Book 8: Chapter 28

Book 8: Chapter 28

Two words. The inn had waited for them for so long. Two words; a Skill, it had waited for its owner to return and bring magic and time to a standstill.

[Immortal Moment].

Yet it was the wrong voice who spoke. The wrong woman stood in the common room of the inn. Her eyes were not hazel. If there was kindness in those depths, it was merely the remnants of the emotion, trapped within the layers of undeath by someone who had forgotten what the word truly meant.

The inn warped around her. The air itself seemed to flee her presence. Here was an old [Witch]. The Stitch Witch, some called her.

Belavierr.

She was angry. Her eyes flashed with ire, not dispassionate observation. She stood at the door leading to the bright sunlit [Garden of Sanctuary] and could not get in. The inns defenders charged at her.

Belavierr spoke the two words and the world went dark. The inn itself?

Vanished.

Mrsha saw it happen. The girl looked past the [Witch], who was so tall that the tip of her hat seemed in danger of brushing the lowest beams in the common room, Moore-tall, at Numbtongue behind her. He was frozen in the act of slicing for her neck, having failed his first killing blow.

He disappeared as shadows blew forwards like clouds, covering him, his sword, his glowing crimson eyes. Mrsha made a sound in the back of her throat. A cry of fear. She looked at the [Witch], and saw the rest of the inn consumed.

Dragged into darkness. Mrsha, horrified, backed away. Waswas the entire inn gone? Had Belavierr eaten them?

There the [Witch] stood. She looked down at Mrsha, awkwardly, amid the darkness. Amid oblivion?

NoMrsha realized. The [Immortal Moment]. It had swallowed everything, trapping her, Rufelt, and Lasica in this little space where the sun still shone down, unmoving, from the dome in the center of the garden. Past Belavierr and the doorwaythere was nothing.

She had eaten the world with her Skill. Mrshas heart thundered in her chest, becausebecauseshe knew that Skill, of course.

It was Erins Skill. One of her best ones, no matter how early shed earned it. Her beautiful, even scary Skill, that made precious moments, important ones, last.

But Erin could not do this. Belavierr was stronger.

That terrified Mrsha. The [Witch] terrified her. Mrsha had felt it the instant Belavierr set foot in the inn. Her fur had stood right up on end. As if charged. She had felt something in her tummy.

Something dark. Clawing to get out. The [Witch] stood there, not pressed up against the door. Mrsha had seensomethingwhen she had tried to get in.

A thing that was not Human at all. Belavierr didnt look like thatbut she was still bad at pretending to be

Hello, little girl. Wont you let me in?

Mrsha stared as the [Witch] bent slightly. Belavierrs lips parted. She smiled at Mrsha. Likesomeone who had been told what that looked like but never done it. Even Antinium smiled better than she did.

The Gnoll girl backed up slowly, on all fours. Her eyes were wide. Belavierr tilted her head left and right.

What should be said? Little girl, I am very friendly. My name is Belavierr. Wont you let me inside? You see, it is hard to enter without an invitation. I promise, I will not hurt you. You see?

She reached up and removed the dark blue hat. Belavierr gestured at it.

I promise on my hat. I promise on my craft. Please let me in. I will reward you.

Mrsha stared at her. Then both heard a choked sound from behind the Gnoll.

B-Belavierr. What have you done?

The [Witch]s eyes flickered past Mrsha, and a look ofsinister satisfactionpassed over her face. She smiled, but it was not a nice smile. She looked quite a bit more experienced at that.

Rufelt Owelt. Lasica Feltail. I told you. I wished to speak to you. You have changed your minds so quickly. Let us talk.

Rufelt and Lasica were standing behind Mrsha. They had gone still with horror as the inn vanished. They held each other, both shaking slightly. Rufelts voice was stuttery.

W-we told you we denied you, Belavierr. You do not offer us fair deals. We were tormented by you.

Lasica nodded as well, the [Cook]s scales grey with fear.

Thats right. Ive spoken to Rufelt, Witch Belavierr. Weweve changed our minds. I want to live with him. So we decline your offer, politely. We cannot make a deal without the consent of all. Youcannot.

She said that last bit hopefully. Mrsha was still standing in front of the door, trying to see out. Numbtongue! Was he hurt? How had Belavierr survived being stabbed?

Who was she?

Mrsha had no grounding for who or what Belavierr was. She did not know the stories that had made Bezale shudder. She did not even know how Ryoka had met Belavierr; some stories the Wind Runner told only to the grownups.

A vague memory nudged Mrshas head. Ryoka hadnt told her details about her run in Riverfarm, only that Drakes had done bad things and the fire andshe had said, hadnt she? She had run into a scary [Witch].

Mrsha had never heard Belavierrs name come up, but it seemed to her there were no coincidences. Which of coursethere were not.

The couple stood before Belavierr as the [Witch] regarded them. Belavierr was odd. She could not hide her emotions well, Mrsha realized. It seemed like she could, as her face would go blank, or remain disquietingly still when talking or moving. Yet when she was annoyed, like now, she showed it. She was not good at hiding her emotions. She just hadless.

Right now, she looked annoyed. She looked annoyedthen gave that fake-smile she had given to Mrsha. A [Saleswoman] with two stubborn clients.

I understand you have changed your mind, Lasica, Rufelt. But you have hadinterference. Allow me an hour to change it back. I am sure I am able to.

She reached out, and her fingers pressed flat against the air. Rufelt shuddered as Belavierr felt at the barrier in the doorway, invisible, inviolate.

I am sure you can as well. Weour minds are made up. We refuse. Please leave.

It was a poor injunction. Mrsha felt sure it wouldnt work. Even Olesm, conscientious Olesm, wouldnt leave if you said it like that.

Sure enough, Belavierr didnt so much as blink. Had she blinked yet?

That is unacceptable, Rufelt. I will have my say. Come out. Time will not resume until we have time to talk. This is my Skill. To ensure we come to a fair decision.

Fair?

Rufelt looked at the [Witch] incredulously. She just smiled.

Let me in, Rufelt. I promise I wont harm you. Invite me in.

The Gnoll wavered. Then barked a response.

No! Begone! We do not want you here!

The shout made Belavierrs brows cross. And againno one here could know why she reacted the way she did. Slowly, the [Witch] drew herself up. Eyes narrowed.

I am tired of being told that word. I will have my say. Let me in, Rufelt. Let me in, Lasica. Quickly. Before I begin to becomeangry.

The last word was charged with intent, such that the husband and wife quailed. It was Lasicas turn to stutter.

N-no. Belavierr, didnt you promise it was my choice? Leave, please.

You did not come to your choice alone. Someone interfered. This place interferes. Do you care nothing for your dead daughter? I can bring her back. You are not seeing clearly. Let. Me. In.

Now there was a trembling. Did it come from the garden or the inn? The two backed away slowly.

No. Noyou cant. Leave us! Please?

Belavierr fixed Rufelt and Lasica with a stare that stopped their hearts for a beat. Butthey were both as strong as Erin. They were both the best [Bartender] and [Chef] in Pallass; that was why she wanted them. They resisted her, speaking defiance. So Belavierrs gaze became more vivid, more hostile, but she looked around.

Little girl. Little girl? Where did you go?

She pressed closer, hands pushingthen caught herself. Almost guiltily. With a shake of her head, Belavierr straightened. She frowned, and then put two long forefingers to her face.

So tricky. So difficult. How did it go? Ah, yes. Little girl?

She made a smiley face with her fingers. As if her lips had gotten tired of the gesture and needed help. Belavierr peered right and left and found Mrsha.

The little Gnoll froze, creeping left, to stare around Belavierrs dark dress; she had been trying to see anything in the darkness. Now

Belavierr squatted down so fast Mrsha tumbled backwards. Yet the [Witch] just hovered there, squatting. She kept her lips smiling with help from her fingers.

I am a [Witch], little girl. Do not mind the silly adults. Have you ever met a [Witch] before? We are creatures of our word. Wont you invite me in? All you need do is say yes. I will not harm you. In factI will reward you, see?

Then, Belavierr reached into her robes. Mrsha wanted to back up, but the ringed stare had rooted her. Like she stood before a serpent ready to strike, orMrshas eyes fixed on something Belavierr drew from a pocket.

Look at this. Isnt it beautiful? See?

The [Witch] drew a dancing marionette on strings. It wasa little Gnoll. A carved Gnoll figure, with golden brown fur, who danced with amazing articulation as Belavierr held up a little cross, controlling it.

See how it dances and bobs? It is a toy I am sure you have never seen. I make such things. I will give it to you if you let me in. Where did this garden come from, little girl? It should not be here. Oh well. Let me in and you may have this. It is a gift fit for a [Prince]! It is not cursed, see? It is just a lovely toy. It will play with you. Defend you, even. It is a gift worth far more than letting me through a door, but it is yours.

As she spoke, trying to convince Mrsha, Belavierr made the figure dance and spin, kicking its legs up, waving at Mrsha, beckoning, pointingand then at the end, she let go and the figure danced by itself, despite no one holding the strings.

It was no doubt a gift worthy of an artifact, as advanced magically as the Box of Wonders owned by Brigandas son, Cade. Probably more so. However, the [Witch] hadnt caught up with the times.

At the sight of the dancing marionette, Mrshas natural horror made her back up until she was nearly behind Lasica and Rufelt. She gave the dancing figure a look of such deep mistrust that even Belavierr recognized it. She frowned.

No? Do children not love such toys, anymore? What about this?

She pulled out a something that was like a dreidel, for those from Earth, a spinning toponly, instead of having four sides like the Earth versionthis one somehow had sixteen, and yet each seemed large enoughif you stared at it.

It will spin and spin without you needing to touch it! But when you doit will predict the future, see? Dont you want it?

Mrsha hesitated. That sounded more interesting. In a vacuum, she might have accepted one. Coming from Belavierr? She shook her head.

Mrsha, dont

Rufelts words were cut off. Mrsha looked up in alarm. The Gnoll clutched at his throat.

Ah. I am making a deal with the child.

Belavierr looked up, almost wagging her finger. Rufelt and Lasica were helpless, even to gesture at Mrsha. The [Witch] frowned.

Little girl, are you that afraid of me? Come closer, come closer. I promise not to hurt you if you let me in. I bear you no will at all. If you let me injust reach out and let me take your paw. I will give youthis. Children love f

She pulled out a handful of what might have been treats. Centuries, millennia ago. Mrsha stared at the petrified worm halfway protruding out from what had been some kind of snack. The worm had turned to stone. Belavierr stared at it, and slowly discarded the snack.

Hm. It has been a while. What aboutthis? This is worth more than both gifts together, child. See?

She held out a crystal flute, delicate glass blown without seams or flaw. It was beautiful, colored light blue. It even had bits of light that danced as you blew it! Mrsha thought it was wonderful. Belavierr blew it and it sounded like a raven calling.

It can sound like any song in the world if you play it right. Is it not delightful? Come, take it.

She held it out, just before the door. Rufelt and Lasica tried to shake their heads. Mrsha didnt move.

Mainly because it was still Belavierr. The little Gnoll was impressed, butshe was a bit hurt. How stupid did the [Witch] think she was? Not even Ekirra would fall for this!

He might have fallen for the next part. Belavierr drew out a little bag. And then she placed sixteen fat gold coins down.

How about coin, child?

They were not gold coins as Mrsha knew them. Each one was nearly twice the size, stamped with foreign faces. And they looked likeactual gold. They smelled like it too.

This is gold from [Pirates]. A fortune for you and your family. You would be a fool not to take it.Fôllôw new stories at novelhall.com

Belavierr coaxed. She saw Mrsha cross her arms. The [Witch] frowned. She had no way of knowing that Aunt Selys had changed Mrshas views on gold. The girl had also been raised by a [Princess]; she had standards on bribes.

Come to that, Mrsha had a Goblin big brother who routinely chucked raw gemstones at her. So when Belavierr produced a sapphire as big as Mrshas paw, the Gnoll shook her head.

It was funny, but Belavierr took longer than most to be exasperated. She just looked confusedbut then clearly, slowly began to getcross. She offered Mrsha more items.

Jewels, gold, toys! A wand fit for a child, with a glowing tip that would never go dark. A little sword forged from the broken blade of a hero. A treasure map so faded with age it turned to dust when Belavierr put it down, a pet birdshe stared at what she half-pulled out and put it back before offering that.

Nothing worked. And what confused Belavierr, plainly, was the lack of a response she got from the little Gnoll. Only a shake of the head, a frownno words.

Little girl, what holds your tongue?

At last, Belavierr frowned. Only then did she look at Mrsha. Oh, her eyes had been in the right places. But it seemed she had never focused on Mrsha before. She did so now and Mrshas fur stood right back up. The Gnoll girl, who had been growing amused by Belavierrs frustration, suddenly stopped smiling.

She stood in front of two spotlights for eyes. The orange and black rings drew her in. Deeper, deeperMrsha felt herself flying forwards. Belavierr drew higher, until she towered above Mrsha like a true giant.

The [Witch] looked down, and suddenly Mrsha stood amid orange light. The color of her eyes. There, above her, impossibly distant, impossibly vast, was Belavierr.

Mrsha heard the thundering of her heart. She saw the [Witch] behold her, and she saw everything Mrsha was. Mrsha?

She saw part of what Belavierr was and would have screamed. For what she saw was in that distant giant, a hundred million twisting threads. They made her up, each one thinner than the hairs of Mrshas fur. Somehow, Mrsha saw it all in terrible detail and realized that Belavierr was part that.

But part of her lay still deeper, behind that layer. Mrsha saw the eyes blink

And fell deeper. The orange light carried her down another level of infinity. She floated in a sea without luminescence save for the beam of fulvous mixed with amber. Gold blended with rust mixed with dying embers.

Something was in this sea. Something swam or floated without water. Mrsha looked down and Belavierr looked up. Onlyit wasnt the [Witch]. It had her shape. But she was made up of something.

Little hearts. Each one pierced with a needle, joined together by a single thread. The [Witch] floated there and looked up at Mrsha. There were gaps where she should have been. Some hearts were burned, black, barely beating.

Someone had hurt her. Yet still, Belavierr looked up. Her eyes met Mrshas and Mrsha felt herself fall through another ring in the eyes. Deeper

-

Curious.

Belavierr blinked. Mrsha stopped falling. She lay on the ground, panting, flailing wildly, before she recovered. Whatwhat was

That was why Rufelt and Lasica were frozen in horror. That was what Ryoka had once seen. When Belavierr looked at you, you looked back and wished you had not.

A white Gnoll child? Curious. Your name is Mrsha. You wear a little charm, girl. Not enough.

Mrsha stared down at the pendant supposed to keep [Appraisal] and [Scrying] spells off her. She looked up. Belavierr glanced at her.

And you do not speak. I see. But will you not take my hand? See? I will give you all the presents I showed you. Let me in.

She knelt once more, offering a hand. Mrsha looked at Belavierr. At last, after seeing Belavierr and being seen, Mrsha was moved to speak.

Heck no! You scary thing! Go away!

Well, she didnt say that. She signed it with her paws, having left all the writing materials outside. It was only for Mrsha, not Belavierrs benefit, but she felt better.

And then the [Witch] got scarier, if that were possible. Belavierr tilted her head sideways at Mrshas flashing paws. Her head twisted right, twisted left, and then it went nearly 90sideways.

Mrsha heard the click-click-click of the [Witch]s neck, but Belavierr didnt bat an eyelid.

That was horrifying. But the [Witch] whispered.

[True Translation]. Me? Scary, little one? How rude.

Mrsha froze, paws raised. She stared at Belavierr. The [Witch] regarded her, frowning. Then looked up.

Lasica and Rufelt had been paralyzed this entire time, unable to break into the negotiations. It seemed though, that Mrshas final, and only comment had meant it failed.

Mrsha, back away from the door. Belavierr, you are not allowed in here! We know your Skill! Youyou cant harm us! That would violate your craft; you said it yourself! You arent allowed in here, either! So, begone!

Lasica gathered Mrsha into her arms as the three moved back from the door. Belavierr frowned.

This is displeasing. I only wish to negotiate on equal terms, Lasica. Mrsha, let me in. The [Garden of Sanctuary] allows no harm. What could Ido? Let me in. I am beginning to become displeased by this waste of time and effort. You would not like to see that.

Mrsha traded glances with Rufelt. He whispered to Lasica, drawing back another step.

She isnt leaving! Lasica, I told you she wasnt into fair bargains!

Do you have to rub it in now? I dont know what else we can say!

They were squabbling, but to Mrsha, it was a reassuring sound, because they were talking. Arguing like, well, a married couple, not sad Rufelt alone or the two shouting, biting at each other with words.

Belavierr saw it too, and it did not please her. She frowned deeper.

I do not bow to this old Skill. I will not be refused. Let me in. I will not ask again so politely. You, child.

She pointed at Mrsha. Lasica whirled, Mrsha in her arms, and Rufelt put himself between them and Belavierr, protectively, arms outstretched.

Even so, Mrsha felt the finger point at her.

You will let me in or suffer my ire.

This time it was not a suggestion or request. It was a threat. Lasica looked down at Mrsha, unsure of what to do. Afraid. Mrsha looked up at her, Rufeltand slowly pushed Lasicas arms away.

Mrsha, no, dont!

Lasica froze again, as whatever Skill that Belavierr was using to enact her deals came into play. She smiled, straightening, as Mrsha padded slowly towards her. The Gnoll looked up as Belavierr bent.

Yes. I shall give you all the gifts I promised. Wise little girl. Take my hand if you cannot invite me in with words. Just so.

Mrsha slowed. She tentatively stood on two legs, and toddled forwards. She reached out with her right hand and Rufelt groaned through his teeth; the only sound he could make. Belavierr smiled. She reached for Mrshas paw as the Gnoll hesitated, knowing the weight of Belavierrs threats.

Then Mrsha proved she had learned too much from her guardians of Erin, Lyonette, Ryoka, and more. She held out her paw as Belavierr bent, stuck it through the doorwayand jerked it back at the last second.

Sike.

Belavierrs face went slack as her fingers missed Mrshas paw. Mrsha held it outthe [Stitch Witch] reached for it. Mrsha jerked it away.

The Stitch Witch stared at Mrsha. Mrsha stared back, eyes wide. But the tiniest, gleeful smile trembling to get out. She held out the paw a third time. Belavierr stared at it. She stared at Mrsha.

Mrsha poked it through the [Garden of Sanctuary]s barrier. The air felt no colder, nor did the void around Belavierr seem painful. She was glad. It was just the Skill. Belavierr saw Mrsha jiggle the paw.

This time Im serious, okay?

The [Witch] knew. She had to know, but she reached down anyways, quicker this timebut still like a mountain moving, ponderous with eternity. She reached downand Mrsha jerked the paw back.

Got you again, stupid.

It may be that Belavierr even heard Mrshas inner thoughts, because she looked at Mrsha. And her eyes narrowed. Mrsha felt the full force of her gaze, and something else.

Ire. Belavierrs voice was low.

Little girl. You have made a mist

Mrsha slammed the door in her face. Rufelt and Lasica jumped. They stared at the wallthen the blank wall as the door vanished. Mrsha waited, a juddering heartbeat, then two, and turned. She wiped sweat from her fur, and grinned.

Hah, I won!

She signed triumphantly. Rufelt and Lasica didnt know what Mrsha meant, but the meaning was obvious. They rushed forwards.

You brave littleI thought you were going to let her in!

That was amazing! Stupid, but amazing!

Rufelt agreed. The two hugged Mrsha, and she hugged back with pure relief. She beamed, still shaky. Take that! Belavierr couldnt get in!

Do you think shell leave? That was Erins Skill, wasnt it? [Immortal Moment]? How does she have that?

Skills are Skills. We have to tell Chaldion. The Watch! Umsomeone! Is there anyone who could chase her off?

As they finished celebrating, the two adults turned back to worry; Belavierr was gone, but the Skill might still be working, and if she was in the inn?

Mrsha led them away from the mushroom and dirt biome, towards the center of the garden. She stared at the grass, the Sages Grass growing on top of the hill, the dead faerie flowers save for the little patch Ulvama had revivedand then up towards the hole in the overgrown, wooden dome covered in ivy.

The sky was visible through the hole there; even part of Birds tower, but never Bird himself, or anyone on the inn. There were clouds, the sunit was reassuringly normal.

Only, the clouds didnt move in the sky. Mrsha pointed up. The [Immortal Moment] was in effect; ergo, Belavierr was still outside.

Rufelt and Lasicadidnt notice. They were conversing, anxiously.

She cant take all of Pallass on. We just have to send word. If shes out there, shell get bored.

Maybe we run for it? Go for Pallass if shes waiting in the common room?

Rufelt, I love you, but you can be an idiot. Unlesswe can open the door right to the portal room? If we were just a foot away and she had no clue.

Aha! Whos stupid now? Er, I love you. Its good to argue again!

The Gnoll was beaming. Mrsha kicked him in the shins, or tried to. She couldnt harm him, so she just sort of nudged him with a foot. She pointed up as he looked down. Rufelt followed her finger.

Oh! We can climb out of the hole in the roof! Is that right, Mrsha?

The Gnoll girl looked up at Rufelt. The clouds, you idiot! Ipso facto!

Lasica caught on.

Shes still out there, Rufelt.

Well, lets try the portal room idea. Mrsha, you know the [Garden of Sanctuary]. There arent any secrets we dont know about, is there? You can help us, right?

Mrsha nodded as the adults turned to the real leader in this situation. Who had shut the door on Belavierrs stupid, stinky face? Who had placed the gardens door behind them so they walked in and saved them? Thats right.

She looked around the [Garden of Sanctuary]. It was, as always, a central hill surrounded by multiple biomes of different climates. The arid area with the sand and a few annoying cacti-things. The jungle that had provided the invaluable cacao tree and Niers hiding spotno Niers, unfortunately.

The pond area, next to the mushroom and rock-garden area, the grassy grassland that was lovely to run about in, and finally, a frozen, cold, snowy place in the far side, against the hill.

The hill, where the only other person was. Mrsha stared up at it gravely. The misty hill above the normal one, which you had to climb to, which had the statues and was beautiful and terrible.

That was the garden. Big enough to have lots of people in, a sanctuary where no violence was allowed. Unfortunatelyuninhabited. No Niers; the beavers had fled their usual dam in the pond, and Apista was out.

The beavers had fled the pond? Mrshas head turned back slowly. That wasstrange. The adult Fortress Beavers, the Defenders of the Cave, and their little kits almost never left the garden. They knew how safe it was. If they had left, did that mean they thought something was wrong? Had they known, once Rufelt and Lasica were in that?

She felt a sense of unease creep over her, but reassured herself that Belavierr couldnt get in. Mrsha had tricked her, and a [Witch] who had been tricked lost all her power! Or did you have to steal her hat? Throw water on her?

No secret entrances, huh?

Lasica sighed as Mrsha gestured around the garden. Rufelt sat down on the hilltop.

Almost all the Faerie Flowers are dead. Thats a shame. I liked them. Sages Grassare those the beginnings of a garden over there?

Mrsha nodded importantly at some of the vegetables and growing Blue Fruit trees and such that Lyonette and Erin had added.

Not very useful unless you want me to make a salad.

Lasica sighed. Rufelt nodded.

I could make a magical drink with some Sages Grass andalcoholbut thats about it. I think we have to leave, dear.

Mrsha sighed. She was a low-level [Druid] and [Survivor] and somehow she felt like she had the most applicable Skills to this situation. She pointed across the dome.

The door? Can you make it appear there?

The two adults hurried after her. Mrsha nodded importantly. She didnt have to actually walk over to that side; she could make the door appear right where it had been, only with a different exit pointbut all of them instinctively wanted to get as far away from Belavierr as possible. She led them to a bare patch of wall.

Just open it right in front of the portal door, Mrsha. Belavierrs in the common room and I bet shes standing where she is or trying to get in. Even if she senses uswe can lure her away, and jump through to Pallass. Even she would have trouble if all the Watch arrived. I think. Ill go; Lasica, youll stay with Mrsha.

Dont be stupid, Rufelt! What if she catches you?

The Gnoll hunched his shoulders.

She said she cant harm us. I just have to run through and call the alarm.

What if were caught in her [Immortal Moment] Skill even there?

Rufelt shook his head.

Pallass is 400 miles south of here. Theres no way her Skill reaches that far, through the door, surely. Its not that powerful. Shes not that powerful. Right?

Mrsha and Lasica hesitated. In theory, Mrsha thought that was right. You could probably escape an [Immortal Moment] if you werent a willing participant by getting out of its range. On the other paw

We can only try. Open the door, Mrsha. No one make a sound. If it looks safe, well maybe try opening really fast.

The little Gnoll nodded. She turned to the ivy-covered wall, took a deep breath, and motioned for silence. Rufelt and Lasica nodded, and the door opened.

It revealed the portal room, now set up to take in visitors who might be hostile via the truth-archways and semi-fortified. Mrsha leapt backand nearly ran into Rufelt.

Ow! Whats wrong?

He whispered. Mrsha glanced at him, and the empty room.

Shed just thought Belavierr would be standing there or something. It seemed like a classic evil [Witch] move. She shook her head.

I thought shed be there. The doors close! DamnId have to go through the archway to get to it.

Lasica eyed the door. Unfortunately, in its new setting, it was actually harder to reach than it had ever been; Hexel had set it into the wall, and there was no easy access point to it. She turned to Mrsha. The Gnoll nodded, closed the door softly, and adjusted its position so it wasnt facing the door, but directly adjacent to it. That way, when she opened it, they could just reach out and adjust the dial.

Perfect.

The three saw the door right next to them. And no Belavierr down the entire portal room hallway! Rufelt gave Mrsha a thumbs-up and she nodded.

Well look for her. Just adjust the dial.

Rufelt whispered. Lasica nodded. She reached out to change the dial. It was on the unused red stone that Ulvama had come through. Mrsha tilted her head.

Strange. Shed thought Belavierr came through the Pallass door from what Rufelt and Lasica had said. Had she teleported here instead? Or had someone changed it? Why

Lasicas claw closed on the dial as she put her arm through the door.

Belavierr grabbed it. The Stitch Witch appeared, shedding her invisibility spell. She had been standing right there.

Hello, Lasica.Come with me.

Lasica!

Rufelt shouted. He and Mrsha grabbed Lasica and tried to drag her back. The [Chef] screamed in terror as Belavierr dragged at her. The Drake screamed and screamed and the [Witch] was whispering.

You will not deny me. Come with me.

Lasica, dont let go! Dont

Rufelt was straining with all his might. He couldnt drag Lasica back, even with Mrshas strength! Howeverneither could Belavierr pull Lasica out.

Mrsha realized they were stalemated at the same time Lasica did. The Drakes eyes were wide.

She cant get me out! Dont let go, pull me in, Rufelt!

The Gnolls arms bulged. Lasica cried out; he took a risk and grabbed her under the armpits. Even then

I cant! Shes too strong!

We will stand like this forever. I have you. I will not let go. Come out. Or lose your arm.

Belavierr hissed. She held Lasicas claw lightly, but it was enough to overcome both adults and Mrsha. The Gnoll let go of Lasicas foot and was displeased to see it affected the stalemate not at all.

Belavierrlet go. Let go!

Lasica wanted to claw at the Human, but her claws didnt even pierce Belavierrs skin. The Stitch Witch was eye-to-eye with the terrified Drake.

You have offended me. I am beginning to become upset, Lasica. I will relent if you come out, now. I will even forgive the child. Do not make meangrier.

Begone, foul [Witch]! You have no power here!

Rufelt roared. Lasica and Belavierr turned their heads to both glower at him. The [Bartender] hesitated. Hed thought it might do something.

Stalemate. Only, this time even worse. The three strained in an invisible game of tug-the-Lasica. Mrsha had run off and Rufelt was holding Lasica as hard as he could, despite Belavierr seeming to not be able to pull her out. He couldnt see the girl; maybe shed fled.

And now Belavierr was whispering.

Your daughter will never be born, never draw breath, Lasica, unless you take my deal. Do you want her to die? Look. Dont you see her? This is her, Lasica. Look.

She had the picture. She thrust it at Lasica and the Drake tried to look away, but Belavierr held her and her eyes were drawn to the picture.

II want to live and raise more children! I promised Rufelt!

You will let your child die. You will not save her, as you can? You have a chance other parents would give all for and you turn away. What will your daughter say? Do you wantto hear her voice?

Rufelt felt Lasica shuddering. He shouted.

Monster! Leave us alone! Stop haunting us!

He saw the ringed gaze swing his way. Belavierr regarded him, and then spoke.

Rufelt. Do you want to speak with your daughter?

His heart stopped. The Gnoll [Bartender] nearly let go of Lasica. He saw Belavierr smile, like the face of evil, and reach for something under her robes.

I can let you do that.

No. Please. No.

Lasica and Rufelt stood there in horror. Trapped, transfixed. Belavierr had them and now the Spider smiled horribly wide. She stood in the darkness as it reclaimed the portal room; that was how they should have known it was a trap! Darkness covering the inn, her oblivion of an [Immortal Moment].

They had no Skills designed to stand against her, those two. They were a [Bartender] and [Chef]! What were they supposed to do? What kind of class save for [Hero] could fight that? What kind of [Innkeeper]

Mrsha charged down the hill. Her racing paws made Rufelts head turn. His grip slackened. Lasica screamed.

Rufelt! Dont let go!

But then her head turned. The only one who didnt notice was Belavierr, so intent and gloating was she on her quarry. The [Witch] only glanced up when she saw the light.

The light? The [Witch] hesitated. It danced, moving shadows. It was a living thing. Not like the frozen light from the [Immortal Moment]. What was that? She looked up.

What was it that the Gnoll girl held in her paws? She had stolen it from above! Stolen it from where it burned in a little cup and brazier next to the frozen bier! Ulvama had found that too.

Fire, burning on those she had touched. Her last will.

[Like Fire, Memory]. The [Witch] saw the Gnoll holding it, and it was bright, a combination of countless colors. She saw Mrsha lift it up, and offer it to Lasica. The Drake hesitated.

How does it still burn? Was she here? This is not her place? Girlwhere did you get that fire?

The Stitch Witch demanded. She backed away, shielding her face with her good arm from the flames. She raised her voice as Lasica reached down for it.

Take it away! Take it

Erins last flame touched Lasicas claws. The Drake gaspedand the fire raced up her entire body.

Hope. Kindness. Despair. Mercy. All the flames Erin had known and more, encapsulated in this last fire. The fire that burned even now. It was not one flame. It wasMrsha felt it burn across her and Rufelt too, feeding off their living souls. She realized what it was, at last.

The fire of life. It could be so cruel, and Mrsha had borne it without knowing until Ulvama rescued her. Yet now, she let it burn across her.

It raced up Lasicas scales as if they were tinder. Over her body as she cried out in relief and a different kind of agony, for she felt alive. Cruelly alive to mourn and weep and love and lose! Yet she let it burn.

And it raced onto Belavierrs hand. The [Witch] screamed. Screamed, as if it burned her worse than any mortal flame.

For five seconds, then ten, she tried to hold on. But the flames were reaching up her arm and it was like the flame knew her. For the other owner of this Skill, the origin of this fire, had called Belavierr her enemy.

Even now, Maviola El burned. Mrsha felt tears rise in her eyes. Even now, Erins will lived on.

Belavierr screamed and let go. She flung her arm up and Lasica fell into Rufelts arms. The fire on them went dim as all three stumbled back, not blazing as brightly as it had when it seemed like they were wrestling for their very lives.

Against her. The [Witch] screamed and the fire licked up her arm, burning her cloth, her skin. Mrsha saw the Stitch Witch burning and didnt understand why. Wasnt she alive too?

Yet she was so old. Perhaps memory hurt her. Perhaps living hurt her. And she was thread and needles. This was her antithesis.

Leave, Belavierr! This is Erins inn! This is her Skill! This is her fire! You cannot trespass in her garden! Begone!

Mrsha shouted with her paws, with her unheard voice. It was a far more powerful statement than Rufelts. Belavierr was flailing, still slowly, as if she couldnt move fast, in the same time and quick reality as the others. She cried out, a kind of wail, but soMrshas hair rose.

The fire was inherited. You burn me. You burn me!

She called to Mrsha, as the flames began to eat at her hair. Her hat. Belavierr swiped at it again, and then stopped. As if realizing there was no way she could simply remove the fire with force. She stopped, and Mrsha, Lasica, Rufelts grinning triumph slackened on their faces.

The [Witch] stood there, like a statue, burning as more of her was covered in that multicolored fire. She looked down at it, suddenly back to her normal state.

Life. A last memory. A last, flickering flame.

Mrsha looked up at her. Uncertain, now. Belavierr stood tall. She gazed at her burning side. Thenstarted laughing.

You tried to burn me with this? With a dead womans fire? You tell me this is not my place? That I cannot get in?

She ignored the fire. Belavierr pointed at Mrsha with a burning finger.

Twice now, you have insulted me, girl. You think I can burn like little [Witches] of old? You think you can best me in this game? You think you have seen all of my power?

Mrsha backed up. N-no. She didnt really think that. Why didnt they all calm down now? People had said and done things they might regret. Belavierr leaned forwards. Now the flames were covering half her face, but she didnt even flinch.

For you, Mrsha. I will use my power.

The little Gnoll froze. Rufelt and Lasica made a sound. And they realized, all of them, together, that Mrsha had done what not even Ryoka, Califor and the coven, and all of Belavierrs opponents had accomplished. Not even Ser Raim.

Theyd made her well and truly furious.

The Spider stood tall, then. The Stitch Witch looked up. But those were only the names they gave her in this age. Spider? Stitch Witch? Temptress?

Paltry little names. They had forgotten the real ones. The names even Djinni had remembered. The names Dragons passed about. She had walked among species now dead to this world.

Belavierr raised her burning arm to her face. It burned with Erins last fire. Life, for her friends she left behind. Happiness and anger and loss and guilt and every emotionBelavierr regarded it, face impassive as it tried to burn her.

Petty little flame. Your master is already dead. Begone.

She took a breathand blew it out.

Mrsha saw the flames racing across Belavierrs clothing vanish. The Stitch Witch stood, not even smoking. Mrsha backed up. Now, only those in the garden were on fire. Andthe flames seemed dimmer.

Belavierr. Enough. Cant you see we will not relent?

Rufelt and Lasica blocked the [Witch] as she turned to Mrsha. Belavierr glanced at them. Then blinked.

Ah. Rufelt and Lasica. I have changed my mind. You two may leave the garden. I renounce my claim on your bargain. When I leave, I shall set the last hope of your daughters life free. You have chosen. Nowmy deal is between myself and this child.

She bent down. Mrsha stared as Belavierr fixed her ringed gaze on her.

Mrsha. Let me in. Let me in. That is what I desire.

Belavierrs mouth opened wide in a grin. Mrsha stared at her. Why? For what reason? Rufelt and Lasica looked at each other. The Spider only laughed. Why? It was so obvious.

To hurt you.

Mrsha saw the two block Belavierr, linking arms. They stood defiant, the Gnoll and Drake. Belavierr looked at them and shook her head. She spoke past them.

Mrsha, I will offer you a deal. Let me in. Let me in, and we will strike a bargain. You will offer me what I wish. In exchange for what I will give you.

Dont listen to her, Mrsha. Youve seen what

Rufelt kept speaking but his voice went silent. He and Lasica moved aside, helplessly shocked. Belavierr stood there, demanding Mrshas attention. The Gnoll stood slowly straight. Erins fire still burned on her fur, lightly, but it was like Erin was with her. She looked Belavierr in the eye and raised a furry little finger.

Belavierr glanced at it. Mrsha added another and waved both for emphasis. The bit of defiance made her feel better, but the [Witch] didnt even twitch.

We are past petty insults, you and I, girl. You will let me in. I offer you what you most desire.

Mrsha scoffed, knowing Belavierr could understand. She braced herself, ready for the [Witch]s petty bargain. Belavierr looked at her with her endless gaze and Mrsha grew uncertain. The [Witch] looked into her. Searchingthen she smiled.

Mrsha. You stand in a dead womans inn. You proudly bear her fire. Give me half your life. Half your years. And I swear to youI will bring your [Innkeeper] back. I will return her to life.

The little Gnolls confident expression flickered out. She half-looked at Lasicas quivering lips, her unspoken words, and shook her head. Belavierr just smiled.

Becausethat was her opening offer. She leaned forwards, nearly pressing her face against the invisible barrier.

No? Then I look at you, Mrsha, and know you. I know what the tribes call you in this era. Doombringer. You are marked with the death of your tribe.

Mrsha froze. The eyes drew her in. Belavierr whispered.

I could bring them back. I could bring your tribe back. What did you do to slaughter them? Was it your fault? I could take away your cursed fate, girl. Your pale fur. I could give you a new tribe, one who never knew whence you came and never asked. I can bring back your friend. What do you want, Mrsha? Give me five years. Give me your left paw. What would you do to save all those who have died because of you?

Mrsha backed away, eyes wide. Belavierr didnt let her go. She didnt move, but her glowing eyes followed Mrsha. The darkness around herwas growing. Her whisper grew louder, and Rufelt and Lasica tried to shield Mrshathen fell away from the intensity at the doorway.

I could do it all. I only want what you offer. Five years? Bargain. Are you so petty you would let her lie, rotting, for only five years? Open the door, Mrsha. Strike a deal. I will use all my power. You will never have it ever again should you live a thousand years.

The girl ran. She turned and ran from the door, not even running to close it, if it could be closed. She ran in terror because this was what Belavierr had seen. Her fear. Five years? Five

She raced over the hill, to the other side of the domed garden. So far she couldnt see the [Witch], breaking her line of s

Mrsha. Open. The. Door.

Belavierr stood in the open doorway. Facing Mrsha. She had appeared around the other side of the dome. Mrsha froze. Sheshe couldnt do that.

She turned and ran for the jungle. And the door followed her in. The [Witch] stood, whispering through the vines and brush.

You will bring ill luck to all those who love you. You have already. Do you think it coincidence? Doombringer. I can remove it.

Mrsha turned and fled back the way shed come. Belavierr whispered from past the water as Rufelt went to grab Mrsha, but she was running in terror now, fleeing every time she met that gaze.

How many died already? You bear the mark of terrible fate to come. Your friends will die trying to protect you and it will be your fault. Dont you want me to twist destiny for you? Offer you safety for the future? Which will it be?

Mrsha, run. Dont listen.

Lasica whispered. She seized Mrsha as the Gnoll girl found herself running around the base of the hill. Mrsha looked into the Drakes panic-stricken eyes.

Safety! She had toMrsha looked around. Then she looked up to the only natural place. Oh, of course.

The top of the hill of mists. She turned and ran. Belavierr saw the white shape dart up the hill, racing higher. The [Witch] did not curse or bemoan failing to catch Mrsha. She just sighed.

Foolish child. Do you think I have no power, even here? For you? I will use it.

A long hand snaked down. Belavierr looked at her own hand as Mrsha ran up towards the hill where Erin lay. She regarded her fingers, as if she had never seen them before. Then her smile widened, stretching across her face.

She snapped her fingers.

Overhead, the sun turned off.

-

Mrsha stopped in darkness. She looked up.

The sky was gone. The clouds, the frozen blue sky and sunhad all gone dark. There were no stars. It had been eaten, like the rest of the inn.

Belavierr had turned off the light! Mrsha backed upthen nearly tumbled down the hill as she lost her footing. It was so dark!

The only light left in the whole garden came from the Sages Grass below. Maybe a glimmer from above, on the hilltop, butMrsha stumbled down towards the Sages Grass.

Mrsha! Dead gods, Mrsha! Where are you? Lasica!

Im here! Ow! Ancestors, what was

Lasica kicked something hard. Mrsha heard a crash; it was the laptop, abandoned. She found herself running into an empty picnic basket, a soccer ball

The grass here was wet underfoot from a shower not quite dried away, or the roving watering cloud of mists. The three stood amid the glowing Sages Grass. Mrsha looked around.

Its so damned dark. How did she do that?

The same way she did everything! We need light! Hold on. Let me just[Light]! Aha!

Lasica pulled, of all things, a little wand out of her bag of holding. She used the emergency wand to shine the light around. Mrsha and Rufelt were very close. It was

Scary in the [Garden of Sanctuary] without any lights.

Dead gods. Letsshes angry at you, Mrsha. Lasica, we have to do something.

What? Run for it? I think thats the stupidest thing we can do, Rufelt. Not that theres anything smart. Letslets get up to the hill with the mists. Well be safest there, if anywhere. At least if we go up there, she cant use the door to find us around the edges of the garden.

All that made sense. The other two nodded. Mrsha felt every hair pricking up. This waswrong. No light? Even at night, the stars were so beautifulthis seemed wrong. Like the [Garden of Sanctuary] was losing against Belavierr. It couldnt. She couldnt get in.

The three advanced up the slope. Mrsha was looking around for the glowing eyes against a far wall. She was looking so hard, she nearly missed the first whisper.

Let me in.

It came from an unfamiliar angle. Mrsha heard the whisper, louder.

Let me in.Let me in,Mrsha.Let me in.

She stopped dead in her tracks. Lasica had heard it too. She shined the wand around.

Theres no waywhere is she?

Rufelt whirled, paws raised as if he wanted to fist-fight Belavierr. He looked right, left. The whispers seemed to come from everywhere.

Shes not in here! Its a trick! But where?

All three began to look around. They had to know where Belavierr was; not knowing was terrifying. The whispers grew louder.

Let me in, Mrsha. Let me in. Letmein. lEt mE IN. LeT Me In. Let me INletmeinletmeinletmeinletmeinletmein

Where was she? Mrsha looked right, left, downand then, because she had exhausted all other options, she looked up at last. And saw her.

Belavierr was craning through the opening in the dome above the garden. Her orange eyes shone down as she leaned down, whispering. Mrsha pointed up and Lasica screamed as she saw Belavierr there.

How was she there? There was no way! Mrsha ran up the hill, screaming now, making the only sound she could in her throat. This had gone from scary to true horror. She ran up the hill. Erin! Save me! Save

There you are. I knew I would find my way in.

Belavierr turned. Her orange eyes glowed as she stared down at Mrsha. The Gnoll girl froze.

Belavierr was standing at the top of the hill. She stood there, as if she had always been there. Rufelt, Lasica, and Mrsha froze.

Sheshe got in.

Rufelt stared up at the hole in the roof where Belavierr no longer was. Shed gotten in. Mrshas eyes were wide.

I take back my deal, Mrsha. Now? I will be angry. Come here.

Belavierr began walking down the hill. Mrsha backed up.

Mrsha, run! Run for the portal door!

Lasica ran at Belavierr, swinging her wand. Rufelt charged after her. Belavierr saw both adults coming and pivoted. She moved unnaturally fast and Rufelt missed, tripping into the darkness. Lasica slashed, but Belavierr whirled past her. Then walked towards Mrsha.

The little Gnoll ran down the hill, screaming, for the door.

Come here.

Belavierr dodged with unnatural speed again, as Rufelt and Lasica charged her. She moved slowthen with blinding speed. She was following Mrsha, with an inexorable pace that somehow seemed like it was catching up. But Mrsha was running for the wall. Pallass! Celum? Invrisil? Liscor? She was sobbing as she ran past the lake.

Mrsha, get out of here!

Again, Lasica missed as Belavierr casually dodged her. For all she seemed so static, she was moving too fast now! She saw Mrsha run to the wall and the door appeared. ThenMrsha froze.

Mrsha!

Rufelt roared. He was hitting only air. He saw Belavierrs pace quicken. She came at Mrsha as husband and wife turned. They saw the child slowly rotate, eyes wide. Belavierr reached down with clawing hand

And her arm passed through Mrsha. The two adults stopped. Mrsha flinched. Yet Belavierrs gaze was onlydisappointed. She glanced past Mrsha at the open doorway, which led into the inviting portal room again.

Another trap. How had Mrsha known, though? She looked down. At the pond where the Fortress Beavers dam was.

There, reflected in the still water, was the dome overhead. And in it

Belavierr stared down at Mrsha. She reappeared as the shadow image of her vanished. She stopped moving her hands, stopped playing with the light.

Shadow puppets. Only, as she could make them. She stared down at Mrsha. The little Gnoll looked up at her. A third time she had bested Belavierr, by luck as much as anything. But she didnt gloat anymore.

For Belavierr scared her more than almost anything Mrsha had known. Almost as much as Facestealer and Nokha. She ran back up the hill and sheltered among the statues, next to Erins frozen bier.

Lasica and Rufelt joined her. All three drew back as the shadow of Belavierr walked up the hill. She stopped before the statues and mist, as if she could go no further. She lookedperplexed.

Three times. Four, to count how Rufelt and Lasica denied me. Four times I was defeated. So strange. Yet you are still overconfident, girl.

Mrsha bared her teeth in a shaky snarl. She looked at Erin, to give her some kind of hope and guidance. Belavierr just shook her head. She gestured around the [Garden of Sanctuary]. At the flames of life still clinging to Mrshas fur, giving her some small strength and support.

You trust to fire, girl. But fire is a kind of magic, and memory fades. You are in my domain, here. My time. You trust to this garden to hold me back. Yet it is not your Skill. The owner lies dead, and the true owner died long ago. You dont have the full power of this place.

She gestured around the [Garden of Sanctuary]. Then Belavierr smiled cruelly.

You dont even have the right door.

Mrsha looked at her. The Stitch Witch met her gaze. Older, more terrible, and still so petty. What would she do next? What could she do? She had tricked and offered. What now?

For answer, Belavierr just stood there. She stood there, and looked down at Mrsha. Almost contemptuously. As if to say, see? All your victories ring hollow in time.

See? And Mrsha did see. She looked around the garden, in darkness, and despair. At Belavierr. A look of horror stole across Rufelts face. Lasica realized it last.

No.

She looked down as the magic of her nearly-depleted wand of [Light] ran out. After allit was magic. Light, air, all mundane things froze here. But the [Immortal Moment] didnt allow for forever magic. That would be cheating.

It was dark. Mrsha was panting. She looked at the fire dimly burning on her fur. At Belavierr. And she knew.

It shall last until we make a pact, you and I. How long can you wait? How long can your soul survive eternity? Longer than mine? As we wait, let me tell you how you will let your loved ones die. Let me recite your pain, girl. We will wait together.

Belavierr stood in the darkness. She began to whisper. Mrsha put her paws over her ears. Belavierr kept whispering, uncaring. After allshe had an immortal moment.

Forever. And they were trapped with her.

Mrsha finally began to cry. In despair, in fear.

Erins fire was beginning to go out.

-

And then it was over.

Mrsha had met the [Witch]. She had been scared by the witch, but the witch was old. She had made mistakes, even as ancient as she was. She fooled Mrsha by letting the little Gnoll think there was a way you could win.

It wasnt like that. Now the Gnoll knew, as she sat in a moment of foreverit wasnt possible. Fighting Belavierr? It wasnt bringing down the giant. She wasnt a fire you could put out, like Maviola, so intense until itextinguished.

She was like the tide. Like a storm. There was no beating her, not unless you could kill the dark sea itself. All Mrsha had done was make the [Witch] angry.

Belavierrs true wrath, though, was not in dark nightmares. Not in tricks or games. It was just this.

Time. Mrsha felt it grinding against her skull. Time.

She was trapped in this [Immortal Moment]. The moment was immortal. She was not. Things could happen in this time. You could make peace, change, find courage.

Suffer. Oh, the [Witch] was clever. She whispered dark promises to Mrsha. Let me in. But then?

Then she showed Mrsha terrible things.

Mrsha? Where are you? Stop hiding. You will help the [Gatherers] pluck the Needleplums. Stop running away! We have gloves! Then we will eat. You want to eat, yes?

Someone spoke to Mrsha. He wandered over the grass hill. She smelled familiar cooking scents as she crouched low in the grass, her brown fur mixing well with a patch of dry grass. She was younger, smaller, and didnt want to work! She wanted to catch little grasshoppers; they were food. But no

Urksh came over the hill, calling. Mrshas ears perked up as he made his way to her. She hid lower, giggling despite herself. And part of her wailed. Part of her didnt want to see his exasperated, smiling face, as her guardian, the Chieftain of the Stone Spears tribe, her tribe, came scolding and teasing.

Part of Mrsha wanted to see him again, to be here. But then she saw him and her heart broke at his kind face. He bent down, scolding, and she went to run

Then she saw him amid the dark night, fighting with his tribe. As Goblins poured down the side of the mountain. Ryoka held her, pleading with the Winter Sprites for Mrshas life. Mrsha howled, and howled as she saw the Stone Spears tribe fighting and dying. Sacrificing everything that a few might live.

Zel Shivertail was there, Ilvriss, the Goblin Lord. Mrsha saw the [General] as she had first seen him, leading a charge forwards to try and save the Gnolls, to no avail.

Stop.

If she could have said it, she would. Belavierr knew what she meant. The [Witch] just looked at her.

Just what are you doing?

Zel Shivertail caught Mrshas paw as she snatched for a little bit of his breakfast. He looked amused, but Lyonette instantly wanted to scold Mrsha.

Instead, the [General] sat Mrsha on the table. She eyed him, a bit apprehensively. The [General] indicated his plate.

Are you that hungry? Take what you want.

The Gnoll girl shyly looked at him, and then ducked her head. She wasnt hungrythe Drake smiled, a scar stretching.

Thats what I thought. If you want to play games, be my guest. I was just checking.

He let Mrsha hop off the table. The Gnoll girl saw Lyonette hesitate, frown at her, but Zel went back to eating. She eyed him, circling around his chair. Then she slyly crept up, reached for his poached egg

He blocked her paw with one finger. Mrshas eyes widened. She tried again, darting, and Zel

Flicker. Belavierr was smiling. Mrsha tried to hide her eyes. Stop.

Was lying in the coffin. They were going to burn him. How had he died? The Goblin Lord? Mrsha was crying. Crying and crying.

It wasnt right. He shouldnt have died. Not him! Not the Tidebreaker.

Everyone else was weeping. Mrsha saw them light the flames and howled for them to stop. Stop! Dontdont

Dont do this.

The cruelty of it was that it was the past. The past and the future. Rufelt and Lasica held each other, whispering in their own world of pain. They stared at what had beenwhat might be. The evil power Belavierr had was that she showed Mrsha what the Gnoll had loved and laughed at.

And then what Mrsha had lost. There could be no darkness without light. Even here

The fire burned. Erins fire flickered on Mrshas fur. Belavierr let it burn, defiantly. YetMrsha no longer wanted the fire.

It was too dark. The light just made it worse. She curled up. She didnt know how long it had been.

This will continue forever. Strike a deal, child. I will take your pain. Your memory. I will restore one you love to life. Give me something of yours.

The little girl looked up, tears leaking from her eyes. Forever? The [Witch] stood there, and pitted her might againsta child. It was silly. It was petty. Yet of all Mrshas foes, imaginary and real, Belavierr alone tried to crush her without regard for her age or size.

I suffer no insults. I suffer no challenges. How long will you wait? Until your soul tears itself apart?

The Witch whispered and Mrsha knew she would keep her here until the Gnoll was older than Lyonette and Erin combined. Would she grow older, or just remain, her soul withering with pain?

Mrsha. Mrsha

Rufelt was searching for her, but he was blind. He was choking, looking at somethingMrsha had so many sad memories. How many did he have, as old as he was? Lasica was holding onto him, but curled up, weeping.

Mrsha looked at something on her paws. It was the fire of life.

It was fading away. She tried to call more fury, more energy into it, to burn Belavierrbut only an illusion stood before her. And what good was fire?

The fire was only able to burn on fuel. The three mortals were nearly extinguished themselves by the moment they were trapped in.

Some nights, the abyss could scream so loudly that even the brightest flame went out. Mrsha saw the flame on her paws flicker.

Then die.

-

Time stopped. Mrsha saw the past. She heard Belavierrs whispers.

I can bring her back.

Erin had failed. Noshe wasnt here. Mrsha lay next to her frozen bed. The fire in the cup next to the frozen young woman flickered. Mrsha could have kindled it on her fur, but it would just die again. She lay there, in the only light left, aside from Belavierrs eyes, and knew Erin had failed.

No, if the [Innkeeper] were hereshe could have done something more. All Mrsha had left were sparks, and she was too small. Too sad.

Erin. Erin, please wake up.

The Gnoll spoke. She spoke, not with any words, or her paws, in the flickering of memories, Belavierr, using memories like weapons, in a dark copy of Erins Skill, but with her thoughts.

As if Erin was there. She had to be.

Im afraid. Please do something. Please?

The young woman lay there, lips slightly parted, a slight smile on her face. Mrsha grew angry. She shouted.

Stop sleeping! I need you. We need you.

No response. Mrsha buried her face in the frozen grass.

Please? Ill be good.

No help came. Even when she begged.

A dark dress swished across the ground, but left no sound. Feet walked the hill, but left no trace on the grass.

Belavierr. She bent down, and inspected Erins grave. She looked at Mrsha, and spoke.

Truth. That was what made Belavierr scary. She used truth, not lies, to hurt you. She used love to create pain. And the worst part? She didnt care. She only wanted to hurt Mrsha for offending her.

Ah. So this is the [Innkeeper]? She will never come back alone. The world beyond grows emptier. Unlesssomeone catches what remains.

Belavierr tilted her head. She stepped around Erins bier, carefully, as if even her shadow did not want to disturb it.

Not alive. Not dead. I see.

Mrshas tearstained face rose in hope. Belavierr saw it, too? Then

However. She may still be lost. You have her body. You dont know where her soul lies, do you?

The [Witch] turned. She smiled wider, gleefully.

She can still die, girl. Dont you know what haunts the lands of death? There have always been shadows. There are other things that ghosts fear. Dont you want her back? You cannot bring her back without her essence. And you have no idea where it is, or if it remains.

Mrsha stared up at Belavierr and realized the [Witch] was giving her the last clue. Poison. Frozen body. Wounds.

They were missing her soul? She listened as Belavierr bent, whispering.

She will never come back alone. The world beyond grows emptier. Unlesssomeone catches what remains. Protects it. Before it is destroyed.

W-what did that mean? Mrsha stared up as Belavierr reached for something in her dress. The witch drew something out. Something made of string and beads and woven like aa

Net. A perfect prison of so many threads, it was a pale skein that was both transparent with the glittering cloth, and so thin as to never let anything escape. Mrshas eyes went round. She saw somethingflutter there for a second.

Somethings. Belavierr showed it to Mrsha and the Gnoll girl backed away, terrified. The [Witch] laughed.

Dont you see? I wove it out of dreams and souls. I caught it before it could die in the place beyond, the last true death. I never lied. Cant you see? Their daughter.

She pointed into the darkness. Somewhere, two parents cried out in horror. Mrsha cowered away from the soulcatcher. The [Witch] bent down further. She pointed at Erin.

I can bring her back if she remains. Just give meeverything. You do not have enough. But give me everything and I will do it. For it will mean your end. Do you love her? Then trade. A life for a life.

Mrsha was quivering. No, noshe knew Erin would never want that. Yet Belavierrs whispers invaded her head.

You will never create anything, Doombringer. With your one act, redeem all you have wrought. Is she not beloved, this child? Look at all her gifts. Look at all who wait for her to come back. Who matters more? Her? Or you?

She gestured to the frozen presents. Mrsha saw Ekirras little ball, flowers, letters. She looked at Erin, desperately trying to hear Erins voice. Shed say, you stupid Witch! Dont you talk to Mrsha like that!

Or

Mrsha couldnt hear Erin. This was her place! She stood next to Erins body, and Belavierr was louder. The [Witch] laughed again.

You think she could best me?

She regarded Erin Solstice. Then turned to Mrsha.

Or you think to best me with the scraps she left? What arrogance, child. You still dont see me. You still underestimate me. I am offended. Solook.

Her eyes caught Mrshas again. The Gnoll fell into that orange light. She saw the layers of Belavierrs immortality, protections wrought over countless aeons of existence. Dark magic. The [Witch] turned to her, a thing of thread, a giant of her craft, an amalgamation of heartsand spoke.

I am the Witch of Webs. The spider in every story. There have been those like me before. My legend pales next to some. Yet not even I remember them. I am one of many legends that have come beforeperhaps none will come again.

She touched her chest. For a moment, her face was almost sad. Mrsha looked up, eyes wide. Belavierr gestured.

They turned back to the Stitch Witch. She got up, dusting herself off. She didnt look hurton the other hand, she had lost her smile. She eyed Xrn.

Ah. The things of Rhir. I thought you stayed below. When did you leave? What do they call you? Archmage of Wistram?

Xrns response was to freeze Belavierr solid. The air was a match for the Frost Wyverns breath and Grimalkin threw up a claw, grimacing at the memory. The frozen [Witch] began to crack before the spell even ended.

Elemental magic doesnt work. Physical damage doesnt work. Shes more theoretical than present. Either that, or her magical shielding is capable of amazing diffusion.

That was his analysis so far. Xrn turned to him.

I have no idea what that means. My spells havent worked. But they will. Give me a minute.

He nodded. Belavierr was moving.

seek no quarrel, Antinium. It is a personal matter

Grimalkin stomped and Belavierr went flying, shot away by another pillar of stone. He knew it did no good, but he conjured a pair of fireballs and tossed them at her.

She blocked both, sending back a needle twice as long as he was. It could have skewered himGrimalkin punched it and shattered the metal projectile. He cursed; that hurt.

Belavierr was trying to stop Xrn; both she and Grimalkin could see the Antinium gathering magic. Xrns eyes began shining like a lighthouses light. And the Stitch Witchlooked a bit worried.

I would like you to desist. [Deathlance]

The spell shot towards Xrns chest. Grimalkin would have blocked it, but Xrn just dodged left. He seized Belavierr and threw her. She struck him once and he staggered, but physical combat was his specialty. Locking her down in a fistfight was advantageous even if he didnt hurt her. She landed a few blows on him as he tackled her.

-

Identified! Grimalkin of Pallass and the Small Queen of the Antinium are fighting whatever that Human is!

The [Siegemaster] of Hectval felt his stomach heave. Grimalkin? Pallass? This was going too far. And the Antiniums nightmare? Hectval had not come for that.

Were just here for Liscor. Issue a statement to Pallass that if the Sinew Magus gets in our waythis is an inter-city dispute! Volley the new section of the city again!

More spells blasted the earth, but most were blocked by Hectvals [Mages]. By now, the [Siegemaster] wanted nothing more than to do what hed been ordered to do and retreat. However, the Council would have his tail unless he did at least some damage.

The first volleys had been intercepted, but the catapults had the range now and they were prepared to demolish the residential districts and new area of Liscor. The inn-destruction detachment had nearly reached their target.

If Liscor lost both its new expansion and the inn, morale would plummet. The [Siegemaster] knew Liscors army wasnt finished yet. He saw them mustering at the gates, but his forces were dug in and hed switch the catapults to them and wipe them out. It was an ideal battle in short

Except for whatever the hell that [Witch], Grimalkin, and the Small Queen were doing. The [Siegemaster] prayed theyd all be distracted for ten minutes. Ten minutes, and he could unload enough ordnance to wipe out multiple blocks.

Liscors army is advancing!

Idiots. Prepare to volley on them as they come into range.

The [Siegemaster] turned. The Watch Captain and [Strategist] were leading the assault. Hadnt they ever fought a proper Drakearmy? Hah! Theyd been too far gone from the south. He raised his claw.

Hold, hold

Siegemaster, incoming from the left!

The Drake [General] swung around. He sawnothing. But one of his [Tacticians] was pointing. The Drake squinted for the enemy attack and saw a single figure.

You idiot. Thats a civilian.

No, its a soldier! Its coming our way!

The [Siegemaster] stared. Sending a single warrior out to fight was incredibly stupid. Unlesswas this Klbkch the Slayer? Hed heard the Antinium was weakened. He focused on the figure.

Unless Klbkch the Slayer was a Minotaur, he doubted it. The [Siegemaster] frowned.

A one-armed Minotaur? Maybe an adventurer. It must be suicidal. Take it down.

He turned back to the approaching army, half-listening to the order.

Bows! Archer Squad Three, target the Minotaur. [Homing Arrows]. Loose!

Bowstrings snapped. There was a pause and the [Siegemaster] shook his head. Although something nagged at him. Why a lone minotaur? Maybe he was an adventurer or a fool.

But hadnt he seen something on the scrying orb a while back? When had it been?

Oh yes. When the Minotaurs had forced the King of Destruction back. Theyd sent Minotaurs forwards, too, hadnt they?

Their criminals. He glanced up.

Minotaur is still coming. Archer Squads Four to Seven, take aim! Loose!

Arrows snapped through the air. The [Siegemaster] waited. Liscors army was still coming, just out of rangehe turned his head as someone muttered an oath.

They just bounced off his skin. Heshealing the ones who got through. [Mages]! [Lightning Bolt] spells on that Minotaur!

The [Siegemaster] looked left. He saw the Minotaur charging. At their catapults. Four arrows had managed to pierce his hide. Andhe had an axe raised. He was roaring, so loudly that Hectvals entrenched army heard it.

Liscors army is beginning to charge!

Kill that Minotaur!

The [Siegemaster] roared. Lightning bolt spells flashed out.

It was a bad day for lightning. They struck the Minotaur, three missing, two landing home. He stumbledand then kept running. The Drakes looked at the Minotaur as he charged.

Death before dishonor. Then he was upon the catapult teams. He swung his axe and two Drakes vanished. The [Siegemaster] whirled around.

Kill that Minotaur!

Riders thundered down on Calruz, but he swung his axe, bellowing. The catapults hesitated, in disarray from this threat. Liscors army was charging now. 4th Company leading the way, coming in from the flank.

The [Siegemaster] was telling them to fire, fire any catapults at the army! But something was wrong. The chaos around the catapults was getting worse. He saw one of the war machinessink into the earth. Like the ground was spongy. Another area collapsed. Then he saw the Antinium.

They stared up at him. Armor painted with their colors. The [Siegemaster]s scales went grey with horror. Yellow Splatters murmured.

Idiot.

They forgot so soon that Liscor was an Antinium city as much as Drake. Perhaps they just thought there was no way Liscor would ever use Antinium tactics. But Olesm would.

The [Crusaders] surged out of the secret tunnels. Just in time; Zevaras Watch and Liscors army were nearly on Hectval. Yellow Splatters chanced one look for the inn before he was leading the charge. The Antinium were fighting hereTersk and Dekass and the other Prognugators had joined the Painted Antinium to destroy this army. He had to trust Xrn would guard the inn.

He saw the Small Queen activate her spell in the distance.

-

Belavierr was getting tired of this Drake [Mage]. He waspersistent. And while he was not at her strength, he could distract her.

The Sinew Magus was panting. He ducked another blow from those enchanted scissors, and charged backwards. Just in time.

[Wail of the Banshee].

The scream tore the air, but Belavierr realized her magic wouldnt kill the Drake. Worseshe looked up.

Xrn was done with her spell. The Antinium pointed her staff down at Belavierr and spoke. But it was no attack spell. Grimalkin swore as he unconsciously reached for a notepad. He and Belavierr understood at once as Xrn spoke.

[I Call Open the Manaforge]

Agap opened up in the sky behind her. Like the one Belavierr had torn open, but shining. Dimensional magic. Belavierr murmured.

A [Thaumaturge]. I may be in danger.

Xrn was glowing. Her voice was like thunder.

[My Soul Shall Forge New Magic]

Belavierr began walking back slowly. Her eyes fixed on the glowing astral land beyond. Power, mana, raw and untamed, was flowing into that land of creation. To birth weapons never seen before.

[Until Infinity Exhausts Itself].

Xrn completed her spell and hovered between two worlds. It was that spell that told Belavierr the Small Queens class. The spell every [Thaumaturge] learned. Butalways different.

A spell flickered in the air, half-writ, barely completed. Xrn had used her great magic to create a place where new incantations could be created. It was a process only the greatest [Mages] could dream of enacting, even with all this help. If you knew magic, you could see what she was working on. Belavierr looked.

Her skin crawled. She grew uneasy.

The unfinished spell read to her eyes: [The ___slayers Arrow].

Xrn placed it aside. She looked at Belavierr and began forging her new spell. Prototypes lashed outwards.

[Binding of Belavierr]. Hm. Shall we reverse it? [The Bane of Belavierr]. What kills you, [Witch]? I have never met your ilk, but you seem familiar to foes I have seen. It vexes me. So let me kill you and learn how it is done.

A ray of condensed mana struck Belavierr. Fire swirled around her. Xrn was probing for her weak points. Fashioning the beginnings of new spells.

We will not part amiably. I must use my craft or be endangered.

Belavierr spoke. She was creating barriers of magic now, cloth and magic. No longer could she rely on mere spellcraft. She had to expend her hoarded power. This simple trip to Pallass was costing beyond belief.

She blamed Mrsha for all of it.

The Stitch Witch whirled something out of the air. She blocked the first lance of magic with it. The cascade of raw magic nearly hit Grimalkin, forced to stand back.

You challenge me, spellcaster. But I am older than even you! You misjudge your foe!

You have never met my ilk.

The two exchanged spells. Xrn turned the air to fire and created a globe of burning sky around Belavierr. So intense even the [Witch] cried out. Yet she whirled the object around her and the fire could not pass it.

What is that? Xrn stared out of the Manaforge, and it analyzed the strange cloth for her.

Dragonscales. A cloak of Dragonscales

Belavierr drew a long thread of hair and placed it in a needle. Xrn read the composition of both. The hair of a unicorn and Naq

She dove, too late. The needle pierced her barriers and stabbed into one arm. It tried to dig itself into her chitin. She pointed at the thread.

[Ray of Disintegration].

Simple enough. Yet she bled green. Xrn stared at her blood as the needle was severed. It flew back, as the Naq-Alrama needle tried to flee. The Small Queen shook her head.

[Cenidaus Complete Chill]. So you can fight, Human.

She was surprised; Belavierr had been so oddly stationary. Now Xrns blood began to boil. Belavierr eyed the needle. It shattered and she frowned.

Such needles are hard to obtain. I do not waste them. Begone, strange thing.

Her fingers moved in a crawling pattern. Xrn glanced around; she snapped the threads before they could tighten around her and cut her to ribbons. It was a copy of the [Trapmaster Assassin]s trickno. He copied Belavierr. Xrn wondered if those threads could have gone through Liscors walls without slowing.

The suns light burst into full blast around Belavierr, and the [Witch] cried out, shielding her face. Xrn flew higher, warily.

The Naq-Alrama needle had pierced her wards. She had not bled badly, but she had to re-establish defensive spells. She cast a familiar magic as she targeted the ground.

[Magical Field: The Somber World of Blue]. Ah, pests. Begone.

She blasted part of Hectvals army, which had nearly reached the inn. Counterspells and arrows shot at her; she ignored them. Wrong color. She turned back to Belavierr.

The [Witch] was not impressed. She looked at the field of color around Xrn.

You wish to dance with colors against me, girl? [The Cerulean Eater Awakes].

She powered the spell with something she drew out of her robes; a little figurine of an [Archmage]. It turned to dust as Belavierr sacrificed it, scowling.

Xrn saw something coalesce out of the blue. It came at her, a different shade amidst her spell. She began to blast it and nearly forgotshe had to use blue magic!

[Paint Spray]. Hmf.

Grimalkin leapt. The blue paint over his scales shone wetly. He hit whatever was cutting towards Xrn and landed. She blasted it with blue fire and it screamed. The Sinew Magus folded his arms. He and Xrn gave each other unfriendly looks of respect.

Interesting. Your counter?

Only a fool doesnt take countermeasures. You played your hand at Invrisil.

I have more cards in my analogy than you could dream of, Drake.

Xrn cancelled the spell. She was free to attack the cerulean monster with spells outside its color. She whirled, and aimed again at Belavierr.

This time her spell broke on a shimmering ward like a face. Accordingly, the talisman Belavierr held up burned away. The [Witch] stared at it. She flexed her hands, and lookedupset.

They do not make such objects anymore. This costs too much.

Costs too much? That was it, though. Belavierrs lips twisted in genuine distress as she looked at her broken Naq-Alrama needle. The Archmages weapon she had used to attack Xrn

Far too costly. Mana is nearly free. I dislike doing battle with those who can threaten me. Please stop.

She aimed a flurry of free spells at Xrn, but the Antinium was superior in pure spellcraft. Belavierr was forced to throw up walls of a strange, transparent silk that absorbed spell after spell, but eventually broke. She stared at them, distressed, and then reached for a mana potion crafted by a [Sage]. She drank it, sourly.

I would rather bleed.

The [Witch] hissed, dropping the empty vial. Grimalkin charged in, landing a punch that sent her staggering as Xrn burned the last of the silk-barriers again.

Collectors.

He grunted. Belavierr whirled. Grimalkin dodged a wand which discharged a spray of brown pestilence that might have killed him; of course, it was in the air. He froze the air around him, praying it had been enough.

No good. He felt sick as he stumbled back. Belavierr looked at the wand, snapped it in irritation.

So say those who have nothing of value.

Of all the things to retort toGrimalkin desperately crunched counteragents against his scales, trying to neutralize the plague. But it was already

[Greater Dispel]. [Bubble of Purity]. [Aegis of Saimune]!

Xrn pointed down. Grimalkin, choking as his throat closed up, felt the three spells fighting the plague. The spell was cut shortthen the physical manifestations vanished in the soothing grey glow. The last spell made him feel alive. He felt his throat open and gasped.

Stay clear of her artifacts.

Xrn warned him. Grimalkin nodded, shakily. He looked up at her. The words of thanks strangled in his throat to the small Queen. But he murmured, looking at Belavierr.

Inferiority. What a farce. The Strongest Mage in Pallass?

He shook his head, looking at the other two [Mages]. Xrn and Belavierr. For some reason, that alone produced a cessation in the battle. Xrns mandibles raised and Belavierr raised one eyebrow. Both wereamused?

So says the infant. I can walk, but not fly already.

Belavierr whispered. She was flickering her fingers. Xrn pointed, and the [Witch] blocked a beam that tried to eat her as it clawed at her shields. The Small Queen looked at Grimalkin and one eye turned yellow with humor.

You are so young.

The Sinew Magus absorbed this, and looked at the two ancients of days. He nodded, and redoubled his attack, to give Xrn the opening to deal the critical blow. But by thenBelavierr was smiling.

The Stitch Witch held something up. She licked at it. Frowned. She shrugged, sighing.

Strange. New species. Yet you are too close. And you do not know my craft, girl.

Xrn looked down. Grimalkin uttered a curse and Xrn didnt see why. All Belavierr had was a bit of green on her fingers. Her blood. So what?

The Small Queen had never faced a [Witch]. Let alone a hex and curse expert. Belavierr smiled wickedly. She looked at Grimalkin as he shouted up at Xrn.

Now. [Blood of Enemies, Boil].

Xrn raised her staff. She called a searing prism of magic to life and shot a ray of burning red towardsGrimalkin. The [Sinew Magus] dodged. He roaredand pointed up.

[Siege Fireball]!

Xrn blocked the spell. Why had Grimalkin attacked her? Why had

Drake! My foe! Slayer of my kin! Diewe were always going to slay each other!

A wave of lava poured forth at Grimalkin. He was running, aiming more spells at her. Everything he had prepared to fight her. Kill the Antinium. Kill the

Belavierr watched, smiling. The strange [Thaumaturge] was strong. But she had no protections against Belavierr.

Stillthe two werent idiots. They exchanged another withering blast of fire, and then Grimalkin growled.

I cant

I am under some sort of magical attack, Magus Grimalkin. We are wasting energy. She isdoing something with my blood.

Stop her.

Grimalkin spread his arms. Xrn didnt hesitate. But she pulled the blow. Instead of annihilation, she flicked her finger.

A gigantic copy appeared and did the same to the Sinew Magus. He tasted blood as he flew for the second time that day. Howeverthat left Xrn free.

Enough. Perish, Human.

She conjured her incomplete spell from the Manaforge and hurled it down. Belavierr shrieked as something cut into her. Xrn saw something snap. For a second she saw the same thing Mrsha hadand saw her burn away Belavierrs protections.

Not enough. Yet she saw a weakness and poured more mana into research, adjusting the spell.

Belavierr finished her spell first. The last drop of Xrns blood she was whispering to, completely at odds with Xrns creation in the Manaforge. She was just

Negotiating.

We shall strike a pact, you and I. Power for powers get. Your enemy mine, so I shall grant you my strength this time. Come and twist, destinys thread. Cometake her head.

Xrn felt the air twist. She whirled, wondering wh

Facestealer tore her left arm off. It crawled out of the portal. Her

It grabbed her head and yanked. Xrn flailed. A claw tore half her head off. Xrns eyes wentblank.

Oh. Klbkch, Wrymvr. I may be dying.

Im sorry.

-

Across Izril, in the Hivelands, Wrymvr froze. He heard it.

Klbkch, flexing an arm, froze. The Queens stopped. Incredulously.

Xrniavxxel?

The Grand Queens mandibles opened in horror. Klbkchs head rose. It could not be. It could not

-

Xrns head began to tear. The claw slicedand magic poured forth.

Raw magic. Her very being exploded outwards. It lashed Facestealer, tearing all the hide off its body and revealing the bone shell. It began to dig deeper, pure mana unleashed.

It let go, fleeing, retreating back through the portal. Belavierr hissed, but she watched, smiling, as Xrn flew back. The Small Queen put her good hand to the gap in her neck. Her eyes were flickering. She stared down at her missing arm and shoulder, at Belavierr.

yOu. i wILl RemEMbeR tHIS.

She flew back, trailing her life essence. Fleeing. The Stitch Witch watched her go. Then her head turned.

Now, the inn. Come, fates soldiers. Comelet us end this.

Monsters poured forth from the gaps she had torn open. Threads of fate. Mrshas, Xrns

Monsters of the dungeon. An accord had been reached. Grimalkin saw the suits of enchanted armor, Crypt Worms, Liscors dungeon disgorge a horde. They all converged on the inn, already fighting Hectvals army.

And there came Belavierr. Striding for the inn. She looked back as Grimalkin bellowed.

Belavierr!

He had seen Xrn flee. He had to know the difference between them. Even so

The Sinew Magus charged.

-

The Wandering Inn was under siege. The first battle to ever take place in the new inns walls.

That was to saythe first attack to ever truly come as the defenders had imagined. Against the hallway of traps, the reinforced walls and checkpoints.

Erin Solstice had been slain outside the inn. Belavierr had not been stopped by mere bulwarks of stone and wood.

It was almost refreshing to get a foe that had to obey the rules. Almost. But at leasthere was someone they could fight. They had failed time and again.

At last, the Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings discharged their debt.

First came the Doomslayers, in a desperate push, fleeing the [Witch]. On their heels came Hectvals army.

Hundreds of [Soldiers] had been sent to destroy the inn. They tried to set fire to it, smash through the windows. But the inn had withstood Creler attacks, an army of the undead, Face-Eater Moths and that was before it had been rebuilt.

[Soldiers] who managed to break the windows of reinforced glass found walls of magic blocking them. A Centaur blew out a cloud of noxious smoke that drove the [Soldiers] into a confusion, hitting each other. A Minotauress held one window, smashing helmets in until it was closed off.

An Antinium loosed arrows from the rooftop as Rags grimly aimed spells out the windows in the common room. Calescent and Ulvama were on the upper floors, keeping the enemies trying to climb up off.

Everywhere a bee buzzed, the attacks grew slack. [Soldiers] ran into each other, or heard the wrong orders. Kevin, Joseph, and Imani, were nearly about to be killed by a Drake whod climbed through the window they were trying to keep clear until Ishkr could reach them with a board and nails. They suddenly found themselves fighting with more skill than the confused Drake [Veteran] and drove him back out.

Fortress Beavers overwhelmed a Drake, bearing the confused [Soldier] down.

First [Soldiers] came, then monsters. They flooded around the inn, but the common room and even roof were easier to hold. Mrsha heard the shouting from inside the garden. She wanted to help, but all she was allowed to do was run from door opening to door opening, bringing potions and supplies to the others. It was more than enough; her healing potions passed through the door saved them more than once.

Antinium came to fight. They climbed out of the basement, rushing to where Rags and the unseen Niers directed them. Just in time; Mrsha saw a suit of armor grappling with Purple Smiles. Then a Flesh Worm trying to break through the outside.

Belavierr had called forth the enemies of the inn. That they failed to take the common room, and merely struggled at the windows, was because the vast majority of them broke in one place.

The hallway. That was where they came first. Hectvals [Soldiers], the Doomslayers. Then monsters. All three were there at one point, fighting each other, confused, unsure of who their enemies were, just knowing they wanted to kill everything in this inn.

They never made it into the common room. There they died. They tried.

Oh, the Plains Eye veterans, as skilled as Hectvals finestmore so. Drake [Soldiers], an army of them, far more than the treacherous fools who had killed the [Innkeeper]. Monsters, howling from the dungeons depths.

They were cut down by crossbows in the corridor, until their bodies blocked the arrow slits. Acid coated them, and they hammered on the reinforced walls, unable to break through. There was one entrance alone.

A [Bard] with a sword held that gap. A Hobgoblin who carried the dead with him. Who had waited for this day. To die here.

The men with hats fought by his side. Falling, despite Mrsha trying to save them. Some crawled away. Others lay still, never to pick their hats off the ground.

Numbtongue fought on. He slashed arrows in half, carved shell and bone and armor apart with the deadly sword that Pelt had made for him. No one had a blade to match his. Yet his body wasweak.

They wounded him with arrows and Skills and fangs. Spells burned him. His wounds healed and opened andhe stumbled. He was about to fall, and there was no man with a hat to block the blow. They lay where they had died. Numbtongue saw a snarling Drake charge at him.

A pair of curved blades swept the head from the shoulders. Numbtongue saw the [Soldier] fall, and stabbed the last Gnoll sent to kill Mrsha through the chest. He fought on, and saw a pocket open in the hallway.

Someone else was slashing about her. Clearing the bodies. Laughing. As if this was what she had waited for too. But she lived for this.

The onyx-scaled Drake caught his eyes as they slowed a second. The [Bard] hesitated, his sword raisedand the two held their ground, cutting down the monsters trying to get through.

Until the [Witch] arrived.

-

She stepped through the hallway filled with bodies, leaving the Drake [Mage] where he had been. He had slowed her for a little while.

A desperate Goblin blocked her way, covered in wounds. She looked at his sword.

Enough.

His clothing picked him up and tossed him aside. Someone kissed Belavierrs lungs with daggers enchanted to kill. Belavierr looked at the little Drake and threw her aside as well.

Inside the inn were Antinium and the annoying [Mages]. They turned on Belavierr, and she saw the little warlord raise his finger.

No more.

Belavierr clapped her hands together and the shockwave blew out the last windows. Mrsha was spared the fury of the spell; she stared in horror at the prone bodies.

The Stitch Witch stopped in front of the [Garden of Sanctuary]. She wasbreathing hard. Her dress was damaged, and she looked wounded. Xrn had hurt her. Yet Belavierr was still here.

We will end this now, Mrsha. Come out. Or

She lifted a foot and pressed it against a little bee and man. Mrsha heard a little crunching sound. She came out of the door. Belavierr pointed at her.

Stop!

Ulvama rose to her feet. She cast fire at Belavierr. The [Witch] turned, scowling.

Little [Shaman], get out of my way.

Half of Ulvamas magical paints burned off her body as a black bolt went through her chest. Niers sat up and roared.

Mrsha, run!

She ran. Away from Belavierr. Not to the [Garden]the brave, idiotic child ran out of the hallway, trying to draw the [Witch] away from her friends! Belavierr followed after.

Mrsha emerged into the area outside the inn. Where Erin had died. Monsters from the dungeon were everywhere. They turned on her, prey. Belavierrs quarry. Mrsha saw a Flesh Worm rear up, palps raised to drag at her, and Liscors army was so far away, routing Hectvals

Belavierr watched, smiling, in the doorway to the inn. At last. At last

She saw another of the girls threads appear. Wanderer, appearing out of nowhere again, striking with his quarterstaff. Annoying. But he was one Gnoll, and the monsters attacked him. Belavierr waited. Then she heard a familiar cry. A familiarunexpectedirritating cry.

The Eternal Throne of Calanfer! To glory! Protect the child!

The Stitch Witchs head turned incredulously. What? Here? But like the pests they were, the four golden [Knights] thundered up the hill, waving their swords.

Thronebearers.

Ser Lormel was first, hacking at a caterpillar-thing. Ser Sest, Dame Ushar, behind, riding around Mrsha, trying to drag her up, ride to safety.

The last of them rode at Belavierr. She looked up as Ser Dalimont called a challenge.

Stitch Witch! We meet again!

Ser Dalimont had known it was her the instant he heard about a [Witch] causing havoc outside. It had barely been thirty minutes and it was a sea of carnage! Only she could have done this. He rode at her, lance aimed at her chest.

I have seen you beaten and fleeing before! The Singer of Terandria laid you low; you will not triumph here! Begone!

Belavierrs eyes widened as he spoke. She looked up, saw Dalimont coming. She whirled, and he missed. Cursing, Ser Dalimont turned, bringing his lance down for a second charge. The Stitch Witch stared at the Thronebearer. He had been there. Princess Seraphel, Cara

Who are you?

Ser Dalimont struck home. Belavierr stared down at the lance in her chest. She reached outsnapped it. The Thronebearer swore.

Eternal Throne

There was no Cara here. He saw Belavierr glance at him. Then focus on Mrsha again.

Where are all these threads coming from? So many would die for one girl?

Yes.

Dalimont rode down on her, sword drawn. Belavierr pointed.

A needle went straight through his side and out the other end, tearing through armor and flesh. Dalimont wavered. He tried to hack at her as he passed. She didnt even stagger from the blow. He fell out of his saddle and Mrsha cried out.

Dalimont!

Sest saw the man fall. The Thronebearers and Wanderer were trying to get Mrsha out of the press of monsters. More kept coming. They were pouring out of the hole in the air. They hadnt overcome the adventurers defenses; Belavierr was summoning them directly.

Well never make the city! The innis it overrun?

Ushar turned to the others. Wanderer didnt reply; was there anywhere safe from Belavierr? The monsters weremore direct than she was, though. They were closer to killing everyone.

Rags stumbled to the entrance of the inn. Her ears were bleeding and she could barely see, let alone fight. She shouted.

Run! Keep running, idiots!

The [Knights] didnt see her, only heard the shout. They turned, trying to do just that.

Flesh Worms crawled at them. Dozens. Mini-Skinners. Each one more than a match for one Thronebearer. Rags stared at them, and the [Witch].

Some things never changed. Only got worse. She bared her teeth. That was fine. They changed. She changed.

-

A naked, gigantic worm reared up, herald of the dungeons evil. It reached down for Mrsha as Ser Lormels horse went down, screaming. He was pinned under it. Mrsha aimed her wand up at it.

[Arrow of Light]!

She spat a single arrow from her wand into one tiny little eye. The beast roaredthen its head exploded.

Mrsha stared at her wand. So did Wanderer, Ushar, and Sest. Belavierrs head slowly swung around.

What?

A second Flesh Worm went down. This timepinned. Like a worm with a needle run through it, appropriately. Mrsha saw the oversized bolt dig into the ground. Then another tapped a suit of armor and sent it sprawling, armor bowed in. She followed Belavierrs gaze and saw a shape flash overhead.

The Frost Wyvern spat ice over the monsters as Snapjaw dropped a jar of alchemists fire over another monsters face. The Wyvern flew on another strafing run, but another had dropped its cargo.

A small group of Carn Wolves led by Redscar and Thunderfur charged down the slope. The Goblin was swearing.

Chieftain! Find the Chieftain!

The others broke off as he charged into the fighting. Behind him, the Thunderbows fired again. The Hobs had set up on a hill and were firing the oversized bolts at range at the monsters.

Not at Belavierr; they had no idea what was happening; theyd only received her order to arrive now. Badarrow looked for Numbtongue; he was loosing arrows as fast as he could.

The monsters broke as the Flooded Waters tribe and 4th Company of Liscors army hit them from two sides. Zevara and Olesm had seen the fighting and turned back to help.

Countless armies, fighting, friends of the inn. It was like the movie Mrsha had used to chase away the darkness. A glorious, sad, brave story, even without the [Innkeeper].

The [Witch] lost her temper once more. She snatched a passing Drake from the saddle, one of Embrias 4th Company, and shattered every bone in the [Soldier]s body. She was growing. Her body grew, like the giant Mrsha had seen in her eyes.

Enough! Little threads of coincidence and chance cannot save you. You are dead, Mrsha! Dead!

She roared. Embria looked up at the [Witch].

What is that?

She had no idea, but she knew an enemy when she saw one. The Thunderbows changed their targets on Rags order. They fired

The bolts snapped in midair. Eighteen good [Soldiers] ran into a wall of shadows and never came out. Belavierr pointed and Dame Ushar shouted as her armorthe threads underneath picked her up and slammed her so hard into the ground she broke half her ribs.

Niers Astoragon shouted, saving Embria from the same fate with a Skill. Yet none of his worked on one target. And Belavierr fought all of them at once.

Grimalkin slammed into her, cradling his broken arm. She raised one hand and hit him so hard he collapsed. She strode towards Mrsha, ignoring everything and everyone.

I will take your skin and fur. I will destroy this inn, and the body of your beloved [Innkeeper] so she will never return.You shall not die, for I name you my enemy. I killed the [Lady] of fire who walked here. So perish all those who offend me.

Mrsha didnt run. Wanderer looked at her, pinned by his enchanted clothing and cloak. Mrsha couldnt run. How many more would get hurt because of thisthis evil, unstoppable, petty [Witch]?

Someone had to stand up to her. Mrsha raised her wand, glimmering with her little spells. The [Witch] bent down towards her.

Someone stepped forwards. He raised the smoking censer, and brandished the shield and club. He barred Belavierrs path.

Pawn.

The [Priest] had been with Yellow Splatters, leading the charge against Hectval. Xrn had promised him she would take care of the inn. Now? Pawn blocked this strange Humans way.

No one will hurt Mrsha. Which kind of strange enemy are you?

He was weary, and the simple shield and club had traces of blood on them. Pawn stood there, as Belavierr stopped. Mrsha looked up at him. Pawn, no! Dont do it! She went to tug at him and realized

He was standing in front of Belavierr. Everyone else had fallen down. Their clothing choking them, the very threads and dark bindings dragging them down.

The [Witch] stared at Pawns armor and clothing. She gestured; Pawns armored hood, customized for Antinium, moved slightly. He stopped it with his fourth arm.

Strange. Is she some kind of clothing-mage?

Strange. Youhave I ever met a thing like you?

The two regarded each other, equally puzzled. NoBelavierr more so. Pawn just saw a giant Human with a hat, threatening to kill Mrsha.

Begone, whoever you are. I will hurt you if you try to hurt Mrsha.

He brandished the shield and club. They werent magical. He held the censer in his other two hands, and it smelled of cinnamon.

Belavierr made an incredulous sound.

Begone, little ant. I have bested your great [Mage]. You cannot harm me.

Pawn glanced towards where Xrn had done battle. He nodded, slowly, not ignoring the truth of that. His head rose and his mandibles clicked softly as he looked up at Belavierr.

That may be true. But you will not harm Mrsha. I have promised.

So saying, he advanced. Belavierr was a giant now, forty feet tall. She could have attacked Liscors walls themselves. Pawn seemed comically small as he strode at her leg, covered by her dress. He charged and swung his club.

For Erin and the inn!

He did not expect to hurt her, just slow her, to save Mrsha. Belavierr expected nothing either. Mrsha saw her reach over Pawn, ignoring him. Pawn swung his club and smacked her shin.

And Belavierr winced. Mrsha saw the involuntary reaction run across her face, then a look of astonishment. Mrsha gaped too.

That was not Belavierr acknowledging pain, or stumbling. It was not her saying ow when her skin was on fire. It was actuallypain. She recoiled. Pawn swung his club again. Belavierrs face twisted into one of confusion.

Why?

She was normal-sized in a moment. She stared at Pawn, backing away. Then she bent andrubbed at her shin. Pawn hesitated.

I thought I was dead. What is this person? Some [Mage]?

He looked at Mrsha. She just gaped at him. Belavierr frowned.

I cannot see your class. Whatwhat are you?

She eyed Pawn, disturbed. He looked at her. Then he charged.

For the inn! Defend it once more!

Belavierr produced a staff of dark metal and blocked Pawns club. Light flashed and she stumbled. She stared at the artifact she held, and then Pawns club. It should have exploded, and taken the Antinium with it! Yet he had matched the Stave of Nerrhavia, given to the Stitch Witch long ago, like it was a relic of the same class! She tested it on a Flesh Worm crawling away nearby and it exploded.

Pawn flinched at the rain of flesh. He eyed the staff and backed up a step. Belavierr eyed his club and pointed at it.

How did you come by that relic?

The Worker eyed his club.

I bought it for three coppers on discount from a [Blacksmith].

The two looked at each other. Then Belavierr spun. Her eyes went wide, the replacement and immortal one.

What isthat?

Mrsha saw two figures advancing on her from the side. Niers, Ragseveryone lying on the ground looked up. Mrsha had seen, heard about the things Pawn could summon; he had told Lyonette about them.

But those were not Aberrations. Two glowing Workers stepped forwards, armed with simple weapons. They lookedlike Pawn. Yellow Splatters, lying prone, held down by the armor suddenly twice as heavy as lead, looked up and whispered.

Knight. Bishop?

Erin would make a pun. I cannot.

Pawn looked at the two Workers. They flanked Belavierr. She spun around, lashed out with her staff.

One of the glowing Workers vanished, mid-detonation as the staff struck his chest. The other lunged. He stabbed and she cried out.

How do these things exist? They should not be here!

She tore it apart with a hail of needles. It worked on the Worker, but she seemed unnerved. She whirled to Pawn.

Youstay back. [Deathlance]!

Mrsha saw the spell shoot at Pawn and screamed. The [Priest]s mandibles opened. The deathly spell struck the air around him andvanished.

A wall of light blocked Belavierrs magic. She tried again, this time with tendrils that melted as they tried to get close to him.

[Holy Barrier]. It protected Pawn. It was not invincible; it flickered as Belavierr struck it with her staff. It even went out from the third spell, overloaded.

Yet it unnerved her. The [Stitch Witch] looked at Pawn.

What are you? What is your class? How can you

He struck at her and there was another flash as she parried his club. She struckand her staff hit his shield, and was knocked aside. If she had touched him, he would surely have died. But the [Priest] fought on. He swung the censer like a makeshift flail and she recoiled from it.

Niers Astoragon saw Pawn slow, panting. The [Priest] gasped. An answer at last, as Belavierr backed up, wary of him. Yet she held the deadly staff. Pawn lifted the club, touched it.

[Weapon of Faith].

He looked up at Belavierr. The [Stitch Witch] stared at Pawn. Her eyes focused on him. She looked at him, the simple club, and where the two Workers had stood. The barrier of light.

Belavierr had challenged the [Garden of Sanctuary]. She had laughed at Erin. She had not acknowledged Grimalkin of Pallass.

She had only stopped when Xrn appeared, and she had bested her foe, outraged by Xrn underestimating her.

An army stood before hermultiple armies, and she had walked through them. Only Niers Astoragon had wounded her in a significant wayand only once.

Belavierr, that old legend, faced down all of Liscor and had not even contempt for them. Now? She looked at the slightly clumsy Worker, waving a club at her.

The Witch backed away. Pawn stared at her, confused. Then he saw Belavierr raise her staff. She struck the ground with it, and a wall appeared.

An old, gigantic wall. A fortress so old it seemed to bear every century on it. Yet the wall still stood.

For a second, Pawn stared at the wall, and fortress beyond. Called forth by the staff. Thenhe saw Belavierr walk through the walls. The Staff of Nerrhavia swung at his face.

Begone, mysterious thing.

She struck with all her might. Pawn blocked the staff and his knees buckled, chitin cracking with the impact. Belavierr whirled the bottom of the staff up, to strike his chest.

Bird shot her in the back of the head. She didnt blink. Bird stared at his bow, tossed it aside, and drew four kitchen knives.

Bird! Be careful!

Pawn saw Bird harrying Belavierrs back as he retreated, shield barely turning aside the deadly blows. Belavierr was strong and the staff had reach and could kill him in a strokebut she was more scared of his club than he was of her. She kept her distance, trying to touch him from afar.

Bird? She glanced over her shoulder and saw the Antinium. She flicked a fingerthen frowned. The Antinium spread all four hands. He had knives, and he had abandoned his bow, but he was missing his normal clothing, which was just his loincloth.

I am naked. You have no power over me. Take this! Stab, stabis this working?

She spun her staff horizontally. Bird ducked, slashed at her legs. He backed up slowly.

You are not a bird. Why can I not kill you? I have never met anything I cannot kill. Hm. Hiyah.

To Pawn and Mrshas horror, they saw Bird drop his knives. He jumped at Belavierr and kicked her in the shin. He punched her in the stomach, tried to go for an uppercut to her jaw, but he was too short. He stamped on her foot.

Belavierr tried to strike at him, but Bird whirled sideways. He gave her a jump-kick to her chest and Belavierr didnt move. Bird fell onto his back and waved his arms and legs as he tried to rock back upright.

This one does not hurt me. Why that?

Belavierr whispered. She just thrust the staff forwards and Bird flinched.

Uh o

A second time, the holy barrier blocked the staff. Belavierr recoiled. She whirled around.

How?

Faith didnt have a cool down. Pawn advanced from one side, giving Bird time to roll away and get up.

Bird, dont let her touch you. Pick up your knives.

They are Erins knives. Give me your power, Pawn.

I will.

The two Workers advanced, one from each side. And nowBelavierr saw Pawn look at Birds knives.

They did not glow. They did not shine. But she backed away from both, and saw more Antinium coming up the slope. They had also divested themselves of clothing; unlike the others, they cared nothing for nudity. Her eyes flickered to Pawn, to Bird, crabbing left to stab her in the anklesand she threw her head back.

Wretches! Do you think you can hurt me?

Suddenly, Belavierr boomed, and grew. Pawn recoiled and Bird hopped back. Belavierr was growing again! She pointed down, a giant with eyes flashing orange and evil.

I am the [Witch] who comes for the end of all stories! I am the last offer of age, the oldest of stories! I have toyed with you allyou now feel my wrath.

She pointed down at Pawn as the sky turned midnight behind her, like before. Dark threads spun through the sky as everyone looked up. Mrsha stared at Belavierr. Afraid, butwas shemonologuing?

Pawn also seemed confused. He advanced, but Belavierr swung a finger down.

You will know my ire, little thing, and I declare it on all your kind until the last of you die in your sleep of horrors I will inflict. Return to your deep nests on Rhir and stay my designs no further unless you wish my wrath. I

Her wrathful eyes flickered.

Hm. What else is normally said?

Pawn looked up, perplexed. He wasnt sure if this giant Belavierr boded better or worse, but he saw one of his kind move. Bird didnt care for speeches.

Aha! Got you!

He stabbed with all four knives at Belavierrs foot. Andthe blades passed through her. Bird stared at the knives, and gave Pawn a look of betrayal.

You made them worse. How could you?

No. No, you idiots. Shes getting away!

A voice shouted, male and furious, invisible, as people started getting to their feet. Embria felt her armor stop pressing her down. She realized it at the same time as everyone else.

The giant Belavierr who had been announcing her wrath and enmitywavered. Mrsha saw it vanish in a second. She gazed across the blank space, searching, knowing

There. Belavierr lowered her hands and stopped making signs in front of the lantern shed pulled out. She resumed walking away, blurring across the Floodplains with each step.

Pawn hesitated. He looked at the place the illusion had stoodthen at the distant [Witch]. His mandibles clicked a few times.

Huh.

Mrsha peeked around behind him. She saw Belavierr, but in the distance. The [Witch] wasnt looming anymore. The staff was gone. She was already a speck across the Floodplains, and with each step, she went further.

She wasrunning away. Mrsha couldnt believe it. Belavierr, who had faced down Xrnwas running?

She had not been afraid of Xrn, just wary. But this? The Stitch Witch played no games with her life. She had no idea what Pawn was. She had seen him give his power to Bird. So she ran.

Just ran away.

Everyone, the people from the inn, the army of Liscor, the Antiniumjust watched her go for a second. Running away after all shed done?

4th Company, with me!

Embria roared. She was in her saddle again, streaking after the figure. Dozens of people followed as well, shouting in fury. Pawn himself began to run forwards, but half-turned back.

Intuition, maybe. Belavierr was still looking back. And her eyes were still wrathful.

Mrsha stared after Belavierrthen jerked. Pawn whirled around and lurched forwards, charging towards her.

Mrsha

The arrow hit him in the stomach. It had been meant for Mrsha. A snarling Gnoll, the [Hunt Leader], still alive, gasped. Belavierrs magic, which had given him a second chance, faded. He collapsed, dead again, before Numbtongue speared him through the face.

Pawn!

Everyone was on their feet. Pawn reached for his stomach. He was murmuring.

[Heal Minor Wounds]. Poisoned? Of course. Of

Yellow Splatters shouted for an antidote. Not this time! Not

He saw everyone mix up around Pawn. Antinium, Drakes, Goblinssome of them baring their weapons at each other. Unsure of who was friend or foe.

Mrsha! Mrsha

One of them called out. A Goblin ran forwards, to where Mrsha had been. Numbtongue.

Someone else changed paths in the crowd. A Gnoll bounded forwards, sword raised. He howledbrought the sword down on top of

Nothing. Numbtongue ran the Doomslayer through. He looked around.

Mrsha!

She was gone. The Doomslayer died, howling. The Plains Eye warriors had failed! Butmore would be sent! They would find her! Find

Her? The others looked around. But there was no little white Gnoll. Not here. Or herewhere was she?

-

Embria broke off pursuit first. Belavierr was running, but as soon as she saw pursuers, she sent a flurry of needles through the airthen called fiery meteors out of the sky.

And that was to cover her escape. Embria aborted her pursuit instantly. It wasnt worth it. Yet every nerve in the Drakes body, in all of them, felt it was wrong to let Belavierr go. Not after all shed done!

Someone else pursued the [Witch], shouting profanities.

Get back here! You coward! Ill hunt you down! Do you think you can just run away? Do you know who I am?

Niers Astoragon tried to follow Belavierr. The [Strategist] was beyond angry. Apista flew with him, uncertainly. Belavierr was far too fast for them. Niers shouted obscenities at her back, infuriated. Andguilty.

Hed barely been able to touch her! All the [Strategist]s Skills had helped fight the army, but this [Witch]? Her craft was opposed to his. An old monster.

Niers killed monsters like that. He vowed to remember this, and turned back to the inn, disgusted. Then he felt a prickle on his back.

The Fraerling turned back just in time to see the distant [Witch] stop a second. And lift a tiny hand. I remember you too.

F

Niers dove. But Belavierrs parting gift flashed through the air. The tiny little sewing needle struck him in the stomach and nailed him to the grass.

He screamed, roaring, as he grabbed it. The [Witch] turned back and continued her journey. Niers Astoragon lay there, swearing, trying to pull the needle free. He couldnt, as Apista buzzed around him. Not until someone knelt down and plucked it out.

Niers looked up and cursed. By the time he returned to the innhe realized Mrsha was long gone.

-

No one saw Niers fallwell, only those who had been there. The rest was important enough.

Hectval in retreat. The [Witch] of legends on the rampage! You could write a headline with each storybut no one was going to.

They even missed the Gnollish assassins. It was understandable; to the observers, you might well focus on Belavierr alone.

Yet there was no Wistram News Network special. No commentary.

Wistram was watching, but the waxy expressions on half the Archmages faces meant Wistram was also close to throwing up. Naili feltuneasy. And saw it reflected on Viltach, Verdan Blackwoods expression.

On the other handFeor had focused on Xrn, and she had noticed his intense, even rapturous expression. Valeterisa? She was just fascinated.

Naili shuddered. The [Witch] who had used so many spells so casually was a nightmare to her. She tried to backtrace the other [Scrying] spells. Who else had been watching the firefight? Manus? Pallassdefinitely.

Someone had to say something after a scene like that. A joke, a wry commentsomething to break the paralysis. The Star Lamia swished her tail uncertainly. Then she cleared her throat.

Uhwho said the inn and Liscor didnt matter after the Human died? Go eat your tail. We have to do something about that place.

Belavierr? Wistram took one look at her and decidedto let her be.

It was not a sentiment shared by all. Chaldion focused on the image of the [Witch] with his one good eye. He made a sound in his throat. That had been lurking in his city? But that was one concern of many.

He had noticed the skills of a high-level [Strategist] and he read the news. Andhis claws danced urgent orders on the [Message] scroll as his quill scribbled.

Chaldion had noticed Mrsha was gone. But who was that Gnoll who had grabbed her?

-

Wanderer strode across the Floodplains, ignoring the kicking, biting Gnoll. He was panting, clutching at his wounds. He spoke, as he covered ground almost as quickly as Belavierr, albeit differently.

Let go of me, let go! Kidnapper! Smelly, evil

Mrsha couldnt speak, but she made her displeasure known well enough. She squirmed so hard and kept trying to cast thorn spells that Wanderer had to slow. He panted.

Stop struggling. Theyre coming after you. You cant stay here.

They were still close enough to the innbut he was already at the southern edge of the Floodplains. He looked back towards the inn. The inn, surrounded by the dead. Wanderer shook his head.

That[Witch]? An army of monsters and Drakes? Thats no place for a child. Madness.

He had seen a lot of things, but the battle had thrown him. Mrsha opened her mouth to howl so Wanderer covered it quickly. Accordingly, she bit.

Gahstop! Enough! Didnt you see that Gnoll? The [Witch] or nothe was coming to kill you! He was Plains Eye, do you understand?

Wanderer forced Mrsha off his paw and put her on the ground. She looked back at The Wandering Inn and him. He squatted down.

He was injured. Hed taken wounds in battlethe worst of them simply the twisted fur around his neck. His eyes had a bit of red in them; Belavierr had nearly strangled him to the death with his own cloak. Wanderer coughed.

I was trying to warn you. You have protectors.

Mrsha nodded. She had to go back! She backed away, trying to explainbut she had no quill or paper. She pointed at the inn.

Thats my home. Dont take me away!

She was poised to bolt, and Wanderer knew she would howl. He had only one chance, so the white Gnoll held out his paws.

Child. Mrsha. Look at me. Look atme.

She looked, at the white-furred Gnoll. The mysterious traveller who had hid from even the Brothers, and whom she thought was badbut had saved her? She hesitated. Wanderer nodded.

Im like you. I came here because I saw you on the scrying orb. White fur. If I saw youthey did too. You know Plains Eye?

Of course she did! She was a Plains Gnoll! Mrsha nodded. Wanderer pointed back.

They sent those Gnolls to kill you. Their best killers. Because of what they call you. And me. Doombringer. You know this, dont you?

Mrsha shrank. Nonobut she knew the rumors. She had known, in Liscor, that Gnolls feared her.

But those were City Gnolls. Krshia had learned. Shed be

They nearly got you, even with your protectors. Theyll come out of the shadows, theyll try again. More tribes will. They will burn down a city to kill you. That innyou have to hide. Its the only way. Come, I know where you can hide. Where youll be safe. There are more of us.

More of? Mrsha looked at him, astonished. Even soshe backed away. Wanderer cursed.

Girl! Youll put them in danger!

Mrsha looked at The Wandering Inn. That was her home, though. They loved her. Lyonette would come back and Erinshe couldnt abandon it. She looked at Wanderer and saw how worried he looked. She didnt believe he was lying. Even soMrsha thought of Pawn who promised to protect her. He was hurt because of her!

But run away? Mrsha drew in breath to howl, to call for her friends and protectors. Wanderer could have covered her mouth. He could have silenced her. Instead, he took a gamble and spoke.

That [Witch] wont forgive you, but even she will have trouble attacking you where were going. You know you might have drawn her? The attacksyou dont know how to control your power. Not yet. Youll put all of them in danger until you learn, and only we can teach you.

The breath caught in Mrshas throat. She made a soundlooked at Wanderer. He knelt there, panting.

Liar. Mrsha stared at him. Everyone saidbut it was just a myth.

Wasnt it?

He shook his head. The Gnoll fixed her with two serious eyes.

Whydo you think they fear you? Plains Eye? The other tribes? They forgetand they hate you because we are easy to blame. But there is a seed in every story, Mrsha. You dont know the power of your fur. It can help you, the last gift of your tribe. However, so long as you dont know it, you will endanger them all. Come with me, and I will protect you. Come; and you will be safe.

The Gnoll waited. He saw Mrsha recoil, her face turning to shock, horror. Thenshe looked back. Wanderer felt a pain in his heart. He did not want to tell her so soon. But the Doombringer looked at the other Doombringer. She did not resist as he slowly picked her up. Mrsha looked back at the inn, all the havoc and chaos.

Was it her after all? The Gnoll child wondered, hearing the terrible fear Belavierr had whispered to her.

Was itme, Erin?

She did not have the strength to fight as Wanderer ran with her. For a moment, she was all the doom that caused misery and pain to her family, and it was better if she were gone.

But her family knelt there, searching for her, grieving and worrying. Doom? They had faced the [Witch] of legends for her. What was mere doom?

They followed soon after.

Authors Note: No levels. There were more scenes I could have written; I have been editing at least for an hour, but Ive used all my energy.

This chapter, the last one which hasnt been published but is in editingare big chapters. And I am still working for two more updates, until the end of the month; Im going on a little vacation, and I might extend my usual break.

Either way, itll be rougher, but the chapter is done! I hope you like it, even though I could add bits and pieces. Levels, more with Ulvama, tighten and cut and

Well, Im exhausted, and the web serial pace means I cant. For some, important chapters, yes! But Id rather give this chapter to you than keep you hanging two updates. Rest assured, levels and consequences and what happens next are to come! But later. We have all the words I can type, and I can type a lot of words.

Thanks for reading and look forwards to more chapters coming at youafter I rest!

Belavierr, Horns Posing, Noears and Eater of Spears, and more by Gridcube!

The Florist, the Hill, and Belavierr by Lire!

Ko-Fi: /lightsresonance

Numbtongue and The Putrid Ones end by /illudanajohnsCommission /OmNDuK8.jpg