Erin Solstice woke up. She stared up at the wooden ceiling overhead and had a flash of panic. Things felt different. She twisted\u2014and saw a pillow next to her. And then a drop.<\/p>\n
She was lying in a bed. Her bed. And then Erin remembered. She was in her room, the first room by the stairs on the second floor of the inn. This was where she slept now.<\/p>\n
Her bed in the kitchen was gone. And as Erin got up, she stretched and stared at the brightening landscape through a glass window. She still rose with the dawn, some days. Even though she didn\u2019t have to. Old habits died hard.<\/p>\n
And then Erin remembered last night, and her lips compressed. She stared at Liscor, just a ten minute walk from her inn. The [Innkeeper] made a fist and shook it at the inn.<\/p>\n
\u201cOlesm. You jerk.\u201d<\/p>\n
And that was all. Erin sighed. She closed her eyes and folded her arms. In her pajamas\u2014thin cotton, breezy, and with a tail slit that Erin really didn\u2019t need\u2014the young woman thought. She shook her head.<\/p>\n
\u201cNope. I\u2019m still mad.\u201d<\/p>\n
Selys had been in tears<\/em> yesterday after Olesm had shown up at Lism\u2019s rally and essentially thrown a huge stone in Krshia\u2019s campaign. Erin got why he\u2019d done it\u2014the Drake\u2019s argument had been the talk of the inn. You can\u2019t trust the Antinium. Build the city yourself. And if it were anyone other than Lism saying it, Erin might have understood.<\/p>\n But she was still mad. So Erin left her room. She paused in the hallway. Someone was already up. A green Hobgoblin paused, holding one of the simple toothbrushes Erin had given him. Guiltily, he swallowed.<\/p>\n \u201cMorning, Numbtongue. Are you eating toothpaste again? I told you, rinse and spit!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin gently glared at the taller Hobgoblin. The [Bard] hid the small tin of toothpaste behind his back.<\/p>\n \u201cIt tastes good.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight, but I\u2019m sure it\u2019s bad for your stomach! It\u2019s got chemicals and\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Erin trailed off. She distinctly recalled seeing Numbtongue eat a rock<\/em> once when he was bored. And he ate bugs. And leaves. She raised a finger.<\/p>\n \u201cYou know, Mrsha could see. And that\u2019s a bad example.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue stared at her. Erin stared back.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Anyways, good morning.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood morning.\u201d<\/p>\n They headed downstairs together. Erin glanced at Numbtongue. He wasn\u2019t wearing his leather armor. Or any armor today. That was a good sign; the Redfang warrior usually dressed as if he were about to go into combat even when he was lounging around. But today he only had a tank top on, leggings\u2014he looked casual<\/em>. He still carried the guitar on his back, which Erin supposed was some form of security; Numbtongue seemed to regard it as both club and musical instrument. But as he sat at a table, shifting his guitar out of the way, she saw how relaxed he truly was.<\/p>\n It was what Erin wanted to see. But she wished\u2014she closed her eyes. Oh, how she wished there were five Hobgoblins sitting there, not one. Six; a little Goblin among them, scowling like always. An army.<\/p>\n But that was how Erin felt every day. That was her regret. Her failure. And she had lived with that in her heart for enough time to not dwell on it. It was part of her. Sadness became memory. And she had bigger fish to fry. If she stopped, who would feed Numbtongue?<\/p>\n \u2026Probably himself. He knew where the food was. But Erin went and got a fish anyways. She had a fresh one, preserved from the rainy season thanks to her [Field of Preservation] Skill. It was a hearty meal for breakfast, but Numbtongue ate like a Hobgoblin still. And he had virtually no fat! Then again, his idea of a relaxing day was mining for eight hours after picking a hundred blue fruits after breakfast to warm up. So Erin laid the fish on the counter and eyed it.<\/p>\n \u201cBones out! Watch the fingers\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She flipped the fish over, eying it. The innards had been removed already; Erin knew enough about fish to understand that even preserved, a bunch of half-digested insects or whatever fish ate wasn\u2019t pleasant to have sitting around. The fish was, essentially, hollow, and the head stared blankly up at her. Erin shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cKnife!\u201d<\/p>\n So saying, she reached behind her, for the special kitchen knife she carried on her belt at all times. This one was carried in a custom-fitted leather sheath, and the knife itself was\u2014<\/p>\n Sharp.<\/em> Erin could barely see the edge, even up close. And while it bore no inscription or fancy decoration, the plain steel shone, more beautiful than any of the other knives in her kitchen. And it was, oh, so very deadly. Erin handled this knife with respect, more than the knife that had once cut open her palm. She sliced off the head along the gills, and absently checked herself before tossing it in the waste bin.<\/p>\n \u201cAcid Fly stuff. Where is\u2026? Ah.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin spotted a row of huge glass jars, along one wall. They were probably intended for pickling or something, but these large vessels were perfect. She tossed the fish head in one; it already had more meat scraps. And when Ishkr set it up, it would be prime Acid Fly bait.<\/p>\n Back to the fish. Next, Erin cut along the belly, separating the fish in two. She did so along the fish\u2019s ribcage. But the sharpness of her knife\u2014Erin barely ran her blade along the fish before it separated in two. She eyed the knife\u2019s edge and didn\u2019t check it with her finger; she\u2019d been told that was a good way to lose it.<\/p>\n \u201cWow. I cut through all the bones. Okay\u2026in that case\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n She had to get another knife to actually separate the bones out of the fish. A few precise cuts and they came out. Erin tossed the scraps in the jar, then cut the fish with her first knife. Five cuts on both sides: ten portions. Erin smiled. She wiped her knife carefully with a cloth, grabbed a pan, and got to work.<\/p>\n A few minutes later, Erin walked out of the kitchen with breakfast. Numbtongue looked up and surreptitiously hid the tin of toothpaste under the table. Erin pretended not to notice him swallowing; she lifted the plate.<\/p>\n \u201cFish! Half of one. Salted, seasoned\u2014and I\u2019ve got some mayo and that Gnoll sauce on the side. I know you love it. And here\u2019s breakfast for me.\u201d<\/p>\n She indicated a half dozen boiled eggs and a single serving of the fish. Erin set her plate down and handed three eggs to Numbtongue along with his five-portion fish. He brightened and grabbed a fork.<\/p>\n \u201cLooks good.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight? Let me know if you want more.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin sighed as she sat down. She regarded her plate, and her stomach rumbled. Erin smiled as she grabbed a cup she\u2019d brought out. It was filled with blue juice. Erin sipped it, sighed.<\/p>\n And then she got mad again. The joys of cooking had only distracted her from yesterday for so long. Erin made a fist.<\/p>\n \u201cOlesm. And Lism! What\u2019s wrong with Krshia\u2019s plan, huh? Do they not trust Klbkch that much? I can see the Queen\u2014she\u2019s a jerk. But Klbkch? Really?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue eyed Erin as he stuffed the first portion of fish into his mouth. He shrugged, classically Goblin. Erin went on, chewing on her fish.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd he put it in the newsletter! And basically stole<\/em> Krshia\u2019s plan! They can\u2019t get away with it. No way. You hear me, Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYep.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m going to do something. I\u2019m gonna blow Olesm\u2019s socks off.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin looked up as he ate one of the hard boiled eggs.<\/p>\n \u201cHow?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin stared at Numbtongue. He was eating the egg without bothering to peel it. She hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t ask me hard questions.\u201d<\/p>\n The two went back to breakfast. Erin glared at her food. She didn\u2019t have a plan, actually. But something had to be done! Olesm\u2019s betrayal was\u2014okay, she felt bad about badmouthing Lism. Family was family. But still!<\/p>\n \u201cGrr. Wow. These hard boiled goose eggs are good<\/em>. Why have I eaten only chicken eggs all my life? Grr.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue nodded amiably. Erin growled into her plate. Selys and Krshia had both tried to come up with a solution, but Selys had been too upset and Krshia too furious to think rationally. Their team\u2014Elirr, Raekea, the other Gnolls that Krshia had been hoping to put on the Council\u2014had disbanded in low spirits yesterday. And Zevara hadn\u2019t shown up after yesterday and Erin was worried she was being swayed to Lism\u2019s side.<\/p>\n \u201cThey gave her a good deal. So she\u2019s not all on Selys\u2019 side. Gotta think of something. But the Walled Cities are funding Lism. That Olesm. That\u2019s smart. Jerk move, but smart.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue licked his plate. Erin tapped her hand on the table.<\/p>\n \u201cYou know what? We\u2019re not done. Selys was planning on having Zevara wear the Heartflame Breastplate. Fat chance of that now. But there\u2019s something\u2026and it\u2019s not like the Gnolls don\u2019t have good candidates. People like<\/em> Krshia. And Raekea, that [Armorer]. I didn\u2019t know there were Gnoll [Blacksmiths], did you, Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. They probably have fire-resistance Skills.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Bard] strummed gently on his guitar, quietly to avoid waking the guests. Erin looked up at him.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s a thing?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMhm. Very nice Skills. Hard to get. Goblins like to have them. Especially in Garen\u2019s tribe.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo we can lay traps with exploding fire or spells and not worry about it. A Goblin stands on a trap with lots of wood. And oil. Angry Gargoyles attack him. Or adventurers. The Goblin sets off the trap and gets away. No one else.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. Cool?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot very.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue\u2019s teeth flashed. Erin blinked, and then laughed despite herself. He was telling jokes!<\/em> Sometimes she forgot how good Numbtongue was with words. And not just for a Goblin; she supposed that was why he was a [Bard].<\/p>\n \u201cRight. Well, I know I can do some things. But I want to make a huge impact, you know? I was fine with Krshia being on the Council, but now it\u2019s personal.<\/em> I have to help. I can get a lot of attention. But is that enough?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cExactly. Thank you, Numbtongue. You\u2019re always honest.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGot any more fish?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn the kitchen.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin thought as the Goblin got up. She was restless, drumming her fingers on the table. It was unusual for her. Usually, she was as placid as Numbtongue in the morning. But today? It felt like someone had poked her head from the inside. Now, Erin was lighting up. She was mad.<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cErin.\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman looked up as the Hobgoblin poked his head out of the kitchen. She focused on what he was holding. Numbtongue grinned hopefully.<\/p>\n \u201cCake?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019d you find\u2014no cake! I thought I hid that!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin glared. Numbtongue sighed. He patted his stomach.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m<\/em> hungry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd Mrsha\u2019s coming downstairs in a minute. If you have it, she\u2019ll want some. No cake.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin sighed. He put the cake back and came out with the rest of the fish on his plate. Erin went back to staring at her plate. Absently, she felt for the knife on her belt.<\/p>\n \u201cOlesm. I could stab him. With my knife.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue looked at Erin. She raised her hands.<\/p>\n \u201cHey! I\u2019m just brainstorming. No ideas are off the table. I\u2019m just really mad at him. I know his heart\u2019s in the right place. I wouldn\u2019t stab him too hard. Lism, now\u2026I suppose he\u2019d spin that too.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin nodded. He watched with interest as Erin\u2019s eyes unfocused. Numbtongue knew Erin. Or rather, he was understanding more about the strange Human who called him family. And unlike many of her guests and friends, the Hobgoblin was well aware of what Erin could do. Rather like a certain Wall Lord, actually. He waited, eating with interest. Learning.<\/em> And Erin\u2019s eyes lit up after three minutes of silence.<\/p>\n \u201cHold on. Selys. Heartflame Breastplate. Stabbing people with the kitchen knife\u2026cake. Yeah. I can work with this.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue paused. He stared at Erin and tried to connect the pieces.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat are you going to do?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019ll see.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin smiled as she got up. She walked back into the kitchen. The [Bard] stared at her back. He scratched his head, put down his guitar, and began doodling on the top of the table with a sharp claw.<\/p>\n \u201cCake. Plus knives and Heartflame Breastplate. And Selys. Stabbing people?\u201d<\/p>\n He was working on it when Lyonette and Mrsha came downstairs. The [Princess] called a greeting to the Hobgoblin.<\/p>\n \u201cGood morning, Numbtongue!\u201d<\/p>\n He looked up. A white shape raced downstairs. A nose appeared and then two big eyes. Numbtongue waved as two paws appeared. Mrsha signed to Numbtongue, smiling.<\/p>\n Good morning.<\/em> (Paw tracing a smile, two folded paws sideways, then rising to a forty-five degree angle.)<\/p>\n \u201cGood morning.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin smiled. He smiled at a Human and a Gnoll, and they smiled back. Miraculous. Mrsha sniffed Numbtongue\u2019s plate. He picked off a piece of fish and offered it to her. She snatched it.<\/p>\n \u201cMrsha! Numbtongue!<\/em> You eat off plates!\u201d<\/p>\n Guiltily, both Gnoll and Hobgoblin hunched their shoulders. Lyonette put her hands on her hips, shaking her head. Then she glanced at the kitchen.<\/p>\n \u201cIs Erin cooking?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNope. Making plans.\u201d<\/p>\n Lyonette hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s\u2026good. About the elections in Liscor, right? Did she say what she\u2019s doing, Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMaybe something involving stabbing.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin frowned, still trying to work it out. Lyonette paused.<\/p>\n \u201cOh.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Mrsha finished her piece of fish and scampered into the kitchen on all four paws. Lyonette and Numbtongue heard an exclamation, a delighted laugh, and not a second later, Mrsha was coming out proudly bearing a plate, cups, and silverware on two legs. She trundled over to their table and held them up. Numbtongue and Lyonette took the plate and set the rest on the table. The [Princess] smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cVery good, Mrsha. Good morning, Erin!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey Lyonette! Today\u2019s going to be a big day! How much cake and ice cream do we have? Oh\u2014here\u2019s some eggs and bacon. Numbtongue ate the rest of the fish.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSorry.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin offered Lyonette a last piece of fish, but the [Princess] shook her head. Mrsha\u2019s ears perked up at the words \u2018cake\u2019 and \u2018ice cream\u2019. The [Princess] sighed as she took the skillet Erin had come out of the kitchen with and doled out breakfast for both her and the Gnoll cub.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ve got two cakes, unless Numbtongue or Mrsha\u2019s eaten one when I haven\u2019t been looking. And enough ice cream ingredients for eight guests. Or two Relcs. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, we\u2019re going to need about triple of both. You know how to make both, right? Can I ask you to whip up some more?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBetter. Ishkr\u2019s coming in just a few minutes. He can help make the ice cream. Unless\u2014when do you need it? Because it melts, remember, Erin? And I\u2019ll have to get him to buy some ice. Which is expensive. Even more than sugar.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMake Ceria do it. She\u2019s free ice! And, uh, maybe store it in the basement? Her magic stuff disappears after half an hour, and I don\u2019t know when we\u2019ll need it. But we definitely need a bunch.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFor a party?\u201d<\/p>\n Lyonette sighed. Erin\u2019s eyes were sparkling. As were Numbtongue\u2019s and Mrsha\u2019s, mainly at the prospect of that much sugar. The [Innkeeper] smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cI have a plan to help with that election.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, so you are<\/em> going to interfere. Please tell me we\u2019re going to sell all that food?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMost of it. Yeah, get ready for a lot of sales! And\u2014we\u2019re going to need more of all our food, Lyonette. Pizza, hamburgers\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFood from your world?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Yes. Although lots of food in general is good. We\u2019re going to have a party.\u201d<\/p>\n The three diners at the table looked up. Lyonette glanced at Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re sure?\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman paused. Erin\u2019s eyes looked up, flickering from position to position. Seeing something in the distance.<\/p>\n \u201cI think so, yeah. I\u2019ve got this plan. It\u2019s got a lot of moving parts. And it\u2019s not quite<\/em> together. But I\u2019ve got something.\u201d<\/p>\n Lyonette exchanged a glance with Numbtongue and nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cTell me what you need. Food\u2014I can do food. I\u2019ll send Drassi to shop for ingredients. It\u2019ll take her a while; Krshia\u2019s stall is closed, obviously.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDo that. And get someone to tell the Players of Celum that I want them to come in early. They\u2019ll be performing Juliet and Romeo <\/em>or Hamlet.<\/em> Or Frozen<\/em>. Not Much Ado About Nothing<\/em>. Tell them to bring their best.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll do that, then.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin paced around, nodding absently. She glanced up with a frown.<\/p>\n \u201cThanks. Say, is Octavia bothering you? She wanted to talk to the Horns right when they got arrested, but I haven\u2019t spoken to her since\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe hasn\u2019t said anything to me. She\u2019s been quiet, really. It\u2019s almost a relief. Anything else?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMm. One last thing. Send Drassi with a message for\u2026Selys. Yeah. Just Selys. I\u2019ll work out the rest as I go.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGo where? I\u2019ll come.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue sat up. Erin smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry, Numbtongue. You can\u2019t. And it\u2019s a solo mission for now, anyways. Tell Ceria and Pisces I need them to stay in the inn.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGot it.\u201d<\/p>\n Lyonette watched Erin writing down her message on the parchment. Numbtongue stood up and went to read it. His brow furrowed further. He watched Erin fold it up, hand it to Lyonette, and then head to the magic door.<\/p>\n He was trying to understand. But as he watched Erin change the mana stones on the door, his brow suddenly cleared. He snapped his fingers.<\/p>\n \u201cAh.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be back!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin turned and smiled at the room. Mrsha sat up, sniffing suddenly. And the inn was flooded with daylight. She shaded her eyes as the morning sky shone into the room for a moment\u2014and then Erin was gone. Slowly, Lyonette looked at the closed door. And she got it too. She looked out a window, at the mountains blocking the sun from this angle.<\/p>\n Numbtongue squatted by the door. He smiled, pleased. He\u2019d figured some of it out. As for the rest? He went back to his guitar and strummed it softly, playing a quick, upbeat riff. He was looking forwards to when Erin got back. It was never boring around her. At her table, Lyonette watched Mrsha scarf her breakfast. The [Princess] sat back in her chair and cracked her fingers.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, I guess it\u2019s time to make some money. Numbtongue? Mind getting us some more blue fruits? Mrsha? Can you feed Apista?\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll looked up and found the Ashfire Bee eating from the Faerie Flowers. She nodded and went to get her watering cup. Lyonette smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s time to make some money.\u201d<\/p>\n Belatedly, she remembered something else. This was the day that Belgrade was supposed to come to the inn and begin construction! She sucked in her cheeks, but Erin was gone. And\u2014Lyonette supposed it didn\u2019t matter. She glanced up. You could almost feel it in the air. An excitement. A premonition.<\/p>\n The feeling was enough to drag even the slothful Pisces and Ceria out of their beds and down the stairs, and Lyonette looked up. The quiet inn was coming alive. Because its owner was on the move. The Wandering Inn got ready. For anything. Because if you knew Erin Solstice, anything was the least of what you should be ready for.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n In Liscor, both Olesm Swifttail and Selys Shivertail learned what was going on at almost the same time. When Drassi hurried out of the inn, bursting with Lyonette\u2019s message, the [Strategist] and [Receptionist] both heard her excited message. Selys because she was the intended target. Olesm because a young Gnoll repeated it word-for-word to him.<\/p>\n He glanced across the busy street in the morning hours at Selys and Drassi and got a scorching glare in return. The [Strategist] ducked his head and sighed. He fished in his money pouch and handed the Gnoll a few silver coins.<\/p>\n \u201cGood work. Keep listening and following them about. Did you get a look at the paper?\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll kid wagged his tail excitedly and shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, Strategist Olesm. But Miss Selys said\u2014\u2018Oh? The armor? I can do that. But what\u2019s she want?\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n He looked up at Olesm. The Drake made a face. He stared back at Selys and Drassi. They were camped on the other side of the street. Selys was having breakfast with Krshia and her cohort of mainly Gnolls and a few Drakes. On the other side, Lism and his band of Liscorians were eating breakfast, noisily laughing.<\/p>\n It was a standoff. Both sides had appeared on Market Street practically at dawn, ready to campaign. And it was<\/em> a campaign now. A war in the streets. Olesm had no illusions. With his help, his uncle had thrown a few good hits into Krshia\u2019s unprepared defenses, but the Gnoll [Shopkeeper] wasn\u2019t about to back down. But it was an even fight. No\u2014even weighted in Lism\u2019s favor. He\u2019d taken Krshia\u2019s campaign and turned it on its head. Free money, more jobs, less Antinium. Olesm wished he could be proud about it, but he felt dirty. And yet\u2014<\/p>\n \u201cNephew! How goes it?\u201d<\/p>\n A jovial voice interrupted Olesm. The Gnoll informant waved a paw and disappeared in the direction of Selys and Drassi. Olesm turned.<\/p>\n \u201cUncle. Not bad, I guess. But I\u2019m a bit worried. You\u2019re ready with my notes?\u201d<\/p>\n Lism patted the bundle of cards that Olesm had worked up, smiling from earhole to earhole.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry, I\u2019ll send that arrogant Silverfang packing. She hasn\u2019t got a leg to stand on, and she knows it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t be overconfident. One of my informants said that she talked with Klbkch yesterday. The Antinium might have upped their offer.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo? It\u2019s still Antinium money. Don\u2019t worry, I\u2019ll hammer her on that. And the Council has<\/em> voted! The election\u2019s going through! They haven\u2019t said how or when\u2014but they\u2019ve agreed for, oh, what\u2019s the phrase? \u2018A referendum on the current Council, which will be taken under advisory for the next appointment of members.\u2019 That\u2019s good, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Could be. It sounds like they\u2019re saying they might not count the votes. Or at least, they\u2019re giving themselves a way out.\u201d<\/p>\n Olesm frowned, working over the language in his mind. Lism bared his teeth, his tail wagging excitedly.<\/p>\n \u201cThey do that and they\u2019ll have a riot on their hands. From both Gnolls and Drakes! I\u2019m getting behind this election idea, Olesm. Honest Drakes on the Council, not snooty Merchant\u2019s Guild heads! Watchmen making decisions about their city! Senior Guardsman Jeiss will get the votes in.\u201d<\/p>\n He looked delighted. Olesm was less so. The younger Drake shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cJust remember, Uncle. My worry is the Antinium. I\u2019m not supporting you if you keep attacking Humans or Gnolls, for that matter. I\u2019m trying to protect Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n Lism\u2019s expression softened. He laid a hand on Olesm\u2019s shoulder.<\/p>\n \u201cAh, my boy. For you, I\u2019ll change anything you need. And we\u2019ll safeguard Liscor. Together. Don\u2019t look so worried! The city\u2019s with us. Once we gave them an option that was as good as Silverfang\u2019s, the support poured in. Even if the Antinium offer a bit more\u2014and we\u2019re getting in letters of support from all the cities, and even donations\u2014we can persuade folks to do the right thing.\u201d<\/p>\n Olesm hoped Lism was right. But even so, he cast an agonized glance at Selys again. She was ignoring him after she\u2019d tried to punch his lights out yesterday. His tail drooped. Then he sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cI think we can win this. My biggest worry right now, though, is Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n Lism\u2019s face soured at once.<\/p>\n \u201cAh. The Human [Innkeeper]. What about her? She can\u2019t vote.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. But she can help Krshia\u2019s campaign out a lot. I don\u2019t know what she\u2019s doing, but it looks like she\u2019s getting Selys to use her Heartflame Breastplate for something. I thought they\u2019d have Watch Captain Zevara wearing it\u2014but she\u2019s staying neutral, it seems.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo? If they put a Drake in the armor, it\u2019s the armor that matters, not the Drake. And if they put a Gnoll in it\u2014they\u2019re no Zel Shivertail. A bit of flash won\u2019t change any minds.\u201d<\/p>\n Olesm nodded. That was true. But still, he worried.<\/p>\n \u201cI know. But Erin has a plan of some kind. That\u2019s what Drassi said.\u201d<\/p>\n Lism threw up his hands.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd so what? You\u2019re<\/em> the [Strategist], my boy. What can this girl do?\u201d<\/p>\n Olesm looked at his uncle with one eye and shook his head slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cShe\u2019s Erin, uncle. Erin. <\/em>I can\u2019t predict what she\u2019ll do. If there\u2019s anyone who could\u2014win the election by making fish fall out of the sky, it\u2019s her.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou have too much faith in that Human girl. Just because she can play chess a bit better than you\u2026fine! Watch for her, by all means. But let\u2019s not forget the facts. We have a better campaign than she does. How can she change the facts?\u201d<\/p>\n The older Drake blustered. Olesm made no reply. He just watched Selys. And she<\/em> was glancing down the street, in the direction of The Wandering Inn. Selys looked up from a hamburger from one of the street stalls and met Olesm\u2019s eyes at last. She bared her teeth and made a rude gesture as Krshia stood up. Lism stalked forwards, and the two began shouting at each other almost at once.<\/p>\n But that wasn\u2019t what their seconds were waiting for. Olesm was poised, antsy, nervous. Selys looked calmer, but every two seconds, she was glancing eastwards, towards the inn. Both of them were waiting for their friend to make another move. And part of Olesm, no, all of him wanted to see it. Because it was Erin. And he felt as small and far from her as he ever had. He couldn\u2019t touch her on the chess board, or in courage, daring. Kindness. But perhaps here?<\/p>\n He waited, and then ducked as Selys threw her half-eaten burger at his head. And they both waited. But the watchers Olesm had posted on the door to Erin\u2019s inn from the city didn\u2019t warn him that Erin was coming. The inn was quiet. Olesm wondered why that was so. He wondered what Erin was waiting for. Then he wondered where Erin was.<\/em> And by that time, it was far too late.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Here was the truth. The little grain of it, tucked behind the expectation of all her friends. Krshia, the Horns, Lyonette, Numbtongue. Olesm. It was a simple fact. And it was that Erin didn\u2019t know what she was doing.<\/p>\n She had no grand plan. She had\u2026pieces. And they went together, in a halting, logical, twisting flow in her head. From that, Erin thought she could do something that would help Krshia, make Lism really mad. And do more, do good things. But it was just an inkling. A suspicion that if<\/em> things went well, it could work.<\/p>\n She was no [Strategist]. She had no grand plans. Because Erin knew, in her heart of hearts, that she couldn\u2019t really be a [General]. She wasn\u2019t that kind of person, who could manipulate events and people like fine machinery. But by the same token, Erin did have something. And it was this: she knew people. That was all.<\/p>\n She had friends. With that simple truth, Erin Solstice could bring a city down. And that was today. She stepped through the magic door and into the city.<\/p>\n Pallass. The morning had advanced enough to let a smattering of people onto the streets. Gnolls, Drakes. And yes, the Dullahans from Baleros and the Garuda of Chandrar. They were few and far between, but still more common here than Humans or any other species. Erin spotted an avian head in the crowd and saw a green and white feathered Garuda man with a shopping basket under one arm as she looked around the street. He looked like he was doing some morning shopping. And he was so normal<\/em>, yawning, scratching under one wing. Erin smiled. People were people.<\/p>\n \u201cList?\u201d<\/p>\n A pointed voice to her left made her look over. A Drake [Guardsman] with a familiar irked expression stared at her. Erin blinked at him.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAre you on the list for today\u2019s arrivals? Do you have<\/em> a list?\u201d<\/p>\n The aggrieved [Guardsman] stared at her. Erin slapped her forehead.<\/p>\n \u201cI knew I forgot something. No list. But it\u2019s cool, right? No one asked to come through. And I\u2019ll just be walking about. I\u2019ll be back before you know it. I do<\/em> own this door. Hey, aren\u2019t you the jerk that stopped me last time?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake glowered. He had his trusty spear, and he was eying Erin as if he would have loved to give her a good tap with it.<\/p>\n \u201cWatch Captain Venim informed you that anyone passing through the door needs to be authorized coming from Liscor to Pallass.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin rolled her eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd I\u2019m authorized. You let me in just two days ago. Kel, right? Where\u2019s your friend?\u201d<\/p>\n Guardsman Kel glowered.<\/p>\n \u201cIt was deemed safe to allow one [Guardsman] to watch the door. Despite the two unauthorized entries several days ago.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWho? Olesm and Pisces? Aw. You gave them a hard time too, didn\u2019t you? That\u2019s why they couldn\u2019t come back until the next day, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n Kel folded his arms with a sneer.<\/p>\n \u201cI just did my job, Miss. And I have to inform you that you<\/em> are also entering without proper authorization.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight. So? What are you going to do about it exactly?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin looked blankly at Kel. The [Guardsman] hesitated. Erin leaned forwards, smiling as she put her hand on the closed door.<\/p>\n \u201cIf you want, I can go bother Watch Captain Venim again. I know where he is. Or I can talk to whoever\u2019s on duty. Again. Wanna do that? Because that makes it like the eighth time you and I have done this. And I can do it eight more times. Just say the word. They\u2019ve got free tea, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s tea reserved for members of the Watch!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cToo bad! It\u2019s really good! Nice talking to you, Kel. I\u2019ve got to be on my way. I\u2019ll be back, though, don\u2019t worry! Save my spot!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re here illegally!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake bellowed at Erin\u2019s back. She waved at him. That was Kel for you. Hot-tempered, couldn\u2019t relax. But she\u2019d gotten to know him a bit. The proof was in the fact that Kel let her go rather than trying to poke her in the guts with his spear. She was wearing him down.<\/p>\n Erin walked ahead, breathing in the fresh air. At this height, it felt cooler, crisper. Or maybe it was because the smells of a muddy Liscor didn\u2019t have any bearing here. Pallass\u2019 air was fresh; even better, it had no smog like the cities in Erin\u2019s world. She caught the whiff of fresh bread, a perfume from a passing Dullahan lady, flowers being offered by a Gnoll [Florist]. And then, a sharper smell. Oil,<\/em> cleaning materials.<\/em> Not entirely unpleasant. Erin turned her head and heard a familiar voice.<\/p>\n \u201cYou. You want sharp knives. Everyone wants sharp knives.\u201d<\/p>\n A Dullahan stood behind his counter, addressing a Gnoll man. The Gnoll pointed at himself uncertainly.<\/p>\n \u201cMe?\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan didn\u2019t nod. But his head, resting on the little pillow in the basket on his counter, opened his mouth while his armored body lowered his pointing finger.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, you. You need sharp knives. I have the sharpest knives. Come and see.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI, uh\u2014I have good knives. Thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll glanced at Erin as she wandered over. The Dullahan glanced at her and then addressed the Gnoll.<\/p>\n \u201cBut are they sharp?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPretty sharp. I\u2019m fairly certain\u2026thank you. But I have to be going, yes? Er\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll backed away. The Dullahan sighed. He picked up his head and adjusted it in the basket with his body. Erin leaned on the counter, beaming.<\/p>\n \u201cHello, Lorent. How\u2019s business?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt could be better. Did you hear that Gnoll? He\u2019s got good knives. And is he certain? Or is he so used to a dull blade that he\u2019s taken it for granted?\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan [Sharpener] pursed his lips. He tilted his head to look at Erin and the kitchen knife strapped to her side.<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019s your knife? Any nicks? Blemishes? Dulling?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNope! I cut a fish in half with it just this morning. It\u2019s wicked.<\/em> Thanks for getting it all ready for me. No complaints!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin patted the kitchen knife at her side. It was the same knife that Maughin had given her after the competition with Pelt. Lorent\u2019s perpetual frown seemed to ease as he nodded at it.<\/p>\n \u201cThat was a good knife. Excellently made. It can hold a keener edge than half my stock, easily. I\u2019m glad you respect the metal. But I could also do the same for the rest of your knives. Just bring them in and I\u2019ll give you a discount. Or order some from Maughin.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin smiled, relaxed as she leaned on the counter.<\/p>\n \u201cI will, I will. But they are<\/em> sharp. I tested them. And your knives are dangerously edged! I don\u2019t want to lose a finger; my hands aren\u2019t armored. Have you ever thought about selling gloves to your non-Dullahan customers?\u201d<\/p>\n Lorent\u2019s brows rose.<\/p>\n \u201cI have not. You mean like a chainmail glove? I could look into it. Although, some of my knives could cut through even steel links fairly easily\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMaybe that\u2019s a selling point. Anyways, I\u2019m on business. Lorent, you wouldn\u2019t happen to know if Maughin\u2019s in his forge today, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan paused. He scratched his head with his fingers absently.<\/p>\n \u201cHmm. He should be working there. You have an order for him?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot exactly<\/em>. But I do have something fun in mind. Hey, thanks. I\u2019ll see you there. Keep an eye on this street, okay? I\u2019m going to do something fun later.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin winked at Lorent and pointed back towards her door. He nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll be here. If you spot anyone in need of sharp knives\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman paused. And a light bulb went off in her brain. Her plan suddenly expanded. She smiled conspiratorially at Lorent.<\/p>\n \u201cI may.<\/em> Do you have to sharpen knives in your shop?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can sharpen a knife anywhere if I bring my tools. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHm.<\/em> I may have a lot of business for you soon. Keep an open mind, will you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy mind is completely open to business.\u201d<\/p>\n Lorent watched Erin go. She waved at him, grinning. And she saw a faint smile on the reserved Dullahan\u2019s lips. He liked her, or so Erin thought. She thought he was cool, even if he really did speak only about knives. And her meeting with him had given her another idea.<\/p>\n By now, Erin was used to Pallass. At least, the general layout. She knew where the regularly spaced out elevators were on each floor and at least a few good spots. She hopped into an elevator with a Gnoll attendant and three other Gnolls. The Gnoll raised his brows, surprised to see a Human.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat floor?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNinth! Thanks!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin answered with a smile. The Gnoll nodded and pulled a lever. The elevator shot up fast, but Erin and the Gnolls were ready for it. She hopped out on the ninth floor as the elevator came to a stop. And ahead of her was the floor reserved for the [Alchemists] and [Blacksmiths], two of the industries that the city was known for.<\/p>\n \u201cHere goes.\u201d<\/p>\n The young Human woman marched down the floor by the guardrails. On her right, the forges appeared, clanging infernos of heat and steel. Erin could see sparks flying, Drakes, Dullahans, a few Gnolls, no Garuda, hard at work. Hammering despite the early hour. Few noticed her, but she kept her eyes open. And by the largest of the forges, she spotted a familiar Dullahan laboring in the back.<\/p>\n \u201cExcuse me!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin waved to one of the Drakes in the front. She had to call twice before the apprentice looked up. She trotted over after sticking a bar of metal into the forge to heat. Erin waved at her, maintaining a respectful distance from the forge; the [Smiths] had drawn a line in paint on the ground, beyond which safety was not guaranteed.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry! Can I ask if Maughin\u2019s in this morning? And Pelt?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake recognized Erin at once. Her eyes went to the knife at her belt, and she stepped forwards to shout.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re that Human, right? The one who goes to Master Rufelt\u2019s tavern? And who got Mister Pelt to forge a knife?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTails and Scales! That\u2019s right! Where\u2019s Maughin?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn the forge. Mister Pelt\u2019s not here today. He\u2019s probably got a hangover. I wouldn\u2019t wait for him.\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake grimaced. She pointed at an empty forge down the ways. Erin grimaced. Well, Pelt wasn\u2019t her first choice. He was probably a bit of a disaster, in fact.<\/p>\n \u201cMaughin\u2019s fine. Can I ask you to call him over? If he\u2019s not super-busy. Tell him it\u2019s me!\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake nodded. She trotted into the forge, and Erin waited patiently. She saw Maughin\u2019s huge form turn, and soon he was trotting towards her. She looked up at him. Not since Moore had she seen anyone so huge, and Maughin wore his light metal armor over his entire body! He was already covered in sweat, but she saw that he had a water canteen in the basket he carried his head in. And he was drinking from a straw.<\/p>\n \u201cMaughin! Hey!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMiss Erin. It is good to see you.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin smiled slightly as Erin waved at him and stepped over the warning line to meet him. He bent slightly, and his face was largely neutral. If you didn\u2019t know Dullahans, his reserve might have even come off as passively hostile. But Erin knew Dullahans now, and the fact that he was smiling when he met her and that he used her first name meant he felt close enough to be informal.<\/p>\n Erin stopped and gave him a slight bow; Rufelt had told her it was customary for Dullahans to honor [Smiths] whom they held in high regard, even among friends. And Maughin\u2019s pleased expression told Erin he noticed. He inclined his head back, and formalities done, they stepped further away from the forge so they wouldn\u2019t have to shout.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is a surprise to see you here this early. May I ask if you\u2019re intending to visit Rufelt and Lasica? Their tavern isn\u2019t open at this hour, but I saw them going for a walk together as I was setting up.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin pointed down two floors. He had good eyes; Erin squinted at the distant shapes below.<\/p>\n \u201cNo\u2026although I might want to talk to them. I was actually here to see you!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOn business? My forge is occupied, but I can certainly talk about an order.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin shook her head.<\/p>\n \u201cNot quite<\/em>. Tell me, do you have a lot of work today? Could you clear your schedule, Maughin?\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan gave her a large frown.<\/p>\n \u201cIf it was an emergency, or the project demanded my attention, yes. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n Perfect. Erin spread her arms, smiling broadly.<\/p>\n \u201cI was hoping you\u2019d come with me! I know it\u2019s sudden, but it would really<\/em> help me out. Can you abandon your forge\u2014leave the work to your other smiths and apprentices? If you can, I\u2019d love for you to come to Liscor with me.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin had the benefit of seeing Maughin blink at her twice. The Dullahan who towered over her head actually picked up his head and rubbed at his ears with his hands. He put his head on his shoulders and leaned down, cupping a hand to one ear.<\/p>\n \u201cExcuse me? Did you say, go to Liscor, Miss Erin? Why would I do that?\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman beamed and spread her arms out.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, why not?<\/em> Have you ever sold any, uh, armor to Liscor? How\u2019s the market for swords and stuff in Pallass?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s always a market. Not always the best one, but we export around the continent. To the rest of the world, even.\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan frowned, rubbing his chin. Erin nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cRight. You sell to [Merchants] and [Traders]. But<\/em> what about selling directly to, I dunno, Celum? Isn\u2019t it better to have multiple markets? To be competitive and stuff? You could check out the quality of their gear. And there\u2019s this Gnoll [Armorer] in Liscor I\u2019d like you to meet.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cToday?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYup.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin looked around, frowning as if he suspected Erin of pulling some kind of prank.<\/p>\n \u201cYou mean, right now.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUh huh.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Armorer] stared down at Erin. She stared up, smiling hopefully. At last, Maughin shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s an interesting offer, Miss Erin. But this is really too sudden. I have work. Perhaps I might have time in a week. Or a few days, but today? My apprentices need supervision, we\u2019re working on a set of armor for a [Knight], and I have four glaive heads to manufacture by the end of the week\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n He shook his head, frowning. Erin nodded, as yet undeterred. Time to get serious. She casually glanced over her shoulder, looking apologetically at Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cToo bad. There\u2019s this election happening in Liscor right now, and it\u2019s a big deal. I know Pallass is going to go through its elections, so I thought you could give my friends some tips. Oh, and one of my friends owns the Heartflame Breastplate and I was thinking you could maybe take a look at it. You know, Selys was wondering if she uncovered all of the functions. It sets itself on fire, very cool. And I made some cake I\u2019d love for you to try\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin\u2019s face had changed markedly during part of Erin\u2019s little speech. He waved an urgent hand and bent even lower.<\/p>\n \u201cExcuse me. Did you say the<\/em> Heartflame Breastplate?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin saw his Drake apprentice watching them from the forge out of the corner of her eye. She smiled innocently up at Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Oh, yeah. And cake. But if you\u2019re busy, I can totally understand.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. I mean to say\u2014no. I knew the Heartflame Breastplate was in Liscor. But you say your friend owns it? And I might be able to inspect it?\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin cleared his throat a few times, uncharacteristically flustered.<\/p>\n \u201cThe <\/em>Heartflame Breastplate? We are speaking about the same armor? This is not some\u2014other breastplate?\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman saw two of Maughin\u2019s journeymen smiths, both Dullahans, glancing at their master from the forge. And another smith was eying her from a distance. She waved to the [Farrier], Bealt, at a distance. Then she took a deep breath and looked back at Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, sorry. I said the Heartflame Breastplate.<\/em> The legendary artifact!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin shouted it across the forges. The rhythmic, background beating<\/em> of hammers hitting metal faltered. Erin heard an oath two forges over as someone hit himself on the hand. Another [Smith] poked his head out of the forge to stare. Erin looked up at Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cZel Shivertail used to stay at my inn. He was a good guy. Drake. And his niece is Selys Shivertail. She\u2019s my best friend. Wanna see her armor? She won\u2019t mind. It\u2019s not like she wears it.\u201d<\/p>\n She shrugged nonchalantly. Maughin turned his head on his shoulders a hundred and eighty degrees. Erin eyed that queasily and saw him making a gesture behind his back. Whatever it meant, both of his journeymen Dullahan smiths took off their heads to nod very<\/em> vigorously. And half a dozen [Smiths] were also drifting out of their forges. Maughin turned his head back and gave Erin a very casual look. He coughed once.<\/p>\n \u201cWell. I\u2026I would be delighted. I don\u2019t think I need to work on all my pieces right at this moment. Why not?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGreat! Then let\u2019s take a stroll to Liscor! It\u2019s on the eighth floor. Hey Bealt!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMiss Solstice! Did I just hear you say the Heartflame Breastplate?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah! We\u2019re going to look at it! Hey, I\u2019ll catch you later, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin waved at the Gnoll. He opened his mouth. Apologetically, Erin cut him off.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd\u2014sorry! One [Blacksmith] is probably enough! You know about what they say about cooks and broth! It\u2019s probably the same with smiths and armor!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? But I\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Bealt tried to climb over his anvil and nearly burned himself. Maughin looked at Erin as she waved apologetically at the other smiths. He eyed a Drake trying to get to them while taking off his apron.<\/p>\n \u201cAh, we should go. I\u2019d hate to keep your friend waiting.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure, sure! Where\u2019s the nearest elevator?\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cThe personal elevators are somewhat cramped. We may take the stairs. Follow me.\u201d<\/p>\n He set off. Erin waved at the other smiths, who were shouting questions, and hurried off. She was trying not to laugh. Maughin strode towards the nearest grand staircase until he realized his stride was leaving Erin behind. Then he hurried back to her.<\/p>\n \u201cMy apologies, Miss Erin. But you\u2019re sure? This isn\u2019t an issue? I would be allowed to inspect the breastplate at my leisure? No, a glance would suffice. But if I could test it with a hammer\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure! Sure! Selys isn\u2019t using it. Grab a hammer!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin waited as Maughin practically raced back. The Dullahan was huffing when he returned. He looked at her.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you know the owner of the Heartflame Breastplate?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYup. She\u2019s a [Receptionist]. We\u2019re old friends. Well, not old<\/em>, but she inherited it. Man. I was so sad when I heard Zel died.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA tragedy. Pallass was in mourning for weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin nodded carefully. He led the way down the stairs. Even with Pallass\u2019 many citizens, he stood out. As big as Moore. But apparently they could get even bigger. Erin imagined what one of the War Walkers\u2014which were apparently super-huge Dullahans\u2014would look like. She shook her head as she went down the stairs.<\/p>\n \u201cApologies. I don\u2019t move around much from level to level. Aside from the larger elevators, I find it difficult.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin apologized as he navigated down the steps far slower than he\u2019d walked. Erin didn\u2019t mind; from the expressions of the pedestrians hurrying to get clear below Maughin, they weren\u2019t keen on him tripping and falling either.<\/p>\n \u201cNo problem. Hey, I appreciate you taking the time. How\u2019s business been? I haven\u2019t really stopped to chat since that knife-making competition with Pelt and Bealt. I saw you in Tails and Scales, of course, the other day.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTwo days ago.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin nodded. His head wobbled and he put a hand up and secured it\u2014Erin got the impression he was locking it into place.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, business has been fine. Ordinary. I haven\u2019t completed any large projects. Pelt drinks too much as usual.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs he\u2014more depressed than normal? The knife he made is really awesome, but I feel bad about making him upset. I tried to talk to him twice, but every time I come up here, he runs off.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin frowned. He gripped the edge of the large divider between the left and right sides of the stairs for support.<\/p>\n \u201cNo. I wouldn\u2019t say that. He\u2019s always drunk himself to oblivion. If anything, he\u2019s working harder than usual. But I would say that he has strong feelings about your knife. And his past. I would not inquire. It would be impolite. And perhaps we caused some offense by finishing his knife. Still, I judge it acceptable; steel that fine cannot simply be wasted.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin nodded. She wished Dawil were still here so she could introduce him to Pelt. Too bad, it was one of those things you took for granted. Then again, it wasn\u2019t like they would know each other. Or get along. She sighed, hopped down the last eight steps, and waited for Maughin to catch up. As she waited, she heard another familiar voice.<\/p>\n \u201cUp those steps! Are you [Mages] or limp-tailed <\/em>[Scribes]? Pump those legs! This is the last stretch! That\u2019s it!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin peered down the steps. On cue, she saw a huge, muscular figure swarming up the stairs as pedestrians got out of the way. It was a Drake, dressed in robes, but with the body of a professional bodybuilder. And following him was a group of Drakes and one Gnoll, all gasping for air. The Drake summited the steps on the eighth floor and immediately turned to harangue his apprentices.<\/p>\n \u201cYou want to learn magic? You pay the price! If you can\u2019t do three laps each morning, how can I expect you to cast a [Fireball] spell? Get those knees up! Faster! That\u2019s right, that\u2019s right\u2026alright, you can rest.\u201d<\/p>\n He waved a disgusted claw at his apprentices as they simply collapsed on the eighth floor. The Gnoll pulled out a water bottle and splashed it over her fur. A Drake pulled out a stamina potion. The [Mage] slapped it out of his hands in a moment.<\/p>\n \u201cYou fool! I told you time and again, potions are a shortcut! You want to build a body that\u2019s strong? You don\u2019t<\/em> rely on potions! They\u2019ll stunt your growth!\u201d<\/p>\n He smashed<\/em> the bottle on the ground and stomped on the glass shards, ignoring the questionable logic of that decision. The Drake moaned<\/em>. The [Mage] opened his mouth for further shouting, and Erin waved her hands desperately.<\/p>\n \u201cOoh! Ooh! Hey! You\u2019re Grimalkin, right? Remember me?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin turned. The muscular [Mage]\u2019s eyes widened, and he pointed a claw.<\/p>\n \u201cI do! Your name is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cErin Solstice?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin stepped to one side to let Maughin move past her. Grimalkin bounded over, leaving his poor apprentices to hug the ground and sweat.<\/p>\n \u201cErin Solstice? Ah, yes! The Human with guts!<\/em> An honor! We didn\u2019t get a chance to speak last time.\u201d<\/p>\n He held out a hand. Erin shook it, and her hand was immediately crushed by a huge hand. She beamed up at him. Well, wasn\u2019t this a lucky surprise?<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s great to see you. Hey\u2014this is a question out of the blue, but\u2014do you want to visit Liscor?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat Liscor?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n Behind Erin, Maughin turned his head. Erin turned to smile at him.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah! The more the merrier! I don\u2019t know what there is for Grimalkin to see, but I\u2019d love to have him. What about it? We\u2019re going right now. Got any spare time?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Mage] blinked, and then folded his arms. His biceps, triceps, and other ceps rippled<\/em> with the motion. Grimalkin looked up at the sky, tapping one foot.<\/p>\n \u201cLiscor. Liscor\u2026why not? I just finished my morning run with these slugs, and they need a moment. And I\u2019d love to meet the Gecko of Liscor. You wouldn\u2019t happen to know him, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRelc? Of course! He\u2019s one of my oldest clients! I can totally introduce you to him! Come on! We\u2019ll go together! Grimalkin, this is Maughin. Do you two know each other?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake craned his thick neck up. Maughin blinked down at him. The Drake gnawed one lip.<\/p>\n \u201cHm. Yes I do. Not personally. Pleased. Grimalkin, [Mage].\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh. A pleasure. Maughin. [Blacksmith].\u201d<\/p>\n The two shook hands, blinking at each other. Erin grinned.<\/p>\n \u201cAlright! And if we see Rufelt and Lasica\u2014no, wait, the door will probably shut down. I hope the Horns can charge it. Alright, with me!\u201d<\/p>\n She waved the two onwards. Grimalkin paused to bark back at his apprentices.<\/p>\n \u201cYou get a reprieve! When we get back, we\u2019ll keep studying!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin saw one of the Drakes lying on the ground raise her head and give Erin a desperate look of gratitude. The [Innkeeper] waved a hand. Then she marched ahead, leading Maughin and Grimalkin behind her. The Dullahan was turning his head from both Erin to Grimalkin now. But Erin was talking to Grimalkin.<\/p>\n \u201cWe just met once. But are you really<\/em> a muscle-mage? Or a [Mage] that uses the magic of\u2026muscles?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin laughed. He had an energetic pace that matched Maughin\u2019s longer legs; Erin was the one who had to jog to keep up.<\/p>\n \u201cMuscle magic? I suppose that\u2019s one word for it! I\u2019m an expert on physical enhancement. It\u2019s an underdeveloped school of magic. But it essentially allows me to enhance a body\u2019s capacity.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight, like casting strength enchantments on me or something?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cExactly.<\/em> Although that\u2019s a common spell. Still, it\u2019s rare enough to see a [Mage] specializing in that. Why bother with enchanting someone to swing a sword harder when you can throw a [Fireball]? Hah. Well, I also believe a conditioned body is a key to a [Mage]\u2019s success, both academically and in battle. Hence my rigorous training regimen.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can see that. You\u2019ve, uh, got muscles everywhere. Even your tail is thick.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin looked at Grimalkin\u2019s tail. He laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cExactly! You know, most species consider our tails a hindrance in battle. But tails provide support, a means of catching your opponents off-guard\u2014but listen to me talk on. Humans don\u2019t have tails. I\u2019m always amazed at your sense of balance without.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt does get hard. Speaking of which, Maughin, Grimalkin, I hear the Assembly of Crafts is going to have elections soon. That\u2019s what Rufelt and Lasica always tell me about when I visit their bar. How\u2019s that going?\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin, who\u2019d been opening his mouth for a word edgewise for a while now, paused. He and Grimalkin looked at each other, and then both spoke at once.<\/p>\n \u201cMy apologies.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin cleared his throat.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, no. Go ahead, uh, Master Maughin.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh. Thank you. Well, as I understand it Miss Solstice, the elections are fierce. It\u2019s between the Protectorate party and the Unitail group this year. They are the two major parties attempting to gain a majority. Last year, the Protectorate managed to form a ruling party coalition with one of the smaller groups\u2014the Zeresian group.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin nodded vigorously. Erin raised her eyebrows.<\/p>\n \u201cZeresian group?\u201d<\/p>\n The two paused, and Maughin extended a palm. Grimalkin leapt in.<\/p>\n \u201cThey favor strong ties with Zeres, who have historically been Pallass\u2019 closest allies. A breakoff from the Protectorate party, which favors Pallassian independence. Whereas the Unitail group, which I suppose Master Maughin and the craftspeople favor, is in support of free trade and open borders between all cities. The Protectorate puts tariffs on the other Walled Cities\u2019 goods, which in turns leads them to tax our alchemical goods and steel. Myself, I consider it all too political. The Assembly is always fighting for power.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re not in favor of open borders?\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin rumbled from behind Grimalkin, looking disapproving. The [Mage] turned his head back.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, largely, I suppose. It\u2019s just that I don\u2019t see why we need to tie voting for open borders to this huge discussion about parties and whatnot. I\u2019m tired of it all. Then again, I grew up here. It doesn\u2019t matter to me who\u2019s in charge so long as I can practice my craft in peace. Pallass doesn\u2019t have as strong a mage community as, say Fissival, Miss Erin. We tend to stay out of the politics. Ironic, I know, but we\u2019re not Wistram.\u201d<\/p>\n He addressed Erin. She nodded. Maughin continued to look disapproving, so she turned to him.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re going to vote, Maughin? Are you a full citizen?\u201d<\/p>\n He nodded stiffly.<\/p>\n \u201cI have lived in Pallass for over six years, which is the requisite minimum to be considered a full citizen and accorded voting rights. That in itself is a recent development; the minimum duration required to be considered a citizen was lowered from ten years to six in an election three years back.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin snapped his clawed fingers absently.<\/p>\n \u201cAh, I remember that. I voted to lower the age restriction.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou did?\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin looked mollified. Grimalkin nodded briskly.<\/p>\n \u201cSix years, eight years\u2014if you\u2019ve lived in a city for at least two years, why not call yourself a citizen? You pay taxes either way.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI wouldn\u2019t go as far as two years. But if you\u2019ll vote for lowering the age requirement, what about open borders and more protection for other cities? The Protectorate\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin made a disgusted sound and raised a claw.<\/p>\n \u201cAgh! They don\u2019t have my vote. Satisfied? I wasn\u2019t a fan of how they handled the Liscor crisis. Not at all. I admit, I liked their stance when Salazsar was throwing its weight around and inflating the prices of gemstones five years back, but this is too far.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cExactly what Rufelt and Lasica have been saying.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin nodded contentedly. Grimalkin nodded and muttered out of the corner of his mouth to Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cDullahans never give up an argument. Word of advice, Miss Solstice. How did you come to know Maughin anyways?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe knew Rufelt and Lasica, who\u2019re my friends. And I got this knife from a smithing competition.\u201d<\/p>\n The muscle [Mage] blinked as Erin showed him the knife. He bent down while walking to inspect it.<\/p>\n \u201cI do remember that! And you! That\u2019s the second time\u2014wonderful display. Form and physique on show for all to see. That Dwarf was especially good, but Maughin has a classic [Blacksmith]\u2019s build.\u201d<\/p>\n He and Erin both turned to look at the Dullahan. Maughin stopped.<\/p>\n \u201cI do?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake nodded. He walked around the Dullahan, speaking rapidly and gesturing at his arms and legs.<\/p>\n \u201cGood physique. A bit upper-body intensive, but I can respect that out of a [Blacksmith]. Still, you could do some leg exercises. You\u2019re aware that Dullahans grow to fit your armor, I\u2019m sure, but that strength is often underused. May I ask if you do any kind of curling exercises?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCurling? How?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin sighed. He adjusted his robes, and for a moment, the fabric strained<\/em> against his chest, revealing a row of rippling abdominal muscles. Erin oohed<\/em>, and Maughin looked impressed\u2014then embarrassed. He averted his gaze.<\/p>\n \u201cAbdominal muscles. It\u2019s the\u2014the foundation of every movement. Even trained warriors neglect their stomachs and backs. I\u2019ve discovered that it\u2019s criminally underused, however. I\u2019m trying to raise awareness, but it\u2019s hard to convince a [Warrior] that he needs to do sit-ups to improve his swing. I realize it\u2019s not obvious at first glance, but the body is connected<\/em>, you understand?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake patted his stomach disconsolately. Erin nodded rapidly.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, I totally get it! You\u2019re talking about the core, right?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin turned his head and snapped<\/em> his fingers.<\/p>\n \u201cThe core? Excellent name! Where did you come up with that?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, where I come from, people know about it\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey do? <\/em>Tell me more! Wait, where do you come from?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin\u2019s tongue tangled in her mouth. She hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cW-well, I\u2014the core\u2019s just the core, right? And you do all kinds of stretches. Sorry, I\u2019m not an expert, but I do know about dynamic stretching versus static.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhich is?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, you do this instead of\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n Erin began showing Grimalkin some stretches in the street, doing arm swings, rotating her body\u2014Grimalkin walked around her, nodding.<\/p>\n \u201cI see. I see. That\u2019s\u2014well, I\u2019ve found the same thing. Stationary stretching tires the muscles, or so it feels, while this\u2014but most [Soldiers] won\u2019t do either before a battle. And I keep telling Pallass\u2019 [Strategists], if an army took ten minutes to warm up before charging into the fray\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin took his head off and rubbed at his eyes. When the Dullahan put his head back on his shoulders, he cleared his throat gently. Erin and Grimalkin looked up. The Dullahan massaged his temple gently.<\/p>\n \u201cI apologize for interrupting. But I must confess, Miss Erin. I am not certain why I\u2019m here. Is this\u2026why are we here?\u201d<\/p>\n He gestured to Erin and Grimalkin. The young woman realized she was doing stretches in the middle of the street. She blushed; Grimalkin just looked around blankly as if nothing were out of the ordinary. She shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry, Maughin. We should get going if we want to get to Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI understand. But you\u2019ve invited me and Magus Grimalkin. Why?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Because I saw him?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin gave Maughin a wide-eyed stare. He searched her face for anything, but clearly didn\u2019t find it.<\/p>\n \u201cSo you invited him to go to Liscor? And me, because I was available?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYep. That\u2019s all there is to it. I was gonna get Rufelt and Lasica if you were busy. But this is great too. Grimalkin\u2019s part of the plan.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI am? What plan?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Mage] looked suspiciously at Erin as he tried out one of her stretches. Erin shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cJust something cool. Don\u2019t worry. It\u2019ll be fun! I promise. And you\u2019ll get to see the armor, Maughin. And Relc.\u201d<\/p>\n The two males looked unconvinced. Erin blew out her cheeks. This was why you didn\u2019t tell people they were part of a plan. She threw her hands up.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s just something that will help me out! Besides, do you have a reason not to follow me?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin and Maughin exchanged a glance. After a second, Erin turned and walked down the street. They followed her. Grimalkin muttered out of the other corner of his mouth to Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cYou do know her, right? Are we walking into some kind of ambush? I\u2019m fine with it; I can handle myself. You?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve met her a handful of times. I\u2019m told she\u2019s an [Innkeeper] of some sort. But I must confess, I have never actually witnessed her inn or at work\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m on holiday! <\/em>Geeze!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin stopped in front of her magical door. She glared back at Maughin and Grimalkin. The Dullahan looked abashed; Grimalkin didn\u2019t. He put his hands on his hips, eying the door as Erin strolled up to Kel the [Guardsman]. The Drake was giving her much the same look as the two men.<\/p>\n \u201cHey Kel! Two to go through. There\u2019s no fee, right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Are you insane? You can\u2019t just bring\u2014that\u2019s Maughin<\/em>! Our top smith! And that\u2019s Magus Grimalkin! He\u2019s our combat [Mage]!\u201d<\/p>\n Kel spluttered as he pointed at the Dullahan and Grimalkin. Maughin looked pleased, and Grimalkin held out a hand to shake.<\/p>\n \u201cTop smith? Well done.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt is a small exaggeration. The Dwarf, Pelt, puts out better quality goods than I can. But I suppose it\u2019s a matter of reliability\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNonsense. That\u2019s an achievement for anyone, let alone someone working Pallass\u2019 forges. I won\u2019t ask your level, but you\u2019re not, what, forty? You must have been a genius. Baleros-born?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. I received some accolades, but I thought I wouldn\u2019t grow competing with smiths from my home. So I journeyed to Pallass. I had assumed I\u2019d run up against countless masters.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, since old Lassilt died of a stroke, I suppose the field is clearer. The other Walled Cities poached two smiths, damn them. And Pelt\u2019s been here a while, but I suppose your work\u2019s really kept us at the top.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt is an honor to hear you say so\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Kel stared at the two. Erin ignored the conversation behind her. She leaned on the door.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, I know it\u2019s Maughin and Grimalkin. So what? They can go through, and there\u2019s no fee. Isn\u2019t that right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, but\u2014you have no list, and they\u2019re\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake spluttered. Erin rolled right over him, speaking louder for the benefit of anyone passing by. Maughin and Grimalkin were certainly attracting looks on the street.<\/p>\n \u201cThen what\u2019s the problem? They\u2019re free to go through. So am I. Move it! Shoo! Shoo!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou can\u2019t!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can! Grimalkin, can you give me a hand? Squash this guy\u2019s head like a grape or something?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin strolled over. He ignored Erin, who was pushing at Kel, and investigated the door.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve seen this door before. Never gone through, of course. So this is the artifact that everyone\u2019s so eager to use, is it? Let\u2019s see.\u201d<\/p>\n He opened the door. Instantly, Erin\u2019s inn appeared on the other side. Erin brightened up. Lyonette had kept it set to Pallass! She waved at Maughin. The Dullahan was staring.<\/p>\n \u201cSee? It\u2019s my door! Hey! Is Lyonette there? I\u2019ve got guests!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWho is it? Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman heard voices from the other side. Then Mrsha appeared. The white Gnoll galloped into view, blinked up at Maughin, and then fled. The Dullahan stared at her.<\/p>\n \u201cIncredible. It truly is<\/em> a magic door. I hadn\u2019t seen it before.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFascinating. This is clearly a portal spell. And it can transmit, what, hundreds of miles? I can\u2019t imagine how powerful the enchantment on the door must be. It has to be worth at least ten thousand\u2014no, possibly a hundred thousand\u2014of course, these spells were more common during certain eras of magical kingdoms. And we do have teleportation spells. But this is so convenient. <\/em>And there\u2019s no charge?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin rubbed his claws together. Kel tried to protest, but Erin hip-bumped him to one side and motioned Maughin up.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah! Come on through! Promise it\u2019s not a trap. Hey, Mrsha! Watch out! Maughin\u2019s coming through.\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan hesitated. He peered through the doorway but, encouraged by Erin\u2019s smile and very interested despite himself, stepped through the doorway. He blinked as his foot hit the floor of Erin\u2019s inn. He turned around, blinking, then peered into the room.<\/p>\n \u201cIncredible. Are we really\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n He turned to look at Erin and the door went dead. Kel swore. Erin just groaned.<\/p>\n \u201cAw. He was too big! Normally we can get two people through. Don\u2019t worry! I heard Ceria on the other side. She can charge the door!\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin looked surprised. He raised his brows.<\/p>\n \u201cIt ran out of mana? No wonder. But that\u2019s a simple enough fix.\u201d<\/p>\n So saying, he put a claw on the door and took a breath. Erin blinked at him.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can recharge it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI am<\/em> a [Mage]. Hm. This door drains mana like no one\u2019s business. But no matter. Concentration! Huah!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n His shout made Kel, Erin, and the onlookers jump. The image of Erin\u2019s inn immediately reappeared in the doorway, like a television turning on. Erin saw Maughin peering at the door anxiously a few steps back. Pisces blinked into the door, and both he and Ceria recoiled.<\/p>\n \u201cWow! What was that?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHi Ceria! Morning! Grimalkin just fixed the door. Thanks! How\u2019d you do it so fast?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin turned to Grimalkin. Pisces stared as Grimalkin flexed one arm, and his entire body rippled<\/em>. The Drake replied casually.<\/p>\n \u201cA [Mage] can store mana in his body. I just released some. May I enter?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Erin elbowed Kel in the side.<\/p>\n \u201cPlease! Me next!\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin stepped delicately through the doorway, and then Erin. She turned and saw Kel glaring at her from Pallass.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry, Kel! They\u2019ll be back later! Watch the door for me, alright?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWatch Captain Venim will hear about this, you\u2014you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Erin shut the door on his face. She turned and beamed at Grimalkin. He was looking around her inn. So was Maughin. The Dullahan blinked up at the ceiling that even he could stand naturally under, and then the large room.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is quite spacious. Impressively so. No inn in Pallass has this much space.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s clearly the result of dimensional magic. Or a Skill. See how the room just repeats itself minus the windows after this point? Fascinating. And useful. So we\u2019re in Liscor?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin strode over to a window. He looked out, exclaimed, and peered around excitedly. Maughin looked up.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCome and see! The entire landscape is changed! We\u2019re right in the middle of the High Passes!\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan\u2019s jaw dropped. He strode over, avoiding a chair, and pulled off his head to see. Erin heard a faint sound; she turned and saw Ceria staring open-mouthed at the Dullahan.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s\u2014Erin, is that a War Walker?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNaw, just Maughin. He\u2019s big, but not War Walker big. Hey Pisces.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Necromancer] didn\u2019t immediately respond. He was staring at Maughin and Grimalkin both. Then he looked at Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cThat Drake is a powerful [Mage].\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYup. He\u2019s a [Sinew Magus] or something. His name is Grimalkin.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGrimalkin. You mean, the Grimalkin<\/em>? The insane fool who thinks magic is tied to the body?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat would be me.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin\u2019s claw fell on Pisces\u2019 shoulder. The [Necromancer] paled. He turned. Grimalkin looked disapprovingly down at him.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you would be\u2026a [Necromancer]. No, don\u2019t bother answering. I can tell. Your aura screams death magic. And the half-Elf\u2019s a [Cryomancer]. Poor form, both of you. You at least have some arm and leg muscle, boy, but you\u2019re both completely unfit.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cExcuse me?\u201d<\/p>\n Ceria gaped up at Grimalkin. The Drake shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s your backup when you run out of magic, Miss? An enchanted dagger? Running away and hoping the rest of your team takes care of the fighting? I don\u2019t want to be rude, but is that how you lost your hand? Have you ever considered learning how to use a sword as well as fighting? [Spellswords] get a bad rap, but in my experience, they live longer when things go south. Now, I can respect a [Fencer]\u2019s build, but that rapier won\u2019t go through anything like a Wyvern\u2019s hide\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Erin backed away as Ceria and Pisces tried to object\u2014and then run away\u2014and Grimalkin grabbed both their shoulders. She edged over to Maughin. He was staring out of a window, entranced. He turned his head to her.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have travelled hundreds of miles in a moment. This is truly powerful magic, Miss Solstice.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know. Isn\u2019t it great? I never thought I could do this myself. And this is my inn, Maughin! I told you I had one.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin waved a hand around. Maughin turned his head to look. Erin saw a flash of white\u2014Mrsha disappeared around the back of a table.<\/p>\n \u201cAw. Mrsha. It\u2019s just Maughin. He\u2019s a Dullahan. <\/em>Don\u2019t worry, he can put his head back. Come here.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin went to find Mrsha. The Gnoll cub shrank as Erin pulled her out of the table. Maughin bowed his head slightly, then put it on his shoulders.<\/p>\n \u201cGood evening, little one.\u201d<\/p>\n He held out a finger to shake. Mrsha timidly shook it, then sniffed Maughin\u2019s finger. She looked relieved, and the Dullahan smiled. Then he looked alarmed and shielded his head.<\/p>\n \u201cMiss Erin. There is a gigantic bug over there. Hold the child safe. I will squash it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo! That\u2019s Apista!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin yelped. Maughin stared at her. Mrsha rushed over to protect the Ashfire Bee, and Apista landed on her head. The Dullahan stared at Mrsha. At Apista. At Erin as she tried to explain. He had to sit on the floor.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay!<\/em> Everyone, stop!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin waved her hands. Grimalkin, Maughin, Mrsha, Apista, Pisces, and Ceria looked up. Erin turned around. She took a deep breath.<\/p>\n \u201cMaughin, Grimalkin, this is my inn. And this is Mrsha\u2014wave, Mrsha\u2014and Apista. She\u2019s the pet of one of my employees. That\u2019s Pisces and Ceria\u2014they\u2019re Silver-rank adventurers. Everyone, this is Maughin and Grimalkin. Maughin\u2019s a [Blacksmith], the best in Pallass! And Grimalkin\u2019s a Muscle Mage. They\u2019re here to visit.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPleased to meet you all.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin took off his head to bow, looking a bit shell-shocked. Grimalkin bowed slightly. He eyed Mrsha, who eyed him as if she weren\u2019t sure he was actually a Drake. Erin smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay? Everyone cool?\u201d<\/p>\n Pisces and Ceria nodded. Both edged a bit away from Grimalkin. Mrsha came over, with Apista in her paws. Grimalkin peered down at the Ashfire bee.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve seen odd familiars. Even someone trying to raise Creler as a pet. But I have to admit\u2014I\u2019m somewhat thrown. Hello there. Mrsha?\u201d<\/p>\n He gingerly offered Mrsha a claw. Apista showed her stinger; Grimalkin withdrew the claw. Erin looked around, beaming. Maughin was shaking his head.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is quite an experience. I was just at my forge. Now\u2014I am fine. Thank you, Miss Erin. I have been discourteous.\u201d<\/p>\n He rose and approached Pisces and Ceria. They shook his hands, staring up<\/em> at him.<\/p>\n \u201cA pleasure.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUh, likewise. Master Maughin, is it?\u201d<\/p>\n Ceria stammered. Pisces nodded. He shook Maughin\u2019s hand.<\/p>\n \u201cI am a humble servant of magic, Master Maughin. The day\u2019s greetings with you. Please forgive our lax manners.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin blinked. He inclined his head.<\/p>\n \u201cNo offense taken. I am pleased to meet you. Magus Pisces?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Necromancer] smiled effusively.<\/p>\n \u201cYou honor me. I am but a student compared to Magus Grimalkin, but my Captain and I\u2014Captain Ceria Springwalker of the Horns of Hammerad\u2014may one day hope to seek your services. I hope you keep us in mind in that eventuality.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh. Of course.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin\u2019s face immediately clouded over. Ceria looked at Pisces, shook herself, and then elbowed him in the side.<\/p>\n \u201cIgnore my companion. I\u2019m pleased to meet you. You\u2019re from Pallass? And their\u2026top [Blacksmith]?\u201d<\/p>\n Both she and Pisces shot Erin a sideways glance. The [Innkeeper] ignored it. She smiled at Grimalkin and Maughin. They both blinked at her. This was clearly not how they\u2019d expected to start their days. And yet\u2014Erin smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re just going for a walk in the city, Ceria. You know? Maybe to see Krshia and her lot?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Pisces snapped his fingers, looking amused. Ceria\u2019s eyes widened. She nodded silently. Grimalkin cleared his throat.<\/p>\n \u201cI suppose this is part of the plan you mentioned?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMaybe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat <\/em>plan?\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin warily looked from Erin to Grimalkin. The young woman opened her mouth. And then Numbtongue walked into the inn, with a huge basket of blue fruits cradled in one arm. He paused, staring at Maughin. The Dullahan turned. His face turned pale.<\/p>\n \u201cHob\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDown!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin roared. He didn\u2019t cast a spell, he just leapt forwards, one fist raised. Numbtongue recoiled, and Erin shouted.<\/p>\n \u201cNo! He\u2019s a friend!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA what?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake stopped. Numbtongue windmilled wildly, spilling blue fruits and catching the door\u2019s edge for balance. Maughin stared at him, and then at Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cI heard Goblins frequented your inn. But this?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He pointed at Numbtongue. The Hobgoblin stared at Grimalkin. The [Mage] eyed him from head to toe. He opened his mouth, hesitated, and then patted Numbtongue on one shoulder.<\/p>\n \u201cGood muscles.\u201d<\/p>\n He turned to Erin. She grinned weakly.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s Numbtongue. He\u2019s a Goblin, yeah. But he\u2019s my, uh, employee? And friend. He stays here. He\u2019s actually a [Bard].\u201d<\/p>\n She pointed at Numbtongue. He edged past Grimalkin with the blue fruits\u2019 basket in one arm. He paused and lifted his guitar, waved it once, and then put the basket on the nearest table. Erin coughed.<\/p>\n \u201cSo yeah. That\u2019s Numbtongue.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGoblins working at an inn. Well, it\u2019s your funeral, Miss Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin shook his head, bemused. He looked over at Maughin. The Dullahan seemed petrified by the sight of Numbtongue. The [Bard], eying Maughin\u2019s armor and huge form, was staying clear as well.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s nice! Don\u2019t worry, Numbtongue. Maughin\u2019s a [Blacksmith]. He\u2019s great! Really! And he can take his head off.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin tried to soothe Numbtongue. Grimalkin folded his arms, looking from Numbtongue to Maughin. The Dullahan hesitated. He looked back at the magic door. Mrsha trotted over to it, clicked<\/em> the dial, opened the door, and checked it. Celum and Octavia\u2019s shop briefly appeared. Mrsha clicked the dial, again, and the stand of blue fruit trees appeared. The Dullahan groaned and sat back down again.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is all too much.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s fine. It really is. Numbtongue, say hi! Don\u2019t shake your head at me! Maughin\u2019s great! Grimalkin\u2019s the one who could pull your head off. He\u2019s a Muscle Mage.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI think that term isn\u2019t quite appropriate\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re back. What did we\u2014oh.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin\u2019s head turned. Maughin\u2019s head turned. Grimalkin made a fist, caught himself, and stared. Ceria groaned slightly. Pisces grinned from ear to ear.<\/p>\n Yvlon and Ksmvr halted in the doorway as Liscor appeared behind them. The Human woman and Antinium stared at Maughin, then at Grimalkin. Erin glanced at Maughin too. The Dullahan had stopped breathing. She gingerly waved a hand.<\/p>\n \u201cHi Ksmvr. Yvlon.\u201d<\/p>\n Yvlon looked at her. She stared at Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cUh. Hi, Erin. We were having our morning training. Who\u2019re our guests?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThis is Maughin. He\u2019s a Dullahan. And this is Grimalkin. Uh, Maughin, Grimalkin, meet Yvlon and Ksmvr. They\u2019re part of the Horns of Hammerad. Yvlon\u2019s a [Warrior] and Ksmvr is\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAntinium.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin breathed the word. And for him, it was a note of horror. Horror, incredulity\u2014both were written across his face. Ksmvr tilted his head, then approached cheerfully. He stuck out his right hand.<\/p>\n \u201cAn Antinium, in point of fact. And I am no longer affiliated with my Hive. Good morning. I am Ksmvr, adventurer for hire.\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan recoiled. He looked at Erin with an expression of shock. She stared back innocently. Grimalkin broke the silence by stepping forwards. He peered at Ksmvr with narrowed eyelids. The Antinium turned towards him with an open hand. Grimalkin ignored it.<\/p>\n \u201cHm. Not bad. Not bad. I\u2019ve seen corpses and fought a few, but even the Workers have a very efficient build. Of course, insects\u2019 bodies are very efficient. No wasted fat. And four arms, excepting injuries in this case. Hm. I\u2019ve often wondered if it\u2019s inefficient.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have wondered the same thing. But I am very sturdy. You may attempt to push me over if you wish. May I shake your hand?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin eyed Ksmvr. He shook his head abruptly.<\/p>\n \u201cNo. I fought in both the First and Second Antinium Wars. And I forgot Liscor had a Hive. Well, this day does<\/em> get more and more interesting, doesn\u2019t it, Maughin?\u201d<\/p>\n He looked back at the Dullahan. Maughin stared palely at Ksmvr as the [Skirmisher] cheerfully turned to him. He looked at Erin. Then he gingerly reached out and shook the hand. Mainly to get Ksmvr to go away. But the Antinium just kept standing there after he was done. Maughin passed a hand over his pale face.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2026am not certain why I\u2019m here.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin bit her lip. She looked from Grimalkin, to Maughin, to Mrsha, who was happily sniffing Yvlon\u2019s boots, to Pisces who had stuffed part of his robe into his mouth to cover his laughter, to Numbtongue, who was eating a blue fruit and eying Grimalkin. Ceria met Erin\u2019s eyes. The two looked at each other and burst out laughing. It was Yvlon who sighed. And Ksmvr who brightly spread his arms.<\/p>\n \u201cWelcome to The Wandering Inn. My name is Ksmvr.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Liscor\u2019s streets were full of shouting. You could hear Lism\u2019s voice eight streets down. Krshia\u2019s growling shouts nine streets. But in this case at least, volume didn\u2019t matter. The debate about the elections was hot on everyone\u2019s tongues as they stood around and debated, or worked and chattered.<\/p>\n A Gnoll [Tailor] poked herself in the thumb as she debated with her assistants, both of whom were Drakes. A [Butcher] talked with his clients as he prepared a cut of meat.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Council\u2019s voted. We\u2019re having elections. A democracy. Like Pallass.<\/em> Who would have thought?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI think it\u2019s overdue. But who will you vote for?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, seeing as there\u2019s two choices right now, I\u2019ll have to vote for Raekea. She\u2019s in my district.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cVoting for your species? Come on now.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with that? What\u2019s wrong with a Gnoll on the Council?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNothing. If you\u2019re not selling Liscor to do it. Can we trust the Antinium?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI saw you going to Senior Guardsman Klbkch just the other day.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s different. This is about security. And if we can make some jobs and<\/em> guard our walls\u2014Strategist Olesm is with Lism.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLism\u2019s a racist old bag of wind.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI think he makes sense myself.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhen I <\/em>was young, the Antinium weren\u2019t here. And we got on fine ourselves.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s not just about the Antinium. If you\u2019re not voting for a Gnoll, that\u2019s racist.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSays who?\u201d<\/p>\n Debate. Arguments. But it was hard, harder now to argue for Krshia. Because the Antinium Wars were on the mind. And, fair play, Lism had his objectionable qualities. But then again, Krshia was fielding only Gnoll candidates, and Lism had now pushed forwards three Gnolls for his Council seats, all in Gnoll-heavy districts. How about that?<\/p>\n Market Street was abuzz with crowds listening to the debates. Selys was wincing as Lism hammered Krshia. He was pointing at the Gnoll and waving an arm to the crowd.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s a simple question! Let\u2019s have the Free Queen or Klbkch answer it, why don\u2019t we? Have the Antinium ever plotted to harm Liscor or its citizens in the last year?<\/em> Does the Grand Queen intend to pursue war with Liscor? How many Soldiers <\/em>does the Hive have?<\/em> Any of these questions\u2014any of them answered under truth spell! How about it, Silverfang? Can\u2019t we at least ask our \u2018allies\u2019 if they\u2019ve ever plotted to stab us in the back?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou and I know that the Free Antinium are not the same as the other Hives. And has Liscor<\/em> not plotted to attack the Free Antinium if it comes to battle? Tell me we do not have spells and measures in place for that very day?\u201d<\/p>\n Krshia\u2019s voice was weary and furious. Lism made a scoffing sound, amplified by his voice charm.<\/p>\n \u201cSafeguards, not plans of attack, Silverfang. And, might I add, who needs<\/em> to prepare for an attack amongst allies? Hm? How much are the Antinium offering now?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThirty percent<\/em> of the construction. Better than the Walled Cities would do. And they\u2019ll pay six thousand gold pieces per year\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAll of which is useless when we\u2019re lying with our throats slit in the streets. Or maybe it\u2019s just those of us who don\u2019t fall into line and wag our tails, is that it, Krshia? Tell me, did the Antinium buy your loyalty? And how much was it?\u201d<\/p>\n The crowd howled<\/em> with glee and outrage. Krshia snarled. Lism raised his claws, smiling unctuously at the crowd.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s just a question, people! But for our peace of mind, will you swear it on a truth spell? Oh wait\u2014I forgot. That\u2019s not something we should be doing.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTell me, do you really believe in your plan for the city? Or did you steal it from me and let your nephew, Olesm, take charge because you just couldn\u2019t stand the idea of a Gnoll on the Council that badly, Lism?\u201d<\/p>\n Krshia\u2019s retort and Lism\u2019s reply were lost by another set of jeering from the crowd. This time against Krshia. Selys, standing behind Krshia\u2019s platform, winced. She looked around and met Elirr\u2019s eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cShe\u2019s getting slaughtered up there!\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll [Beast Trainer] growled, visibly upset.<\/p>\n \u201cShe is. Where is Klbkch? Can he not answer any of these questions?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDo we want <\/em>him to?\u201d<\/p>\n Selys grabbed at her neck spines in frustration. She hated to admit it, but Lism had a point. A really good one that he was using to hammer Krshia with. They had to change the topic somehow! Lism, or rather, Olesm daring Klbkch to swear on a truth spell that he didn\u2019t have plans to attack Liscor was inspired. It was really bothering people, Selys included.<\/p>\n Of course, the Antinium probably had plans to attack Liscor. But they were allies. Right? Everyone had a backup plan. But\u2026why had Klbkch refused to take Olesm\u2019s bait, then? Couldn\u2019t he say something? Selys shook her head. Her claws trembled on her notes.<\/p>\n \u201cI can\u2019t do this. I\u2019m no [Strategist]\u2014I can\u2019t figure out anything good to say back! That stupid, eel-faced Lism is going to win! And all because\u2014where\u2019s Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe haven\u2019t seen her.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe promised she\u2019d do<\/em> something.\u201d<\/p>\n Elirr nodded gently.<\/p>\n \u201cBut what? She cannot perform miracles, no?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know. But it\u2019s Erin. If anyone can do something, it\u2019s her.\u201d<\/p>\n Despairingly, Selys turned her head. She knew it was unfair to pin so much on Erin. This wasn\u2019t even her city. Not really. But she was Selys\u2019 friend. Surely she could do something, right?<\/p>\n But what? The crowd erupted into more cheers, and Selys looked up to see Lism raising his arms and Krshia grimacing. It said it all. The elections weren\u2019t even happening yet\u2014the Council had tentatively put them a week from today. And already, it felt like it was over. Selys thought about confronting Olesm, asking him what it would take for Lism to back down\u2014disavowing the Antinium maybe. But could they hijack Lism\u2019s platform in return?<\/p>\n And then, Selys felt it. It was like a ripple through the crowd. She couldn\u2019t hear it\u2014Lism\u2019s voice was drowning out any other sound. But she felt it. A sudden lapse in attention. A turning, shifting, as people, with that animalistic instinct, realized something was going on behind them. And Selys turned. She whirled and knew.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Here she came. Three streets over, and strolling. Just walking along, chattering to the exceedingly buff Drake on her right. The giant, armored\u2026Human? On her left. Maughin and Grimalkin. Erin was pointing at the street, speaking louder than normal because of the distant shouting.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd this is a street. You like streets, don\u2019t you? I\u2019ll grant you, it\u2019s not as nice as Pallass\u2019 smooth stone walkways, but it\u2019s a good street.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRugged. Rounded cobblestones. They\u2019ve been worn smooth, but some are going to come loose and leave potholes. Definitely not ideal. You could roll an ankle more easily. But it\u2019s firm enough.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin glanced at the street dismissively. It seemed like the Magus of Muscles had an opinion about everything. Erin smiled. On her left, the Dullahan lowered his head and peered at her and Grimalkin, looking aggrieved.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy are we talking about streets?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry about it, Maughin. You wanna talk about clouds instead? Or Liscor\u2019s election?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m still trying to figure out what happened.\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan [Blacksmith]\u2019s voice was plaintive. He twisted his head from side to side, looking at the Gnolls and Drakes staring at him. And, oh, they were staring. Maughin put his head back on his shoulders and looked down at Erin and Grimalkin.<\/p>\n \u201cOne second I was at my forge. The next\u2014I\u2019m here. And I met an Antinium. An actual\u2026it makes sense when I think about it, but it\u2019s so abrupt.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou have to adapt. I\u2019ve had this kind of experience\u2014only in battle, not walking down the street. The suddenness of change. One second, you\u2019re marching with your friends, the next, someone\u2019s cast an [Earthquake] spell, and you\u2019re clinging for dear life while a rock splits open your friend\u2019s skull. Adaptability. I try to teach that too to my apprentices.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin nodded to himself. He eyed the streets full of people. Some of the Gnolls were sniffing<\/em> as they passed. Erin smiled. Could they smell Pallass? She checked behind her and noticed the small crowd staring at their backs. She patted Maughin on the lower back.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s alright. Sorry for dragging you through like that and surprising you with Numbtongue and Ksmvr. I forgot how weird they are to most people. They\u2019re here every day.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGoblins and Antinium. I can\u2019t fathom it. Actually, the Goblin I can understand. I did hear about the Goblin\u2019s Lament Company. It was formed\u2014and then declared invalid\u2014before I ever came to Izril. But Antinium?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cKsmvr\u2019s just like anyone else. Okay, he\u2019s sort of different, but you shook his hand. He\u2019s nice. They\u2019re not all enemies, right, Grimalkin?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Sinew Magus] shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m withholding judgment.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, as long as you don\u2019t punch anyone\u2019s head off. And what\u2019s wrong with walking down the street in Liscor? They have elections. Pallass has elections. Ours are going on right now, actually.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin nodded. He\u2019d heard Lism shouting and some of the arguments on display. He adjusted his head, raising it to peek over a crowd of bodies ahead of him. A Drake saw that and fainted. Maughin put his head on his shoulders, looking embarrassed.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s still surreal. One second we were in Pallass. The next? Here. This is grand magic. Beyond me. The idea that a door like this always existed in Pallass\u2026why has no one used it?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin smiled to herself. She led the two down the next street, hearing the shouting growing louder, and the press of bodies grew more difficult to push through. But Maughin and Grimalkin generated the bubble of space big, imposing fellows got.<\/p>\n \u201cProbably because Liscor\u2019s a nowhere border city, right? You could have always come through, right? You just didn\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI never had a reason to.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNor I.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin and Maughin exchanged a thoughtful glance. Erin\u2019s smile widened, and she threw an arm around both. Well, Grimalkin\u2019s lower chest and Maughin\u2019s armored buttock.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd now you\u2019re here! It\u2019s great! And here we are! Market Street, or Arguing Street, really. The two candidates for Liscor\u2019s election are shouting down here. I think this is where we\u2019ll find Selys and that Gnoll I want you to meet, Maughin. And maybe Relc if there\u2019s a lot of fighting.\u201d<\/p>\n She pointed through a wall of bodies. Maughin frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cWill we make it through? I see two people on platforms, but there must be several hundred\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry! Just follow me!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin waved at Maughin. He reluctantly stepped after her. The back of the crowd, who had been watching Lism and Krshia argue, noticed the sudden shadow. They turned back. They could easily miss Erin, maybe even Grimalkin. But Maughin was head-and-shoulders taller than the tallest Gnoll. Erin heard a few screams and some shouts.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is that?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA Human? A half-Giant?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA Dullahan? Here?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey! It\u2019s that Human! You know what that means\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Erin ignored all of it, especially that last comment. She waved her hands, shouting cheerfully, and she channeled her best Robin Williams.<\/p>\n \u201cMake way! Make way! We\u2019re just having a walk! Excuse me! Don\u2019t mind us!\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin waved a hand, gently edging forwards. And as more Drakes and Gnolls turned their heads, hearing Erin shouting, they stared.<\/p>\n \u201cGrimalkin, this way! Watch the muscles, ladies! He\u2019s got a ten-pack. Muscle Mage, don\u2019t you know? Excuse me! Some room for Maughin! He\u2019s a [Blacksmith]! [Armorer]! It\u2019s close! Don\u2019t stare!\u201d<\/p>\n For some reason, people weren\u2019t listening to Erin\u2019s pleas for anonymity. On the other hand, they were making good progress. The crowd parted, and the electric attention on Lism and Krshia began to fade. Accordingly, more people began to notice and turn. Erin and her two friends were halfway towards the two debaters on their platforms when they noticed. Lism turned his head, breaking off as he felt the eyes on him turning elsewhere.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd as I was saying the\u2014the Antinium can\u2019t be\u2014what is that?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n His voice, and the pointing claw, pushed all the attention onto Maughin. The [Smith] flushed. Uncomfortably, he adjusted his head. Lism stared. And then the young woman\u2019s voice rose. Erin\u2019s [Loud Voice] Skill made her words echo across the crowd and adjoining streets.<\/p>\n \u201cHey! Rude! What\u2019s with the pointing? Excuse me, yes, excuse me, we\u2019re just passing through! Keep moving! You can get back to debating after we\u2019re gone!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cErin.\u201d<\/p>\n Krshia breathed the word. And there she appeared. Laughing, waving her hands, creating a path in people as easily as a [Hydromancer] shifting the waters of a lake.<\/p>\n \u201cMake way for Maughin, fabulous he! Dullahan [Blacksmith], best in Pallass! He\u2019s got a dozen apprentices! And Grimalkin, the famous muscle mage! Don\u2019t worry, we\u2019re just having a stroll! Nobody stare!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n She danced forwards.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t mind us. Haven\u2019t you seen a Dullahan before? And a really muscly [Mage]?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin laughed. Lism turned his head to stare behind him. And Olesm, standing in the street behind his uncle\u2019s platform, went pale. He signaled desperately, but Lism\u2019s mouth was faster. He turned.<\/p>\n \u201cClearly some ploy, by Krshia and that Human, folks. Don\u2019t mind him. What am I saying? Give him some room. Dullahans from Pallass? Ah yes. Well, the Dullahans. Traditional allies of the Drakes. Well, of course, we\u2019re pleased to have you in our city, sir!\u201d<\/p>\n He smiled and waved at Maughin. The Dullahan, already uncomfortable, raised his head and turned it to stare at Lism. The Drake turned pale. The [Armorer] shook his head, perplexed.<\/p>\n \u201cTraditional allies? I\u2019m sorry\u2026sir. But our species have not historically been allies. We were great enemies during the time of Dragons.\u201d<\/p>\n He frowned deeply. A murmur ran through the crowd at that. Erin sighed, but her eyes sparkled. And on her platform, Krshia bared her teeth. She called over at Lism, who\u2019d gone red with embarrassment.<\/p>\n \u201cHistorical enemies, you say? But Dullahans are a welcome part of Pallass now. It makes you think\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHush!\u201d<\/p>\n To everyone\u2019s surprise, it was Erin<\/em> who interrupted Krshia. She frowned up at the Gnoll and made a zipping motion with her mouth. Krshia stared at her. But Erin was pushing forwards again.<\/p>\n \u201cExcuse me. Is Selys here? I\u2019m looking for Selys! My friend?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHere! I\u2019m here, Erin!\u201d<\/p>\n A claw rose over the crowd, and Selys eagerly pushed through the crowd. Lism spluttered from his platform, but Olesm had gotten to him and anxiously shushed his uncle to silence. Erin beamed at Selys as the crowd stopped, witness to her meeting with Selys. She gestured at Grimalkin and Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cSelys! Great to see you. I wanted to introduce you to two of my friends from Pallass. Remember how I told you about them? Grimalkin, this is Selys. She\u2019s, uh, Zel\u2019s niece. My best friend and a [Receptionist] at the Adventurer\u2019s Guild. Selys, this is Grimalkin. And Master Maughin!\u201d<\/p>\n She pointed up. Bemused, Selys offered a hand. Maughin shook it, looking dazedly around at the staring faces. Selys stared at his giant hand. And then Grimalkin seized her claws and gave them a bone-crushing shake.<\/p>\n \u201cMiss Shivertail, I met your uncle a handful of times. But there was a [General] I could respect. He understood something about the physical form. He would have made a wonderful [Mage], but I\u2019m afraid he never took to it. Still, I\u2019ve never met someone with manual dexterity like that. And his claws! Those were on par with a national treasure alone!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. Oh? You knew Uncle Zel?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI did indeed. A truly impressive leader. May I ask if you take after him?\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin jumped.<\/p>\n \u201cSelys Shivertail? The owner of the Heartflame Breastplate?\u201d<\/p>\n He bent down again, eyes wide. Selys looked up at him.<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014yes, I have it. But\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe just wants to see it, Selys. Nothing big. I promised he could look. That\u2019s fine, right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOf course. I mean, the City Watch has it in the vaults when no one\u2019s wearing it. I leased it to Keldrass, but he doesn\u2019t keep it when he\u2019s not in the dungeon. Uh\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe may<\/em> be historical enemies with Dullahans, but cooperation between all species is essential! And Pallass\u2019 citizens coming to Liscor proves that ties between our cities are more important than ever! Remember, this is about the Antinium, people!\u201d<\/p>\n Lism bellowed over their heads. Erin shook her fist at him.<\/p>\n \u201cShut up! This is a private meeting! Stop eavesdropping, jerk!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cErin!\u201d<\/p>\n Selys couldn\u2019t bear it any further. She grabbed Erin as Lism spluttered. She could feel Olesm\u2019s eyes on her, but she<\/em> had no idea what was happening either. She whispered at Erin as the young woman obligingly bent an ear to listen.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat are you doing?<\/em> Drassi didn\u2019t tell me what the plan was! What should Krshia say? Are we having the Dullahan speak? What is it?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin looked blankly at Selys. Then she frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cPlan? What, you think I brought Maughin and Grimalkin about the elections? That\u2019s not why I brought them. Maughin wants to see your Heartflame Breastplate. Grimalkin wants to meet Relc. Oh! And we need to meet Raekea. Where is she?\u201d<\/p>\n Selys gaped.<\/p>\n \u201cNot on this street. She\u2019s speaking in Dragondance Plaza, that way. But Erin\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot on this street? Aw, man. Well, we\u2019ll go see her. Can we see the armor? You can bring it by the inn. Please? Maughin will flip if he sees it. Not literally, I hope.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin glanced over her shoulder, her eyes twinkling. That stopped Selys from shaking her friend. She stood back, watching as Erin turned to address Grimalkin and Maughin. She was ready for Erin to make a speech, to somehow flip this on Lism. But all Erin did was shrug.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry! Wrong street! Raekea\u2019s not here. Selys is going to get the armor, Maughin. Let\u2019s go visit Raekea, shall we? Hey, Selys, do you know where Relc is?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cN-no.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin nodded. She cheerfully shouted, addressing Selys, Maughin, Grimalkin, and the crowd as a whole.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ll stop by the Watch House, then. Follow me!\u201d<\/p>\n And with that, Erin turned and began walking back down the street. It was so abrupt that everyone stared. Maughin turned, his face one permanent frown; Grimalkin walked after Erin, grinning and clearly enjoyed himself\u2014Krshia stared at Erin\u2019s back.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re leaving? But Erin\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman turned back. She blinked back at Krshia. The Gnoll waved her arms wildly, much like Mrsha using sign language. Erin shrugged. And her expression was blank.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry. I\u2019m just showing my friends around. You can get back to shouting, you guys! Maughin, Grimalkin, this way! Let\u2019s go find Raekea! And Relc! Make way!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n And she left. Maughin trailed after Erin, turning his head to look around. And the wide-eyed crowd returned his gaze. They watched as Erin, the legendary, crazy Human of Liscor, left. Accompanied by a giant Dullahan [Blacksmith] and a\u2026[Mage] who would have given Relc\u2019s muscles a run for their money.<\/p>\n \u201cWell. Well\u2014that\u2019s just\u2014clearly a sign of\u2014good to see support from Pallass.\u201d<\/p>\n Lism\u2019s voice trailed off weakly. A few heads turned to look at him. The Drake [Shopkeeper] cleared his throat.<\/p>\n \u201cSo. As I was saying\u2026Krshia Silverfang, your refusal to look at the facts is just disgraceful! Even traitorous! I\u2014hold on, where are you going?\u201d<\/p>\n Lism\u2019s head turned. The crowd was moving. Like a flock of fish\u2014or sheep\u2014or really interested dogs following a bone, they were suddenly trailing after Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cHold on! We\u2019re not done debating!\u201d<\/p>\n Lism called after the crowd. Krshia uncertainly looked at Erin\u2019s back. But the crowd barely glanced back. Someone shouted up at Lism.<\/p>\n \u201cI know, but I really want to know what she\u2019s<\/em> going to do with those two. We\u2019ll be back!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHold on! This is for the future of Liscor!\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake howled, but the crowd didn\u2019t listen. And that was the point. Suddenly, the street was nearly empty. Behind Lism, Olesm uttered a curse. And Selys felt a delighted smile cross her mouth. She looked up at Krshia. The Gnoll climbed down the platform. Elirr looked at both of them. Selys glanced at Olesm, who was tearing at his neck spines. Then she leaned forwards.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll get my armor. Elirr, you help me bring it to the inn. Krshia, better get there too.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll grinned. And as Selys turned her head, she could still hear Erin in the distance.<\/p>\n \u201cNothing to see here! Move along! Really. Hey, why\u2019s everyone following us?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Raekea the [Armorer] looked up from her platform and stared. She had been shouting, arguing against one of Lism\u2019s candidates for City Council. And frankly, she had been miserable doing it. She was no [Orator], [Diplomat], or anything close to a speaker. Metal didn\u2019t argue back, and Raekea generally didn\u2019t have a crowd watching her sweat. So it was a relief to be interrupted.<\/p>\n But what an interruption. The young woman smiled up at her. And the Dullahan was only a bit shorter than Raekea on her speaking platform. Erin Solstice bowed, a delighted smile on her face.<\/p>\n \u201cMaughin, may I present Raekea, the best [Armorer] in Liscor? This is Maughin, Raekea. He\u2019s a blacksmith too. An [Armorer], to be precise. Just like you. The best in all of Pallass.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMiss Raekea? I am Maughin. I am gratified to make your acquaintance at last.\u201d<\/p>\n A huge hand rose. Raekea grasped it with her own tough paw.<\/p>\n \u201cP-pleased. Master Maughin?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAmong smiths, we are equals, are we not?\u201d<\/p>\n The Dullahan inclined his head. Raekea nearly inhaled her tongue. Maughin?<\/em> The same Dullahan who stamped his insignia on the finest Pallassian arms? In front of her? She looked at Erin. The young woman beamed.<\/p>\n \u201cI wanted to introduce you to Maughin. So he can see what he\u2019s up against in Liscor\u2019s forges. And maybe you could talk to him about selling your stuff to Celum and Humans. You know?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2014I\u2019d be honored. But my forge is humble. And I\u2019m sure I haven\u2019t the levels to compare to Master Maughin. Not by half. I can\u2019t\u2026this is very sudden, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n Raekea felt faint. Lightheaded at the sudden, strange turn of events. She saw a look of sympathy cross Maughin\u2019s face. He turned to Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are imposing.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNonsense! Okay, we are. But I think you two should chat! Can\u2019t we all take a break from this election thing and have some fun just talking about how hard it is to hit stuff with hammers? I\u2019m down for that.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin protested, ignoring the huge crowd watching her every move. And Raekea saw it. That sparkle in Erin\u2019s eyes. Slowly, she nodded, slipping down from her platform. She bowed again to Maughin.<\/p>\n \u201cI would be delighted. And of course. The election can wait.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo there is an election in Liscor. It parallels our own. May I ask who\u2019s running against each other?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, that\u2019s a bunch of Drakes. Lism, that shouty guy who thought you were traditional allies? He wants to build Liscor without using the Antinium\u2019s help. Raekea\u2019s with Krshia. They want Gnolls on the Council.\u201d<\/p>\n Maughin nodded slowly. He\u2019d absorbed some of the nuance of the politics. His brows drew together as he glanced around. He wasn\u2019t exactly shouting, but the crowd wasn\u2019t exactly talking over him either.<\/p>\n \u201cAh. Gnolls have not been traditionally part of Liscor\u2019s Council?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt is an issue that has come into light in Pallass as well. Dullahans occupy two seats out of hundreds. Despite the fact that we are a growing minority. Garuda have no seats. I hope the Gnolls of Liscor can claim some seats on the Council. Not that I understand the details of your election.\u201d<\/p>\n Raekea cleared her throat, trying not to glance at her opponent, Alonna Swiftwing, the poised Mage\u2019s Guildmistress, glaring at her from her podium.<\/p>\n \u201cI would be pleased.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGreat! And now we can go back to the inn. Come on, Raekea. I bet Selys has the armor by now.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin cheerfully waved at her group. As if there were nothing out of the ordinary. Raekea blinked. Maughin looked resigned. The Gnoll woman saw another Drake folding his arms next to Erin. And he was\u2026built. Raekea was married to a [Blacksmith], but she looked twice at this Drake\u2019s body.<\/p>\n \u201cWho is this?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin slapped her forehead.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry. Raekea, meet Grimalkin. He\u2019s a Muscle Mage from Pallass.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI keep telling you. That is not<\/em> an appropriate term for my magic.\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake unfolded one arm and gave Raekea\u2019s paw a squeeze like a vice. The Gnoll shook her paw and stared at Grimalkin. Erin raised her hands.<\/p>\n \u201cHow am I supposed to know what you do? Muscle Mage. [Sinew Magus]. What does it mean? You store magic in your muscles. And?\u201d<\/p>\n The question threw Grimalkin. He closed his eyes, began to look annoyed\u2014and then caught himself. He cracked one eye open and glanced at Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cAha. You\u2019re quite deceptive, Miss Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n She grinned at him.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd your brain is as muscly as your\u2026legs. But I\u2019m serious. Care to show us?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake thought it over.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, since you\u2019ve set the stage\u2026I could always use new apprentices. And publicity. Why not? But let\u2019s get one thing straight, Miss Solstice. I\u2019m not the \u2018Muscle Mage of Pallass\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh really? What are you?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin threw his arms wide. He roared, surprising Maughin, Raekea, and the citizens of Liscor clustered around.<\/p>\n \u201cPallass\u2019 greatest [Mage]! <\/em>Grimalkin, the Fist Mage! Laugh! And they do laugh in Wistram. But I have dueled Archmages. And my magic is second to none! Look. They say Archmage Amerys can fly across the oceans. But can she do this?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake knelt. And then he sprang up. He leapt<\/em> over Erin and Raekea\u2019s heads. Up, into the sky. As if gravity had no hold on him. Erin\u2019s jaw dropped as Grimalkin nimbly landed. On a rooftop fifty<\/em> feet distant. The Drake turned, and his voice roared over the plaza.<\/p>\n \u201cTrue [Mages] are more than walking tanks of mana! True [Mages] can fight!<\/em> If you run out of spells, stand and fight with your companions! Trust your body, not just your mind! Cowards hide behind their comrades! If you\u2019re a [Mage]\u2014fight! <\/em>And this will be your reward!\u201d<\/p>\n He leapt down like a falling anvil. The crowd scattered, but Grimalkin landed as lightly as a cat. Erin whistled. Grimalkin strode forwards, looking around.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat can I lift? That wagon? No. It\u2019ll break. A few Gnolls? Bah. No help for it. [Stone Shaping].\u201d<\/p>\n He bent and pulled<\/em> part of the plaza up. A cubed block of stone with two grooves near the top rose out of the ground. Grimalkin waved a hand at the awed murmurs.<\/p>\n \u201cThat isn\u2019t the magic. People of Liscor! This is what a body can do. Observe! This is without a single spell cast!\u201d<\/p>\n So saying, he gripped the chunk of stone by the two handholds and, with a grunt, hefted<\/em> it up to chest-level. This time Erin gulped. If that stone was solid all the way though, it had to weigh hundreds of pounds. Grimalkin\u2019s voice shook only slightly.<\/p>\n \u201cConditioning. Weight. Balance\u2014and now\u2014lift!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He shifted his grip, and then the block rotated<\/em>. The roar from the crowd was awed as the block swung overhead in a motion like a weightlifter doing a clean and press. The boulder rose into the air as Grimalkin roared.<\/em> Erin watched as he lifted up over his head. The Drake roared, and his arms and voice shook.<\/p>\n \u201cWith muscle alone! And now, with magic!\u201d<\/p>\n His arms shook. He closed his eyes, and Erin feared that any moment the block would drop on him. Then Grimalkin\u2019s eyes opened, and he bellowed.<\/p>\n \u201c[Lion\u2019s Strength\u2014]<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The shaking arms stopped. Grimalkin stood straight, holding the block of stone over his head with both arms. Then he tossed it up. Planted one claw under the center of the block. And the block landed. Erin heard, felt a thump<\/em> of impact. And Grimalkin stood holding it with one arm over his head. The audience gasped. Grimalkin grinned around them. Then casually, he lowered his arm. And he hurled the boulder straight up.<\/p>\n \u201cOh my\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin\u2019s shout was one of a thousand voices crying out in panic. The boulder flew up, ten, twenty feet. And it started coming down, gently at first, but then with all the weight of a meteor falling to earth. Grimalkin stood where he was as the crowd, suddenly aware of the falling stone, ran for it, screaming. He pointed up as the boulder hurled down towards the ground in front of him.<\/p>\n \u201c[Water Colossus\u2019 Grasp]!\u201d<\/p>\n A roaring tide of water rushed around Erin\u2019s legs, drenching them in a second. She yelped as the water swirled up into a gigantic hand, impossibly fast. It caught<\/em> the stone cube as it fell, and the heavy weight sank into the watery arm. Grimalkin pointed, and the stone crunched<\/em> down on the ground where he\u2019d pulled it out of the earth. Liscor\u2019s citizens turned to stare. Grimalkin leapt up nimbly and spread his arms. Then he flexed.<\/em><\/p>\n Every muscle on Grimalkin\u2019s body stood out as the Drake struck a pose like one of the Grecian statues from Erin\u2019s world. He held the pose as, with lungs of steel, he bellowed at the crowd.<\/p>\n \u201cStrength! Adaptability! A [Mage] with a body like a [Soldier] has no weaknesses! Behold! I practice a magic like no other! Spellcraft and stamina! Muscle and magic! Fight on the front and cast spells with the authority of a true mage!\u201d<\/p>\n He raised his arms and struck a herculean pose.<\/p>\n \u201cHm!<\/em> And what do you say? Any takers?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin gazed around at his audience expectantly. The Drakes and Gnolls stared up at him. And then they burst into wild applause. Grimalkin sighed, then turned and waved at the crowd. He dismounted from the boulder, shaking hands and asking questions. Erin, dumbstruck, had to wait for nearly five minutes until Grimalkin won clear. To her surprise, the [Mage] was shaking his head when he approached them.<\/p>\n \u201cNo takers. Lots of applause, but there always is when I do this for the first time. A shame, really. But maybe I\u2019ve set the seeds. It is an uphill battle. There\u2019s your demonstration, Miss Erin. Shall we go?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWh\u2014but I\u2014that was amazing!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin burst out, waving her arms over her head. She pointed at the boulder and the rooftop Grimalkin had jumped to, almost too excited for words.<\/p>\n \u201cHow? That\u2019s incredible! Pisces can [Flash Step], but that was like Superman! Over a building in a single bound!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, it\u2019s only two-stories high. And [Flash Step] is a poor spell compared to physical enhancement spells. One is a set spell. The other one scales off of the body\u2019s own prowess. I dare say only I could jump that far with a basic spell, but the principle applies to all [Mages] if they\u2019d just get out there and do some pushups.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin modestly shook his head. He casually kicked the stone cube, and it melted back into the earth. He noticed Erin, Maughin, and Raekea\u2019s stares and shrugged, slightly pleased.<\/p>\n \u201cI did<\/em> say I was a [Mage], didn\u2019t I? Then again, you wouldn\u2019t be the first to assume my spell repertoire is limited. Hardly. I just believe in not wasting magic. Shall we go back to the inn?\u201d<\/p>\n He began walking. Erin trailed after him. Grimalkin massaged his arms, looking a bit pained as he went. He nodded back at Erin as she followed him, mouth still ready to catch flies.<\/p>\n \u201cWhew. I didn\u2019t expect to do my traditional demonstration today. It takes a toll, even with experience. Was that what you wanted, Miss Erin? Part of the plan?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBetter. You earned your cake!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMm. I\u2019m glad. And quite interested to see what you\u2019ll do next. Say. You! You there!\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin paused. He pointed at someone in the crowd. The Drake stopped, chewing on a stick of dried meat.<\/p>\n \u201cMe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, you. You have the makings of a real [Mage]. Give me ten years\u2014no, half that, and I\u2019ll turn you into a spellcaster as fine as any Wistram graduate. What do you say?\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin eyed the other Drake\u2019s body appreciatively. The Drake in question blushed.<\/p>\n \u201cMe? I never thought about being a [Mage]. What do you think, Erin? I don\u2019t like the robes, but I\u2019m not bad myself, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n Relc lifted one arm. Grimalkin nodded. Erin laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cRelc! Grimalkin, this is the Gecko of Liscor himself!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAw, Erin\u2014you know I hate that name!\u201d<\/p>\n The [Sergeant] looked disgruntled. Grimalkin\u2019s eyes went up and down Relc.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is the Gecko? I thought he\u2019d be far scrawnier. No wonder you made it through so many battles. Put it here. Grimalkin. [Sinew Magus]\u2014and the Muscle Mage of Pallass, apparently. You, my friend, are an inspiration.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI am?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow can you not be? Here\u2019s a [Sergeant] mixed with a [Spearmaster] who, not with overpowering Skills or weapons, did in enemy after enemy with nothing but his muscles and speed!\u201d<\/p>\n He gestured to Relc, who had turned bright red under his green scales. Grimalkin slapped Relc on the shoulder and roared the word Erin knew was coming.<\/p>\n \u201cTesticles!<\/em> If Pallass\u2019 army had half the testicles you do, we wouldn\u2019t have lost half the wars with the other Walled Cities! Can I get you to give a small demonstration of your abilities to my apprentices, sir? They could use the motivation.\u201d<\/p>\n He looked expectantly at Relc. The [Guardsman] swallowed his bite of meat. He looked at Erin. She grinned at him. Relc leaned over.<\/p>\n \u201cI really like this guy. Hey, I heard you were doing something weird. Looks like it. Who\u2019s the War Walker?\u201d<\/p>\n He nodded at Maughin. The Dullahan looked affronted and pleased. Erin laughed as she introduced him.<\/p>\n \u201cMaughin, this is Relc! Don\u2019t mind him. We\u2019re all going to the inn, Relc. Want to come along? I\u2019ve got lots of cake and ice cream.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c