{"id":8517,"date":"2020-07-05T03:28:06","date_gmt":"2020-07-05T03:28:06","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/localhost\/wandering-inn\/?p=8517"},"modified":"2025-12-24T01:01:27","modified_gmt":"2025-12-24T01:01:27","slug":"7-32-d","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/wanderinginn.com\/2020\/07\/05\/7-32-d\/","title":{"rendered":"7.32 D"},"content":{"rendered":"

(A preview of Volume 2 is now up on Soundcloud! Check it out here!<\/a> The audiobook will be release July 14th!)<\/strong><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Selphids. The Bodysnatchers of Baleros. Parasitic, one of the most mysterious races in the world. And one of the most reviled, distrusted\u2014<\/p>\n

Well, not as bad as Demons. Not as bad at all. Selphids were still citizens. Just\u2014you couldn\u2019t trust them since they lived in dead bodies. They used to use live ones. Tyrants.<\/p>\n

Almost as bad as half-Elves and their empires. Or those damn Minotaurs. And Humans. Don\u2019t forget the Dragonwars and Drakes. Really, when you got down to it, though, Selphids were just unappealing. Of course, the Antinium<\/em> were worse, but\u2014<\/p>\n

But Selphids were universally distrusted. It went beyond a simple interspecies conflict. There was something about Selphids\u2014their malleable forms, the way they used host vessels that clashed with most other species\u2019 sensibilities. Selphids were as alien as Antinium\u2014no. Moreso.<\/p>\n

Until now, Geneva Scala had viewed it as a kind of backwards prejudice. Until recently\u2014she had seen Selphids as a people like any other. Full of good and bad.<\/p>\n

Now, she thought differently. As a species\u2014Selphids were people. But the [Doctor]\u2019s thesis was this:<\/p>\n

The nature of the way they controlled bodies meant that a relationship between host and Selphid was unequal. By the basic distribution of power, there could be no balance. And so\u2014Selphids as a people were not inherently born or spawned evil. But the threat to their species, the way they interacted with their hosts, and their desperation made them poor overlords.<\/p>\n

Or good ones. Geneva Scala straightened from another case of Yellow Rivers. She was tired. Her hand rose and wiped at a bead of sweat on her head before it could sting her eyes.<\/p>\n

Geneva hadn\u2019t done that. The hand produced some antiseptic; she washed her gloves.<\/p>\n

\u201cWater.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] said it. Not Geneva. It was her voice, her distinct, brusque tone. A Lizardgirl hurried over.<\/p>\n

\u201cWater, Doctor Scala?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOnce I\u2019m out of my gear. I\u2019m dehydrated. Water\u2014a snack\u2014this patient needs\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Her voice trailed off. And Geneva Scala, who had been musing, feeling her body do all these things, waited another thirty seconds. When she spoke, it was softly.<\/p>\n

\u201cMore liquids. More hydration; we can\u2019t do more at this moment.\u201d<\/p>\n

She felt her head nod. The Lizardgirl bowed, and hurried off to get the electrolyte-solution that Geneva had worked up to replenish the loss of fluids the Yellow River\u2019s fever and oozing discharge caused. Geneva Scala walked into the cleansing area and began to strip down.<\/p>\n

\u201cI have more patients to attend to.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva spoke to herself. She didn\u2019t stop removing her gear\u2014the resin-like armor that covered her from head-to-toe, preventing the spread of disease, or at least, slowing it. She heard a voice in her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know, Geneva. But remember\u2014we have to take care of you. <\/em>I\u2019ll eat and drink for you if you want.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo thank you, Idis. I can do that myself.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure! Let me know if I can help, Geneva. Remember: you have to sleep in four hours!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid cheerfully spoke up. And Geneva wondered if she\u2019d have snapped at Okasha for doing less. No, certainly she would have. She missed Okasha. She regretted a lot of things. She was a prisoner, with a kindlier warden. But stricter rules. And that was a terrible thing. But worse\u2014<\/p>\n

Her patients were dying.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is the Yellow Rivers disease? I\u2019m sorry if the topic of this broadcast becomes distasteful to our audience. If you\u2019re troubled, I encourage you to tune in next time.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

The voice from the scrying orb echoed through The Wandering Inn as Mrsha and Numbtongue ate breakfast. Noass went on, shuffling his notes.<\/p>\n

\u201cHowever, we have to bring this disease to the attention of the public, as is our duty.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

He leaned forwards on one claw, addressing the screen, looking serious. Mrsha patted Numbtongue. The [Goblin Soulbard] nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cSilly Drake.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe understand now, that there are tens of thousands of\u2014of cases of infected peoples at most ports worldwide. It\u2019s fair to say this disease has spread without warning or understanding across every continent! Its roots are in Baleros, and what we have next may shock you. We encourage children and those faint of heart to not look at the following scenes. This is an image of the disease\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Numbtongue stopped eating. Mrsha\u2019s hair stood up and she leapt off his head. She felt a gagging nausea in her stomach. Noass also should have said \u2018people should not eat while watching<\/em>\u2019.<\/p>\n

It was a public service announcement. The second in this world, if you counted the Golden Triangle thing. And Numbtongue was watching through The Wandering Inn\u2019s brand new scrying orb, bought from Hedault at a discount. And regretting it.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, Liscor\u2019s got lots of fish in the spring. And it has good cattle and stuff. But not much<\/em>. So what\u2019s it got?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Shield Spiders reduced the availability of [Shepherds] and [Ranchers], Miss Solstice. The same with farming. I\u2019m sorry to say that the city hasn\u2019t been an agricultural hotspot for\u2026a long time. The destruction of so many nests might change that, but we won\u2019t be exporting for a long time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, where do I get my food from, huh? They want food. Who\u2019s got food?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI do. How much money are we talking here?\u201d<\/p>\n

A satisfied [Farmer]-[Pirate] smirked around. Erin, a Drake, and a flame-haired woman looked at him. The [Innkeeper] turned to Teliv again.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay, Wailant\u2019s got crops, but we need more<\/em> [Farmers]. All these [Lords] want other stuff too. Ore. Uh\u2026candles. Lots of stuff. Sugar.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Negotiator] smoothed the spines on the back of his neck. Teliv glanced at Maviola, but the [Lady] had been rather quiet. Which relieved him. Erin Solstice looked justifiably confused and concerned; she had a trade deal, but nothing to trade.<\/p>\n

Which obviously left the onus of power on the seller. Which was Liscor. Wailant was a complication, but Teliv\u2019s voice grew silky as he began to leverage a Skill.<\/p>\n

[First Reasonable Offer].<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cLiscor\u2019s Council has authorized me to negotiate on behalf of the city. We\u2019re obviously interested<\/em> in trade, but given the complexities of supplying Human [Lords], you must understand the prices will be higher, Miss Solstice. Nevertheless, we can do business.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd I have lots to sell. Let me just call up some of my [Farmers] and we can do a deal. Better than Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wailant interrupted, pushing the Drake to one side. The [Negotiator] blinked; but Strongheart was strong-arming him. Or attempting to.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me, sir. I believe Liscor has a priority on this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wailant blinked as the Drake moved him back.<\/em> And Wailant was a big man. But you couldn\u2019t just push a good [Negotiator] aside. Or even a mediocre one.<\/p>\n

Erin chewed on her lip.<\/p>\n

\u201cI just dunno, guys. Getting food to the [Lords] is important. So\u2014so Liscor has food and Celum, or Wailant, has food. If we put it through the inn\u2019s door, that\u2019s easy, right? Everyone makes money. The [Lords] pay for it, and we\u2019re all happy? Right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Wailant and Teliv glanced at each other and tried not to smile. Teliv produced a contract he\u2019d been sweating over just an hour ago.<\/p>\n

\u201cActually, Miss Solstice, we could do a very<\/em> reasonable contract. You\u2019d earn money on each transport, and Liscor would take the burden of managing the shipping and rates.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh! So, like, I just get paid for people using my door and you set the prices?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] brightened. Wailant opened his mouth\u2014Teliv used his third Skill to silence the man.<\/p>\n

\u201cExactly.<\/em> No bother. Money for all.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGreat! Let me just see the contract\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Teliv handed her the quill and contract. Smiling, Erin regarded the contract. She raised the quill. Blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, no ink. Too bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me just get that for\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Wailant growled. Teliv fumbled for the inkpot. Erin smiled as he yanked the cork open.<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Teliv.\u201d<\/p>\n

She dipped the quill in ink. Then she wrote on the contract. Teliv practically snatched it back. He crowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Miss Solstice! You won\u2019t regr\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

He stared at the contract. But instead of the signature, he saw, in large letters, \u2018no thanks\u2019 scrawled on the parchment. Erin smiled at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaviola, you were right.<\/em> It is<\/em> easy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTold you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Lady] looked pleased. She\u2019d been worried when Erin picked up the quill. Now, though, the [Innkeeper] winked at her. She looked at Teliv.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo I\u2019d get four coppers<\/em> per shipment? That means you could make one \u2018shipment\u2019 as big as you wanted and I get four coppers per each. No weight limit, no time limit. Also\u2014that\u2019s not very fair if it takes all the magic from my door. What if you put diamonds<\/em> through the door, huh?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014but\u2014Miss Solstice, let me explain.\u201d<\/p>\n

Teliv\u2019s good mood turned into sweat in a second. Erin Solstice was looking at him. And suddenly, her eager, somewhat befuddled manner turned sharp. His [Negotiator] senses were telling him\u2026he was in trouble.<\/p>\n

\u201cI get it. And Wailant!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, Erin? Let me just say that I\u2019ll give you a far<\/em> better deal on behalf of Celum. Far better.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Farmer] was beaming at Teliv\u2019s expense. Erin turned to him. She put her hands on her hips and looked up at the former-[Pirate].<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sure you will. Why don\u2019t you tell me what you had in mind?\u201d<\/p>\n

He opened his mouth and Erin pointed a finger at him.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014And when you do<\/em>, I\u2019ll compare it with the deal each [Farmer] would have offered me. After all, I can just move the door to their farms, right? Who put you in charge?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin! We\u2019re friends, aren\u2019t we? I\u2019m just here to make sure those Drakes don\u2019t run off with the farm! So to speak. My contacts\u2019ll be along shortly. But I\u2019m here to\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGet ahead?\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola murmured. Erin saw Wailant\u2019s eyes flicker. She sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cGuys, guys. I don\u2019t want this to be complicated.\u201d<\/p>\n

Wailant and Teliv brightened. Erin went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I do want this to be fair.<\/em> Equitable! No one overcharges anyone else. Even if the [Lords] are\u2026uh, [Lords], they\u2019re hurting for money. So no one\u2019s doubling their prices and we\u2019re not having huge taxes or anything. Here\u2019s what I had in mind\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

She handed over a folded piece of paper she and Maviola had been working on. Wailant and Teliv jostled to see. They began to raise objections at once. Erin put her hands on her hips.<\/p>\n

Another day. In the background, the negotiations were taking place. But that was background.<\/em> Mrsha tugged Lyonette over, pointing.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat is it, Mrsha? I\u2019m trying to listen to the trade deal. Oh, pox!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Lyonette recoiled at the images on screen. Numbtongue was making a face and gagging. Lyonette covered her mouth. The view switched back to Noass, who was looking pale. He dabbed at his nose with a handkerchief.<\/p>\n

\u201cAppalling images, dear viewers. However, [Healers] across the world are attempting to combat this illness. We\u2019re going now to an interview with Pallass\u2019 own top [Healer]. Sir Relz is conducting the interview. Sir Relz?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The image shifted. Now, Sir Relz stood, holding a little speaking stone with one claw. He was half-turned towards a nervous Gnoll. She jumped.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026And we\u2019re ready. Healer Demerra, you are now <\/em>on broadcast. Can you tell us about your take on this disease? Pallass has reported six cases, but I understand there are over a thousand in Zeres; mainly from ships. It appears the Yellow Rivers illness\u2014I hesitate to call it a plague\u2014isn\u2019t spread solely via, er, intercourse. How can we stop it? Can it be healed?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

A hand came down on the scrying orb. Both Mrsha and Numbtongue protested, but the [Princess] glowered as she lifted the orb.<\/p>\n

\u201cDreadful. Mrsha, you shouldn\u2019t watch this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Mrsha protested. She was big enough! She just wanted to show Lyonette the nasty yellow disease! Sir Relz was listening to Demerra\u2019s explanation as the Gnoll stared into the scrying orb.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Lyonette,<\/em> it\u2019s important! If Pallass has the disease, Liscor might too! We want to watch! Please?\u201d<\/p>\n

The pleading didn\u2019t come from Mrsha. Rather, it came from Drassi, who\u2019d been watching for gossip material as she served drinks. Lyonette hesitated, then sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue, if it gets\u2026if it\u2019s unsuitable, you turn it off. Got it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMhm.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Hobgoblin craned his neck around the orb as Lyonette put it back. Mrsha, Drassi, and Numbtongue crowded around; a few other patrons of the inn were watching as well.<\/p>\n

\u201cDiscount for Octavia? I don\u2019t have to\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Wailant roared from the table where he was negotiating. Erin argued back. Mrsha threw a wadded up cloth napkin at them so they\u2019d shut up. Everyone else leaned closer as the broadcast continued.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014believe I have a cure. I\u2019ve treated cases of this Yellow Rivers disease, and while it <\/em>may be spreading, my magical crystals have reversed the illness\u2019 effects in my patients.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gnoll, Demerra, was brandishing a crystal and explaining the homeopathic effects and benefits. Sir Relz was nodding as she went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cI believe a crystal will enhance the body\u2019s natural capabilities, preventing or at least decreasing the likelihood of catching this illness. I am selling them, and Salazsar and Fissival both export high-quality crystals. Moreover, my healing beds have also cured three of the sick people and they are completely healthy.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake sighed in relief and adjusted his monocle.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere you have it, folks. That\u2019s our [Healer]\u2019s response. Back to you, Noass.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Sir Relz! Now, we\u2019ll be going to interviewing some survivors and getting takes from around the world on the issue. First\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

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

—-<\/em><\/p>\n

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

Geneva Scala nearly smashed the scrying orb. Only Idis stopped her\u2014and Paige.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva! We spent too much on it! Calm down!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] stared at her shaking hand. Idis didn\u2019t stop her tongue, though.<\/p>\n

\u201cHomeopathic crystals?<\/em> Those don\u2019t stop the disease! They might<\/em> fight off the bacteria, but it\u2019s airborne.<\/em> It\u2019s mutated! How many people can afford a bed of those crystals, anyways? What about quarantine? What about the \u2018cured\u2019 carriers<\/em> who could be spreading the disease?\u201d<\/p>\n

What made her so furious was that the Gnoll was half-right. In this world healing crystals were real and they worked.<\/em> But her solution wasn\u2019t scalable. Geneva had been corresponding with other [Healers] who used healing crystals among other solutions and a bed of them would<\/em> supercharge the immune system like a number of Skills, including Geneva\u2019s own, which would halt the bacteria\u2019s advance and give the body time to recover.<\/p>\n

However. So many people were falling sick that unless the price of healing crystals dropped by about 83%, it wouldn\u2019t be feasible to treat people.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt least they\u2019re talking about it, Geneva. Half the cities you were reaching out to were denying there was even a pandemic.\u201d<\/p>\n

Siri sat at the table, appraising the situation. As the [Doctor] cooled down, she still glowered at the images in the orb.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is worse, though. People will be buying the crystals, taking away from [Healers] who need them. And\u2014they\u2019ll assume they\u2019re safe! They need to be corrected. Let me <\/em>talk to\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDenied!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The voice rang out in Geneva\u2019s head. Idis\u2019 bright, cheerful tone. Geneva\u2019s voice cut off. And she heard and felt her words change.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014nevermind. It\u2019s too risky.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige blinked. But she nodded, relieved.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe discussed that, Geneva. The broadcast is going through Wistram.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva nodded tightly. It was even how she\u2019d have reacted.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know. I got overworked. Forget about it.\u201d<\/p>\n

She hadn\u2019t said that.<\/em> Idis spoke into Geneva\u2019s head, a buzzing, tiny voice in her ears.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry, Geneva. Calectus told you, we can\u2019t risk word about you getting out.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She\u2019d overridden Geneva\u2019s vocal chords and play-acted as her. The others, who\u2019d been sitting around the table hadn\u2019t even noticed.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva, even if these treatments do not\u2026work perfectly. Surely the fact that there are multiple ways to treat the disease is good, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ken spoke up. The meeting of the United Nations company was here to address this very issue. Geneva rubbed tiredly at her face. Not from physical exhaustion; she\u2019d gotten nine hours of sleep thanks to Idis. As she had for the last week. But she was mentally tired. Stressed out.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014It is, Ken. The Yellow Rivers disease isn\u2019t as bad as it could be. It\u2019s bacterial, not viral, the mortality rate if treated<\/em> isn\u2019t high. But it requires supervision; the disease provokes fevers, diarrhea\u2014all killers in places with insufficient access to clean water and medical treatment. The worst problem is how fast<\/em> it spread and how long it takes to recover from. Take Aiko, for instance.\u201d<\/p>\n

The others nodded. Aiko was one of the [Nurses] working under Geneva who\u2019d contracted the disease. Ken looked concerned, but she was in a dedicated wing of the company building now quarantined. And she was\u2026fine.<\/p>\n

Well, not fine <\/em>fine. She was running a fever, but Geneva had three massive citrines sitting around her and the other patients which a [Healer] had sent. They had kept the fever down and Aiko was recovering faster. If Geneva could buy more crystals, she would.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014Talenqual already has more patients than I can handle, Ken. And the clinic can\u2019t even keep up with the serious cases.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEven with the expansion?\u201d<\/p>\n

That came from Luan. He had a bandage over his head and a scowl on his face; he\u2019d been attacked when he\u2019d done his last delivery. The bounty on his head was still extant. Geneva shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Selphids, [Nurses], and volunteers\u2026still can\u2019t keep up with an influx of thousands, Luan. Especially when it takes weeks per infected person.\u201d<\/p>\n

Now, she had resources. Volunteers had come in from other cities. And The Bodies of Fellden,<\/em> a small but elite company of Selphids had entered the city for the express purpose of helping Geneva and learning from her.<\/p>\n

And safeguarding her to make sure she could help them.<\/em> But no one knew that. \u2018Okasha\u2019 and Geneva had pretended to be pleased with the situation.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe issue is getting a cure, Luan. If we have that, then we can scale up treatment and speed recovery. Without it\u2014the rate of infection will surpass any attempt at a cure. Already, people are dying for lack of treatment. If I was overseeing a major city, I would order a quarantine while I searched for a cure.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026And if you didn\u2019t have it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly.<\/em> Geneva looked at him. She shook her head slowly. It was tense between them. Or so the others seemed to believe. But Geneva\u2019s issues with Daly seemed ages ago. If she could have told him about Idis\u2014she would.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I didn\u2019t have a cure, Daly, I would hold the quarantine because there is no other option. And I would advise the leaders of the city to expect a 20% mortality rate.\u201d<\/p>\n

The table fell silent. Geneva inhaled, exhaled, slowly. She felt too calm.<\/em> Or rather; Idis was keeping her heart from pounding, her body from flooding with stressful hormones and adrenaline, cortisol, etc.<\/p>\n

\u201cAntibiotics.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Geneva. No one\u2019s found anything yet. And we have [Healers] and [Alchemists]\u2014even [Herbalists] and [Explorers] looking for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ken spoke up apologetically. Geneva shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026know you\u2019re trying, Ken. I appreciate it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just can\u2019t believe this world doesn\u2019t have a general antibiotic.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige muttered distractedly, turning down the volume on the scrying orb but letting it run. Geneva saw it flickering to a Human, speaking to a [Mage]. She shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy theory is that it was never necessary, Paige. The Yellow Rivers disease\u2014or even a magical virus\u2014would never hurt the wealthy significantly. There are<\/em> healing potions capable of purging even infection. Some can regrow limbs. I\u2019ve talked with [Alchemists] and there are apparently potions that can reverse aging. But they\u2019re rare.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFucking hell.\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly muttered. Geneva sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026In the same way, high-level Skills or that Gnoll [Healer] can cure someone who has enough money. It\u2019s just not a solution for people without money.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSupply and demand at its finest. Now here we are, with the world\u2019s best [Doctor] and everyone turning to you when a month ago they didn\u2019t give you the time of day. Geneva, anything we can do\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Luan trailed off. The [Doctor]\u2019s lips twitched.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet me more healing crystals. Beyond that? Keep asking about penicillin-equivalents. Thank you for your time. But there\u2019s nothing more I can do. I cede the floor.\u201d<\/p>\n

She sat down. She felt herself relax.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood job, Geneva. We\u2019re all here to help!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The cheery voice in her head was Idis again. Geneva even felt<\/em> better. She pinched her arm.<\/p>\n

Stop that.<\/em> Idis stopped releasing whatever she was doing into Geneva\u2019s bloodstream.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy turn, I guess. I\u2019ve uh, tried to get in contact with Joseph. We sent a coded [Message], but I don\u2019t think he got it. My guess is that he\u2019s gotten a lot<\/em> of fanmail. And I can\u2019t be more overt since Wistram apparently controls [Messages] too.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige raised her hand and stood. Geneva listened; they knew Joseph, the boy who\u2019d been playing soccer, was from Earth. Or at least, everyone assumed so. Daly grimaced.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan\u2019t we hire a Courier or something, Luan?\u201d<\/p>\n

The South African man shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. How much gold do you have, Daly? We still need to send a [Message] unless you want to hire someone from Baleros. And you don\u2019t<\/em> have that much money. Plus, if we ask a Courier, people will want to know what\u2019s so secret.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDamn.\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly leaned back in his chair and nearly went over. Ken smiled around, but looking exasperated.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt is almost like being secretive is hard.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Everyone laughed at that, which was what he\u2019d intended. Paige fiddled with a pencil she\u2019d made; superior to quills or charcoal sticks for notes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I did some digging and I have more people on the list. R\u00e9mi Canada,<\/em> the Singer of Terandria\u2014both safe bets are from Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhoa. I\u2019ve heard of the Singer. Can we get in touch with them?\u201d<\/p>\n

The others sat up. Geneva heard a small voice in her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cWow.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Unconsciously, Geneva bit her tongue. Hard. But she felt her jaws unclench. And the voice from Idis again.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t be nervous, Geneva! Calectus won\u2019t tell! We\u2019re on your side, remember?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

There was a spy in this room. And it was Geneva herself. She wished she could write a message on a piece of paper, or tell the others in a coded fashion somehow. But how did you outwit someone in your body?<\/p>\n

A code. Using a cipher, and fake references from home, Geneva had constructed a logical conversation to use with Ken.<\/p>\n

\u2018Hey Ken, remember how Pearl Harbor was the start of the Japan-American alliance?\u2019 <\/em>And then using that fallacy, mention \u2018Okasha\u2019 to tip him off that she wasn\u2019t<\/em> Okasha. Either that, or waiting for Idis to fall asleep and write a secret note. Or<\/em>\u2026<\/p>\n

The problem wasn\u2019t revealing Idis. The problem was that you couldn\u2019t get the Selphids out of Geneva, even if you knew about her. And there were over two hundred Selphids in Talenqual, all powerful. They were better allies than not. So Geneva sat, and listened. And when it was over\u2014she said goodbye to the others. And then Idis went to report to Calectus.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cDancing Serpent to Fast Hooves, come in. The Lantern has left the building. Repeat\u2014\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

A Lizardgirl stared at the [Doctor] as she walked out of the United Nations headquarters and walked down the street. She whispered urgently into a speaking stone. An aggravated sigh was her response.<\/p>\n

\u201cUmina\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFast Hooves, come in.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUmina, I\u2019m not doing that. If our speaking stones are compromised, we\u2019re already identified. Stop calling me nicknames.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMarian, come on.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lizardgirl [Strategist]\u2019s voice was disappointed. She heard the clip-clop of hooves as Marian paced back and forth somewhere.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere\u2019s she going? Geneva, that is.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm\u2026looks like the same place as last time. The Selphids.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHm. I see.\u201d<\/p>\n

Umina followed Geneva at a distance, blending into the crowds of Lizardfolk in Talenqual. Although\u2026there weren\u2019t as many crowds.<\/p>\n

They avoided each other, walking in smaller groups. The friendly Lizardfolk didn\u2019t even stop to chat. They were nervous.<\/p>\n

The Yellow Rivers disease ran through Talenqual.<\/em> By this point, even the Flying Brigade had stopped downplaying it. The city was quarantining. But more and more people were sick by the day. Umina, working undercover in Geneva\u2019s clinic, had heard the reports.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo wonder the Professor wanted us here, Marian. Geneva\u2019s the only person who seems to understand this\u2026bacteria? She\u2019s even got a name for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSounds like it. Did you catch the broadcast from Pallass?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI did. It goes against everything Geneva\u2019s been saying.\u201d<\/p>\n

Umina saw Geneva turn left. She eyed the [Doctor]. Umina was a big fan of listening and understanding before making a move. In the Professor\u2019s class, it had earned her a reputation for timidity. But now, she thought it was entirely appropriate.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are Cameral and Kissilt doing, do you know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTraining as adventurers in the Bushrangers group. They\u2019re ingratiating themselves with\u2026let me check my notes. Daly?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. I think they\u2019re going about it the wrong way.\u201d<\/p>\n

Marian\u2019s voice was conversational as she kept walking somewhere.<\/p>\n

\u201cI dunno. Kissilt is rather impressed with their leader. He says Daly has a different understanding of battle than most.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMarian! <\/em>Are you talking<\/em> with Kissilt?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYup. Don\u2019t shout, Umina. We\u2019re sharing information.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is our<\/em> mission!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lizardgirl howled into the speaking stone. She saw Geneva walking up to the place the Selphids had rented. Now\u2014Umina stopped. There were Selphids guarding the door, and they looked sharp.<\/em> She saw them wave Geneva in, instantly.<\/p>\n

\u201cLantern has entered the Dead Zone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026So she walked in the front door? I saw it too, Umina. I\u2019m right here.\u201d<\/p>\n

Umina jumped. She looked around and saw a Centauress waving at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cMariaaaan. <\/em>We\u2019re supposed to be split up!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lizardgirl complained as the two joined up. Marian sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cUmina, this isn\u2019t cloak-and-dagger stuff. We might as well make Miss Geneva our offer and be done with it. The other companies want her, the Professor wants her. That\u2019s all there is to it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut he sent us because no one\u2019s aware of her full value yet, Marian. And the more I see of her, the more I\u2019m convinced<\/em> she\u2019s got more to hide than even the Professor knows. Maybe he suspects, but did you think she had ties to the Selphids? The Bodies of Fellden are serious strength!\u201d<\/p>\n

Marian scratched at her mane of hair.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026That\u2019s true. They\u2019re supposed to be a Selphid-only company. If they came to help her<\/em>, she must be in with them. I wonder why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo clue. I wish Yerra\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The two broke off. Umina stared at the street. Marian cleared her throat after a second.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026What else do you notice, Umina?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lizardgirl snuffled. She wiped at her nostrils. Then she looked up.<\/p>\n

\u201cShe speaks of things no [Healer] does. I asked, and none of them know about bacterias.<\/em> Or\u2014half the things she talks about. She\u2019s knowledgeable, Marian. But who taught her? Is it a [Doctor] thing?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Centaur [Strategist] was nodding. Umina stared at the Selphids on duty.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd lastly\u2026why is she so fit?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

That made Marian snort.<\/p>\n

\u201cUmina. I\u2019m fit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. But you exercise.<\/em> You\u2019re a [Strategist] with [Ranger] levels, Marian.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Lizardgirl poked her friend\u2019s side. She looked at the door that Geneva had gone through with narrowed eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Geneva never exercises that I see her. So why does she have muscles?\u201d<\/p>\n

Marian gave Umina a blank look.<\/p>\n

\u201cMaybe she exercises outside of the times you see her, Umina? Not everything has a secret explanation.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMarian\u2026<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Niers Astoragon lost a chess game.<\/p>\n

To be fair, it was a difficult battle. He was renowned as the best player of the game in the world to most people\u2019s knowledge. And the best player in the world couldn\u2019t be beaten by an amateur, even on his worst day.<\/p>\n

His opponent was good. But Perorn Fleethoof, famed [Strategist] in her own right, couldn\u2019t help but feel that it was a weak victory. Not that she hadn\u2019t tried.<\/p>\n

But his game had been off. The Titan still applauded her. He smiled, laughed, and wasn\u2019t put out by his defeat.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell done, Perorn! I have to admit, that strategy doesn\u2019t work too well in every situation, does it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was far too aggressive.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Centauress nodded. They sat over the chess board. Both were advocates of the game. But Perorn couldn\u2019t help but notice how oddly Niers had played.<\/p>\n

\u201cEven for you, that felt like you pushed far too much, Niers. What possessed you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh\u2014I was actually copying a style from a game I\u2019d seen. A\u2026tiebreaker match. The winning side used this.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Fraerling looked smug, for some reason. Despite his loss. And he hated <\/em>losing. Perorn raised one eyebrow.<\/p>\n

\u201cYour mysterious opponent?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Fraerling fumbled one of the tiny pieces on the board. It was a compromise between their heights. The pieces were huge for him\u2014miniscule for Perorn. He glanced up at her, and she snorted.<\/p>\n

\u201cForget about it, Niers. Everyone knows about your \u2018mysterious opponent\u2019. I know you two communicate somehow. So, what was it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Titan pursed his lips, but then reclined in his chair.<\/p>\n

\u201cA splendid five games, Perorn. Well, I say five<\/em>, but those were the only wins and losses. It was draws the entire way down. But the final game was this. A tiebreaker.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the winner was\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s just say it was unexpected. S\u2014they pushed in hard<\/em>, and their opponent was taken aback by the aggressive play. I tried to recreate it here after seeing the copy of the games, but it obviously didn\u2019t work. It was more of a psychological victory than anything else, I\u2019m given to understand. But that\u2019s the indication of a master.\u201d<\/p>\n

The tiny [Strategist] indicated the board. Perorn eyed him. The old Fraerling looked happy. And she\u2026<\/p>\n

Didn\u2019t like it. The Centauress reset her side after a moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you\u2019re in a good mood about it. I wish you weren\u2019t.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you, Perorn? Are my good moods that abhorrent to you?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Titan of Baleros frowned up at the Centaur. She was resting on some pillows; he was sitting on the table they were playing on in his rooms. She looked down at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cFrankly? Yes. You do better when you\u2019re in a bad mood, Niers. I\u2019ve seen you win battles when you\u2019re spitting fire. When you\u2019re in a good mood, you make mistakes.\u201d<\/p>\n

He frowned, drumming his fingers on the armrest of his chair.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd the proof of that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI just beat you.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat was a one-time thing. I was recreating a style. Let\u2019s play again.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Perorn eyed the Titan. His good mood didn\u2019t abate, despite her words. She sensed it.<\/p>\n

Something was up.<\/em> He\u2019d been humming, praising his students in class\u2014and he was making plans in secret. Foliana, Perorn, Peclir\u2014all of the senior members of the Forgotten Wing Company suspected something. But what\u2026well, she thought she knew.<\/p>\n

He had figured out who his mysterious partner was. And that person was\u2014female. She sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cAbout this business with the Last Light of Baleros.\u201d<\/p>\n

Niers jumped. He nearly knocked over a pawn as he moved it. He stared at her, suspiciously.<\/p>\n

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

\u201cNiers.<\/em> You know I\u2019d find out. You sent Kissilt, Cameral, Umina\u2026do you think I wouldn\u2019t have noticed them missing from classes? This wasn\u2019t subtle.<\/em> So I looked into them. Why is a Selphid company in Talenqual?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey are? Wait\u2014damn. I should have reports on that!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Titan blinked. He sprang to his feet. Perorn saw him stride over to the cabinet of neatly-filed reports. He found the folder he wanted in a moment, opened it. She heard him swearing.<\/p>\n

And she got more nervous.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomething the matter?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026don\u2019t know why they\u2019re there. Damn. I didn\u2019t notice that, Perorn. I\u2019ve been occupied.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know.<\/em> Why are you recalling six senior [Strategists] from their posts?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Titan evaded the question.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s time to see if their replacements can handle the situation. I just need some brainpower. You\u2019ll see. The Bodies of Felldan?<\/em> That\u2019s not right. Only the Minds would order them anywhere. Why would they\u2026? Damn, damn, damn. I need to do something about that.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cObviously.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Centaur saw Niers think. He moved a piece forwards and she stole a knight.<\/p>\n

The two of them stared at the dead piece. That was just a mistake. Perorn slowly took it off the board. She knew Niers well enough to know from the expression flashing across his face for a microsecond that it hadn\u2019t been some ploy. He\u2019d just not noticed the move.<\/p>\n

\u201cIs everything alright, Niers?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFine, Perorn. I just have things to deal with. It\u2019s an off-day for me. Soon, it will be dealt with.\u201d<\/p>\n

He waved it off. Perorn looked at him. The Titan\u2019s expression was faraway. Not on the documents. Or on the game. He moved a piece.<\/p>\n

\u201cI shall be announcing something soon, Perorn. Something I\u2019ve been meaning to do. It\u2019s\u2026well, you\u2019ll see.\u201d<\/p>\n

That was all the Titan said. But it worried her. Because he looked\u2026happy. And the Titan of Baleros was so seldom that. She feared not his happiness; she wanted that for her friend. But she felt like\u2026<\/p>\n

He lost two more games after that.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Selphids and Selphids and Selphids, oh my. Geneva Scala saw them speaking. She felt her lips moving. But she heard nothing.<\/p>\n

Idis was giving a report. Or rather, she had given that. Geneva had heard her speaking to Calectus and the other senior Selphids. But their debate Geneva wasn\u2019t part of.<\/p>\n

Of course, Idis wasn\u2019t an\u2026[Inner Friend]. Yet. If she had the class, she didn\u2019t have Okasha\u2019s box to put Geneva in. But that hardly mattered.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014decided, then. Idis will make it so. Geneva Scala?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] felt Idis cede control to her in an instant. It was like\u2026being able to scratch her nose after feeling it itch for a long time. Only, Idis would scratch Geneva\u2019s nose anyways since they were connected.<\/p>\n

Now, the [Doctor] looked at a friend. Or a former friend. Had he ever been a friend?<\/p>\n

\u201cCalectus.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid [Honor Guard] nodded to her. The other Selphids were leaving the room.<\/p>\n

\u201cI apologize for the necessity, Geneva. Some discussions you cannot be privy to at this moment.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see. Will that ever change?\u201d<\/p>\n

Calectus\u2019 expression didn\u2019t change. But then, Selphids could control any body perfectly. The experienced ones, at any rate. He dipped his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe hope so, Geneva. But we must be cautious. The fate of Selphids everywhere may hang on our decisions. We are\u2026not trusted as a species.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHmm.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva resisted the urge to ask if how they dealt with her wasn\u2019t an example of why the distrust existed to begin with. The Selphid, controlling his Dullahan body, turned his head slightly; it was disconnected so it turned nearly one hundred and eighty degrees. He shifted it forwards again, sighing.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe\u2026situation is somewhat tenuous. We understand there are other people from Earth in other parts of the world.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat will you do with them?\u201d<\/p>\n

He shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing. We are not interested in collecting anyone. If Wistram is\u2014that is a decision for the Minds to address.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Minds.<\/em> A governing body of Selphids, according to Idis. Geneva nodded slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo. Anything else? What were you discussing?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow to help your cause, Geneva Scala.\u201d<\/p>\n

She blinked. Calectus went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe are here to help you, as I said. We will contribute funds to research for your cure. And as I said, Idis will help you make contact.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cContact? Contact with whom?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOther Selphids! You can count on me, Calectus! I\u2019ll get Geneva anything she needs. All I need is a dedicated [Mage]. You know, to send [Message] or [Speak] spells?\u201d<\/p>\n

Idis saluted brightly with Geneva\u2019s hand and smiled with her face. Calectus looked at her sharply.<\/p>\n

\u201cIdis. Desist.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid released her control at once. Calectus frowned.<\/p>\n

\u201cIdis, you have strict orders. Do not take over Geneva\u2019s body without her consent.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry. I just\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid\u2019s eager voice turned meek in an instant. Calectus glanced at Geneva.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva, do you have any issue with Idis so far? She remarks that she has been enforcing a sleep schedule. Idis will desist.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cIdis.<\/em> You will be replaced.\u201d<\/p>\n

Instantly, the Selphid shut up. Geneva blinked. That was\u2026new.<\/p>\n

\u201cCalectus, I assumed Idis insisting on me sleeping regularly was at your behest.\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyes didn\u2019t move. But Geneva sensed a flicker of apprehension through Idis.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt was not. Idis is here to protect you, Geneva. She replaced Okasha, but she is not<\/em> your keeper. If she is upsetting you, she will be replaced and punished. She was the most suitable for the role of bodyguard. However\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh no. Please don\u2019t!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Idis whispered in Geneva\u2019s ears. The [Doctor] blinked. Interesting.<\/em> She chose her next words carefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2026wasn\u2019t aware of that. I thought Idis was managing me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf she has been too forceful\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026No. She hasn\u2019t. She\u2019s been eager, but I don\u2019t mind her.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you! I\u2019m so sorry\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Idis was audibly relieved. Calectus stared at Geneva again, and then blinked. He nodded and smiled slightly, but his expression was still stiff.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf you have any concerns, please ask. I will check regularly. And of course\u2014if Idis misbehaves in any way, she will be removed.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was a warning, but not just for Geneva. Idis shuddered; Geneva felt a gentle spasm in her nerves. And she thought of the other Selphid, before Idis.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow is Okasha doing? May I speak with her?\u201d<\/p>\n

Calectus paused.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026That would not be wise. She is being held.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot punished? Calectus, you know I am a [Doctor]. I\u2019ve sworn not to harm anyone. Or let anyone come to harm. That means your people and Okasha\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe is only being held. But since she may have influence over you via Skills, we will not allow you to communicate, Geneva. That is all.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Honor Guard] was firm. Geneva decided to drop it.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell then. Thank you, Calectus. I\u2019m doing my best, but diseases are difficult. I need those antibiotics. It will help me and the world. Idis has been helpful, as has your support and the Selphid [Nurses].\u201d<\/p>\n

They were [Healers], or younger Selphids who had been given to her to study. No doubt the Selphids wanted more Genevas. <\/em>Calectus nodded. Geneva went on.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026But the truth is I\u2019m lacking materials. Things from\u2026my world. Medicines.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhatever we can do, we will do, Geneva. You have but to ask. Idis now has the authority to connect you with other Selphids. We are not as powerful as major nations, but Selphids do have our influence. We hope you will level or gain what you need to overcome this illness. Idis, I leave you to aid Geneva as you know the best role for her. Do not overstep.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe really do want you to just level. And then cure us. I\u2019m sorry, Geneva. I\u2019m overeager. Please don\u2019t be mad! This\u2014your body is just so much <\/em>fun!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Idis whispered in Geneva\u2019s ear. As Calectus bid farewell to her, Geneva was left sitting. The [Doctor]\u2019s eyes flickered to the door. Then she and Idis were alone.<\/p>\n

Apparently alone. But she was always with Idis. The [Doctor] thought carefully.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026I\u2019m aware you\u2019re eager, Idis. It isn\u2019t fun for me, though. I have a job to do. And my experience with Okasha was\u2026troubled.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know! And I am sorry about that! But I\u2019m just here to help! Forget sleep! Let\u2019s go all night long! You just ask and I can do it. Just don\u2019t replace me?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy were you assigned to me over all the others, Idis?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm.<\/em> Because I\u2019m really good at killing people?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva shuddered. Idis went on, hurriedly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Minds were just worried about your safety! Plus, they thought someone with a lot of muscular control like me would be best. [Blademaster], remember? And [Barbarian]. That\u2019s in case you needed to be really strong.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see. Well, Idis. You haven\u2019t given me cause to complain. In fact, I\u2019m actually grateful about you making me sleep. That\u2019s a\u2014a fault of mine.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

And the young Selphid smiled with Geneva\u2019s lips. The [Doctor] nodded. And she went on, carefully.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll have to rely on you, Idis. What was Calectus saying about contacts?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh, that. That means that we\u2019re spreading word looking for your antibiotic and stuff. The mold? A lot of high-ranking Selphids will get word. All over the world!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? Just like that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva blinked. Idis laughed with her voice.<\/p>\n

\u201cOf course! Selphids obey the Minds! It\u2019s\u2014we work together, Geneva. We have to. You know how Selphids won\u2019t ever fight each other in battle, even if they\u2019ve been hired? There are too few of us to not be on the same side.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI see. You know, there\u2019s so much I don\u2019t know about Selphids, Idis. Oh\u2014and if we\u2019re alone, why don\u2019t you use my voice?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cReally? Thanks, Geneva! I like having working vocal chords. You wouldn\u2019t believe how rotten dead ones get.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was Geneva\u2019s turn to smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cI can only imagine. But we\u2019re sharing a body, Idis. If I make you uncomfortable, why don\u2019t you let me know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure! But I\u2019m really happy. I mean, I get to taste, do all kinds of fun stuff\u2014everything\u2019s so real<\/em> in a living body. Even better than the freshest dead ones!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid was happy. Geneva nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026you\u2019ll be contacting other Selphids about my antibiotics? Is there anything else Calectus has authorized you to do? I mean, us?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She was channeling\u2026Okasha. Only, backwards. Idis had to think and Geneva suspected she was doing the Selphid equivalent of scratching her head; she wiggled about for a moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cUm. Um\u2014well, if you wanted a Selphid to do something, I could get it. Like\u2026do you need rubies or something? We could get them from Salazsar, or ask an adventurer-Selphid or a [Miner] to get some. Stuff like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYup. It\u2019s a lot of authority, but Calectus really trusts you, you know. We want to be your allies.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva Scala had an idea. \u00a0She leaned back in her chair. The [Doctor] inhaled. And decided to take a risk. Idis knew more than Geneva would have wanted her to know. But if the Selphids were uneasy allies\u2014she might as well use that.<\/p>\n

\u201cInteresting. In that case, Idis? Could you do me a favor?\u201d<\/p>\n

She spoke. Idis listened. Then she took Geneva\u2019s body, at the [Doctor]\u2019s request, vaulted out of the chair, and ran out of the Selphid\u2019s headquarters.<\/p>\n

Idis ran.<\/em> Geneva felt the Selphid laughing with delight as she raced down the street, using her Skills to move faster than Geneva thought was possible. She blew so fast past Umina and Marian that the two [Strategists] were left in her dust.<\/p>\n

Of course, that wasn\u2019t the request. It was just to make Geneva move around faster and give Idis control for a moment, which made the Selphid happy. And while she ran\u2026<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] was thinking.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The interesting thing about Selphids was this: they were always on the same side. Even when they were enemies\u2014they didn\u2019t kill each other.<\/p>\n

Mainly because they had to be on the same side when the world hated them. Selphids killing Selphids was rare<\/em>. In their community, even far from home, a Selphid would aid another Selphid. And there were also ranks, authority by seniority. Secrets shared only among their people.<\/p>\n

In practice, it meant that a Selphid was an older\u2026Selphid to others. \u2018Older brother\u2019 or \u2018older sister\u2019 being the wrong term usually since gender wasn\u2019t applicable to Selphids. Mostly.<\/p>\n

Some preferred one body or another. But the body influenced the Selphid, along with species. For instance, Ulinde thought of herself as female today because she was wearing a female Drake\u2019s body. But she would be male when she wore one of the male forms in storage.<\/p>\n

And it was looking more important for her to be male more often than not. Because she and Jelaqua were sharing from a pool of corpses and Jelaqua was\u2026female.<\/p>\n

An older sister, then. She and Maughin were a couple, and because the Dullahan preferred Jelaqua\u2019s female bodies, the Selphid had started wearing them exclusively. Ulinde, as her junior, tried to make Jelaqua\u2019s life easier.<\/p>\n

After all, they were both part of the same team. And Ulinde admired Jelaqua. She was in awe of her heroes, the Halfseekers. She was also, in no small way, terrified of making Jelaqua angry at her again.<\/p>\n

Selphids didn\u2019t kill Selphids. But Ulinde had learned that you didn\u2019t have to die to regret crossing another Selphid. Sometimes she still shuddered at the one confrontation they\u2019d had.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut I deserved that. And now I\u2019m a Halfseeker.<\/em> Me.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid smiled into a mirror. Her lips twitched and spasmed. She sighed, and with her interior body, found a ripped bit of muscle.<\/p>\n

\u201cDarn. The muscle\u2019s wearing out.\u201d<\/p>\n

She sighed. Corpses always wore down. But this Drake\u2019s body was far from rotten, so she lived with it. She went downstairs after carefully applying some of the preservative gel that prevented body odors from leaking out and active decay.<\/p>\n

\u201cGood morning, Jelaqua! Morning, Moore, morning, Seborn!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The youngest member of the Halfseekers bounded down the stairs into the inn in Pallass. The other Halfseekers looked up. Jelaqua waved lazily, Seborn grunted, and Moore smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello, Ulinde. How was your sleep?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGreat, thanks! Jelaqua, what\u2019re we doing today? I\u2019m ready to go adventuring!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Spellslinger] bounced up and down. Jelaqua yawned.<\/p>\n

\u201cEat something first, Ulinde! I\u2019m tired. Seborn, what\u2019s our plan?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re between jobs. Again. Because someone<\/em> keeps going on dates rather than finding us work.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Rogue] snapped. He was grumpy without his morning tea-and-rum. It came via Garuda [Waitress] along with food for the others.<\/p>\n

This was not The Wandering Inn. It was simply expedient; easier to be in Pallass rather than having to use Erin\u2019s door. And the inn was nice, even to Selphids. It was run by a Dullahan, who knew and respected Maughin and was familiar with Selphids from Baleros.<\/p>\n

\u201cHey, I looked, Seborn. I didn\u2019t see anything great. We\u2019ll take a mission today. After breakfast. Uh\u2014who wants my breakfast? I ate at Maughin\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

Seborn sighed. But Moore accepted Jelaqua\u2019s portion and chowed down on his extra-large plate. Ulinde helped herself to breakfast\u2014or tried to. She noticed Moore staring.<\/p>\n

\u201cUlinde. Your jaw is\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid\u2019s jaw was only opening on her right side. Ulinde sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy jaw muscle\u2019s all deteriorated. Jelaqua, do you know a fix?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet me see. Damn, looks all torn up.\u201d<\/p>\n

The older Selphid got up to inspect Ulinde\u2019s body. A bit of her real form reached out through the air and inspected the deteriorated skin. The Garuda [Waitress] shuddered as she brought over a drink.<\/p>\n

\u201cDisgusting.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Ulinde\u2019s smile faded as she heard the word in the air. She didn\u2019t see who it was. Seborn looked around, and Moore\u2019s expression turned clouded.<\/p>\n

But none of the Halfseekers said anything. They were used to it. Jelaqua affected not to hear. She slapped Ulinde on the back.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think we need a string fix. We can find a small bit, tie those two muscles together. It won\u2019t last long, but I have a spool of thread in my room. We\u2019ll do it after breakfast.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThanks, Jelaqua.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Iron Tempest] winked at Ulinde. It was<\/em> like having a teacher and big sister who was also your friend. Ulinde helped herself to breakfast\u2014spicy chicken eggs. There was a breed of chickens raised on magical peppers who laid delicious<\/em> eggs. Selphids loved spice; their taste buds deteriorated too fast in most bodies for the subtleties of taste.<\/p>\n

Things had changed a lot for Ulinde. She had gone with Montressa to deliver justice and find people from Earth. Now\u2014she was a member of the team she\u2019d idolized. Isceil was\u2026dead. The team was split up.<\/p>\n

Some things remained, though. Ulinde was still a member of Wistram, even if she was now a Halfseeker. She had loyalty to her academy, which was why she hadn\u2019t told Jelaqua all about Montressa\u2019s mission. She\u2019d debated it, but Jelaqua didn\u2019t need to know. The Minds<\/em> on Baleros on the other hand? Well\u2026wiser Selphids than her would make that choice in Wistram.<\/p>\n

But today, as Jelaqua and Ulinde went upstairs and the Selphid used a tiny bit of string to connect the rotten muscle so she could move her jaw properly, her duties were brought up again. Ulinde sat up and raised a finger to her temple.<\/p>\n

\u201cIncoming [Message].<\/em> I\u2014oh. Oh.<\/em> Oh wow. Jelaqua! Big sis, you want to hear this.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua sat back on her haunches; she was wearing a Gnoll\u2019s body.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s up, Ulinde?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Spellslinger] was trying to process the information being thrown at her. She gasped.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s from the Minds.<\/em> No\u2014their agents!\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua\u2019s eyes sharpened. The Minds?<\/em> They were the authority of Selphids. When they gave an order, any Selphid who was\u2026a proper Selphid obeyed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat do they want with us?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014oh wow. Jelaqua. They\u2019ve got someone from Earth.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The word had never been mentioned between Jelaqua and Ulinde. But the other Selphid wasn\u2019t completely surprised to hear it. Jelaqua\u2019s eyes narrowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat<\/em> did you just say?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

It took some explaining. And admitting about Wistram\u2019s knowledge of Selphids. Jelaqua and Ulinde sat together in a single body.<\/p>\n

A Raskghar\u2019s; it was the most spacious. Since they were both adult Selphids, they could both occupy the body. They had to squeeze<\/em> a bit to fit in this one, but it worked. And their conversation was inaudible, even to Gnoll ears. Selphid secrets were good secrets.<\/p>\n

It was hard to imagine for non-Selphids how they spoke. Or interacted. <\/em>There were\u2026parallels.<\/p>\n

\u201cJelaqua, I\u2019m sorry I didn\u2019t tell you! But I had to be loyal to the academy!\u201d<\/p>\n

Ulinde whined. She shied back from Jelaqua, down the spinal column. The other Selphid pursued, although her body and Ulinde\u2019s were meeting across the stomach, spine, down the left hand\u2014she reached out and smacked<\/em> Ulinde. Well, the Selphid equivalent.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou idiot! So that\u2019s why you were all there! I should\u2019ve known! You should have told us.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Jelaqua\u2026<\/em>wait, how did you<\/em> know?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe knew about Earth! Or rather\u2026Seborn did. Moore picked up some stuff with Mrsha. We have ears. And Erin\u2019s not exactly a secret person. But tell us everything.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ulinde did. Jelaqua contracted on herself in shock.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo way. Another planet?<\/em> We thought it was another dimension! A gateway. Erin and<\/em> the others?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. The Minds must not know, though. Jelaqua, I have orders from an \u2018Idis\u2019 to get us in touch with Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat kid with the soccer ball? Why?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey know he\u2019s from Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua went still. She was thinking hard.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026So they have no idea about Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNone. Should I tell them\u2014?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Jelaqua\u2019s voice echoed throughout the body. Ulinde flinched. She didn\u2019t \u2018see\u2019 Jelaqua; Selphids didn\u2019t see without eyes. But she had senses beyond that of a body. And Jelaqua undulated darkly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Minds\u2026don\u2019t need to know about Erin. If they want Joseph\u2014fine. I\u2019ll respect their wishes. But we\u2019re calling Seborn and Moore in here and telling them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ulinde gasped. Again\u2014another parallel. She exuded a tiny bubble of oxygen which both Selphids sensed.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut Jelaqua, the orders are secret\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua poked Ulinde. That was\u2026broadly speaking the same.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t keep secrets from teammates. That\u2019s how Garen\u2026no. Not even the Mind\u2019s orders. Not about Erin. You\u2019re loyal to our people, Ulinde. But you need to learn about what being loyal to your team means.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In short order, the other two Halfseekers were brought in. They listened. They debated. Seborn didn\u2019t like it. Moore didn\u2019t like it. But Jelaqua was adamant.<\/p>\n

\u201cLads\u2014you don\u2019t know the Minds. We\u2019re both Selphids; disobeying them is like disobeying your [Captain], Seborn.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI did that all the time. I abandoned my ship, Jelaqua.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drowned Man [Rogue] and former [Pirate] growled. The Selphid hesitated.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Okay, not like that. It\u2019s like\u2026betraying your team. There\u2019s no going back for us, boys. And the Minds know<\/em> about Joseph and Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked around significantly. Moore and Seborn went still. Ulinde went quiet. She shivered, though her body felt no cold. She was in the presence of history. A name unspoken.<\/p>\n

Garen Redfang.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cWhat will you do, Jelaqua? If it puts Erin and Mrsha and the inn in danger, I will not have it. They have been through enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

Moore rumbled. Jelaqua nodded at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cNothing like that. I\u2026don\u2019t think the Minds know about Erin. And we\u2019ll keep it that way. I propose we go to the inn. And tell Erin<\/em> about it.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The other Halfseekers looked at each other. Ulinde held her breath. Jelaqua went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s the right thing to do. She\u2019s managing the kids, and Montressa, Beza, and that Palt are all there to watch her. We go there, tell her what\u2019s up, and let her decide. Votes?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Halfseekers voted. On big things like this, they would. Moore nodded, relief on his face. Seborn raised his claw hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo it. And if they want us to kidnap Joseph or anyone else, tell them to shove off.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n

The other three looked at Ulinde. She blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cMe? But I\u2019m new.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Halfseekers don\u2019t care. What do you say, Ulinde?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua smiled at her. The [Spellslinger] felt warm. Connected to her team. She reached out and slowly grasped the wand at her side. She raised it, and sent a bubble of light floating into the air. It floated upwards, reflecting the faces of her team within. Her team. <\/em>The [Spellslinger] took a deep, shuddering breath.<\/p>\n

\u201cI say\u2014I stand with my team. No matter what the Minds want. Let\u2019s find out, shall we?\u201d<\/p>\n

They laughed and patted her on the back, clapped her shoulder, or gave her an approving nod. Ulinde smiled. And she knew this was her<\/em> team. The reason she\u2019d idolized the Halfseekers hadn\u2019t been because they had a Selphid on their team. Well, it hadn\u2019t been the only<\/em> reason. It was because they were like this.<\/p>\n

Good people. Then Ulinde heard another [Message] go ping<\/em> in her head. She blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cMold? <\/em>Hang on, there\u2019s one other thing\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Wandering Inn. Erin Solstice frowned. She rubbed at one ear. It was ringing.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat did you say?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua said it again. She, Ulinde\u2014Seborn and Moore were downstairs, investigating something in Octavia\u2019s shop. Erin Solstice looked at her friends. She had to be tired after arguing with Wailant, Teliv, and doing business stuff all day.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat?\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cEarth.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

Erin slowly sat down in the [Garden of Sanctuary]. She had been trying to plant potatoes. She looked at Jelaqua and Ulinde. Then she grinned.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yeah. I guess I\u2019m from earth. Uh, there\u2019s lot of earth all over. Here, there, everywhere\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Neither Selphid blinked. Jelaqua looked at [Innkeeper].<\/p>\n

\u201cErin\u2014we know. <\/em>We\u2019re not idiots. We\u2019ve heard you and Numbtongue when you\u2019re not being quiet enough. And Ulinde\u2019s from Wistram.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Erin considered this. She had a trowel in hand, potato in the other. She debated throwing the potato at Jelaqua, running for it and\u2026well, what?<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd someone\u2026knows another person from Earth? This, uh, place I\u2019ve never\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphids both raised an eyebrow. Erin threw down her potato.<\/p>\n

\u201cFine. <\/em>They know another person from Earth?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right, Miss Erin. It\u2019s complicated. The Selphid\u2026authority is trying to get us in touch with Joseph. They know he\u2019s<\/em> from Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow do they know? <\/em>He just plays soccer! Football!\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin snapped. She felt sweat on the back of her neck. Ulinde shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cApparently someone from Earth saw him. Erin. They<\/em> have someone from Earth who wants to speak with him.\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman froze. She looked up.<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone else?\u201d<\/p>\n

Neither Jelaqua nor Ulinde was prepared for the hungry look in Erin\u2019s eye. The [Innkeeper] rose to her feet.<\/p>\n

\u201cWho? I mean\u2014what\u2019s their name? Are they okay? Where are they from?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua gnawed on a lip. Ulinde waved her hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know! I have specific orders, Erin. They want me to get Joseph to a secret place and then they\u2019ll relay [Message] spells through me. I\u2019m not Palt. I can\u2019t do [Speak] spells and they don\u2019t want Wistram to know. But\u2026they know. Joseph\u2019s from another world. And\u2026so are you. We know that, not them. And we didn\u2019t tell them.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnother world. Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gold-rank Captain looked at Erin. Strangely, but with raised brows. It made sense and it didn\u2019t. There stood Erin Solstice. She looked into Jelaqua\u2019s eyes. The [Innkeeper]\u2019s gaze flickered. She bit her lip, scuffed a foot on the dirt she\u2019d cleared for planting.<\/p>\n

Then she shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yeah. Sorry I didn\u2019t tell you, Jelaqua. It\u2019s this whole thing. I\u2019m from Earth. Another world. It\u2019s not like this one. Keep it secret.\u201d<\/p>\n

She looked at Jelaqua. At Ulinde. The three stood together. No one knew quite what to say. Erin glanced at their faces. She threw up her hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cPsyche! Just kidding! Hah, you fell for that? Hilarious!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The two Selphids blinked at her. Erin lowered her hands. She checked their expressions, scuffed a toe.<\/p>\n

\u201cDarn. Okay, let\u2019s think this one out. Come with me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Geneva. Our Selphid has made contact with Joseph.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva Scala nearly dropped her basin of wet towels. The clinic was full of noise, the staff checking on patients, groans, even eating, but even so she beckoned the Selphid away.<\/p>\n

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

The Selphid [Mage] bowed. His skin was pale; he wore a Gnoll\u2019s body, incongruously enough. It was long-rotted, yellowed bones showing through parts of the skin through gaps in the robe. He smelled like mint.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes.<\/em> And we have word on the mold you wanted.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cA representative contacted the Plain\u2019s Eyes tribe. One of the largest Gnoll tribes in Izril.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTheir specialty is [Shamans].<\/em> They trade the most out of any tribe with the Walled Cities and are very respected.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Idis whispered in Geneva\u2019s mind. The Selphid [Mage] went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ve agreed to look for this mold. If any group could find it, or has records of a substance like that, they would.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Geneva sighed. But that was replaced almost at once by concern.<\/p>\n

\u201cDoes this\u2014Joseph know about\u2026?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAll he has been told is that someone from Earth wishes to speak with him secretly. He has been told Wistram is untrustworthy. Our agent will have explained.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe\u2019s a Gold-rank, as well as a [Mage], Geneva. Ulinde. But she\u2019s trustworthy. I\u2019ll tell you more about her if you like.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Idis spoke helpfully. Geneva bit her lip. She hadn\u2019t expected it to work so fast. But she made up her mind in an instant.<\/p>\n

\u201cI need to decontaminate. Let me scrub. Meet me in the United Nations headquarters in twenty minutes. Please get Paige, Kirana, Daly, Luan, Ken\u2014anyone you can find. Tell this Joseph we want to speak with him. No\u2014wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

She stopped the [Mage] as he raised a finger to his temple. The Selphid looked inquisitively at Geneva. The [Doctor] closed her eyes and thought.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t<\/em> tell them about us. Just say\u2014it\u2019s me.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Joseph sat in a room with Jelaqua and Ulinde. No Lyonette. Or Numbtongue. Especially no Mrshas. Not because they weren\u2019t trustworthy. But because\u2026this was a conversation between people from Earth.<\/p>\n

So, Joseph turned her head towards Ulinde.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019re they telling you? Are we talking in person or what? I can get uh\u2026me, if we need to talk.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ulinde looked at \u2018Joseph\u2019. Erin sat there, nervous, but her face was determined. Jelaqua eyed her; Erin looked more serious than either Selphid usually saw her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI think it\u2019s just [Messages], Erin. They\u2019re getting set up. You\u2019re\u2014oh. You\u2019re talking with, um, Geneva Scala.<\/em> The Last Light of Baleros, apparently.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Who? That\u2019s a weird name. The last light of what?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin frowned. Ulinde explained.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard of her, actually. She\u2019s this legend on the battlefield! A\u2014a healer. No, wait. What was her class? Oh. They said. She\u2019s a [Doctor].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c A doctor?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin sat up. Her eyes widened.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s special about a [Doctor], Erin? I thought they were weirdoes, like [Saw Doctors] who cut people open when there\u2019s no medicine. Selphids make use of them sometimes, but they\u2019re rare.\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman looked at Jelaqua and shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Jelaqua! What? A [Doctor] is\u2026a [Healer]. But better. They don\u2019t use magic. They use medicine. Science. <\/em>Is this person really a doctor-doctor?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI have no idea. Let me ask. Hold on\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019ve got Joseph? Really?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly panted as he slammed into the small room. He saw a Selphid [Mage], Geneva, and the other leaders of the company turn to him. Siri raised a finger, but there was no need.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am sending [Message] spells. Our agent does not know [Speak].\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage] informed the others. Geneva nodded tightly. The others were looking at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cTell them it\u2019s just me. Geneva Scala. I am<\/em> a [Doctor]. From Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut don\u2019t say it as a class. She\u2019s actually<\/em> a doctor. A medical one, who was trained. There\u2019s a difference.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige informed the Selphid. Daly hesitated. He mimed at Luan. Is it okay for the Selphids to <\/em>know? The [Rower] made a face and shrugged. They already knew through Calectus.<\/p>\n

The Gnoll-Selphid looked confused.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow do I say it?\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva grimaced.<\/p>\n

\u201cI never finished my certification, Paige. Tell them\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWait, so she\u2019s actually<\/em> a real doctor? No way! How old is she?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin gasped. She imagined a real doctor would be a lot older than anyone else she\u2019d met! But of course\u2014why not? What if this Geneva was in her sixties?<\/p>\n

\u201cHow old is she, Ulinde?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHold on! I need to send! I\u2019m not Palt! I don\u2019t do [Message] spells well!\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Spellslinger] was concentrating. Erin waited, bouncing up and down in her seat.<\/p>\n

\u201cI need to be careful what I say. I\u2019m Joseph. Football, not soccer. Football, not soccer\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

She closed her eyes. Grew still. Erin leaned forwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen, Ulinde. Don\u2019t send what I say. Let me think about each response. And when you do send a [Message]\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014Do it word-for-word. We\u2019ll keep a log of this conversation. Hell, we\u2019ll write down each response.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige told the [Mage]. He nodded. Geneva Scala took a deep breath. Her heart was fluttering. Why was it racing? Idis was confused too.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy are you nervous? You know they\u2019re from your world. Isn\u2019t everyone here from Earth?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but\u2014this is different, I\u2014Okasha.\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly glanced at Geneva. He wavered, and then nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re on another continent. We should be careful about what we say, everyone.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think we can\u2019t trust them?\u201d<\/p>\n

Ken looked at Daly. The Bushranger\u2019s Captain shrugged slowly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI say\u2014just be careful.\u201d<\/p>\n

And then the conversation began. Paige\u2019s pencil raced across the paper.<\/p>\n

In The Wandering Inn, Erin jotted down her notes.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

[Joseph]<\/strong> \u2013 Are you really a doctor, doctor? From Earth, I mean? Sorry\u2014how old are you? I know it\u2019s rude to ask\u2026<\/p>\n

[Geneva]<\/strong> \u2013 I\u2019m twenty five. My name is Geneva. Hello, Joseph. Pleased to meet you.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Oh! I\u2019m really sorry. Hello! I\u2019m Joseph. Pleased to meet you. You\u2019re the first person from Earth I\u2019ve met.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Really? I\u2019ve met other people.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I haven\u2019t. Who have you met? How many others?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

In the company\u2019s headquarters, Paige turned to the others and raised an eyebrow.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou all believe that?\u201d<\/p>\n

The others murmured.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey could have come alone. We shouldn\u2019t have let on\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTrust is important.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ken\u2019s voice. He looked at Geneva as the [Mage] waited. The [Diplomat] waited a beat.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014But it is also important to be safe. Tell them\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 There are others. I came with a group. Some were split apart. Others died. I\u2019m sorry, I can\u2019t be more specific. But there were dozens.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erin Solstice sat back. Ulinde stopped speaking and saw the [Innkeeper]\u2019s face. The young woman was white-faced.<\/p>\n

\u201cDozens?\u201d<\/p>\n

And then\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cDied?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin. Are you alright? Should we get Lyonette?\u201d<\/p>\n

Jelaqua half-rose, concerned at Erin\u2019s expression. The [Innkeeper] didn\u2019t respond at first, so the Selphid opened the door. Ulinde saw Erin\u2019s eyes flick towards her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 From where? Were they all young? I\u2019m from Spain. What about you?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 America.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Wisconsin, Madison. The others were around my age.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I see! That makes sense.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A pause. Erin cursed. Paige looked around at the others.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 How so?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Was everyone from America?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 No. There were other countries mixed in. Why does everyone being young make sense? How old are you?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHey Joseph, how old are you?\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

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

\u201cHow old are\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin got up and stormed out the door. Lyonette came hurrying in, demanding answers. Mrsha was clinging to Jelaqua\u2019s shoulders. After a moment, Erin ran back into the room.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Nineteen.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I see.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A pause, then. The United Nations company conferred. Lyonette, Numbtongue, Mrsha, and Bird sat together. Still no one else. Jelaqua listened as they conferred.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026I lied. Okay? They\u2019re from this Selphid group. The Minds.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve heard of them. You should be careful, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

Lyonette shuddered. Jelaqua glanced at her and the [Princess] blushed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m sorry, Jelaqua. But I heard\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026No. You\u2019re right to be wary. The Minds are on our side. No one else\u2019s.\u201d<\/p>\n

By \u2018our\u2019, she meant Ulinde and herself.<\/p>\n

\u201cBe careful.\u201d<\/p>\n

Numbtongue murmured to Erin. She nodded. Bird was sitting there, gamely reading the notes along with Mrsha. She was worried too.<\/p>\n

The conversation resumed.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Let\u2019s be open, Joseph. I am a [Doctor] working in Talenqual. I am attempting to bring some medical knowledge from home to here. It is difficult. I am currently trying to find a cure for the Yellow Rivers bacteria that is in danger of becoming a full-blown pandemic.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Numbtongue and Mrsha started. Lyonette blinked and went to grab the scrying orb.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I\u2019ve heard of that! How bad is it?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Very bad. The disease is spreading quickly. Where are you?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 In an inn in Liscor. I\u2019m alone.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I see.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Silence. The United Nations company eyed each other.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf we get a knock at the door in the next few days, we\u2019re in trouble.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s what Calectus\u2019 company is for. We can at least hope they can deal with Wistram [Mages].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAssuming Wistram is the only player.\u201d<\/p>\n

They frowned as Geneva dictated another response.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I saw you playing soccer on the scrying orb. How did that happen?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Coincidence, mainly. I was playing a game and a [Mage] decided to broadcast it.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 The Ullsinoi Faction? The Centaur?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. He\u2019s a friend. But I\u2019m not affiliated with Wistram. Actually\u2014they\u2019re looking for us. You should be careful.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Really? Can you elaborate?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Wistram Academy is finding people from Earth. Earthers. They are sending [Mages] to get us. With or without our consent.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 And they told you this?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 They tried to get me to come with them.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Did they attempt to force you?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erin took a deep breath. Ulinde waited, nervous. The others looked at her. The [Innkeeper] saw Lyonette clenching her hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s dangerous.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. They failed because I had friends who protected me. The Centaur struck a deal; I\u2019m under the protection of one of Wistram\u2019s factions.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I see.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Anarchy in the United Nations company.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Please keep my identity secret.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I will. The Ullsinoi Faction is not as active as the other ones. I believe they are trustworthy. What was it like when you arrived here? Are there more people from Earth or are you the only one? Are you in danger?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 That\u2019s a difficult question to answer. One moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cOh no. I think they know I\u2019m lying. Ulinde?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin was sweating. The [Spellslinger] shrugged helplessly.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s no nuance, Erin. I\u2019m just getting the replies and repeating them verbatim.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOffer them something, Erin. Tell them about Wistram. Or Magnolia. That\u2019s not a big secret.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ll want to know about Magnolia, then.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin argued. She was thinking about Ryoka\u2019s iPhone thing. Should she ask\u2026? But Geneva had gone silent. And Erin feared\u2026<\/p>\n

Numbtongue\u2019s arms were crossed. He didn\u2019t like this dance of information. To him, it felt like fighting in the dark. All spotting the enemy and quick clashes of blades. Exposing too much was how you died. But it was Bird who spoke up next.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin. You are lying.\u201d<\/p>\n

The others looked at him. Bird stared at the notes. Erin bit her lip.<\/p>\n

\u201cI am, Bird. But we have to be careful. We don\u2019t know if we can trust them.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Worker nodded agreeably.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is true. However, if I was them and I was listening to you, Erin, I would not trust you either. Because you are lying. If you are lying, how can you ask to trust someone? This makes no sense.\u201d<\/p>\n

Mrsha\u2019s head hurt. But Erin looked up. Lyonette opened her mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou think I should tell the truth, Bird?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Worker looked up at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cDid you lie to Pawn or we when you taught us chess? I do not think so. If you did\u2014we would not have liked you. Lies are like hollow bricks. You cannot build much with them. It all falls apart.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] looked at him. She took a deep breath.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 \u2026There are others.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Can you clarify?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Sorry, but I wanted to be cautious. There are others. I have met them. And I have received letters. From Wistram. There are others, but I cannot tell you where or how many. I do not know who these Selphids are.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 That is understandable. Thank you for being honest.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 To be more honest\u2014we were found by someone. An individual. We were eventually able to leave, but more people know about us. I was not part of this, but there was a\u2026phone call. Or something.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I know.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Ken raised his iPhone. The others clustered around even more closely. Idis was asking questions. Geneva ignored them.<\/p>\n

In the inn, Erin tried to recall what Ryoka had said.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Do you know who \u2018Kent Scott\u2019 is?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 No. Do you?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 No. Honesty set to maximum this time. However\u2014I do know there are others. There is a [Singer] in Terandria. I think that a person is in Chandrar.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 R\u00e9mi Canada?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes! Did you read his newspaper-thingy?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The United Nations company was chuckling. \u2018Honesty set to maximum\u2019, \u2018newspaper-thingy\u2019\u2014they were relaxing. Geneva herself smiled as she replied.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 We get the news. We have a scrying orb.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Me too! Those are the ones I\u2019m aware of. The group in Rhir, Wistram\u2026and now you.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 And the ones in Izril?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. They\u2019re safe. As safe as they can be. Are you<\/em> safe?<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

The mood turned serious again. Daly pushed forwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat does he mean? Ask\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Please clarify by \u2018safe\u2019.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 If something bad happens, will you be able to protect yourself?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I have security, yes. I operate a clinic. It is secure.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 No. I mean, monsters.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Can you explain further?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. Monsters. I have been attacked multiple times since coming to this world by monsters. Not just people. Real\u2026monsters. Not Goblins. They\u2019re not monsters.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

That came from Numbtongue.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Do you mean undead? I am familiar with them, but Talenqual is a large city with a mercenary company protecting it.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Mercenaries? That doesn\u2019t matter. Monsters can overrun a city. I have seen a horde of undead nearly destroy a city. There are worse things. Crelers, for instance.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Have you encountered them yourself, Joseph?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. I\u2019ve killed monsters. But I am no [Warrior]. One of us was teleported to a Creler nest with friends. She was the only survivor.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cFucking hell. This guy\u2019s fought Crelers?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly exclaimed. Siri checked her crossbow.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Do you have warrior classes? How do you protect yourself?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I don\u2019t fight if I don\u2019t have to. I have friends. Adventurers, from this world. They\u2019ve died fighting monsters. I\u2019m not that strong. The Watch\u2014the law enforcement, friends, adventurers, fight. But a city will not protect you. You need a safe place. You need to prepare.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Erin was holding Numbtongue\u2019s hand. He looked at her as she spoke.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 There are dungeons full of monsters. Huge ones with magical powers that can terrify you. Flying ones the size of houses. You need to be careful.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I am. I have protection with me. There are others, as I said. We are relatively safe. Are you safe?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. Thank you. It was rougher when I first came here. I\u2019ve found a place to stay. Allies.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 When we came here, my group and I were teleported close to a battlefield. Some were from an airport. Melbourne. I was not. But I have been on battlefields. As a [Doctor], I do not fight. Many of the others died, however.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I see. Armies are different. Monsters, though\u2026it must have been hard.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

What a simple statement. But the United Nations company sat there for a moment. Because it was true. And they felt\u2026the other side knew it.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 It was. We have survived. But this world is dangerous.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Wonderful and dangerous.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. It is. We find more of us. Some do not survive. But we are looking.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 That is good. I am looking too. If I find them, I will protect them as best I can. I did not think to talk to anyone outside of Izril, however. Listen: do you need any help?<\/em><\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Us?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Anything I can do. I have gold. If you need something, I can try to get it to you. We must be careful. But I can ask the faction in Wistram. If you are in danger, let me know and I can try to get to you somehow.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

The United Nations company sat there, rereading the [Message]. It was so…confident.<\/p>\n

\u201cHim? Help us? With what, football?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 We should be fine, thank you. We are mostly concerned with gathering information. How we all got here, for instance.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I\u2019ll tell you what I know. Which isn\u2019t much.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Thank you.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

A brief exchange. Erin sat back.<\/p>\n

\u201cDarn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 No other clues?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 None. We thought it was a spell.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 The [Mages] from Wistram don\u2019t know anything about that.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Too bad.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Mhm. Perhaps there is a way we can meet in the future. You are very far away. But I may be able to buy a ship or something.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Or something?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I\u2019ll look into it. Talenqual is far away.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erin was staring at a map.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Like I said, there\u2019s not much I can do for you from here. But I can send gold, or figure out ways to give you things you might need. If you\u2019re a [Doctor], do you need scalpels or surgical instruments? I know an expert [Blacksmith] who can probably create medical-grade equipment. And an [Enchanter]. Transporting it is an issue, but\u2026<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Are you serious?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Absolutely.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The United Nations company exchanged glances.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Out of curiosity, what level are you?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 : ) What about you?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The [Mage] had to write that one down. The [Doctor] herself smiled.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 I\u2019m decently high-level myself. I wish I was better, though. People are dying. Even with my Skills. : \/<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Don\u2019t give up! This world needs [Doctors]! o\/<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Ulinde snapped.<\/p>\n

\u201cStop making me send pictures! It\u2019s too hard!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Thank you, again. I\u2019m doing the best I can. Honestly, I have enough resources. But the Yellow Rivers disease is spreading.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I\u2019ve seen it in the news. It\u2019s not where I am yet, but it looks bad. What can be done?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 We need a cure. But there are no antibiotics in this world that I know of. Do you know any [Alchemists]?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. I know a high-level one. Antibiotics? Do you mean, like, penicillin?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes! If you have come across any supplements or substances with similar properties, we need it urgently where I am.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 We have penicillin. How much do you need?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 What? Say again?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 We have penicillin. An [Alchemist] I know made it for me. Also, baking soda. And matches. Do you need some for this Yellow Rivers thing?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 \u2026Hello?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Are you still there?<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Chaos in the United Nations headquarters. Some of the others knocked on the door to ask what the screaming was about. Daly nearly knocked Dawson flat.<\/p>\n

\u201cDawson! We\u2019ve found fucking penicillin!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cShut up! Everyone shut up!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige was shouting. Kirana looked around, and then clapped<\/em> her hands.<\/p>\n

The miniature shockwave turned the noise into silence. The [Housekeeper] looked at Geneva. The [Doctor] was pale-faced.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Please confirm. You have penicillin<\/em>? How?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I asked one of my [Alchemist] friends to research it months ago. A friend of mine\u2026was sick. It wasn\u2019t ready then. Now, it is. Do you need it?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. The Yellow Rivers disease is a bacteria. We need as much as possible. It may halt this pandemic. We need it.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Okay.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cHow do we get the stuff? It\u2019s in Izril?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShips. How long will that take?\u201d<\/p>\n

Siri was conferring with Luan. He was grimacing over a map.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt least\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 If possible, we need it sent to us at all speed. I know it is difficult, but we are aware it is possible to teleport small items.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. Okay.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 However, we need as much as possible. And the methods of creating more. Written instructions as well as large a supply to cultivate more. Assuming this is a mold? I am sorry, but if possible, we need a Courier. We will attempt to send as much gold as needed. We are calculating how much we can send you.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Okay. I will have it sent by Courier today.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 What? Please clarify?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I will arrange it by Courier. Don\u2019t worry. I can do it. What else do you need?<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

And there was silence. Erin Solstice sat there. Lyonette was pale-faced from the thought of hiring a Courier. But she looked at Erin. Mrsha stared up, peering at Erin\u2019s face. Bird smiled. So did Numbtongue.<\/p>\n

Her eyes were focused. She was just sitting there. But the air was charged.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 If you can, we need to see how effective this penicillin-substitute is for the Yellow Rivers disease.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I see. I can arrange that too. What else? They say they\u2019ve found a cure in Pallass, though.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 That is incorrect. The crystals are not a workable solution. This [Healer] has not dealt with enough patients and those \u2018cured\u2019 may still be carriers. She has treated six patients and her crystals cannot be bought or produced in enough numbers. This penicillin-substitute is a better option. Are you sure it is penicillin?<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

Erin felt a moment of panic. But Ryoka had gone over it with Octavia.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Fairly sure. It was tested. Okay. Understood.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Can you send the penicillin?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 I will. Please wait for me to send a response confirming. But I will get it to you as fast as possible. Trust me.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Thank you.<\/p>\n

\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n

\u201cThank you.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] whispered. She felt lightheaded. Idis was panicking at all the mixed feelings running through Geneva. But now Geneva Scala sat there. And she could not see the person on the other side. But the conversation went on. And Erin Solstice sat there, trying to imagine a face.<\/p>\n

It was a dialogue between the two of them, then.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Don\u2019t thank me. Thank you. I am not a [Doctor]. I wish I could be. You\u2019re saving lives.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Not enough. I try.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 That\u2019s all we can do. It\u2019s been difficult.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. Sometimes it is extremely hard to effect change.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 True. But what other option is there? That\u2019s why we do these things. Don\u2019t give up. It means so much to hear from someone else trying to do the right thing.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Yes. Here as well.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Never give up. If I can do anything for you\u2014let me know. I can\u2019t promise anything, but I have friends here. Good people. Let\u2019s keep talking. I\u2019ll let you know as soon as I get the medicine sent. And get you in contact with someone on this end.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 It must have been terrible at the start. But you did it. I did it. Let\u2019s keep working, Geneva.<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 We are not alone.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The conversation ended with that, and a few more details. Addresses, notes about the disease. Then the [Mage] looked up. Geneva sat back. Her mind was racing.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is too good to be true.\u201d<\/p>\n

Siri looked at Ken. The [Diplomat] half-nodded. But he just stared at the log of messages.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Scala? Are you done for the moment? Adventurer Ulinde has promised to send a [Message]. I will let you know when I receive it.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid [Mage] was weary. Geneva nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. Please, let me know at once. We have to\u2026Couriers. Even if they can\u2019t find one, we should see\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Let us go. Luan?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOn it.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Mage] and the three went for the door. When the Selphid was gone, and Geneva, Luan, and Ken, had all run for the nearest Runner\u2019s Guild, Paige turned to Kirana, Siri, and Daly.<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think that was \u2018Joseph\u2019, do you?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Kirana was looking at the writing. Daly closed his eyes.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe don\u2019t know if they\u2019re telling the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy would they lie, Daly?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t know. But this\u2026do you think they\u2019re serious? A Courier? Penicillin?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll find out.\u201d<\/p>\n

Siri murmured. And Kirana looked up. It had been a short conversation, all told. Even so\u2014she was smiling. And Daly recalled, on Geneva\u2019s face, an odd expression. Kirana laughed, and it was a good sound. Daly realized her expression was mirrored on his face. He looked down at the last line and marveled how much it mattered to say.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019re not alone.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cLyonette? We\u2019ve got work to do.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ulinde was panting, cheeks flushed. Or rather, she was having to inhale more oxygen for her inner body, and the glowing orange in her cheeks and body were a sign the Selphid had exhausted herself. Erin turned to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cUlinde. Thanks so much. I\u2019m going to need your help, but rest. Let Lyonette get you anything you need.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Spellslinger] waved weakly. Jelaqua looked at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019re you going to do, Erin?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m going to get a Courier. And other things.\u201d<\/p>\n

She turned and left the private room. Then she walked down the corridor. Numbtongue followed her just in time to see Erin pick up the pace. She jogged\u2014and then ran.<\/p>\n

\u201cOctavia!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] slammed<\/em> into Stitchworks. Octavia nearly dropped the potion she was working on.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin! Don\u2019t do<\/em> that! What\u2019s the matter? Are monsters attacking?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Alchemist] looked around wildly. Erin shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cPenicillin! How much do you have?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Stitch-Girl brightened.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou mean, there\u2019s a buyer? I\u2019ve been in talks with some [Healers] over this Yellow Rivers thing, but\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOctavia, we need all<\/em> of it! Get it! The mold, the actual penicillin\u2014start packing it up! It needs airtight containers\u2014except for the mold, it needs to be alive\u2014it\u2019s going across the world! Get all of it! And start growing more! As much as you can!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Who\u2019s buying it?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Alchemist] was dumbstruck. She stared at Erin. The [Innkeeper] threw up her hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo it!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She ran from the shop. Shouts followed her, but Erin was sprinting<\/em> now.<\/p>\n

Madness ran through Erin\u2019s veins. An electric excitement. In this moment, she felt like she could take on Moore in a wrestling competition and win. She floated as she ran, leaping down the corridor.<\/p>\n

There was someone else! Geneva! A [Doctor]!<\/em> Someone who was trying to\u2014<\/p>\n

\u201cDrassi! Drassi!<\/em> I need you, and Ishkr! I need you to go into Liscor and find\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Everyone was moving too slow.<\/em> Erin barged into the common room and the staff and guests turned. There was a susurration. Perhaps they saw it on her face.<\/p>\n

But there was already a crowd. <\/em>Why? Perhaps\u2014Erin blinked as she saw Olesm, Belgrade, Pawn, a number of chess aficionados\u2014<\/p>\n

And him.<\/p>\n

The Dragon sat at the table, arms folded. In front of him was a chessboard, all set.<\/p>\n

\u201cEldavin?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Grand Magus looked at her. His mismatched eyes blazed.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin Solstice. I have returned. I want a rematch. That last loss was\u2026unacceptable. We\u2019ll play a game now.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin saw Reynold and a [Maid] hovering behind him, looking worried. And the crowd looked at her. She faltered. Her eyes were drawn to the board.<\/p>\n

\u201cNow\u2019s not a good time, Eldavin. Can\u2019t this wait?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNo. <\/em>Sit down. We\u2019ll bet properly on this game this time.\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyes narrowed. Erin paused.<\/p>\n

She looked at him. She looked at the chess game. Then, slowly, she went over to the table.<\/p>\n

The inn went still. Erin looked at the board, the white side, which Teriarch had given her for that slight edge. His gaze. And Olesm was prepared to annotate the entire game. Every chess player in Liscor was here and someone had sent a [Message] to Chaldion.<\/p>\n

Because here they were. The two chess players regarded each other, Teriarch in his comfy chair, Erin hovering in front of the board, torn.<\/p>\n

The games of legends. The battle of a century. Two masters from different worlds, at the very peak of the game, whose clashes would redefine<\/em> chess strategy.<\/p>\n

A clash of tita\u2014<\/p>\n

Erin put her hands under the table and flipped<\/em> it. Eldavin ducked just in time. His head popped up and the board sailed past his face as his chair went over backwards.<\/p>\n

The board and chess pieces flew across the inn. They bounced off mugs, clattered onto the floor. One landed in an open mouth and someone began to choke.<\/p>\n

Erin walked past the table. Calmly. Her blood raced through her veins. She looked around and saw Ishkr staring at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cGet me Drassi and Hawk. Now.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She ignored Grand Magus Eldavin as Octavia raced into the common room with a huge jar of her filtered penicillin and the mold samples itself. The [Innkeeper] began shouting.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Maviola saw Erin blazing like the sun. She was speaking fast, shouting at people, ignoring Eldavin. She had a mission.<\/p>\n

Penicillin.<\/em> Octavia had just been informed where she\u2019d be sending the bulk of her supply. She had brought it out from storage, but she was protesting. Not because she was unwilling to sell it, but because she had no idea what she was getting for her hard work.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow much am I getting? I mean\u2026I\u2019ll make it dirt-cheap. But it is hard work.\u201d<\/p>\n

She pleaded with Erin as the [Innkeeper] scribbled down the amounts in rough letters and shoved it at Ulinde. Erin turned to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cKeep enough mold to grow, Octavia. This can help with the Yellow Rivers thing. We\u2019re sending it to Baleros.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBaleros?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Half the listeners exclaimed. Olesm looked sharply at Maviola, but she was taken aback as everyone else. Octavia blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cHow much is it going for?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFree. We\u2019re sending it via Courier.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin!<\/em>\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s going to help with the Yellow Rivers disease, Octavia.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] snapped. The [Alchemist] opened and closed her mouth.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2014but\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

But the profits.<\/em> She looked around. Numbtongue was there. Octavia hesitated\u2014then deflated.<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin didn\u2019t notice at first. Numbtongue did. He went over, poked Erin hard. She yelped.<\/p>\n

\u201cNumbtongue, what\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

He whispered in her ear. The [Innkeeper] turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut\u2014oh. Right. Okay\u2014okay. Let me\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

She closed her eyes for a moment, pinched the bridge of her nose and thought. Octavia glanced up. Numbtongue nodded to her. Erin turned.<\/p>\n

\u201cSorry. Listen, Octavia, this stuff is going to go for free. To a [Doctor]. She needs<\/em> it. I\u2019m sorry, but people\u2014thousands, tens of thousands\u2014need this stuff now.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s fine, Erin. Really.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, listen, Octavia. We\u2019re sending as much as we can to Baleros so they can grow more and use the stuff. But keep\u2026a quarter of your supply? Ulinde, write down Octavia\u2019s name. And Stitchworks. Tell them it\u2019s from her. And Octavia?\u201d<\/p>\n

She pointed at the Stitch-Girl. The [Alchemist] glanced up.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Put your name on every jar, Octavia. And grow lots more. People are going to want as much as they can get. When they buy it from you, make it cheap. And the [Doctor] is going to tell everyone <\/em>who made it. I\u2019ll buy your entire supply myself; don\u2019t worry. No matter how much gold\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll pay for it.\u201d<\/p>\n

A voice. Erin turned. And a [Sinew Magus] rose from the chair where he\u2019d been prepared to take notes. Grimalkin strode forwards.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis can cure the plague in Zeres?\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyes were sharp as he looked at Erin and then the mold and penicillin. Erin glanced up at Grimalkin.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen Pallass will pay for it. And if the Assembly won\u2019t, I\u2019ll cover it myself. Send the bill to me.\u201d<\/p>\n

Octavia felt weak-kneed. Grimalkin glanced at Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cJust so long as some of it reaches Zeres, as well as Baleros.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe [Doctor] needs it to make it most effective. But yeah. I\u2019ll talk to you in\u2026thirty minutes. Octavia? You\u2019re getting paid. Is that okay?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. I mean\u2026put my name on the jars?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIn big lettering. Like a logo or something.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin helpfully pointed to the glass jar. Octavia thought about that. Baleros?<\/em> A cure for\u2026she began muttering.<\/p>\n

\u201cComplimentary matches. Aaah! I need to grow more mold! <\/em>Labels? A logo?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She ran. Erin had penicillin. Grimalkin was asking questions, but she had to get this stuff moving. Delivery would take a longer time. She needed a Courier.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cSo, I need a Courier from the nearest big port. One who can go on the oceans fast.<\/em> But you need to get it there. Like\u2014by nightfall. Any city will do; anyone with a Courier. I\u2019ll hire them. How about it, Hawk?\u201d<\/p>\n

The Rabbit Beastkin looked at Erin. He looked at the table piled with Octavia-brand jars which she was hastily slapping logos on. Mrsha had come up with it. A needle and thread sticking out of a jar. Lyonette had\u2026improved the art with [Flawless Attempt].<\/p>\n

Teriarch was harrumphily listening as the two servants tried to placate his bad mood. Selys was trying to keep up. And Hawk?<\/p>\n

\u201cNo, Erin. Nothing doing.\u201d<\/p>\n

He shook his head. Erin blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Why? Hawk, this is essential\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Courier folded his furry arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold on, Erin. I understand this is important, but business is still business. I can\u2019t just run an errand for nothing. Besides, I\u2019m not running any deliveries.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cYes\u2026at a discount, though? That goes against my principles. But that\u2019s not it either, Erin. Even if I was going to do you a favor, I don\u2019t want to leave the city.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhy?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin and Selys chorused that. The Rabbit-man looked pointedly at Selys. He put an arm around her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m staying here in case there are more riots. I\u2019m not about to leave Selys at the hands of a mob.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHawk! <\/em>Don\u2019t be an idiot! This is medicine! Like potions! I\u2019m fine! The riots never even got into the guild!\u201d<\/p>\n

Selys glowered at him. The Rabbit Beastkin blew out his cheeks.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat are you saying? I should be right here. That\u2019s what a concerned partner does!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot if people\u2019s lives are at risk! You take Erin\u2019s delivery! Don\u2019t be stupid!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m concerned<\/em> for you!\u201d<\/p>\n

The two began arguing. Erin looked from face to face. She opened her mouth, and decided against it. She didn\u2019t have time to waste.<\/p>\n

\u201cProblems with delivery?\u201d<\/p>\n

Grand Magus Eldavin inquired silkily from his chair. Erin glanced at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m working on it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps I could\u2014no, then again, halfhearted\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin stormed past him without hearing. The Dragon harrumphed<\/em> again.<\/p>\n

\u201cChange of plans. Get Drassi here, Ishkr.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI asked, but she\u2019s nowhere to be found, Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Gnoll was panting. He\u2019d gone to her apartment. Erin scowled.<\/p>\n

\u201cFind her.<\/em> Drag her here! I need Drassi! Tell her I\u2019ll pay her triple overtime\u2014whatever it takes! But she\u2019ll want<\/em> to do this. I have to go to Invrisil.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The Runner\u2019s Guild in Invrisil was busy as usual. The [Innkeeper] strode up to one [Receptionist]\u2019s counter. She hopped up and down until the City Runner in front of her was done. Then she approached.<\/p>\n

\u201cCan I\u2026help you, Miss?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Receptionist] gave Erin a very odd look, but she\u2019d seen worse. The young woman leaned on the counter.<\/p>\n

\u201cI want a Courier. I have a delivery I need to get to Baleros. I want a Courier who can get it to the nearest port-city, and then another who can get it across the ocean as fast as possible.\u201d<\/p>\n

Heads turned. That kind of request was big<\/em>. The kind that nobles made, but\u2026this young woman didn\u2019t look exactly rich enough to make it. The [Receptionist] gave her an appraising look and coughed into her hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss. I\u2019m afraid only a few Couriers are nearby, even in Invrisil\u2019s Guild.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. I want to talk to them.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Receptionist] gave Erin a strained smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cErin Solstice.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Solstice, we can\u2019t just request a Courier without some, um, assurances that you can afford them. By all means, you can post a request with your available funds, and they will review the request at their leisure. However\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is urgent.<\/em> I want to send medicine! To Baleros! It\u2019s about this Yellow Rivers thing!\u201d<\/p>\n

Now more heads popped up. Erin was debating Pallass. But Grimalkin had thought Invrisil was more likely to have a Courier if Hawk couldn\u2019t be persuaded. The [Receptionist] licked her lips. She didn\u2019t like doing this, but\u2026she put on an apologetic face.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Erin. I know someone might need a\u2026potion. Or poultice. But even so, I\u2019m sure Baleros has its own [Healers]. Couriers may<\/em> be inclined to read your request and take on a case for charity. But you must wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cNobles wouldn\u2019t have to wait, would they?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe nobility\u2026are the nobility, Miss Erin.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Receptionist] was firm. Erin thought of Maviola. Or Grimalkin. Or Chaldion. She could waste time. Or\u2026the [Lady Firestarter]\u2019s words echoed in Erin\u2019s mind.<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] leaned over the counter. The [Receptionist] leaned back. Erin Solstice pointed at herself.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen. You may not know me, but I\u2019m Erin Solstice. An [Innkeeper] from Liscor.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cFrom Liscor? Oh, you\u2019re the one with\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThe magic door.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin let that sink in. She looked around the guild. Full of runners. Then went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m the [Innkeeper] with a magic door. That connects Liscor to Invrisil to Pallass. <\/em>I\u2019ve agreed not<\/em> to send packages through to Invrisil from Liscor because it\u2019ll mess with the Runner\u2019s Guild. It ruined Celum\u2019s Runner\u2019s Guild for a bit. But I\u2019ve agreed to ban that for Invrisil. No\u2026deliveries that would y\u2019know, negate 400 miles of hard work. Because that\u2019s bad for Runners.\u201d<\/p>\n

Oh.<\/em> The Runner\u2019s Guild looked more closely at Erin. The [Innkeeper] looked at the [Receptionist], who\u2019d begun to sweat. Erin Solstice smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t make me change my mind. I want to speak with a Courier.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was the most aggressive move Erin had ever made, and she\u2019d flipped a table about fifteen minutes ago. The [Receptionist] begged to confer with the Guildmaster. But before she came back, someone applauded. Erin turned\u2014<\/p>\n

A short man and a horse stood behind her. The horse was beautiful, a silvery mare. The man was\u2026uh, well, more like one of the horse jockeys than anything else. But he was confident. And grinning.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, you\u2019ve got my attention. Tritel and Ci. I\u2019m a Courier. The Moonlight Rider. What do you want, Miss Erin Solstice?\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI see. So this is\u2026meant to cure that Yellow Rivers stuff? Must be worth a lot.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tritel eyed the jar of mold in Erin\u2019s inn. Ci had come with him. Ishkr cautiously offered her a tub of water. Iced.<\/em> The mare delicately drank as she snorted at him.<\/p>\n

Even Erin had been forced to do a double-take at the Moonlight Rider\u2019s insistence that his partner go everywhere with him. But Ci was perfectly behaved. She\u2019d walked in, stared at Mrsha, and then looked bemused at Palt. He\u2019d rolled his eyes, but didn\u2019t seem to have a problem with a horse and rider.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s valuable\u2014but I\u2019m not trying to earn money on it. It\u2019s meant to go to a [Doctor]. She\u2019s working on a cure.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tritel was smoking. Tobacco. Erin let him do it. The Courier only stopped when Ci blew the smoke back in his face. He grimaced and put it out.<\/p>\n

\u201cMy horse is a tyrant. Anyways, let\u2019s say I did this. Looks like we need to keep the mold out of bags of holding, right?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. It\u2019s alive. So\u2026no bags of holding. But this<\/em> you can take.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin gestured to the processed penicillin. Tritel nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd when we get to a port, say, First Landing, you want this loaded onto a ship or a Courier\u2019s craft. And it\u2019s bound for Talenqual? That\u2019s a port city. Yeah, a sea-Courier could<\/em> get it there fast. But that\u2019s no cheap offer.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI know.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] was waiting. Tritel took a gulp from the blue juice and rum he\u2019d asked for. He glanced at Ci.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo? How much are we getting paid?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, I can\u2019t afford to pay you full rates. But I can\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin glanced around for Grimalkin, but he was gone, off securing funds for Octavia. Eldavin calmly watched. Tritel laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Erin. You can\u2019t ask us to go hundreds of miles at top speed\u2014even from Invrisil\u2014and expect us to do it for nothing!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s going to save lives.\u201d<\/p>\n

He nodded amicably.<\/p>\n

\u201cI know. In that case, get a City Runner. It\u2019ll be slower by a few days, and a [Captain] will be slower by boat, but they\u2019ll do it affordable.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou won\u2019t do it for charity?\u201d<\/p>\n

He shrugged. A look crossed Tritel\u2019s face.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen, Miss Erin. I\u2019ve been begged<\/em> hundreds, thousands of times by wives, asking me to take an antidote to their husbands. Or adventurers who need me to bail them out with a potion. Children who need transport to The Healer of Tenbault or somewhere with a good [Healer]. Sometimes I do it. I used to do it a lot. But if I do it too much, I\u2019ll spend my entire life running without a penny. And I have to feed Ci and myself. I\u2019ve known Couriers who died like that.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Innkeeper] pursed her lips.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo people dying doesn\u2019t bother you?\u201d<\/p>\n

His eyes flashed. Ci glowered at Erin and bent her head to nudge the [Innkeeper]. But Tritel stopped her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI never said that. I just said, I need compensation.<\/em> And if you think I\u2019m heartless\u2014the sea-Courier needs money too. More, really. They need to cross a damn ocean with this cargo. Can you pay us?\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice sat back. She was thinking. Reynold frowned.<\/p>\n

\u201cLady Reinhart would surely\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He looked at Sacra. She nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ll send a [Message].\u201d<\/p>\n

She unrolled a scroll. And Teriarch held up a hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot just yet.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two servants blinked. They looked down at him. The Dragon sat in his chair, watching Erin.<\/p>\n

\u201cGrand Magus?\u201d<\/p>\n

Reynold wondered if this was Eldavin\u2019s pique showing. But the half-Elf was just watching Erin. He glanced at Reynold.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf she fails, send a [Message]. But wait.\u201d<\/p>\n

The young woman looked around. Lyonette was shaking her head. It would deplete the inn\u2019s funds, even if they could afford to hire both. And Erin didn\u2019t think a [Doctor] had that much money. If she needed to, she\u2019d ask via Ulinde. But\u2026there were ways.<\/p>\n

Her eyes alighted on Galina, instructing an older Gnoll woman on the parts of A Doll\u2019s House.<\/em> Erin looked back at Tritel.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat about other forms of compensation, Tritel?\u201d<\/p>\n

He laughed dismissively.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Erin. If I had a copper penny for every time I heard that\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin Solstice slapped the table. Ci backed up in surprise. She leaned forwards and the Moonlight Rider and his horse leaned back.<\/p>\n

\u201cTritel. And Ci. The Players of Celum have a booth in their theater reserved for me. <\/em>Are you a big fan of plays?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou?<\/em> I mean\u2014I\u2019ve seen the other plays, back before they arrived. Ci has to wait, so I\u2019m not a fan of them, though. Decent stuff. What, why?\u201d<\/p>\n

Tritel blinked at Erin. She<\/em> owned the Solstice Booth? The young woman looked at him. She put her cards on the table.<\/p>\n

\u201cI will get you and the Courier who delivers it across the sea an exclusive seat <\/em>in the Solstice Booth and a performance dedicated to you by the Players of Celum, who will dedicate the play to you by name <\/em>to the entire audience for an entire month as a patron of the arts.\u201d<\/p>\n

It was a variation of her Octavia gambit. Tritel\u2019s eyes widened. He took a deep sip of the drink.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026You can do that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAbsolutely. Your name. And Ci\u2019s. And I\u2019ll pay you as much as I can. The sea-Courier too. How about it? Free access to the Solstice booth. For as many plays as you want. We can always share. Plus, you can take friends with you.\u201d<\/p>\n

Tritel was thinking about that. That was\u2026very tempting. Erin Solstice sat there. She smiled at him and the Moonlight Rider grinned. He was wavering. Erin looked at him and then at his horse. She grinned.<\/p>\n

\u201cThis will save lives. It\u2019s the right thing to do. And\u2026I\u2019ll get your horse in the booth as well.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Rider] blinked at Erin. And then he laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cDeal.<\/em> I\u2019ll do it for free if I get that! Now, do you have a sea-Courier? Because if not, I need a [Message] spell to negotiate\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

On the other side of the world, Geneva Scala was standing in the Runner\u2019s Guild. She didn\u2019t have Erin\u2019s ability to threaten economic competition. But she had Luan, and Ken.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s right. How about Rexielsa? I know her. Let her know it\u2019s Luan the Rower. We\u2019re asking for a delivery. It won\u2019t be at good rates, but let her know The Last Light of Baleros<\/em> is asking.\u201d<\/p>\n

Names had power. Geneva tried to stand straight and look\u2026like a myth of the battlefields. The [Receptionist], a Dullahan, kept glancing at her.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe can do that, Luan\u2026but they\u2019re busy.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s a personal favor. They know me.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cUm\u2014we\u2019ll get in touch as fast as possible. As soon as one gets to the Runner\u2019s Guild.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet them know it\u2019s about the Yellow Rivers disease, please. I am sure even Couriers are concerned. This will keep everyone healthy.\u201d<\/p>\n

Ken put in. The [Receptionist]\u2019s eyes widened and she scribbled an addendum. Luan nodded gratefully at Ken. He turned to Geneva.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019ll be a while. Why don\u2019t you go back to the headquarters? They know I know you, Geneva. You don\u2019t have to be here.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOkay. Let me know if there\u2019s anything I can do.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] inhaled. She still felt jumpy<\/em>. Was this happening?<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva, Geneva!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Humans spun. Siri raced into the Runner\u2019s Guild. She was panting.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva! We just got word. The penicillin\u2019s away! A Courier is bringing it to First Landing! There are sea-Couriers there. We just have to get in contact\u2014Joseph says he\u2019s working on it.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAlready?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Luan blinked. Siri nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd that\u2019s not all. Listen\u2014we need you to get back to headquarters right away! There\u2019s something else.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva ran. Idis ran, really. But the [Doctor] was back at the United Nations headquarters before the panting Siri. The [Ranger] entered after Geneva, clutching at her side. Geneva was fast.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201c<\/em>I wish I had a Selphid.\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

She commented to Daly. The Australian young man was reading from a piece of paper.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 We have the [Alchemist] with the penicillin here. And that [Healer] you saw on the scrying orb.<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Really? How?<\/p>\n

[Joseph] <\/strong>\u2013 Magic stuff. We\u2019re going to send more penicillin to Zeres, but we want to know how effective it is. Can you outline how to use it and how to treat people?<\/p>\n

[Geneva] <\/strong>\u2013 Absolutely. Give me one moment.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cI need my notes. Can someone get them from my room?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOn it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige hurried upstairs. Geneva sat down. She wasn\u2019t even breathing hard. She began to correspond as the others watched. The Selphid [Mage] groaned as Geneva scrawled out paragraphs to send.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho is<\/em> this [Doctor]?\u201d<\/p>\n

Demerra demanded. She was here at Grimalkin\u2019s request, and also to follow her patient, who\u2019d snuck out of her clinic. But Chaldion was reading with as much interest as Grimalkin. He was looking from Erin to the detailed correspondence.<\/p>\n

\u201cAn expert in treating infections. Or so it seems. How much do you trust this individual, Miss Solstice?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cA lot, Grimalkin. And this is the medicine. She wants you to test with it, Demerra. Do you have more patients?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cTwo. In a room in the clinic.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWho I\u2019m sharing space with. What is this about \u2018airborne infection\u2019?\u201d<\/p>\n

Chaldion\u2019s brows snapped together. The Gnoll [Healer] blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have as many healing crystals as possible, Grand Strategist\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat doesn\u2019t stop disease, according to this [Doctor].\u201d<\/p>\n

They weren\u2019t reading the exact replies from \u2018Joseph\u2019 to Geneva, but an abridged version. Octavia was frowning and trying to figure out how to create the various substances Geneva wanted. Everything from a poultice to an\u2026injection?<\/p>\n

\u201cI suggest you begin treatments with these [Doctor]\u2019s orders at once, Healer Demerra. And meanwhile, I shall stay in my home.\u201d<\/p>\n

Chaldion came to a quick decision. The Gnoll [Healer] began to protest, but she eyed the figures about infection rates nervously.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014I can certainly apply the poultices and such if I deem them safe to use, Grand Strategist. But I can assure you, my crystals\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow much of this mold is needed?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLots. If it works, we need lots<\/em>. Octavia\u2019s growing more on bread and stuff, but we\u2019re going to have to do it outside my inn. Because uh, the [Field of Preservation].\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin waved her hands. She was waiting on one last person.<\/p>\n

Drassi. The Drake came into the inn, protesting as Ishkr found her at last. Grimalkin nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cSend a sample to Oteslia. If it works\u2014they can grow enough.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure. But remember, it\u2019s Octavia\u2019s<\/em>. Here\u2019s a jar with the label.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Sinew Magus] and Chaldion eyed the giant \u2018Stitchworks\u2019 logo and Octavia\u2019s name plastered on the jar. The huge Drake sighed.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026I\u2019ll communicate that. Healer Demerra\u2014treat the patients as the [Doctor] prescribes.\u201d<\/p>\n

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

\u201cThat\u2019s an order, [Healer].\u201d<\/p>\n

The Grand Strategist spoke. And Demerra only hesitated a moment before bowing. Erin glanced around. She waited until Chaldion and Grimalkin were looking the other way before wiggling her fingers. Unnoticed, a Selphid\u2019s head ducked back into the [Garden of Sanctuary].<\/p>\n

Erin sighed. Her manic energy was running out. But not just yet.<\/em> Courier away. [Healer] trialing with Octavia.<\/p>\n

\u201cErin, what\u2019s this about? I have weekends! Even if it isn\u2019t the weekend.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gossip] was complaining, but only mildly. She sensed something was up. She peered at Grimalkin, Chaldion, and the paper. Erin turned to her.<\/p>\n

\u201cDrassi\u2026I have something I want you to do. It\u2019s complex, so let me explain. And you don\u2019t have<\/em> to do it\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake opened her mouth. Erin went on.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014but I bet you\u2019ll want to. And I need your help, Grimalkin. Chaldion.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two male Drakes peered at her suspiciously. Grimalkin folded his arms.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf it\u2019s going to cause havoc to no end, Erin, I\u2019ll decline. But go on.\u201d<\/p>\n

She smiled at him.<\/p>\n

\u201cOn the contrary, [Sinew Magus]. It\u2019s going to do good. Or do you like stupid things? More importantly\u2014it requires testicles.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Grimalkin blinked at Erin. Then he laughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m listening.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019ll trial it. Apparently, it\u2019s worked on their cultures before so I think it might actually be a broad-spectrum antibiotic.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva sat back, sighing. The others murmured.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd this Joseph guy\u2026is doing all this?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. That\u2019s what our Selphid says.\u201d<\/p>\n

Perhaps only the [Doctor] noted Idis\u2019 worried sound and the Selphid [Mage] blinking. But they kept it quiet. Geneva cleared her throat; she\u2019d been speaking a lot.<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease send the following: \u2018Emphasize the antibiotics need to be taken after recovery is apparent or the disease may not be fully eradicated. It is essential<\/em> to complete treatment.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDone, [Doctor].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGood.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva sat back. She closed her eyes for a moment. The others waited, milling about.<\/p>\n

\u201cIf the trial works\u2026that [Alchemist] is gonna be rich.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNot if we grow everything ourselves. They sent the fungus.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh. Well\u2014we can credit it to her. Right? And if we have an antibiotic, we can make a lot of drugs!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s not a cure-all.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Italian woman opened her eyes. She sat up.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt might not even have the desired effect. We have to see, and make sure we\u2019re fully eradicating the bacteria. There will still be casualties. But yes\u2014if everything goes well, we might be able to scale up production of a cure enough to halt the disease. If that happens, I will ensure this [Alchemist] gets full credit.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAs well as The Last Light of Baleros?\u201d<\/p>\n

Kirana teased. Geneva glanced up.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do much. This [Alchemist] managed to create the antibiotic. As well as\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

She stared at the message. Someone had thought of penicillin as well. And to judge from it\u2014months before Geneva had.<\/p>\n

It was humbling. The [Doctor] felt like a fool. If she\u2019d done that from the start, rather than signing up to be a battlefield-surgeon, she would have saved more lives than she ever did with her bare hands.<\/p>\n

\u201cLet it work.\u201d<\/p>\n

She whispered. Someone patted her on the shoulder. Siri. The Swedish girl smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt will. Someone over there is our friend.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd speaking of which\u2014let\u2019s not crowd Geneva, everyone. We\u2019re probably making it worse if someone\u2019s sick. Let\u2019s go. Anyone free? We\u2019ll do a kick-about with the soccer ball. Who\u2019s up for that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly raised his voice. A good number of Earthers followed him. Geneva was left sitting there.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva?<\/em> Are you okay? You\u2019ve got a lot of emotions in you. This is good, right?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThis is good. I\u2019m fine. Thank you\u2014Siri.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] stood. She felt lighter. She looked around. Hope had taken a mountain off her shoulders. For a moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cAt least if we get this medicine working, we can debunk these idiots on the scrying orb.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige groused. She pointed at Sir Relz and Noass, who were talking about trade implications. Geneva grimaced.<\/p>\n

\u201cAnother [Healer] will bring up penicillin. Maybe even this Demerra. There\u2019s no point to touting a cure until we\u2019re certain.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

She glowered, nonetheless, at the two Drakes who had a healing crystal gifted to them by Demerra prominently displayed on their desk. They were still broadcasting worldwide.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014trade with Baleros is thus limited out of practicality for the meantime. I\u2019d take that into account, all you [Merchants] and [Traders] listening and anyone with an eye for overseas products.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHow many people does that make? Most people can\u2019t afford overseas goods. This is the rich bastards all over again, making a show for them. Wistram. I\u2019m going to kill Aaron. Someone turn them off.\u201d<\/p>\n

Cara O\u2019Sullivan, [Singer] of Terandria sat on her couch, scowling. She waved and one of the band members reached for the orb.<\/p>\n

There had been riots in the city the [Singer] had visited. Thanks to the Drakes. She\u2019d managed to calm the crowds, but the same could not be said for other Terandrian cities.<\/p>\n

It was bad business. Cara eyed Noass. If she could drop-kick him at this very moment, she would. The two Drakes had the world\u2019s ear, but they weren\u2019t responsible with it. They were\u2014<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014idiots! Archmages, this is unacceptable!\u201d<\/em><\/p>\n

The mob of Earthers in Wistram\u2019s hallway were blocking traffic. The other [Mages] were listening, but Feor had wisely ordered the students and younger [Mages] not in the know kept away from this\u2026protest.<\/p>\n

It was as close to a revolt as Wistram had ever seen. Two thirds of the young people from Earth had demanded an audience with the Archmages. Elena, their spokesperson, was arguing with Feor and Viltach. The half-Elf was trying to understand.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s not good journalism.<\/em> You\u2014it\u2014you can\u2019t just say \u2018go buy magic crystals\u2019!\u201d<\/p>\n

She was pointing to Noass and Sir Relz, who were the Wistram-sponsored television anchors. Not because they were particularly well-connected. But they\u2019d been the first. Feor had cause to regret that, now.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Elena. I am trying to understand your objections. What have these two Drakes done wrong? They have faithfully kept to our talking points.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but they also caused riots<\/em> and they\u2019re spreading misinformation! Healing crystals? If this disease is as bad as it seems, they shouldn\u2019t be saying it\u2019s \u2018under control\u2019!\u201d<\/p>\n

Elena pointed at Sir Relz, who was adjusting his monocle.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey didn\u2019t say that.\u201d<\/p>\n

Archmage Viltach\u2019s arms were folded. He was less impressed than Feor. Elena scowled. It was Aaron who interjected.<\/p>\n

\u201cBut they\u2019re downplaying the situation, Archmage Viltach.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThey\u2019re keeping people from panicking. What\u2019s wrong with that?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell\u2026maybe they should panic. Or be worried. The truth is that not everyone can afford a healing crystal, right? So people aren\u2019t being careful when they should be. I hear it\u2019s really<\/em> bad in Baleros. If crystals cured the disease, it wouldn\u2019t be that bad.\u201d<\/p>\n

The others nodded. Feor stroked his beard. It was true; they\u2019d received a lot of complaints about the riots. Thoughtfully, he glanced at the two Drake [Commentators].<\/p>\n

\u201cYou have a point, Elena. Noass and Sir Relz have been\u2026calming figures. But not without flaw. We were trialing other [Commentators], but setting up multiple areas of broadcast was deemed needlessly complex.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou should hire someone else. Someone from Baleros with good practices. There are standards<\/em> that news people should be held to. This\u2014this is just making people feel complacent.\u201d<\/p>\n

The broadcast droned on. Archmage Viltach consulted the rough numbers of how many people were watching. It was dropping; without drama, less people tended to watch. Still, he didn\u2019t like Elena\u2019s uppity tone.<\/p>\n

\u201cPerhaps we want them pacified. They don\u2019t need to know the truth.\u201d<\/p>\n

Viltach\u2019s soft murmur had been a bit too loud. The crowd of Earthers quieted, and Elena looked appalled. Feor scowled as he glanced at the Human Archmage.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe will consider the issue carefully<\/em>, Miss Elena. You have my word. For now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

He was about to order them to disperse in a kindly way when something happened. There were voices, arguing. Then\u2014a rattling sound.<\/p>\n

Not from the hallway. Feor\u2019s head turned. In the scrying orb, he saw Noass and Sir Relz glance up.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014er, the situation in Ailendamus\u2014erm\u2026<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drakes stared. Feor heard a voice.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cYou can\u2019t come in here! You can\u2019t\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBy order of Grand Strategist Chaldion, move aside.\u201d<\/p>\n

Someone thrust an assistant into the frame. A Gnoll stumbled into the view\u2014then fled. Noass rose. Sir Relz blinked.<\/p>\n

\u201cI say, what\u2019s this\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Every head turned. Viltach saw the live-viewers count begin to climb. And there she was.<\/p>\n

A smiling Drake, who was vaguely familiar to some viewers thrust her way forwards. There was arguing in the background, but she grabbed the magical \u2018microphone\u2019 as the two Drakes recoiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Drassi? We\u2019re not hosting the football game until later this week! Why are you here? We are live\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Noass cried out. Drassi backed up. The camera-Garuda swung the view up towards her. Drassi was terrified.<\/em> But she smiled desperately. And\u2014she was a [Gossip]. She had lived for this moment.<\/p>\n

\u201cHello! Sorry to break in, but I have an important series of questions to raise! Drassi here, The Liscorian Gazette! <\/em>I just had to speak to our hosts here about their coverage of the Yellow Rivers plague.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? Our coverage? Give that microphone back, young\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Noass recoiled as Drassi kicked at him. She spoke up, pointing a finger at them.<\/p>\n

\u201cExcuse me, Sir Relz! Noass! But don\u2019t you think it\u2019s misleading to claim healing crystals are a cure for the Yellow Rivers disease when\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

She fumbled for her notes.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014when even Healer Demerra admits it still takes a week<\/em> in her healing beds for a full recovery? And that\u2019s with numerous healing crystals! Can one really<\/em> prevent disease, or is that just a false claim?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat? What? We were just\u2014give that\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

The two Drakes were reaching for the microphone, and Sir Relz reached for his side and his self-defense wand. He halted\u2014mainly because of a figure standing just off-screen.<\/p>\n

Sinew Magus Grimalkin\u2019s arms were folded. He made no move. He was just watching. But the Drake loomed. He gave the impression that Sir Relz could draw his wand and cast as many spells as he wanted. And after Relz was done, Grimalkin would deal with him.<\/em> Sir Relz froze.<\/p>\n

The news broadcast had turned into an interview. The two Drakes found themselves sitting as Drassi found a seat. The camera moved back as the three began to debate.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s this about, Miss Drassi? One cannot just barge in here and\u2014waste people\u2019s time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIf I were wasting people\u2019s time, I wouldn\u2019t be here, Sir Relz. Noass. I\u2019m just here to bring up what I feel is\u2026misinformation. You two have been talking about the Yellow Rivers disease as if it\u2019s not a big problem. But there are tens of thousands<\/em> of sick people in port cities across the world. Isn\u2019t that cause for alarm?\u201d<\/p>\n

Noass shuffled his papers. Sir Relz folded his claws and carefully replied.<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2026Of course. That\u2019s why we\u2019re reporting on it. Just what about that is objectionable, young lady?\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi smiled kindly. She waved at the healing crystal on his desk.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes, but\u2014is this<\/em> good coverage? You put Healer Demerra on. And all fairness to her, she is<\/em> high-level. But she\u2019s not exactly on the front lines of the problem, is she? There are six<\/em> infected people in Pallass.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAnd? She has treated them quite efficiently.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cBut it\u2019s six<\/em> people. How would Demerra handle thousands? Why isn\u2019t a [Healer] from Baleros\u2014or at least Zeres talking? How are they dealing with this? Are they finding crystals effective?\u201d<\/p>\n

Noass shifted.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2014well, of course it\u2019s a concern. But Demerra was presenting an option for people to protect themselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Gossip] looked blank.<\/p>\n

\u201cWith what?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHealing crystals.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo they work?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201c\u2014Demerra\u2019s recommended them.\u201d<\/p>\n

The two Drakes\u2019 expressions changed as Drassi glanced at the crystal.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo, they absolutely work<\/em> at protecting people from the Yellow Rivers disease. You have one of these\u2014which everyone can afford\u2014and we\u2019re safe?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou know, it\u2019s not that simple\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen why are you talking <\/em>about this? I watch your show every day.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, thank you\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi raised a hand and Sir Relz stopped smiling.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019ve stopped enjoying it as much. After the riots coverage. You know, there was a riot in Liscor?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe brought it up ourselves.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYeah. Funny thing. There wasn\u2019t one until<\/em> you got to Invrisil and broadcast the crowds. Why\u2019d you do that?\u201d<\/p>\n

Sir Relz was getting annoyed. He leaned forwards and snapped.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Drassi. Our job is to report the news. We\u2019re [Commentators]. Our entire class is based around presenting what\u2019s happening and giving our take! That\u2019s our role.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSure it is. My class does the same thing. But I don\u2019t say things that might get people hurt. I\u2019m a [Gossip], but I don\u2019t tell lies.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cOh please\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHalf-truths, then. What did telling people about riots achieve? Did you have to show us how mad everyone was? In the same way\u2014do you think that telling people \u2018healing crystals work\u2019 will end the Yellow Rivers problem? I think it\u2019s still ongoing, don\u2019t you?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. But\u2026it\u2019s disingenuous to alarm people all the time.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cMore disingenuous than reassuring them when there\u2019s cause for alarm?\u201d<\/p>\n

Noass raised a claw.<\/p>\n

\u201cListen, young Drake. And I\u2019d appreciate it if you let us speak.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Drassi nodded tightly. The Drake collected his thoughts.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe Yellow Rivers disease is one matter. The riots are another. Let\u2019s tackle one at a time. Shouldn\u2019t we report the news as it happens? The King of Destruction, the riots\u2014these events were happening as we spoke. Sir Relz and I went out and placed ourselves in the way of danger<\/em> to show people what was happening. How\u2014how is that a problem?\u201d<\/p>\n

It was the [Gossip]\u2019s turn to pause.<\/p>\n

\u201cIt seems, Noass, that we\u2019re conflicted on what \u2018reporting the news\u2019 means. I think you\u2019re saying when you report on the riots or the King of Destruction that people need<\/em> to know instantly what\u2019s happening.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s correct. We\u2019re bringing news to people at a speed unprecedented up till this moment in time. A complete revolution of communication.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. But there\u2019s a danger inherent in this. I think you\u2019re not thinking of the way showing people what\u2019s happening is dangerous.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDangerous?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. Riots began across the world because people saw your<\/em> coverage. Wouldn\u2019t you agree there\u2019s a link?\u201d<\/p>\n

The two Drakes exchanged a quick glance. Noass carefully sat back.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe just report the news, Miss Drassi.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSo there\u2019s no responsibility on your part for how the news is reported?\u201d<\/p>\n

Silence. Drassi went on.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo healing crystals protect you from the disease? Sir Relz? Yes or no.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHealer Demerra has assured us it helps. That\u2019s her prognosis as a [Healer]. Do you know what prognosis means, Miss Drassi?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo I need to? Listen. Healer Demerra can say what she thinks is right. But if she\u2019s wrong and the crystals are waste of money\u2014isn\u2019t that your fault as well? Do they protect you from the Yellow Rivers disease, Sir Relz? Please, answer the question.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drake coughed.<\/p>\n

\u201cTraditionally, healing crystals do<\/em> supplement potions. You see, they have known magical and medicinal properties\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cLet\u2019s stick to the facts, Sir Relz. Just<\/em> the facts, please. It\u2019s a yes-or-no question.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The three Drakes paused for another agonizing moment on screen. Elena blinked. Aaron smiled.<\/p>\n

Joseph?<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s our guy.\u201d<\/p>\n

He whispered to the others.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

\u201cWho is this Drake? Why do I love her?\u201d<\/p>\n

Cara was watching Drassi. Sir Relz was smiling hard.<\/p>\n

\u201cMiss Drassi, you seem to think our job is to be the <\/em>font of all truths.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI believe it\u2019s your job to tell the truth, yes. As best as you can.<\/em> Is that so hard to do?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cYou\u2019re being rather rude, young lady.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI prefer to think of it as being \u2018honest\u2019. How many people who aren\u2019t rich can buy healing crystals to begin with?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

The [Doctor] laughed. She laughed with delight. It wasn\u2019t possible. But\u2014he\u2019d done it.<\/p>\n

\u201cJoseph?\u201d<\/p>\n

The two [Commentators] were getting tetchy.<\/em><\/p>\n

\u201cI don\u2019t think we need<\/em> to be talked down to by a young woman half our ages, Noass. Nor do I think the audience needs to see this.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cPlease, Sir Relz. We need to know the truth! People are dying in port-cities. Those crystals don\u2019t work! We need to do more than just slap a crystal on the problem and say it\u2019s done!<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cSomeone cut the broadcast. Switch to, switch to\u2014<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The orb went dark. The United Nations company waited one beat, and then broke into a babble.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo way. That can\u2019t be Joseph. That just can\u2019t. He didn\u2019t\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWow. That\u2019s something.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Idis muttered in Geneva\u2019s head. The [Doctor] looked at the blank orb as it flickered to an advertisement. A Drake [Farmer] mopped at his brow and presented the viewers with a large beet. Pallass-grown.<\/p>\n

Things were changing. Geneva felt it. She felt\u2026lighter. She looked at the orb and giggled.<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva?\u201d<\/p>\n

The sound unnerved Paige. But the [Doctor] just sat there. She thought about \u2018Joseph\u2019. And she leaned back.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s why we do these things.\u201d<\/p>\n

She closed her eyes. Exhaled. And recalled something she\u2019d learned in medical school. Geneva Scala sat up.<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh. I wonder\u2026there\u2019s no issue, is there?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Paige looked at her. Geneva stood up. She glanced around.<\/p>\n

\u201cKirana, can I borrow the kitchen for a moment?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Housekeeper] looked astonished by the request. Geneva had never cooked a thing since coming to this world. But she agreed readily. Geneva walked into the kitchen.<\/p>\n

Something simple. She found some eggs. Noodles\u2026she looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have any cheese?\u201d<\/p>\n

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

Paige, Siri, and Daly peeked their heads in on the kitchen, watching as Kirana assisted Geneva. But the [Doctor] did most of the work.<\/p>\n

\u201cWhat\u2019s she making?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNoodles?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cGeneva?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] cracked an egg into a bowl with some pork, fat, black pepper, some cheese that was as close to parmesan as she could get\u2026Kirana hovered around her.<\/p>\n

\u201cEggs in the sauce? Not cream?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cAre you insane?\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva stared at her. She was making a carbonara<\/em>, not\u2026trash. She mixed the egg base with some pasta water and the pasta, watching cheese melt. She seasoned, tasted, and pronounced it \u2018adequate.\u2019<\/p>\n

\u201cI had no idea you could cook.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige blinked at Geneva. The [Doctor] smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cI haven\u2019t had time to before.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cDo you have time now?<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva made a plate.<\/p>\n

\u201cNot at all. But I have to take some time. Here\u2014try it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Paige did. Her brows rose.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat\u2019s good!\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThank you. Can someone help me take it?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWhere to?\u201d<\/p>\n

Daly seized the cooking mitts. Geneva looked at him.<\/p>\n

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

The others looked confused. The [Doctor] lead the way.<\/p>\n

\u201cDon\u2019t they have to eat that electrolyte water?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cIt\u2019s important, yes. But some of them can hold their meals. They\u2019ve not been eating more than bland food. It\u2014might cheer them up.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Doctor] led the way. She entered the clinic and Selphids, [Nurses], and more turned. Geneva put the carbonara in small bowls or plates and passed them around. The patients brightened up. Those that were well enough ate sparingly. But they had been missing taste.<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t think of it.\u201d<\/p>\n

Geneva Scala sat there, in her office, listening to the patients snack in a good mood and compare their favorite foods.<\/p>\n

\u201cThink of what, Geneva?\u201d<\/p>\n

Idis asked. Geneva shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cBedside manner. I thought it was enough to just be\u2026there\u2019s nothing for them to do. They should have books. Entertainment. The walls are drab. That won\u2019t improve their spirits. At least some plants. Flowers. Letters from family members.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh. But that\u2019s not your job, is it? You don\u2019t need to do that.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Selphid pointed out curiously. She felt Geneva smile.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s more to being a [Doctor] than just cutting people open, Idis.\u201d<\/p>\n

She\u2019d forgotten that. Now, the [Doctor] sat there. For just a minute. Then she stood.<\/p>\n

Healer Demerra had questions for her. One of the patients was doing poorly. Someone had just broken their leg. She had a thousand and one things to do. So Geneva did them. She ran about, so much that Idis was exhausted. Then Geneva Scala went back to her room and fell asleep. Because she needed that too.<\/p>\n

It wasn\u2019t the penicillin. Or even \u2018Joseph\u2019 who had led to that. It was just\u2026reassurance. The world needed help. But Geneva Scala did not stand alone.<\/p>\n

She wanted to see Okasha and talk to her.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Erin Solstice lay on the floor. She was dead.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

A Gnoll leapt on her stomach. Erin shouted and rolled over. Someone pulled Mrsha off her.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m super-dead.\u201d<\/p>\n

She was exhausted.<\/em> She\u2019d run about all day. Drassi confronting Sir Relz and Noass was all over the news. The two Drakes were in hot water. Wistram was considering its options.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou did all that in a day. You, who needed coaching to sign one trade agreement.\u201d<\/p>\n

Maviola looked at Erin with faint admiration. She saw Erin uncurl and look up at her. The [Magical Innkeeper] shrugged.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell, yeah. That\u2019s easy<\/em>. Or rather\u2014that\u2019s what I\u2019m good at. I don\u2019t like contracts and negotiations. I\u2019m better at people.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cEach to their own, I suppose. Well done.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI didn\u2019t do much. It was\u2026the [Doctor]. Octavia. Ryoka, and Drassi. I just nudged them.\u201d<\/p>\n

Erin sat up. She was still smiling a bit. Weary though she was, she was satisfied. She looked past Maviola. And the [Lady] saw.<\/p>\n

An [Alchemist], taking on more orders. Experiencing a moment in the sun.<\/p>\n

A [Gossip], panting and having a long drink\u2014also looking supremely angry.<\/p>\n

The half-Elf Grand Mage, swatting at Mrsha as she tried to take his fries. She leapt\u2014and went floating, slowly turning head-over-heels as gravity failed her. She began trying to swim past Bird. He\u2019d fainted again.<\/p>\n

That didn\u2019t count. But Erin Solstice sat up and smiled.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll just have to see what happens next, won\u2019t we? For now\u2026\u201d<\/p>\n

She glanced towards the door.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Selphids had secrets. Selphids looked out for other Selphids. But friends? Also friends. If you met someone who didn\u2019t look at you like a treacherous parasite, you did a lot for them.<\/p>\n

Jelaqua patted Ulinde on the shoulders, supporting her. The [Spellslinger] was worn out.<\/p>\n

\u201cI\u2019m fine, really. It was just so many <\/em>[Messages].\u201d<\/p>\n

Ulinde had a headache. But her team carried her back through Pallass. They passed by a protest. Some of Pallass\u2019 residents wanted Noass and Sir Relz off the air.<\/p>\n

\u201cYou did good, Ulinde. We\u2019ll keep contacting Erin if we have to. But let\u2019s take a load off. Have some drinks. Hell of a day, huh? Earth.\u201d<\/p>\n

The Halfseekers nodded. Jelaqua kept her voice low. Seborn cracked his neck.<\/p>\n

\u201cSo\u2026what\u2019s this other world like? We were too busy helping with the mold to ask.\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n

Jelaqua and Ulinde exchanged looks. After a moment, Jelaqua slapped her forehead.<\/p>\n

\u201cI forgot to ask with everything that came up!\u201d<\/p>\n

The Drowned Man crossed his arms, thinking.<\/p>\n

\u201cHuh. Well, if it has Humans it can\u2019t be that weird.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n

Moore politely tapped Seborn on the shoulder.<\/p>\n

\u201cYes. But Erin comes from there.\u201d<\/p>\n

The team of four looked at each other. Jelaqua shook her head.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe\u2019ll ask another day. Come on, everyone. First round\u2019s on me! Then, I have a date.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWatch out for Yellow Rivers.<\/strong>\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShut up, Seborn.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

[Conditions Met: Gossip \u2192 Honest Reporter Class!]<\/p>\n

[Honest Reporter Class Obtained!]<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Drassi surged up from the bar where she\u2019d fallen asleep from angry-drinking. She looked around.<\/p>\n

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

Numbtongue glanced up from his usual seat. Drassi waved her claws, trying to get her mind working as the Skills started listing themselves. She fell out of her chair.<\/p>\n

Little things.<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

—-<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Selphids. The two Drake [Commentator]\u2019s coverage of the Yellow Rivers diseases had outraged other cities. More than just Wistram\u2019s own internal Earthers were putting pressure on Noass and Sir Relz.<\/p>\n

Zeres had lodged a formal complaint. It was bad in the city. [Healers] had been fighting the illness. And now Zeres\u2019 High Command had ordered any vessel with Yellow Rivers to be refused entrance to the harbor.<\/p>\n

It made things even more hectic, and Zeres was a major port city, as large as First Landing. If you wanted to trade with Humans, you went to First Landing, or so it was said. For Drakes and Gnolls, Zeres.<\/p>\n

They\u2019d been there a while. Long enough for money to come via the Merchant\u2019s Guild. Long enough for Captain Lasc and the surviving [Storm Sailors] to be compensated royally.<\/p>\n

And why not? House Kallinad had money to burn, and for a relic-class artifact, one of the Diamond Swords of Serept? They were willing to buy a fleet of ships.<\/p>\n

Well, maybe not a fleet. But accounts were settled. All but\u2026two.<\/p>\n

Fetohep of Khelt wanted the other three swords. They were under guard. For the first week, Venaz, Merrik, and Peki had taken turns guarding the chest, never leaving it out of their sight. Well, the curse was also a good deterrent, but there had been\u2026incidents.<\/p>\n

It had taken negotiations with Zeres\u2019 High Command to get the chest stored for the near future. When the [Strategists] left the city by sea, they\u2019d come for it.<\/p>\n

But not yet. Fetohep wasn\u2019t pleased, but Feshi had to go north for the Meeting of Tribes. She would not be voyaging to Chandrar any time soon. And the others?<\/p>\n

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

Venaz\u2019 fur was uncombed. He sat there, rings around his eyes. Holding the green-diamond greatsword, prepared to use it. People still wanted his blade; the fact that it was bound to him was inconsequential.<\/p>\n

Feshi was far more uncomfortable with her dagger, but she wore it out of necessity. Wil? His sword hung in a sheath at his waist.<\/p>\n

\u201cNo one. The [Healers] are swamped. If the sickness is in the air\u2014and there are none in Zeres.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cNone?\u201d<\/p>\n

That came from Merrik. The Dwarf\u2019s good-natured expression was also worn down. The others sat there. Wil entered, with Peki and Feshi, who\u2019d gone with him to look again. He shook his head.<\/p>\n

\u201cThere are no Selphid-[Healers] in Zeres. The last one died. The others moved away.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Strategists] fell silent. Venaz looked around.<\/p>\n

\u201cThe [Alchemists] can\u2019t help either?\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI asked. There\u2019s famous ones in Pallass, but one of them\u2014Xif\u2014claims he doesn\u2019t know poisons. And Saliss of Lights is a combat-[Alchemist].\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThen what?\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Strategists] clustered around. Their room\u2014the one they were in\u2014was silent. Not as silent as the grave, though. Beneath the hum of their voices, in the moments of pained silence\u2014there was a sound.<\/p>\n

And one last [Strategist] was with them. Yerranola\u2019s body was gone. Out of necessity; it had been poisoned badly. And there were few\u2026uninfected\u2026bodies in Zeres these days, even if Drakes hadn\u2019t been wary of selling bodies.<\/p>\n

But even if they\u2019d had a pristine one, the Selphid couldn\u2019t have used it. She sat on the table.<\/p>\n

In a jar. It was glass, but not empty; a fluid held her. Her people had advised Wil on how to make that, at least. The Selphid was held in it. But not at rest. When Venaz\u2019 words failed to elicit a response, they could hear it.<\/p>\n

A shrill sound, not like a voice. Bubbling through the solution.<\/p>\n

A scream. Wil covered his ears. He hadn\u2019t slept or rested. They\u2019d tried everything.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe need to find an antidote. Oteslia.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cWe won\u2019t make it. She doesn\u2019t have long left.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Healers] and [Alchemists] had done their best. But the blowfish poison was eating away at their friend, for all she\u2019d been nicked. Selphids were too small. Their bodies\u2014in this jar, Wil saw a shifting mix of colors. An oozing form.<\/p>\n

But it was still Yerra. He crouched down. Feshi put a paw on his shoulders.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe have to try. She can\u2019t die.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cShe will not. If it\u2019s Oteslia\u2014we go. As fast as we can, without\u2014disturbing Yerranola.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cThere\u2019s a bounty on our heads. That Drowned Captain wants the blades.\u201d<\/p>\n

Feshi pointed out quietly. Merrik clenched one hand.<\/p>\n

\u201cThey can try to get it. We\u2019re not done yet. Come on. Let\u2019s make preparations. To Oteslia! Hear that, your Majesty? We\u2019ll leave the swords here if you want. But we\u2019re going. Our friend comes first.\u201d<\/p>\n

The [Strategists] turned. And the figure of sand, the king in death, stood there.<\/p>\n

Fetohep of Khelt. His deathly gaze swept across the room. Towards Wil, Feshi, Peki, Merrik, Venaz\u2014and then Yerranola.<\/p>\n

\u201cThat is your will? You will go, despite my demand to return the blades to my personage?\u201d<\/p>\n

He inquired politely. It was a\u2026disarmingly soft question. Fetohep was not<\/em> in a good mood. Trey Atwood had left and he was nowhere to be found. The King of Khelt waited. Wil Kallinad bowed.<\/p>\n

\u201cWe will arrange transport for the blades if you demand it, King Fetohep. But if it comes to them or the life of our friend\u2014we cannot spare the trip to Chandrar. We must go.\u201d<\/p>\n

\u201cI see. Well then.\u201d<\/p>\n

Fetohep stepped forwards. Venaz\u2019s hands touched the hilt of his sword. Warily. Fetohep stared back at the Selphid in agony. He looked at the [Strategists] and nodded.<\/p>\n

\u201cWell said. Take your friend. Time matters little to me anyways. Had you abandoned her\u2014you would not be worthy of the blades.<\/em>\u201d<\/p>\n

He waved a hand and vanished. Wil exhaled. The King of Khelt settled back on his throne. Adventures and legends. He sat there, chuckling to himself. Wil looked at the others, and then picked up Yerranola. Gently, but she screamed nevertheless. He held her to his chest, warming the jar.<\/p>\n

\u201cHold on, Yerra. We\u2019re going to save you. Hold on. Please.\u201d<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Author\u2019s Note: <\/strong>The theme of this chapter was Selphids. I\u2019m, not sure if that was obvious. However, I hope you enjoyed it. And this was short\u2026er! 22,000 words is respectable, right? Right?<\/p>\n

Anyways. It\u2019s another chapter in the day of the life. Where\u2026some big things happened, if we\u2019re honest. Plotlines are meeting. In time\u2026well, we\u2019ll see.<\/p>\n

Also, if you didn’t see, there’s a free sample of Volume 2’s audiobook! Check it out at the top!<\/p>\n

For now, I\u2019ll leave you with some wonderful art. The-O-Endless has done a horrific pixel-Creler, Anito has done a topical Moore and other art, and Sarina has done a lot of profiles! Give them all lots of appreciation! Have a good night and thanks for reading!<\/p>\n

The adventure continues.<\/p>\n

https:\/\/ko-fi.com\/anito<\/a><\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Pixel Creler by The-O-Endless!<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Creler<\/p>\n

 <\/p>\n

Moore, fae, hot tubs and more by Anito!<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Defenders <\/a> <\/div>
\"Hot <\/a> <\/div>
\"Erin <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Running <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Movie <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Moore <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

Portraits by Sarinia!<\/strong><\/p>\n

\"Ryoka <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Erin <\/a> <\/div>
\"Lyonette <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Rags <\/a> <\/div>
\"Pisces <\/a> <\/div> <\/div>
\"Ceria <\/a> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div> <\/div>\n

 <\/p>\n

\n

Previous Chapter<\/a> Next Chapter<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

(A preview of Volume 2 is now up on Soundcloud! Check it out here! The audiobook will be release July 14th!)   Selphids. The Bodysnatchers of Baleros. Parasitic, one of the most mysterious races in the world. And one of the most reviled, distrusted\u2014 Well, not as bad as Demons. Not as bad at all. […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":52856846,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_searchwp_excluded":"","_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0,"jetpack_post_was_ever_published":false,"patreon-level":0,"patreon_level":0,"footnotes":"","jetpack_publicize_message":"","jetpack_publicize_feature_enabled":true,"jetpack_social_post_already_shared":false,"jetpack_social_options":{"image_generator_settings":{"template":"highway","default_image_id":0,"font":"","enabled":false},"version":2}},"categories":[11693087,349],"tags":[],"twi_volume":[11693136],"twi_collection":[],"class_list":["post-8517","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-volume-7","category-writing"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"\n7.32 D - The Wandering Inn<\/title>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/wanderinginn.com\/2020\/07\/05\/7-32-d\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"7.32 D\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"(A preview of Volume 2 is now up on Soundcloud! Check it out here! The audiobook will be release July 14th!)   Selphids. The Bodysnatchers of Baleros. Parasitic, one of the most mysterious races in the world. And one of the most reviled, distrusted\u2014 Well, not as bad as Demons. Not as bad at all. 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