He was known to some as the fifth most powerful [Lord] in the world. If you were doing a ranking, that was. If you looked at the most dangerous, most influential, and most high-level [Lords] the world over and made a list of the top five, he always appeared on the list.<\/p>\n
Usually exactly in spot five, no matter your criteria. Because Lord Hayvon Operland did not stand out like, say, the [Lord of the Dance] of Terandria, Lord Belchaus Meron, who topped the lists for both eligibility and strategic genius. Lord Belchaus had held Terandria against foreign fleets for over a decade and his presence alone ensured that the coast where his fleets patrolled remained safe harbors even in wars.<\/p>\n
Similarly, Lord Hayvon was rich beyond most mortal dreams. But not as rich as Yazdil Achakhei, the serpentine Emir of Chandrar, whose wealth wasn\u2019t just beyond most mortal dreams, but immortal ones. He wasn\u2019t the charismatic [Slave Lord] who was considered among the most intelligent men\u2014or males\u2014in the world. Cunning and intelligent.<\/p>\n
No, fifth place was for Lord Hayvon. He was no Tyrion Veltras, rumored to be the best [Lord] in personal combat, or Lord Imor Seagrass, the self-styled [Stormlord Captain] who ruled over much of the sea with his vast armies that ensured trade. Lord Hayvon was simply a [Lord] in service to the Blighted King of Rhir.<\/p>\n
Fifth. Largely boring compared to the rest. He had no unique quirks people liked to talk about. No one would remember his name outside of Rhir if you spoke it in most circles.<\/p>\n
And yet\u2014fifth. Fifth most important, and of Rhir, the greatest of the nobility. What did such numbers mean? If one were to tell Lord Hayvon he was fifth-best, he wouldn\u2019t bat an eye. He didn\u2019t care about such things.<\/p>\n
What Lord Hayvon did care about was the sight from his personal mansion\u2019s balcony. It overlooked a series of fields, extremely close to his home. Not just close in that \u2018you could see it if you really squinted\u2019, but close<\/em> as in if you hopped past the tiny garden, you\u2019d be knee-deep in wheat.<\/p>\n The [Farmers] grew their crops extremely close to the Operland mansion, where most of the nobility would prefer them out of sight and out of mind. But Lord Hayvon did not believe in wasting space. Rhir had nothing to waste and vanity was an extravagance he could not afford. He spoke absently as he watched the sun dawning over the fields. Men and women were already hard at work, cutting down a spring harvest and replanting quickly for multiple summer harvests.<\/p>\n \u201cYou know, I was something of a [Historian] in my youth. I had an endless passion for literature. I even gained the class. When my father found out, he beat me within an inch of my life. My mother would have done the same if she\u2019d been first, I have no doubt. I would too had I the ability to reach back in time and strike myself. Sometimes I wonder if Nereshal might indulge me\u2014but you understand my point. It is a waste of a class, for a [Lord] of Rhir.\u201d<\/p>\n No one responded. But Hayvon had an audience. Three people stood on the balcony behind him. The [Lord] went on, watching a [Farmer] with a scythe clear a huge radius with a single swing.<\/p>\n \u201cThese days, I don\u2019t level in the class. It was removed by His Majesty, and if I do indulge my love of history and understanding the world, it is in my [Lord] class. All in service of Rhir. Still, betimes I think that if I had not been born into my position, I might have made a fairly decent [Historian], or perhaps a [Poet]. I have little time for such pursuits. But I do keep up with worldly affairs.\u201d<\/p>\n Silence. Hayvon paused. Two people were standing behind him. One was seated.<\/p>\n \u201cYesterday, Rhir\u2019s courts received word that a Silver-rank team had earned the title of Hell\u2019s Wardens. They slew an Adult Creler in battle. A Silver-ranked team. Of course, His Majesty celebrated the news. I myself broke open a fine vintage. Can you imagine? An Adult felled by Silver-rank adventurers?\u201d<\/p>\n Someone moved slightly. Lord Hayvon nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cA bit of history. You may be aware, High Magus, that the Crelers were a product of the blight that afflicts Rhir. Our foul continent has been settled, lost, retaken\u2014many times. The last time it was lost, the world believed it was better to abandon Rhir to the blight rather than attempt to retake it. That was about seven thousand years ago.\u201d<\/p>\n He paused. Again, no one responded. Lord Hayvon sighed, his eyes going north and west, his voice growing dark. In the distance lay one of Rhir\u2019s walls. The second wall of Rhir that few enemies had ever crossed. Four sheltered the Blighted Kingdom from invasion, and a fifth was being built. Attempting to be built. Hayvon went on.<\/p>\n \u201cThe world left Rhir\u2019s blight alone, cursing this land, this hell to isolation. And for that, it paid the price a thousand fold over when the Crelers emerged. For eight hundred years<\/em> we fought the Creler Wars, before we drove them back. They devoured entire nations, reduced the world to a dark age. But when the Crelers were defeated, it was in a time of legends.\u201d<\/p>\n Lord Hayvon half-turned his head. He smiled, clenching his fist.<\/p>\n \u201cImagine it. For all the Crelers destroyed, legends rose to fight them. Over eight hundred Silver-rank teams killed Adult Crelers during the Creler Wars. What we think of as Gold-rank Adventurers were commonplace. People leveled like they breathed. There were documented cases of individuals passing Level 80. <\/em>One of them was the first Blighted King, who settled Rhir and created our kingdom that such a threat might never come to pass again.\u201d<\/p>\n He waited, but the seated figure made no sound. Lord Hayvon sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cSo. That brings me to my point. Do you know, High Magus, what impresses me after all this time? Slaying an Adult Creler, certainly. But wheat. Growing wheat impresses me.\u201d<\/p>\n He gestured at the [Farmers] below.<\/p>\n \u201cYou may argue the point. But growing wheat is a task. You cannot do it overnight, even with all the Skills in the world. In a week? If you had magic, Skills, everything at your side, perhaps. But growing plants is far more difficult than, say, flying. <\/em>It is not difficult to fly. Anyone may fly. Like so.\u201d<\/p>\n So saying, Lord Hayvon stepped up and into the air. His feet left the ground. And his boots shone. Lord Hayvon\u2019s Pegasus boots, made of ancient hide from the very animals and decorated with feathers, carried him up into the air. He soared higher with each step, then walked forwards.<\/p>\n He took a short lap of eighteen steps, walking off the open balcony and into the tiny garden that was his nod to decadence, and back around to step neatly onto the stone railing. He spread his arms, looking at his audience. The two [Mages] standing next to her didn\u2019t move. And the seated High Magus never spoke. Hayvon paused, then stepped off the railing and landed lightly on the ground. He went on.<\/p>\n \u201cFlying is simple. As simple as buying the right artifact, or magic spell. But wheat? Corn? It takes the highest-level [Mages] to create magical food, and that is a poor substitute for the real thing. A man may starve on food born of a cornucopia artifact if he eats only of it each day. He can literally burn more energy than the food grants him. I have seen it.\u201d<\/p>\n He shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cThere are five known artifacts in this world capable of creating food on par with what can be grown in the soil. Five. And a Level 30 [Farmer] can out-produce all but one of them. Think on that, High Magus. The food you and I grow fat on cannot be conjured, and in times of famine, it cannot be bought.\u201d<\/p>\n He waited. She stared at him, sweat rolling down her forehead, although it wasn\u2019t warm yet. Lord Hayvon turned back to the fields.<\/p>\n \u201cI have no end of respect for the [Farmers] in my domain. No\u2014in all of Rhir. For not only must they grow food in this blighted soil of our continent, they must safeguard it from plague, raids, even monsters and insects sent by the Demons. They grow food in hell, to keep the kingdom safe. Thus, I think of them as valiant as [Soldiers], in their own way. Emisa?\u201d<\/p>\n One of the two [Mages] standing next to the High Magus lifted a bowl. The High Magus flinched as Lord Hayvon turned back. He plucked a small, wriggling shape from the bowl and regarded it with disgust. It was a tiny caterpillar, hairy, small\u2014with an oversized head. It had a very large mouth, tiny nubs of legs. It wasn\u2019t a cute caterpillar. Lord Hayvon showed it to the High Magus.<\/p>\n \u201cThese are one of the plagues the Demon King has sent against us, in ages past. One of his Deathless created it. The Vorepiller is a cowardly bug. It flees everything, and it does not evolve. But it reproduces faster than any species and it is highly inedible, such that other insects and birds will not eat it. The Demon King unleashed them in our fields and Rhir nearly starved during that decade, oh, around three thousand five hundred and two years back. 2118 Zekol, by Rhir\u2019s calendars. Have you ever seen one, High Magus? Or have you never seen our fields battling these infestations?\u201d<\/p>\n She said not a word. Lord Hayvon dropped the Vorepillar on her hands. It joined the hundreds of tiny caterpillars squirming over her hands. Her arms. Eating the High Magus alive.<\/em> Lord Hayvon stared down at the insects chewing into her flesh. They had torn away the first layer of skin. And they were burrowing deeper, eating\u2026everything.<\/p>\n \u201cHealing potion.\u201d<\/p>\n The mass of Vorepillars fled as one of the two [Mages] silently brushed them away and applied a healing potion to the exposed flesh. It regrew in an instant, and the hungry caterpillars fell back on the spot, devouring the woman anew. Hayvon looked at High Magus Laisa. She was sweating, her face white, but her lips were sealed. Lord Hayvon patiently studied her.<\/p>\n \u201cYou will not speak? High Magus Arneit confessed many things long before this point.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have nothing to say. Lord Operland.\u201d<\/p>\n High Magus Laisa spoke through pale lips. Lord Hayvon shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cYou stand accused of high treason against the Blighted Kingdom, High Magus. You and six others! Six<\/em> of our High Magi! Tell me why, at least.\u201d<\/p>\n The woman opened her mouth. She bit back a sound of pain and snarled.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy?<\/em> You need to ask, Hayvon? <\/em>Performing the ritual again is madness! Sheer madness! One million lives! For a fraction of what? Children? <\/em>The Blighted King has lost his mind.\u201d<\/p>\n The two [Mages] standing next to Laisa moved. One nearly struck her, but Lord Hayvon shook his head. He stared down at Laisa and then turned away. Back to the fields. He spoke absently.<\/p>\n \u201cDo you know what happens when the Demon King marshals his forces, High Magus Laisa? It looks nothing like the stalemate of today. And you have fought on our front lines. But when his Deathless take to the field, armies die.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo you don\u2019t care that a million unborn children will die?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Laisa snapped. Lord Hayvon rounded on her. And heat entered his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cI care.<\/em> Do you think I would not? Do you think His Majesty does not?<\/em> But he and I would sacrifice anything to end this war. To finally drive the Demons back! <\/em>Wouldn\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot like this. Are we Demons? I thought His Majesty was better than the Demon King, Lord Operland.\u201d<\/p>\n The High Magus glared at him. Lord Hayvon drew breath to respond as his hand twitched towards his side. Someone opened the doors to the balcony.<\/p>\n \u201cLord Operland? The guests have arrived.\u201d<\/p>\n Lord Hayvon paused and addressed the servant.<\/p>\n \u201cHave Sir Richard and his company delay our ride a moment longer. I shall be with them shortly. What of Sir Tom?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRetired to his quarters already, Lord Operland.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI see. Leave him be unless he requests anything.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Lord] waved the servant away. Then he turned to the High Magus.<\/p>\n \u201cHigh Magus Laisa, you would have the Blighted Kingdom sheathe its sword rather than attack the enemy. I have a son and a young daughter. I know<\/em> what the ritual entails. But I would use it. I have ordered tens of thousands of men and women to their deaths with a single word. No doubt, I have overseen the death of a million souls at least.\u201d<\/p>\n Lord Hayvon stared at his hands. Scarred from battle. He shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat are a million lives unborn compared to the horrors the Demons will inflict on us? What makes this the step too far, High Magus?\u201d<\/p>\n She said nothing. Laisa\u2019s lips were compressed as the worms ate deeper once more. Hayvon paused. He leaned forwards, and the cowardly Vorepillars fled even his shadow.<\/p>\n \u201cTell me where the other [Mages] are hiding. And what they fear more than Demons that they have rebelled against the kingdom.\u201d<\/p>\n For a moment, the High Magus seemed like she might keep silent. But pain\u2014or anger\u2014loosened her tongue. She shouted back.<\/p>\n \u201cWe fear tearing the world apart. We fear a spell that should not work! Magic that has no origin and rips a hole in a void we cannot even sense! <\/em>We fear\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She paused, breathing hard. Her eyes went to the door, and she whispered.<\/p>\n \u201cWe fear that child\u2019s madness. That [Clown]. And another world filled with weapons that can sunder islands! We fear the Blighted King\u2019s ambitions, Lord Operland.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou have lost faith in him?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe is consumed. Impaired! Nereshal should have never let him live so long! He will lead the Blighted Kingdom to death! You must convince him to change his mind! The ritual\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Lord Hayvon turned away. He waved a hand, and one of the [Mages] gagged Laisa with a spell. Hayvon shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cDead gods. The Fool\u2019s madness is spreading. His Majesty is the finest ruler Rhir has had in centuries\u2014generations, Laisa. And this ritual is no act of desperation or foolishness. It is a chance.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He pointed back at her.<\/p>\n \u201cYou are only delaying the inevitable. Your fellow [Mages] will not leave Rhir.\u201d<\/p>\n He nodded at the [Mages].<\/p>\n \u201cQuestion High Magus Laisa under truth spell. If she refuses to answer\u2014leave her in the care of an [Interrogator]. One will have arrived from the capital.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Lord Operland.\u201d<\/p>\n They left. Lord Hayvon didn\u2019t say anything more. He just watched the [Farmers] at work. In time, his eyes fell on the one with the scythe. An old man, well into his seventies. And yet, his body was hale. He cleared an entire field in minutes, his scythe clearing a far larger arc\u2014nearly three times what the instrument should reach\u2014with each swing.<\/p>\n \u201cHim.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLord?\u201d<\/p>\n A [Servant] reacted to Lord Hayvon\u2019s words. He pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cThat [Farmer] with the scythe. Inquire as to his health. His means. Let it be known that if he wishes it, he shall retire to the capital and live in comfort for the rest of his days. Or even further. He and his family will obtain passage to any city in the world, and they shall have gold for the rest of their days. I remember him as a boy. He has served Rhir for over five decades. If he wishes it, let him rest in this continent or any other.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, milord.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Servant] paused as Lord Operland raised a hand. Hayvon looked at the old [Farmer].<\/p>\n \u201cAnd if he wishes to stay\u2014take his name. And all of my estates shall break for three days of feasting after the spring harvest in his honor. It is a time of plenty, after all.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Lord Operland.\u201d<\/p>\n Lord Hayvon listened to the door close. Fifth best, yes. And all that entailed. His armies stretched beyond sight when he called them. His wealth was beyond mortal measure. He was one of the blades of the Blighted King. The fifth-most powerful [Lord] in the world.<\/p>\n \u201cFlying is so easy. But wheat is terribly difficult to grow. Far easier to gather a hundred thousand men than feed them.\u201d<\/p>\n It was a time of plenty. The fields of Operland were rich and bountiful. The [Lord] looked down on them. No plague of Vorepillars had struck them, no airborne attacks. No Demon raids\u2014Rhir bloomed for once. And yet\u2026he spoke softly.<\/p>\n \u201cLet the harvests grow golden,<\/em><\/p>\n And the fields burst with plenty,<\/em><\/p>\n Let the [Farmers] sharpen their scythes<\/em><\/p>\n And the bellies of old and young grow fat.<\/em><\/p>\n Let the world rejoice and lie replete for a moment,<\/em><\/p>\n And peace hang in the air,<\/em><\/p>\n But never let the war forges grow dark,<\/em><\/p>\n Or lay down the arms you bear.<\/em><\/p>\n For this age is but passing,<\/em><\/p>\n And peace remains a fleeting breeze,<\/em><\/p>\n Stoking the embers of strife,<\/em><\/p>\n War ever beckons, and soon<\/em><\/p>\n Smoke shall blot out the sun.<\/em><\/p>\n And arrows fall in place of rain, while<\/em><\/p>\n Demons stalk out of Rhir\u2019s blight. So be watchful;<\/em><\/p>\n Dark will come that night.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n He paused.<\/p>\n \u201cIt needs work.\u201d<\/p>\n Lord Hayvon turned away as a [Servant] found the old [Farmer]. The [Lord] turned, and his gaze went north again. He stared towards the blight, the land of Demons. And then he turned. The children from another world awaited. And there was much left to do. But surely\u2014he felt it in his breast.<\/p>\n Hope.<\/em> Lord Hayvon murmured as he walked away.<\/p>\n \u201cSomeday soon, Rhir will know true peace.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Daly had heard it said that some part of Baleros was always at war. And sometimes it seemed that way. Mercenary companies fought each other over every part of the rich continent. And the jungles were alive with monsters. Baleros had still more unsettled land than any other continent by far. It was the largest, the most unclaimed, the wildest still of all the continents.<\/p>\n And he hated it. He hated the way people died to monsters, how they killed each other so\u2014casually. He hated it, and loved the magic, the sights he could never dream of. He loved the fact that there was a world where mysteries still remained.<\/p>\n He would have been happy, if he was the only one here. But he wasn\u2019t. Daly sat in the conference room of the United Nations company. He was representing a concept from Earth. A dream that had never been fully realized there. And here\u2014well, there was some irony in it. Because the united nations of Earth, all that they had gathered, was small. Weak.<\/p>\n Young men and women sat in the chairs around the room. Ken, Luan, Paige, Aiko, Siri, Kirana, and lastly, most importantly, Geneva. The [Doctor] sat with drink in hand. A stiff one. Daly could have used it himself.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re sure it\u2019s real, Geneva?\u201d<\/p>\n Paige was speaking, looking shaken. Geneva took a long drink and regarded the paper again. She held it up and Ken saw the beautiful wax seal glittering in the light. Magic<\/em>. Magic wax. Who\u2019d have thought.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s real. I could get it tested, but I\u2019m pretty sure it\u2019s real.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLuan?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Expert Rower] shifted in his seat.<\/p>\n \u201cI told you all, I talked to the Minotaur, yeah? It\u2019s real. Trust me\u2014they can pay however much they want. The Minotaur had more gold than I\u2019ve ever seen in my life, and he was a student.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The company sitting around the table nodded. Daly was still in a bit of shock about how much gold Luan had brought back. Enough to solve the daily expenses of the United Nations company\u2026forever. Pretty much. Already, they\u2019d upgraded their headquarters, bought all the amenities Paige and Kirana wanted so much. Some of the people working hard jobs could quit and look for better ones. And Geneva\u2019s clinic was fully stocked.<\/p>\n The only thing Luan\u2019s gold couldn\u2019t buy was magical gear for the Bushrangers. The crossbow-wielding team was set up with leather armor, good steel\u2014but no magic. Even so, the money he\u2019d brought in was amazing.<\/p>\n And more was on offer. Aiko looked at Geneva. The young woman from Japan hesitated and raised her hand.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, this letter. Will you please explain it again, Geneva? I did not understand parts of it.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Doctor] paused, and someone else spoke for her. Okasha. The Selphid moved Geneva\u2019s lips, speaking in a different inflection. More friendly, deeper. Daly was used to it.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s an invitation to have Geneva demonstrate her techniques to the students in the academy at Elvallian, Aiko. The academy run by the Titan of Baleros. One of the most powerful people in the entire continent. He\u2019s offering her gold to do it. Lots of gold.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot that<\/em> much gold.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSays the City Runner who brought back a heaping bagful.\u201d<\/p>\n Luan grinned as Siri looked at him. Ken smiled too, but he was looking at the letter as Geneva passed it to him.<\/p>\n It had come through official channels, not from Venaz personally. The note was signed by someone called Peclir Im, and there was even a travel expenses fund that Geneva could call upon at the Merchant\u2019s Guild if she accepted. It was\u2026big.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is it. Isn\u2019t it? This is what we\u2019ve been waiting for. Geneva can show her medical techniques to the world. I mean\u2014this is huge. <\/em>Right? Why are we nervous?\u201d<\/p>\n Paige came out and said it. Everyone nodded, but they were disturbed. Siri murmured.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s the Forgotten Wing Company. One of the four Great Companies. It\u2019s\u2014well, it\u2019s big, Paige. When they go to war, it\u2019s like five nation\u2019s worth of armies fighting at once.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut they\u2019re not fighting.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut they\u2019re huge. And they can be dangerous. Remember the Roving Arrow company? The Razorshard Armor company? They can do what they want.\u201d<\/p>\n Daly spoke up quietly. Luan nodded as the others grew sober.<\/p>\n \u201cI told you what I saw at Daquin. That was a\u2014a game<\/em>, and people died. At least six, I heard. They brought in warships.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTulm the Mithril.\u201d<\/p>\n Ken murmured. The Japanese [Negotiator] looked around. Luan\u2019s return had hardly been quiet. People had seen<\/em> him playing at Daquin. Even now, Dullahans kept stopping Luan, wanting to buy him a drink to hear all about the Titan\u2019s game and his role in it. And Tulm the Mithril. The [Rower] nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen Daly says they\u2019re dangerous, I agree. But it is<\/em> a big opportunity. And as I said, I saw the Titan of Baleros.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s tiny!<\/em> A Lilliputian, right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have no idea what that is, Paige. But yeah, a small man. Only\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Luan gestured with his hand. Daly shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cNo wonder the buggers at the bar laughed their asses off when I asked how tall he was. Bastards.\u201d<\/p>\n Siri grinned. The Swedish [Ranger] paused, then looked around.<\/p>\n \u201cAll we have to do is say yes or no. That\u2019s simple. The harder part is\u2014the Mage\u2019s Guild.\u201d<\/p>\n Daly nodded. All eyes turned to him.<\/p>\n \u201cDaly, will you tell us what you saw again?\u201d<\/p>\n The Australian man took a seat. He shrugged at Ken.<\/p>\n \u201cLike I said, Ken. Nothing much. I saw an American flag in the Mage\u2019s Guild. Just\u2026over the counter. Someone had made one. I think I played it well when I asked the [Receptionist] about it. But I also think she took down my name and details.\u201d<\/p>\n Silence. Dead silence around the table. Kirana was nervously clasping her hands together. The [Housekeeper] turned to Paige. The [Engineer] turned to Geneva. The [Doctor] was frowning.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you sure it wasn\u2019t a coincidence? Maybe there are other flags\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWith fifty stars and stripes? Believe me, I counted<\/em>, Geneva. You can see for yourself. But\u2014be careful. That [Receptionist] wanted me to talk with the Guildmaster. She\u2019s on the lookout for people from Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut what does that mean? Does that mean Wistram knows about us? Are there people at Wistram? Wherever that is?\u201d<\/p>\n Kenjiro paused.<\/p>\n \u201cI hear Wistram is\u2026different. I hear many good things about Wistram. And bad things. The war with Tiqr, for instance.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat about it?\u201d<\/p>\n A hand. Paige cut off Ken\u2019s reply.<\/p>\n \u201cAsk Ken later. Look, the flag tells us one thing. There are more people from Earth. They\u2019re at Wistram. We know <\/em>they\u2019re at Wistram. The question is: are they there against their will? Do we trust the academy? Do we trust\u2026anyone?\u201d<\/p>\n Aiko passed it to Paige, who inspected it, speaking quietly.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do we do if Geneva goes? Tell this Titan about Earth? It\u2019s one thing to get attention on Geneva\u2019s medicine. Another to give anyone what we know.\u201d<\/p>\n She glanced at Daly for a moment, and he paused, his face blank. Luan sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have to do something. We can\u2019t be alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re too weak. If another company attacks Talenqual and beats the Featherfolk Brigade\u2014we can\u2019t even kill most Silver-rank monsters, let alone Gold. The Bushrangers, I mean.\u201d<\/p>\n Siri agreed. Daly grimaced. His hand went to the pocket crossbow unconsciously as his trigger finger twitched<\/em>. But even the bigger one wouldn\u2019t go through a giant serpent\u2019s hide. But\u2026<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s not exactly true, Siri.\u201d<\/p>\n Daly\u2019s head snapped up. The young man stared warningly at Paige. But she was glowering back. He shook his head warningly as Geneva, Luan, the others turned to her questioningly. Siri paused.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you mean, Paige?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s time I told you something.\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman met Daly\u2019s eyes. He felt his heart skip. He opened his mouth, but Paige was already talking. And it was a relief. So Daly waited.<\/p>\n Paige rose. The [Engineer]\u2019s gaze went from person to person. At Ken, who understood other people, who kept them together. Luan, their champion athlete. At Daly, who led the armed branch of the company. And finally at Geneva.<\/p>\n Geneva, who some still called the Last Light of Baleros. Paige\u2019s eyes were filled with guilt. She spoke slowly, looking at the [Doctor].<\/p>\n \u201cEveryone, I\u2014changed my class. I leveled up thanks to some work I\u2019ve been doing. So I gained\u2014I think they call it a class consolidation.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n The table erupted in gasps. Daly blinked. He hadn\u2019t heard of this!<\/p>\n \u201cIsn\u2019t that a sign you\u2019re gaining power? What level are you, Paige?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s amazing! Why didn\u2019t you say anything earlier? We have to have a party!\u201d<\/p>\n Aiko clapped her hands together. Paige tried to smile. It failed.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t\u2026celebrate. Just yet. I gained my new class\u2026because I\u2019ve been experimenting hard. With weapons. From our world. I\u2026Daly?\u201d<\/p>\n Daly felt all eyes turn to him. Luan was giving him a narrow-eyed stare. Ken just seemed confused. But Geneva\u2014the [Doctor]\u2019s gaze pierced him. She knew<\/em>. He tried to meet her eyes, but couldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n \u201cI asked Paige to work on some weapons for the company. For the Bushrangers. To fight monsters. Or people.\u201d<\/p>\n Luan frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cWeapons? You don\u2019t mean the crossbows, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat weapons?\u201d<\/p>\n Geneva\u2019s voice was low. Intense. She turned to Daly, then Paige. The [Engineer] murmured.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is my new class.\u201d<\/p>\n She lifted a hand, placed it on a table. Spoke a Skill. Daly saw black powder fall onto the table, from her palm. Just a bit. Just enough to make a small mound. But he recoiled fast<\/em>.<\/p>\n The others just sat there for a moment. Then the tang<\/em> of the powder filled the air. Some, like Ken and Aiko, still didn\u2019t get it. But Luan shot back in his chair. Geneva rose out of her chair. Paige poked at the powder. Then she looked up.<\/p>\n \u201c[Blackpowder Engineer]. I can make gunpowder. A tiny bit. Every single day. With a Skill. And I can make more out of the ingredients. I figured out the recipe. Daly and I have been working and we\u2019ve created grenades. Bombs.\u201d<\/p>\n Dead silence. Kirana froze. Siri rose, staring at Daly. But it was Geneva\u2014the [Doctor] whispered.<\/p>\n \u201cYou made gunpowder?\u201d<\/p>\n The young man nodded. He met Geneva\u2019s eyes. The [Doctor]\u2019s expression went beyond betrayal. She met his eyes and he wondered if she could see his soul. But even so, Daly spoke.<\/p>\n \u201cI did. I asked Paige, so it\u2019s on me. But\u2014I\u2019ve seen what the world has to offer. If I had a tank at our disposal, I\u2019d still sleep uneasy. We need gunpowder. To fight.\u201d<\/p>\n Siri spoke softly.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re bringing guns into this world?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot. Yet. Just bombs.\u201d<\/p>\n Luan\u2019s voice cracked.<\/p>\n \u201cJust\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The table erupted into shouts. Geneva was boring a hole into Daly\u2019s face with her eyes. Ken was studying everyone\u2019s reactions and Aiko simply seemed horrified. Kirana was backing away as Siri exploded to her feet, shouting furiously. Luan got up, voice mingling with Siri\u2019s\u2014<\/p>\n \u201cQuiet!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Daly bellowed. The room fell silent. He looked around. Then at Geneva. The [Doctor] was still watching him. Just staring. And Daly wondered if he\u2019d taken away her smile again. But even so.<\/p>\n \u201cListen up. We can\u2019t go back in time. We\u2019ve got an offer from the Titan. Wistram\u2019s got people from earth. And we have gunpowder. The cat\u2019s out of the bag. Now, let\u2019s talk about what happens next.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Flos Reimarch liked balconies like he liked thrones. He could take them or leave them, but he had to admit, they did give a view. But he wasn\u2019t much for pontificating.<\/p>\n \u201cLook! Another group of my people! There, Orthenon!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI see them, Your Majesty.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Steward] stood next to his King. Flos of Reim was doing what he loved: watching his people. In this case, his people returning.<\/p>\n From far and wide they were coming. Across Chandrar\u2019s arid land. People. Citizens who claimed allegiance to the King of Destruction. Flos\u2019 proclamation of peace had sparked a migration.<\/p>\n It had been hard-won. Tiqr had fallen. But the King of Destruction had kept to his vow, when every nation had been prepared for him to break his word. And because he had, his people had come.<\/p>\n Neither Flos nor Orthenon were using any sight-enhancing artifacts, so the distant group was hard even for Orthenon to count.<\/p>\n \u201cIt seems like a group of ten thousand, Your Majesty. I shall send riders to appraise their condition. And they must be settled, at least temporarily. Perhaps in Hellios or Germina?\u201d<\/p>\n His words were, as always, crisp, precise. And pointed. Flos ignored the look as well.<\/p>\n \u201cIn time, Orthenon. But they must come here first. They are my people. They have travelled here for me. Should I not greet them?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Steward] sighed, but he didn\u2019t argue with that point. Flos was smiling, with pure, genuine happiness.<\/p>\n \u201cOrthenon, my horse. I\u2019ll ride out to greet them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYour Majesty, it would be more dignified to wait for their arrival.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNonsense\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt would honor them, my Lord. Think of your position as it affects them. Do the service of greeting them as they would will it.\u201d<\/p>\n The King of Destruction paused. Orthenon heard the female voice and turned his head. Gazi the Omniscient grinned, two of her four eyes on Flos, the other two inspecting the far-off band. She looked at Orthenon, and he gave her a grudging nod.<\/p>\n \u201cHrmf. I suppose you\u2019re right, Gazi.\u201d<\/p>\n Flos looked displeased, but he acquiesced. He stood on his balcony, resting his scarred arms on the stonework as he stared at the approaching group. Some were moving faster towards Reim than the others now. The [King] blinked as he stared. Then he looked at Gazi.<\/p>\n \u201cGazi\u2014do you see\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The half-Gazer only smiled. Flos made a sound.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it?\u201d<\/p>\n Orthenon glanced at Gazi, keenly aware of how good her four lesser eyes were, never mind her injured main eye. The [Scout] grinned.<\/p>\n \u201cArmored troops. Look.\u201d<\/p>\n She pointed out a fast-moving group, all on foot, surging ahead of the rest. Orthenon saw Flos\u2019 eyes widen. He breathed.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Rust\u00e4ngmarder.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Are you sure?\u201d<\/p>\n Even the [Steward] looked astonished. Gazi nodded. Flos was staring at the fast-moving group of about a hundred or so.<\/p>\n \u201cAt least a company of them. How did they abandon their contract\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThey must have split from the main army.\u201d<\/p>\n Orthenon smiled despite himself. One of the finest infantry groups in the world was marching straight towards the capital. The [Steward] could even hear their chanting from afar. He wondered if they\u2019d brought their death drums. With even a hundred, they could\u2026<\/p>\n Flos\u2019 exclamation made the [Steward] look up. The King of Destruction had seen another sight, another group moving nearly as fast as the armored [Soldiers]. He pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cLook! Orthenon! Look! <\/em>They\u2019ve made the journey!\u201d<\/p>\n Orthenon saw. And this time, he realized that the group travelling weren\u2019t as far away as he thought. Flos spread his arms wide. They were overtaking the Rust\u00e4ngmarder with ease.<\/p>\n \u201cMy old friends! How did they pass as refugees?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMaybe no one dared to stop them.\u201d<\/p>\n Gazi murmured. The three watched as the second group strode towards Reim. Faster than even the marching infantry. There were actually more of them than the company of soldiers. And they were laughing, shouting as they pointed at the citadel. Some of them were close to the gates, now. They saw Flos and a roar came from them.<\/p>\n Half-Giants. <\/em>Some as tall as sixteen feet high! [Nomads], [Travellers]. And\u2014warrior classes too. One of them raised her hand and bellowed a greeting up at Flos. He laughed and shouted back.<\/p>\n \u201cMy friends!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cKing of Reim!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The bellow came from the famous band, one of the last groups of half-Giants in the world, who could travel even the Great Desert, Zeikhal. Flos laughed and spread his arms, welcoming them.<\/p>\n \u201cWith the Nomads of the Sky and a company of the Rust\u00e4ngmarder, we could hold an entire stretch of our borders. Assuming the Nomads are willing to fight entirely. We will have to speak with the Tallest Strider\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n The [Steward] was revising his estimates of their war strength. Flos flapped a hand at him.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, hush, Orthenon. Let me savor the moment. There are children with them! They\u2019ve grown, see?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThanks to you, my Lord. It seems time has only helped that.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOpen the larders, Orthenon!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe will have to.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Steward] sighed. He massaged his forehead. But Flos\u2019 mood put a smile on even Orthenon\u2019s face. The King of Destruction sighed. He paused as the Nomads of the Sky began to enter the city. He waved, but then turned to his two vassals.<\/p>\n \u201cYou see, Orthenon. My proclamation of peace is bearing more fruit. At cost. But it grows Reim.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Your Majesty. But so many numbers will strain Hellios, Germina, and Reim\u2019s ability to produce to the limit. Even the [Edict of Bloom] might struggle to grow enough. Even with the rains.\u201d<\/p>\n Flos nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd yet, now I have an army large enough to challenge even Nerrhavia. Not every nation, but a proper army, Orthenon. What I lack now are more of my vassals. And arms, artifacts for my officers! They will come. There are dungeons to be plundered, stashes of artifacts\u2014my vassals are more difficult. Many are still far removed from Reim, and they cannot march to me without being attacked. Some may need to be convinced to rejoin me. Or simply rehired. That is the task before us.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRaiding dungeons?\u201d<\/p>\n The half-Gazer raised one brow. Flos laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cIt makes you feel twenty years younger, eh, Gazi? Why not? Mars can walk in front! But I shall need armor and artifacts, even if Nawalishifra can produce a Naq-Alrama blade for me. That is not all, either.\u201d<\/p>\n He paused. And then he looked at Orthenon.<\/p>\n \u201cLast night, I received a\u2026message of inquiry from a potential ally. Reim is not completely alone, and with Khelt to watch our flank, we are increasingly well-set.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFrom where?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Steward]\u2019s brows snapped together. Flos waved a hand, and Gazi\u2019s eyes all spun, checking for secret spells or listeners. Even so, the [King] lowered his voice.<\/p>\n \u201cLater. But as I say, Reim is increasingly well-placed. All that remains is to strengthen our hand. And\u2026Amerys.\u201d<\/p>\n He paused. Orthenon saw a flash of discontent pass over the King of Destruction\u2019s face. The [Steward] thought now was a good time to bring up another point.<\/p>\n \u201cThere is another factor I would like to bring up, my King. Hence my return to the capital. Takhatres reports that the Empire of Sands has pulled back multiple armies and [Mage] battalions. His tribe has begun taking casualties.\u201d<\/p>\n Flos grimaced. He looked back at the approaching lines of refugees.<\/p>\n \u201cTell him to buy me the summer if he can do so without losing his tribe. The summer, Orthenon. And I will have a position to fight the Empire of Sands from. How far has it grown?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBy summer\u2019s end, it may be half as large as Nerrhavia\u2019s Fallen. And its armies are gaining in level rapidly, my King.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA race?\u201d<\/p>\n Gazi looked at Orthenon. The [Steward] folded his arms.<\/p>\n \u201cThat is not how I would describe it, Gazi. Reim must consolidate its power. The only thing protecting us is distance\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd Takhatres. Let him hold the Empire of Sands at bay as long as he can, Orthenon. I must prepare Reim. Or it will shatter in the first true conflict.\u201d<\/p>\n There was no denying that. Orthenon bowed. Flos nodded and turned away. He grew pensive, and he stared north. And east. As if he could see\u2026his voice was low.<\/p>\n \u201cAmerys. I have sent letters to Wistram, Orthenon, but I have no strength abroad. Yet I must see her. If it is her choice to remain, I would hear it from her. The last of my Seven is needed. All of you are. But if it is her choice\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe would not abandon you, Your Majesty.\u201d<\/p>\n Gazi murmured. Flos nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cNot the Amerys I knew. So then\u2014what? Wistram feigns ignorance, but I have no patience for lies and petty politics. They have Amerys. So\u2014Orthenon.\u201d<\/p>\n He turned his head. The [Steward] smiled coldly.<\/p>\n \u201cYour Majesty\u2019s will?\u201d<\/p>\n The King of Destruction paused. And then he spoke calmly.<\/p>\n \u201cPublically\u2014yes, publically\u2014[Message] the Iron Vanguard. The Seer of Steel, or the Mithril\u2014ask them how much the Iron Vanguard would ask to take Wistram.\u201d<\/p>\n Gazi\u2019s brows rose. Orthenon considered the state of the treasury. He opened his mouth, and Gazi interrupted.<\/p>\n \u201cI have a better idea, my lord. One that need not beggar Reim?\u201d<\/p>\n Flos\u2019 cold look vanished. He looked at Gazi and raised one eyebrow.<\/p>\n \u201cOh? Then I\u2019ll hear it, Gazi.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLater, my Lord. Out of public?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOf course. Hold on asking the Iron Vanguard, Orthenon. They\u2019re the only ones with a navy, aren\u2019t they? A pity.\u201d<\/p>\n The King of Destruction looked at Gazi, and she smiled her enigmatic smile. Orthenon sighed. He looked at Gazi, then at the King of Destruction.<\/p>\n \u201cOne question, Your Majesty? You will have your armies, your vassals, and perhaps even magic and artifacts. But you have sworn peace. You have no cause to declare war, even on the nations that brought down Tiqr.\u201d<\/p>\n Flos paused. He sighed, drumming his fingers on the railing. He shook his head as he looked out at his people.<\/p>\n \u201cI do not need to declare war, Orthenon. I think, perhaps I fear, that I will have more than enough reason soon enough. After all, this is<\/em> Chandrar. Now, come. I must greet my people.\u201d<\/p>\n He smiled ruefully. His hair blew in the dry breeze as he turned.<\/p>\n \u201cThis should prove to be a most interesting summer.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cAmerys.\u201d<\/p>\n Three of them greeted her. The shackled, bound prisoner didn\u2019t respond at first. Only when one of them called her name again did she raise her head.<\/p>\n \u201cAh. Feor. Naili. Viltach. Back again?\u201d<\/p>\n She grinned. The three Archmages of Wistram paused. Feor, the half-Elf of two hundred years, Naili, the Star Lamia, and Viltach, the Archmage of nobility in Terandria. He, at least, was Human, like Amerys.<\/p>\n But Viltach had none of her intensity in his gaze. They stopped before the magical barrier. Feor spoke slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cAmerys, we are told you have refused to eat for the last week. You must eat.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m too weak. Feed me.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou bit off the last [Mage]\u2019s fingers. Poor Teligrain didn\u2019t deserve that.\u201d<\/p>\n Naili leaned on her staff, looking at Amerys with interest. And wariness. The former Archmage grinned.<\/p>\n \u201cOops.\u201d<\/p>\n Vilatch\u2019s voice was harsh, impatient. He stared at Amerys, as if she was beneath him. Ignoring the magical wards drawn around her, the antimagic field in her cell, the physical chains and bindings wrapping her.<\/p>\n \u201cYou won\u2019t get out of here by resisting. If you starve yourself, we\u2019ll simply be forced to feed you. Be reasonable. If you accept\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Amerys spat. It was a good shot\u2014the glob of spit hit the force field in front of his face, and Viltach recoiled. She laughed as the Archmage reddened. Naili hid her own smile as Viltach cursed at her.<\/p>\n \u201cNever. I will swear no oath. Release me or kill me. If you had the courage, you\u2019d have done one or the other long ago, Viltach.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou do not get to make demands, Amerys. You are our<\/em> captive.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPolitical prisoner.\u201d<\/p>\n Feor corrected Viltach with a frown. The Human glared. And again, Amerys laughed. She was, Naili reflected, good at it. The mocking laughter bothered the three Archmages. It was contemptuous of their position, their power. Everything about them. Amerys caught herself and shook her head.<\/p>\n \u201cTell me, Feor. Viltach. Naili. Does Cognita not still rule Wistram? Because you talk as if you do.\u201d<\/p>\n The Archmages paused. Naili smiled at Amerys.<\/p>\n \u201cNot yet. But we\u2019ve got more Earthers on our side. Did I tell you about the shock orb I made? It\u2019s nearly as good as a Level 30 [Lightning Mage] on its own, Amerys. We are advancing in power. And you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNailihuaile.\u201d<\/p>\n The Lamia fell silent as Feor shot her a warning glance. Amerys just laughed again.<\/p>\n \u201cYou think you\u2019ll beat Cognita with tricks from another world?\u201d<\/p>\n She shook her head as far as the chain would allow her. She looked at Feor, the ancient Archmage of nearly two hundred years.<\/p>\n \u201cYou are a fool. Put your \u2018Earthers\u2019 against true magic, Feor. Against the kind of magic that tears at time and created the Golems of Wistram! Place another world against my King. He will devour and destroy it. And I will join him. You cannot keep me here forever.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou will not escape so long as we do not come to an accord, Amerys.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cReally.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n Amerys rolled her eyes. She looked past Feor.<\/p>\n \u201cNaili. I will ally Reim with the Revivalists and give you Wistram if you set me free.\u201d<\/p>\n Viltach and Feor both wavered. Naili hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cWhen you say\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cArchmage Naili!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Feor looked at her. Naili closed her mouth. Amerys looked past her.<\/p>\n \u201cViltach, then. Or one of the other \u2018Archmages\u2019. You cannot keep everything balanced, Feor. I will get out.\u201d<\/p>\n The half-Elf hesitated. He motioned, and the Archmages drew back, conferring. At last, Feor stepped back.<\/p>\n \u201cTricks will not get you anywhere, Amerys. Consider our offer.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGo back and hide in your rooms from Cognita, Feor.\u201d<\/p>\n The half-Elf turned away stiffly. Amerys watched him go. She kept smiling, a moment longer. They were coming more often again. They must be getting worried. She paused. And then Amerys sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m bored.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Fragments. <\/em>Across the world, history was in motion, being decided. Some events were momentous, or reaching a precipice. But in some places, time flowed onwards. Steadily. The world wasn\u2019t one big buildup to the next event. And the future, however interesting, still came one day at a time.<\/p>\n In Liscor, two Gnolls poured themselves a drink in Elirr\u2019s pet shop after retiring early from a game of baseball. They were tired of watching Grimalkin hit the ball out of sight, anyways. One of them was the owner.<\/p>\n The [Beast Trainer] had a stiff Gnollish drink in one paw. Cats meowed<\/em> and wandered around the shop. But Elirr ignored them as he raised the cup.<\/p>\n So did Krshia. The [Royal Shopkeeper] smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cThe month of Rerrk ends. To the warm days, Elirr.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThank you, Krshia.\u201d<\/p>\n They clinked<\/em> cups gently and drank. The Gnollish drink was smooth, not like the fiery stuff Drakes liked to imbibe at every opportunity. But it was also very strong. Krshia growled with pleasure as she felt it warm her up.<\/p>\n Drinking a cup to mark the end of the month of Rerrk was a Gnollish tradition, and as such, one the Plains Gnolls practiced by themselves so they didn\u2019t have to explain or justify it to everyone. Even Erin. Both Gnolls liked Erin, but knowing her, she\u2019d introduce pizza to it somehow.<\/p>\n There were other things to do too, of course. Although the drink and conversation was important. Elirr and Krshia were the best match, hence them standing in Elirr\u2019s pet shop. Across the city, Gnolls would be doing the same. Krshia spared a thought for little Mrsha\u2014but she didn\u2019t need to observe it yet. She sighed as she took another sip.<\/p>\n \u201cAn eventful spring.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMore so than I can remember. Raskghar, Moths\u2014I think I shall lose all my hair. Or turn grey entirely.\u201d<\/p>\n Elirr grumbled. He was already refilling his drink. Krshia couldn\u2019t disagree, either.<\/p>\n \u201cIt feels long. But then, the Winter Sprites came late and left early, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n He nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cA shorter winter. So if the spring was four and a half months\u2026maybe two months till the summer solstice?\u201d<\/p>\n Krshia thought about that. Four months per season. And if Rerrk was about now\u2026she shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cClose enough. The time of the meeting of tribes is upon us at last. It feels like forever since the last one, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTen years. I can remember where I was. There were fewer cats. Shoo!\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll grinned and shooed a cat trying to sniff at his cup. The affronted animal turned and flipped its tail at Elirr, exposing its butthole. The Gnoll rolled his eyes and turned away.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know how they all learn to do that. Or that it\u2019s so disgusting. Yes, the meeting of tribes awaits. Although\u2026do you know what Erin called it? The Gnollmoot. That\u2026what\u2019s a moot?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHrr. I have no idea. Another drink?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh, here.\u201d<\/p>\n A pause as both refilled their cups and drank again. Krshia sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cTen years. And this time, we have a gift worthy of our tribe! I have not told my sister yet what it was except in vaguest detail lest it be overheard in our correspondence. But it will be unsurpassed, I think.\u201d<\/p>\n Elirr grinned, sharing her delight.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd there are Gnolls in power in a Drake city. That is not little, even compared to our gift!\u201d<\/p>\n The female Gnoll nodded. She grinned, showing all her teeth, but then she paused, contemplatively. It was such a huge change. She was on the Council.<\/em> Who could have imagined that a year ago?<\/p>\n \u201cIt was a struggle, yes. Perhaps too large a gamble, but Elirr\u2014I hope to take as much as we give. And we have much to discuss. Gnolls must move as one to deliberate over Erin Solstice and Ryoka Griffin. I hope to gather aid from our mightiest and wisest. I only have a few fears. Such as\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMrsha.\u201d<\/p>\n The old Gnoll looked into his cup. Krshia nodded somberly.<\/p>\n \u201cShe must come to the Gnollm\u2014the meeting of tribes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI fear for her safety.\u201d<\/p>\n Elirr offered that cautiously. Krshia hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cWe will look after her. The Silverfang tribe all will. But she must come, you agree, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n He sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cYes. Magic and<\/em> white fur. The other tribes must see and witness. But I have heard that the Magus Grimalkin, he is training another Gnoll capable of magic. That is strange, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n Krshia paused.<\/p>\n \u201cStrange indeed. Our grudge of four decades against Wistram is passing odd. How could they not have known? Perhaps\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She broke off, waved a paw.<\/p>\n \u201cWe shall see. Honored Elirr, I am nervous and excited for the future. Our people have enough enemies, let alone infighting. The Raskghar are my second fear.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHonored Krshia, they are my nightmare. But while some remain\u2014let us speak of happier things on the end of Rerrk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTrue. My apologies.\u201d<\/p>\n Another drink. Krshia smiled, looking at Elirr. Her chest beat with excitement, but the moment was far off yet. Still. She dreamed of it. Seeing her sister again. Seeing her tribe. This time\u2026she raised her cup.<\/p>\n \u201cTo the future. Let the tribes gather.\u201d<\/p>\n The two Gnolls drank a third time. After a moment, Krshia looked over.<\/p>\n \u201cHrr. Elirr, your cats are trying to drink the alcohol.\u201d<\/p>\n She pointed at the cats, who\u2019d knocked a bottle into a water dish.<\/p>\n Elirr just sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m convinced they\u2019re trying<\/em> to kill themselves. One day, I\u2019ll let them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Cats were intelligent. Dogs were fairly smart. But raised by a [Beast Trainer], let alone a [Beast Master], animals could be scarily intelligent. That was how two Antinium walking down the street saw a pillar of cats unlock Elirr\u2019s door and then charge out into the street. The irate Gnoll raced after them.<\/p>\n \u201cGet back here!<\/em> You\u2019re not getting dinner if you run off! Come back!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He raced after the cats, grabbing the slow ones and bringing them back. The intelligent felines grumbled, and a few, wary of Elirr\u2019s threat, crept back inside. But most, like cats will, ignored the Gnoll and happily escaped for a few hours of freedom.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy do I raise them? Why do Drakes love you pestilential creatures so?\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll trotted past the Antinium, talking to a happy cat, too busy to notice them. The two Antinium watched him enter the shop.<\/p>\n If Elirr had been watchful, he might have noticed that the two Antinium were\u2026different. They were both much like Soldiers. They had four arms, the same general build\u2014but their bodies looked even more reinforced than the average Soldier. And they had fingers<\/em> on their four hands, not the stubs most Soldiers used for combat and little else.<\/p>\n The two Antinium stared at the Gnoll\u2019s shop. One of them turned and opened his mandibles. He spoke, <\/em>another huge clue.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat were those things, Prognugator Tersk?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI believe they were known as \u2018cats\u2019, Prognugator Dekass. They are listed as safe consumables and also kept as animals of reconnaissance and scouting roles in Drake society.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh. Infiltrators. Very clever.\u201d<\/p>\n The two Antinium nodded to each other. They stared around the city and then kept walking. One of the Antinium was a bit taller than the other, as befit his higher status. His name was Tersk. The other was known as Dekass. They were Prognugators. They did not wear their customary steel armor. They were being subtle.<\/p>\n \u201cPrognugator Tersk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Dekass?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI do not comprehend why we have been sent to establish relations before the Grand Queen\u2019s envoys to the Free Antinium.\u201d<\/p>\n Tersk turned his head as the two wandered down the street.<\/p>\n \u201cWe are acting as both a personal greeting from the Armored Queen and a\u2026preparatory measure of sorts, Dekass. A warning. My desire to visit the city of Liscor is also personal, as I have informed you.\u201d<\/p>\n Dekass analyzed the statement and nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cEven so. I understand that the Armored Queen desires closer ties with these \u2018Free Antinium\u2019, Tersk. But I do not comprehend your personal \u2018connection\u2019 with the Antinium Worker known as Pawn.\u201d<\/p>\n Tersk paused.<\/p>\n \u201cThere is much here that may benefit the Hives, Dekass. I have seen it. And you will observe the same too. Soon. Now, I must inquire for directions. Maintain the disguise.\u201d<\/p>\n A Drake was passing down the street with a Gnoll. Both of them were fairly young, and they halted as Tersk raised a hand. The Prognugator spoke slowly to the Drake.<\/p>\n \u201cHello. Sir. We are normal Workers. Looking for our Hive. Will you direct us to the nearest Antinium location? That, and\/or the whereabouts of Revalantor Klbkch of the Free Antinium?\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake and Gnoll stared at the two towering Antinium. They looked at each other. After a second, the Drake pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cHive\u2019s that way.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThank you, sir. We will humbly go about our duties.\u201d<\/p>\n Tersk and Dekass strode past the duo. The Drake opened and closed his mouth. The Gnoll growled.<\/p>\n \u201cThis city, man. I tell you. It gets weirder every day\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n The two Antinium didn\u2019t hear. Dekass turned to Tersk as they went in the direction of the Free Antinium\u2019s Hive.<\/p>\n \u201cCommunications were successful, Tersk. The citizens are completely ignorant to our presence. This city is weak. The Armored Antinium could take it with a single legion thanks to the access tunnel.\u201d<\/p>\n Tersk nodded. The access tunnel was done<\/em>. And the two Antinium were the first visitors to the city. More would come.<\/p>\n \u201cLiscor is indeed vulnerable. But I am convinced the city is useful to the Antinium in its own way. The Free Antinium may be a more substantially allied Hive than the others. Especially the Twisted Antinium.\u201d<\/p>\n Dekass paused.<\/p>\n \u201cIf the Armored Queen desired an alliance, Prognugator Tersk, she would have informed us.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI am merely speculating as to her plans.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSpeculation is a form of extrapolation not needed by Prognugators!\u201d<\/p>\n The other Antinium grew agitated. Tersk looked coolly at him.<\/p>\n \u201cI am the first of the Armored Prognugators, Dekass. Speculation is within my domain of allowed thoughts. Focus yourself. We are all working to a greater purpose. We are all Antinium. It is our destiny to conquer Izril. Even if there is dissent. Combined, the six Hives may finally complete our objectives the Grand Queen has laid out for us. Or the Armored Queen\u2019s personal directives.\u201d<\/p>\n Dekass\u2019 antennae waved furiously as he walked with military precision after Tersk.<\/p>\n \u201cI have doubt that these Free Antinium have much to show the rest of Antinium, Tersk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou are wrong, Dekass.\u201d<\/p>\n The other Antinium considered the statement. Grudgingly, he opened his mandibles.<\/p>\n \u201cI will concede one point. The inn we passed was somewhat enticing. At least that was impressive architecture. Very porous.\u201d<\/p>\n Tersk nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cMm, I agree with you on this detail, Dekass. It had a very Antinium-like structure. Which reinforces my point: there is worth above after all. Now, follow me. First we will inform the Free Queen of the tunnel\u2019s completion. Then, we shall find Pawn. And perhaps find some soup. Soup is very tasty.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is\u2026soup?\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n The arrival of two strange Antinium to the city went unnoticed by everyone except<\/em> the Antinium. The Watch was distracted with the Bloodfields and the Crelers, and anyone who might have picked up on the subtle hints was playing baseball. Or distracted.<\/p>\n Someone else might have noticed, if he had been paying attention. But Az\u2019kerash, the Necromancer, was speaking to himself. And his servant, Ijvani, was far from Liscor. She stood in a cave, listening to her master speak.<\/p>\n \u201cStrategically, the battle was completely lopsided. Were it not for the arrogance of the Adult Creler, the adventurers would have perished. It sent the Crelers into<\/em> the magical doorway rather than encircle them. And yet, the odds of it falling were remote. And they did it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Master.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The skeleton\u2019s inner voice was patient. She adored her master\u2019s words. But he had gone over the battle over four times now. To the undead, who never forgot, it was odd. But she still luxuriated in her master\u2019s attention, his words. And his satisfaction. Az\u2019kerash spoke, all of his thoughts focused on one thing for once.<\/p>\n \u201cI was never an adventurer. But I have fought Adults. I have walked Rhir and seen terrible things brought to life by the blight, by the Demon King and his Deathless. Opponents that I will face at the end, one way or another. Even now, they wait, and the world forgets the peril of assailing the Demon King.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWas this Creler nest particularly dangerous, Master?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot to an army. The Adult might have bested you, Ijvani. But not Venitra or Kerash had they used their abilities correctly. But to Silver-rank adventurers? It was\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n The Necromancer caught himself.<\/p>\n \u201cIt was an\u2026amusing distraction.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI did not collect the [Necromancer] known as Pisces, Master. I am still able to do so, if you wish.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Anxiously, the black skeleton wondered if her master didn\u2019t think she was capable. But she was reassured by Az\u2019kerash\u2019s casual flick of hand.<\/p>\n \u201cLet the young [Necromancer] be, Ijvani. His victory is unexpected. But insignificant in the larger scale of things.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Master. What\u2026what are those things?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Necromancer absently split his thoughts.<\/p>\n \u201cThere is much I must do. Create more of my Chosen, perfect my creations. And yet\u2014at least that Dragon knows I exist. And the City Runner. Time works for and against me.\u201d<\/p>\n He sighed. His elation faded, cold logic returning as he reassessed his situation. Got back to work, so to speak. He thought about the state of the world, split part of himself to analyze his analysis.<\/p>\n \u201cThe state of the world is relatively stable. For now. The King of Destruction is a welcome distraction. Perhaps I should encourage his victory, at least for now. And sow dissent the world over. The Antinium Hives continue to grow in strength while the north is fragmented after their failure at Liscor. But that is hardly war, which suits my ends. Perhaps\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n He broke off. Ijvani actually felt her master\u2019s thoughts halt and reverse. Perril Chandler paused. He stared at an invisible memory.<\/p>\n \u201cThey never left. Not once. They summoned a Frostmarrow Behemoth. Poorly, of course. Spontaneous magical combination. I have seen that\u2026they never left. She told him to run.\u201d<\/p>\n He kept coming back to it. It was\u2026strange. Ijvani felt her master\u2019s elation, then him suppressing it, growing calm. And then\u2014memory.<\/em><\/p>\n His. Perril Chandler stood on a battlefield. Alone. No one stood with him. No one living. They had all fled. Ijvani saw them, saw the bright [Knights] in retreat, their banners broken. Saw faces she half-recognized from her master\u2019s thoughts. Saw a face like Bea\u2019s looking back.<\/em><\/p>\n But she did not stand with him. Perril Chandler stood alone on Calanfer\u2019s borders, as four armies advanced. But the [Necromancer] never stepped back.<\/em><\/p>\n The broken dead of Calanfer stirred. Four kingdoms halted their approach as the dead rose. Alone, the Necromancer of Terandria stood. And that day, he earned the title of Archmage of Wistram. That day, they called him the Undying Shield of Calanfer. When he stood. Alone\u2014<\/em><\/p>\n But he<\/em> had not been alone. The memory, which was glorious and overshadowed by bitter regret changed. Ijvani saw a memory of a young man, standing with his team. Holding hands with a half-Elf. And she felt something rise in her master. Something\u2026soft.<\/p>\n The skeleton looked down at her own empty ribcage. Oh, wait\u2014not empty. The Healing Slime shivered as she poked at it. Around Ijvani, the Defenders of the Cave hid. For death walked among them. The [Blackfire Fireball] still burned in Ijvani\u2019s mouth, ready to detonate as the teleportation sigil gleamed around her.<\/p>\n Her master\u2019s voice was slow. Thoughtful.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Horns of Hammerad. Perhaps. Perhaps I have been without allies for too long. And there are a few, even now\u2026Fetohep? He and I have never spoken, despite my admiration. Why did I never venture\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n He paused.<\/p>\n \u201cLoyalty to hearth and home. Ah.\u201d<\/p>\n His laughter was tired. But it was<\/em> laughter. And Ijvani sensed her master\u2019s thoughts splitting again. In a new direction.<\/p>\n \u201cAllies. A few. The Stitch Witch, for one. Does she remain on Izril? Perhaps. Perhaps<\/em>\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Once more.<\/p>\n \u201cThey never ran. And she\u2014she came back for him. \u2018There are worse monsters than me\u2019.\u201d<\/p>\n Softly, Az\u2019kerash sighed. And Ijvani hesitated. She was loath to interrupt him. But it was time. She yearned to see<\/em> him. She spoke.<\/p>\n \u201cMaster. Should I return home?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Az\u2019kerash paused.<\/p>\n \u201cYes. Return, Ijvani. Erase the sigil as you leave.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, Master.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Happily. Ijvani took the burning, compressed fireball out of her mouth. She inspected the black flames, ready to detonate, let it hover in the air. At last she could use the spell.<\/p>\n The Defenders of the Cave froze as a wall of bone rose, trapping them in the cave. Shield Spiders and Fortress Beavers scuttled towards the entrance, away<\/em> from the fireball. But the wall of bone was absolute. They scratched at the wall. But the flickering fireball began to pulse. Expand. The skeleton stepped into the teleportation sigil.<\/p>\n And stopped. Something was pounding at her chest. Like a heartbeat. She looked down.<\/p>\n \u201cStop that.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Healing Slime was trying to stop her. It felt the power waiting to be unleashed in the fireball. It threw itself against Ijvani\u2019s ribcage, making a tiny sound. And both she and the Necromancer heard it.<\/p>\n \u201cIjvani? What are you doing?\u201d<\/p>\n Guiltily, the skeleton tried to hide the slime.<\/p>\n \u201cNothing, Master. It is just a slime I found. It reminds me of Oom.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShow it to me.\u201d<\/p>\n The skeleton pulled the healing slime out. It writhed, trying to get away as Az\u2019kerash stared at it.<\/p>\n \u201cOdd. That\u2019s no slime I am familiar with. The magic in it looks\u2014is that a potion of speed? No\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Ijvani felt something biting her leg. She looked down, casually kicked. A Fortress Beaver went spinning across the floor. Az\u2019kerash paused. He frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cLeave the creatures, Ijvani. Fortress Beavers are a part of this world as much as spiders. Leave them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMaster, the fireball\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. Alter the spell sigil to erase itself.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut Master\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The skeleton\u2019s mental voice became something like a whine. The Necromancer sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cEnough, Ijvani. You may bring the slime. I will inspect it.\u201d<\/p>\n The skeleton brightened.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you, Master!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n She erased the fireball and lowered the bone wall. The Defenders of the Cave fled as the noble Healing Slime, trapped, distracted the death-thing. Woe! Woe, for Mrsha the Great and Terrible was not here to do battle with the foul thing! Darkness had triumphed, as the skeleton adjusted the spell sigil that would teleport her back to her foul lair.<\/p>\n Ijvani was nearly done altering the spell as Az\u2019kerash patiently adjusted the teleportation rune on his end. He paused as Ijvani turned her head left and right, ensuring the matrix was perfectly altered.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is that strange\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMaster? I\u2019m done. Is something wrong?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Necromancer paused. He thought he\u2019d sensed something through his connection with Ijvani. But the skeleton wasn\u2019t him, so there was a limit to how far he could extend her natural abilities. He waved a hand.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, it\u2019s probably nothing. Teleport back, Ijvani.\u201d<\/p>\n The skeleton smiled as she stepped into the teleportation sigil. At last!<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m going home. I\u2019m going\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Some days, she wondered if she had fewer bad days than before. She couldn\u2019t remember. But perhaps, the point wasn\u2019t how many bad days she had, but how she handled them.<\/p>\n Ryoka Griffin tried to smile. And it was easier. It wasn\u2019t forced. She could smile. It wasn\u2019t perfect. It wasn\u2019t like\u2014well, Erin. Or Mrsha. Ryoka was not a happy person.<\/p>\n But she was getting better. That was the point. She couldn\u2019t be perfect, ever. But she was better than before.<\/p>\n Better than last time. She\u2019d be better still next month, hopefully. It was a learning process, and more than that\u2014<\/p>\n She was learning to laugh with people. Ryoka and Fierre sat together in the Huntress\u2019 Haven, eating lunch and laughing. It didn\u2019t matter what they were talking about. Well, it did, but it was just so strange.<\/p>\n Ryoka was relaxing. She had no purpose. She was just\u2026\u2019hanging\u2019. Which was awkward the instant you thought of it like that. But really, it meant she wasn\u2019t running. She wasn\u2019t forcing herself to be social.<\/p>\n It was easy to be her. And wasn\u2019t it wonderful and depressing how rare that feeling was? But as Fierre giggled over a terrible joke Ryoka had made, the young woman found herself smiling.<\/p>\n Just for a moment. Then of course, something happened. In this case, something was Mad Madain. He kicked his way out of his room, growling as he clutched at his head.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat the fuck is making that racket?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n It was midday, but the man had just woken up. He stared red-eyed at the two young women. Ryoka looked up.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry, did we wake you, Madain?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cToo fucking right!\u201d<\/p>\n The man\u2019s glare was designed to start a fight. Part of Ryoka instantly bristled, but she had changed. She nodded towards the door.<\/p>\n \u201cWe can leave if you want.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka offered casually. If she had to, she\u2019d be angry. But she would leave. And probably\u2026probably not dwell on this moment for the rest of the day. It was a referendum on Madain\u2019s reaction, not her.<\/p>\n And surprisingly, the mad [Innkeeper] paused. He glared, but then he shook his head like a dog.<\/p>\n \u201cGah. I\u2019m going out. You two stay and chatter like women. Can\u2019t lose my last two bags of coin, can I? Now that bastard [Fistfighter]\u2019s gone.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka and Fierre blinked. The Vampire girl looked up at the ceiling quickly.<\/p>\n \u201cAlber\u2019s gone?\u201d<\/p>\n Madain was drinking some stale water straight from the pitcher. He grunted as he swallowed.<\/p>\n \u201cAlber, right. He\u2019s off to another city. Left last night.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. He didn\u2019t say anything to me. How about you, Fierre?\u201d<\/p>\n The broker shook her head. Ryoka felt a pang of guilt. She had liked Alber. And she was afraid he hadn\u2019t liked her that much. Another missed opportunity.<\/p>\n But\u2014don\u2019t dwell on it. Or if you do, not now. Ryoka smiled as she looked back at Fierre and Madain disappeared into his kitchen.<\/p>\n \u201cAlright, contrary to what Madain says, I\u2019m pretty sure neither of us want to be here when he has breakfast. I\u2019ve seen him eat.\u201d<\/p>\n Fierre laughed and shuddered as she rose. The two got up and headed for the door. Ryoka was smiling, but the news about Alber reminded her of something.<\/p>\n \u201cSo\u2014Fierre. I might go to that address you gave me. If you\u2019ll tell me which city it is. Or just give me the address again. Come on.\u201d<\/p>\n She held out a hand. Fierre had told her the address before, but celebration drinking had wiped most of it from Ryoka\u2019s head. And now she was being very reluctant to hand the information over to Ryoka again. The Vampire girl paused. She looked at Ryoka as they stood in the shade outside Madain\u2019s inn. She pulled her hood over her head.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2014look, Ryoka. I know this matters to you. But that group you had me find is<\/em> backed by\u2026her.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI just don\u2019t want you to get hurt. I mean, the\u2026Stitch Witch is one thing. But this is another very dangerous lady.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka sighed. Reflexively, she scratched at her missing fingers.<\/p>\n \u201cI know. But Fierre\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, listen.\u201d<\/p>\n The Vampire girl gripped Ryoka and swung her around easily. She was so much stronger than her appearance suggested. She stared up at Ryoka, her red eyes intent.<\/p>\n \u201cLook, Ryoka, I know you\u2019re advancing fast as a City Runner. You\u2019ve got credibility, speed, your wind, and<\/em> some fame for your runs. You\u2019ll be getting the real contracts soon. Private ones, or even the kind of requests that Couriers might get. High-level City Runners can compete<\/em> with some Couriers. It\u2019s all in the future. I just don\u2019t want you to toss it all away by making an enemy of\u2026her.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Fierre hesitated. Ryoka understood nervousness, but Fierre was reluctant to even say the name out loud.<\/p>\n \u201cThe Flower Lady. She\u2014she\u2019s \u2018nice\u2019 now. But do you know how she gained control of her family? Do you know what she can do? <\/em>What her family has done in the past? Bamer has stories\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka put a hand on Fierre\u2019s shoulder. Tried to budge her. It was like trying to move a rock. She sighed and tried words instead.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sure. Please, Fierre. I\u2019m not going to make her my enemy. I\u2019m just going to\u2026negotiate. Make a trade. And she knows me. If she was going to kill me\u2014well, she\u2019s had a lot of patience with me so far.\u201d<\/p>\n The Vampire girl hesitated. She looked Ryoka up and down.<\/p>\n \u201cCan\u2019t I talk you out of it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI did pay you all that money to find them. Trust me. It\u2019s fine. I\u2019m not going to start anything. Runner\u2019s honor.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHah!\u201d<\/p>\n But Fierre did let go of Ryoka. She fished in her belt pouch and pulled out the bit of parchment where she\u2019d written the address. She handed it to Ryoka and the City Runner unfolded it.<\/p>\n \u201cAha. I knew I remembered the street. But not the city. Hold on\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka stared at the address. Then she frowned. She looked at Fierre, and went for the small map in her belt pouch. Ryoka unfolded it, stared at the city listed on the piece of parchment. Stared at the map. She cursed.<\/p>\n \u201cOh, you\u2019ve got to be kidding me. They were right there?<\/em> All this time?\u201d<\/p>\n She jabbed a dot on the map barely thirty miles south of Reizmelt. Fierre grinned weakly.<\/p>\n \u201cIn fairness, it was really hard to find them. I only got one tip when I asked about\u2026odd people. But then someone connected me with all the details. That\u2019s them. About eight of them. They\u2019re listed as Bronze-rank adventurers, some of them. Half are enrolled in the local Mage\u2019s Guild\u2026you\u2019re sure they\u2019re the ones?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cPretty sure. I\u2019ve never met them. But the names match up. I\u2019m going to visit them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you\u2019ll be\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka hugged Fierre with one arm. She grinned at the Vampire girl reassuringly.<\/p>\n \u201cStop worrying! I\u2019m just going to make a little trade. I\u2019ll be back before night. Everything will be fine, Fierre!\u201d<\/p>\n She turned and jogged into the sunlight before the Vampire girl could stop her. Ryoka took off at a jog. It would be fine. She was a changed person. Nothing was going to happen.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Probably.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n It was a spring day when the young woman ran down one of the large paved roads, heading south. Not on the actual stone road; she ran to the side of it, to avoid the traffic as well. Wagons, people on horseback and foot\u2014all were travelling on the last day of spring.<\/p>\n The City Runner ran barefoot, and the wind blew at her back. Some people, sensing the breeze, or seeing her distinctive features among the fairer-skinned population of Izril, as well as the bare feet, called out.<\/p>\n \u201cWind Runner!\u201d<\/p>\n She waved at some of them. A few months ago she\u2019d been new to the area. Now, people knew her. Little children followed her about with improvised sails, laughing. The Wind Runner of Reizmelt ran, blowing a gentle breeze with her.<\/p>\n She had made mistakes. But she had also had her triumphs. The Pithfire Hounds, returning with a wagon full of dead Stelbore corpses, waved at her, and she caught the whiff of charred flesh and hair. Not exactly good, but the dog that sat up and looked at her made her smile. She paused a moment; ran on.<\/p>\n It was a short run, at least in how City Runners measured such things. It still took her a good while, but there were harder roads. Longer paths. You could run for a month straight and you might not even get to First Landing. And she was a bit faster. A bit wiser.<\/p>\n A bit older. The young woman ran to another city, well, barely more than a glorified town. But the city of Laiss was still populated by countless souls she\u2019d never met before. Some of them looked up as she blew into town, through the gates, flashing her Runner\u2019s Seal at the guards.<\/p>\n The young woman ran through an open square. As she did, she passed by a [Fistfighter] plying his trade. Alber glanced up and he met Ryoka\u2019s eyes for a second. She waved\u2014he kept standing in his little boxing arena.<\/p>\n Ryoka found her destination wasn\u2019t far from the square. In fact, it was a pretty little home in one of the nicer districts in the city. Of course it was. Magnolia Reinhart might not flash her wealth, but she wasn\u2019t going to buy an apartment. This was\u2014well, a mansion much like the one in Celum. Far from her true estates, with the moving animals on the walls, the massive garden and so on. But it was better than any townhouse.<\/p>\n And it was occupied. Ryoka paused at the gates. How many mansions did Magnolia have across Izril? Were they all staffed? She spotted a little root cellar to the right, past the smooth walkway that led up to the doors. Delicate stonework gave the mansion a commanding overlook of everything around it. Narrow windows, though, closer to crenellations. Ryoka wondered what style and point in history this mansion had been made in.<\/p>\n She wiped her feet on the street, getting some mud off it before she walked down the pristine stone walkway. She hoped there was a rug. Maybe just wipe her feet on the grass over there?<\/p>\n The double doors opened, catching the young woman trying to wipe her feet on the soft grass. She froze as a [Maid] appeared in the doorway. Definitely a [Maid] dressed in the Victorian-era dress. The woman eyed Ryoka.<\/p>\n \u201cCan I help you, Miss?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSorry. City Runner. May I speak to Miss Rose? Or Mister Joseph?\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka flashed her Runner\u2019s Seal. It didn\u2019t work as well on the [Maid]. She studied Ryoka up and down.<\/p>\n \u201cMay I ask if this is a delivery, Miss Runner?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUm\u2014no. I\u2019m actually just a friend. Well\u2014I don\u2019t know the\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka hesitated. This felt awfully<\/em> familiar. She tried again, smiling.<\/p>\n \u201cSorry. I\u2019d just like to talk to Rose. Or Joseph? Imani? Galina? Troy?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Maid]\u2019s face grew more hostile with each name. Ryoka knew there were three others, but Erin had never remembered their names. She hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m\u2014are they inside? May I speak with them?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m afraid I do not know who you\u2019re referring to, Miss Runner. This is the estate of Lady Magnolia Reinhart. She is not inside at present. Perhaps you have the wrong address?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Maid] looked at Ryoka. The City Runner sighed. She\u2019d thought it would come to that. Now, what was old Ryoka\u2019s move? Challenge the [Maid] to a fistfight, probably. So\u2026don\u2019t do that at any cost.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry. I\u2019m aware this is Magnolia Reinhart\u2019s estate.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAh, then perhaps\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know they\u2019re living here. And Magnolia Reinhart knows me.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Maid] paused, one hand on the door. She looked back at Ryoka suspiciously. The City Runner tried to smile.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m Ryoka Griffin. I\u2026I\u2019m like the others. Lady Magnolia knows me. Can I just have a word? Please?\u201d<\/p>\n The woman\u2019s eyes flickered at Ryoka\u2019s name. She looked at Ryoka, then she stepped back.<\/p>\n \u201cOne moment, Miss Runner. I shall inquire within.\u201d<\/p>\n She closed the door. Ryoka stood outside, shifting from foot to foot. She sensed people on the street idly passing by and watching, probably wondering what delivery Magnolia Reinhart was getting. One of them called out to her cheerfully.<\/p>\n \u201cHoi, Miss Runner! You\u2019re arriving at a busy time, eh? You\u2019re that Wind Runner, aren\u2019t you? Can you conjure us a breeze?\u201d<\/p>\n He was loitering around with a few of his buddies, male and female. Ryoka grinned and waved at them. A little breeze blew their way. The man laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re alright, then! Hey, you lot\u2014fifteen minutes before break\u2019s up!\u201d<\/p>\n He turned back to his companions. Ryoka refocused on the door, smiling. Yeah, smile. She saw the door open\u2014the [Maid] reappeared.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m afraid Lady Reinhart\u2019s orders are quite clear, Miss Griffin. There are to be no visitors. Kindly remove yourself from the grounds at once.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cLook, I know Magnolia doesn\u2019t think highly of me. Are those her orders directly or just in general? Can I send her a message? I promise, I just want to talk. Make a trade\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m afraid my<\/em> orders are quite clear, Miss Ryoka. Please leave before I am forced to summon the Watch.\u201d<\/p>\n The City Runner bit her lip.<\/p>\n \u201cLook. Does Magnolia Reinhart know I\u2019m here? If not, can you let her know? I\u2019ll leave! Just let her know I\u2019d like to talk. And\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n A shadow appeared behind the [Maid]. The Human woman glanced back and moved out of the way.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd what were you intending to do, Miss Ryoka Griffin?\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka looked up.<\/em> A towering Gnoll appeared in the doorway. She was definitely she. And she had on a maid\u2019s outfit, complete with a headband. But\u2026it had to be said that she really carried the black and white dress well, but it just didn\u2019t suit\u2026her. Ryoka recognized the Gnoll.<\/p>\n \u201cUh\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ve met before, yes? Tell me, Miss Griffin. Are you planning on forcing your way into the mansion? Because that would be most inconvenient for the staff. Yes?\u201d<\/p>\n Bekia, the Gnoll [Maid] was about, oh, seven feet tall. And her arms were thick with muscle. Most importantly though\u2014she was built for that height. Gnolls weren\u2019t Humans, where seven feet tall was an aberration.<\/p>\n They, male or female, were perfectly capable of living long lives at such heights. And fighting with all the height and weight and reach that entailed. Bekia looked like she could take apart a heavyweight boxing division, male or female. She grinned down at Ryoka. The six-foot-tall runner girl stepped back.<\/p>\n \u201cWe have met. I was at Lady Magnolia\u2019s mansion. You remember me?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve seen you. Hrr. I hear you cause trouble from Theofore. Will I have trouble, Miss Ryoka?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUm. No. I just want to talk.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka raised her hands carefully. The Gnoll [Maid] inspected her. She frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you sure? What if I poked you?\u201d<\/p>\n She raised one huge paw and poked Ryoka with a furry finger. Ryoka edged back.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? No! I\u2019m just talking. I won\u2019t cause trouble. I\u2019ll leave if\u2014who\u2019s Theofore?\u201d<\/p>\n Bekia paused. She looked disappointed.<\/p>\n \u201cPity. I thought you\u2019d try to beat Nerrissa.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIs that<\/em> why I had to answer the door?\u201d<\/p>\n The Human woman looked outraged. Bekia shrugged. She turned to Nerrissa and shook her head.<\/p>\n \u201cInform Lady Reinhart that Ryoka Griffin wishes to see the children. Come in, Miss Ryoka. Would you like some tea?\u201d<\/p>\n She opened the door, and Ryoka stared at her. Bekia grinned with all her teeth.<\/p>\n \u201cYou could always throw a punch too. That would be most welcome.\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cShe\u2019s where? And she just walked up? She\u2014did she punch anyone? Scream? Prevaricate in any way? No?<\/em> That is odd. I wonder if she\u2019s come down with something.\u201d<\/p>\n Lady Magnolia Reinhart spoke into the little speaking stone as she sat with Ressa. They had broken off deliberations about the upcoming visit to Oteslia at the sudden news that Ryoka Griffin had found the place where Magnolia\u2019s guests<\/em> were staying. Ressa listened intently as Magnolia drummed her fingers. She pointed at Ressa.<\/p>\n \u201cSend Reynold over at once.\u201d<\/p>\n Ressa nodded and vanished. Magnolia spoke a few more words\u2014Ressa reappeared.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019ll be there in less than thirty minutes. Should Bekia detain Ryoka Griffin?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot forcibly. Not<\/em>, Nerrissa. Have her sent to me. No\u2014by all means, let her talk with the children. Tell me what she says. Thank you!\u201d<\/p>\n Magnolia cheerfully ended the call and turned to Ressa. The [Head Maid] raised her eyebrows.<\/p>\n \u201cRyoka Griffin found the children from Earth. What does she want?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI imagine we\u2019ll find out, Ressa. Now, back to our visit. What\u2019s an appropriate gift for\u2014who\u2019s next on our list? Ah, Helessia Gemscale. And Navine Gemscale. Both Ladies of the Wall of Salazsar. So not<\/em> gemstones, then.\u201d<\/p>\n Ressa tsked<\/em> as Magnolia went back to her list.<\/p>\n \u201cMagnolia. Are you sure this is the time to be travelling around Izril? The Guild of Assassins has been too quiet. And the Circle of Thorns\u2014doesn\u2019t it bother you?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Lady] looked up with a sigh.<\/p>\n \u201cRessa, it does bother me, but forging an alliance is essential. Izril cannot descend into war. Not with the Necromancer and the Antinium. This [Trade War] is forcing the hand of the local nobility. I\u2019ll do a circuit before I leave. Mend as many bridges once they\u2019re inclined to listen. <\/em>But we must have peace with the Drakes. It won\u2019t be more than a week, at most.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd a dangerous trip, even if we use the carriage.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI rather think we won\u2019t. By sea, Ressa. Let\u2019s not alarm the Drakes. Although I\u2019d like to bring the carriage\u2026we must go over our planned entrance. And all these gifts.\u201d<\/p>\n Magnolia sighed. Planning out a thoughtful gift for each Drake she planned on meeting was taxing even her ability to host. Over a hundred gifts were already neatly packed away and it was a king\u2019s ransom of goodwill she hoped to buy. But that was the good and bad thing; you could buy goodwill among Drakes with a good present. They were refreshingly straightforward in that way. Like Dragons.<\/p>\n \u201cSpeaking of which\u2026I wonder if Teriarch knows about him. <\/em>Or her?<\/em> Both of them? Neither?\u201d<\/p>\n Ressa looked confused. Magnolia\u2019s relationship with Teriarch was something even the [Head Maid] and Magnolia\u2019s oldest friend didn\u2019t know the full details of. She herself had met Teriarch\u2026fourteen times.<\/p>\n \u201cHow wouldn\u2019t he?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe sleeps. And I think he\u2019s stopped caring about the Walled Cities\u2014no. Surely he knows. Perhaps he doesn\u2019t. Either way, I\u2019d better prepare\u2014no, wait. I\u2019m not supposed to know. And I imagine the Drakes will not<\/em> take it well if I suggest that I know. For now. Or ever, perhaps. They would be rather\u2026I wonder how many know themselves?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Lady] mused out loud. Ressa shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cMaybe telling them is worth something politically. Why not try it and see what happens?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRessa, you would be a terrible<\/em> [Politician]. Either I start a war or\u2026no! Absolutely not.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFine. But what name am I crossing off the list?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh\u2014that one. No, wait. I\u2019ll still meet<\/em> him. So\u2026just make a little note?\u201d<\/p>\n Ressa pointedly made a note on the paper, all without taking her eyes off Magnolia. The [Lady] ignored the look.<\/p>\n \u201cNow, let\u2019s discuss what to bring again. I may have to bother the old man\u2014either old man\u2014for a better bag of holding. I simply must bring enough magical mirrors to communicate with. Or those terribly gauche <\/em>talking marble busts. But bringing so many artifacts together in a limited space without having them all explode or react to one another is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cExpensive.\u201d<\/p>\n Magnolia threw her own quill at Ressa. The [Head Maid] caught it deftly. The [Lady] scowled.<\/p>\n \u201cDifficult! Ressa, we are sparing no expense. This is our one chance to end this ridiculous conflict between Humans and Drakes. They wouldn\u2019t even let one of our ships into Zeres\u2019 harbor most times, let alone brook the idea of peace!<\/em> It has to go well. These Drake [Ladies] are the one sensible option we have, and if I have to give them half of the artifacts Regis has plundered from them over the years\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She broke off and Ressa saw Magnolia\u2019s eyelids flicker. The [Head Maid] bit off the retort she was making about how many cargo ships that would take and looked at Magnolia, worried. The [Lady] paled.<\/p>\n \u201cWait. Something\u2019s\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n Her head snapped around, staring at some unseen sight. Ressa reached for her dagger reflexively.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat is it? The Stitch Witch? I thought you said she was moving away from\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. Ryoka. The children are in danger. Warn Bekia!\u201d<\/p>\n Ressa shot to her feet.<\/p>\n \u201cReynold is already on the way.\u201d<\/p>\n She shot out of the room. Magnolia looked around.<\/p>\n \u201cRyoka Griffin. What has she done?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Ryoka found herself having tea with Bekia. The Gnoll [Maid] was rather informal, not like the other servants in the household. That was because she was actually a former [Chieftain]. Of a Gnoll tribe.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re kidding me. The<\/em> [Chieftain]? Like\u2014Urksh of the Stone Spears tribe?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh yes. I was for a while. But I got in trouble, yes? Got kicked out\u2014came here. Being a [Maid] is rather fun. Relaxing. But I miss fighting. We had sparring matches in my tribe.\u201d<\/p>\n Bekia grinned as she sipped from her tea cup. Ryoka eyed her brawny arms.<\/p>\n \u201cSo\u2026Magnolia put you here, to watch over the people from Earth? Rose and everyone? And they are here?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh yes. Hrr. Nerrissa should be getting them since Magnolia has given you permission to speak. And yes, we rotate in staff to look over them. It is a chore.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI bet. Er\u2014I mean, I heard from Erin that they were here, but I never met them myself. They were gone when I came. I heard they were\u2026troublesome?\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll [Maid] only grinned in response. It had an edge<\/em>.<\/p>\n \u201cTell me, Miss Ryoka. Do you think you have worked hard to become a City Runner? They speak of you, even here. The Wind Runner of Reizmelt. And I saw Miss Erin Solstice when she came. I understand she runs an inn. Did she work hard?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes. I know Erin did. And I worked hard too. Not as hard as I could have. I\u2014made lots of mistakes. Magnolia was very patient with me. In her way.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka had mixed feelings about Magnolia Reinhart, but she had to admit, she wouldn\u2019t have been as tolerant of her. Bekia nodded reasonably.<\/p>\n \u201cYes. Lady Reinhart, she is good at being patient, yes? But she demands people try. They must work, if not their hardest, at least some<\/em>, no? But these children\u2026I am afraid they have exhausted her patience. Hence why they are here.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka considered her words. She glanced past Bekia\u2014she thought she could hear some voices from further in the mansion. And she found herself arguing against what old Ryoka would have said. Old Ryoka was probably all on Magnolia\u2019s side.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, but sometimes people need help, Bekia. Sometimes they need guidance. Or\u2026just a helping hand. Not everyone can make it alone. I know Magnolia is good, but she\u2019s far from perfect.\u201d<\/p>\n Bekia laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cTrue! Hrm, you have good points, Miss Griffin. But this group\u2014they are rather good at needing lots of help, yes? Lady Reinhart offered them many opportunities. But they are rather content to be\u2014well, you shall see for yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n Her ears twitched, and Ryoka heard the voices getting louder. She stood up uncertainly as the parlor doors opened and someone stumbled through. She saw a young man, a spray of messy hair. Ryoka stepped towards him.<\/p>\n \u201cJoseph\u2014?\u201d<\/p>\n And then she caught the whiff coming from him. Ryoka recoiled, and Bekia sneezed. It was distinctly alcohol. The young man was inebriated. No\u2014drunk. And it was barely midday! He looked at her. Then Ryoka saw a group of young men and women pour into the room.<\/p>\n \u201cNerrissa! Who is\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n A young woman with a slightly worn shirt, jacket, and pants, all too bright and colorful to be made in this world, was complaining to the [Maid] as she was shepherded into the room much like an actual sheep. She turned\u2014and stared at Ryoka.<\/p>\n \u201cOh my god.<\/em> Are you her?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUh\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWho\u2019s this? Rose?\u201d<\/p>\n One of the others stared blankly at Ryoka. Another looked at her feet. The drunk guy stared straight at Bekia\u2019s chest. The Gnoll sighed. Ryoka looked on the people from Earth.<\/p>\n What a wretched hive of scum and\u2026well, the Antinium Hive was actually quite neat. These\u2026kids weren\u2019t. Most of them were well-dressed, aside from the drunk Joseph and another sloppily-dressed guy. The girls were clean, at least. But they looked\u2026indolent.<\/p>\n Yeah. That word described it. A bit too lazy. As if they weren\u2019t running about each day, or working. Too\u2026bored, relaxed. They sat down in the parlor, sprawled over the couch, stared at Ryoka as Bekia rose and stepped back.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re her, aren\u2019t you? The Runner! The one that Erin told us about!\u201d<\/p>\n Rose gasped. Some of the other Earthworlders stared at Ryoka. Joseph jerked up.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? We\u2019ve got someone else joining us?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. I\u2019m just visiting. I found out you were here. And I\u2014my name\u2019s Ryoka Griffin. Nice to meet you.\u201d<\/p>\n Rose stared as Ryoka held out her right hand. The City Runner didn\u2019t know why\u2014until she remembered her two missing fingers. She hesitated, but Rose gingerly shook her hand.<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019d you find us? I mean\u2014you\u2019re an actual Runner? A Street Runner?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. City Runner.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe Wind Runner of Reizmelt.\u201d<\/p>\n Bekia spoke helpfully. Nerrissa blinked. Rose and the others just looked blank. Joseph looked excited.<\/p>\n \u201cWait. Is that a title? Are you famous? Or is that your class? I\u2019m Joseph. [Warrior]. [Mage].\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. Pleased. What level?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUh\u2014Level 4? And 6?\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka stared at Joseph. She looked around. Rose was trying to introduce the others.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is Galina, Troy\u2014hey, where\u2019s Imani?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cComing. She was in her room. Oh my god. Do you have a computer? An iPhone?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI do, but\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShow us!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n It was\u2014Ryoka found the others fighting for her iPhone, despite Rose\u2019s attempts to keep order. Joseph, ignoring the fight over the technology, was trying to explain.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re all sharing devices, but only one of us has a laptop. Mac. So we synched everything up\u2014except for the Androids because\u2026Macs. We don\u2019t have any new songs, and we take turns playing all the games on Troy\u2019s laptop\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh my god! She\u2019s got podcasts! And music! And Pok\u00e9mon!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka turned beet red as the theme song began playing from her iPhone. She nearly grabbed it back, but she turned to Joseph instead. She caught sight of Rose, staring at her.<\/p>\n \u201cHow are you all doing?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood. I mean\u2014we\u2019re Magnolia\u2019s guests. Do you earn a living for yourself? Do you know what happened to Erin? I thought she\u2019d come with us, but she never came back.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe\u2019s fine. I think. She has her own inn.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHer own inn? She\u2019s an [Innkeeper], right. But why is she doing that?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell, she has to earn a living.\u201d<\/p>\n It was like they were from different planets. Or worlds. Rose blinked.<\/p>\n \u201cBut Magnolia offered her a chance to stay. She could come here. Are you staying?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. Actually\u2014stop that, please.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka grabbed at her iPhone. They were going through her pictures. Disappointed, the other kids\u2014they were only a few years younger, but it felt like more\u2014stared at her. Ryoka took a deep breath and met Bekia\u2019s stare.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you do all day? Are you adventurers? That\u2019s what Erin said you were doing.\u201d<\/p>\n The Earthworlders\u2026paused. They didn\u2019t quite meet Ryoka\u2019s eyes. Rose hesitated. She looked at Joseph.<\/p>\n \u201cSome of us tried. But it\u2019s too dangerous.\u201d<\/p>\n Joseph rubbed at his arm.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s really\u2014hard. Turns out killing monsters isn\u2019t our thing. We fought these Goblins\u2014got cut up. It\u2019s\u2014not for us.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. So what do you do?\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka thought she knew the answer. Joseph looked around and waved a hand vaguely.<\/p>\n \u201cWe just go sightseeing. Around. I\u2019m learning a bit of magic, but\u2014it\u2019s hard, you know? We\u2019re all low-level because it takes years<\/em> to get to Level 20! And\u2014we\u2019re from Earth. What can we do? I don\u2019t know how to use a sword or a bow. I\u2019m practicing.\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka looked at Rose. She paused.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m studying to be a [Mage]. I\u2019m Level 11. I think I really have a knack!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re Level 11? Do you have any other classes?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. What\u2019s your class?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t have one.\u201d<\/p>\n The others stared. Even Bekia and Nerrissa.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy not? <\/em>Have you seen what Skills can do? Show them your [Power Strike], Joseph!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot<\/em> inside.\u201d<\/p>\n Bekia barked. The Gnoll restored order as Ryoka had to take a step back. Thankfully, Bekia drew her back, forcing the others to sit<\/em> and have some tea. Rose clearly wanted to talk to her, as did the others, but Ryoka needed one second.<\/p>\n \u201cThey have a stipend. And we clean up for them. From time to time.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll murmured to Ryoka. The City Runner stared at her.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re babying them. That\u2019s why they\u2019re like\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She waved a hand at them. One, Troy, went up to grab his laptop to synch Ryoka\u2019s iPhone. Nerrissa followed him, exasperated. Bekia shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cLady Reinhart did let them try to live alone. They were rather poor at it, no? Hold on\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n As Troy left, someone else entered the parlor. The eighth member of the group. Ryoka saw dark skin, downcast eyes. Imani paused when she saw Ryoka. Bekia turned to her.<\/p>\n \u201cImani, are you well? You look much rested, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll\u2019s voice was much gentler than it was with the others. She led Imani forwards, offering her a cup of tea. The young woman went to Ryoka instead.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n Her eyes were too wide. She looked sleep-deprived too. Ryoka looked at her and remembered something else Erin had said. Something from a phone call. A chat room.<\/p>\n \u201cMy name is Ryoka Griffin. Who are you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m Imani. I\u2019m\u2014you\u2019re from Earth?\u201d<\/p>\n Imani looked Ryoka up and down desperately. Ryoka smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. I\u2019m just like you. I work as a City Runner.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou go outside?\u201d<\/p>\n Imani\u2019s eyes widened in horror. Ryoka nodded. The young woman stared at Bekia.<\/p>\n \u201cBut\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cImani ran into monsters when she first came here.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll murmured quietly. Ryoka looked past Imani at the impatient others. Rose was keeping them back. She was looking at Imani. Ryoka turned to the girl.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat sort of monsters?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTunnel Crawlers. They\u2014we appeared right next to them. Lots of us. We ran. And we got a call\u2014but no one helped us.\u201d<\/p>\n Imani\u2019s voice trembled. Ryoka\u2019s stomach clenched.<\/p>\n \u201cTunnel Crawlers? Oh. Crelers. How\u2019d you\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe got onto the rocks. The big ones. They couldn\u2019t climb the rocks. And the little ones\u2014we kept throwing them off. Or trying to. I was\u2026I was the only one that made it.\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman\u2019s voice broke. Bekia took her shoulder reassuringly. Ryoka didn\u2019t know what to say.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m so sorry. I\u2019ve only ever seen Crelers once. And I ran and reported that nest\u2014I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n She hesitated, then touched Imani\u2019s shoulder. The young woman flinched. But then she looked up at Ryoka.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you here to stay too?\u201d<\/p>\n Ryoka looked past her. Joseph, Rose, Troy, Galina, who was arguing with the others about spilling tea on the expensive couches\u2014Ryoka bit her tongue. Joseph waved at her.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah, are you going to stay, Ryoka? We could use more company!\u201d<\/p>\n You\u2019re all pathetic.<\/em><\/p>\n That was what Ryoka wanted to say. But she didn\u2019t. She really, really wanted to shout it at them. Maybe drop kick Joseph or all of them except Imani. But she didn\u2019t. For one big reason: it wasn\u2019t really their fault.<\/p>\n Okay, it was. But on the other hand\u2014no. Ryoka looked at the expensive mansion, the staff who\u2019d keep the Earthworlders alive, if not always happy. Food on the table, roof over your head\u2014and a stipend. All for nothing.<\/p>\n This is what happened when Magnolia Reinhart didn\u2019t like you. She treated you like, well, like a child. And it was unfortunate that it seemed like it worked.<\/p>\n Ryoka had met people like the Earthworlders. Spoiled, rich children with too much power and wealth. They wanted for nothing except everything. She\u2019d been one of them, in her way. It wasn\u2019t everyone. Some people took wealth, even if they\u2019d grown up in it, and still worked. But Ryoka thought those were the exceptions, rather than the rule. Money changed you. And there was a surfeit of money here that no one had earned.<\/p>\n Perhaps just as Magnolia had intended. Ryoka took a deep breath. She addressed Rose and the others.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not here to stay. I have a job. I am a City Runner, and I can\u2019t stay.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut\u2014why? At least let\u2019s have some drinks. Do you live nearby?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2014not at all. I run around a lot.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re working?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhy\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat did you come here for, then?\u201d<\/p>\n Rose elbowed Joseph and looked at Ryoka. The City Runner nodded to herself. Time to make her pitch. She pointed at Troy\u2019s laptop.<\/p>\n \u201cI want to make a deal. I need your tablets, smartphones, computers\u2014MP3 players, even\u2014anything you\u2019ve got. Every electronic. I\u2019ll return it to you, I promise. But I need to borrow it. For two weeks. Tops.\u201d<\/p>\n The Earthworlders stared at Ryoka. Then someone laughed incredulously. Troy grabbed his laptop.<\/p>\n \u201cAre you kidding? No!\u201d<\/p>\n They reflexively held onto their possessions. Ryoka understood, she really did. It was the last working thing from their world. So she dug at her money pouch.<\/p>\n \u201cHere\u2019s what I\u2019ll pay you to borrow<\/em> them.\u201d<\/p>\n She put down stacks of gold coins onto the table, her entire fortune, almost. She saved twenty gold coins to sweeten the deal and to survive off of. She\u2019d borrow from Fierre if need be, but Ryoka was making a gamble. She doubted Magnolia\u2019s stipend was that high.<\/p>\n And she was right. The Earthworlder\u2019s eyes went round at the sight of all the gold. Troy nearly reached for it.<\/p>\n \u201cHow did you earn all that?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n