every direction for any sign of a convenient target.


    It was obvious that some goblins had even taken advantage of the chaos and cleaned out the inside of the pot while he had been bravely facing down the alpha. What a bunch of thieving scum! Why did cknail even bother defending them! If they werent so easy to turn into menialborers then he would have already left them all to die.


    Grumbling to himself, cknail went to get some food from therder. It wasnt very satisfying and only reminded him of the hot meal that had been stolen from him. Goblins were scum. After finishing his food, cknail headed off to bed. He didnt feel like staying up or doing anything useful. No one here appreciated the things he did for them.


    The next morning cknail felt better. He immediately tossed Khita out of her bed and went to work. Or at least he went out and started to get other people working. He was the leader.


    The first thing that needed done was to construct a wall. It was far too easy for dangerous forest creatures to get into the base and start munching down on goblins. The forests of the North contained an endless supply of vering beasts, and ckail was using these goblins. Every barrier between his cave and an attacker was also appreciated. You could never be too careful.


    The wall will be made of pointy sticks. It needs to go around the entire base and be too high to jump, cknail exined to Gob.


    He had just finished showing the other hobgoblin how he wanted the wall built. As Gob watched he had chopped down a several thin trees and stuck them in the ground. They were also tied together and supported by another piece of timber that was jammed in behind them on an angle. It was a crude copy of a design he had seen Herad use before.


    As you wish, I will make sure this wall encircles all the base, great master, Gob said. The hobgoblin nodded along seriously and looked eager to get going.


    Something about that reply bothered cknail. He took a second to think it through before replying. Leave a gap for an entrance.


    Sometimes Gob took him too literally. There had been an incident a few days ago after cknail had asked someone to knock some sense into Elyias.


    Make that two entrances; I want one at the back as well. Its too far to walk, cknail added thoughtfully. Round up all the overseers  and make some more - and get them to force every goblin they find that isnt already working to start cutting down trees.


    As Gob started to get down to work, cknail went to track down the other two new hobgoblins. He felt like getting some early morning exercise, it was past time to start training them, and he felt like beating someone up. It sure was convenient that he could do all three at the same time. Maybe Scamp or Imp would even try to kill him! That would really amuse cknail. He couldnt wait.

 It Echoes Onward 3

    It Echoes Onward 3


    Imp was easy enough to find. The newly transformed hobgoblin was hanging out near the y pits. He always seemed to be there, working on something that cknail didnt understand. It was almost like he enjoyed it, which was unsettling. Why would he enjoy working? It was weird behavior for a hobgoblin. Even Gob spent most his time bossing goblins around instead of doing chores himself. cknail had considered making Imp work somewhere else, but he was too productive to waste. With Imp there, the y pits were producing over twice as much as before.


    On the other hand, Scamp was much more difficult to track down. cknail had to look around the base for a while before he found him. He wasnt in the longhouse or therder. Eventually, he located Scamp napping over by some rocks on the far side of the camp.


    After a swift kick to the ribs, the sleeping hobgoblin yelped and jumped to his feet. When he calmed down and recognized cknail, Scamp smiled nervously and greeted his chieftain. cknail just snorted and told him to follow. He led Scamp over towards the center of the base, where Imp was waiting. Khita and Elyias were also lounging nearby and sitting in the shade at the base of a hill. Both of them had their swords at their hips, but they only looked up as the new arrivals approached and didnt move.


    Well, this ought to be an amusing show. Its usually very boring around here. Elyias remarked as he grinned nastily at the hobgoblins.


    Now I will teach you how to use a de, cknail told the other two hobgoblins as he tossed them wooden practice des. He picked up one for himself and took up position in front of his minions.


    Imp didnt look that impressed. He studied the sword for a second and then looked back towards where he had been working. Scamp smiled excitedly and waved his new weapon around a few times experimentally.


    I always wanted to get a shiny sword. When I learn this, will I get one? Scamp asked. He looked hopeful, which amused cknail.


    Yes, when your training is done, cknail told him. He had a small stash of extra des he had taken from people who were incapable of using them anymore.


    Now, stand like this and hold the de up, cknail ordered Scamp and Imp as he showed them the proper stance and technique.


    Both of the hobgoblins studied him and shifted their stances, but neither of them copied it correctly. They both looked off bnce and open to attack. cknail showed them a few different techniques and watched them try them. Imp seemed to just be going through the motions without any real interest, and Scamp was goofing around instead of learning properly.


    That was alright. cknail had a n for motivating them. He ordered Scamp forward and told him to take up a defensive stance. Scamp obeyed and sloppily raised his de up. A momentter, it was bashed aside and cknails wooden sword smashed into his shoulder.


    Ugh, that hurt! Scamp yelped as he was knocked over sideways.


    "Too slow, cknail hissed coldly. It was also weak. Are you a real hob or an overgrown goblin?


    Im a hobgoblin! Scamp whined as he got back up. He was wincing from the pain and rubbing his shoulder.


    Then act like it, you runt. Step back and let Impe over here.


    Both the hobgoblins quickly obeyed. Imp didnt look very excited about taking his turn. He wasnt stupid, so hed already figured out what wasing next.


    Take a defensive stance, cknail told him.


    Can you just show me how to do it? Imp asked hopefully. I dont think I know the right way, but Im sure a great teacher like you could show me.


    There was a nervous smile on his face as he met his instructors gaze. cknail grinned back, but it wasnt a pleasant expression.


    Nope, heughed as he swung his de. The weapon hit Imp in the stomach. He crumpled and fell to his knees.


    Ow, Imp groaned.


    Pay attention next time, you arrogant runt. You arent smarter than anyone else. Youre just an arrogant prick of a hobgoblin, cknail told him. His voice and expression were both harsh and unyielding.


    That was how the rest of the training went. cknail would exin a technique to them, they would try to copy him, and then they would be tested.


    Failure always resulted in pain, and neither of the hobgoblins ever passed a single one of cknails tests. His de slipped through their defenses or pushed their own weapon aside every time.


    Going on easy on them would defy the entire point of the exercise. It also wouldnt be any fun. cknail was having a great time!


    Why are Khita and Elyias here? Scamp asked as he stepped forward again. He was obviously trying to distract cknail and buy himself a few minutes of rest.


    To watch and prevent you from doing something stupid, cknail replied as he nced at Imp. They are also here to remind you of all the people who could stab you to death, because you suck.


    The other hobgoblin red back. He was seething with rage and red in the face. Clearly, the training was working. cknail was a great teacher!


    I can take over the training if you want, Scamp. I think Id like a chance to knock a hobgoblin around, and I think cknail is going a little easy on you, Khita said from over where she was sitting.


    Scamp paused and looked uncertain. He clearly hadnt expected Khita to say such a thing. However, before he could make up his mind, cknail spoke up.


    Not today, but maybe another time. I got this, he said as he motioned Scamp forward again.


    They continued to train for half an hour until cknail eventually stopped and addressed his tired out minions. Alright, thats enough for today.


    Really? Scamp asked hesitantly. He was favoring one leg and he had developed a few purple bruises. Imp was in a simr sorry state.


    Yes, unless either of you want a chance to hit me back.


    What do you mean? Imp asked. The hobgoblin sounded intrigued but also cautious. He suspected a trap. It had been that kind of day.


    We could spar, cknail told him.


    Imps beady red eyes stared intently at cknail for several long seconds. His hands were gripping the wooden practice de so tightly they almost seemed to be shaking. He looked really tempted to give into his rage and take up the offer. Scamp quickly shook his head to signal he wasnt interested. He was a coward, so that wasnt surprising.


    No, I would never want to hurt you, wise leader, Imp eventually hissed in reply. He didnt sound like he really meant it.


    Too bad, because now your wise leader feels like sparring with you. We will keep going until I say so or you hit me. Maybe you will learn some of my wisdom, cknail replied smugly as he grinned from ear to ear.


    There was a hateful hiss from Imp as he raised his de up in front of his face. It was an aggressive stance, but instead of charging, Imp cautiously inched forward.


    cknail didnt feel like waiting for him. He lunged, battered Imps sword aside, and then smashed his sword into the other hobgoblins ribs. Imp flinched but gritted his teeth and tried to strike back. However he aimed too high and cknail easily ducked under his sh.


    Over the next few minutes, cknail demolished Imp. The newly transformed hobgoblin quickly descended into a blind rage and began swinging wildly.


    Hold still! he screeched as cknail stepped back away from one of his attacks.


    Imp continued to attack over and over again, but none of his attacks hit. cknail dodged and parried them all, while asionally slipping in his own attacks. Impsplete loss of self control was deeply satisfying. cknail couldnt stop himself from grinning widely in delight. Imp had been far too self-controlled as a goblin, so cknail had always wanted to beat the smugness out of him. He wasnt so smart now was he!


    Eventually, Imp screamed hatefully at the top of his lungs, dove forward, and was promptly smacked down. The t of cknails de crashed into the top of his head and knocked him down into the dirt. He coughed and didnt get back up. Instead, Imp justy there on the ground.


    Do you give up? cknail asked the prone hobgoblin. Instead of replying, Imp let out a defeated groan that cknail assumed meant yes.


    Remember this lesson, weakling. Strengthes from obedience; not from rage, cknail told Imp as he leaned down over him. Defy me and you will stay weak and pathetic, and weakness leads to pain.


    It was important that cknails new hobgoblin minions not only learned to fight but also to fear him. Unquestioning obedience born from hopelessness was required. cknail couldnt have disobedient hobgoblins running around. That would be too dangerous.


    Tomorrow will be your turn to spar, cknail told Scamp as he turned and gave him a meaningful look. Scamp gulped in fear and Elyiasughed.


    That sure was interesting, the young man remarked as he got up and walked over to Scamp. I always wondered how Saeter trained you, so that you wouldnt kill him in his sleep or anything.


    I was a better learner than these two, cknail told him. Memories of hanging from a tree and being beaten up by Saeter rose up in his mind, but he suppressed them.


    Come on, you look like shit. Lets get you something to eat, Elyias told Scamp as the pair walked away.


    Khita followed cknail back over to where the wall was under construction. They left Imp alone on the ground.


    The training continued over the next two days. For a few hours every afternoon, cknail taught Scamp and Imp how to use a sword and how to control their emotions. They werent very good at either yet, but cknail was having fun, so he wasnt in too much of a hurry.


    Over and over again, he showed them the basics of sword fighting and hit them when they failed to impress him. The objective was not only to motivate them to seed but also to enrage them. During the sparring, when they lost control and tried to hit him, cknail simply countered using his vastly superior skills and then humiliated them. The point was to condition them to not give into their anger. The hobgoblins'' violent instincts had to be suppressed, and cknail wanted them to know he was in charge. He was the leader, and he didnt n on stepping down or letting himself get killed.


    He also took an hour every day to teach Gob, who he didnt beat ck and purple. However, Gob spent most of his time overseeing the construction of the wall around the base. The goblins needed to be watched at all times or they would ck off. cknail was fairly sure that most of them were only pretending to work anyway, but there wasnt much he could do about it.


    Still, the wall was starting to take form. Its rickety wooden length looked like garbage, but it would do its job and keep out most the nasty wildlife. Gangs of goblins led by overseers were constantly dragging timber out of the forest. Even goblins with stone axes could cut down slender young trees fairly easily, and there were a lot of goblins around. It was a good thing therder was full of food because everyone was too busy to hunt or forage.


    On the third morning, cknail decided to head back to the human vige. He had grown bored of hanging around the goblinir and wanted to talk to some other people. He was also out of cheese. Going without cheese for a few days was unthinkable.


    We need some supplies, so Im going to lead a mission back to Shelter. It will be dangerous but I can handle it, no problem, cknail told Gob as he smiled confidently.


    Thank you, most powerful of chiefs. Surely, only you could do this, Gob replied as he gave a little bow.


    Pretty much, cknail agreed as he nodded along happily in agreement. Gob sure said it like it was.


    I want toe, Ferrar said as he scampered up to cknails side. The hobgoblin chief looked down at him and frowned thoughtfully.


    Why? All the things you want to burn are here. Youre not allowed to burn things there.


    I need to learn something from humans, Ferrar exined. Humans know a lot about fire and y that Imp and I want to know too.


    The idea didnt immediately appeal to cknail. The creepy little goblin wanted to go and talk to some humans? That didnt sound like a good idea. Theyd probably kill him and then hunt down every other goblin they could find. cknail could barely resist the urge to do that himself.


    It will allow us to cook new tastier foods, Ferrar added as he noticed his chieftains reluctance.


    Alright, lets go! cknail replied excitedly. He had grown tired of the simple fare avable at the goblin camp. Good food made everything better!


    The goblinsing with us now? Khita asked from where she was standing nearby. Half a dozen goblins were beside her. They had been chosen to join the mission.


    Yes, he has a very important task, cknail told her.


    I wish I could go back to Shelter. Its a pile of dung full of peasants, but Im really getting sick of staying out here in the forest. The gods know I would do anything to get back to civilization, Elyias whined.


    The young man was also nearby, although he wasnt joining the mission. He simply had nowhere better to be. Lately, he had been working under Gob a lot and helping out with the wall. cknail wasnt sure if it was by choice or if Gob had conscripted him, and he didnt really care.


    I told them you stole their coins and deserted so you cant go back, but you can be the second inmand while were gone. Thats a promotion for working so hardtely! cknail told him.


    Oh, good, Elyias replied as he scowled. He didnt seem all happy about the wonderful promotion hed just been given. cknail decided not to take that as an insult. Elyias had always been a miserable person. That was why annoying him was so fun.


    Just watch for Scamp and Imp while Im gone, cknail warned him. They might go insane and start killing people at any time. If that happens you need to help Gob fight them off.


    What? Is that a real possibility? You must be joking, Elyias asked in rm. He looked concerned and more than a little afraid. It was unbing of a second-inmand.


    Thats always a possibility with hobgoblins, even me, cknailughed as he walked away. Elyias was a funny guy.


    Without wasting any more time, the group set off. cknail took the lead as they trudged through the forest. The mixed group passed between rows of towering trees and up and down rocky hills as they approached their destination. The familiar journey took them about an hour. Once they were near the vige, they stopped among a thick clump of bushes at the edge of the fields.


    Can you sneak past the walls and rejoin us? cknail asked Ferrar.


    Sure, I sneak in there all the time, Ferrar replied with a confident smile and a excited nod.


    This reply caught cknail off guard. What was this now? When did Ferrar have the time visit the humans? Why would he want to? After a few seconds of furious thinking cknail decided to let it go. This didnt sound like it was his problem. As the leader, he needed to focus on the important things, like getting his cheese.


    Khita and cknail left the goblins behind. They crossed the fields and went in through Shelters gate. The one old farmer that was serving as the guard let them in without any concern. They were familiar visitors now. The hooded hobgoblin even gave the man a friendly nod. Being polite was important.


    The pair wandered through the streets until they got to where Geralhd had taken up residence. It was a small home that looked like it had seen better days, but it was clean and serviceable. Compared to cknails cave it was a mansion. Khita walked up to the door and called out, but no one answered.


    He doesnt seem to be home, she told cknail.


    Im right here. I heard youde to visit my humble abode and decided to cut you off, Geralhd answered from behind them. The both turned to see him walking towards them from down the street.


    Oh, where were you? I hope we arent interrupting anything, Khita asked.


    I was simply out and about. It was nothing important. Now, to what do I owe the pleasure of your visit? he asked in return. cknail was fairly sure it was question. Geralhd sometimes had a problem speaking clearly.


    I bet you were with a woman, Khitaughed. There was an amused grin on her face.


    In this vige? I prefer having rtionships with less strings attached, Geralhd replied with a grimace of distaste.


    Oh, like with Vorscha, cknail observed. Geralhd and Vorscha had done everything together until Werricks attack. They had been forced to leave her behind when they fled the battle and she had died horribly. It was too bad. She had been strong and useful.


    Yes Geralhd replied with obvious awkwardness. He suddenly looked a little sad.


    That was utterly thoughtless. You dont say things like that, Khita quietly hissed at the hobgoblin.


    cknail sighed and rolled his eyes. He had no idea what she was talking about. It must be a stupid human thing. Every time he thought he had them figured out he was proven wrong.


    Well, lets not stand out here on the public street and under the sun. Come in and have some tea. Its dreadful herbal stuff but its still better than the local swill, Geralhd said as he walked over to the entrance of his home.


    cknail didnt think Geralhd looked too hurt by his words. Khita was probably being overdramatic. She did that a lot.

 It Echoes Onward 4

    It Echoes Onward 4


    The main street that ran through the vige of Shelter was little more than a wide dirt path. The homes that ran along both sides of it were squat buildings with thatch roofs. The sound of people talking and the creaking of wood could be heard off in the distance. Nothing looked broken or ruined, but everything looked like it had been patched several times.


    Geralhd walked through the front door of the house where he was staying. It led into a small kitchen. Khita and cknail followed him. As Geralhd threw some water into a pot and lit a small fire in his stove, both his guests sat down at the table in the center of the room.


    So you didnt answer me before. Why are you here? Geralhd asked after he joined them a few momentster.


    You owe me more cheese. I dont have any left, cknail immediately told him. His voice was rather intense, because he was rather upset about it.


    Geralhd rolled his eyes, but before he could reply, there was a knock on the front door and someone spoke up from outside. Its me, Tannin. I heard you had some guests a visiting so I decided to stop on by.


    Come one in. I just put some water on for tea, Geralhd replied after letting out a deep sigh. The young man then turned and gave cknail a meaningful look.


    Be good, he told the hobgoblin.


    Im always good. You humans are the ones who always mess things up. Do better, cknail replied dismissively. As the leader, he was the only one that got to judge peoples performances.


    The front door then swung open and Tannin stepped inside. The bearded old man gave them all a polite nod of greeting. There was a friendly smile on his face and his eyes held a warm twinkle. cknail decided that this meant the old man wanted something. The hobgoblin was getting used to humans strange ways.


    I see youre still alive, youngss, Tannin told Khita. A few of the others had a bet going. Most of them thought youd die ore crawling back here within a day or two. Living out in the forest is rough going for anyone, let alone a young woman.


    I can take care of myself, Khita replied scornfully. I dont need anyone telling me what to do, where to live, or how to survive. Tell those old hags you stuck me with before to mind their own damn business. They can shove their etiquette where the sun dont shine.


    Her angry words just caused Tannin to chuckle loudly and grin wider. He looked quite amused.


    I take it that means you n on staying out in the forest for a while longer? he asked her yfully.


    Yes, I do, she replied in a chilly tone.


    Tannin nodded and then turned towards the cloaked hobgoblin. And I see cknail is being as mysterious as always. Do you ever not wear a hood?


    Yes, cknail replied as he waited for his tea. He hoped it wasnt the bitter kind. For now, Tannin had nothing the hobgoblin wanted, so talking to him wasnt important.


    Geralhd got up and pulled out a chair for Tannin, and then they both sat down. The two made small talk for a few moments, and cknail fought the urge to close his eyes and take a nap. When was he going to get his tea? He tried ring at Geralhd to get his point across, but the man ignored him. He wasnt a very good minion. cknail was going to have to do something about thatter.


    Why dont you ask for cknails help? Khita suddenly asked. The use of his name caused cknail to focus back on what everyone was saying. He hadnt been paying attention at all, so he had no idea what they were talking about.


    Does he know a lot about goblins? Tannin asked. cknail felt a small tingle of panic, but the man sounded friendly and curious.


    I dare say, he is one of the utmost experts on the subject, Geralhd replied with obvious amusement.


    I suppose he must have run into a lot of them out in the wild Green, Tannin mused aloud.


    cknail had been about to implete ignorance about goblins, but since Geralhd had spoken up, he decided to go along with it. This must an important conversation. Food was probably involved.


    Youre having a problem with goblins? cknail asked as he straightened up in his chair.


    Ya, you could bloody well say that! Tannin huffed in frustration. Weve suddenly been overrun by an infestation of the little pests. Theyre getting into everything! The thieving is bad but its the destruction they leave in their wake that is the real damned problem. Theyre spoiling more food than they actually steal. Every day we lose vital supplies.


    Tannin sounded and looked like he wanted to hit something. He was holding one hand up and was clenching it tightly into a fist. This topic was obviously making him angry. cknail could use that. Tannin could probably be convinced to offer a tasty reward to anyone who solved his problem.


    As the old man continued to ramble on about spoiled grain, cknail heard a scratching noise from the far window. He looked out of the corner of his eye and noticed a green sh of movement. It was a goblin, a familiar one. Ferrar had caught up to them and was peeking in through the window.


    This batch even seems smarter than usual, Tannin continued. They sniff out poison, and they even avoid all our traps! The weighted barrel trap used to catch them by the dozen, but when young Raius checked itst night it was empty. Not only that, but somehow the goblins actually managed to disarm it and make off with the bait! If I didnt know better, I would swear they were listening in on us and learning to counter our ns.


    Thats silly; goblins arent that smart, cknail quickly agreed in a t voice as he turned away from the goblin in the window and focused on Tannins face. He needed to focus on manipting the foolish human.


    Probably not, but somethings going on here. Do do you have any special tricks up your sleeves for dealing with the bloody things?


    There is nothing up my sleeves but my human arms, but I do know some tricks, cknail replied carefully. He didnt want to give himself away.


    There was moment of awkward silence, so cknail spoke up again. I usually set bait out for them and then shoot them. Have you tried that?


    cknail had just made that up, but it was the best he coulde up with on short notice, and it even sounded like it could work. When cknail wanted to chase goblins away he simply gave them chores. He usually never saw them again after that.


    However, this idea didnt appear to appease Tanin. The old man frowned and shook his head. He opened his mouth as if to speak but Khita cut him off.


    cknail, youre forgetting one obvious solution, she interjected.


    I am not, cknail hissed at her. She was dumb.


    You keep the wild goblins away by training other goblins to guard your stuff. Mr. Tannin could do the same thing. There is no reason he cant. Khita shot back.


    cknail grunted sourly. He hadnt forgotten that. It was just a really stupid thing to bring up. Was she trying to expose his true identity and ruin his ns? Probably not, she was just stupid.


    Guard goblins? Tannin asked doubtfully. He didnt seem sure if Khita was joking or not, but he clearly found the idea hrious. There was an amused grin on his bearded face.


    Thats what he does, and it works, Khita replied defiantly. She then shrugged like she didnt much care what he thought, even though it was obvious she did.


    As he turned towards Khita, cknail sighed and gave her an annoyed re. Seriously? Why was she bringing this up? This idea was so dumb only a human could have thought of it. Tannin would never consider such a dumb n.


    My old master used to do it, cknail exined after turning towards Tannin. Goblins are territorial so if you take one in then it will drive the others away, but even trained goblins can be very annoying and get into trouble.


    Huh, that actually doesnt soundpletely unreasonable, Tannin mused as he looked off to the side contemtively. At this point Id try almost anything, and feeding one goblin would cost us less than feeding a hundred of the gods damned despoilers.


    Under his hood, both of cknails eyes widened from surprise. Khitas n was so stupid it might actually work! He couldnt waste this opportunity to take advantage of how weird humans were. Letting the humans get used to goblins would suit cknails purposes. It would also allow him to spy on the humans without concern, although apparently it wasnt that hard. Even feral goblins could do it. Ferrar was still looking in through the window, and cknail had no doubt that he knew exactly what was going on.


    Er, I happen to have some goblins you could borrow, cknail suggested. He had to press his advantage. They know some simplemands and will keep out of trouble. Geralhd and the others can help you train them, so within a few days you should see a lot less goblin thefts.


    How exactly do you train goblins? Tannin asked. It sounded like he was seriously considering the idea.


    Mostly you just hit them a lot and offer them food. They only get into trouble if they get hungry, cknail told him.


    The water finally finished boiling and the shrill whistle of the kettle on the stove filled the air. As Geralhd got up and served the tea, everyone continued to discuss the goblin problem. Eventually, Tannin agreed to ept a pair of goblins from cknail.


    With that decided, cknail and Khita excused themselves. Geralhd had promised to give cknail some cheese when they stopped by on their way out of the vige, and they had finished their tea, so there was little point in sticking around. They still had to go track down Joan and ask her a few questions for Scamp and Imp.


    I suppose you youngsters dont want to hang around here with an old man like me, Tanninughed as they were leaving. Although, I suppose I have no idea how old you are, cknail.


    Er Im ten, the hobgoblin answered him. That was a good age for a human right?


    Youre ten? Tannin repeated in disbelief. Uh oh, he seemed suspicious. Was that too low?


    Ten and a half? cknail suggested.


    Ha ha, cknail is such a joker, Geralhdughed. Hisughter was awkwardly loud and there was a stiff smile on his face.


    Get out of here and let me talk to Tannin, he added as he motioned for cknail to leave. The hobgoblin immediately did as he was told and fled.


    Once outside, cknail and Khita headed towards where they had met Joan during theirst visit, and the sound of little footsteps followed them.


    They passed by a few vigers as they walked and cknail gave them polite nods. When they got to their destination, Joan wasnt there, so Khita went to find her while cknail waited.


    Hello again, Mr. cknail. How can I help you? Joan asked when she arrived alongside a proud looking Khita. The young blonde woman was wearing a long homespun dress and there was a polite but curious expression on her face.


    cknail didnt immediately respond. He just stared at her nkly. What had he wanted to ask her again? Ferrar had been the one who had wanted to talk to her. He couldnt remember what the goblin had told him


    Um he mumbled aloud to buy time.


    Thankfully, he didnt have long to wait. Ferrar appeared from behind the corner of a nearby building. The little goblin looked extremely excited. He practically bounced as he ran over to join the conversation.


    Ask her about the color of y matters, sometimes it goes ck, the goblin suggested as he grabbed cknails pants and looked up at the hobgoblin with wide eyes that shone with excitement.


    Does the color of the y matter? Sometimes its ck? cknail repeated uncertainly at Joan.


    There was no immediate reply. The blonde girl studied cknail and the goblin for several long seconds. She was squinting at them, and she seemed unsure of something.


    Is the goblin asking the question? I think thats what I just heard, she asked in disbelief.


    This called for some skillful evasion of the truth.


    Were both asking, cknail answered. He likes to talk, even if its nonsense, but you know that. He was here before.


    Hmm, are you sure this is the same goblin? It looks a little different...


    Yep, he is the same, and his name is Scamp, cknail replied cheerily as he nudged Ferrar with his foot. The little pest had better y along.


    Im Scamp and Ive visited you before. That happened, Ferrar quickly agreed as he nodded along enthusiastically. He was a smart little pest.


    How many talking goblins do you think there are? This is the same one as before, Khita added as sheughed. Her words seemed to convince Joan, although cknail wasnt sure why anyone would take her word over his. It was kind of insulting to be judged lower than Khita in any way....


    Ferrar left cknails side and wandered over to Joan. The young woman continued to stare at the goblin suspiciously, but she didnt back away. Ferrar began to ask her question after question and she answered them one by one. cknail and Khita hung back and tried to look interested. It was hard. Making y pottery was apparently much moreplicated than cknail had thought.


    After talking for a few minutes, Joan led Ferrar inside of a shed and showed him around. Ferrar kept up his barrage of questions as they walked past several shelves. They stopped in front of an oven for few moments and Joan opened its door to show Ferrar. cknail peered inside as well, but it was empty and boring. Could they leave now?


    Alright time to go. We have important things to do, cknail announced after a few minutes. Hed had enough. Looking at the oven had made him hungry.


    Ille visit you again! the goblin told Joan as he smiled happily.


    I look forward to it, Joan replied. She still didnt seem to know what to make of the goblin and his questions, so she just smiled back politely.


    With their farewellsplete, Joan left to walk home and Ferrar disappeared. The goblin couldnt leave by the front door with them and had to sneak out. That left Khita and cknail alone again.


    Lets get out of here before we run into one of the olddies that live here. I swear the hags have nothing better to do than bug me, Khitained as she turned to watch the street. She looked in both directions as if she was afraid someone was trying to sneak up on her.


    On the way out of the vige, they stopped by Geralhds again. cknail still needed to pick up his cheese. By this time, Tannin was gone and Geralhd met them at the door.


    Here you go. Someday soon I think Im going to have to check out this base of yours, Geralhd remarked as he handed the package of cheese over to cknail. It smelled like a good batch. He could tell because, it burned his nose when he tried to sniff it.


    Er you cant do that, cknail told him as he tucked the precious bit of dairy away in his cloak. Geralhd didnt know about Elyias or the horde of goblins there.


    Why not? Geralhd asked. The quick reply had made him curious.


    Its a secret? cknail muttered uncertainly. The cheese fumes were still clouding his brain. He was still seeing shes of color.


    One of Geralhds eyebrows rose. You have a secret base?


    A grimace appeared on cknails face. It sounded dumb when Geralhd said it like that.


    Theres a huge wolf pack in the area. Theyve been acting aggressively so it wouldnt be safe, Khita added.


    Ya, that, cknail agreed. How was Khita being so helpful? She had covered for him several times. It was weird. The hobgoblin scratched his nose. Maybe he was just having an off day?


    Oh, well take care of yourselves, Geralhd told them. At the first sign of danger he hadpletely changed his mind about joining them.


    Were not afraid of any wolves, Khita replied confidently. cknail didnt agree with her. He was tactically cautious about anythingrger than him that wanted to eat him.


    After saying their goodbyes, cknail and Khita headed out the vige gates. They crossed the fields and met up with Ferrar and the other goblins, who were waiting for them. Well, one goblin was missing, but cknail was sure it would show upter, or not. The important thing was that they had aplished their mission.


    Did you learn what you wanted to? cknail asked Ferrar.


    Yep, I know many new things about fire and y! I can burn more now, Ferrar replied eagerly.


    Did you learn how to cook or make better food, cknail asked suspiciously. That was the reason he had agreed to let Ferrare along.


    Um, yes. I learned about ovens, the goblin replied carefully.


    Good. Good, cknail muttered as he turned away. He had gotten his hands on cheese, new ways of cooking, and convinced the stupid humans to let goblins inside their vige. Things were looking up.

 It Echoes Onward 5

    It Echoes Onward 5


    Although cknail stopped every time he heard a twig break and studied every bush for signs of vering monsters, he and the others made it back to the goblinir without an incident. None of them were picked off by giant wolves, not even Khita. cknail didnt understand how she had survived so long.


    The base was much the same as they had left it, which was unsurprising since less than a day had passed. After doing a quick patrol to make sure nothing suspicious was going on, cknail retired for the night. He was feelingzy after so much walking.


    When he woke up the next morning and went to grab some breakfast, there were signs of new construction going on. Over by the y-works the hobgoblin Imp was busy constructing a building of his own. It looked like a smaller version of the longhouse Gob had built, except round. Out in front of it, Ferrar was busy digging a small pit, while goblins piled y up beside him into a huge heap. As was normal for a project involving goblins, it was chaotic mess as goblins ran about in every direction. Half of them were so dirty they looked like mobile piles of mud. Only around Imp was there any sense of order. The hobgoblins presence cowed the nearby goblins.


    What are you doing? Why do you need so much y? cknail asked Ferrar as he wandered over to take a look. Was the goblin going to fill the hole with y and bathe in it? cknail knew Ferrar really liked y, but that seemed silly and impractical.


    Building a furnace, Ferrar answered as he continued to dig energetically.


    Out of y?


    Yes, fire hardens it. Fire is great! You use y and fire to make more y and more fire. You can never have enough! I need more fire! Ferrar exined as he gestured energetically at the empty hole in the ground and the pile of y beside it.


    This seemed dumb to cknail, but what did he know? He was only the smartest hobgoblin ever to live.


    And you can use it to make food? cknail enquired in a firm tone. It was important to keep everyones priorities straight. He was the leader.


    Yep, that too, the goblin replied absent-mindedly without looking up.


    cknail rolled his eyes and looked over at Imp for a few moments. The hobgoblin was still busy building the hut and ordering goblins around. Feeling assured that none of his nearby minions were cking off, going crazy, going crazier, or nning to kill him, cknail yawned and went to find some that were. He wanted some excitement.


    Eventually, he gave up and decided to head back to Shelter. He had promised to deliver some goblins to them, and that sounded like it would be pretty amusing. After rounding up Khita and a pack of goblins, he headed out back into the forest. Khita was basically part of his disguise. Most of the people in the vige seemed to like her, for some reason. However, they also nned to solve their goblin problem by importing more goblins, so they obviously werent that smart.


    After the walk through the woods, cknail and Khita met up with Tannin inside the gates. As promised, they brought a pair of leashed goblins with them. cknail had chosen them because they both looked big andzy. Thus they wererge enough to fight off other goblins and not energetic enough to get into trouble. They had both volunteered  after being grabbed and leashed - when they had learned that they would be getting free food without having to do anything to earn it.


    So these are the critters, eh? Tannin mused as he studied the goblins. He looked and sounded skeptical.


    Yes, I trained them myself, cknail replied. He had smacked them aside the head and told them to behave. That counted as training.


    Do they obeymands?


    A few simple ones, like sit ande.


    And having them around will keep other goblins out?


    Yes, goblins are very territorial.


    These new guards were probably some of the same goblins that had been causing the problems in the first ce, but cknail wasnt going to mention that. In his experience, there were a lot of things humans were better off not knowing. It would only bother them.


    After exining a few things and promising to deliver more goblins if the current pair worked out, cknail and Khita headed back. As they emerged from the trees around the goblinir they were presented with a great view of the clearing. Work was being done on building a second longhouse, Imp was building his own small hut, and there were almost a dozen fire-pits scattered around the camp. However, the biggest change was the wall. The barrier of wooden stakes now stretched around almost half the exterior. The clearing had changed drastically since cknail had shown up. It used to look like an empty cluster of rocky hills. Now it was beginning to look like a proper base.


    Feeling proud of himself, cknail decided to stroll around. It wasnt like he was busy, anyway. Imps hut was the most novel change so he decided to check it out again. It also wouldnt be a bad idea to make sure Imp wasnt plotting anything dangerous. cknail was still expecting an attempt on his life.


    As he walked over, cknail spotted a heap of stuff piled outside the door of Imps home. None of it looked like it had been made by goblins hands. There was a pair of iron pots, some ss jars containing random powders or creams, a small pile of silverware, and a live chicken in cage. The terrified bird stared at the hobgoblin with mad eyes. What did Imp want with a live chicken? Was it just a snack or something else entirely? cknail had no idea, but he doubted it was part of an assassination attempt, unless Imp nned on poisoning it...


    The hobgoblin chieftain looked around for a few seconds, before creeping up to the door and peering inside. He didnt want to interrupt Imps work, or walk into a trap. At first nce, there didnt appear to be anything suspicious going on inside. Imp was busy hanging things from the ceiling and storing things on crudely made shelves. However, after looking closer cknail recognized some of the items. He saw a metal scale and a ss jar from Mahediumsb! Imp had been carrying that stuff in his bag, but cknail had taken that bag away from him and hidden it after Imp had be a hobgoblin!


    Hey, where did you find that? I hid that bag! cknail asked as he stepped inside and frowned.


    Imp jumped slightly in surprise and then spun around. He then studied cknail for a quick second before answering. My bag? I found it in a hollow tree. I just followed my nose. It has a strong smell.


    There was a friendly expression on Imps face as cknail glowered at him. Damned hobgoblins, cknail didnt like it when they used his own tricks against him. He wished he could ouw it. It wasnt fair.


    Did you want it back? Imp asked respectfully.


    No, you can keep it. Im a generous leader, so you can consider it a gift, cknail replied. Imp would have already taken out and hidden all the important things anyway.


    Since there was nothing else to do here, cknail decided to leave. He was a little disappointed. Neither Scamp nor Imp had tried to overthrow him, and didnt seem to even want to. What a bunch ofyabouts! What kind of hobgoblins were they?


    On his way out, cknail spotted Ferrarstest project. The pit he had dug had been filled in by a mound of y that rose several feet into the air. There was a big hole in one side and another at the top. Ash was spilling out of the bottom hole. It looked like Ferrar had been burning things in the mound to harden the y. cknail quickly lost interest in the mound and wandered off. It was just y.


    Since cknail had no idea where Scamp was, he went to talk to Gob instead. There was no need to even look for him, since cknail could hear him yelling orders every once in a while. Gobs voice led cknail over to the newest section of the wall. The other hobgoblin was busy supervising the construction, as he had been ordered. Gob was very obedient. cknail needed more hobgoblins just like him.


    Good job keeping the goblins in line. Youre doing great work, cknail congratted the other hobgoblin.


    Thank you, supreme leader. I live to obey, Gob replied as he turned and bowed ever so slightly. The gesture caused the hobgoblin to lower his eyes submissively. He had just been watching the goblins working on the wall.


    Good to know, cknail replied happily. Im looking for Scamp. Have you seen him around?


    Hes over by that hill. Hes sleeping, because I punched him out and tied him up.


    Oh, did you get tired of his stupidity? One of cknails eyebrows rose in surprise. He could understand if that was the case.


    No, he tried to bash my head in with log. He was helping me build the wall and I turned my back on him, but I kept my ears open, Gob exined as he wiggled his long green ears. I let him live as youmanded.


    Good job, cknail replied with even more cheer. Maybe there was hope for Scamp yet!


    Both of the hobgoblins had earned a reward. He would take them hunting for big game. That was a fun activity that they could all do together! There was nothing like killing things to help hobgoblins bond. It was also one of the few jobs left that only cknail could do, so if he trained some recements then he could ck off more.


    After getting directions, cknail went to fetch Scamp. He found the other hobgoblin at the base of a nearby hill. Just as Gob had said, he was tied up by ropes. One of them even ran around his head and through his mouth so that he couldnt talk. Scamp was lying on his back and staring at the sky, but he looked over and started fidgeting when he heard cknail approach.


    You tried to kill Gob, hes my second-inmand, cknail used Scamp as he leaned over him. Youre not good enough to rece him. Try it again and Ill boil you alive.


    There was a muffled whimpering sound as Scamp nodded desperately in agreement, so cknail sighed and began untying him. A few minutester, he led the two other hobgoblins over to his cave and had them wait outside while he grabbed some things. When he returned he was carrying three bow staves.


    These are for you, cknail told them as he held two of the weapons out. Were going to go hunting.


    He then taught them how to string and maintain the bows. One of the bows was for cknail himself. It was the one his master had given to him in Daggerpoint and it was made from a weird type of wood that was very hard and flexible. The other two bows had been taken from enemies, or enemies that had used to be friends until they werent.


    Once they had fired off a few practice arrows at a log, the hobgoblins headed off into the forest. They were mostly there to learn from cknails amazing skills, so they could practice uracyter.


    If you shoot anyone in the back it wont stop me from tearing your limbs off, cknail warned Scamp.


    I would never do that, boss! Im loyal and obedient, Scamp replied nervously. He had been eyeing Gob and ying with his bow when the other hobgoblins back was turned.


    With a disdainful huff, cknail led them past the creek. They jumped across its muddy banks and went deeper into the Green. Most animals worth hunting avoided the area around the goblins camp.


    The trio trudged through the greenery before stumbling upon a fresh set of tracks. cknail took the time to point them out and give the other hobgoblins some tips on tracking. He then told them to be quiet and started following the trail.


    A few minutester, cknail spotted a flicker of movement. Most of the trees here were huge things with smooth grey bark and trunks wide enough for several people to hide behind. They were fairly widely spaced apart, but row upon row of the trees stretched out in front of the group, and clusters of thick roots grew around the trees bases. Around a hundred feet ahead, a herd of deer were walking between the trees.


    There were about a dozen of the graceful beasts. Their brown spotted coats camouged in with the dark ground and bushes. They would have been hard to make out if they had been holding still and hadnt been walking. At the head of the herd was arge stag with magnificent antlers that were over a foot long. The stag looked warily around in every direction as he led his herd through the woods.


    cknail raised a hand and motioned for the others to be silent, and then started to creep through the trees. He wanted to slip around the herd and cut them off so he could get a better shot. It was a maneuver that humans would have had difficulty doing, but hobgoblins were naturally stealthy and this was their element. They simply had to follow their primal instincts. Hunting and creeping up on unexpecting prey was what they did best.


    Scamp and Gob fell in behind cknail as he hunched down and scampered quietly around the deer. asionally, one of the beasts would nce over in their direction, but none of them noticed the approaching predators. The hobgoblins moved with an eerie precision and quiet that surprised even cknail. Sometimes he forgot that Scamp and Gob had been born in the wild. Even if they hadnt been taught by the greatest ranger ever to live like he had, they had survived on their own in these very forests for years.


    There was a thick tree positioned ahead of the herd and a bit to the side. cknail snuck up to the trees trunk and hid himself behind it. The other two hobgoblins joined him a secondter. The grey behemoth easily concealed all of them, and cknail quickly peeked around it. The deer were still headed towards them. If they didnt change course they would pass within easy bowshot of the hobgoblins hiding ce.


    As they waited, cknail prepped his bow and drew an arrow. Scamp and Gob copied him. Once ready, cknail rxed and waited for the right time to strike. The stag wandered within a hundred feet and started to walk past the tree. The herd was moving parallel to cknails group now. Every step now carried the lead deer further away.


    From behind the tree, cknail chose a target and drew his bow back. He would leave the stag alone and aim for one of the closer does. The hobgoblin could already taste the sweet deer flesh. He grinned wickedly as he let his arrow fly. The projectile zoomed through the air. It closed in on the doe''s nk, and then passed under it. There was a thud as the quivering arrow sunk into the ground. cknail had missed.


    Turtle shit, he cursed to himself. There must have been wind or something.


    The noise and sh of movement from the arrow alerted the deer. The herd all perked up and then began to run off into the trees, away from the hobgoblins. That was when another arrow whirred past cknail and hit the nk of one of the fleeing deer. The animal crumpled onto the ground, and the other deer left it behind as they dashed out of sight.


    cknail turned around and saw Scamp holding an empty bow. There was a big happy grin on his face.


    I set that up for you, cknail told him tly. It had probably been beginners luck.


    Thanks boss, Scamp replied. He was still smiling, and that annoyed cknail.


    Since you shot it, youre carrying the carcass back, he told Scamp.


    Gob helped tie the deer to a long pole and then he and Scamp began carrying it back to base. As they walked, cknail told them stories about Saeter and taught them little tracking tricks. If it looked like the other hobgoblins werent paying enough attention then he kicked them in the ass, hard. He would tolerate no disrespect towards his old master.


    It hadnt been so long ago that cknail had been the one learning this way. A feeling of sad nostalgia came over the hobgoblin. He missed his master.


    It was starting to get dark by the time they returned to the goblin camp. The main cooking campfire was burning and so were a few of the smaller ones, like where Ferrar was busy firing y. The little goblin never seemed to stop burning things. Sure fire looked pretty and all, but there were other things to life.


    The hobgoblins dropped the deer carcass over by the drying rack. The nearby goblins watched with interest and a hungry gleam in their eyes. The smell of blood was strong. Just as cknail was ordering Gob and Scamp to prepare the meat, Elyias marched over. The goblins scattered out of his way as he walked up to cknails side.


    What is it? cknail asked. Something must have happened. Elyias almost never sought him


    out.


    I was doing my rounds and I found four sleeping goblins with signs of growing horns. Thats what you told me to watch out for, the young man answered anxiously.


    Elyias had been ced in charge of watching the goblins for signs of transformation. He had been a natural choice for the job, since he wasnt a goblin himself, he was already paranoid about hobgoblins, and it didnt take much in the way of intelligence.


    cknail arched his back andughed. The shrill sound rang out above the camp. Goblins fell silent and looked his way with both curiosity and fear. Even Elyias looked ufortable as the loud inhuman sound filled the air. cknail ignored them and shared his joy with world. Behind him, the campfire crackled and threw light up against the hills.


    Finally! He had waited so long. Things had been going infuriatingly slowly, but now his scheme was starting to pay off! He needed hobgoblins and now he was getting them. They were the entire reason he had bothered building up this grimy little base. He needed the goblins to be well fed and feel secure so they would transform.


    Stillughing, cknail contemted the future. It was time to move on to the next part of his n. Vengeance against Werrick would be his. He needed to rip the man apart with his own two hands. No one took what was his.

 It Echoes Onward 6

    It Echoes Onward 6


    The sound of mad hobgoblinughter cascaded through the rocky clearing. cknail was full of exhration now that his ns were finallying to fruition. Theughter was just bubbling out of him. Nothing could stop him from getting his terrible revenge!


    What in all the hells is cknail up to? Did he get hit in the head? Khita asked as she scowled and walked over. She had a finger deep in one of her ears and was twisting it around.


    I wouldnt get to close. He might scratch you or something. He seems really wound up, Elyias replied dryly. He was walking beside her.


    cknail stoppedughing and turned to re at the two humans. They were ruining this for him. Well, whatever. He would get them backter, Elyias especially. cknail had ns for him.


    Smiling smugly to himself, cknail ignored the humans and immediately went to work preparing for the next phase of his scheme. Now that he had built up his base enough to start producing hobgoblins, it was time to introduce a bit of chaos and excitement into the system. Chaos created opportunity, and cknail excelled at taking advantage of opportunities.


    The hobgoblin chieftain grabbed a sack from off the ground as he walked. He had no idea where it came from, but that didnt matter. Some goblin had probably stolen it from Shelter.


    The next thing he needed was light, so the hobgoblin built a primitive torch from a branch and some dry rope and cloth. He wandered over to the y firing pit to set it ame, but his first few attempts failed to produce a useable amount of fire. The end of the torch just ckened and smoked.


    Imp has light, Ferrar said from nearby. The goblin had been working but he had stopped to watch cknails efforts. As usual, his eyes shone with perceptive intelligence.


    I know that, cknail muttered as he futilely poked the fire onest time. He didnt like failing in front of his minions. Stupid torch.


    The hobgoblin then threw his failed torch on the fire and headed for Imps hut. It wouldnt surprise cknail if there was a torch or something among all the junk Imp had piled up there. He seemed to have everything else.


    There was a shuffling sound from inside as cknail walked up to the door. Imp was inside. He was walking around his home as he picked up and put down a plethora of small items. Every once in a while he would stop and stare intently into one of tworge y pots.


    cknail coughed to get his attention, and when Imp looked over he spoke up. Your leader  me - is looking for a light so I can go into a dark cave. Give me light.


    Ah, I have that, Imp replied.


    He nodded enthusiastically and then walked over to a shelf. He picked something up off of it and then turned to show it to cknail. In the center of the hobgoblins hand was a small transparent crystal.


    Oh, right, magic, cknail replied. He remembered those crystals; Mahedium had used to make them. Good job acquiring something so useful, Imp. I thought your bag was full of useless trash.


    No, I made this, Imp exined. You just need a pot, special dirt, and blood.


    Huh, its not going to blow up, is it? cknail asked warily as he took a step back. He then nced nervously at the contents of all the nearby shelves. Mahediums workshop had tended to explode every now and then.


    No, light stones dont go boom, only the more interesting and harder to make stones do that. Im just growing light makers. The worse they do is cut your fingers with their sharp edges, or burn your eyes out and blind you. Just dont look directly at them for too long.


    Ah, that doesnt sound too bad, cknail mused aloud. Even the sun could blind you, and some of cknails favorite possessions were designed to cut people.


    Imp quickly agreed to follow his glorious chieftain, and the pair headed over to the deepest cave in the camp. Since cknail wasnt a mage he couldnt use the light stone, and thus Imp had toe along.


    Cautiously, cknail jumped down the ledge that led to the cavern. He walked through the cave entrance and looked around. It was too dark for him to see anything inside, even though the sun was still shining brightly outside. He could barely make out the rock studded walls of the dark tunnel, and the way forward was nothing but a murky ck void.


    As Imp stepped up behind cknail, light flooded out to fill the tunnel. Suddenly, the cracks and crags in the grey stone walls werepletely visible. cknail could see down into the cave until the way forward curved out of sight. The floor was dirty and uneven. Short spiky stctites hung from the ceiling. cknail nced back over his shoulder and saw Imp holding one hand up above his head. The light was pouring out from between the hobgoblins fingers.


    Follow me, cknail ordered Imp as he turned back around and began walking deeper into the cavern. He was in no way afraid of the light going out and being stranded all alone in the dark. He was just going to keep very close to Imp.


    The two hobgoblins carefully made their way deeper into the cave. After only a few moments of scrambling over rocks and cracks in the floor, they reached their destination. The cave abruptly ended at a wall of loose rock. It looked like the ceiling had copsed, but that wasnt why they were here. The light pouring out from Imps stone was thrown back by something embedded in the cave wall. It sparkled with a yellowish tint.


    Ah, yellow shiny rocks, Imp observed as he leaned closer.


    Its called gold! cknail exined proudly. He still knew a lot of things that Imp didnt. The other hobgoblin wasnt as smart as he liked to pretend he was.


    Its pretty, but what is it for? Imp asked. He seemed sure they werent here just to admire the view or get a new shiny trinket to y with.


    You use it to trick humans. They go all crazy when they see gold. All their favorite coins are made from it, cknail replied confidently. He didnt have aplete understanding of how currency worked, but he knew that was one of the most important parts.


    You want to trick some humans?


    No, I want to trick all of them, cknail exined as he spread his arms apart as if he was trying to grab something gigantic. There was a fierce smile on his face.


    Ah, that sounds like fun, Imp replied cheerfully as he studied the gold. He wasnt looking at cknail.


    You dont sound like you believe me, cknail observed crossly. Impsck of enthusiasm was a little insulting. When we leave I will show you how it works with Elyias. Youll see; hes easy.


    cknail and Imp then spent a few minutes gathering up any loose yellow rocks they could find. The sack cknail had brought was just starting to get ufortably heavy, when he heard a wet sloshing sound from behind him. It was quickly followed by the thud of a falling rock.


    Both of the hobgoblins turned and looked at each other. Upon seeing that the other was just as confused as them, they both nced over their shoulders. The noise hade from the barrier of fallen rock behind them. As they watched, there was another sshing sound from somewhere out of sight.


    You should check it out. In fact, I order you to, as the leader, cknail told Imp.


    If I die then we lose the light, and youre a much tougher fighter, Imp quickly countered.


    Those were good points. This was why cknail hated smart minions. He should have brought someone expandable, like a goblin.


    Ugh, fine, he muttered as he tiptoed over towards the source of the sound. It was probably a rat or something.


    The rocks in front of him were piled up on each other to form a steep slope. The light from the mana stone didnt light it all up because its surface was so uneven. Instead, the uneven rocks were covered in slowly shifting shadows. There were several dark gaps in the rock that looked disconcertedly deep. Some of them might even prate right through the rocks and lead to a chamber on the other side of the copse.


    A sh of movement and another wet sound drew cknails attention. Something was moving on the other side of a tall grey rock. The hobgoblin leaned sideways to get a better look, just as something stepped into sight. The empty eye sockets of a human skull stared at cknail, and he stared back.


    Um, what? cknail eximed in surprise. Below the skull, a frame of bones formed aplete standing skeleton.


    Did you know that human bones could walk around? cknail asked Imp as he stared at the sight before him and slowly reached down to draw his sword.


    Human remains didnt scare the hobgoblin all that much. Even living humans werent typically that dangerous, and they were usually in much better shape than corpses, but it was better to be safe than sorry.


    I didnt know that. It seems a little weird. None of the other dead humans Ive seen could walk, and goblin bones dont do that, Imp replied as he gazed past cknail. He sounded a little surprised. Maybe we both ate a bad mushroom?


    Before cknail could reply, the skeleton took a shambling step forward and cknail was forced to take a wary step back from it. The moving corpse was still mostly in the shadows, and he was in no hurry to fight it. How did you kill a pile of bones anyway?


    Here, let me help, Imp said. I dont think were seeing it right.


    A secondter, Imp held his hand out and the light he was holding grew much brighter. The white glow of the stone suddenly illuminated the skeleton as it stepped forward again, and cknail got a good look at it.


    Oh, its covered in slime, he observed as he suddenly had a realization.


    The human bones were wrapped in transparent goo, and it was very familiar looking to cknail. Before he could finish his thought though, the skeleton suddenly lurched forward and swung an arm at him. cknail dodged under the blow and stabbed the attacking monster in the stomach. The de sank into the slime and bounced harmlessly off of bone.


    The skeleton didnt appear to have been harmed. It ignored the blow and swung at him again. cknail was forced to throw himself back out of the way. His de came free with a wet sucking sound. After stumbling, he caught his bnce and raised his sword up into a guard.


    You could help, cknail hissed at Imp.


    How? I have no sword and Im not touching that. It looks icky, he replied.


    Magic?


    Were standing a little close. The boom is big, Imp answered skeptically.


    Fine, Ill do it myself, cknail told him as he stepped in and took another swing the shambling pile of bones and ooze. The attack hit, but once again it aplished next to nothing. The thick slime slowed the blow enough that the bones were barely damaged by the strike.


    This wasnt the first ooze monster cknail had ever fought, but this one was noticeably tougher than thest. Oozes usually had vulnerable organs, but this ones were protected by the skeletons ribcage. The stolen human bones also allowed to it to walk instead of rolling around, and its arms gave it some reach. Every time the skeleton iled at cknail tendrils rose off the monsters arms and reached for him.


    Again and again, cknail sliced and swung his sword but the ooze remained unfazed. The hobgoblin was forced to retreat as the skeleton lurched towards him with outstretched arms. If the slime got a hold of him it would be difficult to get free and the monster would quickly squeeze the life from him.


    This fight wasnt going anywhere. The skeleton was too slow to hit cknail, but he couldnt hurt it either. He needed to change things up. Imp certainly wasnt helping. He was just standing back and watching the fight. That wasnt what minions were for!


    Youre going to make me do this, arent you? cknail muttered at Imp as he readied himself.


    A secondter, he lunged towards the slime. He was holding his sword down low, and as he charged he thrust it towards the skeletons chest with all his might. He needed to break some bones.


    Before the slime could react, cknails sword mmed into its chest. The tip of the de cut through the slime and hit a pair of ribs. For a moment, the bones seemed to stop the attack, but then they shattered. The de slipped right through the skeletons chest.


    Unfortunately for cknail, he couldnt stop his charge. He had built up way too much momentum. It carried him right into his opponent, and they both fell over in a tangle.


    Ugh, this feels icky! cknail cried after hitting the ground. The slime had already begun enveloping him. It had firm hold on him now, and that wasnt good.


    Suppressing his disgust, cknail let go of his sword and fought to keep one hand free. As the slime spread towards his face and pulled him down, the hobgoblin plunged his hand through the skeletons broken ribs and began feeling around. The thick slime moved around his fingers and made it hard to tell if he was hitting anything. He needed to destroy the things organs.


    The ooze bubbled up and covered cknails mouth. The hobgoblin couldnt get free now and he had only a few seconds left to find his opponents weak spot. Where was the damned thing? He should have already grabbed it. This wasnt the first time cknail had stuck his hand inside a human chest cavity, it wasnt thatrge!


    A burning sensation red to life within cknails lungs. He couldnt breathe, or even get his hands loose so he could try to pry his mouth open. Where in all the hells was that organ! What did humans even mean when the talked about the hells? It was all so confusing. He was getting too weak


    A loud cracking noise splintered the quiet, right next to cknails head. He flinched and nced in that direction. The sight of a shattered skull filled his vision. Arge rock had smashed open the dome of the slimes stolen skull, and a pair of green hands was holding the rock. As cknail watched, ck fluid began to leak out of the cracked remains of the skulls eye sockets, and the slime holding him went limp. The organ had been in the skull, not the chest.


    That was my n all along. I set that up for you, cknail told Imp as he sat up and began coughing. There was slime in his throat. It did not taste great.


    Of course, boss. Your mighty struggle was amazing, Imp replied tly.


    cknail wasnt sure if he was being sincere, but he was too tired  and slimy - to care right now. He stood up and began wiping himself off. The fallen skeleton was at his feet and the now inactive ooze was sloughing off of its bones.


    Before he was anywhere near clean, there was a scuttling sound from where the slime hade from. Both hobgoblins looked over to see a pale crab-like creature emerge from the rocks and stare back at them. It was the size of arge dog.


    Lets get out of here, cknail told Imp.


    The other hobgoblin didnt argue. cknail grabbed the sack of gold and they scrambled out of the cave. They had gotten what they hade for anyway, so there was no point in sticking around.


    The first thing cknail did after leaving the cave was to jump in a deep pool of water and change his clothes. Once all the slime had been washed away, cknail and Imp went to talk to Elyias. They found the man sitting atop one of the hills at the edge of the camp. He was looking outward towards the forest, and his slouching posture made him seem tired and depressed. What a whiner.


    What do you want? Elyias asked when he spotted the hobgoblins approaching.


    What do you want? cknail countered cheerfully.


    To leave and get back to civilization, Elyias replied. He didnt sound amused.


    Alright, Ill take you there.


    Are are you being serious?


    Why would I lie?


    Because you find it amusing?


    cknail fought to keep the serious look on his face. Elyias had him there, but that wasnt the case now. No, I want to take you back to humannds. Do you want to go?


    Like all the demons in all the hells are chasing me, Elyias replied. His eyes had gone wide with surprise and hope. It was sort of cute, in a kickable way.


    Good, we leave tomorrow, cknail told the young man. The hobgoblins lips had twisted into an amused grin. There are just two things you have to do for me?


    Oh?


    First, Imand you to tell everyone about Shelter. You need to convince people toe here.


    Ha, whatever floats your boat. Get me out of the wilds and Ill do anything you say.


    cknail grinned knowingly to himself. Elyias thought he was being clever. cknail knew the man nned on running at the first chance he got. Why did humans always underestimate him? Yes, you will. You wont run or forget my orders because of the second thing I need from you.


    Whats that? Elyias asked cautiously.


    I need you to take this with you, cknail exined as he reached into the sac and pulled out a lump of yellow rock. When youve done as youve been told, I will give you more.


    Thats highly suspicious, Elyias observed as he stared at the gold. But I really cant say no.


    No. No, you cant, cknail replied as he winked at an impressed looking Imp.

 It Echoes Onward 7

    It Echoes Onward 7


    Do you remember what you have to do? cknail asked.


    Ya, its not thatplicated, just stupid. Why are you doing this? Elyias countered.


    The hobgoblin and the young man were standing outside of a small inn. cknail was hooded to conceal his unnaturally good looks, so that he wouldnt attract attention. After trudging back along the route through the forest they had taken to Shelter, the pair had eventually found a major human road, which had led them here to this inn. The journey had taken a week and all of it had been long and boring. cknail had spent the entire time annoying Elyias and making him do chores, most of which had been utterly pointless, but fun to watch.


    You dont need to know why Im doing this. Just repeat your orders. Its important, cknail hissed at Elyias.


    Fine, Im supposed to find some of Werricks men and tell them about Shelter. Im not supposed to mention you or any of Herads old minions, but I have to tell them about there being heaps of gold there.


    Good, and do you remember what will happen if you dont obey my orders or mess this up by doing some stupid human thing?


    I remember. You promised to gut me like a fish and hang my nude corpse from a vige gate, Elyias replied dryly.


    You make me sound so mean! Im just trying to help you remember everything properly. Motivation is important! cknail protested. Also, on that topic, dont think I wont find you if you try to run. I can follow you through a city. Herads enemies werent safe from me in Daggerpoint. I hunted them down like rats.


    Rats? What? Agh, never mind. I thought I was finally going to be free of you, Elyias muttered under his breath as he turned towards the inn door.


    cknails ears were sensitive enough to pick up his words, but he just smiled to himself. He didnt say anything as Elyias disappeared through the door, leaving cknail alone on the long dusty road.


    The inn was an isted building that served as a safe house for travelers. It was a solidly built structure that looked like it had been designed with defense in mind. There was a stable off to one side, and cknail could hear several horses neighing and whinnying inside it. The hobgoblin had to resist the urge to burn the whole thing down. Killing a few disgusting and obnoxious horses wasnt worth messing up his amazing n. The stable did look really mmable though. There was hay everywhere


    I paid for a good bed. I demand better than this! a woman yelled from inside the inn. The noise derailed cknails train of thought.


    Well, Elyias is finally back among his own kind, whiny people, so I should get moving, the hobgoblin told himself before turning and starting to walk away.


    He had a long journey ahead of himself. Without stopping , he travelled down the road for the rest for the day. By the time the sun was starting to set he had almost driven himself crazy.


    He was so bored! He hated being alone. He wasnt used to it anymore. cknail hissed in frustration as he looked down the road. Being the leader was pointless if there was no one to brag to or boss around. He already regretted leaving Elyias behind, but hed had no choice. The n was more important than anything else. He would just have to find another human that was even more fun to torment.


    Boredom was one of the main reasons he hadnt be a feral hobgoblin after Saeter had died. It had been tempting to leave the whiny humans behind, but if hed obeyed his instincts and ran off into the woods then there wouldnt be anyone for him to agonize or lord-over. Being around stupid humans and shifty-eyed hobgoblins he couldnt trust was dangerous, but there was more to life than just living, like cheese.


    When night came, cknail pulled off his pack and unrolled his nket. He was always able to find some sort of crevice or nook to sleep in. The forest was full of predators, but only a few of them hunted during the ckest part of the night, and fewer still would dare prey on a hobgoblin.


    By the third day, hiking along the dusty road past all the trees was really starting to get old. If he looked up, there were some clouds and some mountains on the horizon, but those werent exactly riveting either. cknail found himself talking to random birds that were up in the trees. They chirped a lot but they didnt talk back.


    When cknail finally drew close to his destination, several more days had passed, and he was desperate forpany. All the hobgoblins had been too busy toe with him, every goblin was worthless, and hed rather swallow a spiny toad than spend so much time alone with Khita. However, he should have forced at least one of the hobgoblins toe along. There was several hours worth of hiking left until he got home, and they were going to be excruciatingly dull.


    Letting out a deep sigh, cknail passed underneath a huge nted tree that overshadowed the path. The giant had partially fallen over some time ago, but it was still alive. The forest around the hobgoblin was quiet. The short leafy bushes and tall tree trunks around him were still.


    Suddenly, an ufortable tingle spread across cknails back and up his neck. Was it perhaps too quiet? Wasnt there usually more birdsong and scurrying noises? cknail stopped walking. He turned to look around. Nothing seemed out of ce, but he still felt on edge.


    Cautiously, cknail began walking again. He couldnt just wait around all day. He had ces to be. If he was walking a little quicker than before it wasnt because he was afraid. Ha, that would be ridiculous. He was the hunter, not the hunted.


    Just then, cknail heard a rustling. It sounded like something was in the bushes, and creeping closer to him. He kept walking as if he hadnt heard anything, but he also surreptitiously nced over his shoulder towards the noise. Out of the corner of his eye he saw a patch of grey fur. cknail began to walk a little faster and one of his hands grasped the hilt of his de. He really should have brought someone else along.


    As he hustled along the path, cknail was careful to keep his eyes open and to walk close to tree trunks so one of his sides was covered. A snapping sound from behind him - like a twig breaking - reminded him that he was being followed. He needed to do something about that, but first he needed to figure out exactly what sort of situation he was in. Proper tactics were important.


    There was a huge tree up ahead. The giant stood alone; no bushes or other trees were within two dozen feet of it. Its trunk was wider than cknails arms and covered in pale smooth bark. Most importantly, there was a pair of low hanging branches on it. cknail dashed forward towards the tree. When he reached it, he nted his feet, and drew his de as he spun around. The sword whirred through the air until it came to a stop up in a guard position in front of cknails face. The hobgoblin grimaced in determination as he took a defensive stance and prepared himself forbat.


    Immediately, there was an explosion of leaves, as several low shapes burst out from the underbrush. Four of them were normal wolves, while the fifth was muchrger and had a small crystalline horn on its head. It was the mutant wolf that attacked cknails base! The alpha snarled as it led its pack mates in a charge towards the hobgoblin warrior. The beasts eyes shone with mad hunger.


    Nope, bye, cknail eximed as he dropped his sword.


    The hobgoblin then turned and leaped towards the closest branch on the tree behind him. There was no way he was going to fight so many wolves by himself. As he grabbed the branch and began pulling himself up, one of the wolves jumped after him.


    Ah, my butt! I need that, cknail screeched as a set of teeth grazed his ass and tore through his pants.


    The hanging hobgoblin flinched and quickly threw himself up out of the way. Hended on top of a solid branch, and then immediately jumped up to the next one, just in case. Only then did he stop and take a second to nce at the seat of his pants. There was a long gash through them, although the skin beneath had only been scratched. The wound hurt, though. His butt was a tender area, and the damage to his trousers annoyed cknail. He didnt have a lot of spare pairs of pants. They were difficult to loot unless you didnt mind them smelling really bad. In battle, humans leaked quite a few different fluids, none of which were fragrant.


    Beneath him, the alpha wolf leaped up onto the side of the tree and began scrambling up the bark. It growled as its jaws snapped on empty air. Up on his branch, cknail flinched again and leaned back away. However, the huge beast quickly lost its grip. It slipped back down to the ground andnded on all fours.


    Ha, youre just a stupid mutt without any hands. Grow some thumbs, loser, cknailughed as he stuck his tongue out.


    The alpha stared up at the hobgoblin. Its yellow eyes were narrowed hatefully. cknail spat down at it, but his wet projectile missedpletely, and the alpha growled again.


    Just wait, I got a present for you! cknail said as he rummaged around in his pouches for his sling.


    The wolf seemed to recognize the weapon, because as cknail began loading it, the beast let out a quick howl and then darted off back into the bushes. Itspanions followed it, leaving cknail up the tree with nothing to shoot at. Several minutes passed.


    Are they gone? cknail muttered darkly to himself as he tried to peer through the undergrowth below.


    The wolves werent visible, but that didnt mean they were really gone. They might beying in ambush, waiting for cknail toe down so they could tear him to bits. The alpha had seemed like a cunning beast with a twisty mind. It wasnt truly intelligent, of course, but it was the next best thing, sort of like a human.


    Everything was quiet for several more minutes as cknail waited up in the tree. The longer he waited the more frustrated he grew. This was not how a great hobgoblin chieftain was supposed to spend his time. He was a hunter without equal, not a squirrel. He should be doing hobgoblin chieftain things, like um sitting on a pile of skulls? Why didnt he have a pile of skulls? That sounded amazing.


    Wait, that was a problem for another time. He should focus on the situation at hand, the wolves. cknail thought over his options. He really only had two. Sit in the tree or climb down.


    They are probably gone. The dumb mutts probably lost interest and went to find something less dangerous to attack, cknail reassured himself before jumping down to the lower branch.


    He then carefully studied the nearby bushes before making thest leap down to the ground. When no vering wolves jumped out at him he picked his sword off the ground and resumed heading down the trail that led him back towards Shelter. It wasnt like he had much choice.


    Before he had gone more than a few feet, a loud crash and a squeal echoed through the trees. He tensed, but it sounded like it wasing from far away. Was it the wolves?


    After stopping and listening, cknail decided to check it out. If the wolves were really making all the noise he wanted to know what they were doing. He might be losing a chance to put some distance between himself and the beasts, but he much preferred being the hunter over the hunted. He wasnt about to let a bunch of arrogant dogs chase him all the way home.


    There was another loud squeal. cknail turned and began creeping towards the sound. He kept low and skulked through the bushes as he moved. His long green ears were erect as they listened for even the slightest sound. The tiniest warning could save him if this was a trick.


    cknail soon found what he was looking for. As he peered out from behind a tree, the hobgoblin saw an unfolding battle. There was a steep rocky cliff up ahead. At the base of the hill, the alpha wolf and several of its pack mates were circling around a herd of boars.


    One of the boars was a gigantic beast. It had dark brown fur with subtle ck stripes and long pointy tusks. The giant towered over even the alpha wolf by two or three feet. The normal wolves looked small and harmless next to its huge girth. Around half a dozen smaller pigs were hiding behind theirrgerpanion. They looked to be sticking close to a small crevice in the side of the hill and trying to keep out of the fight.


    With the support of his pack mates, the alpha was darting in to bite at therge boars heels and exposed nk. It was smaller than its prey but its speed and strength were unnatural. The alpha was having no trouble getting past the boars defenses. It showed no fear, and its teeth were already wet with blood.


    Since no one and nothing was looking in his direction, cknail decided to circle around and get a better view. He headed up towards the hill. That seemed like a defensible spot and he would definitely get a good view up there. The sounds of battle continued behind him as he moved.


    There were severalrge rocks on top of the hill. cknail crept up behind the one closest to the edge and looked down. At the bottom of the rocky ridge, one of the smaller wolves dove into the melee. It lunged at the back of one of the boars as the alpha distracted it, but it was too slow. The boar turned and head-butted the wolf before it could pull back. The wolf whined in pain as it was sent flying and hit a tree.


    This enraged the alpha wolf. It growled angrily, jumped on the boars back, and sank its long sharp teeth into the beasts neck. Another loud squeal filled the air as the boar bucked and tried to shake itself free. The other wolves took the opportunity to jump in and began harassing the smaller pigs. A ragged din of high-pitched squealing and hungry growls quickly filled the air.


    As cknail watched all this, he weighed his options. It certainly seemed like the wolves were going to win, and that wasnt good for him. They had already attacked both him and his tribe. Briefly, he considered stringing his bow and taking a shot at the alpha, but it would probably take more than an arrow or two to hurt a mutant like that.


    cknails attention was drawn back to the fight, when the boar finally managed to dislodge its attacker. It spun itself around in tight circle and the alpha came loose and hit the ground. The wolf rolled a few times before getting back to its feet, but the boar was already charging. The wolf tried to jump out of the way, but the huge pig managed to graze its foe. Its tusks cut into the wolfs side and drew blood.


    However, the now bloodied mutant was far from out of the fight. It calmlynded and began circling the boar again. Its yellow eyes were alive with excitement, not pain. The boar was the one that seemed to be on itsst legs. It was huffing and puffing fitfully as it limped around. It looked ready to copse at any second.


    Up above, cknail frowned to himself. The alpha was wounded and its pack mates were hurt and distracted. cknail knew he would likely never have a better chance than this to even the score. He needed toe up with a n, one that would actually work.


    The rock cknail was leaning on suddenly shifted ever so slightly, and a new idea urred to the hobgoblin. He grinned maliciously to himself as he looked around for a branch. He quickly found one he could use, so he jammed it under therge rock and began pushing. There was a low crack as the boulder came loose and began rolling down the hill. It hit several smaller stones on the way down and a small rockslide formed.


    The wave of jagged rock hurtled downwards at the beasts below. cknailughed joyfully at the sight and rubbed his hands together in glee. Down below, the alpha finally looked up and away from hisgging foe. The noise from all the fighting animals had been drowning out the sound of the rocks until they got closer. cknail was sure he saw a terrified expression appear on the wolfs face for a moment, before it howled fearfully and turned to run away.


    Toote! Youre going to get smooshed t, cknail yelled down at the mutant. There was a savage victorious grin on his face. No dog was ever going to get away with hurting him!


    That grin faltered though, when the ground beneath cknails feet suddenly shifted. He lost his bnce. There was a loud grinding noise from below, and then the part of the hill cknail was standing on began toe apart and slide down the slope.


    Ah, harpy shit, the hobgoblin cursed as he fell.

 It Echoes Onward 8

    It Echoes Onward 8


    Small stones bounced through the air all around cknail as he slid down the side of the hill. He desperately fought to keep his bnce, but the rocks beneath his feet kept moving. All he could do was to try not to hit anything on the way down. Arge rock rose before him, so the hobgoblin jumped to the side. Afternding, he had to reach down and catch himself, but he barely managed to keep from falling on his ass as he slid down the slope.


    At the bottom of the hill, the first wave of stones reached the beasts fighting down below. Most of the shards were small and harmless, but there were somerger ones, including the original boulder cknail had knocked free. That huge rock was rolling right towards the alpha wolf.


    The mutant wolf had turned and fled from his fight with the huge boar a few moments ago, when it had noticed the iing rockslide. The injured boar was too exhausted to escape, and it knew it. Instead of running, it turned to face the rocks and hunkered down. The other wolves and pigs were fleeing in all directions.


    The wave of stones washed over the huge boar and then rushed past it without slowing. Wolves and pigs were thrown in every direction and crushed by rock. The alpha wolf dodged to the side to avoid the huge boulder, but then a smaller rock smashed into its head. The mutant canine was sent rolling across the ground and was then hit by a shower of smaller stones.


    cknail would have cheered but he was too busy trying to keep himself in one piece. The hobgoblin was still sliding down the slope amidst a wave of dust and rock. Most therge rocks were in front of him but that didnt mean he was safe. There was a lot of momentum carrying him down the hill, and even a small rock could crack open his skull.


    A few moments and some near missester, the hobgoblin reached the bottom of the hill. He leaped over a pile of rocks and then kept running as he weaved his way forward past all the obstacles. As he ran, cknail tried to backpedal and slow himself down, but his momentum was too strong. Then he stepped on a small round stone.


    Oh no, the hobgoblin said as he tripped and his foot flew up into the air. This was going to hurt.


    It did. cknail hit the uneven ground hard. More than a few sharp stones dug into the flesh of his back. He gasped painfully as he started rolling. Even more pointy objects stabbed into him as he rolled. When he finally came to stop, a cloud of gravel fell on top of him.


    Ouch, cknail groaned as he picked himself up. He then spat to one side. His mouth was full of dust. It tasted like hed tried to chew rocks.


    The hobgoblin looked around. There were severalrge dust clouds hanging low close to the ground but they were already beginning to blow away. Loose rocks were strewn about everywhere, but cknail saw no immediate threats, so he took a second to check his body for injuries. He had quite a few new tender areas, but nothing seemed broken. It would take more than a mere rockslide to defeat cknail!


    With his checkup done, cknail went looking for the alpha wolf. The creature had definitely been hit by the rockslide and it had already been wounded. This was far too good of a chance to pass off. The wolf was probably already dead, but if it wasnt, cknail was going to finish it off. This was his territory and no mutant was going to get away with attacking him!


    The pile of rocks covering his target wasnt that far away, so cknail headed over towards it. He smacked the side of his head a few times to get the rocks out of his ears as he walked. He had no idea how they had gotten in there.


    The fallen body of the giant boar was off to one side. It looked even bigger from up close, but it also looked very dead. Large bleeding gashes had been torn in it sides and it was breathlessly still. Since it wasnt a concern, unless he got hungry, cknail turned away from the boar and focused on the wolf up ahead.


    As cknail walked, he drew his sword. The alpha wolf had been hit by a wave of rock so it was probably long dead, but cknail wasnt about to underestimate a mutant. They could be freakishly tough. He might have to stick it a few time to finish it off. He hoped he would; that sounded like fun.


    Im going to make me a wolf fur nket and a maybe a pretty tooth ne too, the hobgoblin bragged as he smiled confidently.


    The hobgoblin approached the buried alpha wolf, and kicked a stone away. He couldnt see much of the wolf beneath the rock, only a few patches of fur. Suddenly, the entire mound shuddered and began to rise. Rocks fell away to reveal the back of a huge furry shape. cknail took a step back. He didnt like where this was going.


    The creature then turned and looked at the hobgoblin. It was without a doubt the alpha wolf, and it looked mad. Its yellow eyes were narrowed hatefully at cknail. A few bits stripes of blood decorated its fur but it didnt seem all that wounded. As the hobgoblin watched, the creatures fur seemed to darken and go t. The sudden change made it obvious the wolfs fur had been weirdly fluffy and shiny a moment ago.


    The wolf shook itself to remove some of the dust and dirt that covered its body, and then it snarled menacingly. Its lips rose up to reveal the many sharp teeth in its maw as the menacing sound reached cknails ears.


    Cheater, cknail remarked resentfully. He then reached into a padded pocket in his shirt and pulled out a thick ss vial. It was hisst vial of Elixir. He hurriedly popped the cork and downed the pink contents. He had a feeling he was going to need it. The alpha had obviously used some sort of weird power to protect itself.


    The wolf was still fairly dirty and it shook itself again. cknail didnt waste the opportunity. A hot sh of energy went through his body as he burned Elixir and lunged forward. His sword whirred around into a downward sh that was aimed right at his opponents neck.


    cknail moved with incredible speed, but the wolf didnt even try to dodge. Instead, it held its ground and growled. The fur all along its body instantly puffed out and grew shinier. It almost looked like crystalline spikes.


    The sword hit the fur and was violently repelled. The force of the blow recoiled up cknails arm. The sword vibrated in his hand for an instant and then it shattered. Bits of metal flew away as the de was snapped in half.


    Not good, cknail hissed at he stared at his nowpletely destroyed weapon. This wasnt going the way he had nned. He hated magic.


    A momentter, the wolfs fur softened and went t again, and it lunged at the hobgoblin. Its jaws opened wide to reveal jagged yellow teeth, ck gums, and a long slimy tongue. cknail immediately threw himself out of the way. The mutants teeth snapped shut on the empty air where his head had been a brief moment ago, and a drop of warm drool sshed against his neck.


    As panic caused his heart to speed up, cknail threw his broken sword down and drew a long dagger. He was just in time, the wolf attacked again. It came in low to snap at his feet, but cknail managed to twist to the side and sh at the creatures head. The power of the Elixir was already seeping into his body and lightening his movements, and this time his de cut through the fur and drew blood. However, the ncing blow only left a shallow scratch.


    Bothbatants stepped back and eyed each other. cknail knew he was in danger but trying to flee never even urred to him. He was face to face with another predator. Backing down would only put him at a disadvantage. He had to win no matter what the cost.


    The potent energy from the Elixir was rushing through cknails body. It threw his mind into overdrive. His first attack had beenpletely ineffective, but the second had worked. It seemed like the beasts fur was only tough when it was shiny. The wolf also moved slower then, so it transformed its hair only as ast ditch defense. cknail could use that, somehow.


    The wolf let out a deep growl as it began to circle around the hobgoblin. Its every step brought it slightly closer, and cknail had to continue turning to keep his eyes locked on it. Before he got dizzy, cknail snarled and shed at the wolf. It was only a feint, but the beast jumped back out of the way.


    Sensing an opportunity, cknail drew another dagger and whipped it at the mutants head. The knife spun as it whirred through the air, and then it sailed right over the wolfs head and hit a tree. The de didnt even sink into the wood; it bounced off into a nearby bush.


    Ya, I never really learned how to do that right, cknail muttered to himself in disappointment. It had looked really cool when he saw bandits do it, though.


    The throw wasnt aplete waste. The startled wolf ducked low and its fur went spiky again for second, but then it realized the hobgoblin had missed, and it growled at him again. cknail growled back and raised his dagger menacingly. He was feeling confident. The Elixir was flowing through his body and strengthening it. He felt no pain or weariness. So what if the wolf was a mutant? He was cknail, the greatest hobgoblin warrior in the history of ever! He had no equal.


    cknail lunged forward to attack again. He shed at his opponents eyes. The wolf tried to twist around the attack and get at cknail, but the hobgoblin was ready. He reversed the direction of his sh and drove the beast off.


    The wolfs yellow eyes focused on cknail as it hunched down, and an instantter the wolf leapt up. It jumped straight for the hobgoblins chest. cknail grinned in bloody anticipation as he aimed his dagger at the creatures exposed throat, but then its fur rose up again and hardened.


    At thest moment, the hobgoblin was forced to throw himself down. He rolled across the ground and away from the wolf. Unfortunately, the mutantnded and spun around before he could get back up. With a victorious growl, it charged. cknail raised an arm to shield his head, and the wolfs jaws closed down on it. Teeth sank through his heavy leather coat and into his arm.


    Bloody gods and piss everywhere, cknail gasped as the pain hit him.


    Instead of flinching though, he channeled his pain into anger. With lightening-like speed he stabbed at one of the wolfs eyes with the dagger in his other hand. His mind wasnt muddled by fear or pain, but focused by them instead. The here and now was all that mattered. He had to win.


    The daggers tip headed right for the wolfs iris, and the wolf reacted immediately. Instead of letting go, it dropped its weight and pulled cknail off bnce. The hobgoblin stumbled and clenched his jaw as the beasts teeth dug deeper into his flesh. cknails attack missed, but he didnt waste any time. He growled as he shed at the wolfs eyes again.


    This time, the beast twisted around and let go of his arm. The action caught cknail by surprise. He was thrown violently to the side and flew through the air until he hit the ground and started rolling. Disorientated, his body knocked aside loose rocks. He reached with his hands and tried to grab something, but then a solid object smashed into the back of his head. There was a loud crack. cknails head jerked forward and his neck twisted. For a moment, everything seemed fine. It was just another minor wound. The fight was still going on, and he couldnt back down. cknail growled as he tried to stand up, but then his body suddenly went limp. As he fell, his vision went ck.


    cknail was sinking into cold nothingness. Like chains, the darkness held him down. It was so cold that even thinking was hard. What was going on? Who was he?


    A ring of stones rose up into sight. The darkness rippled away from them like ck water. Crude symbols decorated the weathered grey monoliths. Their lines and whirls were hypnotic even though they held no meaning to cknail. He remembered seeing something like them once


    Then there was light. At first it was a pin prick, but it grew until a zing sun hung overhead. A giant appeared in the light. The ze behind it obscured its features, but it was looking down at cknail. The hobgoblin could feel it studying him with unseen eyes that pierced everything. He felt eptance instead of judgment, but that didnt matter to him. He didnt care what anyone else thought. Actions were what mattered.


    Suddenly, one of the stones began to topple. As it fell, it hit the next one in line, and that stone began to fall. Soon the entire ring would copse. All themotion energized cknail. He began to struggle against the cold waters dragging him down. He couldnt afford to stay here. He had ns! He had no idea what those ns were, but he remembered having them!


    The giant noticed the iling. It reached down with one dark hand and grabbed cknail. There was a sucking sound as it dragged him out of the cold water. Then, just as the third stone was beginning to fall, the giant took the hobgoblin and wedged him beneath the stone so that it stopped falling. cknail felt a heavy weight push down on him. He couldnt see his own body but he felt it shift and deform under the pressure ever so slightly. There was a popping sound, and he opened his eyes.


    cknail was lying on his back. Fragmented shes of some sort of vision or dream ran through his mind. Had he fallen unconscious for a second? There was a rock poking painfully into his side, and a huge mutant wolf jumping at his face. Normally that would mean he had but a few scant moments to live, but everything seemed to be moving very slowly, like he was underwater. The wolf hung suspended in the air. cknail could clearly see its grey fur, yellow teeth, and long ws.


    The hobgoblin knew his body was too battered and bruised to react properly. He wouldnt be able to avoid the wolfs attack in time. Death seemed certain, but cknail wasnt about to give up. Purpose filled him. Vengeance still smoldered within his heart, but it was more than that. He would live! He would conquer! If his body wasnt up to the task then he would simply find another way.


    Time continued to pass, even if it was at a slower rate. The wolf was closer now. Soon it wouldnd atop cknail and its jaws would close down on his neck. The Elixir was still coursing through the hobgoblins body. cknail could feel its energy empowering every fiber of his being. With no other option, he drew on every bit of it he could gather up. It burned within him with nowhere to go.


    The energy was too much. His muscles couldnt burn it nearly fast enough. The pressure built up and began to rip the hobgoblin apart from the inside. Just when cknail was sure he was about to burst, the energy found an escape. The power surged into cknails head and then exploded outward. There was a path for it there that had only ever seen a trickle, but now it was being flooded.


    Invisible energy struck towards the wolf and ripped into it. Time sped back up.


    Birds exploded out of all the nearby trees and flew up into the sky. The wolf yelped in surprise and began to writhe in midair. Instead ofnding on cknail, it hit the ground next to him on an awkward angle. There was loud thud as its back mmed into the ground. Its fur was standing up so straight that it looked sharp in ces.


    cknail was already moving. He threw himself atop the writhing wolf without any care for his own safety. Rage drove him. This ce was his, and he was the strongest!


    A w scraped against cknails chest but he twisted around it so he could get in closer. The wolf seemed to recover from whatever had confused it. It tried to push away from the hobgoblin and get back on its feet, but its thick fur slowed it down and restricted its movements.


    As thest remnants of Elixir burned up within him, cknail grabbed a tuff of fur on the wolfs neck, pulled himself over, and then stabbed at the creatures closest eye with the dagger in his hand. There was no oddly tough fur there. The de sank into the fleshy orb, and then cknail twisted the de in deeper. Blood poured out of the wound, and the wolf yelped.


    The beasts hind legs hit cknail hips and knocked him aside. He lost his grip on his weapon, and hended off to one side of the wolf. The furious hobgoblin immediately tried to get back up, but his muscles suddenly gave out on him. He stumbled before managing to get back on his feet.


    Meanwhile, the wolf iled about. It seemed to try to scratch the sky for several seconds, but then it let out a deep wheezing breath and flopped down onto its side. cknail drew another dagger from within his coat and stared at the beast for several long seconds, but ity still.


    Ha, now youre dead. Stupid mutt, the hobgoblin eximed viciously.


    He then spat a mixture of blood and mucus to the side and copsed into a sitting position on the ground. He was really tired all of a sudden. It had been a long day.

 It Echoes Onward 9

    It Echoes Onward 9


    The sound of his own deep breathing filled cknails ears as he sat among the loose rocks from thendslide. The corpse of the huge boary behind him and in front of him was the fallen body of the mutant wolf. The bloody beast was finally dead. cknail had killed it.


    Not that the oue had ever been in question. Sure, the monster had been tough, but cknail was a master ranger and swordsman. He could beat anything.


    Now, cknail was taking a quick break. The energy from the fight and the Elixir were starting to wear off. Pain was beginning to re up as cknail lost the numbness caused by his rage, and he had more than a few injuries. The wolf had gotten in several good blows and had bitten cknails arm quite hard. The hobgoblin had also fallen down a hill and hit the back of his head against a rock so hard he lost consciousness. He was probably going to need to stitch himself up.


    It was a good thing hed managed to stun the wolf with that thingy Wait, had he just used Elixir to do some sort of special magic?


    Im magic! cknail remarked in excitement as he perked up. Ow, the sudden motion had hurt his neck.


    All Vessels were technically magic users. Thats why they had increased strength and speed, but real magic was shier than that. What was the point unless you could do something impressive like breath fire?


    Now Im the greatest magic hobgoblin warrior ever! cknail announced proudly to the empty air. And Im the leader.


    What exactly had he done, though? The wolf had seemed to spasm and panic. The hobgoblin hadnt shot fire out of his eyes or zapped it with magic death beams, but whatever he had done had also scared the nearby birds in flight. Scared. Was that it? Had he simply used magic to terrify the wolf into running away?


    That sort of sucked. He wanted to shoot fire out of his eyes. Well, at least he was alive and could brag about having real magic. He might even be able to use it to finally get Khita to leave him alone.


    Hmm, maybe his power wasnt so bad, even if it wasnt fancy looking. There were probably a lot of great and terrible things he could aplish with such a power, like jumping out at people to scare them silly. He couldnt wait to see the faces of some of his human minions!


    Oh, wait, cknail suddenly muttered to himself. He had a problem. He was out of Elixir now. He had used his entirest vial to fight the wolf, and cknail had no idea where to find more. He couldnt ask Mahedium.


    The sun overhead was heating up cknails clothes, so he got up and shuffled under a nearby tree. Once there, he pulled off his torn clothes and took out some supplies. His wounds needed looking after. cknail gritted his teeth as he applied stinging ointment to himself and sowed up the deeper cuts. When that was done, he took a seat on arge root that jutted out from the bottom of the tree, leaned back, and closed his eyes. He needed a quick break.


    No strange dreams overcame him as he rested in the cool shade. The birds resumed their chirping and a breeze blew through the trees. The tired hobgoblin nodded off.


    Time passed. A shuffling sound intruded into cknails sleepy mind. Hezily opened one eye and looked around for the source. There was movement a few feet away, over where hed dropped his bag. Someone was going through it. Was that Scamp? cknail stared at the hobgoblin. It was Scamp!


    As cknail watched, Scamp finished rummaging through the bag. The other hobgoblin pulled a knife out of the sack and then causally ambled over towards cknail. He was still holding the knife up, as if he had ns to use it.


    What are you doing here? cknail hissed angrily as he opened his eyes. He wasnt sure what Scamp was nning, and because he was a hobgoblin he was untrustworthy.


    Oh, youre awake, Scamp remarked in surprise as he hid the knife he was holding behind his back.


    Answer the question.


    You were making a lot of noise. Rocks go boom and stuff. We could hear you at base, so Gob made mee here and check it out. Ive been hunting a lottely. Sometimes Gob doesnt let me back inside the camp unless I bring meat back with me. Hes mean.


    And why were going through my bag?


    Um, in case there was something dangerous in there? Scamp replied uncertainly. You never know.


    cknail rolled his eyes. He may be injured and tired, but he could still beat up Scamp without any real problems. The only reason he didnt was because he wanted someone to carry his gear. Scamp couldnt do that with a broken limb or two.


    Give me my dagger back, cknail said as he climbed to his feet and held out his hand.


    Scamp smiled sheepishly and did as he was told. As cknail was tucking the de away, three goblins approached the hobgoblins. They were from the camp and had clearlye with Scamp.


    Come look, little beasts! the leader of the group announced excitedly as he threw his hands up above his head.


    Neither cknail nor Scamp had any idea what he was talking about, so they followed the energetic goblin over to the base of the hill. There were rocks everywhere now, but cknail recognized the spot that the boars had been protecting. Another goblin was standing just outside of the small fissure there. cknail pushed the others aside and peered inside. He immediately spotted what the goblin had been talking about.


    There were nine small piglets tucked away in the back of the hole. They were all piled on top of each other for warmth and their little pink snouts stuck out from the mass of their brown striped fur.


    Im taking these, cknail announced as he reached in and pulled one of the critters out. The little thing squinted up at the hobgoblin and then let out an unimpressed grunt.


    Why? Scamp asked.


    They look tasty and since they arent dead yet they will stay fresh for a while.


    Youre the boss.


    Yep, thats me, cknail agreed as he put the piglet back with the others.


    There was no point sticking around. cknail had recovered somewhat from his fight with the wolf. Whatever Elixir had been left in his system had all been used up to help him heal. He was in far from perfect shape but he wasnt about to copse either. His wounds remained but they were no longer bleeding or limiting his movements.


    At cknailsmand, goblins rounded up the piglets and the corpse of the alpha wolf. They hung therge carcass from a long pole so that four goblins could all carry it together. It was very heavy but there was no way cknail was going to leave his trophy behind. He nned on shoving it in everyones faces. They all had to know how great he was. This meant that they had to leave a lot of good meat behind, but since they were only a short journey from camp, cknail nned on sending some of his minions back to grab themter.


    The groups journey back to the goblins camp took a while because they were burdened by their cargo. cknail led the way  because he was the leader - and he didnt set a fast pace. The constant stops were for safety and not because he was tired or weak in any way. Anyone who suggested that would have instantly regretted making such a nderous insinuation.


    Thest stop cknail made was right at the edge of the forest that bordered the clearing which contained the goblin base. The sight of his camp surprised him. It had changed a lot while its glorious leader had been away.


    The most obvious difference was the wall. Except for the gap that served as the entrance, the wallpletely blocked the way into the base. The tall barrier of wooden stakes looked crude, but it was still imposing. Dangerous animals would have a much tougher time attacking the goblin camp now, which was good because cknail had to live there, and hed dealt with enough of those for now.


    It looked like Gob had managed to keep everyone busy while cknail had been gone. Past the wall, two more longhouses were being built among the hills. That meant the base would soon have four of the long wooden structures. There were also some smaller constructions that cknail didnt recognize, and the entire camp was a hive of activity. Goblins were running around everywhere.


    There were even four goblins standing outside the break in the wall. cknail couldnt tell if they were on guard or just hanging around there. They had spears, but they seemed to be zoning out or talking amongst themselves, because none of them had spotted the approaching group of goblins and hobgoblins yet. Suddenly, two of the goblins turned on each other and began fighting. They hissed furiously as they wrestled across the ground. cknail made a mental note to make sure he posted a hobgoblin or human on watch duty in the future if there was any real looming threat.


    The goblins on watch were so focused on fighting or watching the fighters in their midst that they didnt see cknails party they were right in front of them.


    Get out of the way, you stupid runts. Im the leader! cknail hissed back as he walked over. The fighting goblins were blocking the entrance.


    The goblins immediately sprang into action. The two fighters separated and all the goblins lined up to stand at attention. It was way toote for them to look even remotelypetent. Scamp chuckled at them but shut up when cknail threw him a re. As if he was any better.


    After entering the camp, cknail ordered the goblins carrying his trophy to deposit over by therder. He then dismissed Scamp and headed over to his cave. The idea of taking another nap on hisfy sleeping roll sounded really nice.


    However, on the way there he noticed something odd. cknail studied a group of seven goblins that were hanging out in the shade under a rock. The little green critters were wearing crude clothing made from small tanned hides that had been sewed together. Two of them had stone axes and three of them were sipping water from y cups, or at least cknail assumed it was water. Looking around, cknail spotted several other groups just like it. That was a lot of goblins, way more than he had seen before. Since entering the camp he must have seen over two hundred goblins, and very few of them looked like new arrivals. Most of them had tools and clothes.


    cknail was thinking this over when he arrived at the entrance to his cave. He immediately noticed that Gob was waiting for him there. The hobgoblin lieutenant looked much the same, although he was now wearing a human shirt and ripped human pants. The sword cknail had given him was hanging at his side, which reminded cknail that he had to rece his own broken de.


    I rejoice at your return, great one. I saw the corpse of the wolf youid low. Your warrior might is beyond belief! Gob eximed happily when cknail got close.


    Ya, Im amazing. I want to sleep now, though. You canpliment meter.


    Youre hurt! Was it the wolf? Gob remarked in surprise after studying cknail for a second.


    Im fine! I just need some rest.


    Yes, boss! If you desire anything then just say so. I will do it.


    Well, you seem to be doing a good job. Keep it up, cknail told him. Gob was one of his most useful minions.


    Whenever I have a problem I just ask myself what a great leader such as you would do!


    That sounds like the best thing you could do. Youre very smart to have figured that out yourself, cknail told him. Did anything important happen while I was gone?


    The four new hobgoblins woke up and five more goblins fell asleep. You should probably meet them, Gob answered.


    Five new goblins were transforming? That was more than cknail had expected so soon. His n only called for around a dozen. At this rate he was going to end up with far more than he could easily control.


    That is important, but so is napping. Theyve waited a few days already so they can wait one more, cknail remarked thoughtfully. Also, I was wondering about all these goblins. Why are there so many new ones around?


    Gob shrugged before replying. They just showed up after the wall was built. Every night theye in from the forest. I made sure to put them to work, as I thought you would wish.


    Lazy good for nothings, cknail hissed.


    The goblins must have realized how much safer it was inside the wall and were taking advantage of all the hard work he had put into making it! He hadnt built it so every little green pest in the forest could rx inside at his expense. There wasnt anything he could do about it now, though.


    I will make sure all the goblins work hard to serve you, chief! Gob replied enthusiastically. cknail hadnt actually been asking him to do anything, but whatever.


    Khita isnt around, is she?


    No, the loud human female went to Shelter when you left.


    Okay, good, cknail replied before yawning. He didnt want the pest interrupting his sleep.


    Since there wasnt anything else pressing to talk about, cknail shooed Gob away and pushed aside the hide covering the entrance to his cave. He then entered and went to sleep on his bed. With the soft cloth beneath him, he was unconscious as soon as he had closed his eyes.


    Sunlight was streaming in through the cave entrance when cknail woke up the next morning. He yawned and stretched as he opened his eyes and looked around. His wounds felt much better. They had scabbed over and were a little stiff but they didnt hurt at all.


    The sound of quiet breathing drew cknails attention. He instinctively focused on it and looked for the source, in case it was prey. It wasnt; it was Khita. She was sleeping in her bed on the other side of the cave. cknail stared at her in iprehension for several long seconds, before throwing his nkets aside and walking over to her. She was supposed to be at Shelter! There was no way she could have travelled to the goblin camp over night.


    Wake up! cknail growled as he shook her shoulder.


    Oh, cknail youre finally awake, Khita told him as she sat up and blinked the sleep from her eyes.


    What are you doing here? I was told you were at Shelter.


    I came as soon as I heard you were back. Its been so boring here without you. Youre the only person here who isnt an idiot or a coward, but when I got here you just slept for two whole days.


    cknail groaned. It wasnt the next morning at all! He had wasted so much time.


    The hobgoblin quickly left Khita behind and ran out of the cave to find Gob. He had things to do. His n was already in motion and wouldnt wait for him. Once he had found Gob, cknail had his minion take him to see the new hobgoblins. They had been receiving some training from Gob but only cknail could do it right. They wouldnt properly fear him unless he was the one beating them.


    None of the new hobgoblin looked or smelled familiar to cknail. They hadnt stood out as goblins. All four of them were dressed the same and wearing loincloths. Gob had probably ordered them to make the clothing themselves. Despite the simrity in their dress though, they were easy to tell apart.


    The first two hobgoblins were very simr to each other. They both had longnky builds and short fuzzy hair on the top of their heads. One had brown hair while the other had grey hair, though. They eyed cknail with suspicion as they studied their chieftain with fresh eyes. The pair could probably be trained to obey, though.


    The third hobgoblin was a bit shorter and still had some meat on his bones. He also had a small pot belly and was bald like cknail. The hobgoblins pudgy form was unusual since the hobgoblin transformation normally consumed all of a goblins fat. He must have been quiterge before his transformation. His expression was guarded but not unfriendly. He seemed to have some measure of self-control already, which cknail approved of.


    Thest new hobgoblin was also a little short but his body was thin instead of fat. He had thick ck hair that was long enough it got in his eyes. There was a creepily excited grin on his face as he returned cknails stare. He didnt know what to make of it. Was this another goblin with a weird obsession, like Ferrar?


    cknail then looked down at the hobgoblins body. He froze in surprise. Were those breasts? They were. This hobgoblin had a pair of small but noticeable breasts. Understanding dawned on cknail as he stared at the naked tits for an ufortably long time. This hobgoblin was a female!

 It Echoes Onward 10

    It Echoes Onward 10


    It took a few seconds for cknails brain to start working again. During that time he continued to stare at the female hobgoblin in front of him. She was standing in line with the other three new hobgoblins.


    Ah, I see, cknail mused to himself to fill the awkward silence. He had been nning on acting tough in front of the new recruits, but he had been thrown off track.


    Why was this such a surprise anyway? It wasnt like cknail hadnt considered the idea of female hobgoblins before. He had. It was just that hed grown used to all of the new hobgoblins being male. Why now had one finally appeared now? There were as many female goblins as there were male ones.


    So, youre a female, he told her.


    Yes, I am, she replied. The female hobgoblins eyes shone with excitement as she stared directly at cknail. Her intensity was a little unnerving.


    Good... cknail mused aloud. He knew he sounded stupid, but he couldnt help himself. Why are you a hobgoblin?


    Dont know. I just follow you around everywhere and watch you all the time, and eventually I became like you, she answered him.


    Huh, I dont remember you cknail replied uncertainly.


    No reason a great one such as you should. I was small and unworthy. I stayed back. I avoided other goblins that would distract me.


    Ah, that makes sense, cknail told her while he forced a smile. That didnt make sense. He was getting a weird vibe from this female.


    The hobgoblin chieftain coughed and took a step back so he could see all the new hobgoblins. He shouldnt focus on just one of them.


    Im going to give you all names now, he told them.


    We have names already, one of the twonky hobgoblins remarked as he looked at the other.


    You do? Goblins dont usually give themselves names, cknail replied. He was more than a little surprised.


    Normally, cknail only named hobgoblins because no one else did. If they wanted to name themselves that was fine with him. Coming up with good names that everyone had to use forever was sort of annoying anyway. It was too bad he couldnt just name them all Gob. That was a great name for a hobgoblin.


    No, we gave each other names, the secondnky hobgoblin exined. I call him Twig Arms.


    And I call him Bone Face the other added with a smile.


    Were they being serious? cknail scowled at both of them. Why would they insult themselves? This had better not be a joke at his expense, or they were going to get it.


    His look didnt go unnoticed. Bone Face quickly spoke up to exin. We fight and insult each other a lot.


    Well, those names are still too annoying to say. Youre Bones and Twig now, cknail told them before turning to the third hobgoblin.


    Do you have a name? he asked him.


    No.


    Then now youre Rolly, because youre almost as fat as a human, cknail told him.


    Sure, the chubby hobgoblin replied as he shrugged. He didnt seem to care all that much.


    What about me? Youre giving me a name, right? It will be a connection between us, forever, the female goblin asked.


    Er, how about you name yourself? cknail suggested. He didnt know what to call her. His mind kept going back to Tits, but he didnt think that would work well.


    You should name me, she insisted.


    Since he apparently didnt have a choice, cknail racked his mind for a name that wasnt Tits.


    I think Ill have to name youter. Its hard, he told her. He wasnting up with anything. The weird way she was staring at him wasnt helping him think either.


    Because its so important to you?


    Sure.


    This made her smile fiercely enough that cknail grew ufortable again. He looked away and addressed the entire group. He ordered them to remain loyal to him and exined that he would be taking over their swordsmanship training.


    and if you disobey then I will make your skulls into cups, cknail said as he finished up his motivational speech. It had been one of his better ones. Any questions?


    The other hobgoblins wisely remained silent, except for the female.


    Wanna sex? she asked him.


    Er right now? cknail replied uncertainly. Her sudden question had caught him off guard.


    Yep.


    Im busy. Maybeter, cknail told her.


    He had a feeling that he shouldntmit to anything. It could end badly. He needed to think things over first. Her weird behavior made him more than a little suspicious. She might simply be nning on getting close to him so she could kill him and take his ce as leader. Also, she reminded cknail of Khita. That was a huge turn off.


    With his speechplete, the hobgoblin chieftain then made a break for it. He wanted to get some advice so he went to find Gob. He was the only hobgoblin cknail could trust, and they came from very different backgrounds. Maybe he would have some wisdom to share.


    What do you think of the new hobgoblins, cknail asked when he found Gob over by his longhouse.


    They will serve you or die, Gob replied seriously


    Well, of course, but one of them stands out, dont you think?


    True, it''s weird how he is still fat. Is he going to get even bigger if he eats? Gob replied thoughtfully.


    No, the female! cknail hissed. Why is she the only female to transform?


    I dont know. I havent thought much about it, because you havent ordered me to.


    Fine, what do you think about her, as a female? cknail asked him. This was obviously one of those times he had to be very specific with Gob.


    Umm, she looks a little thin, because she just transformed, but she will probably thicken up and be attractive after a while. Gob replied uncertainly.


    Do you have any advice for dealing with her?


    Well, she is a hobgoblin, so try not to get killed?


    It was obvious that Gob wasnt an expert on female hobgoblins, and that he really wasnt understanding what cknail was trying to get at. He had been hoping Gob would have knowledge to share since he hade from a wild tribe that had been ruled by a hobgoblin. With a disappointed sigh, cknail headed off towards his cave.


    Was he just over thinking things? Gob seemed fine with her. Maybe some form of human stupidity had rubbed off on him. Their mating rituals were weird andplex. Females and sex had never bothered cknail before. He had mated with quite a few female goblins in his life, but he had mostly lost interest in them over the past year.


    Was he attracted to the female hobgoblin? He wasnt sure. She was a lot more human-like than a goblin. That was both a turn on and a turn off. In particr, memories of his experiences with one human in Daggerpoint kept popping into his head, Luphera. Thinking about her always set cknail on-edge. Actually, it had been after Luphera had ambushed him that he had started to lose interest in female goblins No, that was just a coincidence. There was no way he found humans attractive, not even the ones with big breasts like Luphera. Er


    Was it toote to leave this vige and find a new one?


    La, cknail hummed loudly to himself as he headed for his cave. He was trying to drown out his own obnoxious thoughts. It was even sort of working.


    What are you doing? Khita asked from where she was standing outside the cave. Thats some of the worst singing Ive ever heard. Barking dogs sound better when theyre in heat.


    Her voice made cknail stop and look up. Khita wasnt someone he would usually go to for advice but maybe she might have an idea about naming the female goblin. She was technically a female as well.


    Shut up and listen, the hobgoblin told her before exining his problem to her. He left anything even remotely connected to sex, though. He didnt want to confuse her simple brain.


    Oh, there are female hobgoblins? I cant wait to meet her! Khita replied as she grinned and looked around. There were no female hobgoblins in sight so she turned back to cknail.


    Of course there are, you idiot, he told her.


    Ah, I was beginning to wonder since all of you were male, but then I thought it might just be because of you,


    Because of me?


    Ya, I was thinking maybe hobgoblin women were avoiding you.


    This statement earned her an annoyed re from cknail. Why would anyone avoid him? Female goblins had thrown themselves at him. He was both strong and incredibly handsome. His nose had a perfect pointy tip.


    Stick to the name, stupid. What should I call her? he told Khita.


    I dont know. A lot of women are named after flowers, especially ones from romantic ys, not that Ive ever watched anything dumb like a y. I um spend all my time fighting and shit.


    Since he had no idea what she was on about, cknail ignored theter part of what Khita had said. It didnt sound important anyway.


    Hmm, flowers cknail mused to himself as he began walking away from Khita. She called after him but he ignored it. He was done talking to her.


    Saeter had taught cknail the names of quite a few flowers, like Goats Beard or Stinging Creeper. Stinging Creeper sounded like a good fit for the female hobgoblin. Hmm, it wouldnt hurt to get more input first, though. Geralhd might be worth talking to.


    With the mutant wolf dead and his pack scattered, cknail was probably safe making the journey to Shelter by himself. It would take a while for other creatures to move into the wolfs old territory. However, cknail didnt feel like walking all the way there. He had just gotten back and his feet sort of hurt.


    Maybe he would just take a stroll around the camp instead. He still hadnt seen everything that had changed, and it wouldnt be a bad idea to check in on Imp and Ferrar. Who knew what they had gotten up to?


    They didnt disappoint him. After crossing the camp, cknail found Ferrar over by the y firing pits. The little goblin wasnt alone. Imp was right beside him, and they were both studying a furnace.


    The sight of the huge oven surprised cknail. It was a long structure with an entrance at the front and a chimney at the back that was taller than him. It wasnt made from just y either. The walls and roof had been reinforced with countless bricks. The roof even looked to have been made from a brick arch.


    What in the deepest Green is this for? cknail asked as he walked over.


    Making bricks, Imp replied.


    But you already have bricks and you needed them to make this, cknail pointed out.


    We used a smaller kiln to make the bricks for this so we could make even more bricks, Imp exined.


    Looking around, cknail saw the other kilns. There was the small one Ferrar had created first. It looked like one big lump of y the size of a goblin. Beside that, there was also another kiln that was about three times asrge as the first. It was bee hive shaped and it looked like it had been created using crude bricks that had been stered with y. Three tall pots could be seen cooling down inside of it.


    Why do we need to make so many bricks? cknail asked.


    To burn more interesting things! Ferrar replied cheerfully.


    So we can build important things, like even bigger kilns, Imp added.


    cknail sighed. Why do you want a bigger kiln?


    Magic! Imp exined as he raised both his arms dramatically. I need better tools. I need to tame the mes. Crystals must have steady heat to grow.


    That was probably the best answer cknail was going to get. He had no idea what Imp got up to when he was doing his magic stuff. It wasnt like cknail couldnt see a few ways to use the bricks himself. He was just surprised Imp and Ferrar had gone to such lengths. They had obviously worked hard on this since cknail had left, and that thankfully meant that they had been too busy to get into trouble.


    Alright, whatever, cknail told his minions before turning and starting to walk away.


    Now that hed met with all the hobgoblins, cknail decided to see what had happened to the body of the fallen wolf. Hed brought it back with him to camp, but he hadnt seen it since. He wanted to keep its hide as trophy and its teeth would also make an interesting ne. Anyone that saw cknail wearing that would instantly know how big of a deal he was.


    What was left of the mutants corpse was hanging up on the drying rack. Someone had skinned the beast and hung the hide up to dry.


    cknail walked over to the wolfs pelt and gave it a sniff. He smelled brains. It seemed like it was being prepared correctly, but it wasnt done yet. It would be a few more days until it had dried out. Out of curiosity, cknail ran a hand across the grey fur that covered one side of the hide. The hairs prickled his skin and pushed back against him. They were much tougher and springier than normal hair, even if they werent as hard as when the wolf had used them to defend itself. Still, the hide was probably strong enough to make a useful cloak that would turn a blow or two.


    cknails thoughts were suddenly interrupted by someone yelling Hello, boss!


    He turned around to see Scamp headed his way.


    What are you doing here? cknail asked. Scamp usually skulked around so that no one could find him and force him to work.


    Gob ordered me to tan all these hides. I catch most the big beasts, and thats a lot of work, but he still gets mad if I let any of their skins rot, Scamp replied. He sounded annoyed about it.


    Good for him, cknail huffed. It sounded like Gob was doing an excellent job.


    It isnt fair! Why do I need to do everything?


    What happened to the rest of the wolf? cknail asked. He didnt feel the need to respond to Scamps sniveling.


    The meat smelled funny and went bad right away. The bones are in the cold cave there, and Imp took the crystal thing that was in its skull, Scamp answered.


    What crystal?


    The mutants horn, it was a magic stone that went into its head. Imp took it.


    Huh, cknail remarked to himself. He would have to talk to Imp about thatter. What about the little piggies? I remember iming those. No one ate them yet, did they?


    No one would dare, boss. The piggies are all in a cage.


    Good. Have you been feeding them? I want them nice and fat! Pig meat is so juicy. I cant wait!


    Theyve been getting food scraps, Scamp answered.


    There were things that goblins wouldnt eat? cknail couldnt picture that. Who exactly has been looking after them?


    Khita was doing it but she stopped. The piggies dont mind goblins, but every time she tried to pet them they squealed and bit at her. They really dont like her much.


    Im keeping them, forever, cknail eximed gleefully. He had finally found the means to keep the annoying redhead away. All he had to do was train the pigs to follow him around and then they would chase her away every time she bothered him.


    Um, boss. Are you going to talk to Gob about getting someone else to tan the hides? Scamp asked tentatively.


    Sure, no problem, cknail replied.


    Really?


    Ya, all you have to do is find another hobgoblin and get them to take your ce. Feel free to beat them up until they agree.


    Oh, Scamp eximed disappointment. He didnt sound too optimistic about his chances. cknail wasnt either.


    Now get back to work, cknail told him before starting to walk away.


    All the distractions had been nice, but now it was time for him to train the new hobgoblins. That meant he had to decide on a name for the female hobgoblin. He couldnt put it off anymore.


    Screw all this thinking. It was annoying. He was just going to go with the first thing on his mind. There was no point getting worked up over the name of a hobgoblin just because she was female.


    After crossing the camp, cknail met up with the new hobgoblins at the training ground. They were waiting for him with training des in their hands. cknail appraised them and gave the female a particrly long look before approaching them.


    Their features and attitude hadnt changed but the female was now wearing one of Khitas shirts. The redhead must have tracked her down and given it to her. That or she had stolen it. No, that couldnt have happened. She wouldnt have dared steal anything from cknails cave.


    cknail stopped in front of the female goblin and studied her for a second before speaking up. Your name is Herah.


    She had already been smiling as she stared at cknail, but the grin on the female hobgoblins face widened considerably as she listened.


    What does it mean? she asked eagerly.


    cknail snorted. Names didnt have to mean anything. He made most them up on the spot, and most the humans had nonsense for names. Although in this case he had chosen hers for a reason.


    Its based on the name of someone I used to know. She was angry all the time and killed lots of people before she died.


    Wow! I love it so much, the hobgoblin eximed breathlessly. Her eyes were practically shinning with joy.


    cknail was sure that Herad would have approved of her name inspiring that of a hobgoblin. The bandit chieftain had always been very hobgoblin-like herself: ruthless, cunning, and quick. cknail was unsure about her opinion on cheese, though.


    Now listen you rats. If you think Gob was hard on you then you were wrong! Im going to really train you, cknail announced as he stepped back and addressed all the hobgoblins.


    A grin appeared on cknails lips as he picked up a training de and held it up. He would probably feel better about Herah after he had beaten her up a few times. That was how hed grown to ept the presence of all the other hobgoblins.

 Interlude: No Favorites Among Men

    Interlude: No Favorites Among Men


    The tter of dice filled the room as the small cubes hit the wooden table and rolled across it. It was a quiet noise but the previously rowdy tavern had suddenly gone silent a moment before. A dozen eyes watched withplete focus as the two dice finally came to stop.


    Its demons eyes. You rolled a two, and that means you lose, a rough looking man observed in carefully neutral tone.


    That was the signal for everyone else in the tavern to let their breath out and start moving again. The room suddenly filled up with background noise. The watchers sat back and began talking to themselves as the barmaid wandered away with a tray full of dirty dishes.


    Shit, I was so close! Everything was falling into ce, Elyias swore in disappointment. I just needed another good roll to finish off the straight set.


    The young man was standing at one end up the table and he punched its wooden surface in anger. The impact shook the table only slightly. It hadnt been a strong blow.


    Well, thats definitely the end of your little lucky streak. You just lost everything you had won and then some, a portly man in the fine clothes of a merchant told him.


    You win some and you lose some. The gods have no favorites among men. The fates they weave suit them; not the likes of us, another manughed. He sitting on a chair and leaning back with his boots resting on the table, and he grinned cheekily when Elyias threw him a sour look.


    Bah, I will get a lucky break eventually. My bad fortune cantst forever, Elyias muttered to himself.


    His remark just caused the man that looked like a merchant to chuckle. He then scooped up the pile of coins Elyias had ced on the counter earlier. It wasnt a small heap. Several of the coins glinted with the sheen of gold. Elyias had just lost a fair bit of money.


    I wish you nothing but good luck with that, unless of course you decide toe back here and bet with me again, and then Ill dly take more of your coin, the merchant replied happily.


    I think Ill find another den to ce my wagers at. I dont think ce is good luck for me, Elyias said as he stepped away from the table.


    Suit yourself,d. Personally, I dont think youre going to be finding luck like that anywhere, the seated man told him.


    Elyias just frowned to himself and headed for the door. He didnt see the point in staying here, since he had no more coins on hand. Hed spent them on drinks and lost them gambling.


    I was so bloody damn close this time, he muttered to himself as he pushed the tavern door open and stepped outside.


    Outside, the cloudy sky overhead was growing dark. It waste in the afternoon and well after supper. Elyias looked up at the sky as he walked back to the inn he was staying at. The clouds were gray and heavy looking. There was a good chance it would rain.


    After eating supper Elyias had gone out to find a new gambling spot. That was what he had done every night since arriving in town. After parting with cknail, he had headed East until hed found a fair sized town. The walled settlements that were left in the North were hardly thriving but it was easy enough to find a ce to sleep as well as a good ce to y some games of chance. Having a lot of gold helped.


    Elyias had quickly sold one of therger chunks of gold that cknail had given him. That had given him more than enough to spend several days in luxury. The best wine and women in town had been his. Tonight he didnt feel like celebrating much, though. He just wanted to get to bed early. Tomorrow was a new day, which would wipe his te clean.


    It probably wasnt a great idea to keep spending so much money in one ce. It would attract attention. However, Elyias wasnt ready to leave town just yet. Travelling was a pain, and wanted to win some money back here first. He couldnt leave without getting one good lucky break at dice or cards. That would leave a bad taste in his mouth. Leaving on a high note was important.


    There wasnt very many people in sight as Elyias made his to the inn. Those people he did pass kept walking without doing more than ncing in his direction. It was gettingte so people wanted off the streets. Elyias passed a single guardsman with a truncheon who was leaning up against a wall, but the uniformed man barely nced his way. He didnt seem to be paying much attention to his surroundings. The guards in towns like these were usuallyzy and corrupt.


    A minuteter, the guardsman was behind Elyias and out of sight, and the entrance to the inn he was staying aty before him. As he walked, a group of three men exited an alley and headed his way. The men were dressed asmonborers and werent suspicious in any real way, but Elyias was suddenly nervous.


    Every since he had escaped that crazy hobgoblin that had entrapped him he should have been feeling ecstatic. He was finally free and he had more money than ever before! However, a lingering sense of dread had remained within him. Instead of fading it had grown steadily stronger over time. Elyias had tried taking a hot bath and scrubbing himself clean but that hadnt helped. Gettingpletely smashed on hard liquor had also proven to be but a temporary reprieve, with foul consequences of its own.


    Under no circumstances was Elyias nning to do the things ckail had told him to. He was quite happy to spend the gold he had in peace. Getting in touch with Werricks men or any other bandits sounded dangerous and stupid. No, he would just head East away from the cursed hobgoblin. If cknail ever did manage to track him down  unlikely - then Elyias was sure he coulde up with a good excuse, like that the gold had been stolen before he could show anyone.


    Oh, pardon me, one of the three passingborers said as he looked up and gave Elyias a friendly grin.


    No problem, thank you, Elyias replied as the group of three men stepped to the side and walked past him.


    A sigh of relief escaped Elyias lips. It had really been foolish of him to worry about some random people on the street. Once he was safely at the inn he would order a nice cup of wine and hit the sack.


    That was when someone grabbed the back of Elyias shirt and pulled him backward. Elyias yelped, went stiff with surprise, and then froze in terror as he felt something thin and cold press itself against his neck. It was knife.


    Actually I just remembered that we have some business with you, someone said as Elyais was pulled off the street and into another alley.


    Once there, he was spun around and confronted by the threeborers. They grinned maliciously at him.


    What do you want? Elyias gasped.


    Youve been shing a lot of coin aroundtely, neer, one of the men replied.


    You can have it! Elyias hurriedly told his assants. I dont have much on me but I have some more in my room at the inn.


    Oh, we know. Weve already gone and taken a look around that room of yours, one of the men chuckled as he held up a familiar looking sac.


    Elyiass hopes fell. That was the bag where kept all the raw gold he had been given. He had nothing else of value.


    Then what do you want from me?


    Its not often you quality find rocks like this around here, and you dont seem like a miner to me. We want to know where you got it. Information like that could be very lucrative.


    Several different responses shed through Elyias mind. He quickly chose the one that gave his assants the least reason to kill him and leave his body in the alley to rot.


    I found it in a cave! Theres lots more gold there, and I can take you to it!


    Huh, that is indeed promising. Personally, that doesnt sound like something Id be interested in going out to find  Im a city man, myself  but Im sure we can find someone who would be interested.


    Ya, Derials band is in town. This sounds like something they could profit from. Theyve done a fair bit of raiding for Werrick.


    Elyias chocked down a sob. It seemed like he was heading back to Shelter after all. Why was his luck always so terrible?

 Out of Darkness 1

    Out of Darkness 1


    A strong wind was blowing in from the North. The thick greenery of the forest kept most of its force away from the earth but the wind that did reach the ground was cold and dry, and it made a lot of noise as it blew through the treetops overhead. The loud rustling of leaves filled the forest. It almost sounded like the whispers of the seashore. Beneath the sound of the wind, the next loudest noise was the p of footsteps on the forest floor. A hunting party was heading home.


    The hunters numbered eight. They moved through the greenery with both confident ease and respectful caution. The savage dangers of the Green didnt scare them, since most of them had been born and raised in the forest. They were all hobgoblins. Their green skin, sharp features, and long pointy ears made this obvious even if they were wearing a mix of savage looking fur and scavenged human garments. Two of the hunters were carrying a deer between them.


    A human observer would have been startled by the sight and probably terrified as well. Hobgoblins simply didnt form up into groups thisrge. They were notoriously violent and anti-social. It had been hundreds of years since any human had encountered anything like this hunting party. A single lone hobgoblin was dangerous enough, and it would take a fearsome and powerful leader to bind so many of them together. Even the forest seemed unsure of what to make of them. The calls of animals seemed unusually subdued and wary. There was an expectant feel to the air.


    As the hobgoblins stalked forward, the leader nced over his shoulder at his followers. His eyes quickly nced over each individual as if he was judging them. Unexpectedly, he suddenly came to halt as he saw something that disturbed him.


    Wait, where did Bones go? cknail asked his minions. In response, all the other hobgoblins threw each other surprised and befuddled looks for a few moments before one of them eventually spoke up.


    Oh, there was a cliff back there. I pushed him off it, Twig exined helpfully. He was standing at the back of the pack.


    Again? Stop doing that! Its annoying and were supposed to working together, cknail hissed angrily as he red at the other hobgoblin.


    I had to get him back. He did it to me earlier today, Twig whined. He was looking down at the ground as if he knew he had done something wrong.


    Just stop! If you hurt a tribemate during a mission again I will throw you off a cliff, headfirst onto jagged rocks while you are tied up. You will not survive!


    Right. Sorry, boss Twig muttered sullenly.


    Do you want to go back for him? another hobgoblin asked.


    No, he can catch up. Im sure he is fine, cknail replied as he started walking again.


    Twig and Bones were constantly fighting and ying tricks on each other. As unlikely as it seemed, neither of them had been seriously harmed yet. Even the incident with the pot full of poisonous snakes had failed to do anysting harm.


    However, it had been made very clear to both the hobgoblins that if one of them actually did manage to kill or maim the other then he would be severely punished. cknail didnt want to condone violence between hobgoblins. He was the only one allowed to kill anyone. Everyone else had to ask permission first.


    By the time the party reached the camp, Bones had caught up with them. He seemed no worse for wear except for some dirt on his clothes and some twigs stuck in his hair. All together, the hunting party exited the forest with their prize. The goblins that were guarding the break in the wall quickly got out of their way. Beyond the wall was the goblin encampment. There were now sixpleted longhouses and various other smaller huts and tents. A plethora of tanned animal hides served as roofs, doors, and decorations. Now that there were several trained hobgoblin hunters in the camp lots ofrger animals were being brought in.


    The expedition that cknail had just led had mostly been to help train several of the new hobgoblins that had only recently transformed. The extra food was nice but it was just a bonus. cknail had ns, ns that required hobgoblin minions that could hold their own in a fight, so he could murder people.


    cknail looked over the hobgoblins behind him. Most of them looked vicious and savage in their scavenged clothes. As they scanned the forest and each other , their eyes were focused in a way that humans werent. Their gazes glimmered with hunger and focused cunning. They seemed to be living in the moment in a way most humans couldnt.


    There was no doubt that hobgoblins were dangerous, but they also had serious weaknesses. Their main problem was their size. Hobgoblins were usually shorter and thinner than humans. This meant they were at a disadvantage in a head to head fight. Then there was their age. All the hobgoblins under cknailsmand couldnt hope to match the experience and skill of human fighters. They had only begun to learn how to use a sword. cknails hobgoblins would be destroyed in anything like a fair fight.


    However, this fact didnt stop a vicious grin from appearing on cknails lips. Hobgoblins didnt fight fair, and for every weakness they had they possessed two strengths. Hunting and stalking came naturally to them. They were also fast, agile, andpletely without mercy. That was why cknail was focusing on teaching them how to fight in the forest and use bows. Proper use of instinct and cunning would allow his hobgoblins to defeat any clumsy humans they encountered, and they were learning fast. cknail would soon have his two dozen skirmishers. If only dozens of other problems werent constantly popping up to distract him.


    As they reached the drying racks one of the new hobgoblins turned towards cknail and asked a question. Do humans really taste that bad?


    Yes, they do, cknail answered as he motioned for the hobgoblins carrying the deer to put it down by the racks. So you cant eat them, even if they are enemies, unless its an emergency.


    This was a question he got quite frequently from the new hobgoblins.


    Hmm, but what exactly do they taste like? the hobgoblin enquired.


    Humans sort of taste like squirrel meat that has been out in the sun for a few days, cknail told him.


    The young hobgoblin made a disgusted face and cknail nodded in agreement. Humans did taste pretty bad, but cknail wanted to make sure none of the new hobgoblins did any experimenting on their own. That might ruin his ns.


    Hey, boss, Rolly announced as he stepped out of the cave that served as the campsrder. I will take that deer and make sure it gets chopped up properly.


    Alright, cknail replied.


    Rolly had somehow ended up in charge of therder and the drying rack. cknail wasnt entirely sure how that had happened, but he was too busy to question it. The chubby hobgoblin seemed to be doing an alright job anyway. He had put on a few more pounds, but the amount of food being stolen had actually gone down.


    There were a lot of things that needed cknails attention so he turned and started to walk away, but Rolly stopped him.


    Ah, boss, I need to talk to you about something, The pot bellied hobgoblin said.


    What? cknail asked sourly. This already sounded like it was going to be more work for him. He hated working.


    Were getting short on food. The goblins are bringing in less and more of them keep showing up. We need more food.


    Just round up some goblins and send them out to forage, cknail replied as he gestured vaguely in the direction of the trees.


    Im doing that. Its not enough. We have too many goblins and the forest around the camp is being stripped clean, Rolly exined.


    cknail sighed. He hadnt nned on gathering so many goblins. They had begun showing up on their own after the wall had beenpleted. He didnt want so many of the pesky runts but if he chased them away they would juste back. Maybe he could round a whole bunch of them up and ughter them? No, that would ruin morale


    Fine, leave it to me. Ill solve it somehow, cknail muttered as he turned to leave again. Sometimes being the leader was a pain. It was his minions fault. They werent smart enough to solve their own problems so cknail had to do it for them. He really needed to find some smarter minions.


    After grabbing something to eat, cknail still hadnt found an answer to the food shortage, so he decided to ask a human for advice. They usually had a solution to most problems, if only because they caused so many. Since Khita was the only human nearby he went to find her.


    The young redhead was over at the field that was used as a training ground. Several hobgoblins were watching as Khita showed them a sword technique. Khita wasnt a great swordsman but she had solid basics and that was more than the hobgoblins knew. There was also no one else more skilled avable.


    Have any of them tried to kill you yet? cknail asked as he walked up to Khita. It was only a matter of time until someone got fed up with her.


    No, but Ive been keeping my eyes open, Khita replied cheerfully. A few of them have been ncing at me out of the corner of their eye when they think Im not paying attention.


    You should probably beat one up as an example.


    Ive been considering it. These hobgoblin arent so different from the street scum that used to run in my old gang. Once they know who the boss is they will behave.


    Thats me; Im the boss, cknail reminded her sternly. No one must ever be allowed to forget that.


    But Im one of your most trusted lieutenants! Khita told him.


    No, youre not, cknail replied as he stuck out his tongue at her.


    However, Khita had already turned away and gave no sign of having heard him. She was watching her students with her chest puffed up proudly. cknail sighed and decided to get to the point. It was annoying just being around Khita.


    I have a question. What did you use to do when you ran out of food? he asked her after making sure she was paying attention.


    Steal something and then sell it, Khita automatically replied.


    That wasnt a terrible idea in general, but it didnt really help him right now. There werent many people he could steal from. Even Shelter was low on food, and there was no one to sell to either.


    Thats a dumb idea. You humans have thousands of people in your cities; how do you feed them all?


    Farming, I guess?


    Thats that thing were you dig in the ground a lot? cknail asked skeptically. He liked mud as much as the next hobgoblin but he didnt see how all that digging would be useful.


    Pretty much. You nt seeds and harvest the ntster, Khita exined.


    Ah, I see. Goblins could do that but it would take a while and it is probably moreplicated than it sounds, cknail mused. Everything humans did was unnecessarilyplicated.


    Probably, I dont know anything. Mucking about in the dirt is for country bumpkins like the vigers at Shelter.


    Thats it. They have fields outside Shelter! Ill convince them to take in some more goblins and use them for farming. Goblins can dig and nt things!


    They still wont produce food anytime soon, Khita remarked doubtfully.


    Yes, but while they are there I wont have to feed them, cknail replied smugly.


    Well, if youre going back there I want to go with you. Im done here and Ive got some things to do at the vige.


    Whatever, cknail replied.


    I need to grab some gear. Give me a minute, Khita said. She then dismissed the hobgoblins that she had been teaching and started walking toward the cave she shared with cknail.


    Most of her hobgoblin students immediately began leaving, but one of them stayed behind. It was Herah, and as Khita turned her back she threw cknail a meaningful look and gestured toward one of the other hobgoblins that was leaving. It was one of thetest batch, who cknail had named Lumpy. He was a very average looking hobgoblin, except for the bump on his nose that gave him his name.


    After studying Lumpy for a moment, cknail turned back to Herah and gave her an affirmative nod. He then headed over to his cave via a circuitous route that led him around the other side of a lodge and away from everyone else. Once out of sight, cknail stopped walking and began to jog. He dropped his head down and surveyed his surroundings as he stalked forward at a quicker pace. There were a few goblins by the side of the lodge but they ignored him.


    Soon cknail had circled around and gotten ahead of Khita. From the shadows at the base of a rocky outcropping he studied the nearby hills and buildings. There was practically no one around this part of the camp. Everyone tended to avoid it since it was so close to cknails cave and he was sometimes cranky in the mornings, so when cknail detected movement atop one of the hills he zeroed in on it.


    It was Lumpy. The hobgoblin was peering over the edge of the hill as if he was waiting for someone, and there was arge rock in his hands. cknail found that to be highly suspicious.


    In a few short moments Khita would be directly beside the hill. She was very predictable and almost always followed the same paths when she moved to different parts of the base. Lumpy had undoubtedly noticed this and taken advantage of it. He was nning on throwing the rock from out of sight and then running away. His scent would be hard to distinguish among all the other goblins and there were ways to hide it. If it hit, a stone that size would cave in Khitas skull.


    Ever so slowly, Lumpy raised the rock he was holding up above his head. He was preparing to strike. cknail dashed forward. He zoomed across the open ground and a series of quick leaps carried him up the hill. The noise drew Lumpys attention. He began to turn. Before he realized what was happening, cknail had grabbed the back of his shirt and stabbed him. His knife slid up under the other hobgoblins ribs and into his soft internal organs.


    Youre too stupid and ugly to live, cknail told the dying hobgoblin. Lumpys n had not only been treacherous but also ill-conceived. There was no way cknail wouldnt have been able to trace it back to him. There was no room in the tribe for a stupid hobgoblin with poor self-control. Also, cknail had never liked the hobgoblins face. He was better off dead.


    Lumpy gasped but cknail just sneered and threw him off of the hill. His body bounced as it hit all the rocks on the way down, and it left a trail of blood on the rocks beforeing to a stop in front of a very surprised Khita.


    What? What in all the hells did he do? Khita asked when she looked up and saw cknail perched above her.


    He was going to kill you, you idiot, cknail hissed. Killing always made him angry and excited.


    Oh, Khita eximed in surprise. She looked stunned for a moment.


    Well, you didnt need to kill him! I could have handled it myself, she added defensively a secondter. It seemed like she had recovered her wits, even if they werent very good wits.


    Just go get your stuff, cknail told her dismissively. Im leaving without you if you take too long.


    After a moment of hesitation, Khita did as she had been asked. The young redhead pulled her gaze away from the dead hobgoblin and began jogging over to the cave. cknail watched her go until he heard a soft whish of movement from behind himself. Unsurprised, he turned to see Herah standing there.


    See, I told you earlier that stupid Lumpy was going to try and hurt the human, she announced as she leaned in close to cknail. The female hobgoblin was grinning in her usual overexcited way, and cknail had to fight the urge to take a step back from her.


    You did, cknail replied neutrally. He had been very suspicious when she had first approached him.


    Herah was hard to read and even harder to predict. cknail had no idea what was going on behind her creepy smile. If anyone was going to try and kill someone he had thought it would be her.


    Im surprised youre so concerned about Khita, he told Herah as he studied her face. He had noticed the female hobgoblin staring at Khita with a sour expression on her face more than once. It was little wonder that she had noticed that Lumpy was going to try something.


    If she dies who else would I learn all about you from? We talk a lot. Also, she is one of my glorious boss possessions. Of course I would protect her, Herah exined as she continued to grin.


    Shes um not really mine cknail muttered in reply. She just kind of hangs around, like a swarm of mosquitoes.


    But I did good, yes?


    You did. No one is allowed to kill anyone else without my permission, cknail replied as he met her eyes and stared into them.


    After a few more minutes of awkward conversation cknail dismissed Herah. He still had no idea what he was going to do with her, but she didnt seem like an immediate threat. He was tempted to give in to her advances, it had been a while and she wasnt bad looking, but he couldnt shake the feeling that she was dangerous. Letting another hobgoblin get so close might end badly for him. Her teeth were rather sharp


    Also, cknail was fairly certain that she had goaded Lumpy into making the attempt on Khitas life, and that she had set him up to fail. She was definitely dangerous.

 Out of Darkness 2

    Out of Darkness 2


    cknail was walking through the forest. He had left the goblin settlement behind him and was headed to Shelter. There were things he had to talk to the humans about and he wanted to get some distance from the other hobgoblins. He had mostly gotten used to having them around but they still made him a little uneasy. It was nice to get away and rx sometimes. When he had firste up with the idea to create a small group of hobgoblin minions to help keep his human ones in line hed failed to realize howplicated dealing with them would be. He had just nned on killing a few as an example. Herah alone caused him quite a bit of anxiety.


    As he followed the thin dirt trail, cknail ducked under a leafy branch and jumped over a muddy puddle. He was almost to the vige now. Suddenly, the hobgoblin noticed something out of the corner of his eye. There was a track in the mud, and it belonged to a wolf. Suspiciously, cknail leaned over and brushed aside a few nearby nt leaves as he scanned the ground for any more signs. However, after sniffing the ground and only detecting one unique scent he decided that there was only one wolf nearby. It was probably a survivor from the pack of the mutant he had in in glorious battle. The track was fresh but a single wolf wasnt much of a threat  cknail had easily defeated the Alpha after all - so he continued on his way. He wanted to reach Shelter before too long.


    A few more minutes passed. cknail was just about to reach the edge of the forest when he heard a noise from off in the distance. The hobgoblin looked around but didnt see anything. Had another hobgoblin followed him? If they had then they were going to get smacked aside the head.


    cknail still didnt see anyone so he listened carefully. It sounded like someone was talking off in the forest, so he stepped off the path and headed over to find the source. If there was something going on he wanted to know about it. Hunters sometimes left Shelter but the hobgoblin never had a problem detecting and avoiding them.


    Carefully, cknail peeked out from behind a tree. He quickly spotted the source of the noise. It was one of the human children from the vige, the unimportant young male with brown hair. Aris was his name. He was leaning against a tall tree with rough bark and there was a frustrated scowl on his face.


    cknails first instinct was to sneak up, knock him over the head, and see if he had any items worth iming, but that was beneath him now. He was a great leader! If he wanted something he just ordered his minions to hand it over. His second instinct was to leave the human alone, but there was a wolf around. Bringing the stupid human back with him seemed like a good way to earn some good will. The hobgoblin pulled his hood up and wrapped his scarf around his face. His frighteningly handsome face and green skin were nowpletely concealed.


    She didnt have to turn me down so quickly, Aris muttered to himself before kicking a rock into a clump of bushes. Stupid girls. Why am I always the one left out?


    cknail took the opportunity to step out from behind the tree and call out to the human. You shouldnt be out here by yourself. Something might decide you look tasty.


    The hobgoblins voice startled the young man. He jumped and spun around to see who had spoken. His eyes went wide with fear when he spotted cknail but then he calmed down as he realized who the hooded figure had to be.


    Ah, how much of that did you hear? Aris asked cknail tentatively. His cheeks had turned more than a little red from embarrassment.


    Um, less than all of it but more than nothing, cknail remarked as he stepped closer and scratched the side of his head through his hood. What kind of dumb human question was that?


    Anyway, youre not the boss of me, so you cant tell me what to do, Aris replied surly.


    Im the boss everyone I say I am, and I can tell you what to do because youre dumber than me. If you had any smarts at all then you wouldnt be out here alone. Its dangerous for a useless person like you.


    Its not that dangerous and Im not useless.


    Saying that just proves how useless you are. The Green is always dangerous. That was the first thing my master taught me, that and how to braid twine. I spent a lot of time making rope


    This part of the forest is as safe as it gets. Thats all I meant. Youre the neer here. Ive lived here my entire life, asshole, Aris huffed in reply.


    So you know there are hungry wolves about? I just found some fresh tracks, but if you think its safe you can stay here, youngling, cknail countered. If the annoying little human wanted to die then cknail wasnt going to go out of his way to save him.


    I, um


    Just follow me. I will take you back to Shelter, cknail told him as he stopped in front of the young man and motioned in the direction of the vige. The sooner he got this young idiot back to the vige the less he would have to listen to his drivel.


    Fine, but how much of what I said earlier did you hear?


    You were whining about girls, cknail replied without interest as he turned and started walking again. Aris winced and reddened again at cknails blunt response but he didnt deny it.


    Its just that Joan hasnt had any time to do anything with me for the past while. Shes always busy doing some stupid pottery stuff or getting up to the gods know what with Khita, the young man exined.


    I didnt ask.


    Ive barely seen her for days. We grew up together and Khita is just a neer, a total stranger! Aris continued as if cknail hadnt said anything.


    Why do you people keep telling me these things? cknail asked. He seriously wanted to know. He had no interest in the minutia of human existence but they kept telling him about it.


    I guess you just seem like a good listener. Youre veryidback and quiet. You also seem to always know what you are doing.


    cknail sighed to himself in resignation before responding. If Aris was going to keep asking these questions then he might as well give his honest opinion. Do you have a real question?


    I was just wondering if you have any advice on girls.


    After thinking about the question for a few moments cknail voiced his thoughts on the matter. They are trouble. You need to watch them carefully so that they cant stab you in the back.


    Ya, I think I see what you mean. Joan really shouldnt be ditching me like this, Aris replied with obvious frustration. The pair then walked in silence for a few brief moments. cknail didnt think Aris had really understood what hed meant.


    So umcknail, Id like to go with you, the young man asked after a few all too brief seconds.


    Probably, getting back to the vige will be much safer with me.


    No, I mean when you leave the Shelter.


    You want to go to my camp?


    No, when you leave the vige for good! I want to apany you and your friends when you go South. I know you will be leaving eventually.


    Sure.


    Really?


    Ya, I could always use another human minion.


    Why did you just mention the fact that Im human?


    Because you are?


    I guess thats true but youre still weird. Also, youre not supposed to agree with me. Youre supposed to tell me to stay in the vige and do as the elders tell me.


    Why would I do that? Will the elders kill either of us if we disobey them?


    Um, no. They will probably just scold me and give me chores.


    Then what they want doesnt matter. You should do whatever helps me the most. cknail would kill people who disobeyed him.


    Youre very honest.


    Always. I was taught that lying to people you dont intend to kill is a bad idea. It makes you look bad, cknail exined as he nodded sagely. The other trick was lying in such a way that you never got caught. cknail was an expert at that.


    When they reached the vige gate cknail parted with the Aris and went to find Tannin. As he was walking through the vige, he spotted a goblin sitting on a barrel. It was right out in the open and appeared to simply be resting as it leisurely looked around. An older vige woman passed it by and didnt give it a second nce. It seemed like the goblins had already beenpletely epted by the vigers. That was good. It would make talking to Tannin much easier.


    It only took cknail a few minutes to find Tannin. The vige elder was talking to some men in the vige center. cknail waited for them to leave before approaching. Much to cknails surprise, it didnt take much effort to convince Tannin to try using the goblins as farmborers. Tannin seemed impressed by what the goblins had managed so far.


    You know, thats a clever idea you got there. Ive been trying to figure out how to get some of the old workednds productive again, Tannin exined enthusiastically. The fact that year after year the fields have been getting smaller has been weighing down on me like a fat sow. We just havent had the manpower we need to keep the forest back.


    Goblins can definitely help you there. Being forced to do simple repetitive things is their specialty. They can also dig well.


    Thebor is nice but its the increased safety that really intrigues me. Tannin exined. We cant afford to lose any vigers to the dangers of the forest, but if we use goblins to do most the dangerous work


    Exactly, theyre also great that way. There are always more goblins! cknail agreed.


    Yes, I think this is a great idea with lots of potential, Tannin replied as he nodded along happily. Thank you for suggesting it; it sounds so crazy that I would have nevere up with it myself. However, the goblins you got us have proven so useful as pest control already. There hasnt been a single loss of stores since they settled in. Some people are even teaching them tricks.


    Goblins can do a lot. They even use them to clean sewers in some ces. I know a lot about that.


    I thought you said your master was the one who started training goblins.


    He was, but Im from the South and Ive seen them work there.


    Oh, where exactly do you hail from?


    cknail stiffened. He had been telling the truth. He really dide from a city in the South. He had spent most of his life there, but he had no idea what it was called. Names hadnt mattered much to him back then.


    Southmantown? he suggested.


    Ive never heard of it, Tannin replied dryly.


    Well, they have big sewers there and they use goblins to clean them. They keep the rats out. Rats are tasty if youre a goblin, which Im not.


    Er.. right, Tannin replied uncertainly. There was an awkward silence as cknail and him stared at each other for a few moments.


    Hey, cknail! There you are, someone suddenly yelled from off to one side. The hobgoblin turned to see Geralhd and another banditing down the street towards him. Looking closer, cknail realized that the second man was Beardy, he had simply trimmed his beard so that it was much smaller now.


    We need to talk to you, Geralhd announced as he walked over.


    Ill just leave you fellows alone then. I got business of my own I need to get to, Tannin remarked before nodding politely and wandering off.


    That left cknail alone until the other two bandits got to him. He considered running off for a second, but swiftly discarded that idea. He had a good idea of what Geralhd wanted, and it wouldnt be problem. cknails n was already in motion.


    Hello, friends, cknail said as he waved at the neers.


    Its about time you showed up, Beardy growled. Weve been waiting around here forever.


    Ive been busy. Surviving in the Green is hard. You need to do a lot of difficult hunting and stuff, cknail replied as he shrugged indifferently.


    Still, it was beginning to look like you were avoiding us, Geralhd told him. Weve been wanting to talk to you, but when you do enter the vige you always slip away without contacting me or any of the others.


    You could just ask Khita.


    Were not going to have a serious conversation by passing messages through that maniac. Every new dawn that sees her still alive is a minor marvel, Beardymented as he glowered.


    This is serious, is it? cknail asked innocently. This caused Beardys frown to deepen, but that had been the point. It was fun to needle him.


    Its serious enough. Youre our bands ranger and an important part of our group. We need to be able to reach you, Geralhd told him.


    Im the leader, so thats very true. Now what do you want, my faithful minions?


    Geralhd rubbed his forehead and looked down for a second. Beardy just grunted in annoyance. Their reactions continued to amuse the hobgoblin. He had to stifle a smile. Humans could be so predictable. They always thought they were smarter than him. A momentter, Beardy threw Geralhd a meaningful look that seemed to say that the other man should do the talking.


    Weve been here in this little backwater vige long enough. Its time to leave. Weve managed to repair our gear and gather supplies so there is no reason to stick around any longer, Geralhd said.


    Exactly. Its time to hit the road, Beardy interjected.


    Right now? cknail asked with fake confusion.


    No, in a day or two. We just need to make sure youre ready to guide us and lead us.


    And dont tell anyone about this. We n on slipping away at the crack of dawn when the vige is asleep. They might get upset if they find out, and there is no reason to upset them, Beardy added.


    Alright, if thats what you want. Im tired of this ce as well. I want to go somewhere with a better selection of cheese, and Im sick of staying out in the forest where I have to hunt. Ugh, camping is so much work, cknail told them as he scowled in distaste and kicked the ground for extra effect.


    He was fine with the bandits n. They had said exactly what he thought they were going to say and he had already ounted for their actions. The third phase  or was it the fourth? - of cknails ingenious n would probably kick in before the date of departure, and if not then cknail could just stall them. It wasnt like they could go anywhere without him. It might be amusing to fake an injury or something


    Im d you agree with our unworthy idea, wise leader, Beardy remarked as he rolled his eyes. cknail suspected he was being sarcastic.


    Hmm, its nice to finally have a n in ce, Geralhd said as he smiled cheerfully. I was afraid I was never going to feel the sweet taste of fine wine on the tip of my tongue ever again.


    Yes, it is nice to have a n. You can aplish anything, and kill anyone, if you have a good n, no matter how long it takes, cknail replied as he pulled down his scarf and gave the bandits a vicious smile that revealed all his teeth. He couldnt help but gloat a little. He had been bottling in his feelings for so long. He wanted to kill!


    This statement didnt appear to please either of the bandits. Geralhd grinned back uncertainly and Beardys face went carefully neutral. He seemed to be thinking something over.


    cknail, what is it that you actually want? I just realized that I dont know? Geralhd asked a secondter.


    I just want to help you! the hobgoblin answered as he spread his hands out in a friendly manner. His humans just didnt know what they really needed. It was lucky for them that their leader did.


    That is incredibly unlikely, Beardy muttered to himself sourly.


    Suddenly, there was bout of yelling from the direction of the vige gate. It was swiftly followed by the sound of a horn. The long bellow echoed out over the roofs of the vige, and immediately drew everyones attention. They all turned to look toward the gate.


    What was that? Geralhd asked.


    Since neither of hispanions knew, the trio quickly decided to head for the gate and find out. No one blew a horn like that for no reason. Before they got to their destination they encountered Tannin. He was huddled with a dozen other men from the vige. They all looked uneasy and upset.


    Whats going on? Geralhd asked them as they jogged over.


    That was our warning horn. There is arge group of armed men crossing the field, and they look about as friendly as a troll with an arrow up its ass, Tannin cursed. His face was uncharacteristically pale and there was a fearful tremor to his voice.


    Oh, hey! The enemy was early. cknail stepped behind Beardy and did a little happy dance. Elyias must have done a good job. That man deserved a reward. cknail hoped he was still alive.

 Out of Darkness 3

    Out of Darkness 3


    The long bellowing sound of the warning horn rang out over the vige of Shelter. Its unusual cadence seemed to vibrate in peoples bones and put them on edge. Geralhd, Beardy, and cknail followed Tannin and the other vigers over to the town gate. Everyone was talking to each other as they strode purposely forward. The air was thick with tension and everyone looked fearful and nervous. cknail was at the very back and there was a cheerful spring in his step as he skipped along after the humans. This was going to be great fun!


    Ive already called up the town militia, Tannin was exining to Geralhd. Id like you to arm your own men and join us. The stronger and steadier we look the less likely this situation is to fall to bloodshed.


    What? We cant trust them! another viger protested. He was a middle-aged man with a balding head. Theyre probably the reason these outsiders are here. It cant be a coincidence that we get one group of intruders right after the other.


    Could they be after you? When you first came here, you did mention that you were looking to escape from some enemies that you had made, Tannin asked as he turned to face Geralhd.


    Its highly bloody unlikely, Geralhd quickly responded in an offended tone. We had rivals we were avoiding but the timing for this makes no sense. They have no reason to search the Green for a full month in the slim hope of catching us! They would gain absolutely nothing from that, and our trail is beyond cold and dead. How could they possibly know where we are?


    As he frowned thoughtfully, Tannin considered this answer. After a moment, he nodded and turned back to the man who had spoken. I have to agree with Geralhd. Theyve been here too long for this to be someone looking for their tracks. That means that this isnt directly rted to them, so we need to trust our guests for now. Were all in this mess together.


    Well know who the neers are soon enough, I guess. I have a feeling we''re not going to like it, though, the balding man replied as he stared off toward the gate.


    I fear youre right, Tannin agreed. He sounded apprehensive. While they were talking, Gerahld sent Beardy off to gather up the remaining members of their band.


    Nothing more of much importance was said until they reached the gates. When they got there, Tannin climbed up thedder that led to the watch tform, as the others peered through the gaps in the log walls. cknail jumped up and pulled his head over the wall so he could see. His disy of agility got him a few looks but everyone had more important things to worry about than him.


    Damnation, there are a lot of the bastards, Tannin cursed as he studied the approaching group. cknail agreed with him.


    Across the field, the hobgoblin could see arge mob of humans. They definitely looked like bandits to cknail, and he was an expert. They were wearing dirty, rough clothing and they were armed to the teeth. cknail could see a plethora of weapons such as swords and axes. However, most telling of all, they were walking with an arrogant swagger that promised violence at the drop of a hat. cknail knew it well.


    Ya, these ruffians look like trouble, Geralhdmented to no one in particr.


    cknail began counting, but then got frustrated and stopped. They kept moving around, but he figured there were just over a hundred intruders. That was more than cknail had been nning on dealing with. Stupid Elyias couldnt do anything right. Hmmm, this was a bit of a problem. He would have to make sure the vige didnt get damaged too much. It was full of resources he wanted under his control. Still, the enemy were just humans. They had no idea what was waiting for them out here in the Green. This was cknails territory.


    As the people at the gate were talking among themselves and trying toe up with a n, more vigers began to arrive. Those that werent already armed were quickly handed weapons such as axes or improvised spears. Soon, there were dozens of them, and they were joined by Beardy and the other bandits. Even Khita was there. All of them were armed and Beardy led them right over to Geralhd. Their swords, leather armor, and confident posture made them easily distinguishable from the vigers.


    Huh, its been a while since we were all together like this, Beardymented as he looked cknails way.


    Lets hope its not thest, another bandit replied.


    Dont be such a downer, Khita said as she punched the man in the shoulder. After all weve been through this will be easy, like picking the pocket of a drunken housewife.


    Stealing is bad. Dont be a thief! cknail interjected as he threw Khita a disgusted scowl.


    Is cknail aware of what bandits do? We were all bandits, Beardy asked Geralhd as he leaned his way.


    Now is not the time, Geralhd answered. Lets focus on the situation at hand, please. We need to figure out what we should be doing.


    I thought that would be obvious. I have no problem with helping these folk negotiate from a position of strength, but the second things get dicey we should leave. Im not dying to defend this hole in the mud.


    And where would we go, exactly? Thest time I checked, we were still out here in the middle of nowhere.


    cknails with us now. We can leave at any time, Beardy replied matter-of-factly.


    Shelter has been good to us. I dont want to leave these people to die, an uncertain sounding bandit added.


    This immediately caused all the bandits to start arguing among themselves. Khita was uncharacteristically silent. She seemed unsure of herself and torn. cknail just snorted and looked away. It didnt matter what any of the humans said. Everything was going as he had nned. He hadnt left them any choice but to do what he wanted.


    Quiet, all of you. This isnt useful, Geralhd eventually told them all. We obviously dont know enough right now. We will see what these people want before we make any ns.


    There was some grumbling in response, but no one spoke up against Geralhd directly, so he nodded to himself and then walked over to talk to Tannin. cknail followed him. They joined the vige chief just in time. Most of the new arrivals came to a stop before they got to close to the gate of the vige, but one man detached himself from the crowd and approached alone. cknail peered through a gap in the wall to get a good look at him.


    Hail, the settlement! Ivee to parley! the man yelled. He was a tall man with ck hair and a grizzled appearance that screamed bandit.


    We hear you. Who are you, stranger? Tannin yelled back.


    Greetings, goodmen. My name is Orvit. Im the leader of the scavenger crew you see before you.


    Scavengers? I know thieves and marauders when I see them. What does someone like you want out here? Youre a long way from anything worth scavenging.


    Ill be blunt. Wevee for the gold. Tell us where it is and then no one will get hurt.


    We dont have any bloody gold here, stranger. Youre confused.


    Dont lie to me, old man. Ive seen the nuggets myself, and this is right where it is supposed to be.


    There was silence from Tannin for a few moments. He looked confused and he took a while to think before replying. Give me a minute. I need to discuss this with some others.


    Fine, but were not going anywhere until we get the location of that gold mine. We will storm your pathetic little vige if we have to. Dont think we wont!


    Tannin immediately called over a pair of vigers and Geralhd. Does anyone here have any idea what these idiots are talking about? They mentioned a gold mine.


    If any of my band knew where a gold mine was we would have left ages ago and be living it up in a city somewhere, Geralhd told him.


    Wait, maybe thats why the others left Beardy guessed.


    You think they found gold and decided they didnt want to share it?


    Maybe, and then they ran into these bastards.


    I told you these outsiders were the cause of all this trouble! the angry viger from before interjected.


    That doesnt matter right now, Tannin told the man in calm soothing voice. Even if there is gold around these parts, none of us know where it is, so we cant exactly give it to anyone.


    These scavengers arent going to like that, Geralhd pointed out.


    Which means this is most likely going to end in violence, Beardy remarked dryly.


    Not necessarily. If we present a strong front we could still scare them away. All men are afraid of dying, Tannin told them.


    Youre underestimating the siren call of gold to people like them. If they dont dare attack us directly then they will simply try something else. They wont just leave, Geralhd replied.


    It would be bothersome if they just sit outside our walls and look for a way in. We cant stay in here forever, and if they manage to slip inside during the night they could do a lot of damage, Tannin mused aloud.


    Can we take them in straight up fight? That might be our best option, one of the vige militiamen asked.


    Charging them would be a ratherrge tactical mistake, Geralhd said. It looks like your militia and the men with me are about equal in numbers to Orvits force, but they are better armed and trained than your militia. Wed take heavy casualties if we managed to win the day at all. Defending the wall greatly increases our odds.


    This topic was actually something cknail cared about, so he spoke up. Youd be ughtered. Dont go out there.


    But we cant make them attack us when we want them to. I cant have the militia on duty forever, Tannin countered.


    So what do you want to do? the militia man asked.


    Im going to have to try and talk to them again. Maybe I can convince them that we dont have any gold.


    Thats a terrible idea, Beardy told him as he rolled his eyes disdainfully.


    Its also stupid. They might kill you, cknail added. He didnt want Tannin talking to the scavengers too much, he might learn more than he was supposed to. That would be awkward.


    Nheless, I have to at least try to resolve this peacefully. The cost of violence would be too high for Shelter to survive, Tannin replied. We need every man and woman alive.


    Several vigers tried to talk him out of it, but they were unsessful. cknail scowled, as Tannin ordered the gates opened a crack and stepped out to talk to Orvit again. Geralhd also volunteered to go with him and represent the former bandits.


    You need someone who can actually fight, cknail remarked as he stepped out after them. He wanted to be close in case he had to intervene or steer the conversation.


    Orvit and two of his lieutenants met them halfway. They were about fifty feet from both the gate and the rest of the scavengers. They were on a path of hardened dirt and sparse grass that ran through the viges fields.


    Have you decided to stop holding out on me? Orvit asked them.


    I wasnt holding out on you. No one in my vige knows anything about any gold, Tannin tried to exin calmly.


    Thats not what I heard, Orvit replied as he reached into a pouch and pulled out a small golden nugget. My source says that the vige chief knows about the mine, and hes been right about everything else so far.


    cknail smiled to himself. He remembered telling Elyias to say that. It had been a smart idea, not that he had any other kind.


    Attacking us wont gain you anything, Tannin told Orvit.


    Maybe I dont need to attack your precious vige, Orvit replied as he suddenly drew his de. Youre the one who supposedly has the answers I need. Why dont I just get them out of you?


    Geralhd and Tannin were both caught by surprise. They flinched back away from the naked de. However, cknail responded differently. The moment Orvit had touched his weapon cknail had started drawing his own, and he was faster. There was a faint whistling sound as the de sliced through the air.


    Try anything stupid and Ill cut you deep, cknail hissed as he pressed the tip of his sword into Orvits exposed side. Orvits two guards cursed but couldnt do anything. cknail had reacted too quickly for them.


    cknail, we need Geralhd began to say.


    No, enough talk. Were leaving. Run back to the gate, now, the hobgoblin told him.


    As Orvit stared at them malevolently, Tannin and Geralhd turned to flee back to the vige. cknail didnt immediately join them.


    I have a question for you, thief, he told Orvit as he poked him in the side.


    Agh, what is it, you creepy fiend? the man replied as he red hatefully at cknail. He had his sword out but there was no way he could use it before cknail could disembowel him, and he knew it.


    Do you work for Werrick?


    I do. Youre more informed than an ignorant hick would be, not to mention surprisingly fast with that de. That means you should know what happens to people who cross the Wolf. Let me go now and maybe Ill show you mercy.


    cknail didnt bother replying. He just smiled and kicked Orvit so that the man smashed into one of his guards and they both fell. Then cknail immediately dashed away. The remaining guard took a step after him but the hobgoblin was already halfway back to gate. He was a very fast runner.


    Ill get my hands on that gold! Those shoddy walls of your wont stop me, Orvit yelled as cknail pushed Tannin and Geralhd through the gate and then followed them.


    The gate thudded to a close behind them, and there was an uproar as all the vigers tried to talk at the same time. They sounded distressed and excited. Half of them seemed to want to run away or hide in their homes and the other half wanted to charge Orvits band. They were all stupid.


    I havent run like that in years, Tannin remarked in between deep breaths. He was red in the face and looked exhausted. Thanks for having my back, cknail.


    No problem. I couldnt let you die, the hobgoblin replied. It was a simple statement of fact.


    What do we do now? one of the vige militia leaders asked Tannin. He sounded more than a little fearful.


    Whatever we do, I dont think we can reason with this Orvit fellow, so lets keep these gates closed, Geralhd said. There was more yelling from all the humans, until Tannin silenced them all.


    Quiet down, all of you. This is important. What are the scavengers doing now? he asked the sentries atop the wall.


    They arent advancing. Their leader rejoined the rest of his men and they seem to be organizing something, the lookout answered him.


    Damnation, I almost wish they were attacking. We could get this over with, Tannin cursed.


    What do we do now? a viger asked.


    I dont know, Geralhdmented.


    There has to be some way to prevent Shelter from being destroyed, Tannin eximed angrily. Weve spent too many years struggling to keep this ce alive, through gue and famine. Im not going to let some asshole who cant ept the fact that we have no hidden caches of gold destroy it.


    Youre the vige elder, just tell us what you need, a member of the militia replied.


    The militia needs to stay on guard in case of an attack, Tannin told him. We can probably repel a frontal assault with ease, but the wall around this vige wasnt meant to keep a determined human enemy out. Come nightfall, they will try to slip through it. I wish I had an answer for that, but I dont. Id do anything for a solution.


    cknail was really liking the aura of desperation most the humans had. It was so strong he could smell it. Yes, this would work wonderfully. Now was the time for him to propose his solution and take control of the situation. The hobgoblin coughed loudly enough to get everyone attention.


    Would you really do anything for a solution? he asked Tannin as everyone turned to look his way.


    Yes the vige elder replied hesitantly as he met cknails gaze. He seemed to have detected something off about the question because he looked slightly suspicious.


    Good, because I could kill Orvit and his men for you.


    You could? There are a lot of them and only one of you, Tannin replied as he tried to see past the hobgoblins disguise.


    Im quite sneaky and I have some minions I could ask for help. Dont worry about that.


    cknail, we really should discuss this Geralhd interjected nervously before cknail quieted him with a re. He stuttered for a second and then shut up.


    If you pay my price I will save your people. Would you really do anything? cknail asked as he turned back to Tannin.


    I would, but I still dont see how you could possibly do what you say you can.


    I can do it because of what I am, the hobgoblin replied as he pulled his hood down and removed his scarf so that his face was visible.

 Out of Darkness 4

    Out of Darkness 4


    The brown cloth of cknails hood fell down to his shoulders. He then pulled off the scarf covering the front of his face. This meant the hobgoblins green visage was in for everyone to see. His long pointy ears and nose were clearly inhuman, and there were two short horns rising from his bald head. He sure was handsome.


    There were gasps of surprise and horror from some of the nearby residents of Shelter. The closest vigers stepped back and some of the militia raised their weapons defensively. cknail gave them his best friendly smile, but made an effort not to show his teeth. Some humans found them intimidating.


    What in the deepest of hells is this? Tannin cursed. He looked shocked and more than a little angry.


    Its my face, cknail replied matter-of-factly.


    Why are you green? one of the vigers asked. He sounded shocked.


    Ugh, Really? Stupid ignorant hicks, one of the bandits with Geralhd mumbled.


    Im a hobgoblin, ckanil exined for the people that didnt get it. Humans sometimes needed a few moments for their brains to start working.


    There were more murmurs now, and they sounded angrier. A lot of the vigers were ring at him with hate in their eyes. That wasnt good, but things were going the way cknail had expected them to. The sudden appearance of a hobgoblin in their midst had shocked and scared the vigers. They were reacting defensively and working themselves up into a state of uncontrolled anger and fear, not that there was much difference for humans. Luckily, cknail had a n in action to counter this. Magic.


    Beforeing here, cknail had met with Imp and asked about making Elixir. The fight with the alpha had used up his supply. Imp couldnt do it, however it turned out that the hobgoblin mage did have a vial of cknails Elixir on hand. He had taken it from Mahediumsir after Werricks attack. cknail had ingested a quarter of the vial on the spot. Thus, the hobgoblin squinted and focused his attention on Tannin and the vigers. He tried to recreate the feeling from his fight with the wolves. It was sort of a weird floaty feeling, like he was thinking about loosening some string, except mint vored.


    Since the arrival of the scavengers, cknail had been using his new found Vessel ability to tweak the emotions of the people around him. He could only affect their fear but that was still very useful. Fear seemed to affect everything humans did. When the raiders had arrived, cknail had yed up the peoples fears to make them more desperate and open to suggestion. Now he was doing the opposite, stifling their fears so they would be more epting. The slight headache meant it was working, that or he wasnt getting enough air. Maybe he should focus more on breathing.


    Did you know about this? Tannin asked Geralhd in a sharp usatory tone. I cant see how you couldnt have.


    I knew about it. cknail is my friend, Khita interjected. The redhead had been standing behind Geralhd but now she stepped up beside cknail and put a hand on his shoulder. The hobgoblin had to suppress the urge to bite her fingers. Now was not the time for that, so instead he just kept smiling.


    Yes, we all knew, Geralhd replied reluctantly. Meanwhile, Beardy took a step away from him and tried to look innocent and unrted. He didnt really blend in with the vigers, though.


    How can this be possible? Why would you travel with a hobgoblin? Tannin asked. He was clearly upset.


    cknail tried to focus his magic on the vige elders mind for a moment. He wasnt sure if it was working. He was very new at this and it was very weird. He couldnt really sense peoples'' thought or anything, but if he really concentrated, it felt he could feel their minds, or something. They were like piles of squirming worms. What cknail had to do was use his power to sort of calm the worms down or make them more agitated. It was actually much easier just to re the Elixir and send out a wave of fear that hit everyone, like he had with the wolf. All this thinking about worms and brains was making him hungry.


    Umm, thats a ratherplicated tale, Geralhd exined to Tannin. When he was just a little goblin he was picked up and raised by one of ourpanions, Saeter. Since then he has never really done anything wrong and he has been rather helpful actually. We grew used to having him around.


    See, Im helpful and Ive never done anything wrong. Nothing, ever, cknail crowed proudly.


    Ya! Khita agreed. Just like me. Everyone ignored her.


    Well, he has always obeyed orders, anyway, Beardy rified.


    They would have died so many times without my help, just like you right now, cknail pointed out.


    You shouldnt have let this creature inside our vige without permission! He could have hurt someone, Tannin yelled at Geralhd.


    They needed me to get home and I was theirpanion. They knew they could trust me, but they knew nothing about you, cknail countered.


    Um, thats actually a good point. Youre rather smart arent you? Tannin admitted as he studied cknail again. He seemed to be rethinking some things and getting his thoughts in order now. The worms that made up his brain were flopping around less.


    Weve talked over a dozen times. You know how smart I am, cknail pointed out. He was the smartest person here, or maybe anywhere. He was also magic.


    Right thats also a good point, Tannin replied before falling silent. He seemed momentarily at a loss for words.


    This is why I hid my face. I get asked so many dumb questions by angry people who know nothing, cknail hissed. There were also a lot of other reasons. It certainly made sneaking up on people easier.


    Why are you talking to the beast? We need to drive it out of town now! a member of the militia suddenly yelled. He was a pudgy man with a balding head.


    Shut your pie hole, Aster, Tannin told the speaker as he spun to face him. We cant afford to lose our heads now.


    Yes, if you try and chase me away then I wont be able to help you, cknail told them as he tried to magic their brains.


    You expect us to ept help from the likes of you? Youre a monster! Why would we ever do that? the man yelled in defiance of Tannin. His brain worms were practically dancing about.


    Because you need me, cknail replied in as soothing a voice as he could muster. It wasnt very soothing. I have never done anything but help you, and without my aid you and all your families will die, all of them. These invaders will slit their throats and burn you from your homes. I alone can save everything you hold dear.


    There was silence from all the nearby vigers now. They seemed unsure.


    Just what sort of price are you demanding? Tannin asked. He sounded apprehensive, like he wasnt sure he wanted to learn the answer.


    Several nearby vigers began whispering among themselves and guessing. cknail heard people mention babies, human blood, and women. The hobgoblin had no idea what hed do with two of those three, and eating the other would get him in trouble.


    I just want a few simple things. Nothing bad! cknail said.


    Like what? Tannin asked.


    First, I want to be your friend, toe and go from the vige, as before. I want to trade with you so I can get supplies. This would help us both.


    That sounds fine, Tannin answered reluctantly. This led to angry muttering from some of the vigers so he added, We can keep an eye on you easily enough.


    Second, I want the stuff in your heads, your secret knowledge.


    Our secret knowledge?


    Yes, the way you make things. I want that. You will teach me the secret of making cheese!


    There was silence of a different kind from the vigers.


    Is that everything? Tannin asked after moment.


    Yes.


    Um, alright. You have a deal.


    Huh, cknail muttered to himself. He was beginning to think he should have asked for more. Well, whatever. He could always trade them some yellow rocks for whatever he wantedter.


    So how do you n on dealing with our uninvited guests? Tannin asked.


    Ill kill them, cknail responded.


    There are a lot of them.


    I know that. It wont matter. I have minions and magic. Come morning you will see how helpful I can be!


    I dont think we have much of a choice. If you do actually manage to save Shelter from the raiders then on my word as the vige Elder we will wee you back regardless of your um skin color.


    and teeth, those things are horrifying, one of the militiamen muttered under his breath. He and most the militia were still staring at cknail suspiciously but they no longer seemed like they were considering preemptive violence.


    Hey, cknail. Step over this way for a moment, Geralhd quietly asked as he motioned for the hobgoblin toe closer. cknail did as he was asked and walked over to Geralhds side. Several of the nearby former bandits leaned in closer as well so they could hear.


    Im d that youve managed to tell Tannin the truth, but are you sure this is the best idea? Geralhd asked cknail quietly so that the vigers couldnt overhear. The minions you were talking about are Gob and the goblins, right? I dont think any of the old band are going to want to do anything too dangerous right now.


    Thats alright. As your leader, I want you all right here where you can help protect the vige, in case the raiders attack before night. I have enough hobgoblin minions for the rest, cknail replied.


    Wait, you have more hobgoblins now? How? And how many are we talking about? Beardy asked in shock.


    Pff, too many. Its annoying. I dont know what Im going to do with them all. There are more every day, cknail told him.


    Thats certainly an interesting bit of information, Geralhd remarked.


    Red Dog was right about everything, Beardy cursed. Weve doomed ourselves.


    Stop being such a cry baby, Khita told him. How can a grown man be so pathetic? Are you going to go cry alone in a corner somewhere now? The new hobgoblins arent so bad. Scamp and Imp are two of them.


    Of course, you must have known about this all along. Youve been spending half your time out in the forest with cknail. Seriously, what is wrong with your mind? Did you get dropped on your head as a child? Why did you keep this from us? Beardy shot back.


    You never asked. Goblins turn into hobgoblins, thats what they do, Khita replied with an indifferent shrug of her shoulders. This remark made Beardys eyes bug out and his face grow red. He raised a clenched fist and started to open his mouth, but cknail smiled and ced a hand on his shoulder.


    We should all just get along. Getting mad can be very bad for a humans health. Ive seen it many times, cknail told Beardy helpfully. Most the humans cknail had seen die had been rather upset before the end.


    Beardy didnt seem to know how to respond to this. He looked flustered and grunted sourly before shaking his head.


    See? Thats better! cknail told him cheerfully.


    There was wasnt much more to say, so after answering a few more questions, cknail began his preparations to leave. A pair of militia men escorted the hobgoblin to the far side of the vige, where cknail found a gap in the wall he could squeeze through. Khita had wanted toe too but cknail had quickly ditched her. Once outside, he made a dash for the forest. It didnt seem likely that the scavengers had set up a ring of sentries yet, but it was better safe than sorry.


    No enemies appeared at the edge of the forest to stop him, so cknail slipped into the trees without a problem. He immediately headed for the goblin settlement at a quick run. If he wanted to be ready before it got dark he needed to get things organized fast, and the uing fight was making him more than a little excited. This would be a hunt unlike any other.


    He was out of breath by the time the walls of the goblin camp came into sight through the thick greenery of the forest, but he had made very good time. cknail slowed down to a walk as he stepped through the gate. He needed to recover so that he could do some screaming. That was the best way to get attention.


    To me! Gob, hobgoblins, your chief is calling you, cknail yelled at the top of his lungs as he stomped into the camp. Goblins scattered before him and fled from the sound, in case he was angry or looking to assign them work.


    Almost immediately, Gob came running. The senior hobgoblin ran out from behind a hill and practically fell at cknails feet as he kneeled submissively. cknail had to jerk back to prevent himself from tripping over the other hobgoblin. Gob could move surprisingly fast at the weirdest times.


    Great master of the tribe, I am yours tomand, Gob eximed proudly as he thumped his chest with a closed fist. What is it you desire, warrior king?


    Stand, war master. Our tribe is going to war! cknail told him. The title had slipped off his tongue. Something about Gob''s use of them was contagious.


    Who dares threaten our territory and challenge cknail the Undefeated? Gob hissed furiously.


    By this time, a few more hobgoblins had appeared. They were standing back a bit and watching with great interest. At the mention of war they grew visibly more excited. Their eyes began to shine with bloodlust and a few of them licked their lips. cknail saw Twig, Bones, and Herah among them.


    A tribe of humans from afar hase to im ournd. They want the shiny stones thaty beneath the ground here, cknail shouted loudly enough for everyone to hear. But they shall not have them. We shall rend the flesh from their bones and tear them limb from limb instead!


    Yes, I will kill at yourmand with great joy, Gob hissed as the other hobgoblins made excited noises.


    They wont take our shinnies! Bones yelled.


    cknail cleared his throat and then raised his voice to an even higher volume. It was time to set the mood. These humans are many but they are still prey. We shall hunt them through the dark and descend upon them unaware. We will slit their throats as they sleep and pull the ground out from beneath their feet. I will lead us to victory! There will be loot for us all, too much shiny human things for us to carry!


    The hobgoblins roared their approval and pumped their fists up into the air excitedly. There were around two dozen of them now, but cknail still saw some faces missing. The talk of loot had really got them going, which was good. cknail needed his minions to be brave, and that wasnt what hobgoblins and goblins were known for. However, it didnt seem like he would have to influence them using magic, yet.


    Now go my minions. Gather up your weapons, return here to obey War Master Gob, and then together we shall hunt! cknail yelled. The cheering hobgoblins immediately roared their approval again and then dispersed to prepare.


    As the hobgoblins ran off, cknail turned back to Gob and began filling him in. There were a lot of tasks that needed to bepleted quickly. When the other hobgoblin knew what to do, cknail hurried off to find Imp. The hobgoblin shaman had been missing from the gathering and cknail needed to speak to him. It was time to find out exactly what the mage was capable of.


    Predictably, Imp was in his hut. He was working away at some sort of project, andpletely focused on a small ss beaker full of cloudy grey liquid. cknail noticed a few other oddities lying around that drew his interest as well.


    Imp, stop what you are doing. The tribe is going to war! I need you to prepare your magics for battle, cknail told him.


    The hobgoblin shaman looked up and blinked a few times in confusion before managing to focus on cknail. This is very important. Maybe I should stay here?


    What is it? cknail asked. He normally didnt appreciate disrespect or disobedience but he didnt want to mess around with magic either.


    I dont know, but it asionally bubbles, Imp replied as he turned back to stare at the beaker.


    Youreing with us, cknail ordered him coldly. What was it with some hobgoblins and weird obsessions?


    What do you expect me to do in a fight? Imp asked.


    Magic. Make things explode, like boom and kam!


    I can do that. Its the stopping the boom that is hard.


    Great! cknail replied as he grinned and rubbed his hands together gleefully. It had been too long since he had seen anything explode. Pottery and furnaces didnt count.


    Also, one more thing. Why do you have two goblins in cages? cknail asked as he turned to look at the wooden cages in question. They were made ofshed together branches that had been hardened in fire, and inside of them sat two small goblins who were watching the hobgoblins conversation with great interest.


    So I can use their blood. They have the magic in their blood. I cut them and extract it for my potions, Imp exined.


    Cant they get out of them? cknail asked curiously. A goblin could easily escape from a wooden cage given time.


    Of course, but why would they want to? Imp responded as he blinked in surprise.


    Nevermind, cknail told him. He was too busy to think about this right now. He had a battle to win. Hopefully one where lots of things exploded.

 Out of Darkness 5

    Out of Darkness 5


    The branches overhead creaked and swayed back and forth as the wind blew. The leaves rustled restlessly alongside them. It was a cool afternoon and the sun was just beginning to disappear behind the horizon. However, the shadowy canopy overhead blocked sight of the dusk sky and stifled the light it cast. There was an expectant feeling to the earthy smelling air, and for good reason. Dozens of silent hobgoblins waited in the shadows around cknail. Soon the hunt wouldmence.


    There was a faint rustling noise as Scamp stepped out of the bushes and approached cknail. He stalked forward and gave the other hobgoblin a bow, which earned him a nod in return.


    I circled the human camp, boss. They have no watchers in the trees, and only a few men watching the fields around their tents, Scamp quietly informed his chieftain.


    Then we move now. Follow me. I will lead the way, cknail replied as he grinned in anticipation.


    cknail shivered in delight. It had been too long since he had hunted his favorite prey, humans. Nothing else made him feel quite so fulfilled as taking down a thinking enemy that he had outyed. The fact that these men worked for Werrick also added to his delight. When this hunt was done he would be one step closer to his vengeance.


    With a wave of his hand, cknail signaled his minions and began creeping forward. Silently, the other hobgoblins followed after him. They barely made a sound as they slipped through the gloomy trees and bushes. Every hobgoblin waspletely focused on the task ahead.


    It didnt take them long to reach the edge of the forest. Like Scamp had said, they encountered no scouts or any human at all until they reached the border. cknail crouched behind a bush and peered out into the fields. There were campfires burning there and they cast long shadows as men moved around them. The raiders camp was made up of several clusters of tents, with a ring of watch fires set up around it to provide the sentries with light and ward off beasts from the forest.


    The camp was situated between the forest and Shelter, and since it had been set up out of bow range from the vige, that meant it was only about a hundred feet from cknails current position. After a few moments counting the shadows and studying theyout of the encampment, cknail turned back to minions and began issuing orders. He knew how to infiltrate this group of humans.


    Split into three groups. Gob, Scamp, and I will lead them. We will each aim for one of the closest fires and take out the scouts there. You will then leave behind imposters to rece the scouts and cover our exit, as the others move in deeper. Remember to withdraw when you hear the signal, he told them.


    There were murmurs and nods of eptance from the listening hobgoblins. A few of them even bowed, including Gob. cknail had no idea where they had learned to do that, but he kind of liked it.


    The hobgoblins then quickly organized themselves and began creeping out into the fields. The three groups of ten separated and headed for different targets. Each hobgoblin crept across the ground on all fours and kept their head down. It was slow going but they were patient. When the shadows shifted and light from the fires shone out in their direction, the nearby hobgoblins froze and waited until it passed.


    When each group was in position they signaled their readiness with a birdcall. At the sound of the third call, they made their move. Hobgoblins with bows sighted their targets as others with drawn des rose up and dashed closer. cknail led the way. He drew two long daggers and lunged out of the darkness. In a blur of motion, he hit the exposed back of one of the sentries. The man was looking in the wrong direction, and before he could even turn around, cknail had cut his throat. That done, cknail spun around to face the next target, but there was no need for him to do anything. Another hobgoblin had already stabbed the man, and his sword was sunk deep into victims chest. In fact, there were no sentries left standing. Thest one coughed quietly and copsed onto the ground with an arrow in side. All three of the sentries had been taken out before they could raise the rm.


    cknail quickly looked towards the other two campfires hed ordered attacked. He saw some quick shes of movement as the hobgoblin there finished up, but he didnt hear any loud noises that would alert the enemy. Most of cknails minions had received only the most basic of training, but they had seeded in their task. cknail had been more than little worried. So many things could have gone wrong. He had never tried to lead so many hobgoblins in such aplicated manner before. It was a good thing that hunting such as this came naturally to hobgoblins. They knew what to do. They just obeyed their instincts.


    Smiling to himself, cknail picked out three hobgoblins and ordered them to rece the sentries around the fire. They quickly looted some human clothes andplied. If anyone looked they would be indistinguishable from humans at a distance. cknail then joined in the looting of the bodies and pocketed a dagger and some coins. There was no way the other hobgoblins werent doing it, so he might as well join in.


    Enough, we need to move, cknail hissed after hed finished searching the body of the man he had killed. His minions reluctantly did as they were told. Unlike cknail, they had never seen such riches before.


    The sounds of human activity from deeper within the encampment were much clearer now. Among the tents, people were walking around and talking amongst themselves. ck listened for a moment before motioning for his minions to follow him deeper in. Going in further was risky because it became much harder to keep an eye on all his minions, but it was still too early to head back.


    The hobgoblins hanging back away from campfires slipped into the dark space between the lights and joined theirpanions in a dash towards the enemy camp. A few humans looked in their direction but they were taken down by archers before they could figure out what was happening. Then the hobgoblins hit the tents. The savage killers dispersed to wreak as much chaos as they could.


    As the firelight flickered behind him, cknail charged ahead. He crouched low as he ran past a pair of empty tents. There were two raiders walking together off to his right. One of them had a hand raised and was pointing in the general direction of some of cknails minions. They had noticed movement in the darkness but they had no idea what it was yet. cknail decided to make sure they didnt ever find out. He circled around another tent and then dashed out behind them. With his sword raised high, cknail lunged forward and attacked. Elixir burned through his blood as his first sh whipped through the air and tore into the neck of his target. The man never even saw the deing. As the body crumpled, the second man flinched and turned around. cknail didnt waste a second. He shifted his body weight, stepped forward, and stabbed his second target right through the stomach. The man gasped and coughed. Flecks of bloody spittle flew out of his mouth, and then cknail withdrew his de. The raider copsed onto the ground and went still, but cknail was already running off to find a new target.


    For a while, there was only an asional scuffle or surprised gasp as hobgoblins jumped on unsuspecting raiders or slipped into tents to kill their sleeping upants, but then a ear shattering scream of pain rent the air and everything changed. cknail froze as he was about to cut open a tent that looked upied. Around him, raiders began yelling and drawing weapons. The attackers had been discovered. cknail grunted sourly and stepped back. He hesitated a moment about whether to call the retreat, but then a blinding white light appeared in the center of the camp. He squinted and turned away, as the light illuminated all the tents and cast away the darkness. It revealed the shadowy figures of the raiders and the hobgoblins, and cknail knew it was time to go. That was mage light. If he ever figured out which hobgoblin had messed up he was going to get such a kicking.


    It was somewhat unnecessary at this point, but cknail took a moment to scream the retreat signal. The harsh wordless yell echoed over the raiders'' camp and then was repeated by other hobgoblins that heard it. The violent screams sounded more like the bloodthirsty call of a beast than a signal to retreat, but that was sort of the point. Now that the hobgoblins had been discovered it was time to spread fear and confusion.


    Partially revealed by the mage light, shadowy hobgoblins began pulling back away from the tents. They headed towards the periphery campfires they had seized on their way in, but it was not an orderly retreat. Many hobgoblins were still looting or had been engaged inbat. cknail quickly dashed towards the closest fight. He needed to buy his minions some time.


    In front of him, two hobgoblins were struggling to fight off two raiders. Without the advantage of surprise they were having a hard time just defending themselves. Humans wererger and stronger than hobgoblins and they were almost always better trained. The des of the raiders were hammering down against the hobgoblins weapons and pushing them back. Then one of hobgoblins was knocked backwards after an awkward block. The raider facing him stepped forward to finish him off, but cknail intervened. He charged in and parried the mans downwards swing. There was a metallic ng as the des met, and then cknail twisted around andunched an attack of his own that forced the man back.


    Retreat. I got this, cknail hissed at his minions as he took a swipe at the second man. Both hobgoblins immediately jumped back and ran away, which annoyed cknail a little. They could have at least thanked him.


    cknails sour thoughts were interrupted when his opponents attacked again. He parried one sh and sidestepped the other. There were more and more raiders appearing, so cknail knew he had to hurry. He would soon be swamped by angry humans.


    Thus, cknail readied himself. The raider to his left shed at his head while the other waited for an opening. Just as he blocked the blow, cknail met both the raiders gazes and then sted them with fear. He reached down into himself and pushed the burning power of Elixir out at them. Instantly, the raiders minds trembled and they flinched. Fear was in on their faces as they went stiff. That was all the opening cknail needed. He knocked away the de of the man who had just attacked him and twisted his own sword around into a sh at the other raider. Caught off guard, the raider couldnt stop the de from slicing deep into his shoulder.


    Demon piss, the man swore as he stumbled back and dropped his weapon.


    The remaining raider raised his de defensively to block a new attack by cknail. It was a clumsy maneuver. He still hadnt recovered from the terror attack, so cknail had no problem using leverage to force the de aside and stab the man in the chest. cknail then tugged his weapon loose and jumped on the fallen raider. A few savage chopster he was dead as well.


    Theres one of the intruders! a deep voice yelled. cknail looked up to see a squad of heavily armed raiders bearing down on him. He quickly sheathed his sword and ran away. As the leader he was too important to risk, unless the situation seemed like fun.


    Off to one side, a hobgoblin was dodging the wild sword shes of a raider. It looked like the hobgoblin had a wound on his leg so he couldnt run away. cknail took a brief moment to veer over and help. The raider saw himing and shed at him, but he dodged under the blow and kicked the man aside.


    Go, he told the hobgoblin.


    As the wounded hobgoblin obeyed, cknail looked around. It seemed like there werent any more of his minions in trouble. All of them were withdrawing towards the forest. However there were a fewggards. One unconscious hobgoblin was being carried by another and a few others were also moving slowly, either because of injuries or because they were loaded down by loot. Rolly was carrying an entire pile of pots, and was even wearing one on his head. cknail had no idea why.


    To make sure his minions escaped, cknail ran over to guard their backs. There were dozens of armed raiders chasing them, and they were only about two dozen feet away.


    Dont let the bloody fiends escape! a taller man roared as he brandished a sword above his head and led the charge after the fleeing hobgoblins.


    Sensing that he needed to do something, cknail turned and took a deep breath. His cloak whipped behind him as he faced the raiders that were trying to run him down, and then he screamed as loudly as he could. Hatred and hunger poured out from him.


    Humans, I am your death! I am cknail, the hunter of men. You serve the Wolf, but he cannot protect you from me. None of you will ever escape the Green. You have gone too deep, and now you are mine, cknail yelled. He then let out a deep echoingugh that was filled to the brim with bloodlust and malevolence, and red Elixir. As the power rolled through him, he boiled it and sted it outwards so that it mmed into the raiders.


    The power hit them like a physical wave. Most the raiders slowed and visibly flinched away from cknail. A dozen or so jumped back and came to aplete stop, while several even tripped and fell. The entire group of charging raiders fell into chaos as they hit each other and stumbled, and that was when the arrows hit them. The retreating hobgoblins had reached the campfires, and the hobgoblins stationed there were taking the opportunity to cover theirpanions. Arrows whirred through the air and mmed into the raiders. There were shrieks of pain and half a dozen more of them fell.


    Gods damn it all. Keep moving! the enemy leader roared. His words didnt aplish much. His subordinates hade toplete stop.


    You cowardly bitches! Come back here and fight like men, the enraged raider then yelled at cknail.


    I am no man, cknailughed as he spun around and ran past the campfires. The darkness there engulfed him and he disappeared from sight.


    The retreating hobgoblin chieftain soon caught up with his minions. They were waiting for him at the edge of the forest. Their nted pupils shone as they reflected the distant firelight, and most of them had satisfied smiles on their faces. There was no sign of pursuit, although cursing and screams could still be heard from the raiders camp.


    It is done, great leader. We are victorious! All praise to you, Gob said as he stepped out from behind a tree. He didnt look any worse for wear, which was good. Gob was the one hobgoblin that cknail couldnt easily rece.


    What he said, boss, Scamp added with smile. He had a swollen eye that looked like it had been punched, but he was carrying a new sword and there was a sack slung over his shoulder.


    All the familiar faces cknail remembered seemed to be there. Bones seemed to be unconscious but Twig was supporting him and he was still breathing. It seemed weird to cknail that Twig would go out of his way to help his rival, but whatever. Herah and Rolly were present, and both of them had grabbed quite a bit of loot. It didnt seem like they had lost anyone. How many hobgoblins had they started with? That would have probably been a good thing to have learned beforehand.


    Did we lose anyone? he asked his assembled minions.


    Maybe? Scamp replied. He sounded uncertain.


    Maybe? cknail enquired impatiently.


    One of ours died, but we grabbed his corpse, so hes not really lost, Scamp replied as he pointed to a body slumped up against a tree.


    Ah, good, cknail eximed as he nodded in satisfaction. He had ordered them to retrieve any bodies.


    Humans feared things they didnt understand. If they had a corpse to examine, gloat over, or make into a trophy their fear would have diminished. cknail wanted these servants of Werricks stewing in their own terror as the darkness pressed in around them all night. He wanted to smell their fear on the wind. He wanted them to jump out of their skin every time they heard a twig crack and see hobgoblins in every shadow. cknail knew humans and he knew fear. Their terror would sap them of their strength and leave them ripe for plucking.


    Since all the other stuff was out of the way, cknail asked the most important question next. Now, did any of you find any cheese?

 Out of Darkness 6

    Out of Darkness 6


    The dusk raid on the raiders camp had only yielded one small piece of cheese. It hadnt even tasted all that good, too in. What was the point of cheese too weak to water your eyes or burn your nose? That seemed like a waste to cknail. All in all, the raid had been somewhat of a disappointment. That was more because of other factors, but the cheese thing was still disappointing.


    It seemed like that after killing the sentries most the hobgoblins had avoidedbat and focused on stealing everything that wasnt nailed down, which had been everything but the tents, and even then an enterprising hobgoblin had found a way to grab one. That meant the raid had only resulted in the deaths of less than two dozen humans. They did however gain a whole bunch more weapons, a pile of pots, several sacks of food, and a lot of other random knickknacks.


    I found some new knives! I cant wait to show Khita, Herah eximed happily as she followed after cknail.


    Do you want one, boss? she asked him. Ill give you one for a favor!


    No, thanks, cknail replied as he kept on walking. He was lost in thought.


    Are you sure? You might like it!


    Instead of replying, cknail picked up the pace a little. Being dragged into this conversation seemed like a bad idea.


    The hobgoblins were headed back to the forward base they had set up. The main goblin encampment was too far away. cknail wanted to keep close to Shelter so he could keep an eye on things. The new camp was only about two minutes away from Shelter, but cknail was willing to bet the raiders wouldnt be doing too much exploring now. The Green could be a terrifying and dangerous ce even under normal circumstances.


    I got a whole bunch of human hair! Its all mine now, a bald hobgoblin announced as he proudly showed off the tufts of various colors that were in his hands.


    Why did you waste your time on hair? Thats useless. I got pants! another hobgoblin responded as he held up his loot. He was currently wearing just a loincloth so cknail didnt me him for being so excited.


    As the group of hobgoblins walked through some bushes, their temporary camp came into sight. Some time ago, a huge tree had fallen over and mmed into another giant. This had resulted in a small clearing where there was no canopy overhead. The massive tree trunks fall had been broken by the other tree so now the entire thingy on an angle. Near the base, there was enough room under it for hobgoblins to stand, and they had covered the open sides with long branches and green bushels of leaves to make walls.


    After all the hobgoblins had taken a moment to pile their ill-gotten gains somewhere, cknail called them over for a meeting.


    You were all terrible. I did all the hard work, cknail told his minions. You didnt kill enough people. That was the entire point of this attack!


    There was some assorted muttering from the assembled hobgoblins and they looked away from their chief, usually toward their loot. However, they didnt seem all that remorseful.


    Scamp, take two other hobs and watch the enemy. Send me someone if they do anything, cknail ordered his subordinate.


    I want to rest! I just finished fighting, Scamp protested. Send someone else less deserving!


    There is no one else less deserving, anywhere, cknail countered. Ill be sending recements to find you after a while, and if youre napping they will have orders to beat you silly.


    Since there was no way he could argue with cknail, Scamp picked out two other hobgoblins and headed back to watch the fields. Imp was standing off to one side of the main group of hobgoblins so cknail turned to face him.


    I didnt see you doing anything. Why were there no big booms? cknail asked him crossly. He had wanted some big booms.


    I saw no good targets. Its hard to use magic stones, Imp replied with a shrug. He had been one of the hobgoblins assigned to guard the campfires.


    cknail sighed. He should have probably asked about this before. Why were all his minions such terrible subordinates? They needed to do better.


    What do your magics do, exactly? he enquired of the mage. Mahedium had staffs that shot fire and nes that sucked things up.


    Imp took a second to process the question. He titled his head to the side and licked his lips.


    I have rocks that give off glow and others that burn a lot, he responded slowly as if unsure of himself.


    You cant shoot fire or anything?


    No, I have the magic fire but I dont have a staff to push the mes away. After I set the crystal alight they explode after a few seconds, Imp exined. cknail found these magics to be less than impressive.


    So how do you use them to fight?


    I throw them.


    cknail sighed. You dont have anything else?


    I do have some other stones that explode in other interesting ways. Some of them are green or make whistling noises! The problem is that they sometimes go boom in your hand, which is bad.


    That is a problem, cknail admitted. One hobgoblin mage throwing mana crystals that exploded into me wasnt going to be all that useful. He would have to think about this. He wanted magic, and if anyone coulde up with a solution it would be him, the greatest hobgoblin genius ever.


    After a little more conversation, the hobgoblin warband settled down and prepared to wait out the night. Hobgoblins had great low light vision, but even they couldnt see through the ck of night. They set up cots in the crude structure they had built under the fallen tree, and they even built a small fire off to one side where it was shielded from view. When he wasnt dealing withints about who deserved what loot, cknail caught some sleep.


    When morning was just beginning to spring to life, cknail was up and waiting for it. In the dark of early dawn, he led his warband back to Shelter. From atop a tall tree at the edge of the fields he surveyed the raiders camp. The leafy branch he was perched on swayed ever so slightly beneath him as he counted the tents and men. cknail wasnt great at counting but he believed there were still around a hundred raiders left.


    Thats too many smelly humans, cknail muttered to himself. He would have to work on cutting them down more.


    The tree trembled a bit more as cknail climbed down and rejoined his minions. It was still dark out enough that hobgoblins would have the advantage. The sun hadnt quite appeared on the horizon.


    Its time to hunt again! he excitedly informed his minions.


    Another raid like theirst would go a long way towards breaking their opponents, especially if the hobgoblins actually kept on task this time. Once the raiders realized that the hobgoblins could attack with impunity at any time they would be consumed by their terror and be easy prey.


    At hismand, cknails minions split into three groups and slipped out of the forest tounch a new attack. Their targets were the groups of sentries that cknail had picked out from up above in the tree. Carefully, the hobgoblins crept across the gloomy fields towards their prey.


    This time however, things didnt go to n. Before any of the hobgoblins had reached the sentries, a cry of warning reverberated through the air. cknail froze where he was crouched down low against the earth. He looked up to see that the sentries ahead of him were alert and scanning the ground around him. The man beside him had a strung bow in his hands, and there was noise from deeper within the enemy camp.


    Reinforce the perimeter now! Secondary squads move into position, a sentry yelled.


    Are the attackers human? You know what some of the others were saying, another raider asked fearfully. The only answer he got was an order from his sergeant to shut up.


    Miserable slimy slugs, cknail cursed. It seemed that the raiders had learned their lesson. They had been caught unaware the first time, but now they were ready for another sneak attack.


    Frowning furiously, cknail signaled to the hobgoblin next to him. His minion nodded, rose up, nocked an arrow to his bow, and then took a shot at the sentry with the bow. The projectile flew straight and true. It whirred through the air and mmed into the archers chest, knocking him over. cknail could have totally made that shot if he had wanted to, but he didnt need to, since he was the leader.


    Retreat! cknail yelled as he rose to his feet. He didnt need to worry about being shot now that the archer was down.


    As more armed humans appeared to reinforce the sentries, cknail and his minions ran back to forest. An arrow flew past them and sank into the ground with a twang, but it missed by several feet. When cknail reached the trees he turned back to see that this time the enemy was giving chase. Eight armed and armored raiders were chasing him.


    Follow me, cknail hissed at his minions as he picked up the pace and dove deeper into the forest.


    The raiders stopped at the edge of the forest and didnt follow, but cknail kept going. The humans soon disappeared from sight, and cknail veered off towards the base camp. Once he got there, he began pacing back and forth furiously as he waited for the other squads to return. The other hobgoblins avoided him. This mission had not gone well. After a few minutes had passed, Scamp and Gob finally showed up with their minions in tow. One of them was visibly wounded and bleeding from a gash on his arm.


    What happened? cknail hissed as he stomped over to Scamps side. He highly suspected that if anyone had messed up that it would be Scamp.


    They saw Fingersing and shot him, not my fault, Scamp replied warily. He wouldnt meet cknails eyes.


    And then they shot me, the wounded hobgoblin added.


    Where is Fingers? cknail asked.


    He dead, Scamp answered matter-of-factly.


    A sigh escaped cknails lips. Of course he was. The raid had gone even worse than he had thought. They had only killed one human and they lost a hobgoblin. To make matters worse, it was clear that sneak attacks werent going to work anymore. cknail was going to have toe up with an entirely new n. He really needed to find a subordinate to do this type of thinking for him. He was the leader, so it was beneath him.


    After helping sew the wounded hobgoblins cut shut and applying some herbs to prevent infection  that was another thing he needed to find apetent minion to do - cknail sent scouts back to watch the enemy camp. He then took a seat up on top of the huge fallen tree they were camping under. Once up there, he brooded and tried toe up with some ideas. He had promised to take care of the raiders, but it was proving harder than he had thought it would be. When you wanted humans alive they got themselves killed doing something stupid, and when you wanted them dead they defended themselves. It was frustrating.


    The problem had to be the quality of his minions. The entire point of them was so that cknail didnt have to do everything himself, and yet here he was, basically doing everything himself.


    The sky overhead grew brighter quickly as an hour passed, and then the bushes rustled as one of the scouts returned.


    Boss, the enemy tribe is moving! the hobgoblin scout shouted as he ran to below cknails perch.


    The hobgoblin chieftain immediately dropped down andnded on the ground. He shouted out a quick series of orders, grabbed his weapons, and then dashed back over to the fields around Shelter. His minions followed right behind him.


    When he reached the fields he was greeted by the sight of fighting. The enemy had copied cknails idea. They had split into three and attacked Shelter early in the morning before most people got up. Three different sections of the wall around Shelter were under attack by groups of twenty to thirty heavily armed men. Men with axes were trying to chop their way inside through the wooden palisade while theirpanions covered them. It looked like they werent meeting all that much resistance and would soon get inside.


    Quick, which spot seems weakest? cknail asked Scamp.


    Um, that one? the other hobgoblin replied uncertainly as he pointed to the closest squad of enemies. cknail took moment to study his choice. The men with the axes there had already cut through one post and were in the process of pulling it out of the way so they could climb inside.


    Alright, you better not be wrong, cknail said as he motioned for his minions to form up around him. It was time for cknail to save the day, again.


    What is it you wish, wise leader? Gob asked as he stepped up beside him.


    Were going to run down those outside humans.


    But its bright out and they will see using. You told us not to fight humans unless we could ambush them, Bones pointed out.


    The rules change! This will be an entirely new type of surprise. They wont suspect that we will charge right at them, cknail replied


    There were murmurs of conversation as the hobgoblins thought this over. They didnt sound convinced or enthusiastic.


    If you dont fight them then you will have to fight me, cknail said as he gave his minions a harsh re. He was the leader; other peoples opinions didnt matter.


    And me! Gob added in support.


    Now charge! cknail yelled as he drew his sword and pointed it towards Shelter.


    The hobgoblins hesitated for a moment, but then they all broke out into a run. cknail waited a second and then followed after them. He wanted to keep an eye on them so he stuck to the back, where he could motivate them to run faster.


    The mob of hobgoblins raced across he fields towards the walls of Shelter. Ahead of them, the raiders had hacked their way through the palisade and were starting to climb through. The attackers were slightly outnumbered by the hobgoblins, but cknail still didnt consider that great odds for his side.


    The enemy wasnt looking behind themselves. They were focused on getting inside the wall, so they didnt see the hobgoblinsing until thest second. Onerger man who was waiting his turn happened to look over his shoulder.


    Bloody shits, weve got iing, he yelled in a panic. His nearbypanions turned as well, spotted the hobgoblins, and raised their weapons.


    Demon spawn! Theyre real, another man babbled.


    Right before the two groups met, cknail sped up and dashed to the front of his minions. With inhuman speed, he lunged at the enemy before they were ready. His sword sliced into a mans belly as he ducked under a hurried blow. Another man swung at him. cknail parried the blow and kicked the man in the knee. There was a crunch as the limb gave out. Still reeling from cknails assault, the other raiders were unprepared for the wave of hobgoblins behind him, and the hobgoblins knew it. They grinned and growled fiercely as they pounced on the raiders.


    Form up on me! a bearded man with blonde hair yelled as he swung at a hobgoblin with an axe. In response to his voice, the raiders still facing the wall turned and stepped into position next to theirpatriots. Together they formed a tight defensive line and began pushing the hobgoblins back.


    A sword sliced through the air next to cknails head. He twisted around and shed at the face of the swords wielder. The man jumped back but the edge of the sword grazed his cheek and drew blood as he fell over backward. That was when cknail saw one of the raiders stumble out of the hole in the wall. As cknail unleashed a flurry of blows at another raider that had been about to strike down a hobgoblin, the man hurried over to the blonde raiders side.


    Were being pushed out of the vige, captain, the raider yelled at hismander as another man popped through the wall. The fighting here made too much noise and the peasants swamped us before we were ready for them.


    Then were retreating, themander replied. He raised his voice and ordered his men to fall back. All together, the raiders stepped back while keeping their defensive line strong.


    Seeing this, cknail instantly yelled for his own minions to let them go. Within seconds, the two sides werepletely disentangled and the raiders began falling back. They kept close to the wall as they headed to meet up with the other raider squads.


    Do we have dead or wounded? cknail asked as he watched the humans go.


    Two dead and several wounded, Gob replied.


    Anyone important?


    No.


    Good, cknail said as he thought about his next move.


    Im still alive! Scamp added, in case anyone cared.


    The raiders disappeared around the curve in the wall so cknail decided that now was a good time for his force to leave. Trying to enter the vige and helping out there would probably be a bad idea, and hed lost enough minions for one day. They were receable but annoying to train. cknail was just about to order the withdrawal when he heard a familiar voice.


    cknail, over here, Geralhd yelled as he leaned out of the hole the raiders had knocked in the wall.


    Oh, hello, cknail replied as he blinked in surprise.


    Is this one of those humans were not supposed to kill? Bones asked as he looked between the sword in his hand and Geralhd.


    Yes, that one belongs to our chief, Gob told him.


    He has snacks! Scamp added.


    Thank the gods I found you! Geralhd continued yelling. When the raiders attacked we had no idea what was going on and if anything had happened to you. Also, by all that is divine, those are a lot of hobgoblins.


    Its me, Scamp, Scamp exined as he walked over to Gerahld. Do you have any food?


    Wow, you sure have grown, Geralhd remarked in surprise. Youre barely recognizable after your metamorphosis.


    We need to leave, cknail interjected. Thest thing he wanted to do was listen to Scamp and Geralhd catch up. He could only take so much stupid. The enemy could show up at any second, but dont worry. I have a great n and everything is going the way I expected it to.


    Do you mind filling me in quickly? Geralhd asked.


    Sorry, I got to go! cknail told him as he motioned for his minions to head back to the forest. He then took off and joined them. Scamp was obviously reluctant to move, but Gob gave him a shove.


    Geralhd called after them but cknail didnt stop. He had lied. He had no n, and he needed toe up with a new one, quick. The raiders had seen what cknail had done and countered it. He needed to counter their counter without getting countered in return, simple. It shouldnt be that hard. Humans were nothing but predictable. Unfortunately, one mistake could ruin everything, and he didnt have much time. Eventually the raiders would find their way inside Shelter or call for reinforcements. cknail had to deal with them quickly or his ns to avenge Saeter would fall apart. He couldnt let that happen. Now that his master was dead and he was alone, vengeance was everything. Nothing else gave him purpose.

 Out of Darkness 7

    Out of Darkness 7


    What would Saeter do? As cknail led the retreat back to his forward base, he pondered this question. There was a ratherrge group of humans he had to get rid of and he couldnt quite figure out how. His first raid had killed over twenty of them, but that still left almost a hundred. Some more had probably died attacking Shelter, but the fighting there hadnt looked too bloody. Before leaving, cknail had stuck around to watch the battle, and the enemy had been driven off before they could get past the walls. However, they had cut some holes in it, which meant the vigers had to watch several new vulnerable areas. Next time, the raiders might get through, especially if they were prepared for cknails hobgoblins to counterattack from the forest.


    cknail grunted and scratched his nose. Maybe if a surprise attack wouldnt work he could use an ambush instead? Yes, that idea had potential. Saeter had mentioned something about hobgoblins and ambushes before. A sh of excitement invigorated cknail, as the pieces began falling into ce within his mind. This would work, but he was going to need to go back to the main goblin encampment and prepare.


    When the hobgoblins arrived at the base they had made under the fallen tree, cknail began giving out orders. He wanted most the hobgoblins to stay and keep a watch on things, but Gob had toe with him. Gob was skilled at rounding up workers and keeping them in line. Imp was also needed because he was their only mage.


    Scamp is in charge while Im gone, cknail reluctantly told his subordinates. Was that seriously his best option? He really needed better minions.


    Im the boss! Scamp eximed happily to the hobgoblin next to him. No one else was excited about it. The other hobgoblins looked bored or irritated by the prospect of serving under him.


    Only until I get back. Just watch the enemy and dont do anything stupid, cknail told Scamp as he grimaced sourly. This was going to work, right?


    With everything in order, cknail and a few of his helpers headed back to the main goblin encampment. Their run through the deep forest was uneventful and they made good time. Once there, it took a while for them to round up all the help and supplies they needed. cknail even had an idea about how to use Imps magic stones, without getting lots of hobgoblins maimed or killed. By the time they got back to the forward base it was starting to get dark outside. Scamp was napping atop the fallen tree but he quickly hopped down when cknail returned.


    The enemy humans attacked the vige again, but the cowards quickly retreated when a big fight started, Scamp reported to cknail. He seemed to be pretending he hadnt just been asleep, even though everyone had obviously seen him.


    And you just watched and didnt do anything stupid? cknail asked as he eyed Scamp carefully. He had a bad feeling.


    Um, I shot at some humans with my bow, Scamp admitted. Then the no good cheaters shot back and I had to run away.


    cknail was just d no one had died. One stupid attack was no big deal. He snorted and hit the top of Scamps with his closed fist. The other hobgoblin just took the blow, scowled, and rubbed his now sore head.


    So, great chieftain, what is your new n? Gob asked.


    Were going to split into three groups and attack their sentries! cknail exined as he grinned proudly.


    Um, this meager hobgoblin doesnt understand how thats any different from before...


    Just trust me! Im way smarter than you, cknail responded jovially.


    I like that n! Khita added excitedly.


    Very slowly, cknail turned to stare at her. His eyes narrowed as he took in the sight of her annoying face. The young redhead was grinning happily at him. Her eyes were practically shinning with excitement.


    What are you doing here? he asked her.


    She was wandering around in the forest looking for you, Scamp exined.


    And you invited her here? cknail asked in disbelief.


    She had snacks, Scamp replied with a shrug.


    This sort of thing was exactly the sort of stupid stuff cknail had been worried about. The hobgoblin chieftain turned and smacked Scamp again. What was he supposed to do with Khita now?


    I have some snacks for you too, cknail, Khita told him.


    You cant bribe me with food, right now. Im not hungry, cknail replied contemptibly. How simple did she think he was?


    Since there was no getting rid of her now, cknail agreed to let Khita join his force. She could serve as a human shield. If he did save the entire vige of Shelter they would probably forgive him the death of one idiot. Still, she might slow him down so she would have to sit out the first attack and stay back with Imp and the others. They needed to hang back and make some preparations.


    When hed marshaled his forces and distracted Khita by giving her a meaningless job, cknail led his force around the edge of the forest until they arrived at the staging ground he had selected. There, arge tree-studded hill rose up right where the fields ended. The uneven ground also meant that the border between the clearing and the forest was irregr. Only the t earth had been cleared. Off to the left of the hill, there was a ridge where the trees and bushes jutted out into the clearing by almost thirty feet.


    Perfect, this will work great, cknailughed as he looked around from atop the hill.


    The tribe is ready, clever leader, Gob told him. He sounded unusually unsure about thest part.


    Good, just remember to retreat back here when I give the signal, cknail responded as he gave Scamp a meaningful look.


    Im great at retreating, Scamp bragged. The only response from cknail was a nonmittal grunt.


    It was just starting to grow dark as cknail led his squad of hobgoblins out into the fields and towards the raiders camp. As before, there were groups of sentries posted all around the perimeter. However, now it was light out enough out that they wouldnt have much problem seeing. Still, the hobgoblins kept low to the ground and attempted to sneak up on the sentries. They moved with great care but only made it about halfway across the fields before they were discovered.


    The savages are attacking again! someone suddenly yelled at the top of their lungs. It was quickly followed by other shouts from deeper within the enemy camp.


    Surprisingly, cknail found their choice of words to be fitting. He was both a savage fighter and savagely good looking. Maybe he would show them mercy.


    Charge, tear the invaders apart and take all their possessions. You keep what you kill! cknail roared as he stood tall and pointed his de towards the sentries. On second thought, mercy took a lot of effort.


    Immediately, the hobgoblins rose and sprung into action. Half of them charged forward to attack the grossly outnumbered sentries, while the others drew their bows and began shooting arrows across the field.


    I get that hat! Twig yelled as he dashed forward.


    One of the sentries went down as an arrow caught him in the chest, and then the charging hobgoblins overran the other two. The mob of seven hobgoblins instantly surrounded their victims and pulled them down. There were pained screams as cknails minions ripped into the men with their ws, and then silence. Apparently, they had taken his order to tear them apart literally.


    By this time the rest of the raider camp hade alive. A dozen armed men were already running towards cknails minions, and there were more behind them.


    Slow them down, cknail ordered his archers as he pointed towards the raiders lead element.


    A small flock of arrows immediately took flight and flew towards the charging raiders. Most of them missed but they did slow the targets down. This gave cknail time to signal the retreat.


    Run, back to the forest. The humans are too many! he yelled.


    At hismand, the hobgoblins that were still looting the sentry post quickly started running away from the charging humans and back towards the archers. There was only about a dozen feet between the hobgoblins and pursuing humans now, but cknails minions managed to pull ahead a bit and keep their distance. They were quick on their feet and rather motivated.


    When the runners raced past cknails position they were joined in their retreat by the archers. All together, the entire group headed back to the hill. This scene was repeated by the other two hobgoblin squads led by Gob and Scamp. Fifty feet from the edge of the forest all three squads met and converged. Unfortunately, this meant that all the raiders converged as well. cknail looked over his shoulder to see dozens of armed thugs in hot pursuit. Why did humans have to be so big?


    Theyre chasing me! Scamp yelped as he ran up beside cknail.


    Theyre chasing all of us, cknail hissed back.


    Although cknail was beginning to doubt the wisdom of his own n, he couldnt just abandon it now.


    Turn and fight! cknail roared as he drew his sword.


    As they had been instructed earlier, the hobgoblins stopped running and turned to face their pursuers. They didnt seem very happy about it, though. It took mere seconds for the raiders to close the distance between them. The humans drew their weapons and roared in rage. The hobgoblins were silent and grim looking, however none of them fled. cknail had been very clear about what would happen to any cowards, and he was much harder to escape than a clueless blundering human.


    des shed through the air as the two sides formed a violent melee. Hobgoblins and humans hacked at each other and dodged blows aimed their way as they fought to survive and cut down their enemies. That discipline didntst long, though. Within a few seconds the first hobgoblin was cut down. He was soon joined by another, and then the others broke. Outnumbered and outmuscled, the hobgoblins stood no chance in a head to head confrontation, and they knew it. They dashed towards the forest, as another one of their number was cut down from behind.


    However, not every hobgoblin was running blindly. cknail kept fighting as he backed away from the humans. His de forced the raiders around him away, but he kept having to retreat in a hurry to avoid being surrounded. Raiders were pressing in at him from every side. It was only after most cknails minions had gained a fair bit of distance, that he ducked under a wild swing and began sprinting away at full speed. He didnt have to go far. They were at the edge of the forest now. In their haste to chase down their foes, the raiders had followed them all the way to the very edge of the greenery.


    The lead element of the raiders stepped into the bushes and under the shade cast by the trees of the forest. cknail lured them in closer. As he stepped around a tree trunk to avoid a sh aimed at his face, he sted the humans with his power. However, he didnt make them more afraid, instead he did the opposite. With his power he stifled their fear and emboldened the minds of the raiders. The writhing worms that formed their minds were drained of energy and kept calm.


    However, even while under cknails influence, the humans didnt lose all sense of caution. Like thest time they had pursued the hobgoblins, the raider stopped their counterattack at the edge of the forest. Only their lead elements followed the hobgoblins into the bushes, the rest were called back their leaders and came to stop. That was alright, though. cknail had been expecting it.


    As the ranks of enemy raiders came to halt and hobgoblins dashed behind bushes and trees, well over a hundred goblins rose from out of hiding. Their dirty green skin allowed them to camouge right in with the face of the hill that started right were the fields ended.


    Attack! Kill them from afar! Show them our power! cknail yelled as he leaned out from behind a tree. It was safe there.


    The goblins immediately sprang into action. Each and every one of them was carrying a loaded sling, and at cknailsmand they began to twirl them. Sharp whipping sounds rang out as the swarm of goblinsunched a barrage of rocks. The stony projectiles zipped through the air and mmed into the surprised raiders.


    Form up! Protect your heads! a raider sergeant yelled as he pulled another man back away from a bush.


    All the raiders could do was try to shield themselves. Waves of rocks were pummeling their ranks and one by one they began to fall. cknail didnt waste the chance to make their situation worse either. At hismand, the hobgoblins that had retreated to behind cover popped back out with bows in their hands. They began picking off targets among the raiders.


    This new assault was more than the humans could take. Their formation broke as raiders began to turn and run in a selfish attempt to save themselves. However, this didnt prevent more raiders from dropping as rocks smashed into their now exposed backs. The entire group quickly fell apart, leaving their dead and injured. While this was happening, Imp and Khita reached cknails side. Imp was apanied by two other hobgoblins that had been assigned to help him.


    Have we won? Khita asked as grinned excitedly.


    You havent done anything, cknail pointed out as he watched the enemy carefully.


    Should I join the battle now, warchief? Imp asked. He was carrying arge backpack that was full of equipment and supplies.


    Not yet, cknail replied. They were already winning and he knew it was important to hold something back, in case he needed a good surprise to counter something his enemy did. He had learned this lesson from watching Herad lead battles. Basically everything he knew about war he had learned from her.


    Suddenly, the retreating raiders stopped in their tracks. A new group of reinforcements had joined them and stiffened their spines. As cknail watched, the raiders parted to let one of the neers approach the front. It was a woman. She was protected by two men with shields who blocked the rocks and arrows that flew his way. The new arrival raised a hand, and there was a loud boom as a st of rippling force shot forth. The explosion rose into the air and knocked most of the iing rocks and arrows harmlessly aside.


    She was a mage! cknail had suspected that the raiders had one when he had seen the magelight during his attack on their camp. It looked like this was a serious magic wielder, abat mage. That wasnt good. cknail had seen what mages like Mahedium could do. They were dangerous beyond belief. Since magic was so expensive and hard to control, the raiders must have been holding the woman in reserve.


    Down below, the enemy mage raised her staff and pointed it at the hillside before her. The tip of the arcane weapon began to glow.


    Get down! cknail yelled as he grabbed Khita and pulled her down in front of himself.


    A column of me burst into being and rushed forward towards the forest. It hissed and roared as it flew through the air, and then there was a cataclysmic boom as it hit the earth. Everything shuddered. Dirt and bits of wood flew through the air all around cknail as he huddled down close to the earth. The smell of smoke and burnt flesh assaulted his nose. He looked up to see that the power of the st had torn a long scar across the hill. It was only about two dozen feet from his own position.


    Those goblins that werent frozen in shock were already screaming and fleeing off deeper in to the forest. Only a few of them had actually been killed or injured by the st, but they were cowards.


    Thats taught these skinny savages their ce! one of the raiders yelled triumphantly. Now lets drive these green freaks away and show them what humans are made of!


    The battered ranks of raiders roared their approval and began to charge forward again. Very few goblins were still throwing rocks, although several hobgoblins shot arrows at the advancing humans. The hobgoblins were braver than mere goblins, and smart enough to know that running would expose them and make themselves targets. However, a few stones and arrows wouldnt be enough to stop the human charge.


    Rot and ruin, what are we going to do now? Khita asked as stared at the approaching wave of human brutes. Thats some serious magecraft theyve got!


    Now you can use your magic! Return fire at the mage, cknail ordered Imp, who was huddled next to him.


    The hobgoblin mage nodded and stood up. His two followers quickly followed his example and pulled out tworge slings. There were already red crystals loaded in the weapons. Imp pulled a small metal wand and touched it to both mana stones. As they burst into mes, the two hobgoblins began to spin and aim their weapons. cknail had selected the pair for their skill with slings.


    There was a twang as the hobgoblins released their shots. The two crystals whistled and trailed mes as they flew up into the air. cknail held his breath as the ming orbs began to arc down toward the center of the raiders'' formation. What happened next would determine the course of the battle.

 Out of Darkness 8

    Out of Darkness 8


    Smoke billowed out from the shallow trench the enemy mages st had dug across the hillside. The haze made seeing difficult, but cknail peered past it as he observed the enemy. Around him, the goblins were in disarray but most of the hobgoblins were picking themselves off the ground or shooting at the humans that were now pushing their way through the bushes at the edge of the forest. Gob was leading the resistance down below. However, cknail was focused on therge formation of raiders that was staying out in the fields. That was where the enemy mage was, and where Imps magical projectiles were about tond. Even the mostplicated trap could work if you lured the enemy to exactly where you wanted him and then trapped him there.


    The enemy mage had already turned away from the goblins'' position and was issuing orders to the men around her. Another raider raised the rm, and the mage spun around and looked up. Two zing orbs were headed her way, and they left a tail of fire behind them as they fell.


    The mage hurriedly raised her hand up in a defensive gesture. She seemed to recognize that the small fireballs were dangerous. Another st of invisible power burst forth from her amulet, and there was a loud boom as the resulting explosion met the falling balls of fire and knocked them aside. One of the ming crystals was thrown safely off to the side. It hit the ground and exploded without hurting anyone. However, the other fireball was only nudged off-kilter a bit. It spiraled down and fell at the edge of the raiders formation, where it detonated. A zing sphere the size of a small home engulfed over a dozen men, and the force of its birth threw a dozen more raiders aside. Screams of shock and pain filled the air.


    Finally, a sessful test! Imp eximed happily as he smiled broadly and threw his hands up in excitement. Boom! Ive already learned so much. Look at them burn.


    Very nice, cknail replied as the mes reflected in his eyes. But you need to do it again. Most of them are still alive.


    cknail was reallying to like magic. It made everything so much easier, especially blowing people up.


    Yeah, do it again, and hit the mage this time. That bitch has iting, Khita added as she climbed to her feet. She had apparently been unhurt by the mages attack but was feeling resentful.


    Imp and his two assistants immediatelyunched another set of fireballs. Just like thest ones, the new projectiles soared towards the enemy formation. However, before they could hit, they were blocked by another st from the mages hand. Both the fireballs careened harmlessly off to the side. As cknail watched, the mage then turned and pointed the tip of her staff right in cknails direction. The hobgoblins eyes went wide and he tensed up.


    Dodge! cknail yelled as threw himself off to one side.


    He was just in time. mes shot forth from the end of the weapon and sted the hillside again. A wave of excruciating heat washed over cknail and he was sent rolling across the ground by the explosion. The air was knocked out of cknails lungs as he came to a sudden stop and his back mmed into the base of a tree. Pain red through his ribs and spine, and his head hit the ground hard. Dizzily, he blinked and looked around. Burning leaves were falling all around him. The ground was torn and broken. The st had dug a burning trench where he had been standing a few moments ago. Luckily, other than Imp and his assistants there hadnt been many goblins or hobgoblins nearby.


    Everything looked blurry as cknail tried to gather his thoughts. He sat up but didnt try to stand. His entire body hurt far too much for him to try and get up right now, maybe in a minute. He touched the side of his head and his fingers came away wet. He appeared to be bleeding. That wasnt good.


    From what cknail could see, he was alone now. Imp and his aides were missing or incinerated. No more fireballs were being thrown at the raiders, and they were charging into the forest unimpeded. cknail could hear the raiders cheering. The hobgoblins were being pushed back or had been spooked by the mages attack and were already running away. There was chaos as the humans pressed their advantage. In their enthusiasm, their orderly lines broke apart as they reached the trees and separated.


    It seemed like cknails n had failed. Stupid mages. cknail hated magic. It was unfair and impossible to predict. How was a hobgoblin supposed to kill a bunch of humans when they could blow up hillsides with magic fire? This was Imps fault, somehow. He should have been a better mage. Now it seemed like the only thing cknail could do was retreat and try to rebuild. He didnt see any way of turning this disaster around, not while that mage was alive. Maybe he could sneak backter  after he had healed a bit - and try to kill the mage?


    cknail closed his eyes for a second so he could rest them, and his other senses expanded, including his magical ones. They felt stronger than usual. Instantly, cknail could sense the minds of the people around him. They were mostly just tiny glimmers off in the endless dark, but they were there.


    Oh, right. He had Elixir; that would probably make him feel better. cknail opened his eyes and reached down to pull out his vial of Elixir. Without a thought, he downed the entire container in one gulp. For some reason it tasted a little off. Well, it was probably nothing.


    The familiar cleansing burn of Elixir surged throughout cknails body and he pulled himself to his feet. New strength was already building within him. Suddenly, cknail felt his mental sense expand again. The glimmers of fear all around him grew brighter and came into focus. He could feel both the minds of the humans and of the hobgoblins. They were very different. At the current moment, most the hobgoblins were more afraid than the humans, but at the same time they were capable of less depth in their fear.


    Ha, stupid humans, cknail mumbled to himself.


    Just as cknail was about to try and help the remaining hobgoblins organize their retreat, a sudden sensation burst into his mind. Cold terror stabbed its way through his skull and he gasped from the unexpected pain. Ugh, what was this? cknail couldnt figure out the source the pain. He stumbled as he tried to clear his mind. Wait, was the source outside of himself? cknail reached out and sensed a mind that was zing with terror. It was human and nearby.


    Steadying himself, cknail scanned the forest for signs of the source. It didnt feel that far away. Suddenly, he noticed a sh of red among the underbrush. For a second he didnt recognize it, but then he did. It was Khitas hair. The redhead was lying on the ground. The enemy mages st must have thrown her there. As cknail watched, she shivered and moved ever so slightly. Until this moment, he hadpletely forgotten that she had joined his war party and been near the st. He usually tuned her out.


    Grimacing in pain, cknail walked over to her. He didnt have much time. There were raiders searching the bush nearby. They were moving carefully but they would reach him in seconds. Khita turned and looked his way as he shuffled over.


    Hey, stupid. Stop being afraid, now! cknail told her. His brain still felt like it was freezing over. It was ufortable and obviously Khitas fault.


    It doesnt work that way, Khitaughed ruefully. I cant walk. My knee is all busted up and so is my arm. I cant even get up. Im going to die here.


    cknail stared down at her. He didnt know what to say to that. Goodbye, maybe?


    You need to leave me, cknail. Just promise me you will survive and get bloody vengeance for me, Khita told him as she groaned in pain. I want these fuckers to bleed.


    Youre terrified of dying, cknail pointed out. He could feel it. Why was she pretending she wasnt?


    So what! Just get out of here, Khita hissed at him.


    I cant leave you, cknail replied angrily. This headache was seriously slowing him down. Trying to run with it would be risky. Also, leaving her to die felt wrong. She was a part of his tribe, sort of.


    Go! Everyone leaves everyone eventually. Were all alone in the end. Even the bonds of family, gangs, and bands are justforting lies, Khita shot back as she clenched a fist angrily. I only joined Herads band and then your tribe because I wanted to go out with a bang. At least I seeded at that. Damn this bloody world! Im happy to leave it behind.


    This is one of those annoying rants about your brother, isnt it? cknail replied. Khita tended go on about his death when she got emotional.


    I thought you never paid attention to that! the redhead hissed as she red at cknail.


    I dont, but I have good hearing, and you never shut up about it.


    Leave already, you ungrateful bastard!


    Fine, stay here, cknail replied angrily as he turned to stomp away. It was insulting that she wanted to sacrifice herself for him, as if it gave her value. It was such a dumb human thing to do. In fact, another human had done it for him before, Saeter


    cknail hissed as new emotions warred within him. This headache was infuriating. The connection to Khita was much worse than the pain. He took a deep breath and tried to stifle Khitas fear. His power reached out and pressed down on her mind, but her inner turmoil didnt seize. cknails cold headache continued, so instead he tried something different. Instead of fighting the feeling, he embraced it. cknail immediately regretted this decision. He went stiff as terror such as he had never known tore through his mind. It hurt worse than being punched in the brain. Worse of all, it felt permanent, like he was being scarred. Was this what Khita was feeling? Was this what humans felt? It sucked. No wonder they were such weaklings.


    New sensations wed at cknails thoughts. He wanted it to stop! What was he doing? Stupid magic. He staggered again as he tried to reorient himself. Suddenly, he remembered something. There were raiders approaching. He felt them. Two of them had spotted him and were marching through the bushes toward him. cknails eyes narrowed. They were the problem. They wanted to take what was his. As annoying as she was, Khita was his. cknail growled, and the deep menacing sound echoed out into the forest. He red his Elixir and the magic washed away his confusion. Suddenly everything was so clear. He had purpose and power.


    Wait, somethings off about his hob, one of the raiders stuttered. He was a big man but he suddenly looked nervous and unsure of himself.


    The other raider hesitated and looked at hispanion. He must have sensed that something was wrong as well.


    Its just a savage, he replied. It was supposed to have been a reassuringment but the man just sounded uncertain.


    Both the raiders had their weapons drawn and were keeping an eye on cknail, but that didnt save them. The furiously invigorated hobgoblin lunged forward with startling speed and attacked with all the power of his rage. He didnt bother with drawing his sword. He ducked under the mans weapon and then reached up to tear his throat out with his ws. There was a crunching noise and blood sprayed from the wound, but cknail was already turning to face the other man. With a panicked yelp, the raider swung at cknail, but the hobgoblin sidestepped the blow and jumped on his opponent. They fell together and cknailnded on top of the mans chest. There were screams as cknails ws started ripping into flesh, and then silence when cknail pushed the mans iling hands away and took a bite out of the side of his exposed neck. The hobgoblin spat bits of flesh away and then looked around for more raiders. The taste of blood filled his mouth and it dribbled down his chin.


    Ice and fire churned within cknails body. The Elixir burned through his blood as cold waves of alien terror washed over him. He couldnt stand still. The pain was a minor thing now. He barely felt it. It had been numbed by the energy within him, and that wanted out. cknail screamed in rage. The chilling predatory sound echoed through the forest as he was propelled by momentum forward through the bushes. He had failed to save Saeter and Herad. Werrick had taken them. cknail would never see or learn from them ever again, but he wasnt going to lose anyone else, not even a useless person like Khita. All of Werricks men had to die. He could think of nothing else.


    Three more swordsmen rushed forward to attack cknail from behind, but he sensed theming. He jumped away from the raiders and drew his own de. As one of the men lunged and shed at him, cknail twisted out of the way and sliced the mans hand. He yelped and dropped his weapon. The second raiders de zoomed toward cknails chest. He stepped into the blow and blocked it with his own sword. There was a metallic crack as the des met. A quick shove then knocked the man off bnce, and cknail stabbed him in the gut. The third enemy backed off and was quickly reinforced by two other men who had noticed all the activity.


    cknail eyed his opponents as they watched him in turn. They were prey and the world was his trap. cknail grinned as he took a moment to reach out with his power and mp down on some of the minds he felt. There was a rustling from the bushes off to one side, and then three arrows zipped out and shot towards the raiders. Two of the whirring projectiles hit. One mmed into a raiders arm and the other sank into a mans chest.


    Ah, shit, the raider who had been shot in the arm cursed as he dropped his weapon and cradled his injury.


    There were still some hobgoblins hanging back to see what unfolded. Themotion cknail was causing was drawing them to him even as it caught the attention of the raiders as well. They had only needed a little encouragement in order to get over their caution and join the fray. Suppress one instinct and another would rise to take its ce, bloodlust.


    As the raider with the arrow in his chest toppled over backward, cknail attacked. He charged in and swung at the uninjured raider. The man grunted and raised his de to block the blow, but cknail was already spinning away. The hobgoblin lunged sideways and stabbed the raider with the injured arm. His de cut into the man''s side and bit deep beforeing free.


    You bloody bastard! thest raider cursed as he backed away from cknail.


    The enraged hobgoblin met his gaze and growled. The raider quickly took another step back, and that was when an arrow pierced his thigh. As the man stumbled, cknail lunged forward and sliced his throat open. There was a thud as the body hit the ground, and cknail looked over his shoulder to see three hobgoblins with bows standing next to a tree. cknail grunted, turned away from them, and pressed on. Killing these grunts wasnt good enough. He needed to eliminate the real threat, the mage. Only then would he be safe and satiated. Only then would the pain end.


    The edge of the foresty just ahead, and cknail could sense what was beyond it. He picked up speed. As he ran, he gathered his power. The burning magic of the elixir continued to boil his blood as icy rage seeped into his bones. Behind him, terror reigned. The hobgoblins that had been in retreat were now counter attacking the disorganized and stunned humans. Arrows flew and green figures leapt out of bushes upon men driven mad by fear. cknails power was spread all throughout the trees and it pressed down upon the minds on his enemies, but it wasnt enough. Raw alien emotion rushed through cknail, subsuming everything but his uncontroble drive tosh out at his enemies, the people that hurt him, the people he feared.


    There was a whipping noise and an explosion of leaves as cknail burst out the bushes and into the clearing. Like a lightning bolt, he smashed into the force of raiders that were waiting there. He let loose a scream of rage and pushed out as much magic as he could. The power distorted the air around him. It rolled forth like an unrelenting wave of steam and enveloped everyone nearby. With it came terror and horror.

 Out of Darkness 9

    Out of Darkness 9


    Magic radiated out from cknail as he charged out of the forest. The dread power writhed like a frenzied snake andshed out at the minds of the thirty or so raiders before him. They had been ready for an attack but not for what confronted them now. With startling speed, cknail crossed the ground between him and the raiders. He snarled as he swung his de and leapt upon the first human that dared to stand in his way.


    A raider cursed as cknail brutally shed the face of his first victim. By all that is divine, what is this thing! Its not natural!


    Oh, gods. Its a demon from the deepest hells! another man shouted as he flinched away from the violence.


    Enemies that should have stood their ground stumbled and jerked away from the monster in their midst. A haze of raw magic streamed from cknails skin, distorting peoples vision, even as terror twisted their perceptions and dulled their wits. cknails de shed as he cut down everyone near him. He twisted and danced around the sluggish counterattacks of his enemies. There were over two dozen raiders facing cknail, but none of them had even managed tond a blow on him yet.


    cknail flowed and fought with the savage abandon of Herad. Instinctively, he copied her style as best he could. Sword fighting was one of the many things cknail had been taught by Saeter, but he had also learned a thing or two from his old chieftain. She had been a Vessel, the fiercest fighter he had ever seen, and a ruthless leader worthy of his reverence.


    Dont retreat! Surround the beast and dont let it slip away, a furious sergeant screamed.


    Several raiders were too shocked or afraid to attack. They focused on protecting themselves and stood their ground or stepped back away from cknail when he advanced. This gave him space to maneuver and blocked other raiders from joining the fight. cknail ruthlessly used this advantage. He dodged to the side of an attack and then sliced the leg of a man to his left. The raider fell but was almost instantly reced by another. This didnt faze cknail. The odds didnt matter. There was only the fight and the blood.


    His master had believed in things. cknail had never really understood that until now. The liquid ice that was churning within him was bringing new thoughts with it. He felt bloated, but suddenly he knew what it was to be carried along by something greater than himself. Vengeance was personal. Bloodthirst was personal, but this wasnt about him. He was going to kill these raiders because they were in the way of what he was building. He was part of something greater. Saeter would have approved.


    You useless toads, kill it! someone screamed.


    Annoyed, cknail took a moment to look for the speaker. As their eyes met, cknails magic ripped into the mans mind. There was a gasp as the raiders eyes went wide. He then convulsed and copsed.


    A sword sliced toward cknails side, but he easily parried the blow and then struck back. As the attacker fell, the hobgoblin vaulted over his body and pressed forward toward his goal. At the back of the squad of raiders was the enemy mage. She was staring at cknail and clenching her protective amulet tight.


    Someone cursed as cknail cut another raider down. Gods above, what is this thing?


    It must be a mutant, cut it down! the mage ordered her minions.


    There was an annoyed grunt from a bulky bandit with long ck hair beside her. He had engaged cknail earlier but had taken a sh across his arm and been forced to retreat. Youre our magic expert, you deal with it!


    Anything strong enough to hurt it would ssh back on us, but dont worry. Im sure you can take it down, the mage replied. She herself was hanging back far away from the action.


    At themand of their leader, several fresh raiders stepped forward to attack. cknail had already killed or disabled seven enemies, and wounded several more, but there were still over a dozen left, and the mage was keeping out of reach. Exhaustion was also finally starting to set in. cknails frantic pace was pushing him to his limit. The power within hadnt diminished, but it felt like his body was starting to rebel and go numb.


    Two raiders moved to attack cknail from opposite sides at the same time. He stepped forward to block one blow as he twisted out of the way of the other, but he didnt quite manage it. The de grazed his side and drew blood. It wasnt a serious wound so cknail ignored it and kept fighting. He couldnt even feel the wound beneath his pulsing rage.


    cknail hissed as heunched a flurry of blows. Die humans. All the Wolfs men will die.


    A shorter raider jerked back away from cknail when he spoke. The thing can talk!


    Get out of the way, you coward! the sergeant yelled as he pushed his way past the other raider. He was a big man with a scar under his left eye and a bit of flesh missing from the tip of his nose.


    cknail was forced back when the ugly man took a swing at him. He had to scramble to catch his bnce and avoid stumbling into an enemy. Reassured by their sergeant, other raiders were pressing in closer. cknail hissed and took a few swings at them to keep them away. He had lost his momentum and was now on the defensive. If he didnt regain it then he would be overwhelmed.


    Suddenly, a flock of arrows flew out of the forest and hit the edge of the raider formation. Several men screamed and fell as the projectiles drew blood or sank into soft flesh. In the nick of time, cknails minions hade to his aid. It seemed like the hobgoblins had retaken control of the forest and were regrouping, although they hadnt worked up the courage or the numbers to rush to cknails side yet.


    cknail dodged to the side of a swing by a distracted raider, and sent a st of fear forward. As the magic pulse washed over them, the raiders in front of cknail froze or jumped back. One raider fell and clenched his chest before beginning to spasm on the ground.


    Ignoring the wounded and the weak, cknail surged forward through the now open path before him with supernatural speed. He dodged around a surprised swordsman and then the mage stood before him. She was a tall woman with short blonde hair, and she had a hawkish look to her face because of her sharp nose and chin. Unlike most the other raiders, she was dressed in recognizable armor including a metal cap and breastte. As cknail closed in, her face went white and her eyes widened in fear. Hurriedly, she raised a hand and thrust forth her amulet at the hobgoblin. cknail immediately reacted. He dove to the side and through the legs of a surprised raider, just as the wave of force exploded around him. Raiders were thrown backward as the mages spell hit her allies.


    Low to the ground, cknail weathered the st. A foot hit him in the back as a raider flew past him, but cknail grimaced and prepared himself. He flipped over and crouched on all fours. When the magic died down and there were no raiders still standing near him, cknail uncoiled andunched himself at the mage again. The woman yelped and swung her amulet around, but cknail caught her arm and pushed it up so that the st was sent harmlessly up into the sky. A loud boom shook the air.


    Youre mine! cknail growled as dust blew all around him.


    Monster! the mage gibbered.


    She dropped her staff as she tried to pull her arm free, but cknail held it firm. He growled as their eye met and the woman froze in terror. This gave cknail the chance to pull her closer and smash the back of her head with the pommel of his sword. There was a thud and she slid bonelessly to the ground.


    Ha, I win! No one can defeat me. Im magic, cknail crowed as he stood over her unconscious body. Mages were magic too but that wasnt important right now.


    The hobgoblins reflection was interrupted by the sound of someone yelling. Quick, get the creature before he finishes her off!


    cknail looked over to see several humans with wicked looking des getting ready to attack him. Oh, right. Those guys. He had somehow forgotten about them. His head felt funny.


    Now that the mage was down, cknail still had to deal with the dozen raiders that had picked themselves off the ground or were still standing. The hulking humans had him surrounded. Bereft of other options, cknail turned to face the nearest one and growled menacingly. The low throaty sound passed escaped past his teeth and out into the air. The raiders flinched. It had waned a little, but magic was still flowing through cknails body. However, the mysterious chill energy had begun to make him lightheaded. Wait, had he just charged the enemy alone? That didnt sound like something he would do. Now wasnt the time to question himself, though. He needed to keep killing.


    cknail steadied himself and he shifted his grip on his sword as he brought it up into an aggressive position. The raiders spread out to surround him. A hint of fatigue began to sap cknails strength. Now that he had lost his momentum he didnt feel quite so unstoppable. A tall raider with a red beard signaled to his fellows with a hand gesture and stepped forward. The other raiders advanced as well. Suddenly concerned, cknail looked for a way to escape their confinement. He wasnt de proof.


    That was when a small fireball hit the ground off to one side. There was heavy thud as itnded and everyone looked over to see what it was. A momentter, the ming crystal exploded. A wave of heat washed over cknail and the raiders. They all shielded their eyes and braced themselves, but the explosion wasnt close enough to hurt any of them. However, it definitely got their attention.


    Ya, fuck this! Im getting out of here, a shorter raider with an axe cursed. I dont know what in damnation is going on here, but this ce is crazy, and I dont want to die fighting this thing.


    The man then threw his axe aside and began sprinting away. There was a moment of hesitation, and then was soon followed by the rest of hispanions. As cknail watched, the raiders fled away from the forest. He was soon left standing alone at the edge of the field, except for the bodies of the fallen.


    Huh, I win for real this time, he remarked to himself. He hadnt meant to sound surprised but he had. He also felt kind of dizzy.


    A rustling noise drew cknails attention, and he looked over to see the bushes at the edge of the forest shake. He hoped it wasnt a troll. It had been one of those days. Much to cknails relief, it wasnt a troll. Several hobgoblins stepped out onto the fields and began walking over toward him. All of them looked a little worse for wear. Their mismatched clothes were dirty and most of them had new cuts and bruises. Despite that, they looked proud of themselves and were carrying new weapons. It seemed like they had taken the time to loot some of the fallen raiders. One of the hobgoblins was even carrying a decapitated human head. He had it gripped by the hair and its mouth was hanging open as it dripped blood.


    At the head of the group was Gob. cknail also noticed Herah, Imp, and Scamp among them. When the hobgoblins reached his side, they immediately dropped to their knees and began prostrating themselves. cknail watched numbly as they waved their hands up and down repetitively. They looked stupid.


    Whats this now? he asked his collected minions.


    Gob was the one to immediately reply. Bless us with your presence, great one. You are as a god!


    You defeated the humans almost all by yourself! You charged them and struck down their maker of magics. They fled before you! Herah added as her eyes shone with wonder. She crawled forward to hug cknail''s leg but he shook her off.


    Yes, I did do that cknail replied thoughtfully.


    What would have Herad have thought of his actions? It was almost something she would have done. Saeter would have thought it was moronic, and cknail agreed. So why had he done it? He could have died a dozen times or more. Whatever his motivations, it didnt change the fact that his head hurt a lot. Ouch.


    The hobgoblins continued their bowing and adoration. cknail found it super annoying. He usually enjoyed beingplimented and praised, but this naked worship was sort of creepy. It was also a waste of precious time, and it was distracting him when he was trying to think. He had a nagging feeling that there were important things he was forgetting.


    Get up! There are things that need done still, cknail ordered his minions. They could worship his amazingnesster, on their own time.


    The enemy still had some forces left. The survivors from the battle would rejoin the raiders that had been left behind at their camp. cknail forgot the name of the raiders'' leader, but he might also still be alive. If so, then there might be another battle in the near future. He had to round up the rest of his forces before they dispersed.


    Whatever you wish, it shall be done! Gob eximed as all the hobgoblins got up.


    Instead of answering right away, cknail took a few more moments to continue thinking. There was also the situation with Shelter. He had to make sure the talk with them went well. They needed to know that they owed him for saving them. They owed him a lot. Also, um he should check on Khita. For some reason he had just charged a small army to keep her alive, so he would feel really stupid if she was lying dead back there in the forest.


    I want cknail began to reply before wavering and stopping. What did he want again?


    His tongue felt thick and stiff all of a sudden. He blinked at Gob, who stared back expectantly.


    Make sure Khita gets help, cknail managed to say.


    The power of the Elixir suddenly stopped. cknail felt his body weaken as the fire within went out. Stabs of pain sliced through his body and he stumbled. The chill upying his mind disappeared as well. He had a moment of rity, and then his legs buckled and he began to fall over backward. The sky overhead was very blue. cknail stared at it until darkness rushed in to fill his vision. A secondter, he hit the ground. There was a soft thud, but cknail didnt feel a thing. He was already unconscious.


    There was something sharp digging into the middle of his spine. Since his back was already sore in several ces, he decided to do something about it. cknail opened his eyes, shifted his posture, and then grunted in satisfaction. With that done, he remembered who he was and everything that had happened. It was a lot to take in at once.


    Quickly, cknail sat up and looked around. The movement hurt more than a little and a wave of dizziness washed over him, but that wasnt important. What had happened to him while he had been out? It looked like someone had carried him back to the forward base. He wasying on a stretcher inside the makeshift structure under the tree, and he wasnt alone. Scamp was sitting on the ground off to one side. The stupid hobgoblin was napping as he leaned back against a wall.


    Wake up, you dumb slug! cknail yelled.


    Jerkily, Scamp sat up and his now open eyes focused on cknail. I wasnt asleep. I was listening for danger, to keep you safe, boss.


    How long have I been out and where are the others?


    It has only been an hour or so. Some of the tribe are outside resting, or watching the enemy. Gob is out tracking down a lot of the tribe. Some cowardly hobgoblins fled into the forest, but not me! Im brave and loyal, boss.


    cknail grunted. Scamp had probably been watching from a safe distance or something. What are the raiders doing?


    The humans that you have yet to kill have all gone back to their camp. It looks like they are packing up to flee away from your territory!


    A bit of cknails unease vanished upon hearing that. It sounded like nothing catastrophic had gone wrong while he was asleep. If the raiders were running then he had time to rest. Everything else could wait a bit. Of course, he still didnt like the idea of being weak or unconscious near other hobgoblins. The very idea made his skin crawl. He was simply going to have to hope that hed trained them sufficiently, and that they hated each other more than him.


    What happened to Khita?


    She is alive, boss. We sent her to Shelter.


    Oh, good, cknail replied. He definitely didnt want to be stuck in the same room with her as they both recovered. That would be terrible.


    With all the pressing matters dealt with, cknail took a few moments to examine his own thoughts. He felt like himself again, mostly. He still felt light headed, but there were no more alien emotions or cold forces rushing through his mind, which was good. He had been doing some crazy shittely. That was going to stop right now. He had minions for a reason.


    A yawn suddenly escaped from cknails mouth. He still felt tired and sore. The dizziness was just getting worse, so he decided to rest for a while more.


    Wake me up if anything important happens, cknail muttered as hey back down and swiftly fell asleep. His tribe couldnt do anything without him

 Out of Darkness 10

    Out of Darkness 10


    When cknail awoke again, it was the morning and he felt much better. Getting into another fight anytime soon would be a bad idea, but he could walk around. The first thing he did was carefully push Herahs sleeping form out of the way and leave the makeshift shack. The female hobgoblin had cuddled up to him in the middle of the night. cknail shuddered at the thought of her getting so close to him while he was helpless. She was a hobgoblin so she couldnt be trusted. The second thing he did was track down Gob. It wasnt very hard. He was standing right outside the shelter, and it looked like he was standing guard. Obviously, he hadnt done a very good job since Herah had managed to get in.


    After a few minutes of praising everything about cknail, it didnt take long for Gob to fill his chieftain in on everything that had happened. The raiders had packed up and left. There were scouts following their tracks and keeping an eye on them. cknail decided that they could wait, so he rounded up an honor guard of hobgoblins and headed for Shelter. He had them pick out some new  or at least sort of clean  clothes. Most the hobgoblins already had some that they had looted, which annoyed cknail. He had missed his chance to im some trophies for himself. cknail was willing to bet that all the good loot had already been taken and squirreled away. Stupid useless minions, as the leader he was supposed to get the best pickings. He had done most the work!


    Once the hobgoblins were dressed up in mismatched but mostly whole clothes, cknail led the way to Shelter. He wanted to impress his new friends there and get them used to seeing hobgoblins. The gates didnt immediately open upon their arrival. cknail could hear an argument from the other side of the wall. It went on for several minutes before the gates swung open and Tannin stepped out.


    cknail greeted him with a cheerful smile and a wave. Hello there!


    Tannin stared at them unsurely for several seconds before responding. His gaze lingered over the hobgoblins standing beside cknail. Greetings. I see youve done as you said you would, and have gotten rid of Orvit and his mob of scum.


    Who? cknail asked in confusion as he titled his head to the side and squinted.


    The leader of the bandits you just fought.


    Oh, ya. That guy. Hes dead. cknail had no idea if that was true, but it wasnt important. He had forgotten the stupid human-face had existed until now.


    So, what are you here for? Tannin asked.


    I came to see that youre all right. Youre my friends, right? Thats a normal thing for someone to do for their friend.


    It took Tannin a few moments toe up with a reply to this. He stroked his grey beard thoughtfully. Hmm, yes. Geralhd assures me that you make a much better friend than enemy.


    Im great as both! Its just that my enemies dontst long.


    Right so anyway, none of yourpanions from before have any wounds they wont be able to walk off, except for young Khita. Thatss should pull through, though. Shes a fighter.


    Good then I can go talk to them.


    Um, I can send someone to bring Geralhd here


    cknail could see where this was headed, so he quickly cut the man off. I feel like going inside Shelter to see them.


    Why? What difference does it make to you? This is as good a ce as any for a brief talk, Tannin replied as he grimaced. He was obviously reluctant to let the hobgoblins inside his vige.


    You said I could. I just fought a battle for you, cknail hissed as he stared into Tannins eyes. Now, I want to sit down and have some tea, but not the bitter kind. The sweet stuff is better. Snacks would also be nice. Im kind of a hero.


    I want tea too, one of hobgoblin guards muttered. He shut up when cknail threw him a angry look. Guards werent supposed to talk.


    Tannin sighed in defeat. You will get your tea and snacks.


    Thanks, friend! cknail eximed happily as he stepped forward and put his hand on the mans shoulder in a friendly gesture. Tannin managed not to flinch, which impressed cknail.


    Since he didnt have much of choice, the vige elder led the hobgoblins through the gate and inside Shelter. The guards there were all armed and nervous looking, but after a nod from Tannin, they let cknails group inside withoutment.


    My people are a bit jumpy right at the moment, because of the fighting and such. Just try to behave yourselves, Tannin exined as they walked onto the main street.


    At first there was no one in sight, but then two dozen armed militia stormed out of side street and cut them off. There was a bald man with arge gut leading the group. He threw cknail a horrified look and then turned to Tannin. What are you doing? Have you lost your mind, old man! How could you bring those monsters here?


    Tannin groaned and moved to confront the neers, but cknail acted first. He quickly hopped forward and addressed the leader of the group. Im here because I saved your vige from the bad men, with my horde of murderous monsters, because Im a nice guy who doesnt have any reason to dislike you, yet.


    Was that a threat? Im not an idiot. I know a threat when I hear it!


    Then why did you ask? Humans could be very confusing.


    Shut up. Your little pack isnt here, though. Is it? We could deal with you right now! the fat man shot back. He was probably trying to sound tough, but cknail wasnt impressed. He had met scarier spine toads.


    Silly human. Killing me wont get rid of my minions. You want to be friends with me because I keep the others in line, Laytin.


    Uh, how do you know my name? the man asked as cknails remark caught him off guard.


    cknail wiggled his fingers dramatically. The wind and the shadows tell me many things. There are ears everywhere! The truth was hed heard someone say the mans name a second ago when they had been marching over. It had been quiet, but cknail had very good hearing.


    Laytin stuttered for a moment, but cknail ignored him. The hobgoblin turned to Tannin instead. Lets go. Im done talking to this person. If he gets in my way I will just kill him and all the people stupid enough to follow him.


    The vige elder nodded and quickly led the hobgoblins away from the irate militia. There were no more interruptions - probably because all the vigers went out of their way to steer clear of the hobgoblins  so they soon reached their destination, Tannins home. cknail was ushered inside, sat down at the table, and given a cup of tea. It was even the sweet stuff.


    Geralhd arrived soon after that. cknail, its great to see you! I was dreading the thought of you disappearing into the forest again for who knows how long.


    After a happy greeting, the pair talked about the battle and what had happened. Tannin chimed in a few time as well. cknail spent quite a while going over everything he had done, and proudly describing the dozens of raiders he had personally in. Unfortunately, he got the impression that they didnt quite believe him, especially about dodging the magic fire and taking down the mage. Humans could be so silly.


    Well, Im sure you came here to do more than brag about your heroic exploits, Geralhd guessed when cknail finished his story.


    Yes cknail replied as he began trying to remember what he had wanted to talk about. Oh, right.


    I didnt see any goblins around. Are you still using them to dig in the ground?


    Yes, we are. The fighting scared the critters, thats all. Ive heard some muttering about them being spies for you, but no one with themon sense the gods gave simpletons thinks the goblins are smart enough for that, and they have been so useful for our nting that no one is seriously considering getting rid of them. They can be a handful and hard to keep on track, but no one wants to go back to doing all the nting and weeding ourselves.


    Good, do you want more? I have too many of the pests sitting around and not working.


    Were good for now. I swear that there are more goblins every time I look.


    He was probably right. cknail had noticed that the prospect of food and a safe ce to sleep tended to attract wild goblins. The pests seemed to have their own ways of spreading information.


    Is there anything else you want from us? Tannin asked the hobgoblin.


    Some of my minions will being to trade. You need to let them in.


    What do you have that you think we want?


    We can trade food. We hunt a lot and you grow things. We also have the tools we imed from the raiders. I know you need steel.


    You have a good point there. I cant deny it. Our stock of good metal has been diminishing thesest few years, and we could always use more venison. What would you want in return for this?


    cknail sat up and met Tannins gaze. I want good human food, especially cheese. I get upset if I go without cheese for too long, and you wouldnt like me when Im upset.


    Huh, well Im sure we can work something out there.


    I also will need some humans to teach my minions things, like how to make cheese or cooking. You have a lot of things that make life easier and I want those. Work sucks.


    Again, that seems reasonable, and youre not really giving us much of a choice, are you? You seem to have a small army out there in the Green.


    cknail shrugged. Im not making you do anything. Were friends, and its up to you if we stay that way. He had a feeling that Tannin would do as he was asked.


    Thats a two way street. Ill make sure everyone in the vige knows to treat you and yours respectfully, but you have to make sure your people dont start anything. Hobgoblins arent exactly known for their good behavior.


    I promise. None of my minions would dare to hurt a friend of mine. I wouldnt like it.


    Then I think this will be a productive rtionship, Tannin said as he extended a hand.


    cknail grabbed it and they shook hands. Tannin hadrge hands and a powerful grip that kind of hurt. After that, cknail said goodbye and he and Geralhd walked back out into the street.


    As soon as they were out of range of anyone trying to overhear them, Geralhd leaned close and whispered to cknail. You were talking like you were nning on sticking around this area for a while. I could have sworn that we had all agreed to leave at the first opportunity.


    Oh, ya... cknail had forgotten about that. He had told Geralhd and the others that he would guide them south.


    And we will leave soon, but we cant go right now, cknail quickly exined. I need to rest, and we have wounded, like Khita. We cant go anywhere without her  she is one of us! - and she might take a while to heal.


    It was almost a shame that cknail couldnt just leave with Geralhd right now. The thought of leaving Khita behind greatly amused him. She would be stranded in the vige with all the people that annoyed her and have no way of ever catching up with them. Tempting, but cknail wasnt going to ruin all his ns just for that.


    I guess thats true. We do need a bit of time to rest and recuperate from the cost of the fighting.


    Yes, we do! But dont worry. We will be going back south soon enough. I want to stay out here even less than you.


    Ha, I doubt that! Gods, Geralhd replied mirthfully. I cant wait to get back to thefortable joys of civilization. It has been so long since I tasted good wine or took a nice perfumed bath. I wasnt made for this rough and tumble life.


    Ya, and the food out here is terrible. I want spicy meat pies and candied fruit, cknail agreed. That was certainly one of the reasons he wanted to get back, but not the main one.


    Roast pork in honey sauce is what I crave, Geralhd whispered passionately as he closed in his eyes for a second.


    Now that Geralhd had been reassured that his groups guide wasnt going rogue, cknail was able to say his goodbyes and leave. His hobgoblin minions followed him as he left the vige of Shelter and headed back to the goblin encampment within the woods. Instead of walking through the gates though, cknail veered off the path and climbed a hill at the edge of the settlement. When he reached the top, cknail looked down over the valley.


    Go get Gob and bring him here, he instructed one of his minions. The hobgoblin immediately nodded and did as he was told.


    The bushes behind cknail rustled as he looked down at the settlement he had created. It had been nothing more than a pile or rock before his conquest. Now it was so much more than that. The long wooden wall surrounded a dozen buildings. Half of those were longhouses that held almost fifty goblins each. Most the buildings were made of woven bark and bent saplings but there was a new one under construction that was being made from bricks. Below, smoke was rising into the air from several fires. Most were for smoking meat or cooking, but thergest column of smoke wasing from the source of the bricks. It was a huge furnace that that Ferar had built. The lumpy y structure dwarfed even thest furnace that the goblin had made. It was taller than a hobgoblin and quite impressive looking.


    cknail scowled. Everything was going well, so he should be happy. However, the strange power that had overtaken him during the battle had left a mark after all. He couldnt deny it. Most of the time he feltpletely normal and he could forget all about that annoying incident, but sometimes strange thoughts slipped into his head. All of a sudden it would be like he was seeing something from apletely new point of view. The sudden shift was disorienting, like seeing movement out of the corner of his eye, and it broke his usual focus with useless thoughts of what could be.


    With new eyes, cknail studied his creation. Before his fight with the raiders, he had simply seen the encampment as a collection of tools for his use. Everything had a simple purpose. To fight Werrick, he needed an army, which meant he needed humans. However, humans were scatter-brained and reluctant to work for him, so he needed other hobgoblins to help him keep control. The settlement below him had simply been a ce for him to gather up hobgoblin minions and train them in pursuit of his vengeance against the Wolf, but now he saw more of its looming potential.


    The goblin encampment was more than a sum of its parts and it had taken on a life of its own. What happened here would ripple out and affect all of the North. cknail snarled and scratched his nose. It was a bother, but he was going to have to make sure his actions here didnt end up causing too much destruction and chaos. Normally, he wouldnt care, but he knew that Saeter wouldnt have approved of such things. cknails master had loved the North and the people that lived there, in his own way. He hadnt shied away from violence but hed greatly disapproved of the destruction of cities and unnecessary killing. cknail even understood why, kind of. Too much killing made people too afraid to make nice and tasty things. cknail liked having other people make him tasty things.


    The hobgoblin chieftains thoughts were interrupted by the arrival of Gob. He stepped out of the bushes and walked over to cknails side. What do youmand, great warchief?


    cknails eyes narrowed and he turned to stare at the forest behind him. Now we deal with what is left of the intruders. They cannot be allowed to return to thends of men.


    Gob smiled and licked his lips. We will hunt them through the trees?


    Yes, gather up all the hobgoblins you can. It will take many days for the humans to escape the Green. We will stalk them until they grow weary and break. Not a single man will live to tell others of us.


    Your words shall be done, Gob replied with obvious excitement before bowing and hurrying back down to fulfill his orders.


    When he was gone, cknail snorted and shook his head to clear all the clutter. He was doing way too much thinking. It was annoying and actually a bit painful, so he was going to stop and have fun instead.


    The hobgoblin chieftain smiled and turned to address the hobgoblin guards that were standing behind him. Lets go hunt and kill a bunch of people. They might have things we want.


    The simple life was the best. Soon, cknail would make his move South, and the minor scuffle at Shelter would be nothingpared to the terror he would unleash upon the Wolf and his unsuspecting servants. They had no idea what wasing for them, no one did. Soon, blood would pay for blood, and Saeter would be avenged. He would make Herad proud.

 Interlude: The Hoarding of Power

    Interlude: The Hoarding of Power


    The scribbling sound of an ink-stained feather-pen sliding rapidly over paper filled the small room. It was asionally interrupted by a plop, as the writing instrument was quickly and methodically dunked in an ink vial. That swiftly moving pen was being gripped by the hand of a bald man with a long white beard. He was in turn seated at a grand wooden desk, which was covered in stacks of paper. The old man was wearing ornate red robes and there was a grim but dedicated look on his face as he worked.


    It was gettingte and very little light wasing in through the windows, so the small room was lit by two delicate lookingmps. One was hanging from a wall and the other was sitting on the desk. Both of them were made from delicate twisted metal and powered by a mana crystal. The pure white light that shone out of them revealed an impressive looking chamber. Red tapestries emzoned with a stylistic eye hung on the walls.


    The man continued his work for several minutes until he was interrupted by the sound of the rooms single door opening. He looked up and scowled as a pair of younger men stepped into the room. Both of them stood stiffly and were dressed in red militaristic uniforms, but one was taller and took the lead.


    You asked to see us, master, he said as he and hispanion gave the man behind the desk a quick bow.


    The bearded man stared at them silently for several seconds. When he replied, he didnt sound happy and he got right to the point. Captain, we have recently received several concerning reports from various merchant houses we are in contact with. They all hint at the presence of a rogue mage in the North with ess to far more thaumaturgical knowledge than he should have. This is uneptable. You are to take a guild task force north and deal with the situation yourself.


    The mage guard captain nodded deferentially as he stood at attention. How reliable is the information? The sources seems suspect to me. The merchant houses have never been our strongest supporters. They would sell anything given the chance.


    The man behind the desk huffed disdainfully, but he didnt seem annoyed by the question. True, the fact that several different sources have coborated the information could be seen as verification of its authenticity, but it is also more than slightly suspicious. It seems likely that our ever-so-helpful informants are working together to feed this information to us. Regardless, investigating this situation is in our interest. The merchants are too powerful to ignore and catching rogues is our greatest priority. Something must be happening here and we need to know what.


    Why would the merchants want to work together to feed us information? The coin grabbers allpete with each other, the second mage guard asked in confusion.


    This earned him a re from the guild master. Unnecessary information. Regardless, it wouldnt be all of them. There is a certain group of merchants that work together to further their interests. The guild has been watching them, but that doesnt concern you. Simply do as you have been instructed.


    Yes, master! the lead mage guard quickly responded. Do you have rmendations or instructions that wont be in the official briefing?


    Why else would I have called you here? the guild master said as he held out a handful of papers. The lead man took them and quickly looked them over.


    Daggerpoint? Thats way up in thewlessnds! Unless we bring a full war party or join arge caravan even getting there will be difficult.


    Exactly, and we might not be the only guild that this information has reached. What we have heard suggests that this rogue may have stolen some rather advanced techniques. Our guild is very interested in knowing exactly how true this is.


    Ah, and you want us to make sure that our guild learns exactly what techniques this rogue has acquired.


    Yes, and since the North is an uncivilized ce with no current rulers and few witnesses, it is also your job to make sure that none of the other guilds prevent this from happening, the guild master exined as he gave his subordinate a meaningful look.


    The mage guard captain nodded again. I understand. We will leave in the morning.


    Good, it seems that you do understand. It goes without saying that you will be rewarded greatly if you return bearing useful knowledge.


    Yes, master. We will not fail you or this guild. Magic is power and magic is truth!


    See that you dont. I am authorizing you to requisition whatever you think you need. Take as many soldiers, equipment, and battles mages as you think suitable. The North can be quite dangerous and this rogue may not go down without a fight. n for extended magicalbat but dont be too obvious about it. This is an operation that requires subtlety and perhaps some deniability as well.


    As you wish. I will bring a full squad of guild wardens and my own pick of experienced battle mages. We will travel north incognito and find this rogue mage.


    Good. Now, also missing from the official briefing are some of our local contacts, the guild master replied as he held out another piece of paper. Even in Daggerpoint we maintain some sources of information, unsavory as they may be. When you get to the city put pressure on them and they should be able to point you in the right direction.


    Is that everything, master? the mage guard captain asked as he took the paper.


    Yes, you are dismissed, the guild master replied as he waved his subordinates away. He then looked down and pulled his pen out of the inkwell it had been resting in.


    For the glory of the Fiery Eye! the two mage guards said as they saluted and turned to leave.


    The guild master didnt look up or reply as they exited the room. He scowled deeply as he began writing again. When the door had swung shut and he was alone, the magically lit room was once again filled with the sound of scribbling and rustling papers.

 A Familiar Fate 1

    A Familiar Fate 1


    Geralhd frowned with obvious trepidation as he studied cknail. The hobgoblin simply smiled back in a cheerful manner. That always disarmed humans, or maybe it stunned them, cknail wasnt sure. It worked. That was what mattered.


    It was mid day, and people were walking past them on the street as they both stood outside a rather fancy looking inn that was located on a busy city street. It had stained ss windows and its sign bore the image of a wine bottle and a silver fork. cknail had his hood up so that he didnt draw attention, and the other former members of Herads band had already gone inside.


    Are you sure you dont want to join us? Geralhd asked. Were nning on holding a celebratory feast, and it wont be the same without you. You were our guide here. Let us reward you! We can rent a private room to help keep you incognito.


    I was the leader, not just the guide, cknail pointed out.


    Ah, yes. That too.


    cknail fel the urge to roll his eyes, but he suppressed it. That would be rude. It was amazing that humans were stupid enough to believe that he was stupid enough not to catch the nuance of their words. Did they think he was as stupid as they were? Well, whatever. Their reluctance to admit he was the best leader they had ever had wasnt an issue right now.


    No, I got things to do, very important things. I need to visit some people I met here before. They will be very excited to see me.


    Huh, I keep forgetting that you came here with Heradst year. But all that can wait. Think of all the food and drink you will be missing, and Khita is expecting you to join us. She wouldnt have gone in without us otherwise.


    Im fine, and Khita can bother someone else for a while. Im busy. The young redhead had mostly recovered from the injuries she had acquired during the battle at Shelter, but the journey here had taken a lot out of her so she had gone ahead to sit down.


    There will be more meat pies than you can eat.


    cknail wavered. That was a tempting offer. He could eat a lot of meat pies. Maybe his ns could wait No, he had to prioritize and resist temptation. He would just have to rob a storeter tonight, when he was done.


    Sounds tasty, but I cant. I will see you soon, cknail responded before turning to leave. He had to focus on the mission. Pies were secondary to vengeance, most of the time.


    Good luck then, and try to stay out of trouble! Geralhd called after him. The man was obviously torn between keeping an eye on cknail and finally getting the rest and rxation he had been craving for months, but his impatience had won. All of the former bandits had filled their pockets with coin from the in raiders.


    Of course! Dont worry, Im amazingly sneaky, and I will keep my head down, cknail replied cheerfully as he turned to wave goodbye. He was going to do the exact opposite of what he had just said.


    Without a shred of guilt, cknail turned back around and started walking away. The hobgoblins cloak trailed behind him as he moved down the street, and people got out of the way. He had engineered everyones return to Daggerpoint for a purpose, and it was time to get to it.


    About three weeks had passed since the defeat of the raiders who had attacked Shelter. While Geralhd and the others had been resting and rxing, cknail had hunted down the fleeing remnants of the raiders. He and his minions had stalked them through the forest and worn them down with constant surprise attacks until they were easy pickings. It had been both a necessary part of cknails grand n and a lot of fun. There was just something so sweet and right about a good hunt with a bloody ending. It warmed cknails hobgoblin heart.


    Once thest of the raiders were dead and no longer amusing, cknail had returned to Shelter and finally guided hispanions east through the Green to Daggerpoint. The journey had taken a while but it had been mostly uneventful, until he had dropped them off at the inn behind him.


    After walking past a tailors shop, cknail stopped at a corner. He brought his fingers to his mouth and whistled sharply. The shrill noise caused several people to look his way, but cknail ignored them, and there was soon a replying whistle from off in the distance. cknail headed towards the noise. He walked down the road, stepped behind a fruit booth, and slipped into an alleyway that was out of sight of everyone on the road. The side street wasnt empty though, two dozen cloaked figures were standing in the shadows. They looked cknails way as he approached, and he saw into their shadowy hoods to get a good look at their faces. They were hobgoblins.


    cknail quickly counted them to make sure they were all there. They were. Good, you made it into the city without any problems.


    Yep, it wasnt even hard, Scamp replied proudly. We climbed the wall. All the humans didnt even look our way, and they couldnt smell us if we were sticking our fingers up their small pink noses.


    Why do they even have noses? another hobgoblin asked no one in particr.


    Before leaving Shelter, cknail had assembled a group of hobgoblins and ordered them to follow in secret. Scamp hadnt been cknails first choice for sub-leader, but Gob was needed back at their main base, and after cknail Scamp was actually the most experienced hobgoblin when it came to dealing with humans. He had also been raised in Herads camp when he was a goblin.


    cknail took a moment to study his minions. Entering the city had affected each hobgoblin differently. The ce was incredibly alien to most of them since they had been born and raised out in the forest. Some were excited while others were more nervous, but all of them seemed distracted and jumpy. Several werent even looking in cknails direction. They were scanning the shadows for danger or trying to peer past cknail to get a look at all activity on the street behind him. To remedy this, cknail hissed and pped the nearest hobgoblin across the side of the head. That got their attention.


    Pay attention to me. Im your leader, cknail told his minions. You dont need to fear the humans here. They are blind and stupid. As long as you are with me you will be safe, so ignore all the delicious smells. I will get us all tasty foodter.


    This speech reassured the hobgoblins a fair bit and they calmed down enough to give cknail theirplete attention.


    What are we doing here, boss? Are we going to steal a whole bunch of tasty and shiny stuff? Scamp asked.


    No! Stealing is bad, cknail replied as he kicked a surprised Scamp in the shin. We are here to learn from the humans, and then we will probably kill a whole bunch of them. If those people just happen to have lots of interesting items for us to take then that isnt stealing because they arent using the stuff anymore, since they are dead.


    That makes sense to me, another hobgoblin agreed. A lot of other minions nodded, while Scamp winced and shook his sore leg.


    The first person we are looking for is a mage. He knows some fancy magic stuff I need.


    So we are going to talk to him? Herah asked as she stepped right up next to cknail and stared into his eyes.


    cknail leaned away from her. He had considered leaving the female hobgoblin behind, but she was one his best disguise artists and voice mimics. She was one of the few hobgoblins who could soundpletely human and she even had a blonde wig. Also, she had really wanted toe and he wasnt sure she would have listened if he said no.


    Sort of. His name is Avorlus, and he probably wont want to share his magic with me, so we are going to sneak into his house and ask him about it when none of his servants are around. We dont want to meet his guards. They are tough fighters and rather unfriendly.


    Once all of his minions had fully grasped the details of the mission, cknail led the way deeper into the city. Avorlus lived near the center of the city where most of the big fancy houses were. To avoid unwanted attention, cknail chose to move through the back streets and less upied portions of city. His cloaked hobgoblin minions trotted after him, as they moved through the shadows and grimy alleys.


    It felt weird to be back in Daggerpoint. The city was the same. It was still a steaming heap of nose burning scents, both good and bad, but he was here under very different circumstance than his first visit. Then he had been one of Herads servants and now he was the leader of his own group. cknails right hand tightened into a fist as he suddenly felt the ache of Saeters absence. Soon


    The hobgoblins ran into people more than once as they stalked through the back streets, but after one nce at cknails party the people all quickly disappeared without a word. This was Daggerpoint and everyone here knew better than to go looking for trouble. It soon became obvious that there was no immediate danger of discovery so the hobgoblins began talking amongst themselves.


    There are so many humans here. one remarked in awe.


    There is even more garbage, another replied as he scowled down the unidentifiable substance he had just stepped in.


    Oh ya. The pinkies are everywhere. They have lots of cities all over the ce. You just dont see them out in the forest much because almost all of them are too stupid to survive there without being in a huge mob, cknail replied as he kept walking.


    The group passed an alley that led out into a street where several food vendors were hawking their wares. The aroma of the greasy food wafted out and enveloped the hobgoblins. Two of them instinctively moved to investigate, and cknail had to drag them back by their cloaks. After a couple of quick punishment swats, they kept moving.


    All the hobgoblins with cknail had been thoroughly trained, but they were still hobgoblins. Each of them had been taught self-discipline the same way cknail had, through intensive and exhausting swordsmanship lessons. The only way to escape the embarrassing beatings was for them to seize control of their emotions and learn the skills necessary to fight. This self-discipline was necessary because hobgoblins were violent and anti-social by nature. In the wild, hobgoblins usually murdered each other at first sight. Those that failed to learn to suppress their urges were executed. They were too dangerous to keep around and of no use to cknail.


    After observing his minions, cknail had alsoe to realize that a lot of the sessful hobgoblins changed throughout their training. Some developed quirks such as nail-biting or making clicking noises when stressed, while others became obsessed with something. The hobgoblin walking right behind cknail would stop and tap his elbow every few seconds. cknail was d he hadnt picked up any weird quirks like that when Saeter had trained him.


    Soon the hobgoblins reached an area where the houses were squeezed together and the back alleys came to an end, so they quickly stepped out onto a main road. It wasnt particrly busy there, but there was more than a few people about, and cknails group drew a fair amount of attention. Cloaked figures were hardly rare in Daggerpoint, but although the hobgoblins features were hidden there was still something off-putting about them. Maybe it was the way they moved or maybe it was their height that raised peoples hackles. There were lots of humans as short as hobgoblins, but they didnt usually wear dark cloaks and travel together inrge groups.


    Before they could draw too much attention though, cknail led his minions back down into an alley. No one raised an rm behind them so they kept going. After a bit more walking they reached a tall wall that ran between two homes. Two by two, the hobgoblins jumped and grabbed the top so they could pull themselves up and over it. Once theynded on the other side they had reached the central district of the city.


    The going here was tougher. It was the only ce where the city watch patrolled, and although they tended to let most people enter and leave unmolested, cknail was sure they would be suspicious of his minions. They werent as good at disguising themselves as he was. The key to mimicking humans was to walk around like you were blind and about to walk right into something.


    cknail peered out from behind the corner of a building and looked around. He didnt see any guards so he motioned for his minions to follow. All together, they ran across the street and jumped into some shrubbery that bordered a yard. A few momentster, they leapt out and ran over to the neighbors ce. Like this, they made their way down the street until they had arrived at their destination. In front of cknail was the fenced-in property where he had met Avorlus. Like before, the long path up to the house was barred by a metal gate, but now there was no huge glowering guard watching over the entrance. It looked deserted.


    Carefully, cknail signaled for his minions to hold their position and then went to investigate. He nonchntly walked over to the gate and looked around. No one stepped out to stop him, so he ced a hand on the iron gate. His gentle touch caused it to swing open on its well oiled hinges. cknail froze but no guards appeared, so he stepped inside and nced towards the house. There were no signs of activity, so he signaled for his minions to follow him.


    Once they were all past the gate, the hobgoblins crept up the pathway that led to the house. One side of it was bordered by a neatly trimmed hedge, so they kept their heads low as they moved. As they approached the door, cknail noticed that it had been left slightly open. He watched the windows of the huge mansion before him for any signs of movement as he stalked over to the door and carefully examined it. The lock had been busted. The wood was splintered around the metal te and wouldnt shut properly anymore. cknail grunted and peered inside. The house was dark and empty. This wasnt going anything like he had nned. He wasnt sure what was going on, but it didnt seem likely that Avorlus was inside and off guard.


    After his minions had joined him, cknail pulled the door open and they entered Avorluss mansion. The reception room was exactly as cknail remembered, except for theck of people and the huge hole that someone had sted through one of the interior walls.


    This is definitely the house of a mage. Something went boom, Scamp remarked as he walked over to the hole and examined it. The edges of the rubble were burnt ck.


    I dont think Avorlus did that, cknail replied as he reached Scamps side. Id bet that some other humans with magic attacked this ce.


    The scent of blood was thick within the mansion and there were other signs of battle everywhere. As the hobgoblins explored the other rooms they found more st marks, some rather extensive water damage, shards of ck crystal jutting out from walls, and what looked like a bottomless pit in the middle of a hallway.


    Do you think this is supposed to be here? a hobgoblin asked as he peered down into the pits ck depths. The wooden floor around the hole had been cracked and torn.


    No, humans dont like having holes in the ground in ces where they walk a lot, cknail replied. He knew this from experience.


    More searching revealed quite a few interesting items that quickly disappeared into hobgoblin pockets but no signs of Avorlus. There were also a lot of books and bits of paper with writing on them scattered around the house, but none of the hobgoblins could read. cknail hoped the secrets he was looking for werent written on any of them. It hadnt urred to him to bring a human in case he needed someone to make sense of their scribbling.


    What do we do now, boss? I dont think your magic man is here, Scamp asked when they had all returned to the reception room.


    cknail sighed and thought it over quickly. He needed to find Avorlus, even if it meant taking some risks. Hopefully the mage was still alive.


    Stay here, cknail orders his minions.


    The hobgoblin chieftain then went back to thergest and most luxurious bedroom they had found and started searching it. It took him a few minutes to find what he was looking for, several articles of clothing that smelled strongly of Avorlus. He grabbed them and then handed them out to his minions.


    Whats this for? I already took a nicer looking shirt. It has silver buttons! a hobgoblin remarked as he held the brown shirt he had been given out in front of him.


    Smell it. Im looking for the human that wore them, cknail exined as the hobgoblins passed the clothes around and sniffed them. Im going to send a bunch of you to look for him.


    You want us to explore the city by ourselves?


    Yes, just stay out of trouble. Sniff around for signs of Avorlus and make sure no humans get a good look at you. If they do then kill them. Come back here when four hours pass or if you find Avorlus.


    All the hobgoblins immediately turned to leave. Most of them were grinning in excitement.


    This didnt amuse cknail. No, not all of you! Some of you have to stay here with me. I will decide who gets to leave.


    There were moans from the hobgoblins as cknail chose three to remain behind with him. They watched the others leave with obvious disappointment. Both Herah and Scamp were selected to go hunting. cknail had wanted to keep them with him and out of trouble, but they were too skilled not to use.


    Im going to find something nice to wear and maybe a new wig! Herah eximed as she walked out the door.


    Scamp was right behind her. I want an entire tray of sausages, the spicy kind!


    cknail scowled after them. He had no way of keeping his minions on track once they left. All he could do was hope they remembered to actually look for Avorlus and not just stuff themselves silly.


    What are we going to be doing here? one of the remaining hobgoblins asked as he gazed longingly after his more fortunate fellows.


    cknail smiled fiercely as he answered. Wereying a trap. There is no way the people that attacked this ce arent watching it. If we make some noise then someone wille to investigate and we can ask them some questions.

 A Familiar Fate 2

    A Familiar Fate 2


    While he was waiting for his minions to return, cknail beganying the groundwork for his next move. The first thing he did was explore Avorlus mansion more thoroughly. The huge building was full of grandly decorated rooms andvish furniture, but that didnt interest the hobgoblins. However, they did make some interesting discoveries. The building had a kitchen of course, and so now that most of the others had left, cknail and the remaining hobgoblins raided it for snacks. Since it didnt seem like anyone had been around for a few days, most of the food was a little stale, but that didnt matter too much to the hobgoblins. A little age made most human foods taste better anyway. Mold added both color and vor.


    After eating their way through the cabs, the searchers moved on to examine and loot the rest of the ce. One of them stumbled upon a hidden doorway in a wall. It opened to reveal a stairway going down, so the searcher immediately ran to fetch cknail.


    Where do you think it goes? he asked when everyone had gathered to study the stairway.


    To a ce that the mage wanted hidden, a ce where he keeps his most prized possessions, cknail replied.


    A hidden food store? the hobgoblin guessed as he leaned forward and peered eagerly down the passage.


    cknail shook his head. No, a mage values his magic more than anything else.


    After a brief search for a torch to light the way, cknail led the way down the stairs. There were light crystals on the walls but none of the hobgoblins could activate them, since they didnt have mage blood. Scamp could have done it, so cknail sort of regretted sending him away. However, on the other hand, if there was any explosive magic down here then cknail didnt want Scamp anywhere near it.


    Upon reaching the bottom of the stairs, the hobgoblins found themselves in a fair sized room with rough stone walls. Tables, shelves, andplex looking contraptions filled the space. Light from the torch cknail was holding shone out into the room but it wasnt strong enough to dispel most of the shadows that filled the chambers corners. Most evidently of all though, everything reeked of human blood. The smell was practically suffocating.


    Ew, it smells like a pinky exploded down here, a hobgoblin remarked as his lips curled up in disgust.


    What are those metal cages for? another minion asked as he stepped up to examine one of the objects in question. There were three empty cages with iron bars up against the nearest wall. They were more thanrge enough to hold people and piles of chainsy inside them.


    cknail pinched his nose close. They are for holding people. You can smell it.


    Oh, we should get one for our base. They seem super useful!


    Maybeter, cknail replied absently as he went to investigate a shelf.


    The tall wooden shelf contained a lot of the items that cknail hade to associate with mages, such as ss bottles and delicate looking metal tools. All the beakers and vials were empty, though. Judging from all the stained ss shards on the ground, it looked like someone had hastily swept the one that had been full of liquid off the shelf and onto the ground. None of the remaining items were of any use to cknail so he moved on.


    The table off to one side looked like it had once been covered in piles of papers and books, but now there was only a ck stain, fragments of burnt paper, and a small pile of ashes atop it.


    This bed isnt veryfortable, a hobgoblin remarked.


    cknail looked over to see that the speaker was lying down on a wooden tform in the middle of the room. It was slightly nted and looked to be adjustable. It also had several straps on its surface, and next to it was a little table that held various small knives, a pair of scissors, and arge saw with jagged teeth.


    Thats because no oneys down on it by choice, cknail replied. Its for butchering people.


    The hobgoblin quickly rolled to his feet and backed away from the table. I didnt think humans ate other humans. Even we dont eat humans.


    The meat and blood arent for eating. They are for the mages experiments.


    Magic sounds very icky.


    It is, when its not exploding, cknail replied as it dawned on him that he had no idea what the Elixir he drank was actually made out of. It was probably best not to think about it.


    Further exploration of the room failed to yield any useful discoveries. All the beakers were broken or empty, and there were no mana crystals lying around. There also wasnt a map to Avorlus location sitting out anywhere, which would have been useful. Disappointed, cknail headed back up the stairs and into the main part of the mansion. All the other hobgoblins were forced to follow him since he was the one holding the torch.


    The entire mansion had had beenpletely searched now that the hidden basement had been explored, and cknail hadnt found any clues to Avorlus location. That meant he had to go back to his first n and prepare an ambush.


    cknail had been doing a lot of travellingtely, so hed had plenty of time to think about a pet project of his, building a better human trap. Now was his opportunity to put his ideas into action. What fun. He couldnt wait to see the look on his preys'' faces when the trap was sprung! Right away, cknail went about gathering up supplies and materials. He was going to need a lot of rope, some bait, and arge frying pan.


    Humming with excitement, cknail went to work. Once he had the tools he needed, he looked around for the best spot to put his ingenious design together. The key was to think like a human so that you could predict exactly what they were going to do. You had to know what they liked, what they couldnt resist, what they hated, and what they feared. Although, it was almost more useful to know what they didnt fear, since humans seemed terrified of basically everything. Not like hobgoblins, which were only afraid of things that made sense, like giant green things with teeth. There were just an ufortablyrge amount of those in the North.


    Why are you putting those shiny bits on the ground? one of the hobgoblins asked as cknail was working.


    They are bait. The humans will see them sparkle and investigate, cknail exined as he did his best human voice. They will be like, look silver coins! They are super useful if I want to do pointless human things. I can never have enough money, so I should pick them up and not think at all about how suspicious they are.


    Is that what a human would really say?


    It is what they will think as they pick the coins up.


    That sounds really dumb, but then again they are very shiny. Can I have one?


    No, these are mine. Get your own.


    Another hobgoblin walked over. Why dont we just sneak up and grab them when they show up?


    cknail glowered at his minion. This will be safer and more fun. Just shut your jaw and do as I say. We are doing it my way. Im the leader.


    When the trap had been set up, cknail ordered one of his minions to pull his hood up and go hang around outside the front gate of theplex. He was to stay by the gate and within sight of the street so that he would attract attention, but he was ordered to disappear back inside if the city guard showed up or anyone tried to approach him. Another hobgoblin was to watch from concealment and report everything that happened. Nothing was likely to happen right away, so cknail went to stuff his face and take a nap while he waited. All this nning had made him hungry and the great big bed in Avorlus room was bothfy and empty.


    cknail hadnt quite drifted off yet when he heard the sound of someone approaching. He was curled up atop a pile of nkets and feeling quitefortable, but he fought off his drowsiness and looked up towards the source of the noise. It was one of his hobgoblin minions, which meant that this probably wasnt an attempt on his life. Although, cknail wasntpletely sure since hobgoblins were so deceitful and vicious, except for himself. He was loyal and honest at all times. Even when he lied he was being honest in spirit, since it was probably for their own good. He was caring like that.


    A stranger hase, the hobgoblin announced when cknail looked his way.


    A human had arrived to test the trap! cknail immediately jumped up and motioned for his minion to lead the way. The hobgoblin nodded and together they raced across the mansion to one of the back doors. They then slipped outside and stalked through the bushes until they were looking out at the front entrance from a concealed position behind a tree.


    At first cknail didnt see anyone, but then he saw motion along the path from the front gate. Someone was creeping carefully along the other side of the hedge, where it would be harder to see them from the house. It was a figure in a long brown cloak. They werent doing a very good job of moving stealthily, but their jerky and tense movements certainly made them look like they were trying hard at it.


    From his hiding spot, cknail watched the figure get closer with building excitement. He smiled as the man got close enough for him to get a good look at. It was definitely an unfamiliar human! Under his hood, he had dark eyes that made him look tired and an unshaven face. The man crouched at the edge of the hedge and leaned out to look around. He scanned the front of the house and the nearby greenery, but his eyes slipped right past cknail and the hobgoblin beside him. The man obviously wasnt much of a tracker or hunter.


    When he didnt see anyone else around, the intruder got up and hurried over to the front door. As he was crossing the grounds, he happened to look over to one side and see something on the ground. He stopped and took a quick second to pick up the item that had caught his attention. It was silver coin. cknail giggled quietly to himself from his hiding ce.


    Just as he was about to start moving again, the intruder saw another coin in the grass and hesitated. A momentter, he shuffled over to pick up this coin as well. That was when he noticed the open pouch of coins next to a nearby tree. The bag was open so that the coins were clearly visible.


    The man hesitated again. He looked confused and hesitant as he turned to scan his surroundings, but once again he didnt see anything dangerous, so he shrugged and slipped the coin he was holding into one of his pockets as he moved towards the tree. He took several steps and then his boot hit something. There was a crack as a twig snapped somewhere nearby. The man flinched and stood up straight to look around again, but he didnt see the trip wire he had just set off. The trap was in motion, and a momentter a dark object descended from the leafy branches hanging overhead. The frying pan smashed into the top of the intruders head. There was a thud and a nk as the iron skillet bounced off bone. The man swayed, regained his bnce, and then crumpled bonelessly onto the ground like an empty set of clothes.


    Huh, it worked, the hobgoblin next to cknail muttered in surprise.


    Ha, it worked! cknail shouted excitedly as he burst from concealment.


    The two hobgoblins then ran over to examine the fallen human. They were quickly joined by several other hobgoblins that had been hiding and watching.


    Hmmm, very nice. Good timing. It was a little boring, though. I need to make the next one have more whiz and crack. Some boom wouldnt hurt, cknail mused to himself as he examined the remains of the trap. Maybe I can do something with forks...


    Now what? a minion asked.


    We bring him inside, put him somewhere nice andfy, and then threaten to cut him into pieces until he tells me what I want to know.


    What if he doesnt know anything?


    Then at least I will have fun.


    At cknailsmand, two hobgoblins dragged the unconscious man inside the mansion and plopped him into one of the chairs there. Hobgoblins then tied him to the back of the chair with a loop of rope, while cknail grabbed another chair and sat down in front of the captive. When a p failed to wake the man up, a minion went to fetch a bucket of water. cknail made a mental note to maybe use a smaller frying pan next time.


    Ah, gods above! the man screamed as cold water sshed across his face and soaked into his clothes. He jerked forward but the rope held him down, and his eyes shot wide open but they didnt focus on anything for a few moments. However, when the captive did get a good look at the person seated in front of him his eyes went even wider than before. He gasped and looked terrified out of his mind.


    cknail just smiled and leaned forward so he could meet the mans eyes. Hello!


    The captives mouth fell open and he stared back uprehendingly. What?


    Im the one who is going to be asking the questions, cknail replied. You just need to worry about answering them.


    Hells, what are you? the man gasped in terror.


    What did I just say? cknail replied as he glowered in annoyance. He was really getting sick of how stupid people could be. Maybe a few pokes with a knife would help this human learn.


    Are you a demon? Am I dead?


    cknail paused and took a moment to think. Er, yes Yes, you are. Im a demon and this is the hells, so there is no point in not answering all my questions.


    Oh, gods. No, I cant believe it. I prayed to Cor-Dius constantly and tried not tomit too many crimes a day! How could this happen to me?


    Believe it. Now answer my questions, cknail hissed as he raised a dagger threateningly. That seemed like fairly demon-like behavior to him.


    The man immediately began spilling his guts. In fact, he was talking way too much. cknail didnt really care about his reasons for sleeping with his neighbors wife or that time he had stolen his brothers golden ring and sold it.


    Focus on the stuff that happened right before you um died, cknail told him.


    The frantic man quickly began exining about how hed been hired to watch the house for signs of activity by a group of men who had assaulted it a few days earlier.


    Who where they?


    They didnt tell me, foul one. I was just paid to help them find the ce, but they must have been from a mage guild. They were too organized and packing too much magic for them to be anyone else. I have no idea which one. Please dont devour my soul.


    cknail really didnt like being called foul by a smelly human, but that wasnt important right now. He had heard of the mage guilds many times, although he knew little about them, except they were a group of powerful mages. Mahedium had been on the run from them, and now it seemed like they were after Avorlus.


    What did they want with Avorlus? cknail asked his mortally confused captive.


    I dont know, great defiler. I just know they wanted him alive.


    That was interesting, and good news. It meant there was a solid chance Avorlus was still alive. cknail asked the man a few more questions but didnt get any more interesting information out of him, except for the location of what the captive swore was the best cheese shop in the city. Since the man was no longer of any use, cknail got up, walked around, and cut his throat from behind. He did it without warning so that the man barely had time to react. One moment he was whining about how hed been forced to kill that dog because it wouldnt shut up, and then the next he was choking on his own blood. The frothy gurgling was much more pleasant to listen to.


    Alive, the man would undoubtedly have tried to warn hispanions about the hobgoblins presence, and cknail had no way of stopping him. Two hobgoblins then carried the mans body over to the deep pit in the hallway and dropped it down into the dark. cknail didnt want to leave Avorlus house a mess. He was a guest here after all.


    Before cknail could wander back to the bedroom and start napping again, a hobgoblin ran over with news.


    One of the scouts has returned, boss, the excited minion reported. He found the mage you are looking for, but so have the people that attacked this ce. It looks like there is about to be a big fight.

 A Familiar Fate 3

    A Familiar Fate 3


    The four hours cknail had given his scouts were almost up, and it was time for them to return from their hunt, so cknail decided to wait a few minutes before heading off to track down Avorlus. The scout that had found him needed a moment to catch his breath anyway, and some of the minions that had stayed at the mansion had wandered off and needed to be rounded up.


    After stretching and yawning to shake off the effects of his nap, cknail sent out word for everyone to meet at the main foyer. There, they began preparing to head out, while they waited for theggards to arrive. Equipment needed to be sorted, disguises had to be fixed, and loot had to be stashed away.


    It didnt take long for the scouts that had been sent out to starting back. The first hobgoblin that arrived walked through the front door and reported that he hadnt found anything of interest. However, cknail couldnt help but notice that his clothes were absolutely covered in blood that smelled suspiciously human.


    What happened to you? cknail asked.


    I tripped, the hobgoblin replied meekly as he turned to avoid meeting cknails eyes.


    Into a giant puddle of human blood?


    Er yes. That.


    Before cknail could question him more  like about how the puddle had gotten there in the first ce - he was distracted by the arrival of another scout. This one had something sitting on its shoulders. It was a human, a very small one.


    Weeee, the little brown haired childughed as he threw his hand up into the air. He was dressed in fine looking clothes and didnt seem put off by the presence of all the hobgoblins at all, least of all the one he was riding.


    cknail stared. What is that?


    I found it behind a house. Can I keep it?


    Green men! the child giggled as it stuck its tongue out at cknail.


    No, you cant keep it. I already have to deal with too many small useless critters, and that thing cant even feed itself. It could take over a year to properly train it! cknail growled angrily. He had no idea how long it took human children to grow up, or how old this child was. He just knew they matured slower than goblins, so it took around six years, maybe?


    I know its pink and ugly, but look at its chubby face and big cute eyes! Dont you just want to give it treats and pat its head? the hobgoblin exined as he set the child down.


    No, take it back, right now!


    Angry green man, the childughed.


    I promise to feed it and train it to do chores.


    No! I dont have time for this. Go return it. You can catch up to uster.


    Aww, the hobgoblin scout replied sadly as he turned to leave the mansion and do as he was told.


    The arrival of Herah and Scamp was quite in byparison. They were merely pushing a wheelbarrow full of junk and food between them.


    Did you even look for the mage? cknail asked them. He was not amused. It seemed like most his scouts had simply been king off. It was a miracle that one of them had actually stumbled onto Avorlus path.


    Sure, he wasnt in any of the sausage shops we went to, Scamp replied as he stopped pushing the wheelbarrow and let go of it.


    Why would he be in a sausage shop?


    Thats where I would be.


    cknail red at Scamp. Once they got out of this city, the hobgoblin was going to be given an endless stream of chores to do, or get stabbed to death. Either one would be fine.


    I looked for the mage. Id do anything for you, Herah interjected as she approached.


    As you should. Im the leader, cknail replied absently as he stepped out of the way of her attempt to lean against him. At this point, it was second nature to him.


    I also have cheese! Herah said as she presented him with a small bundle wrapped in cloth.


    cknail quickly snatched the present from her and sniffed it. It was cheese, alright. It wasnt the best type, but it was far from the worst as well.


    Youre my new favorite, cknail told her approvingly.


    Does that mean I get a hug?


    No, not at all, cknail replied as he eyed her suspiciously. He knew she wanted to mate with him, but why did she want to hug him? Was she trying to trick him somehow?


    When everyone had gathered and gotten ready, the scout who had located Avorlus led the way back out into the city. The hobgoblins quickly left the central district and made their way into the outer parts of Daggerpoint, where everything was dirtier and more cramped. It was beginning to get dark out as the day grew old, and the sun was now touching the western horizon. The streets had be less crowded as shops closed and the shadows had lengthened. This made it easier for cknails party to move through Daggerpoint without drawing too much attention. They passed through the residential area, walked past streets full of shops, and exited an alley to emerge among rows of derelict-looking warehouses. There was no one in sight but the asional rustle or nk could be heard from down a dark alley. It was probably just rats, or orphans. They were pretty much the same thing anyway.


    Thats the ce there, the hobgoblin scout said as he peered out from behind the corner of a building and pointed to a warehouse.


    cknail joined him and leaned around the corner as well. All the other hobgoblins were behind him. You followed the scent here?


    I found the mages trail in a nearby alley and it led me here, boss. There are men guarding the entrances so I went back to get you.


    And the enemy?


    The hunters. They are in the buildings around us. The watch and wait. For what, I dont know.


    They probably want to move in darkness. Even in Daggerpoint people would notice a small battle ande see what was happening, cknail mused to himself as he scanned the nearby windows for signs of watchers.


    What do you want to do, boss? Scamp asked.


    We will sneak in and try to find Avorlus. There is no way somezy city humans will see us, cknail answered haughtily as he turned to face his minions and rubbed his hands together in glee. This shouldnt be too hard.


    Before anyone could reply, there was a loud boom. The orange light of untamed mes shredded the nearby shadows. The unmistakable crack and thud of flying masonry filled the air and all the hobgoblins flinched. One of the walls of Avorlus hideout had just exploded, and there was a cacophony of excited shouts from within.


    cknail leaned back around the corner and frowned in annoyance. As he watched, a squad of armored human warriors stormed out of a door across the street and ran toward the action. Their leader was very clearly holding a mage staff, and as soon as they had disappeared into a side street there was another explosion.


    Or we could wait here and see what happens, cknail told his minions. This didnt seem like a situation he wanted to get involved in.


    Great idea, boss! Scamp agreed as the other hobgoblins nodded.


    You are so wise, Herah added fawningly as she fluttered her eyshes his way.


    There was another explosion, and then a body flew out of a second-story window and smacked into the street below. It slid briefly across the cobblestones beforeing to a stop. A few momentster, a new squad of armored soldiers marched out of an alley and took up position in front of the door of Avorlus warehouse. They ignored the corpse thaty by their feet.


    Wow, the humans in this city sure have a lot of fun, Scamp remarked in surprise.


    mes were now leaping out of some of the first story windows. A burning man threw himself out of one of them and began thrashing around on the ground. He screamed for a few seconds before one of the soldiers walked over and silenced him with a stab of his sword.


    Several minutes passed as the hobgoblins in the shadows watched the building burn. cknail took the time to try ande up with a new n, but nothing came to mind that didnt end with him staring down the business end of a mages staff. Then, there was a crash, and several figures stepped out of the warehouses front door. By the light of the fire, they were recognizable as the attacking soldiers that had entered the warehouse before. Their leader with the mage staff was still with them. More importantly, two of soldiers were carrying a limb body between them. cknail studied the figure and saw the familiar figure of a white-haired old man. It was Avorlus!


    Thats him, our quarry, cknail hissed as he pointed at the unconscious mage.


    It seems like these humans got him first, Scamp replied.


    Too bad, lets go home! another hobgoblin added. He seemed a little frightened by all the mayhem, so cknail stomped on his foot and gave him a hard stare to remind him of who he should really be afraid of.


    The two groups of soldiers had now merged and Avorlus was right in the very middle of them. Suddenly, two men in the dark uniforms of Avorlus bodyguards rushed out of the front door of the warehouse. It wasnt clear if they were chasing after their master or just trying to escape the mes. They had swords in hand, and like all of the rogue mages men, they were heavy set and tough looking. Avorlus also had a habit of making his guards into Vessels, since that was his magical specialty.


    The leader of the soldiers saw the guards emerge from the building, and he raised his staff. As soon as it was pointed in their direction, a st of force shot out and mmed into the closest guard. There was a crash as he was sent flying back through the door and into the building. Before the other bodyguard could even react, a second st smashed into him. He was also blown backwards, but instead of going back through the door, there was a loud st as he hit the wall.


    The leader of the attackers then studied the building for a few seconds, before flipping his staff around. He fiddled with the knobs on the side, and then he pointed it back at the building. A heavy boom shook the air as a green ball of energy of mmed into the building. It flew in through a window and exploded within the building, causing the earth to shake slightly. However, the mage didnt stop there. He fired three more times. The walls of the building began warping and then the entire warehouse copsed into a pile of burning rubble. A second mage with a staff then stepped forward and began spraying the remains with a stream of water. The water hissed and steamed as it hit the mes and hot stones. It didnt take long for all the visible fires to be put out.


    Lets not fight them, Herah suggested. She sounded impressed, and cknail didnt me her. This was easily one of the greatest disys of magic he had ever seen. Usually mages held back more.


    With the buildingpletely destroyed, the soldiers started marching away down the street. They moved quickly, as if they were in a hurry, and cknail could guess why. They hadnt exactly been subtle during their attack. Even thiste, people would being to investigate all the noise they had just made. There were probably already some unwanted eyes around.


    We are following them. Be sneaky and stay out of sight, cknail hissed at his minions as he stepped out on the street and began stalking after the soldiers.


    You dont have to tell me that, a hobgoblin whispered as he began tiptoeing after cknail. Im going to be sneakier than ever, so I dont end up going st against a wall.


    The other hobgoblins then followed, if somewhat reluctantly. It was night now, and a slim crescent moon was visible in the sky overhead. Without the firelight, it was dark and hard to see out, although there were still some light streaming from windows. Daggerpoint was arge city, and some streets were lit and still upied, but the soldiers avoided them.


    The rooftops started pressing closer together as the group cknail was following headed into a lower end residential distract. To get a better view, cknail jumped onto a pile of barrels and climbed up the side of a building. He pulled himself onto the y tile roof and then continued after his prey. The soldiers travelled down several dark streets and more than a few tight alleyways, as cknail stalked them from above. The soldiers had a rear guard that was watching their retreat, but none of them looked up for pursuers, which was amon human failing.


    As his minions followed below, cknail leaped from one roof to another. Hended softly with almost no noise, and then he scrambled after his quarry. He caught up to them and stopped to watch from behind a chimney as they suddenly came to a stop outside arge shop. It was arge two story building along a fairly prosperous-looking street, although there was no one out at this time of night. The door of the shop was opened by someone within and then the soldiers hurried inside with Avorlus.


    Below cknail, his hobgoblin minions arrived and took up position in the shadows of a tight alleyway. They waited for his orders as he studied the building. Inside, a light red into existence, but the windows were shuttered so nothing was visible inside. After a few moments of thinking, cknail scrambled down the side of the building to join his minions in the alleyway.


    What now, boss? Scamp whispered.


    Now we prepare to move, cknail replied quietly. These humans are very organized and this is their base. There will be sentries all around here. Check the nearby buildings and streets. I want every one of them found and watched.


    Can we kill them? another hobgoblin asked eagerly.


    Not yet, cknail answered. This didnt please many of his minions, but they knew better than toin.


    Its a night hunt, Herah remarked as she smiled. She didnt seem too disappointed.


    Yes, and it will be easy. Humans can barely function in the dark, Scamp bragged.


    As they broke up into smaller groups and headed out, the hobgoblins began betting with each other about who would find the most sentries. They were far more eager for action now that there was little chance of a face-to-face fight breaking out, and hobgoblins loved to hunt, even when it didnt immediately end in blood.


    cknail left two minions behind to watch the front door and then took another with him as he circled around to find the back entrance. If anyone left the shop he wanted to make absolutely sure he knew about it. Once hed found afortable spot on a nearby rooftop to watch from, he settled in to wait. Now was not the time to act. It was best to let the humans rx their guard, and then strike when they were unprepared. The guild wanted Avorlus alive, and he had been unconscious when hed been captured, so that meant cknail had time.


    Midnight came and went as cknail waited with the patient focus of a predator. The night grew pitch ck and then began to lighten, as hobgoblins reported in to their leader and then went back out to scout or watch their quarry. Several enemy sentries had indeed been found and easily evaded. Several humans slipped into and out of the shop, but none of them were Avorlus. As the very first rays of the sun began to shine out from behind the horizon, cknail decided it was time to move.


    Now, tell the others to take out all the sentries and then report back here, he told two of his minions that were behind him. They nodded and ran off to spread the word.


    Soon, grinning hobgoblins began arriving as cknails forces gathered. Several of them already smelled of blood from taking out the enemy sentries.


    All the watching humans are dead? cknail asked.


    Except the two in the shop that are watching the streets from windows, Scamp replied.


    Then we take them out now, at the same time I go in to find Avorlus.


    Whatever you want, boss.


    Exactly, cknail hissed in reply. Im the leader, and if you follow my orders then we will get what we came for without a problem.


    At cknailsmand, Scamp led a small group of hobgoblins over to scale the front of the building and take out the sentry that was posted at the window there. cknail took three helpers and went to do the same to the sentry at the side window. After descending to the ground, he crept through the shadows and towards the shop. When he got to the wall, he reached up and began scaling it by grabbing the rough stonework. Soon, he was dangling just beneath the windowsill. He waited there until he heard a quiet whistle from below. That was the signal. The sentry was alone and had turned away from the window. Grinning, cknail reached up and then pulled himself up onto the window. His strong, light, and agile body allowed him to move with both ease and inplete silence.


    There was a small sitting room in front of cknail. It was barely lit by a single smallmp off in a far corner. The sentry was an armored soldier and had walked away from the window so he could grab a bite of food from a tray on a table off to one side. There was only about seven feet between him and cknail, and he seemedpletely unaware of the fact that he wasnt alone anymore. In one smooth motion, cknail drew a long dagger and leapt towards the mans back. He sailed through the air like an errant shadow, and as hended on his target, he pulled the mans head back and reached around to cut his throat. The dagger sliced effortlessly through the flesh, and then cknail pulled the man down to the ground and stabbed him under the ribs for good measure. Blood spilled out of the wounds as cknail pinned the sentry against the floor. He died a few secondster without ever managing to put up a fight, or even get a look at his attacker.


    His prey in, cknail stood back up and grinned viciously at nothing in particr. He was practically vibrating with bloodlust, but he suppressed it as he walked over to the window and signaled for his minions to climb up. They were in. Now they just needed to find Avorlus without alerting the mages.

 A Familiar Fate 4

    A Familiar Fate 4


    After taking a second to listen and make sure that no one was hanging out in the hallway, cknail crept out of the room where he had just killed the sentry. Two hobgoblin minions followed after him, and one remained behind to serve as a lookout. He had been ordered to imitate the sentry if anyone came looking, kill any humans that werent fooled, and whistle sharply if he was found out. That would be cknails cue to break for the closest exit.


    Having followed the guild soldiers that had abducted him, cknail knew that Avorlus was somewhere in this building, and he needed to find the mage without being detected by those same soldiers. cknail doubted he could fight his way to the mage. There were dozens of heavily armed human soldiers inside and at least twobat mages as well. cknail had just seen a demonstration of the firepower thosebat mages wielded, and he had no desire to go head to head with them. On top of their unbelievable power, mages could be very tricky. They didnt y by the same rules as other people, and cknail had no idea what the rules of magic were. It might be a good idea to learn sometime. He would have to remember to ask.


    A long carpet stretched down the hallway and muffled the sound of the hobgoblins'' steps. One end of the hallway ended at a door, and at the other end was a staircase that led down. cknail headed for the stairs. As he walked, he heard voices from behind the closed door of one of the adjacent rooms.


    With the target captured we should head back at first light, a man said.


    It might be better to interrogate him here, someone else replied.


    cknail grinned in relief as he walked past the door. It sounded like Avorlus was still alive. He had been fairly sure that the guild wouldnt kill him yet, but notpletely certain. Humans could be unpredictable in their stupidity.


    When he reached the stairs, cknail took a moment to sniff around. He didnt detect any signs of Avorlus, and this seemed like the only way up to the second floor. That meant that Avorlus wasnt up here. Cautiously, cknail leaned over and peaked at the floor below. It was another empty hallway, although this one was much better lit, so with his minions in tow, cknail got up and carefully crept down the stairs. The steps creaked a bit, but no one showed up to check out the noise.


    The hallway at the bottom branched off in several direction. cknail walked forward a bit and peered down a side passage. He was immediately greeted by the sight of the front door. Two enemy soldiers in chainmail were guarding it. Since there was nothing for him there, cknail waited until he was sure they were both looking away, and then he and his followers slipped past the doorway and further down the hallway. The scent of Avorlus reached cknails nose as he moved deeper into the building. The rogue mage had been brought in through the front door and then been carried this way.


    There was a door to cknails right, and it was hanging slightly open. A quick look inside revealed arge dark room that was full of people. cknail had found most of the soldiers, but they werent currently a threat. Most of them looked to be asleep on makeshift hammocks or the floor. The room was obviously an impromptu barracks and judging by the smell Avorlus wasnt inside. Moving on, the hobgoblins passed several closed doors, but none of them were the way Avorlus had gone.


    Suddenly, cknail heard the creak of floorboards from behind him. He froze. Someone was about to walk out into the hallway, and there was no way he would miss the hobgoblins there. Quickly, cknail tested the closest door. It opened to reveal a linen closet. cknail wasted no time, and jumped inside. His two minions were right behind him, and the door snapped shut after them. No one moved or spoke for several long moments as the hobgoblins waited in the darkness of the closet for the sound of footsteps to pass, but then cknail spoke up.


    Get your foot away from my nose. Youre crushing it, he hissed as he stared at the offending hobgoblins boot, or at least he was fairly sure that it was a boot that was pressed up against his face. It was difficult to see in the gloom.


    The closet was rather small and the hobgoblins had been in a hurry when they had jumped inside, so they had ended up bunched together in a messy ball of awkwardly ced limbs.


    There was a grunt of exertion as someone tried to wiggle around, but then it stopped. Sorry, boss. I cant move.


    cknail hissed and tried to get free but one of his arms was jammed between someones legs and both his feet were immobile as well.


    Im stuck too, the other minion added unhelpfully.


    Annoyed, cknail kicked someone in the stomach. He wasnt sure who, but both his minions deserved it so it didnt really matter. A few momentster, and after a bit of trial and error, the hobgoblins managed to roll themselves out of the closet by shifting their weight all at once. They fell apart once they were free, and cknail climbed to his feet. He really wanted to smack his stupid minions around, but now wasnt the time. He needed their help toplete the mission. After that he could smack all he wanted.


    A turn in the hallway revealed another staircase that led downward. A quick sniff around proved that Avorlus had definitely been carried down them, so cknail followed after him. These stairs were less creaky, which was good because the basement wasnt empty. A quick nce around revealed that there were two guards standing next to a door across the room.


    cknail studied the two soldiers carefully for a few seconds, and then when he was sure they werent looking his way, he dropped down the stairs then rolled to the side in one smooth motion. The basement room below was full of crates and barrels, and cknail came to stop behind a trio of barrels that concealed him from the guards view. The entire chamber was obviously used for storage. It was lit by a series of oilmps on the walls, but the room was far from bright. The piles of materials cast shadows everywhere, and there was a draft in the room that was causing some of themps to flicker ever so slightly.


    cknail was quickly joined by his two followers, as they copied the maneuver he had used to descend the stairs. One of the hobgoblins opened his mouth to say something, but cknail shushed him. The storage room had a stone floor and stone walls, so echoes could be unpredictable and any speech might alert the guards no matter how quiet it was. cknail signaled to his minions using hand gestures that he wanted them to follow and then he started moving. He dashed out from behind the barrels and over to a pile of crates. From there, he crawled across the ground until he reached another bunch of barrels, and then he peeked out to look around. The guards didnt react at all. They hadnt seen him or heard anything suspicious yet.


    There was a problem, though. The doorway the soldiers were guarding had arge open space around it, and there was no way the guards wouldnt see anyone approaching. Thus, a moreplex n was needed. cknail withdrew a pair of small round stones from a pouch on his waist. He then exined the general outline of his n to his minions using hand signals. Once they got the idea, cknail tossed a rock. It flew close to the ground before hitting a crate on the far side of the room. There was a thud as it bounced off the wood and then ttered noisily against the stones of the floor.


    What was that? one of the guards asked as he looked over towards the noise.


    The other man shrugged. It was probably a rat or something. Im sure there are heaps of the nasty beasts in this disgusting excuse for a city. I cant wait to leave this crap hole behind.


    Im going to check it out.


    Why? Were not here to protect some merchants stock from vermin. Our orders are too make sure the prisoner doesnt go anywhere.


    I know, but I still want to check it out. The rats get huge in these parts, and it might be something else, the first guard said as he stared suspiciously at the source of the noise.


    Like what, a goblin? I think the rat would be more dangerous.


    I wont know until I look, but with a blood mage having been loose in this city for years I dont want to take any chances.


    This argument seemed to resonate with the second guard. He grimaced sourly. Gods forsaken blood mages. We should have already killed this one. They are vile.


    Not our call, the first man replied as he walked carefully away from the door and toward the pile of crates the noise hade from. He had a wary hand ced on the sword hilt at his waist.


    Hispanion watched him move forward, and thus they were both looking directly away from the hobgoblins position. cknail shed his minions the go signal and thenunched himself into action. He jumped over the crates he was hiding behind and when his boots hit the basement floor he was already sprinting forward. As cknail dashed towards the guard at the door, he pulled his sword loose.


    Both men were still looking the other way so they saw nothing, but the guard by the door heard something and turned to look cknails way. He froze for a second at the sight of three running hobgoblins and didnt seem to know what to do, as if he doubted his eyes. A brief instantter, he opened his mouth to shout something, but cknail had already closed the distance between them. His sword sliced through the air and towards his targets neck.


    What? The guard gasped as he managed to jump backwards out of the way of the attack. However, the hurried action left him off bnce.


    cknail adjusted his stance and turned his sh into a thrust. The tip of his de cut into the mans throat and silenced him. However, the brief scuffle had made more than enough noise to draw the attention of the second guard. He turned to see what was going on, only to be tackled by the other two hobgoblins. Their momentum sent him sprawling over sideways, and there was a loud crack as his helmeted head smacked against the stone floor. The blow stunned the guard for a moment, and that was all the time the hobgoblins needed. Knives appeared in their hands and almost instantly sank deep into his exposed flesh. He was dead within seconds, without having managed to shout or give any warning.


    The man cknail had stabbed in the neck was also no longer among the living. Blood was slowly seeping out of the guards bodies as cknail walked over the corpse in front of him and inspected the door. It was a thick wooden barrier with a cast iron doorknob and keyhole. He turned the handle, but it didnt budge. It was locked.


    Look for a key, he ordered his minions as he turned to look at them.


    Almost immediately one of the hobgoblins held up a thick iron key and gave cknail a happy grin. Since they had started looting the fallen guards body the second it had hit the floor it hadnt taken them long to find it. cknail took the key and inserted it into the lock.


    Watch this carefully. It is very difficult and you may need to exin it to the others, he exined as he showed the watching hobgoblins how to unlock a door.


    And that means it will open now? one of the minions asked as the lock clicked.


    cknail turned the handle again and pushed the door open ever so slightly before responding. Yes, but you need the right key. They are not all the same.


    A push caused the door to swing fully open, and the hobgoblins were greeted by the sight of a small windowless room that had beenpletely dark until the door had been opened. In the center of the room was a small table that was just big enough to sit two people, and there were in fact two chairs on opposite sides of it, and in one of those chairs was Avorlus. The mage was tied to the back of the seat and there was a cloth gag stuffed into his mouth. cknail could hear the mage breathing ever so quietly but he didnt move or look up at the intrusion into his chamber. He seemed to still be unconscious.


    This human smells like the person we are looking for, one of the minions remarked as they wall walked into the room.


    Its him. He is the mage Im hunting, cknail answered as he smirked triumphantly. He had found the maker of Elixirs. Now he just had to get out of here with him intact.


    At cknails order, one hobgoblin grabbed Avorlus feet and the other grabbed his torso. They then flipped him into their shoulders where they could carry him with ease. The jostling failed to wake him up, but there didnt seem to be anything wrong with him.


    Can we leave now? one of the hobgoblins asked.


    Yes, lets do that, cknail replied. He didnt feel the need to stick around either.


    With cknail in the lead and their cargo safely acquired, the hobgoblins hurried back out of the side room and then over to the stairs. cknail went up first to make sure the hallway was empty, and then they rushed through the building and upstairs.


    Who is that? I hear a lot of movement, one of the guards at the entrance asked after the hobgoblins had run past.


    The hobgoblins ignored them as they raced through the upstairs hallway to the room where they had entered. The sentry they had left behind was waiting for them there, and the shop wasing alive behind them. They didnt have much time before someone investigated this room. A lot of people were now moving down below and talking amongst themselves. The ho nest had been well and truly kicked now, so cknail wasted no time. He leaned out the window and whistled. Right away, several hobgoblins stepped out of the shadows on the street below.


    Catch the human, he told them as he signaled the minions behind him forward.


    The two hobgoblins holding Avorlus immediately dumped the unconscious mage out of the window. He plummeted down to the ground, but right before he hit, three hobgoblins managed to dive forward and catch him.


    Good work! cknailughed as he jumped out the window. Hended on the cobblestones below feet first and then rolled to reduce his impact.


    Without waiting for orders, the hobgoblins still up in the room jumped out after him as well. They were just in time. Light red out of the second story window as someone with amp or light stone stormed into the room.


    Someone just jumped out the window. Theyre on the street below! an irate sounding woman yelled from up above.


    Run, and dont forget the mage! cknail shouted as he followed his own advice.


    He took off at a sprint away from the shop and deeper into the twisting alleys of Daggerpoint. His minions, including two that had picked up Avorlus, were right behind him. Together, they slipped away into the shadows as the front entrance to the shop burst open and human soldiers began pouring out.


    Dont let them get away! someone roared.


    cknailughed gleefully as he turned a street corner. The sound echoed off the buildings and back toward the shop, where it undoubtedly reached the ears of the guild soldiers. There was no way any humans were going to catch him now. It was still so early in the morning that it was dark out, and he had too much of a head start. Avorlus was his, and that meant that the power at cknails fingertips would soon grow stronger than ever, and power was meant to be used.

 A Familiar Fate 5

    A Familiar Fate 5


    The hobgoblins under cknailsmand carried Avorlus through the back alleys of Daggerpoint. At first they heard shouts and the stomp of boots as guild soldiers tried to follow them, but they soon lost any sign of pursuit. cknail led the way out of the merchant quarter and into a rundown residential section. The slums streets were narrow and dirty, and many of the small homes here were obviously derelict.


    Daggerpoint had a huge human poption, but it wasnt overflowing with people. It seemed like its poption had shrunk over time, although cknail had no idea why. It wasnt the sort of thing that he usually thought about, but as he led his minions past an old abandoned wagon that was missing a wheel, several notions shed through his mind. Maybe it was because the city humans had gottenzy and couldnt protect themselves from the beasts in the forest anymore?


    The sun wasing up, so before too many people started taking to the streets, cknail chose an isted building on an empty block. The door had fallen off so the hobgoblins just marched inside. The small home had been stripped clean of furniture and was obviously water damaged because of a leak in the ceiling. It also didnt smell great inside, but this was Daggerpoint, so that wasnt a surprise. cknail expected that some of his hobgoblin minions would suffer permanent damage to their ability to smell before they left, especially if they kept sniffing spices.


    Once Avorlus had been thrown inside, cknail got his minions busy doing work. He needed some items, and he wasnt going to go get them himself. That wasnt what leaders did. Minions were also sent out to form a perimeter. If the guild soldiers showed up anywhere nearby cknail wanted to know about it, before they started raining down fire and blowing up buildings. Those hobgoblins that had good disguises and half decent acting skills were also given orders to gently but firmly send away any approaching citizens, under threat of pain and death.


    Soon, the hobgoblins had acquired most of the things cknail wanted. A nket was hung over the door, two simple wooden chairs were acquired from nearby, and someone fetched a bucket of water. cknail took a seat in one chair while two of his minions picked Avorlus off the ground and sat him down in the other. A third minion then dumped the bucket of water over Avorlus face, while the other hobgoblins stood back behind him.


    As the water washed over him and then sshed down onto the floor, the mage came awake. It had been very cold water, and it got a strong reaction. Avorlus eyes snapped open and he jerked forward in what looked like an attempt to stand. However, he was still tied up and a hobgoblin was standing behind him and holding him in ce, so he didnt get very far. All Avorlus could do was flop back onto the chair and look around. There wasnt much to see in the dark room so he quickly noticed cknail sitting in front of him. His eyes narrowed as he stared hatefully at the form before him.


    You may as well kill me. I wont tell you anything! You have no right to the secrets I have discovered. You are parasites and vermin that feed upon the wonders of magic! You guilds exist only to stifle the works of your betters and hoard power you dont deserve, he cursed. One day real seekers of knowledge will rise up and destroy you!


    What? cknail considered his words for a moment before carefully replying. I think youre confused. Im obviously not with the guilds.


    Youre not? Avorlus remarked in surprise as he stared at cknail. He seemed to be having trouble seeing.


    No, Im a hobgoblin. I dont think your mage guilds have many of us.


    Avorlus froze and one of his eyes twitched. What?


    Im green and I have pointy ears, cknail exined as he pointed to the tips of his ears.


    Oh, um its dark in here and my vision is still a little blurry. I think someone bashed me over the head


    cknail looked around. It was fairly dark in here. He had forgotten how bad human eyesight could be in dim lighting.


    I can help you with the light, cknail replied as he motioned for a minion to go remove the nket from the door. He had just put it there to make sure no one could see inside, but it probably wasnt necessary.


    With the sheet gone a lot more light streamed into the room. Avorlus looked around and gulped nervously. He didnt seem all that happy to be out of the clutches of the guild. I see that youre all hobgoblins. Thats interesting


    Im the leader, cknail told him. It was important that everyone knew that.


    Suddenly, Avorlus sat up straighter and his eye narrowed in understanding as a realization hit him. You must be that hobgoblin of Mahediums. I cant think of any other reason you would want to abduct me, and I dont know of any other hobgoblin that can talk and such.


    I can talk just fine, Scamp interjected, before cknail shut him up with angry look.


    cknail then turned back to Avorlus and hissed angrily. I never served that traitor. I was Herads favourite.


    A neutral expression overcame Avorlus face and he leaned back. Ah, sorry. That was a slip of the tongue. I apologize.


    Dont do it again.


    I wont. Do you mind answering some questions? Like where am I and how I got here? I must admit to being rather confused. Thest thing I remember is the guild assault on my hideout, Avrolus asked in a careful tone.


    I rescued you from those guild people after they had caught you. Now, we are hiding in Daggerpoint.


    Ah, and why did you do that?


    Because were friends! cknail exined as he smiled cheerfully. You helped Herad and me out before so I helped you.


    So youre going to let me leave?


    Of course, but as your friend and ally I cant let you walk back into danger. Thats not what a true friend would do.


    I see, so if I said I would like to meet with some people?


    Too dangerous. Those guild soldiers could be anywhere.


    And if I said I wanted to join a caravan leaving the city?


    Too dangerous.


    So Im your prisoner, Avorlus stated tly.


    No, thats silly. Im just going to send you to a safe ce where the bad guild people wont be able to find you. As your friend, it is the least I can do!


    I cant say I like this development all that much, but at least it seems like Im not going to be tortured to death today. Thats an improvement anyway.


    Everything bes better when I show up! cknail agreed.


    Avorlus sighed. Ive avoided the guild and bing anyones servant for almost forty years, and now this. Ive lost everything and been kidnapped by primitives.


    Not kidnapped, I liberated you! cknail replied. He was mildly annoyed that Avorlus wasnt understanding the difference.


    Well if you want me to stay that way there is something you should know. The guild will probably be able to track my location using magic, so we need to get moving right away.


    How will they do that? cknail had never heard of magic that could be used to find things. That was what noses were for.


    My attackers had ample opportunity to collect some of my blood, and I undoubtedly bled somewhere they can ess. With that and the right mana stone they can make a bloodpass, which will point in my direction. The technique ismon among guild hunters.


    Thats not good, cknail remarked as he began to think. If it pointed in Avorlus direction The city isnt safe. Its too easy to sneak up and surround us. I will have to send you out into the Green.


    You want to send me out into the forest? Avorlus asked in rm. The Green is full of dangerous beasts and who knows what other terrors!


    It will be safer for you there. My minions live out there and know how to survive, unlike the men chasing you. You will be fine.


    You have a point, Avorlus remarked reluctantly.


    I have several, and I keep them sharp, cknail replied as he stroked the hilt of a dagger at his waist. It was one of his favorites.


    I dont doubt that, Avorlus said as he frowned thoughtfully and looked up. Im more curious about what you want with me, though. What is it that you''re up to and how can I help you with it? Last I heard, Herad was dead and her forces had been scattered.


    cknail met Avorlus gaze with a steely look of his own. I want to kill those that destroyed my old tribe, including the traitor Mahedium. You know how to make my Elixir, and I need more of it, lots more of it.


    I suppose I dont mind helping you with that. Its actually in my own interest, although I clearly dont have much choice, Avorlus huffed as he looked down at the ropes encircling his torso. The timing of the Fiery Eyes sudden interest in me is highly suspicious. Id just turned down an invite from Mahedium and his backers. They wanted me to join them in creating a sort of secret guild that answered to them. I said no  I serve no one but myself - and then all sorts of troubles began cropping up to hinder me. They werent subtle, but they were obviously too afraid to face me and my allies here in Daggerpoint directly, so I underestimated how far they would go to monopolize magical knowledge in the North.


    Our enemies are the same, cknail agreed. Mahedium betrayed Herad so that he could join up with the Wolf.


    And the merchants that support the Wolf, the Broken Wheel.


    Yes, them. They were the ones that gave the Wolfs minions gold when Herad was here in Daggerpoint. They used it to buy troops.


    Theyve done a lot more than that. The Broken Wheel and Werrick control everything in the North now, either directly or from behind the scenes. These are very powerful people that youve decided to raise your de against. What makes you think you stand a chance?


    I have my minions here, and many more of them as well.


    You will need more than hobgoblins.


    I have a lot of human minions, and a vast territory I control, cknail bragged. It wasnt his fault that most of the humans that worked for him were too stupid to realize that they did, and he did control a vast territory, even if it was almost all empty forest on the edge of the frontier that no one else wanted.


    But do you have somewhere that I can do my work safely?


    Yes, I even have a minion that knows many of Mahediums secrets. He makes crystals for me.


    Do you now Avorlus replied with obvious interest.


    Yes, I do, cknail told him. Avorlus would undoubtedly be surprised when he learned who cknail was talking about, but it was the truth.


    Avorlus grinned. It seems we can help each other. Im curious about something, though. When you liberated me, did the hunters ever see your faces?


    I think so. They probably saw something. We had to kill a few of them. Why do you want to know? cknail asked. Was this a bad magic thing? Could they be tracked somehow?


    Avorlus smirked evilly. No real reason. I just wish I could see the look on their superiors face when they hand that report in.


    If Avorlus was telling the truth about the bloodpass then unwantedpany was probably going to arrive soon, so cknail ordered several of his minions to take the mage out into the forest right away. They had a campsite out in the Green nearby that they had used on the way here, and it would be impossible for the guild to get close to it without being seen.


    Youre noting with us, boss? Scamp asked. He had been selected to lead Avorlus guards, because cknail didnt want him around.


    cknail grimaced. No, I have to meet with a human, a very dangerous one.


    Oh, they must be very super scary, Herah remarked in surprise. She had also been personally selected to guard the mage. cknail had a strong feeling that things would be much simpler if she were out of the way for this next part, and he trusted his instincts.


    They are. Be very grateful you dont have to meet them, cknail replied as he sent his minions on their way.


    When they were gone, cknail sighed and rubbed his eyes. He had been putting this part of his mission off, but he didnt have any more excuses. He needed information on Werrick and this Broken Wheelpany. More than that, he needed to understand a lot of things about human, their society, and theirnds that were mysteries to him right now. Such things hadnt concerned him before, but ever since the battle at Shelter he hade to realize how ignorant he was. That had to change.


    cknail hissed in frustration. As much as he wished that he could just attack some random important looking humans for information that was unlikely to work. He knew of only one person that would know about Werrick and all the other stuff he needed. He was going to have to visit Luphera.


    You stay here and guard this ce. I will be back soon, cknail told the dozen hobgoblins that hadnt gone with Avorlus. He expected some of them to sneak out and explore the city the second he left, but hopefully they would at least organize some sort of watch. Right now, he was too distracted to care, though.


    You dont want anyone to go with you? one of the guards asked.


    I really dont, cknail answered grimly. There was no way he wanted any of his minions around when he visited Luphera. Not that he cared what they thought, but they would be putty in her hands, unlike him. cknail was known for his iron self-control.


    After leaving the other hobgoblins behind, cknail walked out onto the street and began making his way to Lupheras home. He hoped she still lived in the same ce. Having to search for her would be annoying.


    The sun had fully risen above the horizon now, but cknail didnt bother sulking through the shadows. With his hood up he was just another private individual. In the slums, the few people he passed ignored him. This wasnt surprising since half of them looked even more suspicious than he did. One man in dirty brown clothes was dragging a sack that made a coughing noise as cknail walked by. The hobgoblin was tempted to seize the sack and see what was inside, but he had to prioritize.


    The street he was on led him past rows of small homes and onto arger road lined by stalls and shops. This still wasnt the best part of the city but it was an improvement. There were a lot more people milling around here, but no one gave cknail trouble. He looked down to hide his face, stepped into the crowd, and made his way through them. He passed by colorful peddlers, confident thugs, and tired-looking workers as merchants hawked their wares from nearby stalls. cknail made sure he kept an eye out for children so he could avoid them. Almost all the small humans were thieves out to steal his shinnies, but they werent the biggest hazard. The real danger was the carts or horses being led around. cknail distrusted horses. They were vile creatures that stank like death and their eyes shone with hatred. He made sure he didnt go anywhere near them so they couldnt kick or bite him.


    Eventually cknail passed through several different sections of the city and found himself standing outside therge building that Luphera shared with lots of other scantily d women. There was a bald man in a red vest guarding the door. He was taller and much more muscr than most human men, and he probably weighed three times as much as a hobgoblin. cknail considered walking up and beating him to a pulp, just to prove that he could. However, Luphera had reacted badly thest time he had hurt one of her employees. Should he just go up and ask to see her? She would undoubtedly want to see him, but would they actually tell her that he was here?


    cknail decided to just sneak in through the back. That was what he had done every other time and it had worked out fine, even though hed had to fight his way through a small army of assassins once. It was unlikely to happen twice though, so cknail headed around to the alley behind the building and climbed inside the window that led to Lupheras bedroom. It was empty. The fancy looking room with its ornate furniture and huge four post bed looked much the same, but it smelled very different. Not only was the scent of Lupheras unique perfume gone, but the womans own scent had been reced by that of an unfamiliar woman.


    This isnt good, cknail mused to himself as he examined the room. He didnt find any treats or signs of Luphera, just lots of silky clothes.


    As cknail was examining a particrly frilly piece of clothing he had found in a drawer, someone knocked on the suites door. The hobgoblin sat up. The bedroom door that led to the sitting room was open, so cknail got ready to hide.


    cknail, the mistress invites you to join her, a man politely announced from outside the suite.


    How? cknail hissed to himself in confusion. They knew he was here? What? That didnt make any sense. There was no way somezy city humans had seen him! He was a master sneaker of peerless skill.


    Slowly, cknail got up and made his way over to the suite door. He could hear rxed breathing from the other side but that was it. The man there wasnt moving and seemed perfectly willing to wait for him.


    The hobgoblin hesitated and then opened the door. It swung open to reveal a thin older man with a neatly trimmed grey mustache who nodded respectfully in wee. He was wearing a tidy outfit with ck pants, a white shirt, and a red vest.


    Er, hello. cknail greeted him.


    Hello to you as well. This way please. The mistress is waiting, the servant replied as he gestured down the hall. He was wearing white gloves and he didnt seem surprised in the slightest by cknails appearance.


    cknail shrugged and began walking in the indicated direction. It wasnt like he had any better options, and he was used to being confused and irritated whenever Luphera was involved.

 A Familiar Fate 6

    A Familiar Fate 6


    The prim servant with the mustache and the fancy clothes led cknail around a corner and down to the very end of the hallway. He then stepped to the side and gestured towards the door there.


    The mistress is waiting just inside for you, he announced politely. cknail resisted the urge to wipe the pleased look off his face by kicking him in the groin.


    Instead, the hobgoblin stared at the door for a moment, before sighing and pushing it open. He would have much preferred it if hed been able to sneak in, instead of being invited like this. All this preparation for his arrival resembled a trap far too much for hisfort. Luphera probably didnt want to kill him, but that didnt mean her intentions would be in his best interest, especially if she got handsy. She had tricked him into doing things for her more than once. Not this time, though. cknail had changed. He was going to stay in control of the situation. He was a leader now, and he wasnt going to let a human woman tempt him into doing anything that undermined his pride.


    The door in front of cknail swung open to reveal avish sitting room that was muchrger than the one in Lupheras old suite. Tasteful bits of ornate furniture ringed the room and art decorated the walls. A pair of cushioned couches sat in one corner and there was a long low table in front of them. The first thing cknail noticed was the tes of food on the table. The second thing he noticed was that Luphera was sprawled out on one of the couches. She wasying on her side in a bold butzy posture, and she smiled confidently as cknail walked in. As per usual, she was wearing thin silk clothes that revealed the shape of her. Although this time they were blue and instead of a dress she had on loose trousers.


    After studying her for a moment, cknail shifted his gaze and focused on her eyes. Looking at her body muddled his thinking, but her eyes revealed her intelligence and confidence. Luphera had power. It wasnt the type of power that cknail was used to, but it was very real and very dangerous. cknail had to concentrate on that, and not on the curviness of her hips


    Ah, cknail. Id been hoping that youde visit me again. It has been so very boring here without my favorite gentleman caller around. I found myself longing for the excitement of yourpany, Luphera said as the door behind cknail shut with dull final thump.


    Luphera continued to smile invitingly as she sat up and pushed some of her long blonde hair behind her ear. As she moved, the long neck of sleeveless shirt shifted and more of her ample bosom was exposed. cknail did is best to focus on her eyes.


    How did you know I was here? he asked her. That was still bugging him.


    Lupheraughed. I deal in information and I have people everywhere.


    Thats not an answer.


    If you want something from me then you need to pay for it, although this wont cost you much. You just need to stop being so rude and greet me properly, Luphera replied in a yful tone. cknail didnt like being told what to do - he was a leader, not a minion- but this was just a small thing.


    Its good to see you again, Luphera. You smell as nice as ever, cknail said as he grinned at his host. The scent of her perfume filled the room and was hard not to notice.


    Thank you, please hang your cloak and jacket on the hook by the door. They arent needed. Its nice and warm in here, she replied as she gestured towards a brazier that was sitting in the far corner of the room.


    After forcing himself not to growl, cknail did as she had asked. It was warm in here, and again this was a perfectly reasonable and normal request for her to make. Taking off his jacket made him feel exposed for some reason, though.


    As he turned around to face Luphera again, she got up from the couch and walked over to him. cknail couldnt help but notice how her hips swayed as she walked. Herahs didnt move like that. Wait, why was heparing them?


    See that wasnt so hard, Luphera remarked as she picked something up off a cab and handed it to him. These are for you. Think of them as a gift from someone looking to please a handsome leader.


    Receiving a gift thrilled cknail. Obviously, Luphera knew how amazing he was, and she had mentioned that he was leader! cknail took the items and looked them over. It was a full set of clothes, including socks. They were nice looking if very different from what he usually wore, much softer. The shirt was white and long-sleeved. The pants were ck and surprisingly snug. Usually human clothes were very loose on him and fit poorly, although that wasnt surprising since every piece of clothing he owned had been looted from dead people.


    Luphera smiled invitingly. Try them on.


    Right now? cknail asked uncertainly. He wasnt usually concerned about nudity. Until his master had taught him otherwise, he had spent most of his life running around naked, but he liked the idea of having as many barriers as possible between himself and Luphera right now.


    Well, youre not loitering around here in those dirty rags. This is a ssy establishment. The least you can do is wear something clean.


    cknail grimaced. His clothes werent dirty! Sure they had dirt on them, but it was the good kind. They barely stank at all, especially whenpared to humans.


    Most humans dont like people changing in front of them, cknail pointed out. Hed had this exined to him several times. Vorscha in particr had told him she didnt want to see his skinny green ass, even though she had usually been very practical for a human. He missed her.


    Its nothing I havent seen before, Luphera replied. She twittered with obvious amusement.


    Can I change in the next room? cknail asked. It might be better to y this safe.


    I can hardly stop you, Lupheraughed. However, why would you bother? Are you afraid of little me?


    cknail was not afraid of anyone. He huffed and immediately began disrobing. However, when he looked up to see Luphera licking her lips he had to suppress a shudder. It was possible he may have just been tricked, so he pulled on his new clothes as quickly as possible.


    Yes, these look quite good on you, Lupheramented as she walked over and adjusted his clothing a bit. It was definitely worth all the trouble of having them custom made anding up with a style to fit your figure and features. You look absolutely chilling, like a uniquely sophisticated beast.


    cknail held very still as she smoothed out some wrinkles on his shirt. His new clothes were so soft they almost tickled his skin. It was distracting. He had never worn anything like them before.


    Will you tell me how you knew I was here now? he asked. He really wanted to know. It didnt seem possible.


    Yes, of course, since youre being so well behaved. Its notplicated, Luphera replied as she walked back over to her couch and sat down. When I received word of a figure matching your description being seen around Daggerpoint again, I immediately ced that window you entered through under surveince by someone in the neighboring building. Youve used it every time youvee to visit me.


    Im too sneaky. No one could have seen me, cknail countered gruffly. Although, he supposed they might have noticed another hobgoblin that wasnt nearly as handsome as him and somehow mistaken them.


    There were a few other hints that you were back in the city as well, such as the arrival of a group of Herads old minions and some ratherrge explosions.


    cknail huffed. So it was Geralhds fault. The explosions didnt have anything to do with me. I just watched them.


    Yet we tend not to see very many destructive disys of magic such as those in this city, except for some reason when youre around. You have a way of livening up the ce, Luphera said as she leaned sideways against the arm of the sofa she was sitting on.


    Im just notzy, unlike some people, cknail told her.


    I find the excitement you bring to be one of your more charming traits. But surely you have some other questions. s, you never just visit for the pleasure of mypany.


    Oh, right. He was here for a purpose. cknail scratched his nose and considered what to say. Maybe he should try to turn the tables a bit and be charming. He was so handsome that it had to work, especially with his nice new clothes.


    I dide just to see you. Youre the best smelling human in the entire city, and youre also so smart. You know practically everything, he told her as he put on his most charming smile. He wasnt sure how effective it would be since he had never tried it before.


    Luphera pouted. So you dont want anything from me?


    Everyone wants stuff from everyone else. Humans and hobgoblins are the same that way, although hobgoblins are more honest and direct about it, cknail replied. They usually just took what they wanted without asking.


    Like you are right now? Luphera asked with an amused smile.


    Exactly! Impletely honest.


    Luphera sat up and patted the surface of the sofa next to her. Well, if youre here to rx and enjoy some conversation with the best smelling woman in Daggerpoint why dont youe sit down.


    cknail hesitated. He may have made a tactical error. Was it toote to flee for his life? He didnt want to get too close, but on the other hand that was where the food was and he was getting sort of hungry. There was even a te of cheese slices


    It didnt seem like he had much of a choice, so cknail sighed quietly to himself and reluctantly walked over to sit stiffly down next to Luphera. Then he helped himself to a slice of cheese. It was very good, but cknail wondered how much it was going to cost him.


    Now, what did you want to talk about? Im shivering in anticipation of your conversational topic of choice, Luphera whispered as she leaned up against cknail and titled her head so that it rested against his shoulder.


    Um, so how are things here? cknail asked her. He was being subtle and indirect.


    Lupherea suddenly sat up straight so that she wasnt leaning against him anymore. Ha, theyve been better. Business has been good, especially the physical part. There is more money moving through the city now, but my real area of interest has been drying up. There is a lot less intrigue in a city controlled by one man. Everyone is holding their breath and waiting to see what happens next.


    Werrick rules Daggerpoint, cknail remarked in a deliberate attempt to steer the conversation. Being subtle was easier than hed thought it would be.


    Ruling is probably too strong of a word, but yes, Luphera replied with sly smile. All the remaining bandit chiefs and gang lords have bent the knee. He left a lieutenant and the man is nominally in charge of the city, although the Governor still runs the inner district as before.


    What about you?


    Im neither a bandit nor a gang lord. I wasnt asked to swear to anyone, and if something mysterious and assuredly fatal happened to Werrick or his men I would quietly cheer and uncork a bottle of my best wine. The city is growing boring and stale. There are no opportunities for me to prosper in such a ce.


    This lieutenant, where does he live and what is his security like? cknail asked in as neutral a tone as he could manage.


    Luphera leaned back, raised a leg, and ced a bare foot on cknails thigh. Oh, why would you want to know that?


    You made me curious? cknail replied uncertainly as he stared at her manicured toes. He didnt want to give himself away, but it was hard to focus.


    Well, Ill do my best to satisfy your curiosity then. The name of Werricks top man in the city is Cedric. Hes holed up in a mansion on the edge of the inner district, and he has quite a few guards, although he relies far more on borrowing Werricks strength than using his own. He doesnt have nearly the forces necessary to keep everyone else in line, Luphera exined before going into more detail.


    She withdrew her foot and continued talking for several minutes. cknail nodded along. asionally he grabbed a piece of fruit or cheese from the table as he listened.


    Is your desire for knowledge sated now? Luperha asked once she was done speaking. She


    No, I dont know much about Werrick, other than the obvious. I bet you do, though.


    Ah, there is an interesting man, even if he isnt my type. Ive met him only once briefly, but hes too important for me not to have learned everything I can about him. Before I reveal anything more though, how about you do some sharing of your own? Its only polite for you to entertain your host.


    Me? What do you want to know about? cknail asked in surprise.


    Yes, you. I find you absolutely fascinating. Youve never told me anything about yourself. Im sure its a riveting story.


    A frown appeared on cknails lips as he thought back. Hed spent most his life a tiny goblin in a sewer. He didnt feel like sharing this story, so he twisted the truth a little instead.


    I wandered the wilds South when I was younger, he exined to start off his story.


    Luphera listened to him make stuff up until he finished with his arrival in Daggerpoint the first time. What have you been up to since ourst meeting? You were part of Herads band, but Werrick wiped them out. Obviously, you survived.


    Yes, I survived, although my master Saeter didnt. Werrick killed him, cknail hissed. He couldnt help himself from showing some anger as the emotion flooded over him.


    s, so Saeter really is dead. He was quite the man if half the stories about him were to be believed.


    He was the best man in the entire world, and I will avenge him, cknail replied as his eyes narrowed in fury.


    A sh of interest appeared within Lupheras eyes but then it quickly disappeared. She reached out and put aforting hand on the hobgoblins shoulder. But how did you survive?


    cknail mentally went through some sword drills to calm himself down. Saeter had been the one to teach them to him. Im very hard to kill. I fought Werrick but had to go save some of my human minions. I guided them through the forest. None of Werricks men could hope to catch me in the Green.


    Luphera sighed dramatically. The endless Green, so close and yet so unreachable. You have such interesting tales of it. Here in Daggerpoint, it lurks just out of sight and we try not to think about it, yet it has all of us city dwellerspletely surrounded. We could visit it at any time, but only the ndest of its edges. We would never survive the journey to its heart, where its true splendors await.


    Mostly its full of trees and things that want to eat you, cknail pointed out.


    Luphera rolled her eyes. Werricks attack on Herad was months ago. Where did you go after that?


    I found a safe ce out in the woods, and made some human friends. They liked me because I helped them kill some other humans.


    Such is the way of the world, Lupheraughed. But Id heard that you have some other friends as well. Where did you find them?


    She was probably talking about the hobgoblins. cknail shrugged without concern. If she knew about them then she knew about them. I just sort of found them out in the forest. Im a natural leader so they decided to follow me around.


    Luphera leaned over and stroked cknails nose with a yful finger. And now youre here seeking vengeance with new friends and allies. You seem very confident. Since youre so smart and such a great leader, surely you have some other exciting resources that you havent told anyone about.


    cknail shivered in delight. I have a cave full of gold and some mages.


    That is so interesting. I knew you wouldnt disappoint me.


    cknail groaned. Why had he admitted that? The gold was supposed to be a secret. Luphera was starting to get to him, and her sweet perfume was starting to clog up his brain. He needed to steer the conversation back to where he wanted it to go.


    Can you tell me about Werrick now?


    Of course. Id be d to help my favorite hobgoblin, Luphera answered as she snuggled in close to him. Werrick was the second son of a minor noble that heldnds on the western border of Hulgaron. While he was away fighting for his country his familynds were decimated by the war with Eloria. When news reached him he deserted and managed to convince his entire squad toe along. He then came north and set himself up as a bandit captain, but even then he wasnt satisfied. His drive and ambition pushed him to seek out more power and prestige for himself.


    What does he want? He is already the most powerful chieftain cknail asked her. He wanted to understand his enemy.


    Well, I cant read his mind, but I imagine he wants to be a king. He is a man of noble stock after all. Normally such a thing wouldnt be possible, but these arent normal times. Whats left of the border lords are holed up in their castles and little more than bandits themselves, and the neighboring countries have bled themselves dry in their wars.


    How is a king different form a chief, and what wars are we talking about? cknail asked. He barely understood some of the terms and references she was using, and he felt like the details were important here.


    Well that will take a long time to exin. If you want to know all that then youll have to stay the night, Luphera purred as she grabbed his arm and pulled him closer.


    cknail felt his elbow rub up against Lupheras chest. He suddenly felt an ufortable feeling down below his belly. It was an itch he desperately wanted scratched and Lupheras scent was intoxicating. Desperately, he tried to remember that she was just a fat pink human, but it didnt work. The memory of the soft feel of her skin filled his mind instead. The color suddenly didnt seem all that important, even if green was far superior in every way.


    I guess I should stay then. Its my duty as a leader to learn as much as possible, he told her as he stared at her breasts through her semi-translucent shirt. He was a great leader.

 A Familiar Fate 7

    A Familiar Fate 7


    The terrified scream echoed out from the dark hallway behind cknail and into the building beyond. The now annoyed hobgoblin had been stealthily stalking towards the door that led to his target, but he stopped for a moment and hissed in frustration. One of his minions had messed up. Now the enemy had been warned and the assault had to be sped up. Thankfully this was Daggerpoint and it was still dark out. No one from outside would being to investigate. Getting involved in other peoples problems was a bad survival strategy here.


    We move now. Kill everyone and leave no witnesses, cknail ordered the half dozen hobgoblins behind him before drawing his sword and dashing forward.


    The sound of running feet on wooden floorboards broke the quiet as the inhuman killers abandoned stealth and suddenly began sprinting toward the door at the end of the hallway. cknail reached in first, and he grunted in effort as he kicked it. There was an earsplitting crunch and thud as it burst open, and he dove inside. The room on the other side was dark, but there was enough moonlighting in from one small window that the hobgoblins could make out the outlines of the chambers contents. Rows of beds lined both walls, and most of them were upied.


    What in all the hells, someone yelled as they scrambled out of bed and tried to make sense of what was going on. The other upants of the room were reacting in a simr manner, but it was dark and they had all been asleep until a moment ago, so they were moving slowly and without organization.


    Without pause, cknail lunged forward and cut the closest man down as he fumbled around blindly. Behind him, his hobgoblin minions flooded into the room. des sliced through the shadows and found soft flesh. More screams and curses filled the air as the confused and disoriented humans began to grow terrified. The scent of blood filled the room, and giggles of delight could be heard beneath the screams as the hobgoblins delighted in their grisly work. They were predators in their element.


    Oh, gods. Whats going on? someone pleaded.


    Then, there was a sh as a man at the back of the room managed to light amp. The unexpected illumination flooded into the room, reflected off raised des, and revealed the attackers.


    Shit, themp bearer cursed softly as everyone froze for a brief moment and looked around for the first time. He had just rolled out of bed so he waspletely nude, which made it obvious he was trembling in fear of the sight before him.


    Keep fighting. They are ours, cknail yelled as he stabbed a man that tried to run past him. He didnt want his minions to falter just because the odds had changed a little.


    A big bald man wearing nothing but a loose shirt produced a sword from somewhere. cknail stepped forward to engage him before he could strike out at another hobgoblin. The man hesitated and then swung wildly at cknails head. cknail ducked under the blow and gutted his opponent with a precise horizontal sh. A disbelieving grunt of pain escaped the mans lips as he fell and his guts slipped out of his abdomen. They made quite a mess on the floor.


    As cknail moved on to cut down his next victim, his minions struggled with the other humans. Some of them had dropped or lost their swords and were biting and wing at their opponents. One unlucky hobgoblin was punched in the face by arge pot-bellied man and copsed into a heap. However, cknail advanced up the center of the room and his swift de cut through any resistance that formed. Filled with terror, the humans fought desperately but they were swiftly overwhelmed. Confronted with inhuman opponents that most of them only knew from stories, they didnt plead for mercy as they fell, and cknail didnt give them any. Soon, the floor was drenched in blood and all its former upants were dead.


    Now to the next room, cknail growled as he turned back towards the door. He didnt have time to waste.


    The hobgoblin chieftain ran back out into the hallway and towards his next objective. The attack on Cedrics headquarters was going well. Thanks to Lupheras information cknail knew exactly where everything was. After taking out the sentries in a coordinated attack, he had divided his followers into teams and sent them to take three different objectives. Even now, his minions were rushing through the building and killing all the humans they found. They were outnumbered  Cedric had over fifty men in this building alone - but the hobgoblins had the advantage of surprise and momentum. Quite a few enemies had died in bed or before they could even figure out what was going on in the darkness around them. cknail grinned as he felt a throb of sadistic glee. Hobgoblin night-sight could be very useful if used correctly by a great leader, and he was better than a great leader.


    Another door appeared out of the darkness in front of cknail. He kicked it, but it was unlocked so he lost his bnce as the door mmed into the wall behind it. Cursing, he stumbled forward but then caught himself and looked around the room. This one was already lit by amp. The people within had used the warning they had been given to start to organize, but there were only three of them. cknail was unsurprised. This was Cedrics room, and leaders usually didnt share their chambers.


    What in damnation are you supposed to be? the man in the center of the room swore as he looked cknail over. He matched the description of Cedric, a tall man with short ck hair. The other two residents of the room, a man and a woman who looked like servants, were helping him strap a boiled leather breastte over a simple shirt and trousers that he must have just thrown on.


    Your death, cknail replied with a mirthlessugh and a smile that didnt reach his eyes.


    Cedric grunted as he reached over and picked up a sword of the bed beside him. His servants both finished attaching his breastte. The woman stepped back away with a fearful look on her face, while the male drew a long dagger.


    No, youre that hobgoblin. The one they call the faceless killer. Id heard you were dangerous, but you cant be doing this alone, Cedric remarked as he raised his weapon and took up a defensive stance. It was at that moment that several of cknails minions caught up and slipped into the room behind their boss.


    Their arrival surprised Cedric and he grimaced. That answers my question I suppose.


    Yes, it does, cknailughed as he stepped forward and attacked.


    His opponent easily dodged the blow by leaning back, but cknail turned the sh into a flurry of attacks. Cedric blocked one and then dodged the others, before shing at cknails chest with a two-handed strike. His sword was a longer and heavier weapon, so cknail dodged instead of blocking. Meanwhile, the servant with the knife tried to circle around and get at cknails exposed side, but two hobgoblins intercepted him and forced him back. Another hobgoblin circled around to approach the female servant. Before he got too close though, she pulled out a long knife of her own, and the hobgoblin hesitated.


    There was a metallic ringing as Cedric blocked a downward sh from cknail. The hobgoblin jumped back and looked for an opening. He feinted a stab and turned it into an upward riposte when Cedric tried to parry it. cknails weapon caught on his opponents breastte and then slid up and away without doing any damage.


    Cedric took a step back and red at cknail. What are you here for, creature?


    To deliver a message to your master, all his friends, and all of his enemies, cknail shot back. He was getting a little tired of this fight. It might be time to order his minions to help. He didnt have any Elixir left to burn and he didnt feel like taking any risks.


    Fighting the Wolf is a fools errand.


    cknailughed with dark amusement. Says the man whose corpse will soon be a warning to others.


    Not likely, Cedric growled as he lunged forward andunched a flurry of attacks.


    Both the human servants had managed to keep their hobgoblin attackers away so far, but as the man shed at the hand of one hobgoblin another jumped forward and stabbed him in the gut. He gasped and copsed with the sword stuck in his belly. The woman gasped but didnt drop her guard. This development left Cedrics side exposed to cknails minions. He let up his attack and shifted into a defensive stance.


    You cant fight all of Werricks men. He has allies and friends everywhere. The North belongs to him, the bandit lieutenant told cknail.


    He has no friends in the Green. He has no allies nearby to save you. The North belongs to whoever holds it, cknail replied as he stepped forward. His minions smiled and pressed in to pressure Cedrics nk.


    On the other side, the woman was now desperately iling with her knife. She had kept the hobgoblin assaulting her at bay so far, but she couldnt keep it up. Her assant was ying it safe and constantly feinting with his longer de to wear her out. Suddenly, she stumbled and the hobgoblin facing her reacted. His de sliced down and cut into her arm. She yelped and fell backwards, dropping her weapon as she instinctively clutched her wound. Her opponent followed up by kicking her in the head, and there was a cracking noise as she fell over sideways. Unconscious, she didnt stir as she began to bleed out onto the floor from the gash on her arm. cknail grinned and focused on Cedric. A female opponent was no different from a man to him, and he wasnt even slightly interested in mercy when it came to anyone who worked for Werrick, even indirectly. Mercy was human thing anyway.


    Cedric looked grim now, and he had good reason. He was surrounded by hobgoblins on three sides.


    Why are you doing this? he asked cknail. Werrick will unite thisnd and build something better. He is the greatest man Ive met, and Im sure he could use your skills or at least pay you off.


    I dont care at all. The Wolf attacked my tribe and killed my master. He took what was mine, my most precious things. I can never get them back, so I will take from him in kind, cknail hissed as he motioned for his minions to attack. It was time to finish this. As he lunged forward from the front, cknails followers closed in on Cedric from the other directions.


    You will fail, you pathetic creature, the man growled as he red at cknail.


    Youve already failed, cknail hissed back as he shed at Cedrics front leg.


    The man had no option but to block the attack, and then try to twist away from the other hobgoblins des as they took the opportunity to attack all at once. He failed. With pleased hisses, cknails minions stabbed and shed their opponent. Some of the blows bounced off the breastte, but others sank deep into flesh and cut into organs. Shuddering, Cedric coughed up a mouthful of blood and then tottered over backwards. A momentter, cknail walked over and kicked him in the ribs. He didnt move or appear to be breathing, so the hobgoblin turned away.


    I win, cknail announced to no one in particr as he walked over to the bed and used a sheet to wipe the blood off his de. Now that all the enemies were down, some of his minions copied him. Hed made sure they knew the importance of keeping their des clean.


    Take his breastte off and carry it for me. Its mine now, cknail told one of his minions as he stepped back out into the hallway.


    It seemed like the mission had gone perfectly. Their main target, Cedric, was dead, and it didnt sound like there was anyone still putting up any resistance. cknail walked over to a window and stared out of it. The moonlit rooftops of Daggerpointy before him, and they looked a lot less shabby in the dark. As he stared at the scene, the hobgoblin felt his heartbeat slow and his fury slip away. He took a moment to reflect.


    This was a blow against Werrick. The death of his lieutenant would weaken his hold on the city and make him look weak. A weak chieftain would face many more challengers and have fewer options than one that seemed invincible. cknail could also use the fallout to manipte others into doing what he wanted. Yes, everything was going perfectly, but he didnt feel any better. He was still hollow inside. Werrick was still alive. Saeter was still dead.


    cknail growled and stomped off to organize his minions. Thinking about this was pointless, and the mission wasnt quite over yet. He had meant what hed told Cedric about leaving a message. The ruin and horror he was about to make this building into would be cknails message to Werrick. All his minions already had their orders, and were undoubtedly already fulfilling them, but cknail wanted to make sure they stayed on task.


    Bodies were moved, furniture was torn apart, and everything that was both shiny and light enough to carry was gathered up by hobgoblins as cknail stalked through the building and oversaw the work. His minions went about their tasks with obvious glee and they tried to outdo each other. In one room five mangled bodies had been hung from the roof with rope, while in another the bodies had all been hacked into pieces and strewn all over the room. When it was about time to leave, cknail went back to Cedrics room and cut off the mans head. He carried it by its hair over to the front door, and while all his minions watched, he impaled it on a wooden spike that one of his minions had driven into the ground. No one that approached the building in the morning could fail to notice the bloody detached head, and no one that learned of what had happened inside the building could fail to realize that this hadnt been a normal fight. Word would spread and carry fear and uncertainly with it all the way to Werrick.


    Victory is ours. This is just a taste of things toe, cknail told his gathered minions. I will lead you to all the best and tastiest prizes you can imagine. We will hunt our enemies and spread our tribes territory far and wide!


    The crowd of hobgoblins cheered, and cknail grinned in satisfaction. He knew how to motivate hobgoblins and keep them loyal. He just had to keep on winning, and this had been a great victory. Not a single hobgoblin had died. A few had gotten injured, but that was it. The humans had beenpletely caught off guard and unable to defend themselves as cknails minions had cut them down in the dark.


    Since they had aplished their mission and they had already loitered here too long after making so much noise, cknail led his minions through the streets as it began to grow lighter out. The sun was just beginning to rise. Instead of going to the safe house, they headed toward the city wall. Once there, they climbed over it and slipped out the city. It was possible that they might have picked up some observers and cknail didnt want to lead them back to the safe house. He also wanted to check in on the forest camp. Hed left Herah in charge of watching Avorlus there.


    The birds were signing their morning songs as the victorious hobgoblins slipped into the forest. The streets had been empty and they hadnt run into any problems on the way out of the city. cknail located a familiar animal trail and they followed it through the trees and over to the hill where they had set up the camp. It was only about half an hour from the walls. The only way up the hill from the direction of Daggerpoint was easily watched. It involved using a fallen tree to cross a stream thaty at the bottom of a deep chasm and taking a narrow path up a steep rock face. Thus, they were spotted well before they reached it. cknail had left sentries out to watch in case the guild tried to track down Avorlus. The sentries acknowledged theirpanion''s presence but stayed at their posts as they passed them by.


    Soon enough, cknail reached the top of the hill and saw the camp before him. It was a simple collection of tents that had been set up among somerge rocks, and various bags and piles of looty around the ce. As he had expected, cknail noticed Herah and Avorlus sitting by the firepit, but they werent alone. Something red and annoying was sitting beside Herah. It was Khita What? He had left her behind in Daggerpoint! How could she have possibly found this ce?


    Ah, there you are cknail! I was beginning to think you were never going to show up! the redhead young woman remarked cheerfully as she stood up to greet him.


    How did you get here? cknail spat back in frustration.


    Oh, Herah came and got me. She wanted to talk to me about some stuff.


    What? cknail wasntpletely sure why but he didnt like this development. It smelled like a conspiracy against him.


    I saw that youve captured another mage. I dont know why you want them all, but Im sure you have a n.


    I do and its a great n. This mage knows how to make my Elixir. Hes why I came to this city. I need Elixir to kill my enemies easier.


    Well at least this one isnt tied up and naked, unlike thest. Is it because hes a man?


    Excuse me? Avorlus asked in rm as he threw a nervous look at his captor.


    cknail hissed and stomped the ground in exasperation as he red at Khita. That wasnt me. Imp did that, and it made sense. Who knows what dangerous magic thingies that woman was keeping in her clothes.


    Why did Khita keep bringing this up? During the battle at Shelter, cknail had knocked out the raiders mage. While he had been resting after his glorious victory, Imp and some other hobgoblins had captured her, and then taken some simple andpletely justified safety measures that Khita wouldnt stop bringing up.


    Ah, sure. That sounds believable, the redhead replied as she smirked.


    cknail hissed again. Why did humans have to make something as simple and pure as stripping and tying up your prisoners soplicated? They injected sex into evenpletely innocent activates. It was disgusting. There was a time and a ce.

 A Familiar Fate 8

    A Familiar Fate 8


    Grunting in annoyance, cknail wandered away from the center of the hobgoblins forest camp and sat down on a stone that was right beside his tent. He needed to take a quick break. Being around Khita was tiring, and hed justpleted a difficult mission that had involved a lot of hard fighting and great leadership. He also hadnt gotten a lot of sleepst night  for reasons - and it was still early in the morning. cknail closed his eyes, but he found it difficult to clear his mind. Up in the trees, the birds were singing their morning tunes and incessantly chirping away. He was also not left alone. Khita murmured something to Herah and than wandered over to cknails side.


    He looked up at her and scowled. What do you want?


    To talk to you about some things, Khita replied with a shrug.


    Too bad. Go away.


    She didnt listen. I was just having a chat with Herah.


    My eyes and ears work fine. I knew that, cknail observed derisively.


    Wow, youre grumpy right now.


    Im trying to rest my eyes and think, but youre bugging me, like a bug. Stop buzzing around and go away, cknail replied with a wave of his hand as if to shoo her away.


    Well, youre not busy right now, and this is important.


    Fine, what is it? cknail sighed. It was probably best to deal with Khita quickly so that she would leave him alone.


    Khita smiled gleefully. Right, so I was talking to Herah and she mentioned that youd been avoiding her, even though anyone can see that she wants to jump your bones.


    Thats none of your business. Why do you care? cknail hissed.


    Herah is my friend.


    cknail doubted that, but he humored the redhead. Shes a hobgoblin.


    And you dont find them attractive? What, do you like human women, or men, or something?


    Huh? cknail sputtered in surprise. What was she getting at? Did she know about Luphera?


    Thats nonsense. Stop being so stupid, you ugly human! he quickly shot back. Of course hobgoblins are much better looking than humans. Youre all fat, and pink!


    Then whats the problem? Khita asked.


    cknail rolled his eyes and sneered at her. Hobgoblins cant be trusted. They are devious and violent. Letting them near you is stupid. I cant let her get too close or she might kill me and take my ce as leader.


    Khita gave cknail a perplexed look as she titled her head to the side. Youre a hobgoblin too


    Thats why I know they cant be trusted. cknail exined. No one knew hobgoblins better than he did.


    So the others and I shouldnt trust you?


    Thats different.


    Why?


    cknail hesitated before replying. because Im loyal and amazing, and Im already the leader anyway.


    Khita shook her head. Right, I think youre being stupid and paranoid. Herah is attractive for a hobgoblin, right?


    Yes, cknail answered uncertainly. That was one of the reasons she was dangerous.


    Then you should definitely hook up with her! Just have fun!


    What? Several rather odd and confusing images popped into cknails head. He gave Khita a startled look.


    You should have sex with her, she exined dryly.


    I dont want your advice about this. Go away, stupid girl. Seriously this might be the most annoying conversation cknail had ever had with Khita, and that was saying something.


    Ugh, youre being stupid. Just rx and have fun. Were all going to die eventually, Khita told him as she turned and began walking back to Herah.


    But I have things to do before then, cknail growled at her back.


    Khita didnt know anything. She was human, and not a very smart one. Sure, cknail would have enjoyed ying around with Herah. She had nice pointy ears, and a properly thin body, unlike Luphera, but she was dangerous. cknail could feel it in his bones. More than once, hed caught her looking at him like he was a big juicy steak. That was unnerving. Yet, Luphera couldnt be trusted either and hed messed around with her. cknail could take care of himself, and it was possible that Herah wasnt actually trying to kill him. Perhaps he was just so handsome that she couldnt help but want to be with him and keep him around? He did have the nicest looking nose in the North. Before cknail could think about the situation any more, a hobgoblin appeared at the edge of camp and ran over to him.


    Boss, I found something while I was in the city, the neer announced excitedly.


    Oh? What is it? cknail asked as he looked up. He wasnt going to ask why the hobgoblin had been wandering the city alone, because he already knew the answer. A lot of the hobgoblins were sneaking away to explore. He was also grateful for the interruption.


    A familiar scent, a human. I found someone in the city that was back at our main camp!


    cknail could think of only one person that could be. He stood up and smiled. Oh, really? Take me to them.


    Soon, cknail and some his minions were sneaking back into Daggerpoint. Khita and Herah invited themselves along this time, but cknail ignored them. It was amazing how ineffectual the city wall was at keeping hobgoblins out. They could easily scale it, dig under it, or slip through the gaps in the wood. It didnt seem like anyone ever patrolled or repaired the barrier.


    Im stuck! Khita hissed from where she was bncing atop the wall. She was having a more difficult time slipping into the city and had required a lot of help.


    Just jump down, cknail told her impatiently.


    Its like a three story drop from here! Are you going to catch me?


    No, youre a big fat human. Youd crush me. cknail told her.


    Im not fat! You hobgoblins are just skinny, Khita huffed as she began to slowly climb down. cknail had provided her with a rope but it was still taking her forever.


    When she reached the bottom, the party quickly made their way along several back streets and towards a rundown residential district. They avoided as many people as possible and people avoided them right back. The dirty looking workers and tired women that walked by gave them plenty of space.


    The trail led here, the hobgoblin they were all following said as he came to a stop across the street from an inn. They were standing beside an empty stall that somewhat concealed them from casual observation.


    The inn was a rather shabby structure that looked like it had seen better days. The faded sign over the door bore the image of a cup, or maybe it was a tower? It was hard to tell. cknail took a few moments to think about the best way to approach this situation. Having their entire group walk into the inn would probably be a bad idea. There was no way a whole group of hooded individuals wouldnt draw attention once they were inside. He would probably be fine if he went in with just Khita, but then what would he do once he found his target?


    As cknail was mulling his options, the door swung open and a man stepped out. After exiting the building, he briefly scanned the surroundings, but his gaze swept right over cknails group without concern, and he began walking away from them and down the street.


    Thats him. Follow me, cknail hissed as he set off after the man.


    The hobgoblins and Khita hung back while their target remained in in sight of the public. They watched and waited for several minutes as he wandered the city streets, until finally he stepped off of a main road and into an alley. Instantly, cknail put on a burst of speed and sprinted after him, with his minions in pursuit.


    In the alley ahead, the man began muttering to himself and kicked a bit of trash. Damn, innkeeper. He should be paying me to stay in such dirty rooms. If only those raider bastards hadnt taken almost all my gold.


    Suddenly, he froze as if hed heard something. With a startled look on his face, he turned to look back over his shoulder. He swiftly spotted the cloaked hobgoblins and jumped in surprise.


    Is this about the money? he squealed. Were you sent by Jasper to collect? I dont have it on me, but I swear I can get it. My luck at cards is usually very good. That was just a ime fluke.


    Instead of answering, cknail motioned his minions forward. They jumped on the startled man and began tying him up with rope theyd prepared beforehand.


    Dont kill me! Oh, gods. Ivee too far to die now.


    Once the man waspletely secure and gagged, cknail removed his hood and leaned over. Hey there, Elyias! Its great to see you again. You dont have to worry anymore. It seems like you got lost and couldnt find your way back to Shelter, but your great leader is here to help now!


    Elyias eyes widened and he opened his mouth wide as if to scream - probably in joy  but then a hobgoblin shoved a sock in his mouth. The only sound he could make was a muffled moan, as he chewed the dirty wool and struggled against the two hobgoblins holding him,


    cknail smiled and continued talking. Good thing we found you before this Jasper fellow! It sounds like you were in trouble. Dont worry, though. He wont find you at Shelter.


    As Elyias tired to scream something iprehensible, cknail stood up and ordered three of his minions to take the man back to their forest camp and keep him there. As they left, cknail wondered where the sock hade from


    Why do you even want that loser? Khita asked as she watched Elyias be carried off.


    Hes a friend! We cant just leave him all alone in this dangerous city, cknail exined as he nodded sagely. It was good to help your friends.


    Whatever, now that youve had your fun can we move on to something important?


    Sure, lets go meet up with Gerald and Beardy. When Im not around for too long they get into trouble.


    The inn that cknail hadst seen his humanpanions at was in a much better neighborhood on the other side of town from where they were, so it took a while to walk there. With the others gone, only three hobgoblins were left with them, so they didnt draw too much attention as they walked along the main roads.


    When they reached their destination, cknail left the other hobgoblins outside and entered through the front door with Khita. The ce was mostly empty although there were still a few people around. Most of them seemed to be drinking and keeping to themselves, which suited cknail just fine.


    Ill go up to their rooms. The innkeeper and his employees know me. You should stay down here, Khita suggested.


    Fine, be quick. cknail told her as he looked around for a good ce to sit down.


    He chose a table over in an isted corner. There was no one else near it. As he sat down to wait, Khita walked up the stairs to the second story and out of sight. cknail sighed impatiently, but his boredom was quickly interrupted. A big man who had been drinking at a table across the room got up and wandered his way. He was more fat than muscle but his fists were almost the size of cknails head. It was amazinghow big some humans got.


    Do you think youre so tough just because youre wearing a fancy hood? Its rude indoors, you know, The huge man said as he glowered at the cloaked hobgoblin. His breath reeked of alcohol. What, are you hiding your ugly mug? I think you must be a hideous bastard under that.


    cknail sighed again and shook his head. No, I think Im tough because Ive killed a hundred men like you.


    A knife appeared in the hobgoblins hand as he stood up. His motions were smooth and so frighteningly quick the man barely had time to react. cknail really wanted to work out some frustration by killing this dumb drunk, but that would draw too much attention. Instead, his deshed out at the mans waist. Too quickly to follow, it sliced through cloth and leather while barely grazing the skin beneath.


    Huh? the drunk remarked as his pants suddenly fell down.


    Leave or die, cknail replied as he sat back down without concern.


    The drunk stared at him for moment and then looked down. It took him moment to process what had happened, but when he figured it out he took a quick step back, almost tripped over his pants, and then hurriedly stumbled back to his table as he pulled his trousers back up. There were a few softughs from around the room.


    cknail grunted in amusement as he leaned back in his chair. The incident had gotten the attention of a few people, but they didnt do anything more than look his way and whisper among themselves. However, some of those whispers reached his ears and drew his attention. There were two men seated at a table across the room, and they were talking to each other while deliberately not looking in cknails direction. Both of them looked like any other thug off the street.


    Is that the hobgoblin? one of them asked the other.


    Hispanions whispered back, but cknails ears caught the reply. Probably. Its incredible that it can just walk around like this. Even knowing what to look for I cant tell if its human or not from here.


    If thats it then we should go get the others. Im not going to be getting close enough to peak under that hood, so there is no point in staying around.


    The second thug nodded in agreement, and then they both carefully got up and headed for the door. cknail studied them out of the corner of his eye as he pretended to watch the stairs. They knew, but how? Who were they and where had they learned about him? There was only way to find out. cknail rose to his feet and followed after the humans.


    Once he was outside, he spotted a pair of his hobgoblin minions across the street where he had left them. They also noticed him right away, and he shed them a quick series of hand signals. Upon receiving his orders, the hobgoblins studied the humans that had just left the inn and nodded back to cknail. They then slipped away into an alley and out of sight.


    cknail waited a few moments, and then he began to trail his targets. He kept his head down and made sure there was always a group of people between him and the two men he was following, as he walked through the crowds that hade out to shop or work. People were walking and talking everywhere, and cknail did his best not to stand out as he kept an eye on his quarry.


    Then a few momentster, the two men stepped away from the crowd. They walked over to the shadows near a closed shop and began talking amongst themselves, while asionally scanning the crowd. cknail casually sauntered behind a colorful stall and out of sight. It seemed his targets were worried about being followed, but they were also apparently terrible at searching for pursuers. As cknail watched, three hobgoblins stepped out of the alley behind the men and dragged them into the shadows.


    cknail grinned as he sprinted across the street after them. He slipped into the alley and was confronted by the sight of his minions holding the two men at knifepoint. The humans were holding very still and had their hands up above their heads. Both had hobgoblins behind them with des pressed against their throats.


    Who are you and why were you looking for me? cknail asked them as he stalked over to study them.


    Were just pickpockets, one of the men stammered.


    Thats a lie. Cut off one of his fingers. He has lots of them and if he is stubborn we can remove his toes as well, cknail ordered the third hobgoblin that wasnt holding anyone.


    Wait, no! Ill tell you everything, the thug quickly offered. cknail motioned for the man to continue talking and for his minion to put his knife away.


    Ahh, I wanted a human finger, the hobgoblin whined.


    The first thug wasted no time in spilling his secrets. It was actually impressive how fast he could talk. We were sent here to look for the crew that attacked Cedric. Our boss thought that if we handled you then Werrick would reward us, or at least know we werent involved. He wanted to make sure you werent too much for his gang to swallow first though, so he sent us in to look around beforemitting the rest of the crew.


    And how did you know who attacked Cedric or where I was? cknail asked as he leaned forward to stare into the mans eyes. He was shivering. They were only a few inches apart now, and cknails inhuman appearance obviously terrified him.


    Our boss paid an informant. They told him about you and they said that you were tied to a group of thieves that used to serve the ck Snake, before she got herself wasted. They also told us where to find them, at the inn.


    cknail growled and bared his teeth. Do you have any proof of what you say?


    This development was very unwee. He had been nning on staying in the city for a while and gathering up a lot more supplies and information. If everyone knew who he was and where to find him that would be impossible.


    Um I have this note from the dealer. It has your pals descriptions on it, the first thug answered as he hurriedly pulled a folded piece of paper out of his pocket. The second man red at him but kept quiet.


    cknail took the note and unfolded it while everyone watched him. He took his time to study it carefully, but since he couldnt read all the scribbles meant nothing to him. However, he recognized a very faint scent that clung to the paper. It smelled of exotic flowers. The scent tingled his nose and excited him.


    Kill the one that didnt talk. Let the other go, cknail told his minions.


    The hobgoblins immediately obeyed. The second thug only had time to blink once before his throat was cut. The other stared at his dyingpanion in horror as the hobgoblin behind him backed off.


    Wha why? he asked in confusion.


    So that people know what happens when they go against me and what happens when they cooperate, cknail answered dismissively as he turned to leave.


    The thug stared after him for a second, and then sprinted away down the alley. cknail growled to himself as stomped off out into the street. He had some unwanted yet important things to deal with now. His human friends needed warned, and he needed to deal with a tattletale. This was going to beplicated.

 A Familiar Fate 9

    A Familiar Fate 9


    When cknail got back to the inn everyone was waiting for him. Geralhd, Khita, and Beardy were standing beside the table hed been sitting at, and they looked upset. There was a scowl on Geralhds face and Beardy was grimacing. cknail walked over and nodded in greeting.


    Where did you go? Khita asked. She only sounded slightly annoyed.


    I needed to follow some people and then kill one of them, cknail exined.


    Geralhd winced. Uh, who?


    Are you kidding? Beardy asked as he threw his hands up in exasperation. Youre supposed to be staying out of trouble.


    cknail shrugged. He was a spy for someone who wanted to kill all of you.


    What? Why would anyone want to kill us? Beardy asked. He sounded like he didnt believe cknail.


    Thats what I wanted to find out. When I asked, they said a whole bunch of Werricks men got themselves murdered and chopped up into little bits. They were looking for the people who did it, and someone saw you and remembered that you were Werricks enemy.


    Were not his enemies! Herad is dead and we dont work for her anymore. Were just minding our own business now. We certainly didnt kill any of the Wolfs men!


    That doesnt matter. They thought you were involved and were going to gather some friends so they could capture you for questioning, cknail told him.


    It sounds like you had your reasons for wandering off, but I have to ask, did you kill Werricks followers, Geralhd asked the hobgoblin.


    cknail shook his head. Im just one small hobgoblin, smaller than a human. I dont even have Elixir anymore, and almost a hundred men were killed. I couldnt do that alone.


    Khita gave cknail a knowing look, but Geralhd and Beardy nodded along. On the way to the city, cknails hobgoblin minions had stayed back and out of sight of the human bandits. They had no idea that hed brought them with him.


    Then who did do it? Geralhd mused aloud.


    cknail shrugged and suppressed a smirk. Who knows? Its a mystery.


    The important thing to focus on is how this affects us, Beardy pointed out. If people think were involved in that mess then they are going to bee after us like hungry wolves.


    Geralhd nodded. Youre right, of course. I dont think we can just exin this away, no matter our innocence, especially now that cknail has intervened so aggressively.


    I saved you, cknail pointed out. He didnt want there to be any confusion about that.


    Well, whatever happened, we cant stay here, Beardy remarked. We need to get everyone up and leave this inn immediately, before anyone elsees to look for us.


    Where will we go? Is anywhere in the city going to be safe? Khita asked.


    I dont know this city very well, Geralhd admitted.


    cknail perked up. I do, I know this city very well! Ive even met most the important people in it, some of them are even still alive. Its the information dealers we need to watch out for. They know everyone and have eyes everywhere.


    Is there anywhere we can hide from them?


    I know a lot of abandoned houses we could hide in. There are a lot of dark ces people never go in this city. They are dirty but dry, cknail offered. He knew the humans were too picky to take him up on his offer. Geralhd in particr was a wimp.


    As if to prove cknail right, Geralhd grimaced in disgust. No thanks. It seems like we have no choice but to leave Daggerpoint.


    There was thud as Beardy mmed the table with a closed fist. What! Where will we go? Werrick controls all the cities and towns around here. If he is looking for us then were screwed!


    Khita winked at cknail and then turned to Beardy. He doesnt even know about Shelter, let alone control it.


    You want to go back to that mud pit? We just left! They probably dont even want us there.


    I dont want to go back there anymore than you, the people there are a bunch of nosy hicks, but do we have a choice? There is nowhere else we cany low until this blows over, Khita shot back.


    We have money. We could buy proper supplies and gifts for them, cknail suggested. They would like us if we did that.


    Some good wine would make the stay there much more tolerable, Geralhd mused as he rubbed his chin. He sounded like he was considering the idea and warming up to it.


    I suppose it might not be a terrible ce to hide out, as long as we bring our own supplies, Beardy admitted.


    Tannin was always saying he needed a lot of metal tools. Bringing him some would make the vigers happy, cknail pointed out. They would also serve his own purposes.


    True, but for a haul of that size we will need pack animals to carry it, like some horses, Geralhd pointed out.


    No! cknail hissed loudly. His voice was full of fury and disgust.


    Khita rolled her eyes and Geralhd frowned.


    Why not? Beardy asked in surprise.


    Horses cant be trusted. They are vile smelly beasts. No horses will be going with us to Shelter! cknail replied.


    Geralhd sighed and gave cknail a confused look. Your animosity towards simple animals is misced. Why do you hate them so much?


    cknail growled softly before replying. When I look into their big stupid eyes I see their spirit, it is ck and vile. Theyre selfish beasts full of evil thoughts that enjoy peoples'' pain.


    Thats probably your reflection, Khita remarked with a roll of her eyes.


    cknail red at her. Nuh uh, no its not. You humans are just blind and stupid.


    There was a tired sigh from Beardy. Fine whatever, we will use donkeys instead. You dont have a problem with them, do you?


    No? cknail replied hesitantly. He had no idea what a donkey was, but he wasnt going to admit it.


    If were going to be bringing donkeys we may as well grab some other animals, Geralhd suggested. Im sure Tannin would appreciate some new stock, and it would improve the local menu as well.


    Good idea, but this is starting to sound expensive. Can we afford all this? Beardy asked.


    I have some money that I stumbled upon. You humans leave it everywhere, cknail said as he ced a pouch on the table. The coins inside jingled as they moved. cknail hated parting with so many shiny bits, but he didnt really use them for anything. He usually just ended up hiding them under rocks and stuff.


    Geralhd opened up the bag and looked inside. This will help a lot, but we will still have to watch what we buy.


    I also have this, cknail said as he ced a fist-sized object on the table. It was nugget of pure gold. There was silence as everyone stared at it.


    Where in all the hells did you get that? Beardy asked. He sounded awed. Yellow rocks sure had a weird effect on humans.


    I found it in cave near Shelter, cknail exined with shrug. It was a rock. Where did the humans think those came from?


    And you didnt tell us? Geralhd asked.


    It didnt seem that important, cknail exined.


    Beardy gave cknail a greedy look and stroked his beard thoughtfully. Was there more gold there?


    Khita sighed and spoke up. We need to focus on leaving right now, remember? There are people after us.


    Are we sure we couldnt just buy all our enemies off? Beardy asked as stared at the gold nugget.


    Geralhd shook his head unhappily. That probably wouldnt work.


    It really wouldnt, cknail agreed. It didnt even make sense. Why wouldnt they just take the money and then kill them for the rest?


    Fine, then that settles things. We need to get moving before anyone else shows up to look for us, Geralhd remarked as he picked up the coin pouch and gold.


    Meet me at ourst campsite outside the city at dusk, cknail told everyone before turning to leave.


    Where are you going? Geralhd asked.


    I need to meet with some people and cover our tracks, cknail told them as he walked away.


    As the door shut behind him, cknail smiled to himself. That had gone well. He hadnt even really needed to convince them to do anything. With a little help from Khita, they had agreed on going back to Shelter without any input from him that might have seemed suspicious. Unfortunately, he had more unpleasant duties to attend to now.


    After looking around the street to make sure there wasnt anyone suspicious around, cknail headed off towards Lupheras domicile. It had been her scent hed detected on the letter, and the thugs had mentioned learning about him from an information broker. Luphera was a seller of secrets, and she probably knew more about him than any others that might be in the city. cknail growled as he stepped past a mother and child walking down the street. The conclusion was obvious, Luphera had betrayed him. She had put him and his friends in danger, and she had almost ruined his ns. That meant that cknail needed to deal with her. He couldnt let anyone get away with betraying him, and even more importantly, she knew too much. If Luphera told Werrick everything she knew it would be a disaster. cknail had made sure not to tell her any of his ns, but hed idently let a few things slip. She had to be silenced.


    As cknail walked down the street, he tried to figure out the best way of aplishing his goal. Obviously, he needed to confront Luphera, however thest time he had tried to sneak into her ce it hadnt gone so well for him. She also had lots of guards, so fighting his way inside seemed like a lot of work. With Elixir a few humans wouldnt be much of problem for him, but he didnt have any more of it. Could he just walk in? Lupheras servants might still have instructions to let him inside. That might be a trap, though. It was possible that she would lead him right into a room full of enemy soldiers. He wasnt going to underestimate her. Should he go gather up some reinforcements? No, he didnt have time for that.


    Since all his other options seemed worse, cknail decided to take the risk and just ask to see Luphera. During hisst visit, Luphera had given him instructions on how to meet with her, since he would make a scene if he went in through the front door. She had told him to go to the back door and knock, so that was what he did. He calmly sauntered around the building and into the empty alley behind it. There was no one around so he walked over to the door at the back of the building and knocked. After a few long seconds, the door swung open to reveal the older mustached man from hisst visit. Both his clothes and his expression looked as unruffled as before as he quickly looked cknail over.


    Im here to see Luphera, cknail exined. He tried to sound friendly, but his rage made that difficult, and the mans smug face annoyed him.


    Wee. I will check and see if she is avable. Please follow me, the servant replied with a polite nod before turning around.


    cknail cautiously followed the man deeper into the building. Neither of them said anything as they walked, and they kept to empty hallways and back rooms that were obviously used by servants and for storage. Only a single uniformed servant passed them by, and he gave cknail a quick nce and then hurried on his way. Eventually cknails guide stopped at a door.


    Please wait here a moment. I will be right back, the man said with an apologetic smile. cknail nodded civilly back. Hed cooled down somewhat.


    The mustached man then stepped through the doorway. cknail got a quick look at arger and morevish hallway on the other side before the door closed and he was left alone in the servants passage. He waited there for a minute or two until the door opened again.


    Just this way. The mistress is ready to see you, his guide announced as he held the door open for cknail.


    Thank you, the hobgoblin replied cheerfully as he stepped through the frame and out into the brightly lit andvish hallway on the other side.


    From there, it was only a few steps to another familiar door. cknail recognized it as the room where hed met Luphera during hisst visit. He tensed up as the mustached man glided over and opened the rooms door for him, as he had the others. cknail had been listening carefully and sniffing the air, but he sensed no signs of ambush. However, that didnt mean there wasnt one. Luphera had managed to surprise him more than once.


    Gritting his teeth, cknail stepped through the door. He hade this far and wasnt going to back down without a good reason. The room in front of him hadnt changed at all. It was still warm, luxurious, and inviting. As before, Luphera was seated on a couch by the low table, but this time she gave off a more business-like impression. Her silk outfit had been exchanged for a proper blue dress that had long sleeves and went down to her ankles. The outfit still highlighted her bosom and the contours of her body, but it wasnt at all yful looking.


    cknail, this is a surprise. I wasnt expecting you back so soon, Luphera remarked. Her back was straight and her hands were resting on herp, so that she looked calm and collected.


    Good, the hobgoblin replied as he looked around the room. He took a second to stare at the room that led off to the side, but nothing seemed out of ce.


    The unique flowery scent that Luphera wore still filled the room. After a few breaths cknail could feel it began to clog up his mind and quicken his pulse. However this time the scent had a slightly different result. His hidden yet roiling emotions skewed the perfumes effects. His fury was only enhanced by lust. He wanted to taste blood, to rend flesh between his fingers and bite bone. Sex and violence werent so different if done right.


    Why dont youe sit down and tell me why youre here? Luphera asked.


    One second. Im just here to ask a quick question, cknail replied as he turned back to look at the door he hade in through. The mustached man that had guided him here was still standing beside it.


    Before anyone could react cknail lunged forward. He reached out, ced a hand on the servants head, and then pushed. <em>Crack.</em> The mans head smashed into the wall behind him and he crumpled down to the ground. cknail smirked. Ah, that had been very satisfying. Gutting him would have felt even better, but cknail wasnt sure he wanted to go that far yet.


    What! How dare you? Luphera hissed as she jumped to her feet.


    He was annoying, but dont worry. He will live, probably, cknail replied as he turned to face her.


    Lupheras face was red with fury as she red at the hobgoblin, but she flinched when he took a step towards her. There was a mad grin on cknails face that highlighted his bared teeth.


    What is the meaning of this? Luphera stuttered as she fought to remain calm.


    cknail pulled the note he had taken from the thugs out of his pocket and took another step forward. Youve been telling tales.


    I dont know what youre talking about.


    The hobgoblin simply held the note out until Luphera took it.


    I see Luphera muttered as she read it. And you think I had something to do with this?


    cknail growled softly as he met her gaze and stared intently into her eyes. Did you?


    There was silence for several long seconds. Luphera was still, except for her eyes which moved as if she was thinking hard. Eventually she grimaced in distaste and looked away.


    Yes, I did. A powerful client came asking for information and I had to offer them something. I couldnt just ignore them.


    You betrayed me, cknail hissed as he stepped forward and grabbed her wrist. She didnt try to pull away. That and the fact that she hadnt lied about her involvement allowed cknail to prevent himself fromshing out. Rage was still boiling beneath his skin. He didnt like traitors, especially ones that targeted the people close to him.


    I dont remember forming an alliance with you, and Im certainly not your servant, Luphera replied as she straightened up and her expression grew steely. Our rtionship is a mutually beneficial one, but also ultimately transactional.


    You put my friends and minions in danger by telling my enemies where they were. If you are going to be working against me why shouldnt I kill you?


    I didnt reveal anything you told me in confidence. You never even mentioned where your friends were staying to me. I learned of them through my own means, just as I would have learned who was responsible for Cedrics death if I hadnt already known you were the culprit. Little happens in this city that I dont know about. Just because we are close that doesnt mean I can afford to never work against you in any way. Im running a business here after all, and I have duties to my other clients.


    cknail scowled and loosened his grip on Lupheras arm slightly. This was confusing. Was she an enemy or not? ckanil was fairly sure that she didnt want him dead. She hadnt revealed everything she knew about him, and she could have undoubtedly sent much more dangerous people after him than the two ipetents he had run into.


    What should I do with you then? cknail mused softly to himself.


    Luphera shrugged and gave cknail an annoyed look. It was an impressive disy of bravery considering her position. The hobgoblins long nails were digging into her arm and his teeth were practically in her face.


    Nothing. Aside from all the fun weve had together, if you harm me in any way I wont work with you ever again. Im your best source of information and have helped you several times. You need me. So what if we sometimes work at cross purposes? Youre a big boy. Im sure you can handle yourself.


    Luphera was making a weird sort of sense. It wasnt like she had ever promised to be his ally. They had simply exchanged information. Still, cknail knew she was twisting the truth. He could see it in her eyes. There was something about this situation that he wasnt seeing. Giving bits of information about him to his enemies had been part of a n of some sort. But what had it been? Had she been trying to separate him from his allies? Maybe she wanted to force him out of town for her own reasons? cknail didnt know. He wished he had some Elixir. If he could taste her fear then he might be able to figure out what she was ying at.


    If youre just going to stand there all day, why dont we rx a little? Luphera remarked as she slowly stepped forward so that one of her legs went through cknails legs and brushed up gently against his groin.


    cknail twitched and let her arm go before stepping back. No, youve answered my question, and your advice is as good as ever. Ill be leaving.


    The hobgoblin turned and stalked out the room, past the unconscious servant on the floor. Luphera was a confusing distraction right now. Killing her would be a waste, and anything short of that would be... unproductive. The only option seemed to be to be more careful of her in the future.


    Right now, he needed to meet up with Geralhd and the others and head back to Shelter, where he was beyond Luphera''s reach. The tools they were bringing would be very useful, and with the information cknail had learned here in Daggerpoint he could begin the next phase of his n to defeat the Wolf.

 Interlude: Biting the Wolf

    Interlude: Biting the Wolf


    The room was silent as Edic watched his boss read the message that hed just delivered. Werrick was standing behind a desk, and there was a scowl on his face that revealed carefully contained fury. It only got worse as he continued to read.


    Edic nced off to the side where Zelena was sitting in a chair. The beautiful but cold blonde woman looked rxed as she patiently waited for her master to finish. Edic was less sanguine about the present situation. He didnt like being put on the spot when his boss was angry. Although Werrick had a reputation for fairness, he could be very intimidating. He was a huge man and famed for his martial prowess. You didnt keep several small armies of ouws in line by being non-violent. Edic was used to being around dangerous people, but Werrick was different. He wasnt a noble and he didnt follow the chivalric code. Edic was thest son of a now deceased knight fromnds near the border. He was a knight himself, even if hisnds were worth almost nothing but the title they granted. He had seen which way the winds of fortune were blowing and decided to forswear the king who had never done anything for his family and offer his services to the rising power.


    This is an unwee development, Werrick observed in a frosty tone as he finally looked up from the piece of paper.


    Yes, sir Edic replied neutrally. He wanted to draw as little attention to himself as possible. He was just the messenger.


    Have you read this?


    Edic flinched and tried to hide it. Yes, sir. I have. Thats why I brought the report to your attention right away.


    Werricks scowl grew deeper. My subordinates have been ughtered, and worse, there is absolutely nothing I can do about it. The perpetrators are long gone and have escaped into the forest. Sending men out into the deep Green to follow a hobgoblin sounds like a great way to never see those men ever again. This entire mess makes me look weak and foolish. Cedrics position was an important one. Having him in Daggerpoint reminded all the local bandits of my power and control. I need them to fear me. There are too many for me to fight all at once.


    We can send out orders for everyone to be on their guard, and Cedric can be reced with ease, Edic quickly responded. The hobgoblin will have a much harder time getting into a properly fortified building full of men that are waiting for him. We can adapt to this tactic with ease. It wont work again. Cedric waszy and arrogant.


    Werrick huffed. Thats what I like about you, Edic. Youre constructive. Thats one of the better traits to have in lieutenants, I believe.


    Im simply trying to do my best to serve, Edic replied stiffly as he stood straight.


    And you do a good job of it, Werrick admitted with sour grin. Send out the order, and make sure everyone is on the lookout for hobgoblins. If he isnt afraid to strike at the center of a city then anyone out on the road should be extra vignt.


    Immediately, sir.


    Of course, that only helps us reduce the damage of any further attacks. It doesnt deal with the actual heart of the problem.


    As you said, going after the hobgoblin would be difficult. He could be anywhere out in the Green, and he undoubtedly knows it far better than we do, Edic agreed.


    Werrick sighed regretfully. Mahedium warned me about this hobgoblin, and it appears he was right. I thought he was being paranoid, but I was wrong. I admit it. I will have to summon him so we can discuss what he knows about this cknail.


    You want to meet with him directly instead of justmunicating via letter?


    I dont trust that mage to bepletely forting unless its in person. Ive rarely met anyone as secretive as him.


    From off to the side, Zelena finally joined the conversation. I agree, lord. It is important you question the mage face to face. He has no allegiance to you beyond convenience. He also wont want to leave his work. The Broken Wheel has supplied him with ab and all the toys he could ever want.


    Werrick scowled again. I dont care what he wants. Thises first. Having magic support is nice, but I can do without any new mana stones. The hobgoblin is much more of a concern. If we cant hunt him down, my first instinct is to set a trap for him, but I know too little about him right now. What does he want?


    Hes a hobgoblin. They are little more than beasts. He probably just struck out at random, Edic said.


    Werrick shook his head. I dont think so. Mahedium said that the hobgoblins inhuman intelligence was a threat. The death of Cedric might be only a minor blow against me, but considering the strength of our opponent, its one of the best opening moves he could have made.


    Surely that was just luck? I have a hard time seeing a savage like himing up with a grand strategy.


    Underestimating him again would be a mistake. Dont forget that after my victory over Herad most the troops sent after the group he was with didnte back, and weve lost several other groups of bandits in that area that pledged themselves to me. No, we cant underestimate him. I sense a pattern unfolding. This hobgoblin is going to be a dangerous opponent, maybe my most dangerous.


    Im sure youre right, sir, Edic replied. He didnt necessarily agree, but knew better than to challenge his boss when hed already made up his mind.


    I usually am, Werrick agreed with a grin. Was there anything else you wanted to bring to my attention?


    Edic took a second to think and coughed to clear his throat. There has still been no progress in openingmunication with anyone to the west, and we lost another scout. Neither the lords nor the ouws out there care much about what goes on here in the easternnds.


    No one even wants to talk? Werrick asked. He sounded slightly surprised.


    They just want to keep to themselves. As per your orders, were trying to find someone powerful there to negotiate and ally with, but usually they just kill the messenger for trespassing or speaking with the wrong ent.


    Zelena spoke up again. Thats not surprising. Since this continent was settled, the West has always been a dark and wild ce. Theyve never had kings or any central authority out there on the edge. Every hill is ruled by its own paranoid little lord, and they are always fighting each other, with the asional break to oppress the peasants. Not that themon folk are any better. Theyre just as vicious and insr.


    We cant even find any half decent maps of the ce, Edic agreed. Its all just hamlets and tiny forts out in the forest. Half of them are probably abandoned by now. Hells, they may all be. There might only be a few viges left west of Eloria. Its impossible to tell because they bloody keep to themselves and there are no real roads. Look at what is happened here in the North, everything is copsing, and theyve been dealing with this sort of chaos for over a century.


    You have a good point, but the difference is that theyve always been like this, Zelena told him. I think they never would have settled out there in the first ce if they couldnt survive, or they would have died off long ago anyway. Dont forget, the far West was settled all in one big wave from the Homnds, and there have always been dark rumors about the nobles that rule them.


    I dont know much about that. Im not a schr, but I dont put much faith in old monster stories, Edic replied respectfully.


    Zelena chuckled. And yet our current problems center around a monster from times long past.


    Regardless, it might be best to just leave the West alone, Werrick admitted. We have problems enough already it seems. Inviting more would be foolhardy. Outside of the asional raid or trading caravan, the people of the West havent had anything to do with East for a century, so I doubt we need to worry about them.

 The Noble Thirst 1

    The Noble Thirst 1


    The winding path before cknail ran through the tall trees, past the bushes at their edge, and out into the midday sunlight. The hobgoblin followed the trail and stepped out onto the top of a hill. Immediately, he was confronted by the sight of a valley surrounded by forested hills. Within the valleyy a crude looking vige. It had been a long journey, but cknail had finally gotten back from Daggerpoint.


    From atop the hill, cknail could see over the settlements walls. He frowned thoughtfully. What he saw within them surprised him a little. Therge clearing was still full of rocky hills, but the amount of buildings around them had more than doubled. ck smoke rose up into the sky from several chimneys. The older longhouses made from woven branches and bark were still standing, but now there were plenty of buildings made from mud bricks andrge felled logs. There were only a few areas within the walls left clear of construction, but an odd sight caught cknails eye. There was a crater where a longhouse had used to be. Had there been an ident? One lost building wouldnt be so bad. cknail had actually been expecting to find half of the ce on fire when he got back.


    Looking over a bit, cknail saw that the forest outside the settlement had also been pushed back almost a hundred feet. A lot of that ground was still filled with tree stumps but some of the soil looked like it had been torn up and cleared of rocks and nts. cknail knew the trees had probably been cut down for firewood, but he wasnt sure why the ground had been cleared. Maybe Gob was just trying to keep the goblins busy?


    How many goblins live here now? cknail muttered to himself. Feeding them all might be difficulte winter, and he knew a lot of the little green pests were free riding of all his hard work, even if it was hard to find out which goblins those were. They all imed to be hard workers


    Scamp interrupted cknails thoughts. Dunno. Lots.


    The other hobgoblin walked up beside cknail and peered over at the settlement. There were several other hobgoblins behind him.


    I wasnt asking you, cknail replied dismissively as he began walking down the hill.


    After dropping off Geralhd and the others at Shelter, cknail had met up with the hobgoblins that had been following them in secret and headed here. Most of the hobgoblins were carrying piles of tools such as axes or shovels. A lot of gear had been dropped off at Shelter but cknail had kept some for his own use. In particr the steel-headed axes would be useful for chopping down trees in order to build and provide firewood. Stone axes just werent anywhere near as good.


    And now Im back here in this dirty death trap, Elyias moaned from the back of the group. He was carrying a particrlyrge heap of tools.


    Since Elyias was known as a thief and a traitor, he had stayed with the hobgoblins instead of travelling with the humans, although cknail hadnt actually given him any other option.


    Youre safer here than practically anywhere else, cknail told him.


    There is a difference between living and surviving. One of them has ale and women.


    cknail smirked at Elyias. You cant have either if youre dead, but dont worry, soon we will be having lots of fun!


    Elyias sighed despondently, but Avorlus spoke up. This is where your mage is? The young fool is right, it doesnt look like much. Although I dont know what I was expecting.


    cknail scowled at the mages words. He was rather proud of the goblin settlement. It had taken a lot of hard work to create it out in the forest. Avorlus was just being miserable. He had journeyed with Geralhd and the others to Shelter, but he had demanded to go with cknail and meet his mage at the goblin settlement right away, even though the long journey from Daggerpoint had tired his old body out. On the way here Avorlus had found out that the mage he was looking for was a hobgoblin, but he still wanted the knowledge cknail said he had.


    There was activity at the gate they were walking toward so cknail turned to observe it. Several goblins ran off as two hobgoblins stepped forward with raised spears. cknail didnt recognize either of them.


    Stop! Who are you? one of them yelled towards the approaching hobgoblins.


    Im cknail, your leader, cknail shouted back in an annoyed tone. They should really know this already. He was important.


    Really? one of the guards replied uncertainly.


    cknail red t him. Yes.


    Hes cknail all right, Scamp added helpfully. There was a moment of silence from the guards as they turned to regard each other.


    I thought Gob made him up, one of them remarked to the other quietly.


    Dont be an idiot. I always knew he was real, hispanion replied before turning toward cknail.


    You maye in! he announced.


    cknail huffed as he walked past the guards. I know I cane in. Im the leader and we outnumber you.


    The targets of his ire didnt respond. They wisely kept silent and got out of the way. The wall in front of cknail was made from a row of long wooden stakes that rose up from the earth. They were tied together for extra strength and their tips had been sharpened to make them hard to climb or jump over. The gate through them was just a gap for people to walk through, which cknails group promptly did.


    Lets go see Gob, cknail informed his minions as he looked around the settlement. He wanted backup in case something unexpected happened.


    After a few seconds, cknail spotted Gobs old home and began walking over to it. It was one of the earliest branch longhouses, and a quick inspection revealed no sign of Gob, just half a dozen goblins that quickly ran off. cknail was just about to check the next longhouse when Gob appeared with two other hobgoblins behind him. Gob was the first hobgoblin that had joined cknail and he had been left in charge of the settlement while cknail was gone. Gob was very loyal but cknail was still a little nervous. He had been gone for a long time, and hobgoblins werent known for their patience or subservience.


    Wee back, great one! Gob eximed joyfully as he bowed his head.


    cknails posture rxed a little. Gob sounded very sincere. It was hard for a hobgoblin to fake happiness like that. You seem to have done an alright job here in my absence,


    Youmanded me to keep the food stores full and make sure everyone behaved, so I have done so, lord.


    Are you feeding all these goblins? cknail asked. On the way in they had passed what must have been a hundred goblins.


    Yes, many of them work in the human fields for food, and I have started a few ntings of my own outside the walls.


    I brought some tools that will help you with that, cknail replied. Did you run into any problems while I was gone?


    Gob shook his head. There were a few young hobgoblins that refused to listen to your teachings, so I killed them.


    You seem to have left plenty alive, cknail observed. He had seen quite a few new faces as hed strolled through the settlement. cknail wasnt sure he really wanted so many hobgoblin minions. They were hard to control.


    You are a great leader, the more minions you have the higher your own stature!


    True cknail mused aloud. He hadnt really considered it that way before. Gob was making a fair amount of sense, but cknail was curious about one thing. What happened to the longhouse over there?


    Great one. Ick your power and good looks, so several hobgoblins began nning against you while you were gone. They thought themselves better than you, so I had Imp blow their house up while they were sleeping.


    Dont worry. I probably would have done the same thing. That sounds like it was fun, cknail admitted with a smile.


    Thank you, master. May I ask who this new person is? Gob asked as he looked toward Avorlus.


    A mage that can make some important stuff for me.


    Gob frowned. He still has his clothes.


    Avorlus sputtered loudly and gave cknail an irritated look. The hobgoblin sighed.


    Hes not a prisoner, cknail quickly said before leaning in close to Gob and whispering. But make sure he doesnt leave the camp without permission.


    cknail then coughed and stepped back. I also have a bunch of tools I brought from the human city, find somewhere safe to put them. I dont want any stupid goblins stealing them.


    Rolly will take care of that. He has done a good job being in charge of the food storage, Gob replied as he motioned toward a fat hobgoblin standing beside him.


    Make sure they are kept clean and ready for use. I dont want them getting dull or rusty, cknail added.


    Rolly was one of the first local hobgoblins that had transformed. He had looked a little chubby even then, and hed only grown thicker since. He wasnt quite human fat, but he had a noticeable pot belly and was the widest looking hobgoblin cknail had ever seen. Still, Rolly had always struck cknail as clever enough to stay out of trouble, so he probably wasnt a bad choice to look after the supplies, even if he did eat more than his share of them.


    Yes, boss. I will keep them safe and ready for use, Rolly replied with a sloppy salute. When cknail nodded back, he then led the hobgoblins that were carrying gear off deeper into the camp.


    Since that seems like everything important, Im going to go take a nap, cknail said as he turned to look off towards where his cavey. It had been a while since he had slept in his bed here and he wanted to get reacquainted with it.


    Gob frowned. I wouldnt dare tell you what to do, but I was nning on holding a meeting for all the hobgoblins. Too many of them have never seen their glorious leader, and that is uneptable.


    Alright, Im going to nap for a bit. Get me when youre ready.


    Gob winced. Sorry, boss. I got excited and already sent out minions to gather everyone. They should be ready in just a few minutes.


    Fine, lets get it over with then, cknail groaned. It was probably a good idea to make sure everyone knew he was in charge, especially if it only took a few minutes.


    I think Id like to skip this little event and meet with your mage already. I want to see if this hobgoblin really can make mana stones. If he does then this little jaunt wont have been aplete waste of my time.


    Since there was no reason to keep Avorlus around, cknail led him and the hobgoblins on a detour toward Imps hut. Once there, Imp began a demonstration of his knowledge that involved several ss beakers and a lot of iprehensible muttering. Avorlus frowned at the primitive surroundings and scavenged tools, but he quickly became enraptured by what Imp was saying and doing. Everyone else found staring at boiling liquids mind numbingly boring, so they stepped outside.


    cknail was just about to suggest going to the meeting, when an unfamiliar hobgoblin walked over to him and waved in greeting. He was tall and thin with an unhealthy grey cast to his skin. His dark hair was very short and fuzzy, like it had been cut or burned off and only recently regrown.


    Who are you? cknail asked in confusion. Most hobgoblins didnt wave. That was a human thing.


    Im Ferrar, the hobgoblin replied in an equally perplexed tone as he quickly dropped his hand and stopped waving.


    Oh, right. cknail saw the resemnce now, although it was hard to recognize him since he wasnt standing next to a fire. Have youe to pay respects to your great leader?


    Ferrar looked uncertain. Er, yes. Congrattions on doing all the wonderful things that you did while you were gone to the ce you went


    Thank you, congrattions on bing a hobgoblin!


    Ferrar tapped the side of his head. The better thoughts make it easier to figure out how to burn things.


    Probably, cknail replied. Is that everything you wanted? Im a little busy right now.


    Hmmm, I wanted to ask you for something, boss.


    What? cknail asked. He was willing to bet it had something to do with fire.


    There are secrets that the humans have that I want.


    Ask the vigers. They are supposed to share that sort of stuff with us now.


    They dont know! I need to learn from other humans that live somewhere else.


    What are we talking about?cknail asked as he frowned in puzzlement.


    Making the shiny metals. My fire doesnt burn them enough! The humans here only know how to repair metal things. None of them can take iron from the ground and make new tools out of them!


    Why do you want to do that? Its easy enough to take metal things from humans, cknail replied. The world was full of easily hunted humans with useful items.


    Ferrars eyes seemed to glow with fervor. I dont want to take. I want to make a furnace that will melt iron and cleanse it. It will be bigger and hotter than any of the fires I have made yet, but I will tame its mes and create so many wonderful new things with its power!


    Ill keep an eye out for such a human, cknail replied carefully, before taking a step back.


    Ferrar was a very useful minion, if a little intense at times. Even as a goblin hed been one of the most productive of cknails subordinates. Almost all the pottery was made under his direction and he was the best at crafting it, so keeping him happy would be worth a little effort. Building a new furnace to smelt iron would also keep him busy and hopefully out of trouble.


    Now that Ferrar was done talking, Gob walked up and addressed cknail. Most your minions should have gathered by now.


    Lets go then. Im getting tired, cknail replied with yawn.


    With a respectful nod, Gob led cknail over to thergest open space inside the settlement. It was usually used for training, but someone had built a raised tform over on one side of it. To get to it the group had to pass by a crowd. Quite a few hobgoblins and goblins had gathered for the meeting. There looked to be almost a hundred hobgoblins and countless goblins. Once he reached the top of the podium, cknail took a second to look down at them. It was a little intimidating. There were so many eyes on him, and the idea of there being a hundred hobgoblins in one ce was unreal. The idea that he would want to be anywhere near them was even weirder. Why werent they killing each other?


    They seem well behaved, cknail remarked uncertainly to Gob.


    Gob beamed proudly back. Ive been training them the way you taught me, and only those that learn are allowed to live. They practice with swords and to control their rage and hunger almost every day. Your ideas did this, wise one. Your genius knows no bounds! We are a mighty tribe now.


    cknail frowned as he looked over the hobgoblins. Where do they all live?


    Every longhouse has a small group of hobs that control it, Gob exined. The strongest rules the home and all the goblins that live there. Each longhouse is like a small tribe within a tribe, except they all serve their glorious leader, you.


    cknail still had a hard time seeing them all getting along. Even disciplined hobgoblins would find reasons to brawl. Do they fight or steal from each other much?


    Stealing from other longhouses is not allowed, by your orders. You have told me many times that stealing is bad, so I killed the thieves for you. Now they only steal small things and are very sneaky about it.


    Yes, I am very smart for thinking of that. What about fighting?


    Sometimes they fight, but they know what is allowed and what isnt, only small murders not big ones.


    knail nodded along thoughtfully. Ah, that makes sense.


    Since cknail had no more questions, Gob stepped up to the edge of the tform and raised his arms. From somewhere off to the side someone blew a horn. The deep echoing sound rolled over the green crowd, and they all fell silent and looked towards the stage. cknail stared back. What was this now?


    Listen, brothers and sisters! Our magnificent chieftain has returned from his battle with our enemies. He has brought many spoils and bathed in the blood of the fallen. We are victorious! All praise to cknail the undefeated!


    The gathered goblins and hobgoblins immediately roared their approval by screaming at the top of their lungs. Their raised voices seemed to tear the air and explode out into the forest. cknail had to catch his bnce and shake off the effect of the screaming. It felt like his skull was vibrating. When Gob had mentioned a meeting cknail had been picturing something smaller and a lot less noisy.


    Gob then lowered his arms and stepped out of the way. The eyes of the crowd instantly all focused on cknail. He gulped and froze for second. He didnt know what to say, and then he remembered that his audience were hobgoblins. He was a hobgoblin, so he knew them, even if he didnt like them. You just had to tell them what they wanted to hear.


    cknail stepped forward and yelled at the crowd. Once we were weak and small. Once we feared the jaws of trolls and the ws of harpies, but no longer! I have in these beasts. Follow me and you will never fear anything in the forest ever again. Serve me and food will be plentiful and your nights warm. You who stand before me are the strongest and the smartest. Serve me and we shall take the world as our own. Blood will flow and the hunt willst forever. I cannot be beaten!


    There was another frenzy of excited screaming from the mob. Hobgoblins were jumping up into the air and waving their arms. Even the goblins were getting into it, although cknail didnt think most of them had any idea what was going on. They just liked shouting. The massed energy infected cknail and he found himself grinning crazily at the ranks of minions before him as they cheered for their glorious leader. He felt invincible and fulfilled, like a king. Maybe hobgoblins werent so bad.

 The Noble Thirst 2

    The Noble Thirst 2


    The darkness of night enveloped cknail. Off in the murk, insects chirped and an owl hooted forlornly. cknail was leaning up against a tree and studying a distant source of light. Through the trees and down a hill, someone had lit a campfire. This was the deep Green. Humans didnt camp out here unless they were very brave or very lost.


    Is that the man you are looking for? Scamp asked. A dozen hobgoblins and two humans stood behind cknail.


    Its a little too far away to tell, cknail answered disdainfully. What a dumb question.


    Khita stepped forward. This is the right ce. The vigers we asked said he was out here. Although, I guess they could have been lying. They were mucking hostile, like everyone else in this dumb ce.


    Lets go see if its him, cknail said as he began walking forward.


    cknail and his followers had travelled west for weeks to get here. They hade to find one of the few famous bandits that still hadnt allied with Werrick. There werent many holdouts ording to what cknail had learned from Luphera, but they were far from Werricks territory here.


    It had taken cknail a few days to rest after getting back from Daggerpoint. He had used that time to study all the changes that had taken ce in the goblin camp and to n for this excursion. There were a lot of new hobgoblins to intimidate and new building to explore. He had also visited Shelter and met with Tannin. The vigers had thrown him a feast! They had been grateful for all the gifts hed brought them from Daggerpoint, especially the two cows. However, cknail had to leave and head east to fulfill the next stage of his n.


    After reaching the town of Westwatch, cknails group had resupplied and asked around. The people there had been more than willing to discuss the bandit chief that both raided the area and asionally sent people to buy supplies there. Humans were weird. However, in the next vige they had reached the people hadnt been willing to talk to strangers. They had practically run Elyias and Khita out of town. cknail had thus been forced to track down the Red Hand himself, and their quarry had proven elusive.


    What do you want us to do? A hobgoblin asked as he fell in behind his chieftain.


    cknail kept walking. Sneak around and take out any sentries you find, but dont hurt them unless you have to, and dont reveal yourselves. Anyone who gets caught will get a kicking.


    Yes, boss, the hobgoblin responded as he and several others dashed off into the shadows.


    Soon, cknail reached the bushes at edge of the light. He hid among the leaves as he studied the figures around the fire. There were easily over thirty humans in the camp. Several had set up tents but most of them were sleeping under the outstretched branches of trees. Around half a dozen of them were still awake and moving around, most of whom were sitting around the fire.


    cknails eyes were drawn to one man in particr. He sat alone, and cknail smelled leadership on him. Not with his nose, but with his instincts. It was obvious this man was the boss. Everyone else made sure to give him space, and they kept ncing at him out of the corner of their eyes, as if they were worried he would disapprove of something they were doing.


    There was no doubt as to the nature of the men in the camp. These were cknails kind of people, bandits. Each of them was armed and they swaggered around like they owned the space they walked through and were daring someone else to say otherwise. In fact, most of them were better armed than Herads men had been. cknail saw several steel breasttes and bits of heavier armor.


    cknail smiled. Alright, lets go introduce ourselves, Elyias. Everyone else stay here and watch.


    Elyias flinched. What? Why me?


    Ya, why him? Khita asked. I want to go.


    cknail rolled his eyes. Thankfully, he knew how to handle the young redhead. No, you stay here. I need minions who can fight to cover my escape path. Use your bows if things get violent or if I give the signal.


    The hobgoblins nodded and the ones with bows readied them. Khita wasnt happy about the orders, but she didnt raise any more objections, and she stayed put with the rest of the hobgoblins when cknail and Elyias stepped out of the bushes.


    At first no one in the human camp noticed them, and those that did dismissed them, but then someone realized they were out of ce. By this time, cknail and Elyias were almost to the fire and had passed through half the camp unseen.


    Wait. Who are you two? a tall man near the fire eximed as he jumped to his feet and drew his weapon.


    Intruders? another bandit asked as he looked up. There was a nervous look on his face.


    As all the nearby men reacted, cknail strode a few feet closer and then came to a stop. The bandit leader calmly leaned back and studied the neers. He was of average build and height, but he had a heavy presence. His shoulder length ck hair had been slicked back and his eyes were hard and cold. They reminded cknail of Herads eyes, except they seemed gloomier, and also they were red. That was an unusual color for a human. cknail wondered if it meant something.


    You have a lot of guts to just walk in here, the bandit leader remarked evenly. He didnt seem concerned about their presence or even all that interested.


    As Elyias trembled, cknail shrugged. Thanks for thepliment. I came to speak with the leader of these bandits.


    And what makes you think that we wont just murder you? a bandit asked.


    Because arrows kill people, cknail replied as he signaled to the hobgoblins in the woods with a hand gesture.


    Two arrows instantly burst out of the darkness and mmed into the ground beside the fire. Bandits swore and scrambled away from the impact site. Even Elyias flinched and hed known they wereing.


    Im not afraid of arrows, the bandit leader observed. cknail believed him. He hadnt even flinched. His cold eyes just studied the arrows for a moment and then moved back to cknail.


    So what is it that you want? the leader asked.


    cknail poked Elyias shoulder hard. This was his job! Elyias face was pale as a sheet. He sputtered and then quickly began reciting the speech cknail had ordered him to memorize.


    My master, cknail, is a notorious and terrible killer. He is a powerful bandit lord from the east and he demands a meeting of equals, so that he may discuss matters of grave importance with the bandit chief known as the Red Hand."


    And where is this master of yours? the man known as the Red Hand asked. He looked and sounded annoyed.


    Im right here, cknail answered.


    The man frowned and looked the hobgoblin over again. Really? Youre a little odd, arent you?


    True, a lot of people say things like that about me, some of them even more than once, but its usually because of my skin color, cknail said as he lowered his hood. I think most of them are just jealous of my handsome nose.


    There was a moment of shocked silence as all the bandits took in cknails face. It was green, and it definitely belonged to a hobgoblin.


    Hells, what is that? someone cursed. There was muttering from several more men as they flinched away or reached for weapons.


    This <em>is</em> a new twist, the leader said as he stood up. None of the other messengers have been hobgoblins. He looked interested now.


    Im not anyones servant orckey. Im a leader, cknail huffed. I also havent sent any messengers.


    A man representing the Wolf showed up. I killed him, the ck-haired chief replied with cruel smile. cknail couldnt help but notice that he had rather long and pointy teeth for a human.


    cknail stood tall and smiled back to show off his own impressive teeth. They were even pointier. Good, I hate that guy. Thats one of the things I wanted to talk to you about, killing him together. Also, what should I call you? The Red Hand sounds silly.


    My name is sir Ilisti Vang. You may address me that way, hobgoblin. This sudden interest in me from people in the east puzzles me. Why now?


    cknail shrugged. Things are changing. Werrick wants to be king of the North, while everyone in the South is too busy fighting to stop him. Also, there is me. Im doing some stuff.


    The Silent Reaches change little. It has stayed much the same over the centuries. It was set up that way by the original settlers.


    Thats this ce? cknail asked. Hed never heard that name before.


    Thats what we westerners call ournds. It is a ce of refuge for exiles. We dont much like outsiders - such as you - prying into our business.


    Well, Im not here to pry into your embarrassing secrets. I just want to help you make friends, conquer newnds, and kill the Wolf.


    Ilisti looked skeptical. Why would I want to ally with you? Are you offering me anything more than vague promises?


    Ah, a negotiation. cknail scratched the side of his head. He didnt have a lot of practice with these, except for the ones where he offered not to kill people in return for material reward.


    Im a great ally. You help me and then Ill help you kill your enemies. Im the most dangerous killer in the world, and I have a lots of hobgoblin minions. We could have killed half your men before you knew we were here and then slipped away into the night.


    And you think I need your help to y some enemy you imagine I have? Ilisti asked as he crossed his across his chest.


    cknails grin deepened. I know enough about humans to understand that they dont like hanging out in forests with dirty clothes and almost no women around. Youre here because you have a powerful enemy.


    A hint of smile appeared on the mans face. Thats a fair enough point.


    I have lots of points. Now, how can I help you? Who is this man that needs to be murdered?


    Ilisti frowned and rubbed his chin. His posture rxed as he fell into thought. Warily, cknail watched him. The hobgoblin had been smiling and talking freely, but something about the man in front of him put him on edge. His scent was a little off, and he reeked of blood.


    Without warning, Ilisti lunged forward. His de flew free of his scabbard and sliced toward cknails face. cknail jerked backwards and burned a bit of Elixir he had ingested back in the forest. The swords tip barely missed his nose as he drew his own de. It slid free just in time for him to block Ilistis next attack, however cknail was slightly off bnce and the strength of the blow knocked him backwards an inch. He grimaced and desperately shifted his weight in preparation for the next blow, but it didnte. Cautiously, cknail held his sword up high in a guard.


    Not bad. I was expecting worse, Ilisti remarked as he took a step back and sheathed his weapon. Youre even faster than you look and certainly stronger than your scrawny frame suggests.


    You''re fast for such a fatty, cknail hissed back as he lowered his de slightly. He didnt like being surprise attacked. That was his thing.


    Ilisti smiled. It was a test, nothing more. I wanted to see if you were as formidable as you imed you were.


    It was rude, cknail replied.


    So it was. I apologize. It has been a while since I entertained proper guests.


    All the nearby bandits were on their feet now and several had drawn weapons. Ilisti turned to them and motioned them away. Give us some space. I wish to talk to the hobgoblin alone.


    As you wish, sir, the closest man replied. All the bandits then bowed and hurried away, leaving cknail alone with Ilisti at the fire, except for a still frozen Elyias. cknail waved him away, and he ran off into the forest.


    I believe we were discussing our enemies, Ilisti said as he sat back down.


    You first, cknail replied as he also took a seat across the fire. He was still wary.


    Very well, you were right. I do have a powerful enemy. I was not always andless exile. In my youth I was heir to my familys ancestralnds, but a powerful neighboring noble stole my birthright. My familys blood sworn knights fled the castle with me while my father bought them time.


    And you want me to kill this noble?


    Much to cknails chagrin, Ilistiughed. You would find that difficult. I dont doubt your might or skill, cknail, but my enemy is an ancient Vympir. His wounds heal in seconds and he is strong enough to rip a man in half. It is said his gaze can kill, that the darkness obeys him, and that he once killed a troll with his bare hands.


    That did sound difficult, and it raised some important questions. cknail sniffed the air and frowned as an unusual but familiar earthy scent filled his nostrils. Hes a mutant, like you.


    That is a rather unttering way to describe the hallowed power granted by the ancient blood, but notpletely inurate, Ilisti admitted with shrug of his shoulders.


    If you dont want my help killing your enemy then what do you want? cknail hadnt known that humans could be mutants. Could hobgoblins? Suddenly, he had a lot of questions that need answered.


    As he leaned back, Ilisti sighed dramatically. There is nothing for me here in the West. With what remains of my Bloodsworn, I have spent years surviving on the fringes while I wait for my blood to grow in strength and for some other noble to grow weak so that I mays seize hisnds. That hasnt happened, and I grow weary.


    So? cknail asked. He was getting a lot of information he hadnt asked for.


    In normal times, I would never even think of going east, but your presence suggests an opportunity. My people have remained apart from the eastern kingdoms for good reasons. The cults tend to dislike our existence and your gathering of the wise agrees with them. They are jealous of our power, so they turn the lowborn against us and hunt us, but I dont think they are your allies either.


    No, I dont like those people much, but it hardly matters. They rarely show up in the North. Its mostly just the farmer type of humans and violent stealing types. Although there arent a lot of people outside the cities anymore.


    Yes, which suggests the time is ripe for me to visit and perhaps carve out a ce for myself. My kind have long thrived were we can offer our protection to the abandoned and forgotten.


    cknail shrugged. Its what everyone else is doing. Help me kill the Wolf and Ill help you take somend.


    That sounds a profitable basis for an alliance, Ilisti remarked with a smile. His eyes had warmed up a little, but they were still dark and brooding.


    cknail agreed with him. It sounded like Ilistis interests aligned with his. Werrick wanted to rule all the North and it didnt sound like the Vympir would ever willingly serve the Wolf.


    There is one thing I should probably mention, Ilisti said. As a Vympir I asionally need to feed on the blood of other men.


    That sounded inconvenient. cknail frowned. You cant just eat animals like everyone else? People dont taste all that good.


    Its not a matter of taste, but of need. My bite paralyses people, and slowly changes their blood, so that I may returnter and feast upon it.


    More like slurp. Blood isnt a food, its a liquid, cknail mused aloud.


    The Vympir sighed. I would not tolerate such disrespect from a man, but I have no idea if you''re being serious.


    cknail ignored him. This new bit of information did create some problems. He had been looking for a human to serve as a figurehead because humans didnt seem to trust hobgoblins, but a Vympir would also probably not inspire trust. Still, cknail had found a useful tool here. He would just have to find some other human to be his puppet. He liked puppets.


    Alright, I will be your guide east, cknail said as he looked up. I can exin how things work there and introduce you to some people. Im also an expert at hiding, so you wont have to worry about the cults or anyone else.


    Good, then we have a deal. I will help you fight the Wolf, Ilisti said as he stood up.


    The Vympir walked over to cknails side and extended an open hand. cknail stood up and took it. As they shook hands to seal their agreement, their inhuman eyes met and they both smiled. cknail liked Ilisti. He seemed like a straightforward guy.

 The Noble Thirst 3

    The Noble Thirst 3


    After cknail and Ilisiti had finished their conversation, the vympir went to prepare for the journey he had agreed to undertake. Since all his men were ring suspiciously at cknail and none of them looked like great conversationalists anyway, the hobgoblin wandered off into the woods to meet back up with the minions. They were right were hed left them.


    Oh, good. You didnt run off into the forest, cknail remarked when he saw Elyias was with the hobgoblins and Khita.


    Khita huffed in annoyance. He tired. I grabbed him before he got himself lost.


    That man was a monster. A vympir! Elyias eximed as he stepped forward. He was still pale and shaking.


    cknail put a hand on Elyias shoulder to steady him. What do you know about vympirs? They seem like mutant humans to me.


    An excited gleam appeared in Khitas eyes. Really a vympir? Those are real?


    I just said they were. What do you know about them? cknail responded. Her sudden enthusiasm was a little unsettling.


    Just that theyre evil, Elyias exined darkly. Most people think theyre myths from hundreds of years ago. There are lots of tales of evil nobles with strange powers who prey on peasants, or of strangers who arrive in a vige and pick the people off one by one.


    I like the stories about vympir princes who fall in love with maidens and abduct them so they can be together forever. Usually the woman dies horribly, but it is still romantic! Khita added as she smiled manically.


    They are terrible monsters that devour people and cause disasters, Elyias hissed. They hunt people at night and feed on them like beasts!


    So, you think they are a lot like hobgoblins, eh? cknail replied thoughtfully.


    A startled look appeared on Elyias face. Er


    While Elyias tried to figure out what to say, one of the nearby hobgoblins took the opportunity to speak up. So does this mean we wont be attacking them and taking their stuff? They have some nice stuff.


    No, they are probably our allies now, cknail told him.


    The hobgoblin picked his nose. So, what do you want us to do with the sentries we caught?


    cknail hadpletely forgotten about them. You better let them go.


    What about their stuff? Can we keep that?


    No, give it back. We dont want to upset our new allies.


    I think one of them ising over here, another hobgoblin remarked as he stared past cknail at the camp behind him.


    The hobgoblin chieftain turned to see what his minion was talking about, and sure enough there was a human walking out to the edge of the forest. He was easy to see with the fire behind him, and he cast a long shadow. It was a man with a sword at his waist, but he didnt look like Ilisti.


    My lord has sent me to talk to the one known as cknail, the man announced formally once he reached the trees. His eyes roamed the darkness in search of the hobgoblins, and he didnt seem afraid of the forest or the hobgoblins within it at all.


    Im right here, cknail replied as he stepped out of the shadows. He was feeling festive and light hearted. It wasnt every day that you made an important new ally, and he was d thating to this depressing ce had turned out to be productive after all.


    The young man took a second to study the hobgoblin. He was calm, and didnt flinch or look afraid at all. cknail found that unppable demeanor to be annoying. He was used to getting reactions from people. Physically, the young man had short ck hair, a clean-shaven face, and a patient look that spoke of a type of discipline most banditscked. He was shorter that his master, but he had the same red eyes.


    Youre a mutant too, cknail remarked inquisitively.


    My name is Garen, and Im a vympir, not a mutant. To call us such is an insult to our bloodline, and will not be tolerated.


    How many of you are there? Mutants dont usually get along. In the wild, cknail had never encountered more than one mutant in the same ce. Hed always assumed they ate each other.


    I am the only vympir in service to lord Vang, and as I said, we are not simple mutants. Ours is an ancient power that stretches back to the first emperors of man.


    Oh, that sound impressive. How did you be one? cknail asked. He wanted to know what he was dealing with.


    In my childhood, I was offered up by my vige as a sacrifice to my lords family. However, I survived the offering of life and the ancient blood took root in me. Since the young lord Vang had no bond servants I was put into his service, where I have served him loyally ever since, Garen exined. How did you be such as you are? You are an umon hobgoblin.


    cknail frowned. No one had ever asked him that before. It was sort of aplicated question. Although, most of it probably wasnt important.


    I was taken in by a bandit named Saeter to be his helper. He taught me everything I know, like how to fight, but he died, so now Im trying to get revenge. That covered the important bits.


    Garen nodded in understanding. Seeking vengeance against the enemies of your in lord is a true servants duty.


    cknail nodded along. Also, Im very angry with them and want to enjoy pulling their tongues out with my ws.


    Traditionally, I believe grim determination is the appropriate emotion for such tasks, but I dont think anyone has ever actually said you cant have fun doing it.


    Thats good, but those rules probably dont apply to me. Most rules dont.


    Ah, you might have a point there. Most rules of honor werent designed with hobgoblins in mind, Garen admitted as he looked thoughtfully to the side.


    What were you here for, again?


    Garen looked embarrassed. I apologize. I was momentarily distracted by your unusual demeanor.


    Plus I look funny, cknail added helpfully. If he couldnt scare the man then he could still catch him off guard in other ways.


    Er Garen seemed rather uncertain of what to say now, but he collected himself and determinedly pressed on. I was sent by my master to ask about several of our men who have disappeared.


    Oh, them. I just gave orders for them to be returned. They should all be fine.


    That is good. I would hate for our alliance to be marred by the stain or blood.


    Ya, the smell is hard to get rid of, and you humans bleed everywhere.


    Yes. Garen replied with careful neutrality.


    Silently, cknail and him stared at each other for several very awkward seconds. The hobgoblin didnt blink. Surprisingly, Khita took this opportunity to walk over and join the conversation. The surprising thing was that she hadnt butted in earlier.


    So, youre a vympir? Is that why your eyes are red? Khita asked as she walked up beside cknail and beamed happily at Garen. I didnt think you guys were real.


    Who is this? Garen asked cknail. It was subtle, but he was definitely leaning away from the redhead. It was reaction the hobgoblin understood.


    Shes Khita. Someone fed her, so now she follows us around and wont go away.


    Khita ignored the hobgoblin and focused on Garen. I hear you drink blood. That doesnt sound very appetizing. Does it taste different to you?


    The taking of life is a sacred activity, that I shall not discuss with you, Garen replied sourly.


    Khita walked right up to him and looked him over. This caused Garen to look ufortable. Apparently, cknail wasnt the only one who was used to being feared.


    Have you ever kidnapped a maiden? Khita asked him.


    A stiff smile appeared on Garens lips. Having fulfilled my masters request, I will be leaving now.


    Bye, cknail replied as the man walked out of the shadows and back to the campfire.


    He wasnt very polite, Khita observed as she watched him go.


    With nothing else to do, cknail and his minions waited in the darkness under the treetop for Ilisiti to get back to them. It took almost an hour for him to appear at the edge of the light, but when he did, cknail went to meet him halfway.


    I just finished conversing with my subordinates and making n. There is still lots to do, but I should be able to start heading east before noon tomorrow, Ilisiti announced as he walked over to cknail.


    How many men do you have? the hobgoblin asked.


    I have fifty-two armsmen in my service.


    I thought you would have more. Thats not very many.


    Quality is more important than quantity, little green monster. I could have more if I wished, but taking care of them would have been difficult. Once Ive created a base of operations I can recruit from around my familys oldnds. There is no shortage of men there that would join my cause.


    cknail shrugged. You can have both quantity and quality, big pink monster.


    An amused grin appeared on Ilisitis face. He seemed to have a much stronger sense of humor than Garen. We will leave tomorrow, after I send someone to gather supplies from the vige.


    Will they deal with you? They were rather rude to us, and youre a bandit.


    Im a vympir, even though they dont owe me fealty, the people here know better than to aggravate me. The proper respect for the ancient blood has been instilled within them for generations. Being raided by me is practically an honor.


    Neat. It would nice to buy some supplies before we leave tomorrow. How about you send someone with us?


    Very well. Ill send Garen with you. You shouldnt have any problems with the vigers then.


    Alright, that sounds good, cknail replied. It also sounded fun. He should bring Khita. Amusement was hard toe by in the Green, and not to be wasted.


    After talking to the vympir for a few more moments, cknail went off to set up his own camp. He didnt fully trust his new allies yet, they had just met, and Ilistis men werent used to being around hobgoblins anyway. Sharing a camp overnight was thus probably a bad idea, so instead cknail selected a spot that was several minutes away. It was a defensible position in a small grassy clearing. They had checked it carefully for mimics before moving in, and found one right at the far edge. However, it was out of the way and mimics didnt move much at night. If they set a watch the creature probably wouldnt be a problem, and might even act as protection.


    What do you think of our new friends? cknail asked his nearby minions when they had finished scouting the campsite. Around him, hobgoblins were trampling the grass and setting up the fire.


    Khita shrugged. I dont see why we need their help, but they seem interesting anyway. We could do worse. It is sort of sharp to have vympirs on our side.


    Theyre vympirs! We cant trust them, Elyias shot back. They will probably try to creep into our camp during the night and drink our blood while we sleep!


    Dont worry about that. Several hobgoblins will be watching over you while you rest, cknail responded cheerfully. From what I saw, my minions are better rangers and sneakers than the vympirs.


    The hobgoblins in questions had just finished stomping down most the tall grass. Lurking animals could have used the nts as cover to approach unseen, so they had to be ttened.


    But you dont know what they can do! They are mutants, Elyias replied darkly. Maybe Ilisti can turn into mist or put our sentries to sleep with magic!


    Huh, thats not a bad point, cknail admitted reluctantly. He hadnt thought of that.


    Every mutant that cknail had ever fought had used some sort of weird magic. Vympirs undoubtedly had one as well. Did they each have different magic abilities or did they all share one?


    The hobgoblin chieftain turned to look at Khita and Elyias. You two have heard of vympirs before. Do you know any stories about them using magic like a mutant?


    Nah, all the myths Ive heard give them a whole bunch of abilities, Khita replied. In some, they turn into wolves or bats, and in others they can enve peoples minds. Most of the stories are obvious shit meant to frighten children.


    Sometimes they can fly or go invisible, Elyias added after ncing quickly upwards. He still looked rather spooked. cknail didnt see how vympirs were worse than any other mutants that lived in the Green. They certainly were far from the biggest.


    By now, the hobgoblins had managed to gather arge stack of wood. They had also managed to get a small fire going, and the flickering light from the mes illuminated the clearing. Shadowy branches reached out from the trees at the edge. cknail turned to study the small tree that he knew was actually a mimic lying in wait, but it hadnt moved.


    Maybe I can trick Ilisiti or Garen into telling me, cknail mused aloud. He was rather smart.


    They might show their power if they get in a fight, Khita remarked.


    cknail turned to look at Elyias. Do you feel like challenging Garen to a duel? If you insult his master Im sure he would ept.


    Ha! As if he would need to use some hidden power to beat me. You should do it. Youre the only one here who could give him a real challenge.


    cknail frowned. That would probably ruin our alliance, so it wouldnt work.


    Im sure we will see them fight before too long, Khita pointed out.


    cknail agreed with her, and since there wasnt much else for them to discuss, he ordered everyone to bed down for the night. As everyone else fell asleep, he took first watch with another hobgoblin.


    While his minion patrolled the edge of the clearing, cknail sat with his back to the fire and stared out at the forest. In the dark, the trees were a mass of shifting shadows. All the talk of mutants had put him on edge, and if anything was going to attack it would probably be during first watch. However, the forest was silent except for the chirping of insects and gentle rustling of leaves. Above the hobgoblin chieftain, the asional cloud floated across the starry sky and briefly nketed the moon and stars. cknail looked, but he didnt see any vympirs flying up there.


    Off to one side, Khita began snoring. Thankfully, a quick nudge from the toe of cknails boot caused her to roll over and shut up.


    Now that there was no one else around to distract him, cknail begin to wonder if he was on the right path. He had a n to get his revenge, and he was following it, but was that what he really wanted to do? What would Saeter have thought of his actions? cknail had no idea. Saeter had been aplex man. He would have wanted Herad to be avenged, but he hadnt been a big fan of unnecessary violence. He had also seemed to care a lot about the people of the North.


    cknail wasnt sure if what he was doing benefitted the North the way Saeter had seen it. On one hand, he was about to start a war, but on the other he was making friends and protecting people! As cknail stared out into the darkness, he decided to just keep following the n. He had already started it, and he couldnt honestly think of anything else he wanted to do. Now that Saeter was dead, vengeance was the only force that propelled him forward. Without it he had no purpose.


    The night grew colder, and cknail went to sleep after waking his recement. Early the next morning, he led his followers back to Ilistis camp site. The vympir greeted them, and as promised, sent Garen to guide them to the vige.


    They know youre a bandit, right? Khita asked as they walked off the main road and through the entrance of the vige. cknail followed them with his hood up.


    There were only a few people visible on the streets of the settlement, noticeably less than you would have seen in an eastern vige at this time of day. There were also several other obvious differences. The buildings had a different style, with rounder sides and taller roofs. There were also weird fetishes made from twisted sticks in a lot of doorways and windows. Most of them were circr and braided into intricate web-like patterns. The entire ce had an eerie feeling, as if something dangerous was hiding just out of sight, but it looked prosperous. The streets were clean, and the buildings wererge and well maintained.


    Geran shrugged as he answered Khitas question. They know I am of noble blood and that is all that matters. They fulfil their duties to us and we fulfill ours to them, even if my master doesnt hold thesends.


    What exactly are your duties? Khita asked. To only suck a few of them dry? To only feast on them when youre really hungry?


    This earned her a scowl from Geran. We protect them, from everything that would destroy them. Our might keeps both gue and the beasts of the forest at bay, and we rarely feed on vigers. Unless we are wounded or forced to expend ourselves, we can go over a year without having to take a new thrall, and most thralls are taken in battle besides.


    Two vigers that had been standing down the street noticed the neers. They both stiffened, and after a brief conversation, the woman hurried away while the man drew closer. As if they had received some subtle signal, all the other vigers slipped out of sight as well. As Garen and the others stopped in the middle of the road, the man hurried over. He was middle aged, dressed in a grey robe, and there was a soft cap on his head. He looked like some sort of administrator.


    He immediately focused all his attention on Garen, and gave him a respectful bow. How may I serve you, lord.


    Garen turned to cknail. See, acquiring the things you need will be simple. Tell the man what you want, and we will soon be on our way.


    "Yes, it certainly is convenient to be so feared," cknail replied.

 The Noble Thirst 4

    The Noble Thirst 4


    Now that Garen was with them in the vige, Khita and cknail were able to buy food and gear in no time. The middle-aged man that had rushed over to meet them organized everything. cknail was sure that he was also trying to get them out of the vige as soon as possible and away from the other vigers, but that was fine with him. He was used to behavior like that, although this time they didnt even know he was a hobgoblin. The vigers were worried about Garen, even if they showed him nothing but respect.


    When they were done shopping, they headed back out into the forest to meet up with the others. Not long after that, Ilisti was ready to move. cknails hobgoblins acted as scouts for the vympirs men and guided them East. Ilistis men had packed their camp up and were transporting it using several horses  which cknail chose to ignore - and a small cart. cknail was fairly sure there were two corpses wrapped up in nkets on the cart, but who was he to judge?


    At the front of the main group, cknail walked beside Ilisti. Khita, Elyias, and Garen strode behind them. Both the vympirs had horses, but they had chosen to travel on foot with their new allies for now. They were making their way along a dirt road that cut through the forest. At this pace it would take them almost two weeks to get back to Shelter.


    The sky overhead was cloudy as they walked, and the wind was still. Most of the road was shaded by long branches that extended out from the forest on either side. The smell of wet earth and growing things hung heavy in the spring air, although the clouds up above were white and fluffy, so it didnt seem like it was going to rain anytime soon. That was good. Rain would have turned the dirt road to mud and slowed them down considerably. Although the walk wasnt too bad, cknail was bored so he decided to have a friendly chat with Ilisti.


    Whats your favorite way of hunting people? he asked him.


    Excuse me? the vympir replied as he gave the hobgoblin a surprised look.


    Youre a vympir. Im a hobgoblin. We both hunt people. Everyone says so. I was wondering if you had any tips for me, cknail exined.


    Um, no. Sorry. Im not some beast out of an eastern folk tale, terrorizing vigers at night. Im a lord of the ancient blood. I dont hunt my prey. I earn my thralls inbat or they are offered to me by my gracious subjects if I am in need.


    Well, if you ever want to start hunting people then feel free to ask me for tips. Im very good at it.


    Ill keep that in mind, Ilisti replied dryly.


    Just then, a hobgoblin scout slipped out of the trees up ahead. cknail watched with interest as the scout jogged over to him. Had the scouts found something?


    What is it? cknail asked. He hoped it was interesting.


    The hobgoblin gave a little bow before answering. Tracks, boss. They arent like anything we have seen before, and there are lots of them, everywhere.


    What kind of tracks? cknails minions werent all that experienced, so it was possible they were just confused.


    Weird ones, boss. The feet look small, but they have three long ws, and the way the tracks are clustered together makes us think the things have six feet. Thats a weird number of feet.


    It is, cknail mused. That description didnt sound like anything hed seen or heard of before, especially if these things travelled in groups. Maybe these creatures only lived in the West?


    Do you know anything that fits this description? cknail asked Ilisti.


    The vympir frowned thoughtfully and then grimaced. Only one thinges to mind, and Im far from an expert on them, boggarts.


    What are those? cknail asked. Hed never heard of them, except it sort of sounded like something humans yelled when they stubbed their toes.


    Come up here and inform our ally, Ilisti said as he turned back to look at Garen.


    Yes, lord, Garen immediately replied as strode forward to join them.


    I thought boggarts were made up, like house spirits Khita remarked as she invited herself into the conversation.


    Up until thest few years, most good people would have agreed with you. Garen admitted. However, that has changed. It all started with a sudden uptake in the disappearance of livestock. At first, harpies and goblins were med, but then herders and farmers began to find tracks simr to the ones you described. Hunters and foresters began to notice other things as well, like a sharp decrease in sightings of other creatures in certain areas, particrly goblins.


    Huh, cknail remarked. He didnt like where this was going.


    Khita shrugged. So, youre just giving the name to some new pest? Has anyone actually seen these things?


    Ive heard that a few bodies have turned up, although Ive never met anyone who has seen the beasts themselves. However, the rumors describe insect-like creatures the size ofrge dogs with twisted bodies and incredibly sharp ws and teeth. They are also supposed to live underground ande up above to hunt. Maybe they hail from the Dark Paths


    Ugh, nasty, Khita remarked as she stuck her tongue out in disgust.


    How fresh are the tracks? cknail asked his scout. He wanted to know if there were any swarms of goblin eating monsters around.


    We think theyre from yesterday, the hobgoblin replied.


    Tell the others to be cautious and careful anyway. We dont know much about these boggarts, cknail said. There was a big difference between hunting goblins and hobgoblins, but maybe boggarts were too stupid to realize this for themselves.


    The scout nodded and hurried off back into the forest.


    Ive never heard of boggarts attacking a column of men, so we should be safe, Garen remarked as they watched the scout leave.


    Yes, and I dont imagine anything will be getting the drop on us with a screen of hobgoblins out there keeping watch, Ilisti observed cheerfully. From what Ive seen, they are remarkably proficient scouts, as only true creatures of the Green can be.


    cknail nodded in agreement. I taught them everything they know.


    The rest of the journey that day was uneventful. No horde of semi-mythical boggarts materialized to attack them. When it began to grow dark, the humans and the hobgoblins set up camp next to each other. Ilisits men were still ufortable sleeping right next to hobgoblins, and cknail thought it best to keep the hobgoblins out of trouble. However, before everyone started tucking in for the night, Ilisti and Garen visited cknails campfire.


    Greetings, I just wanted to stop in before took my nights sleep, Ilisti said as he walked over.


    cknail, Khita, Elyias, and several hobgoblins were seated around the fire. Elyias immediately shied away from the vympirs, while everyone else greeted them.


    Were just sitting here, discussing our favorite foods. Mine is old smelly cheese. cknail replied. You eat food, right? You dont just drink blood, do you?


    Garen winced but Ilisti took the questions in stride and answered matter-of-factly. We eat normal food, yes. The blood of thralls is simply the source of our power. We consume it rarely.


    Good. The world is full of tasty things. I would hate to have an ally who couldnt enjoy it. Ill bring you some cheese when we get back.


    I shall look forward to it.


    You really shouldnt, Khita muttered darkly to herslef. Ilisti seemed to intimidate her in a way Garen didnt, so she didnt usually speak up around him. cknail didnt get it. They were both vympirs.


    You humans usually dont make your food taste strong enough, cknail remarked. I find letting it age awhile almost always makes it taste better.


    Ilisti frowned, and cknail didnt think it was because of his culinary advice. We vympirs dont really consider ourselves humans, and most men agree with the distinction.


    Thats silly, cknail huffed. As someone who really isnt human, I know what humans look like. Having red eyes and magic doesnt make you all that different. Mutant wolves are still wolves, and they usually lead wolf packs, sort of like you and your men.


    The vympir looked uncertain but then a momentter he nodded thoughtfully. Perhaps you are right. You certainly see the issue from a fresh perspective. Huh, you have given me something unexpected to think about, my unusual green friend.


    I like being unexpected, cknail replied cheerfully. It made it easier to take things and stab people.


    Well, I should get back to my own men. I bid you goodnight, Ilisti told them all before nodding and walking away.


    Garen stayed until his liege was out of sight, and then he frowned at cknail. He lets you get away with so much. Your inhumanity protects you. You are outside all our social norms, and he doesnt hold your ignorance of them against you. He has killed men for a fraction of the disrespect you show.


    Plus Im handsome! cknail added.


    Garen scowled disapprovingly at the hobgoblin, but then Khita leaned closer and smiled at him. The vympir hesitated and then beat a quick retreat.


    Hes very flighty for a monster from legend, Khita remarked.


    cknail rolled his eyes. You can annoy anyone or anything.


    Soon after that, everyone tucked in for the night. Their sleep was uninterrupted by attacks by unknown terrors from the Green, and they woke up the next morning ready to continue on their way back to Shelter.


    Sometime after noon, cknail found himself leading the main body again while his hobgoblins were out scouting. Garen and Khita were with him, but Ilisiti was at the back somewhere, and Elyias was actually with some of the hobgoblins. He had apparently decided they were less threatening than vympirs. The way his mind worked was a mystery. Khita was doing her best to draw Garen into a conversation, while Garen did his stoic best to ignore her.


    Walking so much was beginning to bore cknail. Movement in the forest up ahead drew his attention, but it turned out to just be two hobgoblins. They pushed through the bushes at the edge of the forest and headed over to report to their chieftain. They looked to be in a hurry, so something was probably happening.


    cknail sighed in resignation as he watched them approach. I sort of miss doing my own scouting, but Im an important leader now. I dont get to explore the forest and almost nothing exciting happens without someone telling me about it beforehand.


    I think thats the entire point of having scouts, Garen remarked dryly.


    cknail shrugged. They are also more people for me to boss around.


    The lead hobgoblin raised an arm and shouted. Boss! Trouble. There is a troll lurking about in the forest nearby. It has seen some of the humans and is stalking them now.


    Ill go get my lord! Garen eximed as he ran back toward the other humans.


    cknail watched him go and the turned back to the scout. It is probably looking for an easy target, so we have a bit of time. Where is Elyias?


    Hes with the scouts we sent to watch the troll, the scout exined.


    Huh, cknail remarked. That didnt sound like something Elyias would do. Did you tell him that was where he was going?


    No. We wanted it to be a surprise.


    Good job, cknail replied as he gave the hobgoblin scout a thumbs up.


    I hear we have visitor! Ilisiti yelled as he ran over with Garen at his side. He was wearing a chainmail shirt with long sleeves and armored boots.


    Yes, I was just thinking about how we were going to scare it away, cknail replied. Trolls mad him nervous.


    Nonsense, it has been too long since myst troll hunt, Ilisti countered. Just point me in its direction and I will kill it.


    What? cknail couldnt believe his ears. His jaw hung slightly open, as he turned and gave Ilisti an uprehending stare. You want to fight it? For fun?


    Yes, trolls arent too dangerous for a vympir as long as they dont grow overconfident, Ilisti exined as he smiled in anticipation. I will have my weapons, armor, and men-at-arms with me to contain it and drive it off if I be injured.


    Troll hunting is traditional for western lords. It impresses on others their might and power, Garen added.


    cknail shook his head in disbelief. It works. Im impressed.


    Do they not hunt trolls in the East? Ilisti asked curiously.


    Not unless they have no choice, cknail answered. Ive hunted one with my old master once, but only because it was stalking us and we had to kill it before it killed us.


    I wish I could have been there, but that was before I joined, Khita remarked wistfully. At least I will get to see a troll today! Ive never seen one before.


    You dont hunt drakes, do you? cknail asked the vympirs. That was the only beast more dangerous than trolls that he could think of.


    Ilistiughed. Ha, no. Even the ancient blood has limits, and being swallowed alive by a giant lizard is one of them.


    Good, cknail remarked in relief. He wasnt nning on going anywhere near a drake anytime soon, and he didnt want a suicidal ally.


    As they were talking, a squad of a dozen men hurried over. They were carrying various pieces of equipment including armor and several longnces. The men immediately began strapping the armor onto Ilisti. When they were done, one of them handed the vympir a steel helmet with a full facete and decorative bat wings on the sides.


    Ilisti tucked the helmet under his arm and turned to cknail. Alright, take me to the troll. It would be shame if it decided to wander off before we got to it.


    cknail looked over at the scouts. The lead one shrugged, so cknail sighed and motioned for them to lead the way, which they promptly did. They headed over into the forest at the side of the road, and everyone else followed them, including a dozen of Ilistis men who held long spears.


    cknail noticed that Ilsiti moved surprisingly quietly considering all the metal he was wearing. He avoided branches and soft earth with ease. It must have been because of his vympir strength and great bnce. How strong were vympirs? cknail had been assuming they werent much different from vessels, but if they hunted trolls then that might not be the case. He hoped they werent too strong. He hade here looking for an ally that needed him, not a new rival he didnt understand.


    The forest was fairly open here next to the road. The trees were tall with rough brown bark, but they had no branches near the ground and there was enough space between them that you could see fairly far. There was also next to no bushes or tall nts to block peoples sight.


    After a few moments of walking, the mixed group of men and hobgoblins encountered another pair of hobgoblins that were warily watching the forest up ahead. They gave the neers a quick nce and then turned back to watch the trees.


    The troll beast is just on the other side of that hill, their guide exined quietly


    Good. Ill handle it from here, Ilisit remarked with a smile. Hunting trolls isntplicated. Ill go in first to get its attention, while my men and you surround it. It will focus on me.


    Do you want us to do anything? cknail asked him.


    Just help out my men if they engage. Otherwise stay out of the way. Garen and my men know what to do.


    Not a problem. Good luck! cknail told him. He was nning on staying as far back possible and seeing what happened. It would at the very least be an interesting show.


    As everyone watched, Ilisti lifted hisnce and began walking forward. Garen and his soldiers let him get twenty feet ahead and then fanned out after him in a loose formation. All of them were walking carefully with raised spears, including Garen who held two longnces. cknail gave them a few seconds and then followed with his minions in tow. Those hobgoblins that had bows readied them, although arrows wouldnt do much against a troll. The only vulnerable spots on trolls were their small eyes, and they didnt hold still so you could line up a shot.


    Ilisti stopped atop the slope, and there was a rustling sound from down below. cknail tensed as Ilsiti began edging forward. The human men-at-arms began spreading out to encircle the target, and the hobgoblin stayed atop the hill so that they could see what was happening. Below, the troll emerged from behind arge tree.


    The beast was huge, as all trolls were. Standing on two legs, it towered over even Ilisti, who was very tall himself. Its thick hide was sttered in mud and had tufts of brown hair. Its elongated arms hung almost to the ground, and long ck ws sprouted from its thick fingers. It gazed at the vympir before it with beady red eyes that were set below a thick forehead, and boar-like tusks protruded from its lips. All in all, it looked like what it was, an unthinking killing machine.


    Its a bit of a runt, Ilisti remarked in disappointment as he studied it.


    A thunderous snort exploded out of the beasts nostrils as it stepped towards him. It seemed slightly confused by the vympirs behavior. The human wasnt running and it didnt seem frozen by fear, however that didnt matter to much to the troll. It had only one real reaction to almost every situation anyway, hunt and kill. With startling speed, the troll reached out with its ws and lunged at Ilisti. cknail held his breath.

 The Noble Thirst 5

    The Noble Thirst 5


    Branches and leaves were shredded and brushed aside as the troll leapt through the forest at Ilisti, and the its long deadly ws reached out for him. Killing intent radiated out from the beast. It was unrestrained violence in motion, and it moved almost too quickly for cknail to keep track off, but Ilisti was ready. In one fluid motion, the vympir stepped to the side and lowered his stance, as he brought up the tip of hisnce. The trolls ws missed him by mere inches and caught only empty air, but his weapon sank into the flesh beneath the beasts shoulder, pushing it back. The force of the blow was incredible, but the butt of thence was set against the earth, and although it shivered, the sturdy weapon did not break. It kept the troll away from Ilisti.


    Roaring savagely in pain, the troll swiped at the vympir with a w. Its eyes were wide with hate, and its thunderous voice ripped through the forest as its mouth stretched opened to reveal countless jagged yellow teeth. Ilisiti ducked and raised an arm to protect his head. There was a terrible scratching noise as the trolls ws scrapped against his armor. He was knocked slightly back by the force, but he quickly righted himself and kept his bnce. The troll hissed as it tried to press forward and snap at Ilisiti with its jaws, but its body was held back by the rootednce. In front of the deadly monstrosity, Ilisiti didnt freeze or hesitate. He was unflinching as he drew a long knife from his waist, and he grunted loudly as he rammed it up under the trolls ribs. It sank up to the hilt, but the troll didnt bleed. Thick green fluid oozed out of the wound for a second and then it dried, sealing the wound.


    Dumbfounded, cknail could only stare at the spectacle. The power of bothbatants was unreal. Their might defied belief, and dwarfed that of humans or hobgoblins. One of swing of the trolls ws would have sent cknail flying, even if he had been wearing armor, and the idea of standing in front of charging troll was ludicrous, but it had appeared to work.


    Thebat didnt let up. Ilisti stabbed the troll again with his long knife. Trolls werent the smartest of creatures, they didnt need to be, but this one knew it had to try something else. Its ws werent doing much damage to the armored vympir who was enthusiastically trying to gut it. Eyeing thence keeping it at bay, it raised a fist and smashed down on the weapons shaft. The wood splintered, and Ilisti jumped backward out of the way.


    Lance! he yelled as he raised a hand.


    Immediately, Garen pressed forward and threw him a new weapon. Ilisti caught it and leveled it at the troll. The red-eyed beast wavered as it studied its unexpectedly tough opponent, but it was a predator and it didnt flee from creatures that were so much smaller than itself. Instead, it made a hissing noise like a kettle full of very angry snakes and stepped forward again.


    The beast moved with new wariness as it shed at Ilisti with a w, but the vympir deftly stepped aside and responded with a stab of hisnce that forced the troll to back off. Frustrated, the beast swiped at the weapon, but Ilisti danced thence out of the way and then shed the trolls lead leg. It was a superficial wound, but it annoyed the creature.


    Its too cautious. Harry it forward, Ilisti yelled as heunched a series of quick stabs that failed to damage the troll but distracted it for several seconds.


    Immediately, most of the arms-men that had been hanging back behind Ilisti rushed out to nk the troll from both sides. Garen led half of them as they circled behind the beast. Once in position, they began stompin their feet and yelling. The troll growled at them but didnt dare turn away from Ilisti. However, this new threat unnerved it. It didnt like being surrounded, and it wanted out. Its eyes locked on Ilsiti as it realized that the vympir was now standing alone. The green giant roared again and charged forward, with the intent of battering Ilisti aside. The vympir had other ns. He rushed to meet the charge and ruined the beasts angle of attack. Instead ofing at Ilisiti from an angle, the twobatants hit each other head on.


    Ilisti ducked under a swipe from the troll and raised his weapon. The trolls bulk barreled forward, and the tip of the weapon sank into its gut. Quick as a snake, Ilisti managed to set the butt of his weapon against the earth, and once again the trolls own power drove thence through its tough hide and into its soft flesh. It shrieked in pain as it tried to back away, and one of its iling limbs hit Ilisti square in the chest. The heavily armored vympir was sent flying sideways and hit a tree before falling to the ground in a shower of leaves.


    Watching from a safe distance away, cknail winced. Ouch.


    However, Ilisti didnt stay down. Almost immediately he climbed to his feet. The troll had taken a few a few steps past him, but its injuries obviously pained it and hampered its movements. It walked with a limp, and there were now twonce shafts sticking out of its body. Garen ran over and handed his lord a longsword, and then Ilisti began stomping over to the troll.


    Realizing it couldnt get away, the beast stopped trying to flee and turned to face its challenger. Its voice shook the trees as it roared again, but Ilisti kepting. It shed at him, but he dodged back and cut at the trolls arms. The creature was definitely moving slower now, while Ilisti didnt even seem tired, despite his crash into the tree.


    Thebatants exchanged a flurry of blows, which resulted in the troll gaining a series of small wounds all over its body, all of which instantly closed up, but then the troll stumbled. Halfway through a swing of one of its arms, its back leg gave out. Ilisti seized the advantage. He spun around the beasts outstretched arm, and raised his de up high. With all his power, the vympir chopped down at the trolls neck. The de sliced through air and into flesh. There was a wet thud as metal hit bone and cut into it. As Ilisti pulled his de free, the long ragged wound began to fill with green ooze, but that didnt stop the troll from falling. There was another thud as the beast hit the ground face first amid a small cloud of dust. It shuddered a few times and then went still. Was it dead? cknail wasnt sure. He was still shocked, and he hadnt seen many dead trolls.


    Ilisti seemed to think he was victorious. He dropped his de and stepped back away from his fallen opponent. An arms-man ran over to pick up his lords sword, while two others approached and poked the trolls sides with their spears. It didnt move.


    Taking off his helmet, Ilisti turned to give cknail a satisfied look. Not a bad hunt. The troll looked a little gaunt, though. Which is strange for a healthy adult. They rarely have trouble hunting in forest such as this. The area must be short on game for some reason. Still, its a shame I have no hall to hang its head in. It wouldnt be a bad trophy


    cknail snorted. Im sure youll get a hall for yourself eventually. I know some that wouldnt be all that hard for you to take. In fact, if the bout he had just seen was any indication, cknail wasnt sure he had ever encountered a building that Ilisti couldnt have taken with ease.


    Ilisti grinned. True, but keeping it is the problem. I wouldnt want to live anywhere that I would have to deal with constant attacks by your cults or pdins.


    They arent my pdins, cknail replied with a roll of his eyes. Ive only ever met one, and now that you mention it, Im not even sure what theyre supposed to do.


    Ah, thats right. I keep forgetting about your unusual upbringing, even if youre an Easterner.


    The fact that Im green should remind you, cknail pointed out dryly.


    Ha, yes. However, you can also talk, which sometimes confuses me. Did the pdin by chance survive your meeting? the vympir asked. He was clearly fishing for information. Hed perked up the moment cknail had mentioned meeting a pdin.


    It was a long time ago. I wasnt allowed to kill him, but we ended up exploding a giant snake together, so it all worked out.


    Ilisitis eyes grew unfocused for a second. Um, good?


    I liked it, cknail replied with a smug grin. He wasnt going to give too much away without getting anything back in return.


    The vympirs men began cleaning up, and cknail sent his scouts out to make sure all the noise hadnt attracted anything else dangerous. Trolls were solitary creatures and their presence usually scared most other beasts away, but not everything. It was possible a mutant or a drake woulde looking for the source of all themotion.


    When they got back to the road and rejoined the others, cknail took a moment to think over what he had just witnessed. It was obvious that hed underestimated his new vympir ally a lot. Ilisti was an incredibly formidable fighter. He was both very fast and far stronger than any vessel cknail had ever encountered. He would make a useful ally, but also a terrible rival.


    cknail didnt like being the weaker partner in an alliance. He was supposed to be in charge, but it seemed likely that Ilisti would eventually try to assert authority over him. The man was very proud and forceful. The only reason he really need cknail was for his expertise and skill as a guide, and over time that value would slip as Ilisti established himself in the East. However, cknail didnt have any intention of giving up his position as boss. He would have to take steps to keep Ilisti in check and to learn more about him and vympirs. They must have some sort of weakness he could exploit. They probably werent immune to being killed in their sleep, and fire killed almost everything.


    After Ilisti had taken off his armor and everyone involved in the hunt had taken a quick break, the expedition started moving again. Men called out, and the cart creaked as the horse pulling it began walking again. It was still a long way to Shelter. cknail took up his position at the front of the group, while Garen and Ilisti kept to the back for a while. It wasnt until thete afternoon that the vympirs reemerged. With Garen in tow, Ilisti approached cknail.


    Greetings. How fare you? Ilisti asked as he walked over.


    cknail rolled his eyes before turning around. Im tired of walking and annoyed that I have to keep doing it for days. My feet hurt and the world is too big.


    Ah, perhaps. I hope you enjoyed the hunt earlier.


    You certainly outsmarted that starving troll that my minions found, and it was fun to watch you stab it a lot, cknail replied. He was feeling a little surly, but he tried to keep his tone respectful.


    Thanks, Ilisti responded in a dry tone, while Garen red at the hobgoblin.


    Did you want something else? cknail asked.


    Yes, I find you to be an interesting conversationalist, despite your peculiarities, or maybe because of them. Talking with you is always amusing and sometimes surprisingly illuminating. Also, allies should get to know each other.


    That suited cknails purposes so he nodded. What do you want to talk about? I know a lot about quite a few interesting things, like all the best mushrooms you can eat.


    Ah, Im curious about the East. I must admit to never having travelled past Westwatch, although Ive heard a lot about it. It must be quite different than the West.


    The people are friendlier, if they dont know youre a hobgoblin, the trees are the same, and there are fewer vympirs, cknail exined as he began to describe some of the other difference he had noticed. He hadnt seen all that much of the West but he had noticed a few things.


    Oh, and the people in the West smell less like sweat and more like bitter herbs. They must eat a lot of onions, cknail finished before asking a question of his own. He thought it was particrly important to describe exactly how everything smelled because humans had such useless noses. Whats it like being a vympir?


    Ilsiti stood up straight and spoke in a reverent tone. The burden of our responsibilities and power weighs heavy on us, but we have a sworn duty to protect our people.


    That didnt tell cknail anything he wanted to know, although he hadnt expected the vympir to just blurt out his secret weakness. The hobgoblin asked a few more questions but didnt learn anything important, and after talking for several minutes both parties fell silent and concentrated on walking.


    The next two days were rather uneventful, but on the third they neared Westwatch. While everyone else set up camp on a hidden hill in the forest, cknail sent Khita and Elyias into town to look around. He had been gone a while now, and he had a lot of new faces with him, so he didnt want to run into trouble. Going himself would be riskier since he would have to go in disguise. It would also have required him to walk around, and his feet deserved a break.


    cknail was sitting on a log next to a campfire and wiggling his bare toes to get his blood flowing, when he saw Khita and Elyias return. They looked aggravated, which wasnt good and probably meant that they had something bad to tell him.


    We have a problem, Khita announced sourly to confirm the hobgoblins suspicions.


    cknail let his foot drop and sighed. You never bring me good news. Why do I send you ces?


    That doesnt make sense. Im not responsible for what I find.


    Maybe you should be, cknail responded. He would get more good new that way.


    Are you going to actually listen to what I found?


    I suppose Id better. Its my duty as your leader. What did you see in the town? Was it more trolls? A drake? Two drakes?


    Khita red at cknail. Why would there be a troll or a drake in a town. No, its Werricks men. Theyve taken over the ce.


    After listening to what Khita said, cknail immediately put his shoes on and went to find Ilisti. The vympir needed to hear this.


    So, what seems to be the problem? We havent even truly left the West yet, Ilisti asked once cknail had gotten everyone together.


    My enemy Werrick has been moving quickly while I was gone. His men have taken Westwatch, and his troops watch the roads now, cknail exined.


    This news caused Ilisti to frown and look thoughtful, while behind him, Garen kept his expression neutral and unreadable.


    Khita gave the noble a cautious look and then spoke up in a respectful tone. Its not just here in this town, either. I talked to a bunch of people on the street and everyone is saying that the Wolf is taking over everywhere. He has troops in all the important towns and viges, and he is even collecting dues now!


    No one is doing anything to stop him, Elyias added. Theyve all just rolled over like dogs. The bastard is actually doing it! He is setting himself up as some sort of king.


    That is upsetting, and not just because of the consequences to the ns we discussed, Ilisti remarked carefully. There has always been an unspoken agreement about this ce, that no one would im it. Thus, your cults and lords have touched it only lightly, and those of the ancient blood have avoided it. Westwatch has always served as a buffer betweennds.


    Khita shrugged. I guess no one told Werrick that, and technically he is still just a bandit, even if everyone works for him and he also wants to be king. He probably sees no reason not to take it like every other town.


    Ilisti nodded. Such is the way of tyrants; however, his ignorance is not an excuse. There will be repercussions for this action.


    Like what? cknail asked. He didnt get it. From what hed heard the western nobles didnt exactly get along with each other, or even talk all that much.


    A powerful noble might attempt to conquer the town and wrest it from this Werrick, while iming it was self-defense, and his peers may look the other way now. They would have quickly acted to remove him before, so that he wouldnt draw too much attention to the presence of the ancient blood.


    Huh, are you thinking of giving it a shot?Khit asked.


    Ilisti chuckled dryly. Maybe, but not anytime soon. I dont have the forces to hold such a prize as of this moment, to say nothing of cating the popce.


    So, what are you nning on doing about all this? Khita asked cknail. Youre the boss.


    The hobgoblin chieftain scratched his nose and began thinking. We could probably slip past their patrols on the road, after killing only a few of them.


    Ilisti coughed politely to get everyones attention. But then we would have to worry about their presence behind us, and whether or not they can get a message out. It is possible they might coordinate and set up a blockade in front of us.


    cknail shrugged. I can lead us around any other humans that show up.


    Id rather not waste time running and hiding. It is not in my nature, Ilisti replied. This Werrick has overextended himself here. He obviously doesnt expect a creditable challenge to emerge, and his position seems weak. I believe the best move would be to smash his local forces, and then move on with our rear secure. My men can easily handle the troops the young woman saw within the city.


    Sure, we could do that, cknail agreed. It sounded like Ilisits men would be doing all the hard work anyway.


    Hmm, there is one thing I didnt mention, but probably should if were going to start a brawl, Khita added. Rumor has it that Wolfys men have twobat mages with them.


    Ilisti frowned. Wisemen? I dont know much about them, or their capabilities inbat. In the West, they are considered dangerous and their powers are shunned by both the nobles and themon folk.


    Smart, Elyias huffed quietly to himself as he gave the vympir a critical look. He obviously wondered why they tolerated vympirs.


    Mages blow stuff up a lot. They point their staff at you and then <strong>boom!</strong> Fire or lightning shoots out and you die, cknail exined before reciting some of his more exciting experiences fighting mages. It was kind of weird that he had done it so many times


    Ilisiti listened patiently before speaking up again. It sounds like my n is still viable, with some alterations and a little aid from the hobgoblins.


    cknail licked his lips and smiled eagerly. Yes, lets sack a city. Ive always wanted to do that.


    Werrick had made his move, so now cknail needed to make one of his own. The people of the North only obeyed Werrick because they were afraid of him, however they would soon learn that the Wolf was far from the most terrifying warrior around. It was time for cknail to announce his glorious self to the world. Joy! He could already taste the blood and ash.

 The Noble Thirst 6

    The Noble Thirst 6


    The walls of Westwatchy before cknail. They were twice a mans height and constructed of irregr rocks being held in ce by gritty grey mortar. The materials had undoubtedly been taken from the rocky hills that surrounded the town. Like most human walls in the North, this one had been constructed primarily to keep dangerous wildlife out. Bears, wolves, and even trolls would have a hard time getting through or over it, which undoubtedly made the people within feel much safer. The wall also helped keep unwanted people from getting into the town, but not reliably. It could be scaled by a determined invader since most of its length wasnt watched, and it was barely a barrier at all for cknail and his hobgoblins. Most of them had already climbed over it. Their light bodies and sharp ws made them excellent climbers, especially if they took off their boots so that they could use their sharp toenails.


    The noonday sun was almostpletely overhead, as cknail jumped down off the wall and onto the ground inside. He was now in a dirty alley, and there were rough-looking houses with thatch roofs to either side. As his minions gathered behind him, cknail pulled up his hood and rearranged his clothes toplete his disguise and cover his skin. His minions did likewise, and once everyone was ready, the hobgoblins began to move carefully deeper into the city.


    With wary anticipation, the hobgoblins crept through the back alleys and toward their goal, the city gates. cknail had infiltrated the city and scouted out the ce earlier in the day, so he knew where to go and the best way to get there undetected. There was a guard tower next to the gate that was always upied by at least one sentry and several guards. That meant attacking it directly would be a difficult. Luckily, there were several spots along the wall that were unwatched, like the one that cknail and his minions had just climbed over.


    There were a few people on the streets, but the hobgoblins easily avoided them. The city was nervous and on edge. The upation by Werricks men was recent and the townsfolk hadnt had time to get used to it. This worked in cknails advantage in some ways, though. Few people would be rushing to report suspicious activity to the upiers.


    cknail leaned out from behind the corner of a building to study a structure across the street. It was a long two-story building made of brick and stone. It was surrounded by an old low stone wall that looked like it was being worked on and shored up, although there were no workers present right now. This was the ce that Werricks men had taken as their headquarters in Westwatch. It was both defensible and just down the street from the city gates. cknail studied it for a few moments, but he didnt see any activity at the windows or anyone outside, so he signaled to his minions and they continued on.


    The hobgoblins hurried down the road and past an abandoned cart, before darting back into an alley where they could look out at the gate. There was a simple guard tower next to a double wooden door that could be swung shut to block the way into the city. There were several armed men loitering around near the bottom of the tower. As cknail watched, a man on horseback approached from outside. One of the guards walked over to talk to him, and then waved him inside a momentter. None of the other guards did more than look over briefly. Most of them were leaning up against the wall or standing aroundzily. They didnt seem that organized or motivated, which was what cknail expected from Werricks men. They had all probably been deserters and bandits not too long ago.


    After taking a moment to go over the n in his head again and make sure he had it right, cknail looked back over his shoulder. There were two dozen hobgoblins behind him, and all of them looked ready to go. Most of them were grinning in anticipation and licking their lips. Their preyy ahead, and they had been promised blood and loot. Hobgoblins were simple creatures. That was all they wanted from life, and cknail didnt mind giving it to them.


    Its time to wet your teeth and des with red, but remember the n, cknail said as he gave them all a harsh re. Sow chaos and take out any armed humans you see, but be ready to regroup on the signal. If you run off or get lost then you will be left behind, and you will get a kicking from me if you somehow survive, which is unlikely.


    Yes, boss! several of the hobgoblins instantly replied. Some of them also threw him sloppy salutes. The others just nodded and grinned in delight.


    cknail wasnt convinced that they would obey. Sighing to himself, he pulled out a vial of Elixir and took a swig from it. He then charged across the road, as his minions fell in behind him. They raced toward the unsuspecting guards, most of whom were looking out in the wrong direction, since they assumed any attack woulde from outside the city. It wasnt until cknail was within thirty feet of them that someone raised the rm. A guard near the wall had turned to look in their direction and seen them.


    Watch out! I think were under attack from within, the man yelled to hispanions as he drew his sword.


    The other guards reacted quickly, despite their surprise. They drew their weapons as they spun around. Six of them clustered together, and they stepped forward to form a line and buy time for their allies. cknail swerved to meet them, as he drew his own weapon. Right before meeting the enemy, he burned a bit of Elixir and sped up ahead of his minions. Power red throughout his body and carried him forward. Air flowed around him and pulled his hood back, as he mmed into the guards. Heughed manically, and his de shed as he hacked at the lead guards exposed arm. The man screamed and stumbled back as his flesh was cut and blood spurted out. cknails speed and fury had shocked them.


    Its a hobgoblin. They all are! one of the men yelled. He sounded shocked and more than a little scared, which excited cknail.


    By the gods, youre right! another guard at the back of the group facing the hobgoblins shouted in response. He was so terrified that his voice broke, and he stumbled backwards.


    Sensing their sweet fear, cknail redoubled his assault. He didnt need the strange magical sense that hed gained to know that fear was slowing the mens responses, but he used it. As he batted aside a shaky de, cknail reached out with his magic and touched his preys'' minds. He could sense the glowing fear in their minds, and it was simple for him to feed that spark and make it grow into a fire.


    Ducking under an off-bnce sh at his head, cknail stabbed the attacker in the gut and then quickly withdrew his de. The man spat up blood and fell. Swirling about, cknail blocked another sh and kicked the swordsman in the groin. There was a satisfying crunch and the man squeaked shrilly as he rose up an inch into the air. cknail was already turning to deal with his next target, and then his hobgoblin minions crashed into the guards. Frozen in fear and with cknail running amok in their midst, they were cut down like wheat by the wave of hobgoblins.


    Anotherrge group of about half a dozen guards had formed beneath the sentry tower. After finishing off a fallen guard by shing his neck, cknail stalked over to confront them. He wanted to keep fighting. The scent of blood saturated the air, and it filled cknail with red-hot energy, mixing with the power of the Elixir that pumped though his veins, driving him forward. He needed to fight and dance upon the corpses of his vanquished foes. What joy that would bring!


    Hesitantly, a guard with a spear stepped forward and stabbed at cknail. The hobgoblin grinned as he danced aside and then lunged forward with his de raised high. He shed down, and the terrified guard jumped back. The guard hit the man behind him and they both fell in a pile. cknail took this opportunity to unleash a flurry of blows upon all the other assembled guards. His sword knocked des aside and cut through flesh, until several other hobgoblins joined him in cutting down thest few survivors. When the final one was dead, cknail took a deep breath to calm his fury and looked around. It was probably time for him to do boss things, so he needed to keep his head clear.


    There were no guards left standing anywhere in sight, although there were corpses piled everywhere, including one that belonged to a hobgoblin. One of his arms had been mangled and hung loose. The cut must have hit a vein because the hobgobliny in a pool of his own blood. cknail scowled at the corpse for a moment and then moved on. He could afford to lose minions, and it hadnt been anyone important. In fact, cknail had found the dead hobgoblin to be one of his more annoying minions. If he had been better at life he would still be alive now, but he hadnt been, so his death wasnt cknails fault.


    Just then, there was a stomping of boots. cknail looked up in rm, in case it was enemy reinforcements, but he quickly realized the noise wasing from the wrong direction. The stomping sound was rising from outside the gate, which meant it was probably allies. Indeed, when cknail looked over, he saw Ilisti leading a formation of troops inside the city. The vympir was fully armored in chain and te, but he was wearing a new helm. Unlike the one he had worn when facing the troll, this one was open at the front so that his mouth was visible, even if his nose and eyes were protected. Behind the vympir''s men, came Khita and Elyias.


    Ha, I see everything is going well so far. Youve secured the gate for us without any problems. That speaks well of your capability, Ilisti remarked as he walked over to cknails side. He sounded excited.


    Yes, but thats the easy part, cknail replied. Now you need to hold the gate.


    The vympir turned to study the city. We can handle it. Have you seen any sign of the wise-men?


    cknail shook his head. No, they must be hiding, but if they show themselves I will deal with them, as I promised I would. Mages die easily enough if you do it right.


    Make sure of it, Ilisti replied grimly. For all is supposed confidence, he sounded a little fearful of the mages.


    I will. Just hold the gate and wait, cknail told him before turning and walking back to his minions.


    Im going with you, Khita yelled as she ran after him. cknail sighed but didnt try to dissuade her. He was busy, and it wasnt worth the effort.


    At this point, most the hobgoblins were either watching Ilistis men or looting the fallen guards. However, they had all been keeping an eye on their leader and formed up when he yelled to get their attention. They knew they would get a kicking if they ignored him or looked inattentive.


    cknail pointed to a pair of hobgoblins. You two stay with me. The rest of you, start setting fires and chasing people, but dont go far and watch for the signals. You all know the n. Follow it.


    The hobgoblins nodded and did as they were told. Most of them had already dropped their hoods, but those that hadnt did so now. For this next part of the action, cknail wanted everyone to know who was attacking. It was time to make sure everyone heard of cknail the hobgoblin and his tribe of savage killers. Word of his might and ability to fight Werrick needed to spread throughout the North.


    The hobgoblins had orders to spread out and sow chaos, and thats what they did. The hobgoblins ran down the streets and began busting through windows and ransacking everything in sight. There were screams as people inside the nearby homes saw them.


    Sweet, Im getting in on this, Khita shouted as she ran over to join them.


    cknail sighed again, but let her go. The town was apparently going to be raided by a bunch of hobgoblins and one young redheaded woman. Whatever. He didnt want to look after her anyway.


    cknail led the minions he had selected over towards the enemy base. The streets werepletely empty now. Shouts from the fighting and bystanders who had ran off had alerted the city that someone was attacking the gate. The townsfolk had reacted by withdrawing into their homes and hoping whatever was happening passed them by. However, cknail did see several people peek out at him from nearby windows. He ignored them, and led his minions to a two story home he had picked out earlier. cknail kicked the door open and stormed inside. There was a brief scuffle as they subdued the surprised man inside, but then they left his unconscious body behind and headed upstairs. Up there, cknail walked over to a bedroom window and looked out. He could see both the enemy base and all the streets around it clearly.


    The walledpound that Werricks men had taken as their own was buzzing with activity now. Dozens of men were running in and out, and a mob was forming up in the courtyard out front. They already outnumbered Ilistis troops, and more men were still joining them, but that was Ilistis problem. cknail ignored them and looked for any sign of the mages. Dealing with them was his mission, however he didnt see anyone holding a staff or disying any other signs that they were mages. Everyone he could see looked like thugs or soldiers.


    Patiently, cknail watched for several minutes as the soldiers finished assembling and headed off to the gate, but neither of the mages showed themselves. A few momentster, the sound of fighting reached cknails ears, but he couldnt see what was going at the gate from his vantage point. He didnt hear any explosions though, so Ilisti was probably fine. If he could handle a troll he could deal with some normal human soldiers.


    Just as he was about to give up and retreat, cknail spotted movement in thepound. A small squad of soldiers rushed out and began running to the gate. In their midst was a man holding a long staff.


    cknail grinned There he is!


    The guy you want to kill? a hobgoblin asked as he perked up and looked over cknails shoulder.


    There wasnt enough room at the window for everyone, and hobgoblins got bored easily, so they had found ways to distract themselves. One hobgoblin had been sleeping on the bed, and the other had carried the unconscious man upstairs and had been poking him in the hope that he would wake up, so he could knock him unconscious again.


    Yes, were going to kill him, cknail replied as he rushed out of the room.


    Yeah! the hobgoblins eximed as they followed after him.


    The group of soldiers with the mage had already passed by the house, so cknail slipped out the front door and quickly followed them. The street was empty except for the mages guards.


    Get your bows ready, told his minions as he readied his own.


    The best way to kill mages was from afar, before they saw youing. It was easier not to die in a fiery explosion that way.


    Release all together at mymand, cknail ordered the hobgoblins when they all had their bows in hand. Go!


    One of the guards heard something and turned to look, but it was toote. Four arrows zoomed through the air towards the mages exposed back. Two of them missedpletely, but the others passed through the soldiers and mmed into the mage. As the mage dropped his staff and fell, his guards spun around.


    Now we leave, cknail remarked as he dashed away at top speed. He could probably finish the soldiers himself, but that wasnt his job, and he needed to keep an eye out for the other mage.


    After them! one of the soldiers yelled.


    Instead of going back to the house, cknail slipped into an alley and headed for the gate. It was time to check on the fight there, and he wanted to make sure that the second mage hadnt somehow slipped by him.


    With the dead mages guards in pursuit, cknail and his minions zipped through a maze of alleys and then scrambled up a drain pipe and over a wall. There was cursing from behind him as the guards were forced to stop in front of the barrier. Ignoring them, cknail led the way down another alley. There was a pile of barrels there he used as a springboard so that he could jump up and reach the roof. Pulling himself up, he crouched on the roof and surveyed the fight happening at the gate.


    Ilisitis men were still outnumbered but they were holding their ground. They had formed up into a bent line formation right in front of the gate, with Ilisti himself at the front. The vympir was cutting down enemy soldiers left and right as Werricks men tried to push him and his men outside the city. They werent having much luck. Down the street, a few buildings were starting to catch fire, and cknail saw two hobgoblins chase a man down the road.


    Can we join in the fun? a hobgoblin asked as he crouched down beside cknail. I want to find some shiny trophies to take.


    Fine, lets go, cknail responded.


    He had no idea where the other mage was, but Ilisti didnt look like he needed any help. The men attacking him were like water sshing against a rock. As cknail watched, Ilisti grabbed an enemy swordsman, picked him up, and bit his neck before throwing him aside. Ya, it was time for cknail to start rounding up his minions. Also, he needed to go look for Khita. Knowing her, she was probably doing something stupid that would ruin all his ns if he didnt stop her.

 Interlude: A Singular Purpose

    Interlude: A Singr Purpose


    A skittering sound echoed out from every direction. It wasnt that loud, but the sound bounced eerily through the dark confines of the tunnel. Unfazed, the watcher waited patiently in the darkness as the noise grew louder. Soon it wouldplete the mission that it had beenmanded to fulfill, and service to the Host was all. It was a warrior and the purpose of life was obedience.


    The cave around the warrior was dark and dank. The only sources of light were small glowing mushrooms that grew in clumps on the ground and from the walls, but that was enough for the warrior. Its four eyes shimmered as they drank up all the light, and they allowed the warrior to see the shiny Harvester beetles that were tending to the nearby mushrooms.


    A few momentster, a mob of shadowy figures emerged from a side passage. The mass of skinny limbs and dark carapace came to stop before the watcher, and the skittering sound died down. The new arrivals were short. They didnt evene up to the watchers shoulders. One of the creatures stepped forward and began making a strange mix of hisses and clicks. It was a member of the Hosts worker cast.


    The warrior listened and then replied in a simr way. When he was done, the lead worker bowed, and the warrior began to return the way he hade. The tunnel was once again full of the sound of ws scrapping against stone as the workers followed him.


    They passed several small Harvester ntations, which they left alone out of respect. The mounds were built from piles of organic mass gathered from the depths and above ground. They were covered in many different types of mushrooms, some of which glowed or glimmered different colors. Sometimes shapes that were muchrger than harvesters moved among the fungi, but the shadowy creatures all avoided or fled from the travelers. Clusters of stctites hung from the ceilings, and asionally drops of water dripped down from them to ssh against the stone floor. The mob of skittering creatures moved past it all unimpeded.


    Soon, they emerged into a circr cavern that was illuminated by a dull light. Across the chamber stood two more warriors, who were guarding the far passage. Both the warriors were armored in thick ck carapace, had four shining eyes, and sharp mandibles protruding from their mouths. Like the workers, they had six legs, but they were standing on four of them. Using their top pair of limbs, one of the warriors held a long spear, while the other held a tall staff. Both the staff and the spear were made from a bone-white material that was twisted and looked like it had been grown instead of crafted. The top of the staff held a glowing white crystal, which was the source of the dim light that filled the cave.


    After a brief nod of acknowledgement from the guards, the newly arrived warrior led his worker charges into the passage beyond them. They came out into a huge cavern that had a high roof and was hundreds of feet across. An underground river flowed through the middle of it, filling the chamber with a gentlepping sound. Around the river, dozens of workers were busy with varied tasks. Using their ws, they tended to the heaps of dirt and refuse they had collected. Like giant Harvesters, the workers built and rooted through the piles. However, they werent growing mushrooms. There were very little fungi in sight. Instead, the workers seemed to be reaching inside the piles and extracting something. ws emerged from dark rotting soil with long white fments clutched within them. The thin shapes squirmed and iled about in the air as the beetle-like workers gathered them. They were worms. The entire cavern was a farm for huge white worms.


    The warrior was undaunted by the sight, although it made his stomach rumble slightly from hunger. His mandibles clicked softly as he thought about the sweet taste of slimy worm flesh, but he banished the thought. He had a duty to fulfill, and there was no time to consider anything else. He had been trained well, and he would eat his fillter. There was more than enough food for all the servants of the Host. Under the leadership of the noble caste, the Host had greatly expanded its agricultural operations, so that the next grand spawning could be the biggest ever. The Host''s numbers were growing in leaps and bounds, as was their destiny. Soon.


    At this point, most of the workers that had been following the warrior walked off to seek their next task. Only their leader kept shadowing the warrior and following behind him. Together, they passed through several more caverns. Some of them were farms of various sizes that teams of workers were taking care of.


    Eventually, they entered an incrediblyrge cavern. The distant walls were veiled by darkness that seemed to stretch on forever, and the roof hung hundreds of feet overhead. Hundreds of towers made of some sort of dark resin-like material stretched from the floor to the ceiling, and simrly constructed walkways and bridges connected the buildings. All throughout the darkness little pinpricks of white light glowed softly, like stars in the night sky. A nearby light post revealed the source of the dull illumination. There was a small mana crystal sitting atop it.


    A steady chorus of whispering and tapping echoed through the cavern. The dim light glinted off countless ck carapaces, as workers and warriors scurried along the bridges and ramps that led in every direction. The darkness here flowed and roiled with the gathered creatures endless obscured movements.


    The warrior and the worker submerged themselves into the flow of their kind, as they headed to a ramp that twisted its way up one of thergest towers. They ascended the incline, and when they were halfway to the ceiling, they entered the tower through a gaping irregr entrance in the resin. It was quiet andpletely dark within the room, and after stepping inside both of them stood at attention and waited.


    From the imprable darkness, tworge creatures emerged. They were as tall as the warrior but with thicker builds. Their bellies were rounder and the armor at back of their heads was longer and covered with ridges, although they had the same general shape and ck carapace. With a series of clicks and raspy grunts they addressed the warrior and the worker. These were administrators, the highest servants of the nobility, and their words were not to be questioned.


    When they were done talking, the warrior responded. He told them all about what the scouts had discovered above ground and the feed they had brought back with them. Of particr importance was their observations of the humans, the ancient invaders. The nobility and the administrators wanted to map out the location of as many human settlements as possible. The resurgence wasing, and the Host would soon reim what had once been theirs. The exile had been long ago and they were no longer what they had once been, they were now the Host. Their weaknesses had been stripped from them during their retreat into the darkness below. The deep ces and its beasts had tried to devour them, but they had devoured them instead. The exiles had learned much and taken their enemys strength as their own. Under the divine guidance of the nobility, the casts had been formed, and the Host had been forged into a single will with a single purpose. Soon.

 To Forgotten Places 1

    To Forgotten ces 1


    It took a bit longer than cknail had hoped to track down all his hobgoblin minions. He had ordered them to show themselves off to the townsfolk and to sow chaos, and they had gone about it with great enthusiasm and inventiveness. Following the sound of screams, cknail had found one hobgoblin chasing a shrieking woman down the street. Judging by his slow pace and the grin that had been on his face, the hobgoblin hadnt been trying to catch her, but the chase had amused him greatly. Another hobgoblin had been chopping down someones front door with an axe, while the upants huddled inside. Apparently, the family had just finished baking a pie, and the smell had drawn the hobgoblin. cknail also found a pair of hobgoblins carrying a bunch of crates full of chickens back toward the gates, andstly, hed found Khita ransacking a jewelers shop with two hobgoblins she had convinced to help her. They had gathered up quite arge sack of loot before cknails arrival.


    While cknail had herded his followers back to the gate, Ilisti and his men had shattered the towns defenders. Like a force of nature, the vympr had cut down or crushed every man who had darede within reach of his long deadly de. Faced with such a juggernaut, the terrified defenders had broken ranks and run. Unopposed, Ilisiti had then moved on toplete the next part of n. He led his troops deeper into the city and burned the enemy stronghold to the ground. Deprived of a rallying point and their supplies, the remaining enemies would have a much harder time reorganizing or following cknails allies when they left.


    Despite cknails paranoia, the second mage never showed himself. He had either been killed before hed had a chance to cast any magic, or he was hiding somewhere far away from the fighting. Battlefields were messy ces, and in cknails experience battles rarely went as nned. He was just d chance had worked in his favor this one time. It was probably the first time ever. Still, cknail kept an eye out as he rejoined Ilisti and led everyone out of the city. You never knew when random people would try to kill you.


    Although Ilistis men had taken some time to loot after the fighting, most the takings had been plundered by the hobgoblins. cknail nned on making his minions share, though. In particr, there was a barrel of pickles and a sack of meat pies the humans would probably enjoy. There were also quite a few bags of coins and other shiny bits they could share. cknail was getting tired of having so much money, and coins were surprisingly heavy and hard to carry inrge amounts. Also, he never did anything with them anyway. Sure, they were nice and sparkly, but at this point he preferred more unique or useful items. The opportunity to spend money almost never came his way for some reason. It was weird.


    cknails favorite new acquisition was thus a purple hat. He loved it, and he was wearing it right now. The hat had a wide-brim and a white feather sticking out from the top. Stylish. It wasnt even loot, and it definitely wasnt stolen. cknail wasnt a thief. Rather, the hat had been a gift from an admirer. A man whose house cknail had wandered into had thrown it at him before running away. Obviously, hed wanted cknail to have it, probably because hed thought it would look much better on the hobgoblins head. Purple and green looked great together.


    Once back on the road and well away from the city walls, the victorious force stopped and took a moment to catch their breath and reorganize. As cknail chased a pair of hobgoblins away from the loot and yelled at them to go out and scout, Khita jogged over to him. She was hauling around a small sack of loot and there was a satisfied grin on her face.


    Thats the most the fun Ive ever had. What a sharp party! she shouted happily.


    It was alright, cknail replied as he reached up to adjust his new hat. He was keeping an eye on all the surrounding activity, in case something went wrong. It usually did, especially when Khita was around.


    The redheads grin grew wider. We need to do this again soon! Joining Herad and bing a bandit was the right choice after all. This is the life!


    cknail rolled his eyes. He had been under the impression that she had joined Herads band because all her old gang friends had been out to kill her and she had needed to flee her old home.


    Say, Ive been thinking, cknail, Khita said in an excited but quiet voice.


    Try to keep it simple so you dont get confused, cknail remarked helpfully.


    Ha, very funny. You should be a minstrel, Khita told him as she huffed in annoyance. What was I talking about? Right. This is what I want out of life. To be the baddest bitch around, like Herad was. Im sick of following others around. Im want to show the world how great I am! I want to conquer with sword and fire!


    Youre terrible with a sword, cknail replied.


    I am not, you green ass. Sure, Im not as good as Herad was, almost no one is, but Ill get better with practice.


    You also dont practice, cknail pointed out. He trained a lot more than her, almost every day. It helped him quiet his emotions and it reminded him what was important.


    Khita red at him but kept talking. Im not going to stay a nameless minion. Ill find a way to make a real name for myself. Life isnt worth living if you dont seize your dreams, and cut down every asshole who tries to stop you.


    Sure, sure. Go ahead, cknail answered with a nod of his head. Agreeing with her was usually the best way to shut her up.


    Khita scowled at him. She seemed to suspect that he wasnt really paying attention, but before she could say anything more cknail spoke up. We need to get moving, so I need to go do important leader things now. Come see me when Im done. We can talk as we walk.


    Without waiting for a response, cknail then hurried away. If Khita dide to see himter while they were marching, he could always pick up the pace until she was too tired to talk to him. It was one of the many strategies hed developed to shut her up.


    Soon, thebined force of hobgoblins and men were once again headed east toward Shelter. Ilisti was able to get his men moving at a quick pace, and this spurred the hobgoblins on. Much to cknails delight, Khita didnt manage to say more than a few words to him along the way. They travelled the rest of the day and then set up camp when it began to grow dark. In the wild, it was important to scout out a good site and secure it properly, lest you run into unpleasant surprises during the night, such as mimics or boars.


    After a few more days of travelling, they passed by Riverrun and entered territory that cknail was more familiar with. They avoided the town by crossing the river at a shallow point downstream, and then they hiked back over to the road. Their group was way too suspicious looking to enter the town. They wanted to avoid being sighted by anyone who would report back to Werrick.


    As they were walking down the road, an abandoned vige came into sight to their left. It wasnt the first one they had passed either. Thick bushes and slender trees surrounded its derelict buildings and covered what was left of its fields. The sight seemed to interest Ilisti. He stopped at the edge of the road and studied it for a moment, so cknail slowed down to wait for him.


    I had heard that the East was starting to fray at the seams, but I had not expected to see such obvious signs of ruin, Ilisti mused aloud. Out west, we usually think of thesends as richer than our own, although we dont like admitting it. Seeing it like this is odd.


    Elyias was walking behind cknail, but he stopped to reply. Ha, things did use to be blessedly good in these parts. The harvests were bountiful, and everyone had a smile on their face when I was young. That stopped after the wars started. Way down south, Teshura and Deveshur went at each other like cats in a sack over trading rights or something, and it didnt end there. The kings of Eloria and Hulgaron decided to join the fray - because crowns apparently turn mens minds to mush - and everything has been a bloody mess since. After the Doom of Coroulis, small viges like this one couldnt defend themselves against the bands of desertersing from the South or the beastsing down from the mountains.


    Ilisti nodded and began walking again. Yes, that makes sense. I suppose the rigid ways of my people are useful sometimes.


    The next day, they left civilization behind and headed off into the Deep Green, for no real roads led to Shelter. The only way there was a long trek along a narrow trail through the wild forests of the North. Even with a guide, it was a rough and dangerous journey. Thankfully, everyone in the group was used to hard marches through uneven terrain, although Ilisti had to leave his cart behind. The most important cargo was tied to the horses, and the rest was thrown away.


    Youd better not be leading us to our doom, Ilisti remarked jovially as they hiked through the forest. Despite the difficulty of their travel he had kept up a good mood.


    I get that a lot, cknail replied as he scratched his noise.


    That doesnt surprise me, although I hope it isnt always from new people.


    cknail threw the vympir a wicked grin. It usually is. I make friends easily.


    Ilistiughed and kept walking. Behind him, Garen looked ufortable, but that was normal for him.


    These woods are not so different from my familys oldnds, Ilisti remarked. You said that there are hidden viges still surviving out here? That sounds like a perfect ce for me to im. I will need a base of operations if I am to help you.


    cknail nodded. You cant have Shelter, thats mine, but we can find you another vige. Im sure there are some around that need saving. All the humans around here keep dying. They need smart and tough leaders like us to look after them.


    Another day passed, and they began to grow closer to their destination. With the hobgoblins scouting out ahead, they climbed rocky hills and skirted dark bogs that were full of buzzing insects. As if sensing their strength, the creatures of the forest avoided the travelers and kept their distance. That made cknail nervous. He had a feeling that something bad was going happen. Ilisti had in a troll, one of the fiercest beasts of the North, but no matter how dangerous you were there was always something nastier in the Deep Green. On the third day, cknails suspicions were proven right. Midstride, he froze as the hunting cry of a drake echoed through the trees. His spine shivered in response to the sound and all his hair stood up straight. The humans noticed his reaction and stopped as well.


    What is it? Elyias asked nervously.


    A drake, cknail exined as he nced about. The trees were old and had grown tall in this part of the forest. This made it hard to see far, because although there wasnt much growth near the ground, the thick canopy overhead made the forest dim and shadowy.


    Elyias shuddered. What do we do?


    That was a good question. cknail wished he knew the answer. Saeters only real advice about drakes was to avoid them, which wasnt very helpful. The massive predators were rare and tended not to bother hunting small prey such as humans or hobgoblins, but if they did decide they wanted to taste you there was basically nothing you could do about it. They could outrun people with ease and were strong enough to topple trees.


    cknail carefully listened to the now muted sound of the forest. I dont think its nearby. We should keep moving.


    Ilisti nodded and began walking again at a slightly faster pace. He was no stranger to the ways of the Deep Green. Yes, that seems like the wisest course. Loitering around here would be foolhardy."


    Thankfully, there were no more drake screams or any other sign of the fearsome beast. The next day, just before the sun reached the apex of the sky, cknail and hispanions reached Shelter. Gathering at the edge of the woods, they looked out at the walled vige across the fields.


    So thats Shelter, eh? Its not a bad size for a town, Ilisti observed. There was a hungry gleam in his eyes that cknail didnt like.


    You stay here. Having a whole bunch of new people show up might startle them and your red eyes stand out, cknail replied as he began walking across the fields. Ill go see what has happened in my absence.


    Khita followed him. Iming with.


    Dont forget to inquire as to the location of any other nearby towns that might still be alive, Garen called after them.


    Tired from the long journey but excited to be back, cknail approached the town gate. Once there, he called out to get the guards attention. The viger on duty let them in after a brief moment of hesitation. He was surprised to see the hobgoblin after such a long absence and a little nervous, but he opened the gate for Khita and him.


    cknail immediately headed for Tannins house. The vige elder would be able to answer all his questions. After a knock on the door, it opened to reveal the bearded middle-aged man. There was frustrated scowl on his face at first, but a surprised smile appeared when he recognized his guests.


    Huh, youre back, eh? I was wondering where youd wandered off to.


    Before cknail could reply, Khita spoke up. We just went for a hike.


    Tannin gave her an amused look. That was a long hike. You were gone for weeks.


    We also went South to do some shopping, because we got bored.


    Oh, did you get anything interesting? Other than that gaudy misfortune of a hat, Tannin asked as he eyed the purple hat that was still perched on cknails head.


    Yes, but the hat was the best part, cknail replied sincerely.


    The hobgoblin quickly gave the town leader apletely fabricated ount of where they had been. After finding out that everything had been quiet around Shelter, cknail subtly steered the conversation to a new topic so he could ask Tannin same questions.


    Say, there arent any more viges still around in this area, are there? That are full of living people and not corpses or wolves or worse, he enquired.


    Thats a bit of a weird request. Whats with the sudden interest?


    I was just thinking of doing some exploring.


    Well, there used to be a few nearby settlements, back in the day. However, I know the people in most of them packed up and moved south to live in therger cities where they thought it would safer, and we lost contact with the rest of all our old neighbors years ago. I dont imagine any of them are left. Its takes real grit to survive out in the Green like we do, Tannin replied with more than a little pride.


    You survived, so maybe some of them did too. Which vige do you think has the best chance of still being around?


    Tannins eyes narrowed thoughtfully as he pulled gently on his beard. Probably Herstcrest. It was thergest, other than us, but they were always a bit stuck up and unfriendly. If they have somehow survived I wouldnt suggest going there. Istion will have probably made them jumpy and paranoid, and youre you. They probably want nothing to do with a hobgoblin.


    Which way was Herstcrest? I cant avoid it if I dont know where it is, cknail asked.


    This earned him a skeptical look from Tannin, but he gave the hobgoblin directions anyway. Herstcresty about a days travel to the west. There had used to be a small dirt road, but it had been overgrown by the forest years ago. After listening, cknail thanked Tannin and departed.


    As they were leaving, Khita turned to cknail. Im going to stick around here. I got some stuff to do in Shelter, and one of us should stop in and talk to Geralhd and the others.


    Alright, cknail replied without stopping. He was hardly going argue with her.


    I need talk to some people and get some things organized, so I can do what we talked about earlier, Khita yelled at his back.


    cknail had no idea what she was talking about so he just waved and then walked away. He needed to meet back up with Ilisti, and head over to the hobgoblin settlement. Biting his lip, cknail felt a nervous twinge. He had been away from most of his goblin minions for too long. Without his leadership, they were probably causing all sorts of damage, and he had to make sure no one was conspiring against him. That happened a lot with hobgoblins. Gob was good at weeding most of them out but he wasnt perfect. After he was sure everything was alright at the goblin settlement, and hed had some time to rest, he needed to go looking for Ilistis vige. Hopefully, this Herstcrest ce was still around, and not full of terrible monsters. That would be a nice change.

 To Forgotten Places 2

    To Forgotten ces 2


    Although some of Ilistis men wanted to visit Shelter, cknail convinced them that wasnt a good idea. Instead, he guided them back into the forest and toward his goblin settlement. The hobgoblin chieftain and the vympirs made ns as they walked. There were some grumbles from the men - they were tired from walking - but they obeyed their leaders without question.


    And you think this town of Herstcrest is our favored bet? Ilisiti asked.


    Sounds like it. Its not too far away, and it was big and rich, cknail replied. The people should still be there, but if it is gone we can just look somewhere else.


    Very well. My men could use a day or two of rest, but after that Id like to get moving as soon as possible. There is no point in lying around.


    Alright. You can camp outside my base. This is my territory. We have lots of food for you and it will be safe. Or at least cknail hoped that was the case. All the stupidzy goblins ate way too much, and they might have emptied the food stores while he was gone. Useless things.


    The walk to their destination took a few hours, but regr use had beaten down the dirt and created a fairly smooth path between Shelter and the goblin settlement. That made the going a little easier, although they still had to climb a few hills and cross some streams. When they reached the top of the hill that overlooked the settlement, there was near silence as the men and hobgoblins took a moment to take in the sight below them. The only sound was the wind blowing through the nearby trees and rustling their leaves


    It was Garen that eventually spoke up first. I dont know what I was expecting, but I must admit, in my head, your base was much smaller than this. I did not think that hobgoblins could build things such as this. He sounded slightly worried.


    There were grunts and mumbles of agreement from the other men, and cknail as well. The hobgoblin chieftain was more than a little surprised by what he saw. His base had expanded and grown during his absence. The forest around it had been chopped down and pushed back another hundred feet, and the area inside the wall was now stuffed full of buildings, except for where the rocky hills jutted out of the ground and where the training ground was. Most of the structures were made of y bricks, although there were still some that had been rigged together using wooden poles and stitched animal hides. There was very little organization to the cement of the buildings. They looked to have been built wherever there was an open patch of level ground, and what must have been hundreds of small green figures could be seen moving around inside and outside the walls.


    Sighing, cknail stared at the mess. That was a lot of mouths to feed, although it looked like Gob had worked and nted crops in most of the cleared ground outside the walls. cknail hoped that the harvest would be enough to feed everyone through the winter. It wouldnt be surprising if there were a thousand goblins living in the settlement. You could really cram a lot of goblins into a small space if you had to, but that was still a lot. Well, at least it hadnt all burned down. cknail had been a little worried about Imp and Ferrars dangerous activities, and all the other goblins and hobgoblins probably werent much better. All of them would probably enjoy burning down a few buildings just to see what happened. They didnt have his wisdom and self-control.


    As cknail watched with interest, he noticed a group of about a dozen goblins burst out of the forest below and head toward the gate, which was guarded by three hobgoblins. The goblins seemed to be yelling something that got the guards'' attention, because one of the hobgoblins ran inside, while the other two looked up at cknails position. It seemed like their arrival had been noticed. Hopefully, that was a good thing.


    cknail began to climb down the hill, and his hobgoblin minions followed him. You humans stay here. Im going to go down and exin who you are, so that no one tries to throw rocks at you, but keep your helmets on just in case.


    By the time he got near the gate, all the goblins had fled out of sight. At first, the two remaining hobgoblin guards drew their weapons and eyed him suspiciously, but then they recognized him and visibly rxed.


    What, you dont know your own leader? cknail asked them crossly. Why are you raising your weapons at me? Do you think there are lots of other enemy hobgoblins wandering around out here?


    One of the guards looked sheepish as he sheathed his de. Were sorry for not recognizing your handsome and wonderful face sooner, boss. Were at war, though, so were a bit jumpy.


    cknail frowned in confusion. Youre at war? What was that supposed to mean?


    There have been some strange goblins and hobgoblins about. They attacked some of the tribes goblins while they were out hunting, so Gob ordered everyone to keep a watch out for them.


    Before cknail could ask any rifying questions, Gob arrived with a small mob of hobgoblins in tow. He grinned in excitement when he saw cknail, and immediately bowed. This sudden movement surprised the hobgoblins running behind him, and they almost ran right into him, and had to jump back. As other hobgoblins copied Gob and bowed, their formation dissolved into confusion. cknail sighed and motioned for Gob to step forward and speak, which the hobgoblin quickly did.


    Supreme one! Your return fills me with overflowing joy! I stand ready to fulfill yourmands, Gob said as he gave cknail a sloppy salute.


    Thank you, this ce is still standing, so I suppose youve done a good job in my absence, cknail replied. Now what is this about a war?


    Gob scratched the side of his head and looked embarrassed. I had hoped to destroy these pests before your return, so I could present their skulls to you as a trophy. Im sorry for failing in this, wise leader.


    cknail rolled his eyes. Fine, but who are you talking about?


    Some of the goblins started toe back from foraging with injuries they said were from fighting other goblins. I told them to hunt inrger groups so they could drive these invaders away, but the enemy responded in kind. Now there are big fights between dozens of goblins all the time, and there are reports of hobgoblins among the enemy.


    From goblins? Only a few goblins have seen anything? cknail asked Gob skeptically. This was all sounding very vague to him, and not something a true leader would be worried about.


    I sent out hobgoblins to be sure. They found some tracks, but they had toe back before they found anything else. The cowardly enemy is hiding very far away, at the edge of your territory, boss.


    How far away? cknail asked.


    Gob shrugged. About half a day of walking.


    cknail sighed again. He hadnt even known his territory was thatrge. In fact, it sounded like some of cknails ever growing horde of useless minions had entered the territory of another hobgoblin. His goblins were the invaders!


    Lets not worry about that right now. We have more important things to do. I brought a bunch of humans with me, cknail said. As far as he could tell this war existed almostpletely in his minions heads. They were being paranoid, and causing him grief.


    Yes, the sentries said they saw a lot of tough-looking humans approaching, and here you are leading them, Gob observed proudly. Are they your prisoners?


    cknail grunted. Gob sure was confident in his leader. They are some new allies I hope to use against our human enemies.


    So, you tricked them into fighting for you. I see. You are the cleverest of all hobgoblins. None are your equal, Gob replied with wide eyes full of adoration.


    Thats not not true, cknail replied thoughtfully.


    Just then, Herah pushed her way through the hobgoblins behind Gob and lunged at cknail with wide open arms. cknail raised a hand and held her back before she could hug him.


    Youre back, boss! she yelled in excitement as she struggled to get closer to him. There was a wide excited grin on her face, and she was practically drooling.


    Keeping his arm stiff, cknail studied the female hobgoblin. She hadnt changed much since hed seen herst. She was still incredibly annoying, although he had to admit she wasnt unattractive, even if the drool didnt help. He probably wouldnt have minded her attention if the idea of letting another hobgoblin get so close wasnt so off-putting. All hobgoblins were dangerous, and cknail knew that if he fooled around with Herah then he would never be rid of her. She would cling to him and never let go. Besides, he was a very busy leader, with little free time. He was always doing important things, like napping.


    Calm down, cknail said he shoved her back. He then took a step sideways so that Gob was between them.


    Gob didnt appreciate being used as a shield, but he just frowned resignedly before addressing his master again. Do you need anything from me, boss? I live to serve you.


    cknail nodded. Our guests will need food, and I dont want anyone bothering them. Take care of it.


    As youmand, greenest. I also have a message from Imp and the human mage for you. They wanted you to visit when you got back.


    Alright, cknail replied as he began to walk to the mages hut. Had Gob just called him greenest?


    cknail wanted to get off his feet, but it was undoubtedly a good idea to check on the mages as soon as possible. Who knew what they were getting up to? Probably nothing good.


    Do you have more questions for me? Gob asked as he moved up alongside his chieftain.


    Looking around at all the buildings, cknail took a moment to think before answering. There was one thing that was bothering him. How many hobgoblins are in my tribe now?


    Gob smiled proudly. A hundred and three.


    cknail stared at the other hobgoblin. He didnt understand. What was he supposed to do with a hundred hobgoblins? How was this settlement still standing? Why wasnt Shelter a burnt-out wreck? How was he going to feed them all? He could feel a headacheing on.


    How are you keeping them all in line? he asked Gob in disbelief.


    I use the wise ways you taught me. The sword training weeds out the untrainable hobgoblins and teaches them to obey, and I task the most useful with keeping the others in line. They are my direct subordinates, and not part of a home.


    cknail blinked. Part of a home?


    Gob nodded and pointed at several nearby buildings. Every home in the camp is run by a hobgoblin, who is in charge of everyone who lives there. They are like small tribes in therger tribe. Sometimes hobgoblins fight for control of a home, but we stay out of it unless it affects whole tribe. This keeps most of the other hobgoblins busy while I lead tribe for you.


    Much to cknails surprise, that sounded like it might actually work. Weird. And all the home leaders listen to you?


    I kill them if they dont, and someone else takes over their home. You have many loyal followers, but the homeheads dont get along with each other, so they have no allies. The only reason they dont fight is because we dont let them.


    Huh, its great that I thought of all that.


    Yes, boss. Youre the wisest and strongest of leaders, Gob agreed. His eyes glowed withplete sincerity, which cknail found a little unnerving.


    Suddenly, there was a loud squealing noise from just out sight. It sounded like it had been made by some sort ofrge animal.


    Whats that? cknail asked as he turned to look for the source. Dangerous animals shouldnt have been able to get into the base undetected. That was why they had a wall and guards.


    Those are your pigs, Gob replied. Weve been taking care of them, as you ordered.


    cknail frowned. It took him a moment to remember what Gob was talking about. Those beasts were still around? He hadpletely forgotten about them.


    No one ate the piglets? he asked in surprise.


    Gob scolwed fiercely. Who would dare do such a thing? Youmanded us to take care of them forever!


    True, cknail admitted, but hed only said that to annoy Khita. She hated the animals.


    Well, lets go see them, cknail said as he headed in the direction the squealing hade from. The piglets were probably big enough to eat now, and he was hungry.


    As soon as they circled around one of the nearby brick houses, a different kind of structure came into sight. It was a small shack made of wood and bark, and there was a crude post fence around it. The inside of the fence was full of mud and several pigs. cknail blinked in surprise when he saw the animals. They were huge. None of them were the size of the giant boar cknail had fought, but some of them were looked like they weighed more than a hobgoblin already. As he studied them, one of the beasts looked back. It regarded him beady ck eyes set above a twitching pink snout. Its thick fur was dark brown, and two long yellow tusks jutted out of its mouth.


    They must eat a lot, cknail observed. He knew hed been saying that a lot, but it was important. Somebody had to make sure there was enough food to go around, and for the asional feast.


    Gunkit lets them roam around outside the walls, Gob exined. The pigs tear up the ground and eat their fill there, which helps with the nting. They also eat the bushes. They are very thorough.


    cknail was about to ask who Gunkit was, when a hobgoblin appeared at the edge of fence. cknail had failed to notice him before because he was covered in mud from the tip of his head to his toes. The hobgoblin  presumably Gunkit  saluted, and cknail leaned sideways as mud was thrown into the air and almost hit him.


    So, youre in charge here? cknail asked the hobgoblin. He had a weird hunched-over posture that made him seem much shorter than most hobgoblins.


    Gunkit smiled and grunted proudly. I tamed them, boss! They are good beasts. I fed and yed with them every day. Together, we roll around in the mud and dig up roots out of the ground for eating.


    Gunkit lives here with them, Gob added.


    cknail scratched his head. It sort of seemed like the beasts had tamed Gunkit, instead of the other way around. With his mud sttered body and hunched-over posture he was almost more of a boar than a hobgoblin. Two of the pigs made an almost affectionate noise as they ran over to the fence and stared at cknail.


    They remember you, Gunkit eximed happily.


    cknail walked over to the fence and gave both the pigs a quick pat on the head. They were soft to the touch, and their snouts tickled him as they sniffed his hand, before he withdrew.


    Well, keep up the good work, cknail told Gunkit before turning to leave with Gob. It didnt seem like he would be eating roasted pig anytime soon.


    Hes a little weird, isnt he? cknail remarked to Gob as they resumed walking over to Imps hut.


    Gob shrugged. He is a hobgoblin who is both useful and loyal, boss.


    True, that is very weird, cknail agreed. He couldnt reallyin about his minions being odd.


    It didnt take them very long to cross the vige and arrive at their destination. Imps shack had changed a lot. In fact, it was obviously apletely new shack, since it wasrger and all the wood had been reced by mud bricks. Gob shouted to signal their arrival and Imp almost immediately appeared in the door.


    Oh, youre back. Good, good, the hobgoblin mage eximed happily as he squinted at Backnail. I have a lot to tell you, I do.


    I see youve improved your hut, cknail observed after he told Gob to leave and take care of the tasks he had given him.


    Imp smiled and waved him inside. Ah, yes. Brick is good. Less likely to burn down. Although, you could still melt it with green fire


    cknail hesitated in the doorway, but then stepped inside. The interior of the building was bright. It had tworge windows that let in sunlight, two active mage lights, and a small fire burning in a bowl on a table. The walls were lined with shelves that held all of Imps magical equipment, and there was arge table in the center of the room. cknail was pleased to see Avorlus standing near a shelf. He hadnt been sure if the bearded human mage was going to be here.


    Its about time you got back, Avorlus grumbled. I dont appreciate being left here so long. I may have learned some interesting things, but this ce is a heap. Walking back here from the vige is tiring, and I cant risk doing any real work somewhere those ignorant peasants might stumble upon it.


    Before cknail could reply he spotted another person sitting at the table behind Avorlus. Surprisingly, it was a human woman. She scowled angrily at cknail as he nced her way, and he recognized her. It was the mage he had captured during the fight with the raiders.!


    What is she doing here? he asked Avorlus.


    Where else would she go? the mage replied with a shrug. She knows she cant escape from a hobgoblin encampment out in the Deep Green, so she is trying to extend her life as much as possible by being as helpful as she can.


    She is useless. We have much better mages than her, cknail remarked coldly. She was a just abat mage. They were soldiers, and they knew far less about magic than Imp or Avorlus.


    Be that as it may, she can still contribute. Im too old to be cutting myself and drawing blood from my veins, and having another pair of human hands around doesnt hurt.


    Use a goblin.


    I remain unconvinced that goblin blood and that of humans are perfect substitutes. There might be minute differences in theirposition that could taint my careful form.


    cknail sighed. He had mostly understood what Avorlus had just said. Fine, whatever. I see you gave her clothes back.


    There was wordless growl of rage from the woman, and Avorlusughed. Yes, having her around in the nude would have been quite the distraction.


    Is she what you wanted to show me?


    Avorlus grinned and pulled several vials of dark liquid out of his coat pocket. Ah, no. She is of little import. I wanted you to know that I havepleted my part of the bargain, and taught Imp here how to make your Elixir. These are the first fruits of hisbor, and we also have some other concoctions to show you.

 To Forgotten Places 3

    To Forgotten ces 3


    cknail leaned forward and studied the vials of Elixir that Avorlus was holding. Imp made those?


    Yes, I supervised the work, but his hands are indeed the ones that crafted them, Avorlus answered.


    And I wont die if I drink them? The Elixir looked the same as the stuff cknail usually drank, but that didnt mean much.


    Youll be fine. These arepletely indistinguishable from what youve used before.


    With a reluctant sigh, cknail reached out and took the vials. He was going to have to trust Imp eventually if he wanted to keep getting Elixir. As cknail was tucking the vials into one of his pockets, the mage coughed to clear his throat.


    Id just like to remind you that you dont necessarily need to drink all the Elixir yourself, Avorlus pointed out. You could give it to another hobgoblin in order to empower a new Vessel.


    That hadnt urred to cknail. Dont most people who take Elixir die?


    Usually that is the case. It is a necessary sacrifice. Although, its hard to tell if the same rules would apply for this particr recipe  sense it hasnt been tested at all - and for hobgoblins as a species, Avorlus exined as he grinned hungrily. I have no real experience dealing with the empowerment of inhuman beings. Thats why I would like to run some experiments, to rify things. Understanding this will undoubtedly prove important to your future ns.


    cknail eyed the bearded mage. That sounded like a terrible idea. He really didnt want more hobgoblin Vessels running around. They would be a threat. The only hobgoblin he would even consider giving Elixir to was Gob. Being a Vessel would probably help Gob keep the others in line, but it wasnt worth the risk of losing him.


    No, my trustworthy minions are too valuable to lose, he told the mage.


    Avorlus nodded. He seemed to understand the unsaid implications. What if we kept our experiments to goblins?


    Feeling conflicted, cknail frowned. Fine, I guess.


    Good. Thank you. Nothing of value was ever produced without equal sacrifice. Im also working on some other projects that I will share with you soon, Avorlus replied.


    cknail turned to Imp. Do you have any new magics?


    Imp looked thoughtful and then wandered over to pick up a staff that was leaning against the wall. Ive discovered a few new types of explosions, but mostly Avorlus has been helping me clean up my magic and use my new staff. I can use it to shoot fire now, like the human mages do.


    Very nice, but what do you mean clean up your magic? cknail remarked in confusion.


    Avorlus coughed and interjected himself into the conversation. Imps process was effective in so far as it could produce mana crystals, but it created too many ws and needed refining. y pots are not a good container to grow crystals in. They contaminate their contents. When doing any sort of mana engineering clean tools made from ss or metal are far safer to work with.


    We need more ss, though, Imp added. I only have a few pieces I took from Mahedium.


    Avorlus eyes narrowed angrily at the mention of the other mages name. Yes, we need much better working conditions than this. ess to ssblowers and craftsmen not avable here or Shelter is paramount.


    Ill see what I can do, cknail told them.


    The hobgoblin chieftain then turned to the woman who was still sitting at the table in the far corner of the room. She had been trying to look inconspicuous but hadnt been able to conceal the hateful nces she kept sneaking at him. Her posture went stiff as cknail walked over to her side.


    And what is it that you want? cknail asked as he leered down at her.


    The womans behavior amused him. Her intense fear was matched only by her hate, cknail could smell the power of her emotions, but she kept both under control and had managed to survive this long after being made a prisoner. The captive mage turned to look at cknail. She was a tall woman with a stern looking face and short messy blonde hair. Being a captive hadnt allowed her to do much in the way of hair care.


    I simply want to survive, the woman replied as neutrally as possible.


    That would make you unique among humans, I think. You creatures always want more than that. You cant help yourselves.


    Were the creatures? she hissed indignantly.


    cknail chuckled. Arent we all creatures? Also, that was a stupid thing for someone who just wants to survive to say.


    The woman grimaced and bit her tongue to hold back another angry retort before replying. Youre right. Im sorry.


    Youre sorry? Stop lying and tell me what you want. If you could ask me for anything, what would it be?


    Id like to be escorted safely back to humannds, she quickly replied.


    Do you think you deserve such a reward? You came here to kill, and you lost a fair battle. You also have all my mages'' secrets and our location in your head. I know you have been watching and learning. That wasnt very smart for a survivor, cknail replied smugly.


    Why are you tormenting me? she growled.


    cknail grinned back. I like to get to know my prey, to get in their heads and taste their insides.


    The woman held his gaze, so the hobgoblin just nodded and walked away. He was done with her for now, and she wasnt going anywhere. He could enjoy herpanyter. Imp and Avorlus had nothing more to say to him either, but almost as soon as he had walked outside, another hobgoblin appeared. It was Ferrar.


    What do you want? cknail asked as the hobgoblin hurried over.


    More fire, Ferrar immediately replied. Nice hat by the way, boss.


    cknail grinned. Thanks. No one else had said anything about his nice new purple hat. He had been wearing it all day, and he was d someone had finally noticed how dashing it looked on his head.


    I dont think I can give you more fire, cknail remarked. Ferrar already had a lot. Way more than was probably useful, or even remotely safe.


    I can make my own fire, Ferrar rified. I just need iron. There is lots around, but I dont know how to use it. I talked to the people in Shelter, but the advice they gave me was bad. Youre supposed to be able to melt the rocks in a furnace, but what they told me was too vague. Ive already lost two helpers.


    Ill keep an eye out for you, cknail replied. He was feeling generous since Ferrar hadplimented his hat.


    I want to go on your expedition.


    Why?


    You''re looking for humans and so am I.


    That makes sense, cknail replied as he dismissed Ferar and began to walk over to his cave. He was tired and wanted to nap now.


    Hed had a long day, and was looking forward to getting off his feet. He suspected that the longer he stayed awake the more problems and requests his minions would dump on him, and ck didnt want to deal with that. He was the leader. His minions were supposed to do stuff for him, not the other way around. Circling around to avoid anyone looking for him, cknail reached his cave. He pushed the deer hide that was hanging over the door aside, and then entered. Almost as soon as hed curled up under his nkets, he fell asleep.


    When he awoke and stepped outside, it was early the next morning. The glowing red sun was just peeking up over the forested hills in the distance. There were also several goblins and hobgoblins outside, waiting for him. They were leaning or sitting on rocks, and they immediately jumped to attention as soon as they noticed their chieftain. Herah was among them.


    What are you doing here? Its not to ask me for things, is it? cknail told them sourly. Hed just woken up and was in no mood to help people out. They could solve their own problems.


    A hobgoblin cknail had never seen before quickly hurried over. No, highest of hobs. Im here to give you a wonderful gift!


    Really? cknail asked skeptically. That didnt seem likely.


    Yes, I have toe to offer my chieftain, thats you, tribute.


    Oh, right. That was a thing goblins did. It had been a while since any of his minions had done this, since he had been travelling so much, but goblins needed to suck up to their boss and gain special treatment from him  or just avoid being killed randomly - somehow.


    As cknail watched, the hobgoblin in front of him raised a y bowl. cknail took it and looked it over. It was quite well made, and an impressive piece of work for a hobgoblin. Perfectly round, the bowl had a smooth exterior decorated by crudely drawn stick figures. The figure with the crown who was hitting everyone else with a stick was probably supposed to be him. Although it was crudepared to a lot of his loot, cknail found himself liking the bowl, especially since he didnt have many bowls right now. It was almost like someone had snuck into his cave while he had been gone and studied everything he owned so they knew what to get him.


    I like it. Your bribe is epted, cknail told him. The hobgoblin then stepped aside and the next imant hurried over.


    I bring you the finest hide in the camp! the hobgoblin announced as he presented the item. cknail nodded and took it. You could never have enough nkets.


    When it was Herahs turn, she shuffled over nervously and held up a white silk shirt. It had long sleeves and fancyce around the cor and the end of the sleeves. The shirt was remarkably clean for something that had probably been handled by hobgoblins for days or weeks, and it was nicer looking than anything cknail owned. Instantly, a picture of what he would like with the shirt on appeared in cknails head. It would go nice with his purple hat, but he was going to need shinier pants.


    Where did you get this? cknail inquired. He hadnt seen anything like it around.


    Another hobgoblin had it. He got it after the battle, but he didnt wear it because it was damaged. After I hit him a few times he gave it to me. Khita showed me how to clean and repair it, so I made a bunch of goblins do that for me.


    That makes sense, cknail admitted.


    Do you ept my gift? Herah asked in pleading tone. Her eyes shone with hope as she looked up at cknail.


    Yes, I do, cknail answered as he carefully reached over to take the shirt.


    Yeah! Herah shouted as she bounced happily. Do I get a hug now?


    No hugs, cknail replied firmly.


    Ill bring you more fancy clothes, Herah offered.


    cknail scowled. Fine, one small hug.


    Immediately, Herah lunged forward and wrapped her arms around cknail. He grit his teeth as she squeezed him tight. Although, she had a t chestpared to human, cknail clearly felt her breasts press against him. It was ufortable in an awkwardly exciting way. Several seconds passed, and Herah gave no sign of ever letting go, so cknail squirmed to escape, and once he was loose he pushed her back.


    The hug is over, he told her after taking a deep breath.


    Herah didnt seem disappointed. Yeah! Khitas advice worked. I wanted to bring you skulls, but she said that would be a bad idea, so I brought you clothes instead.


    cknail frowned. It sounded suspiciously like Herah and Khita were still conspiring against him, in their own stupid way. Normally, he strongly discouraged such behavior, but they were probably harmless, except to themselves, and he was getting gifts out of it, so he would continue to ignore them.


    With Herah out of the way, the next few supplicants approached. They were mostly hobgoblins, although there were a few older and smarter goblins among them. His minions gave cknail a varied pile of gifts. The highlights included some spiced jerky that tasted much better than anything else cooked by a hobgoblin that cknail had ever had, and some stone arrow heads. They were inferior to human made ones, but the tribe was running low on metal arrowheads, so cknail was d someone was making stone ones for hunting. Among the supplicants was another female hobgoblin. She eyed cknail, but didnt do anything out of the ordinary. Still, her sex caught cknails attention. Why were almost all hobgoblins male? He had no idea.


    When everyone was done offering up their tribute to their grand and majestic leader, cknail made a brief speech about what he wanted from his minions in the future.


    More cheese and better cooking, cknail exined. Dont steal it from Shelter, but any hobgoblin that brings me lots of cheese will be my new favorite. Its a shame we cant make it ourselves.


    When he was done speaking, cknail dismissed everyone. A small group of hobgoblins were talking animatedly amongst themselves about some sort of hunt as they left. cknail watched them go and then began to n out the rest of his day. It would probably be a good idea to have a meeting between all his allies and minions. There were a lot of things that needed nned out, and if he held a meeting, other people would probably do all that work for him. To get things rolling, cknail went to find Gob. He had the other hobgoblin send out messengers to both Ilisti and Shelter. While he waited for everyone to gather, cknail went to the training grounds. It had been too long since hed sparred with other hobgoblins. Undoubtedly, there were some new minions that needed his training and could use his help to achieve self-discipline and their full potential. Also, beating up other hobgoblins never failed to make him feel better about himself.


    A few hours passed by fairly quickly as cknail exerted himself, and soon it was time for the meeting he had set up. He had chosen to have it during lunch, because he found both humans and hobgoblins to be more agreeable when they had a stomach full of someone elses food.


    Throwing on his best cloak and new shirt, cknail met up with Gob and headed to the meeting ce, a campsite just outside of the settlement. Along the way, Ferrar and Imp joined them. A fire was already burning when they arrived, and goblins were piling up firewood beside it, as a pair of hobgoblins were finishing the setup of arge hide tarp, for shade. Dozens of chairs littered the ground around the fire, although they were all mismatched Most of them were just carved stumps, although a few were obviously items from Shelter that had somehow been misced.


    As goblins went to fetch the food and drink, cknail took the best chair for himself and sat down to wait for the other to arrive. Unsurprisingly, Ilisiti was the first to show up, since he had such a short distance to travel. He arrived with Garen and several other armsmen, although they werent armed, except for side-swords. The vympir greeted cknail and then sat down. Both Garen and him looked eager to get going. It took a few minutes for the people from Shelter to arrive, but when they did there were more of them than cknail had been expecting. Not only were Khita and Avorlus there, but Geralhd and Beardy as well, and they had brought along almost all the survivors of Herads band. cknail looked behind Khita, and saw several people from Shelter. What were they doing here? He hadnt really wanted the people of Shelter to know about Ilisti and his men, but they seemed to already be informed about he westerners, since none of them looked surprised to see them.


    Once everyone had taken a seat, cknail had some of his minions distribute lunch. This would buy him some time to study the attendees. Spit-roasted venison was served with squirrel and mixed root stew, that cknail was pretty sure wouldnt poison anyone to badly. A lot of the humans reacted differently to being served food by polite hobgoblins. Some stared at it suspiciously, but then began eating alongside everyone else. Others chuckled orughed, and some seemedpletely indifferent. However, before long everyone began to rx. cknail smirked as he watched. Humans were y in his hands. Ready to be molded into bowls or something. Whatever.


    Geralhd was one of the first people to finish, and he quickly scooted over to cknails side. What is going here? Why have you brought these people here? I thought we were hiding.


    cknail sighed and turned to face him. It just sort of happened. They are really nice once you get to know them.


    Geralhd looked skeptical, so cknail went into greater detail. He exined to Geralhd that Ilisti was a useful ally against Werrick, and that he just wanted a ce to hide out, where he could help people in need. As they spoke, other people finished eating.


    Why did Khita bring those people from Shelter? cknail asked.


    It was Geralhds turn to sigh in exasperation. Khita has some idea in her foolish head about building her own crew. Shes managed to convince a few of the old band and some of the younger vigers that you have some sort of scheme to rule the world, and that they should get in on it by joining her.


    cknail turned to look at the redhead in question. She was talking to Avorlus about something and she was obviously excited, almost maniacal. The bearded mage reached into his coat and pulled out a vial.


    Yes, I actually have that Elixir on me, since I was going to show it to cknail. I was using it to test out some of the equipment I am forced to use here, Avorlus told her. Its not a particr stable mixture, though.


    Reacting quickly, Khita grabbed the vial from him and jumped back. People looked over in concern as she jumped up on log bench, and cknail groaned. Before he could get up and confront the stupid thief, she downed the contents of the vial. Then, with a dumb grin on her face, Khitaughed loudly at everyone around her.


    Other people may be afraid of death, but not me! Khita told a surprised crowd. Herads Elixir wont kill me. It will just make me stronger than ever before. I will inherit her will, and Id rather be dead than stay the way I am anyway. Im going to be great! I will take what I want from this world or I will die spectacrly!


    The redhead grinned madly at everyone for a few seconds, and then copsed. Her head hit the bench with a loud crack as she fell to the ground. cknail frowned as he stared at her unmoving body. She was sprawled out on the dirt, and she didnt appear to be breathing. Well, at least no one would be able to me him for her death now.

 To Forgotten Places 4

    To Forgotten ces 4


    There was a moment of hushed silence as everyone stared in disbelief at Khitas unconscious form. It was as if no one could quite believe it was possible for anyone to be so dumb. As a student of human behavior, cknail knew better. He had been around humans  and Khita in particr - too long to ever be surprised by any new height of stupidity they achieved.


    Is she dead? Garen asked from where he was sitting next to Ilisti. He sounded almost hopeful that she would be.


    Instead of replying, Avorlus sighed and walked over to Khitas prone form. Moving stiffly, he crouched down and studied her for a second. He then pulled another vial out of a pocket and held it under her nose. Immediately, Khita spasmed and let out a wheezing cough. When he withdrew the vial, she settled down again without opening her eyes.


    Seeing this, Avorlus nodded to himself and stood up. The youngdy is still alive, despite her seemingpleteck of a survival instinct. However, she will be unconscious for a while and might die over the next few days as the Elixir works its way into her body. If she wakes up and is lucid then she will probably be fine.


    Looking distressed, Geralhd joined the mage. What are her odds, and is there anything we can do to help?


    I will do what I can. Keeping her hydrated and warm will help, but at this point she has already ingested the Elixir. Ultimately, her survival is out of my hands. Either her body will ept the power, or it will consume her from within.


    As everyone began talking to themselves or went back to eating, a bandit produced a nket from somewhere and helped Geralhd wrap Khita in it. She was then carried over to a spot near the fire. Several of the people who hade to the meeting with the redhead went over to her side to check on her, but most of them looked embarrassed about being seen near her after her dramatic stunt. The exception was a blonde young man from Shelter that cknail recognized. He had a concerned and fretful look on his face as he stared down at Khita. He seemed barely aware of the other people present unless they bumped into him. Was his name Hassiol? Hed been one of the hostages they had taken to get into Shelter the first time.


    Seeing that everyone was distracted, cknail scooted over to where Ilisti was sitting and leaned over to whisper in his ear.


    See those people from Shelter over there? I think they might like to know about our friendly scouting mission to see if Herstcrest is still around and to help them if they need it, cknail told the vympir. He ended his speech with a meaningful wink, in case the vympir didnt get it.


    An amused looked appeared on Ilistis face and he nodded in agreement. Ah, I can see why you might be concerned. Rest assured, I will inform these good people of our charitable mission.


    His objectiveplete, cknail smiled to himself and sat back down in his seat. He was just in time to overhear a bit of conversation between Gob and Geralhd.


    The merchants son turned bandit sounded apologetic. How have things been going here? It has been a while since myst visit, but Im impressed by everything youve aplished. I meant to stop in more and study what youve been doing, but getting here through the Green is difficult.


    I just did as I was told by the boss, Gob replied with an indifferent shrug.


    Ya, hes one of my best minions, cknail added as he walked over to join the conversation.


    Geralhd smiled at Backnail and waved a hand toward the goblin settlement. I never imagined that goblins could build such argemunity. Even back before humanitys conquests I dont think you built viges like this. Its huge.


    cknail grinned proudly. Im not a simple hobgoblin. Im cknail, the wise and terrible! There has never been anyone like me.


    True, Geralhd agreed as he carefully studied cknail for a moment. It looked like a thought had popped into his head. Youve certainly learned a lot from Saeter and others, such as me. The ancient hobgoblins didnt have that advantage.


    Plus, Im way tougher than they were. Being the strongest was important if you wanted to keep others in line.


    That probably doesnt hurt, although I think your intelligence and restraint exins your sess much better. Merely being strong isnt enough, as all the old philosophers exined at length, Geralhd replied. One of the most astounding features of the hobgoblins here is their self-control and ability to coexist so close to humans. Ive tried to serve as an ambassador of sorts between the two settlements, but there hasnt really been all that much friction to begin with.


    Gob nodded. Hobgoblins are only allowed to visit Shelter if they are with me or the boss, and I only go there to trade. We have things they want and they have things we want.


    Yes, your trading missions have done a lot to familiarize the people of Shelter to the presence of hobgoblins, Geralhd observed before turning back to cknail. Now that youre here, there was one thing that Im curious about. Does your vige have a name?


    A name? No. cknail grunted in surprise. He had never thought about it. The ce was simply his.


    You should think about naming it then, Geralhd told him. Its an incredibly fascinating ce. Its history in the making, and I cant wait to see how far goblins can develop their society.


    Bloody terrifying is what it is, Beardy the bandit huffed as he joined the conversation. Getting all happy about the green savages learning to copy people and organize themselves is crazy. They were dangerous to begin with. Now theyre terrifying.


    Hobgoblins are mostly just misunderstood, Geralhd countered.


    No, thats not true at all, you bookish fool. Live in the real world for once. It has always been obvious exactly what hobgoblins were, savage killers. Its only now that Saeters experiment here is around that they are beginning to change, Beardy replied as he nodded at cknail. Hes got them under his thumb, and is making them dance to his tune. Now who knows what is going to happen. The only thing that is guaranteed is that a whole bunch of people are going to die!


    cknail didnt think Beardy was wrong, but he was leaving an important bit out. Humans are always dying anyway, and with me around you are less likely to be one of those doing the dying.


    Ha, thats the only reason Ive stuck around so far. Dont think Im not on to you, hobgoblin. I know youve been messing around and manipting us ever since Herads fall.


    cknail put on his best startled yet innocent expression. I dont know what you mean.


    You know, Beardy replied as he gave cknail a steady re. Our trip to Daggerpoint smelled fishier than a beached sea serpent, especially the way you hurried us into leaving. Plus, your exnation for bringing these westerners here doesnt hold oil.


    I think youre being a little paranoid. I dont believe that cknail is the type to weave grand conspiracies, do you? Geralhdughed dismissively. His naivety was adorable.


    Well see, Beardy huffed before turning and walking away. cknail let him go and grinned to himself. It was far toote for Beardy to do anything about the n. Everything was already in motion.


    After talking to Gehd for a few more minutes, someone coughed politely behind cknail to get his attention. He turned around to see Garen, who nodded toward where Ilisti was standing next to the fire. Someone had carted Khita away while he hadnt been paying attention, but that wasnt important.


    My lord wishes to speak to you, Garen exined.


    Alright, cknail replied as he began walking over to the other vympir. Geralhd followed after him.


    I believe we need to n out our immediate goals. You told me you wanted to find a vige out in the Green, Ilisti said as cknail approached.


    The other nearby conversations died down as everyone else present listened in. They were all curious about Ilisti and his men, but most people hadnt dared approach them.


    Yes, Herstcrest. I wanted to um see if they had anything worth trading for, like steel. There have also been reports from my minions about strange hobgoblins in that area, so I want to check it out. If any of these other hobgoblins do anything bad, I dont want to be med for it.


    Ilisti nodded and met cknails eyes. It was clear he wanted amitment from cknail. When were you thinking of leaving? It sounds like this town might be in quite a lot of trouble, with so many hobgoblins around, and could use our help as soon as possible.


    cknail scratched his chin. In three days? We could all use some time to rest before heading back out into the Green.


    Ilsiti took a second to respond. That seems like it could work. Ill prepare my men to move out that morning.


    After carefully saying absolutely nothing that made it sound like that they were looking to go conquer one of Shelters neighbors, cknail and Ilisti separated. Around them, the other people present began talking and eating again. cknail sat down and Geralhd joined him.


    This stew is quite nice, Geralhd observed as he finished off another bowl. Whats in it?


    Uh, its a secret recipe, cknail replied absentmindedly as he stared into the fire. For some reason humans didnt like eating squirrels, even though the were both nutritious and delicious.


    Are you sure we can trust this Ilisti fellow? Something about him bothers me. Hes obviously a noble in exile, so why is he here?


    I told you, he is hiding from Werrick, like us. They are enemies, cknail told him.


    It took a little more convincing, but Geralhd eventually settled back down. He appeared to buy cknails exnation, although reluctantly. By that time the meeting was basically over. Everyone had separated and sorted themselves back into the groups they had arrived in, so cknail told everyone they could leave. As they left, he finished off thest of the stew in the pot. There was no more venison left.


    cknail spent the next two and a half days lounging around the hobgoblin settlement. When he wasnt eating or sleeping, he did random inspections of the camp. cknail wanted to make sure no one was cking off. He had no idea what any of the upants of the settlement were supposed to be doing, or what the purpose of the settlement even was at this point  he already had enough hobgoblin minions - but regardless, he wasnt going let any stupid goblins get away with not pulling their own weight. Everything in the settlement belonged to him, including all the food, and he wasnt giving it out for free.


    While he fulfilled his duties as the leader, cknail considered several important questions. Firstly, Geralhd had made a good point about naming the settlement, but nothing good was going to mind. Naming it after himself was the obvious answer, however that would probably confuse the stupider half of his minions. Secondly, cknail wasnt sure he wanted the ce to keep growing the way it was. He hadnt nned for that, and he was worried about the settlement copsing into chaos after getting toorge. How many hobgoblins could you shove into one small valley before they began ughtering everything in sight? Probably not that many, but cknail couldnt think of any way to actually stop the settlement from growing without doing something drastic, like ughtering every second goblin he saw. The problem with that was it might lead to all the goblins fleeing, and the hobgoblins turning on him. cknail thus decided to ignore his concerns about he size of the settlement for now. Nothing bad had happened yet, so everything would probably be fine from here on. Right?


    On the third morning, cknail awoke and went to gather up a bunch of minions for the expedition, only to find Gob outside and everything already organized. Three dozen hobgoblins with backpacks and sacks were standing behind Gob, including an excited looking Ferrar, and a smiling Herah. cknail rubbed the sleep from his eyes, but they didnt disappear. Huh.


    Where too, boss? Gob asked cheerfully.


    Briefly, cknail wondered if his input was even necessary, but then he dismissed the thought. Of course, it was. He was the leader.


    To Ilistis camp! cknail exined as he began leading the way. He chewed the breakfast Gob had brought him as he walked.


    Another surprise was waiting for cknail as they walked through the settlements gate. A group of humans were waiting for them, and it wasnt Ilistis men.


    There you are. I was afraid Id missed you! Khita remarked happily. There were half a dozen people behind her, including the two young men from Shelter that she had once helped kidnap, but were now apparently her friends.


    Oh, you survived cknail remarked as he looked her over.


    Thest hed heard, Khita had been taken to Shelter, where she hadin unconscious without showing any sign of waking up. cknail hadnt sent a messenger to check on her health, or anything like that. Hed just been worried that her corpse might explode and damage Shelter. Anything was possible when magic was involved.


    Khita appeared to be fully alive now, though. In fact, she seemed to be glowing from health. Did that mean she had survived the Elixir? Was there a chance she could still keel over? Probably not.


    What are you doing here? cknail asked the redhead. She could have at least looked sick and miserable.


    Im going with you, obviously, Khita told him. As if Id let you have an adventure without me.


    And why are you bringing those people? cknail asked as he peered past her to look at herpanions.


    They wanted toe, after I told them they should. Sitting around in Shelter is boring. Hassiol and Aris over there have never even left the vige, at least not for real. How sad is that? Its about time they lived a little, and this outing is just the opportunity.


    Um, ya Hassiol agreed with obvious reluctance.


    And the others? cknail asked as he looked at several former bandits and men from Shelter.


    Khita grinned proudly. They also decided to join up with me. I can be quite persuasive, and everyone loves adventure.


    Were here to keep on eye on the younglings and you, one of the men from Shelter told cknail, as Khita rolled her eyes.


    They just cant admit to themselves that they want more out of life than Shelter offers, the redhead countered.


    cknail sighed. I suppose you cane. Just dont slow us down.


    The hobgoblin chieftain turned away and headed over to Ilistis camp. When he got there, he saw that the vympirs men had almost finished packing the entire ce up. The tents had all been taken down and rolled up, while most of the soldiers were busy packing away their gear. Ilisti and Garen were standing at the edge of the camp and overseeing the work. They both turned to look when cknail and the others approached.


    Were almost ready to move. Are those peopleing with us? Ilisti asked.


    Shes still alive? Garen remarked in surprise when he noticed Khita. Speaking up while in his lords presence was unusual for him.


    They are bringing their own food, so they cane if they want, cknail told Ilisti as he shrugged. Getting rid of them would be a bigger bother than managing them.


    The vympir lord just nodded and went back to supervising his men. Garen stared at Khita for another second before scowling and turning away, and Khita chuckled at him. Soon after that, the vympirs men finished packing up the campsite, and the journey began.


    A huntsman from Shelter pointed them in the direction of the road that had used to lead to Herstcrest, but it was now almostpletely overgrown. It had only been a dirt path before so there wasnt much left of it, but cknails discerning eye could see where it had used to be. There was clearly a strip that extended through the brush where no trees grew, and the undergrowth was a little thinner because of the hard ground. The going wasnt that hard, though. Since the travelers group was sorge, the lead elements trampled the brush down for the people behind.


    As he was walking up to the front of the party, one of the people from Shelter stepped out of line to hail cknail. It was Aris, and Hassiol was standing right beside him.


    Um, youre cknail, right? the young man asked with a nervous stutter.


    cknail turned to re at him. You cant tell?


    How could anyone fail to recognize his magnificence? Was the kid stupid or blind?


    Aris went pale. No, I can. I just um wanted to be sure.


    So now you are. Did you want something else?


    Right, I was wondering how dangerous this trip is going to be. I mean, we have all these men here, whoever they are, and we have you. Your hobgoblins can handle anything that tries to attack us, right? The Green is supposed to be dangerous, but its not that bad, right?


    cknail gave Aris a disbelieving look. No, the Green is probably way more dangerous than youve been told. No onecould have told you about the really deadly things inside it, because the men who saw them are all dead.


    Aris went even paler. Khita said it would be safe.


    And you believed her? cknailughed as he walked away. Silly, human. If a drake or a big mutant attacks us then we are all going to die!

 To Forgotten Places 5

    To Forgotten ces 5


    cknail left Aris behind and walked up the line. Once he was up at the front of the column of soldiers, cknail led his scouts on ahead. That was the easiest way to avoid Khita and the others. Some of them might have questions he didnt want to answer, plus they were annoying.


    At hismand, Hobgoblins fanned out into the woods on either side and jogged on ahead. cknail didnt want to run into any surprises, and he wanted scouts out looking for signs of the unknown hobgoblins. Even with trackers out, it would take some luck to discover the location of the enemy hobgoblins. Most of the beasts in the Green would consider hobgoblins too dangerous to mess with, but there were some noticeable exceptions, so the feral goblins had undoubtedly hidden theirir somewhere out of sight.


    Thepletely overgrown road continued on unabated until the sky overhead began to darken. At the advice of one of his scouts, cknail led his party over to the base of rocky hill. They set up camp there, where it was dry and the face of hill protected one of their nks. Their encampment took up quite a bit of space. Dozens of tents and sleeping rolls littered the ground where it was clear of rocks and tree trunks. The hobgoblins set up near the bottom of the hill - with the humans up above - and cknail joined them. He had the biggest tent out of all the hobgoblins, although Ilistis was bigger, for now. Anyway, cknails was big enough for three people and grey colored. Hed gotten it as a gift after asking its old owner for it very politely.


    As cknail used one eye to watch a pair of hobgoblins set up his tent for him, and his other eye warily watched the hobgoblins he had assigned to guard Ferrar and keep him away from the campfire, Herah walked over.


    What do you want? cknail asked the female hobgoblin.


    Can I sleep with you? Your tent looksfy, Herah replied as she gave him an eager smile.


    cknail rolled his eyes. No.


    Alright, Ill go sleep in another hobgoblins tent tonight, Herah replied neutrally before walking away.


    What? The ease with which Herah had epted hismand confused cknail. She usually begged and pleaded with him for a while after he shut her down, and what was this about sleeping with someone else? Who was she talking about? As cknail watched, Herah joined up with a grinning Khita. They both nced at cknail briefly before moving on and disappearing out of sight behind a tent. cknail didnt like this. Khita seemed to be a terrible influence on Herah. As cknail was considering this development, he saw Geralhd wandering over his way. Immediately, the hobgoblin got up and headed in the opposite direction. cknail had his own food now, and Geralhd was already doing what cknail wanted, so there was no point in talking to him.


    cknail managed to avoid taking any responsibility for the rest of the night, and soon fell asleep in his tent. The next morning he awoke to the sound of birdsong. After taking a quick moment to stretch and enjoy the cool morning air, cknail then woke up the hobgoblins closest to him and got them up and moving. It took a little longer for the humans to start getting up, but the hobgoblins activity and all the noise they were making eventually woke them. Which had been cknails intention. He wanted to cover as much ground as possible today. Some of the small fires fromst night were rekindled as people warmed up breakfast and packed up their gear. Soon after that, Ilistis troops were marching through the forest. Like yesterday, the hobgoblins ranged ahead and everyone else followed behind them.


    cknail and several of his minions were at the very front of the group on the road. At first, he let the others trample down the brush, but then he grew bored and took the lead. cknail grunted as he pushed his way through some tall green nts that came up to his waist. Around him, the forest was quiet as he kept moving. The early morning birdcalls had died down, so that now there was only the rustling of the leaves in the wind and the thud of footsteps from back behind.


    While walking, cknail noticed that the trees were growingrger and closer together. Huh. Here, almost all of the trees were a variety with smooth white bark and thick trunks. At first it was nothing more than an idle observation, but then the trend continued. High above, long branches stretched out across the path and shadowed everything in sight, while the nts and branches closer to the ground began to grow bare and stunted. Warily, cknail called for everyone to stop. He then looked up and began scanning the thick canopy overhead. Stray beams of light pierced the green barrier, but cknail didnt see any movement. That wasnt good. Normally, there should have been some critters moving in the trees.


    As cknail was contemting this, one of the scouts hed sent up ahead returned and reported in. He told cknail that the forest got even darker ahead, and that hed turned back instead of pressing on, which cknail considered to be the right move. While the hobgoblins were talking, the humans grew impatient. Both Ilisti and Geralhd walked over together.


    Why have we halted our progress? Ilisti asked.


    Frowning, cknail turned toward them. Because the forest ahead is dark and dangerous. We should go around it, which means finding a new path.


    Geralhd sighed. You want to leave the path? That sounds like that will really slow us down and might even get us lost. What is up ahead that has you so apprehensive?


    cknail pointed off to his left, where the rows of shadowy white-barked trees were clearly visible. The forest is too dark here, and it grows even darker up ahead. That is a bad sign. Dangerous things lurk in the dark parts of the forest.


    Ilisti nodded in agreement but Geralhd just looked confused as he studied the trees. Dark? What does the darkness have to do with anything? I guess I havent been in any parts of the forest quite like this before. The trees certainly are huge, and its a little strange looking, but are you saying something dangerous dwells hereabouts, such as trolls?


    Trolls go wherever they want, cknail huffed. Youve never been to a ce like this because everyone avoids them, and for good reason. Its the spiders that like it in the dark ces.


    Spiders? Geralhd chuckled. Youre worried about some small arachnids?


    As cknail gave Geralhd an annoyed look, Ilisti spoke up. No, the hobgoblin has it right. Out west we avoid the oldest parts of the forest for the same reason. Canopy crawlers might not be a true threat to arge group of prepared men, but its still best to avoid their territory. There is no telling howrge their territory is, and we could end up with more than a few of our men paralyzed for days or even dead if they get bitten multiple times.


    Really? Geralhd asked in surprise. What kind of spiders are we talking about?


    cknail held out his hands so that they were a good three feet apart, which was a bit of an exaggeration. Big ones that build huge webs. They live in swarms up in the tress and drop down on people. Very nasty. Their poison bites make peoples bodies go stiff, and then they tie you up in webs so that they can eat youter. It is a bad way to die.


    Why has no one ever told me about these creatures before? Geralhd remarked as he shuddered and threw a nervous nce at the trees. It was if he expected a swarm of spiders to burst out at any moment.


    Canopy crawler swarms stay exclusively in the oldest parts of the forest. They almost never wander out, so they are only a danger to people who enter the deepest part of the Green. If a swarm starts to build up near a vige, they usually just burn it out, Ilisiti exined.


    What he said, cknail agreed, even though he hadnt actually known most of that. He just knew the spiders were creepy and bad.


    Well, thats a relief to learn. In light of this new information, Im fully behind finding a way around the man-eating spiders, Geralhd told them.


    After a bit more talking, the two humans withdrew, and cknail went back to conversing with his scouts. He needed to find the best way around the old growth before they could start moving again. Eventually, he decided that it was better to go left, because the spiders territory appeared to extend further to right. With this in mind, cknail led everyone off the overgrown road and into the trees.


    Cautiously, the group made their way forward along the edge of the spiders territory for over two hours. The going was tough because the ground was muddy and uneven in ces, but fortunately, the old growth began to recede after that, and they were able to make their way safely back to the remains of the road.


    As cknail was walking and studying an old twisted tree to his left, because the warped wood looked like a ce that giant spiders might hide, movement from his right drew his attention. The bushes shuddered as one of the hobgoblin scouts hed sent out to explore the forest returned. The hobgoblin saw his leader and gave him a sloppy salute, so cknail nodded and motioned for him to rx. Some of his minions were copying things they saw the humans doing. That was usually a good thing, but it was a little annoying that they all copied different things. Someone really needed to set up some standards. Stupidzy minions.


    The scout dropped his salute. I found a goblin trail, boss. Several of the smelly runts are using it a lot, so it should take us right to their base.


    Good job. Lets see it, cknail replied.


    The scout immediately led cknail deeper into the forest, as the humans continued on down the path without him. After a few minutes of walking through the trees, they reached an old rotten log that was speckled with green moss. The hobgoblin scout rested one of his feet on the log and pointed at the ground on the far side of it.


    Its there. Many goblin feet scratched the dirt here, he observed.


    Mildly curious, cknail leaned forward to look. There were indeed dozens of goblin sized footprints in the wet dirt beside the log.


    Go get the others. We will leave the humans and a few guides behind while the rest of us find the enemyir. We can catch up to the slow noisy humans easily enoughter, cknail told his minion.


    The hobgoblin nodded and ran off. While he waited for him to return, cknail searched the area. When he failed to find anything of interest, he sat down on the log and rested his feet. It took a few minutes for his minions to arrive. With Scamp at their lead they trudged through the woods and joined him. There were twenty of them in total, which was probably more than enough to deal with some feral hobgoblins. In fact, it was probably massive overkill. cknail could probably handle it by himself, but a show of force was always useful when you were dealing with hobgoblins.


    Confident in his power, cknail didnt send out minions to clear the way of any goblins that might detect his partys approach. It was almost better for him if the enemy forces gathered, so he could deal with them all at once, and it was unlikely that any feral tribe of goblins that contained multiple hobgoblins would run from a challenge. Their leaders couldnt afford to look weak.


    After about half an hour of hiking, the goblin tracks grew more plentiful and fresher. There were also somerger prints that had clearly been made by a hobgoblin. cknail smiled to himself as he stopped for a second to study them. They were definitely headed in the right direction and would soon find their target. Indeed, after just a few more minutes, cknails party stumbled out into a huge clearing that was obviously upied.


    The trees had given way to a wide field full of short grass that was hundreds of feet across, and nestled between a tall hill and arge creek. It was a very inviting scene, but the truly eye-catching thing was the obviously artificial parts. Six small buildings stood in the middle of the clearing. They were primitive things, simr to the bark and branch huts Gob had first built, but they were far more than cknail had been expecting to find. Around the huts, the goblins had built barricades of wooden spikes that had been tied together. They were full of holes and didnt block off every way into the vige, but they would definitely hamper and annoy any beasts that tried to hunt down the goblins within. The goblins would also be able to dive through them to avoid and outmaneuver predators. Actually, as cknail looked back at the huts, he noticed that they all had sharpened stakes sticking out in a lot of ces, and they didnt have doors. Instead, the huts could only be entered through tunnels in the ground.


    I dont see any of the goblins that live here, Scamp observed as he looked around. After scanning the vige he studied the forest around them, as if looking for an ambush.


    They probably ran away and hid the second they saw our glorious and handsome master, Herah replied. She sounded proud of herself for some reason.


    cknail scratched his nose. If they are inside the huts then it will be very annoying to get them out. Going in through the tunnels would be stupid. Theyd just stomp us to death one at a time, so wed need to cut through the walls.


    Just challenge them. If their leaders donte out all the goblins will know theyre cowards, another hobgoblin remarked.


    Thats not a bad idea. Ill go in alone. Wait here, cknail told his minions.


    The hobgoblin chieftain began walking out into the clearing. He felt confident. With six huts of that size, the vige probably contained less than six hobgoblins and less than sixty goblins. Obviously, that was more than he wanted to fight at one time, but the feral goblins wouldnt attack a hobgoblin without hobgoblins driving them. As for the feral hobgoblins, cknail was more than a match for them. He had Elixir, and a good steel sword that he had trained to use. A few feral hobgoblins with pointy sticks werent a threat to him.


    When cknail had gotten within forty feet of the vige, he stopped and coughed to clear his throat. He then yelled at the top of his lungs. Hey! All you stupid runts who sleep in your own shit, are you just going to hide like filthy squirrels in a tree?


    Grinning, cknail studied the vige. That ought to ruffle some feathers. The feral hobgoblins were probably shaking in terror while they hid in the dark. Still, they would have no choice but toe out and face him once they realized hed challenged them alone. Suddenly, movement all around the vige drew cknails attention. As he watched, six hobgoblins and a dozen goblins rose up from where they had been hiding beside the spike barriers. They were either naked or wearing ragged fur loincloths, but cknails attention was swiftly drawn to what they were holding in their hands. Those looked like slings


    Uh oh. cknails eyes widened as the ferals all turned to face him and raised their weapons. The slings began to spin. Perhaps he might have made a slight miscalction here. <strong>Crack. </strong>A swarm of stones shot toward cknail as the ferals unloaded their weapons.


    Bloody piss, cknail swore as he dove onto the ground.


    He was a little too slow. He heard a dull thud as a stone hit his shoulder, and then pain exploded through his body. Rolling up into a ball to protect his head, cknail pulled out a vial of Elixir and downed the entire thing. Instantly, the pain that consumed his side dimmed. Shielding his face as he looked up, cknail saw the ferals preparing tounch another volley his way. As the fire of the Elixir burned though his blood, cknail hissed and pushed out with his mind. A st of fear rippled out and mmed into the ferals just as they began shooting again. The wave of terror caused many of the ferals to flinch, making their projectiles to go wide, but cknail dropped back down on to the ground just in case.


    By this time, Scamp and the others were reacting to the attack on their chieftain. Luckily, several of them had bows. They nocked arrows and took aim at the ferals. Three hobgoblins went down as arrows mmed into their chests. Surprised by the unexpected barrage, the feral goblins screamed and fled. The feral hobgoblins froze as cknails minions ran over to see if their boss was alright.


    cknail didnt wait for them. He rose to his feet and screamed in wordless fury at the remaining ferals. How dare they hurt him. They were nothing. He was going to rip them apart with his bare hands while he sted their pathetic minds to pieces with pure terror! cknails voice shook the air. Its impact was almost physical, and caused all the feral hobgoblins to jump from fright. A momentter, thest of the visible ferals dashed off into forest. An arrow from one of cknails minions took a hobgoblin in the back, but the others got away.


    Rather then go anywhere near their enraged chieftain, his minions ran past cknail and over to the huts. However, since they werecking orders and didnt know what to do with themselves, the hobgoblins stopped and held their ground once they had actually reached the goblin vige. ring malevolently, but gradually cooling off, cknail stomped over to join them. It was vengeance time.


    Eyeing his boss warily, Scamp spoke up first. What do you want us to do now? I think we won.


    Ya, great job boss. You were a very brave and incredibly skilled decoy. We are all in awe of your magnificence, another minion added, which earned him a re.


    Thank you. It was all part of my n, cknail told his minions. Now I order you kill every feral hobgoblin you find, and make it hurt.


    Even her? Scamp asked as he pointed behind cknail.


    cknail looked over to see a hobgoblin emerge from one of the tunnels that led into the huts. She immediately raised her hands in gesture of surrender, and her sex was obvious since she wasnt wearing anything but a loincloth. Hobgoblin females had much smaller breasts than humans, but they could still easily be told apart from males.


    Alright, maybe not her, cknail replied as he carefully studied the neer. He was still mad, but now other feelings were starting to build within him.

 To Forgotten Places 6

    To Forgotten ces 6


    The female hobgoblin didnt appear to be afraid of cknail and his minions. That was a little surprising since they had just finished ughtering arge part of hermunity. She regarded each hobgoblin calmly before orienting on cknail and walking over to him. With sword still in hand, cknail watched her warily. It was interesting, if unsurprising, that she had instantly figured out that he was the leader. She must have been affected by his inspiring aura ofmand.


    After pulling his eyes away from the females chest, cknail studied the rest of her. She was of average height for a hobgoblin, but her body was noticeably curvier, especially around the hips. Her long ck hair had been tied back in a ponytail, and cknail noticed some subtle lines around her eyes. Huh, hed assumed that she was young, but that didnt appear to be the case. In fact, she was probably the oldest hobgoblin hed ever met. Although, that wasnt hard. Feral hobgoblins rarely lived more than a few years as far as cknail could tell, and this female was still more than young enough to be attractive looking. It was simply a mature beauty, not unlike a certain woman that cknail wasnt going to think about.


    As cknail was purging his mind of awkward thoughts, the female hobgoblin stopped in front of him and made a series of undecipherable squeaks. It was rather cute sounding, but meant nothing to cknail at all.


    Right, there is no way you speak human, cknail observed before sighing in frustration.


    He turned to his minions. Did any of you understand that?


    A young hobgoblin that cknail had never bothered to learn the name of raised his hand. I got a little of it. Its not so different from the old tribe speak.


    What did she say?


    The hobgoblin nced between cknail and the feral female. She is surrendering to you, and she thinks you are handsome.


    Well, she isnt blind, cknail huffed in reply. Ask her who was in charge of this ce.


    cknails minion nodded and said a few guttural words to the feral female. She nodded and spoke a few quick sentences back. The hobgoblin minion frowned and then turned to cknail.


    She says there was no real leader. The males fought, and she tried to keep everyone from killing each other.


    cknail considered this. He could sort of see this goblin settlement working that way, although he was suspicious that this female was leaving something out. This was the first time he had encountered multiple feral hobgoblins living together, and there had to be a reason for that.


    Hmmm, I dont think she is beingpletely honest, cknail mused aloud.


    Yes, she is lying. She has a no good liars face, Herah remarked angrily as she walked up beside cknail and red at the neer.


    The feral female had been maintaining a pleasant smile, but as she noticed Herah, a displeased scowl appeared on her face. The expression vanished a momentter, but cknail noted it with interest, and it unleashed a chain of thoughts in his mind. That was the look of someone who was used to getting their own way. It seemed likely that this female had been the settlements true ruler, and that she had yed all the male hobgoblins against each other, while simultaneously enticing them so that they didnt wander off. cknail had some personal experience with that sort of female behavior. She was definitely smarter than her malepatriots anyway, since she wasnt dead or fleeing for her life.


    But what should we do with her? cknail mused aloud.


    Kill her like the males, Herah immediately responded. She will just cause problems.


    She might know something important, Scamp suggested with a shrug.


    Like what? Shes a feral, cknail countered. His tribe was better than hers in every way.


    Herah grimaced before reluctantly speaking up Ask her why there are so few female hobgoblins.


    Why that? cknail asked Herah. Hed wondered about the same thing before, but the question had sort ofe out of nowhere.


    Im just curious if she knows. Khita asked me about it, but no one knew the answer.


    Shrugging, cknail told his minion to pass the question on, which he promptly did. The feral female seemed to consider the query for a few moments before replying. However, her words seemed to confuse the trantor, because he scratched his head in a puzzled way.


    Something about small goblins Oh, I get it. She says babies get in the way, the trantor exined. She also said that after her first litter she couldnt have any more babies, so when she got bigger she focused on protecting her babies and their babies.


    cknail nodded in understanding. Ah, makes sense.


    Ya, Ive never had any, but all the other female goblins were mating all the time, like everywhere, Herah agreed. So, now that she has answered the question, lets kill her.


    Not quite yet, cknail told her.


    He found the feral female interesting. She was obviously very unique for a hobgoblin, and this entire hobgoblin settlement had obviously sprung into existence because of her. Most goblin mothers didnt care much for the lives of their adult children. The little things quickly learned to take care of themselves, but this female was different. Since she couldnt have new ones, she had be attached to them, and had thus created a tribe. Also, if she truly cared about the goblins here, that meant she could be predicted and controlled. Most hobgoblins didnte with such a useful weakness.


    What are we doing with all of this? Scamp asked as he looked around the entire settlement. We should burn it and then loot it.


    There were nods and mumbles of agreement from most the other hobgoblins, which earned them an annoyed re from their chieftain.


    You have to loot it first. Loot, then burn, cknail told them sourly. This was basic stuff.


    There probably wasnt much of value here, though. cknail wandered away from his minions and began to look around. He walked over to the huts and inspected them. They were cramped and dirty, but inside he saw several crude y bowls and some stone tools. None of it was worth looting. Muttering to himself, cknail then turned to look around the rest of the clearing. To his surprise, he noticed that there was an unusual amount of berry bushes scattered around. They had obviously been cultivated. Looking around some more, cknail saw two other patches of nts that looked like they had been nted on purpose. They were unusually healthy and the ground around them had been torn up to give them room to grow. The first was a tall nt with a thin stalk and arrow-shaped leaves, while the other was a small bushy nt with tiny reddish leaves.


    What are these? cknail asked the trantor.


    When the feral female was finished listening, she hurried inside one of the huts and came back out with two fist-sized y pots that had lids. She then opened them, and made some noises as she showed cknail their contents. They were full of dried leaves.


    She says you put one on meat to make it tastier, and that you drink the other, the trantor exined. How do you drink leaves?


    Its tea, cknail exined to his minion as he studied the leaves. Was there a way to find smarter minions? This bunch werent impressing him.


    The feral hobgoblin let out a series of grunts, which were promptly tranted. She offers them to you if you spare her, and she will mate with you too.


    Im not going to mate with her right here, cknail replied as he rolled his eyes and thought about sword drills.


    The offer was tempting, but he wasnt that stupid. While he was distracted, one of his minions might stab him in the back. Most likely it would be Herah, because she was ring at him quite intently. He could feel her eye burning into the back of his head.


    cknail decided that he wanted to try the herbs himself, so he ordered it done. He then sat down and waited as the female feral went about preparing it. As she was working, some of the feral goblins within the huts began to peak out as curiosity started to ovee their fear. A few minutester, the female hobgoblin handed cknail a cup of tea and a piece of cooked meat that had been rubbed with the second herb.


    What if its poison? Herah asked.


    Then she dies, cknail replied as he took his first sip of the tea.


    It wasnt bad. cknail smiled. It was bitter, but almost in a good way. His mouth tasted cleaner after tasting the drink. The meat was also much better tasting with the herb. It had a spicy vor, that cknail had only ever encountered in human food before. He wanted this for his own settlement. Nothing was more important to a hobgoblin than getting five proper meals a day.


    The feral female noticed cknails happy grin. She straightened up and smiled proudly to herself, as if taking credit for the taste of the herbs. The action reminded cknail of Khita, which was a buzzkill. Wait, Herah also acted a lot like Khita. cknail had assumed that was because they were close, but what if all hobgoblin females acted like Khita? A cold feeling washed over cknail and he shivered. The world was suddenly a much darker ce.


    Gathering his strength, cknail put his empty cup down. He was probably wrong about the Khita thing, and he needed to focus. How was he going to bring these herbs to his base? They were unlikely to grow if he uprooted them. It took over a day to reach the base from here, and they werent seeding right now. It was still spring. He had been nning on destroying this settlement, but that didnt seem like a good option now. He didnt want a rival tribe near his own territory, but he wanted to make sure these herbs didnt get lost.


    It looked like he would have to keep the ce intact, at least until he got the herbs growing in the fields over by his own settlement. The female feral would have to be spared as well. Of course, there were some other advantages to not burning the whole feral vige down. It would prevent all the goblins in this area from migrating to cknails settlement, which is what they would undoubtedly do if the vige was destroyed. The bloody pests would move in en mass and steal his food! There were already too many goblins there. cknail didnt want more.


    I need to leave some minions here to watch the herbs, cknail mused as he turned to study his minions.


    Obviously, he couldnt leave these ferals here alone. The problem was that if he left some of his minions here to rule over the ce they might betray him. Hobgoblins couldnt be trusted to stay loyal without daily reminders of who was the boss. Also, any minions that went rogue would be far more dangerous than ferals.


    cknail looked at Scamp, who looked back uprehendingly. Was that the answer?


    Were not looting the ce, cknail announced as he stood up. There were disappointed looks from many of his minions.


    What are we doing? Scamp asked.


    Youre staying here, with three others. Im putting you in charge of this ce, cknail exined as he pointed at the other three hobgoblins one by one.


    Yes, this would work. Scamp was too stupid to betray him, and even if he did, he wouldnt be much of a threat. He also knew enough about hunting, building, and training to serve as the leader here. He didnt need to do much thinking because cknail and Gob had already taught him everything he needed to know.


    Scamp blinked in surprise. Why? What do you want me to do here?


    cknail shrugged. Rule in my name. The most important thing is that you kill everyone who defies me. After that, you need to grow a lot more of these herbs and protect this ce. Start by getting all the goblins to build some real walls.


    Alright, Scamp replied. He sounded unsure of himself. His new orders had obviously caught him by surprise.


    Ill be back in a few days. Feel free to mate with the feral female! cknail said as he began to walk back toward the forest.


    Wait, youre leaving right now? Scamp asked as his eyes widened in panic.


    Ya, I need to catch up with the humans. Good luck! cknail replied as the other hobgoblins started following him away, including Herah, who was now smiling gleefully.


    The feral female watched them leave, and then walked over to Scamp and leaned up against him. This startled Scamp, who had been staring at cknail. However, that was when cknail looked away and stepped into the shadow of the trees. Scamp would have to take care of himself. He would probably live until cknail sent someone to check on him.


    Without wasting any more time, cknail led the way back over to the trail they had left the humans at. He broke out into a fast jog, since they needed to make up a lot of lost time. However, even at that speed, it was over two hours before they caught up. cknail jogged up past Aris and the others and over to Ilsiti, who was near the front of the column.


    Oh, youre back. Did you take care of your problem? Ilisti asked cknail.


    Probably. I killed just the right number of hobgoblins, I think, he replied.


    Ha, you dont sound too sure of yourself.


    cknail sighed. How do you humans keep your minions loyal, even when they are far away from you?


    Ah, that is something nobility has always worried about, particrly my own people, since we rely so much on personal charisma and strength to justify our rule. The problem might be central to the advance of human civilization itself. Certainly, empires have risen and fallen because the loyalty of men has ebbed like water on the shore.


    Right. So, do you have an answer? cknail asked, Humans seemed to rule over veryrge territories, even if they said a lot of nonsense. They must know something.


    For hobgoblins? I dont know, Ilisti mused. What exactly is your problem?


    I need to keep a watch on some hobgoblins that live far away from me at an outpost in the Green.


    Hmm, proximity might not be your real problem out here in the Green. This is almost the opposite of what my own people do, but expanding kingdoms and empires used good roads and cavalry to speed up the movements of their troops. That in turn allowed them to keep distant vassal states under control more easily. If you make it easier and faster for people to travel to this outpost then they will feel you presence there much more acutely. Once travel is easy, you can also send out frequent messengers and shuffle administrators around, so they dont get toofortable in one location.


    Yes, that makes sense to me, so why dont you westerners do it? cknail asked suspiciously.


    Ilsiti grimaced sourly. Because most Vympir are focused on protecting what we have, instead of empire building. In my opinion, that is one of our few weaknesses, and why we dont rule all of humanity. Most of the old lords are paranoid and istionist. They care only about securing their next meal.


    Well, even if youre too scared to use it yourself, its still a good idea, cknail replied. There was a groan from Garen, who was standing on the other side of his master.


    Ilisti just smiled. Thats not an exact summary of what I said, although I understand your confusion.


    cknail shrugged. People are confusing.


    That we are, Ilsiti admitted.


    Since he suddenly had a lot to think about, cknail picked up the pace and pulled ahead of the humans so that he could join the scouts at the vanguard. As he followed the old abandoned road, cknail considered the Vympirs words. He could reduce the time it took to reach the feral vige by clearing this old road of vegetation, and it might even be possible to do something about the spiders


    The travelers continued on their way for several hours. cknail and two other hobgoblins led the way past a shallow creek and arge pond. The only real barrier they faced was one section of the road that had been upied by a mimic. Thankfully, one of the scouts detected it and they knocked it off bnce from a safe distance using spears and then finished it off with axes. Soon after that, another hobgoblin returned from scouting up ahead with news.


    I found the humans you were looking for, the scout told cknail. They are just past the next two hills.


    Oh, they are still alive? cknail asked him.


    They are moving around and stuff, so I think so. They are also doing a lot of that thing where you take care of nts.


    Farming?


    Ya, that.


    Do they have any sentries out?


    No, not in the forest. It looks like they watch the fields, though.


    cknail nodded. Since they were finally approaching their destination, he walked back to get Gehd and Ilisti. Once the three of them were together, they quicklypleted thest stretch of their journey. From atop a hill that rose up above the treetops, they surveyed the town of Herstcrest.


    Judging by those cleared fields and those smoking chimneys, Id say this town is definitely still popted, Gehd remarked as they all studied thendscape before them. I would have bet against it surviving even this long. Civilization, it seems, is hardier than I believed possible.


    Nestled between a river and a line of rocky hills was a long valley that had been cleared of trees. Crops had been nted all throughout it, except for where the town itself stood. Herstcrest was nestled up at the base of cliff and every other side of it was protected by a rough stone wall. It looked to be about twice the size of Shelter, judging by the number of houses.


    Ilsiti scowled as he pointed to a structure in the middle of the fields. Thats a watch tower, and it is poorly ced to survey the forest or anyone approaching the fields from outside.


    What does that mean? Geralhd asked.


    It means it was put there to keep on eye on the workers, lest they ck off or run. I do not believe outsiders such as us will receive a warm wee here, Ilisti exined as his eyes narrowed dangerously.


    cknail chuckled. Almost no one is ever happy to see me, but that has never stopped me before. Lets go introduce ourselves!

 To Forgotten Places 7

    To Forgotten ces 7


    We need a n, Geralhd observed. If these reclusive folk are as hostile as you suggest they are then we cant just walk in unannounced and expect them to greet us with open arms.


    cknail, Ilisti, Garen, and him were still staring down at the town of Herstcrest from a hill out in the forest. They hade a long way to find the town, and now they had. Of course, some of them were here for different reasons. Geralhd thought the was tagging along on a scouting mission, while Ilisti was here to conquer the ce.


    We could sneak in after nightfall and kill all their leaders in their sleep, cknail suggested.


    Um, what would that aplish, exactly? Geralhd replied uncertainly. Garen and Ilisti didnt look convinced either.


    cknail smiled sheepishly. Its just sort of what I do?


    Well, we will keep that option in mind, Ilisti responded dryly. However, I believe a less drastic first move would better serve our ends.


    Garen looked thoughtful. We could just take the town. Even without the hobgoblins and their skill as infiltrators, our troops could undoubtedly march down there and seize that gate with minimal losses. The people are highly unlikely to be organized or effective soldiers.


    We dont actually know that these people are hostile yet. We just got here, Geralhd pointed out firmly. Striking first would be unconscionable. A lot of innocent people could easily be hurt by such a reckless course of action.


    Ilisti nodded. I agree. I would rather not create any unnecessary grudges or resentments among the popce. When we move on the towns rulers, it must be with secure motives and moral justification, so that we can maintain a good rtionship with themon folk.


    I think you mean <em>if </em>we move against the towns rulers. Geralhd replied warily.


    Ilisti gave him vague nod before looking back at the town. As you say.


    Geralhd frowned. Its obvious that we need to talk to them. A delegation is the obvious answer.


    Sending in only a small group might be dangerous. We dont know how they will react.


    A show of force from our troops might keep them in line. We could march them out into the open. No one would get hurt then, Garen suggested.


    Or such an action could easily frighten them into not epting the delegation at all, Ilisti mused thoughtfully. They are obviously reclusive, and they might lock their doors at the slightest provocation. If we want to make sure they ept a delegation we have to make it look as harmless and valuable as possible.


    Listening intently, cknail sighed quietly. His assassination n was sounding better and better the more he listened. This was getting annoyinglyplicated, and in his experience, the best way to simplify things was to kill some unnecessary humans.


    Oblivious to cknail, Geralhd nodded in agreement with Ilisti. We could send some people in posing as traders or merchants. Secluded as they are, these people must be in desperate need of certain goods, like a decent vintage of wine. We have a cart here, and it could pass as a merchants vehicle. It would be easy enough to load it up with some of our supplies toplete the disguise.


    Garen was less enthused by this idea. That doesnt solve the safety problem. We are still sending this delegation into a dangerous situation we cant predict. They will be greatly outnumbered, and their escape route will be cut off. Whats to stop these peasants from simply swarming them and taking their cargo?


    There was silence as everyone considered this problem.


    How likely is that, do you think? Geralhd asked after a few long moments.


    Quite, Ilisti replied. As I pointed out before, those watch towers suggest that themunity is tightly policed, and thus probably hostile to outsiders who might bring trouble with them. Also, isted as they are, who would punish them for robbing and killing some travelers?


    cknail perked up. He had just thought of a solution, and this time it wasnt to kill everyone in their sleep. How about we send in our toughest fighters, then? Ilisti, Garen, and me could take some fat town humans, easy.


    Garen opened his mouth as it to object, but Ilisti cut him off. That could work. Yes, there would be definite advantages to such an introduction.


    Then lets do it! cknail eximed cheerfully. This sounded like it was going to be great fun!


    Unfortunately, while the adults had been talking, Khita had snuck over to listen to their conversation.


    If you want to bring all the strongest fighters along, I shoulde too. she announced as she walked up behind cknail. Im a Vessel now!


    No, cknail told her.


    Geralhd shook his head at her. You dont have any Elixir and you are still new to your abilities, so Im with cknail here.


    Khita scowled. But


    No, cknail told her sternly. Stay with the vigers you brought. They are your responsibility.


    Khita didnt look happy, but she shut up, and that was the important thing. Sighing, cknail turned back to the vympirs, whod remained silent. We have a n, so lets go!


    Geralhd coughed to get everyones attention. There was a doubtful look on his face. What about the disguise? Do any of you know anything about the particrs of a merchants trade? Youre a noble, a soldier, and a hobgoblin.


    The vymprs and the hobgoblin looked at each other. None of them had a response to that, so cknail turned to look at Geralhd. Alright, you cane with us. Youre from a merchant family, right?


    Geralhds mouth fell open in surprise. Um, that wasnt what I was getting at.


    Dont worry. Youre a big bad bandit, remember! You got this, cknail told him.


    Yes, youre the obvious choice to pose as the leader of this delegation, Ilisti added. Garen and I will be your guards, while cknail stays with the cart and serves as the packman.


    Oh, good Geralhd remarked neutrally as he realized hed walked into a trap of his own making.


    With their discussion over, everyone got to work preparing their disguises and organizing the delegation. The supplies on the donkey cart were rearranged, and everyone put on long brown rain cloaks. When the cart was ready, they headed out into the fields. Geralhd drove the cart while the others walked alongside it. Unlike a horse, the donkey tolerated cknails presence, even if was obviously and rightly afraid of him.


    After they had been on the rough dirt road that led to Herstcrests gates for a few minutes, Geralhd began to look really nervous. They were surrounded on all sides by uneven fields.


    I think I just saw someone run into the town. They must have been out working in the fields and seen us, Geralhd said. From up on the cart, he had a better vantage point than the others.


    Thats to be expected. We dont want to surprise them anyway, Ilisti reassured Geralhd. Garen and him lookedpletely calm as they trudged along beside the cart.


    So, whats the worst case scenario here? Geralhd asked.


    Garen huffed in annoyance. That this ce is ruled by an ancient vympir lord who immediately squashes us into paste. Try not to think about it.


    There could also be an incredibly intelligent hobgoblin inside that sees right through our disguises and is so cunning that we are helpless before him, cknail added. Although, thats unlikely since Im the smartest hobgoblin ever.


    This got a chuckle from Ilisti, but everyone else was silent as they approached the gates. When they reached the wooden doors, they stopped and waited for something to happen. cknail used this time to study the towns defenses. The wall was made of small stones that had been mortared together into a barrier that was about eight feet tall. It was certainly better at keeping things out than Shelters walls, but it still didnt seem designed to stop a determined attacker. It was more like a really sturdy fence. Suddenly, someone yelled their way.


    Who goes there? a man shouted down at them. He was standing on the wall, right next to the gate. Everyone immediately looked at Geralhd, who winced in an anxious manner as he was put on the spot.


    Ah, hello there! Geralhd called back with false cheer. Im a travelling merchant. I got lost in the forest a while back and somehow ended up here, in front of your rather inviting looking home. Id like toe in and sell some of my wares, if you dont mind, good man


    Who is that all with you? the man on the wall asked. He sounded suspicious.


    These are just my guards and my packman. Travelling alone in the Green is a terrible idea, but dont worry, theyre harmless. I basically pay them to keep mepany on my travels. My packman is actually worse than them. He has been known to bite, Geralhd joked. cknail found it funny.


    There was no immediate reply to this, but the doors began to swing open.


    Am I the only one who finds this ominous? Geralhd asked.


    Yes, get the cart moving, Garen replied. Geralhd did as he was told, and soon they were passing into Herstcrest.


    Before them, a paved street appeared that was lined by houses. Most of the visible homes were wooden with stone foundations. None of them looked new, and many were run down. cknail thought he saw movement at some of the windows, but the upants were keeping out of sight. Directly in the carts path stood a small crowd of two dozen men. cknail immediately noticed that most of them were of the thuggish variety, and that there wasnt a single visible woman.


    One man was quite noticeably different from the others. He was shortest, and he was wearing a long purple coat. It stood out, since all the other men had on in brown clothes. The short man was also standing in the very middle of the group, and he had a jovial smile on his face, while the others were glowering sternly at the neers.


    After snapping the donkeys reins and bringing the cart to a halt, Geralhd jumped down and turned to face the man in the purple coat. As per the n, cknail stayed back by the cart, while Garen and Ilisti moved to stand behind Geralhd in as non-threatening a way as possible. The hobgoblin and the vympirs were still wearing their long brown rain cloaks to disguise their more rming features.


    Geralhd coughed politely to get everyones attention. Hello there! This is a nice little town you have here. I like the um quaint homes.


    There was a loud thud as the gate behind them snapped shut again, and Geralhd flinched. Meanwhile. the man in the purple coat studied Geralhd and his cart. Youre supposed to be a merchant? It has been a while since any of your ilk chanced upon this valley. It seems the roads arent as well maintained as they used to be.


    The short man chuckled briefly as he finished speaking, and his thugs snickered along with him, although cknail hadnt found his words to be funny at all. In fact, the thugs didnt seem amused either. All of them looked gaunt and there was a hungry gleam in their eyes. ckanil studied them carefully. Everything about them reeked of blood and barely constrained violence. Even most of the bandits hed encountered had seemed calmer and friendlier by far. Something was wrong about them, although cknail couldnt put his finger on what.


    Geralhd smiled as neutrally as possible. Yes, I noticed the poor condition of the roads, myself. How astute of you. I sort of stumbled into this ce by ident, although there is no reason it cant be a happy ident! I was following a road to the south, when one of my guardsman spotted a pack of desperate bandits waiting in ambush ahead of us. To evade them, we took a side route off into the Green, and thus promptly gotpletely and utterly lost.


    Well, the outside world is certainly a treacherous and dangerous ce. Its much safer here in Herstcrest, the man in the coat replied thoughtfully.


    I can tell from your noble bearing that youre a man of some standing, but you havent introduced yourself yet. May I humbly ask your name and title? Im known as Geralhd Delsavius.


    Yes, how silly of me. You are quite correct, stranger. Im the mayor of this little patch of heaven, and my name is Felsisio Melvarea. Im pleased to wee someone with such a discerning eye.


    Yes, it would please me greatly to sell all my wares here in your wonderful town. Perhaps I could set up a stall or something?


    The mayor huffed in displeasure. That would be pointless. Im afraid you wont find very many buyers among the townsfolk. They have little use for money anymore. No, I will browse your goods and personally do all of the purchasing, acting in my capacity as the representative of Herstcrest, of course. In particr, Im curious as to whether you have any good wine on you. It has been a while since weve had a decent vintage.


    The news about the townsfolkcking money seemed to unsettle Geralhd. He couldnt keep a scowl from his face, and he muttered quietly to himself. Greedy little toad. He ns on robbing me in in daylight.


    cknail wasnt sure why Geralhd cared. They werent really here as merchants. It was all a rouse.


    Geralhd sighed and turned to look at the mayor again. Then, perhaps we could discuss amodations, before getting down to business? Im sure my servants are looking forward to real beds and the safety of solid walls after so long on the road.


    First, I must insist that you disarm your guards and hand over their weapons. There is no need for such violent tools within Herstcrest, the mayor replied smugly. Behind him, his heavily armed mob of thugs loomed menacingly. The inconstancy of this didnt appear to matter to the mayor.


    I hardly think that is necessary, Geralhd countered warily. My servants are no threat to you and your ratherrge personal guard, and my servants have a formed quite an emotional attachment to their weapons over the past few weeks.


    As the mayor of Hercrest, I make thews and I enforce them. There is no higher authority. Hand over your weapons.


    As Geralhd began politely arguing with the mayor, another group of people approached from down the street. cknail shifted his gaze to study these new arrivals. There were five of them, and they were all wearing loose green robes and had shaved heads. Like the mayors group, they were all male, and most of them wererge and armed with wooden clubs. The exception was an older man at the center of the group. Even though he was bald, he had a short white beard and was hunched over.


    As soon as the robed men arrived, the mayor turned to greet them. Ah, Obdehi! Youre finally here. Thank you foring.


    It is no problem, lord mayor. These are the outsiders? the bearded man replied as he turned to look at Geralhd. His eyes were dark and utterly without warmth, like a snakes.


    Obdehi here is the high priest of Herstcrest, and a servant of the harvest god Dev-Methi, the mayor cheerfully told Geralhd.


    Oh, Its nice to meet him. I dont think Ive ever heard of that god before, though. Geralhd replied cautiously.


    He has only recently revealed his great glory to us simple mortals, Obdehi exined with smug smile. All he demands in return for his blessing is the asional petty sacrifice.


    Oh, good Geralhd replied awkwardly. Even cknail had found that speech creepy, and he knew next to nothing about human religion. Ilisti reacted as well. The vympir leaned over and whispered something in Geralhds ear.


    When he was done, Geralhd turned to the priest. And your god can you see him, or is he more of an invisible presence?


    He is with us in spirit, always. He watches us and rewards our fervor with the bounty of the earth. From his blood springs life, Obdehi answered as he gazed at Geralhd intently.


    The mayor took this opportunity to cut in. I was just telling Geralhd here that his guards need to hand over their weapons.


    The priest nodded sagely. Ah, of course, yes.


    As cknail watched, Obdehi immediately reached up to grab a chain around his neck, and he pulled an amulet up from beneath his robe. The piece of jewelry was made from gold and had a singlerge transparent crystal set in the middle of it.


    As one hand closed around the crystal, the priest spoke up in a louder, more resonant voice. You should do as the lord mayormands and relinquish your weaponry. There is no need for such things here. You have never been safer than here among the people of feast and famine.


    It could have been a trick of the light, but cknail thought he saw a subtle light began to twinkle within the heart of the crystal. At the same time, he felt a wave of calm wash over him. cknail felt his fears and suspicions fade, but then something within his mind pushed back, hard. Immediately, cknail twitched as awareness and anger burned its way out of his skull and into the rest of his body. He had just been attacked by some sort of magic.


    Yes, I see your point Geralhd said aloud. He sounded confused and suddenly looked unsteady on his feet.


    I knew you would see reason! the mayor replied with a confident smirk as he began telling Geralhd why he needed to disarm his guards.


    Quickly, cknail nced at Ilisti and Garen, who were standing to both sides of Geralhd. Thankfully, Ilisti looked back to meet his gaze, and the vympir seemed both unaffected by the magic and very angry. There was a grim scowl on his face and his red eyes were practically glowing. Seeing that cknail was still alert, he motioned for the hobgoblin toe closer. Cautiously, as to not draw any attention, cknail slowly walked behind Ilisti.


    When he got there, Ilsiti spoke up without looking his way. That priest is some sort of wise man, and he has assaulted us with some sort of mind numbing sorcery. Thats reason enough for us to consider the rules of hospitality vited.


    So, what do you want to do? cknail whispered back.


    Violence seems like the appropriate response. Garen will take the priest. Support me when I go after the mayor, Ilisti answered.

 To Forgotten Places 8

    To Forgotten ces 8


    Geralhd gave Obdehi a friendly smile. Yes, you all seem like such nice people. There is no reason we need our weapons among friends like you!


    This was a rather weird thing for him to say, since he had just met the man, and had absolutely no reason to trust him. Not only were the priest and the mayor super creepy, but they were surrounded by armed thugs that looked almost feral.


    Just have your servants throw them on the ground between us, the mayor told Gerahld, as both he and the priest looked smug.


    Still grinning, Geralhd nodded and turned to Ilisiti. Lets do as he says.


    A groan escaped from within cknail. He understood that Geralhds normally naive mind was under the effect of magic, but this was still incredibly pathetic and obviously suicidal.


    After a moment of silence, Ilisti coughed to clear his throat and then spoke calmly and clearly. No, I dont think that is a good idea. Lets take their weapons instead.


    Before anyone had time to respond, Ilisti threw off his cape to reveal his burning red eyes and chainmail armor. Then, with startling speed, he drew his long sword and lunged toward the mayor. The vympir lord moved so quickly that he seemed to fly across the ground, but that didnt stop Garen and cknail from being right behind him. They were both incredibly fast as well.


    Caught off guard, the first few thugs went down hard in a spray of blood as Ilisti cut them apart. Meanwhile, Garen veered off to the side and rushed toward the priest. He cut open one mans belly and stabbed another through the stomach before cknail caught up. Ripping his cloak off, the hobgoblin threw it at a cultist and breathed deep. As the air filled his lungs, he reached down inside himself. There, the power of the Elixir he had drank earlier simmered in his blood. Exhaling, cknailughed madly as he burned the energy within his body and sent it out as an invisible wave of mental power. The sound of hisughter had already drawn a lot of attention, and his hobgoblin visage provided a spark of fear. That was all the magic needed. It doused the spark to ignite an magical inferno of terror within the minds of all the nearby humans.


    There were shrieks and gasps as people froze or jumped back away from the charging hobgoblin. Screams followed as the terror wormed its way deeper and began tearing thoughts apart. Using this opening, cknail drew his de and unleashed a flurry of shes at all the nearby thugs. It had been quite a while since he had let loose, and it felt wonderful! He was unstoppable andpletely free of restraint. Bloodlust boiled up from within his guts as the power of Elixir flowed through him. More thugs fell as cknail used the techniques he had spent countless hours drilling, but now discipline was the furthest thing from his mind. Hunger and fury drove him forth with abandon. He dodged a club and cut the attacker open from groin to cor.


    Ahead of him, Garen kicked away a thug that was bleeding from his neck. The terrified henchmen were no match for his superhuman strength and speed. Now, there was no one between him and Obdehi, so the vympir stepped forward to grab the priest, while cknail moved to take down thest two robed thugs.


    Pale with fear, Obdehi finally reacted. The bearded priest raised the amulet he was still clutching and grunted with effort as he unleashed its full power. As cknail dodged a hasty and off-bnce blow from a club, he felt a new sensation tear its way through his mind and body. Like a wave of intensely cold water, the mental force froze everything it touched, deadening thoughts and emotions. cknail felt his fury wither and then shatter into nothing. Light became darkness. Halfway through a swing of his sword, he suddenly let it go. The de flew off to the side as cknails arms went ck, and he came to aplete stop. Suddenly, nothing seemed important. Even thinking was pointless. He was nothing.


    Around the hobgoblin, all the remaining thugs and the mayor were hit even harder. They dropped to ground as they lost the will to stand up. Geralhd tottered for a moment and then fell as well. Simr to cknail, Ilisti and Garen stumbled and dropped their weapons. As Obdehi jumped back and dashed away down the street, the vympirs just gazed straight ahead with dazed expressions.


    Seconds ticked by without anyone moving. It was only after almost half a minute had passed that the stunnedbatants began to shake off the effects of the magic. cknail blinked and watched Ilisti slowly reach down to pick up his fallen sword.


    That may have well have been the most ufortable thing I have ever experienced, and Ive been set on fire, twice, the vympir growled.


    cknail blinked some more. My head is cold and alone. Why am I here?


    Garen shuddered and took a step forward. Ugh, Im sorry, lord. I failed to get to the wiseman in time.


    Ilisti shook his head. You did not fail me. I set you an impossible task. You didnt have the time necessary to stop him from using the amulet. A single moment was all he needed, and I nned for that. However, I didnt guess that his magic would be quite so horrible.


    Do you want me to go after him? Garen asked as Ilisti looked over all the fallen humans.


    cknail took a moment to stare at his hands. He felt hollow, although the sensation was slowly fading. He could move, but with no immediate threats around, he didnt really feel like it.


    Yes, pursue the wise-man, and take the hobgoblin with you, Ilisti replied as he walked over to the fallen mayor. I have ns for the unworthy leader of this settlement, and someone should stay with our friend Geralhd.


    Garen threw him a quick salute. At once, lord!


    The vympir knight then walked over to cknail and met his gaze. Are you alright?


    The hobgoblin stared back. Hmm, yes. Ill follow you since I dont have anything better to do.


    Sighing, Garen poked cknails shoulder. I need you to track which way he went.


    Oh, right, the hobgoblin replied as walked over to where Obdehi had been standing and sniffed the air a few times.


    The movement helped cknail shake off some more of the magical numbness, so he immediately began running after the priest. Garen followed right behind him, and they ran down the empty street. There were plenty of houses, but there wasnt a single person in sight. cknail thought he saw a terrified face peeking out of a window, but when he turned to get a better look at it, all he saw was an empty window. It was odd how empty this town was. He would have thought it was abandoned, except for how well maintained most of it was. There werent even any screams, which was very unusual for anyce cknail was visiting. Silence reigned across the whole town.


    Following the scent of the bald old priest, cknail and Garen ran through a pair of tight alleys and down three wide streets. There was a noticeableck of any sign of activity in the streets. They were clean, but cknail didnt see any colorful signs, stalls, litter, or any other evidence that people ever gathered outside. Even most the shops he saw were closed and boarded up, as if they hadnt been used in a long time.


    Putting these oddities out of mind, cknail concentrated on tracking Obdehis scent. A few minutester, he found himself on the far side of the town, next to the cliff. Houses had given way to run-down warehouses and mineshafts.


    Is he trying to hide in a tunnel? Garen guessed.


    It smells like he went to that building, cknail remarked as he pointed to the structure in question.


    It looked like some sort of temple. Its walls were made of thick stone blocks, its front was decorated by a row of smooth stone columns, and it had a long triangr roof. Yep, it looked exactly like a temple. Although, oddly enough, the entire thing had been built so that it backed up against the face of the cliff.


    Yes, that does seem like the sort of ce a false priest of a false god would run, Garen observed disdainfully.


    cknail nodded in agreement. Together, Garen and him approached the entrance to the temple. It had wide double-doors made from wood. Deciding to y it safe, cknail pulled one of them open as Garen covered him. As the door swung open, the dark interior was flooded with light, revealing a long room with a raised altar at the back. A myriad collection of rugs and nkets covered most of the floor, but there was no sign of any people.


    After pushing the other door open to get more light, cknail walked into the chamber, and sniffed irritably as the heavy reek of burnt incense assaulted his nose. Seeing no danger, Garen and him took the path through the center of the room that avoided all the mats. As they approached the altar, the scent of human blood began to edge out the smell of the incense, and the source was obvious. The altar ahead of them was made of grey stone and its top was perfectly t. It was also about the right size for a human adult toy down on, which didnt seem to be a coincidence. The entire thing was covered in dark red blood stains.


    Garen scowled in distaste as he looked the altar over. Disgusting. What does this false priest hope to aplish by doing such heinous acts?


    Sensing that Garen didnt actually want him to answer the question, cknail just shrugged. The vympir also wasnt in the best position to criticize other people about that sort of thing. cknail was pretty sure he drank peoples blood and carried dead bodies around, but cknail wasnt one to judge.


    Turning away, the hobgoblin sniffed the air again. Smelling his prey, he examined the green tapestry that hung behind the altar. As he pulled the tapestry aside, a dark natural cavern was revealed. It led deep into the rock, and judging from the wooden supports someone had built to hold the roof up, it had probably been a mine at some point.


    Do you happen to have amp? Garen asked cknail as he peeked over his shoulder.


    cknail didnt have a light on him, so the pair were forced to search for one. Eventually, Garen found one in the warehouse next door, but not before a quarter of an hour had passed.


    This passage had better not just curve around and lead back outside, Garen grumbled as he stepped into the mine shaft.


    To shield his eyes from the light of themp, cknail moved in front of him. His sword was out, and he was ready for anything as he began walking forward. Garen followed after him, and the light from themp he was holding up shone over the rough cavern walls, casting shadows everywhere.


    Ever been deep underground? cknail whispered as he snuck a nce back at the vympir.


    No, Garen replied tersely. He seemed a little on edge.


    I have. Its even more dangerous than the Green. Lots of monsters down here that sting or bite people, cknail exined as he studied the roof overhead. Sometimes critters liked to hang among the stctites.


    So, I hear, but Im more worried about the priest. This is a mineshaft, not part of the dark roads.


    As cknail and Garen walked around a curve in the passage, a light appeared up ahead of them. It was faint, but it could clearly be seen shining out of a side passage. Garen nodded at cknail, and they both quietly moved to investigate it.


    When they reached the lit opening, cknail slowly leaned over and peered into it. There was a natural cavern on the other side. It was vaguely roundish and about half the size of the temple they had just left. The light wasing from amp that had been ced on the floor, and by its illumination, cknail could see Obdehi. The priest was standing over by a table and arge cage that had been ced on the far wall of the cavern. There was a dark shape lurking at the back of the cage, but cknail couldnt make it out. Over a bit, there was also a pair of barrels next to a simple looking wooden shrine. A soft green glow could be seen escaping from behind the shrines closed doors. cknail had no idea what was going on there, but it probably wasnt good.


    Putting hismp down by the opening, Garen stepped past cknail and went inside. Moving quickly but stealthily, the vympir stalked toward the priests turned back. Shrugging, cknail crept after him. Garen was apparently in a hurry.


    After they had properly entered the room, cknail noticed some new details. Most importantly, there was arge crevice in the center of the chamber. The crack in the floor was too thin for a human to climb down into, but it was about ten feet wide. As cknail tiptoed forward, light glinted off several small shapes within it. Were those crystals?


    Just then, Garens foot hit a loose piece of rock, and sent it ttering away. With the cave so dark and full of shadows, the small rock had been next to impossible to see. However, the it was more thanrge enough to create an almost impossible to miss echo in the silent cavern. cknail tensed up and quickly nced toward their target. They hadnt even gotten halfway to him yet.


    Immediately, Obdehi spun around. There was a shocked look on his face, and there was a crystal in his hand as he held it out toward the intruders. No, Im not ready! How did you find me?


    You stink, cknail exined helpfully as he came to stop.


    Garen stopped as well. Drop the magic stone, priest. It wont save you from us.


    I dont think so. Make one more step and Ill st you into oblivion. This isnt the same power as before. It is a new gift from my mighty god, Obdehi replied reverently as he backed up toward the cages.


    Warily, cknail examined the crystal in the priests hand. It was hard to tell in the dim light, but it did look smaller and it did seem to have a purple cast to it. Wait it was new? cknail didnt see any of the usual mage equipment around. Uh oh, had this priest just picked the crystal out of the crevice in the floor? And was that dried blood he saw next to the crevice? Had thisplete idiot been pouring human blood down there? cknail wasnt a mage, but he knew there was no way that was anything like safe! It was perhaps the dumbest thing cknail had ever heard of, let alone seen.


    Carefully, cknail nudged Garen with his elbow. I think the priests new magic stone grew here in this cave. There is a shiny crack in the floor over there.


    Im not familiar with the secrets of the wisemen, what does that mean? Garen replied quietly as he looked toward the crevice.


    It means that rock is very super dangerous, but even more dangerous than that to the priest. He probably doesnt even know what it does!


    So, it could do nothing? Garen asked as he studied the priest with narrowed eyes.


    cknail grimaced. Not likely. I have seen mages work and do magic quite a few times. If he uses that thing, he will probably either melt into goo or kill us all with a funny colored explosion that smells like dewberries. I dont know which.


    Garen took a moment to contemte this. Judging by his deepening scowl, he wasnt thrilled by the implications.


    Obdehi had used the time given to him by cknail and Garens indecision to reach the cage. As they watched, he spun around and utched it, before quickly dashing away. Still holding up the mana stone, the priest hurried over to the shrine and peeked inside.


    Before cknail or Garen could go after him, there was movement from within the just opened cage, and arge creature emerged from the shadows. cknail drew his weapon as the beast stepped out the cage and looked around.


    Garen groaned in disbelief and disgust as he pulled out his sword. Is that a giant mutant rat?


    cknail grimaced. That was definitely what it looked like to him. The creature was almost the size of a donkey, and probably weighed more than a hobgoblin. It had slick ck fur and a long tail that trailed behind it like a pale worm. Its purple eyes seemed to glow in the darkness of the cavern as it focused its attention on cknail and Garen. Viciously, the rat rose up on its hindquarters and hissed at the intruders. The beasts snarl revealed two huge fangs and countless smaller needle-like teeth behind them, and now that it was standing up, cknail could see that there was an iron cor around its neck.


    Huh, thats a new record, cknail mused. Hed seen a lot ofrge rats before, especially during the goblin rat wars of his youth, but this was the biggest.


    From next to the barrels, Obdehi began yelling furiously. Spittle flew out of his mouth as he shouted. This is the herald of Dev-Methi! It will unleash the fury of the great god against you without mercy, and soon the lord himself will appear. Only doom awaits sinners and unbelievers. Those who do not bow before him will know the damning touch of famine and ruin!


    As he spoke, the vicious mutant stared at cknail and Garen with purple eyes that reflected barely contained hunger and rage, and the green glow within the shrine intensified.

 To Forgotten Places 9

    To Forgotten ces 9


    Its a giant rat, Garen growled as he eyed the creature warily.


    It may have been a rodent, but it was more thanrge enough to be dangerous, and it was no normal animal. Underestimating any sort of mutant was stupid. You never knew what they were capable of.


    It is a divine being, and your doom! Obdehi screamed fervently. What was he doing beside that glowing barrel? cknail didnt like it.


    We should kill this mutant quickly. The priest is up to something, cknail told Garen.


    Agreed, dy does not suit our purposes. Let us attack! Garen replied as he raised his weapon and stepped forward.


    The rat hissed menacingly and bared its fangs again as cknail moved to nk it. The creature didnt like being surrounded. Its hackles rose as it watched both its opponents, and its eyes shone with bestial rage.


    I wish I had a spear, Garen muttered. He seemed to be having difficulty deciding on the best way to attack the beast.


    The rat solved his problem for him. With a furious hiss it threw itself at Garen. The vympir reacted quickly, but the rat was faster than it looked. It came in under his de and barreled into him, knocking him over and disarming him. He hit the floor with a thud but wasnt stunned. Instead, he immediately began punching the creature in the face repeatedly, as he tried to throw it off. The rat reacted by biting down on one of his arms and scratching at the vympirs face with its ws. Garen screamed in pain and rage, but he kept using his free arm to punch the rat and try to knock it loose.


    Fortunately for Garen, he had an ally. cknail lunged forward and stabbed the creatures side with his sword. The de sank into flesh almost to the hilt, and the rat screeched. This meant it let go of Garens arm, so cknail took the opportunity to kick the creature as hard as he could. His boot hit with enough force to send the rat rolling away and free Garen.


    Thank you for your aid, the vympir said as he quickly picked up his sword and jumped to his feet. He didnt seem to be too badly injured. His armor had absorbed most the damage, although there were some nasty looking scratches on his face.


    I like stabbing rats anyway, cknail replied with a grin.


    The giant rat didnt stay down long. Even though cknail had given it a deep wound, it quickly scrambled back onto its feet and spun around to face its attackers. It wasrge enough that it would take more than a single attack to kill it, and it was a mutant as well. That always madebat uncertain.


    Garen nced at the hobgoblin. Quickly, lets attack it together before it has a chance to recover.


    Are you okay? cknail asked him. Hed just been mauled by a rat that probably weighed as much as he did.


    Im fine. Lets go.


    cknail nodded, and they both lunged at the rat at the same time. Their steel des swept toward the monster, but it didnt stay still. Hissing, the rat jumped sideways. Garens de sliced across the creatures side and cut through the thick ck fur, but cknails missed. As the hobgoblins de swung harmlessly past it, the rat leapt straight for him. The creature was fast, but so was cknail, and he had skill and discipline to back it up. Twisting around, the hobgoblin pulled out a dagger and rammed it into one of the rats eyes, before spinning away.


    The de sank deep into the eye socket, scraped against bone, and then prated into the soft brain matter beyond. Shrieking in pain, the rat trembled, and its back legs gave out, causing it to stumble and fall onto the stone floor of the cave. That was when Garen lunged forward and decapitated the beast with a swing of his sword. The de sliced through the air and cleaved the rats head from its body with a single strike. Thick ck blood sshed against the rocks as the body tottered over. A momentter, the head hit the ground with a wet thud.


    Should I take a trophy? cknail mused as he walked over to pull his knife out of the creatures eye. A rat tooth ne might look dashing.


    Meanwhile, Garen was already striding over toward Obdehi. The priest was still standing near the shrine. During the fight, hed continuously nced back and forth between the fighters and the shrine.


    Put the mana stone down and you we wont kill you, Garen told the priest. He was undoubtedly lying.


    At his words, Obdehi hesitated for a second. He seemed uncertain of what to do next, so he nervously nced back at the shrine. At that moment, the green glow within the shrines confines flickered and grew brighter. In response, the tension seemed to flow out of Obdehi. He reached down and carefully ced the crystal hed been holding up on the ground.


    Alright, good, Garen remarked in surprise as he slowed his approach.


    Ahead of him, Obdehi suddenly stepped over to the shrine and threw open its small ceremonial doors. This revealed the source of the light. It was a round crystal on a cushion. The priest wasted no time. Hurriedly, he grabbed it and moved to ce the chasm in the floor between him and his assants.


    Less good, Garen grunted sourly.


    Obdehi sneered at him and raised this new glowing crystal high. You may have defeated the herald, but that means nothing! You have simply prolonged your suffering, instead of epting Dev-Methis mercy, fools. The great gods power remains endless and undiminished by your pathetic struggles. You have simply earned his ire. Now, hees, and you will be devoured! Your time is nigh.


    cknail really wasnt liking where this was going, and his suspicions were confirmed a secondter when the ground beneath his feet shivered ever so slightly. Instantly, the tiny hairs on the back of cknails neck stood straight up. Every instinct he had was telling him that something bad was about to happen.


    As cknail readied himself, Obdehi tipped over a barrel, and dozens of cabbages rolled out. Um, what? Why cabbages? Never mind, they were probably just a distraction. cknail turned his attention back to the priest.


    Garen also sensed danger, although it was rather hard to miss at this point. Throwing caution to the wind, the vympir sprinted straight for Obdehi. The width of the chasm was the only thing between him and priest, and after putting on a burst of speed, Garenunched himself right over it.


    Right before Garens de coulde down and sh Obdehi, something burst out of the chasm below him and knocked him aside. The vympir was thrown against the cave wall next to the now empty shrine. He hit it with a thud and then fell down on top of the tipped over barrel and amongst the spilt cabbages. cknail winced. At least the vegetables were soft.


    Focusing, cknail starred at the thing that hade up from the crack in the floor and assaulted his ally. It was hard to see in the dark, since it seemed to reflect the green light that was radiating from the crystal Obdehi was holding. Was it some sort of limb or tail? Actually, it looked transparent, and as cknail watched, the things shape flexed and expanded in a way flesh couldnt.


    Wait, was that slime? It was. Obdehi beganughing as another wave of transparent slime surged out of the crevice and sshed onto the cave floor. Instead of going soft, it formed itself into a rigid blob. Then, light shone out of the crevice for a moment as another glimmering crystal emerged and floated into the center of the blob. It was smaller, but the crystal was definitely glowing the exact same color as the one Obdehi was holding.


    Groaning, Garen got back up and quickly retreated away from the slime. He seemed to still be a little dazed and confused. As the ooze chased him, it sucked up all the fallen cabbages and tore them apart.


    What hit me? Garen asked as he stumbled toward cknail.


    The hobgoblin spared him a nce. Looks like a slime. The priest is controlling it somehow, probably with his glowing rock.


    It looked like more and more slime was flowing up through the crevice. The blob just kept getting bigger and bigger. How big was this slime? How big did slimes get? cknail could easily imagine a truly massive slime living deep under the ground, maybe even city-sized.


    Yes! You are powerless before my god! Obdehiughed. His might is without limit, and he is as vast as the oceans! He will devour you as he devours all.


    cknail groaned. The priest was undoubtedly just making fancy noises, and the slime was probably not nearly that big, but it was better to y it safe. More and more slime was seeping up from below. Soon, it might fill the entire cavern.


    Thinking quickly, cknail sheathed his sword and pulled out his sling. After loading it, he spun the weapon and hurled a stone at Obdehi. Instead, of dodging the priest scowled disdainfully and made a dismissive gesture with his free hand. Immediately, a wall of slime rose in front of him and blocked the shot.


    Rat blood! cknail cursed as he stepped back and almost slipped in some rat blood.


    Unfortunately for him, Obdehi didnt stop there. The priest made another sweeping hand motion, and the blob of slime next to him began to change form. A thick tentacle formed and shot toward cknail. The hobgoblin sidestepped it and jumped back. As the tentacle reformed to attack again, cknail drew his sword. Just as it moved tosh out at him, cknail cut right through the tentacle with a sh of his sword. Immediately, the severed portion copsed into a pool and began to creep back toward the main blob.


    Youre just dying the inevitable! Your doom has already been decided, Obdehi yelled at them.


    Hes not wrong, Garen remarked as he stepped up beside the hobgoblin. He was looking better now. We cant remain defensive. We need to take that crystal from him. We should try a coordinated nking maneuver.


    cknail shook his head. Were not mages. Even if we take the crystal, we cant use it. The slime might still eat us.


    Then what do you suggest?


    Running away. This is a very bad ce for this fight, and the slime keeps getting bigger.


    Garen grimaced angrily. I wont run from a false priest and his pet ooze.


    Alright bye, cknail replied as he turned to leave.


    Garen grabbed the hobgoblins shoulder to hold him in ce. What if we destroy the slimes core?


    How are you going to do that? Its inside the deepest and stickiest part of the blob! cknail replied. You can go swimming if you want, but I like breathing.


    Garen scowled. Fine, we will perform a defensive withdrawal to lure the slime and the priest after us. That should cause the slime to stretch out and render its core more vulnerable.


    Sounds good, Ill withdraw first! cknail said as he tugged himself free from vympirs grip.


    At Obdehismand, a wave of slime surged toward the pair, forcing them both to stumble back. Next to the priest, the main blob of slime had shrunk as a result of the attack, although more slime was still pouring up from the ground to replenish the fluid that had just been used. Garens n just might work.


    Sighing, cknail began to slowly back away from the sludge and toward the exit. He kept his sword up defensively and one eye on Obdehi as he moved. Beside him, Garen was doing the same thing.


    Ha, look at how helpless you are before the might of my god! Obdehiughed. Soon, you will see that running will earn you naught. There is nowhere you can hide from his terrible hunger.


    As heughed, the priest began walking forward at a leisurely pace. The main blob of the slime shivered and moved to follow alongside him. It remained connected to the chasm in the floor by a thick tendril of flowing ooze.


    Pick up the speed, but try to stay in sight. Its working! Garen whispered as they approached the door.


    Nodding, cknail nced back over his shoulder as he backed through the caverns entrance. He wanted to make sure he wasnt about to walk into a wall or trip other some rubble. Garen followed him and then took up position right in the center of the door, as Balcknail picked up themp theyd left on the floor. Without its light, they wouldnt be able to see in the dark cave.


    Thats no god! Garen yelled at the priest. Its just another foul monster, and youre a mad pretender to power.


    The words of an unbeliever mean nothing to me, Obdehi shouted back. He sounded very angry for someone who supposedly didnt care about what Garen had said. Youre just like all the other doomed souls who stood in my way! They couldnt see the majesty of the god, and so their souls were consumed.


    As the priest was yelling, a trio of tentacles formed out of slime and reached for the vympir. Garen was forced to jump back and scramble out into the corridor. The tentacles tried to follow him, but the further they got from the main blob the slower they became. cknail watched from a safe distance.


    A few momentster, Obdehi stepped around the corner and emerged into the corridor. His face was red with fury as he red at cknail and Garen. Until the revtion of the great harvest god, no one gave me the proper respect, but I showed them. Everyone who ndered me or refused to bow before the divine was devoured by Dev-Meshi. He then consumed their families as payment for his blessings and the crops grew bountiful once again. Thanks to me!


    Yourepletely insane and a murderous menace to all civilization, Garen replied coldly.


    And your god smells terrible, cknail added.


    Obdehis eyes burned with rage as he red at cknail and Garen. cknail grinned back. His insult seemed to have hit home.


    Enough prattle, now you die! the priest hissed as he thrust the glowing mana crystal he was holding forward.


    Instantly, the blob of slime containing its core rolled into the corridor, and then it exploded forward. A dozen tentacles shot toward the vympir and the hobgoblin with startling speed. Surprised, cknail jumped sideways and cut down the closest slimy appendage. He could only use one arm since he was still holding themp. Unfortunately, one of the tentacles hed dodged swerved at thest second and grabbed his leg. It tugged him off his feet, but as cknail fell, he managed to cut himself loose with a slice of his sword. The impact of the fall made the light of themp flicker, but it didnt go out.


    At the same time, Garen was back up, but he quickly noticed the hobgoblins plight. He dashed forward and unleashed a flurry of attacks against the tentacles that were now turning to grab cknail. Slime sshed against the floor as his de cut through the transparent tendrils.


    Your god doesnt seem like much to me. Itll have to do better than a few tiny tentacles if it wants to get us, Garen remarked loudly as cknail climbed back to his feet.


    Just die already, you heathen maggots! Obdehi screamed.


    As if in response to his anger, the main body of the slime spasmed for a moment, and then a wave of slime exploded out from it. The churning surge of ooze filled half the confine of the tunnel as it rolled forward with startling force. It was more thanrge enough to drown both cknail and Garen.


    Nows your chance. Go! Garen yelled urgently to cknail as he pointed to the creatures core.


    Hesitating, cknail threw the vympir an annoyed look. Why was he the one that had to charge in there? It was Garens n! Before he could point this out though, the wave of slime threatened to m into him.


    Growling in displeasure, cknail burned some of the Elixir in his blood and put themp down. As the power red up within him, he jumped up and over a corner of the iing wall of slime. Flipping through the air, hended safely atop a rock on the other side of the wave. As soon as hed regained his bnce, cknail went down into a sprinters crouch and eyed his target. Next to the now startled - but still red-faced  Obdehi, the slimes main body had shrunken noticeably in size. The blob of protective ooze around its core was much thinner now. The entire thing was only about three feet tall.


    Much of the floor around cknail was covered by ooze, and it quickly began to churn in response to his presence. However, the hobgoblin didnt give it time to take shape. Heunched himself forward using the nt of rock beneath his feet as a block. Sprinting with all his might, and with a hungry grin on his face, cknail charged straight for Obdehi.


    The priest yelped in fear and stumbled backward, which caused him to fall on his ass. However, the slime reacted as well. Three new tentacles shot out of the blob to block cknails charge. That was fine with the hobgoblin, though. Kicking off another rock, he swerved out of the way of the tentacles and right toward the blob itself. As he zoomed toward it, he held his sword out like a spear.


    No! Obdehi screamed as the tip of cknails sword prated the ooze and hit the glowing core within.


    The impact of the blow shattered the crystal. Its light went out as it fragmented into over a dozen pieces. Then, cknails body hit the slime. There was a loud smacking noise as it absorbed the momentum of his charge, and he sank several inches into it beforeing to stop. Thankfully, with the core dead, the slime quickly began dissolving around the hobgoblin and he was easily able to free himself.


    Shaking himself clean, which threw slime in every direction, cknail got up and turned to look at Obdehi. I just killed your god, and now its your turn."

 To Forgotten Places 10

    To Forgotten ces 10


    As cknail grinned maliciously and pulled his sword out of the dissolving slime, Obdehis face wentpletely pale from fear. The priest was still sitting on the ground, but he quickly jumped up and bolted deeper into the mine. Instead of giving chase, cknail let him go. He was much faster than his prey, and it wasnt like the priest could go anywhere. The passage hed taken waspletely dark, and Obdehi didnt have amp on him. The priest had left his in the side chamber.


    Stretching to work out some sore muscles, cknail turned to Garen. You dont want him alive or anything dumb like that, do you?


    Garen shook his head. No, hes too dangerous to let live, and we already have the mayor. Hurry up and get him before he falls down a shaft or something. I want to bring my lord the false priests head.


    Sounds like fun, cknail replied as he walked back to grab themp hed put down earlier.


    Pacing himself, cknail then began jogging down the tunnel, and Garen followed him. As a hobgoblin, he had much better low light vision than a human. Also, he had amp, so he was able to avoid obstacles and make his way through the dark at a much faster pace than the priest. Obdehi was not so lucky. From up ahead, there was a screech and the sound of rolling rubble as the priest tripped and hurt himself in the dark.


    A few secondster, the light cknail was carrying through the tunnel revealed Obdehi. He was leaning up against a wall, with one of his feet raised awkwardly as if hed hurt it. He was also shielding his eyes from the brilliance of cknailsmp, so his face was hard to see.


    Foul creature, I will Obdehi began to shriek as the hobgoblin approached. However, his speech was cut off when cknail promptly stabbed him in the stomach.


    Ugh, no! the priest gasped as the de sank into his guts.


    Sighing in irritation, cknail stabbed him several more times until he stopped making stupid noises andy still. Even for a human, Obdehi had talked way too much. cknail wasnt even a little interested in listening to him anymore. Even the pained squeaks he was making were annoying.


    When Obdehi was most definitely dead, cknail turned to Garen, who had just walked up beside him. If you want his head, you will have to cut it off and carry it.


    Sighing, Garen went to work, and cknail took a few steps back. He didnt want to get any more stter on his clothes. The ground around Obdehis corpse was already soaked in blood.


    The streets were still empty when the pair emerged from the temple, but there was an expectant hush over Herstcrest as they walked back over to the front gate. asionally, cknail saw shes of movement at windows or in alleys. It seemed the townspeople were aware that something important was going on, even if they were afraid to show themselves.


    There you are! Ilisti called when he caught sight of them. I was beginning to wonder if youd gotten lost or if something unexpected had happened to you.


    The vympir noble was still standing in the middle of the square before the main gate of Herstcrest, and the bodies of all the fallen thugs littered the ground around him. Beside Ilisti, cowered the mayor. He looked terrified out of his mind, but didnt dare run, even though Ilisiti was basically ignoring him. The wagon was also still there, however Geralhd was nowhere to be seen, and the gates of Herstcrest were now wide open.


    It took us a while because we had to kill a god, cknail told the vympir.


    A wicked grin appeared on Ilistis face. He looked like he was having fun. And I missed it? There goes the opportunity of a lifetime.


    It was a false god, but still a rather noteworthy battle, Garen replied.


    The priest is dead, though? Ilisiti asked him.


    Garen raised the blood-soaked shirt he was using to carry Obdehis severed head. Without a doubt. Henceforth, he will not trouble you or interfere with your ns, lord.


    Good. I have been interrogating Felsisio, here, Ilisti said as he nodded toward the trembling mayor. It seems the priest was the real power in this ce. However, he was also quite insane, and thus the mayor ran everything.


    cknail didnt care too much about that, but he did have one question. Wheres Geralhd?


    When hed recovered from the sorcery the priest ced him under, I sent him to go summon my troops, Ilisti exined. He should be back momentarily.


    As Garen reported to his master about the details of what had happened, cknail listened in and corrected the vympir when he failed to adequately emphasize cknails own contributions. He was the one that had actually killed the huge slime god, after all. Garen had just sort of helped.


    However, before Garen could quite finish his tale, Geralhd and the others arrived. The formation of western soldiers led the way, while Geralhd and others followed them. At the very back came the hobgoblins. They stayed behind the others and out of sight as much as possible.


    When they got inside the town, some of the people from Shelter looked shocked to see the bodies of the thugs, but Geralhd quickly began exining what had happened.


    Ah, good. Now, we can begin, Ilisti remarked cheerfully when his guard had joined him.


    What are you going to do? cknail asked him.


    With the help of the mayor, I n on introducing myself to the good people of this town in a way appropriate to someone of my standing.


    Youre going to step on them? cknail asked in confusion.


    Turning away, Ilisti ignored the hobgoblin. Instead, he looked down at the mayor and gave the man a cold smile. You have a way of calling your people to gather, do you not?


    The mayor gulped. Yes, of course, I do.


    Then, please do so. I wish to address the people of this ce, so I will send some men to escort you while you attend to my will, the vympir exined.


    Since he had little in the way of choices, the mayor nodded in agreement as Ilisti handed him off to Garen. He was then escorted deeper into the town and out of sight.


    There wasnt much for cknail to do at that point but wait around, since wandering around the town would probably be a bad idea. With nothing better to do, he walked over to Geralhd.


    Do you have any snacks? he asked the man.


    Theres a lot of food loaded up into the cart, remember? Gehd replied distractedly. He was surrounded by the people of Shelter, who were still upset at how their visit to Herstcrest was going so far.


    Oh, right, cknail acknowledged before turning around and heading toward the cart.


    However, before he got there, some of his hobgoblin minions intercepted him. They quickly skulked out from behind their human allies and moved out in front of the cart. Being in such an obviously human ce made them nervous.


    Boss, its good to see that you are safe. What is it you want us to do now? Herah asked him.


    Are we going to loot anything? You conquered this ce, so that means we get to loot it! another hobgoblin added.


    cknail shook his head. No, I traded this ce to Ilisti, so no looting. There will be a victory feast, though.


    This seemed to appease most of the hobgoblins. Given the opportunity to loot, they would probably have mostly taken food, and wasnt like any of them had done any fighting. That had all been cknail.


    Just stay out of trouble. Stick with our allies and try not to scare anyone. The humans here look fragile, cknail told them.


    While the other hobgoblins were thinking this over, Ferrar stepped forward and met cknails eyes. Dont forget the iron man, boss. I need you to find one for me, so I can make shiny things for you.


    Right, sure, cknail replied as he scooted around his minions and over to the wagon.


    He was only distracted from his rummaging through the cart for the tastiest bits of food when some of the people of Herstcrest began to arrive in the za. All of them came in small groups that seemed to huddle nervously together. They studied all the visitors with poorly concealed fear, and they kept their distance from them. It seemed like they were here only because something even more frightening prevented them from leaving.


    Curious, cknail turned to study the townsfolk. Both men and women wore simple grey homespun clothes, that looked as faded as everything else in the town. Contrary to his expectations, none of them were fat, despite beingzy town humans. In fact, some of them looked slim even from the perspective of a hobgoblin.


    The crowd grewrger as more folk arrived. Noticeably, almost all of the peoples eyes looked dull and hollow, as if they had been worn down somehow. cknail frowned. These townsfolk almost seemed inhuman to him. Their behavior was all wrong. Even the way they held themselves was too meek and fragile. Looking the people over, cknail saw a disturbingck of curiosity and initiative. It was like they were damaged or broken. They seemed to have no ability to imagine anything but the same grinding repetitive fear and pain, even when confronted with a novel situation such as this. Weird.


    After a few more minutes had passed, the group of armsmen Ilisti had sent to escort the mayor returned with him. There was anotherrge group of townsfolk following them meekly.


    This should be enough people. Im told the town isnt quite as popted as it used to be, Ilisti remarked when the mayor reached his side.


    Should we set up a perimeter? Garen asked him.


    Ilisti shook his head. I dont believe that will be necessary. Ive never seen a people so downtrodden. I rather doubt they could muster the courage to do violence, or that they would be much of a threat.


    Without wasting anymore time, the vympir noble grabbed the mayors shoulder and dragged him over to the middle of za. There was a quite hush as everyone watched. At the center of the za, Ilisti could be seen by everyone.


    You probably recognize this man as your mayor, the vympir noble exined as he lifted the surprised man into the air using one arm. It was an impressive feat of strength, and in his dark armor, Ilistis muscr figure looked powerful and dangerous.


    Today, his reign over this ce has ended. He attempted to kill me and my allies just so that he could rob us of a few possessions, and this pathetic act led me to take up arms against him. He was not alone in this egregious assault. He was aided by a priest, a servant of a false god.


    As Ilisti pronounced thosest few words, somehow the silence grew deeper. The entire crowd was paying apt attention to him now.


    The vympir paused dramatically for a moment before continuing, and lowered the mayor. This priest is dead, and so is false god he pretended to serve. Bothy dead and can no longer harm you!


    As Ilisti finished speaking, Garen unveiled the severed head he was holding and tossed it forward. Itnded on an empty patch of ground where almost everyone could see it. Instantly, here were gaps of surprise and disbelief from the crowd. They began to whisper among themselves. Their reactions varied greatly. Some looked hopeful, others angry, and many seemed skeptical. There were even a few that didnt appear to care. They stared ahead with empty eyes.


    Ilisti didnt wait for them to quiet. His booming voice drowned them out as he resumed speaking. As of now, Imying im to this domain. My troops are unchallenged and haveplete control of the wall. Know that your lives will improve greatly under my authority. You will not need to fear capricious deities, hungry beasts, or famines brought on by ipetence. I will bring change to this domain, but I will also bring prosperity and restore some connection to the outside world. No longer shall you wither away in the Green!


    Im not sure we should be handing this ce over to Ilisti, Gehd remarked nervously as he listened to the speech.


    cknail turned to give the man a dry stare. We? You can try to stop him if you want.


    While theyd been talking, Khita had wandered over, and she chose this moment to join the conversation. Ilisti conquered the ce, so its rightfully his, unless you think you can take it from him. Hmm, maybe I should go exploring and find an old vige to conquer for myself. There must be some more out there in the Green.


    As Khita and Gehd began to argue, cknail sighed and turned away. He felt no need to deal with their stupidity.


    After a few more minutes of yelling, Ilisti wrapped up his speech. By this time, the crowd had grown far more energetic. They were talking animatedly amongst themselves now, even if fear was still the prevailing emotion.


    Grinning confidently to himself, the vympir let go of the mayor. Take me to your abode. I will need a residence in my new domain, and my allies will need somewhere to rest while they recover from the journey.


    The mayor quickly nodded and began leading Ilisti and his guard deeper into the town. Since hed been invited, sort of, cknail went along as well, and everyone else followed. There was no point hanging around in the square.


    It didnt take them long to arrive at the mayors soon to be former home. It was a mansion located among the otherrge dwellings in the center of Herstcrest, and it was by far thergest of all of them. Interestingly, many of therger houses they had passed were among the worse maintained and several were obviously abandoned.


    The mayors mansion was built from grey stone and mortar. It was a rectangr building with a steep roof covered in brown tiles. Three chimneys and several windows with triangr peaks stuck out of the roof. It was surrounded by arge yard that was in turn surrounded by a low stone fence. In a few ces, ivy grey up from the ground to cover sections of the mansions walls.


    Hmm, its not very defensible, but it will have to do. It is unlikely I will be able to get a proper keep built anytime soon. Ilisti remarked as he stepped past the fence and onto the paved path that led from the road to the door.


    For the next hour and a half, Ilisti and a few others toured the mansion. cknail and Geralhd were among the invited, along with Khita. The home had a dozen bedrooms, a huge kitchen, and a grand hall for eating and entertaining guests. At the end of the tour,knail had to admit that Ilisitis new home was a lot more impressive than his cave.


    The hobgoblin scratched his nose as he studied a tapestry that hung in a hall. It portrayed a duel between two knights in te-mail, but cknail wasnt really focused on it. He was thinking about the best way to get a fancy new mansion. Could his minions build one? If not, was there someone he could kidnap?


    Before cknail could think up an answer to his conundrum, Ilisti called for everyone to join him in the main hall. It was short walk there for cknail, and once inside he took a seat at the long table that dominated the center of the room. Almost everyone else was already there, but it took Garen a few minutes to arrive. Hed been sent to round up and interview all the mayors old servants and shove the mayor somewhere he couldnt get up to trouble.


    Firstly, I wish to thank everyone in this room, Ilisti announced as he walked over to stand behind the chair at the far end of table. There was a pleased grin on his face that contrasted greatly with his normal self-control.


    Youre wee, cknail replied. That was the polite thing for people to do.


    Ilisti nodded at the hobgoblin. Your contributions, in particr, are worthy of note. You have fulfilled your end of our bargain with remarkable speed, and I am greatly pleased. So, I wish to grant you a boon.


    That means he wants to give you a gift, Geralhd whispered helpfully in the hobgoblins ear.


    You already promised to help me kill Werrick, cknail mused aloud as he considered his options.


    This first thing that popped into his mind was asking for all the cheese in the town, but that wouldnt be very practical. What he really wanted right now was a mansion, but those werent very easy to carry around. Could he ask for something to help him build one? It was Ferrar that would probably know about that sort of thing. Hed made all the bricks and furnaces back at the goblin settlement. Wait, hadnt Ferrar wanted something?


    I would like to borrow someone who knows about melting iron rocks, cknail announced.


    Ilisti gave the hobgoblin a puzzled look. That is a rather unusual request, and not at all what I was expecting.


    cknail shrugged. I promised one of my minions that I would find someone to teach him. Hes always looking for new things to set on fire.


    Well, Im sure we can spare you a smelter, if that is indeed what you are asking for. This settlement once operated arge mine, so there is probably more than few around, even though the ce has fallen on hard times.


    So, you and Garen are going to stay here from now on? Geralhd asked the vympir. He hadnt been invited to some of the prior strategy meetings.


    Yes, I think these people need me, Ilisti exined. Theirck of proper authority has obviouslye close to ruining them.


    Well, you certainly cant be worse than their old leaders, Geralhd admitted reluctantly. What will you do here?


    There is a lot that needs done, urgently so, Ilisti replied. I have no ns to reopen the mines until I get the agricultural situation in hand, which will probably take a while. There is clearly starvation within the town. I may even have to order some of my guard to help tend the fields. They wont like that, but they will do as Imand.


    And after that?


    Ilisti shrugged. Once I have things organized and under control here, I will send Garen back West to recruit some settlers from my oldnds. There are plenty of vacant homes for them to take.


    What about Werrick? cknail asked suspiciously. The vympir had promised to help him.


    Ilisti looked toward the hobgoblin and nodded. My swords are yours should you call for them, and from what I have heard of the man named Werrick, Im willing to bet that we will be hearing from him soon.

 Interlude; Finding the Flames

    Interlude; Finding the mes


    As Ferrar stepped into the abandoned workshop, the light of hismp pushed back the darkness. However, the building hed just entered was full of heavy equipment that cast a host of shadows. Ferrar grunted and walked further in. His movements threw up small clouds of dust that had been sitting on the floor. Despite the fact that Herstcrest was still upied by humans, it seemed like no one had entered this particr building in years. It was one of the warehouses located at the back of the town near the mines.


    Yet, even if the humans had abandoned it, this ce had drawn Ferrars attention. It contained so many secrets and wonders. The hobgoblin walked up to a dusty old furnace and ran his fingers over the iron. The metal was colder than the air and rough. Among the dust and darkness, the furnace didnt seem like anything special, but to Ferrar it was a marvel. Once, fires hotter than any hed ever cultivated had burned brightly within it. Ferrar wanted to see those mes dance and feel their heat on his skin. How beautiful would their golden light be? He needed to know how these machines worked and how it to make his own. Being so ignorant of something humans took for granted frustrated him.


    Moving on, Ferrar walked over to pile of coal that was stacked to next to a wall. He had learned of this type of rock from the humans. It looked ck and like it had already been touched by mes, but it still burned very brightly. Ferrar consider licking the coal for moment, but decided against it. Instead, he walked over to a nearby table.


    There were a dozen steel rods lying on the table. Ferrar brushed some of the dust off them and examined the metal beneath. It shone as it reflected back the light from hismp, almost as if the fire that had forged it was still locked somewhere in the metal. Such intense heat and skill were needed to make even these simple rods. The power of fire was without limit, but it was almost impossible to tame.


    After a few more moments of reflection, the hobgoblin walked over to the nearest wall. The stones that made up the base of the wall were held in ce by grey mortar. Even they had been shaped by the touch of mes. That didnt surprise Ferrar, quite the opposite. He knew that everything of value was forged in fire at some point, even if it was just by the weak light of the sun. Certainly, it was the inner fire that burned within Ferar that drove him forward in his endless quest for power.


    Ferrar spent the next few minutes wandering around the inside of the workshop. There was a lot of metal equipment inside. The hobgoblin couldnt figure out what most of it was for, but here and there he saw hints of secret knowledge. What had this ce been like back when it had been in operation? Had every furnace contained a shining ze? It must have been awesome to behold.


    Turning away, Ferrar walked back outside. It was time for him to meet up with some of his chieftains human allies, and he didnt want to bete. His chieftain had gone to a lot of trouble to arrange this meeting.


    The streets of Herstcrest were still almostpletely empty, even after Ilisti had taken the ce over. His soldiers could asionally be seen moving about in small patrols, but the citizens of the town were still staying indoors and almost never came out unless ordered to. The only exceptions were the work parties that went to tend the fields every morning and came back every afternoon, but even they were silent and keptpletely to themselves.


    It didnt take long for Ferrar to make his way through the empty streets and arrive at his destination, arge house next to Ilistis mansion. The vympir noble had began turning it into a temporary barracks for his troops. There were two of them guarding the front door as Ferrar approached.


    Youre the hob we were told to expect? one of the guard asked him.


    That was sort of a stupid question, but Ferrar nodded in acknowledgement. Yes, Im here to see the humans you have found for me.


    Right, then head inside and take a left. There will be a door down the hallway to your right. The workmen are waiting for you there, the guard replied.


    The man had tried to sound indifferent, but the hobgoblins presence clearly made him both curious and nervous. Ferrar found Ilistis soldiers to be interesting. They were much less willful and curious than any humans hed encountered before, but their inner fire still burned brightly, unlike the people of Herstcrest.


    Walking past the humans, Ferrar entered the building and did as hed been instructed. He took a left turn and found the right door. On the other side of it was arge sitting room and half a dozen humans. One of the men was another of Ilistis guards, but the others were all residents of Herstcrest. They were easy to tell apart because of the empty look in their eyes and because they all flinched as he entered the room. They werent used to seeing hobgoblins, but they were used to being afraid.


    The guard walked over to Ferrar. My lord promised you a craftsman and these are the best we could find. We had our patrols go house to house and ask around for workers that had the skills you requested.


    So, they can melt iron so that you can make things from it? Ferrar asked him. That was the important thing. Hed been told you had to smelt iron before you could work it.


    The guard shrugged. Probably, ask them. Just let me introduce you first. These are a cowardly lot.


    The arms-man then turned to face the nervous-looking townsfolk who were standing against the far wall. You all know why you are here but let me remind you. My lord, the new master of this town, is looking for someone to help our important ally here. As per the agreement, you will not be harmed, and if chosen for this task you will receive a substantial reward to be paid out to your family immediately.


    The gathered craftsman began muttering amongst themselves as Ferrar studied them. Like almost all the residents of Herstcrest, they were skinny and frail looking humans. Most of them wore in grey clothes and had unkempt beards. Although they looked unsure about the deal, Ilisti had apparently offered them something of value, because none of them left.


    Can all of you do what was asked for? Ferrar questioned them.


    Being addressed directly by the hobgoblin startled the craftsman. They were silent for a few moments, until a man with a particrly long beard spoke up. We werent given too many details, but from what I can tell, you have some iron ore youd like to smelt into workable ore?


    Yes, I know you need to use fire, but what I try doesnt work.


    The bearded man grunted sourly and stared at the hobgoblin. So, Im guessing you dont have ess to a real bloomery like what we have here. What is your goblin home like? And what sort of resources are you working with?


    Ferrar frowned. That was aplicated question. I have a few kilns to make lots pots and bricks, and Im using the bricks to make houses.


    Hmm, thats better than nothing. I know of an old technique for purifying raw iron ore that doesnt need much more than that. Its not efficient but I should be able to get it working.


    Another craftsman shook his head. I cant do anything without real equipment. Count me out.


    Looking at the hobgoblin with suspicion, a third craftsman spoke up. What are you going to be using this iron for?


    Ferrar shrugged. I just like ying with fire, but the boss wants to make arrowheads for hunting, axes for chopping down trees, and some other stuff too. I try to keep the boss happy, so that he lets me burn more things.


    The first man to volunteer sighed. Right. Well, I dont care what youre using the iron for. I just want to leave this ce and to take my daughter with me. I hear Shelter is still around and a much better ce to live these days.


    You have inner fire. I like that, Ferrar remarked as he met the mans eyes. He didnt seem quite as numb as most the other people from Herstcrest.


    Turning away, Ferrar studied the other craftsmen. None of them had the same energy inside them. Alright, I choose you. You wille with us back to our settlement and show me how to make fire so hot it can harden iron and melt it.


    The man nodded, and none of the others seemed all that upset about losing out. Ferrar just grinned as he began to n. Now, he was one step closer to building a workshop to match any the humans had ever built. Soon, he would catch a new, deeper, glimpse of the secret truth hidden within the mes. All he had to do was burn the world down.

 Will of Iron 1

    Will of Iron 1


    cknail and the others stayed in Herstcrest for two days. They needed time to rest and recuperate after their journey through the uncharted Green, and no one was in a huge rush to get back to Shelter anyway. Herstcrest wasnt a great ce to visit. The walled towns streets were still creepy and depressing, but it was a novel ce to explore, and roaming the streets was safer than walking through the Green, probably. The people from Shelter were particrly curious, since some of them had never visited another town or city before. Ha, what a bunch of rubes. cknail himself had visited five cities and towns. That was a lot, probably.


    Before departing Herstcrest, cknails party got a few things done. The hobgoblins got the feast theyd been promised, although since there was a local shortage, the fare wasnt all that great and had mostlye from the supplies theyd brought. cknail was able to eat his fill, though. The hobgoblins also managed to find themselves a fair pile of loot, even if it was mostly junk no one else wanted. Ferrar also used this time to meet up with some human craftsman and pick out one to travel back with them. The fire obsessed hobgoblin really wanted someone to learn smelting from. Thankfully, Ilisti was quite generous about rewarding the hobgoblins for their help, and he gave them everything they asked for. He did have one request, though.


    Since he was facing a food shortage, the vympr wanted some hobgoblin hunters to bring in game for him, and he was willing to pay them for it. Once the food from the wagon ran out, Hesrtcrest would start starving again. cknail readily agreed. It cost him nothing, and he was always looking to put some of hiszy minions to work. He had too many of them, and he didnt like it when they hung around his base and ate up his food.


    On the day of departure, cknail led his minions and allies through the gates of Herstcrest and out into the fields around the town. It was early in the morning and the wagon creaked as it rolled over the packed dirt path. The travelers had unloaded almost all the food that theyd brought, but theyd refilled the wagon with loot and equipment. cknail and Ferrar had scooped up all the axes and metal tools they could find, which was a lot. Herstcrest had plenty of steel shovels and simr thingsying around inside its many abandoned warehouses.


    Behind cknail, walked the hobgoblins that werent out scouting ahead of the main party. Geralhd and most of the humans from Shelter were walking around the wagon, while Khita and her followers took up the rear. Since the vympirs and their troops had remained behind, the party was much smaller now. The only new additions were the craftsman Ferrar had chosen and the small female hed brought with him. Briefly, cknail wondered why Ferrar had chosen this particr human. His nd looks didnt make him stand out from everyone else in Herstcrest, but then again Ferrar was weird. Hed probably picked the man based on whispers from the fire or something.


    Soon after theyd entered the forest, they approached the dark woods that the spiders had taken over, and they had to leave the old overgrown road and head off into the forest. Luckily, they could just follow the path they had made to get to Herstcrest in the first ce. Moving through the Green was slow, especially for the wagon, but they knew which way they had to go and whaty before them.


    Soon, they passed close to the location of the goblin camp that cknail had conquered and upied. Since Scamp and a few other minions were still there, cknail took some hobgoblins along and went to check on him. It was only a short walk through the forest, so they left the others with the wagon.


    When cknail got there, he immediately noticed that the camp had undergone some changes. A swathe of small trees and bushes had been cleared around the edge of the camp, and a short stretch of wall had already been built on one side. The patches of herbs appeared unchanged, though. That was good. cknail had been a little worried about Scamp idently killing them all somehow. Knowing Scamp, it wasnt impossible that his mere presence might have caused all the nts to wither down to nothing.


    The nearby goblins scattered as cknail and his minions walked into the clearing. One of the hobgoblins left behind was on the far edge of the camp, and he began walking over to greet cknail. Meanwhile, several of the feral goblins yelped loudly in excitement, which caused a sleepy looking Scamp to crawl out of one of the huts. He yawned as he got up and tried to figure out what was going on.


    cknail walked right over to Scamp, stopped in front of him, and then slugged the surprised hobgoblin right in the face. Scamp yelped in pain and fell over onto his ass. This both amused and satisfied cknail, who grinned down at his minion.


    Good job! Keep up the good work, cknail told Scamp. It was important to make sure everyone remembered who the real boss was, but also to give them positive reinforcement.


    Um, thanks? Scamp replied as he rubbed his sore nose and climbed back to his feet. He didnt sound too grateful for the praise.


    Im just stopping by to see how you are doing. Where is the female hobgoblin? cknail asked.


    Scamp pointed back toward the hut that hed just emerged from. Shes still in there.


    Ah, try to get at least some work done, cknail replied with a frown.


    Scamp smiled proudly. Of course, Im working super hard, boss! Soon, Ill have the wall done, just like you asked.


    cknail rolled his eyes in disbelief. He doubted the wall would beplete anytime soon. It was a big project, and he knew Scamp too well to believe that hed personally gotten his hands dirty working on it. Scamp was azy idiot, which was what made him a great sub-leader. He wasnt a threat.


    After a brief conversation to get the other hobgoblin caught up, cknail had his minions drop off a bunch of the tools theyd been carrying. Hed brought some axes and shovels to help the hobgoblins here build the wall. Steel axes made chopping down trees and cutting stakes much easier. Stone tools broke very easily so they had to be constantly repaired, which took time.


    Scamp seemed fine with staying here now, but some of the other hobgoblins wanted to leave, so cknail switched a few of them around with the hobgoblins hed brought. Ilisti had told him that moving his minions around a lot was an important part of keeping them loyal, and cknail could see why. It prevented them from getting toofortable and forming cliques. ns for keeping his hobgoblins loyal had been on cknails mind a lottely.


    Ill send some more workers from the main camp soon. Just keep building the wall and taking care of the herbs, cknail told Scamp before heading back into the forest. He didnt want to leave the humans waiting too long, lest they get into trouble.


    Fortunately, when the hobgoblins got back to the wagon, everyone was still in one piece and nothing important had happened. cknail took a moment to speak to Geralhd and reassure him, and then they resumed their journey. However, when they got to the others side of the dark woods and reached the overgrown road again, cknail called for a stop and started rummaging through the wagon for some specific items hed packed.


    What are you doing? There is nothing here but empty forest and the same endless greenery, Geralhd asked as he walked over to cknails side. There was a confused frown on his face.


    cknail pulled out a torch and arge sk of oil. Just stay here. I need to go into the dark woods for a while, but be prepared to move quickly when I get back.


    How long are you going to be? Geralhd asked with obvious concern.


    Not long. I will be running back, cknail replied as he looked over his minions.


    Geralhd tried to ask him a few more question, but cknail didnt answer. Instead, he selected two minions toe help him.


    You will probably want to see this up close, cknail told Ferrar.


    The other hobgoblin he selected was Herah. She followed him around everywhere anyway, and probably would attempt to sneak after him even if he tried to leave her behind. Hed caught her stalking him a few times. She clearly had way too much free time. With those two minions in tow, cknail started walking back down the overgrown road and toward shadowy trees that hung over it.


    I dont like this ce. It makes the back of my neck tingle, Herah remarked as she looked up into the dark treetops. Any number of dangerous things could have been hiding up above them in the branches.


    Ya, its a bad ce to visit, cknail replied as he held his torch up and strode forward. The flickering mes pushed back the darkness but didnt dispel it. In gloomy silence, the dark haze hovered around them. Shadows shifted and danced as the light of the torch hit the twisted trees.


    Then why are we here? Herah asked.


    It was Ferrar that answered her. Thats obvious. Were going to burn it all down!


    What? Herah eximed as she turned to look at him.


    Ferrar shrugged and grinned excitedly. Thats why he brought me, to burn things. This ce is bad, but fire will fix that. Also, look at all this dry wood. Anyone who saw it would want to burn it all down.


    Herah gave Ferrar a doubtful look. She seemed concerned, and she turned to look at cknail. He just nodded in agreement though, which didnt reassure her at all.


    The forest around them had grown even darker. The trees stretched up high into the sky, creating a stifling sea of foliage above their heads that blocked out all the light of the sun. Closer to the ground, twisted white branches jutted out from the sides of pale trees. Some of trees were dead and dried out, like Ferrar had pointed out, but many others still had healthy canopies up above.


    As he walked and held his torch high, cknail carefully studied the twisting branches that hung low to the ground. Was that glint of light as something reflected the illumination from the torch? Yes, it was. cknail instantly stopped walking.


    As Herah and Ferrar stumbled to a stop behind him, he turned to look at the female hobgoblin. Walk over to that tree.


    Um, why? Herah asked skeptically. The dark woods clearly made her nervous.


    cknail gave her his best reassuring smile. Thats an order, but dont worry. Ill protect you if anything happens.


    Herah hesitated but did as she was told. She began to carefully walk toward the tree as she scanned the surroundings for any sign of danger. She didnt see any, but as she neared the pale trunk of the tree, something moved up above in the shadows. Then, there was the crack of a branch as arge blurry shape hurtled down at her from one of the branches overhead. It zoomed toward her exposed back with hungry purpose.


    Reacting too slowly, Herah tried to spin around to face the threat. The shape was less than a foot from her head when cknail swatted it aside with a two-handed swing of his sword. There was aloud crack as the t of his de smashed the leaping spider and knocked it away from Herah. Instead, it hit the ground and bounced. Herah squeaked in fear and jumped back.


    The huge grey spider hissed angrily as it jumped back onto its feet. It immediately tried to scuttle away, but while it was still stunned, cknail stepped forward and used the tip of his de to impale its abdomen. The hairy grey spider hissed and squirmed, but it was stuck now. Dark fluid seeped out of the wound around the de for a few seconds, and then it went still.


    What is that? Herah shrieked fearfully.


    Its a spider, cknail replied as he removed his de and bent down to examine his catch. The arachnid was easily two feet across.


    Is that why you wanted me to go to the tree?


    cknail hesitated. It was probably a good idea to not upset Herah any further. Um, yes. Good job. You really helped me catch it.


    Herah wasnt mollified. She looked outraged. It could have killed me!


    No, I was protecting you, and their bite isnt deadly. They just paralyze you and wrap you up forter. You were safe with me here, cknail told her as he picked the dead spider up. He wanted to show it to everyone. The stupid humans hadnt believed him when hed described them.


    Can we burn things now? Ferrar interjected impatiently.


    Sure, cknail replied.


    Herah didnt look mad anymore. If anything, she looked smug. cknails words had apparently calmed her down. She seemed to like the idea that hed protected her, so he handed her the dead spider. Startled, she took it and then stared at it as if unsure of what had just happened.


    Meanwhile, cknail took out his sk of oil and dumped its contents on the base of a dead tree. Hed asked Ilisti what the best way to burn out the spiders was, and the vympir had suggested this route. When the sk was empty, cknail lit it using his torch. The slick oil immediately burst into mes, and the fire quickly began to spread past the oil and onto the dry wood.


    We should run now, cknail said as he stepped back away from the mes and smoke.


    Ferrar grinned joyfully and his eyes reflected the red light of the burning tree. He nodded absently at cknals words, but he made no move to leave, so cknail grabbed his shoulder and pulled him away. Herah followed them with the spider still in hand. She still seemed to have no idea what was going on. As they retreated back the way theyde, there was a loud crack and shower of sparks sprayed in their direction, causing everyone to pick up speed.


    It didnt take them long to reach the edge of the dark woods, but before leaving the shadows, cknail nced back. Behind him, he saw the previously gloomy forest glowing with a sinister orange light. The fire was spreading quickly.


    The hogoblins hurried run drew a lot of attention when they reached the wagon. Everyone looked in their direction, and most the people looked wary.


    Holy gods. Thats an incrediblyrge spider, Geralhd remarked in surprise as he saw what Herah was carrying. There were mutters of agreement from most the other humans.


    Yep, I caught it myself, but we should get moving. Right now, cknail told him.


    Geralhd looked concerned. Why? Youre not being chased by a swarm of giant arachnid, are you?


    Dont be silly. I set the forest on fire, cknail exined.


    What? Why would you do that, Geralhd asked in shock.


    Ilisti told me to, and he also said the mes shouldnt spread out of the dark woods, but we should probably keep moving just to be safe.


    Herah dumped the dead spider on the wagon, as the party began moving again. cknail was pretty sure he could smell smoke on the wind now.


    I still dont understand why you wanted to burn down the forest, Geralhd told cknail as they jogged side-by-side. They creaking of the wagons wheels was loud behind them.


    cknail frowned at the mans cluelessness. Because giant spiders live there, obviously! I wanted to clear the road so that we a get to Herstcrest faster.


    Geralhd huffed. Well, lets hope that Ilisti was right and the fire doesnt spread out of the dark woods.


    After half an hour of hurried running, it appeared that Ilisti had been right. No roaring wall of mes consumed them, so everyone was rather relieved about that. However, back behind them, a torrent of ck smoke began to rise up into the sky. Thankfully, it did seem like the ze wasnt moving in their direction.


    cknail nodded happily to himself. Hed been right to set the fire after all. Not only would it get rid of the spiders and allow them to use the road, but it would clear all the brush from atop the road there as well. Once the fire died down, getting to Herstcrest would be much easier. cknail also nned on clearing the rest of the road, so that he could send minions to the other goblin camp quicker and safer. Maybe he could use the boars to do that?


    The rest of day went by slowly as cknails party followed the old overgrown road back toward Shelter. When it started to grow dark, they began to look for a ce to settle down for the night. Up ahead, there was arge rock formation visible from the road. Its sharp stone point pierced the top of the forest canopy, so cknail decided to take some hobgoblin scouts and go check it out. A quick exploration of the huge rock formation revealed an excellent ce to set up camp at its base. The ground was dry, the rocks provided shelter, and it was easily defendable.


    However, when cknail left his minions behind and circled around the rocks, he heard a noise off to his left. Frowning, the hobgoblin looked up over a boulder to see what had made the sound. There were any number of dangerous creatures that it could be, and setting up camp near them would be stupid.


    As he peeked over the rock, cknail froze in surprise. A strange andpletely unexpected sighty before him. Were those giant bugs? He was looking at two creatures about the size of a hobgoblin, but instead of standing straight up they moved across the ground on six skinny legs. Faded ck carapace covered their very insect-like bodies, and their mouths were nked by protruding mandibles.


    Both the creatures were walking backward as they draggedrge objects behind them using their mandibles. One had a deer carcass, while the other was dragging arge green bush. Sensing cknails presence, they suddenly stopped and spun to face him. Their eyes were dark empty pits as they studied the hobgoblin, and then they both reared up and hissed aggressively at him.

 Will of Iron 2

    Will of Iron 2


    Surprised, cknail took a step back as a tingle of fear shot up his back. In front of him, therge insect-like creatures continued to hiss and re. cknail had never seen anything remotely like them before. Saeter also hadnt mentioned anything simr, so he had no idea how to react. Were they dangerous? Should he run away or stand his ground and try to scare them into retreating? cknail had no idea what the right action was. Although, he vaguely remembered that Ilisti had mentioned some mysterious creatures that sort of resembled these things. Boggarts, he had called them.


    Both the ck beasts began to scuttle forward, so cknail reacted instinctively. No giant bugs were going to chase him away from this ce! He had already imed it as his own.


    Enemies are here. To me, my minions! Fight for your great leader, cknail yelled as he drew his sword.


    Since he didnt know how to properly handle these boggarts, the safest bet was just to kill them. He could probably manage that easily enough. Not only was he super strong, but he had allies nearby.


    Almost immediately after cknails shout, there were replying yells from the nearby hobgoblins who were just out of sight, and they began to run over. While that was happening, the two boggarts hissed and threw themselves at cknail. Their front limbs came up and reached for him, revealing three long curved ws on the end of each foot. Theirrge ck eyes shone as their jagged mandibles opened wide enough to bite down on a humans head.


    cknail quickly dodged to the side and shed at one of the outstretched ws. His de hit the limb and knocked it aside but didnt appear to do much damage. Hmm, that wasnt good. A frown appeared on the cknails face as he caught his bnce. The creatures shiny carapace was strong and thick. ying it safe, cknail retreated a few steps to buy time for his allies to arrive, which they promptly did. Behind him, two hobgoblins ran around the spire of rock and then toward the fight.


    The arrival of more hobgoblins didnt appear to intimidate the boggarts. If anything, it seemed to infuriate them. They hissed loudly like boiling tea kettles and shook with anger. One of them reared up on its back legs and wed the air aggressively. It only stopped when the reinforcements reached cknails side and became an immediate threat. Readying themselves to fight, the two boggarts crouched down as if they were about to leap.


    Oh, what are these things? one of the hobgoblins asked in shock as he raised his weapon to guard cknails nk. The second hobgoblin took up position on his chiefs other side.


    It doesnt matter. Just kill them, cknail replied as he leaned back to avoid the swing of a w. It didnt look very clean.


    Following his orders, both the other hobgoblins immediately shed at the boggarts and went on the attack. Their swords bounced harmlessly off carapace, but cknail took the opportunity to step forward and kick the enemy to his left. The toe of his boot mmed into the head of the boggart, stunning it. Grinning as the thrill of the fight filled him, cknail didnt let up. Fiercely, he stabbed his sword down into one of the creatures shoulder joints. The de caught for a moment, before sinking into the thin strip of pale flesh between the armor segments. The boggart immediately shrieked in pain. The shrill scream assaulted cknails ears. He winced as he tugged his de free and stepped back, but the pain felt like sweet victory.


    The wound seemed to cripple the boggart. Its arm went ck, and slobber began dripping from its mouth. It tried to attack again, but even its working front limb moved slowly and weakly. cknail grunted disdainfully as he blocked the blow, and then he kicked it in the head again. There was a wet crunch and the boggart copsed onto the rocky ground.


    The remaining enemy was busy fighting the two other hobgoblins, but itspanions fall seemed to enrage it. The boggart ignored a de aimed at its head and charged. The surprised hobgoblins de bounced off its armor as it leapt on top of him, and its mandibles mped down on his arm. As the hobgoblin yelped, cknail pulled out a dagger and stabbed the boggart in the eye. The de effortlessly sank deep into the creatures brain, and it began to spasm uncontrobly. Immediately, the hobgoblin it had tackled pushed it off himself and stood back up. His wounded arm was bleeding quite badly and he was covered in scratches.


    Huh, I thought theyd be tougher. Ilisti made boggarts sound scary, cknail remarked as he studied the fallen creatures. They hadnt been weak, but there were a lot of things more dangerous than them in the Green.


    The injured hobgoblin made a pained whine and cradled his arm. It was difficult to say how bad his injury was, but most the hobgoblins had been taught basic first aid, so he would probably live and recover. If he didnt, it wasnt cknails problem. Back at his base, more goblins were transforming into hobgoblins all the time. He honestly didnt know what to do with them all.


    cknail started to sheathe his sword, but a ttering noise drew his attention. Still on edge, he turned to look over at the edge of the rocky formation. There were several tall boulders blocking his sight, but as he watched, a group of dark shapes ran out from between the rocks.


    More enemies! cknail yelled to get his minions attention.


    He counted five boggarts this time. That was bad. Even if he defeated these, he couldnt be sure there werent more on the way. The five boggarts took a moment to study the hobgoblins and their fallen kin, before scuttling forward to attack.


    I dont like these things, cknail observed sourly as he readied himself to fight again.


    Judging by their behavior, it seemed like boggarts were territorial and moved inrge packs. It also looked like they didnt care much about individual survival, which wasnt a good trait to encounter in an enemy.


    The five boggarts hissed and spat angrily as they determinedly charged the hobgoblins. cknail and his two minions stepped closer and raised their weapons as the boggarts closed in. cknail grimaced as he studied the enraged creatures. This was going to be a hard fight if his own reinforcements didnt arrive soon. Just then, there was yell from behind cknail.


    Im here to join the fight! Wow, what are those? They look mean, Khita shouted excitedly as she ran over to join cknail and his minions.


    cknail grimaced and sighed in exasperation. Why did it have to be Khita? Anyone but her would have been much more useful. She was useless.


    However, quite unexpectedly, the scuttling mob of attackers suddenly stopped just outside of the reach of the hobgoblins weapons. Instead of charging the surprised hobgoblins, they froze in ce and threw a series of surprised nces at Khita. Uncertainty shone in theirrge ck eyes as they studied the human girl. When she reached the hobgoblins, the boggarts began furiously clicking at each other, and then they backed away and fled back the way they hade.


    What? Why? cknail eximed angrily as he watched them go.


    Why had they chosen to flee all of a sudden? Was it possible that they been afraid of Khita but not him? No, that was impossible. Khita was as weak as her skinny arms and fat head made her look.


    Apparently, Khita had simply been the first of cknails allies to arrive. From the same direction, a mix of humans and hobgoblins rushed out from behind a pile of rocks. ncing over his shoulder, cknail saw Geralhd among them.


    Ha, look at those creepy things run, Khitaughed as she put a hand on cknails shoulder. I sure scared them away. They''re no match for us!


    No, you didnt scare them away. Dont say that! cknail replied as he brushed her hand away. The boggarts were nowpletely out of sight, but they hadnt fled from Khita.


    What in all the hells were those things? Geralhd asked as his group joined up with cknails. Several of the humans looked spooked.


    They were boggarts, cknail exined authoritatively. He was fairly certain that was right, and no one else here would know more than him.


    I thought those were a myth, and a lot smaller, one of the men from Shelter remarked in surprise. Werent those supposed to steal chickens unless you put out old shoes for them?


    The humans began talking amongst themselves nervously. The two dead boggarts were stillid out on the ground alongside the bush and dead deer that theyd been dragging.


    They dont even have real feet. What would they do with boots? Khita observed as she pointed at a carcass.


    Everyone ignored her, and cknail took a moment to lean down and study the fallen creatures. They were certainly strange looking. Like bugs, their bodies were divided into three segments and they had hard shells. They also reminded cknail of Mimics, especially their eyes, although their body shape and coloring werepletely different. They alsocked anything that resembled a Mimics fake foliage.


    Sniffing one of the dead boggarts, the hobgoblins nostrils were filled with a rich earthy musk. It had an undercurrent of what smelled like a mix of decaying matter. Strange. cknail was reminded of the piles Harvesters made, but these creatures were obviously not rted to the beetles at all, despite a few small superficial simrities.


    Do you think those creatures  the boggarts or whatever- will being back? Geralhd asked.


    cknail frowned and stood back up before beginning to walk toward the rocks that the boggarts had disappeared behind. Good question. Lets see where they went.


    A lot of the humans from Shelter seemed confused. One of them scratched his head as he spoke up. I still dont understand. Arent boggarts like evil spirits? I dont think theyre supposed to be real or this ugly.


    These are boggarts. Do you know more about the Green than me? Im the ranger here, cknail replied as he reached the rocks and nced behind them. Stupid confusing humans. Obviously, he was an expert on boggarts, even if he knew next to nothing about them.


    There were no boggarts behind the boulder, just a lot more tall splinters of rock. After signaling for his hobgoblin minions toe up and cover him, cknail began to sniff out the fleeing boggarts'' trail. He followed their scent around the huge stone pir and the through the smaller boulders for a few moments before it disappeared into a slender fissure. cknail stopped and stared warily at the dark opening. It was located at the base of a pile of boulders and its ck interior was imprable to his sight.


    Geralhd arrived and looked over cknails shoulder. The boggarts went down into there?


    Yes, thats why Im staring at it, cknail replied dryly.


    So, what does this development mean for us, exactly?


    It means we shouldnt camp anywhere near here and that we should double our night watch, cknail replied as he turned away from the hole in the ground.


    There were several things about this situation he didnt like. Most importantly, he had no idea how many boggarts were down there in the deep roads. There could be dozens or hundreds of them just waiting underground for the right time to attack. Secondly, the creatures obviously had no problem seeing in the dark, which meant a night attack was likely.


    No one disagreed with cknails n to leave the area even though it was getting dark. The two boggart corpses were a in reminder that something strange was going and that they werent safe. Everyone immediately began packing up and they were soon back on the road. The sun was almost halfway under the horizon now and it was starting to get difficult for the humans to see, but they didnt have any other choice but to put some distance between themselves and the rock formation.


    Luckily, after about half an hour, the scouts found another good camping spot, on a hill next to the overgrown road. It wasnt quite as nice as the old one, but a quick exploration revealed no nearby caves or angry boggarts.


    As everyone else was settling down for the night, cknail stood at the peak of the hill and looked around confidently. Geralhd and Khita were with him, and it was truly dark out now. The stars and moon both shone overhead in the ck sky.


    Yep, we should be safe here. As both the leader and our best ranger, I led us to a good spot, the hobgoblin remarked proudly.


    Geralhd grunted and looked over the trees to the west. I wish the horizon wasnt still on fire, though.


    cknail frowned. From atop the hill, they could all see that a long stretch of forest off in the distance was burning brightly. The orange glow of the mes was obvious in the dark of night.


    Its not moving in our direction, and it wont spread beyond the old woods. Ilisti said so, the hobgoblin remarked with more confidence than he truly felt.


    Khita justughed. I think its as pretty and sharp as silver. Its definitely the biggest fire Ive ever seen, and Ive burned down a few buildings. You can see the light reflecting off the clouds.


    Its beautiful, Ferrar agreed as he emerged from the darkness to join them. The burning is so bright, yet so far away. I wish I could feel its heat.


    I believe that would almost certainly be fatal, Geralhd observed dryly.


    Since there was little else for anyone to say and it was starting to get veryte, everyone went their separate ways andid down for the night. Amidst the other hobgoblins, where it was safest, cknail snuggled into his nkets and went to sleep.


    The next morning, cknail woke up and got everyone moving. It only took a few kicks and shouts intozy peoples'' ears. Once that was done, a quick chat with his sentries revealed that no one had spotted any strange activity during the night, but there was no reason to stick around. cknail shuddered as a shiver went down his spine. He had a bad feeling in his gut about the boggarts. Their ck armor and segmented bodies were creepy and icky, but it was more than that. He couldnt exin exactly why they bothered him so much, but his instincts were telling him that they were dangerous, and that he hadnt seen thest of the cave dwelling scavengers


    The party and their creaky wagon travelled along the old overgrown road for several hours before nearing their goal. Except for a flight of harpies flying overhead and the distant bellowing of an ogre, they didnt encounter anything dangerous.


    Once the forest parted and the fields around Shelter came into sight, the group split up. Most the humans headed for the town, while the hobgoblins began hiking over to their camp. The humans took the wagon, but almost all of its contents were divided up among the hobgoblins for them to carry. The only human travelling with the hobgoblins was the smelter from Herstcrest that Ferrar had chosen.


    Ill be along to check on you soon, he told his mute daughter before handing her off to Geralhd.


    Geralhd gave the man a dignified nod. I promise that she will be well cared for. Shelter is a rather safe and weing ce. The people there are rustic but well-meaning. Shes in good hands. You wont find better.


    Ive talked to some of the men from there, and I believe youre right, the man replied before giving his daughter a reassuring smile. The little girl gave him a sad nod back and clutched her doll.


    Ferrar had been rather stubborn about making sure the craftsman came with them right away, instead of going to Shelter first. cknail didnt care, but Ferrar was apparently quite impatient to get to work and hadnt been willing to ept any dy.


    Im going to go with them to Shelter. I need to make sure my underlings are taken care of and stuff. Some of them have beenining about the adventure we just went on, Khita told cknail. He didnt care.


    Once Geralhds group was moving, cknail led the others to the goblin settlement. Weighed down by loot and gear, it took the tired hobgoblins a few hours, but they got there without a problem.


    As usual, before entering through the gate, cknail climbed up one of the nearby hills so that he could look down on the entire settlement. It was much the same, a crude wooden wall around a bunch of rocky hills and primitive structures, but he noticed two things that had changed. The longhouse that had been under construction when hed left was done and the beginnings of apletely new one had been put down. cknail sighed as he studied them. So many hobgoblins


    Huh, I was actually expecting much worse than this, the bearded craftsman remarked matter-of-factly as he stared down the hill. I can see some smoke rising from those y furnaces over there. You werent lying about that.


    cknail sighed. It keeps growing. I cant stop it.


    I built those furnaces, Ferrar announced proudly.


    The man grunted and began walking toward the gate. Well, lets get going. I cant say I ever thought Id be doing anything like this, but Ive been expecting to die in misery for a while now, and this cant be worse. The gods have given me hope, so Id be a fool not to grasp at it, no matter how treacherous the way through the dark is.


    Ferrarughed with gleeful excitement as he followed after the man. The light is from a fire burning bright. I cant wait. Were going to burn so much together! It will be so very glorious.

 Will of Iron 3

    Will of Iron 3


    Once the travelers descended down the hill and entered the goblin settlement below, Ferrar didnt waste any time. He immediately dragged the craftsman toward his workshop, and soon they were both out of sight. cknail had his own business to get down to, so he headed off in a different direction.


    As was usual, it didnt take him long to track down his target, Gob. As cknails second inmand, he had been left in charge during cknails absence and would be able to update his boss about what had happened while he was gone.


    Gob was standing in the empty patch ofnd in the middle of the settlement, and he wasnt alone. He was surrounded by over two dozen other hobgoblins. It looked like they were doing training. Some of them were just watching, but most of the hobgoblins were sparring with wooden des made from carved branches. Rather than hardbat, the training seemed to be more about self-control and form. None of the hobgoblins were going all out, and Gob was watching them carefully just in case. He wandered among the sparring hobgoblins while asionally giving out advice and orders.


    cknail nodded in approval. Discipline was more important than skill. Without the ability to control and suppress their emotions a hobgoblin was more of a liability than a useful tool.


    Seeing cknail walking his way, Gob stopped what he was doing and hurried over to meet his boss. Their chiefs presence also drew the attention of many of the other hobgoblins. They nced his way and more than a few of them began to pretend to work harder. Once he reached cknails side, Gob immediately gave him a quick salute.


    Wee back, bossiest one! As always, Im ready to obey your everymand.


    cknail grimaced. Thats not apliment. Being bossy is a bad thing.


    Gob flinched. Sorry, greatest of hobgoblins! I meant no offense.


    Just dont do it again, cknail replied. He knew Gob had misspoken. Gob wouldnt dare insult him, especially to his face.


    A brief conversation was all it took to for cknail to learn that nothing all that interesting or unexpected had urred while hed been gone. He then took a few minutes to fill Gob in on what had happened during the trip Herstcrest.


    and so I killed the humongous glowing god and conquered Herstcrest all by myself. Then, I gave it to Ilisiti because I already have a human town, cknail said in conclusion.


    Truly your strength and power is without match. No man or god can stand against you!


    Yep, Im pretty amazing, cknail agreed with a nod of approval. Gob sometimes had a way with words. Sometimes they were even the right words.


    Is there anything you wish me to do now? Gob asked eagerly. He seemed to want to serve.


    For now, you can continue training the hobgoblins. Thats important, but there is some stuff I want you doter.


    Like what, boss?


    The cave I am staying in now is not worthy of my greatness. Im going to need my minions to build me a mansion. It needs to be bigger than all the other buildings and be incredibly impressive looking. Everyone who looks at it should know that they need to respect me, cknail exined.


    I will begin work this very day! It will berger even than any building in Shelter! Gob replied enthusiastically.


    cknail smiled and nodded appreciatively. Thats a very good point. Make sure you do that.


    It wouldnt do to have anyone in Shelter looking down on him because they had arger house than him. It was very important that all the humans there knew who was in charge. He was.


    Before cknail could think up any more important features his house would need, his train of thought was interrupted by a scream. Closing his mouth, cknail nced over his shoulder just in time to see a ming goblin run out from behind a building. It was actually the goblins shirt that was on fire, but he certainly seemed to be in pain. He didnt stop screaming as he ran past the hobgoblins and toward the creek outside the settlement walls. cknail sighed as he watched the goblin disappear. He was certain he knew where that goblin had juste from.


    cknail grimaced as he turned back to Gob. Youd better go make sure that goblin doesnt set anything important on fire. I think I should go see what Ferrar is doing.


    Hed thought he could leave the fire-obsessed hobgoblin alone with his new toys, but obviously hed been wrong. Very wrong.


    Leaving Gob to his own duties, cknail headed through the settlement and toward Ferrars workshop. Soon, the hobgoblins workshop came into sight. It was a fairlyrge building made of mud bricks with a tiled roof. The original had been made of wood, but it had burned down. Several y furnaces of different sizes and shapes surrounded the workshop, and off to one side was a pavilion made from four tall wooden posts with stitched hides stretched between them. Piles of materials were stored under there.


    Ferrar and his recently acquired human helper were standing out in front of the building. The human seemed to just be watching with an amused  yet more than slightly frightened - look on his face, but Ferrar was directing a dozen goblins as they dug a hole and gathered up piles of bricks and y. All the goblins were running in every direction while Ferrar yelled and waved his hands in the air.


    What are you doing? cknail shouted as he stomped over. He needed to be loud to get everyones attention.


    Were working fast! Soon, but not soon enough, we will be melting iron in the cleansing fire of a new furnace. The secret is the air and the waterless wood. Fire breathes, you see. You need to give it more air so it can grow stronger and hot enough to melt metal, Ferrarughed as he turned to give cknail a mad grin. He was practically vibrating with excitement.


    cknail gave him a cold stare. I just saw a goblin run by. He was on fire.


    Undaunted, Ferrar shrugged and kept grinning. That happens. Were doing science!


    cknail stared at Ferrar for several long seconds. He wasnt sure what he could say that would get through to the other hobgoblin. Ferrar seemed to be in the middle of some sort of mad fit.


    ming goblins arent safe. This is my territory. If you burn anything or anyone important then I wont allow you to keep burning things, he eventually replied.


    Ferrars smile didnt slip. Dont worry, boss. I can be safe and fast at the same time!


    I dont think thats true at all, cknail countered. Ferrar didnt seem to be paying attention, though. He turned back to the working goblins and yelled several new orders at them.


    Instead, it was the human who answered. Still looking more than a little afraid, he turned to cknail and gave him a polite nod of greeting. He certainly really likes his work, too much really. Dont worry, though. Ill keep things under control. This is just a small test and should be fairly safe.


    Good. Just try not to get burned to death. That would annoy Ilisti and the people of Shelter, cknail told the man. As he was talking, a goblin ran over with severalrge pieces of raw iron that had been taken out of one of the nearby caves. Some of the caverns were quite extensive and went on for a long time before ending.


    All themotion attracted some other attention. Imps workshop was nearby, and he wandered out to see what was going on. The hobgoblin mage carried the tall metal staff cknail had won from a human mage in one hand as he walked over.


    Youre back, chief. Did you encounter any magic on your trip, Imp asked.


    cknail sighed despondently in response. What was with some of his hobgoblins and obsessions with weird and dangerous things? Sure, it made them too useful to smack or kill, but it also made them dangerous and frustrating to deal with. Also, they were generally too needy to be good minions. They forgot to be properly respectful, and why did they need him to constantly solve their problems? He was the leader, not their subordinate.


    I did find some magic, and if you grovel a few times Ill tell you about it, cknail told the mage crossly.


    Immediately, Imp did as he was told and bowed while praising his chieftain. A few minutes of this satisfied cknail, so he informed Imp about all the mana crystals and magical powers hed encountered on his journey. The mention of the crystal that had controlled the slime seemed to interest him most of all.


    How amazing. Avorlus will be interested to learn of this. Yes, very much, Imp eximed excitedly.


    Once Imps curiosity had been sated, cknail wandered off. He had several other important things that needed done before he could settle down and take a well-deserved break. Ever since hed been forced to leave Scamp behind at the other goblin camp, cknail had been distracted by thoughts about what the hobgoblins with him were getting up to. He couldnt shake the feeling that they were conspiring against him. Now that they were safely away from his direct supervision it was possible they might use all the skills hed taught them against their rightful leader. The ungrateful scum!


    Thankfully, Ilisti had given some good advice on how to manage minions that were far away, and cknail had some good ideas of his own. He knew that in the future he would be forced to send lots of his minions off to different ces were Gob and him couldnt supervise them, so it was time to put some precautionary measures into ce. Hobgoblins couldnt be trusted.


    The pig pen had grown a lotrger since thest time cknail had seen them. They were still next to a wooden shack with a thatch roof, but now the muddy pen itself was almost twice asrge as it had been, although it was still encircled by a ramshackle fence made up of tied together branches sticking out from the ground. As expected, there were severalrge pigs and boars wallowing in the mud. Even though they were all young, some of them were already much heavier looking than cknail, and they would undoubtedly keep growing. The boar that had fathered them had been many times a hobgoblins size before his death at cknails hands.


    Is there anyone inside? Your leader is here. Come and praise me! cknail yelled as he approached the hut.


    Thest time hed been here the hobgoblin in charge had been rolling around in the mud with the pigs, but he didnt seem to be there now. Unless he was under the mud or had been eaten by the pigs


    A series of thuds from inside the hut drew cknails attention, and a few secondster a scrawny hobgoblin stepped out and saluted him. cknail didnt recognize him, but that was probably because he was fairly clean instead of coated in mud.


    Thank you for visiting this pathetic hobgoblin, chief. How can I help you? the hobgoblin asked.


    cknail gave him a stern nod. Im going to have a job for you and your animals soon. How many of them are strong and tame enough to be put to work out in the Green?


    I have around a dozen good strong pigs, and soon I will have even more. They are good boys and girls, and because of your incredibly wise orders, the hunters are still bringing in more young pigs to join my herd.


    Ah, right, cknail mused. Hed given that order a while back. It had mostly been to help clearnd for nting and create an emergency meat supply, but now the beasts would serve another purpose. It was a good thing he hadnt cancelled the order after those two hobgoblins had been mauled to death by an angry boar that had objected to them stealing his children.


    What exactly do you want my herd to do? the hobgoblin herder asked.


    I will be building some roads. So, Im going to need them to uproot a lot of bushes and haul logs and materials around.


    They can do that, no problem. They are good, smart animals. Yes, they are.


    You really seem to like the pigs a lot. Youre always here with them, cknail observed. Obviously, this was another hobgoblin obsessed with something weird.


    I like being with them and ying with them. Theyre my friends. Unlike other hobgoblins, theyre nice to me and bring me presents, instead of hitting me. Also, they smell much better and are much cleaner than hobgoblins.


    Probably, cknail admitted. Hobgoblins werent big on personal hygiene, but they did like hitting each other. A closer look at the hobgoblin in front of him, revealed several scars on arms and face. He seemed to have lost a few fights, which wasnt a surprise given how scrawny he was. Well, it wasnt cknails problem, and he seemed happy enough to be useful.


    After a brief conversation about the pigs, cknail quickly excused himself. He was getting tired and experience had taught him that hobgoblins could talk about their fixations forever without end. cknail wandered the camp and spoke to a few more hobgoblins before going to get something to eat and rxing for the rest of the day. He scowled at the entrance to his cave and grumbled to himself in dissatisfaction before entering it. He really needed to get his mansion built. An important leader like himself needed a huge fancy dwelling that instilled awe and fear in all his minions, and a great leader certainly didnt live in hole in the ground.


    cknail spent some of the next two days rxing, but during his absence a lot of small problems and work no one else could do had built up. Instead of eating and sleeping all the time, he was forced to go around and manage a lot of hobgoblins that wanted his input or orders. Only when all that was done did he have time to rest and recuperate from all his travelling. Why was being the boss so much work?


    Ferrar and his new helper were also quite busy. They had finished constructing their new smelting furnacest night and had lit a small fire inside it to harden its y walls. That fire had burned out over the night, allowing the furnace to cool. The device was a cylinder that was open at the top and made from bricks held together by y. It rose up from a mound of earth and there was a big hole at the bottom of it. A pile of ck ashes had spilled out from that hole. They couldnt use it yet, though. Instead, they were gathering up wood and tinder to create fuel for the furnace. Once the wood was stacked up vertically, they thered the pile with y andpletely covered it except for a few holes at the bottom and one at the very top. The wood and tinder were then set on alight, and once it was nicely ame the holes at the bottom were sealed. When the fire had died down, the mound was torn open to reveal the charred ck remains of the wood.


    Apparently, this burnt wood was called charcoal and it burned hotter than normal wood. cknail found that very doubtful and it made no sense to him. Shouldn''t wood that had already been burnt be less useful as fuel? Well, whatever. Ferrar and the human craftsman were the experts.


    It took a while for the charcoal to cool down, so Ferrar was forced to wait another day before attempting to actually melt some raw iron ore into useable ingots.


    When the next morning came, cknail woke up and got to work again. He grinned in excitement as he shoved the cloth that hung across his door and stepped outside. Today he would be taking several steps toward the fulfillment of the n hed began the moment hed recovered from the death of his master. Werrick didnt know it, but his death was inevitably stalking closer.


    The first thing cknail did was go and check on what Ferrar had aplished yesterday, and make sure he was still alive andpletely intact. The hobgoblin had still been working when cknail went to sleep, but he found the fire-obsessed tinkerer already up and working on the smelting furnace. Hed already loaded some iron ore and charcoal into the smelter. Now several goblins were taking turns at the bellows that hed acquired somewhere and was using to pump air into the structure.


    This is a small furnace and wont make much metal, but if it works I can build a bigger one, Ferrar exined.


    And Ill be able to go to Shelter and see my daughter for a few days while he sets up the next phase of our experiment, the human craftsman added. He looked and sounded tired, which wasnt surprising. Hed been sleeping in Ferrars workshop. cknail doubted Ferrar was anything like a good roommate, especially over the past few days. Hed been a little intense about this project.


    So, if this works then you will be able to make iron tools? cknail asked. He wanted to make sure he was going to get something useful out of all this rather tiring fuss. There had already been another ming goblin incident.


    Yes, Im told there is a cksmith in Shelter that will be able to forge the metal for you, the man replied.


    Good, cknail eximed gleefully as he rubbed his hands together. It was time to bend the people of Shelterpletely to his will.


    Turning away from the workers, cknail headed over to gather up some minions to send to Shelter and invite the important people there over to see his new furnace in action. The pieces were in ce. All he had to do was tell the simple humans what they wanted to hear and give them some meaningless trinkets and they would be y in his hands. Today, his settlement would be a power to be reckoned with and finally began to change the North to suit its master''s vengeful will.

 Will of Iron 4

    Will of Iron 4


    It took a few hours for the humans from Shelter to arrive at the goblin settlement. However, all the people cknail had been hoping to see were there. Escorted by his minions, therge group of people walked through the front gate and into the settlement. The mix of vigers and former bandits numbered over forty. Tannin was there, alongside Geralhd, Khita, Avorlus, and Beardy.


    With a friendly grin on his face, cknail walked over to them and gestured at his surroundings with wide open arms. Wee to my camp! Its not much, but the walls keep the wind and animals away.


    It was Tannin that stepped forward. The older man with a thick grey beard gave the hobgoblin an appraising look for a second before nodding politely. Thank you for having us. I hear youve got a proper mess of interesting things that you want to show off.


    Yep. Youll be very impressed. Im pretty amazing, cknail responded cheerfully.


    The crowd of humans promptly followed cknail over to Ferrars workshop. The hobgoblin had just finished opening up the furnace and extracting the refined iron a few hours ago. Still excited, Ferrar directed their gazes toward where two chunks of ore were cooling on a rock off to one side. cknail didnt find them all that interesting, but the cksmith Tannin had brought along seemed impressed.


    These nuggets of pig iron look like theyve been made properly, he observed. I can see that the g has been melted out of them. Yes, I can work ore of this quality into proper wrought iron that we can use.


    cknail sighed. Even after going through the furnace and cooling down the metal Ferrar had refined was next to useless. Apparently, it needed to be heated up again in a different furnace and hammered. It was a good thing Ferrar was so obsessed with this stuff. It was far tooplex and tedious for cknail to figure out.


    As Ferrar beamed at the cksmiths words, Tannin nodded and turned to cknail. And youre willing to trade pig iron like this to us regrly?


    Of course, were neighbours. We should get along and help each other! cknail replied cheerfully.


    Right, what do you want in return for this generosity? Tannin huffed.


    cknail smiled and made a dismissive gesture with one hand. Just more of what youre already doing. You can trade me food like cheese. Also, I will pay you to help my minions nt crops and to teach them to make stuff. There are lots of things my minions cant do, such as cksmithing.


    You could also help me make wrought iron, Ferrar suggested.


    Tannin frowned skeptically. Oh, why would we want to teach you any sort of forging? Giving away our monopoly on that skill wouldnt seem to be in our interest. Your iron is useless without it.


    cknail just smiled. He knew that the iron was valuable to the humans since they couldnt produce the metal themselves, and they had a lot of tools that had degraded over the years, but they had no idea how valuable their knowledge and expertise was. With it, cknail could change the world and be a the most powerful chieftain in the North.


    My minions are going to need a lot of simple little iron tools, like nails and arrowheads. Your one cksmith would need to work nonstop to make them all, or he could take a few hobgoblin assistants to help him with the small simple things while he concentrates on your own needs.


    And what happens when you no longer need our skills? Why would you continue to supply us with iron?


    cknail shrugged. We can learn anything we need from Herstcrest, even if the craftsman they lent us doesnt know. Its better to be friendly with us now so we will give you better tradester. It will take a long, long time for us to learn even part of your skills.


    Tannin exchanged looks with the cksmith and then sighed. I suppose thats an eptable offer.


    cknail snorted. He was more than willing to barter, since it cost him so little, but there was no ignoring the force disparity between the two groups. While Shelter had arge poption, there was no way it could survive in a long-term struggle against cknails minions. In fact, theyd already been falling into ruin before cknails arrival. They needed his good will.


    After the bargaining with Tannin hadpleted, Geralhd walked over to cknail. Hed been studying the workshop with obvious enthusiasm and interest, which was a little odd since hed never been one for hands-on work.


    This is all rather amazing! Geralhd remarked excitedly. There is no archeological evidence to suggest that goblins and hobgoblins ever worked iron before. They only used stone tools. Im seeing history in the making here. I wonder if in the future anyone will ever dig up this site and study its artifacts.


    cknail blinked. Just wait until Geralhd saw what he was going to do with the iron.


    I do amazing things all the time, since Im the greatest hobgoblin who has ever lived, cknail remarked before leading the group away from the smelting furnace. While he was showing off, there were some other ces he wanted to show them.


    The next stop on their tour was the y ovens. There several goblins were feeding the fires and loading up an oven full of newly-made pots. The process had been improved a lot since the goblins had first tried it. The specially made kilns damaged or destroyed far fewer pots. The pots themselves were also much moreplex and artistic. The goblins that were making them liked carving little figures and patterns into the y. Hunting and war weremon scenes, although most of them just looked like squiggly lines.


    After moving away from the kilns, cknail took them to the tanning racks where the animal hides gathered from hunting were hanging up and drying. He knew humans wouldnt find it all that impressive, but the hides were worth something in trade. Several of the humans were rather impressed by some of the wolf skins had acquired.


    And this is where my giant mansion is going to be built, cknail said as he pointed to arge area of stony ground that had been cleared and levelled. Everyone stopped to look.


    Huh, but right now, it''s just an empty patch of dirt, Geralhd observed carefully.


    Maybe, but when its done it will be bigger than everyone elses homes, including yours, cknail replied crossly before moving on.


    How many goblins and hobgoblins are here in this vige now? I cant seem to figure it out by looking since all these goblins havent stopped running around, and they seem to pack themselves into houses like berries in a bears mouth, Tannin asked as they walked back to the main gate.


    cknail shrugged. No idea. More are always popping out of nowhere. Gob might know.


    Tannin frowned and nced over toward one of the longhouses for a moment. Theyd finished visiting most the interesting ces within the camp, with the notable exceptions of the gold cave and Imps hut. The people of Shelter didnt need to know about the gold or cknails ess to magic. Having magic around made some people twitchy and unreasonably paranoid. cknail was one of those people, but for now, the benefits of Imps magic outweighed the risks.


    Why are we headed back to the entrance? Tannin asked as his group followed cknail. You arent kicking us out already, are you?


    No, I just want to show you something and suggest an idea, cknail replied as they reached the gate and looked out at the forest.


    Hmm, what is it?


    Moving through the Green is hard and dangerous, yes? Evening here isnt easy for you.


    Thats true enough.


    cknail raised a hand and pointed at the path that led back to the humans vige. But you humans built roads to make it faster and safer to travel from ce to ce. We could do that. My minions could cut a road from here to Shelter and then from Shelter to Herstcrest. That would make it easier to trade.


    Tannin perked up. Huh, thats an interesting idea. Weve been disconnected from therger world for too long. What would you need from us?


    Mostly just advice, cknail replied.


    Wed be more than happy to help you out with such a project. Of course, even with a proper road, the Green is dangerous to travel through.


    My minions could patrol it and build shelters beside it for people to rest at. They wouldnt be fancy, but they would keep animals out, cknail replied. He had something like the feral goblins half-buried huts in mind. They would be able to hold back anything up to an enraged troll, which they would still at least slow down.


    After a bit more conversation, Tannin agreed to send over some people to help with cknailstest project. The group then headed back inside the settlement to get some lunch. As Tannin stepped back to speak to some of his people, Avorlus emerged from the crowd and headed over to cknails side.


    It has been a while since ourst conversation, the mage remarked.


    Still doing dangerous magic stuff? cknail asked him.


    Avorlus rolled his eyes. Yes, which is what I wanted to talk to you about.


    Oh? cknail mused. Should he take a step back?


    Ive learned almost everything of value I can from Imperious and taught him what he needs know to make your Elixir in return, as per our deal. Thus, I find myself with a surplus of free time and yet a severe deficit of proper facilities to work with.


    You cant go back to Daggerpoint. The other mages still want to kill you, cknail pointed out.


    True, but since Im stuck out here in these savagends, I might as well take advantage of any opportunities that fall into myp. Imperious has been telling me about your visit to Herstcrest. I was hoping to make a visit there to examine the crystal cavern you found. Ive never actually ventured to see such a source before.


    cknail absently scratched the side of his head. Im nning to send some minions that way in a few days, but I dont think the vympirs like mages much. They call them wise-men, but they seem to think theyre too dangerous to have around.


    Yes, they are fascinating creatures. Id seen them referenced in schrly works, but never heard of anyone seeing any in real life. I would love to be able to examine them.


    Dont try it, cknail advised the mage.


    Avorlus grunted sourly. Im not suicidal. I understand their enmity toward mages, and its notpletely unreasonable. If I do go to Herstcrest, I will endeavor to stay out of sight and be as unobtrusive as possible.


    Until you begin ying with the magic exploding crystals in their basement?


    Even then.


    cknail sighed. Ill think about it.


    By now theyd reached the cooking area, so everyone began to sit down. There were a bunch of crude stools and chairs scattered around the fire pit. cknail had gotten the stew started a few hours ago so it was done now. After serving cknail first, the hobgoblin in charge of the cooking began handing out bowls to everyone else, which were delivered by goblins.


    Soon, everyone was eating and talking amongst themselves. cknail nodded happily as he observed what was happening. All the humans looked rxed, despite being surrounded by hobgoblins. The people of Shelter were growing used to the hobgoblins. Not too long ago they would have been terrified by the presence of even one.


    While cknail was eating, Geralhd and Beardy walked over and sat down next to him.


    You seem to be keeping yourself pleasantly busy with all this work, Geralhd observed.


    Ya, its suspicious. Youre azy beast at heart, Beardy added. cknail couldnt deny that.


    Geralhd sighed. I think, were both simply curious as to why youve suddenly be so interested in building a series of roads. That seems like an incredibly difficult and thankless task for someone with your priorities and inclinations.


    cknail weighed his options for a moment before answering. He wasnt sure how honest he wanted to be, but a momentter, he decided that there was no point holding anything back. I keep having to send minions away to do missions, but Im worried about how loyal they will be. You cant trust hobgoblins. However, Ilisti said that better roads will help me keep a better eye on what is happening in other ces.


    Thats the sanest thing youve ever said, the bit about hobgoblins, anyway, Beardy remarked.


    Geralhd looked doubtful. Arent you being a little paranoid? Its not like the other hobgoblins are all trying to kill you.


    Quite a few of them are trying to kill me, cknail replied with an amused grin. But Im very hard to poison and after I executed thest few idiots that tried to ambush me, theyre all too afraid to try again.


    Beardy seemed to find this funny. He let out a loud bellyugh. Geralhd winced in surprise.


    Well, maybe, what youre missing is a cause or mission. Roads dont seem like a terrible idea, but a united sense of purpose and identity seem like a better idea to me if you want to inspire loyalty in your followers.


    Whats that? cknail asked.


    Like human countries have gs and symbols, so that no matter where they go they know who and what they serve. A country gives people a shared identity so that they can work together and remember that what serves the whole group also serves them individuals. Its like a story they live, I suppose. It makes them part of something greater than themselves.


    cknail frowned thoughtfully. Hmmm, I dont think that would work for hobgoblins. Were a little different.


    Hobgoblins were not the same as humans. Despite what Geralhd seemed to think, their minds worked very differently. Humans were herd animals in a way that hobgoblins werent. Hobgoblins formed tribes, but those tribes were always a tool for the hobgoblin to use, not something they would sacrifice themselves for. It was even difficult for hobgoblins to see a tribe as something more than a collection of individuals.


    In a lot of gangs or the navy, they just get tattoos, Beardy remarked.


    cknail perked up. Skin art? That could work!


    Yes, at the very least it would allow the tribe to recognize its own. Having the symbol of cknails authority etched in their skin might also make a lot of hobgoblins hesitate about betraying him, especially if that symbol gave them status. Hobgoblins liked being better than others, and wouldnt want to lose that.


    Grinning excitedly, cknail turned to Beardy. Can you make tattoos?


    Um, I guess I can. I mean Ive got one and seen it done a few times. It didnt look that hard, as long as you dont want anything too fancy.


    Good, I want to give all my hobgoblins marks.


    What exactly do I get out of this? That sounds like a lot of work, Beardy remarked coldly.


    cknail reached into his coat and pulled out a small lump of gold, which he tossed to Beardy. After catching it, the man blinked in stunned disbelief at the object in his hands.


    Youre just going to give this to me? Beardy asked in surprise.


    cknail chuckled. Yes, where would you go?


    Beardy scowled but tucked the nugget of gold away into his own coat. I suppose you have a deal. I can teach you how to create tattoos.


    With the dealplete, cknail began to turn away from the humans, but Geralhd coughed politely to get his attention. You should at least try toe up with a name for both this settlement and your tribe. If for no other reason than so people know what to call you.


    Thats a good idea. I will have to think of some names. Im great at naming things, just ask Gob! cknail eximed happily. For some reason, Geralhd grimaced sourly.


    By this time, everyone had finished eating and all the conversations were starting to die down, so cknail ended the lunch break. He talked to Tannin briefly before saying goodbye to everyone and sending them back to Shelter with some hobgoblin scouts as guides. Only Beardy remained behind to do some experiments on giving goblins tattoos. Several were knocked over the head and volunteered for his use.


    Once the visitors were gone, cknail began organizing things for the next day. There was no point waiting around. Tomorrow was going to be a big day. For the first time ever, he was going to muster the full power of the settlement hed built - an organized horde of goblins - and put it to work. The Green would be pushed back and cknails route South would open up before him. First, he would build the road, and then he would march an army down it to strike at his masters unsuspecting enemies.

 Will of Iron 5

    Will of Iron 5


    After making ns with Gob, cknail began gathering up all the tools he would need to begin building a road through the Green. After that, he spent the rest of the day selecting hobgoblins to lead work crews and threatening to gut them like fish if they didnt have their crews assembled tomorrow at dawn. Then, he went to bed. Screaming and growling menacingly at people was hard work.


    The next morning, when the yellow orb of the sun began to peek above the horizon, cknail had breakfast while all the work crews hurriedly assembled themselves outside his home. It was a great disy of how amazing and inspiring his leadership skills were. Had there ever been a better leader than him? Undoubtedly not. He was unprecedented.


    When cknail finished eating and headed out to begin working on the road to Shelter, he brought along arge mob that was a mix of hobgoblins, goblins, and boars. They crossed the cleared fields and swiftly reached the trees. There, the goblins cleared bushes and moved debris, while the hobgoblins used steel-headed axes from Herstcrest to chop down trees. The boars were mostly used to drag or move the trees once they had fallen. It was slow going and very loud. The repetitive sound of axes splintering wood filled the air while goblins screamed at each other.


    The idea was to create a road that a wagon could travel across easily. cknail also wanted to clear the area around the road of all the brush and cover that could be used by predators to ambush travellers. That meant the ground had to be ttened and the trees to either side of it had to be cut down.


    As cknail watched from a safe distance, there was an ear-splitting crash as a tree hit the ground. As soon as the ground stopped shaking, a swarm of goblins and hobgoblins ran over and began to disassemble it. Branches were hacked off and boars were tied in ce so they could begin dragging the tree out of the way. Teams of goblins began digging up the stump, while goblin overseers with spears kept watch to make sure none of their kin tried to leave or ck off. Moving the fallen trees took a lot of muscle power, but cknail had a lot of goblins. With some rope, and a lot of pointed encouragement and supervision, it was entirely possible for them to pull the logs.


    All this activity made cknail feel proud. Miraculously, it was happening with very little intervention from him. He simply pointed the lead hobgoblins in the right direction, and they kept the others in line. There was a pyramid of authority and cknail only had to worry about punishing the people at the top of it if there were any screw ups. That meant he didnt personally have to deal with all the stupid and disorderly goblins at the bottom of the pyramid.


    As cknail was congratting himself, Ferrar walked over to his side. He wasnt one of the crew leaders, but cknail had invited him along to get his input on the construction, since he was the closest thing the tribe had to an expert on building stuff. He was almost as good at building as he was at destroying.


    Hmmm, thats a lot of wood, boss, Ferrar remarked as he watched another tree fall. I could use these logs for charcoal. All my furnaces are going to need to burn a lot of fuel.


    Take what you need, cknail replied as he supervised the workers. We can use the rest to build log cabins. The new axes will make it easy to chop the logs. I helped make cabins for Herad, and they were very warm during the winter.


    The work crews didnt manage to aplish all that much during the first day, but that was fine with cknail. They were still experimenting and learning how to do the job. The next day, cknail led them all out into the Green again, and their productivity increased noticeably. While they were working, they got some visitors from Shelter. Three older male vigers cknail hadnt talked to before came to see the work and give advice.


    If you n on building a road that a wagon can roll across and one that wont wash away in the spring youre going to have to put some foundations in ce to hold the dirt in ce, one of them pointed out. Also, you might want to think about how youre going to bridge the creeks and gulleys in your way.


    Cant we just use some of these logs? cknail asked.


    Those will be fine as temporary fixes, but green wood will rot quickly and constantly need reced. I dont suppose you have mortar? the viger replied. cknail didnt know what that was, but Ferrar apparently did.


    Ive been using y to stick bricks together, the hobgoblin answered.


    That might work, but lime would be better. Do you have that?


    As cknail listened, the pair began talking about how to create lime mortar by putting limestone into a kiln and firing it. cknail was quite amazed that Ferrar had somehow managed to find another reason to build some new kilns to burn apletely new material in. It seemed like half of human civilization was finding the right way to set things on fire. Maybe Ferrars fire-centric worldview was less crazy than cknail had thought, if only a little.


    All in all, it looks like youve got what you need to build yourself a road, though, the human viger told cknail. The idea of a road to Herstcrest has quite a few people in town excited, even if they understand the ce isnt what it used to be. Weve been cooped up inside Shelter for too long. Still water goes bad, and a lot of folk feel like weve been under constant siege thesest few years.


    It might take a while to build that road, cknail replied.


    The man just nodded sagely. Weve been cut off for over a decade. We dontck patience.


    After inspecting everything, the vigers went back home. Under his careful supervision, cknails minions continued working until it began to get dark, and then they headed back home for supper. All the hobgoblins and goblins were tired and hungry after working so hard, but none of themined, since that would have just got them smacked.


    The following days passed in a simr manner. Slowly but surely, the work crews cut their way through the forest. Tree after tree fell to hobgoblin axes, until atst, they reached their destination. After two weeks, cknails minions arrived at the fields outside Shelter. There was a crash as they cut down the veryst tree in their way.


    A small crowd of people from Shelter were watching, and they immediately began pping once the tree had fallen. cknail waved at them, before yelling at some hobgoblins to get back to work. It was important to keep up good rtions with the humans, even if they were doing silly human things that seemed like a stupid waste of time.


    Anyway, there was still a lot of work that needed to be done before the road was truly finished. They may have cleared thest tree, but the path wasnt fit for a wagon. The muddy ground needed to be ttened and hardened, bridges needed built over creeks, and weak spots needed to be drained and reinforced. However, cknail didnt need all his work crews for that. Most of goblins could be let go now, and getting to Shelter was now noticeably faster and safer. No more stumbling into unseen mimics or bears.


    After thest tree had been dragged aside and work had begun on digging up its stump, cknail paid closer attention to the gathered humans and listened in on what they were saying.


    Never thought Id see the like, goblin roads, one man remarked with a judgemental huff.


    The woman in a homespun dress beside him nodded in agreement. Things are changing, thats for sure. Probably for the better, I think. The gods know there are few ways they could get worse.


    Maybe, but I sure wish I knew what was going to happen next. This is a strange wind that is blowing over us and who knows what rides upon it, an frail-looking older man with a bald head replied as he stroked his long white beard.


    cknail huffed indignantly in response and turned away. Of course, things were changing. He was here now. How could they not change when the greatest leader ever born was here? He made everything better by his mere presence.


    Tannin came over to talk for a few minutes about cknails schedule. After they were done chatting, the vige headman led the other humans back to the vige. cknail let his minions rest for a few minutes before taking them back to the goblin settlement.


    Just as the walls of their home came into sight through the trees, they passed by a group of Ferrars minions who were working around a cluster of newly-constructed charcoal mounds. The smoking piles of earth had been built to burn the trees felled by the work crews. Even from this far back, cknail could see the thick trails of smoke that were now constantly streaming up into the air over the settlement. Ferrars many ovens, kilns, and furnaces were all constantly burning wood and charcoal to produce the endless stream of materials cknails ns required, and because Ferrar just liked burning things.


    When the work crews reached the settlements gate, cknail disbanded his minions. Instantly, the ranks of goblins and hobgoblins dissolved into chaos as they all fled in every direction as quickly as their feet could carry them. They didnt want to stay anywhere near cknail, in case he changed his mind or found something else for them to do. cknail just grinned in amusement as he watched them flee. Their efforts were futile. There was nowhere they could hide from him.


    It didnt take long for Gob to show up. He walked up to cknails side and gave his chieftain a quick respectful salute.


    How are the preparations for tonight going? cknail asked him.


    Everything shall be as you wish, your amazingness. There have been no problems with your incredible n. I made sure of it, personally, Gob replied.


    cknail stretched out his arms and yawned. Good, Im going to take a nap until the feast is ready. Make sure all the hobgoblins are there when I show up. I dont n on doing this twice.


    Gob gave him another salute in acknowledgement, and cknail headed over to his cave to waste some time until supper. It was so nice to finally have some halfwaypetent minions he could delegate things to.


    Some timeter, the low rumble of drums awakened cknail from his slumber. He grumbled to himself, but climbed to his feet and walked outside of his cave. It sounded like the feast was starting and he didnt want to miss it. It was important that he give his speech. Tonight, he was going to be making some important changes. Just thinking about it made cknail excited and he grinned in anticipation. The sluggishness of sleep sloughed away as the sound of drums grew louder in his ears. It pulsed in tune with his beating heart.


    All the noise wasing from the center of camp. It was just starting to get dark, so cknail could make out the light of several fires up ahead. The soft glow cast flickering shadows on the walls of the buildings around cknail as he walked closer to the light, and the sulent smell of cooking meat grew stronger. Without a doubt, thebination of sound and smell was drawing every hobgoblin and goblin to the training field. They wouldnt be able to resist.


    Walking out from among the longhouses, cknail stepped out onto the training ground. As expected, it was full of hobgoblins and goblins. They loitered around and watched the bonfires, where Gob and a small formation of hobgoblins with swords and spears were overseeing the cooks and drummers as they worked.


    The drums were primitive things, but they made more than enough noise and they were fun to use. The instruments were made from a tanned animal skin that was stretched over a hollow cylinder of wood and tied in ce using sinew. To y it, a goblin or hobgoblin simply pped the top repeatedly. cknail wasnt sure where the design hade from. One of the hobgoblins had just started making them, and since they werentpletely useless, hed allowed them to continue.


    Walking through the crowd, cknail approached Gob. Is everyone here?


    Yes, I sent some hobs to look all throughout the settlement, and they didnt find anyone. Besides, who would want to  or dare to - miss a speech from our great chieftain? Gob hurriedly answered as cknail nodded and turned away.


    Under the darkening sky, cknail studied the ranks of his hungry minions as the firelight yed across their angled faces and sharp inhuman features. Most of them were grinning from excitement or hunger, revealing a sea of sharp pointy teeth, and their beady eyes were almost all looking his way now. Yes, he definitely had their attention. It was time. Grinning confidently to himself, cknail stepped up onto a wooden tform several goblins hurriedly brought over and cleared his throat.


    I am cknail, the mighty chieftain of this mighty tribe. Before I gift you all with lots of delicious hot food, listen to my wise words!


    All the gathered hobgoblins grew silent, and the rhythm of the drummers behind cknail grew quieter and more subdued.


    Some of you may be wondering why you are here and why you listen to me. Let me tell you why you obey, cknail told the gathered goblinoids with steely confidence. There are those among you that do not know what it is like to be a feral hobgoblin. Because of me, many of you have grown up without knowing that savage life. Ferals have no clothes or tasty meals. They have no allies and no shelter. If you were a feral you could not sleep without fear of harpies ws and trolls jaws. Without the restraint I have beaten into you all, you would turn against each other and be ferals. You would need to flee before the steel and skill of humans. They would surround you and cut you down, no matter how sly and tricky you are.


    Amidst the sound of the drums, there was a crack as a branch in the fire snapped in two, and a shower of sparks shot up into the air next to cknail as he continued speaking.


    I have changed all that. I tamed the rage that would destroy you. Now, we cut down the Green itself to make our homes and trample the ground beneath our feet. Our power rises every day. Under me, you have more than you could ever dream of, and this is just the beginning. When you eat the feast I offer to you, remember that it is yours because you obey me and contribute to the tribe. Loyalty and skill are rewarded here.


    Several hobgoblins shouted in agreement, but cknail silenced them with a wave of his hand. We are more than just some goblins and hobgoblins gathered together, and we are more than a mere feral tribe that has grownrger than normal. There has never been anything like us before. The world shudders as we take our ce upon it. The sound of our drums echo unchallenged through the Green. Thus, I now give us a true name. We are the ckmark n and this fortress that we have made our own is Ironbreak!


    As cknails voice fell silent, his gathered minions began whispering and talking among themselves. A heady blend of emotions could be heard in their voices. Fear, excitement, and surprise were all mixed together. cknail gave them a second before continuing.


    However, tonight, I offer you more than names. I offer a new reward to the skilled and loyal among you, a mark to show everyone your abilities. To show the world what you have made of yourself.


    cknail gestured and one of the hobgoblins standing beside Gob stepped up onto the tform next to cknail. In the light of the bonfires, it was easy to see that there was something different about him. He had a tattoo under his left eye.


    It had taken quite a bit of experimentation to get the tattooing process down, but the third group of goblin test subjects had all survived, so Beardy and cknail had moved on to discussing design and cement. cknail had wanted it to be somewhere in in sight, so hed decided to put the tattoos on hobgoblins faces. The entire point of the tattoo was to be a constant and unescapable reminder of membership in the tribe. The design they had settled on was a simple series of ck lines around the eye. This hobgoblin was a warrior and that was what his tattoo indicated. The ck dye stood out from the green skin and it was easy to make from certain smashed rocks.


    From now on, all hobgoblins will be given a mark after their transformation to signify their membership in the tribe, and after they havepleted their trial of initiation, they can ask to be tested for further marks, cknail exined before pointing at the hobgoblin beside him. This hob has the warrior mark. He was tested by the tribes leaders and found to have enough skill and courage to be one of our best fighters.


    When he was done describing all the benefits of getting a mark, including not having to do menial work, cknail exined that the warrior test wasnt the only one a hobgoblin could take. There was also a crafting mark for skilled workers and one for mages, although neither had been designed yet. Ferrar and Imp would be in charge of testing for them.


    The gathered goblins and hobgoblins reacted with excitement to the news, although they swiftly began to grow bored and hungry as cknail kept talking. Noticing this, the hobgoblin chieftain quickly wrapped up his speech and announced the start of the feast.


    Instantly, the mob of goblins rushed forward and began to fight over the best pieces of food. cknail smiled as he watched them from atop his tform. As they ate, the hobgoblins talked amongst themselves. They seemed excited about getting their own tattoos. cknail chuckled as he listened in. The ckmark tribe had been born, and soon the entire world would know that name, along with his own, and they would tremble in fear.

 Will of Iron 6

    Will of Iron 6


    The gathered horde of hobgoblins and goblins continued to feast until thest bit of food was gone. Too stuffed to move, most of them sat around the bonfires and rxed. The scratchy sound of goblin conversation could be heard over the low sound of the drums, and a few hobgoblins even began singing. Acting swiftly, cknail used a club and excessive levels of violence to stomp it out before it started. He didnt want to listen to that. Hobgoblin throats were not made for singing.


    Once everyone had been given some time to digest their meals, cknail announced the next event. The night wasnt over yet. Not even close. Now, cknail would be publicly testing the first few hobgoblins that wanted warrior marks. As everyone watched, an area next to the bonfires was quickly cleared of goblins and a circle was drawn in the dirt around it.


    When the ring wasplete, cknail and one of Gobs minions entered the circle. Both of them wore leather armor and were holding blunt short swords. cknail was nning on putting on a show, so that everyone was reminded about how awesome he was. The test itself was simple. The applicant would duel the examiner and try impress him with his sword skills. Once the duel was over, the examiner would decide if he passed or failed. Harming the examiner was forbidden, but cknail had taken a swig of Elixir just in case. You couldnt be too careful around hobgoblins, and it was more than possible for them to be dangerous because of stupidity or ipetence rather than malice.


    Raising his de, cknail smiled at his opponent. The hobgoblin seemed nervous and unsure of himself so cknail took the initiative and attacked first. He opened with a few easy and controlled swings that forced the hobgoblin to concentrate and dodge. After several of his blows were blocked, cknail increased the speed and power of his attacks. However, the hobgoblin was able to block or dodge them all using the basic sword techniques hed been taught.


    To pass you need to attack me, cknail said as he advanced.


    The hobgoblin grimaced but moved forward to meet cknail, and after dodging his chieftains next attack, he shed at cknails arm. cknail easily stepped out of the way of the attack and countered by extending a leg and tripping his off-bnce minion. The surprised hobgoblin stumbled and cknail easily tapped his back with the tip of his de.


    You need to do better. Try again, cknailughed as his embarrassed opponent nodded and steadied himself.


    They sparred for a few more minutes without the hobgoblin getting a blow on cknail. That was to be expected, though. cknail had trained for much longer than any of his minions, was a Vessel, and was also a total genius at everything. Still, this hobgoblin had shown a solid understanding of the basics, so cknail ended the fight and awarded him with a pass. Smiling in relief, the hobgoblin initiate bowed to cknail and then stepped out of the ring. The nearby hobgoblins shouted encouragement as he passed. Watching the fight had gotten everyone excited.


    After a quick break, the next hobgoblin looking to be tested entered the circle and began to spar with cknail. This fight and the next both went very simr to the first. The hobgoblins passed, but they werent able to hit cknail or even challenge him all that much.


    The fourth hobgoblin to enter the circle was quite tall. Much to cknail annoyance, he was even slightly taller than him. Ignoring his height, his head was decorated by two curved horns and short brown hair. He also didnt seem as nervous as the others had been. Instead, he was actually smiling in excitement. Weird. Looking him over, cknail decided that he wasnt going to go quite so easy on this applicant. A few smacks would probably do him good.


    As soon as his opponent had taken up a guard position, cknail rapidly glided forward to attack. He unleashed a swift sh at the hobgoblins head meant to force him to block, so cknail could push him off bnce with the next move. However, much to cknails surprise, the tall hobgoblin didnt try to block. Rather, he managed to lean out of the way of the attack and counter at the same time. The hobgoblins de sliced toward cknails side and he was forced to jump back. Scowling, cknail brought his guard back up and reassessed the skill of his opponent. Clearly, this hobgoblin was better than the ones before.


    Aggressively but not without caution, the tall hobgoblin stepped forward to keep the pressure on. cknail didnt give ground, so they quickly exchanged a series of blows and shes, with neither of them gaining the advantage. cknail stopped holding back. Without burning Elixir, he used all his speed and power. When his opponent failed to buckle under the pressure of his blows, he then began to use every dirty trick he knew. Although a few techniques caught the tall hobgoblin by surprise, he swiftly adjusted and managed to avoid being hit. The fighters danced around the circle as they relentlessly hacked and shed at each other. Their des sliced through the air and met with violent ngs that caused the myriad watchers to flinch. The rowdy mob of watchers that encircled the ring began to grow quiet as everyone became entranced by the fight and the dance of shing des.


    However, cknail eventually began to tire, since this was his fourth match. How could this hobgoblin possibly be so good at sword fighting? Where had he learned to fight like this? It didnt make any sense. cknail grimaced as he deflected a stab toward his gut. As the leader, there was no way he was going to back down. He still had a trick or two left anyway.


    Scowling in determination, cknail pressed the attack. Heunched a series of quick feints and shes at the space around his opponents head. The hobgoblin dodged the first few strikes but was eventually forced to take a step back. That was what cknail had been aiming for. Instantly, he swung his de around and shed at the hobgoblins trailing front leg. His sword sliced through the air but missed its target by less than an inch as it the hobgoblin pivoted on his back leg. At the same time, his sword came back around and struck toward cknails shoulder.


    Cold surprise shot up cknails spine as his eyes locked on the iing de. For a timeless moment, the sword seemed impossible to stop and cknail stood frozen. Then, Elixir burned away cknails doubt as he tapped into its power, and he burst into motion. With new speed, he leaned away from the blow as he raised his weapon, and then he struck. His de leapt toward his opponents side and hit him squarely in the ribs. At thest moment, cknail pulled the blow and twisted his sword so that he hit with the t of the de, but it still struck with enough force to send the hobgoblin stumbling backward, and there was a loud thud from the impact.


    Grinning in satisfaction - even though hed maybe, sort-of cheated a little tiny bit -cknail let his de drop. Hed won, and that was the important thing. Of course, it hadnt really been apetition Well, whatever. Hed won.


    As a cheer broke out and the watching mob began screaming cknails name, the fallen hobgoblin groaned and stiffly climbed to his feet. He kept his de arm low and clutched his injured side, so it didnt look like he wanted to keep on fighting. That was fine with cknail.


    So, did I pass, boss? the tall hobgoblin shouted so that he could be heard over all the shouting.


    Oh, right. This was a test. cknail nodded. Ya, good job. Where did you learn to fight like that? Youre much better than everyone else but me. Its a little weird.


    The hobgoblin shrugged, and then winced as the action caused him pain. Lots of people taught me. Ive been learning from every human and hobgoblin that would teach me, and fighting all the people who wouldnt. The redheaded human female has been very useful.


    I doubt that, but good job. Your swordsmanship is impressive, cknail replied. He was one of the few hobgoblins cknail had ever met who would probably be able to defeat a human in a fair duel. Was he some sort of genius or something?


    The hobgoblin bowed his head in thanks. The shinning sword is all. The way of the de is the knowledge you gave us. It had allowed me to be better than my rage. It has transformed me. Now, I am the de itself. I have given it my everything and it has given me my everything in return.


    Neat, cknail replied with a tight smile. Ah, so he had another one of these. At least it was a very straight forward and useful obsession. Most the others were much more roundabout when it came to using them for murder. Although, the tricky part was going to be not getting murdered himself.


    Hmm, I dont know your name. Do you have one? cknail asked.


    The hobgoblin nodded. They call me


    cknail cut him off with a wave of his hand. I shall call you shi. Thats your name now, and its a great one, so you should thank me.


    The hobgoblin now known as shi looked unsure and hesitated a moment for replying. Thank you?


    No problem. Im awesome at naming things! cknail replied as he gave shi a friendly pat on the shoulder.


    Unsteady on his feet, shi then departed the ring and thest challenger entered. cknail scowled as he realized who it was. What was Herah doing here? Had she always been part of the event? cknail had no idea if she was any good with a de. Wait. Was that Khita standing over by where Herah hade from? Seriously, why was she here? The stupid redhead had definitely not been invited. No humans had been.


    What are you doing here? cknail asked Herah as she walked over with de in hand.


    She gave him a curious look. Im here for the test. I want a warrior mark.


    Alright fine, but Gob didnt mention that you were one of the candidates. I would have probably remembered that.


    Herah shrugged. Yes, one of initiates he suggested was injured in an unfortunate ident, so I volunteered to rece him.


    What exactly happened to this unlucky hob? cknail asked. He was suspicious.


    Something hard hit the back of his head and knocked him unconscious, Herah answered deadpan.


    I see cknail replied carefully. Well, lets get the test started.


    He wasnt sure what Herah was up to, but Khita was undoubtedly involved in it up to her scrawny pink neck. Why else would she be here?


    Herah nodded in acknowledgement and raised her de as she took a stance, so cknail did like-wise. A momentter, he began the spar with a high sh meant to draw her out. She hesitated but didnt take the bait, so cknail pressed the attack.


    The sparring match continued for several minutes after that. Herah seemed to be at the same level as the first two hobgoblins or maybe slightly higher. cknail quickly began to get tired, so he wrapped the fight up fairly quickly. After tapping Herahs shoulder he stepped back away from her.


    Fine, you pass. You can have the warrior mark, cknail told her as he took a few deep breaths to fill his lungs and speed his recovery.


    A happy grin appeared on Herahs face. Oh, thank you, great chief. You are as wise as you are handsome!


    I know, cknail replied as he turned away from her.


    There was a loud chorus of cheers from the watchers around the ring as they realized the fight was over, and cknail went to find somewhere to sit down. His arms were stiff, and he was breathing heavier than normal after all the sparring.


    Herah happily trailed after him. When he turned to look at her, she gave him a friendly grin. Would you like some food, boss? I can grab some for you.


    Why would you? cknail asked suspiciously.


    Youre the chief and Im your minion. I live to serve you, and besides, you worked so hard to set up the test.


    cknail considered her words for a moment. Alright, fine. I do feel like having some more meat.


    Right away, boss! Herah replied. She winked and then turned to run off back the way shede.


    Feeling a little confused, cknail went to find a ce to sit. There was a nice wooden bench sitting just the right distance from one of the bonfires. The only problem was that it was upied by three hobgbolins, but that was easy enough to fix. Yawning, cknail simply walked over and shoved them off the bench from behind. Once the startled hobgoblins saw who it was that had pushed them, they swiftly vacated the premise without a word. cknail nodded in satisfaction as he sat down on the bench. It was nice to be respected properly.


    After cknail had been sitting down and enjoying the waves of heating off the fire for a few minutes, Herah returned with a te of meat. cknail wasnt sure were shed gotten it since almost everything had already been eaten. She must have had it squirrelled away somewhere.


    Here you go, best boss, she said as she handed it to him.


    Thank you, cknail replied as he took the te. He had to push himself up since he was lying on his side.


    Herah quickly sat down beside him and gave him another grin. Do you want me to feed you? You seem very tired.


    Hmm, alright, cknail replied after thinking it over. Her idea would prevent him from having to get up, and it was unlikely that she was trying to poison him. He was fairly sure he hadnt done anything to enrage hertely. In fact, she had been unusually quiet these past few days.


    Without dy, Herah began cutting up the meat and using a fork to bring the meat up to cknails mouth where he could eat it. She smiled down at him as cknail ate, and cknail got a whiff of her scent. It smelled like shed been rolling in flowers or something. Weird. By the time the te was empty, cknail was feeling very full. His belly stuck out and felt heavy. He had already eaten earlier after all.


    Looking around, cknail saw that the field around the bonfires was emptier now and the sky overhead had be pitch ck and peppered with stars. It had grownte and many of the goblins and hobgoblins had wandered off back to their homes. Since cknail had already eaten as much as he possibly could, it was probably time for him to do the same and head home for the night. Groaning, cknail begin to get up.


    Where are you going? Herah asked with a pout. She seemed to have been enjoying herself, although cknail had no idea why.


    Im going to sleep now. See you tomorrow, cknail answered as he began to walk away from the bonfires and out into the darkness.


    Instead of staying behind, Herah quickly followed after him. Ill walk with you.


    cknail waved her away. No, stay here.


    As Herah stopped and pouted again, Khita suddenly emerged from out of nowhere and walked over. She cane with me. Im going to the cave as well.


    cknail stopped in his tracks and turned to scowl at her. Khita had a bed in his cave because back when hed first imed the ce it had been one of the only safe ces she could have slept, but she had rarely used ittely. Still, it was obviously too dark for her to go back to Shelter now, and she had to sleep somewhere.


    Why are you even here? he asked her.


    I never miss a party or a fight, and this was both. Where else would I be? the redhead replied with a smug smile.


    Fine, whatever. Neither of you better ruin my sleep, though, cknail replied as he began walking again.


    For some reason this made Khitaugh as she joined up with Herah. Together, the pair strolled after cknail and whispered quietly back and forth. cknails ears twitched as he tried to listen in, but he couldnt quite make out what they were saying. cknail huffed in annoyance. It was probably stupid nonsense anyway.


    When cknail got to his cave and walked inside, Khita and Herah both followed him. Narrowing his eyes in suspicion, cknail sat down on his bed and stared at them. It was obvious that they were up to something. The pair were obviously co-conspirators in some sort of scheme, although cknail wasnt sure what the goal of it was.


    As cknail watched, the pair whispered to each for a few moments, and then Khita suddenly spoke up. Sure, you stay here. Ill go grab theb. I want to show it to you anyway.


    The redhead then turned and gave cknail a quick mischievous grin before running out of the cave. Suspicious! cknails brow wrinkled as he watched her go. What was she ying at? He hoped it wasnt going to interfere with his sleep. He didnt have the time or patience to deal with all this nonsense right now.


    As cknail focused on Khita leaving, Herah tentatively walked his way. cknail frowned and turned to look at her, and she gave him a nervous smile.


    Theres something I want to show you, Herah announced.


    What is it? cknail asked.


    That was when Herah pulled off her shirt of and untied her belt. Both her shirt and her pants hit the floor at the same time, revealing her naked body. cknail stared, too surprised to think.


    My breasts have gotten bigger, havent they? Herah asked as she put her hands on her hips.


    Slowly, cknail brain began to work again. Hed figured out what was going on now. It was an ambush! The problem was he wasnt sure he even wanted to avoid the trap.


    Do you like what you see? Herah asked him as she stepped closer and wiggled her hips. Even in his current state of mind, cknail knew there was only one answer to that question.


    Yes, youre nice to look at, cknail found himself saying. It was true. Herahs chest had filled in a little, even if it was still nothingpared to that of certain humans, including one that cknail wasnt even going to think about right now. Bad idea.


    cknail hesitated as Herah leaned in closer, and he smelled the flower scent again. It wasnt particr strong, but it did smell refreshing. Stop. He had to focus, and not on Herahs enticing green body. Something else.


    Was it safe to mate with Herah? cknail had been sure that hed had good reasons not to but he couldnt remember what those were right now. Most importantly, it seemed unlikely that this was a plot to assassinate him. Herah was loyal, and would gain nothing from killing him since everyone would know it was her. Unless someone else was behind the plot... but who?


    Suddenly, Herahs lips met his own, and cknails brain shut off again. Burning need zed up from below his core and sent his heart into overdrive. He growled softly as the feeling consumed him, and he reached over to pull Herahs thin body closer

 Will of Iron 7

    Will of Iron 7


    The image of a dashingly handsome hobgoblin with a perfectly pointy nose looked back at cknail as he stared into the puddle of water. Wow, he was good looking. Grinning at his own magnificence, cknail raised a hand and rubbed the top of his forehead where his horns were growing. It had been a while since hedst trimmed them, and now they were as long as one of his fingers. That was longer than theyd ever been.


    Having horns was awkward. cknail was still getting used to their weight, and they kept getting heavier as they grew. They also made it much harder to wear hats and hoods, and it was basically impossible for him to disguise himself as a human anymore. That was fine, though. The time for hiding his identity was over. Now was the moment for seizing power, and among goblins long horns were a symbol of authority.


    cknail nodded in approval at his reflection. His horns definitely had a nice white color that contrasted nicely with his green skin. cknail couldnt wait until they got longer. He hoped his would keep growing until they were as impressive as the antlers of the hobgoblin chief hed killed. Those had been very striking. It wasnt like he really cared, but he wondered if Herah would find that attractive. What about humans?


    Bah, whatever, cknail grumbled as he stood up and began walking back to the road. At this point he doubted he could keep Herah away with a long pointy stick, no matter what his horns looked like.


    cknail had just finished going for a quick early morning walk out in the bush. He enjoyed his privacy, which was hard to find in Ironbreak these days. The settlement was buzzing of activity, and cknails minions were always looking to get his approval or advice for something that should have been obvious. It never stopped.


    Several weeks had passed since the first warrior initiation ceremony had been held. Except for a few difficult areas, the road to Shelter wasplete. Most of the work crews were now working on the road to Herstcrest, but cknail had also sent some of them South to scout and map the old roads that led back to civilization.


    The workers cutting their way to Herscrest were actually making good time. Unsurprisingly, it was much easier to repair an old road than create an entirely new one. Most of their work was just clearing brush and younger trees, and in some ces that already done that for them by the fire cknail had set.


    cknail wandered out of the bushes and jumped up onto the road. Broken vegetation and torn earth still surrounded it, clear signs of all the effort that had gone into cutting a path through the forest. Here and there, a few fallen logs were stillying next to the road. Many of the logs had been dragged back to Ironbreak, but there was still plenty left that had yet to be moved.


    As cknail approached the settlement, he saw dozens of logs piled up outside the walls. Further out, the crops that the goblins had nted were beginning to grow. The small fields looked haphazard and chaotic but most the nts were healthy. Under he watchful eyes of overseers, teams of goblins kept the fields free of weeds and bugs.


    Two weeks ago, cknail had sent a bunch of his minions over toward Herstcrest. Some of them were recements for Scamps group at the goblin camp, and others were to help Ilisti hunt for food. Avorlus had also gone with them. Hed been determined to study the crystal cave there, and cknail had decided to let him. He wasnt sure it was safe, but hed already gotten the information he needed from the mage, so that wasnt really his problem.


    The morning air was wet and chilly, so as he fought off a shiver, cknail headed to Ferrars workshop. There was always at least one warm fire burning there, and he found their work interesting as well. He usually had no idea what they were trying to do but watching them run around ying with fire was amusing.


    Ferrars workshop hadnt stopped growing. It now contained arge storehouse and a small smithy. There was a hobgoblin working at the smithy as cknail approached. Using arge hammer, the hobgoblin was pounding a small piece of heated wrought iron into the shape of an arrowhead. He was using a pair tongs to hold the metal in ce on top of a small anvil as he worked. The anvil had been loaned to them by the smith from Shelter.


    cknail walked over to the heat of a furnace, and watched sparks fly as metal crashed loudly against metal. This hobgoblin was one of Ferrrars assistant and he had the makers mark on his face. It wasrgely the same as the warrior mark, but the lines around the eye were a bit different. The rhythmic nging of the cksmiths work kept cknails attention as the warmth radiating from the smoking furnace next to him warmed his bones. Ah, that felt better.


    Ferrar and his assistants were now capable of creating a bunch of simple tools out of wrought iron. Mostly, they made nails and arrowheads, but they were also trying their hand at spear tips and shovels.


    cknails presence at the smithy didnt go unnoticed. Ferrar emerged from one of the nearby buildings and quickly hurried over to his chiefs side.


    Have you found a swordsmith to kidnap yet? Ferrar immediately asked. There was a hopeful look on his face.


    Still no, cknail told him. He was unamused. Ferrar had been asking him the same question every day for the past week.


    cknail had made the mistake of asking Ferrar if he could make swords. The answer had been a definite no, but the question had intrigued Ferrar. Apparently, swords were much harder to make than arrowheads. Wrought iron was too soft, so they had to be made from steel, which Ferrar couldnt make yet. Actually making a sword also required special cksmithing techniques that Ferrar, the expert from Herstcrest, and the cksmith from Shelter all didnt know. That was why hed asked cknail to find and kidnap a human who did know how to make swords.


    I havent even left Ironbreak. Where would I find a rare type of human like that? cknail asked. Hede to the conclusion that Ferrar was spoiled rotten, and far too used to getting what he wanted.


    Ferrar shrugged Maybe he got lost in the woods?


    No, thats dumb. Ill tell you if I find a swordsmith. Stop asking, cknail replied before huffing and walking away.


    Looking over to his left, cknail saw a construction site. The surplus of lumber and ess to iron axes had allowed the hobgoblins to began building log cabins. Some of the flimsier longhouses were already being torn down to make room for them. The log cabins would be much warmer in the winter, and the area inside the settlements walls was starting to get crowded, so room had to be made for them. It had be impossible to count all the goblins that now lived inside Ironbreak. The little runts had swarmed out of the Green to get ess to the plentiful food and shelter that Ironbreak offered. More and more of them were also transforming into hobgoblins. It was a good thing that the Green was so bountiful. If you could survive to harvest it, the forest was full of food, and goblins would eat almost anything anyway.


    The avability of timber and iron tools had also allowed cknail to began construction on his mansion. Several workmen from Shelter were helping his minions create a proper house of his own using the best human construction techniques. It was far from done, but onceplete it would be the biggest and fanciest home around! cknail couldnt wait to fill it with loot.


    As headed to Gobs longhouse, cknail passed by the training field. It was the onlyrge empty area left inside the walls. The space was needed both for training, which several hobgoblins were using it for right now, and for the public tests. cknail had been holding new initiation ceremonies for warriors every few days. However, there was quite a backlog of hobgoblins with the skills to pass the test, so it was a good thing that Gob and a few of his more skilled helpers could act as test administrators.


    Really, it was the tattoos that were slowing everything down. The art of tattooing was simple in theory. Dye was pushed under the skin using needles. However, in practice it was quite difficult. Beardy had done the first few tattoos and tried to teach others, but only one hobgoblin had really picked the skill up. cknail was just d that the warrior mark design was easy to make and didnt have to be exact.


    After cknail reached his destination, he yelled out Gobs name, and the hobgoblin immediately stepped out of his longhouse and gave his boss a salute. Command me, mightiest of chiefs!


    Is the expedition force ready? cknail replied.


    Yes, boss. Theyre at the gate. I picked out only the best scouts and warriors for your escorts and made sure they had the best food packed for the journey. The runner I sent also said that the humans from Shelter will be waiting for you. Everything is ready.


    Good job, cknail replied with a nod of approval.


    cknail had grown tired of sitting around Ironbreak and doing nothing. It was time to push his n forward, and to do that he needed to make a move South. That was why hed sent scouts out to map the best route. There was an old road that had used to connect Shelter to the rest of the humannds, but it had been consumed by the Green years ago. Still, it was the easiest way South. The original path cknail and the others had used to get to Shelter had been far less than straight and involved passing over a lot of rough terrain that the old road would avoid.


    After listening to Gob praise him for several more minutes, cknail dismissed his subordinate and went back to his cave to grab his gear. Once had his backpack, he headed over to Ironbreaks main gate. There, just as Gob had promised, cknail found the force hed requested waiting for him. Two dozen hobgoblins were surrounded by twice that many goblins, and behind them were two hogs that had been loaded up with supplies. Half of the hobgoblins bore the warrior mark and had proper swords. The others carried iron-tipped spears and daggers.


    cknail grunted when he saw Herah among them. He wasnt surprised by her presence. The female hobgoblin had been bothering him even more now that hed mated with her, and she was rarely far away. Oh, well. At least he was getting plenty of sex. That was nice.


    Alright, lets get going, cknail yelled as he motioned for everyone to head through the gate.


    His minions jumped to obey hismand, and soon they were all marching down the newly constructed road that lead to Shelter. They made much faster progress than they could have if theyd been forced to hike through the woods, and cknail set a brisk pace, so they promptly reached their destination.


    Lounging outside of Shelters walls were a bunch of familiar faces. cknail saw Geralhd, Beardy, and at the back, Khita. There were also half a dozen other old members of Herads band and one young man from Shelter.


    Ah, good. Youre here, hobgoblin. We can finally get going, Beardy remarked as cknail approached.


    Geralhd was politer. Its wonderful to see you, cknail. Are you feeling up to an adventure! Myself, I cant wait to get going. Shelter has be a sort of home, but its missing quite a few luxuries, Im afraid. I really need to go shopping.


    cknail gave them both a quick nod. Yes, Im ready. Lets move.


    Several of the hobgoblins that cknail had sent South to scout the way were with him now, so they wee able to lead everyone through the forest and over to the old road without a problem. The overgrown road was in simr shape to the one cknail had taken to Herstcrest. It had obviously been a while since it had seen regr use. Grass and thick clumps of bushes had grown up through what had once been hard packed earth. The trees had also pressed in on both sides and debris like fallen branches and logs littered its surface. However, it did supply cknails group with firm level ground to travel on.


    Hmm, yes. This is much easier than the route we took the first time. Less swamp and cliffs, Geralhd remarked after they had been hiking for about an hour. There were murmurs of agreement from most the other humans and cknail nodded along.


    Despite Geralhds earlier excitement, the rest of the day was uneventful, and after walking until it began to get dark, they had toe to stop and set up camp for the night. Before everyone went to sleep, a scowling and exasperated Khita visited cknail. She had apparently been selected by the other humans to tell him and Herah to stop mating so loudly. That was fine with cknail. Herah was rather exhausting.


    It wasnt until two more days of hard travel had passed that they escaped the untamed Green. The stretch of ruined and overrun road they were following led up a hill and then down to another road. This new road was in much better repair and obviously saw plenty of use. They had reached the border of civilization.


    Atst, were here! Geralhd eximed happily as he looked down at the road.


    But where exactly is here? cknail asked Beardy. This was why hed brought him along.


    Well have to do some exploring to find out. Im not familiar with every nook and cranny in the North, but we should be somewhere Northeast of Herads old camp, the man replied gruffly.


    Geralhd nodded. There are a few walled towns left in this area, and probably some travellers nearby, so we should be able to find someone who knows they of thend.


    That sounded fine to cknail. Go then, and make sure you find out everything you can about Werrick. I will stay here with my minions and wait for two days.


    Geralhd grinned in excitement, but Beardy gave cknail a thoughtful look. And what are you up to? You didnt bring us here just for information and shopping, did you?


    Getting supplies is important, but youre right. I want to keep a watch on this area, just in case, cknail replied with a shrug. We should keep our eyes open. Werrick might try something. He knows were out in the Green and he doesnt like us much.


    Beardy epted that argument reluctantly, and then he led the other humans down the road. Khita waved goodbye to cknail as they walked out of sight.


    What now, boss? one of cknails minions asked.


    We scout, cknail replied. He wanted the entire area explored and everything of interest found before he humans got back.


    At his orders, the hobgoblins split into two even groups and went in separate directions. They were to avoid contact with strangers and stay out of sight. He didnt want any of his minions getting into trouble and creating a mess he had to clean up.


    cknail led the group going in the opposite direction of the humans, and they took the pack beasts, because he was the leader. They walked for over an hour without seeing anything but a lot of trees and rocks, until some noise from up ahead alerted them that someone wasing their way. cknail quicklymanded his minions to hide in the forest at the edge of the road, and then followed them.


    Hiding behind a bush, cknail watched the road and waited for the source of the noise to appear. It didnt take long. Three minutester, a small merchant caravan came into sight. It waspromised of two covered wagons being pulled by horses. Around the wagons, quite a few humans were walking or riding. The clothes the people were wearing were bright and colorful, which wasmon among humans that constantly travelled.


    Briefly, cknail considered ordering an attack so they could steal all their stuff, but quickly decide against it. Now wasnt the time for that, and he doubted they had anything he really wanted. No, he had different ns in mind for the merchants using this road. Soon


    When the caravan was safely gone, cknail and his minions got back on the road and resumed their exploration of the area. As they marched, cknail kept on eye out for any signs of abandoned side roads and sent hobgoblins to examine animal trails. After about an hour, one of those scouts found what cknail was looking for, an abandoned vige hidden away in the forest.


    It was a small cluster of two dozen huts that the wild had long ago reimed. The North was dotted by hundreds of simr ruins caused by humanitys decline, but it would serve cknails purpose just fine. The thatch roofs that had rotted away long ago could be reced and most the walls were easily repairable. It wouldnt take all that long to clear out all the vegetation that had taken over the vige and its fields, and the well in the center of the houses smelled like it would be fine after a thorough cleaning. cknail nodded in satisfaction as he walked around and looked over the ruins. Yes, this ce would function excellently as a hidden forward base.


    We still have lots of time until we need to meet back up with the humans. Get cleaning this ce up, youzy runts, cknail ordered his minions.


    This was why hed brought so many minions, and all the goblins. He nned on setting up another outpost like the one near Herstcrest here. Experience had taught him that it wouldnt take long for the settlement to began to grow and attract feral goblins. Depending on what the humans found out, cknail nned on moving South soon, and when he did, he wanted a fully functional base avable to help him seize control of the nearby territory. That would certainly draw Werrick out, and then their game of prey and predator could began in earnest. The Wolf had no idea whaty waiting within the Green.

 Will of Iron 8

    Will of Iron 8


    Over the next two days, cknail took it easy until it was time of the reunion with Geralhd and the other humans. He kept his minions busy, though. As he intermittently supervised and napped, a lot of work waspleted on restoring the abandoned vige cknails minions had found. The well had been cleaned and cleared of debris. All the shrubs inside the vige grounds had been cut back, and work had been started on fixing up the houses. Of course, they had focused on repairing a house for cknail first, he was the leader after all.


    When the time came for the meet up, cknail led a dozen of his hobgoblins back out onto the road. He left the other hobgoblins and all the goblins behind to continue work on building his new forward base while he was gone.


    After a steady uneventful march, cknail and his minions reached the rendezvous point without any trouble. When they got there, they didnt see any sign of the humans, so they settled down to wait at edge of the forest. There, they could stay out of sight but see anyone approaching. Fortunately, they didnt have to wait long. Less than half an hourter, Geralhd and the others walked into sight. Stretching to work out some kinks, cknail walked out of the forest to greet them.


    I was a little afraid that you wouldnt be here, Geralhd said as he gave cknail a relieved smile. Im not sure why. Events have simply been inconveniently chaotictely, I suppose.


    cknail shrugged. Im d you managed to return without falling into any holes. If you had taken much longer I would have had to go looking for you.


    Khita also said hello, but cknail ignored her and went straight to business. While you were gone, what did you learn about this ce and Werrick?


    It was Beardy that replied first. Well, we were right about where we thought we were. As for the Wolf, we found a town and asked around, but they didnt know all that much about the man himself and what hes been up to, other than rumors.


    We only know what some of his men have been doing locally, but I can guess at his ns based on what Ive heard, Geralhd added. It seems like now that there are no credible threats to his authority, Werrick has been turning the remaining chiefs against each other by backing one side and encouraging them to take out their rivals. He seems intent on whittling down the number of bandits in his territory. Which makes sense to me. There are far too many armed bandits around for anyone to control. They cant just stop robbing and piging, since they arent good for much else.


    Beardy nodded. From what we heard, thats what happened around here recently. One of the local bands was wiped out after their closest rival got some reinforcements and encouragement from Werrick.


    Interesting, cknail mused aloud. The Wolf was a cunning leader. His n seemed like a great way to eliminate unwanted troublemakers and build loyalty among the scattered bandits around the North at minimal cost to himself.


    Suddenly, cknail perked up as an interesting thought urred to him. Did any of those bandits survive? The ones from around here.


    Probably? Beardy remarked uncertainly. I heard that some managed to flee, but surviving out in the wilds is tough for men like that. I doubt most of them will manage to hang on much longer.


    cknail grinned smugly. Perhaps the Wolf had made a mistake. His n only worked wlessly if there was no serious opposition to his rule left in the North.


    What are you thinking? Gehd asked curiously.


    I think we should help out the poor people who have just found themselves in the same situation as we used to be. Right now, they are probably suffering all alone out in the cold. So sad, cknail told him before sighing emphatically. Human emotions were fun to mimic.


    Beardy rolled his eyes scornfully. And how are we supposed to find these poor suffering professional murderers?


    If you know thest ce they were seen, my scouts will do the rest, cknail replied as he shed a toothy grin.


    Geralhd was a little skeptical about the value of trying to recruit some unknown bandits, but he wasntpletely against it. Beardy had long ago learned not to fight cknail about this sort of thing, so he simply shrugged and told him everything he wanted to know. cknail used that information to quicklye up with a n.


    It seems that we will be staying here for a little longer, he told Geralhd.


    The man just shrugged. Thats fine with me, my friend. Ive still got plenty of coin left unspent, and a rather deep thirst for good wine that I suspect will never be quenched. How about we go back to the town and meet you back here the day after tomorrow?


    That would be fine, cknail agreed. Two days was probably plenty of time if he moved fast. However, it would help his mission if he had


    Ill go with cknail, Khita suddenly said. Her unexpected interjection interrupted cknails thoughts and seemed to surprise Hassiol, the young man whod been following her.


    Ive already seen everything interesting that town has to offer, and I feel like more of a real adventure, Khita exined as she suddenly became the center of attention.


    cknail scowled at her. He wanted to tell her to go away, but hed just been about to ask for some humans to help himmunicate with any bandits he found, and to serve as proof that he didnt eat humans. Thus, he couldnt really turn her down and ask someone else to stay.


    Fine, you cane, cknail told her before sighing deeply.


    Soon after that, the humans turned around and headed back to the town theyd juste from. That left cknail alone with his minions, Khita, and the blonde kid that followed her everywhere.


    So, were going to go round us up some new minions! Khita eximed happily.


    cknail sighed again. Yep, thats the n, but we will be going to my secret base to get some more supplies and minions first.


    Sharp! A secret base. I cant wait to see it, Khita replied cheerfully as they began to walk.


    Youre probably going to be disappointed, cknail told her. What exactly was she expecting?


    He was wrong. When Khita got to cknails newest outpost, an impressed look appeared on her face as she looked around. What? She hade from a human settlement much more impressive than this ce, even before it had be an empty decaying ruin.


    Wow, sharp, Khita remarked as she stared down into the well.


    Hassiol nodded. Its sort of neat.


    cknail glowered at them both. Stop being silly. Whats neat about this ce? Its a wreck.


    Lots. Ive never visited an abandoned vige before, Hassiol exined. The way it is all overgrown is spooky.


    Do you think all the people that used to live here were ughtered by bandits or mutants? Khita asked spectively.


    No, there are no bones, cknail told her coldly. And there is nothing special about this ce. There are lots of abandoned human ces everywhere. Youre very messy.


    Khita shrugged. Huh, I guess we are. Wheres my house?


    cknail gave her a nk look. Why would you have a house?


    So, I have somewhere to sleep.


    You can have any house you fix, cknail told he dismissively before going off to find a better use of his time. Talking to Khita was making him dumber. He could feel it.


    Thankfully, cknail had ces to be and things to organize. After deciding to leave half a dozen hobgoblins behind, he mustered up the others and got them marching onto the road. He also brought along the hogs and the two humans. He had thest known location of the bandits he was looking for, so he could probably use that to track them down. First though, he had to get there. It was several hours away, even using the roads, so they would have to move quickly if they wanted to get back before their deadline.


    cknail pushed the pace, and his group eventually closed in on their destination. It was a small semi-permanent campsite built next to the road, and it had been trashed. All the buildings and barricades had been torn down and burnt out. cknail thoughtfully frowned as he studied the remains. It looked like the camp had housed around fifty or so humans. However, judging by all the rotting corpses everywhere, only far less than that could have possibly survived the attack.


    Spread out and find me any human trails that lead out into the Green. I want survivors, he informed his minions, and they quickly jumped to obey.


    There is no chance of running into the raiders that did this, is there? Hassiol asked as he looked back at the road nervously.


    It could happen, cknail replied neutrally. But, they left several days ago, and we can always retreat into the forest if they return. Besides, we would hear theming and human bandits could never track us through the Green.


    Instead of joining the conversation, Khita studied the nearby ruins with an uncharacteristically depressed expression on her face. That was odd. Violence and the destruction it left in its wake usually excited the young redhead.


    This isnt much different than what happened to us, she remarked morosely a momentter. At her words, cknail felt a twinge of loss, which quickly transformed into anger. Werrick


    Not the same. We had a muchrger base and fought much harder than these losers, cknail replied dismissively as he waited for his minions to report back. The bandits here were just prey for the Wolf. If Mahedium hadnt betrayed us, Herad could have beaten him.


    Ya, maybe, Khita responded solemnly.


    For the next few minutes, they waited among the devastation. The silence was awkward, but no one felt like speaking up. cknail just red at everything. Thankfully, one of his scouts soon returned with news.


    I found you a trail, boss. Several humans fled into the Green, that way, the scout exined as he pointed toward the far side of the camp.


    Gather up the others, then. Were moving out, cknail replied as he began walking. He wanted to get out of this ce as soon as possible.


    After giving the hobgoblins time to return and reorganize, the scout led cknail and the others over to an animal trail that led into the forest. They carefully followed the winding path through the trees. cknail led the way. As he walked, he spotted many signs of recent human activity. There were partial footprints in the dirt and broken branches along the way. However, he saw no signs of sentries or watchers.


    Eventually, the trail led them down a hill and to a rocky stream. Leaning out from behind a tree, cknail sniffed the air and studied the forest for any sign of humans. He didnt detect anything recent, so he carefully began to creep down to the stream. Once there, he looked around for more signs, and found some footprints headed upstream.


    I dont get it. Why wouldnt the raiders who took out the camp follow these people. They left a trail even I can see, Hassiol asked quietly once hed walked over to cknail.


    Lots of people get chased into the Green, but very few make it back out again, Khita replied as cknail nodded in agreement. Even for trained scouts, the forest could be deadly, and most humans wereplete idiots.


    After following the stream for a while, the canopy overhead began to open up. Beams of sunlight pierced the leafy roof overhead and hit the ground around the stream, and clusters of tall bushes and young trees grew up toward the illumination. cknail immediately signalled for everyone to stop as he studied the greenery suspiciously. The scent of blood hung heavily in the air here.


    What is it? Khita whispered.


    A mimic. Our targets probably ran into it and then fled. Were going around, cknail exined. He thought one tree in particr was suspicious, but when it came to mimics, it was almost always impossible to sure unless you got dangerously close .


    Cautiously, cknail led the group around the edge of the sunlit area, and he soon found the humans trail. There were drops of blood on the ground now. At least one of them was wounded.


    It didnt take them long after that to find their quarry. The wounded humans hadnt gone far. After escaping the mimic, theyd holed up in a nearby cave. cknail studied it from distance. There was one human keeping watch at its entrance, but he didnt see anyone else.


    So, what do we do now, boss? one of the hobgoblin scouts asked.


    cknail smiled and turned to look at the two humans hed brought. Now we introduce ourselves.


    One brief conversationter, cknail left his hobgoblins behind and began leading his two humans over to the cave. They moved slowly, but out in the open where they would be impossible to miss. Beside him, Khita was vibrating with excitement, while Hassiol looked terrified.


    I cant believe were just going to go talk to them, the young man remarked.


    Amused, Khita just grinned at him. Stop being a baby. What are you afraid of? They have no reason to attack us. It would be stupid.


    They attack everyone. Theyre bandits! Hassiol remarked in outrage.


    So am I! Khitaughed as the blonde young man sputtered in disbelief.


    By now, their approach had been noted. Several more humans appeared at the cave entrance, and they were all looking toward cknails group with obvious tension.


    Hello! cknal yelled as he waved in their direction.


    Who are you and what do you want? one of the survivors yelled back.


    To help you and to have a nice friendly conversation, cknail shouted back.


    The survivors immediately began furiously talking among themselves as cknails group drew closer. cknail wasnt wearing a hood, and it seemed like his inhumanity had been noticed.


    As the two parties met, all the survivors eyed cknail warily. They didnt seem to know what to make of the two young humans with him, but their presence did relieve some of their suspicion, just as cknail had nned.


    All the survivors looked worse for wear. Their already rough clothes were torn, and their entire bodies were sttered with dirt. Dark bags hung under their eyes and their faces were unshaven. cknail was fairly sure he could smell desperation and hopelessness on them. He could definitely smell a faint hint of sickness, although it was just what you would expect from humans with untreated wounds.


    A brown-haired man stepped forward and eyed cknail. Judging by how you''re walking and talking, Im guessing youre the Man-Hunter, the hobgoblin they call cknail. Ive heard of you.


    Yep, thats me. I used to work for Herad the ck Snake, cknail replied as he gave the man a friendly smile. He was famous!


    So then, what have youe here for? the man asked warily. We werent exactly expecting guests.


    You seem to have gotten yourselves into a lot of trouble, so I thought Id help you out. We have the same enemies after all.


    And what would you want in return for this help? the man asked suspiciously.


    cknail kept smiling. I am currently looking for minions.


    What if weve had enough of being on the Wolfs bad side?


    Then, you can stay here. I dont want to force you to do anything, cknail replied as indifferently as possible. Die if you want.


    Are you so sure wed go alone? another survivor asked angrily.


    Chuckling, cknail let out a loud whistle. Instantly, hobgoblins emerged from out of hiding all around the entrance to the cave. Most of them had bows ready.


    Silly human, you dont threaten me, cknailughed. Alone, I have killed many more humans than you have here, and Im far from alone.


    And Im here too, Khita added.


    The leader of the survivors gave the redhead a disgusted look. What are you? His pet?


    There was a loud crunch as Khitas fist impacted the mans face. Blood streamed from his nose as he flipped over backward. Shocked, the other survivors froze and looked on in disbelief. The young woman had moved with startling speed and power.


    Fuming mad, Khita red down at the man shed felled. Im no one you should be disrespecting. Im a warrior and a Slosher, one of cknails fiercest lieutenants.


    Quietly, cknail hummed in disagreement to that statement, but he kept his mouth shut.


    Looking up, Khita focused on the other survivors. Some of you are probably thinking that going up against Werrick is stupid, but that couldnt be further from the truth. cknailmands an ever-growing army, and his scouts dont fear the Green, as shown by how he tracked your sorry asses down. Werrick cant touch him, and if you sign up with us, well get you out of here safely. Then, well fill your bellies and tend to your wounds.


    Well, you have some good points there, especially in the short term, one of the still standing survivors remarked.


    On the ground, the groups leader stared nkly into space for several seconds and then copsed backwards into unconsciousness.


    cknail looked down at him and sighed. Someone is going to have to carry him now.

 Will of Iron 9

    Will of Iron 9


    Youll be staying here for a while. Its nice and safe, so you should thank me, a lot, cknail told the bandits hed rescued as he led them into the abandoned vige his minions were in the process of repairing.


    Its a dump, one of the men replied with a sneer.


    cknail turned to give the ungrateful bandit a cold look. It will be fixed up soon, and who are you toin? You were about to die horribly and living in a dirty cave full of bugs. Here, I will be giving you food, water, shelter, and safety. So, bite your tongue or I will rip it out, human.


    Immediately, the man nched and pressed his mouth firmly shut. Hispanions carefully moved away from him so that they were out of the hobgoblins direct gaze. cknails cold reptilian stare was more than unnerving.


    Ya, stop yourining, you ungrateful slob. Its not like all of you are even capable of travelling, Khita observed as she looked toward the two men being carried on stretchers.


    The rescued bandits had more than a few injuries, and two of them were unable to walk. Luckily, cknail had plenty of hobgoblin minions who were more than happy to help out and carry heavy things for their chief. They knew better than toin.


    Once the new arrivals were settled in, cknail got the uninjured working on repairing some huts for them to sleep in. This also kept them busy, out of trouble, and helped distract them from the reality of being surrounded by hobgoblins. That usually made humans ufortable, and these ones were no exception.


    By the time ail got everything organized, there wasnt much time left until the rendezvous with Geralhds group. Leaving Khita behind to take care of human stuff, cknail took a few hobgoblins with him when he went to meet them. He got there without any problems and didnt have to wait long. Geralhd and the others arrived early. After a brief conversation where he filled them in on what theyd missed, cknail led the humans over to his secret base.


    Theyre about what I expected, a sorry bunch of scum, Beardy remarked as he studied the newly recruited bandits. Still, you could do worse, I guess.


    Several of the bandits had stopped working - or pretending to work - and were staring back at Geralhd and the others. The two groups watched each other warily. cknail had told them to expect more humans, but they were still nervous about all the things that were happening to them that were beyond their control.


    If you want to keep these ruffians out of trouble, consider getting them some grog. Man cannot live on bread and water alone. Although, you also dont want them getting drunk, Beardy said before walking over to talk with the neers.


    cknail watched the two groups of humans mingle. The neers seemed to ept Beardy as an authority figure almost immediately. He only had to punch out one guy. Hmmm, cknail could use that. Once Beardy was done staring haughtily down at the neers and putting them in their ce, cknail approached him.


    Id like you stay here and be in charge until I get back. I need to visit Ironbreak and someone halfwaypetent has to be in charge here, cknail told him.


    Beardy gave the hobgoblin a skeptical look. Whats in it for me?


    A promotion, lots of gold, and you can actually spend it nearby, cknail huffed in reply.


    Beardy nodded. Thats a fair offer. I must admit that I dont feel any pressing need to get back to Shelter. So sure, for the properpensation, Ill watch these grunts for you.


    Ill be leaving quite a few hobgoblins and goblins as well. Keep them busy repairing this ce, and youre going to want a wall up as quickly as they can manage it, cknail informed him.


    Anything else? Maybe I should build a cathedral while Im here? Beardy asked sarcastically.


    Ignoring his tone, cknail scratched his nose and took a second to think before answering. Werricks new n is making him a lot of enemies. They may be weak, but try to gather up any more lost humans you hear about.


    Ill take care of that! Khita replied as she joined in the conversation. Ive already learned about a few leads while I was in town. To get the juiciest gossip, you have to know who to ask. Theres always someone who cant keep their mouth shut for even a second.


    cknail hesitated but eventually agreed to let Khita work on finding more men to recruit. Sure, her ipetence meant she was unlikely to aplish much, but it also meant that he could leave her behind and not deal with her stupidity for a while. cknail shuddered as he realized that Khita had been following him around almost constantly for months now. He couldnt even remember what it was like not having to worry about her popping out of nowhere. The things he did for vengeance


    Since there was no point in hanging around, and still plenty of light left in the day, cknail quickly organized everyone who was returning to Shelter and got them moving. He took three hobgoblins along and left the others behind at the forward base, but most of the humans that hade with him decided to return. Only half a dozen people from Shelter stayed with Beardy and Khita.


    cknail guided the returning party back over to the overgrown road which led to Shelter. It took them two days to reach their destination, but they managed to do it without any casualties, despite an attack by two harpies on an idiot who wandered off to piss. Geralhd and the other humans left the group when they reached the vige of Shelter, while the hobgoblins continued on to Ironbreak.


    The goblin settlement was still a buzzing hive of activity, so cknail quickly found himself forced to take charge. More and more hobgoblins were transforming and undergoing basic training and indoctrination. There were so many that the tribe had run out of swords. Thus, cknail was forced to start training the new hobgoblins with spears instead and keep the swords for marked warriors. Also, since he wasnt much of a spearman, cknail had to bring in some human experts to teach.


    The sudden surge in demand for spears meant that Ferrars forges had to work overtime to produce them. Carts full of charcoal constantly rolled into Ironbreak to feed the fires, and the hammering never stopped as hobgoblin smiths worked wrought iron into spear des. Other craftsman carefully produced the weapons shafts by shaping long pieces of wood and ckening it in fire to harden it. The results were crude weapons, but deadly and easy to use.


    The road crews were still working on cutting their way through the forest, but theyd slowed down as they got further from Ironbreak. cknail had to go out to motivate and reorganize them himself. It would still be a while before the road to Herstcrest was done, and the repairs to the road South had barely gotten started.


    Even after a week had passed, cknail was too busy to get back to the forward base. On top of everything else, Herah kept taking up a lot of his time. She was insatiable andpletely without shame. So, cknail had to send a supply caravan south instead of going himself. Two dozen hobgoblins apanied four huge pigs loaded with supplies. Four dayster, ten hobgoblins returned with the pigs. Theyd sessfullypleted their mission and delivered the supplies and reinforcements.


    When two weeks had passed, cknail finally managed to get everything back under control, and he was ready to lead another force South. This time, he didnt worry about humans. He assembled thirty hobgoblins, a simr number of goblins, and four pigs packed with supplies that the forward base couldnt make for itself. The goblins would be easier to feed at the forward base, where there was more forage.


    Unsurprisingly, the small army of heavily-armed goblinoids were not attacked by any beasts, and they made good time down the overgrown road.


    cknail was pleasantly surprised when he reached their destination. A few weeks had made quite the difference. It looked like the hobgoblins and goblins that hed left behind had been working hard. The forest and all the bushes had beenpletely pushed out of the vige. The roofs on all the stone homes that were still standing had also been thatched, and the holes in their walls had been patched. There was even some new construction. The beginnings of a crude wall simr to the one around Inronbreak could be seen, and off to the side, there was a long log cabin under construction. cknail had ordered his minions to start building a barracks as soon as possible, so that was probably it. To fufill its purpose, the forward base was going to have to be able to hold a lot of troops and supplies.


    Upon cknails arrival, Beardy leisurely strolled out of one of the huts and approached. So, youre back now. I see you brought a lot more hobgoblins.


    Theres lots of work to be done here, cknail replied.


    Beardy snorted rudely. Right, I suppose theyre all here to help build huts.


    cknail grinned and shook his head. No, the wall. We need to get that done before something nasty with teeth tries toe and eat my workers or you. Did anything important happen here while I was gone? Like attacks by things with lots of teeth?


    Well, if any goblins got picked off, I didnt notice it. Khita has been busy, though, Beardy admitted with a frown. She has actually managed to find a few more recruits.


    Really? cknail asked. He was surprised. Where had she found them, under a rock? Were they human?


    Ya, shes been travelling around the area, and on one of her trips she stumbled upon a dozen starving highwaymen. She apparently beat a few of them up and then the others joined her for the food. Things are getting pretty rough out there. Werrick is really cracking down on everything.


    cknail frowned. Where is Khita now?


    Out on the road, scouting and looking for more recruits. She should be back soon, though, Beardy replied. She only took half a dozen men with her. Thatss is way too overconfident in her own skills, even if she is a Vessel.


    Shes dumb, cknail agreed. But enough about her. Ive another job for you. All the hobgoblins here need trained to use their spears. I know you can do that.


    Sure, as long as I get paid for my effort, Beardy replied.


    After talking to Beardy for a bit more and giving him a few more yellow rocks, cknail inspected the base and then went to find some people to boss around. It didnt take him long to discover some minions that werent working fast enough in his opinion. Obviously, they needed to be motivated by some proper angry yelling and threats.


    Khita got back a few hourster, and she immediately sought cknail out when she learned he was there. She found him supervising the construction of the wall at the far end of the vige.


    Hey cknail, guess what! I found some new minions, she said as she ran over to him. There was very smug look on her face, which annoyed cknail.


    So Beardy told me, he replied neutrally. Good job, why dont youe help build this wall? Another pair of hands would help.


    Um, I have some more important stuff to do. See youter! Khita replied before hurrying away. cknail smirked after her. Hed been fairly certain that would work.


    cknail hung around the base for a few days, while supervising the work on the wall. It went quickly with him around to keep goblins and hobgoblins in line. There were dozens of them and they had ess to iron axes and shovels, so on the fourth day, theypleted the barrier. While the construction had been ongoing, Beardy had been drilling the hobgoblins on spear fighting tactics, and the work had finished on the first barracks. A second big building was already being nned.


    There was a smile on cknails lips as he as he walked away from thepleted wall. Everything was going ording to n. Now, he just needed to talk to Beardy.


    What is it? Beardy asked the hobgoblin stepped into his house.


    cknail smirked at the man. He was in for shock. It was time to stop concealing his real intentions. Now that I have a secure base, I n on taking control of the nearby roads. I want to start charging the merchants a toll, like Herad used to.


    I knew you were up to no good. Just scouting, my ass, Beardy swore. You must know that Werrick will respond, right? Even if things are still settling into ce, he is the unchallenged lord of the North, right now.


    cknail couldnt help himself. He startedughing, and it took him a few moments to stop. If only the humans knew. They still underestimated him so much.


    Thats the n, cknail exined to Beardy as he grinned savagely. The man seemed taken aback, but cknail couldnt help himself. He had been keeping this to himself for too long. He had to unburden himself and reveal to someone how amazing he truly was.


    It has taken so long to get here. So many dark nights and long days spent stewing in hatred and loss. Countless hours fighting my own hunger for revenge, cknail continued. Now, I will feast. The Wolf took my master. Did you think I would forgive or forget? No, he will die. I will rip his bleeding carcass apart with my bare hands and put his head on a spike.


    Oh, and how are you going to aplish that feat? Beardy asked carefully. In case you havent noticed, hes an undefeated Vessel, and hes got a massive army.


    cknail just kept grinning. I willy a trap for him. The right trap can catch any prey, and the Wolf has no idea that I am hunting him. He thinks himself invincible, and that I am one hobgoblin alone. He is deliciously wrong. When my minions show themselves on the road, the hobgoblins will disguise themselves and stay behind the humans. Everyone will think they are more dumb human bandits and nothing more. Thats the only reason I need you and the other humans.


    A sh of understanding appeared in Beardys eyes. If it looks like an organized band has seized this territory from him, he just might lead a small force of his own to destroy them. He wouldnt be able to trust the job to anyone else.


    But I am not some simple human thief, cknail agreed. I am so much more. When hees, I will meet him with hundreds of hobgoblins. We will hunt them in the dark and through the Green. My minions will st them with magic fire, and I am not without Vessels and allies. Like me, the vympirs are predators. The bloody scent of a weakened rival will draw them in.


    Beardy stared at cknail for several long seconds without saying anything. His face was frozen by shock and his mouth hung open. However, eventually, his jaw swung shut.


    It just might work. No, it will probably work, he admitted with obvious disbelief. He then turned to cknail and studied him. It was obvious he was re-evaluating everything hed thought he knew about the hobgoblin.


    Wait, you nned everything didnt you? Beardy said. He stuttered as a realization hit him. Everything that has happened since Herads fall, youve been manipting everyone. Us bandits, the people of Shelter, everyone. Its the only way you could have done this. It has fallen together too perfectly.


    cknail smirked in amusement. Yes, it wasnt that hard. Youre all just human, and it is easy to get into your heads. Your fear makes you prey. But you shouldnt worry about that. Think about what will happen when we defeat Werrick. The North will be ours. You could set yourself up as a king.


    Beardy hesitated, but then nodded in agreement. Fine, but my bloody name is Ralphi, not Beardy. Youd better start using it from now on, you moon-crazy hobgoblin. Enough with that cursed nickname or yours. Even if Im a king, if I have to reign as King Beardy, its not worth it.


    Sure, whatever, cknail replied. Beardy was his nickname? It wasnt a very good one. Why had he never brought up his real name before if he hated it so much? What a weirdo.

 Will of Iron 10

    Will of Iron 10


    Grinning, cknail walked out from behind a tree at the edge of the woods. He watched with barely contained excitement as his minions emerged from the forest at a run and suddenly surrounded the unexpecting caravan that was passing by. They moved in two groups. cknail and one party of bandits blocked the caravans way forward, while the other cut off their retreat. It was a fair-sized merchant convoy, containing fiverge wagons and over thirty people, but cknails minions had them outnumbered by a bit. This was going to be fun.


    There were cries of rm from both humans and pack beasts as the caravan came to a sudden stop. Weapons quickly appeared in the hands of many of the merchants and their guards. However, cknails bandits didnt attack, and the people in the caravan began to talk nervously amongst themselves as they waited for the bandits to make their move.


    cknail had organized his forces carefully to give off the right impression. Most of the minions hed brought were human, and the hobgoblins that were present were wearing hoods and keeping to the back. Theyd been ordered to keep out of sight, and were only really there to pad cknails numbers. Thus, the merchants undoubtedly thought all the bandits were human.


    When cknail thought the merchants had stewed long enough, he gave Beardy  who was standing right beside him  the go ahead. Er right, he was supposed to call the man Ralphi now. That was hard to remember.


    Hail the caravan! Ralphi yelled, which caused a brief stir among the merchants.


    I see you, and I know robbers when I see them. What do you want? one of their number yelled back a momentter. He was a portly man with a moustache, and judging by his fancy red coat, he seemed to be in charge of the caravan. If youre expecting an easy target, youre going to be disappointed. We will protect our cargo and our families with both our lives and cold steel.


    Well, youre in luck then, Ralphi replied. All we want is a little toll.


    The merchant scowled. And why would we give you criminals any of our hard-earned coin? We would starve if we let every ragged band of scavengers in the North walk over us, and were more than ready to defend whats ours.


    How about because we have you outnumbered and were far nastier fighters than a bunch of peddlers. Testing our resolve would be a mistake, Ralphi replied dryly.


    Maybe, but youre all deserters and cowards, or you wouldnt be out here. Attempt to harm our livelihoods or families and youll find out that we have stiffer spines than that.


    Hey, are you calling me a coward? Ive killed men for far less, Khita shouted as she stepped forward. The redhead was obviously trying to look angry, but it didnt work, and she immediately got several confused nces.


    Ralphi sighed loudly and red at the merchant. I think youll find our toll to be more than reasonable, and if you pay it, there will be no reason for your families to be involved at all.


    The lead merchant didnt seem convinced by Raplhis logic or scared enough to back down, so cknail decided it was time for him to step in. Scaring humans was his specialty, and as the leader, he was also the best arguer in the tribe.


    Still grinning, cknail sauntered out from among the other bandits. Immediately, most the merchants eyes were drawn to him, causing a new chorus of nervous chatter as they took in his unconcealed visage. He was a handsome hobgoblin.


    I think you should be smart and just pay the toll, cknail announced as he came to stop in front of his minions.


    There was silence for a moment, before the head merchant spoke up again. Youre him, arent you? The hobgoblin they call the cknail. I thought you were dead


    cknail nodded. Thats me, and Im not dead. Im the leader here. That means you need to do as I say.


    Er, how much is this toll of yours exactly? the head merchant asked. cknails arrival had clearly surprised him and forced him to reevaluate his position.


    Sighing, cknail scratched the side of his and put on a fake confused expression of his own. Im not good with counting. How about twenty silver coins? I like that number.


    The merchant hesitated. Twenty silvers wasnt a lot for a caravan the size of his, in fact it was rather low. That was fine with cknail, though. Only his human minions really needed coins anyway, and he wanted word of his low rates to spread.


    And youll let us pass unmolested if we give you the silver?


    Sure, I like shiny silvers, cknail replied with a happy nod.


    Just pay the money and I maybe I wont have to hurt you, Khita added.


    Hmm, alright, the merchant replied as he gave cknail and Khita a skeptical look. He seemed to have decided to ignore the redhead, which was a smart move.


    The hobgoblin ignored the mans expression and sent Ralphi forward to get the money. Soon after that, the caravan was once again headed down the road while the bandits watched from the edge of the forest.


    Do you think he bought the act? Ralphi asked.


    cknail nodded. Probably, you humans always think hobgoblins are dumber than you. Thats one of the many reasons youre so easy to kill. Plus, we had Khita with us, so he probably thinks were stupider than a hat made of rocks.


    Khita smiled smugly. Ya, Im an amazing actor. If I wasnt even better at robbing people, I might have be a temple yer.


    Ralphi ignored the redhead. Well, this is definitely a tale hell be telling everyone he meets, so we dont have to worry about that.


    Grinning, cknail agreed. Even if he doesnt talk, there will be plenty of other merchants who will. Werrick will hear of this soon, and he will know that Im the one in charge. Im a loose end. He had me defeated, but I escaped from right under his pink nose. He will be worried about me feeling back into the Green and want to finish me himself.


    The Wolf is who we really have to fool, Ralphi remarked. We dont want him to think this is a trap. If he brings all the troops and resources he has to bear, we wont be able to touch him.


    He is undefeated, and no one dares challenge him directly. He will be not suspect danger, and besides, he is trying to control a vast territory. He cant empty it toe after a hobgoblin, cknail replied as he gazed off toward the horizon above the trees. There, several tall white-peaked mountains rose above the forest.


    cknail took a moment to take in the scenery and think. The caravan was now out of sight, and on its way. It was inevitable now. Word of what hed just done would reach Werrick. Suppressing a sudden nervous twinge, the hobgoblin went back to work.


    Since the territory cknail had taken was quiterge and included three separate roads, he had to split up his minions and have groups patrol the other roads that didnt run near his base. Thankfully, he had trusted human minions he could put in charge of these patrols. They were knowledgeable enough to react properly to unexpected situations. On top of the patrols, cknail also sent out hobgoblin scout teams to watch for threats.


    The initial part of cknails scheme worked perfectly. More merchants passed through his territory and paid his toll. Despite some hostility, he wasnt forced to attack any of them. Thus, word soon spread of his low rates and honesty. This in turn attracted more merchants and travelers. When cknail himself wasnt present, a specially trained hobgoblin pretended to be him. It wasnt like the humans could tell the difference.


    There were a few unexpected wrinkles, though. Merchants werent the only people to pass through his territory. Soon, a group of refugees from the South entered his territory. They had been travelling with some peddlers for safety, but the peddlers didnt want to pay their toll.


    And they dont have the money? cknail asked Ralphi skeptically as he red at the refugees. His fee was next to nothing. How could they not have it? Sigh. They were making this ratherplicated for him. It was inconsiderate of them.


    cknail and Ralphi were both standing in the middle of the road. There were several more bandits behind them, and fifteen cowering refugees in front of them. The impoverished travelers were all on foot and wearing ragged clothing, although they did have one small cart and three donkeys. Off to the side were the peddlers. Theyd paid their part of the toll and were now obviously trying to stay out of sight and mind.


    They say they dont, and I believe them, Ralphi replied with an unsympathetic shrug.


    cknail groaned. So, do we drop the price or kill them as a lesson for the others?


    Er, I dont think they have any money left, and killing them wouldnt really convince other refugees to carry more money. Thats not how that works. Their homes were destroyed by an enemy army. If they had some way of getting their hands on coin they wouldnt be here.


    What would Herad do in this situation? cknail asked him.


    Ralphi shrugged. Kill some of them, take the young women prisoner as entertainment for the men, and chase away the rest. Of course, that was before her doomed territory grabbing scheme. Im not sure what she would have done after that.


    I dont suppose any of them are swordsmiths? cknail asked. Ferrar was still looking for one of those.


    Ralphi snorted. As if, anyone with a skill like that would be scooped up by the closest army faster than a solider spends his pay.


    cknail walked forward and addressed the crowd of refugees, as they fearfully fell back away from him. Are you useful for anything? Or, should I just kill you all?


    A tall woman in a dirty dress with a determined look on her face stepped forward. We are far from useless. Were upright and hardworking people. You wont find hardier folk than us. Times have simply been tough and made us desperate.


    And what was it you used to work so hard at? cknail asked her.


    Well, mostly were farmers. Admittedly, thats not exactly a sought-after skill up here in the North, Mr. cknail, but were good people just looking for safety. Our vige was destroyed by King Namirius armies and we had no choice but to flee up here, lest all our menfolk get conscripted by the Baron and us women forced into bing camp followers. Were just looking for a second chance. By the gods graces, please find it within yourself to let us pass.


    cknail gave her a nk stare. No.


    Shock and despair disced the determined look on the womans face. She looked like she was about to cry. So, this the end. After all weve been through, were to be killed by a monster and his gang of Northern brutes.


    cknail rolled his eyes. We could do that too, but actually Ive got a whole bunch ofnd I need farmed, and I know some human viges to the North where you could live. They are looking for people.


    The woman blinked in surprise. Really?


    Yes, they used to be cut off by the forest, but I saved them. I do that a lot, cknail told her.


    A lean man that was holding the hand of a child found the courage to speak up. And youre not taking us as ves or anything?


    That would be more work than its worth. Ill just drop you off at a vige and you can settle there and help them grow food. None of them keep ves and Ive got plenty of stuff to trade for food anyway, cknail replied. There might also be some charges for road use and protectionter, but he didnt need to bring those up right now.


    As the peddlers were sent further up the road, the refugees were gathered up by Ralphi and taken to the forward base. cknail expected the supply caravan to get back soon, and then he could send the refuges with them back to Shelter.


    Days passed. After the first group of refugees was sent North, more of them began to arrive. It seemed that word of a safe haven fore refuges had been spread by the peddlers. It said a lot about how desperate people were that they even considered throwing themselves at the mercy of a hobgoblin, although apparently many people considered cknail to be Ralphis figurehead. Some people even thought Khita was the real chieftain, which was really dumb.


    However, refugees and merchants werent the only people who were attracted by rumors of cknails operation. Thugs and ruffians began to show up looking for work as bandits. cknail was always looking for new minions, but he wasnt sure how useful or trustworthy these new people would be. Most of them seemed to be out to earn a quick profit, and probably couldnt be trusted to stand firm in a fight with Werricks troops. There was also the matter of possible spies. Now that cknails activities weremon knowledge, it would be surprising if various people didnt try to send spies to infiltrate his tribe and learn more about him and his goals. After talking the situation over with Ralphi, cknail decided to ept the new recruits, but he had each of them shadowed by a hobgoblin. If they tried to leave or meet up with any outsiders, they wouldnt get far.


    News from the South also began to reach cknails minions. It seemed like the human wars had grown more intense. The king of Eloria had invaded Hulgaron again, and the nobility there had allied to repulse him. That meant that a new round of conscription had been started, and that was why so many refugees were headed north.


    After things had been going smoothly for a few weeks, cknail left the forward base in the hands of Ralphi and went back to Ironbreak to check on things there. Hed been away for a while, and there were things he needed to do. It was early yet, but it was possible that Werrick might react soon. cknail had to be ready, just in case. He left behind a further expanded forward base. Alongside the repaired homes, it had fourrge barracks. The walledplex housed almost a hundred troops.


    Once back at Ironbreak, cknail met up with Gob and his other supervisors. None of them had too much to report. Hed left them all with lots of work that they were still struggling to aplish. Ferrar was running the forges, while Imp busied himself making mana stones, and Rolly managed the food supply.


    When he was sure no one was cking off or doing something wrong, cknail began rounding up hobgoblins and organizing an army. It was time to make all the ckers earn their meals. Although some hobgoblins already had important permanent jobs, such as craftsmen or supervisors, a lot of them floated around and did temporary work. It was these that cknail formed into the bulk of his force. Unfortunately, this meant that work on side projects, like clearing the roads, ground to halt. However, cknail soon had over a hundred hobgoblins training to fight in formation with spears. Among them, there were two dozen warriors with swords. cknail trusted them to fight better and harder than the others. They were probably even a match for an average human bandit one-on-one.


    Whenbined with the forces already at the forward base, cknail would have well over two hundred troops. Honestly, the hobgoblin chief was surprised about how well things were going and how obedient his minions were being. Everything seemed to be running on momentum. He had the hobgoblins working so hard that they didnt have time to question it. Everyone else was obeying, so they did too. Every hobgoblin could feel the energy in the air and knew that significant events were underway. Even if none of them understood what was happening, they didnt want to be left behind.


    The other thing cknail needed to do was send a message to Herstcrest. He didnt have time to go himself, so he had Geralhd write a letter for him, and nned to send some hobgoblins to deliver it. He didnt trust a hobgoblin to remember his exact words, and the details were important.


    In the letter, cknail informed Ilisiti that Werrick might be showing himself soon, and that he would probably be brining a small army with him. This would obviously prevent the vympir from bringing in more of his people from his oldnds in the West. The letter also politely informed the vympir that this meant cknail would be forced to recall the hunters hed lent him and stop work on the roads until the Wolf problem was solved. Perhaps, Ilisti might want to prepare his own men toe help kill the Wolf, especially if he was vulnerable? That would certainly eliminate the biggest threat to Herstcrest.


    Yes, I think this is the proper phrasing and tone for such a message, Geralhd remarked as he finished writing down cknails words.


    I didnt threaten him at all. I was all subtle, and just told him what his own interests are. Hed be stupid not to send troops to fight Werrick, and now he cant ignore that truth. A lot of humans avoid the obvious until it starts biting their face, cknail said. He was speaking from experience. Sometimes he was the obvious.


    When the letter was ced in a secure pouch, cknail gave it to a pair of scouts, and they hurried off to deliver it. After that, cknail no longer had any pressing business that needed his attention, so he took some time off to rx. He set aside an entire day for napping and eating, and assigned a bodyguard with a club to chase away anyone but Gob that tried to approach him. Sometimes it was nice to just sleep on a full stomach and not have to worry about other peoples stupid problems.


    Unfortunately, when his break day was over, cknail had to get back to work. In particr, he needed to help train the army. They had to get used to obeying orders from him, and he had to know what orders to give. It turned out that leading an army involved more than just pointing out the enemy and giving the attack order. Thankfully, some of his human minions who had been in a real army were able to give him some pointers.


    However, cknail didnt have unlimited time. After a few days, a pair of runners reached Ironbreak. Theyde from the forward base with news from Ralphi. Werrick was moving. Rumors were already swirling. They said the Wolf was moving to crush the upstarts that had dared to steal territory from him. Some peddlers had also reported seeing troops on the move.


    It was time. cknail sent Ilisti another message and then ordered his army out onto the road. He took Gob with him and left Rolly in charge. cknail didnt really care too much about Ironbreak right now, and he wanted his best minion with him. Killing Werrick and avenging Saeter was all that mattered.

 Will of Iron 11

    Will of Iron 11


    cknails army moved through the forest with more confidence than thergest of drakes. They trampled the undergrowth and made no attempt to hide their presence as they travelled south along the abandoned road. They were at home in the Green and there was safety in numbers. Even a drake would hesitate when confronted by over a hundred hobgoblins marching in formation with spears over their shoulders, if only out of surprise. This was a degree of cooperation that waspletely alien to the nature of hobgoblins. Any watcher would have doubted their eyes. This wasnt something that could have happened in the world they knew, but that world was gone, and a new one was being born.


    Under cknails watchful eye, the ckmark war party moved at a quick pace until they reached their forward base. Anyggards or slouchers quickly learned to fear cknails attention. Gob and him were both quick to punish anyone that stepped out of line.


    Once they got to their destination, cknail marched his troops inside and began settling them into ce. A fourth barracks was almostpleted, but they were still short of shelter for everyone. It was a good thing that all the hobgoblins were rugged and used to conditions that would have dismayed a human. They thought nothing of sleeping outside and could quickly scavenge up some shelter.


    Thanks to word sent ahead by scouts, Ralphi immediately came out to greet cknail and help organize everything. Werricks forces have set up near the border of our territory. Theyre sending out scouts - which I have hobgoblins watching  but Im not exactly sure what theyre up to. I was expecting them to be more aggressive. Right now, all they seem to be doing is diverting any caravans headed in our direction.


    cknails eyes narrowed as he listened intently. How many humans are there, and is Werrick with them? This is pointless unless we trap the Wolf.


    Your scouts have reported around three hundred enemy troops, although most of them cant count very well, so that may be not be the most urate count. They all seem to be the usual bandit rabble, with no cavalry or heavy infantry support. As for Werrick, his personal g is flying and some of the scouts have imed to have seen someone matching his description. I believe them too. Werrick is hard to miss.


    Good. Good, cknail replied with an excited smirk. That was more troops than hed been hoping to face, but the n was still workable. As long as Werrick didnt know what he was up against, he would let his guard drop, and cknail had several surprises ready that could even the odds.


    Once the new troops were billeted, cknail began organizing another supply caravan. Even with hunting and foraging, it was going to be difficult to keep the army and the forward base supplied. When that was done, Ralphi had some requests.


    Id like to start training the new troops with the ones you left here with me. The hobs you brought with you seem to know one end of a spear from the other, but there is a lot more to being a soldier than that. They need to drill and learn to move and fight in formation. To fight Werricks men, theyre going to need every advantage they can get, but a proper wedge of spears should help even things up considerably.


    Spears are better than swords? cknail asked. He didnt have much experience with them.


    Ralphi snorted. When used right, they are. Theyre just not the easiest weapon to haul across the North, and most bandits arezy bums. They prefer a weapon they can strap to their hip or back and forget about, and Ive yet to meet a chief that ran formation drills.


    Since cknail had no ns to attack Werrick in strength for a while yet, he gave Ralphi permission to run some exercises for the troops and had Gob help him. Even though Werrick was tantalizingly close  cknail could almost smell him on the wind  patience was required. The trap had not yet closedpletely. The prey had to be drawn in further.


    After talking to Ralphi a bit more, cknail came up with his next move. He was going to irritate Werrick with a hundred small cuts. That would hopefully anger the Wolf and lure him in, while also giving his troops a chance to train. There was also the matter of reinforcements. cknail was still hoping to get some. Attacking three hundred human thugs with his current forces would end badly for him. His hobgoblins were not equal to human bandits in a one on one fight. Not only were they slightly smaller, but they were also far less experienced.


    Thus, to begin his n to even the odds, cknail rounded up his best scouts and sent them out in small groups to harass Werrick and blind him by taking out his rangers and sentries. They also had orders to attack and kill the men Werrick was using to divert caravans if possible. cknail was confident that his hobgoblins would make quick work of Werricks rangers. cknail was also extremely tempted to go with them. He wanted to hunt and cut his way closer to his prey, however slowly, but he resisted the urge. Herad hadnt led scouting missions. As the leader, she had needed to be at the center of things where she could be found by everyone and quickly takemand.


    However, once his hobgoblin stalkers left toplete their mission, cknail began to feel anxious. There was nothing more he could do personally. He wasnt even able to help much with the troops training, although he did take part a few times so that he could learn all themands Ralphi was using. Days passed uneventfully, and cknail grew sullen. He spent his free time watching the road for any signs of movement. That wasnt the best use of his time, but he was tired of waiting around and wanted something to happen. Both Khita and Herah tried to talk to cknail  in Herahs case she wanted more than talk  but he sent them away with a snarl. He was in no mood to talk. Instead, he kept waiting and watching.


    As time passed, the scouts kept reporting no movement from Werricks troops, even though he was slowly losing men. cknail had expected the Wolf to react at least a little to that. What was he doing? Argh! Was there something here that hed missed?


    It wasnt until a few days had gone by that cknails questions were answered. When he was eating lunch back at the base, a pair of anxious looking scouts ran over to deliver him news. Anotherrge mob of human troops was approaching from the other direction. They numbered over a hundred. cknail scowled and grunted in frustration. These humans were obviously reinforcements for Werrick, and if they met up with him he would have well over four hundred soldiers. That was far too many for cknail to risk attacking with his two hundred hobgoblins.


    We could ambush them before they met up with their boss, Ralphi suggested.


    cknail grimaced and shook his head. We would still lose troops and Werrick would learn of our strength and hidden weapons. We will wait and see what happens. The Wolf is our true target.


    That was all they could do. That was all cknail could do. Despair and anger welled up within the hobgoblin, but he kept it under control by enforcing the disciplined thinking Saeter had taught him during sword training. Hed had a lot of practice when it came to suppressing his emotions, and it wasnt over yet. There might be still be a way to get to Werrick. He had to be patient.


    As more reports form the scouts filtered in, a clearer picture of what was happening began to emerge. Much to both cknail and Ralphis surprise, the new division of troops didnt move to join Werrick. Instead, they took up position on the main road at the edge of cknails territory, and Werrick sent a hundred of his own troops to join them.


    Hes boxing us in, Ralphi observed as thetest scout finished his report. He didnt bring so many troops because he was expecting heavy resistance. He brought them so that he could encircle us. He thinks were a normal robber band hiding in the woods, so hes trying to iste us and starve us out.


    Its a mistake, cknail observed as his anxiety began to drain away and be reced by excitement.


    Ralphi nodded and grinned. Yep, it seems like he is underestimating us after all. We have more than enough men to bring either of his divisions to battle. And although he has no way of knowing it, we could also just slip away through the Green or keep getting supplied almost indefinitely by Ironbreak.


    He knows Im here, but he doesnt know that Im no longer just a ranger, cknail mused aloud as he tried to get inside his preys head. He isnt sure that he can get me, since I can slip away into the Green, and Im the real threat to him. But, if he ughters all my human allies then that will scare away any others who I might recruitter. I would be defanged if no one dared work with me.


    Ralphiughed. Shows what he knows. Men arent even a quarter of your forces anyway.


    He has no eyes in the Green, thus he cannot see my strength, cknail agreed. So, let the Wolf think his n is working, while we prepare to strike.


    You are the most cunning and mightiest leader in the North, chief! The Wolf will soon be dead at your awesome feet. Gob added with an enthusiastic nod. cknail just rolled his eyes.


    Both divisions of Werricks forces began sending outrge armed patrols of around fifty men to probe into cknails territory. By this time, all merchant traffic had been stopped already, so the patrols were undoubtedly meant to scout the roadways for signs of cknails camp. They were also probably bait, meant to draw cknail out, so instead of attacking them directly, cknail simply harassed them. He had his minions fire at them from concealment and then fade away, while he watched and waited for the right opportunity.


    That opportunity arrived at noon the next day with his reinforcements. Guided by hobgoblins, a force from Herstcrest arrived. They numbered only around thirty heavy infantry, but Ilisti was leading them. They were escorting a supply caravan from Ironbreak, which was led by Imp, and Geralhd was with them. cknail hadnt invited him, but hed wanted to see what was going on.


    cknail hurried over to talk to Imp first. The hobgoblin mage had brought a dozen hobgoblin and goblin helpers, and they were carrying the equipment cknail had asked for. cknail grinned as he studied it, and then greeted Ilisti and called for a war conference, which Khita wasnt invited to. Now that cknail had magical support, the next priority was bringing Ilisti up to speed and making sure he wasmitted to helping. The noble vympir had his own concerns and motivations. He wasnt cknails servant and had to be handled carefully.


    Hmm, this might be workable after all, Ilisti remarked thoughtfully after hed learned of the situation from Ralphi. I wasnt sure what to expect when I got here.


    We will never have a better chance to kill the Wolf. He has walked into our trap unaware, and with him gone, no one in all the North will be able to threaten us, cknail agreed.


    Quite a few people here also owe him for killing our poorpanions and chasing us survivors into Green, Geralhd remarked sourly as Ralphi grunted in vague agreement. Now that all the hard work had been done they didnt mind getting some vengeance.


    So, do you have a n of attack, then? Ilisti asked the hobgoblin. Whats our first target? There are several options. Do you want to start taking out the patrols? They are the obvious first step.


    cknail shook his head. My target hasnt changed. Its Werrick. The other humans are nothing. We strike him when he is weakest, after sending out a patrol. Then, we surround his camp and attack with everything we have before he realizes the danger he is in. That is how we catch him. He must not have a chance to escape.


    Ilisti grinned and nodded. I like it. Its a bold and aggressive strategy. Worthy of a warrior. We go for his throat before he has a chance to raise his defenses.


    Ralphi wasnt so sure, though. He grimaced. That n will pit our hobgoblin forces directly against Werricks human troops. The entire battle n will depend on them, and they are untested. If they can stay in a tight formation and remember the drills they should be able to push Werricks men back, but if not


    They will hold. I will make sure they all know the price of failure, cknail replied darkly. If he had to beat the training into every single hobgoblin personally, he would. That probably wouldnt be necessary, though. This was why hed brought Gob.


    When they were done nning, cknails minions and allies took a day off to rest and make some final reparations. Supplies were packed up and cknail oversaw thest training regimen.


    When the day of the attack came, cknails forces and allies got up just as the sun was beginning to peek above the horizon. It was still dark out as the hobgoblins and bandits grabbed their gear and formed up into lines. As the morning chorus of birdsong began, they were marching down the road.


    Scouts ranged far ahead to detect patrols and silence sentries as they marched toward Werricks camp. They used a back road that slowed their pace but allowed them to circle around and hopefully avoid any early morning patrols. cknail led the main party. Behind him marched almost three hundred troops, both human and hobgoblin. Beside him were Ilisti and Ralphi, while Imp and cknails human minions were mixed in with the troops. Geralhd had remained behind to oversee the base, and Khita was leading her own followers.


    Pride and excitement filled cknail. He had done it! Hed built his army. The idea had seemed impossible all those months ago when hed first had the idea, but here he was, marching an army toward his nemesis. Sure, hed originally nned on having more humans and far less hobgoblins, but that didnt matter. Soon, his forces would engage the Wolfs, and he would have his chance at vengeance. Blood would pay for blood, and Saeter would be avenged. The Wolf would finally realize the error hed made in taking from cknail. After Werricks decapitated head was decorating a spike in Ironbreak, no one would dare do that again.


    As they approached their target, scouts returned and reported that a patrol of fifty men had just left Werricks camp and was heading away down the main road. From experience, cknail knew that they wouldnt be returning before noon, and that was more than enough time. With a savage grin, cknail ordered his forces toe to halt and called hismanders and allies to a meeting.


    We will split into two groups and attack with fury and speed, cknail exined. First my rangers will go in and clear out their sentries. Then, my spearbearers and Ilistis men will charge through the front, while I take the rangers and skirmishers and go attack their back through the Green. Gob and Ralphi willmand my spearbearers and Imp will support them.


    Very well, that sounds workable, Ilisti agreed. My troops and I will aid in the frontal assault. I look forward to shing with this Wolf, and any false-blood champions he may have in his service. I doubt theyve ever seen a true nobles might.


    Since the vympir was the only one who didnt have to obey cknail, that meant the n was a go. After ending the meeting, cknail needed time to get into position, so he quickly went and ordered his irregrs to follow him as he headed off into the trees. There, several hobgoblin rangers that had scouted ahead led him toward his target. They looped around the enemy and approached them from the back. Khita and Herah both tried to apany cknail, but he sent Khita back to the main force. She had her own troops to look after.


    Once away from the bushes that grew in the sun along the road, the hobgoblins passed into the shadowy depths beyond. Here, the thick canopy overhead that blocked out the rising sun was supported by countless tall trees. Some of the thinner trunks had white bark that peeled away like paper and others had dark brown bark that was thick and scaly. The ground was clear of anything but small nts, but it was uneven, and tangles of roots jutted up from the dark earth. However, the hobgoblin irregrs moved through the forest with silent stealth and swift ease. Every one of them had been born into the Green and knew it well.


    Soon, they passed a pair of fallen human sentries with slit throats that had been left to bleed out at the base of a tree. A few minutester, the edge of the forest appeared in front of them. The trees thinned and then became a hedge of thorny bushes. Here, there was another dead human sprawled out on the ground, and two hobgoblins scouts with long cloaks waiting. cknail gave them an approving nod as he slowed and walked over to the bushes. Peering through them, he saw Werricks camp.


    The Wolf has set up in a clearing next to the road. It wasnt a very defensible spot, as it could be approached from every direction. However, there was a fair stretch of open ground to cross until the first rows of tents and the camp proper started. That would have made it difficult for a small group to sneak in unseen, but that wasnt cknails n this time. When he moved, he would have a distraction and he would be doing it in force.


    The camp was made up of a severalrge clusters of blue triangr tents. cknail recognized them from Werricks attack on Herads base. Around the tents, countless humans walked and worked. There were also a few wagons and horses. cknails eyes were drawn to onerge round tent in the center of the camp. A wolfs head g flew above it, marking it as Werricks own.


    Behind cknail, his troops formed a loose battle line. All the hobgoblins wore mismatched outfits made up of looted human gear and tanned hides. They also carried a mix of weapons such as swords, axes, and spears. However, they were all wearing bloodthirsty smiles. The looming prospect of violence excited them, and an unsuspecting enemyy before them.


    Were ready, boss. Just give the word, Herah told cknail.


    Soon, the hobgoblin chief replied as he turned to stare at Werricks tent. Soon, my long hunt will be over. Soon, my thirst for the Wolfs blood will finally be sated.

 Will of Iron 12

    Will of Iron 12


    Turning to stare intently at Werricks tent, cknail waited for the signal that would announce the beginning of Gob and Ilistis assault. Fidgeting, he licked his lips and ran his tongue over the sharp points of his teeth. His minions should already be moving into ce, but it was hard to wait for them. cknails chest felt tight and ufortable as anxiety bubbled up within him.


    Suddenly, several of Werricks men near the road began shouting. Soon, the cry was taken up by others and the entire camp came alive as bandits began running around in every direction. It looked like someone had finally spotted the ckmark tribes main force approaching. Finally! Hidden in the bushes at the edge of the clearing, cknail grinned and watched themotion intently.


    Judging by all the panic, it seemed like cknails force had caught the enemy off guard with their sudden assault. The Wolf wasnt a fool, though. Despite being surprised by the sudden appearance of an army from nowhere, it was obvious that Werrick hadnt allowed his troops to ck off. Hed obviously been expecting cknail to try something, even if he didnt know what. Not only had he posted severalyers of sentries, but as cknail watched, over a third of Werricks forces quickly formed up into ranks and marched toward the road. The Wolf had kept quite arge portion of his army ready for action. That was annoying, but to be honest, cknail hadnt really expected things to go too easily.


    Annoyed and still anxious, cknail scowled as he watched bandits run back and forth through the camp. Within a few moments, almost all the camp would be up and armed. Still, cknail waited and his patience was rewarded as he spotted someone emerge from the big tent at the center of the enemy camp. It was a tall muscr man wearing a long fur cloak and a helmet shaped like a wolfs head. A spike of hungry excitement stabbed through cknails chest as he watched the man march over toward the road and the troops forming up there. Atst. Werrick had shown himself. Saeters killer was right where cknail wanted him.


    Most of Werricks force was armed now, although there were lots of stragglers still rushing around. Then, on the road across the camp, cknails main force appeared. Holding up rows of spears, they marched toward the enemy at a quick pace. From this distance, it was hard to tell that most of the attackers werent human. The hobgoblins scavenged gear covered most of their skin. cknail wished he was close enough to see the reaction of the human bandits when they realized what they were fighting.


    When Werrick reached his troops, he began yelling, and the entire formation started moving to cut off their attackers advance. Although more men were still running out to join Werrick, the camp was mostly empty now. It wasnt unguarded, though. A small rearguard of about a dozen men had stayed behind. Werrick was still ying it safe, and that frustrated cknail. He couldnt see a way to get to Werrick before the two main forces collided. By then, Ilisti would probably get to him first. cknail wanted to be the one to snuff the life from the Wolf.


    As the wedge of hobgoblin spearmen marched toward the mob of human bandits, there was a sudden boom. Immediately, a twisting ball of air shot out from near the center of Werricks troops and zoomed toward their charging enemy. That was what cknail had been waiting for. Werrick had deployed his mage. His attention was nowpletely focused forward.


    Now! Charge like your ugly green asses are on fire, or they will be! Thest hob into battle gets my sword in his guts, cknail roared at his nearby minions as he burst out of the bushes and began running into the clearing.


    His screaming minions immediately charged after their boss. His threats wrere entirely unnecessary. The hobgoblin irregrs outnumbered the enemy rearguard three to one, and that was the kind of odds hobgoblins liked. The thought of easy prey drew them like moths to a me. Every one of them wanted a piece, so they raced forward in a ferocious mob.


    On the other side of the camp, the air was shaken by a big boom. Imp had countered the enemy mages st by throwing a ball of force of his own, using the mage staff hed imed before. The two magic sts had collided and nullified each other, allowing the spearmen to continue marching forward. Meanwhile, three of Imps apprentices slung ming mana crystals at Werricks men. The fiery projectiles sizzled as they rose up into the air and then descended. Unfortunately, it seemed Werrick had brought a secondbat mage, because a wave of twisting air shot up from the bandits nk and knocked the fireballs aside. That didnt deter Imps assistants from throwing another volley of them, though. Soon, magecraft was flying back and forth with abandon, although very little of it hit anything. Both sides prioritized defense and became stuck in a magical deadlock.


    As cknail charged them, the rearguard quickly noticed the line of screaming hobgoblins charging out of the forest. Several flinched and yelled out in shock, but they didnt run. Instead, they closed ranks and prepared to meet his charge. It didnt help them much. cknail had gulped down a vial of Elixir and its power flowed through him as he ran. As cknail lunged forward, he released a wave of gut twisting fear that washed over the bandits and weakened their resolve. One of them stumbled as dread wormed its way into his mind, and cknail cut him down with a lightning fast flick of his de. Then, before the other nearby bandits could recover, cknail unleashed a flurry of shes that cut deep into flesh and forced them back. That was when the swarm of hobgoblins hit. Smelling blood, they mmed into the humans and began tearing them apart with little regard for their own safety. There were agonized screams as the crude assortment of weapons sent blood gushing from gaping wounds.


    As his minions vented their fury, cknail stepped through the carnage and focused on what was happening up ahead. There was a n. He had to focus on it. Having cut a path through the rearguard, he needed keep his eye on his true prey, Werrick.


    Ahead of him, the sts of energy thrown by the mages died out as the two sides finally met, but then one final burning projectile shot up from Werricks troops. It was a whistling purple fireball, and after rising straight up into the air, it exploded into arge bright star shape. The bang from explosion stung cknails ears, but the spell didnt do any real damage to anything. Unfortunately, it didnt have to. cknail suspected he knew the spells purpose. It was a signal that could be seen for miles. Now that both sides were locked inbat, Werrick had summoned reinforcements. His patrol would see the sign and return immediately. Even the other enemy division might see it ande to investigate. That wasnt good, but it didnt change cknails options. He had to win this fight as soon as possible.


    As the armies shed, Werrick roared and ordered his men forward into the wedge of hobgoblin spears. The first row of humans was brought down by the sharp points of hobgoblin spears, but then the second row bullied their way past. Many of those humans screamed and fell as spears pierced them, but then the third row of bandits attacked, and the two sides became locked in a tight brutal melee. At first, neither side gave ground, however the weight of the stronger humans began to push the hobgoblins back.


    That was when Werrick himself joined the fight. The big man with the wolf helmet pushed past his troops and pulled a huge longsword off his back. With all the spear tips already pushed aside or stuck in other people, there was nothing to stop him from driving his de into the closest hobgoblin. That hobgoblin died instantly  skewered like a cooked meat on a stick  and then Werrick was hacking and shing his way forward. Hobgoblins began falling left and right as the Wolfs de tore into them, and the entire formation of spearmen began to tremble and fall apart. Sensing weakness, the human bandits pushed forward to seize the advantage.


    Thankfully, cknail had his own allies. Werricks advance had not gone unnoticed by Ilisti. Unafraid, the vympir lord led his men straight toward the thickest fighting. In several ces, he simply grabbed hobgoblins that were in his way and tossed them aside. Without slowing, Ilisti drew his own longsword and shed at Werrick, who was pushed back by the blow. The two armored figures began fighting. Their des nged as they met repeatedly, but neither seemed to have an immediate advantage. As the vympirs men joined the battle around their master, they stiffened the hobgoblins resolve and the ckmark force stopped yielding ground and began pushing back.


    cknail growled impatiently as he watched and waited. Thankfully, it was at that moment that his minions finally got into ce. Several of Imps assistants reached his side and began pulling out red mana crystals. Behind them, thest of the rearguard was swarmed over by hobgoblins and died messily.


    Keep your shots low. Hit their backs. If you go over their heads Ill kick your brains out, cknail told the mages as they worked.


    They quickly nodded or blurted out quick affirmations, and a momentter, they were ready to strike. Slings were out and loaded with their ammunition.


    cknail smiled viciously and dly gave the order. Fire.


    The hobgoblins obeyed, and as the mana crystals begin to burn, they wereunched at the back of Werricks troops. Preupied by his sword fight with Ilisti, the Wolf wasnt aware of the strike until the fireballs hit the back rank of his troops and exploded. Without warning, men were torn apart by vicious explosions, and then a wave of fire washed over them. The mes singed and ckened flesh as they tried to consume everything in their way. Over a dozen of Werricks men died instantly, more were wounded, and the remainder were stunned by the unexpected explosions at their backs. Many of them were preupied fighting hobgoblins and couldnt even turn to see what was happening. They just knew it was bad, and most likely very bad.


    cknailughed like a madman as he took the sight. Boom! Roasting humans was always fun, especially when they served the Wolf. With the rearguard defeated, the hobgoblin irregrs had formed up behind him. So, with a wave of his hand, cknail ordered them forward and signaled for his mages to cover their advance with another barrage. As the hobgoblins surged toward the fight, three fireballs flew over them toward Werricks troops.


    However, only one of the fireballs hit. Forewarned, one of Werricks mages had gotten himself into position to defend against the attack. A transparent shield of shimmering blue appeared and blocked two of the fireballs. However, the one remaining fireball sted several enemies off their feet and set them ame. They screamed as they rolled across the ground.


    With him at their lead, cknails troops yelled bloodthirsty warcries as they charged toward the enemys exposed rear. However, since they were in the way, the hobgoblin mages couldntunch anymore fireballs. The enemy mage was quick to take advantage of this. He lowered his shield and began throwing force sts at the charging hobgoblins. There was a loud crunch as a st mmed into a hobgoblin to cknails left and threw him backwards. However, the irregrs were spread out. The mage kept firing, but all the magical attacks either took out a single target or missedpletely. They couldnt stop the mob, but just in case, cknail kept his head low. There was no point in making himself a target.


    As cknail raced toward the enemy, Werrick changed his strategy. cknail was too close to the press of bodies to see clearly, but there was a sudden surge of activity around the Wolf. There was a muffled boom and all the spears near him were knocked aside. At the same time, all thebatants swayed slightly as if surprised or hit by a strong gust of wind. Whatever hed done, Werrick even somehow managed to push Ilisti and his men back a few steps. This gave the Wolf a quick reprieve, and he didnt waste it. He began falling back and organizing a retreat. cknail could hear him yell out orders, and his men leapt to obey without question.


    However, cknail was forced to turn away and focus on things closer to hand. He was almost upon the enemy, so he drew his sword and threw himself at the closest bandit. The back rank of the enemy had had more than enough time to turn around and face the attack from cknails irregrs, but they were still shocked and unorganized after being sted by magical fire. As cknails irregrs closed in, he ran down the bandits line. Hacking and shing, he ruthlessly attacked every bandit in his way as he worked toward his true goal, Werrick. The bandit lord was making his way toward the back of the formation.


    The hobgoblin irregrs mmed into the enemy. They were outnumbered, but they had momentum and all they had to do was hold the enemy in ce. Ilisti and the spearhobs had recovered and were pressing the attack from the other side. With Werrick gone, they were ughtering the human bandits.


    That was when Werrick suddenly reappeared. He burst out of the back of the enemy formation and began cutting down hobgoblin irregrs, opening a path for his forces to retreat through. Immediately, cknail shifted course. He backed away from a stumbling bandit hed been about to cut down and began moving to intercept the Wolf. A blond human in leather armor with an axe tried to block him, but cknail ducked under his swing and sliced his leg open. Blood sprayed from the wound and the man fell screaming, but cknail ignored him and moved on.


    Cutting down one more bandit and shoving another man aside, cknail approached Werrick. The Wolf had just finished killing a hobgoblin and was focusing on trying to get his men moving. His formally gleaming armor was sttered by blood and his long fur cloak was torn, but he didnt look injured. Instead, he dominated the space around himself, like a giant. Even through his fury, cknail felt momentarily impressed by the sight of the tall man as his gaze swept his way. Werricks silver helm bore the visage of a snarling wolf.


    This is unreal. Where are you crittersing from? Werrick asked as he raised his longsword. This doesnt make any sense.


    Stifling his doubts, cknail readied himself and rushed in. At the same time, Werrick swung his weapon around and took a casual sh at him. cknail saw the blowing. As it whipped toward his face, the hobgoblin chieftain readied himself for a fierce fight. He gripped his own de tightly and let out a deep breath. Deadly calm, but with fire burning in his guts, cknail faced Saeters killer head on.

 Will of Iron 13

    Will of Iron 13


    Werricks sword cut through the air as it zoomed toward cknails face. However, the hobgoblin was ready. He ducked under the attack and stepped forward. Behind his wolf helmet, a brief frown appeared on Werricks face as cknail then stabbed upward at the mans unarmored armpit. To ward off the blow, Werrick was forced to take a step back and swing his weapon around into a guard position. cknail didnt stay still either. That would be stupid against such a powerful opponent. Still moving, he circled around to find a new opening in the mans stance.


    Theres definitely something different about you, Werrick remarked as the battle raged on around him.


    Over his leather, the Wolf was wearing a chainmail shirt with steel pauldrons and bracers on his arms. He towered over cknail by over a foot - if you didnt include the hobgoblins horns  and he must have weighed over twice as much. cknail didnt care about that, though. Hed hunted big game before, and this was his greatest enemy. His only real rival and the killer of his master. He had to die.


    Hissing with barely contained fury, cknail burned Elixir and feinted left. When Werrick moved to counter the feint, cknail quickly turned and shed right instead with unnatural speed. His de nicked Werricks arm and drew blood, although it was but a tiny wound. As Werrick raised his guard again, a look of dawningprehension appeared on his face.


    Oh, I understand now, Werrickughed confidently. Youre him, the cknail. I didnt recognize you. All you green-skinned savages look the same, and there are suddenly a lot you around.


    All you pink idiots die the same, cknail hissed back as he looked for another opening. Time was on his side now. His reinforcements were a lot closer than Werricks.


    Werrick just smiled. Oh, I dont think thats true at all. Ive seen my fair share of both humanity and death. Still, I must say, youve managed to surprise me quite badly here, with this ambush of yours. Mahedium warned me about you, but I didnt suspect anything like this. Youve raised an army from nowhere! If anything, youre even more dangerous than the mage warned. This has be quite the mess.


    You were a fool to let me lure you here. Underestimating me will be yourst mistake, cknail replied in a tone that seethed with anger. Your first was daring to take my master from me. I will bleed you for that.


    Now who is being overconfident? Werrick countered. He didnt seem impressed by cknails bluster. I dont have time to chat though. I admit youve ced me in a bit of an unexpected bind, so let me show you how I pushed back your big friend back there. You should be proud. Very few people have ever managed to make me fight seriously. Herad never did.


    cknail opened his mouth to shout back, but then something odd caught his eye. Werricks de had grown hazy. It was almost like smoke was rising from it, creating ripples in the air.


    Before cknail could figure out what he was seeing, Werrick took a step back and shed. His de cut empty air, but something shot out from the sword. The blur zoomed straight for cknails head, but he dodged to the side and it flew past him to collide with a hobgoblin that had been running over to join the fight. There was a spray of blood as the invisible force cut into the hobgoblins chest, and he dropped lifeless to the ground.


    cknail grimaced and turned to focus on Werricks weapon. Was that a magic sword? cknail hated magic. It was never fair. Was Werrick a mage? No, you couldnt be both a mage and Vessel, unless everyone had been lying to him. The man must be using the sword to channel his Vessel powers somehow.


    Before cknail could give his situation any more thought, Werrick attacked again. He shed the air and then charged forward with startling speed. cknail was forced to jump aside to dodge the magic sh and then hastily try to block Werricks actual sword. He barely managed it, but he was knocked off bnce by the bigger mans strength and stumbled. Bloody magic!


    As Werrick twisted around to strike at him again, cknail decided to even the score. Burning the Elixir in his blood, he reached within himself and pushed a wave of mind smothering fear at Werrick. He growled and bared his teeth as he unleashed the magic. Halfway through the swing Werrick was aiming to decapitate cknail with, the power hit him. The Wolf flinched in surprise and stumbled, but quickly recovered. cknail had time to get his own bnce back, but not enough to strike at Werrick in return. Hed been hoping for more, but Werrick was obviously resistant to magic. Most Vessels and mages were.


    What was that? Werrick grumbled as he eyed cknail warily and readjusted his stance.


    The Wolf didnt wait for an answer, though. Instead, he immediately attacked again. Without bothering to use his magic, he unleashed a flurry of shes at Backnail. Even with his guard up, the hobgoblin was hard pressed to stop the attacks. The crash of metal on metal rang out as their des met. Werrick was fast and powerful. His attacks also had weight, and he was armored. Almost every advantage was his.


    cknail jumped back away from a cut aimed at his face, and Werrick didnt follow. Instead, the man shed the air again, and a de of air flew past cknail. ncing over his shoulder, cknail saw two more his minions fall as the sh tore into them. Theyd been about to join in the fight. Not that they would have been much help.


    This confrontation wasnt going the way cknail had thought it would. In his head, hed pictured himself picking off a wounded Werrick or getting a surprise attack in that would quickly end the fight. At the very least, hed thought hed have help. Unfortunately, his minions were useless, and Ilsiti was stuck on the other side of the battle. Still, there had to be a way for him to win. He wasnt going to let Saeters killer get away. Not when he was right there in front of him and in as weak a position as cknail could hope to arrange.


    Snarling, cknail lunged forward and cut at Werricks side, but the man blocked the attack and replied with one of his own. His de swung around and nicked cknails arm. The hobgoblin winced. The wound stung, but it wasnt serious. cknail couldnt afford any distractions, though. As Werrick took a step back, cknail was forced to follow him. Werrick was able to attack from a distance and cknail wasnt.


    With Werrick holding his ground, there was a clear avenue for his troops to move through, and more and more of them were retreating from the battle. cknail couldnt stop them, and his irregrs had be useless. There were too few of them left to block Werricks retreat.


    With no other ideas, cknail fought an aggressive defense. He kept within striking distance of Werrick but focused more on dodging and blocking rather than trying to cut his enemy down. He was simply buying time now, in the hopes that something would shift the advantage back his way. Off to the right, two hobgoblins managed to take down a bandit, but then two more bandits surged forward and scattered them.


    As cknail dodged a sh aimed at his shoulder, the flow of the battle around him began to change. Most of Werricks troops had escaped the encirclement now. Only the line of troops holding back Ilisti and the hobgoblin spearmen were left, and they were retreating in a slow but orderly fashion. Soon, Werrick and his men would bepletely out of the trap.


    cknail hissed as he stepped forward and hacked at Werrick, but the man easily blocked the blow and then pushed. The force of the shove almost knocked cknail over, and he was forced to stumble backwards.


    Watch out, boss! a voice suddenly yelled.


    cknail nced over his shoulder to see one of Imps assistants. He was holding a red mana crystal, which he immediately ignited and threw at Werrick. Instantly, cknail jumped out of the way of the burning projectile. Werrick didnt stay still either. However, instead of dodging, he raised a gauntleted hand. As cknail watched, a rippling burst of force shot out his palm and hit the crystal, carrying it right back to the hobgoblin who had thrown it. The hobgoblin mages eyes went wide in shock. He barely had time flinch in surprise before the mix of force and fire hit him in the chest, pushing him backwards, and then it exploded. The air shook from the boom and pieces of earth flew in every direction. cknail winced as he saw that there was only a smoking crater where the hobgoblin mage had been standing a second ago. Ouch.


    Im growing impatient. Its time to finish this, Werrick announced as he swung his de at cknail again.


    As cknail dodged the wind de that sliced past him, he couldnt help but notice that all his nearby minions had suddenly found other ces to be. None of them wereing to help him. Instead, theyd found less deadly bandits to attack or had just run away. Stupid minions. This was what hed created them for! They were being incredibly ungrateful. When this was over, they were all going to get the worst punishments imaginable.


    Werrick didnt give cknail any more time to think. Ilisti would soon arrive with his troops, so the Wolf went all out. Shoulder first, he swung his sword back and charged straight at his opponent. cknail tried to sidestep and take a slice at Werricks head, but the man didnt dodge. Instead, he just brought his shoulder up and ducked his head down, so it was protected by his pauldron. Screeching, cknails de scraped against the metal armor without prating, and then Werrick smashed into him. They were too close for Werrick to use his sword, but the force of the charge was dangerous enough. Werricks shoulder hit cknails chest, sting the air out of his lungs and throwing him up into the air. The hobgoblins ribs warped and squeezed his organs for a second as the physical force of the blow passed through him. Instantly, pain seared throughout his body and his head whipped back, cracking his neck and making his vision go white for a second.


    Unprompted and without thought, Elixir suddenly flowed through cknails veins. Its power burned through him, and a few pumps of his heartter, he gasped and was pulled back to consciousness. He wasnt going to lose! The need to for vengeance still roared within cknail, and he fought to reorient himself.


    However, that was when Werrick struck again. cknail was still stumbling backwards. All Werrick had to do was swing his sword. cknail saw iting but he was too weak to react properly. The hobgoblin could only blink as the de came around in an arc and smashed into his ribs. Cutting through his leather vest, the sharp metal implement cracked bone and tore into flesh as cknail was sent flying sideways. He hit the ground hard, and his limp body rolled across the grass, leaving a trail of blood.


    Pain zed throughout cknail as his rolling body came to stop. In its wake it left destion and weakness. He felt cold and his vision had gone blurry. He wasying on his side, and he knew he couldnt stay there, no matter how much he hurt. Grimacing and marshaling his strength, he tried to move, but he couldnt manage anything more than a feeble twitch of an arm.


    Despair blossomed throughout cknail as he realized that hed lost. He was already dying. No, this couldnt be the end! Dimly, red hot hate red up and attempted to push away the smothering darkness of despair and the death that was pressing down on cknails spirit, but it was pointless fight.


    Movement caught cknails gaze, and he noticed Werrick calmly walking his way. The man stopped a few feet away and looked down at cknail. There was an inscrutable frown on his face.


    So, theres still some life in you. Impressive. Its almost a shame I have to snuff it out, Werrick remarked. Youre the only real opponent Ive had since I started this business. In a way, dealing with you was practically fun, but this is thest time youll surprise me. Youre far too unpredictable to let live. I still cant wrap my head around how you built an army of hobgoblins, and theyll be as dangerous as demons even without you around to lead them.


    All cknail could manage in reply was a hate filled gurgle. It burst out of his throat along with more than a few drops of blood. Stupid human.


    Werrickughed and raised his weapon. As the man shed the air, something hit cknails chest. He spasmed as more pain ripped through him. Under this new assault, his body gave out. His vision cked out and his muscles went limp. Consciousness began to fade...


    Everything was dim and cold. cknail couldnt quite remember where he was or why he hurt so much. Screams of pain and the ring of metal hitting metal echoed over him. Was he in a battle? Everything was going ck, even the light of his own thoughts


    Suddenly, someone poked cknails shoulder, and his eyes flickered open. His vision was blurry, but he saw two figures leaning over him.


    Do you think hes dead? one hobgoblin asked the other.


    Dunno, do you think anyone would care if I took his pants? hispanion replied.


    cknail groaned. He was slightly more conscious now. He still couldnt talk but he could re at them. Bloody minions. So useless. Why couldnt any of them have taken some initiative and be healers? Really good ones. This was all their fault, somehow.


    Without warning, cknails vision dimmed again and he lost his grip on consciousness. When it returned, he wasnt sure how long had passed, but there were several new people around. One of them had red hair. Oh, no. It was Khita. She wasnt even going to let him die in peace. So annoying.


    He should be dead already. There are two holes in his chest, someone who sounded familiar observed.


    You need to fight, cknail. Dont let death im you. Were here. Well get you wrapped up. Fight, Khita shouted in his ear.


    The redhead sounded quite distraught. cknail was d he wasnt the only one in pain. She was also quite afraid, cknail could sense it. In fact, he could sense a lot of fear from countless people. Their thoughts swirled around him, like sparks from a bonfire up into the night sky.


    Fight what? Wolfy gone, cknail wondered aloud. His voice was little more than a quiet rasp. Werrick had gotten away. Hed walked right out of the trap cknail had spent so much time building. What was the point in struggling more?


    Much to cknails frustration, Khita instantly began yelling again. Fight to live! Fight to protect what youve built! Saeter would be so proud if he could see you now. Dont let it all go to waste. We need you!


    Of course, they needed him. He was the leader. They couldnt do anything without him, the idiots. Khita wouldntst a day. cknail sighed mentally. He wasnt dead yet, despite the wreckage of his body, and that meant his spirit could still fight for life. But did he have the will to fight? What price was he willing to pay? There would be so much pain


    Was killing Werrick really all that mattered? An image of Ironbreak as seen from the hill overlooking it shed before cknails eyes. Hed built that. It had been all him. If he died now it would probably fall apart as the hobgoblins turned on each other. Then what would happen to all his poor human minions? Saeter had wanted him to look after them. The old scout had always talked about his love for the North. Really, this wasnt about cknail at all Was that possible? What a weird way to think.


    cknail took a deep breath. It hurt, but the pain cleared his mind. He was dying. He had to do something about that. His body was spent, so he needed a new source of power, and he had an idea. cknail burned Elixir and felt the burning power flow through him. Then, reaching out with his magic, cknail grabbed at the minds he felt all around him. Hed done this once before. Half dead, he remembered how.


    Cold power flushed throughout cknail as he tasted the fear and terror of hundreds. It raged within him as it mingled with the usual fire of his Elixir. He was forced to take another aching breath. It burned like he was trying to hold ice with his brain, but he didnt let go. This was magic. If anything could heal him, this could. Focusing, cknail sent the power flowing out into his body. A storm of potential.


    Almost immediately, ckail felt his body grow stronger, but he knew it wouldnt be enough. So, the hobgoblin pulled in more power. He ripped at all the minds around him and dragged at their light, sucking in all their terror and hate. It was too much for his body and began to slip away, so cknail began forcing the power into one spot andpressing it. That worked. Power poured into cknail and raged throughout his body. As the maelstrom whirled and raged, his body expanded in response. Flesh healed, and bone reknit.


    There were several gasps of shock from the onlookers, but then Gob spoke up from somewhere nearby. We have to move him. No one must see him while he is weak. I do not trust the vympir or many of the hobs.


    Ill watch over him myself, and we can trust Herah, Khita quickly responded.


    That was all cknail heard. Without warning, his spirit suddenly gave out and he was consumed by darkness again.

 Interlude: Breathe of Life

    Interlude: Breathe of Life


    Well, this is a fine mess weve gotten ourselves into, Ralphi remarked sourly.


    He was leaning against the rooms only doorframe. It wasnt a veryrge room, but there were several other people and onerge bed in it. A tense looking Herah was standing guard on the other side of the door. Geralhd was sitting in a chair beside the bed, and Khita was sitting on the edge of the bed itself. Behind her, cknail was sleeping. Hed been cleaned, and his wounds had all been bandaged, but there were bloodstains showing through some of the cloth. Many of his wounds were still bleeding, even while others had healed. It was miracle that he was still alive at all. Hed looked dead when theyd first found him.


    It looks like hes going to pull through now, Geralhd remarked as he studied the hobgoblin on the bed. Despite the spectacr nature of his wounds, theyre closing and he is healing.


    Damn right! Khita huffed loudly. Theres no way cknail would die from something like this. Hes almost as hard to kill as me!


    Thats practically a realpliment, Ralphi muttered snidely.


    Were lucky Werricks troops finally broke when they did and that Ilistis charge forced Werrick to retreat. Although, he undoubtedly thought cknail was already beyond saving.


    Ralphis scowl just deepened. He looked like hed bitten into a sour fruit. At this point, Im not worried about the hobgoblin fading away on us. Its everything else thats got me worried about my skin. For starters, we have no idea how the other hobgoblins will react to his defeat and injury. Gob is keeping control for now, but they havent had time to really process it. Were in uncharted waters there, and Im worried about sinking.


    Then, maybe you should be out there helping? Khita replied bluntly. You did help train the hobs. They listen to you.


    Ill do what I can, but I have no idea if it will be enough, Ralphi told her. There are also lots of other things to worry about. Even with cknail safely back here at the base and recovering.


    Like Werrick. He got away and hell be back, Geralhd agreed with a nod of his head. The Wolf knows what he faces now, The next time he seeks battle he will bring all his forces against us, and some of our allies are less than reliable. Ilisti wont bleed for anyone else. He only helped this time because we had the advantage.


    Yep, we just started a war with the most powerful man in the North, and all weve got are a bunch of shifty hobgoblins, questionable alliances, and some dumb vigers, Ralphi agreed. Honestly, Id be making a break for it if there was anywhere to go. Even with gold in my pocket it would be hard to get anywhere safe to spend it.


    I just hope cknail recovers soon. Ilisti has been wanting to see him, but Ive been making excuses. I cant keep doing that for too long, and the vympir is rather intimidating, Geralhd said before sighing deeply.


    Even when he does wake up, that will just cause us a whole bunch of different problems. We dont know what to expect from him, Ralphi countered. He was in a very bad mood.


    Hell be the same old cknail as always, no doubt, Khita said.


    Even you cant be blind to the changes that are happening to him, Ralphi replied as he gave her a condescending re. The healing itself isnt something Vessels normally do, not like that, and hes already grown an inch or two. Also, his horns are rather obvious. Theyre starting to branch like antlers and theyre not even bone anymore. If you look closely, theyre some kind of ck crystal. He has mutated, and that might affect his personality. Hells, it might do next to anything. I wish that creep Avorlus was here. We should probably send for him.


    Geralhd grimaced. Ilisti might also know more, but Im not sure we should bring it up with him.


    Why would the vympir know anything? Khita asked with obvious confusion.


    What do you think vympirs are? It seems obvious to me that theyre a variant of human mutants, Geralhd answered. But that also means he might see cknail as a threat or rival now, and choose to take him out while he is vulnerable. One thing I do know about mutants is that theyre very territorial.


    So are hobgoblins, Khita remarked snidely. Im telling you, we wont notice a difference. Hell be the same as always, just taller.


    I wish I could believe that. However, evidence and experience suggest otherwise. At the very least, when cknail wakes he will be stronger.


    Arghh, stupid hobgoblin, Ralphi cursed as he scratched his neck in nervous manner. I cant believe hes managed to involve me in this craziness. What I use for brains must have been knocked out years ago.


    Well, whatever happens. He needs to wake up as soon as possible, Geralhd observed. He has implicated us all beyond any chance of escape, and were going to need him. Werrick will be back, and as bad as our odds are, no one else stands a chance.


    A concerned look appeared on Ralphis face as he turned to stare at one of the walls. Aye, and I cant shake the feeling that there are other dangersing that we know nothing about. This is the North. Its a savage and dangerous ce that has never really epted civilization, and now its shifting and changing right before our eyes. A king is rising, hobgoblins are building armies, and strange new creatures like those boggarts are stalking men. Who knows what will happen next? But, out here in the Green, obvious movement usually means that the predators are gathering.

 On Winters Wings 1

    On Winter''s Wings 1


    There was darkness. It enveloped everything in imprable silence. The dreamers eyes couldnt pierce it at all. He hung there, floating in the ck. Yet, the dreamer knew he was being watched. Despite his blindness, he could feel countless eyes on his skin. Their gaze prickled at his awareness as they examined him. Both close and far, the eyes were beyond number and yet one. There was no escaping their sight.


    The dreamer remembered fear and hate. Around him, the darkness stirred. He had called out and been answered. The watching presence closed in. Invisible, it pressed against him and sank into his flesh. It filled him, like a deep invigorating breath, and he began to rise. He was pulled upwards and the dark gave way before him. The dreamers eyes were already open, but he opened them again. He saw. A ring of tall grey stones emerged from the darkness. Weathered and worn by untold ages, they still projected the endless strength and weight of the earth. The dreamer recognized them. He hadin eyes on them in the waking world long ago. Painful nostalgia pressed against his heart, although he couldnt remember why he would feel this way. Sadness. His thoughts were hazy, and he could remember little of the waking world.


    Suddenly, the ring of standing stones shifted. The unseen earth rumbled as the smooth stones fell and new rocks appeared. Soon, the dreamer was looking at a circr stone wall. But, the scene wasnt done changing. The sound of crashing and roaring waves echoed out of the darkness. The powerful noise intensified as the source rushed toward the stone walls, seemingly from every direction at once. Then, the distant dark began to twist and turn with furious energy. A wave wasing. It rolled forward with incredible force toward the stone wall. As the crushing power of the dark water approached, the unseen earth shook. A solid thicket of spears burst out of the ground in front of the wall, breaking the wave at thest moment. All was chaos. Water was tossed in every direction as spears were torn apart. Slowed, but not stopped, the wave reformed and smashed into the wall. Cold water was suddenly everywhere. Its freezing embrace pulled the dreamer away from the stone wall. Shocked, he gasped and iled as he was carried away.


    The dreamers eyes were already open, but he opened them again.


    ---


    cknail woke up with a cold jolt that made his heart miss a beat. At first, thepleteck of darkness and freezing water surprised him, although he wasn''t sure why. In fact, there was a roof over his head and it felt like he was lying on a dry bed. Curious, the hobgoblin sat up and looked around. It looked like he was in one of the small huts at the forward base hed built. Sunlight wasing in from a small window, and it wasnt morning. The light was bright enough for noon. He must have slept in. Wait, had he just been dreaming? He remembered dark water Maybe? Yawning, cknail tried to gather his thoughts. His mind was chaotic and confused. Everything was a mess. Fragmented scenes from every period of his life kept pushing themselves to the fore. He remembered looking up at Saeter for the first time and sitting by a campfire at night while surrounded by human rangers. He remembered the hundredth time hed contemted stabbing Khita and dumping her body in some bushes. That didnt help. Even now Khita was an annoying distraction, and he still had no idea why he was in bed.


    Focus. How had he got here? What was thest thing he remembered? Wait, hed been in a battle. Yes. Hed been fighting Werrick but he couldnt remember the end of the fight. Uh oh, that wasnt good. He was the leader, and none of his minions were nearlypetent enough to win a battle without him.


    A faint rustling sound drew cknails attention downwards. There was a hobgoblin lying on the floor beside his bed, and it was Herah. What was she doing there? It was creepy.


    Get up! If youre on guard duty youre doing a terrible job, cknail yelled at her. He wanted some answers.


    Instantly, Herah jumped up and turned to face cknail. She blinked in confusion for a few seconds beforeing fully awake. The female hobgoblin was cknails They sometimes had sex. However, that didnt mean she was trustworthy. She was a little too obsessed and no hobgoblin was trustworthy. That was why hed kept her at arms length until recently.


    Boss, youre not sleeping anymore! she announced happily. She looked genuinely delighted to see him and almost surprised. He must have been quite badly injured.


    Yes, Im awake now, cknail replied dryly as he began to think about what to ask her first. There were a lot of options.


    However, the suddenmotion inside the hut drew attention from outside. The door of the hut flew open and Khita stepped through it. Seeing cknail, the young redhead grinned happily. She must have been standing just outside.


    Youre awake! Khita announced as she rushed over to cknails side.


    cknail scowled in annoyance. He knew he was awake. Stupid humans were always repeating the obvious. What had he been thinking about? Right, he needed to clear up the holes in his memories. Thered been a battle.


    What happened to Werrick? Did I win the fight? cknail asked the redhead. She probably knew more than Herah and could exin it better.


    A troubled frown appeared on Khitas face and she looked off to the side. Er, sort of.


    That doesnt help. Exin better, cknail hissed at her. This was important.


    We technically won the battle, because the enemy fled, Khita exined. But, they managed to flee, which was bad for us, because we really wanted to stop them from getting away, you know. So, we didnt get Werrick and he wounded you before he left. That was very bad, but now youre fine, so yeah!


    It took a few seconds for cknail to sort through that tangle of words and pull something like meaning out of them. When he had, he almost preferred ignorance. Hed failed. cknail grimaced as he felt ugly self-loathing boil up inside his guts. cknails old master, the ranger Saeter, was unavenged and Werrick still lived. Even worse, cknail had exposed almost all his secrets to the enemy now. Werrick was no longer ignorant of cknails true strength and knew about cknails hobgoblin forces. That would make the Wolf a much more dangerous foe. He wouldnt be walking into anymore ambushes. Ugh, this wasnt fair. How could this have happened? Hed been so close to finishing off the enemy bandit lord only to be cut down at thest moment. It was probably one of his minions faults, or all of them. They obviously hadnt fought hard enough.


    However, staying in bed wouldnt help. Grunting in displeasure, cknail shook off his negative mood, slid out of bed, and stood up. Immediately, he noticed two things. One, his body felt unsteady and clumsy from weakness. Two, he wasnt wearing pants.


    Did someone steal my pants? he asked as he looked down and frowned. He seemed to remember something about that


    cknail suddenly swayed as a moment of vertigo hit him. Catching his bnce, he looked down and studied his own legs and feet. They looked unusually far away. Was he sick? Maybe he was still dreaming


    Why would anyone want your pants? They were basically rags, Khita remarked as she blushed and looked away. No, we took them off so we could get at your wounds, and then we threw the dirty things out. Besides, you outgrew them.


    Herah didnt look away, but it wasnt anything she hadnt seen before, so cknail ignored her and looked around for something to wear. He didnt much care about the human concept of modesty, but hed gotten used to wearing pants and his lower body felt drafty without them now.


    As Khita handed him a pile of clothes that had been set aside on a nearby chair, cknail noticed something else odd. Had Khita and Herah both gotten shorter? It certainly looked like they had. Neither of them was taller than the height of his nose. Wow, how had they managed that? They must have been up to some crazy stupid stuff while he was asleep. What weirdos.


    How did you get so short? cknail asked as he hopped on one leg and pulled on his pants. His movements were clumsy, and in particr, his head felt oddly heavy. Herah looked slightly disappointed when hed covered himself up.


    Um, what? Khita replied as she threw Herah a confused look.


    Hes taller, Herah pointed out.


    Oh, right Khita drawled as she suddenly understood.


    cknail glowered at them both while he waited for one of them to finally get around to exining it to him. Maybe he needed to go find some smarter minions to ask.


    Youve gotten taller. We didnt shrink, Khita told him a momentter.


    That didnt sound likely to cknail. His hobgoblin body had stopped growing a while back. How long was I asleep?


    cknail began trying to pull on a shirt, but it didnt work. Instead, his head was jerked sideways as his clothing got tangled in his horns. Had they grown too? They certainly felt longer andrger. Was that why he was so off-bnce? Probably. Hmm, he was going to need a looser shirt, but there wasnt one here.


    Khita grimaced in frustration before answering cknails question. You were out for only about a week, but you changed because of um magic and hobgoblin stuff.


    Sighing, cknail put the shirt down and headed for the door. Yes, he definitely needed to find someone smarter to talk to. Was Geralhd around?


    cknails silent question was answered a few secondster. As soon as hed opened the hut door and looked around, he noticed Geralhd running over his way. He must have heard that cknail was awake. Good, the merchants son turned bandit was without a doubt one of the smartest people around, even if he did say a lot of nonsense. As cknail stepped out to greet the man, Khita and Herah followed him.


    cknail, its so good to see you up and about! Geralhd remarked happily before leaning closer to Khita. Hes not murderous or anything, is he?


    Not so far. Hes just grumpy and impatient, the redhead replied.


    That could change. Exin! cknail interjected as he red at them both. What was this now? Someone had better start actually exining things.


    Um, I was just a little concerned about your condition, Geralhd told him.


    Which is? cknail asked irately as realized that he didnt have a de on him. That was too bad, because in his experience the best way to get answers out of humans was by putting a knife against their throats.


    Gerald suddenly looked nervous and uncertain. Right, thats a good question. I mean, were notpletely sure, and Im not an expert, but we believe you used too much magic after your battle with Werrick. You managed to heal yourself, but you also seem to have undergone magical mutation. So, youre a mutant now.


    cknail blinked. What? He knew what mutants were, of course. They wererge magical animals that you sometimes came across in the Green. Usually, they were very dangerous. But, how could he be one? cknail couldnt picture that. Could you be a mutant and not know it?


    Its why youre taller. Most mutants are significantlyrger than normal, although I believe that normally happens gradually, Geralhd continued. In your case, its almost like the initial mutation triggered your goblin to hobgoblin transformation again. Maybe because hobgoblin bodies are used to that kind of rapid change and responded to it as if it was a simr natural process?


    Slowly, things began to make sense to cknail, even if Geralhd was spouting a lot of nonsense. He did sort of remember burning all his Elixir and pulling in as much magic as possible when hed been wounded. Still, it was overwhelming to think about. He needed a moment to clear his head.


    Is Gob around? cknail asked. Another hobgoblin might be easier to deal with.


    Geralhd shook his head. No, he left once he was sure you were recovering from your wounds. Someone with some authority had to go back to Ironbreak to hold things together there.


    Argh, fine. Im hungry, so Im going to go find something to eat. Unless there is some reason I cant do that? Mutants eat, right? cknail asked sarcastically. He was fairly certain mutants ate normally.


    Um, go ahead, Geralhd replied.


    cknail hadnt waited for his permission. He had already sighed in frustration and turned to begin heading for the building that served as the forward basesrder. His stomach grumbled as he walked, and he realized that he really was starving. For some reason, hed simply failed to notice his hunger. cknail supposed that there had simply been too much going on.


    The two hobgoblins on guard duty outside therder jumped out of the way as cknail approached. Snorting rudely, cknail stepped past them and into the hut. Once inside, he looked around and began gathering up everything that looked tasty, including the only wheel of cheese. Then, he sat down at a table and started stuffing his face. That went on for a while, until even he was surprised by how much he managed to cram into his stomach. A whole wheel of cheese and tworge rabbits went down his gullet. Apparently, a lot of his increased height was to make room for a much bigger stomach. Useful.


    While hed been eating, the others had been giving him some space and patiently waiting outside the door of therder. So, when he was done satisfying his hunger and feeling a little better, cknail went out to talk to them again. They turned to study him as he approached.


    What exactly happened to Werrick and his men? Where are they now? cknail asked Geralhd. That was the most important question he could think of. It had been weighing on him since hed woken up.


    He fled, and we havent heard anything from him or his men since, Geralhd exined. After your um fall, Werrick rallied all his men and marched them right out of the territory youd imed. That re his mage sent up alerted his other nearby force and our scouts reported that they were on their way, so we all decided to retreat. Honestly, we expected him to hold his ground, but he just left. Word is little unreliable out here, but weve heard that he headed all the way back to his stronghold in the east and has remained there.


    cknail frowned as he began thinking. The Wolf had beaten him and escaped his trap, but hed also just received a huge shock and almost been killed. The idea of a hobgoblin army would have thrown him off bnce. Hed probably never even considered it possible. They were monsters from stories, and for all his strength and power, the Wolf was still human. He would want to retreat home and gather his courage, like a human would. The other option was trying to hunt down an organized army of hobgoblins through the Green. cknail wished hed been that dumb. He knew exactly how good Werricks rangers were. Not nearly good enough.


    Hmm, what will he do next? cknail mused aloud.


    Geralhd quickly spoke up. Ralphi seems to think he is pulling back until the Spring. Its already Fall, and he says starting a campaign against a mobile and irregr opponent like us would be difficult to wrap up before Winter begins. He must also believe you dead, and thus hes probably hoping our band falls apart.


    Wait, who was Ralphi? It took a moment for cknail to remember. Right, that was what Beardy had changed his name to. What an idiot. Beardy was a much better name. However, his thoughts on strategy made more sense to cknail. He nodded as some of the mental and physical tension he hadnt been consciously aware of having slipped away. It was nice to know that Werrick wasnt going to beunching an assault on the forward base or Ironbreak anytime soon. Given time to prepare, cknail could salvage this mess he found himself in. Hed bet quite a lot on being able to kill Werrick in theirst encounter, but unfortunately that hadnt happened. Still, in a lot of ways, time was on cknails side. His minions were growing in numbers and were easily receable. Sure the Wolf had huge armies and now knew about cknails hobgoblins, but he couldnt know anything about the goblin settlement of Ironbreak. For all the Wolf knew, the army hed faced had burst fully formed out of the Green.


    Werrick will move cautiously, cknail mused. He will try to learn more before he attempts to attack us. We can simply harass him and flee into the forest if he does show up, and then Winter will stop him for us. He is no threat until the Spring.


    Alright, that reasoning makes sense, Geralhd admitted before grimacing sourly. However, that only buys us some time. Werrick is practically the King of the North already. He has massive armies, rogue mages, and support from an entire society of corrupt merchants with enough gold to bury a small city. How in damnation are we going to survive when he doese for us in the Spring? What do we do?


    cknail just shrugged calmly. We have no choice. We will fight. If it is a war he wants then we will give him one.


    Now that sounds like fun! Khita eximed with a wide excited grin. I cant wait to have my chance at taking Werrick down. He fled before I could get to himst time, but Im a Vessel now so I bet I can take him!

 On Winters Wings 2

    On Winter''s Wings 2


    "I wish I could think of a better solution to our problem, Geralhd remarked after cknail had told Khita to stop yelling nonsense. They were still standing outside the hut that served as the forward basesrder and kitchen and had been discussing what to do about their inevitable next conflict with Werrick.


    You dont have to worry about thinking. I can do it for you, since Im a genius, cknail pointed out helpfully.


    Geralhd sighed. I certainly hope you are, because I have no idea what youre thinking most the time, and we need every advantage we can get. However, now we should focus on what our more immediate ns are.


    I need to get my minions back to work, cknail said with a shrug. We cant let Werrick learn anything about us while we prepare to fight. He is human, so he will fear the unknown, and that will make him hesitate and buy us some more time. We want that time, so we have to make sure no one tells him anything.


    Spies are probably our number one concern right now, Geralhd agreed. Werrick is undoubtedly trying to find out everything he can about us, but Ralphi and I have been careful to keep any of the new human recruits from learning too much about our presence further North. That should keep them in the dark about most the important happenings.


    What about the vympirs? cknail asked. They were the next thing on his mind. Ilisti and his men had fought beside cknails troops against Werrick, but they werent loyal to anyone but themselves. They were also very dangerous. cknail had once watched Ilisti tear apart a troll one-on-one. It had been impressive.


    When they found out you were unconscious they headed back North to Herstcrest, Geralhd told him. Honestly, none of us have any idea what Ilisti is thinking. Its apparent that they do things quite differently in the West.


    cknail didnt understand them either, so he just nodded. Then we continue here as before. We will patrol the roads in our territory and demand tribute from travelers. If Werrick does attack then we will just hide and harass him until winter.


    Geralhd frowned thoughtfully. What about new recruits and refugees heading north? I wouldnt have believed it, but word continues to spread of opportunities up North and were still attracting deserters looking to join up with us and families fleeing the wars to the south.


    Were else are they going to go? Khita pointed out. Those inbred fools that pass themselves off as nobles keep fighting down south, and Werrick isnt recruiting anymore. Even he cant afford to pay every deserter that heads North.


    Snorting, cknail gave them his opinion on the refugees. They wont be a problem. Any human who goes north will just have to stay there. My hobgoblins will find anyone that flees long before they escape, if they evenst a day in the Green.


    Personally, he didnt think it was likely any humans would get far if they tried to move through the Green on their own. Even a veteran ranger wouldnt try that journey alone.


    Alright, so were fairly secure for now, but were still simply reacting to Werrick, Geralhd told him. You havent given us much in the way of details yet. Theyre kind of important if you really want to wage a war against the Wolf. We need a real strategy for when he attacks in force. You know he will, and he wonte alone. There will be a massive army at his back. Werrick is setting himself up as King of the North and he cant have us challenging his rule.


    That was the problem. cknail hadnte up with the details just yet, although he was sure he would soon. He was a genius after all. He also apparently had plenty of time toe up with them while he gathered new resources. It had taken less than a year for cknail to build up the forces he had now. With a few more months, he could do a lot more.


    Dont worry. Werrick will find us a difficult foe to defeat. Ille up with a new n, much better than thest one. I have many surprises left, and Im the best leader ever, cknail assured his human minions with more confidence than he actually felt. Even though he wasnt burning Elixir, he could feel Geralhds fear, like a faint whisper scratching on his awareness.


    Letting out a deep breath, Geralhd rxed a little. Well, at least youre back up and can deal with the hobgoblins. Ralphi has been trying to keep them busy working on construction so that theyll stay out of trouble, but I believe theyve been getting rebellious. Youre their real leader, and it has been too long since theyve seen you.


    Oh? Ill deal with them in a bit. I want to get some exercise first, cknail replied as he turned to scan his surroundings.


    He was standing in the middle of the forward base right now. It had been built over the ruins of a human vige that had been swallowed by the forest. Most of the buildings in sight were stone and mortar huts that hobgoblins had repaired and rethatched. None of the wooden buildings had survived. However, off to one side, stood severalrge log structures. They were barracks for troops that cknail had ordered built, and they were where most the hobgoblins lived. Another log building was currently under construction, and there was a wall made ofshed together stakes being built around the entire ce.


    As far as cknail knew, there werent any mirrors around, so he headed for the stream at the back of the base. He wanted to get a good look at himself. Hed been told he looked different now, and his horns had certainly grown longer. His nose hopefully hadnt changed, though. It had been beautifully shaped before. The perfect mix of long and pointy.


    cknail passed several hobgoblins as he made his way to the stream. All of them froze in surprise when they saw him, but cknail ignored them. Soon, he was out of the base and kneeling at the edge of a pool of water. Tall tees surrounded him, but there was enough light for him to see his own reflection in the running water.


    His nose was still perfect, so cknail let out a deep sigh of relief. Hed been really worried about that. Some of his other features had changed, though. The first change was incredibly obvious. His horns were more like small ck antlers now. The way they curved around his head and had branches jutting upward was almost crown-like when seen from the right direction. cknail liked it, even if they were rather heavy. He was going to have to try headbutting someone soon. They looked hard and pointy enough to do some real damage.


    Below his horns, cknails eyes had changed color. They were no longer mud brown, instead they were a startling dark violet. Huh, weird. The other changes he noticed were less dramatic but still noticeable. Both his face and his body had filled out, giving him some more weight. His arms and legs were also longer and thicker. He felt powerful. Patting himself on the head, cknail figured he was about the same height as an average human male now, and probably weighed about the same as well. That was exciting. cknail had grown used to being smaller than most humans, but he never really liked it. Size mattered.


    Grinning, cknail turned and headed back to the base. It was time for a workout. He wanted to test this new body of his, so he headed over to where the log building was being constructed. Several hobgoblins were working there, but they quickly got out of his way as he sauntered over to a heavy log on the ground. cknail then grabbed the end of the log with both hands and began to lift. At first, his muscles strained without effect, but then the end of the log began to slowly rise. With his muscles burning, cknail managed to lift the weight up to stomach level, before he let go. He then stepped back and grinned in excitement as the log hit the ground with a heavy thud. That was equal to any feat of strength hed ever seen a human do, even a big angry one that had been stabbed a few times! Also, cknail hadnt even been burning Elixir.


    Ready to try a new experiment. cknail turned his attention inward and tried to reach for the power of a Vessel. Nothing happened. cknail frowned in confusion. Was hepletely out of Elixir? Before, hed always been able to sense at least a hint of Elixir in his blood, even if it was just useless fumes. However, now there was absolutely nothing circling inside him. Had he used it all to heal or something?


    Work harder! cknailmanded the nearby hobgoblins before turning and leaving. He didnt know what they were doing, but they could always do it faster.


    After thinking for a moment, cknail went to find Geralhd. Maybe he knew where the vials of Elixir cknail had been carrying had ended up. Unfortunately, the man had left therder, so cknail had to search the camp. Eventually, he found the man in the hut that served as the localmand post. It was where all the important people sat around to talk about important stuff, and also where they went to eat lunch and avoid dumb questions from their subordinates. Thus, minions werent allowed inside.


    As cknail entered the front room of the hut, he noticed that Geralhd wasnt alone. Both Khita and Ralphi were there. They were all seated at a table in the main room and looking at a map. cknail wasnt sure Khita belonged. Well, it was impossible to keep her out of anywhere, so he let it go.


    We gave you all the Elixir we could find when you were wounded, Geralhd exined after cknail had asked him about his vials. We hoped it would help you heal, so its all gone. You were in bad enough shape that holding any back seemed foolish.


    cknail grunted sourly. He couldnt really me them for that, although he was tempted. Not having any Elixir was annoying. Still, he probably didnt really need any right now. His new body was already quite strong and fast without it. He would just have to wait until he could get more from Imp at Ironbreak. The hobgoblin mage knew how to make his Elixir.


    Its good to see you up and about. That means I can hand you back all the tough jobs and rx for a while, Ralphi remarked. Hed been carefully studying cknail since his arrival.


    No, Im not doing that. Im leaving, cknail replied matter-of-factly. I need to get back to Ironbreak right away.


    What? I hope you dont expect me to continue looking after this ce while youre gone!


    cknail gave him a smug grin as he channeled his inner Herad. I do expect that. You work for me now and thats your job. If you dont like it, you could always run away and see if Werrick has a better offer for you.


    This statement earned the hobgoblin an angry re, but a momentter Ralphi just grunted sourly in acknowledgement. He really didnt have any other option but to do as cknail said.


    Trust my new n, the hobgoblin chieftain told the man.


    Is it better than your old one? Because that didnt go so well, Ralphi replied in a cold tone.


    cknail just grinned. My old n worked great, even if the end part needs reworked a little. Im alive, stronger than ever, and I still have a growing army.


    Ralphi snorted with obvious scorn. We will see if thats enough when Werrick shows up.


    We will, cknail agreed. So, youd better do your part and build up this base as much as possible.


    Once again, Ralphi could only glower at the hobgoblin, which made cknail chuckle.


    Khita smirked along with him. Ya, cknails got the right idea. We didnt manage to beat Werrick, but weve still got our hands in the jar!


    Your optimism is appreciated, but hard work is definitely going to be more helpful, Geralhd told her. We have quite a few challenges waiting for us if we wish to survive.


    Which is why Im going to Ironbreak, cknail replied with a nod of agreement. I cant do much here.


    He felt the need to get to work. He had to be ready. Something wasing


    After talking to the humans for a few more minutes, cknail headed back out to prepare for his journey. He needed supplies and an escort. Thus, the first thing he did was round up some hobgoblins. The barracks were the obvious ce to look for hobgoblins that werent doing anything, so that was where he went. Unfortunately, he wasnt alone. Khita followed after him.


    Geralhd told me to make sure you dont overexert yourself, the redhead told him as they approached the barracks. It was arge building made from horizontal logs.


    Good for you, cknail grunted as he opened the door in front of him and stepped inside. As usual, it was best to ignore the redhead as much as possible.


    The inside of the barracks was dim and tightly packed. Small mismatched beds were everywhere. Some of them were hastily built wooden frames, but most of them were simple hammocks that had been hung between the outside walls and posts. In a lot of ces hammocks had been set up on top of each other so they took up less room. Bags of loot and tools were scattered around as well, and the interior had a strong musky hobgoblin smell. That wasnt a surprise since there were over a dozen hobgoblins in the building. They had been chatting loudly among themselves and watching two of their members wrestle in the center of the floor, but they all immediately stopped and stood up straight as soon as they noticed cknail. There was sudden silence they stared at him intently.


    Sneering haughtily as if he found themcking, cknail met their gazes and looked them over. I need some minions to take me back Ironbreak, so youre going to do it.


    The hobgoblins quickly nced at each other and then one of them took a step forward. We would be honored to serve you, our undying lord.


    Good, get moving and packed up, cknail told them. Hed never been called undying before. In fact, hed never even known that was a word.


    Are you nning on walking back? That sounds pretty strenuous to me. Remember, you shouldnt exert yourself too much, Khita told him. Apparently, she was taking Geralhds advice seriously.


    cknail sighed and turned to face her. Do you have a better idea? Carts cant go through the Green and the road isnt done yet.


    The hobgoblin spokesman coughed to get his boss attention. We could carry you on a litter. It would be our honor, supreme one,


    I will allow that, cknail agreed after thinking it over for moment. He wasnt a huge fan of walking anyway. Too much work.


    Less than an hourter, cknails party was ready to move. Both Khita and Geralhd wereing along so that they could get back to Shelter. Theyd only been staying at the forward base in order to watch him while he was recovering. There were also a dozen hobgoblinsing along, four of which were carrying the litter. It was a simple hammock that had been tied between two long poles, but cknail found it quitefy. The going was bumpy, but the cloth was soft, and he couldy down or sit up depending on his mood. All in all, the journey to Ironbreak was the most enjoyable ever for cknail. He decided that he needed to get carried around by his minions more. In fact, he might never walk anywhere again. This was how real leaders travelled!


    What are you going to do once you get back to Ironbreak? Khita asked as she walked over beside cknails litter.


    Sitting up, cknail gave her a suffering look. Everything. Im going to be very busy. I need to make sure nothing has gone wrong and that all my minions are keeping busy.


    I must admit to being concerned about Ironbreak as well, Geralhd added as he followed Khita. Without you around to keep things orderly, who knows what has transpired. Some of the hobgoblins are well-meaning, but they need firm leadership. Their proximity to Shelter also worries me. There is too much opportunity for a misunderstanding to arise between the two settlements.


    cknail nodded in agreement. Geralhd had mentioned only a small fraction of the things that had already urred to him. There was the possibility of rebellion, cave-ins, drake attacks, mutant swarms, or that someone had stolen all his cheese. If cknail arrived at Ironbreak and his cheese had been stolen, a lot of people were going to die.

 On Winters Wings 3

    On Winter''s Wings 3


    cknail rather enjoyed being carried by four hobgoblin minions on a litter. He only dismounted from it when his party reached Ironbreaks gate. Being carried around was nice and rxing, but it was time to stretch his legs. Yawning, cknail rolled off the litter and began walking toward the gate. Several armed guards quickly followed after him, since they had nothing better to do. There were four hobgoblins guarding the gate in front of cknail, but they immediately bowed to their chieftain and then moved out of his way. cknail gave them a brief nod as he walked past. He was happy to see that things hadnt descended into chaos or rebellion here yet. Hed been a little worried about that.


    Ironbreak was new settlement. It had been built by goblins and hobgoblins at cknails orders, and thus most of the construction was crude. The wall that encircled it was made from long sharpened stakes meant to keep beasts out. Inside the walls, what had once been an empty clearing containing a few rocky hills and caves was now a fair-sized settlement. Mismatched buildings filled almost every space. None of them seemed to have the same style, and they were made from various materials. y bricks weremon, but so were huts made from woven branches, and a few of therger and newer buildings were made from horizontally stacked logs. The nearby roofs were covered by thatch oryers of long bark strips. The result was chaotic and savage looking, but alsopletely functional. Humans might have found it dirty and distasteful, but it was far better shelter than goblins were used to.


    The arrival of cknail and his party quickly drew the notice of Ironbreaks inhabitants, of which there were plenty of around. Goblins were everywhere. There were too many of the green critters to count. Dozens of them were running around between the buildings, while otherszed around in the shade, and there were even a few sitting leisurely on the nearby rooftops. Scattered around the scene, there were also a few hobgoblins, who mostly ignored their smaller kin as they went along on their own business. However, all that changed as cknail stepped through the gate. Almost instantly, he became the center of attention. Ignoring his new audience, cknail looked around. Hed sent a runner ahead to spread word of his arrival, so he soon found who he was looking for. Gob and several other hobgoblins were over to one side, and they were already walking over to meet him.


    You have returned, great one! It is a blessed day, Gob eximed happily as he dropped to his knees and bowed deeply in front of cknail. Some of the other nearby hobgoblins copied him.


    Gob was cknails second inmand, and while he was unquestionably loyal, he was also way too overdramatic about everything. It was frankly a waste of time. Before Ironbreak had been founded, Gob had been the first hobgoblin to swear fealty to cknail. Back then, cknail had been wandering the Green after the defeat of Herads bandits by Werrick. That hadnt been their first meeting, though. There was no way cknail would trust a strange feral hobgoblin. No, Gob had also been a member of a small goblin tribe that cknail had helped out a while back. Hed saved them from some harpies while hed been travelling to Daggerpoint.


    Get up, cknail told his minions with a frustrated sigh.


    Gob immediately did as he was told and climbed back to his feet. cknail was instantly reminded of his own recent transformation, because Gob looked shorter than he remembered.


    I stand ready to obey your every word, master of all goblins! Gob shouted loudly. cknail winced. He had sensitive ears and Gob was being too loud. Also, bing the master of all goblins sounded like it would be way more trouble than he would ever want.


    Good. Im going to be giving out a lot of orders, cknail told Gob. There was definitely a lot to do in preparation for theing war with Werrick.


    Gob listened intently as cknail began exining what he wanted done. There were two areas that cknail was most focused on, the mines and food. You could never have too much food. Behind cknail, the humans that had travelled with him walked over and then wandered off to do their own things. At the same time, several other hobgoblins arrived. cknail easily recognized Imp and Ferrar. As was usual, Ferrars reddish-brown hair and eyebrows were singed, and Imp was carrying a tall staff hed taken from a defeated human mage. The mechanism in the staff allowed him to channel and control the power of mana crystals.


    Wow, you sure got bigger, boss! Ferrar remarked in surprise.


    Looking intrigued, Imp stepped in close and stared at cknails horns intently. cknail found this behavior rude, so he snorted and lightly shoved the hobgoblin away.


    Oh, sorry, boss, Imp said after hed regained his bnce.


    cknail just rolled his eyes before addressing all his lieutenants together. Ive got work for you. We need to rebuild the walls using the extra stone from the iron mines, and I also want some real gates that can close. Having a big hole in our walls is just dumb.


    They would need better defenses to repel Werrick if he ever showed up, although cknail wasnt sure why he was set on stone walls Well, whatever.


    Is someone or something going to attack us? Ferrar asked as he frowned in concern.


    We are probably safe for now, but we will need better defenses eventually. All the big human towns have better walls than us, and weve been lucky. There are things in the Green that would smash right through our walls, like a drake. Also, its not like were short on workers. There are too many goblins justzing around here, cknail exined as he motioned towards all the nearby goblins. Lazy minions annoyed him. They just sat around eating his food


    Grimacing, cknail turned to Ferrar. Youre in charge of mining. Are you digging up enough stone to make a wall?


    When cknail had left to fight Werrick, Ferrar had been the hobgoblin in charge of Ironbreaks smiths and craftsmen. By extension that meant hed also been in charge of acquiring raw iron from the caves below the settlement. All the furnaces and smithies in Ironbreak had been built by the fire-obsessed hobgoblin.


    Ferrar frowned in response to the question. Work below slowed down after you left, boss. Getting stone isnt hard, weve got the tools and goblins, but weve had to go deeper down to find more iron, and thats gotten dangerous.


    Dangerous how? cknail asked.


    Goblins keep getting hurt or attacked by the beasts that live down there. When we block off a passage, something always opens it, Ferrar exined.


    This news didnt surprise cknail. Hed been down in the caves a few times, so he knew how dangerous they could be. Not only were there lots of hungry predators underground, but mutants seemed moremon down there as well. Normal hobgoblins couldnt be counted on to fight mutants.


    We need both iron and stone, so Ill have to clear the tunnels, cknail told his minions. He didnt see any other option.


    He then turned to Imp. I will need light crystals and mages.


    Imp nodded in agreement. Of course, boss. Ive got lots of apprentices and light stones. Making them is easy for me now, and Ive already been sending mages to light the tunnels for the miners.


    That reminded cknail of his Elixir shortage, so he immediately asked the hobgoblin mage to bring him some. Imp gave a quick bow and then hurried off to retrieve the magical liquid. While he was gone, cknail went over some details with the others, but he didn''t have to wait long. A few minutester, Imp returned and handed cknail a small ss vial. He shook it and watched the familiar dusky liquid inside slosh around, before uncorking the vial and downing its contents. The Elixir tasted exactly the same as always as he gulped it down, and he felt a tingle as the power began to seep into his body. Yes, he could feel himself growing stronger. It felt


    Without warning, cknail gagged and vomited all over Imp. As Imp unhappily began wiping himself off, cknail swayed and wobbled. He tried to steady himself, but it was all he could do to stop himself from vomiting again.


    I think you messed that vial up, cknail remarked as he slowly began to feel better. Normally, hed punish Imp for such a failure, but he was undoubtedly already regretting his mistake.


    Imp used a finger to wipe some vomit off his face and then tasted it. My Elixir was fine. That vial was part of a batch youve taken before.


    Good Elixir doesnt make me sick, cknail pointed out.


    It didnt use to, but now Imp said as he gave cknails changed body a meaningful look.


    cknail frowned. This wasnt good. Can you make me a new Elixir?


    Maybe, Ill need some of your blood, Imp told him. What exactly happened after you drank the Elixir? Do you feel magical at all?


    That was a good question. Closing his eyes, cknail focused on the state of his own body. Hmmm, he actually did feel like there was some new energy flowing through his blood, but not a lot of it. Less than what he usually got out of a vial of Elixir. Huh, he could also feel that power draining away to somewhere. Opening his eyes, he exined this to Imp.


    Avorlus would know more. All I can do is test your blood and tweak your Elixir, boss, the mage replied.


    Grunting in displeasure, cknail agreed to visit Imps workshopter and to send a message to Avorlus. The human mage was an expert Elixir maker and owed cknail a lot, but hed gone to Herstcrest to study a crystal cave theyd found there. That was inconvenient. cknail was beginning to get really frustrated about not understanding how is own body worked. Unfortunately, he hadnt really been to curious about mutants in the past. All hed had to know was how to kill them.


    cknail had been nning on doing some sparring, to show off his body in front of his minions and find out his own limits, but now he didnt feel like it. It could wait until he felt better. Drinking that Elixir  and then vomiting it up  had made his stomach more than a little queasy. However, he didnt have time to rest. There was still lots to do.


    How are the road crews doing? cknail asked Gob. Hed orderedrge work parties to build roads to all the nearby settlements a while back. Last time hed checked, theyd only finished the one leading to Shelter and were still working on the one heading to Herstcrest.


    The way to Herstcrest is half done, but the minions getzier the further from the base they are, so it has slowed down, Gob quickly exined.


    Grunting, cknail considered his options. It sounded like hed have to go there personally if he wanted to speed things up, but he didnt have time for that right now. Lets focus on the wall.


    Then we need the caves cleared so we can send more miners down there, Ferrar pointed out.


    Ill go take a look down there now. Imp wille with me, cknail said with a deep sigh. His stomach was feeling better, and he was only nning on looking around, so he wanted to get it over with.


    Imp acknowledged his chieftain with a nod. I have everything I need on me and I live to serve, boss.


    Id like toe too, so I can examine the mine and what needs done, Ferrar added.


    You could also take a few hobs with you, chief, Gob suggested as he motioned for three of the nearby hobgoblins to step forward. You are too mighty to fear anything, but Imp and Ferrar could use some guards.


    cknail agreed with his minions ideas, and his small party was soon headed for thergest cave in Ironbreak. It was where almost all the mining was done. The entrance to the cave had used to be at the bottom of a steep rocky hole in the ground, but it had been dug up to make it easier to ess. Now there was a wide dirt ramp leading down. cknail walked down to the cave entrance and peered inside. The cave was dark and gloomy, but he thought he saw some lighting from deeper within it, and there was also a steady nging noise echoing out.


    While cknail was studying the cavern, Imp began fiddling with his staff. The hobgoblin mage turned a screw a few times and then the crystal on the top of the staff came loose. He then removed the crystal and reced it with a new one from a pouch. After tightening the screw again, Imp raised his staff, and the cavern was flooded with white light. This allowed cknail to get a much better look at the way forward.


    Alright, in we go, cknail announced as he began walking. His minions quickly followed after him.


    There was nothing but rocks and hanging stctites in sight as they moved through the first part of the cave. At first, cknail couldnt see the glimmer of light from before because of a bend in the tunnel ahead and the radiance of Imps staff. However, the source of the light and noise came into sight when they passed the bend. The tunnel continued on, and up ahead of them was a goblin work crew. Four goblins were attacking the cave wall with picks, while two more goblins were gathering up some of the rubble they knocked loose and putting it in sacks. Behind them, a hobgoblin with a spear was standing guard while a goblin mage with a crystal in hand was providing them all with light.


    None of the work crew noticed the neers right away, but as they walked over, the hobgoblin guard noticed Imps light and nced their way. Seeing cknail, he immediately saluted and stood at attention.


    Carry on, were just inspecting the cave, cknail exined as he stopped to study the miners.


    Theyre mining gold, not iron, cknail observed a momentter. Wasnt iron far more useful?


    Ferrar stepped up beside him and nodded. Yes, we were running low on gold. Weve been trading it to the humans for tools and lessons. Building your mansion requires a lot of help from humans and gold is used for some of the decorations.


    Oh, thats fine then. Carry on, cknail replied before walking past the workers and heading deeper into the cave. It sounded like Ferrar knew what he was doing, and cknails mansion was important, even if hed almost forgotten about ordering his minions to build it for him. A true leader needed to a have magnificent house that would impress all the lesser people.


    Where do you get the iron? cknail asked Ferrar as they walked. Hed never actually seen it mined.


    We got it from loose rocks up above at first, but we used that up quick. Now we get it from another cave up ahead, Ferrar exined. Instead of replying, cknail just grunted in acknowledgement.


    There was a pile of rocks up ahead. It had used topletely block off the way forward, but some time ago the pile had copsed, so now there was a way around it. cknail remembered fighting a slime here when hed firste this way, so he studied the shadows cast by the rocks suspiciously, but he didnt see anything.


    As the party travelled deeper into the caves, cknail noticed signs of activity that hadnt been there before. Goblin tracks were visible in the dirt and there was more loose rubble around. Soon, they came to another bend in the tunnel, and cknail saw a huge new crack in the wall that hadnt been there before. When had that appeared? Frowning, cknail carefully crept over to the hole and peered within. However, the chasm was too deep for Imps light to prate. It was impossible to see where it led.


    We should probably seal this up with rock, cknail muttered before continuing on his way.


    We have before, something keeps opening it, Ferrar replied.


    Moving on, they soon reached a familiar fork in the tunnel. From experience, cknail knew that the route to the left continued on into deeper tunnels, while the other led to an underground river.


    Ferrar pointed to the left tunnel. Our miners all go this way. Its where the iron is.


    cknail nodded as he studied both passages. Theyde down here to see the mines, so obviously they should go left, but he hesitated. With narrowed eyes, cknail studied the rightward tunnel. He felt somethinging from that direction, something strange. It was almost like a cool breeze on his skin, except the air was still. The feeling made him intensely curious. What was it?


    Without bothering to exin anything to his minions, cknail began heading toward the underground river. Something was pulling him that way, and he wanted to know what it was. As cknail walked, the feeling grew stronger. His skin began to tingle ever so slightly. It was invigorating, like a breath of fresh air after hed been holding his breath.


    Soon, cknail and his followers reached the entrance to the cave that contained the underground river. As the gentlepping of water on stone reached their ears, Imp and cknail stepped forward and cautiously looked into the chamber using the light from Imps staff. It was a huge open space and cknail knew it was dangerous. Hed run into giant crabs and huge predatory smanders here before.


    The white light from Imps mage staff radiated out into the dark expanse of the cave, illuminating arge part of it, but not quite reaching the far end. An uneven rocky incline led down from where cknail was to the main floor. There, the river shimmered with reflected light as its flowing length cut the cave in half. Around it, dozens of tall stone columns jutted out of the ground. These rocks cast a host of deep shadows that practically anything could have been hiding in.


    Suddenly, the shadows next to one of the closest columns shifted and a shape emerged. It was a crab the size of a veryrge dog or pony. It had long spindly legs and a pale grey shell. Two powerful-looking ws hung beneath its round body, which had two beady ck eyes set in it. As cknail watched, the creature skittered closer to his party. At the same time, there was movement from other nearby spots. Three crabs whose rugged shells had disguised them as rocks rose up while two more slipped out of the darkness. The creatures quickly formed a small pack as they headed for the hobgoblins.

 On Winters Wings 4

    On Winter''s Wings 4


    The mob of giant crabs scuttled over the rocks that littered the cavern floor as they headed straight for cknails party. The hobgoblin guards that hade along eyed them nervously. The creatures werent that tall, but they had thick carapaces, and ws that were powerful enough to crush limbs. Even with spears, they would be dangerous opponents for normal hobgoblins.


    Want me to blow them up, boss? Imp asked as he held his glowing staff up high. Its white light was illuminating the depths of the cave around them.


    No, I got this, cknail answered confidently as he began walking forward alone. No one tried to stop him as he headed down the rocky incline, and he hadnt expected them to.


    The sound of moving water filled cknails ears as the underground river in the middle of the cave continued to ebb and flow. Now that he was in the huge cavern, the cool energy that had drawn him here was even stronger. It washed over him, making him feel stronger and invigorated. As a result, confidence filled cknail. There was an excited grin on his face as he drew his de and stepped forward to meet the first crab.


    The creature made an angry gurgling sound as it shed at cknails chest with an open w. However, the w snapped shut on open air. cknail easily sidestepped the blow. He then leaned forward and stabbed the tip of his sword into the creatures mouth. It tore through what little shell was there with ease and then sank deep into the crabs flesh. Grunting with effort, cknail pushed forward, and his de slid even deeper. The crab instantly quivered and began to fall as its insides were shredded by sharp steel, so cknail withdrew his de and jumped back. As he moved, a w swipe from another crab missed him by a hair. The stupid things were faster than they looked.


    However, cknails movement were even more quick and powerful. He was still drawing in the energy around him, and it was making up for hisck of Elixir. Actually, it felt somewhat simr. Jumping sideways to avoid two charging crabs, cknail shed at a third. His de sliced into its arm at the joint - where there was no carapace to protect it  and the creatures w was cut right off.


    Unfortunately, the other crabs had used this time to surge forward and surround cknail. The hobgoblin just grinned, though. He wasnt worried. The unknown power had seeped into cknails body. It pooled in his blood in a familiar way, so he used it. With an act of will, cknail ignited the energy in his blood and pulled it up into his head. He then pushed it out as an invisible wave, which washed over the gathered crabs. The result was exactly as if hed been using Elixir. The magic tore into the beasts minds, filling them with unnatural terror. cknail could feel the power go to work.


    Inhuman hissing filled the air as the crabs began stumbling backwards. Two of the creatures even collided and fought briefly as they hurried away from cknail as fast as they could. Soon, the entire mob was scuttling away at top speed. As he watched, the crabs separated and disappeared back into shadows or slipped into the river.


    Ferrar made his way down to cknails side and picked up a severed crab arm. I bet these taste great if you cook them right.


    He was swiftly followed by the other hobgoblins, including Imp. Now that it was safe, they all descended the rocky incline and made their way to their chief.


    Why did wee down here, boss? Imp asked as he joined cknail. The mines are the other way.


    cknail had been studying the far reaches of the cavern, but now he turned to face the other hobgoblin. I wanted to explore. There is something here, and were going to find it.


    There were some openings in the wall over to cknails left, so that was where he headed. The cavern he was in had plenty of passages leading out of it, but many of them were on the other side of the river and crossing that waterway would be dangerous. Not only would it be a treacherous ce to swim, but it was full of strange creatures such as crabs and giant predatory smanders. There might even be much worse things that had yet to reveal themselves.


    Thankfully, the crabs kept their distance as cknails group crossed the cave. When they reached the passages there, cknail studied them. One was a short dead-end, while the second just felt wrong. The third looked promising though, so he jumped over the rocks in front of it and then helped Imp up. As his minions climbed after him, cknail then headed inside.


    The passage was tall but tight and the walls were a smooth rock that was so dark it was almost ck. Water had worn channels in the floor but only a few small stctites hung from the ceiling. Imp followed right behind cknail, but the winding nature of the tunnel meant they couldnt see too far ahead. However, after a few minutes, the passage widened significantly until the entire group could have walked through it side-by-side. Natural shelves appeared on the walls, and most of them werent empty. A colorful assortment of mushrooms grew from heaps of dirt that had been piled on them. The light from Imps staff also glinted off the shiny rainbow-colored shells of harvester beetles as they moved among the fungus or flew through the air.


    Ive seen these bugs up in the forest, eating leaves, a hobgoblin observed as he leaned down to study a cluster of mushrooms. You cant eat them.


    cknail snorted before haughtily correcting his ignorant minion. They dont eat leaves. Harvesters bring stuff down here to make these piles, then they eat the mushrooms that grow. Also, you should watch out. Sometimes bigger bugs with venomous tails hide in those mushrooms.


    Oh, you sure are smart, boss, the hobgoblin replied as he carefully stepped back.


    Of course, I am. Im the smartest, cknail exined as he looked around.


    He hadnte down this passage to look for harvesters, and now the energy hed been feeling was weaker. They must have gone the wrong way. cknail turned to head back the way theyde, but Ferrar stopped him.


    Look, there on the ground; tracks, the hobgoblin said as he pointed at a spot up ahead.


    Frowning, cknail leaned down to get a better look. He almost immediately saw what Ferrar was talking about. The ground here was very dusty - probably because of the harvesters dragging dirt in  and there were some obvious scuff marks. Some of the them resembled footprints. In fact, they sort of looked like goblin tracks.


    Do goblins live down here? cknail wondered aloud. Hed never seen any.


    None of my workers have mentioned seeing ferals down here, Ferrar replied.


    None of our goblins would evere here. Theyd get eaten, Imp added helpfully. Several hobgoblins nodded along. They seemed worried about getting eaten themselves.


    cknail sighed. Of course, none of his minions were helpful. He had to do and learn everything himself. Leaning down, cknail sniffed the ground, but all he could smell was rotting nt matter, dung, and mushrooms. The rich scent of the harvester farms was too strong.


    Well follow these tracks for a bit before heading back. Be silent; were hunting, he told his minions as he began walking further down the tunnel. There was really only one way the makers of the tracks could havee from.


    Moving with stealth now, cknails party crept forward through the tunnel. Imp fell to the back of the group and dimmed his light until it was only a meagerest of glows. Hobgoblins had great night vision, but they couldnt see when there was no light at all. Around them, some of the mushrooms began to give off their own glows in response to the return of darkness. It was still difficult to see in such dim light, though. cknail listened intently as he carefully navigated through the maze of shadows and rocks. His ears twitched overtime the heard a drip of water or a tiny critter skittering through the dark, but he stayed focused.


    They continued on this way for several minutes, until cknail thought he detected a hint of light up ahead. Motioning for Imp to stay behind, he stalked forward through the dark until he reached the end of the passage. Anotherrge cave chamber opened up in front of him, so he hid himself behind arge rock and peered out.


    Thankfully, cknails eyes had grown used to the gloom, so he was able to study the scene before him. It was arge cavern, and it looked to be full of huge mushrooms, some of which were glowing. The size of the fungus surprised cknail. Hed never even heard of anything like it. It was difficult to see, since only a few of the mushrooms were glowing, but some of them had to be as tall as people. As he watched, cknail also saw small dark figures move among the shadowy forest of fungus, but he couldnt tell what they were. They were about the right size for goblins, though. Weird.


    After a few moments, cknails minions joined him, including Imp, whodpletely shut off his staff. cknail considered his options for a moment, but then decided hed seen all that he could from here. It was also unlikely that hed be able to sneak closer undetected, so he turned to Imp and signaled for the mage to light the way. With a nod of acknowledgement, Imp did as he was told. He raised his staff and it burst to life. Bright white light radiated forth, lighting up the cavern before them.


    Shielding his eyes to protect his vision, cknail quickly stepped out from behind his rock and looked around. He was now able to see a lot more of the fungal forest. Mushrooms of all forms and sizes rose up from a dark mass of rich-looking dirt that covered the floor of the cave. Above them, shinning droplets of water dripped down from stctites. However, cknail was looking for movement. The sudden burst of light had startled the inhabitants of the cave, sending them running. cknail was only briefly able to glimpse a bunch of pale grey forms before they dashed away. He hadnt gotten a very good look, but theyd been vaguely goblin-like, even if they were the wrong color. All the goblins hed seen had been some shade of green.


    Were those goblins? a hobgoblin asked.


    I dont know, cknail replied as he walked forward to study the mushrooms.


    Almost the entire cave was full of towering fungus. A few skinny tubr ones were almost twice as tall as a hobgoblin, and they were a startling purple color. There were also plenty of capped mushrooms of various colors, and even a few big white balls that were too perfectly spherical to be rocks.


    Thats a lot of mushrooms, Ferrar remarked in an impressed tone. cknail nodded in agreement. He wondered if they could be used as an emergency food supply.


    Do any of you want to try eating some mushrooms? he asked his minions.


    Which ones are poisonous, boss? one of the guards asked.


    I have no idea, cknail admitted. He wasnt sure if these giant mushrooms were the same as the smaller type, just bigger, or if they werepletely different.


    In the end, no one decided to try eating any of the fungus, so cknail led his party back the way theyde. There was no way they were going to run down any of the pale creature snow, so there was no point in sticking around. He still wanted to track down the source of the energy as well, and this was definitely the wrong way for that. The energy was even weaker now, although it was still around. Underground, it never seemed to vanishpletely.


    A brief hike led them back to the river chamber, and once there, cknail selected another passage to try exploring. This one was wider and wetter. The ceiling dripped, and as a result pools of water were scattered around the floor. However, using Imps light, they were able to navigate it easily, while only getting a little damp. As they walked, it soon became obvious that the tunnel sloped downward, deeper into the earth. cknail also quickly realized hed chosen the right passage. The energy in the air grew noticeably stronger as they headed down. It felt good.


    How far are we going? Ferrar asked nervously after a while.


    Im the leader. We go until we find what Im looking for, cknail replied testily without slowing.


    Soon after that, cknail saw the light of Imps staff reflect off something in the wall. Excited, he peered at the object. It was a blue crystal, and it was growing straight out of the wall.


    A mana crystal, Imp observed. He sounded excited as well.


    Yes, cknail agreed as he turned to peer down the tunnel in front of them. He thought he saw more glints of light up ahead, so be began walking again.


    Sure enough, the walls of the cave further down were studded with small crystals. cknail briefly looked them over as he walked past. Imp and the others were forced to hurry after him, and soon they came to the end of the tunnel. A rocky round chamber about the size of a housey in front of them. There was no way to continue on, but there was arge crack in one of the walls. It was surrounded by crystals, and it was obviously the source of the strange energy. The air was thick with power here. It tingled cknails skin as it washed over him.


    The crack was too tight for anything thicker than a finger to fit through. cknail studied it for a moment from afar and then began to walk over to get a closer look, but then a noise caught his attention. There was tter of falling stones from the opposite side of the cave. cknail turned to look, and saw a huge white smander slide out from behind some rocks. Hed been too focused on the crevice to notice it, and its skin had camouged it in with the stone.


    cknail had seen the predatory smanders that lived in these caves before, but this one was different. While it was the same pale white as the others andpletelycked eyes, this smander was much bigger. It looked to be at least three time the weight of a hobgoblin. The reason for its size was obvious. It had a rows of translucent crystal spikes running down its back. It was a mutant, and undoubtedly it had been drawn here by the same energy as cknail.


    There was silence as the hobgoblins studied this new threat. Then, all the minions began backing up slowly. Apparently, theyd decided to let their chief deal with the problem. cknail red at them for a moment, but then had to turn and focus on the smander. What a bunch of useless cowards. Well, whatever. They wouldnt be much help anyway, and cknail was feeling confident. The energy from fissure was flowing through him, and he wanted to test out his new body. He felt like pushing his limits would help him grow. Also, if he started losing, he could always order Imp to st the thing into bloody pulp.


    Stepping forward, cknail drew his de and met the smanders gaze. They stared each other down, like beasts before a kill. Er cknail stared at where the creatures eyes would have been if it hadnt been born eyeless. It knew he was there, right? cknail was going to feel silly if he was posturing for no reason.


    Suddenly, the creature reared up and hissed at cknail, revealing rows of needle-like teeth. Apparently, it could sense the hobgoblins location. cknail had mixed feelings about that.


    Stay back, cknail told his minions before lunging toward the mutant.


    The hobgoblin chief held his de ready as he charged at his foe. The smander reacted by hissing again and then rearing back as if to strike. However, before cknail got anywhere near its striking range, the mutants head jerked forward, and it opened its mouth. Confused, cknail stared at its countless pointy teeth and pink gums. What? That posture was just making the smander vulnerable


    Then, as the hobgoblin continued to move closer, the empty space between the beasts jaws began to ripple and glow. cknail reacted instantly. He stopped his charge and threw himself to the side. He was just in time. A st of green flew through the space hed been upying a second ago and hit the cave wall. The power sshed against the stone and started sizzling as it dripped down. As cknail rolled to the side, he nced over and saw the green liquid begin to bubble as it ate through the rock. He instantly decided that not getting hit by that sludge was his new number one priority.


    cknail jumped to his feet and raised his sword, but the blind smander hadnt remained still afterunching its first attack. With eerie precision, its eyeless head tracked cknails movements, and then it opened it jaws again. cknail was paying attention. The second he saw the air distort, he jumped to the side. Another green missile shot past him as he charged the smander again.


    The mutant apparently couldnt fire its magical sts in quick session, because cknail was able to close the distance without having to dodge again. The smander just hissed and readied itself to meet him. Running past several tall rocks, cknail raised his de and then shed down at the creatures head. It reared back and opened its mouth, as if to try and bite down on the de, so cknail adjusted his swing. The hobgoblin grinned as his sword sliced right toward the mutants exposed neck. It didnt connect. Without warning, he smanders tail came out of nowhere. The long appendage mmed into cknails side with a loud crack that knocked the air from his lungs, and he was sent flying away.

 On Winters Wings 5

    On Winter''s Wings 5


    Carried by the force of the giant smanders blow, cknail flew through the air and mmed into the cave wall. There was a loud crack from his spine as it impacted the uneven stone surface. Then, he slid down the wall and hit the floor. <em>Ouch.</em> Pain stabbed through cknails entire body. He was more than a little disoriented, but he immediately found the strength to jump to his feet. The memory of what the smanders acidic magic had done to the rock wall was still fresh in his mind, and he desperately wanted to avoid finding out what getting hit by that felt like.


    cknail got ready to dodge another attack by the blind smander, but it didnte. Instead, he saw a shimmering ball of force fly by and hit the smander in the side. The mutant creature hissed violently as it was knocked sideways by the impact. It skidded and stumbled across the cave floor until it hit a stgmite, but it didnt appear too hurt. cknail nced over and saw Imp standing at the cave entrance with his staff pointed at the mutant. Behind him, several other hobgoblins were cautiously peeking out from behind cover.


    cknail scowled at them. He hated looking weak in front of his minions. I didnt need help. I had it right where I wanted it.


    It smashed you into a wall, Imp pointed out.


    Exactly, I was fooling it into dropping its guard, cknail replied arrogantly before huffing in indignation.


    Wait, why did his side feel wet? Reaching down, cknail touched his ribs and his hand came away covered in blood. The smanders tail was studded with small sharp crystals. One of them must have cut him. cknail grunted. Now he wanted to return the favor and headbutt the smander using his new horns. That would probably be a terrible strategy, though.


    Imps expression was carefully nk. Ah, then youre a very good pretender, boss. You sure fooled me too.


    Of course I did. Im one of the best actors ever. I hunt a lot of humans that way, cknail agreed in satisfaction as he turned to focus on the smander again. It was getting back on its feet, and it looked about as mad as an eyeless smander could look.


    Shoot it again, cknail told Imp.


    There was an amused sounding sigh from Imp as he obeyed. Another magical strikeshed out of his staff. However, this time the blind smander sensed iting somehow. It jumped to the side and dodged the st. Imp was capable of creating bigger sts, but he was probably keeping the power down so that he didnt start a cave-in. A small st was all the distraction that cknail needed, though.


    Now its mine, he yelled as he charged the creature.


    cknail wouldnt normally do something stupid like seeking out a one-on-one fight, but he wanted to test himself. He suspected that facing some real danger and pushing himself to his limit was the only way he was going to figure out how his new mutant body really worked, and not understanding himself was uneptable. When cknail had first be a hobgoblin, his old master Saeter had literally beat the value of discipline into him. However, you couldnt control yourself without first knowing yourself. Every moment of ignorance invited ruin.


    The pale smander reacted quickly to cknails charge. It scrabbled over to a tall rock, so its nk was protected from Imp, and then it shot another green st at cknail. The hobgoblin chieftain lunged to the side, but he stumbled over a loose rock at thest second. Apparently, he was still a little unsteady on his feet. Thankfully, the smanders magical attack didnt hit him. It zoomed right past, missing by less than an inch, and actually eating through the edge of his cloak. Grimacing, cknail caught his bnce and resumed his charge toward the blind smander. That had been a little too close forfort.


    The smander was too close now for it to try another acid st, so it decided to meet cknails charge. It scrambled out from behind the rock and lunged at him. As they closed, the pale mutant opened its mouth wide. At the same time, cknail raised his sword and prepared to strike. Just as the smander began to bite down, he spun out of the way. Then, he ducked under the tail swipe that followed and shed the creatures side. There was a hiss of pain from the mutant as it spun around to bite him, but cknail leaned back away from the strike and countered by shing the creatures neck. He was then forced to jump back as the smander reared-up and shed at his face with a wed forelimb.


    cknails body ached from his previous wounds, but he was steely calm as he twisted around and caught his bnce. Through the pain, he could feel his body and the magic within it. The power that radiated from this cavern was still flowing around him and seeping into his blood. It was simr to how Elixir worked, but cknail was now aware of one big difference. Instead of pooling and building up in his blood, the magic was being drawn away into a single point within the center of his chest. That was why he hadnt been able to feel the power before. Yes, now cknail could really fight.


    There was an enraged growl from the blind mutant and it snapped at cknail again. The hobgoblin dodged to the side and reached down within himself. He sought out the core where his power was resting. He could feel it; it burned bright like a star. Really, he had no idea how hed managed to stay ignorant of its existence until now.


    At cknailsmand, power surged out of the burning core, filling his body. It was very simr to drinking Elixir, and it empowered him the same way. A bloodthirsty smile appeared on cknails face as he lunged at the giant Smander. With startling speed his de sliced into the creatures shoulder and tore through it. Even cknail was surprised. He almost stumbled. That had been faster than hed ever moved before.


    The blind smander was bleeding from several wounds now, but it was far from finished. While cknail was admiring himself, it jumped back and shot a st of acid at him. Tapping into his new strength, cknail sidestepped the magical strike and then lunged forward. As his de sliced down at the creatures head, the beast dodged to the side and swung at the hobgoblin with its tail. Instead of hopping back again, cknail decided to have some fun. He jumped over the crystal-studded tail as it whipped his way. Then, as he flew toward the blind smander, he raised his de high up above his head dramatically.


    The smander had time to react, it reared back as if in preparation to strike at cknail while he was still in the air. However, cknail had anticipated that. He pulled power out of his bright core and dragged it up into his head. His thoughts grew clearer and faster, even as the furious power made focusing on anything but itself harder. Then, cknail snarled and pushed the power out at the smander. The magic rippled as it shot through the air and mmed into the smander. The eyeless creature shivered as the power tore into it, and then it froze from terror. The wave of fear had overwhelmed its mind for a moment. That was all the time cknail needed. As he fell toward the smander, he swung down at its neck with all his power. His muscles strained as metal met flesh, but the de cut through skin and sliced into the creature. Blood sprayed out of the wound as arge artery was severed, and a gurgling sound escaped the creatures throat. As cknail kicked the smanders shoulder and used the leverage to tug his de free, the beast spasmed violently and then copsed onto the cave floor. A pool of shimmering dark blood swiftly began expanding out from its body as itypletely still. Laughing gleefully, cknail hopped over the blood and gave the corpse a kick. Hed won and grown stronger doing it! Was there any better feeling than cutting your enemies apart?


    A few secondster, cknail rxed and took a series of deep breaths. His euphoria quickly faded and was reced by weariness as he wiped his de clean and sheathed it. As he looked down at his fallen foe, he could feel what he suspected was magic radiating out from its body now that it was dead. cknail closed his eyes for a moment and let himself feel what was going on around him. His own body seemed to be pulling that power in and draw it into his core, where it was stored forter use.


    Congrattions on your incredible victory, boss, Ferrar announced as he led the other hobgoblins over to cknails side.


    Imp gave cknail a quick nod, and then the mage walked over to the fallen smander and pulled out a long knife. Kneeling down, he began cutting into its belly. A momentter, he reached in up to his elbow, and began rummaging around for its core. Blood got everywhere, but Imp didnt seem to care. He was focused on his prize.


    My victory was never in doubt. That stupid mutant was easy prey for a great hunter like me, cknail said as he turned to face Ferrar. He had to suppress a pained grimace, since his side was beginning to hurt again now that he wasnt reinforcing himself using magic anymore.


    Ferrar nodded. Yes, you are truly amazing, boss. What do you want to do now that the beast is in?


    cknail frowned and looked around. He felt like taking a bit of a rest and enjoying the quiet atmosphere for a while. The cave was still full of power he could absorb.


    Im going to stay here and enjoy the um air for a few minutes. Go wait outside and give me some quiet, he told his minions.


    Imp had apparently found the blind smanders core. The hobgoblin was sttered with blood as he walked over to join the others. Ferrar looked confused, but he gave cknail a quick bow and did as he was told. All the other hobgoblins followed him back out into the passage that led into the crystal chamber.


    The air smells like dead fish and worms in there. Why would the chief a hobgoblin observed as they walked out. Hispanion just silenced him with a stern look, and then they were out of sight.


    When all his minions were gone, cknail walked over to the crack in the wall. The chamber was much darker without the light from Imps staff, but several of the crystals on the walls glowed dimly, and that provided cknail with enough light to make his way around. cknail studied the crevice and the crystal around it for a moment. He could feel the magic flowing out of it, and he hungered for it. Thus, since he didnt have a better idea, he sat down on the floor in front of it and closed his eyes. In the dark, he just let the power wash over him and be drawn down into his core. It was very rxing and satisfying, like taking a deep drink of cool water after being out in the hot sun for too long.


    cknail lost track of time as he focused on his breathing and the flow of magic. Actually, he may have fallen asleep for a moment or two, but eventually he began to feel sated. He also knew that he couldnt to sit there forever, so he reluctantly climbed to his feet. Making his way through the dark chamber, he walked out to join his minions in the passage.


    Several of them were napping, but a few swift kicks got everyone up and moving. Once they reached the underground river chamber, cknail used his ability to project terror to send any creatures that approached skittering back into the shadows. After that, they soon got back to the intersection that led toward the surface and the mines, so they finally began their tour of the mines. cknail found them to be rather unimpressive. They were just a bunch of long tunnels full of rocks and spotted by the asional harvester farm, pool of water, or bottomless pit. However, looking around did help hime to a better understanding of what would be required to secure the mines and get production up. Cracks needed to be sealed, guard posts needed to be set up at chokepoints, and patrols would be needed to inspect the sealed cracks.


    All of cknails minions were tired and weary by the time they got back up to the surface, so he gave them a few orders and then dismissed them. Only Ferrar remained behind, since they had more to talk about. Imp hurried back to his workshop to examine his new mana crystal, and hopefully clean up a bit. He was still soaked in smander blood and it had started to smell.


    How is my houseing? Backnail asked Ferrar after theyd discussed the operation of the mine for a while.


    Slow but steady, boss. I let the humans from Shelter take charge of that project, since they know more about it and Im busy with other jobs. Humans are good at fancy things.


    cknail nodded in agreement. They are, but dont let them work too slowly. I want my fancy house before the snows.


    Why dont I just show you whats been done? Ferrar asked.


    That sounded like a good idea to cknail, so he let the hobgoblin craftsman take him over toward the center of the settlement. That was where the mansion was under construction. The home was far from done, but arge area had been dug up and filled in with a foundation made from stone and mortar. There were severalrge piles of logs and other construction materialying nearby, and a few exterior walls had already been raised. When it was done, the mansion would be several timesrger than any of the longhouses. It would also be a lot more impressive looking.


    It looked good, but cknail really wanted the work to go faster. Right now, he was still sleeping in a cave. It was a rather nice cave and hed never had any problems with it, but as an important leader, he needed a fancier home than everyone else.


    Cant you go any faster? he asked Ferrar.


    We could use the stone from the mine and mortar to help build your homes walls. It would be a good test for the settlements walls, but it would also slow down work on them, Ferrar suggested.


    Fine, if you think thats a good idea, cknail agreed reluctantly. Why couldnt his minions just do everything at the same time? Obviously, they were spoiled rotten.


    A stone home would look fancier than a wood one, Ferrar pointed out.


    It would also be harder to burn down, cknail replied as he gave the other hobgoblin a meaningful look.


    True, some of the goblins around here like ying with fire too much, Ferrar agreed as he frowned in disapproval.


    cknails eyes narrowed as red at the other hobgoblin. And you dont do that?


    I never y with fire! Its no toy. You have to respect the mes and offer them proper sacrifices if you want to summon their full might! Only then will they bless you with warmth and power. Only then will they let you transform the world with their searing glory!


    cknail was fairly certain that was an even more troubling way of thinking. Still, Ferrar hadnt burned down anything too important yet, so cknail let it go. He dismissed Ferrar and went to find something else to do. After resting in the cave and drawing in so much mana, he was full of more mundane energy as well. He needed to do something to burn it off. His muscles were practically aching to be used. He wanted to just start running around until he copsed.


    However, cknail didnt break out into a run. That would look undignified, and probably scare a lot of goblins. Instead, he ended up wandering around until he found a spot outside the walls where several hobgoblins were chopping down trees. He grabbed an axe and joined in. This startled the nearby hobgoblins, who were quite surprised to find their towering chief began attacking all the nearby trees. cknail ignored them. They were just minions. He focused on burning as much energy as possible. For what was possibly the first time ever, working hard felt good.


    Eventually, Gob and several other hobgoblins arrived and walked over to talk to their boss. cknail registered their presence but didnt stop hacking at the tree in front of him. Chips of wood flew away as his axe bit deep into it again and again.


    What are you doing, boss? Gob asked him.


    Im helping the work crews chop down some trees, cknail replied as he continued to work.


    The crew left almost an hour ago.


    cknail finally stopped swinging his axe. He let its heavy iron head fall to the ground as he turned to look around. Huh, Gob was right. There were no more hobgoblins workers around. He hadnt even noticed them sneak away. What a bunch of ckers.


    I dont think we need any more trees felled, Gob observed politely. There were dozens of the fallen giants already in sight.


    You may be right, cknail admitted. Maybe I should gather up some minions and carry these logs inside?


    Gob frowned. It didnt seem like he thought that was a good idea. However, Herah stepped forward and licked her lips as her eyes studied every inch of cknails body. I can think of something sweaty and physical we could do together.


    cknail dropped his axe and grinned back at her. Sure, that sounds like fun.

 Book 3 Available Now and Book 1 Sale

    Book 3 Avable Now and Book 1 Sale


    Hello again readers! If you saw myst post then you''re probably aware that book 3 of The Iron Teeth is now avable at Amazon! The paperback will became avable sometimeter today.


    Also, I''m nning on putting my first book, <em>A Goblin''s Tale</em> on sale for 99c for a week or two, so look out for that. I''ve been told this is the thing to do now that I have three books out, and it will help new people find the series.


    If you''re interested in the ebooks, don''t worry if you''ve already read the web serial. Buying the e-book will not only give you ess to a revised and professionally edited version of the story that is worth rereading, but the book version alsoes with several new chapters that form a new arc, The Suffering Souls. This new adventure takes ce at the end of the book and is worth a read. It rounds out the story of cknail and several other characters, giving them some depth.


    Purchasing and<strong> leaving a review</strong> is a also just a great way of supporting the author. Every purchase and review works makes my books more visible on Amazon, and helps other potential readers find my writing. If you haven''t bought and reviewed the first and second books then please do that as well. Why not reread the revised and edited story right from the start?


    So, please head over to Amazon and check out my books! Every purchase and review helps a lot. Thank you all. I look forward to putting out a lot more content for you.

 On Winter’s Wings 6

    On Winter¡¯s Wings 6


    After several rounds of rolling around with Herah, which were interrupted only for snacks and meals, the pair eventually drifted off to sleep together in cknails bed. By that point, both of them were exhausted.


    Early, the next morning, cknail felt quite satisfied when he awoke next to Herahs sleeping form. Yesterday had been a good day, and he was happy that no one had assassinated him while hed been unconscious. Hed been a little worried about that, because hed let his guard down. Not only had he let Herah sleep over, but hed exhausted himself into an unusually deep sleep. That could have ended badly for him, but thankfully it hadnt.


    Shoving Herah aside, cknail got dressed and went out to supervise the work going on in Ironbreak. As the leader, it was his duty to make sure that there was as little cking off as possible going on. However, since the settlement was popted mostly by goblins, he knew he had his work cut out for him. Stupid minions. They were toozy to even try to assassinate him properly.


    cknail spent the next hour wandering around and screaming at everyone in sight who was cking off, which was basically everyone. When he was done with that, he headed over to check on his house. He wanted it done before winter set in for obvious reasons. For one thing, he had no idea how warm his cave was going to be when it started to really get cold.


    Not a lot had been aplished on the house since yesterday, so cknail decided that he had to intervene personally and provide everyone involved with motivation and leadership. Thus, after harassing the workers for a while to figure out what was slowing them down, he went to find Ferrar and Gob. Together, the three hobgoblins were able to round up some work crews and get the project moving faster. Parties of hobs and goblins were sent into the mine to fetch stone and shore it up. Construction was swiftly started on the improvements and defenses cknail and Ferrar had decided on yesterday. The caves were full of dangers, so the miners had to be kept safe or they couldnt concentrate on their work.


    Once the mine was running smoothly and production was up, cknail focused on the house itself. In Ironbreak, there were always some goblinszing about somewhere, so cknail had some more rounded up and added to the construction crew. If nothing else, they could help carry tools and heavy objects around. The mansion required a lot of stone and lumber and there was a shortage of wagons. However, since the actual construction was being nned and supervised by humans from Shelter, there was only so much cknail could do. He had to wait for them to show up, which wasnt until the next day. Then, cknail managed to negotiate for them to pick up the pace and bring in some more humans, mostly by making veiled threats and throwing small yellow rocks at them.


    It took a few days for cknail to get everything moving along at a pace he approved of. During that time, he visited Herah quite a few times to vent his frustration. This left her quite satisfied but also left her too tired to do much else. The female hobgoblin spent a lot of time napping and recovering her energy. As a bonus, this prevented her from talking much.


    Unfortunately, even with the construction of his mansioning along nicely, cknail knew there was a lot more that needed done. He still hadnte up with a real n for dealing with Werrick. The only thing he could do was try to increase his own powerbase before the Wolf attacked, and cknail disliked being on the defensive. Still, if Werrick nned on marching an army into the Green and all the way to Ironbreak, there were a lot of tricks cknail could y on him. The real danger was if the Wolf simply took back control over the roads to the south and forced cknail into hiding. There was little cknail could do to stop that, and it would make him look weak and deprive him of ess to human goods and recruits. He needed those if he was ever going to try and match Werricks forces.


    Theing change of seasons made even recruitment much moreplicated. Instead of growing his army, cknail knew he had to worry about keeping the minions he already had alive through the winter. Northern winters were cold and terrible. They imed the weak and the vulnerable without mercy. Preparation was needed to keep as many useful people alive as possible, and to figure out which people were useful. The most crucial concern was about food. When the snow came, it would kill off most the vegetation and severely hamper the tribes ability to forage. There were some fields of root vegetables growing outside the settlement walls, but cknail honestly had no idea if they were going to be even close to enough. It was a good thing that theyd still be able to hunt, but even there preparation was going to be key. Food needed to be preserved and stored properly.


    In Ironbreak there was arge cave set in the side of a hill that served as the officialrder. The chill air within it helped preserve food, and its only entrance was guarded night and day by a pair of hobgoblins. In a goblin settlement, thieves were always a problem. Bloody degenerates; cknail hated thieves with a passion. They were always trying to take his stuff. Anyway, therder already contained a fair amount of food. cknail had taught his minions how to smoke meat and dry roots, and everything that wasnt eaten was thrown in there. It wouldnt be enough tost the entire winter, though. Hopefully, the harvest of the fields would help with that. cknail also had a few other,rger ideas that would cut down on the settlements food consumption, but he was going to wait awhile to implement them. Most of his minions were still worth keeping around.


    cknail wasining to Geralhd about howzy and stupid his ever-hungry minions were when the other man made a suggestion. You know, cknail. You could always trade for necessities with some of those merchants caravans that pass through your territory. Your troops are already stopping them so that you can extract your toll. Why not just use some of that money to buy food or whatever else you find yourself requiring?


    Taken by surprise, cknail frowned thoughtfully. Huh, that was good idea. Hed forgotten that human merchants carried useful things. Hed sort of fallen into thinking that all they transported were stupid human things; like alcohol, perfume, or a hundred different colors of cloth.


    I will send some messengers south right away, cknail mused aloud before walking away to do just that. Geralhd didnt seem too annoyed by his abrupt departure.


    Food wasnt the only thing they would need to survive the winter, though. There was also the matter of shelter. Gob had supervised the construction of quite a few longhouses that would be able to keep a few hundred hobgoblins and goblins warm, but there was a problem. No one had any idea how many goblins there actually were in the settlement. The little nuisances were impossible to count. They were always running around everywhere and most of them didnt even have names. All cknail could do about the problem was to try and get as much shelter built as possible. Any goblins without homes would just have to tough it out. Ferals survived the winter just fine, somehow.


    The other hobgoblin leaders also had their own duties and kept themselves busy. Ferrar was charge of producing all sorts of materials. His furnaces created everything from pottery to workable iron. He was also in charge of the operation of the mine and the crafting of weapons and tools. The iron tools were particrly important. Not only was Ironbreak in constant need of new axes and shovels, but the tools could be traded to Shelter in return for human expertise and advice.


    After their excursion into the crystal cave, Imp had withdrawn into his workshop with some new crystal samples and had yet to leave. A constant loud bubbling sound was heard from within, and it was asionally punctuated by the sound of madughter, breaking ss, and explosions. cknail had avoided going in there himself, but hed questioned a few of Imps assistants whod managed to escape, and apparently this was all fairly normal for Imp.


    As usual, Gob kept things running smoothly wherever cknail himself couldnt be. He supervised the construction of log longhouses and the day-to-day running of Ironbreak. Everything that was too repetitive and boring for cknail was his job. There were a few duties that cknail had to help with though. As the leader, he was more important than everyone else. One of these duties was leading the warrior ceremony.


    During the ceremony, every hobgoblin could show off his fighting skills in an attempt to earn the warrior tattoo. It was just a small mark above their left eye, but it gave them bragging rights and more authority in battles. There was also a crafter and mage mark, but Imp and Ferrar handled those.


    The date of the next warrior ceremony swiftly arrived. cknail had been looking forward to taking part. It was perfect opportunity to show off his new body and its strength to the entire tribe. No one would dare challenge his authority when they saw how amazingly powerful he was!


    The ceremony itself took ce after a dinner feast where most the tribe was gathered around the training field. The sound of drums filled the air as goblins ate and mingled around severalrge bonfires. cknail was seated in the very middle of the feast, at the head of a table next to thergest fire. From there, he surveyed his gathered minions as he finished eating a leg of venison. Many of them nced his way when they thought he wasnt looking, and a mixture of fear and awe showed on their faces. cknail ignored them and smiled confidently to himself. He knew hisrge body and tall horns drew eyes. That was just natural. Without a doubt, his minions had never seen a hobgoblin as awesome as him. He was greatest hobgoblin ever, and they hadnt seen anything yet. He was going to show off his swordsmanship soon. That would really impress the green idiots.


    After letting his food settle in his stomach for a few more minutes, cknail got up and called for the beginning of the warrior ceremony. Immediately, the pace of the drumming picked up and the gathered green-skinned throng rose to its feet and began moving. This wasnt their first ceremony. They all knew what to do, and they wanted to get to it. All the hobs and goblins enjoyed the spectacle.


    To one side of the fires, the massed tribe formed a rough circle. They all stood facing inward as cknail walked out into the center of the group. He smiled as he studied the tightly packed ring of his minions.


    You all know why were here! cknail yelled once he reached the very center. There was a roar of excited approval from all the watchers.


    cknail stopped to listen for a second and then continued yelling. Were here to see who among you is worthy to be a true warrior of the tribe and serve me as a skilled sword. However, before we begin the testing, Im going to show you what true swordsman are like. I will duel the strongest warrior in the tribe, shi!


    At this news, there was another bout of mad yelling from the gathered hobgoblins and goblins. They were more than happy to watch any sort of fight, and one involving their chief sounded great. cknail just grinned and waved at them before turning to watch shi emerge from a group of hobgoblins to his left. He gave cknail a quick respectful bow before taking up position across from him.


    shi was tall for hobgoblin and his eyes shone with a focus that was very unusual. He had been named by cknail because he was the best swordsman among all the hobgoblins cknail had trained or fought. He was obsessed with sword fighting and spent all his free time practicing or finding new sparring partners among the humans. Thus, although hed only been a hobgoblin for a short while, he was already more skilled than cknail. That was just a pure skillparison, though. cknail was much smarter, and his supernatural strength meant he could easily defeat the other hobgoblin. This was just going to be a show and chance for him to show off.


    cknail drew his de and nodded at shi, who then drew his own weapon and stepped forward. Grinning, cknail rolled his shoulders to loosen them and then moved to engage. The drums picked up the pace again and the crowd screamed as cknail raised his de and shed down at his opponent. His de cleaved through the air, but shi easily side-stepped the attack and countered with a swift cut aimed at cknails arm.


    Leaning back slightly, cknail shifted his sword and blocked the blow. The two des collided and slid against each other, until cknail grunted and pushed shi away. The other hobgoblin couldnt hope to win a contest of strength, so he was forced back. He recovered quickly though and threw himself back into the fight with obvious excitement. There was a tight grin on his face as heunched a flurry of quick strikes designed to put cknail on the defensive. shi was happiest when he got to face a good opponent and test his skill.


    cknail easily blocked or dodged the iing blows. To his mutant eyes, shis moved werent particrly fast. It was also simple for him to react thanks to the power and speed of his new mutant body. Then there was his reach. cknails long arms gave him another advantage, and it was one that was obviously frustrating shi. Since he was so tall, he wasnt used to fighting a hobgoblin with longer limbs.


    Picking up the pace, cknail went on the attack. He stepped forward and pushed shi back with two lightning-quick blows. shi was forced to duck under one and then jump back. Filled with confidence, cknail attacked a few more times, but held back just enough so that shi could dodge. This was a demonstration after all. He didnt want it to end too quickly.


    After a few more seconds of desperate dodging and weaving, shi went on the attack again. He suddenly ducked in under a horizontal sh aimed at his head and charged forward. At the same time, he stabbed his de toward cknails chest. Caught off guard by the swift and smooth movement, cknail was forced to burn a bit of magic as he sidestepped the blow. He almost didnt make it, and he could swear his shirt was nudged by the de as it slid past.


    Scowling, cknail decided to end the fight. He drew power from the core in the center of his chest and felt the magic fill him. A momentter, his deshed out at shi. Startled by the unexpected speed of the blow, shi could only manage a clumsy block and was knocked backwards by the strength behind it. As he stumbled backwards, cknail pressed his advantage. All in one motion, he knocked the other hobgoblins de aside, stepped forward, and kicked him in the chest. There was a loud thud from the impact and the breath was knocked out of shis chest as he flew several feet backward and thennded on his back. He groaned and didnt try to get up.


    I win! cknail bragged loudly as he raised his arms victoriously. That drew another round of cheering from the spectators, probably because they knew better than to not agree with their chief as loudly as possible.


    Grinning, cknail motioned for Gob to send some minions over to carry shi away, and then he turned back to the crowd. Now the ceremony begins! Let the first challenger step forward.


    In response to cknails words, another hobgoblin emerged from the crowd. He gave his chieftain a deep respectful bow and then the duel began. He wasnt nearly as good as shi, so cknail was able to deal with him easily. He then left it to Gob to decide whether the applicant had passed, since he honestly wasnt sure what the standard was anymore. His new body made measuring his opponents skill urately hard. Everyone seemed equally weak.


    After that, the sky overhead began to darken as cknail fought several more bouts. None of the contestants stood out, and the cheers from the crowd slowly grew quieter as even the audience tired out. That was when thest contestant stepped forward. Instantly, cknail realized that something was different about him. He was average-sized for a hobgoblin but dressed almost like a human. He wore dark leather jacket over a tan shirt and leather pants. The outfit was not only clean but even seemed to match. On his head, he had two small ck horns. They had a twisted shape and were surrounded by short ck hair. cknail eyes the new hobgoblin curiously. There was something going on here. The applicants dark eyes shone with emotion and there was tight grin on his face. He seemed almost smug about something.


    Well, whatever. cknail raised his weapon and signaled for the challenge to start. His opponent hurriedly drew his own de and eagerly stepped forward. The light from the fire reflected off the steel of his weapon in an odd way that drew cknails attention. Was there something smeared on the de? Wait, was that poison! Was this an assassination attempt?

 On Winter’s Wings 7

    On Winter¡¯s Wings 7


    The well-dressed hobgoblin with ck hair smirked as he approached cknail. His poison-stained de was up in an aggressive position, but cknail wasnt too worried. There was no way some random hobgoblin hed never seen before was going to be a good enough fighter to cut him, especially now that he was aware of the poison. As a mutant, there was a good chance he was immune to the poison as well, although that would be a stupid thing to put to the test.


    Confidently, cknail stepped forward and unleashed a swift sh at his opponents side. Startled, the warrior applicant was forced back as cknail kept him off bnce with a series of heavy blows that he struggled to block. cknail used this time to think. What did he want to do here? The simplest thing to do would be to cut this conniving hobgoblin down. It would be easy, and no one would care, but was it the right move? cknail had to admit that this hobgoblins behavior made him curious. He stood out from the crowd, and technically cknail had never said applicants couldnt poison their weapons during the warrior challenge. He was honestly surprised that no one had tried it before.


    Pivoting to the side, the dark-haired hobgoblin managed to dodge a blow from cknail and earn himself a second of respite. He used that moment to quickly sh at cknails outstretched arm. The attack was fast but light, and wouldnt have done more than scratch cknail, but he dodged it anyway. Even a tiny cut would spread the poison on the de.


    After stepping back and raising his guard, cknail gave his opponent a smug grin. This caused the well-dressed hobgoblin to lose his own grin and begin to look nervous. He paled slightly and nced sideways to avoid his chieftains knowing gaze. He was obviously afraid that his scheme had been discovered.


    Youre going to have to do better than this, cknail said. The applicant just grunted sourly in response.


    Holding back his true strength, cknail chuckled andunched a new series of controlled attacks. His opponent managed to block or dodge all the strikes and even counter with a few quick cuts of his own, but cknail taunted his opponent by easily avoiding each of them at the veryst moment. This quickly led the well-dressed hobgoblin to grow even more nervous and fearful looking. Hed begin to suspect that cknail was ying with him.


    Grumbling something, the hobgoblin dodged a slow sh and stepped closer to cknail. Then, he raised a upturned wrist to his mouth and exhaled strongly at cknails face. Almost invisible in the dark, a cloud of dust flew through the air between them and right at cknails eyes. Flinching in surprise, cknail barely managed to jump back out of the way of the dust. However, even though he wasnt hit directly, his eyes begin to sting. Growling, cknail begin blinking rapidly and using his de to fan the air to ward off the lingering dust. What was this crap? It was burning his eyes and making it very hard to see.


    cknails lowered guard and blindness almost cost him dearly. Right as he blinked, his opponent surged forward and shed at his exposed arm. The coward didnt even try to go for a proper blow. He focused on applying his dastardly poison.


    However, cknail sensed himing, and now he was angry. Growling, he forced his burning eyes open and tapped into the power in his core. Time seemed to slow as his body was filled with unnatural power and speed. Almost effortlessly, he batted his opponents weapon aside with brutal ease. As the loud ng of metal hitting metal rang out, cknail then let his opponents own charge carry him forward. Off-bnce from cknails strike, the well-dressed hobgoblins stance was wide open. For a moment there was a horrified look on the hobgoblins face as momentum pulled him forward, and then cknails boot came up and smashed into his groin.


    Suddenly, there was silence from the watching horde of hobgoblins as cknails opponent rose a foot up into air and let out a tormented squeak. In the sudden quiet, that pathetic noise reached every nearby ear, and more than a few hobgoblins winced. Eyes crossed, cknails opponent then fell to the ground with a thud and curled up into a ball after squeaking pitifully again.


    cknail kicked the shuddering hobgoblins poisoned sword away and looked down at him. Ive decided to let you live. Rejoice or else.


    The hobgoblin just groaned, but cknail decided that was good enough. This hobgoblin was a treacherous snake, but he also reminded cknail of Elyias. Just a smarter and more ambitious, which was natural since he was a hobgoblin. Thus, teasing him was just too much fun, and killing him would be a waste. Besides, cknail knew he couldnt trust any hobgoblins, except maybe Gob. Having one obvious backstabber around wouldnt make much of a difference. It would just help motivate cknail to stay on guard and help him figure out who was plotting against him. This hobgoblin would naturally draw other disloyal minions to him, exposing them. All cknail had to do was watch him carefully.


    You also pass the warrior ceremony, so see Gob about getting your tattoo, after youve thanked me, cknail exined.


    Thank you, boss, the hobgoblin mumbled painfully as he climbed to his feet. He looked unsteady and more than a little nauseous, but hed live. cknail was fairly sure you didnt need both balls anyway, so no real harm done.


    Do you have name? cknail asked. It would be awkward to have him followed if he didnt. ck hair wasnt that rare.


    The well-dressed  but now very dirty and ruffled looking  hobgoblin shook his head. No, boss.


    cknail smiled as be begin thinking. He enjoyed naming things, and he was great at it! This stupid hobgoblin had no idea how lucky he was to receive a name from his awesome chieftain. You shall now be called Crow.


    The newly named hobgoblin was still in too much pain to do more than grunt ungratefully in reply and throw his boss a poorly disguised re, so cknail sighed. His genius was going unappreciated. Hed chosen the name Crow because of the hobgoblins ck hair and horns. The fancy way he dressed and took care of his appearance also reminded cknail of the stuck-up birds. Lastly, cknail knew crows to bepletely untrustworthy birds that would murder everyone if they could. They were like horses that way.


    With thest bout was finished, cknail announced the end of the ceremony and dismissed the gathered hobs and goblins. At hismand, there was onest cheer from the mob before they begun to wander off. Satisfaction filled cknail as he watched them go. The ceremony had fulfilled its purposes. Now cknail had a few more warriors and the entire tribe had seen his new might and cunning. Hobgoblins were natural schemers, but now even the most ambitious of them would tread carefully around their chieftain. cknail grinned proudly. Those that did try to move against him would probably try to gather allies such as Crow, which would y right into cknails hands. He was so smart. Handsome too. No other hobgoblin stood a chance against him, and when Werrick was dead, he could say the same thing about humans.


    All the nearby hobs and goblins scattered out of cknails way as he walked over to Gob. They spoke for a few minutes and cknail ordered Crow watched. Gob wanted to kill the treacherous hobgoblin, but cknail talked him out of it. It was getting boring around here. There had been almost no attempts on cknails life over the past while, which meant the would-be-assassins were getting smarter and sneakier. Hopefully, Crow would lure some of them out. After his talk with Gob was over, a tired-out cknail yawned and went to bed.


    The next morning, a cold wind was blowing down from the North when cknail pushed aside the tanned hide that covered his caves entrance and stepped outside. He shivered as he studied the distant northern mountains and their snowy peaks. The trees at the edge of the forest were now covered in red and brown leaves that were beginning toe loose and drift down to the ground. Winter was almost upon him. cknail considered the scene for a few moments, and then he turned around and went back inside. A momentter, he reemerged wearing a fur cloak that had been made from the hide of a wolf hed in. Its thick fur kept the cold at bay and allowed cknail to build up some body heat as he started walking around outside.


    Many of the other hobgoblins and goblins outside were also wearing heavier clothing than normal. Usually, most goblins still went around in nothing more than a loincloth, but most of the ones in sight now had on various types of shirts. Some were rough-looking and had obviously been stitched together by someone in the tribe, but others were plundered human items that had been cut down to size. On a goblin, a human shirt was a loose robe that hung down below their knees. That only made them warmer though.


    The cold filled cknail with new urgency. It was a chill reminder that his ns would alle to nothing if he didnt prepare for theing turn of the seasons properly. Thus, he quickly walked over to the nearest cooking fire and grabbed some food from the hobgoblins there. Then, he gathered up a small escort of guards and headed for Shelter.


    It was an easy journey now that the road between the human vige and Ironbreak wasplete. There were no obstacles in the way and the surface of the road had been raised in most ces to keep it t and dry, although it was now covered in more than a few fallen leaves. The forest had also been pushed back at least fifteen feet from the road, so it was easier to move without having to worry about being ambushed by predators. Moving too quickly in the Green was normally a great way to run head first into a disgruntled bear or a hungry mimic.


    Soon, cknail left the forest behind and the road led him out into the fields around Shelter. He trudged past the scattered remains of the harvest as he approached the viges gate. When he got there, he yelled to get someones attention and he was swiftly allowed inside. Many of the vigers still didnt like the idea of letting hobgoblins inside their home, but most of them were smart enough to realize they couldnt keep his tribe out and they benefitted from staying on his good side.


    However, instead of wandering around just to prove he could, cknail and his guards waited on the other side of the gate for Tannin to show up, which didnt take very long. The bearded vige elder gave cknail a polite nod as he walked over. He hade alone, although the gate guard was still watching from a distance.


    Wee, cknail. Its good to see you back on your feet. Id heard you gotten yourself knocked around and was worried for a while that you wouldnt make it. Things around these parts would have gotten even more chaotic without you, and thats thest thing we need. These are already disturbingly turbulent times, Tannin said. He seemed unsurprised by cknails physical changes.


    Hello, mister Tannin. Im fine, better than ever really, cknail said as he smiled and flexed his muscles. I just came to check in on things and see how everything was going here. Leaves are falling, and the season is changing.


    Aye, the first frost wont be long now, Tannin agreed. But were as ready as can be hoped. Even with all those new faces youve been dumping on us, we should have enough food tost the winter.


    Good, I was worried about all the human refugees that my minions have been sending north. I havent had time to personally deal with them, so I was expecting to find them all wandering around in circles in the middle of the forest. Nothing ever gets done right unless I take charge, cknail whined.


    Tannin grinned. I cant say that they havent been causing their fair share of problems, but all the empty homes are full of people again, and thats a nice feeling. I never thought Id see the day. Before you showed up, Shelter had been shrinking for a long time.


    Are you going to need more food? I can probably spare some hunters or bring some food up from the south if youre short. cknail didnt want to worry about helping the humans feed themselves in the middle of winter. It was better to deal with it now.


    Every little bit helps, but I think well be fine. Thanks to your goblins, we managed to nt more crops and reap a bigger harvest than usual, and the little critters mostly scavenge up their own meals. On top of that, theyre also keeping other pests away. That was how we lost most of our harvest before, rats. The vermin got in everything over the winter, and what they didnt eat they despoiled with their shit. Some of them were so big they turned the tables on our cats.


    cknail nodded. Rats are nasty beasts. Goblins are always getting into fights or starting wars with them, but were superior so we almost always win.


    Wars? Tannin asked with a smirk.


    Yes, rats dont fight fair. They try to mob goblins using their huge numbers, so goblins have to build up a swarm of their own. It gets quite bloody.


    Well, the goblins certainly are enthusiastic about keeping the rats away, even if I havent seen signs of anything like a battle. Tanninughed. Some of the critters are even building snares to trap any rats that get too close to the supplies. Its rather amusing to watch them build the contraptions. Most of them dont work, but theyre always trying new designs. Weve had to crack down on trophy-taking though. Having piles of rat skulls everywhere isnt clean or appealing.


    cknail talked to Tannin for a few more minutes and then went off to find Geralhd and the others. The former bandits stayed in Shelter most the time. No one had anything all that important or interesting to say though, so cknail soon found himself headed back to the gate. On the way he passed by vigers going about their business. On top of the usual chores, many of the homes were being repaired to make room for new arrivals. cknail got more than a few nces, but both the refugees and original inhabitants of Shelter were used to hobgoblins by now, even if they still werentfortable around them. That didnt bother cknail. Even he thought gettingfortable around hobgoblins was a stupid idea.


    Over the next few days, the temperature stayed chilly and the north wind blew regrly. After a week, cknail decided that he couldnt put the next phase of his ns off any longer, even if it meant slowing down all the work going on at Ironbreak. It was time to spread the tribe out so that it would be easier to feed them over the winter. cknail sent a runner to find Gob and called a meeting of all his lieutenants. Khita wasnt invited.


    There were already three major goblin settlements under cknails control. There was Ironbreak, the settlement on the way to Herstcrest, and the forward base to the south. cknail had been building up all three so that they could shelter as many goblins and hobgoblin as possible.


    Were going to move a lot of goblins out of Ironbreak and to the other bases, cknail exined to Gob and Ferrar. We also need to build a bunch of hunting lodges where hobgoblins can live. We dont have much time, but we can use the branch huts that ferals build. They can be put up quickly to make warm and safe shelters.


    Gob threw cknail a salute. Right away, boss!


    Why are we doing this? Imp asked as he frowned in confusion. Since magic wasnt involved, he was little out of his element.


    Food, Ferrar replied with a snort.


    cknail nodded. We will need to hunt more when the snowes and all the nts die, but there are too many of us here to find enough food that way. We need to spread out. We can ntrger fields next year, but that wont help us now.


    Will they be alright off by themselves, boss? The Green is very dangerous, Ferrar remarked.


    Youre just spoiled, cknail huffed in reply. Ferals live through a lot worse. These minions will have shelter, weapons, knowledge, and supplies. Hunting is easy with bows and snares. Theyll be fine.


    Very true, great one! Gob added in support.


    Since he was the boss, and everyone had to do what he said, cknail had his lieutenants begin organizing everything for theing winter. Gob handled the troops, and Ferrar made sure every group had the proper training and craftsman to build and maintain a lodge. Imp didnt have much to do. All his mages were going to stay in Ironbreak since there was no point in spreading them out, but cknail made him take part in the meeting anyway. You never knew when youd want something exploded.

 On Winter’s Wings 8

    On Winter¡¯s Wings 8


    When the meeting with his lieutenants was over, and cknail had finished dumping all the work on them, he wandered off to bother thezy workers finishing off his house. ring and yelling at them kept him busy and amused for the rest of the day. Unfortunately, it didnt seem to make them work faster. What a bunch ofzy runts.


    The next morning, arge mob of hobgoblins and goblins headed out of Ironbreak. Obeying themands that cknail had given out yesterday, they followed the road into the Green on their way to the forward base. To make sure that enough goblins went, every hobgoblin was ordered to bring three goblins with him. This caused some grumbling, but it worked. cknail watched them go, and then he went to make sure none of his minions were cking off. There was another group of getting ready to head for Herstcrest.


    When he was sure Gob had everything under control, cknail took some guards and went to Shelter. He needed Geralhd to write a letter for him, since he didnt know how to read or write.


    cknail had spent some time mentally debating whether or not he should go to Herstcrest personally, but in the end, hed decided against it. Although going to Herstcrest would be extremely difficult once it began snowing, there was little point in going there now. cknail didnt have any use for Ilisiti or his men over the winter, and theyd parted on uncertain terms. It would be better to send him a letter and then meet up with him after the snows had receded.


    The letter cknail got from Geralhd was short and simple. First, it informed Ilisti of cknails recovery, without going into too much detail. Second, it reassured Ilisti that their alliance still stood and that he could expect some support from cknail, such as a delivery of supplies from the south and meat over the winter. That should keep the vympir satisfied and on cknails side for a while. Ilisti was a valuable but unpredictable ally. cknail didnt like depending on allies he couldnt easily assassinate.


    The group of hobgoblins and goblins headed to the settlement near Herstcrest wasnt thatrge because there were only a few crude lodges there. The settlement had started out as their of a small feral goblin tribe, but after conquering it, cknail had ordered it expanded and a wooden wall built around it. The goblins there had grown some tasty herbal tea nts that hed wanted to keep cultivating. Now, it would serve as a good ce to garrison troops over the winter. It was amazing how smart cknail was.


    As the expedition was leaving, cknail handed his letter to a hobgoblin messenger and ordered him to deliver it directly to Ilsiti.


    The departure of so many hobgoblins and goblins had a noticeable effect on the atmosphere of Ironbreak. Without so many chittering goblins running around, it grew quieter and it became easier to move through the streets. Still, cknail wasnt quite satisfied. He wanted to build at least a few hunting lodges along the edge of his territory, if only as an experiment. Thus, he had Ferrar and Gob assemble a few parties and send them out. Three hobgoblins and three times that many goblins was the size they decided on. That would provide them with enough skills and manpower to survive, while still allowing them all to live in onerge lodge. However, if the lodge fell apart but they were still alive, they could always return to Ironbreak. The building of the hunting lodges would probably disce some feral goblins, but that wasnt cknails problem.


    After thest party was sent out, Ironbreak was still fairly crowded. Over thest few months, countless goblins had been flooding out of the Green and into the safety of the settlement, until it was stuffed full of the green pests. Many of them had then grown fat on cknails food and transformed into hobgoblins. There were still too many goblins in Ironbreak to fit into proper buildings, but now you could at least walk around without tripping over them.


    Over the next week and a bit, cknail went about organizing Ironbreak. This mostly involved bringing in as much food as possible and getting it stored properly. There was also the matter of clothes and shelter. It was toote to build more buildings, but hunters were still bringing in more hides that could be used to make warm clothing and boots. Thankfully, they had more than enough firewood, so that was one thing they didnt need to worry about. Not that cknail was doing any of the physical work. He was the leader and that was what minions were for. He liked to watch though.


    cknail was supervising such a group of hide tanners that were working at the smoking pits when a messenger from Gob showed up with a scout report. cknail was too busy to personally listen to every scouting report, so he had Gob handle it and send him all the important stuff. At first the report was nothing but the standard information on supplies and merchant movements down south that cknail hade to expect, but then the messenger mentioned some sightings the hunters had made out in the Green.


    Boggarts, Gob called them that. They look like huge ck bugs, the messenger told cknail. Three different hunters saw them moving out in the forest. One hob even came back with a ck w as a trophy. He said he shot and killed it, but it didnt smell like good eating.


    cknail had been lounging on a spare timber, but upon hearing the mention of boggarts, he grimaced and sat up. Boggarts were bad news. Hed run into them out in the Green before and fought several of them. They were also new. ording to the humans, theyd only recently begun appearing. The creatures popped up from underground and dragged whatever food they could find back down there, and they were tough enough to consider both humans and hobgoblins food sources.


    Make sure Gob keeps me informed of all boggart sightings. I want to know if anyrge groups are sighted, cknail told the scout before dismissing him.


    Boggarts unnerved cknail. His instincts screamed that they were a threat, even if he wasnt sure why. There was just something off about the person-sized bug-things. They were too mysterious and unlike anything else hed encountered. He also suspected that they were much smarter than they appeared. cknail didnt like having smart enemies that he didnt understand. Humans were easy to predict. At heart, they were prey.


    The next day, another hobgoblin messenger found cknail while he was eating lunch and informed him that the work on his mansion wasplete. Smiling, cknail immediately hurried over to check on his new home. Hed been waiting months for it to be finished, and he couldnt wait to tour it and move in. Only then could he brag about it properly to everyone like a real leader.


    It didnt take long for cknail to reach his destination. Hed seen the mansion while it was under construction of course, but now that it wasplete, he still stopped and took a moment to study it from afar. Over to one side, he saw two of the human workmen whod been supervising the construction. They noticed him as well and began walking over to greet him.


    The building before cknail was made up from two adjunct wings. Both of them were rectangr, but one was longer and almost twice as tall as the other. Both wings were built atop a short stone and mortar foundation and held up triangr roofs. The roofs were covered in rows of tiles that had been made by Ferrar and his craftsman in their furnaces. The front of the building around the entrance was made from more stone and mortar, but the other walls cknail could see were smoother. From a previous visit, he knew those walls were made from stacked logs that had been thered in lime to seal them. It was an impressive sight. Therge wing had two floors! There were even some shuttered windows, which were very rare in Ironbreak.


    What do you think? As requested, its bigger and better than anything in Shelter, one of the workmen said as he reached cknails side. There was a big smile on his face.


    It looks alright. Lets go inside, cknail replied coolly as he began walking toward the door. It was a real wooden door, and not a hanging hide. Amazing!


    The workman nodded. Sure thing. Well give you the tour.


    The main wing had two floors and a cer. The ground floor was one big hall, while the upstairs was divided into six rooms and a long hall. The second wing was the location of the kitchen and other side rooms. Below that was the basement, which was mostly for storage.


    Im going to need a lot more furniture, cknail remarked after his tour was over. He only had a bed, a shelf, and a chest in his cave.


    The workman chuckled. Id start with a table. I know a carpenter in Shelter who could make one for you, and he can work over the winter.


    cknail gave the man a polite nod, and then begin walking around the main hall of his mansion again. This was a home fit for a real leader. There was a firece on the far wall, and he was really looking forward to spending most the winterying in front of it. Hed get a mug of tea and a fur nket. It would be incredibly rxing. Best of all, there would be very little for him to do all winter. The snow meant that everyone would be hunkering down and most work and travel would be next to impossible. Yes, he could just sit in front of the fire and nap for day after day. His minions would bring him food, so he wouldnt even need to get up!


    Unfortunately, there was still a lot of work to be done before cknail could do enjoy some well-deserved rest. Life was difficult for great leaders. The bare physical structure of his mansion might beplete, but it was almost empty. Now he needed to get the ce stocked, furnished, and organized. He was also going to need guards and servants he could trust not to stab him in his sleep or poison his food. That was going to be a problem. Was there a lock on his bedroom door? If not, he needed to get one. How did you make a lock? He should ask Imp. They were magic, right?


    cknail spent the next two weeks trying to get his new mansion up and running smoothly. He bought some spare furniture from Shelter  yellow rocks sure were convenient - and he had Ferrars craftsmen build him some more. None of them were great carpenters, but they could make functional but crude chairs and tables. cknail had a fair number of pretty items stashed away in his cave that he could use as decorations but not enough to fill his entire new mansion. Thus, he assembled a squad of hobgoblin warriors and sent them out to gather useable tribute from his other minions. Later, he learned from Geralhd that this was called taxation, and human rulers did it all the time. It was a shame that cknail couldnt cover his walls with animal hides. With wintering, every warm animal skin would be needed for nkets and clothes. cknail should have just taken them anyway, since it was his minions own fault for being sozy and not making more, but he decided against it since he didnt want goblin corpses everywhere. cknails minions sure were spoiled.


    Gathering up trustworthy servants for his mansion and organizing them properly turned out to be more difficult than finding furntiure. Badly chosen furniture didnt normally kill you in your sleep. cknails mansion needed cleaners, cooks, and guards to keep all the filthy goblins out of his stuff. Goblins didnt understand boundaries and theyd pee on everything given half a chance. Only cknail was allowed to pee on his property.


    The mansion was quiterge and got dusty rather quickly, so cknail knew he needed cleaners. Goblins could do the work, but they came with a lot of downsides. Not only were they thieves and liars, but they were scatter-brained and dirty. Thus, cknail figured that cleaning his home was probably a job better suited to a hobgoblin, and maybe a goblin or two that reported directly that hobgoblin. After thinking the problem over, cknail decided to simply have an audition for the job. Cleaning wasnt that hard. Finding guards didnt take long. Lacking a better idea, cknail simply asked Gob to find him some trustworthy guards. He was getting far too reliant on Gobtely.


    One of the first people to apply for the housekeeping position was Crow. His obvious intentions were amusing, but cknail quickly sent him packing and then ordered the guards to deny him entry into the mansion if he came back. After that, cknail eventually settled on a quiet female hobgoblin that seemed to like to keep to herself. She wanted the job because it allowed her to avoid other people without having to go off into the Green. At first, cknail thought she was secretly attracted to his magnificent body, but she avoided him like she avoided everyone else. He almost never saw her, and when he did, she quickly bowed and scurried away. Whatever, she kept the ce clean and the kitchen stocked.


    With some basic furniture in ce and the staff finally hired, cknail invited all his most important minions and allies over for a dinner feast. All and all, there were about three dozen of them, but he was able to sit them around several long tables in his new dining hall. One of the tables was actually a doorid out on some logs, but you could barely tell since it had a sheet over it.


    Wee, to my new home. I bet youre all super impressed! cknail announced when everyone was seated.


    Across the table, Gerahld smiled politely. Its quite an striking piece of work. I cant believe you got such a solid looking structurepleted so quickly.


    Its a lot bigger than your house, cknail pointed out with a smirk.


    Most the former bandits  including Ralphi - mumbled quick replies and then begin eating the food set before them, but Tannin chuckled so cknail turned to face him.


    Its also bigger than your house, even though youre the boss of Shelter.


    Very true, Tannin replied as he grinned in amusement. Im ratherfortable in my old ce, but yours is certainlyrger. It suits you.


    cknail frowned thoughtfully. Maybe, it could be bigger though.


    Several of the human guests full outughed now, but cknail ignored them. How big of a home would be too big? It was hard to even imagine.


    Youve certainly got some nice big bedrooms upstairs, Khita remarked. Which one of them is mine?


    cknail immediately turned to re at her. You dont get one. Theyre all mine.


    Dont be silly. Why do you need more than one bedroom? I used to have a bed in your cave, and I visit Ironbreak all the time.


    You can have the cave. Its a gift from me, cknail told her.


    They argued for a few minutes, and cknail tried to stubbornly resist her demands, but she was just too whiny. He eventually conceded simply to shut her up. Maybe he could install a lock on her door so that it locked from the outside


    When they were done arguing, Ralphi spoke up and raised a cup. Your foods great and all, but whats with the water? Seriously, wheres your real drink?


    cknail looked at him like he was an idiot. Water is a drink.


    Ralphi red back. Alcohol. Wheres your alcohol?


    We dont have any. Its poison, and not the useful kind.


    Ralphi gave him an incredulous stare. Youve got swarms of fidgety hobs and gobs running around doing and building every crazy thing imaginable, but you dont have a single brewery or still?


    None.


    Huh, I could help some of your hobs build one. Id be interested to see what kind of fire water theye up with.


    Try it and I will hang your body from the gates as a warning to others, cknail told him. Hed had a very bad experience with alcohol in the past, and he didnt see the point. It tasted terrible and gave you a pounding headache. Also, his minions were dumb enough without imitating humans and getting drunk.


    You cant have a real feast without alcohol. Its the grease on the axel wheel of society!


    Have some tea. I have a new type and its very nice, cknail told him.


    Ralphi snorted. Tea is for the elderly and the sick, and Im neither. Besides, Ive seen what happens to people who eat or drink anything strange they get from you, so thats not going to happen.


    Theck of alcohol caused a few more humans to moan or mutter, but everyone still had a good time at the feast. Many of themplimented cknail on his great new home, which was nice to hear. After feeding them all such great food, cknail felt he deserved at least a little praise back in return.


    Eventually, after all the attendees had eaten their fill and conversed, it became time for the guests to depart. All the humans left together since the way back to Shelter wasnt safe even with the roadpleted.


    However, before leaving, Tannin turned and gave cknail a friendly grin. Thank you for the food and hospitality. Its good to see that you and your tribe can be good neighbors. I think your people and mine can look forward to many years of friendship and mutually beneficial trading.


    Yes, I think so too. Be sure to make a lot of cheese for me, cknail replied as he sent the man on his way.

 On Winters Wings 9

    On Winter''s Wings 9


    After the feast with the humans from Shelter was over, cknail invited Herah up to see his new bed. They then had a lot of sex on it before falling asleep. It was a great way to end an enjoyable day, because cknail had finally managed to show off his new home. It was bigger than everyone elses, except for Ilisitis mansion in Herstcrest, which didnt count, for reasons.


    The next morning, cknail got up early and shoved Herah aside. He had to go do leadership stuff. There were a bunch of stupid minions that needed him to make decisions for them. Thus, after a hearty breakfast at his new table, cknail spent the morning talking to scouts and work crew leaders that were looking for direction. Most of the answers he gave them were simply encouragement to do what they already knew was the right response, but a lot of hobgoblins felt the need to ask cknail for permission and advice every time the slightest problem came up. cknail supposed it was because he was so smart and such a great leader. Most the news he got was about supplies that had been bought down south from passing merchants being brought north. The preparations for winter continued.


    Not all the reports cknail got were pointless though. Scouts brought him word of several more boggart sightings. The creatures seemed to be growing more active, which was a rather unwee development. cknail had been hoping the creatures would disappear back underground, but that didnt seem to be happening. Even if they didnt start attacking his minions, they werepeting with them for prey and food, and that could lead to serious problems over the winter. cknail was going to have to do something about them eventually, but he had no idea what.


    A messenger also brought him interesting news from one of the parties that had been sent out to form a hunting lodge. Apparently, after making their way through the Green and reaching the edge of cknails territory theyd stumbled upon a small goblin vige. The settlement was made up of three huts that had been built next to a river. It had been led by a single hobgoblin, so it had been easy for cknails minions to rush in and conquer the ce. After the brutal killing of the feral hobgoblin, all the goblins had immediately submitted to their new rulers. The settlement wasnt much and needed a lot of work, but it was far better than any lodge the party could have built before the first snowfall. It not only came with a bunch of goblins that could be put to work, but it also had a plentiful food source. The local goblins frequently fished the river using sharpened branches to spear the fish. Just off the top of his head, cknail could think of several ways to improve their catch.


    Avorlus also finally returned from his visit to Herstcrest. The mage had gone there to study the crystals cknail had found in one of the mines behind the city. Herstcrest was muchrger than Shelter and probably would have been a morefortable ce for Avorlus to spend the winter, except that Hercrest was ruled by Ilisti. The vympir lord was very vocal about his distrust of mages, so staying in Herstcrest hadnt really been an option for the mage. Out west, in the istednds where Ilisti and the other vympirs came from, there didnt seem to be many mages. Putting two and two together, cknail thought this was because the vympirs had killed them all, which was understandable. Even ignoring all the random explosions mages caused, it was obvious why vympirs would have a problem with mages. Vympirs ruled through fear and power, but even though they were very dangerous and incredibly tough, a big enough magical st could kill anything. It was a good thing cknail didnt have worry about that. He was in charge because he was better than everyone at pretty much everything.


    Upon his arrival, Avorlus immediately came to see cknail at his mansion. The old mage looked rougher than thest cknail had seen him. His clothes were simpler and dirtier, and his beard wasnt so nicely trimmed, but his stiff posture still radiated pride. cknail had first met Avorlus in Daggerpoint. The white-haired old man was an Elixir specialist. He was also a rogue mage, since he wasnt affiliated with any of the mage guilds. The mage guilds didnt like that, so they sent some hunters to arrest Avorlus. Luckily, cknail had been nearby. Hed taken some of his minions and snuck past the guild guards. Then, hed grabbed Avorlus unconscious body and carried him off into the Green where no one would ever be able to find him, and he could spend his days making useful Elixirs for cknails tribe. cknail was such a great guy.


    Ah, how very interesting, Avorlus remarked as walked right up next to cknail and begin studying his new body. The mage hadnt even said hello first.


    Youre a little close. Its rude. cknail frowned. The old mage didnt smell great, and was spreading the smell through the house. Maybe he needed to set a pail by the door for humans to use for washing. He could also get a tub for his guards to throw people in.


    Avorlus blinked in surprise and stepped back. He then gave cknail an apologetic grin. Oh, sorry. I let my curiosity get the best of me. Ive studied Vessels and mutants all my life and rarely do I get the chance to see such a unique specimen. Usually when a subject is exposed to a properly stabilized Elixir it will either die or be a Vessel. Only if the Elixir wasnt made correctly will the subject fully mutate, and then there is usually obvious mental degeneration. From what Ive heard and seen, it doesnt seem like you degenerated at all. Maybe the opposite. Hm


    Hey, whats that supposed to mean? cknail asked suspiciously. Had he just been insulted?


    Oh, nothing much. Its simply curious that you managed to be a mutant after being a Vessel for so long. Of course, there have always been rumors of warriors drinking too much Elixir and going berserk until they be mutants, but Ive never seen any actual evidence of it before now. I thought rumors were all they were.


    Whats mental degeneration? cknail asked. Hed never heard that term before, but it sounded important.


    Ah, degeneration means to weaken. In the case of mutants, its a reference to how they seem to lose the ability to think rationally and be more governed by their passions. In particr, traditional mutants appear to be obsessed with feeding and fighting.


    cknail gave Avorlus a thoughtful look. Have you been turning people into mutants on purpose?


    Er, not on purpose exactly the mage replied defensively.


    cknail rolled his eyes. I dont care about your human city rules. I was just wondering if you actually know what youre talking about when you mentioned mutants getting dumber, or if you were just talking about rumors again.


    Im very sure. I was quite thorough in my tests, Avorlus admitted matter-of-factly.


    Hmm, how safe are your experiments. I was thinking of trying to turn some of my hobgoblin minions into Vessels. Using hobgoblin Vessels was a risky strategy, but cknail knew he needed every advantage he could get now, and it sounded like turning hobgoblins into mutants would be an even worse idea.


    The idea of doing some experiments on hobgoblins seemed to intrigue Avorlus, and he quickly agreed to cknails proposition. That done, he asked cknail toe by Imps workshopter so that he could draw some blood. cknail had heard that giving mages your blood was a bad idea, but Avorlus said it was necessary for the tests, so he reluctantly agreed. Also, it wasnt like Avorlus was going anywhere.


    When Avorlus left, cknail found himself alone in his mansion, except for the silent guards outside and his almost invisible housekeeper. It seemed like there were no more messengers to listen to or reports to go over. Huh. It was chilly outside, so cknail decided against going out there. Instead, it was probably time to take a well-deserved break and enjoy all the luxuries of his new home. Repeatedly telling people things they already knew was tiring work.


    The main halls firece was already lit. cknail could easily get some hot tea from the kitchen and a nket from wherever they were kept. Then, he could just sit down next to the fire and rx. Yes, that was how he should spend most of the winter. Sofy and warm. When it snowed, there wouldnt be much for him to do. Travel and most work would be almost impossible. Every day, he could sleep in ande down to curl up next to the fire


    There was as sudden crash as the door of the mansion flew open. A cold wind blew into the hall and washed over cknail  sending a shiver down his spine - as a hobgoblin stepped inside and looked around before focusing on cknail. There was a panicked expression on his face.


    Were under attack, boss. Theyve invaded the mines! the hobgoblin screeched.


    The words washed over cknail and he immediately felt a painful headache re to life inside his skull. Just why? He had a really bad feeling about this already. Implications and possible interpretations of the hobgoblins words shed through cknails mind, each of them more annoying than thest. There was a reason his head hurt. It was a premonition of a dream lost.


    Close the door before I skin you alive and bury you in an ant hill, cknail hissed. Surprised, the hobgoblin jumped to obey and then knelt on the ground in supplication.


    Now, exin what is happening, cknail told him. He wished he could just throw the messenger out and ignore this intrusion. Maybe Gob could handle it. Maybe it was an invasion of rats, or tasty bunnies!


    The messenger looked up from where he was kneeling on the floor. Yes, boss. A swarm of vile creatures have attacked and chased all the miners out of the caves. They arent like anything the miners have seen before.


    cknail sighed. So much for the bunny theory. Are they boggarts?


    No, great one. They are too small. Just goblin-sized, but they attack in huge swarms. The filthy invaders sneak through the shadows and attack the mages with rocks from afar before rushing in.


    Hmm. cknail was d it wasnt boggarts at least. If boggarts were invading the mines, then cknail would have found himself in heaps of trouble. Not only were boggarts dangerous opponents but they were mysterious and sometimes moved inrge numbers. Having them attacking would be a real threat, and quite possibly a permanent one, since there was no way topletely secure the mines.


    Alright, does Gob know? cknail asked as he began stomping over to the door. It would be best to deal with this quickly.


    The messenger climbed to his feet. Yes, boss. He is the one who sent me. Gob is at the entrance to the mine and is gathering warriors and mages while he waits for yourmand.


    Good. Good. Ill go right there to lead the counter attack. Join me, cknail said as he walked outside.


    The hobgoblin messenger quickly followed after him, so cknail broke out into a run as he headed for the main mine entrance. This was an invasion after all. He shouldnt waste time, not even for a snack, even if it sounded like no one was fighting right now.


    Gob was right where he was supposed to be, outside the mine with two dozen armed hobgoblin warriors and Imp. The hobgoblin mage was holding his crystal-tipped battle staff. At cknails arrival, they all gave him a quick bow, although they all did it slightly differently and at different times, so they ended up almost falling on top of each other. cknail sighed as thest one regained his bnce. Did he really have to find someone to train them to bow properly? Ugh, minions


    Whats going on? cknail asked Gob.


    Even though hed just bowed, Gob threw cknail a sloppy salute. All the miners and guards have been forced out of the mine. Many of them were injured by rocks, ws, and bites, but none of them seem to have been killed. The enemy targeted all the mages with lights, forcing them to retreat.


    All the mages were just goblins? cknail asked Imp.


    Imp nodded. Yes, I only have two hobgoblin mages, and I dont send them to work in the mines. For carrying light stones, little goblin mages work fine.


    What about Scamp?


    Imp scowled for a second. Hes not a proper mage. Too little brains.


    Fair enough, cknail admitted. What had Scamp been up to recently anyway? cknail hadnt seen him around.


    Whats the n, greatest one. Bless us with your wisdom, Gob asked.


    cknail smiled. Were going to go in there and fight the invaders!


    Er, surely there is more to your wisdom


    cknail shrugged. All these invaders did was chase away some miners. I think proper hobgoblin warriors can handle them and protect our mages from some small critters in the dark.


    Gob and several other hobgoblins didnt seem too reassured by their chiefs words, but cknail wasnt worried. He had a good idea of what they were up against. He confidently began leading the way into the dark mine, and all his minions reluctantly followed after him. Thankfully, Imps staff red to life almost immediately, throwing back the shadows and illuminating the cave. There wasnt any sign of the invaders yet.


    With his de out and ready, cknail continued on deeper into the cave until his party reached the caverns first major intersection. That was when he finally noticed movement in the shadows at the edge of the light, so he came to a stop and peered into the darkness ahead.


    Give me more light, he ordered Imp without turning to look at him.


    The hobgoblin mage instantly obeyed, and the light from his staff brightened. The darkness was pushed back, giving cknail a quick glimpse of pale grey limbs and small skinny bodies, before the creatures hissed in rm and retreated.


    cknail nodded at the sight and then began walking again. Alright, lets keep going.


    The creatures that had invaded the mine stayed in the dark and fled ahead of Balcknails force, but they didnt disappear. Instead, the sound of their skittering steps and hisses grew louder as more of them gathered out of sight. Some of the hobgoblins began to grow nervous as the hidden creatures grew in number. All of cknails party had their weapons out now and were on guard.


    Suddenly, the light from Imps staff revealed arge patch of mushrooms growing on a pile of dirt, and the invaders hisses grew louder and angrier. cknail signaled for everyone to stop as the gathered creatures began to stalk closer to the light. Almost immediately, a barrage of rocks shot of the darkness and flew at the hobgoblins. cknails troops were ready for this though. They easily batted the small projectiles aside with their weapons or used their armor to block them. Although many of the rocks were aimed at Imp, none of them got close to him.


    This staunch defense angered the creatures even more. Their hissing and growls grew furious, and then they charged. Dozens of the creatures burst of the darkness and ran straight for cknail and his minions.


    cknail justughed as he readied his weapon. In the light, the true face of the invaders was finally in to see. The creatures were small humanoids with pale grey skin and useless little tails. They all hadpletely bald heads and unusuallyrge eyes that were mostly closed to protect them from the light. Also, despite the obvious differences, they were without a doubt close rtives to goblins. They general body shape was simr, even if they were skinnier and had stubby tails.


    As the first of the attackers leapt at cknail, he sent it flying away with a swift kick. He then knocked another out of the air by clubbing it with his sword hilt. The attacking creatures outnumbered the hobgoblins over three to one, and they tried to use their numbers to swarm them, but the hobgoblins stayed in formation and easily held their ground. The attackers were cut down or smashed aside with ease. Several jumped on hobgoblins and tried to w or bite them, but they almost all failed to prate the hobgoblins armor. The attackers made a lot of noise, but they were exactly as effective as youd expect unarmed feral goblins to be against armed and armored hobgoblins. They were ruthlessly crushed in seconds, and quickly lost their nerve. Soon, their angry growls turned to terrified howls and the survivors turned and fled.


    See, that wasnt so hard, cknail remarked.


    Gob nodded solemnly. Truly, I was wrong to doubt you for even a moment, wisest of all beings. I am unworthy to serve you.


    cknail sighed and gave Gob a look. Thats alright. Most of my minions are even unworthier than you.


    With the invaders scattered and broken, cknail and his minions were able to press on and scout the mines without facing any more resistance. asionally, they heard movement and familiar hisses echo out of the shadows, but the creatures didnt attack again. Usually they encountered the invaders near patches of mushrooms, which made cknail suspect they were what the goblin-like creatures were after. That didnt answer all of cknails questions though.


    cknail frowned as he trudged through the twisting caverns with his retinue behind him. While he had defeated the enemy with ease, he didnt think hed solved his problem. The invaders hadnt fled from his mines. It would still be unsafe to send goblin miners back to work, but the invaders werent likely to attack cknails party again. With that in mind, cknail led his minions over to long passage full of mushroom patches that would have attracted the creatures.


    As expected, as soon as cknails group approached the first pile of fungus, there was a movement in the darkness. cknail grinned as he led his troops further in. Hed chosen this particr passage for a reason. It was a dead end, which meant he could trap the invaders in it.


    There were hisses as the creatures fled before cknails group, until they reached end of the tunnel. Then, the light from Imps staff hit the far wall, shredding thest shreds of darkness the invaders were using to hide. Once again, they were revealed. About two dozen of the goblin-like creatures cowered against the far wall of the cave. They squinted and shielded their eyes from the light.


    Instead of ordering his troops forward to ughter them, cknail took a moment to study his pathetic foe. Something was bothering him. Why were these creatures here? They were obviously cowards, so why did they attack his miners? They are terrified of hobgoblins, cknail could sense it clearly, and yet theyd attacked him. Hmm, since they were so goblin-like, cknail thought he should be able to understand how they thought.


    As cknail studied the creatures cowering before him, one of them reacted to hisck of aggression. Shaking from fear, it slowly approached him and knelt on the ground. The wretched and sickly colored thing looked skinny and malnourished.


    Trog! the critter whined as it cowered.


    When cknail failed to react with violence, several other of the creatures moved to join their fellow in surrender and begin whining as well. Feeling annoyed, cknail just scowled down at them. The surrender of these Trogs meant nothing. Without a doubt, theyd scamper off the first chance they got, and cknail would never find them in the endless tunnels of the Dark Paths. Still, something was bothering him about this whole situation.


    Turning to look back the way hede, cknails scowl deepened. Several unwee suspicions had begun to form in his mind. The first ce hed encountered the Trogs had been the huge mushroom forest. Why had they left it ande here, where there was danger and slimmer pickings?


    Unbidden, a swirl of half remembered thoughts rose in cknails mind. Had he dreamtst night? He thought he remembered a gnashing of teeth and a skittering of ck ws in the dark. Endless hunger and countless mouths


    cknail grimaced and turned to Gob. Go gather up as many troops and mages as you can find. I want a full war party ready as soon as possible.

 On Winters Wings 10

    On Winter''s Wings 10


    After sending Gob and Imp outside to get reinforcements, cknail and several minions waited for them to return at the first intersection in the cave. An unknown number of trogs warily watched from the shadows beyond the light. One of Imps assistants had remained behind with a crystal. cknail ignored the shifting darkness and the hissing of the unseen trogs. They werent important now. He had much more dangerous things to worry about. In fact, the presence of the Trogs was reassuring because it meant nothing more dangerous was around.


    Thankfully, cknail didnt have to wait in the dripping darkness all that long. The rm had already been raised earlier up above, so Gob was quickly able to round up more troops and return. As Gob and Imps group came into sight, cknail counted thirty more hobgoblins and three more mages holding glowing light stones. Half the hobgoblins had the warrior mark, but all of them were armed with swords or spears. cknail almost felt like waiting for more, but decided it would slow them down too much. Imps magic should be enough.


    Once he reached his chiefs side, Gob immediately stopped and saluted. cknail gave him an approving nod. Good job.


    cknail then turned to Imp. Did you bring your best battle magics? Every enemy we blow up is one less enemy trying to kill us.


    Wise words, boss. But, you said not to get anything that would kill everyone in the cave or bury us under rock, Imp replied with a frown.


    Fine, did you bring the best magic you can actually use without killing us all?


    Imp nodded. Probably. We tested it once and nothing too terrible happened.


    Just be ready to attack at mymand, cknail replied with a sigh. He hated magic.


    What enemy do you think is down here? Gob asked as he studied the surrounding darkness with a frown. There wasnt much to see.


    Like a great leader, Im always expecting enemies everywhere, cknail replied vaguely before ordering his troops to form up. There was a chance that his suspicions were wrong, and he didnt want to look silly in front of the minions. There was also no point in spooking them by revealing the truth. Hobgoblins werent known for their bravery.


    With Imp at his side to illuminate the way, cknail led his troops deeper into the caves and toward the underground river. The heavy thud of footsteps echoed behind him as his troops marched in a three-hob wide column.


    When they reached the huge cavern that contained the rushing river, cknail led them down the rocky incline beyond the entrance and into the cave proper. Crabs and other beasts shuffled as they hid among the stone pirs that dotted the cave, but they didnt attack the passing hobgoblins. cknail used his power to terrify any beast that got too close, but he barely had to do anything. Such arge formation of tightly packed hobgoblins wasnt exactly a tempting target. There was easier prey for even the hungriest of creatures. Thus, cknails troops reached the other side of the cavern and the passages thaty there unmolested.


    cknail called for a stop as he eyed the tunnel that led to the mushroom forest suspiciously. Were going to move quickly now. Turn up all the lights and keep in formation. Expect attacks from the shadows. Dont even think about hanging back though. Anyone who falls behind will be gutted and left for the crabs.


    After sharing some nervous nces, the hobgoblins climbed up the rocks at the entrance to the tunnel and then swiftly fell back into formation. Immediately, cknail urged them forward and they begin moving at a brisk pace.


    Were not going to try and be sneaky? Gob asked as he marched beside cknail.


    No, most of the minions arent used to the darkness down here. Theyd just trip and hurt themselves in the dark, or blunder right into an enemy. Light and speed will serve us better.


    At cknailsmand, the mages had brightened their mana stones, so the long cave passage was flooded with light. This helped the hobgoblins move over the irregr stone floor and navigate through the rocks at a quick jog, but cknail knew it would also give away their approach. Most likely, the enemy already knew they wereing. All they could do was give them as little time as possible to react, and hope that the light would blind their sentries.


    As they neared their goal, cknail saw the darkness up ahead swirl as somethingrge slipped away. The movement was confirmation of his suspicions, but he wasnt pleased. He wished hed been wrong. A few secondster, a cluster of shadows in the passage ahead of the hobgoblins shivered as something within them moved and then scuttled out into the light. At first, the twisted shapes looked like they were actually made from living shadow, but cknails eyes quickly made sense of them. Their shiny ck carapaces and many-legged bodies marked them as boggarts. There were five of them, and their empty ck eyes shone as they scuttled forward to block the hobgoblins advance.


    Keep moving and kill them! cknail yelled as he charged forward and drew his sword. Its de shone brightly with reflected light from Imps staff as it slid free from its sheath.


    Without apparent fear of being so outnumbered, the boggarts held their position. They reared up and raised their front limbs menacingly as they bnced on their four back limbs. The creatures were smaller than hobgoblins, but they were covered in thick ck carapace. Their ws and mandibles looked as sharp as daggers and they were almost as long.


    As he lunged at the center boggart, cknail sent a pulse of terror at the creatures. He then shed at a gap in the carapace on his targets neck. The boggarts stiffened in shock as the unexpected magic washed over them, which allowed cknail to strike true. His de sank deep into unprotected flesh. Blood spurted from the wound and the boggarts spasmed and fell, so cknail wrenched his weapon free and turned to face his next opponent.


    The first rank of cknails minions joined the fight, just as he struck at his second target. Unfortunately, this time his de was deflected by a thickly armored forearm. The power of the blow did knock the boggart off bnce though, so cknail kicked his opponent in the side, and then tried to stab it in the face. It was time to stomp some creepy bugs.


    The five boggarts had formed a tight line that blocked the way forward, but with one of them already down, the charging hobgoblins easily managed to draw the creatures out and nk each boggart. The creatures were tough and difficult to hurt, but as theyd been trained, the hobgoblins didnt fight fair. They worked together to surround and harass the boggarts until one of them could get in a killing blow. Feeling proud of his minions skill, cknail helped. He quickly finished off his second opponent and then moved to help his minions kill a third. By that time, the other boggarts were down as well. The fight ended upsting only around a minute.


    That wasnt so hard, a hobgoblin warrior remarked as he kicked a dead boggart.


    Keep moving! These boggarts were just buying time for the others, cknail remarked as he began running again.


    The others? Gob asked.


    Yep, its the only thing that makes sense.


    cknails minions quickly hurried after their leader, although their formation was much rougher looking now. Still, it only took them a few moments to reach the entrance to their destination. Sword still out, cknail slowed for a moment to let Imp catch up, and then they stepped into the next cave together.


    Instantly, the light from the glowing crystal that was atop Imps staff shone out into the cavern before the hobgoblins. It was a huge chamber that you could fit a vige in, and it was full of all different sorts and colors of mushrooms. The tall fungus formed something very like a forest, and it blocked cknails vision in several directions, but he could see enough. The mushroom forest had changed noticeably since hisst visit. A dozen stumps jutted up from the dark soil that covered the ground where entire mushrooms had been removed, and there were dark shapes running around everywhere. Boggarts.


    Behind cknail, the hobgoblin troops were hesitating and getting stuck in the entrance, so he took a moment to order his troops forward and back into formation. That done, he turned back to study the enemy. There were a lot of them running around in every direction, although it was hard to count them as they darted around through the darkness. There were dozens anyway. For now, they looked unorganized, but that wouldntst. Every time hed met them, boggarts had shown themselves to be very social and smarter than normal beasts. He needed to pick off as many of them as possible before they could rally.


    Follow me and kill everything that gets in our way! cknail roared before marching toward the forest.


    The nearby boggarts scattered before the hobgoblins, but cknail kept his troops together. He was tempted to let them rampage, but he wanted them all nearby until he knew exactly what he was facing. It would be too easy to lose control of the situation if his minions ran into the trees, and boggarts unnerved him. The shiny bug things looked and acted far too freaky for his liking. Why couldnt they be as ugly-cute as humans?


    Theyre all running away, boss, Imp remarked as he held up his light.


    Suddenly, a loud chorus of buzz-like screams echoed out of the fungal forest, and all the boggarts shifted to begin scrambling in that direction. They didnt seem so unorganized now. cknail growled and peered into the shifting mess of fungus and shadows thaty in the direction that the sounds hade from. As he watched, a mass of about thirty boggarts appeared. It was headed right for the hobgoblins and it was growing as more boggarts rushed out of the trees.


    Thats a lot of enemies, great one, Gob observed.


    cknail grunted sourly. Thats why I brought the mages. To blow the bugs up. Im not nning on fighting fair. Hed had bad luck when it came to fair fights.


    Just say the word, boss, Imp interjected eagerly. They wont know what hit them. No one will.


    Before cknail could reply to that, he saw something that drew his immediate attention. There were several tall shapes in the middle of the boggart swarm. Most of the boggarts were scrambling across the ground on all six of their limbs, but these new figures looked to be as tall as hobgoblins, if not taller. That couldnt be good. cknails eyes narrowed. What were they?


    Ready your magic. Ill give themand to strike when theyre too close to run away. I want to squash these bugs, cknail told Imp as he studied this new threat.


    The boggarts were closer now, so there were less mushrooms blocking cknails vision. The tall figures were definitely boggarts, butrger and with a slightly different shape. They had longer front limbs and a heavier lower body, as if they were built to move on only their four back legs. A cold shiver went down cknails spine and the hair on the back of his neck rose as he noticed other differences. These new boggarts looked to be bigger than hobgoblins, and they were carrying spears. Tools. cknails most paranoid fantasies had been proven true. Boggarts were more than just mere beasts. They were a true threat to his entire tribe. One he couldnt ignore. They had to die.


    Fire now! Aim at the tall ones, cknail told Imp.


    The enemy mob was only about twenty seconds away now, and there were about forty normal boggarts and tenrge ones in it. That was way more than cknail wanted to face head on. A hobgoblin warrior could take one of the smaller boggarts, but probably not two, or one of therger version. Hmm, it depended on how good they were with those spears.


    Imp barked a quickmand and all his assistants hurled mana crystals at the center of the boggart mob. There was no need for slings since they were so close. The crystals fell and vanished into the crowd of shiny ck bodies, before exploding with a series of loud booms. Blue light shed though the shadowy forest. As per cknails instructions, the explosions werent all thatrge, but they were more than powerful enough to throw boggarts in every direction. The enemy mob stumbled to a sudden halt as it was pummeled by blue magical power. Clods of dark earth and clumps of fungus were also thrown into the air. Most the boggarts werent hit directly, but over a dozen of them went down, including three of the big ones. Many of the others were stunned and their swarm now had huge holes in it.


    Good work, but those just looked like force sts, but bluer. Do they do something special? cknail asked. He loved magic. It was so useful.


    Imp nodded. Yes, theyre from a batch of wed force crystals that are weaker than usual, create blue light, and taste like fish. That makes them useful for down here though."


    What? Fish? cknail felt like he should ask about that, but he had a charge to lead. It would be stupid to give the enemy time to recover. They werent finished yet.


    Charge! Dont leave a single bug alive! cknail yelled as he ran at the stunned enemy. They were only about twenty feet away.


    The other hobgoblin warriors roared and raced after their chieftain. cknail lunged forward and cut off a boggarts arm. It squealed in pain as the front rank of hobgoblins mmed into the boggarts beside him. cknail began shing at another nearby enemy, but even though it was still partly stunned, it was hard to kill. The stubborn boggart fell back and shielded itself with its arms, which presented cknail with an almost solid wall of ck armor. After a few more fustrated swings, cknail managed to find a gap and kill the boggart, but most his minions were having the same problem. All around him, hobgoblins were shing at defending boggarts. That didntst long. The boggarts quickly recovered and pushed back. The surviving tall warriors pushed the smaller ones away began stabbing at the hobgoblins with their long spears. The reach of their spears allowed them to strike from behind the front rank of smaller boggarts. It was an effective maneuver, and several hobgoblins fell back with bleeding wounds.


    The hobgoblins advance ground to a halt before the wall of ck armor, and the fighting grew bloody and brutal. The smaller boggarts were more than just tough. If a hobgoblin dropped his guard, they would leap forward and try to rip their opponents green flesh apart with their razor-sharp ws and mandibles. Several hobgoblins went down this way. cknail had to stab the exposed armpit of small boggart that had pulled down one of his minions and then kick it off him.


    Growling in fury, cknail begin hacking and shing at the nearby enemies. This battle was not going as nned, and he needed to do something, because his minions were so useless. Eyeing a nearby boggart spearman, cknail drew power up from his core and kicked the small boggart that was in his way aside. He then unleashed a st of fear at all the nearby enemies and lunged at the spearman.


    The tall boggart was a little shorter than cknails new body, but it was obviously heavier. Not only was it covered in thick carapace, but it had an abdomen and four legs. The boggart warrior reacted slowly thanks to cknails magic, but it still saw himing and tried to knock him aside with a swing of its spear. Magic flowing through his body, cknail ducked under the blow and then shed at the creatures exposed elbow joint. After a moment of resistance, his powerful strike cut through the vulnerable flesh and severed the entire limb. The boggart screeched like a teapot full of bees as it was left holding its spear with only one arm.


    However, cknails attack had left him vulnerable and ahead of his minions. A small boggart rushed him from one side as another enemy warrior stabbed at his chest. To avoid the attacks, cknail was forced to jump back to safety. He hit another hobgoblin as hended back among his troops, but he just shoved the unfortunate minion aside. Stupid minions should have seen himing and gotten out of the way.


    Damaged by Imps magic barrage and the hobgoblin charge, the outnumbered boggart mob nheless kept up their furious attack. There were still six of the tall warriors fighting, and theyshed out at the hobgoblins with startling speed and power. The swarm of smaller workers around them made it impossible for the hobgoblins to try and nk them. cknail had to throw himself back into the melee when the hobgoblin to his left was tackled to the ground by two smaller boggarts.


    We need to take out the big bugs! cknail yelled as he rescued his fallen ally and then kicked him back away from the fight.


    This fight was still far too close for cknails liking. The hobgoblins charge had been stopped, and more boggart workers were still creeping out of the forest of mushrooms to join the enemys ranks. Also, they were in a veryrge cave, but the fighting was beginning to cause the air to grow thin and dusty. cknail wheezed as he drew a deep breath. It was bing hard to breathe. If they didnt do something soon, the boggarts would gain the advantage, break the hobgoblins'' formation, and then rip them apart. Stupid giant ck bugs!

 On Winters Wings 11

    On Winter''s Wings 11


    cknail coughed as he studied the swarm of boggarts thaty before him. The battle in the giant mushroom cave had been going on for a while now. Although the boggarts had been knocked off-bnce by the hobgoblins initial charge, they were beginning to push back, and hobgoblins were starting to fall. The smaller boggarts were tough to deal with, but the real problem was the taller warriors with spears.


    I got it, boss! Magic can probably help, Imp suddenly yelled from somewhere behind cknail. The "probably" was worrisome.


    Regardless, the hobgoblin mage pushed up beside cknail and leveled his staff at the nearest enemy warrior. Immediately, all the nearby hobgoblins ducked out of his way, including cknail. Unlike the other magic users, Imp had a mechanical staff that hed taken from a human mage. The device allowed him to channel magic from mana stones and shoot it, instead of using the mana stones themselves as explosives. This gave him a little more control and finesse.


    The light crystal at the tip of Imps staff had been reced by a blue one. It glowed brightly for a moment, and then a ripplingnce of blue energy shot out. The magic flew past cknail and mmed into the boggarts. All the smaller specimens in the front line were sted away, and then thence hit one of the warriors. The creature took the blow to its stomach. Instantly, it crumbled from the impact and then was knocked violently sideways. The blue beam then shifted as Imp swung his staff around, and the deadly magic hit two more warriors before fading away. Both the tall boggarts were thrown off their feet and into the rank of workers behind them.


    For a brief moment, cknail just watched the spectacle. Then, he grimaced in distaste. His mouth felt icky. The blue light did taste like fish. Weird.


    Suppressing the urge to start spitting and coughing, cknail raised his de and charged into the hole in the enemy ranks. We end this now. Minions, forward!


    As he ran, cknail used his power to stifle the fear of his minions, so theyd follow him with more enthusiasm and less pesky self-preservation. That was a terrible trait for minions to have. At the same time, cknail also unleashed another wave of magical terror at the enemy. The boggarts had probably adapted to the magical fear already, but it couldnt hurt.


    Stunned by magical force and fear, the boggarts before cknail stumbled as the hole in their ranks widened. This exposed the tall spearmen at the back, so cknail lunged forward into the gap. He sensed weakness and his predatory instincts drove him to strike at his stunned foe and take full advantage. He was time to sink in fangs into his prey and taste victory.


    Magic power rushed through cknails body as he charged. He spun as he ran, and his deshed out at two nearby smaller boggarts and cut into them. Both the workers fell as the steel weapon found gaps in their armor and tore into vital organs, but cknail was already moving past them. Ahead of him, was an enemy spearman. It saw cknails approach and reacted quickly. Its long spear swung around and then its de shot straight toward cknails head as the warrior struck. cknail saw the spears tip zoom toward his face, before he sidestepped the blow. Keeping his forward momentum, cknail then lunged forward and shed at the warriors exposed side. His de sliced through the air with intense speed, but the warrior jerked backwards, and cknails sword bounced off its carapace with a loud crack.


    The force of the impact vibrated up cknails arm, slowing his response, and giving the boggart warrior time to react. It retracted its spear and then shed at cknail. The hobgoblin chieftain grunted as he blocked the attack. This boggart was tougher than it looked, but he was even stronger. The only problem was getting through the creatures annoying armor.


    However, cknail wasnt fighting alone. As he pushed back against the boggart, two of his minions surged forward to join the fray. They took full advantage of the boggarts preupation with their chief, and nked the creature from both sides. The boggart could only flinch as they both attacked. One sliced at its head with a sword while the other stabbed at its chest with spear. As cknail watched, the sword ended up ncing off the boggarts armor, but the spear found a gap and sank deep into flesh.


    cknail didnt waste any time. There was a battle going on. He shoved the weakened boggarts spar aside and shed the base of the creatures neck. His de found soft flesh and tore through it. Dark blood erupted from the wound and the boggart fell backward.


    Grinning from the satisfaction of a good kill, cknail turned and cut down another boggart worker that tried to jump him, and then moved on to challenge the next warrior. All around him, hobgoblins were engaged in a brutal and bloody melee. The hobgoblins had the momentum again, but the boggarts were very hard to kill. It usually took more than one hobgoblin to finish off even the workers. To cknails left, a hobgoblin was shing at a defensive worker, when another worker emerged from nowhere and tackled him to the ground. The hobgoblins screamed as the boggarts ws raked his face, but then another hobgoblin arrived and impaled the attacking boggart with a spear and drove it off his ally.


    cknail ignored his minions and focused on his chosen target. The boggart was stabbing at another hobgoblin that was hurriedly defending himself, but it stopped and turned toward cknail as it saw himing. The twobatants eyed each other for a moment as they drew closer, and then cknail whipped his de around and hacked at the creatures elbow. Stumbling back, the boggart avoided the blow. cknail kept moving. He stepped up beside the creatures outstretched weapon and punched it in the face. There was a loud crack as the boggart reeled backward and tripped over a worker that had been standing behind him. Grabbing the creatures weapon with one hand, cknail pulled himself closer and stabbed the creature in the chest. The boggarts ck eyes didnt convey much emotion, but to his own satisfaction, cknail felt surprise and fear flood through his opponent as it died.


    As cknail looked around to find a new worthy opponent, the boggarts'' behavior suddenly changed. All at the exact same moment, every boggart disengaged from the fighting and turned to flee. cknail froze in surprise as all the nearby opponents scuttled away at full speed. Still moving as one, they fled into the mushroom forest.


    Form up and follow me. Were going to make sure theyre gone, cknail yelled as he began jogging carefully after the boggarts.


    Those minions that were still on their feet reluctantly obeyed. Imp took the opportunity to throw another blue st of force at the enemies backs. It mmed into them, throwing several aside and knocking over a huge mushroom, but the affected boggarts simply picked themselves up and raced to rejoin their fellows.


    A minute or soter, cknail led the way out of the other side of the mushroom forest. Ahead of him, the creatures were running toward the shadows at the edge of the cavern. It was difficult to see the edge of the cave because there were no glowing mushrooms there and cknails light-bearing mages were behind him. However, just as the fleeing boggarts were disappearing into the shadows, a light suddenly burst into being among them. cknail blinked in surprise as he brought a hand up to shield his eyes. Was that a mana stone? Yes, peering at the center of the light, cknail saw that one of the workers was holding up a short staff made from the same dark material as the warriors spears. At the top of the staff was a glowing mana stone.


    Well, that wasnt good. cknail grimaced as he watched the boggarts disappear into a passage at the far side of the cavern.


    That looked like magic, Imp remarked curiously as he walked up beside his boss.


    I noticed that, cknail replied in a sarcastic tone.


    Gob walked over and grinned happily. We won, boss! Not that anyone doubted we would. Your brilliant strategy led us to great victory. What now, greatest of warlords?


    cknail just grunted sourly as he eyed the tunnel the boggarts had disappeared into. He was unhappy about thisplication. Im going to need a lot more hobgoblins, a lot more magic, and a lot more everything.


    The implications of recent events seemed to have escaped Gob, but they hadnt escaped cknail. If the boggarts were capable of gatheringrge mobs, crafting weapons, and using magic, then cknail and his tribe were in serious danger. There was a deadly swarm of unknowable might lying in wait beneath their very feet. One that could match almost every trick they had. That was bad. The only real advantage the hobgoblins had was cknails own incredible genius and leadership, but even cknail wasntpletely perfect. He knew hed fallen into a pattern recently and be far too dependent on magical barrages. If he wanted to survive, cknail was going to have toe up with somepletely new tricks for his minions to use inbat. Even when properly trained, hobgoblin infantry and bandit riffraff just werent tough enough to go head-to-head with all of cknails enemies. Stupid useless minions.


    Frowning thoughtfully, cknail wandered over to examine the corpses of the defeated boggarts. Piles of them littered the ground. The dark soil around them had been torn up by both feet and explosions, and there was also the asional dead hobgoblin. cknails forces had suffered a dozen fatalities and twice that many injuries. It had been far from a bloodless victory. So annoying. cknail was supposed to be building his forces, not losing them.


    At least the corpses of the boggart warriors were interesting. The creatures looked dangerous even in death. They sure were big, and their ws looked like they could do nasty things to goblin flesh. Also, their solid ck eyes had no pupils and reflected the light, making it seem like they were still watching their surroundings. It was creepy, but cknail pretended not to care. He walked over and kicked one of the dead warriors. That made him look tough, and the corpse''sck of reaction also reassured him that it was really dead.


    After poking the dead warrior in front of him and stabbing it in the chest once just to be sure, cknails gaze fell upon the creatures fallen spear. Excited at the unexpected opportunity for some looting, he grinned as he picked it up to examine. What he saw surprised him. The spear was made from a single smooth piece. Had it been carved from a branch or something? cknail moved closer to Imps light and ran his finger along the spears de. No, it was way too sharp and strong to be wood, and it was the wrong color. Too ck Wait, was the spear made from a carved piece of boggart carapace or bone? Was that possible? cknail frowned as he sniffed the weapon. It smelled like boggart, which wasnt a surprise. Also, the smell and feel of the weapon reminded him of something else. Right. It was very simr to one of his bows. The one hed gotten as a gift from Saeter in Daggerpoint. It hade from some hooded man at a stall What was the connection there? cknail had no idea, so he made a mental note to show the weapon to Geralhdter. Hopefully, he wouldnt forget.


    Now that the battle was over, and the mushroom forest was secure, cknail had Imp copse the tunnel the boggarts had fled into with a st of his staff. That probably wouldnt keep them out for long, but it would give cknail some time to prepare. It was obvious he was going to have to tighten the security of the tunnels beneath Ironbreak even more. Unless cknail was very mistaken, a full-on invasion of boggarts with magical support could start at any time, especially now that hed smacked the dumb bugs around. They were probably mad. Hmmm, cknail wished he hadnt sent so many of his troops away now. Recalling them now would be slow and dangerous.


    Some exploration of the mushroom cave revealed arge pool of water in the center of the chamber. As cknail studied it, wispy streams of white vapor rose up from the water and floated away. The water was warm to the touch, although not quite hot. Obviously, the heat and moisture from this pool was what allowed all the mushrooms to grow sorge. cknail also found another tunnel leading off into unknown depths. However, it looked too narrow for therger boggarts to slip through, so he had some rocks piled up to block it and then moved on.


    By the time cknail and his minions returned to the entrance to the mushroom cave, the trogs had reappeared. The pale critters cautiously emerged from the shadows and approached cknail. After a moment of hesitation, they began groveling and bowing again. cknail snorted dismissively at their antics. The creatures annoyed him, but they might be useful. They obviously nned on staying in cknails new mushroom forest, which meant they were his minions now. The trogs were weak and stupid, but most of cknails minions were. At least the trogs knew the darks paths and might make good scouts if they could be trained properly. cknail was in desperate need of more information about boggarts, so hed take what he could get. Also, cknail wondered how simr to goblins trogs actually were.


    Gob was standing right next to cknail and waiting for orders, so cknail gave him some. Make sure the mine workers begin taming these trogs. I want to be able to talk to them, and they should be put to work. They wont be getting free meals anymore.


    As youmand, lord! Gob replied with a salute.


    With that done, cknail returned to the mines and then made his way back up to the surface. The bright sunlight hurt his eyes as he emerged from the cave, but it still felt great to be back outside. The caves had been very dark and dreary, and the sun felt nice on his face, even if it was brisk outside.


    Unfortunately, cknail didnt have time to take a nap in the sun. There were things that needed to be done and his minions were all too ipetent to do them without him. More troops had to be rounded up and sent down into the mine. Naturally, this meant hunting down a lot of goblins and hobgoblins that would prefer to avoid notice from their superiors and also anything like work. Tracking them down and getting them organized into squads was difficult. Stupidzy minions.


    There was also the issue of getting the mine back up and running. cknail handled this from thefort of his mansions dining hall. As he sat on a chair next to the zing firece, messengers and lieutenants came and went with news. Ferrar was in charge of the mine, but all the new underground activity had created a shortage of mages and light stones, so Imp had to be brought in as well. Soon, all the leadership gave cknail a headache, but he had to put up with it. There was more that needed done, and no one else to do it.


    Theres also the matter of bad air. With more workers going underground this will be a bigger problem, even if goblins can usually smell and avoid it, Ferrar exined.


    cknail sighed. Having lived in a sewer years ago, he knew quite a bit about bad air and the problems associated with it. What do you suggest?


    Ferrar shrugged. Lots of mushrooms help clean the air, but they also attract nasty critters that bite and sting workers. They also only grow in damp warm ces. A lot of the best mining spots arent like that.


    Give me a magical answer, cknail said as he turned to face Imp.


    Imp smiled. We could try blowing up


    cknail instantly interrupted him. No, something else.


    Well, if the problem is bad air, I might have something else. When I was working with Avorlus a while ago, we idently made some green air crystals.


    How do those work? cknail asked curiously.


    They seem to suck up air as they grow, and then they release it all in one big explosion.


    cknail gave Imp a stern look.


    however, with Ferrars help, I might be able to make a device to release small gusts of good air that goblins can breathe.


    Alright, that sounds about right. If bad air bes a problem, then you should do that. Do you have any more magics that might help the tribe mine or fight underground. This is very important.


    Um, Ill study my collection again when I get back to my workshop.


    Show everything to Ferrar. He might see something you dont, cknail told the mage. Imp and Ferrar were dumb inplimentary ways.


    With that problem solved, cknail had his minions focus on the defense of Ironbreak. None of them seemed to consider the boggarts as mush of a threat as cknail did, but cknail was the leader, so he didnt have to put up with their stupid opinions. However, after some discussion, it quickly became apparent that none of them had any good ideas that cknail hadnt already thought of. Recalling some troops was the best they coulde up with. cknail needed some smarter minions. It was a shame that all the humans were at Shelter. At least they usually thought differently than hobgoblins.


    Eventually, cknail had Gob summon several messengers so that he could order them out to recall the troops he wanted. However, when the messenger arrived there was a problem.


    That might be difficult for us to do, greatest of leaders, the lead messenger exined reluctantly.


    Why? cknail asked suspiciously.


    Its snowing, mightiest one.


    Oh. Instantly, cknail jumped up and hurried over to his mansions door and threw it open. A cold gust of wind washed over him as he peered outside, and it contained more than a few flutters of white. cknail groaned as he confronted the wall of white before him. Outside, heaps of fluffy snow were falling from the sky. The air was thick with it, and it was already building up on roofs and the ground. There was no way his troops were going to be able to make it back now. Stupid weather.

 Interlude: The Quiet Life

    Interlude: The Quiet Life


    A deep sigh escaped from Khita as she looked around and saw nothing but empty dirt streets and in buildings. There wasnt a single other person in sight. All the residents of Shelter were inside and staying out of the cold as much as possible. Khita couldnt me them for that. The air was chill enough that her breath turned a wispy white when she exhaled. It was a good thing that she had on a nice warm fur jacket. Shed hate to be stuck inside all the time, because the weather was only going to get colder over the next while.


    Hearing a shrill voice form somewhere behind her, Khita quickly hurried down a side street. These days, the old woman she was staying with usually ignored her as long as she stayed out of trouble  or at least didnt get caught  but sometimes the old bag got a stick up her ass, and Khita found the best thing to do then was flee.


    Maybe she shouldnt havee back to Shelter. It was so boring here! Khita sighed again. The problem was that Ironbreak wasnt much better, and she had good reasons for leaving. It would snow soon, and she didnt want to get stuck there. cknail and the other hobgoblins were all busy preparing for winter, and not doing anything fun. cknail had recently also gotten into the habit of sending her to help the work crews whenever she approached him. Ugh, she was far too amazing of a person to waste her time that way. She was a Vessel and she had her own group of bandits!


    The redhead stuck out her tongue and made a face. What a stupid jerk!


    There was also the situation with Herah. cknail and her were being gross. Honestly, that girl had problems. Instead of hanging out with Khita, all she wanted to do was stalk cknail and act like a floozy. Herah really needed to learn some self-control and how to y hard to get. At this rate, cknail would probably grow sick of her before too long.


    Ha, that would serve her right! Khita chuckled as she kicked a rock down the street.


    How dare Herah ignore her bestest friend! Who was it whod stood by her and taught her everything she knew about seduction? It had been her, Khita! Herah should be acting way more grateful then she was. It wasnt Khitas fault that cknail had taken so long to fall for her. He was just dumb when it came to women. Hed always been that way, although it had gotten worse after his first visit to Daggerpoint, for reasons Khita couldnt figure out. Whatever. Knowing cknail, it was something pointless and dumb. The point was that Khita wasnt going to hang around Ironbreak and beg for attention or do grunt work.


    Ugh, everything is so boring. I cant stand it! Khita groaned as she looked around. The streets of Shelter were still empty of people. I miss the big city.


    The truly terrible thing to contemte was that everything was going to get way more boring before it got any more exciting. With winter on its way, everyone would be staying inside and hunkering down against the cold. Theyd harvested their food and had everything they needed stored safely away. It wouldnt be until spring that the people of Shelter would emerge from their homes and actually start doing anything interesting. The only exception would be a few huntsmen and wood gatherers. Well, there would also be a few vige get-togethers. Khita shuddered in horror. Some hot food and socializing werent worth putting up with all the vigers horrible folksiness. Khita had been to a few of Shelters celebrations. Never again. Everyone there would be gossiping like merchants wives and there would be regr outbreaks of folk singing. Their only redeeming quality was the alcohol, but Khita could just steal that if she wanted it. Getting drunk alone was no fun though.


    Maybe she should go see what some of her old bandit buddies were doing. Hmm, most of them were either working for cknail down south or had integrated into Shelter and be no better than the vigers. Stupid sellouts. All it had taken was some simpering vige widows pretending to find them handsome, and theyd all settled down the first chance theyd gotten. Geralhd was still around and hadnt changed or gotten married, but hed never been all that fun to begin with. Vorscha had been the exciting one of the pair. Khita missed the warrior woman and her fighting lessons.


    If Khita did visit Geralhd, hed probably invite her in for tea and try to discuss philosophy with her. Bleh. Maybe she should have stayed at the forward base down south for the winter. At least then shed have gotten to rob a few fat merchants before the snow came. It was going to be pretty rough and crowded there though, and Khita liked her simple creatureforts.


    A cold wind blew by, so Khita pulled her jacket tighter and snuggled into its warmth. As she was doing that, she noticed movement next to a barrel at the entrance to a nearby alley. Looking up, she saw a pair of goblins peek out and stare at her. Grinning, Khita gave the cute critters a friendly wave. One of them waved back, while the other one just pouted adorably. A momentter, both the goblins cautiously stepped out into the street and looked around. Both of them were wearing scruffy cloaks made from rags, and one of them was wearing a rat skull on his head. They were also both carrying short sharpened sticks that looked like spears in their small hands.


    The goblins were undoubtedly hunting rats. Theyd been doing that a lottely. Sometimes their little scuffles got really loud. Sigh. It was truly sad, but Khita was almost tempted to join them. At least they were doing something exciting, if you were a tiny stupid goblin.


    Maybe I should bother the boys, Khita remarked as she watched the goblins disappear into another alley.


    It might be fun to y with the emotions of some of the younger men in the vige, even if they were all too in and stuffy for her. It would pass the time anyway, even if it wasnt something Khita would normally do, unless they had something she wanted. Fooling around with boys feelings was a little mean, even for her. Stabbing people was more her thing.


    Ugh, Im just so bored. Why cant a hideous mutant take up residence in the vige and start picking off vigers one by one, Khita whined as she started heading back home.


    There was no point just wandering around in the cold. Shed get sick, and that would just make things even worse. Then, shed be stuck in bed and the old woman would be able to nag her nonstop. With heavy steps, Khita dragged herself back to her home. It was approaching lunchtime anyway, and the old woman would probably be warming up some soup. Since her brothers death, Khita had gone hungry too many times to ever pass up free food, so she could put up with some annoying conversation about responsibility and knitting or whatever.


    As the young redhead approached her destination, a few flecks of white drifted past her. Frowning, Khita looked up. The sky was full of snow. As she watched, more and more of it began to fall from the thick grey clouds overhead. It looked like it they were in for a huge weight of snow.


    Whelp, that settles it, Khita remarked sadly as she studied the falling white specks. Now it truly is winter, and Im screwed.


    Even if she wanted to go to Ironbreak, it would be a harsh and difficult journey now, and shed be stuck there for who knew how long. Even with a road, getting through the snow would be tough.


    Stupid cknail is probably just going to nap his way through the entire season  without a care in the world - and not give me a single thought. What azy selfish jerk, Khita remarked as she pulled the door to her home open and stepped inside to get some soup.

 Under the White 1

    Under the White 1


    cknail wanted to scream in frustration, but hed been doing a lot of thattely, so his throat was sore. Thus, instead he just red irritably at everyone who dared approach him.


    Over a month had passed since the first snowfall of winter, and cknail had barely had any time to rest and rx. One nap a day wasnt enough for him. He wasnt some useless minion. As the big chief, he should be sleeping almost constantly.


    That first snowfall hadsted several days and left the ground covered in a white nket that came up to cknails knees. That had made it impossible for cknail to recall any of his troops and been aplete hassle in many other ways. Even moving around through Ironbreak had been difficult until cknail had personally gone and dragged his minions out of their warm homes and forced them to work on clearing the streets of snow.


    That had just been the beginning of cknails problems. None of the hunters and gatherers had wanted to go out in the cold, so cknail had been forced to ration the food stores until thezy fools got off their asses and went to find fresh food. Of course, having the hunters out in the snow led to other problems. Thered been an increase in boggart encounters, which had led to several hunters never making it back. cknail had no idea how many goblins were being picked off, but he did know that wild game had been growing scarce, since the hobgoblins and boggarts were both hunting in the same area. Something needed to be done about that.


    There were also sightings of boggarts below ground. After their defeat and rout from the mushroom forest, theyd avoided open conflict, but they still seemed to be creeping around the edges of his territory. They might be scouting for an attack, but cknail really had no idea how boggarts thought or what their ns were. They might just be acting randomly.


    There had been some good developments, but they were the sort of good developments that meant more work for cknail, so they were really mixed at best. Despite the boggarts creeping around, the mines had been reopened and their defenses had been reinforced sessfully. All the passages big enough for boggarts to use were defended or sealed up, and the entire ce was regrly patrolled to make sure no new tunnels had been dug. If the boggarts did invade, theyd have to get past barricades and armed guards with lights that would immediately send for reinforcements. Several hobgoblins were also trying to figure out how to set traps for boggarts, but it was proving tricky. Theyd had yet to get one.


    At least the taming of the trogs had been going well, even if cknail had to get involved in that as well. The pale creatures were actually easier to deal with than goblins. Once they learned a few basicmands, it wasnt hard to convince them to work for their meals. They did share one serious w with goblins though. Once you started feeding them, swarms of them came out of nowhere looking for handouts. Honestly, no one had any idea where they wereing from or how they were getting into the mine undetected, but there were easily several times as many trogs in the mine as there had been when cknail had first gone down there to deal with their invasion.


    Thankfully, they seemed more than happy to eat the mushrooms that grew underground as well as some bugs and worms. Thus, by controlling ess to the mushroom forest, it was easy for Ferrar to get them working in the mine. Ferrar was also trying to train some of them to be scouts, but that was moreplicated. Trogs seemed to be even worse than goblins when it came tonguages.


    There are no signs of any immediate boggart attacks, and the mines are secure, Gob reported.


    He and cknails other lieutenants were in a meeting with their chieftain at his mansion, which was nice and warm thanks to its several fireces. Theyd all been discussing their various projects and duties. As usual, cknail was concerned about their food supplies.


    The boggarts might be scaring away all our game to starve us out.


    Gob didnt look convinced. We have plenty of supplies stored away, and were still catching lots of small critters like squirrels and rabbits. We dont need much big game.


    Boggarts probably eat rabbits. They both live in the ground, and we cant survive on squirrels, cknail pointed out.


    We could eat mushrooms from underground. The trogs seem to like them, Ferrar suggested with a shrug.


    cknail scowled at him. If we get too many trogs they will eat all the mushrooms. Also, the boggarts could overrun the cave forest and the mines if they really wanted to. They have numbers, weapons, and magic. They only reason they havent is because theyre a bunch of dumb bugs.


    So, what do you want us to do? Ferrar asked.


    cknail turned to Imp. We need real mages at the guard posts. To blow up enemy swarms and defend us from boggart magic.


    Blowing things up underground is a bad idea and defending against magic is difficult without a staff and special crystals, the mage replied skeptically.


    Find a way to kill them without blowing everything up then. Ive seen mages shoot death beams.


    Death beams?


    Ya, the magic hits them and then they just fall over dead.


    Imp frowned. That sounds very boring, but I might be able toe up with something.


    cknail gave the mage a re. Do it. No excuses, and if your minions need staffs or something, then get Ferrar to make them for you. Together, you should be able to figure it out.


    Yes, boss, Imp replied as Ferrar nodded in agreement.


    I could get more of the trogs working to build defenses underground. I have more of them than I can use, Ferrar suggested. They will work all day for food and protection from hungry beasts.


    Hmm, I wonder if we can use them to make food. cknail liked making problems into solutions. Solutions were usually less work.


    Gob opened his mouth, but cknail cut him off. Were not going to eat them.


    Could we farm mushrooms underground? Ferrar asked. I think all wed need is a warm cave, water, and dirt.


    Its worth a try, cknail replied. And we have trogs to do the work, and theres no point letting themy around like drunken humans.


    There are some caves that are warm and wet enough. The rock in most of them shows that they flood a lot, but we can do something about that.


    Good. Good. Do that. cknail replied impatiently. Hed already lost interest.


    Is there anything else you want to know, boss? Gob asked.


    Have any of the trogs fallen asleep and not woken up? Theyre a lot like goblins. I want to know if they can be hobs.


    No one has seen anything like that yet, boss.


    The meetingsted for a few more minutes, but then cknail dismissed them. Theyd gone over everything important and talking to his lieutenants was getting annoying. They needed to start doing better. Really, they should be predicting his orders. Herah had rewarded some of her minions for doing that, so obviously cknail needed to start punishing his until they became just as good. Also, it was almost snack time and he didnt want any of them around when he went to get the cheese hed stashed away in his secret cheesepartment. Hed had the human workers build it, and then sworn them to secrecy. If they vited his trust, hed made it very clear that hed kill them and their entire families.


    Two days passed by without too much happening. Just the usual constant supervision of idiots. However, when cknail put on his heavy furs and stomped around outside, he was greeted by the sight of a very different looking Ironbreak. Snow covered the sprawling settlement and smoke rose from dozens of chimneys. There were also a lot less goblins running around. Theyd all found warmer nooks and crannies to shelter from the weather in. Those that didnt have ces in longhouses with fireces had done what feral did during the winter and dug themselves burrows where they could huddle together with other goblins for warmth.


    Although there was snow everywhere, paths had been cut through the deeper parts and stomped down. The settlement was very much still active. Those goblins that had warm clothes still ran about on chores, and hobgoblins were still required to report for duty. The mine and most of Ferrars workshops and smithies were still running at full production. Teams of lumberjacks were also constantly going out to get more wood to feed the many fires. Carts had trouble in the snow, so boars were used to drag simple sleds instead. cknail was even considering taking a sled to Shelter. After being away from his human minions for so long, hede to miss their unique perspective on life. Also, they were much more fun to torment than hobgoblins and the look on their faces when they were scared or confused was just too amusing.


    Wait, what had happened to Elyias? cknail hadnt seen him in forever. He should still be around somewhere The little bastard must have fled somewhere while cknail had been injured, and then hed been too busy to notice. Well, at least hunting Elyias downe spring would be amusing.


    On the third day, while cknail was inspecting some of Ferrars forges  which just happened to be the warmest ce in the settlement  there was a loud cry from outside. Rushing to the door, cknail threw it open and stepped out to listen. The cry soon repeated itself and it was loud enough for the entire settlement to hear. It was a hobgoblin sounding the rm. The mines were under attack.


    Immediately, cknail began screaming for all the nearby warriors to join him as he began running over to the mines. There was no time to waste. A boggart swarm could quickly ughter their way through the tunnels and do severe damage to Ironbreaks underground operations. Thankfully, cknail had properly instructed his minions of the fate of any hobgoblins cowardly enough to try and avoid a general call-to-arms. Only marked craftsmen with other duties were exempt. Thus, hobgoblins with weapons were soon stumbling out of longhouses and moving to join him, as they pulled on their primitive armor.


    This time, cknail managed to beat Gob and the others to the entrance of the mine and the howling hobgoblin standing outside it. Seeing his chieftain arrive, the hobgoblin stopped yelling long enough to tell cknail what had happened. He was a little excited, and thus hard to understand, but it sounded like the boggarts had attacked a guard post on the far side of the mine, near the mushroom forest.


    Imp still hadnt shown up, but there was a hobgoblin mage with a light stone present, so cknail didnt waste any time. Leaving a messenger behind with instructions for Gob, he rallied the gathered hobgoblins and led them down into the tunnels. Two dozen hobgoblins should be enough to at least dy the enemy before they got too far into the mine.


    Moving at a quick jog through the caves - which was as fast as he could and not stumble over something or fall into a hole in the floor  cknail headed straight for the lost guard post. The barricades that protected the underground entrances to the mines were simple tall barriers of piled rock secured by sharpened stakes. Each of them was guarded by three hobgoblins and a goblin mage to provide light. In case of an attack, two of the hobs were supposed to stall the enemy at the barricade while the third ran to get reinforcements.


    As they moved through the twisting tunnels, cknails troops passed groups of frightened goblin miners that were fleeing to the surface and confused packs of trogs that quickly got out of their way. Several of the goblin work parties contained hobgoblin leaders that cknail ordered to join him. Before they got to their destination, a wounded hobgoblin stumbled into sight alongside a terrified looking goblin that was clutching a glowing light stone.


    The ck bugs areing, boss. They killed Nosy, and theyre right behind me! the wounded hobgoblin announced as he stumbled over to cknails side.


    How many? cknail asked.


    Too many for me to count in the dark, and they have some of the big warriors with spears, the guard replied.


    cknail grunted sourly as he came to a stop and peered down the passage ahead. That wasnt very helpful. At least this passage didnt have any branches that led into the mines. If he stopped the enemy here, he could stop the attackpletely. It was too bad Imp wasnt here with a death beam. That would make this a lot easier. He really wanted a death beam.


    However, cknail didnt have long to think about his minions failures. After only a few moments, the first of the boggarts burst into sight. A mob of a dozen ck workers scuttled around the bend in the passage ahead. They slowed when they saw the waiting hobgoblins, but this only gave the other boggarts behind them time to catch up, including several looming warriors. Thus assembled, the boggarts didnt stop. The moving mass of ck carapace hurtled toward the hobgoblins.


    Get ready to stomp some dumb bugs, cknailughed cheerfully. His minions needed some reassuring, so at the same time, he reached for the power in his core and used it to steal some of their fear.


    As his minions readied themselves for battle behind him, and the enemy closed in, cknail drew his weapon from the sheathe across his back. The long sword came free with a quiet hiss. It was a new weapon that cknail had chosen after his battle in the mushroom forest. His old de just hadnt been big enough for hisrger body and had been holding him back. This new weapon was a long two-handed sword that allowed cknail to fully use his new strength and gave him some impressive new reach. It hade from his stash of looted weapons taken form dead humans.


    The mob of boggarts was almost upon them now, so instead of waiting, cknail roared and charged forward to meet them. His sudden attack caught the front rank of workers off-guard, and his magically enhanced speed didnt give them any time to react. Two boggarts were almost instantly knocked aside and mangled by cknails first swing, and a third worker lost a limb. The wounded boggarts were quickly trampled by the row of boggarts behind them, throwing the enemys ranks into chaos. Boggarts stumbled over each other as cknail swung his de around again and unleashed a st of unnatural fear at them.


    The enemy warriors managed to react first. At the same time, two of them raised their spears and stabbed at cknail. The hobgoblin chieftain just grunted and batted both spears aside with a swing of his new weapon. This opened him up to an attack by the shorter boggart workers, but as they leapt forward to tackle cknail, they were intercepted by his minions. Hobgoblin spears and swords made quick work of the aggressive boggarts.


    Having fun now, cknail lunged forward and swung his long de around at a warriors chest. Stuck among the ranks of its fellows, it couldnt dodge or back away quickly enough. cknails weapon smashed into it, sending the warrior crashing sideways with a huge gash in its armor.


    A spear from another warrior came out of nowhere and sliced past cknails shoulder, giving him a shallow cut, but cknail ignored the wound and kept on hacking and shing at everything around him. Unlike at the battle in the mushroom forest, the tight confines of this tunnel and his longer weapon allowed cknail to dominate the fight. With his minions behind him, the boggarts couldnt get at his nks.


    After a few more hectic moments of battle, the boggarts seemed to realize they were at a disadvantage. With their usual creepy precision, the creatures suddenly stopped attacking and began backing away. cknailughed and jumped forward. As hended, he brought his de down on the head of a worker, crushing its skull like an egg. At this point, the boggarts abandoned their careful retreat and all turned to flee at full speed. Which was when they were hit by a hail of rocks. The thrown stones did no real damage to the boggarts as they slipped away, but cknail nced back to see who had thrown them. What he saw surprised him. There was a small mob of trogs huddled behind his hobgoblins. Theyd been watching the fight and had thrown the stones. Huh, throwing rocks seemed to be trogs go to move. Well, that was more bravery than goblins usually disyed anyway.


    Snorting in amusement, cknail turned to make sure the boggarts were all gone. Which was when he was surprised again. There was one boggart warrior left in sight. It was standing up ahead, right at the bend in the tunnel, and it looked to be calmly watching cknail. Its ck eyes shone with reflected light as the menacing creature studied its foe. cknails own eyes narrowed as he met its imprable gaze. He really didnt like these things.


    The two enemies eyed each other for another few seconds, until the boggart warrior suddenly looked away and scuttled out of sight. Creepy.

 Under the White 2

    Under the White 2


    There was no sign of any living boggarts in the tunnel ahead of them anymore, so cknail began cleaning his weapon and checking his minions over. After he was sure the injured had been treated, he led his troops over to the fallen guard post. The boggarts hadpletely demolished the barrier during their attack. It needed to be repaired right away, so cknail had some of the nearby hobgoblins grab the trogs that had shown up and get them working. Proper supervision was the key to efficiency when you were dealing with minions. You just had to make sure everyone was watching everyone else. Then, none of them would dare ck off.


    Leaving the workers and a fair number of guards to their task, cknail headed back the way hede. Since he was down here already, he wanted to go check out the crystal cave again, to make sure no other mutants had shown up to steal his energy. It was still his by right of conquest, even if he wasnt there to use it.


    Heading through some tunnels, cknail and his guards made their way through the river cave and soon then reached their destination. cknail left his guards at the entrance and entered alone since he wanted peace and he didnt sense anything dangerous within. As before, the energy flowing out of the fissure in the wall was somehow both calming and invigorating. It felt wonderful. Taking, a seat on arge t rock, cknail shut his eyes and let his core begin drawing in as much energy as possible. Soon, he felt himself growpletely rxed and his mind stilled. The sound of his deep breaths filled the chamber as Balcknail rxed and restored himself. It was quite nice in this cave. He ought toe here more often. Unfortunately, he had pressing matters to attend to, so he couldnt stay forever. Sighing, cknail eventually gathered his will and climbed back to his feet. He wasnt sure exactly how long hed been resting, but it was possible that several hours had passed since hed first entered the cave, or ten minutes.


    Grumbling aboutzy minions, cknail led his guards back into the river cave. Since he was feeling wistful and invigorated, he actually took the time to examine and study his surroundings as he walked. The river cave was really a rather impressive sight. It was the biggest cavern cknail had ever seen,rger than even the mushroom forest cave. The most notable features were the rushing river that ran through it and the smooth stone columns that reached up from the floor to the ceiling. The columns seemed to have been worn down by untold centuries of water. Looking down, it was fairly obvious that the smooth but uneven floor had been worn down by water as well. Wait a second


    This cave floods! cknail announced in surprise as he stopped and looked around.


    His guards were momentarily confused and almost walked into each other, beforeing to a stop as well. They nced at one another, and then one of them looked at cknail and shrugged. Ya, probably.


    cknail grunted sourly. If the river floods then I wont be able to get to the crystal cave or the mushroom forest.


    Yes, boss, the hobgoblin replied with careful neutrality. He obviously didnt know what else to say and wanted to avoid annoying his chief by saying the wrong thing.


    What am I going to do about the flood?


    This time none of his minions replied. They wisely kept silent instead, so cknail glowered at them for a moment before turning to study his surroundings. This was a serious problem. The water would probably rise in the spring when the snow began to melt. cknail couldnt lose ess to two such important caves for who knew how long! There might be another way to the mushroom forest, but the crystal cave was only essible directly from the river cave. Being able to recuperate and gather energy there might save his life in the future.


    Scowling, cknail studied the river bank. He wasnt sure what needed to be done, but he knew it was going to be a lot of work. It was a big cave, and the flood would contain a lot of water. Hmm, someone was going to have to build something. That seemed like Ferrars thing. Yes, this definitely seemed like a job he should dump on Ferrar.


    Having decided on a course of action, cknail immediately began heading back to the surface. On his way up, he moved through the twisting tunnels of the mine and passed several work parties. He also encountered some small groups of trogs that were just hanging around. Apparently, there were some idle paws around. Good.


    After dragging Ferrar away from a hot forge, cknail took him down to the river cave and showed him the problem. Ferrar briefly considered building a raised bridge, but that seemed problematic and dangerous, so he eventually settled on a long flood wall as the only real possible solution.


    Seems like a lot a of work, cknail observed.


    Ferrar sighed and gave cknail disgruntled look. It will be a lot of work, but it would also help with security. A wall would keep the crabs and smanders out of our territory. Sometimes, a crab will wander into the mine and scare the goblins. Also, some of the miners have seen a smander creeping around. He might be eating goblins, but he doesnt do it when any hobgoblins are looking, so we arent sure.


    Huh, the critters all avoid me, but I suppose a good wall would also prevent boggarts from sneaking in, cknail observed. The river cave had a few tunnels on the far side that hadnt been explored or guarded properly.


    It will also serve as practice to make Ironbreaks aboveground fortifications, which we cant make in the snow, Ferrar replied as he scratched his nose thoughtfully.


    Getting work on the flood wall started turned out to beplicated. Rounding up some trogs and goblins to haul rock over wasnt that hard, but that was just one part of the n. It turned out that cknail had to personally be present to keep the predators away. Smanders and crabs lurked in the waters. Only cknails fear power was capable of warding them off and preventing them from grabbing workers that got too close to the water.


    There was also the matter of actually building the wall. A lot of mortar would be needed to stick the rocks together and make the entire construction water proof, and Ferrars ovens would take a long time to make so much mortar. Thankfully, Ferrar had another solution.


    Imp has some stuff in hisb that could work. It was very smart of you to get him to show me everything he had, boss.


    cknail nodded in agreement. Im very smart.


    After sending some minions to drag Imp out of hisb and away from anything that might explode, the hobgoblin mage was brought down to the river cave. At Ferrars suggestion, hed brought his staff and several mysterious bags.


    Whats this secret magic? cknail asked as Imp put his gear down.


    Its not a secret, boss. These stones just dont explode, so I thought they were useless and was going to have my helpers throw them away, Imp replied as he put a grey mana stone in the slot atop his staff.


    cknail sighed. Dont just throw away mana stone. Thats a bad idea. Also, not everything has to explode.


    Explosions make everything better, Imp replied confidently.


    No, they dont. Ive been in many situations where explosions made things worse. Too many, cknail told the mage in serious tone. Anyway, whats this magic do, and how is it going to help me build a wall?


    It slowly melts things, like rocks.


    Huh, why is that useful? cknail asked as he gave Ferrar an enquiring look. Rocks needed to be hard, or a stone wall was kind of pointless.


    Simple, boss. Imp can use his staff to soften rock until its like y, after that it will slowly harden back to the way it was. We can use this magic to stick rocks together and to rece some mortar.


    Oh, that does sound useful. How many of these mana stones do you have? cknail asked Imp.


    Imp sighed. Not enough, although one stone can be used for a long time. Ill have to get my helpers making a lot more right away. Its a good thing I wrote the recipe down and have lots of helpers to take blood from and tend the pots.


    You can read and write? cknail remarked in surprise. He hadnt thought that any of his minions had picked up that skill.


    Ive learned a bit from the humans, Imp replied with a distracted shrug. Making magic is a lot easier if you can take notes, boss. Theres too much to remember. I have dozens of experiments going and lots of finished recipes.


    Stupid educated minions. cknail was a little jealous of Imps ability to read. Even hed never had the time to pick that skill up. Oh well, it was easy enough to find humans to do his reading and writing for him. As the leader, he had more important things to do anyway. Yes, reading was more of a minion skill.


    Having finished his preparations, Imp showed off the power of his melting magic on a nearby rock. A dull greyish light seeped out from the tip of the staff and washed over the rock. This didnt appear to do anything, so cknail had to agree with Imp. This magic was quite underwhelming. Ferrar disagreed though. Once Imp was done, he smiled in excitement and walked over to nudge the rock with his boot. The stone deformed slightly under the pressure, as if it was y.


    See! Ferrar eximed proudly as he pointed at the rock.


    Its very interesting, cknail replied carefully. Imp just sniffed disdainfully, as if annoyed by theck of explosions or colorful beams that tasted like strange things. Real magic stuff.


    As unimpressive as the demonstration had been, the magic obviously had potential when it came to building things. Using the staff, workers were able to stick rocks right to the floor. Soon, dozens of trogs were busy building the flood wall, as cknail and two teams of heavily armed hobgoblins watched and protected them. After a while, Imp passed the staff off to an underling and went to make more of the softening crystals. Ferrar supervised the work on the wall for an hour or two, but then had to go take charge of other work parties back on the surface. The project was still going to need lots of mortar, so he had to get his furnaces pumping the stuff out. All the construction materials also needed to be moved down into the cave. Thus, teams of trogs and goblins had to carry it all. Because of the rough terrain in the caves, this was done mostly using pots and simple barrows that were between two long poles and carried by two workers. They were crude and heavy, but cknail had plenty of goblins and trogs to carry them.


    The first stretch of the wall soon began to take shape. It was a crude looking barrier of stacked rocks about as tall as a hobgoblin, but when it was finished it probably would be enough to keep both the water and the creatures out.


    Eventually, cknail decided that work was done for the day and dismissed the workers. He would have let his minions keep at it, but he had to personally be present to guard everything and he needed a break. Standing around had gotten boring fast.


    On his way back up to the surface, cknail noticed a lot of trogs lying together in piles along the way. Did they just sleep in the mine like this? That was no good. It was messy and inefficient. The trogs needed a proper sleeping ce. That way they could be nice and rested for work tomorrow and also easier to track down so they could be put to work.


    cknail chose a suitable side chamber near the surface to be the trogs'' new barracks. It wasrge, warm, and dry. He then had some straw, hammocks, and nkets brought down for them. It was all very basic, but still far better than what trogs were used to. Apparently, the little critters used almost no tools. Living underground limited their ess to materials such as wood and prevented them from using fire. Smoke was incredibly dangerous in such closed in spaces.


    When the new barracks had been thrown together, cknail ced some food inside, and then had his hobgoblins go around grabbing sleeping trogs and throwing them inside. After they recovered from the shock, the trogs appeared to like the ce. Most of them seemed confused by the hammocks, but they loved the nkets and straw. Watching them roll in the straw and hide under the nkets brought a smile to cknails face. Not that he cared about anything but getting them to work harder though, because he didnt. Yes, he was smiling because he was looking forward to how much more useful they would be now that they were happier and could get some proper sleep.


    The next day, cknail got up early and began organizing further work on the flood wall. Despite the winter chill, Ironbreak was thrumming with activity. The surface might have been covered with snow, but now all of Ironbreaks resources and attention were being focused downward, below the ground. The flood wall wasnt the only project underway either. There was also the experimental mushroom farms and mining. Above ground, wood was also being chopped, charcoal was being made, and furnaces were burning almost nonstop to supply the settlement with the materials it needed.


    As cknail was headed down to the river cave so that construction could resume, a pair of hobgoblin guards intercepted him.


    Here, you said you wanted one of these, one of them dered as he held out a limp trog. Even with a nearby light stone, the cave was dark, so it was hard to see the creature.


    I have lots of trogs. Way more than I ever wanted, cknail told them.


    Er, this one is unconscious and wont wake up. We found it hiding in a pile of straw, but its still breathing and everything!


    Does it have a lump on the side of its head? cknail asked with sudden interest.


    No, we checked for that too.


    Alright, gimme, cknail said as he reached over to take the trog.


    To get a better look at the creature, cknail turned and held it up to the light his mage escort was holding. It looked like a sleeping trog. Yep, it had pale grey skin, big eyes, and a tiny little tail Wait, where was its tail? This trog didnt have a tail. cknail squinted as he studied the creature. Now that he was looking closely, this trogs skin had a slight green tint and it looked a little fat. It was almost goblin-like. Hmm, was this trog part goblin? Was that why it had started to transform? Well, whatever. All cknail cared about was getting a useful minion that could direct trogs and explore the underground.


    Smiling, cknail hurried over to the river cave. There, he found Ferrar standing next to Gob, who hade down to check things out.


    Look, I found one! he eximed as he shoved the unconscious trog in their faces.


    Incredible, boss, Gob quickly replied. cknail wasnt sure if he knew what was going on though.


    Its a trog thats bing a hobtroglin! he exined. Ferrar winced and even Gobs smile seemed to tighten.


    What?


    A simpler name might be better, Ferrar remarked diplomatically. Lets wait until he actually wakes up before we name anything.


    cknail shrugged and passed the trog over to a guard so that he could be taken somewherefortable and safe until he woke up. Fine, whatever.


    After that, cknail stood back and chatted with his lieutenants while he supervised the work on the wall. Only one trog got eaten by a particrly vicious smander that lunged from out of the water, but cknail was quickly able to get everyone back to work. By the end of the day, a few dozen more feet of wall was nearingpletion.


    Since theyd worked so hard, cknail decided to further motivate his new trogs minions by cooking them a hot meal. How could they be expected to work so hard on nothing but mushrooms and bugs? cknail quickly ran into some problems though. Basically, you couldnt cook underground because of the smoke, and he wanted to do the entire process in front of them, so that the trogs would be impressed by his skill and know he was the one that had made the wonderful food.


    With that in mind, cknail went to find Imp. The mage probably had a magical solution. Hisb was full of weird equipment.


    Imp sighed deeply when cknail had finished exining what he wanted. Yes, boss. I do have some heating stones I use to boil Elixir smoothly, but all my helpers are already at their limit. Im bleeding them dry to make all the magic stones you want.


    Get more helpers.


    Im already testing all the goblins I can find for the mage gift. There arent more.


    Test the trogs. You dont have to be smart to be a mage.


    Imp scowled and gave cknail a mean re, but he nodded a momentter. Fine, it will be an interesting experiment anyway.


    Having sorted that out like a true leader, cknail headed back down to the trogs along with a goblin mage carrying a small metal heater powered by a red mana stone. With the goblins help, cknail was able to get cooking without another problem. The cauldron he set up in the center of the chamber was soon bubbling away and filling the entire room with a delicious aroma, which probably wasnt dangerous.


    The smell drew in dozens of trogs until there were almost a hundred of them in their new barracks. They watched with worshipful eyes as cknail finished up the first batch of stew and began serving it in small y bowls to the trogs that begged the hardest and looked the cutest.


    Its a shame you cant learn to cook like the goblins did, cknail mused as he passed a trog a y bowl. None of you want toe up above ground.


    cknail had ns for these weird little critters beyond using them asborers and miners.


    The problem was that living in caves was very different from living on the surface. That really limited the trogs development, and cknail didnt have the time  or the will  to run their lives for them. No, cknail was pinning his hopes on the trog that had started to transform. Hopefully, he would be a half decent minion and be able lead the other trogs, without cknail having to get too involved. As the leader, he was already way too busy.

 Under the White 3

    Under the White 3


    A week went by without any further scuffles with the boggarts. There were a few sightings of dark figures lurking near the guard posts, but they didnt attack again. Instead, they seemed content to watch the hobgoblins and bide their time. cknail really wished he knew what the creepy creatures were thinking. They acted nothing like either humans or hobgoblins.


    Meanwhile, work continued on the underground projects at a fast pace. The trogs were good workers when properly motivated by hobgoblin taskmasters and asional food scraps. Under cknails watchful eyes, they worked diligently on the floodwall in the river cave.


    It was during this time that the transforming trog woke up. Hed been wrapped in a nket and stashed away at the back of the trogs barracks with a goblin guard. The moment he opened his eyes, the goblin ran off to get his hobgoblin supervisor, who then ran to find cknail.


    cknail immediately suspended the work on the wall and went to check on his newest and most unique minion. The transformed trog was indeed awake and lucid. In fact, he was naked and sitting on the fur nket he''d been sleeping under while staring in disbelief at his own hands.


    Like most newly transformed hobgoblins, he was so skinny his ribs were clearly visible and he had an extremelynky build. His skin was a pale  almost white - grey with only a barely noticeable green tint. He was also bald and hornless, which made several ways he seemed different from a normal hobgoblin more noticeable. His pointy ears were longer and slightly floppy, and his eyes were bigger than normal too. Also, his nose was rounder and shorter than that of a proper hobgoblin, which made him look quite ugly to cknail. As the transformed trog licked his lips, his teeth were revealed. Like a trogs, they were very needle-like and spaced far apart.


    Smiling, cknail walked over to his newly awakened minion. Hello, youre not going to try to kill me, are you? A lot of new hobgoblins do that, so I have to punch them in the face until they stop.


    Looking up, the transformed trog just blinked at him in a confused manner, and then he went back to staring at his own hands.


    Hmm, I see you cant talk yet. Hopefully you arent too stupid to learn, cknail mused aloud. The transformed trogs features definitely gave him a sickly appearance, so maybe he was dumb too. There were a lot of humans thatbined both those traits, and a few hobgoblins as well.


    cknail spent a few more minutes poking and studying the transformed trog, but he just sat there and looked confused, so cknail quickly got bored. He left and ordered another hobgoblin to go take care of the new minion and teach him to speak and follow orders.


    When he wasnt monitoring the construction of the floodwall, cknail frequently stopped in to visit the transformed trog. On the fourth day, the trog had learned to speak and understand most of the basicmands. Apparently, he wasnt dumb after all. Thus, cknail threw his minion some warm clothes -including his first pair of pants - and then took him out on a tour of Ironbreak.


    None of the trogs ever went above ground. They seemed terrified of the light and open spaces, so cknail waited until night, before having a pair of guards drag the transformed trog up into the settlement proper. When he realized where they were going, he tried to resist, but that wasnt an option.


    A chilly night breeze was blowing out of the snow-covered forest as they emerged out under the starry sky. zing fires of all sorts dotted Ironbreak, but it was still mostly a shadowy maze made up of ramshackle buildings covered in snow. Once hed given up trying to w his guards eyes out and flee back underground, the transformed trog began to take in the sights.


    Lots of high lights, the hobtrog whispered as he blinked at the stars and stretched out a hand toward them.


    You cant touch the stars. They float way above the earth and nevere down. cknailughed. What an amusing simpleton this new minion was. He sure had a lot to learn.


    As the overawed hobtrog walked around, his already huge eyes grewrger and rounder in awe. Everything from basic tools to therder impressed him. He had to shield his eyes with a raised hand when they led him to the forge, but the sight of hobgoblins and goblins making tools obviously impressed him beyond his simple vocabrys ability to convey.


    When the tour was over, cknail had the sickly-looking minion escorted back to his cave. He still needed morenguage lessons. Also, it was gettingte so cknail was getting sleepy. He was a busy chieftain and needed regr naps to do his job properly.


    Three dayster, the stone wall cknails minions were building in the river chamber finally stretched all the way from one side of the chamber to the other. cknail nodded proudly as he inspected it. The long construction of stacked rocks that had been mortared and melted together by magic would not only keep out the water when it rose, but it would also keep out all the dangerous predators that lurked in the river. Trogs and goblins could now move to mushroom forest safely. Still, just to be sure, cknail had some of his minions begin building a scaffolding behind the stone. He wanted to be able to have patrols with lights walk from one end to the other safely.


    With the biggest and mostbor-intensive projectplete, trogs and minions became avable to work on other activities. In particr, cknail wanted to know if they could get mushrooms growing underground during the winter. A lot of rotting wood, feces, and food waste was carried down into the warmer caves, but the experiments were still ongoing and had yet to seed.


    Over the past few days, the transformed trog had been spending his time learning to speak and wandering around the caves. He never went far, but he did sometimes go up above ground when night fell. He just shyly crept around and watched hobgoblins go about their business.


    He seems very timid, Gob remarked.


    cknail frowned. Hes a little different than a hobgoblin, and hes facing many new things. It would be strange if he was as overconfident as a usual new hobgoblin.


    All of cknails lieutenants were meeting at his mansion and seated around the big table in his dinning hall. The firece on the wall behind cknail crackled and glowed with warm light, keeping the cold from outside at bay.


    We should give him a name, to make talking about him easier, Herah pointed out. Lately, she been in charge of a lot of the underground patrols. She earned the position by beating up the old patrol leader one day when shed been bored.


    I was just going to call him Hobtrog, cknail said with a shrug.


    Isnt that youd call all big trogs? Ferrar pointed out.


    No, those are hobtroglins.


    There was silence for a moment as everyone digested this. Grimaces appeared on many of their faces, which annoyed cknail. His minions sure were uppity. Even Gob winced and turned to give Herah a meaningful look.


    Um, lets see if we cane up with some better names, she suggested carefully.


    cknail red at her. He could see what was going on here. Whats wrong with those names? I made them. Theyre great!


    Er, theyre a little hard to remember? Maybe pick something else?


    cknail scowled in disbelief, but there were nods of agreement from all the other hobgoblins present, so he didnt refute her. Obviously, his lieutenants were a little dumber than hed thought they were.


    So, what do you want to call them then? If they were going to be so picky, cknail didnt know what would please them.


    We could just call him Ugly, Ferrar suggested. His face is all sloppy and grey.


    No, I call a lot of people ugly, cknail pointed out.


    Imp looked up. How about we give the big trog the name Grey and call others like him lurkers, because they lurk in the dark. Those are nice simple names. Easy to remember.


    There were more nods of agreement from all the hobgoblins present, so cknail just sighed and went along with it. His minions were terrible at naming things but fighting them over this would be more work than it was worth. The meeting went on for a few more minutes before cknail got sleepy and sent everyone away so he could take a nap. The weather made him want to stay inside all the time, so it was difficult to spar and train.


    Thus, cknail spent a lot of time with Grey over the next few days. The transformed trog might have a stupid name, but he was still the most interesting thing around at the moment, since the boggarts werent attacking. He was also smart, despite his stupid looking face. Grey quickly gained better mastery over the humannguage that the hobgoblins used and began learning to use their tools. Soon after that, he began teaching the trogs what he knew and organizing them. This pleased cknail since it was what hed been hoping would happen. The key to being a good leader was finding people to do all the work for you.


    With that in mind, cknail decided to take charge of Greys sword training. It had been a while since cknail had taken charge of a hobgoblins basic sword training, but he needed an excuse to get off his ass. Also, with his pale grey skin, the lurker still looked quite unhealthy. He seriously needed to put on some muscle, and he wouldnt make a very good scout and leader if he couldnt fight.


    After a few sessions of careful sword training in a well-lit cave, Greys stopped hunching over quite so much and begin standing straighter. He also began to move with more confidence. However, sword fighting obviously didnt interest him all that much. During his free time, he preferred to watch the hobgoblins working above ground or explore the mines.


    Eventually, Grey selected an empty cave that was near the entrance to the mine and close to the surface and moved into it. At first, cknail thought he was making it his privateir, but then he invited several trogs to move in with him.


    What are you doing? cknail asked him after looking around the cave.


    Building a making ce. Trogs want to make stuff, like you, Grey replied after bowing before his chieftain.


    Why here? cknail asked him.


    To dig up for good air. Need fire.


    Huh, that was interesting. cknail gave the lurker his approval and then went to find a craftsman to help the trogs build their newir properly. It probably wasnt a great idea to let them mess around unsupervised.


    Over the next few days, when cknail visited the cave for sword training, he saw the trogs workshop develop. Soon, they managed to dig into one of the walls and then all the way up to the surface. They then turned this shaft into arge firece.


    Unfortunately, the trogs still faced several problems when it came to actually using their new firece. Firstly, the bright light from the mes hurt their eyes. Eventually, Grey had to wrap his eyes in cloth to dim the light when he was working around the fire. Secondly, there wasnt a lot of fuel to be found underground. You could burn pieces of dried mushroom stalk from the underground forest and dried feces, but neither made for great or plentiful fuel. cknail had to have wood brought down. This wasnt a problem for him, there was plenty avable, but Grey was disappointed that the trogs couldnt find their own fuel below ground.


    ess to a steady source of heat and light allowed the trogs to try several new activities such as cooking, boiling water, and drying things. Fire safety was an issue, but after the first few trogs burnt themselves and ran around screaming, the rest grew more cautious. Despite a few burns, their new fire meant the trogs were living far better than ever before.


    cknail also gave them some practical gifts, weapons. After some consideration and discussion with Ferrar, he gave the trogs a bunch of solid wooden clubs to use for self-defense. They were simple enough that the trogs could use them without hurting themselves, and they seemed like a good way to crack open boggart armor. Only a bit of drilling and a demonstration using a piece of ck boggart carapace was required until they got the general idea.


    Imp came down and tested the trogs for mages. He found several, proving they could have the gift, but he wasnt sure what to do with them since none of the trogs would leave the caves. If they wouldnte up to hisb, they were basically useless to him. cknail let him figure it out.


    With the river wallpleted, most of the trogs were put back to work in the mines. Most mining had been put on hold since all the miners had been busy elsewhere. However, some of the trogs were ordered to work on the experimental mushroom farms. They built soil beds by piling rocks and carried down all the organic material for filling them. If harvester beetles could grow mushrooms, then cknail thought Ferrar would eventually figure it out.


    After another week of this - and only a few sporadic boggart sightings  Grey grew confident enough to take some trogs out to explore the darkness beyond the caves the hobgoblins controlled. Like the trogs, Grey could move silently through the darkest of caves without making a sound. His hearing and dark vision were incredible. Even the smallest bit of light from a crystal or glowing fungus was enough for him to see by. In fact, Grey kept a small vial of glowing fungus in his pocket for just such a purpose. The transformed trog also scavenged up some other gear, besides the simple clothes cknail had given him. He had his sword, a long shirt, and a dirty old ck cloak with several holes in it. The cloak appeared to be one of cknails old ones, although he had no idea where Grey had found it. The dark clothes helped cover his pale skin, so he could blend into the darkness better.


    Despite all his preparations, cknail nervously watched Grey go out on his first foray into the tunnels beyond the mine. It would be terrible if something happened to Grey. cknail had put a lot of time and effort into raising the lurker. Where was he supposed to find another one? None of the other trogs had shown any sign of transforming.


    Thankfully, Grey never failed to return from his scouting missions. On their third trip, his small party even returned with the mangled corpses of two boggart workers. They ambushed the creatures in the darkness and bashed them to death with clubs before the boggarts could properly react. cknail could only beam proudly at the trogs as they chattered and disyed their new trophies. This was exactly what hed been hoping for. Trogs were perfect disposable minions he could use to harass the boggarts and explore the dark paths.


    Soon, more and more trogs were arming up and heading out to fight boggarts in the unexplored tunnels. Although, Grey usually led them, they sometimes went out without him. cknail was actually surprised by how eager the trogs were to confront their enemy now that they had weapons and a safe ce to retreat to. The trogs really hated the boggarts. Even Grey grew sullen and practically growled when the creatures were mentioned. His eyes narrowed and smoldered with hatred. There was obviously some history there.


    Of course, the asional ambush of a worker in a dark tunnel was hardly a real threat to the boggarts, but the creatures were still forced to withdraw their scouts. The hobgoblin guards cknail had stationed at the edge of the mine reported aplete stop to all boggart sightings. The hunters he sent out into the forest aboveground still ran into boggarts, but the asional trophy brought back a group of returning trogs was the only sign that they were still down in the tunnels.


    When Grey returned from an expedition dragging the twisted corpse of the boggart warrior behind him, cknail could only stare. He was beyond impressed. Behind Grey, several trogs were also carrying the severed heads of four workers.


    Huh, good job. How did you kill the warrior? cknail asked as he walked over to Grey.


    The foul ones dont know to fear our scent yet. We swarmed them in the dark. Many of the tribe fell but we beat them, Grey answered with a grim smile. His thin needle-like teeth and wide eyes gave him a deranged look, and the dim light of the of the cave gave him an incredibly sinister air.


    cknail looked the dead warrior over. Im surprised the boggarts sent such arge party near our territory.


    Grey sniffed disdainfully. They didnt. We went far to find their hiding ces, where they thought they were safe.


    Huh, good for you, cknail remarked in surprise as he looked up at Grey.


    The lurker was creepy but even more effective than cknail had thought he would be, even if having him around led to some unforeseen consequences. cknail studied Greys cloaked form and ugly visage. In fact, it was beginning to seem like he may have helped create some sort of unnatural abomination, who had then started a brutal race war. Not bad. There was some real potential here.


    Grey returned cknails grin. We also found it.


    Found what?


    The foul things nest. I saw it myself after we killed their guards.


    cknails smile grew wider. Yes, there was a lot of potential here.

 Under the White 4

    Under the White 4


    Upon receiving Greys report, the first thing cknail did was run off to talk to Gob. When he found him, he immediately ordered the other hobgoblin to begin assembling the full might of cknails tribe. cknail wanted every hobgoblin that could hold a spear ready to march, and as much magic power as he could get. It was time to strike back against the boggarts and hopefully end their assaults on the mines. cknail couldnt let them continue to harass his forces above and below ground. He had more important enemies, so the boggarts needed to be exterminated.


    Grey is just as useful as I thought hed be, cknail remarked with a proud grin once he was done exining everything to Gob.


    Yes, boss. Truly, it is like youre so wise you can see the future.


    Im a super great leader, cknail agreed with a nod. I think we need even more lurkers now. They are just too useful to only have one. Im putting you in charge of getting me more.


    Er, how would I do that, boss? None of the trogs seem to be transforming.


    cknail grinned smugly. Ah, I know the answer to that, since Im so smart and amazing. You really need to get smarter. You see, Grey is part goblin. You need to get a whole bunch more trogs that are part goblin.


    Gob suddenly looked concerned. Um, boss. How am I supposed to do that? What exactly are you ordering me to do?


    Figure it out yourself. I have to go back to Grey, cknail replied with a dismissive wave as he turned to leave. Make sure my troops are ready to move when I get back.


    Leaving Gob behind, cknail hurried back underground to where Grey was waiting.


    Alright, lets go. I want to see the base you found, cknail told the lurker.


    An hesitant look appeared on Greys pale face. You sure? We no bring a light into the dark. It be hard for you. The lurker was still learning to speak properly so his speech could be a little garbled, or maybe it was a lurker thing. cknail honestly wasn''t sure yet.


    Ill be fine.


    You sure? Hobgoblins stumble in dark. I see you."


    cknail huffed indignantly. Im one of the greatest scouts ever! A dark cave is no problem for me. Im not some dumb blind human. I hunt in the dark all the time.


    What a human? Grey asked. There was a lot of basic information he didn''t know since he''d lived his entire life underground.


    Er, theyre not important. Just take me to the boggart nest.


    Nodding reluctantly in eptance, Grey did as he was told and began to lead cknail through the tunnels. They quickly reached one of the guard posts at the edge of the mine and passed into the dark passages beyond it. Immediately, their pace slowed down to a crawl and cknailpletely lost his ability to see. Everything was ck. He couldnt even see the walls or the floor. He did manage to find a rock though, by hitting it with his shin. Ouch.


    Are you still here Grey? cknail whispered as he hopped on one foot. His pride was almost as sore as his shin.


    There was a barely audible sigh from somewhere up above. I take out moss light.


    There was a brief shuffling noise from up ahead and then a slight pale light appeared as Grey pulled out his ss vial filled with glowing moss. It was incredibly faint and didnt really illuminate its surroundings, but at least cknail could tell where his guide was now. Hobgoblins had great night vision, but it was apparently not nearly as good as that of trogs and lurkers. His hearing also seemed less sensitive than Greys to the sounds of the underground.


    Good? Grey asked.


    Shrouded in darkness, cknail grimaced. He was too proud to give up. Yes, lets keep going.


    Grey didnt reply. His gloomy light simply started bobbing and swaying as he just began walking again. cknail hurried after him as quickly as he dared. He still couldnt see much of anything.


    Time crawled by with agonizing slowness as cknail followed Greys little light, but they made steady progress and cknails shins only hit a few more rocks. If he stared really hard at a particr ck spot, cknail thought he could usually detect solid objects before actually walking into them. Still, cknail was quite happy when they passed by a patch of glowing moss that lit up the cave around it. That allowed him to see the floor for a few moments before they passed beyond the moss light.


    Soon after that, cknail noticed a tiny orb of yellow light hanging off in darkness. He stopped and turned to whisper at Grey. Whats that yellow light?


    Bright stinger. It lure prey then bite and kill, Grey replied without stopping.


    That sounded interesting, and cknail kind of wanted to go poke the yellow light now. However, he also didnt want to get left behind, so cknail hurried after Grey. They carefully made their way through the ck tunnels for an unknown amount of time. In the dark, cknail found himself having trouble keeping track.


    However, Grey eventually came to a stop. The lurker turned around raised the vial of moss to illuminate his face. He then raised a finger to his lips to signal for silence. The pale lurker looked disturbing, but cknail was too surprised to resist as Grey grabbed his shoulder and shoved him down behind a rock. The lurker than pocketed the vial of moss, and darkness enveloped everything. cknail was left alone with no idea what was going on around him. This was no fun. Maybe he shouldnt have made Grey bring him after all.


    Without sight, cknail focused on listening. The cave was almostpletely silent, but he thought he heard a faint scratching sound somewhere up ahead. Crack! cknail flinched as the sound of metal hitting something hard rang out from the ck. What was happening? Should he do something?


    There was several seconds of scuffling and cknail thought he heard a familiar hiss before the dark grew quiet again. He really wanted to ask Grey what was going on now, but he kept silent and waited. His patience was rewarded a momentter when Greys moss light sprang back into existence.


    I killed boggart guard. Lets go. Base this way. Be quiet, Grey exined before turning to begin walking away. cknail thought he saw the shadowy form of a boggart workerying at the lurkers feet.


    After a bit more walking, Grey stopped and helped cknail crawl into a small passage. Goblins were burrowing creatures but being in tight confines so far from the surface still made cknail a little nervous. Thankfully, they didnt have to travel all that much further. After a few tense moments of crawling, light appeared in front of cknail. He carefully moved foward until he emerged out onto a long natural shelf that hung above arge cave. As he moved to the side, Grey crawled out and moved up beside him. Together, they then looked out at the cave before them. cknails eyes were used to the darkness now and very sensitive, so he had to blink a few times before the shapes gained meaning.


    Arge caverny before cknail. It was about as wide as his mansion but with a low hanging roof that was decorated by clusters of small stctites. It was lit by a dozen evenly-spaced posts with dim light stones on top of them. Between the posts, boggart workers scuttled about through what looked like thick mud. The entire ce reeked of wet earth and sour food. cknail found himself gagging as he studied the workers going about their business.


    On the far side of the cave there was a wide opening that was guarded by two warriors with spears. cknail could see past them into part of the huge cavern behind them. It was dotted with lights. And around them, tall buildings rose up into the air. From so far away, it was difficult to make out the details, but cknail thought the spires were rounded and that they were several stories tall. Some of them went up out of sight, so he didnt know how high they reached.


    It was an impressive sight, and cknail dearly wished he could see more. From his vantage point, it was impossible to tell how big the cave was or how many spires it contained. Still, this was obviously a permanent settlement that the boggarts had spent a considerable amount of time building. That made it a great target. It was time to leave.


    cknail nodded at Grey and then turned around so that he could begin wiggling his way back through the tunnel. Grey quickly followed him. Only once they were both safely on the other side did he risk a whisper.


    Lets go back. I saw what I wanted, he told the lurker.


    Grey simply nodded and began to lead the way back. cknail could only stumble after the dim light from the vial of moss he was holding. As he walked, he hit his shin on another rock and had to bite back a curse. Well, at least they were headed back now, and this horrible trip would soon be over. He wasnt going to suggest doing this ever again. Hed gotten a lot of valuable information, but a hobgoblins shins could only take so much.


    The pair managed to reach the hobgoblin mine and get up to the surface without a problem. Once there, cknail got involved with organizing his troops. Hundreds of them were hanging around the entrance to the mine now, but more were on their way and they had to form ranks and get equipped properly.


    When they were called up, cknails hobgoblins were supposed to form squads based around the longhouse they lived in. Every house leader was in charge of his bunk mates and making sure they all had equipment. Gob then assigned warriors to help and captains to take charge of multiple squads. Those captains answered to Gob, who served cknail. It was simple system, and more than a little messy, but it had advantages. Mainly, it was easy to remember and that allowed the hobgoblins to muster quickly.


    As cknail was stomping around and yelling at minions to form nice little lines so they could be counted  which was important for some reason  Ferrar arrived with a wagon full of arms and armor. cknail ordered him to hand them out to whoever needed it.


    Imp also soon arrived with half a dozen hobgoblin mages. cknail immediately hurried over to question him. Do you have a death beam yet?


    This operation would be much easier with a proper death beam. Imps usual fiery explosions were too indiscriminate to use underground in most situations.


    Imp sighed. Yes, I found some crystals I can use for that. They arent very shy though.


    Good, good. Dont go anywhere, cknail told him before going back to help organizing the troops.


    Soon, almost all the hobgoblins were lined up properly and ready to move. That was when Herah found him.


    Im ready to fight, boss! she announced as she walked over to him and gave him an enthusiastic salute. She wasnt alone either. There were two squads of hobgoblins behind her.


    Good. I see you brought some troops.


    Yep, these are my patrol squad, and the others said they were your elite bodyguards, so I brought them too.


    Blinking in surprise, cknail studied the second squad of hobgoblins. Huh, he hadnt even known he had elite bodyguards. It wasnt a bad idea. Had Gob assigned them to him? Wait, was that Crow hanging out near the back of the bodyguards? Yes, the well-dressed hobgoblin was wearing a helmet to hide his face and trying to blend in, but that was definitely him. Suspicious!


    cknail turned back to Herah and gave her a smile. You know what?


    What? Tell me! Herah asked with obvious excitement before cknail could continue.


    Er, youve been doing a great jobtely. You deserve a reward


    Wow, thanks boss! What do I get? A kiss or maybe more


    cknail quickly cut her off. You get the honor of being the leader of my bodyguards during the battle.


    Herah frowned. You already have bodyguards. What about them?


    They get the honor of leading the charge against the enemy, cknail exined as he turned to smile at the hobgoblins in question. In response to his words, there were muted curses from the squad, including more than a few from Crow.


    Ha, Crow wasnt nearly as smart as he thought he was. As if cknail was going to let a squad with him in it guard his back during a battle. Crow had probably formed the squad and filled it with disloyal scum. Well, that was fine. Those that survived leading the charge might reconsider their loyalties in the future.


    Working with Gob, cknail eventually managed to get everyone ready to move. The mustering of Ironbreaks forces had taken about two hours, which was way too long. They were probably going to have to hold drills or something. Before the boggarts had shown up, that simply hadnt been a priority during the winter.


    We will move one squad at a time through the caves. Theyre too tight for more, cknail told his lieutenants. Hed called a meeting right before giving his troop the order to march.


    Gob and the others nodded, so cknail turned to Grey. Were going to need you to lead the way to arge cave where we can regroup. From there, well rush through their farms and cut a way into their city.


    I know a ce. It big enough, Grey reassured cknail.


    With that sorted out, the hobgoblin force began moving out. Squad by squad, they marched down into the mines. Each squad followed the one in front of it and had a goblin or hobgoblin mage to provide them with light. Grey led the first squad and had a screen of armed trog scouts covering his advance. cknail and Herah were also in the first squad, although the only thing they could really do was walk after Grey and hope he was taking them in the right direction.


    Thankfully, he was. After several minutes of marching, they arrived in arge circr cavern that contained three small pools of water. The smooth floor of the cave made it look like the ce flooded frequently, but for now it was a perfect ce to regroup. cknails group took up position at the side of the cave and waited as more hobgoblin squads arrived.


    It took longer than cknail would have liked. Over an hour. He could only wait in the shadowy cave far beneath the ground and listen to the gentlepping of water and the asional hobgoblin fart. His incredible patience was rewarded though, when Gob arrived with thest squad.


    Finally! cknail growled as he grabbed Grey and pulled him over to Gob. Which way is the enemy?


    I lead way through caves, until their lights shine, Grey replied enthusiastically. He seemed excited by the thought of the uing battle.


    That was fine with cknail. After a brief talk with Gob to make sure nothing had gone wrong, he got everyone moving again. This time, they swarmed through the tunnels as fast as they could. It was important that they catch the boggarts off guard as much as possible, but stealth wasnt an option, so they had to rely on speed.


    The mass of hobgoblins quickly encountered resistance. They were moving too quickly for the trogs to screen their advance, so after climbing over a short ledge, cknail and Grey found themselves facing a pack of boggarts. There were five of the creatures, and cknail didnt waste a second on surprise. He lunged forward with all his speed.


    As the boggarts reeled back in shock, ail drew his de and began hacking and shing withplete abandon. His minions were still behind him, so he didnt have to worry about hitting them. Thus, his sword smashed one bloody boggart aside and then severed the head of another. As he stepped forward and impaled his third target, the boggarts broke and began to scramble away. They hissed and chirped fearfully as they tried to flee into the darkness. cknail charged after them, and brutally cut down one more, but thest boggart worker managed to disappear into the shadows.


    Stink toads, cknail swore as he came to a stop. He didnt have a light on him, so he couldnt give chase.


    That was when Grey charged past him and into the darkness after the boggart. cknail had forgotten he was there. Well, that was good. The lurker could probably catch a worker. Still, there was no point wasting time.


    cknail ran back to the ledge. Several of his bodyguards had already managed to climb it, but the rest of the army had slowed behind it. That wouldnt do. cknail had some of his guards pull out rope and hang it down over the ledge so that it could be climbed faster. Thankfully, the ledge was barely taller than a hobgoblin, and he quickly got a system going and his minions began zipping up the climb one after another. That done, cknail led the way down the tunnel after Grey. He really hoped there werent any forks in the tunnel up ahead.


    There were. After about a hundred feet, the path split it in two, and cknail had no idea which tunnel to take. However, before cknail had to choose one at random, Grey returned.


    I got boggart, he replied as he stepped into the light.


    Good. Hopefully, the noise were making hasnt echoed all the way to their base.


    Dont know, Grey replied with a shrug.


    Just point out the right way. We need to keep moving.


    Grey nodded and headed down the left tunnel. The passage behind cknail was now full of waiting hobgoblins whod trailed after their leader. cknail eyed them for a moment and then followed after Grey. His way was lit by a hobgoblin mage holding a crude staff, but shadows lurked and shifted in every direction. Irregr rocks jutted out from every surface, blocking both the light and everyones vision. It was hard to tell what was a patch of shadow and what was a hole in a wall or pit in the ground.


    The hobgoblin army marched on behind their leader though. They didnt fear the dark. Soon, cknail turned a corner and saw some light up ahead. As he squinted, he recognized figures moving up ahead in the light. It looked like there were dozens of people running around, although he couldnt see any details.


    The boggarts. We here, Grey announced with a bloodthirsty snarl. The foul ones heard us and are gathering.


    Then were going to have stomp them into gooey paste before they realize what theyre up against, cknail replied confidently. That said, the hobgoblin warlord drew his sword again and prepared to signal for the charge. It was time to see how the boggarts liked being invaded for a change.

 Under the White 5

    Under the White 5


    cknail grinned savagely as he raised his sword and eyed the shadowy group of boggarts that were standing in front of the passage ahead of him. Many of the hobgoblins in cknails army were strewn out in the tunnels behind him, but there were still several dozen of his warriors nearby.


    Charge my minions! We need to clear the entrance before they get reinforcements, cknail yelled as he started to run. He didnt go too fast though, since he didnt want to get ahead of everyone else and end up fighting alone.


    cknail charged straight toward the enemy. As he got closer, their forms got more distinct. They were definitely boggarts. cknail counted around a dozen workers and about the same number of warriors. As before, the warriors were all carrying long spears. That seemed to be their standard weapon.


    After a quick nce over his shoulder to make sure his allies were right behind him, cknail picked up speed and mmed into the assembled boggarts that were trying to guard the passage into the next chamber. Two spears sliced toward his chest, but cknail whirled to the side and cut off the arm of one of the attacking boggarts. It screeched in pain as it stumbled back, opening a hole in the enemy line. Drawing forth burning power from his core, cknail pressed his advantage. Dodging another spear, he smashed a worker aside and then whirled his de around to deflect another attack by a warrior. Then, he shed at the warriors neck. His de found a gap in the armor there and bit deep. The warrior went down, and cknail spun to find a new target.


    As Herah and his other bodyguards took advantage of the enemies broken line, cknail continued to hack and sh at the boggarts near him. He mangled another worker that got too close and then exchanged a few quick blows with a spear wielding warrior. More boggarts began to arrive through the passage, but now the bulk of cknails force was here. A solid wall of hobgoblins hit the boggarts and crushed them in short order.


    cknail didnt wait for thest boggart to die, instead he got his bodyguards and rushed forward through the opening. He had to seize control of the passage so that his forces could get through and assemble on the other side.


    As cknail stepped through the opening, he recognized therge cavern hed seen before with Grey. Most of the floor was covered in dark muck, although there were bare stone paths leading in every direction. Light posts were spaced out so that they illuminated the entire ce, and dozens of workers were scrambling away toward the far side of the cavern. There, another host of boggarts was gathering.


    Behind cknail, squads of hobgoblins began to spill out of the passage. Squad by squad, they took up position beside their leader, until there were hundreds of hobgoblins assembled.


    Frowning, cknail considered his options. There were still more hobgoblins arriving, but he needed to keep moving. The objective was the enemy city, and that was in the next cave over. To get there, theyd need to deal with the mass of boggarts before them. Oh well. cknail hadnt gotten this far by being afraid of fighting.


    Attack! Seize that opening and kill every boggart in your way! cknail yelled at his minions. At hismand, the gathered hobgoblins quickly began to advance. The ground was mucky but wasnt too hard to cross. The mud was only a few inches thick, and there was solid stone beneath it.


    Instead of leading the charge this time, cknail took a few moments to observe the situation and to make sure there were no problems. More hobgoblins were still making their way through the tunnels and entering the muck chamber. cknail had to yell at them to get them moving faster. He then formed them up into squads and sent them forward.


    It was only when Gob arrived that cknail left him in charge and moved to join the fight on the other side of the cave. He hopped over the muck and ran over stone when possible. That allowed him to reach the back of his own forces rtively quickly.


    However, before he could join the fight proper, there was sudden boom and a pair of hobgoblins over to his left went flying. A huge ssh of mud was thrown into the air as well and it rained down all around cknail. He froze and tried to peer through the flying muck. What was going on? The visibility wasnt great in the shadowy cave.


    That was when he spotted a tall warrior boggart standing near the edge of the battle lines. He was holding a long staff tipped with a glowing crystal instead of a spear. A mage. Uh oh. Not good.


    For a split second, cknail considered his options, before realizing he didnt really have any. The long march through the tunnels and the rush to catch the boggarts by surprise had scattered the hobgoblin mages. cknail had no idea where Imp was, and thus his magical defenses were nonexistent right now. The enemy mage couldnt be allowed free reign though. cknail could already see his minions hesitate in the face of the boggarts magic. The cowards were going to ruin this for him unless he did something, and there was only one thing he could do.


    Grimacing, cknail drew out as much power as he could from his core and then burst forward. Leaving his bodyguards behind, he jumped over muck andnded on some stone as he charged the enemy. A hobgoblin was in his way, so he just knocked the unfortunate minion aside as he pushed past him.


    cknail had to shove several more hobgoblins aside as he approached the frontline from behind his own forces. No one looked in his direction. They were too focused on what was going on in front of them. Scattered squads of hobgoblins were fighting with groups of boggarts. Each side was trying to avoid the deep muck, so there were holes in their lines and the fight was a chaotic looking mess. cknail took a second to look around before entering the space between the two opposing sides. Some of his forces were holding back as they warily watched the enemy mage, who had stepped forward and was brandishing his staff high.


    Still moving, cknail burst out of the ranks of the hobgoblins around him and charged at his target. Magic boiled though his veins, invigorating and empowering his muscles as he dashed forward. The boggart mage saw himing and turned to study him. Then, he began to swing his weapon down and point it in cknails direction.


    Grinning, cknail reacted quickly. As he ran, he gathered up as much magic as he could and hurled it out at the mage and all the boggarts around him. The invisible wave of power mmed into them, causing them to flinch and step back as he closed in.


    This bought him several seconds and allowed him to jump over thergest bit of muck but not quite reach his enemy. The boggart had time to recover from his initial shock and get his weapon pointed in cknails direction. There was a zapping noise as a swirling st of energy flew out if its tip.


    cknail was already moving to dodge the magical strike. With perfect timing and magic enhanced speed, he side-stepped the attack, and it flew harmlessly past him. There were some shouts of rm from hobgoblins as the st headed their way, but cknail ignored them and concentrated on closing the distance to the enemy mage. He kept radiating chilling magical fear to slow and startle the enemy as he lunged. It worked. The boggart flinched, and cknail closed the distance and shed down at his enemy without being sted. The boggart managed to block the blow with his staff, but that was fine. Now that he was on the defensive, he couldnt use magic


    cknail growled loudly as he unleashed a savage flurry of blows on the mage. The enemy managed to block the first two, but the third cut into carapace, and the fourth bit deep into the creatures shoulder. It hissed in pain and its arm went ck, allowing cknails fifth strike to sever its head from its body.


    Of course, cknail still had to deal with all the nearby boggart warriors. Most of them were still suppressed by his magical terror, but he had to jump back as one tried to put a spear through his stomach. cknail had no n to retreat though. Letting out a bloodthirsty yell, he threw himself straight toward the opening to the next cave instead. Holding nothing back, he struck out at every boggart warrior and worker that tried to get in the way. They usually didntst long. cknail cut a swathe through the first group in his way and quickly moved on to the second. Rage and the power it brought was flowing through him now, and he had a mission to aplish.


    Rallying behind him, cknails hobgoblin minions began to push the other boggarts back. There was fierce fighting all around the cavern opening as the boggarts were cut down and pushed back. The ring of shing weapons and the hiss of dying boggarts filled the air.


    Soon, cknail stood right before the opening. He dodged a spear strike and then cut its holder down with a lightning quick counter. On either side of him, the hobgoblin forces were closing in on thest few boggart defenders. cknail growled and raised a hand. Immediately, an oppressive crushing terror hit the enemy. They stumbled and quickly went down under hobgoblin des, which allowed Balcknail to step through the opening unopposed. His minions streamed after him, eager for more violence and destruction.


    cknail stopped as he got his first real good look at the boggart settlement. It was a small underground city. There was no other way to describe it. The opening cknail had just stepped through was on top of an elevated incline, so he had a great view of the ce. Dozens of tall ck spires jutted out from the cave floor and rose up to the ceiling. They seemed to be made from the same shiny dark material as the boggarts weapons. Thin and delicate bridges made from the same stuff also connected many of the towers and there were pinpricks of light everywhere. It looked like the boggarts had hundreds of light stones hanging all around the towers. It was beautiful, but also cold and alien. Looking it over, cknail felt a shiver go down his spine. The ck towers seemed to twist in and out of existence where the shadows hid them.


    Yep, Im going to have to destroy all this before boggarts get everywhere, cknail mused aloud as he took in the sight.


    Boggarts were probably like ants that way. If you them alone theyd multiply like crazy, and there was room for thousands of boggarts to live in this city, and that was more than cknail wanted to fight. Way more.


    cknail didnt have much time for contemtion though. Almost as soon as he stepped into the cave, the boggarts below reacted to his presence. Hundreds of workers began to stream out of the city. They rushed out of the buildings and ran through the streets as they charged cknails position. Soon, they were an uncountable swarm of hissing ck creatures.


    Thats not good, cknail remarked before looking back over his shoulder.


    His own troops were pouring into the cavern, but they had to get through the cave opening. Only a few dozen were formed up and ready to fight. That wouldnt be nearly enough to hold this chokepoint, even with cknail joining the fight personally. Theyd be overwhelmed long before reinforcements could arrive.


    Quickly, cknail spun around and began yelling at his minions to form a defensive line and get through the opening faster. As he was doing this, Imp and two of his helpers stepped through. Finally! A good development.


    I need a death beam! cknail said as he grabbed Imp and dragged him forward. You promised me a death beam.


    Alright, boss. Ill do what I can.


    Just kill all those boggarts before they kill us, cknail hissed. Thats what death beams are for!


    Grunting, Imp yed with the top of his staff for a moment. He adjusted the crystal and turned a screw near its top a few times, before leveling the weapon and pointing it at the closest of the boggarts that had just begun to run up the incline. A momentter, as the boggarts closed in, a purple beamshed out and sprayed across their front ranks. Boggarts fell by the dozen, and the swarm slowed as the boggarts behind them stumbled over their fallen allies.


    See! Death beams work great! cknail crowed happily.


    However, despite cknails enthusiasm, the boggarts were still advancing. Imp hit them again and again, but while many boggarts fell, the swarm didnt grow noticeably smaller and it kept advancing while climbing over its fallen.


    Are you actually killing them? cknail asked the hobgoblin mage. This is working, but Im not sure its a proper death beam. They dont seem scared enough.


    It worked on the mice. They died properly.


    cknail scowled in dissatisfaction. You should test it on something bigger next time.


    Imp huffed indignantly. The problem is theck of explosions. If there were explosions, they would be more afraid.


    At that moment, several sts shot out of the closest ck spires and zoomed toward Imp.


    Look out! Bad magic, cknail cried as he jumped back away from the target zone.


    The transparent force projectiles flew straight at Imp but mmed into a barrier right before hitting him. The hobgoblin mage had let his staff drop and raised a protective amulet instead. The wave of energy from the amulet hadpletely blocked the attacks.


    I thought theyd try something, Imp huffed as he signaled for his helpers to spring into motion. One of them took the staff and began firing at advancing boggarts while Imp focused on supervising the work of three of his other helpers.


    As cknail watched, Imp blocked another barrage and his worker pulled slings and fire stones out of a bag. A momentter, the helpers loaded the slings. Sighting on the towers, they then ignited the red mana stones and hurled them at the bottom of the ck spires. The glowing projectiles trailed fire as they flew through the air.


    I brought explosion makers, just in case. It should be safe to use them on something so far away, Imp told cknail.


    Just dont bring the roof down, cknail replied before turning away. He had his own responsibilities that he had to focus on. The horde of boggart workers was awfully close now.


    Form a defensive line! We practiced this, you idiots, cknail screamed at his warriors. Many more of them had made it through the opening now.


    Suddenly, there was a boom over to his left as Imps protections missed an enemy st. cknail instinctively ducked and covered his head. However, the magical attack had mmed onto empty ground.


    Coughing, cknail turned to re at his minions. If I find anyone out of position, Ill use their skull as a chamber pot!


    Under cknails supervision, a defensive wedge made up of almost two hundred hobgoblins quickly formed up. As more hobgoblins streamed into the cavern, the line began to march forward to meet the advancing boggarts. The enemy was still scuttling forward, despite dozens of them falling to the death beam that was being wielded by one of Imps helpers.


    While this was happening, there was a boom of distant explosions and the ground shivered. cknail looked over to see a fireball m into the base of the nearest ck spire. It exploded violently, cracking the tower and causing it to shudder. Worried, cknail nced up at the roof, but it didnt seem like anything was about toe down on him. Stupid boggarts, forcing him to use explosive magic underground. What idiots!


    cknail then focused on his own task and ran over to join his warriors. Without him there to stiffen their spines and rally them, he didnt trust his minions to hold their ground. cknail managed to take up position at the front of the hobgoblin formation just before the boggarts lead elements hit them. All around him, spears and swordsshed out at ck carapaces. Angry growls and violent hissing filled the air as ck ws sought green skin and steel shed through the air.


    The first wave of the boggarts went down as hobgoblin des met them, but the next rank was right behind them and mmed into cknails force without hesitation. cknail stood strong before the swarm and swung his de around in savage arcs that knocked the advancing boggarts away and ripped them apart. The enemy was relentless though. As boggart after boggart mmed into the hobgoblins, cknail had to draw as much magic from his core as he could to stand his ground. The power flooded into his muscles, allowing him to cut down every approaching enemy with ruthless power, but they just kepting. There didnt seem to be any end to the swarm of hissing boggart workers.


    Hobgoblins began to go down as boggarts climbed over their own dead to get within reach with their ws, but cknails forces didnt waver. They had been well trained, and they knew that they couldnt outrun the swarm. They had no choice but to hold and trust that their glorious leader had a n.


    Off in the distance, fireballs continued to smash into ck spires. There was a loud boom as one of the towers began to topple over. As it fell, it hit another spire, knocking it over as well. A cloud of dust rose up as rubble was thrown into the air. Many of the boggarts that were still running through the citys streets were crushed by the debris.


    The destruction of the boggart settlement greatly pleased cknail, but he had to focus on things closer at hand. Even with his magically boosted strength, he was beginning to tire. Since the start of the fight, hed been striking out with continuous heavy shes. Dozens of boggarts had died under his de, but he couldnt keep it up forever. The hobgoblins behind him were also slowly being worn down as well.


    cknail really wished he had a n.

 Under the White 6

    Under the White 6


    As fireballs flew through the darkness of the huge cave, the horde of hissing boggart workers tore into the line of hobgoblin warriors. Light stones held by hobgoblin mages or hanging near the twisted ck spires that filled the cavern were the only other source of light. A hissing boggart worker scuttled up and bit cknails boot, so he gave it a kick that sent it flying back and then spun around to cut down another boggart that had jumped at him. That done, cknail turned to strike his next opponent. There wasnt one. Unexpectedly, the boggart horde had stopped advancing.


    cknail took a moment to catch his breath and regain his bnce. Had he scared the creatures away with his deadly skills and incredible might?


    That was when cknail noticed a ck beam shoot out of the boggart swarm and hit one of Imps fireballs that was flying overhead. The fireball simply disintegrated, leaving nothing but darkness. The beam then shed several more times, clearing the sky of fireballs.


    Come here, Imp! cknail yelled as he stepped back into the ranks of his exhausted troops. He didnt like this new development. Stupid magic. It never worked the way he wanted it to. Was an unstoppable yet easy to use weapon too much to ask for? No, he just needed better minions.


    Imp quickly ran over to his chiefs side. What do you want, boss?


    What was that ck stuff? cknail asked him.


    The hobgoblin mage just shrugged. It was probably magic.


    cknail sighed. Hed figured that much out. Can you do anything about it?


    Hmm, I cant think of anything.


    cknail sighed again. Yes, he definitely needed better minions. They were without a doubt holding him back. Feeling annoyed, cknail gazed toward the source of the beams. He thought he could a see a group of taller boggarts making their way forward through the ranks of workers. One of them must be the mage.


    The group of taller boggarts swiftly got closer, and it became apparent they were a group of about two dozen warriors. cknail couldnt tell which one the mage was though. He also had no idea what they were nning. Why stop the workers attack?


    Imp - or one of his helpers - didnt wait to see what was happening. cknail nodded in approval someone hurled a fireball straight at the group of advancing warriors. It zipped through the air towards the boggart, but then vanished as another ck energy beam shot up to intercept it. With fireball gone, the beam then shot up and hit the ceiling for a split second before disappearing without leaving a mark.


    Thisck of effect disappointed cknail, but it didnt stop the hobgoblin mages from trying something else. A momentter, a purple death beamshed out from Imps position and toward the boggarts. However, right before mming into the gathered warriors, a shimmering circle appeared. The round barrier reflected the beam like light off a mirror or still water. When the beam hit it, it was thrown back at the hobgoblins. cknail had to duck as the purple energy shed through the air above his head and hit some of the hobgoblins behind. Thankfully, the beam almost immediately flickered out of existence as the mages stopped powering it, but it still left several hobgoblins dead. ncing over his shoulder as he climbed back to his feet, cknail looked over their unmoving bodies and frowned. This was some seriously powerful magic. Hed never seen anything like that mirror shield before, not even during any of Herads battles. The boggarts were obviously more capable then hed thought.


    cknail turned to face the boggart swarm and growled. Magic was so unfair.


    Once they reached the frontline, the wedge of boggart warriors split apart, revealing a new figure that had been concealed among them. cknail grunted in surprise when he saw the neer. It was nothing like any boggart hed seen before. It had a far more terrifying and intimidating form that sent a cold shiver down cknails spine. The creature looked like a human woman. She was covered in the ck carapace that all the boggarts had, but she stood on two legs and had an undeniable feminine shape. Her carapace also didnt look like armor, it almost seemed to have been styled decoratively. In many ces there were wide gaps in her carapace where pale flesh showed. Her face was also quite different from a normal boggarts. It was almostpletely bare of carapace and unsettlingly simr to that of a humans, although her eyes were a creepy solid ck and her mouth and nose were concealed by a carapace mask. She also didnt have ears, making it obvious that this was no real human, merely something mimicking one.


    The weirdly female boggart was armed with a long mage staff that had probably been the source of the ck beams. Her gaze swept the line of hobgoblins as if she was looking for something. cknail studied her in turn, and their gazes soon met and locked. It appeared that she had been looking for him. He wasnt sure how he felt about that. Was it toote to step back into the ranks of his minions and hide?


    We see. Much is exined. We are d we came to investigate the reports ourselves, the human-like boggart suddenly said in an oddly clear and harmonic voice.


    Huh, you can talk! I didnt think you boggarts had the parts for it, cknail remarked in surprise. Despite her appearance, he hadnt expected that to have changed.


    Our noble form was bred to mimic the old enemy closely so that we could learn their strengths, just as other forms were bred for other tasks.


    Er, alright, cknail remarked with a frown. Thisdy-thing sure was creepy.


    You are the anomaly, a rival progenitor of the green ones. The old vermin.


    Im cknail. He was almost certain hed just been insulted.


    The woman creature didnt blink. You are an unexpectedplication to our progenitors great n and ouring vengeance. Your existence is a problem.


    cknail snorted. Too bad for you, because Im going to stomp you like fat icky bugs under my boot.


    We need not be enemies. Our peoples have manymonalities in both desire and origin, the creature announced in sudden shift that threw cknail off. In the ancient days before the progenitor, when we dwelled among the Green, your kind and ours coexisted without conflict.


    How about this. Stop with the crazy talk. I want you to go away and leave my territory. Its mine and youre stealing my food. cknail hated thieves in general and food thieves in particr.


    The boggart noble didnt blink. The host sees much to respect in you. Like our own progenitor, you have seized control of your kind and raised them up into something new and powerful. You have begun something grand, as very few have, the greatest of works. Join with us against the human invaders, who drove us both from our ancientnds. We will ughter them all and show them that we have grown into new shapes that are far more than we were. We have learned from them and taken their strength as our own.


    cknail frowned thoughtfully. Atst, she was making more sense. Well, there are a few humans I would like to see dead. I wouldnt say no to having you help me with that as long as you stop stealing my food.


    The boggart noble nodded. All of the humans must be cleansed so that our host may grow.


    All of them? That seems like a lot of pointless work, like a lot, cknail replied as he gave her an incredulous look. The walking alone


    The humans are now inferior to the Host, they will be ughtered so that the Host can grow. Their ancient conquest made us and now we take back ournds. The Host must grow.


    cknail sighed. What nonsense. Thisdy-thing was crazy. As if cknail cared about things that had happened way before hed been born to people that werent him. Humans werent some big herd with one leader. Sure, you had to kill a lot of them, but many others were useful tools and minions. The species of a minion didnt matter, only how useful they were. It was really a sort of food bnce thing. They had to produce more than they consumed


    The boggart noble seemed to sense cknails resistance to her n. Setting yourself against us would be foolish. The Hosts numbers are beyond counting and we are mighty enough to crush you.


    There are too many humans to count as well. That doesnt matter. Stay out of my territory or Ill mount your head on pole as a warning to other thieving boggarts.


    The boggart noble hissed angrily with surprising volume. If you will not serve the Hosts purpose then you will feed it!


    Off bnce, cknail took a second to formte a reply. He had to remember that he was quite outnumbered here and thus needed to be at his cleverest if he wanted to survive with most his army intact. He needed his army forter, so losing it wasnt really an option. A n was required, something super clever.


    Maybe I should help you. What will you give me in return? cknail asked in order to buy time.


    This seemed to calm the boggart leader down. If you serve our purposes we will allow you to remain within our territory, although you must leave the dark paths and go back to the light world. We will also only hunt a few of your people for food.


    Hmm, interesting, cknail mused aloud. Wow, that was a terrible offer.


    Instead of answering right away, he turned and whispered somemands to Imp. The hobgoblin mage nodded in assent and stepped over to his helpers. cknail then whispered several orders to his nearby soldiers and got them to pass them on.


    This dy did not please the boggart leader. We grow impatient. What is your choice? Submission or death?


    cknail nced up and frowned. Looking down a momentter, he stepped forward and put a smile on his face. Sure, I dont want to die. Lets be friends instead. You can even have a gift, to show how much this alliance means to me.


    That would be eptable. It is good that you know your ce in the hierarchy.


    Good, then here, have this sack full of presents, cknail told her. What did boggarts even like? He had no idea.


    At cknailsmand, one of Imps helpers then reluctantly stepped forward. He moved slowly and was holding the aforementioned sack, which he simply held out in front of him.


    Throw it on the ground, the boggart noble told him. Obviously, she wasntpletely without suspicion.


    The hobgoblin did as he was told and dropped the sack before stepping back. cknail risked another nce upward and then sighed before turning to look as a boggart worker emerged from the swarms ranks and approached the sack. It pulled the bag open and looked inside for a few long moments before turning to look at the noble and making a series of short clicking noises.


    A confused frown appeared on the nobles face and she turned to look at cknail. Why have you given us a bag full of rocks?


    Dont you like rocks? I thought boggarts loved them. Isnt that why you live underground and keep raiding my mine? To steal the rocks? cknail replied as he gave her an embarrassed smile. He had to resist the urge to look up.


    The boggart noble tilted her head slightly to the side and gave cknail a pensive look. No.


    cknail sighed. This was taking too long. The noble wasnt going to be distracted forever. Oh, sorry then. I was going to give you lots more rocks too. Are you sure you dont want them?


    We are not sure if you are as odd and stupid as you seem, but if you are attempting to fool us somehow, we will be forced to punish you. Do not test us, green ones, she replied as she red at the hobgoblin and pointed the top of her staff in his direction. cknail really didnt want to find out what sort of magical attack she had prepared.


    How could I possibly hope to trick you? Im just standing here, trying to give you gifts. Its not my fault you kept doing things that made it seem like you wanted rocks. What would you like as present instead?


    The nobles deep ck eyes narrowed suspiciously. Food. You will tell your forces to drop their weapons and you will kneel before us.


    Sure, sure, cknail replied as he held up his hands. He didnt move though. There was no way he was ever going to do that.


    Now, the boggart noble said after several long seconds had passed. Her voice was full of cold anger.


    cknail nced up and then gave her a cruel smile full of malice. I dont think so. Instead, Ill just kill you, destroy your stupid army of bugs, and level your icky ck city. You shouldnt havee into my territory.


    The female shaped boggart stepped forward threateningly. We were here far before your time, vermin! Prepare for


    cknail didnt get to hear the end of her speech, because that was when several tons of rock mmed down on top of her. The rain of stone hit the cluster of boggart warriors and the workers around them like the foot of an angry god. There was a cataclysmic boom that rang in cknails ears, and he and all the hobgoblins near him stumbled back as a wave of dust rose up and mmed into them, blocking their sight of the impact site.


    Still off bnce, cknail nced over his shoulder at Imps location. The hobgoblin mage was standing behind the ranks of hobgoblin warriors with his assistants, and although he was shielding his face with one hand, he still had his staff pointed up at the ceiling. At his chiefsmand, hed loaded the stone melting mana crystal into the staff and had been using the nigh-invisible ray it produced on the ceiling. While cknail had kept the boggart noble distracted, hed been working on freeing the stctite that had been hanging from the cavern ceiling directly above her head.


    Grinning victoriously, cknail turned back around. The strategy had been risky. His distraction had been growing rather thin by the end, but he hadnt been able toe up with anything else that might work. The boggarts had outnumbered them too much for a head to head battle to work, and the bugdys magical defenses had obviously been too strong for Imp to defeat. Thus, cknail had been forced to use his legendary cunning, and it had worked like a charm. He was so amazing.


    The cloud of dust had yet topletely dissipate, but cknail could see more now. A pile of broken rubble towered over where the group of warriors had used to be, although it was impossible to say how many of them had been crushed. Around the rubble, the swarm of workers were in chaos. Many of them had frozen up, while others were running away or climbing over each other in their haste to escape.


    cknails own forces werent exactly orderly either though. The hobgoblin formation had dissolved into loose ranks and many of them looked shocked. cknail had told some of his minions to spread word of his n, but apparently not everyone had been informed.


    A sh of movement near the rubble drew cknails eye. As he turned and peered through the remaining dust, he saw a tall dark figure pull itself up off the ground and stumble away from the fallen rocks. It looked like at least one boggart warrior had survived the destruction. cknail then saw another figure appear in the dust. He frowned as he studied it. It looked vaguely feminine.


    Toad slime! cknail cursed. The boggart noble was still alive. That was no good. What was he going to do? If she rallied her swarm of workers, then she could still drive cknails army away.


    cknail eyed the boggarts stumbling through the dust ahead of him. There was only one way to make sure things were done right this time. Looking around, cknail saw Herah over to his right.


    Gather your squad and follow me. Im going in! cknail told her. She blinked in surprise but nodded along, so he turned around and began running toward the boggarts.


    Sword already out, cknail headed straight for the enemy noble. Unfortunately, there was a boggart warrior with a spear in the way. As he dove into the dust, it saw himing and quickly moved to intercept.


    cknail didnt slow. Instead, he adjusted his charge to meet it. As the creature stabbed at him with its long spear, he sidestepped the blow and ducked in closer. In response, the boggart warrior reared up and tried to sh at him with its sharp front ws. Surprised, cknail was still fast enough to throw himself sideways out of the way of the second attack and then counter with a powerful two-handed stab of his own. The blow hit the boggart warrior in the nk and tore through its carapace before sinking deeper.


    The boggart warrior shrieked and began toppling over, so cknail pulled his de free and stepped away. That done, he started looking for the noble again. Herah and his bodyguards caught up to him just as he spotted some movement up ahead. It was the noble.


    Grinning in excitement as magic and bloodlust flowed through his veins, cknail immediately charged after his target. Sprinting around some fallen rocks, he quickly closed the distance. The boggart noble was still stumbling, as if shed been injured. Sensing weakness, cknailughed as he ran toward her. She turned and gave him a cold re as he closed in. It looked like shed lost her staff. That would make this easier.


    Unfortunately, that was when another boggart warrior emerged out from behind a nearby pile of rock. Its four feet wed at the rocky ground as it shot forward and stabbed at cknails chest with its long, deadly spear.

 Under the White 7

    Under the White 7


    Dust hung thick in the air all around cknail as he jumped back to avoid a blow from a boggart warrior that had just charged him from out of nowhere. Up ahead of him, the boggart noble stumbled away through the stone rubble that had fallen from the ceiling thanks to Imps magic and his masters genius.


    Snarling angrily, cknail drew on his magical strength and leapt at the warrior. His furious flurry of blows pushed the creature back. It staggered just as Herah joined the fight. She jumped in from the side and sliced open the creatures neck with her shorter de. ck blood squirted from the wound as her sword came free.


    Im helping! she announced happily as shended beside cknail and the boggart copsed.


    Just a little. I could do this by myself though, cknail replied as he saw a small pack of workers appear and begin heading his way. He pointed at them. Now, take your squad and hold them off. I need to get their leader.


    Still grinning, Herah nodded as her squad arrived and took up position around her. cknail left them to their job and charged off at the noble again. This time, no new arrivals got in his way. He was able to close in on her before she got very far. She was still stumbling away, but as he neared, she spun around to re at him. There was a hateful snarl on her face and her ck eyes shimmered with rage. Creepy.


    You are vermin! You are nothing before the Host. We are countless and unending, she yelled. This nest is but one of dozens, and we are ever growing. We will destroy you and all your disgusting people for daring to strike at us.


    Shut up and die, bugdy! cknail hissed as he dove in. She was like a terriblebination of everything he hated. Human women, freaky bugs, magic, and people that talked too much.


    Instead of epting her inevitable death, the bogart noble raised her hand and pointed at cknail. There was a small ck amulet with a transparent stone set in it clutched between her fingers.


    The trinket looked dangerous, but rage swirled through cknail, driving him forward. Thus, instead of trying to dodge whatever effect the amulet would produce, cknail attacked with everything he had. Magic flowed up from his core and raged through his body as he unleashed all the energy he could. Its burning might quickened his movements as he struck, and at the same time, he let out a savage growl as he mmed a wall of magical terror directly in her face.


    The boggart noble staggered as the magic tore into her mind and began thrashing about. As this was happening, cknail attacked with lighting quick speed. His de sliced through the air and then came down on the boggart nobles outstretched arm. A momentter, the hand that was still clutching the strange amulet hit the ground, leaving a bloody stump.


    The boggart leader shrieked as she fell to her knees and clutched the remains of her arm to her chest. Without mercy, cknail kicked her in the shoulder so that she flopped over onto her back. He wanted to make sure he had a good view of her remaining hand, so she couldnt get up to any more mage tricks.


    You will all die for this! Your petty victory here means nothing, she hissed as she red up at cknail hatefully. This was but one small nest of many, and we number beyond counting. The Host will consume all who dare stand against us!


    Sighing, cknail stabbed her through the chest with his sword. There was a gap in her armor-like carapace between her breasts for some weird reason. That was a very impractical spot for a gap, but whatever.


    Apparently, cknails first blow didnt kill the boggart noble right away. She tried to say something more, so he stabbed her in the chest again. That did the trick. She shuddered and theny still. Huh, now that she was dead and mangled, she looked a lot less like a human and more like a boggart. It was probably because of all the ck blood.


    Anyway, with his missionplete, cknail withdrew his de and looked around. Herah and some of his bodyguards were still fighting some scattered workers, but there was no real organized resistance left in sight. Not that cknail could see very well with all the rubble and dust around. He should probably return to his troops before they decided hed died and ran away.


    Were falling back to the others, cknail announced as he sheathed his weapon and begin walking. His bodyguards quickly moved to dispatch their remaining opponents and follow him.


    Herah had a satisfied look on her face, not to different from the one she wore after sex. Apparently, ughter pleased her in a simr way. That was a little off-putting, although cknail couldnt really judge. There was probably a simr look on his own face.


    The hobgoblins quickly jogged back toward the rest of cknails forces, which were holding their position. The mass of hobgoblin warriors had reformed their lines now that they were no longer under attack. As cknail approached, Gob and Imp quickly pushed their way through the ranks and ran over to meet their chief.


    Wonderous one! You have returned, and the terrible enemy has been beaten back. What do you wish from us now? We will leap to obey! Gob eximed reverently. This earned him a sour look of disagreement from Imp, but the hobgoblin mage didnt say anything.


    cknail gave Gob a smug grin. The enemy leader is dead. I killed her myself.


    Gob nodded. As expected of the greatest warrior ever. What now?


    In the corner of his vision, cknail thought he saw Imp roll his eyes, but he probably imagined it. There was no way the hobgoblin mage wasnt in awe of his chieftains amazing aplishments.


    Now, we destroy this nest of overgrown bugs, cknail said as he turned to face Imp. The troops will protect you as we move closer to those twisty boggart spires. Then, you will bring them all down with your melty magic.


    Sure thing, boss. That sounds fun, Imp said with a smile as he nced over at the ck towers of the boggarts.


    Under cknailsmand, the destruction of the boggart nest quickly proceeded. He marched his troops closer and cut down the few remaining pockets of resistance with ease. With their leader gone and their swarm shattered, the boggarts were a disorganized mess. Even when Imp began bringing down the spire one after the other, no real threat materialized.


    Soon, the hobgoblin army stood in a huge dark cavern full of rubble and boggart corpses. All the remaining boggarts had fled into the darkness. cknail grinned happily to himself as he surveyed his work. Sometimes he impressed even himself.


    You have in the foul. So, it begins, Grey announced as he materialized out of the shadows behind cknail.


    Spinning around, the hobgoblin chieftain almost jumped out of his skin at the unexpected sound of the lurkers creepy voice. Ack. Dont do that! Also, where were you during the battle? I didnt see you do any fighting.


    cknail had expected more from Grey. Hed put a lot of effort into raising and training the former little trog into a proper minion. The least he could do was fight a bunch of horrible monsters for his chieftain.


    Grey didnt seem defensive though. He met cknails stare without flinching. I was killing in the dark. Where I am best. Among the many is not my best ce.


    cknail grunted sourly. That made sense, sort of, and it wasnt like he hadnt contributed. This victory wouldnt have been possible without Greys scouting. I hope you got a lot of them.


    Not all, yet, the lurker replied as his eyes narrowed with determination.


    Well, work on your hobbies some other time. I need you to lead the way back to Ironbreak, cknail replied dismissively as he turned back to his regr troops. It was time to head home and Grey needed to focus.


    Grey quickly agreed with a nod of his head, so cknail got his troops moving back through the caves toward Ironbreak. Now that the boggarts were dead or driven away, there was nothing for them here. There wasnt even much in the way of loot, despite the size of the boggarts settlement. The creatures didnt appear to use many tools or have any money. Imp took some light stones and other mana crystals off the bodies of fallen boggart mages. and some of the hobgoblins grabbed spears from dead boggart warriors, but that was basically it. cknail had no idea how the boggarts had even built their towers and weapons without proper tools. He was also confused about how they measured status since they didnt seem to collect shiny objects. Maybe they simply buried it all? Weird.


    The journey back to Ironbreak was an uneventful hike through the dark tunnels. cknail was starting to get sick of dark tunnels. Thus, once cknail was sure none of his minions were going to mess up too spectacrly  like wandering down the wrong tunnel and getting lost  he left Gob in charge of getting the returned troops settled down and went to his mansion to take a nap. All the fighting, killing, and long walks through unending darkness had made him sleepy.


    When he woke up the next morning, cknail took it easy and just loitered around his mansion. Hed spent a lot of energy yesterday and his muscles were sore. Hed earned a nice rxing rest. Also, going outside was just annoying. It was cold and there was snow everywhere.


    Thankfully, cknail had some well-trained minions that could take care of things and report back to him properly, so there was no need to overexert himself. Imp, Gob, and Ferrar all knew their stuff.


    Thus, one day of rest quickly became many, and cknail idled away an entire week. He only went out to check on Grey and when he felt like finding someone to yell at. This was surprisingly difficult since the streets were usually empty of minions thanks to all the snow and cold, so he had to use his tracking skills and put some effort into it. That almost defied the point!


    As the days went by, one consequence of cknails victory over the boggarts quickly became apparent. Not only did the hobgoblin mine guards stop reporting any sightings of the creatures, but so did all the hunters and scouts that went out into the forest. With their base destroyed, the boggarts seemed to have deserted the entire area. cknail threw a feast in his mansion to celebrate his victory and invited all his lieutenants. Ha, hed shown those dumb bugs who the boss was! It was him. He was the boss.


    One morning, after cknail had gotten up to have breakfast and then gone right back to bed, he heard amotion from downstairs. Immediately, he decided to ignore it. Pulling his nket up over his head, he tried to get back to sleep. The noise didnt die down though. Instead, he heard someone begin toe up the stairs. A few momentter, someone began knocking loudly on his door. He kept it locked, so that no one coulde in and kill him in his sleep.


    Go away. Im sleeping! cknail hissed as he red at the solid wooden door.


    Its me, Khita! I came to visit you, a cheerful announced from the other side of the door.


    Okay. Go away! The visit is over now.


    Ha, very funny. Open up. Im not going anywhere.


    Grumbling, cknail got up and put some clothes on. He then walked over to the door and opened it. Instantly, Khitas grinning face confronted him. He red sourly at her as he considered mming the door shut again.


    Khita nced at cknails disheveled state and sighed. Gods, youre sozy. We came all the way here through the snow to see you, and you cant even get up to greet us. I bet youve been napping since the first snow fall and havent aplished anything. Obviously, you need someone around to motivate you, like me. I thought Herah would keep you on track, but apparently I was wrong.


    cknail red at Khita and hissed. I havent wasted any time. I keep my minions working hard! Anyway, you dont know what youre talking about. I just fought a war and won! Lots of people died and there were explosions. Big ones.


    Who was it against? The dust bunnies in your home? Because if so, Id say it was a draw at best.


    Go back to Shelter, cknail growled as he continued to re at the redhead. Why was she here?


    No, it was hard to convince Geralhd to make the trip once, and Im cold. No one is going anywhere until we warm up.


    Ugh, fine, cknail said as he stepped past here and began walking downstairs.


    Geralhd was waiting for him in the main hall. He was standing next to the stone firece and warming his hands. One of cknails minions usually lit all the fireces in the morning and kept them fed so that the entire ce didnt get too cold. Humming an annoying tune, Khita followed cknail into the room.


    Ah, cknail! There you are, Geralhd eximed happily as he turned away from the fire.


    Yep, its me. Whyd youe all the way here in winter? Its a tough trip. You didnt destroy Shelter did you? cknail asked. You never knew with humans. They were always doing dumb things and getting into trouble.


    Shelter is fine, it a little boring, and the trip here wasnt so bad. Despite the cold, the weather was nice and sunny, and it hasnt snowed in a few days now. We just dressed warmly and stuck to the road you so kindly built.


    If Shelter is still fine, why go through the trouble?


    We were getting a little tired of just hanging around Shelter all the time, and we wanted to see if you were getting along fine here, Khita replied. As he turned to face her, cknail blinked in surprise at how short she looked. Now that he was standing straight, it was obvious that he towered over her.


    Im a great leader, so everything is going great. The only big problem was the boggarts, and I dealt with them, cknail bragged proudly.


    Geralhd nodded. Ah, some of the men from Shelter had been saying they saw boggarts around, but all the sightings stopped a week or two ago. You must have sent out some hunters to deal with the pests.


    cknail gave the man an irritated re. No, I had to lead an army into the dark paths and destroy their nest. It was a lot of work! There were hundreds of them. They had magic and a city. One of them could even talk and looked like a woman.


    Neither of cknails human guests seemed to believe him. They nced at each other and smiled like theyd just heard a joke. cknail red at them both. Stupid humans. They thought they knew everything, but they didnt understand how hard he worked.


    Here, Ill show you, cknail replied as he grabbed Geralhds sleeve and began dragging him out the door.


    Geralhd and Khita tried to protest, but cknail didnt let them. If they were going toe to his base and bother him, then theyd have to listen to what he said and do as hemanded. He didnt have to put up with their ignorance.


    Soon, after a brief walk through the snowy streets of Ironbreak, they arrived at Ferrars workshop. His work area was actuallyprised of severalrge buildings now, but there was still one main building. Thick smoke was pouring out of the many nearby chimneys as they approached, and hobgoblin workers were running around on various tasks despite the snow. Some of them were pulling sleds full of charcoal while others were carrying various other materials as they rushed from building to building.


    Wow, it certainly is quite busy here. Frantic even. What are these hobgoblins doing? Gehd asked as they neared the door.


    Most of them are making weapons for my warriors, although there are lots of other stuff they make too, like tools and clothes, cknail replied.


    Are you going to be doing this all winter?


    cknail sniffed. Of course. Thats what Ironbreak is for. All my minions have to work. Why else would I allow them to stay in my territory and eat my food? Remember Werrick? We have to fight him in the spring, and I n to be ready! I keep getting more hobgoblins and they all need new equipment.


    Hmm, thats true. I guess some many peaceful days spent in Shelter have made my soul too tranquil. Its easy to forget that the rest of the world still exists beyond the haze of white that has fallen over everything, Geralhd admitted.


    As they stepped inside the workshop, cknail and the humans were hit by a wave of hot dry air. The entire room was full of glowing brick furnaces and hobgoblin workers. As Khita and Geralhd looked around in surprise, cknail walked over to a small table and picked a spear offit. He then returned to his guests.


    This is a boggart weapon. They have big warrior types that use them, cknail exined as he showed the humans the weapon.


    Hmmm, this certainly doesnt look like anything of human construction, Geralhd admitted in surprise as he studied the spear.


    cknail nodded. No, its all one piece, and its made from some weird ck stuff thats like boggart carapace.


    Huh, it does look very weird, Khita remarked grudgingly.


    Yep, there were lots of huge boggart warriors with these weapons and even some mages with staffs like this.


    Khita just smiled again in a dubious way, while Geralhd looked unconvinced. Why were they being so stubborn? Stupid humans. They should just believe everything he told them! He never lied Well, whatever. cknail wasnt going to run around just to convince some humans of their own stupidity. He knew he was right.


    The visit to the furnace filled workshop quickly heated up Khita and Geralhd, so they headed back to cknails mansion. After some more conversation, they decided to go to bed early so that they could rise and return to shelter in the morning, weather permitting. cknail had no problem with this n.


    It failed to snow overnight, and the weather was pleasante sunrise, so Khita and Geralhd prepared to leave while they could. Theyd aplished what theyde to do, check up on Ironbreak and the hobgoblins. cknail gave them some provisions and apanied them to the gate. After waving goodbye, he let out a sigh of relief when they were out of sight. He was d Khitas visit had been so short. She was way too annoying.


    That done, cknail wandered out to go for a quick morning walk and take a piss. At the edge of the forest, he selected a nice-looking tree and began to unbuckle his pants. That was when the tree suddenly turned to look at him.


    We see you atst, it said from a human-looking face that appeared from nowhere.


    Very carefully, cknail buckled his pants back up and stepped away. Obviously, this wasnt really a tree, and it wasnt mimic. Mimics didnt talk or have human-like faces. cknail had run into these things before though. They hadnt attacked him then  theyd actually killed a troll hed been fighting  so he probably wasnt in immediate danger. Then again, who knew how talking trees thought?


    The shape of the camouged creature grew more distinct as it stepped out from the greenery. It was vaguely humanoid in shape, although small leafless branches protruded from its upper body. Brown carapace that looked like bark covered most of its exterior. After further examination, cknail thought the creatures face seemed more like a wooden mask than a real face. It was too stiff and artificial looking, even if its expression did move a little.


    You walk among the trees so now we greet you, a soft breezy voice said from directly behind cknail.


    The hobgoblin jumped and he spun around to see another tree-creature standing behind him. This one had a more feminine body with a thinner waist and human-like busty chest. Wait a second! Now that he was thinking about it


    Youre a lot like the boggart nobles! cknail eximed as he took another step back from his visitors.


    The female just nodded stiffly. The dark ones that fled the light and the Green. Once we were one, long ago, before theing of men. The ancient bearers of fire and steel drove them under the earth while we stayed hidden among the trees.


    Alright, so why are you here? cknail asked. He didnt like being cornered and surprised. This situation was making him ufortable. He wished he had some bodyguards with torches and axes.


    You are interesting, a new thing and yet very old. Useful perhaps? the first creature replied simply.


    The female nodded again. We are slow and few in number, but still we watch what happens in the world around us. The dark kin prepare to strike. We know you have met them and won.


    cknail grinned smugly. Ya, I stomped them. They werent so tough.


    They will crush you in time. They are many, and if they seize the above ces, they will outnumber the stars in the sky. Ever stronger they will grow now that their long transformation isplete.


    Transformation?


    They are not as they once were. Closer to us they used to be, but their cruel master has breed them for war and conquest. Our people are quick to change, both from one spawn to another and when we seek to grow new flesh and bone. He used this. Now they are no longer equals, or even one people. They are several, all bent to the nobles will.


    cknail hadnt really followed that. Were the tree people and boggarts able to control how their bodies grew somehow? Was that how the boggarts made their tools?


    Wait, something clicked and fell into ce in cknails thoughts, connecting several of his memories. Had some of the tree people made his bow in a simr way? Had the man Saeter had gotten the bow from been a tree person in disguise? Suddenly, cknail had so many questions. He needed to focus on the important stuff though.


    Why are you telling me this? What do you want from me? he asked. Everyone always wanted stuff from him.


    The two tree people nced at each. The female then turned to cknail and answered. You must prepare for more struggle. Come the spring, the dark kin will spill forth from the earth like a tide across all thend. They will devour everyone, even us. For they think us weak and old. Thus, we came to warn you to keep this greater threat in mind always.

 Interlude: The Long Wait Ends

    Interlude: The Long Wait Ends


    Dalin huffed as he hiked up the side of the grassy hill. His breath left the faintest white fog in the air. It was still early in the morning and the sun hadnt had time to chase away the chill of night. Thankfully, his homespun wool clothing kept him warm.


    Once he reached the top of the hill, Dalin took a look around. In front of him, the hill sloped downward for about twenty feet before ending at a short cliff that had been dug over countless years by a creek. The rush of water filled his ears, because the stream was swollen with dirty water from the recent snow melt. The water flooded over the creeks banks as it raced through the nearby hills.


    Dalin grunted as he turned to study the fields around the stream. Gentle rolling hills surrounded him and there were few trees or evenrge bushes in sight. In fact, most the ground was empty of anything but the battered remains ofst years nting. That was too be expected, since Dalin was a free farmer and these were his fields.


    Spring had finallye, and over the past few days, its warmer winds had melted thest of the snow that had clung stubbornly to the earth. As a result, the air was had fresh scent and felt full of invigorating energy that prickled Dalins skin. After spending so much time indoors and sheltering from the cold next to the fire, winters hold on the world was finally over. The wait was over. Everything wasing alive again and the world was opening up.


    As was usual for this time of year, the swollen rivers of the creek were doing some damage to Dalins fields, but it wasnt anything he hadnt dealt with a hundred times before. Over in the distance, he could see that some portions of his livestock fence had fallen over. That would need to be fixed before he brought his animals out. Dalin sighed. The work never ended, despite the greying of his hair and the passage of years. Year after year, he struggled to keep his farm running.


    Well, I shouldntin too much. The gods might think Im ungrateful, Dalin muttered glumly to the wind.


    These were hard times, and most people had it worse than Dalin. The war had entered a lull, but that didnt mean it wasing to an end. Far from it. It would pick up again eventually, as it had many times before. Thankfully, the fighting was far to the east, so Dalin didnt need to worry about raiders. He also didnt need to worry about press gangs, unless things got really bad. He was too old for military service and the recruiters had already taken his eldest son. His two younger sons were also still children and not fit for the army.


    Broken earth near the creeks bank caught Dalins Eye. He frowned as he saw some tracks in the mud near the creek. Taking a few steps closer, he reached the edge of the cliff and peered over it. Hmm, he didnt know what had made the tracks. They almost looked wed, and there were a lot of them. Theyd obviously been made by several beasts, not just one. Dalin lived in the north-west part of Eloria. He wasnt all that far from the border, but these were still civilizednds. Theyd been cleared of most dangerous beasts long ago, and kept that way by the local lords. Briefly, Dalin considered the idea that the tracks might belong to goblins or even a hobgoblin, but quickly discarded that thought. The shape was all wrong. Hed seen goblin tracks many times. The pests were always pilfering feed from his barn.


    Honestly, Dalin had no idea what could have made the marks in the mud. Some harpiesnding to drink? That might be it. Hed never seen any of the beasts this far south, but he was fairly sure they were real, and not tall tales. Looking up, Dalin scanned the sky for signs ofrge birds, but he didnt see anything suspicious. Overhead, the sun was hidden among a host of dull grey clouds.


    Feeling reassured, Dalin decided to head back home. The ground out here was still a little too wet for any farming work to be done, but there was still lots of chores he could do elsewhere, like in the barn. His wife would also probably have breakfast ready for him soon, and he was getting hungry. Dalin grinned. His wife was a great cook, and her food was what got him up in the morning every day to face both the unknown and the long familiar struggle that was the life of a farmer, even if her nagging could be as annoying as braying donkey.


    Dalin cast another quick look at the empty sky and then began trudging back towards his home. The mud wasnt bad as long as he stuck to the high ground.


    Soon, the side of Dalins small family farmhouse came into sight. It was a rough-looking building with stone walls on the first floor and ster around the second floor. It had also had a thick thatch roof that gave it a cozy-warm feeling, and this was enhanced by smoke rising from the chimney. Over to the farmhouses right, there was arge wooden barn surrounded by fencing.


    Smiling at the thought of filling his belly with a hearty breakfast, Dalin walked closer and the around to the front of his house. That was when he noticed something odd. The door was open, but no one was in sight. It was still chilly out, so no one would have left it open


    With the image of the mysterious tracks suddenly fresh in his mind, Dn rushed over to the door. An uneasy feeling had settled in his gut and the hair on the back of his neck stood straight up.


    As he ran closer, Dn saw that the door wasnt merely open, it had been smashed. The wood around the handle was broken and shattered where someone had hit it.


    Greta! Are you alright! Dn yelled as he approached the looming entrance.


    There was no answer, so Dn began to panic. There was a shovel leaning against the wall nearby, so he grabbed that before continuing. Terror filled his heart now but worry for his family pulled him into the home. They could be injured or being held hostage by deserters!


    Desperately, Dn hoped he was letting his imagination get the better of him, but he raised the shovel defensively as he stepped into the building. After being outside, his eyes were unustomed to the gloom, and it was hard to see through the shadows.


    Over to his right, past the dark shape of the dinner table, he saw the struggling low mes in the firece. Taking another step inside, he frantically scanned the shadows. Oh, gods. Was that a womans arm he saw on the ground through the pantry door? Usually Dalins home smelled of herbs and spices, but now he thought he smelled the iron scent of blood. Oh gods. He didnt know what hed do if his family was hurt. They were all he had!


    Letting his improvised weapon drop slightly, Dalin rushed over to the pantry to help his wife. That was when something dark and low to the ground leapt out from the shadows at him. Dalin instinctively tried to bat it away with his shovel, but it was too fast. The old farmer screamed as ws tore into his throat. Pain wracked his body and then everything went dark.

 Twists and Turns 1

    Twists and Turns 1


    Spring came to Ironbreak on warm winds that swiftly began melting away at all the ice and snow. Soon, the green of growing nts once again appeared, and the air became full of the sound of chirping birds that had suddenly returned after their long absence. Their singing made everything seem fresh and full of new energy.


    cknail wasted no time. There was still a lot of melting mounds of snow left on the wet ground, but that didnt mean there wasnt work for his minions to do. Atst, winter wasing to an end, and the next phase of his bloody n for vengeance could begin.


    The hobgoblin chieftain had been waiting a long time for theing of spring. Months. Once the boggarts were dealt with, there wasnt much that had needed his direct supervision, and even he could only sleep and whine about the weather so much.


    Despite cknails fears that the harsh cold of winter would wear his tribe down, Ironbreak had prospered instead. The food stores and hunters had provided enough food for everyone important, and despite the snow, the goblins had been able to scrounge up their own food most the time. They could eat almost anything, including tree bark and the bugs that hibernated in it. There was never a shortage of bark, thanks to the ongoing logging operation. The trogs had also managed to figure out how to build underground mushroom farms, which were producing some food, although not a lot. Mushroom farming was tricky and they only seemed to like a few caves that had just the right level of heat and humidity.


    While the living conditions in Ironbreak were well below that of most human viges, none of the goblins or hobgoblinsined. One, they knew cknail wouldnt care about their petty problems, and two, they were used to much worse. A solid roof over their heads and a warm fire were unheard of luxuries to most of them. As cknail feasted and napped in his mansion, the thought of how much hed improved the life of his minions filled him with smug satisfaction. He was the greatest leader ever. His ungrateful minions really should thank him more for everything hed done for them.


    After the snow melt, the first order cknail gave was for all his hobgoblins to emerge from their lodges, huts, and holes to be counted. He needed to know how many of them there were now. It had been impossible to count them all during winter. Hed tried to send some minions around to do it, but theyd all lost count after the first few homes. Apparently, everyone needed to be gathered in one spot for it to be done right. Counting and goblins didnt go together well.


    However, once everyone was assembled in the training yard, a rough estimate of Ironbreaks hobgoblin poption was quickly reached. It seemed there were now over seven hundred of them in the settlement. This number took cknail by surprise. It was much higher than hed thought it would be, since hes sent so many hobgoblins to other camps before winter had set in and others had died in the battle with the boggarts. Had some of the hobs from outside snuck back in?


    No, after talking to his lieutenants, that didnt seem to be the case. All the new hobgoblins were simply local goblins that had transformed over the winter. Despite the harsh conditions, many of them had apparently been snug and fat enough to feelfortable. Obviously, cknail needed to work the little pests harder.


    Still, he couldntin about having more hobgoblin minions. Hed been expecting to have to build up his forces over the spring once everything in Ironbreak was repaired and restocked. The mud from all the melting snow was a real problem. Luckily, Ironbreak had been built on high ground with a lot of firm stone, but there were still areas where water was pooling and needed to be drained. Some of the huts were also looking a bit saggy and had to be repaired before they fell over.


    There was also more good news. The workshops had been very productive over the winter. Load after load of ore and charcoal had gone in, and the workers had used those materials to make thousands of tools and weapons. cknail had enough spears and arrows to equip all his troops in Ironbreak, although there was still plenty of need for more, especially since he had other minions in other camps that would need to be equipped.


    Thus, after the inventory wasplete, cknail began sending out orders and messengers to his other camps. All through the winter, the only ce hed regrly gotten word from had been Shelter. Everywhere else could have been wiped off the face of the earth for all he knew. He needed status reports, and soon it would be time to withdraw all unnecessary minions back to Ironbreak so that cknail could muster his army and strike at his enemies. Hitting hard and fast while his foes were unprepared had always worked well for cknail before, so he intended to move quickly.


    As the ground dried up over the next few days, and repairs proceeded on Ironbreak, messengers began returning from the closer ces cknail sent them. The hobgoblin from Herscrest was among the first to return, although he didnt have all that much to report. Ilisti was still in charge, and nothing too dramatic had happened in his city. Theyd had a difficult winter, although there had been little starvation thanks to the hobgoblin hunters that cknail had lent them. Ilisti had sent his thanks but had no ns to move anytime soon. He was preupied with ruling over his new people. That was fine with cknail. He wouldnt need Ilistis help untilter.


    News from all the small settlements cknail had ordered set up out in the forest soon followed. Although one or two of them had meet some unexpected disaster  such as an attack by a troll or starvation  most of them had prospered. The settlements had expanded as new huts went up, and dozens of new hobgoblins had transformed over the winter. The fishing vige next to the river had actually managed to somehow double in size since the first snow fall. cknail was pleasantly surprised, even though he had no real n for the settlements from here on. Well, he was going to have to do something with them. He couldnt just leave them unsupervised. So much work


    It took a few more days for the messenger from the forward base in the south to return. The reports from there were much the same as from everywhere else. There had had been no real developments over thest few months, although quite a few goblins had transformed there too. It seemed like cknails winter had been by far the most eventful. Everyone else had been cking off while hed been fighting an underground war and building up an army. Stupid minions. They seriously needed to show some initiative. Obviously, they werent being yelled at enough.


    Once he was done receiving all the reports, cknail sent out some new orders. All the new hobgoblins from the settlements were toe to Ironbreak for training, and Beardy was ordered to send out rangers to scout the nearby roads and viges for any sign of Werrick. cknail needed a target. The warm winds that blew through Ironbreak had awoken his long-buried passions. His bones ached for action and vengeance, pushing him to hurry his preparations.


    A few more days of work by cknails minions got most of Ironbreak repaired, dried out, and cleaned up. That meant it was time for them to get ready to move. cknails strategy depended on him moving before his human foe was ready, so the hobgoblin chieftain quickly began mustering his forces and assembling his army.


    Not all of the hobgoblins were soldiers and many of the new ones werent trained properly, but that still left cknail with a sizeable force. He could afford to bring over six hundred hobgoblins South, where he would get further reinforcements from the forward base and the hobgoblins stationed there. He also had over a hundred human minions he could call up, mostly former bandits hed recruited and kept at the forward base.


    There was a lot of work that needed done before cknails army was ready to move though. The hobgoblins needed to be organized into squads and given a refresher on marching. There was also the problem of equipping them all and gathering up enough supplies for a march. cknails army was too big to depend on hunting and scavenging for food, and they needed to move quickly. Thankfully, this was something cknail had nned for. After the defeat of the boggarts, hed put Ferrar in charge of gathering up wagons and making some new ones as well. With help from some craftsman from Shelter, Ferrar had gotten the job done. It had required the making of some newrge saws to cut the lumber, and the results werent pretty, but hed eventually gotten the carpentry figured out. It wasnt like theyd been short on time,bor, or wood.


    Thus, cknail now had two dozen wagons that could carry supplies and enough bristleback boars to pull them. The road to the forward base wasnt quiteplete, but they could carry the wagons over the rough patches. That was what minions were for. Some of them werent good for much else.


    Ferrar had some ns to build a proper sawmill now that Ironbreak had a demand for cut lumber, but it wasnt going to happen anytime soon. He wasnt sure what he was going to use to power the mill since the nearby creek wasntrge enough anding up with a design was proving difficult. Ferrar had mentioned possibly using some sort of furnace to power the saw, which made cknail d he was leaving soon and wouldnt have to go anywhere near a contraption like that. Strapping some moving des to one of Imps furnaces sounded like a terrible idea, they still asionally exploded for one thing.


    Before leaving for the South, cknail paid a visit to Shelter. There were people there he had to talk to.


    Aye, sure. We will help your fellows out with your spring nting, Tannin reassured cknail aftering to meet him at the towns gate. Its the least we could do, and probably in our best interest. If were going to be living beside a tribe of hobgoblins, better they be well fed.


    Yep, thats true. Hobgoblins are easier to deal with when theyre not hungry, cknail replied. Tannin could be very practical for a human. cknails ability to keep the good fooding was one of the most important reasons so many hobgoblins listened to him.


    cknails minions had nted some cropsst year, but this year he wanted a lot more sown. There was plenty of room around Ironbreak, since theyd cut down so much of the forest for fuel and construction materials. He also wanted it done right this time. Last year the seeds had been scattered around somewhat haphazardly, instead of in neat rows like the humans used. If cknails army spent a lot of time fighting down south, they wouldnt be able to stock up food for the winter, so Ironbreak would have to prepare food for them.


    As he was walking back to Ironbreak, cknail sighed. Ugh, there was so much that needed done, and so much had changed since Herads death. He was just a simple hobgoblin, sort of. Why had he taken responsibility for so many hobgoblins, a small city, and a not so small portion of the North? Really, his wants were simple: a full stomach, to be the boss of everyone as he so rightly deserved, and to kill Werrick and make a ne from his teeth. Hmmm, perhaps hed also make a pair of pants out of the mans skin. cknail smiled as several interesting ideas shed through his thoughts, but he eventually discarded them. Humans, you make a lot of useful things out of their corpses, but that tended to upset them even when you usedplete strangers. cknail and most hobgoblins didnt care about such things. As long as it didnt inconvenience him, he didnt what you did with dead hobgoblins or their skin.


    It was fast approaching supper time when cknail got back to Ironbreak, so he decided to throw a feast. Tomorrow, hed be leading an army south, so having a celebration before the long march made sense. Besides, he was hungry and felt like rewarding himself for all his hard work. Leadership was a heavy burden. Thus, cknail went to find Gob and get his minions working. The feast wasnt going to make itself.


    Thankfully, there was enough food in therder. Hunters had begun bringing in a lot recently, and the high water level was making the caves below humid. This was in turn helping the underground mushroom farms grow. Rabbit and mushroom stew was both filling and delicious, as long as you used the non-poisonous mushrooms, so cknail got his minions cooking. He also had some deer brought out to be roasted slowly over the fire on a spit, because it wasnt a real feast with only one dish, and they were very low on vegetables and roots.


    Soon, the goblin settlement was a flurry of activity as everyone prepared for the feast. A hearty aroma filled the air as ingredients were dumped into boiling cauldrons and the prepared deer carcasses were roasted above zing firepits. Guards had to be posted to keep all the hungry goblins from snatching bits of food before it was done.


    cknail wandered from fire to fire as he checked on all the food and made sure the cooks were doing their jobs properly. This required a lot taste testing, but that was fine with him.


    When the food was done, instead of withdrawing to his mansion, cknail decided to eat outside with everyone else. It was good for him to mingle with his minions asionally. That way they knew who the boss was, and he could keep an eye on all the suspicious ones. There were a lot of suspicious hobgoblins. Many of them were new and cknail hadnt had a chance to beat them up in a sparring match yet. Finding the time was difficult because there was so many of them, so he couldnt be sure how loyal they really were. Probably not very. They were hobgoblins after all.


    As cknail was serving himself the first bowl of stew, as was his right as leader, Herah wandered over to his side and grabbed his arm.


    Get me a bowl too, she asked him.


    cknail eyed her skeptically. Why dont you get your own? He was the boss here. It wasnt his job to get other people food.


    Herah let out an annoyed huff but then filled her own bowl. Together, the pair of hobgoblins then wandered over to a table that was well lit by a nearby firepit. All the other hobgoblins quickly got out of their way.


    As they ate, Herah scooted up next to cknail and pressed her body up against his. This pleased cknail. Herah had a nice body. It was soft in all the right ces, and her nose wasnt bad looking either. It did have the same sharp majestic shape of cknails own, but it was cute.


    The two hobgolbins werent left alone for very long. After cknail had taken a few bites of food, Khita appeared out of nowhere and walked over. The hobgoblin chieftain almost choked on his food when he saw her. Why was she here?


    Meanwhile, Herah got up and gave Khita a quick hug. cknail frowned. Since when were hobgoblins hugging people? That shouldnt be a thing. It was unnatural, and one of the least hobgoblin-like things imaginable.


    Hey! Wow, that stew smells great, the redhead announced as she leaned over cknails bowl.


    What are you doing here? cknail asked the annoying girl. He hadnt told anyone in Shelter about the feast.


    Khita just grinned. I got bored in Shelter, and I was thinking that youd be doing something fun like this. Really youre very predictable. Youll take any excuse to celebrate and stuff your face.


    cknail sighed. Well, at least she wasnt trying to hug him. Then hed have to stab her on general principles. I have guards and stuff, just so people cant sneak in without me knowing about it.


    Those guys? They all know me. Im like your best friend, so they just let mee and go whenever I want.


    That didnt sound right to cknail. He wasnt exactly sure what a best friend was, but he was fairly sure Khita wasnt his.


    Unsurprisingly, Khita continued talking. Well, most of them know me. I did have to punch out one stupid hobgoblin on my way in.


    Whatever, cknail replied as he concentrated on eating his food and tried to ignore Khita and Herah as they started gossiping.


    It didnt take him long to finish up his first bowl, and before he could get up to fetch another, a hobgoblin brought him over a new one. Unfortunately, the hobgoblin had been passed the bowl by Crow  who was now watching from the shadows over to cknails left  so this was probably another assassination attempt. That was too bad, the stew smelled great. It had a tangier smell than cknails first bowl, which was probably caused by the poison.


    Putting the bowl down, cknail dismissed the hobgoblin that had given it to him and called for Crow toe over. Crow flinched in surprise, before reluctantlying out of hiding and walking over to cknail.


    Oh, hello. Did you want something, boss?


    cknail pushed the bowl towards the nervous hobgoblin. Eat this.


    Er, why? Crow asked as he stared at the bowl like it was a venomous snake.


    cknail grinned in a way that didnt reach his eyes. Im the boss. I dont need a reason. Eat it.


    Ever so slowly, the hobgoblin did as he was told. As cknail watched intently, he scooped up a spoonful of stew and put it in his mouth. He then swallowed.


    Yum. So good, Crow said he put the bowl down. His act wasnt very convincing. He was clearly very worried about something.


    Eat more, cknail told him.


    Crow grimaced as he raised his spoon again, but then his stomach grumbled. It was a loud bubbling sound, that almost made cknail wince in sympathy. Crow then stumbled as his face went pale.


    I need to shit, Crow suddenly squeaked as he trembled in pain.


    Fine, dont do it here. People are eating, cknail replied with a scowl of disgust and a dismissive wave.


    Immediately, Crow dashed away in an unsteady manner. cknail snickered in amusement as he watched. He hoped his treacherous minion didnt die. That would be a tragic waste of a very amusing hobgoblin.

 Twists and Turns 2

    Twists and Turns 2


    After the feast was over, cknail nned on going to bed. First, he had to deal with Khita though. The young redhead had fallen unconscious after eating severalrge bowls of stew. The fool had stuffed herself until shed passed out. That, or some of the mushrooms in the stew had reacted differently when eaten by a humans Theyd never actually been tested on humans.


    Anyway, Khita was still breathing and didnt seem sick, so cknail picked her up off the ground and carried her to a spare room in his home, before throwing her on the bed. If he left her outside, someone useful might trip over her and hurt themselves, which would inconvenience him.


    That done, cknail took Herah back to his own room and had some fun before falling asleep next to her. By this point, he was fairly sure she wasnt going to kill him in his sleep, even if he slept with a hidden dagger under his pillow just in case. Hed also faked sleep a few times, but hed quickly stopped because it was to much work. Sex made him sleepy and there were worse ways to die.


    The next morning, cknail woke up and briefly noted that no one had killed him in his sleep. Good, that meant it was time to march. The spring offensive couldnt wait any longer. Before the sun hadpletely risen, cknail got out of bed and began screaming for everyone to get up and get ready to move. He had a loud voice, so soon hobgoblins were streaming out of their longhouses and forming up into their squads at the training ground. Anyone moving too slowly got yelled at particrly loudly until they picked up their pace.


    Gob arrived quickly, so cknail put him in charge of making sure every squad was ready to move. The fat hobgoblin Rolly, who was usually in charge of therder and supplies, checked on the wagons and made sure the army supplies were in order. Imp also eventually showed up. cknail wanted him along on the expedition because he was best at using the mage staff and could do things other mages couldnt. The mage didnt want to leave his workshop and experiments, but cknail didnt give him a choice.


    Soon, everything was ready, and the army began to march out of Ironbreak and toward Shelter. cknail took the lead while Gob hadmand of the back. Ferrar and Rolly both stayed behind to run things while cknail was gone. Neither of them were warriors, but they shouldnt be doing too much fighting. There was no sign of the boggarts in cknails territory, and all the hostile humans lived far away.


    After some discussion, it was decided that Grey would remain behind. The lurkers sensitive eyes made it difficult for him to travel above ground during the day, and he was needed to supervise the trogs in the mine. Also, he specialized at scouting and fighting underground, which cknail wasnt expecting to do. His target was Werrick, not the boggarts.


    Unfortunately, Khita came along, if only so that cknail could keep an eye on her. He shuddered to think about all the trouble shed cause if she was left alone in Ironbreak. Herah pulled the redhead out of bed and they both took up position behind cknail as the army moved. cknail also made sure Crow came along for simr reasons. The treacherous hobgoblin had survived his food poisoning, so cknail didnt want to leave him unsupervised among the new hobgoblins in Ironbreak, lest he spread his own disloyalty. Plus, he was amusing, and it was going to be a long march.


    The force of hobgoblins moved quickly over the road theyd built as they approached Shelter. The forest was still around them. Although the Green was full of terrors, few of them wanted anything to do with a hobgoblin army. The heavy thump of footsteps drowned out all the natural sounds of the forest.


    There was plenty to see though. The forest wasing alive as thest touch of winter faded. There were clusters of bright evergreens, but most the trees were covered in small green leaves that had just budded. This gave the scenery a fresh and vibrant look that put a spring in cknails step.


    Geralhd and about two dozen other men met cknail outside of Shelter. Most of them were former members of Herads band, but others were vigers or refugees that had decided to join cknails fight. Some of them wanted to defend their new homes, while others simply wanted to win some loot, and a few had been sent along to observe what cknail was doing by interested parties.


    So, once again were heading South, where war awaits us, with all its glory and all its terrors, Geralhd observed stoically as the humans joined the procession.


    Ill be doing most the fighting, cknail reassured him. You just need to talk to other humans for me. Youre good at that.


    Geralhd grinned proudly. I do have a certain way with words. People have frequently remarked on the eloquence of my tongue.


    cknail nodded politely and moved on.


    Once everyone was in ce, the army quickly began marching to their next destination, the forward base. This journey took a little longer. Not only was it further away, but the road wasntplete yet. This meant the troops had to march over tight muddy paths in some ces and push the wagons along. Thus, it took four days for cknail to reach the forward base, and even then, he was forced to leave some of the wagons behind with guards. It would be another few days until they caught up.


    As cknail was ordering his troops to line up at the entrance to the forward base, which was surrounded by a wooden stake wall, Beardy came out to meet him. No wait. Hed changed his name to Ralphi. cknail sometimes forgot that, since it was such a stupid name. Beardy was far superior. He should have kept that name.


    So, youre finally here, Ralphi huffed. Took you long enough. Watching over this ce for you was a chore and a half, let me tell you.


    You did a good job, cknail replied with a happy nod. Hed been away for several months and the ce hadnt burned down. That was impressive.


    Damn right I did. Keeping all these hobgoblins and bandits from dying or killing each other over the winter wasnt easy. There were several near riots caused by feuding hobs, and one green bastard tried to dere himself chief. I had to put him down personally.


    That much trouble wasnt unexpected. Not only had cknail kept two hundred hobgoblins in the forward base over the winter, but it was also where most the human bandits hed collected had stayed as well. There were about two hundred of them, and they were mostly the remains of bandit bands whod gone against Werrick and lost.


    Grinning, Khita walked over to join the conversation. Dont worry. Ill take some of that work out of your hands. Ill be leading my own men now that Im here.


    This earned her a pair of scowls. The young redhead had spent some timest year recruiting and assembling her own group of bandits. She hadnt wintered in at the forward base with them though. Instead, shed followed cknail north, because it was far less boring there and she had a short attention span.


    Knock yourself out, Ralphi replied with a shake of his head. Dont expect any help from me though. Anyone dumb enough to follow you deserves whatsing to them.


    Therge bearded man then turned to cknail. Your messages were a littlecking in details, but from the look of your troops, Im guessing you want to go on the attack.


    Yes, have you gotten any new information since thest message you sent me? cknail asked him. They were both ignoring Khita now, who was pouting.


    Ralpi shrugged. Some. Ive been patrolling the roads to collect tolls, and even this early in the season, weve had a few groups of refugees and merchants. People are saying its a dark time and ming some attacks and disappearances on demons. Nothing too unusual though. These days viges are always getting ransacked by one band or another.


    What about Werrick?


    No new word of him. Hes out there, but he seems to be keeping his distance. What are you nning?


    Im going to kill him, cknail replied deadpan.


    Ralphi snorted rudely. Even you n more thoroughly than that. Give me details.


    Im going to attack him before he is ready for me. My troops will rampage across the North and kill every one of his men we find.


    And when he counterattacks? Youll be spread out and weak when his hammeres down.


    Then Ill retreat. I dont need to hold anything but this base, and while he is reconquering everything, Ill be harassing him and building up my forces. The more I take, the longer it will take for him to get here.


    Ralphi looked thoughtful as he scratched his nose. Huh, its not a bad n. I wouldnt want to try it with regr troops. Your hobgoblins on the other hand, theyll be hard to pin down. They can flee into the woods and survive to regroup.


    And unlike some dumb humans, they will always run from hard fights unless Im there tomand them, cknail added.


    Hmm, we should probably head east quickly then, although Im not sure if we should use hobgoblins or humans to hold viges. Neither of them are well behaved.


    I will solve that problemter, cknail replied as he walked past Ralphi into the forward base.


    The base had been built over the ruins of an old vige that had been swallowed by the forest years ago. Thus, a few of the buildings were repaired vige huts, but most of them were newly constructed log buildings that served as barracks for the troops stationed there.


    Now that hed arrived, cknail went to get something to eat. The upants of the base collected dues from caravans, so there was undoubtedly some good human food hidden away somewhere, and as the leader, it was rightfully his.


    After sniffing around and finding some cheese and pickles, cknail allowed Gob to bring some leadership matters to his attention. Most importantly, his minions needed to set up camp. There wasnt room for everyone inside, and they werent going to move out right away. His minions deserved a rest, outside, while he slept in a proper hut. There was one reserved for him, since he was the leader.


    The next morning, while all the troops were getting ready to head out, cknail called all his lieutenants to a meeting. Gob, Khita, Ralphi, and Geralhd were quick to arrive.


    We will hit our first target, the vige in the east, and then I will decide on our next move. What I choose depends on what Werricks men are doing, but Ill probably split the army up.


    Are you talking about the vige of Aldhara? Ralphi asked.


    Sure, that one, cknail replied. What did that name even mean? Humans were terrible at naming things.


    Im ready to go, Khita added happily. My men look forward to wetting their des on Werricks scum!


    Ralphi rolled his eyes. I seriously doubt that. More likely they n on hanging back until they see a chance to do some looting.


    Well, Ill drive them forward into the teeth of the enemy. Cowards have no ce in my elite.


    cknail couldnt stop himself from letting out a groan. Elite?


    Of course! Im a Vessel after all, and I only ept the best.


    You ept anyone who will put up with your stupidity, cknail told her. He knew exactly the sort of people Khita had recruited.


    Anyone who works under me is an elite. Youll see how sessful my forces are after we split up and I get my ownmand.


    Thats not going to happen!


    After a bit more arguing, the meeting was called to an end. Khita refused to give up the idea of her ownmand, so cknail let it go. It didnt matter what she thought. He wasnt going to put her in charge of anything. That wasnt going to happen.


    With the meeting over, the lieutenants went back to their troops and begin rying orders. Soon, the now reinforced army was marching away from the forward base. It didnt take them long to get out of the forest and reach the old human-built road. Once on there, their speed picked up considerably. cknail took up position at the very front with Herah and his bodyguards. There he could promptly deal with any problems or situations that came up. He also sent patrols ahead to screen their way and divert any caravans travelling toward them. He didnt want anyone getting a good look at his army or seeing where it was going. Word of what they saw would eventually get back to Werrick.


    There were several nearby small viges thaty on the road. However, these settlements had already been subjugated by Ralphi and cknailst year, so cknail led his army right past them. His target was the walled town of Aldhara, which was the closest ce controlled by Werrick. The word passed on by merchants was that Werrick had left a small garrison of his own troops there. Unfortunately, it wasnt that close and would take a few days to reach.


    When the day began to darken, and cknail called for his army toe to a halt, he didnt bother trying to order them off the road. His chosen spot had a small clearing around some hills off to one side, but he had most his troops set up camp right on the road. cknail wasnt too worried about moving undetected and his force was a little too big to easily hide in the forest anyway.


    The night was uneventful and restful. After setting up the cooking fires, they had ate supper under the quickly darkening sky while the spring wind blew through the trees. Overhead, the night sky was dotted by clouds, but the light of the moon and stars shone through without a problem most the time. As the leader, cknail had a nket and tent, although many of the hobgoblins and even some of the humans were forced to share or gopletely without a tent and sleep out under the stars. cknail was d he was better than them.


    It took three more days of travelling before they closed in on their destination. By then they were far away from any of the roads that cknails minions patrolled or even kept watch over. That was when one of the scouts cknail had sent up ahead came back with news that theyd found the town of Aldhara.


    cknail listened to the scouts report and description of the town and then began giving out orders. As his strung-out army began reforming into tighter lines, he sent squads of hobgoblins to range ahead and surround the town. He didnt want anyone escaping form the town and getting word to Werrick. When you were hunting prey, it was important to make sure they didnt know you wereing.


    When his army was ready to move again, cknail had them march toward the town at a brisk pace, so that theyd get as little warning as possible. The humans and hobgoblins were tired, but also eager to finally reach their destination.


    The ranks of marching warriors filled the breadth of the road. Within minutes, they went around a bend and the walls of the town appeared before them. They were simple wooden walls like most remote northern viges had, but in Aldharas case they actually had a strong looking stone gatehouse with an arch above the wooden doors.


    Move faster. I want a quick march. Keep up with me! cknail yelled as he raised his weapon and picked up his speed.


    Immediately, his forces lurched forward as they headed straight for the open gate. There was a bloodthirsty yell from the hobgoblins. It was unlikely theyd make it before the gates were closed, but cknail might get lucky. The enemy had no reason to expect an attack.


    Unfortunately, as cknails forces quickly moved to within a hundred feet of the gate, it swung shut with a muted boom and creak of wood. Grunting in displeasure, cknail yelled for his minions to slow their advance. There was no point in tiring themselves out now.


    From the other side of the gate, cknail could hear lots of men shouting. It seemed like there really was a garrison in this town and that they were ready for action.


    Well, Im going to have to do this the hard way, cknail remarked as he studied the sturdy structure his minions were advancing toward. At least he was finally going to get a proper fight. It had been quite a while since cknail had enjoyed a chance to let his de tear into human flesh, and he hated everyone who worked for Werrick ever so much for what theyd taken from him. The hobgoblin shivered in anticipation of the fight.

 Twists and Turns 3

    Twists and Turns 3


    "We should give our foes a chance to surrender, Geralhd said as walked over to cknail. There is no point in starting a needless fight if there is a chance of avoiding bloodshed.


    I like bloodshed, a lot, cknail replied as he nced at the man. Why did Geralhd feel the need to ruin this for him?


    cknails forces had just arrived in front of the walled town of Aldhara. Ity just beyond the eastern edge of cknails territory, and it had been garrisoned by a group of Werricks men. The road behind cknail was packed with his hobgoblin and human troops. They were waiting for orders and the atmosphere was heavy with the anticipation that came before a battle.


    Geralhd grimaced. Unless they have a far more fighters manning those walls than it appears, they stand no chance of victory. We should give them an opportunity to prevent a ughter.


    cknail rolled his eyes. Why? I like ughter and theyre the enemy. I dont want them to live. They work for Werrick. Killing them is the entire point!


    Its normal civilized behavior for humans. Having mercy and restraint is important or wed be killing each other constantly.


    cknail frowned and thought back to all the battles hed been a part of. No, thats not true at all. Herad didnt let people surrender and no one ever really offered it to her.


    Geralhd hesitated, but before he coulde up with a reply, a messenger arrived. He was one of the hobgoblins cknail had sent out into the forest to surround the town and watch it.


    Its all quiet in the trees, boss. The stupid humans have no scouts out, just watchers on the walls. The walls look strong though. Theyve been all fixed up recently and all holes in them have been plugged so that we cant sneak through. Climbing in unseen would also be hard.


    After listening to the report, cknail sighed. Hed been hoping there would be a way to sneak in. With a small force at his back, he could probably cut his way to the gate and open it, and he liked being sneaky and clever. Now it seemed like he would have to assault the gate. He could build a ram and batter it open, but sting it open with magic would probably be easier. Magic was just so convenient.


    As cknail thought his options over, Geralhd took the opportunity to speak up. See. There is no easy way to take the town, and you dont want to lose minions if its not necessary. That would weaken you before you face Werrick again. Give me a chance to ask them toy down their arms.


    Fine. Whatever! Make it quick, cknail told him. There would other opportunities to kill Werricks men.


    With a pleased nod, Geralhd immediately began walking down the road toward the gate. When he was close enough to easily be heard, he began yelling. Heil the town! Ivee brining a peaceful proposition.


    Weve no interest in talking to any man in service to evil beasts, someone yelled back a momentter.


    This response seemed to startle Geralhd, because he froze. It took him a several seconds toe up with a reply, which was unusual for him. Then you should have no problem talking to me. Ivee in peace and good faith to prevent unnecessary violence.


    We have nothing to say to you. You wont be getting us to lower our guards while that host of inhuman creatures lurks out there. Were not fools. The second we drop out weapons theyll be on us like hignd wolves on sheep. The cknail has a reputation.


    Indeed he does, one of mercy and honoring his word. He has no interest in murder, and many of the men you see in his army were once his enemies. And I say, anyone under the employ of a brigand such as the Wolf has little ground to stand on there. He is not known for his mercy.


    At least he is human. Besides, betraying Werrick is a sure way to earn a hard death. Wed rather take our chances with a battle. At least then wed die on our feet, like men.


    Come now. You must be able to see the force assembled against you. It is mighty, and you are far outnumbered. Surrender, there is no shame in it. Needless battle would serve no purpose but to feed the crows, Geralhd yelled. He was starting to sound rather exasperated.


    Weve rallied the locals and every good human is worth three little hobgoblins. We dont fear little green savages.


    cknail snorted. Stupid humans. Under favorable conditions, a human might be worth one and a half hobgoblins. However, not only did cknail have more than that, but he wasnt going to give them that kind of fight. He wasnt stupid enough to go head to head with them, where humans could use their greater weight and muscle against hobgoblins. Then there was cknails own presence. He was worth a good hundred humans anyway!


    Growing frustrated, Gehd tried for several more minutes to convince the enemy to surrender. They eventually grew tired of his nonsense though.


    Still your tongue already. We wont be surrendering anything to that stupid green monster that you call master! the enemy leader yelled.


    This annoyed cknail. As a mutant he might sort of be a monster, but he definitely wasnt stupid, and he didnt appreciate being called that by some humans. With their bizarre instincts, it was amazing most humans survived to adulthood.


    cknail wasnt too annoyed though. There was easy way prove his great intellect and show the enemy who was smarter. Hed simply ughter the fools. Theyd really look dumb then, when they were corpses.


    Grinning, cknail walked up behind Geralhd and put a hand on his shoulder. You tried. Now, its my turn.


    Geralhd sighed in disappointment as he looked back at cknail. What are you going to do?


    Im going to attack them, cknail replied as he turned to begin barking orders at his troops. He already had a n, a great one. They were constantly popping into his head, because he was a genius.


    It didnt take long for cknail to get things moving. Soon, he was leading arge squad of his toughest warriors straight for the gate while the rest of his army followed behind in support. Herah was right beside him, leading his bodyguard, while Imp was in the center of the group. All the hobgoblins were grinning in anticipation of an easy fight. There were few things they liked better than the chance to shed some human blood. For most of them, there was no malice involved; humans and other prey were just fun to torment and kill. It was instinct. How would they react when the hobgoblins broke in to the town? cknail licked his lips. Chasing them as they ran around screaming would very amusing.


    As he marched forward, cknail shook his head to clear his thoughts. He needed to focus on the task at hand. He wasnt far from the gate now.


    A few scattered arrows flew out from behind the wall, but none of themnded anywhere near cknail, so he ignored them and turned to Imp. Open the gate.


    The hobgoblin mage nodded and raised his mechanical staff. Around him, the other hobgoblins came to a stop. There were more subtle ways of getting into the town, but cknail didnt feel like waiting. The humans here had insulted him and had to be shown the error of their ways. He still wanted the town intact, but gates could be repaired.


    As cknail and the warriors watched, a rippling st of transparent power shot out of Imps staff. It tore through the air before hitting the center of the towns gate. There was a loud boom and the air shuddered as the magic exploded. The gates shook under the power of the explosion and then the wood bent and splintered. With a loud crack, the gate on the right came loose and partially copsed, creating a gap in the center of the doorway that was wide enough for two people to walk through.


    I can hit it again, Imp offered.


    No, thats fine, cknail replied as he motioned his troops forward and began running. The wooden doors looked wrecked and jammed now. Further sts might widen the gap, but they might also do nothing or even make it smaller, and Imp didnt have unlimited mana crystals to power his staff.


    Picking up speed, cknail charged straight for the gate. The enemy on the other side of it quickly began to react as well. Several armed men who looked like Werricks troops took up position to block his entrance. cknail just licked his lips and drew his de from its sheathe. It came free with an eager sounding hiss that was music to the hobgoblins ears.


    The sight of cknail barreling toward them made the troops guarding the hole in the gate nch. He was noticeably taller than a normal hobgoblin, even more than most humans, and his antler-like horns made him look taller still. His second transformation had also made cknail bulkier, with thicker limbs and muscles, and this was also emphasized by his ck leather armor. All in all, there was no way the humans could mistake cknail for an average hobgoblin.


    Fear was obvious on the human guards faces but cknail could also sense it using his magic, and he could use that. Gathering up his own power from his core, cknail fed the power up into his head and then sent it out. The magic washed forth like a wave, igniting the fear within the enemy and twisting it into numbing terror.


    There were three men blocking cknails way into the town, and all three of them stumbled back as he fell upon them. Without mercy, cknail lunged through the hole in the gate and shed at the closest man. His de sliced through the air with stunning speed and tore into the mans arm. The blow almost cut the limb right off, and the man screamed in pain as cknail grabbed his shoulder and tossed him aside so he could get at his next target. The invigorating heat of magic was still rising up from cknails core, but now it was feeding his muscles and trickling into his blood.


    The guard to cknails left overcame his terror and shed at cknail with a clumsy overhead swing. cknail just snorted dismissively as he spun his de around and stabbed the man in the chest. He then kicked the man away and tugged his sword free.


    Thest nearby guard turned to run, so cknail grabbed his cor, pulled him close, and then slit his throat with a flick of his de. As his victim copsed, cknail studied his new surroundings. He was on the other side of the gate now. The towny before him, and there were lots more armed humans around, at least two dozen.


    However, instead of retreating, cknail just grinned and began stomping forward. Behind him, hobgoblins began pushing through the gap in the gate and entering the town. For several moments, Werricks men stared at cknail in shock. In response, cknail burned his power. The fear inciting magic boiled off him like an invisible cloud and visibly mmed into the humans. They flinched or stumbled back.


    Their weakness thrilled cknail, sending shivers down his spine. Practically purring, he threw himself at the biggest clump of men andshed out with his long de. His magically enhanced blows crashed through defenses and hacked through flesh with ease, sending blood flying in every direction. Pain filled screams filled the air.


    Instead of rallying and trying to counterattack, the enemy hesitated. This allowed time for more hobgoblins to spill into the town and form a mob of their own. As cknail finished off thest nearby human with a bone crunching stomp to the mans chest, the mob of hobgoblin spearmen threw themselves intobat.


    There were still lots of enemy soldiers around, so cknail spun around and ran over to cover his minions nks as they fought. On his way he cut down two more enemies who tried to stop him.


    More of Werricks troops began to arrive. Desperately, they threw themselves intobat in an attempt to prevent the hobgoblins from spilling into the town. The enemymander had held troops in reserve and stationed guards all along the walls, but now he threw everything he had at cknail.


    It didnt work. cknail crushed every human in his way as he cut his way deeper into the town. Human after human was brutally dispatched by swings of his de, and his minions surged forward in a growing wave of spears and green.


    The scent of blood grew strong as the dead piled up, and cknail began to notice some different looking humans mingled among the others. They were dressed in in clothes instead of leather armor and many of them wielded tools such as axes and pitchforks instead of real weapons. cknail justughed and cut them down regardless. They were even easier to kill.


    Laughing joyfully over the screams, cknail continued to throw himself into the press. However, the enemy ranks quickly began to grow thin, and then they broke. As he stopped to watch, the nearby human began to turn and flee into the town. Some of his nearby minions started to give chase, but cknail stopped them with a yell and told them to stay together. The enemy didnt have anywhere to flee to, except into the Green, so there was no rush. Seizing the gate was the priority anyway.


    Soon, many more of cknails minions had entered through the broken gate, including some humans. So, cknail left a strong force behind to hold it, and then took about a hundred hobgoblins deeper into the town, toward thergest homes in sight. That was where hed find the leaders, or at least the best loot. This was turning into a great day!


    The front door of the biggest house in town was locked, of course. However, it was shut by a simple woodentch, which cknail easily broke by mming the door with his shoulder. He then stepped inside and looked around. It seemed like he was in the right ce. Everything in sight was morevish looking than the contents of an average vigers home, which were usually dirty and dim.


    There was no one in sight, but cknail heard creaks from upstairs, so he followed his nose over to the kitchen and told the minions that had followed him inside to round up the residents and bring them to him.


    After a quick raid of the pantry for anything that smelled tasty, cknail wandered over to a couch in the sitting room and waited. That was when Geralhd hurried in. The young man was out of breath, but he looked relieved to have caught up. cknail offered him some of the worse tasting pie, but the man shook his head and concentrated on catching his breath. His lose.


    As cknail ate, there was a brief scuffle upstairs and some yelling, but nothing major. Soon, his minions dragged everyone in the house in front of him. He studied them as he finished off some blue cheese. There were three adult women, one man, and two children. One of the women was much better dressed than the others, so cknail assumed the other two were servants of some kind. That meant the remaining humans were the leader and his family. They gazed at the hobgoblins with unconcealed terror, even though cknail wasnt doing anything with his magic anymore.


    One of the children was female and the other was male. The female looked to be older than the male, but cknail didnt pay them much attention. They werent important. He also dismissed the two female servants in their in ck dresses.


    Im in charge now. Who are you? cknail asked the town leader. He was a short man with a curly moustache that made cknail want to pull on it. Humans werent supposed to have whiskers like rats.


    The man paled and hesitated before answering. Im I mean, I was the mayor. What are you going to do with me? Please dont kill me. I havent done anything wrong!


    His wife threw him a nasty look, as if annoyed that he hadnt asked about her. She was taller than her husband and had a proud demeanor hecked. The children just hugged one of the maids, like she was the only thing preventing them from drowning. Ha, they were stupid little critters. Amusing though.


    Your people attacked me, cknail pointed out. I even sent someone over to offer you a nice surrender, but you helped Werricks men instead. I think that was wrong.


    The mayor flinched. Those bandits seized this town! They didnt ask me for permission. If some poor fools from here tried to fight you, it wasnt because I told them to do anything.


    cknail nodded. Maybe, but youre still the leader, I should probably kill


    There was loud cough from Geralhd, who until now had stayed in the background. He hurried over to cknails side, leaned down, and began whispering. You shouldnt kill the mayor yet. You dont actually know if he has done anything wrong.


    cknail sighed. Hes the boss, so hes responsible and needs to be punished. Thats how things work. He lost, so he dies and I take over.


    Thats not how it works with humans. Well, not usually. Its quite possible he had nothing to do with the vigers that fought against us. They could have been going against his wishes or been forced to do it by the bandits.


    So? What do you want me do? Hell lie if I ask him anything, cknail pointed out.


    Let me take some men and question the townsfolk. That way Ill be able to figure out what happened. We could even have a trial, which should keep the people cated. If you kill their mayor without justification, they might get angry.


    cknail wasnt sure if he cared if the people here were angry or not. This wasnt Shelter. He didnt need anything from them, only that they stay out of his way. Still, Geralhd seemed to be offering to do all the work. Annoying human nonsense like this was also why hed brought Geralhd along. Hed put a lot of effort into recruiting Geralhd into his force, so he may as well listen to him.


    Fine, do it your way. Ill tell my hobs to let you take charge. You need to find me someone to me for everything though. Someone is guilty. No being annoying and saying the people responsible are already dead or Im killing the mayor.


    Geralhd grimaced but nodded. cknail was satisfied, so as the mayor and his family trembled and watched, he remained sitting on the couch and began finishing off thest bits of food hed taken from the kitchen. The town was his, and he had lots of good food, so any more killing could wait.

 Twists and Turns 4

    Twists and Turns 4


    As his minions took the mayors family away to be questioned by Geralhd, cknail lounged on their couch, which was quitefy and soft. By the time he had finished eating and gotten up, his forces had seizedplete control of the streets of Aldhara. He received reports as the remaining enemies were cornered and cut down, fled into Green, or took shelter inside homes. There was no more serious resistance, so cknail had plenty of time to decide what to do next.


    First, he had the houses that the enemy were hiding in surrounded so that he could deal with themter. If he let his hobs storm inside and start dragging people out, it could get messy quick. None of the vigers were resisting his takeover anymore, and he wanted to keep it that way.


    Second, he sent a few hunting parties off to track down and finish off the enemies that had fled into the forest. That wouldnt be particrly hard for his hobgoblin scouts. Few humans would even see theming in the Green, and even the most aware ones had to sleep sometime. Really, very few of them would have gotten far without being eaten by wildlife even without hobgoblins chasing them.


    Once those two things were done, cknail had his lieutenants join him in the mayors home, which was his now. He liked it, although there was too muchce on the furniture. That could be torn or chewed off easily enough though.


    The half-dozen hobgoblins and humans all easily fit in the houses sitting room. To Gob and Ralphi, he gave orders to handle thest scattered groups of Werricks men. Geralhd already had a job, finding someone for cknail to me for the vigers resistance. That left Khita and Imp. Imp didnt have any interest in anything that wasnt magical and could be ignored, but Khita was another story. cknail only wished he could ignore her.


    Youll stay here with me and Herah, in case something important happens, cknail told the redhead. He actually just wanted to keep her out of the way. She wasnt useful enough to help him with anything important that came up, but she had a knack for getting into trouble when left alone.


    Surprisingly, Khita shook her head. Youll have to do without me. I need to go recruit some more followers before anyone beats me to it. There are several fools that think they could do a better job than me and be one of your lieutenants, and I cant just kill them all. I got to stay ahead of them.


    cknail grunted sourly. Thats nice, but you have to do what I say, since Im the leader.


    You dont even want me for anything, and this is important. How am I supposed to be a great bandit if I dont recruit followers? Im going, Khita said as she stuck out her tongue and then turned to leave.


    cknail scowled at her back. He could order some of his hobs to stop her, but then shed get all whiny and annoying for days. It was better to let her do what she wanted.


    Fine, you can go, he told her as she walked out the door. She didnt look back, which made cknails scowl deepen. Stupid Khita. Everyone else was afraid of him, as was proper. She was just too stupid to know better. How had she survived this long?


    After waiting with Herah for a while, cknail grew bored with scratching the furniture. Thankfully, that was when Geralhd returned. Hed found the people responsible for inciting some of the townsfolk to fight cknail and his minions. Apparently, the ring leader was an innkeeper whod epted coin from the leader of Werricks men in return for promising to whip up a mob to help them fight. Geralhd now had the man under guard, which pleased cknail, and finally motivated him to leave the sitting room.


    Heading outside, cknail went to check on Gob and Ralphi. Before he could move on to the fun stuff, he needed to make sure he hadplete control of the town, so all of Werricks men needed cleaned up. Thankfully, that job was almost done. After cknail had sent them out, Gob and Ralphi had quickly moved to order squads into homes where enemies were hiding. If they resisted or attempted to take hostages, they were cut down, but those that surrendered peacefully were taken captive. Human minions were used, since sending hobgoblins into peoples homes tended to provoke negative reactions.


    When cknail met up with Gob and Ralphi they only had two more houses to deal with, so cknail watched them finish up. It was quick and bloody work. When they were done, cknail gave them a nod of approval and then ordered them to marshal the local poption so that he could talk to them in the town square.


    It took a while for this to happen. The people of Aldhara were reluctant toe out of their homes and gather outside now that cknails forces were in control of the town. cknail had to go get the mayor and have him tell people it was safe, and even then it took a few hours.


    However, a decent size crowd eventually gathered in the town square. They looked nervous and whispered fearfully amongst themselves, but they didnt try to run or riot. Instead, they fell silent and listened as cknail began speaking. Many of them seemed surprised that he could talk, which was amusing. Humans could be so stupid. There was no way they hadnt heard about him by now. He was kind of a big deal.


    After a brief introduction, cknail informed the townsfolk that he was now in charge of the vige but that he wouldnt be killing any of them, except for the innkeeper, who he promptly beheaded for inciting violence against his troops and as a warning to the others. That done, he told the townsfolk to go about their business as usual, exceptrge gatherings were prohibited and hed be taking all their cheese. There was a price to pay for losing a battle. If they didnt want to lose all their cheese, they shouldnt have let Werrick conquer them.


    Still, now that hed gotten rid of the humans who were too stupid to live, cknail nned on generally leaving the others alone. This was mostly because he didnt really need the townsfolk for anything. He was only here because the town had strategic value in his fight against Werrick. Hed burn the ce down, but that would disturb his human allies, who were always looking for reasons to distrust him.


    Things settled down after the crowd dispersed, leaving cknail with the task of finding ces for his troops to set up for the night. There were too many of them for them to all sleep inside, so most had to set up their tents outside, like they had when theyd been marching. cknail slept in the mayors house with Herah of course. He was the leader.


    The next morning, cknail got up early to receive reports from his scouts before calling his lieutenants to another meeting. There were so many meetings involved in war Seizing Aldhara and eliminating the troops there was simply the first step in cknails n. Now that he had a base of operations and knew more about the local situation, it was time to continue the attack. His n depended on a series of lighting fast strikes, so that was what he was going to do.


    ording to his scouts and the locals his minions had interrogated, Werrick only had small forces in the nearby viges and towns. That meant cknail could split his forces and take them out quickly before Werrick even knew what was going on. Of course, each force he sent out would need apetent and dependable leader, which was a problem. cknail had three targets in mind and nned on staying in Aldhara. He also only had two lieutenants he really trusted to lead anything more important than a work crew, Gob and Ralphi. cknail had been nning on sending Geralhd and one of his more trusted hobgoblin warriors to the third town, but Geralhd had apparently managed to trip and hurt his anklest night, so he wanted to stay here.


    Ill go in his ce! Khita suggested eagerly. Ive got more than enough men to take a town or two.


    But do you have the brains cknail mumbled sourly.


    The redhead gave him a look. What?


    Its just one town. I only want the one town taken. Dont go looking for more towns to attack, cknail said with a sigh. Cant you just stay out of trouble and not be so annoying?


    Im a deadly bandit mistress, Im supposed to get into trouble!


    cknail sighed again. He didnt have anyone morepetent to send, and how badly could she really screw up such a simple job? Really, cknail didnt care much if she ended up destroying the vigepletely, as long as it clearly her fault and not his.


    Fine, you can lead the third team, cknail told her.


    Yes! My first conquest! Soon, there will be many more, Khitaughed as she ran off to gather her followers.


    She worries me sometimes, Geralhd remarked.


    Ralphi chuckled. She has always worried me. Something isnt right in that girls head.


    cknail nodded in agreement before giving his other lieutenants some more details about their mission. Khita should have been here too, but shed ran off before anyone could say anything. What a fool.


    Soon, over half of the troops in Aldhara were marching back out onto the road. The sudden reduction in power made cknail slightly nervous, but he had scouts out watching the roads and there had been no sign of any movements from Werrick. He was probably safe.


    When cknails lieutenants were all gone, there wasnt much for him to do in Aldhara, beyond lounge around in the mayors house and eat the townsfolks food. The locals were terrified if him, and after the execution of the innkeeper, they all obeyed his edicts. When an entire day went by without anything interesting happening, cknail seriously considered making up some new, more difficult rules for the townsfolk to follow. It would be amusing to watch them run around and fail, just so he could punish them. Unfortunately, Geralhd managed to convince him that would be a bad idea.


    Thus, the only real productive thing cknail could do was go over reports that his scouts brought in. They didnt tell him much. The roads were clear and there were no signs of enemy troop movements or reconnaissance. There was actually less traffic on them then was usual for this part of the year, just a few merchants and woodsmen.


    This left cknail with a lot of time to worry about things beyond his control. Khitas mission in particr worried him. Who knew what crazy nonsense shed end up doing? Thepleteck of movement from Werrick was also starting to concern him. Hed expected to hear something from the bandit lord by now, but there was simply nothing. cknail began to suspect a vast conspiracy of stupidity was misleading him. Maybe Werrick was nearby, and all his minions were too ipetent to notice. Should he go do some scouting himself?


    Thankfully, word began to arrive from his lieutenants. This distracted cknail enough to prevent him from running out into the Green to search for hidden armies.


    The first message reported that Gob had easily conquered his target and taken out the few bandits Werrick had tasked with guarding it. He was on his way back now. The message from Ralphi was a little more worrying. Apparently, Werricks men had abandoned the vige hed gone to attack. Theyd pulled out right after the snow had melted and gone back east. Apparently, the vige itself had suffered over the winter and was barely worth taking anymore. Ralphis report was a littlecking in details, but he promised to bring more information with him when he got back.


    Khita didnt send a message at all. This worried cknail at first, but then she showed up in person with all her troops.


    Didnt I give you a mission? cknail said as he met her at the town gates.


    And I tried to do it. I simply ran into a small problem along the way, Khita replied with a scowl. When I got to the vige you wanted me to conquer, there was no one there. The whole soggy vige was unupied.


    ail sighed. Hed been worried about this. You cant just kill everyone and pretend it didnt happen.


    Thats not what happened! It really waspletely empty when I got there! The entire ce had been ransacked weeks ago, but there were no bodies in sight. Everyone was just gone. It was emptier than a drunks bottle.


    Humans dont just disappear. They always leave a mess, cknail told her. He was an expert on this.


    Some of your hobs found traces of old boggart tracks, Khita told him.


    Huh, that made more sense. cknail supposed that boggarts could have taken out the vige. Apparently, they were far away enough from Ironbreak that the creatures thought they didnt have to worry about him. Hed have to find some way of teaching them otherwise. This was his territory now, not theirs. Hed conquered it properly. They didnt get toe in and steal his food and humans without a fight.


    Still, ignoring the boggarts, this was a third vige where there had been no sign of Werrick. The Wolf was supposed to have fortified this area, but only Aldhara had contained a proper garrison. There was no way Werrick would think that was enough to hold the entire area and support an attack. cknail was really starting to worry now. It was swiftly bing obvious that there was something going on that he wasnt aware of.


    Ralphi and Gob returned the next day. Ralphi came in first and a disgruntled cknail met him at the gates. The hobgoblin chieftain wanted an immediate report.


    Theres not much to say about Werricks troops, Ralphi exined with a shrug. There were only about thirty of them, and they fled the vige as soon as the roads were clear enough of snow for them to march.


    Why?


    A man on horseback arrived with orders. No one knew exactly what he said to them though.


    Frustrated, cknail scowled. Strange. That doesnt make sense.


    Maybe he guessed you wereing and decided not to leave men around for you to pick off.


    Then why not fortify Aldhara more? That would be the smart thing to do, and Werrick isnt dumb, cknail hissed angrily. There was a n! It had taken him a long time toe up with, and it was supposed to be the best way to deal with Werrick. Had he been tricked?


    Did you see or hear anything strange? cknail asked Ralphi.


    The vigers did mention some disappearances. Mostly of animals, but two people did go missing. They also said they sawrge shapes moving around in the shadows at night, but it was probably nothing, or a hungry bear. These viges in the middle of nowhere get quite superstitious.


    More boggarts, cknail grumbled thoughtfully. Was that the answer?


    Those things? They arent that dangerous. Just pests really.


    cknail gave Ralphi an annoyed look. They can be very dangerous. I chased all the ones around Ironbreak away after I defeated their swarm. That was a tough fight. Here, theyve been free to hunt people though. They must have a nest nearby.


    I guess that makes sense, Ralphi remarked reluctantly. Even wolves will pick off people if they get hungry during the winter.


    Instead of replying, cknail ignored the man and started thinking. From experience, he knew that humans wouldnt believe him if he told them all about his war with the boggarts. For some reason, they always thought he was exaggerating about the size of the boggart swarm and all the weapons it had wielded. They couldnt ept the idea of boggarts using tools or magic. They seemed to think both those things were hard to figure out. They werent. Even goblins could do them if they had someone to copy. Really, humans werent nearly as unique or smart as they liked to think they were.


    Could the boggarts be responsible for Werricks withdrawal from the area next to cknails territory? Had the creatures attacked Werricks men, causing them to retreat somewhere safer? No, that probably wouldnt be enough. cknail hadnt seen any indication that the boggarts here had been a threat to arge group of armed bandits. Hmm, except for the vige that had been wiped out.


    cknail scratched his nose. He needed more information.


    Over the next few days, cknail sent men out to interrogate everyone that passed by nearby and had scouts head east to look for signs of Werricks troops. It took a while for him to begin getting information back, but then a picture quickly began to emerge. Werrick had pulled back and was fortifying his own territory. He seemed to no n to attack cknail at all. There were also countless rumors swirling about boggarts and demons. People were worried.


    Huh, what do we do now? Khita asked. cknail had called a meeting and all his lieutenants had just gone over the scouts reports.


    I have no idea, cknail admitted as he scowled sourly. Hed been sure that Werrick would attack him.


    Isnt this good news? Geralhd asked. It means we have more time to establish ourselves. Thats what we wanted.


    But Werrick knows that too, so why is letting us have time? The Wolf is ruthless, and never just sits around like a pig in the mud. It makes no sense. Its a stupid ass thing to do, and he isnt stupid.


    Geralhd shrugged. Any yet that is exactly what hes doing. We have confirmation from multiple merchants that have dealt with him directly and some refuges that passed through viges he controls out east. There is no sign that he is nning to move.


    Then he knows something that we dont, which I dont like much.


    cknail growled in agreement and clenched a fist. This wasnt fair. Sure, this wasnt bad for him strategically, but he wanted action and blood! Now he was going to end up sitting around for months, worrying about what Werrick was up to. He was supposed to be slowly closing the trap on Werrick using a series of clever attacks and daring escapes. Instead, he had no idea what was going on and felt stupid. Not fair.


    Khita perked up. I know! I could infiltrate his forces as a spy and find out all his secrets. That way wed know exactly what to do.


    No, cknail replied as Ralphi rolled his eyes. cknail didnt care if Khita got herself killed in such an insane scheme, but she knew too much to be put at risk of being captured.


    What do we do? Just sit here and build up? Geralhd suggested. It wouldnt be a bad n.


    cknail shook his head. No, we cant do what Werrick thinks we will, or we will lose. He is too smart. We must attack the prey in a way it doesnt expects.


    So what? Attacking Werrick in his own territory is a terrible idea. He has strong fortifications, knows the area better than us, and outnumbers us by quite a lot.


    An idea urred to cknail. He hadnt thought it through yet, but it sure sounded fun. We will attack Daggerpoint!

 Twists and Turns 5

    Twists and Turns 5


    Why in all the hells would we do that? Ralphi asked as he scowled at cknail furiously.


    Geralhd and Khita also looked unconvinced that attacking Daggerpoint would be a good idea. Obviously, cknail needed to better educate the humans about why they were so wrong.


    We need to attack something, and its there. He wont be defending it, the hobgoblin exined, as if it wasnt obvious.


    There is a good reason for that. He doesnt technically own it, Geralhd pointed out.


    He has more troops there than anyone else and everyone else has to do what he says. He owns it, cknail countered.


    Thats not really true, and attacking people who technically dont work for Werrick will make you enemies. Youre supposed to be trying to separate them from Werrick.


    They all work for him, even if they pretend they dont, like little cowards. They think that makes them safe, but Ill show them it doesnt.


    Ralphi grimaced. We wouldnt be able to seize the city, let alone hold it. We dont have enough men to deal with so many civilians and so many buildings where hostiles could hide. Your hobs also would make a terrible garrison. That wouldnt work at all. Wed have revolts before the first day was over.


    So, we raid them and leave before Werrick even hears about it. Lots of loot there we could win.


    But its all hidden away or in the hands of organized cutthroats. Wed lose a lot of troops if we let them loose to loot.


    Im the boss here, and I think its a good idea. It would be impressive, cknail told them defensively.


    It would make everyone reconsider how much of a threat you were, and thus their own loyalty to Werrick, Geralhd admitted.


    Ralphi shook his head. Thats not really enough payoff for something so risky.


    I have a lot of hobs sitting around not doing anything. I cant just wait here for Werrick to move next year. That would be more boring than watching food get moldy.


    cknails human followers raised a few more objections, but hed already stopped listening and quickly dismissed them. He was the leader, so they had to do what he said. If they didnt agree, they were wrong.


    Of course, his decision had a cost, more work. Ugh. All his troops now had to be marshalled and made ready to move. cknail decided put that off until tomorrow. It was already starting to gette and he was getting hungry again. His first supper of the night ought to settle his stomach, so he headed over to the kitchen to see what was left in the pantry. He hoped there was pie.


    However, just as hed found some morsels that smelled tempting, a hobgoblin messenger burst through his front door and began yelling for him.


    Sighing, cknail put down the food and yelled for the hobgoblin to shut up. He then went to see what the hob wanted. This had better not dy his n to attack Daggerpoint.


    When he saw cknail, the hob immediately began bbering and waving his arms around. Boss, the enemy ising! Theres an army. A human army is almost here!


    cknail eyed the hysterical hobgoblin. Was it possible hed eaten some bad food, gotten delirious, and was seeing things that werent there? That happened sometimes. None of the other scouts he had watching Werricks territory had seen any sign of movement and a human army would be hard to miss. They werent all that stealthy.


    Where is it and how do you know about it? cknail asked his minion skeptically.


    That was when another pair of hobgoblins ran up to the door and began shouting about a human army that had been sighted by the scouts. It was still possible some bad food was going around, but unfortunately, the army was probably real.


    A little worried now, cknail grilled his minions for details, and soon a picture emerged. The army wasing from the south, and although it was small, it didnt sound like Werricks normal troops. The forceprised about hundred men, all of which were mounted. They were also carrying banners and wore a lot of shiny armor, but the hobgoblin scouts hadnt recognized the banners. That wasnt a surprise, since most the hobgoblins had transformed less than a year ago and had never been outside cknails territory.


    Of course, cknail had no idea what to make of it either. Did Werrick have so much money that he was able to hire a host of well-equipped mercenaries? However, if that was the case, why not move to support them?


    Confused, cknail quickly sent his minions to assemble his lieutenants. Despite its small size, this approaching force was still dangerous, and cknail didnt like it when humans began acting oddly. Usually, they were very predictable creatures and lovely prey.


    Ralphi and Geralhd arrived quickly and joined him outside the homes door. Khita came a momentter, but cknail ignored her.


    No, it doesnt sound like a mercenary force, Ralphi remarked as he scratched his hairy chin. They field mostly infantry, since proper military horses cost so much to feed and care for. Sometimes theyll have some mounted knights in charge, but its never most thepany.


    Geralhd nodded in agreement. Judging by those banners and the description of those riders, Id say its a nobles levy of household knights.


    What does that mean? cknail asked them.


    Khita grinned snidely. It means you wont be heading to Daggerpoint anytime soon.


    cknail ignored the obnoxious redhead. She wasnt funny and her opinion didnt matter.


    I have no idea what brought this on, Geralhd admitted. Its more than little strange to tell you the truth. Were far from thends of any noble, and they have no reason to be interested in us. Undoubtedly, they have no shortage of problems to distract them back closer to home. You know, peasants to draft and send to the king for ughter and such.


    Could they be Werricks allies? Ralphi asked.


    Theyre a little outnumbered. Why wouldnt Werricke along and help them? Khita pointed out.


    Ralphi scrunched his face up so he looked confused. Then maybe they are just here to fight cknail, since hes a hobgoblin and a menace? Nobles get all noble sometimes.


    Unsure, cknail turned to look at Geralhd. He had nothing to add. He was a menace, a great one. The best.


    Gehd looked uncertain. So, they are looking for us, but dont know how outnumbered they are? Thats a weirdly benevolent motivation for a country noble in these hard times. Not to mention, its highly risky with no reward even if he wins. If whoever this is had the troops to im thesends, they would have done it a long time ago.


    Khita scowled and nodded enthusiastically. Ya, those blue bloods stick to their fancy towers and mansions except when they want blood or coin from their folk.


    It seemed like none of his humans had answers for cknail. He needed better humans, or at least more of them. The problem with that was that humans needed a lot of care, so having too many was a chore. They were always wandering off and getting themselves in trouble, like being eaten by forest beasts.


    Well assume they areing to fight us. So, well have to be smart and prepare instead of going to Daggerpoint right away, the hobgoblin chieftain said as he ignored Khitas chuckle. Well fortify the town, but well also make some ns to retreat into the Green and regroup if they take the gate. There are some animal trails there that are too small for those big horses, and I dont want to fight knights head on.


    cknail had fought the shiny human riders before, when hed been one of Herads minions. He wasnt eager to repeat the experience, and he didnt have any illusions about how his hobs would fare against a charge. Stupid foul horses. Someone should poison them all.


    Ralphi quickly agreed that cknails n sounded like the best thing to do, and the others bowed to his greater experience with such matters. He was the only one of them that had been an actual solider.


    Since the enemy was mounted and cknails forces were upying a walled town, holding the gate was the priority. Work crews had already repaired it, mostly, but cknail quickly dispatched more minions to reinforce it. Wagons and junk could be piled behind the gates to prevent them from being easily opened. cknail also had archers and a group of spearmen hide out in the forest near the road. If the enemy became bogged down or managed to get through the gates, they could assault them from behind. If nothing else, they would be a great distraction.


    Soon, the town of Aldhara thrummed with activity as hobgoblins ran around in every direction. cknail had taken up position in the town square and was yelling at everyone to move faster. They were all a bunch of slow ckers and there was a lot to do before the enemy arrived.


    Several hours passed this way, and cknails minions got their tasks aplished, mostly because of cknails wonderful ability to give great motivational speeches while chasing them around with his sword. Only one hobgoblin was seriously injured this way, and that had been an ident.


    Despite that small set back, when the enemy arrived, cknail was ready for them. He had plenty of warning from his scouts and was able to observe from the watchtower near the gate. Herah and Geralhd were with him, while Gob and Ralphi were down below with the troops. Two of the supply wagons, piles of crates, and more than a few barrels had been pilled behind the gate, sealing it shut. Most of cknails troops were lined up behind the walls, where the enemy cavalry couldnt charge them. He had a few troops out in the forest and there were a few back ways into the town that would be very hard for massed cavalry to use.


    As cknail peered out over the wall, the forefront of the enemy came into sight. They rode around a bend in the road off in the distance and appeared from out behind the green expanse of trees. A column of riders moving at a quick pace, with dust billowing out behind them. Even from so far away, cknais eyes caught glimpses of the armor they were wearing. The metal gleamed when it caught the sun. A few secondster, as the stream of horsemen grewrger, the first of their banners came into sight. The pping length of cloth was mounted on a tall spear and pictured a golden crown on a blue field.


    Huh, thats the royal heraldry, Geralhd remarked in surprise. That means this group of riders is acting under the authority of the king himself. Its missing the red rose though, so none of the royal family are actually present.


    So, these are the big human boss guys, cknail mused thoughtfully as if he was deep in thought. He had no idea what that meant. Hed never really understood how the whole human king thing worked. All the humans seemed to do what they wanted regardless. Like with hobgoblins, the person giving the orders was usually the one who had the most fighters avable to back him. Fancy metal hats were nice, but gave very little in the way of actual authority.


    Geralhd sighed. Er, perhaps. There are several groups that can act with the authority of the king. Itsplicated. All it really tells us is that this group doesnt belong to an ambitious border noble, its been organized by someone in the capital and thus has far more authority than a backwoods lord could ever hope for.


    But were not in the southern kings territory; were in mine. I took it, nice and fair, by conquest, cknail reminded his human minion as he red at the g.


    The entire force of horsemen had emerged from behind the trees now, and their vanguard was much closer than before. Behind the royal banner, cknail saw another one bearing a stag that he recognized as belonging to a local noble. Why didnt cknail have a g? What would he put on it? Hmm


    As the enemy approached the thunder-like sound of hundreds of horse hooves hitting the ground filled the air. It was intimidating, and cknail felt himself began to grow nervous and sweaty. It looked like there were just over a hundred enemies, which wasnt all that many, but their mounts were ratherrge, so at first nce they looked quite numerous and dangerous. They certainly filled up a lot of space.


    The sound of bugles rang out, and a momentter, the riders slowed. cknail watched as they slowly came to stop just out of bow range of the towns walls. It seemed like they werent going to attack right away, and since they were human, that meant they probably wanted to talk. If nothing else, theyd want to brag and yell a lot before getting down to the fighting. cknail could understand that.


    Several of the horsemen near the front of the line broke ranks and gathered together. They were too far away for cknail to hear, but they were obviously talking about something, and it took them a while. It wasnt until almost a quarter of an hourter that they stopped. Then, two of the riders advanced to the front and dismounted. cknail studied them as they began walking toward the gate. One was a tall knight in very shiny armor, while the other was wearing a long brown robe. The knights face was concealed by his helm, but the man in the robe was bald and clean shaven. He had the look of a priest, who were a type of human cknail usually found quite annoying. They talked a lot even for humans, and they were always going on about things you shouldnt do. cknail did whatever he wanted.


    After walking about halfway to the gate, the pair stopped and conversed for a moment. The tall knight then turned to the towns walls and began yelling in an oddly familiar voice. Hail the town. Wee in peace to parley. We seek the one named cknail, and weve been told he upies this town.


    This was unexpected. If they werent here to fight, why were they here? Maybe this was just part of the usual bragging and yelling? cknail turned to look at Geralhd, but the man just shrugged unhelpfully.


    Go out and talk to them, cknail ordered the man. Thats what he got for being so useless.


    Why me? They want you!


    Exactly, so lets not give them what they want yet, in case its bad. Besides, youre smart about human stuff. Youll be able to tell me more if you meet them, cknail exined. Humans were generally better behaved with other humans, since they were pack animals.


    Sighing, Geralhd did as he was told and began climbing down thedder that led up to the watchtower. He then hustled over the gate, which could still be opened enough for him to squeeze through after some of the junk around it had been shifted.


    cknail watched as Geralhd headed out to meet the two human spokesmen. He really hoped he wasnt about to be killed horribly. That would make cknail sad.


    Once hed reached the intruders, Geralhd began waving his hands around and yelling. The priest-like fellow immediately began waving his hands and yelling right back, but the knight remained calm and no one attacked each other. Several minutes passed this way, and then Geralhd turned around and headed back through the gate, while the two visitors stayed behind. cknail climbed down to talk to him.


    What did they say? cknail asked him once they met.


    They said they had been sent by the kings council to meet with you and make a judgement in the kings name. Other than that, not much. I tried getting more out of them, but they remained tight lipped. They said theyd only talk to you, and that it was of the utmost important. I also noticed something. Judging by the knights armor, Im certain he is a pdin of a religious order.


    They fight monsters, dont they? Instead of other people, like everyone else, cknail remarked. Hed run into a pdin before, way back.


    Broadly, yes. The pdins are supported by not only the southern kings and the cults, but the mage guilds as well. Theyre all sworn to seek out and destroy inhuman evil and to withhold themselves from the disputes of men. All full members are also Vessels and warriors of some renown.


    Alright, lets see what they have to say. It should be interesting, cknail said before nodding and beginning to walk over to the gate.


    Geralhd hurried over to his side. What? Youre just going to go out there?


    Yes, cknail replied as he squeezed through the gate. He was curious now, and he had some idea of who he was dealing with.


    As Geralhd followed him like a good minion, cknail calmly walked out of the town and over to the waiting humans. The armored knight was about the same height as him and would be a difficult opponent to fight since he was a Vessel, but cknail wasnt too worried.


    The pdin raised a hand in greeting as the hobgoblin mutant approached. It was an oddly polite greeting, considering the armored war host behind the tough looking man. The knight then pulled his helmet off, revealing a face cknail recognized and been expecting. Greeting. The gods have brought us together again, cknail the hobgoblin.

 Twists and Turns 6

    Twists and Turns 6


    cknail faced the pdin. Yes, hello. I remember you. Youre um


    Grimacing, cknail tried to think of the mans name. This was a bit embarrassing. He knew this human, but hed met too many humans to remember all their weird human names, and most of them looked the same. Really, the most memorable thing about an individual human was the uniquely bad smell every one of them had.


    If youve forgotten, my name and title is sir Masnin, and I have the honor and responsibility of being a pdin in service of the Order of Helio-Lustria, the knight replied humbly and without any sign of anger. First, let me offer my condolences. I was genuinely saddened to hear of your mistress death. She was a woman of strength and determination.


    Despite how much time had passed, cknail felt a twisting surge of grief and anger well up within him at the reference to Herads death. However, he quickly suppressed the feeling and gave the man a polite nod. Stabbing a random guy wouldnt be constructive. Thank you, but dont worry. Ill kill all her enemies for her.


    The pdin winced visibly. Perhaps, thats not the wisest course. Maybe you could honor her memory better by serving a greater good?


    cknail smirked and gave the pdin an amused look. There was no way he actually believed that. Hed met Herad.


    The pdin sighed. I suppose not. Forget I said that. Anyway, thank you foring to see me. I was afraid youd avoid me, so let me reassure you that I have note to seek battle or to y you.


    cknail decided to get right to the point. He wasnt one for small talk. So, why are you here if you dont want to kill me? Youre a pdin, and Im the worst inhuman around here.


    The pdin turned to nce at the priest. They shared a grave look and then he faced cknail again. Word of your deeds has reached many ears to the south, and in Eloria in particr. Thus, due to my familiarity with you, I have been sent to make contact and appraise your behavior and reasonableness.


    Why do they care about me? Theyre very far away, cknail asked as he tilted his head to the side in an inquisitive manner.


    Er, certain events to the south have made the ruling council nervous. They want reassurances and some sort of agreement to secure their northern nk if possible.


    Your exnation of your mission and the proceedings that made it necessary seem a little vague to me, Geralhd interjected. What are these ominous certain events that you are speaking of?


    Sir Masnin nced at him as the priest frowned. Unfortunately, thats all Im allowed to share for now. Only after you have been deemed trustworthy can I speak freely on such matters.


    cknail immediately had one important question. What about Werrick?


    I can answer that question, The priest replied. The crown has also been in contact with the Wolf.


    And who are you? cknail asked.


    My name is father Jamhl. A high priest of Azur-Waj.


    Things were beginning to make more sense now. cknail eyed his two visitors suspiciously. Obviously, Werricks strange actions had something to do with this, and ckail wanted to know what. How do you n on knowing if Im trustworthy? You humans arent always great at observing.


    Im already pleasantly surprised. You certainly seem far different from a normal hobgoblin. Yes, you actually have a solidmand of ournguage, and youre certainly bigger than any hobgoblin Ive ever heard of.


    cknail resisted the urge to roll his eyes. He doubted this priest had ever seen a hobgoblin before, let alone tried to talk to one. They were rare down south and tended to avoid people, for obvious reasons. Also, his skull hadnt been bashed in by a rock. Feral hobgoblins werent exactly friendly.


    The priest continued speaking. As for the next step, we would like to inspect this town youve taken.


    Why?


    So we can judge how you treat humans youve began to rule over.


    Fine, as long as you twoe in alone. cknail sighed. He wasnt sure what they were looking for, but he wasnt worried about them deciding hed treated the town too badly, and he could keep most his troops out of sight. Oddly enough,pared to most human bandits, he was almost harmless. cknail had also heard a lot about all the atrocities that human nobles regrlymitted.


    The priest bristled. We would need at least a small guard.


    cknail pointed at sir Masnin. Hes already a big guard, and a Vessel too.


    The priest didnt really have a rejoinder for that, so he eventually epted the hobgoblins conditions. When that was done, cknail sent a messenger inside with orders for his troops. Some of them were to move out of sight of the path through the town that cknail intended to take his visitors along. This didnt seem like a trick, but there was no point in allowing them to count his troops. Also, most the horsemen had dismounted and were resting after their journey, so there would be plenty of warning if they decided to charge the gate for some reason.


    Thus, a few minutester, cknail led the pdin and the priest into Aldhara. Sir Masnin and his bulky armor had a little trouble squeezing through the barricaded gate, but a helpful shove from cknail got him through.


    Once inside, both the visitors stopped to study the two formations of troops cknail had left nearby to guard the gate. There was a unit of about fifty human bandits led by Ralphi and a simr sized unit of hobgoblin spearmen led by Gob. Both the groups were formed up into orderly ranks, but it was the hobgoblins that drew the visitors attention.


    To hear about it is one thing, to see it is another. Unbelievable, the priest muttered.


    Sir Masnin nodded. Even for me, this is the first time seeing more than one hobgoblin in a ce. They almost dont seem like the same creatures. Hobgoblins in formation. My mind refuses to ept what my eyes are showing it.


    cknail smiled proudly. They do whatever I say. I beat sense into them after they transform from goblins, and they all know where the good foodes from.


    Those spears arent military issue, so you didnt loot them. Where did you get them from? Sir Masnin asked.


    cknail shrugged. Some of my minions make them. We have forges and stuff.


    The pdins eyes widened slightly. I see.


    Hmm, they certainly look sharp, if a little crude, the priest added after taking a brief look. He seemed far less impressed than the knight.


    Next, cknail took them to the town square near the center of the settlement. As they walked, they even saw a few townsfolk that were going about their business. Since cknail had taken over, theyd remained skittish, but they couldnt hide inside all the time. They had jobs to do and lives to live.


    Both the pdin and the priest asked Geralhd several questions about the rout of Werricks forces, and Geralhd answered as diplomatically as he could. cknail let him handle that, since dealing with other stuck up fancy people was what he did best.


    Sir Masnin seemed pleased that cknail had killed very few of the townsfolk, although it was a good thing he hadnt asked about looting. cknail had to give Geralhd credit for how he handled the conversation. Hed also been right about how to deal with the resistance. Not executing a whole bunch of people without trial had paid off.


    While they were walking, sir Masnin stared at some of the houses and then turned to Geralhd. Has there been any sign of the dread gue in these parts?


    No, not at all. Why do you ask? Geralhd replied as he blinked in surprise at the abrupt question.


    The knight shrugged stiffly and looked away. I was simply curious. This part of the world has seen much turmoil, which is a fallow bed for the gue to grow upon. Cleansing such taints is one of my holy duties.


    cknail eyed the pdin discreetly. His exnation made sense, but the hobgoblin felt he was hiding something. Sir Masnin wasnt a great liar.


    Id like to see the local temples, Jamhl told them once theyd reached the town square and looked around.


    Sure, cknail told him. That seemed like a harmless request. Geralhd will lead the way.


    Geralhd frowned. Actually, I dont know the way either, or even if there is a temple to any of the gods in Aldhara. There probably is, but I havent seen it.


    This left them very little choice but to ask someone for directions, but they soon got themselves sorted out and headed in the right direction. It didnt take them all that long to get to their destination, a converted home withrge double-doors on a residential street. If it wasnt for therge symbol hanging above the door, it would be almost impossible to tell from a normal house. That exined how the building had been overlooked by everyone.


    Once there, the Jamhl stepped inside to talk to the local priest, and sir Masnin followed behind him. That left cknail and Geralhd alone outside for a moment, giving them some time to conspire.


    This makes no sense to me. Youre a human. Why do you think they are really here? cknail asked his lieutenant.


    Geralhd frowned thoughtfully. Im not sure. I thought the way he mentioned the gue was odd, but Im not sure what it means, to be honest. It alles down to the fact that they were sent by the kings council, and they normally wouldnt concern themselves with the likes of us. Perhaps the war has been rekindled and has turned against them? They might be seeking either mercenaries to fight for them or to secure their northern border with treaties, so they can pull more troops away to the battlefront.


    Why send a priest and a pdin for that?


    I have no idea, and that is troublesome. This whole situation smells rather fishy. I cant wrap my head around it, but my rather varied life experiences have given me half decent intuition, and its telling me to expect bad news. Lots of bad news.


    The priest and the pdin stepped back outside a few minutester, and the priest shed them a smile. Everything seems in order. I must admit to being slightly worried that you hobgoblins would profane ces of worship.


    Nope, we dont do that, cknail told him. At least, he was fairly certain they didnt. He didnt actually know what profane meant.


    A sudden spark of interest appeared I the priests eyes as he leaned closer to cknail. It was weirdly intimidating. If I may ask, who or what do you worship? Do you follow the imperial gods, or do you have your own?


    Confused, cknail threw a look at Geralhd, and the man quickly stepped forward. Goblins seem to have loose belief in natural spirits without any specific god-like entities.


    Oh? And what do you ask of these spirits? the priest inquired as he turned to the hobgoblin.


    cknail shrugged. Er, we dont ask them for much. That would be silly since they never listen to us. Mostly they give us someone to me when stuff goes missing or something bad happens.


    The priest nodded. I see. A very primitive belief system indeed. However, you have been exposed to human religion for quite some time, do you believe in any of the imperial gods?


    Yes. Tar-Ghald, the watcher in the Green, cknail replied immediately.


    Really? Geralhd asked in surprise. Clearly, this was news to him.


    Saeter believed in him, so I do to, cknail exined. How could his master be wrong? Besides, the Green God had never sounded like anything but a huge spirit to cknail, although instead of stealing peoples socks, he watched people from the Green and whispered on the wind. cknail suspected he also responsible for those rustling noises in the woods that cknail could never find the source of, but the humans apparently hadnt caught on to that yet.


    Unaware of cknails thoughts, Jamhl nodded in approval. Im d that youve discarded some of your peoples primitive superstitions and are learning some of the greater truths that humanity holds.


    Geralhd threw cknail a look that he instantly understood. It meant y along and maybe hell tell us what we want to know. cknail had no problem with that. Honestly, the part that had bothered him the most was referring to all goblins as his people. That was a weird thing to even think about. He was just cknail. Humans were dumb.


    The priest made a brief spiel on the nature of the gods. cknail just nodded and pretended that he understood, but that appeared to make the man happy. He probably wasnt used to much more from humans either.


    After that was done, the pdin and the priest walked a few feet and had a brief private conversation before returning. cknail had heard everything they said with his amazing ears, but none of it had been important.


    It certainly seems like youre more than capable of coexisting with humans and forming some sort of pact with the kingdom of Eloria, Jamhl told cknail. When I came here, I was half expecting to die in service of my god while trying to preach the edicts to savages. Being eaten by savages would be a terrible way to die.


    You humans dont taste very good. We have much better food these days, cknail muttered. Why did people keep bringing this up? Even starving feral hobgoblins probably didnt leave witnesses, so why were humans so sure hobgoblins wanted to eat them?


    Geralhd quickly coughed to get everyones attention. Were d you decided that were worthy of dealing with honestly. Such a rtionship requires trust though, so why dont you tell us why youve reallye here?


    Sir Masnin let out a deep sorrowful sigh. I suppose we should. Although it brings me misery even to think of it.


    Jamhl nodded and then looked down and mumbled a brief prayer. Everyone else waited for him to finish, which took a moment.


    When the priest was done, sir Masnin finally began exining why hed unknowingly interrupted cknails attempt to attack Daggerpoint. Youre probably wondering why a priest and a pdin are here as emissaries of Eloria when were supposed to independent of them. The answer is simple. Were here to negotiate and seek ord, not only as representatives of a kingdom, but also of all humanity.


    What it is that supposed to mean? Geralhd asked doubtfully. cknail understood his confusion. As a member of humanity, he ought to already know.


    It means that this isnt a political issue between kingdoms or crowns, but one that concerns all of the civilized nations. Which is why Im here, instead of helping down south, where Im sorely needed. As a pdin, Im a perfect representative of severity of the situation and can convey that this goes far beyond the interests of Eloria alone. I serve and protect humanity instead of kings or crowns.


    Geralhd looked slightly dumbfounded now. And what dreadful event has required this to be necessary?


    A truly great evil has brought me to you, and though it be far distant, its effects will ripple out across all the world. While King Namirius of Eloria was away at war, his country has been subsumed by the ck gue of undeath. Ghouls and even worse monsters now stalk the streets of almost all the major cities of Eloria. In the entire of record history, weve never seen an outbreak like this. It sprang from nowhere, and every attempt to contain it has failed.


    Oh Geralhd replied in shock. He suddenly looked a little green, which cknail thought was a good look on him.


    You still havent exined why youre here talking to us. This doesnt seem like something I can help you with, the hobgoblin pointed out. He was immune to the gue twice over since he as both a hobgoblin and a Vessel, but he as still only one warrior.


    Sir Masnin sighed again. Normally, we would quarantine the cities involved and send Vessels in to cleanse them, but were stretched thin by unexpected eruption in several popted areas and that has been unsessful. We suspect that the gue is not spreading naturally.


    It wasnt me, cknail told them. He had lots of witnesses that could tell them hed never left the North.


    We know it wasnt you. The gues is not the only threat we face. There have been many reports of strange ck creatures with many legs moving among the infected. Isted viges have alsoe under attack by these creatures, although we are still trying to gather more information of their movements. It is difficult to track them.


    Boggarts, cknail said as he narrowed his eyes angrily. Maybe now the humans would believe him about how dangerous they were.

 Twists and Turns 7

    Twists and Turns 7


    Sir Masnin nodded. I see you are aware of these creatures. Boggarts are an old wives tale, but Ive heard some of the local people call this new threat by that old name. Whatever they are, the creatures are truly twisted and evil. The havoc they have unleashed is unprecedented since the fall of the old empire and the burning of Jakhra on the sea.


    cknail gave him a nk look. Sure.


    Are things really so bad? Geralhd asked in surprise. He apparently got the reference.


    Yes, the gue is decimating the capital and several other cities. Eloria has never faced a crisis such as this, and it may not be alone. We have nothing but rumors so far, but the gue may be hitting other countries as well. It may well be affecting the entire continent.


    There was a moment of silence as all the humans shared a moment of dreadful reflection. They looked down and some of them murmured prayers. cknail joined in, since he didnt know what else to do. Really, this seemed like someone elses problem.


    After a few seconds had passed, sir Masnin looked up. The creatures do appear to be less of a problem in this area though. Its strange. If anything, there have been less attacks on isted viges, yet these boggarts appear to dwell in the wild ces, and there is no shortage of that out here in the North.


    cknail grinned proudly and stood up straighter. Ha, thats because I chased them away and cut them into tiny ck bits. They were bothering my hunters and miners, so I tracked them back to their nest and destroyed it.


    Sir Masnin turned to stare at Balcknail with sudden intensity. Youve actually fought these creatures and seen theirirs?


    Yes, I ughtered hundreds of the creepy bug things in a big battle. There are three different types and Ive killed them all, cknail exined. He was d a human was finally listening to him about this.


    This information could be invaluable to my cause. Would you tell me of this battle? sir Masnin asked with obvious interest.


    Sure, right after you finish exining why youre here. What exactly do you want from me? cknail told him. We should talk about that first.


    Despite his own willingness to brag, cknail wasnt going to let himself get distracted. If his guests wanted something from him, they had to give him something first.


    Ah, very well. As you know, we were sent here by the kings council, who are ruling in his name while he is away at the border. The situation at the capital is quite desperate, and the council realizes that they must resort to desperate measures. With this in mind, they gathered up all the allies they could find. Then, together with the local mage guilds, they came up with a dangerous n.


    And this n somehow involves both the North and our humble selves in some manner? Geralhd inquired.


    The priest nodded. Yes, the chances of sess go up if we can secure the cooperation of the northern bandit lords. However, we werent informed of all the details and a lot of information about this threat is stilling in from distant cities. Now that weve judged you capable and trustworthy, were simply here to invite you to the meeting where further details on this emergency will be discussed. There, you will meet a representative from the council itself and he will answer your questions.


    cknail put on his best polite face. Thats nice, but why would we go out of our way to help you so much? This n of yours sounds dangerous and Im not afraid of the gue or boggarts.


    Neither the priest nor the pdin looked surprised by this reply. Sir Masnin simply nodded. Cooperation will not go unrewarded. On top of gold and coin, the council has said they are willing to consider granting helpful northern bandit chiefs official recognition of the dominion they hold and perhaps even peerage.


    Geralhd perked up, but cknail was unimpressed. The hobgoblin didnt feel the need to acquire permission from some southern humans for anything, especially ones that were desperate for his help. He did what he wanted.


    The meeting itself will be held in Redcliff castle, along the border. Of course, safe passage and all the courtesies of guests will be granted to you and all your subordinates when youe, even if you choose not to grant us your aid, the priest exined before turning to Geralhd. The bounty on your own head has been rescinded as a courtesy by royal decree as well, although your crime is as yet unforgiven.


    Thank you, I am not ungrateful, Geralhd told them as he grinned.


    Meanwhile, cknail was thinking through the implications of everything hed just been told. This definitely changed things, and it certainly exined Werricksck of movement. The Wolf was probably busy dealing with boggart attacks on viges in his area and avoiding any outbreaks of gue. He couldnt afford to lead troops after cknail. He was also probably preparing for the meeting with the representative of the kings council. From what cknail knew of Werricks ambitions, there was no way he would pass up a chance for official recognition. So, if Werrick was going to be there, then so would cknail. If nothing else, it would be chance to mess with Werrick and insult him in front of other important humans.


    Fine, Ill go to your meeting, the hobgoblin announced.


    The priest smiled. Thats good to hear. These are dark days, and I hope we can all work together to end this horrid crisis.


    Well be going then, sir Masnin told them. Now that we have your cooperation, I must move on. My duty calls me south, where my de is sorely needed.


    Ill be leaving right away too, cknail agreed.


    Really? Youre riding out so soon?


    Not riding, no, but leaving yes. I need to go prevent the gue from spreading to the people here in the North.


    The pdin nodded solemnly. It is good that you n on taking care of the small folk in your territory. It says much about the nature of your soul and your ability to rise above your savage origins.


    Sure, letting the gue spread would hurt and kill a lot people, cknail replied. The sick and the dead werent very useful to him, he much preferred his minions healthy. Also, the pdin had misheard him. ck sensed an opportunity here to easily gain some newnd. After all, his territory was any ce he could force the inhabitants to admit it was his, and he could be very convincing.


    Fighting the dread gue is one of the most important duties a pdin fulfills, for the gue can cause untold devastation if it and the ghouls it creates are left unchecked.


    cknail gave the man a toothy smile. Then perhaps there is something you can do to help me fight the gue.


    After a bit more talking and saying a formal goodbye, the priest and the pdin were escorted out of the town and back to their men outside. The horsemen then got back on their mounts and started to ride away. cknail and Geralhd watched from the gate.


    So, what now? This throws all your ns into chaos. It looks like we wont be going to Daggerpoint after all, Ralphi remarked smugly as he walked over.


    cknail just snorted disdainfully. It does no such thing. Im too smart and my ns are way too good to be ruined by something like this. Really, its easier and will be faster now, since Im a genius.


    So, were still going to Daggerpoint? Geralhd asked. Surely, we have more pressing matters to deal with?


    Nope, thats the most important thing of all. This is the perfect time to conquer Daggerpoint, cknail replied. Itll be easy, and Werrick wont be able to do a thing about it. Hell look weak and Ill look strong when we meet the council.


    Ralphi scowled. Thats nice, but you still have to actually conquer the city, not just talk about it. We just finished exining to you why thats next to impossible. You dont have enough troops to hold Daggerpoint.


    cknail just gave him a smug grin. Dont worry. I have a n.


    This answer didnt satisfy anyone, but cknail refused to enlighten them. He was the leader and they had to do what he said. Theyd learn his n as he was putting it into action, mostly because cknail wanted to see their faces when they realized how amazing the n was and how incredibly smart he was.


    Since cknail had already been preparing his troops to move before he was interrupted by sir Masnins arrival, it didnt take all that long for him to get an expeditionary force ready. He took about half the troops he had avable and left the others behind in Aldhara for now.


    How do you solve the problem of not having enough troops by taking even less soldiers, Ralphi asked grumpily as they began marching out onto the road.


    By being as smart as me, cknail replied. Also, we will be taking an even smaller force and running ahead. We dont have enough time to wait for everyone. We need to move fast.


    Of course," Ralphi muttered sourly before walking off.


    cknails vanguard force was made up of a dozen humans and twice that many hobgoblins. They had to reach Daggerpoint as quickly as possible, so they nned on using alternating mounts. The humans took turns riding on half a dozen horses. The hobgoblins also had several boars which were being used as mounts. cknail just ran. He was more than fast enough to keep up with all the animals on foot, and he wasnt so sure the boars made good mounts. Even the hobgoblins involved in caring for and training the beasts frequently fell off them, and some of them then got trampled by the beasts hooves. Ya, running was much easier. The boar trainers were optimistic about being able to eventually work out the ws in the boars training so that theyd be better mounts, but cknail wasnt.


    Even moving as quickly as they could, it took a few days to reach Daggerpoint. The vanguard quickly left the main body of troops behind though. However, moving so quickly wasnt easy or fun.


    Everyone begsn to develop sores and grow tired. They had to sleep on the hard ground next to the forest. There, every outstretched branch looked shadowy and dangerous at night, so it was hard to sleep restfully. Only a skilled watch by hobgoblins kept the beasts of the forest at bay so that they could get any sleep at all. The going was so rough and tiring, Herah didnt bother cknail for sex at all. No one talked much either, not even Khita.


    Over the course of the journey, they also left two unconscious hobgoblins in the ditch next to the road. The poor fools had been trampled by the boars after falling off while riding. Hopefully, the main force would pick them up, although cknail thought it more likely theyd be carried off by harpies.


    Once they got close to Daggerpoint, the small force began to pass the asional traveler or merchant headed in the same direction. No one travelled to Daggerpoint without being able to protect themselves, as it was awless ce full of bandits. However, despite that, most the travelers that spotted cknails group immediately fled into the forest. cknail regretted not having the time to stop and root through the wares some of them left behind. They were practically gifts, and he was sure some of them had cheese hidden away somewhere


    Finally! My ass has never been so sore, Geralhd whined when the gates of Daggerpoint came into sight over the hill before them.


    You should have run with me then, cknail told him.


    As Geralhd threw cknail a unamused re, Ralphi spoke up. So, were here. Are you going to tell us how you n to conquer the ce with just over two dozen men? What exactly is our next move?


    Were going to walk through the gate, punch anyone who tries to stop us in the face, and then find somewhere to settle down where everyone can find us. Ill leave that up to you since humans are very picky about where they rest and sleep.


    Fine, whatever. Lets get this over with, Ralphi replied with a sigh as he began riding toward the gate.


    There were several guards at the gate, but the disheveled men didnt try to stop cknail and his minions. Technically, all bandits were wee inside the city, but most bandits werent hobgoblins, so the guards had to think about they were going to do. Apparently, thinking wasnt their strong suit. Several of them went rigid with terror while others broke ranks, dropped their weapons, and fled as fast as their legs could carry them. None of them got in in the way though, or tried to close the rickety gate, so cknail rode into the city without a problem.


    Ralphi then took point and led them deeper into the city as the streets in front of them became conspicuously emptier with great speed. Not quite everyone fled, but those residents that remained in sight stood in tight groups and were heavily armed. That was hardly odd behavior for Daggerpoint though. The city was full of rival gangs and remorseless killers who were always eyeing each other warily. There was now in most of the city to stop them if they came to blows.


    After a few twists and turns down various streets that were lined by rickety buildings, Ralphi led them up the front door of arge alehouse. Jumping off his horse, therge bearded man grumbled loudly to himself and then barged through the front doors without announcing himself.


    Alright, attention everyone! Our crew is taking this dive over. Everyone but the staff should bugger off right now if they know whats good for them, and the staff better stay put if they dont want worse, Ralphi yelled as he entered the building.


    The first floor of the alehouse was upied byrge wooden tables and a bar. There were also several patrons, who simply stared at Ralphi in confusion at first. However, several hobgoblins walked in behind the bearded man, and they provoked a very different reaction. The sound of gasps and sliding chairs filled the room as the patrons got up and hurried for the back door.


    Ralphi snorted and pointed at the man behind the bar. Stay! Were buying drinks.


    The barkeeper hesitated and eyed the back door of the pub longingly, but he didnt try to run. Instead, he simply grimaced and gave Ralphi a reluctant nod. The barkeeps of Daggerpoint were used to a lot of weird and dangerous stuff, but this one was clearly near his limit.


    Grunting in satisfaction, Ralphi strode over to one of the tables and took a seat. Hobgoblins and human bandits quickly followed after him and began upying tables. Most of the hobgoblins nced around with amused grins as they imitated their humanpanions. Only a few of them had ever been in an establishment like this.


    cknail took a seat on the far side of Ralphis table and the rest of his lieutenants joined him. Ralphi gave his chief an annoyed look but didnt ask anymore questions. Instead, he yelled for the barkeep to bring him ale, and when the man brought it over, he focused on drinking. Ignoring the poisonous human liquid, cknail simply leaned back and waited. This earned him a few curious nces, but everyone appeared content to take a moment to rest after such a harsh journey.


    As he had expected, it turned out that cknail didnt have to wait long. Less than an hourter, a messenger arrived. The man was dressed in red  the governors color  and tepidly stepped through the front door and looked around. The man hesitated and eyed the gathered hobgoblins cautiously before putting on a resolute expression and walking over to cknail. The hobgoblin chieftain was hard to miss. He stood more than a head taller than any of the other hobgoblins and he had an impressive crown of antlers. Some of the other hobgoblins had small horns, but nothing like their chieftains. cknail knew he looked almost as important and impressive as he actually was, almost.


    Greetings! I havee with a message from the Governor, the man announced as he reached cknail side.


    Yes, I know. Thats why youre wearing so much red and bothering me, cknail replied in an amused tone as he eyed the man.


    The man flinched but then calmed down after realizing cknail probably wasnt going to bite him or anything. Er, yes. He wishes to know what your intentions are ining to this city.


    Id love to talk to him about that. In fact, we should meet face-to-face as soon as possible, like very soon. I have very important news to share with him.


    Um, you could just tell me and Ill inform him of anything you wish.


    Inform him I want to meet him right away. He cane here, or I can start walking to his big fancy house, cknail replied.


    The messenger considered this for a moment and then gave cknail a quick bow. Hed apparently decided that this wasnt his problem to solve. I will ry your wishes.


    Turning around, the messenger then exited back out the front door and disappeared from sight.


    Over the next hour, cknail and his minions lounged in the alehouse and messengers ran back and forth between the hobgoblin chieftain and the Governor. The man was reluctant to meet face-to-face, but cknail was stubborn and more than willing to force the mans hand. Thus, the Governor eventually conceded and invited cknail to his mansion in the central district of Daggerpoint.


    Alright, lets go, cknail told him minions as he got up out of his chair.


    All of us? We just sat down, Geralhd whined.


    Yes, I dont trust you to stay out of trouble while Im gone, the hobgoblin replied.


    There were groans from many of his human and hobgoblin minions who were enjoying ordering various new drinks and snacks from the now very overworked barkeeper and his two servants, but no one dared disobey. After informing the barkeep that theyd be back soon and to stock more food, cknails group headed back out onto the streets.


    Moving quickly, the group headed for the center of the city. Soon, they left the markets and dirty alleyways behind. The central district was different from the rest of the city. The homes wererger and better kept, and the streets were far cleaner. The main reason for this was obvious. The Governors men patrolled the central district. d in steel helms and breasttes, the guards and patrollers carried short spears. This was the one area that bandits and criminals werent allowed to run wild.


    cknail and his minions got a lot of mean looks from the guards, but they werent stopped. Thus, they soon arrived at their destination, a huge mansion with arge yard that was surrounded by a stone wall. The entire grounds was neatlyndscaped, and two more guards stood outside the entrance.


    Most of your men should stay out here, one of the guards told cknail.


    The hobgoblin chieftain just nodded and selected Herah, Geralhd, Khita, and Ralphi toe with him. Normally, hed use some excuse to exclude Khita, but he wanted to show off.


    As the guards moved out of the way, cknail and his retinue entered the mansion. There was arge hall full of tasteful ornaments and marble statues on the other side of the door, with a crystal chandelier hanging in the center of everything. It was all very pretty and shiny. cknail wanted a chandelier of his own now. What type of human did he need to make one?


    The Governor was also present in the hall. With his trim white beard and distinguished posture, he looked the same as thest time cknail had seen him. He also wasnt alone. Several red-d servants stood behind him, but they werent important. There was a familiar woman in a long white frilly dress at the Governors side.


    Luphera gave the hobgoblin an overly friendly and quite suggestive smile. Its so nice to see you again, cknail. I must say, youve grown much more rugged looking, and Ive been too long without the unique pleasure of yourpany.


    Her voice sent a shiver down cknails spine. Ugh, this wasnt part of the n.

 Twists and Turns 8

    Twists and Turns 8


    Oh, hello, cknail told Luphera uncertainly.


    What had he just walked into? Her unexpected inclusion in this talk had thrown him badly off-bnce. Regardless of hisplicated past with her, the womans presence meant that this meeting wasnt going to be as simple as hed hoped it would.


    Luphera pouted. Really? Thats all I get in the way of greeting. Arent we intimate allies and close friends?


    Er, cknail really didnt know what his rtionship with Luphera was. Sure, hed killed some people for her, but that was nothing special. He killed lots of people, sometimes just because he could. The fact that shed seduced him once also didnt mean much to him. In fact, he suspected it had all been part of a dastardly scheme to manipte him. He med her perfume for messing with his head. Usually he wasnt attracted to humans  even thinking about it was icky - but that scent had clouded his mind and roused his blood.


    Cautiously sniffing the air, cknail didnt detect Lupheras usual scent. She was wearing a different perfume. No, wait. The mind-altering scent was there, just faint and buried under the other perfume. cknail didnt feel it affecting him yet, but he would need to watch himself carefully.


    Sex doesnt make us friends, and I dont know if were still allies. Why are you here? the hobgoblin asked the woman. He wasnt going to let his guard down.


    At his words, both Ralphi and Geralhd winced as if theyd just imagined something theyd rather not. cknail didnt understand why. Luphera wasnt bad looking for a human. Just very pink.


    Luphera just smiled. So cold. Im here to see you obviously. I wanted to do some catching up with my favorite hobgoblin. Its been rather dull here without you. I like what youve done to yourself by the way. You have a handsome amount of muscle now.


    Beside cknail, Herah had been ring at Luphera intently. Now, she growled loudly enough that everyone heard her, which earned her a curious nce from Luphera.


    Oh, I see. A female. I couldnt tell at first, she remarked a momentter as she gave Herah a smirk. It was easy to tell that she found Herah rather unimpressive.


    cknail couldnt help but nce at Herahs body out of the corner of his eye andpare it to Lupheras. The hobgoblin was skinnier, shorter, and had far less curves. She was also wearing far bulkier clothes which were simr to what all male hobgoblins wore. Luphera on the other hand had on a flowing dress that ented her body, and she was wearing expertly applied makeup that wasnt obvious unless you looked for it.


    Sensing the womans casual disdain, Herahs re deepened. Oh, youre a human? I thought a pig had wandered in to be butchered.


    From somewhere near the back, Khita giggled. cknail just grimaced. Should he be saying something here? He really didnt want to though. Getting between the two females seemed like a bad idea.


    Feisty one, isnt she? Luphera remarked as she nced at cknail.


    Herah tried to take a step toward Luphera, but cknail stretched out his arm to stop her. He couldnt let thise to actual blows.


    Careful, he told them both. This caused Herah to actually snarl so that her teeth showed, so cknail wasnt sure shed been listening.


    Luphera justughed. Ha, Im not the jealous sort. I simply think she should at least put some effort into cleaning herself up, if only so that she doesnt drag mud across the floor.


    Not everyone makes their living on their back, Khita huffed not so quietly in support of her friend.


    cknail couldnt help but nce at Herah so that he couldpare her to Luphera. They were very different, which wasnt a surprise since they werent the same species. He found them both attractive, although he was far morefortable with his desire for Herah. Being with a human was strange to even think about, even if Lupheras curvy body was delightfully soft and bountiful. cknail was fairly certain a whole bunch of his instincts were getting messed up when he was around Luphera, and some of them had more to do with hunting than sex. Luckily for her, Luphera could take care of herself and wasnt afraid of taking charge, even if that had embarrassed cknail a lot in the past. Ugh, he didnt want to think about.


    Still, embarrassment aside, Luphera had without a doubt had a huge impact on cknail. After being with her, cknail had no longer found female goblins attractive at all. They were too small now that he was a hobgoblin, and he was even bigger now. Female hobgoblins were built much more like human women though He was never going to mention this to anyone, especially not Herah.


    Since he wasnt deaf and blind, the Governor sensed the building tension in the room. Thus, he coughed and stepped forward. The purpose of this meeting is so that cknail can inform me of why hes seen fit to visit my city. At her request, I allowed Luphera to join us, but now is not the time for idle chatter. You can dally or w at each other somewhere else.


    Neither Luphera or Herah looked at him. Their eyes remained locked on each other. Somewhat off put by this, cknail decided to get this meeting over with as soon as possible.


    Im here to save you, he told his host smugly.


    The Governor frowned. Save us? You are the only dangerous element affecting my city at the moment. Your presence threatens to destabilize the bnce between the bandits and plunge my city into chaos. If you remain, Werricks local lieutenant will have to strike against you, and he has thergest force in Daggerpoint.


    I have a bigger one on the way.


    A spark of anger appeared in the Governors eyes. So, you n to wage war here? You may outnumber the Wolfs men, but all the local bandit troops have sworn themselves to him and would also rise against you. You cant fight them all.


    cknail chuckled. No, Im not here to fight humans. Like I said, Im here to save you.


    From what?


    Grinning broadly now in a way that showed off his teeth, cknail reached into one of his coat pockets and pulled out a crumpled piece of paper. He straightened it out and brushed it off a few times before handing it to the Governor.


    The dread gue, cknail answered as the man began reading. Luphera looked over his shoulder. They were both visibly paler by the time theyd finished reading. This was amusing.


    Grimacing as if he was in pain, the Governor looked back up at cknail. This is real? No, you couldnt have faked these seals. It must be true


    I got it from the pdin myself. Everything there is true, cknail exined. Hed requested an official letter from sir Masnin exining the situation in the South. It also vouched for cknail himself, although that part was vague. It was all part of the n.


    Luphera looked unusually disturbed and was biting her lip. My sources have reported outbreaks down south, but I had no idea it was this bad. I had assumed rumors were flying wild, especially in regard to these boggarts. I thought them figments of peasants imagination.


    I can also vouch for the veracity of the letter, Geralhd added helpfully. It seems like the situation in Eloria - and possibly elsewhere  is quite dire indeed.


    The Governor nodded and turned to cknail. Well, I thank you for bringing this to our attention, but I dont believe you came here as any sort of messenger.


    No, I came to save you from the gue, cknail agreed. The boggarts are spreading it and must know this city is here. The creatures are smart and have been preparing for a long time. They want all humans dead.


    I dont imagine your help wille without a cost?


    cknail smiled. Only a very small one. You just have to let my men inside and promise to help them. They will need food and shelter, but they arent picky like humans.


    Let in an army of hobgoblins? I dont see how that is necessary. We have our own methods of detecting and dealing with the gue. Hounds and Vessels among other things.


    The southern humans had hounds and Vessels, but it wasnt enough. The boggarts were able to kill them easily. Also, you have less Vessels than you did. Avorlus made all of yours and he works for me now.


    I had wondered what had happened to him after his disappearance, Luphera remarked.


    If we did agree to your terms, what of your conflict with the Wolf and his forces in the city? the Governor asked.


    cknail shrugged. To work, my men would need to be safe from ambushes by Werricks men. Youll just have to kick all of them out of the city.


    I dont have the men or the authority to do any such thing.


    Then get the other bandits and gangs to do it. They will need protection from the gue too.


    The Governor frowned. Perhaps that could work, but this seems like quite a lot to take on faith.


    You dont need faith at all, cknail told him. Im willing to bet the gue is already in the city, spreading from human to human as we talk. My hobs can track it down within a few hours and show it to you up close.


    The Governors eyes widened in surprise, and what smelled like more than a little fear. Already? You believe these boggarts are already spreading the gue within the city.


    Yes, there is no reason they wouldnt be. I chased them away from my territory, but Daggerpoint isnt in my territory. Yet.


    Now the Governor looked very uncertain and afraid. He hesitated for a moment before saying anything more. Very well. If you find any infection within my city, I will back your npletely.


    Luphera chuckled grimly. Its not like youre giving us much choice. It seems we arepletely dependent on you now. If the southernnds are truly being ravaged by the ghoul gue and these boggarts, we stand little chance on our own.


    Yep, you need me, cknail replied happily as he turned to leave. It would be silly to stick around now that he had the cooperation he needed. Every second he wasted, the gue was spreading further through the dark alleys and ramshackle buildings of Daggerpoint.


    Ill send a man with you, so you can contact me if you find something, the Governor called after him.


    Heading back out the front door, cknail and the others met up with the rest of their force on the street. One of the Governors men in red followed them as they headed back to the alehouse theyd just left. It would serve as a fine headquarters from which to begin their search.


    Who was that woman? Herah asked in a suspicious tone as she walked up right beside cknail. Khita was right behind her but hung back to listen without actually joining the conversation.


    Twitching nervously, cknail turned to look at her. Um, just an ally from long ago. She helped me kill someone, so I killed someone for her.


    Herah pouted. I help you kill lots of people, but youve never killed anyone for me!


    Um, is there someone you want me to kill?


    Thats not the point!


    cknail had no idea what the point was. Thus, he deflected. Ill get you a gift. Theres lots of nice stuff in this city.


    This seemed to satisfy Herah for the moment. She smiled happily and nodded, but then cknail noticed her turn and nce hostilely back at the Governors mansion. It was obvious what she was thinking.


    Dont go trying to kill her. I need you with me, and you dont know the city. There are many dangers here and she has a lot of skilled minions, cknail told her.


    Herah sighed in disappointment but nodded reluctantly. She then grabbed cknails arm and pulled him close so that they were walking arm-in-arm. Normally, cknail wouldnt have allowed that, but he knew better than to say anything right now. It was a small price to pay for not getting stabbed in his sleep.


    Once theyd burst back into the alehouse and startled the barkeep so that he dropped the tter he was carrying, cknail had a quick snack and then began organizing the search for the ghouls. It had been quite a while since hed encountered any of the twisted humans, but he clearly remembered what they were capable of. Images of Herads fight against them flickered through his mind. The creatures had emerged from the forest at night and charged the bandits campfires. It was then that cknail had first seen Herad go all out. Her de had reflected the firelight as shed cut into the ghouls, but it had been a close fight, even for her.


    cknail also clearly remembered what the creatures smelled like. It was a nasty oily smell that was tinted by rot, and yet still very human-like.


    Forming up several packs of five hobs and one human minder, cknail told them what to look for. He also assured the humans that they werent supposed to go anywhere near any ghouls. They were simply along to keep the hobs out of trouble and deal with any distractions that came up. The humans were understandably afraid of the dread gue. Not everyone who was infected showed obvious signs but any exposure to infected body fluids could spread the gue. All the infected also eventually became monstrous ghouls with ws and teeth that could slice into flesh and spread the gue that way. The only known cure was an expensive elixir made from silver.


    cknail himself stayed behind in the alehouse so that his minions could find him once theyd detected the scent of the gue. While he waited, he snacked some more. The barkeep had done as he was told and gotten some more cheese. There were also meat pies.


    So, who was that flirtydy? You seemed to know her quite well, Khita asked as she took a seat next to cknail.


    The hobgoblin chieftain frowned. No one important.


    Khita huffed in disbelief. As if. Come on tell me!


    No, cknail replied as he shoved her chair away. Stupid Khita. She was annoying as a bug that had gotten stuck up his nose.


    Thankfully, cknail didnt have to ignore Khita for much longer after that. One of the groups hed sent out returned to report.


    We found the scent you were seeking, boss, one of his gobs exined after hurrying over to his masters side. Theres a big abandoned building in a ce few humans go. It smells exactly like you said.


    cknail put down the rest of the drumstick hed been eating and got up. Alright, lets get ready then. The others should be getting back soon.


    All the hunting parties hed sent out had orders to return every half hour, even if they didnt find anything. To contain a ghoul infection, cknail was going to need them all, so he headed outside to wait for them.


    It took fifteen minutes, because one group waste by over five minutes. cknail didnt have time to punish them though. They had to move fast. Thus, at hismand, the hunters whod found the trail began leading the way into the city. Following behind them, cknail took his two dozen hobs, Khita, and the messenger in red with him. Khita was immune to the gue because she was a Vessel, but any other humans would just be a distraction. They could meet up with him once hed dealt with the infection.


    The hunters led cknail and the others down several twisting alleyways that ran between the dirty buildings of Daggerpoint. There was grime and garbage everywhere, as well as several unconscious drunks and a lot of rats. The drunks didnt move, but the rats scrambled away from the hobs and disappeared into junk or gaps between stones. Several hobgoblins eyed the vermin hungrily. The rats here were fat, but from experience, cknail knew they didnt taste great.


    The lead hunter suddenly stopped and raised a hand to point at arge building up ahead. There, thats where the trail leads and the scent is strongest.


    cknail studied the structure. It was obviously derelict, since it had a huge sagging hole in its roof. Before being abandoned, it looked to have been a workshop of some kind. It had a big central section that was two stories tall and several smaller side sections as well. It had probably never been pretty looking, but now it was rather dark and forbidding. Most the buildings around here werent in much better shape though. Many of them were abandoned and run down too. Only a few seemed like people ever visited them. This was one of the parts of Daggerpoint that had been left to molder after the bandits had taken over.


    Sniffing the air, cknail easily detected the scent of ghouls. The foul oily smell was thick here. Cautiously, cknail studied the dank and shadowy alleys that surrounded him. It was possible that there were ghouls hidden all around this area. If he attacked any of them, the others would rise up and attack him from behind. This hunt was going to require careful nning. Despite how they looked, ghouls had dangerous and cunning instincts.


    The messenger in red was still cowering at the very back of the group, so cknail sent him back to his master with a single hobgoblin as an escort. That way the Governor would know exactly where the infection was. That done, cknail began giving the others orders in a hushed voice. Most the hobs were to stay outside in pairs and make sure no ghouls fled, while cknail went in with a few minions to guard his back.


    Ill stay out here and make sure none of them get away, Khita volunteered.


    This earned her a look from cknail. Hed expected the stupid redhead to insist on joining him. Now that he was paying attention, she did look out of sorts. She was paler than usual, and she kept ncing at all the nearby shadows.


    Whats the matter? he asked her.


    Ghouls creep me out, the redhead whispered back. "I''m also not great haunted buildings."


    cknail frowned. Youre immune to the gue now.


    Sure, but they can still just kill and eat me. I mean, they used to be people, but now their blood is ck and theyre all starved looking. Its just wrong, she replied with shudder of dread.


    Fine, stay out here, cknail replied with a sigh. Of course, even her fears were stupid.


    A shuffling noise drew cknails attention, so he nced over to his left. There, a previously unnoticed figure wearing rags was crouched next to a pile of junk. However, now it had drawn attention by moving to look toward the hobgoblins. At first, cknail thought it was a beggar or another drunk, but then he met its gaze. Its eyes were pitch ck pools full of shimmering hunger. Slowly, the ghoul began to rise, revealing its long ws and the emaciated body thaty under its filthy rags. A mouth full of twisted teeth and ck mucus became visible as it opened its mouth to scream and summon its pack.

 Twists and Turns 9

    Twists and Turns 9


    With every shred of speed he could muster and every bit of magic he could pull out of his core, cknailunched himself toward the ghoul. Like a striking snake, his de flew out of his sheath and sliced through the air toward the ghouls neck. The creatures mouth was already wide open as it sucked in the air necessary for it to scream and alert its pack. However, just as a shrill screech began to echo out of the ghouls throat, cknails de mmed into the side of its neck. The de cleaved through the deathly pale flesh effortlessly and sent ck blood flying as it decapitated the ghoul in one powerful strike. There was a wet plop sound as the ghouls body fell over, and its head hit the ground a momentter.


    cknail stared at the body for a moment, before looking around for something to clean his de off with. Ghouls were weird, but he was fairly certain that decapitation killed them, so he wasnt too worried about it getting back up. He really didnt want to leave any ck stains on his sword though. Ghoul blood smelled foul, and there was the small matter of it spreading the gue.


    Good job, boss! Youre the fastest ever, Herah congratted her chief. cknail gave her a nod, because she was right.


    Did you get him in time? Khita asked. She sounded a little shocked.


    I think so, cknail answered as he used a nearby rag to clean his de. The n can continue without change.


    The redhead nodded. Right, so Im staying out here, away from the haunted building full of ghouls.


    Whatever. Just make sure you dont let any fleeing ghouls get past you, cknail told her before turning to his hob minions and selecting the ones who would be entering the abandoned workshop with him.


    The building loomed ahead of the group. Its wood was so rotten there was arge gaping hole in the roof, and its stone foundation was stained with dirt and other fouler substances. The windows were all uncovered, but there was nothing but imprable darkness to be seen within them. cknail thought it was rather inviting andfy looking. It would have made a great hideout for hobgoblins if it hadnt already been taken by ghouls. Also, he didnt really need a hideout, since he was a glorious leader these days. Mansions were more his thing now.


    Alright, lets go, cknail told Herah and his guards as he started walking toward the buildings front door. Behind him, Khita and his other minions began to spread out to form a perimeter around the target.


    Moving carefully and quietly, cknail and his minions approached the entrance to the abandoned workshop. The door had fallen off its hinges long ago, and only a small pile of wooden scrap on the ground was left of it. cknails hobgoblin eyes could pierce the heavy darkness thaty beyond the entrance, but there wasnt much to see, just more rotten wood and shadows.


    cknail moved inplete silence as he stepped through the door and looked around. The buildings interior was eerily quiet, even to his sensitive hobgoblin ears. There was a hallway to his left and a vast workshop full of junk to his right. It was hard to make out any details in the dark though. A multitude of ghouls could be hiding nearby. The creatures were stealthy and prone to concealing themselves and sleeping during the day. Although, cknail wasnt sure ghouls really slept like normal animals. It was more like they lurked unmoving for long periods of time, conserving their strength as they waited for a chance to strike.


    Frowning thoughtfully, cknail decided to head into the workshop, and ignore the hallway for now. He drew his sword as he began to creep forward, and his guards followed carefully after him.


    Therge room had once contained rows of shelves and lines of tables. Now, all the shelves were broken scrap and most the tables had copsed. A bit ofte afternoon light got in through some small windows on the walls, but not a lot. The room was very dark and shadowy, and the remains of machinery had been piled up in one corner. Thus, there were plenty of ces where ghouls could be hiding.


    As cknail moved further into the room, he had to move very cautiously. The floor beneath his feet was rotten and weak. Not only was there the danger of making a loud noise, but it wasnt impossible that cing his foot in the wrong spot would send him falling down through a new hole in the floor.


    cknails magical senses werent registering the presence of anything alive. They werent the most consistent way to find enemies, but they usually gave him at least a little warning that he wasnt alone. cknail was sure there were ghouls here though. He could smell them for one thing. Their corrupt oily stench filled the air. Ghouls probably didnt trigger his magical senses because they didnt feel fear. cknail thought this was because their brains were so rotten. Any part of their mind that didnt help them spread their foul infection was long gone.


    Unfortunately, not all of cknails minions were masters of stealth like him. After the group had made it about twelve feet into the room, a misced foot by one of the hobgoblins made the floor creak loudly. cknail froze and nced back over his shoulder. All of his minions had frozen as well. It wasnt clear who had messed up and made the noise, so cknail gave them all an angry re before turning to scan his gloomy surroundings. Had they given themselves away?


    At first, cknail detected no change in the environment. Everything was still. Then, his ears twitched as a subtle new sound reached them. It was very quiet, but it was there. cknail heard the rustling of cloth and something scrapping against wood. Even worse, it wasnt alling from the same direction. Several simr noises wereing from all around the workshop.


    Resolved, cknail raised his de and peered around the gloomy room. He was no human, so he feared neither the darkness nor the touch of ghouls. Hobgoblins such as him were predators and the shadows were their home. These ghouls were rivals and were trying to prey on humans that belonged to him.


    Suddenly, all at once, four figures rose up from out of sight and turned toward cknail. Their features were difficult to make out in the darkness, but their bodies were thin, and their clothes were ragged. Ghouls. The unnatural creatures seemed to study cknail for a moment, and then they all screeched simultaneously and threw themselves at him.


    Kill them all. Hack them to bits! cknail roared as he nted his feet on solid parts of the floor and got ready to meet his attackers.


    Even as the first few ghouls closed in, cknail could hear other ghouls began to move in other parts of the workshop. Soon, they would all flood into this room as well.


    A ghoul in stained rags hissed furiously as it threw itself at cknail. It reached out to gore him with its jagged ws, which were caked in grime. Unimpressed, cknail cut the creatures arm right off with a swing of his sword and then kicked it in the chest, sending it flying backward. However, almost immediately, two more ghouls attacked him, and these ones were armed. One swung at him with a long club made from broken wood and the other had a rusty axe that looked like it had once been used to cut firewood. At the same time, cknail could hear several of his minions shout from behind him as more ghouls engaged them.


    Lashing out, cknail sliced the rusty axe being swung at his chest in half with his de. He then ducked under the club, brought his weapon around, and gutted the ghoul holding the broken axe shaft. ck oily entrails spilled out of the ghoul as it screamed furiously and fell over sideways. cknails blow had cut deep enough to damage the creatures spine, but it didnt sound in pain, just very angry.


    The ghoul with the club swung at cknail again, but the hobgoblin chieftain blocked the blow and then punched the monster in the face. Its head snapped back from the impact, but it recovered almost instantly. Dropping its club, it lunged at cknail with both of its ws outstretched. Even a magic empowered blow to the head from a mutant wasnt enough to ovee the ghouls immunity to pain and shock.


    The ghoul was in too close for cknail to hit him with his sword, so he let his de fall. At the same time, he reached down to his waist with one hand and drew a dagger. Stepping to the side and away from the ghouls sharp ws, cknail then jammed the dagger up through the bottom of the ghouls jaw and into its brain. Despite the way the transformation into a ghoul twisted a humans flesh and fingers, their bones were basically the same and had the same weaknesses.


    ncing back, cknail saw that his minions were holding their own against half a dozen ghouls that were trying to overrun them. Herah in particr was fighting viciously to hold her ground. As he watched, she savagely hacked apart a ghoul that tried to jump on her. It was good thing cknail had trained his minions so well.


    cknail didnt have time to watch other peoples fights for long though. Two more hideous ghouls emerged from a side room and charged him. One of these new assants was actually clutching a pitchfork. They hissed as they threw themselves forward, so cknail hissed right back, before swinging his sword with such force that it sent the pitchfork flying away. That didnt deter the ghouls, so cknail stabbed one of them in the gut. His de sank deep, but then he realized his mistake. That would have been a killing blow against a human or hob, but the ghoul simply ignored the de lodged in its stomach and tried to w at cknail.


    Grunting, cknail kicked the ghoul away, which deprived him of his own weapon. That gave plenty of time for the second ghoul to throw himself atop the hobgoblin. cknail felt ws rake across his coat and the unprotected back of his head, drawing blood. Thankfully, it felt like the ghouls w had gotten entangled in cknails horns before they could do too much damage.


    Although the hot rage of battle was burning within cknail, the wound still hurt, enming the hobgoblin more. Roaring in fury, cknail grabbed the offending ghoul and mmed him into the floor. There was a crack from the rotten wood, but that didnt stop cknail from following up his throw with a powerful stomp to the ghouls head. There was a louder crack as the force of the blow drove the ghouls skull right through the rotten floorboards. The creature also stopped moving. It looked like the hobgoblin had broken its neck.


    Still angry and looking to take his wrath out on his enemies, cknail stepped over to the ghoul which had his de stuck in it. He gave it several heavy kicks that cracked bones, and then ripped his de out of the creatures gut and decapitated it.


    That done, cknail turned and went to the aid of his allies. Although there were a lot of dead ghouls surrounding them, the hobgoblins were still fighting over half a dozen of the creatures. More ghouls had swarmed in from other areas of the workshop to join the fight as it dragged on, and despite the ease with which cknail had dispatched them, ghouls were not easy opponents. The creatures attacked without any regard for their own safety and had no mercy. They also had startling speed and strength to match that of the most dangerous humans. Most dangerous of all though, theypletely ignored any wound that didnt outright kill them. Their only weaknesses were theirck of martial skill and inability to makeplex ns. Even ghouls that had once been warriors seemed to lose their weapon skills, even if they could still wave around simple tools.


    cknail could understand how these things were such a threat to human cities. If his minions hadnt been immune to the creatures infection, this fight would have been a nightmare.


    Herah was warding off two unarmed ghouls with her sword, so cknail stepped forward and struck down one of them down with a sword sh to the chest that knocked the creature sideways and ripped open its ribcage. This gave Herah a chance to finish off the other ghoul with a series of quick slices that disabled its limbs and then tore its throat open. After that, the hobgoblins began eliminating the ghouls one-by-one with their chieftains help. Thest two tried to disengage and run back into the shadows, but cknail bounded after them and cut them down from behind before they got far.


    What now, boss? Herah asked when thest ghoul stopped moving.


    cknail grunted and looked around. Now, I think the humans are going to have to burn this entire building down. Theyd sort of gotten ck blood everywhere and that stuff stained. The hobs clothes would also probably need to be burned too. Oh well, some considerate humans had probably left some clothes around somewhere.


    I meant, what should we do next?


    cknail thought about that for a moment. We should do some exploring before the Governor gets here. I want to see the basement.


    You think there will be more ghouls? Herah asked.


    cknail shook his head. Something else.


    A quick exploration of the rest of the building revealed the stairs leading to the basement. They were behind a door in a back hallway. cknail and his minions stood at the top and stared down into pitch ck darkness at the bottom.


    So, did anyone bring a light? cknail asked his hobs. There was a quick chorus of nos.


    cknail sighed. He really needed to remember to get better minions that would remember this sort of stuff. This wasnt the first time this had happened.


    Since cknail didnt really want to go down into the basement without a light, he decided to station some guards outside it and head back outside to wait for the humans. Hopefully, they would bring amp or something.


    This proved to be a good idea, because when cknail left the workshop and found Khita, she was standing next to several men in the Governors colors, and two of them were holdingnterns, probably because it was getting dark out. Apparently, the Governor moved quickly and efficiently when ghoul infestations were involved.


    Only one ghoul tried to escape, and some of your hobs got it. Theyre standing guard over its body now, Khita yelled his way when she saw him.


    Good, were almost done inside.


    All the guards in red tensed as cknail approached, but he ignored it and held out a hand toward the nearest one. Give me yourntern.


    The man froze from fear instead of replying, which annoyed cknail. He didnt have time for all this constant human stupidity. Khita was also apparently very unimpressed.


    Geez, what a coward, she announced as she reached out to grab thentern from the mans hand.


    Once she had it, the redhead handed thentern to cknail, who immediately took it. The hobgoblin then gave her a grateful nod and hurried back to the stairs inside. It was nice to be reminded that there actually were more useless humans than Khita. It was hard to imagine, but he could have been stuck with someone worse.


    As cknail arrived back at the stairs, his hobs gave him a bunch of mistimed salutes. That was a little random, but whatever.


    Come down after me, he told them as he held the litmp up with one hand and drew his sword with the other.


    At your order, boss! one of the hobgoblins answered.


    Ill never leave you, Herah added. cknail chose not to dwell too much on her choice of wording.


    The old wooden stairs creaked ominously as the hobgoblin descended. Hisntern pushed back the darkness, revealing grimy walls made of loose stones and disintegrating mortar. The floor was packed dirt and there was rubble everywhere. There were also lots of cobwebs. Idly, cknail wondered if they were made by the crunchy type of spider or the poisonous type. It was important to know the difference if you didnt want your tongue inting to three time its normal size.


    There was more creaking from the stairs as cknails minions and Herah descended to join their chief. cknail quickly nced their way before turning back around.


    Most of the rubble in the basement wasnt nearly big enough to hide a ghoul, no matter how sneaky they were. cknail also checked the ceiling, just in case, but there were no ghouls hanging up there either. There were footprints in the dirt, but it seemed like all the ghouls that had been hiding down here hade up during the fighting.


    cknail wasnt here to look for ghouls though. Lifting hisntern high, he began to walk around the room and inspect the walls. He soon found what he was looking for, a spot where the dirt was very loose, as if it had recently been dug up.


    After taking a moment to sniff the air, cknail handed his sword to one of his minions to hold, and then dug up the dirt a little. It soon became obvious that something had tunneled in under this wall, so cknail stopped ying around in the dirt and instead kicked the bottom of the wall as hard as he could. The stones gave way and copsed outwards, to reveal a hidden passage. cknail kept kicking, and soon the entrance had been widened to the full size of the passage beyond it.


    The newly discovered tunnel was wide and tall enough for a man or a hobgoblin to walk through, and it seemed to have been dug through the dirt. It didnt look natural though, the walls were too regr.


    What dug this? It doesnt look like human work, one of cknails minions asked as he peered past his chief.


    cknail didnt need to answer him. Instead, there was a familiar hiss from the darkness of the tunnel and the shadows began to shift. A momentter, a swarm of angry boggarts emerged from the darkness and threw themselves at the hobgoblins.

 Twists and Turns 10

    Twists and Turns 10


    The boggart workers swarmed out of the dark tunnel and into the abandoned buildings basement. cknail stepped forward to try to hold them back, but although he managed to cut two of them down, the rest pushed him back with the weight of their armored bodies.


    Behind cknail, his minions quickly stepped up to join their leader, and together they formed abat line that met the boggarts head on. The hob holding themp was the only one that fell back, since they all needed that light to see.


    Lashing out with his de, cknail mangled a worker and then skewered another. His forces were managing to hold their ground, and this limited the number of boggarts that could swarm out of the tunnel. The creatures were tightly packed though, and they didnt hesitate to climb over one another as they threw themselves at the hobgoblins. Boggart after boggart was in, but their attack didnt relent. Obviously, there was arge number of the creatures in Daggerpoint. cknail had expected that, since hed heard that the creatures had been attacking anyone who tried to hunt or quarantine ghouls in the South. Thus, cknail had decided to beat them to the punch and hunt them down first. A boggart managed to lunge forward and bite cknails ankle. The hobgoblin chieftain suppressed a screech of pain, and violently stomped the creatures head until its skull shattered. Yes, this was all going ording to n. Mostly.


    Suddenly, the mass of boggart workers shivered and moved to make room for two tall warriors. The bigger boggarts had spears held out in front of them as they emerged from the tunnel. cknail grimaced. This development wasnt a surprise, but it was still annoying. The n would still work.


    Remaining behind a rank of its own smaller brethren, who served as shields for him, one of the warriorsshed out at cknail with his spear. The hobgoblin was forced to duck under the blow and then kick away a worker that tried to attack him at the same time. He hated when boggarts did this.


    Meanwhile, the second warrior used his spear to attack a hobgoblin to cknails right. The hob tried to block the attack, but it still grazed his shoulder, and he was forced back. This opened a hole in the hobgoblin line, allowing the workers to surge forward.


    Thats far enough, you tiny ck beetles, cknail roared in response. He knew he needed to do something now. His minions were in serious danger of being overwhelmed.


    So, as the hobgoblin chieftain snarled at his foes, he reached into his core and pulled out as much mana as possible. He then shaped the power into a wave and hurled it at the boggarts before him. The magical power hit the creatures and soaked into their minds, bringing cold terror and mind-numbing fear with it. The boggart horde rippled and faltered.


    Im going to rip you apart! cknail screamed as he began striking at the mass of enemies before him.


    The power of cknails magic infused blows sent mangled boggarts flying, and as he yelled, he assaulted the boggarts with another wave of magical terror that attacked their minds. This was too much for many of the stocky workers. Their attack stopped as the swarm fell into chaos. Many of them began desperately trying to flee out of the range of cknails long sword.


    As the enemy broke before him, cknail grinned madly and pressed his own attack. He kicked one of thest workers directly in front of him out of the way, and then he shed at the warrior with the spear whod attacked him before. The warrior blocked the blow, but cknail didnt care. Growling hungrily, he used a burst of strength to push the warrior off-bnce and then punched it in the face. There was a crunching sound as cknails fist impacted the carapace, and the boggart spasmed. Thankfully, the carapace on the creatures face wasnt very thick, although the strike had still hurt cknails hand more than a little. The pain was a minor concern though, and it was barely noticeable through the excitement of battle.


    Taking advantage of his foes stunned state, cknail quickly raised his de and decapitated the boggart with one swift strike. At the same time, the other hobgoblins rallied and trampled over the workers in their way as they threw themselves at the second warrior. One hobgoblin went down with a spear wound to his arm, but then the warrior was overwhelmed by a flurry of blows from the other hobs.


    As thest warrior went down, the workers brokepletely. Thest few that were still trying to fight turned and fled. Soon, the entire mass of boggarts was fighting itself as all the workers attempted to push their way back into the tunnel all at once. This gave the hobgoblins plenty of opportunity to attack their backs, and dozens of workers were quickly hacked apart. By the time thest living boggart had managed to escape, the floor of the basement was littered with boggart corpses and bits of shattered ck carapace. It was a rather satisfying sight.


    With his bloodlust slowly fading, cknail looked around and then eyed the tunnel. It didnt seem like there was going to be another attack, and he had no desire to chase the boggarts underground into unfamiliar caves.


    Lets get out of here, cknail told his minions as he turned and began walking to the stairs. He wanted to see what was going on above.


    None of his minions objected to that n, so they all hurried after cknail as he exited the decrepit and ruined workshop. The streets outside were much the same as thest time cknail had seen them, although there were a few more humans in red around. They were all keeping their distance from the workshop though, which made sense considering the danger the gue posed to them. cknail sheathed his weapon and began walking over toward Khitas position.


    Oh, youre back? Are you done this time? Im tired of sitting out here, doing nothing, Khita said as he approached. The three guards in red beside her were silent. They still seemed nervous.


    cknail gave the redhead a look. Then you should havee with me into the building or note with me to Daggerpoint at all.


    Khita just huffed indignantly, as if cknail hadnt told her the simple truth.


    Suddenly, cknail felt someone tug his shoulder and yell in his ear. Get down!


    Surprised, he let himself be dragged down toward the ground by Herah. This probably wasnt a weird assassination attempt by her. If she was going to kill him like this, she would have done it right after the meeting with Luphera. Around him, several other hobgoblins all ducked at the same time.


    This turned out to be the right thing to do, as a st of swirling energy flew over cknails head a momentter and then smashed into a building behind him. There was a deafening boom as the magic exploded and then ttering noise as broken stone and brick rained down around the hobgoblins.


    Shocked, cknail nced toward the source of the attack, and saw a boggart warrior wielding a glowing staff. It was standing in the entrance to another abandoned building. However, as he watched, it stepped aside, and boggart workers began streaming out of the building.


    Stupid Khita, cknail hissed as he climbed back to his feet. If hed been hit, it would have been all her fault since shed been distracting him with her stupidity. Normally, he would have sensed the attack or something.


    Unsurprisingly, everyone else was just standing around with stupid looks on their faces and no one seemed to be doing anything about the mob of boggarts that was swiftly building in size, so cknail had to. Typical.


    Form up on me! Anyone who misses this fight will be beaten like a drum, cknail yelled as he drew his sword and flourished it up above his head. There were still groups of hobgoblins scattered around the street, and he wanted them at his back.


    Hobgoblins quickly began hustling over from various buildings and alleys, but cknail knew that many wouldnt make it in time. From a ramshackle hut over to cknails left, another wave of boggarts suddenly emerged. These new attackers charged right toward cknail and reached him within seconds. A melee quickly broke out as the hobgoblins and humans defended themselves. Soon, the streets were full of chaotic fighting between scattered groups.


    cknail shed at several boggart workers that tried to swarm him, but he was forced to jump back as another st of force zoomed by. The magical attack hit a hobgoblin and a worker that were fighting beside him, sending them both flying. Ouch.


    Hissing in frustration, cknail eyed the enemy mage. He had been keeping an eye on him, but now he knew the creature needed to be dealt with right away. cknail couldnt fight effectively if he had to worry about iing magical attacks, and the boggarts could probably afford to keep trading workers for hobgoblins. It seemed like the boggarts had everyone else outnumbered.


    Leaving his allies behind, cknail immediately broke out into a run as he charged across the street toward the mage. Boggarts moved to intercept him, but he dodged them or kicked them aside with ease. The mage itself tracked cknail with the tip of his glowing staff. Apparently, he knew who the greatest threat was.


    As a st of rippling power shot toward him, cknail threw himself sideways. He managed to dodge the attack by inches, but the swirling air around the st knocked him off bnce. He staggered for a moment, before recovering and resuming his charge.


    A mass of a dozen boggarts formed a line in front of cknail, but he didnt slow. Instead, cknail threw a wave of terror inducing mana at them, cut two down, and then pushed straight through the rest. Now, there was nothing between him and the mage.


    Caught off guard, the boggart spellcaster hurriedly tried to shoot another force st at cknail, but the hobgoblin was quicker. He grabbed a nearby boggart and tossed it at the mage. The creature squealed as it flew through the air. This surprised the mage, throwing his aim off. His magical st hit the worker, sending it flying, and then zipped harmlessly past cknail.


    Sensing sweet victory, cknail grinned as he lunged forward and shed at the mage with a fierce two-handed swing. His de came down on his opponents staff, knocking it aside. A swift follow-up sh then nted cknails de in the boggarts torso. It spasmed and made a gurgling sound as the hobgoblin pulled his de free, and then it flopped over.


    The fight was far from over though. Turning around, cknail saw that his minions and the local guards were still fighting a lot of boggart workers. Several tall ck warriors had also appeared from somewhere. Growling angrily, cknail headed back to help his minions and Khita. He wasnt too worried about himself, but there were so many enemies that he was probably going to lose a lot of minions before the battle was over. He really hadnt expected the boggarts to be here in such force. They were supposed to relying on the gue to destroy the city.


    Over to cknails right, a group of a dozen workers ran out of a building. They were headed right for Herah, so cknail quickly intercepted them. Charging among them, he hacked and shed at the ck figures until they were forced to stop and deal with him. One jumped at cknail, but he reached out and caught it in mid-air, dashed it against the ground, and then stomped on it for good measure. A quick st of magical fear then sent the survivors of the group skittering back into the shadows.


    With the nearby boggarts all fleeing, cknail had a clear path to rejoin his minions. They were struggling against a mob of boggarts that outnumbered them two to one, including a single warrior. That didntst though. cknail hit the back of the boggarts like a charging boar. He screamed as heunched a savage horizontal sh at the warriors back. His de cut down, smashing through carapace and parting the flesh beneath it. The force of the blow knocked the creature over, and the de continued on, hitting a boggart worker. Pulling his sword back up, cknail stepped over the fallen boggarts and rejoined his allies. His presence quickly turned the fight against the boggarts, and more of them began to fall.


    There was no shortage of reinforcements for the swarm of ck creatures though. Other groups of guardsmen in red went down under mobs of vicious ck boggarts, and more were still emerging from the shadows to join the fight. Slowly, the ck tide began to push cknail and his allies back.


    A hobgoblin to cknails left fell as a boggartnded on his back. Reacting quickly, Balcknail stabbed the creature in the side and tossed its twitching carcass away. He then kicked another worker that tried to gore the fallen hobgoblin, which gave him time to reach down and pull the hobgoblin back to safety, where he could recover. As the fight continued, cknail found himself having to focus more and more on protecting his minions as they grew tired from the boggarts'' endless assault. This couldntst. Soon, they would be overwhelmed, but there was little cknail could do but keep fighting. He didnt have nearly enough mana to use fear magic constantly. His core already felt low on power.


    Beside cknail, Herah suddenly slipped on some wet boggart blood. As she fell, he caught her and used his arm to block a boggart that tried to bite her face. Herahs face was one of cknails favourite parts of her, so he didnt want it damaged.


    The boggarts fangs pierced cknails thick leather jacket, but only barely. Growling in anger and pain, cknail swung the creature around and used it to smack another boggart out of the air. Herah then put a dagger in the boggarts eye and it came loose.


    That was when a new swarm of boggarts appeared and charged toward the hobgoblins'' nk. cknail grimaced in frustration. He couldnt be everywhere. This was going to hurt his minions a lot. In fact, it might be time to consider grabbing his most useful minions and retreating before he got encircled.


    cknails cynical thoughts were interrupted by a fresh bout of yelling from down the street. The voices sounded both very human and quite angry. It also sounded like there were more than few of them. ncing over that way, cknail saw a wave of heavily armed humans charge down the street and m into the boggarts. Most of the men were wearing the red uniforms of the Governors men, but there were more than a few men who looked like generic ruffians and bandits mixed among them.


    The massed line of heavily armed humans hit the smaller boggarts hard and immediately began pushing them back and trampling them. The gathered mobs of boggarts that filled the streets hesitated under this new assault. Their own attacks faltered as they tried to adjust and figure out what was happening. cknail took advantage of this pause to lunge forward and began cutting down every boggart within striking distance. Half a dozen fell within a few moments, but then the swarm finally reacted. As one, all the boggarts suddenly turned to flee. They scuttled away into the shadows, leaving their backs exposed, but cknail let them go. His own troops were exhausted, and in no shape to give chase. Several copsed the moment it looked like the fighting was over.


    The human force that had just arrived spilled past cknail and moved to seize control of the streets. cknail eyed them warily and had his minions back up against an alley so that they had an escape route, but they werent attacked. cknail had thought that unlikely, but it was better to be safe when unpredictable humans were involved.


    Soon, the Governor and Luphera appeared, and a squad of men escorted them over to cknail. Interestingly enough, they both had their own guards. The Governor was surrounded by his soldiers in red, while Luphera was protected by severalrge men in ck, who resembled the other human fighters who joined the battle. It seemed like Luphera had brought her own troops.


    Whats the situation here? Ive ordered my men to stay away from all the buildings, lest they be exposed to the gue, the Governor said as he met up with cknail, who was hard to miss thanks to his height and horns.


    I was right. There are ghouls and boggarts here, cknail bragged. I just saved your city.


    The Governor frowned and looked down at one of the nearby boggart worker corpses, of which there was no shortage of. So, I see.


    We did just rescue you in turn, Luphera pointed out, which earned her a nasty re from Herah.


    Without me and my hobs youll all get the gue and die, cknail huffed in reply. Hed been paying close attention to Luphera - her face, not her other more distracting parts, like her huge breasts  and he was certain he knew why she was being so difficult. It was an act.


    Luphera sighed over-dramatically and nodded. That does seem to be true, so lets get down to business, shall we? We all have a lot to do if we want to save the city.


    Yes, please tell us exactly what happened here. This situation needs contained, the Governor added as he followed Lupheras lead. As the man was talking, cknail saw Luphera turn and give him a wink. Yes, she was definitely ying a game here. Shed also noticed that hed noticed, or something.


    cknail felt a headacheing on. Human social interactions could be far tooplex. Honestly, he wanted to stab someone, because that would simplify everything in a way hobgoblins naturally understood. There was also nothing like the iron scent of blood to clear the mind.


    Turning away from Luphera, cknail quickly exined the situation to the Governor.


    Well, it does seem like we will require your services if we are to face this new threat, the Governor admitted after cknail had finished speaking.


    Without a doubt, Luphera agreed solemnly. She then turned to give cknail a subtle grin. It seems like Daggerpoint is going to be undergoing some changes.


    The Governor turned to her, and her poker face instantly reappeared. So, you will support me if I attempt to uphold the newws required for our treaty with cknail to work?


    Luphera nodded. I will, and Im sure I can convince some of the chiefs to go along.


    cknail watched Luphera out of the corner of his eye. It seemed like she wanted cknails forces in the city for some reason, and she didnt want the Governor to know that. Well, he was just d she was his ally, probably. Had her hostile behavior toward Herah also been some sort of maniption? Ugh, he had no idea. This was why he avoided Luphera, or one of the reasons anyway.


    The Governor sighed. Then, I suppose we shall soon see what fate the gods have in store for us in these dark times.


    I have arge force of hobgoblins arriving soon, cknail told the humans. They should be able to hunt down any ghouls that the boggarts create and fight off any more boggart attacks as long as you support them. They will need food and probably some money too.


    This alliance is sounding more and more like an upation, the Governor muttered to himself.


    Im sure we can afford to pay these forces a basic amount for their services, Luphera reassured the man. Im sure they wont demand much.


    What about you? Luphera asked cknail. How long will you be staying?


    Not long. Im very important and Im needed elsewhere, he answered.


    Oh, then who will be leading the troops you leave behind?


    One of my smartest hobgoblins, and he will have several human helpers.


    Luphera grinned eagerly. I cant wait to meet them.


    cknail frowned. Hmmm

 Interlude: Where It All Began

    Interlude: Where It All Began


    The ruins stretched on as far as the eye could see. A once mighty city that had been brought low some time ago. Broken buildingsy alongside shattered streets and fallen towers. nts and bushes grew wild and thick among the ruins. Bits of snow still also clung to ground in the shadows, although most it had long since melted in the sunlight. The air here was heavy and cold though, eerily so.


    It was also silent. There was no twittering birdsong or other animal sounds. There was no hint of human activity either. Although some buildings looked intact, there was noughter or tter of industry. All was unnaturally silent.


    Then, a sound like a mighty wind echoing through a canyon reverberated through the ruins, blowing swirls of dust and rustling the leaves of the scraggly trees growing through the stone, as it bellowed out from the remains of a fort-like building near the center of the city. There, a huge gaping hole had been torn though one of its thick stone walls that wasrge enough for an ogre to walk through.


    Only a little light from the dim sun up in the sky managed to find its way inside the building, so it was dark and shadowy within. However, as another rasping breath echoed out, there was movement from inside as something massive stirred.


    A single eye flickered open in the darkness. The size of a human head, it glowed as it reflected the remnants of light from outside. Lethargically, the slited pupil at the center of the eye swerved to take in its surroundings as if the creature it belonged to had just woken from a long sleep.


    Rubble began to shift and tter as the beast rose to its feet, and there was a sh of grey scales as they caught the light. The massive drake growled loudly enough for the air to tremble as it stepped outside into the ruins of the once grand city. Rows of jagged crystals ran down its back, marking it as a child of magic and something far more than most of its lesser kin. As the humongous beast surveyed its devastated domain, its belly rumbled like a storm that was about to break. Feeling the pain of hunger, it hissed in annoyance and unleashed a small burst of magic. Immediately, the crystals on its back glowed faintly and a wave of cold washed forth. The air crackled as all the moisture in it froze and white frost crept across all the nearby weathered stone. Its frustration vented, the great beast began to walk down the street in search of the sustenance it craved.


    The world watched in terrified silence. For the greatest enemy of man, the true tyrant of the North, the Doom of Coroulis had awoken and it was time for him to hunt.

 Bane of Humanity 1

    Bane of Humanity 1


    There were two guards standing outside the gates of the castle. Both of them were wearing bright chainmail with purple tabards over it. They also wore steel caps that reflected the light from the setting sun off in this distance. This made them some the cleanest and fanciest soldiers cknail had ever seen. Looking clean seemed to be as important to them as actually guarding the gate, maybe more, considering how bored they looked and how unobservant they were being.


    Neither guard noticed cknails approach until he was right on top of them. One second, the road leading to the castle was empty, and they were having an uneventful day, the next, there was inhuman creature looming over them.


    I have been invited, cknail announced. He was dressed in his best armor and wearing his best cloak, which had been made from a mutant wolf hed in. The setting sun was behind him, so his face was dark and his antlers caught the light and cast a mess of creepy shadows.


    Holy gods! one of the guardsman yelped as he jumped back. The other simply froze and stared at the dark figure before him with wide eyes full of terror.


    I am cknail, and I have been invited by your leaders, the hobgoblin told them. He was used to this. Most humans needed to be told everything repeatedly. It took several long seconds for the guardsman to process this, which was another annoying human trait.


    One guard fumbled with his sword, but cknail simply stepped forward and put a hand on the mans arm so that he couldnt draw his weapon. Bad idea.


    The other guard hesitated but then recognition appeared in his eyes and he rxed a little. Right, we were told about you.


    So, are you going to let me in? cknail asked.


    The guards looked at each other uncertainly. Letting a huge hobgoblin in through the front gate seemed like the exact opposite of their usual duty.


    I suppose thats what we were ordered to do if you showed up, one of them remarked a few secondster.


    Good, then open the gates, cknail replied with forced patience. He wasnt here to talk to these idiots but smacking them around wouldnt help. If anything, it would make them stupider.


    One of the guards hesitantly walked over to the gate. Once he was there, a head-high slot opened and he began talking to someone on the other side. This went on for a while, so cknail sighed and studied his surroundings.


    The castle that loomed behind the two guards was quite impressive, and like nothing cknail had ever seen before. Its outer walls were not only taller than any other hed seen, but they were made from thick stone that fit together remarkably smoothly. They looked like they would resist even the most powerful of magical sts or even a charge by a horde of ogres.


    All the pointy towers that had been built on the wall were also imposing. Anyone within them would have amanding view of the area around the castle, which had been built next to the only trail that went through a series of very rugged hills.


    The keep rose up from inside the outer walls. Made up of more stone, it was squarish in shape except for its triangr roof and five towers. There was a tower on each corner of the square, and one taller one in the center. All in all, it had a very simple and functional design. This building was a defensive structure meant to repel invaders, not look pretty.


    It would have been very difficult for cknail to take this castle with his troops. Sure, he might be able to sneak over the outer wall and open the gate after fighting the guards, but even if his minions took the outer walls, the keep in the center could easily be sealed up tight. Against a determined force of human defenders, it would be next to impossible to conquer.


    Yes, this castle was very different from the crude fortifications that most settlements in the North used. That was to be expected though. This castle had been designed to stop real armies, not just forest beasts and bandits. Also, everything humans made in the South was supposed to be bigger and better, and this castle was located on the northern border of Eloria. Technically, once he was inside the castle, cknail would no longer be in the North.


    The guards were still debating someone on the other side of the door, so cknail sighed and let his thoughts wander. The march here from Daggerpoint hadnt taken that long, but theyd had to move quickly to get here in time for the meeting. Not that hed minded leaving Daggerpoint as quickly as possible. The friction between Herah and Luphera had grown worse until it was quite ufortable for him. cknail wasnt even sure why they were fighting. He wasnt interested in Luphera anymore, and even if he had been, there was more than enough of him to go around.


    Anyway, cknail had ended up leaving quite a few troops in Daggerpoint, and had decided against leaving anyone important in charge of them. Whoever he left, theyd just end up doing what Luphera wanted anyway. Thankfully, her interests seemed to align with cknails, so he didnt need to kill her. He had more important things to deal with than her games, like boggarts and Werrick. That was why he was standing in front of this impressive heap of stone.


    Finally, the guards finished their conversation and the gates began to creak open. cknail waited until they werepletely open, and then he turned and motioned toward a nearby hill. Immediately, over a dozen figures detached themselves from the shadows and followed him in through the gates. The guards jumped in surprise again, but a re from cknail  backed by a little fear magic - made them both instantly shut their mouths and go rigid with fear. They said nothing as a dozen hobgoblins and three humans made their way into the castle. There were more guards on the inside, but they either decided that the hobgoblins had all been invited in or that this wasnt their problem.


    Please wait here, someone will be along meet you soon, one the guards told the newly arrived party, and cknail gave him a nod in reply.


    Khita stepped forward peered around the gatehouse. Ive never been in a castle before. Slums and city markets were more my thing.


    I defended a castle out on the eastern border during a siege once, back when I was in the army, but we conscripts were never let in the keep itself, Ralphi said.


    I visited one or two for family business when I was young, Geralhd added. There usually isnt much to them. Just a lot of stone corridors and drafty halls.


    cknail nodded. Lots and lots of stones. Im actually impressed that someone got a bunch of humans to do this much work.


    The nobles definitely know how to motivate themon folk, Ralphi remarked sourly.


    cknail looked over at him and gave him an interested look. Oh, how do they do that? He could always use more efficient humans.


    Ralphi just sighed. Never you mind. Its not important.


    Before cknail could press the point further, he was distracted by the arrival of someone new, a man in neat purple clothing.


    cknail the hobgoblin, I presume? the man asked. He had a very emotionless manner and rigid posture.


    Yep, thats me. I can show you my ck toenail if you want, cknail answered with a smile. He was rather proud of his ck toenail. It was why Saeter had given him his name.


    A hint of grimace briefly shed across the mans face. No, that wont be necessary.


    Your loss, the hobgoblin remarked with a shrug. The man had just lost his only chance to see the toe that terrified the North.


    Perhaps. Im to escort you to see the royal councilor. He wishes to speak with you. Please leave your weapons here.


    Geralhd coughed politely as he stepped forward and gave a little bow. We would be very grateful for your service. Please lead the way.


    cknail just nodded along. As a mutant, he wasnt too worried about being disarmed, and Geralhd probably knew what he was doing since he was the fancy human ceremony expert. cknail had just been making everything up as he went along, which only worked because he was so amazing at everything.


    After everyone had handed over most of their weapons to the gate guards - cknail knew several of his party still had daggers hidden away - the herald began leading the group of hobgoblins toward the keep. They exited the gatehouse and went through the courtyard before reaching the main entrance to the central keep. There were a lot of human troops around, more than cknail had expected to see. The soldiers manned the walls and could be seen moving through the dusty courtyard on various tasks. It seemed like there was a small army stationed here right now.


    Passing some more guards, the herald led cknails group into the keep. It was made from the same cut grey stone, but now there were tapestries and glimmering mage lights on the walls. They also passed the asional servant, who all fled once they noticed cknail.


    After a little walking, they arrived at a small sitting room with a closed door on the far wall. Fancy tapestries featuring roaring lions and human knights decorated the walls. cknail also saw one featuring a harpy with wings outstretched and a very human face, but there was a conspicuousck of hobgoblins. Well, it wasnt like humans were known for their good taste. At least, there were plenty of soft-looking chairs and couches present.


    Please be seated here, the lord will call for you soon, the herald announced as he made a slight bow and then disappeared back the way theyde.


    With nothing better to do, the group of hobgoblins and former bandits sat down on the avable chairs. There was enough for all of them as long as they squeezed as many hobgoblins as possible onto the two couches. cknail and his lieutenants all got their ownfy chairs, of course. The hobgoblin settled down to wait as his minions began to mutter among themselves, and twenty minutes went by without any word from their host.


    Why did that purple man bring us here just to sit around and do nothing? cknail asked his humans after his patience wore out.


    Geralhd sighed. I believe hes asserting his authority over us by showing us that he can keep us waiting. Its a verymon tactic for humans, especially among the nobility, who get off on these sort of petty power games.


    There was a grunt of agreement from Ralphi, and cknail frowned thoughtfully.


    That seems rather rude, cknail announced as he got up and walked over to the closed door. A quick jiggle of the handle revealed that it was locked.


    What are you doing? Geralhd asked in concern.


    Im being as petty as possible to win the game, cknail replied as he began knocking on the door.


    Thats not how it works


    cknail kept knocking for several long moments, until there was a click as someone unlocked the door from the other side. A momentter, it opened slightly and a young man in the same purple outfit as the herald peeked out. He flinched visibly when cknail leaned sideways to meet his gaze  they were only about a foot apart  but he didnt withdraw.


    Yes, can I help you? the servant inquired with a stutter. It looked like he was trying to be angry but was way too scared to pull it off properly.


    Sensing weakness, cknail leered at him. Is the noble guy Im supposed to meet in there?


    Er, yes, but hes busy. Please, wait until hes ready.


    No, Im busy too, cknail replied as he reached out and pushed the man out of the way, so that he could peer into the next room.


    It was a small chamber with arge wooden table in the center. There were four people around the table. An older man, two guards, and one other that cknail recognized instantly. It was Sir Masnin. All of the upants of the room were staring at the intruding hobgoblin, so cknail gave the pdin a friendly wave.


    There was a deep sigh from the elderly man standing next to Sir Masnin who was wearing a long purple robe with silver trim. Very well, just let the hobgoblin in. Were just about ready for him anyway.


    The servant cknail had pushed out of the way nodded at the elderly man. He thenposed himself and turned to the hobgoblin. You may enter and attend the lord. Your retinue must wait outside though.


    cknail eyed the servant. He found it highly amusing that the man little thought he could tell him anything. I need one of my men toe in and be a trantor.


    The servant scowled. Yourmand of the Elorian tongue seems more than adequate to me."


    I dont need him to trante words, cknail exined with a sigh. I need him to tell me what humans mean. Your thoughts are all squishy and hard to understand.


    Squishy?


    Yes, like mushrooms or pie.


    The servant considered this for a moment, but only appeared to grow more confused the more he thought about it, until it looked like his eyes were trying to go off in different directions. He nced toward the noble, who rolled his eyes and nodded.


    Er, very well, the servant conceded as his neutral expression reappeared. He was obviously far morefortable with taking orders than thinking for himself. Humans, they epted authority too easily and werent properly ambitious like hobgoblins.


    Geralhd, get in here, cknail told his human minion before he stepped into the room


    Smiling in what he hoped was a friendly manner, and not hungry-looking, the hobgoblin approached the table. Hello, nice to meet you.


    The man in the robe gave the hobgoblin a tight smile. So, youre the infamous cknail. I must admit that Id been looking forward to meeting you in person. Its not every day that I encounter such a unique individual.


    Well, now you have, cknail replied. He felt like he should say more, but human small talk wasnt one of his strengths. Why did you invite me here? Its a nice castle, but you probably want something, right?


    Gerahd suddenly stepped up beside cknail  and slightly in front of him - and bowed. Greetings, lord. My I have the honor of knowing who I am addressing?


    The noble nodded. I am Lord Lavista of the Kings Council. You may rise.


    Geralhd stood up straight asmanded. Excuse mypanion. He is not schooled in the proper etiquette.


    Ya, thats true, cknail agreed. He wasnt even entirely sure what etiquette was. Something about not eating with your hands?


    I was not expecting you to be, the noble told the hobgoblin. Honestly, your own station is not entirely clear because of the novel nature of your existence. Thus, for now, you operate outside of normal social interactions anyway.


    cknail was fairly certain that was a good thing, but just in case, he replied only with a vague nod.


    Regardless, more pressing matters seek our attention, and I can thus put up with some ignorance of protocols in the name of expediency, the noble continued. You are thest of the invitees to arrive for this summit, and there is no reason to dy it any longer, so I summoned everyone to the council chamber a while ago. Sir Masnin  whose opinion I trust  tells me that you can be worked with and trusted to adhere to simple bargains. However, I did want to converse with you before we met up with the others so that I could take your measure for myself. Due to the unprecedented crises facing my nation, I have been given theplete authority of the crown. Still, the uing negotiations will be difficult, even disregardingplete unknowns like you and your faction.


    As the noble finished talking, Sir Masnin spoke to cknail. Ive informed the lord about all our interactions and what I know of the situation here in the North. It is far moreplex than he had suspected. Down south, they tend to ignore everything that happens up here.


    Lord Lavista nodded. That ignorance might have cost us dearly, especially since some say the ck demons originated from these parts, but Sir Masnin has informed me of most of what I need to know about local conditions and actors. However, despite his good descriptions of certain aspects of your character, you still remain the most unpredictable and mysterious of the locals. I am told you control significant territory and have ess to far more resources than most would suspect. What is it that you want?


    cknail really wanted to kill Werrick, who was probably in this castle right now. Even now, the fervent desire ate away at the hobgoblins insides like ck boiling acid. He wanted nothing nearly so much as to see the man die horribly and then to chop the mans body up for trophies. The hobgoblin wasnt sure if he should admit this though. He hesitated. Would they ept shiny things as an answer?


    Thankfully, Geralhd once again proved his use and covered for cknails hesitation. Allow me to give some small answer here. I have spent quite some time among cknail and his kin, and let me assure you, theyre not so different from the human denizens of the North. Although primitive, they simply seek to better their lives and learn from humans so that they may live as well as we do. cknail himself is merely following in the footsteps of his now deceased mistress Herad.


    cknail smiled. That wasnt entirely true. Living easier and better was nice, theyd upied himpletely as a goblin, but turning into a hobgoblin had changed that. Now he thirsted for the hunt and conquest far more thanforts. cknail had built his tribe and was copying humans in order to forge soldiers and weapons that would help him kill Werrick. Still, it was a better answer than he could havee up with. It seemed like Geralhd thought that they should pretend to be simple bandits. cknail would y along. They werent sure what this noble wanted yet after all, so it would be best to give him what he expected.


    Yes, I simply want to keep the territory Ive taken and trade with you humans. I cant do that if boggarts kill everyone, he told the noble.


    The noble frowned subtly and studied cknail. He didnt seem entirely convinced, but cknail just kept smiling as disarmingly as possible. He knew it was difficult for most humans to read him, or even stare at his face for too long.


    How very wise of you, the man finally remarked as he grimaced and looked away. Very well, thank you for humoring my enquiries. Head back to the sitting room. A servant will take you to the council chamber now, where I will address everyone.


    As you wish, lord, Geralhd immediately replied with another bow.


    cknail stayed standing straight, but he let Geralhd pull him back toward the sitting room. Once there, Geralhd turned to the hobgoblin, rubbed his forehead, and groaned. You only got away with that discourtesy because they need you, and Lord Lavista considers you little better than a violent savage that couldnt know better.


    I am a violent savage, so they better not leave me to wait in any more empty rooms, cknail huffed in reply.


    Thats not how it works.


    However, before Geralhd could argue any more, a servant appeared and began leading them down another corridor. They didnt have to go far, and soon they walked through a doorway and entered arge antechamber. The room was full of colorful hangings and impressive furniture. There were also lots of humans present, but cknails gaze was drawn to one man in particr. Werrick. cknail growled as heid eyes on his mortal enemy and rage surged up within him.

 Bane of Humanity 2

    Bane of Humanity 2


    There were two armed guards on either side of the door cknail had just walked through, and hed been disarmed. Thus, he didnt immediately charge Werrick, despite the rage that had suddenly boiled up within him. He took a deep calming breath instead. Vengeance would be his eventually, as long as he stayed in control of his emotions.


    Werrick was seated at a table that dominated the middle of the room. It was oddly shaped, like a half-circle. Over a dozen chairs sat all along the round edge, while only a single one had been ced in the middle of the straight side. Since Lord Lavista was upying that lone chair, and facing all the others, cknail assumed this was another human intimidation thing, and promptly chose to ignore it. He was unimpressed. It was rather weakpared to the normal hobgoblin intimidation technique of killing someone and impaling their head on a stick.


    Please have a seat at the table. Your escorts can sit at one of the side tables, the servant that had led cknail into the room said as he motioned to the side. There were several small tables scattered at both ends of the room. Some of them were empty, but there were people sitting at others. They had the look of minions, so cknail ignored them and turned back to Werrick.


    Your trantor can also join us, Lord Lavista added from where he was sitting. He had two guards standing behind his chair, and one of them was Sir Masnin.


    I want to sit at the big table with the important people, Khita said. Im one of cknails most important lieutenants and deadliest fighters, after all. Soon, I will rule a massive territory of my own, and everyone will tremble at the mention of my name!


    Not a chance, Ralphi snorted as he grabbed her shoulder and dragged her over to an empty table. Theres already way too much that could go wrong here for my liking, even without you introducing your particr brand of messy stupidity. Everyone else in cknails group except for Geralhd followed them to the table.


    Werrick looked different than thest time cknail had seen him, mostly because he wasnt wearing armor or his wolf helm. Instead, his clothing didnt stand out from any of the other people at the table. He wore a grey shirt and some ck trousers that looked simple but stylish. cknail guessed that he was trying to fit in among the other humans from the south. His rough face and prating gaze made him stand out though, especially now that he was scowling at cknail. The hobgoblin met his gaze and grinned savagely.


    Despite his resolve, Werrick flinched at the raw hunger that shone through cknails eyes. He quickly recovered, but he was clearly rattled by the hobgoblins appearance. That was to be expected. Thest time the two had met, Werrick had cut down cknail and left him for dead on a battlefield. However, not only had cknail survived, but it was that brush with death that had triggered the hobgoblins transformation into a mutant. cknail was significantlyrger and more dangerous now. The fires of his hatred also burned stronger.


    Ah, youre alive after all, Werrick remarked. Hobgoblins must be made of different stuff than men.


    Im just special, cknail replied.


    So, I can see, Werrick said as he nced at the hobgoblins horns. Ill have to keep that in mind.


    You wont have to worry about it for long


    Lord Lavista interrupted the pairs staring contest. cknail, please have a seat so that we may begin the meeting.


    Hmm, sure, the hobgoblin replied as he turned his attention to the other people at the table.


    Two were clearly mages from two different guilds. Their amulets and robes marked them as human spellcasters. There was also a man who was clearly a priest and quite a few people that looked like nobles of some sort. Some of them were dressed in frilly and colorful clothing that made what Geralhd usually wore look in, but some wore more practical clothing that marked them as having martial experience. Except for Werrick and sir Masnin, cknail was sure he could take them all.


    I dont think it will matter who we sit next to, Geralhd whispered. None of these people are likely to see us as peers or treat us courteously. Just choose a random ce.


    Nodding, cknail led Geralhd toward the closest two empty chairs. As he moved, he considered his next move. He knew he had one huge advantage over Werrick here, he didnt care what these southern humans thought of him at all. They were idiots, and he only needed their cooperation in the short term, while Werrick was obviously nning on starting a permanent rtionship with them. That had always been the Wolfs n to cement his rule, but cknail had other resources he could tap.


    Suddenly one young noble in a red jacket spoke up as cknail walked past him. Were dealing with disgusting savages now? I must protest!


    Oh, good. A challenge! Smiling to himself, cknail stopped and turned to look at the man. There wasplete silence from everyone else in the room as most people tensed up expectantly. Even Lord Lavista seemed willing to wait and see what cknail did.


    Sneering, the noble that had insulted cknail raised a hand as if to punctuate his next words, but cknail acted first. Quickly and smoothly, he stepped closer and leaned down so that his face was only a foot away from nobles. Then, he grinned savagely as he seized an invisible blob of magic from his core and mmed into the mans mind like it was an iron spike.


    Move, cknail hissed right before the man squealed and toppled over backward.


    The magical terror had caught the manpletely off guard ripped into his mind without resistance, overwhelming him and making incapable of controlling the fear that now surged within him.


    The stupid noble hit the floor back-first and then scrambled away. Still smiling, cknail simply grabbed the mans chair and pulled it closer.


    Thanks for the seat, cknail giggled as he sat down. Geralhd sighed and took the seat next to him that had also suddenly be vacant.


    Looking around the table, cknail saw that most the humans present were studying him. Their expression varied from shock to outright hostility. Lord Lavista was the only person present who hadnt really reacted to his little disy at all. He still had a carefully neutral expression that conveyed authority and control.


    Now, let the conference officially begin, Lavisita announced as he stood up and gave everyone before him a cursory examination. You all know why you are here. A time of great trial and tragedy has engulfed Eloria. The gue threatens all of humanity and it is being spread by these ck creatures that some call boggarts.


    Has that actually been confirmed? one noble asked respectfully.


    Yes, beyond a doubt. Our agents have observed them transporting diseased flesh and captured ghouls from city to city in order to weaken us for invasion, the lord answered. It is no coincidence that our forces engaged in fighting the gue are ambushed by boggarts either.


    There was murmuring from gathered humans as they took in this information.


    So, why are you here dealing with us? Shouldnt you be back at home fighting these things? someone eventually asked. I cant see how the answer to your problem lies in the North, and youve never cared about thisnd before.


    The Kings representative simply nodded in acknowledgement. That is true. However, this is everyones problem, and we are reaching out to all our neighbors. Weve even ended all conflict with Hulgaron. Communication is ongoing, but it seems likely that a full peace treaty will be signed soon.


    This caused everyone to begin talking amongst themselves even more. Geralhd whistled as if impressed. I suppose it would take something as catastrophic as a massive gue outbreak and an invasion by unknown monsters to stop that war. The death of countless thousands certainly didnt seem to concern them much. I suppose even the nobles realize they need some peasants alive to rule over and that the gue wont discriminate against blue blood.


    Oblivious to what Geralhd was whispering, a porky noble in a frilly red shirt spoke up. But what brings someone so high in the kings esteem here to see us? Many of us are already owe Eloria our fealty and the others are no real threat to the realm, especially now.


    I am here for several reason. First, Ie seeking information. Rumor and spection say that the boggarts emerged from the North, the councilor replied.


    If anything, it seems there are less boggarts in the North, a stern looking older noble replied.


    The fat man in red shrugged. Maybe they dont like the cold.


    How bad is it near the capital, I havent heard any details. What exactly are we dealing with? someone else enquired.


    This time it was Sir Masnin that answered. He looked sullen as he spoke. Almost every city of note is struggling to contain a full ghoul outbreak, while raids by boggarts striking from below ground weaken us. Already, the city of Persepulis has fallen to the dread gue and the royal army was forced to set it ame to contain the infection and prevent a horde of ghouls from being released on the countryside. Many other cities are predicted to fall soon as well if nothing changes.


    There was deathly silence as everyone contemted the pdins words. Many of the humans looked pale. Even Werrick looked shocked by the dire straits of the southern cities. cknail wished he could have been there to see the fire. He had always wanted to see what a human city would look like after being set ame.


    And the boggarts arent content to simply let the gue devour us either, the elderly councilor added. Our scouts report that the creatures are building structures above ground. They are consuming everything from timber to farm animals in order to build settlements of some unknown ck material. Where once there were farming viges, now eerie ck spires are beginning to rise.


    And the royal army is doing nothing? a noble asked in disbelief.


    They were caught off guard by this sudden attack, Sir Masnin exined. As you can imagine, most of the army was stationed at the border or actively engaging in action against the Hulgarons when the gue first appeared. They were swiftly withdrawn to help contain the outbreak but are now busy with that duty and have no time to spare to assault these new fortifications.


    These creatures seemed to have nned this all disturbingly well, a scowling noble with a military bearing observed.


    Yes, we are not dealing with mindless beasts here. This is a well-organized campaign by minds that understand long-term nning.


    The fat noble looked very nervous now. What can we do against that? No one here has armies to spare, despite out rtively secure position here. If the gue does strike, we will have a demons time just containing it.


    Lord Lavista nodded. Yes, but the council hase up with a n that will require your aid. Thus, as our first order of business, I would like to secure everyone heres cooperation and get an official oath of alliance. Eloria will reward you handsomely for your effort, of course.


    Everyone began talking amongst themselves again. cknail couldnt help but notice that the old man hadnt specified what aid he actually wanted. The hobgoblin was thus willing to bet his weight in cheese that it was going to be costly or incredibly dangerous. It would be best not to get tricked into making any promises.


    Suddenly, Werrick broke his silence. Thats why Im here. Your messenger mentioned getting official crown recognition of thends I hold. Is that still on the table?


    There was a nod from the councilor. Yes, take the oath and the king will acknowledge your holdings and grant you title over them.


    Youre a bandit and a murderer. You shouldnt be demanding anything of the nobility, a southern lord huffed dismissively at Werrick. He was a middle-aged man who was starting to go bald, but he was wearing more jewelry than anyone else, as if to disy his wealth.


    Now, lets not be to hasty. Someone as useful and powerful as the Wolf would make a great ally, regardless of the situation, a younger - and less impressively dressed - noble countered. What does recognition really cost the crown? Nothing.


    Bah, youre simply saying that because you basically work for the Wolf there already. Dont think I dont know about the deal youve made with him or the gold he sends your way. Dealing with bandits, despicable!


    Many of the nobles began arguing. cknail watched with interest. It appeared that Werrick had a lot of influence on the poorer northern lords, but that most the southern lords looked down on him. Of course, cknail was unpopr with everyone, so he was in an even worse position. Lord Lavista also noticed the pull Werrick had with certain parts of the nobility, and he didnt appear to like it. He frowned thoughtfully as he studied the bandit lord, who seemed willing to let others argue his case for him now.


    What about that green savage sitting right over there! someone suddenly yelled, drawing cknails attention. Surely, having someone like the Wolf on the border is a much better option than letting an inhuman monster like him squat there. Why is such a creature even here?


    Off to the side, Werrick smiled. cknail was fairly certain this noble was acting under the Wolfs orders.


    Lord Lavista quickly spoke up though. The hobgoblin is here because I wish it. He is a power in the North, as well as a vital source of information. In fact, I have heard that he engaged the boggart creatures in battle and vanquished them before they evenunched their campaign against Eloria.


    A noble sniffed disdainfully. Of course, the monster knows much about other monsters.


    cknail said nothing. No one had actually asked him a question yet, and he was busy studying all the humans. They were all looking at him now, including Werrick who was nodding in sudden understanding. He seemed to have made some connections.


    The kings councilor didnt remain silent for long. Now, before I go on, I must get oaths of alliance from you. We will be discussing many secrets and vital ns, and those that refuse the oath must leave.


    King Namirius already has my allegiance. My sword is yours, to do with as you will, one noble immediately replied as he stood up and gave the older man a formal bow. Several others immediately did the same before sitting back down.


    If you hold to you word then I will aid you, Werrick added. We should stick together in these hard times regardless.


    What about us border nobles that already havend and title. What are you offering us? a scowling man in shabby clothing asked.


    When this time of chaos is over, there will be plenty ofnd where the owners have fled or been lost to the gue. Those that aid the king can expect first im when thesends are reassigned.


    This offer quickly got the rest of the attendees to offer the councilor their allegiance, which left only cknail. Lavista gave the hobgoblin an enquiring look, but cknail kept his mouth shut. He was probably necessary for Lavistas n, so there was no chance of him being kicked out. He could afford to y it safe and not offer any sort of promise that couldnd him in troubleter. Hed hate to have to lie or murder someone to get out of a badly thought out promise.


    When everyone else had agreed to the oath, the elderly councilor looked toward cknail, and everyone else followed his gaze. To start, would you tell us about your sh with the boggarts and all youve learned about them?


    Frowning, cknail considered this question. After being insulted so much he wasnt feeling very helpful, but Lord Lavisita seemed to be the only person here whos opinion really mattered. Being unpopr with the other nobles wouldnt affect his n at all.


    Alright, cknail replied a few momentster. I ran into boggarts several timesst year, but it was this winter that that I first really fought with them. It doesnt count as a real fight unless people on both sides die.


    It took cknail quite a while to finish recounting his battle against the boggarts, especially since he had to go into so much detail about his own fighting skills and how hed used them to turn the tide of battle several times. He was amazing.


    Also, he had to remember to leave a lot of things out of the story, like about the specific types of magic his mages wielded and about the forest people and lurkers. That stuff would just have distracted the humans, and he didnt want Werrick knowing of all his capabilities.


    And were supposed to believe this fairy tale is even remotely rted to the truth? a noble asked in an exasperated tone once cknail was finished. There were murmurs of agreement from many of the other people present.


    Lavista quieted them with a re. Several parts of my guests tale have been independently verified, and it also contains scraps of knowledge about the boggarts that weve only recently discovered ourselves. For instance, some of our agents have sighted these humanoid boggarts from a distance. I would not have wasted your time with this story if I didnt believe it to be true.


    I find all this mention of uncontrolled magic disturbing, even if it is in inhuman hands, one of the mages remarked.


    The fat noble in red make a thoughtful noise. The hobgoblins story would exin why the creatures are rarer in the North, which no one else has an exnation for.


    In fact, the closer you get to this cknails territory the less reports of boggart activity you get, the militaristic noble added.


    Yes, because I hunted the boggarts down through the dark paths and ughtered them in their nest like vermin, cknail exined as he rolled his eyes.


    But why havent they moved against the North since then?


    They are probably busy fighting you now. Also, they need food, like everyone else. I destroyed the underground farm near their nest and my hunters kill the scavengers they send out into the Green. They cant grow an army without food.


    They might have trouble moving one without readily avable scavenge as well.


    Yes, well none of us are in any position to flood the dark paths with troops or even send hunters out on mass to stalk the Green. That would be folly. The dark paths are no ce for men.


    And most humans make terrible rangers and hunters, cknail added helpfully.


    Some cities use goblins to keep sewers clean of sewers. Could we use hobgoblins for something simr in the dark paths? one of the southern nobles suggested.


    The fat man snorted. Gee, what a wonderful idea. Lets just flood the tunnels under all our cities with armed hobgoblins. That would solve our boggart problem alright, and what could go wrong?


    Order please. This conversation is long past the point of usefulness, Lord Lavista announced in amanding tone.


    Then get to it already please, the fat man replied coldly. Youve been awfully vague about what you want from us, but weve all taken your oath, so why dont you tell us what you are really here for?


    The councilor scowled in displeasure at the tone, but he nodded a momentter. After much deliberation, the king and his council havee up with n to help secure our cities. We need silver to create the cure for the gue and fortify our troops against it. Only then can be risk going on the offensive against the boggarts. However, there has been a shortage of silver in the southern realms ever since the fall of Coroulis, where most of it was mined.


    Lord Lavista paused for a moment before continuing. Thus, I am here tounch an expedition to Coroulis in order to seize the silver we need.

 Bane of Humanity 3

    Bane of Humanity 3


    Stunned silence filled the meeting room for several long seconds as all the attendees tried to wrap their brains around what their host had just said. It took them a while. cknail was the one who eventually broke the silence by letting out a deep sigh. This was already sounding like a lot of work, and he was probably going to have listen to a lot of dumb human screeching now. So annoying.


    What? How does that make sense? a noble with a long white beard eximed. Based on his in clothes and stern demeanor, he was probably from the north of Eloria.


    I also must protest. This n sounds insanely dangerous, another northern noble agreed.


    Lord Lavista frowned coldly. We have little choice. In order to survive the gue andunch a counter attack against the boggarts, the kingdom of Eloria needs a plentiful supply of silver. Without it, we are lost.


    Surely, there is some other source avable? What about the Homnds?


    The kings councilor shook his head. We could not possibly afford to buy so much silver from the empire or the costal free ns. There is also the matter of having it transported here across the sea and half the continent. Besides, this is what our coastal neighbors are already doing, and they will leave us with nothing but scraps if we try to trade with them.


    But you risk antagonizing the Doom. It destroyed Coroulis with ease and left the greatest city of the North an empty ruin. Nothing could stand against that drakes dread magic and horrifying strength. It levelled a city with ease.


    Lord Lavistas frown deepened. They were caught off guard and didnt know what they were facing. It was the chaos caused by the drakes sudden attack during a blizzard and the following panic that destroyed the city as much as the beast itself. The city tore itself from fear and no one could actually mobilize a proper defense. We on the other hand would be sending a small group of dedicated warriors armed with the best weaponry the guilds can design specially for this task. Also, it is possible the beast is no longer in the city. It could have moved back over the Iron Teeth mountains some time over thest few decades, leaving the silver there for the taking. There have been no sightings of Myagnoir for years after all.


    The fat southern noble looked thoughtful. Perhaps the Doom is long gone, but what if it isnt? We would be sending the expedition to their deaths unless these new weapons of yours are truly impressive.


    Yes, what exactly are these guild weapons you mentioned? another noble asked. Can they really y a mutant drake such as the Doom? Werrick asked with interest. cknail could see the cold calctions going on behind his eyes. They were much the same as the ones he was making.


    Despite the risks, reiming Coroulis would benefit the bandit lords greatly. They were the ones that controlled the territory around it after all, and the Doom was technically a bigger threat to them than anyone else. If a wealth of silver began pouring out of city, there was also no way they wouldnt end up getting arge cut of the profit. It was unlikely that cknail and Werrick would being to an agreement to share though. No, the winner would take all. If Werrick could secure the city, then he could use the silver to buy a massive mercenary army and crush cknail. However, if the hobgoblin seized the silver, he would be irreceable to the southern lords and could strangle Werricks support.


    I will let the guild representatives describe the weapons themselves. Please be patient and remember that we are all allies here, Lord Lavista announced with authority as he gave the two bandit lords meaningful looks. Obviously, the kings councilor understood what was going through their heads and had ns of his own. Infighting wouldnt serve his purposes, yet.


    cknail was distracted from his thoughts as both the mages from the guilds stood up and turned to face everyone else.


    Yes, allow me to exin our work, the younger mage said. He was dressed in a green robe with silver trim. His olderpanion in red with gold trim nodded in agreement.


    There are many written ounts of the fall of Coroulis avable. Most of which were written by wealthy refugees that survived. Thus, we have a very good idea of the beasts capabilities and have developed several effective countermeasures to its powers.


    I find that hard to believe. The incredible might of the Doom is known to everyone. Stories of its power are used to scare children into behaving, one noble remarked skeptically.


    I remember those stories, someone else muttered sourly.


    The lead mage frowned. Let me show you.


    He turned and yelled out some quick orders to a pair of servants standing at the back of the room. At hismand, they quickly hurried over with some equipment in their arms. One was holding a long spear-like thing, and the other had arge medallion.


    As most of you probably already know, Myagnoir is famous for using ice magic to freeze his enemies and protect himself. Several prominent guild schrs have been studying ounts of these abilities for years and discussing how to deal with them. This was mostly a theoretical exercise, until the kings council suggested this mission, but that research provided us with a framework we could quickly use to create these.


    What are they?


    The mage took the medallion from the servant and brandished it for everyone to see. This is a warming amulet. It uses carefully calibrated mana stones to produce a steady heat effect and will adjust its output in response to sudden drops in temperatures. Thus, it should protect its holder from the brunt of any cold based attacks.


    That sounds useful, but theres that should word again, one noble remarked skeptically. cknail agreed with him. An amulet like that seemed like flimsy protection from a famously powerful mutant.


    That sounds too simple. This took years of research? Why should we trust in somemon warming magic? Werrick asked. cknail frowned at him. What an idiot. Who knew what these mages were capable of? Obviously, these amulets were incredibly powerful.


    These are no simple devices, the lead mage replied as cknail nodded smugly in agreement. Creating a defensive ward that can automatically adjust to match iing attacks is veryplicated and delicate work. The amulets can also be activated by non-mages, which is something the guilds do not like doing, as you probably already know. If this wasnt an emergency, we would never have done it.


    Alright we get it. The amulets are very impressive and will protect people from the Dooms magic. What does the spear do?


    Putting the medallion down on the table, the mage then held up the thick spear. Thesences are actually much simpler devices. When engaged, internal me crystals are used to superheat the shaft beyond the hand grips to incredibly high temperatures, without burning the user. That heat should not only allow them to burn through even the thickest scales, but it should also render the Dooms magical defenses useless.


    So, you stab the beast with it, Werrickughed.


    The mage frowned. Its ance, yes.


    Lord Lavista coughed to get everyones attention. The crown is convinced that these weapons will do the job, and the support from the guild does not stop there. The enormity of the situation facing us has convinced them to aid us in other ways. They will be providing the army with as many fully-equippedbat mages as they can as we attempt to halt the boggarts advance.


    We recognize the danger that faces us all in this dark time, the older mage agreed with a nod of head. Thebat mages are the least of our contribution to the cause. All the guilds have opened up their vaults in response to humanitys plight. Our most advanced devices are being prepared and deployed as we speak. These are weapons the likes of which have never been seen on this continent. Some are capable of sting entire cities to dust.


    cknail perked up. What was this now? Could human mages really do such things? He might have to seriously reconsider how powerful the guilds were and how dangerous the southern kingdoms were to him. Avorlus would be the person to ask about this.


    However, without a supply of silver, we cannot defeat the gue, Lord Lavista added. Thus, three experiencedbat mages will also be equipped with the guilds best me spells and sent to support the mission to Coroulis.


    Geralhd sighed quietly. That doesnt mean much. The guild researchers care very little forbat mages. Theyve always been nothing but disposable pawns to the guilds, who keep the secrets of magic for themselves.


    The guild masters do have some concerns about sending mages and materials north, the younger mage said with a frown, as if in agreement with Geralhds whispers. There have been many reports of unlicensed dark mages hiding in the North and producing dangerous faulty mana crystals for unscrupulous buyers that dont care about the havoc such powers can cause.


    Both cknail and Werrick nced at each other and then looked away as they tried to look as innocent as possible. Both of them employed dark mages to create weapons.


    The older mage scowled and nced at cknail. Even more absurdly, it seems like the rumors of hobgoblin mages are true, and now we hear that the boggarts are also capable of crafting spells and magical tools. This makes letting sophisticated tools be sent North a great risk. They could easily be stolen. There would be catastrophic consequences if ayman attempts to study and reproduce them.


    And yet a failed expedition would be a far greater loss, the councilor reminded them sternly.


    As you say, the older mage admitted reluctantly as hispanion and him sat back down.


    I imagine there is a limited amount of the new guild weapons avable for the expedition, Werrick inquired.


    The kings councilor nodded. There are enough to equip a dozen champions.


    You expect a dozen men to kill the Doom? a noble asked in an incredulous tone.


    Sir Masnin, one of the finest pdins and most experienced mutant yers on the continent will be leading the expedition. He will lead a hand-picked team of veteran warriors to Coroulis, where they will scout the city out and look for the silver. If the expedition runs into the beast  and that may not happen - then his task will be to y it and secure the silver.


    Even getting to the ruins will be a long and dangerous journey. Coroulisys far to the North and the forest has grown dark and wild. Who knows what monsters lurk between here and that lost city. There may even be boggarts.


    That is where our guest cknails skills and expertisees into y. Coroulisys just beyond his territory and he is the best guide through the Green avable. He was born in the wildest forests of the North, trained by the White Raven himself, and has seen every corner of the Green.


    Um, sure, cknail replied as everyone suddenly focused on him. This was probably a very bad time to mention hed actually been born in a sewer under a city in the south. Also, the Green was a very big ce and he had only seen a very small fraction of it. He had been trained by seater though, and one out of three wasnt bad.


    Catching up, cknail cleared his throat and tried speaking more confidently. Yes, I can lead some people there safely. Leave it to me. Im the second greatest ranger ever.


    cknail then turned to re at Werrick. My master Saeter was the only better ranger, and he was actually from Coroulis. But, we cant get his help, because hes dead. Werrick killed him. He does that a lot. Kill important people.


    Werrick could only scowl as the hobgoblin berated him in front of the nobles. Many of them were studying him with disapproving looks now.


    Ignoring the conflict between the bandit lords, a noble asked a question. How many men will be going on this quest, exactly? And what do you expect from us?


    Even if Sir Masnin secures the silver, we will need to transport it south with utmost haste. Towards this end, all the local nobility will need to work together to help secure the route. This of course means that conflict along the border cant be allowed. Everyone must be working together.


    What does that mean?


    It means that all petty squabbles must stop. Nothing must be allowed to go wrong.


    In return for some of the silver? the fat noble enquired.


    Of course.


    There was some grumbling, but most the nobles seemed content with that arrangement. cknail nced at Werrick, who was already looking his way. Was Lord Lavista expecting them to be long-term allies? That wasnt going to happen. In fact, now was probably the best time for cknail to start messing with Werrick and weakening his position. Joy. Holding his tongue had been difficult.


    cknail turned to Lavista. Why is Werrick even part of this alliance? Im going to be your guide, so I get a treaty and Eloria agrees to respect my territory, but why is he here?


    Lord Lavista frowned. He controls arge part of the North, and several people have told me his cooperation would be necessary.


    But hes getting the same reward as me, and Im doing much more than him. Im your guide. Whats he doing to earn his pay?


    Red-faced with anger, Werrick turned to re at a noble. The man flinched and then quickly spoke up. Leaving the Wolf out our arrangement would throw everything into chaos. It would be apletely unnecessary risk that could doom everything we are trying to do.


    cknail scoffed and threw Werrick a confident grin. Hes just a bandit. We dont need him. I can handle him if he acts up.


    My troops will crush your vermin like the pests they are, Werrick replied.


    cknail chuckled. Good luck chasing me through the Green while all your men have the gue. Me and my hobs are all immune.


    Are you saying you wont help the expedition? Lavista asked.


    Im saying Im the only one that can guide you to Coroulis, so youd better pay me properly.


    If you are immune to gue how can we know you will remainmitted to the mission, the noble that Werrick had red at countered. It was incredibly obvious that he was working for the Wolf.


    I was fighting the boggarts before you knew what they were, and I much prefer dealing with humans. Also, Id rather not have hordes of ghouls wandering around. They still attack hobs when the get hungry. I just want to make sure Im being paid properly for my efforts.


    Id also like some of that silver, Geralhd mumbled. Im not immune to the gue.


    What exactly are you asking for? Lord Lavista enquired.


    I just think that If Im doing way more work than Werrick then I should get paid more. Maybe I should get a lot of his territory. That seems fair.


    Uneptable. If you try to take what is mine, the only payment you will get is blood, the Wolf told the hobgoblin.


    Please, none of us can afford conflict. Asking the Wolf to give upnd seems untenable. We need his cooperation, one of Werricks not-so-secret allies added.


    cknail scratched his chin and pretended to look thoughtful for a moment. Then perhaps he should simplye with us to Coroulis. He is a skilled warrior and a powerful Vessel. He could help us y the Doom. He should have no problem with that, unless hes a coward or nning on betraying us.


    The gathered nobles began muttering amongst themselves, but Lord Lavista looked thoughtful. He seemed open to the idea.


    Yes, I think the expedition North would greatly benefit from the addition of a warrior as renown as the Wolf, the fat southern noble said as he gave Werrick a smirk.


    An argument quickly ensued between the various factions of nobles, but the kings councilor quickly quashed it. I agree. cknails suggestion seems reasonable, and we could use the another strong sword arm.


    Werrick was red-faced and fuming now. He gave cknail a furious re. The hobgoblin just smiled back. It definitely seemed like hed messed up Werricks ns. So many things could happen to Werrick during the long trek to Couroulis and back. Yes, that would be much preferable to another head-to-head battle.


    Very well. I will apany the expedition north and help retrieve the silver, Werrick grunted sourly when it had be obvious that he had little choice.


    The kings councilor smiled. Good, then the most pressing matters seem to have been settled.


    There are a few more issues that should be discussed, a southern noble countered. If you want the roads secured, what about the refugees that are streaming across the border? Something needs to be done about them. Theyve been causing chaos for years.


    Another southern noble in green silk nodded. Indeed, since we are all here, this seems like a good time to discuss how to finally deal with the deserter problem. With the help of the bandit lords, we can end the exodus once and for all, and prevent the deserters and traitors from fleeing their rightful lords and duties.


    Lord Lavista nodded. Sealing the borders would help us contain the gue and prevent more desertion from the army. Were going to need to keep control over themon people in the days toe.


    Consider it done. Denying my roads and viges to refugees would be a simple matter, Werrick replied.


    Next to the hobgoblin, Geralhd made an angry noise, and there was a furious glint in his eyes. He seemed to seriously disapprove of the nobles stance on the refugees.


    cknail nodded along with the nobles, but had no intention of doing anything to the refugees, so he gave Geralhd a wink to reassure him. Trying to stop the stream of refugees seemed like a lot of work, and he had a use for them anyway. They could be used for things hobgoblins were terrible at. In fact, he wanted some human servants for his mansion. Most hobgoblins werent great at cleaning, and having humans serve him was far more prestigious.


    What a bunch of stuck-up tyrants, Geralhd whispered. They believe themon people exist to serve them and that their deaths mean nothing.


    Er, ya. Bad them, cknail replied. He was doing somethingpletely different from the nobles after all.


    It took another hour for the nobles to stop arguing about the little details of their alliance. cknail didnt care about that stuff at all, and Geralhd had to pinch him a few times when he started drifting off.


    However, Lord Lavista eventually began exining the timetable and details of the mission north. The expedition would be about fifty people in total, and both cknail and Werrick would be allowed to bring a small group of guards. They would also be leaving in five days, since the mages were still waiting on some equipment to arrive and Sir Masnin wanted everything prepared properly.


    That said, Lord Lavista dismissed the meeting, so that everyone could leave or talk among themselves.


    cknail quickly got to his feet and headed for the door. Sitting for so long had made him antsy, and he had a lot to do. This expedition was a great opportunity and he had to take advantage of it right away. ns had to be devised and put into motion. There was no time to waste.


    However, before cknail could leave the room, Werrick intercepted him and his allies. The Wolf had reunited with his own minions, several thugs and one blonde woman in a dress that was lined by grey fur. cknail was fairly sure she was the one known as Zelena.


    Both sides red at each other, but no one actually moved to attack, except for Khita. Ralphi had to grab the back of her shirt so that she didnt start anything.


    A forced smile appeared on Werricks face as he faced cknail. I dont suppose I can convince you to set aside old grievances? Our squabble is a distraction now, nothing more. A truce would benefit us both. Despite our mutual bravado, neither of us in any ce to seize the others territory now. There is much more to be gained from working together.


    cknail had to resist the urge to spit on his face and kick him in the groin before biting his nose off. Discipline would be rewarded. Saeter had taught him that.


    We will see how the mission goes. During it, we will have lots of chances to work together, the hobgoblin replied cryptically as he signaled for his minions to follow him out of the room.

 Bane of Humanity 4

    Bane of Humanity 4


    cknailzily studied his surroundings. The birds were chirping merrily in the trees as the sun rose off in the distance. It was still spring, so there was chilly bite to the early morning air, although that would probably vanish as the day went on and the air warmed.


    Around cknail, there was a flurry of activity on the road right outside the castle as men prepped for the long journey ahead of them. Sir Masnin stood in the middle of the crowd of men and horses. He was constantly talking to people and yelling orders. cknail approved. Yelling loud enough that you were impossible to ignore was about half of good leadership.


    Waiting for these people is so annoying. They should move faster, Khita observed. She was sitting on a rock over to cknails left, with the rest of the hobgoblins minions.


    Today was the agreed upon time of departure for the expedition north. cknails group had gotten here yesterday. After the meeting in the castle with Lord Lavista and the other nobles, cknail had rushed back over to the vige hed conquered, Aldhara. Hed needed to meet with his troops and send out a lot of messages and orders. If he was going to be gone on a long expedition, he needed to make sure everything was still running smoothly in his own territory. Thankfully, that had turned out to be the case. There had been no reports of boggart attacks or any other disasters at Daggerpoint or Ironbreak, despite the problems facing everyone else.


    All the settlements in cknails territory were actually running smoothly. In fact, Gob had headed back to Ironbreak to help train all the hobgoblins that were appearing there, and the forges were still working non-stop to produce spears and arrows for cknails troops. Although Ironbreak was still expanding and more longhouses were constantly being built, it was always packed full of hobgoblins. Gob had to keep sending them south to reinforce other areas or to hunting lodges. It seemed like while everyone else was reeling from the gue, his forces and holdings were the only ones that were growing stronger.


    At the same time, more refugees were showing up and seeking shelter. Most of them were either penniless farmers fleeing the war  and now the gue as well  or deserters looking to escape a short brutal life in a nobles army. No one else seemed to want them, but cknail was happy to take them in. He had a use for both fighters and farmers. A core of skilled human soldiers would definitely help cknail organize his hobgoblins and stiffen their spines. Also, since cknails hobgoblins forces were constantly expanding, he needed to worry about keeping them feed. Goblins and hobgoblins werent the best farmers. They got bored too quickly unless closely supervised, including the overseers themselves, so cknail had consulted Geralhd and quicklye up with a more dependable system. Hed hadnd cleared for refugee farmers and provided them with everything they needed to survive in the short term, such a hut and some tools. The farms also used goblinbor and were protected by hobgoblin patrols. In return, cknail imed most of their crops. There were some more details about loans and tribute, but cknail let Geralhd worry about that. He was just d to get a reliable source of food.


    Reassured about what was happening back home, cknail had then returned to the castle to meet up with Sir Masnin. Hed arrivedte in the afternoon, reported in, and camped outside for the night. The next morning, Sir Masnin hade out of the castle and organizing the rest of the force. That was what cknail was watching now. His forces were already up and ready.


    Khita turned to re at some people on the other side of the crowd, but then she giggled as a smug grin broke out on her face. Look at him there. He looks like hes got a big stick up his ass and cant get it out.


    cknail followed her gaze until his eyes locked on Werricks face. The man was clearly grimacing in frustration at everything in sight. He looked quite displeased to be here, which obviously delighted cknail quite a bit. The hobgoblin let out a vicious little giggle of his own.


    Dont do that. Its creepy beyond words, Ralphi remarked from where he was standing next off to the side.


    Thank you.


    It wasnt apliment, the bandit grunted sourly.


    Werrick had remained in the castle the entire time that cknail had been gone. Without a doubt, hed spent that time scheming with the nobles he had under his influence and making ns of his own. Still, cknail was sure he still had the upper hand. There was only so much Werrick could do while on the expedition. They would be headed off into the deep Green. That was cknails home territory, and not only would he have every advantage out there, but the Wolf would bepletely cut off from reinforcements. Werrick wouldnt be entirely without resources though. He was bringing his own escort, and most of them were standing around him right now. Eleven mean looking thugs formed Werricks personal guard, and he was also bringing one blonde woman, Zelena.


    cknail reached down to scratch his ass as he studied Zelena. She was an odd choice for an excursion into the wilds. All her clothing, from her long fur cloak to her grey skirt, was neatly tailored and expensive looking. Her long hair was also artfully done-up, and jewelry decorated her entire outfit. She looked more like a nobledy than anyone else in the castle, but there had to be more to her than was obvious. She wouldnt be with Werrick if she wasnt dangerous.


    cknail wished he could say the same about his own escorts. Sighing, he turned to look them over. Hed brought the most skilled hobgoblin warriors and hunters he could get his hands on. Also, Khita had invited herself. The redhead had justughed when cknail had told her she wasnt invited. Although to be honest, cknail hadnt tried all that hard to dissuade her froming. She was a Vessel after all, even if she was annoying and was probably going to mess everything up somehow. Ralphi and Geralhd were only here to see cknail off. Their talents would only be wasted on an expedition into the Green to hunt a monstrous drake.


    The hobgoblins that stood out among the members of the expedition were Herah, Imp, and shi. With such a small group, cknail didnt need any of his sub-leaders like Gob along. They were better managing other hobgoblins elsewhere. Instead, cknail had concentrated on bringingpetent and dangerous hobgoblins that had experience as hunters, could use magic, or had fought both beasts and humans. Herah wasnt the most skilled swordsman in the tribe, wasnt a mage, and she was a sub-par hunter, but she was one of the most experienced fighters since she was always shadowing cknail when he got into trouble. Plus, he could have sex with her. That was a nice bonus since this was going to be a long trip.


    Of course, although Werrick and cknail were both only supposed to be bringing a dozen escorts each, Werrick still had more men that he could call on. The bulk of the force Sir Masnin was leading was made up of nobles and their escorts. In total, four noble wereing along, and as cknail had seen in the council room, some of them were working for Werrick. cknail recognized two of them as men who were obviously his enemies, but he didnt know about the other two. They were southern nobles and they seemed to only be interested inpleting the mission so far. Looks could be deceiving though. They could secretly be working for Werrick. To finish up their group, Sir Masnin had a dozen men of his own, who were probably not in league with Werrick.


    Suddenly, amotion over to ckails left caught his attention. He nced that way and saw a hobgoblin jogging his way. It wasnt one of his chosen followers, so the hobgoblin had to be a messenger. By the looks of it, the message was important. The hobgoblin had a determined look on his face and was moving at a quick pace. cknail really hoped this wasnt bad news. A lot of things could have gone wrong, like a swarm of boggarts overwhelming Ironbreak.


    What is it? cknail asked as the messenger drew closer.


    The hobgoblin stopped and sucked down a deep breath before answering. Hesing!


    Who? cknail asked as he made a funny face. He honestly had no idea who they were talking about. Werrick was already here, and he was the big threat.


    Ilisiti the vympir. Gob sent me to tell you that he is on his way!


    What? cknail remarked in surprise as he sat up. Why would Ilisiti being here? Also, wasnt he really far away in Herstcrest?


    He is riding here with some of his men right now. They will be here in less than an hour.


    cknail made a face like hed just swallowed something rotten, and not the tasty kind of rotten. This was an unforeseenplication. Just what did Ilisiti want? Well, whatever it was, cknail needed to do something about this development before it got out of control.


    Why is heing here? Do you know?


    All I know is he said he wants to join the hunt.


    Lets cut him off at the road and see what he wants before he gets in sight of all these touchy humans, cknail decided.


    Whats all this now? Ralphi asked as he leaned over to listen.


    After giving his minions a brief exnation of what was happening, cknail led them down the road away from the castle and any sentries it had out. Thanks to the hills surrounding them, they were soon out of sight of the castle. cknail kept them moving for a bit longer though. There was no reason to take chances.


    A few minutester, the first sign of approaching riders appeared. Dust rose up from behind the hills and the thump of hooves reached cknails ears. Frowning, the hobgoblin chief stopped and waited. It didnt take long for Ilisiti to ride into sight. He was arge man and unmistakable in his unique heavy armor. His helm had two small batwings protruding from its sides and its facete was quite menacing. Decorative steel ridges surrounded the eye holes, making it look like the wearer was always ring with inhuman intensity. The rest of the armor te was also quite ornate and had a antiquated look.


    Upon seeing cknails group up ahead, Ilisti and the other riders began to slow. As they approached and came to halt, Ilisti studied the people in front of him for second before pulling his facete up.


    Ah, cknail. It is good to see you. I was hoping that youd intercept us, the vympir said as he grinned. I was wondering if I was in the right ce, since Ive never been this far south and no one on the road stuck around long enough for me to get directions.


    That depends on what youre trying to do, cknail replied.


    Im here to join you in your hunt for the beast of the North. Why else would I speed here?


    You want to try and fight the Doom, on purpose? cknail asked. Why would anyone join this expedition by choice? He was only here because of the rewards and the chance to murder Werrick, and he was hoping to avoid any mutant drakes they encountered.


    Ilistiughed heartily. It sounded odding from someone who was usually dour and reserved. I enjoy testing myself against all manner of beast, as you well know. How could I possibly resist the chance to join in the hunt for the greatest quarry in all the world? No, this is where I shall make my legend.


    How did you even find out about this?


    One of my men at your forward base sent me a bird.


    A bird?


    Yes, a kingshrike. In the West, they are specially trained and bred to navigate the Green safely. It is how we keep in touch with our holdings.


    Sighing, cknail took a moment to think. Would Sir Masnin and the others ept Ilistis assistance? There was only one way to find out. Fine. Leave your men here and Ill take you to see the leader, Sir Masnin. You can ask him to join yourself.


    I trust youll put a good word in for me, Ilisti replied as he nodded in agreement.


    Sure, cknail said as he began leading his ally down the road. The vympir dismounted so that he didnt stand out from the rest of cknails minions too much.


    They made it over to Sir Masnin without anyone raising the rm, but the tall vympir did get more than a few looks. His fearsome armor made him hard to miss, but he was surrounded by armed hobgoblins and cknail, so the appearance of one guy in armor didnt appear to concern anyone much. They didnt appear to believe he was much of a threat inparison to the hobgoblins around him. They were wrong. cknail had once seen Ilisti take a troll apart in a one-on-one fight.


    Sir Masnin was arguing with a noble about supplies when cknail approached him. ncing over, the pdin frowned when he noticed Ilisiti. He then turned back to the noble and dismissed him.


    Hey, theres something I need to talk to you about, cknail told the pdin.


    So, I see, Sir Masnin replied before turning to look at Ilisti. Thats some interesting armor you have there. Its of western origin, unless Im very much mistaken.


    cknail grunted in annoyance at being ignored but let Ilisti answer for himself.


    You are correct, sir knight. This armor has been passed down in my bloodline for generations, and I do hail from the West. My name is Ilisti, Im a powerful ally of cknail the hobgoblin, and Ivee to aid you in your expedition. With your permission I will join you with a dozen of my arms-men.


    Where exactly do you hail from? the pdin asked with obvious skepticism.


    I used to be from past Westwatch, but I find myself more to the east these days, along the border of cknails territory.


    So, youre another bandit lord looking for legitimacy?


    I care little for the approval of eastern kings. Im here to join the hunt and test my might against that of the greatest magic-born creature alive. I look for no reward for this but glory rightfully earned.


    Hes very strong. We could use his help and he knows his way around the Green much better than any of those fools, cknail said as he pointed toward where some nobles were arguing with their servants.


    But I dont believe hes quite human, is he? Sir Masnin answered in a steely tone.


    Ilisiti huffed in annoyance and raised his facete to reveal his pale face and red eyes. I havent sought to hide anything from you. I know that a false-blooded pretender in service to a cult such as you would recognize one of the old bloodlines.


    You humans have this all confused, cknail added. Ilisti is as human as you, and hes as much a human as Im a hobgoblin. None of my minions go around saying Im not a hobgoblin just because Im a mutant.


    You dont bite your hobs so that they get infected by your mutation and then harvest them for Elixir as they slowly die, Sir Masnin exined. cknail grunted in reply. Was that how being a vympir worked?


    Your perspective on what my kin do is skewed by your own false teachings, Ilisiti countered. We kill no more than the eastern lords do, and those that survive our touch are raised up to the nobility.


    Sis Masnin sighed. Is your thirst going to be a problem?


    No, I have made preparations for this journey, Ilisti replied. Like your own, my power can be stored in vials forter use.


    Very well. You may join us. Someone of your strength would be useful, and we are nothing if not desperate. Perhaps the hobgoblin is correct, this new threat we face certainly would include you among the members of humanity.


    We have always been the best of humanity. We defended it long before the rise of thest empire or the rule of the mages, for all that most of mankind has been ever ungrateful.


    Sir Masnin grimaced as if he disagreed, but before he could reply, something off to the side drew the pdins attention. cknail nced that way as well. It seemed that the vympirs presence had drawn Werricks attention.


    What is going on here? Werrick demanded as he approached.


    We have some new arrivals that wish to aid our mission, the pdin answered calmly.


    Uneptable.


    Thats not up to you, the pdin replied coldly. This expedition is under my authority and mine alone. Now go ready your men. We are setting out now.


    Ilsiti pulled his facete back down and turned to face the Wolf. I remember you, or at least your back. You fled before me rather than do battle thest time we met. If you disapprove of my presence here and wish to prove you arent a vile coward, feel free to challenge me at any time, pretender.


    Werricks snorted rudely. Removing oneself from an ambush by a numerically superior foe is hardly an act of cowardice, and fighting you now would be foolish. I look forward to seeing how you fare against Myagnoir.


    That said, Werrick turned and began walking away.


    Sir Masnin sighed as he looked at cknail. Watch out for yourself. Forcing that one to join our expedition was a risk. I have no idea how many nobles and troops he has turned to his side, but I would guess most of them. I can trust only my own personal forces, and the wolf is crafty. He will have many hidden cards prepared to deal with you.


    cknail grinned. I have a few cards of my own and no one is craftier than me.

 Bane of Humanity 5

    Bane of Humanity 5


    The clip-clop of horse hooves filled the air as the expedition to Coroulis made their way north along the road. All the humans were mounted. cknail and his hobgoblins were the only ones on foot. Horses and hobgoblins didnt get along very well. The beasts bit and kicked any hobgoblins that tried to ride them. That was fine though, since cknail hated horses right back. Hed considered poisoning the foul creatures before they left, but Geralhd had convinced him they were necessary. Hed have to wait until the mission was over.


    cknail kept up with human riders easily enough since they werent pushing their pace, and so did Khita, thanks to her own enhanced strength and endurance. cknails hob minions had to push themselves though, lest they fall behind.


    As the expedition made their way north, cknail kept his ears open and ordered all his minions to spread out and do the same. The humans were all travelling in groups around each partys leader, and they would asionally talk among themselves. A lot of important information could be collected by listening in to their conversations, and cknail knew that any one of them could be nning on killing him once he was no longer useful. He didnt know which ones had made a deal with Werrick. Thankfully, most of the humans didnt seem to realize how good hobgoblin hearing was and they could listen in with ease.


    For now, Sir Masnin was riding at the head of the expedition with his personal troops. Hed exined his n for the first stretch of the trip before theyd headed out. They were going to keep following the road until they reached its most northern limit. There the old road to Coroulis started, but no one had used it in decades, so it had bepletely overgrown. Following it wouldnt be any faster than going through the Green, especially since sections of it had been wiped out by avnches and floods, and all the roads bridges had probably copsed long ago. Those bridges had crossed several deep rivers that were now flooding. cknail would have to find them a way across when they got to them.


    Once at the ruins of Coroulis, the expedition would load up their horses with as much silver as possible before returning south to organize arger mission that could move much more silver. For that to work, the road would have to repaired by crews sent by the local nobles. There were ns to use river barges to transport the precious metal in the future, but the rivers were still dangerously flooded at the moment. For now, the main purpose of the expedition was to reach Coroulis and see if there were still any huge mutant drakes around. If there were, the humans would try to kill it, while cknail watched from a safe distance.


    Herah was at cknails side as he walked on the left nk of the expedition with several of his other minions. As he walked, the hobgoblin chieftain was contemting their mission and listening in to various conversations going on around him. He would have been in the center, but there were far too many horses there, and cknail couldnt stomach being surrounded by the smelly beasts. They might be nning something Also, asionally, theyd shit as they walked, leaving the crap right in cknails way. Disgusting hateful things! Yes, they were definitely getting poisoned. His vengeance would be swift and terrible.


    cknails fantasizing was interrupted when a horseman rode up next to him. Looking over, cknail instantly recognized Ilistis rather unique armor.


    Greetings, cknail. I think its time you and I had a talk, the vympir announced.


    Sure, about what? cknail replied. I like cheese a lot. We could talk about that.


    No. Rather I was thinking that we hadnt discussed the transformation youve undergone since ourst meeting and what I means for our long-term rtionship.


    cknail sighed. The vympir had a point. cknail had transformed into a full-out mutant after hed been wounded by Werrick during theirst battle. Ilisti had been there, but cknails human minions had hidden cknail away after hed been wounded for his own protection. Theyd been worried about Ilistis reaction. The vympir was an ally, but his motivations wereplex and somewhat mysterious. Geralhd was worried hed see a hobgoblin mutant as a threat and rival in a way a mere hobgoblin vessel wasnt. Vympirs were apparently a type of mutant that could empower themselves by infecting other humans. These victims usually slowly died instead of bing another vympir, and their blood was harvested by their attacker to make something like Elixir. Both mutants and vympirs had a reputation for being incredibly territorial.


    Do you have a problem with me being me? cknail asked.


    Ilisti shook his head. No, I see no reason that this should alter our rtionship. It has been tremendously beneficial to us both. You helped me find my new domain and your hobgoblins keep the surrounding Green from growing too wild, while I have supported you in battle. Admittedly, I had doubts at first about your ability to control yourself after your ascension, but you have put those to rest. There has been no conflict between us, and you have remained a steadfast ally to me and mine.


    cknail eyed Ilisti. He wasnt sure how much he believed that little speech, but their interests did still seem to be aligned, especially with the boggarts going around killing everyone and spreading the gue. Vympirs were also hated by the rest of humanity, so it wasnt like Ilisti had any other allies, even if he disliked living so close to a hobgoblin mutant. That could change in the future though


    Good, we should stay friends. Werrick is going to try and kill us before we get back, cknail told him.


    Yes, I believe he will. That mans thirst for violence and conquest surpasses even that of my bloodkin, and I have no intention of ever bending my knee to any man, especially not a wise-made pretender. Conflict between us is thus inevitable and this quest will provide us all with no shortage of opportunities to act against each other.


    Want some cheese? I brought a lot so that I wont run out, cknail said as he offered the man a small yellow and green chunk. Talking about cheese had made him hungry but eating and not sharing could be considered rude.


    Thank you for the offer, but no, Ilisti said as he leaned back away from the fragrant food. His voice sounded slightly strained.


    In fact, I should get back to my men, he added a momentter as he began riding away.


    As the day went on, and the expedition kept moving, eventually afternoon came and then night began to creep up.


    Well stop here and camp on that dry hill for the night. Were almost at the northern end of this road anyway, Sir Masnin announced as he brought everyone to a halt. Tomorrow, well head off to the Green, so prepare for that. Our pace will be much slower and more difficult in the forest proper.


    No one had any problem with that, so everyone immediately began unpacking their tents and sleeping rolls. Several of the nobles had brought huge colorful tents for themselves. cknail watched them set up with some amusement. One of them even had gs on it. Sure, the huge things were fancy and impressive, but they were really impractical in the Green. They stood out and wouldnt be all that warm, unlike the small grey tent cknail had brought. If something attacked the camp during the night, the nobles would get eaten first.


    cknails group set up their camp off to the side of the humans and next to Ilisti and his men. As cknail was putting up his own tent  no one else did it right  Khita wandered over to talk.


    This trip has been so boring, the redheadined. "I thought wed get at least a little excitement! But, no. Nothing but walking. Boring! Do you think something will attack us when it gets dark? That would spice things up. This is supposed to be an adventure!


    cknail red at her and sighed. Shut up and go to sleep. If youre looking for danger, we will be rushing through the Green tomorrow. Im sure a lot of these dumb humans are going to do stupid things that will get them killed in interesting ways.


    Ya, you have good point. None of those stuffy nobles and servants are experienced rangers like us.


    Another sigh escaped from cknails mouth. Hed lost count of all the times hed had to save Khita after shed almost gotten herself killed doing something stupid in the Green. She was not a ranger.


    Just go to sleep or Ill bash you over the head and dump you in the forest, the hobgoblin said as he waved her away.


    Over in the center of the camp, Sir Masnin was organizing the building of a watchfire and setting up the sentry rotation. To reassure the nobles, he wasnt including any hobgoblins in the main rotation, but he called cknail over to make sure there was always one hobgoblin watching the forest. Sir Masnin wasnt stupid. He knew who his best scouts were.


    As cknail was heading back to his tent, he saw Ilisti standing off to one side, studying the forest.


    Did you put yourself on sentry duty? cknail asked him. That didnt seem like something the vympir would do.


    Ilsisti turned and grinned at cknail. The firelight reflected in his red eyes, making them glow. No, I simply dont need sleep.


    Right, sounds nice, cknail replied as he walked back to his tent. Even he found that creepy.


    Shaking off the image of red eyes staring out unblinking into total darkness, cknail wasted no time in crawling into his tent. Herah was already curled up in there, but cknail didnt bother her. Instead he justid down beside her and closed his eyes. A lot of the other hobgoblins snored like hacksaws, and sometimes Herah was one of them, so he wanted to get to sleep before they started.


    Nothing attacked them over the night, which didnt surprise cknail. The scent of hobgoblin and several mutants was probably more than enough to scare away anything but the deadliest of creatures or apletely berserk troll. Although, even if a frothing-at-the-mouth mad troll had attacked the camp, Ilisti probably would have just punched it to death.


    Early the next morning, cknail got up and had a quick breakfast with his minions. That done, he sat on his ass for over an hour and waited for the nobles to get up and ready. They were very slow. Even Sir Masnin got angry and eventually ended up sending his own troops over to help them pack up faster.


    When they did finally start moving again, it was significantlyter in the morning than Sir Masnin had nned. They followed the road for about an hour before Sir Masnin called for a stop at a bend in the road. Tall greenery rose up all around the party, making this particr spot much the same as pretty much every other bit of forest theyd passed.


    Weve reached the northern tip of the road to Westwatch, the pdin exined as everyone listened to him intently. The old way to Coroulis used to begin here, although its not obvious. Still, following it should be easier than trying to head straight into the Green. It should be fairly t if nothing else.


    There were some nervous murmurs from most of the mounted humans. Many nced at the wall of brush and trees as if it were dangerous and might attack them. That was actually somewhat smart since it might do just that. The rough brush at the side of the road was amon haunt for mimics. Still, cknail found their fear amusing. The big armored human warriors on their big dumb horses were scared of the bushes. They must all be city humans.


    Sir Masnin spoke confidently and with authority as he continued. cknail and his hobs will now be taking the lead and ranging ahead. They are quite skilled at this and we couldnt ask for better guides. Please do as they ask if you wish to avoid any problems we might stumble upon in there.


    Have you ever been in the Green before? a young man asked. There was nervous stutter in his voice.


    I have journeyed off the beaten path and into the deep Green several times as I hunted monsters, and despite the danger, I emerged every time.


    Then why dont you lead us? another older noble asked. Why are we even considering following a hobgoblin into the darkest woods of the North?


    cknail knows far more of the forest and its dangers than I do. He enters its embrace almost every day. It is his home, the pdin replied reasonably.


    ckail simply rolled his eyes. His real home was a mansion in the middle of a settlement, although the settlement was out in the Green.


    The sess of this mission depends on his skills as a guide, and I believe him to reliable, Sir Masnin concluded.


    Its just I can think of several folk tales that warn against people doing this exact thing, a sorry sounding man replied. The hobgoblin eats them as soon as they are deep enough in the Green that no one can hear their screams.


    As I said, I believe cknail to be trustworthy. Also, this isnt a folk tale. I met cknail years ago, and hes still travelling with the same group of humans. I dont think we have to worry about being eaten. Besides, hes an enemy of the boggarts, and that makes us allies.


    Or, maybe this savage is simply lying about his fight with the enemy. Maybe he made he made a deal with them! one noble suggested darkly.


    Next to cknail, Khita looked up andughed. Dont be stupid. Ive been with cknail for almost forever, and he never eats people. Sometimes he kills annoying people though.


    Youre not helping, cknail told her. If he really killed people just for being annoying, Khita would be long dead.


    Im not going to take threats from a dirty half-wild peasant wench, the noble announced as he turned to re at the redhead. I will have your head.


    Khita sneered back. Try It and Ill cut you to bits. You dont have any army of conscripts to do your dirty work out here, blueblood.


    cknail sighed. The noble did have several knights and their retinue though, which was way more than Khita had. Contemting his next move, cknail tried to remember who this particr human was. It was hard since a lot of humans looked the same. Hmmm, he was fairly sure this was one of Werricks not so secret minions. That gave him some leeway since he was already an enemy.


    Know your ce, bitch! the armored noble hissed as he drew his sword and urged his horse toward Khita, who was unmounted.


    Sir Masnin quickly snapped his reins and begin guiding his own horse toward the noble. Hey now, we are all on the side here.


    The pdin was quite far away though, and the noble didnt stop. Thus, cknail felt the need to intervene. He stepped up beside Khita and put on his most savage grin. He wasnt too worried about Khita, she was a Vessel, but he didnt want things to get too messy.


    You can have the fat one that keeps opening his mouth; Ill rip apart his little pink soldiers, cknail announced as he grinned and drew his own de. Even though it was quite massive, almost twice the length of the nobles weapon, he easily held it up with one hand. This reminded everyone who saw it of what they were dealing with, a mutant with superhuman strength. Just to be sure though, cknail gathered a bit of mana and sent it at the humans facing him.


    As fear washed over the noble and his escort, they hesitated. This allowed Sir Masnin to ride between the two groups.


    Stop, I wont allow violence between members of this expedition,


    I wont stand for being insulted by a hobgoblins whore, the noble replied. My honor must be upheld.


    Khita justughed. If you dont shut your fat mouth then someone is going stick you like a pig.


    He should shut up and stop trying to pick a fight, or he will get one, cknail told Sir Masnin.


    Grunting, the pdin turned to the noble. Drop your challenge. We cant be fighting over every slight, or this expedition will be a short one and we will fail in our duties.


    I will not. Im not going to let a peasant nder me.


    Then leave or get off your horse and fight cknail in a duel right now. There will be no lingering grudges in a party under mymand.


    I dont need cknail to protect me, Khita announced. The fat tub ofrd can fight me if he wants.


    This will be quick, the noble announced as he began dismounting.


    Sir Masnin scowled. You dont think this is beneath your honor? Youre sowing discord before this quest has even truly begun.


    The noble just snorted rudely, so Sir Masnin nced at cknail, who just shrugged. He was okay with this. Sir Masin gave the hobgoblin a look, but then sighed when he realized he couldnt stop the fight.


    Very well. Let mey down some rules down first though. This duel cant be allowed to sabotage our mission. Regardless of the oue, cknail and his guides will stay with us, and so will Sir Avexs men. Should he die, they will join my own escort.


    Bothbatants were confident of their victory and angry, so they quickly agreed. A small circle was then formed for the duel to take ce in. cknail turned to study Werrick who had walked over to the opposite edge of the circle. Their gazed met, and cknail gave him a meaningful look, so that he knew cknail would be watching out for cheating. cknail knew Werrick had a bunch of little tricks he could use to influence the fight.


    As everyone watched, both duelists lined up in front of each other with des drawn. Khita looked far less impressive than her opponent. He was arge man in steel armor, while she was a smaller woman in dirty leather.


    Begin, Sir Masnin suddenly yelled as he backed away from the fight.


    Bothbatants surged forward and their des sliced through the air. Grinning viciously, Sir Avex shed down at Khita with all his might. Surprisingly, instead of dodging, the redhead stood her ground and blocked the blow. There was crash of steel as the des met, and the knight looked startled when Khita didnt give ground. Instead, the redhead then calmly knocked his de aside and stabbed him in the groin. Deep red blood spurted from the wound. Sir Avex stumbled back as his face went a deathly white. The color of the blood marked his wound as fatal, and a momentter the noble copsed. Almost everyone was staring in shock now. The little redhead had outpowered the overconfident noblepletely.


    A Vessel, someone observed in disbelief.


    "What a fool," another man added.


    cknail snorted at how unobservant these humans were. Why did they think Khita was here?


    Well, that was amusing, cknailughed as he grinned at Werrick. Although the Wolf still had plenty of allies, he had one less now.

 Bane of Humanity 6

    Bane of Humanity 6


    After the sudden conclusion of the duel in Khitas favor, one of Sir Avexs men insisted on returning south with his masters body. Sir Masnin was unhappy about losing another member of the expedition so soon  they hadnt even entered the Green yet - but he ended up agreeing. The idea of leaving a nobles body to rot in the forest made a lot of the other nobles indignant. cknail wasnt sure why a corpse rotting in the forest was worse than it rotting anywhere else, but whatever. Humans did a lot of weird stuff. If he stopped to question that sort of thing, hed never have time for more important thoughts.


    Once the rider started heading south with Sir Avexs body on another horse, it became time for cknail to finally lead the way into the Green. There were still a lot of humans that were ufortable about this though, especially after Khita had killed Sir Avex. That hadnt made them more trusting of him.


    Still, cknail just rolled his eyes and let Sir Masnin convince the doubters. He was already bored. So, since Ilisiti and Khita were standing near him, he asked them a question right as it popped into his head. Why are so few of these human leaders Vessels? Arent they supposed to be big tough warriors? Isnt that why we brought them?


    Khitaughed. There are some real champions here, but none of them are leaders or high nobles like Sir Avex. As if those lofty fools lead from the front. Im sure they consider themselves great swordsmen and strategists, but thats all in their heads. Theyre cowards.


    Even the false power granted by their mages kills most of the men who attempt to im it, Ilisiti exined. True power always has a cost.


    Ya, theyre already rich and powerful. Why would they risk so much for so little gain? Khita agreed. Most Vessels are poor and desperate minor nobles. They have the connections to get the Elixir and those that survive serve as the champions of greater nobles, enforcing their every whim. Sir Avex was an arrogant waste of life, and I knew he was no Slosher. The prick probably never even considered that I might be one either.


    cknail frowned. Huh, why dont the poor Vessels kill the weaker nobles and take their stuff.


    Khita sighed and made a frustrated face as she tried to exin. It doesnt work that way for nobles. Um other nobles would gang up to kill anyone that tried that.


    Why?


    So that their own servants dont get ideas and kill them. Instead, the nobles reward their champions withnds and titles to keep them happy.


    I guess that makes sense, cknail admitted. Obviously, the southern humans were very set in their ways andzy.


    By this time, Sir Masnin seemed to have finished speaking with the reluctant nobles. Theyd grown quiet, and he began walking over to cknail.


    We are ready to proceed. Please, go first and scout the way. We will all be right behind you, the pdin told cknail.


    Alright, Ill leave some hobs behind to lead you, cknail replied.


    The hobgoblin chieftain then turned and began giving out orders to his minions. A moment after that, he was slipping into the forest with several of his minions at his side. Moving carefully, cknail scanned his surroundings for any of the myriad threats that weremon to the Green, but he didnt find any. Thus, after sending a signal back to the humans for them to follow, he forged on ahead.


    The forest here was entirely normal. A mix of tall trees and older shrubs, the likes of which were quitemon. It was also easy to spot the old road. Not much of it remained, but cknail could still see a rtively t stretch of ground that extended through the forest. On top of it, the vegetation was lighter. There were more bushes and the trees were noticeably smaller since the canopy overhead was younger than in the surrounding area. Luckily, it seemed like the old road wasnt entirely unused though. Generations of animals seemed to have followed it, creating a trail that led in the right direction. That was good news. Having to cut through the brush would slow the humans and horses down far too much, so they needed a trail to follow.


    After scouting on ahead for about an hour, cknail failed to find any signs of immediate danger. There were no troll tracks or recent harpy droppings around. It seemed like this stretch of forest was rtively safe, so he fell back and let some of his minions take point. They were more than skilled enough to detect or ward off mimics and othermon threats.


    That done, cknail crept back through the woods toward his human allies. He made sure to move quietly, since he wanted to observe them while they were unaware of him. Not only would this be a great opportunity to study them while they were in a new environment, but cknail really liked stalking people. Few things made him feel all bubbly and warm inside the way hunting humans in the forest did. cknail licked his lips and smiled. Watching your unsuspecting prey as you nned the inevitable bloody end of your hunt was simply so satisfying. He even had some cheese in his pocket! This was going to be so much fun.


    It didnt take long for cknail to find the humans. They were following in his footsteps and making a lot of noise. At the front was Sir Masnin and a hobgoblin guide. The pdin was dismounted and one of his men was leading both his horse and his own. Most of the humans seemed to have dismounted. There were more than a few low hanging branches here, so most riders had difficulty moving through the woods quickly.


    Slipping to the side, cknail circled around the expedition. He was looking for Werrick. The humans were mostly travelling in a long line now that they had to follow a narrow animal trail. The Wolf and his servants were close to the back, although they werent at the very end. Instead, they seemed to have chosen a position that let them avoid anyone but their allies as much as possible. Suspicious!


    There were plenty of bushes around, so cknail was able to shadow his supposed allies with ease from not too far away. His instincts guided him as he slipped from tree to tree. His eyes were constantly darting from Werrick and his men to the surrounding forest, but he was rxed and at ease as he moved and listened in on Werricks group. This sort of multi-tasking came naturally to a hunting hobgoblin. It was what they did.


    At first, cknails targets werent very talkative and didnt say anything of importance. Instead, they simply marched along the trail silently and watched the forest nervously. Of course, despite this wariness, they failed to spot cknail. Humans really were very bad at this, although there were a few rare exceptions. No wonder they put so much effort into building cities and farms. Most of them wouldntst a day in the Green.


    Eventually, the fearful silence was broken, and the humans began talking to each other. cknail listened carefully as the humans began discussing various things. It seemed that many of them felt the need to seek reassurances from their allies and make new ns now that they were in the Green. This served cknails purposes perfectly. From so far away, even his ears werent sensitive enough to hear what was being said when the humans whispered to each other, but he learned a lot just by observing who was talking to who. Soon, the factions among the humans began to be clear to cknail.


    There seemed to be two main factions among the nobles. One group was mostly made up of northern border lords, and they were allied with Werrick. cknail didnt know the details, but is sounded like hed cowed them into supporting him with a mix of bribes and threats. With the Kings authority so weak in the north of Eloria, they hitched themselves to him. Their leader was Lord Adred, who was an older man with a grizzled face and a thin body.


    The second group wasprised of southern nobles who really didnt care much about what was happening in the North, but theyde to see Werricks influence as a threat. They also looked down on the poorer border lords and viewed Werrick as a savage. Unfortunately, this was smaller faction and they werent outright hostile to Werrick anyway. Their leader was Lord Petryll, a portly noble with a beard who wore armor trimmed in gold. He seemed to enjoy unting his wealth, which cknail found stupid. Gold was for hiding. Wearing it only made it easier to steal and slowed you down if you had to run away.


    Unfortunately for cknail, Werrick and his men were among the most closed-mouthed. The hobgoblin learned nothing of their ns. It was almost as if Werrick suspected he was being watched by someone unseen. That, or he simply felt no need to say much to anyone else at the moment. The Wolf was patient and careful.


    After a few hours had passed, Sir Masnin called for the expedition to stop and take a break for lunch. Theyd arrived at a small de. There were relieved sighs from many of the humans as they began pilling into the clearing and sitting down. cknail watched them for a moment before circling back around. He wanted to rejoin the group from the proper direction, so that no one knew hed been lurking and spying.


    As he was moving next to a fallen tree, cknail saw two of Werricks men wander over to the edge of the clearing not too far from him and step into the forest. Curious, he moved over to see what was going on. It was probably nothing, but it would only take a moment to investigate.


    The two men had messy hair and rough stubble on their faces. Their simple clothes had also seen better days. They were definitely some of Werricks thugs. The pair walked down a small animal trail next to some thick bushes before stopping. Then, the man in the lead stepped next to the bushes and grabbed his own belt, as if to begin unbuckling it. The man had obviously been looking for somewhere private to excrete, and hispanion hade along to watch his back in the forest.


    cknail grimaced as he watched. Humans were weird about their bodily functions and need for privacy, and it was going to cost these two. Seriously. Before the first man had gotten his belt pulled down and shown cknail more hairy pink flesh than he wanted to see, something reached out of the nearby bushes and grabbed him. As the man let out a terrified shout, long brown ws covered in green leaves pulled him toward the bushes and the hidden predator within them. Seeing this, the second man lurched forward to grab hispanion who was tottering on the edge of the bushes. That was also a mistake. Immediately, a third w shot out and grabbed him, and unlike his ally, he was instantly pulled out of sight. A split secondter, his strugglingpanion also disappeared into the greenery. Pained filled screams filled the air for several long seconds as the mimic tore both of the humans apart so that it could feed.


    cknail let out an appreciative whistle as he began walking away. It wouldnt be a good idea to be found anywhere near a bunch of Werricks dead minions. Despite their limitations, mimics were very good at what they did. Too make up for the immobility, they were experts at choosing ambush spots that lots of animals passed by, including the asional person. Also, the creatures first attack had been a clever trap. It could have pulled the man in right away, but instead, it had used him as bait to lure in the second man as well. It was a good thing cknail and his hobs knew how to spot the creatures. The bug-tree-things were really nasty.


    Werricks thugs had already stopped screaming, but theyd created more than enough noise to draw attention. There were shouts of rm from the camp as people began mobilizing. cknail slipped around to the other side of the camp and entered it from the opposite direction, so not to draw unwanted attention to himself. He hadnt been involved directly in the death of Werricks men, but he probably could have saved them. Their deaths benefited him though, so he hadnt bothered. Also, the walk here had been boring, and this had lifted his mood.


    It looked like Sir Masnin had quickly seized control of the situation. Instead of letting people rush into the forest to meet apletely unknown foe, he was holding them back to defend the camp. That was smart. As far as he knew, there could be anything in there.


    cknail wandered over to the pdins side and gave him his best innocent look. Whats going on?


    Sir Masnin looked relieved when he turned and saw cknail. I dont know. Two men wandered into the trees and started screaming. They havente back out, but the screaming has stopped. Could you send someone to take a look?


    Ill go myself. Its probably nothing. People scream and die in the Green all the time, cknail replied as he started walking back toward the forest.


    Er, thank you.


    After a quick stroll over to the bushes the mimic was in, cknail took a moment to observe a few patches of blood and footprints. Even if he hadnt watched the scene unfold personally, these signs would have told cknail exactly what had happened. Thus, cknail nodded to himself and then walked back over to Sir Masnin. Now, most of the camp was armed and ready for action. They all watched as cknail strolled into the clearing and over to the pdin.


    Theyre dead. They walked right into a mimic.


    Ah. May their souls rest in the gods arms, Sir Masnin replied sadly. Is this mimic a threat to use? Should we deal with it?


    cknail shook his head. Its not a threat to anyone else. Mimics rarely move, especially so soon after a kill, and theyre very slow anyway.


    Some of the humans wanted to kill the mimic and bury the remains of the fallen, but after some discussion, it was eventually decided to leave the bodies and move on. Werrick himself didnt seem to care about his fallen minions, and Sir Masnin reluctantly agreed that their mission was too important for them to waste any more time. They were justmon-born bandits. cknail was also happy with this oue, or at least he was, until Werrick made a suggestion.


    I take full responsibility for the loss of my men. I told them to move in pairs and not to enter the forest, but apparently, I wasnt strict enough. It would seem my men are too undisciplined. Thus, I would like to borrow some disciplined soldiers to keep the others in line.


    Sir Masnin frowned thoughtfully, and cknail scowled. What was this?


    Yes, you did just acquire quite a few troops after Sir Avexs death, Lord Adred added. Some of them would be ideal for installing the proper respect in that rabble. You should lend Werrick some of them.


    cknail snorted. He wasnt sure what was going on here, but he knew he didnt like the people involved. Werrick seems very bad at leading. They would probably just die like the others.


    Unfortunately, his amazing point was ignored, and after some more pressing by the northern nobles, half of Sir Avexs troops were put under Werricksmand. This annoyed cknail a lot, but there was nothing he could do about it. Stupid human politics. Itplicated everything. How was it fair that Werrick got more troops after losing two and after Khita had killed his ally Sir Avex? Now all of cknails work had been for nothing. Even though he hadnt done anything.


    The expedition soon started moving again. This time, cknail didnt bother creeping back to spy. Instead, he led the scouts and sent other minions back to watch Werrick and the others. He wanted his enemies under constant watch. Werrick had a secret n to seize advantage of this expedition. cknail knew he did. He just didnt know what it was. There was no way Werrick would havee out into the Green with cknail without one.


    A few more hours passed by as cknail stalked ahead through the Green. He encountered another mimic hiding along the trail over the old road, but dispatching the creature was easy enough for cknail. He simply hacked it apart and moved on. Most of the more mobile predators seemed to be avoiding their group.


    Eventually, it came time for them to begin looking for somewhere to camp for the night, so cknail sent out scouts to scour the nearby area. Soon, one of them returned with news.


    I found some rocks, boss, the scout announced proudly.


    Special rocks? cknail asked.


    The hobgoblin nodded and held his hands out wide, as if indicating how big something was. Yep, theyre huge and theyre standing up!


    Oh, lets see them then, cknail replied beforemanding his minion to lead the way.


    Soon, they arrived at the stones, and despite his minions terrible description, they were exactly what cknail had expected to find. On a grassy hill stood a circle of standing stones. The weathered grey rocks were all vaguely rectangr in shape and at least a foot taller than any human. They looked ancient, like theyd stood upon this hill since the beginning of time. The forest was young and momentary next to them, almost as if it could fade away at any moment.


    This seems like a great ce to camp, cknail remarked as he studied the stones.


    The entire expedition could fit within the stones and the ground there was hard and dry. It also wasnt a bad defensive position, since there were no trees hanging overhead and the stones themselves could be defended. There was the scent of feral goblins nearby, but that wouldnt be a problem. They would avoid unfamiliar hobgoblins like they would berserk trolls, for many of the same reasons.


    Nodding happily to himself, cknail went and fetched Sir Masnin and the others. It didnt take long for them to reach the hill.


    The pdin closed his eyes and made a brief prayer upon seeing the stones. Yes, were are truly blessed to find such shelter. There is an almost reverent feeling to this ce. Who ced these stones here? They are no natural formation.


    Im told it was hobgoblins, cknail exined with a shrug. He felt a tiny spark of pride, but he had no real connection to the ancient builders of this ce.


    Sir Masnin gave him a perplexed look. You dont know?


    cknail just shrugged again. I wasnt around back then, and goblins dont tell stories. Saeter said hobgoblins built these though, so we probably did.


    The pdin looked unsatisfied but nodded. Well, lets get everyone settled down. Nightfall is approaching and I dont want a repeat of this mornings tragedy.

 Bane of Humanity 7

    Bane of Humanity 7


    Why do you suppose the ancient hobgoblins built this circle? Darlin asked as cknail and him walked out of the ring of stones.


    The man was one of thebat mages attached to the expedition, and although hed avoided cknail before this, he couldnt resist questioning the hobgoblin about the standing stones. He was a solidly built man who wore a breastte over his grey mages robe. From what cknail could tell, he was the leader of thebat mages. Despite that, he had a youthful face and short brown hair.


    cknail shrugged. I dont know. Maybe theyre for fighting in. Hobgoblins like fighting and I dont know what else youd use a big circle for.


    After their first day in the Green, the expedition to Coroulis had camped within the circle of standing stones over the night. Now, they were ready to leave and get moving again.


    That seems unlikely, the mage replied. I think the stones have been carefully ced to line up with the sun. Did ancient hobgoblins worship the sun?


    I dont know, cknail told him as he grimaced sourly. He was getting tired of everyone asking him about this stuff. He didnt know anything about the standing stones but what Saeter had told him long ago, which was that theyd been built by hobgoblins. Humans hadnt been around back then, and the forest people hadnt built things from stone.


    Darlin nced to the side. What do you make of the carvings though? Surely you have an opinion on them?


    Theyre a bunch of blurry lines. I think I could draw much better than that.


    Although the circle of standing stone was ancient and had been weathered greatly by time, some carvings on their surfaces had survived. Many of the humans had studied these carvings with great interest, even though they were little more than some collections of lines that vaguely looked like people and animals. Except for some little horn-like things on the heads of a few of the figures, you couldnt even tell if most the figures were supposed to be hobgoblins. Many of them were indistinguishable from humans or forest people.


    Looking to get away from annoying questions about old rocks which hed already answered, cknail left the humans behind and went out into the Green to scout the way forward with some of his hobs. Thankfully, Sir Masin was able to get everyone moving before too long, and the rest of the expedition was soon following in cknails footsteps. Really, what was the humans fascination with those standing stones? cknail had personally built  or at least ordered built - things that were much more impressive, like his mansion or Ferrars furnaces, and humans didnt gather around those and whisper to each other. Homes and furnaces were actually useful, but they were far more interested in staring at some old rocks with badly drawn pictures on them. Stupid humans.


    It wasnt like cknail hated the stones. Actually, he rather liked them. They gave off an aura of ageless endurance that he foundforting, and he enjoyed seeing proof that hobgoblins could build things tost, since many of his ns required that to be true. Sometimes he wasnt so sure that was possible. Like every time Ferrar blew up his workshop, when his hobs started cking off and fighting amongst themselves whenever he turned his back, or every time he remembered Scamp existed. Thankfully, that wasnt often these days. Scamp was far away, working at the hunting lodges outside Ironbreak.


    It was mostly the humans reaction to the standing stones that annoyed cknail. They made everything about either humans or hobgoblins, like they were two big groups that all thought alike. That was clearly not the case, and dealing with their stupidity was annoying. He was just cknail.


    He could have done without the weird dreams though. They were also somewhat responsible for his bad mood. Despite their calming presence, there was something about the stones that had disturbed cknails sleep. He remembered fragments of the chaotic dreams. There had been a storm of snow. In the dream, cknail had followed a bloody trail towards it, passing snow-covered bodies along the way. The massive blizzard had spun and twisted in on itself as it tore apart everything near it. White had drowned out everything, except at the center of the storm. There, where it had been eerily calm, cknail remembered seeing a glowing pir of ice. It had radiated cold blue light, and then the dream had ended.


    What a dumb dream to have on a chilly spring day! Why couldnt he have dreamed of cheese and fur nkets?


    cknail was following an animal trail that wound through the trees, when he noticed a patch of dried mud that was covered in prints. So, he took a moment to crouch down and study the tracks. Most of them were from rabbits, deer, or other critters. But, he saw one track that sent a jolt through his bones. It was clearly from a boggart. Looking around, cknail found several more boggart tracks nearby, next to bushes and tree roots. They looked to be almost a week old, but it was still concerning that boggarts were moving around in this part of the Green.


    Scowling, cknail headed back to report to Sir Masnin. Hed want to know about this development.


    Show me, the pdin replied as soon as he heard about the tracks.


    cknail simply nodded and led him and two of his guards over to the footprints. He then pointed them out for the humans, since he doubted theyd be able to find them on their own.


    What do you think this means? Sir Masnin asked after studying the prints in the dirt.


    I might be nothing, cknail answered. Boggartse up from the dark paths to hunt for food in the Green a lot. These tracks probably belong to a foraging party like that.


    We move on then, but be on the lookout for more signs of boggart activity, and report everything you find to me.


    cknail nodded. I will.


    Sir Masnin then headed back to the main body of the expedition and they started moving forward again.


    Several hourster, cknail stumbled upon a new problem. The expedition had been following the old overgrown road north, but now the way forward was blocked by a raging river. The winding torrent of water had been flooded by the spring melt and was now impossible to cross. White frothy water gushed over its banks as it rushed along its path. There was no way anyone would be able to swim through that, and next to nothing remained of the bridge that had once crossed over the river. There were only a few stones left to mark where it used to stand.


    cknail scowled sourly at the river before him. Well, it wasnt like he hadnt expected to run into this exact problem. All he could do was report back to Sir Masnin and then try not to roll his eyes when the pdin told him to go look for some other way to cross.


    Sir Masnin nodded sagely when cknail informed him of the river in their way. It seems we have no choice but to find a new route. How long do you think it will take you?


    cknail didnt roll his eyes. I wont know until I look. Could be hours, or it could be days.


    Then you should get to it. What do you suggest our group do?


    Ive sent some minions to head downstream and look around, but I think we should head upstream. Thats more the direction we want to go. My minions can catch upter, since you humans are so slow.


    Sir Masnin looked calm as he nodded again. Its in the gods hands then. Lead the way.


    After excusing himself, cknail did just that. He marched ahead and met with his scouts, who told him about another animal trail that the humans could use to follow the river upstream. cknail checked it out for himself and then sent his scouts back out while he waited for the humans to catch up.


    Sir Masnin stepped through the bushes and out into the path first, but he was swiftly followed by several of his men and then Khita. A long trek through the woods didnt seem to have worn the redhead down at all. She was hyper and looked eager to explore. Her face brightened up upon seeing cknail. Shed been travelling with the rest of the humans, and hed been avoiding her.


    Er, this trail is muchrger than thest. What sort of beast made it, exactly? one of the armsmen asked as he looked around. The trail they were now on was quite tall and wide. Two men on horseback could ride along it without a problem, and there werent any branches hanging overhead either.


    Ogres, mostly, cknail answered.


    Mostly?


    cknail shrugged. Drakes like to follow ogres around.


    I see, the armsman remarked nervously as he peered into the nearby foliage as if drake might jump out at any moment.


    Are we in any real danger from drakes? Sir Masnin asked.


    Probably not. Theyre rare, and Ive never been attacked by a drake. Then again, Im a hobgoblin, not a human. Maybe you smell tasty to them.


    Hmmm, and what do you think we should do if we encounter a drake?


    cknail gave him a nk look. He wasnt an expert on drakes, so he could only guess. They like to chaserge moving things. So, um stay away from the horses and try not to look yummy?


    Sir Masnin frowned with obvious dissatisfaction. I was thinking of a more defensive n where we either kill it or drive it away.


    Well, you have a bunch of mages with drake killing weapons, so I suggest you use those, cknail told him.


    A fair enough point. I will speak to Darlin and the others, Sir Masnin said before turning to go give orders to the men behind him.


    I bet you and I could take a drake in a straight up fight! Khita told cknail as she grinned happily.


    Sure, Ill let you go in first, cknail replied.


    Turning away from all the humans, the hobgoblin chieftain headed down the path. He nned on catching up to his forward scouts. Being around Khita for even several second had already depleted his reserves of patience when it came to dealing with the redhead.


    The going was very easy now, thanks to the wide animal path. It seemed like even the trees overhead were thinner here. Thus, the humans were making much better progress than before since they could ride without a problem. That meant cknail had to push his pace a little though. Following the path was easy, but cknail was also responsible formanding the scouts. He had to keep eyes on the river so that they didnt miss any possible crossings while also watching the Green for danger.


    After around an hour had passed, the forest path began to angle upwards and be rocky. The trees then began to thin out as the the forest transitioned into rocky hills that were covered in only a few stubby trees. Soon, the ogre path veered away from the river, but cknail pressed on ahead regardless. He didnt want to get too far from the water, and the rocky hills werent too hard to traverse.


    Climbing up the side of a rocky incline, cknail took a moment to look around. From up high, he could see the river peeking through the trees to his right. It was about a hundred feet away now. Up ahead and to his left were more rocky hills, several of which that were taller than the one he was on now. Jagged grey stone and the asional scraggly bush jutted out of the hard earth all around him. In every other directiony a sea of greenery atop towering trees.


    While he was taking in the scenery, cknail reached into his coat and withdrew a wedge of cheese. It was thest piece of his favorite vor. Hed meant to make itst longer by eating other types of cheese, but he hadnt been able to resist. Smiling, cknail looked back to see if anyone was catching up to him as he raised the cheese to his lips.


    However, before the cheese reached his mouth, there was a wet sensation on his fingers and the cheese vanished from his grip. Surprised, cknail spun around to see that had happened, and came face-to-face with a brown hill goat. It was a huge example of its species and it was chewing on cknails cheese.


    Hey, thats mine! cknail growled as he red at the wild thief. Therge creature had a grey beard and sleepy eyes. It also had curved horns that were crystalline. A mutant!


    cknail reached for his de. The huge goat simply snorted dismissively, and then in one swift movement, it spun around and kicked cknail in the chest. Caught off guard, the blow hit cknail hard, throwing him backwards. As his breath shot out of his lungs, he hung in the air for moment. Then, he hit the ground and began rolling down the hill. Rocks battered and stabbed him as he rolled, and he only came to a stop at the bottom of the hill.


    Groaning, cknail climbed to his feet and glowered at the goat atop the hill. Ow. His everything hurt now. There were rips in his clothing and he was scratched in several ces, but at least he didnt seem to have any serious wounds.


    You will pay for this! cknail yelled at the beast that had assaulted him and stolen his cheese.


    The goat just stared calmly down at him. Its face was expressionless.


    Drawing his sword, cknail began climbing the hill toward his assant. Fighting a giant mutant goat right now probably wasnt the brightest move, but some things needed done. It was the principle of the thing. Absolutely no one could be allowed to get away with stealing his cheese! If he let this goat do it without reprisal, then other goats might get ideas.


    However, instead of standing its ground, the goat just snorted again and began to walk away.


    No,e back here, you smelly coward! cknail cursed as he stomped after it.


    The beast didnt meet his challenge and just kept trotting away. Frustrated, cknail stopped and took a moment to think. He didnt want to chase his new archenemy all across the Green. He was a little too busy for that at the moment.


    Thus, the hobgoblin sheathed his sword and reached into his coat to pull out another wedge of cheese. This one wasnt quite as nice smelling as thest, but it was still quite fragrant, like musty herbs and old sweaty clothes.


    You want this? Come and get it, cknail yelled as he held the cheese out toward the goat.


    What are you doing, boss? a hobgoblin scout asked from behind cknail. Hed just stepped out of the trees.


    Shut up and stay away, cknail replied without turning around. The goat had stopped moving and had turned to look at the prize in cknails hand.


    Sure, that sounds smart to me.


    Slowly, the goat started walking back to cknail. The hobgoblin chieftain smiled. Yes, thats it. Come closer.


    When the goat was within cknails reach, he lunged forward and tried to grab one of its horns. He missed as the beast ducked to the side and then snatched the cheese from his other hand. The creature was swift and slippery.


    Growling, cknail reached for his sword, and was promptly kicked back down the hill again. The fall hurt even more the second time.


    Coughing, cknail climbed to his feet. Ow. His ribs felt one size too small. Also, some of them may have been knocked a little loose.


    Fine, well call this a draw. Consider yourself warned! cknail yelled at the goat once hed caught his breath. Charging the beast wouldnt gain him anything, and really didnt want to go through all that again.


    The beasts face remained expressionless, but it licked its lips and drooled a little.


    Are you done, boss? cknails watching minion asked.


    Yes, I was simply scaring away a vicious mutant. Look at it up there, too afraid toe down here and face me. Youre safe now.


    Thank you, boss.


    Youre wee, cknail replied as he looked around for a new way forward that avoided the hill the goat was on.


    Focusing on his incredibly important mission, cknail resumed his scouting duties. If the goat bothered anyone else, he was sure one of the human Vessels could deal with it. Thus, the hobgoblin soon left the hill far behind. He didnt manage to leave the goat behind though. The stupid thing began trotting after him. It didnt attack or even get close, but it followed cknail as he moved over the hills and then back into the Green.


    Youre not getting any more cheese! the hobgoblin yelled at the goat, but it didnt react.


    cknail tried yelling at it and shooing it away several more times, but to no avail. It would fade away into the trees only to reappear again some timeter. Eventually, he gave up and just decided to ignore it until it got bored and left.


    As the day went on, the wind began to pick up and the sky overhead grew cloudy. cknail looked up at the sky and grew concerned. A storm wasing, so he headed back to meet with Sir Masnin and make preparations.


    The pdin nodded in agreement after cknail had exined his concerns. If it begins to rain heavily then we will be forced to take shelter. I dont think our sleeping tents will shield us from a real torrent or storm. We will press on for now, but I believe that finding shelter for us should be your priority.


    cknail had no problem with that, so he immediately sent out word for all his scouts to search for caves or other features that would shelter them from a storm. It took a while. The expedition continued to travel parallel to the river for another hour before one of cknails scouts returned with news. Hed found a series of shallow caves that would stay dry during a storm.


    After questioning his minion to make sure the space was suitable, cknail waited for the humans to catch up so he could lead them there. As he waited, the wind picked up and ck clouds filled the sky. A heavy storm looked inevitable now.


    Have you found us shelter. A storm ising! Sir Masnin yelled over the winds upon reaching cknail. The rest of the expedition was walking or riding behind him.


    Yes, this way! cknail yelled back as he led them off the trail and into the Green. The sky had already started to spit a light rain that was making everything damp.


    It took quite a bit of effort to get all the humans off the road and safely to the shelter. They stumbled through the now shadowy trees, tripping over roots and bushes. Hobgoblins were required to shepherd them and keep the stupider ones from getting lost. This was made much more confusing because there were a series of ponds nearby. Not only did people keep falling into them, but hordes of spiny frogs had emerged from the water to enjoy the rain. The critters were loud, and their spines could go right though leather boots if you stepped on them. Thankfully, at least the trees protected everyone from the wind and rain.


    It looks like well be staying here until morning, Sir Masnin remarked once everyone was in the caves and they were all out of the weather.


    The caves they were upying were located in the side of a small cliff. It was right in the forest, so trees surrounded it. Sir Masnin had to lean out of the cave and peak through gaps in the leafy canopy overhead to see the sky. Most of the mounts had been ced in their own cave, and the humans had gone deeper into the cave to huddle and warm themselves.


    This looks like a big storm that could go all night, cknail agreed.


    Khita was standing nearby, and she suddenly raised a hand to point outside. Whats that?


    ncing over, cknail saw a familiar shape out in the dark. It was the goat. cknail hadnt seen it for a while, and thus hed assumed that it had wandered off, but apparently not. The mutants yellow eyes glowed in the dark for a moment, and then its dark silhouette vanished into the shadows cast by the trees. cknail growled as he scanned the forest for any sight of it. He had no doubt that it was still around somewhere. The smelly monster was after his cheese!

 Bane of Humanity 8

    Bane of Humanity 8


    cknail didnt sleep well that night, despite the double watch ordered by Sir Masnin. He couldnt even trust his hobgoblins to be diligent enough. The mutant goat had snuck up on him after all, and none of the other hobgoblins were near his match when it came to sneaking or detecting sneaks. His cheese was only really safe while he was personally watching it. Thus, cknail slept fitfully and woke up several times in the middle of the night. Feeling nervous, hed then do a quick inspection of the area outside the cave before going back to sleep.


    The next morning, despite the fact that none of his cheese had disappeared, he was in a grumpy mood. He couldnt rest peacefully while that stupid goat was out there. cknail studied the nearby trees and bushes from the mouth of the cave for any sign of the beast. It was probably watching him right now, biding its time


    cknail considered slipping some cheese into Werricks backpack, just to see what happened. No matter how that encounter ended, it could only help him.


    However, cknail couldnt obsess over the creature forever. Sir Masnin eventually got all the humans up and ready to move, so cknail had to lead the vanguard again. That forced him to focus on more immediate dangers, although cknail was pretty sure he spotted the goat at least once as he moved through the Green. The creature was definitely still following him.


    The expedition got lucky early that morning. About an hour after theyd headed out, the scouts cknail had watching the river stumbled upon a ford. Despite the raging waters caused by the spring melt, it was shallow enough for men and horses to walk across. Slinging a rope across the river made it even safer, and soon everyone had made it to the other side. However, while the water had been rtively shallow at the ford, it had stille up to peoples groins. Thus, everyone got very wet and cold, and they had to stop for a while to change clothes and dry out. cknail needed time to find a new path north though, so that was fine.


    Once the expedition was moving again, they travelled for several hours without any problems, but then the forest ahead of them began to twist and change. cknail quickly spotted these warning signs and sent scouts out to study the area ahead. Then, he walked back to talk to Sir Masnin.


    We have a problem, cknail told the pdin.


    Sir Masnin frowned as he brought his mount to a halt, and all the riders behind him stopped as well. What is it?


    The woods grow dark and thick up ahead.


    Sir Masnin hesitated. And what does that mean?


    cknail sighed. These humans really knew nothing about the Green. The dark parts of the Green are the most dangerous.


    Ah, do trolls and mimics prefer the dark?


    No, because of the spiders.


    The spiders?


    cknail nodded. Yes, the dark woods are full of spiders that are bigger than your head. The poisonous creatures drop down on people from above and paralyze them with their bites. Then, they wrap you up in webs so they can eat youter.


    Sir Masnin asked if they could go around the dark woods, but cknail informed him that this was arge stretch of old growth, and it would probably take days to go around it.


    It seems like we have been given no choice but to go through it then. Can you shepherd us through this treacherous expanse? the pdin asked.


    Probably, cknail admitted reluctantly.


    You dont sound very sure of yourself.


    I know how to keep safe in the dark woods, but I prefer to either avoid it or burn it down. Thats what most people do, burn all the spiders to death.


    Perhaps, but we need to reach Coroulis and a wildfire would be even more of a barrier to our quest.


    cknail didnt have a good answer for that, so he reluctantly began leading everyone toward the dark portion of forest that lurked ahead of them. A bunch of people were going to get bitten by spiders, but he supposed that wasnt his problem.


    Soon, the greenery near the ground began to grow sparser as the canopy overhead grew darker. Then, dead branches becamemon obstacles and all the groundcover disappeared, leaving the dark earth bare. Eventually, ghostly pale trees and thick shadows stretched out in every direction. This change was obvious even to the humans, and they started murmuring fearfully.


    Only when the first spiderwebs appeared did cknail call for everyone to stop so that he could inform them of what they were about to face. Their fear would make sure they took him seriously. Sure enough, as the humans studied the webs stretching from branch to branch ahead of them, lit torches appeared in their hands and everyone pulled up their hoods. When possible, nkets and tarps were also put over horses. It wasnt a sure thing, but the thick cloth would discourage any spiders that dropped down from biting. Meanwhile, the torches would hopefully mesmerize and blind the spiders so that their attacks were less urate.


    One of the riders behind Sir Masnin looked particrly nervous. He kept ncing up. The hob is just messing with us, right? Theres no way spiders get that big, even out here.


    I dont know. Take your hood off and find out, his nearestpanion replied with a rude snort.


    As the expedition advanced, the forest continued to grow darker until the torches in peoples hands were the only real source of light. Shadows filled the forest, stretching forth from twisted dead branches. The cobwebs also grew thicker, until shimmering white webs blocked off many of the paths between the trees. The resulting sifting gloom was incredibly unsettling and creepy, especially since it almostpletely silent except for the asional rustle of leaves from up above.


    I see why even rangers avoid these areas, Sir Masnin remarked.


    The pdin and cknail were walking next to each other as they led the way forward. Behind them, the humans and hobs had clumped together into small groups for protection. Many of the humans were also leading nket-covered horses.


    cknail opened his mouth to inform his ally that they hadnt even been attacked yet, when a shrill scream from behind him cut him off. Spinning around, he saw a hooded human lurch out of a crowd while screaming. There was arge brown spider on his back with long legs that wrapped around his torso.


    Hold still! Ill get it, another hooded man yelled as he stepped out of the crowd after his ally and raised a sword.


    The man with the spider on his back didnt reply. Instead, he stumbled and fell on his face, which allowed hispanion to kick the spider off and then hack it apart with his de. That wasnt the end of it though. cknail saw several more brown blurs drop down into groups of people, and more screaming followed. This time, it was joined by the sound of frightened horses as everyone began to panic.


    cknail remained where he was as Sir Masnin ran over to help and prevent everyone from scattering in fear. Thankfully, things were soon under control and the spiders were killed before they could do too much damage. It seemed like only a single person had been bitten. He was paralyzed but could still be moved by slinging him across the top of a horse like a sack of grain.


    Some warning about the horses being so terrified of spiders would have been nice, Sir Masnin remarked as he walked back to cknail. We almost lost several of them back there.


    I didnt know. Ive never been in here with horses before, cknail replied with a shrug. He was actually on the spiders side here. As much as he hated the spiders, they were still more useful than horses, since you could extract their venom.


    Ah, very well. Regardless, do you think this is this worst we can expect, or will it grow more difficult as we prate deeper?


    Im not sure, but we should be able to handle it. The spiders arent a huge threat torge groups of people. Theyd have to bite all of us, cknail answered.


    The pdin nodded and got the expedition moving again. Having faced the spiders and seen what they were capable of, most of the human warriors had gained some confidence and were no longer so afraid.


    After a few more minutes of walking, cknail saw something out of the corner of his eye and pointed it out to Sir Masnin. Look there.


    There was somethingrge and ck hanging in a huge web that had been spun near ground level. It looked like a huge insect shell.


    Is that a boggart? Sir Masnin remarked in surprise.


    Yes, it looks like a warrior.


    How did the spiders manage to catch it? I thought they werent that dangerous.


    cknail shrugged. It must havee in alone.


    The pdin frowned and pointed over to the left. There are two more over there.


    The hobgoblin turned and saw that his ally was correct. There were indeed two more boggarts warriors hanging in another web.


    Hmm, I dont like this. Maybe we should go back, cknail remarked.


    Youre the guide, Sir Masnin told him as both turned to look back over at the men they were leading.


    Thus, they had a great view of events when a thick white line shot down from above and hit a man at the edge of the group. A momentter, he was tugged up out of sight into the darkness of the canopy above. He hadnt even had time to scream, before he disappeared without a sound.


    Uh oh, cknail groaned.


    Mages! I need light, as much as you give me, right now! Sir Masnin yelled as he drew his sword.


    Almost instantly, the mages obeyed, and several bright lights appeared as they activated their staffs. The illumination quickly pushed the darkness back, to reveal a spider the size of arge wagon hanging over the expedition. Its many eyes glowed red with reflected light as it studied the prey beneath it.


    The mages didnt stop with just light. Two of them immediatelyunched magical sts at the mutant spider - at that size, it had to be a mutant. Unfortunately, both sts missed as the spider suddenly dropped down and hit the ground. Itnded gracefully considering its size but still managed to crush several people. Everyone else recoiled and drew their weapons as they turned to face the monster in their midst. That was when more of the smaller spider began to fall upon the gathered humans, throwing things even more into chaos.


    After Sir Masnin, cknail was one of the first to draw his sword, but he was also one of the furthest away from the spider. As he began to move toward it, it spun around and nced at him with several of its menacing red eyes, of which it had an ufortable amount. It seemed to recognize cknail as a threat, because a momentter, itunched arge clump of web his way. cknail tried to dodge, but the web extended as it flew toward him, shifting into a wide that caught him and then threw him backwards into a tree. He hit the trunk and stuck fast.


    Surprised but uninjured, cknail tried to free himself, but his hands and legs were tightly trapped. He couldnt even turn his head to see how the fight with the spider was going, which was sort of important. All he could do was listen in, and it sounded like a chaotic mess. People were shouting and screaming. There was even a loud explosion. Ugh, maybe spiders werent better than horses after all. Also, if any of his stupid minions could think properly, theyd be cutting him loose so that he could help. That, or lead the retreat.


    As cknail was futilely trying to reach for his knife, he noticed movement. A spider was descending from the canopy toward him. Uh oh. He still couldnt move. The hobgoblin redoubled his efforts to free himself, but he made no progress before the spidernded on his shoulder and stared him right in the face. It made a wet hissing noise as its mandibles twitched and its red eyes studied him. Hopefully, that was just drool leaking form the spiders mouth, and not venom.


    Is anyone there? I could use some help, cknail yelled in an even voice. He didnt want to be too loud lest it trigger the spider to bite his nose. It was the most obvious target, and he really likes his nose.


    From out of sight, cknail could hear the fight with the giant spider continue. It didnt sound like it was anywhere near done yet. That wasnt great.


    Ha,e get some you bug-faced freak! Khita shouted right before another explosion went off.


    There was no reply to cknails plea for aid. He could only watch as the spider on his side crept closer, until it was suddenly smashed away by a hoof? cknail managed to twist his head around so that he could see his rescuer. It was the mutant goat. The beast gave cknail a nk look and then leaned over to begin chewing at the web holding him to the tree.


    Hey, what are you doing? cknail asked. He was rather relieved that the spider was gone, but he wasnt sure the goat was much better. Being eaten by the spider would probably be less painful.


    The goat ignored him and kept chewing away at the webs on cknails back. Soon, the hobgoblin was halfway free and could wiggle around much more. Was the goat helping him? Why?


    cknail stopped struggling and waited for the goat to finish whatever it was doing. However, a few secondster, the beast stopped chewing webs and began routing through cknails now exposed backpack. Before cknail could react, it then pulled out a wedge of cheese and began scoffing it down!


    You thieving b of mutton! cknail yelled as he began fighting to free himself again. Dont eat my cheese! Ill eat you first. Stop!


    The goat tried to reach for another piece or cheese, but cknail managed to get one of his hands free and il around enough to discourage it. Snorting rudely, the beast then gave cknail another nk stare before turning and beginning to walk away. For a woond creature it was oddly droopy and apathetic.


    Come back here and fight me! cknail growled at it.


    As if it understood, the goat stopped and gave cknail an unimpressed look of challenge.


    Um, after I get free. Give me moment, the hobgoblin quickly added as he tore some webs away. The goat simply snorted dismissively again and then vanished into the shadows beyond the trees.


    It took a few more moment for cknail to finally rip himself free. Spinning around, he nced toward the fight with the giant spider, but it was already over. The spiders bodyy on the ground and had obviously suffered quite a lot of damage. Several of its legs had been hacked off and corpse was on fire. It seemed the mages had managed tond at least one good hit. Most of the human warriors had been scattered after the attack - quite a few wereying on the ground or stuck to trees by webs  but most of those that were still standing gave a quick cheer upon seeing the in spider.


    Werrcik! Werrick! several of the louder people roared as Werrick raised his de in response. He was standing next to the spider and had obviously been fighting it. The sight annoyed cknail deeply.


    cknail wiped some more webs off his coat and stomped over. Shut up! This isnt the ce to be loud.


    The hobgoblins point was made when a spider dropped down out of the canopy onto one of the celebrators. Hispanions rushed over to help him, which promptly ended the cheering. It put a smile back on cknails lips though.


    Ignoring everyone else, cknail went to talk to Sir Masnin, who was also standing near the dead giant spider. The pdin quickly exined that the mutant had rampaged through the human warriors until Werrick had managed to cut off two of its legs. That had slowed the beast down enough that everyone could get clear and the mages could line up a shot to finish it off.


    Sir Masnin was too busy to exin in more detail. The spiders attack had left the human ranks in shambles and he needed to get everyone reorganized fast. The mutant spider had killed two human warriors and wounded three others. The smaller spider had also taken advantage of the chaos to bite half a dozen men, paralyzing them all. It was a mess. Thankfully, cknails allies had been spared. Most of the hobgoblins had been guarding the nks of the expedition while Ilisti had been holding up the rear. Khita was the only one other than cknail himself whod managed to get herself into trouble. cknail found her webbed to a tree so thoroughly that she couldnt even talk thanks to the webs stuck to her face. Apparently, it had happened right before the end of the fight, which shed been arge part of.


    It was tempting to leave her there and enjoy the silence for a few more minutes, but cknail cut her down instead.


    Once all the wounded and paralyzed had been thrown onto horses, Sir Masnin decided to press on. They couldnt go back, and after consulting with cknail, they decided it was unlikely theyd run into another mutant. The smaller spiders were annoying, but could be dealt with safely.


    To everyones great relief, the expedition soon managed to make it out of the dark woods. The canopy overhead grew lighter and green nts sprung up all around them, returning color to their surroundings.


    Sir Masnin then had them stop and make camp for the rest of the day. The wounded needed a break, and the paralyzed would recoverpletely overnight. Of course, the dark woods were hardly the only dangerous part of the Green. With the scent of blood in the air, cknail and his minions had to double their efforts to scout the area and guard the expedition.


    While he was out scouting, cknail climbed a serious of hills and then stumbled upon a cliff that looked down on a vast stretch of forest. Peering out over the expanse of green and the snow-peaked mountains in the distance, cknail spotted one area that stood out. It was still very far away, but it was unmistakably a vast city with stretches of homes all surrounded by a tall wall. Even from so far away, it was obviously a ruin with holes in the walls, plenty of copsed buildings, and odd patches of greenery. However, it was still an impressive sight and farrger than any city cknail had ever seen.


    There was only one city out here. It was Coroulis; the expeditions goal and their of Myagnoir, the most dangerous beast in all the world.

 Bane of Humanity 9

    Bane of Humanity 9


    After spotting the ruins of Couroulis off in the distance, cknail returned to the camp to report what hed seen. All the members of Sir Masnins expedition were relieved to learn that they were headed in the right direction and that their destination was in sight. After their flight from the dark woods and its spider inhabitants, some good news was wee. As the humans rested around their campfires and tended to their wounds, many of them cheered. cknail was a little insulted by their doubt in his tracking abilities, but he supposed they were simply being cowardly city humans, and he couldnt me them for that.


    As per Sir Masnins orders, the expedition didnt start moving again until the next morning. By then, theyd had time to rest up and everyone whod been paralyzed by spider venom had recovered enough to walk or ride. cknail selected a narrow animal trail for them to follow as they got moving. His scouts had explored it yesterday.


    Hmm, this trail is much smaller than thest. Arger one would allow us to travel faster, Sir Masnin observed as he walked next to cknail near the front of the expedition. Everyone was walking in a line because the thick greenery and uneven ground made riding difficult.


    There arent anyrger paths. The ogres are gone, and there doesnt seem to be very many other big beasts around here, just lots of small ones.


    Sir Masnin sighed in disappointment. Well, at least that means we should be rtively safe.


    Later that day, two human warriors fell off a cliff and died. Theyd been lured to the edge by the unexpected sound of human voices  which had actually been made by a hidden harpy - and then another harpy had swooped down from concealment in the nearby trees and knocked them both off the edge. The tumble against the rocks killed both men, allowing the two harpies to swoop down and feast upon their bodies unimpeded.


    There was nothing the other members of the expedition could do but continue moving. Climbing down the cliff would be dangerous and take far too long, and the harpies would simply see theming and drag the bodies away if they tried.


    However, as they were trudging on, Werrick walked over to Sir Masnin and cknail. There was an angry scowl on his face and he spoke far louder than he had to. Another two of my men are dead. This would never have happened if this hobgoblin had been scouting the way properly. This is his fault.


    Sir Masnin looked unconvinced and cknail simply let out a rude snort.


    Use your brains. Harpies can move around by pping their wings. Its called flying, cknail exined as he made a pping gesture with both his hands. No one can watch the entire forest for everything. I warned you and your men not to do anything stupid. Listen next time and keep better control over your bandits.


    Bah, as if a hobgoblin could be trusted. Your kind likes nothing better than to watch humans die.


    He has my trust, Sir Masnin interjected as he gave the Wolf a severe look. cknails re was even less friendly. There were some humans who hed like to see die much more than others.


    Perhaps we would all be safer if you didnt trust so easily, Werrick replied coldly before walking away.


    cknail was unimpressed, and he snorted again as the man left. Unfortunately, the hobgoblin knew he hadnt been Werricks real audience. ncing at the nearby nobles, cknail noted that theyd all been listening intently. He then sighed in frustration. Stupid humans. They were making this tooplicated.


    Thankfully, the rest of the day was uneventful. After hiking through the Green for many hours, they eventually came to a stop and camped for the night. Even better, no one else managed to get themselves killed over the next two days. cknail spent most of his time scouting up ahead of the rest of the expedition. He ran into quite a few mimics and other pests, but they were easy to go around or scare away. However, there was one concern. The mutant goat was still following him around. The creature would asionally show up when cknail was alone and approach him.


    cknail attempted to lure it in closer by holding out bits of cheese, but whenever he tried to grab it, the beast slipped away. Most the time it also managed to snag the cheese. It was very frustrating, but at least the creature didnt try to attack him. Keeping it happy with a few scraps of cheese was probably a good trade.


    On the third day, cknail stayed with the main part of the expedition. There, he spent most of his time walking near Sir Masnin or wandering through the trees next to the path as he listened in on other peoples conversations. He didnt learn much. Most of the humans discussions seemed to focus on their desire not to be eaten by spiders or Myagnoir. That was understandable, but it wasnt terribly interesting to listen to.


    Giving up on hearing any secret ns that his enemies were making, cknail rejoined Sir Masnin. They talked for a while as theypared hunting exploits. Sir Masnin was one of the few people that coulde close to matching cknails impressive list of kills. The pdin definitely had some very impressive stories, but cknail was sure that Sir Masnin was exaggerating some parts to show off and one up him. That was fine, though. He was just insecure.


    However, the pairs conversation was interrupted by an unexpected arrival. Without warning, the mutant goat walked out of the forest and stared at cknail. The hobgoblin grunted in annoyance as the entire expedition came to stop.


    What does it want? SIr Masnin asked.


    Cheese, cknail replied as he walked over and handed the goat a piece. It was probably better to give the beast what it wanted rather than risk it rampaging - or having its slimy tongue lick his face again. That had happened once before. The goat had been trying to get the crumbs clinging to cknails face, and it had been quite disgusting. Anyway, the beast really didnt eat that much and he had plenty of cheese tucked away. Besides, the more he fed it, the more likely it was to lower its guard. Eventually, cknail would get the drop on it and teach it who was the boss. Any day now


    A nearby soldier made a face and pinched his nose. That goat smells. Did it roll in something?


    I think thats the cheese, the man next to him replied before making a gagging nose.


    Dont be jealous. Youre not getting any, cknail told them as the goat disappeared back into the forest.


    The next day, the expedition crossed another river and then found themselves atop a hill that allowed them to see the walls of Coroulis off in the distance. They werent far now. cknail guessed that they were only a few hours away from the ruins of the city. Sir Masnin immediately called for everyone to halt and summoned all the leaders to him for a meeting. cknail was the first person he addressed.


    I want your scouts searching for even the smallest hint of drake activity as we approach the city. If Myagnoir is alive, I want to know it long before we see him.


    Me too, cknail replied with a nod. That was kind of important to know if he didnt want to get eaten.


    The mages were the pdins next concern. I want you to check over your equipment and make sure all of it is ready to be used at a moments notice. When youre done with that, every amulet and firence should be ced in the hands of our most capable warriors.


    Ill be taking one of those, Ilisiti remarked.


    Sir Masnin simply nodded. I wasnt thinking of denying you one. Youre without a doubt one of our deadliest fighters.


    I want one too, Khita said. Shed followed cknail here without really being invited.


    The pdin made a sour face. Well see.


    I thought the beast was supposed to be long gone or dead? a nervous noble asked. Thats what we were told before we came on this expedition!


    No, you were told that might be the case, the pdin replied sternly. Regardless, I n on being prepared for the worst. Returning without the silver isnt an option.


    No one had any arguments against that  that they were willing to voice anyway  so the meeting was soon called to an end, and the expedition started forward again. As per Sir Masnins orders, cknail headed out to lead the scout vanguard himself. He wanted to handle this personally anyway, so that he knew none of his minions were messing up.


    However, despite a thorough search of the forest by cknail and his scouts, they found no conclusive evidence as to whether Myagnoir was still nearby. There were plenty of old trails, w marks cut into bark, and toppled tree, but none of them seemed to be from within thest few years. Arge drake had certainly been in the area, but not recently. That didnt mean Myagnoir was gone though. It might have just moved on to a different hunting area on the other end of the city. Coroulis was arge city and the Green was incredibly vast.


    When the expedition finally reached the outskirts of the abandoned city, cknail had to exin this to Sir Masnin, who was not happy to hear it. He frowned and nced at the nearby bushes as the hobgoblin talked.


    I could circle around the city and check for tracks. That would answer your question, but it would probably take a day or two to do right, cknail exined as the lead part of the expedition came to stop.


    The gates of Coroulis loomed ahead of them. Made of grey stone blocks with a massive arch at their peak, they were an impressive sight, although it was obviously a ruin. The twisted remnants of its once mighty doorsy on the ground before it, leaving the way into the city permanently open. The forest had also creeped right up to the walls. Trees grew below its ramparts and vines dangled from its heights. Beyond the gates, the members of the expedition could see cobbled streets and crumbling buildings.


    Sir Masnin stared into the city silently for several moments before replying. No, we dont have time for that. Before us lies a great monument to the fragile nature of human civilization, and that omen cannot be ignored. Every moment we dy costs humanity dearly and pushes us closer to the edge of annihtion. We will simply have to enter the city under the assumption that the monster still lives.


    Good luck. Ill wait out here for you, cknail told him.


    Ill need your help locating the silver and scouting the city.


    cknail sighed. Of course. Hed been expecting a reply like that. I wasnt hired to fight giant drakes. Im here to guide you, thats all.


    And you wont be forced to fight the Doom. However, there is still scouting that needs done, within the ruins.


    What about if Myagnoir attacks me?


    Flee or fight, thats up to you. On my word as a pdin, I will aid you to the greatest of my ability.


    Thanks, cknail replied sourly.


    When everyone had gathered, Sir Masnin addressed them. Well be entering the city shortly. The main body of the expedition will stay together in formation so that we can respond quickly to any attack and protect our vulnerable members. Meanwhile, small scouting groups will search the city as we move. There is no reason to fear, our quest has both mighty warriors with supernatural strength and the most powerful mage-made weapons ever forged. Carry on, and soon we will be heading home as heroes to match any figure of legend.


    It was rousing speech that seemed to stiffen the spine of several humans, but cknail still found himself staring apprehensively at the gate ahead as the party began moving again. He didnt much care for being a hero, and the derelict gate loomed like the maw of a great stone beast that was about to bite. cknail really wanted to stay on this side of it. His instincts were screaming that entering the city was a bad idea, but he didnt have much choice but to do as Sir Masnin asked. His own ns demanded it.


    The first thing cknail noticed as he entered the city was the quiet. The sounds of the living forest disappeared. The walls kept the sound from outside out, and the city itself was an almost silent maze of crumbling stone. cknail didnt like it. It was unnatural for a ce out in the Green. The forest and its inhabitants should have prated the city more.


    Once the entire expedition was through the gates and had assembled itself into a box-like formation with the mages in the center, Sir Masnin motioned for cknail to head out. cknail scowled back at the pdin but did as he was told. If a giant mutant did attack him, he was definitely leading it straight back to the humans. That would serve them right.


    Muttering darkly to himself, cknail wandered out into the city with Herah and half of his hobgoblins in tow. His other minions  minus Khita, who was useless  headed off in another direction. They werent alone. There were also two groups of human scouts as well. cknail hoped they got eaten first and screamed loudly enough to warn everyone else. Hopefully, the Doom would then go after the main formation and get burned to ash by all the fire magic they were packing. That would be the best oue, but probably not what actually happened. cknails luck wasnt nearly that good, especially when it came to mutants. They were always getting in cknails way.


    Really though, how dangerous could one mutant drake be? Taking out a city this size seemed impressive, but humans were always having their viges and towns destroyed. The North was littered with their ruins. Sometimes they were even destroyed by human bandits, which werent all that scary. Famines were apparently amon problem too, which was rather embarrassing for the humans. Finding food out in the Green wasnt that hard. Ya, Myagnoir couldnt be all that dangerous. The humans had probably overreacted and gotten themselves killed while they ran around like terrified mice before a cat. Myagnoir probably wasnt much tougher than some of the other mutants cknail had killed.


    Feeling moderately better about his chances of survival, cknail continued his exploration of the vacant city. It was certainly an interesting ce, and a nice change of scenery after spending so long in the forest. The old paved roads had seen better days and had a lot of grass and bushes growing up through their stones, but it was still mostly t and easy to traverse. There were also a lot of hollowed out buildings with copsed roofs and walls. A surprising number of buildings with te roofs were still standing though. They were overgrown, but still looked sturdy.


    Walking over to inspect one well-preserved home, cknail took a moment to look over the stonework. Some of it was rather pretty. Coroulis must have been quite the city back before all its humans died horribly. Now, the ruins had an eerie feel to them, although scavengers had long since disposed of all the human corpses, except for the asional solitary bone. All the stone radiated cold - despite the sun overhead  and the entire ce felt hollow. Hungry even. cknail didnt like it. It gave him the jitters.


    As he was studying the exterior of the house, something white caught cknails eyes, so he turned to study the shadows behind the house. Under some bushes, stood a small pile of snow and ice. The hobgoblin stared at it for a moment. Myagnoir was supped to have ice powers, right? There hadnt been any ice out in the Green. It had long since melted No, he was probably overthinking this. cknail stepped away.


    There were surer signs of Myagnoirs presence that cknail could look for. All the stone and bricks made finding tracks difficult, but far from impossible. Moving back to the nearest street, the hobgoblin began studying the ground. He quickly found what he was looking for. w marks and indentations on the stone where something incredibly massive had walked. Thankfully, none of the marks seemed recent. cknail ran a finger along one gouge and then licked it. That didnt help with tracking at all, but the stone had some tasty salt residue on it.


    Getting back up, cknail scanned the ruins of the city around him as his minions shuffled nervously. Crumbling buildings of various sizes surrounded him. Parts of the city had been built on a slope, so he could see many more buildings rising up off in the distance. One building in particr stood out, a massive stone keep. It looked like it used to have four towers, but only one was still standing. cknail stared at it for several seconds, and then started walking over to it. It was as good a ce to look as any.


    Warily, cknail and his minions walked around a street corner and past a tree that was growing up through the middle of the road. The keep was now directly ahead of him. He was nning to try to climb up onto its walls in order to get a better view, but he stopped upon noticing some more tracks on the ground in front of him. Bending down, he studied them, and a shiver went down his spine. These were fresh. Something with gigantic ws that could scar stone had been here within thest couple days.


    Were heading back, now! cknail hissed at his minions as he turned around.


    All the nearby hobgoblins acknowledged his orders and started to follow him, but then everyone flinched as a cold breeze washed over them. Goosebumps rose on cknails skin and he had to bite down to stop his teeth from chattering.


    Did you feel that boss? Herah asked him.


    cknail had already picked up his pace. Yes, run!


    Moving as quickly as he could without having his minions make enough noise to announce themselves to the entire city, cknail ran back toward where he had left Sir Masnin and the nobles. He wasnt fleeing in terror. No, he simply had some very important information to report. Yes, that was it.


    As the first human riders came into sight, cknail felt relieved. There was Sir Masnin at the front, looking strong and all shiny in all his armor. Behind him, rode over a dozen heavily armed human warriors, and behind them were the three mages with their fire staffs. Still more warriors held up the rear, including Ilisti and his men. cknail hurried toward them and safety so that he could give his report. That was important.


    Suddenly, there was a loud crack from behind cknail. Spinning around, he spotted something that caused his heart to skip a beat. A massive grey drake with a blue crest on its head was leaning on a building about two hundred feet away. With its front legs on the roof, it could stretch up and get amanding view of its surroundings and see over all the nearby buildings, but right now its yellow eyes were locked directly on cknail. The hobgoblin went rigid as he saw the ravenous power lurking in the drakes eyes, and then the beast growled. As a sound like boulders grinding against each other washed over cknail, it brought with it a wave of freezing air that stung his skin and chilled his bones.


    Uh oh.

 Bane of Humanity 10

    Bane of Humanity 10


    cknail shuddered as an unnatural cold assaulted him. It burned as it stabbed through his flesh and seeped into his blood. Gritting his teeth, cknail steadied himself and looked toward the Doom of Coroulis.


    Keep running! he told his minions as he raised a hand to shield his eyes from the cold. They felt like they were freezing and cracking, but he could see fine.


    The mutant drake was still perched atop the remains of the ruined home. Its intense yellow eyes seemed to focus on cknail as the other hobgoblins ran past him. cknail took a moment to study it in turn. It was gigantic, muchrger than even many of the fancy homes of Coroulis. The mutant had the body of a grey-scaled lizard, but with a crest of blue feathers on its head that ran all the way down its back. The Doom was without a doubt unmatched predator. Its jaws were so thick and powerful they looked like they could crush boulders, and its magic abilities were made obvious by the blue crystal spikes sticking out of its skin.


    Saeter had mentioned this beast quite a lot, usually as some form of curse word. Saeter had never said it directly, hed almost never talked about himself, but others had told cknail that his master had been here when the city had fallen. His master had also apparently seen the mutant with his own eyes, just like cknail was now. The Doom was one of his masters enemies, which was one of the reasons cknail had agreed toe here. All his masters foes needed to die. That was cknails mission. That was the hunger that drove him forward despite the pain and loss.


    Form up and activate your amulets! Sir Masnin yelled from down the street. As the same time, many other humans began shouting and screaming. They sighted Myagnoir.


    Sir Masnins words brought cknail back to reality and reminded him that he had a heating amulet of his own, so he quickly reached up to activate it. As soon as his fingers squeezed it, he felt the oppressive cold retreat as warmth flooded out of the protective trinket. cknail would have felt relieved, but that was when the Doom decided to hop down from the building and began stalking his way. Right. He needed to get the hells out of here. He wasnt actually nning on killing the Doom himself. That would be beyond stupid, like something Khita would try to do.


    Turning around, cknail sprinted toward the humans down the street as quickly as he could, which was faster than hed ever moved before. The humongous predator behind him gave him plenty of motivation to push himself.


    Up ahead, Sir Masnin was readying his force to meet the Doom. Taking advantage of the wide street, theyd formed up into two lines of riders, and cknail saw that many of them were armed with the mages heatnces. Lord Ilisti and Werrick both had them and were on either side of Sir Masnin. Behind the riders were the mages and warriors withoutnces. One of the mages was already holding up a glowing staff. It burned with orange light and the air around it shimmered lightly.


    There was a loud crack as stone shattered beneath Myagnoirs weight as he ran. cknail flinched and looked back. He was almost to his allies now, but the drake had closed the distance considerably, even if it didnt seem to be moving nearly as fast as it could. Instead, it seemed aggressive but wary.


    In fact, Myagnoir slowed instead of charging straight ahead at the riders. It roared  shaking the air  and then the crystals jutting from its back glowed menacingly. Immediately, frost appeared on the ruins around the beast, the air above it swirled violently, and then two huge jagged shards of ice formed above the drake. Soon, they were bothrger than a horse.


    As Myagnoir roared again, and the ice shards shot forth. The first went straight toward Sir Masnin and the other riders. There were fearful shouts as the icy projectile closed in on the humans, but then one of the mages responded. He raised his staff and it let out a pulse of roiling red me. This wave of burning power washed over iing spear of ice and disintegrated it. The humans werepletely unharmed.


    However, cknail didnt have time to feel relieved. The second icy spear had been hurled his way. Panic raced though cknail as he reached into his core and grabbed as much magic as he could. Shoving the magic into his muscles, he threw himself sideways out of the way of the ice spear. His body burned from the effort as a wave of cold overpowered his amulet and prickled his skin, but a momentter, the huge projectile flew past him. Hed dodged it! He was still alive.


    One of the hobgoblins in front of him wasnt so fortunate. The spear mmed right into him. His body didnt even slow it. He simply disappeared as the icy projectile mmed into him, and then they both flew into one of the ruined homes alongside the street. The impact threw a cloud of dust up into the air as the building copsed in on itself. There was no sign of the now very dead hobgoblin, except a single boot hed left behind on the street. It was just sitting there where hed been standing a moment ago. cknail had no idea how that had happened, but he couldnt spare it a thought. Myagnoir was still charging toward him.


    As the drake roared again, cknail resumed his frantic dash toward his allies. As he moved, he noted that Herah was already there. So much for her never leaving his side or whatever! He would remember this.


    A momentter, cknail reached the line of horsemen and quickly charged past them without stopping. He didnt n on being anywhere near them when the fight started. He wasnt getting paid to fight city killing monsters. Hed found the thing for them, so now killing it was the humans job.


    Sir Masnin raised hisnce and began shouting more orders. Forward knights! For righteousness, and for humanity! nk the beast like weve nned and target its weak underbelly as you pass.


    As soon as he was done yelling, there was a determined cheer from the other mounted warriors, and then the pdin sprang into action. Shouting wordlessly, he urged his horse forward and it began charging toward the enemy. A momentter, the other knights and warriors followed. Splitting apart, the charging horsemen went up both sides of the road, leaving the center open. Obviously, they nned on nking Maygnoir instead of facing him head on. This n also had they advantage of giving the mages that had remained behind a clear line of fire, which they immediately took advantage of. Lances of searing me and hissing fireballs shot toward the mutant drake.


    Seeing the iing fire, Myagnoir roared again and the air around him began to swirl like a miniature cyclone. Then, the vortex was filled with swirling white shards of ice, turning the exterior of the cyclone into something that almost looked like a solid barrier thatpletely surrounded the drake. cknail felt the tip of his long nose freeze for a second before his amulet adjusted. The battleground had grown even colder. Now, white sparkling frost was everywhere, on both the ground and the nearby ruins. It was a good thing that the mage with the orange staff was shielding all the humans that didnt have amulets. Theyd all probably be dead without the shimmering haze of heat that was radiating from the staff. After the battle, cknail would have to look for an opportunity to acquire it when no one was looking. It be nice to have over the winter.


    Up ahead, the mages fiery spells mmed into the drakes freezing cyclone, creating explosions of steam and throwing the cyclone into chaos. It grew more frenzied and chaotic as every st hit it, until it began to shrink and fade.


    Growling, Myagnoir eyed the charging knights and abandoned his cyclonic shield. As it faded, he came to a stop and smashed one of his front ws into the stone of the road. Immediately, the earth rumbled and an unnerving cracking filled the air. A secondter, as everyone watched breathlessly, the road in front of Myagnoir erupted violently. Huge jagged shard of ice burst out of the ground, lifting up tons of earth and stone to form a huge wall right in front of Myagnoir. The mages fireballs mmed into the icy barrier and exploded without doing much in the way of damage.


    Forward, for country and divinity! Sir Masnin yelled as he rode past the wall. His subordinates streamed after him. cknail saw Ilisti and Werrick ride past the other side as well.


    Regardless of the ice wall, the knights were too close to Mayagnoir for the mages to keep throwing fire at the beast, so they lowered their staffs to watch like everyone else.


    Although the ice wall was partly in the way, cknail could still see almost everything. As he watched, the two lines of knights streamed toward Myagnoir. The massive drake growled and swiped at Sir Masnin with one of its ws, but the pdin and his horse managed to dodge the attack and make it past the beast unscathed. This also gave the other group of knights an opening that they ruthlessly exploited. Charging in, Werrick stabbed one of the mutants legs with his firence.


    Myagnor screamed in pain but reacted quickly and smoothly. The great drake spun around, so that its tail swiped at the knights from behind. Scattering, most the knights were forced to abandon their charge, and two of them were hit by the long scaly appendage. The impact sent both men and horse flying off the road and into the ruins. Judging by the loud snapping sound of armor and bone breaking hed heard, cknail was sure they wouldnt be getting back up.


    However, not all the riders missed their chance at the drake. Lord Ilsisti managed to duck under the tail and continue on. Before swerving away, his firence bit deep into the side of Myagnoir, leaving a bleeding and faintly smoking gash. The drakes scales were thinner near its belly. It was injured, but not enough to hamper it. Ice-cold malevolence radiated from its yellow eyes as it red at the humans.


    Myagnoir roared in defiance and rage once thest its foes had streamed past. The beast seemed insulted at being injured by such tiny attackers, even if it had only taken minor wounds. However, the roar was more than a scream of defiance. A st of freezing air surged away from the drake toward the retreating knights. Thankfully, they managed to dodge the center of the icy st, and their amulets protected them from the freezing winds that swirled around it. This seemed to infuriate Myagnoir further, it scratched the ground with one of its ws  tearing up paving stones - and let out a low menacing growl.


    Turning away from the knights that were now attempting to reform for another charge, Myagnoir peered around the wall of ice and rubble it had made, and directly at cknail and the people near him.


    Uh oh! Herah remarked. Shed shamelessly made her way over to his side now that it was safe.


    Bah, that stupid lizard cant hurt us, Khita said dismissively. Shed also wandered over from somewhere.


    Ya, were probably fine, cknail replied. There were over a dozen humans in front of him, including two mages. While they may not have been knights or Vessels, they were still heavily armed warriors. They also had plenty of defensive magic. If Myagnoir attacked them, hed simply be opening himself to an attack from behind by the knights while he was distracted. cknail almost wished he would do that.


    However, cknails confident sneer soon grew lopsided. As he watched, Myagnoir took a step back behind the icy wall, spun around in a circle, and mmed his tail into a boulder that was sitting atop his wall. There was a loud cracking noise as the ice broke, and then the boulder was sent flying straight toward the center of the humans'' formation. Flying with startling speed, it was headed right at the mage with the orange staff. Immediately, the mages tried to defend themselves. A shield of fire rose into the air and a fierynce shot toward the boulder. However, thence shattered the boulder without stopping it, and the rock shards were ckened by the shield but not deflected. Before the mages could raise a more appropriate defense, the shower of stone mmed into the center of the human formation. Screams filled the air as the rocks tore into flesh and bounced across the road.


    cknail was out of the immediate danger area but he still threw himself further away, just in case. Herah and Khitanded next to him a momentter.


    Stupid lizard is smart, cknail growled as he picked himself off the ground a few momentster. He should have known better than to ever agree with Khita. She was always wrong. Always!


    Looking around, cknail saw that the mage with the orange staff was definitely dead. Both his body and his staff had been torn to pieces by the deadly hail, dissipating the heat aura hed been creating. That was very bad. cknail saw that everyone nearby was already starting to feel the effects of the cold. He was the only one - other than the remaining mage  who had a protective amulet.


    So cold! Its freezing, boss, Herah groaned as he climbed to her feet. She was hugging herself and shivering uncontrobly.


    Khita nodded in agreement. Ya, its colder than a nobles heart all of sudden.


    Get out of here, cknail ordered them as he gave Herah a push. She didnt move fast enough, so Khita grabbed her arm and began leading her away. The redhead seemed to have some protection from the cold thanks to her status as a Vessel.


    Almost all the nearby humans were running or stumbling away now too. With the death of the mage protecting them, their entire formation had been destroyed and be a chaotic mess. cknail grimaced as he looked around. Although the Doom had turned back around to face the knights charging its way, this probably wasnt the smartest ce to stand. He was exposed and alone in the middle of street. Thus, cknail jogged over into the nearby ruined buildings to look for somewhere he could watch the action from.


    cknail found a perch on a nearby wall just in time to see Sir Masnin and the others make their second pass. The thundering of horse hooves grew louder as they approached withnces ready. The Doom growled at them andunched several small ice spears their way, but none of them hit. Two were blocked by a hazy shield created by a mage, and the other missed the riderspletely.


    Sir Masnin lead the first group of knights that charged at Myagnoir from its left. The massive drake appeared to have learned caution from itsst run in with the knights. Instead of the facing its attackers head on, it swiped at the pdin and jumped back. Sir Masnin tried to dodge, but he took a ncing blow from the ws. He swayed back, but didnt fall, thanks to his heavy armor. A few secondter, he rode past the mutant drake. The other knights attempted to stab the Doom, but it disyed a surprising amount of agility. Dodging away, it avoided the knights in the first group, and then it spun around again to avoid the second group trying to nk it. As they passed, itshed out with its tail and sent another knight tumbling off his horse. cknail sighed as observed the conflict. This wasnt going his sides way.


    Sir Masnin seemed to have reached a simr conclusion, because he changed strategies. After turning around to face the Doom again, the riders shifted their formation and split into three equal sized groups. The third hung back behind the other two, who approached Myagnoir from opposite sides like before. Sir Masin and Ilisti led the forward groups, while Werrick led the back one.


    As they raced toward battle, Myagnoir attempted to raise another swirling shield of freezing air. However, as the vortex began to spin around him, ance of hissing me shot out of the ruins and mmed into it, scattering the winds and briefly washing over the drakes hide. The surviving mage from cknails group appeared to still be in the fight. Good. Myagnoir was undamaged by the magical attack but snarled angrily as it turned to face the riders charging it. Its blue feathery crest rippled as if to disy its rage at being challenged.


    Myagnoir tensed up as if in preparation to fight, but the approaching knights didnt immediately attack. Instead, the first two groups split up and rode past it, before quickly turning around. Growling, Myagnoir could only watch as it was encircled, and only then did Sir Masnin and Ilisti lead their forces in. They moved cautiously as the advanced all at once. cknail smiled to himself. It was obvious Sir Masnin was nning on pinning the Doom down so that the third group of knights could get strike a powerful blow. That was a good way to hunt something so big and nasty.


    The Doom of Coroulis didnt like being surrounded. It snarled and hissed as itshed out with its ws and tail. The riders under Sir Masninsmand were being cautious, but they still took a few hits. Two knights were thrown off their mounts, although one got back onto his feet. As cknail watched, a third rider was bitten in half by a snap of Myanoirs jaws. He wouldnt be getting back up.


    The knights werent ineffective, though. Ilisti dismounted from his horse and rushed in on foot. Dodging a w, he then countered with a sh of his own. His heatnce cut through scales, leaving a smoking gash on Myagnoirs leg. Enraged, Myagnoir turned to face him and hunched down as if to pounce. That was when Sir Masnin ran in and stabbed one of the beasts back legs. Hed also dismounted.


    Startled, Myagnoir yelped and almost lost its bnce as it flinched. Off bnce, itshed out at Sir Masnin with its tail. The pdin took a ncing blow and was knocked backwards. He then fell and rolled across the ground but got up a secondter. He didnt seem wounded. It was hard to hurt a Vessel in full armor.


    Taking advantage of the distraction, Lord Ilisti charged at the beast. Myagnoir responded by swiping at him with a w, but the beast was still off bnce, and the vympir was able to duck under the attack. He then stabbed the Myagnor in the chest with thence. The weapon hissed and smoked as it sunk almost a foot into the beasts flesh.


    Roaring in pain and rage, Myagnoir jumped back. Its eyes glowed menacingly as it gathered mana, and uponnding, there was a sh of blue light. cknail blinked. For second, it seemed like everyone had frozen in surprise, but that wasnt right. Their upper bodies were still moving. Their lower bodies were simply stuck to the ground by ice that had risen up from the earth.


    Steam rose from the humans boots as their amulets fought to free them, but they werent quite fast enough. Ilisiti pulled one foot free, but before he could get the other, Myagnoir spun and hit him with a swing of his tail. The was a metallic ringing and the vympir was sent flying. He hit a pile of stone next to the road, sending up a cloud of dust.


    cknail winced and then looked down the road. He sensed something was amiss. What was taking Werrick so long?

 Bane of Humanity 11

    Bane of Humanity 11


    After sending Ilisti flying with a swipe of his its tail, Myagnoir shifted its weight and hunched up defensively. Most of the human warriors had already managed to get themselves or their mounts free from the ice that the mutant drake had bound their feet with, and they were now closing in to keep up the attack. Sir Masnin was the most aggressive. Ducking under a sh from a w, he hacked at the beasts ankle before backing off. Red marred the drakes scales. It looked like hed drawn blood.


    Werrick had been hanging back with a squad of knights, but at that moment, he finally urged his men forward toward the drake. cknail hissed in annoyance as he watched them. Werrick had certainly taken his time, a suspicious amount of it. Either he was a coward, or he was ying a very dangerous game.


    The tter of hooves on stone filled the air as the knights charged, causing Myagnoir to nce in their direction. The drake then turned and opened its mouth, as if to roar at them or assault them with magic, but Sir Masnin immediately leaped into action.


    Press the attack! We must keep the beast upied! he yelled as he jumped forward to stab the beast in the leg again. Pulling hisnce free, he then stabbed at Myagnoirs underbelly.


    At the same time, several of his subordinates were also moving in to threaten the mutant drake and hack at its vulnerable spots. This forced to Myagnoir to turn back and confront them, lest it leave its soft belly vulnerable to their glowing weapons. The great beast stumbled back and bit at them with its humongous jaws. Wary of the creatures jagged teeth, which were the size of mens forearms, all of Sir Masnins men were pushed back. Even the armored pdin would die instantly if bitten.


    However, it had never been Sir Masnins job to wound the drake. His squad and him were only supposed to surround it and pin it down, which theyd aplished. Crouched defensively, Myagnoir waspletely open to the charge from Werrick and the knights. Galloping at full-speed they made a close pass against the drake with heatnces levelled. Myagnoirs back was covered by thick scales, but the magical weapons managed to cut through it. As knight after knight rode past, almost a dozen long smoking wounds appeared on the drakes hide.


    Roaring in pain, Myagnoir swirled around andshed out at Werrick with a w, cknail grinned expectantly, but the bandit lord saw the attacking and managed to lead his mount out of the way of the blow. That was disappointing, but Myagnoir wasnt done yet. Still roaring, the beast attacked with his other front w, and this time he managed to hit his target. The beasts ws ripped into an armored knight, going right through his steel te armor and severing the mans arm. He fell screaming as his terrified mount ran past.


    cknail watched all this with mixed feelings of excitement and trepidation. The battle was fun to watch, and his allies had gotten in some good blows, but he wasnt sure they were winning. Theyd lost almost half a dozen fighters, and he wasnt sure theyd done any real damage to their foe. If the beast didnt start to grow tired and weak, it seemed unlikely that theyd win this fight. Ilistis fall in particr had severely hurt their chances.


    Sighing, cknail began to make his way closer to the fight. He should probably check on his vympir ally. He could do that without getting too close to the giant murder drake, and it might turn the fight around. cknail needed the humans to win this battle. His own ns depended on it, and hed rather not deal with the boggarts alone.


    As thest of Werricks mounted warriors rode out of the fight, Myagnoir was free to deal with Sir Masnin and the others again. Their battle resumed as the warriors worked together in an attempt to keep the beast distracted and prevent it from moving around too much. They needed to keep it on the road. The drake bit and shed at them as they ducked in and out ofbat.


    Soon, cknail reached the pile of rubble where Ilisti had fallen. Amongst the shattered stone and dusty bricks, he easily spotted the vympirs dark armor. It glinted in the sunlight despite the dust.


    Looking the scene over, cknail saw that Ilisti seemed intact, although he appeared to be unconscious. That, or dead. It was hard to tell. Thankfully, his armor seemed to only have a few small dents in it and he didnt appear to be bleeding everywhere. Grunting, the hobgoblin removed some rocks from atop the vympir and then pulled his helmet off so he could get a better look.


    Ilistis ck hair was stered all across his pale face and his eyes were closed. cknail studied him for a moment, and then poked him in the cheek several times. That failed to provoke a reaction, so cknail put his finger under the mans nose to check for breathing. His first thought had been to lean over and listen, but hed quickly discarded that idea. For some reason, he was concerned about the unconscious vympir lurching awake and biting his neck.


    That turned out to be an unnecessary worry. A moment after cknail had put his finger under the vympirs noise, his eyes fluttered open and he began coughing. Ah, he was definitely alive! cknail grinned happily. Time to get him back in the fight!


    Ack, what is that smell? the vympir groaned before coughing weakly again. His ck eyes seemed unfocused, and he copsed a secondter.


    Oh, no. Ilisti was still clearly still out of it. cknail sighed as he withdrew his digit. Unlike a human, he knew he smelled great. Ilisti was definitely still out of it. Yep.


    Before deciding what to do next, cknail took a moment to study the ongoing battle. He didnt want to be caught by surprise if the flow of the fight suddenly changed or if Myagnoir headed his way.


    Sir Masnin and his subordinates still had Myagnoir on the defensive, although it seemed that theyd lost one or two more members. cknail wasnt the best at counting, but thats what it looked like to him. The warriors and knights surrounded the beast and kept it busy by lunging in to attack its scaly body before it could counterattack.


    Meanwhile, Werricks mounted force had finished turning around and wasing in for another charge. Every one of theirnces was pointed straight toward the drake and they shimmered with constrained heat.


    Seeing his allies approach, Sir Masnin redoubled his efforts and began yelling orders. Keep the beast constrained and we can end this! Dont let up.


    As the knights thundered closer, the pdin ran in to distract Myagnoir again. Moving quickly, he stabbed one of the beasts front feet while it was looking the other way. The drake snarled but couldnt spare the time and focus to do more than half-heartedly try to backhand Sir Masnin away. The clumsy counterattack missed. Myagnoir was being pressed in on all sides by the other human fighters. It had to keep turning and snapping to keep them away from its belly.


    Seeing the horsemen closing in again, Myagnoir attempted to raise another shield of freezing air. All the fighters stumbled back away from the swirling vortex, but that simply gave the remaining kingdom mages a clear shot. Almost immediately, a beam of fire shot out of the nearby ruins and seared through the shield, dispersing it.


    That cleared the way for Sir Masnin and his men to dive back intobat. Myagnoir caught one mounted knight and violently pped him and his steed aside with a w, but the others kept up their attack. cknail found their tenacity impressive, or maybe they were simply desperate now. Regardless, several of their weapons bit into Myagnoirs flesh as they put themselves at risk to distract the beast from their charging allies. Leading from the front, Sir Masnin threw himself right into the fray. Perhaps realizing that they desperately needed tond a solid blow on the mutant drake soon, he challenged Myagnoir head on.


    For honor. For humanity. For divinity! the pdin roared as he ran straight toward the beasts head.


    epting the challenge, Myagnoir let out a vicious growl and turned to give the pdin an intense re that caused both its yellow eyes to glow intensely for a moment. Then, its neck extended like a snakes as it snapped at Sir Masnin with lightning speed. Moving just as quickly, the pdin blurred as he dodged the closing teeth by throwing himself sideways. He then shed at the beasts neck. Hisnce parted the scales, leaving a long gash that quickly began gushing out blood. It wasnt a shallow cut. The Doom of Coroulis had been truly wounded now.


    However, now Sir Masnin was off-bnce and exposed. cknail nced toward Werricks force and growled angrily. The bandit lord had slowed down his charge for some reason, and that meant Sir Masnin was alone and unsupported. If Werrick hadnt slowed, his force would have hit Myagnoir already and drawn his attention, but now the beast could focus on the annoyance in front of it.


    Rearing back, Myagnoir swiped at Sir Masnin with one of its front ws. The pdin tried to dodge by jumping back, but the tips of the ws caught the edge of his silver armor, causing him to stumble. Off-bnce, he was stuck in ce as the Doom of Coroulis snarled and snapped at him again. cknails heart skipped a beat as he watched. This time, the drakes huge jaws closed down on the pdin, piercing armor and cutting deep into flesh. A flick of Myagnoirs neck then pulled the man up into air, so that the drake could to flip him into his mouth. The beast then began chewing as an incredibly satisfied expression appeared on its face. cknail winced. This was bad for so many reasons. Hed actually liked Sir Masnin. He was rather fair and practical for a human, despite his suicidal need to fight monsters and protect people.


    Only then did Werrick begin his attack, while the drake was still chewing and swallowing. The bandit lord and the rest of his mounted squad held their heatnces steady as they zoomed toward Myagnoirs exposed side. Werrick led the way and was the first to plunge hisnce into the drakes side as the riders made their second pass. The weapon sizzled as it slid over three feet into the beast. It then got stuck, and Werrick was forced ride on without it. The assault didnt end there though. All of the other riders brought their own weapons to bear on the drakes side. Myagnoir screamed in pain loudly enough to shake the air and hurt cknails ears. He winced, and a ringing noise lingered even after the beast fell silent.


    As the knights rode past, they left Myagnoirs hide a bloody mess of long bleeding wounds. Despite the creatures immense bulk, cknail knew that hed been gravelly injured. He just wished Werrick hadnt been the one to do it, and that Sir Masnin hadnt been chewed up and swallowed like a dry biscuit. cknail found the timing of Werricks dy deeply suspicious. It had been a little convenient for him and far too inconvenient for everyone that stood in his way. The Wolf was obviously making his move, so cknail would have to be wary and elerate his own ns. Being all alone in the ruins made that difficult though. Where had all his minions ended up?


    cknails dark thoughts were interrupted by the sound of rubble tumbling behind him. He nced over his shoulder at Ilisti, but the vympir hadnt moved. He was still lying on the ground. Instead, the noise appeared to havee from further back, out of sight. cknail frowned as he studied the ruins, but he didnt have to wait long. A man stepped into sight a momentter, and he was swiftly followed by a woman. They both quickly spotted cknail and gave him furious res that made their unfriendly intentions clear, before briefly ncing at Ilistis fallen form.


    Both humans were familiar to cknail, which was unsurprising. The idea of some random unknown humans wandering into Coroulis at this time was rather silly. The man was one Werricks thugs, who had stuck close to his leader over the entire journey. He was tall with a smooth face and a bald head that cknail approved of, although his intelligent and convenient hairstyle didnt make him any less of an enemy. The longsword he was holding made that clear.


    cknail instantly recognized the woman. It was Werricks lieutenant Zelena. Her long blonde hair, feminine elegance, and stylish furs made her quite unique among the expedition members. Even cknail would never mistake her for any other human. She wasnt armed with any obvious weapon, but delicate gold chains hung from one of her hands, and cknail knew not to underestimate her. She had caused trouble for him before and was one of Werricks most trusted subordinates.


    What are you doing here? cknail asked them as he gripped the hilt of his sword with one hand.


    Zelena stepped forward and smiled in a way that failedpletely to be anything like friendly. I would ask you the same, but its obvious. We both came here to check on the wounded. Why dont you leave this to us?


    No, go away now, cknail replied coldly as he drew his weapon. The de slid free of the sheath with subtle ringing sound. There was no way his guests had good intentions. They certainly had no reason to help Ilisti, who was Werricks enemy.


    Instead of replying, Werricks minions stepped forward to confront cknail and their expressions hardened. Warily, cknail moved to intercept them. He didnt think they were stupid enough to not realize how amazing he was, so he stayed light on his feet and ready to move. They undoubtedly had some hidden weapons of their own.


    The hobgoblin was right, as usual. Zelena raised her chain covered hand, revealing her palm and the golden disc nestled there. There was a very magical looking white crystal in the center of it.


    cknail was already dodging sideways as a st of lightning shot out of the crystal and tore through the space hed been upying less than a second ago. Still moving, cknail dove toward the swordsman, so that he could use him as a shield against further magical attacks. He got within range of the man easily enough and then unleashed a flurry of vicious shes.


    Surprisingly, the swordsman managed to defend himself. Steel loudly shed against steel as their des met in a storm of incredibly quick blows. cknail grunted in effort as he kept up his attack. The man was not only skilled, he was also too fast to be a normal human. He was a Vessel. Thisplicated things. cknail had been right to be cautious. He was up against both a mage and a Vessel. Werrick must have gone to quite some effort to keep their abilities hidden from the rest of the expedition.


    Hoping to knock his opponent off-bnce, cknail tapped into his core and began radiating his fear aura as he shed down at the mans face. The magical terror hit the enemy swordsman, causing him to flinch, but he recovered instantly. cknails attack was sidestepped, and their sh continued.


    While cknail was fighting the swordsman, Zelena attempted to slip around and get a clear shot at cknail, but he didnt let her. Keeping one eye on her, he made sure to maneuver the swordsman between them whenever she moved. He didnt feel like getting hit by lightning.


    This isnt working. Push the savage freak away! Zelena suddenly ordered the man.


    Nodding, the swordsman suddenly stepped forward to block one of cknails attacks. Their des met with a loud metallic ring and then locked together as the fighters muscles strained against each other.


    cknail attempted to gather up mana to empower himself so he could overpower his arrogant human foe, but then the air around the man began to shimmer. Immediately, cknail tried to disengage, but he wasmitted to his attack and couldnt just flee. He tried parrying his enemy by stepping to the side and redirecting the blow, but he was toote. The shimmering suddenly stopped, and then the air around the swordsman exploded. The st wave hit cknail hard, lifting him up and throwing him back several feet, but he managed tond on his feet. He didnt seem injured either, or at least nothing worse than bruises. He could keep fighting and the pain simply made him angrier.


    Thats cheating. Fight fair, cknailined as he steadied himself. Magic was so unfair. He hated it. What kind of jerk used magic like that in the middle of a sword fight?


    The real problem was his positioning. cknail winced and readied himself for trouble. The swordsman had taken advantage of the st to step backwards, clearing Zelenas line of fire. She was already aiming her mana stone his way.


    Lightning burst out of the white crystal and reached for cknail with incredible speed. He tried to dodge, but he was slightly too slow. The edge of the bolt caught his arm, sending burning pain through his entire left side and setting his coat on fire. Thankfully, it was only a small me that quickly went out. Of more concern was the numbness. cknails left arm felt limp and weak. He wouldnt be able to fight properly with it anymore.


    The swordsman smirked as he approached the hobgoblin. Weve got the bloody creature now. To think this subhuman has caused the boss so much trouble. Hes nothing much!

 Bane of Humanity 12

    Bane of Humanity 12


    cknails left arm tingled numbly as it resisted his attempt to move it properly. He could only get it to shiver and twitch, which wasnt nearly enough. He was in the middle of a sword fight and would have really liked to have both his arms working properly. Being hit by lightning sucked.


    Grunting, cknail eyed his two foes. The sword-wielding Vessel was grinning triumphantly as he brandished his weapon, while Zelena had a more serious look on her face. She was eyeing him carefully as she kept the magic jewelry in her hand pointed his way. Undoubtedly, she was already preparing to hit him with another st of lightning. cknail was going to have to do something about that, but what? Hmm, magic would have to counter magic.


    Reaching down into himself, cknail grabbed control of the mana within his core and began circting it through his body with increased intensity. Instantly, the tingling in his arm abated somewhat, but that hadnt been cknails goal. Gathering some of the power up, cknail turned to growl at Zelena while he threw the invisible power straight at her.


    Unprepared, Zelena gasped and stumbled back as the magical terror washed over her. Her raised hand fell as she shivered uncontrobly for a moment. Her fearful reaction enmed cknails predatory instincts. He wished he could have lunged forward and torn the woman apart, but he wasnt given a chance. Seeing his ally falter, the human Vessel charged in to attack the hobgoblin.


    Steeling himself, cknail was forced to defend himself using a one-handed grip on his sword. It was less than ideal, and hisck of leverage quickly allowed the human to push him back. There was one upside though. Now that he was in close-quartersbat, Zelena couldnt get a clear shot on him anymore. Yep, all he had to worry about was getting a sword shoved down his throat. Yeah!


    Stumbling back over a loose brick, cknail hurriedly ducked under a vicious sh that had been aimed at his face. He then had to sidestep and dodge several more attacks from his enemys de. He desperately tried to counterattack, but with only one hand, his attacks were easily blocked or dodged.


    Growling in frustration, cknail was pushed back toward a solid wall. The stone was crumbling, but that wouldnt stop it from getting in his way. Desperately, cknail tried to step sideways, but Zelena cut him off and raised her hand menacingly.


    Dont even think about it. There is no escape for the likes of you, she told him in a venomous tone.


    Stuck in ce, cknail could only jerk his head backwards as the human Vessel stepped forward and attacked again. His de was a blur of speed as it sliced toward the hobgoblins face.


    cknails dodge wasnt quite fast enough. The sword bit into flesh and tasted blood as it sliced into cknails cheek. Yelping as he jumped back against the wall, cknail raised his weakened hand and clumsily felt up his face. Both his eyes were still working, good. The cut on his cheek wasnt too deep, good. His nose There was a chunk missing from the tip of his nose! cknail gagged and felt sick. No, this couldnt be happening! His nose was his best feature, and now it was ruined forever. Would Herah even want to sleep with him anymore if he didnt have a perfect long pointy nose?


    My nose! Your deaths will be beyond pain! cknail hissed furiously as he red at his petty human attackers. How dare they cripple him so. He would tear them apart with his bare hands and then suck the marrow from their bones!


    The hobgoblins rage allowed him to pull up even more mana, which was helping his arm heal, but it was still very weak after being hit by Zelenas lightning. More fear-based attacks probably wouldnt be effective since hed already used them on both his attackers and couldnt rely on the element of surprise anymore.


    Youre finished now. A wounded animal that doesnt know its already dead, the Vessel announced as he approached cknail with his de raised.


    There was nothing the hobgoblin could do but ready his defenses. He was very aware of the cold stone wall behind him. There was nowhere to run and he was outmatched. His odds of surviving this werent great No, he refused to die here without avenging his nose! Also, there was Saeter and Herad. He couldnt forget about them. They needed to be avenged too, and he was so close.


    The enemy vessel stepped forward andunched a flurry of attacks that immediately put cknail on the defensive. As he desperately defended himself, the hobgoblin took two shallow cuts on his arms that began leaking blood. Any moment now, he was going to falter and take a fatal blow. cknail nced hopefully over toward Ilistis fallen form, but the vympir was stillpletely out of it. What azy useless bastard.


    Suddenly, thebatants des crashed together. The impact caused the steel to ring and sent a shiver down cknails arm. Then, the weapon slipped from his grasp. He could only stare in horror at his fumble.


    Now youre mine! the vesselughed triumphantly as he raised his de to deliver the finishing blow.


    That was when a red-topped blur shot out from behind a pile of rubble and straight toward Zelena. The female mage spun around, but was too slow to prevent her attacker from stabbing her in the side.


    Die, you stuck up bitch! Khitaughed as she pulled her weapon back. This will teach you to mess with the Red Cat!


    The who? No, Khitas nonsense wasnt important. cknail concentrated on his enemies.


    Zelena gasped in pain and shock, although her wound didnt look fatal. Meanwhile, her ally nced over to see what was going on and hesitated upon noticing the new arrival. That moment was all cknail needed. He might have been disarmed, but he didnt need a weapon to kill humans. He was a hobgoblin, a natural killer. Lunging forward, he dove in under the mans raised sword and tackled his opponent to the ground.


    Gasping, the man tried to defend himself, but cknail was in close now. Driven by rage and cruel instinct, the mutant hobgoblin pulled himself up and chomped down on the vessels exposed neck. His long sharp teeth parted flesh with ease and a flick of his neck tore open a huge gaping wound. A half-gurgle scream filled the air, before cknail silenced it by taking another big bite. Now the man was reduced to a shivering pile of meat whose life was quickly draining away.


    The taste of blood and the feel of flesh in cknails mouth was deeply satisfying, even if humans didnt taste great. Still, he let himself swallow the meat and then purr happily as he got to his feet, leaving his defeated foe beneath him. Normally, he wouldnt eat humans, but he deserved to take something back from the stupid human that had crippled his nose. Really, the man had gotten off too easy.


    Up ahead, Zelena was still dealing with Khita. As cknail watched, she threw the redhead back with a st of force. Holding her bleeding side, she then nced toward cknail. A look of pure horror appeared on her face as she saw the blood-soaked and manically grinning hobgoblin stalking toward her. Stumbling back, she grabbed an amulet that hung around her neck. cknail prepared to dodge an attack, but none came. Instead, Zelenas image became hazy and then disappeared a momentter, leaving cknail blinking in surprise.


    Um, where did that blonde whore go? Khita asked in surprise.


    I dont know, cknail replied as he looked around. How are you even here? I thought you ran from the cold.


    The redhead chuckled and stuck her chest out proudly. As if that could keep me away from a good fight. Once I got warmed up, I ran back into the cold and took one of those fancy amulets off a fallen knight.


    There was still no sign of Zelena, but cknail had bigger concerns. Climbing up onto a small pile of rubble, cknail looked over toward the fight with Myagnoir.


    Things there werent going particr well. Lacking Sir Masnins leadership and shinning example, the remaining fighters from the first group had scattered before the Doom of Coroulis rage. No longer encircled, the great mutant drake was now retreating off the road and into an alley between two tall buildings. Werricks riders were already abandoning their next charge, as they realized they wouldnt make it in time. Myagnoir had been gravelly wounded, but it was far from finished and was getting away.


    cknail growled furiously and his fingers curled up into ws. This was all Werricks fault! Hed set Sir Masnin up to die by not supporting him properly and hed sent valuable fighters after Ilisti instead of using them to fight Myagnoir. The selfish bastard was ruining everything.


    Khita climbed up beside cknail and observed the fight too. Well, that sucks donkey balls.


    As cknail watched, Werricks riders came to stop alongside the scattered remains of Sir Masnins force. The Wolf began yelling orders, but it was obvious that Myagnoir had escaped. Then, the air shimmered next to Werricks horse and Zelena appeared. The two quickly began talking and then the male femage pointed straight toward cknail and Khitas location.


    Huh, thats even worse, the redhead observed as the hobgoblin groaned.


    At least cknails arm was feeling better now. He flexed his fingers and they responded almost normally, although they were still weak.


    cknail took a moment to watch what Werrick was doing, and he really didnt like it. His archenemy seemed to be giving a rousing speech to the other humans, who were responding and getting worked up. It also didnt appear that he was pointing them in Myagnoirs direction. No, he punctuated one particrly loud bout of yelling by gesturing toward cknails location.


    This was not good. It was obvious that most the humans in the expedition had barely tolerated the hobgoblins presence, and cknail had known that Sir Masnin was the only one keeping everyone else in line. However, the pdin was gone now, and it seemed like Werrick was having no problem taking over and turning everyone against cknail. In fact, he seemed to consider getting rid of cknail more of a priority than finishing off Myagnoir. Werricks riders reformed and began moving toward cknail.


    Ugh, what do we do now, boss? Khita asked him. cknail snorted. So, he was her boss now?


    We run away, he replied as he hopped down from the pile of rubble and ran over to Ilistis side.


    Thankfully, the vympir was awake. He groaned and gave cknail a questioning look. What happened?


    A big lizard smacked you with its tail before eating Sir Masnin. Now everyone is trying to kill us. You need to get up, cknail told him.


    This earned them a confused stare, but the hobgoblin and the redhead simply grabbed his armor and pulled him up into something resembling a standing position. He wobbled a bit but didnt fall over.


    Staring into the vympirs eyes, cknail gave him some stern advice. You need to run and hide for a while. Dont let the humans find you.


    Ilisti nodded and straightened up, so they let him stand on his own.


    Well buy you some time. Its us they want, Khita added proudly.


    cknail stared at her. That was not part of his n, and why was she including herself? Werrick couldnt care less about her. Did she want to be hunted? Stupid human.


    Werrick was on his way, so they didnt hang around. The allies split up and ran into the ruins, with Khita and cknail going one way, while Ilisti went to find somewhere to hide. As he ran, cknail could hear the pounding of hooves as Werrick closed in. At least all the rubble and tight turns would slow the horses down a lot, and cknail had a n. He needed to make it out of the lost city and rendezvous with his hobs.


    ncing over his shoulder as he ran, cknail saw a horseman ride out from behind a building.


    This way. I found the treacherous creature! the rider yelled to signal to all hispanions.


    cknail bristled as he grabbed Khita and pulled her around a corner so they couldnt be seen so easily. Treacherous creature? Hed never betrayed the expedition! Hed never had a chance. It had been Werrick that had done that. All these stupid humans were going to pay for being so dumb.


    There was shouting from behind cknail and Khita as they ran toward the gate theyde in through. This was quickly followed by some yelling over to cknails left. It seemed like the horsemen were spreading out to nk them. All the nearby ruined homes and bushes made it difficult for Werricks men to find them, but it also made it almost impossible for cknail to see what Werrick was nning as well.


    This way! the hobgoblin told Khita as he veered right away from the noise.


    Running down a narrow side street, the pair passed several small buildings that had mostly fallen apart. Empty windows and shadowy doors surrounded them, but they saw no signs of movement.


    Were not going to run into Myagnoir, are we? Khita asked nervously. That thing''s still out here.


    No, it went in the other direction, cknail replied. Or, at least hed thought it had. All these bleached stone buildings looked the same and hed gotten a little turned around.


    Suddenly, there was a tter of hooves, and a knight on horseback rode out onto the street ahead of them. cknail and Khita immediately scrambled to a stop as the armored warrior turned his mount around to face them and yelled to get his allies attention.


    Boar crap, cknail cursed as the knight began charging toward them. They wouldnt be able to outrun the rider in the open.


    Through here, the hobgoblin yelled as he ran over to one of the nearby homes and jumped through a window.


    Landing on his feet, cknail kept running through the empty building. The only thing in his way was some wooden debris on the floor and a lot of dust. All the homes furniture had long since fallen apart. Behind him, Khita jumped inside the building just as cknail vaulted through another window on the far side of the room. Once outside, the hobgoblin found himself on another side street. The old crumbling buildings were tightly packed together here, so there was no way the knight coulde over here. Good, that meant they were safe for a moment.


    Khitanded next to cknail, and they both began running again. cknail was fairly certain they were headed for the gate. He would have asked Khita, but she was useless.


    Using his long pointy ears, cknail listened carefully for any sign of pursuit. He could hear at least two group of riders off in the distance, but neither was ahead of them. The riders kept yelling at each other, so locating them wasnt hard. Hmm, was heading for the gate the best idea? They might be able to climb over the city wall if they could find a spot where some of those thick vines had grown up over the outside. Well, the way to the gate seemed open for now, so theyd try that first.


    The narrow residential street the pair were on led to the city wall, so cknail and Khita took it all the way there before turning left toward the gate. They could see the top of it above some rows of ruined buildings, but there was no straight road leading to there. Still, with no other real choice, they sprinted in the direction of the gate.


    Unfortunately, that was when Werrick finally caught up to them. As cknail nced down another side street as he ran past it, he saw the bandit lord and a dozen riders charging right for him. Not good! There was a vicious snarl on the Wolfs face, and none his followers seemed willing to talk over their differences either.


    As the stampede of horsemen turned the corner and began chasing the pair down, Balcknail considered his options. They were all bad. Khita and him were already running with everything they had, but the riders were still closing in. Stupid vile horses! cknail hated all of those hateful beasts. How was riding a big animal like that fair? It wasnt!


    The huffing and wheezing of the knights mounts reached cknails ears as they drew in closer.


    Run the filth down! Avenge our fallen, Werrick yelled to the cheers of the other riders. They sounded as if they were only a few feet away, but were actually at least twenty seconds behind.


    cknail grimaced as he tried to circte mana through his body to increase his speed. It didnt work very well. He was running out of mana. It had been a while since hed had a chance to recharge, and hed been using his powers an awful lot today. Meanwhile, Werricks group drew ever closer.


    The hobgoblin knew that he could speed up a little, but then hed leave Khita behind, and he wouldnt actually be able to escape anyway. It was theter part that mattered there. Maybe he could pick Khita up and throw her at Werrick? Ugh, knowing the redhead, shed somehow survive that, and then hed be run down. Damn them to every hell! He was so close to getting what he wanted. If only Werrick hadnt started his terrible n before cknail could start his own amazing one. Well, that was probably the entire point. Werrick was smart enough to know that cknail held all the advantages when they imed the silver.


    That was when things got much worse. Dashing around a turn, cknail and Khita found themselves facing a dead end. A huge pile of stone blocked their way toward the gate. It looked like a watchtower had fallen off the city wall, and now its bulk waspletely blocking the road.


    As the hobgoblin and the redhead slowed, one of the riders next to Werrick dashed ahead and closed in on them from behind. Sword raised high, he prepared to strike at cknail.

 Worldshift Beta Reading and Discord

    Worldshift Beta Reading and Discord


    Alright, Ive finally gotten this entire novel written, edited, and prepared for beta reading. Writing a book takes a long time. Who knew? Here''s the plot summary of Worldshift: Virtual Revolution.


    <em>Society has grown rich thanks to automation and technology. As a result, jobs are scarce, but its easy for society to provide its people with all their basic needs. Strict proscriptions on research and development prevent disruption, while the government tightly controlsmerce with the help of the mega corporations to prevent economic disharmony.</em>


    <em>Ethan is young and unemployed. One of the many who fail to find a job and join the elite. Nheless, he lives a secure life thanks to the economic support he gets, and he finds excitement ying virtual reality games where he can take risks andsh out.</em>


    <em>However, despite his security and determination to avoid whats happening around him in the real world, he cant help but feel that something is wrong with society. That feeling bes inescapable when he starts ying thetest event in the worlds most popr game, Worldshift. Thousands of yers are lured into climbing the Tower of Ascension by an incredible prize, where they team-up and battle amongst themselves, but nothing is as it seems. The tower is far more than a game. Not only are its rewards real, but so are its dangers.</em>


    <em>Change ising to a long stagnant world -a virtual revolution- and everything Ethan knows will be threatened.</em>


    Writing Worldshift was an experiment and an exercise to improve my writing craft. Its abination of a more traditional sci-fi and litrpg. I wanted a chance to write a contained story with a obvious beginning and end that was a single book in length. I also wanted the chance to really edit it several times before it was released, which you cant do with a web serial. The end product is very different from The Iron Teeth, but I hope people like it. At over 160000 words its not short.


    I believe that writing Worldshift made me a better writer though. Among other things, it allowed me to focus on how to craft interesting characters that feel more real and have contained arcs.


    The beta draft of the novel is avable to VIP tier users at Patreon if youre interested in taking part in the beta reading. Ive set up a discord server so that beta readers can discuss the novel.


    If youre not interested in that, then you can still head over to the discord to chat with people about my work. There are several channels where you can discuss different things. After the beta reading is done and I''ve done another round of editing, I n on making this novel availible on Amazon.


    Thanks for reading!

 Bane of Humanity 13

    Bane of Humanity 13


    cknail scrambled to a stop and turned to face the mounted knight that was leading the charge by Werricks force. Behind the hobgoblin, the fallen watchtower blocked the road. The long pile of shattered stonepletely cut off Khita and his path toward the gate.


    The lead knight charged forward until he loomed right above cknail with his sword raised high in preparation to strike. cknail met the eyes of the brown warhorse and grimaced. He was cornered now and had no other option but to fight madly with every shred of his remaining strength, like a trapped beast. He wouldnt go down without a fight.


    cknails body was tired and his mana low, but he still reached within and grasped as much power as he could. Shaping it with his will, he then pushed it out in one huge wave of rippling terror. The magic washed forward, hitting riders and mounts before seeping into their minds and overwhelming them.


    As expected, almost all the knights resisted the mental assault, but the same could not be said for their mounts. cknails power tore into the minds of the horses, ripping thoughts apart and recing them with raw terror. Screaming, the beasts attempted to escape from cknail, who loomed like a horrifying shadowy giant in their minds. Ha, if cknail was going down, he would take as many horses with him as possible!


    Some of the horses tried to scramble to a halt mid-charge, while others suddenly jumped to the side. As a result, Werricks force immediately descended into violent chaos as riders collided with each other or were thrown off their panicking mounts. At least one man was trampled and many others barely managed to stay mounted. The riders ground to a halt before cknail, their charge ended as they dispersed and attempted to regain control of their mounts.


    Feeling hollow and weak, cknail stumbled back toward Khita, who stepped next to him and raised her de defensively.


    Are you alright? Can you keep running, she asked in a worried tone. His weakness was obvious.


    ncing to both sides, cknail didnt see anywhere to go. The buildings here had all copsed. Trying to climb over them while being chased would be very dangerous. However, before cknail could reply to Khita, he noticed something rather unfortunate. One rider was pushing through the chaos and headed his way. It was Werrick. He had kept control of his mount and he looked quite angry.


    You will not escape me, vermin, the bandit lord roared as he rode forward. Today, you die and the North bes mine atst.


    cknail tried to sense the mind of Werricks mount, and found it to be unusually bright and strong. It even seemed to contain mana. Was Werricks mount a Vessel? Such beasts did exist, although cknail had never seen them before. Looking closer, the hobgoblin realized that this wasnt the same horse that Werrick had ridden on the journey here. He must have taken it from someone else. What a thief.


    Im out of ideas, do you have something? cknail asked Khita as he watched Werrick trot closer. He was sure she didnt, but he wanted to hear her admit it aloud.


    Khita just grinned. Yes, we can take him together before the others recover. We got this.


    cknail groaned. What a stupid idea. He should have known better than to ask Khita anything.


    Khitas words seemed to concern Werrick though. Since cknail didnt seem to be going anywhere, the mounted vessel brought his mount to a stop. Instead of attacking, he simply waited for his allies to recover so that he wouldnt have to fight alone. cknail grimaced. What a coward. Now, he might actually have to follow Khitas dumb n. Attacking the bandit lord now would still be better than waiting to get overwhelmed by his entire force.


    An unexpected ttering noise suddenly drew cknails attention over to his left. It sounded like falling rubble. ncing that way, cknail saw a brown blur speeding his way. Flinching in surprise, he spun to face his new assant, who he recognized a momentter. It was the mutant goat! Charging by cknail, the beast tried to grab at the hobgoblins backpack and tear it off his back. It managed to catch the fabric, but cknail didnt let go of his prizes so easily. He held on to it as the goats momentum began pulling him away.


    I got you! Khita yelled as she grabbed his arm to help steady him.


    The goat didnt slow and cknail felt his bag begin to tear, so he swiftly changed his approach. Spinning around, he grabbed one of the goats horns. However, this didnt slow the beast. Almost instantly, he was pulled along after the speeding goat, so he loosened his hold on the bag and jumped on the goats back. This was made difficult by the fact Khita was still holding on to his arm, but after briefly considering kicking her in the face so she let go, cknail pulled her up behind him.


    What in damnation! Stop them, Werrick yelled furiously as the goat continued its charge right up the tall pile of rubble along the side of the street. His only reply was mad excitedughter from Khita.


    Leaping from stone to stone, therge mutant goat barely seemed to notice its riders. There was a surprising amount of muscle under its thick fur, but cknail bounced on its back painfully as bony bits stabbed into his soft bits. Still, he gripped the creatures horns with everything he had. They were escaping!


    Reaching the top of the rubble, the goat began descending, and cknail had to hang on for his dear life. How was it that people could ride animals like horses? This was obviously unnatural. Not to mention, incredibly painful. cknails thighs felt like they were being beaten by hammers, and the less he thought about his groin the better.


    Upon reaching the ground, the goat began speeding toward the city gate. That was great, since cknail had no way to steer the creature, and if he fell off the beast now, he was pretty sure he wouldnt be able to walk for a while. Behind him, Khita was stillughing. It didnt sound like she was in nearly as much pain as him.


    Gritting his teeth, cknail clung to the goats back. They sped through the streets for a few moments, and then shot out of the city gates and into the forest. That was when their mount decided to try and rid itself of the annoyances on its back. Flinging itself about, the goat began trying to buck them.


    cknail managed to hold on for about three seconds before being thrown off. Then, he was airborne for another second before hitting the ground face first. Thankfully, the ground was soft loam here, and thus the pain from falling wasnt actually worse than what hed felt while riding. Groaning, he decided to take a moment to recover and simplyy on the ground. That was when Khitanded on his back. As she rolled away, the hobgoblin coughed and groaned. So far, this wasnt a good day.


    Looking up, cknail saw that the goat was around twenty feet away and was ignoring everything around it as it tore into the hobgoblins bag in pursuit of the cheese within. Noticing cknails hostile stare, it turned and gave him a look full of contempt and utter disregard before going back to snacking. cknail had very mixed feeling about this mutant. Technically, it had sort of saved his life twice, but it was still an arrogant thief. He wanted to kick it in the face.


    Wow, that was incredible! Khitaughed merrily from beside him as she climbed to her feet. Can you believe how lucky we are?


    No, cknail hissed angrily as he carefully stood up. Just no. His everything was tender and sore. He didnt want to start moving, but he had no choice. Werrick wouldnt have given up. Hed be here soon.


    cknail twisted around to stretch out, and his spine made several ufortable cracking noises. Ouch. He winced as he did a few more stretches. There was much to do. Hed had a run of bad luck, but his n could still work. He was a tactical genius after all.


    Lets go, cknail told Khita as he began walking deeper into the forest and she fell in behind him. He didnt quite manage to walk normally thanks to his sore butt, but he managed to limp along at a fair pace.


    Leaving the trail and the goat behind, cknail attempted to disappear into the forest before Werricks force showed up. He headed for a big clump of bushes and then passed through them before walking past several shadowy trees. The day had grownte while the expedition had fought Myagnoir. It wasnt quite so bright out now and the forest had grown dim. That was a small advantage to cknail since he was running away, and humans relied on sight so much to track.


    He didnt get far before he heard signs of pursuit. There was snorting from horses as they rode out of the ruined city gates and stomped over bushes. ncing over his shoulder, cknail saw shes of movement through the trees as riders spread out. The enemy was barely visible off in the distance, but they were determined and could catch up quickly if they spotted him.


    Werricks enraged voice echoed through the trees. Find them! They dismounted out here so they couldnt have gone far. Do not let the hob escape! He dies today. There will be no more sulking about in the woods for him.


    There were several shouts of acknowledgement and then the riders flooded out into the forest. cknail could hear more than one of them headed in his direction.


    We need to move faster! he whispered to Khita as he picked up the pace.


    Racing ahead of the pursuers, the hobgoblin and the redhead hurried through the forest. Sticking to the shadows and bushes, they tried to stay out of sight as they ran. Since their pursuers were mounted, cknail wasnt too worried about leaving tracks. He simply didnt want to get run down.


    Several minutes passed before cknail detected someone heading their way. His ears twitched as he heard someone crashing through the bushes toward them.


    Hide in here and dont move, he hissed at Khita as he pushed her into a crevice under a fallen tree trunk. He then threw some leaves and dirt on her, more for fun than for any practical purpose.


    The redhead sputtered angrily, but cknail ignored her and ran over to a nearby tree. Moving quickly, he climbed up into the branches. His ws sank into the bark and wood, making the ascent easy.


    Once up in the tree, cknail scurried out onto a thick branch and looked down. From the ground, he was hidden by some thick clumps of leaves, but he had no problem scanning the forest below for signs of movement. He didnt have to look hard. Within moments, a knight rode into sight. His mount made a lot of noise as it stomped through the bushes.


    As cknail watched from concealment, the rider pulled on his reins to slow his mount and began scanning his surroundings for any sign of his quarry. Like most of the warriors on the expedition, he was wearing a simple chainmail shirt over rugged padding, since heavier armor was too difficult for most of them to carry around all the time. He also had a steel helm on and a sword at his hip. cknail saw no sign of ance, which would have been near useless in the forest anyway.


    The knight approached Khitas hiding spot at a slow trot, and cknail frowned. The man was moving too slowly. He couldnt afford to waste so much time hiding since there were other pursuers out in the forest that would surround them before too long. That meant action was required, even at the risk of revealing his position.


    Shifting his weight forward, cknail ever so carefully pulled himself over to another branch and then began creeping down it. A few momentster, the knight rode below him, so cknail grinned and dropped down on the unsuspecting human. His feetnded on the horses back as his hands grabbed the riders shoulders. Immediately, the horse bucked and whinnied in shock as it felt the unexpected weight on its back. Meanwhile, the rider held on tight and tried to turn to see what had grabbed him. cknail didnt let him. Reaching up, he wrapped one arm around the mans neck and drew a dagger with the other. As the rider struggled in his grasp, cknail pulled the mans chin up and slit his throat. Blood poured from the gaping gash and the man iled about for a moment before going ck from blood loss. As a result, his grip on his mount ended and he began to slide off the horse, taking cknail with him. cknail tried to hold on, but the horse bucked again, and he was thrown off.


    Vicious stinky beasts. Youre probably secretly allied with the boggarts cknail hissed as he stood up and watched the horse run off into the woods. Hed managed tond softly on all fours this time, so he wasnt hurt.


    Can Ie out now? Khita asked from her hiding spot.


    Yes, weve made too much noise. We need to run.


    I didnt make any noise, Khita replied sourly as she crawled out from under the log.


    Just follow me, cknail told her as he began running.


    Already, he could hear shouting and the sound of running hooves echoing through the trees as some of Werricks forces began heading in their direction. Obviously, theyd heard the horses screams and wereing to investigate. cknail sighed as he ran. He could never catch a break.


    Despite the quick pace the pair managed to set, cknail soon heard the pursuit grow closer.


    I see them. This way! someone yelled from behind them.


    However, instead of closing the distance, Werricks forces stayed back. Most likely they were waiting for their boss to show up and engage cknail personally. For now, they were content to keep an eye on them.


    That was when cknail heard a familiar and yet out of ce bird-song from up ahead. Right away, he replied using a different call as loudly as he could while still running. It was as signal from one of his minions whod noticed themotion, and cknail had told him to prepare for a fight. That was about as specific as he could get whilemunicating using bird calls. Hopefully, this wasnt a lone minion that had retreated from Coroulis. cknail could really use some help. He wouldnt be able to stay ahead of Werrick for long.


    Beside the hobgoblin, a huffing and puffing Khita reached into a pocket and pulled out a vial of Elixir. She then chugged the entire thing down.


    No point in saving it now, she grunted as cknail nodded in agreement.


    There was another bird call from up ahead, so cknail shifted direction slightly and headed straight toward it. There was no way a single hobgoblin would be replying. By now, theyd have some idea of what was headed their way, and they were far too cowardly to risk themselves like that.


    ncing back, cknail saw a group of horsemen racing up along his left nk. They were too far away to engage, but they did cut off one of his retreat paths and threaten to encircle him. There was also another force of riders hanging back directly behind him. The bushes and uneven ground slowed their mounts, but they would catch up before too long.


    The forest grew thinner and the bushes were swiftly reced by thick trees with dark grey bark. The horsemen would catch up quickly such terrain. However, cknail had no real option but to keep running straight and hope for the best.


    That didnt work out so well. The nking force sped up and pulled ahead as the pursuit caught up. cknail was forced to turn to his right where there was a rocky hill. This was an unwee development. Climbing it would be difficult, especially for Khita, and the riders could just go around it. Not to mention, cknail spotted a mage staff among the pursuing force. If they climbed the cliff, theyd be easy targets.


    As they reached the edge of the hill, cknail and Khita reluctantly came to a stop.


    The redhead through him a nervous look. Whats the n now?


    Now we fight, he replied.


    You know Im always up for a good fight, but were a little outnumbered here, Khita remarked as she stared at the approaching riders. The dirty knights looked quite menacing on their huffing mounts.


    Dont worry. I have a n.


    This earned the hobgoblin an unenthusiastic grunt in response, but he ignored Khita and focused on the enemy. Seeing that their quarry was seemingly trapped, the riders slowed and spread out to encircle them as much as possible, although the hill behind cknail and Khita at least protected their backs.


    It didnt take long for Werrick to appear with Zelena riding beside him. Taking the lead, the bandit lord rode up through his allies and stared at cknail suspiciously.


    The hobgoblin sneered at him. Youre a traitor. You let Sir Masnin die and let the Doom escape just so you could try to get me. Youve betrayed your people and your oath.


    He then turned to re at the other riders. His words had mostly been for them. Some of the knights probably were uncertain about these recent developments.


    Hold your tongue, beast, Werrick told him. Everyone knows your words cant be trusted. I had nothing to do with Sir Masnins noble death, and we will deal with Myagnoir in due time. It is wounded and on the run. You are the more pressing threat to humanity. We know you were nning on killing everyone and seizing the silver for yourself so that you and your ilk can weaken humanity and take over the North.


    No, thats what youre doing, you smelly liar.


    I would never betray humanity to a threat as great as the boggarts or you, and I know I could never stand against the boggarts alone. Your pathetic and self-serving usations dont even make sense.


    cknail snarled. Youre a murderous bandit lord and a coward. Youre only concerned about your own skin, and what you know is that you could never beat me without treachery. Your country and other humans mean nothing to you.


    ncing over the enemies arrayed against him, cknail saw over two dozen horsemen. Counting Zelena, two of the riders were mages. That was horrible odds, especially since he was so tired and almost out of magic.


    Werrick motioned for his troops to charge all at once, but cknail cut him off. At least be brave enough to fight me yourself instead of sending the duped minions after me.


    Sighing, Werrick dismounted. Very well. Weve crossed des before, and this will simply be another humiliation for you.


    Im not the same as before.


    True, but that wont be enough. Ive killed bigger, faster, and smarter mutants than you. My de will put an end to your nder while the gods watch in judgement, Werrick replied nonplussed as he drew his de and stepped toward cknail.

 Bane of Humanity 14

    Bane of Humanity 14


    Werrick approached with his de held out aggressively and its gleaming tip pointed right at cknail. There was silence from all the nearby human warriors as they watched, although some of their mounts neighed and snorted softly.


    Even Khita stepped back out of the way of thebatants, although she didnt stay silent. Kick his ass and cut out his liver! Hed not so tough. You got this!


    Readying himself and ignoring the redhead, cknail raised his own longsword up defensively and grimaced sourly as he eyed his mortal enemy. He didnt like this situation at all. Hed been waiting for a chance at Werrick forever, but this wasnt how hed wanted it to happen. His position was even worse than it had been during theirst fight, which hed lost. The hobgoblin knew he was tired and out of mana, while his enemy was in much better condition. Cheating would also be difficult, since Werrick was the one with backup nearby. Zelena was already watching him like a hawk. This entire situation sucked. Hed put a lot of effort into making sure his next battle with Werrick was nothing like a fair fight, but it had all gone to waste. Somehow, this was Khitas fault.


    You wont be able to escape me now, Werickughed as stepped forward.


    cknail watched him warily. Im not running, pink face. Youre the one that will die here.


    He was totally nning on running the first chance he got. If Khita couldnt keep up, that was too bad for her.


    Werricks deshed out, catching sunlight as it sliced toward cknails shoulder. The hobgoblin quickly side-stepped and countered with a sh of his own, which was dodged just as easily. Testing each other, thebatants exchanged a flurry of light attacks. Neither gave ground nor pressed the attack, but they kept their guards up.


    cknail was more than happy to keep things at a standstill for as long as possible, but after a minute or two, Werrick grew confident and impatient. The bandit lord ducked under a high sh and grinned smugly as he pressed the attack. Stepping forward into cknails personal space, he stabbed at the hobgoblins chest.


    Dodging to the side, cknail countered with a heavy downward blow, but Werrick simply rose to meet the attack and parried it before surging forward, right into the off-bnced hobgoblins face. He was going for a shoulder blow. Eyes wide with surprise, cknail hesitated for a brief moment, but then his instincts kicked in. Rage and mana swirled through his body as he growled and opened his mouth wide to reveal his long teeth. Leaning down, cknail attempted to gore his foes neck.


    Now it was Werricks turn to flinch in surprise, before abandoning his attackpletely and throwing himself to the side. After recovering his bnce and getting back into a proper stance, he threw cknail a dark look.


    I forgot how much of a savage you are, Werrick said before spitting on the ground.


    cknail red at him. Youre the one that tried to cheap-shot me first! What was that?


    Theres a vast difference between my attack and biting like a rabid animal, Werrick replied angrily before approaching again. Youre nothing like a true warrior.


    cknail snorted. He didnt care about being a true warrior at all. Survival was what mattered to him.


    You almost had him. Try it again and tear his throat out! Khita cheered, earning her a lot of res from Werrick and his men. cknail was sure his enemy wasnt going to try to tackle him again, so the redheads advice was characteristically useless.


    There was a loud metallic ng as thebatants des met again. Werrick unleashed a flurry of skillful blows that tore through the air with shocking speed, but cknail managed to counter and keep him back with several powerful shes of his own. The two fighters then stepped back and eyed each other warily. cknail was finding it noticeably easier to match his mortal foe now that he was a mutant. His longer arms and stronger muscles allowed him to use his new longsword to keep Werrick back much easier.


    Whats wrong? Are you getting tired? cknail taunted his opponent.


    Werrick chuckled grimly. Not even a little. In fact, I believe its time for me to stop messing around and end this little charade.


    The Wolfs sword sliced through the air as he brought it around and fell into a more aggressive stance. cknail raised his own guard, but Werricks move was more than it first appeared. A thin wave of force slid off his de and cut through the air as it flew toward cknail. Only the hobgoblins familiarity with the technique allowed him to recognize what was happening in time to dodge the attack. Werrick was using his unique Vessel abilities and channeling them through his sword.


    However, as cknail stepped to the side, Werrickunched himself forward and hacked at him with a wild swing. cknails arms vibrated from the force of the blow after he was forced to block it, but he kept his stance solid and used an internal burst of mana to strengthen himself and push the big human warrior back.


    Frowning, Werrick stepped back and shot another two air des at the hobgoblin, before following right after them. The two magical shes travelled on slightly different trajectories, making dodging them difficult, but cknail managed to twist out of the way of the first and then duck under the edge of the other without losing his solid stance. Thus, he met Werricks attack with a powerful sh of his own that sliced through the air and toward the bandit lords head.


    Werrick tried to parry the blow and use his momentum to barrel over the hobgoblin, but cknail was having none of that. He met the attack head on, blocking Werricks de with his own. Their swords met with a crash that vibrated down both their arms and then the weapons locked together. Both fighters struggled to push the other back. Using some of the mana that was slowly gathering in his core, cknail managed to break the deadlock. His muscles strained as he pushed Werricks weapon away.


    Grunting with effort, Werrick tried to turn his retreat into a sidestep and counter, but the pressure from cknail caused him to stumble instead. Sensing weakness, the hobgoblin felt a surge of excitement burn through his body as he lunged forward. His swordshed out with lightning speed and bashed Werricks weapon aside. Unimpeded, his de then nged as it hit the mans shoulder and was deflected off his chainmail shirt. Werrick let out a pain-filled shout as he fell back. His arm now hung stiffly as if wounded, although it wasnt visibly bleeding.


    Mercilessly, cknail pressed his advantage and leaped after his injured opponent, but he didnt get a chance to attack again. Out of the corner of his eye, he saw Zelena raise a hand and point it in his direction. Hed been keeping an eye on her, and he instantly knew she was up to no good.


    As cknail watched, a small st of nigh-invisible power shot out of the crystal in Zelenas palm. It streaked through the air, forcing the hobgoblin the abandon his attack and jump back to avoid the magical projectile.


    Hey, I saw that! Khita yelled as she pointed at the mage woman. Thats cheating, you bitch! Come over here and try that. Ill cut slice open your throat.


    Everyone ignored her.


    I dont know what foul trick you used to injure me, but this dishonor wont stand! Werrick shouted proudly as he backed away like a coward. He was obviously ying to the crowd.


    Snarling, cknail considered going after him, but he was getting quite a few res from the knights and mages around him. What trick? I hit you with my sword. Thats what you were doing too!


    If you have no honor then this duel is over, Werrick announced before turning to hispanions. Take him down. I injured him before he forfeited the match.


    Shouting their acknowledgement, a dozen knights urged their mounts into motion and began riding toward cknail. The hobgoblin eyed them with deep concern as he backed up. Unfortunately, there was nowhere for him to run now.


    You cheating son of a harpy! Get over here and die. cknail yelled at Werrick as he gave him the evil eye. The bandit lord didnt reply or even turn around. He just kept walking over to Zelenas side as if unconcerned by cknails fate.


    What do we do now? Khita asked as she drew her sword and ran over to the hobgoblin.


    cknail eyed her. Why did she think he had the answers? That was kind of unreasonable. Um


    As the knights closed in, cknails long green ears twitched. He heard rocks tter behind him. While in front of him, the knights suddenly began slowing their mounts down.


    Werrick nced at something behind the hobgoblin and then turned to the male mage in his group. Quickly, st the fiend.


    The mage quickly moved to obey and levelled his staff at his target, cknail, but before he could activate his magic, a glowing blue barrier appeared in front of cknail, shielding him. At the same time, the sound of ttering stones grew louder and cknail nced over his shoulder to see six hobgoblins slide down the hill at his back andnd behind him. Looking up, he saw that there were many more hobgoblins standing atop the hill as well. Far more than hed brought on Sir Masnins expedition. Imp stood in their midst, holding an amulet that was the source of the shield.


    Oh good, youre finally here. I thought you got lost, cknail said before sighing in relief. Theyd really left it to thest second. Either his minions were far toozy, or someone had been plotting. Well, at least they were here now.


    Scamp frowned nervously as he looked down at his chieftain. You werent easy to find, boss. We only got here so quickly because of all the noise you were making.


    cknail was unconvinced and still more than a little suspicious. I signaled you a while ago. You knew I was here, so what took you so long?


    That was when the bushes off to cknails left rustled and another dozen hobgoblins with spears appeared to nk the knights. A momentter, another twenty hobgoblins stepped out of the tree on the other side of Werricks force. They were boxed in now, with no easy retreat routes.


    We waited until we had Werrick surrounded before showing ourselves. You told me to make sure Werrick didnt get away, no matter what, or youd feed my guts to the pigs, remember? Scamp told him.


    Now that he mentioned it, cknail did remember that. Right, and it worked. Good job me. Im very smart.


    cknail had known all along that Werrick would have several schemes in motion and that he would try to seize control of the other humans. Hed had little choice after cknail had forced him toe on this expedition. Control of silver was far too important for the bandit lords to share it, and they hated each other with a passion anyway. If hed been allowed to stay behind, Werrick could have used his forces to ambush the silver and seize control of the city once it was found, but out in the Green, he was at cknails mercy and cut off from most of his troops. Thus, Werrick had no other option but to kill cknail before cknail killed him. The exact method of his betrayal had caught the hobgoblin off guard  hed assumed that Werrick would at least wait until after Myagnoir was dead  but his vulnerability had been temporary.


    Fair fights were not cknails specialty. Long beforeing on Sir Masnins expedition, cknail had secretly ordered a force of fifty of his hobgoblins to shadow the expedition from a safe distance. It was a feat that no human army could possibly hope to match, but his minions were far morefortable in the Green. Thus, cknail had been prepared for any betrayal Werrick had nned and he could make sure the Wolf never left the Green alive. It was such a great n. cknail knew he was amazingly smart for having thought of it, despite the slight problems hed run into before his reinforcements had arrived, like almost dying half a dozen times.


    Scamp hadnt been cknails first choice as leader of the reinforcements, but he was a skilled ranger, and everyone smarter had been busy.


    Most of the enemy force seemed unsure of what to do now that they faced a serious threat that they didnt have massively outnumbered. Their mounts shuffled uneasily as the riders watched the newly arrived hobgoblins with obvious fear and concern. However, Werrick simply looked furious. Stomping forward, he levelled an usatory finger at cknail and red at him venomously.


    I was right. This is proof that the hobgoblin was always trying to ambush us on the way back and take the silver for himself! Werrick shouted. Hes brought an entire army here in secret to make sure none of us survive to reveal his treachery.


    cknail red back at him. Really? Human political nonsense, now? Stop lying. I just knew that you were going to betray me, like you did, so I made ns to be ready to kill you and all your allies first. I didnt want anyone but you dead.


    This argument didnt appear to sway anyone to cknails side. The knights were still pointing their weapons in the hobgoblins direction and had hostile expressions on their faces. Stupid humans. Sure, hed exined that badly, but he still made a lot more sense than Werrick had. Well, whatever. Once they were dead it wouldnt matter. Getting his words through their thick skulls would probably be much harder than getting his de through their soft bits.


    Form up and prepare to fight! Werrick ordered all the nearby riders as he jumped back on his own horse.


    I only want Werrick and his men. Anyone else that surrenders will make it back South alive, cknail shouted.


    Dont listen to the treacherous creature! Hes just trying to get us to turn on each other so that he can ughter us piecemeal. If we fight side-by-side, then we can crush these pitiful savages beneath our valiant steeds hooves!


    None of the humans rode over to throw themselves at cknail and his hobgoblins mercy, so the hobgoblin chieftain didnt see the point in wasting anymore time. He finally had Werrick right where he wanted him! He was outnumbered and stranded out in the Green, where running was impossible.


    Kill them all! cknail ordered his minions as a vicious hunger rose up from within him. He grinned savagely at Werrick as he fantasized about finally hacking his masters killer apart with his own hands. Hed taste Werricks blood and watch with glee as the light faded from his eyes.


    At their mastersmand, the hobgoblins surged forward, closing in on the knights from multiple directions. Only about half a dozen hobs stayed back on top of the hill. Imp and two of his mage assistants were among them, and they seemed to be preparing spells. Scamp also made no move to leave the top of the hill.


    To me! We must escape the savages entrapment, Werrick roared as he guided his mount to the left.


    The bandit lord was attempting to strike where the hobgoblins were thinnest and smash through them to reach safety. cknail couldnt let that happen. Even outnumbered, if the knights got free, they could maneuver around the hobgoblins and trample them one group at a time.


    Charge! Follow me. The first to attack get the first pick of the loot! cknail yelled at his minions before rushing ahead to cut off Werricks retreat. He wasnt letting him get away now.


    Dashing forward at full speed, cknail ran over to where the melee was thickest, around some knights fighting from horseback. Several hobgoblins and Khita followed him. Up ahead, Werrick was cutting down two hobgoblins that had been unfortunate enough to be in his way. Over on the other side of the melee, there was a fiery explosion as the mages began dueling.


    Upon reaching the fighting, cknail wasted no time in throwing himself at Werrick, who was still mounted. Pushing past an unresisting hobgoblin that was d to let him pass, he unleashed a wicked sh at his mortal foes leg.


    Reaching down, Werrick easily deflected cknails attack with his own de. He then wheeled his mount around and the huge beast reared up to kick at cknail. Jumping back away from the horses dangerous looking hooves, cknail weighed his options. Attacking mounted warriors was still super annoying. He really hated horses. They were more evil made flesh than real animals.


    Werrick immediately pressed his advantage and cut down another hobgoblin in the melee, so cknail threw himself back into the fight. He only had so many minions that he could afford to lose. Lacking any real n, he went with his instincts.


    cknailshed out at the horses nk with his de, however the vile beast managed to take most the strength out of the blow by sidestepping, so the sword inflicted only a shallow cut. Looking over, cknail saw that one of the horses eyes was ring right at him. The beast looked enraged and mad in the way of all its deranged kin. That gave cknail an idea. Horses seemed to hate and fear hobgoblins just as much as hobgoblins hated them.


    Sheathing his weapon, cknail ducked under another swing from Werrick and leaped at the ass end of the horse. It tried to move away but he dashed after it. A momentter, he was jumping onto its side, and his ws drew blood, giving him purchase and allowing him to pull himself up higher. The creatures brown nks were impressively tall. Also, very sweaty and smelly.


    Ignoring the stench that was right below his nose, cknail continued to cling to the horse and climb up onto its back. The beast didnt like that one bit, and quickly began bucking and iling around in an attempt to throw him off.


    What are you doing? Get off, you cretin! Werrick yelled as he nced back at cknail.


    The bandit lord tried to take a swing at the hobgoblin, but the bucking of the horse threw his aim off, and cknail managed to climb up and entangle the de in his antler-like horns. Werrick struggled to keep control of his mount and free his sword as his horse neighed frantically, but cknails presence finally broke its control. It went berserk and began iling about withplete abandon in a desperate attempt to dislodge the predator on its back.


    Both Werrick and cknail were thrown off and tumbled into the melee.

 Bane of Humanity 15

    Bane of Humanity 15


    cknail hit the ground hard after being thrown from Werricks horse. A shock went through his bones and he grunted in pain, but a momentter, he managed to roll across the ground and jump back to his feet. He didnt feel like hed been injured badly, although that might be because his entire body was already sore. Shaking his head, the hobgoblin chieftain looked around for Werrick.


    The bandit lord had been thrown about twenty feet away and had also just managed to get to his feet, although hed dropped his sword. It wasying on the ground a few arms lengths away. Seeing an opportunity to take down big game, three nearby hobgoblins snarled and charged at the man that had fallen amongst them. Two of them held spears while the third had a short sword and a primitive wooden shield with red tribal marks on it.


    A raised arm deflected the first spear harmlessly to the side. As the surprised hobgoblin stumbled forward, Werrick reached out and grabbed him. A secondter, that unlucky hobgoblin was sailing through the air right toward the other hobgoblin with a spear. They collided with a loud crack as their skulls met, and then they both fell unconscious to the ground. The sword wielding hobgoblin tried to sh at Werricks exposed back, but Werrick simply dodged back away from the strike and grabbed the hobgoblins arm. Pulling his startled opponent off-bnce, Werrick then punched him in the face so hard that he flipped over backward. The hobgoblinnded in a twisted heap, and didnt get back up. Ouch.


    His attackers defeated, the bandit lord calmly walked over to pick up his sword and then turned to look at cknail, who was headed his way. A knight on horseback tried to ride up and hack at the hobgoblin chieftain, but cknail ducked under the attack and then shed the leg of his mount. The horse screamed shrilly - which pleased cknail greatly  and then tumbled over. Its rider managed to jump free andnd on his knees, but before he could get up, two hobgoblins attacked him. One stabbed him in the side with a spear while the other jumped on him and began hacking at his neck with a long wicked-looking dagger.


    The arrival of his minions had changed more than the odds. The air was thick with fear now as the humans confronted a grinning inhuman foe that outnumbered them and had them surrounded. The dark stifling emotion leaked from the humans and was drawn to cknail by his mutant nature. Feeding on the terror, cknail felt his power replenish itself much faster than before. The magic boosted his strength and the overflow cycled through cknail before being released back out as an aura of dread, driving the humans fear even higher. He felt powerful.


    As cknail kept walking over to Werrick, a dismounted human warrior charged out of the melee and lunged at him with his de held up high. ncing at the man and frowning, cknail drew his de with startling speed and stabbed him in the chest. With a twist of his wrist, he then twisted the weapon around and pulled it out. There was a brief sucking noise as it came free and the human warrior copsed. With his sword now dripping crimson blood, cknail made it the rest of the way to Werrick unimpeded.


    Actively reinforcing himself with mana, so that his pain and weariness faded away beneath seething magic, cknail sneered confidently at his foe. Nothing is going to save you this time. Today, you finally die.


    Werrickughed darky without a hint of fear. It is you that fate has conspired to keep alive. Your life should have ended at end of my de long ago, you treacherous hobgoblin.


    You betrayed me first! Youre more treacherous than me, cknail shot back.


    So, you admit to nning to betray your allies!


    Scowling, cknail shifted topics slightly. I wont be dying until Ive avenged my master and Herah. You took them from me, and Ill make you pay in blood and bone. Ill put you down like a mangy dog, Wolfy.


    Blood and bone?


    Im going to use your skull as a decoration.


    Your grudge is petty and pathetic both. You are nothing but a savage with noprehension of what you do. My victory over Herad was fairly won and just another step along my destiny. The North will be mine; I have imed it by right of steel and blood. You are nothing but a hobgoblin beast howling in the dark. I am a lord with backing of interests beyond your ability to understand.


    It was cknails turn tough. The North is mine. Yours is the old way that has already failed. I am making something young and strong. Your men sicken and die as my hobs grow more numerous. Even now Ive sent raiders to ughter your men wherever they hide. When I leave the Green with the silver, your entire band will be already be dead or have surrendered to me. Your ambitions were doomed the moment you stepped into the Deep Green with me.


    Then I shall simply kill you and your pathetic tribe of savages will turn on each other, Werrick spat angrily. The silver is all I need to rebuild my kingdom. My destiny will not be denied. Before the fall of Courolis, my mothers family were the most powerful nobles in the North, and Im an unmatched warrior. The gods themselves have blessed my conquest. Once I cut you down like just another mutant beast that threatens my domain, I will be the king I was always meant to be and rebuild the North to its past glory.


    Thats not going to happen. Ive built far more than you ever have, with all your talk of blood and destiny. No matter what, the North has changed beyond your ability to control. The old North is long gone, and it will have no human king. The boggarts and I have seen to that.


    You are capable of nothing but ruin and will bring the people of the North nothing but suffering. What they need is a king, and my destiny will not be denied! Werrick snarled as he finally threw himself forward to attack.


    cknail stepped forward to meet him, and their des crashed together with a loud ng that reverberated throughout the melee. Neither of them gave ground, so bothbatants then began hacking and shing at each other viciously.


    Off to the side, cknail saw a fireball m into a glowing shield. It detonated with a bang, raining fire down on several fighters. There were screams as the mes hit both hobs and humans, but cknail was too preupied to see any more. The important thing was that he hadnt been hit, although it would also be nice to know if his mages were winning their fight. Right now, he had no idea. Stupid magic.


    Ducking under a high blow from Werrick, cknail tried to sh the mans shoulder, only to miss as Werrick stepped back. The fighters didnt slow for a second. They both kept up a brutal of flurry of attacks while they attempted to find a weakness and seize the advantage. Their exchanges were so fast and powerful that everyone else fell back to give them room. Any normal soldier intruding upon their duel would have been cut down before they knew what happened.


    Werrick and cknail seemed to be quite evenly matched. During theirst bout, Werrick had held all the advantages, but cknails second transformation had fixed that. Their bodies were now around the same size, if you ignored the hobs horns. Werrick was still the more skilled swordsman, with many more years of practice, but cknails mutant body was superior to that of Werricks. Compared to a human Vessel, cknail had both faster arms and eyes. He could keep up with all of Werricks movements, even the tricky ones.


    Werrick stepped back andunched a flurry of air shes at cknail. They flew out at the hobgoblin without warning, forcing him to spin and duck out of the way. A split secondter, bothbatants lunged at each other and their des met again, sending vibrations down both their arms.


    Both fighters were giving their battle everything they had, but as blow after blow was exchanged, cknail began to grow more confident. Werrick was beginning tog, while cknail felt as if he could keep up this pace all day. Fear reigned across the battlefield, feeding him more and more power. Magic circted through his body as thick as blood now, invigorating him. Meanwhile, Werrick was dependent on Elixir, and cknail didnt n on giving him a single moment to drink any. His assault was relentless. If he kept this a battle of endurance he would win. That was a good feeling. cknail had been waiting for this day for so long. His mortal enemy was in his power atst, and soon he would taste his hearts blood.


    Werrick didnt appear too concerned though. He calmly matched every blow of cknails with one of his own, forcing the hobgoblin to keep absolutely focused on the fight. The man probably had at least one trick left. He hadnt dominated the North and killed Herad by being predictable and easy to defeat.


    Snarling as his memories of loss fed his rage, cknail picked up the pace. His blows became even more savage as he attempted to put his foe on the defensive and crush him. At first, Werrick managed to hold his own with a series of graceful yet powerful counters, but then he was pushed back by a brutal cleave attack that knocked his weapon aside in a shower of sparks.


    cknail attacked again immediately, and Werrick responded by jumping to the side. At the same time, the bandit lord grabbed his own wrist and pulled something loose, a steel bracelet. A secondter, Werrick tossed the bracelet at cknail. On guard for tricks, cknail immediately dodged to the side and scrambled away from the suspicious item.


    It was the right move. As soon as it hit the ground, the bracelet exploded with a boom that sent dust flying in every direction. Shielding his eyes, cknail felt a rock hit him in the chest, cracking a rib and driving the air from his lungs. The st had seemed like a less controlled version of Werricks power. The bracelet must have been designed to use it that way.


    Ignoring the injury, cknail nced back at Werrick. The man hadnt attacked. Instead, he was chugging down a vial of Elixir. He finished a momentter, and after giving the hobgoblin a smug grin, he raised his de and moved to attack again.


    Their des met with a metallic crash. His sore rib only slowed cknail slightly, but Werrick was also in better condition now thanks to his Elixir. cknail dodged a sh and feinted at Werricks left shoulder before being pushed back. It was a tiny edge, but now Werrick seemed to have the advantage. cknail found himself on the defensive as a reinvigorated Werrick hit him with one heavy blow after the other. Desperately, he only managed to block each blow at thest second, and his own attacks stoppedpletely.


    Suddenly, a redheaded blur dashed out of the melee to cknails left and charged at Werricks back. It was Khita and she had her sword raised and ready to strike. cknail could only watch in surprise as she attacked.


    However, Werrick saw hering somehow. Spinning around, he unleashed a heavy horizontal sh at her chest. As ckail jumped forward to help, Khita managed to block Werricks blow, but his strength was too much. It pushed her weapon aside and then his de mmed into her side, slicing through armor and into gut. Gasping in shock and pain, Khitas eyes went wide as she was knocked over and copsed to the ground.


    Werrick then spun back to block cknails savage strike. Their des ground together and locked in ce as they both pushed with everything they had.


    Youll pay for that! cknail hissed. He was furious that Werrick had in another of hispanions, but at least it had been Khita. She wasnt that useful any more, since he had no problem getting other human minions now. Also, she was so annoying that hed thought about leaving her alone in the Green to die many times. cknail still nned to avenge her though. Also, Herah would miss her.


    Ill soon send you to meet all the lost souls you im to care so much about! Werrick growled back as he strained to overpower his attacker.


    At first, they were evenly matched, but then cknail embraced his emotions. Cold power coursed through him, spiraling down as he drew on the terror in the air. ck rage and grief rose to meet it, burning like a terrible inferno. They swirled together as emotions seethed within cknail. He was going to tear Werrick apart! All his losses would be avenged by his own hand, and then when Werrick was dead, hed never lose anyone he cared about again. Even Khita had  sort of - been his friend, he could admit that now that she was dead. Shed been annoying, but loyal in her own way. Not the right way, but a way.


    Muscles straining, cknail hissed like a boiling kettle as his rage steamed out from him. Then, he gathered all his power and prepared to overpower his mortal enemy and finally y him.


    That was when Khita got back up and stabbed Werrick in the back. Dumbfounded, cknail could only watch as her de pierced armor and slid past bone to sink deep into the warlords flesh.


    Eyes wide in surprise, Werrick wobbled on his feet. What? No! Im supposed to be king. My destiny


    cknail blinked as his arms grew ck. What?


    Shut up and die. This is for all of Herads band! Khita said as she kicked the bandit lord over. The redhead then hacked at the mans neck with her sword a few times to make sure he was dead.


    What did you do? cknail asked in disbelief after hed recovered from his stunned surprise.


    Khitaughed arrogantly. Ive killed Werrick, the Wolf of the North, and taken my ce in bandit history! Now Im the strongest human bandit lord of all time.


    Bandit history? Thats not how it works, and he was mine! I was going to kill him. Id waited and nned for years to do it!


    Khita snorted rudely. Please. He was knocking you around like a wooden top and would have cut you down soon. I saved you.


    I was faking it! I was luring him in so I could finish him off!


    Phew, sure you were.


    cknail sputtered angrily. Magic and rage still boiled within him, although it was fading. He really wanted to punch the redhead right in her smug face, but his hard-earned discipline stopped him. How are you even alive? Werrick sliced you open like an apple, but you''re walking around as if youre fine.


    Rolling her eyes, Khita lifted her bloody shirt to reveal her stomach and ribs. Her pale skin was sttered with blood, but her wound was covered in what looked like ck scales. cknail recognized them instantly. The same growths had appeared over Herads wounds, protecting them and allowing them to heal much faster. It had been her Vessel power.


    When did you learn to do that?


    Khita shrugged. Quite a while back. Im using Herads Elixir recipe after all. It just never came up, and its not something I can just show off on demand anyway. Still, its a super handy magic power to have, since I tend get stabbed a lottely. Werrick sure didnt see iting.


    Why couldnt you really be dead, cknail quietly muttered to himself as he eyed the redhead darkly. This was just what he needed. Now Khita was even more difficult to kill. Ugh, the world wasnt fair.


    Looking around, Khita scanned the melee. You should probably do something about the rest of this battle, so I can get on to spreading the legend of the Red Cat.


    The Red Cat?


    Its my bandit name.


    Thats a terrible bandit name, cknail told her.


    Its better than cknail.


    cknail is my actual name! I didnt pick it.


    Whatever. We should probably focus on the battle.


    Annoyed at her obvious deflection, cknail nheless saw her point. He did still have a battle to win and some knights to mop up. Theyd betrayed him and Sir Masnin, so technically they were targets of his vengeance as well. cknail tried to get worked up about that, but he couldnt really manage it. Faced with Khitas stupidity, his rage had drained away. Werricks death at Khitas hands was just too depressing. He couldnt believe that had happened. Hed been looking forward to doing it himself since forever.


    If youre so tough, why dont you end the battle? cknail told Khita. Go add to the legend of the Red Cat while I stay here and watch.


    She red at him. I just took a sword to the stomach. I may not be dying thanks to my amazing magic, but Im not at my best either.


    Sighing, cknail studied the fighting around him. The stench of fear was even stronger now. It seemed like more than a few humans had noticed Werricks fall and word had spread through the bandit lords forces that their leader was dead. Many of them had already been cut down, although the fight was still ongoing. It looked like a few knights had fled off into the trees, but cknail knew they wouldnt get far.


    Feeling tired after the depressing end to his long-awaited duel with his mortal enemy, cknail simply wanted to get the rest of this battle over with. There were still things he had to do today, like deal with Myagnoir. Sigh. Was Zelena still around here somewhere? Leaving her alive would be a mistake.


    After clearing his throat, cknail let out a stifling wave of magical fear and began yelling. Alright, listen all you stupid humans. Werrick is dead! Surrender and Ill let you live. Keep fighting and Ill rip your limbs off and feed them to you.


    Ya, and Im the one that killed Werrick. Khita, the Red Cat! Khita added proudly. Fear me too!


    cknail gave her a look. He was so going to leave her behind when he went back south.

 Bane of Humanity 16

    Bane of Humanity 16


    Even after Werricks defeat, ending the fight and taking control of the chaos took more than a few minutes. cknail ended up stomping around and screaming for over twenty minutes before thest of the fighting stopped. He also ended up killing another knight that tried rallying a resistance, back handing a berserk hobgoblin into submission, and stabbing two horses that wouldnt shut up. If he hadnt been in such a bad mood, thest part would almost have been fun.


    Most of Werricks treacherous force was dead by then, along with quite a few hobgoblins, but many humans did drop their weapons and surrender. cknail had their weapons and armor confiscated before putting them under heavy guard. He was told that some of them were nobles that were worth quite a bit in ransom, so he didnt want to kill them all. Also, appearing merciful and honorable would only help him. He still had to deal with the southern humans and their kingdom. Thus, it was important to make sure they knew he hadnt betrayed them. It was Werrick who had done that.


    As he was looking over the prisoners, Herah appeared and began approaching him. Hed caught glimpses of her after the fight, but hed been too busy to give her any thought. The other hobs hed left behind and her must have been drawn to all the noise and joined in the fightte.


    Congrattions on your victory over the Wolf, boss. I knew you could do it! Herah announced she walked over to him.


    cknail sighed and used one of his arms to keep her away when she tried to hug him. The female hob tried giving him a seductive and yful look as she tried to slip past his guard, but cknail wasnt in the mood. There would be plenty of time for hugging and sexter.


    Actually, Khita killed Werrick, he exined as he dodged her lunge.


    Frowning, Herah picked herself off the ground. But she works for you, so its the same thing.


    I doubt that, cknail mumbled sourly. Khita was too scatter brained to truly work for anyone. She simply followed whatever dumb impulses popped into her pink human head.


    Well, hes dead now, and you avenged your Saeter. You used to mumble about that all the time while we mated. So, let me cheer you up. All this blood in the air is so thrilling. It would be shame to waste the moment, Herah said as she eyed him knowingly. There was a hungry gleam in her eyes.


    cknail just sighed again. No, I got a lot to do still. Maybeter.


    Turning away, he nced toward the direction in which the ruins of Coroulisy. Despite having finally killed his mortal foe, there was an almost overwhelming amount of work still to do. Hed sort of assumed that Werricks death would automatically make things easier, but it really hadnt.


    Myagnoir still lived, and there was the matter of Ilisti. ail hoped he was still alive. He needed to track the vympir down and find the silver. Even when that was over with, and Myagnoir wouldnt be easy to deal with, there was still the slight problems of the boggart hordes spilling forth from the dark paths and the ever-spreading ghoul pestilence. Ugh, it was enough to make cknail want to climb a tree and take a nap until everyone left him alone. Why couldnt his minions be morepetent and deal with these things themselves without bothering him? They were really cking.


    Leaving the prisoners behind with their guards, cknail led the rest of his force back to the city. His first priority was finding out what had happened to Ilisti. Thankfully, that didnt turn out to be very hard. After marching through the city gates and back into the ruins, one of Ilistis men found them and brought the vympir over. It seemed like six of Ilistis personal troops had survived the fight and reunited with their lord.


    What has happened? Ilisti asked as he stepped out from shadows cast by the ruins of a home. You seem to have emerged victorious, but is our foe, the Wolf, truly dead? That ck-hearted traitor deserves far worse than a swift ending.


    The vympir seemed to have recovered somewhat. He wasnt limping anymore, although his armor was still dented.


    Ya, hes dead, but we still have problems, cknail told him.


    Ilisti nodded and then looked over at some distant ruins. Myagnoir. I can sense that the beast still lives. His presence is like a chill wind upon my skin, and a blot upon thend itself.


    Can you still fight? My minions are gathering up all the fire weapons the mages made and then Im going to hunt it down before it can heal.


    You n seems sound, and nothing would keep me from this battle. So, let us fulfill our quest together. First though, my own condition would be greatly improved by some sustenance. Do you have any dying prisoners?


    Im sure there are some humansying around somewhere, ckanil replied. Ill have my scouts look.


    The vympir nodded and then followed a pair of hob scouts back out into the forest. cknail had given them instructions to find a dyingmoner that was away from the prisoners. He didnt want them panicking when the vympir started feeding.


    That done, cknail got back to work. Scouts had to be sent out and gear had to be gathered up from where it had been dropped. Myagnoir was wounded, but cknail still wanted every firence and mage trick he could get his hands on before confronting the beast. Having as many amulets as possible was even more important. If Myagnoir started using his huge cold attacks again, only those with amulets would be able to stay in the fight.


    It didnt take long for some of the scouts to return. Theyd found Myagnoirsir. The great beast had retreated into the ruins of a keep.


    After following his minions over to the site, cknail stared down at it from atop the remains of a tall stone building down the street. The keep was massive construction made up of huge stone blocks, but it was in a state of quite some disrepair. Rubble littered the ground around it, all its towers had fallen, and there was a huge gaping hole in its side. That hole was obviously how Myagnoir entered and left the building.


    What do we do now, boss? Herah asked from beside him.


    Now, we watch and wait for Ilisti to get back, and then we make a n, he replied.


    Thankfully, Ilisti soon showed up with a new spring in his step. Apparently, a stiff drink of altered human blood had really energized him. As he reached cknails side, they immediately began nning and plotting. Then, when they had decided on a course of action, they sprang into action.


    The force split into three. The first group was thergest and contained all the Ilisti, Khita, and most the troops. The second was made of up the hobgoblin mages and their guards, while the third was the smallest andprised of cknail and a few of his tougher hobgoblins. On the street, Ilistis group took up position between the mages and the hole in the keep wall. Meanwhile, cknails group circled around to the side.


    As cknail hid behind some rubble in an alley next to the road, the battle began with a dramatic ir. The hobgoblin mages opened fire, sending four hissing fireballs up into the air. The burning magic arced down at the keep a momentter and then hit the ruins with a series of loud bangs. Crackling mes washed over the stones and one even flew into the hole in the keeps wall before exploding.


    The response to the attack was immediate and powerful. A furious roar echoed out from the keep, shaking the very stones before hitting the attackers. cknail winced as the painful sound pierced his ears and reverberated through his head. Ugh, Myagnoir was loud!


    A secondter, a st of air ripped out of the keep, extinguishing the mes from the hobgoblins attack. The wicked gale then raced down the street and hit Ilistis force. They shivered and stumbled back under its force, but it onlysted for moment before ending.


    However, that was when Myagnoir emerged halfway out of the keep and looked around. The beast had no choice but toe out and face its attackers, since the keep wouldnt shield it from repeated waves of fireballs. The fiery sts would copse the old stone structure eventually. The huge mutant drake red spitefully at the forces before it. It then let out another roar of challenge before steppingpletely out of the keep and out onto the road.


    Immediately, Imp and the hobgoblin magesunched another volley of fireballs at the beast. The fiery projectiles zoomed toward the drake with lethal intent, but then Myangoir replied by exhaling deeply toward the iing missiles. The breath contained a wave of magical power. It rippled out from the drake and mmed into the fireballs. They were snuffed out by the freezing air and their remains were sted off into the distance.


    Seemingly unconcerned, the hobgoblin mages simply threw another four fireballs at Myagnoir. They had a lot of mana stones, and were under orders not to hold anything back. Their target reacted as before, unleashing another great breath of freezing air at the iing attacks which dispelled them. However, Imp wasnt done. As Myagnoir exhaled, he raised a staff taken from a fallen human mage and shot a beam of intense burning heat straight toward Myagnoir.


    The attack caught Myagnoir off guard, and mmed into its shoulder, ckening scales and causing the beast to roar in pain before it could respond. A momentter, Myagnoir jumped away from the beam and then summoned a swirling shield of freezing air that surrounded its body, but it had clearly been wounded again. The burn on its shoulder looked serious.


    Of course, this wound only seemed to enrage Myagnoir further. Roaring in defiance, the great beast charged toward Ilistis force with obvious violent intent. Imp sent another beam of heat at Myagnoir, but the mutants magic shield shredded it.


    Surrounded by spinning gusts of icy wind, Myagnoir mmed into the force that was standing between him and the mages. For a few seconds, the hobgoblins tried to repulse him, but then they quickly began to break. Huge ws threw them aside as chilling winds tore into them. Most of them didnt have amulets to protect them from the cold, and those without quickly turned and fled before the killing cold. Thankfully, Myagnoir wasnt projecting his cold very far from his body any more. He seemed to not have as much energy as before.


    Not everyone fled before the great drake though, Ilisti and Khita held their ground, while a few hobs with amulets rallied round them. Dodging the drake''s bites and shes, they struck back with their own weapons. Ilisti sidestepped a w and then stabbed it with the firence he was holding. Khita also had a firence, and she had no problem dodging, but her attempts to counter with the firence were clumsy and missed. Clearly, she had no idea how to use the weapon. One hobgoblin wasnt so lucky though. Striking with startling speed, Myagnoir''s head shot forth and its jaws closed down on him. A secondter, the hobgoblin vanished down the drakes gullet.


    That didnt stop Ilisti from dashing forward and stabbing Myagnoir in the ribs. Enraged, Myagnoir attempted to barrel right through its attackers and crush them beneath its weight. Growling furiously, it let out a pulse of frost that stunned the nearby hobgoblins and human. Then, its ws and tailshed out violently as it charged through their center.


    One hob was thrown aside by the strike of a w, and everyone else was forced to flee from the creatures powerful and furious advance. Some stumbled back while trying to defend themselves, while others simply turned and ran. Roaring in triumph, Myagnoir then broke through and advanced toward the mages that had hurt it.


    However, this was all part of cknails n. As the mutant drake surged past the scattered remains of Ilistis troops, Imp hit it with another heat beam. The magic attack mmed into the drakes wind shield, doing no damage, but weakening the power of the shield. The swirling wind died down as the heat beam assaulting it faded, allowing Ilisti and Khita to throw themselves back into the fight. They both came in from the front and shed at Myagnoirs limbs, forcing the huge drake to end its charge. Hurt and upied by the enemy in front of it, Myagnoir didnt notice cknail.


    The hobgoblin chieftain had been hiding at the edge of the road in some ruins, until Myagnoirs charge had brought it right past his position. Now that Myagnoir was stuck in ce and busy fighting Ilisti and Khita right in front of him, cknail sprang into action. With firence in hand, he quickly scrambled up the side of a crumbling building. After pulling himself up onto what remained of the structures roof, he nced at his foe again. He was about head height with the drake now, and Myagnoir appeared to still bepletely unaware of his presence.


    In fact, as cknail watched, Ilisiti charged in to strike at the beasts nk and Myagnoir responded. The great drake stepped sideways -toward cknails location- and then leaned down to bite at the vympir. Thankfully, Ilisti managed to dodge.


    This was too good of an opportunity for cknail to ignore. A crazy idea popped into his head. He knew it was a little risky, but he was feeling bold. Werrick was already dead, and he had died in a very unsatisfying way. Now was his chance to do something amazing. It wasnt like he had a lot of long term ns any more.


    Grinning, cknail drew on the magic in his core and threw himself off the top of the building, straight at the top of Myagnoirs head. Wind rushed past the hobgoblins body as he flew toward the beasts grey scales, and hungry excitement coursed through his body alongside his blood. He raised his firence up above his head.


    Then, cknails feet made contact with the top of Myagnoirs head. Thending sent a shock up through his legs, but cknail still managed to keep himself steady and stab down at Myagnoirs skull with his firence. As he drew on magic to put as much strength as possible into the blow, he activated the weapon itself. The length of thence immediately began shimmering hazily as intense heat radiated out from it. That heat pushed back against the chill around Myagnoir, causing the air to hiss and swirl.


    Myangoir couldnt miss the sensation of cknailnding on top of its head, and it instantly sensed danger and tried to shake the unseen creature off. However, it wasnt nearly fast enough. Before it could do more than shiver, cknail struck. His firence hit scales and then burned through them as the hobgoblins enhanced strength and momentum drove thence deep. The weapon struck bone and vibrated from the impact, but then the magic weapon cracked its way through and sank into Myangoirs brain, unleashing a wave of withering heat.


    The great drake screamed again, although this time the noise was nothing like anything it had made before. The air seemed to vibrate in resonance with the beasts primal pain. The sound tore into cknail, and would have hurt him more, but he had already been thrown off Myagnoir by the beasts spasms of pain. cknail twisted around in mid-air in an attempt tond on his feet. As he neared the stone covered ground, he managed to get them underneath him, but didnt quite seed in catching himself. Falling sideways, he threw himself into a roll that sent him away from his foe.


    Meanwhile, Myagnoir was still screaming in pain and iling around. The beasts bulk mmed into the building cknail had been standing on a minute ago, demolishing it and sending up a huge cloud of dust. Its tail then smashed into another building, destroying it as well. The drake certainly seemed unsteady on its feet.


    As cknail got to his feet, he watched Myagnoir pull itself and step out of the dust cloud. The massive mutant drake then turned to look squarely at the hobgoblin that had stabbed it. Its eyes betrayed more than a little pain and confusion, but they absolutely radiated hatred that was aimed right at cknail. Hissing furiously, the drake then lurched toward him. The ground shook beneath its heavy footsteps and it jaws opened wide, revealing wicked looking teeth of immense size.


    The drakes charge was startlingly fast, considering its wounds, and as it moved, it unleashed a massive surge of power. A st of cold air erupted from Myagnoir, sending loose stone flying and hitting cknail like a furious blizzard.


    As the freezing power washed over him, all the hobgoblin could do was stumble back and stare at his approaching death. The cold seemed to sap all his strength, despite his amulet. He was paralyzed and stuck in ce as the drake loomed over him and prepared to strike.


    Myagnoir then took another step toward him, before copsing. There was a loud boom as its huge body hit the ground, and the hobgoblin was treated to a wonderful view of his firence still sticking out of Myagnoirs skull. The beast''s now closed jaws were only a few feet away.


    Oh, good, cknail managed to squeak out as he stared at the body of his fallen foe. I think I won.

 Bane of Humanity 17

    Bane of Humanity 17


    After staring at Myagnoirs unmoving head for several long moments, cknail eventually worked up the courage to go over and examine it. The beast didnt appear to be breathing, so he poked it in the eye with his sword. The massive mutant drake didnt lurch back to life and devour him in one bite. In fact, it didnt move at all. The beast seemed very dead.


    I killed Myagnoir! cknail announced to the world as he turned to grin at his allies. Hed done it! Hed in the toughest monster in the North and somehow survived!


    Ilisti just nodded and looked tired, before dropping hisnce. However, Khita grinned back at him. We all worked together. I was fighting the entire time.


    cknail frowned at her. I got the finishing blow in though.


    It was still a team effort.


    Thats not what you said after you stabbed Werrick in the back. You went around bragging about how you killed him. You didnt mention me or teamwork.


    So? What are you getting at? the redhead asked as she scowled suspiciously at the hobgoblin.


    cknail smiled smugly. Myagnoir was a lot tougher than Werrick. The drake was also way more famous and feared. It had like six names! I wonder if Im the Doom now. Thats how it works, right? Thats a great bandit name. You can be called the Wolf Killing Cat or whatever, if you want.


    This led to increasingly loud argument with Khita, but eventually Ilisti reminded the hobgoblin that there were still things to do. Thus, cknail squashed the unusual exuberance he felt after his unexpected triumph and went to yell orders at his scattered minions. Most of thezy fools wereying around on the ground. They could moan and groanter.


    Soon, cknail managed to gather up his dispersed minions and reform them into something like and organized group again. Quite a few of them were injured, which was annoying since it reduced his manpower, but theyd brought medicine and healers along so must of them would probably live. Hobgoblins were tough, and also easily reced.


    With Maygnoir dead at cknails hands, Coroulis was probably empty of any more threats. Drakes were quite territorial. Thus, cknail felt secure in sending his minions out to search the ruins of the city. They needed to find the silver after all, and he didnt want to stay here longer than necessary. It was important to get the silver back to the humannds quickly so that they could fight the gue and the boggarts. If they didnt do it, then he would have to, and he really wasnt looking for more work to do.


    Thankfully, it only took two hours for some lucky scouts to stumble upon a horde of silver. cknail spent that timeughing at Khita and proudly posing next to Myagnoirs dead body.


    It turned out that the keep Myagnoir had made itsir in contained arge stockpile of silver bars from the old mines outside Coroulis. The drake must have chosen the keep as itsir for that reason. Apparently, even drakes loved collecting shiny stuff. Hmm, maybe cknail would keep some of the shiniest bits of silver for himself. He was sure he could find somewhere to stash them.


    There was enough silver in the keep to make transporting it all at once impossible, and there was undoubtedly much more stashed around the city. Coroulis had been famous for its iron and silver mines after all. Getting the silver south would be the hard part, but even that was manageable. The human nobles were already throwing resources at the problem. Roads could be rebuilt and barges could carry silver downstream.


    Even if they did somehow run out of loose silver, the mines were still there. It should be easy enough for cknail to re-open them, although that would require a more permanent presence. Hmmm, that wouldnt be a terrible idea. Having conquered Coroulis by defeating its old ruler in a legendary battle to the death, cknail didnt really n on giving the city up. Coroulis was his now. Yes, it was going to take a while for them to gather up all the silver and transport it south, and the city was far too important to leave unguarded, so hed need to leave arge force here anyway. Otherwise, some stupid human noble might try and seize it.


    Hmm, it wasnt like he was going to be short on minions any time soon. Most of his local enemies were dead, and more and more goblins and hobgoblins kept appearing to take his food. Coroulis was as good a ce for them to live as any now that Myagnoir was dead. The ce had a lot of space and materialsying around. It had also been Saeters old home, so hed probably have liked it to be rebuilt. Maybe hed rename the ce Saeterville or Saeterhome.


    Regardless of his long-term ns, the next thing cknail had to do was lead his minions back south with as much silver as they could carry. All the dead humans and left behind a quite a few horses, and the hobs had brought some boars to carry their own supplies, so they should able to move a fair amount of silver in the first trip.


    As cknail was getting the silver loaded up and everyone ready to move, Khita walked up beside him. I wonder if Gob has sent Werricks remaining men fleeing for their lives yet. I want a chance to go at them and see them flee before me, but well probably be toote. All of the Wolfs camps and towns will probably fall before we get back. Without Werrick, I doubt they have much steel in their spines.


    Sure, cknail replied vaguely. It was usually best not to think too much about what Khita said.


    I suppose that means weve conquered the North. No one will dare fight us now. Youve got your hobgoblin armies and Im an invincible swordswoman.


    What? cknail gave her an incredulous look. That was a very ridiculous thing to say, even or her. Hed conquered the North, not her. Also, she was an average swordsman at best.


    So, what are we going to do next? Khita asked. I know you. Youve always got a scheme!


    I would be curious to hear of this as well, Ilisti announced as he walked over to join them. You are now both my neighbor and the most powerful lord in all the nearbynds. Youve aplished this with no small amount of cunning and daring, so what is it you now seek?


    cknail shrugged. It was true. Soon, all the north would be his. He wasnt quite sure what he was going to do with it, but whatever. Hed put too much effort into conquering it and killed far too many people to worry about that now. Once Im done getting rid of all the bandits that refuse to swear to me, Im going to take a really long nap in my mansion.


    Boring, Khita replied as she stuck out her tongue.


    That seems unwise. What of the boggarts? They remain a threat, even in the northernnds that you im, the vympir pointed out.


    cknail stifled a groan. This was by far his least favorite part of leadership, the responsibility. He hated that. Come to think of it, hed never really nned to conquer the North because he actually wanted to run it. Hed simply fought to prevent Werrick from taking it over. Also, it was just sort of there. Someone had to control it, and why shouldnt all the North be his territory? He was the best leader and fighter in or out of the Green after all. Couldnt he just delegate everything and rx in his mansion all the time? Thats how leadership was supposed to work.


    Ill send hunters out to kill the boggarts in mynds and destroy any nest I find, but I dont think theyll be too eager to fight me. Its humans they hate, and Ive bloodied them every time weve met, the hobgoblin exined.


    And what about the South? If the boggarts do consume thosends, they will inevitably move north.


    I n on letting the humans fight the boggarts as much as possible. They should be grateful for all the effort Ive put into getting them silver, cknail said before grunting sourly. Not to mention, fighting Myagnoir for them.


    Ilisti frowned. I dont think most nobles have such gratitude in them. The position breeds a certain selfishness.


    Damned blue bloods, Khita cursed.


    Theyll smile and be grateful if they know whats good for them. Otherwise, they wont be getting any silver, cknail remarked coldly. Besides, its not like I wont have lots to do here in the North. I need to deal with all the refugees and keep my hobs out of trouble, which will mean making sure they have food and shelter. I also need to watch Coroulis and guard the silver here, and that means I need to keep repairing all the roads since Im moving so many troops and supplies around. I also need to deal with all the territory Gob will have taken over and the humans who live there.


    Ilisti nodded. I see. You do have a point. Perhaps it is best not to overextend. Its is good that you are taking your duties to your vassals seriously. I had been afraid youd let things devolve into chaos, when a true lord needs a firm hand. Personally, I dont n on straying from my own city of Herscrest for some time after I return. I too have many responsibilities there.


    The vympir then excused himself and went to take care of his remaining men. cknail watched him leave with a frown. Ugh, there was that word again, responsibility. Hed had way too much of that when hed just been in charge of one hobgoblin city, now he was supposed to look after all of the North. Hmm, if he ran off into the forest and headed north toward the Iron Teeth it was unlikely that anyone would be able to catch him and drag him back. He could find some goblins living on the other side of the mountains and train them to be his perfect servants. Then, hed have no responsibilities whatsoever. It was tempting, but hed run out of cheese pretty quickly though


    There was also a little voice in his head that kept reminding him that vengeance wasnt what Saeter would have really wanted from cknail. Herad would be quite happy about that, but not Saeter. The old ranger had wanted a united and prosperous North, and now cknail had united the North.


    Rat piss, cknail swore. He couldnt just destroy his old masters dream. Without him around, the North would swiftly fall apart and be worse than ever. It needed an amazing and super intelligent leader like him. The burden of being so incredible at everything was heavy indeed.


    There was cough from Khita, reminding cknail that she was still standing beside him. Ive been thinking. If youre not going to do anything exciting for a while, then maybe I should go south and help fight the boggarts. I have my own men, and Im sure some of your hobs would go with me. The kingdoms would probably pay us quite well. And it would be a great way to spread the legend of the Red Cat!


    cknail eyed her. Was it possible she might finally leave him alone? You should probably do that then. Ill let you have as many hobs as you want.


    No matter what happened, Khitas n seemed like a win for him, especially if she never came back. Although maybe he should send someonepetent with her, so that she didnt get into too much trouble. Ralphi had used to be soldier, so he was probably a good pick.


    Thanks. With a force of hobgoblins behind me, Ill be queen of the world in no time!


    cknail rolled his eyes but decided against making anyment about that. There was no point. More likely shed trip over her own feet, break her neck, and end up dead in ditch somewhere.


    Why dont you go check on the prisoners. Im putting you in charge of them.


    Good idea! Khita replied before hurrying away.


    cknail smirked after her. Hed known she couldnt resist the opportunity to brag and lord over some humans who couldnt escape.


    Soon, the remains of Sir Masnins expedition and the secret force of hobs that cknail had brought had loaded up on silver and were ready to move. They headed out through the crumbling gates of Coroulis walls and back out into the Green. The forest loomed around them, thick and full of the sounds of life.


    cknail led the way. He wanted to set an example, and the front was the best ce for the leader. Behind him came a mob of hobgoblins. Led by Herah and Scamp, they were escorting severalrge bristleback boars that had been loaded with gear and silver. The pigs snorted loudly as they lumbered forward, but generally acted much better behaved than cknail remembered them being. The training must have worked. He hadnt seen them maul a single person yet.


    Imp and his disciples were among the hobgoblins. The mage was toying with one of the fire staffs theyd looted from the human mages. He hadnt stopped messing with the weapon since hed gotten his hand on it. Apparently, he was learning a lot and couldnt wait to try to replicate the magical weapons. Hed also assured cknail that the staff was unlikely to explode, although cknail wasnt quite so certain of that. That was the other reason he was all the way up at the front.


    The human prisoners came next, with Khita swaggering alongside them, a smug grin on her face. Only the most injured of the prisoners were riding. The rest of them were forced to walk as their horses had been used to carry cargo. There were also quite a few horses taken from in knights. Holding up the back was Ilisti and his men. The vympir seemed to prefer that position.


    ncing back, cknail saw that almost no one behind him seemed happy to enter the forest and began hiking. Sour looks decorated many faces. many of them were exhausted after the fighting and there was no shortage of wounded. Nheless, they had a long journey ahead of them before they reached civilization, and they were going to have to push their pace if they wanted their cargo to make a difference in the fight against the gue. At least, they were unlikely to run into any hostile mutants on the way back, since it seemed like theyd already stumbled into all of them on the way here.


    A flicker a movement off in some trees to the side caught cknails eye. Upon ncing at the source of the movement, cknail was reminded that there was one mutant still around, even if it was only mildly hostile. It was the goat.


    Sighing in resignation, cknail produced a piece of cheese and held it out. Seeing this, the goat ambled out of the bushes and walked over to the hobgoblins side. It eyed him skeptically for a moment and then snatched the cheese from his hand. Chewing on the snack, it matched cknails pace and walked beside him.


    Briefly, cknail considered trying to kill the beast now that it seemed to have finally dropped its guard, but quickly discarded that idea. The goat was probably trying to trick him, and it had its uses anyway. It had  identally  saved him from Werrick after all. During that escape, the hobgoblin had managed to ride the beast for a short while, which meant he could probably tame it. It would make a great mount for someone as famous and amazing as him. He was the ruler of the North now, so couldnt walk everywhere, not with all those fancy humans riding around and looking down on him. Also, there was no doubt that a mutant goat would be a much more regal and inspiring mount than a mere smelly horse. Ha, all the fancy noble humans would be insanely jealous of his goat.


    Yes, cknail would just keep feeding the beast cheese as they made their way back south. Before too long it would grow used to him and he could try jumping on its back again. Having a mount would definitely help him fight other mounted foes, such as Werrick


    Hmm, it was hard to remember that Werrick was actually dead. The man had been cknails obsession for a longtime now. He was used to hating the man with an intense burning passion and plotting his terrible vengeance. Now how was he going to spend his spare time?


    Regardless of all his victories and ambitions, Werrick had managed to get himself killed by some crazy street rat that should have died a long time ago. ail couldnt imagine anything more embarrassing than dying by Khitas hands. It served him right, although it also should have been far more painful.


    Well, taking Werricks skull as a decoration would certainly help him remember that he was dead. Right now, the mans bloody head was wrapped up in sack, but where should he keep the skull when he got back? It would be a waste to simply stick it on a stake. He should put it in his throne room! He didnt have a throne yet, but with Werrick dead, he was basically the king of the North, so he certainly deserved a throne. How did you make one though? Did he need to kidnap a certain kind of human?


    Bleh, he was already running into problems. Being king seemed like it was going to be a lot of work and very annoying. At least he could still have fun messing with all his minions and the humans. It would be amusing to make them do silly stuff for him in exchange for silver and gold rocks, and it had been a while since hedst worked on perfecting his human trap

 Epilogue: A New Age

    Epilogue: A New Age


    With a wave of one hand, Geralhd dismissed the towns mayor, while he took a sip of wine from a crystal chalice in his other hand. The wine wasnt bad considering its origins, but the mayor was annoyingly submissive and there was little point in talking to him. The town had already surrenderedpletely after all. Really, Geralhd could do whatever he wanted. He was already sitting in the lounge of arge house that had used to belong to the mayor, but the man hadnt evenined when hed seized it. Hed simply handed over the keys.


    He supposed that was a normal reaction to a conqueror with an army of hobgoblins at his back, but thepleteck of spine in the mayor still bothered Geralhd. He was supposed to have a duty to the townsfolk he represented, which meant putting up at least a little resistance. Well, the man had probably been mayor in name only. Until Geralhds arrival, this town had long been upied by Werricks forces. It had served as one of his most important bases, so the leader of Werricks force here had probably been the one calling all the shots. He was dead now and his head decorated a spike outside the towns gates. Thus, it was currently Geralhds turn to control this town and the fate of the several thousand people that lived within it.


    Of course, he hadnt been in charge of the attack itself. Gob had done that, but it was Geralhds job to manage the surrender of the town and to negotiate with other humans. cknail had left them with orders to conquer Werricks territory while he was away, not to ughter everyone and then burn the ce to the ground, and that was Geralhds preference anyway. Looting was fine in the short term, but eventually the spoils dried up and a good cup of wine became extremely hard to find.


    Geralhd sighed as his thoughts turned to the future. There was very little of Werricks once vast empire left. After hed vanished into the Green with the pdin, his troops had been left without their supreme leader and rallying figure. Theyd been dug in and ready to fight, but ultimately unprepared for the horde of hobgoblins that immediatelyunched a full out war on them.


    Hobgoblins had spilled out of the Green to seize supply shipments and take out every group of bandits that had sworn fealty to the Wolf. Squads of hobgoblin hunters had stalked and in every enemy they could get their hands on, cutting offmunication and isting all of Werricks forces. Without their leader to inspire them and lead a counterattack, they were forced to cower behind their walls.


    That was when Gob had brought down the hammer, in the form of cknails main army. One-by-one hed swarmed over every isted town and fort, killing every bandit that served Werrick. War boars had smashed through wooden gates and trampled the terrified defenders while mobs of hobgoblins swooped in for the kill. Magic had been brought to bear against magic.


    Werricks men had a few highly fortified bases left, including an actual castle, but they were surrounded and cut off. Starvation would eventually bring them down.


    Thus, Geralhd spent his time here in this town, which sat in center of what had once been Werricks territory. Most of what he dealt with now was problems caused by hobgoblins. Just yesterday, some hobgoblins had somehow gotten the idea in their heads to start racing pigs through the city streets. Several homes had gottenpletely gutted before Geralhd put a stop to it. Not to mention, several hobgoblins had a weird and dangerous obsession with burning things. He had to watch them like a hawk


    Suddenly, there was bang from out of sight as the houses front door was thrown open. Geralhd nced toward the hallway just as a hobgoblin messenger stepped into sight. Those hobs havent started stealing peoples hair again, have they? They cant just go around grabbing and shaving townsfolk. They almost started a riotst time. Theyre lucky no one was seriously hurt!


    Er, no. Theres word from the chief! Hes back and hes delivering the silver to the southern humans.


    Smiling now, Geralhd rose to his feet. Good news atst! What of Werrick and the others?


    The n worked. Wolf face is dead.


    And the others?


    Khita is still alive and bothering everyone, but it seems the fancy leader knight guy died.


    A shame, Geralhd replied with a sigh. Sir Masnin had seemed like an honorable man, which was an oddity in these times.


    The hobgoblin nodded in agreement. Ya, shes really annoying.


    Taking another sip of wine, Geralhd felt a heavy burden vanish from off his shoulders. Underneath his calm, but somewhat drunk exterior, hed been worried about cknail. However, it seemed like things were actually going ording to n for once. Myagnoir must have actually left the ruins of Coroulis, leaving the silver up for grabs.


    Regardless, the North was now almostpletely under cknails control. Even Daggerpoint was still obeying the orders of cknails representative, although Geralhd knew that was mostly an illusion. That temptress Luphera was undoubtedly leading the representative around by his nose.


    Word of Werricks death would spread quickly, destroying the moral of his remaining troops. Yes, Geralhd would bet that theyd begin deserting and surrendering soon. That was good, because everyone could little afford any distractions in this dark time. There were other, bigger threats.


    Despite his exile, Geralhd still had contacts amongst the southern merchants, and hed been paying close attention to the struggle against the gue and the boggarts in the south. It had been going quite badly, to say the least, and several cities had beenpletely lost. Thinking about it, Geralhd grimaced in distaste and more than a little horror. The army had been forced to burn those cities down to the ground, dooming any remining citizens within to the merciless mes.


    The silver from Coroulis would be a wee boon to humanity''s struggle to survive on this continent, a gift from the gods, really. With the serum they could make from it, the army would be able to protect themselves from the gue. Thus, they could redeploy to seize control of the cities and purge them of boggarts and ghouls. Without protection from the gue, the army had been forced to keep their distance from ghoul infested urban warrens, which had allowed the gue to spread uncontrobly.


    Off course, the boggarts still had to be dealt with. Larger andrger hosts of the terrible creatures were being encountered, and scouts were still reporting new hives popping up above ground. With the kingdom so weakened, it would take years of hard warfare to destroy those now.


    Geralhd chuckled darkly. He hoped cknail was ready for several incredibly frantic years. He was in charge of a vast territory now, hobgoblins made for rowdy subjects, and the world had never been more chaotic or dangerous. In normal times, the rise of the hobgoblins and their embrace of civilization would have been an earth-shattering development  one which Geralhd took some proud credit for  but it was a barely a side note to most people.


    They probably didnt realize the implications that were so obvious to Geralhd. The hobgoblins rise was still just starting, and their transformation of the North was far fromplete. From now on, their growth in numbers and power would actually speed up. There was no shortage of wild goblins for them to recruit or forestnd for them im and build viges on. Having disyed a new ability to work together  if only under duress - and mimic human innovation, cknails hobgoblins had everything they needed to build kingdoms of their own.


    There was also the matter of all the refugees fleeing to the North. Apparently, these days hobgoblins werent considered all that scary inparison to gue, boggarts, and the cruel whims of kings. Geralhd chuckled. Oh, how the world had changed!


    After some pressing, cknail had agreed to wee the refugees and even grant themnd under his protection. Their expertise would be extremely useful, even if most of them were penniless farmers. Theyd still be able to teach hobgoblins a lot and they were far more reliableborers and farmers. Soon, fortified towns such Ironbreak would be rising all over the North. cknails power would match that of any southern king, and they were in no position to confront him. They''d have to negotiate with him and his representatives, like Geralhd himself.


    Yes, it was a good thing the hobgoblins had him here to guide them away from the more unsavory paths and prevent unnecessary conflict. Even hobgoblins could act civilized if trained properly. Geralhd smiled as he thought about the power and prestige that would be soon be his thanks to his position as one of cknails most trusted subordinates. It turned out that being exiled for murdering human scum in a duel hadnt been such a huge mistake after all. Hed soon be richer than any of the merchants in his family.


    There was a probably a moral lesson in there somewhere, but Geralhd had no idea what it was. Really, cknail and all hispanions should have learned a lot from the incredible chain of events that had befallen them, or something at the very least, but he was quite sure that none of them had.

 The Good and Bad News

    The Good and Bad News


    I will deliver the good news first, to cushion the blow. It is as follows. Ive been working non-stop to get out some chapters of a new story that I think youll love. Yeah! This new story is an action-packed martial arts story with elements from Xianxia, a deep cultivation system, horror elements, a unique universe, and a cast of interesting characters. Its entitled <strong>Though the Heavens Should Fall</strong>, and I hope you like it. It has a lot of unique elements - like <strong>the Iron Teeth</strong> - so it should even appeal to people who don''t like cultivation style stories.


    You can find this new story at my new personal website or at royalroad. I will be putting out an additional two chapters every week, and sometimes a third. I want to get out enough to establish the plot as quickly as possible, while keeping quality high.


    With thetest arc ending, theres been a lot of spection about where <strong>the Iron Teeth</strong> will go next. Unfortunately, Im sorry to say that <strong>The Iron Teeth</strong> web serial will be going on hiatus. Im very sorry to do this, but I really feel its necessary. There are a lot of reasons for this.


    Writing <strong>The Iron Teeth</strong> has been a lot of fun, and Ive been doing it for three years now. It was my first major writing project and thats a long time to continuously work on one project. Not only have I been writing all the chapters for the web serial, but Ive also been working on the book versions. However, over that time, Ive grown a little exhausted with the story and it has suffered quality wise because of that. I need a break to get things in order and refresh my interest, and I cant do that if I need to keep churning out chapter after chapter.


    I wont be halting work on the seriespletely. Theres still the matter of the books. I will be editing the story to improve it for the book version and correct the ws I feel have crept into the story because it has stretched on for so long without me taking a break. In particr, I feel a lot of the side characters have suffered plot-wise because Ive been forced to keep advancing the story without stop, and there are other issues as well. A lot of the characters need to have their personalities rounded out and their plots expanded before I start writing new stuff for them. If I were to keep writing without a break, it would really hurt the depth of the story, and I want to write as high quality stuff as possible.


    This isnt a sudden decision. Ive been nning on doing this for a while, but to do right by my readers, I put it off until Id wrapped uprge parts of the story so that you wouldnt be left hanging. Several plots havee to natural end now, so its the right time for a break.


    This editing break will also give me time to correct other ws in the story and learn from reader feedback. So, please tell me what you think about the story in depth. My new discordis probably the best ce for this.


    Of course, I dont want to leave my readers with nothing, so I will be putting out another story that I think you will like while Im doing this editing, ie <strong>Though the Heavens Should Fall. </strong>Ive learned a lot of from <strong>Worldshift</strong>  like how to plot aplete story - and I hope to apply it to both to this new story and to my editing of <strong>the Iron Teeth</strong>. I also need to do some serious reorganizing in regard to my website, Patreon, and my promotional strategy. So, expectrge changes there soon.


    Again, Im sorry to do this, but it had to happen eventually. I wish I had unlimited time, focus, and inspiration, but I dont. Im just one guy. Please check out <strong>Though the Heavens Should Fall. </strong>I think youll like it.


    If you want a notice when I restart the Iron Teeth, you can find my email list here.


    The Novel will be updated first on this website. Come back and


    continue reading tomorrow, everyone!