Interlude Trade and Travel

Interlude Trade and Travel

(MelasD, a fellow author and reader of The Wandering Inn, has released a webcomic for their story, Salvos! A webcomic for a web serial? Sounds like a good idea. Check it out here and give them some support!)

Foreword: I have returned.

It is a day of prophecy.

In Batmans The Dark Knight Returns, by Frank Miller, Bruce Wayne receives a vision of a bat flying through his window and that tells him to return to being Batman.

When I went to sleep, I woke up to find a huge carpenter ant crawling on me. And thus got far less sleep.

I am Antman. Also, I have not gotten optimal sleep and Im starting this without a huge amount of notes.

Nothings changed. Everythings changed. Its good to be back.

This was one of the most inevitable, inescapable tales in the world. One of the oldest. It started with a mischievous, sometimes silly, rambunctious, brave, kind, and occasionally annoying girl with a future ahead of her.

She lived in The Wandering Inn, and she had come here to make this place, these people, her new family and home. She would never forget where she had come from, but for now, here was home. And she, in this place, worked a bit of the magic she sometimes saw floating around her.

It was not Mrsha. The furry cub with a round head of white fur who had looked sometimes like a miniature wolf had grown up into a girl. In doing so, shed become less of a feral Gnoll girl unable to communicate and more of a cute kid. Shed stride around with her kilt and her fancy new wand, waving her notecards self-importantly.

She was growing fast. But she was a kid. There was still a world between her and the knowing glint in Nanette Weisharts eyes. They were both brown, but Nanettes sometimes seemed like they were staring at what could be, rather than what was. Both were shooting up in height, but Nanette was gettingstretched. Changing from the innocent, round-cheeked girl full of simple happiness to someone who had sat in the rain, a weary lost soul.

Nowshe looked like she was free of a great burden, and her hatless head hung higher. She looked like she was searching for something, and it evoked a great curiosity in how she talked. Mrsha, sometimes, blathered. She talked and talked, demanding to be heard, even if the talking was eloquent essays.

Nanette asked. She was not a full teen yet, but she was getting close. And she had no hat, it was true. But a witch was always a Witch.

Today was the day Nanette undid her pigtails. She appeared, hair bound up behind her in a ponytail like Ryokas, and Lyonette threw a fit.

Nanette! Your hair!

I thought it was a nice time for a change, Miss Lyonette. I havent changed my hair since I was a girl. Do you like it?

Nanette gave Lyonette an innocent look, and the [Princess], who had just been tugging at her own over-long hair, hesitated.

Itscertainly striking, Nanette! But that style. Its sorugged. You should really have it properly styled. Dame Ushar isnt one to use scissors, but Ser Lormel and Ser Sest both have rudimentary hair care experience. But neither is an actual [Hairdresser], and you need more than that. Not that you dont look fetching in your own way! But the entire ensemble is

Lyonettes main objection seemed to be that Nanette looked like Ryoka. She had even changed her blue robes for baggy trousers and a long-sleeved shirt, an oddly modern look.

Where did you get that clothing, Nanette?

Miss Bezale gave it to me to show off. Its from a new store in Invrisil. Worldview Fashion.

Aa new store?

Lyonette was so taken aback by all these new things that she was almost facing the other way. Nanette gave Lyonette an innocent smile.

I think she hopes it will get Miss Erins attention without bothering her.

Its gotten my attention. Nanette, my dear, I hate to criticize

Its the pants, isnt it? They feel a bit silly, but I didnt know what to wear since I always just had my robes and hair.

All the time? Your mother never told you how to dress up?

No. We wore travel clothes. Could you show me some fashion, Miss Lyonette? I do like your hair styles.

The [Princess] paused a second, and her own hair, which she brushed and took care of, unlike Erin and Mrsha, was long enough to be put in a ponytail as well. But Lyonette would have rather run to Celum and back than copy Ryokas look.

This? Oh, well. I was thinking I should do something fancier now Im not waiting the tables all the time. You know, a ribbon or some color intertwined throughout? Its a complicated look I never pulled off, but Aielef, my older sister, used to take the courts by storm with it. Not that I think it needs to be this long. Ive actually been considering a trip to Invrisil. I respect Drakes and Gnolls! But, uhnot their [Barbers].

Gnollish barbers had one technique, which was to use primitive clippers to take off too-long clumps of hair. Even Erin had decided to self-barber rather than have one of them shave her head short.

Nanettes interested look made Lyonette hurry to her calendar.

I think I could take time off. Whyyes, what about tonight? Yelroans new calendar saysI have time off. Time off? What am I going to do with these other days? More Mrsha lessons? But shes scheduled in too

Youll have to find a hobby, Miss Lyonette. Id be delighted if you helped me manage my hair and clothes. I think I could manage with what Ive been gifted, but

The young girl scuffed her foot in the second floors hallway, looking a bit lost. Lyonette had to take her hand.

Nanette, I shall absolutely do this for you. Ser Sest!

He appeared, stepping out of a room and bowing like an instant-butler-knight. Sests own immaculately trimmed mustache bobbed as he smiled.

Shall I reconnoiter fashion and any barbarism in the City of Adventurers, Princess?

Lyonette rolled her eyes at the pun.

Aha. Yes, but also take a look to Pallass for fashion.

He did a double-take at that.

Pallass, Your Highness?

We are living in a Drake city, Sest. Pallass, Invrisil, and ask Krshia if the Silverfangs have any styles for us to take a look at. But well trust hair to humanity.

I shall send Dalimont to replace me. At once, Princess Lyonette!

And he was off. But before he managed to clatter down the stairs towards the noisy inn below, where Mrsha was banging on some drums for Kevins music jam nightLyonette was notedly above, despite her love of her daughterNanette raised a shy hand.

Miss Lyonette? I hate to be a bother, but I have a teensy request. W-would it be fine for me to do something a bit interesting? I should like to pay for something fun, but I dont know if I have the coins or permission, especially because its about Miss Erins garden.

What now? Of course! If you have a project

Lyonette was envisioning a grand time, especially if she could pull someone else with hair and a need to improve their looks along. She had in mindMontressa, if the [Aegiscaster] was around. She was a [Lady]. Or perhaps Viceria, a Wistram-mage with more than a hint of her style. Or perhaps even Riverfarm? Come to itRiverfarm?

Erin and Ryoka were out. And Lyonette was only too keen to humor Nanette finding her way, so when the girl asked

Whats the project?

I should like to hire a Courier, Miss Lyonette. For ten gold coins. But I cant afford it

Ten gold coins? The number made Ser Dalimonts brows shoot up as he headed up the stairs. That wasnt a small amount of money. But for a Courierit was.

Are you sending something to a nearby city, Miss Nanette?

That was his best guess. Nanette might be able to buy Hawks services to a city not close via teleportationbut even then, that was about half-price. Honestly, it was really low for Courier-fees.

Lyonette agreed, biting her lip hesitantly.

Thats a bitsteep, Nanette. For us. For a Courier, its also cheap. You could hire a City Runner to run a hundred miles for every ten a Courier charges. Unless its to, whatEsthelm? Hawk wouldnt even think of it. And we have the door.

I know. But may I still try? I want to do something fun. The Courier might want morebut if theyre the right ones, theyll only ask ten gold.

Nanette looked excited. Lyonette chewed on her lip.

What is it?

She had no conception of how any Courier would work for nothing like that unless Nanette wanted to rely on a Courier that was friends with the inn, which wasnt something Lyonette thought was appropriate. But Nanette had a plan.

I just need ten gold pieces, please, Miss Lyonette? I already have twelve saved. And Miss Ryokas agreed to deliver the goods as close to Oteslia as she can manage and have them shipped the rest of the way.

Twelve? Wait, what are the twelve for?

Now, Lyonette was all turned around. Nanette explained patiently.

The twelve are for me to send the package overseas via normal ships and City Runners. Itll take a month or two, especially with the seas churned up. But itll be a Runners Guild delivery, and the ten gold coins will go into the Merchants Guild, so theyll pay the Courier at their destination.

I dont follow. So youre sending something overseas, and the Courier picks it up? No, I see. Youre hiring a Courier to pick up the delivery at your destination. But what is it?

I dont know. It will depend on what I get. This is what I want to ship. To Khelt. I think its fine, especially because its Khelt. Few people want to bother King Fetohep. He puts bounties on anyone who steals from him.

Nanette showed Lyonette what she wanted to send, and the [Princess] did a double-take.

I truly dont know about this, Nanette

Please? Ill ask Miss Erin, but I wanted to ask you about the money, Miss Lyonette. If its too much

Nanettes head hung, and the [Princess] looked at her attempt at reinventing her look and thought of what Nanette had really asked for so far. She put a hand over her heart

Oh, of course. Its your little experiment andwhy, of course. Yelroan has his budget, and we do have the coin. Let me just

She began to fuss about with Ser Dalimont. Nanettes head rose, and her eyes twinkled. But only Dalimont caught that, and he hesitated. The witch peeked at him, and he decided the better part of valor was not to make an enemy here.

Thusly, Nanette got her wish. And the most interesting of bounties was posted in the Runners Guild ofChandrar.

Courier wanted. 10 Gold Coins. Delivery within two months. Route free. Courier with negotiation Skills preferred. Non-priority. Non-secret.

Preferably a Sea Courier.

The request was put into the Guilds systems and languished, unclaimed, for about three and a half days.

A short amount of time for seemingly such a nebulous request. But the little witch knew how to tickle fancy. Any Courier who eyed the low priceyet it was backed by Ryoka Griffin, a Courier of Izriland saw such odd requirements would, of course, ask what the heck it was about.

In fact, two Couriers from Izril and one from Baleros expressed interest, but they were too far from Chandrar or Khelt to take it. The first Courier to pick the delivery was, in fact, a Sea Courier.

His name was Seve-Alrelious. The Hundredfriends Courier of Actelios Salash. He accepted Nanettes request instantly and informed the girl he would take itshe might get to see him in two months, or three, if that was acceptable.

She agreed, and he adjusted his course from his planned route towards his home. He stopped in the paradise of Khelt just in time for Nanettes paid delivery to get there.

This was all months ago, before the winter had even begun. This is how the old story began and a little witchs cunning plan.

This was what Nanette sent to King Fetohep of Khelt: a carefully wrapped box with air-holes and packed with water-absorbant soil that a certain Drake [Druid] had helped her make.

It contained a single, slightly battered yellow flower. Yellow as a coin of gold, which the oblivious Couriers and [Captains] shipped overseas without realizing the value of.

A faeries flower.

It sat in the palm of King Fetohep of Khelt, Eternal King of Khelt, Protector of Jecrass, King of the Rising Sands, His Majesty of Undying Will, and so onas his golden eyes winked with amusement and indulgence at the little witchs plan.

But he played along. He read the note out with urbane amusement to Pewerthe, his potter.

Observe, Pewerthe, a childs cunning like your own. I correct myself; a young witchs cunning. They are talented as any [Bard] in the art of words. Perhaps more because they bargain thusly, not just flatter and entertain. I have wondered if one would be a match for your tongue.

He turned his head, and the flush upon Pewerthes own dusky cheeks made her duck her head.

I am not silver-tongued, Your Majesty. Nor have I heard of the cunning of [Witches].

No? Then perhaps I say, all witches in error. I should give this one more credit. The few still upon Chandrars soil have not impressed me overmuch within my short span of ruling Khelt. Records show the cunning ones did dance upon the sands. The Witch of Waves made a great pact with Serept

Because she loved her king, and he was teaching her how to rule if no one replaced her, Pewerthe often listened to King Fetoheps tales of past monarchs. But because her feet hurt and she didnt want to stand for two hours, or even sit, she ducked her head.

Your Majesty, the seedling might need water and planting. It is ephemeraland one-of-a-kind outside of the inn and Oteslia, I understand.

Fetohep hesitated. His glowing gaze swung to the plant, and he noted its somewhat bedraggled form from being in the box so long.

Ah, yes. I forget how frail flowers can be. They bloom in moments and fade so quickly. Rather like trees. One cannot but scatter seeds without suddenly having a forest sprout behind them.

So said the monarch who forgot how years worked, sometimes. He quickly rang a bell, and a servant raced forwards. Fetohep leaned forwards.

Summon Farmer Colovt. Summon to me any [Druids] in our capital and the royal gardener. I have a seedling that must not die.

Pewerthe exhaled in relief as Fetohep held the precious gift aloft. He was distracted by the novelty of the Faerie Flower that Nanette had sent. He didnt want it for the alchemical value or the wonders it could create.

Oh, no. He wanted it because no one else had it, aside from a few gardens in Oteslia and The Wandering Inn. Few things made Fetohep happier than, in a decades time, taking a foreign dignitary for a stroll in his garden and having them pass by ten thousand Faerie Flowers in bloom while the world was squabbling over owning a dozen.

In that way, though, Pewerthe was rather skilled herself, because the [Potter] didnt have to listen to a four-hour tale about the Witch of Waves and King Serept. Indeed, she even received the missive that Nanette had sent with her flower gift. Her eyebrows roseand she smiled so hugely when she read the polite note that Fetohep turned from exhorting his servants to find him a suitable pot.

Ah. You see?

Its very clever.

Too clever, perhaps. I am minded to play the same trickor just perhaps to answer Nanette with the spirit of her message. I shall deliberate. Unless you have a thought?

Pewerthes smile grew wider. She read the note, which Nanette had addressed to Fetohep.

Your Eternal Majesty,

Here is a Faerie Flower from The Wandering Inn. It is a small gift, but I hope you will enjoy it as you have done so much for Erin and everyone here.

If it pleases you, I have hired a Courier to take a delivery back to me at their own time. They have instructions to stop at every big nation or city along the way and trade. Please send a small gift back, and they will trade it with everyone they meet who has something better to offer.

I should be very delighted to see what I receive. Thank you for indulging me,

Nanette Weishart

Trade? And only something better?

It is an old story.

Fetoheps eyes were glinting with real delight, firstly because he had the flower, and secondly because this piqued all of his interests as a king who enjoyed the world on these sort of terms.

The naked ambition of Nanette wasnt lost on either he or Pewerthe, though. Fetohep crooked a finger as he opened his vaults slightly. One of the servants stumbled as a glowing diamond, pale yellow and as fat as Fetoheps hand, gleamed into life, and the king carelessly caught it.

This would be a simple enough gift. But I thinklazy of me. It is perhaps what Nanette Weishart wants. She may well receive a valuable item if this was the first exchange. Or perhaps she thinks I shall be so glad to be gifted the Faerie Flower that Khelts largesse might be a relic. An Amulet of Greater Flameward, for instance?

He lifted a dangling locket, and a gem flashed like a thousand burning flames were contained within the stone, all hung about literal water bound into the chain and locket. Pewerthe, used to such displays, only smiled.

Im sure she would be delighted, Your Majesty. But if I may make a suggestion?

Proceed.

He was smiling. He was definitely smiling. Pewerthe indicated the flower being fussed over.

Your Majesty, that flower is exceedingly rare, but if you describe the inn correctly, Nanette dug it out of the garden, and there are plenty there.

True. So this gift is not worth a great diamond. Should we answer her in kind?

Now he was laughing, his ancient mouth opening, exposing his withered throat, skin preserved by sand, and yellowed teeth. Pewerthes eyes twinkled.

What if you told her well send her something appropriate? I suggesta pot. From my shop.

How valuable are they?

I make them well. I would charge a single fancy for the fanciest pot I can make.

That might have been because Pewerthe had no real notion of value for living in Kheltthey were a barter economy. But that was also why Fetohep chuckled.

Excellent. I shall write to my correspondent, Mrsha, and inform her that Nanette shall receive a fine pot from a street vendor in return. With respect to you, I shall downplay the gift.

Pewerthe had to cover her own smile and laugh. Then she set out to find a nice, lovely blue pot made with clay shed dug herself from around an oasis. It had a yellow handle, and the amphora benefited from her Skills, but it waswell.

Just a pot.

When she returned to the palace, Pewerthe walked through the streets of Koirezune, looking around at the precious heart of Khelt. Like every other part of her kingdom she had toured for His Majesty, it was no less glorious than it had ever been.

Sandstone, mundane unpainted sandstone, was rarer to see than colorful murals, lifelike statues, or great gardens. The vendors still hawked beautiful creations for favors, and there were a pair of aspiring [Duelists] on the streets; another group heading to play tennis.

It felt as if the Kheltians were moving with more passion than before. A good thing. But Pewerthe also saw some Commended Volunteers cleaning up a beetle nest with clear disgust. Some took to it, but another citizen tired of sweeping and just put the broom aside and walked off.

She was encouraged that they were trying. Worried that this fad would pass. Did only she notice the lack of undead? The creeping signs of a few insects, a bit less sand swept from the walkways?

It had never seemed more beautiful despite that. The city hummed with purpose, and it was in the King of Khelt, too.

He sat upon his throne less often and was often seen striding about. The bored indulgence and wit had sharpened itself into intent. Fetohep was still, often, regal majesty. But even here, in the cavernous palace, his intent was making itself manifest.

He was, at this moment, striding about a room where several [Sculptors] that Pewerthe had personally recommended were finishing their touches on two new cities.

One for Gnolls, one for Centaurs. With him were all three [Chieftains], the Herdmistress Geraeri, and the King of Khelt was consulting with a young man as he spoke. He was slyly consulting from a scroll, whereupon he glanced up and spoke with great care.

Prazer, Mateus. I correct myself again. Muito prazer. Esse cidade

He checked his notes.

linda. However! What word do I seek? Insufficient.

The young man was following along, and Fetohep turned to a [Mage], who spoke without bothering to try another language.

[Translation]. His Majesty of Khelt is looking for the word for insufficient.

And any corrections to my address.

Fetohep consulted with the grinning Mateus, who was pleased to talk to the King of Khelt and correct him on his command of Portuguese. He seemed more happy that anyone wanted to learn his language.

No one, not even Flos Reimarch or Orthenon, had the time to converse. Even Wistram had just uncovered a [Translation] spell.

But the King of Khelt insisted on trying. He had a command of Drathian that let him converse more-or-less fluently with another Earther in his care. He nodded and gestured at the city.

Linda, mas pouco ambiciosa. Translator. We have limited numbers of undead still capable of construction, and most are dedicated to Jecrass. It is my intent to build this city with as much art from each culture as can be instilled. Doubtless, the city will be upgraded in time, but search for any other great marvels of your homeland.

He seemed happy. For a second, Pewerthe watched as the King of Khelt returned to his conversation, then switched into perfect Drathian to address a nervous girl holding a broken plate, afraid of being scolded.

It smelled like change in Khelt, wild and glorious. But she feared the wind might soon bring something else as well.

When Seve-Alrelious, the Hundredfriends Courier, bowed before Fetohep, the King of Khelt offered him the pot, much to his and Nanettes dismay.

You have a challenge ahead of you, Courier.

Iconfess it may be harder than I thought. Is it agreat pot of magic, Your Majesty?

Pewerthe?

She bowed innocently.

It has [Shatterproof] and [Deeper Container] baked into the clay, Courier. Oh, and the pot cools whatever liquid or object is within it. As if it were in shade. No better. I am a Level 30 [Potter]. But I did not put all my Skills into it. I think it was a days work for fun.

Oh.

Seves face fell, and Fetohep laughed again.

Your task is simple, Courier. Exchange it for something better. You are displeased.

No, Your Majesty

Seve stood in front of Khelts monarch, an audience he had never had before, and he was well flattered by the chance. He had been excited to visit Khelt, but he couldnt hide the dismay that Fetohep saw on him.

To pass beyond the borders of Khelt and have a weeks stay in the cityhed been touring and eating for free at the finest shops, telling people stories, and being gifted food, and that was a wonderful time. But this

Ook.

Someone ooked in an aggressive manner, and Seve elbowed a furry, orange, glowing Orangutan next to him.

Shut up, Erek! I am sorry, Your Majesty. Erek wanted to see, but I apologize for his

The Hundredfriends companion was a summoned being, a glowing tattoo on his arm. Erek, the Orangutan, squatted on his long limbs, staring around Khelts palace with great entertainment. But even he sensed Seves dismay and ooked aggressively at Fetohep.

I take no offense to themonkey. What species is he?

Erek is an Orangutan. From Baleros. I met him there.

Ah, I had heard your countless companions were delighting my city. You have my thanks for that. Servanttender the Hundredfriends Courier a small gift of Khelts regard. A pristine bag of holding, perhaps. One capable of a wagonload of goods.

At once, Your Majesty.

Erek and Seve turned their heads as a man with bright yellow hairdyed yellow, not just blondehurried off.

Your Majesty is too kind!

Seve ducked his head lower as he knelt, and Erek prostrated himself. Fetohep raised his brows. But both Erek and Seve knew that a bag of holding that valuable was worth thousands of gold pieces. And it would double the Couriers own personal bag.

That was the kind of largesse that Khelt was known for. Which, of course, made the pot all the weirder.

That is mere gratitude, Hundredfriends Courier. Servant. Bring the Orangutan his preferred treat. Which would be?

Fruits, Your Majesty? OrErek loves bananas, and hes been long from home.

Fetch a bushel for him to snack upon.

Erek clapped his hands in delight, but Seve returned to his conversation with Fetohep.

The pot, then, Your Majesty?

I understand your dismay, Hundredfriends Courier. You have, no doubt, come here expecting me to send you with a chest of treasures to Izril and to make mighty trades of increasing value. Perhaps you thought to return with a Djinnis bottle or a suit of mithril chainmail before even leaving Chandrars shores.

The thoughthad occurred to Seve, and he had to confess, he had wanted to go home.

Actelios Salash called him. Tombhome. The Carven City. He had been away from home for years, and only the novelty of this job had made him consider adjusting his plans. However, Fetoheps gaze was direct.

I have warred with Actelios Salash of late. You, doubtless, know of it. Have you thoughts?

Then, Seve felt a chill, because the King of Khelts regard on him was colder, and Pewerthe shivered. The Shield Kingdom of Actelios had changed of late. Seve had heard rumors, but he had wanted to see it himself.

As for the attackan Ash Giant and multiple Jaws of Zeikhal had fallen while attacking Tombhome. Armies had entered Tombhome, even the famous Scourgeriders of Emrist. They had put the Carven City to sleep once more. At great cost.

Seve had been born in Actelios Salash. He had eaten of its flesh. He was one of them.

To look at him, he looked like most Chandrarians, if a Courier. Thus his brown skin was tanned, and he was amazingly fit for a Courier who traveled both land and sea. He was often bare-chested to show off the glowing tattoos of countless animals he had befriended.

That was his power, to summon them to fight with him. From great beasts of the sea to friendly birds to Erekhis friends were with him, and so were the people he had met. He had friends in every continent, among every people.

Odd, for the Courier of the most feared and reviled city to be so loved. But that was also, perhaps, because he was a citizen of Actelios Salash.

He did not tire easily, he bled less quickly, and he healed from great wounds at alarming speed. He was stronger, quicker, and the one drawback was that he had to eat the Carven Citys flesh. Or he would be driven back in madness to his home.

A citizen of Actelios Salash. A man who might belike that city now was. Did he hear a heart beating in the vast being that lay buried in the sands? Did those eyes, ringed and hollowed out, stare through his blue gaze?

Seves head rose, and he met the golden gaze of another kind of monster to much of the world. A Revenant. An undead king, who ruled this land with death magic.

The Hundredfriends Couriers smile looked like that burning flame in Fetoheps eye sockets. It had little mercy. It was bright. It made Pewerthe shiver.

It looked like a dagger. It reminded Pewerthe of the [Bandits] who had held her captive when they had been tricked into murdering each other in one night of bloodshed. They had smiled like that.

I have heard of that, on the day that mysteries struck this world, Your Majesty. And I did think to ask whether my friends or family lay dead. The Scourge of Emrist burned its way into my city. They, doubtless, destroyed much of my home.

Yes.

Fetohep never moved. Seve paused, and his voice deepened.

If Actelios was stirring, if they heard a heartbeat from those dark depthsthen, Your Majesty, I bear you and Khelt no ill will. For that is our pact. If I were there, and if any would trust me in that hour, I would have claimed a torch and thrown it down those sacral veins. If the heart beats, we are the blade that should devour it, stab it until it bursts.

He stopped again, and Erek paused in unpeeling his fourth banana.

And if we have failed our charge, the Scourge is the least of what we deserve. If Tombhome is corrupt, if it is craven, bring poison. Bring plagues. Bring the nightmares of Chandrar until it is filled only with true intent. My family, my friends, honored the laws of Actelios Salash. I can only wonder what has changed. I wanted to see it.

He looked up, and the King of Khelt only moved then to lift a hand.

Well said, Seve-Alrelious. To my knowledge, the main city is the one that seemsaltered. The former leader is dead. I was told he was dead.

He hesitated then, and his golden gaze flickered. Seve was confused.

Baosar?

Another pause.

Yes. His son inherited his position. Baosar is dead. But my understanding of Tombhome is incomplete, and the Scourgeriders of Emrist sacrificed themselves to the last to silence it. I am disturbed. Tell me what you know of Tombhome. Given recent eventsis it lost?

He leaned forwards, and Seve spread his hands as he bowed. This meeting with Fetohep was adjusting his own intentions towards home, and he replied honestly.

If Tombhome was stirringI felt a great call towards home at sea, which is why I have come back, Your Majesty. Yet it faded on the day you mentioned. You ask me if Actelios is lost. To that, I can only say that it is not one thing. There are multiple eyes, multiple components of the Cities of the Mind, Your Majesty. Multipledistricts is the best way I can describe it. I was born elsewhere and never lived long in what you would know as the main city.

Even Fetohep paused in his intent listening at this. He murmured.

Intriguing. I did not realize there were other communities beside the Carven City alone.

Is Khelt one city, Your Majesty? With greatest respect.

I take your point. Intriguing. Then you have contributed twice to Khelt in a single day. Yet I am glad to have caught you by chance before you returned to Actelios Salash. Tell me, Seve-Alrelious. What is thesecond stage of a citizen of Actelios? My Scourgeriders claimed to have fought them in the deeps. What does that mean? Is that beyond the pale?

Now, Seves skin was erupting in goosebumps. Theyd reached a second stage? He swallowed hard.

Ifany citizen reached a second stage, a true awakening, it would be cause for great joy. And alarm. Some would send them deeper. I believe the correct course would be to announce it quietly to our allies in the other Shield Kingdoms. The last time, I think the Quarass was asked how best to use one.

And in this case? If I told you there were multiple, perhaps dozens of them?

Seve inhaled and exhaled slowly.

I would saythat is a very, very bad sign. I would ask the current leader why they were not killed or divided up. Iwould want to see all this myself.

I see.

Neither man spoke for a long while, and the luxurious throne room of Khelts king, despite the marbled floors and great throne chair gleaming with goldseemed tarnished, as if the air itself had a pall over it. It was Fetoheps hand that rose first, before he spoke, and his rings flashed.

Here is my order unto you, Seve-Alrelious. It is mete that you came here, if only to chase a childs whim. For you did not know the scope of Tombhomes change. Few do. I have commanded the mortal armies still present at Actelios Salash to allow no one but the necessary [Traders] to recover flesh from the city. It is to be blockaded until I am satisfied by the answers given to me.

That seems wise, Your Majesty.

Tombhome would never starve, but they did want the outside world for what it held, alchemy and other goods if nothing else. Fetohep nodded slowly.

Another time, I would pry those answers out myself even if it took a million soldiers. Todaythough it pains me, I shall not press Actelios Salash beyond that. I shall hope the madness abates. But I say to you, Seve-Alrelious: do not go home. Take this contract. If needs must, I will match any price you wish, but do not go home yet. Not until I know what lies within. I would not have the great Courier and only man to know the Carven City welllost. What say you to this?

Seve considered it, and he nodded slowly.

I thinkI think this is well, Your Majesty. I ache to return and ask my friends and family what has happened. I need no further payment, but if I could beg your indulgence to send a note?

I shall have it conveyed within. Tell me, Seve-Alrelious. Can you withstand the desire to return home?

Another pressing question. Seve had to think.

I can purchase enough flesh from home for another year. Tombhome does not call loudly as long as I eat enough, and I will make sure I do. Yet it will always call me in time.

Fetohep exhaled, or made some similar sound since he had no working lungs.

Hsst. A year will do. Thank you, Seve-Alrelious. When you next return, I will have answers or a better understanding and you will not enter alone.

Seve could only bow, and the conversation switched to the delivery, to boths relief.

This job might be a good distraction, regardless. I confess, I did think I was about a great task, Your Majesty.

Seve shrugged, calming down now it seemed they were back on firmer ground. To that, Fetohep chuckled, and his mood grew lighter and calmer.

You are. Do you not see it, Hundredfriends Courier? What a poor gift and challenge it would be had I offered you a Relic-class item or a chest of gold. What a disservice to your story. You are the famed Courier. Do you not see the value of offering this humble pot? It comes from Khelt, and you may inform your next host it is a gift from Fetohep. But it is still a pot worth a single meal in Khelt. Do you understand?

Seves head rose with a great frown, but it was Erek who clapped his hands in delight and ooked a complex series of syllables. ThenSeve got it. Fetohep nodded at the ape.

A worthy mind, your companion.

It was a challenge. One that the Hundredfriends Courier suddenly grew excited about. Becauseof course.

He didnt just have the pot. He had the story. He had Fetoheps name. He sprang to his feet.

I do see it, Your Majesty. I apologize! I have a plan, nowthough I may not head to Izril right away.

Doubtless, Witch Nanette would prefer you to take the long route. I understand she was slightly dismayed by my great gift.

Fetohep was full of laughter today. He gestured at a map being held up for him.

For my own amusement, where will you head first?

Seve had to think.

I think I will take any Courier contracts without a time limit that lead to Izril. But I thinkI must head south first, to Tyrants Rest. Its the only place I can find the flesh of Tombhome. Then Ill bounce north to Reim.

The capital of Nerrhavias Fallen. And the King of Destruction. Oh well.

Fetohep heaved a huge, dramatic sigh. But he was already following Seves course.

I advise you to stop in Jecrass. My name will at least open doors in Nerrhavia to begin with. Will you trade it, one object for one?

Seve shook his head. His lips quirked.

Given the value of the pot, anything I can trade it for, any object, will do. If I trade parts of whatever I get, Ill think myself fortunate.

Very wise. Then our business concludes. But I offer you at least the refreshments of the palace before you leave. I would speak to you about your adventures, Seve-Alrelious. Let it not be said that I was a poor host. Does your monkey have an end to his stomach, incidentally?

Erek had eaten an entire bunch of bananas. Which was fifteen. Seve grimaced.

Unfortunately, the pact we struck means hes part of me, Your Majesty. Anything he eats just becomes his energy later on. So he can eat without end, or until he gets bored. Ive never seen any drawbacks.

Ah. A challenge. Bring me a thousand bananas for Erek. Pewerthe, you shall dine with us too. Do you have any dish in the world save the flesh of your home you would enjoy?

Seve and Ereks eyes grew round, and the Orangutan checked his stomach. Then Seve rose with a huge smile and a twinkle in his eyes. And his great journey began.

It turned out that an Orangutan could get sick of eating bananas. Not physically sick, but Erek had gone through eighty-four before hed decided even the taste and novelty of them wore off.

He was a good companion, though, and Fetohep had gifted Seve the rest of the bananas for the road. By the time the two reached Tyrants Rest, they had begun giving the damn things away.

They spoiled slowly in the bag of holding, but Seve thought he would throw up bananas after fifteen days on the road of eating them for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. He decided to make use of inns instead.

He was a slow land-Courier, he had to admit. He was best on the small, agile boat that had an enchanted sail and cut the water fast enough for him to travel between continents if he took currents.

It was a precariously small ship for someoneexcept Seve. He had packed it up into his bag of holding, and he was enjoying having actual space thanks to Fetoheps gift.

Nerrhavia seemedwell on his journey south. But then, Seve kept to the western edge, crossing into it along Zeikhal, the great desert. The largest kingdom of Stitch-folk was vast, thriving, and yet even here, it was touched by the King of Destructions war.

Mind youthe signs were everywhere. Prices were up, and Seve was a welcome guest in many cities starved for trade or foreign visitors from the north. The bananas didnt hurt, either.

It isnt just the King of Destructions war, though the levies of soldiers are striking even here. Normally, its just the closest citiesbut he has not advanced far yet. Hes been besieging the forts to the north, and even the mighty King of Reim cannot take them without bleeding.

A [Magistrate] confided to Seve over a banana pudding. Magistrate Oireikol was actually more concerned about the western front than north.

Pomle has been destroyed.

Pomle has?

Seve dropped his pudding, and Erek flipped over his plate, which made Oireikols daughter scream. Neither had heard about it, and Oireikol was almost as appalled as them.

General Thelican used a great weapon toit was disavowed by the Court of Silk and Steel, but it is done. Now, the martial artists are attacking without stop. They have sacked three towns, one city, and two forts! They do not often attack settlements, but their numbers are growing.

Disastrous. I visited PomleI liked Pomle. Orjin must be unstoppable.

Its not him.

Even the Strongest had changed? Seve was shaken by this; too long at sea and away from home had left him missing headlines. He had debated heading to Pomle first, actually. It was a long detour, but if anyone needed a pot

The issue of Fetoheps first gift was actually bigger than Seve thought. Here was the issue.

Everyone liked bananas. Seve could give one to an urchin on the streets, a Hemp boy, or a Silk noblewoman and get a smile most of the time because fruits from Baleros were hard to acquire.

But the pot? Many people were interested in it, but Fetoheps name closed as many doors as it opened. When they heard it was a pot from Khelt, they asked if it had gold, a story, or some powerful effect.

When they heard it didnt really break, it looked nice, and things you put in it got a bit coolerthey lost interest. And, Seve suspected, many of them didnt want the damn pot because they were afraid they might offend Fetohep if they broke or resold it.

His hope was that it would attract attention from someone who coveted ties with Khelt, and hed begin his trading journey like that.

The problem was, Seve really had forgotten that each nations history mattered a lot to them. In that Khelt had not only stolen Alked Fellbow, one of their Named-rank adventurers, but theyd also sent the Scourgeriders of Emrist at Nerrhavia recently, during the battle at Pomle.

They were polite about it, in the Court of Silks, in an obvious way. Queen Yisame herself was fascinated by the pot. She spoke to him directly, a rare honor, but one a Courier was allowed.

So it truly is a humble pot? A strange gift, but it has some charm. I would purchase itbut I fear it is not germane at this time to accept Khelts small gifts.

She sat upon her throne, talking to him as he knelt before her, and his heart sank. One of her chancellors jumped in very quickly.

Not least because it is upon Khelt to be munificentor not be present at all!

A great murmur arose from the Silk-caste Stitch-folk, many hiding their expressions behind fans or murmuring in the lounge-type court. Yisame lifted a hand.

You have my permission to seek a worthy trade, Hundredfriends Courier. I have some passing interest in how your journey continues, as I like thetale of it. But I cannot purchase this pot, I regret to say.

She sounded genuinely regretful, so she was either a master of disassembling or seriously upset she couldnt buy the pot. Her court certainly seemed to think Yisame was playing up her pot regrets.

After three dozen offers and the prospective buyers backing out at the last moment, Seve was so sick of the Court of Silks that he left the palace entirely.

He did manage to foist fifty bananas he had off onto an oddly friendly Great Sage Etrikah. She rewarded his generosity with a peculiar flask of bright blue liquid.

I can give these to my relatives. You may have this, Courier, if you report on its effects.

What is it, Great Sage?

A restorative draught. It has herbs, salts, and other edibles to refresh you as you sweat and journey. Drink it at sea or after a long day and tell me if you feel it helps. That is all I want.

He noted what looked like chopped up seaweed or something in the brew and wondered if it was as nasty as it looked. One sip confirmed it was badand unpleasantly salty.

Is this for

Its for annoying [Soldiers] who complain about lack of water and for this musclebound fool who begged me for a recipe. The taste I can improve, but this is made of common ingredients.

So it wasnt something valuable. Still, it was free, so Seve asked if she had more he could trade for a pot. Her reply was a blank stare.

I dont need a random pot.

Staying in the city of Tyrants Rest was horrible. Seve resolved to leave after one day, damn the trades. He only stayed the one day so he could find the flesh of Tombhome he needed; he was almost out.

He had bugs in his room! Little metal ones. Erek, who had vanished once he got two metal ants in his fur and discovered they werent fun to eat, was replaced by Kithru and Emigege.

Kithru was a cat, one of those sleek, black ones, and he had the power to generate black fog like shadows and blend into it. He was often called upon when Seve needed a scout, but he was also a cat.

Emigege was a lizard with a long tongue. He was eight feet long, and his main power was a tongue that could roll out and strike a target. Neither one was a great fighter, but that was fine. Seve didnt need fighters as much as friends.

The two helped fight off the literal infestation of metal bugs as Seve slept, but neither could stomach the bugs, just smack them around. A frustrated Kithru, meowing as he tried to smash a beetle to death only to discover it was metal all the way through, woke up Seve from a very bad night of sleep.

Is there a plague of insects in this city?

The [Innkeeper] barely apologized for the bad service. He had bags under his eyes and took a hammer to the insects that Seves friends had gathered up.

You have tosmash themto bits! Theyre everywhere. It was just a fewthen the palace swept the city, destroyed them, uprooted the very sewers! They vanished for a while, and we thought that was that. I heard the Great Sage was behind it, and she did a very good job! Even now, the Fox-folk have less of these things in their district.

What changed?

The sour look said it all.

They camefrom the west! Dozens of cities were infested with them, and they came back as a storm.

No one could quite tell how the bugs had spread so far beyond Tyrants Rest, but Great Sage Etrikah had a theory that involved every outbreak and a map that charted where General Thelican had stopped on his way towards Pomle.

Anyways, the bugs aside, finding the flesh of Tombhome was another expensive proposition. It cost Seve nearly sixty gold pieces to buy a huge chunk of it.

He was lucky; it was bound for Rhir, but the [Merchant] agreed to sell him enough for a long time. But the price was ridiculously high.

Here was the thing. The meat of Actelios Salash didnt cost that much. It wasnt that far from Tombhome to herea good ways, yes, but the meat never spoiled. You could literally leave it out in the sun or drag it on the ground behind you and, apart from dirt, it wouldnt go bad. Nothing would eat it, not bugs, not most animals.

If you bought this cube of three-by-three from Actelios, youd paytwo copper coins, probably. Let alone the huge, quarried chunk of flesh that was sitting by the [Magistrate]s office.

The cost wasnt that, or just the expense of shipping it. Although the [Merchant] would make a vast profit by taking it to Rhir.

The cost was the tax each city levied on the flesh of Actelios Salash. Namelythe cost for bringing it through the gates and the inspectors who gravely wrapped the huge piece of meat.

They had cloth on every part of their body and a mask on. They used bright, waxed paper with huge, red and black symbols.

Proscribed. Until it left the city, it had to be kept in the wrapping. There were also sixteen men. Eight for the [Merchant], eight for Seve.

We will accompany you until you leave the city, Courier. We have all signed the Pact of Actelios. Your coin has been received. Your name, noted. Will you be dining at all until you leave?

They meant normal food. Seve shook his head.

No. Just a visit to the Runners Guild, and then I leave. I have snacks, but I will not eat them until I go.

Very good.

The scarred man was a [Guard] who was taking this job for the coin. But he looked more serious and more alert than most bored members of the Watch. Mostly because of the package, bound up, that Seve put in his bag of holding.

Seve hated the customs in Chandrar, even though he understood the need. Paying to have the meat wrapped up or inspected was a pain, but a single bite meant you were hooked upon it. He took great care himself never to make that mistake. It was the greatest sin of Tombhome to share that flesh without asking.

The [Magistrate] was patently uneasy about even having the meat around him, for all he had probably had to do this before. The sixteen men that Seve and the [Merchant] had hired were a large part of the sixty gold coins.

They were paid well. Theyd stick with both Seve and the [Merchant] until the flesh left their city. Ohand they had all signed a magical contract.

If someone were to eat the flesh of Tombhome in the city without their consent while under their guard, all the ones assigned to Seve or the [Merchant] would be put to death.

That was the Pact of Actelios. The likelihood was honestly almost nonexistent, especially in Seves case, but it was the rule of most Chandrarian cities.

If that was all, Seve would be fine. But it was the disgust on the [Magistrate]s face, and even the other people, that made him feel nettled. He knew what had happened with his homebut they looked upon him, a known Courier, with distaste.

What is it like, if I may ask, Hundredfriends Courier, to have to rely on thisfood? I have heard children are allowed to leave the Carven City rather than partake of this. Who could, in their right minds, choose to stay and eat it? Or was there no choice?

The [Magistrate] shuddered, and Seve exhaled slowly. It was just as well Erek wasnt here, or he might try to punch the magistrates foot. He bowed around to the others.

I have always had a choice, Magistrate, folk of Nerrhavias Fallen. If you have heard rumors that people are tricked or there is no choicethere was for me. And I would damn anyone who broke that rule to the Pact of Actelios in a heartbeat.

He got a few nods, but the pale-faced Cotton man covering his nose still shook his head.

Even so. What possessed you to eat?

It smelled good. That was what turned your stomach. Even if he did not need itit was sweet, a mouthwatering scent like rare meat. It was a perfectly huge, reddish pink cube of meat you could grill up until it ran with juice, sweating in the sun.

It had no visible veins, no innardsit was just flesh. Because the being it was carved from was so vast that a single organ could be eaten and eaten for ages. What made the others shudder with horror or grow nauseous and pale was that part of them wanted to eat it.

And Seve? He stood there, smiling, angry, eyes flashing even as his tattooed friends swam across his body, some snarling, others making silent, insulting gestures. The Hundredfriends Courier was polite, though, and he responded simply.

From the day I was old enough to think, Magistrate, I beheld the adults who partook of the meat of Tombhome. I was disgusted by the frailty of my own flesh. I bled, and the wounds did not close before my eyes. I jumped and did not soar. I was aloneand now I am part of a throng who takes part in a single communion.

They did shudder at that, as he intended them to. But why? He saw his guards look at him, and Seve answered for them.

Perhaps its cowardice. But a Sandworm of the Great Desert can swallow multiple men whole in a single bite. I have seen Crelers thronging, great monsters, and, yes, simply war. Standing against them with frail body and a single lifeis hard. When I walk against great monsters now, another is behind my eyes. And it terrifies them. If you have ever railed at the weakness of your bodyTombhome calls you home.

A great silence arose at that, and the voice of the old [Merchant] broke in.

Enough. Enough. You go too far, Hundredfriends Courier.

He was a Stitch-man, and he had never eaten of the flesh, though he made his living by it. He looked at Seves youthful, stronger body and shook his head.

It is a choice. I have been tempted, but the cost is too high.

Seve nodded. He felt at his belt pouch, anda picture was there. He turned and gave the magistrate and his guards a polite smile.

Yes. It must be. But if you ask whyI have stared down deep into the vein-wells of Actelios Salash. I was once a boy, not a Courier. I wanted to be part of a great mystery. And we eat our old foe and home. It does not rot. It grows back. If not usthen who?

His eyes were alight with the profane and with that insanity all Couriers and Named-rank adventurers shared. Someone murmured.

Nerrhavia and Actelios should have fallen. Let both be cast into oblivions sands.

To that, Seve turned so fast and fluidly he seemed a different being, one that was a next evolution of his kindbrighter, strongerand made the Stitch-folk start with unease. But all he did was smile wider.

This kingdom brought down Nerrhavia, and the Immortal Tyrant died at last. Even when it was ascendantit was too weak to destroy Tombhome. If ever that great force shall appear once again, I will watch it try.

The Hundredfriends Courier was not all sunshine and smiles. Rather like someone who was a great friend, rather than just a good friend, he would be on your side and sail through a magical hurricane to deliver medicine for you.

But he was also stronglyhim. He would not apologize for being part of Actelios Salash. He took pride in it, despite what it did and had done.

It was complicated. He was complicated. But he was also a Courier, so he stopped by the Runners Guild, despite his burning desire to leave Nerrhavias Fallen. Stitch-folk had such opinions on someone who had changed their flesh, as if it were any different from how they could change their thread.

I havea Courier-level delivery for you, Hundredfriends Courier. Non-priority. But it is close to, er, Liscor.

To his vague surprise, there was something he could take. He wasnt going straight to Izril, so Seve had sort of thought there wasnt much work for him. But rather like a City Runner got bulk deliveries of letters, there were people who were willing to pay for goods to go via a Courierat their own pace.

I have a bag of holding full of space. If the client wants that

I can check. Will you give me five minutes?

Seve was prepared to wait only an hour, but to his surprise, three minutes was all it took for a rather fast reply.

The client is pleased and prepared to wait. You are a very trusted Courier, Hundredfriends.

I try.

Ook.

The [Receptionist] was very taken with Erek, who climbed up into a chair and bared his teeth at her. He offered her a hand to shake, and she hesitated before handing Seve something.

You will need to collect the itemand they want a private handoff.

The guards were not happy about that. But Seve convinced them to hold onto his bag of holding, and he left Erek to guard it too. The Orangutan was apparently trying to flirt with the Stitch-woman with a banana. He often tried his luck, and over the years, hed never had any success. But he could understand what everyone said, perfectly, and often surprised people by playing dumb.

He could forge Seves signature and write too. And that really surprised people, but Seve kept the secret for Erek. In truth, there was a reason Erek was often out of his tattoo and not hiding. He was intelligent, strong, and functionally immortal so long as Seve lived. Seve had often thought Erek could easily be a Silver-rank adventurer even without Skills.

His handoff was weird. It raised all kinds of what Seve would call suspicions.

For one thing, the woman who came to the door he knocked on clearly didnt live there. She invited him into the living room, and she was dressed very well. Silkand this was a back alley Hemp neighborhood.

She was trying to dress in nondescript clothing, but it was expensive. Ohand there were three people watching him from upstairs.

Is this something illegal? Because if it isIm being paid to keep it covert, but how I react depends on how much trouble Ill be in.

He asked her cooly, straight up, and she wavered.

Illegal? No. No, not as such, I believe.

That was an evasive answer. It didnt pass any truth stone, and Seve eyed the wrapped package.

It is spelled not to open without the correct code-phrase. It will destroy itself if anyone attempts itthough it will be impossible to trigger the effect just moving it around. You are being trusted not to open it.

I am an exceptionally reliable Courier. How dangerous is the protection?

He was. He never opened anyones packages. The womans voice was husky as she spoke.

Very. We appreciate your delivery of this. You will be paid more upon receipt. Time is not of the most critical essence so much as integrity.

They must really not trust this with another Courier. Given how shady this all feltSeve eyed the black package, but it was just big enough to hold something two hands big and wrapped up with black cloth and glowing wax seals, so it could be anything. He slowly put it in his pack, then took the gold she offered.

More than enough to cover his Actelios purchase. Suspicious, suspicious, suspicious.

Oh well. It was entertaining enough, and he did like a good story. If someone came after him because of thished play it by ear.

He was hard to kill. He gave the woman his best smile.

I understand. If you are an underworld gang or some kind of cult, conspiracy, or cabal

She started, and he glanced meaningfully upstairs.

I dont care. Im paid to do this delivery. So long as it isnt going to directly kill lots of people? I need a yes or no on that.

No. Not kill people.

She replied slowly, and Seve nodded.

Then Im your Courier.

She regarded him and pulled the veil over her lower face tighter. She had, Seve noticed, very old thread. Hand-me-down cloth? Down-on-her-luck nobility?

I knew you would understand something about loyalty. That is all it is. Loyalty. You must love your city, even if it is now changed.

Seve gave her an odd look, and somehow, she understood more of him than the magistrate.

Yes. We are a Shield Kingdom of Chandrar. For all we have been fools and nuisances and corruptwhen they call, if we are true, we will be that army without end. Nagas under the Eyes of Baleros. Terandrian Crusades. Even Dragons leading armies of Drakes have been pushed back by us.

Not Khelt. Not just cunning Germina or the power of Merreids Djinni or Qualvekkaras Garudas in the sky. But by the army without fear, who threw themselves forwards with fury to match any of the King of Destructions armies.

To legends.

She whispered, that stranger. Then she bowedand he left the house. He smiled, because he did like being part of stories.

When he got back to the Runners Guild, Seve realized that Ereks flirting could have consequences.

Dire ones.

Not in that Erek was overly pushy. He was a good sort. But while he was waiting, he saw someone come into the Runners Guild and approached them.

Because he wasnt in danger of getting hurt. And because he was Erek. He offered her a banana, and they got to talking.

Ook. Ooook. Okrh. Gerrook. Ook. Hae! Hae! Hae!

That last part was a monkeys scream. He slapped his chestthen eyed his companion, who had the banana in front of them. The rest of the Runners Guild, including the guards for the meat, were sitting still. Seve just stared as the nine-foot-tall woman made out of stone tilted her head left.

I do not follow. But you are speaking to me, arent you? How strange. I noticed it the last time I was in Baleros, but my master did not believe me.

Ook?

Cognita Truestone sat there, and Seve strode forwards as Erek, ever-helpful, pulled something out of the bag of holding.

He offered her the pot, and Cognita inspected it.

It is a pot.

Ooke.

I see.

Cognita Truestone!

She glanced up. Her eyes were cool emeralds, and he stopped when she regarded him.

Seve-Alrelious. We meet again.

What are you doing

No, wait, he knew this one. But Cognita was busy with the pot.

This comes from Khelt. The clay there is good. A lovely, blue fire. I believe your companion is trying to sell it to me.

Iyes.

He had to explain the basics of his job to her, and Cognita sighed when she understood, which was halfway through the explanation.

Of course. There is a Drake story about the same thing. Trading one good for another ever-upwards. Only, Drake society tells it backwards, which is a parable about never giving anything away. Including affection.

She moodily peeled the banana and took a bite. Seve had no idea she could do that.

Can you taste it?

No. I convert it to energy. As for thisI like the clay.

She did? Seve couldnt tell good clay from crap clay, but apparently this was nice clay. Cognita studied the pot, then glanced up.

How much is it worth?

A meal in Khelt, I was told.

I see. Thenif you wish a suitable exchange, should I procure the gold or simply an object?

An object would do.

Another nod. Cognita delved into her bag of holding and produced something. It wasa Yellat.

It was three feet long and the largest damn Yellat that Seve had ever seen. It had an oddly glossy skin without the dirt he was used to seeing, and it had a huge stalk.

This is a Yellat acquired from the fields I have been managing. It is too large to sell at established rates, and Nerrhavia does not respect Yellats. Will you take it?

Yes.

If nothing else, Seve was tired of the pot, and that looked like food. He took the Yellat gingerly, and Cognita rose.

Ook. Ookenot interested in your advances, but thank youok-ook.

She took Ereks hand as the Orangutans mouth dropped open and turned. Cognita looked rather pleased with herself. She strode off, and Seve stared at Erek.

She didnt actually say something, did she? Thats impossible. Even for

Erek fell over backwards in a dead faint.

Northwards with Yellat in tow. This time, Seve passed through Nerrhavia faster, owing to his desire to leave by a northern coast.

To do this, he used the help of Russivec, the Bicorn of House Walchas. A charging fellow who ran north. He had a bifurcated, huge horn, and he was half-bull, half-horse. Bethal Walchas, after the success of her initial horse-breeding, had tried to import stranger horse-breeds still.

But the Bicorn had been too temperamental for even her. He had a habit of playing chicken with wagons or oncoming traffic. In that hed race straight at a wagon and dare it to keep going. He didnt care if they hit each other. He never had, even before hed agreed to become Seves companion.

Part of the reason that Seves animal-companions joined him was for the ride. They got to experience the world and have longer lifespans than he did. Even if they were tattoos, they stared out of his body without fearing hunger or predation.

The other reason was because they had needed help. The huge Nelgaunt whale-creature that Seve called his friend had been wounded and dying when he rescued him. Russivec had been herdless, close to being put down for being a menace.

Aside from apologizing to people on the road north, it wasnt hard to make good time, and it took him only eight days of hard riding to get to the northern border.

Seve was soured on Nerrhavia for a bit, and he hadnt found what he, personally, wanted. Oh, the desert land appealed to him, and the Stitch-folk with their great fashion and the milling cities were, to him, wider and grander than many other continents cities.

He could call Chandrar home proudly. But Seve always left, as well, because he was a seeker and Nerrhavia had nothing for him.

Especially now. Sorry. I doubt you lot will find what you want in Reim, or anywhere else. Khelt, perhaps, once we earn King Fetoheps respect, but I didnt want to ask. Jecrass?

Russivec grunted and tossed his head, and Seve patted him on the flank.

A deal.

The Bicorn actually picked up speed at that, and the tattoos shimmered as his friends silently danced over his flesh with excitement. But first they had to get through the warfront, so Seve grew watchful as he closed on Nerrhavias northern borders where fortresses dotted the land.

There he saw the war with the King of Destruction first-hand.

Who had said that Reim was having trouble with the forts? Oh, a [Magistrate]. That was what it looked like on paper, but the [Soldiers] seemed disturbingly relaxed to Seve.

The war camp was filled with [Soldiers] that Seve could only describe as veteran. Despite the magic flashing from the fort in the distance, they sat or even slept, their armor worn by battle, but in good condition.

Unlike a rookie [Soldier] who polished their spear until it was sharp, a [Soldier] of Reim, a man, checked it twice with a whetstone, put it next to him as he relaxed, and sat there, laughing and joking with his squad. Of the twohe looked far more dangerous.

They were confident. Even the half-Giants, who waved at Seve as they sat around, had the air of people who had broken armies before them.

It made Seve feel intimidated himself as he approached the huge tent where the King of Destruction lay. The legends of the King of Destruction had manifested in this eternal campaign, and he held court in a simple tent as his army besieged Nerrhavias forts.

Casually. That was the thing. They were facing a fortress, one of the Bastions that Nerrhavias Fallen had on their northern border, enchanted spires hurling magical bolts through the air, a killing trench dug around the old blackstone walls.

Seve had heard this was a relic from the age of Nerrhavia, the Immortal Tyrant herself, and even if it was faded, the magic mostly gone, Reims army just parked outside of it with a cheerful indifference that the Stitch-folk didnt share.

Perhaps it was because, for all they were up against a great nation of Chandrarit was only one nation, not dozens. They were on the offensive, and for once, Flos Reimarch, the King of Destruction, had no more enemies gnawing on his sides.

He was building trebuchets. And his trouble was mostly Flos putting his feet up while Nerrhavia sweated and watched more and more of his armies coming south. And his Seven

When Seve found Flos Reimarch and was granted an audience with him, the King of Destruction was playing a game. It was no less than Gazi the Omniscient and the steward, Orthenon, who escorted him.

They were the ones building the trebuchets. Amazingly, both had apparently memorized how to make them from the first wars of conquest, so the secret of Drakes and Minotaurs was turning into an unpleasant surprise for Nerrhavia in their magical forts.

Mind you, they still had wall enchantments that were hurling magical bolts at Reims army from vast distances. But the walls were also exchanging fire with the Archmage of Chandrar, and she had lit up an entire wall with lightning and sent the Stitch-folk running as Seve rode towards Reims lines.

Your Majesty, a Courier to see you with a story to catch your ear.

Orthenon announced loudly, and Seve heard Flos Reimarch laughing before he met the King of Destruction face-to-face.

Seve had seen Flos Reimarch before. He was too young to remember the original, but he remembered a hollowed man on his visits to Reim, a tired, quiet city, snuffed out of ambition.

The huge figure laughing as he swung around a fan like a mace was a completely different person. He was dancing around a hugesandbox in the middle of his war tent. Everything else had been shoved to the side, and even the war table had been flipped over and a bunch of sand pushed onto the ground. There were actual little miniatures of forts, rocks, and things that Seve suspected were meant to go on said war table and map.

But they were being used as a young man sat across from the King of Destruction, nervously giving orders as Flos bellowed his.

In the background, another young man, Trey Atwood, had his face in his hands. Elena watched, rolling her eyes, and half the Earthers were with Flos, the other half clearly wondering what the hell was going on with their lives.

Forwards the left flank! Forwards thestop the cavalry there! Damn!

Flos was energetically shouting, but he was in trouble. Waves of his [Soldiers] were charging left, but a wing of horses in a wedge formation literally plowed into them on the left.

Heidec Formation! Heidec

They dont know what that is, Flos. I dont.

Trey shouted at last, and Flos threw up his hands.

Fighting retreat! Dead gods, theyre getting slaughtered!

He pounded the floor, watching as his soldiers were being hacked to pieces. But he was still smiling, despite the carnage. Dozens of them were dying! Their sand bodies slowly falling to

Sand?

Seve had thought he was watching some kind of battle being broadcast via sand magic or something, but he realized it was literally just sand.

Sand Golems. Hundreds of them, vying for dominance across a literal sandbox. It was the strangest thing he had ever seen, and he instantly saw the appeal for the King of Destruction.

Its a little war in the middle of a big war.

Gazi rolled her eyes as Flos Reimarch looked up. The King of Destruction burst into a smile, and he rose.

Seve-Alrelious. The Hundredfriends Courier! Come in! You have it in a moment. Isnt it fun? People do this all the time where Trey comes from. All the battle, none of the bloodshed. I quite enjoy it, though I prefer actual war. War should have meaningbut I am hooked by the strategy. Though every time I lose, its because the little Golems cant obey commands. And it doesnt follow real life.

You cant have one super-powered Golem. Thats cheating.

Trey answered, sounding peeved. Flos scowled.

Give me Minizi for half my army. Thats more fun to me, and thats how my Seven fight. Didnt someone have a system for points? I could use a half-Giant, too.

This is so stupid.

Elena buried her face in her hands, and Seve was amazed by the informality of this court. Flos just started laughing.

It may be! But there is something to seeing how the soldiers moveah, nevermind. It is a game. But I am hooked for now, and it beats watching the trebuchets go up. And we have a guest! Is this the famous monkey Ive heard of?

He was taken with Seve. Taken with Erek, and he insisted on having a banana without even checking for poison. The only thing he wasnt taken with was Seves background.

Actelios Salash. I have a grudge against that place, you know. Terrible deeds have been done there. One of my vassals, Trey there, has a rightful blood feud against that place, and so does the Quarass. She, I trust, and Gazi herself has said Actelios has become corrupt.

Trey Atwood had frozen up when he realized where Seve was from. The Courier bowed politely to him as he sat cross-legged with Flos, drinking wine.

So I have heard. I intended to return to set things right if I could, but this project has taken my time.

Set things right? How? With fire? With an explosion?

Trey broke in, and Flos paused with his winecup raised.

Careful, Trey. The Hundredfriends Courier is a guestand an honorable man.

Hes different from the rest of Tombhome, then.

Seve bristled as he and Trey locked eyes. The young man had a scar on his throat, and he lookedodd. He was clearly a talented [Mage], and there was a five-foot-tall figure behind him. Made of red sand? She looked like

He gave Gazi a quick glance, and the Gazer had a complicated expression on her face. Seve addressed Trey politely.

I understand you have seen something dire in Actelios. But I am from Tombhome, and it is my home, Magus Trey. Not everyone there is corrupt. Though if it is corrupt, it should be dealt with. By good people of the city, as well as outside powers.

He nodded to Flos, and the King of Destruction nodded back reasonably. But Treys eyes flashed.

Nothing in that city should remain. Do you know what pakheil are? Do you know theyre changing guests into them?

Seves skin crawled.

He shouldnt know aboutchanging guests into them?

That has to be untrue. Ordid they have a choice? Because that would be inconceivable to Actelios Salash.

Inconceivable? It almost woke up! Flos, dont eat with him. If hes really from there

Seves hand tightened on his goblet at the assertion.

I would never offer someone Actelios flesh without great reason. I would have you take it back. And if you say there is rot in Tombhome

He looked at Gazi, and she nodded seriously.

Then I acknowledge it. But my people and I are products of the Carven City. Great things can bloom amidst rot. Every field and farm rises from fertilizer.Discover new chapters at novelhall.com

Poetically said.

Flos smiled. Trey just snarled.

Youre crazy. Great things? Youre all addicted to the flesh. I can see it on you. Its in you. Thatmonster. A plague of people. Dont talk to him.

Seve slowly rose as the tent grew still.

I have only changed as I pleased. But I dislike being called a monster, even in your court, King of Destruction.

Flos waved a hand.

Oh, no. State your mind, Courier. I do not often make it a policy to be rude to guests, let alone Couriers. But I am pleased Trey is stating his mind. I will not interfere.

The Hundredfriends Courier nodded and faced Trey.

Whatever you saw in Tombhome does not define all of us. Or do you serve a murderous king who only knows war? People are more complex than

Trey pointed a finger at Seve.

You, like Roshal, are one thing. One thing defines you. And one thing is all I need to understand. One owns slaves. The other are monsters.

Flos stiffened slightly, then sighed. Seve paused, then knocked the hand down.

Roshal and Tombhome are not the same. Recant that.

Treys eyes were like bright swords, digging at Seve.

Both cities would be better off as smoking craters in the ground.

Children and all?

This time, Seve was the one who stepped forwards. Trey jerked, and before one could throw a punch, cast a spellErek put his hands on boths chests and pushed.

Ook.

Seve and Trey went flying. A huge woman coming into the tent with the most unrealistic proportions Seve had ever seenlet alone armor with literal breastscaught Trey with a laugh. Seve stumbled back, and Orthenon steadied him.

Enough! Mars, welcome. Youre just in time to play some games. Weve heard you speak, Trey. Nowlisten. If you cant, step outside.

Flos Reimarch put his cup down, clapped his hands, and Trey stormed out. Seve sat down, shaken.

What had that boy seen in Actelios? More and more, Seve felt the need to return homeand more and more, he began to realize it was as well he hadnt gone.

Perhaps he needed backup.

A gift? And Fetohep was the first one?

Flos had the most disgusted look on his face when Seve told him about the trades. He was entirely reluctant to do anything Fetohep had started.

I dont think Im interested in Khelts Eternal Glorious Haughty Majesty and his taste, which is just anything expensive. I regret to say that unless you find a buyer, I do not wish tis that a Yellat? Its the largest one Ive ever seen!

His eyes lit up the moment he saw the three-foot Yellat. Flos almost snatched it from Seve, and he held it up.

Look at that skin! It must be decades grown; they shed layers of skin and refine, you know. The taste. Orthenon! Do you see it?

Thats a Yellat, Your Majesty.

The Steward was unimpressed by the Yellat. Flos stared at him.

You fool, Orthenon. This is no Yellat. ThisIm almost tempted to re-bury it and keep it growing. The roots are trimmed, but theyd regrow. This has to be sixty years old! Most monsters dig these up because theyre magical at this stage. This is a prince of Yellats, and Cognita Truestone just handed it over?

She claimed Nerrhavia doesnt value Yellats, even old ones.

Fools.

Flos whispered. He held the Yellat up and struggledthen turned.

I must have it. How much for it? No, you need a gift that exceeds the value of this Yellat, dont you? Mars, give me one of your swords.

Eat shit! Even for you, Flos, a sword for a Yellat?

She protectively held onto her sword at her side, appalled at the notion. Flos looked around.

Wheres Amerys? She can enchant something for this Yellat.

Seve was beginning to get into his task, so he coughed dramatically.

Your Majesty, I have to leave soon. I do not have time to wait for an enchanter as this is bound for Izril.

He was hoping it would pressure the King of Destruction, and sure enough, Flos began pacing back and forth.

I could give you swords, armsis a trebuchet ready? No, thats a silly gift, and theyre inconvenient. What would serve? What would

He was pacing around his war-tent when his eyes fell on something.

The Sand Golems. Flos seized a handful and watched them try to form a phalanx in his hands. His eyes lit up.

Trey!

The [Sand Mage] was not happy about Flos idea, which was to buy the super-Yellat for the price of one hundred Sand Golems.

Theyre not easy to make! It took me a month to make this entire amount, and you want to sell them?

Trey. Trey. Trey, I well understand your complaint, but I have two responses. Firstyou can make more. Secondthis is a magnificent Yellat. Theyll last for a long time, wont they?

Trey barely looked at Seve as he shoved his hands in the pockets of his robes.

A week or two and their bindings decay, but any [Mage] can strengthen them.

Well, Seve?

A hundred Golems to fight little wargames. Well, why not? Taking the Golems from the annoying [Mage] also tickled his interest, and the Yellat probably had an expiration date, so Seve agreed.

A hundred Golems lined up for his bag of holding, and Flos proudly told him how they could simulate arrows, hold shields, and actually fight a little war.

Theres room for improvement like Skills and such, but Trey might be able to sell themif they werent made of sand.

Theyre for fun.

Trey sighed. Elena raised a hand.

Theyre for nerds. This is the lamest thing Ive ever seen. Please dont bring it into this world.

Flos and Trey stared at her, both hurt. Elena pointed at the figurines.

That literally. Literally. Makes me respect you both less. Im telling the Quarass.

Shell see the value in these.

Elena threw up her hands as Flos dismissed the threat. Seve just raised his brows as Trey glanced at him.

Nothing to say to me?

So long as youre not doing anything? No. Ill save whatever I have to say for Actelios itself.

Flos eyes lingered on Trey when the young man said that, and they lit up with approvaland Seve shivered.

The King of Destruction, for a second, had looked exactly like his legend.

Nothing would do but Flos show Seve how to use the Sand Golems, which involved six games until Orthenon finally dragged him away. The irony was that Flos was a poor player. So was Mars, because despite their ability to correctly judge how to send the Golems into a fight, they tended to get mad when a good Golem didnt hold the line. And they pestered Trey to create super-Golems to better reflect reality.

One of the strange young men and women was very good, owing to what he called experience in the game. That was who Seve had seen playing Flos, and he assumed they were a [Strategist], although the fellow doubled over laughing when he asked that.

Another good player? Erek. He beat Flos Reimarch with the novel trick of arming each Sand Golem with rocks, which let him win a tense siege.

Seve hated to admit it because Trey had made them, but the Sand Golems were clearly the product of a high-level [Mage]. They were very responsive to commands, which made sense when he heard that Trey was also a [Schemer].

Class synergy. It fit him, too. Seve moved on, passing by Khelt again on his road north.

Jecrass was where the trade exchange got interesting. Seve was already surprised to see Khelt-Jecrass, the third that had been annexed by Khelt.

It was already looking fairly odd; undead supervised by Kheltian officers were everywhere. Not on the streets, although there were a number of laboring skeletons avoided by most Jecrassians, but they were in force at the borders.

Apparently, they had been hacking up monsters and bandits, and hundreds were tilling fields or rerouting parts of the rivers to irrigate farmland.

Khelt had big plans. By contrast, Jecrass seemed impoverished by the war. The great grasslands and rivers felt luscious to Seve, and he admired the actual trees and countless rivers that fed the land of famous riders.

Russivec loved it too and galloped around, braying at his cousins, who regarded the magical Bicorn with bemusement. Seves heart hurt, but he realized that this was it.

Are you sure?

Russivec bowed his head after the third day of riding through Jecrass. He had been pacing left and right, thinking long, and his scarred head, glowing with magic, dipped sadly.

But Seve had known it. The [Worldtraveller Inkfriend] closed his eyes.

After a celebration, then. Erek, break out any snacks we have. Well halt before we get to Jecrass capital. Come out, everyone.

His tattoos shone, and everyone except for the water-based friends appeared. Yowling cats, two of them, an alligator from Nerrhavias Fallen, flying birdsand more.

They flew around as a traveling [Shepherd] and herd turned to stare. Half the sheep walked into the river in amazement as a menagerie glowed around Seve.

Unlikely friends. Carnivores and herbivores, climbing all over Russivec, who grunted and dipped his head and then looked to a herd of wild Bicorns. Seve stood there, and Erek poured a cup of beer. He gulped down half, and Russivec gulped the other half.

You wont get anyone feeding you drinks after this. Try not to raid a bar.

Heh. The Bicorn grinned, and Seve knew hed remember a lot of tricks. Seve was no [Beast Master], but his friends learned a lot.

Are you sure? Jecrass is full of people who love to ride Bicorns, and its been at war.

Russivec hesitated, but he stared at the Bicorns, and the lonely bull-horse from Izril pawed the ground and then nodded at Seve. So the Courier asked nothing more, and he just smiled and talked about the past.

Thenas dusk was falling and the Bicorn herd was warily sniffing at him, Seve produced a magic dagger. He slowly drew it across Russivecs tattoo, and the glowing lines of magic slowly parted as Seve weakened the magic line by line. The bull, glowing with magic, stood there, and his fur slowly changed from emerald green, spectral light, to ordinary, blue-black fur.

He inhaled, then, and the Bicorn pawed at the ground. He danced a few steps, stumbled, and looked around, blinking as if waking from a great, gentle dream. Then he stepped forwards, and Seve embraced him.

Erek had tears in his eyes. So did Seve.

My friend. Well check on you when we come back. Alright?

Oh. I know that!

Aaron got excited as he recognized the form of the story, and Eldavins eyes flickered.

Oh, commendable. I think I remember

He put his hand to his head for a second and looked uncertain. Then he glanced around at the other [Mages] queuing for their offer.

I do need it. Gazer Eyes are first-class magical items that you can use for all kinds of artifacts or magic.

Surely the Archmage of Memory has something to trade?

Eldavin felt in his bag of holding.

Absolutely I do.

Aaron and Seve gave him an expectant look. Eldavin cursed, turned to fumble around, and muttered loudly.

Lets see. Not that, not that, a Helm of Waterbreathing? No, no. What aboutaha!

Seve had the distinct impression the Archmage began casting magic as he pretended to pull something out. He raised his eyebrows, determined to not be impressed.

Even an Archmage couldnt just pull something worth the Gazers Eye out of his pocket. But what the Archmage of Memory presented him with a huge twinkle in his eye was

A stone.

It was a flat skipping stone, polished from lying on a riverbed or somewhere, and Seve felt absolutely nothing from it when he picked it up.

This iswhat exactly, Archmage?

This is a very valuable object, young man. I note the skeptical look. I intended it for some promising young [Elementalists], but I am willing to part with one for a Gazers Eye. In fact, Ill give you the entire class supply.

He had a bag of river-rocks. There were sixteen in all, and each one seemed mundane as hell. Seve raised his brows.

What are they, Archmage?

Eldavin was really trying to make this sale. There was, Seve noticed, a very energetic pair of Archmages heading his way, Verdan Blackwood and Feor, and Eldavin wanted to close the deal. The half-Elf leaned forwards, looking only a bit sweaty.

Trust me, young man. In terms of monetary value, this exceeds the Gazers Eye, especially because making these damn stones is a headache. Id probably not even recreate them, and the elemental class can damn well do without. It took me four weeks because you have to bind themwell, nevermind. These are Stones of the Elements. Do you have any magical training?

No. I can do [Light], but thats about it.

Eldavin frowned.

Well, go ahead and try to cast [Light] without casting it.

Seve didnt quite know what that meant, but he obligingly began to cast the one spell he knewand the Stone of the Elements in his hand changed. It turned into a glowing substance, like solid light, and lit up in his grip.

My eyes! Damn it! My flashlight isnt half as bright as that!

Aaron shouted, and Seve himself had to shade his eyes and release the spell. Eldavin, with a smirk, held up another stone, and it turned into a blazing rock.

Look. It can also doargh! Hot!

He swore as he burned his hand and skipped the stone straight into a huge jello that High Magus Telim was about to steal. The swearing Eldavin shook his hand out, but the demonstration sold Seve.

Do they run out of power?

No. Theyre very pure bits of stone. Dont let the look fool you. How about it? I doubt anyone has Stones of the Elements these days. They only last a hundred yearswhich is quite a long time and valuable. I shant make a second offer!

He gave Seve a desperate smile, and the Hundredfriends Courier had to think on it. Wistram might have a lot of [Mages], but they werent exactly good at coming up with things that would appeal to a girl.

Verdan had a bar of pure gold, and Feor had an entire jewel-encrusted hand mirror. Other [Mages] wanted to trade for various artifacts like a Wand of Fireblast, a Scroll of Invisibility, or sets of magic.

If Eldavin was telling the truth, then something only an Archmage could make was a lot more valuable. In the end, he walked away with the Gazers Eye and Seve took the stones.

Dude. Eldavin makes all kinds of amazing bullshit for nothing. And you cant even call him on it because no one else can do it.

Aaron sighed longingly as he eyed the stones. Seve was moved to offer him the one that had been in the jello.

How about you take this one?

Are you sure?

I have fifteen more for Nanette. Besides. The flashlights worth a lot, right?

Seve watched Aarons face change from delight to a serious look, and the price of the Stone of the Elements was worth confirming it.

Definitely.

From Wistram to Zeres, around the New Lands of Izril. Seve told the dockmaster that hed had an uneventful trip when he reached the City of Waves.

He lied.

He made one pit-stop along the way to the City of Waves. Unintentionally. He hadnt realized that the unpredictable sea-currents meant he was able to run into all kinds of people at sea.

Not just Drowned Folk. Nombernaught had appealed to Seve, and hed been about to angle towards it to make a trade when his intuition had pinged him.

[Sense Opportunity].

Hed sent one of his bird-friends to scout a blip in the distance. Then, Seve swung away from the Drowned City and sailed south, into the deep sea, pursuing a very slow, veryunique place.

The Drowned Folk were there, too. One vessel, which immediately began sinking the moment they realized Seve was coming their way. But when they realized it was a Courier and they knew him, the ship resurfaced.

Courier. Fancy seeing you here. We were just stopping at this deserted island.

The [Captain] was very wary as he greeted Seve. The Hundredfriends Courier made a show of looking around.

Deserted? Its full of Humans. With green skin.

That provoked an uproar of laughter from the Humans around him, and the Drowned Captains strained smile turned into a slightly more genuine one.

True enough. Humans. Half-Elves. I cant tell landfolk apart, can you? Green skin, green scales

Absolutely.

The Goblins always found the excuses of the people who visited them amusing. Not that many people landed on their island. But some did.

As Wailant Strongheart had once told Numbtongue, the laws of the sea were not that of land. Seve had dealt with Goblins before and fought them only once at sea. Hed traded with them or just nodded at them beforeand even traded goods with Demons, too.

It was very dangerous to be caught associating with Demons. Same with Goblins, but the rewards were worth it.

What are you buying?

Feathers. Roc feathers, Flashwingtheres enough alchemical goods and feathers to make me a fortune. And all they want is sugar. Thisfell off a boat from Baleros.

That probably meant the Drowned Captain had acquired a bunch of sugar from a ship that his people had raided. He didnt look like a [Pirate] himself, but [Pirates] had to sell their hauls somewhere. This kind of bouncing from ship-to-ship was why Drowned Vessels were often all painted with the same brush of piracy.

Are you headed to Zeres next?

Yep. The moment I saw the island I realized I was going to have the most profitable week in my life. Drakes would never be caught dead here.

So the Drowned Man and his crew were about to make a fortune selling rare feathers into the Zeresian markets. And all they had to do was keep their mouths shut about where the feathers came from.

Not bad at all.

Seve met the Goblins on a simple beach that looked like it had seen fighting recently. He wondered if the Minotaurs had been attacking and if soit explained a lot of what they wanted to trade for.

Is ballista. You want? Put one on your boat.

The ballista was bigger than his entire ship. The Drowned Folk were mightily interested in it, despite the waterlogged state of the weapon.

Erwhat will you take for it? I have lots to trade.

The Goblin laughed.

Trades good! Trade is great! Gold is stupid. I wipe my butt with it. Whatchu got?

Everything Seve had was on offer, but his main goods for Nanette made the Goblins gather around. They liked the flashlight for the novelty, and they were respectful in handling it and shining it in each others faces. The Stones of the Elements were also curios the little Goblins loved, and they had to be caught before they ran off with them.

Unfortunately, the Goblins werent impressed enough. When Seve pointed out the unique construction of the flashlight, one of their [Shamans] laughed.

Is just light. You want me to do it? [Cone of Brilliance].

She pointed a finger upand the Drowned Captain and Seve saw a vast cone of light shooting up over the Isle of Goblins like a lighthouse.

Dead gods, stop! Do you want to tell everyone were here?

Oops. Sorry.

The [Shaman]s demonstration proved that Goblin magic was too powerful for the flashlight. Seve tried the Stones of the Elements, but again, the magical expert didnt really care.

Is just a fancy stone. Pure so it goes earth, goes water, goes air, even. Is okay. Our Goblin Lord can do better.

She pointed towards a figure that Seve had taken to be a rock sitting on a hill, flanked by two boulders. Only then did Seve realize that it was a Goblin sitting there, covered in moss, flanked by two Hobs.

He felt a chill and realized that the Isle of Goblins didnt have to fear being seen. If any one ship came at them with malice aforethoughtit probably wouldnt reach their island.

Damn. The scrolls of healing would probably be very useful here. Sighing, Seve realized he had nothing left to giveuntil Erek pulled out the tambourines.

Ratatatat! The clacking of the shells in the tamborine was tuned to be like firecrackers going offthat was how Aaron had described them. Unlike the usual ringing of a regular tambourine, this one sounded like a thousand gigantic beetles tap dancing.

The bored Goblins instantly turned and came crowding back around Erek. They, who had dismissed the magic without much interest, loved the unique instruments. In fact, the [Shaman] was dismayed that Seve didnt have the guitar to trade.

Is very nice music. Big nuts. We dont have many trees like this. We want this!

The novelty of the music was paying off a lot more than Seve could have imagined, and he thanked the Jungleclad clan as he rubbed his hands.

Alright, what do you have for it? Ill take the ballista.

Eh. Theyre music things. So no ballista.

Theyre nice tambourines.

The Goblin [Shaman] gave him a level look.

Yes. And that is a ballista. Not the same, funny Courier.

Damn. Seves dream of sailing around with a gigantic ballista mounted to his tiny ship would never come true. And wasnt that the dream of everyone? He sighed.

Okay, but something better.

Yes, yes. Let me find things.

For the next hour, little Goblins ran over holding things to trade with Seve and Erek, and the [Shamans] hunted around for something acceptable and not egregiously expensive. They were surprisingly adept bargainers and kept refusing to trade anything good.

That is special sword. Too expensive.

Who made it?

Eh. Dunno. We pulled it up from shipwreck.

A magnificent greatsword was on the shoulder of one of the Hobs training with it. Well, they were almost all damn Hobs. Seve was agog with the immaculate finish and engravings; it looked like a masterpiece from a Terandrian armory!

Did you restore it or something?

No. Greybeard did. With his fancy, stupid Skills.

The [Shaman] stumbled over the name, and Seve saw a few Goblins turn and eye him. Erek nudged him in the side.

Seve decided to stop asking questions. The [Shaman] seemed keen on getting him out of there after that, so she hurried into her hut and finally shouted.

Aha! What about this?

She came out waving something at him, and Seve saw she had

A pillow.

It was hand-stitched, obviously, and it had a stylized, big, green Goblin head with two crimson eyes and a toothy smile on it.

It was the [Shaman]s personal pillow. She sighed as she patted it.

Can make another. Goblin Lord herself helped make. Is good pillow. You take for tamborines. Is good trade. Swear on it by Greybeards beard.

She looked serious as she offered it to him. Seve was used to weird trades by now, and he decided that for the tambourines, it might serve as a good trade.

Deal. Thank you.

He set off from the island within ten minutes of handing the four tambourines over. The racket the Goblins were making was annoying some of the ones used to peace and quiet, and one threw a rock at him as he left. But they seemed happy, and Seve hoped a Goblin pillow was worth something.

But hed mainly left because hed sensed eyes on him after the [Shaman] had said Greybeard and the merry Goblins were now watching him. As if hed heard something he shouldnt have. Erek sensed it too and busied himself with the ship.

Ook.

Yep. Bad news. Lets get out of here, Erek. Want to try the pillow?

The Goblins let them go, and Seve and Erek relaxed once they were well away from the island and it was a speck once more. They were incredibly dangerous, Goblins, Demons, but most were fair. Justunpredictable at times.

Some of Seves bird-friends might have liked the island, but since he couldnt be sure it was safe and they had left so fast, they contented themselves with waiting. Seve always wanted to be sure his friends were safe, and half were hankering for Khelt, anyways. Some of his friends were exceptionally picky, like Kithru, who fancied himself as a prime candidate for some aristocrats mansion despite being a touchy tomcat from the streets. So no harbor here, for Seve or them.

Seve still thought it was worth the trip, even if the pillow was a bit of an odd trade.

Erek fluffed it up a bit and lay down, sighing, as Seve headed off. He fell asleep surprisingly quickly and claimed he had a strange dream. So it was probably a good pillow.

Zeres was a bust for trades. The Serpentine Matriarch had no interest in Seves game, and he checked out the bazaar without much interest before collecting as much work as he could and heading out.

Seve didnt go north directly. Instead, he cut into the Great Plains. He had to see the Meeting of Tribes after everything that had gone down.

It was not an easy path, but being Human, a Courier, and having Erek all helped. Twice, Seve was stopped by small bands of Gnolls who looked dispiritedbut dangerous.

Azmuzarre, a disgraced tribe, almost turned him back both times until Seve brought up the Yellow Rivers journey and the fact that he was no direct friend to the Drakes.

Ironically, helping rescue Tyrion Veltras son gave him the most credit because the Gnolls reasoned that anyone who helped the enemy of the Drakes probably wasnt on their side.

When he got to the Meeting of Tribes, the semi-permanent camp that might never disband, Seve saw the destruction had largely been healed.

Oh, he saw the hill where the Earth Elemental had died, and they warned him about the undead spawning in the place the battlefield had beenbut most of the tribes had left.

Seve wasnt allowed anywhere near the huge tent he heard called the Earth Tent for some reason, a plain name for what he suspected to be a [Shaman]s ritual area. Nor was there as much trade as the Meeting of Tribes had before.

In truth, that was fine with Seve. Now that he was on Izril, he was bearish on further trades. It seemed to him that most things that Nanette might want were not from Izril. Still, you could change his mind.

The Gnolls were fairly interested in the flashlight. When he showed it around, a metal Gnoll, a Chieftain called Adetr, came running. But he just inspected it from all angles, then called a Human, Rose, to inspect it.

She brought a suspicious rectangle all around the flashlight and then said that was good enough and she had a recording. Seve was not highly impressed by that, and the Gnolls apologized.

We do not particularly wish to trade for something expensive, no, Courier. Perhaps something else?

The Stones of the Elements were far too expensive for them, and the Gnolls waved them off. But the pillow?

Ooh. Its a nice pillow. Is that a Goblin on the front?

Yesits a good pillow. Any takers?

The Gnolls didnt really seem to want it, but the Steelfur Chieftain was so embarrassed by whatever hed done that he growled.

Lets see if we can trade for it.

They went off and came back with another tribes [Shaman], who held up something.

Were Gaarh Marsh. If it helps Chieftain AdetrI would be willing to trade for the pillow. How abouta Whistle of Friendship?

Say what now?

Seve grew interested at once. The [Shaman] obligingly blew the whistleand instantly, three birds fluttered over. They looked attentive, and when the [Shaman] tried to pet them on the head, one pecked his finger and flew off.

Ow! You see, it gets their attention, but youd better have a good reason or feed. We are in touch with nature. Poop on my yurt and Ill feed you to a cat!

The [Shaman] wasnt the most convincing, but the little whistle definitely did something. The pillow? He accepted it with a smile, and Seve suspected the trade was there to apologize.

Well, a dubious Goblin pillow wasnt going to appeal to this Nanette. The whistle would. Seve was glad to make the trade, honestly. He was closing in on Liscor, and the snows were falling thick and heavy now. Hed been spared it in Baleros and Chandrar, and the sea had been rainstorms, but now Seve was ready to fulfill his contract.

Oh, right. Both of them.

The Bloodfeast Raiders struck when Seve was almost at Liscor. He paused, grimacing, and Erek balled up a fist, but they were far too far away to do anything, even if Seve thought he could have made a difference.

Scum.

The comment came from across the table at the pub where a man and a woman were sitting to receive a delivery.

Seves mysterious package from Nerrhavias Fallen had almost been forgotten, but Erek had reminded him to make a stop before Pallass. Now, he was a bit let down because he got no more answers from the recipients.

One was female, the other male. They were both Drakes, and they were either pretending to be a married couple or actually married.

Either way, they were the most dysfunctional pair that Seve had ever met. The male Drake had murmured that, his eyes flashing as his clawed hand strayed towards his side, though he had no weapon there. The female Drake rolled her eyes expressively.

Yes, yes, shut up, dear. Scum. You are one to talk.

I have principles.

So does everyone.

He bridled at this, but the female Drake was the one who was checking over the parcel that Seve had delivered. She opened it without letting him see what it was and smiled.

Oh, in perfect condition. Pay the good Courier, Azzy.

Now that was an odd name. The huffing Drake glared at his wife.

I resent paying for your affairs.

My dear, you couldnt afford to pay for my affairs. My business? That you pay for to keep me in your good graces.

Either they were pretending to be married or they had three children and had been together for twenty years. Seve was really having a hard time figuring out which it was.

Ook.

Yes, yes, Orangutan. Im charmed.

The Drake dismissed Erek, and he sulked, his charm lost on her. As for Azzy, he sighed as he counted out a sizeable bonus.

Your discretion and efficiency are appreciated, Courier.

Not at all. It was just part of my job on the way here. To be honest, I apologize for the delay. I meant to go to Liscor directly, but I was blown off at sea.

Liscor?

Both Drakes seemed interested, and suddenly, nothing would do but for Seve to give a shorthand of his adventures.

Youre from Actelios Salash. I recognize your flesh.

The female Drake gave Seve a sudden, intent look, and he thought she had just remembered his name. But she looked knowingand Azzy glanced at her.

Nerry

She kicked him so hard under the table it jumped. Azzy spoke through gritted teeth.

My. Darling. Love. Things do seem to end up the way you say.

Everything is connected. A seamstress once told me to look for connections like that.

The woman tapped her lips and gave Seve a searching look.

May I ask what youre taking to Liscor? Perhaps we could make a trade.

Nerry and Azzy were an odd duo. Seve could see why the female Drake hated being called Nerry if she had ties to Nerrhavias Fallen. Not many people in Izril would see the connection. As for Azzy, well. That was just unfortunate if the Drake had been named before Azkerash came to Izril.

They inspected the items that Seve laid out, and his annoyance over wasting his time quickly became a realization that he might have found his final trade partners. Because, without having to be told, both knew exactly what he carried.

Oh, a Whistle of Friendship. I suppose thats good for a child. Pass.

Stones of the Elements? Who makes those anymore?

Archmage Eldavin.

Both Nerry and Azzy chuckled at that.

Is he wasting his time on? Well, they are worth a good amount, but I would pass on either item. Perhaps for Ijvani

The stones were tempting Azzy when Nerry saw Erek produce the flashlight. Then she pointed at it.

Buy that. Now.

Azzy looked over and stared.

What is that?

Neither one knew what it was, but Nerry was intent, and Azzy inspected it for only a minute before glancing up.

I would like to make an offer on this, if you please.

Certainly. Can you sell me anything for it?

Azzy checked his pockets. He had to stand up and go to his rooms, and Nerry quizzed Seve on how he had found Nerrhavias Fallen and other countries in Chandrar. When Azzy came back, he had an endless amount of goods.

Most of them never reached Seve. Nerry intercepted them all and discarded them one after another.

No, no. No. Are you stupid? Are you trying to beno. Thats too expensive. You shouldnt have this. No, nohonestly, Toren would be more agreeable company.

I should have sent him. This is demeaning.

Azzy grumbled, and Nerry shot him a cool look.

Youre the one who wanted to know what I was up to. No. This is ridiculous. Are you some kind of hoarder without taste?

I acquired all of this.

Yes, and you have no idea what a child would like or how to trade properly. You cant haggle, you cant cook, you cant raise children

Erek and Seve were giving each other long looks as the other Drakes in earshot gave Azzy a sympathetic look. The henpecked Drake was staring down at his feet, and Seve wondered if he should tell the Watch that one of the two was going to try to murder the other soon.

But Nerry did spot something in his collection of items that finally made her smile.

Oh. This? This will do for a child like Nanette Weishart.

Hm? How did she know Nanettes name? Seve sat up, but then he relaxed and pretended not to notice. If there was one thing he had learnedthis trading voyage had been all about knowing when not to get himself in trouble.

Nerry gave him a huge smile as she came back with what she considered an acceptable item. Seve was curious; for all Aaron had up and downplayed the flashlight, it had come from Wistram. What Nerry offered him in return was

A key.

It was bone-white and had a tiny skeletons head on the top. The teeth looked simple, and she laughed when she waved it at Azzy.

Of course you have one. This will do nicely.

Is that?

A skeleton key. Perfect for inquisitive girls. I had one, you know. Will it do?

Seve thought about it. A flashlight that produced light or

Thank you. A pleasure doing business with you, Miss?

Nerry will do. Thank you, Courier. You have been a delight. But do take care when you go home. Actelios goes through periods of great triumph and downfall, you know.

He stiffened at that, but unlike beforeNerry seemed knowing.

I know that. We know that.

Yes, you do. But you dont remember how far you can sink. You seem to be an example of Tombhomes best. But you dont know its worst. Bear it in mind.

She made him shiver all over. Azzy rose and merely shook Seves hand.

Travelling the world is a great joy. I wish you all the excitement, Courier. If only I could return to those halcyon days.

He smiled sadly, and Seve thought, of the two, he was the one wearier and sadder. They were a bad couple. Seve was glad to see the back of them.

The Hundredfriends Courier arrived in Liscor as it snowed after a great battle had taken place. He walked into an inn from Pallass, and the Gnoll at the door raised a paw.

No entry to the inn. Just transwhat is that?

Ook.

Erek waved at Liska, and she opened and closed her mouth. Seve raised his Couriers seal.

I have a delivery. If this is a bad time

Liska gave him a long look, from tattoos to Erek, and shook her head.

Noyoure that guy who delivered Tyrions kid and the cure to Baleros, right? And thats a thingamajig. A whatsit.

An ape.

No, a monkey.

Erek slapped his forehead and ooked angrily. Liska shrugged.

Sorry. You definitely fit the bill. Youre an Erin-thing. Go on through.

She pointed him down the hallway and had to get up and unlock the door to let him in.

Ishkr! Courier for Erin! Hes got an ape!

A Gnoll appeared, scowling at his little sister, and when he saw Seve, he smiled.

Hundredfriends Courier? Youve been expected. And youre a welcome guest. Anything you want? On the house.

Seve smiled tiredly, and the weight of his journey of months seemed to hit himand fade away as he took in the inn.

It was humbler than he expected, to hear people talking about it. No one was explodingbut then, the air had the feeling after an explosion.

There were just core guests here, talking quietly, focusing around several people who lookedchanged.

[Knights]. The Order of Solstice glanced up as the Hundredfriends Courier walked forwards, and someone pointed.

Hey. Thats an Orangutan. Am I dreaming?

Joseph stared at Erek. The Orangutan waved, clambered into a seat, and read the menu. Seve read the sign next to the menu and smiled.

No Killing Goblins.

Hey, hey, hey! Someone can read!

A slightly tired, warm voice called out, and Seve felt like he had a lighthouse at his back. He turned as he had so many times, when meeting the Gazers, Eldavin, Nerry, Azzy, the King of Destruction, Raeltand knew Erin Solstice before he even laid eyes on her.

The inn itself smiled at him, and she walked slowly forwards, supported by a man who was all burns wearing blue armor.

Normen, stop. Lie down already!

Im fine, Miss Solstice. Its just a burn.

That man could have used Tombhomes flesh. He had one eye, and he looked half-dead. But proud. Proud and weary andhe had a gravity about him that he had lacked yesterday.

The Grandmaster of the Order of Solstice and Erin herself approached the table, and Erin held out a hand to Seve.

Hello. I owe you a big debt for both this delivery and delivering the Yellow Rivers cure. And hello. Are you an Orangutan? Can you speak?

Erek, surprisingly, shrugged and mimed writing before gently shaking her hand. Erin turned to Seve, and he coughed.

The pleasure is ours, Miss Erin. We owe you for helping get that cure to Baleros. It saved one of my friends lives.

You delivered it. Lets call it a mutual debt of respect. And you are?

Erek.

Seve and Erin knew each other already. It was Erek who introduced himself, trying to kiss Erins hand and ooking. She laughed, then called out.

Mrsha! Get over here! And wheres Nanette?

In Liscor, shopping with Lyonette.

Wellsomeone go get her! Mrsha? Let me tryaha!

A door opened, and a little white Gnoll, who had been reading a book upstairs, fell through it as it opened under her. She went skidding across the floor and looked around wildly.

Hey! How dare you! Damn you!

She slapped a stone dangling from her side, and a pre-recorded note played. She waved her fists as Erin frowned at her.

Hey, Mrsha, watch the language, or Ill tell Lyonette. Do you have a spare notecard and quill? Erek here can write.

The Orangutan and the white Gnoll girl stared at each other. It was hard to say who was more surprised by the other. Mrsha scribbled on a card as Seve watched, fascinated. She was very fast, and then she held it up.

Forsooth! A talking, orange Human who writes? It cannot be!

Erek delicately took a quill and wrote on a spare card. His handwriting was less polished, but he scribed the words big and handed the card back to Mrsha.

I can write. Double forsooth on you.

Her mouth dropped open, and Erin began laughing. She had to sit down, and Mrsha the Outforsoothed and Erek began writing as Seve explained his journey.

I ran into trouble at sea, which delayed my trip.

Youve been to two continents? All for Nanettes little trick. Are you sure she paid you enough?

It was a fun adventure. I think Im close to levelling from it.

In fact, when he sleptErins eyes twinkled at Seve.

I think this might be it. Its always at the end of a great journey when you level up, and youve brought treasures from kingdom to kingdom, havent you?

Yes. Is Miss Nanette here?

Im here! Im here!

The girl came skidding into the inn, so excited she clomped snow into the room to the horror of Silverstache, who picked up a mop with a long sigh.

Ishkr took the mop from him.

Oh, sir. A paying customer could never clean the floors. Please sit and allow me.

Ishkr handed the mop to Peggy, who passed it to Inkpaper, who did sigh authentically. Nanette was bouncing up and down, but she bowed to Seve.

Courier, thank you so much for taking my request. I hope you feel it was worth it?

It was more than I bargained for, honestly, but it was a grand adventure. Should I present?

Seve wasnt sure how to do it, and Erin had a suggestion. She looked around.

Lets get you something to drink, first, and food. Calescent! Some of your fried rice for Seve and Erek! Not too hot, but its fricking cold out! You dont have a problem with Goblins, do you, Seve?

The Courier saw a Goblin in the kitchens and did a double-take. He turned to Erin and saw her expectant gaze.

Notthat much, Miss Solstice.

He would have to lie about the Isle of Goblins, even here. Not because he thought Erin Solstice would object, but rumors spread, and a Courier had to keep some secrets. But the rest? Soon, he had a plate full of hot rice, fiery flakes of pepper, and hot beef and a drink in front of him, and Erin called for the fire to be stoked.

Alright, I suggest we let Seve tell his story and say what he traded along the way. Then Nanette can see what the flower became. Deal?

That sounded like the best way to do it. So, Seve found himself sitting as the witch and Mrsha ran over together, excited, and Erin called over a Hobgoblin, a Stitch-girl, a [Princess] and her [Knights], a Drake [Spearmaster], and more.

Was this what hed been searching for? He hoped it was. He checked, you see. Seve waited as Erin made the introductions to him, of countless species, and he laid eyes on the Antinium for the first time and tentatively shook a hand.

I am Seve.

I am Bird. You must have seen many birds, Courier Seve? And you have birds on your skin. Therefore, you are a man of excellent taste, and we must become friends.

So soon?

The Courier eyed the Antinium up and down, and Bird tilted his head.

Erin makes friends faster. Plus, there is a very annoying boy whom you saved, and I am assured it is a good thing.

Sammial Veltras? Hes here?

Ryokas running around, but hes here! Bird, dont bother Seve, hes telling stories. Do you want anything to eat? Oh, and Mrshano stealing his food. Hes from Actelios Salash, and you dont wanna eat that.

Then Seve hesitated, though he kept a smile on his face, and he wondered if he was wrong. But the wary look the girl gave him was just curious, and she began asking what kind of powers shed get. Erin shooed Mrsha away.

Dont be annoying, Mrsha. Seves just like an anti-vegetarian. And hes a great guy. He delivered the cure to Baleros.

She smiled at him, and there wasnt a hint of fear in her eyes. Justcuriosity.

Ah, at last. Seves smile grew until it was genuine, and Erek ooked again and clapped his hands. Was this it?

Another spot where he was not the monster of Tombhome? So he hoped. Even in Reim, with the fearless King of Destruction, they had treated him like another potential foe. In Medain, he was a curio, in Baleros, a fun new thing for the Lizardfolk.

But here he felt like a person in the world, because they did ask him about it. And he responded

Its a great change. A great weight. I chose to eat Tombhomes flesh.

Ew. I get it, I think, but ew. Does itdoes it taste like organs?

Erin shuddered, and Seve laughed.

Its the most delicious thing in the world. But it does lookodd. Would you like to see it?

Maybe later. We are putting food out, and youve gotta be careful. Relc would probably take a bite if you left it lying out without thinking twice.

Hey! Keep the hamburgers rolling, and we wont have a problem. Tombhome, eh? I met a guy like that in the war who took the flesh or whatever you do. Scary as could be. Half the company debated doing it after they saw him walk out of a grinder, buthe had a picture and, wow, I am not hungry any more.

Seve turned with sudden fascination to the Drake, and he thought he had found it. Another fine place, another point on his map worth returning to time and time again.

After all, if he was always the monster of Actelios Salash to everyone, why would he travel? His friends looked for homes, and so did he.

People to befriend. People who would understand. People who, rarely, needed what he could give them.

Perhaps, someday, someone to love. For now, Seve relaxed, well and truly, and fell in love with the inn a bit. He smiled as Mrsha finally spotted the gifts that Erek was placing in front of the [Witch].

Mrsha threw an instant tantrum.

No fair! No fair! How come she gets such amazing stuff and I dont? You have to share!

She reached for the whistle, and Nanette smacked her hand down. The [Witch] looked proud and delighted.

Its all Courier Seves doing, Mrsha. And because I asked. What are these stones? Theyre magical. And this key!

Uh oh.

Erin spotted the key, and her face fell, like any parental figure who realized that a child had just been armed for mischief. But Nanettes face was shining, and she turned to Mrsha proudly.

You cant just let everyone gift you things, Mrsha. Im arming myself for my own adventures. Butwhat is it, and how did a flower become all this?

She turned with eager eyes to the Courier, and he did laugh then and eyed the cup of blue juice he was served.

It looked disgusting, but he took a sip, and it was sweet. So he settled back as Nanette played with a stone in her hands, and everyone gathered around.

Thenhe told them how he got here.

[Worldtraveller Inkfriend Level 46!]

[Skill Vessel: Stormriders Blessing obtained!]

[Title Trader of Fortunes obtained!]

[Title Skill Trinket Trade: Something Better, Something Worse obtained!]

It only occurred to Seve after he woke up in The Wandering Inn with a smile the next day and stretched.

Wait. Does that mean Im not a good trader?

The story was called, in some cultures, the Straw Trader story. And it was a classic tale of a man who started with a piece of straw and, by a series of increasingly convoluted deals, traded his way into fame and fortune.

Nanette knew this, of course, and her scheme paid off. A bag of magic stones, a whistle that called animals to you, and a literal skeleton key?

That was the sort of stuff that any growing girl wanted. However, there was a part of the story that was often forgottenand it was the people Seve had traded with.

In some cases, it was just a new flower growing in Khelts gardens, to the satisfaction of their king. Just a single flower, and Seves presence had been but a small moment in each story he crossed paths with.

Inconsequential.

Cognita Truestone liked her blue pot. It was hers.

Like her hat, she had now acquired it, and she now owned three things in this world. Her hat, a blue pot from Khelt, and Wistram Academy.

She did take a second though, after Seve had headed off on his long journey, to take the pot to her room. There, she admired it for a moment, debated putting something in it, and then reached into the pot with a sigh.

It took her less than a second to peel the folded bit of gilded paper out, and she admired the penmanship.

The bearer of which shall be granted access to Khelt by order of His Majesty of Khelt, King Fetohep, at least once in the next thousand years.

The hidden ticket was a one-time access to Khelt. Cognita Truestone wondered if Seve had known. If he had, hed let the value of the pot speak to any prospective clients. Which had been her and only her.

Cognita rolled her eyes with a sigh and tucked the ticket into her bag of holding. It might be useful.

Idiots.

No one realized that the King of Khelt never sent mere pots out.

The King of Destruction, for his part, had the prized Yellat conveyed to his own gardens where it was buried in hopes it would continue to mature.

Then he convened his war tent and, in good humor, remarked it was well that Seve had taken the Sand Golems away from him.

We have a war to conduct. I am not minded to push in far. I would rather take Nerrhavia apart as I did the west. Last time, they acquiesced more gracefully. This time? Pomle bothers me. Tiqr bothers me.

Yet it stands. So what is our order, my King?

Mars smiled, and Flos Reimarch pointed a finger.

We push. Are they still hunkered down after the last assault, Amerys?

The Archmage was smiling placidly, and Gazi was checking her cracked armor. Orthenon buckled his sword into place as he picked up a spear, and Takhatres tilted his head up.

Yep. And theyre watching us build those damn trebuchets all down the warfront.

Flos Reimarch rubbed his hands, and he turned to his Seven. Orthenon plus Mars, Amerys, Takhatres, and Gazi. Five legends all gathered in one place. In the old days

Good. You fivetake the fortress. As soon as you disable the wall spells, my armies will press forwards with Venith at the head. Zamea splits left, I go right. Time for a rampage.

His vassals looked up, and Gazi exhaled. Mars rotated her shoulders and grinned. Amerys started giggling, and they left the tent.

Six hours later, the Bastion Nevekeh Fortress fell, and the King of Destructions forces entered Nerrhavia properly. And all the while, Flos Reimarch kept pointing out to Trey that he definitely knew how to conduct a battle.

Like that. You did it like that.

Jecrass was at peace. But what a tenuous peace. A third of the kingdom was gone and two monarchs ruled.

Medain was at peace, but it was under Khelts sway. Neither nation could be called whole, but their fates were intertwined.

It wasnt just the feuds. Raeltno longer felt like a [King].

He was less formal, more distracted, and felt like his pretense at being a [King] had been worn away by his captivity and torture, so he couldnt even pretend to be head of state. Yet still.

Jecaina as [Queen]? She wasnt ready. Or if she was, she shouldnt have to be. He walked around his palace, something of a hero, something of a martyr to his people, and all of a failure to himself.

In the end, he had not been a great [King]. But what could he give Jecrass now?

He did not know. The King of Duels was good, no, he was overwhelming in one thing alone. And that was dueling. A poor thing for a [King], unless you were like Flos Reimarch.

Something caught Raelts eye as he passed by Nerrhavia Fallens news channel. They were broadcasting Chandrarian news, though they didnt have the personality of Drassi or Noass or Sir Relz yet.

They should hire that Rmi Canada fellow. Raelt liked the newspaper more, but both stories were the same thing, actually.

This mornings headlines were of oranges. Raelt stared.

Lots of oranges. Oranges, which, he happened to know, had that amazing staining quality even if you just got juice on your hand. Itd turn your skin, well, orange for a day or two even if you washed it right off.

Imagine what it did to expensive silk. Apparently, the palace of Medain had been covered in rotting oranges when High King Perric was hosting a bunch of dignitaries, even Terandrians who hadnt left yet.

Hugely embarrassing. Rotting oranges everywhere. In the soup, in your bed, staining the toilet seat

The mystery of the oranges wasnt a mystery to Raelt, who smiled in great satisfaction at the orange on King Perrics face. Buthow had they gotten everywhere?

There was only one person who could move that fast. Raelts eyes opened, and he remembered her.

Maef.

One of the few people whod helped him at all. No friend to Perric either. His ebullience at Perrics humiliation turned topainful memory. Then Raelt lowered the newspaper.

Shes a prisoner too. No one ever rescued her. That man

His hands tightened on the newspaper, and then Raelt tried to stop himself. But should he? Perric had kidnapped his daughter. He had always been a threat to Jecrass, and now?

There was something Raelt could do for Jecrass after all. The only question washow? He slowly began to think, and Jecaina, chancing upon her father, stopped a second, because the light of determination had come back to her fathers gaze.

But still. Was this a good kings decision? Or a good mans? They were not always one and the same.

The Prophet was not just interested in the gemstones for the sheer lucre. He had intentions, which was to create a crown inlaid with the jewels. It wassymbolic.

Many things were. His people left Medain, and they had never been welcome in the Claiven Earth, but despite their inability to gather support from the High King, they had still gained numbers.

It was time. Death had rolled over Chandrar once, and for every good thing some people said of Khelt, they were still ruled by an immortal tyrant. Their land overflowed with hoarded riches, and if there was any symbol to prove the might of faith

It would be there. Faith moved mountains, and so the People of God marched. Not just for material gain. Not just for fame or to grow their numbers.

God existed. Miracles rained down, and classes came to the People of God. If he existed, then those rules, those commandments, were true laws set in stone. If the Prophet feared one thing, it was that the power he had been granted was also in hand with the punishment for failure.

Divine wrath would fall upon Khelt. Or him. He still woke, sometimes, remembering the hands of the wrathful corpses-spirits reaching for him. Dead men and women rotting and reaching for his very soul, or so it felt. Twice theyd come, both times on a Solstice.

Whispering lies. Demanding fealty.

Faith had saved him, and they had fled. He had yet to hear his own revelation in pure terms, so perhaps he was unworthy.

But those wretched corpses who terrified him? That undead king had to be the culprit. He would scourge all of Khelt to destroydestroy that. One had even whispered allegiance to King Fetohep as he fled.

The Prophet had never seen a worthier foe of God than them.

Some would call the Prophets power an omen of everything this world should strive against. The Antinium would, if they could see his miracles. At least, the old Antinium would.

Others might say the same of Roshal.

But Roshal had always been self-serving. That was it. They were honest about the fact that what they did, they did for their own nation, their own people. Every nation and organization did that.

Roshal just differed on what defined people.

Oh, and they were good about being preemptive. Hence Ierts departure from Roshal. Hence the warship.

They still did business, and the belowdecks were unpleasant to be in. The Gnoll didnt care for it, as it was far different from how the Naga ran things.

The Courier, Seve-Alrelious, had not appreciated the one time hed gone below. The Slavers of Roshal had not appreciated him.

Even if he was stupid enough to want to, Seve couldnt have liberated a warship. They were ready for battle, and the top Masters of Roshal, new and old, had armed this crew very, very well.

In the holds, the new [Slaves] and the ones not trusted to go above were oddly quiet of late. A rarity.

It was not a lack of tears that held them at bay. It was not that things were better. But at least one group sat very, very silent.

Thinking. They were fedenoughunless someone was disobedient, and things would rot fast in this swaying hold where daylight was so rare. Most things rotted.

But that Courier had remarked that Roshal knew Actelios. No one could easily escape slavery. Not Djinni. Only the Death of Chains was any hope, and she was in Rhir and, sometimes, just a dream you wished for in dark hours.

He could not offer them that. But as he had said

It will not break your chains. But if you do eatthey will be afraid to touch you.

Like the Last Light of Baleros, they hid it away. Pondering their choice. Seve-Alrelious had always offered the choice to those who needed it.

The Jungleclad Clan of Baleros had less worries than those Roshal touched. Yet they had some.

Death, predation, hunger.

They had great joys like music, like meeting their cousin, like all people, but even the apes of Baleros had one great depression, at least. One great sadness.

The scrolls of healing were too valuable for their clan to hold onto. They kept two and sent scouts out on a dangerous trek. If they shouted, they would be met and trade could occur.

They could fish. They could make homes. They could scavenge, and yes, the monkeys who took one scroll could communicate and trade.

To varying levels. But they lacked magic. And they lacked one more thing.

The news from the Land of Colors was bad. Monsters had forced all the local clans to flee, and there were otherfolk everywhere. They might have to resettle in the heartlands, and it was already pushing them against Lizardfolk. The Beastkin were friendlier up north, but there were limits to how many could be in one place.

It seemed everything had failed. The dispirited Jungleclad Clan realized that, once again, all their work had been for naught.

They had sent precious metal axes.

They had sent some of their own with scavenged material.

They had worked hard.

The Land of Colors had been a good place that few otherfolk wanted to live near. This unexplained disasterno one had seen the missing clan.

The tower would, again, fail to be built. Perhaps it was time to give up on the dream. If only the voice would stop telling them to try.

The Gazers of Baleros were not affected by The Dyed Lands. Or the local ape tribe. They were superior to both threats, and the other Great Companies were addressing the matter.

What they were not happy about wasJungle Tails. A Great Company re-emerging. Seve-Alrelious was right to wonder why the Gazers hid in the heartland jungles.

It wasnt entirely by choice. But the Gazers, and the Great Company that so few ever encountered, were here for a reason.

Even if the rest of the world had forgotten it.

Yixef did report that the Courier was unlikely to be a spy. Seve-Alrelious had visited Baleros a number of times, as his friend Erek proved, but he was no known friend to the Nagas.

No trespassers. Not even for sweets.

He was reprimanded, if not harshly. But the Eyes of Baleros company was very wary of late.

Thieves were appearing around the world, searching for great artifacts. Searching in particular for something. One half of a whole.

The Jungle Tails company had been defeated by Niers Astoragon, and for that, he had the Eyes of Baleros gratitude. After all, if Jungle Tails returned to power, they would come here next.

They could not, could never be allowed to reclaim what they thought of as theirs. Too many had died and sacrificed everything to stop them, and they tried again and again. Whenever they succeeded

The Lightning Thiefs sacrifice could not be overturned so soon. They had lost one, but the Eyes of Baleros, the Relics that the Eyes of Baleros company had been founded to hold?

The Nagas couldnt have them back. The great concern to the Gazers was that if they only had onewhere was the other damn one? No one had found it, and the hope was it was in the depths of the ocean.

Time had been bought. At great, great cost.

Aaron Vanwell didnt know how. He didnt know who had done it, but he was grateful.

Eternally grateful. Sending a flashlight into the world might be treasonous to some, but his perception had changed markedly since he had first agreed that sharing Earth technology was bad.

Wistram had it. It had Eldavin, and so it felt fairer to share. The Earthers were everywhere.

He was in Wistram, and perhaps he should have left. But Aaron was back to pursuing what had attracted him from the start. Technology and magic, fused.

He was working late at night on a new concept, trying to marry software and magic now, and he knew it would require him to actually further his studies under Eldavins new methods.

Linked rituals, spell circuitsmagic was evolving. Aaron was yawning when he heard the voice.

help.

It was so faint he missed it. Then he heard it again.

help.

Aaron froze. His blood ran cold, and he started from his chair. He looked aroundand the voice whispered.

Three times. A pleaand Aaron didnt know where it wasuntil he saw something.

He had a map of the world on one side of his room, tacked up. And there was a little dot

Aaron stared at it.

Impossible. He was gone! But the voice had called, and Aaron was sure

He listened for almost an hour after that, unable to move or think, but the voice never spoke after that. Only then did Aaron jerk, so tense he was hurt, and stare at the dot. Was that?

He stared at the map and then reached down to his desk. Slowly, Aaron lifted a wand and spoke two words.

[Flame Spray].

He hit the map with fire, so much that it caught the entire piece of paper ablaze, and the smoke and flames nearly set his bed on fire too. Aaron had to conjure water to douse it, then threw open a window. The smoke flew out, and he sat down, dizzy and sick, and only rose to tell his neighbors hed accidentally started a fire.

Then he sat there, staring at the scorch mark on his wall. Aaron Vanwell exhaled.

Eat shit and rot there.

Shakily, he got up. And like that, he was back to it. Only this time, he was now thinking about how to stop something from happening. Hed never asked for this.

Hed been tricked. But if it meant his freedom or notAaron pushed designs around, trying to think. Trying to fight to keep something lost.

Or

How did you kill it?

The Goblins remembered the Eyes of Baleros and what they did. They were neutral parties, unless the Nagas attacked them.

Goblin Kings. Eyes of Baleros.

Every species had their bad moments. Drakes had made Draconic Empires. Selphids had controlled everyone from the inside out. Gnolls had Doomslayers.

The point was seats of power. Havens like the Isle of Goblins. Ways to rebuild or grow stronger. The Nagas got too strong if they got one or both eyes, and no one had managed to destroy the damn things. Well, they were also valuable, or else Izikere was sure someone would have just chucked them over the edge of the world.

She sat on a rock, listening, monitoring her home, and feeling the ocean currents sweeping her island through the ocean in a new path. Knowing it and knowing the dangers was her mission right now.

She was a protector. Greydath was the one who was too impatient to stay. He was a seeker, a hunter of his own kind. Izikere would have preferred to keep things as they were.

But the world was moving too fast to hold still. One of the [Shamans], whom even Izikere considered old, was shouting at someone.

Shut up! Shut up! I changed your poo when you were small!

The person she was shouting at did not like the reminder. The old [Shaman] listened and sneered.

Higher level? Im so scared. Anazurhe, you used to suck on your thumb and come crying to me when you saw bats. Want me to say it louder? Thats what I thought.

The Goblin Lord was smiling. She liked hearing the younger children play, and few things annoyed her. Even the tamborines were just good to hear, because it meant her people were occupied. The [Shaman] listened to the chagrined [Witch]s reply.

She wasnt using a [Scrying] spell. Izikere employed other means, not trusting [Mage] magic. The old [Shaman] speaking for her finally got the upper hand.

Good. Now shush. You send back more sweet things. Dont say is expensive! You greedy little Goblin. We are sending Goblins. To Izril.

The [Witch] fell silent, and the [Shaman] smacked her lips.

Yah. Yep. Too many died. Strong Goblins going. Get ready. No, no lying silent. No hiding. Theyre coming. Get ready.

She lowered the conch shell shed been using and shrugged.

I told her.

Good. We have to move. Somethings changing.

Izikere was restless. Greydath was restless, and his advocacy had turned out to be correct after all. He had seen no ghosts, been visited by no spiritsbut he had seen the New Lands rise. His sword felt like it was talking to him. It had called him north, and she didnt know where hed gone, but some glory-seekers had gone with him, despite knowing how dangerous his journeys were. It had to be.

They needed more Goblin Lords. They needed a King. It was too soon, but they needed one. Perhaps it was time topush one.

Izikere sat, wondering how many Goblins might die, how many she was sending to their deaths. That was what Greydath wanted. Push and push until they were one day free of this madness or the world broke. Was there a third way? If so, their people needed to find it.

She feltuneasy. The Goblin Lord was concentrating her magic. She had not levelled in an age, but she was practicing, refocusing herself. It had been a long time since she had the feeling of dangerous foes on the horizon. They had to be stronger than anyone else. Or if they diedlet the next Goblin Lords be even stronger.

Not everyone had such momentous encounters with Seve, or even correlated it in their heads.

Oh, Adetr Steelfur definitely appreciated a working model of a flashlight, even a magitech one, and how the wiring and battery seemed to work. But aside from the shame of stealing a video of the object and not paying for itthe Gnolls paid it little mind.

In fact, the [Shaman] who had traded the Whistle of Friendship, a Gaarh Marsh trinket, to Seve barely thought about the pillow at all.

It was not exactly a fashionable pillow to him. He completely forgot about it for about a week. That was, until he ended up dicing with a bunch of guests.

Roll them bones! Lets not do gold and make it more interesting.

A half-Elf cackled as the Named-rank adventurer, Colth, and several Wild Wastes Gnolls joined the Horns of Hammerad to play.

Gambling was a terrible thing. At first, they played for snacks and small things, and the [Shaman] got a bag of cookies. Then Ceria Springwalker, the [Prankster], decided to make things interesting.

Ill betmy underclothes that Im wearing right now. Colth?

Ill bet my underclothes.

Stop it.

Yvlon was trying not to throttle both of them. The Ice Squirrel got a bit too many excited wagers, and so did Colth. As the game progressed, a lot of weird things changed hands.

I bet someone elses gold tooth and, uhsomeone elses silver tooth.

Berr slapped down two teeth, and Yvlon, who had been dragged along to learn something, or just to enable his habit, stared at him as she fumbled around.

Why do you have that many teeth?

Hm? Well, theyre free. You just have to punch them out of peoples faces and then pick them up. Its good money. What do you have?

Uhhow about some silver dust for well cleansing? My brother gives it to me.

Silver dust?

The Gnolls muttered, but Yvlon shrugged.

Im not going to use it. You couldthrow it in someones face?

Its worth something. Okay, thats a good ante. Ceria?

My underwear

They chased her off because it was the third time shed tried it. Not everyone had had a good betting run. On the other hand, Ksmvr had gotten fifteen Gnolls to sign an agreement saying theyd plant a tree and dedicate it to him, and he was wearing Colths pants.

Pisces was performing dental work, which was actually fairly in demand.

The Gaarh Marsh [Shaman] had been losing a lot, but the game called to him, so he ran back to his tent to find anything he could trade. When he found the pillow, he raced back, and Ceria laughed at it.

Whats that?

Some pillow I traded a Courier for. Is it good?

I love the design. I think it goes.

It went into the pot, and everyone rolled down. The [Shaman] covered his face as he was kicked out, and the winner was, to her own surprise

Yvlon Byres. She re-collected her bag of dust, Colths pants, and the two teeth with a look that said she really loved winning this particular hand.

Colth, want your pants back?

Ill win them back. Another round?

Yvlon just tossed the pants at Colth and sighed. She did take the teeth because Pisces was shouting he could use themand she took the pillow too. Ceria smiled appreciatively.

Its a nice pillow, Yvlon. Dont toss it. We dont have any high-quality travel gear.

The woman felt at it with her metal hands, and it was soft. She tucked it into her bag of holding with a sigh.

I know, I know. I dont have a pillow either, and my bag of holding is big enough. Who puts a Goblin on a pillow?

Ksmvr raised a hand.

Erin would love it. Perhaps we can keep it to give to her if you do not like it.

Yvlon shrugged. It wasnt the worst idea, and it did feel nicer than sleeping on a pack. That was how she got a free pillow, but she really, in hindsight, could have used some context for it.

So that was the outcome of Seve-Alrelious journey across three continents. Gifts spread around, stories at their turning point, or long tales that might soon find new developments.

A world in motion.

Oh, and there was one last thing, wasnt there? Seves final trade had Azkerash puzzling over the mystery.

I understand the magic, but this?

Oh my. What could that be. I have no idea.

Nerrhavias deadpan tones made the Necromancer look up from his inspection of the strange flashlight.

You know what it is.

What should I ask for this time? What favor? Hmm.

She made a show of thinking as the Necromancer began to lose his cool again. He was sick of her secrets! But somehow, Nerrhavia kept holding all the cards. She gave him a huge smile.

Your problem, Archmage Perril Chandler, is that you fail to plan ahead.

I have agents in every part of the world!

She tsked and corrected him.

You have puppets. I have followers such that millenia after my death, some of them are good enough to send me my possessions. I wonder how I should reward them? By the way, that is what loyalty means. Ill have you prepare a suitable reward, then Ill give you a hint. Though how you missed this with Wistram being as subtle as a knife in the leg is beyond me.

He stormed out of the room, and Nerrhavia watched him go. Taking him down several pegs was not just funbut hopefully humanizing in the right way. If he kept humanizing himself in the wrong way?

Even I have my limits to those I can control. I need vassals. I always had decent ones. I ever had an eye for quality, and he would have been a poor one.

Nerrhavia murmured to herself. She wasnt controlling a puppet, just waiting. It was abundantly clear to her that despite their inequitable relationship, power was also in the reach and breadth of their abilities, and she lacked that.

It was the quality of the gemstone, even uncut, that defined the worth of a person to her. Sometimes they shattered, but you had to risk it. And even then, you had to know how to strike them just right to turn crude ore into a shining blade she could drive into her enemys throats.

Shed been doing her homework and researching and planning, and she had options, but she had needed to get everything in order first. Now?

A little box and a letter appeared on someones desk in the winter. The note was very simple, and the entire thing had come, very normally, through a City Runner.

Though if you asked Fals how hed gotten the delivery, youd go to the Runners Guild, very normally, and theyd say it was a Drake sender in another city.

Only, the Drake didnt exist, and if you tried to find anything else outyoud get nothing.

Chaldion of Pallass had tried, mind you, and so had Manus. Azzy and Nerry and two suspicious Drakes meeting a Courier had prompted an investigation, but a local agent who had gone after them had never reported back.

Chaldion paid attention. Manus did not. Yet even the Grand Strategists best paranoia couldnt have found the delivery that had been made from another city, through innocuous channels, to end up here. It was always hard playing defense when there were a thousand cracks in half a continent.

That was why Nerrhavia was all offense. The only question was how to procure the right tools in this day and age. Quality was one thing. Potential another. Placement? She had chosen a very appropriate person to send the gift she had waited so long for.

The letter was simple. It read, after the brief greeting:

I hope you will accept this small trinket from me as a sign of potential patronage. It is quite valuable, and I hope it serves you well in your endeavors. Consider it a sign of good faith; I will be in touch, and I have always had an eye for talent.

You have had other fine inspirations and mentors who had seen your worth, but never a patron. The Titan of Baleros has a thousand pupils, but he should have looked twice. I have great expectations for you, Olesm Swifttail.

We shall speak soon.

An Interested Observer

The puzzled [Strategos] looked down at the black velvet box and flicked it open. He blinked and murmured as a strange wristband that looked ancient caught the light.

A patron?

Just who was interested in him now? Ilvriss, the Titan, Maviolahe closed his eyes, and then he frowned.

He wasnt stupid enough to put on a random artifact. Hed better have this tested and ask Fals who this had come from. Ohand his eyes strayed to the bottom of the letter.

He was very suspicious, but the end of the letter made him think he had better be serious.

PS. Prepare your army well. Your beaten foe in Hectvals Alliance is about to show fangs. They will begin from the skies. Find some caves and disguise where the bulk of your army lies.

If truehed been getting an uneasy sense on the quiet front as well. Olesm decided to call in Wing Commander Embria and ask Belgrade to check on the foothills. If this was a trap, it was a stupid one, and it wouldnt hurt to have a fallback point.

Things are about to change. As ever.

Olesm sighed. Then he wondered what next month would bring.

Authors Note:

Welladay, Im back.

I might write a longer Authors Note here because I have an entire month to summarize. And aside from a Patreon update a week in, I was actually quiet. I debated posting several times, but I didntbecause I was unsure of how to explain what was going on.

Ive written variations of this note like three times, because its hard to lay things out in a coherent manner. I have realized that Im a bad communicator, both in terms of writing and personally.

This is not reassuring given my career choice, but its fairer to say that I describe the forest without the trees. You can tell that Im not always describing what places look like, and as for food or clothing, I hate it.

So heres what happened: I was writing Gravesong, Book 2 during the month off. As I wrote, I was concerned about the effort and guilty about taking the break, so I threw myself into it.

I wrote, in two weeks, about 180,000 words. Even at top form, that was an insane amount, and while I was not proud of it, I got Arcs 1 and 2 (out of three) done.

Then I crashed. I realized in the third week of the month I might have to write another 100,000 words or more, and I hit a wall. I couldnt finish writing, and I experienced burnout and an inability to continue writing for the first time in eight years.

It was pretty bad, actually. At one point I was rhyming every other sentence because I was so fried, and I was definitely unpleasant to be around in real life. There were incidents.

So, I stopped. I failed my goal, failed to even continue working, and took the next two weeks off as an extended break. Im somewhat recovered, and I definitely needed the time off, but it was the first time I ever had creative burnout that bad. Ive written through it before, but it was a kind of realization I had hit a limitand I had already hit one in realizing I needed time off for Gravesong 2.

Well, now Im in an odd state because I owe the book, but Ive extended my deadlines and Im taking it easier. This chapter back was me working hard to try to get back to normalcy, and I may take more time off soonto write a chemistry chapter in advance and have it proofed by the volunteers, to work on Gravesong 2, but also if I need it.

Seven years? Eight years? Ever since 2016, Ive been working, and its gone beyond my wildest dreams for success, but I cant write a novel in a month, and I can hit burnout like a flaming tire rolling down a hill into a flock of baby ducks. Its good I learned what happens so I can avoid it, but that was a tough month away.

But Im back, and trying to remember that the journey is what matters, and it should be fun, hence this chapter back. Time to experiment, do crazy things, because The Wandering Inn does benefit from me editing and planning, but it also benefits from me being creative and vested.

That was my month of May. Hope yours was informative, if not as stressful.

pirateaba

How the Quarass probably looked when presented with the Sand Golem miniatures by /Brack_Giraffe

Loeri, the City of Ropes by Enuryn the /Enuryn_Nat

Radience, Horns of Hammerad, Fish Shipes, and more by Gridcube!

Cold by /littleonion

Twitter: https://twitter.com/littleonion_art

SystemGlitch has created a track of songs for The Wandering Inn! Ive written multiple chapters while listening to the main theme and Erins, which are my favorite. Give them some support!

Youtube:https://www.youtube.com/@SystemGlitch/

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