Interlude – Hectval (Pt. 3)

Interlude – Hectval (Pt. 3)

Selys, [Heiress]

Two and a quarter months since the army marched upon Hectval, the city felt different. A month was a long time. A year was a long time.

To Selys, it felt like it had flashed by in some senses. Dragged on after Erins death. But the war

Liscor was changing. Not a day went by when she didnt hear of some new enterprise like Liscor Hunted, or receive news from her friends across the world. The Meeting of Tribes, the King of Destruction not dying, Wistram, Ailendamus versus the Dawn Concordatthose were worldwide events. Everyone watched the news and learned, well, to stop worrying.

It had seemed, when the television news stories first came out, that when a war happened or a battle was broadcast, it was going on right next to you. Then you realizedit was Chandrar or Terandria. Youd never go there, most likely, and the repercussions were abstract.

At the same time, you got invested. In a very real sense, as Drassi put itthe audience of television learned how to be an audience.

Compared to that, some things were close to home. And that was Liscors war with Hectval. Not the army. The army had left their home. Compared to that, Hectval was a real threat. One that Liscorians felt more than a vague animosity towards.

However, time changed how people felt. The first shock of casualties coming in, hearing rumors of the carnage on the frontSelys had heard howling every time someone brought the casualty lists. She had seen people gathered around the [Criers], and later seen the lists appended to boards in the plaza because no [City Crier] wanted to deliver the news themselves.

She still saw it two months in, but the war had taken a different kind of space in peoples heads. These days she heard people arguing about it.

Enlist? Are you mad? Do you want to end up with one less leg? Momll hit you if you even say it.

A pair of brother and sister Drakes were arguing fiercely. Selys turned her head as Drassi slurped Imanis next incarnation of boba tea. The two friends listened in. The younger brother, perhaps eighteen, looked adamant.

Theres a signing bonus. Im not Antinium. Ill survive and level up and then become a Bronze-rank.

A Bronze-rank? Im telling Mother. Youre cracked in the head. You want to go into the dungeon? Thats suicide unless youre Silverno, Gold-rank. Youd be safer in the army!

Aha! So you admit signing up as a [Soldier] is safer.

The younger brother looked victorious, as if hed scored a profound victory in their debate. His older sister stepped on his tail. Unlike Humans and Gnolls, who learned how to pinch ears, the yelping Drakes weak spot was his tail.

Youre not doing it. If you really want levels, go sign up as an adventurer or [Guard]! Even Celum would be safer. Im not waiting around one of the announcement boards to see your name on a list. Those poor Antswhat happens when they stop fighting?

Those poor Ants. Selys watched the younger brother keep arguing as he backed away from the stompy boots threatening his tail. Youd have never, never heard that a year ago. Maybe poor Senior Guardsman Klbkch in context with did you hear what that idiot Relc just did?, but never that.

Drassi commented out of the corner of her mouth as the two siblings left.

I hear its going better. I think. Hectval is moving back.

Hm? When did you hear that?

Selys looked up and saw her childhood friend, Drassi, finally stop sucking fruit-boba up a straw. Instantly, Drassi began talking, and the absence of sound had been an irregularity in Drassi-world.

Drassi Tewing talked like Selys breathed. It wasnt even just that she wanted to, sometimes it seemed like she had to. Yet the Drake was as bubbly as her light yellow scales most of the time. Friendlyand cuttingly honest, which people were surprised by.

Drassi didnt lie. However, the former [Barmaid] turned [Bartender] whod also been a [Secretary]and failed out of a lot of her jobs until meeting Erinhad a more professional look nowadays.

In fact, she even had an Amulet of Disguise on her that made her less noticeable. Drassi was the [Honest Reporter] of Wistram News Network; she often wore less of a dress than something like the business casual being pioneered by Lady Magnolia Reinhart and a few [Ladies], whod begun vying with the other [Seamstresses] to occupy the market.

You could buy fashion from Invrisil that had that particular Earth-style vibe to the clothing, although only Selys knew it as coming from there. Something with less frills and adornmentsthe modern style of Earth that went for that kind of simplistic design with few main colors.

Selys preferred more variety, but it was popular enough to have tags, like a Sitil-tagafter Lady Wuvren Sitil.

Funnily, there was also a new line of sports-wear that apparently came from House Ulta. Selys had looked into clothing herself, but she didnt have an in with anyone she wanted to work with. Shed been trying to get Bezale, the Minotauress, to give her a contact.

All of that was Liscor, but the war was the kind of thing people talked about. Selys and Drassi, in their bi-weekly meetups at the Drunken Gnoll, often exchanged news. Olesm sometimes sent news back to the Council, and Selys heard drips and drabs from Elirr and Tekshia, which she relayed to Drassi.

However, the irony was that Drassi didnt cover Liscors war with the Hectval Alliance. Selys looked at her friend.

How dyou know about the state of Hectval? Is Wistram News Network going to report it after all?

The [Reporter] shook her head, stretching out her claws.

Nope. I just talk with some of the wounded. I saw a group of [Soldiers] on leavethey told me.

Theyre on leave? They can come back through the door?

Drassi nodded, chomping on a spring-roll, baked until it was just crunchy but not hard, filled with a more meat-based filling for Drakes and Gnolls.

Two lucky squads per week. Olesm must have talked the Council into allowing it. Its a fair mana drain, but it seems like he thinks its good for morale, and the [Soldiers] loved it. Lottery. And no, Wistram refuses to let me cover it.

Selys frowned.

Still? Even with Manus?

Drassi looked around sourly and lowered her voice. She tapped a ring on her finger, and Selys blinked as Drassi activated a silence spell. Palt, trotting by, gave them a wounded glancewhich was probably because he wanted to listen in. Selys massaged one earhole; it felt like it was filled with cotton.

Sorry, Selys. Work. Anyways. I talked with Grand Magus Eldavin. He told me theres no shot. ItsAntinium. And when he says that its worth my jobits not like Relz or Noass. Speaking of which, something big is going down in Wistram soon. Eldavin has a big announcement in our television segment next week. No one knows what its about, and Noass and Relz are kicking a fuss up.

She sighed.

I hate them.

Selys made a face. She didnt care for either Drake herself.

If theyre so bad

Drassi waved a claw, trying to swallow another spring roll in a single bite.

I dont hate hate them, but theyre just so snooty sometimes. Noass is actually a bit worse than Relz, but neither ones evil. They just say the same thing Wistram does, though. Antinium bad. I wish I could introduce them to Garry or Pawn, but they wont go to Liscor after the Rock Crabs incident.

The famous one where both nearly got eaten by a Rock Crab on Liscor Hunteds inauguration? Selys smirked. Then she stirred her cup of tea. Palt trotted past them, looking worried. Drassi lowered the [Silence] spell, and both heard Imani kicking up a fuss.

What? What? Palt, get in here! Palt

Yes, my unshod darling?

The two Drakes waited as Palt vanished inside the inn. Drassi nodded after a while, apropos of nothing.

Yeah. Poor Antinium.

Olesm had decided to tell Liscorians how many Antinium died in battle. The numberswell. A few years ago, maybe Liscorians would have felt vaguely shocked or bad, but now that Antinium had names, colorsif you dwelled on it, it made you ask some hard questions.

Some people wouldnt dwell on it. Some did. Selys worried about Olesm and felt vaguely sick about the Antiniumwhen she focused on them. What would Erin have done? At the same timeshe hoped Olesm got to one of those cities and knocked in a wall or two. They were the reason her first real Human friend was dead.

She turned her head as Imani burst out of her kitchen, and Palt caught her in a clatter of hooves. She was waving something that had just arrived via City Runner bulk delivery by way of Pallass, addressed to her. She shouted one word, and Selys instincts told her it mattered.

Coffee! Coffee!

Drassi and Selys turned, and Selys began looking for another investment opportunity. That was all they said about the war as Drassi walked headfirst into an addictive drug perfectly suited for her personality. Neither one thought of Hectvals war until the commendation began to be posted in the plazas, and the Council appended their own statement to Commander Olesms address. When Selys did read it, later, it was simple, and made her think of them again.

Olesm, [Commander]

The war continued. The day after he saw a single Antinium holding off Manus finest, [Commander] Olesm Swifttail of Liscor debriefed Dekass, Zimrah, and every other officer who had witnessed Crusader 51s last stand.

The Prognugator could not explain how a single Soldierthe Antiniums one deserterhad come back and saved the Antinium. The Painted Antinium, who Manus had gone as far as to attack in camp, and even smash the mana stone to the portal door to stop from retreating, lived, thanks to him.

Olesm did not know Crusader 51s story. He had never met or talked to that particular Soldier. However, he could not shake the image of the Soldier raising a sword made of light high overhead, standing against Lulv.

No Antinium could, he was sure. That morning, Olesm watched as Zimrah began the sermons that had ended with Theophilus.

Other people were listening in. Scout Leader Maksie, Dekass, even non-antinium [Soldiers] whod been at the battle.

Ah, oops. One correction thereit wasnt Scout Leader Maksie, but [Scouting Lieutenant] Maksie. Everyone called her by her generic title, but Olesm tried to use her class now and then. It was a source of pride for her. Olesm had personally granted Maksie the class.

One class. One officer class, unlike [Squad Leader], which was technically a civilian class. Maksie didnt get it because she was 4th Company. She had made a fairly public break from her command.

She had gotten it from Olesm. The [Commander] had a new Skill.

[Officer Under Arms]. He had chosen Maksie for the honor after debating the others. Frankly, Olesm thought it eased her public rift with her 4th Company friends, especially because they were her family. In return, it brought her closer to the civilian-army. And the Antinium.

Right now, Olesm knew the Painted Antinium would be returning to the Free Hive with a letter from Dekass to the Free Queen, detailing the extraordinarytragicevents of yesterday.

The problem with Olesm was that he was changing. Instead of feeling just sorrow and grief, he almost felt relief. Hope.

Instead of hundreds, a single Soldier had died. Olesm mourned Crusader 51, but he felt inspired as well. And that made him a monster, he knew. But that brave Soldier had saved his comrades from a massacre.

A single Soldier had died. So Olesm sent something of his own back with Dekass letter and the Painted Antinium. He had proposed it to Dekass, and so the Prognugator had written a shortcommendation.

A public commendation from the commanding officer of the Antinium, Dekass of the Armored Hive, for the Antinium known as Crusader 51, Squad 5, Battalion 1. Olesm asked Lism to post it along with the casualty reports.

Dekass of the Armored Antinium wrote a posthumous commendation of Crusader 51 for valor in the face of overwhelming odds, engaging an enemy [Spearmaster] in a single duel, single-handedly saving hundreds of lives, if not thousands, slaying at least thirty of the enemy, and noted his dereliction of duty in flat terms. So flat that it was more effective than any flowery statements.

To Dekass own report, Olesm attached a simple missive to Liscors Council, the army, and the citizens of Liscor citing Crusader 51 as one of the most valorous soldiers under his command.

Such an impersonal, inadequate response for someone who had done so much. And the war continued.

Olesm drank his hot tea as he watched Zimrah preaching, repeating Crusader 51s name. He was tired, but waiting for the Councils response to one of his requests. It was another thing Olesm had thought of. Ohit wasnt a big secret. He had attached a note to Lism and the Council after his commendation and the rest of his report:

Councilmembers, in light of Crusader 51s heroism, I would like to request the Council allot a budget to increase the squads on weekly break rotation to 3, instead of 2. I understand this means sixty [Soldiers] will be using the doors mana, but given the circumstances, I would like to mandate one Antinium squad be given a break in the city with the other two non-Antinium squads.

Anticipating problems, I would welcome the Free Antiniums willingness to coordinate any squad on break. However, I believe the other two squads on break may volunteer to lead around the Antinium [Soldiers]. I hope I can count on your support for this initiative.

He believed theyd okay it by nightfall. Another piece of tinder for the fire in the Antiniums hearts. It wasnt Erins kindness that made Olesm do it. It was good for them. It was kind. But that wasnt why he did it.

The Drake was so caught up in listening to Zimrah and thinking of when to announce the lottery for vacation that he didnt hear the [Soldier] at first.

Commander Olesm, sir. Visitor for you.

Olesms mood of awed contemplation turned into sourness instantly. His claw tightened on his cup of tea, and he didnt look back to his tent.

I will kill that [Slaver] if I see him. Not right now, Artur.

The [Banner Leader], the nosiest Antinium who listened into all conversations, had become the camps unofficial [Messenger].

The Antinium holding his flag clicked his mandibles together in confusion, but he didnt immediately leave.

That is not who

A voice split the air, bright and cheery and completely foreign to Olesm.

Yayde Re~! Is that Olesm of Liscor I see? Ah, greetings! Could we exchange words?

The curious, warbling call made Olesm turn. He saw a peculiarly-armored Drake riding towards him, along with eighteen more on horseback. Their flag wasOlesm squinted at them.

He saw a curious Drake waving at him. Curious because heshe?had oddly-patterned armor all over their head and neck, the most complete helmet that Olesm had ever witnessed, and shoulder guards.

It looked akin to a [Knight]s helmet, but it was practically skin-tight, form-adhering, and it was stylized to mimic a Dragons head, giving the Drake and all eighteen [Soldiers] an odd, predatory look. The helmet even had tiny, tiny holes for their neck-spines to poke out of, and a few Drakes had even coated their neck-spines with iron barbs. If they turned their heads, you were in danger of being stabbed.

The helmet melded into the shoulder and neck-guards, forming a protective layer of metal or stonesome of the Drakes wore what looked like stone armorall the way down to their shoulders. Like the upper part of a cloak or mantle fused into their helmet.

It was the most sophisticated armor Olesm had seen: scale armor, interlinking, smoothly-moving plates, which were not fun for [Armorers] to make; they preferred pieces, just like how obnoxious chainmail was because of all the links interwoven together.

The complex head-and-shoulders piece abruptly ended at the shoulderblades, and was replaced by the most dull, paintediron armor that Olesm had seen.

The Drake officer waving at him had a sword at her waist, and she was riding a pony, not a stallion. Her other bodyguards had hatchets, simple longswords, spearsand a pickaxe? Olesm squinted at the odd mismatch.

What are they? Artur, who are they?

I do not know, sir. They identify themselves as emissaries of the Drake city of Yolden.

Yolden?

The name vaguely rang a bell. Olesm started towards the [Soldiers]. They were hardly unwatched; Liscors army had two squads eying them.

With a bit of confusion. As Olesm neared, he saw a second oddity. These Drakesand they were all Drakes, all nineteenall had the same, complex helmet-shoulderguard.

And iron armor. Or leather. Their officer had what looked like a steel sword, although it was carefully sheathed, but Olesm didnt even think they carried steel weapons. Ohand he realized that, instead of bows, they had slings hanging by their sides and an overfull, bulging bag of ammunition.

Rocks. Only their commander, who was goggling at Olesm, had a bow, and it looked like an heirloom. She leaned over her saddle, then got down hurriedly.

Yayde Re! Hello! Doine! Its an Antinium! Hold your weapons, everyone! Commander Olesm, Im from Yolden! [Captain] Voita, of the 22nd Command of the Yoldenite Army! Could I have a word?

She was the most unusual Drake that Olesm had ever met. From her strange, yodeling cry, to an accent that seemed to be half-shouting at him, to her odd phrasing and armorOlesm saw her gawking at Artur as he approached.

Captain Voita? The Yoldenite army?

Now Olesm recalled. Yolden. He had studied a map of the area. Wasnt Yolden another Drake city in this region? Even higher up in elevation than Hectval.

Were they going to fight too? He felt a sinking feeling, but surely if so, they wouldnt have announced themselves? And this Captain Voita and her squad were staring at the Antinium in a kind of horrified fascinationbut fascination as opposed to simple horror.

Many Drakes would attack or flee. Olesm thought quickly.

Artur, go find Wing Commander Embria if shes near our camp. Tell her to report at once. Greetings, Captain Voita. I apologize. Youve caught me at a poor time. We just finished a battle, and Imscatterbrained.

Ah, that mess back with all the flashin lights? We saw it from afar. Put our tails over our heads, so it did. Not that it wasnt encouraging. Sent the Drishy-Luly-Heckies packing, did you? Thats the Commander Olesm I came here to see! And your Liscorian army looks sharp as Metal Dragonbreath! I hope you and I can talk. Greetings from Yolden! The Township Councils all send their regards, and Im acting as representative.

Olesm knew Drassi. He had experienced a wall of words hitting his head, and he had learned how to wade through a chatterboxs offensive wave of dialogue. However, everything Voita said made his mind wrestle for a bit.

Voitas helmet revealed her face; it was oddly lax in a face-guard, but heavily armored upwards. Not even a chin-guardand she knew him.

You have me at a disadvantage, Captain Voita. Im afraid I dont know YoldensTownship? But your squad is welcome into Liscors camp. Youre welcome to keep mounted, but we can see to it you get some feed for your horses or a break if youre staying longer.

Oh! Dont mind if we do!

What looked like Voitas second in command instantly dismounted, and the entire squad was on their feet and stretching before Olesm could blink.

Got any good feed? Captain, where do we park?

Wherever the Commander wants you! I was hoping we could talk privately. Some of its command-level talk, sir.

Er

Olesm looked around, and every officer in range tried to duck. His claw found a [Tactician].

Merraw, feed, food, and maybe room around one of the fires for the Yoldenites. I will see Captain Voita in my tent. Send up some refreshments. Captain Voita, would you like to follow one of my [Soldiers] there? I apologize. I will be with you in five, ten minutes at most.

She nodded understandingly.

Thats very kind of you, Commander Olesm. Dont mind if I do. My girls and boys wont be any trouble or Ill make em go back home without their helmets!

She laughed as if that were a real threat and followed a Gnoll up the hill. Olesm rubbed at his head.

This was going to be weird.

Wing Commander Embria didnt keep a superior officer waiting. She galloped back, and, to Olesms surprise, he saw Artur riding a horse after her.

I got your message, Commander. Whats this about another city?

She looked vaguely worried. Olesm gestured at the squad of Yoldenites talking with some [Soldiers] from Liscor all dining on some rations.

We havean officer from Yolden who wants to meet me. I thought you might know who they were. What am I dealing with?

Embria frowned.

A who from where?

She knew most cities in this region, having campaigned across Izril. Olesm repeated the city.

Yolden. You dont know about them?

I dont knowevery city. Yolden. YoldenWikir! Vell! Get over here! On the double!

Both [Captains] raced over as Embria barked a command. Artur had dismounted and was feeding his horse an apple, patting it as the two [Captains] rode in. It was a mark of the times that Artur stood with them instead of either Gnoll or Drake giving him the stink-eye. Vell stood away from Artur, but that was it.

YoldenYoldenit rings a bell, yes? But where? Vell?

Arent they the ones who make great helmets? Whats the saying?

Vell snapped her claws, frowning. Artur came over.

I will take your horse, Captain Wikir? Unless you will ride back?

Oh. Thank youArtur.

The Gnoll distractedly handed him the reins. Vell did likewise, and Artur came back as she blinked.

Thats it! Commander Embria, remember? Whenever we go by here, High Command always makes some unlucky bastards like 6th ride up to Yolden and commission some gear.

Rightand whats the saying?

You cant kill a Yoldenite from above.

Vell began it, and Wikir and Embria finished the sentence. Olesm raised his brows.

So this is a famous city?

Nope.

All three officers shook their heads instantly as Artur looked from face to face. Vell glanced at the Yoldenites.

Look at that. Iron and leather armor, and thats a command squad. Slings.

Nothing wrong with a good sling. You can knock on someones head with one.

Wikir growled, amused. Vell glanced at him.

Okay, want to trade your shortbow for one? We could take that lot with our eyes closed. Even the Ants would dice them two-to-one.

I believe we would, yes, Captain Vell.

Vell jumped, then nodded at Artur.

Erright. See? Even our banner-guy could probably out-lead an officer in their army. This is a real border-city, Commander Olesm. Poor weapons, low-level

Why are they here?

Vell gave Olesm a blank look.

Maybe they want to trade for gear? Or theyre worried well come at them? I dont think theyre on Hectvals side.

Wikir growled.

Definitely not. Hectvals not unified with all the cities. Hrr. I cant tell you anything more, Commander. Liscors army doesnt fight Yolden or other border citiesno profit. Were hired for bigger battles. All I can tell you is that they have a weird city.

How weird? Commander Embria?

The [Wing Commander] frowned.

Something about townsthats all Ive got. Should we socialize?

Please. Ill send Artur for you if I need you, Embria. Be polite. No insultsno disparaging their armor, Vell.

Sir! I would never, to their faces. Oh, and whens the lottery for?

Wikir elbowed them, and Olesm headed towards his tent. He distinctly heard Artur whispering to Vell and Wikir.

It will be today. Commander Olesm will do a raffle of another two squads, but a third will be Antinium. Oh, and we are having a squash-based bread today because a shipment of squash was passed through the door

I hate squash.

Vell, do you enjoy any vegetable at all?

Olesm got a surprise when he entered his tent. He had his tent bodyguard readyit had occurred to him this might be an ambush. But what he found instead of an attack was Captain Voita helping herself to the food hed requested.

Oh, and shed found a bottle that wasnt meant for this moment and poured herself a cup.

Yayde Re~. Lovely tent and army you have, Commander Olesm. And its an honor to meet you again. I didnt want to spill over in front of my people, but Id love one of those autographs I hear people talking about on the scrying orbs.

From me? Excuse me, Captain VoitaIm glad youve settled in.

She had pulled the chair out and loaded up a plate. The Drake looked at Olesm, then hesitated.

Sorry, is this not good manners?

Voita looked so worried that Olesm lied.

No, no. I meant that seriously.

Ah, good, good! I didnt want to make a bad impression. They sent me because I volunteerednot that we have more than [Negotiators]! Plus, it was dangerous, even with our colors. The Heckies are jumpy as can be. You really rattled their heads.

She seemed quite pleased by that. Olesm sat down.

I think I need to start from the beginning. I confessI dont know much about Yolden, Captain Voita, so tell me if I make any mistakes. You came to meet me. You know me. An autograph? I dont think Ive done anything particularly noteworthy.

She laughed, then looked at him incredulously.

No? I saw you on the televisionwell, I also remember when everyone was talking about you. During the Goblin Lords advance, remember? Yolden was sending everyone to watch the Big Wall in case the Goblins came up in the mountainsand then we heard you shouted at Pallass! Pallass! I outrank you! I loved it.

Olesm turned scarlet as he realized she was referring to the very first time hed been on the news outside of maybe chess. When hed demanded aid from Pallass and other cities to hold Liscors walls.

That wasa long time ago.

Only a year. Mind you, I never thought Id meet you, what with Liscor being past the Bloodfields. Then we heard Liscord opened a road, and the towns debated sending someonebut Hectval got there first. Next we heard, you were cracking the Drisshia-Luldem-Hectval Alliance up. One versus three! We had to send someone, but the towns argued so much it took this long for them to send me. Were here to talk about an alliance. I shouldve led with that.

Olesms mind spun.

Youre opposed to the Hectvalthe Alliance as well?

Voita gave Olesm a look over her food, which she was inspecting as if it were new and foreign to her, especially the squash.

We hate em. Hectval-Luldem-Drisshia? The Alliance members are the three biggest bullies around. Course we came to you if it looked like we could team up and get even. You think youre the only ones who hate them? Weve hated them for years.

Voita had reminded Olesm a lot of Drassi, an odd Drassi, but now the first bit of real Drake entered her tone as her tail curled up and she glared. Olesm sat back as his heart began to beat.

He hadnt considered it, but the first officer, Voita, made him realize how blind hed been. On a larger strategic scale than combat. Other Drake cities had obviously heard about Hectvals war with Liscor. It just hadnt occurred to Olesm to look for allies.

Liscor was so uniquely cut off that allies or enemies were a foreign concept to them. Now, Olesms world opened. Voita was only too happy to explain where she was from.

You cant see us from here, but were higher than Hectval. Truthfully, were closest to Drisshia, and theyre the city we feud with. All the time. They own the iron mines. You saw their heavies? Steel. It makes fighting them really hard. Not that Liscors behind! I saw your [Soldiers]. All of em have steel?

She gave Olesm an impressed look. He shook his head.

Thatsstandard gear for Liscors Watch. Leather too, but we bought up all our equipment, and the Antinium provided their own.

Huh. Where from?

He was stumped.

Celum, Liscor, EsthelmEsthelm is a mining city. Invrisil, Pallass

She appeared frankly envious.

We have to buy from Drisshia. Or hope a [Merchant] decides ours is a good trade route or sends a caravan out. Theyve got the monopoly. Hectvals got their bows, Luldem has their magicYoldens not the biggest tail around. I dont know if you noticed.

Olesm very carefully kept his face straight.

Your [Soldiers] looked quite professional.

Voita gave Olesm a toothy smile that told him she knew he was being nice.

Doine, Commander Olesm, no need to be polite. Weve lost enough battles with the Alliance to know were behind. Not that they get over the Big Wall.

Tell me about that. Big Wall? Is Yolden atown?

She shook her head.

No, its a citysort of. Big Walls the curtain wall around our towns. See? One big wallwe hold off foes there. And Yoldens around Yodemite. Thats the name of the enchanted mountain. Throws off some magical stonesnothing like Salazsar. Ever heard of pumice?

Olesm stared. Yolden was a city that, among its pastures and wide, wide land area, was more like a rural collection of widely-spaced towns behind a single, long curtain wall. They were nestled with their backs to a sometimes-unpredictable mountain filled with lighter stones.

Pumice, which was a stone so light it floated on water. Olesm had to see that. He saw a stone that was pale beige, so weak it was crumbly, with tiny airholes, come out of Voitas pouch. She handed it over with a faint blush.

Its good for taking off dead scales. Put it in a cup. See?

Is itmagical?

Olesm watched as the rock bobbed in some water. Voita shook her head.

We wish! Just light. Weve got it all lying about. Something about old Yodemite makes some stones floattheres decent mining up there, but stones fall down all the time. You can get brained by one, and even pumice hitting from high enough caves in your skull. So we wear this. See?

She tapped her odd headpiece, and Olesm realized why the helmets were so elaborate. It was a perfect shoulder and head-guard to ward off pieces of stone falling from above. Even children apparently had them, and the only times you took them off were indoors.

This isfascinating. So the Alliance isnt friendly to Yolden.

She snorted.

Friendly? Weve paid tribute to themthe Townships have to send a lot of our sheepies. No one likes them, but who can beat three cities all teamed up and close together? Weve tried. Yolden joins up with Naughtl, and even Fillen, but we dont trust them all the timewe hold our own. Then Liscor appeared, and we thoughtwe have to reach out, Antinium or not.

Olesm glanced at Voitas face. She had a big smile, perhaps because this was all so exciting to her, and an oddly metallic sheen to her scales, which were almost grey-orange. Metallic orange.

Youll forgive me if Im skeptical, Captain Voita, but yours would be the only city Ive ever met that didnt treat the Antinium as a greater threat than anything.

Oh, the Black Tide? We know theyre nastybut we hate the Heckies more. That was the big argument, see? However, Yolden didnt suffer siege in the Antinium Wars, either one. We sent our girls and guys out, and some didnt come back, but the Antinium never made it to us. They focused on Luldem! Hah!

Ah, there was the pettiness. Olesm relaxed and offered Voita more of his Amentus wine. She was remarkably free with his things. It seemed Yolden was the kind of place where anything left out was fair gameso they hid anything they didnt want guests to touch. Which was everything.

Drakes with a twist. Voita explained Yoldens history in the Antinium Wars.

They never came up this far. Yolden hasnt ever seen an Antinium. We have a few heads mounted as souvenirser

She trailed off. Olesm gave her a steady look.

I see. But the Antinium arent as much of a threat as the Heckies. Is this a formal offer or just an inquiry to see what were like, Captain Voita? I am pleased to talk to you, but I trust youll represent your entire city. Or do you not have that authority?

Uneasily, she sat up and, though flustered, spoke professionally.

No, sir! I can speak for the Township. However, I will need them to vote on agreement. But were prepared to vote fast. Frankly, sir, no one wants to lose the chance to get back whats ours. Im with 22nd Command; each town has their own force, and Im from the last one.

Twenty-two towns? Go on.

Olesm had learned the fine art of negotiation from Maviola and, to some extent, Chaldion as well. He was friendlyup to a point. But Voita deferred to him, which meant he had all his cards in his clawand some of hers.

It seemed like Yolden really wanted a friend.And they really didnt want to bleed much.

See, we could hit Drisshias mines. Tie up some of their forces. Theyve got a big, fat one theyre practically leaving open. If your army ties up their forces

Yolden gets to take a mine, and we bleed for it. Im not interested in giving Yolden free real estate, Captain Voita. Why should my [Soldiers], whove been fighting and dying for two months, distract Drisshia long enough for Yolden to swoop in? If we take Drisshias mines, Id rather collapse them or take control ourselves.

She blanched.

What? Collapse them? Take control?

Why not?

Wellwe fight over them! We could really use the iron.

Olesm smiled and looked past Voita at a map of the region.

So will Yolden fight Liscor?

NoCommander, weve gotten on the wrong foot. Clearly! Doine, were not proposing Liscor do all the work!

That sounds like what you just offered me. Lets try again. Why hasnt Yolden already attacked? My guess is that you dont care to antagonize Drisshia in case this war ends and they turn on you.

Voita nodded uneasily, trying to stay ahead of the conversation. Olesm knew what it must be like. She wanted him to like her, and she had to report back to her Township. He knew what it was like to be a young officer who suddenly ran into a grandmaster chess player or suddenly had to deal with the threat of war.

Now that he was on the other side of it, he felt vaguely bad for herand did exactly what would have given him cold sweats, putting her tail over the fire.

What can Yolden offer me? I mean real forces, Captain Voita. Enforced by a magical contract. I have to report back to Liscors Council as well, but I am [Strategist] for Liscor. Lets say Yolden wants those mines. How much are they willing to pay to keep them?

Ina share of the ore? Gold?

Voita looked uneasy. Olesm gave her an incredulous stare.

No, I mean how many [Soldiers] are they willing to spare? How many for a mine? Because if you want Liscor to back you after the war is done, I want at least a thousand.

A thousand?

Convince me. How many [Soldiers] does Yolden have? Whats your distribution of forces?

The poor [Captain] gave Olesm the standing number of Yoldens army for free and realized halfway through him grilling her about their locations that she really should have held onto that. Olesm really did feel bad for her, so he signed her an autograph card. Then asked if shed ever wanted to visit Pallass.

Embria, [Wing Commander]

Ancestors, hes hanging her out to dry.

Wing Commander Embria was listening to the conversation in Olesms tent. He could have warded it, but he hadnt, instead letting her listen in. She shifted, and the other person listening in nodded.

Commander Olesm is quite unkind. He has Captain Voita on the back foot. He should press the charge. Unless that is not how you win verbal wars?

Artur, the [Banner Leader], stood with his banner, almost invisible. He was conspicuous as a Worker standing behind a pole of wood, but he was so still that you forgot he was there. Embria hesitated. She looked at the Antinium and replied.

Iershe might back out, but Ive seen the army negotiate. They tend to hang anyone trying to cheat us out to dry. You have to; small-time cities can be as bad as big ones.

Artur nodded reasonably.

In that case, I am glad he is being so mean.

Mean? Embria listened. Olesm was offering Voita a chance to look at his Kaalblade.

Steel? Liscor has steel. We also have access to two major cities, Human and Drake. Would you accept a gift? I have a fine, enchanted dagger. Perhaps you could show it to the Township as a symbol of relations? Oh, and you should have one meal before you go. Liscor has its own delicacies.

It was surprisingly mean. Embria had always thought of Olesm as somewhat of a nice guy. The war was making her rethink that.

She was actually a bit surprised Artur thought this was all fine. Embria frowned at him.

Youre Artur, arent you?

Yes, Wing Commander Embria.

I thought Antinium liked being nice? I never saw those Workers and Soldiers at The Wandering Inn so much as curse. I thought youd be all for hugs and kisses.

Artur craned his head as Olesm poked his own head out of the tent to order a pizzaand Liscors own diplomatic core and Council to get in on this.

If Yolden does not commit its forces, more of our [Soldiers] will die. So he should press her as hard as he can.

You mean, Antinium Soldiers?

Artur gave Embria a look. She blinked because it could only be described aswithering.

I mean, Liscors [Soldiers]. Do not be an idiot, Wing Commander. Sir.

He gave her a three-handed salute, one hand holding onto his flag. Wing Commander Embrias mouth worked.

Sorry.

The Antinium were changing. Wing Commander Embria didnt speak much to Artur; she was busy meeting Captain Voita and watching Olesm impress upon her and her squad just how much she wanted to make this alliance work.

We need to talk to the other cities, Wing Commander. I suggest [Message] spells rather than sending runners. Ill put the Council on it. Stupid of me not to think of it.

Yes, sir. I meanno, sir. I can pull 4th Company and see if they can glean any tidbits about which cities are trustworthy or useful.

Do that. Oh, and Wing Commander? I have a lottery for you to bring back to Bepols troops. Tell him I want him to take his rally point in the next two days or Ill have his tail.

Perhaps it was the directness. Olesm didnt try to coddle peoples feelings. He could, and he had soothed Bepols ego at the start. However, these days he had a carrot and stick in either claw, and hed smack you with both if he had to. Or feed you the stick.

That was how Embria had experienced command in Liscors regular army. She returned to her command with Wikir and Vell, and found three members of 4th Company were in trouble. And that Division Leader Bepol had personally come to sort out an altercation in her absence.

They started it!

Bepol glared but let Wing Commander Embria sort out Igessis squad. The Wing Commander saw Wikir walk down the row of [Soldiers], smacking them.

You idiots. Were 4th Company. Youre starting brawls with the army?

Not us, Wing Commander! They started it!

Oh, and someone wants to pick a fight with 4th Company. Who did?

Vell raised a boot to kick a surprisingly battered-looking [Corporal], and the Gnoll burst out.

The Ants! They jumped us!

Embria unfolded her arms.

What?

Bepol had two Antinium squads of ten placed among their ranks. Ostensibly to let Liscors [Soldiers] see them fight alongside them. Unofficially? Embria guessed it was a kind of reward for a lucky squad.

They didnt get minced up with the rest of the poor bastards by Manus. Although Embria had heard a single Soldier somehow held off Manus and saved the Painted Antinium. That had to be a rumor, but she wasnt heartbroken that they got away.

There was definitely a change in the Antinium. The [Corporal] looked uneasy.

We were just talking, and one of them heaved over and punched Samuls lights out! We nearly stabbed them, but they fought with their fists, and Commander Bepol himself stopped it.

Antinium punched you? Why? Did you provoke them?

Vell was incredulous. The [Corporal] visibly hesitated.

N-no? We were just, uh, talking

Embrias eyes narrowed. Another [Soldier] confessed.

We might have been saying something about thecasualties? Like how the Painted Antinium werent as good as everyone said? Thenbam!

Wikir hesitated, looking at Embria. The Drake growled.

So you badmouthed them, and you were surprised when one of their own decided to knock your face in? Corporal, if someone said the Gnolls on Chandrar deserved what they got, what would you do?

The Gnoll [Corporal] protested.

Yes, Wing Commander, Id give them the Liscorian handshake, but theyre Ants.

Embria hesitated.

I know. Butdont do it again. Just dont. And if any of 4th Company starts a fight that gets to Commander Olesm, Ill let him kick you all into the latrine. Besides.

BesidesVell had her arms folded, but Wikir finished it.

Theyre getting chewed up and spat out, no? Stow it.

Vell blinked. She looked from Wikir to Embria. The Wing Commander slowly nodded.

Exactly. So shut the hell up and get ready to join the latrine diggers.

Odd, odd, odd. Embria didnt like it. Not the Antinium punching out anyone who bad-mouthed them. Or them getting more dangerous.

She didnt likeknowing Arturs name. Or feeling embarrassed when she said something stupid. She hated to admit it, but she had a vague uncertainty in the back of her head. She resisted itlike she would have resisted Olesm giving her an Antinium squad to command.

But part of her feared that her hatred of the Antinium? The dislike of them being in the army? She feared that one day, shed wake up, or blink, and the reason would unravel like a piece of thread.

And if she thought like thatperhaps it was already undone. But the truth would come out later. Embria did not have to wait long for results after Yoldens forces encountered Liscor. Manus kept coming at the Antinium lines, but with noticeable hesitancy after the mystery of Crusader 51. And elsewhere?

The stalled warfront slowly began to break as a second new force entered the mix.

Vess, [Arcane Warrior]

When he reached his class consolidation, Vess was Level 20. Hed reached Level 20 during the war, and Big Yam threw him a celebration.

Prodigy! We have a real prodigy here!

Velden crowed, and Vess grinned as they dumped a mug of beer over his head. This was allowed; the High Command had let Big Yam celebrate.

It was rare for someone to hit Level 20 so fast. Even in war! Vess heard people commenting about it.

Another Zel. Thats what it is. You know how he got to that level? Before the damn Ants were fighting against us and the world was upside-down

His smile vanished, and Velden looked around with a glare.

Hey. Shut up. Dont go ruining the night with that. I dont want to hear their name.

Antinium. They haunted Vess dreams. Not just the sight of them in their armor, or the voices that sometimes called out to him. Everything.

Click. The way their mandibles clicked. They way they would swing all four arms when you only had two, how they refused to die. Even with the [Mercenaries] attacking them.

Everyone knew they were from Manus. No one said it, but everyone knew. Yet there was no confirmation, and Vess wondered why a giant army of tens of thousands didnt help beat Liscor. Velden couldnt guess, only that Manus didnt want to start another Antinium War. But they needed it.

They were

Losing.

An [Arcane Warrior] like Vess could channel magic through the sword he carried. He created a temporary enchantment[Stored Shock]and electrocuted anyone who clashed swords with him. He could throw multiple [Light Arrows] out of his wand and reinforce his shield.

Big Yam was now a veteran squad who could hit the soup and come out in more or less one piece. That meant, ironically, they were safer. They didnt eat the horrific [Instantaneous Barrage] Skill that all of the Alliance had learned to fear.

Nor were they facing Liscors right wing. Some of Hectvals forces rotated into Big Yams when they went to the center to help push against Liscor there. Luldems squad found themselves sharing tents with hollow-eyed [Soldiers] who jumped at every shadow.

Theyre in the ground. Theyre in the ground.

One of the Drakes whispered at Velden. She rocked back and forth, holding her tail like a child.

They were in this cave. One second we thought we were safethen we realized theyd squeezed into cracks in the wall. They waited for us, then crept out andand the traps! Theres bear traps all over. You take one step and you lose a leg. And while youre bleeding out

Shut up. Dont demoralize everyone with that shit!

The [Sergeants], Velden and a traumatized Drake, were whispering in a corner. It made Vess scales grow cold. The other [Sergeant] from Hectval laughed, a touch hysterically.

Look at you lot from Luldem! You dont know what weve seen!

You think were having fun with the Antinium here? Guess you dont know about the immortal sniper. Even Manus cant get rid of it.

The Hectval [Soldiers] looked up.

The what?

There was a killer haunting the Alliance. It appeared across the battlegroundmostly on the left and middle, but almost always around the Antiniums deployment. Nor did this [Archer] stick to battles, though every officer now kept their heads low, abandoning easy markers like plumes or badges to show their rank.

[Sentries] end up dead with an arrow in their neck. Sometimes just one. Or a [Sergeant] gets shot mid-charge. Or

And Manus doesnt stop them?

Someone laughed.

Manus? Theyre the ones who get shot at the most! I hear their commanders hopping mad. They keep killing the sniperor so they say. The next day? Someone else gets shot.

I hear they found the Antiniuma Workerhacked it up, burned the pieces, and watched it all night. Then one of the crew guarding the pieces got an arrow straight through the back.

Vess shuddered. This was one of the things that there was no way to fight against. The Alliance was fighting Liscor because, if they lost, so High Command assured the [Soldiers], the Antinium would slaughter their cities. They fought because the Antinium were allied with Liscor, those bastards.

However, morale was at an all-time low. The right wing had apparently near-daily mutinies. The immortal Antinium sniper was one of the legends keeping [Soldiers] up at night and scanning for a sight of a bow and a Worker.

But there were alsotangible things to fear.

Like

The Minotaur.

Vess saw him appear in a battle the day after that. He charged down the slope as Liscors army came after him, ahead of the others.

A giant MinotaurVess aimed his wand, and eight [Light Arrows] bounced off the Minotaurs hide. Arrows broke against his skin and armor. He raised an axe and roared.

Beriad of the Free Antinium! Death before dishonor! Charge!

Behind him, thirty Antinium streamed towards Drisshias [Soldiers]. This was no ordinary grouping. The Minotaur had begun going into battle with allies. Worse? They fought like he did.

He rammed forwards, head lowered, one huge arm raised. An axe as wide as Vess chest rose and came down towards a [Soldier] holding a shield.

The Gnolls will broke, and she tried to dodgethe axe fell, and no one survived that. The Minotaur pivoted, and the axe slammed into another [Soldier]. He kicked someone, shattering a leg, and that axe rose.

No defending. No hesitation or dodging. Stab me. Attack me. Challenge me! The Minotaurs eyes were red, and he roared.

A blow for a blow.

The Antinium behind him all carried two-handed weapons. Battleaxes, greatswords, maulsthey charged in, trading a swing for a swing.

Beriad?

That was what they called themselves. Or he called them.

The Minotaur appeared in another battle before the lines met. Both sides were trading magic and missiles, and Vess saw the Minotaur holding the axe up as his squad waited on the front lines. Then, as they waited for the order to charge, he heard a strange sound.

Thud. Thud, thud, THUD.

A rhythmic boom. A heavy echo that ran through the ground. Vess looked upand saw the Minotaur and Antinium, hundreds of them, stomping in unison.

A rhythm. The Minotaur was leading them. The Antinium struck the ground with their feet as one. They kept their weapons up, shields raisedyet this was a way to make sound, even while keeping their guard up.

The Alliance jeered and shouted curses, screaming at the Antinium, but the organized sound made their voices falter. The Minotaur was staring at them. And the Antinium

Challenge. Me.

The Minotaur walked in front of the stomping line of Antinium. They lookedangry. Fierce. There was something more in their insectile stare that made Vess shudder.

It hadnt been there at the start of the war. Before, they had beenangry? Nownow. Vess thought they wanted to kill him.

It was his doing. The Minotaur turned his back to the Alliances lines. He walked forward, ignoring an arrow that cracked on the back of his head. The bits of wood splintered off the Minotaurs horns, and he brushed a piece away from one ear.

The scars. He had as many scars on his back as his front. His fur rippled as his muscled arm rose. The axe rose into the sky, and the light was harsh.

Hot. The Minotaurs fur stood out with sweat. His voice was a bellow, as if you had given a bull words. It shook as he addressed the Antinium.

Not in the throes of madness, though. There was something grave about the way he addressed them, as they stomped their feet, helmets raised, peeking out at him from behind their shields.

No mindless berserker. No raging bull-man. He spoke to them like a warrior.

Antinium of the Free Hive! When a warrior of the House of Minos is judged worthy, in character, in might of arms, they are given leave to depart our shores. It is not just strength or the ability to kill that marks a true warrior.

He walked down their lines. A bolt of lightning flashed across the ground, and every piece of him lit up. The [Minotaur] staggered. Turned his head.

Snorted. And went on.

Those are the Beriad. It means, to our people, in our tongueaway. Away from home. They will fight and die from our shores. But they are of our home, and they will never forget.

He aimed his axe at the Antinium as their stomping slowed.

You are Beriad! You have left your Hive! If you die on these soils, or wherever you fallyou are true warriors. You are the Beriad of the Free Antinium. Give them no reprieve. Fear no end. You will not find your equals ahead of you. They stand at your backs. Now

He turned and aimed his axe ahead.

For the honor of Hammerad and Liscor! Charge!

The Minotaurs feet churned the ground as he took off. Again, he lit up as a bolt of lightning struck him. A howling [Battle Mage] threw fire, engulfing the Minotaur, and the [Archers] focused on him as if he were magnetic. Bring him down! Bring him

A howling Minotaur, mouth opened like a crimson red furnace, pounded towards the Alliances front. Behind him came the Antinium. Vess claw shook on his wand.

He wouldnt die. He saw the first [Soldiers] begin to break and run. Too late. Too late.

The axe came down like the slowest bolt of lightning in the world and shook the earth.

When they took the Antinium prisoner, Big Yam was close to breaking themselves.

The Painted Antinium had entered the war. Painted Antinium. Who spoke. Who used Skills! Who

Died.

Manus had gone through their ranks like a hot poker through a block of butter. Vess thought hed seen that [Spearmaster] fight before, but it was nothing compared to the whirlwind the Gnoll turned into.

And the spells! Something was in the skies! [Mages]? Maybehe saw Tier 4 spells hitting the ground. Tier 5 spells tearing the Antinium apart.

Thank the Ancestors.

Velden whispered. Big Yam looked up and saw Liscor fall back in disarray. Thank the Ancestors indeed. When Vess saw that, he thought they could win.

And he also wondered why Manus didnt fight harder. Why those [Mercenaries] didnt fight every battle.

Vess didnt know. His squad picked through the battlefield, taking some Liscor [Soldiers] captive.

No Antinium. No one even bothered; they never surrendered. You had to kill them dead. Instead, Big Yam occupied themselves with a grisly task they had fought for:

Looting the dead for weapons and gear.

Not just for themselves. Vess had pocketed a dagger with a jewel on it and tried to fence it with the [Quartermaster]. Hed gotten fifteen lashes for that, so Velden had helped him send it home with some gifts to his family. It was good coin.

And an enchanted blade or weapon could save you. So even the Antinium were fair game, though youd only get a steel weaponthat was still better than most could afford outside the army.

Vess had heard these Painted Antinium had enchanted gear, so he was rolling over bodies and staring at green blood. He heard someone from his squad exclaim.

Hey. Hey, that Antinium who was shouting is over there. The one with robes on its armor. Look.

Vess looked up and saw the Antinium who the [Spearmaster] had personally killed lying on the ground. Another Antinium was right next to it. Both had died in an odd posture.

One was propped against the other, mandibles still open, a hole through its chestmultiple holes, Vess realized. Green blood had stained the white robes and run down the steel armor.

The second Antinium, a burly Soldier with only two arms, had diedstrangely. It knelt, two arms cradling the Worker, supporting it. Green blood painted its armor, and it had a mace lying next to it.

Dented, worthless. Vess walked forwards, staring at the glowing club in the Workers hand. He wondered how the Soldier had died. Then, as he reached out for the club, he saw something.

Did that mandible just move? Vess froze and stared at the Soldier. Hed definitely seen ittwitch. Then he saw, ever-so-slightly, the shoulders rise and fall.

It was breathing. It was

Ancestors! Its alive!

The [Arcane Warrior] shouted in horror. He leapt backwards, and Big Yam stumbled away, bringing their weapons up. Vess aimed his wand at the Soldiers head and realizedit hadnt moved.

It had raised the dented helmet slowly. The two arms on its left side were still holding the Worker, but the Soldier turned to stare at him. It didnt attack.

Blast it, Vess! Shoot it

One of the [Archers] was circling for an angle, and Vess lifted his wand. He hesitated. Was the Soldier mortally wounded? It looked like it had taken some damage, but it wasnt attacking. It was

Hold on! Hold on!

Velden roared. He yanked the bow down, and Big Yam turned to him. The [Sergeant] looked at the Antinium Soldier.

Itstake it prisoner.

Big Yam stared at him incredulously. Yet the Drake looked at Vess and then turned.

Someone get rope! Alert High Command! Tell themtell them weve got an Antinium prisoner! The first one! Ever!

Big Yam hesitated, but Velden was their [Sergeant]. Vess hissed at him.

Are you mad, Velden? Itll attack!

He thought Velden had lost it, but then the Drake [Veteran] turned and whispered back.

It could be our ticket out of the next battle if were guarding it!

Vess saw the desperate gleam in Veldens eyes. He realized this wasnt about intel or novelty, just Velden trying to keep them alive another battle. Even so

The Soldier was looking at him. Vess aimed his wand straight between its eyes. At his level and this range, he could blow a hole through its head. Velden watched Vess.

He wouldnt stop the [Arcane Warrior]. Nor would Big Yam, none of whom wanted to touch the thing. They could run it through. Vess hesitated and saw the Soldier waiting. Waiting

Vess lowered the wand and backed up. Ropes came, and Big Yam looped them around the Soldier, binding and rebinding itthen yanked it off its feet. The instant the Soldier was down, they resecured it, and began kicking it until Velden told them to leave it alive.

Vess didnt join in. Nor had he killed the Soldier. Not because he bought into Veldens plan to get them out of the fighting.

Simply because he didnt kill unarmed soldiers. And he might have been persuaded there was no such thing with Antiniumbut a realization had shocked Vess more than anything else.

The Soldier had been holding the Workers body. As if he were mourning him.

That was how Crusader 53 entered into Big Yams custody. And the end of the warat least, for Vessarrived.

Lulv, [Spearmaster]

A question ran through the Gnolls mind again and again.

Are we making a terrible mistake?

Not just in the Security Councils supposition about the nature of the Antinium. Lulv had already doubted that.

He was a loyal son of Manus. Born and raised in the walls. Hed lived through the Antinium Wars, and he remembered when Nagas and the North were the enemies to fear. Lulv knew almost all of Manus dirty operations and dark secrets.

And their hope. Rafaema wasnt just a Dragon for Luciva and Drakes. Lulv wanted her to become the Dragonspeaker of Manus. The leader who would treat Gnolls and Drakes fairly. Forwhile Manus made no distinction between the two as [Soldiers]it was a Drake city.

Rafaemahe and Makhir believed she would change Izril for the better. However, the future grew more uncertain with each passing year.

What was that Antiniums class?

No one knew. Some had speculated they had no class, but Lulv had seen that shining sword rise overhead, not magic, nor any ability the Antinium could feasibly create.

A hidden class. Perhaps it was some anti-appraisal gear. That was what Sokkel thought.

On an entire army? No. So the question that echoed in Lulvs mind wasamong other things

Who was Squad 5?

Who waswho had beenCrusader 51?

It was that unease that followed him. Oddities in battle.

The snipers back. We killed a Worker. We chopped it up, burned the body. Either its an entire unit ortheres something about the arrows.

Lulv met with his officers and inspected another one. Practically shrapnel.

It went through the armor, [Spearmaster]. Back plate. [Hardening] enchantmentGrade II. Didnt go through the front; didnt have to. The shrapnel kept going and shredded the insides. The force behind itits the same [Archer].

Then its something were not seeing. Body doubles. A Skill, a classget a research team on it and put the [Mages] on [Detect Life] spells.

All the time, sir? Theyll reveal their position. And Strategist Olesm has advanced his class. [Delegate Skill]. That damn Drake scout can use his [Instantaneous Barrage] Skill. Our Wyverns are under threat.

Sokkel protested. Lulv growled.

Do it. You have authorization to take her out.

Yes, sir.

A balancing act. Lulv was an aggressive [Spearmaster]. He had earned his class not by killing other [Spearmasters]though he had done thatbut originally by receiving the level just by virtue of his sheer ability in battle.

He practiced a Manus-style spear school that favored high mobility, rapid attacks, and thrusting stabs. However, a [Spearmaster] could adapt. Had to adapt.

If we crush Liscor, we weaken our frontline, and at this point, the city must stand. Manus had originally written it off as a casualty of the Third Antinium War given the Free Antiniums Hive.

Now? Liscor was a liability and an asset. It provided unparalleled viewpoints into the Antiniumyet they were clearly benefiting from the relationship. At the same time, Tyrion Veltras near-conquest of the city proved it needed to be in Drake control.

Andwell, Lulvs vote went to making Liscor an asset rather than weakening it, because it had Gnolls on the Council. It could be a model.

Hectval was part of a trio of cities that didnt add anything to the region. They forced Gnoll tribes out of their radius of influence, made war on Drake cities they could defeat. If Lulv had a side, it was Liscor.

The Antinium were the complication. So Lulv had stayed away from ordering Olesm sniped. If they could even manage it; he had magical protections. The world needed a [Strategist] of his level.

He was justtoo good at his job. And at the same time, Liscors army was feeding Manus information as well.

I have the full report. It took some doing to wrangle out of the Cyclops grip, but someone must have pushed Pallass hard. Sir.

Read it to me.

Lulv snapped. Sokkel summarized the report for the [Spearmaster].

Crusader 51. Squad 5, Battalion 1. A deserter who fled for about three weeks. The first Antinium deserter ever registered, apparently. Commander Olesm did not pursue himlets see. One of the original volunteers. Apparently gifted with the sword enough to have Calruz of Hammerad teach him personally. Uhuhmentions of the Antinium having that unique class. Nothing more.

Crusader 51. Where did the intel come from?

A Division Leader Bepol. Pallass officer. Enlisted and commanding their center wing. Hes not happy about you, [Spearmaster]. It looks like hes requested multiple times for Pallass to pull Manus out.

Multiple agents of Walled Cities were in Liscors army, Lulv had no doubt. Manus got whatever the other Walled Cities deigned to share; since this involved the Antinium, even the Cyclops, Chaldion, was more open. Sokkel grinned as he paged through the document.

I think theres a note appended to us. Bastard wrote, I hope Manus enjoyed that last battle. I have no idea how Crusader 51 did that, but say hello to the next one.

That was so striking foranyone to say from a Walled City. Lulv still ground his teeth together.

Crusader 51. If you had to rate those Skills and that class consolidation, what would you put it as, Sokkel?

The Drake hesitated.

It was highly subjective, and we didnt know the entire level or class

Give me a straight answer. Dont dance. Answer.

[Paladin]. Or if were putting it into classes we field? Eh[Arcane Spear]. Rare, high-value class. Incredible abilities defensively.

Lulv nodded. He saw the other officers look uneasy. The Antinium had a high-value class beyond [Soldier]? That was what you didnt want to see in the enemy. And the most striking thing of all?

The Antinium thought so, too.

Free Queen, [Ant Queen]

Dekass commendation of Crusader 51 struck Liscor one way. His private summary of Crusader 51s abilities and ability to hold off Manus finest hit the Queens of the Antinium like an explosion.

Squad 5. Crusader 51. Is there anything interesting about this Antinium that you knew of, Pawn? Garry?

Both Workers summoned to stand before the Free Queen shook their heads. Garry very nervously, for the Free Queen was not alone. Pawn answered for both of them.

No, my Queen. He was a [Crusader]. He wasvery brave. I believe he had some talent with the sword.

To what extent would talent qualify? Inferior to the Custodium. Quantify that ability; does it have any bearing on this [Crusader] class?

An authoritative voice. The Free Queen clicked her mandibles irritably; the Grand Queen was listening in. However, the Grand Queen was being permitted to listen in, and that was the Free Queens [Crusader] who had proved his value.

Her [Crusader]. Her Antinium were dying. It bothered the Free Queen more and more. She missed Bird, too. She stuffed her face with a triple-stuffed pizza as Pawn tried to explain, but another Queen cut him off.

It would appear that Klbkchhezeims statements about the Free Antiniums potential were not exaggerated at all. Although I had supreme confidence in his words, the proof is undeniable. Even if it is one among five thousandthat is a far more acceptable gain than even Prognugator-based creation.

The Silent Queen was fascinated by everything and demanded constant updates. The Free Queen liked her, as a fellow student of Bessachidia, the last great Shaper Queen she had known. Even if the Silent Queen thought she was superior.

Purely random. One instance is not a statistic but an outlier.

Except that a [Banner Leader] has been created. And the existence of the Painted Antinium. The loss of this Crusader 51 is unfortunate.

The Armored Queens dolorous tones sounded next, and the huffing Grand Queen fell silent. What she didnt say, what they were all realizing, was that the Free Antinium were passing even the Free Queens wildest boasts.

The benefit is undeniable. I still weigh it as too costly considering Xrns injuries. Is she well, Free Queen?

The Grand Queen managed at last, and the Free Queen clicked her mandibles with the other Queens. She could not deny that, but she resented the fact that the Grand Queen made it a point of comparison at all.

She isstable, Grand Queen. I believe she will speak to you privately.

Stable. The Grand Queen instantly changed the subject, but the other two Queens seemed less focused on her, and more on Pawn, the report.

Crusader 51, Squad 5. The Free Queen had not known his name, but it was being read through all of Liscor. She wondered

Pawn. What would be appropriate for the commendation of this [Crusader]? I do not know how a military commendation is to be received.

She muted the Grand Queen as she spoke to Pawn. The Antinium looked up.

He is dead, my Queen. I would love to honor him, but I have nothing but his name to write on the Memory Wall. Perhaps though

He hesitated, and looked at Garry.

Dekass did write, um, a request. Could Crusader 51 possibly bereturned? Via the Rite of Anastases?

The Grand Queen had heard that. She stopped speaking, and the Free Queens feelers moved slightly. All four Queens moved their antennae, and the Silent Queen answered.

Individual Pawn of the Antinium. Given the nature of yourrank, you are privy to Antinium secrets. This is one which you will not divulge. However, in the interest of preserving the Free Antiniums war strength, is it acceptable to tell him, Grand Queen?

Granted.

She answered shortly. The Silent Queen rubbed her top-most feelers together.

The Rite of Anastases is a highly intensive process a Queen may undertake. It is costly in far more resources than are acceptable for all but Prognugators or fellow Queens

Not that we could repair their bodies.

No. But it was considered

Silence.

That was straying too close to where the Twisted Queens radical thinking had gone to. The risksbut having a mobile, small body? The Free Queen saw Pawn and Garry look from Queen to Queen.

The Silent Queen hurried on.

It requires more than simply one or more Queens efforts, however. The Drakes are not aware that to preserve a life, the Antinium who perishes must be within the authority of a Queen. Within the range of a Unitasis Network orclose to a Prognugator trained in linking with a Queen.

Pawn digested that. His antennae drooped.

Oh. Then Crusader 51 and the others were lost. I wondered if

He glanced at the Free Queen.

Could Dekass and Tersk not have done it? They were on the front

Their helmets block their abilities. It is a choice made to safeguard each Armored Antinium. I may adjust their helmets. Hither to this momentI had not considered the need.

The Armored Queen murmured. The Free Queen looked down at Pawn and Garry. So now they knew. The Rite of Anastases was not easy to performnor could it be done remotely, not without a link.

If Bird died far from the Hive, he would never come back. But she had told him that. And he went.

As for Crusader 51? He was dead. The Free Queen spoke briefly.

6th Company were an all-mounted unit. The Bull Bastards. 9th Company, and the wayward 11th whod escorted Relc, were like 4th Company, infantry-based.

9th was just called Arrowstorma group specializing in long-ranged archery. Ironically, 6th Companys leader was female, Wing Commander Narkr. Wing Commander Xith of 9th was older than both Embria and Narkr by far.

The instant they saw Embria, their eyes lit up.

So theres the idiot who couldnt handle one dungeon and needed to call in for backup! How dare you not defeat Tyrion Veltras and all the Humans yourself?

Narkr, a Gnoll with two scars on her cheeks, loved to say things deadpan. Rumor was shed taken the scar on one cheek and inflicted the other herself. Embria was fairly sure that was just a rumor, though.

Wing Commander, what Narkr means is that were here to back you up. Sorry it took so long. None of us have long-distance mobility Skills, and Pallass wouldnt let us skip four hundred miles.

Mana concerns or something.

Xith and Narkr shook Embrias claw as she smiled at them.

I know Narkr was to blame. She probably kept you all waiting on her. 6th? Did they have to send me the slowest cavalry unit? 9th and 11th will move faster than them!

It was true 6th was one of the slower groups, specializing in heavy charges, so Narkr threw a punch, and Embria deflected it.

Still not a [Spearmaster]?

Still unmarried?

Alright, alright. Im glad I dont have to lead you two and you can hold your tails.

Xith interrupted. The Drake looked at the other two Wing Commanders. As they were all of a rank, Xith would have priority command despite 4th being lower in number. Seniority. However, in practice, Wing Commanders were supposed to be able to work together.

They didnt send anyone higher? No [Majors]? I didnt expect our [Strategists]none of our field [Tacticians]?

They were eating in Embrias tent as Xith replied.

Seeing as how this force is being led by a [Strategist], the brass decided to send proper leadership. When they heard he sensibly expanded 4th, they told us to just take over a wing. Not sure if were ruffling any scales, but you can tell us how green this lot is.

11th makes four companies. Enough to send Hectval packing. If Manus is in itwell, thats ugly. But once we wrap this up, well help you patrol, maybe even get another fighting force into line. Take the pressure off the Council so they stop enlisting bugs as [Soldiers]. I saw them coming in. Dont know how you did it alone, Embria, but weve got your tail.

And there it was. Embria realized why she felt vaguely uneasy. Xith almost went to spit before he checked the floor.

Ants. Are they getting munched up by Manus? I hope sohows this Commander Olesm? And how badly are the civvies getting destroyed?

Embria looked at them. She saw two familiar friends from the army. Narkr and Xith werent the closest, but Embria appreciated Narkrs dry humor, and Xith always spoke highly of Relc in private.

Andthey were partly strangers. As both companies had ridden in, theyd glared daggers at the Antinium and come in like 4th Company had when they first arrived at Liscor.

Like they expected to take charge and set all things right. Embria recalled the numerous rude awakenings Zevara had given her.

What happened next? Well, Embria had a vision of her saying somethingand remembered Maksie standing to attention as Olesm removed her from command.

She thought of her father, who 4th Company still didnt speak to. She didnt want that. InsteadEmbria poured a full mug for each and pushed it over.

Ah, well. Its actually [Commander] Olesm. He got the class. Maksies actually a [Scouting Lieutenant].

What? That luckythatll rattle up command. So hes not all hot air?

Nope. [Instantaneous Barrage] is his best Skill. Nasty. Oh, and youll meet Bepol and Ramia, [Division Leaders]. Pretty sharp given its civilian-based classing. I bet you well all be roving, though youll definitely take more [Soldiers] under command. Ohand on the right, theres [Combined Arms Strategist] Belgrade.

Narkr choked on her drink of a flat Liscorian ale.

They put a fucking Ant in charge of our right wing? How has no one mutinied? Or are they running off each day?

Embria offered Xith a mug, smiled, and looked at them. Here it came.

Youd have to ask them. But Id watch yourselves. They call themselves Belgrades Ants, all of his command. And Narkr, Xithtell 6th and 9th to watch their tongues. Because if theres a brawl, Commander Olesmll send your forces back or discharge them from the ranks.

Both Drake and Gnoll stopped drinking.

You cant be serious. Is that what you have to deal with, Embria? We can make a stand

The Wing Commander took a breath and looked as seriously as possible at them. If it were her, talking to herhow could she convince them?

Rattle them. Say it as if they were on the same side and she was reluctantly

I hate to say it, but he could discharge all three of our companies and 11th and still win the war. The armys stacking up. Theyre real [Soldiers], you two, and you should be careful.

Xith and Narkr looked at her like she was insane. But Embria kept talking. She had to show them. The easiest thing to do was let them see the first battles with Olesm and compare that to the army. Even if they saidprobably still accuratelythat Olesm wasnt as good as their [Strategists], a [Soldier] had to face facts. And Embria poured them a drink and told themwhat they needed to hear before they could realize the truth.

[Wing Commander Level 29!]

Embria shot up in her bed, sweating and gasping. More terrified of that one level up than anything else. She waited for a Skill or

[Combined Arms Wing Commander]. Or [Buggy Wing Commander].

It didnt come. But would it? She lay in her bed. She thought

Then came Relc Grasstongues little bit of brilliance, and she was proud of her father. After three days, Squad 5, Significant Beavers, and the other squads on break returned to the army.

They brought gifts.

Ishkr, [Head Waiter]

Gifts? Of course. Its so intelligent. Relc thought of it, yes? Relc?

The Gnoll heard the idea from Drassi. The inn was so quiet and seldom-visited that he was one of the last to know.

It was a simple idea, and people laughedas much at the idea as goofy old Relc had thought of it aswell. Embarrassment.

It was such a good idea, and so simple. Relc hadnt thought it up from nothing. He had just pulled it from the past. Tradition and perhapsIshkr looked around the inn.

From here.

It has to be small. You cant address it to one group; you can send something to a relative, but otherwise just something small for the door.

What would be appropriate?

The Gnoll saw Drassi pause, fiddling with a neck-spine ringshe was about to go on her television shift, but shed come up to let him know when and where it would be expected.

Relc said something edible usually works. You can send potions, books, anything elsebut food is always welcome. Im sending a song crystal. He says something like that would really lift spirits.

Hrr. I could send acid flies.

What, as weapons? Oh. Do you have any?

Ishkr shuddered.

I maintained Erins traps. The Antinium come to collect them, sometimes.

Drassi hesitated. Shed just had breakfast, but the [Gossip] had to know.

How many?

I have begun filling barrels with them when they pile up. Sometimes a few survive.

The Drake went pale.

Ishkr, you are a credit to your class. I dont know how you

She trailed off, looking around the inn. Ishkr looked at Drassi and spoke.

Shell be back.

The Drake turned to him. She met Ishkrs gaze and smiled, relieved.

Of course.

The Gnoll said nothing more. Drassi had to run, and he had to think of a gift. Besides, those words could mean anything.

It was justa feeling. Perhaps it was only his imagination.

Or, perhaps, it had something to do with a little Goblin appearing in his inn. A Cave Goblin, who handed him a little note.

Soon.

He didnt voice any suspicions to even Drassi. Ishkr just waited, wishing Silveran were here to do floorboard crack cleaning. He thought of a gift to send to the army. He thought of the Antinium, who had come to this inn to pledge to go to war.

Oh.

The [Head Waiter] hesitated. He walked past the cupboards of preserved food, and he did roll out a barrel of acid flies. Anything to get rid of them. Apparently some acid flies survived the explosion of acid, and he had the horrible suspicion it rustled sometimes.

Then he went to fetch something else. Ishkr vanished for a little bit and came back with a very strange gift. One that Commander Olesm himself came to receive.

The Drake gave Ishkr an odd look, like someone who noticed Erins silent help for the first time. He realized that no one Erin employed could ever be normal.

Drassi was just louder.

Do you think it will help?

Ithink its a [Strategist]-level move, Ishkr.

Hrr. Too bad I dont have the class.

And that was it. Ishkr went back to the inn, sat down, and unfolded the note. He kept checking the windows. He had a hunchbecause he had free time, in between cleaning the inn, to keep up on worldwide affairs.

Because he had heard about a certain kidnapping, as yet unresolved. He watched the skies. And he waited.

Keep the Potion of Regeneration close.If a blind man or someone else with officer classes comes, let them in. We are coming too.

The inns first Goblin was frustratingly short on details, and she asked a lot, but for herIshkr made a special reservation.

Service with a smile.

Olesm, [Commander]

Ishkrs gift went to the Antinium lines. Commander Olesm personally handed it over, and a group of Soldiers clustered around it.

But they shared it. Significant Beaversother [Soldiers] went to stare. What a silent genius, that Gnoll was.

It was a classic Erin Solstice move. Perhaps that was why it was so fitting that it would be tonight.

Olesm Swifttail was surprised that he didnt have to kick 6th and 9th company off a few cliffs. He suspected Wing Commander Embria had something to do with that.

Were getting movement all along our left flank. I think Manus is coming.

Scout Leader Maksie had begun to pick up their movements by now. Olesm just nodded.

Sounds good.

He didnt say anything like, its time, or just wait, because that was the most idiotic thing you could say into a tapped line.

Nor did he inform Bepol or Ramia or even Belgrade of a change. He gave routine orders that might have made them think twicebut the proof of the pudding was in the surprise. Olesm sent a note via Liscors door, but aside from that, it was all here, in the army. Ishkrs gift was a welcome surprise, but the rest?

It was all just them.

Antinium of Liscors Army, 1st Division

It was the best and only gift theyd ever received, most of them. A [Crusader] peeled an orange, sharing pieces around. An Armored Antinium gobbled down the peel because the bitter was oh, so tasty!

[Crusaders] of the Free Antinium, Armored Soldiers and Workersand the Silent Antinium infiltrators.

They werent supposed to show themselves, as the Silent Antinium could not be part of Liscors war. However, the strangeness infecting the crusade had already done something to them.

A fat bag of barley spilled out next to Crusader 442. He hesitated, orange half-peeled.

That wasnt a gift. He looked around and saw a faint outline of a familiar mantis-Antinium.

Only, this one he knew.

[Thief]! The rest of Squad 4, Battalion 6, edged over covertly. Fluffy Lancers had encountered this particular Silent Antinium before.

Itshe? They were all sheswas notable not because they often saw her, but because of one detail.

Shed lost a single scythe-arm. Those didnt grow back, and the Silent Queen did not invest in regrowth gels since the scythe-arms werent regrowable via the same restorative gels a lucky Worker or Soldier could get. The Silent Queen considered that the Silent Antinium would not live long enough to justify that kind of investment of resources.

Therefore, this Silent Soldier had half the fighting potential of others. That was possibly why Thief had developed her habit.

Instead of killing sentries or ambushing patrols, she kept stealing food from the Alliance. She would scuttle back, and, in exchange, Fluffy Lancers would quietly boil it up or cook it, and she got to eat the food.

Now, Crusader 442 offered her an orange as she greedily devoured it piece by piece. Thief, the Silent Antinium, was one of several oddities.

And rise as a [Crusader].

Zimrah, the last [Priest], had leveled up today. She no longer smiled as she inducted an Armored Antinium into their ranks. It was a choicebut many of their Hive wanted it.

She spoke sermons, she healed, and her faith was strong. But the Worker did not walk around with the same conviction as before. Theophilus and Jerimy were dead. Pawn had offered to let her return with the Painted Antinium. He had not expected her to take the offer, nor could Zimrah.

How could she go back?

There was something here. The army was alive. The armythere were things Olesm didnt know and accepted about the Antinium command. He saw what was important, for all he could be so terribly cruel.

Yet look at them.

Zimrah sawtragedy and glory. She saw gifts, kindness, anger in Crusader 57, confidence, selfishness in Shelly, a desire to be loved in Kevin. She saw bravery and wrath.

These were not all good things. But for the first timethey were Antinium things.

Manus was coming tonight. Artur had gone around the camp, telling everyone to get ready. It looked like a night attack on their camps, maybe. A fully-backed army.

Drisshias heavies. Manus will sneak through them. Do not die. That is an order.

He passed by multiple squads, and some Workers offered him parts of their gifts, but Artur declined. The flag flew behind him. He would fight with them.

[Raise the Standard]. The [Banner Leader] had leveled up. Those who livedgot stronger. If you lived.

Manus was higher-level still. So they won. It was a thing any Antinium who lived long enough understood as a reality of war. Manus had done this longer. Manus had enchanted gear.

It wasnt fair. But they had more than just faith and Heaven to help them face it.

From days of war and wrath we ran

Exiled from every land

Searching for our honor lost

And found the House of Minos sands.

A song rose over the ranks of the Antinium, and some turned to listen. A Minotaur with one arm sat with the Beriad, the self-named group who followed him into battle.

It was Workers who sang, in unison, and never had Antinium sung like that before, together. Even Bird could not have dreamed of that.

Or maybe he could. Bird was silly.

However, the singing broke off as the Minotaur lifted a hand.

Thats how we sing it. But this is your song. It would not be the House of Minos sands. Erwhat rhymes with sand?

Land?

Thats line two.

The Workers and Minotaur sat together, trying to compose new lyrics. This was good. These were good things.

It would not stop Manus from killing them, but it would let them go to their deaths as brave as brave could be. If Calruz gave it to them, that was well.

Howeveranother squad sat together, calmly waving their antennae at one another.

Hectval, not Manus, weighed on their minds despite the impending battle. They were an odd group. Not one battle had passed recently without one of their number dying.

Or at least, thats what the casualty reports said. Despite them being an archery group, they had a higher-than-average casualty rating, which Dekass had noted.

Archer B12 sat with the others, one of the originals from the first volunteers. They were still around, like Crusader 53, the old guard. However, he was currently engaged in waving all four hands around as all of Squad B sat in a circle.

Come on, come on

Four hands per Antinium. Ten Antinium per squad. Twenty games of rock-paper-knife. It took a long time for a winner to be found, but that was fine. Antinium sat out, and then it was B12 versus Crusader 995.

He won. B12 went still as the other [Archer] lowered his hands. All of Squad B gathered around B12. Slowly, he rose, feeling calm.

Ah. At last.

A [Sniper] was dead among the enemy lines. It had been foundblasted from above by a Wyvern hiding in the sky. Manus hated that [Sniper]. It had killed so many of them, so many officers. So many [Soldiers]even shot a Wyvern through the eye, though the Wyvern hadnt died.

They had orders now, to try and capture the enemy. Manus just had one thing wrong in their speculations as to how it continued, though.

It wasnt a [Sniper].

Archer B12 rose and went around Squad B, shaking hands with all of them. Good luck. Good luck.

Goodbye.

They saw him off as he collected his bow, arrows, and trooped out of the camp. Archer B12 was ready. At last

At last, its my turn.

Since Manus was coming, he found a good spot to set up and meet them. They were not Hectval, but they were on his list. Just like Bird had said.

An arrow for all of them. All of them. B12 took a little nap, and the class was waiting for him.

Just as promised.

The Antinium division was ready when the enemy appeared. Drisshia heralded their arrival with banging drums. They knew they couldnt sneak up on Liscor.

So they didnt.

Yayde Re! Up and at them! Lets kill some Drisshies!

Captain Voita rode down the line of the Yoldenites, and they cheered, many having traded their gear up for plundered armor and weapons. Bepol was moving his lines up to engage Drisshias.

But everyone was waiting for Manus. They would attack from within Drisshias lines. As the enemy army moved closer through the darkness, someone swore.

Selphids tits. Theres a lot of em out there. I think those reinforcements from Manus might havedoubled their numbers. Embria, you seeing this? I see multiple, multiple shadows in the clouds.

Xith was reporting to the other officers via a speaking stone. Commander Olesm replied.

Were aware they reinforced, Wing Commander. Keep your squad back. Hit any Wyverns you can, but save those three Skills for my command.

Yes, sir.

Wing Commander Embria listened to Xith, and the 9th Companys leader sounded a bit leerybut he obeyed. Confidence went downhill just like crap, and Olesm sounded like he was in charge, so he was.

6th was waiting on the wings, but Narkr was watching Embria as 4th Company slowed, taking their position in Bepols lines.

Coincidentally, they were close to the Antinium.

Hey! Who ate my chocolate? I know it was one of you Antinium bastards! I put it down, and you stole it! Chocolate. They said it came special from Imanis kitchen, and there was one bag in the entire damn city! Who was it?

Captain Vell of 2nd Squad was throwing a huge fit. The Antinium lines didnt move. Then a familiar voice called out.

Eat grass, Vell.

Who said that? Was it you, Crusader 57?

4th Company sniggered, even Vells own squad.

Order in the ranks! Are you children? Is that Significant Beavers? Good to see you. Want to join 4th?

Wikir snapped. Significant Beavers waved at 4th Company and their expanded lines.

No thanks! I hate heights!

Embria saw 6th Company muttering and pointing at the madness of 4th. It hadnt turned into outright disputesyet. But, oh, the irony was that Maksie had come back to have a drink with them last night, and 6th and 9th were rumbling at 4th, who were angry that they were being called bug-kissing traitors when they

Whats that over there? Oi. Quiet.

Wing Commander Embria saw something odd as Drisshia drew nearer. 4th Company instantly went silent, and she went to check it out.

Both armies were coming into arrow range, and shields went up. Soon theyd fight and die.

Something was up. She had noticed Olesm was here personally. She suspected he had a planbut she had deliberately kept that to herself. Trust in the [Commander], after all. Fool the enemy.

She rode closer, breaking from 4ths position. The others let her pass, and she rode straight into the Antinium lines. As an officer.

What are you doing? Get into formation!

She snapped at an Antinium squad who had not stayed in their columns and rows, but were clustered together, a prime target.

Do you want to eat a [Fireball]? Spread out!

Dekass had made his command immune to lightning, so whenever Antinium got hit by a [Lightning Bolt] spell, everyone called it free mana.

Theyre coming! Ancestors! Manus is in front! Sixeight hundred [Soldiers]! Get ready!

Maksie was screaming into their linked stones. Embria whirled and heard one of the Workers speak.

We have received a gift. Tonight is the night. We will die or they will. He walks among us. Wing Commander, do you want some?

The Drake whirled back to him. Then she heard a roar go up across the Antinium ranks. She saw Spearmaster Lulv charging, and her scales prickled.

What was this? Why were they coming in so hot?

Then she saw him, standing amid a cluster of Antinum slowly emerging from the center. It seemed Olesm hadnt disguised them well enough after all, or they had a mole. Embria looked up and whispered.

Pawn.

Lulv pointed at the Worker and the Painted Antinium around him. Yellow Splattershe didnt recognize any other high-value targets, but that was enough.

[Mark Target]. Bring it down, no matter what!

This was the battle. The instant he had heard Olesm had requested Pawns presence on the battlefield, he had known.

The Drake [Strategist] might have had a plan, but Lulv had one of his own, and it was simple: kill Pawn.

If Manus theories had any weightthe Free Antinium would collapse if that one died. At the very least, he was a leader on par with the others.

Pawn, Garry, Belgrade, Anand, Bird.

He had come with the best of the Painted Antinium, Lulv had no doubt. But that Worker had made one mistake:

This was a war.

Eight hundred of Manus [Soldiers] tore down the hill after the [Spearmaster]. Lulv raised his spear.

[Intimidation: Spear of a Thousand Graves]!

Manus [Soldiers] roared as the Gnoll leapt into the dark sky. They had seen him a hundred times. The Antinium didnt flinch and lifted their blades.

The first ranks of Manus lines went through them without slowing.

Death. Those poor [Soldiers]. Embria whirled her spear up. The Antinium surged forwards.

Protect Pawn! Hold your ground! Crab Battalionadvance!

Dekass roared. The broken Battalion 3 charged. They had returned. Not one single Antinium had lived in the original five hundred.

Yet it was Crab Battalion who met Manus. They had inherited their name. Embria was about to ride towards her command when she saw the squad of Antinium unveiling their gift.

Ishkrs gift.

She stopped, and one turned to her.

You are Wing Commander Embria, arent you? Do you want some? We are going.

You dont have orders for that.

A figure moved through the darkness, and something glittered as it rose. Embria looked up and saw a familiar flag glowing in the night. Arrows swerved around her as a Worker lifted it higher, staring at what they held.

Artur. He turned to face Embria.

I order it. Squad 2, Battalion 6. Prepare to charge. There is no strategy in it. But we will break their lines or fall.

They were going for Pawn. Embria hesitated, looking down. She could hear Manus [Soldiers] shouting, roaringbut there was something different this time. They soundeddetermined.

[Lineholders]. [War Veterans]. [Vanguards].

Manus [Soldiers] had been replenished, their numbers doubled. The new lot were ready to slaughter the Antinium. It was the group that had fought them these last two months who held them back. Told them something like what Embria had said.

These are not the Antinium you know.

Now, one of their [Captains] was waiting to get to the front. The Antinium were fighting, trying to stop Lulv as he advanced on that Worker and the Painted Antinium. Yet

The Workers and Soldiers were waiting for Manus as their lines closed. The ones behind the engaged front ranks? The [Captain] muttered.

What was that, sir?

A [Soldier] looked at him. The [Captain] said it again. The Drake hesitated and reached for his speaking stone.

Strategist Sokkel, sir. Report.

What?

The [Strategist] snapped. The [Captain] hesitated. He said it again.

They looked like [Soldiers].

What? Have you taken leave of your senses? Get off the

Sokkel was bawling the [Captain] off until he realized what that meant. The Manus [Captain] didnt know how to explain it.

They looked like [Soldiers]. They were standing shoulder-to-shoulder, fixated. Not pushing forwards, waiting. One of them held their mace grimly, and another was aiming his zweihander.

If I die, I will take you with me. They had always been Antinium. Lulv hadnt taken anyone who mocked the Antiniums ability to kill. Manus had taken them seriously. We know you are warriors.

These were [Soldiers]. There was a difference. The Antinium squad charged as some of their own fell back. Fell back to preserve their lives. Not a mindless attack until they died, like Dekass had first ordered.

Squad 5, charge!

They charged. Crusader 53s mace met an enchanted shield, and the Drake holding it buckled.

Faith. Pawn was among them. He could not die. Squad 5 fought like lions. Too bad they were fighting Manticores.

You iDiOt

Crusader 57 went down as Crusader 51no, Tonislipped, and a [Soldier] tried to run him through. The Worker charged into the way of the partisan spear. He fell back, and the Gnoll tried to tear the spear upwards.

Crusader 53 hit him on the head. The Gnolls head imploded. The [Soldiers] of Manus reacted as the mace crushed an enchanted helmet.

High-level [Soldier]! Watch it!

The Soldier whirled his mace up. It flashed, and a [Captain] turned pale.

Oh shit. Mace arts. Take

A Soldier with two arms and battered steel armor lifted the mace up and rotated. Like a spinning top. The mace swung aroundand then it was as big as a battering ram. A cluster of [Soldiers] vanished as it hit them like a gong.

High-level Antinium! Mark it! Mark

The [Captain]s last words were choked off by a crunch. Crusader 53s mace smashed through the squad, scattering those who survived like pins.

[Mace Art: Big Hammer].

But he was marked.

This is Aerial Team 1. Were heading down.

[Mages] on Wyverns. Dozens of them this time. Lulv roared amidst the sound of fighting.

Watch out! That Antinium Worker is doing something. Watch for that [Scout]!

Taken care of, sir.

The [Battle Mage] had a lock on Maksie, who was circling, trying to unleash Olesms Skill and dodge. He took aim, moving as the [Wyvern Rider] angled her beast in a dive.

[Bound Spell: Hundredfold Light Arrow Volley]. [Piercing Missiles]. [Homing]. Hey, were going too fast! Pull up.

The [Mage] snapped at the [Wyvern Rider]. Instead of replying, the Drake lolled her head at him. And he realized there was an arrow through her goggles.

[Sniper]!

Archer B12 lowered his bow. He drew another arrow, put it to the string, and loosed it. A second Wyvern went down.

We killed you!

A scream from above. He looked up and saw an Oldblood Drake coming down at him. The Worker drew a dagger in one hand and loosed a third arrow. It went through a chest.

He wasnt as fast as Bird. A falling Drake [Mage] shouted.

There it is! [Sniper] marked!

More Drakes were flying at him. B12 loosed an arrow from point-blank range at an open mouth.

Ice froze his body, but the Drake died before the breath attack could fully engulf him. The cloud of mist rose overhead as the body fell back, covering him.

The Worker ran out of the cloud and loosed an arrow through a second flier.

How is it doing that? What level is it?

[Appraisal]!

The [Mage] pointed at Archer B12. The Drakes eyes widened. He hadnt expected to see anything, but the class

Worker B12 saw three Drakes go down as a shower of arrows covered his position. He looked down and saw B-Team loosing arrows at his pursuers! He raised his bow, sighted on Lulv, and loosed.

The Gnoll tried to parry the arrow with the haft of his spear and grunted. It washeavy! He still managed it.

Kill that [Sniper]!

Sir! I have identification on the class!

The [Mage] was screaming. Archer B12s first arrow burnt away on the magic shield. The second cracked it. The Drake tried to take cover, but he kept screaming.

Its not a [Sniper]! Class is [Avenger]! Say again[Av

The arrow went through his enchanted robes and out the other side. Lulvs head snapped up.

What?

[Skill Arrows: Combined Weight of Our Wrath]

[Legacy Long-ranged Shot received!]

[Legacy Pinpoint Arrows received!]

[Legacy

One after the other. With each one that died, the arrows were heavier.

Never shall we forgive Hectval. Bird was right. They had all been at that inn, and the Drakes had taken it from them.

It didnt matter if he died. B12 stood there, ignoring the arrows striking down around him. Die. We will never stop until were all dead. And we pass on the weight of this class to the next one.

Advanced classes. Lulv felt his skin under his fur crawling. He looked up.

Pawn. The [Priest] was watching him. But he was one of two targets shielded by the Painted Antinium. The [Mages] were preparing to destroy the entire Antinium force if they had to. If they failed, Lulv would do it for them. And he would make sure these two died.

An [Avenger] only had strength if there was someone to continue the class.

Yet the other [Priest] was raising her hands higher. Pawn held his censer.

Zimrah was bare-handed. Lulv had seen her before as well. He recognized the odd words. The chanting.

You, Hectval, you, our enemies, are doomed to Hell. There is no salvation for you. You could have lived longyou could have lived in peace. You choose this.

There was something different in the way she spoke. Theophilus had raged at them. But Zimrahs voiceit was sorrowful.

Look at what you have done. We seek Heaven, and you killed the sky. You have lost everything. You were given all that we dream of, and this is what you do? You are damned. Damned for Hell.

Sokkel calmly pointed a finger at her.

[Highlight Target].

Zimrah lit up, and Painted Antinium bearing shields moved in front of her. The [Priest] wasnt done. Nor did she hide behind Pawn and Yellow Splatters, who moved to shield her. Both Antinium were looking at her. Zimrahs voice grew louder.

Do you think I fear death? I will never suffer in Heavens grace. You? YOU? YOU ARE BOUND FOR HELL. GO THERE.

A trembling finger rose. She shrieked, and Lulvs ears burned. Zimrah aimed a finger straight back, across Manus lines.

Straight at Sokkel. The Drake [Strategist] blinked as she screamed.

[Marked For Hell].

What? Lulv whirled around. Pawn and Yellow Splatters recoiled. But Sokkel just stumbled. He looked down. Something red, a mark, was inscribed on his chest. He brushed at it with one claw.

Just a marker. Im fine, [Spearmaster]. Im

He stumbled again. Then clutched the arrow that B12 had punched through his armor. The Drake choked on his words. He clutched the arrow through his heart.

Then he began to scream. Lulv had been trained not to take his eyes off the enemy. But he couldnt look away.

A void opened under Sokkel. Something reached up. It dragged him down, and he vanished, burning, his body twisting into wisps of agonized, terrified smoke.

What was

A babble broke out around Manus lines. The [Mages] had no idea what they had just seen. But then that [Priest] pointed again.

You.

A Gnoll clawed at her chest as a mark burned onto her. Lulv shouted into his stone.

Get that [Soldier] out of there! Protective spells! All of them! Now! Kill that Antinium! Priority target!

HELL WAITS FOR YOU ALL.

Zimrah screamed as Pawn grabbed her arm. The [Hellspeaker Priest] was shaking as she tried to use her Skill again, and the marked [Soldier] was covered by a line of shields.

Manus lines redoubled their fighting. They were prepared to die. But that?

That Worker had to die. Lulv snarled.

[Mages]! Unleash!

The skies lit up. Pawn looked up as dozens of Tier 4 and Tier 5 spells came screaming down.

It was not about Pawn. He didnt recognize them. These [Crusaders]Zimrah. They were changed.

His Crusade battled Manus around him. Pawn watched Antinium die.

I sent them to this fate.

One of his hands touched his heart, for a second, then lifted the censer once more. He had sent them. And he would have sent them again. Because Hectval would not stop.

It hurt too much to see. He had been forbidden to walk the battlefield, and he had obeyed Xrn and the Free Queen because he was afraid.

Afraid that he would die and never see Erin again. Leave the Antinium without first building Heaven on earth.

Simply afraid of dying. Afraid he was needed

And most of all, afraid of who he might become. Hatred and wonder warred in Pawns chest, and both of them were him.

He had seen the depths of madness and a glorious warrior before. To his right, Calruz stood, roaring as he fought, swinging his axe down at Manus [Soldiers] as Antinium sang. To his left, Zimrah was still screaming, the most hopeful of his [Acolytes] condemning the living to something else.

Why fire? What hands were those? They were not Antinium hands. They were clawed and

Pawn saw a glowing Worker emerge from the air. Then another. They leapt forwards, grappling, trying to slow that Gnoll. He slew them so fast Pawn barely blinked.

He was not meant for this battlefield. He knew that. His faith fell before steel, and it was a bitter realization. But he had not come here to win this battle alone.

The [Priest of Wrath and Sky] tightened his grip on his censer. Two hands were clasped together in prayer, and Yellow Splatters was watching Lulv.

Olesm had command of them. He had only asked for Pawn to come for one reason. There was something Olesm couldnt defeat. So Pawn bowed his head in prayer as comets and fire rained down. He lifted his arms and looked up.

[I Walked Under Heavens Sky]. You cannot break us that easily.

To combat Manus flying [Mages], Olesm had requested Xrn take the field.

He had gotten Pawn. For all her magic, there were things he could do that the [Thaumaturge] had never dreamed of. The [Priest] looked up and smiled.

The night changed to day.

Pawn thought he heard someone singing to him.

Across the battlefield, Antinium slowed in their fighting and gazed upwards in awe. Lulv threw up his paws as the sky turned blue. Daylight filtered down for one momentthen it hung in the air like the lights of the sky.

Sky-blue radiance mixed with the night. It threw the struggling armies into darkness.

What is that? What is? Where are my spells?

They were gone. Confused [Mages] threw more spells, and they vanished into the glorious vision of the sky.

What level of Skill is that?

It made no sense! No ordinary spell could do that! Lulv snarled. He stabbed, his spear flurrying through bodies. Hed do it himself. That Skill didnt stop his spear.

Pawn knew it too. He was retreating, his job done. Lulv felt it instinctively.

If he beat magicLulv could still kill him. Yet the Worker had one more trick. The Worker pointed, and Lulv twisted, but though he ducked the pointing fingerthe Skill still hit him.

[Bane of Luck].

What? A luck-based

Lulv struck the ground, and his feet slipped on a patch of mud. His boots were enchanted to stickit must have just been the perfect angle for him to slip. He caught himselfand a Soldier charged into him. Two hands caught his spear, the other two began to punch at him.

Die.

Lulv headbutted Yellow Splatters, trying to wrestle his spear away. They slammed backwardsthe [Spearmaster] was higher-level and far quicker. He reached for his dagger to stab the Soldier and felt the kiss of pain on his back.

Spearmaster! Im so

One of his [Soldiers] had run him through from behind when Lulv and the Antinium went crashing backwards! The Gnoll howled in fury.

Advance and kill those Workers! Now!

He looked left and right, but the charge had stalled out. Manus had slowed down? Then he heard desperate shouts from the officers filling Sokkels spot.

Liscors 6th on the left! Intercepting! 11th is hitting uskill that Worker!

4th Company, approaching! [Spearmaster]! Watch out! Somethings wrong!

Lulv looked upand the bright light of blue skies and dream of heaven over the battlefield grew brighter still.

Embria looked down as Ishkrs gift flared to life. Artur lifted his banner higher, and the squads of Antinium around him turned.

We will charge into the enemy. Have no fear. Look.

The Worker pointed at something one of the [Crusaders] held. It wassomething from The Wandering Inn. Embria recognized it.

It had first arrived as a simple little thing. A neatly shuttered contraption made of wood, carefully filled to the brim with as much fuel as possible.

Mere tinder. It was there to keep the spark burning. The fire glowing.

She looked down and saw Glory. That fleeting, bright pink flame, like the very essence of the feeling it contained. Something that would never last would come to [Soldiers] and the brave and linger in memory.

Bright. The lantern burned as the squad holding it gathered around.

But it had not remained as a lantern. It had caught fire. Perhaps Ishkr had packed it with too much fuel. Or perhapsthe Gnoll had known it would ignite.

It covered the Soldier who held it. And it was burning on more than just the lanterns. The Workers and Soldiers had tossed everything onto the blaze.

Now, it burned amidst the Antinium, and more squads looked at it. Artur approached, flag waving.

He did not, as Embria thought, lower it and set his flag on fire. That would be a waste of a good flag. However, the Worker looked at her.

Squads. You will charge with me. Formation.

Antinium were gathering around. And as Embria watchedshe saw them lifting their blades.

A Soldier dipped his spears head into the fire, and it clung to the tip. A trio of Soldiers placed their blades into the fire, and they burned with Glory.

Wing Commander Embria?

4th Company was moving. The Drake looked down. The Worker helping hold the burning brazier aloft stared at her.

Offering it to

Oh, Ancestors tits.

Wing Commander Embria raised her spear. She looked at it, as 6th and 9th Companies began to sortie. She knew her own command was watching her. Perhaps Xith and Narkr didnt seebut Embria would never deny this moment.

She lowered her spear, and a Soldier raised a hatchet laid into the fire. The Antinium raising their blade touched it to hers. Just for a moment. Embria looked around as a company burning with magical flames looked at her. She raised her spear into the skythen whirled her mount.

Artur charged. And 4th Company rode into Manus lines. Following a Drake whose spear burned with pink fire.

Did it do anything? Perhaps not. Glory wasnt much of an effective weapon. But she held it. The Antinium following Artur raced into battle carrying the dream of every [Soldier]. Fighting, the flames flickering on their blades.

Burning out. Fading.

So brilliant before they died.

Embria raised her spear, fighting to reach Lulv. The Gnoll deflected her first strike, and second. He whirled his spear, taking her on, running her through the leg, slashing one of Yellow Splatters hands off.

He would not fall. And she did not have the skill to bring him down alone. Yet still

The [Spear of Glory] fought, her class burning bright.

Manus was slowing down. Lulv looked right and left. It was more than Liscors companies coming to their defense. He sensed it.

The Antinium had too many levels.

A [Crusader] raised his [Reinforced Shield]. [Battering Charge]. He slammed into a Drake, angling his sword. [Quick Stab]!

Three Skills? Those werent even all of them! A squad was holding down one of Manus, refusing to give ground.

Who? Who was responsible for this? Lulv looked around and saw a Drake sitting on a horse. He howled, pointing at the high-level Antinium [Crusader] forcing some of his people back.

Mark that target!

The shield-bearing Antinium went down. But another stepped up. And thenit happened.

At last. Olesm held the Kaalblade in his claw, but he had seen how you died.

He had been forced to watch. Feed the Antinium to Manus.

He had done it. Erin would never forgive him. Olesm had watched the Antinium march back, the wounded, the survivors.

And he sent them into battle again. While they burned out

He saved the sparks.

Erins fire raced through part of the army. Olesms heart squeezed as he saw Ishkrs gift. But Maviolas legacy burned brighter still.

High-level Antiniummark target!

We have a [Scattershot] on our position. Marking squad for

Manus babble was perfectly audible through the pilfered speaking stone Olesm was holding. How stupid of them. Did they think Olesm couldnt tap their lines? He looked at the squads they were marking.

It wasnt just one Antinium or two. It seemed like dozens of [Crusaders] were suddenly manifesting high-level Skills.

Because they were. Olesm looked down and saw one of Bepols two Antinium squads on the front. Survivors.

Members of squads whod been nearly wiped out. Veterans he rotated into back lines or safer engagements. Out of Manus crosshairs.

Because they couldnt read the [Crusader]s levels any more than Olesm could. Now, the Antinium who had waited so long ran straight into Manus ranks. Olesm lifted a claw.

Now.

The Level 21 [Commander] used his new Skill.

[Our Suffering We Returned Twofold]. Antinium! Push Manus back.

His voice boomed across the battlefield. He saw Lulv look at him. Olesm saw the first showers of arrows coming from Manus side and stepped back.

Shields up.

He took cover as he watched. This timethere was no [Lady] of fire to break Hectvals lines. There was no need for it.

The [Crusaders] began to burn.

Kill them all. No quarter until theyre all dead. Not one step back.

Lulv was prepared to die on this battlefield. Hed run that Drake with the spear through and cut her stomach. The Soldier, Yellow Splatters, was moving back with Pawn under guard.

They all had to die. Even if Lulv diedhe saw what Olesm had done.

Counter-levelling. Not one escapes. Do you understand?

Affirmative, sir!

Even if he sacrificed half of his commandthe Antiniums grand experiment here would fail. That was what Lulv believed.

Then he saw something strange.

A Worker stood in his squad, fighting with those pink, flaming blades. [Crusaders] died around him. Manus [Soldiers] went down too, but they pressed on.

The Worker was stumbling. Wounded. He raised his shield as a Drake came for him. The last Worker in his squad looked around.

Then his eyes flashed. Lulvs spear twitched as he saw the Worker raise his shield and the [Pike Expert] trying to run him through recoiled in a blaze of light.

What?

When Lulv saw him again, the Worker was a foot taller. Soldiers did a double-take as a giant Worker swung a sword, hatchet, and pair of shields, knocking down Manus [Soldiers].

The [Templar] lifted his sword to the sky and seemed really disappointed when a giant blade didnt erase everything in front of him. However, he charged.

Death.

He ran into Lulv. The Gnoll took a heavy blow on his spear and then rammed it through the chestplate. He saw the Antinium fighting and twisted the spear.

No more of you! Not one remains! The Gnoll howled at the strange sky overhead.

Then he saw another strange Antinium appear. And another.

First it was one. They all remembered him.

Crusader 51 had been the first. Another [Crusader] reached the limit of his class. More. I call for more.

They had leveled. They had suffered. They believed.

Their classes began to change. The [Spearmaster] tried to kill them. Manus marked targets. But this timethere were too many of them.

Hold the line! We fight alone.

A Soldier strode forwards. He was not taller, but he spoke, and in such tones!

[My Noble Virtue: Speech].

Another Worker had grown like the one Lulv had killed. He pushed back a fighting Armored Antinium, running at the Manus [Soldiers] who backed up, visibly disturbed.

[My Noble Virtue: Stature].

A third [Templar] stood upon a bluff, fighting under a dome of light. It seemed like those around him could not die.

[My Noble Virtue: Protection].

The [Templar] of the Free Antinium began to advance. Lulv, snarling, looked left and right and realized

They had flanked Manus. Liscors companies were cycle-charging their sides, and Olesm had neutralized the [Mage] spells from above. They had to descend and risk being shot or circle helplessly.

Yayde Re!

And there were Yoldenites, skirmishing with the Drisshians. Wait. Drisshia was pulling out!

Theyre fleeing! Spearmaster, we cant stop their flight! Liscors right wing just overran their center! Spearmaster!

They wereeverywhere. Lulvs spear killed everything he saw. But there were so many. Shining warriors. Sudden healing. That [Priest] aiming that mark of Hell at them.

Lulv went still in the fighting. He looked around and saw it all clearly.

A moment of calm ran over him. The fight drained out of him. He raised his speaking stone and calmly, in a relaxed tone of voice, even, breathed.

Retreat. Retreat in good order.

All the officers were silent a moment, then the order went down the lines.

Sir? Whats our rally point?

Someone asked after a moment. Lulv knew they knew. But he said it.

Manus. Were going home. Weve lost this war.

He stepped back, and the Antinium advance slowed as Olesm saw the retreat and halted the fighting. To preserve his forces. Lulv looked up at him and raised his spear.

Well done. The Drake offered him a rude gesture in return.

Lulv, [Spearmaster]

The Hectval Alliance objected to his pulling out of the front. Lulv ignored it. He was faced with speculation, officers trying to make sense of it all.

He ignored that, too.

The [Soldiers] of Manus were silent as they justquit the front. Spearmaster Lulv walked with them, his spear on his shoulder. They would walk back to Manus. Or rideLulv was sure hed need to catch a Wyvern flight to report directly.

However, he needed to walk with them. He had led them there. When the [Spearmaster] did speak, it was to all of them.

I will make a verbal report, of course. But in my writing, which I think will be sealed to only the High Command of each Walled Cityedited for the other ones, perhapsI will write this.

The soldiers and officers looked up and listened as the Gnoll spoke.

To Dragonspeaker Luciva. I, Spearmaster Lulv, held my command in the fighting as long as I deemed the risks appropriate. In hindsight, I believe we engaged with the Antinium force too long. We have made three significant errors in our thinking.

He counted on his paws. Three.

Firstly. We do not understand the new classes the Antinium possess. They do not just level as we do. They are capable of using a new type of Skill which is neither magic nor strictly a warriors Skills. I do not know its nature, but it is a highly powerful class and abilities I have never encountered before.

More than just intimidation or [Fear] spells. Something about the way they talkedLulv stared at his first finger. The most terrifying Skill he had seen on that battlefield had not been Crusader 51s Skills.

It had been that Skill that Sokkel died to. Did it kill something more than his life? Lulv feared it. And he was sure that the other [Soldiers] feared it, too.

Second, we have underestimated Liscors ability to work with the Antinium. They are not merely tolerant of the Antinium or see them as an asset. They are actively supporting and fighting alongside Workers and Soldiers. Asfellow [Soldiers].

Manus forces stirred, but no one voiced any dissent as Lulv went on.

Which brings me to my last point. Before thoughts about debilitating Liscors command or taking drastic measures against the cityI, Spearmaster Lulv, believe it is more beneficial to attempt to subvert the loyalty of the Free Hive. To study and learn what the Antinium are doing concretely. If necessary, to make radical steps to ensure that the Free Antinium do not join the rest of the Hives in a possible Third Antinium War. I suggest Manus employ every diplomatic angle we can.

Dead silence. Everyone listened as Lulv went on, as if he stood in front of the Dragonspeaker. When he didhe would say the exact same thing.

Failing that, my only other recourse is to ask if there is asecret failsafe. Something beyond even the Security Councils knowledge. A hidden Tier 8 spell. If we have one, I suggest we use it. If we do not, we must reconsider everything about the Antinium. Because I will swear on my classthe Antinium are either capable of this as a species, or their class enables it. I thought I could kill them all, but their greatest asset is not their new classes, abilities, or potential alone. In battle, they were counter-leveling without needing to sleep. If we learn how to do the same, Manus will benefit to no end. Otherwise? I mark the Free Antinium as the greatest threat in any Hive, including the Grand Queens.

Spearmaster Lulv stopped. He looked around and waited.

Thoughts? Objections?

No one had any. So he lowered his spear, saluted the other [Soldiers], and went to make his report.

Olesm, [Strategist]-[Commander]

[Conditions Met: Strategist Eleleu Strategos Class!]

[Class Consolidation: Commander removed.]

[Eleleu Strategos Level 35!]

[Skill War Cry: Eleleu obtained!]

[Skill Battlefield: Galucs Tunnel obtained!]

[Skill Army: Charred Spellcasting obtained!]

[Spell Army: [Firebolt] obtained!]

Olesm woke up, listened to his Skills, and then rolled out of bed. He wrote a response back to the Council, who wanted all kinds of confirmations after his late report. Then Olesm went to brush his teeth, comb his neck spines, have a cup of coffee from Liscor, and remembered.

Damn. Gelatin. Maybe we can get some.

And the war continued.

Oh, not in the same way. Manus was gone. Olesm had double and triple-checked, and he would keep his guard up, but he thought they were actually gone.

Theyd seen a real defeat. After hitting Liscor for three months, Liscor had been able to hit back. If Olesm had needed to, he would have called in Belgrade and really hammered them. But the [Crusaders] were enough.

Yet the war wasnt over.

The Alliance was gone. Theyd retreated practically back to their cities. Now, Lism informed Olesm, they were negotiating for a cease-fire. Olesm wrote back, repeating his words in his bleary state so he was sure he had them all down.

Liscors Council is free to handle its end. However, please bear in mind that the army will continue its advance, and we can discuss a siege of the cities. The Alliances termsshould be no less than exceptionally generous. Also, please, we must keep our promises to the Yoldenites. A continuation of this war may see a fracture between Luldem, Hectval, and Drisshia.

Even if the war ended, Olesm suspected Liscors army would need to patrol the Yoldenites territory, especially if they wanted to figure out how to create a trade route.

He realized then that the army wouldnt disband when the war ended. What happened when Hectval made alliances with other cities, or someone else attacked? He would be the [Commander]no, the [Strategos]of Liscor unless their main army came back.

Olesm sat there, blinking in the mornings light, and realized he was the leader of Liscors army. He stared into the cup, took a sip of the coffee, and shuddered.

Gah. Thats terribly bitter. Artur? Do we have anything to put in this? Maybe milk. Hows morale? Break out double rations for breakfast and pull me up a roster. Were rotating everyone who just fought into Liscor on vacation. I dont care if were marching them down instead of the door, everyone over the next month. Tell Belgrade I want to speak with himand ask Embria if she consolidated her class. Oh, and Captain Voita after her

He got back to work. Olesm continued his war right up until he got word of the gigantic battles in the Gnoll Plains. Then he was racing, racing his entire army back to Liscor.

But thatwas a bit later.

Authors Note: Three chapters. 100,000 words. Thats a novella. Novel?

I dont know book terms. Someone kept writing denouement and I sort of knew what it meant but I was too lazy to look it up.

Writing is odd. I wasnt lying when I said I planned one chapter for all of this. Yes, I added more when I realized I had three chapters instead of one, but my brain can organize character arcs, details, a rough sense of narrative

And I cannot tell how many words it is. Or how long a mile is. Or whether Niers is a foot or six inches tall. Hes six inches. I thought my hand was a foot long for some reason.

However, I am happy with this arc. It is a different genre. Much like the Wistram heistits good to try and write in other styles. I doubt I ever want to try a mystery. I cannot solve any of them in books. I read Detective Conan and after 1000+ chapters, I never guess who did the murder or how they did it. Ever.

But I will keep improving! I hope to put out the edited chapter next, but we will see. Another arc downlets see if I can keep quality up as energy wanes. It was good that you voted for Hectval first; the first chapters after a break are almost always my strongest. Thanks for reading and look out for the Antinium! Especially if you live in Hectval. Theyre probably not going anywhere.

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