{"id":7970,"date":"2020-03-29T00:27:03","date_gmt":"2020-03-29T00:27:03","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/wandering-inn\/?p=7970"},"modified":"2025-12-24T01:00:56","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T01:00:56","slug":"7-15-r","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wanderinginn.com\/2020\/03\/29\/7-15-r\/","title":{"rendered":"7.15 R"},"content":{"rendered":"

(Two new banners at the top of the stite by Raoul Corella!<\/a> The inn in spring and winter! Look out for them here<\/a> and here!<\/a> Or refresh the page a few times. Big thanks to him!)<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was a love story for the ages. A young [Lord] and [Lady], specifically, Lord Bein of the Terland family, and Lady Dealia of the minor house of the Zolde nobility. A scandalous matchup perhaps, but one that was sanctioned through love and touched the hearts of everyone with the sophistication to appreciate such modern-day romances that defied social convention.<\/p>\n

If you lacked the sophistication to really appreciate the nuance of that event, or didn\u2019t keep up with the trends of nobility in Izril, well, it was<\/em> one of the topics of discussion in certain circles.<\/p>\n

The average layperson\u2026might not know about the pairing, but then again, people liked to keep track of such things, like those who obsessively followed marriages and courtly dramas in Terandrian monarchies.<\/p>\n

Like\u2014for instance, war brewing between Ailendamus and other nations was actually overshadowed in the circles of gossip by scandalous cheating in bedrooms, or frivolous details. For instance, have you heard<\/em> that the 6th Princess of Calanfer had refused every single suitor, except for partaking in the most removed of dances? It was speculated that she had a serious suitor, or else\u2026some kind of disease.<\/p>\n

Either or. But the point was that such pairings among the nobility were important. They had to be, otherwise what was the point?<\/p>\n

Anyways, Lord Bein and Lady Dealia. Scandalous, yes. Because Lord Bein was a member of the Terland family, one of the Five Families of Izril, and thus one of the most powerful nobility in the world. He wasn\u2019t\u2026from the main branch of the family or anything, but even so, they had standards<\/em>. And Lady Dealia was a member of the Zolde nobility, who had come to Izril just a moment ago\u2014two hundred years back, fleeing unrest in Chandrar.<\/p>\n

They were thus, still, \u2018Chandrarian\u2019 to many of the nobility. And marrying into their family was something that a wealthy person, or perhaps an adventurer, or someone else, might do. Or some of the other minor nobles, yes, but a member of the Five Families?<\/p>\n

Ah, but it was love.<\/em> A love story! Like that haute new thing, \u2018plays\u2019, sweeping through Invrisil? Have you seen\u2026?<\/p>\n

Love indeed. Lord Bein had been head over heels with Lady Dealia and the courtship had occupied the minds of those who spent time dwelling on such things. Of course, her family was delighted<\/em> by the suggestion and Lord Bein had won over his parents after some wrangling. It had been his mother who\u2019d really disliked the concept, but once Lord Bein had persuaded his father, the good Lord Sheldae Terland, to support the marriage, the engagement had been on.<\/p>\n

Love triumphed over social class, that was the lesson here. A young [Lord] of the Five Families could marry a\u2026lesser [Lady] from Chandrar two hundred years back. Believe in love.<\/p>\n

Although\u2026it didn\u2019t hurt that Lady Dealia was one of the most beautiful [Ladies] in all of Izril. Blessed by birth, or perhaps Skills, she occupied the list of the top ten [Ladies] to marry (and yes, there were lists). In fact, she\u2019d been ranked fourth, right below Lady Wuvren. The famous Wuvren had held her position on that list since she\u2019d turned sixteen\u2014for the last fifty years or so.<\/p>\n

All this to say that love\u2014and perhaps her being extremely attractive\u2014had made Lord Bein leap for the engagement and true love. The engagement had, in fact, been going forwards. Albeit with some sabotage by his mother, wrangling by both families\u2014but no more than usual.<\/p>\n

It was scheduled next month, and it was certainly going to be a large wedding; the nobility loved good weddings and many would turn up, which would probably begin more romances, intrigues, and so on.<\/p>\n

Well and good, well and good. Love, marriage\u2014it would have been perfect<\/em>, but for one thing. And that thing would be\u2014Lady Hetessana Wellfar.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou pig! You faithless dog!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Bein Terland fled the private bedroom of Lady Hetessana Wellfar, one of the most eligible [Dowagers]<\/em> in all of Izril as she pursued him. Half-naked, and fully in fury. The widowed Hetessana was of the Wellfar family, another of the Five Families of Izril.<\/p>\n

Where the Terlands were known mainly for their trade in magical artifacts and, having fallen on hard times since their days of glory, the Wellfar family had kept their gold and husbanded it, in husbands, but also the far more practical business of ships and trade. Lady Hetessana had been married to one of the [Ship Lords], and she had inherited a lot of wealth from her husband upon his untimely death at sea.<\/p>\n

She had genuinely mourned him, too, and had been known as a [Lady] first mourning the loss of her husband\u2014and then grieving her loneliness. She was in her late fifties, and had not benefited from Skills that made Lady Wuvren so\u2026eye-catching.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can explain!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou told me it was an accident! How dare you!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The older [Lady] shouted as she pursued Lord Bein. Servants poked their heads out as they saw the two nobles quarrelling\u2014and immediately decided they had seen and heard nothing. Both were in a state of undress.<\/p>\n

The\u2026relationship between Lady Hetessana and Lord Bein wasn\u2019t well-known by anyone. But Lord Bein had, in fact, prior to falling for Lady Dealia, been seeing the older Lady of the Wellfar family. For about two years, actually. And benefitting from the relationship in more ways than just the purity of romance.<\/p>\n

\u201cI gave you everything! Gold, favors\u2014we were to be married at the end of the year and you\u2014you only loved me for my wealth? Is that it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lady Hetessana\u2019s face was a mask of grief. Because she had loved the young [Lord] who had courted her in secret. She had assumed it had been a love story, right up until this moment. The older [Lady] did not keep up with gossip, and the engagement had caught her off guard.<\/p>\n

\u201cHetessana, I can explain\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Bein ducked a shoe. He had indeed tried to explain. But he\u2019d clearly failed. Lady Hetessana looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were seduced?<\/em> In that case\u2014call off the engagement!\u201d<\/p>\n

The younger man spread his hands, turning red.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne can\u2019t just call off an engagement, Hetessana. My hand was forced. I tried to talk my father out of it\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLiar!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

This time a pot flew and Lord Bein ducked it. He wasn\u2019t quite sure why his carefully-crafted explanations were failing, but perhaps he hadn\u2019t ever run into a situation up till now that had required actual subterfuge. Or the kind of consequences he couldn\u2019t walk away from.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou scoundrel.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lady Hetessana sagged as one of her [Handmaids] came out to support her. She was grey in the face, with shock and pain, but she looked at the half-clothed Lord Bein with a kind of grim determination. She pointed and he flinched, but she threw only words now.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou will pay. For lying to me. And to your young [Lady]. Does she<\/em> know about us?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHetessana\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe doesn\u2019t, does she? Or that you promised<\/em> to marry me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Bein\u2019s eyes flickered. Hetessana laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019ll know. Everyone<\/em> will know! I\u2019ll shout it from the rooftops if I must!\u201d<\/p>\n

Her reputation be damned. Lord Bein paled at the implications. Not only might the engagement be called off, this might have consequences in his own family.<\/p>\n

\u201cHetessana, please, let me explain!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve lost the right to call me that. Begone from my presence! And you had better pray that the Zolde household doesn\u2019t answer insult with blades! They\u2019re Chandrarian, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older [Lady] shook her head. She was turning away. Lord Bein looked at her, and his temper flared.<\/p>\n

\u201cSay what you will! I\u2019ll deny everything! This was nothing more than a\u2014a mistake! And I promised you nothing in truth!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] of the Wellfar family flinched. But the love she had felt and he\u2026had pretended to feel had turned to enmity in a moment. She spoke over her shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou shallow, snake of a boy. I\u2019ll swear it on truth spell before anyone who asks!\u201d<\/p>\n

But it would be her word against his. Lord Bein laughed. Lady Hetessana colored with fury.<\/p>\n

This could not be allowed to stand. But it might not halt an engagement. Not if it were words; after all, the affair had been conducted on her lands, and only her servants could attest to the relationship. How might she tell the truth? How might\u2026?<\/p>\n

And then she had it. Quick as could be, Hetessana hurried into the mansion. Lord Bein stared at her, confused, as he tried to pull out a change of clothes out of his bag of holding and put them on. He only saw the [Lady] return after a few minutes. And when she did\u2014<\/p>\n

She was holding a pendant. Lord Bein paled.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps Lady Dealia will believe this!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She shook the pendant that should have been around Lord Bein\u2019s neck at the young [Lord]. He felt at the spot where it had been\u2014but of course, he\u2019d taken it off!<\/p>\n

It was one of the Terland artifacts, passed down through their family. Not relic-class, but one of the priceless amulets that conveyed a number of magical effects. In this case, they grew in strength the more of the amulets there were, but even this one could help thwart an assassination attempt. Lord Bein really shouldn\u2019t have taken it off, but it chafed.<\/p>\n

\u201cLady Hetessana, give that back!\u201d<\/p>\n

She stared at him, triumphant at the sudden fear on his face, and anger. And still\u2014heartbroken, because half an hour ago, she had<\/em> loved him. But this was a real love story.<\/p>\n

\u201cI shall not. And the world will know of your infidelity!\u201d<\/p>\n

She whirled. Lord Bein made a strangled noise and ran at her. But Hetessana\u2019s [Servants] appeared, blocking him. They dared not do more, and suffered the young [Lord]\u2019s clumsy blows and swearing as he tried to push past them. He was, after all, despite everything, a member of the Terland family.<\/p>\n

But Lord Bein was also aware of Hetessana\u2019s power. So he didn\u2019t draw the sword he owned and hack at them, and he couldn\u2019t fight his way past the press of bodies. In the end, after trying to rush left or right past the line of servants, he gave up. Panting, he shouted at Hetessana\u2019s back.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll never deliver it, Hetessana! I swear!\u201d<\/p>\n

He raced off, looking for his horse. Lady Hetessana stared at him as he ran off, and then handed the pendant to one of her handmaidens. Then she sank into her bed and wept.<\/p>\n

Perhaps, if she had been faster, the servants might have beaten Lord Bein to his estates. But Lady Hetessana took time for her grief. To her cost.<\/p>\n

The first [Thief] came like\u2026a thief in the night. He was intercepted by her guards, but the second and third came within just as many days.<\/p>\n

Lord Bein had hired [Thieves] to steal back his pendant, and the proof of their relationship. Faced with that, and knowing that her security couldn\u2019t withstand a high-level attempt for long, Lady Hetessana made a quick decision. She made a public announcement about her relationship with Lord Bein and shattered the illusion of love across Izril\u2019s social gossip circles.<\/p>\n

The Terland family instantly denied the allegations. Lord Bein stridently claimed it was Hetessana\u2019s madness and grief, and that he had only shown the [Dowager] a short kindness and a relationship that had gone nowhere. Lady Hetessana swore she had proof.<\/p>\n

The pendant. It had to go to Lady Dealia\u2014who was obviously troubled by the claims but stood by the man she loved\u2014or Bein\u2019s family. Dealia preferably; the Terlands were standing with Lord Bein and might hush up the truth, even if it was delivered to them.<\/p>\n

But Lady Hetessana feared theft or ambush along the long distance north and east, towards the Zolde households. Lord Bein had, through Izril\u2019s underworld, put out a bounty on that pendant. Anyone delivering it, even one of Hetessana\u2019s servants, might be targeted by [Bandits] or anyone seeking the bounty. And it was a hefty price. So, Lady Hetessana sent a [Message] for someone who could deliver the pendant at speed, and without delay or interception.<\/p>\n

She sent for a Courier. That had been one day ago.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The [Raiders] saw their mark coming down the road. He was a Courier.<\/p>\n

Lacel the Leaper. Not the best of names, but he was a Courier. And he bore Lady Hetessana\u2019s pendant. The [Raiders] were well aware of all this, and they were prepared to cash in on the ten thousand<\/em> gold coin bounty Lord Bein had put on the pendant.<\/p>\n

Unofficially. No Adventurer\u2019s Guild or any other official guild had posted the bounty. But there were unofficial channels for Izril\u2019s underworld, and they had spread words about the bounty to everyone.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalt!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Raid Leader] was a rough woman used to doing what it took to survive. She\u2019d been banned from over a dozen cities and three times that many towns and villages, but she was tired of a life spent living in fear of the law. This was her and her gang\u2019s big break.<\/p>\n

She fired a crossbow as her group burst from their cover along the tall brush they\u2019d been hiding in and charged down towards the trade road Lacel was running down.<\/p>\n

The Courier was running fast, nearly as fast as a horse, but he had more endurance Skills than mobility. He jerked and stared up as the [Bandits] raced at him, firing weak spells from wands and shooting arrows.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Some of the travellers on the road panicked at the sight of the [Raiders]. They weren\u2019t expected, not so close to Invrisil! But the [Raiders] were only focusing on Lacel. He instantly blurred<\/em> and turned into six different figures who all went racing in different directions.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s using a damn illusion! Split up and get him!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Raid Leader] swore and turned her mount, pursuing the one racing for Invrisil\u2019s gates, several miles distant. She blew past a frightened family on the road as the gang of eighteen [Raiders] raced past her.<\/p>\n

A caravan of a family riding in covered wagons hid as the [Raiders] streamed past them. A [Trader] with a bag of holding and a pack mule dove for cover, grabbing at his emergency wand, prepared to fight only in self-defense. A group of young people riding a wagon surrounded by hired [Mercenaries] alternatively panicked and stared at the spectacle as the [Guards] swore and closed ranks, more aware of the danger.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalt or we\u2019ll cut you down, Courier!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Raid Leader] had seen through Lacel\u2019s illusion. Her gang was pursuing the other five illusions, but who would run away<\/em> from the safety of Invrisil\u2019s walls? She reloaded her crossbow and then swung her mace out of its holster. Either one would do for the Courier.<\/p>\n

Lacel the Leaper looked back at the [Raid Leader] and swore. He was a lanky fellow, with long legs. As the [Raid Leader] closed on him, he ran left, desperately, passing by a bluff of stone rocks leading uphill. The [Raid Leader] swore and angled towards him. But he was too far from the stones! She lifted her mace as she aimed\u2014<\/p>\n

And Lacel jumped.<\/em><\/p>\n

Straight up, into the air. And gravity forgot Lacel existed for a second. The [Raid Leader] watched, open-mouthed, as the Courier flew.<\/p>\n

Ten feet. Then twenty. Thirty\u2014and his back arced as he landed on the top of the hill. The gang stared<\/em>. Lacel looked around wildly, and then he leapt again. He flew<\/em>, and the [Raid Leader] turned her horse.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet him! He\u2019s only good at jumping! Get him and\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She ducked as the Courier threw something at her. An explosion; he was throwing damn Alchemist\u2019s Fire! She swore, but her [Raiders] were tasting blood. They raced after him, shooting arrows that swerved as they neared the Courier. And he was jumping, throwing exploding flasks.<\/p>\n

It was a running battle and the people on the road hid as the [Raiders] tried to bring down the Courier. But he was<\/em> a Courier. And not only could he run almost as fast as the horses they rode, he was armed.<\/p>\n

And he jumped high. Still, he was making for Invrisil at best speed rather than trying to wipe the [Raiders] out like another Courier might. And as the fighting entered the second minute, the [Raiders] racing after Lacel, the terrified family in the covered wagons were huddled together. And from the rear one, a figure poked his head out.<\/p>\n

Three figures, actually. A yawning Stitch-woman adjusted the stitches around her neck. A slumbering old [Mage] was still waking up, rather disoriented. The Stitch-woman, who had a wand in one hand, nodded at the [Raiders] racing past them.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the word, Halrac? Summons?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Cover me.\u201d<\/p>\n

The voice came from inside the wagon. And the man, the [Veteran Scout], a scruffy, yet-to-be-shaved beard on his face, and an expression that suggested that smiling was a foreign idea to him, pushed out of the wagon\u2019s interior.<\/p>\n

The family stared at him. Because the man wasn\u2019t armed. He carried no weapons.<\/p>\n

Or rather\u2014it looked like he was carrying nothing. But\u2014why was he holding his hand like that? As if he was pretending<\/em> to aim a bow. But it looked realistic. And he did have a quiver.<\/p>\n

One of the two young boys in the family watched as the grim man plucked an arrow from the quiver. He was still\u2026holding nothing but air. But then he did something and the arrow vanished.<\/em><\/p>\n

The young boy gaped. He saw the [Scout], the Gold-Rank adventurer, pause. And then\u2014the shimmering patch of air shifted. The invisible bow and the now-invisible arrow moved.<\/p>\n

Tft. <\/em>The family stared ahead. They saw the galloping [Raiders] rushing forwards. And then\u2014up ahead\u2014the [Raid Leader] fell out of her saddle. Lacel the Leaper blinked. He eyed the now-visible arrow buried in the back of her head. Halrac grunted. He drew another arrow, sighted, loosed.<\/p>\n

A second [Raider] fell. The gang shouted in panic, staring at Lacel. They thought the arrows were coming from the Courier. They only realized they were being assaulted from behind after two more arrows sent their riders tumbling out of the saddles, screaming.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think they saw us.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm? Are we under attack?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous was still waking up. The old [Mage] had white hair and a beard, but he moved surprisingly quickly for someone his age. The two boys in the family\u2019s wagon stared as Typhenous unsheathed a wicked dagger as he lifted his staff.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou missed it, old man. We\u2019re attacking<\/em> them. They\u2019re looking this way, Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi warned the leader of Griffon Hunt. Halrac shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do they see?\u201d<\/p>\n

He paused as he lowered his bow. From afar he looked unarmed. And the [Raiders] indeed looked straight past him\u2014until he raised his bow and shot another through the nose. As in\u2014straight through the bridge of the nose and the rest of the woman\u2019s head.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh! Dead gods, Halrac!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi recoiled from the sight. The [Raiders] froze as Halrac aimed again.<\/p>\n

\u201cCover me if they charge, Revi. Typhenous, shields up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this an attack? I missed the beginning. [Force Wall]. Just below your chin, Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGot it.\u201d<\/p>\n

The shimmering barrier appeared as Typhenous cast his spell. The [Raiders] were debating charging or fleeing the threat. But Halrac kept loosing arrows.<\/p>\n

Some of them charged. The rest fled. But their arrows and spells hit the [Force Wall]. The barrier was mostly invisible as well, and did indeed cover the entire frightened family in the wagon and Halrac\u2014just up to his chin. He shot over the magical barrier. Revi lifted her wand\u2014but never cast a single spell.<\/p>\n

The [Raiders] died on that busy road. The horses, terrified, galloped around until they were captured. And the patrol of Invrisil\u2019s Watch arrived too late.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d arrived quickly.<\/em> Fifteen minutes and they were out on the trade road in force. But they just found the dead [Raiders] and a bunch of lined-up horses being shepherded together by glowing, summoned warriors.<\/p>\n

And Griffon Hunt. Lacel the Leaper had run on without so much as pausing. But the Gold-rank adventurers were taking their dues.<\/p>\n

Applause. And the [Raider]\u2019s horses and gear. Halrac halted in prying the [Raid Leader]\u2019s mace out of her stiff hands as the [Sergeant] on horseback waved at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me! Are you an adventurer?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. Halrac\u2026Captain of Griffon Hunt.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout]\u2019s voice hitched a second as he gave his title. The [Sergeant] relaxed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell then, you\u2019ve done us a favor. Thank you, sir. Did you see what those [Bandits] were after?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot [Bandits], [Raiders].\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous corrected the [Sergeant]. He casually yanked a gold tooth out of an open mouth. The [Guards] winced.<\/em> So did Revi, who was helping.<\/p>\n

\u201cTyphenous!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s gold, Revi. Be a dear and help me with the bag of holding? [Raiders], indeed. You can tell by their armor and style. Bandits operate from a base. [Raiders] are hit-and-run\u2014aha. Another tooth. Silver. Revi, stop fidgeting.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Sergeant] swallowed as Typhenous bent over the corpse. But that was adventurers for you. He cleared his throat and noticed Revi\u2019s summoned warriors herding the horses together.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdventurer Halrac, er, can I assume your team is claiming salvage rights on the [Raiders]?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. We can dispose of the bodies as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, well then.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Watch brightened a bit. So did the [Sergeant].<\/p>\n

This was protocol.<\/em> It might have been alien to the travellers watching as the Gold-rank adventurers, er\u2026looted the dead, but the Watch and the adventurers were used to it.<\/p>\n

Salvage rights for the criminals\u2019 possessions. Griffon Hunt was entitled to it, but that meant also disposing of the corpses or paying the Watch a fee. If you just looted the bodies and left them to rot, well, you could be fined for it. You could get away with that around Celum, maybe.<\/em><\/p>\n

But this was Invrisil. There were rules, for adventurers and the Watch. And in accordance with the rules, Halrac paused from collecting items he could sell and let the [Sergeant] take down his team\u2019s name.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s Griffon Hunt with a \u2018o\u2019. Griffon.<\/em> As in, the dog. G-r-i-f-f-o-n.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, I see. Let me just\u2014Halrac Everam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Our team used to be led by Ulrien\u2014the records might not have changed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, sir. Oh. I mean\u2014I\u2019m sorry, if it was a loss\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac folded his arms, waiting. Flustered, the [Sergeant] recorded the details. Then he thanked Halrac again, went to reassure everyone that everything was under control<\/em>, and left. Halrac watched him go, then he sighed and went back to the [Raiders]. There was a nice bit of chainmail on the [Raid Leader] and, unsavory as it was, it would fetch a good price.<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt couldn\u2019t afford to turn down free money. So, tedious as it was, and as much as he\u2019d like to get to Invrisil, Halrac began to strip the dead woman. He\u2019d been on the road a long time, and delayed from reaching Invrisil for ages<\/em>. He hoped that the magic door was working there, but he hadn\u2019t heard a rumor about that yet. And you would hear rumors if The Wandering Inn reached Invrisil.<\/p>\n

It hadn\u2019t been a productive month, by and large. And Halrac was in a bad mood.<\/p>\n

But then\u2014what was new?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u201cI think that\u2019s everything. I\u2019ve got all the bodies lined up. How\u2019re we doing this? Burning? Acid? Valmira\u2019s Comet?\u201d<\/p>\n

About twenty minutes later, Revi dusted her palms as she turned to the three-person team that was Griffon Hunt. She was looking at Halrac, their leader, but it was Typhenous who replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnless you\u2019d like to scatter body parts across a hundred feet, Revi, I think fire will do. Halrac?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo it. Revi, why is that family waiting?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac gestured at the wagon that they\u2019d been hitching a ride on. Revi squinted.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026think they\u2019re waiting for us to come with them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have the [Raider]\u2019s horses. We\u2019ll ride them to Invrisil and find a [Hostler]. Let them know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, boss. I\u2019ll endure them thanking you and being grateful<\/em> so you don\u2019t have to.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi mock-saluted Halrac as she ambled over to the wagon and anxious family. Halrac scowled at her back. Typhenous chuckled. He aimed his staff at the bodies\u2014already beginning to smell a tiny bit in the heat\u2014and shot flames from his staff.<\/p>\n

Cremation. Halrac watched impassively. His nose stung with the smoke and smell, but Typhenous didn\u2019t bat an eyelash. Halrac\u2019s face was locked in a scowl as he saw travellers moving past. Some called out, asking what had happened, but the Gold-rank adventurer didn\u2019t respond.<\/p>\n

He was in a foul mood. Not from the [Raiders]. But he\u2019d been scowling the last\u2026week. And yes, Halrac, sometimes known as \u2018Halrac the Grim\u2019 for that very feature, usually didn\u2019t smile. But his team had learned to tell the varying levels of dissatisfaction or non-emotion contained on his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re off. And they\u2019d love<\/em> to thank you in person, Halrac. What with you being a hero to the little boys and everything. But I told them that a big, important<\/em> adventurer didn\u2019t have time to spend on goodbyes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi came back. If Halrac\u2019s default mode was dour, hers was probably nettling people. Halrac turned his glare on her.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you said that, Revi\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He almost started back towards the wagon, which was indeed turning back onto the road. Revi threw up her hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t! It was a joke! Calm down, Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

The surly adventurer glared at her, but relaxed.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t lie, then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t take your bad mood out on me. Pshaw! It stinks! Hold on, I\u2019m taking my nose off.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi gagged at the smell. She reached up and began to undo the tiny, invisible stitches on her nose. She pulled off her nose, revealing just blank skin underneath. Halrac and Typhenous ignored her as the bodies burned nicely. They were used to it.<\/p>\n

\u201cGive it five minutes and they should be fit to douse with water. Revi, my dear\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t call me that, old man. I\u2019ll get you the nicest horse.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know me too well.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi rolled her eyes as she whistled. The glowing apparitions herded the nervous horses closer. Typhenous, still projecting flames from his staff, eyed them.<\/p>\n

\u201cDecent horseflesh. I think we could get a good price for some of them. If we don\u2019t keep them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like a horse. That one\u2019s beautiful.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMm. Bad lines, Revi. But indeed, a lovely coat.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous studied the horses with a practiced eye. Revi deferred to him with a sigh.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a nice saddle on that one. You want? And can I ride the lovely one?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf we\u2019re not in a hurry, by all means.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s mine, then. Halrac, you want a horse?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI. Don\u2019t. Care. Let\u2019s just get them moving. And we\u2019re selling all but three at the nearest stables.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi and Typhenous exchanged a glance. Their smiles faltered. Silently, they found their horses. By the time Typhenous extinguished the fire with a jet of water, the corpses were mostly destroyed by the fire. The horses were herded by the summons, who ran behind the three adventurers as they travelled down the road.<\/p>\n

Towards Invrisil, the City of Adventurers. It was their destination that they\u2019d been heading to for about two weeks. They\u2019d made a detour, taken well over a month to head east first\u2014but now they were on the way.<\/p>\n

It had been\u2026wasted time. Time badly spent. And for adventurers, that was a problem.<\/p>\n

Time was money. Also, money was money. Artifacts were money. Levels were money. In the end, they really just wanted money. Money, and fame, and levels, and power. That was why adventurers existed. Some lived for the glory of it, or the thrill, or even\u2026because it was necessary and right to fight against monsters. But to most, it was a career choice.<\/p>\n

This was Griffon Hunt\u2019s perspective. They weren\u2019t a rag-tag group of unlikely souls, like the Horns of Hammerad, united despite disparate motives. Nor were they the easy-going group of friends and outcasts like the Halfseekers. And they were certainly not altruistic heroes like the Silver Swords.<\/p>\n

They were a team of co-workers who adventured for a living. And they had lost their leader, Ulrien. In Liscor, in a fight in an inn against a Named Adventurer who\u2019d turned out to be a murderer, Regrika Blackpaw. They had lost him, and yet, they had also come away with a windfall from the dungeon.<\/p>\n

A magical bow, the one Halrac now used. Treasure. Gold, and artifacts, ready to be sold! An adventurer\u2019s dream.<\/p>\n

And yet. Griffon Hunt could be said to be down on its luck. Even now. Like the Halfseekers, Griffon Hunt had been larger, once. And if they hadn\u2019t been one of the top Gold-rank teams, somewhat famous north and south of Izril like the Halfseekers had been\u2014they had been larger. Three times as large, almost. Respected for being one of the hunting teams who fought Griffins with\u2026Griffons.<\/em> Hunting dogs.<\/p>\n

Now\u2014they were this. They rode in silence. Halrac in a foul mood, and Revi and Typhenous knew why. Moreover\u2014the two [Mages] exchanged glances. It was Revi, the [Summoner], whose magical apparitions were helping guide the rest of the horses, who brought it up.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm. Captain.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac turned his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t call me that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, boss. Leader. Uh\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCommander Everam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood one, Typh.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac just glared. Revi went on after a moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook, I\u2019m sorry about Elm. But\u2026do you want to talk about it or something? I mean, what do we do?\u201d<\/p>\n

She and Typhenous looked at each other again. And there it was.<\/p>\n

A bit of distance. Because they weren\u2019t exactly the oldest of pals. Revi and Typhenous were new to Griffon Hunt. Two years as teammates, but not like Ulrien had been, a fellow [Soldier] Halrac had served with.<\/p>\n

Or even the rest of Griffon Hunt. They were new. And they\u2019d stuck with the team after half of its members had upped and quit. After a disaster with Griffins.<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt was still remembered in parts of the north for the plague they\u2019d unleashed to combat a huge influx of migrating Griffins. It had stopped the rampaging Griffins, but the plague had spread and killed\u2026a lot of people.<\/p>\n

Their reputation had been tarnished, and the group had nearly disbanded. Four had kept working, including Revi and Typhenous, the newest [Mages] who had been blamed for the incident, Typhenous especially. They had gone south seeking a fortune, a new break.<\/p>\n

Three now rode north. And only one was of the old guard, the originals. More still lived. Like Elm, one of the original founders of the team. But he\u2026hadn\u2019t taken meeting his former comrades well.<\/p>\n

About a week ago, they\u2019d met Elm. One of the old members of Griffon Hunt who\u2019d left after the plague incident. They\u2019d met him, though, to re-establish their bonds, to make amends, as Halrac put it.<\/p>\n

It had not been a good meeting. There might have been\u2014tension. Perhaps a bit of enmity. In fact, there might<\/em> have been a fight. That involved Halrac putting Elm, the [Ranger], through<\/em> a door. Headfirst.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, at least he didn\u2019t want any of the gold we offered him. That\u2019s something, right? We\u2019re six thousand gold up. And we didn\u2019t even pay for the door.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac glared<\/em>. Revi hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026look, I know it was bad. But he said his thing, we said ours. He\u2019s quits. What do we do, Halrac?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] had a way with looks. But in his new role as team captain, he couldn\u2019t get by on glares alone. He replied slowly, his hands clenched on the reins.<\/p>\n

\u201cElm\u2019s not joining us. If he wants the gold, he can get it. We owe that to the old team. And we keep reaching out. Briganda\u2019s meeting us at Invrisil.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. But if we get into a fight with her\u2014maybe don\u2019t fight with your fists? She\u2019s a [Shield Maiden].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI started nothing.<\/em> Elm was the one who\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac glanced at Typhenous. The white-haired [Mage] lowered his head slightly, a nod at Halrac. Revi glanced between the two. Tensions had been strained. In the past, and recently.<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, right. He deserved it. All I\u2019m saying is\u2014don\u2019t do that with Briganda. Because she could probably thrash all three of us in a fight. And if she says no?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe reach out to Cassielle. And then we\u2019re done.\u201d<\/p>\n

The last member of the original team. Revi nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cCool. Yeah. Where is he?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTerandria.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRiiiiiight\u2026are we going to visit him? Because if we are\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe hasn\u2019t sent a [Message] back. But we\u2019ll contact him. We\u2019re making things right. Even if they don\u2019t want it. Any problems?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNone. No, I agreed. I mean, it\u2019s our treasure from Liscor. Which we fought for. And you know, nearly died for. But hey, let\u2019s give it back.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi grumped, but she subsided after a bit. It was\u2014well, it was just like this. In silence, the three adventurers rode on. And the best word for them was\u2026decent. Good. Competent, well-practiced, a team that could wipe out low-level [Raiders] and handle threats most Silver-rank teams couldn\u2019t.<\/p>\n

But understaffed. Still, Revi was in this team down to her threads. And she\u2019d keep this team together if she had to be the anchor, damn it. This was a good team!<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2014[Raiders], huh? That was Lacel the Leaper, you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHrgh.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac might have been responding there. Typhenous on the other hand stroked his beard.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh. Was it? Then we might have interfered with Izrilian drama in the making.\u201d<\/p>\n

He winked at Revi. The [Summoner] was nodding, a pleased look on her face. Silence, then. After a second, Halrac turned his head.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026What drama?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou haven\u2019t heard about Lady Hetessana and Lord Bein? And Lady Dealia? Halrac!\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi was shocked. The [Scout] just stared at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does that have to do with a Courier and\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. Some kind of drama?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi had to recount the tale of sordid betrayal for Halrac.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, they don\u2019t know<\/em> she\u2019s telling the truth, but I heard that she hired a Courier to take the pendant! And if that was<\/em> him\u2014her estates are some of the most southern. So\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous chuckled.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Lady Dealia may be receiving a package, Halrac. And if it is the pendant, she will be able to appraise it very quickly. And Lord Bein will be in a lot of trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi grinned happily.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hear<\/em> that Lady Dealia\u2019s promised to call off the engagement if it\u2019s true. And her brothers have sworn to stab Lord Bein through the heart if it is. I can\u2019t wait. And I\u2019m happy I can be part of it. Makes me feel warm inside.\u201d<\/p>\n

She poked at her chest for emphasis. Halrac just looked at her, nonplussed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you so interested in gossip about the nobility, Revi?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-girl shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cEh. I just really like hearing about the stupid stuff they get up to. Keeps me entertained.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I keep my ear to all sources of information, Halrac. Speaking of which\u2014while I haven\u2019t heard of a magic door in Invrisil, I think there is at least one familiar thing in the City of Adventurers for us.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that would be?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac eyed Typhenous, and then turned forwards. And there was the City of Adventurers.<\/p>\n

Vast, sprawling, guarded by low, ten-foot walls that seemed to be expanding with each passing year, the City of Adventurers was a metropolis, one of the largest cities in the continent, like First Landing in the north. Invrisil was a hub which connected the heart of the Human\u2019s northern lands.<\/p>\n

It was also owned, at least in part, by Magnolia Reinhart. And it was generally safe\u2014from war or [Raiders], or at least, more so than other lands. The Goblin Lord and the [Raiders] of this morning being notable exceptions.<\/p>\n

One of the many gates into the city had a queue in front of it. Revi exclaimed as the horses snorted, catching unfamiliar scents. Invrisil was vast, too vast to take in all at once.<\/p>\n

\u201cAha! Culture!<\/em> I can\u2019t wait to sleep in an actual bed for once!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s in Invrisil, Typhenous?\u201d<\/p>\n

Even Halrac had to relax upon seeing the city, with its abundance of things to see or do. But he eyed Typhenous. The [Plague Mage] raised a soothing hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t want to say until I\u2019m sure. Rumors are rumors\u2026and there was a group of imposters\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cImpostor what?<\/em> I don\u2019t want any more surprises, Typhenous.\u201d<\/p>\n

Not after the door incident. <\/em>Halrac\u2019s tone was warning, but Typhenous just stroked his beard.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing untoward, I promise, glorious Captain.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t call me that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Captain.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs you wish, Sir.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac Everam glowered. The three adventurers lined up the horses to the side of the gates, or rather, Revi\u2019s summons did. But the three adventurers waited patiently in line with everyone else, slowly moving forwards.<\/p>\n

There were [Guards] at the gates, checking cargo or waving people through. And it might have been odd, for a Gold-rank team to wait behind a humble [Trader] or wagons full of produce. But again\u2014they might have been Gold-rank, and that was important, but there were rules.<\/p>\n

Of course, there were people the rules didn\u2019t apply to. The three adventurers saw Lacel the Leaper. He\u2019d made it to Invrisil, but had been stalled here at the gates.<\/p>\n

Not because the [Guards] wouldn\u2019t let him through. As a Runner, all he had to do was show his seal and he could race past. But he\u2019d stopped\u2026<\/p>\n

To shake hands. And talk with the people in line. They were crowded around the Courier for a chance to meet him\u2014and to ask if he was carrying the pendant.<\/em> Lacel refused to show them the hidden package. Halrac stared at him as the Courier\u2019s voice became audible.<\/p>\n

\u201cRunner\u2019s confidentiality, people! But I can promise you, I\u2019m doing my best! Those [Raiders] weren\u2019t much of a threat\u2014there\u2019s always desperate sorts. But low-level [Bandits]?\u201d<\/p>\n

He laughed. The people crowded around him laughed too, some looking awed. Halrac just snorted. Revi sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cOoh. And Lacel the Leaper has a fat head. That\u2019s a shame. If he were a Stitch-man, we could take some of the stuffing out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous looked extremely interested.<\/p>\n

\u201cReally?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNah, I wish. It doesn\u2019t work that way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lacel was smiling, shaking hands. He must have been doing it the last thirty minutes because he was going down the line of people. Revi leaned out of her saddle.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Lacel! What happens if the Bloodfeast Raiders<\/em> take that ten thousand gold bounty on the pendant?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Courier\u2019s broad smile slipped. He froze, and then saw her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Miss\u2014I\u2019d have to weigh my options, wouldn\u2019t I? But a Courier must deliver! Say\u2014aren\u2019t you the adventurers from the ambush?\u201d<\/p>\n

He did a double-take and then strode over to them. Everyone turned to Griffon Hunt. Halrac found a hand being thrust up at him. He shook it reluctantly and saw Lacel smiling at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for the help, sir. Not that I couldn\u2019t deal with the [Raiders], but I prefer to outrun them! I appreciate the help!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt wasn\u2019t a problem.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNevertheless! I\u2019ll buy you a drink if you\u2019re staying in the city. I\u2019m staying the night\u2014I\u2019d rather jog from big city to city.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not worried about [Thieves]?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi queried, interested. Lacel smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cFootpads? Thieves? Most are too low-level and a good inn keeps them out. No, it\u2019s safer to stick to cities with good lodging. While I\u2019m awake, I can\u2019t be jumped by anyone below my level!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026just adventurers and the Bloodfeast Raiders, then? How do you know we weren\u2019t hired?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lacel\u2019s smile slipped. Revi gave him a pleased grin. He coughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I doubt Lord Bein\u2014er, any unscrupulous persons trying to delay my package, that is\u2014can persuade adventurers to break their code. To the Adventurer\u2019s Guilds. Er\u2014are you Silver-ranks? Gold, I presume\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re Griffon Hunt<\/em>. Gold-ranks!\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi snapped. There was a murmur. But\u2014and it was funny\u2014Couriers were more well-known than a lot of Gold-rank teams. After all, some Gold-ranks were seen bringing in a Cyclops\u2019 head, or treasure from the ruins. But they mostly fought in caves, or places where people weren\u2019t likely to be alive. Couriers ran in public.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, thank you again. And I owe you that drink!\u201d<\/p>\n

Lacel smiled. He stepped back from the crowd and with a flourish, jogged towards the walls. He accelerated, and then leapt\u2014<\/em>straight over the heads of the startled [Guards].<\/p>\n

\u201cShow off.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac muttered, disapprovingly. Revi nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI almost hope someone gets him with an arrow. Almost. But I\u2019m on Lady Hetessana\u2019s side. I just can\u2019t believe some arrogant [Lords].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIndeed. One fortunate enough to find such a [Lady]? Ah, but if I were ten\u2026twenty years younger, I\u2019d have tried courting her.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous nodded sagely. Revi rolled her eyes. The adventurers ignored the people staring at them; they were used to being noticed. Indeed, Halrac heard an excited group at the north-eastern gates chattering ahead of them.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you see <\/em>that guy jump? That\u2019s a Courier!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIs Ryoka a Courier?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, she\u2019s a City Runner. She\u2019s got the wind, but she can\u2019t do that<\/em>. And that other guy? With the grumpy face? I told you! He\u2019s got the Invisibow! He\u2019s the Invisibow guy!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Veteran Scout] turned his head and saw a group of young men and women chattering. He stared at them. Had he heard\u2026?<\/p>\n

\u201cInvisibow. Hah!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Summoner] nearly fell out of her saddle laughing. Typhenous hid a smile behind his hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s er, a powerful artifact, Halrac. Useful, and it has an enchantment that propels arrows faster and further.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know that. I\u2019m just not used to it. I can\u2019t see<\/em> my arrows when I aim them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou and your invisibow.<\/em> Dead gods, that\u2019s hilarious. Let\u2019s hope it has another feature when we get it appraised.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi sniggered. Halrac rubbed at his forehead.<\/p>\n

\u201cRevi. Did you hear them say\u2026\u2018Ryoka\u2019 just now?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-girl stopped laughing. She sat up and glanced at the young people. From Earth.<\/p>\n

\u201cI heard it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous regarded the Earthers, but only with idle curiosity. He didn\u2019t know who they were. And nor did they know who he was\u2014they were staring at Revi\u2019s stitches next, exclaiming over them.<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Maybe she knows them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac paused. But he had gotten no communication about Ryoka. Nor about the Earthers. Because Erin hadn\u2019t contacted Griffon Hunt. The Silver Swords, yes. The Horns of Hammerad, yes, to find Ryoka.<\/p>\n

But not Griffon Hunt. They had a connection with Ryoka. After all\u2014Regrika Blackpaw had come for Ryoka. And they might not know it, but Erin did. And so did Ryoka. Thus, enough. Enough had been asked of them.<\/p>\n

So the young people from Earth and Griffon Hunt passed each other by. The adventurers got to the gates.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdventurers?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Griffon Hunt. Gold-rank.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Guards] eyed the adventurers a second time when they heard that. And the horses. But they directed the Gold-rank team into the city and pointed them to a stables\u2014within a stone\u2019s throw from the outer walls. Halrac, Revi, and Typhenous entered Invrisil, the City of Adventurers. Normally, orderly. And then they got to work.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re here. I\u2019ll send a Street Runner to find Briganda. We\u2019ll meet at the Adventurer\u2019s Guild in an hour if she\u2019s able. I\u2019ll also send a note to\u2026hold on. What\u2019s his name again?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEr\u2014the [Enchanter]? Hedault, I think.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac snapped his fingers.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, him. We\u2019ll ask if he can fit us into his schedule to appraise what we have and sell everything off. It might take a few days.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOr weeks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi sighed. Halrac shrugged. They were standing with the horses lined up outside the stables. A [Hostler] was waiting for them.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll let him know we have something he wants. He\u2019s generally interested in\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac nodded to the bag of holding he had Griffon Hunt\u2019s share of the treasure in. Revi nodded back.<\/p>\n

\u201cMan, I hate that guy. He cannot<\/em> take a joke.\u201d<\/p>\n

Her teammates looked at her. Typhenous coughed and Halrac nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood point. Revi doesn\u2019t have to come with us when we get everything appraised.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-girl scowled.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Commander Everam.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cStop calling\u2014we have an hour. Everyone\u2019s free to do what they want. Who\u2019s selling horses?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m gonna relax. Typhenous, you like haggling.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d prefer to check on my hunch. I\u2019ll meet everyone at the guild in an hour. Best of luck, glorious leader!\u201d<\/p>\n

The elderly [Mage] was already edging down the street, with surprising spryness. Halrac opened his mouth, and saw Revi hurrying off. He realized he was now in charge of selling the horses and getting the other three stabled until they found an inn.<\/p>\n

And of finding an inn. And people wondered why Halrac scowled all the time.<\/p>\n

For her part, Revi smirked as she left Halrac with the horses. And then\u2014she smiled. Because she was in Invrisil! And that meant she could relax.<\/em><\/p>\n

After all, she wasn\u2019t in her job for just<\/em> the thrill of wading through a swamp at three in the morning and feeling mud bonding with your thread. Revi was an adventurer\u2019s adventurer. And that meant she earned money\u2014<\/p>\n

And spent it. Revi wasn\u2019t going to adventure until the day she died. She had dreams. She was going to go home to Chandrar someday. Or\u2014or find a nice place in Izril. Settle down. Have a family. Sew a child with some Stitch-man.<\/p>\n

Or\u2026adopt one. Probably not Humans. Or Drakes. But Revi was thinking of Gnoll cubs these days. Mrsha had been very cute and adorable. Of course, it really depended on who she met. And going to Chandrar was dicey; her homeland of Doran was\u2026well, it had sort of been erased.<\/em><\/p>\n

Conquered. It was now part of the Empire of Sands. So that made going home sort of awkward. But maybe by the time she got back, Doran would be back again. Chandrar had those sort of moments, not like Izril, with the north and south unchanging. Well, except for the Antinium.<\/p>\n

The point was that Revi had a purpose. And in the meantime, well, for all the hard days of riding in cramped wagons and listening to Typhenous smack his mouth as he slept, or Halrac\u2019s scowls, Revi got to live like a [Queen] when she reached civilization.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey. Hey, which way to the Cloth District? Don\u2019t give me that look. Just point. No idea? People like me? Hey, you. Cloth District? That way? Thanks.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi navigated Invrisil much like she navigated life. By finding someone to help her. She was a [Summoner]. That meant she could call upon long-dead Stitch-people to fight for her, her ancestors mostly, summoned through pieces of their life-string embedded in summoning stones that recreated them.<\/p>\n

Or she could summon animals. Like a giant Face-Eater moth and\u2026other monsters. Corusdeer, etc. Revi was only limited by her mana pool and will, which allowed her creations to fight.<\/p>\n

For some reason, most of the people she stopped stared at her and didn\u2019t give her a straight answer, or just pointed wordlessly. That was helpful, but it was only as Revi was walking past a glass storefront that she realized she\u2019d forgotten to put her nose back on.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods damn it, Halrac!<\/em> Typhenous!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-girl swore. Her teammates had<\/em> to have noticed and she\u2019d not realized she hadn\u2019t smelled anything the last little bit. So that was them getting back at her! Annoyed, Revi found a tiny needle and sewed the nose hurriedly back on. She caught the person inside\u2014a [Barber]\u2014staring at her through the window.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Haven\u2019t you ever seen\u2014never mind.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi stomped off. She\u2019d never have gone into the barber\u2019s shop. No matter how nice it looked, or how high-level the hairdresser was. What was the point for her?<\/p>\n

No, Revi\u2019s goal was the Cloth District. Many cities with a sizable Stitch-person population had them and Invrisil was large enough that a good number existed.<\/p>\n

The Cloth District. String People. Those who made themselves. Revi sighed as she smelled familiar scents. That of dyes, mordants\u2014and she saw people with stitches on their arms and legs and body.<\/p>\n

Sometimes disguised, like the flesh-colored stitches around Revi\u2019s nose, and each Stitch-person was different. Some were cut from large bits of carefully sewn cloth, such that an entire arm had no seams except for where it connected at the shoulder.<\/p>\n

Others, like Revi, had bodies such that every single part was detachable; she could even take off individual fingers. You needed to do that if you had a hand snagged by a monster and you wanted to detach it and replace it fast. But many preferred to have fewer stitches; it meant fewer to grow loose or fray over time. Plus\u2026knots.<\/p>\n

Also, the binding thread being obvious or camouflaged was its own thing.<\/em> Very\u2026charged as topics went. You got everyone from people who insisted on bright stitches to make sure people knew they were String People, to people who tried to blend in with Humans. Fleshies, they were called. Traitors to their cloth.<\/p>\n

Politics. But it came to the forefront whenever you walked in a Cloth District. Indeed\u2014Revi paused by the first shop she saw, and eyed it carefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Silken Touch. <\/em>Huh. How about\u2014Generic Store Name?\u201d<\/p>\n

She shook her head. But Revi was more concerned with the clientele and staff. And after a careful peer through the glass, she decided to risk it.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello! Welcome, Miss!\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the Stitch-girls welcomed Revi in. She was a beautiful, petite young woman with incredible <\/em>features. Just absolutely themed. Eyes, ears, nose, facial structure and her body all complementing the \u2018short and gorgeous\u2019 look, more of a friend\u2019s vibe than someone going for pure, beauteous impact.<\/p>\n

Revi didn\u2019t give the young woman a second glance when it came to beauty. For Stitch-people, it mattered, a lot, but\u2026their standards were incredibly high. They could be whomever they wanted, so what impressed the flesh-folk didn\u2019t impress Revi.<\/p>\n

But what did<\/em> matter was the young attendant\u2019s skin\u2014that was to say, her cloth<\/em>. It looked like skin. Normal skin. Very fine, soft, wonderful skin without cracking or roughness to add to her aesthetic.<\/p>\n

But skin. Not some impossibly radiant skin that shone with a hidden glow, or made her look even more inhumanly beautiful. That meant the young woman was of the Cotton-caste.<\/p>\n

Revi was Cotton. Her name was Revi Cotton\u2014well, if you were going by Chandrarian address. Which was like saying\u2026Halrac Human. But Cotton mattered.<\/p>\n

If you were Hemp, you were born lower than Cotton. And if you were of Silk, you were born with a diamond spoon in your mouth. Or rather, sewn into your body. And oh, the castes did not get along. Silk was on top, but they were resented. And Cottons fought among themselves\u2014Cotton was a general term for their quality of fabric\u2014and everyone hated Hemps.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi, I\u2019m looking for some care and touching up. I\u2019ve got an hour\u2014make it forty minutes? You have time?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Miss\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRevi. Adventurer. Gold-<\/em>rank.\u201d<\/p>\n

The word made the other attendants and clients look up. Revi pulled rank. And the woman in charge herself, a [Seamstress], hurried over.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Revi, we can absolutely fit you in. Would you prefer a private room?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm\u2026sure.\u201d<\/p>\n

The adventurer found herself being led by the woman and two attendants into a lovely room. There was a soft, leather sofa-table to lie on, and Revi did just that.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy name is Dewlana. I\u2019m the [Seamstress] in charge of The Silken Touch\u2014apologies about the name, but it does pull in clients.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi smirked. She eyed Dewlana carefully. Because this<\/em> was a woman made of silk.<\/p>\n

Silk. When you made a Stitch-person\u2019s body out of it, they looked\u2026well, unreal. The higher-quality a cloth, the more impressive the result. Dewlana\u2019s body was lithe, supple, and yes, silky<\/em>, but it seemed to pick up and reflect the light better. And Revi knew\u2014she\u2019d be stronger than regular cloth-folk, tougher, too.<\/p>\n

Normally, Revi would have avoided any Stitch-shop catering to her kind that had Silk-caste in it. Because they would make her experience\u2026a pain. But Dewlana was the only Silk-bodied person in the shop; all her workers were Cotton. Besides\u2026Revi had a thought as she glanced at Dewlana\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat can we do for you, Miss Revi?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Seamstress]\u2019 tone was very hospitable. And why not? Caste aside, Gold-rank adventurers could toss around money like water. Revi smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d like my stitches redone. All of them. Make it good thread. Actually, make it silk.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The attendants shivered at the word. Silk.<\/em> Every Stitch-person longed to make a body of silk, or even some more costly fabric. Revi\u2019s body was cotton, but silk threads were an upgrade she could pay for.<\/p>\n

She\u2019d gotten the money from Liscor\u2019s dungeon, after all. Dewlana smiled wide.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course<\/em>. Can we upgrade any part of you? Replace any limbs?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMm\u2026no, I just want everything tightened. I don\u2019t want to replace some legs and get mismatched.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNaturally. And can we offer you a massage? It\u2019s a specialty; my own design.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA massage? Why not?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi didn\u2019t have sore muscles. Stitch-person, again. But as she lay on her back, the attendants began undoing her threads. And\u2014piece by piece\u2014they took Revi apart.<\/p>\n

It was an unnerving experience for most to see. But Revi was made, like everyone else. When the attendants took off Revi\u2019s leg, the flesh turned into cloth at once. A life-sized cloth replica, amazingly detailed\u2014the more detailed it was, the better it functioned\u2014but cloth nonetheless. They hurried it off and came back with delicate spools of silk thread. In the meantime, Dewlana attended to Revi personally.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy, your back stitches are somewhat haphazard, Miss Revi. And you\u2019ve burst a few stitches.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHazard of the trade. Also, I had to re-stitch myself to play this game. Baseball.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve never heard of it. But there\u2019s all sorts of new things coming to Invrisil. Have you heard of the plays?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm\u2026? Oh, yes. Are they here, then?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Seamstress] looked a bit disappointed as she began to sew Revi back up. The process felt good, reconnecting. Revi felt firm; her limbs fully-bound. The two gossiped as Dewlana worked.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve been here before, then, Miss Revi?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot in a bit. But they have them in the south. Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is a long<\/em> way. I saw them just in the scrying orb a while back. Wait\u2014you wouldn\u2019t happen to have been around when\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi smirked.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean, the moths? I was there for that. Goblin Lord? I was on the walls.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Some of the attendants came back in. Revi enjoyed herself as they begged to hear from her. There was no concept of signing autographs, but Stitch-people had something just as good. Revi\u2019s old threads were taken and made a part of the bodies of the other Stitch-people. They\u2019d show it off and say\u2014that was from Revi, Gold-rank adventurer.<\/p>\n

After a while, Dewlana shooed the attendants away; this was<\/em> about Revi, after all. As she sewed, she talked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Miss Revi, you\u2019ve been at the center of more things of interest than I! And here most of my clients are talking about the King of Destruction\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, Chandrar. How many are from home?\u201d<\/p>\n

Home was Chandrar, where String People had been created. Dewlana shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cA fair amount. But I get a number of non-Cloth folk.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? For what?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

This was a Stitch-shop, for repairing and maintaining and yes, upgrading bodies. Dewlana\u2019s eyes twinkled.<\/p>\n

\u201cActual massages. We repair your clothes at the same time. We are better at it than most.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi laughed. That was Stitch-people for you. She felt Dewlana moving around her, spooling more silk out to do the more obvious stitches around her waist, shoulders, etc.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo concealing threads?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat am I? A fleshie?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi regretted the comment; Dewlana\u2019s threads were nearly invisible. The [Seamstress] passed it off, though.<\/p>\n

\u201cKeep it noticeable. I understand.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. Sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dewlana got back to work. Revi paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026home, huh? Are you from\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNerrhavia. Yourself?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDoran.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, wasn\u2019t that\u2014?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYep.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy condolences.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEh, you know how it goes. It\u2019ll be back or it won\u2019t. But I don\u2019t miss it too much. Frankly\u2014the only thing I think about sometimes are\u2026Alterkinds.\u201d<\/p>\n

The fingers paused in tying a knot.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t see many, indeed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. Well, I was in Liscor and I can\u2019t say they\u2019d take kindly to seeing a\u2026Cloth-Drake walking about. But I miss the creativity. No judgment.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was important. Revi opened the metaphorical door and Dewlana walked through. Dewlana casually kicked the actual door to the private room shut to prevent anyone overhearing their conversation.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. You know, I knew someone. A friend. He experimented with\u2014wings.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? Did they\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. You know how it is. The flesh moves, but he was too heavy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou ever experiment?\u201d<\/p>\n

Another pause. Revi felt herself being unlaced at the waist. She was at her most vulnerable in this moment. Anyone could attack her when she was helpless. And yes, it was a concern. But not in this shop, in Invrisil. Any Stitch-person who preyed on another in this scenario?<\/p>\n

They\u2019d be burned, piece by piece.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Well, you know.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMhm. What did you try? I did\u2014scales. You know, decoration. And a bit of protection.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? What kind of cloth\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have to have really hard fabrics. But they have it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh. Well\u2014I\u2014this is embarrassing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSpill it. We\u2019re both Cotton.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi twisted her head. And she caught Dewlana mid-nod. The [Seamstress] froze. And then she exhaled. She paused, stepped back, and gave Revi a rueful look.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat gave me away?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAside from the fact that you employ Cotton-castes? And you\u2019re sewing me up without so much as a sniff? I\u2019m from home.<\/em> I can see a cloth-craft.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Summoner] nodded at Dewlana\u2019s face. The [Seamstress]\u2019 face looked<\/em> like the rest of her body. Until you gazed closer and could see the micro-stitching holding the silk onto the original cotton. Dewlana sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have no idea how hard it is to reduce your face\u2019s cloth enough to layer silk over it. How obvious am I? No one\u2019s ever commented\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease. I told you, I hung out with Alterkind. They know all the tricks. Did it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHurt? I can\u2019t remove my head. So it was flesh.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi paused. That meant Dewlana had peeled<\/em> her skin\u2026she looked at Dewlana a second time.<\/p>\n

\u201cWas it worth it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTo run a shop as a [Seamstress] and not be stared down by other Silks? Absolutely.\u201d<\/p>\n

The woman\u2019s eyes flashed. Revi nodded slowly. [Seamstress] was a prestigious class in Stitch-people society.<\/p>\n

\u201cLips sealed. Don\u2019t sew \u2018em up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dewlana relaxed. They were, after all, Cottons, and you had to stick together, even if one was passing for Silk. She spoke after a few minutes of quiet rethreading.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Ears.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI had\u2026er\u2026you know Beastkin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYup. What about them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026altered my ears. Well, I added ears from other species. Bunny, dog\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCat?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOnce or twice. It was a look. But I grew tired of it. You hear way too much. And frankly\u2014you can make them look awful<\/em> if you mess them up. And you know, Alterkind\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi laughed and nodded. There were people who didn\u2019t look like \u2018normal\u2019 Stitch-people. Like Humans. Some looked like Drakes, or other species until you stared<\/em> really close. And some were more\u2026experimental still. Sometimes it could be awful.<\/p>\n

But mostly it was just a phase for young String People. In some Stitch-nations it was considered profane, disgusting. But most were tolerant of low-level alterations.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, now that you\u2019ve thoroughly uncovered my secrets, do you want that massage?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI mean, sure. I don\u2019t have any pain, though. I could always re-stuff myself. What\u2026ow! Hey!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi felt a sharp ache appear in her shoulders. She looked over.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cInducing muscular pain, Miss Revi. It will only be for a moment. And then\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. Wow.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The adventurer sighed as Dewlana began kneading her back hard<\/em>. She\u2019d induced the pain such that she was now hitting it perfectly. Revi sighed as she felt herself relaxing. And it was better than not having the massage at all.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s so brilliant.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is a hit. The only problem I have are with Humans\u2014mostly Humans\u2014who come in and expect something more than a massage.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi rolled her eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you look<\/em> amazing. I love your stitches. Is the dark skin\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t change skin colors.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi nodded. They both had darker skin tones than Izrilians. Dewlana sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is a problem. Human women always ask me what ointments<\/em> I\u2019m using.\u201d<\/p>\n

Both Revi and Dewlana laughed at the thought. Then Dewlana sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I can\u2019t but sit at a Human bar without men falling over themselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAppearances. They can\u2019t change. I feel it. At least my two teammates don\u2019t have that problem, much. But I\u2019m not exactly changing my appearance for flirting, you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

If appearance mattered for Humans and other species\u2026it didn\u2019t as much for Stitch-people. They were the most looks-focused species in the world, and yet, they understood change was only a stitch away.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe you should sew on some regular cotton. Pretend you\u2019re ordinary, find a good fellow, and then show him what you\u2019re made of. Put on the cat ears when you do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Dewlana nearly laughed her own stitches off. By the time the forty minutes were done, Revi felt refreshed, restrung, and good.<\/em> The silk threads were not<\/em> cheap, but she felt like they were adding to her structure. And if she could someday pay for a silk body?<\/p>\n

\u2026Well, she was attached to her cotton. And that was a struggle many had. Before Revi left, she leaned forwards and whispered to Dewlana.<\/p>\n

\u201cSilk body, cotton heart. Keep it together.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou too, sister.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two parted, smiling. Revi stretched in the sunlight. She smiled. Then her smile slipped.<\/p>\n

\u201cAw. Moths.<\/em> Now we have to meet the old crew.\u201d<\/p>\n

She sighed. If meeting Briganda was as bad as Elm, she\u2019d splurge on a nice, new\u2026arm? Silk? Ooh, it might not match, but imagine how that would feel?<\/em> Revi converted herself as she went to settle old debts.<\/p>\n

After all\u2014it was Typhenous\u2019 and her fault that Griffon Hunt had split up. Mostly Typhenous\u2019 fault.<\/p>\n

But hers too.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The door to the Adventurer\u2019s Guild swung open and Halrac stepped into the room followed by Revi and Typhenous.<\/p>\n

The adventurers in the vast, rather plush<\/em> Guild that was one of, if not the largest in the continent looked up. Some stood at queues at desks tended to by receptionists, others were clustered around the bulletin boards listing bounties.<\/p>\n

Normally, an Adventurer\u2019s Guild was smallish, and had a regular cast of teams. Not so in Invrisil. This was one of the<\/em> spots to be. You could find Gold-rank teams here at any hour. And the guild was open at all times. Even Named Adventurers might walk through these doors. The Guildmaster himself had been part of a Named-rank team.<\/p>\n

Not a Named individual himself; there was an important distinction. Teams could be as powerful or more powerful than a Named-rank person, but the individual members might not be as formidable.<\/p>\n

Even so\u2014this was the spot. And Griffon Hunt, seasoned veterans that they were, knew the score.<\/p>\n

They casually walked forwards, past Bronze-ranks who were covered in muck after slaying rats in the sewers, or had been gathering [Alchemist] ingredients. Typical errand-work to make ends meet. Past chatting Silver-ranks who looked up, appraising for competition, and then looked down.<\/p>\n

The Gold-ranks had their own section of the guild. You had to walk through a door. It was just a door; no magic runes, no guards. But if you didn\u2019t fit\u2026you\u2019d be seen.<\/p>\n

The second door opened at a touch. Halrac walked through and glanced about.<\/p>\n

Slowly. Carefully. There were far fewer adventurers in here. Six teams and a number of individuals. When they looked up, it was as equals, assessing, weighing the new competition that had just come in.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd here\u2019s the rat race, all over again. I miss Liscor. There we were big names. Until Pallass swanned in.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi grumbled. She was relaxed, standing with her team. But Typhenous, nodding as he bent to murmur to her, Halrac, cool and cold\u2014they were all aware of themselves. They moved deliberately, calmly.<\/p>\n

Because they were being watched. Because this was competition<\/em> and how you presented yourself was important. Especially among Gold-ranks. How you were perceived, favors\u2014it all mattered.<\/p>\n

Not all Gold-ranks were equal, of course. Griffon Hunt moved with a confidence that made some of the other Gold-ranks decide not to try hazing them. Indeed, some Gold-ranks were low-level, at least, comparatively. Some were veterans.<\/p>\n

Some were near Named-rank and only one thing, or recognition, held them back. But that was gold for you.<\/p>\n

Sometimes it was mundane, and duller than you imagined. Other times it was Truegold, with a luster and magic beyond regular minerals.<\/p>\n

Other times it was\u2026pyrite.<\/p>\n

\u201cGriffon Hunt. I knew I placed you, but without those damn dogs, I never woulda guessed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone murmured their name. A few of the Gold-rank adventurers snapped their fingers in recognition. Halrac turned and saw a familiar face.<\/p>\n

\u201cTodi.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Captain<\/em> Todi to you, Everam. I heard about Ulrien. Sorry about that. Was it true a Named-rank got him?\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt saw a man in a silk doublet, armed with a club and a wand. Captain Todi was an odd fellow; he dressed much like the Silk-caste of the Stitch-folk made their bodies. Expensively, and to impress. But he had a wider face, and a nose that had been broken more than once.<\/p>\n

\u201cTodi?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi murmured to Typhenous. He sub-vocalized a response into her ears with a flick of his fingers.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know him by name. Todi, leader of Todi\u2019s Elites. Yes, I know. But his team specializes in magical attacks and rapid movement. [Fireball] and Teleport.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. That<\/em> sort.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi rolled her eyes. She wasn\u2019t a schooled [Mage]\u2014she\u2019d learned summoning through her family\u2014and neither was Typhenous. But they both knew the sort of Gold-rank that Todi was.<\/p>\n

One that relied on artifacts. His team of six all had magical gear. Maybe lesser teleport scrolls, or, if they were [Mages], they knew the spell. Maybe an artifact that did the same thing. And their wands? Wands of [Fireball] would mean they could shoot six<\/em> all at once.<\/p>\n

Any Silver-rank team would have trouble matching that kind of firepower. But was it\u2026well, high-Gold?<\/p>\n

No. Still, they deserved the rank if they\u2019d gone through enough battles, and Todi looked like he\u2019d been through a war. Halrac introduced him.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is Revi and Typhenous. You two\u2014Todi. I knew him in Silver-ranks. He pulled himself out of Bronze all the way to the top.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd don\u2019t you forget it, Everam. So this is your crew? Damn. And Ulrien bit it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac\u2026paused. Revi had an urge to nudge him before he belted Todi in the face, because\u2014he looked like he was going to. But to her relief, the [Scout] only nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot a Named-rank. A criminal. Regrika Blackpaw. Gnoll.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn. A criminal? Well, Ulrien always had balls to even try taking one of them on, sideways or not. So you were at Liscor, huh? You should\u2019ve stayed is what I hear. I\u2019m planning on going south myself. Can I get you a drink?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac considered. He glanced over the wait staff.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can sit. I don\u2019t see the person we\u2019re waiting for yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded and Griffon Hunt sat down. Todi waved his team off; they nodded at him. Then he called out.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey! Jewel! Get over here and meet Halrac!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Another Gold-rank adventurer looked up. She glared, but stood up and broke away from the team she\u2019d been talking with. Jewel, as it turned out, was a Balerosian. Her team came with her. All two of them.<\/p>\n

\u201cEveram, meet Jewel. She\u2019s part of\u2026fuck\u2026what was it? Glistening Spear?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGlitterblade, Todi. Don\u2019t play games. Well met. Everam?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac. Griffon Hunt.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jewel was no [Mage], and her entire team were, in fact, [Fighters]. Well, variants on the class, but mobile, comparatively lightly-armored warriors. One was a [Duelist], the other a [Spellblade]\u2014a variant on [Spellsword] that had Skills which enhanced the artifact he carried, a flyssa, and Jewel herself was a [Swashbuckler].<\/p>\n

\u201cNimble as a cat. She made a name for herself fighting the damn Ogres<\/em> who came out of the hills a while back. Her team\u2019s new to Gold-rank. Four months. Be respectful to Halrac! He\u2019s been in Griffon Hunt at Gold-rank for over two years<\/em>, Jewel. Longer than me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPleased.\u201d<\/p>\n

The woman looked resigned at Todi casually ordering about, although her comrades were less than cool with it. But he had seniority, which mattered\u2026up to a point.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, they used to be a squad of six. And then eight. Rolled about the north hunting Griffins. And they had dogs.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGriffon dogs?\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the Glitterblades looked delighted at the play-on-words. Halrac nodded. He was sitting with Todi and the Glitterblades as Revi broke into the conversation.<\/p>\n

\u201cNice team you have, Todi. They don\u2019t want to join us?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCaptain Todi. And they\u2019re not my crew<\/em>. Not like Everam and Ulrien. They roll with me, I give them gear, and if we split, we split. No hard feelings.\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi\u2019s method was another sort you found sometimes. His team wasn\u2019t a group that stuck with each other through thick-and-thin, just adventurers, almost like mercenaries, fighting together for a brief window. It was closer to how Griffon Hunt operated, but even more casually.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were a fan of that. You own all the wands and artifacts? It\u2019s been a long time since we saw each other.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac spoke in a noncommittal tone of voice. Todi snorted.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, a year? Yeah. But like I kept telling you\u2014artifacts. Bug out if it gets hot. None of your \u2018kill em even if you die\u2019 crap. That\u2019s how your team got blacklisted in the north.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ears perked up. Jewel hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s this now?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, well, Griffon Hunt used to be the<\/em> Griffin-slaying team. But during that migration of the things a few years back? Things got out of control and there was a plague\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean\u2014the<\/em> Griffin-plague a year and a half back?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac\u2019s eyes narrowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can catch them up later, Todi. Why are you here? I thought you operated around First Landing because the contracts were bigger.\u201d<\/p>\n

The other man\u2019s eyebrows rose as he swallowed his drink.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean you don\u2019t<\/em> know? Have you been on the road the last few days?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s road, Toady. What\u2019s the news?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi smiled as Todi glared at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s got a mouth on her, this one. You really<\/em>\u2014hey! Where\u2019s the Wyvern bounty?\u201d<\/p>\n

A few Gold-ranks pointed. Todi adjusted a ring on his finger, flicked his wrist. A bounty flew across the room and he caught the paper.<\/p>\n

\u201cFeast your eyes\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He showed Griffon Hunt the bounty. The team read in silence. Revi choked on her drink.<\/p>\n

\u201cTwo thousand gold pieces per Wyvern head!? Eighty thousand for\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis can\u2019t be real. It\u2019s a prank.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac tossed the paper down. Todi waved a finger.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot so fast. Do you think I\u2019d be here if it was fake? They confirmed it. It\u2019s real.<\/em> Someone sent the gold to First Landing\u2019s Adventurer\u2019s Guild. Remotely. Via spell transfer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cImpossible. There\u2019s no way that\u2019s cost-efficient. Someone must be making some move politically. One of the Walled Cities? But why?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous\u2019 eyes narrowed as he tried to consider it. Halrac just stared. Revi gulped. They\u2019d gotten a huge<\/em> haul from their treasure in Liscor\u2019s dungeon, even split three ways. But 80,000 gold pieces put all that to shame. That\u2014you could think about being a Named-rank adventurer if you had that much gold to outfit yourself with. Or buy one serious artifact.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the regular Wyverns are made of gold. Tell you the truth, I thought it was all shit. Like the \u2018Golden Goblin\u2019 rumors, you know? But since it\u2019s real\u2014I\u2019m cashing in. I bet you wish you\u2019d stayed at Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the High Passes. Not exactly safe.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac muttered. Todi just laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard that! But as far as I\u2019m concerned, it\u2019s a race to the High Passes and my team moves out tonight! <\/em>You want to join in, we can team up. But otherwise, we\u2019ll be taking Wyvern kills. Sorry about Ulrien, again.\u201d<\/p>\n

He slapped the table and stood. Halrac murmured a goodbye.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat guy was made of a donkey and a mule\u2019s ass.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi glared at his back. Jewel snorted.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry. Is he like that\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

She glanced at Halrac. The [Scout] focused on her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot all teams. Todi\u2019s just the loudest. Ignore him\u2014except when he\u2019s working. He earned Gold-rank.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s your thought on the Wyverns? As anti-air specialists.\u201d<\/p>\n

Another Gold-rank adventurer chimed in, a solo [Mage]. He wanted to chat now the loud adventurer was gone. Halrac pursed his lips and Typhenous and Revi paused. He was the expert; some might be reluctant to give their opinions, but it depended on the adventurer.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d weigh it against your team. We\u2019re understaffed to hunt Griffins or Wyverns.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEven as a group of three?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jewel was dismayed. Halrac looked at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey need at least four, preferably five. Monsters that large can kill even someone with artifacts if you don\u2019t anticipate the attacks. A Wyvern drops on their prey. And they weigh\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The other Gold-ranks murmured.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t you just shoot them in the eyes? I saw that Antinium-thing doing it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. And if you miss, you\u2019re flatbread. With jam.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi snorted. The Gold-ranks quieted. Halrac nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe real trick is that the High Passes have other threats. Eater Goats. Gargoyles. Worse monsters. You\u2019ll be under attack while you\u2019re staring up at the skies. And Eater Goats can sneak up on even Named Ranks at night and eat you as you sleep.\u201d<\/p>\n

The other adventurers sighed, or shook their heads. A few more were chatting as Halrac gave them tips. Jewel was nodding to him, looking grateful.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll invest in protective gear, or spells if we hunt them. More than we do normally, I mean. We were<\/em> worried it was some kind of trick\u2014maybe the Drakes want us to die in the High Passes, but if the gold\u2019s there\u2026thank you for the advice. We don\u2019t get it from most of the teams we meet.\u201d<\/p>\n

She shot a glare at Todi\u2019s back as another solo Gold-rank adventurer nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s nothing. We\u2019re all just sharing tips, and making our gold one monster at a time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi was feeling generous. It was Typhenous who stroked his beard and nodded around.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe may work together in the future. It\u2019s good to meet young people in the Gold-ranks.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was exactly it. You built connections in case you needed a hand. And in fact\u2014Halrac cleared his throat.<\/p>\n

\u201cActually, we\u2019re looking for new Gold-ranks. My team\u2019s meeting an old comrade, but do you know anyone who\u2019s looking for a team?\u201d<\/p>\n

The other adventurers glanced at each other. Now, here was a common and uncommon offer. Join a new team. It was tricky, fitting adventurers together who \u2018worked\u2019. Many preferred to work alone or changed teams often for that reason.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019re you looking for? I\u2019m a [Hammerer]. And don\u2019t let the class fool you; I\u2019ve consolidated twice. Can I ask about shares and so on? Also, what\u2019s your focus?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re equal share.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi eyed the bald man who spoke up first. Halrac paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t have a set target in mind, but we do specialize in Griffins.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gold-rank made a face.<\/p>\n

\u201cEh. I haven\u2019t fought \u2018em, but I\u2019d be willing to learn. But\u2014I\u2019m looking for a group to fight Wyverns, not much else. There\u2019s pure gold there. If you\u2019re heading south, give me a shout. Otherwise\u2026some other time?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course.\u201d<\/p>\n

A few more adventurers came over to test the waters. Revi had only a good feeling about one of them, a young woman who was just new to Gold-rank with a smile. She was a throwing expert.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe was nice. Good, long-range\u2014if we get Briganda with us, we could get her and another shield-person.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac shrugged, reserving judgment as always. It was Typhenous who leaned over. And the old [Mage]\u2019s face was serious.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

His teammates looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac frowned. Typhenous eyed the young woman\u2019s back.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s\u2026a [Murderer]. Not just an adventurer. That young lady? She\u2019s killed more people than I have.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi and Halrac looked at Typhenous. The old [Mage] did have his wide and often eclectic sources of information, but Revi had to call him out on this one.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow do you know that, Typh? And don\u2019t tell me it\u2019s a Skill or something.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHardly. I\u2019m no [Arbiter] or\u2026I was inquiring after the state of affairs in Invrisil. Obviously I asked about people of interest. That young lady is known.<\/em> She has a history\u2014she\u2019s gone clean now, but she had to pay off a substantial bounty. And that was the one she was convicted of.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cDefinitely not, then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHumans. You think you know someone\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi shuddered as she stared after the young woman. She turned back to Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnything else you want to share before I shake another monster\u2019s hand?\u201d<\/p>\n

The old man smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cTwo things. Firstly, we may not see them here, but there\u2019s a Named Adventurer in the city.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cElia Arcsinger herself. The Goblin King Slayer.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac and Revi both blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean, the\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe was the one who helped rout the Goblins in the Dwarfhalls Rest mountain, wasn\u2019t she?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cExactly. Her contract expired, but she hasn\u2019t left for the north. Apparently, she and her team have been living it up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan we meet her? I mean\u2014wait, is her team Named?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust her. And I\u2019m sorry to say that she\u2019s reclusive. I doubt she\u2019d be drinking with Todi.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-girl nodded, disappointed but understanding. Named-rank adventurers and teams were another level, even with Gold-ranks. Halrac eyed Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the last bit of news? The thing you went out to find? Out with it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous spread his arms, smiling.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt appears the Players of Celum have arrived at Invrisil. They\u2019re putting on plays in a theatre<\/em>\u2014and they are the most coveted and famous thing in Invrisil right now.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two adventurers stared. And then Revi sat back and laughed. Heads turned as Revi exclaimed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo way. <\/em>That\u2019s incredible! And are they\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJasi and Wesle, the two star [Actors] on stage. I did check. It\u2019s impossible to get a ticket to their shows without waiting for weeks<\/em>, and apparently, some of the nobility have invited them to do personal performances. The Players of Celum\u2026declined, and so the nobility are coming here.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage]\u2019s eyes glittered with amusement and delight. Revi was beaming. Even Halrac had a faint smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to meet them! I remember<\/em> Wesle and Jasi! I think! One of them\u2019s a Drake, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous was nodding.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can look into it afterwards. It may be hard to even see<\/em> them, much less get face-to-face. Apparently, they\u2019re so popular they generate crowds. There was this other acting troupe, but apparently they\u2019ve been disbanded because they were so\u2026inferior. A few have joined the Players, and they\u2019re currently performing almost constantly. They have over a hundred\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac\u2019s head turned. The [Scout] held out a hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait on that, Typhenous. She\u2019s here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt stopped. Revi looked over and she saw a woman, Human, scarred from a life of battle, in her late thirties, making her way over to them.<\/p>\n

A [Shield Maiden]. She wasn\u2019t as burly as Ulrien had been, but she did have muscle. And she had a stocky build, and Revi knew she could block a charging bull\u2014or Griffin. Once. But even without her Skills, Briganda was tough<\/em>. She\u2019d split more monster\u2019s heads with the enchanted hatchet she carried than Revi could count. Even before Revi had been an official member of Griffon Hunt, they\u2019d shared a number of adventures together, on team-ups and then on an ad hoc basis before becoming an official member. That same hand that had saved Revi\u2019s life half a dozen times was now leading a little toddler\u2026past the tables\u2026<\/p>\n

The team stared. Briganda halted and watched them. She looked\u2014shocked. Revi felt almost as shocked, seeing her.<\/p>\n

That bad night, when Griffon Hunt had disbanded, they\u2019d all parted ways. Now, it was painful to see the old teammates again, especially because she and Typhenous were outsiders. But\u2014<\/p>\n

There was also the kid. Briganda smiled after a second. She had violet in her hair. Violet, mixed with brown\u2014a hereditary trait from some magic in her ancestry.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere you go. Up!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She lifted the little boy up. Revi saw a young, young<\/em> boy, flesh and blood and big eyes. He had a head of dark violet hair, deeper than Briganda\u2019s, fair skin\u2014he looked like his mother. He stared at her, wide-eyed. He couldn\u2019t have been more than\u2026four?<\/p>\n

\u201cMom. She has threads in her face.\u201d<\/p>\n

He instantly pointed at Revi\u2019s face. The Stitch-girl blinked. Briganda sighed, affectionately, as she pulled out a chair.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t point, love. It\u2019s rude. Halrac. Revi, Typhenous. It\u2019s been one hell of a year since we saw each other. Or\u2026two? Closer to two, now.\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded at them. Briganda was at once familiar\u2014and different. The same woman who would unapologetically kick her teammates out of the way to use the bathroom\u2014and a mother. But\u2026Revi had known this.<\/p>\n

\u201cBriganda. And\u2014it\u2019s Cabe, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCade.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, I knew that. Wow. He got big.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cade had been just a tiny boy when she\u2019d seen him last. And he was still a boy. But now he talked.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m Cade. Are you Mom\u2019s friends? Why do you have that in your neck?\u201d<\/p>\n

He stared at them. Revi felt for the threads in her neck.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy don\u2019t you?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy contemplated Revi with a slightly open mouth, trying to figure out what to say. Briganda sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cCade, I\u2019m going to have a long talk with my team, okay? Can you sit and have fun?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I have\u2014can I\u2014can I get\u2014the\u2014the\u2014box?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy instantly grew excited. Briganda nodded. Smiling, she handed him a little\u2026box. Revi saw it had hinges and it was clearly magical. Cade reached for it, and slowly, opened the lid.<\/p>\n

A Dragon flew out. Cade and<\/em> Revi\u2019s eyes went round as the tiny Dragon flew around him. He instantly reached for it, missed\u2014but the illusion perched on his hand. He petted at it, and Revi saw the Dragon\u2019s head move<\/em>. It had substance!<\/p>\n

\u201cRemember, no breaking the things that come out or you have to wait a long time for them to come back.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda cautioned Cade. He nodded slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, a trick box. Or are they real? A Box of Simulacra. I saw a few on the market\u2014but for practicing a war simulation, not entertainment. I can recharge the magic if it runs out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous chuckled as he watched Cade stroking the Dragon\u2019s head. Briganda sighed as Cade sat, oblivious to the world, playing with his magical toy.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t tell him that, or he\u2019ll lose what caution he has. It cost me an arm and a leg to buy, but it was worth it. Nothing else keeps his attention when I\u2019m working.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBriganda. It\u2019s good to see you. And Cade. I\u2019d\u2026forgotten.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac\u2019s voice was strained. Revi had forgotten too, although she hadn\u2019t said it. Cade was Briganda\u2019s child. She\u2019d had him in the course of being an adventurer. Somehow, she hadn\u2019t noticed until she was close to delivering him and then the [Healer] had advised her that it might complicate matters if she didn\u2019t have him.<\/p>\n

She\u2019d decided to have Cade. And while travelling alongside Griffon Hunt, she\u2019d kept Cade in the care of actual [Carers], [Nursemaids], and so on. Revi remembered seeing a young boy, but this one was different.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019ve been Cade\u2019s full-time mother. Mostly. He\u2019s big enough to come along\u2026sometimes. But it\u2019s a hell of a thing. I almost miss the days he was just a baby.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda smiled tiredly. She nodded at Cade.<\/p>\n

\u201cI still can\u2019t believe you never noticed you were pregnant.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI told you, I thought I was getting fat. And being a [Fighter] means I don\u2019t have as many symptoms. Well, I never puked in the mornings. Best part of my class.\u201d<\/p>\n

The woman shrugged. Revi wanted to roll her eyes, but\u2014Briganda all over again. She\u2019d walk into a trap Cassielle had set five minutes ago if you let her.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Thanks for meeting us. We weren\u2019t sure you\u2019d agree.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac seemed to decide he was going to stay on track. He nodded at Briganda. She smiled, but\u2026reserved. She looked Halrac up and down, and then nodded at Revi and Typhenous. She was the original part of Griffon Hunt, though. And so she spoke mainly to him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI owed it to you to speak, even if it was just about Ulrien. Named-rank, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac\u2019s brow darkened. Briganda reached out and grasped his shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cRegrika Blackpaw. I remembered, but she\u2019s a Gnoll. Still\u2014it shouldn\u2019t have happened. To tell you the truth, I felt guilty about it. So did the others, I think. They\u2019re still mad, Elm especially, but Cassielle\u2019ll want to talk. But he\u2019s in Terandria.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] nodded silently. He paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou keep in touch?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSome. Cassielle drops in and out; he\u2019s always on long missions, like the old days, and you know how it is at a distance. But Elm messaged me last week.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi and Typhenous winced. Briganda studied Halrac. The man paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cI regret that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t blame you. Sounds like Elm said\u2014what Elm said. I can imagine. But he told me something of what happened and what you offered so\u2026here I am. What do you want to say?\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda leaned back, waving for a drink. Cade looked up.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I have a fruit?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan you get one of those fruit drinks for my boy?\u201d<\/p>\n

The server nodded. Briganda sipped from her cup as Halrac paused. When the [Scout] spoke, his voice was calm, flat.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know we parted on bad terms. I\u2019m not here to make excuses. Or argue about the past. Ulrien\u2014let\u2019s talk about him later. Right now, as Captain of Griffon Hunt, I\u2019m here to tell you that we want to make things right. We can\u2019t undo the past, but we\u2019re offering recompense. After that? We\u2019re fully quits. No grudges held, no old debts.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s the recompense? Elm said he turned his down.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac looked at Revi and Typhenous. She felt her stomach twisting\u2014it was almost all<\/em> of what they\u2019d gotten from the dungeon! But it had to be done.<\/p>\n

\u201cElm can claim his share if he asks. We\u2019re putting it to use if he doesn\u2019t claim it by the time we reach out to Cassielle\u2014but its 6,000 gold pieces. To each of you. If you don\u2019t want\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll take it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda sipped from her mug. Halrac paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust like that?\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked at him. The [Shield Maiden] nodded to her child.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac, I have Cade, I\u2019m not working as an adventurer these days\u2014and I have no idea who the father is. Nor am I exactly shopping around. Of course I\u2019ll take it. But that\u2019s not all Elm said, was it?\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked at Revi. The Stitch-girl shook her head. So far this was going far<\/em> better than with Elm. The [Ranger] had tossed his drink in Halrac\u2019s face before they even listed the amount. Revi nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re asking if you want to rejoin Griffon Hunt, Briggy.\u201d<\/p>\n

The old nickname made Briganda smile at Revi and Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe old gang, getting back together? You\u2019re not calling it quits, then, Halrac?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re recruiting. We don\u2019t stop. Not unless everyone leaves. You and Cassielle are first on our lists. If you say yes\u2014we don\u2019t pay you all six thousand gold. You\u2019re part of the team. You get something\u2014but we keep going. As we have. I\u2019ll lead.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda had to take that all in. Cade was giggling as a bunch of [Knights] trotted out of the box and faced off against the Dragon. They were bravely waving their swords as the Dragon assailed them from above with fiery breath. Then he smacked the Dragon as it picked up a tiny, flailing [Knight].<\/p>\n

\u201cBe careful, Cade. Remember, if you break them, even to help out, it\u2019s gone for at least eight hours! That\u2019s until nap time!\u201d<\/p>\n

The woman waved at Cade. Halrac hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cI understand you\u2019ve moved on, Briganda. We can just\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

She held up a hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold on, Everam. I didn\u2019t say no. Tell me about rejoining. What do I get and give?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac paused. Typhenous steepled his fingers as he slyly pointed a finger. Cade giggled as the Dragon flapped away, blown by a stiff little gust of wind. The boy reached out\u2014Briganda steadied him before he could go over the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cI believe our Captain will pay you two thousand gold pieces for personal funds, Briganda. Four thousand of the six goes back into our pool, to be used as needed.\u201d<\/p>\n

It would still go to equipment and whatnot, just not necessarily to her. Briganda nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds fair. Two thousand enlistment? Sweet pot you have there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRecompense.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac clarified. Briganda paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. I\u2019ll take the gold either way. But joining up? I\u2019d\u2026yeah. Let\u2019s do that too.\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded. Revi blinked. But Briganda had never, ever, taken more than a minute deciding anything. That was why she was so good in a fight; she didn\u2019t hesitate.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust like\u2014no. In that case, Briganda, we\u2019d be delighted to have you. But your son\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac caught himself, and then gestured at Cade as Briganda let him watch a marching band. Briganda paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cCade?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow will you manage him? He\u2019s older now. We might be gone from Invrisil\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. This time I\u2019m taking him on the road with me. I can find someone in most places we stop. And he\u2019s old enough to handle wagon rides. If I join up, he comes with. That\u2019s not an argument.\u201d<\/p>\n

The woman made a slashing motion with one hand. Halrac looked at his teammates.<\/p>\n

In times past, Briganda had left Cade at safer places, not moving him around except if Griffon Hunt changed their working base. Halrac frowned.<\/p>\n

\u201cSurely you can leave him somewhere safe. It\u2019s never entirely secure on the road, Briganda. We had [Raiders] just this morning. We might be able to leave him at an inn. And it\u2019s convenient\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. He goes where I go. He nearly forgot I was his mother, Halrac. I\u2019m not leaving him again.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda met Halrac\u2019s eyes. She glanced at Revi. The Stitch-woman felt a pang in her chest.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s it been, Briganda?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Shield Maiden] sighed. She rubbed at her hair, and she looked tired.<\/p>\n

\u201cHonestly? I\u2019m jumping at the opportunity. Quitting Griffon Hunt with my name\u2026? No, even if I\u2019d been regular, I forgot how dangerous it is to go solo. It\u2019s hard to find a team, and with Cade, I can\u2019t just walk at an Ogre and not care what happens next. I have to take safe work. Escorting caravans if they let Cade come with, guard duty\u2014I can get work because I\u2019m over Level 30, but I\u2019m always underpaid. You get me?\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked at the others. They nodded. It was indeed a sudden change, moving from Gold-rank to any other sort of work, which was always less well-paying. Briganda went on, her voice steady.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I can\u2019t afford the gear I need<\/em>. I found a hole in my chainmail last month and nearly burst into tears. Because I can\u2019t earn enough to maintain even my non-magical gear. So yeah\u2014sign me up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s dangerous. I won\u2019t take a child into the areas we go to.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda paused, clearly thinking fast.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s dangerous in the city, Everam. Listen\u2014Cade needs a mother. You think I don\u2019t know the dangers? I worry about him all the time and he\u2019s tried to climb off the balcony more\u2019n once. But I\u2019m not going to be the adventurer who runs off and he doesn\u2019t remember me. He goes where I go. That\u2019s the deal breaker.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac looked\u2014conflicted. He glanced at Revi and Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not what I expected, Briganda. I\u2019m going to have to talk it over with my team.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI get that. You want more time or\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGive us a few minutes and we\u2019ll decide if we do.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Shield Maiden] nodded. She stood up, and took a breath. She touched the buckler and hatchet she wore.<\/p>\n

\u201cSome of my armor\u2019s worn down, but my magical gear\u2019s all here. I had to pawn a ring, but that\u2019s all. And I\u2019ve leveled once. That\u2019s my best sell. I\u2019d like to rejoin, honestly. Cassielle might too, although he has good work. He\u2019ll take the money, at least. Thank you for that. Honestly. No hard feelings either way.\u201d<\/p>\n

She nodded at them and then urged Cade to a distant table. Halrac watched her go. And Revi?<\/p>\n

She was shaken. A bit. That had sounded a bit like desperation in Briganda\u2019s voice. Revi wanted to remind her she was getting six thousand gold either way. You could live on that! Not like Revi liked to, but still.<\/p>\n

\u201cThoughts?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac looked at his teammates. Typhenous was peering at Cade. He made a face as the boy peeked back and Cade laughed. The old man turned to Halrac, smiling, and then replied.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you want to decline, don\u2019t wait to do so.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cold.<\/em> Revi stared at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can\u2019t turn Briganda down! Didn\u2019t you hear\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe road\u2019s no place for a child.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac sounded uncertain. Typhenous shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s certainly dangerous. But it\u2019s your choice, Halrac. Briganda isn\u2019t irreplaceable, but she is a good woman. Still\u2014impartially, I can argue both against and for her. Cade will slow us down. And we might be unable to take some contracts. He might be put in danger inadvertently and put us all<\/em> at risk. That is motherhood, and Briganda is a mother.\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked at Halrac. Revi opened her mouth. But Briganda was a teammate!<\/p>\n

However\u2014there was no room for hesitation or distraction fighting monsters. She swallowed her words. Halrac closed his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cArguments for?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe knows our tactics. She\u2019s got a powerful one-off Skill, and she\u2019s got gear, she\u2019s giving us four thousand back\u2014if we assume we give money to Cassielle, but not to Elm, that\u2019s\u2026how much is it, Typhenous?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re estimating our money at around 35,000 when appraised. Hedault will give us a clearer number, but assuming that\u2019s true, we will have 27,000 gold pieces to work with if Briganda joins us. 23,000 if not.\u201d<\/p>\n

And that<\/em> was a large number. If they paid out to all three\u2026they\u2019d be spending nearly half of the dungeon haul. But this wasn\u2019t about just that. It was about\u2026Revi looked pleadingly at Halrac.<\/p>\n

The [Scout] inhaled. He closed his eyes. He scowled\u2014opened his gaze and looked at his teammates.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine. I\u2019ve made my choice. First off, I don\u2019t like being Captain. Ulrien was better at this than I was.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi half-smiled, but she waited, nervous. Typhenous steepled his fingers. Halrac went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cBriganda\u2019s everything you two said. I know her. The issue with her child is new. I don\u2019t like putting people at risk and sometimes we can\u2019t protect ourselves. So\u2014the answer is no.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-girl\u2019s face fell. She stared at Halrac as he motioned Briganda over. He delivered the news and she nodded, heavily.<\/p>\n

\u201cAny chance I can change your mind?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Sorry, Briganda, but your son\u2019s a risk.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI am?\u201d<\/p>\n

Cade looked at Halrac. The [Scout]\u2019s expression didn\u2019t change. He flicked his gaze to Briganda.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s my decision. Our team is probably going to hunt Wyverns. But the High Passes\u2014there\u2019s nowhere safe anywhere around the mountains. At all. You know that. And there aren\u2019t any big bounties I know of, anywhere else. We\u2019re going to try and increase our funds with that\u2014and we can gear up, maybe take temporary help. Once that\u2019s done, if you\u2019re still in the area\u2014we can talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda had been nodding. She stirred. Revi looked at Halrac.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait\u2014but you said\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can work with Briganda on a\u2026provisional basis. We\u2019ll look at what we\u2019re taking on. If we think we can get there, Briganda can join us. Otherwise\u2026no.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Shield Maiden]\u2019s face lit up. She reached out and punched Halrac on the shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou bastard! Whoops, don\u2019t repeat that, Cade. That\u2019s the Halrac I know. Stone-faced and soft as an unboiled egg on the inside. Wish you\u2019d been the father, or Ulrien. Pretty glad it wasn\u2019t Elm. Cassielle? Eh. I\u2019d live with the half-Elf.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac tried to play it off, but he smiled a bit as Briganda gripped his shoulder. It was Typhenous who had a thought.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac, perhaps Briganda can<\/em> sign with us immediately.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda and Halrac looked at him. The [Mage] rubbed at his chin.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs I recall, a certain friend may deliver a\u2026transportation method to Invrisil. Not to the High Passes\u2014and it would be a few day\u2019s ride. But Briganda might be satisfied leaving Cade in the area.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Transportation method?\u201d<\/p>\n

The woman narrowed her eyes. She still had an adventurer\u2019s instincts for the important. Halrac hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t think of that. It\u2019s not exactly safe<\/em> there\u2014that\u2019s where Ulrien\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe in the city? But we\u2019d still be using the passageway. Consider it. And if we are waiting for Hedault\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] paused. He looked at Briganda. He looked at Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s an excellent point. Briganda\u2014we can catch you up to speed. But if it was\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac, I can leave Cade somewhere for a week or two. As long as I\u2019m coming back to him after we get out of the swamp or something. He\u2019s not camping with us near a monster. I\u2019m in. All the way. What\u2019s this you\u2019re telling me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda\u2019s eyes were hopeful. Halrac hesitated. Then he reached out.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hate leading. I guess I have to rephrase my answer. Briganda\u2014would you rejoin Griffon Hunt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAbsolutely.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two clasped hands. Revi shot to her feet, eyes shining. She hugged Briganda and Typhenous rose as well. Cade looked confused.<\/p>\n

\u201cMom? Are you crying?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s good news, Cade. The best. I\u2019m joining up with my old team. My friends. Do you remember them?\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda reassured her worried son. Cade peered at Revi. At Typhenous, who smiled down at him, and Halrac, who tried his best not to be a grim-faced man who could make a child cry at a hundred paces. Cade paused.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026No.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

They had to have a drink, of course. To celebrate. But even here\u2014Briganda stopped after two cups. She was a mother now, and she had a lot to do. Quit her old job, tell some of her friends, assess her gear\u2026<\/p>\n

And her team had to catch her up on everything that had happened. Briganda swore a blue streak before Cade asked her what the words meant when she heard about everything.<\/p>\n

Ulrien, the haul from Liscor\u2019s dungeon, Erin Solstice and her inn, Halrac\u2019s bow\u2026and they hadn\u2019t even told her the big things.<\/p>\n

Like speculation about Dragons near Liscor. But they\u2019d already moved out of the Gold-rank area; adventurers had long ears.<\/p>\n

\u201cHonestly, I don\u2019t like<\/em> the idea of competing on hunting Wyverns. We\u2019ll be fighting too many dangerous monsters, even if there are hundreds of teams heading to the High Passes. And we\u2019ll foul each other up. And we might get kill-thieves. Actual [Thieves]\u2014even conflicts with other adventurers.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac was grousing, unable to admit that he was in a good mood. Briganda, clearly trying to get back into full adventurer-mode, was nodding.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hear you, Everam. I mean\u2014I\u2019m out of practice, so Revi, Typhenous?\u201d<\/p>\n

The two laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve been in the team longer than we have, Briggy! Speak your mind!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt does sound really like a trap. Who put that ridiculous bounty up? And why? I\u2019ve been speculating with some of the old guard. But it\u2019s a chance, and you know us\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] frowned.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just don\u2019t like being one of the many. Griffon Hunt took a risk on Liscor and it paid off because we were first. But if there was just one request we could take while everyone focused on the big, obvious score\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He trailed off. Briganda scratched her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve seen nothing with numbers like that, Halrac. You might as well go after one of the Goblin Chieftains in the north, and that\u2019s a lesser payout by far. There are a few Gold-rank offers, and I can remember one funny one\u2014but nothing that pays anything. Heh. They were offering \u2018deferred payment\u2019 in exchange for later rewards. Might as well say we\u2019re adventuring for exposure and fame.\u201d<\/p>\n

The other adventurers had to groan or chuckle at that. No indeed. Gold-ranks needed to be paid for their risks. Briganda slapped her thighs as Cade leaned against her, yawning.<\/p>\n

\u201cCade\u2019s sleepy. And I need to tell everyone about this. Can I call on you in a bit?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. We\u2019ll have to organize\u2026the situation with Cade. But as I said, we have a route straight back to Liscor. Hopefully we can intercept Erin, and get a few days\u2019 jump on everyone else.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac, you delight me. Subterfuge from you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous exclaimed, grinning behind his beard. Briganda had to pace back and forth as she held Cade, who was yawning.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am so excited for this. It\u2019s been too long! I\u2019ll meet you in\u2026an hour, okay? I can put Cade to bed, get a babysitter\u2014I\u2019ll still be hiring those! Maybe we can even get some with us?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt sure beats Erin and her inn. Dead gods, imagine if that skeleton was still about? Best nursemaid. Free.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi muttered. Halrac nearly snorted out his drink. He put down his mug, wiping his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll be good to see her. And if the Halfseekers do arrive\u2014we could even intercept them, get the door here faster. I don\u2019t know what\u2019s taken them so long. Either way, we might beat<\/em> all but the local teams to the High Passes. Again, I don\u2019t like risking us, especially because there\u2019s a Weyr up there. One wrong move and we\u2019re not fighting a few Wyverns, but a Greater Wyvern<\/em>, and a few hundred Wyverns.\u201d<\/p>\n

His team sobered. That was what Griffon Hunt was good at, weighing the odds. Revi nodded slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll look into it. But for now\u2014we can take some time off, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. We\u2019ll catch Briganda up on the\u2026situation and speculation later. Tonight, we celebrate.\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt tapped each other\u2019s mugs. Typhenous wiped his mouth and smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd to do that, I think we should have a night on the town. Perhaps with Cade, although I fear it might be too adult for him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi eyed her teammate.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Do you mean a brothel?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. The theatre<\/em>, Revi. The Players of Celum are apparently far better than when we knew them! And they have new plays!\u201d<\/p>\n

The other two adventurer\u2019s eyes lit up. Halrac paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought obtaining tickets was impossible?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor tonight? And cheaply? Certainly impossible, Halrac. For anyone but good friends of Jasi and Wesle. I assume they\u2019d remember us. And it might be worth a shot.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt would. How good are the plays?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac had something of an affection for some<\/em> of the theatre he\u2019d seen. And Revi wouldn\u2019t mind it either\u2014especially to treat Briganda to the plays. Typhenous smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood enough to have the entire city demanding more? To have people reselling tickets? Halrac, consider that the [Actors] may have leveled<\/em>. I think we should try and seek the Players of Celum out while we wait for Briganda to get back to us. Any opposed?\u201d<\/p>\n

There were none. And Griffon Hunt marched out of the pub where they\u2019d been drinking to find some\u2026well, free tickets.<\/p>\n

It turned out to be harder than they thought. For one thing\u2014while everyone knew where the Players of Celum were now located, the theatre, the <\/em>Season Theatre, which sounded rather close to \u2018Solstice\u2019, or an homage of sorts, was guarded from anyone without a ticket.<\/p>\n

And the [Actors] were secluded from their adoring public by guards on an inn which catered only to them. And not even a Gold-rank adventurer could get past the security.<\/p>\n

\u201cEveryone<\/em> knows Miss Jasi or Mister Wesle. If they knew you, they\u2019d say. And forget waiting about to \u2018pretend\u2019 to meet them. No exceptions!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut we\u2019re in their plays!<\/em> The Siege of Liscor? We\u2019re Griffon Hunt!\u201d<\/p>\n

The man talking to them rolled his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, yes. Well done. I\u2019ve heard most of the teams, and all the individuals. Good for memorizing the name\u2014Griffon Hunt\u2019s a four-person team, though.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. It\u2019s wasn\u2019t\u2014well, it was, but it wasn\u2019t and now it is\u2014but our teammate\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt stared as the bouncer slammed the door in their faces. And they\u2019d done better than most to get to the door. Typhenous stroked his beard.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, a challenge.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf we can\u2019t meet them, let\u2019s just send a [Message] and wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac suggested. Typhenous looked askance.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy dear Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t call me dear anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCaptain Everam<\/em>, how many [Messages] do you think they get each day? Especially from people claiming to know them? No, we\u2019ll get nowhere arguing. Or burning down the inn, Revi.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Summoner] looked offended. She stowed the wand.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was just going to use a voice-amplifying spell and shout.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSoundproofed walls, Revi. No, we must find a better way to get in touch with them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you have a plan?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous\u2019 eyes glittered.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs a matter of fact\u2014I know someone who would <\/em>recognize us. Someone I think we can find, if we know the right people. Follow me. And\u2014be prepared to spend a few gold pieces, Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

The old [Plague Mage] smiled knowingly. Halrac and Revi looked at each other. But Typhenous, for all his habits, didn\u2019t lie. <\/em>To them, at least.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, if it means entertainment\u2014lead on. I was going to spend some of my gold on some fabric treatment tonight, but we\u2019ll be here for a bit, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi nodded; this sounded like fun, rather than work. Halrac was nodding, but caught himself. As they began to walk he looked at Revi.<\/p>\n

\u201cLike what, fabric softener\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s like that oil you people rub into your skin, Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Skin cream? I don\u2019t use it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve noticed.\u201d<\/p>\n

The old man chuckled as Halrac sighed. Typhenous walked down the street, leaning on his staff. And he was<\/em> old. Old enough to have white hair.<\/p>\n

That meant he was a grandfather in Gold-rank teams. Few adventurers reached his age. And\u2014fewer teams would risk taking someone like him with them. Typhenous didn\u2019t look like he could outrun a charging Bicorn. And he probably couldn\u2019t. He slept like a log, had slower reactions than his younger counterparts\u2014<\/p>\n

But he had survived this long on more than just reflexes. And it was his utility that had brought him to Griffon Hunt\u2019s attention. It had been helpful in many ways.<\/p>\n

And also\u2014it had led to the Griffin plague. It had led to Erin\u2019s door getting stolen. And then retrieved, but Revi had been bothered by the revelation.<\/p>\n

Typhenous\u2026had a past. Like everyone, but few people slept with a poisoned dagger on them at all times. And Typhenous, old though he might be, was a surprisingly good infighter if you weren\u2019t watching out for him. And in times like this\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what are we doing, Typhenous?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac\u2019s voice was suspicious. He folded his arms as Typhenous led them down the street, away from the inn. The old [Mage] was looking about.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust making inquiries through certain\u2014channels, Halrac. Nothing untoward.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean\u2026your<\/em> contacts. I told you, Typhenous. No more of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac, it is entirely above board. Completely. You can watch the entire affair. This isn\u2019t criminal; it\u2019s just\u2014my world.\u201d<\/p>\n

The old man sounded a bit peeved at the allegation of pure criminality. The [Scout] glowered. He had a definite view about anything illegal. Revi was a bit nervous too.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour world, Typh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRevi, my dear. I have a history in any number of occupations.\u201d<\/p>\n

Which she\u2019d known. But Typhenous\u2019 smile looked more knowing than your average [Mage]\u2019s air of mystery.<\/em> Especially because Revi could pretend to be wise and powerful too for the plebeians. But here they were. Typhenous led them down the street to his world.<\/p>\n

The underworld of crime. <\/em>The shadowed side of cities and Izril, that you could use when the legal options were out. Revi felt herself growing tense, and regretted agreeing so cheerfully. She checked to make sure her summoning tools and wand were ready for quick use. Halrac was doing the same; his invisible bow was on his back. The adventurers waited as their teammate found his first lead.<\/p>\n

Typhenous found the first denizen of darkness, purveyor of misdeeds, by poking the first street urchin he came across with his staff. A passing boy with somewhat ill-kept clothes jerked as he looked up from a game of dice with his pals.<\/p>\n

\u201cWatch it, old bugger! What d\u2019you want?\u201d<\/p>\n

The kindly old man wearing [Mage]\u2019s robes smiled down at him as Halrac and Revi watched. The other members of the gang stood up\u2014they were young, ranging from eight to just their early teens; some were caught in a growth spurt.<\/p>\n

They looked\u2026er\u2026tough. Staring at the adventurers without fear. Revi covered a smile. And she saw Typhenous lean over.<\/p>\n

\u201cI beg your pardon, young man. I was just wondering if you could direct me to\u2026Grev.<\/em> I\u2019m told he\u2019s a face in these parts. You wouldn\u2019t happen to have an in by which my crew and I could do a greeting with? I\u2019d be willing to pay for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

The urchin blinked and his eyes narrowed. So did Halrac and Revi\u2014for a second there, in between his polite, mage-like speech, Typhenous had used what sounded like slang. The boy stared up at Typhenous and nodded, warily.<\/p>\n

\u201cGrev?<\/em> Yeah. He\u2019s a face-of-faces, y\u2019know? We\u2019ve talked.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was a mark of pride, clearly. The gang nodded. The boy went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can probably get you a greeting, yeah. But we\u2019d need to run it by our boss.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. Can we make the request there?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous nodded. The boy rubbed finger and thumb together.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow about a token for the boss?\u201d<\/p>\n

He blinked as the [Mage] flipped him a silver coin. Typhenous had already been expecting it. The boy fumbled catching the coin. He blinked at Typhenous and took a second measure. But then he shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. Come on. You running with this crew? Looks like flatfoots to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, the flattest and straightest of feet. But they\u2019re adventurers. As am I.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, Silver?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGold<\/em>, actually.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi smiled at the boy. He gave her a sideways look.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yeah? Good fer you. This way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Then he and his gang shot down the street, beckoning for the adults to follow. Revi faltered. Typhenous just smiled, stroking his beard.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou see? Nothing untoward.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re children, Typhenous.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cChildren know everything in a city. And that\u2019s a gang<\/em>, Revi. Young they might be, but we\u2019ve paid for an introduction to their leader. Follow me.\u201d<\/p>\n

The team hurried after the kids. Halrac was narrowing his eyes as they headed deeper into the city, away from the commercial districts. He kept glancing up and about and Revi knew the [Scout] was assessing everything. He halted as the gang waved them down a street.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re surrounded.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi blinked. Halrac nodded behind him.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone\u2019s on our rear.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMore children. The gang. Looks like three. It\u2019s a precaution, Halrac. Don\u2019t worry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous nodded behind him. He walked forwards confidently, into a small intersection in the alleyway. There was indeed a gang of boys and a few girls standing there. They were being led by a teenager\u2014he couldn\u2019t have been more than fifteen.<\/p>\n

But he had a knife. He was flipping it, in one of those classic games where the point was to be as dangerous as possible without embarrassing yourself. He was, in fact, sitting at a crude wooden table.<\/p>\n

Revi stared. Someone had hung cloth over a wood frame overhead and created a miniature fortress in this alley. And as she and Halrac walked forwards\u2014she heard a sound.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo these are the flatfoots who want to meet Grev?<\/em> Look like marks to me. All shine and no grit.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gang Boss] called out. Revi turned her head. Two other gangs of kids were blocking the alleyway. And \u2018kids\u2019 began to lose its meaning because some were in their teens. Which meant that while they weren\u2019t full adults\u2014there were a lot of them. And most had some kind of weapon.<\/p>\n

A cudgel, made of makeshift wood. A half-brick in a sock, a classic weapon. A knife. Weak weapons for a Gold-rank. But get stabbed by one of those, or hit, and it still\u2026hurt. Revi eyed the gang.<\/p>\n

\u201cTyph?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHello, young man. We are indeed seeking a meeting with Grev, of the Players of Celum. I was told you could introduce us?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous\u2019 voice was smooth, and he seemed blithely unaware of the people boxing them into the alleyway. And he was speaking\u2026eloquently again. Revi and Halrac eyed him.<\/p>\n

So did the urchin who\u2019d brought them here. Typhenous smiled, stroking his beard as the [Gang Boss] snorted.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019n half the city, old man. Grev don\u2019t have time for anyone who calls. But sure, we can probably arrange it. No promises you\u2019ll get a fancy ticket.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLeave that to us. We just desire a rendezvous.\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy cocked his head and then laughed. So did his gang, with the kind of fearlessness that told Revi that they<\/em> thought they had the upper hand. Her skin was crawling a bit. You heard stories about gangs. Still\u2014she didn\u2019t want them to try anything. She didn\u2019t want to fight kids. If she had to summon one of her phantoms, it would tear through a gang like this.<\/p>\n

On the other hand, Halrac looked more tense than Revi. He had uncrossed his arms and put his back against a wall. And he was glancing up; Revi saw a figure disappearing from the rooftops. She hesitated. Dropping stones on their heads? Now this was<\/em> a really good ambush\u2026<\/p>\n

But Typhenous was still smiling. The [Gang Leader] heaved himself upright. He flipped the dagger up in the air, twirling it as he came over. The adventurers watched.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to meet Grev? We\u2019re gonna have to talk coin. Gold,<\/em> right? I hear you\u2019re Gold-ranks.\u201d<\/p>\n

More laughter. The young man saw Revi eying the dagger. He grinned.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry, Miss. I don\u2019t mean no harm by this trick.\u201d<\/p>\n

He flipped the dagger. Revi reached out and grabbed the blade. She\u2026missed.<\/p>\n

Oh, she caught the dagger. But she grabbed it blade-first.<\/em> Everyone winced<\/em> as Revi\u2019s hand opened up and the Stitch-girl grimaced. Red blood ran from her hands from a very deep cut. The young man recoiled in shock.<\/p>\n

And Revi smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, this? We don\u2019t play these games where I come from. Not much risk.\u201d<\/p>\n

She tossed the dagger back. Then she opened her hand. It hurt like hell.<\/em> That was a stupid move. But she didn\u2019t let it show as she carefully pulled out a needle and stitched closed the flesh. It sealed, with magical speed.<\/p>\n

\u201cFucking Clothheads.\u201d<\/p>\n

A girl muttered from the back. The [Gang Leader] recovered his poise. He wiped the dagger on his shirt and twirled it back into a sheathe.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not too bright, Miss. If I had anything on the blade, you\u2019d be regretting it. But let\u2019s talk coin.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIndeed. What sort of remuneration did you have in mind?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous was smiling. Just\u2014smiling. The [Gang Leader] laughed. He performed the same gesture as the urchin had.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re talking gold<\/em> to meet Grev. Lotta people need speaking to\u2014we don\u2019t run with him regularly. You want access? It\u2019s gonna cost you. Twenty gold.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTwenty\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi inhaled. That was way too much! Typhenous stroked his beard.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a high price.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot high for a ticket<\/em>, which is what you want, right? You want a good one, tonight? They run you higher. And we\u2019re talking meeting with Grev<\/em>. And he runs with the Players of Celum. You play your cards right, he might introduce you to the cast.\u201d<\/p>\n

The young man\u2019s eyes gleamed as he gave Griffon Hunt the upsell. Revi recognized it; he was trying to milk them for coins. She raised her eyebrows. But Typhenous flicked his fingers. He was going to speak.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is very true, young man. Mm. But I wonder if we could renegotiate to a lower price? Twenty gold coins is an awful lot of money. And Gold-rank we might be, but we don\u2019t care to spend that much.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you can. That\u2019s my price, old [Mage].\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous sighed as the [Gang Leader] stepped closer. He looked vaguely around at the kids and teens, who were suddenly looking more\u2026intent. Halrac shifted.<\/p>\n

\u201cTyphenous\u2026<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The name made one of the urchins near the back start. But the old [Mage] waved at Halrac.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac, it\u2019s fine. I don\u2019t intend to spend more gold. As I told you. Perhaps we should find another gang, then.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t just talk to the boss and walk off, flatfoot.\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the other kids warned the adventurers from behind. Halrac shifted. He had a shortsword, enchanted, and his bow. But he clearly didn\u2019t want to use it.<\/p>\n

\u201cBoss, boss\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone was calling out from behind the [Gang Leader]. But he was glowering.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen up, old man. You clearly don\u2019t know how this works. You don\u2019t pay for a meeting and back out.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut the price is rather high. Can\u2019t we negotiate?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBoss\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The street urchin was fighting forwards. The [Gang Leader]\u2019s eyes narrowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t negotiate with outsiders who don\u2019t know the score, old timer. And we\u2019re not afraid of adventurers. Bring \u2018em. Named-rank, or whatever you have. This is our<\/em> territory. And you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He leaned forwards, hand on the dagger. Revi tensed\u2014and Typhenous moved. Quick as a snake, he grabbed the young man as he moved forwards.<\/p>\n

A loose tunic. Bad to have something you could snag in a fight. Of course, Typhenous was wearing robes, but they were enchanted. And as the young man\u2019s eyes widened, he tried to pull back\u2014<\/p>\n

And froze. The old, kindly [Mage] with a grandfatherly look, posh talk, and not a lot of sense was holding the tip of a dagger right next to the young man\u2019s ear. And he looked\u2026well, mostly as kindly and good-natured as he had before. But when he leaned down amid the frozen children in their gangs, his voice was somehow a bit less\u2026refined. And friendly. Well, he sounded<\/em> friendly, but you know how it was.<\/p>\n

\u201cYoung man. I\u2019m no flatfoot or outsider. I\u2019ve run with more gangs than you\u2019ve seen. If I come to this city, people know that I\u2019m neither flash <\/em>nor builder or viner or whatever low-scores you\u2019ve seen. I\u2019m all score\u2014when I care to be. And no one takes me for a loop.\u201d<\/p>\n

Silence. Halrac and Revi stared at Typhenous. The [Gang Leader]\u2019s face was pale as the dagger hovered right in his ear canal; he was trying not to breathe.<\/p>\n

\u201cShitrats, he\u2019s got the boss!\u201d<\/p>\n

A girl exclaimed. She had a sling, but she was staring at Typhenous. The rest of the gangs stared too.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019re you, old man?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gang Leader] whispered. He stared at Typhenous. And the old man answered.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you did your work, young man<\/em>, you\u2019d know the name and the face. I run with Gold-ranks now. Respectable. And this is a favor, all straight and above-board. But if you have to ask\u2014they call me Typhenous. The Plague Mage.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a murmur at this. The [Gang Leader] cast his eyes sideways\u2014the boy who\u2019d recognized Typhenous from his name was waving his hands. Wide-eyed. Revi looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s try this again. Apologies for the grab; I just feel it pays to make an impression.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous let go, sheathing the dagger. The young man stumbled backwards, feeling at his ear. He stared at Typhenous. He laughed, shakily.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead fucking gods, old man! You just had to say your name and we\u2019d\u2019ve changed our tune!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Plague Mage smiled. He went back to his lugubrious, innocent manner of speech.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, but if you were trying to\u2026trick us, that would have been pertinent information. A gang without manners can\u2019t be trusted, whoever they deal with.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd if we\u2019d been false?\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the younger members queried. She looked worried; Revi noticed all the weapons were disappearing, rather quickly. And the kids were backing up from Typhenous.<\/p>\n

The Plague Mage. His eyes twinkled. And then stopped shining.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you know what happens next. I\u2019m willing to pay for a meeting, by all means. At a reasonable<\/em> rate. But convey to anyone you meet, please, that I\u2019m serious. I\u2019d hate to pay for topsoil.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gang Leader]\u2019s face paled. His gang members murmured and drew back further. Revi heard Typhenous\u2019 title repeated.<\/p>\n

The Plague Mage. <\/em>She hadn\u2019t given it much thought. Adventurers got nicknames\u2014the Named Ranks all got them. But there was clearly some significance in this world to a name too. And Typhenous had one.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014We\u2019ll put out some fingers. We have met Grev. We\u2019re not sewn together, but we can get you to him.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gang Leader] replied after a long break. Typhenous smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood. Tell him we\u2019re friends. Griffon Hunt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight, right. Be one sec. I\u2019ll get my best [Finders] on it. And get you an escort\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The young man backed up fast. He began ordering his gang around and Typhenous turned to his team. He smiled as they gave him a look akin to the other ones he was getting from everyone else.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs I said. Nothing to worry about. It\u2019s all about how you present yourself.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac glowered. But he kept his mouth shut until the gang dispersed. The same urchin they\u2019d first met pointed. And his tone was far more respectful as twelve of his fellow members moved out ahead of him, down the alleyway.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe gotta make some other meetings, Mister Typhenous. Make some palms shine. This way.\u201d<\/p>\n

He led the team out of the gang\u2019s hideout. When they were out on the street, the gang began pointing them further into the city. Typhenous nodded for them to lead the way. Only then did Halrac confront him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAn introduction. I know, the theatrics. But despite what that young man said, he wouldn\u2019t have taken us seriously unless I demonstrated I knew what was happening. We won\u2019t be paying a ludicrous amount. We will have to give some money, but I think it won\u2019t be much of anything.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous nodded to Halrac. The [Scout] opened and closed his mouth. He clenched one fist.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou scared that boy. To save us gold?\u201d<\/p>\n

Rather than apologize, the old [Mage]\u2019s eyes glinted.<\/p>\n

\u201cI did what that young man was familiar with, Halrac. He respects a display, nothing else. The gang understands and we have their respect as well. It\u2019s their world and mine. I was one of them, once. I know how it works. I understand your objections, but trust me, Halrac. This is how it is done. It would rather be like me telling you how to hunt.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac chewed that over and nodded, slowly. He wasn\u2019t entirely an idiot.<\/p>\n

Neither was Revi. But she gave Typhenous another sideways look.<\/p>\n

\u201cI heard you had connections when you got signed to Griffon Hunt. How much of that was your level, and how much was the other stuff?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIronically, neither Ulrien nor anyone else even cared, apart from my spellcasting ability. I\u2019ve tried to help in small ways to make up for my\u2014errors. To greater or lesser effects.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous nodded apologetically at Halrac. The [Scout] grunted.<\/p>\n

\u201cI disapprove of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know. And I am sorry, but the door incident was going<\/em> to happen with or without my interference. I mitigated the damage; they were two very<\/em> good gangs who could have had the door to Invrisil within three days without being caught. And we came up a few thousand gold pieces higher for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the consequences you mentioned?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Plague Mage paused. A kid was waving at them and another gang of kids\u2014these ones marked by black sashes tied around their arms\u2014was waiting, staring at the Gold-ranks.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll deal with them as they come up. But we have the door to Liscor. On the whole, I\u2019d say it was worth it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHmf.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was all the [Scout] said. But he let Typhenous do the rest. And what Revi saw after that, as she met other gangs who seemed to progressively get older was\u2026<\/p>\n

A celebrity. Typhenous was conveyed by the same group of kids from the first gang. But they went from place to place in the city, speaking to people who knew where Grev might be, or who had an \u2018in\u2019. And the older they got, the more they started as they heard Typhenous\u2019 name.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Plague Mage. <\/em>My da says he knew you when he was running tricks!\u201d<\/p>\n

An awed gang boss actually shook Typhenous\u2019 hand; he led a group of [Toughs] and [Thugs]. Typhenous smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cThose days are past me. I\u2019m merely an adventurer now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, that\u2019s what my da says. He\u2019s a huge admirer. He says if one\u2019ve the Knives<\/em> can run straight, and a Scorer like you gets to be Gold-rank, anyone can. You want to meet Grev? We\u2019ll do it\u2014and give you the proper discount. Favor,<\/em> Mister Typhenous. Who\u2019re your people? Your new crew?\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked at Halrac and Revi. They blinked as the rest of the gang had to meet Typhenous. They barely looked twice at the other Gold-ranks. Typhenous was smiling, downplaying the accolades. And that was only one gang.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou were in a gang?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMost people who grow up without a proper job or class do. It was nothing special.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. And the Knives? What\u2019s a scorer?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous\u2019 eyes twinkled. He winked at Revi.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust terms from the past. Oh\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He paused as the young [Tough]\u2019s father himself rushed out to exclaim and shake Typhenous\u2019 hand. Revi looked at the old man. And she realized.<\/p>\n

He was a hero. To the people he met. Someone with a history that anyone in the know knew.<\/em> Or if not a hero\u2014the Stitch-woman leaned over to Halrac.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know anything about this, Halrac?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s Typhenous, then?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA face. Whatever that means.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi looked at Typhenous. And she saw an old mage, a man with white hair, an adventurer. Walking amid the streets and gangs and the hidden side of a city. He fit\u2014and yet, he had left it all behind a long while ago. He had become a Gold-rank. And Revi began to appreciate what that meant<\/em>. For someone like Typhenous, to the people who knew where he came from. And he was using his past for his team.<\/p>\n

Gangs or adventuring teams\u2014loyalty mattered to both. And it made sense. Griffon Hunt was more mercenary than the other teams like the Silver Swords or the Horns or Halfseekers. But they looked after their own. They had splintered, rather than give up on Typhenous after the mistake. And he remembered that.<\/p>\n

Revi wondered if he still felt guilty. She still remembered the plague, when she slept, sometimes.<\/p>\n

Everyone had things they regretted.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

In the end, Griffon Hunt did end up paying gold to meet Grev. But only four gold pieces, spread out in smaller bribes. Making palms shine. It took them nearly thirty minutes of walking from spot to spot, getting closer and closer to access to Grev himself. And when they found him, it was almost at random.<\/p>\n

\u201cGrev? What d\u2019you want? He\u2019s not entertaining any flatfoots\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The suspicious boy broke off as the guide whispered urgently in his ear. He paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot even fer a face\u2014<\/em>alright, alright! I\u2019ll tell him. But he might rat off. He don\u2019t like being bothered.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cKindly inform him that Griffon Hunt would like to speak with him, if he has time. Halrac, Revi, Typhenous. From the inn. Those exact words.\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy\u2019s mouth moved as he glanced at the adventurers. He nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlright. No promises.\u201d<\/p>\n

He sidled back through the door he\u2019d been guarding. Revi got the impression it was something like a bar\u2014or another hideout. Only, not one you could get into regularly. And the gang that Grev was hanging out with was a lot better-dressed than the gang Typhenous had asked to help.<\/p>\n

Indeed, the Plague Mage handed a few silvers over and made the urchin\u2019s face light up. They disappeared as the adventurers found themselves alone in front of the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cI swear, Typh. If this is all a waste of time\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey wouldn\u2019t lead us around like that, Revi. There are consequences.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage] was relaxed. He took a little sip from a healing potion and then a stamina potion. Halrac and Revi weren\u2019t bothered, but Typhenous smiled after he did that.<\/p>\n

\u201cAching joints?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAge, Revi. I should buy a liniment while I\u2019m here. But I find most potions do their job. A shame their effect loses its power the more times you use them. But\u2014ah!\u201d<\/p>\n

The door opened. Revi saw a kid, only around thirteen years old, standing in the doorway. He had yet to hit his growth, and he had been scrawny, underfed. But he\u2019d filled out since then, and he was wearing good clothes. Still\u2014he had some of the street on him, and his hair was messy, most likely on purpose.<\/p>\n

He had a gap in his teeth if he smiled. The gang behind him looked warily at the adventurers.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know these flatfoots, Grev? They say they know you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy stopped gaping. He grinned. The [Street Rat], Grev Redigal, younger brother of Jasi from Celum, who had once tried to lead Erin Solstice into a mugging, laughed in delight.<\/p>\n

\u201cKnow \u2018em? They\u2019re part of the crew!<\/em> Miss Erin\u2019s crew! They\u2019re all right! Dead gods, the Players\u2019re gonna flip when they see you! That\u2019s Halrac, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGrev.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] nodded. Grev cackled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d know that scowl everywhere! Guys, I\u2019m gonna rat. These\u2019re friends. They need me for anything, they get it. Just like the rest of the ones I told you about.\u201d<\/p>\n

The gang of kids relaxed. The leader, a girl, tapped Grev\u2019s shoulder lightly with a fist. He was clearly with them and yet apart, much like Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou got it, Grev. Favor. Thanks for the tickets. My mum flipped twice when she got them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnytime. Come on, you three! How\u2019d you find me? They were saying a face<\/em> was askin\u2019 about me and I got worried. That you, Typhenous? You never said!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA [Mage] must have his secrets, Grev. It\u2019s good to see you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRevi too?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHey. Grev.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi waved awkwardly. She hadn\u2019t really known<\/em> Grev from the inn. She remembered him, of course, the kid who\u2019d been with the Players. But Revi had to admit, her contact with the Players of Celum was mostly remote.<\/p>\n

And yet\u2014it was like adventuring teams. They knew<\/em> each other. And ironically, this far from the inn they\u2019d been at, the bond felt stronger. Short it might have been, only a few months\u2014but it felt like years. And The Wandering Inn had left a mark on them all.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s amazing to see<\/em> you all. Is the door to Liscor open? I\u2019ve been watching, but there\u2019s been no word.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe came on foot. We were hoping the door would be active too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grev led them back on the street. He tugged up a hood over his head as he chatted with the adventurers.<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause of the Wyverns? Right. I\u2019ve been keeping my ear to Liscor. Heard about the Crelers.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCrelers?\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt started. Grev gave them a wide-eyed look.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know? <\/em>Dead fucking gods kicking rats! You\u2019ve gotta hear about it! But maybe let\u2019s find the Players first! They\u2019ll love<\/em> to see you. Mind you, it was good you came to me. Smart. Favor for that\u2014respect, I mean\u2014no one can get near the inn with the cast. They\u2019re more famous than\u2026anyone right now. Lots of people want to be their friends.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo we noticed. It\u2019s incredible.\u201d<\/p>\n

Indeed\u2014there were posters<\/em> of the Players of Celum on the more populated, commercial districts. Revi had to stare at a full-scale poster, hand-painted by an [Artist]. It depicted Jasi\u2014or rather, a beautiful Drake standing with [Soldiers] in the background, and the heads of Wesle and a Human that Revi didn\u2019t recognize in the background. It looked like some grand story, and the caption just read\u2014\u2018Elisial, now showing at the Season Theatre\u2019<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Fame.<\/em> Grev himself was hiding his face. Whereas he was walking with Gold-ranks and chattering away.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have no idea. The cast have to wear illusion spells just to go out. They\u2019re signing\u2014you know the autographs? I\u2019m getting more than I can deal with, so I hafta wear a hood. And Jasi\u2014you can\u2019t beat the guys off her with sticks! Myself, I\u2019ve got a few girls\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi rolled her eyes. Halrac just stared at another poster, this time of Wesle and advertising Macbeth<\/em>.<\/p>\n

\u201cHave you heard from Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNah. I mean, I keep up, and we get [Messages] from Temile. New plays, some stuff. She\u2019s out of Celum. They kicked her out and the Players went with her. Dumb as a bag of rocks, that lot. The Players are now in Liscor. And they\u2019ve got Drakes and Gnoll [Actors]. Maybe even Dullahans and Garudas if that door to Pallass works with the magic grass. Dead gods, that\u2019d be something! Emme wants to bring the crew from Liscor over when the door opens. We\u2019d be able to have flying Garuda, Dullahans with detachable body parts for the fight scenes and such\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa, hold on. Magic grass? Erin\u2019s out of Celum? What?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi was trying to catch up. Grev cackled at the look on her face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t know! This is great!<\/em> You don\u2019t know about the Horns\u2014dead gods! Did you at least hear about the Wyverns in Pallass?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac nodded. Grev was leading them back to the Players of Celum\u2019s inn.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. We didn\u2019t have a scrying orb, but we heard about it. Wait\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Veteran Scout]\u2019s brows crossed together. And he had a\u2026thought. Born purely out of his knowledge of Erin. He looked at Revi. The [Summoner]\u2019s jaw dropped and Typhenous blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe was there! Miss Erin!<\/em> And one of the Antinium was in<\/em> Pallass! You\u2019re gonna flip! Come on, I have to show you! The Players should be in the inn!\u201d<\/p>\n

The young boy was overjoyed. And Revi felt her smile growing larger. Erin had been at Pallass? During the Wyvern\u2026? No way. <\/em>Was she a magnet for trouble or something?<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s got magical fire too. Temile said it was glorious. And a garden-thing! That\u2019s how she\u2019s charged up her door\u2014apparently it can take a lot more people to Pallass! We could travel back and forth fairly regularly!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHold on. We have a teammate we want to introduce to the Players. Can we find her first?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure! Who\u2019s she?\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda was scheduled to meet her team at the same pub. She was already waiting.<\/p>\n

\u201cI put Cade to bed. Who\u2019s this? Wait\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

She stared at Grev. None of her teammates had told her about knowing the Players of Celum. They hadn\u2019t put together the significance. But when Briganda heard that they knew <\/em>the famous [Actors] who\u2019d hit Invrisil like a Tier 8 spell, she flipped three times.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods! We\u2019re going to meet the Players of Celum? You\u2019re Grev!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Miss.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda looked awed. Revi felt discombobulated. They were all Gold-ranks, but when she heard she could meet Jasi and Wesle, Briganda was like a girl meeting\u2026Gold-ranks.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve got to buy some paper! For signing! And Cade! I want him to meet them! And you know<\/em> them, Halrac? You never said!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey were just\u2026at the inn.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac looked as close to stunned as he got by Briganda\u2019s reaction. Grev laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo problem, Miss. Griffon Hunt\u2019s a friend of the Players! So\u2019re any of the folks who went to The Wandering Inn. Come to that, we have a recruit who was at the inn. Fancy fellow, does our special effects.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go! Now!\u201d<\/p>\n

And they did. Griffon Hunt walked towards the Season Theatre and the inn where the Players were located. There was a crowd. But Grev walked right past them and strode up to the door. The [Bouncer] blinked when he saw Griffon Hunt again.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know this lot, Grev?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure do, Redit. They\u2019re Griffon Hunt.<\/em> The originals. Is Jasi in?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUpstairs. Getting ready for the show. Wait, they\u2019re really\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He stood aside as Grev walked through. Revi gave him a triumphant look as he stared, wide-eyed, at them.<\/p>\n

The inn wasn\u2019t The Wandering Inn. But it was run by a Level 30+ [Innkeeper] who knew his stuff<\/em>. It was three times as large as The Wandering Inn, and it was amazingly fine. And the Players of Celum were the only customers inside, save for the staff and a few very star-struck patrons who paid for the privilege.<\/p>\n

\u201cJasi! Wesle! Emme! Look who I found!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Grev hollered into the room. Revi, staring at the dozens and dozens of [Actors] and stagehands and people all talking or rehearsing, saw a group in the center look up. A Drake swept to her feet. She looked amazing, in makeup, and when she stood, the room stilled.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs I live and breathe! Griffon Hunt!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

A man stood as well. Wesle\u2019s voice filled the room as he pointed. And Griffon Hunt, the door still open, heard a roar of surprise from the crowd who\u2019d heard. They turned at the exclamation and then the cheering<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Suddenly, they were in the spotlight. On the stage. The Players of Celum all shot to their feet. The ones who were from the inn leapt out of their chairs, half with flamboyant acting, but also genuine pleasure. They strode over, and the Gold-rank adventurers found themselves shaking hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt has been months! Or so it feels! Hello! Revi, isn\u2019t it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake leaned over, shaking Revi\u2019s hand. She was taller than Revi, but she felt\u2026larger<\/em>. Not like Briganda, but with that air of importance. Revi found herself nodding at Jasi.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2014I\u2019m sorry, but we heard you were here, so\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course! You\u2019re from Erin\u2019s inn! And we\u2019re delighted! Was it hard getting in? Did you come via the door?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey came on foot! Found me, they did! And they didn\u2019t know.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The boy was practically dancing with glee. But Griffon Hunt was overawed by the change in the Players of Celum. They\u2019d rented an inn that the Gold-ranks would have stayed at, permanently. And they had a crowd begging<\/em> to see them. And yet\u2014the Players were delighted to meet Griffon Hunt. Friends from Liscor!<\/p>\n

\u201cYou haven\u2019t heard about the Crelers? Oh, Five Families! I was in shock when I heard. But the Horns are Gold-rank! They brought down an Adult Creler! And the inn was attacked by Crelers! Destroyed.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac sprayed his drink. Revi\u2019s jaw dropped. Briganda was staring at the others in shock.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait\u2014an Adult Creler?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhen was this? Are they alive? What about Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac demanded. Typhenous was blinking. Revi\u2019s heart twisted. An Adult\u2026? Those were team-killers! Even Gold-ranks wouldn\u2019t go up against one of them unprepared.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey survived! Some teams died, but the Horns all lived! Yvlon\u2019s arms changed\u2014Ceria\u2019s eyes too! Dead gods! It\u2019s the kind of tale that we have to perform! But how can you do it justice? Andel tried, but it was fight scenes, not the easiest to turn into a play.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wesle rested one foot on the chair, as people fussed over his wardrobe. He nodded to a [Writer] sitting in the corner, in his own booth, bestrewn with paper, snacks, and drinks.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to tell you everything. But later. We\u2019re performing tonight. You must come see us. We want to perform for Erin when she gets here. We\u2019re holding a booth just for her. You know? Phantom of the Opera <\/em>style?<\/em> We\u2019re putting that play on. I can\u2019t believe she forgot about it\u2014but it\u2019s wonderful. I need to practice my singing, but we have an actual [Singer] we\u2019ve added to our main roster.\u201d<\/p>\n

A half-Dwarven woman was nodding, ordering the [Actors] about. Emme spoke to the adventurers as she snapped at the underlings who were now her crew.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe perform each night. All day, every day, really. But we have multiple teams to take the load off. Still\u2014you came at a perfect time. We\u2019re doing Lady Macbeth<\/em>. Jasi\u2019s the lead, and our star team is taking the stage. Hey! Someone find the special tickets! For the Solstice Booth!\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a stir among the new [Actors] watching. Kilkran, the [Actor] with a voice like deep honey, laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll stir up the audience to see you there! Where\u2019re the tickets? Also, you must see\u2014it\u2019s Macbeth, but altered for a female lead. I wasn\u2019t sure about it, but it is immensely popular\u2014Lady Reinhart herself has expressed interest in seeing it!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve seen Macbeth<\/em>\u2014er, but it sounds great. Solstice Booth\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda was nodding rapidly at Revi. The Stitch-girl was overwhelmed. Jasi smiled as she reached for her [Performance Supplies].<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to go on stage in the next hour. But after that, you\u2019re invited to the after-party. It\u2019ll take a bit\u2014we do go out and shake hands and sign autographs, but\u2026truly, we\u2019d love to have you. Do you have any more friends? We can get more tickets\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I bring some of my friends? I saw one of your plays, Miss Jasi. I\u2019d love an autograph.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda was awestruck. Revi\u2019s jaw dropped as she held out a piece of cardboard for Jasi to sign. The Drake did so with a flourish. Jasi nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnyone, by all means. We have tickets reserved\u2014I know they\u2019re valuable, so Emme has to manage them, and the special seating. We\u2019re upgrading the theatre constantly to be bigger and bigger. Some of the nobles want their own sections, and of course everyone<\/em> wants a ticket. We were performing with Elia Arcsinger\u2019s team in the balconies just last week\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cElia\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-girl stared. Her eyes bulged. Her jaw\u2014well, it wasn\u2019t on the floor, but only because her stitching was good. Revi\u2019s mouth was open\u2014and it stayed open as she left the theatre and the crowds lined the streets, shouting at the Players of Celum.<\/p>\n

Revi sat, open-mouthed through being led into the Solstice Booth by the security<\/em> at the theater. As people stared up at her in the packed auditorium. As the Players performed on stage. Jasi strode onto the scene, as Lady Macbeth, and she blew Revi away. The Stitch-girl said nothing, just watched as the play opened, ran, and closed to a thunderous, standing ovation.<\/p>\n

It was nothing like the play she had seen in Erin\u2019s inn, in the background. The Players had special effects! Fight scenes with actual limb cuts, so real Revi felt alarmed. And\u2014they\u2019d improved their craft beyond all recognition.<\/p>\n

This was the stage. And it blew the Gold-rank team away. Revi found herself sitting in the inn, with the Players of Celum celebrating after their performance. Only then did her mouth close, and only to swallow the drinks and food.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was\u2014incredible.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve improved a bit.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wesle remarked modestly. But his eyes were twinkling. Revi stared at him. And she had a definite sense\u2014that they were close in levels. Which was unreal<\/em>, for someone who\u2019d gained the [Actor] class just a while ago.<\/p>\n

But the Players of Celum were the premier group in Invrisil. Halrac watched the [Actors], as Briganda alternated between star-struck and delighted. Cade was on her lap, gaping at the shining [Actors].<\/p>\n

Typhenous, ironically, was most relaxed. He was collecting signatures, talking with the group\u2014fully immersed in the scene. He was enjoying himself as the crew introduced themselves\u2014to legends in turn.<\/p>\n

After all, the Siege of Liscor was a play they put on and Griffon Hunt was a part of it. Revi nearly sprayed her drink all over Cade and Briganda when she saw a young Stitch-girl playing her!<\/em> Her skin was fair, but she was nearly the spitting image of Revi!<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd here\u2019s our Halrac! Do the face!\u201d<\/p>\n

A man roughly Halrac\u2019s size and vaguely like him put on a scowl that was the exact match of the [Scout]\u2019s. Halrac\u2019s eyes bulged and Briganda had to put Cade on the table before she fell out of her seat with laughter.<\/p>\n

It felt like a bit of a dream. Revi looked at the changed fortunes of the Players and was glad and amazed. But it was when they recounted what had happened to the inn that she had to stop in amazement.<\/p>\n

The Bloodfields. Creler attacks. Erin in Pallass during the Wyvern assault. The magic garden, her fire.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cWe missed so much. <\/em>The Horns are Gold-rank? Yvlon\u2019s arms are fixed?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey killed an Adult Creler?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac just stared as Jasi and Wesle beamed. Grev was laughing at their expressions.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe may see them. They\u2019re bound for Invrisil. Speaking of which\u2014the Wyvern bounty is insane<\/em>. Each one is being paid out at an Adult Creler\u2019s rate! Well, not if you add up local bounties on top of Rhir\u2019s payment. But who put it up?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia Reinhart could. But do you think she would\u2026? But we are looking forwards to the door, definitely. Actually, we\u2019re debating linking our theatres with Liscor. Maybe sending money to Temile to build one in Liscor? Or Pallass? But we\u2019ve invitations to go further north still. To First Landing. But we have no shortage of audiences here, so\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

As Jasi, Wesle, and some of the [Actors] were chatting about their ambitions to Halrac and Revi, Grev was introducing the cast to Briganda and Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve got boats of people, so only the best of \u2018em get to audition with us. We have multiple teams. Jasi and Wesle are in the first one, obviously. But the rest are being trained up. And we have special effects.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, like the mist for your [Witches]. Magnificent thunder effects.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous was nodding, delighted as he shook hands. Grev laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah! You shoulda seen what we had to do before that. But we\u2019ve got a top-level illusionist. Wait, he\u2019s a [Magician]. Eltistiman! Come and meet\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous was smiling and looking around when he heard the name. And the [Magician], who had a drink in one hand, was turning to meet the people the Players were excited about.<\/p>\n

The younger [Magician], his robes flamboyant and colorful, locked eyes with the older [Mage]. Eltistiman dropped his mug. Typhenous recoiled.<\/p>\n

One went for his wand, the other reached for his staff and dagger. Eltistiman pointed, faster on the draw.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Players turned. The [Magician]\u2019s wand was glowing, aimed at Typhenous\u2019 face. The old [Mage] froze, hand on his staff.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going on? Eltistiman?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jasi turned her head, alarmed.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, mothballs\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi choked on her food. She remembered the name, too late. The [Magician] that Typhenous had said\u2014the one who\u2019d been there to stop the door from being\u2014and Typhenous had\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cI know this [Mage]. Jasi, Wesle. We have a\u2014history.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eltistiman\u2019s wand never moved. Halrac was frozen\u2014a hand on his invisible bow. He could draw and loose in a second\u2014but Eltistiman had the wand aimed at Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cStop that! They\u2019re guests! I don\u2019t know what went down, but lower the wand!\u201d<\/p>\n

Emme barked. Eltistiman hesitated. He looked around at the Players of Celum, his friends, and slowly, he did lower the wand. Revi breathed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat happened? Eltistiman\u2019s been a part of our troupe for a while now. He helped us\u2014is there some past between you and him?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wesle looked at Typhenous, concerned. The older [Mage] was breathing slowly, watching Eltistiman warily.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2014have had our incidents. I\u2019m sorry. Perhaps we should discuss it? Civilly?\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked at Eltistiman, and the [Magician] nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cCivilly. We\u2019re both quits, anyways\u2014it was a scene, Wesle. No hard feelings\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He stared<\/em> at Typhenous. And Revi sensed that hidden undercurrent of the street. Typhenous nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

He stood up. The Players watched the two walk over to a table. The air blurred around them and sound vanished. Revi let herself breathe. She met Halrac\u2019s gaze. The [Scout] was frowning again.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you think\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. But I think we might be entangled again. Damn.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Veteran Scout] drained his drink. Cade nodded solemnly. Briganda sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s never a dull moment. Catch me up. What\u2019re we in for now?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u201cNever thought to see you here. Frankly, I\u2019d as soon have kicked you in the ribs, but I\u2019m with the Players of Celum now. So I suppose we can let it lie. You didn\u2019t let them slit my throat.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eltistiman eyed Typhenous as the two sat together. Both were\u2026calm. Wary, but not tense. They knew the score. They were both\u2014faces. And they spoke with the same understanding that the Players and Griffon Hunt did. That of people with a shared background.<\/p>\n

\u201cI did convince them to leave you. The Sisters weren\u2019t amenable to it, but the Brothers\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods, both of them? Maybe you saved me from a fight.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eltistiman grimaced. He took another drink and looked at Typhenous. The old [Mage] nodded carefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou escaped without incident?\u201d<\/p>\n

A shrug.<\/p>\n

\u201cI woke up in the basement and walked out, invisible, of course. The Flower Lady wasn\u2019t happy, but she understood. It was still a black mark\u2014but I found the Players of Celum. And the door never got stolen. So\u2014let\u2019s call it quits.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous relaxed a bit. Words had meaning and a promise, even one not bound by magic or blood, carried weight. He nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have my apologies.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFrankly, I should have checked the door. That was an amateur\u2019s mistake. But yes. Good job on your victory.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Magician] glowered. But he sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cStill\u2014two big gangs lost some members that night. I feel\u2026I don\u2019t want to ask, because I know you won\u2019t give it to me straight.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d prefer that.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous kept his face straight. And he was wary. Eltistiman nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want to know. But\u2026people have been asking questions, you understand? A [Nightstalker] and her guard visited me. And an [Enforcer]. They asked questions on behalf of their people.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Plague Mage\u2026paused. He slowly raised his mug.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI told them what I knew. But they\u2019re not happy. Maybe it was an accident. But I think you\u2019ve got some debts to pay. And if you stick around in Invrisil\u2014well, you\u2019re here, but people saw you in the Solstice Booth. And they heard Wesle saying Griffon Hunt. They know you\u2019re here. Neither one\u2019ll intrude because the Players are here and because this is Reinhart\u2019s territory, but\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous saw Eltistiman raise his brows. The [Mage] nodded slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have debts. And explanations. I will pay both.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d better hope they\u2019re accepted. Because the Sisters are irked<\/em>. The Brothers\u2014might get it. But watch your back. You\u2019re playing a game with more costs than rewards. And for a face as old as yours, it\u2019s odd to see.\u201d<\/p>\n

The old man hunched his shoulders at the booth. Typhenous looked up at Eltistiman. The Plague Mage smiled, wearily.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps. But some things are worth more gold than you can count. I\u2019m with my team, Eltistiman. And it is my team I owe. If I have debts, I will settle them and not involve them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs you like. Let\u2019s go tell the flatfoots we\u2019re square. But for Grev, they\u2019re good, upstanding folk.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous had to smile at that.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo are my people.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

That night, after Eltistiman and Typhenous rejoined the party, everyone was celebrating. Revi relaxed as Typhenous gave his team the all-clear. They\u2019d discuss it, but Eltistiman wasn\u2019t holding a grudge.<\/p>\n

For now, relax. Marvel, and enjoy meeting old friends. New strangers. The stars glowed in the sky and they glowed brighter in the inn, with the Players of Celum. And Griffon Hunt was rubbing shoulders with Invrisil\u2019s most famous.<\/p>\n

So famous, in fact, that even a Courier could barely get a spot at their inn. Lacel the Leaper, eating in a corner of the inn, nearly died when he saw Griffon Hunt eating in the center with the Players of Celum.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2014you were able to reserve a spot at the inn too?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Courier, star of the saga with Lady Whatsherface and Lord Whomever stuttered weakly at Griffon Hunt. Revi blew a mocking kiss at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s the run going?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to be travelling far tomorrow. It\u2019s a risky run, but you know how it is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The Courier watched as Jasi listened to the entire thing with Lady Hetessana and Lord Bein. And he had a definite\u2026sense of inferiority.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I\u2019ll retire early.\u201d<\/p>\n

He stood, and went up to his rooms\u2014not the biggest suite in the inn\u2014annoyed. Miffed. But the Courier did have a job to do, and so he went to his rooms.<\/p>\n

He felt unusually tired. He\u2019d had to deal with two [Thieves] trying to go for his bag of holding earlier today. It was an inconvenient request, for all Lady Hetessana was willing to pay. But he\u2019d get the damn pendant there, or he wasn\u2019t Lacel the Leaper\u2026<\/p>\n

The Courier practically fell into bed, clothes on. He was<\/em> tired. He rolled himself into his sheets as, below, the Players of Celum and Griffon Hunt celebrated and talked.<\/p>\n

The Courier was dozing, aware something was\u2026off\u2026when the door opened. He opened his eyes, wary, but exhausted.<\/em> And he saw a figure slip into the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. How did you\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Lacel the Leaper, Courier, tried to raise his head. But the sleeping draught was in full effect. He looked up\u2014<\/p>\n

And the [Bartender] smiled. Not Typhenous. Or Eltistiman. Just the [Bartender] no one gave a second glance to the inn. She reached up and carefully adjusted her mask. She took it off and the artifact which had allowed her to mimic the actual [Bartender]\u2019s face vanished.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Guild has a contract on your head, Lacel the Leaper. But don\u2019t worry.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Courier tried to reach for any of his items. He was supposed to be safe<\/em> here! But this wasn\u2019t a regular gang member or [Thief]. How\u2019d she infiltrate such an upstanding inn?<\/p>\n

Wait. The Guild?<\/em> The Courier looked up. And the [Assassin] bent.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry. It\u2019s not your life we want. It\u2019s a message. Magnolia Reinhart holds no sway over us any longer. So\u2014apologies. But consider this advertising.\u201d<\/p>\n

She carefully put a gag over the Courier\u2019s mouth. He tried to scream, but the [Assassin]\u2019s gag was enchanted. She reached into a bag of holding and pulled out\u2026<\/p>\n

A hammer. She adjusted Lacel on the bed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not just about the pendant. I\u2019m not taking it. When they find you\u2014you can tell them it was the Guild. In fact, we\u2019d prefer it. And the next day? You\u2019ll send Lord Bein the pendant of your own will. Your run ends here. But don\u2019t worry\u2014we\u2019ll make sure this isn\u2019t permanent. Sorry, again. This may hurt.\u201d<\/p>\n

He stared as she took aim at his legs. And raised the hammer and brought it down.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u201cPst. Eltistiman. Did you see that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous paused in his drink. He was unsteady on his feet, but he had seen the [Bartender] move. And old you might be, but stupid or unobservant people didn\u2019t get old.<\/p>\n

\u201cI saw it. You think it\u2019s a face?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t be. Grev tells me the Players are beloved in Invrisil by gangs. It would be unwise. An outsider, maybe.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShould we check?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMm. Let\u2019s. Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] looked up. Typhenous pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a situation.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man\u2019s good mood vanished again. Halrac growled.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf this is another<\/em> cause of\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be stupid. This is me seeing something. Get the team ready. Someone\u2019s going after Lacel the Leaper.\u201d<\/p>\n

The leader of Griffon Hunt stiffened. He grabbed Briganda and Revi. They followed Typhenous and Eltistiman up the stairs, silently.<\/p>\n

\u201cStay behind us. If it\u2019s one of the street, she\u2019ll be fast and good at close-quarters fighting. Maybe a poison expert. What do you think? Ward spells and immobilization?\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous cautioned the others, none of whom were good at extremely close-quarters fights. Eltistiman nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere are two of us\u2014plus your team. Let\u2019s go in first. Talk\u2014then cast. Ward spells on us.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for the confidence. Who is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know. Someone pursuing the bounty. Now\u2014[Muffle]. And\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Lacel\u2019s room wasn\u2019t hard to find. The two [Mages] moved in front, and approached the door. Halrac pointed at himself and Briganda, but Typhenous shook his head. He motioned to Eltistiman. The younger man nodded, pushed the door open.<\/p>\n

\u201cStop.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Assassin] was waiting for them. She aimed a crossbow at them as the two [Mages] aimed at her with staff and wand. She stood by the open window; they\u2019d caught her just as she was leaving.<\/p>\n

Lacel the Leaper lay in the bed. His eyes were bulging but he made no sound behind the cloth wrapped around his face. He was secured to the bed. And a blanket was covering his legs\u2026<\/p>\n

It was stained with red. Revi stared. She aimed her wand at the woman.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you!?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t move!\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac aimed his bow at her chest. The woman made a tsking sound. She had a mask on her face, concealing her identity.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know if you\u2019re a face, but this is the Player of Celum\u2019s inn. This was unwise. Drop it. And if you go through the window\u2014we\u2019ll catch you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eltistiman\u2019s eyes flashed. His wand was glowing, aimed at her. The woman paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m no face. And if I were you, I\u2019d pretend you didn\u2019t see me. Well done on spotting me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd we should just let you go?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHis legs!\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi stared at Lacel in horror. Briganda\u2019s hatchet was raised. She looked at Typhenous and Eltistiman. The woman sighed behind her mask.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you could stop me. But\u2014look. This is who I represent. We\u2019re not abiding by Reinhart\u2019s laws.\u201d<\/p>\n

She traced a sigil in the air. It glowed darkly, with black light. Revi didn\u2019t recognize it. But Typhenous and Eltistiman did. They inhaled sharply. And both instantly lowered their weapons.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Guild. Halrac, don\u2019t shoot her. You too, Revi.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous murmured. The female [Assassin] nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a public statement. No hard feelings. I love the plays. I\u2019d ask for an autograph, but something tells me I\u2019m not welcome. If that\u2019s all\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

She leapt out the window. Halrac swore, but Eltistiman and Typhenous blocked him. The [Scout] rushed to the window, but the woman was gone.<\/p>\n

\u201cTyphenous!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Legs are well and truly broken. This is definitely a message. He\u2019s even got his bag of holding, see? Still locked.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Plague Mage wearily walked over to inspect Lacel. The Courier was shaking in his bindings. Eltistiman rubbed at his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Dead gods, I\u2019ll have to tell Emme and the others. They\u2019re in danger. Not that many hate them, but if Reinhart really has lost control over the Guild\u2014I wouldn\u2019t want to be a Runner. She\u2019s kept them off the Runner\u2019s Guild, but this? A Courier?\u201d<\/p>\n

He gestured at Lacel. Halrac shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cTyphenous! <\/em>Who was that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was the Assassin\u2019s Guild, Halrac. They accepted the bounty on Lacel. No\u2014they did this just to prove they\u2019re willing to accept contracts on Runners, now. And that they\u2019ll operate in Invrisil. We just walked into a massive incident.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous sat in a chair. Halrac and Revi and Briganda stared at him. The [Shield Maiden] paled. She looked towards the door, where Cade was slumbering, having fallen asleep early in the night.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Assassin\u2019s\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t want to cross them. They have many<\/em> members. And\u2014well, they used to be under Magnolia Reinhart\u2019s control, or at least, she dictated who they didn\u2019t<\/em> go after. No longer. I heard rumors\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The two [Mages] were conferring. Revi just looked at Lacel the Leaper.<\/p>\n

A message.<\/em> She reached for his gag. The Courier inhaled as Revi removed the enchanted cloth. And then he began to scream.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

A real drama took place in the Player\u2019s inn that night. The infallibility of Couriers and Magnolia Reinhart\u2019s will were both questioned. The [Actors] and staff gathered to see Lacel being brought out of the inn to a [Healer], screaming. He still had the pendant. But his legs were broken and words raced through the city like fire. Dark, frightening flames, like whispers.<\/p>\n

The Guild of Assassins. <\/em>And Magnolia Reinhart\u2019s power was questioned yet again.<\/p>\n

That was not the only news that put a dampener on the night. Halrac sat in the inn, drinking with the worried people around him. Now, the [Actors] weren\u2019t stars, just ordinary people. And the one who thought about the [Assassin] was the Gold-rank adventurer. The one who could<\/em> fight.<\/p>\n

But even Gold-ranks didn\u2019t cross the Guild of Assassins. Halrac drank, and glowered. And he had worse news. His face went still as his team sat with him. Briganda was soothing Cade as she talked. He was upset by the screaming and by what he hadn\u2019t understood in the mood of the adults. He was falling asleep thanks to a sleeping tincture, very mild.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Halrac. I kept an ear out. I did\u2014but it was way back. I thought you might have heard\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t get\u2014word from there often. It\u2019s been a long time since I was there. When was it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDuring the Goblin Lord\u2019s attacks. It was raids from the mountain that did it. I\u2019m sorry. Windrest is gone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s where you grew up, wasn\u2019t it, Halrac?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi looked at the [Veteran Scout]. His face was still.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. It\u2019s a small village. If the Goblins were raiding\u2026they\u2019d have been unable to hire enough adventurers to fight them off.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was fast. I heard most escaped. But there was that, and the fires. They say Drakes started them. That\u2019s the rumor I heard. Even if you\u2019d been at Invrisil and heard about it, you probably wouldn\u2019t have reached them in time.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda looked at Halrac. His face never moved.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know that. The survivors. Where are they? Are there any\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

He stopped. Briganda nodded quickly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think a lot of them did live. Halrac, they\u2019re all at Riverfarm.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRiverfarm?\u201d<\/p>\n

The man stirred. He blinked at Briganda. She nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cApparently, they all joined the Unseen Empire. That\u2019s what they\u2019re calling it. Some powerful noble\u2014they say an actual [Emperor]\u2014is there.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAn [Emperor] in Izril? Get out of here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi snorted. But softly. Briganda shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s all I heard, Revi. Halrac, I think a lot of Windrest is there. Riverfarm was hit by the Goblins and the fires too, but\u2014they did better than any other area. There was a plague in the Radivaek lands. But\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not far to there. We could check on them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi suggested. Halrac paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll\u2014send a [Message] first. I know someone from the village. Master Helm\u2014the [Blacksmith] and [Village Head]. If he\u2019s alive\u2026but we have careers.\u201d<\/p>\n

This was an adventuring team. Everyone nodded, but\u2014family also came first. Home too. Revi didn\u2019t have any stakes in Izril, but if they\u2019d been in Chandrar? Well, she wouldn\u2019t have asked her team to fight in a war.<\/p>\n

Even so.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, there was that interesting job request from Riverfarm. I can find it. I thought it was funny\u2014it was that one that didn\u2019t offer anything but pittance and deferred payment. Hold on.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda put Cade in Revi\u2019s arms. The Stitch-woman stared at the boy, curled up, as Briganda got up and looked about. Halrac was just sitting there.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think most of them got out, Halrac.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. Thanks for telling me.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was all the [Scout] said. And as Revi tried to rock Cade, unsure of what to do, she felt it.<\/p>\n

The Players of Celum. Invrisil. The door, coming soon. The Assassin\u2019s Guild on the rise. Riverfarm. A day of fun and relaxation and sudden worry and shock\u2014<\/p>\n

Halted. And ceased to matter. Because the adventurers felt it.<\/p>\n

Something, running through the city. A chill on Revi\u2019s cloth-skin. She stopped, as Cade yawned. And Halrac and Briganda shot up.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Dangersense].<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

They chorused as one. The Players of Celum looked up as the adventurers shot out of their seats. Eltistiman grabbed his wand, covering the door. Halrac swung his bow up as Revi put Cade on the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cSummons out, Revi\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMore [Assassins]?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. It\u2019s distant. Something\u2019s\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

A bell began to toll. Everyone in the inn looked up.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a city-wide alarm. The Watch has felt it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Eltistiman breathed. Halrac looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cJasi! Wesle, take care of Cade.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGot it. What are you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGriffon Hunt, with me!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac ran out of the door. The three adventurers ran after him. Eltistiman stayed with the Players. And Revi eyed the street.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet to the walls! Find the Watch!\u201d<\/p>\n

The adventurers ran as everyone else shouted, or panicked or ran for what they thought was safety. But Gold-ranks ran into<\/em> fire. They saw more adventurers in the streets. Some, Silver-ranks, were hesitating. But Gold-ranks?<\/p>\n

The Glitterblades raced out of the Adventurer\u2019s Guild late into the night. They pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat way!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone was blowing a horn, signaling the area the danger was coming from. Adventurers ran. They passed by the Watch. And Invrisil had a large<\/em> Watch, well-armed. Not the kind that fought with the criminal underworld, though.<\/p>\n

And not prepared…<\/p>\n

For this. Revi climbed the eastern walls and stopped. She froze. And Halrac\u2019s [Dangersense]\u2014Briganda\u2019s\u2014no wonder it had gone off.<\/p>\n

Her stitches moved. Her cloth-skin crawled.<\/em> Revi looked up and she beheld the shadow walking towards Invrisil. A vast thing. A giant.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods. What is that?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone breathed. The adventurers looked at each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a giant.<\/em> An actual Giant or\u2014I can\u2019t see! Halrac!\u201d<\/p>\n

They turned to him. The [Scout] was aiming his bow, staring through the darkness.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s some kind of Golem. It\u2019s\u2014made of\u2014flesh.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Everyone turned to him. And then they stared up at the thing. It had to be at least fifty feet tall.<\/em> Taller than even the half-Giants. Revi\u2019s skin was crawling.<\/p>\n

\u201cFlesh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see\u2014faces.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac drew an arrow and loosed it. The invisible missile sped through the air. Revi saw it detonate.<\/p>\n

A flash of flame. From afar, the giant golem appeared. It was made of\u2026flesh. A giant, humanoid figure, walking slowly. Huge stitch-marks were visible. But from afar, Revi could see hair. Arms\u2014what had been bodies. And yes, staring faces.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThe Blighted Kingdom preserve us. What is that? Who made it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda whispered. The thing lumbered at the city. For one purpose. Halrac loosed another arrow. Another magical arrowhead exploded<\/em>.<\/p>\n

The thing didn\u2019t even stagger<\/em>. It just walked through the fire that scorched it. A monster made of\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cBring it down! As Watch Captain, I am ordering you to join the fight!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

A man was bellowing at the Adventurers. People were blowing horns and the Watch was aiming longbows, wands. But the giant creation was impossibly big. The Gold-rank teams looked at each other. They beheld a monstrosity. So they did what adventurers do.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u201cGriffon Hunt, forwards!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac bellowed. His team raced out of Invrisil\u2019s gates, staring up at the huge Flesh Golem. Revi\u2019s glowing warriors raced past her, without fear. But the [Summoner] was afraid.<\/p>\n

This wasn\u2019t a Gold-rank threat. It was massive.<\/em> It could step over the walls and destroy the city if it wasn\u2019t stopped. Her team couldn\u2019t hope to halt it alone; even at full-strength they would have balked at a fight like this.<\/p>\n

But they were not alone. More voices bellowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cElites, get fucking ready for a fight! On me!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi strode forwards with his team. Jewel and the Glitterblades raced left.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re flanking it!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c[Chain Lightning] outgoing! Brace!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone howled from the walls. The adventurers racing below, especially those in armor, ducked. And lightning lit up the night. A Gold-rank team of [Mages] threw lightning and then fire, blasting at the giant colossus.<\/p>\n

\u201cSet up a firing spot here! Wailbows, with me\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t get near the feet! It\u2019ll crush you!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m setting up barriers at the gates\u2014cover me\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Hundreds of adventurers. Both Gold-rank teams and Silver-rank teams streamed out the gates. It was like the battle against the Crelers but on a larger scale.<\/p>\n

This was the City of Adventurers, Invrisil. And the adventurers lit up the night.<\/p>\n

\u201cWith me. We\u2019re attacking it from the side.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac ordered his team left. He drew and loosed in a single motion.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Piercing Shot].\u201d<\/p>\n

His arrow embedded itself in the flesh-giant\u2019s side, detonated. A bloom of light tore a chunk out of its body. But it was\u2014solid<\/em>. And it wasn\u2019t a living thing<\/em>. It stopped, swiping down at the adventurers racing around it. But they dodged.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s got no mobility!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s solid the entire way through, though! We have to stop it before it gets to the city!\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi and Briganda shouted at each other. The colossus\u2019 target was the city; it only attacked those around it, and it kept walking, slowly, crushing ground and everything else in its way.<\/p>\n

\u201cTyphenous, use [Valmira\u2019s Comets]. Revi\u2014advance!<\/em> Send your summoned warriors forwards!\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi pointed. Her glowing warriors ran forwards, slashing at the giant\u2019s legs, dodging back. Briganda stared up <\/em>as Halrac loosed another arrow.<\/p>\n

\u201cEngage the legs! Don\u2019t block each other!\u201d<\/p>\n

A Gold-rank warrior with an axe cleaved through hardened flesh. But the Golem didn\u2019t even react. Revi shot a bolt of fire and watched it scorch flesh, but\u2014it was so big.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not going down!<\/em> It\u2019s\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTake down the legs!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac bellowed at the other teams lighting up the skies with spells. Some heard him and began aiming lower, but there were adventurers in the way.<\/p>\n

\u201cComet outgoing! Dodge!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous shouted. Adventurers dodged out of the way as a glowing meteor hit the giant in the left leg. It\u2014paused. But that was all. It bent, aiming a fist at Typhenous.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet out of there!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi and Briganda grabbed Typhenous. They fled and the fist shook<\/em> the ground as it landed. No one could have blocked it. Jewel raced up the arm, copying the famous King of Duels. She began hacking at the head. But this was no half-Giant.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to take it down. Take it to pieces! Use an acid-jar!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s not enough acid in the world for that thing!\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt was loosing spells and arrows. Jewel flinched as more spells hit the giant\u2019s head. She jumped, and her fall slowed<\/em> before she hit the ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cWatch your fire!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t climb up on the damn thing! Let\u2019s bring it down. Backwards! Elites, aim with me! [Marked Target]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

A voice from the left. Revi saw a familiar man. Todi aimed a wand, coolly, with Todi\u2019s Elites. He pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Fireball]<\/em>.\u201d<\/p>\n

Six fireballs shot from the wands. They exploded<\/em> as one. The flesh giant felt that. It stumbled. Lurching. Part of its leg was destroyed. Todi roared, and his voice was louder than the rest.<\/p>\n

\u201cAim for the fucking left leg you worthless pieces of shit! Bring it down!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The other adventurers heard him. All of them changed their focus. And the flesh-giant seemed to realize the threat at last.<\/p>\n

It moved towards Todi\u2019s team. The Elites launched another volley of [Fireballs] and it stumbled, but it swung an arm down. Horizontally\u2014you couldn\u2019t dodge that and only Lacel could have leapt over it! Three teams screamed as they were hit\u2014Revi saw a man go under, crushed by the arm\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cGet clear!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt had seen the motion and had already moved out of range. Revi spun and shouted at Todi. But his team launched a third set of [Fireballs]. Todi watched the arm sweeping at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cMass-teleport on my mark.\u201d<\/p>\n

He paused. The arm swung, like oblivion, crashing through magical walls, obliterating tripvines. Todi nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cMark.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi saw his team vanish<\/em>. They reappeared behind the giant. Todi pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cVolley. Bring the damn thing down.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

More fire. The flesh-giant hunted for the next victim. It put its foot down, crushing a ground slick with oil or something greasy.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t try to make it slip you idiots! It\u2019s too heavy!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi howled. She and the other [Mages] were firing. The melee warriors, the brave ones who\u2019d stuck around after the sweep, shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe leg\u2019s going! Get clear!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Flesh Golem stumbled as more explosions tore away it\u2019s body. It fell, one leg snapping<\/em>. It hit the earth and Revi felt the ground quake. She saw the giant trying to stand. And then sweeping its legs.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet around it! Hack it to pieces!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The adventurers swarmed it. Silver-ranks fought shoulder to shoulder with Golds, ducking out of the way as big spells hit the giant. Briganda blocked a slow punch, saving a bunch of Silver-rank [Mages] who\u2019d frozen at the blow. Halrac blew off a finger with Typhenous\u2019 help.<\/p>\n

The walls of Invrisil were filled with adventurers, throwing spells and arrows. The Watch helped, but their arrows were actually more hindrance than not. It did nothing to the giant, and Todi began roaring expletives when the arrows hit one of the adventurers fighting. They ceased.<\/p>\n

The giant kept trying to crawl, kept trying to attack the adventurers. But it was outnumbered by far. And it did not die<\/em>. It was not alive. Nor would it stop moving until it was completely destroyed.<\/p>\n

So that is what they did. Piece by piece, the adventurers vaporized the giant, made of flesh and skin. They hacked it to bits, burnt everything to ash. Until all that remained was the smell and memory.<\/p>\n

It was not a battle of heroics. Of desperate last measures and levels. Revi was panting, her clothes and armor smelling of burnt flesh. Nauseating, and almost partially appealing, which was worse.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2014what was that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA monster.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac\u2019s voice was raw from shouting orders. He stared at the last bloom of fire in the darkness.<\/p>\n

\u201cFucking useless. If we weren\u2019t here, it\u2019d have smashed the city up, but it wouldn\u2019t have gotten <\/em>there in a million tries with us. What the hell\u2014did someone make <\/em>that? It was flesh. <\/em>Where did it come from?\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi spat, looking shaken. The other adventurers conferred. Now the blood wasn\u2019t rushing in her ears, Revi could hear more than Halrac and the other adventurer\u2019s words. She leaned on Briganda.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere were people in it. It was sewn.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cChildren. Families. It came from the east. But\u2014no one reported it until just now. But there were villages\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The adventurers looked at each other. They stared at what remained.<\/p>\n

Bits of skin, like fabric. Black thread, lying amid the ash, unwilling to be burned. The Watch stared. Some\u2014people who had not seen worse, adventurers and guards, vomited.<\/em><\/p>\n

The smell. The sight. Revi had seen worse things. But not\u2014recently. She looked at her team.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho did this?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She was shaking. And she was not the only one. Jewel was looking at a scrap of\u2026Revi looked away. The adventurers all wanted to know.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt came from the east. Can anyone raise a [Message] to any of the villages? Anyone?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Watch Captain was asking questions, staring. He looked over the walls, the way the thing had come.<\/p>\n

East. <\/em>Dozens of adventuring teams looked at each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone made<\/em> that. I saw the stitch-marks. Let\u2019s get a posse. Any Gold-rank teams. Where\u2019s Arcsinger\u2019s team? Let\u2019s find whoever made that thing! Anyone with me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi shouted. Instantly, dozens of teams volunteered. The adventurers were shaken. But exhausted? Their horror kept them moving.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold on, we have to wait. Let\u2019s figure out what the hell that was\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn waiting. Let\u2019s figure it out! Anyone with tracking Skills take the lead! [Scouts] forwards!\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi was enraged. He was organizing the teams. He was good at it. Halrac pushed forwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cTodi, wait. I\u2019m going to investigate that\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWith who? I\u2019m finding whatever the fuck made that and putting my fist through its face. We\u2019ve got more Gold-ranks than I can count! Come on!\u201d<\/p>\n

The man shook Halrac off. The [Scout] was arguing\u2014and then he stomped away.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat the hell was that? In the name of Rhir\u2014do they<\/em> have things like that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi was still panting. Her cloth felt ill<\/em> from that. As if something was wriggling in her stitches.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to find out what that was. Where\u2019s the Adventurer\u2019s Guild people?\u201d<\/p>\n

They were on the walls, of course. Half of Invrisil was gathered at the gates, staring in horror at what they had seen. It was a mercy the giant had died outside the walls. They asked the adventurers who were coming back what they had seen.<\/p>\n

Better not to know. The teams going each moved out, most on horseback. Halrac cursed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s the Guildmaster?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s talking with Adventurer Arcsinger. She\u2019s not joining the hunt\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDid she even participate? I didn\u2019t see a powerful blow.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi frowned. She\u2019d expected the Named-rank to have been more obvious. But perhaps she\u2019d missed it? Halrac saw the Guildmaster talking urgently and cursed.<\/p>\n

\u201cFind me a [Historian] or [Naturalist] or someone with a bestiary! Now!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The crowds parted. One of the Adventurer\u2019s Guild staff hurried forwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cHere. Adventurer Everam\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was that?\u201d<\/p>\n

The man with the Adventurer\u2019s Guild copy of the bestiary hesitated. He held the pages open.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2014looked like a Flesh Golem. A variant, at least. But the scale<\/em> of it\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have any information on what could make that? How it exists?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Adventurer\u2014but\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac pushed him aside. The [Scout] whirled.<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre we going with Todi, Halrac? We can catch up. We\u2019re not letting whatever made that slide, right? If it was a [Necromancer] or\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi was shuddering. She wanted to take out her eyes <\/em>and nose.<\/em> But she couldn\u2019t remove her brain, the memory of it. Halrac paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe lack information. Whatever made that had to be Level 40 at the minimum. Level 50\u2014if it was a monster of some kind, a spell?\u201d<\/p>\n

He paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold on. We have another source of information. Typhenous. Cast a spell.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhich one?\u201d<\/p>\n

The old [Mage] was panting, sipping from a mana potion. Halrac paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cSend it to Terandria. The Hunter\u2019s Guild.\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous paused.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know their location. I\u2019d have to look it up\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Instantly, Halrac and Briganda turned.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Mage]! We need a message-[Mage] now! Mage\u2019s Guild!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

It took them only a moment to get one of the [Mages] normally on duty. The man was frazzled, panting; he\u2019d participated in the battle.<\/p>\n

\u201cAdventurers, what can I do for\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac interrupted him.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac Everam. Griffon Hunt. To Terandria\u2019s Guild of Hunters. Kingdom of Shade. I don\u2019t remember the actual name. I need to send a [Message] now, asking for information.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEr\u2026Noelictus?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac looked at Briganda. She nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cNoelictus. Send it to their people. Top priority! They have a [Mage] who can receive. Tell them we need to know what<\/em> that was. Ask for Cassielle.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019d have to run that by the Guildmaster if it\u2019s top priority\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The man hesitated. Halrac grabbed him.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo it now.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Scout] never shouted, normally. Or raised his voice or changed expression. The [Mage] stared at Halrac the Grim and raised a finger to his temple.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have them. One moment. Sending details. Please speak a description of the monster.\u201d<\/p>\n

The adventurers spoke over each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cGiant\u2014made of flesh\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI detected magic from the stitches, which refused to burn\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFaces<\/em>. It was made of faces and arms\u2014someone took apart people and stitched\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFifty feet tall. Solid flesh interior. Enchantment didn\u2019t break until it was nearly completely destroyed.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage] tried to send it all. He closed his eyes, reaching for a piece of paper. Revi saw him pause. And his voice became flat, inflectionless.<\/p>\n

\u201cResponse incoming. Priority to Halrac Everam.\u201d<\/p>\n

He wrote, mechanically, on the piece of paper. And then he unfocused. The man slowly handed the paper to Halrac. Revi crowded around with her team. They read. Revi felt her stitches grow cold. The message was short. And it read as followed:<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

Flesh-Giant confirmed as work of Belavierr, [Stitch Witch]. Aliases\u2014the Spider, the Weaver of Terandria. Threadstealer. Max bounty in excess of 60,000 gold pieces. Named-rank threat. Currently <\/em>not advised to pursue.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/em><\/p>\n

And below that, another message, more personal.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

She killed a team of elite [Hunters] and a [Knight]. Equivalent to a Named Adventurer and a Named-rank team. Stay away from her.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u2013Cassielle<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Stitch Witch?\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi felt her threads moving<\/em>. The name sounded familiar. But\u2026she looked up.<\/p>\n

\u201cA Named-rank threat? She killed\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda paled. She looked at Typhenous. The [Mage] had gone dead white. He looked at his team.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard of Threadstealer. Whispers. I\u2019d rather cross the Assassin\u2019s Guild than her.\u201d<\/p>\n

Griffon Hunt looked around. And it was on their leader that they settled. Halrac looked at the note. He silently handed it back to the [Mage].<\/p>\n

\u201cGive this to Guildmaster Tealve. Now. <\/em>I don\u2019t care who he\u2019s talking to. Give this to him. And tell him the adventurers are in pursuit of the Stitch Witch.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Adventurer\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac pushed<\/em> him. The [Mage] turned and ran. Halrac turned. He checked his quiver.<\/p>\n

\u201cBriganda, get us three horses. You\u2019re not coming.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac!\u201d<\/p>\n

The woman exclaimed. Revi started. She looked at Halrac.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going?\u201d<\/p>\n

The man met her eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cTodi\u2019s headed straight for her. We have to stop him, and the teams who went with them. There are at least eight Gold-rank teams\u2019 worth and many Silver-ranks. Briganda, the horses. Move.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi turned to the east. Where no one had raised the alarm over the flesh-giant. And she heard it in Halrac\u2019s voice. They weren\u2019t going to reinforce the other teams.<\/p>\n

They were going to prevent a slaughter. Griffon Hunt found four horses waiting for them. They leapt into the saddles and raced out of the city gates, east, pursuing the adventurers who\u2019d rushed to find the perpetrator of this monstrosity.<\/p>\n

Briganda refused to stay back. And there was no time to argue. They galloped their horses, as [Messages] were sent, ordering Todi and the others to retreat. But Griffon Hunt went in person. Hoping to catch the other adventurers.<\/p>\n

They arrived too late.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

In a lonely village stood a woman. She was tall. And her clothes were dark blue, almost black. Like the abyssal depths of the deepest seas. Her hat was pointed. And her eyes were orange, ringed.<\/p>\n

She stood still. Like a statue. In the darkest hour before dawn.<\/p>\n

The witching hour. Belavierr, the Stitch Witch, didn\u2019t move as the adventurers found her.<\/p>\n

In wrath and vengeance. Righteous fury. They surrounded the village. Saw her standing there.<\/p>\n

The houses were empty. Not a light flickered in the windows. No one lived in this village. They should<\/em> have. It was close to Invrisil.<\/p>\n

But it had been emptied. Now, the Stitch Witch waited. She ignored the man roaring his furious questions at her. The adventurers shouting. Her gaze was absent. Far away. The shadows crawled around her, on her dress. And the fury of the adventurers turned cold. They felt a chill that had nothing to do with the warm air.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you do <\/em>this?\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi didn\u2019t know why his voice was shaking. He didn\u2019t hear Griffon Hunt, racing towards the village, shouting at him. The woman in the black dress, the [Witch], seemed to hear at last.<\/p>\n

Her head rotated. It twisted<\/em>. She looked at him sideways, and her eyes shone.<\/em> The rings seemed to draw him in. Todi\u2019s mouth went dry.<\/p>\n

\u201cI said\u2014put up your hands. You\u2019re surrounded.\u201d<\/p>\n

Multiple teams of adventurers stared at the woman. They hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cTodi\u2014my [Dangersense] is screaming. It wasn\u2019t going off a second ago. Now it\u2019s\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

One of his teammates whispered. She had gone white. Todi realized the truth. Too late. The [Witch] slowly took a step forwards. The air\u2026groaned. The shadows seemed to nip at the adventurer\u2019s heels.<\/p>\n

And the [Witch] whispered.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.\u201d<\/p>\n

Just that word. Nothing more. The mortal adventurers stared at her. They searched for the fury they had felt a second ago. But it was extinguished. Slowly, Todi aimed his wand at Belavierr\u2019s face. He saw her lips move, into a wide smile.<\/p>\n

The adventurers attacked as one as Griffon Hunt raced into the village. Revi saw arrows flying at the figure. Jewel unsheathed her blade and charged.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Fireball].\u201d<\/p>\n

Six fireballs flew at Belavierr. The [Witch] turned. She walked through the waves of spells and arrows. And a needle appeared in her hands.<\/p>\n

The arrows turned<\/em> in the air. The fletching screamed<\/em> and the arrows flickered back to their owners. Screams. Jewel\u2019s eyes went wide in shock. The Stitch Witch was gone<\/em>. She had walked in a single step\u2014<\/p>\n

There. To the side. Jewel tried to move. And then she realized she couldn\u2019t. She struggled. Little threads were binding her. Her arms slowly moved, back, back.<\/em><\/p>\n

Snap.<\/em> Belavierr listened to the scream. She pivoted. And the [Fireballs] hovered in midair. Todi\u2019s Elites stared as their magic halted<\/em>. The Stitch Witch tilted her head right and left. And then\u2014Revi saw her reach out and pluck<\/em> a strand of fire from the first glowing spell.<\/p>\n

The fireballs, swirling masses of fire, moved. They became strands of fire weaving together, becoming a tangled, larger orb of fire. Belavierr surveyed it. And then she pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cTeleport!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi\u2019s team vanished. The fireball detonated. And the fire\u2014<\/p>\n

The flash and heat kicked<\/em> Revi, even a hundred feet distant. She landed on her back as her horse reared, throwing her. She heard screams. Halrac\u2019s voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cRetreat! Fall back!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Adventurers were screaming. In a second, dozens had been downed. The arrows, the string webs around Belavierr that snapped<\/em> limbs like twigs\u2014<\/p>\n

And the needles. They flashed through the air.<\/p>\n

\u201cBehind me! [Shield Wall]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda threw up her buckler. Revi saw her shield glow\u2014a hail of needles snapped<\/em> as they hit the barrier. Briganda grunted.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCover me, Typhenous.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll try.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage] raised his staff as Halrac drew an arrow. Belavierr turned her head as the [Mage] threw an orb at her, a glowing violet ball of energy. She lifted the needle in her hand.<\/p>\n

Revi saw the magical ball of power vanish.<\/em> Typhenous turned pale.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c[Mages] weave magic carelessly. Look. I see a cloth-child.\u201d<\/p>\n

Belavierr\u2019s voice was deep. Quiet. Absent. But then she refocused. And she was looking at Revi.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201c[Piercing Shot]. [Double Shot].\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac loosed. Two arrows flew. Belavierr lifted her hand. They snapped<\/em> in midair, as the fletching moved.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHow did she\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cString. Stitches.\u201d<\/p>\n

Briganda breathed. Revi lifted her wand, reaching for a summoning stone. Her wand pointed at Belavierr\u2019s chest. And then moved down. Revi stared at her arm. Belavierr looked at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know me, child?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRevi, get back!\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac was doing something. He raised another arrow to his string. Typhenous was trying to conjure another spell. But something was wrong.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t use magic. She\u2019s\u2014unweaving my spells.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRevi\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI can\u2019t move.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Summoner] tried. But her strings, her cloth was\u2014vibrating.<\/em> Belavierr turned her head left and right.<\/p>\n

\u201cEven the String People forget me. Perhaps I have been gone too long. My daughter was right. I forget. So these are adventurers?\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned her head. Jewel was lying on the ground, arms broken. Todi aimed a wand at her. This time a bolt of lightning shot at her, fast as thought. It curved up<\/em> and gently formed a loop. It hit the man in the chest and he went flying. Alive? His amulets\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cTodi!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSpells don\u2019t work. Nothing with cloth. We have to fight her\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Typhenous drew his dagger. Belavierr looked at him as he lunged. He was fast\u2014<\/p>\n

His robes threw<\/em> him into the air. Briganda swore. She dove, catching the old [Mage]. She whirled, hatchet raised\u2014<\/p>\n

Belavierr reached down and grabbed the [Shield Maiden]\u2019s foot. She stood up. And threw Briganda at a wall.<\/p>\n

The Gold-rank adventurer went through the brickwork wall. Revi stared<\/em>. So did Belavierr.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo this is Gold-rank now. Intriguing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFall back! Fall back!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone was screaming the word. Briganda was moving weakly.<\/p>\n

\u201cStrong\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGet back, everyone. Typhenous, grab Revi and go.\u201d<\/p>\n

Adventurers were screaming, clawing at needles that stung their bodies. Some were cutting their friends free. But things were moving<\/em> in the village.<\/p>\n

Misshapen things. Golems, made of flesh. Lengths of rope, like snakes, which twined around necks and limbs.<\/em><\/p>\n

Revi tried to summon her warriors. They were needed. They could buy time\u2014she just had to move her hand to the pouch\u2014<\/p>\n

Belavierr was looking at her. The Stitch Witch seemed fascinated by Revi.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have been in Terandria far too long. Tell me, girl. Do you know me?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cN\u2014n\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRevi.\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac was aiming at Belavierr\u2019s chest. The Stitch Witch ignored him. Typhenous, clutching at his ribs, grabbed Revi. Then\u2014his robes twisted, choking him.<\/p>\n

They were being obliterated. Revi trembled as she saw Briganda trying to sneak up on Belavierr. But her armor\u2014it had thread<\/em> in it. Belavierr flicked a finger and Briganda went flying again.<\/p>\n

They were not prepared for this. Adventurers prepared. They shouldn\u2019t have trusted in numbers. They should have prepared for her.<\/p>\n

They should have brought fire.<\/em> Revi shuddered. Belavierr looked at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you know me?\u201d<\/p>\n

And now, the words triggered something in her head. Revi went cold. Her stitch-heart beat in her cloth chest. And her lips opened. Because the [Witch] let her.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou. You\u2014are you\u2014? Are you one of the Threadmakers?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Once upon a time, someone made the Stitch-folk. And they had won their freedom. Long ago.<\/p>\n

Belavierr smiled and her eyes drew Revi deeper, deeper.<\/p>\n

\u201cClose. <\/em>I did not make you. But I gave your people something. And you have always remembered me. Come here. And let me see what binds you. What you are made of.\u201d<\/p>\n

Revi\u2019s legs moved. The Stitch Witch\u2019s face filled her vision. She began walking to Belavierr. And the [Witch] reached for Revi\u2019s strings.<\/p>\n

Halrac loosed his arrow. Belavierr flicked a tip of a finger, dismissively. Revi heard a thunk.<\/em><\/p>\n

An arrow appeared in Belavierr\u2019s chest. In her heart. The [Witch] blinked. She stared at the arrow shaft.<\/p>\n

\u201cOw.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was the most normal thing she\u2019d said. Revi felt the control leaving her. She stumbled backwards. Typhenous gasped. Belavierr looked at Halrac, blinking. He loosed another arrow.<\/p>\n

This time she flicked<\/em> her wrist. The arrow went through her neck. The [Witch] made a sound. And Revi realized\u2014<\/p>\n

Halrac had stripped his arrows of the fletching. No string. The [Witch] kept moving, though. She wasn\u2019t bleeding.<\/em> She pointed and Halrac\u2019s armor and clothes moved. He went flying into the air.<\/p>\n

He loosed a third arrow, somehow, before he hit the ground. Belavierr staggered and looked at the arrow in her leg.<\/p>\n

\u201cPain. That bow is powerful.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was all she said as she pulled the arrow out of her neck. Revi was dragging Typhenous backwards. The [Mage] was gasping, strangled. Briganda was backing up.<\/p>\n

They were going to be killed. <\/em>The Stitch Witch didn\u2019t even seem slowed by what should have been two mortal wounds. She just sewed both holes in her body shut as she ignored the arrow in her leg. Then she moved.<\/p>\n

An arrow stopped, vibrating<\/em> in her hand. The Stitch Witch stared at it.<\/p>\n

\u201cWithout fletching. Can you fire an arrow without?\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac was standing a hundred yards distant. He was aiming at her with his invisible bow. The Stitch Witch checked behind her.<\/p>\n

Adventurers were lying on the street. Few dead. Most immobilized, under assault. She nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Good.\u201d<\/p>\n

She peered around. Todi was running, with his team. Belavierr lifted a finger and the adventurers flew. Revi saw the distant shapes soaring up, ten feet. And then they smacked<\/em> into the ground.<\/p>\n

Like a woman playing with puppets. Belavierr just looked\u2026interested. Her hand moved\u2014it caught another arrow. She paused. And then\u2014nodded. She looked at Revi.<\/p>\n

\u201cWitnesses.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch Witch nodded again.<\/p>\n

\u201cWitnesses.\u201d<\/p>\n

She lifted her hand\u2014and the shadows stopped moving. The things vanished into the shadows. Belavierr stepped back.<\/p>\n

An arrow shot towards her hat. The Stitch Witch made a sound; the arrow detonated<\/em>. She walked out of the explosion, her hat and clothing harder than armor for a second. That orange gaze landed on Halrac.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnother time. Tell them what you saw.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was all. She turned to go. And Revi realized. It was a message. The Stitch Witch began to walk out of the village.<\/p>\n

\u201cStop!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Halrac shouted. The idiot was still loosing arrows. A mundane one snapped<\/em> on Belavierr\u2019s clothing. The Stitch Witch turned her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cHm?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you do this? Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gold-ranked adventurer aimed at Belavierr\u2019s face. She stared at the glowing arrow tip. And she tilted her head left and right.<\/p>\n

Waiting for him to fire. Revi felt her skin crawling.<\/p>\n

\u201cHalrac\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gold-rank adventurer halted. Something was flickering in Belavierr\u2019s gaze. The disinterest, that vacant, distant, immortal look was becoming more lucid. And as she came into the world\u2014Revi saw it.<\/p>\n

A bit of malice.<\/em> She looked at the [Veteran Scout]. He stopped.<\/p>\n

And lowered his bow. The Stitch Witch, the Spider of Terandria, nodded. She spoke one word, an answer.<\/p>\n

\u201cEvil.\u201d<\/p>\n

A word, as abstract as could be. Almost a question. She paused, looking around. And then she turned. Belavierr walked away. A shadow, flickering across the ground.<\/p>\n

She was gone. Revi collapsed onto the ground. She felt as though her strings were cut. She looked at her team. The other adventurers, miraculously alive. Because death wasn\u2019t the point. Only the byproduct.<\/p>\n

All of this? An empty village? The flesh-giant? It was a [Witch] playing at evil. A symbol, a message.<\/p>\n

A mother\u2019s love.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u2014\u2014<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

The adventurers. The flesh-golem. Even events now as minor as Lacel the Leaper\u2019s crippling. It had happened, and rumors spread.<\/p>\n

Invrisil, the City of Adventurers, heard a name that night. A legend, rekindled. The spider scuttled out into the light.<\/p>\n

Belavierr.<\/em> And the Guild of Assassins was for once out-shadowed. But they had sent a message to Izril. Runners could be targeted. And the people who believed in things like \u2018pillars of society\u2019, and \u2018law\u2019, and \u2018justice\u2019 realized the truth. Such things only existed as long as the Stitch Witch decided to obey them.<\/p>\n

But her actions were not unnoticed. Nor that of the powerful Assassin\u2019s Guild. Gold-ranks could not stop either one. But they were not the only people who opposed such things. Nor even the Hunter\u2019s Guild, or [Knights] alone. There were others.<\/p>\n

It had been a bad night. Magnolia Reinhart sipped from a cup of tea. She had not slept. But the daylight felt false to her.<\/p>\n

The shadows were long. And she tasted it, despite the sugar in her drink.<\/p>\n

\u201cAn old monster has scuttled into my lands, Ressa. And the Assassins are making their move. Something will have to be done.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Lady Magnolia. Should we get brooms and dustpans?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot for a spider, Ressa. Send some [Messages]. The Guild can wait. But this is one large spider. Let the Runner\u2019s Guild handle the [Assassins] for now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSurely they received the [Message].\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady], Magnolia Reinhart, sighed. She felt the dark presence on her lands. Taunting her. Contemptuous. Magnolia clenched one hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure they did. But the Guild of Assassins believes too strongly in their myth. They\u2019ve forgotten what Runners are. Guildmistress Godfrey of First Landing has not. Leave the Runners to her. As for me?\u201d<\/p>\n

She tapped her fingers against her teacup. Magnolia Reinhart paused for a long moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cSend a [Message], Ressa.\u201d<\/p>\n

She sighed as the [Maid] listened, and then bowed. Magnolia Reinhart turned her weary gaze to the sun. How did you slay a dark legend? The Order of Seasons had failed. The [Hunters] and adventurers, likewise.<\/p>\n

It was easy to believe they were just stories in the light. But a legend was only a story\u2014until it appeared in front of you. Like the King of Destruction. The Necromancer. Or\u2026her.<\/p>\n

And here sat a woman. Magnolia Reinhart closed her eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hate<\/em> spiders.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Author\u2019s Note:<\/strong><\/p>\n

The second to last chapter before my break. I may be dead a bit. I did write this over two days\u2026but I think I overreached.<\/p>\n

As in, that was a lotta words. Some good, some I\u2019d revise if I wasn\u2019t posting just now. But it\u2019s done, and you can\u2019t turn back the clock. Unless you can and you\u2019ve been hiding your ability to do it\u2014I\u2019d love that power, please.<\/p>\n

Anyways, time travel aside, I have 1 more chapter left and I think it won\u2019t be the hardest or longest to write\u2026but you know me. After that, I\u2019m taking at least<\/em> a week off. Possibly two, as I had planned because I need it. I\u2019m close to burning away, or evaporating or whatever happens. Mentally, physically.<\/p>\n

Apparently I\u2019ve written over 480,000 words in\u2026less than 3 months. I don\u2019t know if I believe that, but someone said it to me. That\u2019s a lotta words. Is that true? It can\u2019t be true, right? Right?<\/p>\n

Anyways, a break is in order, but for now, feast your eyes on some art! There is so much in #fanworks in the Discord right now, and I can\u2019t feature it all, but I\u2019m going to showcase Golems today, done by FlauscheSoeckchen<\/a>, the same artist as last chapter\u2019s Frostmarrow Behemoth. They are amazingly well-done and the Flesh Golem is accurately horrifying. Second, great art by Chalyon!<\/a> I love Mrsha and Pisces\u2019 accurate sleep deprivation the most.<\/p>\n

These are but two of the artists, and I\u2019ll try to feature two more per chapter until I run out of art! I\u2019m always amazed at how good they are, and this is one of the reasons I write so much. Thanks for supporting the story, and look forwards to my break! I mean, I am. One more chapter! Thanks for reading!<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

…The ‘R’ stands for GR<\/strong>iffon Hunt. And for Revi. I dunno, but ‘G’ is taken.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Golems by FlauscheSoeckchen<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"War <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Flesh <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Golems <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Characters by Chalyon<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Cognita <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Az'kerash <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Lyonette <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Falene <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Tyrion <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Relc <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Mrsha <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Gazi <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Pisces <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Halrac <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Ceria <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Ryoka <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

Previous Chapter<\/a> Next Chapter<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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