The Wandering Inn

Book 8: Chapter 63: K

Today.

They saw a vision of the future. Every army said it, and every nation thought it. When [Historians] dipped their quills in ink to write of the past, glorified or sardonically, they still drew a line between then and the present.

No matter how good your armies were, how inspiring your leadersthat was then. We are the armies of the modern era, who shall not be surpassed. We have built upon the bones of the fallen and learned all their mistakes.

Or rather, that was what Earths soldiers and warriors and thinkers believed. Unlike other worlds, they had never gone back. Realized they had lost an arms race against their ancient ancestors.

This was because Earth had experienced the fall of a civilization, like Rome. It had not seen the firmament break, gone through true armageddon where the survivors searched for pieces and found only dust. The Humans currently on top of Earth had suffered no giant cataclysm.

Yet.

However, even in this world, armies believed they were the greatest of their time. That they had, if not the greatest soldiers ever conceived, something. Superlative [Archers]. Tactics or discipline beyond others.

What a strange feeling it must be. For both children of Earth and [Soldiers] to look up and realize they were now the past.

They flew through the sky like mocking bullseyes. Armor painted so vividly, even beautifully, in monochrome colors that they seemed to call out for targets. Yet armoredenchanted, beyond the means of most to even hit. Only an enchanted arrow from a skilled archer could even bother them.

Slings? Pikes? Swords and armor? [Knights] riding around on horseback looked up at fire from the skies. Soldiers of the future, flying in suits of powerful armor.

The nightmare of two worlds, the future, flying overhead of the past with contempt for all who had come this far. Chasing down the [Knights] who looked up in their plate armor at their replacement.

That was the terror for anyone who wanted the world to stay the way it was. For people who understood that this would changefar too much. Far too swiftly.

For now, it was one battlefield, and one manone half-Elf held the reins of power. Eldavin, the Archmage of Memory. However, he had made one mistake:

He had left Wistram. And the plotters who had no counter for him took that moment. Elsewhere in the world, armies were fighting with conventional arms and weapons. By the time he came for themthey would be ready. But for that, they needed their Archmage. Time was running out; Reim was under attack.

The siege was entering its ninth day.

Everyone said war was hot, which had always confused him. It might be true of other places, but Chandrar? Chandrar was cold on those nights. So cold you could freeze to your cloth in the open.

It was hot by day, but who would fight under the glaring sun? A true battle, in the young [Soldier]s mind, was most economically fought under the moonlight, perhaps in some grand surprise attack. Under the clear skies, with ample moonlight? You could well take the enemy off-guard and have enough light to see by.

That was the kind of naive thinking of someone who had never seen a war. By the time his unit of Basts 14th was rotated into the front, he had seen [Soldiers] marching, running under the full heat of the sun. The glare of armor was baked into his eyes, and even standing in formation was hot. Some people collapsed from the heat of it, despite the [Line Captain]s shouting or blows.

Heat had killed over three hundred, despite the water rations. Justheat. However, the [Soldiers] fought until they dropped. They had to; they were pressed forwards by their fellow [Soldiers]. An endless wave of Hemp-caste [Soldiers] who followed regiments of Cotton and Silk leaders into battle.

This was Nerrhavias endless horde. It terrified the young Hemp-[Soldier] and exhilarated him. The roar was deafening as he turned his head and saw a line of bodies that stretched thousands of feet in every direction. Not a single mass like a swarming anthill; they were neatly separated into divisions, regiments, which were arrayed by type and level.

Waiting. Every few seconds, something would break through the distant roar ahead of him. That city, engulfed in motion across the walls. Figures climbing, fallingand the blood. You could see it, even miles away. The flash as someone raised a sword and brought it down on a helmet.

The young man stared at the person on the walls. A Human? A young woman? One of the defenders of Reim.

Capital of the King of Destruction. The last bastion of this war. He shivered, despite himself.

The jagged crown of towers rose around the walls and the city proper. There were ladders everywhere; you could barely see the wall for the ladders. A group began falling as someone kicked them down, and another set collapsed into flames.

Fire.

Someone murmured hoarsely, and the Hemp-[Soldiers] shuddered. They saw figures waving their arms, rolling on the ground, fleeing the fire as a [Mage] threw down a [Fireball]. That was what the young man feared most. Death by fire. He could survive losing an arm or a leg so long as he didnt bleed out. But fire?

The terrifying thing was, he never heard them, even as [Soldiers] went up like distant candles, burning out, collapsing. The air was shaking from so many voiceshe never heard them.

Basts 11th and Phloems 2nd!

The [Soldier] jumped. He almost started forward, but that wasnt his regiment. Two groups advanced towards the retreating [Soldiers] fleeing the burning section, ladders ready to go. Infantry, like him, without distinct levels or gear, and a group of mixed slings and archers.

Thousands. Each division was two thousand strong. So four thousand went to take the wall. Compared to the number of [Soldiers] on it, it seemed they should overrun the city in a second.

But it was so vast, and that broken crownthe young mans name was Eribis. He looked up at it.

They were not black towers, fit for some villain. They were grey and partly beige, but with dirt and dust more than anything. They were evenly spaced out around Reim, eight towersor rather, six.

Two were broken, like the tines had been snapped off a crown. Yet the remaining six were the reasons why Nerrhavias great army was pulled back so far. Even as Eribis watcheda tower lit up.

Inc

The rest of his [Line Captain]s scream was drowned out. Eribis threw up his hands and felt something punch his armor. He stumbled, ran into someone, and the blinding flash was replaced by

Eribis gazed out and the battlefield was silent for one second. He saw one of the divisions marching on Reims walls, those glorious armored figures, had been replaced by a huge crater of glass and smoke. The figures scattered around it were lying still. Some got up, stumbling around dizzily in circles. Eribis saw someone sitting, picking up their helmet, shaking their head.

Basts 14th!

The roar came for him. The dizzy [Soldier] felt the Hemp-soldiers jerk into sudden motion. They looked at each other, uncertain, but the [Line Captain] heard the order from the distant command tents and roared.

[Obey Me: Forward March]! [Get in Formation]!

Simple, low-level Skills, but they worked. Eribis felt himself moving forwards, and realized he was out of place. Like someone had drawn a rulerBasts 14th suddenly began moving in orderly rows, not a disordered mass.

Straight at the walls. Eribis began to sweat. He realized what they meant when they said war was hot. It wasnt just the heat of the sun, or the weather. He felt like he was burning up. His heart was in overdrive, and he longed to have someone stitch it up, make it bigger, cool him down.

It was too hot. Eribis heard the other Hemp soldiers gasping around him. One of theman older [Veteran] who didnt make the cutoff for a better regimentwas muttering.

The King of Destruction falls. Heroes. Well be heroes

Eribis listened, along with everyone around him. That was what the [Great General] had proclaimed on the eve of the first attack. This was the end of the King of Destruction. Eribis felt the moment in the air. Yethe looked up.

Eight days, and they hadnt even breached the walls.

Theyd tried. There were four spots where the walls had caved in when magical artillery and spells had blasted holes through, but the damned towers had destroyed the siege towers, even countered the [Mages]. And thenwhen theyd put two dozen holes in the walls the first time, the King of Destruction had used his Skill. The walls had risen, the gaps mended.

Higher. Thicker.

Nowthey loomed forty feet tall. Even so, Nerrhavias Fallen had countered that. Theyd brought fifty-foot ladders. The siege towers kept being destroyed before they could roll towards the walls, but Reim couldnt stop ladders from every direction.

Eribis saw Reim was surrounded as Basts 14th marched. They jogged, looking up at the towers, moving faster despite their armor and exhaustion from standing tense so long. Better to get to the walls than face annihilation like that.

The towers did not glow. And Eribis looked at the walls and saw how each division was throwing itself up the ladders. Entire groups of [Archers] were skirmishing with the walls, and [Mages] were throwing spells up, rotating out once theyd taken too many casualties.

But the infantry kept coming. Multiple attackers for every defender on the wall, and even as Eribis watched, he saw a knot of [Soldiers]enemy soldiers, flesh [Soldiers]scream and break apart as a bolt of lightning struck them. Shouting Hemp-warriors took the walls, and Eribis stared at them.

Well win. Nerrhavia had put three vast armies into one. This was a force to wipe Reim out and end this battle. Hed receive his victors allotment, and hed say he was there. Hed helped claim the King of Destructions head. He might even be promoted to Cotton or Silk; after great victories, entire divisions had received that honor if they were the ones who took the city

Ladders up! Ladders up!

The [Line Captain] snapped him out of his daydream. Eribis turned and saw the ladders rising as dozens of Hemp-soldiers dragged them up. He stared upwards and, at last, he made out the faces of the soldiers on the walls.

They had bows, arrows; some even threw stones. But the majority of them had spears, swords, and axes and hacked at the ladders, trying to force them back. One splintered even as Eribis watched, but the first line of [Soldiers] were climbing up despite the danger, and a shower of arrows made the defenders take cover.

Up! Up! Dont stop climbing! Take that wall and hold it until reinforcements get up! Go, go, g

Then he was climbing. Eribis didnt even think. He just realized he was climbing the wooden struts of the ladder, panting, arms shaking.

No, no. Dead gods. Not me! Hed thought he might be lucky and theyd take the city before Basts 14th even got to the fighting. It had happened twice before. He was a Level 8 [Soldier], but hed gotten all 8 levels just by enlisting and training and marching for a few months. Conscriptedpartly. He had a choice and hed chosen

He wasnt ready. The city loomed above him, and that citadel where the King of Destruction lay rose as his head cleared the walls. For a second, Eribis saw it. A faded, crumbling palace, but it made his blood chill and skin grow cold.

The legend of Chandrar had come from here. And now

Hold them off! Reinforcements! R

Eribis head snapped up. He reached for his gladius, panicking, and dropped his shield. The young man saw it flash past him and hit the ground, causing the [Line Captain] to jump back.

He tumbled over the battlements and hit the ground. He was dead! He was

Up, Eribis! You idiot!

Someone grabbed him and heaved him up. He saw the [Veteran], a mad glint in her eyes, laughing. She had blood on her sword, and the Hemp-boy realized

Theyd taken this section of the walls. He looked around and gasped. All he saw were dead bodies. Torn flesh

Glowing arrows? They stood out in a blank mans throat, as his eyes stared deadly at Eribis. The Hemp [Soldier] realized theyd just been bombarded by a spell.

[Scintillating Arrows]! Shields up! Shields up!

They came from behind Eribis as he and the [Veteran] ducked. A rain of arrows that showered the sporadic Humans, enemy Stitch-folk, even a Garuda.

Up! Up! Hold the walls!

More Hemp [Soldiers] were climbing over the walls. One half-landed, stomping on Eribis leg. He rolled away, crying out, making way for the others. Scrambling to his feet, Eribis saw the city below, houses just as crumbling, a paved street as bad as any cobbled or dirt one because it was so worn and yet to be repaired.

Yet, a glorious city. Andhe wavered as he saw racing figures headed for the stairs.

To the breach! Alert Lord Venith! Hold them off!

[Soldiers]. Reims reinforcements were coming, and Eribis saw a clear demarcation in the city. Civilians, actual children, women and men, were staring up at him with fear and hostility. Reims people. But the [Soldiers] were already fighting with the Hemp of Basts 14th, trying to push them back or hold them in place.

Yet every second, a dozen [Soldiers] came up the ladders. Eribis laughed as he saw they had taken a spot on the walls! A breach! And if they held this section

Tussars 2nd. Coming up the ladders! Make way, you ill-wrought scum! Take the gates and let the chariots through!

A roar from behind Eribis made him flinch. He turned and saw a glowing helmet rise from the very same ladder hed been climbing. A beautiful face. A Silk [Warrior] threw himself over the ladder as one of the very best of Nerrhavias army took over the assault.

Tussars 2nd? Then were storming the city!

One of Eribis friends breathed. The Silk [Warrior] ignored him and shoutedhe shoved at Eribis, snarling.

Forwards and fight, you slack-threaded fools!

Hemp obeyed, and Eribis turnedbut the press on the walls was so tight he couldnt actually reach the fighting, two dozen paces away though it was. He saw Hemp warriors clashing with desperate men and women who were stabbing into their armor and flesh, yet the Hemp advanced without fear. Someone tried to ram a steel spear through one [Soldier], and it actually failed to penetrate their thick cloth skin!

The Silk were right behind the Hemp, brandishing enchanted blades, ready to fight.

Tussar. Unlike Bast and Phloem, named after the cheap components of thread and cloth, Tussar were named after types of Silk. Enchanted gear. The veterans had told Eribis that if he ran into the dead of any Silk-division to steal their armor or swords because one piece would be worth more than hed ever make.

The gates! Forget the walls and open the gates!

The first Silk-warrior was howling in Eribis ears. The young man turned and saw a movement across the flat ground.

Chariots. Chariots and horses, a wave of them storming forwards, ignoring the danger of the towers. They had held back for eight days, but now they sensed the opening. Once the gates fell, theyd storm into the city.

Yet there were still so many [Soldiers] below. A wave was positioned just below the walls, waiting for the gates to open. Grim faces staring up at Eribis. He met someones eyes and felt a shock. Andthe civilians were watching. Some were armed with kitchen knives, or even hoes. Would they have to fight them? Butcher them?

No, Silk will do that. Hemp had bled and formed a breach; as ever, Silk and Cotton would go ahead of them. Even so, Eribis yearned to see the glorious chariots of Nerrhavias Fallen storm through the streets, deploying enchanted blades, an unstoppable impact of force, crewed by deadly [Charioteers] throwing javelins and sending the best warriors into the fighting. In the streets, theyd crash through any press of bodies, although it would fall to infantry to take the narrow alleyways.

But this was the gap into which Reims fall began. Eribis shouted, feeling a wild excitement in his veins as he pressed forwards. He heard more people taking it up.

The gates! The gates!

Horses! Horse!

Horse? The cry was half-taken up, but then it changed into a stranger pitch.

Horse!

Eribis saw the Silk-warrior turn from watching the gathering riders as well. Both he and the man glanced at each other, for one second of simultaneous confusion, and then their heads turned. The young man looked across the wall, and the Silk-warrior of Tussars 2nd murmured.

But were on a wall.

Eribis agreed with a nod. Yet still. He saw someone riding across the battlements towards them. A man on horseback, ignoring the arrows, galloping past other soldiers, a spear raised over his head in two arms.

AHuman? Eribis saw the rider was mounted on a mare, not even a stallion, bareback. He wore ill-fitting leather armor, and Eribis saw hair white and wispy behind an iron helmet. He was an old man, laughing and charging the [Soldiers]. Behind him came charging [Soldiers], but the forces of Nerrhavias Fallen locked on the improbable rider, who had somehow climbed the stairs on horseback.

Coming straight at them. ThenEribis heard a scream from behind him. He took his eyes off the charging [Rider]who was only one manand looked over his shoulder.

Officer assault! Itsits the [General]the

A finger pointed. The [Soldiers] whirled, and the Silk shouted in excitement. Eribis turned and saw a knot of warriors pressing down the walls from the other end. He looked up and didnt realize who he was seeing, at first.

All he saw was a helmet, a set figure holding a shield, pointing ahead with his sword in the middle of the fighting. Then the Silk-warrior shouted.

Venith Crusland! Take his head! Command has promised a hundred thousand gold to the warrior who does!

A hundredEribis head swam with the thought, but he looked at that figure. Venith Crusland, one of the vassals of the King of Destruction. His armor was red with blood, and suddenly he seemed bigger.

Bigger. The Hemp and Silk charged the new warriors, motivated by the gold and prospect of fighting him. But then Eribis saw Venith shoulder aside the warriors in front of him. He lowered his sword, and it began to glow. The [Lord] angled his sword like a spear and charged.

Skill! Skill! Back up! Back

The press of bodies turned to confusion as the Silk warriors saw the danger and tried to back up, but ran into the others. One even tried to dodge and went over the battlements, screaming. The rest aimed their blades at Venith Crusland.

The [Lord]s form grew. He seemed to turn into a man half as large again, armored head to toe, for a second. Eribis saw a giant hit the first rank of warriors, spearing a surprised Silk [Warrior] through the stomach. And he kept going. His other arm, holding his shield, rose and tossed three figures back over the ladder.

One of the ladders snapped as a figure hit it and sent a dozen screaming [Soldiers] down with it. Veniths charge stopped as he literally rammed corpses into the others. The warriors stared up at him as he seemed to shrinkbut that sword rose and beheaded a snarling [Captain] before he could lunge. Then it was plunging downwards, and Reims soldiers followed him into battle.

Howling. Eribis was screaming, but he looked into the faces of Reims soldiers, and his shout faltered. He felt like he was staring at a wild beast armed with a blade, who threw another [Soldier] off the walls before wildly slashing down anothers front. Wildly, as fast as a blink, but with all the experience Eribis lacked. Ducking a blade, coming up, spearing another figure below the gorget of armor through the neck. And that was one [Soldier].

The Hemp and Silk turned to face the advance of Venith Crusland and his personal guard. Eribis was setting himself when he heard a scream, felt an impact run through the people around him. He looked around and upand there it was.

A horse. That old man had somehow closed the gap. But all the [Soldiers]? The [Veteran] whod hauled Eribis up? Where?

Move!

A hand threw Eribis sideways. The young man stumbled, gladius swinging wildly, but the Silk warrior charged the rider. He aimed his curved sword at the mares head, and Eribis saw a spear explode through the Silk warriors face. It was so fast he saw the afterimage of the Skill as the old warrior whirled his spear.

Forwards! Run, you traitorous pieces of cloth! Twice we broke your armies! Then and now!

The [Rider] was howling. His eyes looked like they were glowing as his spear flashed down again. Eribis cowered back and it saved his life. The old man whirled his spear.

[Scythe of the Slaughter]! Die.

Blood spattered Eribis face, and he screamed as he saw bodies collapse. The old man rode past him, howling, and struck down a ladder as he passed by. Venith Crusland was advancing on the other side. The old veteranperhaps one of the King of Destructions original soldiers himselframmed forwards. He couched his spear like a lance and ran two figures through with it.

An ancient, enchanted blade. So old that the glitter seemed faded. Deadly as could be. He turned, grinning, and the young man realized hed been spotted.

There was one Hemp [Soldier] left on the walls still breathing. Eribis realized it was him and all the blood ran from his face. He turned and ran, dropping his gladius, screaming, fumbling to pick it up, and the [Rider] turned. The old man raised his spear, riding towards him

And an arrow went through his back. Eribis, hands raised, saw the old man jerk. Another arrow struck him, and his look of bloody triumph turned melancholy. He grabbed at the second arrow, just under his armpit, and turned.

Lord V

A third arrow hit him. Then a fourth, a fiftha shower of arrows rained down around him, and the mare went down without a sound.

[Archers]. The old man was still alive, somehow. He stared up, no longer breathing, but still alive.

Waiting. Eribis saw a man walk forwards. Bend down.

Venith Crusland knelt, grabbing the old [Rider]s hand. He stared down into the eyes, bent his head as the old man smiled and whispered. Eribis saw the [Lord]s grip tightenand those eyes close.

The spear slipped from a limp hand. Eribis saw Veniths helmeted head bow. Then

The [Lord]s head rose. He looked straight at the boy, and the [Soldier] waved his gladius, shaking.

Hemp [Soldiers] were coming up the walls, listening to the screaming [Line Captain]. They hadnt seen what had happened above. They landed around Eribis, and saw the armored warrior pick up the spear and hand it to one of the warriors behind him. He raised his sword and shield and advanced. Eribis was shaking. Then he looked over his shoulder and saw a squad of warriors charging at him. Screaming the King of Destructions name.

One raised a mace as they came. Eribis saw the motion and raised his sword, hesitating. Flinching. Blocking

The mace bashed his sword into his face. Then it struck him. The gap disappeared, and the ladders fell back. Basts 14th retreated after taking casualties.

Reim held out another hour. But the dead [Terror Rider] never came back. Nor did any of the fallen. Still, for every one of the defenders who fellthey were replaced.

For now.

This was the moment when levels lost their meaning. Not because they were useless. On the contrary. They lost their meaning because it was war.

Levels jumped. People gained a dozen levels and died. [Blademasters] died, blinking, staring at [Greenhorn Recruits] who stabbed over their corpses, not knowing who they killed.

They were bleeding great warriors. She saw it.

Lady Maresar stood on a platform, loosing arrows from behind barriers. She shot a high-level warrior of some kind through the face. She had seen that boy die. She had loosed three arrows, but let Venith hold the line.

She hadnt been able to save that old man. She didnt know his name, but she thought she had known his unit of old.

Terrifying riders who charged alone into masses of infantry like that and wiped them out with area-of-attack Skills. A task for men and women who didnt fear death.

Someone had fought in the first armies, and lived through Flos slumber. Had grown old enough to have white hair and not be called to the front. Then they took a mare, their spear

And died on these walls. Maresar didnt question whyshe just charted his life like that and reached for another arrow. That was how it worked.

The [Bandit Lord] aimed an arrow, loosed it. She didnt know what kind it was until it left her quiver.

Unenchanted. It slammed into an armored chest, and a figure staggered. Some kind of heavy-armored warrior who was cutting down too many people. He turned, saw her, and raised his shield. With his other arm, he made a taunting gesture.

What class? Did it matter? He had to die. [Legionary]? [Armored Officer]? [Immortal]? [Gladiator]?

Maresar reached for an arrow, realized her quiver was empty, and looked around. She saw a bundle of arrows lying at her feet, reached down

Volley incoming!

The [Bandit Lord] threw herself down, smacking into the wood of the platform. She felt a heavy impact on her back, but her enchanted armor saved her.

Not so for one of the [Markswomen] in her group. Maresar rose and looked into the dead eyes of a Level 34 [Markswoman]. Another old woman who could barely draw the arrow to her chest but hit every target.

They died. YetMaresar saw someone roll over the woman. Shake her. Then, amidst tears, a wordless crya young man with blood in his dark hair grabbed her bow. Did he know her? Was he a grandson?

The [Bandit Lord] read his class. Level 12 [Hunter]. He wasnt even one of the dedicated [Archers], but he had been running them arrows. He snatched up the old womans bow, lifted it, and drew an arrow. He loosed itand Maresar whirled.

She saw, far beyond the walls, one of the distant [Longbow Archers] crumple. An arrow through the eye.

Maresars head turned back and saw a Level 14 [Hunter] loose another arrow. Someone else went down, an arrow through their throat.

Back up! Back up and stop shooting!

One of the other [Archers] hadnt seen the arrows land and thought the boy had gone mad with grief, which he had. Maresar raised her hand.

Take her place. Get another runner. Back in position!

And like that, a boy found out he had a talent for war. When he sleptand he would soonhe would hear those levels and be stronger. Maresar kept her eyes on his face, counting. At Level 20. Or

She turned. That armored figure was smashing his way forward, roaring, and she could see no weak points.

Lady Maresar! That warrior

I see it. Get me an enchanted arrow.

A figure ran for the stash but they were out. Maresar cursed. She looked around for arrows fired at themand her hand went to her side.

She had one arrow left. The tip was glittering with a beautiful, flawed metal. A jagged shard of Naq-Alrama steel.

Retrieved from Clan Tannousins failure. Maresar looked at it, the enemy warrior. Not that one.

Not yet. Another arrow. She hunted around. Then saw something which had been tossed at them, sticking out of the ground. From some volley? A throw from the walls? She grabbed it, lifted the javelin up, and checked the armored warrior.

[I Can Shoot That].

Maresar didnt look at what she was holding. She nocked the arrow, felt the weight of it on the enchanted bowstring. Heavyit was going to dropshe aimed up, above the helmet.

The armored warrior looked up, spotted the javelin coming towards his face, and blocked it. It still knocked him stumbling back towards the wall. His head tilted up, and Maresar shot him through that sliver of his throat. She lowered her bow, arm burning, and searched for Venith.

He wasnt dead. So Maresar breathed in, checked herself, and reached for another arrow. How much longer until the walls fell? Until

She wondered where Calac was. Maresar grinned. If this were any other battle, if she didnt have himher eyes locked on Venith

Shed run. Run and live, but how was she supposed to run if he wouldnt? If everything that mattered was here

Ah, no wonder shed stopped leveling in [Bandit Lord]. Maresar looked up.

And Calac was in Wistram. Wonderful. She smiled as she reached for another arrow. The army kept climbing, ten thousand targets, a hopeless battle. Maresar grinned as she shot another arrow, not for the love of blood or anger or joy. Just relief. Venith was still standing. Calac was in Wistram.

She had nothing to fear.

Three Days Ago.

Archmage Viltach was a man who took baths. As opposed to a man who took showers, which was largely what you could split most of the known world into. Bathsyes, steam baths and saunas and whatnot were variationsor showers.

There were also the degenerate monsters who took neither and just walked around accumulating and spreading filth, or the even more deranged [Mages] who cast [Cleanse] on themselves every day.

Viltach, however, was in a subset of bathing people who employed various mixtures to improve bathing. Herbal additives, oils, and bubbles.

Oh, lots of bubbles. Was it childish to create a huge pool of hot water you could jump into with suds so high theyd hide you from the world?

Yes. But his children loved it, which proved the point, and Viltach had learned the romantic and relationship qualities of a bath. Yes, you could in theory do that in a shower, but a shower was always rushing things.

He missed his children. Some of them missed him. It was about time for another visit. But the Archmage was stressed, busy with a war that Eldavin had begunthe situation with Amerys

And his one moment of solace besides sitting at his crafting station was ruined three minutes into his bath. The Archmage stomped out of his rooms as the alarm-spell grew louder and louder.

Who is making that racket? No one should be able to manipulate the door-alarms but me.

Or an Archmage. If this was some j

Viltach stopped. He looked up, went for a wand, realized he was in his hastily thrown-on, unenchanted robes, and realized this was the moment he died. It was, of course, never how you expected it.

The looming figures crushing hand of porcelain hovered above his face. A gleaming, perfect mask of sculpted ceramics. A Golem. This was it. They were going to kill him. This was

Viltach realized it was not his death a moment later, and the instinctive fear turned to relieved anger.

What are you doing?

The Golem was no serving Golem. Nor was it Cognita, but for a second the pale white of the light blue porcelain had made him think

But it was a male Golem, with an impressive physique under ornate, sculpted clothes. No serving Golem, this. They tended to have some element of puppet-qualities, a deliberate lack of details. This Golem?

This Golem had a sword on its back. It was one of the protector Golems. Viltach never saw it roaming about.

Whwhat is this about? Who sent you?

The Protector-class Golem looked at Viltach. The Archmage realized it couldnt speak and was looking around when he was disabused of that notion. The Golems mouth opened, revealing a disconcertingly marble, uncarved opening. A puppets mouth, and the voice was equally unsophisticated. Yet it did speak.

A Golem is destroyed. An intruder is in Wistram.

Viltach stared up at it. The Protector-class Golem waited as the Archmages mouth moved.

Who? What? Did you catch it?

The Protector-class Golem stared at him. It repeated itself.

A Golem is destroyed. An intruder is in Wistram.

Viltach hesitated.

Yes, but where? Who? How many? Whats the context?

The Protector-class Golem stared at him, and the Archmage realizedwith Cognita gone? Hed opened a bottle of wine to celebrate that monsters absence. Now, he began to wonder if her absence was a bad sign.

An intruder is in Wistram. Viltach closed his eyes.

It had begun.

There is a reason my King sent no great army to take Wistram. Or even a smaller group. He could not afford to send so many. Also? Unless he had his armies from before his slumber, there is no guarantee we could triumph. I knew thisbut I was sure the moment I began my surveillance and study of the academy. There is a Golem buried at the base of the academy. Under water. It could wipe out a standard, unenchanted warship on its own. It is so vast it would be called half-Giant class.

So

As large as Zamea.

D-does that imply theres a Giant class? Or bigger?

Yes. But that Golem was made by the greatest Archmage in the field at the time. And it is not alone. There are more, buried there. I cannot kill them. I do not need to. Tell me about the layout of Amerys prison again.

Gazi Pathseeker looked at Calac and Treys map. She had a map of her own. She sat in Treys room, and he remembered why he had not called for her instantly.

It was simple. Trey respected Gazi. He liked her. He felt very conflicted about her, but he saw her good qualities that she liked to hide behind her scary mask and reputation.

However, because he knew her, he also knew that she was terrifying. Trey had convinced Calac not to call on her at first because it was risky, because she might be noticed and then the game would be up and theyd be really out of time. However, Calac had agreed because Trey thought he understood the same thing he did.

When Gazi moved, people would die. And Wistrams [Mages] didnt deserve that, by and large. He had missed her, though. She was intelligent, scary

And, currently, on her third pie. The Gazer licked her fingers; she hadnt taken off her gauntlets, but she reached for another bowl of food.

This is good. Earth food?

Um. Yes. Do you want more?

One of her five eyes swiveled towards him. Another fixed his bag of holding with a pointed look.

Yes. What are those round things with multiple components?

H-hamburgers? Its just an Earth food.

I will eat them.

Trey looked at Calac. The young man had heard rumors of Gazi, as had Trey, but neither of them quite remembered Gazi the Omniscient also being known as Gazi the World Champion Food Eater.

However, the half-Gazer woman was chomping down food as fast as she could while she stared at their map and hers. Trey unpacked the hamburgers, grateful Wistrams [Mages] didnt blink twice at you stealing food from the buffet line.

Are you hungry, Lady Gazi?

Calac ventured. Gazi stared at him, and the young man quailed a bit before that huge eye. Everyone did. You thought youd been stared at hard by someone before? Try an eye half the size of your face staring at you without blinking.

I have been eating food underwater for over a month. Raw fish. In the ocean. Preserved rations. Underwater. What is that?

A puff pastry?

What is that substance inside it?

Another thing about Gazishe saw everything. Noticed everything. However, she didnt understand everything, so she was actually very cautious and demanded to know what whipped cream was before she had one of the dough treats filled with sugar that Telim loved so much.

Trey watched Gazi. Calac watched Gazi with as close to hero worship as Trey had ever seen.

Minizi? She peeked around Gazi from behind Treys bed. One of Gazis eyes was rolled up in her head, watching the Golem.

You made a Lifesand Golem after me.

I, uhuhyes? I was bored and I made a lot but sheMinizistuck.

Trey turned beet red as Gazi regarded him. The Gazer smiled, peeling apart the hamburger to inspect each section.

I see. What is thiswhite stuff? I have never seen it before.

Um. Mayonnaise. Egg yolks and oil and such.

Hm.

That was all she said. The Gazer licked the mayonnaise experimentally and smacked her lips. Which was such a normal thing to do, it didnt fit Gazi Pathseeker.

Trey had often thought this privately, but even more now that he had been to Wistram and seen every species represented save for the myriad of Drowned Folk, Gnolls, and Fraerlings in person.

Of the known, civilized races of this worldGazers were the most alien. He did not think this just because he had seen Actelios Salash and the parallels.

There was something different about Gazers. A lack of a nose, for one thing. The only species who had an equivalent were Lizardfolk and Drakes, but they had lizard-like nose holes and that distinctive reptilian cast to their face. Or draconic, if you didnt want to make the Drakes mad.

Garuda also lacked noses, but they had beaks, which were arguably the same thing. Minotaurs?

No, that was it. Each species was patterned after some ancient ancestor. Many humanoids echoed monkeys. Drakes and Lizardfolk, reptiles. Garuda? Birds. Minotaurscows.

What were Gazers made in shape of? Where did they come from?

Such an alien woman, and she was the only known Gazer who had served Reim in the spotlight. One of her kind, half-Gazer, and the rest of her species in Baleros. Yetshe was here, and Trey was relieved.

Gazi smiled as she recompiled her burger and took a bite. She was watching as Calac spread out the maps, explaining what theyd learned. And how theyd failed. Gazi calmly looked at the shamefaced [Lord]s expression.

It was never easy, Calac Crusland. Focus on the next attempt. It will be our first and last.

That was as encouraging as she ever got, and she spoke in that deliberate, quiet way that was all too ominous. Yet Calac seemed to take heart from it. He glanced at Trey, and the young man saw the complete trust in his eyes.

Of course. He was looking at a living legend. One of the Seven. Trey was reassured, but only because he liked Gazi.

He couldnt help but remember the fact that she claimed to be the weakest of the Seven in levels. Alsothat, until recently, someone had poked her eye out.

So. Theyve trapped the hallways. Six Guardian-class Golems. Gembound Protectorate. Wistrams old Golems, it must be.

Gazis eyes fixed on the map. Trey stirred.

Is that their name? Do you know them?

One of Gazis eyes flicked to him; that was how you knew she was listening. She seldom turned her head to acknowledge anyone but Flos, but if one eye was on you, you had her attention. It was something people had to get used to, like Goelv learning that people got upset if you didnt look at them with your entire body.

Goelv. What would he think if he knew Gazi were here? Trey kept glancing at the door, but Gazi smiled.

No one is watching us. Yet. I can see [Scrying] spells and all but the most powerful illusion spells.

Can you see through all of Wistram?

The Gazer instantly shook her head. She frowned, her one huge eyelid narrowing in a rare sign of displeasure.

It is impossible for me. Some placesyes. Mundane enchantments. Most of it? No. Wistram is confusing. It has always been confusing. I knew it, coming here.

Youve been here before.

Calac sat up. Another eye rolled towards him and calmly fixed him with a violet glare.

Yes. Amerys invited me before. I know some of what is dangerous here thanks to that. Those Golems I know. They are Gembound Golems. Each gem is a source of power. They fight well. They would bedifficult to kill for me. I would not fight two. Nor are they like the other Golems.

How so?

Gazi sipped from a cup. She reached out behind her and poked Minizi in the eye as the Golem tried to sneak up behind her. The Lifesand Golem retreated, stared at Gazi, and instantly fled behind Treys bed. The young man stared at Minizi. He didnt know what was up with his creation, but he thought Minizi wasnervous?

They are Wistrams soldiers of older times. Zelkyr did not make them. Hence, the Archmages can control them more directly. Hm. Even so, she has control. So. Trapped hallways, maze, Amerys in bindings, and guards.

Gazi stretched her four-fingered hand as the two young men nodded. She considered the obstacles and shook her head.

That alone I could handle. The real threats are the Archmages. Do they personally patrol the areas? The ward spellsare connected to them?

I dont know.

The Gazer nodded as Trey looked shamefaced. Her main eye kept buzzing around, checking every area for spells.

ThenUllsinoi. As great a threat. I remember them from the war.

Calac and Trey traded glances. The [Lord] half-bowed.

Lady Pathseeker. Do you mean the recent wars with Hellios, Belchan, and such? Or do you mean?

The [Scout] stopped eating.

We fought them during my lords first kingdom. When the King of Destruction began to take Chandrar, I remember strange tricks. Powerful illusions. Orders that mislaid entire armies. We encountered them rarely. I killed two of their numberI thinkover the course of the entire war. Amerys went to Wistram to negotiate a truce. They are a powerful enemy.

Trey could only agree with that. He thought of Galeis warning and shuddered.

I think they know I was trying to break Amerys out, Gazi. I dont knowif they know about you.

She shrugged, her armor capturing every motion with ease. It was apparently feather-light; Gazi had once told Trey he could lift her up fairly easily. It allowed her to scale walls and perform tricks most [Knights] wouldnt dare imagine.

[War Scout]. A former [Infiltrator] and [Mage]. Even a [Silent Commander]. However

A Level 45 [War Scout]. Low-level, according to Gazi, which meant that she was a Named Adventurer almost by virtue of that level alone. But this was Wistramunlike anywhere else in the world, Gazi was among people close to her level.

Or higher. Yet the Gazer was clearly going up her ranking of threats. Golems, Archmagesand then Ullsinoi. She seemed most concerned by one more factor and turned to Trey.

Ullsinoi must be dealt with. The Archmages likewise; the Golems can be evaded or delayed. I have gear and preparations. A single Archmage I could battle. I do not need to free Amerys, only that we get to her. We have an escape route planned. Howeverwhat about her?

Her?

Gazi shifted. She lookeduncomfortable for a second, and her spinning main eye kept zooming around.

Cognita Truestone. She is the most dangerous being in all of Wistram. She could slaughter us all, and I am no [Mage] with the protection of the academy, but an intruder.

She didnt know. Treys mouth fell openbut of course! Gazi had been in infiltration mode forthe Gazer fixed on Treys face.

Cognita? Has something changed?

She left Wistram, Gazi. Everyones talking about it. She left Wistram, and shes apparently in Nerrhavias Fallen. No one knows why butoh, I think I know part of the reason. Grand Magus Eldavin did something, but hes gone too, along with half of Terras.

Calac turned sharply to stare at Trey; the young man had told no one about what hed seen. Gazi, though? All five eyes stared at Trey for a second.

Then she began to smile that evil, malicious smile she worked so hard on.

A Golem was dead. Or destroyed.

It was the talk of no one but the Archmages, who had all been summonedfor lack of a better wordto deal with the issue.

Alerted might be the word some would use, but the Archmages had been roused from their activities and been told this was an issue. Solve it. There was a difference in how each word was used, and the Archmages resented that difference.

Even so.

Its not one of the Gemstones guarding Amerys.

Youre sure.

Viltach leaned on the table in one of the private rooms as four Archmages conferred. No Eldavin, no Valeterisa, or Amerys, or any of the others.

Just the ones here. Feor, Nailihuaile, Viltach, and Verdan. The old Archmage of Dullahans looked sleepy; he might have been roused from his rest.

Nailihuaile looked annoyed.

Maybe one of them fell into a hole or ran into a trap spell.

Feor shook his head impatiently.

A Golem? A careless student who wandered into a dangerous part of Wistramperhaps. But a Golem? This was no accident.

Do the Golems even know what happened?

Verdan muttered. Viltach sighed in exasperation.

The one I questioned didnt have any answers. They just know one of their own was terminatednot by whom or whatbut they want us to do something about it. More importantlyshe wants us to do something. I have a [Message] from Nerrhavias Fallen, top priority from one of our Mages Guilds. Guess who sent it?

The Archmages didnt have to. Cognitas missive was short and to the point.

Do not let any more Golems die. Or I will take measures to ensure they do not. There is an intruder in Wistram. Deal with it.

The nerve of that block of marble.

Naili hissed. She lashed her tail angrily, and glared in a way that Viltach was sure she wouldnt do if Cognita were in the room or even in Wistram. Feor stroked at his beard. Viltach wondered how he dyed it. You could use just a basic alchemical dye, but those washed out. He had to be more cunning. Maybe he used a spider-polymer dye? Hed heard about those.

Cognita may be pointing out that her absence means she will not hunt down the intruder herself, Nailihuaile.

And we need her?

The Star Lamia scoffed. Feor and Verdan, far older than the other two Archmages, both chorused instantly.

Yes.

Viltach looked at them, as surprised as Naili. It was Verdan who explained. The old man coughed and rubbed at his armor. Did he sleep in the stuff?

You do not remember, but Cognita has historicallydealt with all intruders to Wistram. Decisively. So quickly she would announce they were foundand deadbefore we knew they were here. She is Wistrams first, last, and only security needed. I didnt think to consider what her absence means.

We still have every Golem but her.

Viltach pointed out reasonably. Verdan shrugged.

Yes, and they will most likely counter intrudersbut Cognita is intelligent. It is one thing to send one of the most advanced Golems on a hunt. Another for Cognita to lay a trap and kill her opponent. There was an incident where one of our High Mages offended the Guild of Assassins in Baleros. I think they sent fifteen [Assassins] before they gave up. Cognita Truestone killed [Archmages]. Almost nothing gets past her.

Of course, they just assassinated the [High Mage] once he left Wistram.

Feor muttered, sotto voce. Verdan nodded.

Cognita does not care. Her authority begins and ends in Wistram. So we are on our own.

Nailihuaile listened to her elders talk and rolled her eyes.

Alright, were alone and we dont have Auntie Cognita to hold our tails and wipe for us. Theres an intruder in Wistram? Who? An [Assassin] evening a score? A [Thief]? Or

She glanced at Viltach.

Was that trap spell Ullsinoi kicked up a fuss about not an accident after all? Maybe poor Emireas seagull was an accidental casualty and there really was something going on.

Viltach kept his face straight as he watched the others for reactions. Verdan frowned, looking genuinely confused.

What seagull?

Feor calmly tapped his lips.

We have already implemented their suggestions. The students and younger [Mages] might soon notice the Creler-mural hallway is open.

At least my [Mages] will stop complaining. They can damn well get their own food if we increase the guard.

The Star Lamia rolled her eyes. Viltach agreed with that. Verdan raised a hand.

Why did we open the Mershi-lounges? I thought the point was to keep it all hidden. Secure!

The what?

All three other Archmages instantly turned and focused on Verdan. The Archmage of Armor compressed his lips instantly.

Nailis eyes lit up.

Is that what its called? Mershi? As in, Mershi, the City of Stars?

Verdan refused to say anything else. Viltach didnt need to write that down; he was going to remember that. He suspected Verdan had accidentally let slip a Major Secret.

Well, well, well. This meeting was productive after all. Feor eventually lifted a hand.

Lets keep our eyes open. I suggest we all do a bit of investigating. Amerys is under heavy guard. Butwhy not make absolutely sure, rather than leave it to Ullsinoi?

The other Archmages looked at him, and the old Archmage proposed an idea that they all could instantly agree on. Secrets and knowledgeit was a weapon. Viltach knew Verdan and Feor had the drop on him and Nailihuaile, but he had one thing they didnt. Perspective on what was happening.

The only question waswhat did you do with it? Viltach had been wondering, wrestling with that for a while. But he had a feeling his window to make his decision was rapidly running out.

The problem with heroes was that they let you down. Even if it was just by being mortal and not flying into the sun to punch it out of orbit.

Gazi failed.

Trey Atwood watched it happen. He was shaking the entire time she stealthed towards the Creler-mural to investigate.

Nobreak Amerys out. If it were possible. The Gazer had listened to their detailed account of the traps and problems and nodded.

I will attempt to reach her tonight.

Calac and Trey had looked at her, astonished, but the half-Gazer just smiled.

I cannot know how difficult it is until I attempt it myself.

She was a professional, an expert. And confident enough to gamble on detection for information. Trey accompanied her on this mission. Not because he could keep as quiet as her; rather, as a distraction.

He had every ability to visit Amerysor try toso Gazi told him to walk to the Creler-murals, pace around or go inside if he thought it was permissible, and then return to his rooms.

Meanwhile, she would be attempting to bypass the layers of security. So Trey did just that. He wondered how Gazi was going to reach that spot.

Even if no one seemed to be actively looking for her, despite her intrusion into Wistramand he was certain they had noticed the dead Golemthe hallways had ordinary Golems walking them, and [Mages]. And Ullsinoi.

The method scared the hell out of him when Gazi revealed how she was going to do it. And he realizedLevel 40 was a long way from Level 20 or Level 30.

Trey Atwood felt Gazis breath on his neck. Probably because she wasnt bothering to keep hidden. He felt his skin prickling, but he passed by a [Mage] who only nodded sleepily at him. The Selphid never saw Gazi.

She was walking right behind him. [Walking in Your Shadow].

He had no idea she could do that, but it explained how she was famously hard to find. Nor did Gazi simply rely on this cloaking Skill.

Take a left. Speed up.

Trey instantly sped up a bit. He didnt know what Gazi had spotted, but she wanted him to take a detour. He turned down a hallway and slowed at Gazis prompting. He walked on, sweating. Trey wanted to mutter, what was that? But he didnt.

She must have known what he was thinking, so she answered for him.

Invisible Mage. Perhaps a student. Perhaps not.

He nodded fractionally. Gazi was steering him away from any possible detectionand there was a lot more of it than he thought. Warded doors in residential areas. Entire hallways she didnt know the purpose of. And Golems

All the mundane ones she let him walk past, but every Golem that looked well-madeand even a few that appeared more mundaneshe told him to walk wide of. Trey stared at one of the Golems he was told to back away from.

It looked like it was just a clay Golem. Rough-made, almost to the point where the dark brown, earthy clay might leave detritus everywhere. Constantly soft clay, a common laborer Golem that was carrying its burden down the hallway; it had a harness pulling a floating trolley piled up with gemstones from Salazsar.

Very rough, very cheapfor a Golem, an expensive creation that few people in the world could affordespecially for Wistram, the Academy of [Mages], and a Golem that Zelkyr or his people might have created.

Too cheap, Trey realized. He eyed the Golem as he turned and walked sideways. Gazis voice was a hair tenser in his ear.

Theres something inside of it. Walk faster.

Trey would never look at the Golems of Wistram again the same way. Not after this night. Especially because, when they reached the hallway with the Creler-mural at last, nearly twice as long as it would have taken Trey normally, even with Telim guiding him

Gazi slipped past the Gemstone Golems in the time it took Trey to peer inside and be recognized.

Is that Troy? Hello, young man! Out for another visit?

He jumped and saw Yolv, the friendly Dwarf, waving a hand at him. He was standing in the antechamber that marked these Hidden Hallways, bold as you like.

The mural was gone. Or ratherTrey stared at the two walls, which had folded inwards, creating two murals and a hallway that connected to the lounge area.

He looked from Creler-mural to Creler-mural and realized they had split along the inside. So that now one mural depicted the first attack of Crelers and desperation and destructionand the other was a triumphant victory as they were forced back.

Parallels. It was so disconcerting to see the wall gone, though, that he staredand then looked at the Dwarf.

The [Battle Mage] was stretching in the open area as two of the giant Gemstone Golems waited impassively. Treys eyes met Yolvs and he stuttered.

Oh, I was just passing by and I thought IdI dont have anyone to guide me. Now that Telim and Sala and

Yolv slapped his forehead.

Grand Magus Eldavins factions gone! Ah, pardon me. Archmage Eldavin. I was wondering why you didnt show up all week! Then againafter hearing about those trap spells? I couldnt blame you, but anyone who came back after Amerys nearly took off their fingers, I thoughtits fine if you want to visit. How about it?

He smiled and beckoned. Trey hesitantly stepped across the antechamber. He was rather pale and nervous, and cloaked his unease by staring at the Golems.

Yolv looked at the two and chuckled. Behind him, the open hallway betrayed the tromp of the other four on patrol, and he glanced over his shoulder.

Nasty, arent they? Youve never seen them fight, Ill be bound. Well, I have, once. Theyre a terror on the battlefield. Its overkill to have them here, but Ullsinoi had a point. I was just stretching out here; come in, come in. You dont have to visit Amerys, even. Now the hallways are opened up, weve doubled the guard and were still bored.

Really?

Trey smiled at Yolv. He felt sweat running down his back, an ocean of it. It didnt have as much to do with him being a secret infiltrator or Gazis presence in general.

It specifically had more to do with Gazi slowly walking around the perimeter of the hallway, bold as you like, hand on the hilt of her claymore, smiling and staring up at the Golems.

Right in the open. Yet Yolv didnt seem to notice her. Trey watched Gazi out of the corner of his eyes as the Dwarf complained.

The Archmages told us we could let more people ineven bring guests. Who wants to sit about all day? Cards? We started betting scrolls, and it gets ugly. Mind you, we are being paid to sit here, but I am going insane.

Im sorry to hear that, Master Yolv.

He laughed.

Maybe I should start teaching students. Thats it! If Im going to sit on my asswell, I dont think I have the patience to be a teacher, honestly. Youre pleasant to be around, but some of the hairless bandits that are younger students make me want to drink magicore. How about a little visit? We wont keep you up. Do you have class tomorrow?

Trey took a step forward and one of the Gemstone Golems turned to him. Gazi ducked as the Golem turned its head. He realized she had ducked a flashing red ruby.

As if each gemstone had a cone of sight. NoTrey saw the Golem on the left, nearest to her, flashing its gemstones slightly. Only the ones on its body near her.

Confused, as if it were checking something. Gazi slowly slid left, and some of the gems dimmed ever-so-slightly. The Golem turned to track him, and Trey lifted his hands. Yolv waved at the Golems, and both turned to focus on the Dwarf.

Stop that. Hes with me. Desist. Understand?

Gazi strode towards the wall and hugged it as Trey and Yolv walked past the Golems. He saw one of the protectors turn backbut Gazi flashed past him in a blur.

The gust of wind made Yolv stiffen. Slight though it was, he instantly tilted his head backwards and checked behind him. Gazi met Treys eyes as she stood to the side of Yolv.

Hm?

The Dwarf was still a battlemage. He frowned behind him, then looked around. Yolv touched a stone on his neck and glanced at Trey.

One moment. I thought?

He turned in a slow rotation, and Trey saw Gazi slowly walk around him. He had never seen anything like that except in a moviebut this was no comedy. Gazi slid, doing a complicated walk that made no sound and kept her moving smoothly as Yolv rotated.

She had her hand on her sword and Yolvs neck. Trey held his breath

And Yolv shrugged.

Cant be too cautious. I

He smiled at Trey, whirled around, and bellowed.

Got you, you Ullsinoi bastards!

He stabbed the air with his finger, missing Gazi by a mile; she was already in a room adjoining theirs. Yolv stared at the empty air, as did Trey, and coughed. He blushed into his beard.

I thought it was them. Must have just been a draft. Erdont tell anyone I did that.

Treys smile was sickly, but Yolv was too embarrassed to notice. He saw Gazi poke her head out the hallway and tried not to explode with anxiety.

Howevershe had proved she could evade the Gemstone Golems. Even Yolv and the [Mages] as well. He was walking towards the place where Amerys was when Yolv pointed ahead and cursed.

Ah, damn. I forgot. Its a fifteen minute walk through the maze. You could just say hello to the outer guards. The poor bastards on the inside hate it.

Trey looked ahead and saw the ordinary, carpeted floor turn to mist. He looked past Yolv, into a maze of old stone, fogand ancient brick floors.

Ullsinois maze.

Ullsinoi made that?

Yep. One of their pet mazes. Trapped too. Makes me nervous, but we know where to go to get through. Actually, it does bother me. Maybe I was too hasty. Did you want to meet Amerys?

Yolv rubbed at his neck. Trey looked around and saw three [Mages] glancing up from a table where they were all arguing.

if were fighting against Ailendamus, does that mean were involving ourselves in other wars? I agreed about the Fissival-Gnoll problem already. Those damn Drakes have caused problems for us so let them eat crap. Butoh, is that Troy?

The [Mage]-guards turned, and Yolv waved, explaining hed abducted Trey for a moment to say hello. The young man wavedand saw Gazi slip past him into the maze.

She was actually doing it. He saw the half-Gazer walking down the hallway in an odd pattern. Like a wavy snake, not at random, but clearly dodging tiles that had, to Trey, the faintest glint of magic now that he knew to check. That was Eldavins teachings in detecting magic on a superior level, as he put it. Trey would never have trusted to it, but Gazi?

She bent under what must have been a tripwire, squeezed through a curtain of something in the air, and seemed to time her next step. Then she was at the maze and glanced at Trey once.

A smile without teeth. A master-class [Infiltrator]. She looked around the maze and grinned. Trey felt like using the restroomhe saw her look at him and wink one eye.

She could see through the maze.

Golems down! The Gemstone Golems hadnt noticed her on their patrol; Yolv and Trey had helped; they were stopping to scan him. The [Mages] were oblivious, and the ones inside? Trey didnt know what was going to happen next. Would Gazi free Amerys? Would they come out? The half-Gazer disappeared into the maze, clearly carefully picking her path, stopping at intersections.

Would they come out and fight Yolv? He felt a sudden pang as the kindly Dwarf sat.

Its so boring. Maybe you should bring your spellbook, Troy. We could teach you some spells. Whats your specialty?

Sand magic and light.

Lets teach you a few spells! Bring your friends, even!

A smiling woman suggested, Viltachs faction. Trey was embarrassed, and the Naga nudged the others.

The poor boy has class tomorrow, probably. Dont make him study tonight.

Another night, then. Or what abouthow old are you, Troy?

Er, seventeen?

The Naga smiled.

Then you can have a drink! No party; were on duty, but

Hes underage!

Hes seventeen. Oh, come on. Terandrians. Eighteen? Youre going to tell me you waited until you were eighteen in Wistram to drink? Its not even enforced equally across one continent!

The guards started arguing, and Trey tried to focus on the conversation with them. But all the while he was imagining what might happen next, he really needed to pee, and his nerves were humming.

No. Trey glanced up and realized Yolv was frowning. The young man looked around and heard it grow louder.

The air was humming.

Whats that? Oh, for the love of beard wax

Yolv half-rose. The other [Guards] stopped bantering and looked up. Trey heard a sound in the air. All the hair on his neck rose.

A voice.

Nowas it a voice? It sounded

Far too vast to come from lungs. Vast, yet high-pitched. An eerie wail.

I thought it was supposed to stay inside the

I know. Maybe it saw something. Another rat? Wands out. Troyget behind us.

The [Mages] rose in a second. Trey saw them walk forwards. He looked at them, then saw, as the [Mages] walked forwards

Gazi. She had activated at least two more Skills because she was half-blurred and invisible to him. She reappeared, crouching by one of the open doors. The [Mages] didnt notice; they triggered their detection spells almost as an afterthought. Magical barriers went up, and Trey saw them preparing spells.

The singing grew louder. The [Mages] seemed almost as nervous about it asthe possibility of an intruder.

Its definitely coming this way.

Fuck, fuck, I hate the idea that its malfunctioning. If its a rat again

Trey peeked out of the hallway over Yolvs head. He looked into that maze of mists the Ullsinoi set up and saw something as the echoing voice came closer. He looked at Gazi, and the Gazer stared at him with one eye. Three were locked ahead of him, and she was no longer smiling. He saw something turn the corner in that illusory maze and cursed Ullsinoi. Cursed the pranksters of Wistram.

Galei had warned him. Ullsinoi, that jovial, mocking faction was funny and they laughed at everything.

Until they stopped. And then everything was for keeps.

Trey had seen the Golems of Wistram before. He had even beheld the terrible truth of Zelkyrs final test. Golems made for war and destruction on massive scales.

The Gemstone Golems heralded a time when Wistram deployed them to fight as [Mages] made great war. An echo of Eldavins flying soldiers in magical armor.

But this Golem

This was from a time neither dominated by outright war nor pure control and power. Had Ullsinoi had it all along? Was it justburied in Wistram, condemned to wander other places? Or did the [Mages] keep it out of sight unless they needed it because they didnt need nightmares?

Perhaps all of these things combined. The one thing Trey knew, the instant he saw the singing Golem, wandering the maze was simply this:

It had been made by [Mages], [Golem Artificers], of Wistram. For the singingGolemeven had robes and carried a staff, like a parody of a [Mage]. Male? Female? He couldnt tell. But instinct told Trey that whenever it had been created

It had been made by Gazers. When an Archmage of their kind, perhaps, ruled Wistram.

He knew this because of the eyes. So many eyes. Too manyand not the gemstone ones that harkened to a machines look. Sculpted, too-real eyes. Nor was this Golem made of marble or stone. It lookedwet.

It sang, and each eye was searching around. They must have been able to see as well as Gazis eyes. Because when Trey peeked out at it, an eye was already locked on him. Gazi Pathseeker backed away. He saw her retreating, as the guards argued and shouted at it to go back. As unnerved as Trey, for all they hid it.

Gazi left, and Trey did too, not that any of the guards even blamed him after seeing that. But that was the thing about heroes and legends. It was reasonable that she failed; this was a scouting run. Even so, he saw the uncertainty return to Calac when they debriefed. Felt it himself.

That creeping possibility of failure.

I do not know what that is. All I know is that the singing heard me. As Trey sayslike bats and some monsters who use sound. What did you call it?

Echolocation.

Gazi just nodded. She sat there, tending to her sword.

Which, to be clear, didnt mean sharpening it. Gazi had told Trey once that she had never needed to sharpen her sword, a fact that defied belief for him until she cut through a stone, chunk by chunk, hacking it down and then letting him test the edge with a feather.

Rather, Gazi was applying something to the edge. Brushing it down with a strange, floral-scented liquid.

Poison? Something else? She sat very straight, calmly talking to the two young men.

I could not bypass it. So I retreated. Nor do I like the four [Mages] on the outside and the two on the inside. I have proven I can reach the mage. So. We must account for the remaining variables.

Calac Crusland nodded. Gazi glanced at him and gestured. One eye rolled towards Trey, and the [Sand Mage] hesitated as Gazi went on.

I have been prepared for a long time. I will take no chances, Calac Crusland, nor should any of us.

Of course, Lady Pathseeker.

She smiled, still focused on her blade.

Months of preparation. For me? Sitting in the ocean. I even levelled.

Trey and Calac blinked.

You leveled?

Gazi lifted her sword.

Yes. From hiding. Killing monstersReefeyes, among otherson the edge of Wistrams barrier. Practicing magic. This is a difficult errand, but I did level.

Did you gain a Skill, Lady Pathseeker?

She swiveled one eye to Calac and smiled mysteriously. The [Lord] flushed.

Forgive me. That is surely a secret.

Mm. But take heart that I am levelling. Hm

Gazi checked the edge of her claymore with her thumb. She glanced at Calac.

I need a whetstone. Could you find me one suited for enchanted blades?

I have one in my rooms. I could fetch it if it suits?

He instantly leapt to his feet. Gazi nodded, and Calac hurried off. Trey frowned as Calac closed the door.

Youve seen the new traps and security. That would be a mistake, Troy. Wed have to be unpleasant about that. But that would be curious as to why you were doing it.

Its the Golems.

The young man burst out. He met Nailis eyes for a second. She frowned.

The Golems?

Treys breath was coming too fast. He spoke quickly.

Yes. TheI saw one of the Golems in the maze. And the other ones. Are you sure theyre safe? Are you suredid you order them to come down and guard her?

The Star Lamia recoiled slightly.

Ordered them to guard Amerys? Of course we did.

Each one?

The young man met her eyes. The Star Lamia saw genuine unease there. She hesitated.

YesUllsinoi did fortheres a Golem in the maze?

She glanced at Beatrice for confirmation then smiled at Trey. But with a hint of uncertainty behind the needle-sharp teeth.

Why? Why would that matter?

II have a secret. A big one. Id trade it for a charm. Something to protect me. Just in case.

In case of? Beatrice, find me my best warding amulets. I dont have an Amulet of Protectionbut I do have some powerful ones. Besides, you know a secret has to be worth a lot.

Its a big one. The biggest. Its worthits worth the best artifact youd give me. I think I might need it. Maybe. I dont want to need it, but I might.

Really?

Nailihuaile looked at Trey and saw no lie in that. She hesitated, and slithered over to inspect the amulets Beatrice brought. She frowned, shook her head, and went over to a cabinet. She opened it, stared down at a carefully-wrought cage of silverish metal around a core of something bright and fiery red, scintillating like a little molten core in the center of it, floating.

This is an Amulet of Xion, Troy. Do you know what that is?

He shook his head as she came over with it. Beatrice silently held the other artifacts, and Naili dangled it in front of him, smiling.

I cant make it. Yet. Xion was an [Enchanter] who specialized in this kind of thing. Each gem is a powerful mana stone, the kind that you cant make. Something like the core of magic dug out of a monster. This is the most powerful amulet I would ever consider trading; I dont wear it myself because of interference with my robes and staff.

She gestured at the Relic-class artifact. Trey looked at the curved piece of wood augmented with shining crystal and other strange stone.

The Serkonian Lance. Naili saw his expression and laughed.

I know Viltach tutors you. And Eldavin? Neither one has the artifacts I do. The Serkonian Lance is a jealous weapon, though. Still, even the amulet is worth far more than most Major-class secrets. But lets put it on the table.

She did so, on the low table, and nodded at Beatrice.

You can haggle with me for the lesser ones. Whats this big secret you have? Dont worry about Beatrice. Shes beyond loyal. The Golems? Now why would you be worried about them?

She leaned forwards eagerly. She saw the young man lick his lips. Trey looked Nailihuaile dead in her eyes.

What did [Mages] fear? Gazi had asked him that.

What do [Mages] of Wistram fear? Know thatand you know one of their weaknesses. That they trust in their magic and truth spells is another. When you lie with the truth, they believe you.

He looked Naili straight in the eyes, and he didnt have to try to appear uneasy or afraid. All he had to do was remember.

Are you sure the Golems are obeying you? Havehave you seen Zelkyrs test?

Naili recoiled slightly. Beatrice made a sound.

Zelkyrs test? Dont tell me you went up there! Thats dangerous! And if its that secret flesh-Golemthats not a huge secret. But

She was off-guard for a second. Her answer told Trey everything he needed to know. She hadnt been up there recently. The Archmages avoided that place like the plague.

You havent seen what Cognitas done, then.

He looked at her, even more visibly nervous. Nailis eyes flickered.

Cognita? She left. Why. Do you know why she left? No one knows why. If you just happened to know, that would b

She might be free. Eldavin might have set her free. He was trying to when he challenged her. Thats what I heard when I rescued him. He tried the test, and the Golems of Wistramhe fought Cognita.

Archmage Nailihuailes grin was frozen on her face. Her head was slightly turned, and Trey saw her breathingbut the Star Lamia, always bouncy, movingfroze up. People could turn into statues, but she held every muscle still, half uncoiled, her body arched. Then her eyes slid over to his.

What was that? He did

She didnt know. Trey looked Nailihuaile dead in her eyes and delivered unto the Archmage of Lizardfolk, the Star Lamia, the [Enchanter], a nightmare.

You havent taken a look at Zelkyrs last test, have you?

Five Golems had once held this ground. Four permanently, in the magical battleground, the reinforced courtyard in front of the massive, sealed doors. One the true protector and mistress of Wistram.

Six Golems, but not even Trey knew the one hidden in the heart of the giant metal warrior. However, that was always how it had looked.

An invisible Golem of flesh, stalking left and right, putrid breath wafting from its maw as its eyes glowed.

A Golem made of burning magma and stone, burning from within from a heat that defied beliefa core like a star.

The tall thing of wire and metal, a scythe of a body, thin, infinitely malleable.

That too-plain, too weak giant of metal armed with sword and shield, paling in comparison to even some of its other lesser peers.

The last of them, the greatest, would walk here and greet any [Mages] who dared the final test to become true mages of Wistram. Truestone. Cognita.

That was always how it had been. An understated threat, for all the overt death here.

No longer.

If you opened those doors, the first thing you saw was a real siege weapon. Not a ballista. Nor a cute cannon from the dawn of gunpowder on Earth.

A [Mage]s siege weapon. One of their city-breaking siege weapons.

A Valmira Cascade launcher. It had a design similar to a bow, but since it didnt fire arrows, the contraption had no elongated wings. It did have a dangerously fragile-looking construction of charged glass orbs that were blindingly white when filled with power.

Each one threw one of that famous Archmages spells with a regular shot. [Valmiras Comet]. And it scaled up. However, the siege weapon could and would detonate all that charged magic that it pulled from the air and its magical fuelwhich could wipe out anything nearby.

The gunner didnt care. It sat fearlessly, aiming the rotating, hovering weapon on its pedestal straight at any intruder.

A Golem. No regular Golem either, but one made for war. Its outer casing was Wyvern-hide; it looked like the Golem was wearing leather all over, save for one huge, oval eye that was its entire face.

Again, they had taken from Gazers, but this Golem just had one huge, glowing, oval gemstone for a face. Deep red, cherry dark until you noticed the swimming lights. Perfect vision.

That was one Golem. A humanoid one, with its claw-hands perfectly adapted for the controls meant for Drakes, pointing the muzzle of the spell-throwing weapon down.

One Golem.

They were legion. Archer-Golems stood with classic longbows behind fortified ground, glowing one-way shields. Golems with swords and weapons like classic armiesZelkyrs legacywere arrayed in ranks, holding the choke-points.

The entire room had changed. Now, the four Golems stood like the final bosses at the end of the room. To get to them?

Youd have to go up, through narrow passes held by Golems. Simple choke-points. If you wanted to fly over thema reasonable thoughtthe Golems with bows and similar siege weapons would cut you out of the air.

Or the flying Golems. Like the one that hovered in the air, a glowing Golems Heart in its center. Wind and rain and lightning all flashed around, forming a body visible only by its contents.

Storm Golem. Some of the Golems were like that, elemental. Others were crafted after the physical form, built for war.

Some were neither, a mix of the two, like the huge, dog-like beast that bounded left and right, a crushing pair of mithril-alloy teeth opening and closing.

Zelkyr had made a lot of Golems. Trey thought this wasnt even close to all of thembut it was apparently as many as their leader thought was necessary to hold this place in her absence.

He didnt bother counting. Nor did Trey Atwood peek long. He simply took the Amulet of Xion from Nailihuailes limp grip, put it on, and carefully backed away as she and Beatrice stared at the Golems aiming every single weapon at them.

They even had laser sights. Trey walked down five flights of stairs, found the closest bathroom, and sat there for a while. He touched the curious cage of wire around the glowing gem. If Naili wanted it back, she could have it; it was a perk. But Trey had a sneaking suspicion she wouldnt.

The buzz that evening was of confusion. Archmage Feor himself went striding over to Nailihuaile before dinner even started.

Why had all the Golems save the original two been removed from Amerys security? Not just thatthere were far fewer serving-Golems in Wistram than before.

Oh, and some were now skirting the Revivalist areas and refused to do deliveries or carry goods through there. All per a certain Archmages orders.

Paranoia was a lovely thing.

[Plotter Level 7!]

Trey had taken a nap, or rather, a lie-down as a hunch and been rewarded. He saw Naili arguing with Feor, and the old half-Elfs face changed from annoyance to uncertainty in a flash.

He was not sitting close to the head table or with the Earthers. Trey sat with his friends. Emirea, Tov, Goelv. Calac was still on his job.

So. Were you all sick this morning or something? I heard you missed class.

Astritha looked uncertainly at her friends. None of them answered immediately. They looked at Trey. Emirea was shaking visibly. Goelv was still stunned, but Tov was just inspecting Trey.

They were in. And his friends might be obviously off, but not so much that Astritha and Messill would go to anyone with the news. Trey looked around the room and saw one of Doroumatas daughters was angled towards him. The [Depth Mage] herself? Not present. Nor was he overtly being stared at behind the dark veil.

He wished some of the others were as covert.

You son of a bitch. Im in

One of the Earthers slapped the other on the shoulder hard as he pointed at Trey. The [Sand Mage] sighed.

They thought it was a joke. He knew better. Trey looked around and rose.

Im going to bed early. Ill see you all tomorrow. I have to meet with Archmage Viltach, but Ill see you after dinner.

He looked at Emirea, Goelv, and Tov, and saw them nod shakily. Astritha leaned over as Messill whispered to her.

Look at this guy. Bragging. I get lessons from Viltach. I talk with Doroumata and Fissivals [Mage Lords]! I take lessons from Eldavin! Sheesh.

Trey half-jumped and smiled guiltily. He saw Feor hurrying off to have an upsetting experience and saw Calac as he walked towards the exit. The young man looked at him and nodded.

Today.

Theyve taken the walls twice now. We cannot keep forcing them back. The gates arebreaking.

The reinforced wood and metal had been rebuilt into enchanted gates by the King of Destructions Skill. However, there was only so long they could endure bombardment, and even the battering rams that made it to the gates before they were destroyed.

Venith Crusland wore red. Maresar? Not a drop on her.

Teresa Atwoods arm burned, despite stamina potions. She inhaled, exhaled, as she listened to them talk. Venith Crusland had no speeches. He uttered no fiery words as he turned to the officers present. They had held for eight days. Takhatres, Mars, Orthenon, all were fighting to return and bring a force large enough to break the siege while safeguarding their areas.

Flos Reimarch had told them to hold back. He could have sent Takhatres against this army, but for Hellios and the Gnolls. He could have pulled back and ceded Belchan and retreatedbut then they would have come for him on all sides, and he would have lost everything.

Maresar spat casually as she stared into the distance.

If it were any other battle, they would have already called this a disaster. Even Nerrhavia. They will not relent here. They see an end to this war. Venith. Call it.

He nodded. The [Lord of Battle] turned to the others and gave a quiet command as he stared into the heart of the city, where people had gathered. Some ran water or supplies or tended the wounded, but most just waited.

Countless souls; some stayed in houses close to the walls because they had no choice. Every citizen from the countryside. Many had taken up arms, but they had lived and died on those walls. Now? He looked at the civilians with not a single combat level to their names and nodded.

Arm them. We will hold them in the streets once the walls fall.

Teresa raised her head to say somethinglooking at the palace. The King of Destruction lay there. She turned and heard a sound go up through the city.

A rending, winding screech of metal. The scream of a spell breaking and a roar from all around them from countless voices.

The north gate.

Venith stood. He started running, and Maresar lifted her bow.

Another hour. Teresaretreat to the palace if they take the walls. We will bleed them until they run for the death of it or fall, today. Do not throw your life away.

The [Bandit Lord] stood as Teresa looked at her. She drew her first arrow and launched it skywards. The [Swordswoman] said nothing. She felt it, with that growing instinct that made all the others so quiet.

It would be today, one way or another. The sun was setting as the first gate went down. Thensoon after, the second.

Then one of the walls was breached.

Perhaps they were too slow. He could have been faster. He could have been smarter.

All Trey Atwood knew was that it had begun. All the pieces were in playor would be soon. Distractions, plans laid, actions set in motion by himself, Gazi, and Calac.

However, one thing remained, and it was simply the end. Amerys. If they reached herwhen they reached her, blood or perfect infiltration or chaos or not

They had to set her free.

There was only one recourse Trey had for that. So he knocked, and carried the bottle of wine carefully under one arm as he put a smile on his face.

After a long, long time, the door opened. The face which appeared in the doorway was familiar. Welcoming.

Troy, youre early.

Im sorry, Archmage Viltach. I brought a gift.

The man blinked down with surprise and gratification.

Where did you get that? And your amulet? Magnificent magicyou remembered my fondness for wines. Is that?

Amentus wine.

The Archmage beckoned Trey in, smiling.

Izrilian. You know, the fruit is very poisonous? The seed core, not the rind, but thats part of the allure. Although any basic toxicity test fails because even the best stuff is a tiny bit poisonous.

I know. But you mentioned you liked good wines, Archmage, and I wanted to present you with a little gift for all youve done for me and Minizi

Viltach smiled. He beckoned Trey in, and the young man saw they had a small snack platter, a pre-dinner dinner. Just as planned.

Where is Minizi?

Below, I think. I can feel her returning.

Ah, should we upgrade her next? You know, this wine might be too good to waste. Especially because I dont believe in hoarding bottles.

If youd like, Archmage.

Viltach smiled. He ushered Trey into a seat. He was a generous man to his friends, and he enjoyed fine things.

He was also a craftsman. He led the Libertarian faction, and Trey knew that Viltachs great love was making wands. Makingthings.

He had a few slimes in his workshop, and he had Eldavins gift on display. Archmage Viltach noticed Treys look at the complex, three-element wand and grimaced.

Ive barely gotten started on reverse-engineering how he made that. A cunning Archmage, that Eldavin. I dont think its a practical wand. I rather feel like an apprentice being handed a test pieceyou know, like blacksmith puzzles? An odd feeling at my age. But we can discuss that later. Do you drink? Youre a bit young by some standardsbut I wont tell if you wont.

He winked, and Trey tried to return it. Viltach waskind. It made what was about to happen feel worse.

To Golems who wont kill you, friendships, and magic.

Viltach suggested. Trey smiled as he took a cup. He drank, and the Amentus wine was very sweet. Almost too sweet.

Gah, thats sugary. But I knew thatyou know, Magnolia Reinhart loves sugar?

Viltach took a sip and grimaced, then tried it again. Trey took his time in responding. He had to take a bite of some briechomp hard on the powdery pill Gazi had given him, wedged along his back molars, and then cough and take another sip of wine.

Foul as hell. But he wouldnt go loopy, prone to answering questions, and then topple over.

If a truth spell existed, did a truth serum? Obviously. Trey tried to smile at Viltach, but it was so hard.

He didnt feel bad about Nailihuaile. He didnt like her. Elena? He felt awful about that in part, but he was also acting in relatively good faith

No. Trey would wrestle with that too, but this was direct. This was looking Viltach in the eye as the Archmage smiled at him andTrey put down his cup as Viltach took another sip and put it aside, shuddering.

Maybe we need to cut it with water or something.

We dont have to have too much. A sips enough. How are you, Archmage? Its been a strange few days, hasnt it?

Viltach agreed. The Archmage went for a pitcher of water and poured a cup. He grimaced as he swished the water in his mouth and gulped.

It has. You visit Amerys, dont you?

Trey blinked at him. Viltach shrugged. He put the cup down and sighed.

I never let you see her. You asked and asked, but Eldavin was the Archmage for you, eh?

The young man hesitated and ducked his head.

Im sorry, Archmage Viltach.

The man spoke a bit sharply.

Its Viltach. We are friendly enough to say that, Troy.

He relented as he looked up when he saw the young mans expression.

I was being careful. I know you went with Eldavinwho wouldnt? Honestly, TroyAmerys is just dangerous. I was being cautiousand we still are. But you and I make our choices and we cant go back. So lets not speak of that. Not yet. How are your studies going?

GoodI dont quite like barrier spells, though. They give me a headache.

Keeping it up? I understand. You get nosebleeds. What spell did you learn first?

[Light Barrier].

Naturally, naturally. Er, you do know you can sneeze on that spell hard enough and break it? Well, that is what that amulet is for. How did you get that?

Archmage Nailihuaile gave it to me.

Viltachs brows shot up.

So thats why sheah, we do have more to talk about. Do you have long?

Trey checked the timepiece set on one of Viltachs tables. He looked out the window at the fading light.

I have a bit, Archmage.

Calac Crusland met Tov and Goelv in his rooms. They were waiting for Emirea and Trey.

Youre early. He wont be here for another hour.

I cannot stay in my rooms. I am nervous. Thwhere is Gazi Pathseeker?

Goelv whispered after the door was closed. Calac met his gaze briefly, and Tov settled with his back to the wall, watching the door.

In her place.

She wont be with us?

Shell meet us at the Creler-mural. She has to go undetected.

Hm. Right. Sowere doing this.

Calac nodded. He looked at Goelv and Tov, and took a breath.

Youre both in. I never asked you why. Was Troy that convincing?

The two young men looked at him. Goelv half shook his head.

Troy? He is a friend, butthat is Gazi Pathseeker. She knows more about magic and our peopleeven as a half-Gazershes Gazi Pathseeker.

He said it as if it said everything, and it did. Tov was different. He just stared at Calac.

She serves the King of Destruction. A living legend. I

He hesitated. The Drowned Man rubbed at his slug half.

Greatness. Greatness lies in that, and Id be part of a legend. I could say I helped free Amerys. And I will be rewarded, wont I?

Calac Crusland nodded. He opened and closed his hands. He had seen the news about the siege of Reim this morning. The speculation.

One more hour, and theyll know Amerys has returned. One more hour and the King of Destruction can threaten them with her wrath. She might even reach Chandrar if she can teleport

You have my vow as a Crusland.

Tov just nodded, then frowned.

Who is he?

Who? Crusland? My father is

No. Who is Troy? Why does the King of Destruction trust him so much he sent him? You, I understand. But who ishe?

The Drowned Man frowned, looking at Calac and then at Goelv. He was surprised by Calacs smile.

That would take too long to explain. You can ask him yourself.

Tov gestured at the window.

Weve over an hour left.

It would still take too long.

Still, since they were here, Calac began to explain. He waited for Emirea and Trey, checking the sinking sun.

The others. Were they in position?

Twenty-eight, twenty-nine, thirtythirty-one

Elena was counting the Earthers preparing for their breakout. She didnt see Troy, but he had told her hed catch up.

George? Youre coming?

She stopped one of the young men entering. The Earther grinned at her, shamefaced.

I wasnt sure, but I talked it over and everyones coming. Saif, Eunwere packed and ready.

Does anyone suspect anything? Sidney?

The little girl was clinging to Basils hand as he walked into the room. The [Smelter] was shaking.

Were all going. If youre going.

They were a group. George nodded at the door.

I dont think we were followed, but its hard to tell. Somethingsodd, tonight. You know those [Mages] were freaking out about the Golems yesterday?

Mhm? I heard they were being removed from key areas. It made my life harder. I was trying to sneak around and prepare a distraction.

George glanced out the window.

Us too. Theres a lot of em in the corridors.

Elena frowned.

Waityou made a distraction too?

George shrugged.

Well, we paid some [Mages] to help out. Its just a prank. But its weird vibes out there, Im telling you. Likeyou know that funny Centaur guy?

Which one?

Him. The one whos helping us?

Oh, Galei?

George nodded. He glanced at the corridor again and licked his lips as he turned to face Elena. He grinned.

Its probably an illusion. But I swore I passed him four times on the way here.

Could youtell something was off? Gazi didnt even have to look. She eyed the trotting Centaur. She couldnt tell if he was an illusion or not, but she kept multiple hallways between her and each Galei.

They were made. Or perhaps it was the Earthers. The Gazer didnt know, and, to an extent, she didnt care.

She had factored failure into elements of her plan. What she didnt like were all the Golems. Thatmade no sense.

But perhaps it was an element of Naili ordering them away from the key areas. After allGazi peeked towards the Creler-murals. She was nearly eight hallways removed and had chosen this vantage spot because these particular walls didnt obstruct her main eyes vision.

She could dimly, dimly sense the magical maze in the lounge area, but that wasnt what Gazi was focused on. She counted.

Two. Two magical, artificial presences. Two Golem hearts.

She couldnt see into that maze of course, not without being in it, but it was clear the other Gemstone Protectors were gone. Treyd done the big thing. All he needed now was the key. Gazi was prepared to cause a distraction if need be since they had Goelv.

Multiple elements. She pulled the single-use [Message] scroll from her belt pouch. Slowly, slowly, Gazi moved down the hallway, watching for [Greater Invisibility], for more security from Ullsinoi. They were her opponents. But she was ready. She triggered the [Message] scroll.

Theyd have a way out. Gazi moved a bit closer, and the huge eyelid of her main eye lowered slightly.

Wait. What was?

With Eldavin gone, we are in charge, still. Nominally. But we fight. You know, Nailihuaile pulled all the Golems but the original two out of the hallways, Troy? Countermanding Ullsinoi, Feor, and myselfbut that is how it goes. We squabble.

Viltach was noticeablyoff. His voice wasnt slurred so much as he was talkative, drowsy. Trey watched him with a pang in his heart as the Archmage fumbled for a seedless grape and popped it into his mouth.

I dont see Minizi. Is she coming?

Shes coming, Viltach. But tell me more about Amerys. You didnt want me to see her?

Dangerous. She is a dangerous woman. She cannot be freed.

Trey nodded. Viltachs head was lolling.

But she wont be. Even if someone got to her, shes all locked up. I saw that. The guards have a key to her mask

Ah! Its not the one to her shackles! Doublesomething. Protected. Who gives the key to the [Jailor] who stands right next to the cell? Seemsthat always seemed silly in books, dont you think?

Viltach went to tap his nose, grinning at Trey. The young man was breathing hard, but he tried to keep as casual as possible as he sipped from his wine cup.

Yes. Then there is a key somewhere else, isnt there?

Exactly. The keythe key to Amerys shackles is in my possession.

Really?

Viltach nodded, looking around as if they were being watched even here.

Well, mine, Feors, and Nailihuailes. Silly damn stuff. None of us trusts the others, so we need three keys. Thats Wistram-logic for you. But only one of us can unlock it. So?

He shrugged. Viltach unsteadily showed Trey a mithril key with a tiny gem on the handle. Treys eyes locked on it. Viltach put it into his bag of holding and patted it slowly.

I keep it on me. Feor probably hides his, and Naili too, but there is a scenario where we let Amerys go. If the King of Destruction started winningone of us would probably slip in, cut her a deal, and let her go. It hasnt come to that. Hes on the ropes, dont you see?

I do.

Viltach muttered, head lolling down.

On the ropes. On the robes. Strange expressions your Earthers come up with. The King of Destruction will die soon, and all will be well. You see that, dont you? That nightmarish man who slaughters people. Trey. You knowIll be glad when that threat is removed. Wistram should be peaceful. EldavinEldavins a dangerous man. A genius, but I was sick of war before I even saw one. Life should be peaceful. Thats why I like Terandria. But for Ailendamus, war does not destroy nations. Itits stable, you understand?

Trey looked at Viltach sympathetically. His fingers twitched towards the wine bottle, then he relaxed.

I understand, Archmage. I would like that too.

Viltach was shaking his head like a dog, but it was lessening.

People think I favor Terandria over other continents. I do. Because Ive always thought it was better. Better than Baleros, filled with bloodshed! Better than Chandrar with horrorslike Actelios Salash.

The young man froze in his seat as Viltach looked up.

Have you heard of that nightmarish place?

I haveI have.

Viltach shuddered.

They call it their Shield Kingdom. Izril? Izril is a little better, but the Antinium have infested it, and the Drakes can be so pettylook at Zelkyr. Look at the poor Gnolls. No, Terandria. Thats where my children are.

You have children, Archmage Viltach?

The Archmage of Terandria nodded. He stared down at the table and sighed hard.

I do. I keep it a great secretbecause Wistram is so political. I have a family. II visit them as often as I can. I spend months in Terandria, when events like Earthers arent happening. I wish my children liked me. Some do. SomeI have made mistakes. But Wistram is also my home.

Cant you put the two together?

Viltach shook his head.

Some of my children have no talent for magic.

Oh.

The Archmage laughed.

From me! And ImArchmage Viltach. Can you imagine what Naili would do, that serpent? Thatthey wouldnt be happy. So I kept the two divorced. Which led to a divorce.

His face fell.

Which led to them hating me.

Im sorry, Viltach.

Trey looked at the man. The Archmage gave him the most rueful, melancholy of grins. He filled his cup with wine and the other with water and sipped from both.

You know, Trey. I liked you. I thought of you like a second sonno, thats an exaggeration. I thought of you like a young man and treated you like a son.

Thank you, Viltach.

Treys head lowered further with the weight of his guilt. Viltach closed his eyes. His breathing was quieter now, and he slumped backwards.

I truly did like you. Not just for magic. Nor just for any of that. Just you.

Im sorry.

The man sat back, head staring at the ceiling. His hand moved towards the wine bottle, and he murmured under his breath.

Would you like anotherdrink? I have water too. The wines strong.

Im fine, Archmage.

Viltach nodded as he closed his eyes. Trey glanced out the window and then half-rose, looking towards the mans bag of holding. Viltachs breath was a whisper.

You dont want any water? I put the antidote in the water. You must have taken it already.

Treys eyes snapped open. He recoiledand Archmage Viltach sat up. Suddenly, the drunken, comatose Archmage looked at him.

I was truly hoping you wouldnt, Trey. But the King of Destruction has a hold on you. Doesnt he?

Trey froze, and then he realizedfor the last little bithe hadnt noticed because it was his name, and he was used to alias and name both. But

Viltach had been saying Trey, not Troy.

The [Sand Mage] had put his staff at the door, but he had the wand Viltach had given him. It rose from its little holster at his side, and Viltach pointed a finger.

Activate!

Something flashed, and Trey locked up. The Archmage stood, lookingimmeasurably sad. Sad, disappointed, yet bitterly triumphant. He gestured.

[Rune of Paralysis]. I thought you might notice, but I wrote it into the wood of the chair. Eldavin may have taught you well, but he only gave you a month. And you were too nervous.

Trey was locked up. He could move his face, but nothing else. He stared at Viltach.

How did you know?

The Archmage of Terandria rubbed at his face, his goatee, wearily. He shook his head.

Trey. I knew from the start.

The young man watched him and the Archmage shook his head.

Youve been in the company of the King of Destruction. You might have anti-[Appraisal] wards and youre cleverI dont know who youre working with, but I can guess from your friends. Did you really think I wouldnt know? Trey Atwood. You went to Actelios Salash, you poor boy. And he has your sister.

Viltach rested his hands on the table, looking at Trey. The young man spoke.

Ishes a prisoner. You cant keep Amerys forever.

Nor will we. Nor you, Trey. Just until that man dies. I wish you had trusted me enough. I truly do.

That seemed to be what hurt Viltach most of all. He drew the key from his bag of holding and held it out to Trey. The young man looked at itand Viltach carelessly tossed it onto the table.

But I cannot let you free Amerys. Naili you duped. You even fooled Eldavinor at least, hes not here. Feor? Feor underestimates you all. But I do not. Ullsinoi is on patrol. And while its true four Golems were pulled off their sentry duty, I took care of that. Amerys is guarded by more than just her regular guards tonight.

Gazi Pathseeker stared into the Mershi-lounge and realized theyd been made in all truth. She focused on the maze and saw a figure ghosting along the winding hallways.

The singing Golem. But not just thatshe looked ahead and heard something that Trey and Calac had never seen when they had been scouting out the place.

Music. Laughter.

A lot of voices.

Come on, everyone! Archmage Viltach has expressly opened the lounge tonight!

Yolv and the other [Guards] sighed as a bevy of [Mages] strolled towards them. They gloweredthe Naga especially, not because more people was unwelcome

More because the all-Human crowd was. Libertarians, young and old, raiding the kegs, bringing food, and a lot of bodies.

After allthere was a taproom. Gazi stared grimly at an army of [Mages] and the Golem. Then she realized Trey was in trouble. Then she realized they were all in trouble as she heard the clip-clop of hooves behind her.

Lady Pathseeker. Youre good at seeking. Less so at hiding. What now? Tag or hide-and-seek?

She turned and saw four [Mages] including Galei facing her down the hallway. The Centaur smiled and calmly lit one of Palts signature cigars.

Hes late. Sos Emirea.

Calac checked the sun, and Goelv started.

Its only a few minutes past the sun going down the horizon. Maybe theyre delayed?

I dont like it. This feels like a bad storm brewing.

Tov stared at the door. Calac didnt want to say it, but he thought the Drowned Man was right. Thenhe heard a quiet knock.

They should have done a secret knock or something, but Calac was just relieved to hear someone knocking at all. Actuallywhy did you have a secret knock? He thrust the door open.

There you a

[Paralysis].

A wand poked him on the chest, and he went over backwards. Calacs mouth was open in shock, and Tov and Goelv froze as a figure slithered into the room.

The reason you had a secret knock was to let you know if it was a trap. Revivialist [Mages] followed the Star Lamia into the room, and Calac, staring at the ceiling, heard a plaintive cry.

Dont hurt them!

A girl clung to Beatrices hand, staring at Calac in horror. The Archmage stunned the other two young men and then slithered back to pat Emirea on the head.

We wont. Theyve been very bad, but you were brave to come to me, Emirea. Now, where is Troy?

She looked around, eyes meeting Calacs. The young man stared up at her as his heart sank.

It was all going bad. Viltach looked at Trey sympathetically. He raised a finger to his forehead.

Yes, I have him, Nailihuaile. You caught the others? Well done. I have been aware of the problem for over a month. And you? Today? Well, Ullsinoi can confirm my account. Yes, I thought that might make you happy.

Component parts or not, squabbling [Mages] or notthe pieces were falling down. Trey Atwood sat there, as Viltach rose with a sigh.

Ullsinois run into someone. Her. No wonder you never backed out. But theres four Archmages and an army of [Mages] between her and Amerys. So long as that rune is active, you wont leave, and your friends are hostage too. I dont take chances, Trey. I am sorry.

Youyou could let us leave.

Viltach looked at Trey blankly.

I really couldnt. It isnt just that I oppose Flos, or that I fear what hell do. Hes dangerous, Trey. He has killed countless innocent people with his damned wars. Dont you see what he does? I dont take chances with him. And in case youre wonderingI switched the key to Amerys lock. Nailihuaile and Feor cant let her out. The key is hidden, and I wont remember where it is until tomorrow.

Treys mouth opened wide in horror.

What?

Viltach gave Trey an apologetic shrug.

I read every book on breakouts I could find. Why bother letting you even open the lock? Her bindings are secure. Im taking one last precaution too, incidentally.

It was Viltach. He was the most dangerous Archmage. Not because he was as cruel as Nailihuaile. He was someone who made wands. Who made sure a plan, an object, was flawless.

Trey had made a plan. Viltach had made a plan. The Archmage, the thorough man, raised his wand to his throat and spoke.

His voice was on a delaythen Trey heard a reverberation through the room. ThroughWistram.

I am Archmage Viltach of Wistram. Troy Atlas and CarnCarn

He hesitated.

Troy and Carnare agents of the King of Destruction, attempting to free Archmage Amerys. If you see either one, do not let them escape.

He hesitated, lowered the wand, and Trey stared at him. Viltach shrugged.

Well keep Gazi quiet. We dont want a panic. Ill return after I grab her. Im sorry.

He walked towards the door. He turned back just once when Trey spoke.

Viltach. Do you know why I didnt tell you everything? You, Eldavin? Anyone? It wasnt because Flos threatened me or my sister is with him. Or Gazi.

Viltach turned, curiosity winning over everything.

Why, then?

The young man met Viltachs gaze. Bound, paralyzed, Trey still looked Viltach in the eye. There was nothing to gain by it. He closed his eyes, speaking as he used every Skill he could, straining every muscle using magiche couldnt move. So he looked at Viltach and told him, honestly.

It was Wistram. You [Mages]the academy. It is a beautiful place. Wonderful, magical. It could be so much better. But it isnt. You think Wistram and Terandria are better than other continents? I have never been to Izril or Baleros or Terandria. But I look at Wistram and I see the same thing as Chandrar. You keep [Slaves]you just call them something else. I liked you too.

He looked at Viltach. The man stood there, very still, waiting, with a faint pain behind his eyes.

But what?

Trey smiled sadly.

You are a kind man, Archmage Viltach. Just not a good one.

Viltach inhaled sharply. He looked at Trey, touched his chest, and rubbed it for a second.

Well spoken.

Then he opened the door and left. Trey was left alone, helpless. All except for one thing that Viltach had overlooked.

[Prepared Signal]. A little alarm was going off in someones head.

Not Gazi.

Not Calac.

After all, Trey was supposed to meet both of them. The alarm rang again and again, telling the person that things were going very bad. Even sothe little Lifesand Golem slowly raised her sword.

No one noticed her, at first. Alone, the Lifesand Golem was the only person not incapacitated or under attack. Elena and the Earthers were frozen in place, unsure of what to do. But the plan was moving. Parts of it, anyways.

The Golems in the hallways were prepared for something. Not Gazi, incidentally. Or Trey.

Archmage Feor sat in the banquet hall, counting Earthers. He was disappointed at how few remained, but Aaron Vanwell was there. The young man pretended nothing was wrong, but there was someone with the gumption to say what needed to be said.

You are protecting them, young man. And I shall remember it.

He turned to Leon as Aaron stared at the Archmage of half-Elves. Leon nodded, not meeting Aaron or the other Earthers glaressome already apprehended by the Golems.

I know.

The Wistram [Mages] and students were in uproar after Viltachs announcement. Feors own skin was prickling unpleasantly at the thought. So that was what the King of Destructions last gambit was about.

But he was reassured by Naili and Viltach. They might fight, quarrel, and backstab, but when an outside threat came towards them, Wistram still pulled together. That was what Eldavin didnt realize.

Wistram. Wistram, that Academy of [Mages]. The banquet hall was full with dinner diners and everyone was talking about the drama. Minizi tottered forwards clumsily, trying to stay unnoticed. She saw Feorand was vaguely worried.

Trey was in trouble. Big Gazi was in trouble. But Minizi stuck to the plan. What came next would be different, but Trey Atwood did know one thing.

What did [Mages] fear? He had thought of it long and hard for the first part of the plan. Trey knew what wise men feared. He knew what [Sailors] feared. And [Mages]?

Minizi was beginning to get noticed. A few [Mages] frowned at her. Someone pointed.

That Golemsodd. Whats up with

Then they noticed her sword. The [Mages] turned. A few backed away. Now Minizi was caught, but it was okay. She was clumsy, but she raised her sword.

A [Mage] stared blankly up at her as she found a random target. Well, not-so-random. Mage Rievan of the Libertarians was just about to head to the partyhed pulled a Telim and raided an entire banquet table.

What is wrong with this Golem? Its got a sword

He hesitated. Then his eyes grew round as Minizi raised the sword. Feors head turned.

What did you see? Minizi saw the [Mage] staring at her, backing up, fumbling for a spell, butshocked. Confused. He didnt expect this, but it was the nightmare crawling in the back of his every thought when he looked at Cognita or Golems.

But it didnthappen. What did you see?

A Lifesand Golem? Minizi very much doubted it. What the students and [Mages] saw was probably one of the serving Golems, a ceramic-clad Golem. With a sword.

A Golem of Wistram has been destroyed.

Feor remembered what that Golem had said. His eyes locked on the Golem with the blade in the slow dawning realization.

Why would Gazi need to destroy a Golem? Why would any cunning infiltrator alert anyone? Minizi hadnt gotten ituntil Trey had begun gluing the shattered Golems pieces back into place.

Lifesand could fill anything. Become anything. It was hard to walk and move in this false shell, but Minizi didnt have to do much. She raised the sword

And stabbed Rievan in the stomach. He made a sound, falling backwardsit wasnt even a good stab. But Minizi kept stabbing, until a spell blasted her across the ground.

In the silence one of the students lowered a smoking wand. The air was filled with a panicked silence, as people tried to figure out what was happening. Give them a second and they mightuntil someone screamed an alternate take into their midst.

The Golems are attacking! The Golems are rebelling!

Another serving Golem was trudging over to help Mage Rievan up. It was bending down with a healing potion in hand when two dozen spells blasted it apart. The people far from the actual scene began to panic at the scream, and the shouts were picked up and repeated.

Who had shouted it at first? Feor raised his voice to shout the truth, but too late. The first panicked [Mages] opened up on the Golems in the banquet hall, and then it was chaos.

Who had shouted that? Some panicked idiot?

The woman with the dark veil slowly walked out of the chaotic banquet hall. One of Doroumatas daughters smiled. No one suspected someone who never spoke to shout. She quickened her pace. Things were going wrong, but their part in it remained the same.

An alarm began to ring as the Earthers looked at each other. Elena went pale and went for the door.

What do we do? Did he betray us? W-what do we do, Elena?

The Earth-only rooms? We should hide! We should

The door opened. The Earthers froze and saw a figure standing there. He hadblonde hair, silver armor, and behind him was a half-Elf. And a Dwarf.

Ylawes Byres looked at the Earthers. He cleared his throat.

Excuse me. Were the Silver Swords. Weve been hired to get you to a ship.

Falene was groaning with apprehension, but Dawil and Ylawes had been talking with that friendly young man, Carn, and they were Gold-rank adventurers. In the chaos, the Earthers began their escape.

Golems under attack.

Somewhere a continent away, a Truestone Golem stopped paging through the Hundred Thousand Tomes academy for books on Zelkyr and Golems. She was going to have to pay a visit to Illivere.

But as the alarm reached her, Cognita Truestones head slowly rose, and her features changed.

Those fools.

Her eyes narrowed as she sensed Golems under attack. They were retreating in the face of panicked spells, many glancing off the Golems armor. Retreatingfrom their attackers.

A hauler-Golem stopped as a mage tried to blast the huge stone figure to pieces. The [Mage] had been casting spells wildly, perhaps even realizing the Golem wasnt actually attacking and relishing the chance to damage

The Lizardman looked up as the Golems impassive face suddenly turnedhostile. He backed up too slowly. The Golem calmly grabbed the [Mage]s leg and swung him into a wall.

Dead gods. They are att

Another [Mage] shouted in alarmright before a serving Golem dropped its tray and put her into a chokehold. More and more Golems began to stop retreating and advanced. Cognitas eyes narrowed.

Enough was enough. She sent a second command as her eyes began to glow, and one of Nerrhavias [Librarians] appeared with a stack of books. He took one look at Cognita, put the stack of books down, and ran. The Golems began to restore order. They were also going to find the intruder. And that meddlesome little Lifesand Golem.

And that stupid boy.

They threw themselves into the breach. The defenders and the attackers. Bleeding. Dying for a cause worth everything.

Somewhere, the Academy of [Mages] was in uproar. All to rescue one woman who sat in a guarded cell, watching and waiting.

Risk your very life for someone else. For a cause. It seemed nonsensical.

Yet she knew the feeling.

Honor. Respect. Fame. People laughed and said you could not eat these things, could not use them.

Yet they defined her. She was a name.

Tannousin. The small clan whose name was known and spoken louder than some petty nations because of what they wrought.

Naq-Alrama steel. Magic in their hammers.

Pride in the craft. That was her entire existence, the foundation of their clan.

Now it was in ruins.

The last true Naq-Alrama [Smith] was dead. His final work a failure. The secrets lay with her clan, with the elders, but their name was black with lies and failure.

She was Nawalishifra Tannousin. Daughter of the last [Smith] to ever forge a blade of Naq-Alrama steel.

It was not her fault she had failed her first forging. The metal had been bad to begin with. Bad metal had still slain a Djinni. It was not her error, as Teresa Atwood pointed out.

But the blame weighed on her. It was hers, so long as she wore Tannousins name and mantle. Nawalishifra knew that.

Such a heavy thing. Such an unfair thing. She could walk away at any time. All she had to give up was everything that defined her.

The [Smith] had left her forge. Her steps were unsteady. They actually cracked the old stone in places. She was sweating under the fading sun.

Feverish. Sick at heart. Tired.

But she kept walking.

They flooded the breach. Reim and Nerrhavias Fallen. Blood was spilling from cloth and flesh. Nawal walked forwards as she saw the citizens being armed. Ready to fight and die.

Not for her. She could almost taste it in the air. Blood and iron. Death.

She walked straight for that gap in the walls. The defenders paid her little mind at first. The attackers? They had eyes for swords, for the enemy.

It was wet on the ground. Blood. So much of it, and the dead bodies, that both sides were clearing it away. Nawal stared down with a shudder.

It was said of Chandrar that there was more blood than water. Which was true. This was the King of Destructions war. She was insignificantand she had failed to deliver him his weapon.

So here they were. At last, Nawal found her spot and put down her burden. Her bones themselves felt bruised. A passing [Soldier] running forwards looked at her. At theanvil placed on the ground.

Slowly, the young woman reached into a bag of holding and drew something out. A single, pure bar of steel.

As pure as she could make it. She looked at the single bar of steel and the anvil. Clean. Other [Smiths] saw Tannousin as obsessed with it. With purity and a perfection nigh-impossible to reach.

Every ritual Nawal knew was aimed towards keeping the metal pure. Towards preserving some quality, refining in voids without air, flame without heat.

Everything else was sodirty to her. It became an obsession.

Yet there was no clan to support her and make these things happen. They had fled. Nawal was alone.

The last [Smith]. She could not remake the Naq-Alrama steel, not now, under siege. Not alone.

Slowly, painfully, Nawal bent. Her muscles tore and screamed. Her eyes were heavy for lack of sleep. She felt a terrible fear gnawing away at the dead rest of her.

Yet

Also, relief. Nawal bent down, and the gleaming bar of metal slowly touched the blood running from the ground. The surface covered itself with grit and blood and filth.

The [Smith] smiled, like a girl who had been told again and again not to get anything on her clothingwho did just to spite the teller. A forbidden act.

Tannousin was an old clan. It had known great [Smiths]. Naq-Alrama steel was their great secret and treasure.

They knew more secrets of smithing. More dark tales and stories. Forbidden techniques.

Desperate, dark acts.

The steel was dripping wet when she placed it on the anvil. There was no flame. This was a parody of smithing. No tools and only a single block of metal. Not enough metal even to make a full sword. So little left after refiningnow despoiled by corpse-blood.

Fire and material.

They would have both, soon enough. Nawals lips moved as she slowly, painfully, began to draw a circle around the anvil. Blood ran into the funnel her finger traced.

Hold the line! Fight! Fight until your

They were fighting bare dozens of paces ahead of her. More blood. More death. The [Smith] knew there was a terrible power there. So she took up the one tool she needed.

Her hammer. Her hammer, and the bloody metal. Ah, yes. And one more thing.

Nawalishifra carefully drew a blade up. One of the fallen pieces of metal. Poor-quality steel. Practically iron. Even soa poor [Smith]s weapon could still kill. What a terrible irony that was. That the greatest [Smith] in the world could do what the meanest one could.

She cut her wrist. Nawal saw blood, her blood, dripping down onto the anvil. Not much. Just a drip. A drop.

Drip. Drop. Drip

She saw the blood falling. Turning the anvil dirtier. Nawal smiled. A poor, dirty act for a girl who deserved better. Yether eyes rose to the palace. To the battle around her.

She thought of Trey, of leaving it all behind. But pride. She had failed Flos Reimarch and that was the truth. Excuses or not, she had promised him a weapon worthy of him, and that was her one oath.

Nawalishifra took one comfort. One relief, as she slowly raised the hammer overhead. She swung the hammer down and struck the metal cold.

A shivering peal of sound rang out, lost in the battlefield. The metal jumped, and Nawal kept it steady with her other hand. There was a truth in Chandrar, and it was this:

Blood would pay for every sin. Enough blood to redeem every failure.

Slowly, with a steady rhythm, the hammer began to fall. It never picked up speed, but it fell harder. Louder. At first, the metal just jumped despite her hand. It rang, bloody, filthy, until even the soldiers at the rear of the fighting heard it.

But they paid no heed if they saw her. A man split open a [Soldier]s head and more blood fell. The hammer rose and fell. Blood soaked the stones and soil until it ran.

Then it began to ripple.

A [Warrior] reaching for her own blade amid the tangle of her guts looked down. She saw the bloodrippling upwards before the spear descended. The [Spearman] stared down at the blood.

It was rippling. Moving in a faint rhythm. Blood flowing, running in one direction now. Moving as Nawalishifra bled.

She had no more metal left. No magic save what was in her. A poor [Smith] had nothing to forge.

But blood? They said blood tasted like iron. Nawal tasted it in the back of her mouth. Blood was dripping down her arm.

The bloody hammer swung down again as the last forging began. A twisted, dirty blade.

A sinful creation to mend all bridges and pay all debts.

An apology in blood.

Nawal wished she could see Trey again.

Authors Note: Three chapters. Its tough, doing a first draft each time. I want to do it right. Giving myself more days to write a chapter, more chapters to conclude an arc is all for quality.

You dont really get a second chance. I can always re-write, but some people read it the moment its posted. Soits a different experience.

Someone will wait for the next chapter. Someone reading this, later, will simply find the next ones done, or even the volume. I hope both experiences are good, but well see. Let me know how Im doing from either perspective.

See you next chapter.

The Wandering Inn Analytics Graph by Amiron!

https://wandering-inn-statistics.aris.moe/

Ice Squirrel by /peekay

Sand-hug by /anito