Chapter Thirty Two : The Return Of The Red Menace or The Lethal Limited Enforcers

So events had been happening fast and furious over the last two days and while I can thankfully say for once that during that time Dragonfirre and the Organization Agents that were travelling with us seemed to never be in immediate danger. Now of course that did not mean our stay so far in the Nexus Plane had been without incident quite the contrary. For while we had tracked down the quite helpful followers of Nodens who had related to us among other things that the whereabouts of the Orb of Sight had changed the revelations did not end there. It seemed that someone had already dealt with the Ugly Thing and its minions and made away with the Orb of Sigh I would be willing to give someone three guesses as to whom had liberated the Orb of Sight but you would only need one. That’s right the Red Menace Kings were on the scene and from how it seemed still on it and trying to takeover while making a profit. So it came to pass that we were soon on the hunt for not only the Orb of Sight but the Red Menace directly into the Nexus region known as the Breadbasket home of Vampires and of course slavery, torture and death. Where the farmers of the land were literally enslaved to the land at bound to the whims of the reputed Seven Families. Which of course did not go over so well with Clean Eugene but seemed well within the law as far as Vadania who I am thinking about calling Deadly Dayna with her cold adherence to unjust enforcers of the law is concerned. We had continued our journey through Breadbasket by first adopting a new mercenary company name the lethal Limited Enforcers and let me just say our emblem and costumes designed by yours truly were sure to strike fear into our enemies as well as bring comfort to those who might seek our services. Of course we elicited a ride with a caravan who just so happened to indirectly be dealing with the Red Menace or those friendly to them and had proceeded through the city of Timyuk on our way to Winter and along the way met the a Sheriff and his Vampire Lord who were happy that we had arrived to deal with their Red Menace problem. So while of course there are many additional details to relate I can thankfully say we arrived at the gates of city of Winter where we would be seeking the Winter Provider purveyor of bottled mushrooms which could only have come from Emerald. Rest assured all will be revealed in painstaking yet loving detail so relax and enjoy.

While I thought I had been picking up positive energy from the Pawn known as Sir Montague in reality it was more like his power source for what I had been really picking up was the emanations of a Construct who had never truly known life as I knew it. Which when I thought about it I realized why their offer to the Hyborians to give up their souls had been firmly rejected by the religious hierarchy. Even their form which looked Humanoid was only a form they resembled in order to allow the Humanoids with which they interacted to feel more at ease. So after coming to that realization I realized that our Pawn would not doubt have information about the Nexus dimension that might just be useful since in reality he had been present since its creation. This was how I ended up acquiring a map of Nexus with all of the major settlements as well as the easy way to return to Emerald. For it seemed on only had to sail off in the right direction and you would end up in one of four different realities. Of course North West from whence we had arrived led to Emerald while South East would take us back to the remains of Hyboria which I found they called Hyperboria. It was also worth noting that the dimension of the Chessman was called Solstice and lay to the South West. Now there also seemed to be a mystery dimension which led to a realm known as Estaton of which our friendly Pawn knew next to nothing about. Which of course led to realize that plane might very well hold mysteries that we might just need to figure out. I was also with his assistance able to confirm something ironic which happened to be something concerning or Organization Agent friends. They all seemed to be descendants of Hyboria no doubt somewhere around Olympian influenced Argos. This in itself explained a lot which I chose to share with Swami Donnie since I felt he needed to be made aware of his history now that both he and his Agents were being supplied with living breathing proof. This of course led to me inquiring to our Pawn about our task at hand and the location of the Nodens worshippers and anyone he might know or be aware of who might be able to help us contact them since they seemed to have information we needed which I had hoped would lead to the Orb of Sight. Believe it or not the person he mentioned and recommended was someone we had already met Marcos the Ogre who hung around the Vault. So as we prepared to leave I began to realize something which at the time struck me as odd, why were the elves even here if they had only been here for around a thousand years.

So on our way back to the Vault I opened my mind and started to sense for Elves for while it seemed we were a little out of the loop regarding the thought of the Hyborians who had lives through the ravaging of our world it there were any Elves here than they might very well remember. Since really a normal Elf could live over a thousand years and so I figure it should not be that hard to find someone who might know more. So while the others followed me I had filled in Swami Donnie on what was going on as relating a similar but downgraded story to Gizmo Dent and Mack Daddy who I had realized ironically were decedents of Argos I should have know it from their skin tone. I needed to find an Elf with whom I was sure would have information that we might need. I also realized that there indeed must have been more to the events than met the eye for while My Mother had no doubt escaped with many Elves to the Feywild what kind of Elves would have been left or chosen to stay behind. I really did not have to think long as I looked at our stunningly attractive no doubt stuck up Favored Soul Vadania who wore an Athena Medallion proudly. I really did not fell comforted by the fact that while she was not a Priest of the Pantheon but a Favored Soul dedicated to the Olympians that she would have the skills we needed. Don’t get me wrong I was trying not to have anything against her but I realized that the faith of Athena was indeed a harsh one. Athena Goddess of wisdom, crafts, civilization, and course war, let’s not forget she is also the patron of judges and constables and embracer of Law in its purest forms so shall we just say I have not always seen them in the best light. So I could therefore reason why many Elves might have stayed behind for loyalty or perhaps even love but I planned to see if our Favored Soul embraced Aphrodite who in reality stood above all of the Olympians and I told myself I would reserve judgment until I had more information. As I walked I noticed a number of Elves but basically only on the street and then I found what I was looking for a giant ceramic tree house with an Elf inside. While Slick Rick had mentioned shopping it seemed that Mickey the Torch was still a little wary of the Chickamazee but in reality I realized he was just trying to get me to move along such lack of patience that one. I will also admit that I was still getting acquainted to my new friend my Ring of Sustenance which I should call by its name Angelica. Just for the record I am not losing my mind my newly acquired Ring was in reality an Item Familiar which while not the most intelligent truly only slightly above average unlike my friends I could say that it was one hundred percent loyal and in addition to enhancing my perception it also had expanded my mind where now I could pierce the minds of others at will if I wished. So upon entering the shop while I did not attempt to pierce the mind of the Elf who seemed to be running an operation called Potions, Lotions, and Notions seemed at the very least intriguing. Well it was a complete bust regarding information regarding the past for it seemed from what I was able to deduce from the Elven proprietor who had only been running the shop for a few months was that more time had passed than just one millennium more like three which meant that if the Elves who had come here in the first place were the cast offs than it made sense that give or take and assuming hard times he was no doubt sixth generation and did not even have knowledge of magic. As a matter of fact which was proven when I had telepathically asked my dark darling and beloved Dirty Anna to check the place for magic and she found nothing stronger than sweet water. In addition the proprietor had informed me that due to inclement weather his shop had only stood for thirty years or so which allowed me to come to the conclusion there was not need to continue wasting our time. So it was time to leave and I realized perhaps with the exception of a few the natives would be useless to us and as always we were on our own. So focused yet disappointed and my anger consoled by Angelica I led us back to the scene of the previous nights escapades the interdimensional inn known as the Vault.

We arrived at the outskirts of the Vault in search of Marcos the Ogre and the sight we beheld was about what I had expected. The entire inn was surrounded by Chimpanzee and black armored men. Marcos was sunning himself on a rock about two hundred feet away but as he had said if we needed him he would be near the Vault and he was not wrong. I approached him and got right to the point the Nodens and where they could be found. It seemed that indeed Marcos was the right person in which to inquire as in short order he was able to fill us in on the Nodens and their three local sects. There was of course a Female Society which seemed to be quite elite and secretive. In addition to the Seasonal Society which it seemed was heavily influenced by festivals and the Elder Things. So while Sir Montague had informed us about the Nodens Elder Things and I truly thought it to be a worthwhile lead the fact that introductions as well as the random festivals made locating them not our best option. So when he began to speak of the Golden Horn Society which it seemed while located about two miles away was always open for business seemed to be out most logical choice. Upon further inquiry I was able to acquire the name of a female Acolyte named Escaron who he recommended that we speak with. In regards to the temple complex itself he let us know that we would recognize it by the four surrounding towers and a lamp shaped structure which they surrounded. For good measure as well as prodding from Dragonfirre I also asked if he had any information regarding an object that was being watched over by the Duke which he and a number of his order had failed to acquire. Marcos could only add that he was aware of a legendary object being held in the Reliquary he called it that he was aware was guarded by a fearsome creature. For his efforts since it seemed for whatever reason he seemed to work for free I asked him to keep this between us and offered him a gold piece for his trouble. On our way to the Golden Horn Society I stopped by the bizarre sized outdoor restaurant and picked up drinks and snacks for the Organization since I realized a walk of two miles while not really that much for natives of Hyboria would no doubt be an experience for our Argos Hyborian descendants.

As we had made our way to the Golden Horn Society as I kept up a telepathic link with Dragonfirre, Swami Donnie as well as my dynamic duo Gizmo Dent and Mac Daddy we ran into a little trouble. While I will admit I was pleased to have Angelica with me to help me deal with my feeling regarding the loss of the Associate which still plagued me I could feel myself growing cold inside. So while I no longer felt the unending pressure of my sexual appetite I was suddenly made aware of something else which was that I actually enjoyed it perhaps to explore the sheer physical aspect of the whole ordeal would be an exciting thing to pursue. I also had to admit It was not hard to notice how hard Smiling Ed kept looking at my beloved Dirty Anna as she walked down the street. It also seemed that the other Organization Agents with the exception of Swami Donnie, Gizmo Dent, Mac Daddy and Smiling Ed were focused on our new attractive demure yet perfectly poised sexual man trap Vadania and I realized that perhaps I had found her name as she reminded me of spider inviting and seductive and the infamous line “Welcome to my parlor said the spider to the fly.”. That name was Deadly Dayna and with her lovely long hair, picture perfect eyes as well as her elegant delicate body well if her devotion to Athena was any indication then bringing war was also part of that package. To put it lightly they all seemed to be in awe of the new girl as it were and her mild mannered act had them ready to eat out of the palm of her hand. Not that I was worried but still I had my concerns about anyone devoted to Athena as I had often found them to be to devoted to their own sense of justice for their own good. So sure I was still keeping an ice cold mask on my face as befit the new role I was preparing myself to assume. Of course I relaxed my gaze whenever I spoke with someone but I was focused on maintaining a studied demeanor and saving my fun loving and adventurous self for evenings with my beloved Dirty Anna perhaps Clean Eugene and perhaps a few others of my choosing. I had also devoted enough energy to focusing on my companions with my Mindsight so I would not have to deal with anyone straying off as my darling Dirty Anna had done earlier that very morning. So when Swami Donnie had informed me that he had sensed a presence but could not lock it down and that presence was no doubt psionic like did not exactly worry me but I did put me on edge and I asked him to keep an eye out for us. Of course moments later when Hawkeye Allen had suddenly stopped moving I stopped everyone and as I looked to him and asked him telepathically if he was ok while simultaneously asking Swami Donnie to check on him with Hawkeye Allen’s mental confirmation as well as Swami Donnie’s that all was well we moved on. We then approached the Temple of the Golden Horned Society and it was indeed a intriguing structure which matched the description given to us by Marcos and I relaxed my cold exterior for a warmer and more provocative posture as the curtain was about to rise and perhaps it things did not work out I figure I could always sick Deadly Dayna on them.

Each of the four towers surrounding the lamp like temple complex were over thirty feet tall and topped by minarets and were staffed by personnel of varying intellect but only one possessed a woman who was standing in a guard like posture outside one of the towers. I could sense others inside the temple proper but I felt it best to be respectful so I moved our group toward to woman in question. All of the members of the Golden Horn Society seemed to be wearing silver chain and helms while the woman I had approached her hair long and whitish blond wore two golden horns at her waist. It turned out that she was exactly who we had been looking for as she was indeed Escaron and she actually had been waiting for us to arrive. I telepathically confirmed with Dragonfirre if they felt it best to move forward with caution or directness and while my vote would have been directness I was glad to find that all of them with the exception of Deadly Dayna were with me. While perhaps at the time I might have felt it worthy to devote some time to Deadly Dayna. I truly did not see the value as she was proving to be as haughty and as stuck up as most followers of the sect of Athena for the world of Hyboria had not been one to welcome law the path of Ares had actually gained more of a following. So I moved on and began our discussion with her with questions about the nature of Nodens the faith this establishment which bore a striking resemblance both in sight and smell what with all of the incense of Iranastan. I could see that it seemed to be having a calming on my Dirty Anna of which I was glad. Acolyte Escaron then began with only the slightest prodding to explain the difference between the other Elder Gods and the one she followed. She basically stated the while Nodens did not exactly fight the other Elder Gods at every turn his faith was more opposed to them on purely philosophical reasons. She of course added some additional fluff concerning the power of her deity but then again who wouldn’t. So while she stated that the other Elder Gods believed in a state of primordial chaos or it seemed to me actually entropy. For she then stated that they tended to seek the absolute destruction of everything and had no use for the things that Nodens embraced being beauty, fairness, trust and safety. So alright perhaps not at their collective throats but in reality it seemed close enough to me to mean we could consider them allies and at the very least not enemies.

Therefore in short order I had relayed what we were seeking in regards to the Orb of Sight which was said to be guarded by an Ugly Beast and Escaron replied by giving us news that literally broke my calm. For the next thing she exclaimed was that the Prelate had come to her about a month ago with knowledge she claimed came from a vision. It seemed we had been expected and Escaron informed us that the Orb of Sight as well as the Ugly Beast and its minions were not longer in the Reliquary. As a matter of fact the Orb of sight and it guardians had been walked right out and headed to the lands controlled by the Winter Provider by beings from a far away land. So who was the Winter Provider and who had the skill or savvy to just charm the Ugly Beast well it only got better. To begin with the Winter Provider was located in the region known as Breadbasket rumored to be near the town of Winter. To make a long story short the area of Breadbasket is controlled by an organization called the Seven Families who collectively are called the Junta and they keep the peasant populace literally enslaved to the farmland which of course helped explain the inrush of refugees fleeing the region. Well the Winter Provider was actually known for its pickled food which gave me a clue that something by Poseidon was fishy about the Winter Provider. This of course let me to pulling out my sketch pad and already dreading what I would end up painting. So as I applied my brush to the paper and I began to ask her for details from the Prelates vision I just happened to ask if they were wearing red. Which was all she needed to jar her memory and the next thing I had before me was a picture of a Red Menace King. While my mind had already been putting the pieces together suddenly being slapped in the face with the knowledge that the Red Menace might have already acquired the Orb of Sight and even set up business in this realm for reasons known only to them caused me to literally go into a rage worthy of Ares. I fought to contain my fury for I realized that it would not be productive to loss it in front Dragonfirre and the Organization. Still it was a few cold moments and after a few moments I had regained my composure and confirmed with Escaron the Red Menace team had numbered around a dozen. I shared my anger with Swami Donnie just so he could be prepared as well as prepare his Agents for the confrontation that I was sure to come. His anger over once again running into the Red Menace helped to calm me for I realized they had been a thorn in the Organizations side far longer than they had ours and in that fact I was able to find solace. I realized the hunt was once again on for the Red Menace as I had inquired with Escaron about more information on the region known as Breadbasket.

It’s not that I was worried but in reality I wanted to find a way to reach the town of Winter in a fashion that would not give away our presence to the Red Menace. Now of course that was why I had needed information on ways into and out of Breadbasket and additional knowledge of the customs and rituals. So after a short while Escaron informed us of the caravans that traveled from the cities of Breadbasket to Ringtown and back again. She told me she was aware that caravans left and returned on a regular basis and if we travelled to the nearby Market and spoke with a Carl Junior than we could not doubt find a way to join a caravan returning to Winter which of course would lead to the Winter Provider then the Red Menace and finally the Orb of Sight. We could have left and moved out at the moment but I suddenly had a thought. If the Elder Gods had a presence on Emerald unknown to the majority of the natives then perhaps Nodens might as well and if so then the Prelate who had had the vision in the first place might be able to offer additional assistance. I had asked Dirty Anna when we had first arrived to scan the area for magic and she had informed me she sensed relic like power and I figured why not find out if they had any of that power to spare. I of course also wanted to find out more about Nodens for the vague descriptions given from Escaron about the Golden Horn with its ties to beauty and others with ties to War and Mysticism were a little to nondescript for me. Well let’s just say I soon would be blessed with more information than I would have thought possible on Elder God know as Nodens
.
Escaron wasted no time after my request escorting us into the dome like temple complex thru a door that seemed to magically appear before our very eyes. Once inside it resembled many indoor temple complexes I had seen in past. She led us past a number of pews toward a woman standing before an altar who by her attire alone was a sight to behold and which I realized had to be the Prelate. I had mentioned to the others my desire to see the High Priestess since I figured she might be able to aid us with a possible Nodens contact on Emerald but us course as always I had more than just one agenda but I have found that it best to keep the appearance of being focused on only one in order to allow Dragonfirre to keep up. Either way I had the support of Slick Rick and since he is often the hardest sell I had carried on. The Prelate was of dressed in a interesting outfit her dresses train alone was perhaps forty feet and her hat was well I supposed Nodens priestly fashion the folds alone were quite interesting. So after a quick introduction and letting her know we were the ones who had come to receive her vision I got right to the point. I asked her if there were any followers of Nodens on Emerald and I was pleased to find that there were. I of course had followed up with an inquiry on how we might be able to contact them since our goals were along the same to oppose the other Elder Gods who I found out were actually called the Great Old Ones. I was pleased when she gave me a golden horn and informed me when we returned to Emerald if we sought the aid of Nodens and his followers then to blow the horn and aid would come to us. I of course was still looking for more information that I could study to learn more perhaps of the Elder God Nodens and those he often opposed the Elder Gods of which Cthulhu was of course a part so I had asked if she had a book that we could take with us that might aid offer more insight into Nodens. She then reached into folds of her dress from where she had also produced the horn and removed a scroll tube. The Prelate informed me and said “If you ever need to know of Nodens then read the scroll aloud.” Which at the time went right past me for I have never claimed to be big on intuition so I figured I would read it myself just not aloud and find the information I sought. It struck me that so far things had seemed oddly smooth what with visions and such and while I felt perhaps Nodens might very well be an ally of the Gods of Hyboria I was suddenly curious if the Prelate knew of others like ourselves who had been her before seeking similar information. As I had suspected others had come before but of course had never been heard from again. I just needed to hear it for myself for while we chose that moment to depart I figured I would start reading the Scroll of Nodens before we left the temple grounds proper. Oddly I had to admit Dirty Anna seemed more relaxed in the presence of the Prelate then I had ever seen her well of course with the exception of after a mind blowing orgasm which I was already planning of course. So as I had started to read the Scroll of Nodens suddenly I felt reality warp around me and suddenly I felt myself suddenly in two places at once. For while to the others I was still standing among them and had only stopped to stare at the scroll for a moment the reality was far more profound. I had been psychically transported to the realm of Nodens and he stood before me in all his glory he resembled an elderly human male with long white hair, grey bearded yet his limbs and body were still vital and strong he rode in chariot being pulled by Nightgaunts and as he descended from the chariot to stand before me he spoke. “You stand before Nodens to what do I owe this intrusion into my realm.”

Nodens in all of his naked and overwhelming glory stood before me and by Aphrodite was I in Lust. Suddenly it felt as if my ears were being stoked and licked while my already erect breasts were being licked and sucked and I was being penetrated and sodomized simultaneously. Nodens only looked at me and said “Are you alright.” While I could only moan and using all of the concentration I could muster utter “Aphrodite Help Me?” It seemed that Nodens understood my plea and suddenly I could breathe again. I looked up to the well proportioned male Avatar of Nodens as I suddenly had noticed that I had fallen to the ground and he was offering me his right hand to help me up. I realized there was no use in being deceptive and of course there was no need to be for by Aphrodite I did need his help. I needed detailed information about the Elder Gods and the Great Old Ones who were intent on destruction and mayhem. I opened my mind and reached for a link to the Avatar for as always nothing ventured nothing gained and my Mindsight showed me a whole new reality. In the past if one were to ask me what was the most profound and mind altering experience I might have said the sheer complexities of the Moonbeast with its alternate realities and complex science which was so similar to magic that there was very little difference. Now of course that experience led me along the path away from the Abyss and the Cult of Loki as well as my greed towards my love of the Associate, Dirty Anna my new friends and course Aphrodite. I perhaps would have also said that was nothing compared to the revelation from my Mother now a Queen of the Summer Court of the Feywild that everything that had happened so far including the ravaging of Hyboria while not part of her plan had opened the doors for her own accession to near Godhood and the fall of the Seelie and Unseelie Courts. Which of course explained how I had changed and been myself manipulated by my own Mother and learning that I was actually a member of an immortal Elven race know as the Sidhelien among other things which I had already come to terms with as my memories of the decades I had actually already lived came back to me. Along with the burden that lay upon me to make sure that Dragonfirre succeeded against the Elder Gods and defeated them once and for all in order that all that was once Hyboria could live again. Well not too much pressure but all of that paled in comparison to the information that poured into my mind as Nodens had taken me into his embrace and said to me “I will help you.” He had then kissed me and my mind was suddenly awash in and ocean of ideas and knowledge where even my impressive mind was swamped and only the knowledge that the Avatar of Nodens was holding me kept my mind from being washed away and lost forever. The bright side I had gained all of the knowledge I would ever need about the Elder God Nodens and even his adversaries the Great Old Ones of which Cthulhu was a member. The dark side the situation was far worse than I had thought for while I may in the future detail exactly what I beheld the harsh truth was that among all of the Elder Gods only Nodens could be considered an ally and perhaps Shub-Niggurath but that of course is another story for another time. Nodens had let me go and I felt myself coming back to reality and I felt my time with him was coming to an end and as I stood there he smiled at me while remounted his chariot and disappeared as my mind came back to the present and while it had felt to me like I had been gone for ages as I came to myself I realized it had only been moments in the real world. I of course now realized that the Scroll was better suited for someone more attuned to divine energy and I realized it was only my intense training, unique gifts and my determined will that had allowed me such a close and personal connection to Nodens. For in reality the Scroll would enable us to summon a servant of Nodens who would aid us and I realized perhaps the best place for such an encounter would be when we finally faced Cthulhu.

I came to myself and I took a deep breath and while I worked to discipline my posture and demeanor in order to not betray what I had just learned I am not sure if I really managed it. For I had noticed the Dirty Anna seemed to sense that something might be wrong. I spoke in her mind that the Scroll of Nodens was more than just a summoning or knowledge spell but also a direct conduit to Nodens. I had noticed that we were already on our way to the Market and I chose to also relate to the other members of Dragonfirre the nature of the Scroll of Nodens and I then entrusted the Scroll of Nodens into the hands of Slick Rick. I would like to have thought I would have considered offering the Scroll to Deadly Dayna but truthfully I did not yet trust her and she for sure did not so far seem like friend material. As a Favored Soul I would have expected her to have informed us of what she was capable of since was limited in her divine scope but so far she was being just as evasive as Mickey the Torch had been in the past which of course did not bode well with me. Slick Rick took the scroll and placed it into his magical backpack as I had done with the Horn of Nodens and we proceeded to our meeting with Carl Junior.

The building in the market we were looking for was a big red one and it was fairly easy to find as it seemed to be a central hub with many carts moving around busy with loading and unloading cargo. I did not hesitate and moved forward toward a younger man who seemed to be in charge of overseeing the operation and informed him that I needed to see Carl Junior. I asked him where I could find Carl Junior and I was pointed to a store where a clerk approached asking if he could help us with an order. For what it was worth there was a great deal of produce, baked goods, and even prepared foods in the shop. I informed him that we needed to see Carl Junior and at first he looked around like he did not know what to do and oddly his eyes fixed on Deadly Dayna as I quickly spun a tale that we basically were important clients who had important business with Carl Junior and he had better get him if he knew what was smart for him. He quickly spun and led us into the back office to speak with Carl Junior. We were within moment introduced to the quite round and jolly Carl Junior and I quickly began to inquire about his wares and where they came from. He was more than happy to share that six caravans regularly traveled through Breadbasket and Ringtown and that one was even in town now and scheduled to be leaving in the morning. He of course was a salesman and was eager to show us the newest product from the Winter Provider which turned out to be pickled radishes in a mushroom gravy broth. I of course asked to see a bottle and he was more than willing to show it to me and I barely had to look at it or even confirm with Slick Rick that is was artificial which was another nail in the coffin regarding the presence of the Red Menace and them still being in the area. I decided to of course buy a bottle which he said was one gold piece and I offered him one of ours and told him to keep the change since from his perspective they would be ancient coins worth more than their currently minted coins. He was of course happy to sell his first bottle and I used the betterment of his mood to inquire further about the safety of the roads and if the caravans ever hired security. He informed me the Junta employed a division of soldiers who were normally armored in gold and teal and wielded lance like spear guns which from what he described made them feared in the region. With enough information about the local situation I finally inquired about what information he could offer regarding the caravan in town. It seemed that the caravan was run by a Dave of the Red Beard and they were last he had heard staying at Rusty’s Tavern. I asked about his connections and he informed me that while his family was indirectly related to the Seven Families and connected enough to be given special privilege. So while Mickey the Torch made a quick purchase of trail mix I had a quick discussion with my beloved Dirty Anna. I will admit I had been holding on to the hope that the vision of the Prelate of Nodens might have been a prescient vision it seemed by the presence of the mushroom sauce the Red Menace for some reason had established a possible base of operations in a region far from the path to Emerald. I related to Dirty Anna that she had been right and we both were left to ponder just what the Red Menace were up to but I was sure we would find out soon enough. After our long walk through town it was getting late and we still needed to find a place to stay and I still needed to fit in lunch as well find a place to stay for the night and persuade Dave of the Red Beard that we were going to be travelling with him the next morning.

We arrived at Rusty’s Tavern without incident and I was able we could see several wagons secured in the back and there were a number two Elder Thing bouncers outside and around twelve humans inside of which I figured one would be Dave as well as a few other Elder Things and even a few Yith. As we closed on the tavern as if he had been with us all along Clean Eugene began to fade in I felt his mind as he returned to us and I had only informed Dirty Anna as I knew she loved him as I did. Just for the record not the way she loves him more like I love all of Dragonfirre with the exception of Mickey the Torch for the moment at least. Who while I will admit his actions against the Associate were in my mind perhaps to severe I have to wonder if I felt someone who I travelled with at any moment might attempt to kill me whenever he felt the moment was right I would not have waited for a convenient excuse to end them. Harsh I realize but I have come to the realization that anyone who threatens my life or the lives of Dragonfirre will be faced with the cold harsh darkness of death. I digress of course and perhaps if I had not at that moment I might have prevented Deadly Dayna from drawing her long sword in alarm. Meanwhile I had continued on and entered a telepathic conversation with the one of the two Elder Things guarding the door. I decided to leave it to Dirty Anna to calm Clean Eugene or otherwise be ready to observe just how impressive Deadly Dayna really was. My conversation with the Elder Things had to mainly consist of finding out that they were booked for the night and that Dave of the Red Beard was in attendance and he would be summoned to the door to speak with us. I did of course split my concentration to fill in Clean Eugene as to the current situation and that the Elder Things I was talking to were not an immediate threat but I did inform the other to all be on guard since no use to not be prepared. It’s not like I am paranoid but I realized another thing I would miss about my former Associate whose embrace I might never again experience and strangely I suddenly remembered the only passionate kiss we had shared which had seemed ages ago but had only been in reality days. Preventing his death had been one of the major catalysts which had lead me away from the Abyss and I had failed him. Were I a lesser woman I might have broke into tears but crying was for the weak and that was something I was not and as I tapped Widow Maker and sought strength from Angelica I found it and pushed on for the Red Menace could be around any corner and I vowed to Aphrodite to not fail again.

So as Dave came to the door of course the first thing he could not take his eyes off of was of course the three attractive women who stood before him. I could hear Deadly Dayna behind me insulting Clean Eugene behind me I believe she said something about him either being arrogant or serving and arrogant God like Hercules. Either way Dirty Anna seemed to putting the fire our before it could blaze into an inferno while I had a feeling it was only a matter of time before they came to blows on the battlefield or in the bedroom. Since it had not gone unnoticed that Clean Eugene was fond of having his way with Dirty Anna and she seemed more that eager to be the subject of his attentions. While it’s true that I also had my way with Dirty Anna I have often found that making love with a man or a woman can be equally satisfying depending on your partner or for that matter partners. Well back to Dave who was finally looking me in the eyes and of course I gave him one of my best business smile I let him know that Carl Junior had informed us that he was soon to be leaving and would be heading to Winter to visit the Winter Provider. I let him know we were interested in heading up that way and if he minded if we tagged along. He was an easy mark and volunteered that we might need either papers or a good covers story to avoid any trouble with the Breadbasket authorities which was the town we would be stopping in before we arrived at the town of Winter. He asked if that would be a problem for us to have papers and I of course smiled at him and told him not to worry because I would have it covered but I of course did ask him who he might recommend and he had dropped the Breadbasket Embassy as a place to validate papers. Before I left I of course asked him if there was going to be any excitement that evening or if he was looking for any. I of course had given the young man my best alluring glare and raised by succulent breasts a little higher for his benefit. Oddly I noticed that Dirty Anna followed suit and I had to admit I had noticed she was becoming quite the sexual creature almost reminded me of my old self which made me realize we might need to talk later. Meanwhile Dave looked like his world had just come to an end as he stated that the men he travelled with had already partied out and he was committed to them for the rest to the day. So I bid had a fond farewell and let him know we would see him again at first light.

I had considered the Breadbasket Embassy for a brief moment but I figured why not go back to someone who had already served us well so I directed our group back to the Vault and Marcos. I inquired if he could produce papers that could pass a routine check by the authorities of Breadbasket. He asked what kind of papers and I already having a plan informed him a Mercenary Company called Limited Enforcers. He had thought a moment and figured it would make a good cover and asked when I would need the paperwork. I smiled at him and informed him yesterday of course and within a few moments he went off to his room in the Vault in order to put our paperwork together. I truly did not think I needed the best work just something I could build on as I was already designing the outfits which would be black and gold as well as an emblem for our group and I assure you it would be Lethal. Which was of course going to be a catch phrase I would be using for our Mercenary Company and speaking of the emblem it would be a Long Sword and Musket Rifle crossed over in a cross formation behind a field of red flame. My intention was of course to allow our outfits alone to do most of the talking for us as I have often found out when it comes to a cover story often when you look the part it is often assumed that you are what you claim to be. So while I did not expect the others to be able to pull off any fancy conversation we would look the part and I could sell the rest. Marcos returned with the papers and I offered him another gold for his trouble and I could see that while Dirty Anna seemed to be getting excited and for that matter even the Organization Agents the same could not be said for the members of Dragonfirre. I almost had to wonder if they were doubting my abilities but I of course did not let the slow me down. On the contrary it was well past lunch time and as Marcos had mentioned the Falstaff Inn as a fair place to stay I figured why not either way I would find some excitement.

On our way to the Falstaff we passed the Breadbasket Embassy and I had an idea to check them out to get a feel for the region before we entered. I had already altered my appearance and felt confident that I could gain further information but Mickey the Torch had added that perhaps I should keep my eye on the ball. I of course heard him and while I had to admit even thought I was still a bit perturbed at him it was hard to say upset with such a handsome and charismatic man and it caused me to realize that he still cared about me so a agreed and we moved on. The Falstaff was basically a big open pit of an Inn where over one hundred and fifty people were already in attendance. What made the place even more interesting was the way they were serving food which was from trough well at least they were raised and the food seemed fresh which Slick Rick was able to confirm. Of course after looking he told us he would be eating here but not staying the evening. I really could not blame him for after the last night escapades I could understand his desire to fell the presence of the outside world. We were able to acquire three booths and some curtains from the staff with which we were able to construct the appearance of privacy at least. From within confines of our shelter I summoned my shadow servants and set them to preparing our sleeping area and while the others filled their stomachs from the trough I decided it was a good time to enter my trance and leave Angelica to watch over my servants and wake me if there was any trouble.

With the coming night I night I had looked upon Dirty Anna looking unbelievably sexy I mean really a beautiful woman reading a book to gain knowledge not that is a turn on that I could not resist. As a matter of fact I was so turned on that I even invited Gizmo Dent and his partner Mac Daddy over for a little oral satisfaction. I had already been schooling Gizmo Dent but it was time that I worked Mac Daddy into the mix and the fact that their intellects matched their muscle was just an added turn on for me. It had seemed that Dirty Anna wanted to give some oral satisfaction of her own and soon after getting Clean Eugene excited he had thrown her down and began putting using her body as it was meant to. All too soon it was time for everyone else to begin resting and as it seemed that Lucky Ron was not going to be making an appearance I will admit I was getting a little concerned. Either way I still summoned a uniform for him which I conjured from the plane of shadow since as with Clean Eugene I figure he could reappear at any time as I had created the uniforms for the Limited Enforcers and they were Lethal. Speaking of Lethal it seemed that while I was informing everyone of which watch they would be on Dirty Anna decided it was time to turn up the Daughter of Hell meter a few notches. For what she did next in full sight of Clean Eugene as well as Deadly Dayna was start speaking in a dark and organic language as a perverse aura of evil magic began to fill the air and within moments Death Dealer which had exploded the day before was suddenly engulfed in black and red flames and was fully restored. I had witnessed the entire affair and I was shocked as the dark orgasmic hellish energies tried to rip away her life force yet she resisted and the magic had obeyed her command. As I looked at her she seemed pleased and happy while I am sure she might have red shock and fear well the shock part was correct but the fear part was more of a memory from my past. I focused instead on the present as I realized just what Dirty Anna was allowing to happen to herself the magic she had just shaped was something I had never seen before so of course shock on the other had from the looks she had gained from both Clean Eugene as well as Deadly Dayna who looked at her as if she was some evil spawn that needed to be destroyed I could only stand there and feel sad for her and then of course angry. Angry because while I had always known my Father was evil I had never held it against him and by the Gods the things I had seen and the Unseelie Court and at certain dark Loki Rituals of which I had participated in I was not one to speak against her but I knew the ways of the world. A priest of Thor had destroyed my Father just because he was evil before even giving him the chance to redeem himself. I feared if Dirty Anna was not carful then she might suffer a similar fate and that was something that I did not want to live through again. As we spoke about it I did not withhold my concern we had a conversation where I asked her what had she done and kind of magic she was using. She had exclaimed it was a priestly make whole spell with I assured her it was most certainly was not and I had inquired if it was in reality soulfire and she had answered it was in reality done through her infernal power. I realized the truth of it that she had just manipulated an infernal curse and it by chance had worked when in reality it could have failed and harmed her grievously. I looked to my beloved and I asked her “Is this where you wish to be. Is this truly the path that you seek?” She had responded “It’s too late for me.” I almost exploded as I exclaimed “It’s never too late!” Then I looked at her and while I knew she enjoyed the power that flowed through her veins and the temptation to use it I am sure was near irresistible and so I had asked her “How much are you going to take?” I knew her hope was still to use the powers of Hell for good but in reality did she really believe she could pull it off I really didn’t think she was smart enough but I did have to commend her for trying with sheer force of personality. I knew she needed to rest but I also knew she had awful dreams so I had told her “You need to rest my beloved.” She had responded that “It’s not going to help much.” “Besides I don’t want too.” The little pout on her elegant face was adorable and I smiled at her and hugged her and told her “I told her she would be alright I am her and I would protect her.” She had started to cry and said something about me needed to sleep and I told her that I would be fine and I allowed my shadow servants to prepare our bed so that we floated to the ground as I held her and she cried herself to sleep. Besides the tossing and turning and moaning of my beloved as she slept which I had concealed with a zone of silence spell the night thankfully passed without further incident.

Before my beloved had awoke I had already placed the tattoo’s of power upon our bodies and I had already had my servants prepare a bath with fresh water I had created myself and heated with the assistance of a shadow fire elemental in a tub I had shaped from nearby wood. We had bathed and I had reapplied her makeup and I could tell that she was once again suffering the pain of her choice to bind herself to the infernal energies that I knew were changing her daily. I noticed that in the morning the Clean Eugene had while not confronting her know was eyeing her with suspicion and of course Lucky Ron had still not reappeared from wherever he had vanished to. My servants were busy getting everyone else ready in their new black and gold Limited Enforcer gear and I had to admit they looked great and just wait until Dirty Anna saw our outfits for while the men’s outfits were all custom fitted and designed to either show off their assets or enhance those best left hidden our outfits were another story altogether. We looked like elegant deadly dancers and our outfits hugged every curve and left nothing to the imagination quite a good job I had to say. I was happy to see Dirty Anna cheer up as her outfit was literally wrapped around her as was mine. Both Deadly Dayna and Clean Eugene were able to alter their glamored armor to match the Limited Enforcer design and after breakfast once Slick Rick had rejoined us I had even convinced him to alter his equally glamored armor to match our outfits but his of course as befit or Guardian became white and red and shall I say when you added the Sword and Musket emblems do I even need to say it we looked Lethal.

As we had walked back to the Rusty’s Tavern I had managed two conversations on with Dirty Anna with whom I was concerned about for I believed with all the magic at our command I could not believe the only way she could sate herself was with the blood of the recently dead. Sadly she told me from all she knew until she had gained more power and the ability to create some kind of dimensional sanctum then she would just have to endure it. Meanwhile I was curious how Slick Rick’s night had passed and while he had stayed in range of my Mind Sight I had left him to find peace in the outdoors as it were. He informed me as I had been aware that before sunrise the Chickamazee were busy cleaning up the streets and I had to admit they did a fantastic job for abominations. I also figured it was someone’s cruel joke no doubt to enable the liberation of the gnomes who seemed to be running around free instead of serving as they were born to do. I put those thought aside as we arrived at Rusty’s Tavern and I could see Dave who his crew it seemed were calling simply Red and waved to him. He was surprised and impressed by our new look and I could tell the businessman in him was ready he had already prepared to of the sedans who were already hitched to swift oxen and we split up into two teams one for each wagon. Mickey the Torch, Slick Rick, Clean Eugene, Swami Donnie, Hawkeye Allen, and Ace were in the first wagon. While Deadly Dayna, Dirty Anna, Starving Marvin, Gizmo Dent, Smiling Ed, Mac Daddy, and I were in the second. After conferring with Red I found out we would be travelling through Timyuk and then on to Winter and with that settled we had moved out. It took of course over an hour to escape Ring Town but soon we were on the open road and that was when things thanks to Clean Eugene and not Deadly Dayna as I would have expected began to get interesting.

I had been able to deduce as were even once we left the city still been moving slowly that we were not doubt expecting to be stopped as was not doubt customary. I was glad to see that both Smiley Ed and Starving Marvin had concurred with my hypothesis. We had to wait another hour and then we say them and they were actually riding horses the first we had seen. What we saw the drew my attention were the riders on the horses were in the gold armor and they even seemed to be holding the lance like projectile weapons we had been told to expect. Let me not forget there were also a few other men in black leather with whips and they were working over a hundred plus humans in the fields and of course they were all chained up. Now of course a few riders rode up to us and stopped at the first wagon and asked our business and they were directed to our wagon and they were speaking of needing to see our papers. Well I did not like the look of the so called Breadbasket militia so I fell back on our appearance and informed him we were the Limited Enforcers on our way to offer aid to either Timyuk or Winter and I had informed him as I had shown him our number and our matching outfits the I did not really think he needed to see our papers and he agreed and had started to ride back to his other associates. We might have made it past them but of course as we rode closer it became apparent just how enslaved the peasant farmers were to the land. For in the distance we could see a few hung from trees obviously dead and even a few still chained to each other as they all were by the way also dead. I suddenly saw with the aid of my Mindsight that Clean Eugene had jumped from their wagon and I asked Slick Rick and Mickey the Torch what was going on and I was informed that Clean Eugene was stepping out to deal with the slavers. Mickey the Torch wanted me to summon him a horse and I told him I would not since it was a waste while Slick Rick said he would take care of it and I could feel him mind leave the wagon as well. By Ares what the Hell I thought were we going to just start killing the guards before we even got to Timyuk well I guess I should have realized that with a Paladin of Freedom of Hercules no less his code would not allow him to stand by while the personal liberty of the peasants was being threatened much less being whipped or hung to death. I knew what was coming next and my face darkened as I called the shadows to me and vanished and moved to the back of the wagon to see what would transpire. I of course had also pulled my Rail Gun from my Backpack of Containment and set my aim over the shoulder of Clean Eugene. What had transpired was in truth a massacre for Clean Eugene had walked among them using his bow, club as well as his riding skill and dispatched all but two of the guards and their slavers meanwhile Slick Rick had with the ease of a Warden of Nature called down moisture from the air and created a lance of ice that had literally unhorsed and slew one that had tried to get away. For what it was worth which in truth was nothing they had tried to fight back with their projectile lances and by sword but really what chance did they have. Which had left only one and from the distance I could see that moments later Clean Eugene was releasing the peasants after stopping at each man he and Slick Rick had slain not doubt claiming whatever possessions they had for the peasants and within seconds they were free and running toward Ringtown where true freedom awaited them. I felt the moment coming for Clean Eugene was going to spare one of them and while he had altered his attire when he had left the sedan would it really matter perhaps not which meant I could not let there be any survivors. I took a deep breath and calmed myself as Clean Eugene and Slick Rick had mounted horses they had obtained from the soldiers of Breadbasket who obviously would not be needing them anymore took careful aim with the Rail Gun and shot him through the head. He fell to the ground instantly and Clean Eugene needed never know and as I replaced my Rail Gun into my backpack I allowed the shadows to fade and prepared a smile for when Clean Eugene and Slick Rick returned to us.

I knew that what we had done might now have repercussions but I would just have to deal with them and I related mentally what I had done to Slick Rick prepared to face any judgment he might impose but he seemed to understand that is was necessary. He did advise me to not reveal my actions to Clean Eugene since he told me he had promised him his life and while I did not understand it I had to admire Clean Eugene for the act of kindness he had just performed for the former slaves even while dispensing justice Hercules style. I thought for a moment that I might need to have a talk with Dave who I had noticed had withdrawn a spyglass as had Dirty Anna and like my beloved watched everything for he had stopped the caravan. He did not look pleased and after informed Clean Eugene to lose the horses he had strode right up to Dave and given him a piece of his mind and soon enough we were on our away again. Sadly Deadly Dayna was running her mouth condemning Clean Eugene for his arrogance and I almost lost my temper and let Widow Maker shut her up but Dirty Anna was trying to persuade her to calm down the reasons for which eluded me. I had looked to Dirty Anna and asked her why she even bothered it was not like Deadly Dayna was a Priestess of the Pantheon she was a Favored Soul and to let her be. I could tell she must have felt she owed Deadly Dayna respect where in my mind respect was often reserved for those who proved they earned it or were my friends and so far I was not impressed. How she had warped from the soft spoke demure elven maiden to a loud foul mouthed tart in less than day was beyond me. I could tell it was going to take some work to befriend to newest addition to Dragonfirre and I was beginning to wonder if I even wanted to. Either way after Dave had been thoroughly intimidated we made good time and within a an hour of nightfall we had reached the town of Timyuk.

Timyuk was ironically nothing more than a rest stop with barely enough time to water the oxen and drop off and pick up supplies. Of course what actually happened was due to the odd manners of the clerk and his Administrator who had strange questions about our Fathers of which I picked up the best answer was where he was supposed to be. Dirty Anna and Deadly Dayna were asked as well but thankfully they were evasive as well and with Clean Eugene standing next to his new buddy Dave we were soon ushered out of Timyuk to be on our way. It seemed the Administrator did not want a powerful group of Mercenaries like the Limited Enforcers in his town and I am sure it would have been Lethal. So with Dave unable to give away any concern we had we were soon packed up and on our way to Winter. Which of course I realized meant a night on the road but I was alright with that for it meant anyone travelling behind us with news of what they may had thought we might have done would stand a better chance being behind us by morning.

As we rode off had ridden off I took the time to enter my trance so that I would be refreshed for the entire night to come and to honest I had plans for the evening and I was going to give Deadly Dayna another chance to show me she could let her hair down and relax. Dirty Anna still had her eyed glued to that book and I was getting horny as all hell and it was not even from my body reacting to her it was my mind. Clean Eugene had decided to ride with Dave in the lead cart and I could tell from the others of his caravan that they were angry to be still travelling at night and have to camp on the road. Of course Clean Eugene worked his charm and of course his purse and spoke with each of the upset men and I could see he was giving each of them a gold piece which of course lightened their spirits and soon the wagons were circled watches were set my shadow servants summoned and it was time to get the party started. The others were sleeping mostly outside since my servants had prepared a quite elegant arrangement for everyone one but the one I was looking for my beloved and sexy Dirty Anna was still inside the wagon and planning to rest inside. Well I figured she had read and brooded long enough I telepathically spoke to Gizmo Dent, Mac Daddy and Smiling Ed and informed them that I and Dirty Anna had suffered through a rough day and that tonight was their lucky night for I needed their help to cheer up Dirty Anna. They were of course more than willing to aid me of course I mean it’s not like they could have resisted me and after the teasing I had give them the night before I knew they were primed and ready Smiling on the other had I knew had been staring at Dirty Anna in a new way ever since she had told him he could hold her tighter as they rode together on one of my steeds. Well that night was going to be Smiling Ed’s lucky night for he was going to have the pleasure of giving Dirty Anna his own ride. I informed the others to follow me into the wagon and follow my lead and informed them that when they saw me stripping Dirty Anna cloths that was their sign to remove their own cloths and the party would be able to begin. I needed the release for I still was missing my oldest and departed friend who I had only called in the end my Associate and let me not even get into the whole Nodens experience as well as the pain of having ended a life as well as the irritating temper of Deadly Dayna who I just wanted to pump full of hot explosive white phosphorous bullets as she had of course declined my invitation to join us. By Poseidon why had I even bothered but that was behind me at that moment and what was in front of me was what I desired and as I removed her book from her hand and removed my outer clothing I began to kiss her and within moments I was pealing her cloths away from her body as I telepathically informed the boys that the time was now. With Dirty Anna’s new sexual skill and my own honed over years of practice and our Organization Agents I was able to orchestrate a sexual masterpiece which fed my hunger, anguish and pain and turned it into bliss, joy, and enlightenment. After two hours they were sadly all exhausted and thanks to vitality granted to me by Angelica I was ready to rise and take my watch. Well in reality I did not actually have to leave the wagon to be on watch and in reality it was not even my watch but as I could be on all of them I kept myself alert as believe it or not we were in Red Menace territory.

I sensed their minds as they approached one was undead an augmented one which meant Vampire and the other was human but barely. For as I cast out with my mind to Clean Eugene who was on watch with Mickey the Torch he confirmed my concerns we were dealing with a Paladin of Tyranny or more commonly called by Paladins of Freedom and Anti Paladin. What set him off was that he stunk about as bad as the lair of the Glaaki so alright I will admit I had smelled worse but I will save that tale for perhaps another time. My shadow servants were waking everyone and Clean Eugene had told me that the Rider was known to Dave as we the supposed Sheriff. He rode a dark hellish steed which resembled a Nightmare and as Dirty Anna awoke and seemed to be checking herself to see if she was all there I informed her of what was happing as I stepped outside the sedan to see to or early morning encounter with a Vampire. Well if for no other reason I know knew why the men in the caravan might have been worried about camping outside. The Sherriff had of course wondered why Dave had not stayed in Timyuk for the night and I had stepped right up and informed him that was our fault we were in a hurry to reach Winter. He of course had asked who we were and I informed him we were the Lethal or shall I say Limited Enforcers only Lethal to those who cross us and asked how we could be of service to the Sherriff. He almost seemed to laugh for either he had seen through my story or it was just that good that he was impressed either way he let us know he was seeking trouble makers who were skulking about in his jurisdiction. I sensed the opening and took it and inquired if they happened to wear red uniforms and he said they did indeed. Well I then informed him that they were enemies of ours and if he or any of his deputies got wind of their whereabouts or needed back up in putting them down we would be more than happy to oblige. He had seemed pleased and even stated giving a long glare at Clean Eugene who was already returning his glare but thankfully holding his ground that we did not seem the skulking type anyway. He then related to us that it was almost sunrise and it was time for him and the Count to depart. Of course Deadly Dayna was venting and carrying on about Clean Eugene again and I swore if she blew this for us I was going to put her back in ice until we needed her. There was no need for as the Sheriff had said it was almost sunrise and his Count the Vampire who had hung back around one hundred feet would soon no longer have the advantage. Which of course meant we had a little while to prepare ourselves for the next day and as I looked to Dirty Anna I could see she was once again dreading sleep but I would have to find a way to get her to rest it was for her own good after all.

So soon we would arrive in the town of Winter and begin our investigation into the Winter Provider and its connection to the Red Menace Kings. We still had not to my satisfaction settled the matter of how things needed to change now that the Associate had passed or concluded the need for an established Leader. While I had stepped up and started to take charge I would still take counsel from the others as a good leader should. Lucky Ron had still not returned from wherever had had gone and I missed him I could have really used his friendship and counsel. Of course the main reason why was the brooding war I felt about to spring up any moment between Clean Eugene and Deadly Dayna who I still had not learned much about. Was it the whole Athena persona she seemed to embrace perhaps but I would have to find a way to rise above it for it seemed that no one else was going to step up and do it? For if we were going to soon be facing the Red Menace who by all rights possessed the Orb of Sight as well as a host of Ugly Guardians who were a wild card for sure who once guarded the Orb of Sight we did not have much time. I of course knew that Dragonfirre were people of action and as Mickey the Torch had said so bluntly I needed to keep my eye on the ball. So come morning I was going to have to perhaps have it out with Deadly Dayna known still as Vadania Amakiir and for the love of Aphrodite I hoped to keep Widow Maker in her holster. Now of course that left the whole Nodens affair of which I had not even revealed to Dirty Anna or Slick Rick which of course only stood to confirm that I needed a break or actually luck and I could not wait for the return of Lucky Ron but I will remember the words of wisdom he shared with me if the Gods or my Comrades will not help me the I will find the way myself. One way or another the Great Old Ones are going down and it was going to be Lethal.