Book 8: Chapter 45: O

Book 8: Chapter 45: O

A Gnoll and a Drake without hats walked into a casino. If you laughed, it was only because you had mistaken the smiles on their faces for something else.

At roughly the same time, other important people gathered. Not fellows. Not if you called Navine Gemscale and Helessia Gemscale fellows.

Magnolia Reinhart. The First Gardener of Oteslia. Wall Lords and Wall Ladies. Drakes, a few Gnolls, all guests of the party that had never really gone down right.

Zeres army had led to that. Assassins after Magnolia Reinhart. It had to be said, she had failed to impress as of yet. Everyone had seen her dramatic entry into Zeres, with all that wealth and gifts on display. But had they gotten any?

No. Did she think she could buy Drake affection? Buy goodwill and treaties? Absolutely not!

But she could give them something. It might help.

This was the hour, however. The hour did not include Saliss of Lights, or the Gentlemen Callers, or Xif, or Shriekblade.

It did include Nerul, Osthia, Ilvriss, Rafaema, even Cire, who was here because hed heard Lyonette was here. He was giving the First Gardener a headache, but he hadnt called anyone Creler-headed to their face. Yet.

Magnolia Reinhart had yet to arrive, yet Navine Gemscale felt that was only appropriate. She had to offer them something substantive, or she would be all talk and no delivery. She had been somuch of a let down. What had happened to the young woman who had taken control of the Reinhart family? Not that Navine wanted that ruthless woman, but where was the Deadly Flower of the North?

Questions. They dominated the minds of those present. Rafaema glowered, behind a layer of makeup.

Makeup, because the damned ink wasnt coming off. Makhir and Ferris were especially watchful, and shed had to order them not to bring an actual guard. Shed refused to tell them what had happened, but both could recognize a Grade-A asskicking when they saw one.

Who is Onieva? She looked around, but the Drake wasnt here. Rafaema wasnt at a simmer. She was on a boil and the lid was shutlong enough for her to see what the Human was scheming.

Who is Rafaema?

Saliss was asking the same question. He was keeping an eye on Tessa; shed collapsed after taking the damn cure. But he speculated with Mirn.

Do you mean?

I remember.

Mirn stood with Saliss. The [Alchemist] snapped, then tried to modulate his tone.

I remember.

You remember everything?

The Named Adventurer should have been smiling, then. But he hadnt been and even Mirn was afraid to ask. It was one look. A shuddering breath. Saliss bit out the words.

I remember. That she was there. As she saw it.

Oh. Oh

Who is Rafaema? Why have I never heard of her? Focus on that, Mirn. Im going to find one of Chaldions lot. Ive never heard of her, but maybe shes a grade above mine. Maybe he doesnt know.

Hah! But what about uhTessa?

Saliss stopped at the door.

If she wakes up and shes sick, do your thing.

If shes violent?

Try not to bleed everywhere.

Saliss shut the door and walked off.

Questions that mattered. Saliss would also bewhy? Why was he doing this? For Lyonette, obviously, Erin, in the local now. But why was he doing this?

How much longer?

For Wall Lord Ilvriss, as he watched Magnolia Reinhart sweep in, and the grand ballroomrecycled from the last time he had danced with Lyonette herehe had a thought. He could trust Lyonette. He did not know how much she could help, but now he had to ask.

Can I trust her?

He waited, glass in hand, ignoring his mothers looks as he stood with Nerul, not next to Lyonette.

Waiting.

Good evening, Drakes and Gnolls of Izril. I realize this is a small gathering. Smaller than I had hoped, but I see that Oteslia has attended in full. It is my honor to meet you, once again. I pray your indulgence. For the time has come to speak candidly.

Magnolia Reinharts voice reached them first, before the [Lady] herself. The guests looked around, over a thousand of them. Some suspicious, others bored or just hostile, even now. Lyonette did not move, just glanced around at the open doors, showing a view of the city.

She had no doubt that what would follow was impressive. She, in fact, knew what would follow, at least, the contents of it, the big twist. Oh, but it was huge.

Yet that was not the question she had asked. Now, and then. The noble Drakes stirred. Some adjusted their trendy monocles. A few popped out as the amateurs forgot to hold them tense and they broke on the ground. The others turned, some in the flowing dresses, a copy of which Lyonette wore.

Navine focused on the common, bronze ring on Lyonettes hand and her brother. Then her head snapped up.

For here came Magnolia Reinhart. Nooutside there was a roar of voices. Shouting. The Drakes turned to the steps leading up to the grand, public ballroom. They could see something coming up the steps. They pointed.

Then the others saw it. Ilvriss blinked. Nerul began to chuckle. He threw his head back and laughed, a deep guffaw. His was one of the few sounds amid the gasps or just silence. Even the First Gardener was taken aback, but Cire stood up with interest, as Mivifa hid behind a curtain.

For here came a carpet. No, the carpet. The very same that had unfurled at Zeres. A train of Humans, even a Gnoll in a [Maid]s dress, rolled out the vast, ridiculously long piece of cloth. Straight through the ballroom, up the steps.

Here she came. Heads turned, and the people tried not to crowd. But surelysurelythere she was.

Speaking through the stone, addressing them, as she rode, standing on top of the rolling vehicle coming up the stairs. Noit was floating off the ground. A pink carriage.

Do forgive me, friends. But I had to make a bit of a scene out of it.

The pink carriage rolled into the ballroom, through the double doors, as Magnolia Reinhart stood on it. Ressa calmly brushed at her shoulder as she stood with the same pink dress she had worn when she stood on Pallass walls.

There was a meaning in each thing. Lyonette had eyes for Reynold, though few looked at him. They were gawping at Magnolia, or the servants proceeding with treasure after treasure, held on pillows or in their arms. And the Dragonsail, fluttering behind the carriage

But the [Butler] she looked at. The same man she had seen a few times before. Erin had liked him. So had Ryoka. He looked older. Tired.

His legs. He had legs. They were as striking as any Lyonette had ever seen. The feet were carved, and she did not see them in the shoes. So were the upper legs, joined to the torso. But he could not wear pants, for a coruscating beam of magical energy, like lightning, connected foot to the upper part of his legs, where shins could be.

Magic. He looked left, as he slowly moved into the room and came to a stop, and a bridge appeared that Magnolia might step down. He nodded at her once, as Magnolia descended into this moment.

And all Lyonette could thinkas she looked at this grand scene that the Lady of House Reinhart could engineer, at what was coming nextat Magnolia Reinharts confident face, hiding what had to be nerves beyond beliefwas the same thing she had asked her then.

What is wrong with you?

Lyonette du Marquin saw Magnolias hand stop, a bit of cake perched on the fork.

I beg your pardon?

The [Princess] was shaking. She looked at Magnolia. Her plan still echoed in Lyonettes mind. It could work. It could. It was intelligent, it had been well-planned.

Yet something was wrong. And it was this.

Forgive me, Lady Magnolia. But I meant to saywhat is wrong with you? What has changed? Why are you sotimid?

Lyonette du Marquin rose along with Ressas brows. But the [Maid] did not look disapproving. She saw Lyonette stand like everything she was.

Red hair, blue eyes, the product of luck or Skilla strikingly beautiful young woman who held herself, even in disguise, with the poise she had been taught from birth. Something else as well. A dignity, an age she had earned that her sisters lacked.

Not just like a [Princess]. Like youth, the very embodiment of it. It was quite familiar to the two. It hurt that it was nostalgic, because it meant you truly had changed. Even when you swore you wouldnt.

Age judged youth. It famously loved to do so. Howeveryouth? It went two ways, and it was never comfortable. That was called fairness.

What do you mean, Miss Marquin?

The [Princess] eyes flashed.

I must struggle, Lady Reinhart, to find help for my daughter.

Which I have given, to the fullest extent I can without tangling this issue further.

Lyonette jerked her chin down, in a grudging nod.

I know, and I thank you on behalf of The Wandering Inn, and myself, Lady Reinhart. That is not what I was referring to. RatherI am perplexed. No, I am angry and outraged. Because I had come here expecting to beg and fight for a single favor, not have it held out wholesale.

One supposes it would be a lovely relief. Why do I feel as though you hold the opposite to be true?

Magnolias eyes were outwardly perplexed, but she tapped her forefinger against the stem of her teacup. Lyonette shook her head.

That is the good, equitable, nice thing to do, Lady Magnolia. It is not what I expect of the Deadly Flower of the North! I was prepared to sign almost anything. That I would signsomething punitive. Demanding. Not necessarily unfair, but which gave you something I did not know I possessed, or was willing to part with. And in return, I would have the famous carriage. Or the aid of no one less than Ressa, and damn the consequences.

Interesting. Is that all?

Lyonette was breathing hard already, but she met Magnolias gaze because she couldnt speak like this and not do that. Her eyes strained, so she focused on the words pouring out.

No. You came to Zeres like a storm. Forced the Serpentine Matriarch to allow you access, displayed the grandeur of your house. Thenyou came to Oteslia like a mouse. All these people who have come to visit you, Zeres besieging the city itself? You have notpulled at them. Or pushed. I know you can.

What do you imagine of me?

Magnolia toyed with a ring on her finger. She was still. Lyonette didnt have to imagine it.

Secrets. Everyone has them. A Wall Lady suddenly supports you because of a little letter on her dress stand. Anothera rich [Merchant] is set to become very rich if she backs you. So she does. It does not cost House Reinhart as much because there are clever ways to do it. Preferential treatment. Another group backs you because you tacitly support their enemies.

Calanferian politics, in short.

Politics. Wherever you go. The very heart of diplomacy, with the bows and ribbons removed and the insides exposed. I do not think it is evil, or reprehensible. It is only how we behave. I would not hold it against you, Lady Reinhart. Ratherthe Magnolia Reinhart I heard of, that even Calanfer saluted, was the very woman who would strangle anyone in her way with the very noose they wove for her, and drag them after her as unwilling allies. The flower that could not be plucked, even with adamantine gloves.

At last, Magnolia Reinhart laughed. It was soft, amused, genuinely amused. She shook her head.

I quite liked that turn of phrase. I still do. What do you think, Ressa?

They called you a flower, rather than a viper. Flowers are still innocent, Lady Reinhart. They should have called you a Creler, if they could bear to call a [Lady] that. Crelers dont just defend or hunt. They crawl into your room and lay eggs in your head.

Magnolias lips quirked. Ressa was fixing Lyonette with a long look that was more painful than the [Lady] herself. It was not disapproving, however. She almost looked encouraging.

I will admit. I have changed my methods, Lyonette. It is true; I could employ less kindly methods. I could be more persuasive.

Yes. Why arent you?

Lyonette was breathing hard. Magnolia pursed her lips. She didnt move. She just sat there, accepting Lyonettes frank criticism. That too, was wrong. She was no outraged personality, to throw Lyonette out on her rear. But Lyonette was sure she could say something to singe Lyonettes ears.

Why have you changed?

To that, Magnolia Reinhart sighed. She put down her teacup, and stretched. She looked at Lyonettethen calmly, and quite deliberately, put her feet up on the low table between them. Lyonette was appalled at such a display of indifference to the Oteslian furniture. But Magnolia Reinhart just looked up at the ceiling and murmured.

You know. I quite feel like you do, some days. Why should I listen to fools, with no notion beyond swinging a sword at their enemies? Why do I allow them to impede me? Why should I tolerate them waving a stick in my face, as if that is the only power that matters in this world? I could not. Zeres army stands outside. I could prevail on my allies and make their situation untenable. Move other Walled Cities and groups against them. I do have connections.

She lifted her hand. Lyonette saw it change in the air, her fingers leavingafterimages? Yet it was a delicate, slow movement. Magnolia Reinhart reached out. Dozens of trailing images of her hands, opening something.

I could ask him.

Was it a scroll? Or the idea of a contract? Lyonette saw a man standing there, cursing, staring over the bow of his ship. She saw something, writ between them. A simple contract.

Coin and goods. Trade and security.

Gold for sugar. House Reinhart famously imported it from Baleros, free of [Pirates] or price fluctuations. With none other than

Lord Admiral Seagrass glanced up, and Magnolia Reinhart smiled. He frowned at her, and only at her, and raised two brows, impatient, glaring over the wreckage of ships after his encounter with The Pride of Wellfar. Lyonette saw something glowing on his arm.

A tattoo. None other than House Reinharts. Magnolia nodded at him, and her fingers curled. Thenabruptlyshe released her grip, and he faded, looking annoyed. Lyonette saw Magnolias head turn.

I could prevail on a certain, notably upstanding, [Stormlord Captain] with certainscurrilous rumors to raid Zeres famous trade routes. He is no fond friend of them, you know, since the Walled City does like to throw its weight around. He would have a cost, of course, but I could pay it. I could hire [Pirates]. I could forge the same kind of deals my family is famous for.

Favors for silence. Murders done. Fortunes stolen. Lies made. Lovers. Lovers. More loversdiscrepancies in taxes paid. Embezzlement. Secret projects and children.

Ressa had on a pair of reading spectacles. She was going down a list. Lyonette saw Magnolias gaze flicker left for a moment. She focused on the cards Ressa was flicking through, hoping to see just one bit of writing

It is what I am good at. I do admit it. If you wanted me to, I could even becomenastier. A blade in the dark. That was why the Assassins Guild broke ties with me. Not because they were offered more, but because I refused to wield them. I could have the Admiralty of Zeres wake up and find their comrades throats cut if I prepared. Is that what you would like, Lyonette du Marquin?

Lyonette took a moment. She had to look away from that burning gaze. Two burning sage-green and sand-yellow irises in a lovely [Lady]s face. Not at all soft, even like the most deadly of flowers. She whispered, hoarsely.

Not all of it, Lady Reinhart. But why do you do none of it?

Magnolia Reinhart sighed, sat back, and the force behind the stare flicked off like a switch. She looked at Lyonette, tiredly.

Because, Lyonette. A tyrant is still a tyrant, no matter if she dresses her hand in perfume and hides the blood with silk, rather than steel and sorcery. And a tyrant can change the landscape with force if need be. They can make fortresses, make terrible war, and destroy many things. They can also create places where wealth, learning, and a kind of happiness emerge, that is true. What they cannot do is change minds. You can unite foes against a single enemy. But once the monster is dead, they go back to quarrelling. You can force a cease-fire. Peace does not come like that.

Lyonette looked at Magnolia. Was shequoting something?

That still does not mean you must do without any of it, Lady Reinhart.

She smiled.

Of course not, my dear. I do not. There have been times, even recently, when I forced certain people to stop. When I did, I was quite unkind. I simply prefer not to get to that point if at all possible.

But why not thenI understand that, Lady Magnolia. I truly do. But what aboutthere have been times when I felt as though if you had but given us aidyou could have had considerable parts of Liscor! You could have used

She hesitated.

The knowledge of your guests. Theyve done well for themselves. Some of them.

Some.

You never used it. They were just guests of yours. I know you are not that simple. Erinshe can find the best in people. Yet I refuse to believe you cannot do the same.

Ressa nodded, fractionally. Magnolia sighed.

Very true. I could have had Kevin begin hiswhat is it? Solar Cycles? Very catchy. Or perhaps unearthed young Josephs abilities in kicking round objects. I did not. In truth, I rather expected Erin Solstice to get sick of them, much as I was. She can find the best in people. Yes. I never tried.

Why didnt you? Even Invrisil is making a soccer team. If you

I do not need more wealth, Miss Lyonette. I could throw away every artifact and gold coin I could get my hands on and not notice it. I do not, actually, need more power. Not in that regard. Isnt it lovely that they are making something of themselves? I am sure they are levelling up and doing something worthwhile, that helps multiple cities.

You didnt help them.

Lyonette accused Magnolia. She sat down, because she was getting tired of standing to little point. Magnolia shook her head. She pursed her lips, and again, seemed to quote something.

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. If they are to rise, Lyonette, they should do so on their own merits.

I have never heard that sentiment expressed before, Magnolia. Not once. The first part about tyrantsof course. Never the second. Why would you not help people? Focus on them? Bring out their best?

Whether they want to or not? That is quite like The Wandering Inn, Miss Marquin. Quite like a certain young woman who could see the best of everyone. Antinium, Goblins.

Yes. You dont share that belief?

Magnolia Reinhart smiled, eyes glittering.

I did. However, I have met wiser guides. It is entirely possible for me to gain my way by force and words. It will not change anything. I came here not to drag Drakes kicking and screaming into peace, but persuade them. So yes. I will not bully or blackmail or threaten them. Nor will I tempt their greed and avarice, or push one or the other into potential. I came here for something far longer. That applies to how I have acted. Earthis a dratted inconvenience. But for it, I could have worked in peace, I think.

Lyonette looked at Magnolia.

Who told you that? Theyre wrong. Without Erinwithout the inn, the world would be worse off. You need to find the best in people. Shes befriended Goblins and Antinium and

They stand out. Dont they? Ahead of their time. Touched by a kindly [Innkeeper]. They will have the most difficult lives one can imagine. Perhaps it is kinder, to give them all that, as terrible as their lives have been and will be. Perhaps. But that is Erin Solstices choice, not mine. Because she can do quite a lot where she stands, but I? I could do everything. I could build them a city, engineer pacts and peace and gather them up.

Magnolia clapped her hands and Lyonette saw it. A city, perhaps not Liscor, somewhere safer, backed by all of the cunning of the Five Families, the wealth, agents like Ressa and Reynold who kept undesirables away.

Manufactured.

A tyranny of kindness. No. That is too far. I admire your struggles, Miss Marquin. If you ever come to where I stand, I wonder if you will think as I do, though. Hate me. Take whatever I offer, or do not. But I oppose only the rawest calamities. The Spider. All out war. I do not lift up, and I do not crush anymore. I leave people be. If they will change, make more of themselves, that is well and I support it. I refinance areas struck by disaster, I offer opportunity. But if they will not change, if they will not do anything, I do not force them. It is their choice.

She turned to Lyonette.

That is freedom. That is the ideal way to rule, if you strip down your own ambitions and moralities and views of how you think the world should be to its plain core. Strive to make the world better without forcing people into your schemes.

Who? Who in the world told her that? Lyonette rocked back in her seat. It sounded so weary, so different from what she would have imagined the Magnolia of old saying, she had to believe it wasnt just something Magnolia had come up with. Who had told her that?

Because

You are wrong, Magnolia Reinhart.

Ressa sighed as Lyonette stood. She looked at Magnolia as Lyonette curtseyed, quite appropriately, as a [Princess] did. A swish of the dresses, an inclination of the head to a powerful [Lady]. No more.

You are wrong. I will be there for your announcement to the Drakes. It may even succeed. But whoever told you thatthere is no limit on the good one can do.

Magnolia sighed as Lyonette spun on her heel, to visit Ilvriss, so furious she was shaking. She called after Lyonette.

Very good, Miss Marquin. Drag them kicking and screaming into your vision.

The [Princess] stormed away without a word. Ressa glanced at Magnolia. She walked over, and for once, sat down, where Lyonette was. Magnolia eyed her, but picked up her cold tea cup. She frowned at it, and it began to steam as the enchanted ceramics warmed themselves.

She is right, you know. There is nothing wrong with fighting for something. You have, all your life. Hes not perfect. Look what hes doing now.

He is out of his mind and I fear for him. We will head north as soon as this ends, siege or not.

And? You believe everything you just said?

Ressa folded her arms, glaring. Magnolia sighed.

The difference that I realized, Ressa, is that when I was Lyonette, she was right. Now? I can move mountains. Teriarch is right. There is too much power to do it fairly. I could never guide Kevin into making Solar Cycles. It would be too easy.

She stood, brushing at her dress.

Come, Ressa. Its time.

Without a word, the [Maid] rose. She helped prepare for the grand, gentle pact of Magnolia Reinhart. She couldnt help but remember something that the very same guide and mentor had once said to Magnolia, though. She muttered it and Magnolia stopped dead.

you need not be a Dragon yourself, though.

As Magnolia Reinhart greeted the Drakes of Izril and laid out her grand plan for a kind of peace, two men sat in The Dragons Hoard. Fairly appropriately, in name and symbolism, though they couldnt see all the threads.

A fairly posh place.

Posh?

Ratici looked at Wilovan. The Gnoll was checking a menu, glancing around. The restaurant section was set in the center, and to the sides were the gambling tables.

Magical cards, dice, even a new area where you could place wagers internationally on events like gladiator bouts or fights. Wilovan glanced over as he heard a small voice, leaking into the magically divided areas.

and here comes the Champion of Rust, into the greatest arena of Nerrhavias Fallen! The terror that came out of the sands! The One-Armed Warrior! The Silver-Killer! Yv

But he was distracted. The Gnoll looked around. If a lot of the guests here were rich, there was a noticeable contingent who were not. Who werein a worddisreputable.

Of course, a fellow could be honorably disreputable, but Wilovan felt in his marrow these were the gents who did not deserve the name. They skulked in the background, avoiding the light where some Drakes and Gnolls did come to just gamble.

I wonder where the leader is?

The [Thief] snorted.

Look ahead, Wilovan.

Ah, a fellow at the heart of things.

Wilovan went to tip a hat he didnt have. There he saw the person to put a question to. It was a burly Drake, laughing at the largest table in the center of things. He had some quite lovely companions, some fellows and ladies of a peculiar sort of expertise in one areajust like Wilovan and Raticiand he ruled this place.

Hm. Looks like a fewcolleagues.

Yes indeed. Good to know a large city doesnt want for fellows like us.

The two Gentlemen Callers stopped only a second. A few heads glanced their way. They did not look for the exits. A question was a question when you asked it.

I wonder if hell keep us waiting?

It falls in line with the lack of manners we might expect, Ratici. I suggest we start with an appetizer. Do you liketomato fritters?

Wilovan, insofar as I dislike anything, that is the most repulsive food I could imagine.

Mm. Appropriate for the moment?

Get two.

The Gnoll waited politely for a [Waitress] to come over. They waited, and knew that the Drake in the center had noticed them. Even so. A fellow had to wait for the right moment to take the spotlight. They just wondered one thing, if anything.

Is it today?

Wilovan glanced up from the knife and fork he was placing just so. He glanced at Ratici.

We shall find out, wont we?

Ratici nodded.

From another perspective, it looked different. The Dragons Horde. It sounded like a joke, but the Drakes did like such things.

The tables rolled with coin, but they werent a casino, if that word was even in this worlds vocabulary. Not yet. The tables made money, but they had rich clientele.

Which was stupid. Logical, as far as they saw it, but stupid. You didnt want the rich to come here. Well, you did, but not just the rich. The rich were few and far between, and they tended not to come back if they spent a fortune.

Having more accessible stations for someone with only a bit of gold, and incentives for them to come. More addiction. Moredelight.

That was what it could be. As it was, this was clearly just a base of operations. If you came here even a few times, youd notice figures slipping in and out the back hallways. They avoided you, unless you poked your head in, because you were the innocent guest. And there were rules.

Rules, set down by the huge Drake in the center of the room, at that table three times bigger than even the largest group ones. He was a big fellow, not yet fat, but with the way he was eating, he clearly had reached the top of the food chain. Indeed, he had a huge kind of suit on him.

Again, not a suitnot yet, but a swaggering set of clothes still aping other peoples fashions. Hence the doublet. Terandrian, the watcher guessed. He had a lovely Gnoll on one arm. But she was, in fact, very dangerous, if the stiletto dagger hed seen her use to nab some treats was any indication.

She was not, however, a Face. There were three of them present. Here was the boss. Here were the best underlings.

Three againstthe figure glanced over as he adjusted his hand, half a mind on the game.

Two. He knew the three, not the two, the Gnoll and Drake whod walked in with style. Hat-men? From the north? He liked them almost at once.

Not so for this lot. There was a lazy Drake, feet up on one of the couches, stacking gold coins and counting them. A Gnoll, sitting with arms wide, trying to hide his patchy fur with regrown fur that still stood out, no matter the dye job.

Lastly, the Drake whispering to a huge, two-headed dog he kept feeding huge portions of meat to. Not three-headed; two giant heads, a dark blue coat, and fangs that made the watcher glad he was well clear of the monster. Even a Carn Wolf would take one look at this hound from hell and decide he had better things to do.

Since he was closer, from his table, he could actually pick up a few wordsnot that the center group tried to keep their voices low.

Theres just not as much good soil this month.

The Drake counting coins was complaining. The Drake in the center stopped letting his companions feed him treats and snapped.

Well, go water more and youll get more good soil. Everyone knows that. I keep telling you. Theres mites around. Im dealing with them. You can take a month with less than a wagonload of soil, Ecleeif.

Ecleeif. The Drake counting coins; thinner than the other three and with a kind of whine in his voice.

Its not like youre getting any lessPorun

The furious stare from the center made him amend his words.

Chief.

Chief. Mind your manners. Were at work, Ecleeif.

The [Beast Master] snapped, glancing up from his hound, who issued a growl. Ecleeif sulked back into his seat. The watcher smiled, and the person opposite him folded.

He couldnt help it. He muttered, so low no one heard him.

Oh my god. Theyre stereotypes. Are they doing it on purpose?

They had to think they were genuine. He cast a glance down at the two figures watching the center table as they ate. One was picking at a fried tomato, the other flirting with the [Waitress]. Yet they had a kind of edge to the way they sat.

Good fellows.

Are you going to play or not?

At last, one of the other players demanded. The watcher jumped. In doing so, he knocked over his stack of silver coins.

Oops! SorryIdrat

A commotion made Wilovan look up. The Drake in the center was looking their way, signalling one of the [Waitresses]. However, a shout at a table made everyones heads turn.

A figure was scrambling after some coins rolling all over. The other [Gamblers] at the card table were on their feet, shielding their cards. Wilovan raised his brows.

A young Human man was scrambling to pick up the coins, some of which had scattered so far by him turning and spraying them theyd actually bounced off a table. And into someones soup.

My soup!

Ancestors damn it, Rickel!

One of the Drakes roared. The young man hurried over.

I am so sorryI have no idea how they got this far.

Ive been looking forwards to eating all day, sir!

The Human was a gambler, clearly. A bad one, and flustered as he tried to apologize to a couple breaking from their gambling or watching the scrying orb. He reached for a coin pouch, a small one.

I uhIll pay for it.

And the damage to my dress!

The Drake insisted. Rickel bit his lip.

Iof course. Howsthis?

He offered them a gold coin. To Wilovans eye, even if you factored in the soup and the dressnot exactly the most expensive one, it wasnt bad. The Drakes hesitated. The Human stared at their faces.

Wait, is that not enough? Umhows this?

He added another gold coin. Bit his lip, and added a third.

Thats all I can afford. Is it enough?

Did he not know how much he was offering? Ratici snorted in disbelief, but the young man didnt look rich, especially if three gold coins was a setback. He was gambling at the silver-tables, not gold.

Itwell, itll have to do. Go on, now.

The Drake shooed Rickel away and scooped up the gold coins. His partner even fished out the silver coin out of her soup.

You fertilizer-head. Dont you know how much a gold coin is worth?

Rickel went back, flustered, to his table, apologizing to the other diners who seemed to know him and were clearly amused. The Human rubbed at his head.

Uhsometimes Im off. Sorry. I think Im out. Especially if Im paying for the food.

He looked at his much-depleted money pouch and his face fell. The other [Gamblers] laughed at his misfortune, but the Drake in the center raised a claw and boomed.

Ill cover it.

Boss, why do you like that idiot?

Rickel actually threw a salute with a grin, and the Drake addressed the whining Drake counting coins.

Because hes funny, and he has good ideas now and then. Hes harmless. Come back tomorrow, Rickel! And next time, dont put all your coins where you can toss them into soup!

Laughter. Red-faced, the Human hurried down the tables, heading for the restroom. He tripped halfway across. On a silver coin.

Oh sh

He crashed into a table and the Drake in the center of the room laughed so hard he nearly fell out of his huge chair. Rickel got up, flustered.

I am so sorry

Not at all, sir. Dont you worry.

Wilovan helped him up; Ratici had saved all the dishes and drinks. It didnt escape the center groups attention and they fixed on Ratici. Not Rickel. The Human glanced at Wilovan as the Gnoll picked him up and dusted him off.

Thanks. Feel free to laugh. Ive made a mess of myself.

He grinned, cheeks still red. He had an inviting smile, which was probably why the others tolerated him, despite messing up their game. A young [Gambler]. Wilovan shook his head, remembering his hat was gone.

A fellow doesnt laugh at another fellows misfortune. I hope some good luck comes your way, sir.

Rickels lips twitched.

I love the way you said that. Now theres a bit of style.

Thank you, sir. Im pleased you noticed.

Ratici glanced up. Rickel looked at the two of them.

Youre not from here, are you? You haveamazing style. Im Rickel, by the way.

Mister Rickel, that puts a stride in my step, so it does. Youre not half badly done yourself, if I may say so.

Indeed, the young man had a quite nice set of clothes on himself. Nothing in the vein of either the Gentleman Callers style, or the current one, or the suit and fashion on display in the center of the room. He had a kind of jacketed hoodie on, able to be buttoned up, comfortable green pants with a slash of white down each side, and a complementary undershirt with Oteslias own regalia on it.

Throw on a hat and hed not be too bad. He grinned at Wilovan, fashion recognizing fashion of its own. His was not at all popular or in voguebut he wore it as if it was.

Youve got to have style, right? Well, I have to gobut you know this is a trap, dont you?

Wilovans smile never changed. Ratici glanced up. The young man kept smiling.

Thats a fairly odd thing for a fellow to say. Dangerous, even.

Wilovan remarked calmly. Rickel nodded. He glanced at the two of them.

It is. But I like you two. You walk in here, cool as cucumbers, and sit down. Why?

Ratici raised his brows.

Are cucumbers cool, Wilovan? I never looked into how cool any were.

It may be theyre fairly pleasant in that regard, Ratici. I have never eaten a warm one.

The Human laughed. He laughed, throwing his head back, and looked at them, even more amused. Even more happily.

I like you two! Youre not afraid? At all?

Now the figure in the center was waiting, staring at Rickel with clear annoyance; he was getting in the way. Wilovan glanced over the young mans shoulder.

Sir. Id advise you to stay in the restroom a good spell. Or have a wander in the city. As to your question? Sometimes a man does what he does. Hell pay the cost of it. Tomorrow. Or today. Well find out, wont we, Ratici?

That we will, Wilovan.

Rickel was lost for words for a moment. He stood there, then looked at the two. He shook his head, and flipped a coin.

[Bet: Luck].

The coin flipped around and around in the air. Wilovan looked up. The coin fell, glittering, bounced off Rickels thumband straight into his eye.

He swore, stumbling away, as the silver coin bounced off and someone picked it up. Wilovan shook his head, and Ratici adjusted his belt.

Well, more to you.

Rickel called out after their backs. He walked off, sighing, hands in his pockets, as the two Gentlemen Callers walked on. Theyd forgotten all about him already.

So heres the two foreigners who think they can plant seeds wherever they want.

The Drake in the center was the gardener. He was the head. He was the boss.

And this was a Gang. Idioms aside, Wilovan knew what this was. Oteslias largest Gang was here. He raised a paw to his head, realized his hat was gone a third time, and nodded.

Good evening to you, sir. My names Wilovan. My companion here is Ratici. We were hoping to have a word, as it were, if you werent too busy. A pressing matter.

Good evening. Do you hear how they talk?

One of the others at the table wheezed with laughter. The Drake in the center looked over, picked up a fork, and tossed it at the Drake.

It was the thin fellow who counted gold in the open. He dodged, cursing, but just. The tines of the fork buried into the couch cushion.

He nearly hurt that fellow. Wilovan frowned. Ratici just shook his head.

The others fell silent as the Drake glared. Then he shifted his eyes to the two.

So whore you? The Gentlemen Callers?

Some call us that.

Ratici murmured. The Drake snorted.

Well. They call me the boss. Or the gardener, if were out in the open. Poruniv, Oteslias Second Gardener.

I should have been me, back when I was him.

He saluted Magnolia Reinhart with one claw, and she dipped her head at him and walked on.

They admired her. Even Cire, who stared at an image she had conjured.

That would be nice. I like trees.

But she disagreed. Lyonette du Marquin shook her head. And she spoke, though that was not arranged, though she knew it was unwise to attract attention to herself.

Its too long, Lady Reinhart. We can do more. You say we will be alliesthat is to say, north and south for only the most dire enemies. You give these species a chance to change over time. But I have been to a place where bonds just as great can be forged far faster. Why not ask for more? Let those who sign that contract be allies in all wars. In all battles.

Drakes shook their heads at her, and Ilvriss fixed Lyonette with a gaze, but her hands were clenched. She had seen it.

When there is danger, we will be there. That is a promise between true friends. I know there are those who could make such a promise, now. Perhaps not all. Not by one contract. But

And her head turned to Wall Lord Ilvriss. Magnolia Reinhart shook her head. She smiled at Lyonette, sadly.

I am sure it would endure, MissSolstice. I do not doubt the strength of your words. Or individual friendships. However, even if we could agree to thatand we do not trust each other enough

She looked around, and met rueful smiles with her own.

such promises would only last as long as we lived, no matter how hard we tried to keep to them. The problem with such fiery pacts, you see? Inevitably, they are broken. Because they must be. Because something changes. Something slow. We will not see it, friends. But we may live proudly, if we keep ourselves moving to that goal.

The First Gardener nodded. A [Druid] in the back let his tears dribble down into his beard. And that was why he followed her. The [Druids] of Oteslia nodded.

Such gentle persuasion Magnolia Reinhart used. Lyonette wanted her to inspire. Lead by example! Do more than hold out a handgrasp mine. She could not love Magnolias idea, not alone.

Northe shaking figure. Makhir felt a nudge. He looked over at Ferris and the [Infiltrator] directed his attention left.

Rafaema? Is something?

The Lightning Dragon stared at Magnolia. She was shaking. Shaking her head, backing up a few steps, her discipline shattered. She saw what Magnolia was talking about. She saw the scale, taken in mortal lifetimes. But unlike CireRafaema was horrified.

No. No. Its too long. Its too much. I cant

Her breath came in gasps. As if something heavy were on her chest. Panic welled in her, and she could not explain why. Only that she saw herself. Over those long ages. Was that what it took? Alone?

Raf?

Cire touched her claw. Rafaema turned. She tore away from Cire and stumbled away. Magnolia Reinhart glanced at her, as she stood in the center of it all.

Some would never agree. Drakes and Gnolls left to tell their allies exactly what the Human wanted and conspired to oppose it. But more than she could have hoped at this weary point stayed. Not a single quill touched the contract. Not yet.

A tiny step, that she had to write in ink by the time this ended.

The debate was in full force, and Magnolia Reinhart occupied the center circle, talking candidly about the costwhich Drevish had tried to marry to speed and quality. It was said you could only get cheap, quick, or good, on a project, and not all three. It was a truism Drevish had laughed at. For lesser people, perhaps. While he had died, his work had not.

It was at this moment, as Lyonette hung back, offended to her core, without being able to fully denounce Magnoliaonly that she was doing the right thing the wrong wayand as Ilvriss was thoughtfully heading over to introduce himself to a stiff [Butler]that someone came rushing up the steps.

First Gardenera minor issue.

Shaerrha glanced up. She listened, then approached Magnolia.

Lady Reinhart. Do you have anyHuman allies in the area?

People listened in, and the First Gardener let them as Magnolia Reinhart raised her brows.

Many allies, but none directly here.

Ah. Well, there is an emerging situation. It may becomeunpleasant. I am told Liscors army is there, and they are pragmatists. But the Admiralty and Zeres army also hold the area. And while I am told Admiral Asale and the Admiral of the Land are reasonablethe current Sharkcaptain is not. There are four Humans trying to reach Oteslia. They have passports and I do not know how they got this far unhindered. But they are [Knights] and Zeres seems prepared to capture them.

Lyonettes head turned. Magnolia raised her brows. She took a deep sip of tea.

And who might they be?

Thronebearers of Calanfer. If their golden plate is anything t

Magnolia Reinhart was too much of a [Lady] to do a proper spit-take. She didnt even so much as purse her lips. Lyonette du Marquin, on the other hand, was quite capable of expectorating all over Nerul. The [Diplomat] stared down at his vest.

I have never seen such a splendid execution. The old Winebreath Blaster. Classic diplomatic trick. You, young lady, are a credit to your home. Natural talent. Indeed.

Ruefully he walked away. Lyonette didnt even hearshe turned.

Oh no. Not them. How had they? Mrsha had written to her about four idiots, but not

Dear me. By provoke, do you mean?

Magnolia Reinhart glanced towards the double doors. Shaerrha bit her lip.

Oteslia is just ahead! Ride! Ride, damn you!

Dalimont roared. The three Thronebearers surged after him, terrified. A sea of Drakes were hot on their heels.

We have passports! We h

An arrow grazed Ser Lormels head and he ducked. To be fair, it was a practice arrow, but the idiot didnt have his helmet on and he was trying to put it on as they rode. Which was an exercise in futility and he lost track of it. It went rolling and two Drakes tripped over it, which was something.

Lormel nearly went back to get it, but Zeres army, loosing arrows without arrowheads, daring them to take a swing, was cutting off their exit.

Do not draw your blades. Even if they attack.

Dalimont growled at the others. They had their hands on their hilts, but they could see the Drakes wanted them to spill blood. Then they died.

It had all gone so well. The Liscorian army had been very reasonable, especially when they saw the passports originated out of Liscor! However, Zeres?

Theyd violate the rules of war just to kill us?

I believe they would, Dame Ushar. Listen to me. One of us has to make it to Oteslia.

The gates are closed!

Then do nothing. If they beat or torture us, tell them only the truth. Listen

Hands were grabbing for Dalimont. Warily, he knocked them down with his glove, but he dared not strike at the jeering Drakes. He saw the Admiralty, including a thunderously powerful Drake with an aura that sent barbs into Dalimont even from afar. Arguing with two leaders.

Was this where they failed? After going so far to reach the 6th Princess? As someone grabbed his leg and he jerked, Dalimont feared it was so. His horse reared, and if a flying hoof struck

Exactly that happened. A Drake cried out and the others shouted.

Theyre attacking! Get them!

No, damn you! The Eternal Throne

Blades came out. Dalimont went down, cursing. Not now! Not after all! He was thrashing as someone ripped off his helm and put a spear to his throat when he heard a sound.

At first, he thought it was a horn, from one of the Singers songs.

Cara?

But it wasnt her songs, as he had heard in desperate hours. It was just a horn. First one, then twomusical, in a sense, but a single, crescendoing note.

They came from the walls. The fighting slowed. Someone shouted.

1st Marines, about face! Formation! Formation!

It was a worried tone. Dalimont, still on the ground, didnt dare move. The other three Thronebearers rose, armor muddied. Scarcely believing it. Yet in the distance

Oteslias gates were swinging open.

Both Zeres and Liscors forces reacted with calm alarm. There was no chance Oteslias 1st Army would sally forth. That would be silly.

But just in case. [Archers] and [Mages] trained their arrows on the gates. The Sharkcaptain crowed and pointed to Asale.

See? Wait for itthat damned coach is coming!

Asale rolled his eyes. The Admiral of the Supply doubted Magnolia Reinhart was so stupid as to do something expected. Indeed, no pink carriage came out of the gates.

But Magnolia Reinhart did.

The Sharkcaptain choked on his own words. He stared as a figure filled the gates nearest the Thronebearers.

Archers!

You idiot. Belay that order. We will not assassinate a [Lady] of the Five Families in the open!

The Admiral of the Land roared at the Sharkcaptain. Bows went up and untensed, as the [Lady] halted there. Asales spyglass was one of thousands on her. What was she doing?

Well, standing there. But that wasnt what made Asales eye lock on her and realize she was playing a different game from the impulsive Zeresian army. His gaze swung sideways.

Ah. That would bethe First Gardener of Oteslia. Bows. Down.

Shaerrha Brasswing stood beside Magnolia Reinhart. She looked shaky with nerves. Magnolia was sereneor at least, outwardly composed. The Sharkcaptain, Femar, hesitated.

What in the name of Creler nests is she doing out there?

Well. Standing with Magnolia Reinhart. And thenwalking forwards. Asale saw Magnolia Reinhart glance around, smile, and make a comment.

To a tall [Maid] who produced a parasol, a pink one, and opened it over boths heads. On her right, Mivifa of Feathers strode forwards, grim, staring around at the army in front of them. And behind them came Oteslias guard. And

Thats a [Druid]. One of Oteslias finest.

The Admiral of the Land was slower to catch on. Asale just lowered his spyglass when he saw another face.

And Wall Lord Ilvriss of Salazsar. His sister too. If eyes dont mistake, that was Wall Lord Aldonss.

What are they doing?

Walking, you idiot.

Diplomat Nerul was striding along in a new shirt, rubbing his claws together happily and waving for any scrying orb that might be there. Asale rubbed at his face.

You just walked into their trap.

Nonsense. We have an army. Do they want to be captured?

Oh, please, Femar. Yes, lets capture the First Gardener of Oteslia, Magnolia Reinhart, and multiple Wall Lords and Ladies of different cities. If we even got closeI count three Named-rank threats. Theres Shriekbladeand theres Saliss of Lights. Four. And look at the walls.

The Drakes looked up. Asale pointed out more figures had joined Oteslias [Soldiers]. Who were now manning the walls as if they expected an attack. The figures wore [Maid] or [Butler] uniforms and they carriedpresents.

Bows. A spear. A box you did not want opened in your direction. They had, of course, been meant as gifts, and many werent combat items. But if they had to give them to Zeres army

We are not going to attack. Send word to 1st Marines. Tell them to let the Thronebearers go.

Asale sighed. Femar spluttered.

Im going to

If you go down there, Sharkcaptain of Zeres

The Admiral of the Supply, who was a peer to his cousins with levelsand seldom gave orders, raised his voice. Even Femar stopped, and turned, full of anger.

What? What will you do?

Asale glared at him.

Ill save a recording and play it in every barracks in all of Zeres. Not that Id be the only one.

Femar hesitated. Magnolia Reinhart was proceeding slowly across one of the bridges, waving at the disbelieving Ser Dalimont. Asale sighed.

Idiot.

He had probably helped Magnolia Reinhart more than he could believe. Admiral Asale looked at the image that would be playing on every scrying orb.

Grand Magus Eldavin looked at the young womanno, the woman, walking with her head raised, smiling, chatting, at ease.

As Zeres army drew back. They could attack. An arrow could claim her lifewell, if it got past her ring. But would they attack?

For there walked the First Gardener, Mivifa, Wall Lord Ilvriss, and more. Would you attack? Because you could. And if you did, it was war. But if there was a chance of peace

You did it.

Eldavin looked at Magnolia. Thenclutched at his heart. Why did it hurt? But he never took his eyes off of her. Gnolls and Drakes and Humans, walking together, to stop some idiots from getting slaughtered. Daring an army to attack. Knowing full well they wouldnt dare.

A message. Asale leaned on his chair. Not for the first time, he regretted not accepting Magnolias invitation to Oteslia weeks ago, the Serpentine Matriarchs will or not. He was so focused on the events outside, he nearly missed the next bit.

Inspire them. She was doing it. Just what Lyonette had wanted. Magnolia Reinhart had looked out and seen the Thronebearers wallowing in a trap of their own stupidity

And shed gone to save them. Not for them, but because of what it could mean. Shed talked the First Gardener into it, Ilvriss, and the rest. Some had resistedand it had been no less than Wall Lord Aldonss who agreed first.

Lyonette du Marquin stood on the steps of the ballroom, watching the small group going to thumb its nose at Zeres depart. She would have gone with Magnolia, but the [Lady] had stopped her.

Not you, Miss Solstice. I think you and the poor unfortunates out there should not be, ah, together on scrying orb. Dont you?

That was completely reasonable. So Lyonette remained. She didnt fear for the [Knights], yet dreaded their arrival. Magnolia might save her some trouble by convincing them to keep their heads down.

Maybe they could go after Mrsha. For once she didnt dread them as much, not with the cunning [Lady] on her side. Lyonette was wavering, as Cire chased after Rafaema, who was sitting, head in her knees, not with the others.

Naturally, that was when Wilovan and Ratici found her.

Lyonette! Get inside!

A Gnoll tore up the stairs, followed by a blur of a figure. Lyonette looked down. He was singed head to toe. His clothing was battered and he had cuts showing through his fur.

Wilovan?

Ratici was hot on his heels. The Gentlemen Callers barked one word.

Assassins!

Lyonette saw them a second later. Ratici leapt, snatched an arrow out of the air as Lyonette turned and ran. In truth, they misnamed what was coming for her.

[Assassins] used stealth and cunning and had shown how poorly they did in a stand-up fight in the north. The Second Gardener didnt have many, if any in his Gang. He just sent a mob to kill Lyonette.

Dozens of figures were swarming up the steps, blades in hand. Someone screamed for the Watch as Lyonette looked towards the ballroom. The ballroom filled with people and few guards now, who would be diced in seconds and had so many openings

This way!

Ratici pointed and she raced down the steps. Of all the times! Magnolia wasnt here, nor was Saliss, or anyone else! Even the staff had gone!

Kill the Human!

Why are they after me?

Flowers.

Wilovan bellowed. He and Ratici charged down the street. The [Thug] turned, saw a wagon, and bellowed.

Off your seat, sir!

A Gnoll had a second to gawp before Wilovan was up. He tore the Gnoll out, tossed him onto the street, and to Lyonettes surprise, didnt commandeer the wagonit would be too slow. Rather, he cut the horses loose by ripping their harness off the wagon, then strode around and struck two wheels with clinical blows.

The wagon collapsed, and Wilovan grunted.

Ratici

On it.

A wall of dirt rose, blocking the rest of the street, aside from a single opening. Wilovan glanced at Lyonette.

Inside this building, Miss. Sword out. We just have to wait for Mister Saliss. Dont move. Ratici will have the inside. Ill stand here.

He set himself. Grimly, calmly. Lyonette felt her throat constricting. Her heart pounding. What madness was this?

She didnt know, not knowing what had passed with the two. But she did know a dead man when she saw one.

She saw Erin lying on the ground.

No. Wilovandont

Glad we could get to you, Miss Lyonette. We owe a Rickel a favor. A good man. This is the place, Ratici.

A good place, Wilovan.

The two tipped hats. Lyonette saw Wilovan take a huge breath. He turned, and smiled jauntily at a mob of low-level, deadly, unscrupulous men and women. Then he bellowed, for perhaps the first time in memory.

Watch! Summon the Watch!

They never slowed.

As Magnolia Reinhart greeted the Thronebearers, outside the gates, someone came pelting to get them nearly ten minutes after the mob first attacked Lyonette, shoutingIlvriss turned, cursing, and Saliss blurred. Too late. Everyone who was moving, moved.

A hat lay on the ground. A man made his stand. He should not die. A [Princess] beseeched him, and a fellow tried to honor her request.

It was golden. It was a shout.

[Boon of the Princess]!

Out in the open, but she didnt care. A Gnoll, a [Gentleman Thug], a contradiction in terms, laughed, as it whispered in his mind. It was so bright. Was this real magic?

His club never sang. It just struck and it was a sick thing, as sick as the beast was, without a hat. He held the gap as they went over the top of the walls and wagon. But they came for him. Trying to get past the guardian.

When it fell, they died. But they had knives and arrows. Here came the Gnoll with claws, dodging past two sacrificial pawns. He slashed, six times in a moment, and Wilovan waited for the sting and burn. A fool with a sword ran him through the side.

Too many to dodge. Not for a big lad. The two looked down in shock. Atthe torn fabric. The sword literally running through Wilovans sideacross his fur. His poor coat.

[He Scratched Only Thread].

A club descended on the swordsman as the Gnoll leapt backwards with a cry of alarm. The Drake staggered, alive, but shaking his head, bewildered. Heeding not the cries.

[I Struck Him Deaf].

Until he fell dead, Raticis blades buried in his throat. The [Thug] laughed. It was so golden. No, so bright. Was it just in his head?

It wasnt. As the others backed down and Zanzeil fled backwards, and Ecleeif stopped, took one look at the furious duo, and carefully slapped himself with a stray brick and lay down in the alleyway, the rest saw the light.

It did not come from Wilovans Skill. It camefrom a ring. It should have been bronze. Or it had been. Now, it was gold. It was shining.

The [Worldly Princess] stared at it. What wasthis? She saw a ring, the very same ring that Erin Solstice had once worn. A giftfrom the Wall Lord of Salazsar light up.

At last. When you needed it. When, and where it mattered most. Just a formality. A trinket that spelled out a single word.

SALAZSAR.

The light burst upwards. In a distant Walled City, an alarm rang.

A Daughter of the Walls calls for aid!

Ilvriss?

They were alarmed. What was wrong? The people stared at the scrying orb where Ilvriss was turning, looking back at Oteslia. The scrying orb was on delay, so they saw the beam of light shoot upwards from inside the City of Growth.

Ilvriss definitely wasnt wearing the ring.

But what did it do? Lyonette stared at the glowing ring that had activated due to her distress and fear. Calanfer had objects just like that. Seraphel had a tiara that shielded her from danger, and so on.

Lyonettes ring of [Fireballs] was pointed, but Wilovan was in the line of fire. Her sword in her free hand that held the glowing ring. Yet it hadnt exactly done more than scare the army of criminals.

To be fairthat was good. But they realized the light wasnt harming or hindering them in any way.

Its just a trick! Get her!

Zanzeil, the Gnoll with the Creler-claws, pushed at a low-level [Knifer]. There were nearly eighty in the attack wave left, and the boss himself was on the way since he wanted blood.

Andthe Watch wasnt attacking. Cirediel hesitated as he watched. Hed been about to come to Lyonettes aid, but there were so many. He raised the brick hed picked up.

ImIm

Why was the Watch not coming? Pegasus Riders were circling, but an armored core had yet to advance. They were pointing. Seeing something.

Lady Rafaema, dont!

Out of my way!

A furious struggle to the side. The only other person who had remained who could help, Rafaema, was struggling with Makhir and Ferris. Both Gnolls had her wings pinned and she was bashing both, Ferris taking the worst of it since Makhir was behind her. Her mouth was sparking, but they were holding her back.

We cannot risk

Cire stared at the two. Then at Lyonette, and the glowing ring. Someone was aiming a bow at her! Where was the Watch?

Cire, stand back.

Arent you going to save her?

The [Guardsman] hesitated. Cire squared his shoulders. He ran forward, brick raised. If they didnt go for Lyonette, then

I wouldnt do that, Cire.

Someone blocked him. Cire wavered, but a claw shot out and plucked the brick from his claw before he could move. A huge figure barred the way. He had an impressive physique, not muscled, but a telltale discolored patch on his neck. Wellnewly grown scales too.

The Second Gardener, flanked by the last of the Faces under his command, saw spears rise. Instantly, Oteslias Watch converged.

Let go of the First Gardeners son.

A warning voice. Neverwhine and his hound hesitated. Even the two-headed dog stared up at nigh on four dozen bows trained on them. But the Drake never moved. He tossed the brick aside.

Hello, Cire. Dont worry, its all fine. Theyll be out of our city soon enough.

He grinned at Cire. The Dragon stared up at him. Nonot at his face, or build, which were foreign. But at that patch on his neck. His voice trembled.

Poruniv? Is that?

Cires old friend looked around at the Watch, who gritted their teeth in silence. At Oteslias flying guard, who looked at each other in silent alarm.

Neither Dragon moved, though Rafaema struggled. The light

A press of bodies around the wagon and walls. [Thugs] and [Thieves] and worse gathered around.

Someone kill that damned Human already!

A roar from the frustrated Face leading them. One of the [Thugs], armed with a deadly hammera literal hammer, but so deadly if you swung it hard on either endwas queued up. He didnt want to die, but there were only three of them. All one needed was to get past the [Thief] and [Thug] and strike once.

Someone jogged up and joined the crowd trying not to foul each other up.

Hey, are you all here to kill that Human?

Thats right! What are you, an idiot? Where were you?

The [Sneak Thug] snapped at a Drake. The figure caught his breath.

Sorry. I have no idea whats going on. But youre here to kill a Human with a ring? Red hair? Right over there? Exactly forty one paces?

The [Thug] hesitated. He stared at the Drake. It wasnt Saliss of Lights; you tended to notice nudity fast. Nor Ilvriss. Nor anyone he personally knew. The Drake was, if anything, just some random Drake. A [Trader]?

Yeah.

Oh, good.

The Drake backed up. Then he produced a vase, for some reasonbecause he was a [Pottery Trader], but that was unnecessary background detailand crashed it into the [Thug]s face. The Drake went down and figures turned.

What the hell?

A [Thief] raised a dagger uncertainly as the [Trader] gulped. He stabbed, but an armored hand grabbed it. The [Thief] looked up into two burninglenses? An armored face. An armored body, ruby-red.

Rubirel Guard! To the aid of the walls!

A Drake with a halberd decapitated the [Thief]. The crowd of criminals whirled. They saw three bodyguards crash into the mob.

Reinforcements! Get

Attack! Attack! In the name of Salazsar!

Something bounced off Zanziels head. The Face saw a furiouslittleDrake woman throw more items from her purse. Suddenly, he realized more figures were emerging, literally running forwards and hurling objects, drawing blades.

Salazsar!

Another object bounced off his face. He looked around.

What the

Then more figures broke forwards. Even Oteslias [Guards], some of them. But mostly travellers, people who had moved, but anyone whobelonged. Allies, citizens. Summoned by the ring.

Salazsars last defenders.

Lyonette saw a mob sweep into the side of the small group of killers. Drakes, Gnolls, civilians, aside from a few of them with actual armor and weapons. The criminals turned, caught off-guard and already nervous. A few began to attack back, like at the old Drake lady waving a cane.

Wilovan snarled, but saw Zanzeil, the Face, slash someone across the arm before they could slash the little figure.

Retreat! Get out of here! That damned ring

More figures were sprinting towards them. And this timea blurring shape came up the street. Zanzeil took one look at Saliss of Lights, followed by Mivifa of Feathers shooting out of the skies, and ran for it.

Poruniv stared as his attack failed. He stared at that damned ringthen at Cire. Mivifa was flying towards him, and she had seen the Second Gardener.

Damn.

He twisted a ring and a spear jabbed, but he distorted out of reality before he was touched. Mivifa landed, as Saliss of Lights threw an orb at the retreating criminals running for bolt-holes, many boxed in and surrendering.

Rafaema was still howling, though. She was shuddering, striking the paws holding her. She was enraged. Noburning

Rafaema of Manus. Enough. You are hurting your people.

Only when the voice spoke did she come to her senses. She looked around, and saw Magnolia Reinhart standing there. The [Lady] was a bit winded, but watched Ilvriss and the sons and daughters of Salazsar charging into the cityas well as their allies. Anyone who truly had ever made an oath to defend Salazsar. Shed heard of the rings; more ornamental than useful. Never seen one used.

But it was to Rafaema that Magnolia turned now. The Drake was panting, wild-eyed.

Let go of

Then and only then she saw the bloody-faced Gnoll, still holding onto her. Ferris? Rafaema lowered her arms. Makhir was bleeding, but not nearly as badly wounded.

What amI didnt

Her head had gone white. Shed been ready to fight, but they had held her back and she had thought she was going to die like when that Drake, Onieva, got her. But shed been ready to fight.

Ferris?

Rafaema reached for him, and then doubled over. She nearly fell, and this time Makhir was holding onto her.

Wall Lady Rafaema? Wall Lady! Are you well? Lady Reinhart, back upget a [Battlefield Healer]!

Makhir snapped at Manus [Soldiers]. Ferris tried to rise, and Rafaema was clutching at her chest. It hurt. What was? She felt like she was going to explode, all of a sudden.

Oh, be quiet, Hunt Commander. What a mess. Rafaema. Rafaema, do you hear me?

A voice. It was so knowing, so pervasive, it even fought through the Lightning Dragons confusion. She shuddered, unable to do more than listen. Something terrible was trying to emerge. She fought now, to keep the lightning from exiting her lungs.

Listen to me. Do not let it out, here. Fly. Do you hear me? Fly as high as you can. Go! Fly!

How did she know? How did

Rafaema was in the air before she could think. Her wings strained, but the magic carried her up. Makhir, held back from Magnolia by Ressa, saw his charge fly straight up. Her eyes were glowing. Her mouth was opening and

Something burst out of Rafaema. A sudden change in her. Near-death, Magnolias speech, somethingmany things, a confluence of it. An awakening.

Makhir and Ferris saw it. The First Gardener, hurrying towards Cire, Manus itself, watching the events on the scrying orb, suddenly focused on a figure streaking up, high over Oteslia. So high even the great tree receded. No one noticed at first.

They did when the sky split in half and a bolt of lightning pierced the heavens. A strike so thunderous every cloud discharged all the rain within it.

Gigantic leaves fell from Oteslias tree. Every animal in a thousand miles screamedand then hid. Makhir stared up as Rafaema lurched in the air, then discharged a second, smaller blast. How did that woman?

Stress. My word. You would think Manus of all places knows how to rear Oldbloods.

Magnolia winked at Makhir, then lost her smile. She pinched the bridge of her nose. Oh dear.

Ressa. Tell me Im not seeing what Im seeing?

You are blind and deaf and stupid, Lady Reinhart.

Wonderful.

She had a nosebleed. Ressa offered a handkerchief to Magnolia as the [Lady] wiped at her nose. And stared at thescene.

The ionized air filled Oteslia. Outside, an army of Drakes was in disarray. No less than the Admiral of Supply himself came to a halt, too late to save

Well, the Human. The young woman with fiery, just, striking red hair, a certain complexion of the features, blue eyes, standing with two weary men with hats by her side like bodyguards. Or [Knights] of the street.

Which took nothing away from the actual [Knights], battered, dirty, yes, who had come to a halt and thrown themselves into kneeling postures before her. Just to complete the moment? The high tension in the air, the crowd of Salazsars Drakes, multiple famous individuals all here to see, the ringing in your ears after lightning split the world in half and the rain pattering down, revealing gold on the armor, and that shining ring on her finger?

Well, there was Wall Lord Ilvriss, curiously missing his ring himself. Wall Lady Navine and Helessia, shielded from the rain by a kindly [Combat Butler], both looked at the Human. The ring. The [Knights].

All that was missing was a scrying orb. Fortunately, Ressa had slapped and deactivated every one she could see. But here it was.

Oteslia. City of Growth. Rickel laughed until he nearly fell off the rooftop he was watching from. He sipped a cup of coffee and laughed in delight.

You loved to see it.

Authors Note: I can, of course, check Twitch chat when I write, which is a hindrance and a help. But sometimes I can tell if a chapter is good or notand be surprised either way.

I feel this is stronger. It has the flaws of a web serial, but I was in the zone, which applies to writers as well as athletes. Anyone can do it in any scenario, I think.

This was 20,000 words over two days, and18,000 in one sitting. One of the longest chapters Ive written, albeit in two parts how I posted it. The reason it came out this way is because of how Ive learned to write, even over the last few years.

It is not that I become better at every chapter I do. I have ups and downs. But my new system of writing over three days, rather than one, allows more chances for quality to emerge. Me streaming live-writing, doing things like exercising before I write, stretching, all sometimes click together for my best chapters.

Now, was this one of them? I dont know. That would be your decision. But I felt good writing it. It may rush in places, especially near the end, some parts especially prose might suffer as I work onwards, but it is spontaneous, even though parts are planned. How it comes out is random. Likeexperimental cooking. Every now and then you get a nice cake.

Thanks for reading.

Zel vs Ilvriss by Curry, commissioned by Ayutac!

Gothics, Yellat Day, and more, by LeChat!

Wyrm, Fetohep, Mushroom, and more by Brack!