The roads of Izril were not made of stone. In most places, they were dirt, packed and worn smooth by travel, but prey to the elements. It was a sign that Izril had not yet been fully developed. Far from it. While the Drakes and Gnolls occupied most of southern Izril, the Humans who had taken the north had yet to fully claim every part of their half.<\/p>\n
Like Baleros, the deserts of Chandrar, and the highest mountains, deepest valleys and caverns and of course, the vast sea, parts of the world were simply unknown. A place for [Explorers] and [Travellers] to seek, or the truest sort of adventurers. The ones who actually earned the class, [Adventurer].<\/p>\n
And yet, perhaps it wasn\u2019t that Izril lay unclaimed, but that what had once been occupied land had reverted to wilderness over the passing of countless years. Once, Dragons had flown Izril\u2019s skies. Once, the north had held Walled Cities of their own. But they were long gone. And so Izril was untamed and the roads were dirt by decay as much as vastness.<\/p>\n
Not so in Terandria. Many roads were stone, owing to the ancient kingdoms which endured. Memory and tradition in Terandria mattered more. So the roads were stone. In Chandrar, some roads were stone, but the relentless sand and deserts wore down even the most sturdy edifices. And in Baleros? The jungle encroached, and where civilization reigned, there were fine trade routes, meticulously maintained, modern. And where there was jungle, a dirt road was a luxury.<\/p>\n
Rhir had roads only behind the walls. If the Demons had roads, well, Talia Kallinad had never heard. Surely they must. But the [Summer Knight], elder sister to Wil Kallinad and potentially heir to the Kallinad family if she married, had never visited Rhir. Someday she would. As a member of the Order of Seasons, she had sworn to champion righteous causes and fight monsters and evil wherever she found it.<\/p>\n
As a Knight of the Summer she was even more dedicated to that ideal than her peers. Her nature was fire and heat. The Summer Knights burned like their season, shining brightly and challenging monsters wherever they roamed.<\/p>\n
Perhaps it was silly, an old ideal. [Knights]? Crusades? To many, Talia\u2019s class and the ideals of her Order were older, a relic of bygone days when Dragons were plentiful. But there was still a place in the world for [Knights], Talia knew, and not just on Terandria.<\/p>\n
And yet, here she was. The young woman\u2019s head dipped, and she gazed down at the horse she was riding. The mare was unaccustomed to her and prone to drifting left across the dirt road. Talia absently corrected her, regretting that her warhorse, a mare trained to fight alongside her mistress, was thousands of miles distant, in the Order of Seasons. But Talia had left the Order, and the road back was long.<\/p>\n
Long, and painful. She glanced to one side and saw a flash of silver and green. A [Knight] rode to her left. Not a [Summer Knight] as she was, but a fellow member of the Order of Seasons. He was a [Spring Knight], sworn to the Season of Spring.<\/p>\n
Normally, the youngest season, generally comprised of junior knights who were finding their path, were overeager, ready to do what was necessary, as befitted their nature. But at the moment, the young [Knight]\u2019s head was bowed. Like Talia, he was not wearing a helmet, and she could see the anger and shame written across his features. And it was mirrored across the rest of their company.<\/p>\n
Nineteen. Thirteen of them were clad in spring\u2019s bright colors, and six in the shining gold and orange and yellow of summer. That was how many [Knights] rode down the dirt trail. Each wore the armor of their Season, spring and summer, and each was armed for battle. Spears, javelins, morning stars, swords, shields, lances\u2014their equipment was as varied as could be.<\/p>\n
They were experts in combat, and indeed, the few travellers they met stared at so many [Knights]. But the Order of Seasons was not riding on a grand crusade. For one thing, most of their horses were poorly trained for combat, having been bought from the nearest stables. For another\u2014Talia\u2019s hand clenched as she gently steered the mare back on track\u2014they had been on said grand crusade against evil. And they had\u2026failed.<\/p>\n
Nearly a week past, the Order of Seasons had gone to war with one of the greatest enemies of their Order. The Stitch Witch, Belavierr, who had haunted Terandria past the reach of any living memory. To slay her, Ser Raim and a group of [Hunters] had come from Terandria, making use of a grand magic to travel across the world and slay her. Talia and the rest of the [Knights] had come after them, to fight Belavierr\u2019s creations and safeguard Ser Raim and the [Hunters] until they could slay Belavierr.<\/p>\n
They had failed. Failed, for treachery had ended the [Hunters]. And the Stitch Witch had threatened the Order of Seasons while keeping hostages to ensure her survival. Ser Raim had died trying to slay her. And so Talia and the rest of the Order had been forced to watch as Belavierr walked away. They had been ordered to avoid pursuing her and return home.<\/p>\n
That was the background that led Talia and her company riding across Izril\u2019s dirt roads. Each had fought Belavierr\u2019s minions. Some bore new scars; Talia herself had a nearly-perfectly healed scar on her left leg, from an enchanted arrow that had gone straight through the plain, unenchanted steel of her armor. She didn\u2019t begrudge the slight line of a scar at all, but she was tormented by her failure.<\/p>\n
Ser Raim was dead. The [Hunters] were dead. And here she was, thousands of miles from home having failed<\/em> to slay Belavierr. All that effort and magic and lives! Wasted for nothing!<\/p>\n Her companions shared Talia\u2019s mood. To say they were discontented was to fail to describe their mood in every sense of the word. In fact, in the last seven days, they had barely spoken. But at last, one of them began to speak.<\/p>\n \u201cBrothers and sisters, what shall we say upon our return? I cannot think of how I shall look at my comrades. Nor do I feel worthy of the crest I bear.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia looked up and saw a dark-skinned man, Ser Raist of the Season of Summer, gesturing at his shield. The radiant sigil upon his armor shone in the light as he shifted on his horse.<\/p>\n For a moment, the other [Knights] looked up, surprised at the voice after so much silence. But then they turned to Ser Raist. Talia gritted her teeth. Raist was newest to the Season of Summer out of all six [Summer Knights] present, including herself. She wished he hadn\u2019t voiced his opinions so; it was the kind of thing one of the Spring Knights would have said.<\/p>\n The Season of Summer was like an older sibling to the Season of Spring, usually, and their [Knights] tried to be mentors and teachers, at least in the art of war and valor to their juniors. Still, he was a fellow member of her Season, so she respected his opinion and nodded at him.<\/p>\n \u201cYour guilt is shared among us all, Ser Raist. But as to how we shall return\u2014surely you jest? We must return speaking of what we have seen! Shouting the glory of the battle we witnessed, the treachery and failure. But above all\u2014the glory of it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe glory, Dame Talia? I saw no glory. Only a traitor and the death of one of our finest. I beheld evil, and it haunts me.\u201d<\/p>\n That came from a Spring Knight. Dame Ingrela. She was nearly Talia\u2019s age, but a junior in terms of knighthood; she had taken longer to earn her shield. She looked at Talia, respectful, but haunted. Many of the Spring Knights did; Talia glanced to her side and another [Knight] wearing bright colors of summer shook his head.<\/p>\n Ser Lorell, the most senior of their group, looked around. A few strands of white ran through his beard, but he was hale as the youngest of them. He raised his voice as he echoed Talia\u2019s sentiments.<\/p>\n \u201cDame Ingrela, I have seen the same evil as you have. And it troubles me as much as any present. But Dame Talia is right. We have seen a story! And we have battled a legend, albeit dark! That alone is worthy of song. When we return, let us speak of that battle!\u201d<\/p>\n He was about to say more, but met Talia and the other Summer Knight\u2019s eyes meaningfully. The only other female Summer Knight, Dame Chise, shook her head meaningfully. Ser Raist and the Knights of the Spring didn\u2019t understand yet, and the lesson should be driven home, not spelled out weakly.<\/p>\n Another [Knight] wearing green was next to speak. He bowed in his saddle, but his face was bleak.<\/p>\n \u201cWith respect, Ser Lorell, I would be ashamed to boast of my feats on the battlefield. Or any of our company, as much as it shames me to say. To think we prided ourselves on holding back the Stitch Witch\u2019s creations! Yet, her true aims struck our very heart. But for our failure, Ser Raim might have triumphed. Instead, he lies dead! And the [Hunters]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n He choked on his words. The other [Knights] bowed their heads. So did Talia, for a moment. They had fought<\/em>, it was true. It hurt to think that their battle throughout the night would never be told. Talia still remembered fighting side-by-side with her sisters and brothers as creatures both undead and made of cloth assailed her.<\/p>\n They had held the ground for hours in the darkness, fighting an army of creatures. It was a tale equal to any battle Talia had ever fought in! But in truth, that had just been a diversion, barely worthy of a paragraph, a sentence.<\/p>\n The true tale had been of Ser Raim. Of the [Hunters] and the traitor. Of the Stitch Witch and her daughter. Talia and the other Knights of Seasons had been petty actors on a stage of history. And Belavierr had lived to continue walking down her dark path.<\/p>\n \u201cHow can you speak of songs, Ser Lorell? Should we not be castigated for our failures instead? I would resign my shield and arms if the Spring\u2019s Warden demanded it of me.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Ingrela was shaking her head, her face bleak. Talia looked at Lorell. He waited a beat for anyone else to voice their opinions, and then replied in a steady voice.<\/p>\n \u201cI say we should sing of it, Dame Ingrela! Sing of the evil we witnessed, and shout of the battles we fought and saw done! Or will you say that Ser Raim died a failure? Should we look to our own failures first and speak of woe and terror, or remember the champion who died? What of Dame Essa, or Ser Valliad? Ser Zahil? Ser Pitres? Will you call their deaths wasted?\u201d<\/p>\n The question hit the younger [Knight] and the others riding with them. Talia saw Ingrela\u2019s face drain of color.<\/p>\n \u201cI would never! I\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Lorell held up a hand. Metal shone off his gauntlet.<\/p>\n \u201cI know you thought only of our failures when you spoke, Dame Ingrela. But remember, all of you. We bear our sins and shortcomings with earned weight. But to sully the valor of our fallen companions? No. When we return, speak first of the heroism you saw. Reflect on your guilt afterwards.\u201d<\/p>\n His words silenced the group. Shame flooded any number of faces. Ingrela ducked her head.<\/p>\n \u201cI have much to learn still, Ser Lorell, Dame Talia.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo more than I.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Raist looked even more flushed. He bowed from his saddle, his face full of chagrin. Talia smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t fear, Ser Raist. I learned the very same lesson on my first campaign. And if there is anything to be taken from this tragedy\u2014and it is<\/em> one, a failure so deep it cuts me to the quick\u2014let it be lessons such as these. Let it be levels, that we might not fail a second time.\u201d<\/p>\n All nodded at that. One of the younger Spring Knights, emboldened by Talia\u2019s words, shot up and raised a fist into the air.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Raim of Summer was a finer [Knight] than many could dream of becoming. Ere we return, let us tell his story to those worthy of hearing it. Let his valor not fade into distant memory and be forgotten!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHold, Ser Eldein.\u201d<\/p>\n Lorell cautioned the young man as some of the other Spring Knights shouted agreement. The others looked at him. The [Summer Knight] looked unhappy as he shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cI fear that while we may speak of Belavierr to our brethren in the Order, we must keep silent elsewhere. The Stitch Witch draws power from rumor and fear. Those who know of her might well call on her services, make pacts with her in hopes of furthering their lives. Shameful as it must be, the lives of those who have fallen must fade from the memory of most.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein\u2019s face fell. Talia felt bad for him; he was new to his shield and practically bursting with youthful vigor. He touched the mace at his side, and his face was frustrated.<\/p>\n \u201cFor fourteen years, I have trained. Since the age of six! I gained my first level when I was but eight, through the hardest of labors. And I have attempted to improve my skill of arms each passing day since. I won my right to the Order of Spring! And while I know I am poor of levels and equipment, I would face a Demon-kind Giant or a Dragon if my Order called me. I volunteered to lay my life down that Ser Raim would end such an evil. And yet.\u201d<\/p>\n He turned around, meeting Talia\u2019s eyes for a second, and he looked at his companions. Ser Eldein pointed over his shoulder.<\/p>\n \u201cI beheld my mortal folly in the gaze of that thing<\/em>. She conjured an army in but a single night and though she burned and was killed dozens of times, death did not claim her. What is valor, what is honor<\/em> and courage before that? It is not fair.\u201d<\/p>\n No one could speak for a moment in the face of that. It was true. True, and yet\u2014Ser Lorell replied again, speaking from experience among the older members of the party.<\/p>\n \u201cLife, Ser Eldein, is not fair. Monsters beset the lands, even in Terandria, where our Order is strongest. They multiply in the darkness. And the hearts of men and women\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd other species.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia murmured, recalling her visit to Baleros, to Daquin. That had been a different sort of battle, but she wished she\u2019d stayed with Wil and fought the Iron Vanguard a hundred more times. Better that\u2014and she missed her brother. She was proud of him, of course! But she hadn\u2019t seen him for three years before that point. Her duties as a [Knight] kept her from home; the Order of Seasons was her new home.<\/p>\n Ser Lorell glanced at Talia, a bit annoyed by her comment. He went on, stiff.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2014fester and corrupt. Nations make war. Magic may cause death untold. In the face of it all, the world does seem bleak. But we stand in the face of it. You may well be a blade of grass in front of the scythe, Ser Eldein, and I but a single mote of light in the darkness. But together, we will challenge any foe. It is that or give in without battle. And that is not how I choose to live.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise leaned over her horse. A radiance seemed to bloom around her, even in the shadows of the treetops they were passing under. She was always lit by such light; Talia admired the effect, even if she thought Dame Chise used it too often.<\/p>\n \u201cRemember this day and grow from it. Do you think the Spring\u2019s Warden would falter before such a foe, even one as ancient as the Stitch Witch? Or Knight-Commander Calirn himself? I say to you, I have seen the greatest of our order and they blaze in life as much as Ser Raim did in his final moments. Belavierr escapes death this day, but this is not over. Remember this, Ser Eldein. Forge yourself anew from the memory of it.\u201d<\/p>\n Abashed, the young [Knight] nodded. Lorell clapped his hands together, startling his horse. He looked at the other [Knights], authority ringing in his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cLet\u2019s not speak more of this, brothers and sisters. We have far yet to travel! Ser Eldein, surely something of our current surroundings brings you joy?\u201d<\/p>\n The young man hesitated, but then he nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps the thought of more species joining our Order, Ser Lorell. Dame Talia, are you suggesting we recruit from beyond Terandria?\u201d<\/p>\n He relaxed, and some of the [Knights] around him laughed. They rode closer, losing the fugue that had engulfed them. Similarly, the [Knights] abandoned the elevated speech of their order that they adopted, becoming more casual in private.<\/p>\n Talia shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cI have often thought of it. Drakes and other species lack for [Knights] in large. Why shouldn\u2019t we recruit from them? Each species has their talents. Dame Ingrela, you were at Daquin with some of your fellow Knights of Spring. Didn\u2019t you admire the Iron Vanguard\u2019s resilience?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd cursed them. That was a hard-fought battle, for all it was meant to be practice. And I confess, other species have abilities we Humans lack. The Dullahans were especially tenacious.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Ingrela agreed. Across from her, Ser Thornst, a [Spring Knight], but a veteran one, looked amused.<\/p>\n \u201cDullahans? One might call every member of their species a [Knight], if not in training or virtue. The armor they wear is part of their bodies, is it not? They seem a mighty species.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise nodded grudgingly.<\/p>\n \u201cThey are that. I have fought them on the battlefield proper, and I say they are among the most resilient of species to face. I am told that once, they were considered natural enemies of Dragons. More so than even our orders. Each one wears armor, after all. They were born dragon slayers.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cEven so, they are a dour lot.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen make them [Winter Knights]! They surely fit in with our coldest Season. I\u2019ve a mind to make a bet who would smile listening to jokes first, one of the Knights of Winter, or\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n A few of the other [Knights] laughed, scandalized. Talia grinned hugely. Ser Lorell did not laugh, and turned to Talia.<\/p>\n \u201cWould you consent to having a Selphid in our ranks then, Dame Talia?\u201d<\/p>\n His appalled tone indicated his thoughts on the matter. Talia\u2019s chin rose. The Order of Seasons were all comrades in arms, but that didn\u2019t meant they always got along, and she\u2019d argued this with her companions many times before.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy not? What stops a Selphid from showing as much valor as any Human, Ser Lorell? Besides, it has happened thrice in our order\u2019s history. Once it ended in disgrace. Once in valor. And once, the Selphid, who was Ser Chalica, or Dame Chalica, the records do not indicate which, died in glorious battle holding the Order of Season\u2019s very gates when our enemies brought a vast army against us. Chalica of Spring, they were. And they held the gates until the bodies of their enemies piled up like logs before the axe.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOne incidence of treachery out of three is hardly reassuring. One in ten thousand of our Order ever compromises their honor.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell pointed out patiently. Talia tossed her head.<\/p>\n \u201cA faulty argument, Ser Lorell. If we had more Selphids, I truly doubt one in three would be false. Why not let them apply?\u201d<\/p>\n The man shrugged, annoyed by the strident tone in Talia\u2019s voice. He turned, addressing the younger [Knights].<\/p>\n \u201cEven so, the Order of Seasons takes in limited numbers each year. Do we then petition recruiters to travel to Izril, or Baleros or other locations? We already receive enough applicants from Terandria\u2014almost too many! Let us not crowd our ranks with any not deserving of the honor. Such incidents can be the end of a [Knight] order. Remember the lesson of the Crowlende Order.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia folded her arms, but didn\u2019t say anything more. By her side, Dame Chise leaned over and continued the conversation quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cYour fascination stems from the company your brother keeps, does it not, Lady Talia?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps! What of it? I\u2019m proud of Wil. He\u2019s proven there\u2019s more to be gained from other species than not! You know he won a question from the Titan of Baleros?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have heard you speak of it a few dozen times, Lady Talia.\u201d<\/p>\n The other [Knights] looked amused. Talia was either Dame Talia for her rank or Lady Talia for her heritage. Talia smiled, embarrassed.<\/p>\n \u201cEven so. I have not heard what Wil\u2019s question will be, but he has promised to make it one that favors the Kallinad household.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot the Order of Seasons? We committed over a hundred [Knights] to Daquin! That was not without cost!\u201d<\/p>\n Someone sounded scandalized. Talia shook her head.<\/p>\n \u201cAll the costs were paid by House Kallinad, Ser Welte. And Kallinad is<\/em> a generous supporter of the Order of Seasons. Moreover, we displayed our prowess in battle the world over, did we not? There are recordings of our own facing off against the Iron Vanguard! It was a victory!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA victory, aye. But sometimes I worry that our Order commits too broadly. We send lances of [Knights] out, but there was a time when we marched in legions!\u201d<\/p>\n A grizzled veteran [Summer Knight] spoke sourly. Dame Chise shook her head, pursing her lips.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd kept our own armies. That bears too closely to the foundation of a nation. Our Order has not made war on a nation ourselves in over twelve decades. We fight alongside nations of course, but challenging a kingdom for injustices is entirely different. I pray that function of our Order is never called upon. But recently\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n She trailed off. Ser Eldein spoke up, his cheeks flushed.<\/p>\n \u201cAilendamus is pursuing war. If they continue their wars of aggression, we may be well forced to choose a side. And I would argue this among any of our peers\u2014it is not in our interest to support a nation seeking to enlarge itself even further!\u201d<\/p>\n Talia coughed and shook her head. It didn\u2019t matter usually, but nationality did influence some of the [Knights] and it was a known fact that Ser Eldein hailed from Calanfer, which was historically opposed to Ailendamus.<\/p>\n \u201cNo arguments there, Ser Eldein, but that is not our place to discuss. Nor wise to utter aloud; we are sworn protectors of order, not political creatures.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Spring Knight] flushed and bowed in his saddle towards Talia.<\/p>\n \u201cMy apologies, Dame Talia.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps we would be best suited by action. We have a long way to go to First Landing and the harbor back. I am hesitant to race our horses, but if the road is clear, we shall force a quicker pace. Dame Talia, why not scout ahead with Ser Eldein and see if there are any travellers ahead we might disturb?\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell coughed. Talia shot him a glance, but then she ducked her head.<\/p>\n \u201cAs you say, Ser Lorell. Ser Eldein?\u201d<\/p>\n She urged her mare forwards and Ser Eldein followed her. They rode faster, breaking ahead of the trotting company. Talia waited until they were a good two hundred paces down the road, and then nodded at Ser Eldein it was okay to speak.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t believe Ser Lorell appreciates your views on other species, Dame Talia. I apologize if I have put Ser Lorell against you, and for my thoughtless words.\u201d<\/p>\n Eldein\u2019s face was a bit flushed. He was young, with a spray of dark hair, nearly black. He might have been a [Farmer]\u2019s son; he was definitely common-born, unlike Talia and Lorell. Talia smiled at him.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s a point of contention, Ser Eldein. Old arguments. I respect Ser Lorell\u2019s experience, of course. But we rarely work together; he and I were simply volunteers Knight-Commander Calirn chose to ride to Ser Raim\u2019s defense. Call me Talia, by all means, Eldein.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNaturally. And it is an honor to ride with you, Talia. Your rise through the Season of Spring is well known! In truth, you have just as much authority as Ser Lorell, at least, I and some of the others think so. Nobility aside; he cannot claim to have fought in a war! But you have!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJust minor ones. It\u2019s not an indication of leadership, Eldein.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia grinned, embarrassed, and Eldein tilted his head towards her.<\/p>\n \u201cEven so. Is age the only qualifier?\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman paused and shook her head.<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps, but I\u2019m hardly a prodigy. I was simply suited for the Season of Summer, and the Spring\u2019s Watcher knew it. No more; I\u2019m not about to challenge Ser Lorell\u2019s authority. He is a solid leader.\u201d<\/p>\n And we\u2019re not riding into battle.<\/em> Both [Knights] nodded silently. It wasn\u2019t nearly as bad as politics between, say, noble houses or kingdoms, but there was some inner maneuvering in the Order of Seasons. Never too bad; a rivalry between Seasons or a disagreement about\u2026qualification, or how another [Knight] conducted themselves. It wouldn\u2019t come to that with Talia and Ser Lorell. She just didn\u2019t like him that much.<\/p>\n The quick pace of the two [Knights] had led them out of the forest. Now, they saw a few travellers on the road, but nothing that would keep the Order of Seasons from a faster clip. Talia was just about to suggest they return back to Ser Lorell when Ser Eldein pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s a traveller. We might as well ask for news; we\u2019ve been starved since passing through the forests these last two days. And no one was in the mood for it earlier. Shall I?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf you\u2019d like. It would certainly distract the conversation. But remember, these are Izril folk, Eldein. Treat them with respect.\u201d<\/p>\n Eldein nodded. He rode forwards and waved a hand at another man on horseback.<\/p>\n \u201cHail, my good man, and thy harvests be blessed! Hast thou time spare to converse with knights-errant upon our ceaseless quests?\u201d<\/p>\n He glanced back at Talia. She covered her face.<\/p>\n \u201cDead gods, Ser Eldein\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n The traveller looked at Eldein as he drew up his horse. His jaw worked, and at last, he spoke.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019re you on about? Harvests? I\u2019m a [Shoemaker], not a [Farmer]!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA figure of speech, sir. Have you time to speak?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAbout harvests?\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein faltered. He was used to Terandria, where people were used to [Knights] and usually had some manner of respect for the class. The [Shoemaker] looked at Eldein, clearly worried that the [Spring Knight] was touched in the head.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, Sir Shoemaker. I\u2014we are simply hoping you could speak to us of any news.\u201d<\/p>\n The man\u2019s face cleared, and he took off his hat to wipe at his brow. The days were getting warmer; Talia could feel summer in the air.<\/p>\n \u201cOh. Why didn\u2019t you say so? You want to know what\u2019s happening? Well, monsters, that\u2019s what! Wait, are you going after them or haven\u2019t you heard?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia sat up straighter on her horse. Ser Eldein leaned forwards.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have been travelling the last eight-day. What\u2019s this about monsters, Sir Shoemaker?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy name\u2019s Belic. Not Sir\u2014eight-day? You mean, a week? Well, if you don\u2019t know\u2014there are Ogres about! I\u2019ve been trying to get back home south; I should have never come north, not with them about!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOgres?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia rode forwards. Belic turned to her, and she bowed.<\/p>\n \u201cMister Belic?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. Who are you lot?\u201d<\/p>\n Belic had caught sight of the group of [Knights] riding up the road. He goggled. It wasn\u2019t that<\/em> strange a sight in Terandria, but apparently nineteen [Knights] was in Izril. Talia nodded to the rest of the Order of Seasons.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are [Knights] from Terandria, sir. The Order of Seasons. What\u2019s this about Ogres? Ser Lorell!\u201d<\/p>\n She waved, and the older [Summer Knight] spurred his horse forwards. Belic blinked, already looking slightly overwhelmed. He stared at the colorful armor Talia and Lorell wore and then scratched at his balding head.<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014it\u2019s Ogres. Lots of \u2018em! You didn\u2019t hear? It\u2019s been the talk of the road all the way from\u2014have you been camping the entire way here?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia coughed.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2026travelled here quickly. There are Ogres attacking this area? A band of them?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMore than a band! A damn clan<\/em> came out of the hills! First it was just a single band, but more and more have been attacking. Lady Magnolia Reinhart has placed a bounty on their heads! Twelve for each head at first. But when the others came, she put it up to sixty three! There\u2019s a three thousand eight hundred coin bounty on the head of their leaders!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSizeable for Ogres.\u201d<\/p>\n Lorell murmured, his brows shooting up. Talia agreed, doing quick math.<\/p>\n \u201cOgres don\u2019t have high numbers, but even a hundred would be a tidy sum. Have there been that many?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDozens in each group. And yes, Miss Knight, there\u2019ve been plenty of adventurers. But you know Ogres\u2014they\u2019re huge! Most of the Silver-ranks buggered off when they heard how many there were, so the Gold-ranks came for the money. Three groups have been driven off, but the last two forced a Gold-rank team, the Dividenblades, to retreat with a casualty! And killed dozens in a pitched battle with Silver-ranks and a militia outside the city of Phaust!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThis is more than just a lone raid, Ser Lorell.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia looked at the [Summer Knight]. He was nodding.<\/p>\n \u201cSir Belic, how dire is the situation? Is anyone doing anything to root out this threat?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Shoemaker] frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cAside from the adventurers? They\u2019ve pushed back the worst of it and all the outlying villages and such are either barricaded up or empty. Them Ogres only attacked outlying areas. They\u2019re close to Ulta lands. I reckon if they get closer to Invrisil, Lady Reinhart\u2019ll up the bounty or have them all assassinated.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein looked shocked.<\/p>\n \u201cBut no one is pursuing the monsters?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0Belic gave him a sideways glance.<\/p>\n \u201cThey\u2019ll get got soon. Or get lost.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut they should be hunted down at once! Ser Lorell, if this was Terandria, a dozen knighthood orders would be dispatching their own to deal with these monsters at once!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIzril is different, Ser Eldein. The local nobility protect their lands. And adventurers take on the duties of [Knights]. Which means their safety is weighed against the coin they earn.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise frowned disapprovingly. Belic gave her an odd look.<\/p>\n \u201cIt works well enough, Miss Knight. Aside from idiots on the road and the first victims, not many folk are dying. It\u2019s locking down some parts, but a Gold-rank team will finish the job.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOr perhaps we will.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia murmured. She looked up and met Ser Lorell\u2019s eyes. He hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have instructions to return to the headquarters, Dame Talia.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein protested.<\/p>\n \u201cSurely the Order of Seasons does not ignore monsters wherever they may be!\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cWe do not. But we are ill-equipped for a battle with an entire clan, Ser Eldein. We wear steel; due to the ritual, we were only able to bring\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n He eyed Belic. The [Shoemaker] helpfully shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Gold-ranks seem to be doing a good job. If you want to find the Ogres, anyone\u2019d be able to tell you where the dangerous spots are. Myself, I\u2019m going far away. Good to see you [Knights]. Means the road\u2019s probably clear. Good day to you!\u201d<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons watched him ride off. Then they congregated, arguing fiercely.<\/p>\n \u201cA delay to hunt monsters is almost foolhardy, Dame Talia\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf but a single innocent dies, Ser Lorell? Is it not our duty to at least inquire if they\u2019re being hunted?\u201d<\/p>\n He exhaled, but couldn\u2019t argue with that. Lorell turned to Talia\u2019s left.<\/p>\n \u201cDame Chise, your thoughts?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe could alter our path. Let us ask if these Ogres are still a threat at large. If they are, we bear towards them. If not, we continue. Either way, we still lose little more than a few days.\u201d<\/p>\n Lorell nodded. So it was agreed. The [Knights] began riding faster. The next traveller they came across didn\u2019t know about where the Ogres were, but he could point them towards Ulta lands. Talia frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cUlta. Some noble [Lady] rules them?\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cThey\u2019re but a day\u2019s ride away. We could reach the outermost edge and inquire further.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe shall, then. Dame Chise, will you aid our speed?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCertainly. [First to Battle]!\u201d<\/p>\n The [Summer Knight] raised her morning star. And the company of [Knights] accelerated down the road. They might have been slow on their return home, but with a purpose in mind, they moved faster.<\/em> It was just a rumor for now; the Ogres might have been dealt with. But Talia rode at the head of the company next to Eldein, urging her horse to move faster.<\/p>\n Even if there was a chance, the Order of Seasons would investigate. If they could save a life by effort, none would be spared.<\/p>\n That was what it meant to be a [Knight].<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The first town the [Knights] came to by the time lanterns were lit and they had to slow to avoid accident on the road was fairly prosperous. The company rode in fast, looking for a tavern or inn to get the newest information. Their horses were tired, but the Spring Knights would rub them down and mix a bit of stamina potion into their feed.<\/p>\n As they headed towards the largest tavern, Ser Lorell in the lead, the [Knights] cut off a [Farmer] in their hurry to reach the stables. The man riding the wagon took offense to the group of [Riders].<\/p>\n \u201cOi.<\/em> Mind yourself, you idiots! I\u2019m riding here!\u201d<\/p>\n He roared at the [Knights]. Talia was impressed; it took guts to shout at a group of nearly twenty armed people, even if he\u2019d spotted the crests that marked them as [Knights] in the darkness.<\/p>\n Affronted, Ser Lorell pulled up and inclined his head.<\/p>\n \u201cOur apologies, sir. But we are [Knights], investigating word of Ogres\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you think that gives you the right to cut me off? Out of the way!\u201d<\/p>\n The enraged man waved a fist at Ser Lorell. Caught off-guard, the [Summer Knight] hesitated, and then moved his horse out of the way. The Order of Seasons parted, and the [Farmer] rolled past them. They stared at him as he glared.<\/p>\n \u201cNext time, obey the rules of the road! Idiots.\u201d<\/p>\n He disappeared down the street. Talia bit her lip, glancing at Ser Lorell\u2019s slack face. That had been an odd experience! Dame Chise was the first to speak.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is the domain of House Ulta, a noble family. And these are the lands of Lady Pryde. It seems her people are equally\u2026spirited.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo it seems.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell shook himself. Then he briskly dismounted. Talia followed suit. Soon, all but six of the [Spring Knights] were walking into the tavern. They had a more amicable greeting this time.<\/p>\n \u201cMy word! So many [Knights]? What can I do for you, ladies, gentlemen? My name is Keima. Will you be wanting food? Rooms for the night?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood evening, good mistress. A repast would be welcome. But any information about this Ogre scourge is what we seek. How dire are the attacks? Do you know their location or if anything is being done to stop them?\u201d<\/p>\n Miss Keima frowned as she had tables dragged together for the [Knights].<\/p>\n \u201cThe Ogres? A horrible mess. Lady Pryde will sort them out, I\u2019ve no doubt. But there\u2019s a few big groups left. All northeast of us, thank goodness. Three days ride. Will you be having that food?\u201d<\/p>\n Lorell looked at Talia and Chise and nodded. That was much too far even if they\u2019d been minded to push. The [Knights] began sitting down. Miss Keima was a friendly woman, and her husband got to work at once preparing a meal for so many. The [Tavern Owner] began talking with her guests and the odd incident with the [Farmer] outside came up as a matter of course.<\/p>\n \u201cThat would be Mister Chalt, [Knights]. He\u2019s an odd sort. Keeps to himself, but he comes into market time to time. He lacks manners, but there was no ill will in it!\u201d<\/p>\n Keima assured Ser Lorell. The [Knight] paused.<\/p>\n \u201cHe was particularly insistent on his way, though, Miss Keima.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShouldn\u2019t he be? He had the right of way. And he insisted on that. It\u2019s a matter of dignity.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHm. Even so\u2014I\u2019ve been told this is land owned by House Ulta. And the ruling [Lady] is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLady Pryde. We\u2019re all her subjects. People of Pryde. Which means people of pride,<\/em> Mister Lorell. Be it [Farmer] or [Shepherd], we won\u2019t give up the right of way so easily. I daresay Chalt would have if you\u2019d been in a hurry, but not to stable your horses!\u201d<\/p>\n The glint in Miss Keima\u2019s eyes made Talia love her in an instant. Lorell looked embarrassed. He coughed.<\/p>\n \u201cPeople of Pride?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. Pride rules in Ulta lands. Pride in what you do and who you are. Chalt, now, he\u2019s a good example of that. Respected! More than most [Merchants] or rich folk without a lick of dignity; I daresay he could have married well if he wasn\u2019t such a recluse.\u201d<\/p>\n Raist looked mystified as he took a drink of water.<\/p>\n \u201cBut he has pride in being\u2026alone? In being insistent on his right to the road? In being a [Farmer]?\u201d<\/p>\n Some intriguing smells were wafting from the kitchen. Mistress Keima gave the [Knight] an odd look in reply.<\/p>\n \u201cPride takes many forms, sirs and madams. It need not be on display. Lady Pryde only asks us to do what fulfills us. Not to live hollow lives. For instance, my boy is aiming to be an adventurer. I wouldn\u2019t dare<\/em> stop him. I\u2019d be too ashamed to look anyone in the eye! But I am a mother.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd adventuring is a dangerous life. Risky. You won\u2019t stop your son from trying?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia replied. Miss Keima nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cOf course not! If I did, who would he be?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knights] glanced at each other. Chise cleared her throat.<\/p>\n \u201cBut Miss Keima, what if your son fails? Say he wished to be a [Merchant] but had not the class or any capital. Would you let him pursue that ambition?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOf course! Better to do what he wants than not try. If he fails, he\u2019ll pick himself up and try again. If he doesn\u2019t, then he was never meant to be an adventurer to begin with. Oh, I think your food\u2019s ready. I won\u2019t be a moment!\u201d<\/p>\n Miss Keima smiled and disappeared into the kitchen. Raist raised his eyebrows as he looked around the table.<\/p>\n \u201cSeems this entire region acts as their [Lady] does. Ambition and pride over caution and humility.\u201d<\/p>\n The other [Knights] shushed him, but many clearly agreed. Talia liked the idea. She\u2019d heard [Ladies] and [Lords] could shape their domains after them, but Terandrian nobility were still subjects of their monarchs, however powerful. Izril however, had no royalty.<\/p>\n Except for the [Emperor]. Talia wished she could have met him. But then she was distracted by the meal.<\/p>\n \u201cI have enough for everyone and seconds waiting! No, I can take it out myself, and my [Barmaids]! That\u2019s what we get paid for!\u201d<\/p>\n Miss Keim<\/p>\n a scolded the [Knights] trying to rise and take the dishes. She placed them down with flourishes, beaming. Talia looked at the food, her stomach rumbling. Then she paused.<\/p>\n \u201cAll of it\u2019s from our stocks! The salt\u2019s from the Ulta salt mines\u2014the finest in Izril! Pure salt, lovely brines\u2014my husband\u2019s personal recipe. Enjoy!\u201d<\/p>\n The [Tavern Owner]\u2019s cheerful voice hovered in the air. The Terandrian [Knight] stared down at their repast. It was\u2026pickled eggs. Salted pork. Beets\u2014yes, pickled. Some filling dumplings, also made with what seemed to be primarily preserved foods. And pickles. Pickled walnuts, which had turned black<\/em> from the brine, served on blue cheese\u2014<\/p>\n Salt. Talia looked up, trying to smile. She came from a coastal duchy, but she was used to seafood. Not pickled foods. And indeed, most of the Terandrians weren\u2019t used to so much\u2026pickling. The abundance of magic meant that you could get fresh food; pickles were nice, but pickled foods were an acquired taste.<\/p>\n The only thing that was there to cut the salt was some goat\u2019s milk and fruits. And bread. The Order of Seasons stared at the meal with no small measure of chagrin. They exchanged covert looks, chivalry fighting with taste buds.<\/p>\n The [Tavern Owner] beamed, gesturing at the spread.<\/p>\n \u201cAll favorites among the Ulta region! You won\u2019t get better anywhere in the town. And if I might add, good [Knights]? You\u2019ll want to stock up on salt if you\u2019ve a mind to be passing south or east of here. There\u2019s a trade war on, and Lady Pryde\u2019s stated there will be no trade in those directions until proper apology is made.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA trade war?\u201d<\/p>\n Lorell murmured, prodding at a huge pickle. Raist was ordering more alcohol. Miss Keima nodded. She frowned darkly.<\/p>\n \u201cThey insulted Lady Pryde! Gave her a black rose.<\/em> As if she hadn\u2019t fought the Goblin King at First Landing! Well, they\u2019ll pay for that. All of them! No salt is going to Reicch, or anywhere north of Veltaim. Unless they\u2019ve got preservation runes, we\u2019ll see how long their stores last without salt!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey could always smoke\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Talia kicked Ser Eldein under the table. She gulped as Miss Keima retreated to get some more drinks for the table. She looked up and met Ser Lorell\u2019s eyes. He was in agreement with her in this, at least. But all the [Knight] did was slowly pick up a cup.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2019Twould be rude to demand a different repast. This is their food.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPride.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia agreed glumly. The Order of Seasons braced themselves. Ser Eldein sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cPride and salt.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Fifteen minutes later, Ser Eldein put down his fork and regarded the empty plates. He turned and, with supreme force of will, smiled at the hovering [Tavern Owner].<\/p>\n \u201cA truly filling repast, Mistress Keima.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDo you need seconds?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n The chorus came from the entire table. The [Knights] were full, Talia included, but at what cost? To distract the generous Miss Keima and her [Brine Cook] husband, they began asking questions about the Ogres.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, Lady Pryde won\u2019t let them attack anyone on her lands. I\u2019ve heard she\u2019s setting off after one war band, but there\u2019s two big ones left. The first is led by their leader, very large, over fifty in total. The second\u2019s smaller, but no less dangerous. Thirty-odd Ogres.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThirty? We number nineteen. It shouldn\u2019t be too dangerous a battle.\u201d<\/p>\n Ingrela mused out loud. Ser Lorell frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cOgres are strong, Dame Ingrela. Not as thick-skinned as Trolls, but more numerous. What separates them from half-Giants?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTheir breath?\u201d<\/p>\n That came from Talia. A few chuckles and a glare from Lorell followed. He began a lecture; he was well-studied, at least. Talia reflected that it was Lorell\u2019s specialty; he had a position training many [Knights] in their Season as a mentor. Like her, he hadn\u2019t flinched from a real battle, but he could get\u2026teacherly at times. And she was no student. The Knights of the Spring listened closely, though.<\/p>\n \u201cTrolls are more squat. Tougher, sometimes magical. Ogres are humanoid, albeit monstrous. More intelligent than Trolls. Far, far less civilized than half-Giants, who are but people overgrown. Ogres can be reasoned with and they use tools, or so I have heard from Autumn Knights. But then, even Goblins and Trolls can communicate.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFew can. These are clearly monsters.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise\u2019s comments were met by nods all around. Ser Eldein just looked confused.<\/p>\n \u201cReason with Goblins? With a Troll? Why would one ever do that?\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Thornst clicked his tongue reprovingly.<\/p>\n \u201cDiplomacy is the other edge of the sword we wield, Ser Eldein. Seldom on monsters. But if you ever meet a Dragon, you would be wise to try words first. Not all are evil.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDragons, yes, but Ogres?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI do not believe we will be negotiating with these ones. Not after what they\u2019ve done. Ser Lorell?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia\u2019s voice made the other [Knight] look up. Ser Lorell nodded calmly.<\/p>\n \u201cWith Dame Chise\u2019s Skill, we may reach them in two days. Perhaps more. Perhaps less. When we do, if they are not dealt with, we will hunt them down ourselves.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA worthy task!\u201d<\/p>\n Miss Keima had come back. She clapped her hands and nodded approvingly. There was something regal in the way she treated the [Knights]; pride again. But she looked at Talia warningly.<\/p>\n \u201cA word of caution though, Ser and Lady [Knights]. The Ogres are thirty, but I\u2019ve heard they had Goblins too. You might be fighting a lot more.\u201d<\/p>\n She saw a few smiles on the faces of the Order of Seasons. Ser Eldein coughed.<\/p>\n \u201cMiss Keima, your concern does you credit. But we can handle a few Goblins. How many are there? Three dozen? Fifty? If there are any Hobs, we will consider them on rank with the Ogres, but the Ogres are the true threat.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cStrong foes. If we were less in number or under leveled I would hesitate at the fight. Even so, we will be cautious. How many Goblins do you think there are, Miss Keima?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Tavern Owner] shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat I heard was that the Ogre clan had a Goblin tribe. The second war band is thirty Ogres, but who counts Goblins? There were a lot, or so the rumors claimed. You might be fighting sixty. Or hundreds.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n That night, the Order of Seasons slept. They rose with dawn and departed. They moved quickly, following reports of attacks, riding down the road faster than all but Runners and the swiftest horses. But the grim truth was that they were too slow. They had been too slow to save every victim. Before they had come to Izril, the Ogres had struck. And they would strike again before the [Knights] reached them. But that was a reality even the most chivalrous [Knight] had to accept, if not make peace with. Monsters were everywhere.<\/p>\n Usually, and in big cities, they were a distant thing. But to those who lived closer to the wilderness, monsters were a fact of life, like [Bandits], a natural disaster, a wolf attack. Usually they were sporadic unless you lived truly close to a dangerous location. And sometimes, the monsters overflowed and came out. And they tore the illusion of peace to shreds.<\/p>\n That night, they came out of the hills like thunder. Fifty seven strong, racing down on the villages closest to the hills first, and then taking roads, attacking travellers, anything that caught their eye or fancy.<\/p>\n Ogres. A species everyone had heard of, but few had actually seen. They were not the fiercest species around, or possessed of the worst attributes to battle against. But they were imposing. And there were many of them. They raced down the slopes, roaring, armed with steel and pilfered weapons.<\/p>\n Any traveller idiotic enough to be on the roads ran, hearing the terrible bellows. But they were too slow. The Ogres descended, catching horses, tearing into houses and smashing wood and stone with crushing blows from their clubs and fists.<\/p>\n The smallest was over six feet in height. The largest nearly ten. And they were not thin either; they were heavyset, their fat overlaying muscle. Each one would have been equal of Moore. Or larger. But if half-Giants, or rather, quarter-Giants were what Gnolls were, capable of leveling and classes, Ogres were then Raskghar.<\/p>\n The few [Warriors] and people with levels trying to fight them off found they were outmatched. A single Ogre was equal to a Silver-rank adventurer, and short of a powerful bowshot to the head, their skin and the armor they wore made arrows barely more than a nuisance. They had the strength and endurance of monsters, but they fought like men. And they moved fast!<\/em><\/p>\n The Ogres struck like lightning, ravaging a village of Lanchestret, which had been forewarned of their attack. They found few victims; the villagers had already fled. A few, a foolhardy hermit, an elderly couple, died in their homes. A pair of travellers on the road met the same fate. The Ogres would have tormented them, but their leader\u2019s snarls and bellowed orders kept them moving. They grabbed all of value, food, animals, and raced back towards the foothills, the Eldessale Foothills, to be precise, where their clan was located.<\/p>\n The foothills alone stretched nearly five hundred miles, not in one stretch, but creating a separation between the eastern coast and the upper-central eastern area of Izril. They had not been widely settled owing to the much easier lowlands. So the Ogres had grown in the hills, adjacent to civilization. There had been incidents before. A single Ogre. A band. Adventurers had removed the threat or the Ogre had vanished. They were one monster among many. Now though, they raided.<\/p>\n The first war band was led by a giant among their kind. A Chief, who wielded a magical hammer stained with blood. He urged his followers to pillage as much as they could. He was furious; the Humans had fought back, killing other groups of his clan. His personal group was one of two remaining.<\/p>\n The second was from a small Ogre clan. They were only thirty in number, but they had Goblins, a tribe they\u2019d enslaved. The Ogre Chief might have considered warring with them, but the Humans were easier targets. So he pillaged. He wanted women, magic, and weapons in that order!<\/p>\n But he was smart enough to know that venturing too far from the foothills might mean death. Thus far the Chief had kept his war band away from more populated Human lands. But this village had been as empty as the last three! Food wasn\u2019t all his clan craved, so, impatient, the Chief ordered his tribe to move north. Towards richer lands. They crossed into the Ulta region.<\/p>\n On the second night, the Ogres hit a farmstead, and then a village. They tore into the place, and the Humans who hadn\u2019t fled died\u2014or wished they had. The Ogres laughed as they retreated towards their hills, taking spoils with them. They weren\u2019t about to stop; emboldened, the Chief was determined to take as much back with him to make up for his losses. He knew the other Ogre group, his rivals, were doing the same, so he and his warriors were already looping back for another raid that night.<\/p>\n On the third day, the first band met Pryde.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The Ogres were eating a [Merchant] and her [Guards] on the road as the sun rose. The foolish female [Merchant] had taken the risk of the road, judging her escort strong enough to deter the Ogres. They hadn\u2019t been. And she had cut her throat as the Ogres crushed the low-leveled Humans into paste.<\/p>\n That annoyed the war Chief. Two of the [Guards] had been female too, but his warriors had crushed their bodies in their bloodlust. He kicked the corpse of the [Merchant] and snarled.<\/p>\n \u201cOpen boxes!\u201d<\/p>\n His warriors looked up from the horses they were eating fresh. A pair smashed the contents of the wagons. The Chief stared down at the boxes of rich spices and snarled. He kicked one over.<\/p>\n \u201cMagic!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He didn\u2019t want spice! Part of him knew that the females would make better food out of it, but the Chief wanted a new magical item. He had his hammer, but it wasn\u2019t as good as the other Chief\u2019s club! The other Ogres ducked out of range as the Chief swung his fists angrily, looking for something to hit.<\/p>\n Then they heard the horns. The Ogres jerked up, staring at the sky. A warbling blast echoed from the west. And then the south. They looked at their Chief. He stared upwards and bared his teeth.<\/p>\n \u201cHumans.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n They were coming. Last time it had been Gold-ranks. Tough to kill, but with precious magic. This time it sounded like many<\/em>. The Chief hesitated. He wasn\u2019t about to bother fighting an army.<\/p>\n \u201cGo! Go!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He snarled, and the Ogres grabbed what they could carry. They were retreating to the hills. They\u2019d fall on the Humans if they had a moment, disappear otherwise. They weren\u2019t stupid<\/em>.<\/p>\n But then, neither were the Humans. No sooner had the Ogres began to lope across the ground, fast as any horse, than they heard horns to the east, cutting them off. They instantly switched north. And the horns blew a fourth time.<\/p>\n The Chief halted, breathing hard, looking around him. Each side? How many were<\/em> there? His mind told him not that many; so many Humans were easy to spot. There was a trick! But which horns were the real ones?<\/p>\n \u201cThat way!\u201d<\/p>\n He roared, pointing northwest. Away from the foothills. The Ogres followed him, fifty six streaming after their leader. They were more than a match for an army three times their size. Even the adventurers had fled them! They raced forwards\u2014<\/p>\n And met Lady Pryde\u2019s army. Over a hundred Humans marched behind their [Lady]. They roared as the Ogres stopped, and the [Scouts] deploying false horns stopped blowing. They had coerced the Ogre Chief, tricking him with Skills. Now, the army spread out. The Ogre Chief\u2019s eyes widened incredulously.<\/p>\n Only a hundred? His lips moved as he counted and he looked over his shoulder. But this was it. Barely a hundred Humans against his sixty! He snarled with fury at how they\u2019d underestimated them\u2014but then he brightened.<\/p>\n There were females<\/em> among the Humans. He could see them beneath their helmets. And even better\u2014his eyes alighted on a woman wearing no armor but a pale yellow-and-lilac dress. He stared at her flawless skin, and his groin itched.<\/p>\n \u201cHer. Take that one. Alive! Or I smash your heads!\u201d<\/p>\n He pointed. The other Ogres needed no encouragement. They grinned, advancing. The Humans deployed, spreading out. They had an odd formation; they were fighting along the road, next to some rocky ground that would favor them, but rather than retreat, they\u2019d formed an enveloping position. Half stayed back, and the Chief saw they were armed with longbows. Dangerous, but that left barely fifty Humans to stop more Ogres!<\/p>\n \u201cOgres! Lay down your arms! If you do, Lady Pryde Ulta guarantees your deaths will be swift! Flee and we will cut you down! You have trespassed on Ulta land and your fate is sealed!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n A voice bellowed at the oncoming war band. A man wearing a bright helmet with a feather was armed with javelins and standing behind a pair of Humans with shields. The [Lady] was hanging back, staring fearlessly at the Ogres. The Chief stared at her, resisting the urge to rub his crotch. He laughed and pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cKill them. Take the females!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Ogres charged. They needed no great speeches. The Humans had clearly wanted one, though. They were off-guard for a moment. The man with the feather rode back.<\/p>\n \u201c[Archers]! Focus your targets! [Shieldwall Warriors], brace!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Ogres came at them. They covered the hundreds of feet in moments, racing forwards. The [Archers] had only one chance to loose. They did.<\/p>\n The Chief raised a hand, blocking the arrows aimed at his face. He roared as he felt hot flashes of pain across his body, piercing the crude mail he wore. He turned his head, seeing two Ogres fall. The big bows hurt! It was but<\/em> two. Far too many, but they were closing.<\/p>\n The man with the feather was raising one of the javelins. Aiming at the Ogres. Forewarned, the Chief ducked behind one of the foremost Ogres and saw the Human shout.<\/p>\n \u201c[Twister Spear]!\u201d<\/p>\n The javelin flew<\/em>. It spiraled with such force and speed that the Ogre in front of the Chief had no time to dodge. The metal tip of the javelin tore into his chest, and the rotation splintered bone and flesh. The Chief swore as the Ogre fell, dead.<\/p>\n \u201cThat one!\u201d<\/p>\n He roared, pointing at the Human with the javelins. He surged forwards. The Human was reaching for another javelin. He threw and another Ogre fell. But then the Ogres were on the first line of Humans. And it was all\u2014<\/p>\n The first Ogre hit the Humans with the oversized tower shields. The club struck at the braced Human and rebounded with a gong<\/em> of sound. The Ogre stopped, startled, and the Human backed up. She\u2014a large woman whose face was set and grim behind her helmet\u2014backed up, forming a line with her comrades. The [Archers] loosed, hitting the Ogre in the chest. His friends charged past the Ogre. They hit the shields, but their weapons didn\u2019t sweep aside the smaller Humans.<\/p>\n It was like hitting rocks!<\/em> The charge of the Ogres stopped as the shield-bearing Humans stopped them cold! And the arrows singing from the back ranks were tearing into the Ogres. They battered the Humans, but it was an even match. And the Humans had ranged weapons pelting the Ogre clan.<\/p>\n The Chief roared his fury. He shoved one of the warriors in front of him back, feeling more arrows scoring his arms. He raised his hammer and brought it down<\/em> on the [Shieldwall Warrior] in front of him. The man raised his shield, whispering a Skill.<\/p>\n \u201c[Fortified Block]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The hammer struck the metal with a crash<\/em>. A bloom of black magic cascaded outwards from the Chief\u2019s hammer. Death magic, striking the Humans and Ogres around them. The Ogres backed up and the Humans groaned<\/em>. The Chief grinned, delighting in his special weapon. But the Human hadn\u2019t fallen. His Skill had blocked even the Chief\u2019s strike. His knees shook, though. He tried to back up, but the Chief, enraged, kicked<\/em> past the shield.<\/p>\n There was no second Skill to save the man. He went tumbling backwards, and the hammer fell a second time. The Chief felt the crunch<\/em> and swung the hammer sideways. Another Human died as the hammer screamed and emitted a burst of blackness. The Chief fought past the front line, and the Ogres poured after him.<\/p>\n \u201cReposition! [Swift Redeployment]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The man with the feather shouted desperately. The Humans abandoned their position, retreating, blocking most of the Ogres and reforming a line. But the breach around the Chief was widening. The huge Ogre swung his hammer and pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cThem! Them!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He wanted the leader and the archers. And the woman.<\/em> They were unguarded. He surged forwards. The [Lady] watched him as the man with the feathered helmet snarled, throwing another javelin that took an Ogre down. But the Chief came on.<\/p>\n \u201cMilady Ulta, let me\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. Stand down, Beshard. [Archers], kill the other Ogres.\u201d<\/p>\n Lady Pryde Ulta raised one hand. She dismounted from her horse and strode forwards. The Chief stared as she met him, the [Archers] harrying the Ogres around him. Then his lips twisted into a savage grin.<\/p>\n \u201cHuman. Female.<\/em> I like you.\u201d<\/p>\n He loomed over her, ignoring the fighting around him, the screaming Humans and Ogres. He expected the [Lady] to run and shriek. But she stared up at him without fear, only contempt.<\/p>\n Lady Pryde Ulta was a tall woman, and her hair was black. Her cheekbones were high, her posture as imperious as her voice. She pointed up at the Chief, and her voice snapped across the battlefield.<\/p>\n \u201cOgre. For what you\u2019ve done to my lands, you deserve death. Do your species a credit and die without a fuss!\u201d<\/p>\n He stared at her. Pryde\u2019s chin was tilted. She stared up at him. The Ogre Chief blinked. And then he laughed savagely. He struck his chest, watching her and the man with the feathered helmet behind her.<\/p>\n \u201cI am leader of my clan! Strong. And you\u2014you are mine. This<\/em> is mine! We\u2014we\u2019ll eat your men and take you. I\u2019ll have you and fuck you until you break. Unless you make me happy. Then I\u2019ll keep you.\u201d<\/p>\n Evil. <\/em>The words echoed, and the Humans who heard it shuddered with fury. Some of the [Archers] raised their bows, but the Ogres were advancing, and only the desperate fighting kept them back. Lady Pryde\u2019s eyes narrowed. She looked up at the Chief and shook her head slightly. And still, she did not run or look to the other Humans for aid.<\/p>\n \u201cBeast, you would not survive a minute with me, let alone a night. Amusing as it would be to conquer your puny tribe and turn them into vassals, you<\/em> are far too unsightly for a consort.\u201d<\/p>\n The Chief had not expected that. He flushed with rage. Then he grabbed for the [Lady] with his free hand. His hand shot to her chest\u2014then jerked down.<\/em><\/p>\n Something grabbed the Ogre! Something invisible! Around the woman, the grass turned flat, crushed by the same pressure that was pulling the Ogre down. He stumbled, roared.<\/p>\n Weight. Gravity.<\/em> Pryde raised her hand.<\/p>\n \u201c[Pride is Weight].\u201d<\/p>\n The force crushed<\/em> the Chief down. It would have killed most Humans; and the weight was more intense the closer he got to Pryde. But he was an Ogre! The monster roared, lifting an arm. Furious now, he raised his hammer. He forgot about his lust and swung with all his might.<\/p>\n Death!<\/em> The hammer fell downwards. The Humans cried out, and the man with the feathered helm turned. But Beshard was too slow. The Chieftain hit Pryde with a blow that shook the earth. He saw black magic blast outwards and raised his hammer. Instantly, he regretted turning her to paste. The Ogre straightened, feeling the pressure of gravity leave him\u2014<\/p>\n And Pryde was standing right there. The Ogre Chief stared. Lady Pryde Ulta stared down at her dress, annoyed. The fabric had torn across her chest, as had her undergarments. The Ogre saw a flash of pale skin. She eyed her exposed chest, then looked up at the Ogre. She put her hands on her hips and smiled mockingly.<\/p>\n \u201cToo much woman to handle, Ogre?\u201d<\/p>\n He gaped. Then he looked at his hammer. Beshard pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cTake the Chieftain down! [Archers]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Arrows flew. Now they stung the Chief. He stumbled back, feeling the heavy impacts in his chest. Snarling, he grabbed a healing potion and mashed it in his mouth, swallowing liquid and glass. The wounds healed, but the Chief realized too late that his Ogres were falling. He had to kill the lady and the archers! But there she stood. She had taken a blow from his hammer. How?<\/p>\n The Chief raised his hammer. This time he swung with every fiber of his being. The roar that left his lips made the Ogres look up. They saw their Chieftain strike Lady Pryde. The impact and death magic made the world shake<\/em>. But when the dust cleared, there she stood.<\/p>\n \u201cHow?\u201d<\/p>\n The Ogre Chief stared. Pryde smiled archly.<\/p>\n \u201c[Pride is Unbreakable]. You made a mistake coming here, beast. Die quickly.\u201d<\/p>\n She raised a hand as the Ogre Chief swore at her and swung. The Ogres of his clan saw her raise a hand and block<\/em> the hammer a third time. And their morale broke. Beshard threw his javelin as the Ogre Chief stared at Pryde.<\/p>\n The cast did not kill the huge Ogre. Nor did the next twenty arrows. But the second javelin, the hail of arrows that struck the Chief and the fleeing Ogres did. The Chief died on the ground. He tried to raise his hammer, but all he could do was stare at Pryde. She stood over him, her dress ruined, but her skin still flawless. She looked down at him.<\/p>\n \u201cYou were not worthy of one Skill, Ogre.\u201d<\/p>\n He tried to reply. But there was really nothing left to say. The Ogre died, his mouth pooling with blood. Lady Pryde looked down at him.<\/p>\n The road was filled with Ogre bodies. Some Human, but aside from a few points where Ogres had broken through, the line had held. There were a dozen dead, twice as many wounded, some with shattered bones. But the Humans had routed the Ogres. And the last of them died, brought down a hundred paces from the longbows. Lady Pryde listened as her soldiers issued a huge cheer.<\/p>\n \u201cLady Pryde! Are you wounded?\u201d<\/p>\n Beshard strode over to his [Lady]. The [Javelineer] and Master of Arms of the Ulta household looked at Pryde. She blinked down at him, and some of the intensity<\/em> about her faded. Pryde nodded. Then she glanced down at her body. Her dress was ripped across the bodice, down the navel. Exposing, well\u2026everything. The look of haughty contempt faded from the woman\u2019s face, and she flushed.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, I\u2019m exposed. Beshard\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy cloak, milady.\u201d<\/p>\n The man instantly unfastened his cloth, and Pryde seized the garment. She hid behind it.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you, Beshard. Are the soldiers well? The injured?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTwelve dead, Lady Pryde. The rest have been healed and bones set for a [Healer]. We have won a grand victory! The Ogres are dead!\u201d<\/p>\n The words stirred a cheer from the [Soldiers]. But Lady Pryde only looked dismayed.<\/p>\n \u201cTwelve dead? Too many! Oh, Beshard. Should I have taken twice as many soldiers?\u201d<\/p>\n Her voice was hesitant, guilty. Far from the imperiousness of before. But Beshard knew his [Lady], and his tone was soothing.<\/p>\n \u201cNot at all, Lady Pryde. They would have fled a larger force. And Ogres are a fearsome threat. This is a grand victory; their spine has been broken! Should we pursue the second force, they will be all but crushed! But let us return and mend wounds for today.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, of course. Your judgment is sound, Beshard. And allow me to convey my thanks to the brave souls who fought here today.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Lady] inclined her head. Humbly. It was so uncharacteristic that some of the soldiers stared at Pryde. But the ones who knew the [Lady] and her abilities shook their heads.<\/p>\n The dead were seen to and the Ogre bodies left for later. They might become undead, but another group would see to their disposal. Lady Pryde had more important things to do than oversee a cremation. And indeed, her company rode back down the road in high spirits. Pryde was smiling, but she seemed smaller in her skin.<\/p>\n For a moment. But the [Soldiers] riding with Beshard began chanting her name.<\/p>\n \u201cPryde! Pryde!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe [Lady] of Ulta! Pryde has slain the Ogres!\u201d<\/p>\n They were returning down the road. And soon, they came across more travellers. They had scarcely missed the warriors marching down the road, and they let up a cheer when they heard the Ogres had been killed! Pryde flushed at first, sitting on her horse\u2019s back with the cloak preserving her modesty. But that was temporary.<\/p>\n [Pride is Unbreakable]. And too, [Pride is Weight]. Lady Pryde embodied her namesake. She was a close friend of Magnolia Reinhart, but Pryde was no one\u2019s inferior. And soon, the cheers stopped flushing her cheeks. Pryde\u2019s back began to straighten, and the reservoir of ego she had spent in battle returned.<\/p>\n By the time the company was riding down the road leading to Ultase, the largest city of the Ulta lands founded by Pryde\u2019s ancestors, the woman was riding at the head of her group. Her cloak was tossed back, her chin raised. She raised a hand, waving at the cheering crowds following her company. Her [Soldiers] still shouted her name, rejoicing at their [Lady]\u2019s return to normality.<\/p>\n And Pryde abandoned the cloak. Or rather, she wore it properly, around her shoulders rather than covering her front. She didn\u2019t bother to have her dress fixed either. Men and women stared, some for different reasons than pure admiration. But Pryde ignored both. She rode down the streets as her citizens turned out to cheer their beloved [Lady].<\/p>\n \u201cLady Pryde, if you would wish it, we could find a suitable replacement dress for you. Or hire a [Seamstress]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Beshard was more conscious of his [Lady]\u2019s nudity. Pryde turned her head, staring down at Beshard, astonished.<\/p>\n \u201cHalt my return for such a menial task? Or wear garments out of, what, embarrassment, Beshard? Out of the question! We ride on! Have that Ogre\u2019s head displayed\u2014and the hammer he wielded! Let my people know the Ogres will never<\/em> touch my lands!\u201d<\/p>\n The man bowed as Pryde\u2019s eyes flashed. This was Pryde. Nudity, like shame, bounced off her ego. She rode ahead, possibly luxuriating in the envy, admiration, and stares she received. She raised an arm, holding out a hand to a young boy gaping with his mouth open.<\/p>\n \u201cA [Lady] is a [Lady] in every moment. Whether naked or clothed. Lady Zanthia might say something like that. I personally care not. And shame<\/em> is not something I feel for my body!\u201d<\/p>\n She nodded at a young girl\u2014possibly the boy\u2019s sister\u2014staring up at her. The girl beamed and waved and Pryde smiled. Beshard sighed. But it was true. This was the Ulta region. And like Pryde, the people believed that pride was a virtue above all others. It dictated society and even after eight years in her service, the Chandrarian man still found it disconcerting. And he was a Stitch-man, used to swapping body parts!<\/p>\n He tugged at some strings on his cotton-flesh arm that had come loose from throwing the javelins in battle.<\/p>\n \u201cYou will encourage your subjects, Lady Pryde. We already have complaints about the nudity.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat of it? If they wish to walk around naked, or run, let them. I find it amusing.\u201d<\/p>\n Pryde smiled. It was true that in her lands, there was a population of\u2026nudists. A rarity in any nation, but that was hardly the least of the eccentricities of the Ultanese people. She rode on, waving to her subjects. After a moment, some of her [Soldiers] bowed. The [Longbow Archer], a woman with a flush on her face as she tried to speak to Pryde\u2019s face, spoke.<\/p>\n \u201cYou weren\u2019t serious about vassalizing Ogres<\/em>, Lady Pryde? I heard you say as much to the Chieftain. That would be like Goblins!\u201d<\/p>\n Lady Pryde smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cIt was a passing comment. But I did think of it. I\u2019ve heard of Trolls being trainable. Wuvren claims she charmed one, once. But I changed my mind the instant I saw the Ogres. They are far too foul. One wonders what their females are like. Capable of more, I hope.\u201d<\/p>\n The longbowwoman looked at Beshard, and he shook his head. It would<\/em> be like Lady Pryde to try that. He was relieved the Ogres hadn\u2019t surrendered. Pryde, like many [Ladies] was willful, but she was especially bad. She\u2019d once imported a Griffin in hopes of being able to ride it around. And she was still seeking any edge that would establish her superiority over her fellow nobles.<\/p>\n \u201cLady Pryde, I\u2019m sure your victory will be the talk of the land for a week to come.\u201d<\/p>\n Beshard tried to stoke his [Lady]\u2019s ego. Pryde pursed her lips.<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps. But I have a mind to destroy this second Ogre band by the end of the week at least! Magnolia has let the adventurers do their work, but too slowly. She is laissez-faire. I<\/em> demand results.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Javelineer Commander] groaned, but internally. Externally, he only bowed.<\/p>\n \u201cI shall see to locating the second band. Your [Scouts] will find them, milady. But may I request we return our dead and wounded? We may need to alter tactics as your shield line is weakened.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf we must. I admit, the Ogre with the hammer was a decent bit of entertainment. Find the other Ogres, Beshard.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd perhaps we might replace your dress from the wardrobe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps.\u201d<\/p>\n The company rode back into the town they\u2019d left this morning to thunderous cheers. News had spread, and an impromptu parade greeted Pryde. She took it as her due, and Beshard conferred with the [Scouts] as she retired to the inn. By the time Pryde emerged in a new dress, Beshard had news.<\/p>\n \u201cLady Ulta, the second band of Ogres may not be a threat.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh? Have they fled after hearing news of the first group\u2019s demise already?\u201d<\/p>\n Lady Pryde was dining on a pickled egg; the outer parts had been dyed green by the brine, making it colorful and bright. Beshard repressed a shudder. Ultanese food was also a different thing. He turned to the [Scout], and the man shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cI do not believe they\u2019ve heard of your victory yet, Lady Pryde. Rather, they\u2019re being hunted. By [Knights]! A group of them has pledged to end the Ogres and they\u2019re close to clashing.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Lady] looked up sharply. Her eyes glinted.<\/p>\n \u201c[Knights]? I sent for no knights! Are they from Bethal? Bethal\u2019s [Knights]? On my<\/em> land, hunting the Ogres without permission?\u201d<\/p>\n Beshard winced.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, Lady Ulta. The Ogres are outside your domain. The [Knights] are merely passing through. And they are not the Knights of the Petal. I understand this is a Terandrian group. The Order of Seasons, apparently.\u201d<\/p>\n Pryde\u2019s eyebrows shot up.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Order of Seasons? That is unusual. They must be on some crusade of sorts. Nevertheless, they did not inform me of their presence.\u201d<\/p>\n She looked peeved, drumming her painted fingernails on the table. Beshard waited. Pryde had a temper. She could be the epitome of grace. Or furious if she felt she\u2019d been slighted.<\/p>\n Thankfully, she might have still been recovering her full reservoir of pride or sated from her victory, for the [Lady] only nodded sharply.<\/p>\n \u201cLet them take the second group, then. I have assuaged my curiosity and dealt with the Ogres troubling my lands. Magnolia will clean up the rest. Tell me if the Order of Seasons fails. And have them greet me once they are finished with their task. Now, I think I shall take a bath. That Ogre had remarkably foul breath! Summon my [Handmaidens]! Where are they? Entertaining themselves, no doubt. And I am minded to throw a f\u00eate in celebration. See to it, Beshard.\u201d<\/p>\n The man sighed. It wasn\u2019t easy being Pryde\u2019s servant all the time. But\u2014he saw the woman smile. And he couldn\u2019t help but copy the expression. It was like serving a second sun. He bowed deeply.<\/p>\n \u201cYour will be done, Lady Pryde!\u201d<\/p>\n And she only smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cOf course.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The second band of Ogres took two days to track from where the Order of Seasons had begun their search. It wasn\u2019t the difficulty of finding them that posed a challenge at first, but covering the ground the Ogres had on them.<\/p>\n They were quick!<\/em> Ogres could move as far as a horse in a day if they were inclined and this band had trusted to speed, striking here and fleeing before they were caught. They had a surprising amount of discipline; they looted what they wanted and retreated fast rather than wasting time.<\/p>\n But Talia and her companions had Skills and fresh mounts. More importantly, each [Knight] knew that every passing hour was another dead soul. So they rode, and rode hard. By the time Lady Pryde\u2019s victory reached them, they were certain the Ogres were within the area they were riding through.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, aye. The Ogres\u2019re up ahead. In the hills, I\u2019ve no doubt. They attacked Crimsal just yesterday. Might come this way. Might not. If they\u2019ve heard about the group that got wiped on Ulta lands, they might flee right off. Be a shame now you lot are here; I\u2019d rest easier knowing they were all dead.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Hermit] who spoke to Lady Talia gestured to the Eldessale Foothills in the distance. Talia bit the inside of her cheek.<\/p>\n \u201cI hope so, sir. We don\u2019t have the time to hunt for their base in such a wide area. But should you not flee the area? We intend to pursue the Ogres, but we cannot guarantee your safety.\u201d<\/p>\n The old man grinned at Talia and laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t you worry! My home\u2019s concealed by Skills, and I\u2019ve got more\u2019n one bolt hole. I wouldn\u2019t have let you know I was here but for the fact that you\u2019re [Knights]. Thought you were here for the Ogres. Maybe you can get them before that other loon gets killed.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOther?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia paused. Ser Lorell was waiting for news impatiently as some of the other [Knights] scouted for information. She turned back to the [Hermit]. He nodded sagely, pointing up ahead.<\/p>\n \u201cThought you knew? He went past my hut not a day ago. On foot. Went off after the Ogres, same as you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA fellow [Knight Errant]? Either he\u2019s one of Izril\u2019s finest or he underestimates his foe.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia was alarmed. The [Hermit] shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cThink he\u2019s mad<\/em>, Sers and Lady [Knights]! He might not even know about the Ogres; it was Goblins he was after! You haven\u2019t heard of him? A fellow in armor, smells to stink he does. Rarely speaks\u2014hunts Goblins day and night? He\u2019s gained a reputation since he arrived! Came from the south, so he did! Out of nowhere!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot at all. Who is this? An adventurer? A [Knight]?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Hermit] paused and shook his head. He lowered his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cEither or neither, Miss Knight. All I know is that he hates Goblins with a passion. They call him the Goblin Slayer.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The name sparked something in Talia\u2019s mind. She nodded slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cInteresting. Thank you for the information, sir. We may try to catch this person, lest he run afoul of so many Ogres.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe wasn\u2019t mounted, so you\u2019ve a chance. Best hunting! Let me know if those Ogres get killed. I hate them. Ever seen their shits on the ground? Worst things. Splashy.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia Kallinad left the [Hermit] behind and reported to Ser Lorell. Ser Eldein, Dame Ingrela, and two other [Knights] returned as well. They confirmed the Ogres were up ahead, but the news about the other [Knight] alarmed Ser Lorell.<\/p>\n \u201cI know Izril has a few orders, but I cannot say there are any great [Knights] to my knowledge. And it would<\/em> take a great [Knight] such as Teresa the Giant or Ser Alonaid the [Bow Knight] to face such a horde alone. If this \u2018Goblin Slayer\u2019 is hunting Goblins, we should find them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAgreed. Do we ride down the road or take to the foothills, Ser Lorell?\u201d<\/p>\n The Summer Knight hesitated. Talia waited, knowing what she\u2019d order. Ser Eldein glanced sideways at her, but Ser Lorell made up his mind after a moment.<\/p>\n \u201cThe foothills. The Ogres won\u2019t stick to the roads after the last group was defeated. They will be more opportunistic. Or do you disagree?\u201d<\/p>\n He stared at Talia. She inclined her head slightly.<\/p>\n \u201cNot at all, Ser Lorell.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen we ride. Mount up! Dame Chise, Ser Raist, in front! Dame Talia, Ser Thornst, choose four and scout.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knights] took off fast. They were wary of ambush, and Talia chose Eldein and a fellow [Summer Knight] to ride ahead, but she knew speed was of the essence. Her Order couldn\u2019t afford to spend a month tracking the Ogres down if they fled into the foothills. She urged her mount into the forest surrounding the foothills, picking a path upwards.<\/p>\n \u201cGah! My steed can\u2019t handle the terrain. Dame Talia, I fear he\u2019ll break an ankle.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein cried out as they passed through more dense trees with gnarled roots and stones. Ser Thornst nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cI as well. We\u2019ll have to go on foot unless we have [Steady Hooves] for our mounts or the like.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia frowned, but it was true. And the foothills would be just as bad for riding.<\/p>\n \u201cDismount, then. Let Ser Lorell know; Ser Thornst, will you take the horses back? You have a way with them.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein was junior, but it was true. Thornst nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cOf course. I imagine Dame Chise will keep her mount, and perhaps Ser Aldon. But I shall bring the rest back.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ll have to send them back to a town or village. The Ogres might well go after them.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein commented as Talia dismounted. The young woman nodded, grimacing.<\/p>\n \u201cI imagine we\u2019ll have to send one of our own back. Or perhaps the [Hermit] could\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She broke off and raised a gauntleted hand. Ser Eldein fell silent at once. Off their mounts, the two [Knights] heard a sound up ahead. Rustling.<\/em> They grabbed their weapons, alert. Talia motioned and the two spread out. They were hardly camouflaged with their bright metal armor, but they moved quietly, advancing. Talia rounded a tree and saw the Goblin Slayer.<\/p>\n Her first impression of him was of a kneeling figure. His armor was plain, but perfectly kept. He wore a full-visored helm, concealing his features. And his body was likewise covered, from head to toe.<\/p>\n That was like most [Knights]. But where Talia and Ser Eldein\u2019s armor was polished and bright, painted in the colors of their Season, the Goblin Slayer\u2019s armor was grimy. Not a single part shone. He smelled of dirt too, and Talia caught a foreign whiff from him that made her nose wrinkle. The Goblin Slayer was crouched, immobile as he studied a body on the ground.<\/p>\n A Goblin.<\/em> It\u2019s head had been split open and it was at least a day dead. The smell was foul and rotten. The Goblin Slayer knelt over it, inspecting the corpse. He had an intensity to even his posture as he remained still. Like a coiled spring, ready to explode if need be. But what stood out to her was the way he reacted to their presence. He looked up silently and she felt his gaze, hidden behind his helmet.<\/p>\n He had known they were here. <\/em>The armored figure said nothing. He waited. Then, slowly, he stood and stowed the knife he\u2019d been holding in one gauntleted hand. He turned, and reached for the pack on the ground. He looked back at the [Knights] and said not one word.<\/p>\n It was unnatural. Talia felt her skin prick slightly. Ser Eldein wavered and lowered his sword. He called out after a few seconds of silence.<\/p>\n \u201cWell met, stranger! Are you hunting monsters? I am Ser Eldein of the Order of Seasons! This is Dame Talia, likewise of the Order of Seasons! May we know your name and purpose?\u201d<\/p>\n The figure looked up. He stared at Ser Eldein, again, a bit too long. At last, he nodded and said one word.<\/p>\n \u201cGoblins.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n His tone was guttural, hoarse, as if strained from misuse. He seemed content with that reply. Talia saw him stowing something in a belt pouch. She saw a flash of green and realized what it was.<\/p>\n Ears.<\/em> He\u2019d cut off the ears of the Goblin corpse. Or\u2014just one. The head had been nearly destroyed by the blow. She saw Ser Eldein react with disgust. That wasn\u2019t a practice of [Knights], but adventurers. Dame Talia was more diplomatic. She sheathed her sword and smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you Ser Goblin Slayer? My company was informed you were hunting the Ogres. As we are. There is a war band of thirty in the area. Thirty Ogres\u2014a fearsome danger to the local citizens. Are you pursuing them?\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer looked up. He nodded once.<\/p>\n \u201cOgres and Goblins.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPardon me?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia frowned. The voice came out of the helmet.<\/p>\n \u201cOgres. And Goblins. They have Goblins. This is one of theirs.\u201d<\/p>\n He gestured down at the corpse. Dame Talia blinked. She looked sideways at Ser Eldein.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re told they number thirty in total, Ser Knight. Are you intending to battle them alone?\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n Another pause. Ser Eldein frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cBut there are thirty Ogres.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd Goblins. I hunt Goblins. So I hunt them.\u201d<\/p>\n With that said, the Goblin Slayer turned and began to walk away from Talia. She called out.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Knight, wait!\u201d<\/p>\n He paused and turned back towards her. Someone was moving towards them. Ser Thornst, perhaps. She cleared her throat.<\/p>\n \u201cWill you wait a moment? My company is behind me. We too hunt the Ogres. And Goblins. Might we pool information?\u201d<\/p>\n The armored figure considered her request. Slowly, he nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cFine.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia nodded to Ser Eldein. The other [Knight] sheathed his blade and turned. Ser Thornst stopped when he saw the Goblin Slayer, but the rest of the company converged on the spot in minutes. Ser Lorell blinked as well and covered his nose with a handkerchief; the other [Knights] looked at the body with disgust. And at the Goblin Slayer with suspicion.<\/p>\n \u201cWell met, Ser Knight. Are you the Goblin Slayer we have heard about? I understand you are following the trail of the Ogres. A worthy cause. Might I know your name and order?\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell greeted the Goblin Slayer cordially. They were all on foot, but for Dame Chise and Ser Aldon. Talia watched as the dark visor swung towards Ser Lorell. The Goblin Slayer paused for a long moment.<\/p>\n \u201cI hunt Goblins. Call me what you want. I am not a [Knight].\u201d<\/p>\n That was all he said. Ser Lorell faltered.<\/p>\n \u201cThen you are hunting the Ogres?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAlone?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAre you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n Are you a Gold-rank adventurer? Or Named?<\/em> Or just mad? <\/em>Ser Lorell was clearly thinking that. Talia was sure she\u2019d never heard of a \u2018Goblin Slayer\u2019 as a Named Adventurer, excluding Elia Arcsinger of course. After a moment, she broke in.<\/p>\n \u201cDo you believe the Ogres are in this area, Ser Slayer? We have tracked them by sightings and their attacks.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey are that way.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer pointed through the trees to the base of the hills. Ser Thornst frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cYou tracked them?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHere. And there.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLet me see.\u201d<\/p>\n One of the other [Spring Knights] who had a tracking Skill moved forwards. He squatted by the body and studied the tracks in the ground. It was all dirt to Talia, but he seemed to agree. As he noted the stiffness of the Goblin corpse, Talia stepped back with Chise, Thornst, and Lorell to confer. The senior [Summer Knights] eyed the Goblin Slayer. He was watching them all.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat an odd warrior. Not a [Knight], clearly. But he has the armor of one. That\u2019s good steel. New. Quite mobile as well.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Thornst nodded to the Goblin Slayer\u2019s armor. Indeed, he wore light armor, not as heavy as some of the [Knights], but it covered his body, allowing for superior movement. Talia knew a well-fitted suit of armor was like a second skin. A trained [Knight] could run, jump, swim, and climb in it with ease. Ser Lorell frowned darkly.<\/p>\n \u201cHe seems to match the description of this \u2018Goblin Slayer\u2019. I did hear a rumor of him on the road earlier. But he did not state he was such. An imposter, perhaps?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHis armor is meticulously maintained, for all of the smell. They\u2019re not all one set, though.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise studied the armored figure. Talia agreed. The armor was good beneath the dirt. Ser Lorell pursed his lips.<\/p>\n \u201cHe seems to be pursuing the Goblins. Should we insist on taking precedence?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWould he agree? This isn\u2019t Terandria, Ser Lorell.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNevertheless, we are nineteen.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf he\u2019s an adventurer, he might object\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll speak to him. Perhaps he can tell us more.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia backed out of the conversation and moved over to the Goblin Slayer. He was speaking to the [Spring Knight]. Ser Shait was speaking.<\/p>\n \u201cI count a large group. I\u2019d say\u2026fifty? More? Moving in the direction of the hills, indeed. That squares with the thirty-some Ogres. The Goblins\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTwenty-five. Males and females. No Hobs. Few Goblins are with the Ogres.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer\u2019s voice made the [Knights] look up. Ser Eldein blinked.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can count so accurately, ser?\u201d<\/p>\n The helmeted head moved towards him.<\/p>\n \u201cI know Goblins. Twenty-five.\u201d<\/p>\n A specialized class for hunting Goblins, perhaps.<\/em> Talia had met [Hunters] like the [Witch Hunters] who were like that. She had never met one that killed just Goblins. As Ser Eldein paused, she studied the silent figure.<\/p>\n \u201cNo Hobs? Ah, Hobgoblins. Is that unusual, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n She squatted down next to the Goblin Slayer, steeling her stomach against the smell of the body. It had yet to truly stink. The Goblin Slayer paused.<\/p>\n \u201cHobs rarely appear in slave tribes. Goblins move too slow for Ogres. Tracks also show the same.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSlave tribes?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. This is one. Goblins obey larger monsters. Twenty-five for fighting came this way. Thirty Ogres. This one was one of them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhy did it die? An accident? Its head looks\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCrushed. Ogre club.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer dispassionately pointed. Talia nodded. Even she could read that much.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you\u2019re sure of the count?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFifteen female. Ten male.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Thornst had come over. He frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cMore female than male?\u201d<\/p>\n For answer, the Goblin Slayer pulled at the dead Goblin\u2019s loincloth. The [Knights] recoiled.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Slayer!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLook. Female.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia averted her gaze.<\/p>\n \u201cThat is unseemly.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe Goblin\u2019s dead. Angered the Ogres. Probably.\u201d<\/p>\n The cold voice from behind the helmet could have been staring at a rock on the ground. There was something almost\u2026Golem-like about the Goblin Slayer. Talia got the sense of incredible focus from him. He was interested in only one thing. The Goblins. He gave her the impression of resenting even this delay.<\/p>\n Ser Lorell frowned. He\u2019d come over, still covering his nose as he stared down at the female Goblin in confusion.<\/p>\n \u201cWouldn\u2019t Ogres leave females behind? The bestiary states that few female Ogres fight in their raiding parties. Would that not hold the same for Goblins?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. Ogres get bored.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia recoiled. It took some of the [Knights] longer to understand what the Goblin Slayer meant. Ser Lorell took a full minute, and then he paled.<\/p>\n \u201cBut that\u2019s\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnother reason to do away with them. Not that Goblins are different. This band has killed dozens. Ser Slayer, we are hunting them like you. May I ask what you intend to do when you find this band of monsters?\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer looked at Talia. His voice was calm.<\/p>\n \u201cTrack them to their lair. Kill them there. Can\u2019t fight in the open. Ogres run too quickly.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cKill all of them?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBy y\u2014how?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOne by one.\u201d<\/p>\n It was like talking to a mildly communicative rock. Talia shook her head. She looked around, gauging the response of the other [Knights]. Most looked suspicious, but Dame Chise was nodding to the tracks. The Goblin Slayer was better at tracking than their company; they hadn\u2019t been assembled for their tracking Skills, only to slay Belavierr. Talia took a breath.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd if nineteen [Knights] were to do battle alongside you, Ser Slayer? Our quarry is the Ogres and Goblins both. Let us join forces.\u201d<\/p>\n The offer took both the Goblin Slayer and Ser Lorell off-guard. He drew Talia back as the Goblin Slayer paused.<\/p>\n \u201cDame Talia!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s set on his quarry, and he can track the monsters, Ser Lorell. It makes sense.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCan we trust him?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Summer Knight] looked at the Goblin Slayer with great distrust. Talia shrugged. She beckoned, and a [Spring Knight] hurried over.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you see, Ser Thaime? Can you appraise him?\u201d<\/p>\n The man nodded. He stared at the Goblin Slayer, and Talia saw his lips move silently. He used a Skill. [Measure of Valor].<\/em> After a moment, he looked up at Ser Lorell and Talia and nodded.<\/p>\n Lorell frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, Ser Thaime? His worth?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHigh. \u2018Tis not akin to one of our order, but high nonetheless. I see deception, guilt of failure, and the mark of cowardice upon him, but no heinous crimes.\u201d<\/p>\n The answer surprised Lorell. Talia too, honestly. Lorell raised his eyebrows incredulously.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re sure? What of cowardice?\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Thaime shrugged. His Skill allowed him to see the worth of an individual\u2014at least, as a [Knight] judged such things. It wasn\u2019t a foolproof Skill; there were honorable [Thieves], and lauded adventurers who held dark secrets. But it was a good measure the Order of Seasons liked to use.<\/p>\n \u201cCowardice in valor, Ser Lorell. I have seen the like upon our Grandmaster, the Summer\u2019s Champion. Those who fled a battlefield at the last look so to me. As a whole, I call yon Ser Slayer a man of valor.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs that so.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell looked unhappy, but Talia smiled. She nodded to the other [Knights].<\/p>\n \u201cDeception is well explained by how he acts. Cloaking himself in the blood and scent of Goblins? Exterminating them as they sleep? Hardly the act of a [Knight]. But he fights for a good cause. I say we pool our might of arms lest we foul each other accidentally.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein and a few of the other [Knights] nodded agreement. Ser Lorell looked around, but Talia knew she had the support of most of the others. He nodded grudgingly.<\/p>\n \u201cVery well. You may extend the invitation.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia already had. She approached the Goblin Slayer. He had folded his arms.<\/p>\n \u201cI kill Goblins alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWith respect, Ser Slayer, these Ogres are more than a small band of Goblins. I am told the rest of their clan and an entire Goblin tribe nests in the hills.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. I will hunt them too.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia nodded patiently. She gestured to the rest of the Order.<\/p>\n \u201cBut that is our charge as well. And since we have pledged to rid the world of these Ogres, we will not cease. Will you give up your hunt and entrust the burden of defeating these monsters to us, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. There are Goblins. I hunt them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo it is. Then let us work together. Or else we will endanger our causes by working apart.\u201d<\/p>\n It was well-said, and after a moment, the Goblin Slayer reluctantly nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cFine. We hunt together. Follow me.\u201d<\/p>\n With that, he turned and began walking through the forest. The Order of Seasons started, but as Talia nodded, they trooped after the Goblin Slayer. He looked displeased\u2014at least, behind his helmet. Talia strode forwards with Ser Eldein to walk alongside him.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Slayer\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNoisy.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n Eldein looked affronted. The [Knights] were moving with a minimum of crackling footsteps in the underbrush. The Goblin Slayer looked at him.<\/p>\n \u201cNoisy. Your [Knights] are noisy. Your armor is too loud. Too bright. And you smell. The Ogres won\u2019t let you catch them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps if we are too close, Ser Slayer. But we are used to the wilderness.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia smiled, a bit annoyed by the blunt criticism. The Goblin Slayer shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cNo. You smell. They are downwind. They will smell you. Use this.\u201d<\/p>\n He paused and took something from his belt. Talia and Eldein recoiled when they saw a dried, stinking\u2014<\/p>\n \u201cIs that a foot?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGoblin\u2019s foot. Smells like a Goblin. Put it on armor.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAbsolutely not!\u201d<\/p>\n Eldein backed up. The other [Knights] gagged at the sight of the body part. Talia stared at the Goblin Slayer. That explained his unique odor.<\/p>\n \u201cYou camouflage yourself by smell, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGoblins smell metal. I go ahead. You all stay back. Or use this.\u201d<\/p>\n He offered it to Talia. She hesitated. She could see Ser Lorell shaking his head, but after a moment, she took the body part. She shuddered despite wearing gauntlets.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat must I do?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWipe it over your armor. Dirt too.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer bent and smeared dirt on her breastplate. Talia stared at the dirt, but she knew it made sense. Some [Knights] in her Order took the same precautions. Just not the foot!<\/em><\/p>\n It took her a minute to do as the Goblin Slayer bid. He sniffed<\/em> her, then nodded. Ser Eldein did likewise, but he refused to put the foot on his armor. The Goblin Slayer relented; the dirt was enough.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ll scout ahead, Ser Lorell.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Summer Knight] rolled his eyes, but let Talia, Eldein, and the Goblin Slayer move ahead. They were following the tracks. Some were obvious, like an Ogre blundering into a bush and uprooting them, but the Goblin Slayer noticed more. He was pointing out piles of stool.<\/p>\n \u201cAte here. Six hours, perhaps.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou seem very knowledgeable, Ser Slayer.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia didn\u2019t bend down to inspect the still-damp stool. The Goblin Slayer straightened.<\/p>\n \u201cI hunt Goblins.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo you said. But it seems an odd occupation. Goblins are hardly profitable creatures for adventurers, are they, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein muttered. The Goblin Slayer looked up.<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou seem to have garnered a reputation, sir. May I ask if you have a reason to hunting Goblins to exclusion?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia looked at the Goblin Slayer. He stared straight back and she felt a chill. He hadn\u2019t removed his helmet the entire time. In fact, he\u2019d drunk through a straw. Perhaps it was paranoia, although Talia had put her own helmet on since they were hot on the heels of the Ogres. The Goblin Slayer nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cI have my reasons. Let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/p>\n The two [Knights] fell silent, looking at each other. The Goblin Slayer was hardly talkative despite Talia\u2019s best efforts to engage him. But how much did she need to know? It wasn\u2019t hard to understand.<\/p>\n Here was a man who hunted Goblins. Why? You could imagine any number of reasons. None of them pretty. But his single-minded devotion to the cause spoke to Talia of a grudge. She wanted to know what it was. He interested her.<\/p>\n They were moving uphill when the Goblin Slayer grabbed Talia\u2019s arm. She stopped as he yanked her back.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cStop. A trap.\u201d<\/p>\n He\u2019d found something. In the trees, a metal spike embedded in wood. It was poised to swing down once Talia hit the nearly-invisible trigger. She shuddered, eyeing it as the Goblin Slayer climbed up. He was as mobile as she\u2019d thought! He came down with it. Ser Eldein looked appalled.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is that?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGoblin trap. Ogres must have told them to set it up. They have a camp near here.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re sure?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. Ogres don\u2019t use traps. Goblins do.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve never heard of Goblin traps! And I\u2019ve eradicated a tribe before.\u201d<\/p>\n The helmeted head slowly swung towards Ser Eldein.<\/p>\n \u201cSome Goblins use traps.\u201d<\/p>\n That was that. The [Knight] paused. Talia frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cWill there be more traps?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cProbably.\u201d<\/p>\n So saying, the Goblin Slayer put the trap in a bag of holding and took the tripwire and other parts of the trap. That surprised Talia. As they stopped to warn Ser Lorell and the other [Knights], the Ser Lorell frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cTraps? These seem primitive.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cEven so, night is falling. We should not venture forwards so near to the Ogre\u2019s camp and risk alerting them and falling into traps.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise cautioned the group. Talia glanced sideways at the Goblin Slayer. He was staring up at the fading sun.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can see traps. But the Goblins can see at night. Better to wait for dawn.\u201d<\/p>\n Since I have to put up with you.<\/em> Some of the Order of Seasons frowned, but they eventually agreed. Ser Lorell ordered a camp struck and sentries posted. The [Knights] made a small, smokeless fire and ate travel rations. Talia had hoped the Goblin Slayer would join them, but the adventurer sat far from the fire. He\u2019d taken the trap he\u2019d found out and was working on something beside it. Talia walked over.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Slayer, what are you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She paused when she saw the second trap. It was a net, the kind [Fishers] might use in a river or stream. The Goblin Slayer was attaching metal shards to the net, tying them into place. Each was a wickedly sharp blade. The Goblin Slayer walked over to a span of trees and anchored the net into place. Anyone rushing through incautiously would run straight into it. Then he grabbed the Goblin trap and began rearming it at another point in the trees.<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons had seen what he was doing. Ser Eldein protested.<\/p>\n \u201cThat is not a chivalrous weapon! Ser Slayer, we do not need traps!<\/em> We are hunting the Ogres!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey might attack. Goblins would.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDo they know we\u2019re here? We\u2019ve had no signs of them and we\u2019ve kept quiet.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise looked skeptical. The Goblin Slayer just pointed to the fire as a reply. Ser Lorell flushed; he\u2019d been the one to insist on a fire.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is an overabundance of caution. Our sentries are well-positioned.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd now they have traps.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell\u2019s mouth worked, and he gave up.<\/p>\n \u201cAs you will! I shall take third watch. Everyone, to your positions. Let us at least rest well for tomorrow\u2019s encounter. Ser Slayer may set up all the traps he wishes.\u201d<\/p>\n So he did. As the Order of Seasons settled down, pulling gear out of their bags of holding, Talia saw the Goblin Slayer set up eight more traps.<\/p>\n \u201cYou take many precautions, ser.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have to. I work alone.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer looked up and looked at Talia. He seemed uneasy at her company. Of course, he was used to isolation. She hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cYou have a number of items in your bag of holding. Traps. I see you use a shortsword. Do you have any other weapons?\u201d<\/p>\n He paused.<\/p>\n \u201cI have another trick. I will use it when we fight if needed.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWill you not take supper with us?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia conveyed his words to Ser Lorell. The [Knight] grunted sourly, eating from the pot. The fire truly was smokeless, and the light contained by the glade, but some of the [Knights] had taken the Goblin Slayer\u2019s precautions seriously. They were checking their weapons and making sure they lay next to them where they slept.<\/p>\n \u201cLet this adventurer do what he wills, Dame Talia. We shall see his mettle tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n He gestured to the Goblin Slayer. The armored figure ate alone in the darkness far from the fire. Talia kept glancing his way. Ser Eldein sat next to Talia as she ate some stew seasoned with bits of pickled herring.<\/p>\n \u201cYou seem intrigued by Ser Slayer, Dame Talia.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cJust interested, Ser Eldein. He reminds me of the [Hunters] from Terandria. They are much like him.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Spring Knight] nodded, but looked perplexed. Talia smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, very well. I have another reason. You know that I am a [Lady]?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn upbringing, perhaps, but I call you a fellow [Knight] above all.\u201d<\/p>\n His words made Talia smile. She shook her head.<\/p>\n \u201cI mean that I have the class. And I have few Skills I gained before becoming a [Squire]. One of them tells me yon Goblin Slayer is a person of interest.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. What is the name of the Skill, if it is not secret?\u201d<\/p>\n It was, but Talia didn\u2019t mind sharing among her comrades.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is called [Mark of Worth]. Some [Commanders] and [Leaders] have something like it. In my case, it would help me choose worthy retainers. Not necessarily trustworthy ones, but it does help. I sometimes see such people. There were a few in Riverfarm, for instance.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLike the Stitch Witch?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia\u2019s smile vanished.<\/p>\n \u201cOh yes. Worth comes in many forms. To me, I see notable figures. I wonder what makes this Goblin Slayer so important. Perhaps he is capable of killing thirty Ogres over time.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe shall see. Ah, but I have second watch. I should sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia nodded. She bedded down, noting that the Goblin Slayer had vanished. She thought his silhouette might be leaning against a tree. Paranoia? Or\u2026<\/p>\n Her thoughts drifted off and Talia let herself relax. She slept, knowing her watch was nearest to dawn. The [Knights] relaxed, trading off watches with the sentries in the darkness. The fire\u2019s embers had long been extinguished and the forest was silent.<\/p>\n The Ogres fell upon the camp in the night. They might have swept through the heart of the camp and slumbering [Knights] but for the sentries. And the traps. The [Sentries] shouted the alarm seconds before the monsters hit the camp.<\/p>\n The first Goblin crashed into the net full of blades and screamed.<\/em> Talia lurched out of her bedroll, grabbing for her sword. An Ogre hit the plank with a spike and shouted with pain. That brief window was all the time she needed to roll to her feet. Ser Eldein struggled out of his bedroll, tearing the fabric, swearing, grabbing at his sword.<\/p>\n The monsters had thought they could overrun the Humans despite the alarm, but they had never met trained [Knights]. And the Order of Seasons was used to watchfulness in the field. In moments they were on their feet.<\/p>\n \u201cAttack! Rally to me! [Summer Knights], forwards! [Spring Knights] to the flanks!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell\u2019s voice rose above the din. In the darkness, Talia unsheathed her blade. It glowed<\/em> in the darkness. And then she saw them.<\/p>\n Ogres<\/em>. Thirty of them streamed into the glade, battling the [Sentries]. They were huge, dwarfing the Humans! And around them raced smaller shapes. Goblins, green, their eyes glowing crimson as they hurled themselves forwards. The [Knights] charged with wild cries. They were wearing their armor, like the Goblin Slayer.<\/p>\n Talia saw a huge Ogre leading the group. Like the Chieftain that Pryde had encountered, this was the biggest yet. He carried a huge club, with dozens of tiny blades embedded in the wood. He roared as he swung and Dame Chise rolled out of the way; she went for her horse, rearing and screaming as Goblins swarmed around it.<\/p>\n \u201cLeader! <\/em>Knights of the Summer, to me! Bring down that Ogre with the club!\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell roared as he pointed at the Ogre. Around him, the Order of Seasons engaged. The [Spring Knights] leapt forwards, attacking, dodging, blocking, trained warriors used to a melee. But the higher-level [Knights], including Talia, stopped. She raised her sword, watching an Ogre charging towards her. She shouted and focused the heat of her fury into her blade.<\/p>\n \u201cAs the Summer blazes, let my foes fear the sun! [Aura Blade]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The plain steel sword began to heat up. Then it glowed. First red, then orange, and then yellow. And then white-hot! The glow illuminated the dark clearing and the Ogre shielded his face. Talia felt the heat of the blade and swung it; the searing metal sliced the air, leaving an afterimage. But she was used to it.<\/p>\n Ser Lorell had done the same, only with his shield. Dame Chise, Ser Thornst\u2014all the senior members were shouting Skills. Concentrating their aura.<\/p>\n That was what the Order of Seasons were. Aura specialists, [Knights] who embodied the fury of their season. Now the Summer Knights copied Talia. Armor began to blaze with heat, or radiate light that blinded their foes in the night. Talia swung her white-hot blade, slashing with it as she guarded her left with her shield.<\/p>\n Her first jab took the Ogre in the side. He was wearing patchwork leather, but the blade went through<\/em> the crude armor and the Ogre screamed<\/em>. A slight scratch hurt far more and he recoiled. His club lost its trajectory and struck Talia\u2019s shield.<\/p>\n It was still a heavy blow, but she threw it aside. She would have slashed again, but a Goblin attacked from her left. Talia slashed left, turning, and the Goblin screamed<\/em> as the blade cut across his chest, burning skin and armor. She caught the Goblin\u2019s hatchet and the weapon burst into flame, forcing the Goblin to drop it!<\/p>\n The heat didn\u2019t make the metal any weaker. And it was hot.<\/em> Talia might have lacked the ability to become a burning fireball like the senior [Knights] of her season, let alone reach the levels Ser Raim and the Summer\u2019s Champion could, but her sword was still as deadly as many enchanted weapons. One touch would ignite or sear flesh beyond recognition. That held true of the Ogres\u2019 and Goblins\u2019 weapons too.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Eldein! To me!\u201d<\/p>\n Talia backed up and saw the [Spring Knight] fighting in a whirlwind, eight Goblins lunging at once at him. His armor took many of the blows, but the Ogres were a deadly threat. While the Goblins distracted, they went in for crushing blows that would kill most of the Order of Seasons if not blocked or dodged.<\/p>\n \u201cDame Talia, your left!\u201d<\/p>\n Talia spun. She cut and the Ogre reeled back, wary of her blade. He was good, and he had a shield of his own, but Talia was trained. She stepped in, and Eldein warded her flank and cut. Her sword dipped, feinting, and then speared<\/em> the Ogre through the leg.<\/p>\n Smoke and a scream. The Ogre lashed out at her, but Talia moved back. Now he was crippled and she and Eldein backed up, battling the Goblins, pushing another Ogre back. Eldein grunted<\/em> as he blocked a heavy strike from an Ogre. His knees buckled, but he remained standing. A Goblin slashed across his legs, finding a weak spot in his armor. He cried out, and Talia beheaded the Goblin.<\/p>\n \u201cPotion.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knight] grabbed it, drank, and spun before the monsters could capitalize on his injury. He turned.<\/p>\n \u201cDead gods! Dame Talia, the Goblin Slayer!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhere?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia whirled. She\u2019d forgotten about their companion. While the Order of Seasons had grouped up, the Goblin Slayer had been alone! She turned\u2014<\/p>\n And saw him fighting. The Goblin Slayer rolled, avoiding an Ogre swinging a bastard sword one-handed. The Goblin Slayer rose, running the Ogre through the back of his knee. The blow went through<\/em> the kneecap. The Ogre went down, screaming, and the Goblin Slayer turned. He backhanded a Goblin running at him and leapt forwards. He didn\u2019t go for the Ogre\u2019s throat; avoiding the flailing arms, he cut the Ogre on the leg. Opening an artery. Then he leapt back.<\/p>\n A Goblin ran at him. The Goblin Slayer ran it through. The Goblin jerked<\/em>. Without hesitation, the Goblin Slayer kicked him off the blade. He whirled. This time he punched<\/em> a Goblin off her feet. He didn\u2019t hesitate to use his fists or feet rather than waste time getting his blade into position. He went for a second Ogre.<\/p>\n \u201cThe legs! Take them from the legs! Group up!\u201d<\/p>\n Talia shouted at Eldein and the [Knights] around them. She fought towards the Goblin Slayer, trying to come to his aid. He was alone, dodging from every direction. And he was good!<\/em> Good as any [Knight], but he and the Order of Seasons were outnumbered. Talia was shouting his name when she heard a cry and her own name.<\/p>\n \u201cDame Talia! Your left!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n She turned and saw the Ogre Chief. He was swinging his club, clearing a huge space as three [Knights] tried to bring him down. Talia joined Ser Eldein, lunging forwards, trying to slash at this Ogre, but he was wearing armor on his lower half as well as his upper and he was quicker than the other Ogres. His huge club was too much of a threat. The [Knights] feinted around him. Then Ser Eldein, impatient, or spotting an opportunity, leapt forwards. He slashed, catching the Ogre on the side. The monster roared<\/em> and swung his club in a tight arc, incredibly fast.<\/p>\n The blow hit Ser Eldein straight in the chest. He went flying backwards, his chest plate dented, bleeding from the metal embedded in the club.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Eldein!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Talia saw the two other [Knights] leap forwards, shields raised, covering her. She battered aside a Goblin standing over Ser Eldein with her shield, reached for him. He was lying on the ground, weakly reaching for his belt.<\/p>\n His potions<\/em>. They\u2019d smashed. Talia grabbed one from her belt. She smashed it on his chest, watching the liquid mix with his blood. She waited, crouched over him. His ribs were most likely broken. Her potion wouldn\u2019t stop that. When he healed, they\u2019d move him to safety\u2014<\/p>\n The blood didn\u2019t stop. Talia stared down. Eldein was staring at his chest.<\/p>\n \u201cThe potion.\u201d<\/p>\n She reached for another.<\/p>\n \u201cHere! Drink!\u201d<\/p>\n This time, Ser Eldein accepted it. He fumbled with the cork. His lips were pale. Talia slashed at a Goblin, swearing. An Ogre hurled a stone at her, and she blocked it. She looked down as Dame Chise rode down on the Ogre, lance raised. Eldein was drinking. But as he lowered the potion, the blood running from his ruined chest plate didn\u2019t stop.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m bleeding.\u201d<\/p>\n The young man gasped. Talia reached for him.<\/p>\n \u201cThe potions\u2014they\u2019re defective? Or\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Then she saw it. A glimmer of metal in his ruined armor. Talia froze. Ser Eldein\u2019s unfocused gaze fell upon the same object and stopped.<\/p>\n It was just a triangle of metal. Thin. Sharp as anything. It had been part of the Ogre Chief\u2019s club. But it was no regular piece of metal.<\/p>\n An Evercut Arrow.<\/em> Talia stared at the arrowhead that had broken off and lodged in Ser Eldein\u2019s chest. She recognized the distinctive look. It was a powerful weapon, one that healing potions couldn\u2019t fix.<\/p>\n Slowly, she looked at Ser Eldein. Then at the Ogre Chief. He was laughing, having cut other [Knights] with savage swings from his clubs. They were falling back, shouting as they realized what she had.<\/p>\n \u201cEvercut Arrows! Watch yourselves!\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Eldein\u2019s eyes widened as Talia screamed. He looked down at his chest. And then up at her. She stared at him. And then at the Ogres. How had they known? But they were not just mindless beasts.<\/p>\n They were monsters, but they adapted. The Ogre war leader swung his club and the [Knights], forewarned, retreated. Talia looked down. Eldein looked at her. His face was white, draining of blood. But his voice was suddenly calm.<\/p>\n \u201cI am cut, Talia. Mortally. Spring ends.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. We can find a way to heal you. Sear the wounds closed! That works!\u201d<\/p>\n Talia raised her blade. But Eldein shook his head. Slowly, he stood. Blood ran down his armor, covering the colors of spring.<\/p>\n \u201cToo late.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSer Eldein!\u201d<\/p>\n She reached for him. The young man caught Talia. His grip was so weak.<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cLet me fight. Let me die standing.\u201d<\/p>\n He could barely raise his sword. But Talia looked in his eyes and saw the truth. Slowly, she turned. The world slowed around them as the [Knights] raised their blades.<\/p>\n Ogres and Goblins. They assailed the Order of Seasons. They came at Eldein, seeing his weakness. Talia took the left, circling, hacking at Goblins, screaming. Ser Eldein raised his shield, uttering a cry.<\/p>\n The Ogre had a mace. And a second one, a flail. Talia ducked the swinging ball of spikes. She slashed at the Ogre\u2019s side, cutting deep. Her sword seared flesh; the giant warrior screamed, but the cut was shallow. She dodged back, slicing at a leg. The Ogre with a flail made a huge swing. Talia ducked, feeling it pass over her head.<\/p>\n And the Goblin Slayer leapt. He stabbed a long dagger deep in the Ogre\u2019s side. The monster howled<\/em> and turned, staggering. Talia looked back. Ser Eldein was fighting the one with the mace. He raised his shield. And his eyes found her.<\/p>\n The Ogre with the mace swung. A crushing blow. It broke past Eldein\u2019s guard. The blow sent him down and crushed his helmet and shoulder on the right side. Talia cried out and attacked from the side, in the opening Eldein had given her. She struck home. Her blade pierced the Ogre deep in the chest and flesh charred. The Ogre jerked and collapsed, his innards smoking. Gone.<\/p>\n So was Eldein. Talia saw only a still body. She nearly ran to him, but then she turned. The Goblin Slayer was fighting the other Ogre! She whirled\u2014<\/p>\n The Ogre was dead. Talia stared as the Goblin Slayer lowered his blade. He\u2019d killed the Ogre himself! Talia saw the beast\u2019s chest and broken chainmail rent by a terrific blow. A Skill?<\/p>\n There was no time to ask. Talia heard a roar.<\/em> The Ogre Chief was forcing the [Knights] back. His club kept them at bay. Talia saw the Goblin Slayer look up. He focused on the Ogre.<\/p>\n \u201cDangerous.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSer Slayer! The Ogre! Do you have a bow? Can you strike it from afar? I can concentrate my aura, but\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The Ogre was too big! Talia saw the Goblin Slayer hesitate.<\/p>\n \u201cI can kill the Ogre. Sneak attack. Other [Knights] must get clear! Can you distract it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes! Seasons, fall back!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Talia shouted. So saying, she raised her blade. The white-hot blade grew even brighter as the Ogre Chief turned. He shaded his face, coming at them. Talia saw the Goblin Slayer reach for his side. He lifted something\u2014she squinted to see.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAxe.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer raised the jade and gold axe. The jade edge glowed<\/em> and Talia saw a magical edge appear, expanding, giving the axe a head three times as large as below. The glowing green blade shimmered as the Goblin Slayer lifted over his head\u2014then threw<\/em> it at the Ogre.<\/p>\n A scythe of magic cut across the glade. It spun through a Goblin. The rotating magical edge slashed towards the Ogre Chief. His eyes widened and the Ogre raised an arm to shield himself. Too late. The magical axe cut into the Ogre\u2019s arm, cutting it nearly in half!<\/p>\n The beast screamed\u2014and the Goblin Slayer ran. He had his shortsword. He planted the sword in the Ogre\u2019s stomach, twisting the blade. Talia slashed, cutting at the legs, and a third [Knight] ran the screaming monster through the back from horseback. The lance ended the scream. The Ogre fell, dropping the deadly club.<\/p>\n The battle ended with the Chieftain\u2019s fall. The Ogres began to flee, what few remained. And the Goblins ran. There were only a dozen left. The Order of Seasons began to pursue.<\/p>\n \u201cPursue the Goblins! We\u2019ll cut as many down\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell\u2019s raised voice was cut off by the Goblin Slayer.<\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knights] halted, confused. The Goblin Slayer pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cNo. They\u2019re going back to their tribe. Let them.\u201d<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons paused. Talia saw Lorell open his mouth. Then there was a cry.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Eldein!\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knights] turned. The light of battle went out in Talia abruptly. She lowered her sword and closed her eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cAh.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Ser Eldein had died fighting. He had given his life to let Talia slay an Ogre. The Evercut Arrows had already been his death. All of these things were facts. It didn\u2019t change that he was dead.<\/p>\n They buried him where he had fallen. They could have taken his remains back. And Talia did take his sword and shield. But that wasn\u2019t the way of the Order of Seasons. Instead, the [Knights] dug a grave. They placed weapons around his grave and laid their comrade to rest there. There was no face left for Talia; they draped a cloth over his head.<\/p>\n Ser Lorell\u2019s face was grave. He and some of the other [Knights] still bled, but none had fallen. The Order had given a ferocious fight with the Goblin Slayer. With potions, they had beaten the Ogres. Only Ser Eldein had fallen. But it was already too much. Talia wept silently as Ser Lorell spoke before the Order of Seasons gathered around the simple grave.<\/p>\n \u201cAll things pass. As spring passes we wither. Summer\u2019s glory fades. Autumn\u2019s twilight deepens into darkness. And even the silence of winter must end. Yet the passing of time remembers glory. And so long as time continues, we remember. Ser Eldein, we return you to spring\u2019s embrace. Your name shall not be forgotten so long as all who stand here live!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSpring ends.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knights] murmured. The Knights of Spring laid their brother to rest first. They stepped back, raising their blades. Many were weeping too.<\/p>\n \u201cSpring ends!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer watched. He stood alone, an outsider. But he had fought with them. As each [Knight] paid their last respects, Talia rose from Eldein\u2019s grave.<\/p>\n \u201cYou fought with all the courage of Spring and Summer, friend. I will not forget you.\u201d<\/p>\n She hadn\u2019t prettier words to say. She turned. And saw the Goblin Slayer retreating. But she caught him as he began to move back.<\/p>\n \u201cLook. Ser Slayer, look<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n He turned. And stopped. Where Ser Eldein had been buried, as the fresh dirt still settled, something was happening. Shoots of grass rose from the soil. Flowers, growing, budding, opening.<\/p>\n The grave was blooming. <\/em>The Order of Seasons watched, breathless. Talia had seen it before. But the moment still made her heart hurt. Ser Eldein\u2019s grave slowly bloomed, and a flash of color rose in the bloody clearing. Amid the death and carnage, something beautiful emerged. Growing.<\/p>\n It was not magic. The grave blossomed. The plants, native to Terandria, grew, not to maturity, but close. Spring\u2019s scent hovered in the air.<\/p>\n Then it stopped. The flowers blew in a sudden breeze, suddenly fresh, but mortal. The mystery faded. Talia breathed again. She looked at the Goblin Slayer. The bloody helmet turned towards her.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat was that?\u201d<\/p>\n She smiled, and wiped at her face. Slowly, Ser Lorell raised his head. And his eyes shimmered with tears. Talia nodded at him and bowed her head. She spoke one word.<\/p>\n \u201cSpring.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n They burned the Goblin bodies. And then the Ogres. It was a horrible task, even with the [Summer Knight]\u2019s ability to call fire. But a necessity. While they did that, Dame Chise, the Goblin Slayer, and Talia went after the Goblins. They came back with news.<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s a tribe of them in the foothills. The Goblin Slayer reckons at least eighty. Possibly as many as two hundred.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot a small tribe!\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Thornst clenched his fist. The Goblin Slayer shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cSmall. Weak. Many died fighting adventurers. It was probably eight hundred. Ogres made them fight.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, the rest shall die. It seems we have one last task ahead of us, brothers, sisters.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell\u2019s face was grim. Talia nodded, but it was the Goblin Slayer who shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons stared at him, perplexed. He had been accorded far more respect for his feats in battle. Ser Lorell worked his jaw.<\/p>\n \u201cBut Ser Goblin Slayer\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI will hunt them. Myself.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knights] stared at him. Dame Ingrela looked incredulous.<\/p>\n \u201cWith all due respect, Ser Slayer, we did not come all this way to leave a job undone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. I will finish it. I promise.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer looked at her. Ingrela frowned. It was Talia who spoke up.<\/p>\n \u201cSer Slayer, why do you insist on doing it alone? At least give us reason for your motives.\u201d<\/p>\n The armored figure paused. When he spoke, it was succinctly.<\/p>\n \u201c[Knights] fight well. But you fight battles. Some Goblins will escape. I will not let Goblins escape when I hunt.\u201d<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons exchanged glances. Ser Lorell\u2019s voice was confused.<\/p>\n \u201cSo what if a few Goblins escape, Ser Goblin Slayer? They may rebuild, but Goblins are impossible to eradicate. It would be quicker to\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The helmet turned.<\/p>\n \u201cDo you want to know\u2026how Goblin Lords are made?\u201d<\/p>\n The company of [Knights] fell silent. All eyes focused on the Goblin Slayer. He spoke slowly. But this time the words came more fluently. As if he\u2019d said this before. No\u2014they came from the heart. The grating voice echoed as Talia looked at him, his hunched figure.<\/p>\n \u201cIt happens like this. There is always a tribe. Always Goblins. And adventurers hunt Goblins. Or [Knights]. Or an army. Doesn\u2019t matter. They kill them. All but one or two. Because Goblins hide<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n He looked up, meeting eyes with his visor. The [Knights] listened, silent. The Goblin Slayer\u2019s voice darkened.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd that one Goblin that lives? It remembers. It learns. Usually it still dies. But sometimes it lives. And then it grows older. Gets stronger. It never forgets. That Goblin becomes a Hobgoblin. And then a Chieftain. And then a Goblin Lord. If it is strong enough. It remembers. And it seeks vengeance.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe survivor.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia murmured. The helmet swung towards her.<\/p>\n \u201cYes. Few can become Goblin Lords or Chieftains. Few can become Hobs. But a Goblin that sees its tribe die. That Goblin has a reason to become one. So if you want to stop Goblin Lords? You kill every <\/em>Goblin in a tribe.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe one that remains seeks\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise looked at the Goblin Slayer. And then she glanced at her companions. Slowly, the Order of Seasons nodded. The Goblin Slayer missed the looks they gave each other. But then Ser Lorell stood.<\/p>\n \u201cYour point is made, Ser Slayer. If you are certain you need no help\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere will be no Goblins.\u201d<\/p>\n The voice was flat. Talia saw Ser Lorell nod. The older [Knight] looked at the Goblin Slayer. And there was some sympathy there. It was an easy story, after all.<\/p>\n \u201cIn that case, we shall return. We would extend the hospitality of the road to you, Ser Slayer. At least rest a day before tackling this tribe. Unless they\u2019ll move?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. The Ogres will make them stay.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen come with us.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia reached for the Goblin Slayer. He moved back, and she lowered her hand. She stared at the dark visor and inclined her head slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cIt would be an honor, Ser Slayer. Let us at share our company and speak to Ser Eldein\u2019s valor a moment longer.\u201d<\/p>\n She thought he\u2019d refuse. But at Ser Eldein\u2019s name, the Goblin Slayer turned to look at the grave. Then he nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cFine.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The company was subdued at first, returning the way they\u2019d come through the forest. They found their mounts and the Goblin Slayer was offered Ser Eldein\u2019s mount. He refused, and instead trotted along. It didn\u2019t matter; the Order of Seasons kept their pace slow.<\/p>\n They mourned Ser Eldein. But he had died well. So instead they praised them, taking a lesson from earlier that week. And many were interested in the Goblin Slayer. Talia walked alongside him as he kept pace with the horses. Dame Chise wanted to know what the magical axe was. He let her inspect it, and the woman nodded in appreciation.<\/p>\n \u201cJade and gold. Or perhaps truegold. The kind the Dwarves and master [Smiths] can shape. I think the enchantment is a light form construct. Brittle, yet sharp as any steel. Worthy of any full [Knight] of the Summer. A fine weapon, Ser Slayer. Where did you come by it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI took it from a Hobgoblin.\u201d<\/p>\n Of course. The [Knights] nodded. Ser Thornst eyed the blade.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy did you not use it before? I grant you that it would have endangered those around you had you swung it carelessly.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSneak attack. Advantage.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia snorted. She lifted a hand in apology as the metal helmet looked at her.<\/p>\n \u201cIs everything for advantage in combat, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n He thought about the question seriously.<\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons returned to the nearest inhabited village they\u2019d passed through this morning. There was only a small inn, but the people turned out to hear that the Ogres were dead. And they feasted the [Knights] accordingly. Talia tried to smile as they gathered around, thanking her comrades. But her heart ached for Ser Eldein.<\/p>\n The one figure who stood alone was the Goblin Slayer. But the villagers knew him too. A dog barked furiously at the armored figure before the owner pulled him away.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry about that, Ser Slayer! So you got the Goblins and<\/em> the Ogres? We\u2019ll send word to the Adventurer\u2019s Guild if we get a Runner sooner than you leave!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSome Goblins are left. I will finish them. Tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer\u2019s voice was level. Talia eyed the angry dog. The man, the [Innkeeper], apologized.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry. Bessy smells the Goblins.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPerhaps a bath is in order then?\u201d<\/p>\n The other [Knights] looked anxious at the thought. They had cleaned off the worst of the gore, but their armor stank<\/em> from sweat, entrails, and so on. The Goblin Slayer was the worst of the lot. The [Innkeeper] was only too happy to offer them baths. Talia accepted happily, but the Goblin Slayer shook his head. He grabbed a bucket and doused himself twice before beginning to rub dirt into his armor.<\/p>\n \u201cWill you not drink with us, Ser Slayer? We will be toasting Ser Eldein into the night.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. Sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Knights] sighed, but only Talia was truly disappointed. They began to tell the story of the battle and Ser Eldein to the villagers, and Talia and the female [Knights] followed the [Innkeeper]\u2019s wife to the outdoor baths that were the pride of the inn.<\/p>\n \u201cThat Goblin Slayer is a truly odd character. But skilled. I wonder if he was a [Knight]. He spoke of loss. I think he is to Goblins what he claimed the survivors might become to Humans.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise spoke slowly as she shed her armor. Talia nodded. Dame Ingrela shook her head, eying the hot water with anticipation. She looked at the other female [Knights].<\/p>\n \u201cAn odd sort. But valiant. We might have taken more wounds from that club. As it was, we have lost yet another of our Order. Ser Eldein.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cToo many. And yet, this is what it means to be a [Knight].\u201d<\/p>\n Talia murmured. Her companions agreed. They lowered themselves into the hot water after scrubbing themselves with cold buckets, luxuriating in the steam. Talia looked skywards. Night had fallen.<\/p>\n \u201cI hope Ser Slayer truly can dispose of a Goblin tribe alone, though.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWith that axe and his skills? He might. But in truth, Dame Talia, I am relieved he did not allow Ser Lorell to order us to aid him. He may well fight any number of their warriors, but in the end, he will kill each Goblin in that tribe. And I have done so. They are children and mothers. It is not chivalry to do that.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise\u2019s face was troubled. Talia looked at her and nodded slowly. She had never participated in an extermination of a Goblin tribe. Ingrela looked like she might object, but at last, she sank into the hot water up to her lips. Talia looked to the night sky and imagined the armored figure prowling the darkness. She thought of the intensity of his tone and shuddered.<\/p>\n \u201cSomeone must. But what hate drove him to be so, I wonder?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOne can only wonder, Dame Talia. One can only wonder.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The Goblins of the Rolling Rocks tribe knew death was coming when the remains of the warriors who had gone with the Ogres returned. The Ogres who ruled over their tribe had been killed. Their Chief defeated. Not just him; the other Ogre clans who inhabited parts of the hills had been broken by the Humans too.<\/p>\n Broken, but not destroyed. The Ogre clans were in disarray as few of their warriors returned, withdrawing further into the foothills. But they had some plunder and loot. And so they withdrew, fearing the adventurers that would surely come. And to buy them time they ordered their slaves to remain.<\/p>\n The Goblins. They were a fine bulwark against pursuers. The Rolling Rocks tribe had fought alongside the Ogres against adventurers, died by the hundreds. Now two hundred remained. They would have fled, but the new Ogre Chief promised to kill and eat them if even one ran. So they waited.<\/p>\n They had a good spot in the hills. A rocky pass where they could fight from. The Goblins were waiting. They knew the [Knights] had killed the Ogres. They were waiting for them. When they came, the warriors would fight and the rest would flee. Into caves. If they hid really well, some might survive and the Ogres wouldn\u2019t kill all of them.<\/p>\n That was the only hope they had. And it was so little. But they clung to that. Because what else did they have?<\/p>\n Nothing.<\/em> The Goblins\u2014not a single Hob existed in the Rolling Rocks tribe\u2014waited. They could smell nothing, though the wind was blowing their way. But they knew something was coming through the forest.<\/p>\n They had seen him. A [Knight]. Or\u2014no, his armor was too dirty. And he moved more stealthily than anyone but the [Rogue] adventurers. The Goblins shuddered, holding their crude weapons.<\/p>\n Here came death. But they waited. He was just one. They could hide in the caves. Hold him off? Maybe. But then they saw a flicker in the forests. The Goblins with arrows aimed. One loosed, and an arrow fell short.<\/p>\n A shadow moved among the trees. The Goblin tribe froze. And from the darkness, as if he had been born of it, the Goblin Slayer emerged.<\/p>\n They knew his name.<\/em> Oh yes. Goblins had heard it. An adventurer who killed Goblins. Who left none behind. They shuddered. Some screamed. He walked out of the darkness, the shadows clinging to him. Only blackness lay behind his visor. He stopped, out of bow-range and stared up at the Goblins. They waited.<\/p>\n Death<\/em>. His gaze pierced them. They waited longer, forgetting to breathe. One Goblin fell off her rock, unconscious. The Goblin Slayer took a step. The Goblins raised their weapons. He looked up at them.<\/p>\n And then he took off his helmet. It came off slowly, and the Goblins stared. They stared. And then they screamed.<\/em> Goblins dropped their weapons. Some fell to their knees. They stared at the figure who stood below them. They screamed, a shriek so loud it tore the sky. Not of fear. But of another emotion.<\/p>\n Slowly, the Goblin Slayer looked up at the Goblins. Worn, desperate. Afraid. His people. His crimson eyes burned with tears. Rabbiteater raised his gauntleted hand. And the Goblins of the Rolling Rocks tribe flooded down the hill. If he was a traitor, let them die. But let them see! They reached for him. Looking at his armor. His face.<\/p>\n A Hobgoblin.<\/em> Rabbiteater knelt. And his eyes burned crimson. And he looked at them.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n He spoke in their tongue. He had killed some of them. But the Ogres enslaving them were dead. The Goblins stared at him. Reaching out to touch his face, his head, his ears. To make sure he was real.<\/p>\n This was the true Goblin Slayer. He spoke to them. He bowed his head. And then he pointed. The Goblins listened, their eyes wide. They turned their heads, scrambling up rocks to see. Looking south and west. Towards distant mountains.<\/p>\n The High Passes. And then they came back down, looking at Rabbiteater. He spoke. And that night, the Rolling Rocks tribe vanished. When Talia and the [Knights] awoke the next day, Rabbiteater walked into the village with the helmet locked into place on his head. And he showed them Goblin ears. And he listened to them cheer his name.<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer.<\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer was in the inn the next day, which surprised everyone, Talia included. But she was glad to see him. He had arrived past dawn, apparently. But if he\u2019d smelled of blood or been covered in it, he\u2019d washed himself.<\/p>\n He smelled a bit better by day, which was a relief for everyone. Still, the odor of blood, soil, and that faint bestial smell of Goblin<\/em> clung to him. Still, the Goblin Slayer\u2019s armor was clean, or at least not covered in soil. The [Knights] welcomed him as the [Innkeeper] offered him a drink.<\/p>\n With a straw. The Goblin Slayer had refused to take his helmet off. When asked, he had refused politely.<\/p>\n \u201cI have sworn a vow. And my face is not\u2026pleasant.\u201d<\/p>\n Rabbiteater lied as he sipped from his drink. Both excuses usually worked. The Order of Seasons nodded slowly. They were impressed by vows. They seemed to think he\u2019d taken one, or that he was extremely hideous from his scars. Both were sort of true. Rabbiteater had vowed never to take his helmet off in a Human town. And he didn\u2019t want to find out what they\u2019d do if they saw his green skin.<\/p>\n \u201cYou finished the Goblin tribe in a single night, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Summer Knight], Dame Talia, looked at Rabbiteater. He shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cYes. Here.\u201d<\/p>\n He showed her a bunch of ears. He had them in a bag of holding. She stared at them, looking a bit nauseous. Another [Knight], Ser Lorell, shook his head. But they accepted that. They always did, and no one ever bothered asking how old<\/em> the ears were. Humans were blind as rocks.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cHe must be a [Hunter], or a specialist in fighting Goblins. As some are experts in fighting monsters, or certain enemies.\u201d<\/p>\n Dame Chise whispered to Talia as the Goblin Slayer politely ignored requests from the villagers wanting to know how the Goblins had met their end. Talia nodded. Even in the inn, the Goblin Slayer was fascinating. He was so silent. Mysterious. Which attracted both men and women, wanting to know who the person behind the helmet was. She turned in her seat and addressed Ser Lorell.<\/p>\n \u201cAre we bound north, Ser Lorell?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn time. I\u2019m in no hurry to rush. Let us spend a day in contemplation of Ser Eldein.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Summer Knight] was grave and the company nodded. Talia closed her eyes as she thought of Ser Eldein. She would and had mourned him. But then she looked at the Goblin Slayer. There was time enough to speak to him as well.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n For Rabbiteater\u2019s part, words were hard. He\u2019d learned a lot, but he was still economical with them. He was no\u2026Numbtongue. The Hobgoblin\u2019s heart clenched at the thought of his friend. Numbtongue, Shorthilt, Headscratcher\u2026all gone. It had been months since that day. But he remembered. He never forgot.<\/p>\n In time, he rose from the table and left the inn. The [Knights] were taking their ease in the village this morning after their battle with the Ogres. Rabbiteater kept glancing at them through his helmet. They were good<\/em> fighters. And they\u2019d used auras. But for the one [Knight], they\u2019d taken apart a group of Ogre warriors and Goblins without losses. That was hard to do.<\/p>\n He was wary of them, though, so he did business instead. The [Innkeeper] beamed at him as he counted coins into the man\u2019s palm. Silver. Rabbiteater had learned the value of coins too.<\/p>\n \u201cYour generosity, Ser Goblin Slayer, is too much! Please, I can\u2019t accept any coin. You\u2019ve rid us of Ogres and Goblins both. Please\u2014it\u2019s all on the house!\u201d<\/p>\n Rabbiteater stared at the man. They did this all the time, when he told them the Goblins were \u2018dead\u2019. He hesitated, then spoke in a low voice, straining it to sound more \u2018Human\u2019.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n That was it. He didn\u2019t trust himself to say more, but the Humans never asked for a longer conversation. The [Innkeeper] backed away, smiling, telling Rabbiteater he was welcome back anytime!<\/p>\n Rabbiteater nodded. He turned, ignored the angry dog\u2014they hated his guts since they knew what he was\u2014and walked out of the inn. He had work to do. He didn\u2019t stay in Human settlements long, just enough to do what had to be done. Rabbiteater only wished the female [Knight], Talia would leave him alone.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Talia found the Goblin Slayer at the local smithy. He was perusing the local steel. It wasn\u2019t guaranteed that you could find steel\u2014let alone high-quality stuff, so Talia understood his interest. He was tapping on each bar of steel as the impatient [Blacksmith] held his distance\u2014and his nose.<\/p>\n \u201cWill you have any of it, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. Four. And iron.\u201d<\/p>\n The armored man pointed. His words were short, but the [Smith] nodded and packed up the ingots. The Goblin Slayer paid in gold. Fascinated, Talia watched.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you fashioning more traps and your own arms, Ser Slayer?\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer looked up. He paused. Talia wasn\u2019t the only person interested in him. The [Smith] looked sideways as he got out the Goblin Slayer\u2019s second order; Talia saw a bunch of interesting items. Screws, hinges\u2014a lot of it looked like household goods!<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Yes. I make traps. It\u2019s all\u2026useful.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia couldn\u2019t imagine how some of the items worked, but she thought about the net he\u2019d used and agreed.<\/p>\n \u201cThat is not how the Order of Seasons fights, is it, Dame Ingrela?\u201d<\/p>\n The young [Spring Knight] shook her head. She\u2019d come after Talia. She eyed the Goblin Slayer.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, but [Hunters] use such traps. Tell me, Ser Slayer. I have been thinking on it\u2014why do you use a plain shortsword instead of enchanted weapons? Surely your axe would be a far better weapon for general use than plain steel.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer paused. Inside his helmet, Rabbiteater bit his tongue. The reason he didn\u2019t use his axe was because it shouldn\u2019t belong to him<\/em>. If anyone remembered it from the battle with the Goblin Lord\u2014he saw the interested faces around him and fumbled for an answer.<\/p>\n \u201cEnchanted weapons are\u2026dangerous. For hunting Goblins.\u201d<\/p>\n Rabbiteater lied desperately. He saw Talia\u2019s brows shoot up.<\/p>\n \u201cReally?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Yes?\u201d<\/p>\n Talia stared at the Goblin Slayer. She\u2019d never heard that! But then Ingrela made a sound and Talia, the [Blacksmith], and Rabbiteater looked at her. She nodded slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cI can understand it. Consider, Dame Talia, what might happen if he were to wear such a weapon openly. It would give his opponent information\u2014and allow for detection in battle. Magical armor likewise.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOf course! I hadn\u2019t considered it. Apologies, Ser Slayer. We of the Order of Seasons do not generally employ stealth. Much less my Season of Summer. I imagine you must answer such questions constantly.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia looked apologetically at Rabbiteater. The Hobgoblin stared at the [Knights]. Really? <\/em>But even the [Blacksmith] was nodding as another [Knight] chimed in, stroking his beard. Ser Thornst was pretending to study a blade as he glanced sidelong at the Goblin Slayer.<\/p>\n \u201cI have heard it said that Knight-Commander Calirn uses naught but ordinary steel at times to give himself a challenge that he might level up. There are reasons for it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight. Thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n The \u2018Goblin Slayer\u2019 was sweating bullets. He collected his gear from the [Blacksmith] and hurried off. The [Knights] watched him go\u2014this time to a [Seamstress] waiting for him with a bundle of cloth. Talia watched him taking small pads and shoving them into a bag of holding.<\/p>\n \u201cBandages, mayhap? He seems determined not to rely on potions.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAfter seeing the Ogre with the Evercut Arrows, I find that prudent. He\u2019s clearly experienced in fighting Goblins.\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Thornst nodded. It was Ingrela who sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd yet, I cannot help but feel for him. Did you understand the meaning in his comments about enchanted weapons, Talia, Thornst?\u201d<\/p>\n They looked at her. Ingrela explained.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is true enchanted gear alerts a wary foe. But most of all? When he falls, each item Ser Slayer bears will be a weapon the Goblins can use against their next victims. \u2018Tis a measure of resolve. Bravery, I call it.\u201d<\/p>\n Thornst sobered. Talia looked back at the Goblin Slayer, struck again. She murmured.<\/p>\n \u201cIndeed. He has put his life into his cause. No wonder he is so successful at his trade.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Blacksmith] nodded knowingly.<\/p>\n \u201cNot just that, Ser and Lady [Knights]. He\u2019s become famous in all sorts of places. Where he goes, Goblins die like flies. Everyone\u2019s talking of him. We already knew who he was when he walked into our village. A lone adventurer, fighting back the Goblins. Damn good thing after the Goblin Lord. It\u2019s an honor to help him, for all he stinks of, well, Goblin.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons agreed, watching the Goblin Slayer solemnly. They respected those who followed a cause similar to their own.<\/p>\n Rabbiteater, not able to hear any of it, tried to resist the urge to scratch his groin. The armor got stuffy. He really wished they would stop following him around.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The Order of Seasons insisted on accompanying the Goblin Slayer to the next town. It was north of here, and it was on their way. The Goblin Slayer walked, but quickly, so the Order of Seasons kept him company. He was still taciturn, but by now he seemed to have resigned himself to their company, especially Talia\u2019s. She was trying to understand him, or at least, learn more about him.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2018Goblin Slayer\u2019 is a poor nickname. Have you any name you would be willing to share? Or is your identity sworn to secrecy as much as your visage?\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer paused.<\/p>\n \u201cMy name doesn\u2019t matter.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSurely it does! A [Knight]\u2019s deeds should be cried out.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not a [Knight]. Killing Goblins is not\u2026amazing.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cEven so, you seem more [Knight] than mere adventurer. Have you had training? You fight with more expertise than a self-taught warrior.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer shrugged uncomfortably.<\/p>\n \u201cI have trained.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh, I knew it. With your skill at arms, you might well enlist in an order, Ser Slayer! The life of an adventurer may suit you in your quest, but the backing of an order would do you no harm.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer could only shrug again in reply.<\/p>\n \u201cI work alone. People die around me. Friends.\u201d<\/p>\n There was a heavy note in his voice. And that spoke of truth. Talia looked at Thornst and the man shut his mouth. But even Ser Lorell was nodding covertly. More pieces of the puzzle. Talia was wondering what ill-fated battle had led the Goblin Slayer to his quest. Perhaps he had fought at Liscor? Or been prey to the Goblin Lord\u2019s army. Or maybe his desire stemmed from an even older conflict. Velan the Kind, perhaps?<\/p>\n They reached a larger town, and Talia got to see the Goblin Slayer enter the Adventurer\u2019s Guild. The [Receptionist] at the desk knew him. The man stared as he poured Goblin ears onto the desk.<\/p>\n \u201cEnough! Ser Slayer, enough! We don\u2019t need to count\u2014dead gods, you wiped out another tribe? We could as easily use a [Detect Truth] spell!\u201d<\/p>\n The man at the desk looked at the Goblin Slayer, slightly appalled, but mostly awed. The other adventurers, Silver-ranks and Bronze, gave the Goblin Slayer their own stares and respectful nods. The Goblin Slayer paused.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is proof.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd so it is, ser. I can collect your bounty after I er, count\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n The man helplessly waved for help. A few adventurers got up. One of them, a Silver-rank [Fencer], leaned against the counter.<\/p>\n \u201cYou took them out yourself, Slayer? Dead gods, and I thought my team was good!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI had help.\u201d<\/p>\n The Goblin Slayer looked back at Talia and some of the [Knights]. The adventurers exclaimed when they saw the Order of Seasons, and they were impressed as the [Knights] introduced themselves. A bit wary, even; some of the Silver-rank teams looked embarrassed as they eyed the shining armor the [Knights] wore.<\/p>\n \u201cYou know the Goblin Slayer, Sir Mells?\u201d<\/p>\n The young [Fencer] flushed.<\/p>\n \u201cJust Mells. I\u2019ve seen him about. I\u2019d like to say he\u2019s a friend, but he\u2019s driven. He comes and goes; in truth, my team saw him in the south. He walked into the guild one day and dropped a huge bag of Goblin ears! That\u2019s all he hunts, practically. Did you say you saw him fight? He\u2019s never partnered up with anyone so far.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIndeed. He was a fierce warrior in battle. We wondered if he\u2019d do us the honor of accompanying us north.\u201d<\/p>\n Talia\u2019s voice made the Goblin Slayer look up. He stared at her as she explained.<\/p>\n \u201cWe ride north, towards First Landing, or perhaps to any port if chivalry demands we travel elsewhere. We are returning to our headquarters, in Terandria. But your cause is just, Ser Slayer, and we would speak to you of chivalry.\u201d<\/p>\n Her fellow [Knights] were nodding. The Goblin Slayer spoke to them. He could only hesitate and shake his head.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t work in teams.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cConsider it, Ser Slayer! We travel onwards at speed come tomorrow. But your talents are wasted as a mere\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Ser Lorell caught himself, looking around. He coughed.<\/p>\n \u201cThat is to say, your task is a noble one. And the path of a [Knight] is one of worth! Let us at least speak to you of valor.\u201d<\/p>\n He waited. Talia held her breath. But all the armored figure did was nod.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll think about it. Tell you tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n She hoped he\u2019d agree as they rested that night in the town. He was fascinating to her.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n That night, Rabbiteater left the town through the main gates. He didn\u2019t need to skulk. The [Sentries] waved him past after one glance. One of them called out good-naturedly.<\/p>\n \u201cPatrolling, Goblin Slayer? We\u2019ve got our eyes on the horizon!\u201d<\/p>\n Rabbiteater raised a silent hand in reply. One of the other [Sentries] nudged his friend.<\/p>\n \u201cLet him go. He always does this. Can\u2019t be too cautious.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin walked out of the town. And then he began running when he was out of sight of the walls. It took him nearly two hours to reach the meeting spot, and when he did, he was late.<\/p>\n Last night, he\u2019d found the Rolling Rocks tribe. They\u2019d left without a trace, which had fooled the Humans, but they could hardly make the long trek south without help. Which was why they\u2019d been found by the second Hobgoblin after Rabbiteater had signaled him. He was waiting for Rabbiteater, along with another companion.<\/p>\n They were both mounted. Rabbiteater paused as he heard the growl<\/em>, but the Carn Wolves sat patiently, recognizing him as a Redfang. Badarrow slid to the ground where he\u2019d been keeping watch; he\u2019d spotted Rabbiteater from far away.<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin [Sniper] didn\u2019t smile as he saw Rabbiteater. Like his friend, he hadn\u2019t smiled since\u2026that day. But he grabbed Rabbiteater\u2019s arm, squeezing the [Champion]\u2019s arm. Rabbiteater, the [Champion]. To this day, the Hobgoblin felt he didn\u2019t deserve the class.<\/p>\n A [Champion] would not have let his friends die. But he had a job. So Rabbiteater followed Badarrow to the small camp. There was no fire; Goblins weren\u2019t that obvious. A second figure stood up. She was less familiar to Rabbiteater for all they\u2019d gotten to know each other. He just nodded at Snapjaw as she crunched some bone in her mouth.<\/p>\n \u201cRolling Rocks tribe safe?<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSafe. Good camp that way. Are quiet. Snapjaw lead south. Ogres dead?<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n Badarrow grunted as he offered Rabbiteater some raw meat. Rabbiteater nodded, accepting the food. It was hard to eat, even in private. He tore off a bite, chewed, swallowed.<\/p>\n \u201cDead. [Knights] helped.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPeh. We could kill. And Rolling Rocks tribe.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n Snapjaw spat. The plan had been for her and Badarrow to back Rabbiteater up and rally the Goblins to overthrow the Ogres. Rabbiteater just shrugged. He traced the ground with a metal foot.<\/p>\n \u201c