The Wandering Inn

Book 8: Chapter 78: F

They called it Norechl. God of the Forgotten. Dead God of Lost Things. It had been named before all of this, in a time when it had first arrived. Not even the others quite knew all of what Norechl was.

Tamaroth. God of Rulers and Leaders. First of his pantheon, first among all.

Kasigna. Three-in-One. Goddess of Death and the Afterlife. Strongest in this place.

Emerrhain. God of Scholars, of Magic. And God of Secrets. A title stolen from the corpse of the last god to hold it.

Laedonius Deviy. God of Dance and Love. Almost as foreign as Norechl, a traveler.

Cauwine. Goddess of War, of Youth. Youngest of all and older than anything else in this world.

Six dead gods. Six beings who had known death and yet refused to fully vanish. Their return had taken an aeon. They had rotted. Corpses without true form. Grasping at anything to live again.

Here in the Deadlands, the afterlife, they had preyed on the smallest of souls like wretched scavengers, waiting for their moment. At last, it had come.

Izril was gone. The continent was stripped of all souls save those who had fled, or hid, or found safe harbor in the last strongholds of ghosts with means to hold off the six.

Relics whose existence transcended mere magic in some way. Objects bound to the souls of those who had held them. Power conferred on rulers even in death.

Dragonfire. Memory of objects so powerful even gods acknowledged them; a sword, an umbrella. Possessions of dead gods and their ilk.

Oberon, the Faerie King. Now that onethe six feared in truth. It would mean His death in surety, of course. And theirs.

Stymied. Hungry, held off by the resilience of mortal souls, the six had been frustrated. For all their strength, even Kasigna, who had shaped this place, who ruled it, had not the strength to harvest the last souls. Not yet.

So they all made plans or found suitable ways to influence the living world. Some did both, like that schemer, Emerrhain. Others waited or scavenged; they had long to wait. A little longera little longer would not be so hard. They were ravenous, still. But they could wait a little longer for the oldest plans and failsafes to continue working.

Then, Norechl had hatched its plan. It had gone to the edge of the world, which even ghosts feared, and cast itself into the depths. It had fallen a long time, and even the other five gods had naught but trepidation.

Norechl was not like the others. It was not even the sameas the others. Laedonius Deviy came from distant pantheons, an exile, a survivor, a refugeehe had never given reason. But Norechlwas different.

It was kin to Actelios Salash. Kin tothings. Things which even gods had no answer for. Which crept into orderly universes like a plague or gazed into mortal realms and tore holes in reality. Norechl fell into the hole blasted in the world, and not even the other five gods dared follow or look long.

If that were the end of it, it would have been enough. Yet Norechl survived. And it called its kin, the things that the living called Seamwalkers, who sometimes rose over The Last Tide, upwards. Not one. Nor two.

Thousands. Tens of thousands. Hundreds of thousands of its kind. Weaker by far, but they did not rise in the lands of the living. They followed Norechl into a plane they had never known was there. They were notintelligent in the same way as the ghosts of the dead, but it knew them. Weaker kin though they may be, they were still of Norechls get.

All they needed was a change of perspective.

It took them a long time to climb. They grew hungry. They fought each other. Many fell, too weak. More still stayed below, immune to Norechls lures, tracing their own strange thoughts. Somegot lost. But the rest followed.

When the first reached the top of their long journey, all the ghosts of the Deadlands felt it. They turned and flocked to the borders of their world and saw something that defied distance. The firstheadrising.

It took them a month to climb. A month to finally drag themselves upwards. To rest, but for a moment. The ghosts, the living soul among them, Erin Solstice, watched. They couldnt help it.

They watched the end of their world.

Erin Solstice watched them climb for a month. She did not know how long it was until she could tear her eyes from that sightbut she was transfixed. Like a moth ensnared in a web of the mind.

Time, attention, sanity, reality, all blurred away as she looked at them. Seamwalkers. Something spawned past the end of the world. It was not just that they were horrible. It was that they were so alien she couldnt comprehend what she was seeing. They did not exist like she did. Erin had witnessed strange animals from her world and even stranger monsters and creatures and modalities of life, but they were still understandable.

Norechls kin were not. Even looking upon them hurt. Even looking upon the least of themstole something from Erin. Her eyes were windows to the soul, and they leaked, tiny dribbles of being slowly sucked towards voids of everything she was.

So many. Giantssome as tall as the actual Giants. Others shorter, but there were so many. Erin Solstice gazed at Norechl, truly a being of nothingthen at them. She had a long time to see.

One of the first to rise wearied, for it was still flesh. It drooped forwards, a scabbed, slumping finger of being. Erin looked up and saw that fulsome flesh, pallid from a land that did not dream of light, shake and part to reveal dilapidated eyes. Blind vessels from which roiling filaments searched, little tendrils of squirming malevolence within the sclera, peeking left and right. The jaws folded morbidly together like the most emaciated arms opened wide, revealing a nostrous mouth which joined stomach and cilium-threads that begged, drooling, for sustenance. A ravenous coffin-carnivore trapped within morbid layers of rotting skin turned, a gesture of open embrace as a centipede might offer. Then it fell forwards and scuttled, blind and loathsome, keening a half-song, half-wail of sucked sounds. Digestion given voice, a craving of malevolent intent.

That was as long as Erin could stand to see it before she looked past it. It wasworse than a Creler. The thing heaved itself onto land, the Deadlands itself, and lay there, resting. Another being had climbed overlong too and lay, so thin as to be ghastly, mouths gibbering upwards.

Was it speaking? It was truly as tall as a Giant, but with far less mass. Some kind of diseased bone made up its shell-body, a stalk concealing interior flesh.

They were the first of thousands. If it were just those two, the ghosts might have overwhelmed them, even a single nation. Any Giant of Chandrar would have done terrible battle, even without weapons or flesh or magic or Skills to erase them.

But it was not two, but hundreds of thousands. And while every ghost in existence might eradicate them, they were more than simply horrific in and of themselves. Norechl had brought more than doom.

It had brought life.

The stalk-beast was infested. Erin saw tiny shapes scuttling, devouring, squabbling with mindless starvation as they gestated and fell from the giant thing. At this, Gerial moaned.

Its a nest.

He, an adventurer, recognized what it was, and the ghosts shuddered as they realized new life was propagating across some of the beasts. Clones or children or simply more of their kind. They scuttled, were trodden upon, and left stains on the fabric of death, but they followed their giant cousins, prey and servantscolonizers to the world above.

It was the sacred duty of Khelt and every land to fight against Seamwalkers. To eradicatewhat they brought. Actelios Salash was one of the few we could not destroy, and it was a rot that corrupted the people of Tombhome. It is one among legions. This is the end if they cross into the Chandrar of now.

Khelta spoke, and Erin wrenched her eyes from another figure, slowly vomiting the contents of its being onto a new land, the swarm devouring the old vessel and spreading out.

And still, they were so far away that the greatest sea lay between them, along with islands and much of Chandrar. Yet the ghosts saw the Seamwalkers, saw Norechls advance, because they drew on the fabric of reality, and everything was tearing as they began advancing.

That was when the spell broke. That was when the ghosts finally were able to move and fled backwards towards Khelt. Nerrhavia herself lifted her head and spoke.

I have been called the Immortal Tyrantbut I have never stained my soul as badly as some I knew. Even they I would lie abed with and hold close to wipe away that nightmare. All is lost. I would rather one of those six take me than that.

Eldritch carrion had come for the souls of the dead. Erin Solstice looked back and saw one thing amidst the doom walking forwards now, each step taking forever, but inexorable as fate.

A smile. The God of the Lost smiledat her. With gleeful malice. It had learned malice and hate and vindictiveness and vengeance and was thus more than any of its lesser kin. It had brought them here to destroy the last safe havens of the dead. To bring an end to all, no matter the cost.

Erin Solstice fled towards Khelt as Norechl smiled. It was well and truly madand even the other five were horrified.

Norechl! Norechl! What have you done?

It was Laedonius Deviy who cried out first. In horror. And yesin fright. In true fear, because he had not condoned Norechls plan, not been advisedand if he had known, he would have done battle with Norechl to stop this.

He was alone and bitterly cursing a race lost when he saw Norechls madness. Though sometimes the six gathered, it was only to break down the deads defenses. After that, they fought and went their own ways. Even now, they did not work well together at most times.

They had always been fair-weather friends and enemies, and thisthis was the final game, a struggle for survival. To be first was to crush the others. There was emotion in it, schemes and plans and alliances and, of course, desperation.

This, though, was madness even to the other five. Emerrhain was the only one of the five to respond to Laedonius message at first. Then Kasigna.

Where are Cauwine and Tamaroth?

One is gone. The other? I do not know. Watching Norechls folly. It has brought them. We are all in danger.

Emerrhain, that smug one, turned his head to Laedonius Deviy, but the God of Secrets had missed the greatest opportunity for once, occupied with his own plans around Wistram. Kasigna must not have known either, and in any other time the God of Dance and Love would also have been God of Laughter.

Not now. Emerrhains gaze was wide with a similar fear.

They can harm us.

Not I. I will destroy this infestation of my lands and Norechl next.

The three-in-one vowed, with the least fear of all, because it was her place. Even soshe did not exactly hasten to do battle. She was one. They were legion.

Emerrhain was muttering to himself as he looked beyond.

Theyll ruin everything. Fools. I am surrounded by madness. It wont stop here. They will tear their way through to the mortal realm. Devour the ghostsmy plans! I see only a few of true

He gazed, counting, and Laedonius did likewise.

The same horrors that Erin Solstice had witnessed were terrible in nature to mortals, but the gods feared onlyhe counted.

Eleven. Eleven of truest threat. I will make a pact to slay all eleven.

In time. They cannot harm me, not in my domain. Do what you wish with the others. Norechl may well destroy itself.

Kasigna turned, and Laedonius nearly reached for her, but he was too proud to beg. Nor would she have done anything other than laugh at him if he had.

Besidesit was true. Norechl was leading its kin, but it was also fleeing them. Most could not devour itbut eleven might if it were unguarded. It had thrown itself down to teach them how to find this place, like a bright lure cast into the deepest ocean.

Kasigna is right. Damn Tamaroth or Cauwine. I will find my way and cross over if I must. When the dark hour comes that this horde ravages the known world, they will call to me, and I will be there.

Laedonius spoke and strode off as well. It was Emerrhain who called out, nerves betraying him. He had always been cowardly in the face of true mightand he had not changed over eternity.

Laedonius! Kasigna! We must stand together! Do you not fear that?

The two turned and laughed at him. Laughed and laughedand Laedonius answered.

Work together? To slay those, I will. But now no safe haven remains. Mad it is, but Norechl has given us the last souls. So we will take them and fight for the greatest. Abandon your plans, Emerrhain. You will have to learn how to step lively.

He sneered at the God of Magic and went to find his place. Yesdevour as much as he could. Which continent? Which place? Kasigna turned, and a young woman who looked like Erin Solstice gazed towards Chandrar.

Vengeance can wait. I will outlast all, here.

She too left, and Emerrhain stood, cursing with terror. They could tear bits of him away, but they were still not complete like Norechl. Stillhe looked up and then turned.

Where were the other two? He did not know, because while he had been at his plans, while Norechls army rose, a month had passed in the land of the living. One monthtoo short and too long. And as the dead streamed back to Khelt, a single undead ruler heard the final toll, the final warning.

Too late.

Fetohep of Khelt, the 19th Ruler of Eternal Khelt, Revenant and ruler of Kheltnow Protectorate of Jecrasssat upon his throne and watched the news. What he saw was terrible. Yet the Revenant had perfect posture, dark, regal robes of perfect indigo writ with simple silver listing the names and lineages of everyone he had ever known and loved or hated and respected in his life hanging upon his thin, emaciated form.

Some bandages too, wrapping his fragile, six hundred year-old flesh to preserve it. A single crown sat upon his head, but no jewelry or other marks of frivolous, overcompensating royalty. The golden flames of his eye-sockets, his simple presence was authority without question in Khelt.

He sat and watched the news. It was reflected in the crystal hovering in front of him, each facet showing a different news station, and multiple other scrying orbs, which also gave him access to more points of view. He had a [Message] scroll filled with desperate communiques and a quill ready to scribe any dictation, but Fetohep of Khelt was silent.

Khelt was a nation that had lain quiet for millenia. It was, like the Shield Kingdoms, prepared to wait. A paradise that was a paradise because it zealously guarded its borders and took little role in the world.

That had changed of late, butFetohep toyed with something as he watched.

A single slip of parchment. A short missive that he had received four days ago. The Revenant King watched disaster as he held more of it in his hands. He did nothing. Because it was his duty to stay here.

Becausehe had done all he was able from this far-off throne. He was waiting to see what happened next.

One month. One month of silence from the Deadlands. Fetohep of Khelt was not a ruler prone to nervousness.

But one month was far too long. He had been told to expect the worst if he were ever faced with silence.

So he did all he could. He assumed the last plans Khelta herself had made were in action. Fetohep had madechoices. Choices for the worse, it seemed.

Disaster. Liscor. It revolved around Liscor. A single thread connected many world events, though Fetohep could only see a part of them. He held a missive from Liscor, from Selys Shivertail, and waited for her to tell him what had happened and suspected the worst.

What Fetohep watched wasthe news. And the Drake, Drassi, also came from Liscor. In fact, she had worked at the very inn that was the locus of events. Her voicewas very pained.

She would have made a fine citizen of Khelt. Not that she had earned it from reporting or her class. Not because Fetohep valued her class and levels, which were not yet that high. Nosimply because she was honest. Because she had what so many did not always have.

Morality.

if, if youre just tuning in, Im Drassi. We are watchingthe beginnings of a civil war, I think. Drake armies on the march still. This is all going wrong. Thatsee that little girl?

Fetohep saw. He knew her name and face before Drassi spoke and echoed the word.

Mrsha.

Mrsha. Shes an innocent girl. I know her. I dont care what theyre saying. Listensomeone help her. Anyone. Gold-rank adventurers, mercenariesI earn 2,300 gold pieces per year. Ill take out a debt if I have to. Someoneplease.

She was so distraught, her cohosts, Sir Relz and Noass, uniquely somber, broke in as Drassi gulped for air. It was Noass who opened his mouth.

This isshaping up to be a really, ah, terrible battle. I know we have Ailendamus army from their capital about to meet Tyrion Veltras and the Dawn Concordat on the field, but I think we can all agree this trumps that. Its unclear which of the armiesincluding threefourfive Walled Citieswill be taking sides or simply, ah, ffighting the Gnolls. We can only watch, and well be here all day and night. Do you want to take a break, Drassi? Can I get a Potion of Calm here? Glass of water?

He turned, and Sir Relz broke in.

I say, what was that, Drassi? Did you say you were paidtwo thousand three hundred? Because I am, uh, fairly certain that my remunerations are approximately five thousand per year with six hundred gold coins in expenses

Fetohep said nothing. He just watched. He watched a little girl with white fur suffering because of a color. He did not move.

He saw and felt servants of Khelt fighting, drawn from one of the great relics of Khelt to defend its wielder. That was something. But he held that little piece of paper in his hand.

How much longer will I wait? The piece of paper distressed himas much as what he saw. He should have told Kevin to stop. To wait.

But he had not known what was happening in the Deadlands. All he could do was make informed decisions, and he had little information. The people with whom he would have been consulting had justvanished. Gone quiet.

Died twice?

Nothing was more terrifying to the undead ruler than silence. He had waited centuries in control of his kingdombut the last month was the hardest he had ever lived through. Something terrible had happened. He knew it.

Thenthe ghosts came back.

They arrived in a sudden rush. A sea of every ghost that had ever died in Chandrar, countless billions, maybe a number even greater than that, from large to small, from legends to common folk, flooding into Khelt, overlapping, babbling of destruction and the end of the world, horror and despair.

Fetohep, of course, heard almost none of it. But a strange contraption he had ordered dug out of Khelts vault, the only one that his people had been able to find, twisted as a Soulweave Veila strange object like a dreamcatcher, or so Erin had claimed, but patterned with a thousand strings, creating a beautiful, eerie patternswung madly.

Signs of ghosts. It whispered for a moment as Fetohep rose, bulged wildly, then tore itself into pieces. The ruler of Khelt saw the artifact shred itself before more ghosts than its creator had ever dreamed would be in one place. And he heard their voices.

The Rulers of Khelt and Erin. Those were the only ones Fetohep could hear, by virtue of his connection with the rulers of Khelt.

return you to your body, Erin. Now. The ritual must be attempted. We must stand here. Stand, I said! Cease your wailing and hear me!

It was Khelta, first of all, the great [Queen of Necrocracy] that Fetohep heard, calling to the other invisible ghosts around him. Her voice wasstrained.

Fetohep saw her striding, gesticulating, but he did not see the other ghostsonly her. Fetohep began to speak when someone stormed towards him, through one of the walls of his palace.

Fetohep of Khelt! You must awaken Erin! You must hasten the completion of the ritual at any cost! Fetohep, the enemy has made its move, and time has run out!

It was Queen Xierca, his predecessor and beloved ruler. Fetohep had never seen her as worried as this. Anguished, yes, guilty when she reclaimed his broken body from the battlefield and gave him the weight of his duties.

Never this.

Great Khelta? What is happening? Is Erin Solstice alive? Where have you been?

Xierca blinked at Fetohep, her ghostly body the echo of her living self. She shook her head.

Alive? No. We have seen the enemy. It moves! They come from beyond the edge! Fetohep

She was making no senseand her voice was one of eighteen. Fetohep heard Serept speaking to someone. Erin Solstice was disappearing through one of the walls, looking confused. She was noticingFetohep lifted the piece of paper in his hands. He turned to Khelta as the [Necromancer] whirled to him.

Great Khelta. Wait. Explain.

There is no time! We must move! There is not time to waste!

It was so funny, coming from her. Fetohep tried to speaka month of waiting for them! He had been waiting forbut he kept his voice steady. Something truly terrible must be happening, but he needed clarity.

Time. I thought you had alreadyKhelta. Where have you been?

At last, the tone of Fetoheps voice made the ghosts pause. Serept, Xierca, Khelta looked around. The rulers of Khelt turned to Fetohep suddenly as Erin Solstice reappeared. She floated over to a window.

How ironic that she got it, among all the great souls present. But thenshe was still alive. She noticed what they did not. Fetohep saw her glance out the window, then at him with great uncertainty.

That building wasnt there before.

Khelta looked about. Fetohep saw her gaze shift to sudden unease, then she flitted to a window. Fetohep rose. They must be referring to the ritual site. Trials were still ongoing, but it had been completedhe just hadnt known what to do next. Khelta stared out of the window, then back at him.

Fetohep? How longwe went to the coast to seehow long has it been?

Fetohep of Khelt looked around at the ghosts. He knew time passed differently for them, buthe answered slowly.

It has been one month since I last communicated with you.

As one, the ghosts of Khelts rulers and Erin Solstice turned to stare at each other. If possibletheir looks of horror deepened. As one, they whirled and looked to facesomething.

Eastwards? Fetohep had forgotten the chill of unease, the scrawl of fear. His dead skin did not react in such a way, but the phantom-memory of that sensation still hovered in his mind. Khelta turned to Erin and exhaled.

Then it is beyond time. Erin Solstice.

She reached out and took the [Innkeeper]s hands.

Let us go.

Khelta turned then, holding Erins hands. To tell Fetohep what had happened, to explain what was coming and make Khelt readyand tell him it was beyond time to return Erin Solstice to her body. One last hope for the dead to make a difference among the living, some small good.

We must make a stand on Chandrars borders. We can block thembut we will need to use the single sword and umbrella if light can hurt these foes. The rest? Flee to Baleros or Terandria.

What good is flight?

His-Xe raised a finger.

Perhaps only to spite those six or choose how to fall. Khelta is rightwe must buy time. Time for Erin Solstice to be returned. That is a small victory.

Great Rulers. I must tell you something.

Fetohep tried to interrupt, but now Khelta was shushing the others.

Silence! The rest of you, save Xierca and Heris, go restore order! I must tell FetohepFetohep, we have just witnessed a portent of the end. Recall what I told you of the six? One of them has summoned an army of Seamwalkers. Into the lands of the dead. I did not think it was possible, but somehowthey are here. And they are no ghosts. I fear they might appear in our world as some specters do. So you must return Erin to her body.

Great Khelta. There is something you do not know. You must listen.

Not now, Fetohep. Listenthis is not a mere force. Actelios Salash is kin in height to some of themand they are accompanied by the spawn of legions.

The ghosts spoke over him in a babble. His-Xe was trying to define one in Fetohepps other ear unhelpfully.

Itsquiggled. Do you understand? A squiggling horror, that was the motion of so many disparate tendrils. The loathsome appendages had neither true color; I beheld the viscous blood pumping from no less than three dozen hearts. It seemed to me that each one was one and many, a conjoined dark purpose

The one that has no face or true personality leads them. Understandthey are kin to it, and it is a deadthing. Three letters. You cannot comprehend it as we have understood, but they are clearly kin in nature. But this one is not like the other five. Three letters

The Revenants head was spinning trying to hear all the voices. Seamwalkers? An army ofwas it connected to Actelios Salash stirring? Howeverbefore that. Fetohep looked his great predecessor in the eyes. She had to know something.

Khelta, that is not the only great issue

Even Xierca was speaking over him, though.

Dear Fetohep, I know there must be issues among the living. Yet this is the end. I wished to give you my final blessing. I fear those things devour souls like the six. So please, carry my last will unto

from every angle, Fetohep. There will be no stand in Baleros or Terandria. The relics of nations and Dragons are not enough in number to kill more than a fraction. They will turn to you next. Marshal my Little Brother-King! Hecrelunn willmust serve you in this dark hour, and even his power must be

Fetoheps lungs had mostly rotted away, but even so, reflexively, he inhaled before he shouted.

Rulers of Khelt! SILENCE. Hear me now! Silence, I said!

The babble of voices and orders broke off suddenly. Eighteen ghosts floated there, blinking, as Fetohep roared at them. They fell silent, and Fetohep turned his head.

Erin Solstice is here?

Im here. Didnt you see me, Fetohep? Hi.

A ghost stepped into his view, around His-Xe, and waved a few times. An [Innkeeper]. Fetohep raised the slip of paper.

Then disaster strikes twice.

One of the Rulers of Khelt frowned.

How do you mean, Fetohep?

What, Fetohep?

At last, the ghostly woman seemed uncertain. She floated forwards and noticed he was holding something, though she could not see the parchment. Fetohep simply lifted it and spoke as he bowed his head.

A day ago I received this missive. The Goblin, Rags, attempted to revive Erin Solstice.

The ghosts went silent. Erin Solstice raised her head in sudden alarm.

What? But we were not ready! We had no warning, Fetohep

Queen Heris exclaimed, but Khelta broke in.

Do not blame Fetohep. We were transfixed watching their rise. A month? A month gone? I gave him orders to attempt it if we were to vanish. What does it say? When did this ritual occur?

Like a man slowly descending a ladder into drowning waters, Fetohep went on. The sense of doom grew the longer he spoke. Because he was surehe gazed at Erin.

The Goblin set out four days ago. The ritualyesterday. The message I received comes from Selys Shivertail of Liscor.

Erin jerked.

Selys? What did she write? Whatwhat happened?

Now all the rulers gathered around Fetohep. Faces ranging from shock to confusion. Fetohep just wished he had eyelids to close.

Four days agooh, what had he done? Failed to prevent? Fetohep read the paper again. It was a simple transcription. A [Message] spell from Selys Shivertail to Fetohep and an entire list of friends and people with one cause. Fetohep had read it on his [Message] scroll, then ordered it transcribed in hopes he had gotten it wrong.

It seemed he had not. He looked down at the hasty note, which had no followup to the desperate inquiries from the others, himself included. It read:

We tried the ritual. Something went wrong. Its not her. Relc went after her.

Fetohep looked up. He stared straight at the shocked ghost of the [Innkeeper], and it confirmed the worst. If it werent the ghost standing before him

Who was it? Which one? Did it even matter?

The worst had come to the worst. Disaster struck twice. In the silence, the despair that ate that last firefly of hopean [Innkeeper] sighed.

So here they were. Erin Solstice was still shuddering from what she had witnessed.

The end of the world. The Deadlands and perhaps more.

Norechl, the God of the Lost, leading an army of its kin to overrun any protections the ghosts of this world had.

Magic sword, stolen umbrella, the sands of Khelts rulers, or even the relics of Terandrias blades and Dragonfire. Even the Dragonlord, Xarkouth, and the gigantic Wyrm were humbled by the sight of foes larger and more horrific than they could dream of.

And someone hijacked my body.

Erin couldnt help but add that one in. Justit was a bit personal. Not hugely grandokay, maybe horrible depending on which one had gotten it.

But she felt like it mattered to her.

The rulers of Khelt that Fetohep could see were joined by the great ghosts of old. Erins friends. Gerial, Cawe, Califor and the [Witches], the Rebel of String, Elucina, the Sage of a Hundred Thousand Secrets, Velzimri, the dead Earther, Abel, and so many more.

Facing the end. Not just thatRyoka Griffin was a kidnap-victim of some huge Wyrmjerkin Ailendamus. To hear Fetohep tell it, Mrsha was being hunted by her own kind.

Oh, and there were some wars in Baleros and around here. Just to put the icing on the calamity cake.

Erin Solstice had known terrible days. Days when a single Goblin Chieftain was breaking down her door.

When Skinner was crawling up to her inn.

When a Goblin Lord attacked Liscor.

She was fairly upset that the worst days of her life kept being trumped. And to look around at that sea of ghoststhis was their worst day too. Each and every single one. None could name a greater threat.

Okay, some of the really old ones and Named Adventurers were comparing this to the Creler Wars, or the time when magic died, but it was tied for worst day ever. Erin Solstice sat, chin in her hands.

So this is it?

The rulers of Khelt were putting on a brave face. Erin saw Nerrhavia, the Immortal Tyrant, trying to rally the shocked ghosts who followed her.

She countedfifty-eight speeches going on. What it looked like to Erin was that the greatest heroes of every age were rather like the people in her inn. Some had shattered mountains and led armies.

But they were still people. When the end came, some panicked. Others raged. Still more stood defiant or resolved themselves for the last. It was patently unfair.

It reminded Erin of something. A very wise Selphid, Jelaqua, had once said something to Erin after the death of Ulrien. When they talked about brave, good people like the Gold-rank Captain and Brunkr dying.

Sometimes the bad guys win.

Khelta looked at herand so did Fetohep.

What, Erin Solstice?

The [Innkeeper] shrugged fractionally, chin in her hands.

I think thats what she said. Jelaqua. She told me oncethat being a Gold-rank adventurer, an adventurer, meant that you had adventures like that. Sometimes you didnt make it out. Sometimes the good guys lost and the bad people got away. I saw it happen myself.

It reminded her of that. Of Tyrion Veltras, of Regrika Blackpaw.

Sometimes the sky fell down. Erin Solstice slowly got up. She dusted off her clothing and found she was wearing a stained and worn apron. She looked down at some casual, padded shoes and worn, Drake-style pants. She scrubbed at her hair as the ghosts turned to her.

She did not collapse. Califor drifted over, resolved.

We must reclaim your body, Erin Solstice. No one must use it.

I know. And I know this isit. Khelt cant block those things with walls of sand.

Perhaps one. Or three. Or as many as we. But some are true monsters to match Giants. And we have no Skills nor magic! We may fight themor perhaps they will erase us with a touch. The former, I hope. But Chandrar is lost.

Khelta said it calmly. Fetoheps head rose, and the undead Revenants jaw fell open, but he said nothing. Just listened. Khelta turned, and a sense of purpose entered her eyes.

We must return you to your body, Erin Solstice. That is the one thing we can do. A small act of defiance. And the restwe will make a final stand. A last, glorious battle, even if it must be with hand and soul.

Her words failed to inspire many. Howeverthe [Innkeeper] just nodded.

Yeah. Thats how it should end.

Gerial looked at Erin and saw the [Innkeeper] was smiling slightly. She looked into the distance and sighed.

Erin?

Gerial rested a hand on her shoulder. She couldnt feel it, but Erin smiled at him anyways. She lifted a hand and made a fist and it was heavy. Small. No [Minotaurs Punch] behind it.

Sorry, Gerial. This is it, isnt it?

Erin Solstice touched Gerials arm with her own, and it wasnt asreal as she remembered. What had she been wearing? What cloth? It all blurred a bit, like a lost memory.

Witch Califor broke off from talking with the other [Witches] and turned. The ghosts saw Erin Solstice smiling around. But faintly. As faintly as the flickering memory of her clothes.

Sorry, guys. I just realizedthis is it. Really it. No second chances. Im glad Im here with everyone. Really. Im justa bit exhausted. So Ill fight hard, then have a sleep. Sometimes you do your best, and then you fail. Then you find out what comes next.

She looked at her hands and laughed softly. Sadly.

Then I guess we find out what comes next after even that. Because I dont think well win this one.

A little ghost was fading away before their eyes. Noshe had been waning ever since she came here. Now she flickered low, but she was waiting. Waitingfor the last burst of flame. One last blaze before it all went out. And this timeit would be the end. Everything ended some day.

The [Innkeeper] looked up, and no one, from rulers to heroes, had anything else to say.

It was true. There was not even a body to get to. The Scroll of Resurrection seemed so far away. Khelta glanced at Erin Solstice as Califor strode over.

You have somewhere left to be, Erin Solstice. I will see you returned to your body if only for my daughter.

Erin nodded. YetCalifor? Gerial?

Everyone else is gone, though. Even if I get back. Thats true too, isnt it, Califor? Ive seen it before. Im tired of being the last one.

She lowered her head, and the dead watched her in silence. Erin Solstice closed her eyes as Califor watched her flicker. She took one deep breath. Then another. Then Nerrhavia tried to slap her.

Hey.

Erin recoiled as the Immortal Tyrant, the hated ruler of the greatest empire of her time, planted her feet in front of Erin. Nerrhavia wore a deaths mask, stained with blood. Captured in the perfect likeness of her face, dressed in the flowing robes cut from a cloth like blood, woven of heartstring and malice.

The clothing she had worn when they came for her in her inner sanctum. She looked like the Nerrhavia whose name they still spoke. Bitterly defiant to the last. She faced Erin Solstice and raised one delicately painted nail, coated with poisonous ink that released deadly fumes.

I have never heard such defeatist talk in my life. Let alone from you. Is it our end, Erin Solstice? Then let me tell you this, as someone who has never regretted anything but failing. Do not shake when the [Headman] comes! Poison him with a kiss and smile into the hereafter. If this is Chandrars final hour, let our foes forever remember our passing!

She turned and stared at the Seamwalkers.

What separates us from filth is not how we fall, but how we descend to meet our end. Raise your chin. Laugh in their faces and spit into damnations eyes.

Erin Solstice looked at Nerrhavia. The Tyrant gazed back at her.

You would have made a fine servant. With some work, you might have made a great [General] of my empire and had it last another thousand years. A shame you grew up in such a soft land as Izril.

Every ghost from Izril and many from Chandrar were glaring at Nerrhaviabut her words had worked. Erin blinked at herthen smiled.

Erin, I think she means

No, its okay, Gerial. Nerrhavias right for once.

Hey.

Erin Solstice took a deep breath.

I just had a weak moment. Im sorry. Sometimes you have them. But Nerrhaviasright.

She looked across at the haughty woman many had called the worst monster of her age. Erin Solstice saw a daring smile. The [Innkeeper]s own smile appeared again.

I dont know if I would want to be a [General]. But you, Nerrhavia? You would have made for a good [Innkeeper]. Except for the poisoning people thing.

How dare you.

Yet Erin felt it now. At the end of the worldshe needed a weapon. So, she reached out and grabbed for what was most familiar. The heavy weight, the wrapped handlesometimes you cooked with it, but it was a multi-purpose tool.

Erin pulled something out of a memory. The last living soul in the land of the dead conjured something, and the ghosts turned to see what it was.

It was

A frying pan. Erin waved it around a bitthen decided to add the memory of an acid jar since she had a hand free.

Sounds good.

Uh. Are you intending to fight the foes from beyond the end of the worst, the things that walk the worlds seam, the spawn that even those six fear and come by the endless numberswith that?

Nerrhavia poked a finger at the frying pan. Erin hesitated.

Well, I dunno what youve got, but I know how to throw a frying pan. And this is acid. From acid flies. It melts people.

She waved the jar, and the Tyrant blinked at it.

Wonderful.

However, she saw the [Innkeeper] swinging the pan a few times. When Erin Solstice looked up, she saw the ghosts of Chandrar watching her.

What? I can make a few more if you want. Even a sword, I guess.

Do you not see the end of all coming our way?

One of the ghosts demanded. Erin peered into the distance. Walls of Khelts palace, landmarksit all faded away. She could see that line of abominations moving. Erin nodded and spoke quietly.

Oh yes, I see it. Im not stupid either, no matter what you may think. I see itand this is what Ive got. Everyone else ready?

She looked around.

I dont think we can surrender. And if its the last moment, then Im going to hit one of them once. Just once. Lets go out fighting.

That was how it had almost ended, many times. Nerrhavia exhaled.

One last death to end them all. Shall we?

Nerrhavia offered her arm to Gerial, who blinked at it uncertainly. Erin just linked arms, and they began to walk forwards. The ghost looked tired. But she was smiling.

Fetohep of Khelt saw Khelta glancing at Erin, but he was listening to her speak.

You must return her to her body, Fetohep. You must.

She isone soul, Khelta. Fetohep must prepare for tears in reality. If what the experts are saying is true, they could begin crossing over once we are gone.

Serept rumbled, but Khelta stomped one foot.

He must! The enemy must not have form. Andit is a point of honor. We have sworn to return herand we shall. Do you hear me, Fetohep?

She turned to him, and the ruler bowed.

Great Khelta. It shall be done, upon Khelts will.

That is what I want to hear. Thenknow that if we vanish a second time, it will be a truer farewell. We must speak before then. I do not believe there will be time for all but the briefest farewells.

Khelta smiled sadly, and Fetohep saw it in her eyes. That valiant despair you saw in battle. He ducked his head silently again, and then spoke.

Is there aught that can be done, Khelta? The ritual spell

Her gaze brightened and the other rulers stirred.

Yes. How complete is it? That might be the onlythe only help. But it will not save all of us. Andit may fail. But there is some hope there. As for warriorsno. Khelts strength is ironically in life. The dead are just dead here, and we have no flesh or magic or Skills to fight.

She clenched her fists helplessly. The stories of her had said she had raised armies with the literal snap of a finger. Had conjured such great magic that all species had respected her and gone to her to speak with their beloved dead. This Khelta was as helpless as a Sariant Lamb.

It was not right.

The rulers of Khelt were issuing last orders to their mortal servant, Fetohep. Xierca was composing a speech.

The rest of the ghosts were justdebating where to go. Where to flee before the end. Some were of the opinion that here was the place to fight. Others had just given up.

If it is such an endperhaps we should simply let ourselves dissolve rather than be food. One last act of spite against those who would consume us. I believe it can be done.

That bitter refrain came from Elucina herself. She gripped at the phantom of a blade. Some ghosts looked shocked, but more and more nodded.

Well spoken, Rebel of String. Better to go peacefullyrather than aid those craven dogs. Those willing to lift that sword of Kings or fightbut I tire of this. All of this. If the [Innkeeper] needs to return to her body, let some fight for it. But enough. Enough.

Drevish, the Architect, sat bitterly on the ground. He looked around.

I did not toil my lifetime to see that it was all meaningless. What a bitter reward for all our tears and dreams.

More ghosts were nodding. Erin Solstice herselfhow could she return to a body that was already alive? Would Fetohep have to kill her twice?

Would she be put in a skeletons body? Toren 2.0? What would you even call that?

She was just tired. They all were. No fiery speeches remained, just resolve and exhaustion.

Still, someone did object. Amidst all the ghosts, one spoke up against Elucina and Drevishs plan, against the final stand and retreat.

Xarkouth, the Dragonlord of Stars, raised his head and spoke one word.

No. We will not fight here. Nor will we simply let ourselves vanish to no end.

Everyone turned to him. Erin blinked as the Void Dragon flapped his wings once. Nerrhavia drifted back over, outraged. She raised a hand as if to slap his huge head.

Have you lost your nerve, Dragon? If you lack the mettle to face your end well, hide until the last like the rest of your scaly kind!

Xarkouth glared at Nerrhavia and exhaled a plume of strange fire. He shook his head.

No. Do not say the end is nigh. Not now. Not yet. The enemy has made its final move in this warand so it is time for ours. Baleros stands, still. Those things come from every directionfrom every land. The last bastions will not hold. That does not mean we have lost. It is time. Human.

He turned to Erin, and she jumped.

What? Me?

The Void Dragon nodded and fixed her with one huge eye.

When we first met, you showed me the umbrellathe memory of an umbrella that conjured sunlight from the real world. Gifts of the six turned against them. Are there not two more?

Erin hesitated.

Y-yeah. But ones a noose that you hang yourself with and the others a horn that you blow to alert people. Not the most useful. Like a sword.

The Dragonlord nodded.

Just so. Yet now is the moment. Doubtless, they see the endbut every battle needs a fitting signal. Use the horn. Tell them Chandrar still holds fast and to sally forth!

Erin looked up at Xarkouth. She had seen so manyamazing sights in the lands of the dead. Truly. Amazing, heroic, painful like Zel and Maviola, and just strange. Like the Putrid One. Like Yderigrisel.

So many beautiful things, but the heartbreak and loss and despair ground it all down into nothingness. Meaninglessness. It was one thing to resolve yourself to end it well. Almost impossible to see a way to believe anything could overturn that force.

Yet the Void Dragons deep gaze asked her to try. Erin hesitated. She reached out and tried to capture thathow had it gone? She tried to pull it out of nowhere, that horn. But it was hard. She couldnt reach for it.

Blow the horn to sally forth? Why? She needed something that even Nerrhavia couldnt give. Helplessly, Erin turned to Xarkouth.

But even if we fight together, is there really a chance? I need a chance. I needhope.

The Void Dragonlord looked at Erin as she ran a hand through her hair in frustration. She tried again, but it was like grasping for smoke. She looked at Xarkouth.

I cant do it. Not without aan idea of what to call for. Tell me theres even aa one in a million chance and Ill take it. Im not afraid of that. Im just tired of playing a game where the other side has cards under the table. And a crossbow. And the deck is stacked, and theyre doing some other card-stuff.

We all are.

Queen Merindue of Nerrhavias Fallen murmured. The Sage of a Hundred Thousands Secrets, Velzimri, shook his head.

It seems to me theyinvented the rules. We are all chess pieces, standing upon the board of ages. We should have known an age ago.

Xarkouth looked around.

Some did. This game is not as badly weighted as you think, Sage.

Erin looked from Dragon to [Sage]. She squinted.

I didnt know I taught either of you to play chess.

Both Velzimri and Xarkouth frowned at her. The Void Dragonlord huffed.

I did not need to be taught by a mortal. I am the Grandmaster of Scales, one of three in Izril. The foremost among my species! In life, that is.

Velzimri closed his mouth, and Erin blinked several times.

G-grandmaster of? Wait, whats your ranking in death?

The Void Dragon turned his head. He refused to answer until Erin poked his side a few times.

Number four thousand twenty-three from the best. There are more dead than living can dream of. Some are truly great minds and souls. Even to me. Sound the horn, Erin Solstice. If this is the end of all, it deserves no less.

He looked down at her, and Erin smiled. She reached out, trying to remember what it was she needed.

Ghosts gathered around her, despairing, resolved, the [Witches] still talking of one last design. Some were already fleeing, like Roshal, while others clung to Khelt, hoping their own plans would succeed.

Erins friends stood around her: Elucina, Velzi, Cawe, Gerial, Abel, even Drevish, grumbling as he looked at the Kheltian architecture he would never get a chance to work on. And thereErin saw a group of eighteen figures standing in a line. On each side of a King, their descendant, the one who would remain as he stared at the same throne that each had rested upon.

Except Khelta, of course. She hadnt commissioned a throne in her lifetime. They arranged themselves youngest to oldest.

So Xierca was the first and Khelta the last. They were smiling, with pride and the dignity of their ages. Humans, Stitch-folk, Serept the half-Giant, a Garudaunited by their duty.

Come, Fetohep of Khelt. Hear our last words. Each of us must entrust you with our will and blessing.

Erin Solstice turned and saw Fetohep standing there. She had not known the Revenant longor had she? She had spent so long in Khelt, now, that she had grown used to Fetoheps mercurial ways.

She had witnessed him flustered, embarrassed, annoyedbut never so afraid. Not so lost and stricken as now. He faced his forebearers.

Can I offer you no weapons? Can nothing be done?

Serepts huge head bowed as he towered above all.

Not in the lands of the dead, Fetohep. Make ready for a storm. Warn the living. Return Erin to her body. I have a great favor to ask of you for my peoplebut keep Khelts people safe. That has always been our task. Now, keep them alive as long as you can. Even forever. Let the strength of Khelt be in life, not death.

Khelta closed her eyes briefly. The greatest [Necromancer] of Khelt took a tired breath.

Did I choose wisely or poorly? I feel helpless. I, who thought I mastered death itself.

Queen Heris the Second turned to her predecessor and reached out to touch her arm.

You have carried us to this day where other nations were consumed. Even now, it was our will that protected the many ghosts of Chandrar.

Khelta smiled at her. Then, both turned back to Fetohep.

Come, Fetohep of Khelt. For a last time, listen. You have borne our interference and nagging quite well. It was not meant that more than one head should bear the weight of our duty. We will cease bothering you very shortly. Just one more selfish request from all.

King His-Xe threw back his head and laughed, but he nodded.

Keep my greatest friend, my beloved champion, Salui, safe. But I forget myself. Come, son of Khelt.

He extended a hand grandly, and Xierca simply offered her hand as if they were walking along one of Khelts garden paths. Erin saw Fetohep, standing there. Shaking.

He was watching his kingdom vanish. The ghosts of Khelt, citizens, his mentors and guides and inspiration

No, no. Nonot now. Such petty wars. I have not delivered Erin Solstice to her body. I havefailed to protect even a single one of her beloved ones. Even a child.

Mrsha?

Erin turned, and Fetoheps head rotated towards her. She didnt know about what was occurring on Izril.

King Izimire the 17th bowed his head.

You have guarded Khelts borders, Fetohep. Sometimes we fail by standing too zealously apart. I gave my people everything, but ignored the rest of the world. However, even we cannot salve every wound. Khelt is a selfish kingdom.

It was not always. Some of us made war.

Thekheldans head was bent low, and Khelta and Heris looked at him with calm understanding. The 3rd King of Khelt looked at Fetohep.

Simply endure. And choose your successor to be better than you.

He turned to the next man, Tkayl, who bowed to him like Fetohep to Xierca. Regrets and stories. Erin Solstice saw Fetohep gazing at each one. Eighteen periods of Khelt ascendant or struggling. Soon to be lost.

No. No, no, no

He stumbled backwards. Half-turned, nearly trod on the hem of his robes. Then he looked at Erin Solstice. The [Innkeeper] saw only golden flames, an emaciated mummys face. She wondered, if he were here, what his true face would look like.

Six hundred years of service to Khelt. Centuries without friends or any purpose but his people. She knew how he felt.

It was all crashing down. Erin reached for him, but Fetohep just looked at her. And those dying flames of despair grew a tad bit brighter.

It cannot be. It will not be. No.

Fetohep. I am sorry to leave you with such a burden. Come.

Xierca spread her arms, like a mothers embrace, but Fetohep turned away from her.

No. This is not happening. This is notgoing to occur. Erin Solstice? Walk with me.

Huh?

He turned and began striding away from the rulers of Khelt. They exchanged quick glances, then floated away from the dais after him.

Fetohep. What are you doing?

But the Revenant was just walking away, almost stumbling, still. Erin floated after him.

UhFetohep? Buddy, youre going the wrong way. I think this is sort of important.

No. Thieves. Thieves and wretched fools. I will not have it. No, no

He was truly stuck on that word. Erin saw the rulers of Khelt float a bit faster, and now they began whispering.

King Dolenm turned to the others.

Hes in denial. Thisthis does not bode well for the future. You said he was unshakable, Xierca.

I didFetohep!

King Razzimir stopped Xiercas anguished call. The 15th King of Khelt, who had ruled during the Creler Wars, looked knowing.

Panic attacks. My living advisors had them. Fetohep? Breathe. Or rather, imagine yourself breathing. Stopcollect yourself. I didnt know undead could have panic attacks.

Khelta floated along, miffed.

I didnt design mine to do that, even Revenants. Are you certain you did the rituals correctly? Fetohep! Attend us!

But the Revenant strode onwards. He was heading towards the balcony. For a breath of fresh air into dead lungs? Now, the rulers of Khelt surrounded him.

Fetohep, all will be wellwe must tell you about the undead.

Vizir Hecrelunn is difficult, but he means well. Fetohep, stopyou must hear us.

I command you to stop by the will of the 7th ruler of Khelt! Fetohep, remember your duties!

They were losing patience with him fast. Gracious rulers or notErin saw Fetoheps shoulders hunching. Serept even went to block Fetoheps path.

The Revenant walked through him. It was the first time hed done such a thing and such an affront that Khelta lost her patience.

Turn and gather your nerve, Fetohep of Khelt! Now!

The other ghosts voiced their agreement, and at last, Fetohep did stop. He turned around swiftly and suddenlyshouted.

Silence, you wretched cowards!

Khelta, Xierca, Serept, His-Xe, and all the other rulers stopped in place. Erins mouth fell open in delight. Gerial looked from the rulers to the spot where Fetohep was. He could neither hear nor see Fetohep, but he could see the shocked expressions on the others faces.

Whats going on?

Fetohep pointed a shaking finger at the eighteen ghosts. His golden flame eyes flared brighter now. Not with anxiety or panic attacksa ludicrous thought in the undead. NoErin saw it was anger. Passion.

The end of Khelt? Last words and will? Do I hear despair from the rulers of Khelt when the last hour is upon us? Have you forgotten who you are? Who I am?

We have forgotten nothing, Fetohep. We see the odds arrayed against us. The end of the world is at hand!

Queen Heris snapped back, startled. Fetohep stared at her. His ethereal voice trembled.

The end of the world? I refuse. I refuse to allow it.

Erin exchanged a glance with Serept, but Kheltas eyes brightened. Queen Xierca gazed at her successor, mouth slightly open. Fetohep whirled. He stared out at the balcony.

The sun was just rising over his city. Early morning. Good. He looked back.

The world ending? Not this day or any day I rule Khelt. I am Fetohep, 19th Ruler of Eternal Khelt! Eternal Khelt. I did not inherit this glorious throne and millenia of effort to watch it end today. Let the world try to end. When the sea rises, I will order it to turn back on itself. When the mountains crumble, I will build them anew in gold and jewels.

Ooh.

Erin Solstice saw him whirl. He pointed at the eighteen rulers.

Fight like you are the meanest warriors of Khelt and speak not of defeat to me. I will return Erin Solstices body no matter who has stolen it. Erin Solstice?

He looked at her, and she jumped.

Yes, Fetohep, sir?

Leave the living world to me. Go. Do not let yourself perish. Leave your friends and family to me. I will deal with this petty civil war between Gnolls and the idiocy of Drakes.

He strode to the balcony. The stunned rulers of Khelt followed.

Fetohep? Where are you going? You cannot hear us outside of Khelts borders. Fetohep

The King of Khelt looked back once.

That was my false body, Queen Xierca. Come with me. I will never lose your voice. I am Khelt.

Then he too ran. Erin Solstice saw the rulers of Khelt chasing after Fetohep as the Revenant King began to walk, then stride, then jog, then run.

In the mortal realm, his servants, coming to see what their ruler was shouting about, saw Fetohep of Khelt running. He dashed across the throne-room, into the balcony overlooking his city. Erin Solstice saw Fetohep look back at her. His golden eyes flashed

Then he leapt off the balcony.

It was a quiet day in Khelts capital city. The name of it was, strictly, Koirezune. However, everyone simply referred to it as the capital.

Koirezune was actually a name that Khelta the First had given itafter a small city that she had grown up in, lost to time. A tribute to her first home, rebuilt in splendor and upgraded into a true wonder of the world by nineteen rulers and countless generations.

Each building was a work of art; from above you could see the workings of Khelts citizens, who wanted for nothing but great purpose. Even the paving stones had been known to be custom-cut, and there were streets where each stone was a work of art; some had poems etched onto the stone.

And that was the street. Why did Alked Fellbow know all this?

Wellthe Named-rank Adventurer thought it was a smart move to know facts about his new employers city. Not that Fetohep had demanded he ingratiate himself, but this might be his home. Forever.

It was such a surreal experience to be in Koirezune. For one thingthere was no coin. There were other faux currencies, and social standing was a world unto itself, but the open caf they were frequenting didnt take money in the sense of gold. The latest fad-currency were these delicate rings, some as plain as polished sandstone, others made of platinum.

They were worth something in pure metal, but it was justfun. However, you tipped each other with them. Alked was a master archer, tracker, and more, so he could see some people exchanging them from his seat or creating loops to hold the rings. That was the latest fad in Kheltand practicing fighting. He had already seen three impromptu duels break out, and one of the combatants had been an old man!

But thenthey werent sharp blades, as Fetohep of Khelt had outlawed it so his citizens wouldnt kill each other. Some were trying to learn how to be [Blademasters], and others shot arrowsall because they had seen their Kings great rampage north.

Fetohep of Khelt. Alked mused on the strange ruler who had met him face-to-face, unlike Queen Yisame, whom he had never actually heard address him personally and only seen at court functions. He was interrupted by a nervous, female voice.

Are you sure we can eat here, Alked? You said you dont have the local coin.

The Named Adventurer stopped his musings. He turned as his mother, his sister and her husband, and his youngest brother all stared at him over the delicate foods of Khelt.

Its fine, Mother.

Are you sure? Because I remember you saying that when we were celebrating you becoming a Silver-rank adventurer, and then you couldnt pay

Alked Fellbow was a Hemp-caste Stitch-folk man. His skin was made of the very beasts he hunted in part and magical hemp. But it still made him lookrough. He had survived a Manticore savaging him without armor, but he was still considered Hemp-caste by Stitch-folk.

By contrast, his family were all Cotton. They had traces of Hemptheir heads especially, but they had been elevated thanks to his deeds in Nerrhavias Fallen. Not to Silkbut they had certainly profited from his career.

Still, family was family. Alked shook his head.

Mother, we are in Khelt. This is not a trial period; we have been granted citizenship forever. For ourselves, our familyuntil we leave. The caf owner was only too happy to let us eat here.

For an autograph. And they dont take coin. How will we work? How will we survive?

Alked sighed.

We dont have to work. I told youwe will receive food. A bounty of it, from the fields and harvests by the undead, every week. Even if you tossed it all away to rot and lay on the ground, you would be fed. You can walk to any of the places where food is given out and ask for more.

Of course, there were limits. Someone who kept taking food and just tossing it on the ground might have some of Khelts officials inquire as to the situation, but you really couldnt starve.

From undead.

His sisters husband muttered uneasily. Alkeds sister sipped from an expensive tea into which someone had addeda kind of dumpling? Apparently it had come from Fetoheps chefs themselves. OneTeresa had requested it.

Teresa Atwood? Alked thought he remembered her as a guest. Or was it a Trey? He sighed and rubbed at his forehead.

Theyre safe, Meriede. We all are.

But what if you fail one of His Majestys requests? We should find work. What do they pay for decent weaving?

The Named Adventurer looked up.

Motherthey dont need basic textiles. I keep telling youthey can get silk clothing practically for free! You should find a hobbythey value art, passion projects.

Silk? Truly? They let anyone buy it, not just the Silk-folk? Could we get some? Is that permissible? How much would some of that cost?

Alked wished Fetohep did have a monster to slay. Instantly, his family was diverted. Only his younger brother seemed to understand just how lucky they were. The rest had grown up in Nerrhavias Fallen, but his youngest brother was still fifteen.

Alked. Do you think I could practice magic? Oror just go exploring Khelt by myself?

He was a city-born kid who had not known the bad days of living in the poorest districts, but he was still Hemp.

Why not, Ereid? Go ahead. Pack some provisions. You can find how much a wand costs later; I think theyd probably trade you for a good weapon. Thats all the rage, so a practice wand might not be as sought after if its just [Light]. Spellbooks are hard, but I can buy one. If you want to goI hear there are any number of interesting sights in Khelt. Just be mindful of others property.

The young man beamed, but his mother threw a fit.

Absolutely not! Hell fall prey to monsters!

Alked clutched at his head.

There are none, Mother. If he finds one, he just has to shout and a skeleton will literally rise up to protect him. Do whatever you want! We have found a paradise, and you keep expecting it to be snatched away! Run naked in the streets if you want!

Really?

His sister looked interested, and her husband frowned at her. Alked hesitated.

No. Not these streets. That is against the law, but there is a town where thats accepted.

We should move there.

Dear.

Every desire, inclination, and habit was catered to in Kheltwithin reason. Alked himself had taken one look at the mansion hed been assigned and given it to his mother and relatives.

That had been a mistake. His mother expected this all to vanish, and fairshe had lived in Nerrhavias Fallen, where entire districts had been evicted of their people so new landowners could build what they wanted there.

But not Khelt.

Its safe, Mother. I was given citizenship for being a Named Adventurer. The same as Frieke of MedainFrieke of Khelt and the Herdmistress Geraeri. In factthere she is. Frieke!

Someone jumped, and a magical falcon nearly took off as a Dullahan woman, looking just as amazed as Alked, turned.

Oh. Fellbow.

She hurried away from browsing a stall of hand-cut gemstones that the owner had left unattended with some relief. She had much the same look as his family, but the Named Adventurers were clearly glad to see each other.

Alked, is this your family? Im honored to meet you. Frieke of MKhelt.

The rest of Alkeds family were in awe at the famed [Falconer]. With Alked right next to them, they rose and instantly began fawning over her. Alked wished he had some of that. Not that he wanted to lose his connection with his family, but just a smidgen.

You brought your entire family to Khelt, Alked?

He nodded.

It was part of what His Majesty offered me. Not you, Frieke?

She looked around.

No. No, I didnt think that was too necessary. Half of them would be stealing everything in sightI have a few Ill ask about. Have you, uhgotten any requests from His Majesty yet?

None.

Alked had been exercising, and hed gone hunting past Khelts borders just to stay in shape. Frieke looked like shed put on weight, and she patted her stomach.

This is too amazing. I have a magical bathtub that fills itself, and Ive been eating without paying at every restaurant intruly, a bounty. I honestly dont know if Im even a Named Adventurer anymore. Of course, Ill fight in defense of Khelt! Just

Alkeds mother looked anxiously at Frieke. She hadnt even gone out on the town until Alked took her.

You truly think this is safe, Adventurer Frieke?

That was it. Alked rounded on her in exasperation.

Mother, please! Ive told you again and again. This is better than Nerrhavias Fallen by far. Better than Medainany nation in the world! This is a paradise nation. One of less than ten! No one will ever harm you. No one will knock you down for being Hempit is against the law to discriminate, and Fetohep of Khelt himself has issued our family citizenship for our children and childrens children. I know youre expecting some Silk official to do something, my status as Named Adventurer or not, but we did it. I did it for us. Were finally s

Alked trailed off. He turned his head at the same time as the embarrassed Frieke, whod been looking around during this family argument.

Both Named Adventurers picked up on the commotion faster than the others. There was a cadence to some shouts and exclamations that you could pick up on as potential trouble. Alked heard it now. Gasps, screamsbut the figure that came sprinting down the road was so fast that the sound only followed in his wake.

Fetohep of Khelt, 19th Ruler of Khelt, went running past the outdoor caf that the Fellbow family were sitting at. Frieke of Khelt and every citizen stopped, turned their heads, and saw a blur blast past them.

So fast he left a wind current in his wake. Most barely knew what they sawif you blinked you missed him.

As a [Ranger of the Great Desert], Alked got the best glimpse besides anyone but perhaps Friekes hawk. He saw Fetohep, wearing his regal robes, crown shining on his head, dead, mummified fleshrunning down the street.

Something Alked noted in that shocked moment was how good Fetoheps form was. He ran like the warrior hed been, back straight, arms and legs pumping. Not lazily or in some pretentious way, with his arms spread behind him in a v shape like some [Assassins].

He just booked it. At the speed of one of the greatest warriors of his era. Maybe with magic too.

Everyone was silent as the ruler of Khelt passed by. Frieke looked at Alked, and he nodded.

Yep. I just saw that too.

After a second, someone galloped after Fetohep. One of the few officers, shouting.

Your Majesty! Your M

Alked rose from his table. His mother turned from the already-distant ruler to Alked.

My son. Was that the ruler of Khelt who just ran past us now? Does hedo that for his health?

Her voice was hopeful. For a second, Alked entertained the notion that this was some civic health program led by the ruler of Khelt. Then he swore, vaulted the table, and took off after Fetohep.

Go back to your mansion! Frieke!

Im coming! Im

The King of Khelt was already three streets down by the time Alked began to give chase. His citizens turned and saw the blur race past them. At first, they wondered if they were seeing this or had heatstroke. Then they began to panic.

Fetohep of Khelt never ran.

Never. He had moved swiftly at times, to stop an imminent accident in his presence. On the battlefield, he galloped and fought swiftly on foot

Yet a King did not run.

Fetohep of Khelt despised Flos Reimarch for the King of Destructions lack of decorum. Yet here he was, running. His feet struck the paved ground so hard that he thought he damaged the paint on some unenchanted streets.

A few citizens were walking in a group, fearless of wagons, which were a rare sight inFetohep dodged around them and saw them whirl and drop their gelato cones. He nearly ran into a little girl crossing the street and, rather than knock her flat, picked her up.

For eight steps, the girl of about eight and Fetohep stared at each otherthen he deposited her next to her mother. The Revenant never broke from the dead run.

jesty! Your

They were chasing him. An officer who happened to be on horseback, two Named Adventurersand all the servants and most of the people whod seen Fetohep gave chase.

None of them caught up. Not even the woman at full-gallop. Alked and Frieke actually overtook the rider, but Alked Fellbow at full-tilt realized

Fetohep was faster than he was. They were both high-level [Warriors], and unlike Alked, Fetohep had run across the battlefield in armor.

So the Named Adventurer grabbed a potion from his belt and popped a Potion of Speed into his mouth. He accelerated and finally managed to catch Fetohep after fifteen seconds of dodging past stunned citizens.

Your Majesty! Whats going on?

The Named Adventurer knew his voice was condensed thanks to the Potion of Speed, but Fetohep of Khelt heard him. The Revenant turned his head, and Alked realizedhe was shouting.

Follow me you wretchedFellbow!

Sire?

The Named Adventurers heart was pounding hard from the chase alone and the sudden panic. Fetohep made it worse.

Go to the Yasian fields and find Herdmistress Geraeri! Rally with her and tell her to take her greatest warriors and find me! Now! Arm yourself for war!

Who? Against whowhat? Where?

Alked had to know. For answer, Fetohep just cursed, spotted someone, and skidded to a stop.

Alked had to stop, turn, and run back because the Ruler of Khelt was staring at a group of friends clearly having fun with one of the many recreational activities in Khelts capital. Not swordplay.

Pottery. They were all making crude pots at an outdoor lesson being led by a young [Potter], a young woman that Alked recognized.

Wasnt he supposed to guard her with his life? She looked fairly unremarkable with a potters apronaside from a deep scar across her shoulder that ran just up to the neck of her high-collared shirt. Alked thought it was a sword-wound.

Pewerthe of Khelt.

Your Majesty?

The [Potter] gasped as Fetohep turned to her. He looked at his named successor in case the worst should happen. The gaggle of friends all froze and looked up.

Y-y-your?

They were stunned, but Fetohep just looked at Pewerthe, his heir apparent, and spoke. To her, to Fellbow, and Frieke, who sprinted up just in time to hear him, clutching at her chest.

Pewerthe, go to the palace. You and my trusted servants must keep order while I am gone. Sound the alarm. Ring the Dragonward Bell. Ask a servant where it is if you must. Go.

What? The

Pewerthe looked up, but Fetohep just turned and ran. Alked Fellbow saw him turn his head and snap.

Find the Herdmistress! Now! Frieke! Go with Fellbow!

The group of innocent would-be potters saw Fetohep continue sprinting through the capital. They looked at Pewerthe as she turned pale

Then they began screaming. It was an acceptable reaction. But perhaps premature. As the [Potter] tore the apron from her front and began runningthe King of Khelt truly began alarming people.

There were almost no [Farmers] in Khelt. There was little need; the skeletons might lack for Skills, but they could perform most tasks perfectly.

Even so, Fetohep hired [Farmers] with each generation to keep an eye on the crop-yield, and it was actually a fairly prestigious position.

An easy one too; all Colovt had to do was tell the skeletons what their orders were.

Colovt of Reim. He still felt that he was of Reim, even though the King of Destruction had been asleep for three years when he decided to go to Khelt. There was no future in Reim, or so he had believed.

When Flos Reimarch had awoken, Colovt had felt the pullbut only faintly. This was safety. While he could have marched to the King of Destructions banner, he had a family to think of, and he didnt doubt Fetohep would keep them safe even if Colovt asked to leave. He was not that petty a man. However, Colovt would never return.

So he stayed. Today had seemed like another day of adding to the sugarcane yields and finding an entire hundred acre section to begin planting. Climate control was also no issue. If something needed growing out-of-season or in different weather, it would be done.

It sounded noisy near the capital today. The farm that Colovt was working on was quite far away, but he had a home near to the capital so he could occasionally meet with Fetohep himself. There was such noise that even the [Farmer] taking one of the skeletal wagons to his destination looked up from eating.

There was no driver, of course. He just told the horse where he wanted to go and had breakfast on the go. That meant Colovt could admire the scenery, chat

And he had a perfect vantage point to see the ground ripple and one of his cornfields vanish. The [Farmer]s jaw dropped open. Then he saw something push itself out of the ground. For a moment, it blinded him; the pale ivory reflected the sun perfectly.

Then he saw a massive, domed head. It shook itself off as if it were alivethen more ground bulged, and three more fields vanished. In horror, the [Farmer] saw it wasnt hundreds of feet long. It was at least a thousandit was so large

The Jaw of Zeikhal clawed itself out of the soil and cast a shadow over everything. The city, Colovthe gaped upwards as dirt and debris fell from a city-devourer. One of Zeikhals greatest threats.

Undead. Bone. The [Farmer] felt even the horse freeze as the Jaw uncovered itself. He was speechless, flat on his back. Staring up at it as ghostly green flames appeared in its eye socketsall sixteen of them.

What is happening? Was it the war in the north? An emergency? The [Farmer] didnt know, but then he heard a sound. Arumble beneath his feet. The horse abruptly began galloping again, taking him out of the radius. Colovt realized what was happening and leapt into the drivers seat to urge the undead horse to racebut the undead very politely waited until he was clear before the second Jaw of Zeikhal began unearthing itself.

Two. Twothe [Farmer] looked back, petrified, as an eye socket larger than he was rose, flickering with red malice. Not at himhe knew the undead were safe. He knew it

What terrified him was the third behemoth coming out of the ground. That was when Colovt began screaming. He shouted at the horse.

Take me home! Take me home!

The undead steed began turning, instantly obeying. Jaws of Zeikhal were rising from the ground. Colovt knew what they were.

The last defenders of the capital. The largest undeadif they were coming out? He raced back home as four dug themselves out.

Four. Counting the one that had died in the north, that was every Jaw of Zeikhal that Khelt had ever bought or acquired the dead bodies of.

They were not the only undead rising. As he rode, the [Farmer] passed by another section of flat earth breaking apart. He saw the ground cave in, revealing a hollow pocketand out marched a legion of Kheltian warriors.

These ones were no ordinary skeleton laborers that Colovt bossed around. They were soldiers armed in gold.

Gold, or some other alloy that didnt rust or tarnish with time. They came out of their resting place in ranks of fifty. They halted only a second to let the wagon gallop pastand Colovt felt the horse slow.

Keep going! Keep

Then he saw the ruler of Khelt. Fetohep of Khelt had found a horse. He galloped past Colovt, his voice like thunder, riding an undead horse, shining bone armored by warplate.

Rise! Rise in defense of Khelt!

A thousand undead skeletons on horseback followed him, weapons raised. They streamed past the living man, eyes burning with fire, riding undead mountsbut even they couldnt keep up with Fetohep on horseback.

He was heading straight north. The [Farmer] watched the cavalcade pass, then saw people streaming out of the city. They halted when they saw the Jaws lumbering forwards. The dead rising.

Not just one legion. Not just twothe dead outnumbered the living as they poured forth. Ten thousand in the first minute. Then twenty

Colovt left his wagon. He stumbled for his homethen fell to his knees. He looked up. A Jaw of Zeikhal slowly began to walk past him. This one was modified. It had some kind ofshrine? Some kind of altar on its back, like the one with the golden palanquin. Undead streamed around it, following the King of Khelt.

The [Farmer] did not know why they were rising. He did not know where Fetohep was going. But he pushed himself up and ran to find his family. It was

The end of the world. The Creler Wars had begun again. Somethinghe didnt know. He looked up from his panic only when he saw the Giant.

Serepts kind had ruled Khelt, once. Half-Giants. Smaller than their kin. Even Khelt had known no true Giant citizens. It had only ever sheltered one. She had come here to rest the last three decades of her life. For food, companionship

She had bequeathed her body to Khelt.

A shadow across the world. The first earthquakes began as the undead Giant unearthed herself. Unlike the othersthere was still enough flesh on her body to make her more like a zombie.

Even her flesh refused to rot thousands of years later. Fetohep pointed.

Go! Rise in defense of Khelt!

They were all rising. Not just the borders guard, but the last dead buried at the capital. Emergency weaponsthe treasury?

He was racing north, but he knew that Pewerthe would be heading to the palace. He had given orders to let her be admittedbut he had no time.

Fetohep raced forwards. The horse carried him faster than he could run on foot by far. He had been a [Rider]now the sheer acceleration left a dust cloud in his wake.

Dry Khelt was shaking. Every citizen, from the borders to the capital, could see the giant undead rising. As far as ReimHellios? Farther.

A dot on the horizon. A dust cloud billowing into the sky.

The Giant stood and began to walk. And each step was a minor tremor. The damage to the capitalFetohep didnt care.

Your Majesty! Whats going

At last, the speaking spells reached him. The intelligent servants of Khelt had realized theyd never catch him. So they questioned him via speaking stones.

Admit Pewerthe and direct her to the Dragonward Bell. Calm the citizens.

Fetohep checked himself.

Keep them from panicking over duly. The legions of Khelt march! Arm the living! Open the vaults, and arm each soldier and officer with the finest weapons save for the innermost vaults! Send for my principle [Ritual Magi].

Yes, Your Majesty! But what is going on?

War.

It was the most succinct answer Fetohep could give. He didnt know where the Seamwalkers would benot yet. He didnt knowbut he knew what must be done.

He had waited for this day all six hundred years of his reign. At lasthe gave the orders.

By my will[Open the Vaults]. Scroll of Greater Haste!

The world distorted, and Fetohep snatched the scroll that was written on the air itself. He used a Skill bequeathed to him by his nature. Not one he had gained in lifebut in death. But he held it, for one second.

Get me [Message] scrolls, scrying spellsalert each nation from the Mages Guild and summon every [Mage] and [Scribe] to stand ready! Fellbow, Herdmistress Geraeri, Frieke will all follow me. Collect them and follow me at all speed!

The Giant was turning, and two of the Jaws of Zeikhal were following it with their curious, loping pace. The last was moving to the west.

Two Jaws and the Giant Zirconia will head southwest. One will stand guard at the border. The last follows me. Vizir Hecrelunn! Report to me, now!

No response from the damned [Vizir]. So Fetohep spoke to his servants.

Your Majesty, we cannot catch youhow?

Unseal the last two Revenant Tombs. I will direct them once awoken. Do it now. And tell the [Mages] who are working on the Great ProjectI require them to finish their work. No matter the cost. Have them burn through every artifact in Khelt as fuel if they must.

All Fetohep heard was stunned silence, a faint choking sound. He cared not. The ruler unraveled the Scroll of Greater Haste, and the mount under him sped up as if a slight [Speed] spell were affecting it already.

The world slowed as the words flashed on it. Fetohep looked back once at the ghosts laboring to catch up. The rulers of Khelt, Erin Solstice

Follow me, great Khelta. I ride.

Then the spell activated.

[Greater Haste].

It was the same spell that had once worked on Ryoka Griffin, only in a scroll rather than a potion. But Ryoka Griffin had been unprepared for it. Fetohep was ready, and his horse

Vanished.

People of Khelt left their homes and turned to see the giant undead rising. They fell to their kneesand heard him. They barely saw him, only heard thunderand then the flash as Fetohep rode.

He passed Khelts border in ten minutes. But he never lost sight of the ghosts, nor they of him.

He was Khelt.

The first thirty minutes of Fetoheps ride were naught but panic and the dead unveiling themselves. In fact, the Vizir Hecrelunn did not condescend to even pay attention to Fetoheps summons. He was reading history books and could not be bothered to hear another inane request like attack the Empire of Scaied, Kheltas will or not.

It took nearly twenty-five minutes for Pewerthe to get to the palace. Not just because the citizens were in full panicthere were so many undead marching through the streets they were literal walls of armor.

She realized that they would part for her and ran through them to get to the palace in the end, but it still took another fifteen minutes to get to the bell.

The servants had been expecting her, but even running after them, the bell took the exhausted young woman twelve more minutes to get to. She stopped before the great bell etched with the downfall of Dragons and looked up at it. It was eight times as large as she and hung in a tower built in the 4th Kings rulebequeathed to Khelt from the surviving Shield Kingdoms.

Pewerthe hesitated long as she took up the long hammer made of a single bone of ivory. She could barely lift itso two servants had to help her swing the mallet of Dragonbone.

The ground already shook from the passing of Giants and so many undead marching. When Pewerthe hit the bellthe tolling was deafening.

But it was not a physical sound. It was like a [Dangersense] alarm, but deeper, sonorous, echoing for minutes within the soul itself.

Everyone in a hundred miles of the bell heard it. Babes woke up from their sleep and began to wail. Those sleeping in during the morning jolted out of their bed, shouting in alarm.

A hundred miles. Not very far in Chandrar. But the bells alerted everyone in Reim, Germina, even parts of Nerrhavias Fallen and other countries around.

They looked upand saw the undead rising from Khelt, if they hadnt already. However, the Dragonward Bell was more than just one toll. When Pewerthe struck it

They all began ringing.

In Germina, a bell in the capital city of Ger began to toll. In the Shield Kingdom of Merreid, the Bazaar of Fables, Djinni slowed and looked up as a bell at the citys heart sounded. They laughed as the mortals stared up and screamed in horror.

From Qualvekkaras heights, Garuda took to the air, and their [Queen] stared as the bell set onto the top of one of the mountain summits began to sound.

Who has rung the bell? What is happening? Dragons? Find out!

She took to the air herself as her bodyguard spread out. All three Shield Kingdoms heard the alarm. Only in Actelios Salash, where no Dragonward Bell had ever been given, was there silence.

Some things were better not woken, even if Dragons returned.

Yet the bells rang. Not just in those four kingdoms. They tolled in Roshal too, and the Emir Yazdil stopped dining on breakfast and looked up in alarm.

They rang in the south, in the domain of the Empire of Sands. In Zeikhal itself, buried deep.

They rang in the Iron Vanguard, as Tulm the Mithril came to a halt, and the Seer of Steel whirled. A bell bequeathed to the Iron Vanguard was chiming in the center of Invictel.

That was when the rest of the world began to listen. And that was when the Vizir Hecrelunn realizedhe closed the book, rose, and spoke.

[Long-Range Teleport]. What is that fool?

He was a user of magics from the era of Khelta herself, Khelta and Heris, both of whom he had known and served. He could lock onto the amateur [Message] spells and derive coordinates from there. Distance was no object to him.

The [Vizir] popped out of the world and re-emerged into the air over Fetoheps head. He snapped.

You fool! What is

Hecrelunn looked around, and the red light in his eye sockets winked once. Where was?

[Teleport]. You

This time Hecrelunn barely caught sight of Fetohep before the Revenant blasted past him. Hecrelunn did a double-take then flew after him.

[Haste]. Fetohep of Khelt! What are

He failed to catch Fetohep. Hecrelunns crimson eyes became pinholes as he realized the King was using a [Greater Haste] spell.

That is a relic of Kheltwhat is going

Then he noticed the Giant and the Jaws. Hecrelunn nearly slammed into a rock spireFetohep was outside of Khelt! He blasted it into pieces, then turned.

The Giant is? One, two, threeyou had five? How did you getFetohep of Khelt! Heed me! [Teleport]

He failed to catch Fetohep six times. The ruler didnt even notice Hecrelunn, such was his velocity, until the enraged [Vizir] began throwing lightning spells. Then Fetohep slowed.

Hecrelunn. There you are.

The undead had to fly at top-speed just to catch Fetohep, and his voice shook with fury.

The Vizir deigned to answer yourwhat is going on? Dragons? When did Khelt receive a Dragonward Bell? What is happening?

The end. The ghosts of Khelt are in danger. An army of Seamwalkers. I require you to actnow! I am unveiling the tombs. Khelta herself and Heris fear they will be destroyed.

Fetohep relayed the information in the most succinct way possible. Too latehe forgot something.

Hecrelunn understood Fetohep was in communication with the dead ghosts, but he was loyal only to them. The Vizirs red gaze was twin pinpricks, then he spoke.

An army of? Ithis Vizir will communicate with them. Relay my words! Ask them how it is I shall fight for them!

There is no time. They are with me

Or theyd catch up. Since there were no physics or Skills in the Deadlands, they moved at the same pace except for the six, whomever they were. Normally, that could outstrip all but the fastest mortals, but Fetohep had left them behind for the moment.

They would follow him. Yet Hecrelunn waspanicking. Just like Fetohep.

Do not play games with me. I am the Vizir that has served both rulers of Khelt! I shall speak to them

Vizir Hecrelunn. Silence.

Fetohep slowed further, and the [Vizir] raised two hands brimming with hostile magic.

You do not order me, petty little

Fetoheps undead stallion jumped sideways, and the ruler of Khelt, enhanced by [Greater Haste] and his Skills, grabbed Vizir Hecrelunn by the throat. The other Revenant felt a vice grip close on his throat. Fetohep was still riding, but he lifted Hecrelunn and bellowed.

Now is not the time for your petty pride. I have not a second to waste on you, Hecrelunn! Khelta and Heris are in danger! Are you a servant of Khelt or a rabid dog? Fly north! Teleport as fast as you canKhelt follows! Find Salui and the half-Giants of Serept and break the Terandrian Crusade, the Claiven Earth, and Medain! Go to the capital city and liberate the King of Jecrass!

Totake part of Izril?

To support me? He wasnt ready. The Necromancer of a year ago would have rejoiced to hear of it, wrapped in death, and unleashed all his worst nightmares upon the Walled Cities, Antinium, and Gnolls.

Not Archmage Chandler. Not now. So he was relieved and alarmed at Fetoheps reply.

No. Khelt must go to Izril, if only to stop this madness of war. But my task is far greater than that. A foe kith and kin to the Seamwalkers has emerged. It is vulnerable. I will slay itor damn Khelt in the doing. I have need of your aid.

Who could be doing something like that? Where? Azkerashs mind raced.

Naturally, Your Majesty. I am hidden, but my servants are well able to help

I do not need that. The might of Khelt joins me. If we cannot prevail, no force can.

That washarsh but true. The flying [Vizir] and that Revenant Draugr were potentially stronger than Kerash, Venitra, Ijvani, and all of Azkerashs Chosen. For now. The Necromancer tapped a finger urgently on the desk he sat on.

Then what?

I have dire need of the greatest [Necromancer] living. Can younot see what comes?

Fetohep sounded surprised, and Azkerash felt an unexpected moment of uncertainty.

I see nothing, Great Fetohep. Do you mean the dead? There are spellsbut I seldom employ them. Nor do I seeghosts.

Presumably some might hang around his castle? If only the Drakes hed slain and travelers. But none were to be found. There were things to be done with spirits, but it was an aspect of necromancy even his class had abandoned because of the difficulty. Yet Fetoheps voice was urgent.

You will see none on Izril. Not anymore. Yet master every spell you can, Necromancer. I have great need of an object, and you must build it within days, ere I land on Izril.

An artifact? For what?

There was a hole in his castle from the distortions, and Belavierr was nowhere to be seen. This was not the time to take on projects, and Azkerash was weighing how to refuse when Fetohep really got his attention.

This is a matter beyond vengeance or my nation or your goals, Archmage Chandler. I require you to build this relic at all costs, and I will reward you with whatever you desire. But it must be done. Create for me a Soulprisonthe likes of which even Great Khelta would admire. And make it as strong as you can. Strong enough to hold something greater than a Dragons soul.

Azkerash sat straighter, and he had already been in excellent posture.

A Soulprison? For what? What is this foe? Name it and I will try to slay it myself, Fetohep.

The Revenant hesitated.

Ityou must take exceeding care not to damage the vessel. I go to slay an [Innkeeper]. Erin Solstice. And capture what lies within.

Azkerash was glancing at a scrying orb, but when he heard that, he rubbed at one ear.

Excuse me?

It did seem like the world was ending. Khelts march into the north had shattered the plans of everyone, from the King of Destruction to the High King of Medain.

He hid in his palace as a man in chains was led out of the dungeon into the light and deposited outside the gates of Medains capital.

Raelt of Jecrass looked around in bewilderment. His captors had suddenly pulled him out of his cell, dressed him with the same clothingeven armor and his sword that they had taken from him the day he was captured.

He suspected this was some other dark ploy of Perric, but he couldnt understand how. He even saw they had tossed the key to his shackles down and hesitated.

If he picked it upthen the [King] of Jecrass turned and saw something unusual.

Thedrawbridge was rising slowly. Then with increasing urgency. So were the other gates to the capital. But far from garrisoning the wallsRaelt saw the guards and soldiers fleeing into the city.

This has to be a trick. Heshes doing something.

The [King] refused to pick up the key. He was in another hazy dream of captivity, and hed wake to incense or see them chanting spells over him. Another way for Perric to

The shuddering man, far thinner than hed been, looked ahead and saw something bearing for the city gates. So convinced was he that this was another false memory or vision Perric was trying to trick him with that he didnt believe it at first.

It was a ludicrous sight, anyways. Why would Jecaina, his beloved daughter, be riding for him? She was shouting as she urged her horse to ride faster.

No, this was a blatantRaelt began laughing. If it were real, there would be no explaining what followed her. Perrics magicians had to be getting desperate. The Djinni was far better than they were at making illusions when they forced her to it.

If this were real, and the painful, too-tight shackles and sensation of swaying in the sea breeze were realRaelt stared at the fading light.

If it were real, why was Fetohep of Khelt riding behind Jecaina and an army of the dead following them? Jecrass [Riders] galloping with shouts, riding for all they were worth? [Knights]? All bearing down on Medain.

Father! Father!

Jecaina was shouting his name, and Raelt refused to look at her. Nohe took it back. The illusion was too good. He didnt want this.

The young woman threw herself from the saddle and nearly broke her neck as she landed. She saw the key, the worn man swaying as the wind nearly pushed him over. The only thing that was the same was his eyes, and they looked at her then jerked away.

Jecaina? Noyoure not real.

Father! Its me! Im sorry it took so

She threw her arms around him, then, and Raelt refused to believe. He struggled with the hope, the strange way his captors had begun ramping up their efforts, and the horn call that had terrified all of them out of their wits.

Only when a figure stopped in front of him and Raelt felt the touch of deaths aura itself, death laced with the purity of purpose and the grace of the King of Khelt, did he wonder if Perric could ever fake that. He looked up, and a figure leaned over his horse.

Raelt of Jecrass. Has High King Perric harmed you?

Notwith blades. Are you really Fetohep?

I am, Your Majesty of Jecrass. Jecaina. Take this blade and free him. Hecrelunncease loading the ships. Come here and inspect the King of Jecrass. If you find him harmed undulymagically or otherwisehang High King Perric from the tallest tower in Medain.

Raelt smiled. It had to be the Djinni, Hauste Fyeiz, who was doing this. He liked this dream. But then Jecaina was cutting the enchanted chains free, and Raelt shuddered as he raised his arms.

His people raced around him, tossing themselves from the saddles, but Fetohep just called out.

To the docks! Saluibreak these gates down.

If it were a dream, why did a screaming giant of an undead race past him and smash through the gate? WhyRaelt began to believe as Jecaina hugged him so hard it hurt. As he saw the undead streaming through Medains gate, and that horncall still echoed in his soul. When he saw that gigantic, floating ship coming north and Orthenon himself riding pell-mell towards the King of Bandages standing on the prowRaelt inhaled.

Am I saved? Whats happening? What about the war?

Fetohep rode back to them as ships looted from Medains harbor began to set sail. He pointed towards Sand at Sea as a walkway was lowered.

Raelt of Jecrass, Queen Jecaina. You have been done a great injustice, both, but I have no time to punish High King Perric. Laterperhaps. But I have great need of your strength. Will you join me?

Raelt looked up, and Jecaina gasped as she saw the fried King of Destruction. Raelt stumbled aboard, and someone handed him ale nearly ten thousand years old. It still tasted good.

That was how four rulers, three [Kings], a [Queen], and one [Vizir] took to sea. It could have been five rulers with High King Perric, but not even in this hour did Fetohep want him.

This was it. All the drama, all the strife, led to a single moment in time. Each had made their own choices. Did he regret some decisions?

Oh, of course. Orjin, Strongest of Pomle, wondered what would have come of things if he had just held himself back and not freed a few [Slaves].

The dry Chandrarian air whipped across the lands surrounding the single oasis of Pomle. It had changed markedly this year. Magical construction had begun, and the practically barren canyon had developed housing, even pastures and the beginnings of a town.

However, it had all been abandoned, repurposed into the walls of dirt and stonewood being too costly to wastethat shielded people with bows holding each entrance to the canyon. [Martial Artists] stood next to [Soldiers], silently watching an army approach.

Waiting for Nerrhavias Fallen. When they had come, they stretched from one end of the flat horizon to another, and they heralded their arrival with drums and horns. The riotous sound had lasted all morning and most of the day, yet the thrumming of their footsteps, the sight of thousands of chariots riding forth was the true threat.

Orjin saw one of the Stitch-folk [Martial Artists] uncross his arms uncertainly. He had surely trained to fight outnumbered, but he would be lost in that sea of bodies. Yet Pomle held its ground. As it had when it had been founded.

So much death. More to come. Yet Orjin had done everything that he had felt was right. It just seemed to him that what was right for a man was not the same as what was right for someone responsible for a nation.

Even Pomle.

Salii laughed at him when he said that. She was waddling around in armor, but she held up her clipboard like a shield as she passed behind the barricades shed bought or had made up. Well behind the [Martial Artists] waiting amidst the few fighters holding the pass.

The enemy would come over the cliffs in time, and there were fighters like Salthorn and her grappling experts and Xil and his spear-fighters who needed space and had volunteered to fight up there.

But the heaviest fighting would be at these two choke-points. Ideal with the [Martial Artists].

Ah, but they were few in number. And the army that had come against them at last? It was not a garrison force. Orjin looked across more people than he had ever seen in his life, and it seemed like the glittering army of faces, chariots, and warriors was without end.

The hordes of Nerrhavias Fallen. A Grand Army. Orjin almost smiled.

Almostif it were just him alone, he would have resigned himself to his fate and seen how far he could go. But behind him were people who would die and had not asked for this.

Did I make a mistake being so selfish, Salii? I should have acted more like a leader.

In reply, the Drake just laughed and slapped him on the butt with a clipboard. Orjin looked at her, and the Drake shook her head.

Orjin, I come from the Walled Cities where all they do, from Pallass to Fissival, is pursue their petty ends. Power, appearancevery few thought of the world in terms of right and wrong. Perhaps it isnt the most advantageous way of doing things. But I like it. Pomle can still win.

Hm. If each [Martial Artist] brings down a thousand foesyes.

The Drake shook her head. Shed purchased plate armor from somewhere. She slid down the visor and spoke in a muffled voice.

They dont have your resolve. Inflict too many casualties and they will retreat. Althoughthis armys come for Tiqr. The Empress of Beasts is their target.

Orjin considered this. He glanced over his shoulder.

Ah. Then should I not have offered her the Peace of Pomle?

Salii shrugged.

That might have been a wise strategic move, but Im not a [Strategist].

They were beginning to chant. A trumpeting elephant heralded the arrival of the Empress of Beasts, Nsiia.

She wasnt much changed from the last time Orjin had seen her; she had lost her spear, and her bodyguard was different. And she had an army.

But the woman herself rode upon a Grand Elephants back, if not as large as the other one, a hissing housecat with Golem-legs on her shoulder. The Empress of Beasts was followed by her Wild General, Vasraf, on another elephant, and Tiqrs army stood with the [Martial Artists] of Pomle, who parted to let her pass.

That was vaguely interesting to Orjin, and her army had been welcome reinforcementsuntil the Grand Army came calling. But the ones who really attracted his attention were the Empress of Beasts companions.

The Monks of Sottheim and the Loquea Dree, servants of the King of Destruction, had challenged the [Martial Artists] of Pomle and traded techniques for a week. Some had lostmany of their best had won.

Orjin himself had sparred with the [Abbot], Shurein, and found the old [Monk] impressiveif different in ethos to Pomles folk. He was quick; Orjin still had a bruise from yesterday on the back of his head.

The largest battle in living memory and you had to punch each other all night long. I suppose thats a good sign. You didnt level up, did you?

No.

The Strongest pushed aside the potion Salii offered him. The Drake sighedthen shuffled behind Orjin as the most interesting duo appeared.

Domeheads armor was battered from fighting [Martial Artists], but he came through the fighters like he was a prize-fighter, still shadowboxing and practicing the punches he had observed. And behind him

Ksmvr of Chandrar, the heir to the [Silver Illusionist] sword school, had the twin blades he had stolen from another Gold-rank adventurer in his hands and a crossbow in his third grip. Nsiia still carried the magic sword that glowed with such intensity.

A Gold-rank adventurer. A strange one. He stopped next to Orjin.

Strongest.

Ksmvr.

H-hello.

Salii poked her head around Orjin and nodded at the Antinium, great enemy to her people. Ksmvr raised his mandibles, and Salii hid around Orjins right. The Golem halted, lights shining in its head.

Here they were. Orjin calmly watched the horde of Nerrhavias Fallen advance. Ksmvr clacked his mandibles.

I regret to say, this might be my fault. I may have offered war too many times.

I offered it once.

The two exchanged a look and nodded at each other. Orjin rather liked Ksmvr. It was a shamethey would not have longer to talk. He had been curious how a four-armed species fought.

Poorly, as it transpired. No one had made a martial art for Ksmvror if there was, he didnt know one. An Antinium [Martial Artist]. Now there was a dream to excite Orjin.

One week since Tiqr had rode towards them, fleeing Nerrhavias advance with the Monks of Sottheim and Loquea Drea, and proposed an alliance. One week of watching Ksmvr spar with the greatest [Martial Artists] and those who used blades who wanted to learn his sword school.

One week of petting the strange cat as she lay on his head while he stood on piles of stones and perfected his balance-striking. Consumed mostly by preparations for war in Nsiia, Vasraf, and Saliis case.

Orjin had spent most of that time practicing and keeping company with Domehead and Ksmvr. The Golem had learned how to movethe foundations of it at least.

Antinium [Martial Artists] and a Golem who learned from sparring. They were welcome guests to Pomles warriors, who were equally dismayed and enthralled by the idea of an opponent who might one day learn all they had and best them. If they had come in peace, they could have stayed months. But there was no time, and they might all be dead.

This? This was so wasteful. Orjin watched Nerrhavia approaching. Salii was making notes.

Just like the [Scouts] confirmed. General Vasraf? General Vasraf? Youre rightthey only levied general troops from most cities. Its quantity. A lot of quantity, and Im afraid to say that is General Thelican. Other officers of noteI have the same list, but I am adding a Prince Zenol to the register and his bodyguard. A Gold-rank team.

Oh no.

You know him?

Orjin saw Domehead fold his arms, copying the Strongest. Ksmvr searched the chariots that were leading the advance.

I do. He is a good adventurer. I do not wish to battle him.

This is not your war, Antinium Ksmvr. You do not have to join the Empress of Beasts.

Orjin pointed out quietly. Ksmvr glanced over his shoulder. Some of the people who had fled Tiqr had joined Pomles fighters, having trained to defend themselves. Many more were waiting inside Pomlebut over half had joined the fighting, young and old, when their Empress found them.

I would be too ashamed to face my team if I did not fight, Strongest of Pomle.

Then we fight.

Ksmvr nodded, and Domehead clenched one hand. He did something that the strange Humans from Earth had taught him and held out a huge fist. Without looking, Orjin and Ksmvr both extended an arm and tapped their knuckles against the chunk of steel.

Tiqr stands! With me! We will meet Nerrhavia in a great charge and smash them against Pomles cliffs!

The Empress of Beasts had a complicated strategy that involved exploiting Nerrhavias arrogance and their love of chariot charges against Pomles rock walls with the Monks of Sottheim. Orjin had told her she was welcome to it; Pomle would be here and advance if they saw an opening.

Nerrhavia was already chanting and blowing a panoply of horns. They hurt Orjins ears, especially because it was evening. Salii was hurrying around, cursing her heavy armor; shed been agitated all day. She ran back to him, panting from only walking about fifty feet.

Orjin! Orjin! More news!

If it is about Khelt, I do not care, Salii. Khelt is far from here, and we are about to do battle.

No! Its not Khelt! Although thats bad enough. I thought hed get Nerrhavia to back down with his warning buttheres more armies coming our way!

That made Orjin turn. So did Vasraf, who slid off his elephant with some urgency.

Dont tell meIllivere?

Salii groaned as everyone turned to look at Domehead. The Golem swiveled slowly.

only too happy to discuss Nerrhavias wishes, General Thelican. However, I must respectfully insist that we hold our ground. Domeheadthe Golem of Dellva, is a national treasure. It must not be destroyed.

Femithain was trying to reason with the [General] of Nerrhavias Fallento little avail. He had a choiceto either join the fighting at Pomle, or withdraw. No commander wanted a foreign army nearby.

However, Femithain was not willing to participate in another Tiqr. Especially not against Pomle. He thought it was foolhardy; even if Nerrhavia won, and they had the forces to do that, theyd have to fight their way into Pomle, and the entire oasis was a chokepoint and the [Martial Artists] were the greatest experts in the world at hand-to-hand fighting.

Worse, the Loquea Dree were in the air, and no Garuda that Nerrhavias Fallen or Illivere employed would take to the skies against them. Add in the Monks of Sottheim and Tiqrs own army seasoned by countless battles and Femithain was not half as confident as Thelican.

Armsmaster Dellic, pull back our ranks another five hundred feet. Make it clearvery clear that our approach is aimed at Pomle, not threatening Nerrhavias flanks.

That was a difficult order as Dellics expression made clear; Nerrhavias army was disciplined, but it was so large and spread out that it was all flanks. Femithain was sweating despite the fading sun as Thelican remonstrated with him.

I insist you withdraw or pledge your army to the attack! Crafter-Magus, I have had a deep respect for your forces. Your Golems would be invaluable in capturing the chokepoints into the oasis.

General Thelican of Nerrhavias Fallen was a blustery man who alternated between orders and a bluff wheedling that never quite went to actual requests, but half-hearted courtesy and vague promises he thought would work.

He was a jovial Stitch-man of the Silk, confident in his nations superiority in every sense of the word. It did not mean he was a terrible man or leader; he certainly could move a vast army, larger than any Yvlon Byres had ever seen in Izril, with fair ease. Even with underlings, Thelicans ego had led them here.

To Pomle. Across from her was Tiqrs army. And perhapsKsmvr.

Do you see him, Zenol?

Not yet. But I am certain he will spot us once Thelican orders the chariots forwards. I doubt hed be foolish enough to fight in a war.

Prince Zenol was riding with Yvlon in no less than Thelicans personal chariot. It was certainly large enough; the war-chariots of Nerrhavias Fallen were more like mobilemobile super-wagons. The only thing close to them in Yvlons experience was Magnolias carriage.

They were then the second-most dangerous vehicles shed ever encountered. If not as fast or as enchanted, they could be deadly sledgehammers that ran into poor infantry with nasty tricks like literal scythe-blades that popped out of the sides.

And the most dangerous switchblade of all was standing right next to Thelican. Yvlon felt responsible for this army, never mind that Yisame had assured her it would kill two birds with one stone. She did not want to attack Pomle, whose worst deed was apparently freeing some [Slaves].

But she needed to find Ksmvr. Yvlon turned to Zenol.

I hope so, Prince Zenol, but he has a bad influence. Pisces and Ceria rub off on him sometimes.

Well, just so long as he didnt learn too much from you, eh, Silver Killer? Or else hell be charging us alone with a piece of rusty metal.

Both adventurers turned as the cheerful voice interrupted them. On another war chariot stood three of Yvlons friends. Thexca, Mectail, and Relladen.

Vitte was notably absent, and Relladen, who was steering the chariot, hadnt spoken, but the Stitch-woman from the Empire of Scaied was applying a poison to her daggers. Mectail was just staring at his home of Pomle in silence, arms folded.

Thelican eyed the [Gladiators] who had come with YvlonMectail most of all. He had been pleased by their presence; they were famous, and he enjoyed their company.

However, Mectail was from Pomle. But the man was surrounded by Nerrhavias Silk warriors, and he had volunteered to fight his peopleif Thelican agreed to spare all he captured. The Great General had graciously agreed.

Yvlon Byres scowled at Thexca.

Im not a bad influence.

Whatever you say, Silver Killer. Whoa, dont bite my fingers off.

I didnt bite anyones

The Silver Killer of the Coliseum of Monarchs, standing with Prince Zenol of House Isphel and the Great General of Nerrhavias Fallen, was a well-known face in Nerrhavias Army by now. Friend to Queen Yisame. The bloody butcher of the arena. The Human who had eaten more fingers than any Crelerand slain an Adult Creler! With arms that could change shape!

Even the Silk warriors watched her carefully. But Thexca just grinned at Yvlon.

Well get your little friend out, Yvlon. Dont you worry. Time to show these bastards from Tiqr what Nerrhavias [Gladiators] can do, eh? If Im lucky, Ill have vengeance for Scaied!

She had been angry since hearing about how her people had been beaten in two running battles. Yvlon just shook her head as she looked anxiously at the lines of warriors.

Ksmvr takes risks. He thinks he needs to do that or well stop accepting him as a teammate. It wouldnt be out of the question for him to enter the battlefield and put himself at risk.

Sohes exactly like you.

Relladen muttered, and even Mectail smiled. Yvlon opened her mouth, and all three [Gladiators] stared pointedly at her. Zenol turned his head to hide a smile, and Yvlon looked around, then flushed crimson and muttered.

Justhelp me pull him out if he gets in danger?

Thexca just smiled as she tossed her head back, tying her hair into a ponytail.

If we have to Knight with half of Tiqr and Pomle, we will. Dont worrysurviving is what we do best. And if Vitte were brave enough to come withah, well. Well save your Antinium, Yvlon.

Thelican heard that and finally broke off from arguing with Femithain. He turned, and the [Great General] beamed at Yvlon and slapped her on the shoulder. He winced; her metal flesh was as tough as steel.

Not to worry, Adventurer Yvlon! As Her Majesty wills itwe will have your friend, this, er, Antinium, in Nerrhavias great embrace within the hour. Even if I must personally capture the Empress of Beaststhen we shall see what Khelt is about!

Everyone had heard about what was happening this morning. Yvlon, Zenol, the [Gladiators], even many of the chariot drivers looked north. They were a bit too far away, but if you were further north, you could see

You dont intend to heed the warning, General?

Prince Zenol and Thelican exchanged wary glances; Yvlon didnt know what Zenols ranking was, but she was fairly certain he had been elevated by Yisame to an uncertain position, and Thelican, a very important man, was wary of him. Thelican traced a curt bow.

Your Highness, I have been given an order by Queen Yisame herself. Should I then listen to anyone, even a foreign ruler?

Of course not. However, the capital has given no further orders

Thelican interrupted impatiently, but even he had glanced north and then at the scrying orb showing what was happening.

And thus it is my war to lead. I am well aware of the risks, but I am told Her Majesty has ordered two more great armies begin mustering. Well and so; if need be, she will have three, and no enemies to fear on this front. Even if we must follow Khelt

Here Thelicans bravado faded slightly. He looked at Yvlon, and she saw a trace of fear in his eyes, covered a second by bravado as he raised a hand and made a fist.

And face whatever comes next. I will do it without hyenas at my flanks. Since Illivere is not joining us, I have every intention of not letting this be a night battle. Signal the chariots to advance! I hope you will stay with me, Adventurer Yvlon? Tis a glorious sight, to command from chariot-back.

I

Yvlon was spared from making a decision as someone rode up to Thelican.

General! General! The army you sent to confront Savere is retreating towards our lines.

What?

Thelican roared in outrage. He whirled on the [Strategist].

Why? Has Savere attacked? If so, we will crush them after Pomle!

Zenol and Yvlon looked up in alarm. Savere had been pursuing the Empress of Beasts as well, but Thelican had sent a mere thousand to head off Savere and warn them that Nsiia was going to Nerrhavia. He outnumbered Savere by far, and while insulting, the thousand warriors were representative of Nerrhavia.

Even the piratical, criminal Siren of Savere that Yvlon had heard about had to know this was an act of war. However, Thelicans fury became confusion as the [Messenger] responded.

No! No, Generalthey never reached Savere! The Siren is still advancing and it seems our forces ran intoundead. Undead and escaped slaves! It must be those bandits! The ones who have been raiding the trade routes for the last month!

Yvlons head turned. She hadnt heard of thiswell, the raiders, yes, but undead?

Uhwhat?

Thelican was pulling at his epaulets while Yvlon and Zenol exchanged a quick glance.

It couldnt be

Ride! Ride!

Merr the Storm screamed as a sandstorm kicked over the Nerrhavian [Soldiers]. She pointed at the disant oasis, and the freed [Slaves] rode. Behind them, zombies, ghouls, skeletons, and even more advanced undead like Bone Horrors were still fighting with the terrified Stitch-folk.

Of all the times to run into Nerrhavias Fallen! They were so close! Her [Bandits] were fighting alongside freed [Slaves], and Merr turned to see one of them raising a butchers cleaver. A little half-Elf boy was refusing to go with Qshom, the Dullahan, and throwing knives as a [Rebel] roared.

Never chained! Not again! Fight for Pomle!

Bearig lashed around with the cleaver as the [Cook] rode at some scattering [Soldiers]. One raised a spear to stab at Bearig as Eloque shouted.

Bearig! Your left!

Rophir threw a dagger, and it bounced off the helmet. Bearig turned, but before the spear could stab, a bolt of black magic passed through the [Soldier]. Someone raced past the [Rebel Cook], brandishing a flaming rapier.

Pisces flicked his wrist, and a [Shatterbolt] made another breastplate explode. He pointed, and three more [Deathbolts] lanced his opponents.

The air was thick with death magic. The undead [Slavers] and Roshals guards from the caravans that Merr had raided with Pisces help were fighting Nerrhaviabut they were not nearly enough to stop that giant army.

Their only hope was Pomle. Pomle, which was under siege.

No help for it. They could only pray the [Martial Artists] took them in and that they survived. Merr could have used those strange Prophets folk or whatever they were called, but theyd gone their own way.

At least she had an enchanted sword. Merr the Storm roared as she pointed.

To Pomle!

There wasone other safe haven she could have taken. She glanced over her shoulder and saw a second army to their south. But she didnt trust it. The huge gold palanquin supported by a giant wave of water lazily rolling forwards contained a single woman whose gaze pierced Merrs back.

However, the [Bandit Lady of Storms] rode for Pomle. Nountil she had a good bargaining chip, she didnt feel like taking the one-million gold boy, Pisces, anywhere near the Siren of Savere. She just hoped Revine wasnt going to start lancing their back with water spells.

Thats Merr. What in the name of Krakens tits is she doing? Tell Nerrhavias Fallen thats not our force. Whered she get all those undead?

Revine was cursing a blue streak as she watched two disasters unfold. Not only was Nerrhavia skirmishing with a bunch of freed [Slaves] and undeadtheyd gotten to Pomle first.

General Thelican is refusing any direct communication spells, Siren

Revine pounded a hand on her armrest.

Tell them Nsiia is mine! And why is Femithain there?

She pointed at the army of Illivere, watching the [Slaves] make a break for Pomle. Thelican had seen it too, and Nerrhavia was swinging an entire wing of soldiers out to try and catch them. The sandstorm was slowing them, but it was a race.

So that wasPomle, Tiqr, Nerrhavias Fallen, Illivere, and Savere. Five armies! At least it was fairly obvious that they were all arrayed against Pomles fools and Tiqr. The Siren relaxed and pursed her lips.

Keep advancing. Get me Thelican or Merr and have one of those idiots explain what is going on. Dont advance too farbut get close. If we have to, well grab the Empress of Beasts and that Ant in the chaos.

Her people did what she commanded, reluctantly hurrying forwards, but the [Rogues] and [Bandits] of Savere did not like being outnumbered or the thought of fighting [Martial Artists], who, as they were well aware, lived to beat peoples faces in. They had a healthy respect for that.

As Revine gave orders, the rest of her army woke up or stretched with a great lack of discipline. Some were still riding wagons and snoozing before the fight. In fact, one dirty blonde headliterally dirtypopped up. A glowing ivory circle was the only notable thing about the half-Elfthat and her hand of bone.

Oh, and the fact that she was currently trying to swallow about a pound of iskender kebap and trying not to choke to death as she chewed.

Dish Revne shay shomething about undead?

She turned to one of her passengers, who covered her face. Omusc, the Mollusc Drowned Woman [Pillager], spat back.

Stop talking and swallow!

Ceria did and jumped off the wagon to find Revine as the Siren of Savere stood up.

Revine! Whats happening? Do you see Ksmvr? What about the undead?

Shut up! Im checkingthis is a precarious situation.

The Sirens army slowed as all the pieces fell into place. Five armies, all watching each other as the evening fell. Ceria shaded her eyes, trying to cast [Hawkeye] with the circlet completely untrained as she looked at the various armies camped about.

Undead?

Soldiers attacking! Undead too! Theyre coming for us, Empress!

Ksmvrs head rotated as Nsiia and Vasraf spotted an unexpected first wave. The Empress shaded her eyes.

That is not Nerrhavias fallen. Theyre fighting against Nerrhavias Fallen. Odd sandstormthats a Skill. Theyre no [Soldiers], either. Theres women and children there. Refugees?

Did someone say undead? Excuse me

No one listened as Ksmvr did a few hops with his Ring of Jumping. He was trying to see the undead, but even when he soared overheadhe didnt see more than a dust cloud and fighting. Nsiia hesitated.

If those are refugeesthey might be Tiqrs. Vasraflet them through!

Empress, they might be saboteurs! This might be Saveres doing oror someone has given Thelican an idea!

Vasraf protested, and Nsiia hesitated. Salii interrupted the two.

Theyll never make it unless you go out there. Againnot a [Strategist], but that looks like a bad idea. Nerrhavias closing in.

Indeed, a wing of chariots were racing to intercept the desperate people and undead. Nsiia hesitated. All they had to do was nothing, and she didnt sense they were her people. If she rescued them, theyd be caught out in the open. Ksmvr kept hopping.

Excuse me. What undead? What undead? Hello? Domehead, give me a boost. What undead?

Who are they, Thelican?

Yvlon was allowed to use the [General]s name, and Thelican actually broke off insulting the Siren via proxy as the two leaders growled at each other.

Ahno matter, Adventurer Byres. I gather theyre mostly [Bandits]. Theyve been raiding Roshals caravans on their way here. Merr the Storm, a [Bandit Lady] who escapedwe just arrested her! Damn the womanI will post her head on a pike before the day is done. On my honor! Somehow shes gotten undead too. Typical [Bandit] tricks

Yvlon moved to one side with Zenol. Undead?

There is no way that is a coincidence, Yvlon.

There is no way that can be true, Zenol! He was so far west

The [Prince] looked at Yvlon. He hefted his scimitar.

You wish to talk coincidence when I found you in my homeland, a continent away from the Village of the Dead?

That was a good point. Zenol whirled. Mectail, Thexca, and Relladen were tensing. Exchanging looks. Thexca was crouched, dagger hilts in her hand, ready to draw.

Mectail was just watching Yvlon. She glanced at him and made a sign theyd worked out in their brief stint as a team. Thexca groaned as Mectail nodded at Yvlon.

The plans changing. I hate improv

The [Gladiator] watched as Zenol seized the [General]s arm.

General Thelican, we may have found Yvlons comrade. Abort the chariot charge!

What? I cant do that! Theyre about to hit

Yvlon turned to the [Slaves], eyes growing wide. She stared into the dust cloud.

So thats the Empress of Beasts you want to kidnap towhat? Torture? Add to your servants and humiliate? And an independent nation about to be wiped out. And thats Illivere. Why are they here?

I dont know.

Revine watched Cerias expression, but the half-Elf was supremely unconcerned with the warjust watching. She was eying the place where the undead were fighting.

What is Savere doing?

Were going to get my prisoner and find your Antiniumand avoid making war with Nerrhavias Fallen. I have no idea why Illivere is here. Probably their precious Golem, in which case we ignore each other.

Ah. So you dont want to attack Nerrhavias Fallen?

The [Cryomancer] glanced at the Siren, and Revine bared her teeth. Her water magic spells were ready to go, but she shook her head.

Ido not wish to make them an outright enemy. I would sorely love to.

Ceria glanced over her shoulder. The army of Savere was just as ready to fight Nerrhavia as Pomle; they were eying the flank of Nerrhavia with a hatred that the Stitch-folk were matching. Bad blood. Ceria felt at the circlet she had on her head. She scratched a few times at her scalp; it got itchy. Then she put the relic on as the Siren looked at her.

I see. Could I persuade you to attack Nerrhavias Fallen?

Attackwhy?

The Siren broke off from her calculations and turned to Ceria. The [Cryomancer]s pale eyes were glowing as she stared into the dust cloud.

Because Im fairly certain Im going to insist.

Then both she and the Siren saw it. The two [Mages] needed little actual vision to detect magic. Both saw the bloom of death magic, and the Siren focused on Ceria. For the first time in a whileshe saw Ceria smile, broadly, genuinely.

Thats my teammate.

He had no idea about the other armies. Unlike the rest of his team, the young man had neither gotten near a [Message] spell nor communicated any other way.

He was too understandably wary of Roshal tracing his position. And all he had done, hed done for his friends.

Eloque the Lizardwoman, Qshom the Dullahan. Bearig the freed [Cook]. Rophir the half-Elf, and the dead like Cawe.

Merr the Storm saw her Skill clearing up and then a wall of chariots coming their way. She turned.

Stormbandits! Fight! Hold them off! Get to Pomle, Eloque!

She tried to rally her people as she turned her mount, but her people were still[Bandits]. They looked at Nerrhavias famous chariots and just kept running. Merr shouted at them desperately, searching for Bearig and Rophir. Then she saw the biggest fool on the battlefield emerge from the fighting and undead.

NonononoPisces! Necro boy, come back!

He didnt answer her. The [Necromancer] burst out of the sand with one goal in mind. And that was to defy Roshal to the last and all those who would help them.

Buy time. He was the only one who could. And though he didnt have access to ice-magic and couldnt summon a Frostmarrow Behemoth

The Nerrhavian [Charioteers] saw something strange coming at them and pointed. They turned on Pisces as he rode out of the sandstorm, in outrage and because he was heading towards them.

In a chariot.

It was far smaller than their war-chariots, and it was more of a bad oval made out of bones attached to some wheelsalso bone. Ohand it had two skeletal horses pulling it.

The Horns of Hammerads wild and dangerous method of entering the fray, minus the ice and customary bone bears. The [Necromancer]s brown hair was whipping in the wind as he waved his flaming rapier, shooting [Deathbolts] at the swerving chariots. They were all racing towards him.

Buy them time. He looked back at Merr as she shouted in horror.

Pisces!

She saw him facing ahead, eyes blazing. Alone. Like a foolish Gold-rank adventurer. Merr tried to turn her horse through the galloping [Slaves] heading for Pomle. Then she saw somethinga ripple in Nerrhavia Fallens lines.

Dead gods. Theyre attacking. Gogo!

Merr screamed, but she was wrong. The chariots were racing forwards, but no one had ordered the attack.

It was just thatthe largest and grandest one was shooting across the battlefield. The problem was? There was no General Thelican.

What the

Yvlon Byres kicked Thelican off the chariot. She missed Zenol as he jumped backwards, but the [Prince] saw her looking at the bone chariot racing over the battlefield. And that rider. The [Prince] saw Yvlon look at him andtripped.

He landed on Thelican as the [General], confused, tried to push himself up. Thelican and Zenol tangled.

Ambush! Enemy attack! Adventurer Byreswait. Whats happening?

Thelican got up, red-faced, sword drawn. Just in time to see Yvlon driving away with his chariot. She shouted, and the warhorses began to gallop forwards.

For the glory of Nerrhavias Fallen! Charge! Charge! Wait. Wheres General?

The [Charioteers] just saw Thelicans chariot move and assumed someone had given the order. They followed Yvlon with whoops and horns, but she was curving her path, forcing other chariots to halt. She was heading straight for the [Necromancer].

Stop her! Stop the attack! Were not in position yet

Thelican roared, but it was too late. His personal, customized chariot was faster than any other, and it caught up to the rest of Nerrhavias chariots on the western wing with ease. The surprised [Charioteers] saw Yvlon riding next to them. Thenthey realized something was off.

But before they could move, the [Armsmistress] released the reins. She pointed her metal arm at the wheels of the chariot racing next to her. The disbelieving Silk Warrior saw her metal arm elongateand a spike of silversteel shot out, snapped the wheel

The chariot flipped. Yvlon whirled, and the other chariot swerved awaythen her arm severed the wheels, and it spun out. A chariot racing behind it slammed into it with a roar of wood.

Stop her!

She was surrounded by chariots, and they were trying to ride into her, slow her or halt the horses. However, one of the drivers looked up as a cursing Stitch-woman and a second chariot screened Yvlons right. Relladen blocked Yvlons right flank, and Thexca tossed a handful of powder into the air.

Time for my villainous arc!

The sand mixed with stun dust and hot peppers hit the face of the first driver, who screamed, clawed at his eyes, and crashed his chariot. Mectail leapt past Yvlon, vaulted her chariot, and kicked another driver out of his seat. Then he was fighting, surrounded by surprised Silk warriors.

Mectail! Thexca! Relladen

Go!

They fell behind her as Yvlon saw the [Gladiators] buying her time. Killing no one, throwing up their handsMectail looked back at her and raised one fist. Thexca, cursing as she was knocked flat, looked up. She met Yvlons eyes and grinned as the Human woman looked back. Mouthing.

Go for it, Silver Killer

Then Yvlon was racing ahead of the others.

Straight at the howling [Necromancer], who was bracing himself for the fight. Pisces conjured a [Fireball] in one hand, aiming it at the lead chariot. He looked upand he and Yvlon passed each other. Both turned their heads, faces incredulous.

Yvlon?

Pisces!

They frantically tried to spin around as chariots rode at both of them. One of Nerrhavias chariots ran into Pisces skeletons and erased a dozen in the first clash of bonesand kept going, scything straight through their lines. It hit a Bone Horror, and the chariot stoppedand so did the Bone Horror for good as it practically exploded.

The [Charioteers] saw a furious pair of glowing flames emerge out of the dust storm. Then Ivery threw a rock into the face of the first [Charioteer] and cut the other down. The Skeleton Lord was riding an undead bear and charged into battle. A chariot ran him over and knocked him and his steed into pieces, but the furious Skeleton Lord just put himself back together.

Pisces!

Yvlon turned her head. It was him! Shed knownbut she just stared at him. He looked like hed seen a ghost.

Yv

Someone slashed as a chariot passed, and he ducked. A chariot hit his, and the explosion of bone made Yvlon shout as she whirled her chariot around. She saw his chariot overturned and Pisces on his hands and knees, shaking his head. He looked up and threw himself backwards with a [Duelist]s reflexes, dodging a spearbut the net caught him.

Tangled, Pisces fell to the ground, thrashing and screaming like a madman. Yvlon rode towards him, but a chariot slammed into hers, and she was nearly thrown flat. A horse went screaming into the chaos as someone severed the lead reins.

Get offPisces!

Yvlon locked blades with a Stitch-woman and shoved, but someone else passed by and kicked her so hard she slammed against the lip of the chariot. They were trying not to kill her, but Pisces!

Then the chariots turned as horns began to blow. They were tangled in a confusing melee, a mess of a charge as Nerrhavias Fallen followed Yvlon. And into that gap came Tiqr.

Tiqr! Tiqr, to me!

The Empress of Beasts and her Grand Elephants led the way as the tangled charioteers saw her army coming straight at them. One charged at herand ran straight into Domehead.

The enchanted wood splintered across the Golems front, and Domehead stumbled. He caught a flying Stitch-man before he became paste against Domeheads armor and tossed him down. Around him, the [Martial Artists] were joining the fighting too.

[Flying Kick]!

A Dullahan knocked a [Charioteer] off their ride and found herself amidst several surprised soldiers of Nerrhavia. They drew their bladesshe punched them off the chariot.

To the Empress of Beasts! Sottheim! Hold the line!

Vasraf roared and looked around for the Loquea Dree. They were in the air, but half of them were following a figure as he ran through the battlefield. Vasraf did a double-take.

Ksmvr! Ksmvr! What are you doing?

The [Skirmisher] was running towards the chariots, not Tiqrs push. His silver blades were raised. The chariots were coming at himuntil someone launched himself into the air.

[Aeriform Punch].

Orjin blew the first chariot off-course. He saw a Garuda dive, and Xil speared a chariot from above. The explosion of bodies and wood was matched only by a final expert.

Salthorn. The Selphid waited until the horses were almost on top of herthen she dodged around them and grabbed the front of the chariot.

Orjin didnt see what she did, but he did see the chariotflip. The passengers landed on the ground, then were dragged behind the panicked horses a dozen paces underneath the overturned chariot.

But where was Ksmvr going?

Pisces!

Yvlon found him on the ground, slashing at the enchanted net. She grabbed it and hauled him into the chariot.

Go! Go!

She had only one horse, but it kept racing forwards. Pisces fought clear of the net, and he and Yvlon looked at each other.

How are you here?

Duck!

Someone passed over them with an actual scythe slashing overhead, and both looked up.

Was that a Garuda? What was what?

It swept overhead and took out eight chariots just by holding its scythe at head-height. Yvlon saw more doing the same trick as the [Charioteers] ducked or died.

Dead gods! Loquea Dree!

What? Who? Yvlonyour arm!

He was staring at her other arm, which was regrown. Yvlon flexed her arm. Then she looked at Pisces.

What happened to

They hit a final chariot, and both went flying. Neither had a Skill, and Thelicans enchanted chariot took the force of the blow, but they were knocked off it again.

A dozen [Soldiers] of Nerrhavias Fallen were on top of them at once. One pointed a spear down at Yvlon.

General Thelican has placed you under arrest, Adventurer Byres.

Dont

Pisces was snarling and raising a finger, but neither he nor Yvlon had to move. Someone leapt into the [Soldiers], and Yvlon saw a flash ofsilver?

The [Soldiers] were veterans and swung their weapons up to impale the leaping fool in the air. Half a dozen Skills lanced the Antiniumwho vanished. The [Soldiers] wavered, and Ksmvrs real body dashed low under their guards.

[Silver Illusion: Whirlwind of Blades].

It was just as well they were Stitch-folk. Ksmvr delimbed half of them, and the screaming Stitch-warriors fell back. One raised a throwing dagger to toss at the Antinium, and Yvlon punched him off his feet.

Ksmvr?

Reporting for duty, Yvlon, Comrade Pisces! Oh. Your arm is regrown. I didnt know Humans could do that.

Ksmvr did a double-take and stared at Yvlons arm. He looked around wildly.

Wait. I have a sword for you, but Empress Nsiia has it. We must get to safetythis way!

Ksmvr?

Both were staring at him, but then the first attack spells began raining down around them. Yvlon, Pisces, and Ksmvr took cover in the safest placeThelicans overturned chariot as Pisces saw both mounts were gone. Ksmvr raised a blade to shield his facethen frowned as everyone took cover.

Hm? Frost magic?

Needles of ice were raining down across the battlefield. Pisces stopped gazing at Ksmvr and turned his head. A little floating butterfly made of magic and light appeared and landed on his shoulder. He slowly reached for it.

Springwalker?

Omusc was watching the chaos with the appreciation of someone not in that mix. Tiqr and Pomle had charged Nerrhavia when they launched their mistake of an offensive. Now it was chaosundead and those [Bandits] with Merr fighting for Pomle.

It all looked good to her, in shortright until someone rode down their lines.

Hey! Were attacking Nerrhavias Fallen! Get ready!

The [Bandits] looked at each other. Then at the messenger.

Were doing what?

Theyre unguarded! Lets go! Sneak attack, you bastards! Go, go!

The [Bandits] hesitated, but they looked up at the half-Elf riding down the line and then at the Siren. She was the Sirens ally. Then they saw Revines spell, the shower of icy needles falling across the battlefield.

The other half of the army was already moving towards Nerrhavia as the Stitch-folk army turned on them. Omusc squinted at Revine. The Siren hadnt moved, but she wouldnt exactly charge into battle herself. She sat on her palanquin of water andOmusc hesitated. Then turned dead pale on her Human half and looked at Ceria.

Savere charged Nerrhavia from the rear and side as the Sirens palanquin stood there. Only the ones close to it noticed something wasoff. They did a double-take and stopped as they realized something.

There was a lot of water holding Revine up, better than any mortal servants. It was the weapon she could draw from for ammunition, a shield, drown her foeswater was adaptable. Perfectly suited to almost any climate and temperature if you brought enough.

It was justwater. The same amount.

But frozen. And indeed, the Siren was staring out of a frosted bubble of ice, almost invisible. Her look of surprise and shock was slowly, slowly turning to fury.

The half-Elf winked at Omusc as she touched the magical circlet that could cast different spells. She jumped off her horse as the giant [Ice Wall] shed frozen Revine in exploded and the Siren began screaming.

But it was too late. Ceria went running past the surprised [Bandits], past Omusc and the others in one of the greatest double-crosses in Saveres history. She leapt forwardsand a floor of ice spread across the battlefield.

[Slippery Ice]whoawhoaaaaaa

She windmilled her arms and shot past the fighting soldiers, ducking the first lance of water. The [Cryomancer] skated into the battlefield.

The Nerrhavian [Charioteers] were reforming for another charge, and their deadly rampage ran straight across Cerias path. They targeted the half-Elf, rightly connecting her with the dangerous ice-rain. One chariot shot towards her, engulfed in magical flamesand hit the ice ramp she summoned.

It vaulted over the half-Elf, caught eight seconds of air-time, and crashed to the ground. Another chariot swerved as another wall of ice ran it in front of the others.

A third just slammed into an [Ice Wall]. A laughing half-Elf raced past the others as their wheels skidded on the ice. She was heading straight for a magical chariot being dragged along by two skeleton horses. And the three riders saw her.

There she is! Turn left! Turn left!

Pisces tried to steer left, and they ran over a row of [Bandits]. Oralmost did. The [Bandits] ran screaming, and the chariot did a U-turn.

Is that Captain Ceria? What a happy coincidarrow!

Ksmvr deflected an arrow out of the air. Yvlon raised both her arms, and a giant shield appeared, the metal of both arms fusing together. Pisces and Ksmvr stared at it.

How did you do that?

I learned how! Im a [Gladiator]!

That thing tore your arms off!

Pisces pointed at Yvlons other arm. She screamed back.

It healed! Where have you been?

What? Ive been a [Slave]Ceria!

The half-Elf slid up a ramp, into the airand missed the chariot. They did another U-turn, and Ceria grabbed Ksmvrs hand.

Youre alive! What are you doing, you idiots?

Ceria?

She was laughing as Yvlon hauled her into place. Pisces whirled the chariot.

Wheres Eloque? Merr?

Who?

Ksmvr pointed.

There! Empress Nsiia! She has Yvlons sword!

My what? Ceria, what are you wearing?

Both Pisces and Ksmvr turned to stare at the glowing circlet on Cerias head. Was that? Ceria grinned.

Its a relic! Wait! Watch out for the

They hit one of her ice ramps and went flying. Yvlon and Pisces hung on, as did Ksmvr, but Ceria nearly went flying. But Ksmvr kicked off and tossed her back into the chariot.

He landed in a whirlwind of blades, surrounded by soldiers.

Ksmvr!

The Horns turned back to look at him, but the flash of silver was blinding. Ksmvr was holding off six, eight

[Impact Punch]!

Yvlons fist shot out and floored a [Vanguard] charging Ksmvr as he leapt up and landed in the wagon. Ceria gaped at Ksmvr.

How did youyou leveled up!

Ksmvr nodded proudly.

I am now a credit to the team. I would like to report my new class is only [Brave Skirmisher], but I have inherited the [Silver Illusion] sword school and

Would you two catch up later!? Were surrounded!

Pisces screamed at the others. He turned to Ceria; they were deep in Nerrhavias lines, and Yvlon or notthe soldiers were definitely not on their side. They were trying to board the chariot, and Ksmvr began defending their rear. Pisces reached out.

Ceria! Link!

Got it! [Animate Frostmarrow Behemoth]!

The half-Elf raised her hands, and Yvlon, Pisces, and Ksmvr turned to look at her. Her circlet shone like a lighthouse for a second

Then the first paw of a Frostmarrow Behemoth punched out of the earth. Ceria wiped sweat from her brow as Pisces froze.

Im out of the circlets mana. Lets do another! Pisces!

She grabbed his hand. The [Necromancer] stuttered at her.

How didwh-

But then he focused. And pointed.

There! Not here! There

Cerias eyes narrowed, and Yvlon did a double-take as her arm extended, grabbed someone by the throat, and retracted so she could punch them with her other hand.

What is that? Did you make a Skeleton Lord?

She recognized the superior undead fighting around a group of strange people. A Lizardwoman, a half-Elf, a few Stitch-people, a Dullahan

Then a second Frostmarrow Behemoth emerged from the ground.

Femithain couldnt believe his eyes. Savere was attacking Nerrhavia! Was that linked magic he was sensing? Had the Siren lost her mind?

Then he saw the two Frostmarrow Behemoths attacking Nerrhavias Fallen. And in the middle of it allthere was Domehead.

He was being charged by chariots, fighting Nerrhavia as they scored his armor with dozens of blades. Following Nsiia.

Someone fired one of the ballistae Nerrhavia had brought, and Domehead blocked it to a cheer from Illiveres forces.

The glowing comet from one of the magic-throwers hit him and knocked him down. Femithain didnt remember what happened after that. One second he was watchingthe next?

Protect Domehead!

Illivere was attacking Nerrhavias other flank. They passed by terrified freed [Slaves]and the Crafter-Magus found himself face-to-face with a furious woman on a palanquin. The Siren aimed her wand at his two bodyguard Golems and froze.

Crafter-Magus? Get out of my way!

Siren?

He lifted his own staff defensively, but a trumpeting call broke through the fighting. Both turned, and someone on an elephant called out.

Siren of Savere. I hear youve been looking for me.

Oh f

Revine whirled, and Nsiia, the Empress of Beasts, charged her. The first impact tossed Revine from her palanquin into the chaos. Nsiia and Femithain locked gazes, and the Crafter-Magus raised his staff.

Empress of Beasts!

Ah, and here came the last one. General Thelican had a backup chariot and was riding at her. The Empress turned, cursing, as the [General] rode at her with his escort. He and his bodyguard were clashing with Vasraf, and Thelican roared around.

Take them all down! All of them! Move, you idiots!

He whirled to his [Strategist], but the giant fool with dark skin didnt even move. He was the most impressive [Strategist] that Thelican had ever seen, mind you. A worthy backup since Zenol and Yvlon Byres hadwait a second.

Who are you?

General Thelican stared at the stranger, who had neither weapons nor actual armor. And where had his bodyguard gone? His chariot was empty. For answer, Orjin adjusted his posture as the [General] turned pale.

The Strongest of Pomle.

Eloque was galloping towards Pomles lines in a mortal terror. It was a battle between armies, and she didnt know where Pisces had gone. Was that him on the chariot being pulled by bears? Was thathis team?

Please! Were not [Soldiers]! Dont attack!

The ex-[Slaves] were heading for the armored warriors, who raised their weapons at the sight of them. Merr hesitated as a line of strange fighters appeared.

Oh shitback it up! Back it up!

But the Monks of Sottheim didnt attack. They took one look at the desperate children, civilians, and the [Abbot], Shurein, lifted a hand.

Let them through. Advance and support the Empress of Beasts.

[Monks] made two lines and marched past the [Slaves] into the fighting. Eloque almost fainted in relief. Qshom actually did, lying on his back, his head rolling off his shoulders.

Bearig was following them, a gash on his shoulder and armor, but Merr had gotten him and Rophir here. That just left

Pisces! Merr, where is he?

For answer, the [Bandit Lady] just pointed.

With his team.

She was smiling. Everyone looked at a single chariot screaming around the battlefield. Literally screaming as four figures clung to it. Two giant Frostmarrow Behemoths were rampaging around them, and the chariot was hurtling around, dodging enemy chariots, running through the ranks of one of Chandrars greatest nations.

Occupying the entire battlefield.

Ceria Springwalker! You treacherous!

Pisces ducked the spray of water. It nearly blasted Yvlon off the chariot. Only her armor saved her. Ksmvr dragged her up.

Who is that, Ceria?

The Siren of Savere! Go, goshell drown us! I may have double-crossed her!

You what?

Ksmvr lifted his head, spotted something, and waved his hands.

Ah, there is Nsiia. Nsiia! I need the sword back! I have found YvlonNsiia?

The Empress whirled, having leapt off her elephant to chase the Siren. Yvlon, Pisces, and Ceria locked onto the blade she held.

Thats ours!

They chorused as one. But then a howling [General] fleeing a [Martial Artist] pointed at her.

Yvlon Byres! Is this how you repay the generosity of Queen Yargh!

Orjin kicked him into a line of Saveres [Bandits]. Everyone turned to Yvlon. Ksmvrs mandibles opened as wide as theyd go.

Queen Yvlon?

Queen Yisame. Wheres Zenol? Hes somewhere around here!

She whirled around, and Pisces found the [Prince] fighting with his team.

There! Is he on our side?

No!

Yes!

Whose side are we on?

The four Gold-rank adventurers looked at each other. Ceria lifted a finger.

Probably not Savere, but we can patch things up.

Nerrhavias Fallen?

No. Tiqr is on our side. And Pomle.

Ksmvr and Yvlon looked at each other, but Pisces pointed.

There! Merr is leading the freed [Slaves]! Were fighting with them! To Pomle!

That put them againstNerrhavia. Everyone turned to Yvlon, and she hesitated only a second.

Go, go!

She grabbed the reins as Ksmvr began cutting arrows out of the air. Pisces took the left side, firing [Deathbolts], Ceria the right, with [Ice Spikes].

And thenin the middle of screaming at each other, calling out dangerthey looked back. The Horns of Hammerad gazed at the others, wide-eyed, in the middle of a crisisbut there they were.

Same as ever.

Changed.

We found each other. Even so.

Then they were facing the waving [Bandit Lady], the desperate battle around Pomle as Nerrhavias Fallen struggled to withdraw and Savere and Illivere began to fall back, one with a Golem in tow. Pisces was waving at Merr.

We have to protect them from Roshal! We have to defeat Nerrhavias Fallen.

He turned to the others, and Yvlon shook her head.

NoI need to talk to Yisame. We might be able to get them to withdraw.

She wasnt sure how likely that was, but Ceria took one look at the screaming [Siren] and hesitated.

I, uhI dont think Revines going to forgive me.

Ksmvr lifted all three arms.

And I would like my sword back! I wish to clarify, I only loaned it to Empress Nsiia. I believe we are owed interest.

Every eye was on them, from the horrified courts of Nerrhavias Fallen to secret fans of the team to the enraged Roshal [Slavers] to Pisces comrades. Even Savere had to admire Ceria as they shot towards the waiting [Martial Artists].

Now theres a Gold-rank team. Crazy as loons.

Salii muttered as the stolen chariot screamed towards their lines. Then she looked up.

Ancestors.

Yvlon! Stop! Dont do this!

Prince Zenol was racing after Yvlon. She could not take up arms with Tiqr! Everything else could be excused, no matter how angry Thelican was, but for her sakeQueen Yisames

He had only one shot. The [Prince] raced clear of the fighting, ignoring Tiqrs soldiers coming for him. He tensed

And [Like a Lion, He Leapt]. Scimitar blazing with magic.

The four adventurers saw him. One of them turned and saw the [Prince] coming in what could only be described as a hostile maneuver. The Antinium whirled with two shining bladesand jumped.

His team turned to follow him, and every head craned up as Zenol and Ksmvr locked gazes. The [Prince] hesitated in that moment.

Was he going to? Ksmvr had joined Tiqr. The Antinium was staring at him. They were on different sides.

But they had fought together. Zenols blade felt like it was wavering in his hands. The Antiniums swords flashed uncertainly. They were on a collision course, and Zenol uttered the only prayer he knew.

Nerrhavias bones guide me

He raised the sword as Ksmvrs blades flashed. A boot kicked Zenol out of the air.

What

The [Prince] fell, shouting, as Ksmvr twisted too late. He tried to cut at the figure on the carpet, but the masked rider just laughed and caught the blade. The other Revenant piloting the flying carpet watched Zenol fall.

Got one. Couteiwhere are our targets?

Below! Strike whatever armies they are! In the name of Khelt!

Ksmvr, struggling in the impossibly strong grip, stared as undead Revenants, three, each on a flying carpet, dove through the air. The last, a passenger, casually put Ksmvr in a headlock.

Dont fight, strange whatever-you-are! By Eternal Kheltstand aside or die!

Of course, the bewildered forces had no idea who the undead were. Indeed, the sight of undead on carpets? Every bow went up in Nerrhavias army below.

That was their mistake. One rider peeled off instantly. The Scourgeriders of Emrist swept down. One targeted the chariot and three adventurers. The other two blasted over the [Soldiers]. One raised a bag.

[Create Cloud: Paralysis Dust]!

A cloud of yellow particles swept behind the undead in its wake. The other was less merciful.

[Fireball]. [Fireball]. [Fireball]. [Fireball]. [Fireball]. [Fireball]. [Fireball]

The carpet-riding [Mage] saw a Loquea Dree Garuda coming at her, and the undead tilted the carpet, clinging to it as it went vertical, and dodged Leka Thri as the Garuda whirled his scythe. Then they whirled, and the Horns of Hammerad looked up.

Ksm

Yvlon was first. Coutei clotheslined the armored woman with one arm, a maneuver that would break any arm but his, and he was holding both Yvlon and Ksmvr. Pisces tried to dodgehe flashedthen froze as the [Mage] caught him.

[Suppression Field]. Three!

Uh

Ceria looked at her team, then did a hopand the last carpet caught her, and the rider nodded in approval. The four adventurers realized a few things.

Firstly, undead were kidnapping them on flying carpets.

Secondly, they werent dead. The undead were shouting about Khelt and Fetohep of Khelt.

Thirdly? They were heading away from the battlefield.

No! Ksmvr!

Nsiia howled upwards, and Ksmvr struggled in the grip of the impossibly strong undead.

My sword! Give meput me down, please!

Revenants! Theyre Revenants!

Yvlon stared in horror at the other undead. Ceria just looked around and wiped at her brow.

Whew. What a strange

Eloque! Merr! Bearig! Qshom!

Pisces nearly threw himself off his carpet, and the rider had to wrestle with him. The [Necromancer] was shouting.

Put me down! Put me

Hes going to crash the carpet!

I have him.

Coutei leapt from carpet to carpet and restrained Pisces, but the [Necromancer] fought. He tried to cast magic, and the Djinni wrenched his finger away.

Northwards, cousins! The Scourgeriders are assaulting Actelios Salash! We have a ship to catch!

He roared, but Pisces was still fighting. They were passing over Pomle, and he was screaming down.

Eloque! Put me down!

Fetohep of Khelt has summoned you! We are taking you to Izril!

Nowhat? Take them!

Pisces pointed down, but the Scourgeriders saw only chaos below. The Revenants shook their heads. Pisces caught sight of a Lizardwoman staring up at him.

Pisces!

Ceria thought she heard his name being called. She saw Pisces fighting helplessly againstshe narrowed her eyes. That wasnt an undead.

Why are we being taken? Put us down, please. We are a team. I have left a Relic-class weapon behind.

Ksmvr tapped the other Revenants shoulder, and Yvlon balled a fist. But the [Mage] just aimed a wand at her, and the Horns hesitated. Only Pisces refused to stop.

I promised to protect them! Let me go!

Pisces!

Merr the Storm was racing after them on the ground, but she couldnt keep up. Stillthe riders looked at each other and flew lower.

Merr! Im going toleave me behind!

Pisces? Hey, well all stay! I dont know why you want us, but

Ceria looked at him, but the Revenants were adamant. And Merr? She shouted.

Pisces! Just go! Get out of here before Roshal fucking eats you, gold-boy! Go!

Not without you.

Pisces was ready to jump off the carpet; he could easily damn all the riders if he kept fighting. Coutei had him restrained, but the [Necromancer] was firing off increasingly dangerous spells. At last, the Djinni snapped.

Mighty Fetohepdesires you! We are taking you to Izril, you fools! He needs you to rescue Erin Solstice! Or protect her! Do not make me knock you all out!

The Horns of Hammerad stopped. Merr the Storm just blinked as she saw Pisces eyes go wide. He looked at the Djinni, and Coutei grinned.

A friend, eh?

Merr

Pisces looked back at her, but the fight had gone out of him. The Bandit Lady shouted.

Ill keepsafe! Justwhen youluck!

Pisces looked down at her, but then he gazed around. He hesitated and then collapsed.

Erin?

Away they flew from the battlefield. Leaving friends, enemies, all behind in a sudden flight. Up, upCeria turned green and began throwing up until they leveled out. Ksmvrs mandibles opened wide with delight as they flew up towards the cloudsthen a stricken look crossed his face.

Wait. My sword! My sword! I have left it behind! And Spitty. Wait, we can leave him. Maybe. But not Yinah! Or Domehead!

He turned, but they were already far, far away. Pisces sat, pale-faced. Yet he had a hand to somethinga scar around his neckand he kept hesitating.

Ivery! Eloque and Bearig, Rophir, Merr, Qshom

Yvlon looked down.

Prince Zenol.

Ceria wiped at her mouth. She looked around.

UhOmusc, I guess. Im pretty good.

They wavered there. They were leaving so much behindand heading a continent away. They could turn back. Try, at least. The Revenants and the strange one, Coutei, watched them, and the Horns looked at each other.

Then, as night fellthey heard it. Each adventurer suddenly looked up, and the Revenants themselves turned their heads. Couteis voice boomed.

Wait. Do you hear that?

I hear it.

A horn began to echo across the sky. Cerias head turned, and her ears perked up. Yvlon felt at her own ears, and Pisces raised his head and gazed northwards. Ksmvr murmured.

This isnot possible. But I believe

Erin?

Ceria breathed. Her eyes stung, and the Horns of Hammerad looked at each other. Then, as one, they stopped. They sat on the carpets as they flew northwards.

The end of Emrists Scourgeriders. The end of Khelt, perhaps. My friendsI will leave you after this.

Coutei the Djinni looked up, and he did weep. For the horn. For reawakening.

For the end of things.

That was how the Horns of Hammerad caught up with Sand at Sea. They landed as Herdmistress Geraeri pointed them out, and Alked Fellbow and Frieke of Kheltjust accepted this as another layer of the mystery.

Who are they?

A [Knight] standing aboard the ship as it left the sand and headed into waters looked suspiciously at the adventurers. Another nearly drew their blade when they saw Ksmvr. Pisces walked onto the deck, and Jecaina and her father turned when they saw the rapier and the walk.

Gold-rank adventurers. I thought they were on Izril.

Alked murmured. He saw a half-Elf totter to a railing and immediately begin throwing up again. It turned out Ceria got carpet-sick. Especially when a Revenant demonstrated how to do a loop-de-loop on a carpet with no seatbelts. Or anything to hold onto but the carpet.

Wherewhat is this ship? Its almost as grand as the Reinharts capital ship, the Velistrane.

Yvlon looked around in awe as Pisces sat down hard on the decking, staring at all the powerful undead. He gazed up at a floating [Vizir] and flinched as Hecrelunn snorted.

More chaff.

You mean the Velistrane? Is that damn ship still kicking?

The [Captain] of Sand at Sea scowled at Yvlon, and she stared at the Revenant. Ceria, wiping her mouth, looked at someone who had been splattered a bit by her puke and was glaring at her. She eyed a man covered in bandages.

Whos bandages over there? What is going on?

Mfh fa rng f dthtion.

The bandaged figure informed her. Ceria looked blankly at him and then at Orthenon as the [Steward] offered him a handkerchief.

It was King Fetohep himself who met the Horns of Hammerad. Each of them gazed at him in surprise. They had never met him, but Pisces bowed to him unexpectedly.

Your Majesty of Khelt?

Yes. It seems the Scourgeriders of Emrist executed my will too well. For that, you have my apologies. Howeverno matter what you have left behind, my oath to Erin Solstice was such that I had to collect you. We go to Izril to aid her. And to fight to protect another child I think you know.

Fetohep of Khelt stood there as the Horns exchanged looks. Ceria wiped her mouth and eyed the King of Destruction as Raelt of Jecrass limped over. Pisces did a double-take as he saw the golden bell and heard it chime. Herdmistress Geraeri nearly backed off the deck from Ksmvr of Chandrar, who was staring at Alked Fellbow. Yvlon Byres saw one of the undead sailors give her a wink.

Nice arms.

All of them looked back at the sands of Chandrar and realized they were speeding north, leading a fleet of the undead. Khelts warriors. Heading north.

Straight to Izril.

As the last strains of that glorious call faded, Erin Solstice saw Fetohep sail north. She even saw the ship he was standing on faintly, but no one else.

The Horns? Ceria? Ksmvr? Pisces? Yvlon?

She didnt see them, but she was smiling. Then she looked at the four of the six and the army coming towards her. Erin waved her pan at them.

Okay. Okay. Come and get it. Especially the ugly ones. Like you. And you.

She pointed at the wise man and the forgotten thing. Emerrhain gazed at the horrors from beyond and then at Erin Solstice. The ghosts of Chandrar stood ready. But Erin Solstice just waited. She knew it now.

They were not alone. Then she saw it. As if someone had suddenly turned on a light switch, as if she had suddenly noticed something that had been there all along but never been important until now, Erin Solstice looked up and beheldghosts.

Across Chandrars lands, across sea, as if her gaze had suddenly zoomed across that vast distance and rendered it meaningless, she saw Baleros. The continent consumed by war. One of the last refuges of ghosts.

Erin saw the Drathian empire standing, closest to the old foes they had warded so long against, rising to arms. Terandrian [Kings] and [Queens] hearing the sound and rallying for a last stand. Answering the call to arms.

But Baleros? Erin Solstice watched as the ghost of every Dragon, young and old, took wing. Only a few like Yderigrisel had refused to join their kin where they gathered in death, even before the six had begun preying on them.

Erin had never asked why. Nor, in hindsight, had she seen many ghosts, from Fraerlings to the ones who had surely existed long ago. She assumed Baleros was a subjective, random decision. Now, Erin Solstice saw a ghost, many ghosts, rising and following the Dragons as they swept up in a huge spiral, abandoning Baleros to fight the enemy.

Many ghosts, but one led them all. One that made Erin squintbut she had no eyes to be deceived, and there was nothing else to confuse her. So Erin just murmured as the [Witches], rulers of Chandrar, Djinni, Giants, Wyrm, mortals and immortals alike, gasped in shock and disbelief.

Oh. So thats where they were.

The ghost of the Elf pointed a finger at Erin Solstice and then turned. She led the last charge of Baleros as more Elves followed her. Elves and Halflings and Giants, the Naga and Lizardfolk of Baleros and more. Even Norechl hesitated as the army of Baleros swept outwardsbut Erin saw a small group detach itself and slowly head her way.

They were dead too, and an entire species. Erin had never met even their descendants, nor did she have much reference to guess what they should look like. But one look and she saw eighteen, an entire species, walking towards her and laughing.

Gnomes.

Authors Note: This is the final arc of Volume 8.

I think you can tell.

A few things. I will not be streaming any chapters this month. I normally do and write as live as live can be, but I will not be doing that and even attempt to write an advance to give myself a lead time before publishing. I wouldnt normally do this, but Im willing to delay a chapters publishing.

Because it matters. Because, even if I dont get an editor, I need to make sure this is done right. It might not be done in one month exactly; if I need to take more time for any one chapter I will, and Ill let you know but Im going to give it my best shot.

Ive even been counting dreams-to-nightmares and Ive had three out of the last seven days. Better than expected, actually. I expected nightmares every day. I get them when Im worried a chapter wont be good, when it matters.

Weirdly, two of the three dreams have been scenarios where Im fighting the Flood from Halo, the video game. I havent played it in a while, and nor do I get to be a super-soldier. Its just meand the worldinfested by an alien race of parasitic supermonsters. Im sure theres nothing prophetic or ironic about that dream.

They cleared up after this chapter. It is far from perfect and I dont think I did Fetoheps ride complete justice. However, I was happy enough with it to publish it if youre seeing this. Its taken us a long time to get here. At least. Well. At last well get to see what happens next. Prepare yourself for an interesting month.

Seamwalker and Silence by /illudanajohnsCommission /OmNDuK8.jpg

The Wandering Inn on r/place by fans! Go find it here!

The Faeblade by Enuryn the /Enuryn_Nat