The King of Destruction rode to war, and everyone watched. Not directly, but by reactions. In their studio, Noass and Sir Relz scrambled to retell the events, to analyze. Belchan was unresponsive, as was Reim; the nearest nations willing to talk and speculate were Medain and Nerrhavia. And their rulers did.<\/p>\n
They were, of course, appalled. Everyone was. Queen Yisame was pale as she declared war again on Belchan. And when you looked at her face, well\u2014you might realize that she had never seen war up front. Not like that, in detail. She was a [Queen] who had seen the truth of battle for the first time.<\/p>\n
As had many. Wistram was sending out an apology to those who had witnessed the scene and were venting their fury over seeing dead children and blood. Because, that was, of course, unacceptable<\/em> to broadcast. Clearly, Wistram would need to put policies in place. Delay the broadcast in case of traumatic scenes? Issue a warning?<\/p>\n But meanwhile, Yisame and Nerrhavia\u2019s horror was genuine. And that earned her appreciation for her sincerity. Medain\u2019s High King, Perric, struck a different chord. He too condemned the atrocities, but his was a measured tone. He<\/em> had seen death, and you could respect a man who could speak levelly, censuring both Reim and Belchan in equal measures. But it was on Belchan his armies marched, to eat away at the north.<\/p>\n And the world watched it all, of course. That was the new way of things. And\u2014was anyone sick of it? Surely so, like the Titan of Baleros, who rolled his eyes and told Foliana to stop watching the broadcasts.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s politics, Foliana. Politics.<\/em> I\u2019m going back to my chess game. Tell me if they show the actual battles.\u201d<\/p>\n The Squirrel Beastkin woman didn\u2019t respond. She was perched in front of the scrying mirror, nibbling on walnuts and other nuts. There was a little bowl of honey she occasionally dipped them in. This wasn\u2019t a contract; it was just a favorite snack. But she was watching with that absorbed look of someone experiencing broadcast television for the first time. Also\u2026she might have been studying potential targets, but you couldn\u2019t ever get away from the job.<\/p>\n But she was one of many. And the world\u2026<\/p>\n The world watched.<\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n The world, the world, what a stupid thing\u2026it was always \u2018the world\u2019 this, or \u2018everyone\u2019 that. Sometimes the dramas of nations could be stupid. Who cared what the King of Destruction did thousands of miles away? What bearing did it have on here?<\/em><\/p>\n Nothing. And everything. It would not have mattered as much, that war in Belchan, a single dead Gnoll tribe, if Wistram hadn\u2019t broadcast it. If people didn\u2019t pay attention, it wouldn\u2019t have affected everyone. But they had, and the ripples spread wide.<\/p>\n Tails and Scales, one of the best bars in Pallass, was not a happy place that night. Patrons filled the seats, talking urgently, angrily, or hysterically over what they\u2019d seen. Rufelt, at the bar, was suppressing nausea and anger and a sense of vindication<\/em> as he did his job. Lasica had gone to her kitchen to feed her clients. She\u2019d shrugged off Rufelt suggesting she sit down. She wanted to work.<\/em><\/p>\n The bar wasn\u2019t run by just the two of them of course. Their staff was hurrying about. Two apprentice [Bartenders] and some of Lasica\u2019s assistants were serving tables. One of them, a Garuda, took a trio of drinks to a table where two Drakes were sitting.<\/p>\n \u201cApologies for the delay, sirs. I have a large water with ice and lemon, a carrot juice, unsweetened, and a Chaldion\u2019s Eye for uh\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMe. Thank you, young man.\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion glanced up from his conversation with Grimalkin. The Garuda bowed and served the cocktail. It was, in fact, a Firebreath Whiskey and an Ultasian bitter made from the Ultasa flower, all mixed together with some lime.<\/p>\n And if that sounded really bitter and<\/em> sour, well, the key to alleviating the pain was the floating ice ball, carved into the shape of an eye. And inside the already-melting ice was a shot of exceptionally sweet, practically syrupy, wine.<\/p>\n Rufelt\u2019s own blend. It would melt as the drinker imbibed, so long as they had the patience for it. The Chaldion\u2019s Eye was a popular drink in Pallass, especially among the [Strategists]. And the Drake who it had been made for.<\/p>\n \u201cAh.\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion sipped the bitter drink as the Garuda bowed. He was new, so he was still star-struck by the clientele. Grimalkin too; the Sinew Magus\u2019 newfound fame made him stand out. As did the bandages.<\/p>\n \u201cHm. Thank you.\u201d<\/p>\n The two Drakes turned back to their conversation. Around them, the bar buzzed, but the two were fixated on their own conversation. They were, of course, talking about Belchan. They\u2019d both seen the replays, but their own take on the matter was a bit off-kilter to everyone else\u2019s.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s another point in my theory, Grand Strategist. Regardless of the actual origins of the event, you must concede today has not been a normal one.\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion sighed. He was sipping slowly as the ice melted and the syrup began to release. The [Strategist] was quite content with it. This wasn\u2019t a drink you could get in any bar. Let alone the inn he\u2019d just been in. The Wandering Inn had a different feel than Tails and Scales. It was charming, engaging\u2014but lacked the heights of craft of this place.<\/p>\n And that was fine. But Chaldion liked his drinks. He waved a claw idly as he glanced over at the scrying mirror on the far wall. Rufelt had left it active, but everyone was watching it warily. Pallass\u2019 own Noass and Sir Relz were on it, a mark of pride of the city, but they\u2019d been apologizing non-stop for the vivid depiction of violence. Now they had another [Strategist], from Manus, giving his thoughts on the matter.<\/p>\n \u201cMagus, you\u2019re conflating the issues. The actions of the King of Destruction, or other nations across the world, cannot<\/em> be the product of one [Innkeeper]\u2019s Skills.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin leaned on the table as he drank from his very large vessel of water. Hydration was important! He raised his clawed hand and shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cOf course not, Grand Strategist. However, I will put forwards these two points. One\u2014the actions occurred in a timeline where we interacted with Erin Solstice, and were distracted again<\/em>, after her use of her new Skill. It bears adding to my list of data points. Secondly\u2014where are we now? Are we at Erin Solstice\u2019s inn, inquiring about her origins or Skills and levels?\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion paused. His one good eye narrowed.<\/p>\n \u201cTrue. But this has<\/em> to be a coincidence.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd if it\u2019s not? Let\u2019s leave aside the incident with the King of Destruction. Her Skill, the disappearance of the child, Mrsha. Either Erin Solstice really is as oblivious as she seems, or\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo one who plays chess like she does is that airheaded. She magnificently deflected all of our questions. And she beat my [Path to Victory].\u201d<\/p>\n The old Drake\u2019s eye narrowed, and then, unexpectedly, he smiled. He was quite pleased by that last bit. Grimalkin eyed him.<\/p>\n \u201cIf I might inquire, Grand Strategist\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cChaldion is fine, Magus Grimalkin.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin nodded briefly.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2014Then if it is not a matter of security, your Skill. I have always been fascinated by the higher-level Skills as data on them is sparse. When you say she defeated\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion raised his left eye patch. The gem in his eye flashed, creating a bubble of privacy. He spoke casually as Grimalkin switched to his carrot juice.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s no large secret. I\u2019ve used it so many times that it\u2019s public record, as you well know. It can be defeated; it just shows me one route to victory in any given battle. Not even the optimal one. It has vast utility, but it\u2019s hardly impregnable. Miss Solstice saw me use it; she was able to change her entire strategy and defeat me. But that was a mark of her skill<\/em> at the game. The third time we played and I used my Skill, she won.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cFascinating. And my assertion?\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion drummed his claws on the table and nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cYou have my full agreement. I may personally investigate this matter, along with you; I doubt an agent would have much success. But I have put out an inquiry on her.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin paused, mid-drink.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNothing.\u201d<\/p>\n The Magus put down his drink and paused for a moment.<\/p>\n \u201cHardly surprising for a Human no one\u2019s heard about. Or so the other Walled Cities might assert.\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion\u2019s eyes glinted.<\/p>\n \u201cYes. If I hadn\u2019t met her, I\u2019d say that, too.\u201d<\/p>\n The two Drakes paused significantly. But before they could speculate longer, there was an aggrieved shout from the bar.<\/p>\n \u201cDead gods take it, Saliss! We told you you\u2019re not allowed in here without at least pants! You\u2019re putting people off their food!\u201d<\/p>\n Rufelt was not<\/em> in a good mood. And Saliss had just emerged from the bathroom. His claws were clean, but, to put it delicately, he had neither had to remove or put on any articles of clothing throughout his entire process. He was still naked.<\/p>\n \u201cRufelt! Come on. Have a heart!\u201d<\/p>\n Saliss protested, spreading his claws. Rufelt glared.<\/p>\n \u201cThere are paying customers<\/em>. You\u2019re one of them. Clothes on or you go out. I\u2019m not arguing tonight, Saliss\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n He was interrupted by a Gnoll pushing towards him. The Gnoll had dark black fur and a dark look in his eyes. He leaned on the bar, heavily.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t care about naked Drakes. Just get me a drink, Rufelt. Bartender\u2019s specialty.\u201d<\/p>\n That was code for \u2018give me what I need\u2019. Rufelt, as a high-level [Bartender], could tailor his drinks to his clientele. Usually it was a delicate game, teasing out the emotions or state of drunk they needed to be\u2014or not be. But tonight Rufelt didn\u2019t even have to think. He reached for a glass.<\/p>\n \u201cA Salaszarian Rockhammer, coming up, Felkhr.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll, who was a guest tonight, nodded. He was the Flying Gnoll of Pallass, another one of those faces. Rufelt had invited him to Tails and Scales after the Wyvern attack for free food, but Felkhr was a regular. He had stopped coming as much when Tails and Scales became fancy, but their encounter had brought him back into the bar. Felkhr saw Rufelt fill the glass with ice, mix up the steady drink\u2014and then add something from a bottle.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s that?\u201d<\/p>\n Rufelt glanced up as he slid the drink over, without his usual flourishes.<\/p>\n \u201cCalming drink. Everyone needs them tonight. Xif, Saliss, sell me some more of your tonics. We need it.\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake [Alchemist] paused. He dug in his bag of holding and a Gnoll sitting across from him did the same. Xif, the other top [Alchemist] of Pallass, shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cI can send a Runner unless you have some, Saliss\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo problem, Xif. I always carry\u2014aha! Got them. Here, Rufelt!\u201d<\/p>\n He flung them across the bar. Everyone in the path ducked<\/em> and Rufelt swore. But the potions, all five of them in small vials, slowed<\/em> as they arced towards his bar. They landed without so much as cracking the glass.<\/p>\n Rufelt glared at Saliss. The Drake waved. But he was toning down his usual riot act. Rufelt nodded. He began pouring the rest of the calming tonic into the drinks he was serving.<\/p>\n Felkhr sighed as he drained half of his drink. His fur had been standing on edge. Now, he relaxed. But his grip on the glass tumbler was still strong.<\/p>\n \u201cHumans.\u201d<\/p>\n That was all he said. But half of the Gnolls around him nodded. Rufelt said nothing as Lasica emerged from the kitchen. Felkhr amended his statement.<\/p>\n \u201cSome of them are decent. But that\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHave another drink. I\u2019m doubling up your tonic. Something sour to chase that down with.\u201d<\/p>\n Rufelt advised Felkhr. The Gnoll sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you. It\u2019s one thing to know or hear about it, but to see it\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re all shaken. No one\u2019s denying that. Apologies for the delay, Magus, Grand Strategist. Here is tonight\u2019s special, Chaldion\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Lasica was being followed by orders of food. The [Chef] came to the two Drakes\u2019 table to deliver their orders personally. Chaldion eyed the dish placed in front of them.<\/p>\n \u201cInteresting. What is this?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n He stared at the neatly, even artfully sliced fish on the rice and colorful little bites wrapped in the roll. Well, some were wrapped\u2014some just looked like literal raw fish on rice. And there were little dishes with sauces\u2026<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ve heard it\u2019s called \u2018sushi\u2019 by Erin, but it\u2019s a traditional Dullahan and Drathian food. Raw fish, rice, seaweed\u2014there are variations, but this is Magus Grimalkin\u2019s request.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA Balerosian dish.\u201d<\/p>\n Grimalkin was nodding. Then his eyes narrowed.<\/p>\n \u201cDid you say Miss Solstice had a specific name for it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe has names for everything, Magus.\u201d<\/p>\n Lasica shrugged, unconcerned. Grimalkin gave Chaldion a significant look. The Grand Strategist nodded, his expression calm.<\/p>\n \u201cAh, I\u2019ve had this. Zeres serves it too. Most excellent, Miss Lasica.\u201d<\/p>\n She smiled. Grimalkin raised one claw.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll need eight more portions, Chef Lasica. I am attempting to build up my muscles. How about two more of these sushi plates, a stir fry of meats and noodles and vegetables, a steak, no, three\u2014Wyvern cuts? And\u2026any suggestions?\u201d<\/p>\n Lasica eyed Grimalkin. He was thinner<\/em> than before, but his list of food was making even some of the [Gourmands] who liked to frequent her bar look queasy.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll throw in some shrimp\u2014fresh from Zeres. I have a quinoa for Saliss\u2014I\u2019ll make two portions. Would you like some lard too, Magus? In a bucket?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll think about it.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Chef] shook her head as she went back to the kitchen. Grimalkin turned back to his food as he and Chaldion began to eat. He did not shovel his food; the two Drakes used the lacquered chopsticks they\u2019d been given to eat. Grimalkin was rather adept and Chaldion remembered how to use his in moments.<\/p>\n Grimalkin ate methodically, savoring and chewing each bite. If he hadn\u2019t, Lasica probably would have stopped serving him long ago. She had no room in her establishment for scarfers.<\/p>\n And to be ejected from the bar was to lose your access to it, and that was no light thing. Tails and Scales was one of the<\/em> best establishments in all of Pallass. That meant husband and wife could cultivate the clientele they wanted.<\/p>\n Rufelt and Lasica had created a very selective clientele. They had a group which were pleasant to serve, got along with each other most of the time, and could pay for quality. And that number expanded seldom and usually by invitation by way of friend, sponsoring. You couldn\u2019t walk into Tails and Scales without being on the list.<\/p>\n Literally. Rufelt had a Skill. [Bar: Selective Admission]. It could literally keep anyone below his level from casually walking in. But emergencies and higher-level individuals were an exception.<\/p>\n And that happened now. The door to the bar burst open and a Dullahan hurried into the room. Or rather\u2014his head. Rufelt looked up from the bar as the apprentice Dullahan hurried him over.<\/p>\n It was rare to see a Dullahan without their body, but the strange, armored folk of Baleros could separate body parts and send them long distances. Usually only a hundred feet, but with practice, you could go further. It was said the Seer of Steel could control his body thousands of miles from his head.<\/p>\n In this case, the Dullahan was doing this on purpose. He was another [Bartender], whose body could make drinks while his head spoke or interacted with his clients. Tonight, however, the head looked anxious, which meant, for a Dullahan, he was panicking.<\/p>\n \u201cRufelt! I must seek your help.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter, Yeart?\u201d<\/p>\n Rufelt didn\u2019t stop fixing his drink, but he turned to the Dullahan as his assistant put the head on the counter and stepped back, bowing. Yeart looked up at Rufelt, worry written all across his face.<\/p>\n \u201cMy bar is under siege. You know I just bought a scrying orb? I had a full bar when it happened.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh no. Were there\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Yeart nodded, miserably. It was difficult without a neck, but Dullahans could do it.<\/p>\n \u201cSome of the Gnoll families had children watching the broadcast! They\u2019re all howling and I need something to serve them! The parents too!\u201d<\/p>\n Rufelt cursed. Few of his clients had children, but he could just imagine the scene. He looked around.<\/p>\n \u201cXif, calming tonics. Can Yeart buy some from you?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSend a Runner. I\u2019ll bill him later.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll raised a paw. Rufelt nodded to Yeart. The Dullahan was concentrating. His actual body was writing out a request to be fulfilled immediately by a Street Runner; they often lingered around bars or places where they knew they\u2019d find steady work.<\/p>\n \u201cHow heavy are the Gnoll kids, Yeart?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUm\u2014young. Some are barely old enough to understand what went on, but the ones who are old enough to know what happened must be\u2014ten? Eight? And older!\u201d<\/p>\n Rufelt nodded. He grabbed the calming tonic and brought it down so the Dullahan could see. He shot a drink sideways as he made a second one, demonstrating.<\/p>\n \u201cListen up. You give them one drop per three stones of weight. Estimate low instead of high. Don\u2019t mix it with alcohol for the kids. Give them milk, juice, and mix it in\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo milk.\u201d<\/p>\n The two [Alchemists] chorused instantly. Rufelt and Yeart looked over, the Dullahan apprentice turning the [Bartender]\u2019s head. Saliss waved one claw.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right, no milk. Not if it\u2019s the whole thing. A tiny amount\u2019s good, but milk reacts with the calming tonic. Juice is fine. No carrot juice, though. Carrots mess with potions.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWho drinks carrots\u2014?\u201d<\/p>\n Yeart\u2019s mystified voice was lost as Rufelt kept giving him orders. At his table, Grimalkin snorted. Chaldion smiled as he pulled something out of his bag of holding.<\/p>\n \u201cDoesn\u2019t that Courier drink it too, Magus? Hawk.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe put me onto it. A nutritious drink. I\u2019ve persuaded Miss Lasica to keep a stock\u2014with some of her classic infusions for muscular growth. Both he and I drink it.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Chef] was known for her ability to make food that would make you shed weight no matter how much you ate. She could also make dishes that gave you energy all day, and so on. Erin was taking lessons from her.<\/p>\n Grimalkin eyed the roll of paper that Chaldion had pulled out. A small box, actually. It was a thick cigar, known as a \u2018puffer\u2019 colloquially. Recreational drugs had an uneasy relationship in Drake cities most of the time, and they were almost always imported from overseas.<\/p>\n \u201cWhere did you get that, Grand Strategist?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe Centaur offered me some. Palt, I believe. Wistram has its tentacles in the inn, Magus.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo I noted. Did I recount the incident with them to you, Chaldion?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo. But do tell. Hm. Not a bad gift or bribe, whichever he intended. Would you care for one?\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion offered a cigar to Grimalkin. The Magus shook his head. He stared as a hand tried to sneak up over the table. Chaldion brought his fork down.<\/p>\n He missed. Saliss yanked his claw out of the way just in time. The Named Adventurer poked his head over the table with a huge smile. Xif wore a pained expression as he watched his dining partner. Saliss looked at Chaldion with as serious a face as he could muster.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s the Assembly\u2019s policy on substances in Pallass, Grand Strategist Chaldion?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t recall, you brat. Here. Give me yours.\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion flicked a cigar at Saliss. The [Alchemist] caught it, and flicked his claws. The cigar lit instantly; the Drake had conjured sparks with a little snap of the claws. He puffed twice and rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cWeeeeak. But I suppose it\u2019s the best a non-Alchemist can make. Here.\u201d<\/p>\n He fished out two dark purple-brown cigars from his bag of holding. Xif coughed\u2014Saliss flicked out a third and spun it across the bar.<\/p>\n \u201cIf you\u2019re handing those out, Saliss\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Rufelt caught the two flying his way. Other people hopefully called out and Saliss demonstrated his uncanny ability to throw. He was in a generous mood, and this was another reason why people tolerated his nudity and personality. Palt might have had decent quality, but he wouldn\u2019t find a large market in Pallass if he tried selling his wares here.<\/p>\n \u201cMagus.\u201d<\/p>\n Saliss offered Grimalkin the cigar with a grin. Chaldion was already lighting his. Grimalkin held up a claw.<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t smoke. I regulate all my intakes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t be a lizard, Magus. We could all use one. This had better not be one of your prank ones, Saliss. Or I will throw you in the deepest cell.\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion sighed. Grimalkin hesitated. He eyed the cigar and at last, took it, muttering.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026I suppose I could check my physical changes. I am eating enough to throw off my nutritional charts anyways.\u201d<\/p>\n He accepted it and lit it with one claw. The Magus inhaled, coughed\u2014Saliss grinned as he gyrated back to Xif\u2019s table.<\/p>\n \u201cWhere were we, Xif? Ah, right. That fire helps cut some of my processes in half. Nice flame; has a magical influence on what it burns. Useful, once I figure out how to optimize it.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll\u2019s eyes lit up. They were, as always, comparing alchemical notes.<\/p>\n \u201cYou wouldn\u2019t happen to have a sample of this marvelous fire, would you, Saliss?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure do. Like I said, it burns fuel way<\/em> too fast. But it works on wood; I just can\u2019t let it go out, since Miss Solstice doesn\u2019t look like she\u2019ll give me any more easily. When I\u2019m not there, I have to feed it with charcoal or even magicore; I need a device to toss wood at the fire so it always has something to eat. Then it\u2019ll be cheap. I\u2019m going to bug an [Engineer] about it tomorrow.\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll [Alchemist] had discolored fur and smelled of\u2026everything. Mostly acrid powders or substances, even when he washed. He was the best [Alchemist] in the city\u2014or second-best, if you counted Saliss. But while one was specialized mostly towards war, Xif was specialized towards selling his creations. Naturally, the two were friends. It was that or rivals.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can leave it with me. I\u2019d be happy to look after it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHah! Go eat your tail, Xif.\u201d<\/p>\n Saliss grinned over his shrimp quinoa. Xif sighed; the dark cigar lay at the table, for later. Rufelt had already deployed one of his apprentices with an anti-scent tonic to dab surreptitiously around the bar. It cut some of the good smells, but it meant each booth wouldn\u2019t bother other customers with the smoking.<\/p>\n \u201cCome now, I\u2019ll pay you well\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGive me some of your flowers. What\u2019ve you<\/em> found?\u201d<\/p>\n The Gnoll sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s psychedelic. Extremely so. Magically\u2014I tried an anti-magic blocker, but it went through it. Not sure if I\u2019m missing the components, but it keeps reacting differently. Raw, the nectar has one effect. Mix it with alcohol, and\u2014well, I saw my parents.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow awful.\u201d<\/p>\n Saliss\u2019 face was straight. Xif ignored that.<\/p>\n \u201cAlmost every bit of it is strongly magical. If I had more, I\u2019d test it, but I\u2019m sure it\u2019s a high<\/em>-magic sample. As good as Sage\u2019s Grass. It must be due to that inn. The ambient magic is high enough to grow it\u2026I regret pushing Miss Solstice so fast. But I must have more.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCan\u2019t you take some cuttings?\u201d<\/p>\n Xif glowered.<\/p>\n \u201cThey\u2019re extremely<\/em> hard to grow. I tried with Miss Velaaia. Twice! They died. I\u2019m not risking my one sample; I\u2019m sending it to Oteslia.\u201d<\/p>\n The Drake\u2019s brows shot up.<\/p>\n \u201cVelaaia failed? They must be hard to grow! I wonder how Erin did it. Say, you do that. I\u2019ll just get more fire from her. And flowers.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t you dare. I\u2019ll have them\u2014I\u2019ve been meaning to stop by again. Maybe with a little gift. I\u2019ll tell you what, Saliss. You can probably make a potent sleeping agent. Burning the petals when dried creates an amazing soporific effect\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOoh. Do tell. Can I see it?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n The two [Alchemist]\u2019s banter was an anomaly in a sea of talk that all went invariably one way. Belchan, the Gnoll tribes. Tails and Scales was discussing what they\u2019d seen. In fact, Chaldion and Grimalkin soon became a center of that discussion.<\/p>\n \u201cOteslia will not <\/em>send an army. Neither will Zeres or the other Walled Cities; the declaration of war was symbolic.\u201d<\/p>\n Chaldion was reassuring some clients. He\u2019d been communicating with the other Walled Cities. He sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cOteslia does have the highest Gnoll-to-Drake population of all the Walled Cities. The Grand Gardener must have decided to make the declaration.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd now it\u2019s war. Good. I say that nation deserves it.\u201d<\/p>\n Felkhr nodded. A cluster of Gnolls and Drakes were sitting together. One of the other Drakes waved a claw.<\/p>\n \u201cBut it\u2019s the King of Destruction! He might have cause, but this could all be some\u2014trick.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTrick?\u201d<\/p>\n All the Gnolls present looked at the Drake. She wavered.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, not a trick<\/em>, trick. But a\u2014casus belli<\/em>. You know? He\u2019s still the King of Destruction. We shouldn\u2019t be glad he\u2019s attacking Belchan. This is exactly what we should be worried about. He was bound by his oath, and if he gets stronger\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n Another Gnoll slowly ground her cigar into an ashtray.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd? The King of Destruction\u2019s gotten a lot of talk, but I don\u2019t remember him ever attacking Gnoll tribes. Seems like there was one good Human I just saw. And it wasn\u2019t Belchan.\u201d<\/p>\n That provoked a lot of nods, again from the Gnolls. They were angry. The Drakes were worried, but the Gnolls\u2014more than one was nodding at the King of Destruction. Chaldion sipped from his drink, watching carefully as they spoke.<\/p>\n \u201cI remember back when I used to live with my tribe. There were some cities we never went near. Ever. One time, we had to stop at one and the first thing I smelled was a hide cloak. Made of\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Felkhr made a disgusted sound. Some of the Drakes looked uneasy. But the other Gnolls were nodding.<\/p>\n \u201cSmall tribes have it worst. I thought I recognized that Chieftain. Nelrra. Um\u2014um\u2014his tribe\u2019s the Dustfur clan. That\u2019s the one.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s not all<\/em> like that. Surely\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat would you know? Pallass is one thing. But when they talk about some of the cities\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cChandrar looks just as bad.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut they have a [King] who went to war for them. That\u2019s something.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut they\u2019re not going to the Meeting of Tribes. Or will they?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSurely not. But when you think about it, look\u2014I\u2019m not saying I support the King of Destruction. But\u2026<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhite fur, all of them. Do you think it\u2019s really true that\u2014?\u201d<\/p>\n Worrying talk, for some. Rufelt kept his face straight. But Chaldion could see the writing as if someone was indeed scrawling it on the walls. The Gnolls in Pallass, across Izril, were thinking. And their opinion of the King of Destruction was changing.<\/p>\n Grimalkin kept his own counsel, plowing through his food. But he kept a single sushi on one of his plates. And he kept staring at it. The almost unburned cigar lay next to the plate. The Magus frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cSushi.\u201d<\/p>\n He would remember that.<\/em><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n When the world shifted, butterflies across the world caught indigestion. Or something like that. But concretely, the events such as the war in Belchan could add a dimension to the thinking of Gnolls in Drake cities. It could inform and change the Meeting of Tribes, move a Walled City, from Pallass to Oteslia.<\/p>\n And sometimes, it didn\u2019t matter at all. It was just entertainment. Horrible, but true. Sometimes it would never matter. And what concerned the fate, rights, and dignity of Gnolls mattered little to\u2026everyone else.<\/p>\n Elsewhere, in a farmhouse, Wailant Strongheart leaned back in his plush chair. He waved a hand and nearly sloshed his drink out of his cup.<\/p>\n \u201cFuck, that\u2019s interesting. Sounds like there\u2019s gonna be another war. Shame about those Gnoll kids. What\u2019s the white fur mean again? That little Gnoll who came over had it. Another drink? Here.\u201d<\/p>\n He waved a bottle at his guest. Said guest refused, and Wailant shrugged.<\/p>\n He was a humble [Farmer], in his farmhouse, entertaining a guest. Although that sentence got almost every nuance of the situation completely wrong.<\/p>\n Wailant Strongheart was a [Farmer]. He was also a [Pirate]. He had retired, but he was still almost as fit as he\u2019d been in his heyday of marauding the seas. He had tattoos, some of them magical, and an enchanted cutlass.<\/p>\n He was not wearing the cutlass now, but reclining in a chair in his farmhouse. And yes, it was a farmhouse in that it was a house on his farm. But it was hardly\u2026rustic.<\/p>\n The home Strongheart had built for his family was large, and extravagant. Not on the level of, say, the nobility, but a rich place. There were paintings by [Artists], one of a ship caught in the middle of a storm, the second a portrait shot of Wailant, his wife, and his family. There was a little girl in the frame.<\/p>\n Wailant also had a hardwood floor carpeted by a Chandrarian rug. He had a library of books over there\u2014two shelves of neatly arranged tomes, a few old sea maps, and his furniture was all padded. No hardwood back rest for the [Farmer] taking his ease.<\/p>\n Right now, Wailant was sitting at a table filled with food. The remains of dinner, rather. He\u2019d had a bowl of the stuff, with some long-grained rice.<\/p>\n It was fried bits of dough and meat. Dumplings. And Wailant actually had this fermented black sauce. It was food from overseas, again. He\u2019d broken it out as a rare treat and to entertain his guest with.<\/p>\n His guest was a Hobgoblin, incidentally. Numbtongue sat in the chair, staring at the small scrying mirror that Wailant had bought to see what all this fuss was about. The Hobgoblin was still a bit tense.<\/p>\n Firstly, because he\u2019d just witnessed the dead Gnolls, the [King] declaring war, and the Hobgoblin felt like he was almost in the proximity of that raging Human, for all he was thousands of miles away. Numbtongue couldn\u2019t help but wonder how you killed a Human like that.<\/em><\/p>\n He could tell that Human was strong just by the way he walked; he looked like a Redfang in how he moved. Deliberate. Trained. So had the others with him, and strong Humans made Goblins nervous.<\/p>\n The second reason Numbtongue was tense was because he was here. In aforementioned farmhouse, with Wailant and\u2026he turned as someone came from the kitchen.<\/p>\n \u201cDid I miss anything?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNothing, love. Just them showing this High King or whatsit. Medain. I remember sailing there once. Ornery bastards, all of them. You can get into a fight with adventurers in any bar in the port. We have any more of the good wine?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant waved his cup. His wife, Viceria Strongheart and a [Green Mage] from Wistram, came out. She had a bottle in her hands.<\/p>\n \u201cBefore we drink, dear\u2014a word?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant paused in gulping his wine. He stood up slowly. Viceria smiled at Numbtongue.<\/p>\n \u201cOne moment, Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin stared. He had had a dinner here. After Wailant had helped smuggle him from Celum, he\u2019d found himself invited\u2014dragged, really\u2014to the Strongheart family farm.<\/p>\n It was a fairly small farm, if you compared it to, say, what Erin might have thought of as a farm from her world. Wailant worked only a few fields, and they were all small. But they had tremendous yields, faster than a regular field by two or even four times. And one of his specialties was the beloved and expensive Sage\u2019s Grass.<\/p>\n It had made the man rich. Wailant, along with his wife, were decent [Farmers], but they were both high-level enough to protect a farm like this themselves. They had magical fences, wards, and\u2014well, Numbtongue had met Viceria.<\/p>\n She was a lovely woman, with brown hair tied back in a braid that reached down to her waist. She wore a robe at home, and she looked younger than she was. Numbtongue only knew she was older because Wailant had told him, and his wife had laughed and kicked Wailant under the table.<\/p>\n The surreal part was how polite she was to Numbtongue. And how relaxed Wailant was. They\u2019d drawn him into their home, treating him like any other guest. And for the Hobgoblin, that<\/em> was a strange experience.<\/p>\n He\u2019d been relieved that the dinner had been mostly watching the events at Belchan. Numbtongue began to eat more of the dumplings with rice as he listened to the couple in the kitchen. He had good ears and he was still hungry.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s the matter? Is this about Celum?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, it is. Don\u2019t dodge me again, Wailant. Bringing back a guest? I know something happened. Tell me.\u201d<\/p>\n A pause. Wailant coughed.<\/p>\n \u201cOkay, so I may have been banned\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWailant!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cListen, hear me out. There was this [Merchant], see\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue listened to Wailant\u2019s version of the events as he filled his bowl again. What a strange place. Wailant was apparently Garia\u2019s father. And he seemed nice. Numbtongue had still picked an escape route in case this turned out to be a trap. Side window. Two steps and he\u2019d go through. He was pretty sure the food wasn\u2019t poisoned, too, but you never knew.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2014So, there I was, and she rolls on past me with a smirk. I may<\/em> have done something to her wheels, but I asked her to move first! And then, er, well, she hired a bunch of [Mercs] to threaten me!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you slapped her. Wailant\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n The man\u2019s voice was guilty. Viceria sighed quietly. Numbtongue stared at the two Drakes gesticulating to a map in the scrying orb.<\/p>\n \u201cWailant\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know, I know.<\/em> But you should have seen that woman\u2019s face! Riding about as if she owned the road because she had a better class than mine.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI understand, believe me, Wailant, dear. But we can\u2019t afford to lose more clients\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll take care of it. If I have to find \u2018em myself. I can ride to Remendia or Wales tomorrow. It\u2019ll be fine, Vicci. We\u2019re not lacking for gold and we could pawn half of the stuff here if we had to\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s not the point.\u201d<\/p>\n Another sigh. Numbtongue\u2019s ears twitched. Wailant paused.<\/p>\n \u201cI know. I\u2019ll mind myself. Maybe see about paying a fine? If it takes an apology to get them to let me in faster\u2014I\u2019ll do it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThank you. And we\u2019ll go together to Remendia.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019ll set up the wards. But we go together.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant made a grumbling noise, but he must have agreed because Numbtongue heard nothing more for a second. After a moment, Wailant spoke.<\/p>\n \u201cYou haven\u2019t asked me about the Goblin this entire night, my darling.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue eyed the window. And here was his moment\u2026or was the door better? He had seen the trap runes on the door, but they hadn\u2019t activated. Yet.<\/p>\n But Viceria\u2019s voice was lightly amused.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat about him? I assumed he was the same Goblin that Garia mentioned. Or is it five?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue stopped eating for a moment. Then, he continued eating because it was good food. His old comrades would have approved of eating.<\/p>\n \u201cDidn\u2019t ask. Let\u2019s go ask the bugger, shall we?\u201d<\/p>\n The two reappeared from the kitchen. Numbtongue waved at them as if he hadn\u2019t heard a thing. Viceria smiled as she sat down.<\/p>\n \u201cApologies, Numbtongue, was it? Would you like another drink?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Yes. Please?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue stared as Viceria reached for the wine bottle.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll have some too, lady love.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant lifted his glass hopefully. Viceria shot him a cool look and served Numbtongue first. The Hobgoblin felt like someone was pulling a prank on him. He hoped it was Erin.<\/p>\n This couple was beyond strange for one reason. Not because they were hospitable. Erin was beyond hospitable and the awe of that had actually faded with time. Just a bit. But Wailant and Viceria were different from even Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, you told me a bit of how you got here. Mind sharing it again? Wait till you hear this, Vicci. This Hob apparently fought his way through the Goblin Lord\u2019s lot, ended up near Liscor in that inn Garia likes. Some kind of elite Hobgoblin tribe.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cReally? Do tell us. The Goblin Lord\u2019s army passed by Celum, but our home was left alone.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGood thing for them. The cellar\u2019s strong enough to keep all of \u2018em out and they\u2019d have died by the hundreds on the trap spells. Don\u2019t glare, Vicci! I can say that\u2014he\u2019s not one of the Goblin Lord\u2019s buddies. I think. Right?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant snorted. Viceria smiled as she filled her husband\u2019s glass. The Hobgoblin surreptitiously sniffed the drink. But he was sure neither was drunk yet.<\/p>\n Numbtongue had never met anyone who didn\u2019t care.<\/em> Not about him being a Hobgoblin in Celum; that was why Wailant had brought him to his home. And he\u2019d certainly tried to beat Numbtongue into a pulp when he\u2019d thought the Hob was a threat.<\/p>\n But when he knew what Numbtongue was, he didn\u2019t really seem to\u2026care. Again, not about the fact that Numbtongue was a Hobgoblin who\u2019d survived against all odds. Wailant respected that. But the sheer fact of Numbtongue being a Goblin who could think? Speak? Wailant Strongheart took that at face value.<\/p>\n Even Erin treated it as a fact to be shared as far and wide as possible. But Wailant didn\u2019t. It was as natural as breathing. A fascination to meet a friendly Goblin to be sure, but not miraculous. He explained after Numbtongue had recounted his adventurers in brief.<\/p>\n \u201cSee, I\u2019m not surprised to find a Hob who can speak. Vicci is, but she\u2019s being polite. <\/em>And she\u2019s Wistram. Used to weird things.\u201d<\/p>\n He grinned at his wife. Viceria smiled at Numbtongue. She had her own cup, which she\u2019d filled with a generous helping of wine.<\/p>\n Numbtongue felt awkward around her; a Human that smiled at him was a rare thing and immediately made him want to check for hidden daggers. He didn\u2019t know her, like Erin or Lyonette, or Octavia and Drassi. He didn\u2019t trust her.<\/p>\n \u201cMy husband lacks tact, Numbtongue. But I am open to new meetings. I do<\/em> know Goblins aren\u2019t savages.\u201d<\/p>\n She gave Wailant a look<\/em>. He shrugged apologetically as he took a gulp. Viceria raised her cup\u2014and downed it.<\/p>\n Numbtongue paused. The wine was strong. He was on his second cup, as was Wailant. Viceria caught up in one go, and filled her cup. Then she took another deep gulp. Numbtongue had to sniff the jar surreptitiously, but it was the same wine. Wailant laughed as he saw that.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd my girl calls me<\/em> a lush. Well, I get properly drunk. Viceria\u2014she\u2019s from Wistram. And [Pirate] ships run out of alcohol! My lady love has two bags of holding in each boot.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue looked. Viceria had sandals on. The Hobgoblin blushed mildly as she wiggled her toes and winked at him.<\/p>\n \u201cYou were saying, Wailant?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight. Goblins. I\u2019ve met more of you lot. At sea.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue nearly dropped his bowl of rice. Wailant grinned at his expression.<\/p>\n \u201cSurprised? \u2018Swhy I knew you weren\u2019t a monster. Mind you, it surprised the hell out of me when you appeared. Sorry for knocking you around a bit. Don\u2019t know my own strength. And I\u2019m good on land or sea.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue shrugged and muttered into his cup.<\/p>\n \u201cI didn\u2019t use my guitar. Didn\u2019t want to hurt you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHah! <\/em>See? I knew I liked this one.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant reached over and slapped<\/em> Numbtongue on the back. Viceria laughed at Numbtongue\u2019s expression. She floated over a bowl of cold dumplings and made them hot again.<\/p>\n \u201cBut Goblins are monsters. Everyone knows that. Not at sea?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant shook his head in response to Numbtongue\u2019s question.<\/p>\n \u201cGoblins? Monsters? Sure, we know what everyone says. Goblin Kings? Bastards. But Goblins, savages? That\u2019s just what they tell you, in your fancy landfolk nations. Even in Izril; you think you\u2019re free, but all you know is what Wistram and all the other rulers tell you. Like that line about Rhir, \u2018the Blighted Kingdom\u2019, hah!\u201d<\/p>\n He was half-talking to Numbtongue as a representation of \u2018landfolk\u2019, half to Viceria. She sighed; it sounded like an old quarrel.<\/p>\n \u201cWailant, they\u2019re right about Rhir.\u201d<\/p>\n The former [Pirate] rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n \u201cPah, you\u2019ve never met them, Vicci. Demons aren\u2019t so bad. They\u2019re a folk. Drowned Men and [Pirates] trade with them. So do some of the Dullahans. And Drathians. They\u2019re not any more monstrous than the things you can find in the Blighted Kingdom. Like their damned [Flesh Reapers]. I\u2019ve never been far inland, but the Demons are just people. No worse than their enemies, or places like Roshal.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s Roshal?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue was embarrassed by the laughter. But Wailant explained, pointing at one of his maps. It was of the world, in miniature. The ends of the world were clearly marked on either end, as were major ports. The one he pointed to was on the southwestern side of Chandrar.<\/p>\n \u201cSlave port. Lailight Scintillation, the port-capital of Roshal and the Market of Fables. One of the wonders of the world. You take prisoners, you sell them there. And you never cross the [Slavers]. It\u2019s a wondrous place. So long as you don\u2019t stare too hard at the shadows. I looked, once. And I never went ashore again. I\u2019ve been around<\/em>, you see.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you know so much more than any [Mage] or educated sort.\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria raised her brows. Wailant scowled.<\/p>\n \u201cI know enough to know what\u2019s whale shit. I\u2019ve seen Goblins at sea. In [Pirate] ships, no less! Even once or twice on their own ships. Nasty buggers in a fight, but they leave you alone unless they\u2019re<\/em> [Pirates]. You can even trade with \u2018em. If you think they won\u2019t gut you as soon as you lower the gangplank. But that was how I<\/em> was raised. Not on tales of Goblins as primitive monsters and so on.\u201d<\/p>\n He pointed at the scrying orb.<\/p>\n \u201cWistram is the worst of \u2018em all! Damned liars, the lot. Always plotting and tricking people. You saw how they were setting up those freaks in A\u2019ctelios? They were trying to set up the King of Destruction. Only, they got caught in their own trap. Shifty bastards.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue looked sideways at Viceria. She was rolling her eyes, exasperated.<\/p>\n \u201cIsn\u2019t your wife from Wistram?\u201d<\/p>\n The couple laughed. Wailant took another gulp.<\/p>\n \u201cDamned right! I married one of the sneakiest! Don\u2019t be surprised by her nice demeanor. She\u2019s craftier than I am, and twice as evil. That\u2019s how I know they\u2019re crooked as a [Seductress] with a shiv hidden across her back! Or hidden up her\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n He leaned over and whispered into Numbtongue\u2019s ear. The Hobgoblin paused.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026No.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHappened once to a fellow I knew. Then she stabbed the rest of him. It happened, I swear it on salt!\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue edged away from Wailant a bit. Viceria looked at him and laid a hand on her husband\u2019s arm.<\/p>\n \u201cI think it\u2019s time we let our guest speak, Wailant.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight, right. Hey, Numbtongue. You ever been to sea?\u201d<\/p>\n It was a challenge. Wailant grinned, knowing the answer. Numbtongue frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cNo. But I have been in the High Passes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cReally?\u201d<\/p>\n Both Viceria and Wailant looked up. The [Pirate] gave Numbtongue another look up and down.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019d you fight there. Anything nasty?\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin shrugged, face straight.<\/p>\n \u201cNot too bad. Do you know Gargoyles?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant waved off the bravado.<\/p>\n \u201cGargoyles are tiny bastards compared to a Kraken<\/em>. You know them? Fleet-killers. Like Sword Whales\u2014they literally crack ships apart unless they\u2019re enchanted! Or\u2014Reefeyes. You drop in the water with those and you\u2019re as good as dead unless you\u2019re at least<\/em> Level 30 or your mates haul you out in seconds. Land monsters\u2014hah! What\u2019ve you killed on land that\u2019s worse than I\u2019ve seen at sea?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCrelers.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Pirate] coughed on his drink. Viceria clapped her hands together with a smile, laughing in delight. Wailant glanced at her, and then looked at Numbtongue, casually.<\/p>\n \u201cOh? Well, they\u2019re twice as tricky in the water. But er, how many did you run into?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThousands.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant stared. There was nothing for it but for Numbtongue to relate the battle at the inn. When he was done, Viceria laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cHave you done that, Wailant? I think one of your guests has finally told a better tale than a fine seadog.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cArgh. Do you have to rub it in?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes, and relentlessly. Wailant loves telling his sea tales, thank you for taking him down a peg.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Green Mage] winked at Numbtongue. He bared his teeth.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat about your<\/em> stories?\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria blinked and both she and Wailant laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cI<\/em> am poor at fighting. The second monster I ever ran into outside of Wistram nearly killed me. It did kill my entire escort, until Wailant saved me. I rather think I\u2019m three times as good at actual combat as I was before we met. There\u2019s a world of difference from learning to cast combat spells in Wistram to seeing an actual monster.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s how we met, by the by. I saved her, and we got to talking<\/em>. Among other things.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant grinned at Numbtongue. The Hobgoblin saw his wife roll her eyes. He thought he liked Wailant, a bit. The man was sort of Garen-like. Overbearing, but in a good way to his friends. The [Pirate]\/[Farmer] had to recount the story of how he had persuaded Viceria to stay with him, and how she had made his farming venture an actual success.<\/p>\n \u201cGet yourself a lady like I did, Hobgoblin. It\u2019s the only way to live.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant finished with that sage advice. Numbtongue almost caught himself nodding. Viceria put her hands on her hips.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd why is it his job and yours to get<\/em> a woman, Wailant? Can\u2019t we choose?\u201d<\/p>\n The husband laughed, his face flushed with drink.<\/p>\n \u201cNot a chance! Because no lady\u2019d choose one of us, right, Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n He grinned. And Viceria and Numbtongue both burst out laughing. Viceria leaned over.<\/p>\n \u201cTell me, Numbtongue. I\u2019ve heard Goblins have [Shamans]. Have you ever seen them casting higher-level magics?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHere we go. Magic talk. Don\u2019t let her ask you about spells or you\u2019ll talk your mouth off.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant reached for the wine bottle, found it was empty, and got up. Numbtongue was explaining that the Redfangs hadn\u2019t had many Goblin [Shamans]\u2014a few, but they had died in battle as often as the [Warriors]. Viceria sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cA shame. I was studying different types of green magic. That\u2019s my specialty, incidentally. As a [Green Mage], I wanted to visit Oteslia. Well, I ended up here and I don\u2019t regret it. I had a life of academia ahead of me, and I was rather sheltered\u2014I spent most of my life in Wistram, you know. Most [Mages] do and it leaves us sheltered.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSheltered is better than unsheltered.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue opined. Viceria glanced at him.<\/p>\n \u201cYes, well, I suppose it is. But we tend to die in accidents or in underestimating our enemies when we leave the academy. I imagine that\u2019s quite amusing to Goblins.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA bit. Redfangs\u2026hunt [Mages]. Sort of easy.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Bard] coughed. Viceria glanced at him.<\/p>\n \u201cHow so?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf we see robes, we run away. [Mages] chase. Forget to put barriers. So then a [Rogue] or [Archer]\u2026sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue gestured, embarrassed. Viceria shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cI imagine many Wistram [Mages] have it coming. It is an ongoing conflict. But that\u2019s rather disheartening. What happens if a [Mage] is wise enough to keep their barrier up?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRun away. Shoot arrows from afar. [Mages] get tired. Have trouble hitting Goblins with [Fireballs], Lightning is the worst.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin scowled. Viceria nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cIt is, isn\u2019t it? I don\u2019t know if you know this, but Wistram [Mages] duel all the time. And lightning tends to carry a lot of duels. We even have\u2014had\u2014an Archmage famous for her ability with lightning. But among [Mages], it\u2019s seen as a bit of a gimmick. Anti-electricity spells are quite common. And you can stop lightning in other ways.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cReally?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue\u2019s ears perked up. Viceria stared at them and then nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cA rod of metal in the ground will reliably draw the lightning away.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cReally?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant returned and had to give his opinion on lightning at sea\u2014don\u2019t do it. Fire was a nightmare on ships. Numbtongue found himself discussing fighting spells, which was something he knew. Before he had realized it, he was in his third cup and everything felt\u2014better.<\/p>\n \u201cEntertainment. You want to see this. You see, on a [Pirate] ship we don\u2019t fight like landfolk. Formations. [Strategists].<\/em> Horses! It\u2019s all action! Boarding the decks! And you fight with a cutlass in one hand and a wand in the other! Or a crossbow or something! See?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant heaved himself up and went for a set of wands in a case. He tossed one at Numbtongue.<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t worry, it\u2019s just [Light Arrow]. Weak spell, but it\u2019s good for fun. Watch\u2014come on.\u201d<\/p>\n He led Numbtongue and Viceria outside. Wailant had, for his entertainment, set up targets, from glass bottles to metal cans and painted targets. No bullseye targets for him; he\u2019d drawn in glowing paint, or made clumsy illustrations of sea monsters.<\/p>\n \u201cScit! Scit!<\/em> That\u2019s the spell. You try!\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant was drunk, but he managed to hit one of the cans on the fourth try. A glowing, orange arrow of light shot from his wand as Viceria laughed. Numbtongue raised his wand, swaying, and tried to aim it. He\u2019d used wands before; they were a nice treasure after a battle for Redfangs and greatly desired.<\/p>\n \u201cScit.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The blue arrow shot from his wand, slower than an arrow, but bright and colorful. He nearly hit one of the cans. Wailant laughed as Numbtongue nailed his target after five tries.<\/p>\n \u201cMy turn. Scit.<\/em> Scit. Scit.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria hit two of her three targets dead-on. She was a good shot. Wailant and Numbtongue applauded, then they took aim at the harder targets. At some point, Wailant decided it was getting hot.<\/p>\n It was a summer\u2019s night and they were still drinking. Numbtongue felt\u2014welcome. He was almost<\/em> certain he wasn\u2019t going to be attacked and Viceria and Wailant were laughing. And plying him with more drinks. He watched as Wailant tore off his tunic.<\/p>\n \u201cYou get naked at sea! Fuck swimming with clothes! Damn them!\u201d<\/p>\n He hurled his tunic to the ground. Numbtongue was nodding\u2014until he saw Viceria toss off her robe. He turned. And then he discovered that nudism was a universal trait. Saliss would have fit right in. And what was Numbtongue to do? Well, Goblins didn\u2019t need clothes either. Just for bugs and keeping warm.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Later that evening, three figures wavered around the outskirts of the Strongheart farm. Lights illuminated the dark buildings and the barnyard animals wisely kept indoors as the three figures shot spells at targets.<\/p>\n They were, all three of them, naked, and shooting wands of [Light Arrow] at some targets on fences, the roof of the farmhouse\u2014a few hanging from a tree\u2014and very drunk.<\/p>\n That was how Garia found them. The City Runner was jogging up to the house, dragging a literal door behind her. It was tied to her waist via a rope and she\u2019d pulled it all the way from Celum; a glittering mana stone lay on the front. She stopped as the three figures turned.<\/p>\n \u201cWho goes there? This is private property. Piss off!\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant shouted. Viceria pointed her wand.<\/p>\n \u201c[Light Beam].\u201d<\/p>\n Garia shaded her eyes as the light illuminated her. There was a pause and Wailant shouted.<\/p>\n \u201cGaria! My girl! Hey! Hey Numb-Hob! Look! There she is!\u201d<\/p>\n He poked a wavering figure. As Garia approached and the light turned into a ball, illuminating all three, she saw a naked Numbtongue blinking at her. Garia blinked. She stared at her mother, her father, and Numbtongue.<\/p>\n They had no clothes on. Garia threw up her hands and shouted.<\/p>\n \u201cMom! Dad! What are you doing?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cEntertaining our guest! Come here!\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant went to hug his daughter. He was very drunk, as were Viceria and Numbtongue. Garia dodged him.<\/p>\n \u201cPut some clothes on! Do you know how worried Erin was? I ran all this way\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cGaria, dear, where\u2019s your bag of holding? Why are you dragging a door?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s exercise<\/em>, Mother! Mother!<\/em> Put some clothes on!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMy girl, you get naked at sea. What, do you think you swim with clothes on all the time?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant paused, addressing Garia\u2014or the air next to her. She glared.<\/p>\n \u201cDad.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue, head spinning, saw Garia arguing with her parents. He had to sit down. He was rather glad she was arguing about the clothes. It was hard to stop staring at Viceria. She didn\u2019t seem to mind, but he<\/em> did. Naked female Goblins were distracting enough, thank you.<\/p>\n At this point, Pyrite, who had been silent, helpfully added his memories of naked Goblins, opining that there were only a few<\/em> differences. He had a number of very unhelpful memories. In vivid detail. Nice<\/em> memories, but ones that were not helpful here\u2014Numbtongue decided to punch himself in the groin. Then he curled up.<\/p>\n The [Bard] didn\u2019t know Garia well. She\u2019d been in the inn a few times, met him and the Redfangs. Or so he thought? But he really only knew Garia from Erin.<\/p>\n Apparently, she\u2019d changed. The Garia standing in front of her parents and waving her hands was Ryoka-ish. But Numbtongue had never met this Ryoka, so that too was lost on him.<\/p>\n What Erin meant by that was that Garia was slim. She had<\/em> been heavier, apparently. Which was a good thing for Goblins, a mark that you had enough food to live on, but not for Human females. Whatever the case, Garia had changed drastically when she\u2019d gained the [Martial Artist] class. Her Skill, [Weight Control], had led to\u2026<\/p>\n Well, this. Garia Strongheart was, in Numbtongue\u2019s eyes, a young woman with black hair, not long and wavy but full. She had a bit of blue running through hair, just streaks, a legacy from her mother\u2019s side.<\/p>\n She was also incredibly toned<\/em>. Slim was not the word. Because slim implied a lack of muscle. And Garia Strongheart had muscle. But her body had shed almost all of its excess fat, and she was much changed.<\/p>\n For one thing\u2014she had inherited some of her parent\u2019s disposition for lack of clothing. Garia\u2019s stomach was bare, exposing some magnificent abdominal muscles. Combined with her emerald green eyes, a trait shared by all three Stronghearts, she was striking.<\/p>\n Numbtongue certainly appreciated the sight. But he decided not to punch himself in the groin again as he got up. Wincing, he looked around for his pants.<\/p>\n Garia had been shy, loyal, but timid around Ryoka and Fals in the past. But the Garia of today was more outspoken. Certainly more confident as she harangued her parents. But then, she was at home, and Numbtongue had never known the other one. He eyed her as she talked with her parents.<\/p>\n In a way, Viceria and Wailant also explained why Garia was Garia. She had always seemed \u2018normal\u2019 in Erin\u2019s description, a good-natured City Runner. But she had an extraordinary<\/em> family, one she never talked about. But that almost made sense.<\/p>\n If you had parents like Wailant and Viceria, it was hard to follow in either one\u2019s footsteps. And\u2014seeing two drunk parents staggering around blasting [Light Arrows] around at night might make you yearn for a bit of normality.<\/p>\n Certainly, the exasperation in Garia\u2019s tone was familiar.<\/p>\n \u201cDad, I heard you were banned<\/em> from Celum. And you hit an unarmed [Merchant]!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe had it coming. She sicced a bunch of [Mercenaries] on me. Harpy. Anyways, look what I found.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI know what you found! You kidnapped Numbtongue! He\u2019s part of Erin\u2019s inn? Remember? You were supposed to visit?\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cGaria, don\u2019t shout<\/em> at your father. Why is your midriff bared? And what are you wearing? <\/em>Are you trying to make yourself a target on the road?\u201d<\/p>\n She pointed to Garia\u2019s wrapped chest. Which was exposing her bosom in a way part of Numbtongue appreciated\u2014and her parents did not. Viceria frowned. Garia glared at her.<\/p>\n \u201cMom! <\/em>You\u2019re the naked one!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd I am naked at home, with your father.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIn front of a guest!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSo? He\u2019s not one of them raping Goblin bastards. I\u2019d cut him apart before he did. Don\u2019t be racist, my girl.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia stared at Wailant. Viceria murmured.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s speciesist, dear.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight, that.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia threw up her arms.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m home.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n She looked at Numbtongue. He paused in putting his pants on and waved.<\/p>\n \u201cHi.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia stared at him. Then she stared<\/em>, fascinated.<\/p>\n \u201cOh\u2026hi.\u201d<\/p>\n She didn\u2019t look away. Wailant and Viceria turned to look at Numbtongue. He hurried to put on the pants. Viceria eyed her daughter and smiled. Wailant scowled.<\/p>\n \u201cAlright, clothes on!\u201d<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n A little bit later, Numbtongue was eating cold rice and dumplings again. He rather liked it cold; Garia was eating it hot, and her parents were sitting around their dinner table.<\/p>\n Garia coming home was a bit of a rare occurrence, or so it seemed to Numbtongue. Her parents were pestering her with questions.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you\u2019ve just been running? That\u2019s it?\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria sighed as her daughter uncooperatively described her life in the intervening months since she\u2019d been back. Garia shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right, mom. It\u2019s just my job. You know.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNothing interesting happened? At all? No fascinating deliveries?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMeet any [Bandits] on the road? Monsters?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant was sipping from some milk to sober up. That sounded good to Numbtongue so he helped himself. Garia glanced at him and shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cI mean, a few. But I\u2019m not a big name, Mom. You know<\/em> that. I\u2019m making more of a name now; I still do the big deliveries of heavy stuff, but I\u2019m saving up for a bag of holding.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou could take your father\u2019s old one\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can afford it myself! Besides, it\u2019s good training. And I\u2019m safe. I can wear what I want; I knocked out a [Cutthroat] on the road and he had a horse.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAha! Tell us about that!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI kicked the horse and then I punched him. That\u2019s all, dad. I don\u2019t take risks, like Ryoka. But I\u2019m getting better requests.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd how many of them are from young men?\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria murmured. Garia flushed.<\/p>\n \u201cSome<\/em>. And so what? But I\u2019m faster!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAny of them try to put their hands on you? Remember what I said about the plague you can catch\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDad.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWailant.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The man subsided. He glanced at Numbtongue. Then he cleared his throat.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, darling girl. You\u2019re uh, looking different again. Been a while since we last saw you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI lost more weight. See?\u201d<\/p>\n Garia indicated her body. Wailant paused.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah. Good for you? Anyways, here\u2019s Numbtongue. You know him, from the inn?\u201d<\/p>\n Garia paused. She looked at her father and nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cYeah. Erin sent me, actually. She\u2019s worried about Numbtongue, even though Viceria sent a [Message] saying he was safe. She\u2019s hoping you can let him go through the door.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBah. Let him stay the night. What\u2019s the worry?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019s a Hob<\/em>, dad. You said you punched him!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI kicked<\/em> him in the nuts. And that\u2019s because no one told me he was allowed in the city. But now we\u2019re chums. He\u2019s a fun one. And he likes it here, right Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHi.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue waved at Garia. She nodded at him, trying to smile. She glanced at her parents. Wailant was looking his daughter up and down.<\/p>\n \u201cSo\u2014when d\u2019you think you\u2019ll stop changing around, Garia? It seems like you\u2019re fine enough for anyone\u2019s fancy. Not that you weren\u2019t before\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Garia stood up abruptly. She glared at Wailant.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m going to the bathroom. One second.\u201d<\/p>\n She walked out of the room. Numbtongue paused with a mouthful of food. He saw Viceria glaring at Wailant.<\/p>\n \u201cStop pestering her! This is why she hasn\u2019t come back!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI just\u2014okay, fine! Fine!\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant protested as Viceria aimed her wand at him. He scowled and folded his arms.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s the problem? People trying to have sex with her?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue looked blankly from Viceria to Wailant. The [Green Mage] started. Then she motioned at Wailant. He grimaced.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019d be one thing. How do I explain it to you? Well\u2014just look at her. Look what they did, those damned women. Harpies, all of them. You saw how she looked?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cSeems fine to me. Good muscle.\u201d<\/p>\n He patted one arm. Viceria did laugh at that. Wailant shook his head.<\/p>\n \u201cNot that.<\/em> Her! Damn, you don\u2019t know what she looked like. Take a look\u2014where\u2019s that picture she made us take down, Vicci?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI have it. Here. Before she comes back\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShe\u2019s probably going for a walk. I\u2019ll keep an eye out.\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria hurried into one of the storage rooms. She came back, levitating a painting out. It was of Garia. The [Artist] had clearly embellished her features as one does for a portrait, but he\u2019d kept what was essentially her. And Numbtongue\u2026shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cBigger. Ah.\u201d<\/p>\n He remembered his conversations with Erin, and Lyonette worrying about Mrsha being pudgy. Viceria nodded. Wailant muttered as he stared at the old Garia.<\/p>\n \u201cShe used to be a sturdy girl. Not gigantic, mind. But properly tough. The kind you\u2019d see on any crew and think twice about tussling with in a ship fight. Dead gods, the women I knew, who could squeeze your head to pieces with one arm!\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue nodded. He knew the same types of Hobs, male and female. He still failed to see Wailant\u2019s problem.<\/p>\n \u201cShe decided to change herself. She\u2019s not the little girl I raised. She\u2019s lost weight\u2014I\u2019d not recognize her walking down the street. All because that\u2019s the way she thinks she ought<\/em> to look. Changing her body around like a Drowned Woman with her Skill\u2014what next? Chop off an arm and replace it with one of them fancy magic ones?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cShush.\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria came back around the table with a scowl, having put the painting away. She glared at her husband, looking genuinely annoyed with him for once.<\/p>\n \u201cYou should treat your daughter\u2019s choices with respect, Wailant Strongheart. We ought to let her be what she wants. So long as she\u2019s not hurting herself, what does it matter? It\u2019s her choice. [Illusionists] do exactly what she does. Except they can only pretend. I use my tonics and spells; why is her Skill wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n She looked hard at her husband. And Wailant hesitated. He opened and closed his mouth, swallowing arguments, and at last, shook it. He looked at Numbtongue.<\/p>\n \u201cGet yourself a good woman, Numbtongue. And it\u2019s get<\/em>. No lady\u2019ll fish for copper, eh?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue smiled. When Garia returned, looking sour but calmer, no one said anything about how she looked. And the talk quickly went back to Erin and the inn.<\/p>\n \u201cSo there\u2019s this magic door<\/em> that she got from Albez. I heard about that. The Horns of Hammerad. And they gave it to her and we can walk through it and go to the inn. Anytime we want? And it\u2019s sitting on my porch?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant stared at Garia. She and Numbtongue nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right, dad. And apparently, Erin\u2019s banned from Celum. Or\u2014she\u2019s decided to take the door away. There was a huge<\/em> fuss. The Players of Celum are moving to Liscor, too. It all happened this evening. I ran the door out of the city, but Erin\u2019s still dealing with the fallout.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHow\u2019d you get the door?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue looked at Garia. He had a hard time imagining all the Humans would have let her. She smiled.<\/p>\n \u201cI grabbed it and ran.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHah! Hustle like a [Pirate]! There\u2019s my girl.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant fondly poured a drink around. Viceria was tapping her lips.<\/p>\n \u201cI was meaning to see the Players of Celum. Everyone\u2019s been talking about them, but we had that infestation of moles, and I\u2019ve been travelling to Wales\u2014this door goes to Liscor? Without any delay? What about the mana cost?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s a magic door, mom. And Erin\u2019s inn apparently charges it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt must sit on a leyline.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt doesn\u2019t work all the time. Can\u2019t send many people to Pallass. Two or four per day only.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue nodded around the table. Wailant choked on his drink.<\/p>\n \u201cIt goes where?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Garia grinned at Numbtongue, pleased at her parent\u2019s reactions. She explained and Wailant\u2019s brows shot all the way up.<\/p>\n \u201cReally? Pallass?<\/em> I sell to [Traders] going south, but only during the winter. You can\u2019t get bugger-all past the Bloodfields. But this magic door, it goes all the way?\u201d<\/p>\n He looked at his wife. Viceria leaned over.<\/p>\n \u201cGaria, why isn\u2019t this news larger than it is? Every [Merchant] in a hundred miles should be lined up to use this door. Not just them.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2026that\u2019s the reason Erin was kicked out of Celum, actually. She has a deal not to interfere with trade and the Runner\u2019s Guild and apparently people were.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBecause that\u2019s smart<\/em>. Hold on. Pallass. Liscor. Anywhere else it goes?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cUm, the Bloodfields. And\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cInvrisil soon. Horns of Hammerad are taking it there. Going slowly. Probably because of lazy half-Elves.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue grunted. He refilled his bowl. Garia offered him some of the dark sauce and he poured it over his rice. They were both eating more than Wailant and Viceria, who\u2019d long since stopped; their metabolisms meant they were packing it in.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is really good, dad. Is this the rice you grew?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure is. Beats buying it from imports. Your mother made one of them wet fields. Take a look in the morning. Don\u2019t fall in. We had to enchant it so bugs wouldn\u2019t find a home, but it\u2019s well enough. Pain to harvest. I\u2019m hiring help to do it next time.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant picked at his teeth. Then he focused on Numbtongue.<\/p>\n \u201cSo, this door doesn\u2019t go all<\/em> the way to Pallass. But it can take some people, can it? Pallass loves Sage\u2019s Grass. Say, Numbtongue. You think I could get a deal with this [Innkeeper]?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue looked up warily. Garia cut in as she offered him the last dumplings. Numbtongue took half and she grinned at him before looking sternly at her father.<\/p>\n \u201cYou can ask her tomorrow, dad. Mom, can you send a message to Erin telling her not to worry? I\u2019m here, but Numbtongue\u2019ll stay the night. That should be fine.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI can go back\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n All three Stronghearts shook their head, for once in unison.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd let you go without hospitality? We\u2019ve got guest beds. Garia, tell me more about the door. You too, Numbtongue.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDad<\/em>, Numbtongue\u2019s not the boss. Don\u2019t pressure him!\u201d<\/p>\n Garia warned Wailant. He grinned, throwing an arm around Numbtongue.<\/p>\n \u201cSure, sure. You don\u2019t speak for her. Erin Solstice, you said? Have another drink.\u201d<\/p>\n And Numbtongue felt a bit uneasy. But Garia gave him a reassuring thumbs-up. He didn\u2019t know what her plan was\u2014until he saw her disappear into the kitchen. When she came back, Wailant insisted on everyone having another round.<\/p>\n Garia poured the drinks. Numbtongue sniffed, smelled the wine and the other, more potent alcohol, and took only a sip. Wailant downed his cup and went over.<\/p>\n \u201cHonestly, Garia.\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria had taken a deep drink, but she only sighed at her daughter\u2019s duplicity. Garia stuck out her tongue at her father.<\/p>\n \u201cHe\u2019ll be fine. You want me to help put him in bed?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo need.\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria sighed. She flicked her fingers and the [Green Mage] and her husband stood. Well, she was levitating him. Numbtongue stared.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll put him in bed and give him something for the drink. Too much is poisonous, Garia.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd you have all kinds of hangover and anti-drunkenness potions. Dad\u2019s pushy. He\u2019d try and get you to agree to something. Watch out for my mom. She\u2019ll try to do the same, which is why I\u2019m here.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia confided in Numbtongue. Viceria shot her daughter a cool look.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s just business, Garia.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAnd Numbtongue\u2019s a friend. So is Erin. The farm\u2019s doing fine.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThere\u2019s a [Trade War]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhere are those disposable wands dad likes to buy each time the [Merchant] comes around?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Green Mage] sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll put your father to bed. I might be a while. Garia, will you show Numbtongue our guest room?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia had a mildly triumphant look as she watched her parents disappear. She seemed proud, so Numbtongue kept chewing his last bites. He was stuffed<\/em>. But drinking had made him hungry again, so here he was.<\/p>\n Then he and Garia were staring at each other. Awkwardly, now. It was the first time they\u2019d really talked alone, for all Garia claimed friendship. She took a sip from her cup. Numbtongue paused and then nodded towards the parents\u2019 bedroom.<\/p>\n \u201cYour mom is powerful.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia started.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Oh, yeah. She is. I don\u2019t really think about it, but mom is<\/em> a full [Mage] of Wistram. She mostly just uses her magic to help with the farm, though.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cCan you do magic?\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue eyed Garia. She shook her head.<\/p>\n \u201cBasic spells. I don\u2019t have the talent. I have a few levels, but I don\u2019t like<\/em> studying magic. It\u2019s confusing and it\u2019s a lot of hard work. You have to spend, like, twenty years to get good at it unless you\u2019re a genius. And I\u2019m not. Mom offered to teach me until I got into Wistram, but I was a [Farmer] and then I wanted to be a Runner.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMm.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin nodded. After a moment, he gestured at the room Viceria had pulled Wailant through.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s nothing. Sorry my dad kidnapped you. He\u2019s pushy. He does that to people he likes.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt was good. I was hiding from the City Watch.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYeah. Um\u2014so. We haven\u2019t talked much, but I just wanted to say I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cAbout what?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThe\u2026battle at Liscor. Erin told me. I only heard about it. I\u2019m\u2014really sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou didn\u2019t do anything.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin half-turned away, pretending to stare at one of the paintings. Garia hesitated. She put a hand over the table.<\/p>\n \u201cNo, but I\u2019m sorry it happened. I didn\u2019t know the others, or you, really. But I\u2019m\u2026sorry. That\u2019s all I wanted to say. Sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Bard] looked back. He stared at Garia. She flushed, and he wondered if that was what she had been like, from how Erin talked about her. But how much had changed? Perhaps, it was just what Wailant saw.<\/p>\n Skin-deep. Numbtongue paused and closed his eyes, breathing in and out. And then he nodded slowly.<\/p>\n \u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia smiled at him. She sighed as she picked up the plates on the table and tossed them in the kitchen to be cleaned.<\/p>\n \u201cI can show you to your room, but it\u2019s just over there. Say\u2014would you mind following me for a second? Mom\u2019ll come back any second now and I don\u2019t feel like answering questions about what kind of Runner I want to be. Or have her try and get you to sign a contract.\u201d<\/p>\n She gestured towards the door. Numbtongue nodded and followed her.<\/p>\n Garia led Numbtongue a short ways from the farmhouse to the barn. Inside, cows and other animals looked up at the safety-lantern Garia lit. Magical light spilled from it, not fire. Good thing too; Numbtongue was familiar with how fast flames could burn things.<\/p>\n Like [Farms]. He\u2019d participated in more than one Redfang raid for food. The Hobgoblin wished he didn\u2019t remember that. Or the dead [Farmers] who sometimes fought back.<\/p>\n History lay between the two. Garia Strongheart had to have known Goblins are a menace, and Numbtongue had fought and fled Humans. But neither said anything about it. They had history, but the two of them had never met.<\/em><\/p>\n Now, Garia stood in the barn and silently adopted a pose. She lowered her posture, changed her footwork, and did\u2026a punch.<\/p>\n Numbtongue stared. It was just a punch, in a rather specific form. It looked\u2026practiced. Garia moved through it slowly at first, and then repeated the move. Faster. She had very good control; the punches always went the same way, in the same posture.<\/p>\n Beyond that\u2026it was just an odd exercise. Redfangs didn\u2019t fight like that. They sparred, or did exercises to increase their muscle, but they didn\u2019t practice this. The [Bard] was interested\u2014and then he saw Garia switch to a kick.<\/p>\n It was another move, a set pattern as she crossed her legs and then kicked out. She was less practiced with this, but she was clearly trying to achieve a perfect form. Again, Numbtongue didn\u2019t get why. You kicked things in any position. But he had to admit, that looked like a powerful kick.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd then\u2014[Flash Kick]!\u201d<\/p>\n Garia finished her routine with a kick. It came in the exact same motion, but wicked<\/em> fast. That was a Skill, the kind that could change a battle around in one go. Numbtongue nodded to himself. Not bad for hand-to-hand combat. Garia looked strong. If she had a [Lesser Strength] Skill too, that would hurt.<\/p>\n The [Martial Artist]\/[Runner] turned to the Hobgoblin after she was done. She wasn\u2019t panting; she\u2019d done a hundred of each. Numbtongue was sitting on some hay bales, staring at a cow and at her. She waited.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you<\/em> think? I mean, I think I look good. Right?\u201d<\/p>\n He shrugged.<\/p>\n \u201cLooks fine.\u201d<\/p>\n Garia was slightly crestfallen.<\/p>\n \u201cIs there anything I can improve?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cImprove? Good kicks. Good punches.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI mean\u2014oh, darn. I thought you might know some other moves. Ryoka talked about all kinds of things, but I was hoping a Hobgoblin warrior might know some more. This is martial arts, see. I heard Redfangs were the best. Grimalkin taught me that kick, but he said he\u2019s not a [Martial Artist].\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cMartial\u2026? [Artist]?\u201d<\/p>\n For once, the word was unfamiliar to Numbtongue. Garen had taught his Redfangs all about how to fight different classes, but never about this. But this class was rare in Izril, or anywhere, really. Garia tried to explain.<\/p>\n \u201cRight, I did some research when I first got it. I thought it was a bit weird, but I liked my first Skill, and, well, it\u2019s a new class, right? Apparently they fight with all kinds of weapons, not just fists. But they train different from [Warriors]. They fight like\u2026an art.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh<\/em>. I see. Nice moves. But only one punch?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, it\u2019s the form, see?\u201d<\/p>\n Garia showed Numbtongue. She punched at a target at chin-height, then punched downwards, adjusting her form but carrying the same motion. Numbtongue began to understand.<\/p>\n \u201cOh. Good punching. Like this.\u201d<\/p>\n He showed her a punch. It wasn\u2019t the same, but Numbtongue put his weight and body behind the punch, which was essentially what Garia\u2019s practice was meant to do. She nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. Only, you do entire moves. Like jump kicks\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n She stopped as Numbtongue did a jumping kick easily. The Redfang Hobgoblin looked challengingly at Garia.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s different. I have a class.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDoes it make you stronger?\u201d<\/p>\n Garia hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014I think so. I have Skills like [Basic Footwork], and I\u2019ve actually beaten a few monsters. Even a rabid bear. Don\u2019t tell my parents. I got cut up, but I knocked it out.\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue paused. [Cutthroats] on horses were one thing, but a rabid bear? He stared at Garia. She went on.<\/p>\n \u201cAnd it gave me [Weight Control]. So I could change how much I weighed. And look\u2014it gave me this.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n She pointed at her bare stomach, proudly. It flexed and Garia glanced up at Numbtongue, perhaps hoping for an impression. The Hobgoblin stared blankly at Garia\u2019s abdomen. Then he pulled up his shirt, and pointed.<\/p>\n \u201cFine. See?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh. Oh.<\/em> Wow!\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue had abs too. His weren\u2019t as pronounced as Garia\u2019s, but everyone had them. Especially Redfangs; they were really prominent when you were hungry. His had begun to disappear since he\u2019d been eating food at Erin\u2019s inn, but they were still there. To Numbtongue, Garia looked a bit starved for food, but he understood that Humans had different standards.<\/p>\n \u201cYou\u2019re in shape! I thought so, but\u2014do you really not practice any moves?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRedfangs practice for a fight. Sparring. Don\u2019t practice\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue copied Garia\u2019s punch. She hesitated.<\/p>\n \u201cReally? Well, maybe that will help me level. I\u2019m asking because I want to increase my class. I\u2019m only Level 17 now. I\u2019ve leveled like crazy.<\/em> It\u2019s practically a record, but I slowed even though I do a thousand punches and kicks at least<\/em> per day. But I\u2019m sure I need to do something else to level. What if\u2026could you spar with me?\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin stared. Garia raised her hands.<\/p>\n \u201cNot to the death or anything! Or even getting hurt! Just\u2014to show me some moves?\u201d<\/p>\n She looked so hopeful, the [Bard] agreed.<\/p>\n \u201cSure. But I\u2019m not a [Warrior] anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n He walked forwards, swinging his arms up. Garia instantly raised her guard and took her stance.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat are you, then?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c[Bard].\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue feinted and punched at Garia\u2019s stomach. She blinked, and he nailed her in the gut.<\/p>\n \u201cOw. <\/em>That hurt!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The Hob paused. Of course it had. He\u2019d hit Garia hard. Not as hard as he could, <\/em>but nearly.<\/p>\n \u201cToo hard? Sorry, Redfangs spar like this.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, it\u2019s okay. I was just expecting\u2014okay. My turn!\u201d<\/p>\n That wasn\u2019t how it worked, but Numbtongue stepped back anyways. He saw Garia step forwards and try to punch.<\/p>\n Instantly, he saw the problem. She was doing that same basic move, which was good for about one type of attack. Not a running punch, or if you were backing up. Just step in and\u2014<\/p>\n \u201cNeed different move.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey! Don\u2019t back up!\u201d<\/p>\n Garia took more swings, trying to keep to her posture. Numbtongue walked backwards.<\/p>\n \u201cToo slow. Need different move. Die in a fight.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s worked so far! Once I hit you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not a bear.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin leaned back as Garia punched at his chest. She ran forwards\u2014he swayed upright. But he still had time as her fist came at his chest. He blocked\u2014<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin staggered backwards, stumbled, and caught himself. He stared at his arms and shook them out. Then at Garia. She had a heavy<\/em> punch. She grinned.<\/p>\n \u201cSee?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201c[Enhanced Strength].\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin narrowed his eyes. Garia blinked.<\/p>\n \u201cHow did you\u2014ah!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Numbtongue jumped at her and kicked. Garia blocked and stumbled backwards. Numbtongue went low, about to hook her legs, but Garia recovered. She was on the wrong foot, and saw him coming in. So the [Martial Artist] in training shouted.<\/p>\n \u201c[Flash Kick]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Her foot blurred. The Hobgoblin saw the kick coming, but he couldn\u2019t dodge in time. It hit his guard, and sent him flying\u2014into the wall of the barn. Numbtongue hit the wall, fell down, and lay there.<\/p>\n \u201cOh dead gods! Are you alright?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Garia stared in horror, and then dashed over to him. Numbtongue stared upwards at the rafters as the cows mooed <\/em>and Viceria came to find her guest with bruised ribs. Garia apologized profusely, but she did point out she\u2019d technically won.<\/p>\n Numbtongue informed her that he hadn\u2019t used his guitar. He was let into bed with a healing potion for his chest, and slept, reflecting that maybe there was something to her class. She certainly hit like Pyrite. The Hob had opined in Numbtongue\u2019s head that he could have beaten Garia in a fight. For now. But he\u2019d prefer an axe.<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin slept, bemused by his encounter with this strange family. The next day, the family came to the inn. And it was Erin\u2019s turn to experience the Erin-effect. Only, Strongheart-style.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n \u2014\u2014<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/p>\n Erin Solstice waited by the magical door, a bit anxiously. She knew Numbtongue was safe. Palt had gotten the [Message], and between trying to settle Octavia, Temile and the Players of Celum, and deal with the angry [Messages] she was getting from Celum, Erin hadn\u2019t been able to check on him.<\/p>\n But he was her first priority this morning. Garia had assured Erin that her family would take care of him and apparently they were hosting him overnight? That was weird<\/em>, but it made Erin hope the other family members weren\u2019t jerks.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat do you think the family\u2019s like? Ryoka visited, but she didn\u2019t say much. Which was Ryoka. You were there, right Mrsha? Are they nice people?\u201d<\/p>\n Lyonette asked Mrsha as the Gnoll cub stood on two legs and waved her wand, creating a bed of grass. Mrsha paused as she began to uproot the magical grass and nodded, vaguely. Erin waited.<\/p>\n The magical door sprang to life and Erin saw bright sunlight. She heard a voice instantly, as the figures on the other side recoiled.<\/p>\n \u201cBuggering kings, it works! Look at that!\u201d<\/p>\n A man stood in the doorway, staring through at Erin and Lyonette. The [Innkeeper] saw a woman dressed in a [Mage]\u2019s robe, Garia, and\u2014<\/p>\n \u201cNumbtongue! Are you okay?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin waved at the Hobgoblin, smiling in relief. Numbtongue smiled back too. He looked fine. She saw him walk forwards\u2014<\/p>\n And the man with tattoos strode through the door. He stared around at the inn, blinked at Erin, and stuck a hand in her face.<\/p>\n \u201cWailant Strongheart, humble [Farmer] or something, at your service. This the inn my girl keeps talking up? Here, have a pie as thanks. Mind if I come in? Dead gods! Viceria, come see this!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t be rude, Wailant.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin saw Viceria Strongheart and Garia come through. She found a pie in her hands, smelling of rhubarb, and found her hand being crushed by Wailant until Viceria introduced herself. Numbtongue trooped through and caught Mrsha as she tried to dash through the doorway.<\/p>\n \u201cViceria Strongheart, at your service. Thank you for being a friend to Garia. I\u2019m sorry about my husband\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh? You\u2019re Garia\u2019s parents! Right! Wow! Hey, Garia, thanks for bringing the door. Um\u2014[Farmers]?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin stared at the tattoos, a bit lost for words. Wailant had already strode up and down the hallway, noticing the traps. He disappeared through the doors to the common room as Viceria sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cWell, we\u2019re both formerly from other classes. I\u2019m a [Green Mage], and my husband was a [Pirate]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cA [Pirate]?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Erin and Lyonette both exclaimed. Mrsha, wiggled in Numbtongue\u2019s arms as he put her down and closed the doors. She glared at him and then waved, signing in her hand-language.<\/p>\n Welcome back! Meanie!<\/em><\/p>\n The Hobgoblin blinked at her.<\/p>\n \u201cHi. I\u2019m not mean.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHello, little Mrsha! Want to go up?\u201d<\/p>\n Garia bent and gave Mrsha cuddles. The Gnoll happily rode on Garia\u2019s shoulders as Wailant stormed back into the hallway, followed by Palt. Erin\u2019s new regular crew was in today, along with Seborn and Ulinde\u2014the two were in Liscor, comparing potential jobs with the ones from Pallass. Wailant himself was agog.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re in Liscor alright! I\u2019d recognize the lumpy landscape anywhere! So this magic door can take us back and forth as much as we want?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. Um\u2014so you\u2019re a pirate\u2014?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Sure, sure. That\u2019s right. How does this thing work? Ah! Lookit that!\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant had found the dial system Lyonette had built. He exclaimed as he turned the door to Liscor and thrust it open. A couple of Drakes and Gnolls lined up stepped forwards.<\/p>\n \u201cOh good. We were\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant slammed the door. Erin opened her mouth as he checked the dial.<\/p>\n \u201cLiscor. And it even says Pallass.<\/em> Huh. And it really\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n He thrust the door open. Erin saw the stone room, and the portcullis. Wailant stared through as a Drake behind the gate jerked upright. He had a little viewing port made of glass and he snapped as he saw Wailant and the others.<\/p>\n \u201cIdentify yourself! No one\u2019s scheduled to come through for\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant shut the door in their faces. He turned to Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cHuh. Touchy bastards, aren\u2019t they? Like half the Drakes I\u2019ve met. So that\u2019s Pallass?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. Um\u2014Wailant Strongheart?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s my name. And you\u2019re Erin Solstice. Listen, I\u2019ve got a business proposition for you. I\u2019m a [Farmer].\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cRight. And a [Pirate].\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. I grow a bunch of crap, but I specialize in Sage\u2019s Grass. I have a harvest ready to go, actually. I\u2019d like to sell to Liscor and Pallass. And to Invrisil if you\u2019ve got a door there! I\u2019ll cut you in on the profits. Just a bit, mind! But you benefit and I don\u2019t have to pay some yapping coin-thief to transport my<\/em> wares. We both win. What do you say?\u201d<\/p>\n Another hand appeared, pushing towards Erin\u2019s chest. She stared at it, and then at Wailant.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Um\u2014selling\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWailant.<\/em> Slow down!\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria came up from behind her husband and pulled him back. He grumbled as she smiled at Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m sorry, Wailant was up since dawn thinking about the possibilities of trading his goods to a Walled City directly.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNot just to a Walled City! I hear the door\u2019s going to Invrisil too! That true?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cOh, yeah. When the door gets there. It should be soon.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThen I\u2019ll pay for that too. How about it? Just let me push some Sage\u2019s Grass through. We can do a transportation fee. I\u2019ll make it worth your while. How much gold do you want per trip?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Farmer] was rubbing his hands together. Erin blinked.<\/p>\n \u201cHold on, I haven\u2019t thought about making any deals. I don\u2019t know you. Um, Garia?\u201d<\/p>\n The City Runner was staring up at the ceiling as Mrsha held on to her head. Wailant snorted.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s there to think about? I want money, you want money, unless you\u2019re daft. You have a door which teleports things! That\u2019s as good as Fissival\u2019s network! Here, we can take it slow if we want. I\u2019m Wailant. I sell Sage\u2019s Grass. <\/em>Do you know what that is?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDad.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Garia growled at her father. Viceria elbowed her husband. Wailant sighed, but his wife took over.<\/p>\n \u201cWhy don\u2019t we introduce ourselves properly, first, Wailant? Erin, may I call you Erin? I\u2019m sorry, but he\u2019s still a [Rogue] at heart.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHah. I\u2019m better than a [Rogue].\u201d<\/p>\n The Stronghearts began to introduce themselves a second time. Off-kilter, Erin led them towards the common room, blinking at Wailant. Viceria seemed nice and Garia seemed embarrassed, but Wailant was another thing entirely. He had tattoo<\/em>s. <\/em>And a cutlass!<\/p>\n And he was a bit\u2014pushy.<\/p>\n Inside the inn, Octavia blinked around her breakfast, which was in itself a rare experience for the [Alchemist]. She sometimes forgot to eat, apparently.<\/p>\n \u201cOh! Numbtongue! There you are!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHi.\u201d<\/p>\n The Hobgoblin waved vaguely and instantly went over to sit with her. Garia lifted Mrsha off her shoulders; the Gnoll didn\u2019t want to go. Garia looked at her parents, but then acceded as Mrsha tried to steer her towards Octavia and Numbtongue.<\/p>\n \u201cNice inn. Pretty good. Better than the ones in Celum. This a Skill?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. And the Players of Celum actually perform here. We have four of them upstairs now.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin was showing the couple about. Viceria\u2019s eyes lit up.<\/p>\n \u201cWill they perform here? Tonight?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYup. Actually, they\u2019re moving in, but they\u2019re going to perform tonight, Temile said. Some new play from Invrisil, actually. Have you seen them?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, Wailant, we\u2019re staying tonight.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDon\u2019t see why that\u2019s a problem. We can pop through that door anytime we please.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cIf you have access. Mister Strongheart, Miss Strongheart? Can I get you anything to drink?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019ll have an ale.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWine would be acceptable.\u201d<\/p>\n Day drinkers. Erin blinked, but Lyonette just smiled. She elbowed Erin in the back as she passed, which Erin took to mean \u2018talk about money\u2019. She looked at Wailant.<\/p>\n \u201cLet me get this straight. You want to use my door to sell\u2026your plants in Liscor and Pallass?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat\u2019s right. What do you think?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin didn\u2019t know what to think. She knew Lyonette was nodding and mouthing \u2018yes\u2019, but she was reluctant to make a sudden decision. Her actions had consequences!<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014I mean, it sounds okay. But maybe I should consider it.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhy\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant cut off and his eyes crossed slightly in a way that made Erin certain he\u2019d just received a very sharp kick under the table. Viceria smiled at Erin.<\/p>\n \u201cThat would be fine, Miss Solstice. It\u2019s a mutually beneficial offer.\u201d<\/p>\n Was it?<\/em> Erin thought it sounded like that, but she just didn\u2019t know\u2026business-y things. Lyonette seemed to agree.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s a fine proposal, right Erin? A modest fee for transactions and people should use the door to transport cargo.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut the Merchant\u2019s Guild in Celum was mad when we did that. Wouldn\u2019t it destabilize the economy, or, I dunno, ruin jobs?\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria was nodding politely, and Lyonette was frowning over her reply. But Wailant just snorted.<\/p>\n \u201cWhat, screw the [Merchants] out of some of their money and transport fees? Fuck\u2019em. It\u2019s convenient, so why not? To save their pretty little hides and keep things like they always have\u2026? No. You have a magic door, Miss. Why not use it?\u201d<\/p>\n Erin understood the content, even agreed with it, but she didn\u2019t like the delivery. She narrowed her eyes a bit. Viceria kicked her husband again.<\/p>\n \u201cPardon us. I normally negotiate with new clients, Wailant<\/em>\u2014but my husband\u2019s right in that your door is underutilized. Normally, we hire [Traders] to sell our goods or just sell to them with the expectation they\u2019ll sell elsewhere, Miss Solstice. But you would allow us to sell directly to our clients.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhich would save them money and earn us some.\u201d<\/p>\n Lyonette muttered, as if she was spelling it out.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m not stupid! I just don\u2019t know if that\u2019s nice!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNice? Have you met [Merchants]? This is business. Just the other day, I met this one who\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant laughed and went quiet as his wife, exasperated, pointed a wand at his face. The [Silence] spell made Wailant mouth silently for a few seconds as she stood up.<\/p>\n \u201cWill you excuse us for a second?\u201d<\/p>\n She dragged Wailant over to have a quick argument. Erin looked at Garia. She had pried the furry leech off her head and jogged over.<\/p>\n \u201cHey Erin, sorry about my dad. He\u2019s a bit\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cNo, it\u2019s fine. I heard he helped get Numbtongue away from the Watch. But he\u2019s\u2014is he really<\/em> a [Pirate]?\u201d<\/p>\n Across the inn, a Drowned Man\u2019s head slowly turned as Ulinde happily sorted the copies of the adventuring requests they\u2019d taken from Liscor\u2019s adventuring guild. Garia nodded.<\/p>\n \u201cHe is. Former [Pirate], but he\u2019s always been like this. He\u2019s actually a good person. He just\u2026pushes. A lot. Please hear him out?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cSure. I mean, it\u2019s okay.\u201d<\/p>\n Erin smiled at Garia. Relieved, the City Runner let Mrsha drag<\/em> her over to the Garden of Sanctuary. She blinked at the unfamiliar door. Erin looked at Lyonette.<\/p>\n \u201cMaybe we should discuss this?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat\u2019s there to discuss, Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI dunno, ask around. Find our options? Plan?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cErin, what\u2019s there to consider?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI dunno, not using the door for goods?\u201d<\/p>\n The [Princess] gave Erin a long look.<\/p>\n \u201c\u2026Why?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cI don\u2019t know!<\/em> I just don\u2019t ever do\u2014big business deals!\u201d<\/p>\n Erin had literally never held a full-time job back home. She had played against chess champions, sometimes in front of crowds, even as a child, and been on television for brief interviews. But it never occurred to Erin that that was, like, adult stuff<\/em>. Which she conflated with anything where you had to sign a contract and money was involved. She was sweating a bit. Lyonette sighed.<\/p>\n \u201cWe\u2019re not agreeing to anything. If they try to use a contract-Skill, I\u2019ll stop them. Just do what you think is best, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cBut how do I trust my brain?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n The question stumped the [Princess] so much that she was still staring blankly at Erin when the Stronghearts returned.<\/p>\n \u201cMiss Solstice, have you thought about the possibility of letting us use your door? We don\u2019t want to force a decision; please just bear us in mind.\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria was smooth and polite and nice. Erin relaxed a bit as Wailant sighed and put on a fake smile next to her. Erin fiddled with her thumbs.<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014I mean, in theory, yeah. It sounds good. Octavia\u2014she\u2019s an [Alchemist]\u2014she makes potions. She uses your grass, right?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cThat Stitch-Girl? I sold to her last week! Is she here?\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant exclaimed. He looked around. Octavia glanced up and groaned.<\/p>\n \u201cOh dead gods, it\u2019s the [Pirate].\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cHey! Are you in the inn too?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYes! I got kicked out of Celum! Or I left!\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cYou don\u2019t say?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria sighed, but Erin smiled. Then she looked at the Stronghearts.<\/p>\n \u201cI guess it\u2019s fine. I mean, Liscor might wanna tax you and stuff\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWe can handle that. If we\u2019re bringing goods into the city, we\u2019re naturally going to deal with the city on its own terms. All we ask from you is transportation, and we will pay for the service.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Green Mage] smiled and Erin smiled back, relieved.<\/p>\n \u201cWell\u2014I mean\u2014sure! Let\u2019s talk! Oh. But you probably can\u2019t go to Pallass easily. Or you\u2019ll have to negotiate.\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cWhat? Why? Pallass is where we need to be.\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant turned about, frowning. Erin tried to explain about the mana cost and the door.<\/p>\n \u201cHah! Is that<\/em> the problem? Just upgrade it. I bet you a decent [Enchanter] could do it.\u201d<\/p>\n The [Farmer] waved a hand. Viceria frowned.<\/p>\n \u201cIt\u2019s an artifact, dear. I couldn\u2019t guess at what level you\u2019d have to be to improve this door. Archmage Nailihuaile could do it, I\u2019m certain. But anyone below her?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cDamn. But you can take things through, yeah? How many people\u2019s worth?\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cTwo. Or four, but only one way.\u201d<\/p>\n The young woman spread her hands. Wailant laughed.<\/p>\n \u201cFine, then! I\u2019ll take it through in bags of holding! Unless\u2014no, I have one right here. I just walk through, sell my stuff, and go back. I\u2019ll negotiate with whoever I need to in Pallass\u2014I mean, my lovely wife will.\u201d<\/p>\n He nodded at Viceria. Erin chewed her lip.<\/p>\n \u201cI guess that\u2019s okay. I mean, if you get permission\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n \u201cLet\u2019s make it a deal, then!\u201d<\/p>\n Wailant exclaimed, threw an arm around Erin\u2019s shoulders, and held out a hand. She frowned and eyed his arm.<\/p>\n \u201cDear. You\u2019re being rude to Miss Solstice. Don\u2019t pressure her. Some might call that forceful. Or dishonest.\u201d<\/p>\n Viceria\u2019s eyes flashed. Wailant paused.<\/p>\n \u201cI\u2019m as honest as can be! I was<\/em> a [Pirate], but I\u2019ve turned over a new leaf. Apologies, Miss Erin. You can\u2019t take the salt out of my sails.\u201d<\/p>\n