Book 9: Chapter 46: S

Book 9: Chapter 46: S

(I am releasing a chapter a day rather than one every 3-4 days. Make sure youre on the right one and you havent missed one! pirateaba)

I hear The Wandering Inn has a beach. We should go visit it.

Such innocuous words caused the Minister of Defense to lock herself in an outhouse with explosive diarrhea for the next half hour. They produced a chill in the air, a terror in all who heard them.

Beach. Four days of beach, after the cooking competition, and word was spreading that Erin Solstice, that crazy [Innkeeper] of Liscor, was back at it again.

With a cooking competition on a beach, no less. As other parts of the world froze their unmentionables off, they watched as chefs competed. It was a broadcast you wouldnt forget, not just because Lasica ended up sweeping the competition with a handsome coconut sweet-n-sour soup improvised with ingredients scavenged around Erin Solstices beachbut because she won via an Orangutan, who tossed his competition into the water as they ran about, dug up their cooking ingredients, sabotaged the competition

Including Lord Tyrion Veltras, who teamed up with an Antinium to the horror and incredulity of the world. The sight of the younger man being shoved face-first into the ocean by Lady Bethal and Mrsha was replayed across Izril.

And that was only the first broadcast of the inn. A certain video recording of Two Ladies, One Fish was being sold on what could only be described as an unofficial blackmarket that was not Wistram-sanctioned.

But back to the beach. A lot of people were interested in it or making their own versions of the beach. In reply to Erins move, Larracel had advertised her hot baths. And Queen Geilouna, the Bedtime Queen, had sand dredged from her beaches and brought indoors and heated up so she and her pets could sleep on her own indoor beach.

It was not, if you had extensive means, impossible to copy Erin Solstice. So dozens of copy-cats began showing off their own beaches, trying to outdo the original.

Anyone knew that copycats were usually less impressive than the genuine article, though. Plus, it was Erin Solstice.

The fascinating [Innkeeper] who had sent that strange message to her fellow Earthers. Her inn was objectively fascinating, and as someone pointed out loudly

She owns the [Garden of Sanctuary]. Multiple gardens. We should visit the inn. Itd be a quick visit. In, out, what do you say?

She fluttered her eyes as the Minister of Defense screamed at her from inside the outhouse.

Absolutely not!

Im going to do it.

That was why it was terrifying. The woman who said these things did notsay things. She said something like, wouldnt it be funny if there was a mountain there?

And then one appeared the next day.

When word spread that she was considering a trip outside, which was the term for anywhere past their borders, someone went running to get her handlers.

There were four people in this entire world who could handle her. One was called Flora, a newcomer from the world of Earth. Two were fellow Deaths: Czauthaqshe, Free Djinni and the Death of Chains, and Serinpotva, the Harpy Queen, the Death of Wings.

The last person that Silvenia, the Death of Magic, Islandbreaker, the Curse of Elves, the former [Archmage] and greatest living spellcaster of this world, respected was the Demon King.

Four people could rein in her worst impulses. That wasnot an easy thing to deal with for the rest of the Demon Kingdom. It wasnt that Silvenia was unreasonable. But it was that no one else in this entire world could stop her when she put her mind to something.

Anyone else you could talk down, reason with, or physically just tackle. Even Named-rank adventurers didnt go on rampagesall the timebecause the consequences would be [Bounty Hunters], [Assassins], rival adventurers, or armies hunting them down.

But how did you stop someone who was considered the enemy of the world, who had the power to conjure armies of foes at the snap of her fingers?

The nightmare of the Blighted Kingdom truly was only held back from doing anything she wanted because it was Rhir. And she, like a piece in chess, could move as she pleased, but her absence or weakness might get herself or her compatriots killed.

Yet when she was antsy

Flora, Silvenias in a mood. Come onnow!

General Bazeth found Flora at a run, and she stopped gossiping with the new Earthers and groaned. They all jumped and looked up as the horned Demon with reddish skin came skidding into their quarters.

He wore magical armor, had horns like a literal demon from her worlds stories, and carried a huge greatsword. When shed first met Bazeth, Flora had nearly shot him. Howeverhe was a surprisingly normal man.

Like many Demons, he was not the evil army of the Demon King, but someone with hopes, dreamsbut eternally at war with the Blighted Kingdom. War made him militant, but he could still weep or laugh, and it was a contrast to what the Blighted Kingdom said about him.

Right now, concern was all over his face. He was panting, and he had run into the Earther-rooms so fast that hed actually conjured a breeze that blew in behind him, scattering pieces of paper.

No, our notes!

A girl from Idaho, Willow, went jumping for the summary of Earths recent history from 2016 to 2024. Flora grabbed at it, and Bazeth apologized as he yanked her up.

I am sorry, everyone. But Silvenia needs Flora. Now. Flora

W-whats she doing now?

Shes talking about leaving for the Outside again. Izril! Shes going to visit The Wandering Inn if no one talks her down. His Majesty needs you.

Why me?

Flora complained even as she broke into a run. They went skidding out of the open-air complex filled with smooth stone, built like a mansion from her world. It was set across the rust-red dirt and in a canyon protected by two barrier-spells. Towers, like radio towers from home, kept the magical forcefields shining strong, emerald and blue light shielding buildings where Demons lived and played.

They were also soundproofed, and Flora glanced upand saw the explosions in the sky, bursting lights. She halted a second, but she was used to seeing that.

Are we under attack?

Theyre launching poisonous Balelight Stones at us again. Nevermind that. Come on! [Speedwind Charge]!

Bazeth took her hand and began running. A [General] using a Skill just to get her to run with himthey went down the street so fast that Floras boots made the flagstones ring.

The road was glass. Unlike the rest of the canyonwhich was just dirt and red stonethis glass pathway had been laid by Djinni. The mansion had been built by Silvenia, and almost every house they passed was either magical or erected with the help of artifacts or Skills.

Very little had been built by hand. Demons had no time to waste on building. They used Silvenias artifacts or other tricks to instantly erect domiciles to live in. The result was amazing homes, some already complete with furniture.

Zelkyrs Instant Golem Mansion was one artifact that someone had. It looked like a model of a fancy mansion which, when placed down, would expand and turn into an amazing retreat complete with servant-Golems. Then you could undo the magic, take it elsewhere.

This was necessary because nowhere in the Demon Lands, save the palace itself and a few landmarks like Monarchs Pass, was constant. The very land shifted as need be; the Demon King could demand new farming land grow or a lake emerge. Like Othius and the Blighted Kingdom, the territory of Demons was completely under the authority of their nation.

Unlike the Blighted Kingdom, though, the Demons had no walls. And their settlements moved because every month, or every year at the latest, the attacks from the Blighted Kingdom would grow so fierce they would need to relocate to buy breathing room.

Just look up and see. Flora, as she ran, saw more starbursts of light against the barrier.

Balelight Stones. The Blighted Kingdom was showering the Demons with them. They had to know it wouldnt break the barrier spells, especially with Silvenia rebuilding them, but they were trying to cover the ground with them.

WhatsBalelightagain?

Flora panted as she jogged, rattling slightly with her shooting vest and a lot of gear that she normally didnt carry. She had ammunition secured at her beltin speedloaders ready to go into the revolver at her sideand it wasnt just for show.

Even here, they might have to fight for their lives at the drop of a hat. Even with Silvenia aroundthe Blighted Kingdom was only half the threat.

The other half was having an Adult Creler unbury itself and try to eat yousomething else Flora had experienced. Three times, shed found herself shooting monsters emerging from below when the Blight of Rhirthe true horror of this continent held back by the Antiniumsent forth horrors.

One time, it had been this serpentine wood that cloned itself again and again. Flora had shot over a hundred of them and run out of ammunition before Silvenia had finally managed to collect them all and hurl whatever it was at the 5th Wall.

Flora had no idea how you grew up like this. But the Demons thought that Flora and the Earthers, with a few exceptions, were the gloomy ones.

They were cheerful in this continued war, because of the Deaths, who were living legends to them, because of the solidarity between species. Many were happy-go-lucky, living in the moment.

Others, like Bazeth, were warriors dedicated to one cause: holding off or even one day beating the Blighted Kingdom.

Flora, as an Earther, was a strange, partly unwilling visitor to this eternal conflict, but she had given her support to the Demons. She had heard there were Earthers, people from home, on the Blighted Kingdoms side.

She wondered what they knew of this conflict. Flora was a girl from Texas, and the Deaths of Rhir and Demon King were, uhsignificant to her culturally. But she couldnt see this as anything but an insane war of politics turned into a stalemate that the Blighted Kingdom was perpetuating to keep its authority in Rhir.

Then againthe Demons defended themselves by killing thousands at times. They were long past reconciliation. Long past words.

King Othius IV on one side. Paranfer, guarded by the Five Walls of Rhir, each one capable of hellish destruction.

The Demon King and his Deaths on the other side, each one of the most powerful beings in the worldbut only three against a worlds resources and might.

Silvenia, Czautha, Serinpotva. Flora knew them all; she had seen them in hibernation, wounded beyond belief after the last great war with the Blighted Kingdom a century and a half back. But when she had touched Silvenias corpse and seen how much poison ran through her veins, the half-Elf had stared at her, even in her coma. Flora hadsaved her life.

With an epinephrine injector.

It sounded stupid, and Flora had said outright that there was no way a simple anti-allergen pen, even an expensive one for her dad, could save the Death of Magic. Silvenia had been dying of countless poisons.

Howevershe had handed it to Silvenia, and the Death of Magic had slowly cloned it, then told the Demon Kings [Healers] to distill it. It had taken two weeks for Silvenia to manufacture what she wanted.

She had cloned the Epipen, made two, and kept the original for Flora. The medication meant for her father in case he got stung at workhe was deathly allergic to bees, and it was a matter of life and death, so she had picked this up for himwas small.

But potent. So Silvenia had cloned it six more times and had the [Healers] create a vial of the valuable liquid after breaking the pen apart and collecting it all. Then shed cloned that vial three times, each time substituting raw mana for the valuable epinephrine.

Skills had boosted the medications already potent abilities until it became something like a panacea. It had still taken two months for Silvenias toxic body to begin clearing the poison out, but the [Healers] had described it like a miracle.

Silvenia could have recovered in another century; this medication from Earth had sped the process a millionfold. While she was wounded, all her power was spent keeping herself, Czautha, and Serinpotva alive. But the more she recovered, the more mana she could divert to speeding her own healingand that of her comrades. Flora had tipped the scales enough to bring back the Deaths of Demons.

The Blighted Kingdom should have given her a medal. If theyd known what had happened exactly, Flora was sure they would have sent it attached to a Deathslayer Arrow.

That was the power of Demons. That was the scale of the Demon Kings forces. You wanted bullets? Silvenia could clone bullets.

She claimed the most expensive thing to clone, magic-wise, was the epinephrine and laptops, because the batteries required so much energy. The pen, she suspected, was because the ingredients were hard to get naturally. Even if not the epinephrine itself, the other components or perhaps, even more ironically, just the plastic were the real mana cost.

Even so, it was a lot easier than duplicating artifacts, and Silvenia was the greatest [Mage] in this world.

Similarlythe woman who swooped down towards the running Bazeth and Flora could have lifted an airplane of Earth and flown it around without a jet engine powering it.

Czautha, the Death of Chains, was not as powerful a spellcaster as Silveniabut she was literal magic. She was nigh-invincible, could turn herself into a living storm, and survive things that no mortal could.

Djinni. The enslaved race of Chandrar. She passed through the barrier overhead.

I heard Silvenias thinking of leaving. His Majesty summoned me. Flora.

She nodded at the girl she credited with helping save her, which was why Flora, of all the Earthers and Demons, had sway over Silvenia. Bazeth glanced at Czautha then up at the exploding lights across the barrier.

The Balelight Stones

I neutralized the effects. I understand your concern, [General], but we have dealt with them before.

He ducked his head, embarrassed, but Czautha just smiled. Flora panted.

What areeep!

Czautha just picked her up and carried her. She looked like a half-real woman, half purple skin, half smog, carrying the great blade and shield on her back, and she expanded as she picked up Bazeth and sped up.

The Death of Chains flew like a storm across the settlement, calling out for the Demons not to be alarmed, it was just Silvenia, as they headed towards her abode. They passed out of a barrier, and Flora flinchedbut Czauthas body engulfed her in protective magic. They were heading to Silvenias domain, near the palace, where the most protections lay.

And most Earthers. There were only about fortythe reports were that the Blighted Kingdom had over a thousand, and it seemed their summoning, or whatever theyd done, had concentrated the majority there. The ones who had been foundalivein Demon lands had just been scattered by the spell.

Most were shellshocked, terrified from what theyd seen before they had been rescued, or processing what had happened. Flora was trying to understand what was happening on Earth.

They had noticed Earthers were missing. Riots, wars, plagueit sounded like the end of her world because no one could tell where the children were going. It might be safer here than parts of Earth right now.

What is the Blighted Kingdom throwing at us, Czautha? Balelight Stones? I dont know that.

Czautha looked grimly upwards as more faintly glowing stones fell. They shone a pleasing yellow, and they looked like, well, [Light] stones. But Floras [Dangersense] kept screaming as they landed in the soil that wasnt protected by barrier spells.

Poisonous stones. They wont kill you today or tomorrowbut if you stand near a large one, youll fall sick and die quickly. So many on the ground? Countless Demons have died, skin melting, their very bonesrotting?

Wait. Is thaturanium? Is that radiation? We cant be here! Get us away! Get us

Flora began writhing in horror as she realized what Czautha described. The Demon gently held onto Flora.

Calm yourself, Flora. My body protects you, and Silvenia can cure it. Its the scouts and anyone outsideand the landwhich suffer. The Blighted Kingdom can throw worse at us.

We should hurl Vorepillars back. Or reply in kind.

Bazeth muttered darkly, eying the now-terrible glowing stones littering the ground. Czautha just shook her head.

We strike decisively, General. The Burnished Court would love if we tried to match them insult for insult. They have the resources. We do not.

Of course, Death of Chains.

He was abashed, and she smiled at him.

Focus on Silvenia, Bazeth. I think shes gone slightly insane from having to duplicate all the necessities day in, day out.

They were headed to the palace, and sure enough, Flora did see signs of Silvenias magic everywhere. Not just in the spelled barriers or amenities like cold air runes or food, which came from her ability to create self-sustaining gardens.

Silvenia had been making scrying orbs again. They hacked into Wistram News Network without being traceable. A Demon was waiting for the rain of Balelight Stones to stop. He had a cart full of two hundred scrying orbs and was watching the news from them.

Unlimited production. Nigh-unlimited potential.

Limited patience. Limited to one woman. And she was crazy.

Im going.

You cant. Please! Someone stop her!

The Minister of Defense was screaming from inside the outhouse at a floating woman with half a face. The other half was magical flesh, and if her robes shifted, you could see her internal organs, half in place, regrowing, as magic kept her from expiring on the spot.

Silvenia had taken more wounds that refused to heal than Flora could count. One eye was just gleaming, condensed mana. She was millenia old, radiated power like an aura, and silver-haired. Right now, she was floating upside-down around the outhouse, taunting the Minister of Defense.

About three dozen Demons were trying to stop Silvenia, pleading with her or trying to literally lasso her with anti-magic ropes. There were also half a dozen Earthers who were not helping.

Silvenia! Can I go to the inn?

Why not? Hop on, Frederic. Though you cant stay. The Blighted Kingdom will just kill you or torture you if they realize youre from here. But why not? Anyone else want to go? Hands

Silvenia counted as seven Earthers threw up their hands, including one hopping up and down.

Silvenia, Lady Silvenia, take me please, please?

Oh no. Flora groaned as Czautha landed, and Bazeth strode over. Some of the new Earthers werewell, weird.

To her. She had emerged in Rhir to find the Deaths of Magic in stasis, to nearly be killed by suspicious Demons thinking she was a killer from Rhir until Bazeth took her to the Demon King and he heard her out.

She had been afraid, suspicious, and even fought at 5th Wall. The new Earthers had come as a community, more or less, and with Silvenia and the Deaths already active, rebuilding the Demons defenses.

Flora didnt want to say it was easierbut it was definitely easier. Silvenia, again. And Serinpotva.

The Death of Wings landed like an explosion of feathers and panted, slightly, as Czautha flew over to her.

Silvenia. Are you causing trouble?

Serinpotva, the Last Harpy Empress, was as huge as a house, physically bigger than both other Deaths unless Czautha grew, and mighty. She was a ruler, and unlike Czautha, she was a mighty warrior, but not a dedicated shapechanger. Nor was she a spellcaster like Silvenia, though she could cast magic.

She was a [Leader], an [Empress], and her harpies cut through the air like fighter jets when she was awake, some fearlessly streaking through the falling Balelight, protected and empowered by her Skills.

Oh, Serinpotva and Czautha and Flora? Minister, youre annoying. I cant do anything fun without being managed. Well, manage this. Besides, I was going to invite you all to come with me.

Silvenias eyes were, sometimes, a bright yellow-green, like the swirling depths of some of the stars in the night sky. Other times, Flora swore they shifted depending on her whim. She covered her injuries with an illusion so she looked merely scarred, then twisted her fingers around.

Aaaah! Stop! Please!

The outhouse left the groundthen began to rotate. Much to everyones horror. The Minister of Defense tried to leave, but the door was sealed.

Silvenia. Enough. She is doing her job. Leave her be.

Serinpotva, unlike Silvenia, was serious and snapped. The magic went dead, and a smelling, covered Minister rolled out of the outhouse as Serinpotva canceled Silvenias magic.

Ew. [Cleanse].

Silvenia pointed as the Minister lay there, shuddering. The Demon gagged as she was cleanedthen stood up and hid behind Bazeth and Flora as Czautha lifted her hands.

Peace. Silvenia, youve gone mad from duplicating mana stones. Whats this about a beach?

Hello, Flora! Hello, dear Serinpotva. Czautha, Im not mad. Just bored. I was thinking about going on a vacation. Its cold and wintery, and I need to sit on a beach to keep warm.

Silvenia shivered ostentatiously as some of the Earthers cheered, and the Demons and other two Deathsstared around pointedly.

It was cold, yes, but the Blighted Lands of Rhir was largely snowless at the moment. Even Winter Sprites didnt like it here, and any natural snow was oftenblack. The rivers were not to be drunk from, at least on the Demons side, without purification magic.

Silvenia snapped her fingers behind her back, and snow began falling from the sky.

See? Snow.

Flora kept her face as straight as possible. Dont humor her. Dont

Snow, snow! Can you do a blizzard, Lady Silvenia?

One of the Earthers shouted in jubilation at the pristine, white snow. Silvenia chuckled louder.

Why not? Czautha could do it bettershe actually knows how the air currents and condensation works. I just do this

Another snap and more snow fell, a snowdrift ploughing down to the delight of childrenand Earthers.

Please stop.

Serinpotva was resigned, as an old comrade of Silvenia would be. The Death of Magic could beerratic. Easily distracted, even whimsically silly if not at war.

She had multiple faces. The serious Death of Magic that Flora had first met, struggling to hold onto life. The woman who had set ruin to 5th Wall, the terrifying Demon that the world knew her as.

And this, the Silvenia who appeared amongst Demons.

At least, in part. It wasnt like there were multiple personalities in her, just facets she showed off. Flora tried to be reasonable as Bazeth and the Minister of Defense nudged her forwards. The woman with Corusdeer horns hid behind Flora like a shield as the [Gunslinger] spoke.

Silvenia, what if we did something else? You couldreview the Earth history everyones working on. 2024 is when things got weird.

Oh, Flora. Thank you for trying. But why think of Earth whenwe could see it? A little bird tells me theres something fascinating at the Meeting of Tribes, Czauthaqshe. How would you like to see Earth in person? Beyond even my ability to guess?

The Djinnis magical mist-body grew brighter with interest. She could shapechange, but preferred the half-cloud woman. Other Djinni chose different forms, but each tended to have a handful that they regarded as their identities. Her body grew greener, and she sprouted two long, tufted Centaur ears.

Whats this now?

Czautha.

Serinpotva, the most visibly old, turned and glowered. She was half-bird, half-woman, with great wings and a Human face. She looked annoyed that her partner was getting distracted. Czautha turned red with embarrassment.

Oh, come now, Serinpotva. I hear the [Innkeeper] that contacted me also has the [Garden of Sanctuary]. Your ancestors legacy. Wouldnt you like to see it? Mayhaps you could claim it back.

The Death of Magic was cunning, and Serinpotvas wings opened and closed.

It did not come to me. I am no thief, and much as I would like to see Shetas domain, it is dangerous beyond rationality.

Ive gathered enough mana. Come on, theres great reason to it. Are you a Harpy or a cowardly Garuda? Do you want to hide behind our barriers like an Oldblood Drake?

Silvenia

The Harpy Empress was getting annoyed. Flora raised her voice.

Silvenia, isnt it irresponsible to go off like that? The Demons rely on you. If you got hurtwhat would we do about the Balelight Stones? What about the Antinium and the war plans?

The Demon leadership nodded as Silvenia tried not to scowl at Flora. She was wavering, and Flora thought she could get the Death of Magic refocused; she only got urges like this every week or two. But Flora had forgottenshe was no longer alone.

And today really wasnt about Flora.

Silvenia! Silvenia! Thank you for the snow!

Someone was dancing about as Flora tried to be the voice of reason. And that was another Earther, but with cat ears.

A catperson?

Well, not a Beastkin, but they had cat ears. One of the Earthers, Frederic, had bright blue hair, his formerly crooked teeth were straight, and he looked like the protagonist from one of the cartoons he liked.

A video game character. It wasnt just an illusion. A third Earther had begged Silvenia for three inches of height and gotten twobecause it hurt like hell to grow, even with magic.

She was the purveyor of miracles. Even Demons didnt usually ask her for bodily transformation magic because her time and might was limited, but for the Earthers, Silvenia had few limits.

She couldand hadtransformed them into actual animals with polymorph spells. She had given some magic wands and indulged their whims. Flora herself could have asked for almost anything and gotten it.

She may have asked for a pair of boots that let her fly for up to sixteen minutes each day. Silvenia had been about to make proper Boots of Flying, but shed been ordered by the Demon King not to spend a week on the project.

Now, Flora was a responsible young woman invested in the war. Not all the Earthers were ready to do battle or fight or had that personality. Not yet.

But they had value, even if some Demons had seen them as feckless nuisances at first. Indeed, one of the most valuable had earned a class that sounded stupid when you heard it.

[Pillowfriend]. That was the Earther with cat ears, who was running around after Silvenia like, well, a lost cat, which he sometimes was. And he was valuable because he could get Silvenia to fall asleep. The Death of Magic would sometimes just forget or drink wakeful tonics or cast spells until she exhausted herself.

Howeverhe was, right now, getting in Floras way as she tried to reason with Silvenia because he tended to encourage Silvenia to do more. And the other Deaths, who seemed bemused by the interest of Earthers. Demons held them with respect and a bit of fear at times, like mythological heroes, so they all seemed pleased by the attention.

Even Serinpotva. The little figure approached her as Silvenia argued with the Minister of Defense and Flora.

Great Serinpotva, may I ask a question of you?

Yes? Rinu?

The Harpy bent her huge head, and the cat-boy fidgeted.

Can II know youre busy, Your Majesty, and that youre a legend and hero, and Im just a dumb kid from another world. Im sorry if I bother youbut I really want to knowcan I hug your wing, please?

The Harpy Empress gave Rinu a long, confused stare, and several Harpies around cawed angrily.

You dare? Her Majesty is?

Quiet. Yes, you may.

Serinpotva simply held out a huge wing. She let the Earther pet it gently, then embrace it. And she smiled.

Its so soft. Andoily?

Oil keeps my feathers from drying and the water from soaking them. You all may feel it, and you others.

She spoke to the Earthers and Demons, who clustered around. They were wary of her, but it seemed that Serinpotva actually enjoyed the attention. The one called Rinu was hugging onto her wing with his entire body, dwarfed by her, when Czautha harrumphed.

She picked him off and put him to the side, where he beamed. Protectively, the Djinni shooed everyone else away.

You are injured, Serinpotva.

My wings are fine, Czautha. We are more like ideas, terrible avatars of destruction to Demons. It is good for us to be people. Or are we to be worshiped like the Blighted Kings minions?

That drew the Djinni up, and she floated back, scowling as she stared at the ground.

Those wings are mine to hug. They can hug your talons.

The Harpy rolled her eyes and nudged her consort as a few Djinni flying around with tools laughed as they overheard. They worked or did deliveries fearless of the magical death-rain. One raised a huge, obsidian hand.

Czauthaqshe, can you share the Death of Wings with us? I, too, would like to touch Her Majestys claws if nothing else.

A beaming Djinni, who seemed unsure how to smile or jest properly, looked worried for a second that Czautha would take offense, but she just turned to the giant obsidian man.

Keep practicing flying, Azam. I wont share everything I own with you.

She protectively hovered in front of Serinpotva, and the little Earther looked worried hed upset the Death of Chains. But Serinpotva just pecked Czautha sharply and quickly on the arm.

Ow.

[Royal Griffin Peck]. Be nicer. I was told it was this childs birthday.

Oh

Czautha hesitated and looked down. Flora herself turned incredulously. It was hard to match up dates, but it had apparently been sixteen days to his birthday when he was taken, and celebrations were celebrations regardless of interdimensional travel.

Still. How did Serinpotva know that?

The Death of Wings paid attention to dates, especially birthdays, like she did to maps, names, distance, and time. She was a historian and had more maps and books and stories in her nested domain than anyone else in the Demon Kingdom.

In fact, she was more interested in Floras account of Earth and recent history than anyone else, and she had even asked some of the Earthers to put on a student-demonstration, modeling the United Nations or politics so she could understand the dynamics of another world.

And learn and implement. She had already insisted that Silvenia use some of her magic to try and create mechanized industry, hence the Death of Magics boredom. Harpies were, at this very moment, pecking at nuts and bolts as Demons with more useful digits screwed together a simple conveyor belt.

If its his birthdayI suppose its fine. Djinni dont celebrate birthdays, though. Every centurystop pecking me, Serinpotva. I understand. And at least we have your conveyor belts. They smell of oil and metal, though. Are you sure this is more important than Silvenia making mana stones?

Mana stones fed Djinni, who needed lots of magic even if they generated it. Excess mana was one of the things that enabled them to reproduce or grow, so the two had been vying for Silvenias abilities.

Yet they were not parasites, and Serinpotva replied calmly.

It may be worthless here, unless we set up a dimensional domain, but the ability to create at scale is the foundation of great empire. If we can trivialize some of Silvenias workI have at least secured enough food for this winter.

Her Harpies had been diving over the sea and harvesting fish off the safest coast of Rhirthe opposite end of the Blighted Kingdom. Rhir was close to The Last Tide, the edge of the world, but also to the Empire of Drath and the north of Baleros.

Neither area was as hostile to the Demons, and if they had any allieswell, neither Dullahans nor Drowned Folk nor Drath would ever declare friendship with Demons for fear of reprisal. But there could be at least neutrality and even trade, if secretly.

Rinu was bouncing up and down with another question since that was, apparently, his birthday gift.

Lady Czauthaqshe?

Just Czautha. I am no [Lady], nor do I like the title. What is it, Rinu? Ask your question. Its a gift since I did not know it was your birthday.

Can I askyoure a legend fighting for those weaker for you, for those who are chained and oppressed. Your consort is an Empress of Harpies, and your friend is an all-powerful Archmage. But youre friends! Do youthis is my questiondo you have a favorite way to spend time together? Or a favorite thing youve done together? A favorite memory?

Of all the questions to askCzauthas brows rose, and she and Serinpotva looked amused.

See? Earthers have a perspective Demons have lost. Go on. Though if you mention my wings, I will peck you.

The Djinni sat cross-legged in the air as she thought a second.

Hm. Memories are difficult, Rinu, friends. Many are painful. I could saythe moment I broke my chains and came here, looking for succor and found friendship. Or perhaps great triumphs like the death of my foes. But that would be a warriors answera lie.

She closed an eye and heaved a deep sigh as her body changed to water, becoming like a breaking wave, a Water Golem, tears of water across her face and eyes.

In truth, my fondest memories are that of the other Deaths, when we sat and spoke of dreams. Of hopes. Yet the other Deaths before me havedied. So these memories are bitter. But oh so precious.

Rinu almost burst into tears, and Czautha cracked one eye open.

Argh. I suppose I have forgotten how to be kind. Dont cry.

There. You see? You should spend more time with the Harpy chicks. It grounds you. We must not be tyrants. Thank you for the question, little one.

Serinpotva patted Rinu on the head with one wing, then enfolded Czautha with another. Both Deaths paused, then, and turned sideways.

Silvenia, the Death of Magic, was older than both, and if you wanted to speak of grounding, of connections with her mortalityshe beckoned with a smile.

Are you asking them your questions? Wheres mine? Perhaps I should give you more than one, my napping pillow. Czautha, Serinpotva. How about it? A grand journey.

He danced around excitedly, trying to think of one as she waved at her Deaths. Just one Earther among many, and it was the girl with the gun who had roused the Giants. But for todayhe asked the questions that even the other Demons and Deaths wanted to know. Czautha heaved a huge sigh.

I could indulge the idea. His Majesty will be wroth. Serinpotva?

The Harpy Queen was normally the most defensive of the lot, but she fanned her wings idly.

Daring is needed in this new age. Caution would have us dead. I see part of Silvenias reason. Give me three hours to make ready.

With that, she took off, and Silvenia clapped her hands in delight. Then she flew off as Flora groaned, and the Minister of Defense tried to reason with Czautha. But it was truethe Death of Chains held out one hand.

Silvenia seems mad or spontaneous at times, but she is cleverest of us all, if not wisest. We have done this before, Minister, General, Flora. And we must not stay here. Look

The rain of Balelight continued. Czautha could fly amidst it, change her nature so the deadly light empowered her, or change into a variation of it herself. But the Demons? This land? She spoke somberly, thinking of her brothers and sisters in Chandrar and the rest of the world, waiting for her. The magnitude of their foeand they had built more walls, not less, over time.

We cannot continue on the defensive. We must have allies. The New Lands and moreI could almost wish for this calamity on Winters Solstice to distract the foe from us. I will tell His Majesty. But we must go.

The Demons did not argue overlong after that. If any Death died, let alone all three, they might be finished. But such was Rhir, a razors edge. They had to trust the Deaths.

Well, Bazeth and Flora let it go. But the Minister of Defense went to harangue Silvenia, and she pointed a finger at the Minister.

[Polymorph: Dog]. [Polymorph: Cat].

She turned her into a furious, huge Tibetan mastiffand hit Rinu with a spell that turned him into a cat, much to his delight as he bounded around. Silvenia looked around.

Anyone else want a spell? Anyone else have a comment? Because I could happily hit you with all kinds of transformation spells. Polymorphing is the nice one. No? Thats what I thought. Im going to my tower. Come on, cat.

The cat raced off as the dog howled and was restrained from being further insulted by several Demons. And now, the question.

The question, the burning question in the cats mind, as Silvenia flew back to her tower, was one the rest of the world might have. Fellow Archmages, curious historians. If you could ask Silvenia anything at all

What would it be?

When she returned to her tower, Silvenia floated over to a hammock shed strung up between two pillars. Then she released the [Flight] spell, lay back as a cat, an actual black cat with two white tufts on its ears, meowed.

Aha. Outside. Id bring you and Flora, but I fear youd never survive the journey. Good work, Rinu. Three hours? Thats perfect for

She began to yawn almost immediately.

questions. [Greater Translation]. Just give me one second to nap. Okay? My precious pillow

The cat meowed gently, and Silvenia put her head back.

Her eyes fluttered as magic sprung up around her in this tower next to the Demon Kings palace. Protective wards that were set to go offand the Death of Magic began to sleep, and snore, within seconds of lying down.

As ever, the cat lay there for a long while, petrified, trying not to disturb her sleep, but Silvenia, when she did sleep, slept like a log until someone called her name. So the cat eventually stared around the tower where Silvenia worked from.

It looked crazed, half-exposed to the elements, magical rooms hovering without proper stairs, dimensional magic stapled together.

Youd be wrong to think it was a representation of Silvenias mind. To hear her tell it, they were her different abodes and workshops shed reclaimed by literally ripping them from their foundations when she rebelled against the Blighted Kingdom and left Wistram. Her tower was literallya tower shed yanked out of Wistram.

Death of Magic. Death of Magic. Purveyor of more war crimes than there were in most books about conduct in war. Seeding the land with Creler eggs was what Silvenia did for fun. So it was amazingor perhaps predictable?that she had her admirers.

Silvenia kept sleeping, and after an hour, the cat had to pee. He left the hammock and padded around, falling down stairs because Rinu had no real idea how to control a cats body like a cat. He did not land on his feet, but it didnt really hurt.

The power to turn someone into a cat. The power to do so muchin this modern day and age? She didnt fit with the world, but Silvenia claimed she was just like a Dragon, Giant, or even Great General Dionamebut better.

She was a relic of another era, and perhapsone yet to come. Accordingly, her tower showcased an oddly modern mix of amenities.

Oh, a lot of old magic like the tower itself being of stone, or suits of armor taken from foes hanging up, plundered tapestries, and a picture of all the Blighted Kings and Queens shed seen killed.

But alsomage-pictures. Images plucked from Silvenias memory, framed on the walls, beautiful pictures from lives of past friends. The cat stared up at laughing [Mages] in school, her first glimpse of Nerrhavias Fallen, gleaming in the sands, an angry Kraken

Krakens are as deadly as Dragons, you know. More, perhaps, given their size, but Dragons are nimbler, able to concentrate their force. You asked me how many ancient immortals are left in this world? Krakens, certainly, and I wouldnt be surprised if the Wyrms werent all dead. I met two before their deaths. One was named Calthusveri, and he tried to steal my magic. Theyre dangerous, cunning, and even we Demons might hesitate to ally with one.

The cat jumped and nearly went tumbling off the balcony where it was staring at the pictures, and Silvenia caught him. She was yawning; she must have slept an hour, but waved off the urgent meows.

Dont be silly. I got an hours nap, and I always use [Time Slow] to sleep. You gave me restand you have questions. Now, where shall we have them? Ahaaha.

She flew higher, up to the top of her tower, and into a room that Erin Solstice would have recognized. It had the same blank look as the Garden of Sanctuary that had held the beach, and sure enough, Silvenia began conjuring sand and water and sunlight.

She must have had an elementalists workroom. A powerful one if it can create waves and sun and shine. I wonder if she found anything in it? I wonder if I knew the Archmage who owned it, or just[Mage]. There we are. Sand. Beach. Drink?

She snapped her hand, and both she and Rinu stared at a cup of water. Silvenia had created the crystal cup and water, and she sipped from it.

Mm.

She paused. The cat stared at her. Silvenia took a longer gulp.

R-refreshing. Need some?

She poured him a bowl. Then coughed. Then Silvenia scowled.

[Teleport].

She vanished in a pop and reappeared four minutes later with drinks.

Magic cannot create good food except the hard way. The same with friends and art, really. Here.

She had looted an Earther-creation, a milkshake, and sipped it as the cat had some too. It meowed after a second, and Silvenia nodded.

[Greater Translation]. Another spell from bygone eras, both in magnitude andneed.

Whats that? Why do I know [Greater Translation] if everyone speaks common? Silly cat. What about Drath? What about the languages of magic? Or Gnollish script? Orthe fact that there are and have been other nations with distinct languages? Goblins are one, but there aregroups that evolve without contact with the majority of races. And those had their own language.

The cat tilted its head, and Silvenia yawned again as she stretched out, tanning her ruined flesh in the sun.

Yes. Im young, you know. Young by the standards of my day. I still feel like a girl, just with more power and experience. When I was a little half-Elf, the [Archmages]real [Archmages]humored me with tales of the past. And some said that the other lands, other dimensions, had strange folk.

Meow?

Oh, youll see them if I ever use [Greater Teleport]. I have to pass through places that arecompressed in another way. One step there is a thousand here. Thats how the spell works, not that anyone knows it. Dont think to find any peoples there, though. Most of the lands we now use to transit through are dead. War broke them, and those that remain are being found only now.T/his chapter is updated by nov(ê(l)biin.co/m

She rolled her eyes, amused.

Another reason why I wanted to meet the [Innkeeper]. I doubt I shall.

Meownya?

No, the beach was just the excuse to annoy the Minister of Defense. Theres little profit to going to that inn. Its too dangerous and puts her in danger. I would like to, if only to see these Free Antiniumthey did not speak the common tongue until I translated. Though Mirrex, that [Bard], was the first to master our language. Annoyingly fast.

This was the real stuff, the secrets in the veins of time that Silvenia had. She was, right now, in a good mood, and she eyed the cat.

Since Im in such a good moodIll let you have three questions instead of one. Three real questions. Are you ready?

He had been up all night thinking of one, and the cat nervously meowed back. Silvenia listened and laughed.

Question 1. Dear Silvenia, if I may ask you, whats your class and level? So many people boast about it, and Im a [Pillowfriend], but you?

She began to smile and the cat ran around, meowing with excitement. English was not his first language, but they learned so quicklyit wasnt translating cat that was hard, just the deluge of words. In meow-form.

I know you dont like bragging when someone is praising you, but youre the legend who fought Archmages, Crelers, Dragonsdid you fight Dragons? There is no one who loves or knows more magic than you, and I betyoure over Level 80. You have to be!

The cat rolled around, then sprang up and sat there, staring at Silvenia with shining eyes.

Tell me Im right, Silvenia? I want to tell everyone about you!

She ended up laughing for a good minute as she lay on her fake beach, then finally sat back up, still chuckling.

What a huge question! There are [Strategists] in Othius courts who would tear out both eyes for an honest answer, and you want to know? My class and level?

He began to apologize, and she shushed him.

I dont mind. I am over Level 80. But not over Level 90.

What? Whaaaaat?

The cat ran around, screaming, and Silvenia laughed so hard she nearly rolled into her conjured surf. She beckoned the cat over.

Oh, yes. It makes sense, doesnt it? I am not Level 90 plus, or I would have sunk the Blighted Kingdom myself. But I am nothere is a good perspective for you. Serinpotva is one grade below me, but she is an [Empress], and our powers are not the same. She, I, and Czautha are the lot who can fight Dragons. I have fought them, but never warred, because I too was born in an era when they were waning.

She sighed longingly.

No, I had them as teachers, mainly, and I respected them greatly. Yet consider: the greatest of mortal men, like Flos Reimarch, are probably over Level 60. The nightmares of Chandrar besides me are the likes of Azkerash, Belavierrand I would put them at Level 70. Perhaps the Archmage of Death has gained beyond that, but I doubt it.

Neow?

Silvenia waved a hand.

He was a lich. They said he died, but a mysterious Goblin Lord practicing Necromancy killed Zel Shivertail? I always assume a [Necromancer]s alive. Thats sort of their specialty. That and huge armies. Dioname, that odd woman, was likely close to that level, or again, one rung below. She looked like she was taught by an immortalbut she was young. So is Azkerash. Theyre literal prodigies.

Heah?

The cat did the best job of huh it could with its mouth. Silvenia tapped it on the nose.

Yes, two hundred years or a few hundred is a prodigy! If you gain immortality, even half of it, your levelling slows. They are both new to their power. Which is why Dioname could be brought down. That Eldavin is another matter entirely. But no more secrets! Ask me another question.

She rolled over, eyes bright, and the cat could have asked about the Creler Wars. Or the Antinium. Or Silvenias opinions about the existence of Vampires, or if she remembered the Circle of Thorns or the Eyes of Baleros.

Meow nyn. Meow Snyamia, meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow? meow, meow! Haeck meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow, meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow.

Meow meow meow meow meow meow, meow meow meow meow meow meow, nyime meow meow meow meow meow meow, meow meow meow meow meow meow, meow meow Snyamia, meow meow meow meow meow meow. Meow meow meow meow, meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow, meow nyrar meow meow meow meow, meow hssk meow. Meow meow nyime meow meow Snyamia! Nyam meow meow meow!

Meow meowt meow meow meow meow meow meow meow, meow Snyamia meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow? Meow meow meow, meow meow meow meow meow, meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow. Meow meow meow? Meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow, meow meow meow, meow meow shmnkt meow meow meow! Meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow meow?

Silvenia laughed as she hurried everyone into chairs and seated herself.

Ignore her. Ive known the Quarass, and she is always reasonable. Khelt, less so. Thank you for joining me. Czautha will kill me, because she wants diplomacy, but all I want to do is talk Earth. We have twenty-nine minutes and twelve seconds, and so lets begin.

The three monarchs and Silvenia paused one second, then Flos began speaking.

Do you wish for an alliance?

Khelt will not parlay with Demons in any visible way.

Nor Germina. Though it seems the Blighted Kingdom was the one who may have summoned the Earthers, including Trey and Teres. They have thousands.

The Quarass murmured, and Flos brows darkened.

Then the ritual that killed the children

You cannot trust me on truth spells, but I swear by the Demons and my magic, it was not us. Othius can lie to truth spells. That is all I shall say on that.

Silvenia placed her hand on the table as the three monarchs chewed on that. Fetoheps golden eyes were blazing.

If he has lied to meI shall hold him accountable for the three children of Khelt who shall never know it as home. If this is true, and I trust even you, Flos Reimarch, know better than to trust a Demons word unguarded.

He glanced at Flos, and the King of Destruction drummed his fingers on the table.

This alone is valuable. But why did you say you were here to gossip?

Silvenia smacked her arms on the table, and Flos nearly drew a sword on her. But she just stared down at the wood.

Because I dont care. I dont care about politics or making allies for the Demons, even if I could. Lets talk Earth. All three of you have Earthers. I saw that [Innkeeper]s spell, and I replayed my memories, and you were all there.

That thoughtless, would-be wretch of a queen.

Fetohep cursed Erin, unexpectedly vehement. But being held semi-hostage by the Death of Magic explained his agitation. The Quarass just sighed.

And you wish for an alliance regarding Earth?

Given what he knew about EarthFlos brows drew together, and he thought even Fetohep might listen. In the unlikely event the two worlds met, the Demons might be a necessary ally to counter Earths pure destructive might.

Silvenia waggled a finger.

I said, no politics, Quarass. How can you not understand me? Youve been a Demon.

I have not. And even if I had, it would have been for perspective. Nothing more.

The Quarass avoided Fetoheps and Flos suddenly intent gazes. Silvenia nodded, checking a magical hourglass ticking down time.

No alliances. No promises. Justlets say we and Earth meet. Two worlds. Gateway, or our continents physically mix, or the worlds join across the horizon.

Isthat likely?

Silvenia nodded.

Magically, if the two worlds meetthats what happens when dimensions intertangle. Big door, lots of tiny doors. Or the two mesh together, in which case you will be lucky if you dont fuse with the earth. Very messy.

She meshed her fingers together, and Flos added that to a list of nightmares to have, including falling to his death. Even Fetohep looked queasy at the idea.

Assuming it is not that calamitous?

Earth. Nations upon nations. Eight billion people, or seven, or nine, I dont particularly care when its that high. Guns. Have you seen guns?

I havebeen apprised of their effects, yes.

Fetohep murmured. Silvenia looked around, eyes shining.

Fighter jets. Nuclear weapons. No magic, and lots of disparate nations. But theyre all Earth, were all of this world. The instant the door opens. How do we kill them all?

The Quarass had been frowning at the Death of Magic, clearly wondering where this was going. Flos had been wondering if she knew what a gun looked like in reality. Then the three rulersblinked.

Kill them

Yes, hurry up! I was thinkingmagical plague. Fire one through at each airport and then take cover and seal the exits. I was told that would probably work. They cant cure magic. Now, they could destroy a city with their bombs, but Ill probably dimensionally shift out, and theyll have to work out how to follow. Whats your first move?

She justwanted to talk about fighting Earth. That was it. No deceit, no trickery. Just a level of battle-craze that would have had Adetr Silverfang checking in for rehabilitation.

Indeed, even Flos stared at her, and the Quarass put her face in her hands.

All the power in the world in the mind of a female Flos Reimarch.

Come on. Please. Please. No one will engage with me, and no ones smart enough! I have this cute little cat who tries, but I need you to make me smile.

Silvenia was almost in tears. Flos looked at Fetohep, who was actually pinching himself. Apparently on the basis that if he felt something, he was dreaming. Fetohep glanced at the Quarass, and then all three reached for the bowl of nuts. Fetohep plucked a ghostly pecan and stared at it.

Is this edible?

Please. Ive talked to ghosts.

He didnt eat it, but it seemed to be sucked into his mouth, and Fetoheps eyes gleamed as Silvenia watched. Flos saw Fetohep jerk.

The taste of! I had forgotten how food tasted. Repugnant. I hated cashews.

He began to eat them as fast as he could. Meanwhile, the Quarass lifted a stern hand.

Silvenia, you are approaching this under the assumption that if our two worlds met, we would not simply join hands and talk as reasonable peoples. Surely our nations would talk before making all-out war.

Silvenia turned to the Quarass as Fetohep stopped eating and Flos looked at her. Theneveryone in the room began laughing.

Even the Quarass had to hold herself on the table before she literally laughed herself off her seat. Flos pounded the table and coughed out a pecan.

Oh, Quarassthat was excellent. Alright.

They grew serious. Silvenia rubbed her hands as Flos murmured.

I have thought about the issue of guns before. You can make armor that is impregnable to mundane weapons, but Im told that the force of a bullet or missile will turn whats inside to paste. Or bake the occupants alive. Or irradiate them. Which is this

Yes, yes. We have that all over Rhir. Thats just a matter of making armor that can resist all kinds of things, including force. Its not impossiblebut youd have one warrior. Unfeasible at scale. Djinni will probably tear their armies a new one, at least, the strongest of them.

Until they learn magic. Which they will. I consider their world magically-null, but if our worlds meet, theyll acquire the power. And levels. So any advantage is lost after the first week. Potentially the first day.

The Quarass had clearly been thinking of what a battle would look like. Flos rubbed at his chin.

True, but we have the advantage in intelligence. Assumingand I cannot prove thisthat our young are not switching into Earth.

Silvenias eyes gleamed as Fetohep raised a finger.

To my understanding, they have not. Their world shares information, and if a similar amount of Earthers were switching places with our peopleit would have been known.

So we have an advantagebut even if I planned out an attack, I could not fly a carpet into Earth and reach any targets fast enough. Relic-grade magic is rare, and if we compare mundane against mundanetheir weapons will tear our steel armor apart.

The Quarass was sour about the limits of their capabilities. Flos interjected.

Kevlar Stitch-folk.

I love you.

Silvenia burst out, then waved Flos to explain. Flos turned to Fetohep and the Quarass.

Kevlar is this bulletproof fabric. If you made Stitch-folk out of it

Theyd simply burn or explode them. You are thinking too small-scale, Flos. As ever.

Flos glared back at Fetohep.

So says the king who could only take a beachhead on Izril by sacrificing ten thousand undead troops.

Fetohep folded his arms.

So says the ruler of Khelt who bested the Walled Cities armies in the field. As I recall, you never made it past Zeres. I didnt even need to engage it. And I have a simpler answer to Earths conundrums, which is why I have not wasted my concerns on it. Ere we ever come to blowit will be destroyed.

Huh? Even the Quarass looked astonished, and Silvenia turned to Fetohep. He chuckled as they focused on him.

Consider an undeads perspective. Magic shall indeed leak between worlds if ours meet. Earth shall gain the powerand all the consequence, to quote a simple aphorism. What could you imagine might happen?

It took Flos a second, but the Quarass just exhaled and slapped her forehead.

Undead.

Silvenia gasped in delight.

Dead gods! Its beautiful. Every single corpse in their world?

Sadly, they do not practice mass cremation, and few caskets are lined with silver, let alone other means. I do not relish the thought; if anything, I am prepared to send immediate aidonce their nations begin to overrun. We may, in fact, wish to prepare not for armies of steel and thunder, but the greatest of undead feasting on the death magic of billions.

Fetoheps eyes flashed with his dark concerns of the future, and Flos sat there. He had never thought of that! Suddenly, the might of Earth became different in his mind. Even assuming that wasnt true, Silvenia waved an urgent hand.

Plagues, too. Magical plagues without even [Healers]? That couldtransform the people of Earth. They apparently dont do well with plagues. Imagine fighting horrific plague-monsters or super-undead.

She sat back in her chair, closing her eyes in bliss.

Thank you. This is what I came for.

Then she cracked an eye open.

We have nineteen minutes. Please, go on. The first thing Id do, incidentally? If none of that happens, Id just open a permanent gateway at the bottom of a sea floor somewhere in each nation I hated. They might dispel itonce they learn how to breathe underwater.

Youd drain our oceans?

The Quarass looked horrified at the idea. Silvenia smiled.

Sure. This world can be all land. Theirs can be all water. I also hear they have sensitive electronics. Even the Archmage of Lightning back there could probably turn off a nation if she could fly high enough.

Flos Reimarch coughed.

Is there a quill or anything here? I could use a sheet of paper. But what about bullets? I still havent found a perfect way to beat them with my [Soldiers]. My current model for immediate defense is [Darkness] spells and commanding the Loquea Dree to attack, or using [Ricochet Arrows] until I get some. Or a full-scale [Anti-Flame] ward that stops the combustion-thing from occurring.

Silvenia had been producing a quill and ink before her mouth opened.

Anti-combustion?

She began to write furiously and excitedly.

I have to try this at home.

All three monarchs looked at her, and Silvenia glanced up.

What? You dont have guns?

She looked at their faces, and then a huge, happy grin spread over her face. She was very bad at keeping secrets, and the Deaths would kill her.

You dont have guns? Heh. Hahahaha. Ahahahaha

When Flos Reimarch returned, he had seconds to get into place and think of a way to refuse Silvenia. Amerys punch hadnt been entirely fake, either.

She had parted happily, and he had a lot to think ofbut he was not blind. Fetohep and the Quarass had looked at him the more they discussed Earth and agreed that, Silvenia aside

They should meet once more.

The Death of Magic was not as simple as she pretended. Nor did she leave simply with a smile and thanks. She handed him something, and Flos Reimarch stared at it.

What is this?

A tremendously long weapon, heavier and wider than any longsword, but not yet a full greatsword, was wrapped in cloth. When he removed the wrapping, he stared at the wretchedly sharp blade and distinctive rust-red color.

This? Just a little thank-you gift. I heard you lacked for a great sword, so I made this myself. Not the sword itself; I cant smith. But I upgraded the magic. You had one forged of Naq-Alrama steel, but it was bad?

Silvenia gave him an innocent look. Flos almost tried to return it, but the Adamantium blade was enchanted, and if she had enchanted itthe [King] of Reim knew it was potential trouble. The [Warrior] in him refused to throw it away.

Flos imagined he could claim hed found it in an armoryif he used it. He wondered what it did. Teres and Mars would probably mug him for it if he didnt use it. To answer Silvenia, he exhaled with disappointment as he shook his head.

It never came to be. I gave my old one away. Death of MagicI cannot be friends with Demons. Did you truly come to aid me?

She winked at him.

You are a great concern to the established nations. And if you should be my allyI think you may be, in time, if you trust and listen to your Earthers. But regardless, just listen to me: the Demons have a story to tell. You have heard only the Blighted Kingdoms. I could have killed you.

He came to a decision as he hefted the sword with a nod and hid it in a bag of holding.

This is a beautiful blade. Who am I to turn away the greatest weapon I could lay my hands on? Assuming it isnt cursed, I accept your gift.

Silvenia smiled widely, but for once, her amusement faded and she gave Flos an almost maudlin look.

I cannot smith, King of Destruction. Its one of my great regrets, that I cannot create as well as destroy. I would be a better protector of Demons if I could. A worse Death. Take care of that weapon, but cast it aside when you find a true masterwork. That is just an Adamantium blade enchanted by me.

Name a better blade. Even Orthenons relic from KheltMars goes through swords like I do spoons.

Flos gestured at his frozen followers, and Silvenia just pointed.

Her armor may be cracked, but look. No magic and it lasted her decades of war. Respect her blade, King of Destruction. And armor. For it was made by Dwarves.

Flos turned, and Gazi, frozen in time, stared ahead as she put one hand on the claymores hilt. Her armor showed that telltale fracture, and he wondered if it would break. But come to ithe turned to Silvenia.

I know it was made by Dwarves.

No.

She swooped closer one second, and her eyes were suddenly focused. She leaned down and whispered in his ear.

It was made by Dwarves.

Flos stared at her for a moment in frank incomprehension, then his eyes flickered and opened wide.

But before he could ask, Silvenia stepped back, ended the spell, and Flos stared at her as the drama played out.

When she offered him a toasthe looked her in the eyes. And he thought long and hard and wondered if he was being tricked. But then she was gone.

Silvenia was dodging hellfire on her way to the meeting place. She had to lose her trackers, travel under the ocean, but she still made it more or less on time.

Serinpotva had to preen her wings. She wanted to eat the shark like a civilized person and made Czautha gather local ingredients. Then, when the Djinni nagged her, she insisted they at least tour First Landing from afar so she could talk about when the Humans had come onto her continent.

She wasan [Empress]. And a history nerd. And sometimes, Czautha, who hated lingering around seats of power, had tiffs with her about timing.

But Serinpotva did have her ways. Once they flew to First Landing, they could either have gone through the sea around the entire damn continent to their destination or through the air.

Both ways would have gotten them detected; the Blighted Kingdom was narrowing its search for the duo, and Czautha could not keep them safe near a coast, even with her tricks.

The Walled Cities, the north, all had means of detecting foes, and even for the Deaths, it was a dangerous trek. Czautha would have gone all the way around to Izrils south if it were her alone, via deep sea, but the sea was churned up, and a Kraken was dangerous to her.

Serinpotva had a unique solution that the Blighted Kingdom hadnt dreamt of. It was arrogant, amazingand no one noticed until they ran into someone just south of the High Passes.

It had been a three-hour flight with absolutely no danger. Indeed, the one person who spotted Serinpotva and Czautha might have been a threatbut really, the Deaths just sort of felt bad for her.

She made the mistake of inhaling and then began to choke to death. She leapt awayand Czautha, providing a bubble of air for Serinpotva, shook her head.

Uh oh. Do you think shell tell someone?

I doubt shell ally with Rhir, but well listen. I feel bad for her. Should I wave?

The Harpy Empress fanned a gracious wing as she kept flying, and her shadow passed over Mihaela Godfrey as the woman reappearedand flinched. She backed away, holding a wand, but Czautha just nodded. She tried to shoutand realized there was no air. So the Djinni just flashed her a peace-sign she had picked up from the Earthers, then a salute.

[The Couriers Last Road] had no air. But the Djinni could produce some with her body, and Serinpotva flew down Mihaela Godfreys Skill. Normally, they kept away from the north, but since Mihaelad been moving, theyd hoped she wasnt using it.

Ah, well. The Courier stared up at the Deaths, completely dumbstruck. Let her tell the Blighted Kingdom that Serinpotva had her Skill. That wasnt how the [Empress] was doing this.

Thiswas a Skill for the last Harpy Queen, the heiress of Izril.

[Shadows of Empire: Every Door and Land Opens to Me].

Including Skills. The Empress of Wings realized that Mihaela was following them after a bit. She turned her head as they neared their meeting place. The Courier was slower, having to pause to breathe, but she had kept up. SoSerinpotva paused as a door opened for her, and she called back as air rushed into this place.

Nevermore. Never again, but one last time. Remember who flew these skies.

She dipped her head, once, and fixed Mihaela with a golden stare. Then she was gone. The only thing Serinpotva had ever wondered was if

If her mothers door would not open for her. She wished she could go to the garden, but it was too dangerous. Named-ranks and Walled Cities.

Someday. But not yet. They were bound for somewhere even more special, at least right now.

There was a lot of nonsense between the moment when the Deaths separated and reunited. When Czautha saw Silvenias injuries, she pulled on the half-Elfs ear.

Aah, ah, gentle, Czautha! Its going to come off!

You cant take such risks! Tell me it was worth it.

Silvenia gave her two comrades a huge smile.

It was. I gained a lot of valuable information, and I didnt make people hate us more than before.

Amazing.

Serinpotvas remark was dry as she held Czauthas hand. She stared at her hand, then felt at her toes, which she stared at as they wiggled in two colorful sandals.

This is disgusting.

I know. But its so fascinating. So this is how it feels. My kin would love this place.

The Djinni paused in scowling at Silvenia, who looked much like herself. Actuallyshe had bandages all over her face, and passersby, who were not shrieking about Deaths and Demons, were giving her concerned looks.

Possibly because Silvenia had on one of those green uniforms, and she had broken out of a hospital. But Czautha treasured this because, looks or not, she was a person amidst people.

A Djinnis twisted wish. Serinpotva wasnt over the toes. She pointed at them.

Theyre so fragile. And they make me hungry, like worms. Also, why do I have ten? Theyre not useful. I know toes. They break.

Dear

Okay, maybe they werent blending in. For one thing, Czauthas physical size had apparently meant that, as a Human, she was six foot six, and Serinpotva was actually shorter. Both liked that.

So apparently, I wasnt the largest of Harpy Queens. I told you I wasnt overweight.

She was very smug, and Czautha turned to Silvenia.

Its random, isnt it?

The half-Elf sighed.

Am I just your walking encyclopedia for magic and Skills?

Yes.

The half-Elf gave her a snide look as she sipped from her drink.

Why am I covered in bandages? I am sure this Skill takes from reality. It doubtless has some random components, but logic supports Serinpotvas assertion.

Aha.

If it was not clear alreadyall three were Humans in the great Skill, [The World of You and Me], in the Meeting of Tribes. Czautha shook her head, amazed.

The power of Gnolls. Even if this was made of Earthers, I could not imagine this happening in Wistram, even.

Thats shamanic magic for you. They dont worry about having to justify all of this. Mages would have to build some kind of memory-based transference to logical data andeugh. [Shamans] are simpler. Mind you, they cant do spell circuits for shit.

Silvenia was delighted by this place. She beamed around, and a woman hurried up to her.

Are youexcuse me, are you alright?

What, this? Dont mind the bandages. Im fine, see?

Silvenia removed her eyepatch and her gaping eyesocket, bloodied, stared the woman in the face. She screamed, then fainted.

Weak. I changed my mind, well conquer this place easily. Want to try?

Serinpotva and Czautha immediately scolded Silvenia and hurried her off. But Serinpotva ran back to add a huge tip to their table.

Serinpotva, theyre fake. This is pointless.

Silvenia complained, but Serinpotva turned.

I will not be a thief, even in a dream. Besides. Courtesy matters. Now, stop causing trouble. Didnt you say you could break this Skill if you did too much? I would not trouble the Gnolls. Hopefully, they did not notice our entry.

Theyre smart. They wont bother us. Hopefully.

Czautha was optimistic. Silvenia? She just beamed as she looked around. She smiled, and the years melted off her.

Another world. This is worth staying alive another thousand years for, even if I have to build a proper bridge myself.

She smiled and lookedyoung. A half-Elf who had figured out how not to age. Czautha envied her that, and even Serinpotva stopped to look around.

Earth.

They stood in a common destination for travellers, Los Angeles, a place that Rose, one of the creators of the Skill, knew well. There was a lot for the Deaths to do.

Including, but not limited to, scaring the piss out of everyone else that was here. Serinpotva was scolding Silvenia by pecking her with her face, which looked stupid.

We are here to confirm things, Silvenia.

And have fun. This is alreadymagnificent. Look at all these cars. Although, theyre not that efficient. Lets find that metroline thing.

Czautha shook her head.

I hear its dangerous and filled with urine.

Flora said that, but she admitted shes never been to California and hates it on principle. Come now, Czautha, I can still cast magic. You could probably push over that skyscraper, there. But shall we save that for later? I need to find the internals of everything so I can copy the designs. Oh! And shall we see how many people in chains there really are?

Silvenias eyes glittered, and Czautha, a huge woman with dark skin, drew herself up as she looked around. Serinpotva, who had long, braided hair and looked like she hailed from Inkars home or close by, interestingly, raised her brows.

This land shines so vibrantly. But every happy land has a dark underbelly. We neednt start there, though. We havetwo hours?

Dont worry about that. Ill extend our stay. You can bully Skills.

Silvenia said it like it was easy. They were sonormal. Normal and terrifying. Againsomeone emerged from the restroom of a local pub.

I need to go to the bathroom again. Dead gods, were dead. We. Are. Dead.

Pisces jumped as Ceria whispered in his ear. He turned and nearly screamed at herand then saw Ksmvr, Yvlon, and five Gnolls half-crouched and staring at the Deaths through the pub window. They were getting odd looks, but the terrified people in the Earth Skill were more terrified of the real

Pisces, what are you doing?

Even Ceria was scared. Pisces was petrified so bad that he had leaked a bit into his pants, and he was shaking uncontrollably every time he stared at Silvenias raw mana leaking from her.

So he was about one fourth as terrified as his friends and the other Gnolls. He was less scared because Czautha

He wanted to go over and thank her. But Yvlon would probably murder him first. He whispered back.

What am I doing? Im acting normal. If they see you squatting down, theyll know youre not from here.

Hes right! Everyone, act normal!

Instantly, Yvlon threw herself into a seat and dragged Ksmvr into the seat. They pretended to be reading from a menu, and one of the Gnolls whimpered.

Go to Earth, they said. Nothing can hurt you. If we die here, do we die in real life?

I bet you Silvenia could kill you in a dream and make it stick. I need to go to the bathroom again!

Ceria fled into one. Pisces turned back. What were they say

Aha. Look what I found? A little [Necromancer] and a [Cryomancer]. Yum, yum. And some Gnolls.

Silvenia appeared at the window of the pub. Shed turned herself invisible! Now, the bandaged half-Elf appeared as a Human with silver hair and bandages.

Aaah!

Pisces screamed. Ksmvr screamed. The Gnolls ran, shrieking, as Ceria leapt out of the bathroom, wand raised, jeans down around her ankles.

[Ice Spike]!

No, d

Yvlon threw a wild punch, and her arms elongated and broke straight through the glass. The fake Humans screamed in confusionand Czautha caught the fist.

Silvenia. Stop scaring them. I apologize. We arent hurting anyone.

The Djinni flicked the fist back, and Silvenia caught the trio of [Ice Spikes] in midair. She snapped off the tips and inserted them into her drink.

Not bad ice. Hey, this ones poisoned. Hello, sister. Hello, Antinium-thing. Mirrex will be happy I met one of you. And a metalflesh woman. Theyre so interesting

Do you want to have the Blighted Kingdom torture them?

The Gnolls had run off screaming, and Silvenia pouted as she stared at the Horns. Czautha pretended not to know Pisces as he sat there, staring at her. Silvenia sighed.

Oh, very well. I was going to invite them to

No. Interrogation squads. Torture.

Right. Well, farewell. Oh, and here. This is a proper [Ice Spike], sister.

Silvenia pointed at Ceria, and the half-Elf threw herself down. Pisces felt a faint breeze and thensilence. He stared ahead as Ksmvr and Yvlon took cover and saw Czautha yank Silvenia away with a sigh. Then Czauthas head turned

And she winked at him. Pisces whispered.

Thank you

They left, and only then did he turn and see Ceria lying flat on the ground, staring at the hole just where her head had been. That hole had punched itself through the next fifteen buildings, and she lay there, staring at a perfect hole in the world before things began crumbling.

II need new pants. Also, I have to see what that ice spike looked like. Were alive, right? Horns, run like cowards! Tactical retreat!

In the end, Serinpotva made them all fly to another city to get away from the commotion theyd caused. Even then, Silvenia ended up having to disguise them with magic. Czautha was staring at a phone, sighing as she spoke to Silvenia.

They really are good at sharing information. Your face is on the news.

Silvenia was in tears. When Czautha demanded to know why, she almost burst into sobs.

I want to come back here every day. Imagine it, I could cause so much trouble

Serinpotva sighed, but Czautha was wondering how long they could stay. A little date with Serinpotva would be nice.

Actually, the two holding hands were fairly conspicuous given Czauthas size, and she had bought a bunch of clothing for a new look. What she liked wasnt just that they were Humansshe liked the fact that, even here, there was a war to be fought.

She felt it in her bones. At least one older woman had not approved of her and Serinpotva holding hands and said something in whichever city this wasbut before Czautha could say anything, another Human had come to their defense.

The entire fight was reassuring because it felt like a real world. Rather than focus on the negatives, Czautha looked at it as a place she could understand. Amidst even the world of chainsthere was always something beautiful.

Like this bar, which was having an open-mic night and was, apparently, a shelter for her kind. She did not know the steps, but she knew the dance, and Serinpotva was questioning another person in here for all the cultural details.

She wants to go to a museum. Good luck.

Silvenia smiled evilly as Czautha groaned. They were going to split up after this, but as Rinu had asked

What did the Deaths do together? This. They did this.

It didnt matter where, or how short, or how long. Silvenia climbed up onto stage, microphone in hand, and got a round of applause.

So we sing? My name is Silvenia, and Im here with my two friends, Serinpotva and Czautha. And I dont have practice with this style of song, but I

Get on with it! No one wants to hear your lifes story.

Someone else impatient for their turn shouted. Silvenia aimed a finger at them, then thought about it and merely smiled.

Czautha didnt miss the magic that sent the person into the bathroom with [Crippling Indigestion], but that was restrained for Silvenia. The Death of Magic took a breaththen began.

Your world hasnt heard of me, but a terror Ill be. Im Silvenia, the Archmage of Demons. The person whois the terror of legions! When my foes see me, they turn orange. A monster I can kill is called a Morang! Great Elves. This is so annoying.

She made it about three verses, and then Czautha was reminded of Silvenias great weakness: she couldnt rhyme. The audience laughed at her lyrics and Silvenias flush and Serinpotva gave Silvenia pity-applause, standing up, which only made the half-Elf grow more embarrassed. The Harpy muttered to Czautha.

How can an [Archmage] capable of dual-chanting two Tier 7 spells into existence not rhyme?

Silvenia came back to her seat and got a free drink from the bar for humiliating herself. She took a long drink, then responded, flushed.

I always think of orange. If youre so smart, you do better.

I wish Czautha to do it. Youve been listening to them all night, and you have a look in your eye. Go on.

Serinpotva prodded Czautha, but the Djinni waited shyly until there was a lull. When she got up, people stared at the giant among their kind, but Czautha just took the microphone and, unlike Silvenia, stood there in silence.

But it was an expectant silence, for her, and when she did speak, it was in a different style than Silvenia, a rush of words and emotions. And Czautha

Chain-born I broke them again and again until I learned also to mend. I wanted to see a Jinns face, but it was everywhere I looked only half of mine was fading away immortal flesh before mortal dreams love dangling on hooks.

The longer I look the less villains I see only complacencyminds my flesh cannot change a thousand burning cities for each a brick Ive laid. Someday I must be stopped but until I dropmy folk must be free first of all.

We were gone already like Dragon and Halfling and Giant and more do you even remember them and their stories or wars? For all I fight and even if I win its done and lost but I stand here so it matters because they stood there and I watched them and here we are today.

Endless hope no matter how deep it lies we rise.

She didnt know how well she did; the thunder in her heart and her closed eyes made it so that she felt alone. But when she cracked an eye open in the resulting silenceshe saw staring faces. Then a whoop from Silvenia and applause. The Djinni raised the microphone and burst into a relieved smile.

Serinpotva smiled as she patted Silvenia on the arm.

You were right. This was a good idea. Were bound for another city, soon, if this simulation allows it.

Oh, where? Im going to raid their military base and see whats in it. Hopefully the Skill copiedreality.

Castroin a city close to where we first appeared. Its apparently a place for us, and there will be a street fair and dancing. You should come.

Once I visit my spot. Ill try not to cause a national incident.

In truth, Silvenia left them alone because when she found them the next dayshe peeked at their smiles, and they had no end at what they had found, a happy place in this reflection of Earth.

And thatthat was worth it.

That was just a fraction of it. It always was. To describe a day would take a day of writing, and it was enough to say that the Deaths took their time there. Silvenia had to be caught by Serinpotva and stopped from harassing the half-Elf she had taken a liking to. Czautha looked for misery and found it.

The [Necromancer] watched her, and Serinpotva took the Antinium aside for a quick chat to see what was up, although she had to throw his fierce half-metal guardian into the sea to get a word in.

Then they left, leaving the Gnolls alone, because their presence brought trouble. It was hard to be their friends or allies. Even if you wanted to be.

Serinpotva and Czautha took their secret route back, and this time with Silvenia. Then they broke for home, and the Blighted Kingdom was waiting once more.

They winged Silvenia, and it seemed like multiple nations had sent firepower down. But they hesitated, as they had this entire trip. From Nerrhavias Fallen to Zeresthey hesitated.

Wait, is this really Silvenia? Should we unleash our magic on?

It was that hesitation that gave her the moment to dodge or live, but even then

She was smoking when she landed in her tower, and her flesh was scarred further. The Demons were in uproar, triggering a return volley of fire to make the Blighted Kingdom relent their assault.

Silvenia!

Bazeth and [Healers] charged at her, and a terrified cat was almost trampled by Flora as Silvenia collapsed onto the ground.

She lay there, but then shooed them and the healing potions and scrolls of magic away. She was just hurt. She wasnt dead.

The half-Elf dragged herself into her rooms. Bazeth was furious, and so was the Minister of Defense.

Death of Magic, youre hurt. Youve burnt out your manaand all for what? Intelligence? This is

Silvenia tossed a cat at the Demon, and the Minister fled. But Bazeth stayed, looking disapproving, with Flora worriedly staring at Silvenia. Yet the Death of Magic, Islandbreaker, the Curse of Elves just lay there, looking wan, exhausted, and panting.

Her eyes were still alive. She spoke to Bazeth before he could muster a complaint.

Thirty-seven. I wasted thirty-seven failsafes in two days. Killing spells in vaults, held in reserve by nations like Nerrhavias Fallen. The like of which they used to burn that Gathering Citadel down to ash.

His eyes widened. Silvenia smiled tiredly.

Other nations panic when they see me. Thirty-seven, and I saw Earth. I had a beer, and I have all the designs I could plunder. What did you do today?

Then she put a cat over her eyes and fell asleep on the spot.

Authors Note: I will be accepting no questions. This time I went ham. Yes, I wrote this in one day. And yesI am taking care of myself.

So. Saturday and Sunday are now break-days. I am thinking, as I said, of not writing on Sundays at all, which means each chapter that comes out on Tuesday may be far shorter than usual. This is for my health.

Ill be back on Monday and see if I want to write a short chapter or not. If I do, youll find out onTuesdaysince I take a day to edit and revise anything.

You know what? Lets just let me worry about it. This chapter may be crazy. I referred to it in my notes as a crack-chapter despite having never tried said drug. But sometimes we have to do these things.

Thanks for reading and let me know how it was. Happy birthday to a certain reader, and congrats to the graduating students all over. pirateaba /boboplushie

Bears of Izril by Enuryn the [Naturalist]! Which one do you like best?

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The Knights of Solstice by Mg!

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Pirate Casear by LeChatDemon? This ones a complex reference 90%+ of readers are not going to get. But I laughed.

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