Book 8: Chapter 31

Book 8: Chapter 31

(Side story chapter AND edited chapter are delayed due toWindows Update. See Authors Note for details. Blame Microsoft.)

Across Izril, people and things were moving at high speeds.

At high relative velocitylike Ryoka expelling the contents of her guts onto the floor as the curse on her added a new layer of excitement to her life.

With great distances covered each day, as with the doughty band of Goblins, Antinium, HumansGnollVampireand Drake who marched down the road, on the lookout for attacks from Hectval or monsters or anyone, really.

Antinium, jogging along seemingly without the need to rest, behind riding Goblins, or next to the one wagon loaded with ammunition, supplies, and so on.

Octavia rode on that, feeling marginally less useful than the potions and ingredients shed loaded up. She watched as Garia, Fals, and Fierre jogged together, the dark umbrella over Fierres head bobbing. At Sergeant Gna, muttering to herself and staring at all the others.

The Goblins, arguing in their tongue. The Antinium, without sound following Bird, who was singing a Bird-song

Numbtongue, who rode at the fore of the group, aside from Snapjaw and Icecube scouting from overhead, and Xeu, somewhere unseen, also prowling for enemiesor maybe eliminating them without telling anyone.

The Goblin was emblematic of the party, by and large. He was silent. Grim. The others might be a bit more talkative, but they were committed.

Were going across Izril. In search of Mrsha. We might run into armies orwe dont know who took her.

Octavias voice as she murmured to herself made the group look back. Badarrows head swung around; it was Ulvama who turned. The [Shaman] barked at Octavia.

Gnolls.

As if that said everything that needed to be said, she turned and kept riding along, doing surprisingly well on her horse compared to almost all the other riders. She had actual experience, unlike some who thought you could just jump on a horses back and have it carry you off into the wild blue yonder.

Yes, butnow Im thinking of it, its huge. We might be going all the way to Zeres. We might be fighting

Octavia trailed off as someone looked back at her. This time it was Numbtongue. The [Bard] grunted.

Second thoughts? Go back. You might die.

Octavia met his gaze.

I know. Its not that, Numbtongue.

He eyed her, grunted, but Octavia was one of his few friends. So the [Bard] slowed a bit.

What, then?

This. Itsa great journey, Numbtongue. Ayou know.

Octavia looked around. Didnt the others see it? Gna just stared blankly at the Stitch-Girl. Salkis, the strange Drake, might have understood, but just grinned to herself, eyeing everyone.

Garias head turned. Fierre glanced up as Octavia elaborated for the blank Goblins and Antinium, who had politely turned to stare as they marched.

A quest. An adventure.

The Vampires head rose. She looked back at Octavia. Numbtongue was giving her a blank look, but Fierre smiled, a pointed grin. She hadnt wanted to say it either, but Garia looked at her and Fals and the City Runner gave them a small smile.

A concerned one, but the Humans and Vampire felt it.

The Goblins? They glanced at each other and chuckled. One of the Cave Goblins poked the Redfang. Adventure? They all snorted. Sounded like a good way to die.

The Antinium glanced at Bird for confirmation that they had inadvertently embarked on an adventure. Pivr wondered to himself if the Flying Queen would approve. Then again, if Ksmvr could do it, so could he. Bird tilted his head.

I did not order us on an adventure, Miss Octavia. I demand we unadventure at once. We are on a rescue mission. I am in charge here!

He waved one fist. Octavia looked at him.

No, Bird. An adventure just happens. Its not something we have to do.

Oh. In that case, your adventure is approved. Do we get anything out of it? Will we have to kill a Dragon? Im told it is difficult.

Bird had some passing understanding of adventures, but Gna just growled.

Great. Im going to be an [Adventurer]. I hope I get to Silver-rank at least. The Bronze-rank adventurer, Numbtongue, just gave Octavia a steady look.

This is not a game.

He was reproachful, and it was not necessarily easy to meet a Goblins crimson-eyed glare, especially as angry as Numbtongue was. Yet Octavia did it, and somehowhe blinked. Because the [Alchemist] was smiling.

I know that, Numbtongue. I do. But look how many people came together for Mrsha. Even with Lyonette gone. That terrible [Witch]but we still did it. Well get her back.

Even if we all die.

Bird chipped in unhelpfully. Octavia hesitated, but then nodded.

We all came for that. All of us. Likelike if Erin were here. Wed be doing just this, wouldnt we?

The band slowed. Ulvama nearly ran over Bird, and Salkis blinked. Fierre didnt know Erin that well, butshe saw the others look at each other. As if Erin

Badarrow smiled. Numbtongue did not, but he stopped a moment, and then nodded.

Maybe.

Then they kept moving.

It was just a short observation. Yet Numbtongue kept looking at Octavia. Somehow, her words had inspired something in the others. He was a [Bard]but she was teaching him something. He kept thinking of it.

When you put it like thatan adventure. A quest, in Erins name. Perhaps there was some romance in it, despite the dire hour. Because of the need.

To find the missing child and bring her home, across Izril we go. To the walls of the City of Waves or the High Passes, we fear no foe.

He tried out a few words. Something in him wanted to have the samebasis as the kind of tales you read in story books. How did it go? Find a missing sword, slay the Dragonfinding a little Gnoll girl was close, wasnt it?

Goblins, Antinium, Humans? What a strange band to be seen in southern Izril. Unprecedented. Well probably shock the tails off everyone we meet.

Salkis added happily, riding up to the other side. And well have to fight our way through them, hopefully.

A first for Izril.

Bird tilted his head. Of course, only hed heard that last bit. He glanced towards his belt where a little carrying bag hung next to his bag of holding. He nodded to himself.

An adventure. I would like any magical bows we find. Mine keep breaking.

Backs a bit straighter, the group journeyed on. Past the Bloodfields. Towardswell. Octavia sat back, pleased with herself as she reframed their journey for her own sake and theirs. After a moment, she decided to push her luck.

All this to say, if we are going to be on the road for a while, and I bet we are, and if this is a grand story and whatnotshouldnt we have some music? Some songs to march with, at least! Oryou know, ambiance?

All she heard were the sounds of horses moving, the jingle of packs, and the sound of distant insects buzzing.

Apista would have been hurt as she buzzed along, but she couldnt read minds.

Octavia frowned. Hardly the inspiring soundtrack like on that movie Mrsha had watched with her.

That was a good point. The groups heads slowly turned. Some music would pass the time. They all looked side-long at Numbtongue. The [Bard] stared ahead, until he realized who Octavia meant.

He hesitated. His hand nearly went for his guitar. Then he scowled.

No. This is serious.

Come on, Numbtongue. You always play the guitar!

No. Silence. Who sneaks up on enemies playing music?

[Stealth Bards]?

Sergeant Gna mused out loud, then turned red when everyone stared at her. A Cave Goblin started laughing. Numbtongue folded his arms. Garia called out.

Come on, Numbtongue! Just one song? You dont have to sing!

No.

You might level up! Youre a [Bard]! Play that one from the inn

No.

Salkis blinked. She pointed at Numbtongue, disbelieving as she turned to Garia.

Wait. This Goblins a [Bard]? I thought he was a [Swordsman] or something.

Nope. [Bard]. Waithow do you know Numbtongue? Whats your class?

Um[Aristocrat]. With a bit of combat classes. [Warrior], you know.

I shall sing if Numbtongue is incapable of singing. I know over a hundred bird-songs, all of which I have written!

Bird announced. He spread his arms wide and began to sing. Ulvama grunted and pointed. Bird kept singing, then stopped as he realized someone had just cast a silence spell on him. They proceeded on, spirits rising as they ate up ground.

Niers Astoragon didnt have many landmarks, but he calculated they might have a shot at reaching Pallass without the magic door in eight days or nine at the most. Fifty miles with his Skill a day was possible even with civilians, and everyone here was moving far faster. He smiled.

Adventure. The [Alchemist] was speaking his language. Duty mattered, his home and company mattered. Yet this? This was what hed come for.

-

Speed. The fastest-moving piece of luggage in all of Izril realized that she was being carried at a speed even a Courier might be impressed by. Even soWanderer seemed to grow tired after the first day of flight from Liscor.

He put her down shortly after midday. Mrsha glanced up; shed been carried under one arm, then held like little Gnolls in two arms. Then hed made her piggybackall of which shed done without much objection.

She had been still, almost motionless, a good piece of luggage after Wanderers revelation about the nature of her fur. Yet it seemed like the white-furred Gnoll with the traveling staff and cloak had a problem. He put Mrsha down, stretched his arms, sighed, swore a few times, and then pointed at her.

Youre going to have to run with me. Youre too heavy to carry. Well get a pony for you, but I cant carry you another day.

Mrsha looked up at Wanderer and folded her arms. Her blank-eyed look of sad guilt turned into an expression vaguely reminiscent of her mothers look.

See here a minute! She wagged a finger at the Gnoll. You cant just carry me off, tell me Im Doom and then tell me I have to do all the running to wherever were going to! Am I a [Damsel] or not?

Wanderer looked blankly at the indignant little Gnolls face and her flashing paws.

I cant understand whatever youre saying. Bite my furCoinpurse owes me a hundred drinks. ListenMrsha. Were going to have to change your name too.

He squatted down. The Gnoll fixed Mrsha with a serious look, his brown eyes intent on her. Mrsha slowed. She didnt know his name, his class, or where they were going. She was going willinglyor not trying to bite himbut she was still closer to a hostage than companion.

Yet she had to know. If she had gotten ErinMrsha swallowed as Wanderer looked at her.

I know you dont trust us yet. So why dont I tell you more, hm? Im sorry; Im trying to put as much distance between us and Liscor as possible. Plains Eye will try again, and we had better be out of their search radius. Give methirty minutes to stretch and well see if you can keep up. If not, Ill carry you. Ive carried Gnolls before, day and night, but Id rather not if I can help it. Youre a bit too heavy compared to a cub.

Mrsha stared down at herself. Heavy? She was a little Gnoll! Wellshe had grown a bit, but she wasnt fat, no matter what Lyonette thought!

That was true; Mrsha was a healthy, growing Gnoll girl. So, a lot more than a Human girl her age. When she shot up to her full height, she might outweigh Lyonette by over a hundred pounds and be far taller; Krshia made even Ryoka seem fragile.

Wanderer sat cross-legged with a sigh. He unslung his pack, which was really his bag of holding. It was light as could be, Mrsha being the real weight. He fished around inside, and pulled out a cube of meat.

As in, a square of meat, perfectly geometrical. Mrsha eyed it as he stacked twoeyed her, and pulled out three. He offered her one and bit into the first.

Here. Travel rations.

Travel what? Who ate geometry? What is this? Mrsha went to slap the cube out of his paw. Patiently, Wanderer jerked it out of the way and offered it again.

Eat. Im sorry if you think its bad, but taste it first. Its traditional travel rations. From Salazsar. Which is where were going. Drakes and their systems. They stack it up like this so it fits best in bags of holding. Its meat and grain andit keeps almost forever in bags of holding. Dry, though. Let me grab some tea.

He fished in his bag of holding for a canteen, a bit annoyed. He was used to Gnolls fleeing imminent death, not picky little Gnolls who were used to pizza and decadence. Mrsha though, had gone still.

Salazsar? Whats this now? Wanderer shrugged as he met her startled gaze.

I told you Id explain. I was in a hurry yesterday and I dont talk when Im moving at that speed. Ever swallowed a bug while going that fast? Itsno. Salazsars our destination. In case I forgetif we get separated, go there. Ask forhm. Ask for Shadepaw at a bar and youll meet with Shadows. Thats one of her aliases. Go on, eat. Do you not eat scurry food? Please, tell me you do.

Mrsha sat and poked at the cube. She broke off a piece and found it was dense, and not actually bad when she nibbled at it. Not great; it could use some seasoning. Some kind of base food. Slap it on a pizza, actually, add some cheesemaybe a bun and lettuce and other plants for the taste? Actually, just give her a hamburger.

Since there was no burger, she ate. She was a Plains Gnoll! True, she had come to the inn, but Mrsha was still a rugged traveller of the Stone Spears tribe, who had lived in the wilds. She hesitated, then fished for her writing equipment. Wanderer stared at the little note.

No, I dont have a plate.

Lyonette had rubbed off on Mrsha more than the Gnoll knew. Mrsha ate huffily, and Wanderer scarfed the first cube down, and poured some dark liquid into two wooden cups. He handed Mrsha one. It was old tea, long-steeped in tea-leaves, but still not too bitter. Refreshing, really.

Its got natural stamina effects. Eat up. Want another cube?

Mrsha shook her head. Wanderer sighed. He sat cross-legged, massaging his aching shoulders. He felt at his side, winced.

That damn [Witch] got me with needles. I havent been in a fight that bad sincehm. Two other times, really. Hey, do you see a needle in me?

He pointed. Mrsha stared obediently. Then she frowned. She pokedWanderer swore.

One second.

He slowly felt around, and grasped multiple times with his paws before his claws pulled out a tiny, woodenMrsha winced and looked away. Wanderer tossed it on the ground.

That. Hurt.

Mrsha was reminded that this Gnoll had bled for her, nearly died to protect her. He was due some consideration for that, so she listened as he went back to eating, no longer plagued by that stinging in his side.

Alright. Im Wanderer. Youre Mrsha. I suppose nows the time to start from the beginning. Were both white Gnolls.

He gestured to his fur as he rummaged in his bag of holding. Mrsha nodded.

Good observation, genius.

Wanderer frowned at her note card.

Youre not what I expected. When we heard of youour group, that is, all Gnolls with white furwe thought youd be wanting to go with us. That innseemed nicer than I could have believed, especially in a city with Gnolls.

Mrsha nodded. Wanderer sighed as she held up a card indicating how mean he was. With a little frowny-face for emphasis. Shed learned that from Erin.

We were still right. Plains Eye was on you and believe metheyd have launched a sneak-attack if they hadnt been caught up in that [Witch]s attack. The first thing they do isjust walk into a room and stab you. Into your shop, into a bar and youre dead. If that fails? Theyd wait until you took a walk, until you had lowered your guard. A thousand paces out, a Gnoll with a bow looses one arrow. Thats how it happens.

Mrsha felt a chill. It was too much like how Erin had died to be flippant about. Wanderer grimaced, seeing her sober face.

Argh. Im not good with children. Im sorry. Im just rescue. Coinpurse is going to have my hide.

He kept using those names. Coinpurse, Shadows, and Spellcaster. Wanderer explained.

Were leadership of the Gnolls in Salazsar. Theyre aliases. Do you know what that word means? Okay, stop writing, I can see you do. Thats how youll know us. We have names of course, but theyre not our real ones. You can scry real names. For instance, mine? Wer.

Wer, or Wanderer, indicated his chest.

Its the name I use and Ive gone by for nearly seven years now. You can call me that. Mrsha stared at the Gnoll. Wanderer was better. He shrugged.

Fine then. Just remember. There are four of us. Wellfour of what youd call leaders. There are nearly three dozen of us in total.

Mrsha began choking on her bite of cube. Three dozen? White Gnolls? She stared at Wanderer. He grinned.

The biggest gathering of white Gnolls in all of Izril. Perhaps all of us aside from a few who go their own way. What, did you think you were unique? Im afraid were a bit more common than you know. But we die if Plains or even City Gnolls find us, usually. Some of us are survivors; a few were in groups. Last Gnolls of a dead tribe. A few are children who were born by the survivorsthey count even though their fur isnt white.

Mrsha listened, taking it in. Salazsar. She had wondered where they were going, and worried because she had to tell Lyonette she was alright. She needed to know whatever Wanderer knew about her powers, butSalazsar made things more interesting.

She knew a certain Drake, a Wall Lord in that city. He might behelpful.

Wanderer didnt notice how acquiescent Mrsha had suddenly become. He went on, rubbing at his head.

Some of the Gnolls are low-leveled. Almost all are [Survivors], like you, but we four are the best. We all have a different role.

He gestured at his chest.

They call me Wanderer because I travelled across the world before I found more of my kind. Shadows fell into the underworld of gangsshe still is. Theres also Coinpurse, who began it all by organizing us; he funds our rescues and makes sure we all have enough money. Hrr. You might go with him; you need someone to watch after you. Or Spellcaster. Hes not good with children either, but he knows magic. Real magic, not [Shaman] spells.

So they knew that Gnolls could be [Mages]? Mrsha wrote furiously and Wanderer nodded. He looked a bit disappointed.

So you figured that out too? Its just one of the things Plains Gnolls refuse to understand. Like us. They call us Doombringers, but thats not all of our power. Take it, use itthats the power our tribes left us. Fate, thats how Spellcaster talks about it. Were fated.

Mrsha looked down at herself. Fate? It made sense; she thought of the Raskghar, the monster attacks, all the things, important, good and bad that had happened around her. But that meantshe wrote with a trembling paw.

But do I hurt other people by being? How does it work?

Ill show you. Later. For nowits been thirty minutes. We have to keep moving.

Wer got to his feet. He gestured, and Mrsha stood up reluctantly. They tossed the cups back into the bag of holding and left almost no trace they had been there.

The two stood on a craggy hill, which Wanderer had been climbing most of the day. The rolling greens that Mrsha envisioned of the Great Plains and the rest of Izril from her tribes stories bore little truth here. Wanderer was hurrying along the foothills of the High Passes; rough terrain.

He could still move, though, with astonishing speed, yet it seemed Mrsha was slowing him down. The Gnoll pursed his lips and looked at her.

I have movement Skills, but theyd work on both of us as well as one. If you could run on your own paws, that would help me and let you move about rather than be carried.

Mrsha nodded dubiously. She had been feeling a bit too much like a sack. She began to pad forwards on all fours. Wanderer stopped her.

Not like that. Well never get anywhere if you just scamper about. Not through your shifting years, eh? Well, either way, youll need to move faster than that.

That was it. Mrshas eyes narrowed. Shed had it up to chin-height with this mean Gnoll, who didnt give her plates and utensils, stole her from her inn, and now disparaged her weight and speed! Without a word she leapt forwards and began racing down the hill.

She expected Wanderer to chase her or call after, but the Gnoll made no sound. Mrsha ran down the hill as fast as she could, stumbling a bit, slowing and dodging the huge rocks that jutted out from the loam. She wondered if this was some kind of geographical feature; stone stuck in hills. Maybe, as a [Druid], she could use her powers better here

Mrsha passed by Wanderer as he leaned against a boulder and nearly face-planted as the ground leveled out. She turned to stare at him. He wasnt breathing hard, nor had she seen him pass her!

No, keep going. Show me how fast you are.

The Gnoll looked amused. He gestured up the hill. Mrsha hesitated.Even Numbtongue wasnt able to catch her at full run!

She began running up the hill, glancing back at Wanderer. He stayed there, watching her. It was slower-going uphill, slower by far. Mrsha labored, and as she was racing to the top of the hill, panting, she saw Wanderer move.

He took three steps and jumped. Mrshas jaw dropped. She saw him bound up the slope, jumping from rock to rock and land in front of her. It had taken himsix seconds. Mrsha nearly a minute and a half. Panting, she gazed up at him.

He winked.

Would you like to learn how to run properly?

-

A few minutes later, Wanderer stood on a bare patch of grass and gave Mrsha her first lesson. She was still breathing hard, but he was going to show hersomething.

We all have something to teach you. I? I am the [Farthest Traveller]. Anda [Guardian]. There are things I can teach you. This is the key to travelling fastwell, one key.

So saying, the Gnoll walked forwards. He did a little pose, like he was beginning to squat. It looked stupid, as he swung his arms back and forth, looking at Mrsha.

Stand. Like thisand then just hop and curl up. You swing your arms like this. Hm. The rest is knowing not to be scared or if something is off. Try it.

She gave him a look of moribund enthusiasm; this was not the mood for learningwhat? A day, or even two, was not enough to wash away the gloom of Belavierr and leaving her home! Didnt he know that? What was this, anyways?

I am going to share a Skill with you, but it doesnt work unless you know how to use it. You might even pick it up yourself if you work hard. Listencopy me. You can do it on all fours, but its easier standing up.

Reluctantly, Mrsha stood on her two legs and made the potty pose as she instantly labeled it. She swung her arms, feeling the unsteady momentum carrying her forwards.

And what am I supposed to do now, go splat on my face? She glowered at Wanderer. He nodded approvingly.

Good. Then the next part is pushing off. Thenyou do this.

He did a little hop, and his body rotated in the air. Mrshas jaw dropped.

Wanderer did a flip, and landed on his feet. It was so casual, so elegant that Mrsha was dumbstruck! Shed only seen one person ever do a flip like thatRyoka. And she had done her tricking and big stunts.

This? This was a casual flip, as if there was nothing to spinning your entire body around. Wanderer gestured.

You try it.

Me? What, just like that? Wanderer smiled at Mrshas expression as she backed up a step.

Its simple. Youre young; dont think about it, just do it. Ive tried to teach adults and they cant imagine it. You can flip as easily as hopping. See?

To prove it, he walked a dozen paces and did six hops, each one a front flip without breaking stride, stopped, and did a tremendous back flip towards Mrsha. She backed up.

No way! I cant do that! Ill land on my head!

I will catch you. This is the trick. Go on.

Encouraged despite the odd lesson, Mrsha stood on her two feet. She wasnt a perfect walker or runner, but this? She frowned, tried to copy Wanderers instructions, and did a mighty hop!

Wanderer stared as Mrsha landed on all fours on the grass. The Gnoll girl gave him an abashed look. Shed forgotten the flip part.

Try again.

Mrsha stood up. She hesitated, swung her arms, hoppedand felt someone push her head slightly and legs at the same time in opposite directions. Mrsha spun, screamed silently as she felt herself go spl

Nearly.

Wanderer caught her. Mrsha stared at the ground, up at him, and then tried to bite his arm. He put her down.

Try again. Now you know how it feels.

Mrsha glowered, but she had felt it. You tucked your head down and just Mrsha did a hop, and then flipped. The world spun around her in a terrifying, amazing second, and then she felt an impact.

She landed on her butt and stared. Then laughed in silent delight! Look at that! Ryoka had never taught her

She looked up as Wanderer loomed over her. He smiled, once.

Now land on your feet. And spin a bit more. You need to practice so you know exactly when to stop and how far to go.

-

Ten minutes later, Mrsha could flip whenever she chose. It was actually not that hard once you got into it, and the fear of smacking the ground was the biggest impediment.

Shed done just that eight times, and Wanderer had lied when hed said hed catch her! Well, he had protected her head twice, but the little bumps werent fun!

Nevertheless, he was a somewhat good teacheralthough Mrsha found his new instructions to be odd.

No. You are jumping too high. Lower. I will catch you if you fallthis time. As low as you can.

He didnt just want her to learn how to do a flip, he wanted her to learn how to do a tight front-flip, barely an inch off the ground.

She resented his instruction, but the girl had to admitthis was something Lyonette would never have countenanced, and more physically amazing than anyone but Ryoka had ever shown her.

Mrsha found the challenge exhilarating; she could feel her fur touching the ground if she did it right. She did three super-compact flips in a row, and then Wanderer nodded.

Good enough. You wont hurt yourself if I dont catch you. Now, it will take some getting used to, but if you get used to it, well be moving even faster within the hour.

Used to what?

Mrsha frowned, a bit dizzy. She didnt see how this translated to his jumping ability.

For answer, Wanderer placed a paw on her shoulder. He looked at Mrsha as he hefted his walking staff.

There are more classes in this world than we can dream of, Mrsha. All with little secrets and Skills. Mine? Mine is [Traveller]. A generalist class. Some call it useless. Yet there is a trick in my class. Do you know what it is?

Mrsha raised one eyebrow. Youre going to tell me anyways.

Wer grinned with all his teeth.

The trick isI have the potential to learn almost any Skill that I encounter. From any class. Soheres something I learned on my long journey. [World Traveller: Grasshoppers Run].

He touched Mrshas fur and she felt her hair lift as a sensation ran through her. She felt Light.

Mrsha stared up at Wer. What had he said just now? The Gnoll saw her look and knew what she was curious about.

Its my school of Skills. World Traveller. It encompassesspecial Skills. He hefted the enchanted staff he carried, which appeared to be plain wood, but had been tough enough to survive Belavierrs battle.

Staff art. Running technique used by [Rangers] and the like. Stealth Skills I learned from my travels. Enough of that. Follow me. And rememberflip.

Without a word, he jumped. Mrsha saw him bound down the hill, racing down the grass and rocks without slowing. She hesitatedand then followed a second later.

They bounded down the hill, and this time Mrsha felt gravity loosen its hold on her. She raced, on all fours, and realized what his Skill did.

When you ran up a hill, and even down it, you were careful. Even the fastest runner downhill watched for cliffs, gaps, slowed to avoid the uneven terrain.

Wanderer raced down the hill in nearly a straight line, avoiding only the biggest obstacles. It was more like he wasfalling, and pushing himself even faster and faster down the slope!

Mrsha copied him. She was fearless suddenly, and part of it was surely the Skill helping her. She leapt, her paws barely touching the ground. Fast! Faster!

Run as if you were falling, pushing off the ground in bigger leaps and bounds as you leapt.

The two flashed past an antelope bounding down the slope, away from the potential predators. The silly creature actually stopped and stared at them flying past. Mrsha could almost hear its thoughts.

I thought I was fast!

Then it happened. As Mrsha was running, she saw a rock straight in front of her. She swerved to avoid and her paws slipped on a patch of stones. She hurtled towards the rock and then pushed

Mrsha flipped over the top of the boulder. She landed, turned her head, wide-eyed, looking back at the amazing stunt shed pulled, and nearly fell into a crevasse. Wanderer laughed as he caught her.

Youre a natural after all! Nowwatch. This is how you complete [Grasshoppers Run].

So saying, he transferred Mrsha to one arm. Then Wanderer planted the stave he was running with on the ground. He pushed hard and vaulted over the small crevasse with Mrsha under one arm.

For a momentthey flew.Then, Wanderer put Mrsha down and they ran on. She bounded up slopes, jumped, and flipped, twisting through the air. Laughingfor a second just enjoying herself. Until she saw Wanderer grinning and realized it should have been Ryoka. Mrsha turned to look back, but she didnt know where Liscor lay.

Andshe had to know. Mrsha followed Wanderer. To learn the truth of her fur. Her power.

She realized what it meant soon enough. For

They were being hunted.

-

Inkar was used to Gnolls by and large after having been adopted by her tribe.

She was not used to Ekhtouch, but circumstances had contrived to put her in close proximity with one of the more unique tribes of Gnolls in the world.

I do not know if there is any circumstance in which they would welcome us into their camps in this way. Even if we were allies in another Meeting of Tribes, it would be political, not like this.

[Shaman] Cetrule whispered as Satar, Cers, Inkar, Tkrn, Krshia, and a group of other Silverfangs came to visit the Ekhtouch Tribe. Akrisa was still talking with Chieftain Firrelle and the others, who were considering the angle of Earth in a new light.

The cat was out of the bag, to use Roses expression, a phrase that invited a lot of questions when shed used it and everyone else scrutinized her hobbies. It was not what Krshia wanted, having planned to reveal the secret of Earthbut now that Steelfur knew, things were moving fast.

Politics in large made Inkar nervous, but the concrete benefit in the small wayor not so small as she turned out to be was the giant, Gire.

A fifteen year-old Gnoll who was second-tallest of any Gnoll here. Smart, quickshed snuck up behind Tkrn and Inkar to stare at the phone. Sweet too; she had apologized so much for overreacting. It was thanks to her, and her alone that Ekhtouch had decided to put their weight behind the other tribes.

It was not just Firrelle, either. Why else were so many Gnolls staringalbeit from behind the hide walls each tribe used for privacys sake at this odd turn of events? Ekhtouch was busy setting up their camp.

Next to Silverfang. It was a bit of an uproar in the Meeting of Tribes. They had abandoned their spot in the center of the gathering, uprooted their tents overnight, and were settling in over here. Countless Gnolls were wondering what had happened. Why had Ekhtouch decided to move here and state their affiliation so openly?

Gire. When she had convinced her Chieftain to support Akrisa, Inkar had known she had influence, but she was still a child.

It turned out Ekhtouch saw things differently. When Gireulashia spoke, they listened.Not only thatthe Gnolls of all three tribes were told they had free access to the Ekhtouch camp, with the obvious proviso that Gire and the others could mingle with them.

They have never granted such rights before! Not even to the other great tribes! It must be Honored Gireulashia. Please, Honored Inkarrtake care not to offend her.

I will.

Inkar assured Cetrule, who was admonishing Satar and Cers the same way. The younger [Shaman] gazed at the Ekhtouch Gnolls, half-nodding to Cetrule as Cers listened to his father, peeking at them.

They knew it was important, buteven Krshia was distracted. Because Ekhtouch was so interesting.

The young of Ekhtouch were almost never seen outside of their tribe. Perhaps because Ekhtouch had a reputation to maintain; any flaws in their perfect people might reflect on their productwhich was them.

There were many things to be made uncomfortable by, since they were a species that did what Terandrian nobility did; breed for perfection. That you could do it in this worldwell, Inkar was no fool, but she understood Ekhtouchs arranged matches had produced many ties in the Meeting of Tribes and as they met other tribes.

Satar herself was a product of that relationship, and so some of the Gnolls regarded her like ahalf-cousin. Marred by imperfection, yet one of them, family forever because she was a descendant of the same ties that kept their tribe alive.

It made Satar patently uncomfortable. Inkar, though, was drawn to the children.

Like Gire, they were all larger or quicker than other children their age. They had smooth fur of all colors, and they were nimble and quick. They learned and grew fast, such that she was astonished to see a walking Gnoll cub who was only a year old! Even Cers couldnt walk on two legs unless someone made him.

Can I play with them?

Cers whined. Cetrule hushed him, but one of the children had spotted Cers. Ekhtouch and Silverfang watched as a girl raced over on all fours.

We are allowed to speak with you. You are Silverfang. Do you want to play tag?

She spoke, a bit too eloquently, and Cers blinked. But in a second he was grinning and showing her a ball Aunt Krshia had given himhe tossed it and they were racing off like a shot. Cers wasnt too slow to play taguntil Inkar realized he was playing with children several years younger than he was and they were just as fast or faster.

The interesting thing was their games. Tag, fetch the ball, those were normal. But as the Silverfangs walked the camp, looking for Gire and trying not to openly spy, they heard two teenage Gnolls talking as they fletched arrows. One spoke.

Weasel.

The other returned, unperturbed.

Lech.

Harlot.

Tease.

Embarrassment.

Temptress.

At that, the other Gnoll glanced up. He sniffed at his companion, looking victorious.

I am male. It does not follow.

Temptress can be male or female, I opine. You just ran out of insults that begin with s.

She snapped back. Inkar looked from one to the other and realizedthey werent insulting each other, they were playing a word-game.

Sycophant.

He retorted instantly, and she wavered just a hair too long, lost, and threw down her arrow in disgust before they began again.

Animals, next. Taurus.

Snake

Meanwhile, the children Cers age were eager to show this strange Gnoll boy some more games. One paused, ball in hand.

Lets show him the game of Triumphs! Me first, me first! Ill dowords and ball and tumbling!

Only three?

The others mocked her. The Gnoll girl glared around.

Just to show. Four, then. How aboutmaths?

Ill do it! Cers, you can play too.

Whats Triumphs?

Cers halted on his bum, looking interested as the Gnoll hefted the ball a few times, gauging the leather orbs weight and the Gnoll whod volunteered to help with maths stared at the sky, thinking. The other Gnoll boy explained.

You prove you can do all four! Watch! Shes going to do fouritll be easy. Ready?

Ready!

The girl had dusky-grey fur with a striped orange pattern, like a tiger in a way. Inkar slowed as the others counted down.

Three, two, onego!

The Gnoll girl bounded into action. First, she tossed the leather ball up. Not straight up, and not too high! It flew in a lazy arc in the air, with plenty of air time. Thenshe began to speak as she burst into, of all things, a cartwheel.

My fur is silky butter and I have no graying hairs or wen, They envy me from the Walled Cities, Baleros, and Terandria, I race against all Centaurs and I wrestle only Minotaurs

She cartwheeled across the ground, singing, towards the falling ball. Cers jaw dropped, but it wasnt over yet. One of the children shouted.

Eighteen six times!

The Gnoll girl heard, but didnt slow. She came up, out of the cartwheel, still singing without missing a word.

I know of ancient chieftains and shaman tales historical

The ball landed in her paws. She smirked around, but uttered a triumphant finisher to the display of Triumphs.

96!

The Gnoll children, who had been watching with appreciation stopped. Then a chorus of jeers rang out.

Wrong! You failed!

The Gnoll girl froze, and was then pelted with clods of earth and bits of grass. Cers looked confused.

But she sang and caught the ball and

Eighteen six times is a hundred and eight! Not ninety six, stupid!

The other Ekhtouch children shouted at the Gnoll girl, who hung her head all of six seconds before raising it.

Fine, someone else do four! I wasnt prepared because I was just showing three!

Ill do five! UmIll do math, juggling, um

Another Gnoll boy volunteered. The others began to throw in ideas.

Eyes closed!

No, that should be worth two. Do another song! Sing Oh, Jolly Drakes.

Too long!

Triumphs was a game only Ekhtouch could have invented, where you demonstrated your ability to perform multiple tasks. Cers looked nervous when they wanted him to do it; math would be his downfall even if he was allowed to do just that.

Astonishing. Thats what their children do?

Krshia muttered to herself, eyeing the childrens game, which they seemed to be enjoying, even competitive at. She doubted this was a show; no other tribes mentioned these odd games. This was what Ekhtouch did for fun?

It might explain why the giant child herself, albeit taller than the adults, hurried towards them with such interest in her eyes.

Inkarr! Tkrn! Honored Krshia, Shaman Cetrule, and Shaman Satar, I welcome you to the Ekhtouch camp. Please, accept the hospitality of the Ekhtouch; need you any refreshments?

She greeted the two excitedly, her tail wagging, then remembered the others. Her bow was graceful, her tone measured. But when Krshia and Cetrule shook their heads, she was all too eager to bend down.

May I see it again, Inkar?

Of course, Gire.

Inkar carefully offered the iPhone up to the excited Gnoll [Paragon]. Gire beamedfor all of two seconds before one of the Ekhtouch called out to her.

Honored Gireulashia, they are playing a game of football with the equipment from Liscor. Chieftain Firrelle wants you to participate.

I amentertaining our guests!

Gire called over her shoulder, peevishly. The Ekhtouch Gnoll was made of sterner stuff than most; maybe it was the silver in her mane that Krshia suspected indicated she had helped raise Gire.

She knows. One point, Gire.

Very well. Inkarr, I must go play this game. May I see it after I come back?

Gire handed the iPhone back. Bemused, Inkar nodded.

Of course. If you want to play

To her surprise, Gire scowled, not at all enamored by the game which a lot of Gnolls found so enjoyable.

No. It will be quick.

-

The game of soccer or football depending on where you were from was popular among Izrils people. Baseball had its charms, but kicking a ball around was something anyone could do. All you needed was the ball, after all, and Joseph was a celebrity.

So small wonder countless Gnolls wanted to play with the balls that Rose had brought with her from Liscor. The autographed ones courtesy of Joseph were being carefully gifted by Akrisa.

Then again, this game was all about showing off, and there were Gnolls from numerous tribes trying to prove that Pallass team would be nothing in the Meeting of Tribes.

They certainly had lots of Skills. One Gnoll kicked the ball so high that Inkar swore it was nearly a minute in coming downhe was told not to do that again. Another Steelfur Gnoll playing goalkeeper blocked a shot at five feet awaywith his face. She just blinked and laughed as the ball bounced off her fur.

Gire stomped into the field, not looking as excited as the others. She had been ordered to score a goal, to prove Ekhtouch could do anything. The other Gnolls, [Warriors] and [Rangers], even a [Chieftain], looked like they were still having fun.

Ekhtouch is playing? Thats Honored Gireulashia! Lets see how she does! A Gnoll from Emaspaths tribe has the ball and she looks quick!

A Gnoll was taking Drassis job of announcer. Sure enough, a Gnoll was leaving a blurred path across the field as some Skill took her forwards.

Gire stood a dozen paces in front of the goal on her side and scratched at her arm, looking unhappy. Already, the soccer pitch had been doubled in size and it might need to be tripled, depending on the Skills at play.

Inkar was curious, so she watched only Gire as she stared at the game. Gire was at once shy and imposing, intelligent and childish. She seemed happy enough to race about; was it just the iPhone that made her so unhappy?

The Emaspaths Gnoll saw Gire standing in front of the goal, and wavered. Another Gnoll raced forwards, waving a paw.

Here!

They came towards the Steelfur Gnoll again, watching out for Gire as more Gnolls ran after themor slowed to see how Gire would do. The [Paragon] stood still, staring around, scratching her armwaiting.

Both Gnolls slowed, but then the Emaspaths [Scout] shot towards the goal. At the last moment, she kicked the ball towards the other Gnoll. He responded with a shout.

[Dust Kick]!

He actually had a kicking Skill! The [Fighter] didnt kick the ball, but rather, dug his foot into the ground and then kicked up a wall of dust over Gire.

And the spectators. They cursed and coughed as the [Grasslands Fighter] passed the ball back to the [Scout]. Another move that was going to end up with the player disqualifiedbut the [Scout] launched the ball back at the goalkeeper, who was still facing the [Fighter], drawn in by the feint and Skill, shielding her face.

Gire had also closed her eyes when the dust storm rose. She stood as the [Scout] kicked the balland then whirled. She pivoted on the ball of one foot as the [Scout] kicked the ball straight towards the goal.

Inkar hadnt been in the way of the dust. She saw it all.

Like a piece of puzzle coming together, Gire stepped in one motion over to a point only she could see and pivoted on one foot. Her other leg flashed up, coming around in an arc to meet the ball flying towards her. The [Scout] gaped as it seemed to the audience as if shed kicked it straight into Gires path.

She had not, but the result was the same. Gire kicked the ball into the air, the rebound so powerful that Inkar lost track of it for a second. Gire stood, stared past the players who were turning, coughed in the dust, and then walked off the pitch.

The soccer ball flew through the air in a powerful arc, curving, losing momentum, but zooming across the pitch. Every players head rose and the goalkeeper on the other end stopped flirting with the opposing player. He swore, looked up and jumpedtoo late.

The ball hit the top right corner of the goal and went in. The audience didnt cheer; they didnt realize what had happened, many of them, until the dust cleared. When they did shout, Gire was already hurrying towards Inkar.

There. I scored! Let me see the iPhone!

She hurried Inkar off. The young woman looked at Gire.

Oh. So that was why. It justwasnt fun.

Have you played soccer before?

Tkrn gaped at Gire as she ushered them back to the Ekhtouch camp where she could stare at the device. Gire gave the [Guardsman] a frown.

No.

You scored, though!

Yes. Its just kicking a ball into a space. Its easI mean, Im not interested. And Im too big to play other games. Tag or hide-and-seek

She looked wistful and sad.

Well, Ive had more fun at the Meeting of Tribes.

Ah. Ah.

Inkar saw Tkrn flicking his eyes back to the pitch where Gnolls still stared after her as another Ekhtouch Gnoll took Gires place. He looked at Gire.

I guess hide and seek is hard for other reasons, but I can see why tag and soccer are no fun.

Mhm. They never find me if I hide.

Tkrns mouth worked. He looked up at Gire and at Inkar. The young woman was interested.

Are there any games you do like, Gire?

Nope, we run back to the tribe and play dumb. Apparently the older ones dangerous. So if we sense somethings off, just smile, make excuses, and

Damn, theyre coming here.

Wanderer whispered. He checked himself and Mrsha saw him look at his staff. She froze.

Wanderer had killed the Gnolls coming after her. These were innocent [Hunters]! She shook her head. Wanderer pointed. If they find us, theyll kill us.

No! She shook her head. He growled.

Last resort. Ill try something else first. Hold onIm not sure if He closed his eyes, and frowned. Mrsha didnt know what Skill he was using, but it wasnt immediately apparent.

The [Hunters] were closing in. They couldnt smell the dye, but they were picking up some scent of the two. They closed in, growing silent, and Wanderers eyes were shut. Mrsha was tensed. She didnt want more Gnolls to die! What was he doing? Could he defeat them without hurting them? Even if he did, the tribe would know. What could they do? Maybe she could use her magic? She reached for her wand.

Then, it happened. Mrsha heard a braying call in the distance, then a flurry of curses not a hundred feet distant. She peeked over the hilltop and saw the [Hunters] whirling.

They had been heading straight for them! Yet suddenly they were pointing, moving away. She heard them shouting.

Dead gods and fur lice! The Corusdeer herd! That bucks coming right after us! I thought we distracted it!

Dont talk, move! Theyll char us to bits, go, go!

Suddenly, the Gnolls were moving! They were running, debating dropping the two deer theyd killed as the angry Corusdeer herd sought vengeance for the [Hunters] attack. They fled, climbing higher where the Corusdeer couldnt follow.

Distracted. Mrsha stared. Thatthat couldnt be a coincidence! It was beyond any credibility.

Nor was it a Skill. Wanderer had opened his eyes and he looked relieved.

Well move while theyre distracted. Ill use a stealth-Skill. Ill carry you.

He gestured. Mrsha looked at him, then back towards the [Hunters]. She put it together in one moment.

He had used his power? Wanderer saw her look. At his fur. He nodded slowly, meeting her eyes.

I told you we had power. This is it.

Mrsha looked at him. Then her little face fell. Her eyes turned bleak and guilty.

Doom.

A paw touched her shoulder. Wanderer shook his head, as if he could read her thoughts.

Not doom. Luck.

Mrsha blinked. Thenhe scooped her up and they ran. Her eyes were round. She looked back.

Luck? Luck? What were they?

Rabbits?

-

Mrshas pursuers were far distant, even the ones who had started first.

An entire day of marchingor in Octavias case, riding along the wagon, brought them nearly past the Bloodfields in one go.

Dismayingly slow compared to that strange white Gnoll, Snapjaw reported. She landed, looking frustrated as Icecube gulped down a bucket of water from a bag of holding.

It still awed Octavia, and probably a lot of their companions, that a Frost Wyvern was flying in their company. City Runner, [Alchemist], and Frost Wyvern. One of these things did not fit in.

The difference in levels and abilities also became more apparent as Snapjaw leaned over to talk with the Hobs and Bird. Sergeant Gna listened in, as did Fierre; the rest stretched or took the moment to break and tend to the horses.

Stupid Gnoll tracks. Hard to follow. Looks like every fifty feetthen less. Gets tired, but too fast. Like fast-fast death runners.

She indicated the road ahead, then pointed at Fals and Garia. They looked up.

Even Hawk takes a week to get from Liscor to Pallass! How is one Gnoll better?

Fierre frowned, checking her burnt skin despite her layers of protection.

My guess is hes not. Movement Skills, stamina potions explain half of it, but remember hes got a road. Hawk used to make this run without this new road, and his was a benchmark for the Runners Guild.

Oh, he was that good?

Octavia saw Sergeant Gna raise her brows, unaware that Liscors Courier was the hero of Runners everywhere. Fierre shook her head.

Benchmark. He wassort of average. Its not like the fastest he can do.

Oh.

Fals frowned and looked at Snapjaw.

ErMiss Goblin.

Snapjaws head rotated about. So did Badarrows. Snapjaw pointed at her chest, looking delighted.

Me?

Yes?

Fals looked nervous and Garia whispered in his ear.

Thats Snapjaw.

Oh. Sorry.

Flustered, Fals looked at Snapjaw and then slightly away. He wasnervous. Octavia forgot how non-Inn guests were so afraid of Goblins still.

I was just saying that if we can see the tracks, we might be able to tell what kind of movement Skill it is. It sounds like hes propelling himself forwards, not [Double Step] or anything else. Thats a Skill that moves faster on flat ground, maybe.

Interesting.

The Runners knowledge of movement Skills exceeded even Fierres own. Snapjaw chortled.

I can show.

Lead the way, Snapjaw.

No. Miss Goblin. I like that. Call me Miss Goblin. Soundsperson-like. Very nice.

She slapped Badarrow on the shoulder. He grunted.

The little interplay was interesting more in how it disclosed the clear differences between this band. And while Mrsha was the common cause, there was no Erin as of yet to keep them together, just the memory of her.

Sergeant Gna stared at Snapjaw with ill-disguised hostility. Badarrow glanced at her, and she looked away. Salkis just stared at the Frost Wyvern.

Awesome.

They kept moving, but it became clear they would not fully clear the Blood Fields in one night. Even going as far as they had was amazing and due to Birds new Skill. As they made camp, Octavia stretched.

How are we sleeping? Tents? I have one or something

Ill sleep under the wagon. Thats how my family travelled. Unless there are bugs or its muddy, its not bad and it saves time.

Fierre offered. Fals and Garia looked surprised.

Ive never done that in my life. We just get out a bedrollor the ground if its softand lie down. Like them, see?

The Goblins were just tossing their things down and arranging them next to their sleeping space around the beginnings of a fire. Ulvama had created one with astonishing ease. She just dropped firewood out of a bag of holding, kicked it together, and pointed and it burst into flame.

Civilians.

Sergeant Gna looked scandalized. She stared at the haphazard camp and then turned. First to Bird, then away to Numbtongue or Snapjaw, who was petting Icecube, and then to Fierre as the best, most reasonable leader.

This cant be your camp! Where are the sentries? Fortifications?

Fierre bit her lip.

UmBird? Numbtongue?

Goblins will watch out.

Numbtongue called back. Indeed, the Goblins had already established a sentry-order by poking each other and Badarrow had first watch. The Goblin stopped as everyone turned to stare at him. He was climbing onto a rock where hed sit with bow in hand. He raised his eyes at Gna.

But thatswell, thats something. Yet you dont have a latrine, or organization. You should use the wagons as cover, and have some kind of basic defensive area set up. I suggest moving to a cave or

The Gnoll hedged, unwilling to give the Goblins credit. She turned and stopped.

The Antinium looked up from digging a trench in the ground. Workers, Soldiersall save for two.

Bird was sitting on the ground, kicking his legs and watching, apparently not at all pressed to help out. Next to him, Pivr, the strange Antinium on all fours with wings was giving orders.

Sergeant Gna and Pivr locked gazes. The Gnoll instantly turned away.

What is that thing?

I am the Flying Antiniums Prognugator. Also Revalantor. Pivr. My job is to keep Bird safe. I have already established Antinium safety protocols. Observe.

The Flying Antinium rubbed his palps together as one antennae flicked towards the Workers. Octavia realized they werent just making a trench; they were digging into the ground and planning on resting there.

Perfect camouflage and protection. If the camp is attacked, we shall sacrifice the meat-things and tunnel up to assail our opponents or retreat.

The meat-things did not appreciate that, yet it was clear each group had their area covered. There was just no overall leadership.

The others looked at each other, unsure if this was fine to let lie. Fierre went over to the wagon, Gna stomped off to find a rock to lie behinduntil Bird stood up.

Pivr. Redirect some Workers to place dirt in front of the wagon. It will hide it and provide natural cover. Badarrow should also move closer; we will create a hill he can watch from, with a bit of cover. Strategy!

Gna blinked and turned back. Pivr looked uncertain, but some of the Free Antinium instantly moved to obey. Badarrow, whod just finished getting settled, grumpily stood up, but when he heard Bird, he tilted his head and nodded.

Thatsalmost good. But were still open to attack from every other angle. They could come over the hills.

Gna muttered, not looking at Bird. The Worker stared at her. He gestured around. They were in a natural bowl with one opening, that Snapjaw had pointed out.

This is a naturally defensible area. As to attacks from other anglesUlvama. You will use a [Shaman]s mark to ward the other directions.

Ulvama looked up. She pointed at her chest.

Me? No. Im tired.

Bird stared at her.

But I have given the order.

Numbtongue grunted. He nudged Ulvama with an elbow. She looked at him, at Bird, and blew out her cheeks.

Fine.

Grumpily, she went up the hill to do what Bird had said. This time Sergeant Gna looked around.

Well, wellits adequate.

It is a simple and efficient plan. You can find no flaws in it. Because I am smart.

Bird lifted all four arms. Sergeant Gna refused to answer. Inside his space, Niers Astoragon chuckled to himself.

Bird really is smart as, well, Olesm! I had no idea!

Octavia remarked to Numbtongue. He nodded slowly, but didnt seem surprised.

Bird is Bird. Maybe Klbkch taught him.

Sergeant Gnas ears perked up. Salkis rubbed her claws together.

I dont know who any of those are. You mean Klbkch the Slayer? Thats Bird the [Hunter], right? He slaughtered Wyverns at Pallass. Hes also a [General]?

She gestured at Bird, impressed and wary. Octavia and Numbtongue chuckled at the assessment, but they realized Salkis really didnt know him at all. For answer, Octavia gave her the most charitable answer.

Miss Salkis, Bird is uhBird. Hes a bit odd, but hes good at whatever he does.

I can see that. Uhshould I watch out for them in my sleep? You know? Goblins. Or the Antinium?

Salkis jerked a claw at the Goblins. One of the Cave Goblins looked astounded and flipped a finger at her. The Antinium also heard.

We are not given orders to kill you at this point. Your safety is assured unless we are attacked. Pivr answered. Then he paused.

Well, the Flying Antinium promise this. Where is Xeu? The Silent Antinium may be seeking additional targets.

We. Are not.

Someone spoke right next to Gna as she was setting up her bedroll. She yelped, and rolled away with a short sword in her paw, and stared as the landscape shifted.

Xeu, the Silent Antinium slunk past Gna, who backed up. Her scythe-arms rubbed with a gentle metallic sound, but she had been silent, invisible up till now.

Dead fucking gods!

Fals shouted. Even the Goblins started; even some of the Antinium. Everyone had almost forgotten Xeu had been part of the first group.

There you are, Prognugator Xeu. Where have you been?

Scouting. Three minor threats eliminated. Proximity to danger-zone Bloodfields. Resting now. Does Revalantor Bird have further orders?

Xeu rested, her body already beginning to chameleon itself into invisibility. Octavia edged closer to Numbtongue.

I forgot she was with us!

He nodded, but Snapjaw was already relaxed and grinning.

Strong allies, eh? As good as Poisonbite at hiding! Better! Also, Drake, we dont have bad sex. Thats Mountain City Goblins.

She pointed at Ulvama. The [Shaman] froze as she was coming down the hill. Snapjaw and Ulvama locked gazes and the air grew frosty. Badarrow nudged Snapjaw.

Stop.

Interesting. Niers, Gna, Fierrewell, practically everyone noticed the rift between Goblins at that. Fierre rested her chin on her hands.

If even the Goblins arent unitedand the Antinium too?

She glanced at the two foreign Antinium. Prognugators she understood, at least the leadership term. She was itching to look into Revalantors and maybe sell data, but she wasnt at work.

Were all here together. Lets just relax, okay?

Garia tried to play Erin, smiling around and booming. The farm-girl turned City Runner was already rummaging in her bag of holding.

I bet were all hungry. Ive got lots of food for the road. Who wants to cook, or are we doing it separately?

Another pause. Octavia looked around. The Goblins shrugged. It was Gna who muttered.

I suppose we can pool rations. All Ive got is travel stuff. Dry. If anyone wants to cookIve got [Survival Veteran]. It uh, lets me cook at a level a bit below [Basic Cooking].

A level a bit belowheads immediately turned to Garia. She shrugged.

I can cook too. Fals, you have [Basic Cooking], yeah?

Yup. Anyone got that beat?

No hands immediately rose. Fierre knew how to cookmostly blood dishes. Snapjaw had decent abilities, and Numbtongue could call on Pyrite, but only for a minute. Octavia pursed her lips.

I could help. Im good at recipes.

Of course the [Alchemist] was. Fals rubbed his hands together, then finally noticed the person waving his hand indignantly.

Oh. Uhare you better?

The Cave Goblin glaring at him finally got the attention of the others. It had been waving its hand non-stop, but no one had noticed. Everyone turned to look at the Goblin.

Lets let the Human cook.

Gna muttered sotto voce. However, Numbtongue was intrigued. He glanced at Badarrow.

Huh. I dont know that Cave Goblin. Which one of us did he learn from?

He. That was more information than the others knew. Cave Goblin? Badarrow shrugged. He pointed.

You

Then he lapsed into the Goblins tongue. The Cave Goblin replied, almost indignantly, and smacked his chest and then his lips. He pointed to the air above his head, and then shrugged.

What was that?

Salkis laughed, but Octavia had some inkling. The Goblin had said about three words and done that ridiculous pantomime. Yet Numbtongue answered evenly.

He said he was a Cave Goblin who learned from Rabbiteater. Which means he knows cooking. Not as good as Pebblesnatch, but he has [Basic Cooking] and two more cooking Skills. Hell help or do cooking if we let him.

The others stared at Numbtongue. In a bit of surprise orincredulity.

Wait a second, he didnt say all that just now, Numbtongue. Youre putting words in his mouth. Garia protested. Numbtongue shook his head.

He did. Lots of words. Also, not he. His name is Rasktooth.

The others turned to look at the Goblin. Gna frowned mightily.

Odd name. Whys that?

For answer, the Cave Goblin laughed and fished something out of his tunic. He had armor on, and underneath the cloth itselfhe pulled out a necklace with one long canine fang.

A Raskghars tooth. A trophy from dead oppressors. He bared his teeth.

I take.

Gna blinked at him. So did Fals.

Ill uhId welcome the help. If we want to combine Skills, maybe?

He meant to make sure everything was going according to normal rules of edibility, but Rasktooth was already investigating the small mountain of vegetables and prepared goods Garia had pulled out. In the end he shrugged and just grabbed a lot of dried noodles.

Big pot. Big fry. Big eat. Slice, slice. Big taste paste.

He communicated well. Boil the noodles, fry up meat and vegetablesslice those. Big taste paste referred to a pot of seasoning. Fals squatted there, warily, but getting into it.

A stir-up? That sounds good for so many. Great! Er, how do you want to

Rasktooth was slapping vegetables on a cutting board as he chattered to another Cave Goblin, who begrudgingly filled a pot with water and began to hang it over the fire. He gave Fals a look.

Im not an idiot. Stop getting in my way.

The City Runner hesitatedthen stopped asking questions.

As the food began, Pivr watched. He turned to Bird

We cannot ingest gluten. Revalantor Bird, have we alternative food sources? If not, I have secured ample provisions.

Bird looked up; hed missed the food talk in whispering to a little bag for anything else he needed to know. Belatedly, he saw the noodles.

Oh no. I should shoot some birds.

No need. Here. Antinium! Sustenance is prepared.

Pivr dug in his bag of holding. The Antinium gathered around and saw him disgorge a huge, ample portion of nutrient

Slop. Sergeant Gna instantly clapped a paw over her nose. Fierres own nose wrinkled and Salkis gagged.

What in the name of the walls is that?

She pointed and an orange and brownno, there was green. It was mold. But it was probably edible mold and, all things given, the most appetizing part of the nutrient paste that Antinium produced.

Efficient food. Storeable. Compact. No fire or preparation needed.

Pivr extolled the benefits of Antinium food. The Free Antinium looked at each other. They looked at the fire, and Fals and Rasktooth, staring in horror at the abomination of cuisine.

They edged towards the fire. Theyd be happy with incontinent stomachs.

We are not eating that, Pivr.

Y-yeah. We can make non-noodle food! Anything! Really. Justput that away, please?

Fals waved at Pivr. The Antinium, disgruntled, kicked the food into his bag of holding. The dirt would not interfere with the taste or quality of the food either. Xeu rubbed her scythes together.

Alternative to noodles required?

Yes. I will shoot a bird. Or bat. Or many.

Bird tilted his head up at the sky. Xeu shook her body, having to scuttle left and right to perform the action.

Alternative food source. I have.

Really? Well then, I will eat it.

Bird looked up. Niers frowned, poking his head out of the bag. The others watched as Xeu scuttled off. Fierre, who was watching as the Antinium formed a wall between the wagon and road, frowned.

Wait a second. Where is she going?

Xeu scuttled right past her, vanishing into the land beyond. But she was headed towards the roadpast the roadtowards the distant red earth. The area far, far out of range for even the spores or deadly tricks of

The Bloodfields. Xeu, wait!

Octavia screamed, but it was too late. Xeu was gone. Half the party rose to their feet. Ulvama swore as Goblins, Humans, Vampire, Gnoll, and more raced after Xeu. She took five steps forwards, looked back, and then caught herself.

What am I doing?

Ulvama went to sit back down. She wasnt going anywhere near that place.

Two Humans raced after Xeu. The Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings. Normen and the other man had also been forgotten, uncomfortable with everyone here. Now, they charged forwards, but were drawn up by a shout.

No, you idiots! Youre not wilderness fighters! Fall back!

They slowed. Normen glanced over his shoulder. The voice was right. They were used to street fights; neither had ever seen the Bloodfields. Who had said? Numbtongue raced past them, sword drawn. Normen moved to follow, but the Goblin had halted.

Xeu! Stop!

Numbtongue bellowed. Yet he couldnt see the Silent Antinium. Everyone halted on the road, staring into the darkness. They saw the strange, alien fauna beyond.

Bloodfields. The deathly sentry plants which impaled the ground, the bulbous plants holding insects within, cutting grassa thousand things ready to slaughter you. Everyone remembered the Crelersbut even without them, the Bloodfields were dangerous.

Xeu though, was nowhere to be seen. Bird whirled to Pivr.

Where is she?

Pivr shrugged his wings.

I do not know. Xeu is Silent Antinium. Her Queen would know.

You are unhelpful, Pivr.

Bird twisted back, staring, but even his eyes couldnt spot her amid the twilight. Fierre sniffed the breeze.

Im too far away to pick her out. Anyone else have better eyes? A Skill?

Badarrow was squinting. Gna tried to pick up Xeus scent, but she had been odorless and Gna hadnt detected her even when she was right next to the Antinium! The first sign of Xeu was when the Bloodfields abruptly moved. There was a flashand one of the bulbous pods went pop. Everyone recoiled and heard distant thrumming.

Look! There!

Garia pointed in horror. Normen and the other Brother stared in shock as insects exploded out of one of the pods. They whirled around, having been disgorged from the trap-plant theyd infested bywhat?

Xeu! The Silent Antinium became visible in a rending whirlwind of her scythe-arms. The little insects covered her, biting, trying to eat through her armor, but unlike flesh-beings, she was the superior insect.

Dead gods, shes slaughtering them!

Sure enough, the swarm covered Xeu, and then fled. She scuttled around, the bag of holding attached to one limb, and then trotted back. Everyone stared as she appeared, covered in insect blood and bits, but unharmed.

Food secured.

She handed Fals a bag full of diced insects. He nearly dropped it. Rasktooth smacked his lips.

Good extra. Make more fries.

The others looked at him in horror. But the Antinium were all nodding. Good provisions. The bugs looked tasty.

-

I am not eating from that pan again. Did you make that before this plate? Or after?

Sergeant Gna nearly threw down her plate of stir-fry when she saw the Antiniums version. It was roughly the same. Crispy meat, vegetables, all glazed with a sauce to keep it togetherRasktooth also had [Natural Seasonings]. The only difference was that instead of chewy, flat noodles, theirs were fried insects.

Garia turned pale as the plate was handed to Bird. Fals hurried to reassure the others, looking queasy.

I made it all before that. Thatsare you really going to eat that?

Bird looked up from stuffing his face. The Free Antinium were accepting plates as Rasktooth and another Cave Goblin handed them out with every sign of enjoyment.

Its bugs. I knew they were insect-people butIm going to be sick.

Oh, stop being such a baby.

Fierre snapped at last, unable to put up with the Sergeants constant complaining. Gna twisted.

Excuse me, Miss?

Its just bugs! Youre not eating them! Chickens eat bugs all the time. We eat chickens. Bugs are in grainhave you never seen a grasshopper leg in some wheat? I bet you eat at least one per year!

Fierre was not impressed by the bugs; she was a farm girl. Garia looked a bit queasy, but nodded.

Rather, it was the city-folk, Gna included, who looked pale. Normen muttered into his plate as he reached for a stiff drink instead of water.

No offense to the Antinium. Fine gents I hear, Miss. But thats not something Ive ever seen. Never heard of regular folk eating bugs, myself.

Nor me.

Salkis and the two Brothers exchanged looks. All the Goblins tittered. They were amused. The city-folk glanced at them.

Not ever eaten bugs? Fat Humans, fat Drakes and Gnolls. Never been hungry! Rasktooth, give us plate of bugs! Non-Goblins eat the rest.

Snapjaw waved, a challenge in her eyes. She offered the plate back for the noodle-portion and the other Goblins gave up theirs too, grinning. All but Badarrow, who kicked Snapjaw when she poked him.

I hate bugs.

Ulvama refused too, but the Goblins teasing still clearly rankled the others. Gnas head turned for supportand found surprisingly little.

The two Brothers were with her, and Fals. Garia and Fierre didnt object. However, Octavia didnt blink twice at bugs.

I use em all the time in my alchemy. Theyre in potions too. AlsoCeria eats them, you know. All the time. Even worms. Say, can I get any parts left over? Ive never experimented with Bloodfields bugs

Rasktooth indicated a bowl of bits, in good humor. Octavia went over, and Numbtongue accepted a plate of bug-fry with resignation. But the dour [Bard] had a bit of his own humor in his eyes as he deliberately took a big forkful and crunched on a bite.

Pretty good. Sour.

Needs more good sauce.

Rasktooth added more sauce. The thing waswhich none of the Goblins saidthe thing was, bugs still tasted a bit worse than noodles unless your palate was aimed around them. Most bugs were bitter or sour, because they didnt want to be eaten. Cows were apparently suicidal because they tasted good.

Even so, they grinned as they crunched, supplementing satisfaction for taste. The others stareduntil Garia slapped her legs.

Wellwell, why not? Give me a forkful, Numbtongue!

She rose to her feet, a challenge in her eyes. The others stared as she walked over. Numbtongue was merciful; he gave her a shell-portion, which crunched, but tasted mostly of the rest of the plate. Garias eyes watered, but she crunched it down, then lifted an arm up.

Its notbad! Really, Fals!

He looked horrified, but someone else lifted a claw.

Why not? Ive had raw meat. Ill try one.

Salkis, grinning again like it was an adventure, actually took a raw bug and after a moment of staring at it, bit off the head. She chewed, swallowed fast, but then tossed it down.

Hah!

Oh, so its a contest, is it? I can eat bugs. Its happened in Liscors army. Give me that. Ill just

Gna grabbed a centipede-thing, took a bite, gagged, and nearly threw up. Fals stared at her, lowered the fork hed taken to try a bite, and refused.

Fierre had a bite too, mostly to see if insect-blood sated her thirst. It didntor there wasnt enough of it to help. The others chuckled or laughed, and the Antinium quietly noshed, watching the others trying their food.

I am updating the Blood Fields as possible food source. It is not that dangerous, it seems, if food is abundant.

Pivr opined to Xeu and Bird. The Silent Antinium rubbed her scythes together.

Dangerous. Stalk-plants impale any Antinium. Can sense me.

How did you survive, Xeu?

I did not get close.

So Antinium eat bugs and they come in all forms. Goblins eat bugs, and half-Elves apparently. Strange. No one mentioned that. Its cannibalismsort of. And theyre all good in a fight?

Salkis washed down the buggy bite with a drink. She was still getting her bearings. The others looked at the newcomer. All assumed that someone else knew her. Numbtongue shrugged. He counted.

That one is good at fighting. Bird is. I, Badarrow, Snapjaw, and that one are best at fighting. Redfangs and [Chieftains]. Ulvama too, maybe. Garia can punch. You have enchanted daggers. Brothers are good. Sonine good fighters.

He counted, and pointed at Xeu, much to Pivrs dismay. The others stirred as Numbtongue counted them off.

I know those two are good. Men with hats.

Brothers, Miss. Im Normen, and this is Alcaz. At your service. Pleasure to be with you on this missionheard you helped us out at the inn.

Normen tipped his hat. So did Alcaz, the other man. A spluttering sound came from Salkis left.

Wait a second! You forgot me!

Sergeant Gna. Pivr raised a claw.

And me. I am a Revalantor of

Were not bad fighters, Numbtongue. Ive held my own in a fair number of scraps!

Fals protested as well. Fierre also nodded.

I survived the Archmage of Izrils mansion with Ryoka!

Numbtongue shrugged, unmoved by all but that last. He looked towards his bedroll and yawned.

I said good fighters. Most can fight. Lets sleep. We move tomorrow.

He went to lie down. Someone threw a spoon at him.

Sergeant Gna. She was on her feet, glowering, eyes flashing.

Ive had enough of this, Goblin. I may not like coming along. I may have been ordered to come along, but I am a [Sergeant] in Liscors 4th Company. When we get into a scrap, youd better listen to me because I

Numbtongue tossed the spoon back. He spoke over Pivr, who was also trying to state his credentials.

I am a Level 35 [Bard].

Gna choked on her tongue. Pivr fell silent. Xeu stared. Niers peeked out of his bag, grinning, and took another bite of his snack. He was damned if hed live on bugs; hed had a cookie hed been eating all day. One cookie. Itd probably last him the next day too. Hed had a single noodle for dinner. Not bad eating.

Gna looked at Numbtongue, lost for words. Her paw twitched towards her side, instinctively. Salkis sat up and stared at Numbtongue, eyes glittering. The [Bard] looked around.

Who else is over Level 30? Just raise your hands.

He stared about. Fierre held her breath.

Level 30? It was rare to find anyone of Numbtongues level just hanging about. He could be a Gold-rank with that! Erin was even more exceptional. Of course, she was a Vampire, but she understood why he said what he did. There was no way

Badarrow raised his hand, and Bird raised two of his, one for him, one for Niers. Then he lowered one hand because he remembered he was a [Liar]. Snapjaw raised a hand, and so did Ulvama.

Salkis was the last, and her eyes lit up as all gazes fell on her. Gna gaped.

Goblins with levels. The two Brothers touched their hats, and Normen muttered.

Crimshaw shouldve been here.

Octavia stared at the Goblins. One of them, a Redfang, folded her arms, but looked delighted at the representation. Numbtongue counted.

Six. Good fighters.

He rolled over.

Go to sleep.

Goblin dominance established, the others fell silent. Gna rolled over behind her rock, muttering, but subdued. The Antinium tucked themselves into their holes. Fierre rolled under a wagon and the Goblins fell asleep almost at once. They rested like that, and Octavia, whod elected to sleep on top of the wagon, unsure why everyone wasnt fighting for this space, reflected it wasnt the worst first day.

There was tension, but theyd tried bugs, and it might work out.

Maybe.

-

The next day, the band of mostly not-Brothers except for the two who were, awoke. They packed up and struck camp earlyOctavia snoozed through everything until they got moving. So did Salkis, and she just climbed into the wagon, muttering curses; she wasnt used to rising like that either.

Even so, they were well underway when a commotion happened. The others slowed as Pivr came striding up the lines to Bird, whod decided hed try riding a horse for fun. He glided forwards, hopping and flapping his wings to arrest his fall.

Bird! Bird! This is an unprecedented event!

What?

Bird turned in his saddle. Pivr pointed back at Xeu, who was menacing a terrified worker with her scythes as the other Antinium gathered around.

Again, the column halted. Goblins turned, and even Snapjaw flew back when she saw what was happening. Gna tensed, unsure what new drama was occurring.

And here it was. Octavia saw one of the Workers whod volunteered to come after Mrsha trembling, holding its pack and a simple spear and buckler. It carried a bow, but like the Goblins, the Antinium aside from Bird, Xeu, and Pivr were faceless.

Much like the Goblins, really. If you looked at the group, they were made up of the important, the over Level 30s, and those like Fierre, who knew they were special.

On this great trip across Izril, some might live and some might die. The odds were it was the ones you didnt know, the lowest-leveled ones whod die. That was why Salkis grinned. That was why Normen and Alcaz said little. Some people had different expectations.

Most of all for the nameless Goblins and Antinium, some of whom couldnt even claim to be over Level 10. If you wanted to name the group

It was Numbtongue, bearing the ghosts of Reiss, Pyrite, and Shorthilt. Ulvama, Badarrow, Snapjaw, Salkis, Octavia, Garia, Fals, Fierre, Gna, Bird, Pivr, Xeu, Normen, Alcaz, Icecubeand that was about it. Then came the Goblins. Then the Antinium as a whole.

There was Niers unseen, and if someone remembered her, a bee named Apista. The rest were the masses.

Or so you thought. The Worker was trembling as Pivr complained, loudly, to Bird.

It is unsanctioned! It is unprecedented! Did you authorize this, Revalantor Bird?

Yes.

Pivr hesitated. Bird stared at him. Pivr fanned his wings.

Do you even know what it is I am referring to?

I authorized it. So you cannot complain, Pivr.

You did not. That is a lie, Bird. Name the issue.

Then I will authorize it when I find out, and authorize it now but in the past so my authority was always there.

Pivrs mandibles clacked open and closed. Eventually, he turned around.

That Worker! It has gained a new class!

He pointed at said trembling Worker, who had a curious decoration on his chest. He was a Painted Worker, and he had chosen a strange, nonsensical symbol to represent himself. One he had gained from his visit to the inn. It was a sign that Kevin had been teaching Mrsha during math class, a strange inverted loop, combined with the Workers favorite food.

A pear, in the center of the sign for infinity.

Thus, he was Infinitypear. Bird tilted his head.

What has Infinitypear gained?

Infinity what?

Pivr fanned his wings angrily.

He is an [Adventurer]!

The column stopped. They all looked at Infinitypear. An[Adventurer]?

You dont mean Adventurer as in Bronze-rank Adventurer. You mean

The Worker looked at Octavia, then away. The [Alchemist] realizedhed been listening to her.

Were on an adventure. And he believed it. Of course he did. This was an adventure for a Worker. A grand adventure.

We may die. We may never come back. Yetas Bird began to chuckle, then laugh, a little man in his pocket laughed too. The Goblins grinned.

We may die. Or we may rise. The band was this: It was Numbtongue, bearing the ghosts of Reiss, Pyrite, and Shorthilt. Ulvama, Badarrow, Snapjaw, Salkis, Octavia, Garia, Fals, Fierre, Gna, Bird, Pivr, Xeu, Normen, Alcaz, Icecube, Niers, Apista.

And the Goblin named Rasktooth. The [Adventurer] Antinium named Infinitypear.

[Adventurer Class Obtained!]

[Adventurer Level 3!]

[Skill Find Roads Less Travelled obtained!]

[Skill Weapon Proficiency: Spear obtained!]

[Skill Spirit of the Wild (Enhancement) obtained!]

Authors Note: I feel as though Ive kicked a white Gnoll. Or an entire tribe of them.

If there was ever a cursed chapterits this edited one. Everything gets in the way. Case in point? Windows Update decided to delete core system files as I was just about to start working on the chapter.

14 hours later, I fixed it. My computer is a mess. All my files are there; nothings in the right place. Windows in its infinite wisdom deleted my Office files and replaced it with Microsoft 365, the most disgusting program Ive ever seen.

Im now using a new word programthat has none of my dictionary terms and keeps formatting my dialogue properly by cramming it onto the same line.

I hate it all. I have written easier chapters while sick, injured, and with less than 4 hours of sleep.

Anyways, I was never in danger of losing key files; most everything is backed up including notes. Im not a complete fool, but while I could have used a backup laptop or something, my computer is my setup and organization. Its likeI could work from another room instead of my office, but Im working in another room while watching my office burn down.

The point is the edited chapter is delayed. Blame Microsoft. I do. This chapter is probably shorter since I lost an entire day to technical issues. Bleh. Someone uncurse me.

The Wandering Inn One Piece homage by Tnoz!

Yelroan and Let Me Inn by /Brack_Giraffe

Apista by Auspicious /auspiciousoctopi