The Wandering Inn

Book 7: Chapter 57

On that day, it began with meetings.

The Wandering Inn was as of yet dark as the Worker crept up through the inn. He noted how messy it was as he edged through the common room. No blood, though. Which Bird took to be a good sign.

He hadnt been here. He had, in fact, been away from the inn most of the day and night. Hed even missed his precious salt-bird, and he hoped Erin hadnt forgotten.

The Worker slowly walked up the stairs. First floorErin, his room, and others. But he hadnt been there. Hed been in the secret place with some other co-conspirators. Working on the secret thing. Then hed gone to the Hive.

It was too dangerous to try to work in his room. Little Mrshas kept wandering in and all that hammering and so on would be noticed, even as thick as the walls were. Alsothe explosions.

Anyways, Bird had learned something.

Ballistae were hard to make.

This was an observation hed solemnly shared with his other Worker-Antinium in the Painted Antiniums barracks. Officially, Bird had quit the Free Hive. But he came by now and then because no one had ever stopped him but Klbkch.

Ships are also hard to make float, according to Anand.

Belgrade had relayed that to Bird. Since the [Hunter] had no interest in ships, hed listened as Pawn, Belgrade, Garry, and Bird all tried the newest recipe from Garrys kitchen. Worm In A Blanket. Only, the blanket wasnt a blanket, but bread.

The worm was a worm.

The point was that Bird needed to try again. Also, he needed more wood and better rope than the string they used in candles. He passed the second floor, with the Players of Celum and some of the guests. Onto the third

Hm. A new room was occupied. Bird peered at the new nameplate, but it was too dark since the sun had yet to rise. He walked towards the final staircase leading to his yet-unfinished tower. The early hour didnt bother him. If he didnt get morning birds, hed get night birds, with their soft furry bodies and weird wings. There were always birds.

The sun was rising beyond the High Passes as Bird opened the trapdoor to his tower. Someday, there would be a much bigger tower. Taller, with a ballista and other things. For now

Someone was in Birds tower. He stiffened. Was it the annoying Drake again? Who was in his tower? Bird looked up

And there sat Badarrow. The Hobgoblin was stringing his bow, lounging in the hammock Bird had made and staring out across the lightening Floodplains. You could tell it was Badarrow.

They looked different, Numbtongue and Badarrow. One had longer features around the nose and different facial bones. One weighed more than the other, and Badarrow tended to be more Pisces-like in how he behaved. They wore their paint differently, dressed differentlyonly someone who didnt know Goblins could ever mistake them.

Bird stopped. He peered at Badarrow. The Hobgoblin looked up.

Hey.

Good morning. Badarrow.

Slowly, Bird walked around the Hobgoblin. He looked around for birds, turned to peer at the Hobgoblin again. Badarrow strung his bow.

Lots of bats. You hunting?

Yes? Yes.

Theyd done this before. Bird paused in stringing his bow. He looked Badarrow up and down. And up and down again. Then he reached out and poked him.

The Hob swatted away the finger. Bird hesitated, then spoke.

You have been gone for a while, Badarrow.

The Hob shrugged nonchalantly.

Just for a bit. Got any good birds?

The [Sniper] turned his head to hide the grin. Hed asked Numbtongue for the words to say that properly. Bird tilted his head back and forth, antennae waving for a while. Then he replied.

I shot a big flying bird the other day. A goose. But it was a pet. I still got to keep it. I will give you some later, if you want, Badarrow.

Good. Thank.

The Hob sat up, aimed, and loosed in one motion. Bird saw a large Dropbat fall out of the skies. Badarrow grinned.

Snack. Ill get.

He turned, to head down the stairs. As Badarrow opened the trapdoor, four arms encircled him. He paused.

Huggy. I am glad you are alive.

Bird squeezed. And Badarrow grinned and laughed. The laughterwoke the young woman whod been dozing with her windows open. She started for a second.

Had it been a dream? But then she heard the laughter and the voices. She lay back, but the smile on her face drew her out of bed. And the inn awoke. To laughter, relief. Someone who hadnt actually been dead wasnt dead. But it more felt like theyd come back to life. Theyd returned, a lost friend, a guest.

Family. And all was well.

Meetings.

-

Bird was still holding onto Badarrow when they came downstairs. He had two arms free, but he hadnt let go.

If I let go, he might vanish. He is back. Look, Erin. I found him.

You missed him, Bird! You were gone all last night! I looked for you, but you were off!

I wasdoing nothing eventful at all. Yes. I went for a walk.

On another day, Erin Solstice would have investigated that lie right away. But she just filed it for later. She beamed and decided to hug Badarrow too.

Get off. Too much hugs.

The [Sniper] added another word that Erin didnt recognize in the Goblins tongue. She beamed and kissed him on the cheek.

Youll get more hugs!

The Hobgoblin growled and blushed. But hed been smothered nonstop all night and it didnt look like the rain of kisses was going to end soon. Forecast: affection.

Erin was pulling out food from the kitchen.

Here, Bird. And Badarrow, since youre up. Saltbird. I mean, one of those geese from the Djinnis Spoon

Oooh.

Bird let go of Badarrow to stare at the encrusted bird. Badarrow peered at it too, very interested. Erin winked.

Imanis asleep. You have to meet her properly too, Badarrow! She runs the kitchen so you cant just walk in, but shes still sleeping. This is a saltbird. You dont eat the salt, unless you want to. Help yourselves!

She knew from experience that Hobgoblins tended to have second stomachs no matter how much they ate. And Bird had informed her that hed forgotten to eat an acutal meal for the last sixteen hours. Where had he gone?

Erin brought out drinks, blue juice, to find that the two had become three. She paused, just for a moment.

Snapjaw looked up. The Hob eyed Erin as the [Innkeeper] smiled. Snapjaw didnt exactly lean back, but she sidled over.

Human kiss Badarrow?

Friend.

The [Sniper] clarified. Snapjaw shrugged. Shed been lured by the siren call of food.

Hey, Snapjawright?

Erin Solstice. I am Snapjaw.

Erin blinked. Theyd introduced themselves, but again, in that flurry of Mrsha clinging to Badarrows head and Numbtongue shouting, demanding to know where Rabbiteater was, if the othersnow she looked Snapjaw up and down.

Big head. Snapjaw did indeed resemble a certain [Sand Mage]s creations, although Erin just equated Snapjaw to other figurines from her world. And my, what big teeth she had!

Snapjaw speaks good words.

Badarrow informed Erin. His words were better, but Snapjaw sounded fluent. She bared her teeth at Erin.

Badarrow wanted to come here. Chieftain wanted to come here. You are Erin Solstice. The Human with the flag. I saw you, before.

Befoh. You were

Not a Redfang. Nor, Erin thought, on the side of the Goblins whod come with her. She would have remembered, and the way Snapjaw spoke?

The Goblin Lord. She looked at Badarrow, uncertainly. He shook his head.

Goblin Lord dead. Garen dead. Snapjaw

He shrugged as if to say its how it is. Neither forgiveness nor condemnation. Too many Goblins had died. Erin nodded.

Well, Snapjaw. Ihope you know youre welcome. You and Badarrow. Anything you want, tell me! Just be careful with the othersits safe here, usually.

I know. I read sign.

The [Big Eater] pointed. Erin beamed.

You can read? Andhere, Bird, dont do that.

The Antinium was angling his head, trying to bite off a huge piece of the goose. Erin went for her knife and Snapjaw and Badarrow produced theirs at once. Snapjaw eyed Erins kitchen knife.

Nice blade.

Thank you! Herehave a piece of goose, and for you, Badarrowlets eat. Quietlyeveryones asleep.

Snapjaw chewed her bite slowly, rather than gulping it down like Erin had assumed. She smiled hugely though.

Very tasty!

I know, right? Badarrow, help yourself. Its so good to

Erin trailed off. She pinched herself surreptitiously. But after the sharp pain, he was still there. And Rags was alive. And Rabbiteater

Crunch, crunch. Erin turned and saw Snapjaw eating a pile of salt off her plate. Erin opened her mouth. Snapjaw shoveled what might have been a fatal dose of salt into her mouth, and crunched happily. There was not enough saliva in the world for that bite, but she licked her lips and went for a second.

The new things and old things. Erin turned to Badarrow. She looked at Snapjaw, whom he was regarding so fondly.

Oh! No way!

For once, Erin got it without having to be told. Badarrow looked away shyly. But Erin was beaming.

-

People who werent beaming: Numbtongue, when he first awoke. When he thought it had all been a dream and he was lying on the battlefield, dreaming a happy dream before the stranger with no eyes found him and told him to live. Of course, then he beamed as he ran downstairs.

And where is it? In the High Passes? Is it safe?

Safer than anywhere else. Lots of dangerous things. Just not Humans. Adventurers. Chieftain is smart. Has many traps. Big rocks fall trap crushed thing that looks like Goblins. Very bad-bad. Got away.

Snapjaws voice floated up to Numbtongue as he stared at the quartet. He relaxed. Badarrow turned and beamed. Erin looked up too. She had not their night vision, but she knew.

Numbtongue! Come down! Did we wake you? Sorry!

He was about to say they hadnt. Numbtongue hurried downstairs, staring at Snapjaw, who eyed him with half-wariness, Badarrow, whom Numbtongue had too much to say to

He sat next to Erin. They were brothers, Badarrow and he. But something had changed. Not their affection for each other. Justsomething. But both wanted to talk, so much.

Yetthe second person who wasnt smiling? Numbtongue looked past Snapjaw and saw the ghostly figure, real and unreal.

Reiss. The Goblin Lord sat there, looking at Snapjaws back. Numbtongue shifted. He had not said to Badarrow half the things he had done or seen. And this? The Goblin Lord broke away from looking at Snapjaw and he said the same thing as yesterday.

Dont tell her that I am here. Please.

She was smiling and grinning and chewing on salt. Reiss looked at her with sorrow and shame and regret. Numbtongues smile slipped for just a moment.

Erin thoughtfully traced the line of his sight. As did everyone else, but they affected not to notice. Everyone had secrets.

Sois it within four hundred miles of the inn? Thats all Im asking.

Maybe?

Snapjaw and Badarrow replied after a long pause. They had not given details. Erin took a deep breath.

I could give you a magic stone. If you thought it was okay

Badarrow nodded instantly. Snapjaw was more coy.

Maybe you give us the stone, sure. Or we ask Chieftain if she wants the stone. Chieftain likes Human. But Goblinhome is secret.

I get that. I do. And I completely agree. Juststay for a while, please? And when you go, take all the food you want! Promise?

Snapjaw nodded and smiled.

Promise.

It was hard to hate someone who indulged her love of food like Erin. Stillshe remembered. This was one of Reiss deaths. And Numbtonguewas eying her. She wondered if theyd have to have a fight to the death. Probably notbut a few such duels had occurred between the Goblin Lords forces and Redfangs or other Goblins who couldnt accept it.

Lets go back to Rabbiteater. Where is he?

North. Lost track of him. With shiny [Knights].

Numbtongue stirred. Yes, theyd gotten to this too. Badarrow grimaced and Snapjaw looked down.

Bad spirits, Rabbiteater. Should have come here but too sad, thinking Numbtongue dead.

How far? We should find him.

The [Sniper]s ears twitched. We. He looked at Numbtongue.

Far. Very far, very fast. On horses. Butmagic door?

He glanced at Erin. Numbtongue nodded.

Well bring him back. Promise.

Erin nodded slowly. Definitely. Rabbiteater and Badarrow had lived. She felt

She felt so much that she was going to start crying. Again. And she hadnt stopped for two hours last night. To stave that off, because she didnt want to distress anyone, Erin looked at Snapjaw. Shed happy-cry later. Or sad-cry, as the case might be.

So youre an[Eater]?

Snapjaw had, with a bit of help from Bird and the Hobs, eaten almost all of the salt-baked goose. Bird was gnawing on bonesshe paused in chewing hers to pieces with ease.

Yes. I was a [Biter]. Now, [Eater]. I eat, I get strong.

What, thats it?

The female Goblin grinned at Erin.

Best class. You have more food? Badarrow saysays, all the timeThe Wandering Inn has pizzas, more food than anyone can eat. Kindest Human, too. I laugh and laugh.

She peered at Erin innocently. The [Innkeeper] laughed and Badarrow blushed. Erin got up.

I have tons of food. More thanwell, you can certainly have a pizza! Hold on!

She brought out one in five minutes, after heating it up. Snapjaw took a bite, a small one, chewed, and smiled. Then she began eating.

Not fast. She didnt eat fast, Erin noticed, unless she had to or it was something like the salt. But she never stopped. Nor did her stomach seem to be the limiting factor of her intake.

She ate, she grew stronger. And she loved to eat. She broke off from the pizza to look at Erin solemnly and tell her that she had excellent food. Erin was delighted! She only hoped that Mrsha didnt decide to copy Snapjaws class.

The five were talking as the sun rose. Snapjaw revealed one of her Skills[Body: Restore Stamina], as well as a Skill close to Hawks [Physical Overdrive]. However, both relied on her stores of energy from food.

Erin decided Snapjaw should have some of the lovely roasted corn Imani had madeRyoka had provided some amazing corn shed gotten from a farm up northa lasagna, and some ice cream. Everyone else was already full.

And soon they had company. A Gnoll raced downstairs, saw Badarrow, and leapt into his arms. Only then did Snapjaw lose her big smile as she ate. She stared at Mrsha and Erin saw her guilt as the Hobgoblin slowly edged away. Mrsha didnt even notice as she resumed the kiss-storm and hugs.

Time enough for that. And the Garden. AndErin saw other people filing downstairs. People peripheral to the Goblin event, who were not happy to see Badarrow and Snapjaw specifically, but happy that Erin was happy. She waved at Palt, Imani, who was eying the huge amount of food the Goblin was eating, and the others.

Yet there it was. There were dark spots in the sunshine. Things you had to reckon with. But do it together.

-

The last person with no smile that day heading for The Wandering Inn was Maviola El. She walked slowly.

Notwith physical exhaustion or limitations. Just over a month ago, she would have had to be pushed; walking was beyond her, then. And for years, her body had refused to let her dance or move with a spring in her step.

If it was tiredness, it was tiredness of the soul. Andmore than that, the fear of it still clung to her like a musk.

Terror. Again, not the kind you thought of. Immediate horror? No. This was a dread, like waking into a nightmare.

Maviola El was old. Her body was still youngbut that was because she had reverted to the actual Potion of Youth. Not the

Names were important. The [Lady Firestarter] tried to come up with a proper name for the two. She was no [Alchemist]. But one she would call a Potion of Youth. It gave youtemporary youth. Your body returned, and you could relive that glorious energy, that time in your life. It was not forever; it was a thing for the old.

One last hurrah. But the second potion that Saliss of Lights had made was different. Call it, thena Draught of Times Return. Yes, something like that. Because it took you back. Not just body, but mind.

Soul. And it terrified Maviola El, the older. She still remembered everything with perfect detail. She had blazed as she had as a young woman, more reckless, and perhaps more alive, more daring.

But more foolish as well. It had been like being possessed by her old self. And it frightened her.

Saliss had promised to try to keep her alive longer. He had managed it with a new ingredient.

Erins mysterious yellow flowers that were so magical. He had simplified his Potion of Youth. But the cost! The cost was her. It frightened Maviola, because she feared he could make the potion, and many more doses. Enough to keep her alive longer? If he leveled and if the flowers could be grown in profusion

But no. That was a terrible path. The same path she had refused. And worsethe choice was even clearer than when the Spider had come to her, the Temptress. Maviola had felt it.

For Maviola to live, this Maviola would die. And in her place would spring forth the same young woman who had lived nearly a century ago. What was the most sinister part of all of this? Saliss offered it out of good intent.

And it tempted Maviola. Could she notlive? Did she not deserve to try? To fight death, that unfair thing that snatched children away with the same careless malice as the old?

Never.

She had one last true Potion of Youth. The otherSaliss had offered her another. Maviola looked down.

One shone like golden sunlight in her hand. It was unreal, a color of magic that dimmed even the viridian liquid in the second vial. But one would lead her down

One more year. If I had one year, I could teach Olesm everything. Maybe find a solution that didnt take me from me. I just need time. So many have managed it

She clenched her handbut lightly. Afraid to crush the two vials, as if she could have shattered the enchanted glass. Maviola was afraid.

So she came to the inn where her trial had begun. And found it revolving around someone other than her. Well, that was fine.

We have so much to do! Wheres Ryoka? Fierre? OhMaviola! Look! Weve got two more guests!

Goblins?

The [Lady] stopped in her tracks. Of all the thingsshe looked at Snapjaw and Badarrow. Bright Goblins too. Close to the level of Chieftains, or a Tribes best warriors.

What madness are you bringing here, Erin?

The [Innkeeper] stopped and looked Maviola up and down. She was rushing around as her guests came downstairs.

Maviola? Youre

Im back.

Maviola remembered visiting the inn as younger Maviola. Erin Solstice, even the little Mrsha-child had noticed the change. Erin looked at her.

Did Saliss potion wear off? Is he helping? Hes been weird the last few days. I havent seen him since two days ago, but

It wore off. And yeshe has been helping. I feel more like myself. Do youwhats this about?

Maviola shuddered and reachedforgetting she no longer wore the shawl that kept her warm all the time. Sitting in a chair, giving ordersbeing wheeled about by Zedalien

But she had to remember the decades since she was young. Better to be old, surely? But looking at ErinMaviola wanted to blaze like that. To forget what a lifetime of regrets had made. She looked at the Goblins. She caught the [Innkeeper]s sleeve.

Their kind was what the Goblin Lord was made of, Erin.

The young woman turned back.

I know. Snapjaw was Reiss lieutenant.

Maviolas eyes widened.

And you let her

Do what? Live? Shes not evil, Maviola. I dont think Reisstheyre Goblins.

And they crave a King. You

The [Lady] cut herself off. Erin was looking at her defiantly.

Isnt this what you told me to do, Maviola? Take care of people? Make them better? Im doing just that! Even if its just feeding Snapjaw. She ate likemore than everyone else combined.

She pointed at the [Big Eater] who was indeed putting away hamburgers now. Imani seemed to be trying to clear Erins fast-food stocks out using Snapjaw as the disposal method.

Ithere is danger, Erin. But I

Maviola hesitated. And she felt two Maviolas trying to speak through her. Oneherwanted to tell Erin that there was a difference between Goblins and other species. Her generosity and aid was not best used impartially!

The other wanted to give Goblins a chance. Perhaps shed been wrong? Yes! The younger her would have tried if shed met Erin. She might be wrong about the Antinium. She had been wrong in some points about the Drakes, she realized, after meeting Olesm.

Perhaps the younger Maviola was the better. Not scarred by so many failures. And yetMaviola El, matriarch of the House of El, raged against her younger self. She had not lived to be cast aside!

Erin looked at Maviola and saw the dilemma. She turned.

Why dont you talk to Snapjaw and Badarrow before you make a decision, Maviola? Come onyou look like youre exhausted.

I am. A bit. IveSaliss potion has its drawbacks.

Erin brought Maviola over to a table. The [Innkeeper] sat Maviola down.

I can see that. Sorry for being snappyyou look awful. Wheres Olesm? Drassi! Something hot and Imani-breakfast for Maviola!

At work. I came becauseI apologize too.

Well, its good you came by. You havent really stayedyou were all Im young, lets go hike fifteen miles!, so I couldnt get ahold of you last week.

Maviola smiled a bit as Erin mimicked her. She had been all that. And Maviola distinctly recalled challenging that Drake [Wing Commander] to a duel? Shed had more bruises than she could count after that! Idiot.

Im sorry if I did anythingthe potion does change me.

Wellif it helps you, thats fine.

Erin conceded. She glanced towards the stairs.

Its just good youre here, Maviola. Remember I wanted your help?

With what, exactly?

There were any number of things Erin had asked Maviola for help with. Erin blinked.

The party at the Summer Solstice, remember?

I told you I wouldnt make it till then.

You said you were off by a few weeks. Well?

Maviola bit her lip. Damn that second potion. Damn magical flowers. Damn choices.

Iwhat about it?

The person who needs your help, Ryoka, is here. You met her, right?

The City Runner from yourhome? Of course. She has no levels, does she?

Erin blinked.

You know?

She has no aura for me to read. At leastnot in the same way. They are like that, those who refuse. Harder to use Skills on, sometimes. Certainly, harder to appraise.

The [Innkeeper] put her hands on her hips.

Well how about that. Ryokas upstairs. She really needs to talk to you. And your help, Maviola.

The [Lady] grimaced. She didnt really understand what was going on; Erin had not explained well. Winter Sprites and a party with the [Emperor]? But she nodded.

Send her to me when youre done. Ill

She looked at Snapjaw.

Ill wait here for a bit. And listen.

And think. Oh, there was so much to think about. As The Wandering Inn filled up, Maviola thought of her mortality. Izril. Andthe rot amid the flowers.

She knew of Tyrion Veltras. She had seen his appeal. Erin Solstice had not. But as the inn filled, news of it came in. The larger world, whilst the [Innkeeper] generated her own significance. Neither less important than the other, Maviola knew. It was just that everyone talked about one, and it was broadcast. But the magic here was no less valuable. The potential

As guests came in from Celum, Invrisil, Liscor, Esthelm, and not Pallass, a child was left unattended. It crawled across the floor and Mrsha peered at the baby again. The little red-haired infant was picked up by her mother.

Mrsha shook her head sadly. Some people never learned. She looked up to the stairs. Badarrow was back and hed brought a funny female Goblin who ate a lot! Now all that she needed wasRyoka Griffin.

-

If you knew Ryoka Griffin, you might understand. Understand why, on this day, Fierre watched her friend carefully. Why she feared.

The City Runner sat there. Her head was spinning. Still spinning, a day after she had heard of Mihaela Godfreys failed delivery.

Wellshe hadnt the time to process it with Erin screaming and crying and shouting about Badarrows return. That tended to take up the room, so Ryoka had asked Fierre to tell her the rest this morning.

Nowshe felt sick.

Shes alive, Ryoka. Alive.

Salamani sat on a chair as Ryoka and Fierre sat on the young womans bed. The Courier also knew. He looked disturbed.

I dont know how they got her. Fierre, do you know more? My friends didnt have specifics. Wellthey were worried. The Runners Guild in First Landing is practically dead.

The news I have is that Mihaela took five Couriers including Lacel the Leaper, who accepted the request.

Didnt he get his legs broken by the Guild? He must have gotten them healed by a [Bonemender Healer] fast.

Salamani frowned. Fierre nodded, never looking away from Ryoka.

They went down the main road in force.

Stupid. They had to know the Guild would come after them.

I think Mihaela wanted to punch through them rather than have them attack the rear. Thats just speculation. She must have thought they could use her Skill. But the [Assassins] laid a trap. I heard there were hundreds attacking at once.

Does the Guild have that many?

Ryoka looked up slowly. She remembered the [Assassin] shed met on the rooftops. He hadnt beenthe best. But he hadnt been trying to kill her, either. Fierre bit her lip.

The word is the Guild can toss [Assassins] at a problem if they need to. They havelinks. And they take on a lot of recruits. Lots of bases.

I see. But theygot Mihaela? How? She can move as fast as a lightning bolt.

Butshe had been coughing even beating up on Ryoka. All she had to do was stop at the wrong time. The City Runner closed her eyes. Fierre went on after a moment.

They left her alive. Both legs broken though. Thats a message.

Nagas. Of course it is. It means theyre not playing games. Two Couriers dead. Lacel wasntthat poor idiot. He wasnt the best. But he was a Courier. Id have placed odds on him if the Guild werent involved. And the rest?

Fierre hesitated. She looked at Ryokas face. She wasbut her friend looked up.

Show me, please, Fierre?

The Vampire girl wavered. But Ryoka would be able to find it anywhere she wanted. It was playing on the scrying orb in the rec room with Wistram News Network. She nodded.

Lord Tyrion Veltras stood in front of the camera. Ryoka Griffin stared at the mans face.

She hadnt actually known what Tyrion looked like. There were portraitsshed gone off them in her list of the leaders of the Five Families.

Magnolia of House Reinhart.

Tyrion of House Veltras.

Ulva of House Terland, once Petra and Ulva, the Terland Twins.

Raymon of House Wellfar.

Deilan of House Elor perhaps Maviola El, former matriarch and still living, sitting in the common room below with a cup of tea in her hands.

She had known only one of them personally and hadnt appreciated who Magnolia was for a while. Now, the man who was said to be her counterpart stood there.

He lookedwan. But Ryoka saw his posture was perfectly straight. A refusal to bow? Yet

I am Lord Tyrion of House Veltras. I will be brief. Just over a week ago, my sons, heirs to House Veltras, fell ill. They were poisoned. Held ransom, as is House Veltras unless I agree to terms. I have attempted to cure them, but every [Healer] and [Alchemist] I sought fell victim to the Guild of Assassins. The Circle of Thorns.

It was a public appeal. Ryoka Griffin felt like she was watching a statue speaking. Save for the cracks. Tyrion paused.

I have ascertained the nature of the poison and the cure for Hethon and Sammialmy sons. The recipe has been sent to every Mages Guild across Izril and other cities in the world. There is little time, however. I ask for any courageous individuals to manufacture the cure and send it to me.

His eyes flickered.

The Guild is targeting Couriers. They have sunk two ships at sea. I will offer House Veltras fortune to those who deliver the cure within the next few days. Any longer

He stopped. His eyes stared straight ahead. Past the viewer.

I appeal for aid. Thank you.

That was all. Fierre closed the box on the orb and put it away. She had seen many things as well.

Lord Tyrion Veltras, the famously inflexible leader of the northpractically begging for aid? She saw House Veltras reputation crumbling. And more

None of the Five Families can help? They have damned armies.

Theyre afraid. Alsoif they move, they become targets. They poisoned Tyrions sons. What will they do? Tyrion Veltras could probably ride to First Landing himself and grab the cure, but his sons might be dead by the time they return. He could surround his manor. The Guild would just cover it in a poison cloud or something.

Fierre bit at her fingernails. Her stomach growled and shed just eaten. Insane. Butbut

She looked at Ryoka. Salamani, who had not known Ryoka long, glanced at the City Runner. The Courier, after a moment, shook his head.

He sent that right after Mihaela fell. But I dont think many Couriers would risk it. And the [Alchemists] and [Healers]? They have to be terrified for their lives. The Guild is bigger than I thought. Itd be suicide to run that delivery, right?

Yeah.

Ryoka Griffin sat there. Salamani looked at her. She didnt meet his eyes. She was clasping and unclasping her hands. Fierre looked at the stumps where two of Ryokas fingers were. She had gotten that trying to outrun the Goblin Lord.

She had not known Ryoka from the beginning. But she knew her friend. AndRyoka Griffin was locked onto the place where Tyrions face had been. The Lord of House Veltras.

And

How old are his sons?

Ryokayoud never make it ten miles. Its too far. The Guild isnt playing games.

Salamani opened his mouth. He was catching on. Fierre saw Ryoka look up.

Im not stupid, Fierre. I know

Some things were terribly inevitable. But this timethe Vampire girl began to speak. Trying to tell Ryoka. This time? Not this time. It wasnt about being crazy. Every blade in Izril was waiting. And luck? Your luck would run out. Even if it didnt, could it turn aside the hundredth arrow?

But Ryokawas Ryoka Griffin.

-

Lord Tyrion Veltras sat there, for a while. The appeal was on repeat. Had been, since yesterday. Hed checked to make sure.

No one was coming. Two people had tried. One, a Courier, another a [Captain] from a Terandrian port. Neither had announced it.

The Courier had found the [Healer] lying dead in her burning shop. The [Captain] had been murdered in the cabin in his boat.

His appeal. Tyrion watched himself. He looked odd. The man did not make a habit of staring himself in the mirror. So stiff. So

Hed offered all the gold he could think of. Artifacts? Hed give them away to whomever made the run. Could he have offered a land reward? A title from his estates? Tyrion tried to think of any incentives he might have made. CertainlyCouriers from other continents might have dared it. Seve-Alrelious had offeredbut he would take too long against the typhoon. By sea would take too long.

His sons had days left at most. Tyrion was searching for any alternative. They were dying and he was looking for a way out. Playing games with their lives.

Could he have offered anything else? But what struck Tyrion nowwas how he looked.

So still. So impartial, appealing for his sons lives. The man stared at himself. And he wondered why Tyrion Veltras wasnt weeping. Other men had broken down on campaign to hear their mothers had died, to lose a friend in battle, a horse.

Not a single tear from this stranger. And nowTyrion wondered about something else.

Tears. Tearshad he ever shed any when Salva died? He remembered clutching her body to him. Screaming for them to find his sons and kill whoever had done this! Buthad he wept, as he buried her? As he swore vengeance and begged Magnolia to know who it had been? To make sure it was the Drakes before he decided to make them bleed?

No. Not at the pyre. Not at the wake. Not afterwards, not telling his sons, whod been shocked and silent. Not in the times after when he mourned and missed her.

It blurred your vision when you had to aim at the target. Steady hand. Like you were tilting

Tyrion stared at his hands. He touched them, one with the other.

He couldnt stop shaking. As if he had the most terrible chills.

Milord?

Jericha was watching him. Tyrion jerked. He tried to stand, caught himself.T/his chapter is updated by nov(ê(l)biin.co/m

Lord Veltras. You should eat. Rest.

Later, Jericha. Wherewhere is the [Assassin]?

The woman hesitated.

In her rooms.

I will see her. If Hethon and Sammial worsenthey have days. Let them hold out. They must. We must wait to see if the antidote may arrive. We must.

Lord Veltras

He turned to her. He had to explain.

It is not for me, Jericha. The contract would bind House Veltras to the Circle like a blade. Not just me. But you, the forceswe would be the blade of these people.

Wielded in defense of Izril, or so the [Assassin] claimed. Jericha looked at Tyrion.

We would not desert you, Lord Veltras.

That is not why. Jericha. I have no love for the Circle and they know it. We would be a blade. But what do you do with a sword when it breaks? A weapon you do not love?

You would use it and toss it aside. Duty compelled Tyrion to refuse, to try. Buthe would leave Hethon and Sammial naught but the ashes of his house.

But they would be alive. Tyrion strode from his quarters. He entered into the [Assassin]s room after she bade him enter.

She was lounging, her feet up. Tyrion stopped.

I have an appeal, [Assassin]. I would like to renegotiate the terms of the contract.

Lord Tyrion Veltras. Renegotiate? Now?

She clicked her tongue. Tyrion stared at the mask she always wore.

Surely your masters would prefer me to sign now, rather than risk the worst?

Her eyes flickered in the gaps of the mask.

Well, I can certainly take your appeal to them. They arent disposed to agreebut if you were to be persuasive, I could ask.

Do that. Please. I would be willing to sign. Now. If

Hold on. Kneel.

The [Lord] stopped.

What?

Kneel. Or bow. If you want me to send your terms, kneel.

She waited, smiling behind her mask. Lord Tyrion stared at her. Then, slowly, he knelt.

The [Toxin Expert] would remember this for the rest of her life. A worthless orphan from Chandrar, and one of the Five Familys heads was kneeling and begging. She laughed, giggling to herself. Worth it! Especially for someone who had nothing to regret or look forwards to.

But this?

Well, go on.

The man spoke behind gritted teeth.

I would be willingto sign the contract. A more powerful clause. Renounce myposition as head of House Veltras and serve this Circle as it needs.

The [Assassin] sat up. Thatwas something.

Really? And what do you want for such a generous offer?

My House will not follow me into oblivion. Not one of my retainers is to suborned. Nor my sons. I will serve your Circle in any capacity they might wish militarily.

Oh my. You are desperate.

He said nothing more. The [Toxin Expert] thought.

You know, my masters just might accept that. With some provisos. They want Lord Veltras after all. But perhaps they might accept.

Tyrions head rose.

Thenplease appeal to them. I will sign within the hour. Ihumbly ask you to do this.

The woman looked at Tyrion. And perhaps she had gone a bit mad with power. Or the Circle had chosen the wrong person to negotiate. She was mad enough to poison Tyrions sons. So she started laughing.

Not so fast, Lord Veltras. Ill appeal to my masters and they will weigh your offer carefully. They might accept. However, youll promise me something before I carry your words off. On your sons lives. Between us.

The [Lord] looked up. The [Assassin] winked one eye behind her mask.

What do you want, [Assassin]? Gold? An artifact?

She was almost tempted to ask for the Banner of House Veltras just to see his face. Butshe shook her head.

What I want, Lord Veltrasis a child.

He looked at her blankly. The [Assassin] made a gesture.

Ill be generous. Give it one try. Here and now.

Are you mad?

Mad?

Her voice was almost hysterical. She laughed and laughed. He looked at her as if she was insane. When she pulled herself upright, the [Assassin] shook her head.

Im an [Assassin], you silly little [Lord]. Im going to die sooner rather than later. But Id rather change all of House Veltras. An heir. Its a gamble. But Ill be content with that.

He just looked at her. Stared and stared. The [Assassin] was almost out of breath with laughing. The Guild wouldnt send her on a death-mission with an heir to House Veltras in her.

Icannot agree to that.

He spoke slowly. The [Assassin] sat up.

Oh, really? So you would let your sons die, Lord Veltras? Or am I too repellant for you? I assure you, youve only seen my clothing. And there are potions for that. Besidesyou might want another heir. Youre about to lose the two you have.

It was the wrong thing to say. The [Lord] rose. The [Toxin Expert] saw him stride to the door. She shouted after him, annoyed.

Youre running out of time!

The door slammed shut. The [Toxin Expert] sat there, breathing heavily, coming down from the high of audacity. She gritted her teeth; shed overplayed her hand by mentioning his sons. But she knewthe Guild was all-in on this. First Landings Guild was being watched. Every major Runners Guildevery person who could manufacture the cure. Every Courier. Yes, every single one.

Lord Tyrion Veltras would not receive a Couriers aid. If one even sneezed in his direction, theyd be taken down by overwhelming force. She relaxed in that knowledge. He might just sign the contract. But shed made him an offer

What Lord Tyrion Veltras needed, the one flaw in this perfect encirclement was the outside help the Circle and Guild couldnt account for. The cure had been leaked thanks to irregular specialists with a grudge.

[Witches]. If there wasany possible hopeit was that someone made a cure. And that someone who wasnt on the Circles radar could deliver it.

Not a Courier, who was being watched. The next best thing. A City Runner then, on the verge of being a Courier but who hadnt been certified as one. One brave or foolish orsomething, enough to listen to his appeal and risk it all.

Like

-

Lady Ieka Imarris was not fanning herself. In fact, the fan was shut in a drawer and she was sitting in a chair. She stared down at the City Runner in front of her.

Your name is?

Persua smiled and bowed, ostentatiously.

Persua, Lady Imarris. And I am honored to make your acquaintance!

Ieka stared at Persua until the young womans smile wavered. The [Lady] lifted a hand.

Well, Runner Persua, my personal [Alchemist] is hard at work. The cure will be ready within the hour. I trust you have a route planned?

The young woman had a sulky expression on her face for a moment. But then she gave Ieka a sycophantic smile.

Of course, Lady Imarris. And I have made ample preparations, as has my client. Would you like to hear it?

No.

Another pouty look. The City Runner annoyed Ieka on several levels. Firstlyshe clearly knew that Ieka was persuadable by members of her gender. She kept making flirtatious moves and she had dressed rather provocatively. However, Persua seemed to be under the impression that Ieka swooned for anyone.

Secondlyshe was simply overconfident and too full of herself. Ieka was itching to cast [Acid Orb]. As she always did with anyone who she didnt like.

Thirdly, she just wasnt Iekas type. Far too petulant and arrogant. But Ieka wasnt going to kill her. In fact, she was at this very moment waiting on the [Alchemist] to finish his work on the cure for Lord Tyrion Veltras.

What a stroke of genius it was. Ieka Imarris had not been happy about the poisoning the moment word and her orders had come down through the Circles ladders of authority to do nothing. Shed even consideredbut then shed received her second set of orders. And shed thought it was brilliant.

To turn a City Runner into a Courier and rescue Tyrion in his hour of need? And if Persua failedIeka thought Tyrion would sign the contract. Ieka eyed Persua and the City Runner smiled prettily at her, caught out in looking around Iekas personal room.

She might be the Circles agent. Or just some idiot whod been given several artifacts. And Ieka didnt want to expose herself by inquiring too much into which it was. Either wayPersua was useful.

Milady.

One of the [Maids] approached with something on a little pillow. Ieka took it as Persua started forwards. She held the vial, regarding it. Still warm from the process. Her [Alchemist] had worked on it for two days straight. She hoped it was good, for the boys sake. She showed it to Persua.

Here is the antidote for Lord Veltras. My personal [Alchemist] has synthesized eight doses with my help. Far more than is needed. Give no indication you are delivering to him.

Of course, milady. And dont worry about my safety! Im rather well protected. And a good Runner.

Persua smiled. Ieka eyed her again.

The young woman had a few decent Skills according to Iekas appraisal. But nothing to warrant that level of confidence when Mihaela Godfrey had just been stopped. Artifacts? Ieka had been slowly appraising Persua from head to toe. At last, she found what she was looking for.

Aha. Wait. That cant be

The layers of obfuscating magic revealed themselves to the [Mage Lady] as she finally identified what ring was on Persuas index finger. Iekas eyes widened as she handed the vial to the [Maid], but she covered it.

A Ring of Protection? Noa minor one. But thatthat was the highest grade of protection! It was all-encompassing, hence the name. Magnolia had to have been wearing a greater one when the [Assassins] went for her.

A Ring of Minor Protection was an insane gift. Ieka was almost tempted to kill Persua just for the ring. No wonder she was so confident. And that sealed it.

The orders had come from one of the Circles highest members. Ieka only wondered if the rest of the Circle knew. If soit was a brilliant stratagem. Either that, or the Circle was divided.

Best of luck, Runner Persua. Ihopeyou will survive. The odds are greatly against you, but Lord Tyrion is a personal friend.

I shall tell him you did your utmost to deliver this to him, Lady Ieka.

Ieka Imarris sighed. If Persua succeededshe would well and truly have Tyrion in her debt. If. Ieka had some wind of the Guilds orders and she knew more than Persua. The City Runner probably thought shed have an easy time of it, and that the [Assassins] wouldnt go after her.

The truth was that shed been marked as a lower-value target. No Faces were going to try to murder her, but a lot of the Ranks might give it a try. Well, good for them. Ieka wasnt sure who to root for, but she supposed Hethon and Sammial deserved the cureeven if it meant this was their hero.

And away the cure went. Ieka sighed. Plans within plans. She personally hoped Lord Tyrion just signed the damn contract. But either way

She wondered what Ryoka Griffin would have done. If Ieka could have chosenshe would have chosen Ryoka, or perhaps Delanay dArtien. But the less they had to do with the Circle, the better. Ieka was far kinder than the Circle. Theyd deployed to major cities in force. There were a lot of their best [Assassins] in Invrisil. Just as well, really.

She wondered if she could arrange for someone to steal the ring from Persua once the run was done.

-

Maviola El stood next to Ryoka Griffin. The two kept on eying each other. They had not metat least not in the way they really should have. Nor was this the moment.

Ryoka Griffin looked up, eyes wide. Badarrow was standing back, hand on his dagger. Snapjaw had retreated too. Maviola El was more appraising.

Thump. Thump. Thump.

It walked. The glowing eyes. The titanic body. A machine made of magic and metal. All it needed was a giant gun and Ryoka Griffin was all set to believe there was a battleship in orbit and this had all been science fiction rather than fantasy.

Thats one big Golem.

Fierre breathed. The huge head swung towards her. The Steel GolemAutonomous Classhalted on the creaking floorboards.

Well, the inns certainly strong enough to support the weight. Not all are, Miss Solstice, is it? But this beauty comes straight from the Illivere Federation. Not Magus-Crafter Femithains personal work, but it comes from his workshop. It can fight, perform manual laboreven clean itself! In tests, its killed Wyverns by itself. Not that youd want to let it do that, but anything up to a Wyvern wont be much trouble.

The [Artifact Merchant] was not Selys friend from Liscor, Farri Slightly, but a prominent [Merchant] from Invrisil. He was here with his stock, in The Wandering Inn.

So was Hedault. The [Enchanter] had requested him to come here. Now, the Golem rotated its head.

Looks nice, but itd never keep up with me.

Salamani sighed, eying the Golem up and down. The [Merchant], whose name was apparently Xerimedial, one of those flashy names for someone who sold to adventurers and the very rich, turned to him.

I regret to say that Golem Horses are out of my immediate stock, Mage Salamani. Most go for heavy-duty Golems. The kind you dont need to repair often.

Does it have a self-repairing function? And umwhats the alloy of the armor? Looks silvery.

Fierre waved her hand urgently. Xerimedial or Merchant X as Ryoka refused to call him, beamed and turned to her.

Well, Miss Lischelle, it isnt self-repairingthat would put this Golem far out of range of even most of my clients. But a skilled [Smith] can repair most damage and Illivere has a four-year warranty. Parts and service at a discount! As for the armorI dont believe silver is a large component.

The Vampire girl nodded slowly.

AndI can afford it?

With credit, you would have aboutfifty eight gold pieces left over. But yes. At Merchant Xerimedials prices, it is still certainly affordable. However, I would counsel you to negotiate.

Hedaults pronouncement made Xerimedials face sour only slightly. He was, in truth, in the best of moods. Because Hedault had brought him three clients with gold burning a hole out of their bags of holding. Fierre rubbed at her lips.

Its far from Reizmelt

A Golem could make the journey fast, Miss Fierre. If you care to step outside, Ill show you its max speed. It can runalthough that tends to tear up streets.

Fierre eyed the very sunny outdoors.

Ill pass for now. Ryoka, what do you think?

Huh? Oh, sorryI was thinking.

Ryoka had never played some of the popular figurine-based tabletop games on Earth. She had labeled it as mostly a guys game, and for collectors and assemblers at that.

Golems now, she understood the appeal. Shed collect this sucker all day. She turned to Erin.

Uhsowant one?

Erin Solstice, [Innkeeper] and owner of the inn whose ceiling the Steel Golems head was threatening to tickle, looked over at Ryoka. She worked her mouth a few times.

How rich are you?

Hedault sighed. Ryoka, Fierre, and Salamani had given him their artifacts to appraise and the [Enchanter] had had a field day. It hadnt been hard, really. Low chance of curses and the fact that it was all gear from individuals he could actually look up meant that it had been a smooth job.

The hardest part had been Ryoka. And others. He stared at a little Gnoll peering at him. Mrsha had been warned about trying to grab Hedaults special wand. The [Enchanter] vaguely shooed her away. Mrsha refused to go.

Its one Steel Golem. Id pay for artifacts, myself.

Maviola pronounced. Merchant Xs face fell slightly. He wasnt used to people who referred to Steel Golems as a unit of measurement.

True. But for my job? Imdo you have smaller models?

Certainly! Wood, Clayand we have other artifacts on sale! You are my clients of the day, Runner Ryoka, Miss Fierre, Courier Salamani!

The [Artifact Merchant] was selling his goods since Hedault had advised the three not to ask for only gold. Rather, he was willing to exchange their artifacts with Xerimedials help. The three would take a loss, but theyd get what was useful.

Ryoka still had a small plethora of potions and other running tools, but she was only too happy to give up the armor and weapons in exchange for things she needed.

And as it turned outwhat she needed was what Erin and her friends needed. The [Innkeeper] was flustered as Ryoka made the pitch.

Whatyou cant just give us all of your hard-earned money, Ryoka! You earned it!

Erin. Im offering it to you. This is just like the Players thingno, its different. This is useful. It could save lives.

I cant take it. I w

Erin got no further because Numbtongue came up and put his claw over her mouth. Erin looked around. He and Badarrow were crouched over the pile of gear.

This bow. Which is better?

Badarrow urgently held up two bows. Hedault brightened.

The bow on your right amplifies the force of each draw. On the other hand, the bow on the left has a rather unique enchantment which spins the arrow without lowering momentum as its fired.

Ooh. Oooh. I want that bow. Hedault, Hedault, what does this arrow do?

Arrow of Frost. Radius

The [Enchanter] liked Badarrow and Bird. They asked refreshingly straight questions without wasting his time. Merchant X on the other handhad a pained look in his eyes as he smiled at the Antinium and Goblin threatening to take the objects he wanted to add to his inventory.

But he was smiling at them. Hed probably smile at a Creler to sell that Golem. He turned to Erin, who had sidled over to the Golem and was trying to measure how many Erins would go into it. Mrsha the Mountaineer was trying to climb up a leg. Lyonette dragged her away.

Miss Solstice, is it? This Golem could be a fine addition to your inn. Imaginea worker that never needs to rest or sleep! That carries out orders like obtaining firewood, defends your inn

He didnt know his audience, though. Erins smile turned waxy.

No. NoGolems. Thank you, but Im not interested in

She hesitated. The Steel Golem just stood there. Erin peered up at it. Not like a skeletons head, butRyoka was turning Merchant X down too until the same thought occurred.

Maybe. Do they think?

That wouldchange things. Xerimedial hurried to assure Ryoka that they did not.

I have heard rumors Illivere managed to create a Sentient-class Golem. However, thats just hearsay based on one of their Golem Fights. Newest thing. I think Wistram is running a segment on them later this week. These Golems? Not a chance of rebellion!

Again, the wrong thing to sell the Golem. Ryoka relaxed a bit.

Break my chains, huh.

She wondered what a certain [Driver] would have made of them. But the Golem would eat most of her funds. She shook her head.

Fierre and Salamani are the ones interested in a Golem.

I want to see the cheaper ones.

And Ill look at spellbooks.

Naturally, naturally.

The [Merchant] hurried off. Meanwhile, Hedault was helping the three GoblinsSnapjaw was poking at Badarrow and pointing at things she wantedselect gear. Erin was dithering.

But guysthats Ryokas!

And when bad things come to inn, well kill them for her.

Snapjaw happily twanged Badarrows bowstring on his new bow. He waved a claw at her; he and Bird raced upstairs to try it out.

It looked like some of her gear was going to arm the Goblins. That was fine with Ryokaso long as she could afford a few things.

I have your orders, Miss Griffin. You requested along with my appraisal and crediting of funds, a, ah, defensive artifact for some individuals including standard Runners gear. Wonderfully vague.

Hedault gave Ryoka a long stare. The City Runner smiled.

I trusted an expert, Hedault. Mrsha, Mrsha! Dont walk near the Golem! Itll smash you! Come over here! I have something for you!

Ryoka? What did you get for Mrsha?

The [Princess]s irked voice made Ryoka remember theyd never settled things. She met Lyonettes gaze.

Nothing. But I did ask Hedault to find something Mrsha might need. Likean artifact to keep her safe.

Erin looked up. Lyonettes brows raised. Thatwas hard to argue with. Mrsha the Wizard developed a huge smile.

Oh man. Artifacts? Like what? How about a mithril shirt, Hedault?

Crunch, crunch. Everyone turned to Kevin. He was eating from a bowl of popcorn with the Earthers. They werent in the waySnapjaw edged over and grabbed a bowl for herself, sniffing at the yeast in a perplexed waybut it was weird to have an actual peanut, or rather, popcorn gallery.

Hedault gave Kevin a more forgiving look of patience. Erin looked excited at the prospect too, but the [Enchanter] just shook his head.

Todi nearly spewed his drink out his mouth.

Amentus? Thats what nobles drink! Its poisonous if you dont harvest it right!

Well, its cheap here.

The Captain looked at his drink and sighed.

Luck. Luck and friends. Thats what some teams get. And mine? Look, Miss

Selys.

He waved his mug at her.

I know Ive Crelered up my introduction. But give me the chance to explain. At least about adventurers.

Selys hesitated. She sat down.

Youve got my attention for as long as my friends playing cards.

Kevin was losing his weeks wages to a Drake with a bowler hat on, and a Gnoll with a borrowed tricone. It wasnt exactly the most stealthy get-up, but the inn was full.

Its like this. My teamTodis Elitesever heard of it? No?

Todi took another draft and sighed.

Were Gold-ranks. But I change out the team members constantly. People come and goIm the only constant. I own a bunch of gear. Scrolls of [Lesser Teleport], Wands of [Fireball], and so ona lot of our budget goes into making sure we have those at all times. You earn a lot less in my team, but you can join up for a single encounter and leave. And its safe. We never attack Adult Crelers, big threatsthe Wyverns were as bad as we wanted to get and even then, we played it safe. Bugged out both times we thought there was trouble.

How brave of you. Did you say Gold-rank? I happen to know a bunch of Gold-rank teams and that sounds like none of them.

Todi glared.

Whats wrong with my team? That were not brave to the point of charging a pack of Gargoyles with a water flask filled with piss? Whats wrong with being cautious? Thats how I survived. You want a hero? Go find a [Hero]. Im Captain Todi and my team wont do any of that. What we will do is wipe out four hundred Eater Goats on a rampage, without casualties, and with minimal cost. Were good at killing lower-level monsters. You want guard duty? We do it. No fuss, no drama.

Selys blinked. Thatwas an interesting perspective. Todi went on, seeing he had her interest.

Gold-rank means a lot of things to a lot of people. Ever heard of the Silver Swords? Theyre maniacs. Dont charge a copper penny for work and theyll fight any monster you want because its just. Why does my teamwhy do adventurers have to be like them? Who made that rule?

He leaned forwards, speaking urgently. Even passionately.

They risk their lives against odds no [Gambler] would take, Miss Selys. Thats not fair on the rest of us. Gold-rank should mean elite, hence my teams name. But not like that. Im all for the Silver Swords. Theyre brave bastards. But call them heroes. Dont make what they are the word for Gold-rank.

He sat back, and sighed, looking tired.

I just want to make my team famous for doing the job. Get rich. Retire and have a family in a decade or two at most. Thats all. We kill monsters. We still risk our lives and do free work when it matters. You want to slay a Giant, Miss? Go find those teams. But you want reliable? Boring? Hire Todis Elites and forget about it aside from settling the bill.

He sighed. Selys looked at him.

And thats why Erins not going to like you. She likes the crazy types. Those are her friends.

The man groaned.

Wonderful. What a waste of six silveralthough thats a cheap ticket to that play. Maybe Ill watch it, and earn something for my trouble. Dont need a two-gold ticket for that, do I? Sorry for wasting your time, Miss.

He nodded at the Players and rose. Selys hesitated, and then waved at Todi as she passed.

The players put on a performance multiple times. Sit back down, Captain Todi. Youre not the Hornsbut how much do you charge?

The Captain turned, perking up a bit. He was not Selys first choice, or the most likable at that. But there was no reason to ignore him. After allthe Horns might be Selys friends, and brave and generous

But shed be the first to admit they were as unpredictable as two Mrshas in a sack.

-

Octavia Cotton was working on the first Potion of Invisibility according to her new recipe from Master Saliss. She was humming, despite concentrating hard on her work.

The thing about working on the potion was that even with Saliss perfect step-by-step notes and detailed measurementsit wasnt the same as how Octavia would have to do it.

Different Skills, even beneficial ones, made for different results. Shed have to experiment. But she would master the potion and earn a lot of money off of it if she could make the ingredients cheap.

Alchemy was like that. Even if they lost great individuals, ingredients and recipes lasted when spells and other things fell apart. Techniques survived. Octavia turned to reach for the ruby dust

Here.

A black-clad hand offered it to her. The [Alchemist] absently took it, put it in the mixture, and looked back.

A Drake garbed in thick, dark clothing was staring at her. Octavia dropped the potion.

[Longclaw Grip].

The [Assassin] rescued the vial. He put it on the stand and Octavia backed up.

IIoh Stitches. Please dont

The noise from the common room intruded in the background. Few people were visiting her shop, but the door was always open. Oh no, oh

Youre not going to be killed, Alchemist Octavia Cotton. I was simply inspecting the premises. And your potion. Not the cure.

The [Assassin] hopped off the counter. She hadnt seen him appearbut Octavia wouldnt have noticed much while working.

Iwho are you? The Guild? I didnt

Calm. Down.

Octavia didnt calm down, but she did stop moving as the Drake looked at her. He exhaled through the mask covering his face.

I am one of the Guilds agents in Invrisil. They sent me to check on you. After allyou are known for your cure for the Yellow Rivers. I would have been forced to do something if you were making the cure.

Im not. I wont

The Drake rolled his eyes.

I know. I wouldnt have revealed myself, either. Only

He hesitated. Octavia saw him adjust his mask.

You wont see me again, Miss [Alchemist]. But I joined the Guild to pay for my family. They live in Zeres. Thanks for making the mold. Please dont make the cure. I dont want to have to kill you.

He vanished. Octavia didnt see himbut neither did she see the door to her shop open and close. She inhaledexhaledinhaledthen went for one of the Calm Tonics that Palt had taught her how to make. Her hands trembled as she got back to work.

They were in the inn. Oh, stitch my soul. Erin

A voice. The [Assassin] reappeared. Octavia froze, but he had some gold and silver in his claw.

If that potion works, can I buy it? Whats the price on?

-

The [Innkeeper] frowned at her board. She had a feeling something was off.

Aha. Six moves. Right there. I move up here and

Olesm groaned as she spotted a pattern in his pieces.

Would you like to rub it in with more salt, Erin? Just peel off my scales and pour it in.

She laughed.

I knew something was wrong! It was my chess-sense.

She waggled her arms. Olesm sighed. He pushed himself back and reached for a nacho

The basket was empty. Olesm stared about and saw a white paw with the last nachocovered in cheesevanish under the table.

Mrsha! You again!

Erin laughed. Mrsha shot away, trying to chew and run. Olesm shot up.

I need to refill my basket. One second. Get back here, you!

He missed the little Drake and second, brown Gnoll, slowly appearing over the side of the table. They stared solemnly at Erin. Then Ekirra grabbed the dips. Visma grabbed Olesms plate. They ran off.

Those sneaky kids.

Erin chuckled to herself. Then she looked around.

Whoa. The inn is hopping.

It was so full! People were here to see the Players of Liscorin fact, Pralcem was here with Andel to take notes on the play and attracting a bunch of attention for that alone. Galina was on stage, playing the heroine while a Gnoll sang to her.

Erin couldnt hear it, though. A new addition to the inntemporary, but Lyonette had hired Hedault to finalize itwas to divide the [Grand Theatre] into a sound room and silent area. Ward runes that Montressa had put up blocked noise from both sides of the inn.

Thus, you could have all the chatter you wanted and a solemn inn experience. A [Darkness] spell and the mood was set. And if you wantedsomeone could deliver some food. Although nachos had been instantly banned due to the crunch.

That was just one thing in the inn. So many people! Erin frowned. Lots of people. She had a strange feeling in the back of her head, though. As if

Before she could trace it, someone stopped in front of her table. Erin blinked upwards at a familiar face.

Excuse me, Miss. Would that happen to be Strategist Olesm Swifttail of Liscor you were just playing? Author of the magazine, Chess Weekly?

That was what hed called it? Erin blinked up at the man in expensive clothing. Noarmor made of cloth? She recognized him. But from where?

Um. Er. Yes, that was him.

I knew it.

The man snapped his fingers with a smile. He looked fancy. And Erin remembered where shed seen him.

The restaurant! You were the guys who didnt get your reservation!

The man did a double-take.

I dont believe weve met, Miss. Youre Strategist Olesms opponent, yes? Would you mind allowing me the next game once youve finished your match?

Ohsure! Of course! Are you a reader of Olesms magazine? Im Erin, nice to meet

What rudeness! Marshal, allow us to introduce you!

Someone blocked Erins handshake. A man in armor thrust himself between Erin and the other man. Erin peered at a bristling mustache. Then the same group as last night blocked Erin.

The man in the back sighed. He was purple-and-silver haired. Not the white of agealthough he did look to be in his fortiesbut some genetic hair color. It was striking. He wore the shaped cloth armor, and he stood very tall. Erin saw a hawkish nose, piercing yellow eyes

He looked like Yvlon or Ylawes, a bit. The product of what Lyonette had told Erin were unique Skills. Certainlythe man oozed his own aura.

Erin couldsense it. Thanks to Maviolas training, she could tell more than just if someone was strong. This man had his auratightly containedas did two of the armored people with him. [Knights]? His aura though, felt likedroplets.

Water.

Is something wrong?

The [Knight] in front of Erin glared.

Miss, do not casually address the Earl of Desonis! You are speaking to the Marshal Altestiel of Desonis, and as such, his proper title

[Knight]. Enough. We are in this young womans inn. And thisis Erin Solstice.

The Earl interrupted the [Knight]. And his entourage started. They blinked at Erin.

This is the owner of the Solstice booth? The one who cancelled

A loud whisper from the back. Erin saw a woman in spectacles peering at her. The [Knights] blinked. But the EarlAltestielwas watching Erin with keen eyes.

Of course she is. And that was Strategist Olesm of Liscor. Miss Solstice, my apologies.

No problemyour Earlship?

Erin gave it a shot. She saw one of the [Knights] actually rub at an ear and stare at her. Someone snorted.

Altestiel smiled.

Let us not stand on ceremony. Altestiel will do if I may address you as Erin? Did I see you playing chess against Strategist Olesm?

Whoh, yeah. Just a few games.

Fascinating.

Are youyoure an Earl from Desonis. And thatsa kingdom in Terandria?

Erin was very taken aback. What was one of them doing here? That outranked a [Lord], right? One of the [Knights] opened his mouth furiously and the Earl made a sound. It was close to a whistle, but muted. Instantly, the [Knight] straightened.

I would hate to get in your way, Miss Solstice. And I do apologize for my subordinates rudeness.

Not at all. Um

Erin! You have to get Mrsha to stop stealing my food! Its not funny! Argh! Wheres my condiments?

Olesm came back with a full basket of nachos and had a fit when he saw the theft. Erin looked at him blankly.

Olesm. Youve got guests. This is the

She looked around. The Drake turned, but the Earl and his group were gone. They were sitting back down. The man inclined his head and raised a finger to his lips.

Who?

Someone wanted to see you. A fan, I think.

Oh. Wellare they here?

Um. They wanted to play you after this game

Olesm turned pink under his scales.

I dont want to keep them waiting. Lets continue, Erin. Who were they? Wdid they just step out?

Theyll come over after were done. Uhcheck.

The distracted Drakes face fell. Erin was winning this game, like the others. He did his best, but Erin had not only had an advantage on a technical level, he was now preoccupied. Shesmashed him.

The Earl came back after Olesm was studying his loss.

Quite impressive. Strategist Olesm? My name is Altestiel. I am a huge, humble fan of your magazine. Ive travelled to Invrisil in hopes of meeting you. Could I ask for a moment of your time?

The Drake stared up at him. He had some sauce on his tunic, crumbs around his mouth, andflustered he stood up.

A reader? Im delighted to meet you! Olesm Swifttailbut you already knew this. Are you? Altestiel? Well met! Where are you from? Is that your group?

My escort. Half of them play chess well. Wed be delighted to play a match against you. And your magazineIve bought every issue. Wonderful commentary and games. My condolences for the attack on Liscorand congratulations on your new class.

You know aboutIIthank you!

Overwhelmed, Olesm shook the mans hand. Erin was out of her seat and watching carefully. Olesm didnt miss how obviously rich Altestiel wasor the fact that he had two [Knights] escorting him and Ilvriss equivalent in subordinates.

May I ask who I am meeting?

The Drake slowly met Altestiels eyes. The [Earl] smiled.

-

[Knight Marshal of the Rains] Earl Altestiel of the Kingdom of Desonis, one of the kingdoms to the east of Terandria and out of the immediate Ailendamus-Dawn Concordat conflict, sat across from Olesm the [Strategist].

He had come via First Landing with a small escort to meet Olesm. To. Meet. Olesm. The Drake was so nervous he could barely place his pieces.

You came all this way?

Desonis is at peace for the moment. And I am not always needed.

Iknow you. Your storm campaigns are textbook in Manus!

Hes famous?

Erin whispered to Palt. The Centaur had spotted Altestiel. The [Illusionist] nodded.

Hes a weather-strategy expert. You go up against him, youll fight in the rain and muck while his people dont even feel it. Not the best [Strategist] in the worldhes a [Knight Marshal], close to a [General] in nature. But really good.

Whoa. Good for Olesm.

Palt eyed Erin, but the [Innkeeper] meant it. Altestiel didnt seem like a jerk, either. His entourage were a bit Pisces-sniffy, but he was an [Earl].

Whats Olesms odds, Erin?

Umgood.

Really?

Erin couldnt help but shrug. Why did people think that levels mattered in chess? They did not. And Olesm had been playing nonstop. He breathed chess.

They both look good. I cant just appraise them from like, the way they sit. But I wouldnt say its out of Olesms claws. Say, Palttheres something on my mind.

She felt that prickling again and turned her head. But there were so many peoplePalt raised his brows, then stepped back.

Excuse me. Miss Erin Solstice? My apologies for earlier. Would you care to play a game of chess whilst Earl Altestiel and Strategist Olesm are busy?

The same woman with spectacles approached. Her hair was proper silver. And she wasErin blinked.

Are you a [Strategist]?

Yes, Miss. Strategist Kiish at your service. I would be gratified to play a game of chess with you. I see there are multiple chess boardsyou clearly play yourself?

Sure! I love to play!

Erin brightened up. She pointed and the two sat at a table. Palt peered at Kiish. And he saw something.

The [Strategist] sat down, and adjusted her spectacles.

Miss Solstice, would you care to play an Unrestricted game, or a Skill-less game? Magic-less?

Huh?

Erin was blank. Kiish hesitated.

Are you aware of the game types of chess? We can play without using Skills. Or artifacts or other magical aids.

She gave Erin a long look, as if this was common knowledge. Erin hesitated.

I dont have any of that stuff. I mean, sure. Lets play Unrestricted!

That would be me using my Skills, Miss Solstice.

I know. That sounds like fun! Do you have some?

The [Strategist] turned and gave some of her companions a long look. She smiled slightly.

As you wish

Palt smirked a bit. Skills and magic only worked so well against Erin. Most Skills were probably predictive or which allowed chess players to analyze the board fast, especially if playing speed-chess. But it didnt make up for Erins expertise in the game.

Stillhe watched as Erin moved forwards a chess piece. Palts eyes flickered. Because he had noticed something.

Earl Altestiel was playing a close game with Olesm. But Kiish had chosen a table after some deliberation behind Olesm. And every now and thenthe [Knight Marshal]s eyes would flick up.

He was watching Erin play. And he did not have long to wait.

Checkmate!

Strategist Kiish stared at her board, in a state of shock. She had played Erin in a speed-chess game, using her Skills. It was, as everyone in her group knew, her absolute specialty since her Skills allowed her to make rapid decisions despite the tight timer.

Ihow did you?

It was something of a stupid question because she had seen Erin patently outplaying her. But the [Strategist] couldnt handle it. Erin wiped at her brow. Nothing like a good game of speed-chess to get the blood pumping!

Pleaseplay me again. Id like to

Kiish. My turn. If you would accept my challenge, Miss Solstice?

One of the two [Knights] sat down. Erin blinked. Then she smiled.

Well, of course! Unrestricted? What about a normal game? Timer of two minutes? I wish I had a proper counter

I can fulfill that role, Miss.

One of the underlings spoke up. Erin blinked. They took this game seriously! Which she approved of! She played, oblivious.

Skill levels. Palt was no great chess-player. But he could tell that the group from Desonis were good. Really good.

Which meant Erin was crushing them like flies on the wall. Because they were probably better than Olesm had been before Erin had met him, especially with Skills.

But they didnt have Earths chess strategy and lessons backing them up. Nor were they even half as experienced as Erineven if theyd played day in and day out since the game of chess had been invented.

The skepticism and amusement the Desonis group had brought to the table turned into concentration. And thengrudging respect. And then awe.

Olesm and the [Knight Marshal] played three games. Olesm took two, and stood up, trembling, to shake the Earls hand.

You are a magnificent player, Strategist Olesm. I am considered the best player in my kingdom by farand Ive challenged all of Terandrias finest players to the south. I daresay you might give the Lord of the Dance a strong challenge.

The Earl was admiring. Olesm was beaming.

Thank you, Earl Altestiel! But youre so well-read. And your strategy

Theyd been talking chess and actual battlefield strategy. Olesm was a teacher in one regard, if a humble one, the Earl an unquestionable leader in the other. Altestiel chuckled.

But chess is such a wonderful game in peace. Do you think theres any chance our games could make it into the magazine? I would be delighted to perform one of the analyses of the games.

II would be so honored. Of course, Earl!

The [Strategist] was star struck. And the Earl was vastly engagedbut then he looked towards Erin.

She was replaying Kiish. The [Knight Marshal]s eyes sharpened.

I wonder, though. That young womanInnkeeper Solstice seems quite good at the game. Do you think I might trouble her for a game?

Erin? Shesquite good. Better than me.

Olesm chose his words carefully. And the Earlnodded. He walked over and Kiish looked up.

Knight Marshalexcuse me, Miss Solstice. I believe the Earl would like to play you

Olesms head turned. So did Palts. Aha. But Erin just looked up at Altestiel and shook her head. She beckoned to Kiish.

Dont be silly! Were playing. No one interrupts a chess game, no matter how much a big shot they are.

Very true. Strategist, Kiish, do your best. Miss Solstice, are you an expert in these speed-games?

I like them now and then. Kiish is really good. I might lose this one.

She is using all her Skills and you are not.

The earl observed quietly. Erin laughed.

Thats what makes it fun! Shes just playing at her best! Its not cheating. Chaldions as close as it comes to cheating.

The group fell silent for a moment. Someone spoke.

Youve played Grand Strategist Chaldion?

He comes in here now and then. Not this week, probably, but you might be able to play him?

I should surely wish to. If that could be arranged. But I think you may be a rather fitting opponent, Miss Solstice. Not that I could beat Strategist Olesm.

Wellyou werent using your Skills.

The [Innkeeper] gave Altestiel a sly look. He blinked. Olesm started. And then Altestiel smiled wider.

Kiish lost. She had a chance, as Erin pointed out, but her nerves got the better of her. And then the [Knight Marshal of Rains] sat down.

A Skill-less game?

Unrestricted. I want to play your best. What about a speed-game to feel the waters? Then we can try a regular one.

That sounds quite delightful. I accept with gratitude.

Erin was smiling wider than ever. Palt sighed. He could stop her. Butwhy? Just look at her.

She knew who he was. But knowing how good Altestiel was just made Erin happier. She sat there, arranging her chess pieces with long experience. And when she looked up

The pressure was on him. Perhaps it was like experience. Or an aurajust not one Palt was familiar with.

Look at this expert. Erin Solstice, the monster of chess. And the Earl, unlike his subordinates, did not take her lightly. He never had, Palt realized. He began activating his Skills.

Erin began playing her best.

-

The first game of chess was fast. The two agreed to the lowest timer possible. Youd call this a Bullet Chess gameif you were from Earth. One minute per player, max.

That was the fastest kind of move since neither player could slow down. Without Skills you were in trouble. And Kiish had pulled Erin to the brink at that speed; even an expert from Earth would have trouble at top speed where you could make mistakes.

But there was one thing that even Altestiel hadnt predicted.

Erin had one Skill she could use.

Oh. Oooh. Ooooh.

Bird stared. Belgrade, Olesmall the chess fans who sometimes challenged Erin and watched her games were crowded around. The Desonis group were silently cheering their leader. The game moved fast

And it moved slow. Erin Solstice lifted a chess piece. She was smiling. Laughing. Even talking. This

The [Knight Marshal] stared at her. The pieces sounded like thunder in his ears. They talked. Conversation between the chess pieces touching the board. He had been prepared to learn the first game, win the second. But he threw all of his Skills and his observations into this first game.

She provoked him. Dont throw this first game. Challenge. Me. For this was their first game. Their best game.

An [Immortal Moment] for an immortal game. One they might remember forever. If only you gave it your all.

Palt watched. With Skills, the [Knight Marshal] wasOlesm was annotating the game with Kiish and the others, frantically, making whispered commentary. It was magnificent. It was the highest level of play, it was

Sort of boring if you didnt like chess. It was still chess. Mrsha stared at the board for an entire minute and padded off. Erin had boring hobbies. But good for her.

Chess wasnt for everyone. But those it was for

Draw.

Erin spoke. Altestiel exhaled. Sweat was beading on his brow. Kiish dabbed at it. The room exhaled.

That was a great game. Fumbled it at the end. Right here. When I moved that bishop

The [Innkeeper] sighed. She was pointing. Altestiel nodded. The silence around them broke into murmurs.

Another game?

Of course. Not speed chess? I dont think I could usethat Skill again.

Erin smiled shakily up at him. The Earl felt like a Giant had shaken him. He nodded.

Permit me a moment to refresh myself.

Of course! Drinks! Drassiand the outhouse is

The scandalized looks from his retinue aside, the Earl stepped back. He did indeed walk outside. Just to calm down.

He was Earl Altestiel. The same player whod taken second in the unofficial tournament between the best players when chess had first emerged. Who had taken Lord Bel to seven of ten games in the finale.

And this inn had the opponent who made Altestiel sweat when hed been ice-cool during all those games. Worseno, better

He had played his best. But it looked like Erin Solstice had just begun to get into gear. The Earl laughed. Then he turned to Kiish.

Kiish. I have an order for you. I was right. So

He walked back inside for the second game. ThenAltestiel focused everything into the game. Erin was stretching, accepting a non-alcoholic drink of course. Light snacks were important to keep your brain going. Just dont get anything on the chess board!

One of his Skills was on cool down, the second could only be activated five minutes in. Altestiel began sweating again. He was falling behind. It was a fundamental lack in the basics. Because Erin just had more knowledge of chess patterns. But close. Closethey went at each other, talking seldom, mostly just focused.

He lost. His entourage actually moaned, as if hed taken a wound in battle. The Earl just sat back as Erin laughed and offered a hand to shake.

Great game, another?

He glanced up at her. She smiled. Not gloatinga tiny bit of victory, well-earnedbut mostly just the love of the game shining in her eyes.

Of course!

He nodded. The board was set a third time. And as the Earl sat back, relaxed now hed well and truly lost, preparing all the questions he wanted to askhe had to learn morehe raised a finger.

It was just a casual gesture. But Kiish stepped back. She was a [Spellwater Strategist]. Superior to [Strategist] Olesm in combat, if not chess. She executed the [Knight Marshal]s orders in that moment and only Palt noticed. And he just sensed the mana movingnot the spell.

Forgive me, Miss Solstice. But I came here to find you, as well as Strategist Olesm. Though I did not know if you were here. The Earl adjusted his posture. He moved his seat back. Rested one elbow on the table, and smiled towards Kiish.

Erin was looking down at the board. Laughing, munching on a nacho while she showed him an opening. The [Knight Marshal] looked up.

Click.

Well, it wasnt that sound. But it was close to that. Kiish stepped back. Her fingers were a blur as she pulled out a piece of specialized magical paper. Ink ran from a special holder as she drew.

Vision became ink, thanks to the spell. The [Knight Marshal] stood, on the pretense of getting a drink.

Sir.

The [Strategist] handed it to him. He regarded the mage-picture.

Wonderful, Kiish. Now

Altestiel wrote for one moment, handed it to her. She walked out of the inn. Back into Invrisil.

It was just a tiny thing. And the picture went to only a few people. Only a few. But the first onethe only onevia very private [Message] was this. Altestiels note only had one word.

To Niers Astoragon, Titan of Baleros from Knight-Marshall Altestiel of Desonis:

Her?

And the picture was attached. The Earl walked back to the board. He sat back down and with certainty, prepared to learn from the Titans famous chess partner. Chessand more. He had no plan other than that.

Some people were just chess lovers.

-

All things being as they wereit was a night to remember. And perhaps not Fierres firstbut new enough that she was wide-eyed.

A [Knight Marshal] from Terandria? All these people flooding into the inn? Andthe Vampire girl paused in watching Erin play.

Three [Assassins] in the inn. One in Octavias shop, two in the common room.

It was something Erin had sensed, but the chess game was occupying her. Palt might have noticedor not. He was distracted and he wasnt exactly a fighter.

Fierre on the other hand? She was an information broker. More than that, she was inherently suspicious. Alsoa Vampire.

She could smell them. Their blood, hear their beating hearts. All three were invisible. Nonot quite invisible. But using some kind of cloaking to blend with the crowd unless you really focused on them.

Fierre knew they were there. Shed checked on Octavia to make sure. And she was not the only one wise to them.

So youre an [Archer]? Respectable, respectable, sir. Were just fellow card players with Mister Numbtongue. Ill raise that bet. Ratici?

Wilovan tipped up his tricorne and the [Thief] calmly took a sip.

Fold.

Experts in their fields had ways of tracking even the most elusive. Maviola El would have surely read their fire or whatever trick she employed. Todi was frowning at a stone on his wrist as he spoke to Selys. Montressa was nudging Bezale as she sat next to Wilovan. The [Spellscribe] might have been distracted.

It was allFierres fingers drummed nervously on her table. She looked aroundthen abandoned her seat.

Delanay dArtien was animatedly talking with Numbtongue.

You like crossbows? Izrilians tend to think theyre not as good as bows, but theres less training needed.

Mhm. Badarrow doesnt. [Sniper]. I have crossbows.

Where, pray?

The Vampire girl peeked up from the edge of the table as Numbtongue pointed to a wall.

Secret compartments. Got five over here. See

-

It was all a disgrace. That was surely what shed say.

Deilan El sat, watching the replay of Tyrion Veltras practically begging for aid. He had gone silent. Timetime was running out.

The scrying orbs could be engineered to replay sights. Well, the good ones, that was. Even take still images. Deilan El, the new leader of the House of El shook his head.

Disgraceful. Zedalien. What would Maviola do?

The half-Elf bowed slightly.

Something troublesome, Im sure, Lord Deilan. But she did not choose you to be her clone.

Yes. That is true.

Deilan knew Maviola had chosen him because he was more cautious then she was. He would never have backed the Kaalblades project, for instance. Her ideas had sometimes paid off welland she was a skilled negotiator, amazing at balancing a nonexistent budget, powerful, canny

But she took risks that had beggared the House of El, much like her predecessors. Shed had to take risks because they were in so much financial debt and uncertainty. But shed decided Deilan was the best to replace her.

He wondered if it had simply been a matter of choosing the least inept. He did not feel like a second Maviola, or even a Tyrion or Magnolia.

And look at them now. One fled, the other begging for aid.

Deilan didnt know what to do. He was unsureif his life were endangered. Certainly, the House of El could replace him, new as he was. Would the Circle go after him?

Am I under qualified for this position, Zedalien?

The uncertainty of youth, Lord Deilan. Not one of your predecessors did not ask that question.

The half-Elf heard Deilan laugh.

This is why we need half-Elves, Zedalien. Please reconsider.

My time is through, Lord Deilan. But my replacement will serve the House of El.

Deilan nodded slowly. Even so. Even sothis was a crisis. And something had to be done. Buthe closed his eyes.

Theres nothing for it.

He stood up. And walked off to send a [Message].

-

At the same time, Maviola was trying to muster the Five Families for Ryokas impossible mission. She was reaching out to people she knew. Gresaria for Wellfar, but it was still hard.

Thoughtless girl. Headstrong, always rushing about. No plan other than to run and hope it works out.

Maviola was insulting Ryoka as she wrote [Messages]. But she couldnt help but feel like every accusation was something shed heard hurled at herself at that age. It was true Ryoka could be more thoughtful. But she was young. And youth

Grandmother?

For a second, Maviola felt like she was in her chair. A flickering fire not of her make warming her old bones. She turned

Desinee?

The [Lady] stood there. A baby, red-haired, gurgled in her arms and tried to climb onto the counter. Two [Guards], looking quite nervous, flanked the [Lady].

She was in disguise. That was to sayher dress was not silk, and she was not adorned with much richness. It was a terrible disguise, though. Desinee was still Desinee.

NeverthelessMaviola folded her arms as her niece stared at her.

Grandmother Maviola

Desinee El. I should have known my family wouldnt be content to let me die without haunting me to my grave.

The [Lady] flinched, but she looked at Maviola defiantly.

One of us should be here, Grandmother! Ivolunteered. I wasnt going to say anything

You dont have to. I saw my great great grandson wandering about on the floor.

Maviola made a disgusted sound. The babyQibbygurgled at her. She reached out and he grabbed her finger. Maviola touched his small headhe already had his fathers faceand then glowered at Desinee.

And why are you bothering me?

UmumDeilan, that is, Lord Deilan wanted me to ask

Desinee stammered. Maviola might look younger than her, but the glare had ruled the House of El longer than Desinee had been alive.

He wants advice? Tell him to figure it out! Either it works or it doesnt. Just dont get people killed. So long as you do that, it works out.

Maviola was incredulous. The nerve of Deilan! Had she chosen wrong? Butthen Desinee spoke again.

Its about Tyrion Veltras.

Ah.

The [Lady Firestarter] paused. She handed the slips to the Gnoll [Receptionist] and turned back to Desinee. One of the [Guards] bowed; she sniffed.

Pay the Guild would you, man? I was putting it on the House of Els credit. But I might as well settle up.

At once, Lady El.

They meekly scurried past her. Maviola stepped away with Desinee. The [Lady] jiggled her child.

The Circle of Thorns

Theyre fools.

But they have the Guild

And they fought with Magnolias grandmother and theyve been on Izril since we were. Yes, yes. So what? They do not threaten one of the Five Families. If I were in charge and Gresaria and I were your age, we would be hanging [Assassins] like grapes off a vine! Petra and Ulva would be fighting as well. And Cirike

She paused. Dead names, that Desinee had only ever heard, no faces to match. Maviola shook her head.

Each generation. Magnolia and Tyrion, the terrible duo born of the Antinium Wars. Both idiots in their way. One can make money, the other swing a sword. But neither are well loved. Ulva hides in her House, mourning Petra

It was the same refrain. Desinee nodded.

But Grandmother. What do we do? We could

She clutched her son until he started crying. Then Desinee held him and stroked his head, whispering to him.

Youre holding your weakness, Desinee. Of course your enemies will aim at it.

Maviola felt weary. She shook her head.

Its not for me to decide. Iam not matriarch.

Lies. You live! And while you live, Deilan lives in your shadow! Her younger self whispered to her. Maviola clenched her fist. It would be so easy. But she turned away.

Desineetheres no cure. I had the same talk with a young idiot. If Deilan wants to intervenewhy? Tell him to ask himself that. Is it because it is wrong, morally? Because it damages the Five Families and thus the House of El? Because they might go after him next?

And?

Desinee hung on Maviolas words. The [Lady] looked back at her.

And then tell him the reason doesnt matter! If he movesif he fightsdo it with a damned plan! Ryoka GriffinDeilan is twice her age! But youre both children. If you are going to dare this Circle, do it with a plan or not at all!

Ryoka Griffin would die, running alone. You neededMaviola closed her eyes as Desinee bowed.

Grandmotherwont you sit with me? At least with Qibby. You still have time.

The [Lady] stared at Desinee, and the baby. She reached out and then lowered her hands, shaking her head.

Go, Desinee. And tell Deilan not to bother me. If I sit with youI will never rise.

Her time was up. The [Lady] sniffled, but Maviola strode away. Maybebut just as well. Just as well. Because Ryoka Griffinwas a fool with a heart. The worst kind. No one had said she was wrong to want to help, did she? Just

Maviola El strode into The Wandering Inn as the last visitor arrived. She heard Liskas tired refrain.

Hello. Welcome to The Wandering Inn. Read this signoh. Its you. Nevermind.

The [Lady Firestarter] walked forwards and saw nudity. Saliss of Lights cavorted into the inn after her.

Maviola! Just the Human I wanted to see. Tried my other potion?

No! And Im not in the mood for this, Drake.

Theres always time for fun, Maviola. Besidesis Erin here? I just wanted a word. Then Im off.

To where? To dance on the gates again? Maviola made a noise of disgust. She saw Liska yawning and the glowing yellow stone for Pallass.

No one had told the Gnoll not to check Pallass, although Erins aura kept almost everyone out. So Saliss bounded into the inn. Liska was just reaching for the stone to change the door when it opened.

Where is he? Ill murder him! Ill

Someone else blew past Liska. Maviola blinked.

Here came trouble. Here came drama. Saliss was making a beeline for Erin, who was lecturing everyone about chess patterns. Hed nearly reached her when the second person from Pallass came through.

He was not on Erins good-list. But such was the level and fury of this individual that hed breached her aura.

Xif the [Alchemist] charged after Saliss. A white-faced Octavia, sitting and waiting for Erin, saw the [Alchemist] holding something in his furry paw.

He might be an older Gnollfrom Pallass. But some things about [Alchemists] held true. The Gnoll had a club. When [Alchemists] got mad, they sorted it out.

Saliss, you lizard! You wretch! You stole my work!

Xif! I thought you couldnt go through!

Saliss whirled. People in the inn turned to stare. A naked Drake and an old Gnoll with a club was eye-catching. Xif swung at Saliss with wild abandon!

You cant do this!

Hold on, Xif. I think were under the wrong impression here. Just give me five minutes and Ill

Saliss backed up, dodging Xif easily. The Gnoll was howling, panting. Hed chased Saliss across the city.

Whats going on? Hey! Youre not supposed to be in here!

Erin shot to her feet. Marshal Altestiel rose. He held up a hand and his followers held themselves back.

It was my work! You cant just claim credit! Id already made it! Youyou

Someone stop him! Before Saliss hurts him!

Ishkr, Menolit, and Wilovan all grabbed Xif. They gently pulled the older [Alchemist] back. Saliss was grinning at Xifs clear fury.

Whats this about, Saliss?

Ohjust making a stopover. Look, Erinshut up, Xif!

No! Its not fair!

The [Alchemist] struggled weakly. Erin turned to Xif.

Whats the problem?

Oteslia! The [Strategists] of the Titan! They have that sick Selphid!

Everyone blinked. That was old news! But it was still something theyd all seen. Erin blinked.

Yeahso?

They needed a cure for blowfish poison! And I made it! They sent to Pallass for the best and Saliss refused, so Ive been supplying them with the antitoxin agent for the last weeks! But then Saliss came by

Xif. Xif, lets just shut up and

The Named Adventurer tried, but Xif was too angry. He bellowed the rest.

He walked into the Merchants Guild yesterday and said he was making the blowfish antidote! Bought up all the ingredients on the pretexthes not making the antitoxin! Its my work! Hes just lying to make himself look good!

I never said you werent

Hah! Youve been pretending to! Why are you buying mithril dust if its not to make an antidote of some kind? Everyones saying Saliss is helping the Selphid in Oteslia. Youyou

Xifs mouth stopped running as his exhaustion caught up with him. Also, his mind. The inndeveloped a silence.

Not everywhere. Some people were muttering, shaking their heads, taking bets on whether Xif clocked Saliss. But it was people in the know who looked up.

Mithril dust.

Octavia breathed. Saliss was grinning widely, and murderously at Xif. The Gnoll [Alchemist]s jaw worked.

Youd only need

Erin Solstice saw Maviola Els eyes widen. She sensedErin looked around. Three? She noticed too late.

Fierre bit her lip so hard her teeth nearly met. Mithril dust. That was one of the ingredients forit was so rare you only needed it for a few things. So the Guild could watch whoever bought it.

They had been. Butit had never occurred to them that the enemy of Tyrion Veltras might

Oh no.

She looked about. And there she sat. Ryoka Griffins head rose.

II think Ive made a mistake. Illjust be going. Saliss. Ahem. Sorry for the misunderstanding.

Xif began to back up. Saliss gave him a wide, happy smile.

Im going to burn your shop down for real this time, Xif. Promise. WellI suppose the cats out of the bag. Who does that, anyways?

He spread his arms wide. His claws open. He turned

I suppose I should come clean, Erin.

She looked up at him. The [Alchemist], Saliss, looked at her kindly.

Saliss?

He seemed so sad. And I was bored. Sometimes

The Drake looked at her sincerely. Then he bowed.

No, he folded up in slow motion. A dagger stood out in his clawshed caught it at the last moment. The [Alchemist]s hands blurred.

Something flickered past Erins face. A thin stream ofan [Assassin] collapsed. Octavia stared at the Drake screaming, clutching at his face as the acid burned.

Another leaptbut the second jet of acid struck him across the chest and he screamed. The first was already dead, smoking. The third [Assassin] ran for the door, pushing past Liska.

And here we go. Excuse me, Erin.

Saliss of Lights walked for the door. The [Assassin] was fumbling for the stone. He whirledSaliss blew more acid across his face.

A solution to 90% of my problems.

He laughed. Liska backed away from him, eyes wide. Saliss adjusted the dial. And walked into Invrisil.

Drama. A frozen inn. Badarrow was aiming his bow at the strange Drakes back. Numbtongue was tense in his seat.

Whatwhat was

Xif stared in horror at the dead [Assassins]. But someone moved in the silence.

Nostop

Fierre was too slow, for once. Ryoka tore out of her grasp. She followed the Drake.

Through the door. Into the street. The Drake had left a hole in the crowd. He was walking

The loitering pedestrians. The casual gangs. They turned, appraising the sudden shouting. The crowd. They saw the naked Drake coming at them. Sauntering down the street.

They were not prepared for Saliss of Lights. He had two jars in his hand.

Come on! Try it! I bathe in acid! No, really, I do. Keeps the scales polished.

The [Alchemist] was shouting. The [Assassins] hesitated.

Three tried it. Saliss hit them with acid so fast they were screamingthen still, smoking forms on the street. He walked on.

Straight into the Runners Guild. The [Receptionist] stared as the Drake paused to do a victory dance.

Hey. Im Saliss. Look, I know this isnt common. Buthere.

He handed her a vial. The [Receptionist] stared at it. At him. Saliss dangled it, then put the clear liquid on the receptionists desk.

W-wh-wh

What is that? But she didnt need an answer. She knew. They all knew. Runners, Couriers, [Assassins], and more, oh my. Saliss of Lights turned. And on his smileRyoka Griffin stopped, panting.

I believe that was one cure for Lord Tyrion Veltras. Delivered! Just looking for a good Runner to bring it.

Saliss leaned on the counter. He looked around, still holding the acid. Waiting.

So? Any takers?

Authors Note: I still didnt get quite where I wanted to. But this is a good stopping place. I thinkwell, well see if next chapter encompasses it all. If not, you know, this is a web serial.

And this is short-er than last chapter! By two thousand words, true, which is still longer than average. But I made myself a promise and I did it!

Funny story. I thought it was Friday, which goes to show how Ive lost track of unimportant things. The Unus Annus channel is ending, hence me sharing that. If you havent heard of itits too late.

Memento Mori. A good theme for this chapter. And the next one. So it begins and ends. I think you know what might happen next. Or do you?

Have a good night and see you next time!

Tonights art comes to you from ArtsyNada, who has done one last comic about how half-Elves speak to beavers! Also, Scap has commissioned two art pieces of Numbtongue and Erin! Last and certainly not least, LeChat has created some amazing work and Enyavar has colored some of them! Credit where credit is duetake a look and leave praise!

Beaverspeak by /illudanajohns

Numbtongue by mpart1919, commissioned by Scap!

Erin by platinumft, commissioned by Scap!

Flying Gnolls, Peslas, Knives, Zel Shivertail and more by /demoniccriminal

Stash with all the TWI related art:https://sta.sh/222s6jxhlt0