“Lord Anton.” The Beast-kin soldier saluted Anton, resting on a supply crate in the Portal Building, checking his uncomfortable boots. "The portal to the Pakdel Lamias is safe and secure. We have already established a perimeter on the other side and merely await your arrival."

"Thank you. Tell them we'll be there shortly."

The Beast-kin soldier gave another salute before stepping back through the portal.

"He seems very enthusiastic." Anton murmured, giving his boots one last tap.

“Don’t tell me you still haven’t learnt their names.” Kal sighed. She shook her head and placed a hand onto her hip. “I know those two look very similar but they are different.”

“Nassau and Itrez, right?”

Kal’s eyebrows shot up. “I almost thought you were deliberately remembering them?”

“I’ve got a lot of names to remember. And, I do normally just call for Eider.”

Kal sighed and shook her head. “Regardless, they are very loyal and enthusiastic. Not that there's anything wrong with that."

"Do we have enough ammunition?" Cetina asked. She wore her Frindal armor, her sword sheathed on her hip. She shivered slightly. "It's a little cold with this on right now."

"Frindal's a desert." Anton glanced at Zuhura, patiently standing in the corner of the Portal Building. "Freezing during the night and blistering hot during the day."

Zuhura gave a curt nod.

"But do we have enough ammunition?" Cetina gently tapped a small box with her boot. "There's only eight of these in all of Atros."

Rasha, wearing a lightened version of her full steel armor, picked up the boxes and placed them before the portal. On top was a crudely etched shape of a bullet. Anton removed the lid and smiled at the sight. A sea of brass casings and steel bullets greeted him. Each was organized into small clips of five, the same number their Battle Rifles used.

Anton put his finger into the box and stirred, like it was a thick cake mix. "But this will do for now. Don't forget," Anton held a clip up. "That this is enough to kill anyone in this room. Just one."

"Same with a crossbow bolt." Rasha leant on her halberd.

Anton placed the clip back and refastened the lid. "True. But one crossbow can't kill you from over a mile away."

Anton nodded at Rasha as she lifted all four simultaneously. "It will have to do. I'm sure the Lamia's will back down if one of their heads explodes."

"Your stories make it sound like we're going to need a lot more than this." Kal murmured.

"Finally." Rasha's short tail moved back and forth so quickly it was almost a blur. "I get to go on an adventure!"

Except this is to kill people, Lamias, that we don't even know.

Rasha flashed through the portal. All of his Personal Retinue, now thirty Humans and Beast-kin with their Battle Rifles, impatiently waited to the side. They did not wear the standard iron and gambeson, rather it was a thick brown desert uniform made entirely of Arachnid Silk and fitted with carapace plates. Incredibly strong, lightweight and relatively easy to replace, it was an ideal material for the first of a new type of soldier. Anton had visions from Earth, of Special Forces raiding a desert compound, though none of those had large furry ears of a tail slowly swaying between their legs.

Opposite those stood Cetina, Mezot and Axia, all in their Frindal clothes. Longinious waited behind them with Zuhura standing beside her. While he wanted to bring Calo and Sheso, this was also the first time one of his projects might be used in battle. They needed to stay a secret as long as possible, and there was no way that they wouldn't speak of such a strange and terrifying weapon.

It's not that I don't trust you. It's just that I don't trust everyone that would learn of it.

“Her first.” Verona chuckled. “She’s been so happy she can barely hold it back. Asking me what to do in a foreign land.” Verona chuckled again. “Like I am the person she should be asking. That’s Kal and Cetina’s thing, not me.”

“That’s underselling yourself a little bit.” Anton gave her a deep kiss. “But we’ll definitely keep ourselves behaved. As should you and… Kal?”

Kal spoke with Longinious, the floating mermaid listening intently and nodding furiously. Kal gave her shoulder a quick pat before stepping back.

“Anything serious?”

“Just that she’s to protect you with her life.” Kal said. “Since her body is indestructible-”

“Not indestructible, but I cannot be destroyed so long as Anton lives. So a meat shield.”

Anton sighed as Longinious looked rather proud of herself. It was incredibly jarring to hear such a statement, even though he’d witnessed deep injuries heal themselves in a matter of seconds.

“We shouldn't be too long.” Anton stood up, giving Kal a quick kiss. “Just a quick meeting, a little show of strength and back here. I say that…"

"Come back soon." Verona stepped back. If she didn't they would easily spend an hour giving more goodbyes. "Stay safe, Anton."

Anton waved the soldiers through. Their determination wavered at the portal, for most it was probably their first time, but they stepped through all the same.

Anton took a deep breath as his foot crossed the portal boundary. "Nothing gained by standing still."

He was certain he heard Verona giggle the moment before everything turned white. A blast of hot air greeted him, bringing him back to his senses. He stepped off the portal and winced for the impending pain. Nothing came. Nothing but the standard faint headache and disorientation, both of which faded rapidly with every breath.

"You're not in any pain?" Rasha offered her hand. “The last time you needed healing and to sit down.”

Though Anton didn't need it he still took it, even though his hand was but a child's compared to hers.

"No more than usual." Anton tapped his boots onto the dark brown stone and ground it against the dull sand. "And we're in the right place too. So that's a plus."

Rasha smiled and stepped to the side. The terrain was definitely in the Lamia territory in the mountainous wild east of Frindal: large mountains dotting the landscape, boulders and stones lay everywhere while a few errant hardy brown plants tried to grow in their shade. In the distance Anton saw faint trails of smoke rising from a small valley between two mountains. They were too far away to see properly but it looked like the Lamia's, and the Feral Beast-kin, had carved their homes into the mountainside.

The soldiers of his Personal Retinue had formed a rough circle around the portal, their Battle Rifles resting in their hands. Eider, wearing similar clothes to the soldiers but with a helmet more suited for her body shape, moved behind them, ensuring they had as many bullets as they could safely carry, along with ensuring they did not shoot anyone accidentally. Training them with the new weapons had gone well and very quickly. Using the Battle Rifles used very little strength compared to a crossbow and its immense strength was self-evident.

The Lamia's waited beyond them. Hundreds of dark blue bodies, a mixture of a human and snakes, slowly moved back and forth, a hypnotic mass of flesh, glistening and shining beautifully underneath the bright sun. Most were curious of their new guests, brazenly plastered over their faces, but none dared venture past a faint line of warrior Lamia's. Anton recognized the two at the front, Sattar and Simin. They seemed to have a few fresh wounds but nothing too serious. Their underbelly’s only had a few white scuff marks, while the others were just as damaged as before.

I wonder how many times they were attacked? What would have happened... I don't think it matters too much. No one would put the portal stones into a circle and trick us to come through. The stones only have a small scratch marking on them after all.

Mezot and Axia stepped through next. They too were relieved to be somewhere warm. The next breath and they wanted to return.

"Hello." Anton waved his hand towards the Lamia’s. He covered his mouth as he coughed hard. "I'm glad to see that you're in one piece."

As Sattar and Simin approached the portal flashed and everyone began to emerge at a steady pace. The soldiers quickly took their position. Eider gave Anton a worried smile as she pointed to her face.

"It'll be fine, Eider." Anton stood by her side. "They'll understand it's not exactly something you chose."

Rasha took a step back as Cetina rushed to his other side. Behind him Mezot and Axia held their staves tight. Zuhura, though unarmed, looked far more comfortable in the heat rather than the cold of Atros. Longinious merely looked at her surroundings and towards the sky. Anton hoped he could explain what she was, even though he himself did not fully understand.

"You look a little different than when we parted." Sattar stopped about a meter from the line of soldiers. Sattar's eyes glanced at the metal weapons in their hands. "Many more too. And Beastkin… Though..." He pulled his humanoid body low, to match the soldiers in height. "Though they do look different compared to ours."

"I have yet to see these Feral Beastkin." Anton noticed some of the Beast-kin's tails twitch at their mention. "But I can see many more Lamias than I was expecting."

Simin nodded seriously as she folded her arms. Anton heard an angry tongue click from Axia, he already knew Mezot would be staring in envy.

"When we explained you to our Elders they said they wanted to meet you right away." She smiled as she nodded towards the mountain and its thin trails of smoke. "It's a lot easier to go to them, rather than to drag them out here. Lazy bastards."

Sattar laughed. "Though it would warm them up a bit more. Maybe enough to get them moving again?"

"True. True..." Simin's eyes had already looked over everyone. She did not consider Rasha or Longinious as particularly noteworthy but they stopped dead on Eider. "You. What sort of Beast-kin are you?"

Eider held her ground under the Lamia's gaze. "My name is Eider. And I am a Cobra Beast-kin."

"Ah. I see. I thought you might be this Cobra obrathat Anton spoke of." Simin pulled closer, Eider's two bodyguards stepped closer but it was unnecessary. Simin smiled and resumed her normal stance. "That's very interesting. I didn't think it was possible to make a new Beast-kin species, but I am clearly wrong."

We never did discover how the Seocurians managed it. Maybe something like the Hamtaro's? A secret United Empire stash? Given it was many years ago I doubt we'll ever know.

Sattar began to turn away, his powerful snake tail undulated to propel him forward. "If you want to get out of this sun, and meet our Elders, I'd ask that you follow us. We'll take you to them right away. Unless... Unless you require something to drink or eat first? Our Elders are more than understanding, and it looks like you've come a long way. Not like they’re even awake."

"We shall be fine." Anton said. Cetina finished collecting the portal stones and slung the bag over her back. "Please, lead the way."

Sattar and Simin shouted orders to the gathered Lamia's. Some looked disappointed, the vast majority of those were females, but they followed the instructions regardless.

"It's nice not being stared at." Rasha said happily. A giddy happy, of being let out on an adventure for the first time.

"Well, I definitely don't like it." Eider shook her head, her long tongue licked at the air. "You said they were big, just not that big."

"It's all muscle too." Anton pointed to the tails of the warrior Lamias. "You see those marks? That's where they throw those spears from."

"Throw?" Eider looked thoroughly confused.

"I'll explain it to you later.” Anton smiled. “Just suffice to say that they’re very strong. And more than a little… adventurous.”

“Simin wanted to take you back.” Cetina laughed. “For a masseuse, or whatever. She said you were very good with your hands.”

“That is true.” Rasha laughed. “Maybe that can help things go better if the worse happens.”

---[]---

The Human and Beast-kin soldiers stayed close to Anton, squinting from underneath their helmets, watching the Lamia’s above in their stone carved city. Unlike the Orcs in the Red Spines there were very few buildings outside of the stony surface, at least above the valley floor. Wooden storehouses lay along the base of the valley, stacked to the brim with food and guarded by older Lamias. Large wooden walkways ran along the front of the buildings, more than large enough for two Lamia’s moving side by side. Thankfully they had large and strong railing to stop accidents. Unfortunately, Anton could not see any of the Feral Beast-kin. He looked high and as far as he could into the stone carved buildings but found nothing. More tellingly, the buildings were designed for the larger bodies of Lamia’s, but that didn’t preclude the presence of the smaller Feral Beast-kin.

“Simin?” Anton asked loudly. The deep blue Lamia turned to face him and, much to Anton’s initial concern, she continued to slither forward without watching . “Where are the Feral Beast-kin? Do they not live with you?”

“We…” Simin clicked her tongue. “Some of our Elders don’t like the idea of the Feral Beast-kin living within our cities. They are nearby, and they have quite a large city, but they normally don’t come here.”

“Second class citizens.” Longinious scoffed. She and Zuhura had moved closer to him. The Lamia’s barely gave Zuhura more than a passing glance but Longinious’s ability to float was a source of bemusement rather than the shock Anton expected. “Only slightly better than the Seocurians… And so close to what has happened before.”

“Before?” Zuhura frowned and tilted her head.

Longinious glanced at Anton. Zuhura did not know about Earth, and it was not the right time now. Anton gave a tiny shake of his head.

“The United Empire,” Longinious nodded slowly. “If what Anton believes is true, treated the Beast-kin poorly after military defeats against the Wood Elves. While it was the fault of individuals, and not the Beast-kin race as a whole, they were still oppressed, relegated to second class citizens, then finally enslaved or exterminated.”

“I see…” Zuhura frowned at Anton. It wasn’t exactly an answer to her question but it was vaguely in the right direction. She gave a tiny shrug and continued to follow.

Simin and Sattar pointed to one of the largest stone carved buildings. The wooden ramp was of a much gentler slope than the others and considerably wider, and the multiple railings were heavily reinforced compared to the other walkways.

For the elderly? So they don’t start to slide down, when their muscles start to lose strength? That’s not actually a bad idea.

“This way, please.” Sattar snapped his fingers at the other Lamia warriors. “You soldiers will come with us, but our stragglers cannot.”

The Lamia’s grumbled and moaned, throwing rude gestures at the warriors but it was in jest at worst. Smiles still covered their faces and many still pointed and whispered about their new guests. Some tried to call out to them, Anton gave them a quick wave, which elicited a few squeals from the women.

“Really?” Anton asked aloud.

“They seem very interested in Humans.” Mezot said softly. “Last time they were too, especially since our skin is so much lighter than a Frindal’s.”

Anton silently agreed, knowing it was far more intimate than that, as they followed the wooden walkway into the stone carved building. Eight impressive warrior Lamia’s guarded the entrance. Rasha smiled at Anton, as she didn’t have to duck through the door. A cool air washed over him as they passed, even Zuhura shuddered at the sudden change of temperature.

In the large cavern lay a dozen elderly Lamias, their blue scales dimmed and scuffed by age. As was the rest of their bodies. They wore the most clothes of any Lamia so far. Enough to keep them warm and hide the loose skin and hanging jowls. Before each lay a small brazier, burning with a bright white flame. Curiously the metalwork of the braziers was clearly far superior to anything else the Lamia’s had, even the giant hooked metal spears.

“I wonder if they’re from the United Empire.” Anton mused. “I would like to get a better look…”

The white light illuminated the Elders in a way to make them look more intimidating and threatening, casting unnatural shadows across their bodies. If Anton was some uneducated and naive Feral Beast-kin he would definitely be thoroughly intimidated.

“Honorable Elders.” Simin clapped hands together and bowed low enough to almost reach the floor, her snake body shifted to take the strain. “We have brought the Humans to you. I believe that they will be a tremendous boon to our Clan, if we can come to an agreement.”

At least she’s trying to tell them that we’re not going to be easily exploited. Like that other Clan tried to do. What was their name? The bronze ones...Akram, I believe. I should remember that.

“Thank you, Simin.” A male Elder began. “It is not every day that we have Humans in our lands. Especially foreign humans.”

"Such pale skin." Another murmured.

“Greetings.” Anton took a step forward. His eyes glanced either side, he was very thankful that the warrior Lamia’s were not trying to stop him. A welcome reaction. “My name is Anton. I have indeed come from across the seas to your lands in search of allies and trading opportunities. We were… Misled by some of the Frindals at the border city and were about to be taken by the Akram Clan, I believe that’s what they’re called. Lamia’s with bronze skin.”

He stopped, finding nothing on the illuminated faces of the Lamia Elders.

“But two of your warriors, Simin and Sattar, saved us.” Anton smiled. “I have found them to be far nicer and more accommodating than the Akram’s, who wanted to capture and ransom us, not to mention they were better warriors, killing the enemies while outnumbered more than two to one with no serious injuries.”

The pair seemed quite pleased with Anton’s praise, so too were the Elders.

“While we Pakdel’s are glad to hear your praise, Human.” The Elder Lamia coughed harshly for a few moments, Anton felt a vague compulsion to do the same. “We still find it strange that a foreign human has come to our lands, after traveling through Frindal. We have no ports with which to trade and the distances along are just so vast…”

“I have ways of traveling across vast distances instantly. As I’m sure that you’re well aware that we did not travel with Simin and Sattar. And yet here we are, with many more than when we met them.”

“Indeed.” A different Elder began to speak, this one was slightly younger than the others but only by a few years. “You said you wished to trade with us? Why? What could we possibly have that a Human from across the sea cannot simply buy in Frindal? Or one of the other lands? Why do you come to us, Human?”

Here goes nothing… Again.

“I shall be frank as to not waste either of our time. I need resources and allies, both of which I can get in your lands. I need vast amounts of high quality ores, of both common and rare metals, which Simin and Sattar have told me you have in abundance. Even if the rate of extraction is rather low.”

“Those exports are one of the main sources of trade with the Frindals.” The first Elder spoke again.

“And judging from the state of your land you receive only a pittance in return. No?” Anton looked around the room for any objections, finding less than none. “Despite the metals being used to fuel war machines and the Frindal’s economies, both Coastal and Nomad, you are living in relative squalor, even if you may not wish for more.”

“You can pay more?”

“Considerably more.” Anton gently waved Zuhura forward. “This is Zuhura. She is my financial and economic advisor-”

“A Frindal Nomad advising you on how to potentially cheat them out of a lucrative trade?” A third Elder spoke. His coiled body tightened but only so his humanoid torso could lean back against it. “Are we to believe anything you say?”

“I am no longer aligned with the Nomad Tribes.” Zuhura spoke calmly. “My services are currently at Anton’s disposal and his city.”

“Currently… I see.”

Zuhura looked at Anton. She had not spoken a lie, she could leave Atros at any time if she wished, however it could be interpreted as such.

“We can hammer out the details, the specifics, of such a trade deal later.” Anton smiled. “Not to mention we have many things of our own that we would be more than willing to sell.”

“All this way for money?” The second Elder scoffed. “And this thing about allies?”

The first part’s easy. Money’s always a good sell. This part…

“I do not know how much you know of the lands beyond your borders, but even as we speak the Wood Elves are fighting a terrible threat. Creatures that are pouring through literal tears in our world. Though they are currently confined to their lands these tears are spreading. We have already fought these Demons in Graterious, a land to the north, and they are incredibly dangerous. We need all the allies we can get to fight this threat and I feel that the Lamias… The Lamias and the Feral Beast-kin will be a great help to us.”

“To help the Wood Elves?” One asked.

Another looked at Sattar. “That Rouya wasn’t entirely crazy then…”

“No. I do not care for them or their goddess.” Anton said sternly. “I wish to keep safe what is mine. Not to mention my lands are plagued by threats and dangers, and I need all the allies I can get. If, by helping your Clan gain total dominance over these lands, I can bolster my own strength, then that is what I shall do.”

The Elders remained silent. Anton feared he had said something wrong, or not enough, but they began to slither towards the Elders at the center. Anton caught Sattar’s eye, who seemed rather hopeful at these developments.

“Are we about to have a repeat of the Dark Elves?” Cetina whispered to Anton. “Or the Fire Elves?”

“No… No. Not yet at least. But keep your eyes peeled. One of those damned harpoons they have is going to go right through anything we have.”

“Right.”

The Elders slowly dispersed and returned to their original positions.

“You would help us defeat the other Clans, to become undisputed rulers, for metal and an alliance?”

“Yes.” Anton smiled. “And a small military fortress. Which we will conduct our trade through and allow both of our forces to travel here and to my lands. And, should some calamity affect these lands, it will provide your Clan considerable protection.”

“It is a tempting offer.” The first Elder said. “However, our Clan is currently in significant trouble and, even if we did agree to anything with you, we are simply not in a position to help.”

Anton slowly nodded. “Your warriors mentioned that you were almost the rulers of these lands, but then the other Clans attacked you simultaneously, weakening you to the point where you are at the bottom. A cycle that appears to happen regularly.”

The Elders grumbled, Simon and Sattar could not hide their smile. Anton noticed some of the guards held similar looks, though they hid it much better.

“It… Is true.” The third Elder sighed. “It has even gotten to the point where the Kamran’s have an outpost near here. Near our capital… I’m just thankful we’ve managed to move most of our people southward. But if they decide to reinforce for an attack we will have nowhere to go.”

“Then this is a perfect opportunity!” Anton gently motioned towards one of the soldiers. “We have new weapons that need testing, incredibly powerful weapons. Perhaps we can help each other?”

The Elders began to mutter amongst themselves.

I don’t think you have much of a choice. Should have asked just how big this outpost is, but we should be enough. Glyph magic works pretty well here. Nothing like columns of fire to cut through any obstacle.

“Agreed.” The First Elder nodded. Simin and Sattar sighed in relief. “If you are able to help us deal with the other Lamia Clans we will agree to this deal of yours. Dealing with the Kamran Outpost will be a tremendous start to see how worthy this alliance will be.”

“We will have to review the full terms of such an agreement.” The Second Elder quickly added, frowning at the first. “But as a preliminary-”

“I understand.” Anton gently raised his hand. “I presume, however, that you do not expect us to do this on our own. We are few, but we will be more than able to support an offensive.”

“Sattar?” An Elder at the edge of the circle spoke. Wearing heavy clothes and a croaky voice, it was hard to tell if they were male or female. “Prepare as many warriors as we can safely spare. And bring the Feral Beast-kin too. Perhaps you can find some use for them.”

“Perhaps they can soak up some of the spears and arrows.”

Anton did not know which Elder said it but all started to laugh.

Well, looks like we’ll be doing some more interfering before we’re done.

“Please be aware that my Beast-kin are not fodder or expendable.” Anton said. “Far from it.”

The Elders said nothing, their faces completely blank like Anton had just spoken incomprehensible dribble.

“I will gather the warriors.” Simin said loudly. “Sattar? Could you take Anton and his companions and gather the Feral…” She sighed softly. “The Beast-kin Levies. Make sure they are ready and wearing as much armor as they can get.”

We have some spares. Perhaps they can use them? Even a thick shirt is better than nothing.

“Of course.” Sattar gave Simin a quick kiss before slithering towards the entrance. “I’ll do what I can.”

“We wish you well, Anton, pale Human from across the seas.”

Anton bowed his head. “We will return once the outpost has been dealt with.”

The Elders returned the bow of their head before they began to speak furiously amongst themselves. Simin and Sattar exited first and waited for them to follow.

“That went pretty well.” Simin’s long snake body shuddered, the light refracted against her blue scales. “Normally they can be pretty grumpy.”

“Guess the fires have kept them warm.”

“Levies?” Rasha stopped. Her hooves clacked loudly against the wooden walkway. “What does that mean?”

“They force the Beast-kin to fight.” Zuhura spoke before Anton could. “It has happened in some of the wars between the Coastal and Nomadic Frindals. Usually civilians or farmers, utterly unskilled at warfare and expected to die to preserve the soldiers' lives.”

“What?” Rasha and Eider shared disturbed glances.

“It may be a little more complex than that.” Anton motioned for them to continue down the walkway. “But essentially it’s the truth. Normally, from my memories, they aren’t given serious weapons or armor, mainly scraps or looted gear. Whatever they can scrounge up. But, given the state of the Lamia’s around us…”

Simin and Sattar gave each other worried looks.

“I can’t imagine they’re given anything. Probably just a kitchen knife… Or a simple stone tipped spear. Probably just a sharpened rock for a knife. How well do they fare against one of you? Even without that harpoon thing that you throw.”

“Not well.” Simin mumbled. “Not well at all.”

Anton stopped at the bottom of the walkway. “And the other Clans?”

“The same… Or worse.”

“How haven’t they rebelled?” Eider asked. Rasha, Cetina and even Axia mirrored her sentiment. Mezot remained silent, following behind while observing the valley city.

“Because they’d be killed.” Simin shook her head. “If they aren’t a part of any Clan then they’re easy prey.”

“Everywhere Beast-kin are oppressed.” Rasha scoffed. “Except one place.”

“But even this can be used.” Anton began. “We have spares. Weapons and armor. If we were to give them to the Feral Beast-kin levies then it would do far more for your cause than just strengthening your side.”

“How?” Sattar stopped and loosely coiled his tail, lowering himself to look Anton in the eyes.

“The other Feral Beast-kin would see that your Clan cares for them.” Cetina said. She glanced at Zuhura, who gave a small nod but frowned lightly at Anton the moment she looked away. “It would also lower the morale of the other Feral Beast-kin.”

“Interesting.” Sattar slowly nodded. “But I don’t think the Elders will agree with such a thing.”

“They won’t have much of a choice once it’s already happened.” Anton smiled. “And once they see how devastating it will be towards the enemy’s morale, it’ll stay.”

And even if they don’t it’ll be hard to recover all of the weapons and armor. Even more so once we’ve established our fortress here.

“On a different topic, what sort of maps do you have? We need a strong position to build our fortress.”

“We have a complete map… Somewhere.” Simin idly said. “But I have no idea where.”

“If you could please.” Anton smiled. “We need all the help that we can get.”

Simin gave a curt nod and caught the attention of one of the Lamia warriors. Anton tapped Eider’s shoulder.

“Are they ready? The Lamia’s we go to fight are just like these.” Anton nodded to Sattar. “Very large and strong. You haven’t seen just how fast they can throw those harpoons of theirs.”

“We are.” Eider stiffened her back. “We understood that we would be killing the moment we agreed to this.” She glanced at each of Anton’s companions in turn. “We all know that. Even those that don’t have to fight up close.”

“I think she’s talking about us.” Axia murmured to her mother. Mezot did not hear, distracted by her surroundings, not that Axia really seemed to mind.

“And the Feral Beast-kin?” Eider and the Beast-kin soldiers looked rather nervous. “They will be trying to kill you too, even if they are being forced or coerced.”

“I…” Eider’s shoulders dropped. Nassau and Itrez held her shoulders tight. She scrunched her eyes tight before staring back into Anton’s. “Even though I do not like it, I, we will do it.”

Anton nodded. “I won’t ask you again.”

Sattar gave them a gentle wave for them to follow him along the valley. Anton followed, wondering what these levies would look like.

---[]---

“I am beyond disappointed.” Anton kept his arms folded. It was all he could do to stop his fingers from balling into an angry fist, even though they dug deep into his arms. “Actually, disappointed is the wrong word. Disgusted is probably the right word.”

“It’s the way it’s always been.” Sattar said softly, the lack of enthusiasm in his voice was plain to Anton’s ears. Somehow it made it much worse.

“It’s!...” Anton took another deep breath to calm himself.

The assembled Feral Beast-kin were almost identical to those they met at the Frindal border, resembling the Feline types of Beast-kin from Seocuria, but far more malnourished. They reminded him of Kal when she first arrived in Atros and, disturbingly, the ever-present Goblin menace. None of the Feral Beast-kin wore anything more than a ragged shirt and pants, many not even that, and even some of those levies were clearly females, albeit very malnourished. Each held a simple wooden stone tipped spear, a few with a dented and rusted metal lid as a shield. All watched the blue Pakdel Lamia’s with equal measures of fear and awe. Twigs staring at Greek Gods. Anton had no idea how they were expected to do anything to someone as large and powerful as Sattar, apart from perhaps buying a few seconds, or hold them down to be impaled by a steel harpoon along with the target.

“It is almost as bad as Seocuria.” Anton said. “Perhaps even worse. I don’t know.”

“This is what we have.” Sattar did not sound happy either.

“Right…”

Anton caught the eye of a Feral Beast-kin. The moment that he realized Anton was looking back he cast his eyes away and down, his very body tensed with fear.

This…

“Cetina? Please set up the portal. The supplies should be ready to come through. The sooner that we get them something better than these scraps the better.”

“Right.” Cetina spoke calmly.

“Not to mention the Dwarves will be ready. See what they have to make of this terrain for building a fortress.” Anton looked to a nearby mountain. “I think that will be a good place.”

Not to mention these Lamia will always know that we are watching them.

As Cetina established the portal Anton turned his attention to the Feral Beast-kin city beyond. It was as pathetic as the Feral Beast-kin; simple low huts made from stacked stones roofed with whatever dried vegetation they could find, dotted between the houses were vague walls of small and hardy trees that bore small green fruits. He was certain he could see some small livestock pens but the creatures were no larger than small chickens.

A very austere diet.

The moment the portal was established Human, Beast-kin and Dwarves stepped through, each bursting with old weaponry and armor. While it was utterly inferior to their current equipment it was leagues better than the rags the Feral Beast-kin had. Though the Feral Beast-kin did everything they could to not look, it was impossible to miss the flickering eyes, the twitching of their dry noses.

“Basic and simple equipment will increase their effectiveness by several orders of magnitude.” Anton continued to wave the supplies through. “We were going to have them recycled, but this is a much better use.”

“These will be enough?” Sattar tapped the simple iron tipped spears and old cloth gambeson.

“Far more than what the enemy has.” Anton said. “It may not seem like much to you, whose body has all the natural advantages you could possibly want, but trust me. These are fantastic.”

Against other Feral Beast-kin. I don’t think even our armor is going to do much against one of those harpoons.

Anton heard a deliberate, deep clearing of a throat. A small group of Dwarves stood behind him, their stocky arms folded in an oddly defiant pose.

“Umikgruid told us that you wanted to build a fortress.” The Dwarves shared a curious expression. “Out here, in these strange, hot lands.”

“A single fortress, but one large and strong enough to protect not just our interests but the Lamia’s and the Feral Beast-kin in case of disaster.”

“Right…”

“Of course you will be given complete free reign over the design.” Anton smiled, knowing exactly what his words would do to them. “Whatever you want, so long as it’s sensible.”

The previous apathy instantly vanished, replaced with a burning desire. A desire to design and build beyond the rigid conformity their race had been subjected to for centuries. They slowly walked towards a small hill and pointed towards the mountain, furiously muttering to one another as papers were drawn and plans discussed.

“That’ll keep them busy for a while.” Anton shook his head. “Like curious children.”

“Are they not children?” Sattar asked. While he looked at the Dwarves with the Lamia’s normal curious eyes he dared not get any closer than Anton. “They are not particularly tall… But children do not usually have beards. I think. Do baby Humans have beards?”

“No. Just short. Dwarves exceptional at building, with stone, metal and even wood. True masters at their craft. Far better than anything any human or Lamia could create.”

“I see.” Sattar clearly did not believe the short little men and women could do what Anton claimed but time would show him the truth.

Their collective attention fell back onto the Feral Beast-kin. None had moved, nor had their attention moved far from the piles of weapons and armor.

“Take a weapon and some armor.” Anton said loudly, trying to sound as authoritative as possible. “Your chances of survival will increase massively if you use these. It is infinitely better than what you have now.”

None of the Feral Beast-kin moved. Their nervous and twitchy eyes were locked onto the Lamia’s.

Guess I’ll have to make the first move.

Anton took a short spear and a simple set of light Gambeson. He walked towards Feral Beast-kin that had dared to look him in the eye, if only for a single moment. As Anton approached he tensed and readied for something.

“These.” Anton thrust the bundle into reach of his arms. “These are for you. Weapons and armor, so you aren’t killed in the first few seconds of battle.”

The Feral Beast-kin did not take it. His terrified eyes fell on Sattar. Obviously he thought this was some elaborate game, a trick to make him expose a hidden desire to rebel. Anton sighed, knowing that he could not force the Feral Beast-kin to do anything.

“Sattar?” Cetina said.

“Hm? Right.” Sattar folded his arms and pulled his body higher. “Beast-kin Levies. Take the weapons and armor that has been given to you. They are a gift from our new allies, and you should be grateful for them.”

At first the Feral Beast-kin moved with extreme hesitation, then all at once, like they realized they were actually instructed to take weapons and armor they could never expect to look upon, let alone wield.

“This…” A Feral Beast-kin whispered as he held his bundle. “Is this for us?”

“Of course.” Anton smiled as warmly as the situation would allow him. “These are your weapons and armor.”

“For now.” A Pakdel Lamia sniggered, many of the others joined in.

The Feral Beast-kin winced.

“Don’t worry about them.” Anton gently held the Feral Beast-kin’s shoulder. It trembled under his touch. “Things are going to start changing around here, for the better.” Anton shot the Lamia’s a cold glance. “The brutality of old will be replaced with something far more agreeable. I’m sure that you could do more if you weren’t constantly on the verge of starvation and exhaustion. No?”

Anton did not wait for a response and gently pushed him towards the others. He hoped he had not painted a target on his back, it was not an impossible outcome.

“They look a little better.” Rasha mused. She brought her metal gauntlet to her chin and winced. “Damn. Didn’t realize it would get so hot.”

“It is quite a shock, isn’t it?” Anton smiled at the Blue Oni. “You’ll feel the exact same when you get back home."

Rasha smirked. "Can't use you to cool down, can I?"

Rasha tried to ruffle his hair, eventually settling on patting his helmet. After the incident with the Fire Elves he ensured he always had proper head-gear no matter what. It also resulted in a considerable amount of doting from everyone, even Mezot which was very nice.

“Do you want some ice?” Mezot asked. She held her staff out slightly. “It would be very easy.”

Rasha and Cetina laughed, Axia joined in as well. Mezot looked rather confused as to why they refused her generous offer. Quickly she decided it wasn’t worth pondering and returned her attention to the planning Dwarves.

"Your magic will be critical in the coming battle." Anton gave her a quick kiss. "So please use it sparingly."

Mezot nodded. “Of course.”

“What about your warriors?” Anton asked Sattar, watching them with mild amusement. “Right now I think that these Feral Beast-kin levies are better armored than you.”

Sattar looked at his humanoid torso. While he wore little in the way of hides, cloth or metal armor his scales formed a very effective natural protection.

Against cuts and scrapes. Not from one of those harpoons. Certainly not a bullet...At least, I certainly hope so. I doubt we’re going to get another meeting with someone like Simin and Sattar.

“They’ll be here soon.” Sattar looked towards the valley. “Simin’s normally very quick with this sort of thing.”

“Excuse me.” Zuhura raised her hand. She was incredibly comfortable in the heat of Frindal. Unsurprising, of course, but she didn’t appear to be sweating at all yet. “I am detailing everything of our… Operation in Frindal…”

She looked at Longinious, patiently hovering some distance away. Her attention was mainly focused towards the mountain. Anton was certain, rather he knew that she was listening to everything.

“But is there anything to denote you as a leader? Of this force, I mean.” She motioned to him, Sattar merely cocked his head slightly. Zuhura cleared her throat, resting an arm just beneath her chest. A chest that rested higher and appeared to be causing her significantly less pain. “I have not traveled the world, but there are always ways to denote a leader. Such as the… Levies. Who do they look to for leadership? And the Lamias? Who commands the soldiers, the warriors?”

Sattar scratched his head. It was a question the Lamia was not expecting.

“Well, um, Frindal Lady, I don’t really know how to explain it.” Sattar drew a small blade from his hip. “We just… Work together. If someone tells me to attack from a certain direction, let’s say, and I think it’s a good idea or it’s needed to win, then I’ll do it. If it’s too dangerous or not going to work, even if it’s Simin, then I’m not doing it.”

“Interesting…” Zuhura’s pen furiously scratched some notes. “An ad-hoc command style would offer greater flexibility but also make larger scale actions incredibly difficult without the forces coming back and reorganizing for the next assault.”

“Giving the enemy time to do the same.” Cetina said.

“And I thought you said you were only good with numbers.” Anton smiled.

Zuhura tightened her headscarf. “War is only numbers, after all.” She blinked, and lightly kicked at the ground. “But my point still stands.”

“I suppose that’s true.” Sattar shrugged. “It’s the way it’s always been. We’ve had hundreds of alliances with the other Lamia Clans, big and small. If you think it’s bad between us, just imagine how confusing it is when we’re working together. To say it’s difficult is the greatest understatement.”

That could make further integration of the Lamia Clans incredibly difficult, if not impossible. Possibly still good soldiers and allies. But the sheer amount of work needed to get them to be anything more than squabbling clans, with so much baggage and hatreds… Might be easier to just use the Feral Beast-kin and start from the beginning. No pushback there.

“Lord Anton.” The Dwarves briskly returned to Anton, Longinious just behind looking very pleased. “We have made our preliminary designs. I believe that both you and Umikgruid will be very impressed by what we have managed to do here.”

Anton leant closer to see the rough plan. He was a little surprised that Zuhura, Axia and even Mezot wanted a closer look. The design was relatively simple, being little more than a standard high walled concentric ringed fortress with many towers mounted with Dwarven Ballistas. What wasinteresting was the size of the fortress. The mountain had been completely surrounded with only the very top overlooking the innermost wall while the layered walls extended right to the base of the mountain, where the terrain started to flatten out.

“When you said impressed…” Anton smiled. “I didn’t think you wanted to make something that big. It’s gigantic! How long would it take to build such a thing?”

“It would not be built all at once.” The Dwarf pointed to a series of numbers corresponding to the walls, specifically their height. “These will be built in stages. So once the first is complete it will serve as an incredibly strong defensive location, even without these additional constructions.”

The Dwarves nodded to the Lamia’s. “I do not know how strong these Lamia’s are, nor how far they can throw these harpoons, but they won’t be able to breach even these first layers once it’s complete.”

“I see…Return through the portal and show these plans to Umikgruid. I want a fully detailed plan before I approve it. It’ll be a little while before we’re ready for something this big. Perhaps a preliminary phase? Like a smaller fortress at the base of the mountain.”

“Of course.” The Dwarves hurriedly scribbled in the corner of the paper. “I think this will suffice.”

Anton heard Sattar make a noise. Simin emerged from the valley with nearly a hundred warrior Lamias. They too were fully equipped like Sattar, and a little less than half were females.

Though it’s all well and good to say that the women should fight alongside the men, it's a poor sign for the survival of their species…

Anton looked at his companions.

Though I’m certainly in no place to talk.

“Hey!” Simin enthusiastically waved her hand, her upper body shook wildly.

Anton did not even bother to check if Mezot and Axia were annoyed, the answer was obvious, but the looks of the Feral Beast-kin were far more interesting. Most looked at her hungrily, and he doubted it was just because she was a beautiful Lamia.

Maybe she’s one of the few that treat them with any decency? Like a kind teacher… I wonder if I had a crush on any of my teachers?

Again the scratchy memoires tried to surface. Longinious grabbed his shoulder hard and the mental distortions immediately stopped. She said nothing and merely smiled. Anton said a silent thanks and watched Simin approach.

“You sure that you can just afford to give them all this stuff?” She asked. A hand checked the harpoons on her back. “This seems like a lot. How much is this going to cost us?”

“It’s…” Anton coughed harshly. “It’s quite alright. They would have otherwise been gathering dust in some warehouse.”

“If you say so.” Simin shrugged. The other Pakdel Lamias were mentally sizing up his companions, Rasha especially. Their tails were probably stronger but if Rasha could immobilize them, with a halberd through the meatiest part, they’d be incredibly easy prey. “So long as you don’t expect us to pay you… We really don’t have much gold.”

“It’s fine.” Anton motioned for the Dwarves to step through the portal. “So. Where is this Enemy outpost?”

---[]---

Anton observed the Kamran Outpost from their vantage point amongst the rocks and boulders. He was not particularly surprised to discover the outpost was little more of a hurriedly established staging ground, with enough Lamias to pose a threat to the Pakdel’s capital, not to mention the sheer number of Feral Beast-kin levies mulling about. Though the Pakdel Feral Beast-kin Levies were leagues above in terms of armor and weapons, the Kamran’s sheer numbers provided the greatest threat.

“Play to one’s strengths.” Anton clicked his tongue. “But only because you haven’t been issued anything better.”

He knew he was receiving a barrage of odd looks but did not care.

“How do you want to do this?” Sattar asked. He and the other Lamias kept their bodies low to the ground, trying to find refuge in the cracks and crevices created by the boulder laden countryside. “Do you want us to do what we normally do? And you act in support? Oh, or use your magic first to weaken them. That could work.”

Simin gave Sattar a gentle thump to his arm. He mumbled an apology.

“Eider? How close do we need to get for you and the men?”

“Not very close.” Eider looked over a rock, standing on her toes, her legs trembling ever so slightly, with her two Beast-kin bodyguards either side. “But there’s a clear section beyond this boulder field-”

That brought back memories of The White Realm.

“-So I believe that it would be best if we advance to just before that and use the boulders for protection.” Eider looked back, clearly delighted that she received only nods. “That way we can also keep the Lamia’s, and Rasha, safe.”

“Me?” Rasha knelt next to Anton. Though she had dropped to one knee she was only slightly shorter than Anton standing. “Oh. Right. I don’t want to be struck by one of those harpoons.” She nodded to Simin. “Looks nasty.”

“Let’s see how we go.” Anton turned his attention to the Feral Beast-kin Levies. They were still nervous and somehow apathetic to their fate, like they still expected to die. “Do not use the Feral Beast-kin as fodder. Nor to get the enemy out of positions.”

The Pakdel Lamia’s grumbled but voiced no further objection.

“Good.” Anton motioned for Eider to begin to advance. “Don’t do anything too risky-”

“We can hit them from that position.” Axia looked to her mother. “Right?”

Mezot gave a stern nod. “We can do it, Anton. If that is what you want.”

“Be careful with your mana. We have a few mana vials but not many, not to mention the normal Mana Diminishing thingthat Frindal has.”

“l am curious as to why that is. Is there any chance we could investigate…" Mezot coughed and straightened her back before Axia could jab her side. “I understand.”

“Excellent. Longinious?” Anton held out his hand. Longinious took his and glowed bright, transforming into her Spear Form. “How do you feel?”

"Perfectly normal. Whatever is interfering with magic and mana does not appear to affect me or Ancient Magic. I will continue to observe." Longinious made a sound that was almost like she was cracking her neck. "I shall remain in reserve and ready to strike at anyone that gets close. It's been too long already since I've been able to show off."

Not exactly what I had in mind, but if it makes you happy.

“Alrighty then… No one else has any dramas?” Anton received nothing. Eider checked with the soldiers, all were ready. “Let’s go then.”

As they neared the edge of the boulder field, and despite moving as stealthily as possible, they were still spotted. It wasn’t their soldiers, wearing dull brown clothes and shuffling low between the stones, nor the Feral Beast-kin Levies following, but the massive dark blue Lamias. A cry erupted through the enemy outpost, a flurry of movement followed, like an angry hive. The Kamran Lamia’s, with deep yellow scales compared to the Pakdel’s deep blue, shouted and shoved their Feral Beast-kin towards the front. They were clearly terrified but they were still going to fight, if only for their own survival against their Lamia Masters. Anton had some reservation about fighting someone pressed into battle but they had no choice.

Even if we kill all of the Kamran Lamias I’m certain they’ll still fight us. Not to mention they’re probably going to be thrown into the thickest fighting. Where their chances to survive will be pretty poor.

“Mezot? Axia? Unleash a single hit of your most powerful magic.” Anton ruffled Axia’s hair. “I want to see how much you’ve grown.”

Axia smiled wildly and stood next to her mother. As the Lamia’s, and Rasha, took up position behind the boulders, the two Graterian Principle Mages began to chant. Their charms flashed bright and their shoulders dropped. Together they rested forward against the large boulders and stared unblinkingly towards the outpost. The Kamran Lamias stared at the glowing ring of white above them, their looks of shock quickly transformed to terror as gigantic icicles rained down upon them. As the Lamias slithered for safety, throwing their Feral Beast-kin levies aside and into complete chaos, another shape emerged in the sky. A red pentagon emerged to the right, the edges rippling with bursts of flame.

“This is going to be interesting.” Anton muttered. Axia reached back, grabbed his arm, and pulled him closer. With a wicked smile on her face she pointed to the sky.

As the Icicles continued to smash into the outpost the flaming pentagon began to erupt dozens of small fireballs. While they weren’t as large as Mezot’s Icicles they were still devastating, doubly so given the Outposts' highly flammable small tents and huts.

“Were you holding out on us?” Anton asked Axia. “You could do that all this time?”

“No.” Beads of sweat ran down Axia’s face. “I… I may have overdone it.”

Anton lightly slapped the back of her head before helping her to the ground.

“When did you learn that?” Mezot seemed equally impressed and irritated. “You never told me-”

“I wanted to surprise you.” Axia laughed weakly. “I read the books and did my best-”

Mezot dropped to her knees and hugged her daughter with all her might. Axia returned the hold as they both rocked back and forth. While it was a very touching scene they were still in a battle. Anton gently tapped Mezot’s back and pulled her up. Her eyes were slightly red but her attention quickly returned to the battle. Zuhura knelt by Axia and gently rubbed her back. As she could not fight she could do little else but observe.

“Take this.” Zuhura offered Axia a Karak fruit. “I’ve been told it will restore your mana.”

Axia nibbled on the fruit like a hungry rabbit. Anton gave Zuhura a silent thanks and turned his attention back to the Outpost. Both of their magics had finished and had killed many. Kamran Lamias and their Feral Beast-kin levies lay dead, crushed and impaled by shards of ice or burning to death. Screaming into the sky. Again Anton felt a measure of discomfort but knew it was an unavoidable part of war.

Just remember where all that Razor Pig meat comes from.

“Do we attack?” Simin asked.

She and the other Pakdel Lamia’s were clearly ready, chomping at the bit, uncaring about the destructive magic released before them. The Feral Beast-kin were stunned by the destruction and were, predictably, far less enthusiastic about attacking, even moving from their current position.

“Not yet.” Anton raised his hand. “They know that we can just keep attacking… They have no choice but to come to us, if they’re not completely stupid.”

“We can finally see these mysterious weapons of yours.” Sattar eyed off the Battle Rifles. “I think we’re all a little curious about what they can do.”

Anton was eager to see how they would perform. Eager, and more than a little nervous.

Anton nudged Cetina’s side. “Get ready to throw down the portal if everything goes south.”

Cetina gave a single nod. Her hand touched the small bag on her back.

The Kamran Lamias began to recover, rallying the Feral Beast-kin levies into a semblance of order. Anton gave a final check of Eider and the soldiers. They were nervous but determined, he could not ask for anything more. They rested their Battle Riffles on the rocks and readied to fire. With only a few days training they were little better than motivated conscripts. But it was what they had and they would make it work. Eider waited for Anton to give the order.

“We need to get them closer.” Anton told Sattar. “Out of their outpost and into the open terrain. Any ideas?”

Simin licked her lips. ”Watch this.”

She slithered onto one of the nearby rocks and waved towards the outpost, even waving her long tail high into the air. She shouted an incomprehensible number of slurs, seemingly specific for Lamias, and gesticulated wildly. She even pulled up her top and made disparaging remarks about the Kamran females lack of curves and other womanly charms. The Kamran Lamias returned the shouts and began to advance.

“Right. That got them going.” Simin was panting, her smile as wide as her face would allow. “I’d actually run out of things to say.”

Sattar laughed as he hugged Simin. Their tails coiled and began to knot together. “Can’t believe that calling them scaleless bitches was the thing that really got them going.”

“Me neither.” Simin laughed. They took a collective sigh and their jovial demeanor vanished. They retrieved their metal harpoons, as did the other Lamia’s, and coiled their tails around the metal shafts. Simin and Sattar did the same but did not coil themselves as if they were going to attack. At least, not yet.

Anton clicked his tongue as the first Kamran Levies were sent forward, pushed forward by shouts and wild gesticulations. Their advance was slow, hesitant to be the one at the front, to be the first to be impaled by a mighty steel harpoon, but they advanced all the same.

“Soldiers of Atros.” Anton said loudly, everyone watched him. “This is your first true fight. The weapons in your hands are the future of our city, and quite possibly the future of this entire world. Remember your training and you will do fine."

"We will carry out our duty." Eider began. She, Nassau and Itrez began to organize the soldiers to spread out further, to nestle themselves deeper into the rocks in comfortable positions. “Remember your training. Take slow, deep breaths and squeeze the trigger. Don’t pull it or you’ll hurt yourself and miss your shot.”

Eider loaded her Battle Rifle, her hand ran along the black and red marbled wood. “Aim for the center.” She looked over the rock and hissed. “Think of them only as moving targets. They may be slaves like we used to be, but they’ll kill us all the same. We’ll give them the only mercy we can.”

Eider readied her weapon. The other soldiers did not cheer but a grim determination washed over them. As the Kamran Beast-kin Levies neared firing range Anton saw the Kamran Levies had yet to advance. They were content to wait in their ruined Outpost, hoping the Levies would attract their magic at the very least.

“Mezot? Another attack over the Lamias please. We need to sow a little more chaos in their lines.”

Mezot immediately began to chant. As the Kamran Lamia’s did not understand Principle Charms they knew not to flee. Anton gave Eider’s shoulder a tap. She did not look back and nodded.

“Take your time when you aim.” Eider said far more softly. “We have limited bullets, so make every shot count.”

Anton felt a pang of regret now he could see their eyes. Nothing drove them to attack other than that fear. The seconds passed and nothing fired. The Pakdel Lamia’s grew worried and readied their harpoons, even their Feral Beast-kin Levies readied themselves for combat.

“They’re getting close.” Longinious said. “I know that you’ve got good eyesight, Eider. And we’re not that short of ammunition.”

Eider shot her a glance, sighed, pulled the Battle Rifle’s stock into her shoulder and gently squeezed the trigger. A crack rang out, Eider’s shoulder jumped back and a small puff of blue smoke erupted from the barrel. One of the charging Feral Beast-kin Levies’ head exploded. Blood spattered the others as his body dropped. A marionette with its strings cut. Everyone was stunned by what they had just witnessed, except for Anton. He knew exactly what had just happened and what it meant for Atros and even the world. Visions of Earth, of the World Wars and the slaughter that entailed, flowed forth but his thoughts were cut short by a shudder. Rasha held his shoulder, a terrible concern on her face. Only then did Anton realize that he was smiling and it was the same face that Cetina despised. She did not look happy.

“I’m alright, Rasha.” He kissed her hand. “I’m alright.”

Eider pulled the slide back and a spent brass casing spun out, the empty end blackened and split open. It clinked lightly against the stone and against her boot.

“Fire!” Eider yelled.

Her bodyguards shot next, felling another Feral Beast-kin and striking the other in the chest. He howled and screamed in pain, blood erupting from his mouth from the ruptured lung. His death cry stopped the charging levies. Terror gripped them as they looked at Eider, trembling from something they couldn’t understand. Every soldier began to fire the moment they could. Cracks and thin blue smoke filled his vision and ears, mixing with the growing screams and howls of the wounded and dying. Though the Atros soldiers were tiny in number they mowed down the enemies like harvesting wheat.

“What is this?” Zuhura peered around the stone. She winced as Eider and Nassau readied another clip of bullets. “Is… Is this…”

Anton gave her shoulder a reassuring hold as the soldiers continued to fire. Their Pakdel allies, both Feral Beast-kin and Lamia’s, could not comprehend what they were witnessing. But there was something they could see. That these strange outsides had brought something that would forever change their way of life. And now it had been unleashed there was no going back.

Giant icicles rained down over the Kamran Lamias. They too screamed and ran for what cover they could find.

“Don’t stop until they’re all down!” Eider yelled. Most of their soldiers had shaking arms and legs, their teeth grit in terror and fear. Fear at what must have felt like magical terror in their hands.

Axia tapped his side. “Do you want me to help? I’ve still got some mana in me, not much but a few Fire Balls at least.”

Anton tapped Eider’s shoulder. “How many bullets do you have left?”

“About thirty.” Itrez replied.

“Fire only ten more shots, leave twenty. We’ll need them when we advance.”

As the cracks of bullets began to fade, less than a dozen Kamran Beast-kin Levies remained standing. Though it was not saying much. Their bodies were bleeding, riddled with bullets. Barely a breath passed and all but two collapsed. Two gunshots rang out and the last of the Levies were dead.

Industrial warfare. How did those charging the trenches remain sane? Or those shooting back? A lot didn’t.

Another barrage of Icicles rained down upon the stunned Kamran Lamias. So distraught and stunned by the carnage they had not noticed the glowing circle in the sky above them and were decimated. They dropped to the ground and slithered about in chaotic circles, crashing into one another and trying to find cover or relief from the madness that had descended upon them. Anton heard some of the Pakdel Lamias laugh at the sight. By the end he could not see any still standing. Some were probably alive, on the verge of death and utterly bewildered, but alive. Anton wondered how the Pakdels would treat the Kamran’s.

“A perfect display.” Anton gave Eider’s shoulder a gentle pat. “You and your men are to be commended, especially when we get back to Atros."

Eider flashed him a smile. A Cobra's smile was always a little odd, but he could tell she was incredibly stressed; her non-existent lips pulled back to show her fangs, trembling hands gripping the metal barrel and black and red marble stock incredibly tight.

Cetina held her shoulder. “Just remember to breathe. You’ll be fine.”

“My ears hurt.” Eider weekly chuckled. “That’s the worst part.”

She looked at the dead Kamran Levies. “The second worst part.”

“We need to secure the Outpost.” Longinious returned to her Mobile Form. “Despite Axia and Mezot’s devastating magic we still need to physically take it.”

Cetina thoroughly agreed.

“Eider… No. Simin? Sattar? Time for your side to pull your weight. We’ll follow right behind. And don’t destroy or tamper anything. We need to gather anything and everything we can.”

“Really?” Simin asked as she and Sattar issued the orders.

“Absolutely.” Anton watched the Atros soldiers recover their spent bullets. “We want to know what their plans are. They aren’t going to be doing much talking now, so…”

The pair didn’t reply, merely nodded and followed behind their Feral Beast-kin Levies.

Anton waved their soldiers to follow. “No sense in us getting caught in a trap, now is there?”