Chapter 30: I despise that.

Chapter 30: I despise that.

"Any suggestions on what I should pack?"

"An enchanted dagger, boss. Just in case."

"I always have one. Anything else?" Updated from novelb(i)n.c(o)m

"That chain thing."

"Hmmm. Yeah. Sounds like a good idea."

"Sorcerer supplies?"

"I'm not sure. That's why I'm asking you."

"No, I mean, will you be bringing supplies for spells?"

"Oh. I suppose so."

So I gathered these items, tossed in some busberries in case I needed sleep, some Tivn leaves in case I needed to stay awake, then reached out to connect with Drevolan. It took some time since I didn't know him very well, but eventually, we were connected.

"I'll be prepared in an hour," I informed him.

"That will work," he responded. "Where shall we rendezvous?"

I pondered over this, then informed him, "There's this inn named Verenek's in South Avandryl."

* * * *

Every time I step into a cobbler's shop, I can't help but wonder how anyone's shoes turn out alright. That is, I've never encountered a cobbler's workshop that wasn't as dark as Nyxara's underworld, nor a cobbler who didn't squint as though he were partially sightless.

"Alright."

As we stepped out, I queried, "You'll be doing the talking, correct?"

"No," he replied. "That's your job."

* * * *

"How long will you be away, Viktor?"

"I'm not sure, Thorne. You're going to have to manage things as best you can. If I'm fortunate, I'll return in three or four days. If not, well, I won't be returning at all."

He gnawed on his lip, a habit I believe he adopted from me. "I hope you're gaining something out of this."

"Sure," I remarked. "I hope so too."

"Well, best of luck."

"Thanks."

Opal and I made our way to Verenek's. The host recognized me immediately and managed to suppress a frown. However, when Drevolan stepped in, I noticed he drew back his lips, almost snarling. I grinned and said, "Table for two, please. We'll have the dead bodies and seaweed. I'm sure you're still adept at serving them."

Indeed, he was, and I was gratified that Drevolan enjoyed the Venorium peach brandy, albeit a little disheartened that he was already familiar with it and even addressed it by its Venorium moniker. Nonetheless, he hadn't known about Verenek's prior. I think he took pleasure in being the sole Imperion patron in the establishment, too. I recalled encountering Liora there (by chance? Unlikely!) and wondered how the regulars would react to frequent Imperion visitors, and what kind of reputation I'd earn. Regardless, Drevolan seemed to relish the experience more than Verenek.

Tough luck.

We exited the door after having a couple of drinks each. Then Drevolan halted. I stood beside him. He closed his eyes, remained motionless, and then nodded at me. I steadied myself, and suddenly South Avandryl was no more. I anticipated feeling nauseous, and unfortunately, I was right.

I despise that.