Book 8: Chapter 44: O

Book 8: Chapter 44: O

[I did another interview with the friendly Fantasy Inn! Check it out here!]

It was now time to ask questions, even if the answers were undesirable. Simple questions with answers like barbs, if you asked them right.

If you got truthful answers. Each one of them knew all the little lies, half-truths, omissions you could get. They also knew how to cut to the heart of truth and yank it out if they had to.

Did they want to?

Wall Lord Ilvriss of Salazsar had learned you could not buy truth. You could buy words, you could buy the answers you wanted, and have them shouted loudly, but truth? The closest you could get to that were experts. A kind of loyalty.

Who can we trust?

He murmured to himself. His audience of five, including himself, sat, thinking hard. More than that? Ilvriss was getting answersin part to that question. Answers hedidnt think he wanted.

Xesci, the [Courtesan of Change], was the kind of person who had all the answers by her very nature. She did notusuallygive them out since there was such a thing as confidentiality and client privilege, especially in her line of work. These circumstances dictated otherwise.

Im not a truth teller. So I cant tell you for certain, that just because I sense aa love, or certain things, that theyre not agents of the Necromancer.

She prefaced herself again. Nerul, Ilvriss uncle and [Diplomat] at the top of his class, wiped at his brow, slightly. He was sweating from a quick jaunt that had him climbing all the way down to the gates of Oteslia and back up to their higher mansion. He could have hired a sedan chair or the like, but that was too noticeable. He replied to Xesci.

Thats where we come in. Captain Osthia and I do the back-check. Income, suspicious visits, and so on. We have the diadem of whatever-the-hell for a final check. But we do need impressions, Miss Xesci. Sowhat have you learned?

Again, the Courtesan pulled a face. At last, Ilvriss stirred. The last member of their group did not. She was shaking slightly, curled up in a corner of the room. Shriekblade, or Tessa, depending on how she was feeling, was not in a good way of late.

I know you have reservations, Miss Xesci. But I swear on Salazsars walls, it will not leave this room.

Even as fantastic gossip material. My promise as well, on my tail.

Nerul added. Ilvriss glared at his uncle, but a [Diplomat] knew his targets, and Xesci smiled a bit, surprising Ilvriss.

Fair enough, Wall Lord Nerul. ThenI dont think your sister is an agent. Nor your mother, Wall Lord. Nor Magnolia Reinhart, the First Gardener, your Miss Marquinespecially not heror anyone on your Priority One list. Actually, my impression is that Magnolia Reinhart and Miss Marquin, and your sisterdefinitely not. I cant prove it, but thats my instinct.

Go on.

Ilvriss relaxed. He relaxed, and he didnt know how tense hed gotten. Nerul clapped his claws together.

What a relief. Start with my dear niece, who I would be very upset to learn was an undead puppet or conspirator. She does have absences and secrets

So does any Walled Drake. Why are you certain my mother and sister are safe, Miss Xesci? Can you elaborate?

They had to look into such things. Again, the [Courtesan] eyed Ilvriss.

There are some answers, Wall Lord, thatyou might not want to receive.

The purple-scaled Wall Lord blinked a few times. Nerul bit his lip and his tail curled up, but Ilvriss wasnt quite sure what Xesci meant. He got sure in moments.

I can see which face or likeness I would ah, take, if I were to work for a certain client. You know that. WellI have met those who have no face, or who are justodd. Thats a big hint. However, both of your family members have distinct people in minda range. Everyone does.

Ilvriss nodded, trying to block out Xescis own analysis of his childhood crushes, lovesNerul leaned forwards.

Just out of curiosity, whos mine?

Xesci glanced at him. Ilvriss groaned.

Uncle

I want to hear it.

Captain Osthia Blackwing muttered, then coughed as everyone looked at her. The Pallassian [Wing Captain], presumed dead and under the name of Captain Shieldscale, saw Nerul smile.

Ilvriss had asked Xesci already, so he knew her answer.

Charming women, Wall Lord Nerul. I could choose from nearly forty faces.

Ah, how appropriate. No one person?

A few. But that would be, ah, exoticism. I think. People youve met but never interacted with.

And you know this because?

I would have to improvise them naked. And I recognize a number of influential faces, even without being an expert on regional leaders.

Nerul started laughing. Ilvriss covered his eyes with one claw.

Can we return to my sister?

Absolutely, Wall Lord. Its simple. I ah, saw a number of faces in her minds eye, but one of the reasons I think she cant be an agent is simply that shethat is to say, some of my co-workers do know shes engaged their services. Privately.

Ilvriss face went blank. Xesci went on, as Captain Osthia glanced at Ilvriss and Nerul sat up, eying his nephew.

It would be good cover, but I somehow doubt a true puppet would maintain that kind of intimate

You happen to know these fellow workers? I have never heard of Navine ever visiting a brothel orit would be all over Salazsar!

Ilvriss protested. He was already uncomfortable with Xescis power in some ways. This? This had gone off the uncomfort waterfall and he was fighting discomfort sharks in the water.

Xesci was an expert of intimacy, and she winced. She had a very bland face on; the schemer she had been when she first met with Ilvriss. It helped her detach, and she claimed it made her smarter, if ruthless. There was still enough of her to look awkward on his behalf.

Im sorry, Wall Lord. But I did see a number of figures, so it indicates she could only be a double-agent.

Which we can investigate. So thats instinct and knowledge for you. Anything we should know?

Uncle.

No, he has a point. Wall Lord, I know this is difficult, but anything relevant, Xesci?

Osthia gave Ilvriss a pleading look. He had to stand up and walk over their private, secured rooms to pour himself a drink. Not wine; he had meetings to go to later and he was off the stuff. But he wondered if you could do something similarjust to drown out sensation. Distilled plum and lemon juice, no sugar, maybe. Hed ask for some made up.

No one I know. Rather handsome Gnolls, Drakes, even a Humanthat would be my co-worker. And uhtwo female Drakes.

The spray out of Ilvriss nose-holes and mouth made Tessa roll out of the way reflexively. He turned, coughing.

What?

Ah. Uncomfortable secrets. Dont lets get on the Turnscale wagon, nephew. We have bigger fish to kick.

Nerul wagged a claw. Ilvriss shook his head.

Im not about tI justNavine?

I told you there were answers you didnt want to hear, Wall Lord. Your mother

Xesci looked even more uncomfortable. This time Nerul and Ilvriss traded a look.

Er, Miss Xesci. For my nephews sake, if its a matter of delicate

No! Not in that way.

Ilvriss breathed again. Xesci paused.

She just doesnt have Wall Lord Zail in her mind. Someone else. A Drake. Multiple ages. Perhaps deceased? A lover? Er

She watched as Ilvriss slowly rubbed at his eyes.

Were going to have to look into this, arent we?

Ill handle it. Just give me a description, or better yetpose with the face so I can do a rough check. Ill do it later.

Nerul murmured. Ilvriss sat back down, heavily. After that opening salvo into finding allies and uncovering Azkerashs minions, he thought nothing would surprise him.

Right up until Xesci told him why she was almost convinced Lyonette was genuinely non-Azkerash.

A what?

Captain Osthia shouted. Xesci lifted a claw.

Two things. It is not strong. Not in anintimate way. First loves. I would be hesitant to look like that. It makes it too much like cheating on someonewith a copy of them. But she does like thisAntinium. A Worker, I think?

An Antinium.

Ilvriss was least-surprised of all of them. Which still meant shocked. Xesci gave him a helpless nod.

It is surprising, but this is personal, something unconscious, Wall Lord. Its the fourth Antinium Ive seen.

Fourth?

Well, hers was the most accurate, I believe. The others wereI would call it a very specific desire.

For what? Insects?

Or being frightened. Someones deepest fantasy can be a terrifying, albeit safe, encounter with somethingnot quite like a person? Ive seen Goblins, Golems, even a Creler, the King of Destructionfame is populartwo of the four I saw were actually of the one they call the Small Queen, Xrn, and the askers were both male.

Please stop talking.

Ilvriss felt like he was going to die. He shifted focus.

I doubt theres much chance Navine or Lyonette could be puppets with that kind of imaginative backstory. Can we go to the Gardener?

Of course, Wall Lord. Youll be glad to understand her desires are standard.

Wonderful.

A bit colorful in one of the images I could have chosen as a fantasy. She apparently met a rather splendid Minotaur, in a bath-house or something, because I

Next.

Ah. Magnolia Reinhart, then. Shes harder to read, as [Ladies] are, but her maid, butler, and so on all had people in their desires. Itscomplicated.

How so?

Ilvriss just wanted to know if they were monsters in disguise. Xesci hesitated.

The [Butler] loves someone whos dead. I can tell. They tend to be idealized. Captured in a particular pose or dress. The maid

Ressa. Former Assassins Guild.

Shes simpler. A number, including Lady Reinhart herself. Im not sure if thats love or desire. However, Lady Reinhart?

Yes?

I could do someone attractive to her, certainly. But the face of the real person she wants isimpossible. Id fail. I could become himbut Id still be wrong. And I dont know why.

The [Courtesan] frowned. Professional pride appearing for the first time. She was reluctant to divulge these deep, intimate secrets, but she did. Ilvriss sat up.

Please, explain. Could that mean?

Oh, no. I know who she loves. It would be that fellowI saw him in the scrying orb. Grand Magus Eldavin.

Really. That explains a lot. If I could use this, Salazsar would be able to confirm a number of intelligence hypotheses thatsorry, sorry. Secret.

Nerul sat back as Xesci gave him a look. Ilvriss frowned.

Thats not too unusual.

Xesci nodded patiently.

Yes, Wall Lord. But I have an instinct beyond mere Skill, because I am good at my job. If I presented myself to her, I feel as though I would still fail to capturesomething. Something is wrong with that image, yet it is right. Does that make sense?

No.

It doesnt to me, either. Shesa challenge. Although Im not likely to find out why.

Well. It seems as though theyre at least not undead puppets. Have you found anyone who matches that?

Xesci hesitated.

One. But it could just be a lack of loves or someone who really doesnt care. Not high-ranking, but I will pass you the name

Nerul rubbed his claws together, nodding. Ilvriss leaned back in his chair to process what he really didnt want to think about in some cases. He only looked up when Nerul spoke.

Hm, Uncle?

I said, which one do we reach out to first, nephew? Id put money on Reinhart. Risky, given who she is, but you said she intimated she was an ally.

The Wall Lord hesitated.

We need to run more checks on movements, connections

On Reinhart? Hah. Tell you what, Ill do my best work, get Blackwing to help me, and pull in all of Salazsars intelligence. Well come back to you in a year with squat. The First Gardeners probably just as bad. A Calanferian [Princess]? Well only trace her back to Izril, not before.

True. But we cant make a mistake.

Nerul fixed Ilvriss with a keen, perceptive eye.

Nephew. You already took a chance with the three of us.

He gestured at Shriekblade, himself, and Xesci.

Its time to take action. We need allies. It could go bad, but now is not the time to sit. Not now. Not with the Gnolls boiling mad and threatening a war we cant sustain. For the Antinium or the Necromancer. Someone needs to be caught up.

Ilvriss knew he was right. He rubbed at his face, then nodded. And then looked at Nerul.

Theyd all heard the news, even under siege in Oteslia. It was complicating an already complicated affair with Magnolia Reinhart, and his own mission. Ilvriss met Neruls eyes directly.

Tell me something. Did you know about this, Uncle?

Nerul gave him a clear look which could have held a million lies. Yet he did shake his head.

No, Ilvriss. I didnt have a clue. Nor would anyone with half a brain have told me, given my job. Mind you, I might have found outbut I didnt know. The question is: did anyone in Salazsar? Did you?

Ilvriss saw Osthias gaze swing back to him. She had no knowledge. He frowned.

No. But then, even for a Wall Lord, Im younger. I wonder if my father would have access to that kind of information? He would be the only one in the family. But we do know Fissivals always loved magicore.

Along with any number of magical items. Well, its a mess. And I cant envy whomevers sent to calm the Gnolls down, if anyone. Bloody idiots might just escalate and that will not go well. Theres little respect for [Diplomats] among High Commands.

Nerul grumbled. Ilvriss raised his brows.

Do you actually think you could do something, Uncle? What about the siege?

The army outside? Of course! Mind you, Zeres Admiralty is smart. Theyd run if I walked at them. They know a shark in the waters. Lets stay focused. Allies and Necromancers. Where do we start first?

Ilvriss thought about it. He glanced left, and smelled and saw Tessa lean over and vomit onto the carpet. She collapsed into the puddle and lay there, curled up. In the silence, Ilvriss gestured.

Probably with her.

Why is she sick?

Wall Lord Ilvriss asked that question to three [Healers], all of whom had no idea. Wellone never got a chance to investigate Shriekblade. She came round, slashed with her claws across the poor Gnolls face, and sent the [Healer] screaming fora [Healer].

Adventurer Tessa. You will collect yourself.

Ilvriss snapped, as Osthia wrestled Tessa back to their coach. The scarred Drake turned her head and gave him a stare like a wall had sprouted eyes.

Im Shriekblade.

Shriekblade, then. What is wrong?

Shes gone. Shes gone. I have to go get her. Im never going to be okay again. Shes gone. Shesgoneshesgoneshesgone

She was having some kind of breakdown, like a [Soldier] fighting a horror for the first time. Ilvriss looked at Osthia, but the other Drake had it.

Do you meanthe Healer of Tenbault?

Tessa looked up. She shot to her feet.

Yes. I have to go get her. Im leaving.

With that, she began to try to commandeer the coach. Osthia stopped her. Tessa kicked her across the street, and Ilvriss jumped for the coach. Cursing, he fought with Shriekblade and got her to stopmainly because she collapsed halfway through trying to claw out his eyes.

No. Shes already dead. Goblins are killing and eating and raping her. Shes dead and Im not going to ever be me again.

She lay there as Osthia caught up with Ilvriss. He looked at his helper. Shriekblade was their ace in the hole, the one genuinely high-level deterrent against a traitor. They needed her better, as callous as it was to ignore her own distress. But how? Damn. Goblins?

Ilvriss had a sinking suspicion it might be connected to a lot of events. But for now, he wrestled Tessa back into the coach and began to hunt for a temporary cure to what ailed her.

So, feeling any side-effects? Are you alright?

As they partied out the night in Oteslia, Mirn, the [Protector] of Pallass secret bar, a Sentry as they called him, former [Soldier], and friend to Saliss of Lightsand Onieva, asked a question that really cut down on his personal enjoyment of the night.

Such as there was to be had with a bunch of horny, silly kids like Cire and his friends. Some were interesting, like Lyonette for instance, but Mirn had come for Onieva.

She gave him a long look.

Nope.

Well, be careful. I know youre on a high after so long, but dont lose track of the time! And be careful what you put in your body!

Mirn. Mirn, you are the last person I want to hear that from.

Oneiva laughed as she followed the group down the street. Mirn rolled his eyes, tail curling.

Youre the one who told me to be careful!

In truth, Onieva shouldnt have been out there at all. She should have tested the new, faerie-flower substitute for her potion, but Mirn understood shed been desperate. So shed taken it. It had worked perfectlyand would probably be a huge upset in the alchemical world and all that, once Saliss returned.

The problem was that Onieva was clearly deliriously happy, and thus, incautious. Mirn had to be the one to watch out for complications. And there were going to be some.

What are the side effects?

Excuse me?

Saliss gave Mirn a look as he prepared the vial. Hed taken one drop as a taste, sworn a blue streak, and told Mirn his crazy hypothesis about the changing, convenient nature of the Faerie Flowers was right.

It means this stuff is adapting to what it does, and Xif and I and all the idiots trying to make it into something are effectively gutting its usefulness, Mirn. Ill write him a note and get the others to stopafter I take this.

I got that. But what do you mean, side effects? Did you sense any?

Saliss just snorted.

I dont need to, even if I could. Mirn, I did my research. Faerie Flower drinks that make you go back in time and dream true-ish dreams, but lead to incredible depression or dependancy. Glory drinks that make you cry buckets. Soporific smoke and so on. Theyre tricky flowers. Theres always a catch. I dont doubt that fertilizer composite does something too. Maybe it makes anything it grows allergens or something. So when I take thisI need you to look out for me.

The Sentry folded his arms.

And do what, exactly?

Make sure it doesnt wear off when Im out there. Make sure to test whether its doing anything to my head. Memory, and so on. And most importantly

Avoid a scene.

Mirn repeated the instructions. Onieva rolled her eyes.

Please, Mirn. When do I cause a scene?

Ill stomp on your tail, you Wyvern-bitch. Dont pretend youve forgotten how many bars fights you cause every time you go out.

She laughed and danced ahead of him, spreading her arms and swinging around in a wide circle. It caught the attention of Lyonette and the others.

Mirn! Im so glad youre here. This is going to be a good night!

Thats right! I told you they were sort of Archmage!

A shout from the rambunctious teen, the leader, Cire himself. The others cheered and Mirn felt his head beginning to ache. That was the beginning of a long night.

Am I old, now?

It was a terrible thing to think. Because, Mirn felt, if you had to ask, you already knew the answer. He reminded himself that he was younhe wasnt technically young, but he was far from aged! He wasnt at his middle yearsy-yet.

He had no back pain. He was a former [Soldier] who had kept his levels, and knew what the hell Archmage meant. Mirn might not be able to do a backflip like Onieva, who promptly astounded the skeptical kids, but he could still march forty damn miles with armor and packs.

Probably.

The thing wasnt his disabilities, it was his ability towell, run around. Mirn was a one-bar Sentry. Literally. Sometimes that bar moved, but it was because someone was literally kicking down the door. He had forgotten that fun involved hitting eight places in one night, mostly because you kept getting kicked out of them.

Weve got a real [Lady] with us, so everyone behave! Lets show Lionette a good time, since I finally got her to come with us!

Cire crowed, oblivious to how that made Lyonette start. He was turning up the charm, but hed forgotten that alcohol adjusted all the dials.

Well, he had something. Mirn saw someone hurry into the pub, which had wisely given them an outdoor table, and come back with an Oteslian rye. Naturally, Oteslia was an expert at brewing all kinds of alcohols. Every city had their specialty, and Zeres had a lot of foreign imports. Pallass could hold its own as could Fissival, because of alchemical or magical drinks.

But if you ever wanted to stare at a row of two hundred different beers and then walk to the ale category in massive breweriesthis was the place.

Mirn had no desire to do that. He served two dozen kinds of drinks, max. His clientele wanted alcohol, and if he had any, that was good. In that sense, Mirn was a terrible [Bartender]; he had about three levels in the class.

But he was a damned good Sentry, so what he saw was everything.

Lets see. Eighteen to mind. That ones already drowning, that ones on somethingthe rest are rather fine.

Mirn was actually surprised. One was clearly as drunk as a Sariant Lamb alcoholicand the little things did have a drinking problem, which was hilariousbut the rest werent in over their heads.

Ratherhe eyed them. Something about a few of Cires gang of friends gave Mirn a vaguely odd sensation, but he didnt parse it fully. He was a bit distracted.

Damn. He is handsome.

He is, isnt he? If only he had ten years. And his head out of his tail.

Onieva took down a beer as the others egged each other on. Cire promptly had to copy that, and two of his friends. Mirn eyed Cire. It was hardnot to.

He was far too young, but now Mirn understood why people followed him about. He was young, but everything that was perfect about being young. Not a scale out of place, and Mirn was sure Cire had no idea about scale creams or tonics that some of his friends and clientele used. Some things were just unfair. Even his scales and eyes set him apart; there were bronze Drakes, or ones with copper-colorations, or brown.

Few had a meld of colors like his. Not Lizardfolk. Not Drakes. Well, staring at handsome kids was not his job, so Mirn went back to watching Onieva.

And Lyonette. Andwell, it was interesting.

Whoo! Hey, Utasen, why are you looking sick? Were just getting started!

Cire laughed. A new friend, whose name he somehow already knew, looked appalled.

You just took down four beers!

They werent small tankards, either. Mirn sniffed at his drink. Not spiked or worse than anything; it had a pleasant scent, and he tasted it and guessed it was corn? Too light for him, but tasty.

Even so. Cire didnt even wobble as he spun around on one foot to show how fine he was. By contrast, his Drake friend looked wobbly.

Everyone knows Cires got two holes in his boots.

One of the female Drakes put in dryly. Cire laughed and held up his boots. Lyonette sipped her beer, refusing to take it down fast. Mirn saw Onieva spin a tankard around and wink at Lyonette.

You wont hang with this crowd if you cant hold your liquor. But why the hell are you all wasting good beers?

So saying, she gulped down half of her drink with about the same effect. Cires brows rose as Onieva finished off her tankard. Mirn rolled his eyes.

Onieva, dont bully them.

Oh? Can she hold her water? Look at these old crabs.

Old crabs?

Onieva reached out to a sniggering Gnoll and slapped his shoulder so hard he fell out of his seat, much to the amusement of others. She looked around.

Ill have you know that I could drink all of you under the table.

Oooh.

Cire grinned and Mirn shook his head. He had no idea, but Onieva, even without turning on her complete immunity to alcohol, was still resistant. She had trouble getting drunk.

Hey! Pull out a Firebreath! Lets take some shots.

So soon?

That came from both Lyonette and Raef, the Gnoll sitting next to her. The young man grinned as Mirn tried to kick Onieva. He got a stinging retort to his shin and swore, holding it.

You dont like spirits, Miss Lionette? Can I call you Lionette?

Raef leaned over, smiling with his teeth. Lyonette copied him, showing no unease. She did hold herself with a kind of dignified reserve. Mirn eyed her as a bottle was brought out by a [Server], who demanded payment in advance. Cire scattered gold coins on the table with a promise of more to come.

Little brat. That was the First Gardeners son, alright. Mirn watched as he took down a shot of the famous Drake whiskey with Onieva and two others. They were going to be in trouble soon.

I dont usually drink, actually. Im around alcohol a lot, but Ive worked as aa [Server].

Really?

Raefs eyebrows rose. Hegave Lyonette a look. Mirn raised his own brows. Wasnt she supposed to be a [Princess]? That was what Chaldion had told him while he briefed Mirn for this odd mission. Chaldion had told him Lyonette wasnt as important as Saliss, obviously.

Yes. But tonights a night to have fun, so Im trusting Cire to show me the ropes.

Lyonette smiled, and the young Drake burped, realized she was talking to him, and went back to playing the good host of the event, a bit abashed.

Clever girl. Mirn nodded along, and realized two things. He did have experience in watching drinkers, and there was a difference between them.

When you had alcohol, how you drank it revealed something about your personality. A clue, at least.

Young peopleof which Mirn felt a growing disconnection withdrank a lot. Infamously, but it wasnt without purpose. Their consumption waxed and waned. It was social, and so they had competitions, or imbibed a lot when the excitement dictated it. Their goal was to have fun, and so they went for a night of fun that might end up with them head-first in a pile of their own vomit, but not necessarily.

By contrast, if you looked at Onieva, or Mirn himself, or, interestingly here, two of the young friends of Cire, they took over the whiskey and drank it down fast. No savoring it, or even the need for snacks. It was practiced. They had something like water or a juice along with the shots, or mixed it in. They werent excited by the prospect of drinking; they knew exactly what they wanted.

Calmly, each one took down enough to obscure reality for a bit. Make them stop thinking. It was cynical drinking, in a way. You didnt need other people for it and sometimes you preferred that.

What was odd was that Onieva and Mirn should know how to do it, but why would Raef and those two drink like that? An odd personality trait in younger generations. But Raef calmly poured himself a double shot and took it down without blinking, much to Mirn and Lyonettes astonishment.

Mirn himself tried that, and had to reach for a pitcher of water. Nope, it wasnt diluted. So there were three people here with constitutions of steel!

The last kind of drinker was just Lyonette, incidentally. Lyonette alone. Someone who didnt actually drink that much due to her upbringing, and had been told by well-intentioned idiots that it was a social thing, to be done at banquets and smaller events, but completely missed the context of it all.

Especially because this was the first time Lyonette had really been able to kick back with peers, not run a business or be responsible for a child. She was a small minnow in deep waters, and someone had just spiked the pond with rum. Mirn watched her as she experienced the joys of social drinking, perhaps for the first time.

Raef, or, as she was behind the illusion, Rafaemaof Manus, watched Lyonette with about as much keenness as Cire. More so because Cire was caught up in a competition with the odd Drake woman who had invited herself along.

The male Drake was quieter, the responsible guardian. That was fine. Rafaema was focused on Lyonette. The trouble was

Was she lying to Raef already? She claimed she was used to working. Which wasnt a [Princess] thing at all.

Ferris claimed she worked at the inn. Maybe she actually did? Or she saw it as work.

In her way, the Dragon was as world-weary as Mirnand she had four times his lifespan to amplify her views. She was not here to party like Cireand she saw how much he had to drink to bypass his own natural immunities to alcohol. Even Onieva began to fall behind just due to the sheer quantity he could imbibe, which would explode a lesser Drakes stomach.

Still. Onieva was odd, as well as Mirn. Rafaema had a feeling about thembut it could wait. For the moment, she was doing something unpleasant for her city. Which, to judge by the news coming out of the Meeting of Tribes, was as Drake as you could get.

Those damned idiots. We dont need a war with Gnolls! Did Luciva know about this? How am I going to fix it? What else have they

Its the cities. Its always the cities. Everyone asks why we fucking hate the walls and the boots. Its stuff like that.

One of the non-actor Gnolls began growling as that very conversation came up. Cire turned, looking a bit uncomfortable.

Hey, thats Fissival. Fissival is totally Creler eggs, Rox. Oteslias okay. Id know about them doing anything bad.

Just because your mothers the First Gardener, Cire? Hah! Theyre all evil. You dont know. Youre a Drake.

Hey now. Dont bring us down, dude. Lets not monk about on boring stuff.

That had to be an actor. Raef rolled his eyes as a Gnoll cut in, fur dyed strategically, ushering them to another bar. On the way, Raef leaned over to Lyonette.

What do you think about the Meeting of Tribes thing, Lyonette?

Me? Ohits terrible. One supposes they have their reasons, though. Cire! I believe you wouldnt do anything that terrible. You do know a lot about Oteslia, dont you?

Raef frowned as Lyonette went over to console Cire, who cheered up.

Thats right, Lionette! I do! And if Id heard about that gemstone or whatever, I would have had someone go dig it up.

You can do that?

I mean, probably, yeah. I could probably get the Pegasus Fliers to do that.

Rafaema frowned at Cire, who was bragging too hard. And at Lyonette, who was clearly interested in Cire. Genuinely?

She hadnt drunk much. Rafaema glanced around, then, as they headed to the next bar, suggested a round.

Lets all take a shot to Fissival sticking its fat tail into an ant hive!

The others cheered at that, and Rafaema saw Lyonette protest. Cire, laughing, offered her a shot and she sipped at it, then reluctantly took it down.

So, Lionette, where are you fr

Raef headed over to Lyonette, as the others began to dance or drink or grab snacks and bother the other clientele. It was turning into a damned party and Cire knew everyone. But this time Onieva got in the way.

Youre looking a bit unsteady. You can say no, you know? Come on. Do you know how to dance?

The [Princess] shook her head, eyes determinedly clear.

I can. And Im having fun, Onieva, thank you. Im actually a quite decent dancer.

Onieva raised a single brow, mockingly.

Saliss told me all about your ballroom dancing. But thats not dancing. Come on. Mirn, get over here and lets have fun!

Dead gods, Onieva

Again, Lyonette was spirited away and Rafaema cursed. A party? Why had she thought that was a good idea? It was, in fact, the worst way to get Lyonette to spill anything. Even if she was drunk

Hey, Raef. Stop getting in my way! Those two crabs are bad enough, but Im trying to impress Lionette!

Shut up, Cire.

Raef glowered, watching Onieva and Mirn actually join in quite proficiently. At least they were acting their age, or not hiding it, rather. The other actors hiding their true ages and pretending to enjoy shaking it out in the bar, or laughing?

She hated it. He had to see it. Rafaemas lip curled. Cire was already away, catching up with some friends.

He did see it. Or else why did he always gravitate towards the genuinely younger crowd, letting his group follow him around? It might be unconscious, but it was there. Raef leaned back, plotting her next move.

Two more pubs they hit, and each time Mirn calmly advised Lyonette to take a glass of something else because she was overdoing it, or Onieva took over the event. She was here to have funand apparently get in Rafaemas way. However, the Dragon noticed something interesting as Mirn yanked Onieva aside after she headed to the restroom. They whispered for a second and Rafaema glanced up from watching Cire and Lyonette flirt.

and whats eight times sixty three?

Dead gods, Mirn. I dontfive hundred and four, okay? Who wrote that crap?

Saliss did.

Well, I hate him. What else?

Whats the key component of healing potions?

Eir gel. Basic faculties are all here! No side effects, okay?

Mirn nodded. Rafaema glanced over. Onieva knew Saliss of Lights? Right, she was his cousin. Interesting, though. And interesting how she was as intoxicated as Cire and Rafaema.

Which was to say, not at all. Lyonette, even Mirn and the other actors were all feeling it, but Onieva had an inexhaustible amount of energy. Maybe she was a [Social Drunkard], or some class that turned this kind of thing into power? It fit the socialite. Rafaema nodded to herselfright up until the street fight.

What? Someones doing what?

A Drake was talking to Cire, plucking at the young mans arm.

In broad daylight! I meanwhatever, Cire. We were just walking along and they told us to clear the street.

And did you?

Do we look like Lizards? Course not! We were about to really get into it, yknow, but they said wed settle this tonight. Theres eleven of us and thirteen of them. Come on, can you bring some of your group?

Cire hesitated as Rafaema and some of his minders heads turned. He was bright-eyed with excitement, but he did waver.

I dunno, Lotse. Im showing this Human aroundLionette

She can watch! Come on, Cire.

The Drake girl was definitely not an actor, and she and some Drakes were asking him toRafaema scooted over.

Whats this, Cire?

Someone tried to bully friends of mine. I dunno, Lotse, Ive got a reputation to worry about

Thats right. Cire, were here to have fun. Lets uhlets go get some snacks. On me!

A Gnoll emphasized the words, glancing around for backup, but Lotse grabbed Cires arm as the Drake began to backpeddle.

Cire! Were begging you. Are we friends or not?

The Earth Dragons eyes turned back. His expression clearedthen took on an obstinate cast that Rafaema didnt like.

Of course we are. Ill come with you.

No, Cire

The Gnoll grabbed for Cire, but the Earth Dragon prised off the paws with casual strength.

Ill just duck out for a second. Come on, Lotse. Twelve against thirteens fine. Well just

He glanced at Raef, but the Dragon just folded her arms.

You want backup?

If you want to come, Raef? What, you too good for it?

Rafaema ignored the goading words. She had trained with a sword and she doubted Cire was trained in anything except how to hit a toilet bowl when sick. She had killed someone, just this week.

Im not fighting your battles. Nor should you.

She emphasized the words. Cire just made a face at her.

Theyre my friends, RafaeI mean, Raef. You never leave your friends when they need you. Come on, Lotse. Shes Creler-brained.

Who?

The Drake blinked at Raef. Cire hurried her off.

He. Whatever.

Rafaema was going to kick him again for being so stupid. She sat there, growling, and glanced at Lyonette who was free. The Gnoll actor was sounding a quiet alarm and four of the others hurried out of the bar, cursing. Rafaema had a clear shot at Lyonette. She stood there, cursingthen went after Cire.

Not for his safety, but for anyone he tangled with.

Maybe for his safety. He was a Dragon, but he was still

It was a fast fight, so Rafaema arrived when it was one minute into it, and thus almost a third over. She watched, coming to a halt in the shadows as a smaller crowd watched two dozen mostly-Drakes brawling.

They caught her up on the unique properties of the Faerie Flowers later. Lyonette shook her head.

You mean, by trying to find out their properties

We have now created nearly a thousand bad combinations with them. Which means anything based off of those formulas is probably gone too. As it stands, we have a flower thats a powerful fertilizer, sleeping agent, painkiller, drink additivenow we have to figure out what can be made thats not ruined by Xifs hard work.

For all that, Saliss didnt appear as annoyed as Lyonette expected him to be. If anything, he was more focused and less annoying than usual. He turned to Lyonette.

Whats the first thing to do? I promised Wilovan and Ratici Id stay with you.

Well, looking into the killers after me would be my first step

And theyre doing it. Id advise you not to get in their way.

Lyonette bit her lip, but she accepted that with a curt nod.

Then, Mrsha. I have a number of people to petition.

Alright, then.

That was how Lyonette found herself sitting and sipping tea with Magnolia Reinhart.

Why she paid a visit to Wall Lord Ilvriss, who had also requested to meet Saliss of Lights on behalf of the sickly, shivering, shaking Shriekblade.

And the reason why the [Druids] of Oteslia heard her, in their Circle. From Nalthaliarstrelous to Shassa, because she knew Mrsha, and Drakes and Gnolls she had never met. Even a Beastkin.

All to answer the one question that mattered. Not who was after her, not even, at this moment, how to cure Erin Solstice. Her only question:

How can I save my daughter?

There was so much power here, represented in individual people and groups. The only problem was that Oteslia was under siege.

And that Lyonette had nothing to offer them. Oh, she had many things, but very little herself. Very little tangibly.

They knew it, too. They knew her. That was what shocked Lyonette.

A [Princess] of Calanfer begs our help for one of our kin.

The first [Druid] spoke from where he sat, a single eye fixing on her, his large eyes gleaming behind brown, leathery skin. Lyonette had expected grey, if at all. She did not know the [Druids] number included those from Baleros, the rare Beastkin tribes.

Nor had she ever met one of them like this. Hawk was ordinary, a Rabbit Beastkin compared to

At first she had thought he was almost like stone, so unmoving and still. Yet stone did not have horns; a pair, one larger, one smaller. What was so strange was that despite being Beastkin, adopting more humanoid characteristics, he could walk on all fours or upright.

Rhinoceros Beastkin. The others sat in silence, letting each speak. One sat in the midst of an actual stream of water, a waterfall in miniature, which somehow gave Lyonette the impression the Drowned Man was not being struck by the water, but enveloped in it.

Nalthaliarstrelous himself sat with Shassa, the [Spiderweb Druid], far enough away that the nest in her staff didnt bother him. He was rubbing at the head of a creature, trimming very gently the horns of a Corusdeer, young, not yet adult, who had an overgrowth of the horn.

A child. She has the class, but children have many classes.

Do you discount her as one of us for age?

That came from a Gnoll making a cairn of stones. In their inner sanctum in Oteslia, Lyonette had been surprised to see hundreds of [Druids], some on patrol for cruelty. Others growing food or plants. Some tending to animals.

They were not all alike. If Nalthaliarstrelous represented their most warlike aspect, some of these [Druids] were clearly peaceful, like Shassa had been. Others walked hand-in-hand with the politics of Oteslia.

They knew who she was. She gulped.

Myidentity is known to you, [Druids] of Oteslia?

There was no point in denying the truth. Nor would it have been wise. Nalthaliarstrelous snorted.

Even if you dyed your hair, Lionette Solstice, it would have been obvious. You hide your class, and name, but not nature. Your aura reeks of Terandria.

The [Princess] colored; she had considered it was difficult to conceal her identity, but it was another thing to be so casually revealed. The leader of the [Druids] was not the Rhino Beastkin, but a Drake, fairly fittingly.

She sat on a hovering basket of soil in the air, a levitating plant growing up there, roots reaching down to basins of water placed to feed them. A naturally levitating plant? She pruned it carefully, flicking bugs down for a giant mouse-thing to eat. It reminded Lyonette of Apista, because the rodentfully six times larger than your standard ratwas too intelligent. It was in the eyes.

Your identity is known to us, Lyonette du Marquin. Rest assured, we will not reveal it. We are not part of Oteslias plans. However, the concerns of [Druids] still exist. You would have us do what?

Send [Druids]. Or just one to find my daughter. Bring her here. I know it is in your power.

Lyonette looked directly at Nalthaliarstrelous when she said that. The [Druid] snorted.

And kill those who pursue her.

She is a child.

Yes. And we are no enemies of the Tribes.

Then youd let her die? Shes done nothing wrong!

Lyonette saw Nalthals eyes flash, and movement flickered around the Circle. It was the Drowned Man under the waterfall who spoke, his voice like Seborns.

We make no war on Roshal. Injustice exists and we choose our battles. If you asked us ten thousand years ago, when there were many times our number, you would have a different answer, Princess Marquin. From other circles, different as well.

This one asks for what gain do we move, when you might well find your aid in similar allies.

Shassa spoke nervously, glancing at Nalthal. Lyonette looked at him too, and thought of her second meeting of that day, with Magnolia Reinhart. The Human [Druid] scowled at Shassa. He must have told them a lot. But he was clearly not happy with the decision. Proof positive: him kicking Shassa in the stomach.

However, the Circle was a vote, or so it seemed. Lyonette tried again.

If you would intercede, just to help her?

Miss Marquin. What could you offer us? Everything is a trade, and we do not forswear our pacts. Let us say we gave you our aid. Perhaps you resolve everything peacefully, in safety. In the worst case? We defend our sister, child or not. We might die like mayflies, but we will honor our words. For what would we weigh the lives of many [Druids] and our kin here with a single one of us?

Another nod, from a Gnoll.

If it seems callous, simply count how many lives are weighed on either choice, Lyonette of Calanfer. Betimes that is simply what we must do. Or did you not see the grim necessity wrought at Liscor by Druid NathaleNathelireDruid Nalthal?

She had come to a too-practical group. Lyonette bit her lip.

If you know I am a [Princess] of Calanferthen would you accept a promise on behalf of the kingdom?

She was willing to sign a lot she had no right to. But the [Druids] just snorted.

Were you [Queen], we would consider it. Yet Calanfer lost its forests and sanctuaries. Lost it and clung to their Eternal Throne. Calanfer has little good will with us, Lyonette du Marquin. The actions of your predecessors have done much to harm us.

Not me.

The [Princess] defended herself. To that, Nalthal laughed nastily. He flicked a shaving of Corusdeer antler at her.

Of course not. But we remember. That is how it works. No aid will come from us. Begone and waste neithers time.

His eyes lingered on her.

Go. Sometimes you must do what is necessary yourself. Seize it, [Princess] of Calanfer. You cannot ask others to fight your wars forever.

Of course, he was right. Lyonette laid out her second case to Magnolia Reinhart after they finally got to the heart of the discussion. She had no idea why Magnolia had segued into Grand Magus Eldavin.

She was sweating as she tried to sip from her tea. The first part of their conversation had gone well, but Lyonette was keenly aware she was outmatched, if Magnolia Reinharts aura didnt prove that itself.

In Skill, experience, auraMagnolia Reinhart was renowned as the bloodless warlady of the north. The Deadly Flower. Well, she was bloody enough in the past, but her ability to make deals was the stuff they told stories about.

Curiously, she had not swept Oteslia with backdeals, threats, or grand, covetous deals as of yet. If anything, Lyonette had considered her presence in Oteslia as inoffensive as possible, especially at the ball shed attended.

I would only need a small favor, Lady Reinhart. I would, of course, repay it many times over.

Indeed, Miss Lyonette? Or is it Lionette? Do forgive me, I forgot to clarify which it was. We must keep up appearances. AlthoughI would have personally changed more than a single letter on my passport.

Lyonette will do, Lady Reinhart.

The [Lady] smiled as Lyonette flushed. The [Princess] resolved not to let it shake her. She met Magnolias gaze.

You know my daughter is in grave danger. From the Plains Eye tribe and others. I do not think you are heartless, Lady Reinhart. The [Druids] areout of necessity, they claim. But you could give me a small escort. A few favors. All I would need is

She hesitated. Lady Reinhart helpfully filled the gap.

My carriage. Which I presume you would ride out of Oteslia, with, perhaps, Reynold driving it? Two [Maids]? I can well imagine it might break Zeres cordon. You do know Liscors army has joined them? Well, even combined, if Reynold got up to speed, they could not catch him.

Lyonette nodded slowly.

And once I had my daughter, I could bring her to safety.

Indeed. Along the way, would you, by any chance, out of, oh, necessity, be forced to run over any Gnolls of the largest tribe in the world with my rather famous and noticeable coach? Or kill Drakes if any got in your way?

The [Princess] did not respond. Magnolia Reinhart pretended to pluck lint off her dress. Ressa produced a duster and flicked it over her arm. The [Lady] gave her [Maid] a long look. Ressa smiled politely.

In my hour of delicate negotiations, Miss Lyonette, bloodshed is not desirable.

But

Magnolia lifted a finger.

I told you, Miss Mrsha departed the city she was last in, in the company of Sellme, if what the Gnolls hunting her are shouting can be believed. I am not sure this is for the best, although it makes tracking her harder than this other white Gnoll. He moved objectionably fast.

Lyonette sat up. Magnolia went on, scowling.

If that child is as bright as I am led to believe, she will slip away if her captors are that. If not? If the chance arises in any city they are in, my people will try to escort her to safety. But they do not know where she is. We believe she is in a number of cities near the one she fled from, but the hunters are searching every person on the road.

Then you do have people looking for her.

Lyonette whispered. Magnolia Reinhart glanced up.

My dear. If this was the north, they would have already delivered her to you and I would be claiming my ransom inwhat would I ask for, Ressa?

Probably cake and ice cream.

Ah, that would be like me. But I do not have asmanyagents in the south. I am not inclined to lend you my carriage unless the need arises.

Thank you. Thank you.

Lyonette whispered. The lack of resistance was like a balm on a burn. But Magnolia Reinhart waved it away.

Miss Marquin, it is I who must thank you for being rather charming. At the ball, you know? Being a gracious visitor with a number of Drakes who have every reason to dislike you is rather difficult and I am not exerting my, ah, more pressing charms. Shall we talk about what you might do for me, in the interim you are here, under this lovely siege? Very refreshing. No boulders crashing down around us, no arrows, no rationing as of yetI quite think we should copy it in the north.

The young woman hesitated.

Naturally, Lady Reinhart. But if Mrsha is found

I assure you, Miss Marquin. If you have the opportunity, rushwith considerable decorum, foresight, and cautionto her. However, I have a little soiree planned for tomorrow. Soire. Dreadful word. Id rather it was a dish. Raspberry or something. Thats what it sounds like.

Are you hungry, milady?

Ressa bent down. Magnolia paused.

I do believe I am, Ressa.

Ah, then I shall fetch a delicious sampler of sweets fit for a pig.

Thank you, Ressa. Are you hinting at anything?

Not at all. Your Highness, will you take anything?

Erperhaps something savory?

Very good, your Highness.

The two watched Ressa go. Magnolia murmured to Lyonette.

You know, she only tends to act like this to prove a point, when she thinks I will be embarrassed. I would prefer it if you would be your charming self tomorrow. I plan to finally make a concerted appeal to the gathered individuals here. Some cannot arrive due to this dratted siegewell. It is time.

Lyonettes ears perked up. Time for what? She sipped at her tea cautiously as she was served a kind of delicate brie, crackers, fruits, and Magnolia stared down at an entire cake. Lyonette was impressed. It would have gone for several gold in The Wandering Inn, even without her markup. There was so much frosting as Ressa cut a slice that she wondered if there was more actual cake or frosting in it.

Ressa. You offend me.

I am so sorry, Milady

Magnolia stopped Ressa as she went to take the rest of the cake away.

You slice the entire cake if its meant to be eaten, Ressa. Lyonette, will you take a slice? No?

She delicately put a fork into the first bite of pure frosting as Lyonette and Ressa exchanged a glance.

You were about to unveil your project, Lady Reinhart? Is that notwell, peace between Drakes and Humans?

Lyonette prompted after a few seconds of horrified staring. The thing wasnt that Magnolia ate like a pig. In fact, her manners were better than most. She sipped her tea, ate with a very small forkit was just that she didnt stop. Lyonette felt her teeth melting and heart beginning to stop just watching her and jerked her eyes away.

Indeed. I have yet to offer the many exquisite gifts I so tempted the Drakes with. For that matter, we have yet to come to any accord on peace. I did ask them what they envisioned. The idea of mutual cooperationrather like talking to a bunch of angry bricks in a wall. So it is my turn to make an offer, and I have one. It only remains to be seen whether they will listen at all. Hence, your involvement.

Lyonette nodded. She had observed how much dislike Magnolia Reinhart generated by beingMagnolia Reinhart. Which was not surprising, given her familys history.

Of course I will attend, Lady Reinhart. Howeverwith deepest apologies, I am sure you can accept some reservations? I would not want to be privy to anything untoward.

Magnolia laughed drily.

A Calanferian [Princess] to the core. You will not take it on trust?

I would prefer to know what you plan to offer Oteslia, or the Drakes at large, yes, Lady Reinhart.

The woman pursed her lips, but to Lyonettes deepest surprise, she nodded.

Very well. Ressa, fetch some of the materials.

Youll tell me?

This was not Magnolia Reinharts modus operandi at all. Nor was it wise in any game to show anyone the cards you wanted to hold onto; knowledge was power, even if it was only time to prepare and think. Yet, Magnolia Reinhart met Lyonettes gaze calmly.

I cannot have secrets. Not for this. It must be a plan without frill or duplicity. Do you see why I struggle so, Lyonette? This is what I intend

She outlined her plan. Lyonettes head shot up. She leaned forwards and said

But of course, her daughter mattered more. Lyonette was already flustered when she went to meet with Wall Lord Ilvriss.

Who also knew who she was. At this point, the [Princess] felt like she should wear her tiara just to present herself properly.

Miss Marquin. I apologize for the awkward situation. Alchemist Saliss. Greetings.

It was actually one of the few times the two had met. Lyonette forgot they were not actual contemporaries, for all that Pallass had been open to Liscor for a while. Saliss walked butt-naked into Ilvriss temporary estates.

Wall Lord. I hope you dont mind, but I dressed up for the occasion. Is that Shriekblade lying in a pool of her vomit? Classic Tessa.

Ilvriss had been prepared, but no one was prepared for Saliss. He actually did a double-take, snapped his gaze up from Saliss barebareness. Even Lyonette looked askance at the [Alchemist]. What did he?

Both Human and Drake looked down and their eyes tracked a miniature version of a tuxedo or similar dress.

Attached to Saliss tail. Ilvriss closed his eyes. Then he turned to Lyonette.

This way, Lyonette. I presume we shouldnt stand on formalities?

She smiled at him, genuinely, for the first time that day.

Of course notIlvriss. If thats acceptable?

I would rather imagine that lies up to you, Lyonette. Thank you. I have to apologize againone of my employees, the Named Adventurer Shriekblade, is ill, so this serves a dual purpose.

Mannerisms. If Magnolia, even at her most open, was a kind of dignified, charming social dance, and the Druids a fairly blunt enclave, then Ilvriss was a different kind to both. He had that [Merchant]s manner, almost. Businesslike, direct, but with a certain style of due dignity and ceremony. Lyonette had some familiarity with it, and sped up her own tempo to match his, like a good [Diplomat].

Speaking of which, Ilvriss introduced her in quick succession to Nerul, a charming, if somewhat portly Drake, Captain Shieldscale, a brusque [Soldier]s [Captain], and Xesci, who seemed too charming to be a [Secretary], and the comatose Shriekblade.

My personal aides this time. A ratherdifferent group, but trustworthy.

Lyonette frowned. She had little read on the [Captain] or Xesci, but Nerul made her hair want to stand up. As a [Princess] of the famous political kingdom, she had more respect and wariness for him than anyone else in the room except for Shriekblade.

She sat there, muttering to herself.

Shes dead. Im dead. Shes dead. Im dead

Saliss had focused on her without even doing more than nodding at Nerul and giving Xesci a second look and frowning. He squatted down as Lyonette was caught up as to the reason Shriekblade was in this state. She bit her lip and Ilvriss glanced at her.

Goblins?

A strange coincidence. Unfortunate given the timing. I need Shriekblade to beherself. I had few recourses left; it was either a [Druid] or [Alchemist] Saliss.

Of the two, Lyonette would have gone with a [Druid]. She fully expected Saliss to annoy the Drake with countless thin scars all over her body, but to her surprise, he didnt. He squatted down and spoke, almost kindly to her.

Hey Shrieky. Its me. Saliss. Remember me?

She didnt say anything. Saliss turned.

Look. I dressed up my tail. Youre not doing well, are you? Tessa? Shriekblade?

Shes dead, Saliss. Shes dead. Im not going to be well again.

The Drake muttered. Saliss shook his head.

You dont need the Healer, Tessa. Hm. Youre sick. Are you eating? Mirn would throw a fit. Lets see. Are you?

He went to feel at her forehead and Shiekblade moved. She drew two daggers and slashed at his claw so fast Lyonette didnt see her move. Only that Saliss was two steps back, on his feet.

Yep. Shes dangerous. Im surprised no ones dead.

Ilvriss rubbed at his cheek, and Lyonette saw tell-tale signs of a healing potion; fresh scales.

It has been troubling, to say the least. She refuses to take anything. We did administer a calming spray

The [Alchemist] shrugged.

Tessas got more of a tolerance to that kind of thing than a [Veteran Warrior] does to healing potions. You might as well spit onto a warm towel and toss it on her. It would do about as much good. Shes really down; I dont think youd be able to take her out of it, just blank her for a while. And that wont help.

Ilvriss hissed through his teeth.

I feared that was the case. Saliss of Lights. Could you prescribe and create something to help Miss Tessa? A calming draught? Something to at least keep her from violence? Restore her senses?

Saliss tilted his head, regarding Ilvriss.

Do you mean make her work?

There was no change to his tone, but Lyonettes honed abilities made her glance up. So did Nerul. But Ilvriss glanced at neither his uncle trying to signal him, nor Lyonette. He met Saliss gaze calmly.

I mean, help Adventurer Tessa. Not Shriekblade.

Saliss smiled.

Good answer. And the answer isno. I can give her any number of mind-altering tonics, but I wont. I dont prescribe potions for this. Thats sort of how we got here.

He gestured at Tessa. Ilvriss, a bit taken aback, looked at her.

But how can she?

[Healer]. [Thought Healers] if you have any. Get a [Druid]. But shes out for at least a week. If the Healer comes back, so does she, but I wouldnt count on it.

Saliss eyed Ilvriss. The Wall Lord paced around a bit.

Adventurer Tessas aid is necessary, Saliss. We need her now.

Well, I cant do it aside from turning her into a Golem. Sorry.

Saliss gave Ilvriss an almost apologetic look. Almost. Lyonette, wavering, looked between him and Ilvriss. He had to have thought of it. Why wasnt he saying?

Saliss. Do you think a Faerie Flower might help her?

The Named Adventurer turned his head slowly to Lyonette, and his flat, blank look told her that he was not happy. Ilvriss glanced over.

Faerie Flowers. Yes. It did cross my mind. Do you have a supply in Oteslia, Miss Marquin? I heardsomething about it?

The fact that he hadnt heard all about her monopoly surprised Lyonette, until she remembered he was a [Wall Lord] who specialized in gems and not a [Merchant], [Herbalist], [Gardener], [Alchemist], or so on. She nodded.

I have some in the city. Saliss, could we give um, Shriekblade, a Faerie Flower drink? A Minotaurs Punch? Its helped people like Halrac and

No.

The Drake folded his orange-scaled arms. Ilvriss and Lyonette turned to him.

Why not? It helped me considerably, Adventurer Saliss. Have you tried the drink?

Saliss scoffed.

Have I tried? Who do you think I am? Of course Ive tried it. And Im telling you, I wont give it to Tessa. Nor am I going to whip up some kind of magical cure based on it.

Why not?

Because it might work. And that would be terrible!

The Drake snapped. He looked at both blank faces and threw up his claws.

Tessa doesnt need another potion! I dont think theres a single potion in the world that could fix her, unless its one that just clears out everything shes drunk for the last twenty years! Yes, you might make a miracle-drink. But its a bad idea.

The [Alchemist] looked from face to face and realizedthey had no idea what he meant. Not even Nerulmaybe the odd Drake, Xesci.

But if it helps, Saliss

They didnt understand and Saliss didnt know how to fully explain. He raked a claw through his neck spines. How to explain that the worst thing would be if it did help, because that meant?

He made one mistake. A huge one, but Saliss hadnt thought Lyonette would spring the question on him. Because hed forgotten that she was well-meaning, genuinely probably a good girl, especially for a [Princess]. But she just had no context for this. His mistake was saying all this, arguing with Lyonette and Ilvriss, in front of Shriekblade.

The Adventurer had her claws around his leg before he could move. Saliss whirled.

Tessa, dont

But she didnt have her blades out. She stared up at him.

Youtheres a new potion? Whats a Faerie Flower? Ive heard of it. What does it do?

Saliss cursed. Lyonette wavered.

ItsWall Lord, maybe if we applied it to a Potion of Cleansing or something similar? Saliss, if you dont want to make it, perhaps Xif could?

No. Tessa, you dont need it. Get off

I need it. Saliss, dont stop me. Ill kill you. Give it to me. Give itwhos Xif? Xif of Pallass? He makes some of my potions. Where is?

The [Alchemist] was one of the fastest Drakes in the world. He was second-fastest in this room. He went for Tessa, this time in a complicated grab. She dove past him, and shot for the door.

Tessa!

He charged after her. Lyonette saw Captain Shieldscale go after both. Nerul cursed.

Ilvriss! Im going to stop them! Is she going to gut that poor?

He ran out the door. Xesci hesitated, but then followed on the general principle that everyone was running and shed better get a head start. Ilvriss cursed, going for the door, but then stopped. He very much doubted that he could beat two Named Adventurers, even if they found a coach. The Wall Lord turned.

Ive bungled this situation nicely, Lyonette. Its beendifficult.

Lyonette hesitated, about to go after them, then strode over to the door and closed it. She was also aware of how fast the others moved. The [Princess] looked at Ilvriss. He was far more tired than she remembered. But some of the griefit was not necessarily gone, but it had changed.

Why are you here, Wall Lord Ilvriss?

They had not been able to get into it at the ball. The Wall Lord smiled, bleakly.

I am on an assignment. Self-imposed. I actually intended to meet with Magnolia Reinhart later today.

I just met with her. May I askwhat for?

Wall Lord Ilvriss hesitated. He looked at the closed door. Then at Lyonette. It occurred to him, suddenly, that Saliss of Lights, who was connected to the Cyclops of Pallass, a dangerous Drake and a possible ally, but adangerous Drakehad just left. Leaving Lyonette alone and proving he was about as good as the Gentlemen Callers at bodyguarding.

To be fair, it was difficult, and combat experience did not equate to good preservation instincts for anyone but yourself. However, he had left Lyonette behind and Wilovan and Ratici were likewise missing. Ilvriss looked at Lyonette.

It was becoming a paranoia, as Nerul had pointed out, in how few people he did trust. Even now, he wrestled with the implications.

Yet. If there was one person in the world he would have taken the chance on, for better or worse, because of what he thought about her, because of what she could doit would have been Erin Solstice.

Lyonette? Could he really imagine a Terandrian [Princess] had come all the way to Liscor as part of some Necromancers scheme?

Absolutely, yes. In fact, it happening without some kind of guidance was even more suspicious still. Ilvriss realized his claw was on the doorknob.

Important business, Miss Lyonette. Very confidential to Salazsar. HoweverI trust only a few people with the particulars. And this Oteslian business confounds it all. The Meeting of Tribes as well. Trust is a difficult quality these days.

II imagine so, Ilvriss.

Lyonette glanced at the Drake. He took his claw off the handle. Then carefully produced a magical key and locked the door. Then he twisted a ring on his claw. She glanced around.

Now that she thought of it, she had seen no servants in this mansion, as evidenced by some track marks, a general sign this was not a place you hosted people. She saw Wall Lord Ilvriss turn.

It would be acceptable for me to inform you of the details. And now might be an opportune moment. May I trouble you, Miss Lyonette, for your time? I would only need about twenty minutes.

Iwould like to make sure Alchemist Xif is well, Wall Lord.

Naturally. Perhaps after?

He stood, quite polite, the same Drake she remembered with deep purple scales, a certain dignity like a [Lord] of Terandria to him.

Claw on his sword hilt. Of course, Lyonette had her own sword too, but she was well aware of the difference. She glanced at the shut, locked door. Empty mansion. No one to hear hershe took a few steps back.

Whatkind of questions?

Thirty minutes later, Lyonette found Alchemist Xif with Wall Lord Ilvriss. Nerul glanced up, breathing hard, and eyed Ilvriss.

You took your time.

We had to catch up. I answered a few questions. Is Xif alive?

Lyonette snapped. She stalked past Nerul without a word. The [Diplomat]s eyes narrowed at questions. He glanced at Ilvriss as Xesci and Osthia turned.

A fun fact. Because their biologies were rather similar to Humans, albeit with scales, lacking noses, and so forth, unlike Lizardfolk who were closer to actual lizard biology rather than mammalian, many things were the same.

However, unless you were a Drakeand even thenit was harder to tell someone was blushing. Or, alternatively, had been slapped. Blood below the scales was less visible, but swelling was still swelling.

Ilvriss rubbed at his cheek. He supposed he deserved that, when viewing it from her context. Yet he gave Nerul a significant look.

I assume they were questions that had good answers, nephew?

The best, Uncle. The best.

Nerul smiled and Osthia let out a huge sigh of relief. Ilvriss felt his own shoulders relax. They could talk more. For nowhe pushed into the door as he heard a cry. Neruls head snapped up and they crowded through into the shared home.

Shriekblade had taken Xif hostage in the laboratory theyd set up, and Saliss had broken in, but been unable to enter without her making good on a threat to slit his throat. Mirn, whod been napping, then nearly died to the whirlwind of blades, watched with a club in his claw, but Saliss had no weapons in his claws. He just looked ahead, bleakly, then walked away.

Lyonette du Marquin and Wall Lord Ilvriss heard sobbing. They entered the laboratory and saw Shriekblade. Still a mess, and this time compounded by tears, snot, practically lying on top of a terrified Gnoll.

Xif had an empty vial in one paw. He looked at Shriekblade, but she had dropped the daggers. She was sobbing, feeling at herself.

It worked. It worked!

The impromptu potion lay empty to the dregs in the bottle. Lyonette saw the Named Adventurer sobbing, and shaking, then laughing in relief. She was better. She broke into a relieved smile that she traded with Ilvriss.

Finally. Some good news. Ilvriss smiled all the way back to his mansion. Right up until Xesci whispered to him. She had noticed two people in the crowd around Lyonettes home and they concerned her greatly.

On the list is the First Gardeners son, Cirediel, and a Wall Lady Rafaema. II cant get anything from them. At all.

Questions. While the others asked the important ones, it was the considered opinion of two fellows of singular talents that they could ask one, as it were.

Singular talents. A man had a number of gifts, some quite good ones, if he was lucky. However, expertise was hard to come by. Insofar as anyone could claim anything without being a braggart, they were fairly good at one thing, each.

The two were Wilovan and Ratici. They knew a lot of things.

They knew they were not good men.

They knew they had failed when they absolutely should not.

They knew they did not want to fail again.

They knew a girl was missing, a child, rather spirited, but entirely innocent, and that was a terrible thing. If they found out who was threatening to harm a hair on her head, all bets were off.

All hats were off. They had been on their best behavior, so far from their normal grounds. And see what happened? People kept taking advantage of their kindness.

It was enough. They had one question, and sometimes a fellow had to ask, no matter what the answer was. They had chosen to ask a question like that. The two walked through Oteslia, in their best suits.

Ratici still had a vest, but he had chosen a good, Wyvern-leather one. The kind a fellow brought out and kept well-secured. His pants were a bit different; a Noelictus-brand fiber, black as shadow. Not black as black could be, because that was altogether too dark and stood out at night. He had on his usual cap, but hed even taken the time to buff his shoes, and fetch the good ones that didnt just make no sound, but made anti-sound, sound which ate other sounds.

Wilovan had on a more formal attire. Erin had called it close to a suit from her world, but it was more open than that. And with deepest respect to hershe didnt know clothing.

No constraining fabric when he turned, twisted, or lifted his arms. Nothing to catch onto either, mind you, and the outer layer wasnt silk, or even fine cotton, but a stiffer composite from Ironrams. Mixed with cotton; you werent about to ask for a solid weave, my word, no. It gave him a grey look, as the cotton woven in was of roughly the same color.

With his top hat, he looked a bit too austere, so hed chosen a patterned scarf, a token from an encounter no gentleman talks about, patterned green and braided with a soft cream color. Now there was a fine piece of clothing, fit for any man, rich or poor. Like Ratici, his shoes were buffed, personally, and his pants covered all fur.

They stood out. Neither Gnolls nor Drakes dressed exactly like they did. It was more of a northern look. But the two Gentlemen Callers were used to such looks. If anything, it was funny.

Seems to me we stand out here as much as in the north. Two fellows, never quite right at home, Ratici.

Thats true, Wilovan. However, perhaps theres some comfort in that.

I fail to take your meaning, Ratici.

The Drake [Gentleman Thief] shrugged.

Its one of those things where a fellow never has to think well, the grass is greener over there. Hes always a bit out of place wherever he goes.

Wilovan turned to his friend and companion of long years.

Why, Ratici. If you dont mind me saying, thats as philosophically fine as Ive ever heard you vouch.

I suppose its your comments rubbing off, Wilovan.

The Gnoll smiled. They walked on, in that unhurried, self-assured stroll. They did not stride quickly, nor meander. It was slow, purposeful. Deliberate.

Style. Of course, they both knew where they were going. Wilovan even had a rounded walking cane, and Ratici had a little map of Oteslia, so they wouldnt get lost. Not that they had an appointment, but both were sure they were expected.

Here were the facts: five fellows had conducted themselves rather unpleasantly yesterday. Five fellowsand it wasnt as if there hadnt been some rudeness before, hmm? This time, though, there were people to ask.

The Watch had four, but the fifth had vanished rather unexpectedly. Of course, Ratici and Wilovan were old hands at this. They had sat the man down, offered him a drink, and pressed him gently on where he was from and what all this spot and bother was about.

He had vouchsafed the information quite quickly, and they had taken him at his word. After allwhen he told them this ran through the biggest Gang in Oteslia, and exactly where to go if a fellow was to have a chatwhy, it all sounded straightforward.

Theyd asked him to sit tight and hed obliged them. So the two Gentlemen Callers had prepared themselves for a little trip.

Im told the fellows at Invrisil have disbanded. That is to say, theyve been replaced. Not enough left.

Good lads.

Ratici mumbled. Wilovan nodded.

One of them wrote to me. I have the letter here.

He proffered it, but Ratici didnt look at it.

You can tell me, Wilovan. A [Reader] gets through such things faster than me.

Very well. In summary, he spoke about cost. It seems the last bit was too much coin, even for most of the fellows to pay.

When you take a lady out

you spare not a dime. Even so, they considered it that way. Crimshaw put his hat up.

Did he?

Ratici traced a claw gently along a wall. He flicked a coin up, then approached a booth selling something. He did not steal, but bought and paid with the stall owner. A girl, who beamed at the large gold coin. What kind of fellow stole from children?

Here. A souvenir.

Not a gift fit for the lads back at Invrisil. Normen went off, you know. After that girl.

Good. I thought he had promise.

Ratici tipped his cap at the Gnoll girl. Wilovan did the same with his hat. He paused, as the Drake attached something to his vest. Wilovan debated, and eventually stuck his behind an ear, since he had one and it did not do to infringe upon the others look.

On they went. Ratici adjusted the little flower hanging out of his vests pocket. Wilovan had it tucked across one ear. It got them admiring looks from passersby. Glares from a few fellows, especially since the Gentlemen Callers tipped their hats at a few ladies. But if a man wasnt brave enough to wear a flower, how could he hope to ever make a positive impression?

They did not go into the dark streets of Oteslia, into the poorer sections. If anything, they went up. They headed to a commercial district. To a rather ritzy section, really. True, it wasnt the kind of place some self-respecting folks like Erin Solstice would go, but

It was a gamblers den. But someone had taken the den, and upgraded it into a casino. If they had words for that kind of thing. The Gentlemen Callers would have called it a money haven, or a flash visit. Or

A base. Not that there wasnt food, a restaurant, and a place to play cards, dice, and other such activities for massive amounts of coin. Ratici felt at his vest.

I should have taken my cards along. If we have time, we should play a few hands.

If we have time, afterwards.

Wilovan agreed softly. The two checked themselves one last time, and then strode up to the door.

Excuse me, sir. Miss. Would you happen to have an open-door policy on this fine establishment? Me and my friend, Ratici, here, were hoping to play some games and enjoy ourselves for a night on the city, as it were.

The male and female Drake at the door gave each other a look at the odd accents, address, and dress, but it was clear both had money. One leaned over, whispered, and the first Drake nodded.

Head on in. Someone will let you know the rules. Do you have weapons?

Nary a one.

They were searched, of course. Wilovan and Ratici stood back as the two found not a single weaponaside from a pocket knife Wilovan used to trim his claws. They took it, and let the two Gentlemen Callers in.

Of course, they were expected. Of course, the two knew they were expected. Sometimes, though. You had to ask a question. They tipped their hats to the lovely lady in the rather scandalousyet fetching, you had to admitdress as she smiled and asked them if they wanted food or the tables. Ratici ventured he would prefer a bite to scope out the scene, and Wilovan agreed.

They were charming, polite, and followed her into the casino, nicknamed The Dragons Horde. The most lucrative establishment with rich clientele, some of whom had actually come by their earnings honestly. Run by a fellow said to be in charge of a bunch of other fellows, who had sent said fellows to pay Lyonette a visit.

The two Gentlemen Callers followed the Drake [Waitress] to a table and sat down as eyes focused on them. They smiled, looking around.

As good guests did, they left their hats at the door.

Authors Note: This chapter is split into two parts. So the next one picks up right after this part. Read on! Unless youre a Public-reader and reading them right as they come out. No one will suffer waiting as you do, not before, not after.

C-congratulations?

Hob and Goblins by tobinkusuma!

Magnolia, Erin, and Ieka by Tomeo!

The Last Tide by Miguel!