Book 8: Chapter 43

Book 8: Chapter 43

There are but two laws in this world as they apply to all folks capable of levelling, be they winged or finned, small or large. There is law for those of low-level. And law for those who level higher than the rest.

The Book of Levels, Chapter 4. On the whole, Teresa Atwood found it curious. It was a mix of biblical-esque writings about morality, strength through suffering and perseverancethose who struggle will one day outlevel those who live in complacencyand a kind of, well, power-gamers handbook.

She was no expert, but telling a [Farmer] to try cultivating difficult crops in bad soil? Sounded like a good way to give yourself a hard time. Or to gain experience.

However, it was a mix of morality and tips, and thus parts simply read wrong to her. Like the opening to Chapter 4.

Its not fair.

She broke off reading, frowning at the passage. A steady, no, trying to be steady look was her only reply. Teresa didnt know if that was impatience or a desire to hear what she said.

She deferred to the latter, as it had been a chapter every day at best, despite neither having read this before.

I know its true. Ive seen Orthenon spar and he can do eight-versus-one. I dont think anyone in my worldmaybe if it was an actual fighter or soldier versus a bunch of idiots, maybe. But with weapons? I know everyone can break our worlds records, even if theyre only Level 40. But it just doesnt sit right.

She had actually done this, in the times between war and strife. And in the Kingdom of Reim, that was all the time. To test her theory, shed asked some of the King of Destructions vassals, from Mars and Orthenon to lesser vassals like Maresar, Venith, and so on, to perform some tests.

Teresa hadnt watched the Olympics and written down all the scores, but she knew things like the hundred meter dash. Of course, figuring out how far a meter was when no one thought in anything but feet was annoying

However, the results were clear even without precise measurements. Some people werent built to run, didnt enjoy it, and some people like Orthenon could zip across the battlefield, being all about attacks and maneuvering.

Mars, for instance, wore armor, and she could run forever, but she didnt sprint, only charged into the enemy at the head of a vanguard. Nevertheless, she could easily break ten seconds without Skills.

That was a Level 60+ [Vanguard], though, one of the greatest warriors of Chandrar. By contrast, the [Mages] were actually quickfor what Teresa expected of them. But even Ulyse, the highest-levelled among them, couldnt compare to [Warriors] half his level.

Teres missed Ulyse.

A single one of Flos vassals could scare an army. But the law applying to only a select few rankled Teres.

Her audience never replied. He sat, never moving, blinking a few times. Covered head to toe in bandages. Teresa looked at a living mummy, and the flash of green. However, even the flesh around his eyes had burned. He hadnt been able to open his eyes for days and the [Healers] had privately confessed they were terrified that the heat had melted his eyes from his sockets.

That they hadnt was because hed been drinking healing potions as he fought, and his level. Even so, and even now, the King of Destruction sat, bandages hiding horrific burns that did not want to heal.

Magical fire. The power of a great Djinni, the terrifying Drenir. Yes, hed been freed and laid waste to a Nerrhavian city. However, the battle had left the King of Destruction so wounded hed been levitated away. Now, without him to lead armies, Takhatres had abandoned Reim to hold Hellios. Orthenon and Mars were stuck in the north, and Maresar and Venith alone were holding off the biggest push of Nerrhavias Fallen yet.

Teres? She was keeping Flos company. She could have been fighting, but after he had woken up, he had said two words, though his throat was as burned as the rest of him.

FirstGnolls. Second? Teresas name.

Theyre all safe. Takhatres is sweeping Hellios, holding off the armies. The only problem is if Queen Calliope rebelsor her son.

Teres put aside the book after three more pages, when his eyes began to roll. The King of Destruction tried to nod, then froze.

Teres bit her lip. She didnt need to read his mind to see how much that hurt. His bandages needed to be changed regularly because his wounds seeped or bled, but that was so painful she couldnt watch. And no one dared try healing the burn wounds at this point. The risk of infection and thus murdering him in seconds via potion-enhanced disease was extreme.

So Teresa read to Flos. She reached for the newspaper next and Remi Canadas articles. Reims capital was under lockdown. They were preparing for a siege. She wished she knew whether Trey was safe. Or if relief would be coming. But it was this, speaking to Flos, practicing her sword drills alone, or speaking to Nawal.

Yet if Flos didnt speak, for once silenced by burns, forced to write if everand all he wrote were simple questions, like Gnolls, war, Trey, or Fetohepthe Blacksmith of Clan Tannousin said nothing by choice.

She stood by the anvil, swinging her hammer and making superlative blades of steel, until her hands were raw and bloody.

Two ghosts. The war was going poorly, and the one magical cure for Nawalperhapswho knew her, was lost to Wistram. The other, for Flos?

He was in no position to gainsay Fetohep at the moment, even if he could ride on the capital and demand one of the great treasures like a Potion of Regeneration to heal himself. Not with Khelts show of force. Rather, the opposite. Venith and Maresar were almost more worried about a single army from Khelt than five from Nerrhavias Fallen, and they were worried about both.

So, Teresa did her best. Distract Flos Reimarch from his terrible pain. She held up the newspaper so he could read.

The Gnoll tribes are saying its Fissival that uh, planted this anti-magic crystal in the ground. Did you know they could do that?

Flos blinked twice for no. He looked at the paper, and Teresa read out the commentary and analysis by Chandrars most beloved [Journalist].

the allegation, among many conflicting narratives, in brief, can be summarized as this: the Walled Cities, or Fissival alone, conspired to nullify the Gnollish peoples arcane abilities, which differ from that of Shamanic magic, using said crystals. Whether they are scattered across Izril, and how far this plot reaches, or even the accuracy is not yet verifiable. However, the facts are these: a crystal was uncovered directly under the Meeting of Tribes. It correlated to a burst of arcane magic. More Gnolls have yet to manifest talents, but some have managed to cast arcane magic when they could not before. And finally, Fissival, the City of Magic, is known to have had a continent-wide teleportation network which ran on waystones such as these.

It was dry, well, newspaper-like, but that was clearly an attempt to be accurate and not shout the obvious, which was unverifiable as of yet. Flos Reimarch expressed his thoughts on the matter.

Fgtr.

You said it. No wonder the Gnolls left Izril. What do you think will happen?

Hmbth.

Teresa began to find some of the other newspapers from Izril. Some of them were spicy. The news was the talk of the world. The talk of the week. The talk ofwell. The century. Right up until the next big thing happened. Like Reim falling.

But the Gnolls werent going to forget. She wondered what the consequences would be.

-

Consequences? Im sure the tribes will be furious. It might be war and that would be disastrous, given that would be exactly what the Antinium want. Why would we add anything to that?

The question was so stupid that Grand Magus Eldavin didnt even deign to look at the speaker as he addressed Wistrams own Council of Mages.

Gnolls have historically been part of Wistram. Gnolls have been [Archmages]. Fissival alone, or some wider conspiracy, has engineered their exclusion from Wistram, and indeed the rift between the species and the academy now! Is Wistram Academy going to simply sit by, or censure this with words?

It would be neutral, Grand Magus.

A cautious voice from a [Mage] of the Hulltp faction, a tiny one, but which had a whole two seats on the Council of three hundred. The half-Elf looked at the Drake.

Neutral? Neutrality is not the same as inaction, young man. If we do nothing, or merely reply in words, we, by doing so, imply that there is little problem with this kind of action. That it is fine to erase the magical talents of generations. I am putting a vote to the Council to do more than censure. Down with the City of Magic! I suggest, to begin with, all Fissival [Mages] be banned from all but public spaces of the academy. Certainly from speaking with anyHumansamong us. We need not eject them yetthe guests at Wistram are token. More importantly, we will begin a magical boycott of all items from Fissivals academy by all magical institutions across the world. That would be todays items, but I suggest that we make the following announcements over the next few days

Eldavin said the words suggest and vote. However, he spoke with no such intentions in mind. The [Mages] listened as the Terras faction seats, newly acquired, and a majority, waited behind their leader. The other Archmages werent even present. What would be the point?

Cognita was gone. Who ruled Wistram?

Grand Magus Eldavin.

-

Of course it was horrific. The Gnolls of the tribe theyd joined were hopping mad. The news had just hit them, less than an hour after the Earth Elemental had uncovered the stone. They werent even at the tribe yet, but the [Hunters] were howling, throwing things, and uttering so many bad words that Bird was glad they hadnt found Mrsha yet.

Her trail was getting harder to follow. They now had to rely on guesswork, sightings of white Gnolls, so this detour wasnt actually a bad thing. It gave their scouts, like Snapjaw, the chance to use Icecube to search.

Bird had been staring at Fierres scrying orb, where Drassi had done the smart thing. Which was to kick Relz and Noass out of the booth and give a proper opinion piece of the entire event.

By bringing on a Councilmember Elirr of Liscor, and a Pallassian Gnoll [Camerawoman] to take over. It was smart. So smart that it might have been a certain [Cook]s suggestion in Drassis ear, as well as Remis, that made her do it.

At any rate, the composition was Drassis doing, and it also worked. Elirr was older, but had the perspective of a Gnoll who had been in the tribes. The Pallassian [Camerawoman] knew how the best interviews went, and took over a kind of interviewer/commentator role. Shed lived in Pallass all her life.

Not to say there wasnt shouting. But the best moments were like these, in silence, when you saw Elirrs paw trembling on a cup of tea.

Am I surprised, Miss Treisha? Surprised? Yes. Horribly, terribly. But it does not surprise me, no. That is the worst part. That is

He swallowed.

That is the worst part of all.

No one had a good thing to say about Drakes in this moment. From Magnolia Reinhart, to Rasea Zecrew, to Ailendamus, not one person had a good thing to say about this.

Well, Magnolia Reinhart did thoughtfully remark to Ressa one thing.

It might make our reluctant allies come to the table. That would be a silver lining in the stormcloud theyve summoned. And we must have some silver lining, Ressa, or Ill have to cut short this visit to find out what has happened toEldavinwith no gain and all loss.

Her hand tightened on the teacup. Ressa nodded slowly. She watched the ongoing coverage, as Elirr and Treisha, overburdened despite talking for nearly two hours, let another trio of Gnolls storm in.

You never considered offering the Gnolls land in the north?

Magnolia Reinharts gaze shifted. She looked at the young woman feverishly reading something in between trying to hold the conversation down and watching the scrying orb. Lyonette du Marquin touched the letters as if trying to pick them off the page. Theyd been having a tea party when the news struck.

Never once, Lyonette. Not in my wildest dreams of pursuing a peace with the Drakes.

Why not?

Lyonette glanced up, all vim and vigour and action. Magnolia had been hearing about some of the things she was getting up to. Calmly, the [Lady] regarded the [Princess]. Did she know who she was talking to and dancing with? Did her class attract them? That would put fact to the stories.

My dear Miss Marquinoh dont look so worried. No one can hear us, magically or otherwise. Do you think Id allow it?

Lyonette hesitated, frowning, but chose her words with the tact Calanferian [Princesses] were supposed to be known for. In Magnolias experience, it was not a given.

No offense to your security, Lady Reinhart, but we were nearly all assassinated in the open.

Magnolia Reinhart heard a snort and elbowed Ressas knee. Lyonette blinked as both older women smiled.

Miss Lyonette. What is the point of nearly being assassinated in public if no one sees? Rest assured, I dont take chances in private for no gain.

The [Princess] blinked. Magnolia glanced out the window and sighed.

There are a lot of them. But the quality?

Lyonettes head turned just in time to see a [Butler] politely shove a figure climbing up towards one of the windows of the mansion with a stick. A figure flashed past her. There was no sound, but Lyonette winced.

There was a reason even the Assassins Guild of Izril had only ever taken Magnolia Reinharts holdings or attacked her in ambushes, as opposed to clandestine, convenient operations. Figures carefully swapping out bags of sugar in deliveries to the house turned as someone tapped them on the shoulder and they saw a trio of maids, led by an angry Gnoll [Maid], standing with cleaning supplies.

Not that scary, but you got the point. Magnolia answered Lyonettes question as Reynold watched the figure run off, glad he didnt have to get a broom.

Gnolls are not the group sending forces north each year to slap hands with Human armies, Lyonette. Nor would the Walled Cities, ah, see a non-aggression pact between Humans and Gnolls any more favorably than between Antinium and Gnolls. Finally? Yes, I could probably arrange a huge patch of land to be given, or at least free access to the north. If I drank a Potion of Dunce, I would do just that.

Why? But of course, Lyonette was too intelligent to ask that. She thought about it and came to the conclusion in two sips of sweet tea.

Ah. Conflicts.

Exactly. The worst thing I could do for Human-Gnoll relations is to let them be our neighbors. Can you imagine the first time a [Lord] or [Lady] decides one of them has stolen something?

Magnolia sighed. You took matters one step at a time. Butshe had to admit, as she scowled at the commentary

Even my family wouldnt enact a scheme as ludicrously unpleasant as this.

It was hyperbole, because Ressa snorted again, but it just went to show that Magnolia Reinhart had more to learn.

Lyonette went to sip more tea, but it was hard. The [Princess] looked up from her cup. She tried to speak, coughed, and lifted her tea cup.

I fearwith great apologies, Lady Reinhart, I might request a different cup? Mine is rather too sweet for my liking.

Magnolia eyed Lyonette as Ressa, smirking, offered her a cup without Magnolias usual dose of sugar. She rolled her eyes. Fine, you were right. Shed add less sugar. Maybe.

Lyonette tried to wash the sugar dissolving the enamel of her teeth away with some of the rather fine tea. She looked at Magnolia, and the [Lady] murmured.

We do have much to talk about, Miss Marquin. Too many issues cropping up of late. Even one is a headache. The Titan of Baleros is apparently running around Izril with every [Bounty Hunter] in existence tearing apart Invrisil on the hunch he is there.

You know that for a fact, Lady Reinhart?

Magnolia sighed.

I do have my network still, Miss Lyonette. Diminished, but it seems intelligence is not the strong suit of those pursuing Niers Astoragon. If I were to start my search anywherebut it seems theyve checked Liscor. Drat the fellow. He ignores me, and doesnt even have the decency to conduct his affairs without causing a commotion.

She scowled, then her lips quirked.

Of course, that is hardly surprising given the Titan of Baleros character. What is surprisingI am not surprised by much, Lyonette. Not by much. If anything shocked me of lateit was that Tyrion Veltras proposed to anyone. Truly. I could accept the rest. But Tyrion Veltras, proposing to Ryoka Griffin no less?

The [Princess] face twisted. She hadnt expected Magnolia to bring that up, out of all the pressing and urgent events, but the [Lady] looked like she was slightly in shock, even now.

You heard about it?

I believe I actually swooned. Ressa, do you recall that?

The [Maid] considered the question.

If you mean by swooned, laughed so hard you actually cracked a rib, yes.

Both women traded glances. Magnolia began to chuckle so hard she had to put down her cup.

I am sorry, Miss Marquin. You have come to me with great need and urgency and believe me, I am looking for that young child. Butyou do know Miss Ryoka Griffin?

Yes

And I am sure you know of Tyrion Veltras and hisreputation?

Oh yes. Lyonette saw Magnolia lift a handkerchief and dab at her eyes.

On bended knee. Asking permission to court her.

A snortLyonette looked, but Ressa had turned her head. Magnolia laughed. Then she grew serious.

What a disaster. What riotous, unacceptable messes theyre making of my continent. I thought the worst they could do was start the war to end all wars or create weapons on par with Tier 7 spells. Instead, theyve got Tyrion Veltras making war on Ailendamus. Well, better than him writing love letters, eh, Ressa?

Please never say that again, Lady Reinhart.

Ressa shuddered. Lyonette saw her blanch, actually bend down, pick up a cookie, and pour herself a cup of tea. Completely ignoring decorum, she downed the entire teacup and cookie.

Do forgive Ressa. Terrible memories. Tyrion Veltras has always admired women of aparticular character. Even as a young man.

Particular

Lyonettes mouth worked. Magnolia Reinhart smiled as Ressa shook her head like she was trying to throw off a shades grasping hands. But then she lost her smile.

However, and I do regret bringing this up now, but I had no opportunity to speak to you beforeLyonette. Erin Solstices passing was a tragedy and I was deeply sorry to hear of it.

Lyonettes heart began to pound, painfully. She waited, but Magnolia Reinhart said nothing more. Her face was bleak. Bleak. Not uncaring. At the same time, however, she did not weep. She just lookedmildly sad. Lyonette found the words bursting out.

She isnt dead.

Lyonette knew she was being a poor guest. She couldnt help it, though. Her voice rose. Magnolia glanced at her.

Of course not, my dear. I do hope she can be revived, with this technique of ice. It is beyond curious, though. Such strange messages fromKhelt.

You know ab

The [Lady] glanced at Ressa. She didnt even bother responding to that.

Have either you or Erin Solstice met Fetohep of Khelt, Miss Marquin?

No.

He does commission from Solar Cycles. And yet. And yet. Is this all connected?

Magnolia Reinhart couldnt even begin to fathom it. Erin Solstice? Not surprising. Tragic. Heartfelt. She should have truly taken the girl in hand, or posted more of her people there, but the young woman had seemed fine on her own.

Careless. Yet

We cannot shape them. Only give them the chance to be all they might. A tyrants claw weighs down on all souls, yet the hand of kindness smothers as well.

Lyonette glanced up. She had never heard that, but it sounded like a quote. Magnolia nodded to herself, then glanced up.

Miss Marquin. Let us not play too many games. You are busy, no doubt, sequestering aid for your beloved little Mrsha

My daughter.

The [Lady]s eyebrows rose. She peered at Lyonette and for a second, the full weight of her aura hit the [Princess]. Not like someone swinging a hammer, but a pressing scrutiny. Lyonette began to fight it, but thenMagnolias eyebrows rose.

Your daughter. Indeed. Forgive me, Lyonette. I will help you. I have been, but navigating Drake lands is not easy for my people, what few of them there are. I can certainly tell you she made it out of that city long before the Gnolls got to her. And they are Plains Eye.

Lyonette inhaled, hard. Magnolia went on.

I will help you. But you will answer some questions for me, first.

Of course. Anything I can within reason. Is it the Healer of Tenbault that worries you that much? I

Lyonette had deep suspicions about just which Goblins might have kidnapped her, and why. Maybe Magnolia suspected it too, given how much she knew about Erins friends. But it seemed she was off. Magnolia turned, blankly.

Oh, her? She isquite capable of negotiating for her safety, and Im sure the others are looking for her and all that. No, that is not what worries me. Not at all. We are following her, arent we, Ressa?

Someones on the job.

The [Lady] waved the thought away without a second word. The [Princess] sat upright. What had Magnolia Reinhart so worried? If she wanted answers, she had summoned the right person to spill all.

Almost nothing was out of reason. If she wanted to get to Mrsha, when she found her, or if her brave little girl managed to tell her where she was, she would need the fastest vehicle in the world. A Pegasus, perhaps, or maybe a pink carriage. Magnolia Reinhart nodded. She appraised Lyonette, pursed her lips.

Why was she nervous?

LyonetteI would like you to recall meeting with a certaina certain person. Spare me no details or speculation. But tell me everything. Did a Grand Magus Eldavin seemoffto you when he visited your inn?

The [Princess] hesitated. She knew that name. But why, of all disasters and opportunities, did this make Ressa stop taunting her mistress, make Magnolias hand tremble on the cup like that? Was it a cunning feint? Or? She tried to think back to the enigmatic [Mage]. Magnolia listened.

Who had done it? Ryoka? Had he?

If there was one thing that worried her, it was not the Circle, or Tyrions addled mind, or events in Oteslia, even the Drakes actions. It was simply this.

What had happened to him? He, who had never taken sides for as long as she had ever known him? The weary legend who slumbered? Why now? Why like this, and so odd, missing all her hints? Talking about reshaping Wistram?

The [Princess] eyes flickered, trying to work out what Magnolias game was. In any other time, the [Lady] wouldnt even have hinted at the card being on the table. Now was not that time. She had to know.

What had they done to the Dragonlord of Flame?

-

It was true that even Regis Reinhart sneered at the mistake Fissival had madeif it was Fissival. Real genius was that it wasnt.

Either way, that it could ever be found out makes it a fools gambit.

Yes, no one with a single good word for what had gone down. No one at all. Except for the little man in Birds head.

Niers Astoragon, that was. He sat, listening to the outraged commentary, the shock, the fury, and told Bird it was fine.

In fact, listen to what they just said.

The Gnolls had exploded into fury as Drassi read out a breaking news bulletin. Bird was not sure why Niers laughed.

Fissival just announced that the city had no motives against Gnolls, and any conclusions drawn are incorrect. Also, that they may have destroyed ancient Drake property, and the Walled City wishes to investigate.

Is that what you expected?

The only thing Bird had expected all day was omelettes, and hed gotten boiled eggs instead. He shook his head.

No. It is silly, and I would know silly.

No, its not. I just bet you, that army from Fissival we passed? Its picking up the pace. The Drakes arent going to apologize. Why would they? Thats an admission of guilt. Theyre going to claim the Gnolls are making it all up.

Provoke them? Why?

The Titan laughed.

If you know youre getting into a fight, Bird, you might as well throw the first punch. And they have. I cant imagine many tribes are going to walk away from this. But the Drakes have the march on them in a huge way.

I do not understand. They did not turn off magic for [Shamans]. They have only made the Gnolls angry.

And killed generations of their magical talent in the arcane field. Put a huge rift between them and Wistramthats two hundred years of progress if what these Gnolls are saying is true. Maybe more. Think of it like this, Bird. You know that Great Shaman of the Goblin King during the Second Antinium War? He threw an army of your people into the sky by himself.

Yes. I wish I had been there.

Bird sighed sadly. Niers paused.

Well, that was one [Shaman]. Gnolls? Gnolls have had [Archmages] and great [Shamans]. Two spellcasters, across a single race.

Is that so impressive?

Stop tilting your head, Bird. Yes, it is. Most races have one or the other. Good [Mages]? Good [Shamans]both is rarer. Humans, for instance, tend to have one per civilization. Having a mix of them means you have more magic-users competing for less resources. More chances for truly high-level people to emerge. Even Fraerlings, my people, are behind in [Shaman]-magic. Dullahans are [Mages] without [Shamans]Centaurs have a bit of both, but aside from them, Humans, Gnolls, and Garudano other species has an equitable mix.

The Goblins, milling about, were oblivious, but might have protested being left out. To which the Titan would have replied they were a shamanic-leaning species, much like Gnolls, but without institutional opportunity, by and large, to benefit from arcane magic training. At which point they would have probably agreed.

Bird digested all of this, processed it, and came to a simple conclusion.

So Drakes have done a bad thing for a clever reason. They have still done a bad thing. It is not nice. I think.

In his hat, the Fraerling laughed. He laughed so hard he nearly knocked Birds hat sideways. To one of the Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings, it looked like Birds hat tipped itself at him. He cautiously returned it and then backed away.

Bird, Bird.

Niers. Niers. Yes?

Listen to me. Are the Drakes going to beg for the Gnolls forgiveness? Absolutely not. Did they do this? Rhirs hells and Folianas stupid tail, yes. Ill bet a fortune. Do you know why? Nice doesnt win wars. Worry about morality after you win. Thats a luxury and thats why Ive rolled over idiots who think I have to obey their rules. Do you know what the proof of whos better is, now? After all their history of fall and rise, decline and triumphthe Drakes still have the Walled Cities. The Gnolls have traditions like the Meeting of Tribes. Who won?

Bird considered the question. He replied, slowly.

You are not a nice man.

Niers snapped back. He wished he could sit in Fierres hat. But she didnt have one. Why not? Hed start a damn trend.

Im nice when I can afford to be. When your opponents hanging by the cliff, Bird, you dont give them a hand. You break their fingers. You get to be a silly Bird because someone else keeps you safe. They never do nice things. If you want to lead people, remember that. Their lives are your responsibility, so you never hold back. Never.

He waited. The Professor realized hed lost his temper and calmed down a bit. Something about Bird did annoy him, though. Perhaps it was being stuck in the hat. Perhaps it was just that: moralizing over what had been done.

The enemy has hurt your entire people. Dont argue over the ethics. Theyve done it.

What are you going to do? Feshi was at the Meeting of Tribes. Shed have an answer, he was sure. They needed to find Mrsha, but these Gnoll huntersthey were tearing apart cities for her!

Even I wouldnt authorize that, even if someone knifed me personally. Theres more than just vengeance and tradition here. The Titan began to tug on a string, but he had far fewer.

When the Antinium did speak, he was calm, for he liked and disliked Niers, but he knew the Titan was still the Titan. Even so, he murmured.

I do not see why you wanted to meet Erin. I do not think she would like you.

Niers Astoragon froze in his hat.

Why not? Shes a brilliant chess player, and from what youve said, shes done hard things and led armies. Dead gods, she challenged the Assassins Guild in Invrisil! She

He stopped then, because something strange happened. Something that made even the group talking about the incident turn. Numbtongue, Pivr, Goblins, Antinium, Humans, and more.

Bird was laughing. He laughed, like he had been taught, not like True Antinium laughed. And oh, it was free and gentle and mocking and innocent.

And sad. Niers heard him speak then.

You do not know Erin at all. I hope you someday do.

Me too, Bird. Me too.

The world had changed in a day. A grand conspiracy had been unveiled. Big things were going to happen and now everyone sensed it, not just the Titan of Baleros.

What did you do on such days? Well, you either talked, processed it, or you kept moving. In great tragedy or triumph, what else could you do?

Perhapseven Niers was taken completely aback by what came next.

So, [Shamans] are a power of spiritual magic?

Collective. I dont think theres a difference. Certainly in how they cast it, but ones simply innate, which is why you can suppress it. The others shared. Im not a [Scholar], but I know enough to know how to foil both.

Intriguing. But how do [Shamans] get magic?

Niers shrugged.

Ask Ulvama.

Bird went over and plucked at Ulvamas arm. The snoozing Hobgoblin jerked, raised her staff, and relaxed only fractionally.

Oh, you. Bird. What? Trouble?

She peered at the Gnolls, unconcerned with Gnoll drama. Bird shook his head.

How do [Shamans] get power, please?

Ulvama peered at him as if doubting this was a real question. Then she shrugged.

All Goblins have power. Not just magic bzzt.

She flicked her fingers, and tapped her chest.

Power. Because we are united. Tiny bit, lotsusually tiny. [Shamans] gather. [Shamans] have power from old things too.

She saw Birds blank expression, and Fierres, who had come over for a history lesson. So Ulvama sighed, and switched into a suddenly more advanced diatribe.

There is magic in many things. Magic in tradition. Magic in ideas. If you take a boring rock, and put it in a special place for a long time, it is powerful. Not to [Mages] unless the special place is mana zone, because [Mages] only see one thing. But [Shamans] see the value. [Shamans] take it. So our magic does not do what [Mages] do because it is not the same magic. Understand?

Oooh. Yes. So even non-[Mages] can

Yes, yes. I go back to sleep now. Okay?

Ulvama was turning over and Niers was chortling. He was going to borrow that for his lecture on [Shamans]. It was a nice little way of explaining it. What Ulvama didnt say was that the same held true. Cut off a [Mage]s magic and they had none. That was simple; anti-magic fields, or Skills, although a truly extraordinary [Mage] could punch through it.

To beat a [Shaman], you could have a harder time or easier. Like a [Wizard], if the staff mattered, hit the staff. If a tribes will mattered, shake it.

He was about to explain this all to Bird, since he regarded the Antinium as something of a pet projecthow high could his [Revalantor] class go? What did it do?when Bird spoke.

If it does not matter how much each person has, like Gnolls have [Shamans] even though there was a bad stone, does that not mean that Antinium can have [Shamans]?

Ulvama had snuggled into a ball, facing deliberately away from Bird. Fierre saw the crimson eyes open. The Vampire girl herself sat upright, blinking.

Niers said nothing at all. Bird looked around. He nodded to himself.

Then, he walked over to the Antinium. They were milling around, the ones with names and the many with none. Of them was Infinitypear, an [Adventurer], Touma the Great, [Martial Artist], and so on.

And the Antinium with scars all over his carapace. He had no name. He had an aura. He was old.

Bird did not know his story. No one knew his story. That was fine. The Soldier had never expected anyone to tell his story. He had never had Erin sit him down individually. He had never done anything worthy of notecertainly not like these Individuals. He did not envy them. He did not hate them. If anything, he was glad they had come because things were better.

He had not even known Mrsha that well. So why was he here? Because he had seen her, scampering around once when he got to come to the inn. He had eaten a bowl of congee. Stared into a fire and seen half of a play.

And that was more than he had ever had in six years of his life. So when they called, he came.

Bird passed right by him. The Antinium turned as Bird peered at an Antinium Worker with something interesting on its shell. Rather than just paint, it had discovered that some of the paints were also glues, so it had sprinkled dirt and grass onto its back shell, and applied what was more like a resin than glue.

Thus, Grass Shell had been created. The Worker had a little shortbow, a spear, and a buckler. He stopped still, as Bird came to him. The Individual of the Free Antinium pointed at him with all four hands.

You. You have the power of grass and dirt on your side. Therefore, you are most worthy. You are a [Shaman].

Grass Shells antennae waved frantically. A [Shaman]? Him? He peered down at his chest. Bird nodded.

You have the magic of the Free Antinium. Yay. Xrn will be happy! Or not? Someone tore her head off. Part of it.

He hopped away, humming to himself. Ulvama stared at Grass Shell. Xeu, Pivr, looked at each other in dead silence.

Niers Astoragon sat there, and came to a slow realization. Of course, he had known it, but he gave voice to it in full.

You are exceptionally dangerous, Bird.

The [Bird Hunter] tilted his head.

Me? I am just a silly Bird. You must be mistaken.

The Titan rubbed at his chin, smiling. He thought for a while, then mused aloud.

I wonderno, I dont have a copy of a chessboard. And Tallfolks are way too damn big. A pity. You told me you played chess, once. If only

Pawn to F4.

Bird happily spoke. The Titan blinked. He paused for a long moment. Then replied.

Pawn to E5.

Pawn takes E5. My bird is appearing.

Bird happily clapped two of his hands together. The Titan blinked, in the silence of his hat.

Erin Solstice taught you how to play chess with numbers?

Of course. Every Antinium can do it if they learn. Chess does not need a board. Silly. Even Apista can play chess with a board.

Apista, the undisputed grandmistress of chess in the bee world, buzzed lazily past Bird. She had, in fact, demonstrably won a game against Mrsha one time. It took nearly two hours as the two wandered away from the chess boardwell, Mrsha did. Apista kept having to figure out how to correctly attack with knights.

But she did win. Niers sat in Birds hat, murmuring chess notation. It did not go unnoticed, of course.

Bird. Are you playing a chess game against yourself?

Fals couldnt help but ask. Bird stopped muttering his moves, and hesitated.

No? Yes. I am lying.

The City Runner took it at face value, but Fierre almost went cross-eyed trying to work outFals grinned.

We can play an actual game of chess, if you want. I have a board. From Erins inn. I bought it back in the day. It might be worth something, right?

Some of the Gnolls looked over as Fals hopped onto the wagon and Bird climbed onto it.

I would like to play games of chess.

Well, take it easy on me. Ive seen the chess players in The Wandering Inn. I can let you finish your game.

Do not worry, Fals. It was only in my head. And I was winning.

Someone kicked Birds antennae and he winced and slapped his hat. Fals didnt notice.

Anyone else play chess?

Even the angry [Hunters] looked up. Fals was friendly enough to get a response from the growling Gnolls.

Chess? Weve heard of it. Some people in our tribe have a chess board. All they do is play the game. I had to hunt with one of them, once. Idiot watched a Corusdeer walk right by him because he was thinking of the next move.

Im not bad at chess.

Fierre offered. Numbtongue just rolled his eyes, but even Badarrow had been taught. And of course, the Antinium knew the game. It was Ulvama, of all people, who yawned.

Silly game. I am good at games. You show me, I win.

Her instant confidence made Birds head slowly turn. Niers whispered in Birds hat.

Let her win two games. Then crush her.

For once, both Antinium and Fraerling were in complete agreement. So Niers sat, watching, playing off games with Bird. It was amazing, but he actually did it. The Titan actually had to peek under a crack in his hat as Fals spluttered.

Poke me with needles, it actually looks like a bird. Sort of.

Chess and drama. Numbtongue listened sympathetically to a species who had gotten the quintessential Goblin experience for the first time in living memory. Ulvama began losing rapidly, for all the [Shaman] was, in fact, the best player in the Mountain City tribe, and started throwing fits.

Grass Shell just lay down. The thing about Antinium was that they had no true class. [Butcher], [Digger], [Warrior]all usually below Level 5, let alone Level 10.

[Shaman], now? Hed never even dreamed of being a [Shaman]. What did a [Shaman] do? He must be, though. Bird was a [Liar], but he didnt lie.The power of grass is in me? The little Antinium lay on his shelled back and lazily waved his arms and legs as he stared up at the sky.

[Shaman Level 1!]

[Skill Ambient Focus: Grass obtained!]

[Spell Razorgrass Patch obtained!]

-

Some people who didnt know all about the betrayal of Gnolls, the drama at the Meeting of Tribes, actually covered a lot of ground.

Ksmvr of the Horns of Hammerad ran across the ground, in the kind of run the Antinium could keep up forever. Only, faster because he had the Ring of Jumping that let him easily leap over obstacles, and his [Brave Skirmisher] class.

Next to him rode a woman with dark skin, bright eyes, hair flying behind her. Below her, horse sped along, bearing the Empress of Tiqr, the Empress of Beasts, on its back. Other animals had more speed, more enhancements by Skill or magic or pedigree. Few had such will.

A little cat meowed on the back of the saddle, strapped in to avoid falling off. She kept staring at a giant figure, running as the lights flashed in its crystal head, carrying a huge battleaxe on one shoulder.

Domehead was the slowest of the lot, which meant that the Golems dead-run that never faltered, and could run down horses within an hour or two, was the benchmark by which they travelled. They did not stop travelling, the three.

They were being followed. And they had destiny to catch.

Ksmvr. Do you know where your comrades are?

Yvlon is behind us, in Nerrhavias Fallen. However, Comrade Pisces is a captive of Roshal. I do not know where Ceria is. It is Pisces I must go to first. He will not be a [Slave].

Nsiias eyes glinted.

No indeed. Well-reasoned. Do you have a plan to catch him, though?

Ksmvr nodded.

I sequestered the aid of the First Crafter, among others. [Bandits] have been hired to raid Pisces caravan. Along with other bits of material aid. However, I will personally free Pisces if need be.

All by yourself? I heard tell it was a large caravan.

Ksmvr shrugged.

I am a Gold-rank adventurer. I will pick them off, lay traps. And I have this.

The sword of the [Paladin] was sheathed at his side. Nsiia eyed it.

Hyenas laugh at me, but thats fair enough. Even a Djinni would fear that blade.

Ksmvr nodded. He glanced at the Empress of Beasts.

And you are headed the same way to find your army along the Kilalle Steppes. I suppose we are allies, then. It occurred to me an army might free Pisces.

The woman smiled.

It might, mightnt it? But that would depend on whether we stick together.

Ksmvr nodded. The sun rose over the borders of Illiveres lands, as they passed out of the greenery and cliffs which had given rise to each states strength in stone and the cultivated lands built on Golem-labor. They headed north, for anyone wanting to hide marched along Zeikhal, the Great Desert where sand and sheer distance made it easier to elude pursuit.

Are you sure you didnt want to take the Golem horse?

Nsiia asked Ksmvr after the first hour. She was busy setting herself, adjusting what she had taken, and looking at Domehead. Domehead, who had come after her, not to Femithain or anyone else when freed. Ksmvr had called her a poor mother.

Which meant he was a son? The Empress of Beasts had no idea what to say to that. If she feared anything, more than pursuit, being captured by the forces that would surely follow from all countries that feared her return and Femithain himself, she feared that Ksmvr was right even more.

Ksmvr replied steadily as he ran.

I am a [Skirmisher], I have plentiful stamina potions, and I am Antinium. We have marched for days on end without rest. It is what we were designed to do. Moreover, as a law-abiding adventurer, stealing a Golem Horse would be considered theft of a national treasure.

Nsiia threw her head back and laughed.

The rest of it was not a crime? Facing down Illiveres finest, freeing me?

Ksmvr shrugged. He calmly munched on a dry ration bar, as he had exerted himself a bit that night.

It is lawful refusal to be held prisoner, asserting my right to self-defenseand I did not free you.

Oh?

I simply waved my sword between your hands. That is what Ceria told me to say if I ever got in trouble. It sometimes works.

Nsiia laughed. She threw her head back and breathed in. Free. There was a difference, for all that Femithain had never chained her until the end. Free. She spoke, a note in her voice.

I shall not forget this, Ksmvr of the Horns of Hammerad. This is a mighty thing you have done for me. I failed my kingdom once; never again, I say. I shall have it back. Not at any cost. I paid one far too high in losing it, but I hear my people are the poor subjects of other lands, slaves like your friend. I will free every single one, and I will repay you as well.

Ksmvrs head turned. He nodded, calmly.

I shall register the debt, Empress Nsiia.

She regarded him.

Ksmvr of the Horns of Hammerad. Ksmvr of the Free Antinium. Have you no last name to call yourself, Ksmvr?

No. I do not need one. Antinium have one name, if any.

Hm. You should have two. One so they know you, the other so they know from where you came. Be it tribe, or deed, or place. I am Nsiia Oliphant, so-named because of my capital city, and the very Grand Elephants my people made friends with long ago. You should have a name like that. Perhaps you should choose one?

Ksmvr stared ahead.

Byres, maybe?

The Empress eyes brightened, but Ksmvr shook his head.

It does not matter at this moment, Empress Nsiia.

True! As for you. Domehead!

The Golem turned, arms and legs pumping in distance-covering run #1, the algorithm running smoothly. Yet Nsiia saw lights shine from individual crystals in its atrium-dome. She drew closer as the Golem kept running. It never changed speed, never did more than slightly turn to her, as it was programmed to do when addressed.

Yet she sensed something watching her. Nsiia reached out. Her hand hovered near the reinforced plate armor. And Domeheadmoved back.

To avoid hurting her by accident? Getting in her way? Or?

Oh, Domehead. I have not treated you well. Do youdo you understand me? Can you communicate?

The great automaton said nothing, but the lights moved in its head. Nsiia threw her head back and yowled, like Yinah. A guilty sound. Ksmvr nearly fell over a rock as the sun began to bake the dry, flat ground. It was warm at first, then unpleasantly hot. He absently reached for a water bottle. He must remember to hydrate.

I will make it up to you. I must apologize. YouDomehead, never let anyone strike you again. Not I, not your creators, not anyone. Do you understand me? Can you tell me if you rage?

He said and did nothing, just ran. Nsiia looked at him. Then she rode closer.

Again, the Golem veered away slightly, but Nsiia just followed. Domehead hesitatedthen did what no unthinking Golem should. He stopped moving away and let her come nearer. As they rode, Nsiia gently placed a hand on his side.

I know not what Femithain has given you. But if Ksmvr is correctI beg your forgiveness again, and again, Domehead. For you are a child born of metal and magic. Yetyou come to us, on this day we shall mark, and mark again. Little child. Born to Tiqr. Beasts friend. Stop your crying. Still your fear. For wherever animal or person roams, a friend shall be near. I ask that you grow older, and wiser, and live long. Levels come to you, and may your life be filled with song

Ksmvr listened, as she began to recite a nursery rhyme. He had never heard it before, and she dared not slow, even as she rode. Yet the Empress never took her hand away from the great Golem as she sang.

So passed their first hours in flight. As the sun rose, it got hotter, and hotter, and hotter.

Ksmvr knew this, of course, but he found it displeasurable the more it baked his brown-black carapace. Nsiia was used to it. Domehead didnt care. Ksmvr did not slow, but he emptied the first water flask that would have lasted him half a day on Izril.

The heat is a disadvantageous foe.

He confided to Nsiia as they slowed. She nodded.

What manner of provisions have you? I didnt have much to take, although I had a bag in case I did ever manage to flee

I have ample food and supplies. Observe. Rations.

He had bought nearly twenty pounds of dried rations, a staple across Adventurers Guilds and one of the things they sold. These were, of course, a local variety used by Illiveres folk, so it was a kind of Yellat-paste mixed with nuts, dried jerky, then sun-dried and compiled into bars or even cubes.

Luan set down the scull, which was virtually weightless, and got into it. Hed push into the water; he didnt like how quiet it was.

Were moving fast. Everyone ready? Anchored?

Grappling in place. Do what youre going to do, Mister Luan.

Noas eyes were shining with excitement. The other three Fraerlings braced as Luan put his new paddle to the sand. He gently pushed into the water.

Amazing. It was so easy to push himself forwards! Even the top-of-the-line sculls back home werent this lightweight. This weighed practically nothing, enchanted by magic. They had engineered it to cut through the water, the paddle to push more water than it should

Luan glided out into the surf, but didnt feel it trying to rock the tiny vessel. He grinned.

This is amazing. This is

Watch out!

A Tallguard loosed an arrow as the water exploded and a Giant Crocodile came out, huge jaws open. Luan shouted.

You bastard!

A little explosion blew a tooth out of the mouth as one arrow hit it, but Luan didnt try to hit the croc. He just put the paddle into the water, and pushed.

The crocodile snapped its jaws shut, thrashing, bitingwater. It turned left and right, huge eyes confused. What? Where had

The scull skipped. It actually left the water for a second. Luan, the Fraerlings, Noa, all had that open-mouthed, bug-eyed expression. Then they started screaming.

Aaaaa

Luan hit the water and made the mistake of trying to correct himself with another full-force stroke; he thought they were about to roll. Instead, the scull auto-balanced and his second push with the oar?

Luan Khumalo. Olympian-class [Athlete], [Expert Rower], with multiple Skills already enhancing the best technique in sculling in either world. [Lesser Strength], [Power Strokes].

Scull. Nearly zero-gravity, enhanced with water resistance, balance, and durability.

Oar. Also lightweight, extremely reinforced to take on the main enchantment, which was to generate an approximately quadruple-sized presence in the water with each stroke, to magnify the amount of water Luan could displace, and thus generate acceleration in

A passing seagull did a double-take as a screaming man and four tiny people flew past it. It banked, swerving away. Now the apes were flying? The sky was just going downhill, it really was. Who would they allow up here next? Dogs?

Luan actually capsized his scull. Like some kind of complete rookie, he felt the water engulf him, began to rollright before a force twisted him around and sent him whirling back upright.

Drenched, water in his ears, nose, the Human spat out seawater.

Noa! Resk! Are you

Four soaked Fraerlings were still clinging to his shoulders. They stared at Luan as the boat auto-rolled him back upright. Everyone was silent as the scull serenely glided forwards, like it was on a flat lake, not the actual waves near the coast.

I thought you said you were good at this paddling thing.

Resk muttered after a moment of silence. Luan didnt even correct him. He slowly, gingerly put his paddle into the water.

No one told me this thing auto-corrects itself. Thisthis might be overengineered.

Im going to complain when I get back.

One of the Tallguard agreed. Gingerly, Luan pushed and the scull shot forwards. Noa gasped.

Its so fast!

Too fast! Im about to launch us with every stroke!

Luan agreed. He was actually way too strong and the scull was like a wild animal, threatening to shoot out of the water if he put any strength into it. Neverthelessa wild grin was on his face. He began to adjust, pushing lightly, and the scull shot forwards. Luan thought he passed an imaginary Luan in his head. The other man took one look at the Luan in his enchanted boat, shooting past him as he labored with all his best Skills working.

This is amazing. Wild, in need of adjustment, butLuan caught himself as he laughed.

Think we can install a cabin or something?

Resk was muttering as he surveyed the scull for a place to sit besides Luans shoulders. Maybe they could? The only other place was in the waterskirt, but he really didnt want to sit in a confined space next to Luans groin. He settled for another anchoring spell.

Yet the Giant was laughing. He cast about, and then recalled hed lost a lot of his gear.

Noa, can you get out your compass and your map? We need to head south, along the coast.

The Fraerlings did have a good map of the region. Luan turned, and began to shoot into deeper waters.

First stop! Talenqual!

He smiled, then tried to temper the joy in his heart as he recalled Paeths plight. His friends.

They had work to do. Even so, he felt that indescribable sense of adventure in his heart. Magic. This was what hed wanted, the moment he appeared.

-

There was a joy to magic. Yes, like all things, if you made it your profession, if you took it in the context of politics and work, it lost its charm.

Yet it was still magic. Point at something, cast a spell, and you could levitate an object, or shoot fire from your palms or

The problem was how hard it was to memorize, redeploy the magic in exactly the right way, and strain. One component of magic as [Mages] did it was to have absolute focus in your mind, like holding an entire calculus equation and understanding it while recreating it.

So no wonder the Earthers who came to Wistram couldnt get into it as fast as they wanted. No swish and flick for them.

Well, you can do that. Sort of. If youre a [Wizard], you can rely on enchanted gear. That makes sense, doesnt it? Its just not [Mage]-magic.

In that case, I want to be a fucking [Wizard], Harry. Not a [Mage]. How about a [Sorcerer]?

Uhtheyll laugh at you. And its just as hard. Only, instead of knowing spells, you just think so hard

Gaaaaah!

Flynn tossed the spellbook to one side and buried his face in his hands. Instantly, Pokey, the Needlehound, nosed up to him and licked his arm. He gently petted her on the head as Elena rubbed at her face.

Its really unpleasant, Aaron. My head feels like its going to explode. How does Troy do it?

Aaron Vanwell, or Blackmage, shrugged. He was a bit envious of Troy, to be honest.

Someone taught him really well. He said he also saw combat, so I think he has, yknow, perspective?

Ive seen combat. I still cant hold the magic in my head. What if I got a wand and just cast magic like that?

You can do that. But someones got to charge it up.

Thats what Ill do. Sorry, I need to take a walk.

Aaron nodded, biting back any comment as Flynn got up. George, Elena, Saif, Basil, Sang-min, Caroline, and more were part of the study group.

A lot of the Earthers had quit, though, and Aaron feared that Flynn would too. He wished Troy were here to give some advice, but he was studying at a higher level than the rest.

And to be fair, Aaron was high-level and had been here the longest. He even had tips and knowledge that all [Mages] except maybe Eldavin lacked. It was just that you still had to work hard, and not everyone was cut out for it.

How about we all take a break and play in the adventure rooms? Or have a beach party? Ive got a new drinks-mix from one of the [Mages].

George suggested hopefully. Aaron bit his lip. Elena answered for him.

If we keep taking breaks, no ones going to level, George. Youre free to go, but this isnt a school project or homework. Its a class.

Chastened, he flushed, and the [Beautician] rubbed at her temples.

Okay, Aaron. Lets go over [Firefly] again.

In truth, the magic study sessions were really for those who hadnt found their place yet. Some came to learn magic, but they already had a class. Already knew who they were, in a way. Flynn was a Bronze-rank [Beast Tamer]. Elena was a [Beautician] and she spent as much time with Sala as chivvying the other Earthers.

Malia, for instance, didnt even attend the magical lessons. She was a [Thought Healer] and made it her duty to make sure Basil, Sidney, and the others were alright. They were doing a lot better now, thanks to Telims help.

And then there were the Earthers who didnt just live, but thrive. Leon was the newest arrival, and he was a bit aghast when Erik, the [Actor] and member of the Aquais faction of Wistram, handed out flyers.

Were putting on Elisial tonight. Anyone want to come?

Is there free food?

Erik grinned.

You show me a play without some. Dont worry. There are silence spells and special effects.

You uh, know Elisial? I know the Players of Celum put it on

Leon murmured. Aaron glanced at him and Elenas lips pursed, but Erik just nodded.

We got a copy of their script.

Some of Leons newfound popularity had diminished, as had his bold claims, after meeting with the Silver Swords, but he still had the amazing connections to so many things. Aaron knew he wasnt all that. Elena, for instance, had met Cara OSullivan, the Singer of Terandria. She hadnt seen all of what Cara had been throughbut oh, she could tell he hadnt been as central to some of his stories as he claimed.

She didnt out him. The others dithered over the play; there was a lot to do in Wistram, but one young woman announced she couldnt make it.

Im sorry, but I have to get back to work! Im trying to come out with a new piece for this months magazine, and I just have to write The [Cook] and the Centaur. Leon, tell me more about Imani.

Caroline, the lone [Writer] of their group, and survivor of Baleros, looked at Leon and he hesitated.

Alright, then. But um. Is it going to be anotherromance?

Its fiction. Dont worry, Ill change her name!

Heartslayi smiled as Blackmage gave her a long look. She had come to them completely by chance. Shed actually been abducted in Baleros jungles, but before she was sold off, a Wistram [Mage] had found her and immediately taken her to Wistram.

She had stories aplenty, but had been cagey about other Earthers, on Elenas immediate advice. Nevertheless, Caroline was a success story. Her romance stories, that was.

Aaron was not sure what to think about that. Hed read her latestpiece. Which involved a love story between the Horns of Hammerad who had perished in the Village of the Dead.

Privately, he thought it was in bad taste, but Caroline already had a fan base. And even rivals.

Are you still getting letters from Sandquen?

Every week. I dont know who she is, but she keeps writing insults about my stories. Its just like home, you know? Only slower since theres no internet. Do you think we could get someone to help me trace who it is? Shes really getting on my nerves, but shes not getting published, is she?

Caroline scoffed at her unknown rival. It was as they were breaking up, heading to their respective places, that someone accosted Aaron and Saif.

A half-Elf with white hair. Not Feor. A huge, built [Grand Mage], who Aaron had been warned to stay away from by hisown mentor. Nevertheless, Grand Magus Eldavin had shot to the top of Wistrams hierarchy, so he was allowed even in the new Earth-corridors arranged for them.

By request, Elena had petitioned for that. The factions could demand an Earther be theirs, but the Earthers wanted to stick together and it kept them from leaking secrets to the general body.

So they now had their zone, with the exception of a few people like Troy who were active students. It was like dorm life in college, complete with quarrels, drama

But they were also part of Wistram. So Eldavin halted.

Aaron Vanwell. I have need of you. Teura, which one is Saif?

Right there, Grand Magus.

Saif gulped as the half-Elf glanced at him with his mismatched eyes.

Ah, excellent. Young Saif, with me, please. And you Aaron. Well head to your rooms. Saif, fetch this gun Ive heard so much about.

Elenas head shot up as Eldavin led the way. Aaron blinked.

Grand Magus? You wanted me?

The half-Elf nodded, striding along, with his personal entourage of devoted [Mages]. Teura had jumped ship so fast shed left the boat rocking. She hung on Eldavins words, and she wasnt the only one.

Even Telim and Sala were part of the new Terras faction. Even Valeterisa. Eldavin was speaking.

Its past time. Ive been occupied getting ahold of Wistram. Now? Action. Is the announcement about the boycott?

Already done, Grand Magus. Fissival is already protesting.

Excellent. Let them. Inform the Meeting of Tribes that weIwould personally like to assure them that if they would like to rectify our long-standing differences, we would be delighted to host no less than two hundred Gnoll students capable of arcane magic with the next semester. Assuming any of them have any magic. We might have to make [Wizards] of the lot.

You think they might not have the aptitude?

From magical suppression that extensive? It might have literally crippled their natural development. However, the announcement

Aaron trailed in Eldavins wake, like he was following a hurricane. Here was a force to be reckoned with. Yet why did Emerrhain dislike him so? He refused to tell Aaron why in theirlessons. Only that Eldavin was a complication.

To whose plans? Moreover, Emerrhain himself

No one had ever really talked about the message sent on all the iPhones on the Summer Solstice. Sometimes Elena would stare at Aaron, but he had denied doing it. Most of the others thought it was a joke or

Some had begun praying again. To their respective religions. In private. Aaron couldnt talk about anything he knew, anyways. He could only help the others. If he wanted to, Emerrhain had promised he could actually get Elena off Wistram. Did Aaron want that? He felt things were actually going well. Better to be a prisoner, yet growing in ability in the safety of Wistram, than faced with some of the horrors Leon had talked about.

However, things changed so fast. Eldavin opened the door to Aarons room without asking. Aaron would have protested, but nothingspecialwas in there.

Grand Magus Eldavin. What are you doing in Aarons room?

Eldavin turned at Elenas sharp voice. He gave her a slight nod.

Miss Elena. Excuse the intrusion, but I am in a hurry. Moreover, young Vanwell did mention this beforeah, there it is. Is this gun-object there too? To the battle rooms or whatever nonsense you call it.

He turned. And he hadAarons heart skipped a beat. Elena started.

The Iron Man glove.

That was what everyone called it. It could actually shoot lightning, but it had to be hooked up to a bulky magicore battery. Eldavin eyed the creation of Aaron, Archmage Naili, and to some degree, Emerrhain, with distaste.

I see whats been done, now. Yes, yes. A decent reinforcement spell, non-conductivity and electrical resistance, obviously, and a simple link to a [Shock Volt] spell from the magicore battery. Activate in a number of ways. Howsimple. Yet Im told it echoes some element from Earth?

Ererstories, Grand Magus. It doesnt exist yet, but its one of the uh, superhero stories.

Ah, yes. Theoretical. But this is a version of a weapon from your world? It fires pellets, though, not metal?

Saif had the airsoft gun that had perplexed and intimidated the [Mages] on the wrong end of it. The pellets that the [Mages] had made for it gave it more ammunition, and indeed, they had found out how to maintain it.

Just not replicate. Eldavin stared at the object with clear distaste.

Id like to see it in action. Teura, would you do me the favor of?

She was already stepping into the battle room, and let Saif do his demonstration with his Boots of Speed, tricks, zipping out of cover, firing, repositioning

Eldavin watched as he summoned more of his apprentices. A young [Bard] had some armorplain steel, unenchanted, unlike the painted gauntlet Aaron had worked so hard on. He had a bad feeling about what was coming next.

I see. So Earths amazing tactics, which so befuddled our best battle mages, is a simple upgrade of a crossbow and the ability to use cover and move around. The age of Wistrams name being feared on every war front is clearly long gone. No wonder that Magus Grimalkin told me he had a kill count of over three dozen.

Eldavin looked disgusted. Not at Teura, but at Saifs amazing combat abilities. The young man saw Eldavin walk over.

I can see what is meant now. If that object were to fire metal at the speeds described, I hardly imagine a mundane army would survive long. [Mages]? We can certainly counter that.

You have a thought, Grand Magus?

Teura reappeared, and his personal cortege listened avidly. Eldavin smiled.

Intangibility spells. Unless their munitions are enchanted, it should be a standard. Well bring it back. However, Earth has many unique ideas that echo, or build upon, concepts of times past. Their notions of armored vehiclesintriguing. I have to say, there is some charm to experimenting. So, young Aaron, Im told youve been working on this armored suit idea for quite some time.

Aaron stared as Eldavin turned, holding the glove out.

Will you talk to me about this Iron Man concept?

IIwell, its only an idea. But I thought if you had a suit of armor, and you could still cast magicor just fly around

Elena watched as Aaron tried to explain to Eldavin. For some reason he stuttered, despite being so enthusiastic about it. Eldavin hmmed, tapping his lips.

So a flying [Knight]. There have been those in the past. What I like is the idea of this magical battery. You see? Clearly a simple magicore battery is foolish, but a pack mounted on the rear?

Its an expensive idea, Grand Magus. A single suit of that would cost gold to bronze pennies compared to even a traditional [Knight].

Telim murmured. The High Magus liked the idea of adventure, same as Aaron. But Eldavinwhy was he asking?

Of course, High Mage Telim. But considering that it might protect a [Mage], who has spent decades in study? A single warrior can change the tides. Thats what a superhero is all about, isnt it, Aaron?

Sort of.

Eldavin smiled. It was kindly, butElena thought it was different from how he had acted at the start. He was less mysterious. Moreactive.

Then well begin. Everyone, follow through. I dont think we need to enchant from the ground up; well get some Boots of Levitation. Just so long as we keep the magical interference near zero. Teura, you lightweight that breastplate. Ill overlay it; just keep the enchantment concise. Should I enchant Saifs gun to enhance the output? Perhaps not if its meant to be demonstrated. We dont need casualties already.

Aarons mouth went dry as Eldavin pointed and a gauntlet rose. The Grand Magus hmmed, and it changed color, matching the very gauntlet he had.

Grand Magus? What are you doing?

Elena spoke quietly. The half-Elf turned.

Realizing young Aarons project, Miss Elena. Aaron, I hope you will volunteer to trial the armor? If we can get it working, this can be one of the hearts of Wistrams own arm of battle. Flying, [Armored Mages]. Its been done before. They dont cast spells, they just blast things with bound spells from the gauntlets and rely on magical batteries. Ingenious.

Blackmage and Elena traded a look. Eldavin turned back to the suit of armor as the other [Mages] gathered around. Teura went off to get the boots. Aaron stood there.

It was one thing to make a gauntlet, to dream of it. Eldavin? He intended to realize it.

Did you say arm of battle, Grand Magus? Wistram doesnt have an army.

He turned, impatient.

Nonsense, my dear. We have a Golem army here, but we cannot control it or do anything with it. Wistram used to stride into battlefields. Well, if we are preparing for anything, be it Earth, oranything else

His eyes flickered.

We might as well prepare, shouldnt we? Aaron, come here. How fast were you hoping to go? And ah, are there any more things about this iron-fellow you can tell me about? Any more ideas would be quite interesting. Flying planes? I dont see a [Flying] spell being superceded for the moment and this is already one aerial project. However

Elena backed away. Saif had his toy gun in his hands, and it was a toy. He backed up too. Eldavin had just offered to transform it. Elena had worried and told the others to keep silent. Now here was the nightmare Cara had dreamed of, calmly making the first suit of magical armor. And that?

That was only the beginning of Eldavins renaissance in Wistram.

-

When it seemed like the world was burning, when it all seemed bad. Not all hands were against you. Not all events were sad.

The misconception was about enemies. Who were their enemies? Wistram? Drakes? Dead things?

You were against some people by accident, or because you had a side. Not because they were evil. Some of them might be misguided, or simply stubborn or

They were not all against you. Grand Magus Eldavin was so busy as he worked. Nevertheless, he had time to realize a young mans dream, and that was how he saw it. Armored [Mages], flying around?

Sometimes you needed them. After allhe paused and thought about it.

House Veltras, backed by the Five Families, was sailing into conflict against Ailendamus. Ryoka Griffin was missing, spirited away by a superiby a competent spellcaster. He could put two and two together.

That girl is under my protection. The half-Elf hummed. He had felt like hed woken up. He had indeed had a revelation of sorts. But he was still TEldavin. That girl is under my protection.

How dare you? Whoever you areand children? He had told Valeterisa to look into that little childs disappearance on her way south. Too long had Wistram allowed things like Fissivals actions to go unchecked.

There could be a better world. He knew it. Not Earth. A better world. He felt like he had seen it, before. Time now again.

-

Who are your enemies? Who, in this wide world, are your foes?

Only a fool said they had no foes. That was a thoughtless, incredibly stupid statement. Understandable, hyperbolic, but consider this: to say you had no enemies and you got along with everyone was to turn a blind eye to injustice.

You werent opposed to the act of keeping slaves? If you had no enemies, you stayed away from politics or world-events, you didnt get to pretend terrible atrocities didnt happen. You just stated, by inaction, you didnt really care.

Erin Solstice had enemies. She also had great friends. Even now, though, even in death, she had taken a stand.

Slaves are bad. No, wait. Slavery is bad. Yup. Yup.

It might be a hard pill to swallow, but someone had to say it. And shove it down every throat, if need be. That was why some of them loved her.

The ghosts of Roshal and their like watched, narrow-eyed, thin lipped, and poor of soul. The best of them werent even here, but those who were just petty enough not to sink into Riqres depths had no voice that Erin wanted to hear.

She sat amongst friends and companions, dead though they might be. She listened and learned and laughed.

Gerial. Was that what Ceria was like? Shes sodifferent now.

Ah, well. Thats how we knew her. She was in a slump. So were we, in a way. Calruz was always sort of bull-headed, but he really got into trouble when he first came to Izril. He thought theyd make him Gold-rank in a month.

Thats CalruzI need to see him. What should II say?

The man thought. He shook his head, but not for lack of words.

You got one chance, ever. Which was terrifying because everyone forgot it, until it was too late and they were reminded. But if you got two

Tell that bull-headed idiot. Tell himtell him I said

He leaned over and whispered. The [Innkeeper] listened. And promised to remember.

Ill tell him, I promise. Andand has anyone found anyone else who knows someone I know? I dont think Mrshas parents are here, orher tribe. Maybe there are some ghosts still coming?

If there are any, we will find them.

Calmly, Califor replied. Erin nodded. Now was time to rest. They would go back to studying soon, but she had a day off. A day, measured by the dead.

What day is it today? Is it the fourteenth or fifteenth?

Out on the sands, a Queen of Nerrhavias Fallen seized a newly-appeared [Bandit] and shook him until he answered her. She relaxed.

Still the same day!

Nerrhavias own shade rolled her eyes at Queen Merindue.

Silly ghosts. Sillysad ghosts, working together. Erin was aware of a great event taking place with Khelts rulers. They tried to keep it secret, but everyone could see the magical thingamabobby they were working on.

However, she had different goals and a job to do. Erins head was packed with revelations of the dead and she feared shed forget some things. Unimportant things, like Potions of Youth, as opposed to Gerials last words, of course.

It was as she sat, though, that a few more ghosts introduced themselves to her. The [Witches] were aware even Erins ghost had limits to the knowledge she could cram into her mind. They were cutting out that portion of her learning.

Just in case her head were to explode upon returning to her body.

Somillune remarked. Erin Solstice hesitated.

Hah. Thats a joke, right?

Most likely.

However, one ghost did come up the steps, hobbling, frowning up at her. Erin Solstice, in the midst of asking Cawe about her family, anyone to talk to, hesitated.

Whos this? Someone else to help out the Khelt-people?

Queen Khelta herself frowned down as she floated past, but shook her head.

Not ours. Is yon figure a guest, Witch Califor?

The Witch peered down. Her eyes blinked twice, and she looked past Khelta, sharply.

A gigantic [Witch] of tree and earth nodded.

I HAVE FOUND HIM, THOUGH IT TOOK A DOING TO CONVINCE HIM TO COME.

The ghost walking up the stairs winced, and put two fingers in his ears. Khelta blinked, and the ghosts stirred.

Whos that?

A [Vision of the Desert] nudged the [Archmage of Grasses], the Gnoll who was really unhappy to hear about what those damn Drakes had done to her people. The Gnoll stroked her chin.

Idont know. Perhaps he is not as important?

On the contrary. The older ghosts had no idea, even the ones who had been [Legends]literallyin their era. Yet all the hip, trendy new ghosts knew.

I didnt even think toCalifor, you sent for him?

The Witch nodded at the recently dead. Her eyes lit on an older man, balding, grumpily stomping up the stairs and looking around. That he was old, was a meaning. Some ghosts looked like they had at the prime of their life. However they chose.

But this man clearly believed how I died is how I damn well died. He had his eyes on Erin, recognizing her as halfway between life and death as all ghosts could.

So this is the young woman you hauled me all the way here for? Well, she doesnt look like much. And Im to celebrate her as the one true hope, eh? Hah.

Erin Solstice blinked as a crabby old man halted, arms folded. He wore a kind of robe, but more sensical than [Mages]. Many pockets, to hold sheafs of paperthere was a quill behind one ear, and two in various sleeves. He had ink stains on one arm, a sign his ghost was more powerful, and remembered such details.

Personality. He peered down his glasses at her.

Um. Hello. Who are you?

Annoyed, miss. Annoyed that even when Im dead, I dont have time to work and sit alone in peace. Annoyed that you dont have the courtesy to stand up and introduce yourself despite me coming all this way.

Erin Solstice blinked. Then she slowly rose. She had the conflicting desire to poke fun at this old man, and to apologize.

Im sorry. Sort of. Uh, Im Erin Solstice. Who are you?

She offered him a hand. He took it, briskly, and shook it.

Architect Drevish, formerly of Reim. At your service, miss.

Below her, ghosts turned. The old ones had no idea what all the fuss was. But Cawe went wide-eyed, as did Gerial. Even Reims former king, or rather, grandfather of Flos, raised his head.

Drevish. Drevish. Hold on. I sort of know that name. Drevish

Erin rubbed her chin with genuine puzzlement. The [Architect] snorted. Gerial whispered.

Erin! This is Drevish, the Architect! One of the King of Destructions Seven!

Erin Solstices eyes widened. Below her, every [Architect], [Builder of Fables], and similarly-classed ghost looked up in deep offense. Yet the greatest [Architect] of his time had an ego to match.

I can see they still remember me. And Im told you own an inn of your own, Erin Solstice.

Yes. Umwow. So youre the guy who went around with that jerk? I meanthe King of Destruction?

Erin was conflicted since she didnt hear nice things about Flos. Drevishs mouth quirked.

That jerk? Hah. I can see youre worth the travel, if only to get rid of that annoying witch.

He nodded at the [Witch] whod come to find him. Then he peered at Erin.

With that said, refrain from insulting him in my presence, young woman.

But hes a warmongering guy who

He is the King of Destruction, and you do not know him, clearly. There is a reason I served him, and if you are at all polite, I ask you to be polite. Know him before you mock him, because the tales told about Flos Reimarch range from truth exaggerated to falsehood completely. And I do not build walls out of lies.

He had a little cane, and waved it slightly before tapping it on the ground. Erin Solstice blinked at Drevish.

Isorry.

The ghosts around her were impressed. This [Architect] had done more than some royalty, including Nerrhavia, who had stormed away from Erin twice while telling her tales. Perhaps it was because Drevish was not royalty. He nodded at her.

There is much to talk about. I am told you might need help upon living, if such a thing can be done. And perhaps you need information about my [King]. Indeed, there are things I could tell you that wouldpersuade him to act.

He glanced, troubled, around this vast gathering. Califors eyes were on Drevishs face. The Architect shook his head.

I do not know if that is appropriate. I do not know if it is wise for the dead to haunt the living. And he is haunted, that fool. If Queravia were here, I would let her decide. OrTottenval. But I am told Tottenval might not be here, if he was lost at sea. As for QueraviaI cannot find her. Perhaps she lies on Baleros.

Likely so.

Califor muttered. Drevish shook his head.

I had hoped to meet them in time, and we had forever to reunite. But I simply sat and relaxed and before I knew it, a calamity was upon us. Simply obnoxious. Who designed death and life so?

Erin smiled. He was so offended. Yet the old man fixed her with a gaze, as if she were a pet project and he was wondering if she was worth the effort.

Well, I shall take stock of the situation, as always. But before that, young miss! You will sit down, as I am old and I feel tired, even though I am dead, and tell me all about your inn. What style was it? Im told you have inherited the [Garden of Sanctuary]. Have you unearthed its secrets? Have you designed around it? What is the style of Izrilian architecture today? Please tell me you dont have decorative pillars or I may have to simply up and leave

Erin stuttered. Suddenly, she was faced with the greatest challenge of her death. Which was explaining why she had separated outhouses, a weird Bird-tower, and the particulars of her inn to an [Architect] who had opinions on how stupid each part was.

So you have a pointless hallway filled with obvious traps that everyone must proceed down and waste precious seconds of their life? A hallway that did not, in fact, save your life when you were shot by crossbows?

Wbuhwhen you say it like that it sounds stupid. But it works! I think!

Drevish looked pained beyond belief. He was already making Erin sketch since only she could create in the world of the dead.

If I tell you anything, you will swear to me to completely rework this abomination. It sounds like these Antinium are good [Builders]I should have liked to meet them and studied their design. But the style? Did a [Princess] of Terandria decide to make this rubbish?

Now that you mention it

Oh, a great meeting. Oh, the dead who mattered in conjunction with the living. Erin and Drevish were arguing about Birds tower, but he took her by surprise, as the Giant standing sentry on Chandrars shores with the umbrella raised his head and called an alarm.

No, no. If youre going to do a watchtower, miss, you build the inn around it. See here! A central tower, three times as tall! Put Liscors walls to shame and mount a ballista on top.

Are you sure youre an [Architect]? Bird would love you.

The old man smiled.

Miss Erin Solstice. What is the point of being generic? Buildings should be perfect for their intent. They should also be grand when they need to be. Impressive! Eye-catching! Worth building. They should protect, and inspire, and make people laugh.

She looked at him, and liked him. And wished he werent here to meet her, because Drevish the Architect was alright.

Then she heard the hubbub, the call to arms. That copy of the sword in the stone rose, and Erin saw all heads turn. Something was coming. Something was

No, it wasnt an attack.

Not yet.

Not

Yet.

-

It was in fact, a familiar ghost who came. Well, one of them was familiar.

Xarkouth!

The Void Dragonlord rested his wings, panting. He rasped as he landed in front of Khelts palace.

Greetings, undead rulers.

Dragon.

Khelta inclined her head a fraction of a millimeter at him. The two traded barbs, but weakly. Xarkouth shook his head.

We barely escaped them. But not for Terandrias ghosts in the south sallying forthand they seemed distracted, from the presence as well as something that drew three northeven so, we barely made it.

He had passengers. Ghosts who landed, calling out greetings. Erin, peeking down at Xarkouth and waving, heard a shout.

Glorious Calanfer be with you!

Oh, dead gods. Terandrians.

One of the ghosts muttered. Erin just smiled and laughed. For no less than a [King] and [Queen] had come on Xarkouths back! And more!

It amazes us! We thought only Baleros yet lived, but here we see sunlight and a sword to match any relic we battle the foes with! Greetings, queen of

The [King] did a double-take at Kheltas clear [Necromancer] origins, but the [Queen] shoved him aside.

From Noelictus to you, I bear words of hope and support, kin.

Ah. Then you are well met indeed, cousin! How fares Terandria?

Khelta kissed the cheek of the Noelictus [Queen] with delight. Xarkouth nodded at Erin.

Mortal girl. Have they not brought you back, yet?

Not yet. Hey, Xark.

The Dragonlord gave her a look. Erin grinned. Drevish harumphed quietly, taking it all in.

The ghosts were talking, conveying news, how they had held off the six with weapons that remained in death. Also, events of note.

We come from Ailendamus, where they make war on the Dawn Concordat. A waste of timebut something happened. For a second, I swear I smelled grass and felt the wind on my face. It certainly frightened the six. It was centered in Ailendamus, in the castle.

Where? I have never heard of this nation.

Brand new. Its swept each nation aside, and theres a reason for that. If I could but warn my kingdom

Silence. Enough petty talk!

Xarkouth bellowed and offended ghosts looked up at the Void Dragonlord. Yet he opened one wing and revealed a final ghost.

That you have a name for the foes who assail usI brought the news from Baleros, and there are kin there who want to speak with you. Great ghosts, Erin Solstice. However. There is news of even greater import here. They were not sure whether to tell me, these petty arguers. Seeing one of the six convinced them. Tell them what you know, [Knight].

A single figure, far less grand than the other ghosts present, but still shining with some measure of her soul, stepped forwards and bowed. She was wide-eyed, with that look of Cawes, that of someone recently dead, taking it all in. She looked at Erin, then addressed the others, humbly, sinking to one knee.

I am Dame Eclizza of Ailendamus. Great Knight, and newly fallen to the Death of Magic.

Some of the ghosts stirred. Others muttered, who?

Our sympathies for your death, but the Death of Chains, even the Death of Magic are not the threats that concern us. Perhaps what they hold backbut we know not details.

It was the Rebel of String, Elucina, who called down. Dame Eclizza nodded.

Yes, great ghosts. In this time and place, loyalty and bonds of the living fall away. I understand that now, but when the great Dragonlord came, I realized there was some knowledge I had that might aid even the greatest of you. Iheard of the girl who was not yet dead. NoI heard that a muster was being taken, to fight these sixthings. There is more than resistance to be put up. There is a way to fight back.

She clenched a fist. Khelta raised her brows.

If you mean a weapon of Ailendamus we can bring to this world

No, great Majesty. I mean something else entirely. I am privy to a bit of knowledge about my great Kingdom, but far less than thosedirectly involved. Yet I knew enough. So when Great Xarkouth came, I journeyed to persuade one who could tell you all.

Thus, she came here. Listen, you arrogant fools of Chandrar. Listen.

Xarkouths head rose. The Great Knight Eclizzas eyes burned.

I died escorting one called the Wind Runner of Reizmelt to Ailendamus. She was a curious woman. A thief, or so the Duke Rhisveri of Ailendamus claimed. She had tried to steal a certain object, of whose worth even I was not aware until recently. His great treasure.

Erin Solstice choked. She knew? But Eclizza wasnt done.

No one living knows, save the Duke, who is, in fact, in control of Ailendamus. Who isnot a mortal man. I did not know this. He has an object of such worth that my death was a pittance to it, in his eyes! And I cannot help but agree! I tell you this now, as it is heard among Terandria. Yet Terandria has no agents in the mortal realm.

What is this Duke? Not a mortal man?

Xarkouths eyes glittered in dour amusement, and the ghosts of dead rulers looked offended. Yet for answer, Dame Eclizza only turned.

I did not know the answer, milady ghosts, Miss Solstice. I only knew who to ask.

She turned, and the last ghost approached, who had not ridden with Xarkouth. Who could not. Ghosts looked up and Khelta muttered an oath that shook the land slightly. Erin Solstices jaw opened wide, wide

No one living knew what Rhisveri possessed. Ryoka knew it was there. But even the Great Knights did not know. Yet the dead? Oh, the dead knew, and they were willing to talk.

Down, out of the skies, came a figure larger than Xarkouth. Beautiful, ghostly scales, deep eyes of power.

A Wyrm. He descended, as hostility rose from the ghosts below, but the Wyrm sneered, even at Xarkouth, though they were distant cousins.

So here are the fabled ghosts of Chandrar. Well, for this journey I roused myself, and I shall accept your gratitude.

He was not the oldest of his kind, or the grandest in death. But he had a temperament to match. Khelta called out, frowning at the arrogant Wyrm.

Who are you, Wyrm of Terandria?

Second-last of my spawn. Perhaps the last true Wyrms get in this world. Certainly, of the last male Wyrms. For the serpent who spawned me and my kin was the last, and our sisters died young. We grew, and fought, across age to age, but withered. The last of us were great, and Dragons feared us.

Hah.

Xarkouth muttered, but Erin was entranced by the Wyrm. He raised his head.

I am Calthusveri. Brother of the damned Rhisveri of Ailendamus, who masquerades as a man. I died eight hundred years ago when we fought. The last two of us, over my great treasure he now hoards. An artifact of such power that even you sneering ghosts of old would wet yourself at its name.

The sneering ghosts of old looked at the Wyrm. YetErin suddenly saw a flicker in even the oldests eyes. Could it actually be?

Do not delay, Calthusveri. What is so important a Dragonlord, Wyrm, and such ghosts risked their souls to cross the ocean once more to tell us of?

The Wyrm hesitated. Then his eyes grew crafty.

If I tell you, I would demand a favor in kind.

Not to use it.

Dame Eclizza interrupted hurriedly. The Wyrm snarled at her.

Silence, you little! Very well. I shall tell you, since it is more common knowledge. But I expect favors in kind! From this working, perhaps. It may all be realized, and we may all benefit if we use it right. Not that it will be easy to acquire. My brother will defend it with everything, yet I hear you have a nation you can spur to fight. So. Then.

He huffed, clearly regretting telling anyone. His eyes glittered as he glanced at Erin, but he did not care about her.

It is more valuable than a half-dead child. More than a way to talk with the living. After all, did I not acquire it from the deepest places, from the very fingers of legend? Was it not worth kin battling kin to the death for? Yes, each of you ghosts, one yet remains. One more! One of the greatest works ever created, by one who reached the zenith of magic!

The ghosts looked as the Wyrm raised his head and told them what Rhisveri was hiding. What Ryoka Griffin had nearly stolen. Erin Solstice couldnt believe it. It was unfair. It shouldnt exist.

But if you had a game. If you had levels, and classes, and Skillsyou also had this. At least one, from days so ancient even Dragons thought none remained. It would change everything. But who would use it?

A Scroll of Resurrection.

Authors Story: I bought one of those frozen deep dish pizzas which you can cook in an oven. Now the worst pizza type in the world to me.

I dont know if it was not cooked enough or sat out too long. It tasted fine, but my stomach started hurting as I was writing, live, at the end of my day. It got worse and worse, but I could not tell if it was back pain or stomach pain because they sometimes run together.

And I couldnt sit up straight. Then I had to lie down in the middle of writing and I couldnt even get up. I was fairly sure it was food poisoning and am now, but for three hours, the pain really sucked. As in, for the first time I was wondering if I was going to call an ambulance if I had to endure it much longer.

Ive never had pain from food poisoning that intense before, but after three hours it went away and I could handle moving and doing thingsnow its fine, as I type this. Hurts, but it wasnt I cannot move pain.

Thats my story. Its hour 4 of food poisoning and I have chills despite it being the same temperature as always. So whatever this chapter was, Im sure it was shorter. Nasty stuff. I have one more of those frozen pizzas left, but if I eat it, itll be charred.

The point is: I hate getting sick. This is pirateabas mini-story about food poisoning. Hope you didnt enjoy it.

Authors Note: I wrote that last around two days ago in torment. I have finished the chapter, but Im still a bit queasy even now. Certainly not at my best, but I got the chapter done because writing took my mind off the painwhen I could actually stand and sit. Book-authors dont tap out due to food poisoning, Im pretty sure, but this is the genuine web serial experience.

Hope for a healthier me next time. Thanks for reading.

Jaw of Zeikhal by Enuryn the /Enuryn_Nat