Book 9: Chapter 15: VM

Book 9: Chapter 15: VM

[I am on break until the 20th of September! Also, Blood of Liscor, Book 8 of The Wandering Inn is now available for pre-order on Audible!]

Archmage Valeterisa Imarris of Izril had met with the children of Earth briefly to understand their world and witness one of the great phenomena occurring in the present day.

Another worlds people, crossing over with this one. She had made numerous observations, mostly simple, including their ages, the patterns of location that occurred with some groups, and, of course, their lack of levels hither-to arriving.

She listened while other [Mages] asked questions of what they thought was interesting or dangerous. Guns and airplanes and internet, oh my.

Unlike some, Valeterisa took every statement at face-value. Space travel? The movements of stars? Relative speed-to-time? She believed it allor a part of her did. Then she compartmentalized that full credulity and cross-checked it against factual evidence and her own understanding of physics and sciences.

Yet, Valeterisa would well admit she had not spent nearly as much time with them as even the other Archmages. Not for lack of interest! It was just

They had less to offer her. Their scientific understandings could be read once collated; culturally, a Human-only world was interesting, but Valeterisa had asked one Humanironically, the same one now climbing the beach towards the City of Magica question.

Saif, the young man who carried an airsoft gun, now enchanted to be even more of a threat than it was before, had answered the Archmage of Izrils most pressing question: what did he know of magic?

Stories, myths, pseudo-magicValeterisa had wanted to know. Saif had obliged her with a tale of a certain wizarding school, then found George for a legend of Elves, Dwarves, and a middle earth which assumed there were two other earthswhereupon theyd begun arguing about the deep lore of Tolkien.

The end result was incredibly disappointing for Valeterisa, and she had ended her direct contact shortly after that. Not because there were no depictions of magic on Earth or that they did not long for it. Rather, their magic sounded mundane.

Mundane, in the sense of fireballs and teleportation. There was a certain board game which made sense to most [Battlemages] as a representation in numbers of how much damage a spell could do. Magic in popular culture was still fantastical.

But it wasnt magic. There was something behind the ability to conjure a storm of wind or levitate a cup. Something more profound, more useful, and simpler altogether.

Valeterisa had written her thesis on the subject. Shed almost failed to graduate. So shed gone back to listening to Elena talk about celestial bodies. Magic had a place amidst the Earthers knowledge of science, and that made more sense to the Archmage of Izril.

She might never have realized that, growing up, and become another [Mage] of Fissival. But despite the Scholarium having changed so littleas she stood, ignored, amongst her former peers, Valeterisa glanced around. If nothing else, she had once had an excellent teacher.

Ignored. Montressa du Valeross saw Valeterisa staring at her feet as they stood in the Draconae Scholarium, in the great plaza overlooking the rest of the city. The font of magic and authority was gathered here, professors and magical nobility and more.

All deliberately ignoring Valeterisa. Pretending she didnt exist. Montressa was as red-faced as her hair, and she realized some of them gave her amused looks out of the corners of their eyes. She couldnt help it.

This wasnt right. It struck a chord with how she had been exiled. Itreminded her of Pisces, but this was worse than both in its way.

Because the Drakes here didnt shun Valeterisa because she was a [Necromancer] or for anything she had done. They ignored her because she was the Archmage of Izril. The greatest [Mage] who had come from their ranks. And they refused to look at her. Refused to grant her a meetingand Valeterisa seemed like she was a girl again, just studying the ground, too shy to speak.

For eighteen minutes, they stood there. Like a silent plea to be heard, as classes ended and Drakes moved around. The [Professors] and [Mages] milled about, talking, loitering, and sending their message.

In that time, Montressa waited for Valeterisa to do anything, but the Archmage held her ground, so Montressa did likewise. And the [Aegiscaster] realized there was a small benefit to that.

Because not all the Drakes were so studiously united.

In fact, the younger [Students] and [Mages] began to realize they had an interesting guest when they noticed the two Humans standing there.

It was not that they stood there; more than one citizen or tourist would do something similar, peer around the Scholarium and poke their tail everywhere, disrupt classes, and so on. Prospective candidates, etc.

Yet a pair of Drake [Students] trying to hold their [Aerial Shield] spells steady under Wardmistress Geyasas watchful gaze stopped teasing each other and trying to break the others focus. One of them cast around.

Hey, you feel that? Theres some kind ofaura or something around here. Its pretty strong. Cassa. Cassa, do you feel?

Nope. I failed my detection class, remember?

The other Drake grumbled, but she too picked upsomething. Both the male and female [Student] glanced about, then they focused on the Human woman standing next to the shorter one with red hair and red face.

Hey. Hey, Cassa. That Humans got skin almost as red as your scales. Thats hilarious. Is that, uh, that sunburn thing that Humans get?

Dont be mean, Toris. Shes probably a new student looking around.

Nah, she seems too old. And shes got some magical power. Feel that?

They were students, but still capable of detecting relative magical auras. Especially in Geyasas class; they might go on to be magical bodyguards or to ward houses, even venture into dungeons and remove traps. Even the negligent Cassa hesitated.

Yeah, but not from the young one. Whos that?

They gazed at Archmage Valeterisa, and both of their ward spells flickered at the same time. The two Drakes flinched as someone spoke.

Failure! Focus! Even if you turn your heads and chatter, I expect you to keep a spell up!

That was accompanied by a thack, and a newspaper, rolled up, hit both on the top of the head. Both students groaned as the [Wardmistress] glared at them.

If that hurts, consider how an arrow feels! Cassa, Toris, you have the luxury of remedial practice. See the assistant instructor for a date to make up your work. Everyone else? Class dismissed, well done.

The two Drakes groaned as their fellow students grinned at them and relaxed in relief. Geyasa had been probing their basic air-shields, trying to disrupt the magical flow and even tossing flames or other hazards they had to weather.

We didnt fail because our shields failed! We just lost focus!

Cassa glared at the sniggering classmates. One rolled their eyes.

Same thing. What were you staring at? Heywhos that?

And once again, the conversation repeated itself. Toris rubbed at his head and frowned.

Some Human who wants to send her kid to school? But theyre both pretty good. Actually, even the red-haired Human might be on par with a full [Mage].

Did you fail your lessons like Cassa, Toris? She could be a teacher. And thats the younger one. The older oneshe must be from Wistram. Or shes a new [Professor]. Check out her aura.

The other students were noticing Valeterisa as their classes finished. Only the distracted students had noticed at first, but now

Who is that?

They didnt know. But they could tell Valeterisa was something. The students of the Scholarium pointed, but none of the teachers had approached the Humans, and so maybe they were waiting for someone?

The students were mostly Drakes, as befit Fissival, but they had a minority of Humans, even Dullahans and other species from further abroad. Stitch-folk from Chandrar were rare given the mage-schools on the continent, and likewise for Terandria. Lizardfolk were not common, so Humans were the second most common students. Dullahans, Selphids, and Centaurs along with Drowned Folk combined made up similar numbers to the Human minority.

Even so, it took ages for one of them to identify Valeterisa. Not simply because her name was almost unknown here, but because the Archmage of Izril had been gone for eight long years. Only when someone remembered a brief image theyd seen from Wistram did they suspect who it was. Then the whispers began.

The Archmage of Izril? Really? I didnt know we had an Archmage! Whys she here?

I heard she was dead!

Maybe shes come to exchange knowledge with Fissival? Or trade with our [Mages]?

Didnt she fight in the Meeting of Tribes? Whyd anyone let her in?

Because she used to be a student here. Duh.

A cluster of students broke up, and the younger Drakes parted. The other students backed up as a far older [Student] of the Scholarium broke in. He was thirty-four years old and, like High Magus Telim, an essential fixture of the Scholarium.

Unlike Wistram, which was notorious for being an expensive school to attend, much less get to, even with scholarships, the Draconae Scholarium offered generous scholarships that included room and board. Some students were so fond of the arrangement they became permanent students rather than graduate.

This Drake was, in fact, Cassa and Toris assistant instructor. As well as taking classes and studying in his own time, he often helped the busy [Teachers]. Even sohed been a student longer than some of the new students had been alive.

No way, Kadril. Thats another lie, like kissing the statue of Obridein. Im not falling for your lies again.

You kissed the statue? Gross.

By that, they meant the statue most of the students were gathered around, which was named Obridein, a Drake kneeling on the ground in a surprisingly humble pose. But that was, perhaps, because the entire Walled City of Magic, in miniature, rested upon his back. It might have been a commentary on the role of [Mages] serving the city. Or maybe it was just ego. Either way, one of the favorite pranks on new students was to tell them it was good luck to kiss Obridein.

That was both highly unhygienic and unwise, because the older students would chill the statue so your lips stuck to the stone.

Anyways, Kadril ignored the younger students as he watched Valeterisa.

Yeah, thats her. Valeterisa, the Archmage of Izril. I saw her in the yearbook. Top of her class. Four year graduate. Pioneered her own magical spell, quit for Wistram, andthen became Archmage of Izril.

Cassa was still stuck on the first part. She raised a claw as she gaped at Valeterisa in amazement.

We had an Archmage? Graduate from here? Why didnt anyone ever mention that?

To that, Kadril just flicked his tail in a rude gesture and turned away with a snort. The younger students regarded each other, then they began to hurry off to spread word. The Archmage of Izril!

They neither knew her reputation nor her history. It was just her title that impressed them. But some of the Drakes, like Wardmistress Geyasa, paused a moment. She glanced around at her peers and didnt break the veil of silence. So the [Wardmistress] stormed to her next lecture, seeming more annoyed than usual.

And still, Valeterisa waited. She traced her eyes over the worn flagstones of the Scholarium, and Montressa looked around.

Here was a level of magic few places in the world could boast of. She wished she didnt hate it so.

Here was Fissivals famed teleportation network. Somewhere in the Scholarium, goods from cities in the region would teleport in and be traded out as needed. Once, this network had criss-crossed Izril. These days, it had errors that sometimes lost entire shipments of goods, and no one dared use it for personal teleportation.

It had been co-opted by Fissival to steal the Gnolls magic. But once, it had been great. Just like the legendsonce, Fissival flew. It still did, technically.

Archmage. We dont have to stand here.

Theyll never speak to you. Montressa interrupted Valeterisas silence after another two minutes had passed. The Archmages head snapped up. She glanced around before turning to Montressa.

I know. I hoped

A hand went up to touch her brow, but it hesitated, and she didnt cast a spell. Valeterisa just glanced around and sighed.

The classes are changing. Wait another few minutes. I want to see if someone is still here.

Who, exactly?

A [Mage Lord]? Or lady? More than even Salazsar, Montressa had noticed the aristocracy of Fissival was present here. A blend of noble classes and magic. She could only guess that being well-connected in this Scholarium would be akin to being favored in Pheislants royal courts.

However, Valeterisa just shook her head.

My teacher. OhI think hes here. See if you can spot him.

A rare smile crossed her face as her head rotated across the new classes coming into the courtyard. Montressa stood on her tip-toes, but she just saw a sea of Drake heads and robes. Valeterisa, thoughshe was smiling.

It must be the start of a new semester.

Who was she looking at? Montressa saw new classes beginning, and indeed, the most raw [Students] were taking their first steps to becoming [Mages] here.

[Students], not [Mages]. That fascinated Montressa. There were few of that class in Wistram, but Valeterisa spoke absently.

Oh, yes. We have [Teachers] and [Professors] and [Students] here. Classes devoted to learning. Its not always considered optimal, but I had a [Student] class which I consolidated into [Scholar]. Then it all became [Mage]. I have always missed that. Wistram has a different kind of magicbut its teachers are often quite poor atteaching.

Montressa was about to object to that with pride in her former academythen she remembered Illphres entire class had been freezing a classroom and daring her students to unfreeze it for an entire semester. She had to admitit was a fair point. Eldavin had been a rare [Mage] who was as good at teaching magic as casting it.

So, the [Teachers] in Fissival let the Scholarium take students who didnt even know how to cast spells yet. A group of young Drakes and two Humans were holding their wands, some of them barely ten years old, and a kindly [Teacher] was showing them how to channel magic into their wands.

No, dont cast anythingjust focus. Good. Pass! And you

How do I focus, Teacher?

A Drake girl seemed distressed as she tried to push magic into her wand. She was probably not a native of Fissival if she didnt know how to even put magic into her wand. Montressa saw the Drake draw his own wand with a flourish.

Like this. [Learn by Example] and [Illustrated Point]. See? The magic comes down the arm, into the wand, and it gathers here.

Montressa blinked. She could read magic flow, but that was an advanced trick. Now, with only her mundane eyes, she saw magic running down the [Teacher]s arm into his wand. The class oohed, and the young Drake stared at her wand excitedly.

I get it! You pull it from hereI get it!

Teaching Skills. Montressa had to admitthat wasnt bad. Other [Teachers] and [Professors] clearly had Skills that had little magical utility but a lot of power in these classroom settings. One spotted a snoozing Drake and snapped her fingers.

[Focus, Class].

The Drake blinked, snapped up to guilty attention, and she gave him a reproving look. But a lot of Skills also extended to identifying struggling students or clarifying points.

Yet Montressas interest in each teacher was also in finding Valeterisas own mentor. Who was it? The teacher showing wands? Another illustrating how to draw runes? That teacher, over there, making his students run across the ground?

Testicles! If the Sinew Magus has proven anything, its that a [Mage] can be fit and cast spells! I studied under Grimalkin himself. You want to take on a Wyvern bare-handed? Well then

Definitely not that one.

It seemed like old graduates of Fissival could influence the Scholarium even after theyd left. For proof of thatMontressa saw a familiar face in another open plaza area in the vast courtyard.

Not that she knew Archmage Zelkyr that well, but only he would be standing amongst a corner of one of the buildings, in a small plot of grass, with the familiar Truestone Golemsone of themflanking him.

Interestingly, it was not Cognita, but the Gnoll Golem. Montressa really would love to know what Cognita thought of that. An entire class was sitting in the shadow of the statues.

They were eight feet tall. There, along the low stone edge you could sit on, a Drake was lecturing his class. It didnt seem like a magical lesson. His prop was a simple object too. Montressa sharpened her gaze and amped up her vision, but

Nope. It was just a rock.

The [Professor] sat with the rock laying just within arms reach, his entire class of students, some of whom seemed like they were close to graduation, listening to him.

I have a profound conundrum to start our course, students. You see here, I have a rock. It is unenchanted, ordinary, and it is right here. I should very much like to lift it up to, say, around head-height. How might I effect a solution to my problem?

The students glanced at each other, and some laughed, but the Drake had a completely serious face. One bold student sitting close to him stood up.

I can help, Professor. What about?

She picked up the rock and held it up. The [Professor] gaped at herand then he exploded into fury.

What have you done?

The unlucky student nearly dropped the rock in fright. Montressa raised her brows as the Drake shot to his feet. She glanced over and saw Valeterisa was watching him. She had a slight smile on her face, and so Montressas interest reached a zenith. She listened, and both Human [Mages] walked over a bit as the [Professor] began to rant.

Do you know what youve done?

N-no, Professor Pexalix, sir? What did I do?

Pexalix glared at the Drake and gestured to the rock.

You picked up the rock!

She hesitated. Now, the class really was laughing, and some of the older Drakes and students who were familiar with Pexalix were rolling their eyes. The student hesitated and peered at him.

Yes. And?

Youve wasted your life. Look at her, class! Look what she did! She had to stand up, walk over here, and pick up the rock. Shes wasted five seconds, six, perhaps, of her life! Her life. Shell never get that back. Six seconds. Are you fine with this, Miss?

Now, the young Drake was certain shed stepped into a trap and was trying to make the best of it.

Naithorne, Professor. Its only a few seconds. Whats the problem?

The [Professor]s eyes glinted. He glanced up and saw Valeterisa, but he went on as if she werent there.

Oh, to be so young. Miss Naithorne. How many rocks or objects do you think youll pick up in your life?

Um. I dont know. Thousands? Tens of thousands?

Thousands. And if each time you wasted six seconds, how many minutes does that become? Hours? Lets assume you picked up only a hundred thousand objects in your entire life. Multiply that by six seconds. How much time have you wasted? Anyone? I know most of you graduated from your basic mathematics course.

Six hundred thousand seconds divided upone Drake raised his claw, amused.

About seven days, sir.

Seven days of her life. Gone. Just like that. And thats assuming only six seconds.

Even seven days doesnt sound that bad, if I live to be a hundred, Professor.

Now, Naithorne was trying to be difficult. But Pexalixs eyes were still glinting.

Oh, how charitable. But that rock is there not to just be your personal lifting device, Miss Naithorne, but a metaphorical rock for us all. Lets assume you are content with wasting seven days of your life. Tell me. How many citizens live in Fissival?

No one knew that off the top of their head.

Millions, sir?

Millions, correct. Every single person now loses seven days of their life. How many years wouldthree million Drakes lose to lifting that rock?

He didnt wait for an answer, although Valeterisa was working on it. Pexalix spun, and Montressa began to understand what he was saying as he strode back to his seat.

Lifting that rock can be easy. If you have an arm and you feel like standing up, you can lift it. But lets say I want to save myself the time. How else might I lift the rock? And since Ive taught this class, no smart answers like your tail, your other hand, your foot, or your mouth. Assume we are limbless, bodiless people.

The students were warming to his lesson now. A hand shot up, and a Dullahan boy spoke, cautiously, as he held his head up.

Magic, sir?

A classic answer for a [Mage]. Yes, magic. Levitation, teleportation, a pillar of earth, even wind

Now, the [Professor] gestured, and the rock gently floated up. It fell, then a pillar of earth lifted it before a wind spell blew it around and nearly brained a passing [Professor]. Pexalix raised an apologetic claw as his class laughed.

I apologize for that. Id teleport it, but as we know, only our vaunted teleportation network works in a Walled City. Ahem. Magic, indeed. Nowwhat about ways other than magic?

His class was stumped for a second. Then, someone else raised her claw.

What aboutone of the lifts in Pallass? Or something like that? A contraption to pick it up?

Aha.

The Drake was smiling now. He nodded.

Perfect. Youve gotten farther than some classes. A contraption. A sling, a levergood, good. What else?

They stalled for a second. The [Professor] waited, then supplied them with the answer.

Lets say you were not my students and I, this bodiless, magic-less voice, had the issue. You, Miss Naithorne. Would you waste your time once more and pick up the rock forsix copper coins?

Sure.

The [Professor] nodded about.

She doesnt even haggle. And like that, I have exchanged six copper coins for six seconds of her life. Is that a fair deal?

Does that count, Professor?

A student looked interested, and the [Professor] raised both his brows.

Count? Of course it does. Ive paid someone else to do work for me. Its entirely valid. Or do you think a [Carpenter] builds you a chair out of the goodness of his heart? You could, perhaps, do that work yourself, but how long would it take you to make a chair? Why not buy one pre-made? Could you make one with magic? Of course. But it seems to me many questions we have are about how to efficiently lift a rockor balance the cost. The rock, if you hadnt guessed, is a metaphor and the topic of this course.

His students peered at him, some blank-faced, but Montressa got it. Pexalix sighed as he flicked his claws, and an illusion of marching Drakes wearing armor appeared. He glanced up again at Valeterisa.

[Soldiers] fight battles to protect citizens like us. Adventurers kill monsters. [Miners] mine ore in Salazsar, and everyone has their profession. Some people will spend every second of their professions in the service of others. And this is a necessary thing to keep Fissival running. Consider our sewers. Who would enjoy a job, say, cleaning them every day? Unclogging toilets?

He cast about. No one raised their hands, and the Drake nodded.

And yetit is necessary. We do make people do it. Is that fair to them? I will point out, by the way, that those who clean the sewers are by and large either Second-Class Citizens or Foreigners under working visas. Let alone their species.

We pay them. Its a job, Professor.

One of the students retorted, seeming a bit annoyed by what Pexalix was putting down. The [Professor] shot back calmly.

So will you do it? How much are they being paid? If they had a choice, do you think any of them would say that sewer-cleaning is their ideal occupation? It is a huge, disgusting rock, and someone must lift it. The question iswhy are we lifting it that way? Could we lift the rock of sewer-cleaning another way? Say with

He waggled his claws and produced some colorful sparks, which faded as they showered into the air and onto the ground. Then, Naithorne spoke up.

You mean magic, Professor?

Exactly. Magic or a Pallassian gadget or something more inventive still. Why dont we do that? We have [Cleanse] spells. Why not send a [Mage] down and, though it may be disgusting, just [Cleanse] the damn sewers rather than do it manually?

His students eyed each other. Some of them murmured, and Montressa herself was curious. Now that he mentioned itwhy not indeed? It sounded easy. Shed heard of Pisces sewer-cleaning Bone Horror, but why not just scour the damn place? Maybe Liscor lacked for the right [Mages], but she was sure Fissival could do it.

Pexalix knew the answer, which was why hed brought it up. He ticked the points off on his clawed hand.

A few reasons, class. Firstly? Magic is money, and many [Mages] consider the work beneath them. It is far cheaper to hire some Second-Class Citizens than to hire a Level 30 [Mage]. Second? Size. Fissivals sewers are vast andconsider the [Cleanse] spell. It scales up the mana cost with the amount it needs to clean. Perhaps there is a [Mass Cleanse] spell, but who could cast that? But lastlywe have found that if you obsessively [Cleanse] an area of filth, the resulting overly-clean area can have dire consequences and backlash of its own.

Really?

The class was fascinated. Pexalix grimaced.

I will be assigning you books on magical disasters, and the Sewer Purge disaster will be your reading material tonight. It happened in our very sewers. We shall discuss magical mishapsbut suffice it to say that [Cleanse] was not a cure-all.

Montressa eyed Valeterisa, and the Archmage of Izril refused to meet her eyes. She muttered out of the corner of her mouth.

It only applies to huge quantities of filth.

So you were still courting disaster, Archmage?

The reply popped out of Montressas mouth before she could help it. Valeterisa blinked and then narrowed her eyes as Montressa turned red. Then she smiled and glowered at the same time.

Yet Pexalix was going on.

And yet, my class. And yet. It would be all too convenient to say, oh, magic cannot solve everything. We must hire [Cleaners] and that is that. If [Cleanse] cannot do the job, we are stuck. Is that fair?

By this point, some of his students, like Naithorne, were wise enough to wait. But Pexalix had baited a few nods from his students, and his next explosion was the most gregarious still.

Are you insane?

He was on his feet again and striding past students recoiling, leaning back, but his eyes were ablaze with passion for his subject. The [Professor] slapped his chest with one claw and the ground with his tail.

You are all students of the Draconae Scholarium, the greatest magic-school of Izril! If you give up on a problem because one spell does not work, you do not deserve to be [Mages]. Magic can solve the sewer problem. It is my belief it can solve any problem. Perhaps not efficiently, but it can be done. Magic is more than a [Fireball]. How else could you clean the sewers? Anyone?

He swung around and almost fell to his knees.

Anyone. One spell! One original thought in the Scholarium, for the love of Dragons!

Well, what about enchanting a mop? Or summoning a familiar? Or just casting [Tidal Wave]?

Pexalix glanced up. Montressa du Valeross saw his students glance at her, but she hadnt been able to resist. The [Professor] smiled.

Ah, now theres an idea. And Fissival has employed all those things. And Golems. Then we used our Golems in war, and the sewers became the job of citizens once more. Yet magic remains. Magic can do anything, even make magic simpler. Isnt that right, Archmage Valeterisa?

Every head turned, and the students stared as Valeterisa bowed slightly. She peered at the old [Professor], who had broken the code of the Scholarium, and smiled.

Yes, Professor Pexalix. In these days, magic is a single spell. But what is a ritual of old, or a grand spell, but a thousand little spells built upon each other? That rock you hold is a mundane rock, but upon millions of its kind we made the Walled Cities. Can a spell create food? Or if not food, can a Golem plow a field? Can a spell cast a spell? I believe it can. We have simply forgotten how.

Montressas head turned, and her eyes opened wide in disbelief. Can a spell cast a spell? Valeterisa sounded like one of the [High Mages] of Wistram, like Telim, higher still on Salas more recreational herbs.

Yet Valeterisa and Pexalix held each others gaze in perfect seriousness, and the [Professor] chuckled slowly.

She just gave away the last part of my course. Ah, and here is a former student of mine and Fissivals. Archmage Valeterisa. We may have to cut the class short, students.

Not for me. Studying, magic, are their own rewards.

She stood there, and the old [Professor] looked her up and down. Montressa wondered who had aged more in the time they had not seen each other. From the deep fondness, sadness, and regret in his eyesshe felt like it was not him. Yet Valeterisa still smiled, and she met her old teachers eyes as he exhaled, proud.

Yes. So great [Mages] have always said. Later, then. Where was I? Sewers? Well, since we have been spoiled on the premise of magicyes, were going to review spells. Why do we cast a [Fireball] with the woven-method? And if you dont know what Im talking about, then we had better get the idea into your heads that spells dont have to be cast the same way. Its just that most [Mages] dont vary a spell. Why, theres a fine example with the famous Archmage of Memory in his duel with Archmage Feor that illustrates my point. But to start from the beginning

Montressa stepped back with Valeterisa as Pexalix found his spot again. Soon, he was teaching a course that Montressa wished shed taken in Wistram. She studied Valeterisa.

So, hes your great teacher?

The finest teacher I could have asked for. He teaches ideas, not spells. Methods, not outcomes. I wondered if he was still here.

Now, Montressa understood the forces that had shaped Valeterisa. The rules of Fissival and how they treated citizens. The [Crafters] and their mastery of magic. And Pexalix, the [Professor] whose ideas had echoed in Valeterisa until now.

Yet, and yet. As Valeterisa gazed fondly at her former teacher, someone cleared her throat, and both Montressa and the Archmage turned. A Drake stood there, wearing the bright blue robes embroidered with the Scholariums crest. She spoke sharply.

Valeterisa. I cannot believe you have the audacity to show your face here. I cannot believe you were not arrested for your treachery at the Meeting of Tribes. Have you come to beg the forgiveness of the Scholarium or just see everything you abandoned?

Sooral.

Valeterisa blinked at the other Drake. She had a very shockingly bright set of yellow scales, and combined with the blue, it contrived to make her stand out vividly. She seemedwell, furious, but also somewhat lost. Like someone who had been following the north star only to fall off a cliff. Nervous?

Magus Lady Sooralese to you, Valeterisa! We are not students anymore. Nor are you any close confidant of mine. I hold you responsible for Wall Lord Dragials death. But for youwe would have won a great victory at the Meeting of Tribes!

Oh. Her hostility suddenly made sense to Montressa. Valeterisa took a long breath.

Were you a close supporter of his? He was exiled from Fissival, if I recall. You were always fond of him, although he barely noticed us, being three years ahead.

The other Drakes cheeks blushed with fury.

Dont speak of him that way! He was exiled purely on political reasons; the Scholarium never revoked his status. He was a [Mage Lord] of Fissival.

A graduate. So was I. I never liked him. He bullied me quite often. I was surprised he died at the Meeting of Tribes. I would have thought he knew better than to join a war. He was always bad at direct combat magic. Summoning was his forte.

Valeterisa sounded oddly dispassionate as she stared at a distant memory. Sooral gasped for outrage. Her voice trembled as she aimed a finger at the Archmage.

You never fit in the academy. You and yourself-proven theories. Just because you won a few duels and patented a spell, you think that gives you the right to look down on Dragial?

Her tail was lashing the ground in irritation. Valeterisa shifted, and Montressa, glancing at the other watching Drakes now, thought the Archmage was almost trying to hold a smile.

Not for that. But he was three years ahead of me. And I graduated before him.

Sooral gasped in fury. She had a wand at her side in one of the holsters there, and her claw twitched for that.

I should have you expelled on the spot! Not just from the Scholarium, but from the entire city!

I am a citizen of Fissival. And a [Mage] of the Scholarium.

I am a Mage Lady of Fissival

Valeterisa cut her off suddenly.

And I have done nothing wrong. You cannot play tricks on me anymore. I just realized that. You can probably still make my life more difficult, but if you would like to directly punish me, you would need to duel me. Formally. If you would like to issue a challenge, go ahead.

Slowly, Valeterisa drew her wand, and the Mage Lady hesitated. Montressa, in her shoes, would have hesitated. She had seen Valeterisas poor duel against Fyresbut shed also seen how it ended, and somehow, she didnt think Valeterisa would be as inept against Sooral.

A crowd had gathered, now, mostly of students, and the [Mage Lady] looked around as she unconsciously took a step back.

Idont have the mana to waste on you, Valeterisa. Nor the patience!

She turned, and Valeterisa called at her back.

Drakes dont run. Coward. Isnt that what you said to me, Sooral?

The yellow-scaled Drake froze mid-step and nearly turned, but she kept walking. Valeterisa focused on Soorals back and then turned. Montressa was beaming, but Valeterisa was not as she began walking away.

Archmage, that was incredible. Who was that?

A Drake. Who was in my year. I did not like her. I wish that made me feel better.

Valeterisa wasnt smiling as Montressa glanced up in astonishment.

You embarrassed her publicly! She didnt dare challenge you!

She pointed out, hoping it made Valeterisa smile, but the Archmage just shrugged.

No. I was the one who bullied her. It doesnt change what a younger Valeterisa went through decades ago. Dragial is dead. He would have caused trouble, laws or not. She might, but he

She slowed and glanced around blankly.

Not even the Drakes who hated me most are alive anymore. Im not their enemy. Almost all of them just forgot about me.

She shook her head. Montressas feeling of vicarious pride and satisfaction faded away. Valeterisa turned, and a few more Drakes were watching her. She nodded to them.

Professor Worpell. Magus Lord Cureq. General Hexa. And

Magic General Vors. On leave. To correct you, Archmage, it would be Supreme Magi-General Hexa.

Four Drakes stood facing Valeterisa. One was a professor, almost as grey-scaled as Pexalix, but female, with a monocle floating in front of one eye. The Mage-Lord was a hostile, scowling Drake of around Soorals age and, Montressa guessed, much of the same mindset as Sooral.

The two [Generals] of Fissival were an odd contrast, though. General Hexa wore enchanted cloth-plate armor; cloth shaped much like plate armor but far lighter. General Vors, on the other hand, was wearing an oddly exotic-looking scale plate set and stood slightly apart from the rest. He had some kind of a staff withglass shards on top?

I dont know you, Magic General. The rest? I greet you.

Valeterisa peered at Vors with some interest and inspected Hexas armor. The [Professor] spoke curtly.

Magus Valeterisa. You have caused something of a stir in the Scholarium. I trust you will not disrupt the students academic studies or the peace of the Scholarium unduly?

I simply asked Sooral if she was challenging me to a duel.

Valeterisa pointed behind her, much like a student excusing herself to a teacher. Whichperhaps she had been. She certainly seemed to know all the other Drakes and at least the [Professor] and [Mage Lord] intimately.

That is your right, Valeterisa. As is your right to take yourapprentice?on a tour of the Scholarium. Within reason. I regret that we did not have the opportunity to offer you an earlier date for your audience. But it is pleasing to see you looking so well. I thought you had passed away years ago.

Worpells voice was calm, even polite-sounding, but Montressa was familiar enough with Wistrams politics to detect something akin to Nailihuailes tones in her voice. And her comments clearly stuck in Valeterisas skin. She lifted her chin and spoke unhappily.

I am the Archmage of Izril. I have met with Archmage Eldavin, and you all have seen his great magic from Wistram. Yet I was denied a single audience. Do you have no interest in magic?

General Vors eyes shot sideways as his brows rose, but Mage Lord Cureq replied without looking directly at Valeterisa. He focused on a point over Montressas head as he spoke.

Your presence, Magus Valeterisa, is unwelcome. You are both a theoretical agent of the north as well as a representative of Wistram, whom we have recently clashed with. Not only that; you took up arms against Fissival. As Supreme General Hexa points out, the army is within its rights to expel you as a direct threat to the city. That we have not is a sign of good faith. But to return to the Scholarium after decades of silence and expect an open-armed welcome is extreme, even for you.

Valeterisa stared at him and exhaled slowly.

Not everyone can pay to be remembered fondly, Magus Lord. Nor do I regard my studies here as positive. Some of my classes and classmates were unpleasant.

She peered long at Worpell, but the [Professor] just met the gaze unflinchingly. Cureq shifted.

Our student years are more than half our lifetimes ago, Valeterisa. It seems pedantic to bring up grudges from then.

I am a citizen of a Walled City. I suppose I have Drake-like qualities.

Valeterisa snapped back. Montressas mouth opened. She was getting angry! The Archmage was so agitated that the Supreme General tensed slightly, but it was Vors who spoke up.

I believe, at least, we should hear Archmage Valeterisa out. I was unaware she had petitioned for a meeting. I, myself, came directly to meet with her out of pure curiosity when I heard she had arrived in Fissival.

Vors! She is an enemy of our city! She fought against our people at the Meeting of Tribes!

Hexa hissed at him as he broke ranks. The Drake grimaced.

You mean, that she fought for Salazsar? The record clearly shows Wall Lord Ilvriss hired her. I would regard that more as working for Oteslia and Salazsar in conjunction with the Gnolls side.

Still traitorous. I would be ashamed of any Drake who conducted such an act that I had personally approved as a student.

Professor Worpell observed calmly. Valeterisas eyes narrowed.

So, did you approve stripping the Gnolls of their magic? Part of my request to meet with Fissivals Three or the Scholarium was to ascertain who was aware of that act. Wistram is curious.

Then there was silence. All the Drakes paused, and Montressa saw Cureqs eyes dart left and right, taking Worpell and Hexas opinions. The Supreme General of Fissival spoke carefully.

Is this a formal inquiry on behalf of Wistram?

No.

Ah, then

Archmage Eldavin expressed curiosity in whatever I might find. We are part of a faction. Terras. The theft of Gnolls magical power is a worldwide concern which the Terras faction stands against.

Valeterisas words made the three Drakes consider themselves for the first time since theyd begun the conversation. They werent afraid of her, but Wistram? Eldavin?

Were they blind? Montressa wondered. Maybe the old Worpell, butwhat did they see? Perhaps even Hexa, who was clearly younger than the older Mage Lord, Professor, and Valeterisaperhaps they just saw her as she had been.

However, Magic General Vors was different from the rest, and he spoke slowly as every head snapped towards him.

It is a disgusting act. A shame upon Fissival which has jeopardized our position on the continent and worldwide. As I have said to Fissivals Threeand I will repeat myself, General Hexa, with apologieseven Rhir has not looked kindly upon Fissivals detachment. Our Gnollish allies fighting the Demonslets just say that it is a rare instance when any [General] is given a vacation from Hell. But my remaining would have been as disruptive as my departure.

So General Hexa was now one of Fissivals Three? Montressa was amazedeither that meant she was a temporary appointee or the Drakes here had enough sway to make her a peer, not the outright leader. All three Drakes glared at Vors, but hed stated his case, and Valeterisa gave him a slow nod.

Ah. You went to Rhir.

I did indeed. I have been serving in a combined-unit with an excellent mercenary force from Baleroshence my armorand Avels archers. Weve seen battle against the Demons twice, but no Death of Magic. Thankfully.

Avel?

Montressa spoke at the same time as Valeterisa brightened up.

Ah, I forgot about the Death of Magic. You wouldnt happen to have run into any of her spells, would you?

Montressa bowed, blushing as Vors studied Valeterisa and then her. She introduced herself, and he nodded.

Avel, indeed. Amazing archers. They have better aim than even our [Sharpshooter Spellslingers]; with those bows, they can hit almost any target. As for the Death of MagicI regret to say we have fought with her damned summoned Demons. Two thousand fake Demons wearing plate armor who kill like the real things while swarms of insects assailed us overhead. And she can conjure fake armies every week.

He grimaced. Even the other Drakes of the Scholarium seemed uneasy at that level of sheer magical power, but Valeterisa was fascinated.

Expendable armies. Eldavin is capable of the same thing, but I cannot imagine he has the scope yet. Highly efficient. Professor Pexalix, did you hear?

Ah, that would be the flip side of the positive world of magic I hope my students will build. I see weve finally decided to talk to the Archmage of Izril, have we? Good evening, Miss. I never got your name.

Pexalix had finished his class in the time since theyd begun talking. Now, he stepped into the circle, and Worpell glared at him.

This conversation of Rhir is a separate issue to Fissivals concerns.

Yet the Demons concern everyone, with the greatest respect, Professor. I was dismayed at their power. One Deathless is countering countless nations sending forces to combat her. Frankly, I believe her to be a greater threat than the King of Destruction by far. I returned to present my opinion to the Scholarium to find us at war with Salazsar!

Over their treachery!

Hexa glared at Vors, in clear disbelief at this break within Fissivals military ranks. However, she was no Chaldion, and Vors shot back, his tones rising in anger.

Because they sided with the Gnolls? We did not have to march on the Meeting of Tribes! And I have yet to get a clear answerwho convinced Fissivals Three to send our armies there?

Wall Lord Dragial.

Cureq spoke, and the silence that followed was complete. Vors exhaled.

Then it seems as though his ambitions have cost us dearly. And ended with him.

No. Not ended.

Vors head snapped up, and he focused on Valeterisa. She gazed at Cureq and cast around. The angry Mage Lady Sooraleven Worpell, Hexa? Valeterisas head moved around, and then Montressa felt an itch between her shoulder blades. She turned and saw a Drake watching her.

He didnt look much distinguished from the other Drakes. Turquoise, which Montressa supposed was handsome or unique? He wore robes, and he was probably either a full mage or close; his aura was fairly good, but he was young. What made him stand out, perhaps, was the intensity of that glare.

It was venomous. And he stood next to Sooral and a lot of younger [Mages]. Valeterisa spoke slowly, glancing around. She was replying to Vors, but putting something together with a resigned air.

Ah, I see it now. Dragial never really lost power, did he? I didnt know he was so famous, but he was always well-loved here. Teachers liked him. And the students went on to become leaders. Dragials dead. But it seemshe had a son.

Montressa felt a sinking feeling in her stomach. Worpells mouth closed tightly, and Vors glanced around and then clenched his jaw as something went click in his head. As for Valeterisa? She nodded.

It makes sense. He was famously promiscuous as a student.

Pexalix snorted, but Valeterisa was already turning. She gazed at Worpell and sighed.

Will the Scholarium at least hear me?

Not formally for two months. We are unfortunately busy. If you would like to speak to other members, that is, of course, your right.

The [Professor] replied with that same fake polite tone. Valeterisa exhaled.

I will not be staying two months. Will anyone speak to me or listen before then?

She cast around again, and the students watched her avidly, whispering, and now hearing rumors spread from her enemies mixed with old tales of her glory. Vors began to nod, but Hexa just turned away.

You and I will have a cup of tea, Valeterisa.

Pexalix spoke, patting Valeterisas arm, but no one else moved. Montressa saw, for a final time, Valeterisas head dip and how she focused on her feet. Worpell did smile at that. Right until a Drake floated up over the side of the plaza.

Magus Lord Ascoden could fly. And he knew how to cut an entrance. It was only, unfortunately, undercut by Eun, the young man from South Korea, clinging to one leg. The moment they landed, Eun fell to his knees and curled up. Montressa stared at the familiar face from Wistram.

Hadnt Nailihuaile introduced her to? And while she was cut off from Wistram, Bezale had said there was a breakout

Those tail-wanking, shit-stealing [Sneak Thieves].

Hexa recoiled as Montressa breathed, realizing what theyd done. So this was where the Earthers were! She was furiously composing a message to the academy before she realized she was still expelled.

As for Valeterisa? She blinked as Mage Lord Ascoden strode forwards.

Archmage Valeterisa.

Mage Lord Ascoden. Youve returned.

Worpell sounded uncertain as the Drakes turned to face him. They clearly knew him, but like Vors, he wasnt with the majority of the group. And Ascoden was locked onto Valeterisa.

Im delighted to have arrived just in time. Archmage Valeterisa, it is an honor to meet you!

He had his claw held out, but Mage Lord Cureq intercepted Ascoden. The scarred Drakehe had some kind of fresh wound, Montressa noticedhad to halt or run over Cureq as the other Drake spoke loudly.

The Archmage was just leaving the Scholarium. She has been unable to meet with any members, save her closest friendsfriend.

He gave Ascoden an intent look, which was as un-subtle as you got. In reply, Ascoden calmly elbowed Cureq aside.

Then she will meet with one. I would be delighted to hear anything she wishes to say.

The Drake reached out, and Valeterisa gave his claw a blank, surprised look. Then, hesitantly, she took his hand and seemed just as astonished when he shook it. Ascoden gazed around, and if the Scholarium had been a solid wall against Valeterisa

There was now a crack in it. Worpell almost hissed, but she turned it into a smile, conscious of the students.

And what would Magus Valeterisa wish to discuss with the Scholarium? If we are entertaining her requests.

She glanced at Valeterisa, and the Archmage of Izril looked Ascoden in the eyes. Then she turned. She adjusted her spectacles and peered around at the Scholarium.

I was wondering if my old rooms were still here. I would like to see them. Oh, and if the Scholarium was interested in making me a Mage Lady of Fissival.

Sooral gasped in outrage, and the crowd made similar noises. But Valeterisa just raised her voice calmly.

If soI would live here, take up my role as Archmage of Izril here, and teach and study magic. I am

She hesitated.

I am still a daughter of the walls. I came back to see if there was a place for me here.

She peered at the blank, surprised expressions of the other Drakes. At Montressa and Ascodens raised brows. Buteven if she were an Archmage, she was no [Archmage]. Not yet. And that was why, despite Montressa desperately casting [Detect Truth] over and overshe couldnt find a lie in Valeterisas statement.

Predictablythe fights began almost minutes later.

If you didnt know about Archmage Valeterisa before todaywell, you did now. The City of Fissival was abuzz with her name and her offer.

However, the real drama was about whether or not the City of Magic intended to take the Archmage of Izril up on her offer.

Her highly egotistical, nay, outrageous, provocatively dangerous offer. At least, to hear Valeterisas detractors describe it.

You see, two narratives were dueling. Or maybe two perspectives, between Valeterisas allies and her enemies, and they had everything from tales of her as a student to recent events like her participation in the war at the Meeting of Tribes.

It was charitable to say that Valeterisa was starting from a position of weakness in getting anyone on her side, but then againWall Lord Dragial and his followers were essentially the same bloc who hated Valeterisa and didnt want her near any official position of power in Fissival.

They did not speak for all of Fissival. In fact, Dragials own actions, such as battling Lehra Ruinstrider and sullying Fissivals name until he was expelled, spoke to the existing rift in the City of Magic. He had enough power to call upon an army, but the revelation that Fissival had stolen Gnolls magic had entrenched the differences such that while Valeterisa was being slandered by some powerful members of the Scholarium, that same divide was giving her allies who hated Dragial.

That was the broad overlay. Nowwhat were the stakes? Simply put, if Valeterisa got her way, Fissival got themselves the Archmage of Izril in residency. They would grant her all the rights of a Mage Lady of Fissivaland that was a powerful position theoretically on par with Ilvriss own authority.

In practice, it would probably be limited, but it was a lot of funding, free space, and authority that even Valeterisa would like. It would give Fissival a powerful, if erratic and sometimes-absent, ally and Valeterisa her base to continue magic studies and a lot of the Scholariums in-built resources.

A win for both sides, in theory. Montressa didnt like it. She didnt think Valeterisa needed to be part of Fissival or that the marriage would be good for either.

Surprisingly, Valeterisas closest allies seemed to agree. Wall Lord Ascoden, General Vors, and the [Crafters] were all shocked by Valeterisas announcement and tried to talk her out of it. This all took place as the Scholarium argued, students began to take sides and even duel over the issue, and the Earthers were introduced to Fissival.

Montressa knew Saif, the kid with the airsoft gun. Eun, from South Korea, Andrea, and Jacques were the only other ones she could identify by name. However, there were nearly two dozen more Humans, who found the City of Fissival as dismaying as it was interesting.

Here comes the new jail cell, same as the old one. Speaking of which, I saw that Valeterisa person at the banquet. And Miss Montressa. Did we come to another continent just to see the same faces? How are they here when we were on that boat for weeks?

Saif was complaining loudly. Magus Lord Ascoden was poking around the house that theyd allotted the Earthers. Montressa was still staring around.

An entire street would belong to the Earthers, entrenched in one of the districts alongside the Scholarium. Either the city had a bunch of houses theyd left unused or someone had been evicted, but that was a Walled Citys power.

They wanted to show the Earthers some hospitality, so Fissival food, including the weird Sap String, was being carted to the hungry Humans, who had come off a ship just hours ago.

And already, the other Walled Cities were getting mad. Ascoden came out of one of the rooms, tucking a bit of scorched paper into one pocket.

Eyes of Pallass. The Cyclops must be mad; that seemed too obvious. Which means theres something Ive missed. Call for Geyasa.

Are we hostages now?

Eun was sitting in a chair, and the Mage Lord nodded to him.

Guests is the term. But mandatory guests, so yes. The other Walled Cities will argue, and some of you may go to the other ones.

Were not parcels to beparceled up!

Jacques snapped, furious. He was from Ireland, and Ascoden leaned on a counter, seeming serious.

No, and if High Command is smart, they wont make Wistrams mistakes. Ill advocate for you all as hard as I can, but you have to understand, we do need information. So youre not parcels. Youre citizens of what you all readily admit is a world poweror world powerswho may or may not be hostile. And who make movies about killing alien species. Think of yourselves like that.

He was more up-to-date on Earth terminology and ideas than most people that Montressa had met. Nor did he lie, which some of the Earthers grudgingly appreciated.

At least this place is bigger than Wistram. Do we have minders or something?

If you want to walk around, well have a guide. Unobtrusive if you like. Youll never see them. So this explains what I saw on Rhir.

General Vors glanced at the Earthers, and Mage Lord Ascodens head rose sharply.

Earthers?

They must have been. The heroes of Rhir. Youll need my full report. Later.

Both of them were glancing at Montressa, who well knew that Rhir had some Earthers, but her ears were sharp. And besides

It was Valeterisas presence that was the most uncertain. The Scholarium would have to vote, and by proxy, Fissival. That was the claim, at least.

In truth, Montressa doubted that the [Crafters] who had come racing to find Valeterisa had much of a voice, along with any Second-Class Citizens, but it was theoretically possible for public pressure to influence any votes. However, Vors, Ascoden, and other members of the Scholarium had the real authority.

Which begged the question. How did either one know Valeterisa? Vors was easy; he didnt know her personally, but he had been to Rhir and had been given the eye-opening experience of working in combined-arms units. He was opposed to the traditional Fissival views, especially the ones that led them into conflict with any force except for Demons.

But Ascoden knew Valeterisa. How?

Professor Pex.

The Mage Lord had a residence in Fissival that was quite large and quite magical. He invited Valeterisa and Montressa into it with Vors and a few guests to come. It was mostly empty, because of his long absence, and as Drakes loved to say, they had no [Servants].

Just employees who did the same job. And who were sometimes entire families who had a history of working the same non-servile job.

Professor Pex?

That was what they called him, for a while. Not his nickname?

Professor Pexalix is what we called him.

Valeterisa seemed uncertain if she found the nickname offensive or not. Ascoden drained a cup of purified water. He motioned, and a flying familiar offered a decanter to Montressa and Valeterisa.

His home was exceptionallymagic-techy. Every rooms walls looked oddly plain until Montressa realized that was because they were smooth and only had the semblance of wallpaper or rich wood. The interiors were richly decorated, but at any given time, the walls could turn transparent or vanish, such that a suite of many rooms became one, giant and interconnected.

It was fascinatingand sounded like a completely uncomfortable place to live in. Ascoden clearly agreed, because he only turned the walls off for guests.

Some [Architect] decided a mansion full of magic walls was the thing to do. The last Mage Lady died in here. No one found her body because it was closed off. Guess who found it when he was touring the real estate?

He held up a claw. Montressa shuddered, and Ascoden smiled.

The bright side was, I got this entire place dirt-cheap. But Im not often at home. As one of Fissivals actual combat-ready Mage Lords, they have me on interesting assignments everywhere. Like breaking a bunch of Earthers out of Wistram. I thought it was a suicide mission, and after eating a punch from Cognita Truestoneor rather, a Golem she was controlling, I know it was a suicide mission. If it wasnt for Archmage Amerys and Gazi Pathseeker causing havoc, wed have never made it out. Even with Depth Magus Doroumata.

You fought Cognita?

Montressa was awed. Ascoden motioned the familiar away as Valeterisa sipped from her cup.

Fought is generous. She was somehowtaking over Golems remotely. Which no, I didnt know she could do and wasnt in any of our records about her. She still tore through every [Mage] she came across, proxies or no. I watched her shred through half my barriers and ran, screaming. I think she let me go out of pity.

Youre exaggerating. You have more magical competence than most [Mages] in Wistram on the Council.

Valeterisa was more direct, and Ascoden smiled tightly.

Thats gratifying to hear. Fissival hasnt fallen that far behind. But Im behind you in as many levels as years, I suspect, Archmage.

That was surprising to Montressa. She knew Valeterisa was Level 52, but Ascoden was Level 48.

Level 48, after surviving the breakout. Hugely gratifying. Theyre already planning my 50th, whenever that is. But Level 48 and Level 50 are worlds apart. Its easier to get from Level 40 to Level 46 than it is to gain one level for a capstone.

This was all true, but it was still only three levels. Yet Ascoden was purely admiring.

Even without the level difference[Mages] are among the slowest-levelling classes past Level 50. Thats true of everyone since its exponentially harder, but Archmage Valeterisa is still far more capable than I am in magic without having the levels to show for it.

And why is that?

Montressa saw Valeterisa shift, seeming embarrassed by the compliment. She replied in a low voice, cheeks slightly flushed.

Consider deeds. Like Professor Pexalix would saythe size of the rock matters. Or if you lift one at all.

Montressa raised her brows, and General Vors sighed.

I knew I should have taken his class. Now, can someone explain what the hell that means?

Ascoden smiled.

[Warriors] level by fighting. The dicier the situation, the more levels. You can reliably level in many classes from [Strategist] to most fighting ones by surviving, say, an Adult Creler. But a [Mage]? We gain some experience from fighting, but thats not magic. To level as a [Mage]

Perform great magic.

Montressa sighed. It all made sense. Valeterisa chimed in.

It is also harder to work such great magics. It would be akin to a warrior scaling a mountain. Most spells cannot, in one cast, tax a Level 50 [Mage].

Thats just a lack of our spellcasting knowledge. Which is why I admire and am a proponent of anyone who can discover or create new spells. Like Archmage Valeterisa. Professor Pex referenced you, and I looked up your history. You have a few fans among the students.

For what?

Valeterisa looked blank, and Ascoden chuckled.

For graduating in four years? For winning countless duels and even knocking Dragial down? For being the Human who did all this, not a Drake? Becoming the Archmage of Izril didnt hurt either. You created [Valeterisas Complex Seeker Projectiles]. It was the hardest Tier 4 spell I have ever learntharder than most Tier 5 spells, and even some Tier 6 spells. I leveled twice the night I learnt it, and I admired the ideas that went into the magic.

Valeterisa was lost for words. General Vors rubbed at his chin.

Valeterisasof course. Practically impossible and impractical to use in a battlefield, but it has real application in tight confines against [Rogues] or at range.

He gave Valeterisa another look, and Ascoden nodded. As he leaned over, another familiar rushed by with a dustrag. His werent shadowy, but bright, luminescent.

Arcane Familiars. I had no idea anyone else had mastered [Familiar]-summoning.

I was Professor Pexs finest student. In my year.

Montressa blinked at Valeterisa.

Professor Pexalix knows familiar-summoning?

Did you think I taught myself the subject? It is why he teaches his philosophy and other courses. And why he can talk to me without being removed.

Ascoden nodded. He drained another cup of water and handed it to a familiar to carry off. Unfortunately, the crystal glass was either heavy or slippery, and the familiar dropped it with a crash. Sighing, Ascoden pointed a claw.

[Repair]. Theyre useful, but inept.

That is why I have Shadow Familiars. They can stick to their objects.

Really? I should have done that. Mine just glow and do interesting tricks with mana. Now, Archmage Valeterisawhat possessed you to apply for a Mage Lady position? I advise you, frankly, to withdraw your application, leave Fissival, and never come back.

General Vors blinked. Montressa glanced up as Valeterisa frowned.

Is that a threat?

No. A genuinely concerned statement. Fissival doesnt deserve you. It may need [Mages] like you, but it will never be grateful. Wistram was in the midst of an upheaval when I left; that Eldavin and your return shook up the old corruption. I envied them, frankly, because Fissival is not better. Dragial is dead, and his son is already being put in his fathers place. Hes even studying summoning magic, and hes better at spellcraft than his father was.

Hm. But he is not all of Fissival.

No.

Both Vors and Ascoden chorused at once. The General uncrossed his arms.

I have to object, Mage Lord Ascoden. With respectwe need Archmage Valeterisa if shes willing to stay in Fissival. The City of Magic can offer her a lot, and we are falling behind Wistram with Archmage Eldavin returning to power.

And whose fault is that? Incidentally, Archmage, Miss Montressa, I will swear on any truth spell you want that I had no idea about Fissivals conspiracy with the Plains Eye tribe. I dont think General Vors did, either.

The Drake instantly shook his head.

Not I. Im now trying to think if I ever heard references to itbut [Generals] are still below the highest level of Fissivals authority. The Threeand a handful of [Mage Lords], [Generals], and yes, even Professor Worpell might conceivably have known.

Montressa blinked, recalling the teacher.

Really?

She was that important? Ascoden just shook his head. He produced a handkerchief and spat into it, then seemed so aghast he gave it to another familiar to be cleaned.

And thats why Archmage Valeterisa will have daggers at her back if she stays, Vors.

But we need her.

The [General] insisted. He turned to Valeterisa as Ascoden raised his brows. Vors gestured passionately at the view of the Scholarium in the distance.

Yonder lies the Scholarium, our teleportation grid used to hurt the Gnollshave you seen it, Valeterisa, Ascoden? It lies below the Draconae Scholarium proper.

Valeterisa nodded.

I know.

Vors studied the academy.

We have great teachers. Better than Wistram, I would dare say. They dont often make great legendsbut so what? The foundation is fine. After the revelations about Doombearers and the Plains Eye conspiracy? Our next generation, arriving in the coming months and years, should be Gnolls. Gnolls, a continents worth of them! They should be students of Fissival and go on to make Izril stronger. But they wont come because we were part of their betrayal. We will never mend those rifts. Not unless we can prove Fissival is changing. And no Gnoll will trust our voice. But they might trust a Mage Lady of Fissival.

He turned to Valeterisa, and Ascoden sighed.

I hate it when people make sense. I see that pointalthough if you think more than a handful of Gnolls would trust that, Ill sell you this mansion, Vors.

A handful is better than none. An Archmage is better than no one. If it is Valeterisas will, I will support her and drag as many Drakes whove been to Rhir into voting with me as I can.

Vors turned to Valeterisa, and the Archmage sat there. So quietly, thinking. She stared at the Scholarium and murmured.

If they will have meGeneral Sserys asked if I would fight for Izril. His ghost.

Both Drakes went quiet, and Montressa felt another chill run down her spine. Valeterisa went on quietly.

What do I have to do to win Fissivals favor? Even if it isnt the Scholarium.

Ascoden had been about to break open an expensive bottle of Amentus wine, but he sighed and left it corked.

No time for drinks. If you want to windo it publicly. Prove your magic is better than theirs. Looks like Im not done with duels. But are you sure were worth it, Archmage?

He focused on her, serious, and Valeterisa exhaled slowly. She looked at Fissival and nodded.

I came back home to show them my magic. Whatever they decidelet them see it.

The Scholarium said the exact same thing that evening. If Archmage Valeterisa wanted to become the first non-Drake [Mage Lady] in an age, if she wanted to claim her magic was so advanced the City of Magic needed it

Let her prove it.

It was like some task of old. Some ancient fable, a Herculean myth where Valeterisa had to perform incredible tasks of magic.

The only problem wasthe game was rigged. It always was. This was a contest of popularity, and as citizens of Fissival and students followed Valeterisas war with the Scholariums Drakes, Montressa realized the greatest problem.

Valeterisa had no stage presence.

He aimed it at the nearest guard tower, seeming small, barely in sight. Then Milaw turned white. He looked around, and then word began coming in from the edges of the city.

For if the Scholarium, in the center, couldnt detect what was happeningthe guards on the walls, the citizens at the edges of the city, and especially the Drakes gawking up at the City of Magic saw it.

Fissival was flying.

They were only actually fifty feet up. Montressa was exaggerating, because they were so much higher than she could have imagined.

Only fifty feet into the air. A young Drake woman of about fifteen years of age peered over the edge of the City of Magic and saw the [Guard Captain] staring straight up at her. She gasped, stood, and nearly fell.

Someone hauled her back, and at this point, the Watch began urging citizens to stand back from the exposed citys edges. Yeteven they couldnt stop themselves from gaping.

Fissival was flying. Drakes were screaming to their relatives, sending [Message] spells to friends and neighbors in other cities and demanding they check the scrying orbs or spells.

Fissival is flying!

And theyd get a response like, yeah, yeah, Fissival flies, Ive seen it before, good for Fissival. Whats this really about?

Then the disbelief would change to incredulity. The first [Scrying] spells captured the City of Magic leaving the groundslowly.

Slowly. Painfully. At first, the audience had no idea why Archmage Eldavin himself interrupted Drassis broadcast about equal pay for female Drakes and cut to an image of the City of Fissivals network.

Thenthey began to pick up on what was happening. Yetoh

It was hard. Harder than shed thought, and she had tried to calculate how much Fissival weighed.

She didnt have to struggle with that element of the city, thankfully. It was floating, which suggested it was a net-zero weight. But as the Earthers who knew more advanced physics could have told her, even if something of Fissivals size weighed nothing, shifting it and displacing all that air?

Let alone moving it? The first fifteen feet were easy. That was because of her spells.

Sixteen [Earthen Bulwarks] of reinforced stone, grey and tough enough to withstand direct hits from [Lightning Bolt] spells, rose and pushed the Walled City of Magic from below. At equidistant positions, they rose simultaneously, pushing the city higher like fingers pressing it up. As one might hold a bowl with a sixteen-digit hand.

Thatwasnt bad. They were just spells, and even if shed had to time them and anchor each one, they were only Tier 4 spells. Enhanced for radius and strength.

But the city began to rise, and she knew it would work. Fifteen feet was easy, but then Valeterisa knew that she needed another method to raise the city of magic. Which begged the questionhow?

Even the highest-level [Warrior] in the world was only as strong as his reach. And only half-Giants would have been able to reach the City of Magic once it had cleared fifteen feet of ground. The earthen spires kept rising, but they began to crack.

[Pillar of Obsidian].

A central spire rose directly underneath Fissivals base as Archmage Valeterisa flew around, stopping the cracking spires and continuing to lift the city. Could they feel it yet? Most wouldnt notice. The flying Archmage saw the city continuing to rise and tried to guess how high she could raise it with the mechanical advantages of geomancy alone.

Fifty feet? Sixty? The higher the spires extended, the more fragile they became and the wider their bases would need to be. There was a diminishing cost, and so she prepared herself. As soon as the base of the City of Magic cleared the divot in the earth, the smooth basin of dirt it had rested in so longshe would fly under it.

Something caught her attention. Dirt and debris were cascading down from the City of Magics underside, even root systems that had clung to the base of the Walled City of Magic. This least-defensible Walled City had never been impressive with its short walls. Even the Antinium had come close to attacking it.

YetValeterisa had long wondered why Fissival, of all the cities, had such shoddy defenses. Her answers had come in the history books and studying its defensive protections: the city could project a dome to cover the entire City of Magic at need. She had wondered why. A dome was not as efficient as Pallass more pyramid-shaped [Cage of Pallass] spell, which could stop entire armies attacking.

That had led her to understand where the Walled City of Magic was supposed to be. Walls? Walls were for cities that feared conventional attacks. Walls were no good against foes with wings. And Fissivalhad never been on the ground during wars.

For the first time in an age, someone glimpsed the Walled City of Magic as it truly was. As dirt fell away from the rounded underside of the City of Magic, Valeterisa saw something staring at her.

It was a Dragon.

Not a real one, obviously, but a mural. Raised stone, colored, but so old it had worn away. A Dragon, one of the long ones with a flowing mane like water and twin whiskers, was twined around the basin of the City of Magic. Riding upon its back were Drakes, even some Gnolls. It was chasing or flying with another Dragon that Valeterisa associated with storybooks, the Dragons scalesher scales?glowing a faded white as she blew frost breath across a series of cities in the distance.

Crests. Cities. Valeterisas eyes widened and she spoke.

Memorize this. [Capture Image]. Capture

She flew in a circle, eying the Walled Cities, ancient crests. Some she recognized, like Pallass. Othersothers were gone. One had even been removed, visibly chiseled away from the rock face. The Dragons flew over tiny Drakes, building higher, learning magic from their Ancestors, until some stood upon a newly-built City of Magic. The greatest [Mages]

And still the city rose. Now, Valeterisa sensed the [Pillar of Obsidian] faltering. Twenty-five feet while she watched? Barely enough spaceand she was aware she might not have the strength.

But she had to try. This was alreadyalready

This wasnt enough. Magic should be more. So Valeterisa dove and noticed that each eye of the Dragon and some of the murals had glassy orbs. Spells? Placed to do what? Rain fire or help the city levitate?

They were dead and dark. But they watched her as the daughter of Fissival flew down. Valeterisa gazed up at a second sky and got a bit of dirt in her eye.

Ow.

The City of Fissival was almost as dirty from beneath as Montressa thought her underwear was. ButValeterisa put her hands on the stone.

How to lift something like this? A puzzle. [High-Speed Flight].

She upgraded the spell to a level she didnt dare fly normallyeven with barrier spells, she could and nearly had killed herself. But if she pushed

[Stoneskin]. [Body of Diamond].

She became the lever that moved mountains. And the lever could not break. Her arms began to scream, but the spells reinforced her, and the city

Didnt move. Of course it didnt. How did you lift a rock? Valeterisa hadnt enough force in her.

Lift a rock, lift a rock

Her eyes alit on the rubble below her. Then Valeterisa blinked.

Rocks. Professor Pexalix. She swooped down as the city deadlocked twenty-five feet up. Then the first stone rose with the Archmage of Izril.

[Levitation]. No[Reverse Gravity]!

Far better. Of course! Her thoughts were straining, trying to balance flight with the spells she had to maintainValeterisa began casting the spell again, then realized the rocks were trying to tumble around the dome, fly into the sky.

[Sticky Webs].

She anchored them to the underside of the City of Magic. This was pushingpushing the boundaries of anything she had considered. She was not Xrn, the Small Queen. Yet look.

The city was still rising. Now, the [Earthen Bulwarks] were reaching the limits of their usefulness, so Valeterisa halted them, and they fell to the ground, breaking. The obsidian spire collapsed, and then it was just her and the city, floating as more rocks stuck to it. Howevernow it was like Montressas battle.

Mana. She had to maintain the [Reverse Gravity] spell on every single boulder. The larger they were, the more mana they cost.

I cannotkeep enchanting stones.

The city was slowly moving up. Inch by inch. Not fast. Why was it so hard? Maybe she didnt understand the physics. She thought she had overcome the weight limit, so every extra stone should move the city faster, but it resisted her.

Valeterisa pushed with her own arms, and Fissival kept rising. She felt the mana burning out of her veins. Now it was forty-five feet in the air.

Higher. She gazed upwards and then looked around. Valeterisa wondered what they saw.

Show them magic. She only wished she had more of it in her veins. The first mana potion touched her lips as a single Shadow Familier held it up for her to gulp.

Higher.

They rose so slowly, but when Montressa reached a place where she could look out over the edge of the City of Magic, they were rising.

The Scholarium was in chaos. Students leapt out of classrooms, running, or grabbed scrying orbs.

They were flying! But every inch took almost a minute. Something was wrong.

Its too heavy. Were sinking! She cant lift it alone! The mana cost

Ascoden was trying to imagine how Valeterisa was managing it! General Vors gaped around as Montressa just stared into the distance. It was almost midday, and she could see so much of Izril. But Vors heard Hexa muttering into a speaking stone.

keep the stabilization spells

He turned, but the Supreme General was already hurrying away to find the others of Fissivals Three. The [General] saw citizens gaping outbut thenalready

The Walled City began sinking. He felt it as the sudden feeling of going up reversed. Slowly, the City of Magic sunk an inch. Then a foot. Then

The Archmage of Izril appeared. She flew up back towards the Scholarium, wobbling, and the city held as she burned her mana, keeping it aloft. A crowd surrounded her as she dropped, and Vors knew, at once, Valeterisa had pushed too far.

Her face was not pale or whiteit was gray. She was gasping for air as her body tried to recover some of the energy it felt leaving. But it was magic, not anything else. She almost fell to her hands and knees, but Montressa caught her.

Archmage!

I cannot make it fly higher. Too much downwards pressure. Its not enough.

Valeterisa was whispering. The students and teachers of the Scholarium watched her, listening.

Not enough. Her head rose, and sweat ran down her face. Vors saw the scrying spells focus on her, and then someone spoke.

How he had the ribs left to draw breath, the [General] didnt know. How he had the gall to speakhe beggared belief.

For Dorigal spoke, leaning on Mage Lady Soorals arm.

Fifty feet.

Every head turned to him. The son of Dragial pointed a claw at Valeterisa. He spoke, his voice carrying.

Fifty feet. That is all the Archmage of Izril can show us. It is more than I can do. But some day, I swear to you all. I will see Fissival fly beyond the clouds.

He gave her a long, frustrated look. And almostVors almost tossed him over the edge of the plaza, but the boy did look at her with the barest glimmer of respect.

It was more than his teachers. Valeterisas head lowered, and their descent began to pick up. Ascoden reached for his mana potion.

If we could link

His voice was frustrated, and it belied his realization that even if he, Vors, and Montressa linked, they probably wouldnt give Valeterisa more thanwhat, five more minutes? She had already, clearly, gone through a number of mana potions.

Montressa was already giving Valeterisa some magic. She heard Valeterisa whispering.

I dont understand how to lift it. I justtried. No data, no studies. How do you lift something that high? Stones. Professor

She glanced up as the old Drake approached. There were tears in his eyes as he beheld his student.

You have taken the first step. The rest is up to us.

He laid a trembling claw on her shoulder. More mana, but a drop in the bucket being emptied. The Archmage of Izrils head sagged, and a hand caught her arm.

Look at you. A hundred spells. It must be a hundred and youre doing it without sitting, or even help? Milaw? Milaw, come here!

Ierythe had hold of Valeterisas arm. Magic ran down her fingertips, and General Vors blinked. His mana was like a roaring torrent, reaching Valeterisa in a rush, as much as he could channel. Instead of that, he saw an old woman, a [Tailor], whose own clothes were hand-stitched and could probably last another age and be as comfortable as could be. A knitting needle stuck in her hair, holding it in a bun, a comfortable apron-skirt around her legs and woolen socks.

Just a citizen, no [Mage]. However, from her came a thin line of magic that connected her hand to Valeterisas arm as the Archmage turned. Pure, refined mana, like a shimmering thread, thinner than a vein, running into the Archmage.

Almost lossless transmission. Then a [Clockmaker] with a cap was running forwards, his mustache blown almost sideways by the wind. He joined Ierythe, and a [Butcher] followed, a Drake who linked so fast that he put a [Battlemage] to shame. A Drake flew a dozen feet, and his chair nearly brained the other [Crafters], but he was already adding his flow of mana.

The [Crafters] of Heneith Street joined in, and they were another drop in the river. YetMontressa saw the hands supporting Valeterisa, and her head rose. Her eyes closed and then focused.

A razors edge of concentration. The hazy mana leaking from her stopped, and Montressa saw, like threads, each spell connected to her refining itself, reducing the wasted magic. The Archmage exhaled, and the citys fall slowed. General Vors stood there, feeling like a new student before masters.

How had he never seen this?

But they were still sinking. In desperation, Montressa cast around. If only someone had something to teach Valeterisa! If only

Her swiveling head caught a group of young men and women. Humans, staring over the edge of Fissival. Montressa ran.

You. How can she do it?

Aah!

Eun screamed as she grabbed him, then turned. Saif, Eun, Jacques, Damla, and the other Earthers focused on Montressa.

What? Do what?

How do planes fly? How can shelift a damn city? A rock?

Eun blinked at her. Then he understood what she was asking. Saif gave Montressa a look of disbelief, then he slapped his forehead.

Airplanes? We know that! And shes never seen or heard of a rocket! Guys

Shut up and show her! Its like this. You have this

Damla was trying to sketch in the air, and Eun found a piece of parchment. They began babbling about aerodynamics, but then one mentioned a jet engine. Thena rocket engine.

Valeterisas head rose as the Earthers followed Montressa back. Even now, fighting for distance, she listened as Montressa and the Earthers surrounded her. She smiled.

Thats how.

Then her face fell. The Archmage of Izrils eyes flutteredand she raised a hand as her nose began to bleed.

Ah. Im out of mana. If only Eldavin were here. Or anyone else.

She stared up, strained, disappointed in herself, and Montressas face fell. She closed her eyes, and Eun stared around. The South Korean man knew something of what was going on, even if the magical details escaped him. He saw all the Drakes and Humans trying to fuel a leaking battery, like pouring buckets of water into a breached reservoir.

Thena beam of light illuminated the air. Eun recoiled at his first sight of the Grand Plaza of Bliss beginning to activate. He pointed at it.

What is that?

Ascoden explained briefly, sweating as he poured mana into Valeterisas shoulder. It probably wasnt even filled much, but Eun just watched it. Then he grabbed Saifs arm.

Saif. Saif. This sounds stupid. But what if she usedthe power of friendship?

He tried to explain it, but all the other ways of saying it left him, leaving only the dumbest method. But his pointing finger found the beam of light, and Saif gazed up.

No way. No way. You mean like Dragonball Z?

I never watched that.

Valeterisa peered around as Jacques covered his eyes. But then her own head rose. She looked up, and she came to the same conclusion Eun had in a moment.

Let go of me. I can try.

The others backed away, and Valeterisa slowly began to rise into the air. She flew higher, and Eun saw her streaking up. Chasing after that beam of light coming from the plaza.

Whats she? I see. Get to Bliss Plaza, now!

Vors roared. The Scholarium focused on him, thenMilaw began to run, and Eun saw more Drakes and students and citizens following. But a hand touched his shoulder. He turned and met two bright orange eyes.

You have a future here, young man. We need thinkers like you.

Professor Pexalix told him solemnly. Slowly, his and Euns heads rose. They saw a single figure streaking into the air.

Valeterisas hair streamed behind her as she shot higher, so fast she left the running people far below. She was racing, trying to reach the Grand Plaza before the magic ritual unleashed.

She flew into a glowing beam of pink light turning to viridian at the center. There were only a few Drakes and Humans below, and they stared up as the Archmage of Izril closed her eyes. Then Valeterisa spoke.

[Absorb Mana].

She reached outand stole the Grand Rituals spell. Drakes standing on rooftops, citizens peering out at their floating city, saw the Archmage of Izril floating in the air.

Its her.

A family peered up at Valeterisa. Thentheir mother pushed them.

Go downstairs, now.

Shes not going to kill us, Mom

No, the plaza! Get to the plaza.

The idea caught hold like a bolt of lightning falling among pieces of metal on the ground. Drakes looked up and realized what Valeterisa needed. It might not have been the power of friendship as they streamed into the plaza and the gentle drain on mana began taking from thousandsbut another beam shot up into the air as someone manually activated the Grand Plaza of Strength. Valeterisa turned to it and saw another beam shoot up, bright ochre. She closed her eyes.

Maybe it wasnt friendship or even liking her. Maybe they just really wanted to see what she could show them. Maybe they wanted to see

Magic.

She would try to answer them, then. Valeterisa flew across the City of Magic and began to cast a new spell. She took the mana floating up from the Grand Plazas and dove.

They were barely thirty feet above the earth now, and if the City of Magic sank further, she might well be crushed to death, unable to teleport in Fissivals contained network.

YetValeterisa had an idea. A theory, born of Earths knowledge. Fire. Fire and air. There was nothing gentle about it, no [Levitation] or [Reverse Gravity]but sometimes magic was fire and science.

The Archmage of Izril dove for that narrowing gap between earth and sky, and realizedshe was too late.

Someone had beaten her to the center of the City of Magics base. His wings cascaded around him, turning to clouds, and his scales flashed with iridescent cream turning to a golden sunrise. His eyes were gleaming with pride.

The Djinni of the Great Library, Heorth, was carrying the City of Fissival as he slowed its fall. Just like that statue in the plaza. Valeterisa stopped a moment, and he spoke.

In the Age of Reckoning, when they first bound me to the library and the Gnolls reemerged from far below, six young Dragons would lift this city into the sky. The lazy ones called me to help. They did it with wings. A full Dragon could do it without help. Valeterisa. Show me what an Archmage of this era can do.

His eyes glowed brighter, and Valeterisa exhaled. She saw the city sink another inch and placed her hand on the City of Magics base. But she did not heave nor pushshe was no Magus Grimalkin.

Nor could even he do this. Valeterisas own eyes began to glow. The Djinni, Heorth, felt the winds pick up.

He was a being of Clouds-Knowledge-Magic. At his heart, in his very inception lay the synergy of essence to manage the Great Library. He had seen this magic before, and his pointed teeth flashed as he laughed.

[Directed Spell: Windstorm of Karaz].

The first spell that Valeterisa cast blasted so much dirt into the air that the Drakes closest to the edges of Fissival saw it rise like a wall of dirt. It wasnt enough, of course. Valeterisa bound the spell, aiming it straight down as Heorth bought her time.

Whatcan you show me?

I have toremove the limiter on the spell. [Mages] suffer no backwash of spells. But I have to inflict it on us.

Valeterisas lips moved as the Djinni whispered to her. She pointed down, then touched his arm.

[Greater Fire Resistance]. But I cant cast it on you

Mundane flames wont harm me. Do it.

Valeterisa pointed her wand down as the ground closed in.

Then[Empowered Spell: Flame Jet]. [Whiteflame Jet].

The first wave of fire blasted downwards, and the heat baked the dirt. Then it turned white, and the Djinni felt the first sear of flame on his body. But he grinnedbecause the roaring wind stoked the fire. And it grew warm.

Thermals were rising across the City of Magic. Flame and dirt and smokebut the air magic the Archmage of Izril was casting was intensifying.

After all, hot air rose. Birds floated on thermals from warm areas, and it could, perhaps, even propel larger beings into the air.

Maybe even a city. Now, [Earthen Spires] were trying to push the City of Magic higher along with the increasing jets of flames and air currents.

It should be working. It shouldfor a city of one solid mass like Fissival? Even if it wasnt perfectly aerodynamic, so much force was pushing upwards and it had no weightwhy wasnt it flying?

[Ritualist] Kories knew the answer. He sat in the Teleportarium, watching an image of the Archmage of Izril. His supervisor, who was sniffing one robe and wondering why it stankwas growling.

Our gravity stabilization spells are fighting, General Hexa! We cant pour any more into the spell.

Were flying.

Kories spoke quietly, and the rest of the team below glanced at him. None of them had been allowed to see it with their own eyes, but they had felt it, seen the news coverage. She was on Wistram News Network, and they were flyingbut there were spells anchoring Fissival to the ground that were now fighting the Archmage of Izril.

Fighting Fissival. Its citizens were pouring magic into the Archmages spells, and here he was. The [Supervisor] snapped at him.

This city only flies when it wants to! Keep an eye on the Teleportarium!

The [Ritualist] opened his mouththen he stared at the magicore network that showed the cities nearby Fissival. It was a small, broken part of the continent. But what had astounded the few Drakes allowed down here was

This map was one of the most complete in the world. For it showed the new lands of Izril in perfect detail. It only looked a bit like a butt. The network had reconfigured itself in the days after the Meeting of Tribes. Yetonly the Walled City of Gems, Salazsar, and a tiny circle of lights indicated places where the Teleportariums power could reach.

No wonder Fissival had sacrificed the network in the Great Plains. Kories studied the map as he watched Valeterisa fighting, refusing to give in. As his [Supervisor] stomped past him to speak to General Hexa more privately, he nudged Kories.

Pretty hard, because the young Drake slammed forwards with a cry of pain. The rest of the team peered at him as the [Supervisor] backed up.

What? Whatsorry, General Hexa, just a klutz. Kories, pick yourself up andoh Ancestors.

The [Ritualist] pushed himself up and then noticed his claws. He stared at something on his claws. It wasa little jade key. Multicolored, from the green everyone thought of to a pearly white. It had been inserted in a little socket at the magical panel he had been sitting at. Right now, it was attached to his thumb-claw. Hed accidentally pulled it out.

Put it back! Put it back

The [Supervisor] began freaking out. But it was no good. The key was part of a magical link. When the link was severed, you had to restart everything. You couldnt just jam it back in. Of course, it was supposed to be locked, but the [Supervisor] must have forgotten to turn it in all the excitement.

Supervisor Linnej. Report! What is going on?

Supreme General Hexa was shouting, and Linnej was frozen in place as the entire panel went dark. Kories helpfully answered for him.

Erthe gravitation spells, Supreme General? They just went offline.

He didnt wait for a reply, but ran for the upstairs. And as he didhe felt the ground suddenly lurch beneath him, and his stomach dropped for a second before it got used to the acceleration. He was laughing as, delayed in the scrying orb

Fissival began to rise.

They were flying. Not by inches, not by feet, but up, faster, faster. Valeterisa knew that whatever force had been fighting her was gone. She climbed with Heorth, and he grinned at her.

Go and see. Just go and see.

Flames and wind blew down in a hurricane below, a pillar of flame. A copy ofanother world. The Archmage of Izril flew out of that world of heat and air, and she saw the wind rising.

Leaves and grass floating upwards. It carried her up. She floated upwards alongside the rising City of Magic. This timewhen she rose, she saw a sea of Drakes, scales of every color, staring at her. Staring as they rose into the air.

A hundred feet. Two hundred. Valeterisa flew higher, the mana of an entire city running through her. It was in her veins. But she almost didnt feel it or the triumph.

She was gazing down at the City of Magic. And they were looking right back at her. Valeterisa gazed down through familiar streets she had run through as a girl. Thenher gaze picked out a single, tiny figure, frozen in place.

A little boy with dirty brown hair, no more than maybe five years of age, was gaping up at the Archmage of Izril. He had a wand in his hand that was fit for a child. Maybe he could cast spells with it; maybe not. He had robes cut short so he wouldnt trip on them, and his round cheeks were slack.

He was gaping straight up at her as she flew overhead. The Archmage of Izril gazed down at him, and it was unclear who seemed more stupefied. Then she flew past him, glowing like a second sun of magic.

The City of Magic began to slow when it reached six hundred feet. But it was still climbing. Valeterisa didnt know if it were her waning magical control or Heorth slowing it down. She knew from experience it grew harder to breathe the higher you went.

A thousand feet. That was more than enough. Her body was revolting against every second that it was chaining so many spells together; the mana she was conduit for was scorching her.

But Valeterisa closed her eyes as Fissival floated. The city looked out across Izril, and then

Then, they saw. The students, the teachers, the citizens

And the other cities.

The Teleportarium was in chaos. Supervisor Linnej had fled, and there was no point restoring the gravitational spells. The city was flying in Valeterisas hands.

So why was [Transporter Chief] Istrix here? He couldnt have said why. He had looked out across the continent of Izril, and something had pulled him down here.

He stood in the map room of Izril and stared at the cities that pulsed when they wanted to send him something. He had long since stopped marvelinguntil the new lands had appeared and Fissival had sent dozens of experts to confirm that this was legitimate and sell copies to the other Walled Cities.

Even now, the Teleportarium surprised Istrix. But he had forgottennot all those surprises were bad.

Right now, the Drake was the only person seeing what was happening to the map. The glowing dots of the cities illuminated by Fissivals Teleportarium network wereexpanding.

Slowly. As the city rose, the bubble widened with increasing speed, and Istrixs stunned eyes saw cities that hadnt been part of the network for hundreds of years, thousands, beginning to glow. He didnt understanduntil he thought of the spell.

The spell. What if altitude? Like someone trying to draw a straight line to the City of Fissival? It would be impossible unless the Walled City of Magic were in the right place.

Like a thousand feet straight up in the air. He saw shining lights appear and felt so weak at the knees he sat down.

Zeres?

Walled Admiral Asale worked in his section of Zeres as the Admiral of Supply, the Quartermaster of the Fleet. He had traditional office spaces accorded to him, although he hadnt understood why until he studied old maps of Zeres.

This was the spot where Zeres had used to receive shipments that didnt come in via harbor. But that was ages ago. Even sothe rooms that held so many goods were still used for that same purpose, even if no one sent anything anymore.

He was also watching the scrying orb showing Fissival along with the rest of the continent. So that was why, when he saw and felt the flash of magic running through the entire room behind him, he didnt run screaming. Drakes and Gnolls streamed out of the storerooms where magical lines long buried flashed to life. Admiral Asale slowly reached for a cup of coffee and sipped at it.

Someone find the Serpentine Matriarch. Check that. We might only have a few minutes. Ask them if they can send me a bunch of those sunrise mangos. I love those.

The Walled Cities were aflame with [Messages]. In each city, rooms had begun lighting up. Some were still used for the same purpose

In another, Watch Captain Venim freaked out as the Watch Barracks began to glow. He ordered a complete evacuation as Grand Strategist Chaldion himself came to look. The Grand Strategist stared at the rooms that could send things orpeople and muttered.

The Defense of Manus, Antinium Wars. Zeres Battle of Gorgons, Naga Incursions. Someone make a list.

Sir?

A junior [Tactician] looked up as the Grand Strategist leaned on a cane. Chaldion glanced over.

Make a list of every single encirclement or siege of a Walled City that isnt Fissival since its Teleportarium network began failing. Make me three copies.

One for?

The Gnoll saw Chaldion remove his fake eye and rub at his eye socket.

Each of Fissivals Three. Which I will ram up their worthless behinds with my cane. There has to be a reason they stopped.

Well, yes. I doubt they get much foot traffic up there.

Venim panted. He stared at the floating city in the scrying orb, already beginning to drift downwards. Slowly. Held aloft by a Djinni and a storm of winds. And the Archmage of Izril. Chaldion nodded slowly.

Yes. If they cant use the network, I suppose so. Youd need a great [Mage] to do that.

He stared long at Valeterisa. Then he cursed.

A shame they got rid of this one like all the rest.

He scowled at the display, and Saliss of Lights walked past Chaldion, stared at the glowing Watch Barracks, and slapped Chaldion cheerfully on the back of the head.

Its a tradition in every city, old man. Take a good look around before you throw stones. They have a lot of high ground.

Istrix was gazing at the network of Izril when he noticed something strange. The map of Izril had always been a picture of weakening magic, of failure as Fissival could only maintain the local region.

When he saw it light uphe had thought it showed a great mistake of the ages, some lost idea. But then he realized it wasnt all incompetence and forgetfulness.

BecausePallass was active, but the steady blue light wasnt green for a ready delivery or red for a problem or telling him not to send.

It was orange.

Distinctly orange. There was no median point between blue and red. If anything, the orange-yellow color was crossed with a violet center, like someone really wanted you to tell this was not a normal status.

What the hell does that mean?

Istrix whispered. More Drakes were running downstairs, and General Vors and Mage Lord Ascoden stopped when they saw the map of Izril. Istrix just pointed.

Look. PallassHectvalthat must be Liscor. All the cities in that region. Heading downZeres is clear, but

Dozens of cities in a kind of downwards stain were all showing the same color. As if something waswrong. But what? From Liscor to Pallass, every city wasnt ready to send. Dead gods, Zeres seemed like it was ready to send fish or something, and someone was trying to load a crate of mangos in exchange for coffee.

But what was this? Then Vors whispered.

No. Forget that. Look. The north.

Every head rose, and Ascodens scales shivered. He saw no cities there. This was an old map, and the new area had been added in. Butthere were some dead lights in the north.

General Vors slowly turned, and he was no student of Magus Grimalkin. But he thought the Sinew Magus would quite have approved as Vors gave an order.

Get me all the paper in the Scholarium. Copywrite everything down.

There were even cities in the new lands. Old or new? But the map was already fading.

Fissival was sinking. Drifting downwards, unable to sustain its altitude. Maybe there was something about gravity that the levitation spells couldnt fight.

Yet the proof was more than a permanent fixture in the heavens. Every single person in the city had seen the City of Magic truly flying.

That vision could inspire. It was something to reclaim.

It was already changing the world.

For instance, [Chief Engineer] Bellien was someone whose name you probably shouldnt know. He had no expectation anyone would know his name.

[Chief Engineer] was a class. It didnt mean he was in charge of all of Pallass Engineering Guild. Good thing too, because that was a political role, and he liked his place where he was on the day-crews. It was a fine time to be alive, working on huge projects and learning new concepts ofwell, everything.

Ideas were flooding into the Engineering Guild so fast that even the best were sleepless, dreaming of new concepts. But they neededindustry. And more knowledge! And more points of reference.

Yet they had a guiding star, and Chaldion had promised more, soon. Bellien was eager to meet them.

Especially if they were easier to deal with than Troydel. The young man had given a lot of erratic lectures, and they needed someone who could start from the bottom, not tell them a Drake could fly and go from there.

He was a work in progress. For exampleBellien was hunting for a sheaf of documents. Every week, Troydel had to submit a new one, and he had achieved the Engineering Guild record for most proposals refused already.

Then again, most junior members didnt have the right to submit proposals for budgets, but it was how Troydel was learning to submit and create blueprints. Bellien had to admit hed gotten better, but that wasnt, uh, a huge first step.

Most of what Troydel wanted to make was highly, highly complex, and while some ideas were being greenlit and in progresslike copies of the bicycles and Felkhrs entire wing of support staffTroydels ideas had thus far never survived on their own merits.

It took a second for Bellien to find what he wanted, but then he pulled out a bunch of hand-illustrated images. They were pretty good, and the entire idea had been one of Troydels best, but he had personally refused to greenlight it.

The dangers of being above the earth were not unknown to Bellien. A two-floor elevator fall killed anyone but Grimalkin, or so their [Safety Consultants] loved to say. Besides thatit had been hard, even with Troydels explanations of physics, to believe.

Yes, birds and hot air and all that. But believing fire and air could lift people? Much lesswell. Bellien stared at the image of Fissival. He had seen it rise. So, calmly, he hunted for his stamp and struck the paper describing a giant cloth balloon. Normally, he demanded a miniature proof-of-concept, and Troydel had never delivered one of those. But he supposed someone else could do the work for the lad. He struck the wood stamp down.

Plan approved.

Amidst it all, she descended. Archmage Valeterisa landed in the middle of the Scholarium, and Fissivals citizens and students and [Mages] surrounded her.

This changes nothing.

Who said that? Montressa raised her foot to kick

Mage Lord Ascoden. He stared up dreamily at Valeterisa. Smiling, but sadly. She landed on the ground and eye him.

That is what I wanted to show them. I was challenged to demonstrate magic. So I have. Regardless of anything elsethat is magic.

Her eyes were alight, and she was almost smiling, but it faded as Professor Worpell and the Scholariums elite walked forwards. The Drake was not smiling. But even she looked at Valeterisa differently.

Archmage of Izril.

The whisper ran through the crowd. Valeterisa studied Worpell and waited.

Valeterisa. You are without a doubt one of the finest [Mages] living. No one can deny that after this moment. You have done what Fissival has long known it can do. You seek the magics of old, and for your accomplishments, you have been acclaimed an Archmage, a title that speaks for itself.

Worpell sounded exhausted, but Montressa didnt miss what shed said. Her eyes widened with outrage, but Valeterisa forestalled her. She simply listened.

I have not thethestrength to watch over the Scholarium. Headmaster Tierres, I leave it to you. I am tired. My great students pass, and I will not stand against Valeterisas instatement in the Scholarium.

The old Drake seemed as though she aged with every second. The [Professor] sagged, and someone, Dorigal, helped her step back. Her scales were grey, but another Drake took her place.

Montressa had never met Headmaster Tierres before, but one look told her that the second of Fissivals Three stood before her.

Magics director glanced at Valeterisa, and she blinked at him. He was as old as Worpell, and she knew him too.

Oh, Headmaster Tierres. What would you like to say?

The old Drake had gold-rimmed glasses, and unlike Worpell, he did use a magical tool to keep himself upright. But unlike Chaldion, his cane was magical and hopped; it was tall and shaped such that he could lean on it wherever he went.

Montressa could see why he didnt move around much. But he was not ignorant of Valeterisa and the debate around her. The old headmaster spoke slowly.

I still oppose it.

The Scholarium buzzed. Students were incredulous, citizens aghast. The second of Fissivals Three went on as Hexa and a female Drake that Montressa didnt know hurried forwards. Tierres went on.

Your magic is undeniable. By deed, you have won over the hearts of many, perhaps, Valeterisa. But we are a city united by magic andlove of Fissival. You have left. You are the Archmage of Wistram and the north. You could have stayed. You were always rebellious, and when you graduated, I told you that the Scholarium needed great mages. But not of your kind. I oppose itbut I cannot stop your instatement as Mage Lady of Fissival.

He turned away. Not once had he met her gaze. He gazed past Valeterisa. Then his head lowered as Montressa burst out.

Why?

She was vibrating with fury. The [Aegiscaster] met the old [Headmaster]s gaze and guessed he might be Level 40. At least. He had enough power in that gaze to be that strong, or even, perhaps, Valeterisas level, but he was faded.

What do you mean, Miss?

Why do you resent her so? She could have been your Archmage. If only youand every Drake who was around herhadnt pushed her out of the city, she might have stayed. Was it so hard to admit a Human could do magic on par with you?

Human? This has nothing to do with her species, HMiss. It was always about her attitude. She questioned, but she did it loudly. She pushed, alone, rather than worked together. She walks the loneliest of paths where magic is her only goal.

Mage Lady Sooral hissed. Montressa turned redder. She opened her mouth to reply, then Sooral hesitated. Headmaster Tierres turned his head and focused on the Archmage of Izril. Montressa turned her head up, and her face fell.

Archmage?

Milaw gazed across the crowd in concern.

Valeterisa?

She was weeping. Tears ran from Valeterisas cheeks, hot and large, and she was no graceful weeper. Nor was she even the most talented blubberer, because the tears were not a waterfall.

She just cried. Yet it was the first such tears anyone could remember seeing, even people who had known her of old. Valeterisas tears landed on the Scholariums floor, and when she did speak, her voice was choked.

He asked me to risk my life and fight for Izrils sake. For nothing but pride in being me. It was a ridiculous thing for a [Mage] who loves logic and magic to answer. But he was there, and he looked me in the eyes and asked me, from one ill-loved child to another.

Who?

Montressa knew. Valeterisas head moved back, and she stared, as she had stared at the Drake wearing Erin Solstices face once before. That burning gaze. The authority to command any army of Drakes.

General Sserys of Liscor.

Now, the crowd was wide-eyed and silent. Even Fissivals Three listened as Valeterisa cast around. At her city. Her people. Second-Class Citizen Valeterisa. Mage of the Draconae Scholarium Valeterisa.

Archmage of Izril, Valeterisa recalled the words that the [Spear of the Drakes] had said to her.

Are you a daughter of the walls? Am I a daughter of the walls? He saw meand knew me. He did not even know my name, but he saw it in me. I wanted to be. I would have been, but you did not want me.

She peered around the Scholarium. Her words fell like her tears, a soft confession. Thenthe voices of disbelief rose and silenced themselves before they could quite voice any objections.

For truth spells existed. But even if they had nota continent listened. It would be easy to disbelieve Valeterisa. But the Meeting of Tribes had seen miracles and impossible deeds. Not everyone believed. Maybe most didnt. But those that did felt it in their bones.

Wing Commander Embrias forkful of noodles finally fell into her bowl and splashed some of the hot broth into her face. Imanis attempt at ramen was growing cold in her new establishment, Barefoot Kitchens. You needed a reservation these days, and Wing Commander Embria had gotten one for the leaders of the other companies from Liscors real army.

Wing Commander Xith and Narkr sat next to Embria, open-mouthed. Narkr almost rose in outrage, her tail twitching in disbelief. Then she looked around at the silent Liscorians. They had all heard that voice, and an entire city listened.

General Sserys. She had seen Liscors army turn on Zeres and Manus. Slowly, Wing Commander Narkr sat down. She looked at Valeterisa, and those words made her scales chill without end. Not crawl, nor her stomach sink.

Daughter of the Walls. She had seen that in her very dreams. A helmeted head glancing the way of a girl born in Liscors army. A wild grin, and a voice. If you heard it, just stand up and go. That glorious [General] who had escaped even death to jump into one last fight.

I am a Daughter of the Walls. If you had called me like him, I would have come. For twenty years I waited, but not once. Not during the Antinium Wars, nor any time since have you ever needed me.

Valeterisas voice reached more than just Liscor, though it echoed throughout the entire city. A Wall Lord lowered his head and pressed his claws into his forehead.

Ilvriss, of Salazsar, wondered if he were looking at a mirror. Not of Valeterisabut of the stupid faces of the Scholarium. He saw a reflection of an older Drake, but still, his head rose, and he looked at Valeterisa. He spoke to Osthia, Nerul, and Xesci.

Her. We need her.

Ilvriss gaze followed Valeterisa along with Fetohep of Khelt, sitting upon his throne in Khelt. The kings golden flames burned brighter in their sockets, for here was an outrage to his nation. A servant, poorly served.

They were unworthy of you, Archmage.

The King of Destruction agreed. He looked at Valeterisa and turned to Amerys.

Now there is your peer, Amerys. If she had stood on Zeres walls or against the Antinium, where would we be now?

The Archmage of Chandrar turned to Valeterisa, and her gaze sparked with sympathy. But disappointment as well.

If we had met on the battlefield time and time again serving two great causes, Wistram would now be free and I would be an [Archmage] in truth.

Her eyes shone with fury for a rival lost and magic cast aside. The King of Destruction just nodded sadly.

And Rafaema of Manus looked at Valeterisa and wondered if that was how she would look in four hundred more years. She raised her claws to her face and wondered if Valeterisas tears were hot or cold.

For hers crackled with lightning, and they wouldnt stop.

No more. At least use us well. No more.

She turned away, then turned back to keep watching, like someone seeing a vision of the future. Rafaemas wings opened, and she almost flew out the window, but she waited.

Waited, because there was something else. There had to be. She looked north and then at Valeterisa.

Not her. She could not live like that. The Lightning Dragon spread her wings and roared until Manus fortress shook. She had a thousand questions to ask her kin. A thousand questions, like thunder, of how to stop this. How many had they thrown away? How many children of the walls? Rafaema turned back and watched the sorry end to this tale.

If only she had been a Dragon. They would have loved her too well.

Valeterisa had been called. And she had answered. Now, the Archmage of Izril stood in the City of Magic, weeping.

I am a citizen of Fissival. Second-Class Citizen Valeterisa. [Mage] of the Scholarium. Even if my home has never loved meI have always loved it. I always wanted the Scholarium to be a bit proud of me. Just once. I stand here, in front of you. Cant you acknowledge me? Even now?

She gazed around, and thousands of students, her people, watched her. But the eyes of the people she wanted passed over her face. As if they were afraid to linger.

Even Dorigal saw that. The [Crafters], Montressaand Valeterisa herself. Just as she had known. She hiccuped and then shook her head. Valeterisa slowly produced a handkerchief, blew into it, and stared at it.

She probably hadnt [Cleansed] it in nine years. She tucked it away and then nodded. Her voice was slowly returning to normal. And like the old memoriesMontressa heard a sigh in Valeterisas voice.

Yes. I have loved Fissival. Coming here, I have felt all the reminders of why I left. Love. Pride in my city. Exasperation. Frustration. I see what it could bebut what it is. But if General Sserys asked me a second time, I would go. Because that is what it means to be a daughter of the walls.

Ascoden closed his eyes. Montressa saw Valeterisa touch her chest slightly, and someone exhaled. Then, the Archmage of Izrils eyes opened, and that clear gaze sparkled, the only bit of magic in her. A dreamy cloud as deep as a foreign world waiting to be explored.

I have come home. It was painful, joyful, and all these other things. Now, to do what I have put off for a while. For you are right, Headmaster Tierres. Sooral. I am a [Mage] who loves only magic. It is so hard to balance that against my love of home. So

Her finger rose, and it touched the side of her head. Valeterisa whispered.

[Clear Emotions].

Montressas face slowly turned to one of dawning realization. The crowd susurrated. Did she just? Pexalix closed his eyes, but Valeterisas tears stopped.

Her expression cleared, and her back straightened. She dabbed at her face again and seemed mystified by the tears. Then she gazed around.

Thats better. Ah, now I see. I see you all, with neither love nor hatred. Headmaster Tierres, this is an optimal time. In witness of the Scholarium, I would like to submit a patent. After all, a spell need only be witnessed by three members of the Scholarium in good standing.

A patent?

The Drake seemed wary, but he could hardly refuse her. Valeterisa nodded, and Cureq spoke derisively.

If its Valeterisas Uplifting Magic, we have seen it, Archmage.

She gave him a blank look without anything more than a vague impatience.

No, this is new magic. I am casting it now. Please stand back, Montressa. Or hold me, but do one or the other.

Montressa clung to Valeterisas arm gently, gazing up at Valeterisas face. But she did not see a wreck of emotions buried by magic. Justa kind of sadness. Valeterisa had cleared her emotions, but not erased them.

She took nearly a minute to cast her spell as everyone watched. Not even Ascoden and Vors, closest to Valeterisa, could see the spell. But Montressa could. Valeterisa patted her on the head.

Stop crying, apprentice. It was a good visit. Now

Her voice echoed a bit, then popped, and Montressa stumbled slightly, though she hadnt moved. Valeterisa caught her, and she kept speaking.

its time to go.

That was all. Montressa felt nor saw anything else until she looked up. Thenshe saw Tierres white face. His scales had turned dead white. And Montressa had to crane her head to see Worpells expression. Because

She and Valeterisa were about two dozen paces left of where theyd been. The Archmage of Izril turned. A few [Students] seemed puzzled.

Thats it? Thats just [Lesser Teleport].

Cassa, one of the young students whod first seen Valeterisa, muttered. Then someone kicked her in the tail.

You idiot. You idiot.

Kadril, the older student, muttered to them. He was shaking. He pointed a claw at Valeterisa and said what had all the other members of the Scholarium speechless.

Its impossible to [Teleport] in Fissival. Even [Archmages] of old couldnt do it. Only the Teleportarium works! Only

Then his voice choked off. Valeterisa turned, and her eyes caught them all.

I submit my patent: [Network Teleport]. It makes use of existing magics. I would prefer not to scribe the exact methodology of the spell.

She stared down at her feet again, and this timeMontressa saw her tracing the Teleportarium, staring at the leylines written long ago. Valeterisa glanced up, and Headmaster Tierres was frozen in shock.

He only spoke after half a minute of dead silence. His voice wavered.

Accepted. And I want to say, Archmage Valeterisa

His eyes searched hers as Valeterisa took his clawed hand and shook it vaguely. She neither smiled nor scowled. The Archmage of Izril bowed and then nodded to Montressa.

Thank you, Headmaster. Now, I believe its time to go. Apprenticeno. Montressa. Are you fit to travel?

It took a heartbeat for the Scholarium to realize that Valeterisa was walking for the edge of the plaza. Montressa began to follow, and someone called out.

Wait. Where are you going?

North. Somewhere. Ive missed my nieces birthday for eight years. And I have other engagements. Including Wall Lord Ilvriss.

Valeterisa called out absently. Someone ran after her.

W-wait. When will you be back? We need to learn that spell.

Learn? Why?

Valeterisa turned, and Mage Lord Cureqs mouth worked.

Because its teleportation. Along Fissivals networks! We can go anywhere with it! If we restore the Teleportarium

You could go anywhere it reaches. Or build a new, self-contained grid. Yes.

So you need to teach us, Valeterisa

Why?

The Archmage of Izril stared at the Mage Lord. Slowly, she tapped her finger against her chest.

I have the patent. For economic purposes, that seemed like a very wise investment.

But you have to teach us!

Cureq shouted. Valeterisa just gazed at him.

But that would devalue my magic. And it seems to me Fissival was never the right spot. I thought about the Great Plains, butno. The High Passes.

The High Passes?

He couldnt catch on, but everyone else did. Montressa looked up, and Valeterisa spoke musingly.

There is a door, but it barely works. I wish to study magic. Together. With apprentices and [Mages] and resources. I will do it somewhere with access to north and south. Building a new teleportation network is not impossible, and the most value is in the center of Izril. Liscor, maybe. If Fissival ever figures out the spell, I will, of course, expect my patent to stand. It has been witnessed by most of the Scholarium.

Now they got it. Ascoden saw General Vors slowly sag as Hexa and dozens of other [Mages] tried to run forwards, but Valeterisa was justgoing.

Valeterisa, wait! Your positiongive us a chance to say

I heard you the first time.

She looked back once, and they froze in their tracks. The Archmage of Izril gazed about and then down at Montressa. The [Aegiscaster] closed her eyes, smiling with that same bittersweet realization as she understood. Valeterisa stood in the city she had entered humbly, without ever showing them the spells she had learned. Either of them.

The calm Archmage bowed her head to Tierres.

I have always been a fine student of Fissivals Scholarium. I learned all the lessons you had to teach, Headmaster.

Then she took off.

Mage Lord Ascoden found Valeterisa before she had left Fissival proper. He rapped at Milaws door, and Eun and the Earthers crowded in as the Archmage of Izril shed her concealment spells.

You are supposed to be chasing my illusion. What was wrong about it?

The Mage Lord shrugged.

Nothing. The Human element made me think you were here.

Ah. Thats not magic. Hence my failure.

Valeterisa stood up and embraced Ierythe. She stood amongst the last gathering of Heneith Street, their Archmage. The last in Fissival.

Not just Heneith Street. The [Butcher], a [Baker], and possibly even a [Chandler] were among the Drakes and Humans and even a Stitch-man speaking quietly to Valeterisa. She remembered them all, and she had forgotten to change her clothing or what day of the week it was.

Are you going to be okay? I have gold, I think. Sooral might be petty. I must go.

Ascoden watched as Valeterisa cast a spell, checking Ierythes health, but the old [Tailor] looked healthier than she had been in years. And she was patting Valeterisas hands, squeezing her fingers tight with a grip so strong it shocked them both.

My dear. My dear. You always had to go. We should have never let them take what they did from you, but you kept shining, even in all the mud they slung at you. Now? The entire city sees it. The only thing thats changed is

Her eyes were awash with tears. Tearsbut Milaw spoke with the same kind of terrible heaviness in Ascodens chest.

The only thing thats changed is where were supposed to be.

The Archmage of Izril had lifted the City of Magic high and dropped it. Now, everything, all the anchors and ties were coming undone. It was still hard. As hard as something you loved and hated to break. Like family or home. But the Archmage of Izril simply tapped her forehead as her eyes watered.

[Clear

Stop that.

A hand slapped down her fingers, and Valeterisa gently squeezed Ierythes shoulders. She sniffed.

But tears are so inconvenient.

They had a long time for Valeterisa to say her goodbyes to each person and cast [Restoration] the last few times she could. As she finally stepped back, the Archmage noticed Montressa trying to fend off the Earthers begging her to take them with her, name-dropping an inn. Valeterisa watched with urbane amusement, and she and Ascoden stood aside.

I cant let you have them. Although theyll be going to other Walled Cities, some. I guess I am a son of the walls. Ill have to study [Clear Emotions]. You know, if you call and the best [Crafters] of Fissival goand some students and teachers and even a rogue Mage Lord or twothe City of Magic wont allow it. It cant allow it.

Valeterisa turned, and Mage Lord Ascoden met her eyes, then stared into a vision of the future. She glanced back at Milaw and shook her head.

Why would they give it all up? Even if I asked?

Because it would be better. When that day comes, though, even if you had a Level 50 ally on your side, an entire Walled City would be holding them back.

Valeterisa was silent for a bit. Then she nodded.

If Fissival holds back its people from doing what they wish, then we never were a free city of magic, and they were never truly citizens, even Second-Class. If they doI will come against them with Salazsars armies. As the Archmage of Izril.

Mage Lord Ascoden smiled. He laughed and then held out a claw. Valeterisa took it, and his grip was light as he met her eyes.

Call. No matter if it tears out Fissivals heart and leaves it bleeding. It is a long process to fix this city or build a new one wherever you go. But call. Better to fight for our heart than lose it.

The Archmage of Izril nodded, then she turned and beckoned to her apprentice. Side-by-side, they walked out the door, and the City of Magic flew quietly behind them, low to the ground, as they flew away from it.

Valeterisa looked back several times, but when Montressa asked her how she was feeling, she just shook her head.

Im leaving again. Ive left another Valeterisa behind, and I will never know how she lived or whether she was happier. But I think this one will be fine.

And then, empty-handed, they continued on their way. But someone noticed everything that had happened. So there was a reward. There had to be. It wouldnt have been fair, otherwise. Even if magic was its own reward

For the people of levels, there was always this.

[Aegiscaster Level 34!]

[Skill Spell Reflection Barrier (Lesser) obtained]

[Skill Enraging Taunt obtained!]

[Grand Magus of Mind and Studies Level 54!]

[Spell Conjure Midnight Familiar obtained!]

[Skill My Mana Runs Thick as Blood obtained!]

[Skill Arcane Discovery (Weekly) obtained!]

What was that last one? Did that mean what it sounded like? Two people woke up in a small tent with very mixed emotions.

Valeterisa! Valeterisa, guess what? I leveled! I got a new Skill for my barriers, and

Eight years.

Hm?

Eight years ago, I reached Level 50 and consolidated my class into [Grand Magus of Mind and Studies]. I gained [Parallel Thoughts] and leveled twice that year, without Skills.

A-Archmage?

Eight years!

So the City of Magics student left it sitting on the coast and waited. Waiting for the day, once more, when she returned home.

Authors Note: This chapter is about 33,000 words. I have done some editing on the third day, but no rewrite of Volume 1. Mainly because it is my understanding I wrote about 30,000 words in two days.

On my final chapter before my break. Lets just say that its tiring and say thats an understatement.

However, I swear to you, I had plans for a more sedate, slice-of-life Valeterisa chapter. Then I realized I had two chapters instead of one and it grew ambitious.

Its not my fault. I just like writing this story. Anyways, I am going to rest and Ill come back stronger than ever. For now, the Archmage of Izril has her chapter. Everyone deserves their own chapter.

But Ive got a lot of time. Ill write your chapter for a milliontwoeight billionI dont have time to write your chapter, but I wish I did. I hope you understand Valeterisa now, and Ill see you in a bit. Wish me lots of rest! Thanks for reading.

The High Passes by Enuryn the /Enuryn_Nat