Book 8: Chapter 81
(Book 6, The General of Izril is available for preorder on Audible! Check it out here.)
[I am taking a small delay of one update to revise and write. The next chapter will be out on the 26th for Patreons, and the 30th for Public readers.]
The night after the revelation of the Plains Eyes treachery, as Gnolls fought Gnolls in the darkness, Khelts greatest warship sailed from the shores of Chandrar.
I couldnt save them. Not then. Not now. I have never been able to stop them from dying. What is the point of leveling, of it all? Can we even make a difference?
Or were they just pawns on a board, watching someone else moving them around? That was how it felt. One second they were on Chandrar, fighting, hoping, trying to change things for the better.
The next, they were on a ship, gathered together to take part in a greater war. Noa war was being fought, but they didnt even have a way to strike a blow. They couldnt even see the fighting.
Good people were dying, and his friends were in danger. They had suffered so much, and he had left them behind. Pisces Jealnet had spent years trying to change the day Gewilena died. Amidst selfishness, goals and ambitions, it had always been at the back of his mind.
This timethere would be no Gewilena, no Cawe. He had been made a liar twice already, and those were just two of the times Pisces could name.
Would it truly be different? He looked around as his team surrounded him, feeling the cold, but not uncaring clasp of Yvlon Byres metal hand, Ksmvr patting him on the head like a cat, and Ceria grasping his arm with her flesh hand. He looked upwards and saw that golden flame burning in two empty sockets.
Fetohep, the Ruler of Khelt, stopped as he walked down the deck of Sand at Sea, the greatest warship in Khelts armada of one. The Revenant looked down as the [Necromancer]s tears caught in the wind blowing off the prow of the vessel as it left Chandrar.
Pisces Jealnet, [Necromancer] of the Gold-rank team the Horns of Hammerad.
Ceria gasped, and Yvlon backed away as Pisces looked up in astonishment.
You know my name? YoureFetohep of Khelt.
The undead monarch nodded regally.
I am. On behalf of eternal Khelt, I tender you my regrets for any companions left behind. The Scourgeriders of Emrist followed my commands exactly. There is a limit to even their power, but I swear upon Khelt I shall endeavor to shelter your companions if you render their names unto me. We sail for a great cause, beyond any single life. If we failwe shall all suffer. So we shall not fail. Betimes, even I have known defeat and loss. Even Khelt has suffered failure.
He looked down at Pisces, and the Horns waited for the next part of the platitude. Yet Fetohep just stood there.
Excuse me, King Fetohep. Is this statement at an end?
Ksmvr waved a hand politely, and Fetohep eyed the Antinium. He looked Ksmvr up and down and turned.
I speak merely to say that every effort in the world can fail. This is the truth every warrior and ruler faces. I was made a Revenant as they carried my shattered corpse from a battlefield where every comrade and friend I had ever known perished.
He looked past the adventurers.
I have never forgotten my failures. This timeno one shall die. I shall never be too late, and I will defy the sky itself if it falls. That is the lie a ruler tells their people. Those words
His head rotated slowly, and the golden flames met Pisces. The young man saw Fetoheps being fix on him, and he remembered the treasure chests falling from the skies. The [Necromancer] looked into a being twenty times his agemore. Fetohep nodded at him.
That pledge, that grand lie is the foundation of every true adventurer and hero I have known. This time, stand and fight so as to have no regrets. Bleed after all has fallen to silence. I have need of your strength. Erin Solstice will need her friends.
Pisces eyes went wide. Yvlon gasped, and Ceria tilted her head, regarding Fetohep with a frown.
Thatsimpossible. How do you knoware youspeaking to her?
The light in Fetoheps left eye flickered slightly. The Revenant didnt respond. He just turned his head.
Believe there is a chance. We have time yet; Izril will not be reached in a day, even with every Skill and spell. Erin Solstice requires our aid. When the worst occurred, she spoke of you all with every faith. I shall require but a tenth of the trust she placed in you. A tenth, and we shall right all wrongs. When you are rested, we shall talk longer. Eat, drink, sleep. Khelts largesse is yours to partake of.
He began to stride back along the deck, and only now the Horns of Hammerad, catching up from their wild journey across Chandrar on a flying carpet, truly saw where they were.
On a ship at sea, at night. But that was soblas compared to the reality of what they were seeing.
They stood on the decks of a warship decorated with the bones of ancient sea creatures, sand and wind streaming behind them in a gale. The sand and wind should have scarred their skin and flayed their bones with the sheer force of passage, but it did not blow them overboard. Pisces gazed up in a bubble of calm; they raced through the eye of a sandstorm.
A sandstorm, blowing across the black waters as the stars shone fit to burst overhead. A thousand skylights blooming in every color, mirrored on the water as waves crashed upon the prow of the war vessel.
Wherever Pisces looked, he saw legends. [Sailors] with glowing eyes of fire, practically skeletons, laughing, Revenants wearing artifacts of old.
Named Adventurers; a Dullahan woman soothing a gigantic hawk so large it perched on the railing, two-thirds her height, glaring around. A Centauress pacing up and down the deck with a patrol of warriors, staring up at a trio of half-Giant skeletons who stood, talking in huge voices with a [King] and [Queen], father and daughter, one of whom had a golden bell glimmering at his rapiers side.
A man all in bandages stood with the [Ruinbringer Steward], a legendary shadow to the famous King of Destruction, checking a warhorse still breathing hard from its ride. Abovea Named Adventurer Stitch-man holding a glimmering bow like starlight was staring ahead, sitting on one of the masts as it slowly swung around, carrying the ship left.
The air was filled with voices and the distant howl of the storm. It smelled of salt and still of Chandrars dry air, but it was being overtaken by the odor of the sea, strange and wild, bearing the watery promise of a hundred different coasts, even the strange spice of food being borne up by living servants and the tang of drinks a thousand years old.
A ship of legends. And there was Fetohep of Khelt, eyes blazing gold, the entire world dancing, begging for his attention as a dozen scrying orbs and speaking stones swirled around him. Yet he was focused on them, a ruler of death incarnate, his aura so powerful that Pisces felt like he could animate the dead just by looking at them.
Death. But such kindly words. An accent of old regality and such deliberate courage that the Horns wanted to get up and follow him. He was already walking away when Ksmvr raised his hand.
Excuse me, King Fetohep. May I ask Your Majesty one question as a matter of utmost urgency for my future growth?
The Horns of Hammerad stared at Ksmvr in shock as the Antinium waved his hand politely. Fetohep turned and silenced the first screech from someone on the other end of a speaking spell.
Ask, Ksmvr of Chandrar.
Ksmvr of? Pisces lips moved soundlessly, and Ceria and Yvlon experienced a beautiful, pure quill of terror injected straight into their bladders. Ksmvrs question. It could be anything, and it was being directed to one of the most powerful rulers of
Ksmvr smiled brightly.
For the sake of reference, would you categorize your statements to Pisces and my team as a motivational speech and or other form of encouragement? How would you rate said efficacy of such statements? I have been informed boosting morale is a crucial talent to develop.
Fetohep of Khelt eyed the innocent Antinium for a second. Then he turned his head slightly to the left and tilted it just so. As if he were listening to something. He turnedand the adventurers got the distinct impression he was smiling. The grinning skull of preserved flesh opened its mouth ever so slightly, and the disembodied voice spoke as the eyes flashed brighter.
Five out of ten.
Oh. My scale is completely off, then. Thank you, Your Majesty.
The King of Khelt threw back his head and laughed once.
Hes laughing. Who are they?
The other occupants of the warship saw Fetohep laughing and gazed at the Horns of Hammerad with curiosity or a kind of awe, depending on who it was. Curiosity, faint recognition, extreme interestas the four got to their feet, those on the deck of the warship looked around and realizedhere they were.
This was the team. So, after the breathless ride of Fetohep, they had a moment to think. The first thing they did was size each other up and introduce themselves.
Everyone.
Not pictured in Pisces first look around the warship were the other Revenants, including the one, the only, Vizir Hecrelunn and Salui. Mostly because the other two had been catching the [Captain] of this vessel up to speed.
Salui and Hecrelunn certainly got the [Necromancer]s attention as they appeared on deck. Hecrelunn stared balefully at the Gold-rank adventurers, completely mystified as to why some of the Scourgeriders of Emrist had been deployed for them.
Vizir Hecrelunn and Salui were good counterparts to Fetohep, because what the Revenant King wasthey were complete contrasts to.
Fetohep appeared to be a fairly slender ruler, regal, eyes glowing gold with the dark purple robes of office decorated with every name of every person he had ever known and loved in life, the crown of Khelts rulers upon his head. He had lost the physique of life; flesh shrunk and clung to bone after so long. If he stood or moved with a warriors speed, it was often surprising. He certainly had the aura to match, but he was still a stately king.
Hecrelunn, by contrast, was the [Vizir] of Khelt. He had no burning flames in his eye sockets. Rather, he had two dots of red light which were far smaller and would contract with rage, ire, or all-consuming fury. His gaze was so intense it could leave a mark on a wall. Literally. He boiled with magic and authority, and he floated off the ground, ever gazing downwards at whomever he addressed.
His robes were black and purple and red and orange, like the very gates to some abyssal domain, and his voice was clipped, sarcastic or biting when he was in a good mood, and the Vizir referred to the Vizir in the third person.
Contrasted to both, Salui was twice the size of either Revenant, and even if you put Fetohep and Hecrelunn together, you would not get thetheintensity of Salui.
He trembled. The deck quivered around him. If there were little birds or animals like Yinah around, they would be running for the hills because Salui oozed a potential for violence. Even in death, his muscle and flesh refused to rotwhat Selphids called Galas-muscle was his body.
He made Draugr seem skinny. The pink flames in his gaze were either a herald of imminent violenceor confused. As a dreamer might look, trying to discern a fragile world where everything came undone with a push from reality. The only time he seemed focused, calm was when Fetohep brought up King His-Xe, Saluis great friend and ruler, to him.
The two Revenants were so potent that even the crew of Sand at Sea, who had been made Revenants as well, souls of living beings trapped in undead flesh, walked wide of them. They talked and acted like what they were: [Sailors], albeit of a Kheltian warship that had been a legendary pirate vessel in days of old.
But none of the [Sailors] tried to spit at or swaggered around Hecrelunn or Salui. Indeedthe inhabitants of Fetoheps warship were all watching each other. They all recognized the others. Not all of them, but some were just famous.
Like the two Named Adventurers, Frieke of formerly Medain and Alked Fellbow. A discerning eye also instantly picked out the [Knights] from Terandria as well, being [Knights]. Ditto for the nervous half-Elves keeping well away from all the undead. Who they were? Questionable.
And, of course, everyone knew the really famous ones like the Arbiter Queen, the King of Duelsarguably Jecaina over her father because one had appeared on the televisions more. In fact, the most notable and obvious person on the ship that everyone could name was him. The legend himself, who all of Chandrar could probably point out:
Ksmvr of Chandrar. It was natural, then, that once everyone recognized him and realized it was the Horns of Hammerad, they gravitated towards them. The bandaged man and the grim fellow with the spear? Completely unrecognizableto most. Orthenon had never been one for portraits, and the King of Bandages neither looked nor sounded like a living legend. All you could hear him say was
Mbigh the Mtingnim.
Your Majesty?
Orthenon was cursing the lack of a proper escort. He had barely made it himself when hed heard about the warship; he would have taken a full complement including Mars, Venith, Maresar
But Maresar was dead. The [Steward] had forgotten that. Teresa Atwood wasnt here either. It seemed Fetohep had meant what hed said truly. He had taken the most dangerous for this voyage. It spoke to the fact that he believed even Teresa might perish in the coming battles.
That Flos Reimarch was here did not surprise Orthenon, although it was unwelcome. He was not one to abandon a challenge or adventure, and this? This promised to not only heal him, but be a journey even The King of Destruction would want to tell.
Thmights. The. Manhtinium.
Flos enunciated with clear pain and annoyance, and Orthenon began to understand.
Yes, Your Majesty. The Antinium. Ksmvr of Chandrar. Do you wish to meet them?
Flos nodded slowly, but he flicked his gaze around the ship. Orthenon looked aboutand immediately strode for Fetohep.
Your Majesty of Khelt.
Once again, Fetohep broke off from speaking with Galei of Wistram.
a sound mind in that wretched cesspool of fools. Make ready forexcuse me. Steward.
The two stopped, and Orthenon and Fetohep regarded one another. The [Steward] bowed slowly, precisely, and economically.
Your hospitality, Your Eternal Majesty of Khelt, is as always, gracious. Reim sails with you to whatever battle this may bring about. However, I believe your missive to my [King] indicated a healing potion capable of remedying his injuries? I request the use of it now.
Fetohep regarded the King of Destruction, who glowered at him with what might have been admiration and envy mixed. The King of Khelt tapped one finger to his lips.
Ah, a Potion of Regeneration. I intend to honor my word, Steward.
Then
I am preserving each potion in my armory for what may be a costly battle. Even in Khelts vaults, such potions are exceedingly rare. They may be needed for aritual. I have set one aside for King Reimarch.
Orthenon twitched slightly.
Now would be
most gratifying for Flos Reimarch, I am sure? It would also inspire him to go his own way at the first venture, I have no doubt. I will not have him interfering in my battles, Steward. He may deploy his Skills in safety.
I must insist. A battle is no place for an already wounded king, and my lord requires healing.
Orthenons voice had grown cold. Fetohep ignored the intensity in Orthenons voice.
It may be the only thing keeping him from charging into the enemy with his bare hands. Consider that, Steward. I am no stranger to the King of Destructions whimsy, and neither are you.
Orthenon hesitated. He did know Flos Reimarch. Fetohep turned his head slightly, and both imagined what Flos might do. They knew where they were headed. The idea of him trying to capture Zeres by himself did not seem implausible. Fetohep took advantage of Orthenons hesitation and lifted a finger.
Allow me to propose a fitting compromise. A single Alchemists Portion should heal his tongue enough to speak, but not to fight and exert himself to his fullexuberance.
An Alchemists Portion was not a drop of potion. A drop could very well do a lot of healing with such a powerful draught. An Alchemists Portion was about as generous as they tended to be with anything that didnt involve gold. It was about as much liquid as you needed to wet the tip of your finger.
I shall accept that proposal on behalf of His Majesty.
Indeed. Then, consult with one of my subordinates. Once they have prepared a proper ampule, I will summon it from Khelts vaults.
Fetohep directed a speaking stone at Orthenon, and the [Steward] bowed. He passed by the annoyed King of Destruction and delivered the contents of the exchange. A huge growl was Orthenons reply, but Flos couldnt hide the eagerness in his nod. He had to be in pain; the bandages were slightly red even from him standing.
Stillhe was already walking into the conversation around the Horns of Hammerad. The problem was
A [Knight] gave the bandaged fellow a blank look as he walked over. He was adjusting his armor nervously, and he called out.
Heres a wounded man! Is there a [Healer] on deck? Potions? A strange lot, to be sailing under one banner, eh? Antinium and undead. Surely we dont need wounded folks! Whats next? Children? Cats? Ser, do you need healing? Please, sit!
He motioned to the outraged man, who indignantly said.
Migb the ming of
The [Knight] gave him a completely nonplussed look and saw him wave away the healing potion.
Must be injuries too severe. Or maybe its a Revenant as well? Ser Soltonare you sure this is wise?
A nervous young woman whispered in his ear. The [Knight] adjusted his armor as he tucked the potion back. He had an odd insignia emblazoned on strangely grey, battered armor that looked quite well-madebut didnt have the coats of paint on every other [Knight]s gear.
It wasa single stack of gold coins on a balanced scale? The [Knight] removed his helmet to wipe at his brow.
A strange change of fortunes, Squire Cathenay, but I do not doubt my ears. Are our fellow [Knights] safely aboard their vessels?
The young woman, also wearing plain armor that had the insignia, glanced to the other ships sailing in the wake of the warship. They were the Crusades own vesselsand ships looted from Medains harbor, some filled with undead, others bearing [Knights] and the living.
Safe, although many have sworn not to take up arms under Khelt, merely to forgo battle.
Well, each to their honor. But I believe strange company and these ill times call for stranger deals. We do not just sail with hated undead, Cathenay, but Named Adventurers of Chandrar, who are valorous, and even honorable legends such as the King of Jecrass. Let usintroduce ourselves. But fetch this poor man a chair, first!
He indicated the bandaged fellow, and his [Squire] bowed and hurried off. Then Ser Solton joined the general group of people talking.
Excuse me, excuse medoes anyone have a chair for that man? Does anyone know where we are bound? I am Ser Solton of the Order of Haegris, in service to the Terandrian Crusade.
He bowed as a trio of half-Elves turned. Solton recognized them. They were fromthe Claiven Earth?
The Herald of the Forests and two half-Elves were very uneasy and very nervous as they jumped and gazed at Ser Solton. He bowed at once.
Dame Herald. You are present as well?
Apparently so.
She didnt seem convinced this was real either. The Herald of the Forests, Ierwyn, one of the most famous half-Elf warriors of her time, glanced uneasily around the ship.
It was the condition for the Claiven Earths surrender. We all sail againstwhatever Fetohep of Khelt has seen. Seamwalkers or worse.
Ser Solton was astonished.
Then the Claiven Earth has surrendered?
Unconditionally. What that meansit was a magically enforced seal. They have done nothing yet; the armies are slowing as they reach the shore, and some have returned to Khelt. Should we have held out?
Before all the Revenants and those legions?
The half-Elves were clearly unhappy, but they had all witnessed the terrible magics Khelt had unleashed, the endless armiesand not a one doubted they would have been swept away if it had come to battle.
Indeedwere they on the same side? Ser Solton eyed the Antinium, but decided he had to introduce himself. It was, after all, a fundamental of his order.
Excuse me. Excuse me. Am I interrupting? Ser Solton of the Order of Haegris.
He bowed his way into the group around the Horns. Frieke of Khelt, Alked Fellbow, and none other than Queen Jecaina of Jecrass were standing with the Horns, who looked shockedbut remarkably well put together.
Ser Solton had just been staring for the lasttwenty minutes? Yet the Horns seemed like they had done this before. If nothing else, they were remarkably aware of their surroundings.
While the other groups tried to process what had happened, the Horns had taken in Fetohep of Khelts words, calmed downand grabbed food.
A woman with extraordinary metal arms was holding what looked like some fanciful dish of lobster baked with a variety of delicious condiments while it was still in its shellthat was what she held it inand a spoon. Her team was more indecorous, and the Antthingwas gobbling grapes off a vine while the young man with white robes shakily created a sandwich out of no less than fourteen hovering condiments.
The final creation was so huge that when he tried to put it into his mouth it wouldnt go, even when he squashed it together. So he just started taking bites out of the midsection.
The half-Elf had crammed half a plate of food into one cheek and seemed to be adding to it and swallowing as she talked while feasting on what might have been six duck patties stacked together and slathered in sauce.
They were so disgusting that their audience was slightly speechless as they watched the Horns cramming their faces full of food. The Antinium actually had a second, smaller mouth, and the mandibles only helped him deliver said food into his actual orifice. As for the half-ElfSer Solton had never seen an eating technique like that. He kept catching glimpses of everything when she opened her mouth too widely.
He might never forget it.
Whos this? [Knights]? Dead gods, what happened? Whoshello. Im Ceria. The Order of Haegris? I know the Order of Seasons, but whore they?
Ceria spoke, spraying the air slightly, and Alked Fellbow eyed Ser Solton.
I dont know. Hello.
Frieke snapped her fingers a few times. She was a Dullahan who styled herself rather like a Human, her armor adjusted so it looked like she was just a Human wearing armor rather than distinctly a Dullahan; it came of living in Chandrar. Her companion, the gigantic falcon, Konska, was a Seahawk. She pointed at Solton in recognition.
Oh! Arent youHaggle Knights?
Solton paused as the bandaged man blustered forwards, just in time to enter the painful silence as his [Squire] brought over a chair. Frieke hesitated.
Er
The Order of Haegris has been referred to by that name, Miss Adventurer. We area mercantile [Knight] order in Terandria, who tend to conduct our affairs in the northern regions. May I ask who is present?
Solton bowed, and the others looked around.
Oh. Im Frieke of Medain, Named Adventurer. I meanKhelt! Frieke of Khelt! I am a [Beast Master]a [Falconer] specifically.
The Dullahan woman was flustered and bowed several times, looking as young as the Horns, despite being a number of years older. She seemed most in awe of everyone. Alked was next. He raised one weathered hand, looking as tough and rugged as an older Halrac.
I am Alked Fellbow, in service to Khelt. [Ranger] is my base class. I am a Named Adventurer.
Were the Horns of Hammerad. I am Ceria, the captainthis is Pisces, Ksmvr, and Yvlon. Were a Gold-rank team.
Ceria broke in smoothly, nodding around cheerfully. The rest of her team jumped; even Pisces, who was used to sniffing. But Ceria looked unruffled, and she had picked up on something.
There were a lot of important people here. The trick wasto play it cool. And no one was cooler than a [Cryomancer]. Ser Solton introduced himself and his [Squire]. Then the bandaged man cut in before the young woman wearing enchanted leather armor and carrying the rapier with the silver bell and the crown.
Nd I m the fring of frestrufun.
Everyone gazed at him. Ser Solton coughed.
This poor man appears to be injured. Cathenay, the seat, the seat!
The [Squire] offered it to the man, and he satbut looked indignantly as no one picked up on what hed said. All eyes turned to the last person, and the young woman bowed, eyes flicking around. She frowned longest at the bandaged man but without recognition.
I am Queen Jecaina of Jecrass.
The Arbiter Queen?
Frieke squeaked, and everyone stirred. Most had recognized her, if only vaguely, but it was one thing to see her, another to know they were in her presence.
Jecainaflushed slightly, but she had remarkable poise. She only nodded, looking, well, older. Older than an impetuous teen. Like someone who had held a nation together for however short a time.
Like a [Queen].
I have joined Fetohep of Khelt to rescue my father. From herewhere we are going only Fetohep knows, but I understand it is a mission of dire importance. Has he sequestered the aid of all of you?
It was a mark of this company that words on a Pisces-level were being tossed around regularly. Sequestered was easy. Or, if it wasnt, you had to pretend you knew what it meant or be outed.
Your Majesty, this is a huge honor. Ive seen all of your judgementsand youre the Antinium from the documentaries!
Frieke pointed at Ksmvr as Jecaina bowed to her. All eyes turned to Ksmvr. Pisces narrowed his.
What?
Ksmvr scratched at his antennae.
What? Oh, Rmis little camera. Yes, I am Ksmvr. Hello, Adventurer Frieke. As my superior, I hope to learn much from your guidance. Hello again. I am Ksmvr the Antinium, but I am not here to invade Chandrar. I do not eat people, and I am very friendly.
He beamed around, and everyone was treated to an Antinium smile. Yvlon broke in hurriedly.
Do youdoes anyone know what were supposed to do?
No one did. Jecaina, Bandages, Soltonall eyes turned to Fetohep, but he was engrossed in talking with dozens of people, including the angry Vizir Hecrelunn. Pisces scratched his chin, looking rattled.
It appearswe have to wait. Excuse me, Your Majesty? I take it you are a [Fencer] of some competence? You have a silver bell.
Jecaina blinked. She looked at Pisces and nodded slowly.
Yes. And youve been trained by a [Fencer] too. Are you a [Duelist]?
Pisces smiled thinly.
No. Nobut I would be honored to meet your father. A Gold-bell [Duelist] is someone one rarely gets a chance to meetmuch less the [King] who dueled the King of Destruction. Would that be possible?
Two furious, green eyes widened, but everyone else nodded. They looked at a tall, gaunt man standing alone at the railing. Jecaina hesitated.
He has been through a lot. Butmaybe it would help. I will ask. Before that. Can I inquire how each of you got here? And about
She looked at Ksmvr, and half the boat wanted to ask him questions, including the undead sailors. But the perspicacious ones also wanted to talk to the bandaged man, the half-Elf with the amazing circlet, and Yvlon Byres with her metal arms.
The company of so many famous peopleand then came the last. Every head turned as a man with eyes lit up by a thousand strands of color radiating from a single point, light pink and dotted with three faint brown points in each eye.
The Hero of Zethe himself stopped and looked at the Herald of Forests and Salui, who stopped trembling enough to point at him.
You. Youre real too.
The company of strange stories. And there sat Flos Reimarch as everyone began to introduce themselves, overlooked, unintelligible. In his worst hell.
The Order of Haegris are called Haggle Knights. Mostly because they do that.
What, haggle? Ive never heard of that. This is a joke. Like telling Izrilians that Terandrians really do have a salad fork at every meal, even the [Peasants].
Ceria just shrugged at Yvlon.
Youre a [Lady] of Izril. Whats so surprising? Theyre sort of well-known. Not famous for killing things, mostly.
Ive never heard of them. Are you sure this isnt a joke?
The half-Elf rolled her eyes.
Yvlon, we just met after nearly dying at the Village of the Dead. I was worried you were all kidnapped or hurtwould I lie to you?
Ymaybe. Okay, so theyre like my family?
Yesbut good at what they do?
Yvlon glowered at Ceria, and the half-Elf innocently backed away. The two adventurers were whispering as Ser Solton introduced himself around the ship.
Sorry, sorry. Its justthey have actual inventories. They buy whats valuable, be it windmills, fieldsand they use the money to defeat their Monsters of Society.
Their what?
Uh, poverty. Disease. Sometimes they go on quests to slay a shortage of corn. With a wagon of corn. Look, their founder was apparently a [Merchant]-[Knight]. See their armor? They dont like spending money on paint, so they just do the money bag.
It seems like a parody of [Knights].
Yvlon muttered a bit too loudly as she stared at Ser Solton. Instantly, someone objected.
I shall have you take that back, Dame Loudmouth! A [Knight] is a [Knight]! The Order of Haegris has saved thousands of lives each year with their charity! They are a model who have inspired even my own Kingdom of Ailendamus!
Someone slapped Yvlons arm with a glove. Both adventurers turned and saw an indignant Knight of the Hydra.
Im sorrywho are you?
Dame Thuile, at your service! I apologize for my introduction, but I must protest. It does not behoove a fellow [Knight] to besmirch one of their own kind. Neither the Claiven Earth!
The Hydra Knight had clearly gotten the wrong idea. She was looking from Cerias pointy ears to Yvlons metal arms and admittedly armored body and getting the wrong idea. Yvlon opened her mouth, but Ceria nudged her. The half-Elf had a twinkle in her eyes.
I am so sorry, Dame Thuile. What is your Knight Order?
The Order of the Hydra from the Kingdom of Glass and Glory, Ailendamus! I understand your leadership may not have desired this alliance, but we are pledged to fight evil wherever we see it, and the horrors from beyond the edge of the world supercede even undeath.
Ceria was bowing as the uppity Hydra Knight turned to Yvlon.
And you would be?
Yvlon was glaring out of the corner of her eyes at Ceria. The half-Elf seemed so relaxedeven for her and a veteran of Erin shenanigans. She was still wearing the circlet that shed stolen from The Putrid One, and she had a look of mischief in her gaze.
She clearly wanted to play a prank on this [Knight], and Yvloneyed the angry woman and smiled blandly. Ceria interjected for Yvlon.
This is, uh, Dame Yvlon. Of the Order of
She hesitated only a moment.
Solstice! The Order of Solstice. Shes a [Knight] of one, who just arrived in the crusade, and now were headed back. Terribly sorry; shes new.
Yvlon rolled her eyes, but the Hydra Knight only did a double-take for a second.
The Order of Solstice? Ah, of course. Izrilians. Well, milady, your reputation precedes you. I bear no grudge, though we will be enemies on Terandria. Rather, I congratulate you. Is Ser Solsticeno, it must be an assumed title, eh? Is he your Orders champion or some veteran knight?
Yvlon felt her hand being pumped up and down as she and Ceria exchanged a sudden glance.
Ser Solstice of Izril?
Oh, dear me. Havent you been keeping up with? No, I suppose if you werent on a vessel with a scrying orbthe war in Terandria, you know.
That was how Ceria and Yvlon, now grinning like the Revenant undead, were treated to a discussion of Ser Solstices valorous and sometimes unorthodox deeds on the battlefield and the tragedy of General Dionamellas fall. Both half-Elf and Human kept staring at each other out of the corner of their eyes. They were having a silent argument bordering on the telepathic. Yvlon glared daggers into Cerias pale gaze.
You tell her.
No, you!
This is your fault! Its got to be a coincidence, right?
Ser Solstice. Coincidence? Wanna bet?
They knew. But they didnt know who it wasonly that it was connected. And like silly lies
I had no idea the Order of Solstice had joined the Crusade. But thenyour Order must be very new.
Ceria smiled blandly as she sipped from a cup of colorless wine.
Practically just invented.
Yvlon stepped on Cerias toes hard, but the Hydra Knight didnt notice. She peered at Yvlon.
Are your arms part of your class, Dame Knight? Somemagical prosthesis from House Terland?
No, as a matter of fact, Im an adv
Adventurous, courageous warrior! Who gained her metal arms by valor in battle. Fighting, uhGoblins. Gigantic Goblins. Its actually part of her entire Orders Skills.
Dame Thuiles gaze locked on Yvlons arms, then on Cerias face. A look of cunning realization passed over her expression, covered by a very poor bland face.
Of courseof course. And the rest of your Order would have metal limbs. Goblin Slayerwill you excuse me a second? I find myself in pressing need of a privy.
She hurried off to find a speaking stone as Yvlon whirled.
Ceria! What the hell was that?
What? Its not going to do any harm. And its hilarious.
The half-Elf grinned, her eyes lighting up with humor. Yvlon just gave her an odd look. It was funnyand in another circumstance, Yvlon would have gone along with the prank. Silver-rank adventurers, maybe. But it was just a bitoff. And Ceria was still so relaxed. Yvlon took a deep breath.
Im so glad youre okay. I didnt know where you were. Ksmvr I knew about, but when I heard Pisces was a [Slave]
Cerias gaze softened. She lowered the cup and patted Yvlon on the arm.
I was worried too. Im sorry I didnt find you. I haddifficulties. Youll never guess what I ran into when I landed. A certain monster decided to pay the village that rescued me a visit. Three guesses which?
Yvlon hesitated.
Some sand thing like one of the worms? A Mantino. There isnt any way.
Ceria just smiled wryly.
It turns out Crelers can detect if youve killed their kind. Adult ones, anyways.
You killed a
I had help. Relax! Relax! And I had to put on the circlet, but good newsits not going to melt my brain. Theres a few interesting things, but what happened to you?
The Hydra Knight was reporting the Order of the Solstice news to her [Grandmaster] while Yvlon and Ceria talked. Pisces and Ksmvr had been dragged off by Jecaina to meet King Raelt, and Bandages had followed. The two were so engrossed that they barely noticed another interested group approaching.
Excuse me, may I interject? I couldnt help but hear you were from the Claiven Earth. Sister.
Ceria turned andgulpedas she saw a detachment of half-Elves walking across the deck. Yvlon looked at the Herald of the Forests and stiffened at once. Ierwyn saw Ceria hesitate.
Uhwellthats a lie.
Yes. Am I addressing the Horns of Hammerad?
The two young women instantly bowed as Ierwyn and several senior half-Elves introduced themselves. One kept staring at Cerias circlet, but their greatest [Mage] had refused to jump on a ship. As for Ierwyn
Are you allies of Khelt, adventurers? Or merely participants to King Fetoheps designs?
Ceria and Yvlon exchanged looks. Yvlon answered for both.
We have never met theking, Lady Ierwyn. But one of our friends appears to have met him.
Somehow.
The Heralds brows rose.
Indeed? Someone who has met the King of Khelt and gained his respect is no light name. May I ask it? Would it perchance beTrey Atwood?
She delivered the line like a blademaster drawing back her sword for the final thrust in a graceful dance. Andmissed completely as the two adventurers gave her a blank stare.
NoErin Solstice.
Oh.
The half-Elves all murmured; this sounded like the truth, but it threw a wrench in their intelligence. Ierwyn collected herself almost immediately.
May I ask where she hails from? What she does? And I must confess, I would like to personally greet a fellow half-Elf. Excuse me for the rudeness, Adventurer Yvlon, but we are a far-flung species.
IuhIm so embarrassed. And so sorry about the joke!
Ceria turned beet red, much to Yvlons satisfaction, and stammered as she and Ierwyn held out hands and touched fingertips. It was a very half-Elven greeting, and Ceria performed an odd bow that Yvlon had never seen.
Are you from one of the villages, rather than a city, then?
IIyes. The Village of the Spring. Ive heard of the Claiven Earth, but I never thought Id meet you
The half-Elves were smiling, and Yvlon took that moment to get a drink of water. On the way back, she heard Ceria exclaiming.
Left my village, actually. Itscomplicated.
The half-Elves all nodded.
Then we will not dig. We left our homes to create the Claiven Earth. Have you met more of our kind on your travels?
UhFalene Skystrall. Oh, and
Ceria hesitated for one visible second, then lowered her voice.
Alchemist Irurx. I was in Savere, and I met his ship at port and survived it. Shifthold.
The effect on the half-Elves was dramatic. All but Ierwyn recoiled instantly in clear horror. Yvlon herself hesitated. Thatdid not sound like a good name.
You have met the Writhing Alchemist? That monster? How? And how did you escape?
Ceria had to relate a bit about Saveres port laws and her encounters with the Siren as Yvlon listened in horror. She told the story matter-of-factly, economically, but also with a certaindetachment. She was clearly sparing everyone the horrific details, Yvlon realized. Even the Herald was shaking her head at the end of the tale.
Then you are an adventurer in truth, sister, to have met one of our worst traitors and lived. And you journey in strange company.
She meant Ksmvr and Pisces. Yvlon re-entered the conversation as Ceria waved it away.
I would like my kin in the Claiven Earth to know that Antinium are people, Ierwyn. Some might beobeying orders, but they are a people in service to their Queens. I would trust Ksmvr with my lifeI have time and time again. Hes odd, but funny, loyal, and he would be an Elf-friend if I went home in good standing. I hope youll think on that.
I surely will. A people is different from a plague.
Ierwyn met Cerias gaze as she turned to Yvlon.
And you, Adventurer Byres, I thank for your forbearance. It has been a long time since even the Claiven Earth have met someone else with a Melded class. Did you gain it by injury or affinity? I apologize if it is a painful question.
Yvlons mouth opened. Cerias ears perked up.
AIwhat? A Melded class?
Ierwyn blinked at Yvlon, and the [Silversteel Armsmistress] realized
Half-Elf. She was very, very old.
Your arms are metal. Some half-Elves have replaced limbs with root or even vine, though it is an exceedingly rare class. Beyond a simple prosthesismetal has replaced skin. Has no one told you? Your new class is the kind that made Men of Metal. Or Women of Metalit may subsume or join with any class you have, be it [Knight] or otherwise. You must choose. Or else you will gain Skills that mean more than your arms will be metal. In time
Yvlons head spun. She lifted her reflective metal arms and stared at her face as they reflected moonlight and stars. In timeshe would become entirely?
With the little bit of Regeneration Potion, Flos Reimarch only healed enough to stop breaking scabs and flesh open with each move. His tongue was still damagedbut he had worked out a better system to communicate.
The spray of vomit coming from the woman with metal arms splattered him for a second time that night as he lifted a hand. Orthenon dodged it entirely.
Your Majesty.
He offered Flos a handkerchief, and the King of Destruction sighed. Then he turned back to the person he had sought out.
Mey meeth again, mero mf mefe.
The silent, somber man with a single sword at his side stared at the King of Destructions placid green eyes. Orthenon translated.
My liege is injured. I shall translate for him. We meet again, Hero of Zethe.
Ah. King of Destruction.
The Hero of Zethe, a farmer who had a family in the middle of nowhere, bowed very slowly. Flos Reimarch smiled.
Meh mth
(My mind returns to the time we fought. I thought you dead. Where have you been hiding?)
The [Hero] waited for the translation. Indeedmany didnt recognize him, but those that did, even [Knights], were in awe.
For here was a [Hero]. Not a famous [Knight]. Not a Named Adventurer.
A [Hero].
His legend was in the history books. But the man himselfhe looked like he was a casual farmer, dressed in simple clothing. Simple clothing that never tore and had survived for decades, made of finest thread for when he wanted to be anonymous. The rich, regal clothing he had been adorned in when they cheered his name had long since rotted or been sold.
Indeed, anonymity suited him. Until the day he had seen Fetohep calling for aid.
We battled only twice, King of Destruction. Your legend was on the rise, and I saw your armies marchingbut I had no strength to fight you, even as invaders. You had a just enough cause.
(I had every cause and need.)
The Hero of Zethe paused. He met Flos gaze and shook his head, straight to the King of Destructions face.
You had a just enough cause. I wearied of war. Just as I tired of being called Hero of Zethe. Only for Fetohep of Khelt did I take up a sword. Because what we are doing will avert disaster for the ones I love. I trust to that and hope you will let me rest in anonymity afterwards.
Flos frowned mightily at the man.
(But your great abilities waste to nothing. Did the man who broke the Storm of Soldiers truly lose all fire? All passion? You)
Orthenon leaned over.
What was that? I apologize, Your Majesty. Ahyou disappoint me, Doubte of Zethe.
The [Hero] just shook his head. He gave Flos a searching look.
I cannot understand it. You have been Chandrars legend, not I, for twenty years. Before that, you became the worlds most famous [King], or infamous, and you beheld no limits. You have conquered more than I. Lost more than I, perhaps. You have seen greater wars and greater loss. How can you still continue? Dont you tire of it?
He and Flos looked at each other, and the King of Destructions ardor faded slightly. They were very different men, but in thisOrthenon saw a shadow, a mirror of the same look he had seen for twenty years. Flos Reimarch wavered and then met the Doubtes gaze.
(Something else is coming, Hero Doubte. My dream was not enough, you are right. But I have found a new one, even larger. It is not just selfishness that impels me. In time, you will see it too. Perhaps it is all connected, Fetoheps great battle, the secret I hold, and the rest. Will you not consider picking up your sword?)
Doubte shook his head, yet he was rattled by Flos words. He strode down the deck a few pacesthen strode back.
If what you say is truewill you swear to it, [Steward]? I would ask Mars of Destruction, but I will ask you.
The man who had once battled Mars to a standstill and gone on to face an army and force it back turned to Orthenon. The [Steward] just nodded.
It is a great change that is coming, Hero. It may not realize itself immediatelybut I now believe time is running out.
Doubte closed his eyes.
Then my family and I must find another way. Or I must become that [Hero]. Perhapsthen perhaps it is time to pledge my sword to Khelt. If Khelt is even safe now.
(Wait, what? What about me?)
Doubte turned away. He looked back over his shoulder only once.
I do not care for you, Your Majesty of Reim. Perhaps we will meet again, but you make such terrible war. I will thank you for one thing. If you have ever known how to create [Heroes]make no more. Even for your own ends. This classis too much. I was not the first [Hero], but may I be the last. This class does not fit in the rest of the world.
Then he left the two, to be alone with his own things. Flos folded his arms, frustratedbut he perked up as someone who had been eavesdropping gasped.
His Majesty of Reim? Thethe King of Destruction!?
Hydra Knight Thuile pointed at Flos in horror, surprise, andbacked over the railing and went into the surf, headfirst. Flos Reimarch brightened up as every head turned and people whirled. They looked at him and cried out in surprise.
Well now. That was more like it.
Did someone just say that bandaged man was the King of Destruction?
Pisces head slowly rose. He looked about. Then he turned to his left.
Ksmvr, pinch me. Ow!
Ksmvr pinched Pisces with all three hands.
Is that suitably hard enough, Comrade Pisces? I have not perfected my pinching skills, only my cat-petting abilities. I am now capable of triple ear scratches. Would you like me to show you?
Stay away from my ears.
The [Necromancer] slapped Ksmvrs hands down, almost laughing, and it was true their comedy bit was practically guaranteed with Pisces and Ksmvr in the same room.
However, even that bit of humor, the sheer oddity of it and Ksmvrs polite tone and mystified hurt as to why anyone would deny ear scratchies, was enough.
Raelt of Jecrass, drinking orange juice, sprayed it out of his nose and mouth. The fine mist hit his daughter, Alked, and everyone downwind.
Father!
Im sorry. Imthis isnt a dream.
Raelt was coughing and wiping at his face, but he was laughing. He looked at Pisces, who eyed the gold-bell duelist and King of Jecrass that had been prisoner of Medains [High King] for months.
The [Necromancer] hesitatedthen offered the man a handkerchief.
Could I offer you this, sir? Its very clean.
Raelt accepted it, and Ksmvr saw Pisces watching Raelts every move. The [Necromancer] looked at Ksmvr, then at Flosand then back at Raelt.
It was very, very rare for Ksmvr to see Pisces in awe of anyone. But this? This would be, if he went back to The Wandering Inn and Erin Solstice were there to provide helpful slang from her world
Well, this would be Pisces fanboying for the King of Duels.
Thank youPisces, was it? I apologize, Adventurer Fellbow.
Think nothing of it, Your Majesty. Ive known far worse at parties.
Raelt eyed Alked, some of his humor fading a bit as he returned the handkerchief to Pisces. The [Necromancer] accepted it with a slight bow, and Ksmvr saw his eyes were locked on the bell on Raelts rapier. It hadnt chimed, not once, and it looked to be a very sensitive bell. But Raelt did move with a certain grace Ksmvr struggled to find many equals to. The King of Jecrass turned to Alked.
Yesyou would. Hemp in Nerrhavias Fallen?
It was one of those statements that said a lot but made no sense unless you understood what it meant. Alked gazed at Raelt and nodded, one Chandrarian to another.
Youre familiar with it, Your Majesty?
Ive travelled to Nerrhavias Fallen. Its amazing they dont treat Named Adventurers
Raelt caught himself, glanced around, and then seemed to catch himself twice. He shook his head as he looked around the Kheltian ship far at sea.
Well. I suppose here is safe enough, and youre part of Khelt now? Ive knownincidents with Stitch-folk. Entire clans expelled over issues withcloth.
Both Alked and Raelt looked uncomfortable, and the Named Adventurer nodded.
That informed my decision to join Khelt, and His Majestys generosity. I hope you feel he has acted swiftly?
Raelt shook his head, then shrugged.
NoI mean to say, of course. I didnt expect anyone would pry me out of Medain unless the King of Destruction took it or Perric got his way. That Khelt marched on themand all because of you, Jecaina?
He turned wondering eyes to his daughter, and the Arbiter Queen ducked her head, looking younger and tired. And relieved.
I gave a third of Jecrass away to do it, Father.
A thirdahunder very strenuous circumstances, Your Majesty!
Pisces interjected. He flushed and wavered.
Im sorry. I hesitate to interject, but I must add that from what I saw of the situationit was a war that could only be lost without outside aid.
Raelt paused only a second before nodding.
Its the soundest move. Aside from Herdmistress Geraeri joining Jecrasswhich she never would have doneyou sold her land to Fetohep?
Ishe was inadvertently on it, Father.
The King of Jecrass couldnt hide the smile, and the look both rulers gave the Centauress nervously trotting around, slightly seasick, was not fond. Ksmvr nodded.
I do not understand the entire nuance of these statements as I was not there, but I understand this Herdmistress is objectionable?
Ksmvr! Dont interrupt!
Pisces nudged his companion, but Ksmvr patted Pisces arm.
Do not worry, Pisces. I am used to speaking with rulers.
Raelt gave Ksmvr a blank look, but nodded.
Herdmistress Geraeri isdifficult, Antinium Ksmvr. She is an uncontrollable force who can do much good or illa problem for any ruler. But she is a good womanjust as stubborn as a mule and inclined to support her own side. I dont know how else to put it. Its rare to have her in a nation.
Both adventurers looked at each other.
Like Erin?
Yes, exactly.
Raelt and Jecaina raised their brows, wondering what an Erin was. Alked Fellbow just frowned at Pisces and Ksmvr. They changed subjects in the short silence as Alked nodded at Ksmvr.
So youre the only Antinium to ever become an adventurer. Will there be more?
Ksmvr looked struck.
I do not know. I was exiled. Perhaps. My people could do very well as adventurers. Maybe some will come to Chandrar. Although we would have to go over
He trailed off. Then he began to scream.
Aaaah! AAAAAH! Aaaaah! AAAAAAH!
Everyone nearly jumped out of their skin. Alked had a hand on his bow when Ksmvr calmed down.
I apologize. I remembered we werewe are surrounded by water! We are all going to drown! AaaaaaahI am better now, thank you.
Pisces patted Ksmvr on the shoulder, and the Antinium shuddered. He stared at the deck. Raelt looked at his daughter, then cleared his throat.
Isee. And you are a [Necromancer].
Pisces braced, but Raelt just looked at him expectantly.
Iyes, Your Majesty.
Hm. Wellits fascinating that you also were trained by a [Duelist]. Ive never heard of the class aside from Azkerash being viable, but thats proof in itself, isnt it? Are there any unique synergies between necromancy and dueling?
Pisces blinked as Jecaina turned. Alked just scratched at his chin, interested.
[Necromancers] dont become adventurers in Chandrar often, though there are lots of bones under the sand. I sometimes partied with one just to send a zombie as bait. None of them were good at fencing at all.
III do practice a bit of the sword. But I am hardly competent. I never earned a silver bell, though my finstructor was one, and I bested him in an actual duel. But Im just, aha novice.
Ksmvr felt at the back of Pisces neck as the [Necromancer] tried to swat his hands down.
Comrade Pisces, are you sick? You appear to be. I have never heard you describe your abilities in less than stellar terms.
A silver-bell? At your age? My daughter has one
Father.
The world knows about it, sure, Your Majesty! And your own duel was sublime
Raelt tried to wave this away, looking embarrassed.
It was the most disgraceful performance. I would have had that gold bell taken away. I dont know what I was thinking. No poison, and I kept getting trapped against that damn stone wall.
Not at all! Your Majesty, that was the most extraordinaryI hate to ask this of you, but I would be remiss not to ask for an autograph. And if you were ever so inclined to duelalthough your captivity
Pisces looked actually enamored. Ksmvr began poking him, just to get him to stop looking like that. Raelt looked embarrassed and pleased by the attention.
I wouldnt actually say no. The things I have wanted to stab while Ive beenand a rolling boatshipwhatever this thing is isnt a bad spot. Theres plenty of space. In fact, I confess Id love to see a Named Adventurer and this [Silver Illusion] sword school.
Pisces jaw dropped, and Ksmvr proudly stood upright.
I would acquiesce to your duel, King Raeltbut I believe I must first rejoin my captain and other teammate, Miss Yvlon, and speak to them first. As any good adventurer must.
Ksmvr! Hes the King of Duels!
And I am Ksmvr of the Horns of Hammerad. Pisces, do not embarrass me, please. You do not know how to talk to royalty. I do.
Ksmvr tried to cover Pisces mouth as Jecaina, Alked, and Raelt watched. Raelt lifted a finger.
Who is this royal person youve been speaking to, Adventurer Ksmvr?
Oh. Empress Nsiia of Tiqr. She and I are friends. Also, she is a dirty [Thief] who has stolen my sword. I wish to lodge that objection with her peerage.
Pisces goggled at Ksmvr. Alked and Jecaina had seen the documentary, but Raelt rubbed at one ear.
Clearly, a lot has changed since I left. I thought she was a [Prisoner]?
Ksmvr brightly looked at Pisces expression.
She was. But I landed in Illivere, and I freedshe accidentally escaped and we ended up on a journey together. Yes, that is what happened. Do not believe the lies. Also, there was Yinah, Domehead, and Spitty. I hate Spitty, but he saved my life, and I am motivated to mention this.
Raelt just stood there, blinking at Ksmvr. Pisces looked horrified, confused, and more horrified by turns, but then the King of Duels threw back his head and laughed. And thatthat felt good. It felt like healing.
Look at these meetings. The King of Destruction himself broke away from greeting his would-be foes and allies to watch Raelt of Jecrass take on his daughter and Pisces in a two-on-one duel.
(Ah, Raelt of Jecrass. I am pleased he was freed. Orthenon, I wish to meet that Antinium adventurer. Who is the other one?)
A[Necromancer]. Pisces Jealnet of the Horns of Hammerad.
The [Steward] confirmed after a moment. Flos Reimarch tapped his chin and winced with each tap. Now how did he know that name?
He shrugged. Half the [Knights] were queuing up to beg a duel from that famous man, and Flos saw even Orthenon and Fetohep watching with mild interest. He frowned and cursed his damaged body.
It was then that the buzz of conversation faded. Amidst the duel, the swell of waves, and all the resteveryone had quite forgotten the existence of the undead.
The ships crew were making the ship run, doing things with lines or ropessometimes just to look busy. As for Fetohep, he had been engrossed in conversation with all the other powers of the world.
It was Vizir Hecrelunn and Salui who had been aloof, watching. However, Flos eyes narrowed as Hecrelunn descended from above and Salui leapt from the prow of the ship.
A fight! You? Are you reaaaaaaaaaal
He swung his sword and crashed into the deck, scattering the combatants like flies. Raelt turnedand found himself staring at the Revenant.
Flos Reimarch just looked up at Hecrelunn.
Little king. We meet again.
The King of Destructions teeth bared as he met Hecrelunns gaze and remembered the last time they had met. To his credit, or perhaps, not, the [Vizir] didnt even bother to hide. Flos nodded.
(Yes, indeed, Vizir Hecrelunn. Orthenon?)
Your Majesty?
The [Steward]s eyes narrowed as he looked up at Hecrelunn. Flos Reimarch lifted a hand.
(Kill that Revenant, please.)
A fight broke out on deck as Orthenon pursued Hecrelunn. The [Vizir] was shouting insults as the [Steward] leapt from masts and over rigging, slashing at him. Salui was chasing around Pisces and Ksmvr on the deck when Fetohep strode out of the cabin fit for a [King]King Dolenm, to be preciseand roared.
Enough!
Everyone halted as Ceria drew a bead on Saluis back. Literallya bead of ice. He was resisting her magic so badly she couldnt even freeze him.
You wretched little
Hecrelunn spun with spells glowing off his fingertips, but Fetohep had his and Saluis measure. The Revenant was still chasing Pisces and Ksmvr, so Fetohep snapped.
Salui! His-Xe is in peril, and you waste your strength? By Khelta, silence Little Brother-King.
Hecrelunns glowing red eyes faded, and he came to a stop. Orthenon halted as Fetohep turned from Salui, who had gone still, to Orthenon.
I understand the Vizir Hecrelunn has offended The King of Destruction?
Yes, King Fetohep.
Then he shall pay for it. Afterwards. We have no time for petty disputes. Two issues have arisen. The first is that my Scourgeriders have begun their assault on Actelios Salash. If they failChandrar will know devastation.
The deck went silent as Fetohep walked across it. He turned his head towards Flos Reimarch, and even the King of Destruction was alert. Fetohep glanced ahead and shook his head.
The second is that petty fools are attempting to stymie our progress. Zeres has hired every ship on the sea to halt our fleet.
What? So we are sailing against the City of Waves after all? Why?
Someone exclaimed in dismay. Fetohep pointed a finger at a [Knight].
We sail to end the madness in the Meeting of Tribes. Not to make war on the City of Waves. These impertinent Drakes have nevertheless put a bounty upon Sand at Sea. They are also rallying their armadas to attempt to stop us.
The passengers quieted. Almost none were seafaring experts. A battle at sea was dangerous. They might have an ancient warship on their side, but the other ships in the fleet had no specialist [Admirals] or other sea-classes, and Zeresdid.
So what do we do?
Fetoheps eyes glinted.
Were things otherwise, I would simply destroy Zeres fleets. However, it may be that we can avoid needless deaths on the Drakes side. They have sent their armadas, but it is the mercenary ships that concern me.
(How many do we face?)
The King of Destruction frowned mightily. He had suffered his only major defeats mostly at sea. It was somewhat ironic he asked, because Fetohep gave him a sardonic look.
Currently? Just one. The Illuminary has accepted the bounty and is on a direct course towards us. I believe their [Captain] quite fancies the notion of besting Khelt, Reim, Jecrass, and half a dozen nations in combat.
Every head turned to Flos as the King of Destruction growled an oath.
Rasea Zecrew.
Six days after the Archmage of Chandrar had been freed from Wistram, the Illuminary, having lost all pursuers, turned across the sea, carrying two of the King of Destructions Seven.
Trey Atwood was a hostage. He hadnt been, but Raseas crew had tied him up with the other Earthers, Calac, and Goelv, and they were rolling around the storm-blown decks as the Illuminary surged towards their target.
Amerys and Gaziwere less easy to tie up. Gazi herself was standing with her back to a railing, her claymore raised. The crack in her armor was barely visiblewhat you saw was that giant, gleaming eye swiveling in every direction. Four lesser ones glowing with a different color in each, the pupils searing as they spun crazily from [Pirate] to [Pirate].
That smile. It looked eager to Trey, worriedto anyone who didnt know her, it was like watching a shark grin. Yet Gazi did not attack the Illuminarys crew. They were some of the greatest fighters at sea.
Similarlyeven the glowing woman skip-tripping across the world to keep up with the fastest ship at sea didnt rain down lightning bolts. Archmage Amerys, muscle so atrophied she didnt even have the strength to keep herself upright, robes billowing behind her, was far less impressive in appearance than Gazi, who had cultivated her look.
On the other hand, Trey saw Elena looking up and watching the cascade of electricity trailing behind Amerys like the grin of some thunder god. The dark clouds overhead split as the glowing avatar of lightning danced across the world like she was summoning a storm. Swaying, stepping like thunder across the sky, free.
Yet she did not attack. Nor did Gazi; this vessel was their only way to get to shore, and if it sank, Trey wondered if Amerys could carry all the Earthersor even herselfto safe harbor. Moreover, Rasea Zecrew and her crew were armed to the teeth, and this was their place.
So it was a good, old-fashioned standoff as the two of the Kings Seven argued with the laughing [Pirate Captain] currently trying to attack Fetohep of Khelts ship.
He had a ship? That was a stupid question. Of course Fetohep had a ship, but Trey Atwood knew the King of Khelt. The fact that Fetohep had personally rampaged across the north? Trey was very, very worried.
In fact, the only person more worried than Trey right now was the young girl pacing barefoot on the water-soaked decks as they crashed through waves. The Quarass of Germina was not being tied up. She had taken one look around and made one announcement when the [Pirates] betrayed their contract.
I will remember this.
No one had tied her up. She was still speaking rapidly into the stone.
Enter the Direten Sepulcher and retrieve the vessel within. Take it carefullycarefullyto the Djinni and inform Khelts representatives it is to be used exactly as stated. How much is Actelios Salash moving? How fast is it blinking?
Oh shit. The Quarass of Ger had the look of a woman seeing a disaster she had prepared for, hoped would never come, and was currently burning down her house while she was a thousand miles away.
In the backdrop of it all, Trey heard that laughter.
Rasea Zecrews head was thrown back. Half her face shone with the anglerfish side of her, a bright light replacing one eye. The otherHumanhad hair blowing into the wind around the hat of a [Pirate]. She stared ahead, that famous sword hanging at her side, holding the steering wheel of the Illuminary as the glowing ship sped towards its target.
Rasea! This is madness. Desist or the wrath of Reim and Khelt itself will be upon you!
The [Pirate] just shook her head. She looked ahead through that storm, and Trey almost thought he could see the Kheltian fleet.
Lights bobbing across the waves. Anda change to the storm billowing around them. Was it turning brown?
A sandstorm. Rasea aimed at the heart of it, eyes wide with delight.
There is the King of Destruction, the King of Khelt, the King of Duelslegends and stories. If I did not challenge them, what sort of [Pirate] would I be? Boys, get ready for the fight of your lives!
The [Pirates] cheered wildly as Gazi looked around in frustration. Mad as loons. The same energy that had persuaded Rasea to raid Wistram was impelling her to this battle. Trey wasnt necessarily worried for Fetohep, either.
He was more worried for himself and the Earthers because they were on the Illuminary. Trey had a good idea of what Fetohep could do if he lost his considerable temper. He also suspected this was a stupid, stupid battle. The Quarass glanced up, and her eyes met Treys.
They had no time for this. But Rasea was an ally. The Quarass gaze flicked towards the distant ship, and now Trey saw it.
A yellowed prow of bone breaking through the waves, surrounded by the sands of Chandrar. Three times the size of the Illuminary, glowing with old magic. Was that someone floating in the air, turning as they saw the [Pirates] approach?
Trey saw the flash of red for a second. Then he felt the people on that boat.
It was like approaching a bonfire the size of a skyscraper. Trey wanted to shield his face from the intensity of those overlapping auras. Yet Rasea was burning just as hot in reply.
This is the age I have always dreamed of. Prepare for boarding. Were going to ram them.
Now, the Quarass rose from the deck, and Gazis main eye swiveled towards her. Amerys was swooping down; neither would let their [King] be harmed, but they waited for the Quarass move. The wisest leader, the ancient, reincarnated being of Ger, looked at the distant warship of Khelt. She peered at the Illuminary, shooting at its side to ram itor even split the warship in two if the impact were hard enough. The [Pirates] were waiting, grappling hooks and boarding gear in hand. Laughing.
What would she do? Trey saw the Quarass glance ahead, then at himand then grip the railing. Hard. Gazi blinked at the Quarass. Then she grabbed the railing. Trey wriggled desperately as he remembered he was still trussed up.
Uh oh
The famous [Pirate] ship was coming straight at them. Which was a bad idea for them, because Doubte, the [Hero] of Zethe, was standing right next to Salui, a [Champion of War], the finest [Knights] from Terandrias Crusade, two Named-rank Adventurers, and Orthenon, with the Vizir Hecrelunn hovering overhead
And more. The Horns were in that more category, and they didnt mind. They were more wondering what everyone else was.
How would they deal with this? Fetohep of Khelt did not want to waste lives or energy, and the [Pirates] might do both. Or delay them long enough to run into that Drake armada. In fact, it was Fetoheps plan.
So, naturally, Flos Reimarch was standing at the railings, arguing with him, and Queen Jecaina and King Raelt were there too.
Rulers. They were arguing as they stood there, their auras warring in close proximity.
It shows that a child inhabits the body of an older man, boy, that you cannot even control those you hire.
Mggth minh mrds mr(Mighty fine words for someone too afraid to leave his borders, Fetohep!)
Both rulers glared at each other as an exasperated [Queen] broke in.
Excuse me, Your Majesties, but do we have a plan? They are about to ram us!
(We fight, of course!)
What? What is he?
He wants to fight. Just like Belchanyou cant see anything but war. Youve dragged every kingdom into your mess.
Raelt was glaring at Flos. The King of Destruction lifted his head.
(I have every reason, Raelt of Jecrass. Did Chandrar seem well to you? There is more than just this world at stake.)
Fetohep, Jecaina, and Raelt looked at each other as Flos delivered one of the grand secrets he had kept.
What? Someone translate for him.
No time. They are upon us. Follow my lead.
Fetohep of Khelt was watching the lighthouse surging through the waves. Every head turned to him, and bodies tensed. Yet the King of Khelt just stood there as even the King of Destruction grudgingly waited. ThenJecaina gulped, and Raelt swore under his breath. The King of Bandages began to smile.
What were they doing? Far behind the first wave of fighters, sensibly encased in ice, Ceria Springwalker waddled forwards and peered at the [Rulers]. They were just standing there. The Illuminary was coming straight at them.
Brace!
The Revenant [Captain] roared, and his undead crew stood to action. In the distance, over the roar of waves, Ceria thought she heard a laugh. A roar of voices to match even the Bloodtear Pirates. Her skin chilled as she locked eyes with that famous crew and a glowing figure aboard the ship.
Thenthe Illuminary tore through the storm. It plunged towards Sand at Sea like an arrow, a javelin hurled through the night. A missile the size of a warship that would spell untold damage for the weaker ship, a wallbreaking action an insane [Captain] would order.
The Illuminary aimed straight at the four rulers.
Fetohep of Khelt.
Flos, the King of Destruction.
Jecaina, the Arbiter Queen.
Raelt, the King of Duels.
And Vizir Hecrelunn! The fourfive great rulers stood there. And the Illuminary
bounced
off an invisible barrier in the world. Cerias eyes bulged as she saw the warship glance off something and the [Pirates] go crashing across the deck. A wriggling silkworm of a boy careened down the decks until a woman with an armored boot stopped him. The Illuminary went veering left.
What was that? Whatd we hit?
Rasea Zecrew was shouting in confusion, whirling the wheel and looking around. Her ship had survived hittingwhat? Magic? It wasnt half as terrible as the collision between warships would have been, but it had repelled them. She whirled back to the Kheltian warship as it surged onwards.
It was the Quarass, picking herself up from the impact shed expected, who answered. She sighed as she stared at the four rulers.
Their auras. That is a shieldof ego.
Ego. Arrogance. The very quality of a ruler, magnified with the fourfive self-important, all-consuming leaders. The Illuminary had just hit a manifestation of that quality in all five.
It hadnt even left a dent.
The smaller ship raced alongside Sand at Sea as Rasea screamed insults. She waved her sword as she strode to the railings.
I challenge you, Fetohep of Khelt! Come and fight me, stories of Chandrar!
Let me. Letmeletmeletmeletme
Salui was trembling, axe raised to leap across the waters, but Hecrelunn just sneered.
Allow me, Fetohep of Khelt. I will sink this obstruction.
He lifted a glowing finger, and the [Helmsman] of the Illuminary began to juke in alarm, sensing the magic. The ballistae aimed up as Khelts warship produced their own ship weapons.
However, Fetohep of Khelt ignored the voices. He strode to the railing of the ship and called down to Rasea, his voice ringing across the waters.
Rasea Zecrew! Desist your foolishness! We sail to end a war and perhaps even battle the horrors that climb the worlds edge! Follow me.
The [Pirate Captain] hesitated as she locked eyes with the golden flames of Fetohep. Yet she waved her sword in frustration.
And miss the opportunity to fight the greatest warriors I have ever laid eyes upon?
Fetohep lifted his chin. Another ruler might have negotiated with Rasea differently. Flos, Jecaina, Raelteach to their own way. But the ruler of Khelt simply roared across the sea. His voice was so loud that even the other ships trailing in his wake heard him.
Wretched little [Pirate]! Enough! I have no time to waste sinking your squalid, rotting boat. Follow me and fall into line or I will call across the world that when Khelt sailed against the City of Waves and every foe to do battle with the greatest of armiesRasea Zecrew lacked the spine to join them.
The woman on her decks recoiled as if Fetohep had hit her. If he had a Skill, that insult would have slapped her across the deck. Even the people on deck had to appreciate it.
Nice shot.
Yonder maiden has been verily upbraided.
She is almost certainly not a maiden.
I can confirm that.
I believe this is a good insult. Seven out of ten?
Oh, come on, you do better. Eight out of ten, surely.
Even the background dialogue was a cut above what Ceria was used to hearing. She was trying to find out who could confirm that part about Raseas lack of maidenly virtues as the [Pirate] hesitated. She was clearly torn between answering Fetoheps demands or answering him with a sword.
Scuse me. Scuse meget your flesh-faces out of my way.
Someone kicked through the crowd. An undead face pushed Frieke of Khelt aside, and the [Captain] of King Dolenms warship appeared at the railing. He looked at Fetohep as the ruler of Khelt turned to him.
Sire. Permission to parlay with the [Pirates] in language they understand?
It is granted.
Fetohep lifted a hand, and everyone saw the ghastly face of the rotted skeleton turn to the crew of the Illuminary. Two bright blue candles of fire shone as the [Captain] bellowed down to Rasea.
Climb aboard, [Pirate]! Theres no glory in being a footnote in this story. Weve got a hundred kegs of drink, and were going to write a legend in every book. Get on board.
Rasea lowered her sword. She peered up at the [Captain]. Then she spread her arms and laughed.
Well, why didnt you say so?
The Arbiter Queen, King of Khelt, and other rulers watched the Revenant call for ropes and a ramp to be lowered. He turned, and one blue flame winked at them.
Got to know how to speak to them, Your Majesties.
Without a single shot fired, a spell cast, or a drop of blood spilled besides Treys nosebleedthe Illuminary docked with Sand at Sea, and Rasea Zecrew came striding up onto the deck. She looked around and sighed, for this is where she wanted to be.
But that was only the prelude. Standing on the decks, the bandaged King of Destruction called out as he saw two figures coming up the deck. Trey was wiping at his nose as Gazi held him upright. He glanced up and saw Flos Reimarch spreading his arms.
Is thatFlos?
He looks injured.
Gazi peered up worriedly at Flos Reimarch, and then both saw Orthenon standing behind Flos as ever. A shadow. Treys eyes were round with wonder as he spied one of Serepts loyal half-Giants, the floating [Vizir], and even Gazi was taken aback by the strange company above.
But they were all background to the call from above. The King of Destructions spread hands lowered, and everyone looked up.
In the dark night, the sandstorm and raging waters abated a moment. The thundering skies of clouds drew back, exposing a bright moon. Lightning crackled through the airthen flashed away.
A line in the sky opened up, and there she descended. Archmage Amerys, drifting downwards, as the King of Destruction stepped away from the others and reached up towards her.
Her eyes, like the very heart of a lightning bolt, met his, green like the very lands he had dreamed of riding across. Amerys, the Calm Flower of the Battlefield, alighted on the deck, and the King of Destruction embraced her.
His greatest [Mage] looked at Flos Reimarch after so long. She had seen him slumbering for twenty yearsand now, a year after he had awoken, returned to life, they finally met.
Thiswas the stuff of stories. Everyone watched as Chandrars famous [King] met one of his Seven.
For good or ill. The Terandrian [Knights] watched with a mix of anticipation, knowing they could say they had been here, worry for the future, andsatisfaction.
Satisfaction, because they could hear Flos laughing in relief. Laughing, knowing his friend was safe. His companion.
Amerys was laughing too, but quietly. Tiredly. She was looking Flos up and down. The first words from her mouth were
You stink, and youre covered in injuries. Did you pick a fight with a Flame Elemental again?
(No, I was fighting a Djinni, actually)
What? Cant you speak? I am gone for a year and youve crippled yourself. A year? And you send Gazi to rescue me? What are you doing on this ship?
Flos muttered something incomprehensible, and Amerys just stared at him as Orthenon approached.
Amerys. It is good to see you.
Ah. Wonderful. A man with no tongue, and a man with no personality. Where is Mars? Gazi! Where are you?
Amerys was quick, and her gaze flashed with mockery, but then she and Orthenon looked at each other, and the [Steward] touched her arm.
You look thin. Tired. I will find you something to eat, and you will rest as long as you need. Thenwe will avenge every wrong on Wistrams head.
Amerys tightened a weak grip on his shoulder.
Ah, Orthenon. I will hold you to that. How has it been? You, who waited the longest with the King of Sloth.
(Im right here.)
Both his vassals ignored him a moment. Orthenon threw back his head and stared up. Then he smiled at Amerys, who grinned, as fast as a flash.
Almost worth the wait. It is good to see you back, Calm Flower. Chandrar has need of your wisdom and grace.
She was laughing at that when Gazi strode onto the deck. She caught sight of Flos but was too slow to avoid his bear hug as he swept her up.
My lordenough. This is a public moment
The embarrassed Gazer protested, but then there were three of them, all standing together as Orthenon nodded at Gazi.
Well done.
Fair praise, coming from you.
The two looked at each other as Amerys began to laugh louder.
Ah, there is the Dour Couple. The worst match in Chandraror so I said until Orthenon began to send poetry and flowers and I learned Gazi could blush like anyone else!
She put her arms around both of them to lean on their shoulders, and both promptly shrugged her off. Amerys almost fell down, but Flos held her, and his head turned.
(Where is Trey?)
There.
Every head turned, and the young man climbing onto the deck suddenly found himself at the center of attention. Trey Atwood froze, but then Flos was striding across the deck to him. Amerys sighed and looked around.
Now thisthis is something even we have not seen. I wish we were all here. Drevish is dead, Gazi told me, Orthenon.
Yes. He did not die of age or in battle, but of treachery.
The [Steward] bowed his head. Amerys looked up.
Takhatres and Mars live?
Yes.
She exhaled.
Four out of the Seven, plus you. It will be enough. Tell mewhy is Khelt sailing? Where are we bound? Then we shall go back and avenge Drevish. I am tired, Orthenon. But I feel myself growing stronger with each second. Let me lean on you a moment?
For answer, he extended an arm, like they were going to some dance or occasion.
You weigh less than His Majesty.
Amerys chuckled again. It seemed like that was when everyone finally exhaled and realized they were part of this scene as well. The first person to move was Rasea Zecrew.
She had a tankard in hand, and she took the largest gulp in the world. Misty-eyed, she grabbed the nearest person by the waist and squeezed.
This is what I came here to see. Stories. And who are you?
Frieke stared at Rasea. Say it. You had to say itshe had a terrible sense of dj-vu.
Dead gods. Look at this. This isamazing. Are we seeing this? Pinch me, Ksmvow!
Ksmvrs patented triple-pinching technique convinced Ceria this was real. Indeed, it was so real that one of Gazis eyes swiveled around from explaining what had happened to Flos with Trey as Fetohep strode over, and she caught sight of the Horns of Hammerad.
Ah. Your Majesty.
(Hm? Begone, Fetohep. My loyal subject and I must have words.)
Flos Reimarch was flapping a hand at Fetohep, and the King of Khelt was losing patience, but Gazi whispered to Flos.
My eyes do not deceive methose are the Horns of Hammerad. I fought with some of them, briefly. That is the [Necromancer] I mentioned.
(Oh?)
Flos head turned. And then he wasYvlon made a squeaking noise, and everyone stared at her.
Hes looking at us, Ceria! What did you do?
Not me! Pisces! What have you done?
I have done nothing! I have been the exemplar of good conduct
I shall introduce myself. I know how to talk to royalt
All of the Horns grabbed Ksmvr. Flos Reimarch was listening to Gazi, even as he looked at Amerys, but the Archmage of Chandrar had spotted a buffet. Like any good Wistram [Mage], she was pulling a Telim with the food.
Mf mghts myrlly
Dead gods, enough!
The mumbling King of Destruction had clearly aggravated everyone who wanted a clear understanding of what was going on. Even Fetohep of Khelt considered this had maybe lost its appeal.
However, it was the one, the only, the Vizir Hecrelunn who lost all patience at last. He pointed at Flos, and Orthenon and Amerys whirled.
Enough, you mumbling king. [Tongue of the Sphinx: Clarity]!
The King of Destruction blinked a few times. Then he tried his voice. A booming voice, his true voice, echoed from the bandages, perfectly restored.
I can speak? At last! Gazi, my beloved servant, my wondrous Gazeris that truly the [Necromancer] you told me about? The one you called the prodigy of his generation? I must meet him.
His booming voice echoed around the ship. The Horns of Hammerad went still, and all of them looked at Pisces. The [Necromancer] went whitethen red as a beet.
Gazi the Omniscient said that about?
He squeaked. Then they realizedFlos was coming across the decks straight at them.
He can make those? Ah, I wondered if we could have one. What did I say before? Too dangerous? Khelt has all their Revenants. What about the [Innkeeper] and that City Runner? What was her name?
Erin Solstice, Your Majesty.
Then the King of Destruction in bandages was looming over the Horns. Fetohep of Khelts head turned as he heard Gazis comment, and the people on the deck of the ship murmured. They had all heard that name.
Gazi met Cerias eyes, and the [Cryomancer] hid behind Yvlon. Pisces stared at Gazi, and they recalled when last they had metSilver-ranks, children watching a Named Adventurer fight all of Liscor and win.
Until Erin poked her in the eye. Ceria had grown since then. She had leveled upwhat, over ten times! She looked up, trying to straighten her back, and met the King of Destructions gaze.
Tree rot. Im going to faint.
Flos, the King of Destruction, looked delighted at the reaction. He reached out and slapped Yvlon on the shoulder so hard she nearly fell downand winced as it damaged his hands.
A Gold-rank team from Izril! I have seen your exploits, Horns of Hammerad. I am Flos Reimarch, whom you may know!
He threw his head back and laughed. Then he went nearly cross eyed as Ksmvr stuck out a hand.
Hello, Your Majesty. I believe I have heard of you. I am Ksmvr, formerly of the Free Antinium of Liscor. Now proud member of the Horns of Hammerad. Empress Nsiia does not speak fondly of you.
Flos did a double-take as Gazi regarded Ksmvr with clear confusion.
Is this Klbkch the Slayer? NoKsmvKsmvr? Of Chandrar! Aha! The one who knows the Loquea Dree and helped free Sottheim? And Nsiia? You, my friend, I owe a boon to!
Then Flos grabbed Ksmvr and lifted him up in a hug. Yvlons mouth was open so wide one of the flying fish crashing across the deck hit her square in the mouth.
What the?
Pisces ducked another object as Yvlon stumbled. Flos whirled, and the [Captain] bellowed.
Dead gods damn itweve hit a shoal! Foods flying!
In that case, you will not mind if I confirm with Manus that a Wall Lady Rafaema is justified in using their military codes? Military codes that I would expect to get if the Antinium were about to slaughter us all, we were about to suffer a Human attack, or the dungeon were going to explode under my feet?
Rafaema hesitated, and Zevara gave her a narrow look. She knew. She didnt know what she knew, but Zevara had just called Rafaemas bluff.
You do not need to inform Manus
Do not, for top-level clearance, or should not? If this is truly a secret operation, I will bear the full weight of the responsibility on my shoulders. But I am not sure this is. Why did Pallass not answer Manus request? They have countless high-level forces. Why are you asking me for forces without disclosing any danger that would require forty [Soldiers]? Where are they going?
Classified!
Then you can expect my reinforcements when you dig them up and grab a [Necromancer]. Hire some adventurers, Wall Lady. We even have a Named-rank one and a Gold-rank team in the city. But Liscors Watch will not muster without an explanation or official confirmation!
Zevara sat back down, and Rafaema trembled withindignation? Fury? Shock?
She was a Wall Lady of Manus! She was on the Security Council! She was a Dragon!
But she didnt see what Zevara saw. Moreovershe had not known that the Watch Captain had been dealing with every superior from General Shivertail, to Wall Lord Ilvriss, to Chaldion, to an annoying Human this last year.
Rafaema turned the intensity of her glare up, and the air ionized around her. Zevara kicked her out of her office. Then she went back to staring at the inn out of her office window. She suspected that this Wall Lady was not here on Manus say-so and that she could inform the City of War and they would be very interested to know she was here. But Rafaema might well just go away, and Zevara had enough headaches.
She was right and wrong, and Rafaema stormed out of the Watch House, defeated by the Watch Captain of Liscor. Finefine! If she couldnt get a force of Drakes, shed go herself. It was the High Passes, but she was a Dragon.
Zevara paid no notice of Rafaema, other than noting shed left the city in case Manus wanted to know later. She was waiting. They all were. But was it really going to?
Not even the gods knew. The gods were deadbut they didnt know. Yet they had information all but Fetohep lacked.
Erin Solstice was a ghost that was neither fully dead nor alive. She had a body. One of them had tried to reach it before, during that pivotal moment of the Summer Solstice.
Norechl had sensed a vessel, but it had failed to capture it, and the [Garden of Sanctuary] kept the others from entering, even Kasigna.
That was a frustration. Howevera few salient facts changed things.
The first of which was that the living had worked so hard to come up with a way to make that frozen flesh live. To create a spark such that Erin Solstice could return to life.
To do thatthey were going to have to take her out of the [Garden of Sanctuary]. An empty vessel.
The [Emperor] of Riverfarm had thought long and hard about stories. Whatcertain people might do with a body. That was why he had tried not to pay attention. That was why he had hidden it.
The God of Rulers, the bearded man, Tamaroth, learned of the ritual. He stood and thought a while. He was no Emerrhain, to chart every move precisely and analyze the magic and lay plans. Neither was he a purely instinctual creature like Norechl, who took risks and did things even other gods had called mad.
A body. He had an agent, a connection, but a body was so much more than that. Like the ghostslike the othershis power was limited by death. Even Kasigna, here, was a starving, rotting corpse.
A body solved countless issues. A body was strength. A body was levels and warmth and
A female Human was not ideal, yet Tamaroth didnt care. He was himself. He could change anything else. He turned and strode for Liscor. Following the path of the Goblins, hurrying to overtake them, but he was far, far north, prowling around Terandrias shores, watching Norechls kin rising.
Yet Tamaroth was confident. Erin Solstices ghost was too far south, on Chandrar. Izril was practically deserted; the ghosts had all fled, and this was his land, through his mortal agent. A few ghosts appeared, dying naturally, but they either fled, were consumed, or hid; scraps were all that remained. The land of the dead was empty.
Who, then, could stop him? The God of Rulers walked quickly, but confidently. Until he realizedsomeone else was headed for Liscor. Tamaroth turned and saw her.
You.
She walked with a spring in her step, like a young soldier returning home from every war. Auburn hair blew around her, and even long decayed, she was the youngest of all. The youngest god, the wild hunter. The rebel who took upon lost causes.
She had fought him, fought her parents and their pantheon, taken every side. An unpredictable force. A peerbut a reckless one.
Her eyes glimmered like the roots of fate, shining the brightest oak brown, scored with green at the edges, like the very trees themselves. She was a warrior among the six, a true one. They had all fought and knew mighty battles, but that was her aspect, and even the God of Rulers could not match her on the most equal of grounds.
Cauwine, the God of Glorious Souls, was headed across Izril. His ground. Tamaroth snarled at her.
Begone, Cauwine! This is my land!
Then challenge me, oh God of Us All.
Cauwine spoke lightly, throwing back her head as she strode forwards. NowTamaroth was hurrying, but they were trapped in Kasingas domain, unable to move faster after a certain point. And shewas ahead of him.
Slightly. Ever-so-slightly, and the way they travelled was such that the two would meet and come to blows. Tamaroth had the advantage here. But more than thathe had claimed this place. Kasigna might dare intrude a while, but the others were used to the wars over domain and stayed back.
Yet shechallenged him. It would be a battle she would lose if they fought to the end; the foothold he had here was a triumph. Cauwine, though
You hold to names and titles and meaning so far lost that the people of this world have not even myths for them. Tamaroth. We are all dead. This is an age of change. Will you return to flesh and life and be the same? You are twice more a fool, then.
You speak loudly for one who fought on either side.
Cauwine just laughed derisively in his face.
I regret only my death. You, who argued and pontificated long about the rightness of your causeyou who claim everything by right of divinity. Stop me, then.
The God of Leaders seized Cauwines arm. The Goddess of the Hunt turned. Neither stopped moving, but they began to fight.
Fight as gods did. Only a few would have been able to see even a fraction of it. Ryoka Griffin might have seen it and understood why she could never hurt them with her Faeblade. Like the faethey were larger than the mere man and woman who walked the deadlands. The ghosts had almost no substance to do more than outrage or hurt them temporarily.
The two struggling figures slowed as they crossed over Izril like a blaze of fire, each step carrying them countless miles. Time was different here, and so their struggle justwas. Two gods.
Thenthree.
Laedonius Deviy came waltzing out of the sea and glided towards Liscor as the other two looked up. He had heard of the ritual as well. Tamaroth, by his very hurry, had given himself away. Cauwine and Tamaroth hesitatedthen they abandoned their struggle to catch up.
Laedonius Deviy! Cauwine! My wrath shall know no end!
Tamaroth warned them, but the Dancing Man just stepped around mountains, through stone, hurrying, reaching out. Cauwine knocked Tamaroth aside, her very nature warring with him, and the three dead gods descended on a valley betwixt the High Passes.
A single inn where a body lay.
Waiting. Tamaroth howled with outrage as he and Cauwine threw the God of Dance back, and Laedonius Deviy retreated, cursing in frustration. Then there were only two. A body.
And what happened next
The morning of the day Fetohep received that terrible warning from Selys, the day before he left Khelt, the city of Liscor was quiet. A Lightning Dragon argued with a Watch Captain and lost. She headed north via the magic door to Celum, alone, making for the High Passes. No one noticed. They were watching the skies.
The Wyverns broke through clouds and flew down towards Liscor. A Goblin flew towards an inn as the [Guards] on the wall spotted the Wyverns and sounded the alarm.
The Watch Captain overruled it and issued a warning and advisory to Liscors citizens so they wouldnt panic.
A group of Drakes from Salazsar marched to the inn. A group of Earthers gathered there, where Antinium sat and waited.
A single Gnoll [Head Server] changed the sign to show the inn was open and did a bit of sweeping in the kitchen. His paws were trembling.
That rumor ran through the city as a few people walked towards the inn.
Hey. Have you heard? She might be coming back today.
Who?
Her. The [Innkeeper]. That crazy Humanher.
No one laughed. They just looked up and pretended to go about their day. In the corner of their eyes, in the back of their headsthey were waiting.
Waiting and hoping. Perhaps even praying for one little miracle.
Monsters and good folk, and just average people. Andsome people who had been waiting a long time for this news. Months and months.
They looked up from where they sat and heard the call. Ohit was time? Well then. One nudged the other as they sat at an outdoor caf because they had standards and it was morningnot bar time.
Some went to their rooms for their gear, but most were ready. A group of people gathered.
Its today?
Yep. Ready up.
Who they were wasnt exactly important right now. They belonged to anorganization. They armed themselves quietly. They checked wands in their holsters and lifted backup weapons as they assembled.
Crossbows. They had been waiting for this day as well. You seemore than just Erins friends were headed to the inn.
Those Goblins on Wyverns. There was no mistaking them. So a group headed to Liscor, and more went to intercept them. Crossbows carried in secret on the streets of Liscor. An armed group of elites. An old story.
An adventurer was headed for the inn, eyes locked on the sky. He was a huge, operatic man. Literallyhis voice had the magnitude to shake a city to pieces contained in a single ribcage. He was followed by his Gold-rank team. But they halted as a group armed with crossbows sauntered into the street.
Crowdcaller Merdon. Im afraid Ill have to ask you to stop here. Remember me? Weve met a few times.
A man holding a crossbow, a killers weapon, a very efficient tool, lifted it and aimed it at the Named Adventurers feet. Crowdcaller Merdon, who had been sitting in Liscor and Invrisil, waiting for news of Goblins, came to a halt. His team put their hands on their weapons and saw a dozen men and women standing there.
Holding those deadly weapons. A wand in the other hand. Merdon looked across the street, confusedthen his eyes narrowed.
Captain Todi. Get out of the way.
Captain Todi of Todis Elites stood in the street. He put a pinkie into one ear and swiveled it around; the wax hed put there was itching. But his Gold-rank team didnt move.
Indeedthey had been waiting a long time. Todi smiled at Merdon. The proper, shit-eating grin of a man who knew he was holding all the cards and going to make someone elses day worse.
Cant do that, Merdon. Weve been hired to make sure those Goblins get to their destination.
He nodded around, and the men and women with crossbows and wands sighed. It had been a long time. But they had been waiting, doing odd jobs for their employer, and Selys Shivertail knew how to employ Todi.
She knewLiscor. And she had been waiting for this day. Certain that something would occur. Todi had been preparing too, and Merdon was on the top of his action-list.
Someones hired you toget out of the way! The Healer of Tenbault is being held captive by those Goblins!
Todi lit up one of Palts puffers and blew a plume of smoke. He frowned; hed wanted a smoke ring for effect, but he wasnt good enough. He shrugged.
And youll get her. Just not right now. Did you hear shes supposed to save someones life? Proper [Healer] business, that. What comes after is up for negotiation. But if I were you, Id save your revenge for another day. My employers assured me that the Healer of Tenbault will be returned safely once this is over.
Merdon was shaking with anger. He looked at Todi, and his voice deepened ominously.
You think you can stop me, Todi? You and your artifact-team? What happens if I ignore your advice?
Todi sighed. Dead gods damn it. He tossed the puffer down and stomped on it. Then he lifted a wand in one hand and aimed the crossbow at Merdons gut.
Then we throw down, Merdon. If it gets nasty? WellI bet you can shout a [Fireball] out of existence, but my team and I all have Wands of [Fireball]. Dont.
It was about then that one of the Gold-rank adventurers nudged Merdon.
Bosstheyve got an angle on us.
Merdon looked up, and if the crossbows had laser sights, he would have noticed now that not all were on his front. A figure was sitting on a roof, crossbow aimed down at Merdon. The Named Adventurers veins bulged, and one actually burst as Todi watched.
Ah, shit. Hes losing his temper. Get ready.
He muttered out of the corner of his mouth as a red stain spread over Merdons purpling face. He wished the man werent so clever; Merdon was a bit of a bull, but he was clever enough to realize that Invrisil was a good point to jump to various locations to find those Goblins thanks to the magic door. Once he heard about a certain Goblin tribe and an inn and a dead [Innkeeper]
Well, he would never reach that inn. He might blow out every unenchanted window in Liscor, but the Watch wouldnt take that, and Todi had promised Selys Shivertail. His finger tightened on the crossbows trigger.
Merdon. I dont feel like getting a name for team-killing today. Back off.
Too many people had waited too long for this moment. The Named Adventurer would never make it to that inn. Todi waited as Merdon opened his mouth and braced himself. But Merdon never spoke a word.
He hesitatedand looked down at a reflection of his chin. He needed to shave, and he had a wart or something on the side of his neck. He could tell because a silver mirror was placed very handily there, showing him the underside of his jaw and that if the person holding that sword sneezed, Merdons throat would have a second exit.
His team recoiled; they hadnt even seen the warrior sneaking up. But he was there, so fast that even the Named Adventurer had been caught off-guard. The voice that emanated from the insects mandibles was polite, preciseand intense.
I would like you to note, Senior Guardsman Relc, that I am not part of the City Watch.
Really, Klb, old buddy? I thought you were.
Klbkch shook his head as he held one of his swords at Merdons neck. The man inhaled, and blood ran from his neck as Klbkch pressed the sword a bit closer to his throat. With his other finger, he wagged it at the Drake, admonishing him.
Incorrect. I resigned my commission for an extended leave of absence. Therefore, I am a citizen knowingly committing an illicit act in the City of Liscor. Feel free to arrest me, Guardsman Relc. Although, I would request you take in this Named Adventurer as well as a matter of public interest.
Senior Guardsman Relc and Klbkch stood in the street as Relc leaned on his spear. The adventurers were transfixed; Todi was grinning widely, watching Klbkch. Relc checked the sky, squinted at the sun, and shrugged.
Im off-duty, Klb, buddy. What do you take me for? Im Relc. This seems like a matter for the next guard-patrol to sort out.
Indeed. Then my felonious actions will go unchecked a while longer. I will register a formal complaint later.
They were bantering. Merdons jaw worked.
Youdont you dare stop me. The north will
Do what, Adventurer Merdon? No, do not answer that question. I am aware of the issue. The Healer of Tenbault will be returned. But you will not go near that inn.
I will not
Merdon tried to move, but the sword cut deeper into his neck, and Relc winced. Klbkchs voice was suddenly very, very serious.
Move or speak and I will rid Izril of a Named Adventurer. I am Klbkch the Slayer of the Antinium. Do you think I will hesitate?
A stream of red dripped from Merdons neck onto that silver mirror. The Named Adventurer did not bleed like that. Merdon was not supposed to bleed like that. He was a Named Adventurer. He had answered everything from Wyverns to armies with his voice! He opened his mouth andfroze as he looked at his opponent.
Klbkch the Slayer stood there, the quiet legend of Liscor. The genuine article, returned. He looked across Merdons team and smiled. The Centenium saw nothing but corpses. That insects head turned, and two blank bug eyes looked at Merdon, tilting left and right.
Merdon Crowcaller said nothing. He held very still, eyes wide. Relc lifted his claws as Merdon looked at him.
I think youd better listen to what he says. Hes crazy. He even attacked me. Klbare you going to stand here all day?
No. Just a while longer until I am arrested. You will have to go without me, Relc. I will follow you shortly.
Relc looked at Klbkch, and the Slayer gazed back at him. Klbkchs mandibles moved.
When she wakes up, I will see her. I am a bit ashamed. Go.
Relc nodded. The Drake Guardsman stood straighter and eyed Todi.
You got this?
With theyes. Definitely.
The Gold-rank Captain jumped and nodded. So Relc walked on. He lifted a hand, and Klbkch nodded to him.
It was Relc who walked across Liscor. Senior Guardsman Relc. Watch Sergeant Relc. The Gecko of Liscor, Relc the
Just Relc.
He felt a bit bad about leaving Klbkch there. But they had flipped a coin, and Relc had won. So the Antinium stood there.
Klbkch looked so different from the friend that Relc had known. A tall, slim, intense Antinium who was the blade expert that had won great victories for the Antinium.
He had changed quite a bit. But thenso had Relc. The Drake felt different.
He was a [Watch Sergeant]. On the street, he spotted some Gnolls, who waved to him.
Guardsman Relc! Guardsman Relc! I got a job!
Hey, great! Ill talk to you later, alright, Vok?
He nodded at the Gnoll with the spear and sauntered on, carrying his enchanted spear across his shoulders.
Something was happening in Liscor. Something familiar but which hed never seen before at the same time. People were slowly drifting across the city. They pretended not to, but Workers looked up from carrying their burdens. A [Cleaner] swept out the front of a shop then hurried down the street, broom in hand, his silver antennae twitching.
Drakes, Gnolls, and even Humans were looking towards the eastern wall. A few were telling stories. Some
Mom? Can I have pizza tonight?
Well see, dear.
A little Drake girl tugged at her mothers claw, and Visma waved at Relc as he passed. Yet he didnt slow, and they didnt go to that inn.
Relc had won the coin toss. Which meant hed sort of lost. He walked out of the gates and up towards that inn, staring at Birds empty tower. Watching as Antinium filed into it.
The Wyverns had landed. A green-skinned figure stared at the walls of Liscor and waved at the [Guards] before disappearing inside. Yellow Splatters had to discipline one of the Watch, an Antinium, for waving back to a monster.
They were all there. But so few walked up that hill. It was aboutthe right. The right to be there, to see it fail or succeed.
Relc Grasstongue stopped at the door and hesitated a long moment before he knocked. Then he laughed.
Wait. No ones gonna
Someone pulled the door open, and Relc leapt backwards. But he recognized the Gnoll.
Uh
Inns open. My brothers inside. Read the signoh, hi, Senior Guardsman.
Liska nodded at Relc, and Ishkrs younger sister stood back. Relc walked into The Wandering Inn, down that long hallway that made his spines tingle. But when he heard thathe stopped and walked back outside.
There it was. A bit worn, but someone had refreshed the paint. Relc stared at the sign for a second and reminded himself of that. He closed his eyesthen nodded.
No Killing Goblins.
Into the inn, like a dreamer. Relc opened the doors, and people turned.
Drakes from Salazsar, staring at the Goblin in pure horror. Earthers, a Centaur smoking fit to burst as he trotted around a nigh-hysterical woman.
Im the Healer of Tenbault! Ive been kidnapped
Yes, yes. Tragedy. Are you sure youre good to go on those ice spells? Need any backup?
Palt inspected the runes being laid out on the floor. Relc even noticed a spider crawling by the window, but he decided it could wait.
Hey. Im here. Is
The Goblins turned, and one recoiled as she saw Relc. He looked past the sea of Antinium and then at a little Goblin he vaguely recognized.
Rags and Relc locked gazes for a moment, then Rags tore her head away as a warrior with a scar over his face and two magic swords sat up slightly.
Chieftain?
No. Almost ready.
Rags curtly spoke to the room, and Relc looked at her a long while before he heard a voice.
And that is Relc. He was the first. Or second. The first to meet her, in the days when she first came to Liscor.
Ooh.
Aah.
Antinium were sitting around as an [Acolyte] pointed at Relc. Not Pawn, but he carried a censer. The Antinium gazed at Relc in awe.
He and Klbkchhezeim were there. Now he is here again. Let us pray.
Relc opened and closed his mouth, but a Gnoll bustled up to him.
Drink? Food?
Me? Uhno, Ishkr. Not right now.
The Gnoll nodded. Relc saw to his surprise that some people did have food. Kevin and Joseph were sitting together, chatting and watching everything. They could eat?
Nothe food was purely ornamental. No one had so much as touched a morsel, even the Antinium. Relc could have used a drink. Hesaw another door open.
Then there was sunlight. The mornings air blew in with the scents of plants as Relc looked into the [Garden of Sanctuary].
He saw everyones heads turn, and they all went silent as someone walked into the room.
We are almost ready. Who will help carry her into the inn? It must be in the inn?
Pawn looked around, and Rags nodded.
For magic. Right?
The Healer of Tenbault stuttered as she stared at an Antinium and nearly collapsed, but Strategist Kiish just nodded, fiddling with her glasses.
Excuse me. Should we have a scrying spell? I am sure others would want to watch.
No. No outside magics.
Palt objected instantly. Kiish nodded at once.
Of course. Afterwards. Do we need to wait on anyone?
The others susurrated.
Wheres Pelt? Hedault, wheres?
I sent him an exact schedule. It appears he is not here, Kevin.
Neithers Olesm. Relcdid you see Captain Todi? Did he?
He and Klbkch are bullying a Named-rank adventurer. Dont worry, Selys.
The [Heiress] sat down as Relc saw Pawn glance at him. Belgrade was behind Pawn, and the [Priest] looked about.
Should we then begin, or is there anything we are waiting for?
No one had a reply. After a second, Palt coughed.
Thethe bier. How are you going to move it?
We shall lift it. Though some magic to stabilize it may be acceptable? Who will carry her?
Relcs claw twitched, but then he kept it low. He watched as people stood. Pawn gazed about, and he and Belgrade were two of the six.
Pawn, Palt, Ishkr, Belgrade, Selys, and Rags herself walked into the [Garden of Sanctuary] slowly. Relc stood there.
Relc? Do you want to?
Drassi had arrived, panting after running from Liscor. So was Silveran. No Grimalkinno Chaldion. No Saliss or Lyonette orMrsha.
No Horns.
No Ryoka.
Relc tried not to count. He leaned against one wall, baring his teeth in what he hoped looked like a smile.
Im great, Drassi. What? Me? NoId just trip or do something stupid. Imis it happening now?
No one answered that question. Relc stood there as Drassi walked forwards, and the first thing she did was address the Goblins.
H-hello. Dont I know you?
Calescent and Redscar turned, and the Goblins blinked at Drassi. Then Calescent grinned, and she smiled back.
Do you want anything to drink?
Relc listened, and it all sounded faraway. He was panting, he realized. The Gecko of Liscor looked up, and then the door to the [Garden of Sanctuary] opened into the common room again. Before he was readyhe saw frost, mist rising. And
Relc stood in the connecting hallway, panting, listening to the voices from the common room.
right there. Are you ready, Healer?
I think so. W-w-we just follow the instructions. Who has the?
I will pray as well, if it is acceptable.
Pray?
The Drakes claws trembled on the door to the common room. He cracked it back open and saw everyone gathered around a space in the center of the inn. Someone had drawn glowing runes on the floor, bright magic, and he felt the springtime in the air as the Potion of Regeneration was opened.
Ishkr had the antidote in his paws, and Strategist Kiish stood in the center as Palt ashed his cigar and stepped forwards. Even the damn spider looked like it was watching.
They were all here. People who deserved to be. Relc saw the ones who werent.
Fortress Beavers were clustered next to watching Antinium. Lism wasnt here. Not Krshia or Mrsha or
Stop it. Go in there.
Relc opened the door further and saw a figure, lying on a frozen piece of stone, hands folded over her chest. The broken pieces of wood still embedded in her skin, ice beginning to thaw, red staining the fabric of her apron
The Drake stumbled away. Relc thrust open a different door and walked into a brighter room. He shaded his eyes and realizedhe was in the [Garden of Sanctuary].
He stood there, trembling, and the door closed behind him. Relc stood there and thought of Ryoka Griffin. She would be there, with Lyonette holding Mrsha. Moore and Jelaqua and SebornCeria would be doing the spells and
It was all wrong. He fought with something, something he was afraid to say. Until someone spoke his name.
Guardsman Relc?
Relc jumped and saw who had come in after him. Noticed his absence. He saw an Antinium.
Pawn? No. Belgrade.
The [Strategist] nodded. He had returned from the Hectval front for today. But Olesm wasnt here. The Antinium looked at Relc curiously, then back at the door. Someone was beginning to chant behind him.
Will you not be there to watch, Guardsman Relc? Olesm did not come. Nor did Calruzalthough, he was not welcome within Liscor. But surely you will be there.
Relc was panting. He put a claw over his chest. He looked at Belgrade, and the words finally burst out of his chest. The words surely Olesm and Palt and all the others had swallowed. They came out now, in the final minutes.
I cant. Its not gonna work, Belgrade.
The [Strategist] froze.
It surely will, Guardsman Relc. Every component has been acquired, and everything is in place. It will work. It will
He was trembling. Relc saw the Antinium look backwards and then at him accusatorily.
You must not say such things. Why are you saying such lies?
Relc almost laughed. He wished hed actually won that coin toss. He tried to explain, in a shaking voice. He still could not look behind him. Instead, Relc gazed at the domed ceiling letting in light. The hill with the mist.
I dont know how toIll try. Belgrade. I want it to work. If I thought saying it would workId say it until my tongue fell out of my head and keep doing it. Erins gone. I know it. You know it.
But she is not dead
Relc was shaking his head.
Ive seen too many good people die. When I heard about Erin
The Drake closed his eyes and gulped.
I believed there was a cure the instant my kid wrote to me about it. I believed it, and that was what got me through Cellidel. Asking what Erin would say when I came back and told her. I believed when I got that strange [Message] thing and Selys showed me everything. I believed when I heard that Goblin was coming. Now? Now I remember.
His eyes were watering. The Gecko wiped at them, and a young Drake stood on a battlefield, in a [Healer]s tent. In a hundred places, in a hundred times. He spoke to Belgrade.
Ive always believed they were gonna make it. Every buddy whose claw I held. Every time I poured a potion, I thoughttheyre just a bit cold. Theyll pull through. Theyre too tough to
He trailed off. The Antinium saw what he saw. He had already known what Relc was talking about. He was a [Soldier], and he had been there at the start. Relc closed his eyes.
Theres always a chance. Right until I wake up and realize that was twenty years ago. And Im still waiting for them to open their eyes.
Oh. Is that why they have not come? They are afraid.
Belgrade looked past Relc, and the Drake nodded. Klbkch, Pelt, the others
When she wakes, I will see her. He ran a claw down his neck spines. Maybemaybehe heard someone speaking behind him, making sure everyone knew their places. Relc took a breath
If she wakes up, I almost wont be surprised. If she wakes up
He couldnt finish it. He couldnt be there. Not to see that. He would rather face a hundred thousand Skinners, Crelers, and see every horror on the battlefield than see it fail. Belgrade understood.
That was the difference between the two. The Antinium believed. He hoped. Relc hung his head, ashamed.
Tell me when its over. Please.
The [Strategist] looked at him a long time, then slowly nodded.
I will be the first to do so.
He walked back towards the door, and Relc heard the first words of magic. Belgrade peered into the innthen back at Relc.
No. I will be the second.
That alone almost made Relc go back. Almostbut he couldnt. He knew the ending of this tale, so he walked deeper into the garden. Hiding from despair.
The Drake walked up the hill, wondering how long it would take. Counting seconds into minutes, losing trackhe walked past the Sages Grass cultivated in neat rows. Saw the Faerie Flowers had bloomed well.
Relc reached down and picked one up. He stared at the precious, little flower and wondered if this could bring the dead back.
No. There were some things that didnt happen.
But maybe
He had seen miracles. The Drake walked higher, wrestling with the very concepts taking place behind him. He walked up into that misty hill, past statues, and then stopped when he realized he was where she had been.
The body was gone. Relc exhaledbut then he saw the magic circle, still keeping the piled gifts and objects hidden. Tributes to the Innkeeper of Liscor.
One stood out to him, one of the first that had been placed with the other mourners so long ago. Relc had not been here. He imaginedhow it must have been. Hundreds, maybe thousands of people filing up and down the hill. Relc bent down, seeing one of the things someone had put there to keep Erin company.
It was a doll, covered in ice.
It was stitched to look like a cute little Gnoll, with a mane of fur on the edges since fur everywhere just made it look like a hairball. Very artistically done, albeit all in brown. Cheap? Maybe, but hand-crafted by a good [Sewer] who cared enough to make it last. Worn down and restitched in the arm where it had torntwice. With little, button-black eyes. A little Gnoll doll that Relc recognized.
Visma loved that little doll. Relc looked there, and it struck him again.
She really had died. He hadnt been here to stop it. He hadnt even known about it until a month or more afterwards. Even now
How much had they all cried? Relc tried to summon some tears, but all he heard was the nervous beating of his heart. He tried anger instead.
Why her? You bastards. Why her?
There was no reason. Relc had walked so many battlefields since being a soldier of Liscor. Before he had been the Geckohe had asked that question a thousand times.
Why her? Why him? Why like that?
There was no good answer. Relc had seen arrows miss bastards by a fraction of a hairs width and the greatest of souls die for no reason.
That was why he knew. Knew it wasnt going to work. If it didwhat did that mean about all those other times? How was it fair?
Relc knew it wouldnt be. He knew it wouldnt work. Even sohe knelt in the soft grass and rested his head on his arm as he clutched at the soil.
I know. Butplease. Just this time?
A single Drake lay there, waiting, listening with all his heart, wondering if he could sense the moment it happened. Like someone who had lain in the darkness far too long, eyes closedwaiting to sense the sun. A hundred times, Relc thought he heard somethingfelt something.
But he knew that when it happened he would feel it.
Hope, fear, despair, terror, and desperation. So many flames warring in his chest.
Maybe just this once. Maybe this time
Relc Grasstongue lay there as all of Liscor waited. Waited, disbelieving, hoping out of the corner of their eyes.
Waitingbut the answer was already written in the future. Relc raised his head when he heard a voice through that cracked door.
not working. The Skill
Keep going. Keep
They shouted her name. It was still failing. Even that Skill wasnt enough. A body was lying on the bier in ice. No spark to kindle. The voices shouted in desperation, as if sound could reach her.
Thensomething was there. A catalyst to hold onto. There was a great cry, and Relc whirled. He heard only silence. Saw the flash of light into the Garden of Sanctuary.
Nothing. Nothing but silence in his ears. Then he heard a single voice.
Erin?
Relc stoodand then heard a terrible scream. A shoutand a whirlwind of noise and violence. He stood on that hill, staring down with wide eyes.
Erin?
When the Drake tore into the common room, that was all he heard. All he saw wasdevastation.
Chairs and tables were overturned. People were collapsed against walls, knocked downhe saw Antinium lying stunned, one lying flat from where it had been kicked. He saw the body closest to the place where the ritual had taken placetrying to rise.
The smallest Goblin was lying on her back, staring up at the ceiling with a confused look in her eyes. Tears had run down her cheeks, but all that was in her gaze now was shock. Shock andhorror.
Whatwhat happened?
Relc looked around. Then he focused on the bier of stone. It was still wet with melted ice. But the body was gone.
She was back. She was back! She was
Thats not Erin. Pawn? Pawn?
A Drake was holding a Worker who had collapsed, weak with shock. Pawn was staring upwards, his mandibles open.
It had been seconds.
Where
Redscar was getting up. Blood ran down one arm. He pointed.
There.
Relc turned and saw the door to the common room was open. Even sohe looked around another second.
The common room was destroyed. Like so many times before itbut this wasnt the same. One person had done this. Workers were getting up, Soldiers staring in horror at
It wasnt her. What was that?
Selys was shouting, wild-eyed. A low moan was coming from the Antinium. Relc stood there, in the slivers of time cut out by horror. Realization. He turned.
Relc! Dont
He went after her. Selys heaved herself up, then looked around. Rags was just lying there, eyes staring at the ceiling and that moment of hope. Everythingeverything
We tried the ritual. Something went wrong. Its not her. Relc went after her.
Relc knew something was terribly wrong. Did Liscor feel it? He could not hear Tamaroths howl of rage. He only knew what he saw.
And what he saw as he tore out of the innwas the path she left. So fast.
He was the Gecko of Liscor. Even slow with shock, even when he took in time to seeErin Solstice would never have been able to move that fast.
She was already in Liscor. He saw the eastern gates open; there was a commotion around it. Relc ran.
The Drake flashed down the hill, running over grass, shouting. His spearhed left it behind. The Drake didnt care. He had no armor, no spearhe just ran.
He had to see.
The gates were open when Relc got there. The [Guards] were staring down, charging down the steps afterone saw Relc skid to a halt.
Relc! Was that?
Which way?
A Gnoll was babbling.
That looked like herbut Ive never seen her move likeit felt different, and she
Relc shook him.
Which way did she go?
Teleport Plaza!
The Drake recognized the name. The largest space, Shivertails Plaza, repurposed for the door. Wherehis head snapped up.
The door. He charged after her, following the voices in the street, runningrunningtrying to catch a glimpse.
He was too late. He saw somethingsomeone familiar vanishing into a door, the stunned attendants and people lined up all shouting, pointing. Relc saw a glowing yellow stone and realized where she was going.
Pallass.
Where might someone go? If you thought long and hard about it, and you knew
Where might you go? Invrisil, perhaps. Or Pallass. Important places with valuable things.
Not just artifacts. Centers of power for information, gear. Even vehicles. Like Pegasi.
There was just one complication in Pallass over Invrisil. Even the checkpoint guard had heard today was important.
They were not ready for this. What they sawwhat they looked at seemed to be a Human woman. Some even recognized her. The Drakes looked up.
You
Let me in, please. Im in a hurry.
It even sounded like her. Her face. Her voice. The Drakes looked at each other. A Gnoll reached for the switch uncertainly, and a claw captured his arm.
Sergeant Kel of Pallass looked up.
You need to go through?
Yes.
He locked eyes withErin Solstice, and the Drakes claw trembled. His eyes were stinging. She waited, blinking at him innocently. The Drake saw the rest of his checkpoint looking at him. One of the [Guards] whispered.
Sergeant Kel? Whats wrong?
Slowly, deliberately, Kel, the Drake who had suffered so much at the hands of this damn Human, who hadheard she passed away, reached for something at his side. He triggered the stone and spoke calmly.
Thats not her. She never says please when shes in a hurry. And she knows my name. Thats not her. Sound the alarm. Sound the
Relc took thirty seconds to try to explain as the panicked door attendants got in his way, then forced his way through. He found the checkpoint gates open and the guards collapsed.
Sheshewe couldnt stop her.
An alarm was ringing through Pallass. Sergeant Kel was lying on the ground. Hed tried to block her. He looked up, dazed, head bloody.
Who is that?
Relc had no answer. He ran into the street as citizens of Pallass ran indoors, looking around, looking up. The entire 8th floor was on high-alert. Relc ran as the alarm spread.
Nothing was stopping her. She was moving so fasthe found a patrol of Pallass own slumped to the ground. Not even hurtone had been knocked aside, a Dullahan, but the rest had just collapsed.
Where was she going? Where was
Then he saw her. Relc came to a stop and saw a Human girl with brown hair, an apron even flapping behind her and stained with blood and six holes in the front. Casual clothes.
An [Innkeeper], maybe plain at first, until you looked at her and saw what she did. A young woman with a quick smile and a laugh that was infectious. Someone who could stand in a common room or at the head of an army and belong.
Erin Solstice. But that wasnt her.
She was running, running so fast that Relc was barely faster than her, vaulting a staircase, leaping with the grace of a trained warrior.
Heading for the Grand Staircase. There was a wild smile on her face. A glow from her eyes of excitement. Relc knew it wasnt her.
That smile was all wrong. Every way she moved, the way she bared her teeth in a feral grin
He sprinted towards her. The hesitation wasnt gone. That wasnt her. The Gecko of Liscor forgot he was unarmed and unarmored.
You! Who are you?
He was screaming. The [Innkeeper] barely noticed him. An entire city was on the alert, but they were not prepared for one Human, even if they had encountered her before.
She looked around, and another group of Pallass Watch justfell, their strings cut as they ran towards her, uncertain. Relc saw it, and his eyes went wide.
Aura? Or something else? He felt that. No wonder no one had been able to even stop her. They juststopped, collapsed.
All but one. One person had been aware of this day. He had not expected this. But he had remained in Pallass because he had believed the same thing as Relc, deep down.
Nownow, Grimalkin of Pallass leapt up the stairs of the City of Inventions like a boulder hurled from a catapult, blurring towards Erin Solstice. The Sinew Magus eyes were locked on the young woman.
He reached Erin first. Cloaked in magic, the strongest mage in Pallass reached for her arm. The grinning Human turned. She saw one huge claw closing over her arm and
Dodged. Like he was moving in slow motion, Grimalkin missed her as she slid around him. He turned, but even under a [Haste] spell
He was not the fastest thing in the world. This wasnt an [Innkeeper]. It was a warrior. She did not know him, and he did not know her.
He hesitated and then threw a punch as Relc vaulted a staircase and flew down a floor, landing so hard he heard his bones creaking. When he caught sight of them againhe saw they were fighting.
The Sinew Magus had studied martial arts. He was regarded as one of the best [Mages] in the world in hand-to-hand combat.
He was losing. He threw up one arm to shield himself, and she struck him in the ribs so hard Relc swore he saw Grimalkins feet leave the ground. The body was Erins, but the force and speed
Grimalkin was holding back. He jabbed, but his concentration, his killing intentshe grabbed the arm and threw him. The [Mage] caught himself and lifted a glowing claw.
She picked up a sword. Relc lost sight of them one second. He shoved aside staring people and saw Erin running. Grimalkin was bleeding.
Eight cuts, each one so deep he had to drink a healing potion or bleed out in less than a minute. The Sinew Magus turned as Relc ran by.
Gecko! Stay back! Shell kill you! The Assembly of Crafts! Guard the Assemblyshes headed for
He was pointing at one of the largest buildings in Pallass. The Assembly of Crafts, where all the [Senators] and leaders of Pallass civilian government were. Relc saw the guards at the entrance collapsing.
But there she was. The young woman looked back once and saw the Gecko running after her. The only person who could catch her. She pointed at him, and he felt something pressing him down. Trying to sap his strength.
Relcrefused. Erin. He leapt at her as she whirled, blade in hand. That bright light behind her gaze.
One claw caught the sword-hand, the other grabbed Erin. The fastest Drake in all of Liscor saw her reactso quick. And those lips moved and he heard her voice.
So familiar. So foreign. Someone else spoke with her mouth. Relc looked into those eyes and asked for the last time.
Who are you?
Sprigaena, confronting the God of Rulers who had failed.
Tamaroth was howling in the lands of the dead as Sprigaena fell away from him. She arced downwards like a broken dream, her sword cutting across the Devourer of Times front. One cut from sky to land, trying to divide the world in half.
Even the greatest skill with the blade wasnt enough. Not to kill something on the threshold of godhood. The Devourer of Time reached out for Sprigaena as the Last Elf looked up at one fate.
Tamaroth. Reaching down for her. Then at the horror reaching for her through time itself. She tried to move and lifted her blade for one final cut.
A second blade cut across the horizon. A second slash, horizontally, drawing the blood of the Timewalker. A Skill without a Skill.
Grace, given to someone who had learned the art of the sword as well as every other weapon from the moment she had been conceived.
Sprigaena blinked upwards as someone leapt downwards and landed. As a hand reached for her, the God of Rulers recoiled. The Last Traitor looked up in confusion. She backed away.
Twice now. Twice! Cauwine!
The Goddess of Last Stands, the warrior among the six, stood there, drenched in the blood of Norechls kin. Her eyes were sparkling with excitement.
Tamaroth and Cauwine. Sprigaena was confused. She had been told one or the otherLaedonius Deviy, pursuing the ghosts of Drath, looked up suddenly.
Impossible. Thenwho is in her body?
We tried the ritual. Something went wrong. Its not her. Relc went after her.
Relc stared down into hazel eyes and that maddening grin. The force wearing Erins body, the thiefhad such a terrible smile. Not fitting to the [Innkeeper]. Wide and full of teeth.
And that voicehis claws trembled as he tried to hold her, but she was so strong. The person in Erin spoke.
My. Arent you a generous cup of amentus juice?
Relc blinked. Then he felt a foot underneath him. The young woman kicked him into the air.
The Drake landed, cursing, and saw a sword aimed at his chest. The being standing there tilted her head, that smile never fading. She looked Relc up and down as he froze.
Could he kill her? But his mind was locked on thatsaying. And that smile. Then Erin snapped at him.
Ugly as the underside of a boot and twice as tough. Whats a Drake like you doing in the Watch instead of the army?
Huh?
The sword jabbed as Erin stepped in, and Relc recoiled. The figure backed up, and more [Soldiers] and [Guards] were arriving.
They had to know they were dead. Grimalkin had nearly been killed, but the warrior had turned her blade before the last strike. Relc saw a Drake with a bow aimingthe figure whirled.
No! Get out
Before he could shout or jump forwards, the sword had slashed the bow apart. The other [Guards] collapsed, one clutching at a cut across the wrist. Erin held her sword casually.
Get lost. You dont want to die, do you?
She addressed the Pallasians. A Drake reaching for her sword hilt gasped as Relc scooped up a spear. Erin stomped the blade and claws flat, but the Drake just hissed up at her.
Drakes dont run. Do your worst.
The young womans eyes narrowed. Then she threw back her head and laughed. She laughed contemptuously and kicked the sword hilt away. She turned her head, and a spear was aimed at her back.
Dont move.
The [Innkeeper] shifted her grip, and Relc felt his [Dangersense] chiming in the back of his head. He felt the pressure.
She knew how to use that sword as well as his spear. But the young womanthe person inside Erins body just kept chuckling. She shook her head. Then, unexpectedly, she spat.
Every eye saw the glob of spit hit the paving stones of the City of Invention. Erin wiped at her mouth with the other hand.
Drakes dont run? What a stupid thing to say.
Everyone stared at her, nonplussed. Of all the things to stop herRelc was looking for an opening, but the young woman continued.
Drakes absolutely run. Its called a strategic retreat. You do it all the time when youre losingthen you ambush the bastards or regroup.
Something about the way they were speaking was making every scale on his body crawl. The cadence? The way she was pronouncing her words? Nomore than that. What had she called him? That was an expression. The angry person went on.
Drakes dont runthats the kind of thing you tell a bunch of limp-tailed cowards in other cities hiding behind their walls. Thats what you shout at a handful of shivering recruits who need to hold onto something before they go into the grinder. When we need to win a battle. To put up their spines.
She looked at him, and Relcs arms grew weaker. It was that smile. Full of teeth. Humans hated that smile. It looked like how a Drake
He went on, spitting again, standing at a kind of half-slouch, that sword he held tightly in one grip, a swordsman trained by battle. So confident. Looking around, eyes distant.
Thats what you tell children when they ask where their fathers and mothers went. You tell them they never ran, even if you lie through your teeth. Even if you never knew themor saw them die with a spear in their back. They never ran. Fine words for heroes. Stupid as Creler bait for a species.
You
Those words. Relc was an old [Soldier]. So oldhis spear was shaking, and the person noticed it. He turned. It was Erins face. But that sharp look.
Whats that? Spear trembling? Are you some kind of rookie? Hold it straight. Youd never shape up in my army like that.
His army. Then the young woman squinted at Relc.
Or not. You. Youre familiar.
Yes.
The shaking [Spearmaster] was locking eyes with someone. The [Guards] and [Soldiers] of Pallass looked up as the person in Erin Solstice frowned at Relc. Then he grinned.
You want to know me. I think you do. Dont you know my name? Or are you too young?
Relc was speechless. It could not be. It wasntbut the young woman strutted around, putting one hand on her hip as he lowered his sword, peering critically around the City of Inventions. Like he knew it. Remembered it. He nodded to Relc as he gazed at the onlookers. Kicked a blade out of a Garudas grip.
Look at them. Theyve forgotten me so quickly. And things are the same as ever and different. Pallass hasnt changed, but I dont even remember my city. Damned Antinium infesting itI thought Zel was blowing smoke out of his tailhole.
No. But then that head turned, and he looked Relc up and down, and the Drake stood straight, like a teenage boy standing beforebefore a [General] inspecting the ranks. That gaze.
You know me. And I met you, when I was alive. Come on, you must get it by now.
Every eye turned to the Gecko of Liscor, and he whispered the only name he could think of. The only one that fit. It was impossible. He didnt know howbut he saw those bright eyes light up, that waiting smile.
General Sserys.
General Sserys of Liscor threw back his head and laughed. He brushed at Erins hair as if he were reaching for his neck spines. Then he rolled her shoulders and shrugged.
Correct, rookie. Now shut up and follow me. I am a Drake on a mission. Is this your friends body? Dont worry. Im just borrowing it.
He put the flat of the blade on one shoulder, and Relc nearly dropped his spear. When everyone had forgotten him, while the three gods foughtno one expected the only Drake to push the Antinium back. The Hero of the Antinium Wars.
[Spear of the Drakes]. The [General] of Liscors army. The name that had helped to form every officer and leader in the decades since his passing. The God of Rulers and Goddess of Last Stands had expected victory as they reached for Erins body.
They had found a Drake and a headbutt.
How had it happened? What was going on? Relc ran after Erinafter General Sserys. It was him. Only a few things could explain that unnatural talent with the sword. And the Skills.
He strutted along in the chaos of the City of Inventions, and no one could stop him. It wasnt just an aurait was him.
The command. Patrols came skidding to a stop. Squads of [Soldiers] were unable to attack him. Relc could barely fight off the sheer influence; no one else could get in his way.
[Supreme General of the Cities: Shut Up And Follow My Orders]. Dead gods, but Pallass hasnt changed much in twenty years. Still stinks like alchemist shit and metal on the top floors. Whos in charge?
TheAssembly of Crafts
ErinSserysrolled her eyes. It was such a familiar look, but he had biting sarcasm and impatience in the gaze he gave Relc.
Ancestors. I meant really in charge. Whos the [General] of 1st Armyno, wait. Is that bastard still kicking around? The Cyclops? Chaldion?
Whyeah. Where are wehow is this happening?
The Drake just snorted as he gazed around and then felt at Erins nose. He pulled at it and looked disgusted.
What the hell is this? Dead gods, Im in a Human body. I feel like someones rolled me in a beef steak. A female body. Eh. Too bad shes weak as shit. At least my Skills are still working. In fact
That grin again, and it was a terrible grin. The kind of grin that a Drake might wear as he stood over his mortal enemy on a cliff and began kicking fingers off the ledge. The grin of a [Mercenary General], the toughest bastard who fought for pay and kicked everyone below the belt as a warmup to the real underhanded fighting.
I leveled up. I guess if you possess a body you count as living. Fancy that.
You levelled
Wheres Chaldions house? Hey! Directions!
Sserys grabbed a Garuda by the chin and barked in the [Soldier]s stunned face.
Chaldions house? What floor? Where? Good. Get out of my way. Whore you, kid?
The answer provoked an instant response. Relc saluted.
Sergeant Relc, 4th Company! Headhunting [Spearmaster]! Nickname: Gecko, sI mean, Senior Guardsman Relc. Watch Sergeant Relc! What is going on?
Sserys picked at his teeth with a fingernail.
Long answer? Ghost stuff. Two bastards were coming for the body, so I stepped in.
Youre dead!
Even other ghosts thought he had died. Even Erinbut Sserys just chuckled.
I dont die that easy. Ive always been good at getting out of the soup when its boiling. I ran and hid since I didnt have any way to fight back. I rallied a few ghosts, found places to hide. BesidesI had a feeling this was a good spot to wait to kick those idiots tails twice.
Who? But the [General] was striding so fast Relc had to jog to catch up. He still had the bloody sword on one shoulder. Erins bodySserys kept poking the healed holes in her chest.
Good thing I was here. I dont think that ritual was working. That Skill had all the force of a Lizardboy behind it until I stepped in. Besidesshes not here to use it.
What are you doing with her body? Thats Erins. How do you know her?
Relc put a claw on Sserys shoulder, but the [General] swatted it away.
Shut up, brat. Ill just borrow her body for a bit. Izril needs someone to slap it on the ass and give it a kick in the tail. At leastmy people do. What are they doing right now? NoI need a list of every military leader. The intelligent ones cant all be dead. All five of them? Izril needs me to tell them whats coming.
Whats coming? Relc hesitated as Sserys found Chaldions home. The guards in front of it had been reinforced by Grimalkin. Sserys just walked at them.
Haltwho are you?
Im General Sserys of Liscor. Get out of my way.
Grimalkins arm jerked as he tried to bar the door. He looked at Relc, then Erins face, lost for words. The young woman walked forwards, halted, and then kicked him just below the kneecap so hard the Sinew Magus arm jerked. She nodded at Relc.
Tell the cute idiot to stop getting in my way or Ill remove a testicle. Explain it[Spearmaster]? We could have used more of you back when I was alive. Ah, here we are.
A Gnoll [Housekeeper] and a Drake were in the doorway. The Drake aimed a wand at Erin, eyes wide, but the young Human took two steps into the house, slapped the wand across the room, and grabbed his shoulder.
You
He was treated to an ivory grin. Sserys whispered in Chaldions ear as he kicked the Gnoll out.
Hey, you scheming, one-eyed fiend. I should have known youd fight old age as bitterly as everything else. I need a word. Even you can be useful.
He pointed to Relc as the Drake stood there, lost for words. Sserys flicked a hand, and the sword he had stolen slammed into the stone of Chaldions doorway.
I need ten minutes. Get me a Pegasus and a sword.
It took forty minutes. By thenRelcs head was still spinning. Liscor and Pallass were in uproar. Even if you said itit was impossible to believe.
Nor was Sserys giving anyone a chance to sit down and process it. Like a [Bandit], he was moving and getting what he wanted by sheer momentum.
Relc didnt know what hed said to Chaldion, but the Drake almost looked dead when the [General] marched out of the house. CertainlyChaldion didnt stop Sserys from getting what he wanted.
Which was armor, a sword, and a Pegasus. And a drink.
The sight of Erin Solstice taking down an entire cup of Firebreath Whiskey with every sign of delightSserys exhaled.
Twenty fucking years. Now, all I want is fifteen minutes and the right Drake or Gnoll.
Relcs look of horror made Sserys snort.
Dont get your scales twisted up. I said want. Youre ugly enough, or that giant Sinew Magus. But the genuine articles dead.
He lost the smile and tossed the glass across Tails and Scales. Then Sserys strode out of the bar, past Rufelt and Lasica.
Dead. Im some legend, and people quote me like I was a hero. My citys infested with insects, and were making war on the Gnolls? Ive had bad dreams. Thisthis is just stupid.
Sir. Youve been dead twenty yearsI was just a raw recruit when you led the army into the Hive. What happened? Whatcan the dead return to life?
Sserys leaned on the balcony of Pallass. He looked at the faces staring up at him and spat. Someone yelped, and he nodded.
Lets get back to Liscor, Sergeant. Talk and walk. It was a stupid idea, and I was high on my own fumes. Zel told me to waitI thought we had the Antinium on the edge and we couldnt. They wiped us out. Pulled out new typesall their Prognugators went at me.
Centenium.
What?
Sserys didnt know about the Antinium. It was strangetalking to someone who knew more and less. Relc thought that was the least strange thing. He gulped.
Centenium. Those are the immortal ones. Xrn. Wyrmvr? Klbkch? They killed you?
Sserys pace slowed. He checked the sword at his belt and stared up at the sky. Out of the corner of one eye, he looked at Relc.
Yeah. Do you know howno, they probably never found the bodies.
They found yours. One strike through the heart. Was it?
Relc had always wondered about that. One blow had torn through armor and flesh and bone. Sserys hadnt even looked like hed been fighting. Hed always wondered if the greatest swordsman of the Antinium
The [Spear of the Drakes] just spat.
It was two. The Small Queen and the Deathless. I dont know what stories they tell, but it went like this. They ambushed usevery Antinium in the night. Invisible ones, exploding onesexperimental. Wings on some.
Silent and Flying Antinium. The Human passed a trembling hand over his face.
More than we thought they had. It wiped us out. I could have seen it going our way; we had a combined army of Gnolls, Drakes, even Humans. But they didnt have a chance, poor bastards. Not one chance. General Sserys was dead before they struck. He stood in his tent, and his last grand moment was him standingstill as a statueas the Small Queen held him still long enough for Wyrmvr the Deathless to run him through.
Relc came to a complete stop. Sserys looked at him bleakly. The Geckos knees buckled. He had to hold himself up with the wall. He went to sit and looked up at
Erin. But he almost saw the Drake standing there, shorter than the stories made him out to be. Wearing a sword at his side. Looking down at the hole in his chest and facing two of the oldest of the Antinium. Baring his teeth in one last, painful grimace.
Relc couldnt stand up. Sserys just opened and closed one claw. He looked at Relc and the moment faded. Erin Solstice gave Relc a wry grimace.
That was the day they learned how to use teleportation scrolls and the artifacts they looted from us.
The two Drakes looked at each other a moment, and Sserys kept walking.
I should have seen it coming. Not one damn [Mage] detected them waltzing into my tent? Maybe the Slayer got them. Either waythats how it went. And then the Tidebreaker became the last [General] standing. The poor bastard who all of Izril put their problems onto and then left to die in the north.
General Zel.
No, the other General Shivertail. Yes, him. I heard from his own lips how much help he got. Another war. Another war and a Goblin King and the Necromancer of Terandria, and we couldnt band together long enough to follow his orders. All because someone figured out
Sserys looked around and shook his head. Then they were in Liscor. He walked into a sea of faces.
Erin?
Someone whispered, but General Sserys just strode on. The people of Liscor parted before him. Relc walked after him, looking for Selys, Ragsbut they all had to be at the inn.
They thought it was a monster. Maybe it was. Sserys walked towards an Antinium Worker who stared at the glorious [Innkeeper], and he stopped as Relc barred his way.
What are you doing?
That is a citizen of Liscor and one of Erin Solstices friends.
Sserys hand was tight on the sword. He looked at Relc.
Youre one of mine.
I wasuntil I got tired of being sent on suicide missions. I am [Trusted Sergeant of the Watch], Relc Grasstongue, a [Spearmaster] of Liscor and a friend of Erin Solstice. And if you try to hurt anyone hereIll kick your ass.
That familiar mouth opened, teeth baredthen Sserys laughed again.
Someones got balls. Fine then. I dont want to linger. I just need to see something. Tell mewhat the hell happened to the army? Why did Chaldion say theyre not affiliated with Liscor anymore?
That was how Relc Grasstongue found himself telling the story of how hed left the army, joined Liscor, and become a [Guardsman] and all the rest that had happened since Sserys had died. The Drake listened, walking down the streets.
He knew where he was going. He looked at every Antinium he passed, and Erins hand was glued to the sword hilt.
Zel told me he met an Ant. I told him he was mad. He reminded me about the Humans. Theyre uglier, but not much worse. He told me a lot of things. He told me he named a Goblin Lord
The Drakes eyes opened wide. He raised his voice in outrage.
He named a Goblin Reiss. Gave him that name as if it meant nothing. As if a Goblin deserved
He spun and saw Relc had no idea what that meant. Sserys looked around. He put a hand on a wall, and the brickwork cracked. Relc took another step back.
Was Liscor trembling or was it him? Gnolls and Drakes on the streets looked at Sserys. They couldnt get close, but they looked at him. As if he was a second sun, and he was blinding, but demanding all their attention. They didnt knowbut they knew. They were trailing after him, but only Relc saw Sserys close his eyes.
When I met him, he was different. Twenty years changed Zel Shivertail. I felt younger than he was. Twenty years he was the Drake who held together the south. They abandoned him. All because he wasnt me. Because they tossed one word at him as if it wouldnt work on me.
Then its true.
Sserys looked up at Relc, and his eyes dripped.
Maybe that was why he found more in common with a Goblin Lord than any other Drake. I left him here. I left him, and the Antinium took my city
He raised his voicethen kicked a cobblestone savagely. It sailed through the window of a shop, and both of them looked up as someone cried out in dismay.
Relc caught up with Sserys as the General stopped two streets away. Sserys looked ruefully back at the shop.
I dont belong here. From what youve said, it sounds like Liscors army didnt change for the better after I died.
They were the heroes of the First Antinium War and the second
Heroes. Youre saying that again. Ever met a real [Hero]? They are depressing as hell, and our Walled Cities would love to manufacture them, if we could control them. Heroeswe were a bunch of die-hard [Mercenaries] who got to fight the fight of our lives. They gave me a class and called me a great [General], but I dont think they listened to me. Or they wouldnt say things like Drakes dont run. I died before I even got to enjoy being Izrils darling. Zel was the one who continued.
Sserys leaned on a wall. He felt at the nose again.
Now Im a ghost stuck in a Humans body. I only came back because theres things my people have to know.
What?
Sserys glanced at the sky and around with a glower for Relc.
The kind of thing I cant say without making sure were in private. I have togo. Yes. Were attacking the Gnolls? That is as stupid as anything Ive heard. But my armys there. I can feel them. I am the highest-level [General] on all of Izril. Until Erin finds meI need to correct our path. And Zel. He deserved better.
Sserys had seen the statue of the Tidebreaker. He looked around the city he walked through, just like Pallass. With disgust and betrayal. A Drake city that had not been there when the Tidebreaker met his end. A people that had taken him for granted.
Zel had only one flaw as a [General]. One thing I could do better than him. He was no good at feints. He never liked deception. He was never good at laughing loud at small little Drakes and lying to their faces while hiding the bile behind his tongue. He never could tolerate people who left their own out to dry for their ambitions and vainglory.
The young woman was cracking the very cobblestones of the street with each step. Not with forcewith that shaking emotion in the Drakes soul. Sserys spat.
If he were a Gnoll, they would have made a kingdom around him. I should have never told him what he was. We should never have met. I wish I had lived. I would have torn down the walls of every damn city and hung those idiots over a pot of Crelers. I
His voice was rising. Relc realized where they were going as Sserys stalked down the street. They made one stopand only onein Liscor. It was a small place against one of the citys walls. A neatly tended, rather private space, given Liscors limited real estate.
It was a graveyard. Only a few people could afford a space, carefully maintained to prevent any chance of undead rising. In factRelc knew the graves were exhumed and swapped with new owners after the [Gravetenders] stopped being paid or an appropriate time had passed.
But thenthat was actually regular. Only one grave would never be touched. It was a rather magnificent one, and several other occupants had been moved away from the gigantic tomb in the center of the graveyard.
Even now, it had flowers, ornamental blades, and other tributes. Especially since Zel Shivertails passing. Sserys walked on top of it, looked at the inscription, and kicked a bouquet off his grave.
Ancestors. Dont I have a statue, at least?
Theres three in Liscor. Do you want to?
It was beyond surreal. The Human woman just looked at the grave, and then down.
Sserys. Hero of Liscor. There I am. It does not feel real. One second I was in the lands of the dead, apologizing to him, arguing with that damn Silver Dragon and watching those things creep aboutthe next, skulking around, dodging the bearded bastard. Now?
He lifted his nose and sniffed.
I smell my city. Im standing over my grave, and I need to piss, and Im terrified of that. I know Im dead, but I feel alive and its wonderful. My people are being idiots, which is nothing new. I could handle all of it. Butyou told me you dug up my grave.
Uhuhyes?
Relc hid behind a tombstone, but Sserys just knelt down. He pressed one of Erins ears to the marker on the tomb.
Zels ashes are here. Half? Id take one half of him over an entire army. Either half.
He grinned at Relc, and the Drake gulped. There was an old rumor in Liscors army that even a rookie had known about the openly affectionate, foul-mouthed, and great [General] they had. They didnt really care, but it was secret to everyone else.
His family. His niece. Everyone but the people who had despised Zel Shivertail, the Tidebreaker. The two great heroes of the Antinium Wars were
Sserys bent down, kneeling on the hard stone. He whispered as he put a palm down.
There you are, my greatest friend. My soulmate. We should have fought together a hundred wars instead of just one.
Relc said nothing. He averted his eyes as Sserys lingered there a moment. Just a momentand then Sserys rose and looked around his home. He nodded to Relc and looked at the Pegasus pawing at the ground, snorting.
Thank you. Now we can go.
Where? To do what? Sserys would not explain. He only knew where his army was. He was the [Spear of the Drakes], and his Skills were fit for the greatest [General] in living memory.
Skills that burned in his eyes as he flew over his city. Sserys looked down, swearing at the new part in progress.
A Lamia built that? And weve got a damn dungeon and Antinium Hive underneath?
Uhyeah?
Relc felt sick. He clung to his Pegasus, who looked as worried as he did. He should land and tell thembut Sserys just wheeled the Pegasus around and pointed.
We have to hurry. Keep up, Gecko. I need good [Soldiers] at my back, and youll do.
Where are we going?
Sserys rolled his eyes at Relc.
Where else? Wherever the fightings thickest. Where we make a difference. There is a war, and General Sserys did not come back to hold hands. One last time
But he lingered a moment over Liscor. A young [Innkeeper] drew a sword, but it was a [General] who looked down at the city as his people looked up at him.
Drakes and Gnolls, Humans and Antinium. Sserys exhaled.
Liscor.
He looked it up and down, noting the citys cracks and imperfections. All the milling people around, the High Passes rising from either side, and the lumpy Floodplains. He grinned down at a Rock Crab and spoke. Only Relc heard his sigh as the [General] of Liscor lifted his voice. It was impossible, surely, for the Drake was so high above Liscor that it was small in the Floodplains below.
Yet Relc thought every single person in Liscor, from children to the oldest souls, were standing in the streets. Looking up at him. It was not a womans voice who spoke, but the gravelly drawl of a Drake. He looked down, and Liscor looked up.
As if his voice was echoing from every cobblestone, every corner, from the statues and the sewers, the tallest roofs and the humblest stores. Antinium gazed upwards at a Drake whose narrow gaze pierced them with distaste.
Yet his name was Liscors. This was their city. The Councilmembers stumbled out of their city hall. A [Shopkeeper] clutched at his chest, panting, looking up.
That voice. Those feet had kicked through pubs, left tabs unpaid, started fights and caused trouble. Tekshia Shivertails claws shook so badly she couldnt hold her spear. She had practiced with an idiot who got lazy.
The Gnolls of the Silverfang tribe hadnt been here when that Drake had died, but they had come to the city just like the others. Joined the army, fought and bled and earned coin and had children here.
A city so unlike the one he had left stood below the General of Liscor. And it had never changed. His eyes glimmered as he looked down at it.
We have always been that cornerstone of Izril. Forgotten and alone. These coming daysI need you to be the city we have always claimed to be. Build higher. Strengthen the walls. Join tails with Gnolls, even Humans, and Ants if you have to.
He saluted them. A Drake sitting tall, tail curled up as he looked at the only city he had ever loved. Sserys clenched one claw tight. He roared down to them, the only army he had ever needed and desired.
I have always been your son. I hope you were as proud of me as I always was of you. Go well. You are beginning to look like how I dreamed of you.
The people gazed up at him as Sserys raised one hand. Then he looked at Erins hand, at the callused palm, and felt at her face. He spoke, so quietly even Relc didnt hear him, to her.
Thank you. Let me borrow this for a bit. I promiseIll do what I can.
They were flying through the air, a long way from where Sserys wanted to be. They left only confusion in their wake.
Confusionand the words of the great [General] of Izril. They wiped at their eyes, the people below, and didnt know why they were crying. Then the City of Liscor said the farewell it had never been able to. The General of Sserys smiled as he heard the shouting below.
Liscor always was wild. That has never changed. It sounds just like I remember. Come on. Lets go.
They flew off, on one final journey. The Drake had seen his home. Nowhe went to find his army. They had strayed too far from home. He would remind them who they were.
While Fetohep rode, two Drakes flew across Izril and encountered someone else flying through the air.
One lost thread amidst the chaos. The only other person who saw Sserys was also in the air. In factMontressa du Valeross nearly fell out of the sky, screaming, when she saw Erin and Relc flying past Valeterisa.
The Archmage of Izril was headed south, but cautiously because shed heard there was a war. Her eyes went wide when she saw the young woman pointing at her, the Pegasus racing alongside the flying Archmage.
Sserys roared at Valeterisa.
Youarent you a citizen of Fissival?
He didnt seem certain, because she was Humanbut he knew. Valeterisa hesitated.
Whis that body? Yes! Hello! May I ask whats going on?
Sserys didnt bother explaining. No sooner did she shout that he then bellowed.
Then follow me! Youre conscripted!
Me?
The Archmage of Izril floundered, then she swooped after Sserys and Relc as Montressa screamed questions and Relc just screamed; he had decided he didnt like flying.
How is this possible? No, the ritual is clearly at play, but a soul possession in this era is the most fascinatingI need a sample of everything. The magical signature and aura are the most unique
Sserys slapped a hand away as she reached for Erins hair. The Drake caught Valeterisas arm, and the two locked gazes.
Are you a daughter of the walls? If you arecome with me. Were bound for war.
Valeterisa blinked at Sserys. She had no idea who he wasbut she was old enough to have known his stories. She hesitated, then shook her head.
I wanted to be. But they did not want me.
The Drake [General] stared Valeterisa in the eyes, then he spat over one wing. He looked back at Valeterisa, a wild glare in his eyes.
That city didnt deserve you. But we need you now. We are called upon to serve until we break. But we got it wrong. What we need to break is everything else. Follow me. Our people need us.
The Archmage of Izril hesitated until he told her his name. Then she followed him through the skies. Sserys kept flying, looking ahead.
So, it began with the Archmage of Chandrar freeing herself and fleeing Wistram. As the Illuminary sailed from Wistram, leaving the Isle of Mages in chaos, Archmage Eldavin and Tyrion Veltras fought alongside the Dawn Concordat.
There, General Dionamella fell and the Wyrm of Ailendamus swore vengeance. But he heard nothing. He saw no ghost of her, for there was none to see.
Nor did Fetohep of Khelt, sitting upon his throne. He talked with the Goblin Rags, and the [Emperor] of Riverfarm, who told the Goblin to fly for Liscor as the God of Rulers walked south to steal Erin Solstices body.
As Mrshas allies gathered in the Meeting of Tribes and Rafaema left Oteslia to seek a Dragon, Rags flew to Liscor. She arrived at the same time as Rafaema of Manus and attempted to wake Erin as the pall hanging over the ghosts in the Deadlands began to fade and they saw the end coming.
The God of Rulers and the Goddess of Last Stands, Tamaroth and Cauwine, both failed to steal Erin Solstices body. The Spear of the Drakes, General Sserys, took it into Pallass briefly, then said farewell to his city and flew south. He met the Archmage of Izril in the air and kept flying.
That very night, the Meeting of Tribes ended in a civil war as the Plains Eye tribe was revealed to have created a Daemon of Luck. The Witch of Webs walked about the task Chaldion of Pallass had given her.
The Forgotten Wing Company was under siege, Foliana lying wounded, and Talenqual was engulfed in battle as Gravetenders Fist and the United Nations company fought the Featherfolk Brigade in the streets. Paeth was falling.
The next morning, Fetohep of Khelt left Chandrar and sounded every alarm in existence. The ghosts of Chandrar watched him ride, and then the [Innkeeper] lifted the memory of the horn and blew it, and they heard. Ghosts and the living.
General Sserys laughed when he heard it, and Relc Grasstongue looked around for her, but the [Innkeeper] marched with the dead, leaving Chandrar. The God of Magic pursued the last Gnomes into a trap as the Witch of Webs stole the Titan from Izril. He routed the Jungle Tails company at Elvallian, and Paeth on the Coast teleported into the heart of Talenqual and ended the fighting.
The Last Traitor, Sprigaena, looked up then, and Cauwine reached down to her as Erin Solstice flew from Baleros. Pursued only by Norechl, the God of Nothing, for now. Wall Lord Ilvriss, Princess Lyonette du Marquin, Cire the Dragon, and the armies of Drakes advanced on the Gnolls of Izril as General Sserys flew towards them.
Ailendamus and the Dawn Concordat were poised to meet upon the borders of their nations, and Fetohep of Khelt looked north for the shores of Izril, trying to reach the Meeting of Tribes in time.
As for Rags
The inhabitants of the Wandering Inn knew none of this. They despaired, unable to process what theyd heard. A day after Erins body had vanished, they still didnt know what to do. Where to go. They stood around, asking questions.
Was that really Sserys? Or was it some other monster?
No one moved. No one knew what came next. They had failed. All that effort hadgone to waste.
Gone to waste? It had brought someone back. And that someonebut it wasnt her, and how much longer would they have to try and wait?
Then they heard that glorious horn call. It ran through the inn, through the ground, and everyone in Liscor heard it.
A little Goblin lying on her back and staring up at the ceiling sat up. A bunch of Goblins, Antinium, guests of the inn, looked at Rags. Redscar sat up too.
Chieftain? What happened?
How was she supposed to answer that? But because she was a Chieftain, a guest of Erins inn, Rags summarized it all with a general answer.
Big mess. Wrong person.
Then she stood up, dusted herself off, and grabbed her crossbow. Rags listened to the horn call and nodded. Her eyes lit up.
She is still fighting. Get the Wyverns ready.
The Goblins followed soon after. So, on Pegasus-back, the body of Erin Solstice flew. Possessed, arguably stolen.
From Liscor, the Spear of the Drakes, their greatest [General] in living memory, flew in the body of an [Innkeeper]. To strike fear into the hearts of his enemies and right all wrongs. Or just to pick a fight.
Whichever came first.
Authors Notes: This chapter worried me arguably more than the last three. I have a few things to say. I always hope theyre good, and I will have had one day to edit it.
However, Im running out of backlog. I had as many as two chapters, going into the end arc, which I wrote in advance partly on my break. The gaphas narrowed. Im running out of energy fast, which makes sense. This is the end of The Wandering Inns largest arc and volume by far. I just need to make sure the last two chapters I have planned stay good.
So, if I need to, I will skip Saturdays update. I will let you know, but revision, more time than regular is what these chapters need.
We are close to the ending. Ive seen comments and I think youre seeing it somewhat like I envisioned. Wait a little while longer. Were almost done Volume 8.
Heres to the general of Izril. Zel Shivertail, and that other guy. See you next chapter.
KsmvrDance by VulpyDoodlesStudios, commissioned by Spanner!
Relc Dry and Relc Washcloths by /shop/GoodLongYarn
Crusader 51, Fetoheps Ride and Artur by Lanrae!
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