{"id":8471,"date":"2020-06-28T06:44:23","date_gmt":"2020-06-28T06:44:23","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/wandering-inn\/?p=8471"},"modified":"2025-12-24T01:01:26","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T01:01:26","slug":"7-31","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wanderinginn.com\/2020\/06\/28\/7-31\/","title":{"rendered":"7.31"},"content":{"rendered":"

(Warning: Last chapter for Patreons was cut by about 5,000 words. Check the ending so you’re not confused about this one!)<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Mrsha had failed. The Fortress Beavers\u2014the last remnants of the Defenders of the Cave\u2014now occupied The Wandering Inn. The [Garden of Sanctuary] was their home.<\/p>\n

Lyonette had objected; Erin had overruled. The [Princess] had made many reasonable arguments. Like\u2014giant rodents who lived to eat wood<\/em> weren\u2019t the best guests for a garden with minimal foliage compared to your average forest. Also\u2014they could be dangerous.<\/p>\n

A regular beaver could take chunks out of you; a Fortress Beaver could take off body parts with some biting. Yet, Erin had pointed out they could import wood; Mrsha could communicate the priorities of not<\/em> eating the garden\u2019s trees to the beavers. They were cute. And\u2014<\/p>\n

They were her responsibility. Mrsha had let them down. In days of yore, she had brought beavers and spiders together with the Healing Slime to fight Crelers. But that alliance had fallen apart because\u2026they were different species.<\/p>\n

It could have worked. If Mrsha had stayed. If\u2014for some reason\u2014the Healing Slime hadn\u2019t vanished. If she had just visited once a week, something in Mrsha told her they would have been fine.<\/em><\/p>\n

She was a [Druid]. What that meant Mrsha didn\u2019t entirely know. Lyonette described them as \u2018homeless vagrants\u2019 who got into fights with [Woodcutters] in Calanfer. Nuisances who prized animal and plant life as much as any others. This had been before she learned Mrsha was a [Druid]. Now she described them as wonderfully powerful nature [Mages], <\/em>if sometimes misguided.<\/p>\n

She wanted Mrsha to be something else. Not even Erin knew that Lyonette was teaching Mrsha more etiquette, hinting about how nice [Courtiers] and [Princesses] had it. Mrsha took the lessons in stride and happily forgot everything until next time.<\/p>\n

She had seen the Frost Faeries bringing winter to the bad Goblins. She had seen the Wind Runner. She was a Stone Spears child as much as Lyonette\u2019s. And the magic of plants had saved her life.<\/p>\n

It made sense to her. But Mrsha had forgotten her duties. Now\u2014she strongly felt that these beavers were her<\/em> responsibility. They could not die. So she combed the little kit\u2019s fur and made sure the adults were healing\u2014she\u2019d even used her allowance on extra tonics for their healed wounds. She\u2019d even slept with them at night; Lyonette had been very<\/em> unhappy to find beavers in her bed.<\/p>\n

A microcosm of responsibility. When one of the beavers got a splinter from the jungle biome, Mrsha pulled it out. She didn\u2019t baby them. But they were hers.<\/em><\/p>\n

And now\u2014<\/p>\n

The Fortress Beavers hid in the pond\u2019s dam. The pond wasn\u2019t that<\/em> deep or vast. But you\u2019d have hard trouble breaking into the dam from above. Sediment, plant matter, and of course, wood, some of it bought from [Carpenters] in Celum\u2014had been turned into a rough dome.<\/p>\n

The kits and few adults were sheltering in one of the main chambers. Mrsha anxiously stared into the pond and saw one emerge from the underwater entrance. A large Fortress Beaver\u2014bigger than her\u2014surfaced. It stared at her.<\/p>\n

Stay. Bad things outside.<\/em><\/p>\n

The beaver solemnly looked at Mrsha. It was\u2026eerie in the way the beaver didn\u2019t nod, or show any other signs it had heard Mrsha. She knew it understood because it looked around, baring it\u2019s large incisors.<\/p>\n

But it was not Human. Not even part-Human, like Apista. The bee was part-Lyonette after all, but the beaver had no Skills affecting it. It just understood\u2014\u2018ally\u2019, \u2018enemy\u2019, \u2018danger\u2019\u2014and so on.<\/p>\n

Mrsha padded towards the garden\u2019s door. She heard loud voices, arguing. To her surprise\u2014the beaver came with her. It didn\u2019t like the noise, but it was protecting\u2014her.<\/p>\n

She tried to shove it towards the pond. The she-beaver refused to go. She, having determined that there was some danger to Mrsha, had decided to accompany the Gnoll child. Mrsha couldn\u2019t overpower her without Lyonette\u2019s blessing, so she gave up.<\/p>\n

The two peeked into The Wandering Inn\u2019s main room\u2014Mrsha\u2019s living room\u2014and found her family and guests in conference.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a riot, Lady Walcha\u00eds. The local [Lords] have whipped the people into a frenzy. They\u2019re marching on Lady Reinhart\u2019s mansion\u2014and smashing streets up as they go. The Mage\u2019s guild, the Merchant\u2019s Guild, even the Adventurer\u2019s Guild\u2014are all under attack.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut why?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice stood there, with a young woman who sometimes felt very old to Mrsha\u2014Maviola El. And with her was a [Lady] like flowers. Beautiful, but prickly. She stood with her husband, a tall man that had a rapier like Pisces, only, he wasn\u2019t as stylish.<\/em> Mrsha stared at them as the [Lady]\u2014Bethal\u2014turned to the pink [Knight]. He had cool armor too.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne assumes they\u2019re holding the Guilds to account for the Golden Triangle debacle. This is<\/em> what it\u2019s about, isn\u2019t it, Kerrig?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs far as I could ascertain, milady. Many of those who have lost money are taking Lady Reinhart to account for failing to shield them or warn them. They want\u2026her to reimburse them.\u201d<\/p>\n

A snort. That came from Maviola. The [Lady] shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cGive money to them? They lost it. Granted, it wasn\u2019t their fault\u2014but have you ever heard of a Reinhart giving away gifts?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia\u2019s unlikely to do that. She doesn\u2019t believe in charity. <\/em>But which idiots decided they could storm her mansion? Are they mad?\u201d<\/p>\n

Bethal murmured. She looked around the room. Lyonette, hovering unobtrusively at the back, glanced around.<\/p>\n

\u201cMrsha? Oh, good. Stay in the garden, dear. It\u2019s\u2026just a riot. I told you about them.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

In Calanfer, riots happened when the monarchy made mean decisions or some aristocrat did something stupid. Sometimes because something bad happened just by chance, but that was rare. In such times, you should hide with your treasure until people got tired and then send your [Knights] out. No sense in spilling blood; that just engendered bad will. <\/em><\/p>\n

If they came for you\u2014make sure you had a bolt hole, a few choke points, and loyal defenders. [Peasants] couldn\u2019t kill [Knights]\u2026mostly. Which was why you had good relations with adventurers and [Warriors].<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 –Lyonette du Marquin\u2019s Lessons From Home, Lesson 13, on public disturbance.<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Mrsha didn\u2019t know whether Lyonette\u2019s lessons applied here, but there were nobles, [Knights], and a riot, so she guessed Lyonette did<\/em> know what she was talking about. Nervously, she peeked around. Erin was worried. Even Numbtongue was worried. The Hobgoblin was sitting at the bar, listening in to the conversation while eying the pink [Knights] warily.<\/p>\n

But he hadn\u2019t sipped from his drink in minutes, which wasn\u2019t something Goblins did. That meant he was prepared to throw the drink in someone\u2019s face and then stab them with the fork next to his empty cup before actually resorting to his sword or guitar.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Everything was a potential weapon. Rocks, grass, dirt\u2014but it was better to have actual weapons. Hence, Numbtongue\u2019s refusal to go anywhere without a sword or guitar nearby. He\u2019d helped show Mrsha how to quick-release her wand for a fight. Also\u2014how to make a garrote out of long reeds of grass. Garrotes were always nice. You could use them for sneak attacks, repurpose them as tripwires, snares, or to carry snacks.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 –Numbtongue\u2019s Combat Training, Series 2: Improvisational Combat<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to do something. They\u2019ll get smushed<\/em> if they go to Magnolia\u2019s mansion. I\u2019ve seen it! It has giant steel golems and magical walls and stuff!\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin was worried. She looked around, but didn\u2019t get much support for the idea. The Players of Celum had entered The Wandering Inn. Jasi, Wesle, Grev, Emme, Kilkran with his excellent bald head\u2014Mrsha liked his wigs, very adaptable\u2014and all the others. Tonight\u2019s play was cancelled.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo something? My dear Miss Erin, there\u2019s nothing to do. I quite understand your reservations, but Magnolia isn\u2019t a\u2014an old-fashioned member of her family. She won\u2019t even bother entertaining the rioters, let alone put them down Terland-style.\u201d<\/p>\n

Terland-style?<\/em> Maviola grimaced. Lyonette did too. She whispered when Mrsha poked her leg.<\/p>\n

\u201cWar Golems.<\/em> They crush rioters hard.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bethal wasn\u2019t worried about that anyways. The [Lady] waved a hand. She\u2014like Rose and Galina\u2014thought Mrsha was cute. Also\u2014like a dog. Mrsha hadn\u2019t smacked her, but only because she was a guest.<\/p>\n

Drakes and Humans both have issues with our species. Many other species\u2014no. We do not have enough contact with them. If we have allies, they are the Beastkin of Baleros, yes? They are traditional allies and some of them visit\u2014like Hawk\u2019s parents. But they are a minority.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

If we hate Drakes, it is because we clash. They and we are very different. And too similar! Ah, but Humans\u2026Humans can be as bad as Drakes, Mrsha. Worse, sometimes. If Drakes call us savage beasts, well, Humans do not as often. But see how they pat you on the head? To them\u2014we are still animals. And animals are less than people. Yes, I\u2019m talking to you cats. Shoo!<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 –Elirr\u2019s General Lessons on Species, Anecdote #4.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Lady Bethal went on, her voice calm despite the tension in the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia\u2019s mansion is impregnable. If she\u2019s even home\u2014the rioters won\u2019t get in. The gates are spelled.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Erin relaxed a bit. She looked around; the magical door was gone. Lyonette had ordered it put back in the hallway, but it was still open<\/em>\u2014to the Player\u2019s Retreat. And from that inn, Mrsha could faintly hear the sounds of many people and loud voices. But Redit had the door and the other [Bouncers] were locking down the fancy inn.<\/p>\n

\u201cStill. Can\u2019t we do something? We should. Riots aren\u2019t good. I\u2019m pretty sure of that.\u201d<\/p>\n

The others looked at Erin blankly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy? Let them tire themselves out. This isn\u2019t Liscor, Erin. It\u2019s Invrisil.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2014what if someone gets hurt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not our job to stop that. Let the Watch deal with it. Erin. Don\u2019t go out that door.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Princess] scowled at Erin. And her words were accompanied by nods all around. The [Innkeeper] hesitated. Then she relaxed.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay? So what do we do?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

It went against everything Erin was. Mrsha thought Erin was like Apista and flowers. If there was a new one, Apista had<\/em> to investigate. In the same way, if there was trouble, Erin wanted to go there and be Erin.<\/p>\n

Mrsha wanted Erin to be safe. Riots\u2026Gnoll tribes didn\u2019t have riots. They had bad fights. The Stone Spears had once fought another tribe\u2014not all of them, but Urksh had been very angry and there had been many talks. Two Gnolls had died from the skirmishes.<\/p>\n

This was far bigger. So\u2014Mrsha crept through the crowd. The Fortress Beaver helped her push people out of the way.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, what the\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRat! Giant\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The guests jumped away as Mrsha rode the Fortress Beaver forwards. She spotted a familiar duo, heard two voices.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Archmages didn\u2019t predict this. Beza, have you heard from your faction? The Revivalists haven\u2019t sent me new orders in a while. I\u2019m worried Beatrice might know I\u2014aaah!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Montressa shrieked as Mrsha climbed up her robes. The Minotauress jerked and stared as Mrsha looked at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that Mrsha?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGetheroff!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere. What are you doing, child?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Minotauress [Spellscribe] pulled Mrsha off Montressa. The Gnoll found herself gently held in front of Bezale\u2014at arm\u2019s length. The Minotauress didn\u2019t seem to know what to do with her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Lyonette?\u201d<\/p>\n

Mrsha tapped the Minotauress\u2019 thick arm. Then she pointed. Beza and Montressa looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin, for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] turned as Mrsha was brought over. She stared at the little Gnoll.<\/p>\n

\u201cMrsha? What are you doing? I said go in the garden\u2014well, I guess it\u2019s safe. Is that\u2026one of the beavers? We should give them names.\u201d<\/p>\n

They should not.<\/em> But Mrsha just let Beza drop her into Erin\u2019s arms. Then she hugged Erin. The [Innkeeper] held her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not going anywhere, Mrsha. I just thought\u2014the riots\u2014oof! Stop hugging me! Maybe we can stop them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t try to firefight an inferno, Erin Solstice. You cut off its air and keep it from spreading. Even you, I, and Bethal couldn\u2019t stop it with our auras.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola\u2019s arms were folded. Bethal sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cAgain with the fire analogies\u2026I quite agree. Thomast, dear, I think we had better stay here<\/em>. Or at least in the Player\u2019s Retreat. Ser Kerrig and my Knights of the Petal shall guard the inn.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAbsolutely, Lady Walcha\u00eds. Innkeeper Veeid, with your permission we will keep the order around your inn.\u201d<\/p>\n

The nervous man with the chubby belly mopped at his forehead and brightened.<\/p>\n

\u201cSir Knight, that would be a most welcome\u2014of course! My permission and thanks! May I offer you a room, Lady Walcha\u00eds? On the house! Or\u2014will you be staying here?\u201d<\/p>\n

He glanced around The Wandering Inn. Mrsha had to admit that Veeid\u2019s inn was very<\/em> comfy. She had peeked through the door a few times and even visited once or twice. It had sofas<\/em> where you sat about them and ate. And\u2014and big rooms!<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. We may stay here. What do you think, Thomast?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Chevalier] spoke up for the first time so far. Calmly, he looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe [Knights] will guard Master Veeid\u2019s inn, dear. I think we should stay on the same side of the door, at least when resting.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2014very well.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bethal puffed out her cheeks, but sighed. Then she looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cIn the meantime, I suppose there is a silver lining! Do my eyes mistake me, or are the redoubtable Players of Celum here? I\u2019ve tickets for tomorrow\u2014I hope the show isn\u2019t cancelled!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Actors] started, and then Wesle swept a low bow. He had a charming smile and a presence. Mrsha still remembered the silly [Guard] that Erin called \u2018Fuzzylips\u2019. But it was harder to remember.<\/p>\n

\u201cLady Walcha\u00eds, we are indeed the poor [Actors] of Celum! At your service! I regret that today\u2019s play is cancelled\u2014tomorrow\u2019s as well, perhaps.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDepends on how badly they smash up the Solstice Theatre.\u201d<\/p>\n

Emme muttered. A few of the women accompanying Bethal made sounds of dismay. The [Lady] on the other hand waved that away.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnderstandable. But we are all trapped here\u2014and better in Liscor than Invrisil one feels, yes? Would you oblige us by a small performance? I see what appears to be a stage yonder\u2014and [Actors]!\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed. Every head turned. And Maviola and Erin both looked at Bethal. The [Lady] smiled, and her eyes shone with real excitement.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it isn\u2019t too bold\u2014I should pay for a performance and consider it better than a public spectacle.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course! We\u2019re all here, aren\u2019t we? Let\u2019s put on a show for Erin\u2014you haven\u2019t seen Elisial, yet, have you? Why, we could invite crowds from Liscor in!\u201d<\/p>\n

Jasi leaned out of the crowd and spoke, her voice melodious and measured. Her scales glimmered<\/em> and Mrsha longed to touch them. She looked less like the weary [Washer] and more like a\u2014star on the stage. The others cheered up, especially Emme.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe could charge tickets. Why not? Dead gods, that magical door is a blessing!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut about the riots\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin looked back at the door, but everyone else was happily following Bethal\u2019s suggestion. Mrsha turned to stare at Bethal from the [Innkeeper]\u2019s arms; she had Erin-energy. Mrsha liked her already.<\/p>\n

\u201cOof, Mrsha. You\u2019re getting heavy. Did you grow again?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin had to put Mrsha down. The Gnoll child sighed, but she was relieved. The others were in a buzz, taking Bethal\u2019s suggestion. A play! And Lyonette was hurrying to get people seated. The Wandering Inn itself had learned to create a moment even without the [Innkeeper].<\/p>\n

She kept staring towards the door to Invrisil. But Ishkr walked over and changed it to Liscor and Mrsha poked Erin in the leg and begged for Erin to teach her chess.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pawn to E3. That\u2019s called the Van\u2019t Kruijs Opening, you see. It\u2019s an irregular opening and it\u2019s not that aggressive, but you can transition into a reversed King\u2019s Pawn\u2014Mrsha, are you paying attention? You see, the idea is to control the center and blah blah, I\u2019m boring and stuff when I play chess.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 –A Symposium on Chess Opening, by Erin Solstice, [Innkeeper].<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh, alright. Let\u2019s sit down. Hey, Maviola. You gonna throw more poo or teach me stuff?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI could. I should find Olesm, but what\u2019s this about chess? I\u2019ve been meaning to play you. Olesm says you\u2019re the best player in the entire continent. Perhaps anywhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola\u2019s eyes glittered. Mrsha saw Erin smile and Bethal turn her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cChess?<\/em> Why, I play that too. Thomast dear, this is wonderful!<\/em> Don\u2019t make that face. I won\u2019t make you play chess.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Wandering Inn bustled and hummed, and Mrsha successfully distracted Erin. Which was her job, and everyone else helped her distract Erin from going out there and somehow turning the riot into a mega-ultra riot or something. After all\u2014it wasn\u2019t something that mattered to them. And what could you do about riots, anyways?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Riots.<\/p>\n

In a way, it was like Erin. What could you do about her? Well\u2014a lot of things came to mind. Kill her, incapacitate her, drug her, imprison her on numerous and justified legal grounds.<\/p>\n

The problem, to Magus Grimalkin, known as \u2018Grimalkin the Fist\u2019, or the Muscle Mage of Pallass\u2014all monikers he had accepted because they disclosed the underlying truth about him\u2014wasn\u2019t in execution.<\/p>\n

He could snap Erin Solstice\u2019s neck in a moment. Unless she was prepared, the [Innkeeper] was very defenseless. He wouldn\u2019t ever do that of course, but Grimalkin had lists of people who could kill him. He had thus, empirically, and logically analyzed everyone he had ever met to see if he could kill them.<\/em><\/p>\n

No, you didn\u2019t kill Erin Solstice. Like the damned riots; the [Sinew Magus] strode along Pallass\u2019s 8th<\/sup> floor and heard the shouting. The Watch Captains had their claws full.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot riots yet<\/em>, at any rate. But Wistram has done us little favors. And it will just take a spark. Riots\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

There was one in Invrisil. Grimalkin was keeping abreast and ahead of the news, mainly because Sir Relz and Noass were in Pallass. And they had just gotten word about the riots and were having a viewer-mage go there to suss it out. They\u2019d tentatively cancelled his hour-long special report on weights for that.<\/p>\n

The Drake was annoyed. But not just by that. He\u2019d just received another complaint about Erin and this one\u2014well\u2014the [Senators] wanted her head on a platter.<\/p>\n

And he wouldn\u2019t be the one to pull it off. Indeed, the problem with Erin and riots was that killing people solved nothing. You could disperse a mob with a [Siege Fireball]. But where did that leave you? With dead bodies. Loss of citizens of Pallass. Lingering fury\u2014a bad stench\u2014<\/p>\n

In the same way, Erin Solstice was an asset.<\/em> Look what she had wrought. You couldn\u2019t kill someone like that. Not unless you were certain she wasn\u2019t on your side.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd therein lies the question. Whose side? Liscor\u2019s? The Antinium? No\u2014before you can change her allegiance, I must know where she comes from. And that question\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

That question he was so close to unearthing.<\/em> Grimalkin had all the pieces. He\u2019d taken her innocuous statements, her little hints, the knowledge that shouldn\u2019t be there, the ignorance\u2014and put it together. In the way of a true Fissivilian [Mage], he had logically compiled it into a visual format. He had an entire room in his studio devoted to analyzing her.<\/p>\n

But his conclusion was\u2026extreme. Even for him. The Drake shifted uncomfortably as he walked and a passing Gnoll paused to stare at Grimalkin\u2019s entire body ripple<\/em> as muscles all moved together.<\/p>\n

His conclusion was extreme. But the evidence supported it and there was no other\u2026alternative. Grimalkin didn\u2019t know if it was the truth. But if it was\u2014<\/p>\n

No one could kill Erin Solstice. And indeed, the truth might drive the Walled Cities to their knees. However\u2014it assumes I am correct.<\/em><\/p>\n

Either way. The Drake shook his head. He quickened his pace. It still didn\u2019t excuse Erin Solstice\u2019s actions. Regardless of her origins, she was still <\/em>someone who meddled in Pallass\u2019 affairs. Who had cost the city\u2014helped it\u2014and caused trouble. Today, she had dealt Pallass a major blow. But Grimalkin had spoken out in her defense against the Council and Pallass\u2019 high command. Because of his suppositions. If it was true\u2014they needed Erin.<\/p>\n

He just needed to be sure. Sure\u2026the [Sinew Magus] had to lean on a wall as he approached the magical door and checkpoint. When he saw the waiting room inside, he did have to sit for a second, in one of the chairs. He stared at the newspaper, the vase of flowers, and the drawings on the wall. His eyes narrowed.<\/p>\n

It had to be true. Grimalkin the Fist Mage waited until the door opened. He knew what Erin was.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods. Ancestor\u2019s bones give me strength.\u201d<\/p>\n

He whispered. The [Guards] shifted; they couldn\u2019t square Grimalkin with the nervous Drake that sat there. And when the door did open\u2014Erin Solstice herself stood there.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah, yeah, I\u2019m checking, Lyonette! I\u2014oh. Grimalkin! Hey!\u201d<\/p>\n

The huge Drake stared at her. At the brass ring on her finger. At the young woman\u2019s clothing\u2014casual. Even bright. But he had observed the others, with their strange clothing. Outlandish designs. He had heard their whispers, looking at him. Calling him a \u2018bodybuilder\u2019. Also, a \u2018narcissist\u2019, but that wasn\u2019t the point.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin Solstice. If you have\u2014no. There is a situation that requires your presence.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage] stood up. Erin blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cUh\u2014is this about this morning? I can put this stuff away. I don\u2019t want to cause Venim trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis morning?\u201d<\/p>\n

Grimalkin glanced around. He shook his head, distractedly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is a minor inconvenience compared to\u2014the Assembly of Crafts is in uproar, Miss Solstice. You will have to come with me. Now.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh oh. I didn\u2019t do it! I think!\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin began to panic. Grimalkin saw another woman appear behind Erin. Who was this?<\/em> No, wait, he recognized her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing, Maviola! I mean\u2014what did I not <\/em>do, Grimalkin?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake folded his arms. He spoke one word and saw Erin\u2019s face change.<\/p>\n

\u201cPelt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. That\u2026might be me. What\u2019s happening?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s leaving.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola gasped. Her eyes went wide. Erin? Grimalkin saw her half-smile and then cover it. Her face turned into innocent shock.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh wow! I mean\u2014that\u2019s not my<\/em> fault! But good for him, right? He\u2019s not happy here, anyways.\u201d<\/p>\n

She peeked at him. The Drake said nothing, but his eyes narrowed slightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe situation demands your presence. Now, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine, I\u2019m coming. Maviola\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m coming too. This is exactly what I was trying to teach you about, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] looked excited. Grimalkin sighed but took it in stride. He stepped aside.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go. 9th<\/sup> Floor. We may make it in time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. Lyonette! I\u2019m going to Pallass for a bit! It\u2019s not my fault!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin shut the door. The two Human women began walking. Grimalkin followed them. Looking sideways at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t seem that remorseful.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do it. M-mostly.\u201d<\/p>\n

She avoided looking at him. Grimalkin thought about the things he could do. The things the [Senators] wanted to do to her involved at least a public quartering. But they needed her. Dead gods, how would he convince even Chaldion<\/em> of his hypothesis?<\/p>\n

But it was true. Grimalkin was not an idiot. He exercised his mind like every other body part. He had noticed Erin\u2019s inconsistencies. And over time, methodically come to the one logical explanation. He tried not to stare at her back, tried to make his silence feel like anger rather than\u2014shock. Awe.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow much trouble am I in, Grimalkin? Um\u2026asking for a friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t reply. The [Sinew Magus] followed Erin. Staring at her back. Yes. There was only one thing she could be. He had considered everything.<\/p>\n

That she was the daughter of a Wall Lord of Salazsar. That she was a [Princess]. An adventurer. A Drathian\u2014the disciple of Niers Astoragon?<\/p>\n

A member of the King of Destruction\u2019s court? A child of Rhir? Related to one of the Archmages\u2014no\u2014a descendant of a real <\/em>[Archmage]? Nothing had been off the table.<\/p>\n

But the truth was that there was no trace of Erin.<\/em> Nor did she know enough about\u2026anything. She knew too much, and too little. She had taught him about protein shakes. But she wouldn\u2019t explain what a \u2018protein\u2019 was. He had no doubt she knew.<\/p>\n

So\u2014the Drake would learn. For now, he contained his awe. He worked on validating his theory. He looked at the back of the\u2026time traveller. The girl from another era. It only made sense. The question he had to ask was simply: before, or after now?<\/p>\n

It would make all the difference.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Grimalkin was rather quiet as he marched them towards the 9th<\/sup> floor. Maviola was staring<\/em> about, playing it cool. But this was her first time in the Walled City and she seemed\u2014antsy.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomething wrong, Maviola?\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman jumped. She smiled at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2014er. It\u2019s just that this is something I never thought I\u2019d see. My family hasn\u2019t been to a Walled City\u2026ever.\u201d<\/p>\n

Oh. Of course. She was Maviola El. <\/em>This was probably the last place she wanted to be known. Erin had a crazy urge to mention her name to Grimalkin just to see his eyes pop.<\/p>\n

But the Drake was already in a bad mood and that seemed like a stupid thing to do. Erin was tempted nonetheless.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026Grimalkin. Buddy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cKeep walking, Miss Solstice. This is a matter of high priority.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin gulped. Grimalkin stared down at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow mad were people\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere will be a number of [Senators] present. I believe they were attempting to convince Master Pelt to remain. They also voted to censure your inn or even eradicate the doorway to block the move. The vote failed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a rel\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBy six votes.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAh. Um. Er\u2026I\u2019m sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Rather to her surprise, the Drake didn\u2019t lecture her about responsibility, the consequences of her actions and so on. He just folded his arms as he walked.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026I rather imagine you have no idea how close a vote like that is in the Assembly of Crafts since you did not grow up around Pallass, Miss Solstice. A democracy such as this\u2026it was a close vote.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, I know. I mean\u2014I didn\u2019t know about the Walled Cities.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUntil you came here.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake glanced sideways at Erin. She shrugged, self-consciously.<\/p>\n

\u201cUh\u2014no. Not at all.\u201d<\/p>\n

His head drooped.<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Troublesome. One would have assumed the Walled Cities were a household name. When–wherever you were.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin bit her lip.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I\u2019m used to big cities. Buildings just as tall.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh? Well, names can change. But this kind of architecture isn\u2019t unfamiliar?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake brightened up. Erin drew out her words slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo\u2026er, but hey! I like Pallass! How\u2019s the weight training going?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, that? I have a lot of new apprentices. Most washed out, but there\u2019s a lot of talent\u2026enough about that. So, when you say buildings of similar architecture\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake cut off as they ascended the 9th<\/sup> floor. Maviola gasped.<\/p>\n

\u201cCraftsman\u2019s hammers. So these<\/em> are the forges of Pallass!\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin and Grimalkin both looked at her in some surprise. Of course. The 9th<\/sup> floor with its endless forges wasn\u2019t anything new to them. But then they saw Maviola\u2019s shining eyes. The wonder in her expression. And they looked again.<\/p>\n

The pride of Pallass. Massive forges for working steel\u2014and steel was what Pallass made. Enough industry to supply the entire Walled City and other Drake armies with Pallassian steel!<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThere is no one place with equivalent industry. It\u2019s a marvel. Why, if we had this in the north, we wouldn\u2019t have to hire out to damn\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola El looked around. Grimalkin straightened in pride.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, well, Miss Maviola, isn\u2019t it? Pallass is<\/em> known for its metallurgy. We do not specialize in magical goods, but our steel is second only to Dwarf-craft. A fact Miss Solstice knows full well.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned her head and pretended to whistle as he fixed her with a meaningful eye. Maviola broke out of her stupor and glanced about.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. You had Pelt. W\u2014er, I heard<\/em> the Five Families tried to buy him.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWait, you know Pelt too, Maviola? Small world!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] rolled her eyes along with Grimalkin. She turned to face Erin, exasperated.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin. Everyone who wants to hire the best knows Master Pelt\u2019s name. He is one of the best [Smiths] in the world. Or\u2014was. There was a time when he was one of the <\/em>Dwarf-masters of Terandria. His name was one you memorized if you wanted the best. Well, along with Cinadel of the Lapis Anvil, Doon of Invinctel, Forgemaster Taxus, and so on\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh huh. Okay. Pelt was a big deal.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWas.<\/em> And now is again. Thanks to someone. Which also makes this moment even more inauspicious.\u201d<\/p>\n

Grimalkin pointed. And Erin saw\u2014across the usually-busy 9th<\/sup>\u2014every forge had gone dark. The hammers had stopped pounding. Only the smelters continued\u2014burning, but unmanned.<\/p>\n

There was a gathering around one forge Erin knew very well. She saw Drakes, a few Gnolls, Dullahans\u2014a familiar giant of a [Blacksmith]. And some people in robes. [Senators]. But as Erin walked forwards, she saw a shorter figure than the rest, standing there, arguing with the ones in robes. Speaking with others. She felt it in the air, even over the angry chanting coming from the lower floors.<\/p>\n

\u201cPelt.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin breathed his name. One of her\u2026special projects? Her allies? No\u2014<\/p>\n

Her friend. Someone she\u2019d reached out to. The proud, broken Dwarf [Blacksmith]. He walked across the 9th<\/sup> floor. Past lines of [Smiths], ignoring the [Senators] and people trying to get him to stay. They approached, and now heard his voice, a roar that could have been heard over the sound of hammers hitting metal.<\/p>\n

\u201cEnough! I\u2019m done with Pallas! I\u2019ve been here over a decade; I repaid my debts. This is my choice! Shove off before I split your hands with a hammer!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola and Erin saw the Dwarf shrug off a pleading hand, reply with a rude comment that caused the speaker to recoil. He looked ahead\u2014and his eyes met Erin\u2019s for a second. The instigator. Then he wheeled, answering sharply to someone else.<\/p>\n

This wasn\u2019t the drunk Dwarf that Erin remembered. This one had fire. He was still sort of a jerk. But he walked between the [Smiths] and they made way for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook at him. You lit his fire.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] turned to the [Innkeeper]. Erin saw. She saw what Maviola meant. To her it was different, though. She shook her head absently.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I didn\u2019t. I just found the real Pelt and woke him up.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola\u2019s warm hand gripped Erin\u2019s arm. Her smile was wide.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is what you and I do. You see?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin did. Now, they were closer, on the edge of the out lookers. Pelt walked past the ranks of silent [Smiths] until he stopped. He looked up at a kneeling giant.<\/p>\n

Maughin the [Armorer]. <\/em>The Dwarf looked up at him. Said something. The Dullahan, holding his head, smiled. But uncertainly.<\/p>\n

The [Smiths] looked like they were afraid of what was happening. Of Pelt\u2014leaving. But Pelt\u2019s reply made Maughin stiffen, then nod. The giant Dullahan [Blacksmith] put his head on his shoulders, then extended his hand.<\/p>\n

Pelt shook his hand. He smiled, one of the few times anyone in Pallass could remember the expression on his face. Then he turned away.<\/p>\n

His voice was louder now. Erin caught a fragment of it.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019d never level with me anyways, Maughin. Not chasing my shadow. I was not the greatest smith of Der\u00edthal-vel. Nor will I ever be. Even of those of us that left\u2014I was only the second. Find a better way of forging and surpass me. If you don\u2019t\u2014I\u2019ll put you out of business.\u201d<\/p>\n

He walked on, never looking back. Erin Solstice saw three apprentices follow the Dwarf. One of them was Emessa. The Drake apprentice didn\u2019t hesitate as she left her home behind. She followed her master. And he had lit a spark in her soul. She walked taller now.<\/p>\n

Erin hadn\u2019t done that. It had been Pelt. Maviola saw flames igniting each other. Erin just saw\u2014connections. Pieces on a board. But also her friends.<\/p>\n

And then he was walking towards them. The Dwarf looked at Erin, and she was conscious of every head swinging towards her. The [Senators] hissed or growled or fluttered their wings at her. The Dullahans just stared.<\/p>\n

\u201cUh. Hi, Pelt. What\u2019s up?\u201d<\/p>\n

He grinned. The Dwarf\u2019s teeth flashed in the sunlight.<\/p>\n

\u201cHeard that damn Golden Triangle thing caused protests. Decided it\u2019d be a good day myself. I\u2019m leaving Pallass.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe can\u2019t.<\/em> We hired him! We paid your asking price! Master Pelt\u2014don\u2019t listen to this\u2014this lowly [Innkeeper]!\u201d<\/p>\n

Senator Errif howled. He chased after Pelt. Erin saw everyone following; to avoid being caught by the angry ones, she and Maviola stepped after Pelt and the apprentices following him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s the other Human? Smells like fire. Keep away from my forge.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pelt grunted at Maviola. She bowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Pelt? My name is Maviola\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLike that old crone who tried to hire me for the House of El? Gah. I already don\u2019t like you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf snorted. Maviola\u2019s mouth slowly closed. She raised a fist and then punched Pelt in the back. He stumbled, swearing.<\/p>\n

\u201cGah! What\u2019s your problem?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s my\u2014namesake!\u201d<\/p>\n

Grimalkin glanced sharply at Maviola and his claws twitched<\/em> towards his belt and a quill. Erin saw Pelt snort at her. Something came out his nose.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo? You can tell her what I said. Word for word. You another fire freak like she was? Feels like it. First you\u2014then you\u2014I almost joined El over Pallass since it was closer, but I got tired with her fire-talk after the first minute.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola turned pale. Erin had to actually hold her back from kicking Pelt down the stairs. He strode on.<\/p>\n

There were<\/em> protests. The entire fifth floor downwards was filled with angry people. Erin saw the Watch keeping them back, though. Pelt snorted.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust another reason to get out of here. At least in a smaller city I\u2019ll have less idiots bothering me at my forge. Incidentally\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He pointed at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014That\u2019s the reason I left. Not because of you.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Pelt. So\u2014I guess people are angry about it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The second crowd chasing them seemed to be a good indication of this. But the [Senators] weren\u2019t as fast on their feet and their robes slowed them down so that even Pelt could outdistance them. He jogged towards the door on the 8th<\/sup> floor, puffing.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t let them leave! [Guards]! Close the checkpoint!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Sergeant Kel had a bad day. But Grimalkin put one claw out.<\/p>\n

\u201cBelay that order. Master Pelt is authorized to travel to Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Kel. Tell Venim this wasn\u2019t my fault either, okay? It was Pelt\u2019s decision, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin nudged Pelt weakly. The [Sergeant] stared at the master [Blacksmith] and then at Erin. Pelt strode through the gates. But the Assembly of Crafts put out one last desperate attempt.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Pelt. We\u2019d hesitate to stop you by force. You are<\/em> a lawful citizen\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd you couldn\u2019t stop me. I know my rights in your damned Walled Cities. You hold me a day and Dwarfhome will cease all trade with Pallass. And you lot still need our knowledge!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf glared. The [Senator], Errif, hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014That aside. Master Pelt, we are all too willing<\/em> to d\u2014triple<\/em> whatever Liscor is paying you.\u00a0 Consider it a signing fee for another\u2014five years?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin inhaled. Pelt only thought for a second then shook his head. The door swung open and Erin heard a commotion on the other side.<\/p>\n

\u201cHe\u2019s coming? Is it the Dwarf? Everyone line up! I can\u2019t wait to see the looks on Pallass\u2019 stupid faces\u2014<\/em>ahem.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Council of Liscor was on the other side. Pelt glanced up at them and then rounded on the crowd. He pitched his voice so they could all hear.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou want to know why I\u2019m going to another city? Easy. They made a better offer. Also, I don\u2019t feel like having my work stolen by a thousand damn spies. I want to forge in peace and quiet. It was too much work to move before; this time it\u2019s easy. Out of the way.\u201d<\/p>\n

He kicked a Drake [Senator] as he strode through the door. Erin covered a smile with her hand.<\/p>\n

And Liscor\u2019s Council was waiting there. They jumped as they heard Pelt\u2019s words. But Lism bustled forwards, full of self-importance. Raekea and Alonna practically sprinted from the inn. Erin heard Raekea panting to Alonna.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to get them to finish the woodwork! He didn\u2019t tell us he was coming\u2014where\u2019s Master Hexel!?\u201d<\/p>\n

Inside the inn, everything was sunshine and gloating expressions.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. Master Pelt, your forge awaits. Free of charge, of course. Rent-free! And we\u2019ll work out the particulars of your stay\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Lism was rubbing his claws together, trying to bow and shake Pelt\u2019s hands\u2014both of which the Dwarf ignored.<\/p>\n

The Dwarf looked at the Drake. And looked through him. At Erin. The [Innkeeper] saw him push through the Council. And the short man looked up at her. He paused a second there, contemplatively looking around Erin\u2019s inn. Then Pelt grunted.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, this is your fault. I told everyone that.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

He grinned. But he was alive.<\/em> Burning as Maviola saw it. But Erin just saw him put his hands under his apron and scratch at his stomach.<\/p>\n

\u201cThing is. I always liked Scales and Tails. But you promised me drinks. And Lasica\u2019s cooking isn\u2019t that<\/em> good. I drink my meals, so if you can replace Rufelt\u2019s fancy stuff with a keg\u2026think it\u2019s a good idea? You told me to try.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] looked at all the angry people. But that was a byproduct of almost everything she did. She looked at Pelt and saw the smile on his face. So she smiled too.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. I think so. So\u2014you\u2019re coming here?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Let\u2019s see.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf looked around. He narrowed his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cToo much damn wood. Flammable. But there\u2019s magic here. Even if it\u2019s channeled. Good ore comes from Liscor when it\u2019s winter. Drake cities\u2014there\u2019s worse places to be. Nice security. I hate water, but it\u2019s better than having Human gangs running the place.\u201d<\/p>\n

Everyone held their breaths. The Dwarf touched the hammer at his belt.<\/p>\n

\u201cI could make a masterpiece. With privacy. With proper apprentices, equipment\u2014I\u2019ll have to forge the tools myself, source the ingredients. But if no one steals my work, I could make proper blades.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

He spoke to shake Pallass and Liscor, as if everything before now, even the Grasgil axe, all his begrudging art had been just trash made in his sleep. The Dwarf inhaled.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. A forge here\u2026what do you think, Emessa?\u201d<\/p>\n

He turned to his apprentice. The Drake\u2019s eyes were shining.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe could make a proper forge, master. To your specifications. Even here\u2026<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She gestured around the inn. Erin\u2019s breath caught. The Dwarf nodded. Liscor\u2019s Council looked at each other. The [Senators] looked like they were having strokes. Pelt looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cLiscor. Hm.\u201d<\/p>\n

He walked down the hallway. Senator Errif ran after Pelt, through the magic door. The others fought to get through and it turned off, leaving only a handful with Maviola and Grimalkin.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Pelt! Let\u2019s talk about this! We can offer twice the space Liscor has! And far better accommodations\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me! This fine Dwarf has made his decision!\u201d<\/p>\n

Lism jostled with the Gnoll as the [Senators] and Councilmembers fought to get Pelt\u2019s attention. Threats were exchanged\u2014fighting broke out. Erin just followed Pelt.<\/p>\n

The Dwarf walked back and stopped at the magical door again. It was open to Liscor. He looked back at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Solstice. I still owe you one favor. Despite the damn mithril thing. Not sure\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He passed his hand over his face and his expression went perfectly blank for a moment. Then he shook his head. And then he smiled. For a moment, he looked at the magical door. Krshia had set it to Liscor. And he looked like a grandfather, many decades older than Erin, a young man remembering his passion, a [Smith] regaining his fire. He reached out\u2014<\/p>\n

And slapped the door shut. Erin jumped. Maviola blinked. The fighting Council and [Senators] stared as Pelt reached up. He was too short.<\/p>\n

\u201cApprentice! Change the door!\u201d<\/p>\n

Emessa hurried forwards. She adjusted the dial. Everyone stared. Erin\u2019s mouth opened.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait a second. That\u2019s\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The door opened. <\/em>Pelt strode forwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cAha. I\u2019m expected, am I? Is my forge ready?\u201d<\/p>\n

And the Human man on the other end bowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Pelt\u2014it is. We\u2019re honored to have you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drakes, the Gnolls, stared. They looked in horror as Pelt walked forwards, through the door. He had been stolen. By\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cHumans?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Lism whispered in horror. Errif\u2019s jaw dropped.<\/p>\n

\u201cInvrisil?\u201d<\/p>\n

And Erin\u2019s smile vanished. She shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia Reinhart?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked at Pelt, her eyes bulging. Betrayed. The Dwarf looked back. And he laughed in her face. He laughed his ass off. He laughed\u2014and Erin realized\u2014she was wrong.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait.\u201d<\/p>\n

The door had opened onto a street. Not an inn. And even if it had been moved\u2014this was the wrong street. Her eyes narrowed. Then widened as she realized the trick Pelt had played on them. On them all.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t Invrisil. It was\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cEsthelm.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The small Human city of [Miners] situated north of Liscor was turned out to see the Dwarven [Smith]. Pelt walked past their Watch Captain and head of the militia, a man she\u2019d met before\u2014<\/p>\n

Umbral. The man who had taken over the city\u2019s security. He had helped Erin with a coup this one time. He was bowing to Pelt.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Pelt, we\u2019re delighted to have you. We have your quarters for your apprentices. And your forge. We even have a small celebration in your honor\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood to hear it. But I want to make sure my forge is ready first. Save your celebration. Maybe cheer these idiots up with it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pelt jerked a thumb over his shoulder at the speechless crowds. He smiled, in the best of moods and walked forwards.<\/p>\n

Esthelm cheered him.<\/em> The people turned out of the stone houses built into the city that lay in the middle of the High Passes and the road heading north from Liscor. The mining folk\u2014who had suffered the Goblin Lord\u2019s assault\u2014were shouting Pelt\u2019s name. And why not? Here was a master [Smith]. In their<\/em> city.<\/p>\n

Not Liscor. Not Pallass. Not Celum or Invrisil. It left the others speechless. But despite herself\u2014Erin found a huge smile on her face. Maviola was crestfallen. But she didn\u2019t get it.<\/p>\n

Look at him. Pelt looked so happy.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cBut why Esthelm?<\/em> It doesn\u2019t have anything!\u201d<\/p>\n

Lism spluttered. The [Senators] were just as appalled. It was Pelt who snorted.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoesn\u2019t have anything? Esthelm provides all the damn ore in the region! They offered me iron for copper.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

And that was what mattered to a [Smith]. More than drinks. More than a Walled City. Erin marveled. Of course, someone like Pelt wanted those things. So it was a good thing he had a magical door.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou brilliant jerk.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin whispered. Then she was through the door like a shot. She hugged the annoyed Dwarf, but he didn\u2019t brush her off for a good six seconds. Erin laughed until he shoved her off, growling curses.<\/p>\n

They left behind the angry people in Liscor\u2019s inn. Esthelm\u2019s ruling body of Master Crafters\u2014who had replaced the military leader that Erin had helped get rid of\u2014cheerfully body-checked the [Shopkeepers] and [Senators]. Esthelm\u2019s legislative body was made up of [Miners], [Shepherds], and tough people; in the war of knocking each other down, they were Gold-ranks.<\/p>\n

\u201cI hear there\u2019s some good lots in Esthelm. Umbral, was it? [Sigilists]. [Gemcutters]. I want to talk with all of \u2018em. Some of the magical metals take tricky things. You give me what I want\u2014I\u2019ll pay for it. No one spies on me but my apprentices. And I\u2019ll cut Esthelm in their share of my sales.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Master Pelt. They\u2019re all waiting to meet you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey are, are they?\u201d<\/p>\n

That pleased him. Pelt walked past cheering faces, affecting not to notice them. But Erin saw him glancing at children waving little hammers, people who knew his name. His reputation. He smiled, and hid the expression in his beard.<\/p>\n

\u201cGrandfathers, but I never get peace and quiet anywhere. The price of being too good at my trade, I suppose.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin snorted. Umbral gave her a mystified look as he nodded. Maviola, fuming, stomped back to the inn.<\/p>\n

Someone else trotted after them. Erin turned her head. She saw Montressa\u2014Beza\u2014and\u2014her face broke into an excited grin.<\/p>\n

\u201cPsst. Pelt. Pelt.<\/em> I want to introduce you to some friends. [Mages] from Wistram.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm? Oh, fine. This parade\u2019s for me, but ruin my day, will you? I suppose knowing a few decent [Mages] is important. Although I was going to work with Hedault of Invrisil. Who\u2019s this lot?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf turned around. All three [Mages] bowed. Montressa lifted her staff.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Pelt? I am Montressa du Valeross, an [Aegiscaster] of Wistram. This is Bezale, a [Spellscribe], and\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin nearly shoved her aside. She grinned eagerly as she indicated the Centaur with two hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cPelt. I want you to meet\u2026Palt.<\/em> Hah!\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman looked around excitedly. She laughed, slapped her thighs\u2014and realized no one was laughing.<\/p>\n

Pelt blinked at Palt\u2019s name, but the Centaur just bowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Smith. It\u2019s an honor. I\u2019m an [Illusionist]. I realize our classes aren\u2019t that complimentary, but we wanted to introduce ourselves to such an important [Smith]. All our factions would love to speak with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf looked at Erin, still waiting for someone to laugh with her. He opened his mouth to shout something insulting\u2014then caught himself. He nodded at the Centaur after a moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure they would.<\/em> But I\u2019m getting set up. Come by later, I suppose, Emessa will make an appointment. You want more of that thing, huh? Something\u2019s odd about the insides. Crystal magic? Fine. But later.\u201d<\/p>\n

He pointed. Montressa jumped. Everyone turned to stare at the brass shock orb hovering behind her. Palt bowed. And the Dwarf went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t like Wistram. But a [Spellscribe]\u2019s useful. You\u2014Minotauress\u2014we\u2019ll talk. You\u2019re staying at The Wandering Inn, right? Anyone who can put up with her<\/em> deserves some sympathy.\u201d<\/p>\n

He jerked a thumb at Erin. She looked indignant.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey! Is no one going to talk about the names? <\/em>Pelt? Palt? Huh? Huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

The others looked at her. Umbral, Pelt, Palt, Montressa, Beza\u2026the Centaur slowly puffed away on his cigar. He offered Pelt one; the Dwarf refused it.<\/p>\n

\u201cI pity you bastards. Alright, Umbral, show me my forge. And do me a favor?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnything, Master Pelt.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man bowed. And the other leaders of Esthelm and craftspeople were coming forwards. Pelt jerked a thumb at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet rid of her. She\u2019s bothersome to my work.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin saw every head turn to her. She wavered.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey now. Pelt, that was a joke, right? We\u2019re best buds! Hey\u2014don\u2019t shove\u2014Pelt, say someth\u2014Pelt, you traitor! Traitor!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pelt of Der\u00edthal-Vel heard Erin\u2019s voice growing softer in the distance. He had travelled far from his home. But he would always be from there.<\/p>\n

The Dwarf was old. Old\u2014and young. A lad, really. They called him a master. But he had seen masters.<\/em> If he had stayed\u2014<\/p>\n

Perhaps it was better he\u2019d left. As he had told Maughin, greatness came from challenging, not copying. If only he had known that and left with his head held high. Rather than disgrace.<\/p>\n

The Dwarf\u2019s eyes grew dark. He nearly stumbled and fell\u2014in front of all the Humans. But though that blasted girl had\u2014knocked the rust off him, he couldn\u2019t confront the last.<\/p>\n

This was enough. Pride in metal. Pride in your craft. Pride in yourself<\/em>. What good is the quality of the steel if there was no heart in the hand the held the hammer?<\/em> Damn that Dullahan.<\/p>\n

Maughin would be a master in his own time. For now\u2014Pelt murmured something as Umbral led him to the forge.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to kick her out of the city. That was a joke. Didn\u2019t you say you owed her countless favors?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course, Master Pelt. But you said\u2014apologies.\u201d<\/p>\n

The man bowed, flustered. The Dwarf saw him hurry off. And he sighed as he beheld his forge.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh.<\/em> That is what I wanted.\u201d<\/p>\n

The others stared. Some dismayed. Liscor\u2019s Council, other [Smiths]\u2014the aghast [Senators] made no effort to hide their disdain.<\/p>\n

But the [Mages] were smarter than that. Out of the corner of his eye, Pelt saw the fiery-haired Maviola\u2014much like the old woman he\u2019d refused to serve\u2014inspecting the forge.<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Interesting.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The forge was\u2014primitive. Not like Pallass\u2019 grand forges ready to shape steel, or even Liscor\u2019s new one meant for him. At first glance it seemed crude.<\/p>\n

Oh, the people of Esthelm had worked hard. The stone and mortar made a large, large building. Three times larger than any other forge. And they\u2019d built it carefully, leaving no flaws.<\/p>\n

It just lacked pomp.<\/em> Expensive wood, color\u2014who needed that? It had more. Pelt stomped into his forge as his apprentices stifled their dismay.<\/p>\n

\u201cLiving quarters. Good. Don\u2019t care. Put my stuff in a room.\u201d<\/p>\n

He shouted at the apprentices. Then he turned to regard the forge. He found the smart ones already there. Palt, the Centaur, nodded to him as he trotted around an anvil placed in a magical circle.<\/p>\n

\u201cSub-compartmentalized rooms. Each one blast-enchanted?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood eyes, Baleros brat. You\u2019ve seen smithies before?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot like this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Beza murmured. The Minotauress eyed the multiple anvils. One was made out of stone.<\/em> Another in the magical circle\u2014and there were multiple forges. Mostly shells; Pelt would have to customize them.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is this, Master Smith? I have been in the House of Minos\u2019 forges, but never seen this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBah. That\u2019s because your lot doesn\u2019t forge magic.<\/em> This is magic. I\u2019ll need to hire someone to make sure the forges can get hot enough. Stone melts, damn the stuff. You\u2019ve never seen Wistram\u2019s smithing halls?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFew smiths come to Wistram with the talent anymore.\u201d<\/p>\n

Montressa emerged from another room, brushing frost off her robes. Grasgil would be made there. Pelt grunted; he didn\u2019t mind them looking. Wistram had stolen forge designs; they wouldn\u2019t get his metals, though.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a waste. Alright. You lot clear out! It looks decent. But where\u2019s the standard anvils?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere. Master Pelt\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

There were mundane ones. Pelt chose casually; they were all alike.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet it out there. In the open. Huh. That one\u2019s got a fucking crack.<\/em> Get rid of it!\u201d<\/p>\n

He kicked the offending anvil. There was a flurry and other hands dragged his chosen anvil out.<\/p>\n

The crowds were still there. Pelt strode past the annoying flies\u2014people from Liscor and Pallass. He looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cApprentice! Emessa, damn it. Get your tail out here!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake appeared and Esthelm\u2019s people murmured. But the Antinium had rebuilt their walls and she carried a hammer. She was familiar to them because of that.<\/p>\n

An angry [Innkeeper] was dancing about in the street. But she\u2019d brought a Gnoll and one of Terandria\u2019s [Princesses] to see him. Pelt recognized the hair color. Also, the way Lyonette carried herself.<\/p>\n

He didn\u2019t care. The Dwarf looked at Emessa.<\/p>\n

\u201cSet up the outdoor forge. I\u2019m not hammering hot; steel temperature. And get me the crystal.\u201d<\/p>\n

Her eyes widened. The others stirred. Maviola glanced at Pelt.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re going to do some hammering?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf didn\u2019t reply. He glanced at Maviola, and then narrowed his eyes. Grandfathers, it was her.<\/em> The same flame! You couldn\u2019t copy that. He shuddered. Magic potions and immortals. <\/em>He was just a smith. He didn\u2019t say a word though; he had kept far greater secrets than hers faithfully.<\/p>\n

He only knew one thing. The Dwarf saw the [Innkeeper] approach. He made no sign he saw her. She had a big enough head already.<\/p>\n

\u201cSay. Centaur. Palt\u2019s the name, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Illusionist] jumped. He took the cigar out of his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Master Smith\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEnough with that. I don\u2019t care. Nor do I care about Wistram. Or petty Walled Cities or anything else. I just move metal. I was happy enough to drink myself to death. Or so I thought. That damn Human. Just\u2014tell me something. In her inn. She has a Hobgoblin, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mages] exchanged a worried glance. Maviola just narrowed her eyes and looked around. Palt nodded slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne. Numbtongue.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. I saw that bugger a few times. Uses a sword, right? Longsword? Decent steel but someone\u2019s notched it a thousand times.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf nodded. He\u2019d known that before. He didn\u2019t bother asking if it was the preferred weapon; odds were the Centaur didn\u2019t know and Goblins used whatever they could grab.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s my crystal and fire, apprentice?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

He roared. The crowd jumped. Emessa, though, was used to it.<\/p>\n

\u201cHeating up, master! Any pick on steel?\u201d<\/p>\n

She had billets ready for him. Pre-made. Pelt knew the steel on each was perfect, but he still chose carefully, examining micro-fragments. The minutiae of the alloy material in the steel itself. He selected one, grunted.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll do. Heat it up. Now\u2014I\u2019m ready.\u201d<\/p>\n

There he stood. The crowd was murmuring. At last, one of them called out. She was a [Smith]. A Human woman, talented for her brief time. That was the thing. Smiths leveled faster the shorter their lifespans.<\/p>\n

Ah, but true skill took decades. Centuries, even. That was the unfairness. Pelt felt for these young children. He had been born with an advantage\u2014and he hadn\u2019t squandered it. Every day of his youth he\u2019d swung a hammer. And he had longer than them left to live, even with diluted blood running in his veins.<\/p>\n

But don\u2019t scorn them. The Dwarf inhaled. And then he bellowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Mistress Smith! Have you not heard of the tradition of every Master Smith who has mastered at least five of the great metals beyond steel?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The crowd blinked up at him and shook their heads. From Pallass, the [Smiths], including Maughin raised their heads. Pelt kept one eye on the steel in the fire. He drew a hammer and looked for Erin again.<\/p>\n

There she was. The Dwarf\u2019s voice was no less loud, but more conversational as his apprentices laid out tools for him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, it\u2019s simple. The custom is that a true master should\u2014nay\u2014must<\/em>, upon moving to a new place, a new land, prove his worth. For great masters move seldom! They travel\u2014ah, but when they move, they should demonstrate their craft. By forging in public some blade or work of art. Large or small. It\u2019s no grand tradition like Terandrian kingdoms have. Just respect for the metal.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou never did that when you came to Pallass!\u201d<\/p>\n

A voice. Pelt threw his hammer. Senator Errif ducked as the hammer cracked<\/em> the very flagstones of the street and then flew back towards Pelt. The Dwarf roared back.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I didn\u2019t feel like it. <\/em>I do now. Apprentice! Where\u2019s my crystal?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHere, Master!\u201d<\/p>\n

And there it was. The Dwarf sighed as he drew something out. Everyone saw a long, long<\/em> sliver of\u2026red-gold crystal? Mrsha climbed onto Erin\u2019s head and then leapt onto Maughin\u2019s shoulder for a better look. The Dullahan tried to make sure she wouldn\u2019t fall as he called out.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaster Pelt! What is that?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCrystal. <\/em>That\u2019s all, Maughin. The kind that cuts sharp and hurts whomever it touches.\u201d<\/p>\n

The red was mixed with gold. Truegold\u2014a ghost-killer\u2019s blade. But the crystal could cut mere steel. And it would not break easily. Nevertheless, it was too costly; all he had was a tiny amount, stretched long.<\/em><\/p>\n

An edge. The crowd murmured. Maughin stared<\/em> at the beautiful, thin crystal. The Dwarf was taking care not to even lay the edge down on the anvil, lest it cut into the iron.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes it have a name, Master? It must.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf glanced up, irritated. But perhaps that was the act. He replied curtly.<\/p>\n

\u201cEverything has many names in smithing, you Dullahan pest! Some call this crystal Cridel.<\/em> The deadly blood of Baleros! Others knew it of old as a different thing: Dragonblood Crystal.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Silence. Someone laughed, disbelievingly. The Dwarf shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe edge is good. I have little of it. But this would make a fine blade, even with steel to hold it. Steel and iron. So look, people of Esthelm. I am Pelt of Der\u00edthal-Vel! And look, you annoying [Innkeeper]! You insane wretch of a girl!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

He bellowed as he raised his hammer and pointed it. Erin jumped. She saw the Dwarf raising his hammer high, as he grabbed the steel out of the forge at the perfect temperature. He bellowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is my art!<\/em> \u2018Let the world remember only what I have made!\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

Fine words, uttered by his friend. The Dwarf\u2019s hammer fell. It struck the metal, bounced up, and came down again.<\/p>\n

First, it was a single beat. Then\u2014a ringing in the air. Then drumming.<\/p>\n

Faster. Faster. <\/em>Until each blow rang in the air and the watchers thought the anvil itself jumped with each blow. The steel moved like water under the hammer, but not without function. Shifting, changing.<\/p>\n

Folding. Lengthening. Erin had seen the Dwarf do it once before. For her knife. He was using the same technique; folding the metal to create a sandwich. And there, a glittering edge waited.<\/p>\n

But the difficulty of it was different. When the smith placed the glittering edge in his waiting sword\u2014his thunderous hammering became as quiet as butterflies landing on the anvil. He refused to strike the crystal, melded the steel around the edge so gently that it seemed like each individual tap<\/em> did nothing. But slowly, the metal engulfed the glittering edge.<\/p>\n

A master\u2019s work.<\/em> He couldn\u2019t have been at his work longer than an hour. Just one hour, to forge a sword. Insultingly short for anyone else. But before the hour was done, Pelt was removing scaling with a single motion, adding a design into the edge of the blade, fitting it to a hilt.<\/p>\n

And when he was done? The sword had only one edge. The steel was polished, and it gleamed like a grey mirror. Beautiful with oil and polish.<\/p>\n

But the red and gold shone like the very edge of the blade dripped with the blood of some magical beast.<\/p>\n

Dragonblood Crystal.<\/em> And Truegold. It was attached to a simple handle with a guard for the hand. And the smith regarded it thoughtfully.<\/p>\n

\u201cA simple piece. I had not the materials for anything greater yet. The edge\u2014the rest of the blade is expendable. But the edge can be fitted again and again. And if treated with care, it shall last a year of war. A decade without. A century if only worn about and carried like a damn heirloom. While it lasts, it will cut down anything it touches. Like so.\u201d<\/p>\n

He turned the blade and brought it down. Erin saw something fall from the anvil.<\/p>\n

The horn.<\/em> The Dwarf sliced again, and another chunk came loose. The crowd gasped<\/em>; the blade was beyond a razor\u2019s edge. Pelt held the blade and Erin saw him smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt will be long before I forge a blade worthy of legends such as I have seen. But for now\u2014this suffices. So. Take it.\u201d<\/p>\n

He stepped out from behind the anvil. Erin saw him walking towards her. She looked around and stepped out of the way. But Pelt followed her. He held the blade in a cloth grip.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t touch the edges, girl. If you lose a finger, I won\u2019t take responsibility for it. Don\u2019t trip either.\u201d<\/p>\n

She blinked. Lyonette gasped<\/em> and Mrsha stared. From where she stood, Maviola\u2019s eyes blazed. The [Mages], the other [Smiths] were silent. Erin looked down at Pelt.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait. Me?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGive it to that damn Goblin with the disgusting piece of metal he calls a sword. Yes, for you. Or did you think we were quits? I don\u2019t forget my debts. This is better than the Grasgil.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] looked at him. At a loss for words. She looked at the beautiful sword.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm. How much is it? I can pay\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone laughed. It was Pelt. He laughed and threw his head back. He looked at Erin, shook his head, and laughed again.<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] stared at him. Then she heard a giggle. Lyonette and<\/em> Mrsha were laughing, the Gnoll silently, Lyonette trying to stifle the noise. Then Erin smiled. She saw the silly humor too. She laughed as well, and hugged Pelt, keeping away from the blade. She kissed his cheek and whispered.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. Don\u2019t stay away from the inn.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou can give me as much free drinks as you want, then.\u201d<\/p>\n

She hugged her silly, grumpy, friend. And he gently hugged her too.<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] took the beautiful blade in a sheath back to the inn. A Hobgoblin got a new sword.<\/p>\n

Just in time for the riots to get markedly worse.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In Invrisil, a mob was marching on Magnolia\u2019s estates. It had taken the [Lords] some doing\u2014to get the crowds to move out of Invrisil and actually march<\/em> to Magnolia\u2019s mansion. Because it was several miles outside of the city, perhaps for that exact reason. Travelling salespeople, thieves, and mobs all had to walk and were conspicuously exposed on the approach.<\/p>\n

But they\u2019d done it. People were angry. Their money was gone.<\/em> Lost to \u2018The Golden Triangle\u2019, which had turned out to be nothing but an idea. Words that stole your money and gave back promises.<\/p>\n

What made them so angry was that the fraud had been exposed\u2014but no one was held to blame. Wistram had ended the illusion. But they hadn\u2019t cleaned up the mess. Now\u2014people wanted to blame someone.<\/p>\n

And why not Magnolia Reinhart? Lord Andel, Lord Ranga, and the other [Lords] had convinced thousands to move out of the city. Now they were marching on Magnolia\u2019s mansion.<\/p>\n

Chanting.<\/p>\n

\u201cGive us our money back!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHold the Merchant\u2019s Guild responsible!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

And so on. It wasn\u2019t one idea. Some wanted the Mage\u2019s Guild to be held to account since their [Messages] had been so instrumental to the scam working. Others blamed the [Merchants], who should have known about all this. Or the Adventurer\u2019s Guild, because of the fake adventuring teams they\u2019d been sold on. And many wanted Magnolia herself to pay them back. She was, after all, rich, and the [Lady] of Invrisil.<\/p>\n

Anger ran in the streets. Desperation. It wasn\u2019t just young men, but mothers, fathers\u2014people who had nothing left because they\u2019d put everything<\/em> into this grand new thing.<\/p>\n

Pain. Well, the Hobgoblin understood that fairly well. Numbtongue sat in the hallway, listening to the crowds passing by The Player\u2019s Retreat<\/em> outside. He knew Erin and the others were in Esthelm; he wasn\u2019t keen on returning, even to watch the Dwarf.<\/p>\n

The memories were too painful there.<\/em> So the Hobgoblin listened to the riot. It sounded like pain to him. The angry voices were angry because<\/em> they\u2019d been hurt.<\/p>\n

Not physically. But money mattered to Humans and other species like blood mattered to Goblins. Numbtongue understood. And didn\u2019t at the same time. He understood from living here that if you lacked money, you could die. Suffer. Money mattered.<\/p>\n

At the same time\u2014they were alive. They had their health. They were angry that something bad had happened. And they expected someone to do something about it.<\/em><\/p>\n

That was what made the [Bard] cynically amused. Darkly furious. What arrogance. He strummed harder on the guitar. If you could be helped by begging<\/em>, Goblins wouldn\u2019t die.<\/p>\n

But that was a very Redfang thought to have. A very Goblin complaint. Numbtongue still felt bad for them, the sad and raging people. That was an Erin-thought. And in between the two emotions he just felt concerned.<\/p>\n

\u201cThousands of people. Could probably kill everyone in that inn.\u201d<\/p>\n

He commented to Drassi. The Drake glanced at him as she checked the door for travellers from other cities. Veeid, the [Innkeeper], turned pale before the door flickered to a view of Liscor.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s pretty dark, Numbtongue.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust saying. No reinforcements on the windows, not enough [Bouncers]. Bad-bad. Needs good hallway like this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShould we be concerned? Listen\u2014there\u2019s protests in Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi pointed. The door was set to Liscor now and both heard angry chanting. But not on the level of the riot. Numbtongue had seen people in Invrisil armed with rocks, sword\u2014even bows. Even city folk had weapons on the level of daggers. Liscor\u2019s crowds were, as yet, unarmed.<\/p>\n

Dismissively, the Hobgoblin adjusted the guitar\u2019s chords.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo problem. Even if Invrisil crowds attack us<\/em>, they have to get through the other inn. Same with Liscor. Then they\u2019re here. Nice hallway. Could probably hold it forever.\u201d<\/p>\n

He approvingly looked around Belgrade\u2019s trapped hallway. If someone held the doors they could take even a thousand people to bits. Their only fear was running out of acid jars and crossbow bolts to shoot through the arrow slits. And Numbtongue had helpfully ordered two thousand more bolts with the inn\u2019s funds.<\/p>\n

The Drake [Gossip] didn\u2019t seem to understand Numbtongue\u2019s satisfaction with a good kill zone. She gave Numbtongue a sidelong look as she switched to Celum.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy will they attack the inn, Numbtongue? They\u2019re mad at other people.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. But this is just in case. Right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh\u2026right?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin went back to playing his guitar. He didn\u2019t like mobs of Humans. If you were caught outside, now\u2014even a hundred Redfangs would eventually die to thousands of angry Humans. Riots were scary things. No one seemed to get that; everyone was behaving normally<\/em>, as if the riot in Invrisil wasn\u2019t bad. But he was concerned, which is why he was sitting here. A few lightning bolts would really help if the mob came calling.<\/p>\n

Or a few [Deathbolts]. Why won\u2019t you take my hand?<\/em><\/p>\n

Reiss sat there. Numbtongue glanced up.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t like you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s hurtful, Numbtongue.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot you, Drassi.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. Excellent.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was more that he was nervous. Numbtongue adjusted his guitar again. Pyrite, now\u2014Pyrite was part of him. Which meant that Numbtongue had all his memories. He could think about thinking\u2014he was a better fighter. And he had an inordinate amount of knowledge about rocks thanks to the memories of the Goldstone Chieftain. That was\u2026fine. Pyrite had been a great Goblin.<\/p>\n

But Reiss? Numbtongue feared what his<\/em> memories, his personalities would do to him. Nevertheless, he hadn\u2019t banished Reiss. The dead Goblin Lord was like a cursed blade. If Numbtongue needed him to defend the inn, he\u2019d take Reiss\u2019 offer. Until then\u2014the Goblin Lord sat patiently.<\/p>\n

Waiting.<\/p>\n

They will never take Magnolia Reinhart\u2019s mansion. My master, Az\u2019kerash, told me about her. The Reinharts have a vast treasury of artifacts hoarded over millennia. She could crush them a hundred times. She also has an alliance with that Dragon.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cMhm. Reinhart scary. Pink knights? Think I could kill one?\u201d<\/p>\n

Numbtongue glanced towards the common room. He hadn\u2019t missed that Lady Bethal, the dangerous Thomast, and those [Knights] kept eying him. Reiss replied thoughtfully.<\/p>\n

Enchanted warriors. You\u2019d suffer. Their armor is top-class. Their Skills and levels\u2014less so. I could. I have. But that [Chevalier] will kill you fast-dead.<\/em><\/p>\n

Pyrite\u2019s memories nudged Numbtongue. The [Knights] and Lady Bethal fighting Rags\u2019 tribe in the forest. <\/em>The [Bard] bared his teeth. He also remembered Pyrite\u2019s conversations with that Ser Kerrig. However, he was disinclined to speak with them himself. Why were they here?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t attack the guests, please, Numbtongue. Lyonette and Erin will have my tail. Hey, anyone coming from Celum? Last call!\u201d<\/p>\n

A Human walked through. He started<\/em> as he saw the Hobgoblin; Drassi reassured him.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s Numbtongue. Read the sign, thank you!\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed to the \u2018No Killing Goblins\u2019 sign. The Human stared at Numbtongue. He waved.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEr\u2026hello?\u201d<\/p>\n

The man shuffled off quickly. Numbtongue went back to playing. Drassi sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wish this could be automated, Numbtongue. I mean\u2014it\u2019s not hard, but every fifteen minutes? Okay, Wailant\u2019s farm. Anyone here? No? Good! Now, Pallass\u2026and then you can go back to watching riots.\u201d<\/p>\n

She switched the dial to the yellow gemstone, and the door shifted<\/em>. The two saw the waiting room, now spruced up with decorations from this morning. And sitting in two of the chairs were\u2014<\/p>\n

Sir Relz and Noass.<\/em> Numbtongue glanced up as the two Drakes jumped<\/em>. They stared at Numbtongue. But then they focused on Drassi.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods! At last! We\u2019ve been waiting!\u201d<\/p>\n

Noass practically shoved his way through the door. Drassi backed up as Sir Relz and a Gnoll assistant holding a scrying mirror hurried through.<\/p>\n

\u201cNoass? Sir Relz?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm? Is that our sports-person? Drassi, is it? Excellent! Transport to Invrisil at once! We can pay. What\u2019s it\u2014eighteen silver for three? Here. Keep the change.\u201d<\/p>\n

Noass fumbled a gold piece into Drassi\u2019s claws. She blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014uh\u2014I can do that. But what\u2019s going on? Invrisil has riots, Mister Noass. I have to warn you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy dear young Drake. That\u2019s precisely why we\u2019re going.<\/em> We just got word. And we\u2019re broadcasting this live!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Sir Relz adjusted his monocle. Noass was rubbing his claws together.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re broadcasting live the moment we go through. Scrying mirror set? How\u2019s things on Wistram\u2019s end?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, Noass. Wistram is preparing to broadcast.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

A voice from the other end. Numbtongue peered around the Gnoll holding the mirror and saw a [Mage] in a room filled with mirrors. The Dullahan jumped.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that a Goblin?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Oh\u2014yes. Numbtongues or whatever. Just part of the inn, Miss Beatrice. Miss Drassi, Invrisil?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014okay. I guess I can let you through. Are you sure, though? There\u2019s a lot of angry Humans.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gossip] hesitated. Both Drakes nodded, impatiently. Numbtongue on the other hand\u2014eyed the mirror.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wouldn\u2019t. Bad idea. You\u2019ll get eaten.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sir Relz and Noass paused. It was, perhaps, the first time the Hobgoblin had ever spoken to them. Or they had acknowledge his presence beyond stares.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Sir Relz peered at Numbtongue. The Hobgoblin had a feeling he was being appraised. He stared up at them from his cross-legged seat.<\/p>\n

\u201cRiots are bad. You\u2019ll get hurt. Or make them worse.\u201d<\/p>\n

He glanced pointedly at the scrying mirror. Noass huffed.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you for the warning, Sir Goblin.<\/em> I think we know what we\u2019re doing, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNope.\u201d<\/p>\n

There was nothing to say to that. The two Drakes glanced at each other, then deliberately turned their heads and pretended Numbtongue didn\u2019t exist.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe door is open. But maybe Erin should\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi glanced at Numbtongue, but the two Drakes pushed through and their Gnoll camerawoman followed them after a moment. Numbtongue sighed. He heard Noass talking rapidly.<\/p>\n

\u201cAre we live? We\u2019re live! Hello, this is Noass coming to you from Invrisil! We\u2019ve just received word there\u2019s a riot happening about The Golden Triangle fraud and Sir Relz and I are giving you the premium, exclusive coverage as-it-happens\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIdiots.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin called through the door. He was rewarded with a spluttering sound and his voice was broadcast, for a moment, worldwide. Drassi covered her mouth in horror.<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue!\u201d<\/p>\n

But then the two Drakes were gone. Numbtongue sighed. He expected them to come back in pieces as he sat there, listening to the riots. But in that way, the [Bard] was wrong. He let Drassi go back to waiting tables and kept playing music. The shouting in the distance didn\u2019t change as Sir Relz and Noass left the inn.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile, the pink Rose Knights and Veeid were fortifying the inn\u2014perhaps due to Numbtongue\u2019s words. Boarding up windows, blocking the back door, and so on. The Hobgoblin watched with one eye, playing song after song to pass the minutes by.<\/p>\n

But he heard the riots moving away from Invrisil. Towards Magnolia\u2019s mansion. He supposed he was wrong; only one [Lady] was in trouble, and if Reiss was correct, not in much trouble at all. He got up, deciding that if it was all-clear, he\u2019d go play on Kevin\u2019s laptop or mine something.<\/p>\n

That was when he heard a worried voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin looked up. He saw Drassi peeking through the door at him. The Hobgoblin tensed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think\u2014you were right. Numbtongue, the riots\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin stood up. He checked the sword at his side\u2014glanced through the door and shut it. Then he realized something.<\/p>\n

The shouting didn\u2019t stop. <\/em>Slowly, he turned his head. The shouting was coming from the other door. The one leading outside. He stared at Drassi.<\/p>\n

\u201cLiscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

She slowly nodded and pointed. Numbtongue followed her. Into the common room. There he saw Lady Bethal, Thomast, and some of the guests staring into a scrying mirror the [Lady] held.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re\u2014we\u2019re seeing the crowds marching on Lady Reinhart\u2019s mansion! There\u2019s fury in the air, right, Sir Relz?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right! People are incensed! And\u2014and rightly so! The devastation this Golden Triangle fraud has brought about is unconscionable! People need to hold someone to account! The question is\u2014stop pushing\u2014is it Magnolia Reinhart?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

The mirror was showing Sir Relz and Noass in the middle of the riot. People were shouting. Screaming. Some\u2014were fighting to shout into the mirror. Numbtongue saw a mass of angry faces. He felt a prickling down his spine.<\/p>\n

The air was electric.<\/em> Even just seeing the mob had an effect. On Numbtongue\u2014it was the prelude to a fight. But that was because he was a Goblin, he had no stake in this matter. In the inn\u2014it was different.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re right. Those bastards at the Mage\u2019s Guild did this!\u201d<\/p>\n

Menolit pounded the table with one fist. The [Veteran] was simmering. And his mood was being echoed and amplified by the scrying orb.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re broadcasting the riots. I hope Magnolia doesn\u2019t deal with them too harshly.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bethal was calm. Unconcerned even by the people moving on the distant mansion. But Thomast had another take. He glanced at the scrying orb, around the room. He noticed Numbtongue, but then looked at the orb.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey shouldn\u2019t be broadcasting this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhyever not, Thomast? It\u2019s topical.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Chevalier] glanced at Menolit\u2019s face. The Drake had lost money to the Golden Triangle. And there was more simmering in the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re making this worse.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Riots were like wildfire. To use a Maviola-expression, the anger spread from person to person. But until now, riots were still contained to a city, a region, a nation at worst. What no one had predicted until now was the effect of something like\u2026the world\u2019s most popular and only news show broadcasting that kind of fury to other disgruntled cities.<\/p>\n

In Liscor, people watched Invrisil\u2019s protests. And the fury there amplified. Spread. If the Humans<\/em> were rioting, well, why in Rhir\u2019s hell shouldn\u2019t we? The fury that had been suppressed by the Watch bubbled up again. And this time it ran hotter.<\/p>\n

Pallass too. Chaldion emerged from the [Healer]\u2019s clinic on a crutch, snapping orders.<\/p>\n

\u201cStop those broadcasts! Someone go to Invrisil now<\/em> and get those two idiots to stop! Send a [Message] to Wistram!\u201d<\/p>\n

Too late. Pallass\u2019 protests on the 5th<\/sup> floor turned ugly so fast Chaldion saw<\/em> the relatively peaceful crowds turn on the Watch. The [Guards] holding back the crowd from the Merchant\u2019s Guild were hit by something. Chaldion saw an explosion, heard screaming\u2014<\/p>\n

Flashpowder Orb. <\/em>Someone had tossed an alchemical weapon. The [Guards] reached for their weapons. Which was a mistake. The instant one of them drew a sword, covering his wounded friends, the crowd reached for their weapons. Chaldion pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Long-Range Command]. [Rapid Retreat]. By my order as Grand Strategist, do not engage the crowd you idiots\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Too late again. Someone leapt forwards. A hothead Garuda with a dagger, brandishing it. Chaldion saw, with his one good eye, a Drake whirling. The Garuda youth was fast, but the [Guard] was quicker. The sword came up\u2014the Garuda blinked. Everyone stared at the sword buried in his gut.<\/p>\n

In the silence, the Grand Strategist cursed. And then\u2014Pallass erupted.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

By the time Erin returned with the sword\u2014things were very bad. An hour, or even a minute could change a lot. And the noise from the city\u2014Liscor\u2014had taken on a bad tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cUh oh. Uh oh. Uh oh.\u201d<\/p>\n

From his tower, Bird saw bad things. He heard bad things. He felt bad things.<\/p>\n

Liscor was on fire.<\/em> He counted seventeen separate sources of smoke. And he heard very many angry people.<\/p>\n

The Antinium Worker saw no birds. That was always a sign. You had to watch<\/em> the Birds. He always told Mrsha this.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Look up. There are probably birds.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 –Bird\u2019s Observation on Birds<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Usually, they flew around the Floodplains, even if they kept out of his range. But right now\u2014everything was hiding. Animals sensed moods. And accordingly\u2014so did Bird.<\/p>\n

It was like an entire Hive of angry people. Bird listened.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014they\u2019re fighting with the Watch! Erin, what\u2019s that sword\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

From his tower, he heard Drassi\u2019s voice. Bird was always in his tower. That did not mean he saw or heard nothing. In fact, he often saw and heard more than everyone else. Just from a different perspective.<\/p>\n

\u201cBad, bad. Uh oh. You stay here.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Workers who had been helping make his tower looked at Bird. The [Bird Hunter] waved at them.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo going to the Hive. It\u2019s bad-bad in the city.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBad, Hunter Bird?\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the Workers looked at Bird. The communication between them was\u2014odd. Workers didn\u2019t usually ask questions. But these ones had been at Erin\u2019s inn. They had experienced luxuries like time off,<\/em> snacks,<\/em> and so on. Bird nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cBad. <\/em>Stay here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe may use the secret passages, Hunter Bird.\u201d<\/p>\n

The same Worker pointed out, speaking for the others. Bird looked at him. The [Hunter] shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Silly Worker. Be sh\u2014be quiet. <\/em>That is not the point.\u201d<\/p>\n

They looked at him. Bird glanced around, counting.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou stay. So we can fight. <\/em>If needed.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Workers went still. Bird remembered other Workers. An inn under siege. Right now\u2014he felt the same tension in the air. But instead of undead\u2014it was Drakes and Gnolls. All of them turned towards the city. Bird whispered.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan you feel it?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

They looked at him. Bird\u2019s antennae were waving rapidly. He turned his head. He could hear Erin below, demanding answers of Drassi. Other people\u2014Lyonette telling Mrsha to go into the garden again. But his senses reached beyond sight, smell, hearing. He looked towards Liscor.<\/p>\n

\u201cBad things are happening. To us.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

What did people in Liscor have to be angry about? So many things.<\/p>\n

Monster attacks. The Golden Triangle. The damn sewer stench. But that was just backdrop. There was more.<\/p>\n

The Antinium. The Humans coming into their city. Goblins. <\/em>Some people didn\u2019t care. But Liscor\u2019s election had been fraught. And of late\u2014the Human population had swelled. The Antinium\u2019s true numbers in their Hive had been exposed and Lism had run on a campaign of distrust.<\/p>\n

It just took angry people. People who had lost gold. People who really didn\u2019t like Antinium.<\/em><\/p>\n

There had been mobs on the day The Golden Triangle fell apart. But the Watch had suppressed them fairly effectively. Now, though\u2014they looked at the images of Invrisil and when they took to the streets this time, the people were armed.<\/p>\n

\u201cDisperse back to your homes! This is an unlawful gathering!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Watch Captain Zevara bellowed as a line of [Guards] advanced. It wasn\u2019t martial law\u2014yet. But the armed crowd had converged on the Mage\u2019s Guild and the Council had ordered her to protect the building.<\/p>\n

A hundred [Guards] blocked the streets. More were surrounding the Merchant\u2019s Guild, other sources of fury. The crowd shouted; some people threw rocks, bricks; there was a surplus of ammunition with the new district under construction.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold ranks! No one is to return fire!\u201d<\/p>\n

Zevara shouted at the Watch hiding behind shields and barricades. She wasn\u2019t about to risk a clash. And indeed\u2014the crowd wasn\u2019t about to charge a line of [Guards]. Zevara saw people milling about. Her eyes narrowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are they doing? Are they pulling back\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

That was when she saw the first smokestack rising. And she realized\u2014<\/p>\n

No crowd of people attacked a line of [Guards]. They weren\u2019t mad. They were<\/em> furious. And since the Watch was guarding this street\u2014the riot just moved to the next street.<\/p>\n

Market Street began to burn.<\/em> Zevara\u2019s head snapped up as the first report came in.<\/p>\n

\u201cWatch Captain! They\u2019re torching buildings!\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cResidential apartments! Places where members of The Golden Triangle were!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Watch Captain cursed.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet me a squad of high-level [Guards]. We\u2019re taking everyone who was part of The Golden Triangle under protective custody! Move!\u201d<\/p>\n

Then she had a thought. Relc.<\/em> Zevara turned her head. She left her line of [Guards] behind. Took a squad of forty into the city.<\/p>\n

The first thing she saw was Humans on the street. Refugees from Celum\u2014fleeing. They\u2019d been evicted from their homes. Then Zevara passed by a burned shop front.<\/p>\n

\u201cA member of The Golden Triangle. Find them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jeiss took a second squad. The Councilmember had left the rest of the Council in City Hall. Zevara ordered her [Guards] to speed up.<\/p>\n

They came upon the first mob attacking another target. The Drakes and Gnolls saw Zevara\u2019s squad coming around the street and fled. She saw a shape lying on the ground. The Watch Captain pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cGuards! Arrest that group!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Guards] pursued\u2014but the mob was too fast. They just ran. And Zevara saw the shape on the ground huddled into a ball. She approached. And saw blood. But not red.<\/p>\n

Green ichor. <\/em>The Worker lay on the ground. He had tried to protect himself, but without fighting back. He\u2019d managed to shield his face, body\u2014from the worst of the kicks and blows. But his antennae were torn off.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cHealer!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Zevara shouted. She approached the Worker.<\/p>\n

\u201cWorker. Hello. Are you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Antinium jerked away from her. The Worker scuttled away, running. Zevara turned. Her view of the mob changed again.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re going after the Humans and Antinium. As well as members of The Golden Triangle.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWatch Captain? We lost the mob. What order, Watch Captain?\u201d<\/p>\n

A [Guard] panted, coming back from chasing the crowd. Zevara hesitated. Her instinct was to tell them to fan out, secure any Workers and escort them back to the Hive now <\/em>along with the Humans. But then she heard a roar.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo more outsiders! No more lies!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

A distant shout. Magnified hundreds of times. Zevara and her small squad looked about. They saw torches, armed Drakes and Gnolls. They filled the street, some hurling objects. Others were taking advantage of the confusion to loot shops.<\/p>\n

Here they came.<\/em> The squad of forty saw a flood of angry people coming at them. Zevara didn\u2019t even pause to think.<\/p>\n

\u201cBack to the Mage\u2019s Guild! Move!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Watch retreated. The mob spotted them and broke into a run. There was no individual person there\u2014who might respect the Watch, know a few [Guards] personally. It was just angry people whose every grudge was out in the open. The Watch retreated. The injured Worker hid in an alley.<\/p>\n

Bird felt the Worker\u2019s fear.<\/em><\/p>\n

So too did the Free Queen. And Xrn. In the Hive, Yellow Splatters looked up as the first Workers began to flee into the Hive. Pawn ran for them and saw the blood.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erin had thought it was bad before. Now\u2014it was worse.<\/p>\n

Pelt\u2019s sword was almost an afterthought as she returned to The Wandering Inn and found that things had escalated<\/em> without her knowing. The Invrisil broadcast had lit sparks. For once, Maviola\u2019s analogies were appropriate.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re kicking out Humans. Attacking Workers.<\/em> But they\u2019re mostly after members of The Golden Triangle. I should have stopped Noass and Sir Relz! I just thought they were going to report what was happening! But people saw the riots in Invrisil and\u2014it got bad, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi was panting. She\u2019d gone into Liscor but fled after only a few minutes. Ishkr was missing. He\u2019d been allowed to go home early.<\/p>\n

But that was a bad thing, now. Numbtongue was inspecting his new sword. He grunted.<\/p>\n

\u201cInn\u2019s safe. No one else. Don\u2019t go into hallway.\u201d<\/p>\n

He sat by the door to the common room. Ironically, the magic door had been moved to the common room. The danger wasn\u2019t something coming through there\u2014it was a mob converging on the inn. Erin looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s Zevara doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHolding parts of the city. Economic districts, the Watch House\u2014only a few streets. There aren\u2019t enough [Guards].\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi answered for Erin. The [Innkeeper] looked askance.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about the rest of the city? She has to protect the Workers! People are attacking them?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Bird had come down from his tower. He had brought his bow. He was, Erin realized, handing out crossbows to the other Workers. She saw Numbtongue nodding.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. What are you two doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

Both Worker and Goblin looked at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cPreparing.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFor a riot? No. We\u2019re not killing people. We can still do something. Maviola. You have your aura! I have [Crowd Control].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be an idiot. You can\u2019t control a riot. Even a [Queen] hides when the mob marches on her palace!\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola snapped. Erin shook her head. She looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cPalt! <\/em>Get over here! And my lanterns! Where are they?\u201d<\/p>\n

She had an idea.<\/em> The [Innkeeper] marched into the kitchen. When she came back\u2014she was holding something.<\/p>\n

The cold-fire lantern. Maviola eyed it.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is that?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDepressing fire. Palt\u2014come with me. Montressa, Beza, do you know any spells like Palt?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Centaur [Illusionist] looked up. So did Montressa and Bezale. They blinked to be addressed by Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cUs? Well\u2014sure. But why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re going into Liscor. To stop the riots. Palt, you know [Calm], right. Can\u2019t you cast it on\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin waved her hand at the door. The Centaur frowned worriedly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have a lot of spells, Erin. But mass mind-control spells aren\u2019t<\/em> a good idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t want you to control them. I just want you to stop them from attacking<\/em> people. I\u2019ll use this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin opened the shutter of her lantern. Maviola shaded her eyes as the depressing, cold flame washed over her. Montressa shuddered.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, that\u2019s\u2014wait, you\u2019re going into Liscor?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. And you\u2019re coming too.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin. This is not<\/em> a good idea.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lyonette began. But the [Innkeeper] whirled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI should\u2019ve tried this on Invrisil\u2019s riots. Palt, Montressa, Beza\u2014Maviola? Uh\u2014Lady Bethal?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] looked up blankly from where she sat with Thomast. Maviola just shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. Absolutely not. Erin, your Skills aren\u2019t going to work like you think.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat am I supposed to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cStay here!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Half the inn chorused. Palt shook his head as he trotted over.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin. Even the Elusive Lot would have trouble with this. I don\u2019t think\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He halted as Erin turned to face him.<\/p>\n

\u201cPalt. I need your help. Please help me. Montressa\u2014Beza. Please.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Wistram Mages looked at each other. Doubt was written across their faces. But after a second, Beza nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cBetter than sitting around.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBeza!\u201d<\/p>\n

Montressa looked worried, but Erin took that. She yanked the door open.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s go!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin! This isn\u2019t a good\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Lyonette didn\u2019t reach Erin in time. Something slowed<\/em> her on the way to the door. Maviola cursed; of all the times for Erin to learn\u2014<\/p>\n

Beza strode after Erin and then Palt and Montressa followed. Erin found herself in the streets, suddenly surrounded by noise. She looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. Okay\u2014let\u2019s do this.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin. This really isn\u2019t going to w\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Aegiscaster] was cut off by Palt. He blocked her with one hand. Erin wasn\u2019t listening. She had<\/em> to do this. She\u2019d caused crowds to appear. She could force them to stop, right?<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t hard to find the mob. Erin just had to follow the shouting.<\/p>\n

She found them outside of City Hall. A group of Drakes was surrounding the lines of [Guards], throwing things at the building. A few had made primitive firebombs out of alcohol or alchemical items. Or just oil.<\/p>\n

\u201cStay back!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Senior Guardswoman Beilmark was leading the [Guards] holding the doors. They weren\u2019t advancing and the crowd wasn\u2019t getting closer. They were chanting, Erin heard.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo Lizards! No Lizards!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGive us the Minotaur!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin\u2019s blood ran cold when she heard that. She counted; there were hundreds filling the square. The [Mages] looked worriedly at each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a lot of\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Palt raised a finger to his lips. He pulled out a black cigar, but didn\u2019t light it. Montressa du Valeross watched as Erin Solstice surveyed the crowds.<\/p>\n

Montressa liked Erin. Despite it all. The [Innkeeper] was extraordinary, besides her nature as someone from Earth. She was the most accomplished, highest-level Earthworlder that Montressa knew of. She was also\u2014insane.<\/p>\n

Not just about this. She made friends with Goblins, liked the Antinium\u2014<\/em>but she had the same kind of mad genius that some of Wistram\u2019s best [Mages] had. Montressa could respect that. But in this\u2014Erin was over her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. Cast [Calm] and spells when I start talking. Got it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not going to work.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Montressa\u2019s voice went unheard. Erin didn\u2019t understand! The [Mage] looked at Palt; he should know more than anyone!<\/p>\n

Mass-control spells existed. [Mass Calm], for instance\u2014Montressa knew it. But her lessons in illusion magic told her this was not<\/em> the crowd to try it on.<\/p>\n

Then again\u2014this was Erin Solstice. The [Innkeeper] strode forwards. The Crazy Human of Liscor raised her lantern.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Her voice was louder than the crowd\u2019s. They turned. They saw the blue flame. The young woman concentrated.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you all doing? Who\u2019s killing Calruz? Who\u2019s attacking Workers?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drakes and Gnolls turned. They saw her. Erin Solstice. The flames washed over them and they faltered. Montressa heard the chanting falter.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe flame.\u201d<\/p>\n

She breathed. She remembered<\/em> it. What a dirty trick! But she remembered Erin\u2019s instructions.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Mass Calm].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c[Calm]. [Calm].\u201d<\/p>\n

Beza was casting the spell on individuals. Montressa saw a group of twenty lower their weapons. She grimaced. This was not<\/em> her forte. Then she heard Palt murmur.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Calming Winds].\u201d<\/p>\n

The Tier 4 spell conjured a breeze. Montressa felt her own<\/em> heart beating slower as the wind blew. For a moment\u2014before her natural spell resistance took over\u2014she felt herself draining of the worry, the fear and anxiety\u2014<\/p>\n

And Erin was speaking. She waved the lantern. The saddening fire burned bright.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey! Listen. Who\u2019s attacking Hexel? He\u2019s my guest! And Calruz? This isn\u2019t right. I know you all! You know me! Who\u2019s angry at Humans? The Antinium aren\u2019t bad! Let\u2019s all just put down our rocks and stuff, okay? I know you\u2019re mad. But\u2026why don\u2019t we go to my inn? Free drinks! Free cookies!\u201d<\/p>\n

The crowd stared at her. The [Mages] kept casting; Montressa saw faces slackening. Staring at Erin. She saw Erin smiling.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s play some football!<\/em> Hey\u2014hey, Palt. We\u2019ll get Joseph and Kevin to set it up. A few tactical sports games and everyone will forget about this.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned her head. The Centaur glanced past her. He had the black cigar in his mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe. But Erin\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHey everyone! Let\u2019s play some soccer instead of smashing things, huh?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] turned back and shouted at the crowd. Her cheerful voice rang out. And Montressa felt something snap.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cSoccer?\u201d<\/p>\n

A Drake near Erin blinked. He passed a claw over his face. And Montressa saw\u2014Beza\u2019s [Calm] spell fading from him. He looked at Erin. She smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. Free drinks, soccer\u2014what about it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The bronze-scaled Drake looked at Erin. Just\u2014uncomprehendingly. He stared around. And then his brows crossed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWill soccer pay for my rent? I have no more money.<\/em> What am I supposed to do? I won\u2019t have a home <\/em>in a week.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin\u2019s smile faltered.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2014that\u2019s bad. But breaking things doesn\u2019t solve anything. Let\u2019s all calm down.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake was breathing heavily. Montressa pointed at him.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Calm].\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

But it didn\u2019t work. Illusions spells lost their potency the more you used them in rapid succession. The Drake\u2019s eyes flickered. Then he stared at the flame. In Erin\u2019s lantern.<\/p>\n

He was quicker on the draw. And Erin was being far less subtle about it than when she\u2019d used it on Montressa and Beza.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you doing? That fire\u2014what\u2019s that? You\u2014you think everything\u2019s going to be better if I have a drink and eat a cookie?<\/em> And kick a stupid damn ball around?\u201d<\/p>\n

The other Gnolls and Drakes started. Montressa felt sweat running down her back. She heard Palt muttering.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Fog of Apathy]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

This time mists began to coalesce. Dampening emotion. And it worked\u2014but more and more people were beginning to notice. They pinched each other, gritted their teeth.<\/p>\n

And the air became electric. <\/em>A Gnoll stared at the fire. And then at Erin. He focused on Palt and spoke.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re using spells<\/em> on us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin\u2019s face froze. The murmur was muted. People blinked. And then\u2014they all realized it at once. Erin Solstice raised her lantern.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen to me\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The blue flame went out.<\/em> The [Innkeeper] stared at it in horror. Palt\u2019s fog tore to wisps and dissipated. Montressa felt her spells fizzling out. She couldn\u2019t even cast<\/em> [Calm]. In a moment, the air grew hot.<\/p>\n

Beilmark cursed as she saw the crowd swing around. Erin Solstice stood there. She focused<\/em>. Trying to make the others calm. She concentrated\u2014<\/p>\n

The dam burst.<\/em> The Drake screamed in fury. He ran at Erin, a fist raised. Erin dropped the lantern. She was faster. She decked him.<\/p>\n

[Minotaur Punch]. The Drake went sprawling. The crowd stared at Erin. The [Innkeeper] looked around. Montressa was backing up.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cKill them.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The roar came from dozens of voices. And the mob rushed forwards. If they had been angry before\u2014the calming spells had doubled their fury. Now they tore forwards at Erin\u2014and<\/em> City Hall.<\/p>\n

\u201cGuards! Hold them back! Clubs only! No blades!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Beilmark snarled. The [Guards] had a chokepoint. But Erin and the [Mages] were on the streets.<\/p>\n

They ran. Erin just stared for a second in horror as her plan backfired. The first rank of the mob came for her, reaching, cursing\u2014<\/p>\n

They smashed<\/em> into a barrier in the air. Montressa raised her staff.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat won\u2019t hold them for long! Run!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn, damn\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Beza grabbed Erin. The [Innkeeper] turned and ran. Palt was already pointing.<\/p>\n

\u201cBack to the inn!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

All three [Mages] ran. They had ten seconds before Montressa\u2019s [Forcewall] failed and the crowd streamed after them. It could have blocked multiple [Fireballs], but the sea of people pounding on it was just as effective. Erin had dropped her lantern. She ran\u2014but Gnolls and Drakes were in the crowd. Only Palt was faster than them.<\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Montressa saw someone leaping at her. She raised her staff; a wall of stone knocked the Drake flat. The others just boiled around them. They had bows!<\/em> Erin saw Beza stagger as something hit her. A brick!<\/p>\n

\u201cStop! I said\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not going to work. Get behind me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Palt turned. The three passed him. Erin turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cPalt!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Centaur stared at the mob. Slowly, he lit the black cigar. Black smoke rose from it. He inhaled so hard nearly half of it ashed in a moment. Then he exhaled.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201c[Volcanic Smokescreen].<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Black smoke rushed forwards.<\/em> The entire street was consumed in an instant. Erin heard panicked voices, screams as people collided. She slowed\u2014Palt turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cRun!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

He galloped past her. Erin didn\u2019t understand why at first. Then\u2014she saw the first high-level member of the mob racing out of the smoke.<\/p>\n

A furious Drake with a block of wood in one claw. She didn\u2019t know his class until he tossed the log of wood. Then she realized.<\/p>\n

He was a [Thrower]\u2014<\/p>\n

Montressa\u2019s barrier blocked the block of wood before it hit Erin\u2019s face. The piece of wood exploded<\/em>. The sound was like a thunderclap. The Drake cursed, picked up a stone.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Stone Dart]. Run!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Beza pointed. The stone bullet hit the Drake in the chest and he vanished into the cloud. But more people were coming out of the smoke.<\/p>\n

This time all of them ran. They went for the door. Erin was gasping, clutching at her side and Beza was shouting for Montressa to run faster.<\/em> The [Aegiscaster] gasped.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Haste]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

She sped up. Erin ran for the open door. She saw Palt urging them through.<\/p>\n

\u201cHurry! Get through! Get\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyes widened. He pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Air Sh\u2014]\u201d<\/p>\n

The brick hit him in the chest. Erin saw the Centaur hit the ground. She turned around.<\/p>\n

The mob was on them in a second. Someone yanked Erin off her feet. She punched a snarling face, heard Montressa shouting.<\/p>\n

\u201cPalt! <\/em>[Five-Fold\u2014]\u201d<\/p>\n

Her voice ended in a strangled noise as something hit her. Beza rose. Of them all, the Minotauress was fastest.<\/p>\n

[Iron Skin]. [Haste]\u2014she laid about her, knocking people off her feet. She grabbed Montressa and was covering Palt as he struggled to rise. Erin was surrounded. She felt someone yanking <\/em>at her hair.<\/p>\n

\u201cStop!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She hit someone else. [Minotaur Punch]. Then Erin\u2019s hand was on her kitchen knife.<\/p>\n

A claw raked her down the side of her face. The [Innkeeper] felt the burning pain. She closed her eyes.<\/p>\n

No, please no.<\/em><\/p>\n

She drew the deadly blade. Erin felt the air grow hot. Then\u2014the person holding her burst into flames.<\/p>\n

She heard screams. The air turned to fire.<\/em> Erin froze, blade ready to stab. She saw people stumbling back. Then she heard something else<\/p>\n

\u201c[Fast Fireball].\u201d<\/p>\n

A [Lady] pointed. From her finger a [Fireball] spun up, a bolt of fire. It detonated<\/em> just over the heads of the crowd. They all ducked<\/em>. Maviola pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cBurn.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Her aura reached out and a Drake was covered in flames. Shouting, screaming in alarm, the crowd backed up. They grabbed for Erin\u2014still enraged. Someone seized her\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201c[Power Strike].\u201d<\/p>\n

Pyrite kicked the Gnoll into the air. He grabbed Erin, grunted.<\/p>\n

\u201cBad idea. Let\u2019s go.\u201d<\/p>\n

He towed Erin back. She saw a blur\u2014another [Lady] stood at the door. Bethal and Thomast, his sword drawn. Palt, Montressa, Beza\u2014Maviola was last. She slammed the door shut <\/em>as her fire winked out.<\/p>\n

\u201cChange the dial.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lyonette swiveled the dial and the sound cut off. Erin lay in the hallway, panting. The other [Mages] collapsed. Numbtongue blinked as Pyrite vanished. Maviola stood there. Her dress wasn\u2019t even singed by the fire she\u2019d called forth. She looked around, counting, and then stared at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat.<\/em> Is how you use an aura. You cannot stop a riot with just spells.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot at our level. It was worth a shot. I\u2019m bleeding.\u201d<\/p>\n

Palt groaned. Erin rose.<\/p>\n

\u201cPalt? Are you\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Centaur looked up at Erin. His chest was torn open. Lyonette bent.<\/p>\n

\u201cA potion. You\u2019re bleeding. Erin\u2014your face.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] had been raked across her face. She let Numbtongue apply a bit of potion. Then she stood there.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry. I thought\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Her confidence was gone. She\u2019d thought she could stop them. She knew<\/em> Liscor\u2019s people. But that had been\u2014Erin looked around. Montressa wouldn\u2019t meet her eyes. Beza shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNever in the House of Minos. Madness.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI thought that might happen. But it was worth a shot. A lesson.\u201d<\/p>\n

Palt shakily got to his hooves. He looked around. Maviola nodded at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour plan was flawed. I told<\/em> you, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Her gaze was accusatory. Erin wilted.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. Yeah.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a good effort. Wuvren might have done it, with help. She can charm a crowd. I have seen it done. My mother once halted a riot.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lady Bethal spoke distantly. She looked at Erin. The [Innkeeper] inhaled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI guess I can\u2019t. Okay. Okay\u2026Numbtongue? Thank you. Maviola, thank you. Palt\u2014I\u2019m so sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are allies for? Let alone friends? My Master would be disappointed in me. I should have prepared [Invisibility], but that\u2019s hard to cast in quick succession.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Illusionist] grinned weakly. Erin stood there. She rubbed at her face.<\/p>\n

\u201cI understand now. I guess\u2026Lyonette? Is Mrsha in the garden?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlong with the beavers and Apista. Should we go there too?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice looked at the [Princess]. Blankly. Then she shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet. How many people are in the inn, Lyonette?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFeels like\u2026eighty. The Players of Celum\u2026the [Knights]? Lady Bethal, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s correct. They\u2019re in Invrisil.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] was watching Erin. Not without sympathy. The [Innkeeper] had blood on her face. Erin looked around. She rubbed at her face.<\/p>\n

\u201cPalt. Beza. Montressa. I owe you one. But I might need another favor. We should\u2014pass out those crossbows. Loaded.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola stirred. Lyonette slowly looked at Numbtongue.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlready done. Bird\u2019s in his tower.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI doubt the mob will come for the inn. It\u2019s too far, Erin. They might, but your inn\u2019s sturdy. They\u2019ll turn their anger elsewhere.\u201d<\/p>\n

Palt panted. Erin blinked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe. Either way\u2014can we get the [Knights] in here, Bethal?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI could\u2014order a handful here. But Invrisil is also enduring a riot, even if most are headed towards Magnolia\u2019s estate.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] exchanged a glance with the [Chevalier]. She nodded slowly, looking faintly\u2026disappointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly naturally. I shall give the order.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood. Numbtongue, Beza\u2014is Pallass bad too?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. But Chaldion\u2019s declared martial law. We opened the door to check.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lyonette looked at Erin. The [Innkeeper] set her jaw.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe\u2026okay. Numbtongue, Beza\u2014Palt, Montressa\u2014I\u2019d be grateful if you helped.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAbsolutely, but Erin, your inn is secure.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The others looked at the [Innkeeper]. She was going overboard. Erin looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know that. But I need those [Knights]. How many. Six? Plus Numbtongue, Beza, me, Palt, Montressa\u2014Maviola?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin Solstice. What are you doing?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cIshkr\u2019s in that mess. So is Ekirra, Visma\u2014the Workers. What about Selys? She\u2019s at the Adventurer\u2019s Guild.\u201d<\/p>\n

The others looked at her. Lyonette opened her mouth furiously.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll grab the door and move it. And check.<\/em> Or should we leave them?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ll be torn apart! Didn\u2019t that teach you anything?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] gave Lyonette a flat look. The [Princess] wavered. Slowly, Erin walked over to her emergency box. Saliss had given her many potions. And she\u2019d bought more from Octavia. Erin picked up a bag of Tripvines and checked it.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes, Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Centaur looked at Erin. Not with the exasperation written on Maviola\u2019s face, but a calm look. Even expectantly. Erin glanced at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow many people can you cast [Invisibility] on at once?\u201d<\/p>\n

Numbtongue glanced at Erin. The Hobgoblin\u2019s eyes lit up. And Palt smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s find out.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It was all reaching a critical point. Yellow Splatters stared at the Workers flooding into the Hive. Many were hurt. They\u2019d been attacked by the mobs on the streets. Those that had been closest to the Hive had fled.<\/p>\n

Some hadn\u2019t made it. Some were alive. Xrn calmly stared upwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey are hurt. Some will die.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSome have died.\u201d<\/p>\n

Pawn whispered. He knelt over a Worker, clasped his hands. The Worker\u2019s torn antennae stumps healed. But the missing appendages did not. The Worker stopped shaking\u2014reached up. Pawn clasped his hands with two of his.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am so sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is not your<\/em> fault.\u201d<\/p>\n

Xrn\u2019s eyes were black. She looked above. Yellow Splatters clenched and unclenched his hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey have turned on the Antinium.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. What did you expect?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Antinium didn\u2019t know what to say. The Free Queen however, remembered.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt has happened again. So once, when we first settled in Liscor. Now again. Abide.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Her command came through their mental link. The Antinium\u2014shuddered. Yellow Splatters disagreed. He looked at Xrn.<\/p>\n

\u201cPrognugator. Those Workers are innocent.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Small Queen heard the anger in his voice. She looked around at the silent Painted Antinium, bearing witness. Xrn smiled. Fury and light in her eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. So what will you do?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The riot had reached Magnolia\u2019s mansion thirty minutes ago. Now\u2014the mansion was under siege. Lord Alman saw people trying to scale the walls. Break down the flimsy-looking metal bars on the gates.<\/p>\n

Unfortunately\u2014of all the riots occurring in the world, this was the least<\/em> successful. Those two wretched Drakes were reporting on it.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014hearing reports of riots from Pallass! Ancestors! Should we go back, Sir Relz?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI think so, Noass. The protests here have hit a standstill. As you can see\u2014the people cannot even get into<\/em> the mansion. And from what we understand\u2014Lady Magnolia Reinhart doesn\u2019t even appear to be in residence! Something of an embarrassment, yes?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Alman glowered at them. Drakes.<\/em> But they were right. He saw someone trying to climb over the walls of Magnolia\u2019s mansion. The man got to the top of the low-flung wall\u2014and the air shimmered. He was casually knocked off the wall and into the crowd below.<\/p>\n

\u201cEnsorcelled walls. Even the damn gates.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga was cursing, his face pale. A team of people were hauling<\/em> on the gates, having attached ropes to them. But a team of two hundred couldn\u2019t so much as make them budge.<\/p>\n

Magic.<\/em> The high-quality kind. The [Lords] sat together, feeling foolish. The mob was growing restless. They had gamely tried to draw Magnolia out. But a [Maid] had appeared and told them she wasn\u2019t even here.<\/em><\/p>\n

Worse\u2014the people weren\u2019t trying that<\/em> hard to enter anymore. Mainly because they had spotted something that made even the angriest rioter pause.<\/p>\n

A sixteen foot tall Steel Golem. <\/em>It was armed with sword and shield. And it was just\u2014standing at the gates. Not just one, either.<\/p>\n

The tall War Golems weren\u2019t the same as the ancient ones Magnolia had used on the Goblin Lord. But that was like saying a Gold-rank adventurer wasn\u2019t as bad as a Named-rank. Lord Alman started sweating just imagining trying to fight one without an army.<\/p>\n

\u201cRanga. I think it\u2019s clear that this is a disaster. We should go.\u201d<\/p>\n

Alman spoke intensely. Ranga hesitated. He clenched his fists on his reins as his horse danced nervously.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re so close! This is on the scrying orb!\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the other [Lords] was actually giving an interview to the two Drakes, talking about the unfair [Trade War]. But Alman was more and more convinced this wasn\u2019t a good look for his House. He shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m minded to leave myself, Ranga.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlman! We\u2019re in this together!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI apologize. But frankly, I don\u2019t see the point of\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lords] heard a roar.<\/em> They spun, hands on weapons. And then they saw it.<\/p>\n

At last. A pink carriage shooting down the road. The crowd stared. Then they surged forwards. The [Lords] wavered. Then they spurred their horses.<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia Reinhart!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The roar was fury. Noass and Sir Relz spun, and the camera-Gnoll raised her device.<\/p>\n

There she was.<\/em> The pink carriage raced towards the mansion as if the driver wasn\u2019t even aware of the crowd. They were spreading out, angry people with ropes, weapons. Ready to slow the carriage\u2014<\/p>\n

When it slowed. But it didn\u2019t<\/em> slow. The carriage moved faster than any horse in the world. Everyone knew its reputation. A bandit-killing vehicle on the road. But Magnolia Reinhart wasn\u2019t crazy. She could see\u2014<\/p>\n

It didn\u2019t slow down. <\/em>The angry sea of people wavered. They began to turn. Now trying to get out of the way. Just in case\u2014<\/p>\n

The carriage raced at them. People screamed. Lord Alman\u2019s blood turned cold. She wasn\u2019t going to\u2014<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cDead gods! Noass! Are you getting this? She\u2019s going to ram\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

At the last moment, the carriage\u2019s wheels glowed. It rose upwards, and shot over the heads of the crowd screaming in horror. Everyone fell silent.<\/p>\n

They stared at the flying magical pink carriage as it casually flew over the gates of the mansion, the mob, and landed on the other side. Lord Alman\u2019s jaw dropped. Ranga turned pale.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt can fly?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014Er. Of course, anyone familiar with the specifications of the carriage would recall that\u2014but it appears Magnolia Reinhart is there herself!\u201d<\/p>\n

Sir Relz recovered. He pointed.<\/p>\n

And there she was.<\/em> Magnolia Reinhart. The doors opened\u2014<\/p>\n

And a grumpy half-Elf emerged. Everyone stared at Teriarch, or Grand Mage Eldavin, as he kicked his way out of the carriage.<\/p>\n

\u201cInfernal magical devices. This one feels slower than it used to be. I\u2019m going to rest.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dragon grumpily walked out of the carriage, addressing the person inside. Magnolia Reinhart herself. He hadn\u2019t noticed the crowd. Indeed, it was only as he was walking across the grounds when he heard their roars of fury.<\/p>\n

The Dragon stopped. Perplexed, he looked around. Rubbed at one ear.<\/p>\n

Then he saw them.<\/em><\/p>\n

He stood there and saw the angry mob approaching the gates. The Dragon heard their furious shouts.<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia Reinhart! Come out!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGive us our money!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lord]\u2019s voices were mixed with that of the protest as they tried to ride through the throngs of people who weren\u2019t willing to part for them. The Dragon blinked. He stared at the furious faces and then at the [Lady] emerging from the carriage with Ressa.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is this, then?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMm. It appears to be an angry mob.\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia Reinhart herself hadn\u2019t known about the riot until recently. She\u2019d had difficulty extricating herself from Lady Edere\u2019s company at the Sanito House. Now\u2014she wished she\u2019d never left. She stood there, looking at the angry crowds.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh. Ressa, how disappointing. Do you see? So that is where Lord Alman was.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. And several [Lords] of the realm.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Head Maid] surveyed the crowd without fear. More people were trying to climb the gates, or bring them down. Without success; they could hit the barriers all day.<\/p>\n

The two women were calm. Even if Magnolia was annoyed. She tapped her lips, just surveying the crowd.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow disappointing.<\/em> And I suppose\u2014ah, yes. I even see those two Drakes. So that<\/em> is why half the cities in Izril are suddenly rioting.\u201d<\/p>\n

She\u2019d been perplexed by the reports. Now it made sense. Magnolia Reinhart\u2019s eyes narrowed. But the effect on Teriarch was far more immediate.<\/p>\n

The Dragon turned to look at the mob. Magnolia saw his face harden. Turn bitter. She glanced at Ressa, worriedly. Then she saw the Dragon\u2019s shoulders slump. He looked at the gates, at the people pounding on it, demanding Magnolia to come out.<\/p>\n

\u201cAs I understand it. You did nothing about this Golden Triangle nonsense, Magnolia?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Teriarch. I rather think this mob has been persuaded to call on me to demand their money back. By the [Lords].\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dragon nodded. He bowed his head. Magnolia clenched her fists. Of all the times! He had been perfectly happy this morning. But now\u2014she saw a shadow cross his face.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour subjects, Reinhart. See how quickly they turn to drag you down? That is the nature of people. Devouring. Thoughtless<\/em>. How will you deal with them?\u201d<\/p>\n

He judged them harshly. With weary cynicism. How many protests had he lived through? Magnolia\u2019s lips thinned.<\/p>\n

The shouted insults and jeers didn\u2019t affect her as much as the Dragon. She spoke, crisply.<\/p>\n

\u201cI should usually let them bang on the gates until they go home. But since this crowd would have never come here but for those [Lords]\u2014I rather think I should grant them the audience they desire. Ressa?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs milady wishes.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Maid] smiled. Or her lips did something equivalent. Teriarch looked at them. He snorted once. Turned away.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo as you will. I find myself too tired to deal with this. I will watch.\u201d<\/p>\n

He walked over to the mansion, the spring out of his step suddenly. Exhausted. Magnolia looked at him and then turned to the gates. Her eyes narrowed. Oh yes. Someone was going to pay.<\/em><\/p>\n

This was how she greeted them. The [Lady] swept forwards in her shockingly, affrontingly pink dress. The crowd grew louder as Magnolia approached the gates. Like a beehive sensing the intruder.<\/p>\n

Magnolia Reinhart waved an elegant hand as the [Lords] and [Commentators] fought forwards. She spoke, brightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood evening, ladies and g\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone threw a rock. Well, a lot of people threw things as she came into range. They bounced off the shimmering force field in the air. Magnolia sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me? I say, might I have a\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe want our money back! Stop this [Trade War]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Voices roared at her. Magnolia waved a hand, but the noise was overwhelming. She shrugged. And brought her foot down.<\/p>\n

\u201cSilence.<\/em>\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

A shockwave rippled through the crowd. Noise stopped. Teriarch sighed; the only sound in the sudden hush. Magnolia Reinhart stood there, calmly looking from face to face.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s better. Now, good evening<\/em> to you all. What, may I ask, has brought you all here?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lips moved. But something was holding the shouts of fury down. Some of the higher-leveled members of the crowd could speak, though. Magnolia heard a voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Golden Triangle. We want reimbursement!\u201d<\/p>\n

She stared at a face in bemusement. It was a Gold-ranked adventurer. She blinked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou, my good man? Aren\u2019t you an adventurer? Tobi the Turbulent, or something.\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi, the leader of Todi\u2019s Elites, hesitated as every eye fell on him. But he shouted, clenching his teeth against her Skill.<\/p>\n

\u201cI lost almost everything on The Golden Triangle! Same as everyone here! You\u2019re the [Lady] of Invrisil\u2014shouldn\u2019t we be paid something back?\u201d<\/p>\n

Yes<\/em>, exactly. Todi wasn\u2019t the ideal mouthpiece\u2014but the crowd managed a swell of voices. Magnolia waved them down. She looked calmly around.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, I see. This terrible business with The Golden Triangle. You\u2019d all like your money back, would you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Yes! <\/em>The [Lady] paused to let the noise fall.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd why is it my fault? Did I tell you to spend the money? Did I<\/em> end the Golden Triangle? Why not petition Wistram? They rather crudely brought the scheme down. But at what point did I assume responsibility for your decisions?\u201d<\/p>\n

Silence. Then someone shouted.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut it wasn\u2019t our faults! We were tricked!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIndeed you were. And that is quite tragic.\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia Reinhart smiled. Only, it wasn\u2019t a smile. She looked at the shouter.<\/p>\n

\u201cI still do not understand why it is my responsibility to fix your mistakes. You all invested money of your own will. Perhaps it was too much. Perhaps it was tricked and you lack for everything. But why must I<\/em> amend your faults?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause you\u2019re Invrisil\u2019s [Lady]!\u201d<\/p>\n

Todi bellowed back. The crowd echoed him. Magnolia sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that means I should hold your hands? Cover your every ill? I am quite happy to end a plague, or reimburse damages from a storm. But this was no storm. This was your choice.<\/em> Should I then replace a baked loaf of bread you let grow stale and moldy? If you lame a horse by your poor care and riding, should I buy you another?\u201d<\/p>\n

The stinging words were not endearing her to anyone. And Sir Relz and Noass were capturing it all. Todi blustered, pointing a finger at Magnolia.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo that\u2019s it? What\u2019re you going to do?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia\u2019s calm reply made the Gold-ranked Captain freeze. She looked at him and he quailed. Magnolia Reinhart glanced around.<\/p>\n

\u201cI do not owe you money. I rather believe you have been misled to protest here. Ladies and gentlemen\u2014I am a great fan of charity. I do not believe in covering for other\u2019s mistakes. You may demand as much gold from me as you wish. And you are welcome to protest. But you may not enter my mansion. You may try<\/em>, of course. That is your choice. As it has always been.\u201d<\/p>\n

The crowd waited. But Magnolia Reinhart was done. She pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow, if you will excuse me. I believe the fine men who prompted you to waste your time here would like a word. Milords? You may enter. No one else.\u201d<\/p>\n

The gates swung open. The crowd backed up. Some tried for the opening. A few could make it past Magnolia\u2019s aura. They moved forwards\u2014<\/p>\n

And the Steel Golems swung down their swords. Todi\u2014a handful of others backed up. Magnolia Reinhart gestured.<\/p>\n

\u201cCome, [Lords]. You wanted an audience? You shall have it. Now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Alman, Lord Ranga, the other dozen [Lords] and their retinues hesitated. But she gestured and they came. Riding through the silent crowd. Lord Alman was sweating.<\/p>\n

The gates closed. The crowd waited outside. But now\u2014now\u2014it was too quiet. Magnolia Reinhart didn\u2019t move as the [Lords] dismounted slowly. Ressa stood with her. Teriarch got up for a better look. Some stared at the tall half-Elf. Others looked warily at the giant golems.<\/p>\n

A bright clap made all of them jump. Magnolia smiled, sweet as sugar.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, gentlemen! This is an unexpected<\/em> house call. I would have set out tea, and refreshments if I had received a missive. Since I did not and you have brought so many guests here, do understand if I refrain from niceties. Here you are. You have your audience with me. I hope you will have cause to regret it.\u201d<\/p>\n

They shifted. Magnolia ran her eyes down their ranks. Few were high-ranking [Lords]. She focused on two, and her smile deepened.<\/p>\n

\u201cAh, Lord Ranga. Lord Alman\u2014I just spoke with your wife. How terribly disappointing to see you here. I shall have to tender my regrets to Edere regarding our talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Alman started. Eyes swung towards him, accusatorially. He paled.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou spoke to Edere?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJust this morning. But that feels like ages ago. Tell me, Lord Alman. [Lords] of Izril. Why are you<\/em> here?\u201d<\/p>\n

They hesitated. Lord Ranga thrust past his son.<\/p>\n

\u201cTo put an end to this damned [Trade War], Reinhart! It\u2019s gone on too long! And it\u2019s crippling our economies! We\u2019ll have an end to it. This unfair business\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia Reinhart\u2019s eyes narrowed. Her lips thinned. Her hand came down against the side of her carriage with a slap<\/em> that made all the [Lords] start. Magnolia rubbed her hand with a wince.<\/p>\n

\u201cUnfair. What an\u2026extraordinary word to come from you, Lord Ranga. This crowd, which had come here at your<\/em> direction has more claim to that word than you. This Golden Triangle fraud was<\/em> unfair. Had I been able to see and prevent it, I would have. But your complaint? My [Trade War] is unfair?<\/em> Need I remind you that this all began when you sent me the black rose of shame<\/em>? An insult to my name and honor?\u201d<\/p>\n

Outside, the crowd stirred. Sir Relz pantomimed exaggerated shock for the viewers. And the [Lords] shifted. Teriarch\u2019s eyes burned.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga saw Magnolia snap her hand closed. His jaw clicked<\/em> shut. Outraged, he tried to speak. Magnolia Reinhart ignored him. She looked around at the gathering of [Lords], noting their arms and armor with clear disdain.<\/p>\n

\u201cTell me, my noble [Lords] and members of the realm\u2014if I had the audacity to slap you in the face with a glove and call you a coward, would you<\/em> not seek to reply? Or are you saying that I was not<\/em> at the Sacrifice of Roses? That I did not<\/em> march against Velan the Kind? Say so, now, if any of you believe that.\u201d<\/p>\n

None did. Lord Alman flushed, and then saw one of the other [Lords] move. A man with white hair and a trick leg advanced with a limp. He had a sword-cane, and while his clothes were magnificent\u2014they were also old. Heirlooms, the enchantments weakened, the fabric fraying despite best efforts to keep them maintained. He addressed Magnolia curtly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI would never deny your presence at the Sacrifice of Roses, Magnolia Reinhart. But that is not the issue. When Lord Tyrion was poised to take Liscor, deceptive as his actions were, you stopped him. Rightly or wrongly\u2014war with the Drakes isn\u2019t something I yearned for. But the way you did it was to threaten his children. You held their lives\u2014and other innocent lives to achieve your ends.\u201d<\/p>\n

His voice was steady. Teriarch turned to stare at Magnolia. She waited, her face expressionless. The [Lord] went on, his eyes never wavering from hers.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is a coward\u2019s act. So I believe, Lady Reinhart. I stand by the rose I sent myself. And I<\/em> was not there that day. I would never deny the truth of your bravery. Then. Now\u2014I question your honor.\u201d<\/p>\n

Some of the other [Lords] murmured support, including Alman. Magnolia\u2019s stare was flinty. But after a moment, she nodded. Not without respect.<\/p>\n

\u201cLord Toldos. Well spoken. It seems, then, we came at odds with one another.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo it appears. Now, this [Trade War] threatens my people. They suffer for it. I will have it ended.\u201d<\/p>\n

The old Lord Toldos looked at her. Magnolia looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBecause it is unfair\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Again, Lord Ranga was transfixed, this time by Magnolia\u2019s stare. She looked at him, and then spread her hands delicately with a sigh.<\/p>\n

\u201cGentlemen. Here we are again with that word. Unfair. <\/em>Iniquitous. I am attacking your pockets, your gold reserves with my \u2018underhanded\u2019 ability to apply economic pressure. Would you prefer if I challenged you to a joust and ran you through?\u201d<\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t wait for their reply. Magnolia raised a finger.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhilst you studied swordplay, I<\/em> studied ledgers. This is how I fight my battles and you are simply weaker. Would you dare complain if I were a [Warrior Lady] who had just thrashed you on the field of battle?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cProbably.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ressa muttered. She smiled politely as half a dozen glares turned on her. Teriarch just waited. He had heard all of this before. Perhaps Lord Toldos would have replied then, or Alman, who was working up to a reasonable argument.<\/p>\n

But Lord Mel, son of Lord Ranga, pushed forwards. He was bristling with fury, on his father\u2019s behalf as much as anyone else. He pointed at Magnolia, face red with emotion.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe demand you stop your Skill! We outnumber you! And there are over a dozen noble houses\u2014and dozens<\/em> more who will have our backs if it comes to a conflict!\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Alman\u2019s head snapped up. He heard Ranga hiss between his teeth.<\/p>\n

\u201cMel! Don\u2019t be a fool!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] looked amused and annoyed at the interruption. She turned to face Lord Mel.<\/p>\n

\u201cYoung man, you have a very simple view of the world. But since that seems to be on the level of most of the [Lords] here, I\u2019m willing to entertain it. If you would like to persuade<\/em> me with violence, go right ahead. Ressa, don\u2019t touch the lad. You too, T\u2014Eldavin.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lordling] hesitated. His father was hissing at him, but Magnolia gestured at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo ahead. It should prove interesting for both of us. How will you force me to change my mind?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBy any means necessary. I shouldn\u2019t want to, because you are a [Lady], but I don\u2019t respect your title.\u201d<\/p>\n

The young man hotly strode over. Magnolia raised one eyebrow.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh yes. And I am much aquiver in my shoes. Lord Mel, I would advise you to shut up. Your father is not a good example in that regard, but one can always dig deeper, I suppose. What can you do to me? End my [Trade War]? Threaten me? Or will you run me through with your sword?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLady Reinhart, don\u2019t tempt me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Mel was breathing hard. His hands were clenched. Magnolia sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cYoung man, I am not impressed by heavy breathing. Let alone empty threats. Nor can you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He slapped her across the face. It was a fast blow, open-handed.<\/p>\n

Magnolia blinked. The [Lords] susurrated.<\/em> Lord Alman closed his eyes. Ranga snapped.<\/p>\n

\u201cMel!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] rubbed at her cheek. Lord Mel opened his mouth. Teriarch stirred\u2014Magnolia raised a hand.<\/p>\n

She slapped him back. And Lord Alman felt<\/em> that slap. He saw a figure fly back, twisting. Lord Mel spun around and hit the ground so fast Alman swore he heard something crunch<\/em>.<\/p>\n

Everyone stared at the motionless Mel. Magnolia rubbed her cheek again. Then she shook out her hand. Calmly, she looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Insult to Injury]. Would any of you like to try stabbing me? Ressa, block them if they try that.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga knelt by his son. So did Alman. Mel\u2019s eyes were rolled up in his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think he\u2019s more than unconscious. Ah\u2014his fingers.\u201d<\/p>\n

Alman winced. Lord Ranga rose to his feet, white-faced.<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia Reinhart. You will answer for that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI rather think I did, Ranga. Your son may well be able to force his future wife to agree, but not me. Not with the threat of violence. I hope he recalls that on his wedding night.\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia\u2019s eyes glittered. She looked around, one of her cheeks glowing red.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet us end this pointless argument. If you would like to attack me, [Lords] of Izril, go ahead. I will, regretfully, order my people to break as few bones as possible. If you would like to mobilize an army against me, again, you are welcome to try. But do not dare assume that you have a right to order me to do anything. <\/em>You have insulted my honor and I have no obligation to do anything<\/em>. Indeed, I am rather less inclined at this moment than I was this morning.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReinhart. My people are suffering.\u201d<\/p>\n

Toldos spoke up. Magnolia looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne feels you should have considered that along with my impugned honor, Toldos. If they dislike it so much, I will offer them an incentive to move to my<\/em> lands.\u201d<\/p>\n

He paled in fury. Magnolia turned, and waved a tired hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is all. This was exceedingly stupid, my [Lords]. Begone from my estates, please.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lords] felt her pushing<\/em>. They held their ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis isn\u2019t over, Reinhart! Don\u2019t force us to take this to a more severe step!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBring your armies, Lord Villmen. And we shall see how well that<\/em> goes. Or you might try an apology. Diplomacy!\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia whirled around and pointed at him. He stumbled back. Towards the open gates. The [Lords] looked at each other. And then they realized.<\/p>\n

The crowd was still there. <\/em>They had listened to the entire debate. And now\u2014they were looking at the [Lords]. Who had made this about a [Trade War]. Something\u2026Invrisil\u2019s people didn\u2019t care about.<\/p>\n

They were very quiet. Lord Alman realized. The mob was staring at them.<\/em> Alman felt his feet moving. He tried to get his legs to stop taking him out of the gates\u2014but this was Magnolia\u2019s ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cReinhart! Be reasonable!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ranga was supporting his son on the horseback. He looked back. Lord Toldos was pale. His retainers clustered around him.<\/p>\n

But Lady Reinhart had lost her temper. Alman saw that too late. From the beginning she had been incensed. He could not have known why. But he should have remembered what a Reinhart\u2019s wrath looked like.<\/p>\n

Slowly, Magnolia raised her hand. The gates swung closed. And her last words rang in the [Lord]\u2019s ears.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou provoked a riot in my city, gentlemen. I think it\u2019s only fair to hold you accountable for that.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

They ran. Magnolia watched them go. The [Lords] fled. Not that she had doubted it. Even lower-level, they had money. Artifacts. She was poised\u2014but she only needed to use [Deft Hand] once to trip someone up before they seized Lord Mel.<\/p>\n

The crowd charged after the [Lords], converging on Invrisil.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that was a mess.\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia muttered after they were gone. She had noted that the two Drake [Commentators] had fled ahead of the [Lords]. They weren\u2019t complete<\/em> fools.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho thought it was a good idea to broadcast a riot<\/em>? Wistram and two Drakes from Pallass. Of course. The masters<\/em> of societal understanding.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] rubbed at her cheek. She felt a soothing bit of liquid; Ressa dabbed at her swollen cheek.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat stupid boy. I didn\u2019t think he\u2019d actually slap me. I thought even Ranga\u2019s son had more sense.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou did provoke him.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Head Maid] wasn\u2019t exactly sympathetic. Magnolia sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI did. Well, let that be a lesson.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned. And nearly ran into Teriarch.<\/p>\n

There the Dragon stood, arms folded. He looked at her, mismatched eyes\u2014not disapproving. But not complimentary either. Magnolia hesitated. And in front of the Dragon she felt younger.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, old man? I\u2019m not in the mood for a lecture.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNeither am I. What did that [Lord] say? You held children hostage?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. That. I shall explain the entire business, Teriarch. It was a bluff. I knew Tyrion wouldn\u2019t risk his sons. To prevent a Drake city from being taken\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dragon listened. Magnolia felt the swelling in her cheek grow down. She sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd so, you see\u2014I play the villain nicely. Which leads to this debacle. But at least there is a chance for negotiation with Oteslia.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn the meantime, the [Lords] and this crowd are your enemies.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled thinly.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne must give to get. I realize that isn\u2019t a Reinhart tradition, but we tend to just steal<\/em>. And make no friends at all. Teriarch, what would you have done to that crowd?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dragon gazed at the gates; the mob was gone. He remembered countless riots. Protests over lack of food, deranged figures\u2014hatred of him\u2014<\/p>\n

In his mind, he saw an [Empress] flying down to address tens of thousands of her subjects. Fearless.<\/em> He blinked\u2014and saw a dead [Prince] who had tried the same. A [Lady] savaged for trust\u2014<\/p>\n

He set them to flame and they ran, screaming. Ranks of armored [Knights] put down the insurrection with force.<\/em><\/p>\n

The Dragon looked at Magnolia and shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have seen every answer. None is perfect. There have been [Orators] who quelled a riot with words alone. It did not mean they were right or the problem was solved. What would I have done? Better not to have the riots to begin with.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSpare me the philosophy, old man. If you have a suggestion, I will listen. At least those damn Drakes have left. I\u2014agh\u2014Ressa, handkerchief.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Head Maid] was a beat too slow to get it to Magnolia. The [Lady]\u2019s nose began to bleed profusely. Teriarch started.<\/p>\n

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

Magnolia pressed the linen to her nose as Ressa pinched the bridge.<\/p>\n

\u201cToo many people to hold still. At least I put on a good face. Now\u2014the riots. They\u2019ll be centered in Invrisil. Reynold\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia waved her free hand. The [Butler] appeared.<\/p>\n

\u201cMilady?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSend the Golems.\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia\u2019s eyes glittered. Teriarch waited.<\/p>\n

\u201cTo put down the riots?\u201d<\/p>\n

His tone was neutral. His eyes though\u2014Magnolia rolled hers.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m not a [Tyrant] yet, Teriarch. Reynold, deploy them around the Mage\u2019s Guild. Merchant\u2019s Guild. Any hotspots. The Watch will keep order as it can. But let\u2019s not let the rioters destroy Invrisil. The Golems are not<\/em> to fight back unless provoked. Minimum damage.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBy your will, Lady Reinhart.\u201d<\/p>\n

Teriarch saw the Golems marching out the gates.<\/p>\n

\u201cMinimal force<\/em> is something only a higher Golem knows the nuance of.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I should then let them torch a building full of [Mages]? Should I have coddled the [Lords]? Better to be feared than loved after all. Or do you disagree?\u201d<\/p>\n

Magnolia held the bloody cloth to her nose. Teriarch looked at her and shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is certainly how Dragons ruled. And a soft hand usually invites rebellion. I am not condemning that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you have a point.\u201d<\/p>\n

They stood together. The Dragon looked at the [Lady]. And he saw how much had changed. And how little. But he wondered if the girl of sixteen years would have acted like the [Lady]. He couldn\u2019t imagine her sending Golems into a riot, even to protect. But that did not mean she was wrong.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cTell me, Magnolia. As I understand it\u2014this entire affair with the [Lords] was you declaring a [Trade War] over their insult to you.\u201d<\/p>\n

She sniffed<\/em> and regretted it.<\/p>\n

\u201cArgh. Yes. They put themselves as my foes over the outcome of Tyrion\u2019s gambit. They could have chosen not to. Wherein lies my flaw in replying to the insult? They impugned my honor, Teriarch. Would you have let that go?\u201d<\/p>\n

For a long while, the simulacra was silent. Teriarch watched the Golems disappearing towards the city. He smelled smoke. He still heard the distant din. After a while, he looked at Magnolia.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. If someone insulted me, I would reply just as you did. Because I am a Dragon. You need not be one, though.\u201d<\/p>\n

He turned and walked back towards the mansion. Magnolia watched his back. Then she turned with a curse.<\/p>\n

\u201cRessa, make sure none of those idiot [Lords] die. If you can.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Watch of Invrisil was about as efficacious as Liscor\u2019s Watch. They pulled back, guarding important streets to them and let the riots move through the streets. The [Lords] were in flight, but they found themselves driven into the city, unable to escape streets of angry people who wanted their blood.<\/p>\n

Meanwhile\u2014Steel Golems marched into Invrisil. They stopped around the Mage\u2019s Guild. The crowds attacked them. Once. The Golems threw down the crowd in seconds. So parts of Invrisil were madness. Parts contained. And that meant the city burned all the brighter in the areas where no one was halting the madness.<\/p>\n

Parts were also safeguarded by individuals. The Adventurer\u2019s Guild was untouched. About two-dozen adventurers, Silver and Gold-rank, loitered casually outside. And even members of the riots like Todi weren\u2019t about to clash with fellow adventurers.<\/p>\n

That was Invrisil. In Pallass\u2014Chaldion declared martial law. The Walled City was as large as Invrisil, but in Pallass, the riots ended fast.<\/p>\n

1st<\/sup> Army and 3rd<\/sup> Army as well as 4th<\/sup> Army sent [Soldiers] to break up the fighting. Even the hottest of flames were quenched by hundreds of armed [Soldiers] willing to apply force. The [Strategist] hunted down pockets of violence like he was fighting an insurgence against a guerilla force. He stomped the embers into ash and an uneasy peace reigned in the Walled City.<\/p>\n

That was a fact Noass and Sir Relz would have gleefully pointed out\u2014if they had made it back to Pallass. Unfortunately, they were hiding in Invrisil\u2019s sewers, having also been turned on. When the riot struck Invrisil\u2014minorities like Revi\u2019s friend in the Stitchfolk districts hid. So too did Garuda and Dullahan populations in Pallass, by and large.<\/p>\n

In Liscor though\u2014the Antinium Workers had been caught out. And the Humans ran in terror. The Watch was doing its best, but the thing about the law was that it was always outnumbered.<\/p>\n

Watch Captain Zevara found Relc Grasstongue. He was sitting outside his apartment. She looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cRelc\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

He was covered in soot. His apartment was gone. Torched. The Drake glanced up at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, hey, Captain Z. My home burned down. Sorta sucks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you alright? Someone get the [Healer]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake shrugged away Zevara\u2019s claws.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine. Just a bit singed. Had to get my puzzles. Most of them got out. Guess it helps with packing, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked up at her. Grinned weakly. Zevara looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s Wing Commander Embria?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s got one district locked down. But 4th<\/sup> Company can\u2019t hold more than a few streets. Only a hundred. You need a tail?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Watch Captain looked at Relc\u2019s soot-covered smile. She hesitated, then reached down.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Senior Guardsman. Gear up.\u201d<\/p>\n

He rose, stiffly, shedding layers of ash, and saluted briskly.<\/p>\n

\u201cAye, aye, Watch Captain.\u201d<\/p>\n

They were marching back towards the Watch House when Zevara heard the sound of screaming. She turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet ready to pull back or fight!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Watch braced for a fight with the mob. They\u2019d clashed a few times already with larger groups. If it came to it, they\u2019d run rather than fight.<\/p>\n

They saw a wave of people coming at them. Hundreds. Zevara didn\u2019t even bother to count.<\/p>\n

\u201cFall back! Down Turnip Street!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed. But Relc grabbed her arm.<\/p>\n

\u201cCaptain! Look!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake whirled. And then Zevara saw something strange. The crowd was running at the Watch. But not like a ravening horde. She heard screams.<\/em> They were fleeing.<\/p>\n

Then she heard the drumming. It sounded like a thunderous beat. The Watch Captain halted, confused. She frowned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is that sound?\u201d<\/p>\n

Footsteps.<\/em> Marching. The crowd fled, splitting up in every direction. The two Drakes and the [Guards] heard the second<\/em> group behind the first. Then they saw. And Zevara felt her scales turn to ice.<\/p>\n

\u201cAntinium.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

They marched down the street in formation. Soldiers, Workers. Painted Antinium and regular. Even the other varieties. The people of Liscor fled, screaming.<\/p>\n

The Black Tide marched.<\/em> And leading them was a blue Antinium. Xrn. And beside her\u2014Yellow Splatters. Pawn.<\/p>\n

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

A [Guard] turned pale at the sight. Zevara just counted.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Three hundred. Or I\u2019m a Lizard.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat, Watch Captain?\u201d<\/p>\n

Relc glanced at her. Zevara looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cThree hundred. They\u2019ve deployed the Hive\u2019s garrison. They\u2019re securing the streets.\u201d<\/p>\n

Indeed, the Antinium were clearing street after street. No one was fighting them. The individual rioters took one look at the Antinium and ran.<\/em> Meanwhile, they were finding Workers.<\/p>\n

It still chilled Zevara to see them. The Watch moved to one side. She saw Yellow Splatters break off as the Antinium marched in thunderous silence down another street.<\/p>\n

\u201cYellow Splatters! What is the meaning of this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are restoring order. And locating members of the Hive. I have ordered this as Prognugator of the Free Antinium.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Sergeant] replied calmly. Zevara\u2019s mouth opened. Her eyes flicked to Relc. And she had a moment where she decided\u2026to do the only thing that was logical.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014Very well. The Watch requests the Antinium to cooperate! We need to lock down streets where the riots are burning parts of the city! I can show you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt will be done.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Antinium marched.<\/em> And the riots ended where they moved. But those who saw them felt mixed relief at best.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The fire was going out. Maviola saw the riots quelling, order reasserting itself. She still waited. Waited for the crowds to turn on The Wandering Inn.<\/p>\n

And it came close. But the sight of Bird and dozens of Workers standing on the roof of the inn\u2014perhaps the distance outside the city, the knowledge of the inn\u2019s sturdy walls\u2014saved it. At the very least, no large mob converged on The Wandering Inn.<\/p>\n

If they could have gone through the magic door, that would have been another matter. But the crowds found the magic door missing. And indeed\u2014they saw very little of The Wandering Inn after Erin\u2019s first mistake.<\/p>\n

Ekirra\u2019s family was sheltering in their apartment. They hadn\u2019t joined the fury\u2014even though they\u2019d lost gold. The protests, yes. Afterwards? No. Ekirra\u2019s father and mother and his siblings all sat together, talking, playing little games with wooden tops. The little Gnoll was worried. Also upset\u2014he wasn\u2019t allowed to kick the ball inside. Everyone had snapped at him when he tried to kick it off the wall and practice what Mister Kevin had showed him.<\/p>\n

When the angry people passed by their streets, everyone went silent. The last crowd had been mostly Drakes, but they\u2019d been looking for things to steal, not to burn homes. Ekirra had heard<\/em> them.<\/p>\n

Now, he nibbled on the fur on his arm, a nervous tic he wasn\u2019t supposed to do anymore. No one stopped him though.<\/p>\n

When the knocking came on the door, Ekirra\u2019s parents stiffened. The room went silent; there wasn\u2019t any light in the room. They were quiet.<\/p>\n

\u201cMake no sound.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Ekirra\u2019s mother whispered. The knocking came again. Ekirra\u2019s father stood up. He reached for a belt-dagger and his family stared at him. Then\u2014a voice came.<\/p>\n

\u201cEkirra! Hey\u2014is anyone in here? It\u2019s me!\u201d<\/p>\n

The others jumped.<\/em> That was Erin! Ekirra\u2019s tail began to wag. He finally sniffed her scent over the smell of burning.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Solstice?\u201d<\/p>\n

The father whispered. He went to the door, peered through the spy hole.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t see you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m invisible. Hey, Numbtongue\u2014hold that door steady! Palt, can you re-visable me for a sec?\u201d<\/p>\n

The door opened. Someone<\/em> entered the room. Erin reappeared. The Gnoll family gasped. Erin waved at them.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey! Glad to see you\u2019re okay. Do you want to come with me?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? I don\u2019t understand. Miss Erin, how did you get here? There was a crowd\u2014it\u2019s not safe. Come in!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gnoll protested. But Erin pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI was invisible. We\u2019re going around, making sure people are okay! We\u2019ve checked on Selys, Visma, Ishkr\u2019s good, but he\u2019s looking for his sister.\u201d<\/p>\n

She waved towards something. Ekirra, peeking around his father\u2019s legs, saw the magic door. It was being held up by\u2026he sniffed. Mister Numbtongue and Miss Minotaur?<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you want to stay here, that\u2019s fine. But we can let you come to the inn. It\u2019s safe. There\u2019s the Garden and no one\u2019s come to bother us.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin was telling Ekirra\u2019s family. The parents wavered only a second. Then they nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey! Anyone else who wants to come to the inn! Come on through!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman was aware of the power of Gnoll hearing. More than one apartment opened and disgorged the largely Gnoll residents. She herded them through the door. Then she turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Palt. Invisibility time.\u201d<\/p>\n

She vanished and Numbtongue, Beza, and Erin all hurried down the street. When a crowd came by\u2014they put the door down. No one noticed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think that\u2019s nearly everyone. Let\u2019s get this door close to the Watch House or the Adventurer\u2019s Guild.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin panted. Numbtongue growled an affirmative. Erin walked forwards\u2014right into Bezale.<\/p>\n

\u201cOw. Sorry, Beza. Let me just\u2014oh, that\u2019s you, Numbtongue. Sorry, sorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

Swearing, the three got the door down another street. They found 4th<\/sup> Company locking down the area around the Watch House. Here they ran into trouble.<\/p>\n

\u201cCaptain! I\u2019m sensing something! Invisibles on approach!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage] attached to the blockade of Captain Wikir\u2019s squad couldn\u2019t see them, but even low-level [Mages] had their ways. Erin, Numbtongue, and Palt saw the [Soldiers] curse.<\/p>\n

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

Wikir roared. The [Mage] pointed his wand.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Dust Wind]!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin coughed as the dust suddenly covered her invisible body. She waved her arms as the [Soldiers] aimed weapons at them. Unlike the [Guards], 4th<\/sup> Company stuck to their blades.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t shoot! Don\u2019t shoot! It\u2019s me! Erin!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Soldiers] lowered their weapons. Erin staggered forwards, coughing, as Palt dropped his spell.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ve got a lot of people in the inn! We\u2019re taking the magic door to the Watch House. We can do that, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Granted. Send a runner to Wing Commander Embria and the Watch Captain.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gnoll [Captain] eyed Numbtongue and Beza\u2019s silhouettes, but he waved them through. Gratefully, Erin staggered down the street. Then she turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think we did it. Okay, everyone! We\u2019re in the clear! Anyone got water? I\u2019ve got dust all on me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Inside the inn was packed. Even the [Grand Theatre] was stretched to accommodate everyone. The Knights of the Rose and Lady Bethal were standing around with Maviola, Mrsha\u2014who was greeting Ekirra with Visma and urging him and his sibling into the [Garden of Sanctuary] to meet the beavers\u2014Lyonette, reassuring people, and everyone else.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll admit. This is a better plan than your last one.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola herself brought over some water. Erin washed her face as Numbtongue grumpily reappeared, sneezing. Beza trotted into the inn.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Maviola. It\u2019s not everything. But you\u2019re right.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin had seen the riots. Looting shops. Harrying Humans and Workers. Apart from one instance, she hadn\u2019t confronted them. When she had, though\u2026well, Numbtongue had skinned his knuckles.<\/p>\n

Lady Bethal eyed Erin as the young woman splashed more water on herself and yelped because it was cold.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re a young woman after my heart, Miss Erin. You don\u2019t believe in sitting around, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat good does that<\/em> do? Hey, thanks for lending me the [Knights].\u201d<\/p>\n

They bowed. Kerrig, Nil, Welca\u2014there were six in all. But you didn\u2019t need more than six.<\/em> Maviola glanced at them.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re not going to go anywhere else?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026No. Not unless it gets bad. But it sounds like the Antinium are helping to keep order. Apparently there are hundreds of them stopping the riots. That\u2019s good.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lady Bethal and Maviola both glanced up at that. Thomast nudged his wife, and Maviola just nodded slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. \u2018Good.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin ignored that. She turned to Drassi, who was monitoring the news and the door.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnything else, Drassi? How\u2019re the other cities?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood. Sir Relz and Noass aren\u2019t on-screen. It\u2019s this Garuda.\u201d<\/p>\n

A Garuda was filling in for the two absent Drakes. Erin nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019s Esthelm? Celum?\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cCalm. Celum\u2019s too banged up from the raid to really explode. I checked; Fals said it\u2019s fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd Esthelm?\u201d<\/p>\n

A wry smile. This came from Palt. He was passing around something\u2014Erin nearly objected until she saw it was just little sweets. Mints. Not everything was an edible<\/em> edible.<\/p>\n

\u201cPeaceful. Even besides Master Pelt showing up, I don\u2019t think Esthelm was a huge target of The Golden Triangle. They\u2019re not as connected and they didn\u2019t have as much money to spend.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s a relief. Selys is at the Adventurer\u2019s Guild and Keldrass\u2019 team is there. So is Hawk and Tekshia. So Selys is safe. I talked to a [Guard]\u2014Jeiss\u2014who says they found Relc and Olesm\u2019s helping from City Hall. So\u2026I guess that\u2019s it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin leaned back with a sigh. She was tired. But she\u2019d done something.<\/em> She looked at Maviola.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow\u2019d I do?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAside from trying to stop a mob with your aura alone? Well. Besides\u2014we just saw Magnolia doing the same.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] sat up with a frown.<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? Aw, so that means I\u2019m too low-level.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTo a point. The riots are contained in most cities, but she seems happy to let them run in Invrisil. I suppose that\u2019s in contrast to Pallass. Grand Strategist Chaldion put the riots down hard.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper]\u2019s heart sank.<\/p>\n

\u201cChaldion did\u2026? How hard is\u2014hard? What about Saliss? I bet he didn\u2019t do anything like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHe is a Named Adventurer. Not the law.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola didn\u2019t reply to Erin\u2019s first question, which was telling. The [Innkeeper] looked around. Then she saw Visma\u2019s mother hurrying over.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Solstice. Is Liscor safe? We\u2019d like to check on our homes if it is.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot yet. But soon. The Watch is outside\u2014I\u2019ll get people to check on it, okay? You just sit tight. Have something to eat. On the house.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin soothed her. The many people in the room were nervous, but the Players were putting on comedy bits, and Lyonette was passing out free snacks and drinks. Erin sighed, sat back\u2014<\/p>\n

And Ishkr was there. The Gnoll hovered at Erin\u2019s side.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin. Miss Erin, have you heard about my sister? Liska?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin sat up.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2014Ishkr. I didn\u2019t. I\u2019ve asked, but she\u2019s not at your apartment and no one else saw her…\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gnoll [Waiter] growled under his breath. Erin began to stand up.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can go look for her. Numbtongue, Beza\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

They glanced up. But the Gnoll shook his head. He hesitated, bent down.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2014she may be with the rioters, Miss Erin. It would be like her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. Then should I\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll go look for her.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gnoll wanted to go through the door, but everyone blocked him.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy dear young\u2026Gnoll. If your sister is<\/em> with a mob, there\u2019s nothing to do. Sit down, please. Ser Kerrig, perhaps you could go look. Even a mob is unlikely to stop you. Is there a description for this young Gnoll\u2026woman?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Rose Knight nodded, donning his helmet. But Ishkr shook his head again.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. No. Thank you. I will wait. She\u2019s probably with\u2014it\u2019s fine.\u201d<\/p>\n

He was glancing at Visma\u2019s mother and around the room. Clearly nervous. Erin hesitated, but Ishkr strode off.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will help wait tables. Please let me know if you hear from her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. I\u2019ll get Drassi to check.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] looked around. She saw Drassi raise her head and glance at Ishkr. Then the Drake [Gossip] slid over to Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm. Erin. I think Ishkr\u2019s really worried. Liska might actually be with a riot. That\u2019s like her. I can go through. I\u2019ll stick to the safe zones.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou sure, Drassi? What\u2019s Liska like? You know her? I\u2019ve never even met her.\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi rolled her eyes, indignant for a second.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin, I know everyone.<\/em> Yeah. Ishkr\u2019s sister is two years younger. She\u2019s uh\u2026difficult.\u201d<\/p>\n

And that came from Drassi, who had few bad words about anyone. Erin frowned. They headed into the kitchen, where even Gnoll ears would have trouble if they whispered. Lyonette glanced at them as she pulled more pizzas out of the oven and distributed them for the guests.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s wrong with Liska?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2014that\u2019s why Ishkr doesn\u2019t want anyone to find her but him or maybe you. She\u2019s uh\u2014well\u2014I happen to know this, but you shouldn\u2019t tell anyone. I haven\u2019t! Obviously! Ishkr asked me not to. But she gets in trouble because she\u2019s often with\u2026female friends.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin stared blankly at Drassi as the Drake [Gossip] looked uncomfortable.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. What kind of female friends? [Thieves]?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Erin. Female\u2026friends.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUh huh.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gossip] gave up. She leaned over.<\/p>\n

\u201cTurnscales, Erin.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper]\u2019s eyes slowly narrowed. She\u2026knew that word. But the meaning was\u2026<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy\u2019s that bad?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s gotten arrested before. Look\u2014it\u2019s not my secret. Just\u2014just don\u2019t announce it. That\u2019s why Ishkr doesn\u2019t want her found in front of everyone.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi hurried off. Before Erin could process that revelation, she heard a sound.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014them\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

A roar of fury. Everyone in the inn froze.<\/em> Erin barreled out of the kitchen.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was that!?\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked around. Numbtongue recoiled from the magic door.<\/p>\n

\u201cInvrisil! It\u2019s still in the middle of the riots!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe let\u2019s put the magic door back in the hallway, huh, Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Goblin nodded. Embarrassed, he dragged it down the hallway. Ishkr and Erin went to help.<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] stared at the door after it was placed back in its usual spot. She glanced at Ishkr, but said nothing. The sudden surge of sound had worried her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to open the door. Just to see how Veeid\u2019s doing, okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

Numbtongue nodded. Ishkr backed up.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Erin, maybe we should\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin yanked the door open for a second, ready to slam it shut. She heard another wave of sound. People were shouting!<\/em> But the inn was safe.<\/p>\n

Boarded up. Veeid spun as he saw Erin appear.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Solstice! Dead gods! Please, let us have those [Knights] back!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cVeeid! What\u2019s wrong? Sorry, we were in Liscor with the riots\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The portly [Innkeeper] was pale. The [Bouncers] were watching the doors, looking very<\/em> nervous. The staff were hiding in the kitchen.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2014the crowd went to Lady Reinhart\u2019s mansion, but they came back even more furious! They\u2019ve been tearing up parts of the city! They didn\u2019t break in here, but they tried\u2014twice! They\u2019re hunting some people. I\u2019d take it as a kindness, Miss Solstice if you\u2019d let us shelter at your inn. Just for a moment!\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin nodded instantly.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course. Come on through! But who\u2019re they after, Veeid?\u201d<\/p>\n

The man practically jumped through the doorway. He looked back as the other staff flooded after him, even the [Bouncers].<\/p>\n

\u201c[Lords]. They\u2019re going to be torn to shreds if they don\u2019t get out of the city. Nothing to do with us, though. They started<\/em> this. I hope they get what\u2019s coming to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Veeid\u2019s tone was vindictive. Erin looked at him as the others came through the door. Her eyes flickered.<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. What\u2019s coming to them. Getting beaten up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOr lynched. Either way\u2014where\u2019s Lady Walcha\u00eds? My inn!\u201d<\/p>\n

The man ran down the corridor. Erin looked at Numbtongue. She recalled quite clearly\u2014her first reaction to hearing about the riots in Invrisil.<\/p>\n

\u201cI wanted to go out there and stop them. The riots, I mean. Good thing I didn\u2019t try then with the lantern, huh, Numbtongue?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMm.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Bard] watched as Redit, the [Cook], and two [Barmaids] hurried through the doors. They stared at the Goblin\u2019s face. But they knew the score. Anywhere else\u2014and he would have been in trouble.<\/p>\n

Erin knew that. What protected Numbtongue was her.<\/em> Even with his \u2018honorary citizenship\u2019 thing that Liscor had given him, he couldn\u2019t just walk into Liscor. In fact, the only two times had been during riots when something worse than a \u2018Goblin\u2019 was striking the city.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy did you want to stop the riots?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Bard] was looking at Erin. She shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just\u2014don\u2019t like how it felt.<\/em> You know, Maviola shows me auras. And they felt so angry.<\/em> And sad. Upset. It wasn\u2019t their fault.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin shrugged, a metaphysical commentary on the nature of injustice in the world. Erin looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI couldn\u2019t magically make them feel better. I thought I could. You know, with sports. But it doesn\u2019t always work. Guess I got a big head.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve seen worse.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled for a second. The Hobgoblin unslung his guitar. And Reiss kicked him. The ghost pointed, even though Numbtongue didn\u2019t feel the blow.<\/p>\n

\u201cWatch her.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Numbtongue saw Erin looking out the door. He heard the shouting. He saw something on Erin\u2019s finger glitter.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe thing is, Numbtongue. It\u2019s a bad thing. Riots hurt everyone. Even if you just burn down houses. Let alone kill people.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrue.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Bard] stood up, told something by Pyrite\u2019s intuition. His own mind. Reiss\u2019 whispers. He saw Erin smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin reached for her arm, then tightened his grip. He was her protector. And that meant doing things to protect Erin. Even if she didn\u2019t like it. She looked down at his steely grip.<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. Everyone\u2019s through. I\u2019ll let the [Knights] go through. You should go back to the inn.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin blocked the door casually with his body. Erin looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Her eyes flickered. Then she backed up. The Goblin tensed\u2014but Erin just smiled, raised her arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood point. You can\u2019t be stupid, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. Stupid gets you killed.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRight. Totally understood. I learned my lesson.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] backed up. Numbtongue didn\u2019t move from his spot. He saw Erin smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cI really did, Numbtongue.\u201d<\/p>\n

She walked back into the common room. The Hobgoblin sighed. He sat down. This time he kept his eyes on the two secret side doors. He closed the door, set it to Liscor and put his back against it.<\/p>\n

Even the garden wouldn\u2019t get past him. The Hobgoblin began to play. He listened to a song from another world and closed his eyes. He kept playing for a minute, then two.<\/p>\n

When he heard the soft footfall, he didn\u2019t open his eyes or stop playing.<\/p>\n

\u201cGo away.\u201d<\/p>\n

She didn\u2019t leave. The young woman stood there. She had brought something with her. Well, more than one thing. But one thing mattered.<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. I\u2019ll get Lyonette.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue. I learned a lot. And\u2014I never forget. You know that.\u201d<\/p>\n

He opened his eyes. And saw what Erin was carrying. The Hobgoblin\u2019s fingers slipped on his guitar. He tried to stop her. But really\u2014he had never been able to.<\/p>\n

On Erin Solstice\u2019s finger, her ring began to shine gold.<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The pursuit ended when the horses threw their riders. They had carried Lord Alman faithfully along with his two bodyguards. But the noise, the screaming, the rocks\u2014drove the horses insane. They did what people would have done long ago and reared.<\/p>\n

Lord Alman hit the ground. He struggled to his feet as another of his [Bodyguards] was dismounted. The other\u2014an [Archer], kept control of his mount.<\/p>\n

\u201cLord Alman! The crowds!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lord] ran on foot, then. And the crowds followed, screaming in fury. Magnolia had turned them on him.<\/p>\n

On them all. And even she underestimated the danger. Lord Alman ran past the Mage\u2019s Guild, clutching a stitch in his side. He hoped that would slow them\u2014<\/p>\n

The crowd brought down the Steel Golem. <\/em>It knocked them back, but the magical instructions kept it from splattering<\/em> them. They swarmed it, tossed grappling hooks and dragged it to the street. Then they smashed it with sledgehammers, hacked at it until the magic failed.<\/p>\n

That only made the [Lord] run faster. He saw Lord Ranga, his face torn by an arrow, shouting.<\/p>\n

\u201cAlman! Alman! Over here!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The man rode at him, sword drawn. Bloody; but he\u2019d been fleeing. The young [Lord], Mel, was still half out of it. Alman and his two bodyguards ran after Ranga.<\/p>\n

They found more [Lords], those who hadn\u2019t managed to escape the city. Lord Toldos was on foot as well. The old man had lost half his bodyguard.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are they?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDead. They ran right over us.\u201d<\/p>\n

The old [Lord]\u2019s face was white. He limped after other [Lords] as they tried to find a way out.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe could fight through\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Another [Lord] opined. Toldos looked at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd kill hundreds of civilians?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBesides which. They\u2019d kill us<\/em> first. Even with our artifacts.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Alman\u2019s voice was low. He panted. The street was clear for a second. A group of [Maids] and [Butlers] had ridden wagons in front of the last crowd, blocking them. But even Magnolia\u2019s servants\u2014if that had been them\u2014were fleeing the fury.<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia has to help us. If we die like dogs\u2014our Houses will declare a blood feud!\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga struck his horse\u2019s saddle. The stallion reared and he nearly fell off. The other [Lords] nodded. But\u2014Toldos limped behind the others, his face gray.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s miscalculated. Magnolia likes tidy plans. She doesn\u2019t know<\/em> riots. She might send her golems in after us, but I think she\u2019s lost control.\u201d<\/p>\n

The others looked at him. That was an unwelcome assessment. Before they could suggest anything though\u2014the riots found them.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLet us in!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga pounded on a door as the crowds advanced. The [Shopkeeper] refused to open up. Alman grabbed Ranga\u2014someone had shot<\/em> his horse.<\/p>\n

\u201cRanga, we have to move! Grab Mel and follow us!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lords] picked up Mel. No more arrows flew. The crowd was advancing\u2026slowly.<\/p>\n

Were they wary of the [Lord] and their bodyguard\u2019s blades? The two dozen men were outnumbered hundreds to one. Slowly, they backed up, hurrying down the street.<\/p>\n

Another crowd came down it. This time the [Lords] were trapped. From her rooftop, Ressa cursed. She crouched. She\u2019d been trying to steer them, but Invrisil had been boiling like a rat\u2019s nest and the [Lords] had kept going in circles.<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia. They\u2019re cornered.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cRessa. They must not die. Teriarch. Can you teleport them out?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you know each of their names, yes. Otherwise, I can fly over there and lift them to safety. But that would be obvious. And Wistram is already pestering Grand Mage Eldavin. I won\u2019t get tangled up in politics.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dragon\u2019s voice was testy from the other end of the speaking stone. Magnolia cursed at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cRessa. Do not<\/em> let them die.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do you want me to do? I have stunning vials. I can drop one crowd. But if they charge in, I\u2019ll have to go down myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ressa had the poisoned blade that Regis Reinhart had given her. If she went down\u2014people died. Magnolia fell silent. Teriarch was listening. Ressa waited. The voice, when it came, was distant.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo not let them die, Ressa.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAcknowledged.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReinhart! That would be a sl\u2014alright, I\u2019m going. Where are they? Wait, I\u2019ll scry Ressa and teleport to\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Sounds from the other end of the stone. Ressa put it away distantly. Teriarch might not make it. She focused down on the crowd. Either way\u2014<\/p>\n

The [Maid] had changed clothes. At least she looked like an [Assassin] now. She drew the blade. And waited.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Below. The crowd was more like a predator. It rolled forwards slowly as the [Lords] backed up. They were offering threats, demanding passage. It was ignored.<\/p>\n

\u201cKill them. <\/em>Vengeance!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cVengeance!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The crowd echoed it. For what? Well\u2014something to do with the Golden Triangle. Being sent against Magnolia Reinhart.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re tired of noble\u2019s tricks! They killed some of us!\u201d<\/p>\n

Bodyguards dead. They had killed one [Lord]. Magnolia hadn\u2019t reached him in time. The silent advance from both sides forced the [Lords] into a ring.<\/p>\n

These were the consequences. Of what? Well\u2014just consequences.<\/p>\n

No Wistram broadcast here. Sir Relz and Noass had fled the violence. This\u2014this crowd was ready for blood.<\/p>\n

\u201cStay back! We are [Lords] of Izril. By right, we rule you! We settled these lands!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga bellowed. It was an amazingly stupid thing to say. Someone laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cFirst you, then your Rhir-taken house!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lord] paled. There was a cheer from the crowd.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cJustice!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWoo! That\u2019s right! Kill them! Start with the women and children! And babies too!\u201d<\/p>\n

The vindictive rage\u2014faltered. The crowd hesitated. They were behind a lot of things, but that was a bit too on-the-nose. But the shouter continued.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s kill them all! And then kill all the villagers! Especially the babies! And the cows! And uh\u2014rats! Kill all the rats and sheep!<\/em> Kill \u2018em all!\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone was disrupting the flow of this moment. Like cold water down the back. It was unpleasant. Going against what was right. <\/em>Righteous anger snarled\u2014turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho\u2019s shouting that?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

People turned. And they saw her standing there.<\/p>\n

It was a\u2026young woman. Wearing trousers, a light shirt. She had something in her hands. The crowd focused on that. On her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho are you?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice smiled. This time\u2014there were even more people. And they were armed.<\/em> They looked like bad news. She carried no lantern. And the only Skill she used was [Loud Voice].<\/p>\n

\u201cListen up. <\/em>You can\u2019t kill those people.\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed at the [Lords]. Lord Alman stared at the young woman in the street. Holding\u2026what was that? He peered past her as Lord Toldos\u2014Ranga\u2014the others stared at her. She was alone. The street was full of closed doors. Frightened people. He saw some of them poking their heads out. A furry face withdrew quickly.<\/p>\n

\u201cBack off.\u201d<\/p>\n

A man with a sword warned Erin. She looked at the sword, dismissed it. She called out to the crowds.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen. I don\u2019t know who they are. Really. I don\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed at the [Lords]. Lord Alman\u2019s heart sank. Erin looked about.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut you can\u2019t kill them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Who was she to set rules? <\/em>People swung around. Someone threw a stone. The rock soared at Erin\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

It exploded in midair. Three things hit it; an arrow, a bolt of light, and a shimmering force field. Erin recoiled\u2014and a trio of people looked out through a magical door.<\/p>\n

Bird. Palt. Montressa. They walked out. A Centaur, an Antinium, and a [Mage].<\/p>\n

Not the people to calm a mob. Four versus hundreds. Even so\u2014they weren\u2019t alone. Erin turned. She planted something on the ground.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know you\u2019re angry. Something terrible has happened. I can\u2019t fix that. Or give you your money back. You should be angry! You deserve justice!\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed at them. The people standing there hesitated.<\/p>\n

Six men and women in armor stepped out of the doorway. [Knights]. And then\u2014a Hobgoblin. They formed a line behind her. The young woman went on, spellbinding the crowd. Not with a Skill, but just the strangeness.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cIt sucks. Sometimes life is terrible. And I can\u2019t help you. I can\u2019t stop you from rioting. Or change your minds. But there\u2019s just one thing. You can\u2019t kill them. That\u2019s not right.\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed at the [Lords]. At this, there was jeering. The door opened. A [Chevalier] stepped into place. Antinium joined the others. A giant with yellow paint on his body. A muscular Drake and then another that put even him to shame. The Humans eyed the muscular<\/em> Drake. But he was still one and they had brought down a Golem.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t stop us. Get lost.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] didn\u2019t argue. She looked at the hundreds. Then turned her head. It was about twenty people. She shook her head. The door opened. A Drake in armor strode through. The Heartflame Breastplate.<\/p>\n

A half-Giant ducked his head to exit. The people looked up.<\/em> But he was shorter than a Golem.<\/p>\n

The young woman called out. As the crowds were hesitating.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen, everybody. I can see we\u2019re not going to resolve this with words. And that\u2019s fine. I didn\u2019t really think it would work. But look.\u201d<\/p>\n

She planted the thing she was carrying on the ground, in the street. And the bundle of white cloth unrolled. The crowd looked\u2014saw only a white bit of cloth.<\/p>\n

A flag.<\/em> White. The Hobgoblin stared at it. Erin looked at the murderous riot. She shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis isn\u2019t justice. You don\u2019t know what fighting for something important is. So I\u2019m sorry for this.\u201d<\/p>\n

For what? The young woman raised the flag. She hefted it higher, taking a two-handed grip on it. The people of Invrisil\u2014the riot\u2014uncomprehending, saw the young woman look behind her.<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin tensed. The Antinium with the bow plucked an arrow out of a quiver. He drew\u2014loosed.<\/p>\n

The arrow went through a woman\u2019s knee. She went down with a scream. Erin Solstice ran forwards. The crowd saw a second arrow flash forwards and hit a second knee. They stared<\/em>. What was she\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cCharge!<\/em>\u201d<\/span><\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] shouted. The word reverberated down the street. The people flinched. And they saw that strange group charge.<\/em> The Rose Knights surged past Erin and rammed into the crowd. Bereft of weapons, they punched with gauntleted fists, ignoring the panicked blows on their armor. The Hobgoblin thrust Erin back and knocked a huge man flying.<\/p>\n

A Centaur galloped to the side and began to unload spells on the crowd. Arrows of light. A Minotauress punched through on another side, her skin like iron.<\/p>\n

Montressa du Valeross calmly pointed. A barrier rose around the [Lords]. Disbelieving, Lord Alman saw an Antinium fighting side-by-side with the huge Drake. Grimalkin grimaced as he swatted a man down and then pointed.<\/p>\n

\u201c[Delain\u2019s Fist].\u201d<\/p>\n

The spell sent a group of Humans flying. With some relish, Relc grabbed a spear\u2014a knife tied to a length of wood and snapped it. He decked the man holding it.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s mad!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga exclaimed. The young woman was charging. The half-Giant, the Hobgoblin\u2014they all followed her, trying to keep her back. But she screamed and charged, holding the flag like a [Banner General].<\/p>\n

Erin had seen battle.<\/em> She ran forwards, the [Barkskin] potion warding off a stone that grazed her cheek. She blocked a club with the haft of her flag and kicked someone in the stomach. Out their lunch came. She bellowed.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cForwards, you cowards! <\/em>Let\u2019s go!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She charged past a disbelieving Grimalkin. Ser Kerrig spun, blood on his gauntleted fists. Erin ran as if there was an army at her back.<\/p>\n

And there was. The mob fractured. It was just angry people.<\/em> Erin had all the sympathy in the world for them. But not to murder.<\/p>\n

Like Liscor\u2014the answer was simple. To stop them burning down a home\u2014or killing anyone\u2014Erin charged.<\/p>\n

\u201cOne arrow, two arrows, three arrows\u2026three legs go ouch\u2026<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Bird hummed as he shot more people through the legs. The [Mages] were knocking people back. Palt blew a cloud of smoke that rendered those inside it breathless. They staggered away, choking.<\/p>\n

Erin ran.<\/em> She drew Keldrass in her wake, blocking weapons with the burning armor. Her friends streamed after her, but Erin didn\u2019t slow down.<\/em> She swung her flag, and people ran from it as if it was a sword. Numbtongue hadn\u2019t drawn his. He just punched people flat.<\/p>\n

Her ring was glowing.<\/em> The golden shine made Grimalkin\u2019s eyes widen. He turned. Words were spelling themselves out.<\/p>\n

\u201cImpossible.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

SALAZSAR.<\/em><\/span><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Inside the Walled City of Salazsar, a voice began to scream an alarm. A Daughter of the Walls called for aid. Wall Lady Navine heard the siren as well as her ring lit up. Her eyes went round.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo way. Invrisil? What\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erin didn\u2019t notice. Nor was this the place.<\/em><\/p>\n

She charged past a Gnoll with a top hat. He blocked a knife thrust meant for her and his club blurred. A Drake cursed as he kicked someone\u2019s legs out and then struck a head. They took their eyes off her for one second and\u2014<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cSplit them in half! Come on!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin shouted. The people parted in front of her. She saw a ring of steel, a shimmering barrier. Lord Alman stared at Erin Solstice as she broke through the crowd. The people hammering on Montressa\u2019s shield on the other side gaped at the young woman.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis way! Follow me!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed. The [Lords] needed no further urging. Insane or not\u2014the young woman was life and behind them lay death.<\/p>\n

They ran. The crowd made one effort for them. Right up until the half-Giant got tired of people trying to stab him and punched a hole through the crowd. A huge Selphid wearing a Raskghar\u2019s body thrashed the ones on the ground. A Dwarf, unconcerned with the niceties of this attack, broke someone\u2019s leg with a swing of a hammer.<\/p>\n

They were all here. As many as she could call. Erin Solstice ran back towards the inn. And the crowd broke.<\/em> They ran, rather than fight the invincible Rose Knights, or clash with the Hobgoblin\u2014the Drake [Mage].<\/p>\n

Quality over quantity.<\/em> Ressa stared from the rooftops. She was so amazed she forgot to sheathe her blade. The young woman had chosen a small army of everyone who didn\u2019t take wounds easily and punched through the lower-level mob.<\/p>\n

\u201cRessa? What\u2019s happening? Ressa? <\/em>Did Teriarch make it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Maid] glanced up. A puffing Dragon flew through the air. Well, a half-Elf, his robes fluttering wildly.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s the riot? Where\u2019s\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He stared down at the chaos below. Erin Solstice herded the [Lords] through the door. The Rose Knights fought a rearguard as Montressa\u2019s barrier collapsed and the crowd charged them. They moved through the door\u2014and it swung closed.<\/p>\n

Teriarch stared down, and then met Ressa\u2019s eyes. She expected his fury\u2014or annoyance at the very least. But instead, the Dragon sat down and laughed. He looked at the closed door the mob was smashing to pieces. His eyes crinkled up with mirth.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve only seen that before twice.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Maviola El looked at the [Innkeeper] in the silence afterwards.<\/p>\n

Erin had a cut down her face. Two more spots of blood on her clothing from where she\u2019d been stabbed. But Saliss\u2019 potions had taken the blows.<\/p>\n

Not many people were hurt bad. Moore had taken a knife wound nearly through his foot\u2014that was when he\u2019d lost his temper. Numbtongue had torn a nail clean off and was annoyed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat was\u2014who are\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the [Lords] was stammering. He looked around, so shocked he didn\u2019t register the high non-Human presence at first. But when he saw Numbtongue, he reached for his sword.<\/p>\n

\u201cGoblin!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

It was a classic response and the other [Lords] jerked upright. Numbtongue eyed the sword the man was waving at him. He calmly walked behind Lady Bethal.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, put it away, Ranga. This young lady has just saved your lives. In stunning fashion too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bethal Walcha\u00eds\u2019 presence made some of the [Lords] gawp. But most had eyes only for Erin. She was walking around.<\/p>\n

\u201cEveryone okay? Pelt? Moore? How\u2019s the foot? Grimalkin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Sinew Magus] stared at Erin\u2019s ring. But it was dull. His mind was racing. If she had activated that in Pallass, let alone Liscor\u2014Ancestors!<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cYou actually did it. You attacked them.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin turned as Maviola approached her. The [Lady Firestarter] looked strangely at Erin. The [Innkeeper] exhaled. She poked an injury on her side and winced.<\/p>\n

\u201cHealing potion\u2026there. Yeah. It was the only way. You were right. I can\u2019t control a mob. So I beat them up.\u201d<\/p>\n

She popped a cork and drank. The [Lady] just looked at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was your solution?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOnly if they attacked people. I had to save Visma\u2019s apartment that way. Well\u2014that was easier. I just needed the [Knights]. Hey\u2014Ser Kerrig? Thanks!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMilady Solstice, my pleasure.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Knight] bowed to her. The [Lords] turned back to Erin Solstice.<\/p>\n

There she stood, wiping blood from her cheeks and asking for a towel. The flag was only a bit covered with dirt and blood. It had looked far worse.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe charged them under the flag of truce. Who is that young woman who saved us, Bethal?\u201d<\/p>\n

The voice came from Lord Toldos. He looked at Erin. The [Innkeeper] turned. She offered him a weary smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cHi. I\u2019m Erin. Erin Solstice. I heard you were all in trouble. So I went to find you. Guess I made it just in time, huh? Who\u2019re you?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lords] looked at her. It was inconceivable to some that they should be saved by someone by chance.<\/em> Lord Toldos bowed after a second.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am Lord Toldos of House Everight. I am in your debt\u2014Lady Solstice?\u201d<\/p>\n

He glanced at Ser Kerrig. Erin laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I\u2019m not a [Lady]. I\u2019m just an [Innkeeper].\u201d<\/p>\n

Again they gaped. But the truth was undeniable. Erin stood there, panting, wiping her brow.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey Lyonette! Got any water? And more healing potions. That guy doesn\u2019t look good.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Mel was indeed still out of it. Even healing potions didn\u2019t do for concussions well. And as the [Lords] relaxed, coming to grips with their rescue, they finally noticed the people in the inn.<\/p>\n

Drakes. Gnolls.<\/em> The Human [Lords], some of whom had never been surrounded by non-Humans in their entire life and only seen them when they clashed at the Bloodfields, checked their arms nervously. But Erin walked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks for coming at the drop of a hat, Jelaqua.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, Moore was already insisting<\/em> we see if Mrsha was alright. And my man was in Esthelm so we were right there. Right, Grimalkin?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid threw an arm around Grimalkin\u2019s shoulder. The [Sinew Magus] deliberately folded his arms and ignored the now-copper ring. He wondered how many had seen it. How many knew.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI consider it a small debt, Miss Solstice. I will have you oblige me with some\u2026help with my training regimen. Later. I understood the necessity.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. And you, Pelt.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHah. I got to break a few legs. Felt like the old days with Terandrian snots. Just give me free drinks for a month.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dwarf trooped over to the door. Erin rolled her eyes and gave him a hug from behind until he grumped off. She went on, talking to the others, speaking to Yellow Splatters, thanking Keldrass, who shrugged, somewhat pleased at being able to punch Humans.<\/p>\n

A mixed group. Some close friends. Others\u2014acquaintances. Maviola watched too. Erin had splendidly called them to her. An [Innkeeper]\u2019s power. Someone who cultivated friendship like Magnolia and the others cultivated sheer power, force of arms.<\/p>\n

But it disturbed her, slightly, to see Erin use it like that. Maviola was no stranger to war. She could see the necessity of putting down a riot. But Erin Solstice had made the jump from trying to calm a riot with no violence at all to the most expedient route: beating them down with a group of elites.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a dangerous girl. She has both flower and sword in either hand.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola shook her head. She had misjudged Erin slightly.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me. But where\u2019s Lord Eick?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDead. They killed him.\u201d<\/p>\n

Alman answered curtly. He was shaking. Now he came to grips with it\u2014Magnolia Reinhart. He closed his eyes. When all was said and done\u2014his grudge to her was deepened this day.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere are we, father? Are we safe? Can we go home?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Mel was dizzy. Lord Ranga knelt by his side, worried, checking his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014we are safe, Mel. Lady Bethal, where are we? Might we go home?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re in Liscor, Lord Ranga. Home is far away. Fortunately, Erin has a magical door connecting to Invrisil. Or\u2014she did. I rather fear it\u2019s broken for the moment.\u201d<\/p>\n

The exclamations drew Erin over. She blinked, then smiled at the worried looks\u2014not just on the [Lord]\u2019s faces. The Players of Celum and Veeid and the other Invrisil citizens were alarmed. She waved a hand, laughing.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t worry. I used a spare mana stone on that door. The door to Veeid\u2019s inn is there. See?\u201d<\/p>\n

She opened the door. Everyone relaxed. Then they marveled.<\/p>\n

\u201cA magic door! Dead gods! So this is that inn that Reinhart travelled to? And we\u2019re in Liscor? A damn Dr\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

One of the [Lords] caught himself. He saw Relc grinning at him. The Drake blew on his knuckles.<\/p>\n

\u201cSay. I can punch anyone I want since I\u2019m getting kicked out\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He eyed the man. Erin just laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s fine. Liscor is nice to Humans.\u201d<\/p>\n

She faltered.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Usually. It\u2019s been a kind of sucky day for everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

No one disagreed with that. Well\u2014Pelt might have, but he was gone. Montressa just looked at the [Lords]. She counted minor houses, but some, like Lord Toldos, were known to Wistram. In Erin\u2019s inn.<\/p>\n

She wasn\u2019t one to miss the opportunity. Nor\u2014it seemed\u2014was Palt. He was going around, shaking hands, casting [Calm] spells.<\/p>\n

\u201cPalt, sir. Pleasure to help. Of course, I couldn\u2019t refuse when I heard\u2014from Wistram. Yes, Ullsinoi. I don\u2019t know if you heard\u2026a steadying smoke? Something stronger? Please, allow me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Montressa began doing the same. After a bit, Erin wandered over to the [Lords]. The first person she met was a tall fellow. Almost too skinny.<\/p>\n

\u201cInnkeeper Solstice? My name is Lord Alman of House Sanito. I am in your debt. As are we all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh. It\u2019s my pleasure. Like I said. I heard you were in trouble. And I had to do something.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lord] peered at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026It\u2019s a rare young woman who would charge a crowd that murderous.\u201d<\/p>\n

She laughed as if he\u2019d said a joke.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, that\u2019s just me. We can\u2019t let people be murdered, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Surely. May I ask\u2014what this place is? I assume your inn?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] looked around. She smiled broadly.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course! This is The Wandering Inn! Welcome! I forgot to say that! It\u2019s safe here. We have drinks, food\u2014hey Lyonette! Bring over some blue fruit juice and a pizza! That\u2019s good for the nerves, Alman. Can I call you Alman?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEr\u2026yes?\u201d<\/p>\n

Taken aback, Lord Alman saw a lovely young woman hurry over to him. He was presented with a bow, quite formal, and a cup of blue\u2026liquid\u2026and a triangle of what he was assured was food. He found himself sitting down.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs this\u2026what is this, may I ask?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm. Blue fruit juice. It\u2019s sweet. Go on!\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin urged the man. Somewhat apprehensive, and hoping this was, in fact, blueberry juice, the man took a sip. His eyes widened.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow sweet! And this\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He nibbled at the pizza. The hot food was comforting. Erin beamed.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood, right? Here\u2014this is for you.\u201d<\/p>\n

She took more drinks from a relieved Gnoll who had found his sister, gave them to Lord Ranga and Mel. The young man just stared at his cup for a while. Lord Ranga blinked and took a sip.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014it is sweet! What is this? It\u2019s not blueberry\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is the Amentus fruit.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Toldos stared into his cup. The old man blinked at the drink. The other [Lords] nearly spat out the drink.<\/p>\n

\u201cAmentus wine? Dead gods, that\u2019s expensive!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? No, this isn\u2019t alcoholic\u2026wine?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin looked surprised. Lord Toldos peered at the drink.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes this come from a blue\u2026fruit with a toxic center, Miss? I know it germinates in southern Izril. It comes so dear up north.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, that\u2019s blue fruits alright. We\u2019ve got an orchard, don\u2019t worry. Here, have some. On the house. Everyone feels better after blue fruit juice and pizza. Don\u2019t look at me like that, Grimalkin. It\u2019s comfort food.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] offered more pizza. The old [Lord] nibbled at it. Alman had finished his slice without even knowing. He chewed on the crust, reached for another since they were on offer.<\/p>\n

A little white paw grabbed his slice. The [Lord] peered under the table and saw a white\u2026dog? No, a Gnoll!<\/em> He nearly jumped out of his seat. Mrsha scurried away and shared her pizza with Visma and Ekirra.<\/p>\n

What an inn. What a place!<\/em> His head was spinning. But he had to ask.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs that\u2026is that Hobgoblin er\u2026t\u2014safe?\u201d<\/p>\n

He almost said \u2018tame\u2019,<\/em> but he was catching up. Numbtongue glanced up.<\/p>\n

\u201cUsually. If people attack me, not very.\u201d<\/p>\n

He answered for Erin. Then he went back to strumming on his guitar. The [Lords] checked their drinks to make sure<\/em> it wasn\u2019t wine.<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice laughed. It was an infectious sound. It didn\u2019t change the world. Bring back the dead, or stop a riot. But Maviola thought it was as compelling as Magnolia\u2019s charms. Perhaps more so. She laughed, leaned on a table, and sat down.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhoof. I\u2019m dizzy. My legs are shaking.<\/em> That was crazy. That was\u2026I\u2019m so glad.\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked around, smiling at the others. And Lord Alman was compelled to put aside his drink.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss\u2014Miss Erin. I should like to say that House Sanito owes you a debt, once again. If we can repay you in any way\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He hesitated. Now, he was thinking of his house. That damn [Trade War] wasn\u2019t going to end anytime soon. But there was that and this.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026I should like to oblige you. I would be dead but for your intervention.\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman looked up at him. Her eyes opened wide.<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? Well\u2014there is something. But\u2026hey. You don\u2019t have to do <\/em>anything for me. I just did what any person would do.\u201d<\/p>\n

The ridiculousness of that statement made Alman smile. He saw the young woman lean back, sighing.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo what happened? I just heard Magnolia kicked the riot back into Invrisil. That was\u2026bad of her. I don\u2019t like her, but I didn\u2019t think she was evil.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lords] exchange a glance. Uncomfortably, they saw Bethal\u2014and the young [Lady] with the fiery hair looking at them. Lord Ranga cleared his throat.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2014were trying to force Reinhart to end her [Trade War].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWow. That was never going to work.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin commented. The [Lord] narrowed his eyes; gratitude only went so far. Lord Toldos sat there.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was a fool\u2019s errand, I suppose. Still\u2014if we hadn\u2019t angered her\u2026the riots were our fault. She would have listened to reason if\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He trailed off. And Erin looked at him. Really\u2026looked<\/em> at him. Her easy smile vanished.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026What did you just say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the news, the riots were said to have ended after law reasserted itself. A rather shaken Noass and Sir Relz reported that. They\u2019d missed the fighting, having hidden in the sewers.<\/p>\n

They looked more aware of their roles now, and culpability they shared. But the [Commentators] still made a point of showing the living [Lords], safely ensconced in the inn.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026We\u2019re returning to Pallass now. And once again\u2014I think this is a learning experience. The\u2014the synchronization of these riots leaves us all with some soul-searching, however just the reasons, right Sir Relz?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAbsolutely. We have to condemn violence such as this in unequivocal terms. I\u2019m only glad that good Samaritans like this young [Innkeeper] exist.\u201d<\/p>\n

Sir Relz gestured at Erin, who was folding her arms and glowering<\/em> at the [Lords]. But they left it at that.<\/p>\n

To most people\u2014it was just the ending to some drama. They wouldn\u2019t even glance twice at Erin\u2019s face, except to maybe comment how lucky she was or venture that she was the [Innkeeper] with the magic door. Someone to remember, maybe.<\/p>\n

For Archmage Nailihuaile, Erin Solstice\u2019s name and face was burned into her retinas. The Lamia Archmage sat in front of her personal scrying orb.<\/p>\n

\u201cAn ordinary [Innkeeper]. With a magic door. Hm. Beatrice? What did Montressa\u2019s last report say about this Erin Solstice?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lamia brightly turned to a Dullahan. She\u2019d taken Beatrice under her wing. The Dullahan bowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe reported that after investigation, Erin Solstice was not<\/em> from Earth. Her original reports were in error, due to Erin Solstice meeting<\/em> those from Earth and learning recipes. She is sheltering this \u2018Joseph\u2019 in her inn, but Montressa has been unable to make contact due to the Ullsinoi faction\u2019s influence and complications in Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cComplications in Liscor\u2026? Ah, that fight with those adventurers she was after. She didn\u2019t get them either, did she?\u201d<\/p>\n

Beatrice\u2019s grip closed on the notes.<\/p>\n

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

Nailihuaile affected not to notice. She was good at that, especially around Viltach and Feor. She looked at Erin Solstice.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, well. You know something, Beatrice?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Archmage Nailihuaile. What is it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lamia sighed. Beatrice was no fun. She was very competent\u2014but not fun.<\/em> Montressa could be fun.<\/p>\n

\u201cBeza\u2019s report says the same thing. The Scriptels shared it with me. And you know\u2014I<\/em> think Montressa is lying. Lying through her teeth. About this \u2018Pisces\u2019 fellow that we expelled. About Erin. I think she\u2019s become a bit traitorous.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled brightly. Beatrice\u2019s expression was thunderous. She stared as Sir Relz and Noass returned to Pallass.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat will you do, Archmage Nailihuaile?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cCall me Naili, I keep telling you, Beatrice!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lamia laughed lightly. She slithered over to the orb and disconnected it. Then she turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think I should make sure. With someone other than Bezale or dear Mons. And before Viltach and Feor wise up\u2014if they haven\u2019t already. And when I do\u2014if Montressa has been lying to me?\u201d<\/p>\n

Her smile was very happy. But Beatrice saw the gleam in the Lamia\u2019s eyes. Like a serpent.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Montressa may just have to be expelled from Wistram too. Beatrice, let\u2019s find out. I hope she\u2019s been honest. She is your friend, after all.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Dullahan woman looked at the dead orb. She shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe was, Archmage.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erin Solstice was angry. She was indignant. She was many things. But at the end of it all\u2014she wasn\u2019t going to kick the [Lords] out of her inn.<\/p>\n

Not just<\/em> yet. She sat in her inn, arms folded. The [Lords] looked at her.<\/p>\n

They did not like being judged<\/em>. Magnolia had judged them and they had hated her for it. Somehow, this young woman was worse. Magnolia had contempt. Erin had disappointment.<\/p>\n

\u201cOver a [Trade War]? People died.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPeople\u2026are dying, Miss Solstice. Perhaps not directly. But our lands cry out for want of resources. Invrisil is a trading hub. We have given Reinhart offense. But I hoped she would relent.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Toldos inclined his head at her. She narrowed her eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cCouldn\u2019t you have just apologized?<\/em> That was what she wanted, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cApologize?\u201d<\/p>\n

It was as if they were speaking different languages. The [Lords] looked aghast. Lord Toldos hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cI stand by my insult, Miss Erin. What Magnolia Reinhart did was, to me, an affront. Perhaps I should have made reparations. I would have if this failed. Now? I fear apologies will be the least of what she requires.\u201d<\/p>\n

The other [Lords] went still. Gloomily, they nodded. They had the air of a defeated squad, to Embria, who had come to check on her father. Relc was in a good mood, despite losing his entire apartment. Or perhaps it was an act. But he was rubbing Mrsha\u2019s head and smiling. For now.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s going to happen?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin looked at Maviola. The [Lady], whose hair was almost a match for Embria\u2019s scales in places, made a face.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I know Magnolia, it will be\u2026costly reparations, Erin. Magnolia Reinhart will likely keep up the [Trade War] at least another week or two. Perhaps a month. And then lower it for a number of concessions. Political or otherwise.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lords] flinched. But they were beaten. Perhaps they might rally in time, but the near-death experience had humbled them. Erin looked at them and then at Maviola and Bethal.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut that\u2019s just bullying.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMagnolia does that. Only, not on the battlefield like Tyrion, but with gold. At least she doesn\u2019t kill her enemies. Usually.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bethal looked unconcerned. Even unsympathetic; she was on the side of the rioters in large. The [Lords] had caused a mess and this was just deserts.<\/p>\n

Erin understood that too. But she wished that no one had died. Liscor was a mess. Pallass was okay, but Chaldion\u2026and now Invrisil. She sat down at the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cI get that. It just sort of sucks.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe were insulted first. You cannot know how severe of an insult it was, Miss Erin. Given the circumstances, I would normally seek vengeance. But one [Lord] has died already and Thomast is, unfortunately, disinclined to add to that number. I might not be.\u201d<\/p>\n

Bethal\u2019s eyes glittered. All the [Lords] stared at the [Chevalier]. And they looked around.<\/p>\n

When you came down to it, Liscor<\/em> was the city over this entire affair. Liscor would have fallen but for Lord Tyrion being held hostage by Magnolia. And so they had insulted her, only to be saved at the last moment by\u2026a Human girl from Liscor.<\/p>\n

There was something odd about that. Ironic, even. But for now, the men just looked at each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cLady Walcha\u00eds. We are not rich in lands like your House. If I may be candid\u2014we are at Invrisil\u2019s mercy. May I assure you the black flower pertained only to your actions around the siege? Not the Sacrifice of Roses?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou may. I hold a grudge, Alman.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady]\u2019s retort made the weary Lord of House Sanito flinch. Erin felt compelled at this point to show some mercy.<\/p>\n

\u201cLook\u2014I guess you could say Magnolia did do wrong things. But no one\u2019s in the right here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat a brilliant way of distilling every political dispute.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lyonette muttered sourly from the back. Maviola stifled a laugh. The [Lords] stilled.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere is little more recourse. I shall ride back after purchasing a horse. My house is in your debt, Miss Erin. I\u2014I wonder if there is a way to avoid going through Invrisil? I should return, but not directly.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Toldos rose to his feet. He looked tired. Erin hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou don\u2019t have to go yet. I didn\u2019t mean all those things I shouted. Well, I did\u2014but I was angry. Stay the night. I can move the door so in the morning you\u2019re outside of Invrisil. Where\u2019s your home? If it\u2019s far, we can\u2019t move the door more than a couple of miles, but we can at least get you away from people who want to kill you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Toldos and the other [Lords] blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cMove\u2026the door? You said you sacrificed one.\u201d<\/p>\n

Alman carefully reached for another pizza slice. Mrsha snatched it again and raced off over to Relc. She liked the garlic-sprinkled ones.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, I can move the door. Not much further than Invrisil, but it has a huge<\/em> radius. I just put it at Invrisil because it\u2019s convenient, see? But if you\u2019re south of Invrisil I might even be able to get it to your home.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMy estates are south of Invrisil.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Ranga raised his hand. Erin nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cCool! If it\u2019s too far west or east\u2014same problem. But what if I\u2026darn. Who can I get to move the door? What if we paid Hawk\u2014he\u2019s this Courier\u2014but he might want to be with Selys\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAny City Runner could take the door south. Or anyone with a wagon, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola remarked softly. She was glancing at Erin. And she had a thought. Some of the other [Lords] had it too. Toldos was checking his cup of blue fruit juice, nearly empty.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou only need the stone anyways. The doors can be set up.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd, pray\u2026is there a limit? To what can be sent?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYup. Used to be I could send two people over and door goes dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lords] deflated. Erin went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2026<\/em>I\u2019ve improved the door with the help of this [Farmer] I know. Wailant. He planted Sage\u2019s Grass and now it can do like, fourteen, and recharges quick. And you can use a [Mage] to recharge it faster. Don\u2019t worry! We can get you all to Lord Ranga\u2019s place.\u201d<\/p>\n

She was oblivious to the mood moving through the inn. Lyonette was looking at Maviola, gesticulating, and the [Lords] were coughing, glancing at each other. Lady Bethal was the last to catch on. Her jaw dropped and she sat up.<\/p>\n

\u201cWait a minute. Could you then transport goods through the door?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin looked blankly at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cNah. I mean\u2014I could. But the Merchant\u2019s Guild got really<\/em> mad at me the last time, so I stopped. Anyways, the door has a mana limit! That\u2019s for people!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut perhaps\u2014if someone were to pay for the\u2026access. One could in theory, transport some goods through the door?\u201d<\/p>\n

Lord Alman remarked carefully. Erin\u2019s brows creased. Finally\u2014finally\u2014she looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026yes. I suppose they could. But Magnolia wouldn\u2019t like\u2026it\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

A thoughtful silence fell around the room. Everyone exchanged a meeting of the eyes. A nudge. Mrsha gave Lord Toldos a tap on the nose. He blinked at her. Numbtongue grinned from behind the bar and toasted Relc. The Drake raised a thumb-claw and grinned.<\/p>\n

Magnolia Reinhart wouldn\u2019t like it indeed. But of those who cared in this place? Perhaps it was only Lady Bethal. Slowly, the [Lords] turned to Erin Solstice. Lord Toldos was the one to say it.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Erin. We have debts to pay, it seems. We have erred gravely. Had our [Ladies] spoken to us\u2014or been with us still\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

His face twisted. He went on.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014We would have known better. Age makes fools of better men than I. But I hope you will at least listen to our request. Would you\u2026care to discuss a business offer that might solve our woes? It stands to benefit you as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice stood there. She looked at the [Lords] who started a riot. Silly men. But not evil<\/em> men. Just desperate. Sometimes stupid. Rather like rioters. And with very real reasons for anger, sometimes.<\/p>\n

Just misdirected. Could she forgive that? Well, the answer stood in Montressa, Beza, Palt. Friends like Relc.<\/p>\n

So she thought for a moment. And then she smiled. They were not perfect men. But she saw people. <\/em>And people changed.<\/p>\n

Pieces on a board. So she moved one and spoke.<\/em><\/p>\n

Her reply would make Magnolia Reinhart well and truly lose her temper. Yet there she danced. A young woman, laughing and tap-dancing on a flaming stage. Aided and abetted by Maviola. Bringing the best-laid plans to destruction.<\/p>\n

Chaos. A kindly [Innkeeper]. The owner of The Wandering Inn.<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Magical Innkeeper Level 44!]<\/p>\n

[Skill \u2013 Inn: Compartments of Holding obtained!]<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Conditions Met: Warrior \u2192 Bannerlady Class!]<\/p>\n

[Class Consolidation: Warrior removed.]<\/p>\n

[Bannerlady Class obt\u2014<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cNope. But yes to [Innkeeper]. Ooh. Oooh! <\/em>Numbtongue, guess what!?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Author\u2019s Notes: <\/strong>And we\u2019re done! Wow. This chapter kicked my butt.<\/p>\n

But not as much as the last one. I erased about 5,000 words from the last chapter because it sucked. Also, I didn\u2019t have enough snacks and it clouded my judgment.<\/p>\n

This is what the shape of what I envisioned looked like. It might not be as good as I wanted, even now. But it makes me feel better than last time. At least I\u2019m not writing that I feel poorly about it.<\/p>\n

Hope you liked it! I\u2019m going to leave you with something special: a picture by Enyavar. It\u2019s a map\u2026of Liscor.<\/em> I\u2019m talking everything. Streets, buildings\u2014our [Cartographer] made it from scratch! Take a look and compliment him! The full-size version has details!<\/em> Also, I’m sharing only one of pkay’s new pictures becaus it…fits. General Solstice. Just amazing.<\/p>\n

Enjoy, let me know what you thought, and thanks for reading!<\/p>\n

https:\/\/ko-fi.com\/peekay<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Liscor by Enyavar the [Cartographer]!<\/strong><\/p>\n

(Full-size Version)<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\"Liscor<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

General Solstice by pkay!<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"General<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

Previous Chapter<\/a> Next Chapter<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

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