Post by hurdy13 on Aug 27, 2020 12:51:39 GMT -5
Starting with Sorrow
Flashes and bubbles instantly surrounded Oro Midas, making him drop the knife and fish he was handling. The bass began to float up past his face but could barely get his senses about him due to the ringing in his ears. He quickly gathered himself and opened his eyes, seeing clouds of red pouring from his friends and family. Long spears and arrows pierced the surface around them as underwater charges seemed to be going off below.
The humans had struck at night, using the charges to illuminate the water and see where the fishman hid. They followed up by attacking with spears and projectiles while their prey was disoriented. Midas had been preparing some bass he caught upriver earlier, their settlement was underneath a tributary that lead into the ocean. This provided safe travel upstream to get resources from inland and still have the safety of water. The main camp was dug into the cliff where a cliff met the ocean. It was a great spot and allowed the Fishman to have access to river and sea safely, something Midas would miss. He was unsure how the humans had found them, but wondered if Augusto or Leon had anything to do with it.
“Dive! Go deep and protect the children!” Yelled Midas to the elder fishman he was helping cook. He himself had trained his life for this and began to head towards the human boats. He dodged spears and arrows on his way up, and noticed his fellow warriors joining him. They had lost a fourth of their numbers in the initial surprise, but the humans would have a tough time now that they had their attention…
The Fishman regrouped under the main ship, there were three in total. The charges were coming from the smaller ships while the arrows rained down from the shore and main craft.
“Midas, Leon, Augusto… Caiman, Jamo and the three masters. We have more than enough warriors to wipe these humans from our waters.” The water around Master Fi seemed to surge as he spoke, but that simply could have been Midas’ admiration playing tricks on him. All he knew of the fishman karate arts, he learned from Fi. There were other masters but Fi lead the school and was the toughest warrior despite his age, the ocean truly loved him.
“Alright, me and Mast09er Shi will take the charge boat on the left, and Masters Gon and Rei will take the charge boat on the right. Strike from the water and try not to board, it’ll be dangerous with their explosives.
Midas, you lead the rest up the main ship and begin to clear the deck. Once the charge boats are taken care of we’ll rendezvous on your position. These humans have taken enough of our people today, no one else shall fall! Move!”
At his command Master Gon and Rei headed to their target, Gon swam under the ship and began to use a whirl pool technique to draw the boat under as Rei would hit it with wave to put out any fire. Midas took the students around to the back of the ship, the of them swimming in tight formation.
“Don’t be scared, just kill them. Remember your techniques and stick close to each other.” Midas more so commanded than spoke. Augusto was angry and fired up, and Midas’ words only stoked him. Leon too was angry, but knew his brother would put himself at risk if he lost focus. Caiman and Jamo swam up to Midas, they were the same age as him but knew their place. Outside of the masters, Midas was the strongest of their tribe.
“Listen, Midas once we’re on deck what’s the plan? Humans may be weak but they aren’t stupid, we need to be prepared.” Midas’ head fin twitched at Jamo’s inquiry, what didn’t he get?
“Grab a human and crush it Jamo, I don’t know what else to tell you. Now come on, here.”
Midas led them around the rudder and launched out of the water, grabbing the hanging ropes where the life boats should have been. Midas in his anger hadn’t noticed, and continued to climb, his men behind him. At last, he vaulted over the railing his golden scales flickering and shimmering in the torch light.
At that moment, both charge boats exploded, rocking the main ship violently. The Fishman onboard were thrown off their feat, Midas slide and grabbed the railing catching a glimpse of the carnage below. He felt the heat the on his facial scales, as black smoke poured up from the charge boats. The water was black with some substance, but it seemed to stick on anything it touched. Midas could make out his masters in the muck, trying to breath through the black gunk stuck all over their bodies. He couldn’t tell who was who, and had to look away due to the heat, turning he saw the humans.
They weren’t on the ship however… they were all on the shore armed with bows. They archers drew their bows, the tips alight with fire. “The water will prevent most of the burning, we’ll recover the bodies and get that gold. Men, cut off their escape.” As the commander ended his sentence, the archers let loose. The flaming arrows pierced the sky, like specks of gold and ignited the black oil on the water.
“NOOO” Yelled Midas, who ran to the edge to jump in. He was stopped by Augusto who tackled him under the second barrage of flaming arrows. The desk of the main ship was beginning to catch. Midas peered over once more at the water below, but this time saw only fire.
“Midas what do we do? This was a trap!” Caiman yelled as he looked around fearfully. The Golden Dorado fishman were pinned down on the deck. They had cover from the archers for the moment. Midas tried to clear his head but the death of his people kept him from focusing, he could only see his master burning.
“Listen, we need to get to land. It’ll be a far jump but we can make it to the cliff. We need to take out the archers!” Jamo’s words hit the group, but rolled off of Midas. The masters were dead, and he needed to lead. Jamo uttered a plan, and then again shaking Midas to make sure he heard.
“ Yea, Yea lets do it. I’m here now. Lets get these the filthy humans.” Midas clenched his fist as the next volley of arrows came. He poked his head up and saw the archers drawing. “They’re about to fire again, as soon as the arrows are over head, charge them!”
The humans let fly, and the Fishman attacked. Leon, the fastest of the group quickly tore across the deck. Jamo was behind him followed by Midas, Kaiman and Augusto, who were all neck and neck. Leon and Jamo were in the air when the Commander ordered the next volley loose.
With a shout, Jamo was knocked from the air, three arrows protruding from his chest as he fell into the burning water below. Leon made it across and immediately took out two archers with chops to the neck. Midas and Augusto were in the air when he heard Kaiman drop to the deck behind him. Landed on their feet, Midas an Augusto joined Leon in the slaughter.
They didn’t have weapons but their techniques were vicious paired with their inhuman strength, and humans so soft at that. “Golden Tide: Shark Breaching” shouted Midas as he shattered a man’s ribcage with his palm. It was a technique he had developed for Augusto, whose raw power needed an outlet. The next victim raised his sword and slashed down at Midas, who turned and let the blade fall into the earth. He threw a quick jab and broke the mans face. Turning, he saw Leon finish the last of the men, using his Piranha Feasting technique. It was a flawless execution, but Leon’s forms were always perfect.
With the enemies taken care of Midas turned back to the ship, to Kaiman. Who was hanging on to the railing. He had 2 arrows in his chest and one in his shoulder, and wouldn’t be able to make the jump; the ship crumbled around him.
“Go Midas, you three must survive!” With a plume of fire and smoke, the ship collapsed, taking Kaiman with it into the burning depths. The three looked at each other briefly before running tin to the woods for cover. They cut west and made for the river, not seeing any other humans on the way. Once they submerged in the water the emotions began to flow. Augusto began to weep, and Leon put a hand on his shoulder for comfort. Midas wanted to cry, wanted to explode really in anger and sadness, but he couldn’t show weakness, not now.
“Lets rest here tonight, we’ll check out the site tomorrow. It’s still burning and there’s no way for us to get there now. After you calm down, the fatigue will hit. I’ll take first watch.” He swam closer to the brother and pushed all their heads togethers. He then left the brothers to console each other, he needed to check the surface. He popped his head out within the reeds by the bank, they were tall and it was still dark which provided great cover. He saw the flickering of fire through the trees, more humans going to investigate? Perhaps they are back up warriors.. Thought Midas as he kept watch. No one came near them for the next twenty or so minutes. He submerged and headed back to where the brothers were. Augusto was asleep while Leon looked lost in thought. He looked to Midas as he approached.
“We’re probably all that’s left of us… It sucks but we have planned for this and knew it may one day happen. I don’t see any humans looking for us here, but who knows when they find the bodies.” Leon looked at Midas, seeing he was trying to keep it together for the group. “What do you think we should do? I mean long term?” Midas pondered the question. They were in the south blue, which was human domain. Their only true allies would lie on fishman island. Their ancestors left long ago, but perhaps it was time for the Golden Dorado to return.
“What do you think… about Fishman island?” Leon thought for a moment and nodded, “It makes sense, we’d be safe and in our ‘home’ waters if you will. It’ll be a long journey.” Midas nodded slowly and looked down river, falling asleep….
Taking Stock, Reflecting
Midas was woken by the sun, filtering through the waves that gently lapped the shore above. The river was quite deep, but during the day his golden scales would catch the sun, giving away their location. He looked to his right without moving, to see the brothers. Augusto looked rested and was gathering seaweed and debris to make a quick tunic to cover his shiny scales. Leon was doing the same, figuring he slept enough, Midas also began to gather vegetation to weave together.
“Brother tells me you wish to head to Fishman island?” inquired Augusto. Midas could gather no intent of feeling from the question, he just seemed curious. Midas nodded as he completed a longer braid of seaweed.
“Yea, we can go check the scene of the battle, but I have a feeling that we’re the only ones left. At least with Fishman island, we have a destination to move towards, and potential allies once we arrive. Do you have any alternatives? I’m open to ideas.” Midas surprised himself, usually he felt like he knew what needed to be done, but these were new waters. He was the eldest here and so should take responsibility and lead. Thinking back to the night before, Caiman and Jamo asked if he knew what he was doing, shortly before they walked into a trap and died. That was Midas’s fault, although he was acting on orders, he didn’t think or consider what the others thought. Not this time though, he did believe fishman island was their best move, but it could be a longer goal. Short term they could accomplish other things. As Leon had said before, it was a long journey.
Augusto didn’t speak at first, and continued to weed, slowly moving from seaweed clump to clump. Leon was more experienced at tunic weaving and was completing his. He tied off 2 more knots and slid the tunic over his head. It had rudimentary sleeves and was long and flowing to cover his legs. They were effective in the water and would flow with the current to make hiding easier when following it.
“We could become pirates. Get a ship and sail the sea, make our own fortune and name?” Leon spoke the words, and Midas watched Augusto’s ear fins perk up. He was young, and adventure was appealing to him. Midas wasn’t too old himself either and thought over Leon’s suggestion. Their tribe had elders and young ones, so safety was more of a concern for the whole. Now that it was just the three of them, warriors no less, an established base was a lot less necessary. They could travel, and they could become pirates and still head to fishman island. Depending on what they did, they marines may get involved is they acquired bounties… He had no love for marines as they pretended to care about the treatment of fishmen. Slave trade was a common fear among his people, and from the stories of the elder’s, humans didn’t just stop at fishman slaves. He didn’t want to put his last 2 friends in danger, but that was life now.
Midas finished up his tunic and looked to Augusto. “What do you think? Run the seas as marauders and make our names?” Midas slide his tunic over and observed his work, not as good as Leon’s but it would work. Leon was now helping Augusto, he was much larger and needed much more material to cover himself. “Yea man, that would be pretty awesome to be pirates and just live our lives how we want. The humans do it all the time, maybe we can even get some to join our crew!” Midas looked up at Augusto quickly, making the large fishman’s face drop. “He’s not wrong though Midas, if we’re going to be traveling now, we’ll need to head ashore to get supplies and goods. A human crew mate or representative may help up immensely. Midas grimaced, he didn’t like the idea at all. They weren’t illegal but any means so they could go ashore and handle their business. It depended on who they ran into and if they would start a problem. “I don’t want any humans if it can be helped. We’re plenty strong enough, we’ll keep up our training and grow. By the time we return to fishman island, perhaps we can run it. They’ll never expect us to return after lifetimes.” Leon shook his head and Augusto shrugged, they were younger than Midas and so had not dealt with or saw the evil that humans do. Perhaps it would be better to remind them… They needed to check for survivors anyways. Leon had just finished and adorned his body with the tunic. With all three equipped, they would be able to travel the rivers.
“Unfortunately, we need to head back, and see what’s left of the tribe. There may be survivors who made it.” The Brothers nodded and followed Midas as he swam downstream to the ocean. The moved steadily with the flow of the water, and let it lazily carry them to the ocean. The sun shone brightly, so visibility was high. Good and bad, as they could see, and so others would be able to see them. Midas shifted and swam lower, an inch or so from the riverbed in order to be hard to see. Leon was much swifter and was moving a bit ahead of Midas. Augusto unfortunately was enormous, and not easy to hide. He would need to hold still and hope the people thought he was a large rock.
“Grab what you can to eat, looks like we have a decent amount of fish ahead and a little more way to the ocean still.” Said Leon, snatching a passing bass with his mouth. He bit the fish clean in half and then grabbed the head with is arm to finish after he was done chewing. This move excited the other bass to swim away, but Midas was on them with a powerful kick. He devoured the tail of a bass with a single bit, before slowly finishing the rest. Augusto charged forward eating a bass whole in one bite and grabbing another with his powerful hands. He finished the second one in one bite, like you would a shrimp. He tossed aside the tail fin and continued.
The fishman were lucky there were no humans yet, as their feast made splashes up the river. They had all eaten their fill, which was crucial to last nights recovery. They swam now, rested and full, strength recovered. The River began to widen and deepen, before finally opening up into the ocean. In the sunlight, the fishman could see the destruction unlike last night. Underwater, from their hiding place at the mouth of tributary they could see humans diving and searching the debris. They watched as bodies of their friends and families were tied together and floated with air balloons to the surface. Above them, 5 small boats searched the ships wreckage that hadn’t sunk and collected the bodies floated up. Midas knew that they would then be skinned, and the golden scales collected to be sold. He would never let them get away with this atrocity.
“They will pay for this…. But let us approach smart and strike viciously. Show them what they have wrought upon themselves. Augusto and Leon, you take care of the divers down below. We’re in the water so you’ll have the advantage. They seem to be armed with spears, and harpoon guns. While you strike low, and draw them down I’ll strike from above, while destroying the Air buoys so we can give our family the proper burial they deserve.” The brothers nodded in agreement and slowly began to creep down the cliff. Midas held his position and allowed them to get into place.
Deeper down the cliff Leon swam, moving smooth and quick, but not too fast as to draw the human’s attention. They had rudimentary diving gear, large tanks of air with tubes to their helmets. He thought they must only have had twenty to thirty minutes of breathing. He looked back to see his younger but larger brother keeping up, but a slower pace. He was larger and needed to be more careful. They both stopped about fifty feet deep and let their tunics flow to disturb their shape. They hung close to the wreckage of the main ship, as to look like trapped seaweed.
“Look Leon, those two are making their way to the back of this ship. I think I see… Caiman’s body. See, the sun catches his scales and they’ve noticed.” Augusto pointed for Leon to get a look. The divers were making a B line for the body and they were alone. Both wielded spears, but one had a harpoon gun attached to his leg with a holster. “I’ll take the one with the Harpoon gun, you take the other one. Let’s dip around and take them out quickly.” Augusto nodded at his brother’s commands, and they split up, Leon heading down left and himself right, ducking and creeping through the wreckage with the grace only a fish in water could have. Augusto reached his target first, and hit behind the bottom piece of wood, it’s large shadow further adding to hide him from sight. He pulled his tunic over his face so that only his eye were showing. He saw his brother moving into position to get his target. He was much swifter a swimmer, and more adept as well. He gracefully, and selectively moved between floating debris as he closed in on his target. Leon let his brother take the right side with the wreckage do to his size, but he could quickly hop debris to debris in one powerful kick. Below him the harpooned armed diver was just getting to the ship. Leon looked out around them to see how far the other humans were. They seemed to be moving in squads of two, about 4 squads total. Seeing that they weren’t under observation, Leon looked to Midas who gave the go ahead. Turning first to his brother to pass on the go, then locking sights on the harpoon man, Leon launched out from the sinking mast he had hidden behind. His body shot through the air, propelled by his strength and heritage Leon took a huge bite from the Man’s neck and made sure to get the tubing as well. Blood poured into a cloud around them, and in the confusion, Leon removed the harpoon gun from it’s holster and quickly swam off, catching the eye of the other diver. The human swam towards his friend but it would be in vain. As soon as he turned his focus to the blood, Augusto began to move, his muscles rippling as he rocketed forward. Leon was faster in general, but Augusto was powerful, and when he used his muscles to swim in quick bursts, he was the fast of the three. He too imitated his brothers strike and went for the neck. His assault was overkill though, and the last divers head was simply removed from his body. Augusto swallowed his neck and spit out the tubes from his diving set up. The brother moved then to Caiman’s body, which was pinned between some wooden beams. They gently removed the arrows from his body, as the diver Leon attacked finally drown to death.
Once they had the body free, Midas looked to the other groups of divers. There were three left, 6 total underwater. He knew not what the boats above held but it was his time to attack. The divers had been talking to each other using signs with their arms, and two groups moved down to Leon and Augusto, while one headed up, to warn the ships he assumed. He grabbed the rock he hid behind and then crouched back, before kicking off and throwing himself forward, erupting from the bank towards the divers heading to the surface. Due to the sunny day, the two groups heading down would have trouble looking up and seeing him. He would start his assault up, cut off reinforcements and then attack from above to back up Leon and Augusto. Once they regrouped they would assault the boats together, from the depths. Midas reached the first diver thirty feet below the surface and bite out his neck with his powerful jaw. At the depth the blood would be visible in a few minutes. The second diver saw his partner go down and raised his harpoon gun as fast as he could. Midas could see the fear in his eyes as he pulled the trigger, the harpoon propelling towards were Midas once was. He deftly changed direction in the water as the diver got his shot aligned, the harpoon missing it’s target. Midas snarled and continued towards the diver, who drew a knife and thrust it at the approaching Dorado. He easily knocked the forearm of the human with the back of his wrist and watched as the knife sink quickly, almost as quickly as Midas’s fangs sunk into the Humans clavicle and neck. His hard bite shattered his collar bone and upper shoulder blade. If he was above water, the mans scream would be heard far and wide, but down here under the waves, only bubbles carried the pain and agony; and no one could hear those. He left the bodies to float up and figured they would notice the blood and bubbles in a few seconds. He flexed his leg muscles and began to swim down to his two charges, who seemingly began battle.
Leon used his speed to get in close to the first diver before he could use his harpoon and unleashed his favorite technique, Piranha Feasting. He pummeled the man with three blows to the chest, knocking the wind out of him. Augusto had caught up to that diver’s partner and grabbed the spear that was thrust at him. The humans were slow in the water and easy to overpower; Augusto threw an open palm. The Shark Breaching open palm crushed the drivers torso, and he was thrown through the water; past the last group. The divers had their harpoon guns out, and opened fire on Augusto and Leon, who both easily dodged. They didn’t even bother to move as Midas came tearing through, Bashing both divers with one swing of a piece of ship he picked up. Augusto and Leon joined Midas and the three continued back to the surface. “We just need to clear the boats and recover the bodies.” Little needed to be said. On the way up to the surface they stopped to pop a balloon that carried several bodies. Most were the women and children Midas had instructed to escape. From the look of the injuries, they went deep and likely got caught in the lingering depth charge explosions. Another failure that his leadership brought about. “We found Kaiman as well… In the Main ship wreckage. We’ll finish this and give them a proper burial.” Leon said as they began to go up to the ships. Arrows began to rain down, the reality of the situation reached them. The large craft seemed to hold the arrow shooters, and the four smaller boats began to make for the shore.
“They must have the bodies on the smaller ships, Big one runs distraction/protection. Listen, I won’t risk you anymore than I have. I’ll charge the main ship and get their attention. When the arrows slow and stop, you two head for the smaller ships and stop them. We don’t know our enemies numbers but use the water to your advantage. If they get to land we’ll be in trouble. Remember your lessons, and forms, you are both capable warriors.” The brothers nodded, and Midas set off for the main ship. They followed for a ways but broke off and took cover as he pulled up dodging arrows. The surface was fast approaching and Midas breached, flying through the air. He ripped the seaweed tunic off and threw it at the first two archers on the bow, and landed in a crouch behind them. He spun with a low leg and knocked their footing, rising mid spin on his pivot foot, he kept the momentum going and raised the low leg. Continuing the spin, he kicked the archers again as they were midair, and sent them flying to the water. Midas stop and quickly accessed the enemies on the deck. There were four in front of him, and three more behind them. The archers were beginning to regain their composer and started to draw again. Midas knew this was the opening Augusto and Leon would need to slip by. He needed to keep the fight and their attention on him. He dashed forth, staying low as possible without sacrificing speed. He reached the first cluster as the back three shot their arrows. He grabbed the first man by the bow and opposite shoulder, crouching behind him and using him as a human shield. He took the three arrows and was tossed aside to the water. One of the close fighters had been smarter and drew his sword as Midas drew near and now swung vertically down, attempting to remove his right arm. Midas took a solid step towards the advancing enemy and planted his foot before unleashing a quick Flurry of blows, Piranha Feasting. The punches landed in quick succession, the first hitting the sword arm wrist, the next his elbow and finally his chest. The strength of the blows shattered his wrist and elbow, and the chest shot threw him back off the ship. “Any more of you filth want some…” Growled Midas. The closest two men turned to run but not fast enough. He stepped forward forcing both palms into their backs “Shark Breaching!” His palms slammed into their spines, but before he could fly away he snapped his primed fingers shut, grabbing their shirts. Both men spewed blood from their mouths at the force of the Palm attack and were promptly thrown into the water on either side of the ship; by the flick of Midas’ wrists.
The last three men readied themselves with their swords and the yells started from the four smaller boats behind them. The men turned giving Midas a moment to also look ahead. Looks like they were smart with their assault and attacked the first 2 boats first in order to hault progression. All the boats carried 2 men… and a pile of Golden Dorado Fishman. Augusto had crushed the bottom of one boat, sinking it and getting the bodies into the water. Judging by the blood that bubbled up, he finished the job. Leon brought the fight on board, both men laid dead and the boat was halted. He leapt towards the next boat as Midas snapped back to his reality. The men were advancing now, swords at the ready. He would need speed to combat the blades and prepared for a Piranha Feasting. The first human came into range and Midas fired off his first punch, breaking the mans jaw, he then kicking him in the chest with his second move, throwing the body into the second attacker. His Final punch with his left fist, ended up in the neck of the final attacker, sending him down with a gurgle. Midas moved towards the man he had sent unbalanced by throwing his buddy and snapped his neck. The humans are puny and weak when you fight fair… Scum.. thought Midas as he moved to the rear of the boat. Augusto and Leon were pushing the last of their tribe’s bodies into the water. They surveys the area and saw no other humans, somberly they all dove into the water.
They gathered the bodies and buried them in the sea bed in the ocean near by. Stones they carved with steel from the ships allowed them to leave messages. Midas buried the four masters near a large rock formation and left messages of their power and will to teach the next generation. For his Parents, he left a message of enduring, and love. Augusto and Leon finished burying their parents, and the three continued to bury the other dozen or so tribe members. The sat and prayed and thought on their people. The Golden Dorado were driven from their homes on fishman island decades ago. In their exile they grew strong and tough, determined to survive any threat. They were not finished yet, as three lived and carried on their ways. “We will bring pride to our people, and pass on the Golden Tide for to the next generation. We will rebuild… I promise you. These humans all will pay for what has happened here.”
Augusto and Leon made eye contact, which was noticed by Midas. He stood from his kneeled position. “Speak, what it is?” He could feel something was off with the two, and if they were to survive, he would need to get to the bottom of it. Augusto was first to speak. “I mean no disrespect Master Midas, but you’re letting hatred cloud your mind! Yes humans see us differently, but we are different. You cannot hate them all for the actions of a few. It doesn’t make sense and will make this journey harder for us. We will need to learn to work with the humans, as they too are enslaved, we are not the only ones. I say we find a nearby village and see what we can learn. We will need supplies for the trip anyways.” Midas took in his words and felt anger within himself, Lean watched silently to see what would happen.
Midas looked at them both a few times and with a flutter of fins turned to face out into the sea. I am their leader now, and Augusto speaks true. I am angry and I do hate the humans… While they may deserve it, it will in fact cloud my judgement. The boy grows wise. Leon is watching me as well, he didn’t speak much during the attacks either. He is observing and even though he is my junior, his technique and speed are no Joke. He could easily surpass me with proper training. They are both fine men to have with me, and I must live up to their expectations and grow stronger and wiser. If they could grow into a great force, they could take over the seas if they wanted, unite Fishman Island and do whatever they want and truly live free.
“You’re right Augusto, I am clouded by anger, and not all humans are to blame. I let this get Jobu and Kaiman killed. If we were stronger we could have saved them… We could have done something. Next time we will. We will prepare and get what we need to move out, we need to train and strengthen ourselves for the road ahead.” The Brothers nodded, their faith in Midas restored a bit. A calm set over the group, as they sat in the burial place of their people with the whole ocean in front of them. Augusto broke the silence first, asking if anyone else was hungry. The group agreed in unison they would hunt. “We should find a village as well to get supplies, perhaps we head upriver once more and grab fish on the way?” The logic sounded good to Midas, and the three swam once more past their old village and into the river. Th sun was starting to set so they would be hard to spot in the murky depths which also made catching food easier. They swam for most the evening, eating their fill on river bass and the occasional turtle they caught basking. They were known as the river tigers for nothing, these close water ways were their specialty. The river eventually began to open up more and they made out boats from below. Meeting at the bottom of the harbor, they looked up at the docks from below with the moon light illuminating the scene. “You two already know I’d like to take what we need now and leave during the night but I know you want to give the humans a chance, should we wait until morning and try this like ‘civilized’ people?” He couldn’t help smiling at civilized, from what he’d seen of the humans, they were saints. Leon yawned and floated back doing an imitation of laying in a bed. “I could rest up until morning, you’re not tired?” Midas shrugged, fatigue was beginning to set in now that he thought about it. They had an eventful few day to say the least. They turned to Augusto who was already getting cozy himself. Midas found a nice spot on the seabed and made a quick pillow of seaweed. “See you in the morning then.”
The three Golden Dorado fishmen slept great that night, they had put their family to rest and gotten revenge. They awoke to the suns rays filtering through the waves, their warm felt even in the depths below. “Well, if we’re to get supplies, we’ll need money.” Midas statement stumped the two brothers. I guess fish could net them some coin. Midas looked at his hand for a few seconds, remembering why his people were sought after. “Our scales… they are worth a lot. They do grow back as well. Let us use human’s greed to our advantage this time.” The group swam up to the shore as Midas removed 5 golden scales from his wrist. They found some sails from a boat near by that they fashioned into loose tunics again like the sea weed. Into town they headed, the three fishman drawing plenty of looks. Though surrounded by a forest, the town was very unhealthy looking. Trash littered the streets and tall stacks released smoke as factories roared with work. Though despite the mess, there was an air of money and wealth as people went about their day. Augusto was pleasant and smiled, sometimes waving to kids, Leon and Midas walked with a straight face. They saw the appraisers store ahead in a square and figured that would be the best place to get offered some coin. They pushed through the crowd of people blocking the square, they seemed to be caught in a trance how captured their attention was. Midas turned to see a gallows, with a line of four humans ready to be hung. The board display said they were escaped slaves who were re-captured. “The humans even enslave their own people?” Asked Leon is surprise. Midas nodded grimly, and you two want to be buddy buddy with them.” The group was through the crowd and heading towards the appraiser’s door when they heard the shout to pull the ropes. The crowds cheers were cut off by the door closing. A small shrewd looking man looked up from his desk at the fishman. He was mesmerized by the golden gleam their scales let off in the light of the shop. Midas stepped forward ad turned his hand over, dumping the 5 scales on the desk. “These are golden scales, you can investigate for yourself and see. I’m looking to sell them for belli.” Said Midas to the man, whose eye lit up. He grabbed a small peering object and investigated. He seemed happy with what he found and pulled out a bag of belli. “How is 1000? And come back If you ever feel like shedding more!”
The Midas took the bag and turned to leave, Leon following. Augusto bowed and left after the other two. “Well that was easy…” Said Leon skeptically. Midas grunted in agreement but for the moment it looked like they were ok. He looked around as they left the shop. There was still quite the crowd from the hanging, and people were loitering about. Leon caught sight of a shady bunch of humans looking at their money and nudged Midas. Augusto followed the physical ques and traced the eye motion as well, seeing the men, nefarious looking. “Looks like we caught some attention,” said Midas, “How about we get a boat.” The other two nodded and the group headed towards the docks nearby. Midas was thinking a small craft, maybe 300 or 400 belli, would be plenty left over for supplies. They could just catch fish but would need various tools and such for the journey.
They approached a large building with a walk-up window, and a weathered sign that said Shipyard. “We’re looking for a small boat, something simple to sail,” He looked back past the receptionist and pointed out a small craft with blue sails, “That one is actually perfect, how much?” The women turned to look at the boat and then back to him, telling him the cost was 450. He looked at it again and shrugged. “Alright we’ll take it. He handed the money over and she had some men lower the ship into the bay. She instructed the three to follower her, and they headed down a hallway to the left. On the other end was the docks and bay, and the ship was sitting before them. “I hope you enjoy; this quick little guy moves fast with some wind behind it.” Midas nodded and Augusto smiled and thanked the women again. She left the three to head back to her position at the desk. The Golden Dorado fishmen stepped aboard their little craft and smiled to each other. This was the beginning of something great. In their excitement, they hadn’t noticed he humans from earlier looking on from a few docks away, on their own boat. The fishman took the boat out to the water and ran it’s paces, adjusting the sail to catch the wind, cutting through waves and maneuvering swells. After a few hours they had all gotten familiar with how it handled, that way all could man the rudder if needed. They could always abandon ship in the worse case but the boat saved them from long distance swimming.
“Alright we have a ship. Leon, do you want to gather fish to eat while I head into the town for the other supplies? Augusto, you’ll watch the ship and the money and stay out with Leon with the boat. I don’t want us near that town if I can help it, there was a lot of people who saw us today.” Midas spoke to the brothers as he directed the craft back towards the town. “Are you sure splitting up is wise?” Asked Leon, “Perhaps staying in a group will keep our fighting power up to defend.” Augusto didn’t speak, knowing his age he let those two make the decisions. He dragged his hand in the water lazily as the boat cruised back towards the shore. Midas pondered Leon’s idea. If they were attacked it would be better if they were together. He wanted to keep numbers low in exposure areas but if trouble started he would be alone. Leon’s point had credence. “Sure, we aren’t really in a rush anyways right. No need to really split up yet.” The boat sailed on as the village came into view, it was a beautiful scene before the canon fire started. All around them water exploded in tall plumes as a large ship approached from behind a cove. Midas took evasive maneuvers in the boat and continued for the village. He was hoping the local marines or militia would hear the canon fire and assist the out gunned boat. “Augusto, Leon, give us a boost on either side!” Midas shouted from the helm, dodging another onslaught on cannon balls. Leon and Augusto would jump in on each side and grab the boat with one arm, and started swimming, to propel it forward. With the boost, the small ship was able to get out of range of the cannons fairly quick. They were close to land now and saw a port; The Larger ship had ceased it’s chase once it was clear they wouldn’t be catching up. August and Leon hoped back in the boat as they approached port.
It was a decent size if not a bit modest, the docks were well built though and even though they stared the people didn’t seem threatening. They tied off the ship as a harbor master and a few dock hands approached.
“Hey now, we don’t want any trouble, just want to see whose docking. We heard the canon fire, are you all ok?” asked the man, his bushy mustache enveloping his upper lip completely. Leon stepped forward, the smallest and least imposing. They didn’t want to start trouble here when there was an enemy ship blocking their escape.
“Hello, we too don’t want any trouble. The canons were from a larger ship that almost got us, but we made it here.” The man shook his head sadly, “My apologies, they are a brazen group of slavers that has been terrorizing our coast for months now.” The mention of slavers perked something in all the fishman, and the air changed. Midas stepped forward now. “We intended to just grab supplies and head out, but you’re telling me there are slaves on that ship?” The man nodded, “Unfortunately yes, there are more as well around the cape that they keep as a base.” Augusto looked in the direction of where the ship had appeared from, to the north west. “No one has gone to stop them? You seem to know where they are?” Blurted Midas, not angerly but confused. “We have tried, and many good men have either died or been captured themselves. We have reached out to the local marines, but these men pay them off and continue their business.” The marines were local law keepers; Midas remembered from his lessons as a youth about the upper world.
“Alright, show us where we can get supplies for our journey. We’ll think of a plan for the slavers.” The Harbor master bid them to follow him, and he lead them along the docks. They held up well, even with the sea beating on them, the wood was holding very well. The Harbor master was a bit overweight, top heavy. Midas could make out half a dozen hairs poking out of his ears. Humans were funny like that, hair in odd places and Ironic thought Midas that The Harbor master was losing his top hair. They came to a gather point in the town, an open space with a raised platform, likely for announcements. Around the square were various tables and shops, half though were closed and boarded up. “Yes, it’s because of the slavers that these are closed. Well this is where you can get supplies. I’ll leave you to your business then. If you do take care of the slavers I’m sure the towns people will reward you.” At that, the man turned and headed back to the docks. Midas took out the bells he had left over from when he got the ship and split it up between Augusto and Leon.
“We’re going to need rope, a bit of food, and some weapons if you can. I’m going to scout a bit and see what we can find out. Once you’re done let’s meet at the ship.” Augusto and Leon nodded and watched as Midas turned and headed toward the North West coast to get a look at the slaver camp. “Well, he didn’t even think twice that they were human slaves a step in the right direction eh? The Harbor Master situation went smooth too.” Leon nodded, agreeing with his younger brother. Together they walked towards the nearest stalls and were drawn to a shipping supply. As Midas instructed, they bought a good amount of rope. Leon knew this was to have backups incase the sails hit some nasty winds and the ropes went, didn’t want to be caught unable to adjust the sails. They also bought some barrels for storage, extra sail linen for repairs and various tools. Moving on they came to food, and with some help was able to figure out what would hold and store best and combined best with fish, which they would still be catching. Finally, they came to weapons, but were running low on cash. All they ended up being able to afford were three crappy swords, but the edges were sharp, and they were strong so he figured it would work out. They gathered the supplies and headed to the ship, their immense strength helping. Once on the boat, Augusto placed the food in one barrel, and the rope and sails in another. Midas emerged from the water shortly after, shooting from it’s calm surface, and landing on the dock smoothly.
“I trust supplies went good then?” Midas said knocking a knuckled on the barrels. “Sails, rope tools, and food. Not to mention, these works of art.” He rolled his eyes tossing Midas a rough looking sword. He stuck it into the wood railing next to him, seemed sharp enough for humans. “We can wait for the sun to go down before we move, I was able to swim there quite easily. We’ll leave the ship and get close so we can assess the situation better, when was the last time we trained?” Augusto and Leon looked up pondering and realized it had been awhile. After securing all the new goodies in their right place on the ship, The three fishman leapt overboard into the water. The harbor wasn’t too deep but gave them enough space to keep an eye on the boat and have space to train. All three Golden Dorado fishman began to stretch and loosen up in the calm waters, it always felt better being submerged than on the surface to Midas. The water was cool on his scales and didn’t dry him out like the air did over time. Once they were limbered up, the brothers took a position facing each other and began to spar. Midas, on his own, began to practice his forms slowly at first, and slowly increasing to fighting speed. He always did this gradual increase to first get the form, and then the power. He was still low on the totem pole of fishman karate but having never been to the island and learning what was passed down wasn’t the ideal way to learn. He had heard stories of great practitioners dealing even more damage but using the water to their advantage. As he practiced his forms now, he tried to extend and reach out to the water. His punches remained punches, his kicks moved through the water, but not with it. Midas didn’t allow himself to get upset as he was still learning, but he needed to get it down soon. They were out in the world alone now and his power would be needed to protect Leon and Augusto. They would make it together though as anything he learned to get stronger, they would learn. After he ran through his forms, he began to mediate while Augusto and Leon continued to spar. After about an hour, the fishman wrapped up and swam back to the surface. The sun was beginning to drop and the three grabbed some fish they caught earlier to eat.
Liberation of the Mind and Body
“Not that I don’t think we should do this Midas but why are you so taken at helping the humans?” Asked Leon, as he finished attaching the sword to his belt. Leon really enjoyed this change in Midas and was fully behind the liberation of the slaves.
“I thought firstly of our kind being slaves, and then projected this understanding to the humans. The harbor master also genuinely seemed concerned with our safety after seeing we were attacked. The fact that he tried doing what he’s supposed to, by report it to the marines, and they just ignore him? Infuriates me as If they allow it for humans…. They probably celebrate it for us. Sympathizing with him for a moment, I realized he’s probably feeling as helpless as we are right now, with a fraction of the strength. Why not lend out a little help? If not for the good karma, perhaps the warrior’s way?” Midas smiled knowing he didn’t need to make an excuse as to why he wanted to help.
The sun had finally set and the Fishmen were moving from their boat, toward the location of the slaver base. They moved a few feet under water as to not disturb the surface and give away their approach. A surprising calm came over the trio as if the tide and current were just right, more so they were doing something that felt right. They counted 2 large ships, with a few smaller craft to move between ships and the camp. They floated under the boats for a while, discussing what the best plan of attack would be. The three then decided to swim out to the tip of the curve of the mountain so they could see the on-land base. The beach was fortified with walls and barriers and there were three large buildings on the edge of the beach. Behind the buildings were a few trees, but then steep mountains.
“There isn’t much place for them to run, if we were attack the means of escape would be the ships. Like usual, seems to be that taking the ship would be the best option to cut off an escape.” Offered Leon, Midas nodded. The land didn’t leave them much chance, but they could hide in the trees. “Where are they keeping the slaves, shouldn’t we try to secure their safety before launching an attack?” Midas nodded again and continued to observe. Of the three buildings, the two story farthest from them seemed to have minimal guards, and it was the largest building. If he had to guess probably would be staff housing. There was a single story building closer smaller than the other two, but much heavier guarded. “I think that’s what we’ll be dealing with for the slaves, see how many guards there are?” Augusto nodded, now paying more attention to the armed humans, where they stood and the routes they seemed to be moving. “If we were to free them first, I’m not sure we could guarantee their safety, perhaps they would or could fight. We also don’t know how many or what condition they’re in.” Midas nodded, great points coming from Leon, he could dissect a situation very quickly. “We also need to consider after the fact, getting the slaves back to the town. We shouldn’t take out both of the ships, keep one to evacuate.”
Midas has his plan formulated. “Alright here’s what we’ll do. Augusto and I will head into the water while Leon, you’ll move to the forest from here and wait for our signal, May be a while. We’ll twist up the anchors for the ships so they won’t be able to move far even if they try to escape. After that, I’ll sneak on to the farthest ship and search for slaves. I’ll be as quiet as I can, but I assume they’ll raise the alarm. Augusto will be in the water waiting for the smaller boats and cut off reinforcements. Once the battle starts, Leon you’ll come in from behind in the woods and see if you can free the slaves and join us on the beach. They can retreat to the tree line if they don’t want to fight.” Each of the brothers thought about their role, and how it was a sound plan. No one would be too far away to support each other should things go wrong.
“Well I guess it’s time then right? Let’s do it.” Leon stuck around as Midas and Augusto leapt into the water and started to swim for the boats. Leon watched them go on for a few more minutes before he began to move towards the woods. Depending on how quiet Midas was he may be waiting for a while.
Midas and Augusto reached the sea floor under the two ships and split up to grab their anchors. Once they lifted them, they carefully swam around each other, looping the chains together and then dropped them again gently; to not disturb the chains. Once linked, Augusto swam to the front most large ship and kept and eye on the smaller transport boats and held his position. Observing them, he noted that they seemed to be moving things off the large boats for the night. He couldn’t tell much else, but kept and eye on things and waited for Midas’ signal.
On the beach, or more specifically the woods behind, Leon was making his way to what they believed was the slave holding building. He sat for a bit, waiting to see if there were any guard rotations around back, and it seemed there wasn’t. With the marines paid off and the villages would be warriors captured or dead, they probably thought they didn’t need to guard. He moved closer to the building and looked in a window, he saw two dozen humans chained around the room. Their Shackles allowed them to sit, but limited their arms to having to rest or hang on the chains at chest level; an purposely evil design. He counted 4 guards at a table in the center of the room, playing cards; also humans. He took a step back and decided to check out the other buildings in the meantime. He went to the farther, second floor building and looked in. Looks like the first floor was an armory, and the second floor was bunks if the sign wasn’t lying. He stepped back again and got a look at the beach. There were 3 bonfires with about 3 people around each, another 10 men were on the little boats. He wasn’t sure what would be on the larger boats but Midas would take care of that. His loose plan was to wait for the guards to respond, and then come through the window to save them.
Midas has slowly climbed up the back end of the ship and peaked over the to the desk from where he thought safest. He counted three men on the deck who seemed to be packing up a smaller boat with supplies to lower into the water. “We lost that one boat earlier, but that last haul was great!” Exclaimed the man farthest from Midas. The man he was working with responded, “Yea no more slaves but plenty of supplies. We need to sell this stuff quick so we can pay for more protection.” Midas watched as the third man came from below ship, followed by 3 others all carrying boxes. “That’s it on this boat, we’ll unload the next and be done for the night. You four pick 2 to stay on the ship as guard. The remaining 2 lowered the others on the small boat and out of his view. That was interesting, they could use this ship to escape then. He heard the splash from the smaller boat and waited a few minutes as the two guards came to the seaside rail to look into the night. Midas climbed around and snuck up behind them. He quickly knocked them out. He moved through the ship and made sure no one else was there, which seemed to be the case. He saw signs of people though, scratch marks and blood on the sides of the hull, tons of chains and holding cells. His anger rose as his did, but to the top deck. He saw the group of slavers that left had reached the next boat, and the fact that they were tasked with emptying it also seemed to imply it was also empty. He dove from the desk into the water below, with little in the way of a splash. Augusto was surprised to see him as he had been waiting for trouble and commotion to start his attack.
“As you noticed, the little boats are pulling back to the beach. The far ship is empty, and I believe this one is as well as the ones who were responsible for cleaning out the far boat headed there next. We still need a commotion though, to draw out the slave guards and give Leon a chance to evacuate them.” Midas said, looking up to survey the water. They only needed one large ship… he could start the commotion on the still occupied boat to draw people away from the beach and buildings. “I’ll go start trouble on the ship, be ready”
Midas swam to the large, closer boat of the two. The human scum slavers had already boarded, their lifeboat above Midas. He swam under the ship to the opposite side and began to climb up. At the top, he had deja vu with the last ship, as there were 2 posted men, the other three should be below deck gathering supplies. He lunged on to the desk, making sure to make as much noise as possible, and quickly drew the crappy sword. He rushed the closest human and sliced him from right hip to left shoulder. He yelled, and his companion took a step towards him before rethinking the decision and turned to the alarm bell. Midas pretended to rush towards him and then let him ring the bell, he headed below deck as the man’s back was turned to sound the alarm. Midas heard scuffles and footsteps coming up from below, no doubt curious about the alarm going off. He clutched his sword and readied himself.
Augusto faintly heard the alarm bell ringing from below the waves and turned to face the beach. The smaller boats were pushing off towards the one Midas was on. Augusto swam in front of submerged, once it was in position, he shot his arm up and grabbed the bow, and forcefully pulled it under water. The boat popped back up but not before the humans were dumped under with Augusto. Even using the crappy sword, the men stood no chance submerged.
Leon was looking through the window when he heard the bell start ringing. The Guards playing cards suddenly looked up confused and slowly got up. They talked amongst them selves and two headed out the front door. Leon took a step back, and then propelled his way through the window, and rolled coming up right in front of the guard on the right. He drew the sword mid roll and chopped the man’s arm off using the momentum. His partner looked stunned to see a fishman appear but only for a moment. He had his pistol drawn just as Leon slide the blade in his diaphragm. The slaves all looked at him in wonder as he searched the bodies for the key. The first target had it in his chest pocket. He went to the first man chained up and unlocked him and handed him the Key.
“Listen! This man will free you. With me are two other fishmen, we can free you. If you cannot or will not fight, go out the back window and hide in the trees until the battle is over. Anyone who can fight, get your revenge!”
He then left out through the front door and Midas and Augusto on the beach fighting. The two of them were facing off against a dozen men. He ran across the sand and with an overhead swing sunk his blade in to the man in the back of the pack. He screamed out in pain, drawing the attention of the men to look behind them.
Midas saw the moment when their attention faltered and rushed in swinging the blade. Augusto followed his lead and pressed the attack as well. Combined with Leon and the slaves, they made quick work of the enemy.
“Augusto, can you untangle the Anchors?” Augusto nodded and waded into the water until he sunk out of view beneath the waves. “You’re free now, the harbor master of your village let us know of your plight. Being fishmen know of slavery unfortunately very well. We hope you enjoy your second go at freedom. The boats are empty, lets head back.”
They used the small boats, to head to the larger one, and then back to the port. It was early morning when the ship pulled in but the town was out with their weapons, prepared to fight. They likely thought the fishman had failed but once realizing the port turned in to a celebration.
The three fishman looked on from the boat smiling. “We did some good huh?” Chuckled Augusto. Midas nodded, feeling extremely fulfilled. Leon and Augusto smiled at each other, the Midas they knew a few weeks ago wouldn’t be smiling at helping humans. “I like granting them their freedom, the liberation. I can’t wait to free some of our own brethren. Perhaps they would join us…” Midas imagined then a crew of fishman cruising the waves, taking down the corrupt government that ‘allowed’ others to be in chains.
Midas’ thoughts were interrupted by the Harbor master and other villagers, rushing over to their ship to thank them. They smiled and waved and had no answer for their questions of what comes next.
Flashes and bubbles instantly surrounded Oro Midas, making him drop the knife and fish he was handling. The bass began to float up past his face but could barely get his senses about him due to the ringing in his ears. He quickly gathered himself and opened his eyes, seeing clouds of red pouring from his friends and family. Long spears and arrows pierced the surface around them as underwater charges seemed to be going off below.
The humans had struck at night, using the charges to illuminate the water and see where the fishman hid. They followed up by attacking with spears and projectiles while their prey was disoriented. Midas had been preparing some bass he caught upriver earlier, their settlement was underneath a tributary that lead into the ocean. This provided safe travel upstream to get resources from inland and still have the safety of water. The main camp was dug into the cliff where a cliff met the ocean. It was a great spot and allowed the Fishman to have access to river and sea safely, something Midas would miss. He was unsure how the humans had found them, but wondered if Augusto or Leon had anything to do with it.
“Dive! Go deep and protect the children!” Yelled Midas to the elder fishman he was helping cook. He himself had trained his life for this and began to head towards the human boats. He dodged spears and arrows on his way up, and noticed his fellow warriors joining him. They had lost a fourth of their numbers in the initial surprise, but the humans would have a tough time now that they had their attention…
The Fishman regrouped under the main ship, there were three in total. The charges were coming from the smaller ships while the arrows rained down from the shore and main craft.
“Midas, Leon, Augusto… Caiman, Jamo and the three masters. We have more than enough warriors to wipe these humans from our waters.” The water around Master Fi seemed to surge as he spoke, but that simply could have been Midas’ admiration playing tricks on him. All he knew of the fishman karate arts, he learned from Fi. There were other masters but Fi lead the school and was the toughest warrior despite his age, the ocean truly loved him.
“Alright, me and Mast09er Shi will take the charge boat on the left, and Masters Gon and Rei will take the charge boat on the right. Strike from the water and try not to board, it’ll be dangerous with their explosives.
Midas, you lead the rest up the main ship and begin to clear the deck. Once the charge boats are taken care of we’ll rendezvous on your position. These humans have taken enough of our people today, no one else shall fall! Move!”
At his command Master Gon and Rei headed to their target, Gon swam under the ship and began to use a whirl pool technique to draw the boat under as Rei would hit it with wave to put out any fire. Midas took the students around to the back of the ship, the of them swimming in tight formation.
“Don’t be scared, just kill them. Remember your techniques and stick close to each other.” Midas more so commanded than spoke. Augusto was angry and fired up, and Midas’ words only stoked him. Leon too was angry, but knew his brother would put himself at risk if he lost focus. Caiman and Jamo swam up to Midas, they were the same age as him but knew their place. Outside of the masters, Midas was the strongest of their tribe.
“Listen, Midas once we’re on deck what’s the plan? Humans may be weak but they aren’t stupid, we need to be prepared.” Midas’ head fin twitched at Jamo’s inquiry, what didn’t he get?
“Grab a human and crush it Jamo, I don’t know what else to tell you. Now come on, here.”
Midas led them around the rudder and launched out of the water, grabbing the hanging ropes where the life boats should have been. Midas in his anger hadn’t noticed, and continued to climb, his men behind him. At last, he vaulted over the railing his golden scales flickering and shimmering in the torch light.
At that moment, both charge boats exploded, rocking the main ship violently. The Fishman onboard were thrown off their feat, Midas slide and grabbed the railing catching a glimpse of the carnage below. He felt the heat the on his facial scales, as black smoke poured up from the charge boats. The water was black with some substance, but it seemed to stick on anything it touched. Midas could make out his masters in the muck, trying to breath through the black gunk stuck all over their bodies. He couldn’t tell who was who, and had to look away due to the heat, turning he saw the humans.
They weren’t on the ship however… they were all on the shore armed with bows. They archers drew their bows, the tips alight with fire. “The water will prevent most of the burning, we’ll recover the bodies and get that gold. Men, cut off their escape.” As the commander ended his sentence, the archers let loose. The flaming arrows pierced the sky, like specks of gold and ignited the black oil on the water.
“NOOO” Yelled Midas, who ran to the edge to jump in. He was stopped by Augusto who tackled him under the second barrage of flaming arrows. The desk of the main ship was beginning to catch. Midas peered over once more at the water below, but this time saw only fire.
“Midas what do we do? This was a trap!” Caiman yelled as he looked around fearfully. The Golden Dorado fishman were pinned down on the deck. They had cover from the archers for the moment. Midas tried to clear his head but the death of his people kept him from focusing, he could only see his master burning.
“Listen, we need to get to land. It’ll be a far jump but we can make it to the cliff. We need to take out the archers!” Jamo’s words hit the group, but rolled off of Midas. The masters were dead, and he needed to lead. Jamo uttered a plan, and then again shaking Midas to make sure he heard.
“ Yea, Yea lets do it. I’m here now. Lets get these the filthy humans.” Midas clenched his fist as the next volley of arrows came. He poked his head up and saw the archers drawing. “They’re about to fire again, as soon as the arrows are over head, charge them!”
The humans let fly, and the Fishman attacked. Leon, the fastest of the group quickly tore across the deck. Jamo was behind him followed by Midas, Kaiman and Augusto, who were all neck and neck. Leon and Jamo were in the air when the Commander ordered the next volley loose.
With a shout, Jamo was knocked from the air, three arrows protruding from his chest as he fell into the burning water below. Leon made it across and immediately took out two archers with chops to the neck. Midas and Augusto were in the air when he heard Kaiman drop to the deck behind him. Landed on their feet, Midas an Augusto joined Leon in the slaughter.
They didn’t have weapons but their techniques were vicious paired with their inhuman strength, and humans so soft at that. “Golden Tide: Shark Breaching” shouted Midas as he shattered a man’s ribcage with his palm. It was a technique he had developed for Augusto, whose raw power needed an outlet. The next victim raised his sword and slashed down at Midas, who turned and let the blade fall into the earth. He threw a quick jab and broke the mans face. Turning, he saw Leon finish the last of the men, using his Piranha Feasting technique. It was a flawless execution, but Leon’s forms were always perfect.
With the enemies taken care of Midas turned back to the ship, to Kaiman. Who was hanging on to the railing. He had 2 arrows in his chest and one in his shoulder, and wouldn’t be able to make the jump; the ship crumbled around him.
“Go Midas, you three must survive!” With a plume of fire and smoke, the ship collapsed, taking Kaiman with it into the burning depths. The three looked at each other briefly before running tin to the woods for cover. They cut west and made for the river, not seeing any other humans on the way. Once they submerged in the water the emotions began to flow. Augusto began to weep, and Leon put a hand on his shoulder for comfort. Midas wanted to cry, wanted to explode really in anger and sadness, but he couldn’t show weakness, not now.
“Lets rest here tonight, we’ll check out the site tomorrow. It’s still burning and there’s no way for us to get there now. After you calm down, the fatigue will hit. I’ll take first watch.” He swam closer to the brother and pushed all their heads togethers. He then left the brothers to console each other, he needed to check the surface. He popped his head out within the reeds by the bank, they were tall and it was still dark which provided great cover. He saw the flickering of fire through the trees, more humans going to investigate? Perhaps they are back up warriors.. Thought Midas as he kept watch. No one came near them for the next twenty or so minutes. He submerged and headed back to where the brothers were. Augusto was asleep while Leon looked lost in thought. He looked to Midas as he approached.
“We’re probably all that’s left of us… It sucks but we have planned for this and knew it may one day happen. I don’t see any humans looking for us here, but who knows when they find the bodies.” Leon looked at Midas, seeing he was trying to keep it together for the group. “What do you think we should do? I mean long term?” Midas pondered the question. They were in the south blue, which was human domain. Their only true allies would lie on fishman island. Their ancestors left long ago, but perhaps it was time for the Golden Dorado to return.
“What do you think… about Fishman island?” Leon thought for a moment and nodded, “It makes sense, we’d be safe and in our ‘home’ waters if you will. It’ll be a long journey.” Midas nodded slowly and looked down river, falling asleep….
Taking Stock, Reflecting
Midas was woken by the sun, filtering through the waves that gently lapped the shore above. The river was quite deep, but during the day his golden scales would catch the sun, giving away their location. He looked to his right without moving, to see the brothers. Augusto looked rested and was gathering seaweed and debris to make a quick tunic to cover his shiny scales. Leon was doing the same, figuring he slept enough, Midas also began to gather vegetation to weave together.
“Brother tells me you wish to head to Fishman island?” inquired Augusto. Midas could gather no intent of feeling from the question, he just seemed curious. Midas nodded as he completed a longer braid of seaweed.
“Yea, we can go check the scene of the battle, but I have a feeling that we’re the only ones left. At least with Fishman island, we have a destination to move towards, and potential allies once we arrive. Do you have any alternatives? I’m open to ideas.” Midas surprised himself, usually he felt like he knew what needed to be done, but these were new waters. He was the eldest here and so should take responsibility and lead. Thinking back to the night before, Caiman and Jamo asked if he knew what he was doing, shortly before they walked into a trap and died. That was Midas’s fault, although he was acting on orders, he didn’t think or consider what the others thought. Not this time though, he did believe fishman island was their best move, but it could be a longer goal. Short term they could accomplish other things. As Leon had said before, it was a long journey.
Augusto didn’t speak at first, and continued to weed, slowly moving from seaweed clump to clump. Leon was more experienced at tunic weaving and was completing his. He tied off 2 more knots and slid the tunic over his head. It had rudimentary sleeves and was long and flowing to cover his legs. They were effective in the water and would flow with the current to make hiding easier when following it.
“We could become pirates. Get a ship and sail the sea, make our own fortune and name?” Leon spoke the words, and Midas watched Augusto’s ear fins perk up. He was young, and adventure was appealing to him. Midas wasn’t too old himself either and thought over Leon’s suggestion. Their tribe had elders and young ones, so safety was more of a concern for the whole. Now that it was just the three of them, warriors no less, an established base was a lot less necessary. They could travel, and they could become pirates and still head to fishman island. Depending on what they did, they marines may get involved is they acquired bounties… He had no love for marines as they pretended to care about the treatment of fishmen. Slave trade was a common fear among his people, and from the stories of the elder’s, humans didn’t just stop at fishman slaves. He didn’t want to put his last 2 friends in danger, but that was life now.
Midas finished up his tunic and looked to Augusto. “What do you think? Run the seas as marauders and make our names?” Midas slide his tunic over and observed his work, not as good as Leon’s but it would work. Leon was now helping Augusto, he was much larger and needed much more material to cover himself. “Yea man, that would be pretty awesome to be pirates and just live our lives how we want. The humans do it all the time, maybe we can even get some to join our crew!” Midas looked up at Augusto quickly, making the large fishman’s face drop. “He’s not wrong though Midas, if we’re going to be traveling now, we’ll need to head ashore to get supplies and goods. A human crew mate or representative may help up immensely. Midas grimaced, he didn’t like the idea at all. They weren’t illegal but any means so they could go ashore and handle their business. It depended on who they ran into and if they would start a problem. “I don’t want any humans if it can be helped. We’re plenty strong enough, we’ll keep up our training and grow. By the time we return to fishman island, perhaps we can run it. They’ll never expect us to return after lifetimes.” Leon shook his head and Augusto shrugged, they were younger than Midas and so had not dealt with or saw the evil that humans do. Perhaps it would be better to remind them… They needed to check for survivors anyways. Leon had just finished and adorned his body with the tunic. With all three equipped, they would be able to travel the rivers.
“Unfortunately, we need to head back, and see what’s left of the tribe. There may be survivors who made it.” The Brothers nodded and followed Midas as he swam downstream to the ocean. The moved steadily with the flow of the water, and let it lazily carry them to the ocean. The sun shone brightly, so visibility was high. Good and bad, as they could see, and so others would be able to see them. Midas shifted and swam lower, an inch or so from the riverbed in order to be hard to see. Leon was much swifter and was moving a bit ahead of Midas. Augusto unfortunately was enormous, and not easy to hide. He would need to hold still and hope the people thought he was a large rock.
“Grab what you can to eat, looks like we have a decent amount of fish ahead and a little more way to the ocean still.” Said Leon, snatching a passing bass with his mouth. He bit the fish clean in half and then grabbed the head with is arm to finish after he was done chewing. This move excited the other bass to swim away, but Midas was on them with a powerful kick. He devoured the tail of a bass with a single bit, before slowly finishing the rest. Augusto charged forward eating a bass whole in one bite and grabbing another with his powerful hands. He finished the second one in one bite, like you would a shrimp. He tossed aside the tail fin and continued.
The fishman were lucky there were no humans yet, as their feast made splashes up the river. They had all eaten their fill, which was crucial to last nights recovery. They swam now, rested and full, strength recovered. The River began to widen and deepen, before finally opening up into the ocean. In the sunlight, the fishman could see the destruction unlike last night. Underwater, from their hiding place at the mouth of tributary they could see humans diving and searching the debris. They watched as bodies of their friends and families were tied together and floated with air balloons to the surface. Above them, 5 small boats searched the ships wreckage that hadn’t sunk and collected the bodies floated up. Midas knew that they would then be skinned, and the golden scales collected to be sold. He would never let them get away with this atrocity.
“They will pay for this…. But let us approach smart and strike viciously. Show them what they have wrought upon themselves. Augusto and Leon, you take care of the divers down below. We’re in the water so you’ll have the advantage. They seem to be armed with spears, and harpoon guns. While you strike low, and draw them down I’ll strike from above, while destroying the Air buoys so we can give our family the proper burial they deserve.” The brothers nodded in agreement and slowly began to creep down the cliff. Midas held his position and allowed them to get into place.
Deeper down the cliff Leon swam, moving smooth and quick, but not too fast as to draw the human’s attention. They had rudimentary diving gear, large tanks of air with tubes to their helmets. He thought they must only have had twenty to thirty minutes of breathing. He looked back to see his younger but larger brother keeping up, but a slower pace. He was larger and needed to be more careful. They both stopped about fifty feet deep and let their tunics flow to disturb their shape. They hung close to the wreckage of the main ship, as to look like trapped seaweed.
“Look Leon, those two are making their way to the back of this ship. I think I see… Caiman’s body. See, the sun catches his scales and they’ve noticed.” Augusto pointed for Leon to get a look. The divers were making a B line for the body and they were alone. Both wielded spears, but one had a harpoon gun attached to his leg with a holster. “I’ll take the one with the Harpoon gun, you take the other one. Let’s dip around and take them out quickly.” Augusto nodded at his brother’s commands, and they split up, Leon heading down left and himself right, ducking and creeping through the wreckage with the grace only a fish in water could have. Augusto reached his target first, and hit behind the bottom piece of wood, it’s large shadow further adding to hide him from sight. He pulled his tunic over his face so that only his eye were showing. He saw his brother moving into position to get his target. He was much swifter a swimmer, and more adept as well. He gracefully, and selectively moved between floating debris as he closed in on his target. Leon let his brother take the right side with the wreckage do to his size, but he could quickly hop debris to debris in one powerful kick. Below him the harpooned armed diver was just getting to the ship. Leon looked out around them to see how far the other humans were. They seemed to be moving in squads of two, about 4 squads total. Seeing that they weren’t under observation, Leon looked to Midas who gave the go ahead. Turning first to his brother to pass on the go, then locking sights on the harpoon man, Leon launched out from the sinking mast he had hidden behind. His body shot through the air, propelled by his strength and heritage Leon took a huge bite from the Man’s neck and made sure to get the tubing as well. Blood poured into a cloud around them, and in the confusion, Leon removed the harpoon gun from it’s holster and quickly swam off, catching the eye of the other diver. The human swam towards his friend but it would be in vain. As soon as he turned his focus to the blood, Augusto began to move, his muscles rippling as he rocketed forward. Leon was faster in general, but Augusto was powerful, and when he used his muscles to swim in quick bursts, he was the fast of the three. He too imitated his brothers strike and went for the neck. His assault was overkill though, and the last divers head was simply removed from his body. Augusto swallowed his neck and spit out the tubes from his diving set up. The brother moved then to Caiman’s body, which was pinned between some wooden beams. They gently removed the arrows from his body, as the diver Leon attacked finally drown to death.
Once they had the body free, Midas looked to the other groups of divers. There were three left, 6 total underwater. He knew not what the boats above held but it was his time to attack. The divers had been talking to each other using signs with their arms, and two groups moved down to Leon and Augusto, while one headed up, to warn the ships he assumed. He grabbed the rock he hid behind and then crouched back, before kicking off and throwing himself forward, erupting from the bank towards the divers heading to the surface. Due to the sunny day, the two groups heading down would have trouble looking up and seeing him. He would start his assault up, cut off reinforcements and then attack from above to back up Leon and Augusto. Once they regrouped they would assault the boats together, from the depths. Midas reached the first diver thirty feet below the surface and bite out his neck with his powerful jaw. At the depth the blood would be visible in a few minutes. The second diver saw his partner go down and raised his harpoon gun as fast as he could. Midas could see the fear in his eyes as he pulled the trigger, the harpoon propelling towards were Midas once was. He deftly changed direction in the water as the diver got his shot aligned, the harpoon missing it’s target. Midas snarled and continued towards the diver, who drew a knife and thrust it at the approaching Dorado. He easily knocked the forearm of the human with the back of his wrist and watched as the knife sink quickly, almost as quickly as Midas’s fangs sunk into the Humans clavicle and neck. His hard bite shattered his collar bone and upper shoulder blade. If he was above water, the mans scream would be heard far and wide, but down here under the waves, only bubbles carried the pain and agony; and no one could hear those. He left the bodies to float up and figured they would notice the blood and bubbles in a few seconds. He flexed his leg muscles and began to swim down to his two charges, who seemingly began battle.
Leon used his speed to get in close to the first diver before he could use his harpoon and unleashed his favorite technique, Piranha Feasting. He pummeled the man with three blows to the chest, knocking the wind out of him. Augusto had caught up to that diver’s partner and grabbed the spear that was thrust at him. The humans were slow in the water and easy to overpower; Augusto threw an open palm. The Shark Breaching open palm crushed the drivers torso, and he was thrown through the water; past the last group. The divers had their harpoon guns out, and opened fire on Augusto and Leon, who both easily dodged. They didn’t even bother to move as Midas came tearing through, Bashing both divers with one swing of a piece of ship he picked up. Augusto and Leon joined Midas and the three continued back to the surface. “We just need to clear the boats and recover the bodies.” Little needed to be said. On the way up to the surface they stopped to pop a balloon that carried several bodies. Most were the women and children Midas had instructed to escape. From the look of the injuries, they went deep and likely got caught in the lingering depth charge explosions. Another failure that his leadership brought about. “We found Kaiman as well… In the Main ship wreckage. We’ll finish this and give them a proper burial.” Leon said as they began to go up to the ships. Arrows began to rain down, the reality of the situation reached them. The large craft seemed to hold the arrow shooters, and the four smaller boats began to make for the shore.
“They must have the bodies on the smaller ships, Big one runs distraction/protection. Listen, I won’t risk you anymore than I have. I’ll charge the main ship and get their attention. When the arrows slow and stop, you two head for the smaller ships and stop them. We don’t know our enemies numbers but use the water to your advantage. If they get to land we’ll be in trouble. Remember your lessons, and forms, you are both capable warriors.” The brothers nodded, and Midas set off for the main ship. They followed for a ways but broke off and took cover as he pulled up dodging arrows. The surface was fast approaching and Midas breached, flying through the air. He ripped the seaweed tunic off and threw it at the first two archers on the bow, and landed in a crouch behind them. He spun with a low leg and knocked their footing, rising mid spin on his pivot foot, he kept the momentum going and raised the low leg. Continuing the spin, he kicked the archers again as they were midair, and sent them flying to the water. Midas stop and quickly accessed the enemies on the deck. There were four in front of him, and three more behind them. The archers were beginning to regain their composer and started to draw again. Midas knew this was the opening Augusto and Leon would need to slip by. He needed to keep the fight and their attention on him. He dashed forth, staying low as possible without sacrificing speed. He reached the first cluster as the back three shot their arrows. He grabbed the first man by the bow and opposite shoulder, crouching behind him and using him as a human shield. He took the three arrows and was tossed aside to the water. One of the close fighters had been smarter and drew his sword as Midas drew near and now swung vertically down, attempting to remove his right arm. Midas took a solid step towards the advancing enemy and planted his foot before unleashing a quick Flurry of blows, Piranha Feasting. The punches landed in quick succession, the first hitting the sword arm wrist, the next his elbow and finally his chest. The strength of the blows shattered his wrist and elbow, and the chest shot threw him back off the ship. “Any more of you filth want some…” Growled Midas. The closest two men turned to run but not fast enough. He stepped forward forcing both palms into their backs “Shark Breaching!” His palms slammed into their spines, but before he could fly away he snapped his primed fingers shut, grabbing their shirts. Both men spewed blood from their mouths at the force of the Palm attack and were promptly thrown into the water on either side of the ship; by the flick of Midas’ wrists.
The last three men readied themselves with their swords and the yells started from the four smaller boats behind them. The men turned giving Midas a moment to also look ahead. Looks like they were smart with their assault and attacked the first 2 boats first in order to hault progression. All the boats carried 2 men… and a pile of Golden Dorado Fishman. Augusto had crushed the bottom of one boat, sinking it and getting the bodies into the water. Judging by the blood that bubbled up, he finished the job. Leon brought the fight on board, both men laid dead and the boat was halted. He leapt towards the next boat as Midas snapped back to his reality. The men were advancing now, swords at the ready. He would need speed to combat the blades and prepared for a Piranha Feasting. The first human came into range and Midas fired off his first punch, breaking the mans jaw, he then kicking him in the chest with his second move, throwing the body into the second attacker. His Final punch with his left fist, ended up in the neck of the final attacker, sending him down with a gurgle. Midas moved towards the man he had sent unbalanced by throwing his buddy and snapped his neck. The humans are puny and weak when you fight fair… Scum.. thought Midas as he moved to the rear of the boat. Augusto and Leon were pushing the last of their tribe’s bodies into the water. They surveys the area and saw no other humans, somberly they all dove into the water.
They gathered the bodies and buried them in the sea bed in the ocean near by. Stones they carved with steel from the ships allowed them to leave messages. Midas buried the four masters near a large rock formation and left messages of their power and will to teach the next generation. For his Parents, he left a message of enduring, and love. Augusto and Leon finished burying their parents, and the three continued to bury the other dozen or so tribe members. The sat and prayed and thought on their people. The Golden Dorado were driven from their homes on fishman island decades ago. In their exile they grew strong and tough, determined to survive any threat. They were not finished yet, as three lived and carried on their ways. “We will bring pride to our people, and pass on the Golden Tide for to the next generation. We will rebuild… I promise you. These humans all will pay for what has happened here.”
Augusto and Leon made eye contact, which was noticed by Midas. He stood from his kneeled position. “Speak, what it is?” He could feel something was off with the two, and if they were to survive, he would need to get to the bottom of it. Augusto was first to speak. “I mean no disrespect Master Midas, but you’re letting hatred cloud your mind! Yes humans see us differently, but we are different. You cannot hate them all for the actions of a few. It doesn’t make sense and will make this journey harder for us. We will need to learn to work with the humans, as they too are enslaved, we are not the only ones. I say we find a nearby village and see what we can learn. We will need supplies for the trip anyways.” Midas took in his words and felt anger within himself, Lean watched silently to see what would happen.
Midas looked at them both a few times and with a flutter of fins turned to face out into the sea. I am their leader now, and Augusto speaks true. I am angry and I do hate the humans… While they may deserve it, it will in fact cloud my judgement. The boy grows wise. Leon is watching me as well, he didn’t speak much during the attacks either. He is observing and even though he is my junior, his technique and speed are no Joke. He could easily surpass me with proper training. They are both fine men to have with me, and I must live up to their expectations and grow stronger and wiser. If they could grow into a great force, they could take over the seas if they wanted, unite Fishman Island and do whatever they want and truly live free.
“You’re right Augusto, I am clouded by anger, and not all humans are to blame. I let this get Jobu and Kaiman killed. If we were stronger we could have saved them… We could have done something. Next time we will. We will prepare and get what we need to move out, we need to train and strengthen ourselves for the road ahead.” The Brothers nodded, their faith in Midas restored a bit. A calm set over the group, as they sat in the burial place of their people with the whole ocean in front of them. Augusto broke the silence first, asking if anyone else was hungry. The group agreed in unison they would hunt. “We should find a village as well to get supplies, perhaps we head upriver once more and grab fish on the way?” The logic sounded good to Midas, and the three swam once more past their old village and into the river. Th sun was starting to set so they would be hard to spot in the murky depths which also made catching food easier. They swam for most the evening, eating their fill on river bass and the occasional turtle they caught basking. They were known as the river tigers for nothing, these close water ways were their specialty. The river eventually began to open up more and they made out boats from below. Meeting at the bottom of the harbor, they looked up at the docks from below with the moon light illuminating the scene. “You two already know I’d like to take what we need now and leave during the night but I know you want to give the humans a chance, should we wait until morning and try this like ‘civilized’ people?” He couldn’t help smiling at civilized, from what he’d seen of the humans, they were saints. Leon yawned and floated back doing an imitation of laying in a bed. “I could rest up until morning, you’re not tired?” Midas shrugged, fatigue was beginning to set in now that he thought about it. They had an eventful few day to say the least. They turned to Augusto who was already getting cozy himself. Midas found a nice spot on the seabed and made a quick pillow of seaweed. “See you in the morning then.”
The three Golden Dorado fishmen slept great that night, they had put their family to rest and gotten revenge. They awoke to the suns rays filtering through the waves, their warm felt even in the depths below. “Well, if we’re to get supplies, we’ll need money.” Midas statement stumped the two brothers. I guess fish could net them some coin. Midas looked at his hand for a few seconds, remembering why his people were sought after. “Our scales… they are worth a lot. They do grow back as well. Let us use human’s greed to our advantage this time.” The group swam up to the shore as Midas removed 5 golden scales from his wrist. They found some sails from a boat near by that they fashioned into loose tunics again like the sea weed. Into town they headed, the three fishman drawing plenty of looks. Though surrounded by a forest, the town was very unhealthy looking. Trash littered the streets and tall stacks released smoke as factories roared with work. Though despite the mess, there was an air of money and wealth as people went about their day. Augusto was pleasant and smiled, sometimes waving to kids, Leon and Midas walked with a straight face. They saw the appraisers store ahead in a square and figured that would be the best place to get offered some coin. They pushed through the crowd of people blocking the square, they seemed to be caught in a trance how captured their attention was. Midas turned to see a gallows, with a line of four humans ready to be hung. The board display said they were escaped slaves who were re-captured. “The humans even enslave their own people?” Asked Leon is surprise. Midas nodded grimly, and you two want to be buddy buddy with them.” The group was through the crowd and heading towards the appraiser’s door when they heard the shout to pull the ropes. The crowds cheers were cut off by the door closing. A small shrewd looking man looked up from his desk at the fishman. He was mesmerized by the golden gleam their scales let off in the light of the shop. Midas stepped forward ad turned his hand over, dumping the 5 scales on the desk. “These are golden scales, you can investigate for yourself and see. I’m looking to sell them for belli.” Said Midas to the man, whose eye lit up. He grabbed a small peering object and investigated. He seemed happy with what he found and pulled out a bag of belli. “How is 1000? And come back If you ever feel like shedding more!”
The Midas took the bag and turned to leave, Leon following. Augusto bowed and left after the other two. “Well that was easy…” Said Leon skeptically. Midas grunted in agreement but for the moment it looked like they were ok. He looked around as they left the shop. There was still quite the crowd from the hanging, and people were loitering about. Leon caught sight of a shady bunch of humans looking at their money and nudged Midas. Augusto followed the physical ques and traced the eye motion as well, seeing the men, nefarious looking. “Looks like we caught some attention,” said Midas, “How about we get a boat.” The other two nodded and the group headed towards the docks nearby. Midas was thinking a small craft, maybe 300 or 400 belli, would be plenty left over for supplies. They could just catch fish but would need various tools and such for the journey.
They approached a large building with a walk-up window, and a weathered sign that said Shipyard. “We’re looking for a small boat, something simple to sail,” He looked back past the receptionist and pointed out a small craft with blue sails, “That one is actually perfect, how much?” The women turned to look at the boat and then back to him, telling him the cost was 450. He looked at it again and shrugged. “Alright we’ll take it. He handed the money over and she had some men lower the ship into the bay. She instructed the three to follower her, and they headed down a hallway to the left. On the other end was the docks and bay, and the ship was sitting before them. “I hope you enjoy; this quick little guy moves fast with some wind behind it.” Midas nodded and Augusto smiled and thanked the women again. She left the three to head back to her position at the desk. The Golden Dorado fishmen stepped aboard their little craft and smiled to each other. This was the beginning of something great. In their excitement, they hadn’t noticed he humans from earlier looking on from a few docks away, on their own boat. The fishman took the boat out to the water and ran it’s paces, adjusting the sail to catch the wind, cutting through waves and maneuvering swells. After a few hours they had all gotten familiar with how it handled, that way all could man the rudder if needed. They could always abandon ship in the worse case but the boat saved them from long distance swimming.
“Alright we have a ship. Leon, do you want to gather fish to eat while I head into the town for the other supplies? Augusto, you’ll watch the ship and the money and stay out with Leon with the boat. I don’t want us near that town if I can help it, there was a lot of people who saw us today.” Midas spoke to the brothers as he directed the craft back towards the town. “Are you sure splitting up is wise?” Asked Leon, “Perhaps staying in a group will keep our fighting power up to defend.” Augusto didn’t speak, knowing his age he let those two make the decisions. He dragged his hand in the water lazily as the boat cruised back towards the shore. Midas pondered Leon’s idea. If they were attacked it would be better if they were together. He wanted to keep numbers low in exposure areas but if trouble started he would be alone. Leon’s point had credence. “Sure, we aren’t really in a rush anyways right. No need to really split up yet.” The boat sailed on as the village came into view, it was a beautiful scene before the canon fire started. All around them water exploded in tall plumes as a large ship approached from behind a cove. Midas took evasive maneuvers in the boat and continued for the village. He was hoping the local marines or militia would hear the canon fire and assist the out gunned boat. “Augusto, Leon, give us a boost on either side!” Midas shouted from the helm, dodging another onslaught on cannon balls. Leon and Augusto would jump in on each side and grab the boat with one arm, and started swimming, to propel it forward. With the boost, the small ship was able to get out of range of the cannons fairly quick. They were close to land now and saw a port; The Larger ship had ceased it’s chase once it was clear they wouldn’t be catching up. August and Leon hoped back in the boat as they approached port.
It was a decent size if not a bit modest, the docks were well built though and even though they stared the people didn’t seem threatening. They tied off the ship as a harbor master and a few dock hands approached.
“Hey now, we don’t want any trouble, just want to see whose docking. We heard the canon fire, are you all ok?” asked the man, his bushy mustache enveloping his upper lip completely. Leon stepped forward, the smallest and least imposing. They didn’t want to start trouble here when there was an enemy ship blocking their escape.
“Hello, we too don’t want any trouble. The canons were from a larger ship that almost got us, but we made it here.” The man shook his head sadly, “My apologies, they are a brazen group of slavers that has been terrorizing our coast for months now.” The mention of slavers perked something in all the fishman, and the air changed. Midas stepped forward now. “We intended to just grab supplies and head out, but you’re telling me there are slaves on that ship?” The man nodded, “Unfortunately yes, there are more as well around the cape that they keep as a base.” Augusto looked in the direction of where the ship had appeared from, to the north west. “No one has gone to stop them? You seem to know where they are?” Blurted Midas, not angerly but confused. “We have tried, and many good men have either died or been captured themselves. We have reached out to the local marines, but these men pay them off and continue their business.” The marines were local law keepers; Midas remembered from his lessons as a youth about the upper world.
“Alright, show us where we can get supplies for our journey. We’ll think of a plan for the slavers.” The Harbor master bid them to follow him, and he lead them along the docks. They held up well, even with the sea beating on them, the wood was holding very well. The Harbor master was a bit overweight, top heavy. Midas could make out half a dozen hairs poking out of his ears. Humans were funny like that, hair in odd places and Ironic thought Midas that The Harbor master was losing his top hair. They came to a gather point in the town, an open space with a raised platform, likely for announcements. Around the square were various tables and shops, half though were closed and boarded up. “Yes, it’s because of the slavers that these are closed. Well this is where you can get supplies. I’ll leave you to your business then. If you do take care of the slavers I’m sure the towns people will reward you.” At that, the man turned and headed back to the docks. Midas took out the bells he had left over from when he got the ship and split it up between Augusto and Leon.
“We’re going to need rope, a bit of food, and some weapons if you can. I’m going to scout a bit and see what we can find out. Once you’re done let’s meet at the ship.” Augusto and Leon nodded and watched as Midas turned and headed toward the North West coast to get a look at the slaver camp. “Well, he didn’t even think twice that they were human slaves a step in the right direction eh? The Harbor Master situation went smooth too.” Leon nodded, agreeing with his younger brother. Together they walked towards the nearest stalls and were drawn to a shipping supply. As Midas instructed, they bought a good amount of rope. Leon knew this was to have backups incase the sails hit some nasty winds and the ropes went, didn’t want to be caught unable to adjust the sails. They also bought some barrels for storage, extra sail linen for repairs and various tools. Moving on they came to food, and with some help was able to figure out what would hold and store best and combined best with fish, which they would still be catching. Finally, they came to weapons, but were running low on cash. All they ended up being able to afford were three crappy swords, but the edges were sharp, and they were strong so he figured it would work out. They gathered the supplies and headed to the ship, their immense strength helping. Once on the boat, Augusto placed the food in one barrel, and the rope and sails in another. Midas emerged from the water shortly after, shooting from it’s calm surface, and landing on the dock smoothly.
“I trust supplies went good then?” Midas said knocking a knuckled on the barrels. “Sails, rope tools, and food. Not to mention, these works of art.” He rolled his eyes tossing Midas a rough looking sword. He stuck it into the wood railing next to him, seemed sharp enough for humans. “We can wait for the sun to go down before we move, I was able to swim there quite easily. We’ll leave the ship and get close so we can assess the situation better, when was the last time we trained?” Augusto and Leon looked up pondering and realized it had been awhile. After securing all the new goodies in their right place on the ship, The three fishman leapt overboard into the water. The harbor wasn’t too deep but gave them enough space to keep an eye on the boat and have space to train. All three Golden Dorado fishman began to stretch and loosen up in the calm waters, it always felt better being submerged than on the surface to Midas. The water was cool on his scales and didn’t dry him out like the air did over time. Once they were limbered up, the brothers took a position facing each other and began to spar. Midas, on his own, began to practice his forms slowly at first, and slowly increasing to fighting speed. He always did this gradual increase to first get the form, and then the power. He was still low on the totem pole of fishman karate but having never been to the island and learning what was passed down wasn’t the ideal way to learn. He had heard stories of great practitioners dealing even more damage but using the water to their advantage. As he practiced his forms now, he tried to extend and reach out to the water. His punches remained punches, his kicks moved through the water, but not with it. Midas didn’t allow himself to get upset as he was still learning, but he needed to get it down soon. They were out in the world alone now and his power would be needed to protect Leon and Augusto. They would make it together though as anything he learned to get stronger, they would learn. After he ran through his forms, he began to mediate while Augusto and Leon continued to spar. After about an hour, the fishman wrapped up and swam back to the surface. The sun was beginning to drop and the three grabbed some fish they caught earlier to eat.
Liberation of the Mind and Body
“Not that I don’t think we should do this Midas but why are you so taken at helping the humans?” Asked Leon, as he finished attaching the sword to his belt. Leon really enjoyed this change in Midas and was fully behind the liberation of the slaves.
“I thought firstly of our kind being slaves, and then projected this understanding to the humans. The harbor master also genuinely seemed concerned with our safety after seeing we were attacked. The fact that he tried doing what he’s supposed to, by report it to the marines, and they just ignore him? Infuriates me as If they allow it for humans…. They probably celebrate it for us. Sympathizing with him for a moment, I realized he’s probably feeling as helpless as we are right now, with a fraction of the strength. Why not lend out a little help? If not for the good karma, perhaps the warrior’s way?” Midas smiled knowing he didn’t need to make an excuse as to why he wanted to help.
The sun had finally set and the Fishmen were moving from their boat, toward the location of the slaver base. They moved a few feet under water as to not disturb the surface and give away their approach. A surprising calm came over the trio as if the tide and current were just right, more so they were doing something that felt right. They counted 2 large ships, with a few smaller craft to move between ships and the camp. They floated under the boats for a while, discussing what the best plan of attack would be. The three then decided to swim out to the tip of the curve of the mountain so they could see the on-land base. The beach was fortified with walls and barriers and there were three large buildings on the edge of the beach. Behind the buildings were a few trees, but then steep mountains.
“There isn’t much place for them to run, if we were attack the means of escape would be the ships. Like usual, seems to be that taking the ship would be the best option to cut off an escape.” Offered Leon, Midas nodded. The land didn’t leave them much chance, but they could hide in the trees. “Where are they keeping the slaves, shouldn’t we try to secure their safety before launching an attack?” Midas nodded again and continued to observe. Of the three buildings, the two story farthest from them seemed to have minimal guards, and it was the largest building. If he had to guess probably would be staff housing. There was a single story building closer smaller than the other two, but much heavier guarded. “I think that’s what we’ll be dealing with for the slaves, see how many guards there are?” Augusto nodded, now paying more attention to the armed humans, where they stood and the routes they seemed to be moving. “If we were to free them first, I’m not sure we could guarantee their safety, perhaps they would or could fight. We also don’t know how many or what condition they’re in.” Midas nodded, great points coming from Leon, he could dissect a situation very quickly. “We also need to consider after the fact, getting the slaves back to the town. We shouldn’t take out both of the ships, keep one to evacuate.”
Midas has his plan formulated. “Alright here’s what we’ll do. Augusto and I will head into the water while Leon, you’ll move to the forest from here and wait for our signal, May be a while. We’ll twist up the anchors for the ships so they won’t be able to move far even if they try to escape. After that, I’ll sneak on to the farthest ship and search for slaves. I’ll be as quiet as I can, but I assume they’ll raise the alarm. Augusto will be in the water waiting for the smaller boats and cut off reinforcements. Once the battle starts, Leon you’ll come in from behind in the woods and see if you can free the slaves and join us on the beach. They can retreat to the tree line if they don’t want to fight.” Each of the brothers thought about their role, and how it was a sound plan. No one would be too far away to support each other should things go wrong.
“Well I guess it’s time then right? Let’s do it.” Leon stuck around as Midas and Augusto leapt into the water and started to swim for the boats. Leon watched them go on for a few more minutes before he began to move towards the woods. Depending on how quiet Midas was he may be waiting for a while.
Midas and Augusto reached the sea floor under the two ships and split up to grab their anchors. Once they lifted them, they carefully swam around each other, looping the chains together and then dropped them again gently; to not disturb the chains. Once linked, Augusto swam to the front most large ship and kept and eye on the smaller transport boats and held his position. Observing them, he noted that they seemed to be moving things off the large boats for the night. He couldn’t tell much else, but kept and eye on things and waited for Midas’ signal.
On the beach, or more specifically the woods behind, Leon was making his way to what they believed was the slave holding building. He sat for a bit, waiting to see if there were any guard rotations around back, and it seemed there wasn’t. With the marines paid off and the villages would be warriors captured or dead, they probably thought they didn’t need to guard. He moved closer to the building and looked in a window, he saw two dozen humans chained around the room. Their Shackles allowed them to sit, but limited their arms to having to rest or hang on the chains at chest level; an purposely evil design. He counted 4 guards at a table in the center of the room, playing cards; also humans. He took a step back and decided to check out the other buildings in the meantime. He went to the farther, second floor building and looked in. Looks like the first floor was an armory, and the second floor was bunks if the sign wasn’t lying. He stepped back again and got a look at the beach. There were 3 bonfires with about 3 people around each, another 10 men were on the little boats. He wasn’t sure what would be on the larger boats but Midas would take care of that. His loose plan was to wait for the guards to respond, and then come through the window to save them.
Midas has slowly climbed up the back end of the ship and peaked over the to the desk from where he thought safest. He counted three men on the deck who seemed to be packing up a smaller boat with supplies to lower into the water. “We lost that one boat earlier, but that last haul was great!” Exclaimed the man farthest from Midas. The man he was working with responded, “Yea no more slaves but plenty of supplies. We need to sell this stuff quick so we can pay for more protection.” Midas watched as the third man came from below ship, followed by 3 others all carrying boxes. “That’s it on this boat, we’ll unload the next and be done for the night. You four pick 2 to stay on the ship as guard. The remaining 2 lowered the others on the small boat and out of his view. That was interesting, they could use this ship to escape then. He heard the splash from the smaller boat and waited a few minutes as the two guards came to the seaside rail to look into the night. Midas climbed around and snuck up behind them. He quickly knocked them out. He moved through the ship and made sure no one else was there, which seemed to be the case. He saw signs of people though, scratch marks and blood on the sides of the hull, tons of chains and holding cells. His anger rose as his did, but to the top deck. He saw the group of slavers that left had reached the next boat, and the fact that they were tasked with emptying it also seemed to imply it was also empty. He dove from the desk into the water below, with little in the way of a splash. Augusto was surprised to see him as he had been waiting for trouble and commotion to start his attack.
“As you noticed, the little boats are pulling back to the beach. The far ship is empty, and I believe this one is as well as the ones who were responsible for cleaning out the far boat headed there next. We still need a commotion though, to draw out the slave guards and give Leon a chance to evacuate them.” Midas said, looking up to survey the water. They only needed one large ship… he could start the commotion on the still occupied boat to draw people away from the beach and buildings. “I’ll go start trouble on the ship, be ready”
Midas swam to the large, closer boat of the two. The human scum slavers had already boarded, their lifeboat above Midas. He swam under the ship to the opposite side and began to climb up. At the top, he had deja vu with the last ship, as there were 2 posted men, the other three should be below deck gathering supplies. He lunged on to the desk, making sure to make as much noise as possible, and quickly drew the crappy sword. He rushed the closest human and sliced him from right hip to left shoulder. He yelled, and his companion took a step towards him before rethinking the decision and turned to the alarm bell. Midas pretended to rush towards him and then let him ring the bell, he headed below deck as the man’s back was turned to sound the alarm. Midas heard scuffles and footsteps coming up from below, no doubt curious about the alarm going off. He clutched his sword and readied himself.
Augusto faintly heard the alarm bell ringing from below the waves and turned to face the beach. The smaller boats were pushing off towards the one Midas was on. Augusto swam in front of submerged, once it was in position, he shot his arm up and grabbed the bow, and forcefully pulled it under water. The boat popped back up but not before the humans were dumped under with Augusto. Even using the crappy sword, the men stood no chance submerged.
Leon was looking through the window when he heard the bell start ringing. The Guards playing cards suddenly looked up confused and slowly got up. They talked amongst them selves and two headed out the front door. Leon took a step back, and then propelled his way through the window, and rolled coming up right in front of the guard on the right. He drew the sword mid roll and chopped the man’s arm off using the momentum. His partner looked stunned to see a fishman appear but only for a moment. He had his pistol drawn just as Leon slide the blade in his diaphragm. The slaves all looked at him in wonder as he searched the bodies for the key. The first target had it in his chest pocket. He went to the first man chained up and unlocked him and handed him the Key.
“Listen! This man will free you. With me are two other fishmen, we can free you. If you cannot or will not fight, go out the back window and hide in the trees until the battle is over. Anyone who can fight, get your revenge!”
He then left out through the front door and Midas and Augusto on the beach fighting. The two of them were facing off against a dozen men. He ran across the sand and with an overhead swing sunk his blade in to the man in the back of the pack. He screamed out in pain, drawing the attention of the men to look behind them.
Midas saw the moment when their attention faltered and rushed in swinging the blade. Augusto followed his lead and pressed the attack as well. Combined with Leon and the slaves, they made quick work of the enemy.
“Augusto, can you untangle the Anchors?” Augusto nodded and waded into the water until he sunk out of view beneath the waves. “You’re free now, the harbor master of your village let us know of your plight. Being fishmen know of slavery unfortunately very well. We hope you enjoy your second go at freedom. The boats are empty, lets head back.”
They used the small boats, to head to the larger one, and then back to the port. It was early morning when the ship pulled in but the town was out with their weapons, prepared to fight. They likely thought the fishman had failed but once realizing the port turned in to a celebration.
The three fishman looked on from the boat smiling. “We did some good huh?” Chuckled Augusto. Midas nodded, feeling extremely fulfilled. Leon and Augusto smiled at each other, the Midas they knew a few weeks ago wouldn’t be smiling at helping humans. “I like granting them their freedom, the liberation. I can’t wait to free some of our own brethren. Perhaps they would join us…” Midas imagined then a crew of fishman cruising the waves, taking down the corrupt government that ‘allowed’ others to be in chains.
Midas’ thoughts were interrupted by the Harbor master and other villagers, rushing over to their ship to thank them. They smiled and waved and had no answer for their questions of what comes next.