Book 7: Chapter 59

Book 7: Chapter 59

They had four hours, in the night, before they were found again. Two precious hours, snatched by the transformation, and then two more after that.

They had made slower progress as horses, ironically. They had to act likehorses. And they were slow because Ryoka threw up about fifty times over the course of the first hour before her mind adjusted to four hooves and an equines perspective. And horses couldnt vomit so it was fifty miserable failed attempts.

Shapeshifting was not easy. Oh, Ryoka would have a lot to think of after this. About being a horse, about the possibilities of such potions and spells. If she lived. If Saliss lived.

Two more hours before the [Scrying] spells located them. It was, Ryoka learned from Saliss and Maviola, a very annoying type of spell to manage. Scrying spells in Ryokas mind were as simple as panning an aerial shot to follow something.

In reality, the problem with a [Scrying] spell not bound to a personand no one could scry the three directlywas that you had to move it in every axis. Up, down, left, righteven managing the coordinate system meant an entire class of [Diviner], [Seer], [Scrier], had to manage one spell.

And they had lost the three. Sofor four hours, under darkness, they ran. They did not stop to rest. They did not sleep. But nor did they sprint.

They were husbanding their strength for when they were found. Odd word. Husbanding. Why not wifeing? Aside from how stupid that sounded.

Ryoka knew she should have been thinking of the run. The long ways yet to go, even as Saliss potions sped them and kept them moving fast. She pedaled, stowing the bike for uphill climbs and places where the terrain didnt fit. Running alongside the Drake and the horse carrying Maviola El.

But all that filled her mind were silly questions like the etymology of the word husbanding. Anything, it seemed, to distract her from reality.

The sun would rise before they reached House Veltras. It was inevitable at the speed they were moving. A Potion of Haste practically doubled their speed. Tripled it, in some ways. They needed neither to rest nor eat with potions.

But it was a long run. And when the sun rose, theyd be easier to spot. The Guild of Assassins and Circle of Thorns was after them.

They had the cure.

They found the three after four hours. But between then. The end of her run, what happened next, and the time she had left Invrisilthat brief span when they had been able to relax just a hair and talk instead of watch for Belavierrs hexes, enemy [Assassins]

She would not forget or trade that time away.

-

Oh. I leveled up.

Ryoka heard a slight gasp as she rode ahead, scanning for potholes or rocks in the dark. She jerked up. She had trailed off from their last conversation. Saliss twisted as he ran. The two saw Maviola El open her eyes. They looked at each other, the three with the cure.

Then Saliss threw an empty potion bottle at Maviola. Ryoka swore and tossed some sand at the [Lady]. She very nearly moved her bike over to try and swat at Maviola El.

I knew it! You were dozing on that horse! While we were running all damn night

I was just napping for a second! Respect your elders and betters, brat!

Maviola swatted back with her inactive Kaalblade. Saliss beaned her with an empty vial and Maviola loosed a stream of curses.

Ive been runningfor hours. I dont run! I make potions! Get off the horse! Its my turn!

It had been almost four hours since theyd lost Wistrams eyes and the Guild after Belavierrs needle attack. The three had been on the alert, but Saliss had the scrying orb tuned to the Wistram News Networka secured line so they couldnt reverse-hack his artifactand they hadnt found the three. Yet.

the search continues. But I feel strongly that if they had been found, we would know. Isnt that right, Sir Relz?

Exactly, Drassi.Letsreplay the dramatic footage from this evening. Againwe are receiving countless impressions, first-hand accounts from people who were there. The Black Tide, invading Invrisil

I dont know if invading is the right word. They were clearly helping fight the Guild.

Drassithe Antinium? Really?

I dont think you know what youre talking about, Sir Relz. One of us lives in Liscor. And let me tell you

The orb shut off. They still had time. Ryoka looked up at Maviola. The [Lady Firestarter]s eyes were shining. Orwas she still a [Lady Firestarter]?

Your class changed.

It wasnt a question. Maviola Els eyes sparkled.

I have reached my Time of Grandeur. I did not think I would. And now? How this world likes to play tricks! But I have never been more a [Lady] than now.

Time of?

A name the nobility of Izril and Terandria came up with. It just means Level 50. They like to call everything stupid names.

Saliss whispered to Ryoka. The City Runner nodded. Maviola scowled at them.

It is the level at which everything changes. Beyond herefew living trod this path.

The two looked up at her. Saliss nodded. Ryoka looked at Maviola and felt a tinge of envy.

Power. And at the end of her life, too. On this run? She nodded.

The three knew each other, now. It was the fastest of bonds, like that of the Horns with Ryoka, but even stronger. Three people, with the same mission. How could they not feel a connection?

Was it a good Skill?

Saliss looked up at Maviola. Her eyes burned.

Yes. I think so, at least.

Good.

He laughed. She looked at him with a nod that was almost deferential. He had reached Level 50 before her. The [Alchemist] looked at Ryoka. The teasing had turned to respect in the Drakes gaze, as it had for Ryoka. But quick as a flash, he grinned again.

So thats two Level 50 Skills. Wheres yours, huh? Huh? Someones the Creler-fodder here. And its not the horse.

He pointed at Lady Iekas mare, who had indeed bore Maviola through the storm of attacks.

Ryoka was almost tempted to blow Saliss into a tree. They were using the outskirts of a forest as cover; it slowed them, but it made them a lot harder to spot from overhead. Then, she knew he was right. Her head lowered. Ryoka looked at the other two.

Youre right. Im the weakest one here. If anything happensyou two go ahead. Thatll be the plan.

Saliss smile faded. Maviola looked at Ryoka. The Wind Runner took a gulp of air.

Ill pretend to have the cure and leave you two behind. You have the best chance. Ill lure them off. So

Her throat closed at the thought. She had barely made it out of Invrisil. Her silly plan had only worked because Erin had called an army in to fight the others. SalissMaviolaboth of them had laid better plans. They had a better shot.

The Named Adventurer and the [Lady] of House El looked at each other gravely. They exchanged something unspoken. Then they nodded at each other.

She is so cute.

She is. I see it now. I thought she was aggravating, but how adorable.

Ryokas head jerked around. Saliss jogged over. Maviola laughed, as did Saliss.

Look at you, being so brave!

Saliss pinched Ryokas cheek gently. She punched at him as they ran, but he just stepped away. Ryoka turned beet red.

I mean it!

I know you do. Which makes it all the more precious.

Maviola drawled as she leaned on her horses saddle, resting despite the fast-moving mare. Saliss was chortling.

Doesnt it remind you ofno, keep going! Ill hold them off! Dont worry about me!

He looked at Maviola. This time the [Lady] nearly fell off her horse, she was laughing so hard. Ryoka opened and shut her mouth, turning from beet to lobster to tomato in order of embarrassment.

They werent taking her seriously! Nono, the problem was, they were. But they were like her. Saliss rolled his eyes at Ryoka.

I said something like that the first time I was in a situation like this, ohtwenty years ago. I was just a kid and there I was, potion in my claw

He laughed. Maviola nodded.

A battalion of Drakes, for me. Gresaria and I were arguing about whod stay back to hold the lines.

They laughed. Ryoka stared at them. Theyd done it before. That was why they laughed. Saliss head turned and he grinned at her with all his teeth.

Were not mocking you, Ryoka. Not too much. Were going to live. Or die. But youre the kid who thinks the world revolves around her. Who thinks shes the only hero. And the truth is, its actually me.

He spread his arms wide, raising them, running like a marathon runner finishing first. Self-absorbedMaviola was guffawing. Arrogant.

They had done this kind of thing before. Ryoka was the junior. They were teasing her. And it was a terrible combination.

One was a grandmother, a great grandmother, the worst of all when she was affectionate. The other was Saliss.

A delightful child.

Maviola El was chortling. Ryoka would have given anything for a [Witch] to appear and attack them right now. Then she looked at Ryoka, the mirth fading.

I called you many names, Ryoka. You were a silly girl for how you did it. But the why? The courage to do so?

She dipped her head, straining. And then she was the [Lady] who had conjured fire, called the Five Houses to arms. The banner she had carried lay spent, the cloth long burned away. But it would ignite before the end.

I understand everything about why you ran.

That was all she said. But it was so much more. She looked at Ryoka, the Wind Runner. I know you, Maviolas eyes told the younger woman. I know your fears, why you had to do it.

We are alike.

Ryoka could barely meet the gaze. This was a different Maviola El. Not the young woman of Ryokas age. But neither the woman at the end of her life. Some blend of the two.

Saliss nodded. He looked at Ryoka and shook his head.

Dont talk about whos dying first, Ryoka. That means its you. Think on how to live. Believe itor youll be too slow when the moment comes. Ive been in this kind of situation more than once. Until the moment when you diebelieve youre going to make it.

He looked ahead, embarrassed himself to be that genuine. Ryoka saw Maviola El gazing ahead as Saliss checked the orb. Speculating on their next route.

Vail Forest is how we should cut to House Veltras. Scrying spells will fail if we can make it into the deeper areas where the magic is still strong.

Never been. Think we can stop for ingredients?

On the way back. Try not to burn it down.

Look whos talking.

I tried, onceI misspeak. Not tried

Ryoka saw them looking ahead, pointing. Talking with a mix of bravado and hope. Not fearless, but

In that moment, Ryoka realized something. She looked after them as she let herself slow, just a tiny bit so she could see them running ahead.

They were what she wanted to be. Her admiration for them in this moment, at this timeRyoka wanted to turn into someone like them.

A pyromaniac old woman who had sex with Drakes way younger than her and an annoying exhibitionist streaker. Yes! No, wait.

What they really were, and revealed only when they were needed. When the chips were down and the world was ending.

Glorious.

-

A moment. The wind blew across Ryoka, and she felt not the exhaustion in her body, or fear. She looked ahead as they broke from the forest.

Then the first arrow thunked into the ground two dozen paces ahead. The three looked up.

Sell me to Salazsar! Breaks over! Theyve found us!

Saliss threw a potion before Ryoka had even processed the figures ahead of her. They hadnt expected his reaction. Nor the speed at which the potion travelled, as fast as the bolts. And the range

[Remote Detonation]. The flask bloomed ahead of Ryoka and Maviola as they turned left. Then sawthere was no need.

The group of six had been stationed as a sort of checkpoint on the road ahead, a vantage point, sighting for the three. Saliss explosion of yellow covered the group of [Assassins] in the tower of stone. Ryoka saw them tumbling off the fortification.

What did you hit them with?

Spores! Dont run that way! Blow the wind the other way!

Ryoka raised her hand. The wind blew the yellow cloud away as Maviola ignited her Kaalblade again, pointing a finger to use her [Fast Fireball] spell

None of the figures got up. They lay, twitching. Ryoka stared at Saliss. He was looking around, upwards, as if trying to find scrying spells.

Thats torn it. Theyll notice the dead [Assassins] fastespecially if they had lifestones on them. Lets move. Ryoka?

On it. Maviola

She tossed the scroll from her belt. The [Lady] caught it, unfurled it.

[Minute of Speed]

The wind blew at their backs, changing from the ordinary weather patterns and the gentle breeze. The three accelerated, under the effects of potions and Skills. They had to beat the closing net as the Circle reacted.

The scrying orb in Saliss claw lit up.

-

Magic detected! Theyve found them!

Lyonettes head jerked up from dozing. Palt was shouting. The [Princess] heard the common room come alive. The vigil broken.

Someone tumbled out of her room and clashed down the stairs. A Gnoll, whod fallen asleep with the help of a [Sleep] spell, woke, and raced after Erin.

The broadcast by Wistram revealed the three again. Saliss, Maviola, RyokaDrassi and Sir Relz werent even talking. They were just watching with everyone else.

They found them!

The [Scrying] spell was watching from above. Wistram must have decided that they werent endangering the three. And it was easy to see why

Another bloom of light, from a [Fireball]. Maviola El pointed and blew some [Riders] away. More flashes

Saliss potions. He was scattering them at the distant figures, who were reluctant to approach. You couldnt have missed it. The Guild was homing in on them again.

Oh no. They found them!

Erin saw Ryoka running, aiming a wand and shooting arrows of magic at the [Assassins].

Howd they find them?

They must have run into them by accident. Can they get away?

sorry, everyone. Were watching the Guild of Assassins and the threeRunnerstheyve just been intercepted!

Drassis voice broke through the silence. She looked around and Sir Relz sat up.

Y-yes. They appear to have been caught out after nearly four hours of silence. We didnt reveal themit looks like the Guild is deploying every [Assassin] they have. Thatsa lot of them.

[Riders]. People in those unmarked carriages. Erins hands tightened. The Guild was coming after the three. [Assassins] were firing crossbows, shooting spells back, but Saliss was keeping them all back by the sheer firepower the Drake was laying out. Anything that tried to get closer than four hundred feet was almost instantly blown apart.

But he didnt have unlimited potions. Erins hands clenched.

Can nothing be done?

Pawn was standing with Lyonette. He was praying, but he was looking around. Lyonette was mumbling.

I tried to give her my

Erin stepped forwards. She put her hand on the mirror.

Hey! Stop blocking the screen!

Someone shouted. Mrsha ran over to punch whoever it was. Erin ignored them. She looked at Ryoka, tossing the spent wand and grabbing another one.

[Boon of the Guest].

The other guests turned. Montressa jerked upright. Lyonette swung around.

Erin?

Ryoka kept running. Erin saw her stumble, pointan [Assassin] was blown off her horse by a sudden jet of wind. Ryoka ran ahead, pumping her arms and legs

Erin didnt see anything different. She shook her head. She hadnt felt the sense she got with Skills, either, like when she threw a [Minotaur Punch].

I must be too far away. Or theres something

Thats a new Skill.

Yeah.

The [Innkeeper] didnt even look at Lyonette. She clenched her fists. She felt helpless. And everyone hereshe looked around.

Palt, Montressa, Bezale, Ulinde and Jelaqua, who had changed bodiesFierre, who had reappeared after being buried by rubble, staring at her friend, leaving only Salamani missingMenolit, Pawn, Yellow Splatters, Xrn, Olesm, Grimalkin

If they were in the south, the Walled Cities could do more. Long-range castingFissival is out of range. Spells have their limits. So do Skillsunless theres a connection.

The [Sinew Magus] was conferring with the others. Erin saw, with a slight shock, he was talking with a man she knew. A new guest of the inn. But a friend, almost certainly.

Earl Altestiel nodded.

My storm skill only extends to, well, a hundred miles around me at the furthest I could throw it. And they would have to be in my army for my Skills or those of my [Strategists]. A hundred miles. I never thought that would be too short range.

What about the door? Could we overcharge the enchantment? We have more mana

You cannot simply overcharge a spell. You are talking about the limitation of the bindings, not a lack of mana.

Hedault interrupted Selys. The Drake looked around helplessly.

Well, we have to do something! Lets go raid Magnolia Reinharts mansionsee if she has a spare carriage!

She took it. Even if someone could shapeshift into a birdthey wouldnt catch up in time to help. Hope they run into Vail Forest, little land friend, Mrsha. There is a Circle there.

Nalthaliarstrelous. Even he was here. Erin saw a Gold-rank team talking with Todis Elites. Jewel, a Gold-rank Captain who had joined the fighting in Invrisil

People had helped fight the [Assassins] that even Erin hadnt seen. People she hadnt asked. The [Druid] had crushed an entire part of the city by himself. So many, here for the same reason.

Watching. Lord Alman Sanito and his wife stared at Numbtongue, who was whispering with Badarrow. They had come to bury Lord Toldos.

how many? Big? Can they fly?

Too slow. Fat, heavy. Good for carryingnot good catching.

The [Bard] looked up. Erins head turned. So many people here. All feeling what she was feeling.

What Izril was feeling. Look at her. Maviolas banner was aflame again. Kaalblade in her hand, banner in the other.

Thats a lightsaber, isnt it? Not as cool, butshe never told us. Think I can buy one?

Kevin muttered to Rose. She made no reply. She, like the rest, was watching. Helpless. But they wanted to help. Erin tightened her grip.

It was enough. She had not called an army to Izril unbidden. Lord Toldos had not died alone. Poor Redit, Teor

They had not fought for her alone. It was too much.

This could not continue any longer. That was what Izril felt, surely. Erin only wishedshe looked up as the luck began to run out.

-

It was inevitable. Saliss was a Named Adventurer. But he had a limit on his potions. They were moving fast, high-level, burning artifacts. But you couldnt expect to run through a gunfight without being shot. Let alone so many encounters.

The first arrow struck Maviola in the shoulder. She cried out. And a second one hit her in the back.

Long-range shots. They didnt go through. She yanked them out, grabbing for a potion.

Poison.

Damn. Drink this!

Saliss flipped a potion at her. A glowing cure-all. Maviola drank it, coughedRyoka saw some of the color return. Then a healing potion.

[Volley: Venom Flight]!

Get out of range!

Saliss threw a potion up. It blew most of the arrows apart, but more were landing. The [Assassins] had mobilized and they were using Skills.

They werent idiots. They were attacking further than Saliss or the other two could easily hit them. Crossbows, bowsRyoka saw a flicker.

A [Longbow Assassin] forced the coach to stop as he drew an arrow. He was aiming at her. She blew at him and the wind rocked the coach. But too far away for her to control. He checked himselfloosed

[Forceshield]

The scroll in her hand glowed. Ryoka saw the barrier appear. The arrow blew through it. [Piercing Arrow], [Longrange Shot], and

Someone tossed a vial on her. Ryoka jerked

The arrow struck her in the chest. The spinning tip dug into her flesh, lodgedRyoka yanked the arrow out. Stared at it. Then she whirled.

Saliss lowered the vial as Maviola pulled herself upright.

[Alchemy: Shortened Span] for [Doubled Efficacy]. Im out of defensive toughening potions. No more [Ironscales], [Barkskin]I knew I should have kept some instead of selling them all at once.

Ride.

Maviola gasped. The [Longbow Assassin] was reloading. Ryoka ran.

Im sorry.

Hed wasted his supply of potions on her and Maviola. Alone, the Drake wouldnt have burned through his stash.

Nah. I was already low. Just dont get hit. The potions already worn off.

It was true. And the [Archers]Ryoka gritted her teeth.

Blow, wind! Please!

She emptied her bag of holding. The group of archers looked ahead and saw the three vanish for a second. A cloud of dirt and sand and caltrops shot at them. Horses and the unguarded figures screamed as the whirlwind engulfed them.

Lets go!

Ryoka pointed ahead. All of her tricks, all of the othersthis wasnt a sprint, or a covert run.

It was a marathon. And the trouble with marathons was that you got tired. You had to manage your strength for the entire run. If they stumbled at any point in this run

Maviola El looked at the cloud of dust. She snapped her fingers. Ryoka saw a jet of red fire, bright red, unnaturally

Thump. The detonation was a dust-cloud explosion. It didnt kill all the [Assassins], butRyoka looked at Maviola as they ran.

Together, they were stronger than the parts. Wellperhaps Saliss was better on his own. But she wasnt useless!

Lake! Around or over? Saliss?

Maviola pointed ahead. Past the open grassland by the forest was a lake. They were avoiding the road which the [Assassins] were flooding down. The [Alchemist] didnt hesitate.

Around! You idiots dont know how to [Waterwalk] even if I splash you!

Thats something you have to practice too?

Ryoka shouted. The milling archery group was stymied behind them and she had a moment of relief. Another encounter down. How many more to go?

Of course! You think you can just walk on water? Its slippery when wet! And its always

To the right. Theyve flanked us.

Maviolas voice stopped Saliss and Ryoka. They turned. A group had emerged from the lake they were moving around.

They hadnt walked on water. They had disguised themselves, hiding under the surface to bait the three into passing close by. Nowthey shook water from themselves, took aim.

Ah. Get behind m

Saliss was reaching for a tonic. Ryoka heard the twang.

-

The second flight of bolts hit the Drake for the first time. Hed thrown himself in front of the young woman.

Hes immune to poisons! Saliss of Lights is not downedhes on his feet! Runningbut

Sir Relzs voice faltered. Cara saw the young Human woman yanking him up, onto the back of the [Lady]s horse as the Drake yanked the arrows out of his scales. The horse slowed, and the Wind Runner pointed back. The wind blew the second volley off-target. She rodethe metal-and-wood vehicles wheels flashing.

Thats a bike.

The Singer of Terandria looked at Ryoka Griffin from her trailer in distant Terandria. She felt like she hadnt blinked or looked away from the orb since being roused by an urgent [Message] from Wistram.

She hadnt said that. One of the others in the room, the silent audience of Earthers, had muttered that. Cara didnt need to say that was a bike. She had eyes. But she thought

Thats batman?

She had never talked to the person that Aaron, Blackmage, had referenced in their chats. Like Carathe other had learned to distrust Wistrams involvement. But there she was, apparently. There was some trust, something between her and Aaron. The Singer of Terandria saw her fighting.

Brave. Stupid. Some mix of the two, or something else.

Theyre in trouble. Theyre out of buffs.

Shut up, Greg. This isnt a game.

Thien rounded on the guitarist. Cara said nothing. Sothis was the Wind Runner of Reizmelt? It was a good post for someone from Earth. And this was where she was.

Add her to the list, Abebi.

Is she going to make it? Theyre being attacked

Rae looked worriedly at the image. Cara had a moments thought. Any Earther who saw thiswould know Ryoka Griffins name. Even more than they knew the Singer. A bike. She had to be desperate.

Well. Cara had thought that Ryokabatmanwas a secretive, even paranoid sort. But then, it fit the description of a crazy person who ran around in a bat-costume punching people.

Turn that off, Abebi. The rest of youwith me.

Cara sighed. The others looked at her.

Cara! Youre not going to watch?

Watching does nothing. Thien, get your drums. Greg, guitar. Everyone, get set up.

The band looked at Cara. It was night! Not that they couldnt conjure an audience; the crowds followed them everywhere. ButAbebi looked at Cara.

Whats up, Cara?

The [Popstar] walked outside.

Hey! Set up the stage! Hurry!

She bellowed, and the caravan woke up. The [Singer] looked around. Makeup, dress

What are you going to do, Cara?

Some of them were uncomprehending. But some of them whod been with her looked up sharply. Cara focused on the orb in Abebis hands. She let one of the [Clothiers] present her with a selection of outfits.

That one. Hurry up. Just cover any mistakes. Andlet me think.

Song?

Thien looked at her sharply. Rae was still uncomprehending. Cara bit her lip.

Something action-packed. Just find one. Its not the song that matters. Im trying toif I were closer, I could summon aid. But

Youre going to sing? But Cara, theyre a continent away! Even the [Strategists] were saying

Cara looked at Rae. She snorted.

Theres nowhere my voice cant reach. Tell Aaron I need a favor.

-

Someone started playing a song out of the scrying orb. Ryoka saw Saliss twist.

Ancestors tails, what

-

The Singer of Terandria appeared on the screen, in a corner of the broadcast. Erin nearly broke the glass.

What? What? This isnt the time for

This one goes out to the Wind Runner of Reizmelt, the [Alchemist] of Pallass, Lady El and whoever believes in doing the right thing!

The Popstar of Terandria began to sing. Erins jaw dropped. She saw Drassi and Sir Relz reacting, asking furious questionsno one had told them either! But then

-

Ryoka sped up. She felt her body, shaking with nervous adrenaline and the potions, relax. Something like actual rest replaced the magic and alchemy. Maviolas flagging mare perked her head up and snorted.

What the

Thats a [Singer]s Skills.

Saliss looked at the orb. Then he grinned. The [Assassins] behind them were covering their ears. Ryoka heard a pop songwas it that loud and objectionable?

-

[Banshees Voice]. [Melody of Speed]. [Song of Rejuvenation]

Cara sang.

-

Lets go!

Saliss leapt off Maviolas back. They were coming down the road, the three forced back. He raised a potion and lobbed it ahead of him.

Damn, I need to ration these

The Potion of Firespark Blast flew through the air. Ryoka saw it flying ahead as the group of oncoming [Riders] split into two. They knew how to dodge the [Alchemist] by now. The potion curved, trying to tag the left groupbut too slowly.

Then it split in midair. Two potions landed. Ryoka flinched as two fiery explosions laced with sparks obliterated the leftmost group. The other group of [Assassins] instantly peeled back.

What the

She stared at Saliss. He could duplicate his potions? The Drake was staring at his own throw with wide eyes. Then he looked up.

The Old Man.

She didnt know what he meant at first. Saliss strode forwards. Suddenlyhe was lobbing potions fast. They split in midair, curving with unnatural speed. And he was moving like

-

[Army: Duplicate Projectiles]. [Path to Victory]. [Battalion: Arcs of the Swallow].

Chaldion of Pallass eye glowed. He sat in the war room, alone. He had dismissed the lesser [Strategists], the [Generals].

His Skill did not affect the other two. One was a [Lady]. The otheran entry on Grimalkins lists. But the last was his family.

Saliss. And he would not die here. The [Strategist] was watching the projection. The [Singer]s voice, which was like a shriek to the [Assassins], was aiding the three. Her voice could reach around the world so long as there was Wistram to send it.

Clever. Was it enough? Chaldion was using an hourglass, managing his Skills. Saliss had taken advantage of the increase in his already nigh-unstoppable firepower. The [Assassins] had backed off.

But those arrows. Chaldion had a few Skills that would protect Saliss, but the Named Adventurer had dodged almost everything. The ones who needed it were

-

Arrows. They were landing around her. Ryoka felt a pressure on her head! Noit was squeezing her. Maviola was suffering from the same.

Long-range hexes!

Saliss cursed. Ryoka felt the ring Hedault had given her glowing, burning her finger as it fought them off. There were [Mages] throwing their own clouds of darkness, trying to slow them. And the arrows!

Forwards! My Skill! I have to use it! [S

Maviola cried out. So did her mare. More arrows were falling. Ryoka cried out. A cloud of black fog was flying towards them.

Maviola!

Ill stop that cloud! Grab her! Potion of Dispel! No? Damn! Get the cloud, Ryoka!

Saliss lobbed more vials as Ryoka went for Maviola. She looked up as another volley was called. No

[Volley: Blacksteel Rain]! [Instantaneous Reload]! Kill them!

Everyone got Skills. Ryoka raised her hand. The arrows and the fog were coming. And one was death. She blew the fog away. And two clouds of bolts and arrows, loosed so fast they were one storm, fell towards them.

Her ears popped. The pressure on her headMaviolas head was turning.

Not the hex

Ryokas ring had stopped burning. Yet she still felt like somethingsomeone was grasping her. Hershoulder?

Well, we cant have this, can we?

Someone spoke in her ear. Ryoka felt the pressure intensify. The poisoned arrows flew downwardsand the voice spoke again.

[Greater Blessing of Armor].

The arrowsbounced off Ryokas skin. Maviola straightened. Ryoka felt somethingshe looked around.

Who was that?

-

Venith Crusland stared at the King of Destruction. Flos Reimarch had a sheen of sweat on his face. Hed struggled for the last ten minutes. But at last

Your Majesty? How did you?

Im tired of watching such entertaining events unfolding. I thought I could do it and went for it. You may have to adjust your battle plans, Venith.

The [King] grinned. His eyes sparked as he saw the three moving through the arrows, past the confused [Assassins].

Confirmed, [Blessing of Armor]. But who could have used

The King of Destruction laughed. He straightened. I am the King of Destruction. If I want to bless them, I will. [Rapid March]. [Induction: The Kings S

He hesitated, lowered his hand. Flos scratched at the back of his head and chuckled.

Well, not yet. I got carried away there. Hah! But wouldnt it be funny ifVenith? Dont look at me like that.

-

The King of Destruction. Pandemonium. Chaos. Just the kind of thing that Flos Reimarch lived for.

The Archmage of Terandria ignored the screaming Drakes in the scrying orb with gritted teeth as best he could.

Silence them! I need to concentrate!

He ordered the others. The linked group of [Mages] agreed. Archmage Viltach focused the magic in Wistram to his will.

His eyes were on the three, fleeing the [Assassins] still. They had switched to spells while the blessing was in effect.

One of them was from Earth. For that aloneViltach inhaled, exhaled. He was no [Archmage]. Not yet. But he was not one of the greatest [Mages] of Wistram for nothing.

[Greater Far Cast]. [Concentrate Mana]. I need to overload this spell. Someone use the [Indirect Hex] Skill! [Area of Diffusion]

The [Mages] were murmuring Skills, using their magic to target a spot so far out of range of Wistramit took fourteen of them of Viltachs circle, linked with him. But still

[Greater Lightning Bolt].

The orb was on a five second delay. But Viltach hadnt been using it as anything more than an aid. The bolt targeted the nearest warm bodies. Blew apart one of the oncoming coaches. The [Assassins] once again scattered. You could almost hear them screaming where had that come from?

-

Someones boosting them!

The Ranks were trying to get the three. But everything in existence was getting in their way! Spells out of nowhere, Skills activated

They didnt belong to the King of Destruction. But stillSaliss split into three, and two doppelgangers took arrows and thrown daggers meant for him. The Drake screamed at the sky.

Stop using your damn Skills! I feel like Im going to hurl!

The pressure on Ryoka relaxed a bit. It was likemultiple people fighting to lean on her. If she didnt will it

But they were trying to help. Ryoka heard the [Popstar] singing, more voices

-

A certain [King of Archers] rose to his feet, incensed. The Terandrian [King] looked at Flos Reimarch, who was giving an interview as the [Assassins] broke off to regroup. Too many Skills, activating too fast. He bellowed, incensed, as surely other rulers were doing upon seeing that smug bastard.

If hes going to interfere, so shall I! Bring me my bow and the Arrow of a Thousand Leagues!

He tried to shoot from his throne. His people held him back, frantic.

Still out of range, your Majesty. Please, do notsomeone hold his Majesty back!

They tried to stop him from using one of the relics of his kingdom. And succeeded, thank Avel.

-

So many people, trying to help. Getting in each others way. Doing it for so many reasons. Attention. The righteousness of it. For fun.

How must it feel to be on the other side of so much ire? So much hatred?

It feltthe Guild was panicking. Well, the administrators. The Ranks, perhaps. The Circle of Thorns, certainly.

Thisthis was falling apart. The members of the Guilds best lay dead, countless Rankseven if they were expendablekilled and their gear lost! This was a disaster!

Heard they killed Art.

Who?

The Art of Daggers.

Oh.

A voice amid the silent shapes. That had been the self-styled nickname of one of the best Faces in the Guild. The bearer of the [Hundredfold Stab] Skill. Of all the Faces in Invrisiland there had been a fewhe was the best by far.

Who got him?

The Small Queen.

Ah. Well, thats just too bad. I thought hed have had a chance on paper. He owed me money.

Mhm.

Ferin made a note in the book. He looked up.

The Faces of the Guild sat in the Unmarked Coach. Not all of them. But the ones coming from other parts on the continent. The Djinnis vehicle had adjusted its direction, picking them up, moving after

Her. Them. The Guild was worried. The Faces sat silently.

No one here had suggested giving up, or surrendering, or changing tactics. Opinion was turned against them. Multiple leaders from outside of Izril were helping the three.

So they had to kill them. Let the world back the Wind Runner, Saliss of Lights, the Lady of House El. The Guild just had to prove they could kill their targets even with the King of Destructions aid.

They had gone far too far to turn back, anyways.

Looks like they moved past the archer groups. Stupid idea, anyways. That [Alchemist] is blowing them to bits.

One less potion for us.

Laughter. Ferin turned. Therewas Mire. One-armed. Still adjusting to the change. Still furious.

[Blademaster]. [High Mage]. The [Trapmaster] saw all the same faces who had been with him for Magnolia Reinharts ambush. And more.

How much longer? We can move faster than this damned coach. Some of us, at any rate.

The Djinni driver didnt respond to that. The other [Assassins] murmured. Ferin saw one of them check the map.

Well make it. Theyre nearly halfway, though. We lost them for too long in the night.

So? Theyre about to run into the reserves.

-

Ryoka Griffin was waiting for the sun. But it had yet to rise, for hours, perhaps. Less?

The Skills were wearing off. She had been under the effects of nearly a dozen and Saliss had been rightso many with overlapping effects had made her nauseous.

They were headed down the road. They could have gone off roadbut they were passing by some foothills. Rocks, outcroppingsperfect ambush areas.

Ryoka remembered the [Assassin] with wires. The road was dangerousbut had less chokepoints.

I see something ahead of us, I think.

Maviola frowned. There was a rise up the road. She kept seeing something peeking over the edge.

Turn into the hills? Another way?

Werenot going to be able to turn back.

Shadows at their rear. Keeping far, far out of range. But their pursuers were still behind them. The [Hasted] trio were outrunning them. Once theyd fought free of the ambush, Saliss superior potions and their speed were keeping them safe.

But they could not find another path or slow or theyd lose that lead. Foothills, something ahead, behind their pursuers

We could go east?

The exact opposite direction of House Veltras?

Ryoka said nothing. Saliss shook his head.

Lets see what it is. Get behind me.

The Wind Runner nodded. She and Maviola kept pace, one on horseback, the other pedaling the magic bike; Ryoka felt like there was something wrong. The blasts from the magic, perhaps. The spells? It felt morelike a normal bike. The enchantments damaged, perhaps?

She could still race along a lot faster than on foot. Saliss jogged over the ridge, a beat before Maviolas mare clattered over the slight incline. Ryoka was next. She felt confident. The [Popstar] had stopped singing, probably having used up her Skills for the moment, but there were people helping. They could do it! She raised her head

Oh.

The Guild of Assassins was waiting for them by the river. The foothills to the west, a natural barricade. The bridge ahead blocked. It was one of the natural chokepoints. A good place to try and stop some annoying Runners.

Run into the hills. Run over the river. Turn, and find another route. All these were valid options. But what stopped the three, made even Maviolas blazing confidence flickerwere the numbers.

Ah.

Saliss breathed out. He turned to Maviola and Ryoka in the sudden silence. He nodded ahead.

The flaw with Plan: Horse? It gave them time to prepare for us.

An army of figures waited for them at the crossing. Ryoka sawranks of the Ranks. Actual formations. Set up, entrenched.

Towers conjured by Skills or magic. Fortified ground. Andthousands of [Assassins].

That has to bethree thousand of them. At least.

Maviola El faltered. Ryoka breathed.

Bullshit. There cant be this many. Not after how many we killed.

Saliss of Lights was counting too. He looked over his shoulder. Ryoka twisted and saw the pursuerssuddenly a speck compared to the force waiting to turn them into paste.

He shrugged at her.

The Guild for an entire continent? Id bet they had at least ten thousand members. Soa third of them? Heres a tip, Ryoka. Never underestimate how much you can piss off your enemies.

The Drake squinted. The scrying orb had gone silent. The commentators quiet. Or hed turned off the orb. Ryoka only heard the Named Adventurers voice. He was studying the group, looking over his shoulders.

Yep. Theyre coming from behind. Bet you they trapped the foothills once they planned our route. Heres some good news: thats not three thousand. I think.

Its not?

The other two looked at him. The [Alchemist] squinted, shading his eyes with his claws. He drank a vial, his gaze sharpening.

Not all of them are real. I see illusionsand probably more I cant detect. And some are using [Invisibility]. Sorun at the illusions, not the invisible ones or the ones whore really there.

Ryoka laughed. It had a note of despair in it. Maviola shook her head.

My SkillII dont think its enough for this. If we were being pursued? But we would have to break through.

The east?

Ryoka looked towards flatter land, descending downwards, back towards the forest and lake. Saliss stared ahead.

The [Assassins] were just waiting. Their friends were catching up from behind. They werent going to budge. Try to get past us. If they ranthe army would just pivot and hem them in again.

Ryoka was breathing fast. Even if half of them were fake. Even ifshe counted prowling figures mixed with the [Assassins] and realizednot all of them were Human.

Monsters. Some are leashed, others summoned. Typical.

Maviola seemed resigned. She had seen armies before. Saliss nodded.

Theyll be as fast as the [Assassins]teleport? Just throwing it out there.

How much do you want to bet theyll force the spell to teleport us into their ranks? We arent [Mages]

Ringing in her ears. Ryoka was panting. It was time. But theyd fill her with arrows before she could

Saliss clapped his claws together, briskly. Bringing Ryoka out of the trance. The Named Adventurer stretched, nude, flexing, in front of the Guild. The figures stirred at a distance. Saliss sprang to his feet, clapped his claws again.

Alright! Heres the plan. We go through them. Maviola, you take a thousand on the left, Ill take two thousand on the right, Ryoka, you take that one over there.

He pointed at an [Assassin] with a sword just off-center. Ryoka and Maviola looked at Saliss.

The Drake was smiling. Ryoka started.

Are ySaliss. We have to, to

He clapped her on the shoulder, cheerfully. Ryokas eyes widened. She felt a clawand something in her hand.

The vial. She nearly looked down, but Saliss grip tightened on her arm. Maviola was looking at them. She pointed and a [Fireball] flashed past them, slowing their pursuers. But they were ambling too. They knew the three had nowhere to go.

Saliss thoughthe Drake whispered to Ryoka and Maviola.

Take it. Dont drink it, obviously. Glass is reinforced, but put it in the bag of holding. One vial cures ten kids. You just need a spoonful. It should blast the toxin out of them. Get them out of the room where theyre sick, though. It was a gas. Pretty sure.

Ryoka felt her stomach lurch as she looked at him. The Named Adventurer was just smiling. And he was

Saliss. No.

Someones got to get you two through that mess. And that someone is me. You two suck at fighting. Reallyyouve been slowing me down the entire time. But youre probably faster. My thighs are chafed.

The Drake grinned at Ryoka. She heard a hum underneath his tone. Saliss looked ahead.

Well go around. Dont

Theyre expecting us to try. But look ahead. Look at that. Thousands of [Assassins]. Summoned monsters. Allso close together. When I hit you tworun. Youll have ten minutes.

You wont

Ryoka tried to say something. Saliss ignored her. He was looking at Maviola. She said nothing. Nothingfor a long moment she looked at Saliss. Then nodded.

Dont die, Saliss. Ryokaput away your bike. I think it will complicate matters.

Good point! Bike away. Brush yourself offarent you glad we werent horses up till here? Youd be naked. On television.

Saliss laughed lightly, brushing at Ryokas shoulders. He saw her looking at him.

You

I work better alone. Ive been holding back because I didnt want to harm you two. Keep going. I might not get their best. Okay? Good.

He turned. Ryoka reached for him. Maviola rode between them. Saliss of Lights checked his belt. He looked over his shouldersspun. Threw, like a baseball pitcher.

A glass orb blew apart some [Assassins] creeping up the road. They stopped again. The Named Adventurer nodded to the other two.

Ladies. Shall we go?

-

The Drake walked forwards alone. The other two were behind him. Giving him distance. But they werent breaking right or left, or turning. The ranks of [Assassins] stirred.

Both of them had a trick left. But one would not save the three. And the otherwouldnt have been enough.

An army. So the Named Adventurer walked onwards.

Naked. Grinning like a madman. His arms spread wide, as if they were at a party and he had just seen them and was going to make himself a nuisance.

The Mad Drake of Pallass. Saliss the Naked. That Insane [Alchemist]. Pallass Number One Nuisance.

Oh, they had many names for him. Some of them even hurtful.

Turnscale. One they did not know, but spoke. And it still hurt him more than his other titles. Hurt her.

Saliss beamed. He was relaxed, ready to move. Calculating velocitiespreparing his order of potions. His mind was calm.

What had he told Klbkch the Slayer?

This body is a vessel. A cocoon, perhaps. And one day, I will be set free.

Why do you hide your true form, girl?

You couldnt go back after that. Some things changed the world forever. Saliss walked forwards. The [Alchemist] saw the Guild of Assassins, their imposing army, begin to shift.

Was he just going to walk at them? They had their weapons ready. An arrow of death from Rhir was nocked on her string. She stood in the back, amid the Ranks.

Yet the Drake just walked. Ryoka and Maviola were waiting. Saliss stopped. He looked at the army and raised one claw.

Hi. Thanks for coming all the way out here. But the Runners you were actually seeking are on the other bridge.

The [Assassins] stared at him silently. One actually looked the way Saliss was pointing. The Drake sighed. It was worth a shot.

He raised his voice as he resumed his walk. Arrows were drawn back. Crossbows leveled. But they were waiting. Listening, spellbound by audacity.

You know, my old man once told me that the Humans were our enemies. But Ive never fought them since coming back from Chandrar. I lost an uncle in battles with them. Yet Pallass never asked me to join in. And you know why? Because everyone was afraid Id start the real war by killing them all at your cute little Bloodfields skirmish. Once, I even thought he was right. Imagine that.

Saliss waited for laughter. But it was a tough crowd. He looked over his shoulder. That cute little Runner was staring at him. He smiled at her, marking her position. A vial slipped into his claw. Damn. Three for all of them. He nearly forgot the horse. His entire stock. One less weapon, then.

Okay. It was okay. The Drake looked at the [Assassins].

I know you dont know why I came north. Or made the cure. I cared and didnt about those Human kids. I could say I wanted to win a victory. Do something right. But the truth isI just really want to kill something. I have to be honest.

The Drake flicked his wrists. The [Assassins] stirredbut the three vials hit Maviola, Ryoka, and the horse. They vanished.

[Invisibility]? Hah! The [Assassins] turned to their experts with [See Invisibility], [Heatsense], andthe senior Faces hesitated.

They were gone. Saliss of Lights bared his teeth.

[Greater Invisibility]. You low-level idiots. His only doses. A Named-Ranks equipment. He really did need to shave Xif when he got back. It would have been so easy.

But here they were. The Drake spread his arms. And he had a potion in both claws. The [Assassins] were milling. Some barking orders.

Find them! Comb each spot by hand if you have t

The first group of horses and riders vanished. The army wavered as Saliss advanced. The Drake was suddenly growing taller. Changing. He looked down on them all and they stared at a better, more experienced killer than any of them.

Im not going anywhere. And neither are you. I told you: I wanted to kill something. Now, tell me. Are you those things?

For just a second, their morale looked like it might break. Thenthe first hail of arrows flew. The first rank charged. Saliss threw vials. Not one from each claw, but a spray. Eight, clutched between both his claws fingers. Then eight again. Scattering them like a [Farmer] sowed seeds.

People vanished. Monsters died. Spells collided with bound magic and warped. The Drake spun.

Faster. He tracked where the other three were fleeing, running forwards. His scales were like iron. Chaldion was trying to protect him. The Drake felt something break the scales on his back.

No Minotaur-Drake hybrid this time. No Grimalkin-proxy. The [Assassins] looked up as a figure rose. From his back, one of the [Alchemist]s tentacles, like an octopus, hurled a vial which bloomed into deadly gas.

More hands.

The Named Adventurer felt the first arrows bounce off his amphibian skin. Someone lanced his leg with a glowing blade. He aimed at nothing and no one. He just scattered his potions to the winds and destroyed everything around him. Couldnt do that with the two Humans, could you?

They came for his life. Attacking the figure made of flesh and bone as if it mattered. They drew blood, cut and burned and stabbed. But so what?

It was just Saliss.

-

The Drake was fighting. Ryoka ran, deafened by the explosions. Invisible, thanks to his gift.

Maviola rode ahead, but Ryoka kept looking back.

They were killing him. Too many arrows, too many Skills and spells. For every potion he threw, there were a dozen counterattacks.

He stood in the center of their army and destroyed them. But he had overplayed his power from the start. Killed too many.

They were prepared.

[Resist Element: Acid]. [Flame Salamanders Skin]! Potion of Lightnings Bane! Go, go!

Ryoka?

The wind blew. Erin sawshe had to rub at her eyes. The Wind Runner of Reizmelt had left the ground. The first, almost explosive gust had snapped the glider, sent her up so fast she nearly let go.

A hundred feet in a moment. Erins jaw dropped.

Thats not a flying carpet.

Palt murmured. There wasnt as much awe as you might expect. After allthere were spells that allowed you to fly. Flying Carpets. Garuda did it for free.

But look at her. The inn was silent. The audience of the world watched.

The Wind Runner was flying.

She was struggling to clip herself to the glider. She had been putting on a belt, harnessshe could not hold on with hands alone! The [Assassins] looked up after her. Erin heard Mrsha howling. Somewhere, the Flying Gnoll of Pallass was screaming.

Bird had fainted again. Erins heart soared. Thenshe saw the [Assassin] with the wires point up.

-

Strike the skies. [Arrows of Lightning].

Ferin drew a scroll and unfurled it. Ryoka jerked as arrows made of lightning shot up after her. The others broke from their reverie.

[Grand Tempest]! You cant escape!

The [Mage] howled after her. It was true. So what if she could fly? They were [Assassins]! They had arrows, spellsRyoka was struggling. The wind threw her and the glider through the air to avoid the spells. She crashed against the frame of her glider.

She couldnt control it! It was just as shed feared. In her experimentsthe wind was far less easy to control in the air! She had been practicing in secretbut she had no mastery and she needed mastery.

Down

The [Grand Tempest] spell turned the air into lightning and wind. The gliders wings snappedthe wood held, but the impact sent Ryoka into a nosedive.

She hit the ground ahead of the [Assassins], so hard they actually stopped loosing spells. Had she just killed herself?

Gah! Aaaah

Ryokas scream answered them. Hedaults ring had saved her from being pulpedbarely. She scrambled up and the [Blademaster] charged at her. Just in time, the wind snapped her aloft again.

Before she gets out of range! Icoln! Kill her!

The Wind Runner was rising, half-stunned by the blow. Hedaults ring was dead. Another onebut the wind was obeying her request, carrying her up at dizzying speed. All she had to do was get out of range, ask the wind to land her close to House Veltras.

The flaws in her plan, and they had always been there, were spells to control the wind. Arrows from below. Ryokas own lack of skill in manipulating the wind when she could hit the ground at a hundred miles per hour with a single mistake.

Flight was not invulnerability. If it wasevery Oldblood Drake and Garuda would have been a Courier. And one more thing.

The fourth [Assassin] stared up at Ryoka Griffin as she flew upwards. The [Mage] was still trying to tag her with spells. But he was trying to hit a rapidly-moving target. She was going to

The Garuda shed his disguise. He leapt into the air after her. Ryoka looked back.

Did you really think we had no fliers in our Guild? We kill everything. The Garuda danced upwards, daggers in both wing-talons.

Nimbler than she was. Faster, as the capricious wind ignored Ryoka and obeyed at times.

No. Noget him

The Garuda was buffeted by a gale. But he caught himself. He tore through the wind in a cone of his own, defying the winds. Ryoka looked at him.

Then she gritted her teeth and reached for a knife. Somethingnot after all this! The Garuda saw her draw a dagger.

He snorted, highly amused. It wasnt even enchanted! He swooped around Ryoka with ease. The Garuda took aim.

The crossbow bolt punched through one of his wings. Ryoka heard a scream of pain. The [Assassin] twisted in midair. What? What? Neither one knew. Where had that bolt come from? But waitit had come fromabove

Alevica the Witch Runner hurtled out of the skies and loosed a second crossbow bolt. She clung to her broom as it brought her down in a spiral. She drew a blade and cut at the [Assassin] Garuda before moving away.

Alevica!

The Witch Runner cried out like the Garuda as he broke off. Ferin, on the ground, lost his last scraps of patience.

Where did that [Witch] come from?

She wont be there for long! [Homing Spell]. [Hundred Arrows of]

The [Mage] was drawing breath. Thensomeone picked him up. He screamed. A huge beak descended, and tore off his head. Ferin whirled. Wings flapped around him. Black feathers.

Mavika the Crow launched herself up into the air. She screamed as the Garuda turned.

Vengeance a thousand times for my covens lives!

Alevica! What are you doing?

Ryoka screamed as the wind bore her higher. The Witch Runner was fighting the Face. She was outclassedthe Garuda was dangerous. But she refused to let him attack Ryoka. She screamed back as she lobbed a vial which nearly caught the [Assassin].

I hate owing debts!

-

Four figures in the sky. The [Emperor] listened. He could sense none of it. Far from Ryokaand his senses were limited upwards as downwards.

Mavika made it?

She did, your Majesty

Is Ryoka alright?

Gamel relayed the moment to the [Emperor] as he leaned forwards.

-

The Garuda was being fought by two [Witches] in the air. [Witches]! The enemy the Circle of Thorns had so carelessly made! Ryoka felt the wind carrying her up as the [Assassin] came after her.

He was single-minded. Using explosive spells to down the crows trying to peck at him, avoiding the huge primordial avian that was Mavika fused with her raven familiar. Alevica shot upwards, clinging to her broombut she was burning magic.

Get higher, Ryoka! Go!

I

Ryoka could barely talk as the wind passed her. She saw the Garuda lancing upthe wind blew them both left.

More wind! Help me, please! Ryoka called to the air. Below them, the Faces were launching more spells, using scrolls. And she felt malign magic in the air.

They are summoning spells to kill you. Alevica, eat the hexes!

Mavika dropped away from a grappling blow with the Garuda. He had stabbed her a dozen times in the chest. She bledbut the giant bird screamed and resumed the attack. She had taken his left leg in vengeance.

Still upwards. The Circle wascasting something. Ryoka felt them trying to drag her down. She fought them.

The wind! Come to me, please! After all that has happened! All that has been sacrificed!

Other [Mages] were warring for the wind. Magic from Wistram, even Fissival! Fighting for control as the Wind Runner beseeched the wind in a way magic could not. She saw a bolt of lightning arc towards her out of the skiesthen away.

They were twisting nature against itself. And nature abhorred it. Ryoka felt the pressure building. The Garuda flew up towards her. The Wind Runner felt the pressurelike when the King of Destruction had been giving her the blessing.

Only a thousand times stronger. Even than a mortal [King]. The windthe atmospherewas furious. Too much magic. Bottled up as more mana was pumped into this place.

She just had toRyoka unleashed the building storm.

-

A cyclone of air blew Mavika and Alevica to earth. Alevica was in free fallshe poured every bit of mana she had into her broom. Every bit of power.

Her broomsnapped. But it stopped her fall. Enough that when she hit the groundshe was bruised instead of splattered. The [Witch] cursed as she got up.

Ryoka

Mavika hit the ground with a crunch. But she too lived. The [Witch] stared at a broken leg, hissing with pain. Her ribs tooher flock was fleeing the unnatural storm.

That fool! She just unleashed every bit of w

Whumph. Both [Witches] turned as something hit the ground ten times harder than they had.

The Garuda. Alevica stared atwhat was left. She stared upwards.

Ryoka did that?

No, she hadnt. Shed just unleashedthe Wind Runner was going higher. So high she was a speck.

Shes lost control. Alevica, we must flee.

The [Assassins]?

Alevica whirled. But they werent interested in the [Witches]. They still wanted Ryoka dead. And that wasnt what Mavika meant. She looked at Alevica.

You feel it.

My hat

At last, she did. The Witch Runner paled. And above herthe morning sky turned into something like a glimpse of armageddon. The rains began to fall. The wind picked up.

-

Report! Somethings happening at sea!

A [Weather Mage] burst into the room full of [Mages] fighting for control of the sky in Wistram. He shoved past the others, ignoring their outrage as he ran for the Archmages. Feor turned. Hed felt it too.

What is it?

Magical Typhoon Erandus is dissipating! No, its reforming

Feors head slowly turned to the orb. It suddenly went dark.

-

You idiots.

Grand Magus Eldavin felt his ship rock as the magical typhoon which had been blocking Baleros offteleported. He had sensed the magical war in the skies, even if he hadnt been interested in why.

Up till now. Had they no idea? So much magic in the air with a magical event like thathe looked up. Suddenly, gale-force winds were blowing off Izrils shores and hed just gotten in this boat!

Ill have to reinforce the hull. Id hate to swim. Damn idiots and weather magic

He left his bunk, walking calmly onto the deck. Even [Storm Sailors] were panicking. The [Captain] stared as the Grand Mage began casting magic.

Eldavin, Teriarch, paused for a second as the hull glowed, ignoring the wind suddenly, if not the choppy waves. He looked around. And then up.

It cant be. Is that

-

Ryoka?

The scrying spell was dead. The windErin ran outside. She looked far north. Beyond even the High Passes. Suddenlyshe didnt know what was happening.

No one did.

-

Were losing track of her. Shes too high up, moving too fast.

The Circle waited. The world waited. But no one knew where Ryoka Griffin was. The Thorns of Deaththey looked at each other.

Then cover the ground! If she doesnt diethat typhoon wont last. Teleporting used up most of its magic. It will dissipate within hours. I have seen it before.

One of the Circles members spoke. The others stirred. How did they? They ordered every agent they had. Not just [Assassins]. As they had decided. All or nothing.

But they had not prepared for the [Innkeeper] of Liscor. The Wind Runner of Reizmelt. Maviola of House El. Saliss of Lights. Their agents raced into place. And

-

The adventurers were fighting a running battle with [Assassins]. Theyd been headed for the Wind Runner, in pursuit. But they were caught.

Get them!

It was a Silver-rank team, whod ambushed the group of three carriages of the Ranks. Not just thema chariot raced ahead, with a second team in the center of the fight. The Silver-ranks loosed arrows, trying to catch up to the running battle.

Adventurers across the continent were fighting [Assassins]. This group had been racing north and west since the moment they had seen their friend.

The Horns of Hammerad. Pisces adjusted their course as Ceria blasted one of the coaches with ice magic.

Dodge them, Pisces!

Do you think a chariot can turn that fast?

The undead horses galloped without rest, but they couldnt exceed themselves either. The [Assassins] were speeding up.

Drop me!

Yvlon

The [Armsmistress] launched herself from the chariot. She hit the ground, caught herself, and brought up the sword.

[Sword Art: Curve of the Moon]!

The [Assassins] in the coach ahead of her were too slowthe arc of her blade smashed through the front of the coach. The coach stopped as the horses were knocked free of the vehicle. The Ranks, stunned, tried to exit the vehicle.

They ran into Yvlon. She blocked a sword thrust with one arm and her hand became spikes that pierced the [Assassin]s arm. He screamed.

Ceria shouted at Pisces.

Yvlons back there!

She jumped! Ill animate the bodies! Keep

The crossbows thumped. Pisces and Ceria took cover. She raised an ice barrier around them, but it slowed the chariot. Two more coaches left. [Assassins] with crossbows leaned out of the doors as they drew alongside the three Horns of Hammerad. Aiming

Ksmvr stood up. The [Assassins] had crossbows.

He had three. Each arm held one and the Ranks saw the Antinium open up his mandibles.

[Threefold Shot].

Instantly, one threw himself out of the carriage with a scream.

[Greater Dodge]!

What a great Skill. He might have been Level 20 if he was super lucky, or Level 30? Ksmvr saw the [Assassin] catch himself on the ground.

Huh? There had been no bolt

Ksmvr shot him in the chest. The [Assassin] went down. Ksmvr sighed.

Deficient.

Everyone could say a Skill. He took aim.

[Power Shot].

The other [Assassins] had taken cover. Nowthey hesitated. Was he bl

Two crossbows fired. Ksmvr missed one [Assassin], tagged the other in the thigh. He sat back down and pulled more crossbows out of his bag of holding. Then happily stood up and fired again. Crossbow Stans tactics. Ceria popped up.

Pisces!

[Shatterbolt].

[Ice Wall]!

Another carriage down. The Horns circled back for Yvlon. The last coach turned to fleePisces pointed.

[Acid Orb].

He hit the wheels. The Horns regrouped and turned. They were too far away. But they were coming.

Hold on, Ryoka.

Ceria muttered. She looked up. In the distance

The typhoon was creating a vortex in the skies.

-

The world dropped away below her. Ryoka gasped.

They were gone. Maviola, Saliss. The Guild of Assassins, Alevica, Mavika

Everything. At the end of it all, just as shed told Lyonette and Erinit did end this way. How would she deliver the cure to Tyrion Veltras?

Fly. She had known from the start that it wouldnt be this easy. But neither had she expected the magical typhoon to unleash itself here.

Lightning was striking the ground for countless miles around. Illuminating the world in moments of light. Everything else was dark. Rain soaked Ryoka in an instant, freezing her. The wind wasnt smashing her against the glideryet.

She refused to let go. Her harness creaked. Ryoka searched for some landmark to steer towards. But the world was a howling oblivion.

The groundoh no.

The rain intensified. And Ryokasuddenlylost track of the ground. It became a dark, rainy abyss below her. She had no idea where she was. And the wind refused to let her down.

Closer to the ground? Please? Pl

Up. Everything she had ever feared. She had done shorter glidesbut anything over fifty feet and the wind changed. It grew wilder. And

Suddenly, a gust hit the fragile glider and Human. The wind slammed into her. It was fierce, unrestricted. Not kind, up here. She felt her grip slipping and held on for her life.

No, no, put me down, put me

She flew higher. Above the magic trying to strike her far below. The wind carried her up, delighting in her, toying with the little craft in its skies.

There was both malice and innocence there. But it did not see her asa fragile mortal. She had called it as the fae did. And it bore her upwards.

too high too fast

A mile in a second. Too fast. Tooher ears popped again. Ryoka left her mind thousands of feet behind her. The wind was pulling at her. What a strange intruder in its skies! It listened to her willignored it.

She couldnt breathe. Frost was chilling the glider and herhandsthe grip loosened and it was only the belt and straps keeping her attached

She woke up when she dropped. Down again. Following some current. Nowshe was afraid. Ryoka tried to push at the wind, then persuade.

Listen to me. Please

The typhoon wrapped around her, blowing her at speeds that strained her vessels ability to move. Ryoka couldnt even inhale the rushing wind.

Suddenlythe air was angry. She felt its wrath, like a voice thundering in the void.

How dare you order me around? The wind is not your toy or thing to be commanded. How dare you, insignificant speck. I could splatter you

Or was it even listening? Had she any command over it? She could speak to the wind. Not give it orders. Why had she ever

Another snap of the winds that hurled her through the air. Limply, Ryoka clung to the glider with one hand. She was reaching for something. She had to

She thought she heard laughter. Not hers. Something in the storm?

Lightning flashed.

What was that shape? Larger than clouds.

Were they laughing at her?

Something around her. Ryoka gasped for air. Was that snow? No

Ivolethe?

She drew the little figurine from her belt pouch. For a moment, the wind seemed to calm. Ryoka clutched at it.

And her fingers, wet with rain, slipped. The icy figurine vanished from her fingers. Ryoka cried out. No!

The tiny statuette fell, glittering. She reached for it, as the blackness creeping around her vision made everything but that statuette a void.

Not that. Please! She saw

The statuette stopped in the air. It came back to her, borne by a gentle breeze amid the storm. Ryoka grabbed at it. How?

The cold burned her skin. And she realizedthe wind had heard her. Her desperation. She looked around, and her eyes cleared.

She felt them still. Like distant lighthouses amid the sea in the sky. Wistram, Fissival, this Circle, countless more. Wrestling with each other, trying to tame the magical typhoon. Grand [Mages] and fools with weather scrolls. And the wind was fighting them.

Fightingfighting magic, fighting the mortals that tried to control it. No wonder it was so mad. Even Ryoka. You couldnt demand things, even if you said please.

I see.

She thought she said it. Ryoka held onto the figurine. Then she put it away. She stopped trying to force the wind. She trusted to it

And the gales stopped. The wind that buffeted her, resisting her commands saying, go here, go there, slow me, send me up, send me down, relaxed.

She had no right to be up here, flying, and expect it to treat her like a mortal who needed not to be sent at the speed the wind always travelled. She did not know these winds, which blew at speeds unseen faster than anything else.

She was the breeze of the ground. Soif you would kindly forgive my mistake

The wind was a capricious, gracious host. Its fury relented. And like thatthe typhoon slowed. The magic caught in it evaporated. Ryoka felt the rains stop. The charge in the air dissipated.

Gentlyshe fell to earth. She thought

-

Ivol?

I thought I heard her voice, up there. In between slipping in and out of the world. Perhaps it was all in my mind. Or the truth lies between faith and magic.

My feet are bloody as the ground comes towards me. My body too tired for me to feel it. It doesnt matter. The run has to be completed.

The delivery. I hold the figurine for a moment. Wondering if shell speak to me again.

Ivolethe?

I will see you soon.

Then I touch the ground. I stumble, as I land. The wrecked glider lands around me and I let it lie. I feel like a stranger, rooted to the earth as I stumble forwards.

I dont know where I am. I could have been blown all the way to the east of Izril. I could be in Drake lands. I could be on Earth.

The grass pricks my feet. Unpleasant, painful. I ignore it, the blood. The bike

Im setting it up as they find me. So fast. I turn, raising my hands. Not fair! Not

A sheep stares at me. It goes bah. I sit down.

Five Families.

A voice speaks. I look around as the sun edges out more. And I realize

Im in a pasture. A gates open. And a man, a [Shepherd], is staring at me with wide eyes. I try to speak, and croak.

Wherewhere am I?

The stunned man and his herd of curious sheep surround me. The fellow scratches at his head. Then he looks at me. Clears his throat.

Six miles outside of House Veltras lands, Miss. The Forest of Vail lies ahead. If you go around ityoull reach your destination.

Myhow do you know that?

Im afraid, for one second, that Im being toyed with by some sinister [Sheep Assassin]. But the [Shepherd] just shakes his head.

All of Izril knows of you, Miss Wind Runner. Hurry. Do you need

He reached for a potion, but Im already on the bike. The end of my journey waits for me. Just a bit longer, Ivolethe.

-

They dont know where the Runner is, milord.

A voice pierced the boys mind. Coming from far away. He heard the sounds of despair in a voice that had never held it for him.

His fathers. Hethon Veltras lay in a bed far too hot. He wasdying. It was not slow, or silent.

He was coughing so hard he couldnt inhale. A [Healer] was desperately trying to get him to breathe. SammySammial was worse.

They have no time. Lord Veltras

Its

The [Lord] was turning, trying to do something. But the typhoon had obscured hope once more. Hethon struggled to say it, through his swollen throat. Just for a moment, hed felt it. The burning that had consumed himhad been relieved.

Its cool.

No one heard him. But SammyHethons closed eyes roamed, searching. He tried to tell them, but he was too tired.

The wind was coming. They babbled, and Ullim buried his head in his hands, in despair. He didnt understand. Hethon closed his eyes. He had heard it, felt it for a second, on his cheek.

The wind was blowing his way. He begged it to come quicker.

-

At the end of her run, Ryoka Griffin was tired. Just tired.

Glory had come and gone, fleeting.

Tragedy had struck. She would weep more for it later.

She had seen bravery, grand deeds. Endings and continuations and magnificent trickery.

Nowshe was exhausted. Let it be over. For better or worse, give her rest.

Surely they felt the same, her hunters. On either sidelet us make an end to this.

But the trick to the run was that you didnt get to quit when you felt like it. A mile cared nothing for how you felt. You ran the mile, and then the next.

She left the glorious, magical bike behind, stumbling on. Something had damaged it; it had grown harder to pedal. Then, perhaps from the landing, all the fighting

The chain had snapped. Ironically, she had no replacement. No magically forged links easy-at-hand, and no way to repair the enchanted metal.

She would have gone back, taken the few seconds to put it in her bag of holding. But she had no more time. Not a single second, anymore.

Her fate had led her across Izril, defying death with help and luck. Perhaps as some vengeance, it had led them here. A bit of fairness the other way.

Three [Assassins] followed her. One was a [Trapmaster], withdrawing an enchanted crossbow. The second, a [Blademaster]. The last, an [Alchemist] with one arm who had caught up after escaping the [Knights].

They had no idea where the others were. Luck had seen them spot the distant figure, landing. It didnt matter. The world could be nothing more than this road, with the Runner on it. With no more contracts, no Guild, no future. And they would still hunt her down for bringing their Guild to ruin.

For pride of the job. All they had in this world.

The Wind Runner looked back one last time. Ferin fired the crossbow. The first bolt went wide; he was no [Marksman]. It hit the dirt a dozen feet to her left. He reloaded as he ran after her. The quarry was exhausted.

But too close. Far too close to her destination.

No more speeches. This was the end of the run.

It ended with the most fitting of things. A footrace to the finish line. A delivery. [Assassins]. A Runner.

And a Courier.

-

Salamani the Mage Runner stopped as he saw the three ahead of him. He was panting, at the end of his own endurance.

He had run from Invrisil to this point. A Couriers speed. Ryoka and her friends had run fastbut they had been dogged the entire way by the Guild. He had clashed with them twice.

Ah.

The Courier drew his wand. The Faces turned, sensing him behind them. The Courier fell into step. He had been searching so hard for Ryoka.

Not just for her cure. He could have broken past them, perhaps, grabbed the cureand she surely would have given it to himand finished the run.

But then she would die. A harder package to deliver safely. The hardest delivery he had run yet.

Just a minute. That was all he needed. Salamani saluted the distant City Runner. Then the Courier looked around.

Impossible.

Someone else was coming their way. A figure. Notwo.

The Moonlight Rider stopped next to Salamani. He was panting.

How they hell are you here?

How are you two?

We were doing the delivery from the port. You were at Invrisil.

I ran. Shes not exactly faster than we are.

Tritel shook his head. He drew a crossbow slowly.

Three of em. Theyre not the ones we got past, are they?

No. You can always ride away, Tritel.

I have a booth with my name on it. I dont think Ill get to use it ifand besides. What kind of Courier lets a City Runner do their run for them?

Ci snorted. Salamani looked at Tritel.

You softhearted liar.

Shut up, Salamani. Besidesif you think Im the stupid one, youre not going to believe whats going to happen next.

The Mage Runner looked around.

No way. He wouldnt ever

A pair of bunny ears. A third Courier slowed. Salamani stared at Hawk. It was impossible. Hawk the Hare? Hawk the Coward?

The Couriers eyes were still red. Coward indeed, the Drake had named him. Coward, too afraid to do the right thing.

Heartbreak was a terrible curse. It made fools out of everyone.

Hawk

The Courier walked past them.

Ferin looked back, then ahead at Ryoka. Why now? Why

Justice for the first run theyd done. The Couriers said nothing more. They moved forwards. So before, now.

The [Assassins] turned towards them.

Bastards. Kill them. Were the Guild. Theyre

Couriers. The Moonlight Rider urged his mare into a gallop. His crossbow sang at the same time as Ferins. The Mage Runner of Wistram drew his magic out of the sky, arrows of light.

Hawk the Hare of Liscor ran forwards. He attacked Mire with a shout.

-

Ryoka Griffin looked back and saw the battle. Tritel was riding, firing his crossbow and slashing with a sword. Salamani was fighting the [Alchemist] as Hawk dodged the [Blademaster].

No.

But they were buying hershe pumped her legs. Her head rose. Her body moved, and Ryoka ignored whatever was telling her she had to stop.

Behind her, the Couriers fell back. No easy Ranks falling to their Skills. Hawk blurred around the [Blademaster]. He kicked and the man cried out, his sword wavering.

[Valmiras Comet].

Salamani shot one at near point-blank range. Somehow, the [Blademaster] cut it in half. Mire knocked him a dozen feet onto the ground. Stunnedhe saw Hawk deal the [Alchemist] a blow that sent her sprawling. The [Blademaster] stabbed Hawk in the back. The Courier screamed once.

Before the [Blademaster] could twist the blade and take the Beastkins life, Tritel abandoned his duel with the [Trapmaster].

Ci, fly!

She leapt. Up, upwards. The Moonlight Rider abandoned sword. He drew his crossbow, aimed straight down.

Thunk. The [Blademaster] fell. Mire stared at the bolt protruding from the peerless swordsmans right eye socket. Her nerve broke. She ran.

Tritel landed. The [Blademaster], who had never given Ferin his name, who had been just a classstaggered. He had let go of his sword. He drew a daggerthrew it.

It was the act of a [Warrior] who refused to die even when dealt a death-blow. Hawk lay on the ground, bleeding. Salamani screamed as the dagger went through his shoulder and nailed him to the earth. He struggled to get up, but the blade was burning him, setting his robes alight.

Tritel!

The Moonlight Rider turned as the [Blademaster] collapsed at last, his last effort gone. He looked around.

Snap. The wires clashed together. Salamani saw them go through Tritel and Ci. He made a sound.

The [Trapmaster]. Ferin was running after Ryoka, abandoning his wires, his comrades, dead and fleeing. He had a crossbow in hand. He never even looked back.

Tritel and Ci. The Moonlight Rider actually stayedtogetherfor a heartbeat. Bloodhis body had been severed in countless places, in countless ways. So had Ci.

A period of space shorter than a second in time. A moment. As immortal as the death coming for both of them. Tritel, short, stocky, a [Hostler] who had become a Courier, looked down at his mare, his friend.

Ci, the Moonlight Horse. Sinking. As perfect as he was not. The Moonlight Riderspoke. One last Skill.

[One Dies Before The Other]. Im sorry, Ci.

Salamani, trying to rise, heard the Couriers voice. He looked up.

Blood on the ground. Someone rose on shaky legs.

Ci. The horse snorted, amazed. Then looked around for her friend. He was lying there. A smile on his face. The kind of Skill you saved for the end.

-

So she ran. And they both had that thought.

They might have been friends. For a moment, they had liked each other. Now? They hated each other more than anything else.

Stop.

Ryoka did not. Ferin took aim. This time, he did not miss.

The first bolt went through her shoulder and out the other side. She stumbled, but kept going. The armor-piercing bolt was too powerful. Ryokas body didnt even slow it. Cursing, the [Trapmaster] reloaded.

She was running faster than she ever had. Without magic. Without the wind. But still faster, her form perfect. But she was just Human.

He shot her through the lower back, just missing the spine. This time she fell. But she got back up.

Stop.

As if there were any point for either of them? He reloaded. Fired again.

Artery. Her leg was pinned. She kept moving.

Even if I crawl. The [Assassin] reached for the final bolt. He aimed at her from afar. Then, he adjusted his aim.

Fired. The bolt flew through the air, a deadly missile. But of coursethe [Lord] knocked it out of the air.

How far were they from their destination? It didnt matter anymore. The Couriers, the wind

Salamani the [Mage] Runner had finished his delivery first. And it was just words. Coordinates.

Lord Tyrion Veltras rode towards the [Assassin]. Ryoka Griffin didnt even see him. She was crawling, thinking the last bolt was coming for her.

Ferin could have shot her. But for a moment, hed been flawed. An imperfect weapon.

Hed wanted to live. What a blunder.

He had left his wires behind. The [Assassin] drew a long dagger, slowly. The lancehe called out as the [Lord] rode at him.

-

The Banner of House Veltras flew in the winds. Jericha held it aloft as she surged behind Lord Tyrion. Behind her lay chaos and bloodshed. But only on one side.

-

The House of Veltras has mobilized its army. Theyve killed every agent around the manor! All of them in a hundred miles!

The Circle of Thorns listened. They felt the winds shift.

-

Ullim stood with a sword bared, over the two young [Lords]. He looked towards the window, watchful.

Hurry, my lord.

-

Ryoka Griffin was trying to run. Then crawl. She didnt stop. She pulled herself forwardsuntil she met a foot.

A metal boot, rather. Since it was an aberration, she stopped.

Taketake it to House Veltras. Lord Tyrion.

She mumbled. Someone knelt.

I am Lord Tyrion Veltras.

Ryoka tried to raise her head. She saw the outline of a stern face. Felt cold liquid on her back, amid the void of emptiness. She fearedthe mans face changed.

Delivery. Delivery for Lord Veltras. Do you have a seal?

The Wind Runner giggled. The [Lord] knelt. Beyond him, a figure wrapped in dark clothing waited. An army was coming down the road. But for a moment, he spoke and listened.

What is your name, Courier?

Just Runner. City Runner.

Thenwhat is it?

He knew. But she gasped it anyways.

Ryoka Griffin.

The [Lord] nodded. He looked down at her. The wound refusing to quite heal despite the magical liquid. He spoke, slowly, memorizing her face.

I will remember it forever. Do you have it?

It was covered in her blood. The vial shook as she tried to lift it.

Here. A spoonful

[Healer]! Lord Veltras, shes lost too much bloodsurround the killer!

Jericha leapt from her saddle with a second healing potion. Tyrion held up a hand.

I will deal with that one myself. Take the cure, Jericha.

Yes, my lord!

Galloping hooves. Ryoka lay there, relaxing. Was it done? Yet, the [Lord] remained a moment.

Ryoka Griffin. Why did you take the cure to me against all these odds? For money? Fame?

He soundedbaffled. Curious. Ryoka tried to speak. It was allhazy.

I need you to come tohelp me. Party

It was really hard to explain. Tyrions face shifted. Grew more distant.

Of course. Whatever it is

He began to rise. Ryoka murmured into the dust as people surrounded her.

And

The Lord of House Veltras paused. He leaned back down. Ryoka spoke that singular truth about her. Maddening. Yether.

It was the right thing to do. Please. Take it. Save them.

Tyrion looked at her. Then he knelt and bowed his head. He took her hand a moment.

Thank you. I will repay this debt.

He rose as Ryoka Griffin closed her eyes and sighed.

It was done.

-

The last Face of the Guild stood with arms spread. His white hair, a mark of pride, ruffled in the wind. The [Lord] had stopped to see to the Runner lying on the ground.

His soldiers waited behind him, cutting off the [Assassin]s escape. But he had not tried to. There would be no point. Not with the [Lord] standing in front of him.

Lord Tyrion Veltras did not mount his horse. He slowly drew his sword as the limp City Runner was taken away. Or perhaps only her body?

It mattered not. The old [Assassin] called out, as the [Lord] advanced, slowly.

Iam Ferin the Threadbearer. [Assassin] of Izril! A Face of the Guild of Assassins!

He met the [Lord] with the lone dagger in hand. Tyrion Veltras walked forwards, lifting sword and shield. Too late, the [Assassin] realized. It was not a mark of respect. The [Lord] walked forwards.

I have no intention of remembering your name.

He swung his sword once. Someone handed him a bit of cloth and he tossed it down. When he turned, a nameless body lay on the ground. Blood soaking a book until the ink and parchment were useless.

-

It took them longer to know what happened. And when it didit was just Drassi. She stood there, as the connection cleared.

The run is over. The Wind Runner of Reizmelt has delivered the cure to House Veltras. The Circle of Thorns and Guild of Assassins have been declared the enemy of the Five Families and all of Izril. North and south. The Moonlight Rider, Tritel, is dead. His horse, Ci, has survived. At the end of itthree Couriers stood against the Guild of Assassins to allow the Wind Runner to reach her destination. Salamani the Mage Runner, Tritel the Moonlight Rider, and Hawk the Hare.

Selys stared at Drassis face. The Drake went on, soberly.

Salamani and Hawk are alive. But injured. As for Miss Ryokawe do not know. House Veltras reports she is in a [Healer]s care, but she lost anan egregious amount of blood. She has not woken up. Many peoples fates are unknown. Maviola El. Saliss of Lightsthere are confirmed deaths from the fighting. The Harbormistress of First Landing, Gresaria Wellfar. The [Lord] and sole heir of House Everight, Lord Toldos

On the cast went. No more action. Just Drassi, listing names. The cost.

Erin sat there. How many of her friends had fallen? Ryoka? Mrsha was crying and being hugged. The others were murmuring as they finally counted the costs.

But the delivery was done. Andnot all of them had fallen. Not all. Born of the wind that had rushed from Invrisil to House Veltras were deaths, tragedy, brave acts. They died and some continued.

-

Ser Kerrig raised his head as he stood over Dame Truvia. The [Knights] of Izril had borne a bloody cost from this one battle.

There should have been ten times our number. A hundred.

He spoke to a silent [Knight] of the Clairei Fields, the only one to survive of her Order. The woman nodded silently.

There would be. Knight-Commander Calirn looked at Izril, at the brave souls. For the first time, he removed the tome in his Orders hallowed library. To consult their laws on the establishing of a new branch, a new headquarters of his order. Or perhapsanother?

-

She replaced me. Bethal. Pryde. All of them moved for her. She left a trail of blood to do it.

Not what you would have done?

Magnolia Reinhart shook her head.

I would have let one man suffer. Two children die if it came to that. The Flowers of Izrilat least two dozen lie dead. The Guild is in ruins. And the Circle

She turned away.

Perhaps I lacked her courage for such things. I

She trailed off. What else could be said? She disagreed. She disagreed with Erin. But she had left. So she turned back.

I cede it to Erin Solstice and Ryoka Griffin. Let us go to Oteslia, Ressa.

She looked at a stranger, who sat there in the mirror. A girl with a white flagMagnolia had never been that. But the person upon whom Izril had once turned? Magnolia Reinhart looked away.

-

Life. Damned life. Flourishing like a weed, despite the vines and shadows trying to choke it. To what end? Why, when so many had died and they had tried to be the ones to pay the price that had to be paid?

Why, fate? She stood amid the ashes, howling upwards at the sky. A burned landscape of ash around her.

Maviola El.

Not here? Not yet? Where am I supposed to die?

The [Lady] wept. For her friend. For uncertainty and the future. For powerhow was she supposed to spend it, if not here? Was there a plan?

-

Rain fell in other places. Born up by completely natural cycles. Evaporating, condensing, emitting drops from the heavens. Not made of magic; no more tampering with the heavens today.

The river had been diverted by the massive explosion that had consumed the area. Alreadya lake was forming. A trench, carved of the forces wrought here.

It had changed the world in no small way. In later days, they would go on to call it Saliss Wake. After the Named Adventurer who had created it.

A Drakes touch in Human lands. But for now, the waters rushed into the gap in the ground as most of the alchemical elements dispersedor, troublinglysunk to the bottom of the new body of water. Then moved on, streaming downriver.

The rain fell. Drizzling, rather than pouring. It carried debris, bodies downriver, another hazard. Casualty of war.

A body floated in the water. After a while, it spat out some of the water. Saliss of Lights floated downstream.

Water is wet.

He made no effort to swim. Just floated downriver until someone found him. He felt sort of relaxed after all that.

-

Some lived, some died. But the run of it, ah. Mihaela Godfrey was short of breath. She had dragged herself out of her bed, despite her broken legs. The Runners Guild of First Landing had reclaimed a fraction of its pride in the fight for the city.

But the Couriers at the end had done almost all of it. Still, she looked at the Couriers and Runners in her Guild. Her voice rasped.

You all saw it. You saw them. Her. No City Runner could have made that run. Not even a Courier alone. And no City Runner made that run. Did she?

No!

The Couriers answered her. Mihaela nodded. You poor girl. Too much like Valceif for your own good. But it was done.

-

Courier was just a word. It was an artificial ranking. It had meant more and less in other times. Just call them Runner. It could be a word, like Todi opined, for a profession. Or it could mean bravery, selflessness, something more than a job description.

A City Runner could do what a Courier could not. Deliver Izrils pride unto itself. Yes, a City Runner, unseen, but brave and swift

She jogged towards the distant manor. Hero? Well, if you wanted to call her that. The City Runner moved swiftly, confident, but watchful.

She could have arrived two hours earlier, but shed stopped for a nap and to make herself properly presentable. Change of clothes, a wash, some subtle makeup

It had rained like hell so shed gotten out of that. No sense risking your neck to being impaled by a branch. The City Runner was tired, but triumphant. She had done it.

She hadnt been near a scrying orb or civilization for the last two days since beginning her run. Even so, shed dodged two [Assassins], had to actually fight to escape one. And a monster!

Still, it was wise to be humble. Legends grew in the retelling. The truth was shed done her run properly.

In secret. After all, what kind of fool would have done an open run, especially with how much time it would take? She had made it fast, and the cure was secure in her bag of holding.

Persua knew this last stretch would be the most deadly. Shepaused as she saw House Veltras was surrounded by an army of [Soldiers].

What was happening? Perhaps Lord Tyrions patience had snapped. Urgently, she ran for the keep

Halt! What is your business with House Veltras?

Five squads converged on her. Persua threw up her arms, but with confidence as she halted.

Let me through! And pleaseguard me to the keep! I have the cure for Lord Tyrion!

The [Soldiers] stared at her. Persua reached for the vial, a dagger in her other hand. She waited for the Guild to make its attempt. But shed fight through! She

She looked at their incredulous faces. Which waswhat you expected. Incredulity at the bravery ofbut something was wrong. Persua faltered.

Thethe cure? I have it? Hello?

-

Events both insignificant and important. Too many to count. Fallout.

Erin Solstice sat in her inn at the end of it. No, not the end. She spoke to Mrsha, softly.

Shell be okay.

Mrsha looked up at the [Innkeeper]. She hadnt stopped crying. But Erin did what the others couldnt. She clarified her words.

Maybe not fine. But Ryoka wont die. Shes too Ryoka for that. You know her.

The Gnoll child hesitated. Something about that reassured her. Or gave her enough to stop crying. Erin Solstice rose, patting Mrsha.

You need to sleep.

Mrsha protested, but Lyonette gathered her into her arms. Erin herself yawned. She had not really rested. And oh, but it was over. Yet there would be more after this. There always was.

The Wandering Inn. The Wind Runner. Maviola El. Saliss of Lights.

Burn them into your memory.

They wont forget what you did here.

For a moment, Erin thought it was Maviola speaking. But it was Olesm. The [Strategist] looked at her. He was waiting for news of Maviola. So was Erin. He feared the worst. To distract himself, he looked at Erin.

You need to take precautions. No one will forgetthis.

He waved at the scrying mirror, recapping events again and again, getting perspectives. Like Menolit, speaking to Noass on the streets of Liscor.

I was there. I fought! Erin smiled briefly. Newsworthy. She looked back at Olesm and smiled a bit. Not with happiness. But resolve.

Thats fine. Because Ill do it again. Again, and again. Only next timeIll do it better. Ill build a bigger inn. Find more people. Get stronger. Make sure no one has to die next time.

He nodded slowly. Olesm looked at Erin, as so many tended to do now and then. Now and then.

No one could have done that alone. Not Saliss, or Maviola, or Ryoka or

He gestured at her. Erin sighed. Why did everyone give her so much credit?

And I didnt do all of it. Not by a long shot! Who were those [Witches]? I didnt ask the CouriersThe Wandering Inn isnt capable of making miracles.

He clearly didnt agree with that. Erin paused. The [Innkeeper] went on, after a moment.

Alone. What I mean isthat wasnt my run. I wasnt Ryoka. But here

She looked around. At her guests, towards the future, and then back at Olesm. The [Innkeeper] pointed down at her feet.

Here. The adventure begins here.

Authors Note: I think thatll do. More to come. More events after this one. But here we are.

Longer than I thought. 5-8,000 words longer, honestly. I thought there wasnt much more to write. But drama

Well, I hope it was satisfactory. Not happy, since thats not exactly what I was going for. But complete. Fulfilling even if youre upset.

Thusmight end the long chapters. For now. You can see why I put so much into them. And perhaps I can rest myself. Im tired.

This is not the end of Volume 7. Not yet. Butwell see. Thanks for reading.

The art for this chapter is going to be nostalgic. The Necromancer and a certain trio on patrol by Anna! Also, Ryoka Griffin by Juliette Taka. Finally, and perhaps inappropriately? The Horns of Hammerad by Seenkay for their critical part in the chapter! Give them all lots of love!

On Patrol and the [Necromancer] by Anna /Stearnling

Ryoka by Juliette Taka!