Read The Wandering Inn Book 6: Chapter 6: D

Book 6: Chapter 6: D

They called her the Last Light. The Last Light of Baleros. To most, she was a [Soldier]s story. And not even a grand one at that. Her legend was small. But somehow, it spread.

She was no warrior. She hadnt built up decades of triumphs like the larger-than-life figures who dominated Baleros. The Titan. The Seer of Steel. Or even the younger heroes, like Aria Fellstrider, Battle Hymnist of Maelstroms Howling.

And yet, the Last Lights tale lived on. It spread from word of mouth, from soldier to soldier, until you could hear a story about her a hundred miles from where she had ever walked. And that was because there was something in the Last Light that called to the [Mercenaries], to [Soldiers].

To anyone who fought on the battlefield, really. The Last Light was someone who would mend you. Save you when no potion could. Her true name, her identity was actually unimportant. She just symbolized a dying soldiers hope. So they knew her. The Last Light. The [Doctor] of Baleros. And when they lay dying in the mud and gore, impaled by spears, bleeding, mage-burnt or torn from a monsters claws, they called for her. The wounded, the despairing. Reaching out for a glimmer of hope.

But she was not there. And they died or lived by miracles she had nothing to do with. The Last Light was a legend. The real thing was only Human. And so powerless.

So frail.

And she was coming home.

Geneva Scala rode down a trade road of Baleros. The pony she rode wasnt too happy about carrying her. And she wasnt too happy with it, really. But since both were well-disciplined, they plodded down the stone road in disagreeable silence. Geneva occasionally swatted at a fly that landed on her. Her right hand gripped the reins while her left flicked the flies off before they could bite and lay eggs. It was spring, and the air was humid. The pony flicked its tail constantly as its shod hoofs gently struck the stone.

A trade road. Unlike the muddy, sometimes flooded or overrun dirt trails, the trade roads were almost always clear. They connected the major cities of Baleros. They had been painstakingly laid over hundreds of years and were maintainedfor it was from them that the lifeblood of Baleros, trade and war, flowed.

The pony Geneva was riding decided to relieve itself as it walked. She felt the gurgling and smelled and heard the distinct plops on the road behind her. She half-twisted, wrinkled her nose, but didnt bother chastising the pony. There was really no point. Besides, the trade road had all kinds of detritus left on it. It would be clean once one of Baleros many storms or showers passed by.

The person riding behind Geneva minded a bit, though. She heard an exclamation, a female voice.

Oh! ! Dont walk inew, ew!

Geneva sighed. The voice belonged to a Japanese girl, who was horrified as her pony trod right through the smelly leavings. She heard Aiko crying out in disgust in English and Japanese, and then laughter. It came from ahead of Geneva and behind. After all, she wasnt alone.

The trade road had tons of travellers on it. Caravans bearing goods to and from the ports, adventurers, and of course, companies marching to battle. The party that followed the traffic on the right side of the road was small. Six people, all riding ponies.

Ken! Miss Essil! My pony

Aiko, its fine. Ponies walk through all kinds of bad things. Dont worry. .

But Ken

Geneva heard Aiko break off and speak rapidly in Japanese. She heard another voice reply. She looked to her side. Ken was arguing with Aiko, probably about the hygiene of pony hooves. Like Aiko, he was Japanese. A young man with a wide-brimmed farmers hat, to protect him from the sun. He was dressed in light Balerosian clothing. Aiko, who had elected to wear one of her hats from Earth, had on a bright travel dress. Both wore longer clothing, to protect their fairer skin from the sun.

However, the extremely pale-skinned duo of riders riding behind them wore no protection from the sun at all. The two Selphid [Guards] riding behind their group laughed.

Ponies dont mind what they step on, Miss Aiko. Its snakes that bother them. Snakes, fliesif you want to help, keep waving the pests away and your pony will thank you.

Aiko did. She had a long fly whisk in her hand and was diligently keeping the stinging flies from her pony, whom shed even named. Geneva stared down at her pony. It rolled its eye back as if to dare her to try and play nice. She kept riding, her body automatically balancing to prevent her from being jolted. Well, not exactly automatically.

Geneva was a poor rider. She didnt do horses. Or other four-legged animals bigger than she was, really. She liked dogs. Cats. Fish. Horses were a bit tooCentaurs were fine. But she didnt feel that riding animals was for her or them. And they agreed.

Normally shed be saddle-sore from poor posture, but as luck would have it, she was riding like a professional. And it wasnt really something she was doing. Or rather, she was doing it, but

Miss Essil! Miss Essil, my pony doesnt want an apple! Is that bad?

The sixth member of their group looked over her shoulder somewhat reluctantly at Aiko. Essil, a Lizardwoman who was more at home in the saddle than on the ground, was a rare breed of her species. In that she didnt actually enjoy talking all the time. Aiko, by comparison, would have fit in well with the Lizardfolk. The Japanese girl smiled as the two Selphid [Guards] hired to protect Aiko, Geneva, Ken, and to some extent, Essil herself, laughed again. Essil eyed Aikos pony and shook her head curtly.

Its not hungry because you fed it two apples already. Youre spoiling it. Dont give it any more or itll overeat when feeding. Ill have to lower how much I give that one

She grumbled and turned forwards. Essil scowled at the road ahead, her tail waving in time with her pony, who was calmly plodding ahead of the small group.

Juststop fussing over it! Were nearly at Talenqualonce were there Ill take my ponies and you lot can leave me alone.

We love you too, Essie.

A Selphid wearing a Dullahans body called out cheerfully. His name was Maquit, at least when he wore a male body. When she was in a female body, she preferred to be called Maqua. Geneva turned sideways to eye the Selphid as Essie glared back at him.

Selphids. The body snatchers of Baleros. A pejorative nickname, really, since Selphids neither stole the bodies of the living and only rarely stole dead bodies outright. They paid to use the bodies of the deceased, hopping from body to body as they eventually decayed, much like hermit crabs and shells. Not that Okasha had liked the comparison when Geneva had made it.

Nevertheless, Selphids were fascinating. To Geneva, they reminded her of a fictional book shed read when she was a kid. Animorphs. To her, Selphids were a bit like Yeerks, only they infested an entire body via the nervous system, rather than through the brain.

Strange. Yeerks had terrified Geneva as a child. The thought of aliens living among normal people, of being able to control someone against their will, leaving them helpless in their own body had been horrifying. But Selphids didnt bother Geneva at all.

They werepeople. They had unique personalities, morality, and like people, few were disposed towards mindless cruelty. Selphids were in fact very careful about the rules that defined their culturethey never inhabited living creatures. Doing so was punishable by death by every species in the worldespecially their own. And they were also courteous of the dead. They paid the families of the deceased for the bodies they inhabited, and were in fact more careful of their vessels than the owners had been in life.

Which of course made Genevas own situation that much more ironic. Geneva saw a fly buzz at her faceno, a mosquito. A big one, with a proboscis that would hurt if it stuck it in her. Mosquitos had evolved to take on the bigger monsters of Baleros, and some had decided that being unobtrusive wasnt as important as being tough. This one had a much, much bigger body, covered in a thicker carapace.

And it wanted Geneva. It landed on her cheek. She jerkedbut her left hand had already snatched the mosquito before her right hand could. It quickly and ruthlessly smashed the bug between its fingers. Geneva felt the horribly unpleasant crunching and squish between her fingers before her left hand tossed the mosquito away. It rubbed its fingers on the ponys sidethe animal snorted unhappily.

The death of the mosquito didnt bother Geneva. She was a pacifist. She had sworn an oath not to harm. But that didnt apply to animalsshe could eat meatand it certainly didnt apply to Baleros stinging insects. Nevertheless, she shuddered a bit at the sensation. She heard a whisper.

Sorry. Ill deaden the nerves next time.

The voice hadnt come from anyone around Geneva. Rather, it was a silent whisper in her eardrums. In her eardrums. Only the [Doctor] had heard it. She whispered back, her lips barely moving. She knew she didnt have to be loud, only make the barest vocalizations.

Dont. Its fine. Thank you.

The conversation went unnoticed by Essil and everyone else on the road. They were in good spirits; after all, their journey was nearly at an end. Geneva wasnt in such a good mood; she felt tired, weary of ponies, and honestly? A bit depressed. A bit useless.

One person did pick up on that. Ken, the young man riding next to Geneva, looked over and his smile grew into a thoughtful look. He stopped teasing Aiko, and nudged his pony a bit closer to Genevas. The mare obeyed happily. She seemed to enjoy carrying Ken, who had given her a treat and kept her free of the biting flies. But that wasnt unusual. People liked Ken. It was his thing.

Ken, the [Negotiator]. Ken, who had managed to get even Essil to guide them at a cheap rate. And book them in good inns. And done most of the talking. And who was a Level 25 [Negotiator]. His latest Skill, [Moodreader], allowed him to see what peoples general states of mind were. Geneva hated that Skill.

She also hated that Ken didnt outright ask what was wrong. True to form, he waited for a second, assessing her, looking around, and then carefully asked a question. It was how he did so well with the touchy Dullahans and Centaurshe was polite, deferentialhed taken the etiquette of his culture and applied to Baleros with splendid results.

Geneva, are you excited to be back in Talenqual? I think we have achieved some good results that the others will be very happy with, dont you?

Geneva scowled, and then tried to smile. Her lips twitchedthen turned into a natural smile. Not her own. She turned it back into a scowl. She hated how naturally Okasha could do that.

It will be good to be back. I can work on isolating a proper antibiotic. As for achievementswe havent brought back more money than we left with.

In fact, they had a lot less. Their journey had set them back, and while they still had a surplus of funds, theyd used up far too many gold coins for Geneva to be happy. Ken nodded, looking slightly puzzled.

But weve made good progress. Thats worth the effort, is it not? And we have done quite a lot.

You have.Not me. Bleakly, Geneva thought of all the people Ken had introduced himself to, and the talking hed done while shed stood around awkwardly as people stared at her. She shook her head.

It was a good use of time. But Im just worried about our finances. We didnt get a [Message] from Paige, so alls probably well, but without a proper source of income

She broke off sharply as she saw Kens polite smile grow ever-so-slightly strained. Somewhat guiltily, Geneva realized this was the umpteenth time shed brought up the issue on their journey. Even he had to be tired of hearing it. She cleared her throat.

Ill be glad to be back.

So will I. I want to see Kirana and Paige! They say theyve made new dishes from home. Very tasty ones, I hope!

Aiko rode forwards, smiling brightly. She was a [Nurse], a [Sketcher]she was hoping to become an [Artist] with more practiceand Genevas assistant in most things. She was a breath of sunshine while Genevawas not.

We will discuss it at the headquarters. And maybe talk about renting another space from Miss Hastel. That would be very important. Paige told me the apartments wasexcuse me, werevery full already.

Ken nodded to himself. Geneva nodded, keeping her mouth shut. She glanced behind her. Maquit and Ilmt, the two Selphids, were caught up in a quiet dialogue of their own. They were fairly relaxed, this being a busy trade road, but they wore the shortswords and bucklers on them at all times.

Thanks for escorting us to Talenqual despite the detours, Maquit. We appreciate it.

The Selphid [Guard] glanced up. He grinned, a younger intelligence smiling out past the old Human mans face. He had a bald head with whips of grey hair and his body was portly. But Maquit was barely out of his teens. And he spoke like it, despite the older voice. An odd dissonance, but you grew used to it with Selphids.

Our pleasure, Miss Geneva. And if you want to travel again, remember to ask for us! Well be in Talenqual as long as it takes to find more work, probably a day or so at the latest. But should you need work, just mention Calectus name and youll get one of us. If there are any in the city, that is.

Geneva nodded. Maquit and Ilmt had given her group an excellent deal on their rates and accompanied them wherever they wanted, despite the detours Geneva had asked for. That was because Calectus, the Selphid [Honor Guard] whod protected Geneva throughout the jungle had spread the word. Geneva was a person of interest to Selphids and so they went out of their way to give her aid. Because they thought she could help them.

Oh, how Geneva wished she shared that optimism. She shook her head, feeling herself grow gloomier again. She turned ahead, and then noticed her left hand doing something. She watched as, unbidden by Genevas mind, her left hand uncorked her water flask, raised it to her lips. Her mouth opened and Geneva drank. All of this occurred without Geneva ordering her body to do any of it.

She must have been dehydrated. Geneva hadnt felt it, but the humidity and heat of Baleros was a constant thing and she was mildly sweaty even in the early morning. But her other bodys passenger, her truest protector and one of the reasons why she could command Selphid aid, would have noticed at once. Not that anyone else would know just by looking. Except perhapsanother Selphid.

And perhaps Maquit and Ilmt had noticed, because their gazes fixed on Geneva for a second longer than normal. But they only smiled when she looked back at them and made a joke about Humans being easier to guard than Dullahansat least Humans dont forget their heads! She knew they wanted to talk to her other bodys other occupant, but theyd been very careful and the right moment had never sprung up.

Were nearly there.

Essil interrupted the groups chatter. The Lizardwoman looked back over her shoulder and pointed as, ahead of them, Talenqual appeared out of the jungle. Geneva looked up and sighed.

Home. Or at least, a place where she lived. She rode towards the city, hunched over her pony. It had been two weeks of travelling. And theyd accomplishedsomething. They really had. She just wished she could smile. Because after all this time, she still felt so useless that it hurt.

Theyre back!

Daly was lounging in one of the two sofas the apartment held when Andel burst through the door excitedly. The young Australian man was on his day off from fishing, and hed seen Ken, Geneva, and Aiko coming through the gates. His words provoked an uproar among the Earthworlders.

At last! Lets go meet them!

Excitedly, Mary jumped to her feet. Dawson waved a lazy hand. He was playing on the one gaming smartphone the company shared.

Bah, theyll be here any minute. They know the way.

Aikos back?

Kirana poked her head out of the kitchen, looking excited. Daly nodded and she ran upstairs to find Priya, both of whom were good friends with Aiko. Daly looked around. He saw Blake, who was sitting and talking with a few of the other recent newcomers, look up from his briefing about Baleros and the world. So did Nicola and the Italian kids.

The others?

Nicola looked confused. Daly nodded. He stood up.

Thatll be Ken, Geneva, and Aiko. Ken and Geneva are two of our companys leaders. Along with Luan.

Theyre very good. The highest-level our group has. Youll like Ken. He is a [Negotiator]. And Geneva is famous. The Last Light of Baleros is what people call her.

Nicola frowned, still struggling a tiny bit with Toftes Norwegian accent. She hesitated.

TheLast Light?

Tofte nodded. He tried to explain how Geneva had gotten the namewhich was a trick in itself because the story was complicated. Daly, who had been there, only half-listened. He glanced around and saw Siri coming down the stairs.

I heard Kens coming back? And Aiko and Geneva?

Thats right. Our [Doctor]s returned.

Daly felt a bit of relief in saying it. Ken and Geneva being here would make him relax a lot. He hoped theyd come with good news, or better yet, a lot of money. But them just being here and not necessarily on the road would be good. Siri frowned.

I met Geneva only once, when I first came here. Then she left on her trip.

Oh, right. I forgot you only got here for a bit.

It felt like Siri had been part of the company, and the Bushrangers, for ages. But she was new. Daly saw Siri was frowning slightly.

Whats up?

Hm. Whats she like in person? Geneva? She was very

Siri broke off. Out of politeness, perhaps. Daly wondered what her experience had been. He hesitated, and then shrugged nonchalantly.

Youll see her in a few seconds.

The Swedish girl eyed him, but didnt push it. And indeed, she settled back down in the chair shed been using. Meanwhile, more of the company not working flooded back into the apartments. They wanted to greet Ken and Aiko and Geneva.

Many of the most eager ones were the newest members, the ones who had barely had a chance to get to know Ken and the others before theyd gone on their trips. They hadnt spoken to Luan, who was always working, or gotten more than their first encounter with Geneva. Ken they knew; hed helped find a lot of them. But the others were more mysterious. And Geneva?

Sometimes Daly still heard stories about her. From adventurers, no less. And every time Quallet came back with his growing company, newer members of Gravetenders Fist would be with him, just to see if the myth had any feet. Daly couldnt tell what they thought after meeting Geneva. But it was the question everyone asked at first.

What was the Last Light of Baleros like, really? What was Geneva, the [Doctor] like as a person? Daly had seen her on the battlefield. But he had known Geneva afterwards. And what she was like was

The door opened. Ken heard an exclamation from the stairs, and then a shout.

Ken! Aiko! Geneva!

Everyone turned. Half the room shot to their feet and crowded the door. Ken heard a familiar voice, exclamations, and then Paige shouting.

Alright, everyone, back up! Back up and let them through!

Hers was not the voice of a [Negotiator], but sometimes you just needed to be loud. The Earthworlders moved back and Daly saw a familiar face. Ken was wearing the conical hat, but it was pushed back, and he was smiling, shaking hands. His face lit up as he saw Daly and the Australian felt a jolt of relief in his stomach.

Ken!

He pushed his way forwards. Ken approached slowly through the crowd.

Daly! Its good to see you!

Weve missed you. Could have used you yesterdayand Aiko too! Hello there!

Hello, Daly! Hello Paige! And Kirana, Priya

Aiko lit up as she hugged her friends from India. Daly looked around. People were crowded about, Blake, Nicola, Lorenzo, and Diana were craning to see

And then there was a moment of calm. Heads turned. Some of the laughter died out, and people turned to see the third member of the company whod come back.

No one leapt forwards to hug her. She did not tower over the others; she was a bit short of six feet, tall for a young woman, and dressed in travelling clothes. But that wasnt what marked her. Geneva Scala could have been any young woman with Italian heritage. But her eyes. They were

Intense.

Yes. Intense was the word. Look at Geneva from the side and you might not sense it at first. But take one look at her gaze, or notice how she moved, how she walked or even stood. It wasnt posture, so much as readiness. She felt intense, and if Ken made you relaxed, Geneva made you check the skies for a storm, or listen to the wind. She had the same pressure in her gaze that Daly sometimes saw in Siris eyes when they were about to enter combat, or in Dawsons. Or his own, in the mirror on dark nights.

You wanted to know what Geneva was like? A look said it all. She looked around the room, clearly conscious of the effect her entrance had had. She nodded.

Hello.

Ken could have said that and turned it into an opening for conversation. Genevas statement somehow shut it down. That was Geneva, even when she wasnt acting as a [Doctor]. She was just driven, when there was nothing to drive.

And she didnt smile often. Sometimes, Daly thought shed forgotten how. Then shed give him a natural smile and hed know it wasnt Geneva who was doing the smiling. Daly looked around. People were hesitating, silent, unsure of how to greet her. He wondered if Geneva had the same effect on Lizardfolk. Probably not. Even her personality had limits.

Still, it was awkward, so Daly did his best. He put a smile on his face, reached out, and slapped Geneva on the shoulder. She blinked at him.

Good to see you, Geneva! Our [Doctor]s back, everyone!

There was a pause. Geneva stared up at Daly and she saw her lips twitch. Then a natural, welcoming smile came over her face. It looked completely normal. But Daly still felt a shiver run down his spine. A natural smile, but she hadnt given it.

Good to be back! Thanks, Daly.

And that wasnt her way of saying it either. But the effect was welcome. Everyone not in the know immediately relaxed, and the babble of voices broke out again. They crowded around Daly and Geneva and the others, asking questions. Ken had to hold up his hands and raise his voice.

Please! Everyone! We just arrived. Let us give Paige some thingswe have souvenirs as well! And then we will have time to answer questions! Paige, I have a pack

Put it in my work room. Kirana, do we have food?

We have wonderful snacks!

The Indian girl beamed. There was a cheerand like that, the twin apartments were filled with people eating the snacks Kirana and the others were bringing out, sitting on the couches and floor and table listening to Ken relate the stories of where theyd been and what theyd seen, or Aiko doing the same, but from a different perspective.

And somehow, Daly found himself standing next to Geneva. That was the second thing youd notice, if you looked. Geneva Scala, the Last Light of Baleros, didnt command the room. After you got over the intensity of who she is, after you looked past the legend, you realized Geneva was justordinary. Or rather, she didnt do extraordinary things. In fact, she was fairly quiet. Until something demanded her attention.

Had a good trip?

Uneventful. But yes, perhaps. Theres good and badKens planning on filling you and Paige in tonight. We got some of the things she wanted.

Geneva sighed. She looked tired, and Daly imagined shed been travelling from dawn to arrive by midmorning. He coughed.

How was the road? Did you take a Centaur carriage?

No. Too expensive. We rode. Kens guide had ponies, so we made most of the journey on horseback. Not my idea of fun.

Aw, you dont like horses? Im partial to them myself. Although they are temperamental buggers.

Geneva looked up. She hesitated.

Next time Ill give you my seat.

It sounded like a joke, even if her delivery was terrible, so Daly laughed. Geneva didnt smile, but the corners of her mouth moved. The two looked over at Ken.

Is Luan?

Nope. He came in once. Dumped a bunch of gold coins on us, slept for almost two days straight, and then went back out. Said he had a big contract. Hes really gunning to get a Courier rating.

Geneva looked concerned.

He should take it easy.

Thats what I said. But did he listen? Hes flying up in levels, Geneva. He did ask about Aiko, but that was it.

Oh. Aiko asked about how Luan was doing too. She had something she wanted to talk to him about. I dont know what.

Ah.

Both Daly and Genevas eyes slid towards Aiko, who was happily chatting away. Geneva shuffled her feet. Daly bit his lip. As far as they knew, it was just friendship. But you had to wonder. Luan was married, but Aiko had admired him until shed learned about that pressing fact. It was probably nothing. And if it was?

Sodid you encounter any trouble on the road worth mentioning? How were your guards? Did you need an escort? The Bushrangers are doing better. Weve taken a good number of contracts since you leftall hunting or recon ones. We could spare some of our own if you need it next time.

The [Doctor] looked up, and then shook her head slightly.

No, our Selphid [Guards] worked very well. Not that there was any need for violence. They did stop a [Thief] from targeting Aiko one time, but the trade roads are very safe. Honestly, we probably didnt need them. But theyve said we can hire them again and Calectus name is still good.

Well, well definitely have you going with someone. Alones too risky for my tastes.

Daly frowned. Geneva nodded. The two stood together another moment, as something Ken said elicited a laugh. Then Daly had to ask.

Sohowd it go? The cities, I mean? Did you get the companys name out? Obviously you didnt find anyone from homebut how many people did you see?

He had to know. Daly had been hopingdreaming, really, of Kens small expedition to the nearby cities coming back with a bucket load of gold coins. Enough to put the company in the black for months and give Daly time to think about outfitting his Bushrangers, and Paige the money to really get to work on translating things from their world over here.

They hadnt gotten any [Messages] that indicated wild success, but that wasnt the sort of thing you advertised, was it? Especially since rumor had it that some [Mages] were on the take and would sell you out to [Bandits] or other lowlifes. Or just sell your information to anyone who wanted to be in the know.

Daly was hopeful. Right up until he saw Geneva look down. She clenched her hands, and then looked him dead in the eye. There was that intensity. But that was just Geneva on the surface. Behind that, what shed been through, there was a normal person there. And the guilt in her eyes told him everything before she opened her mouth.

Nothing.

What? Nothing?

Geneva nodded. Daly saw her close her eyes, and then she spoke slowly. Quietly, above the chatter in the room.

Nothing. I performed two surgeriesremoving an old arrowhead, and pulling three rotten teeth. Thats it.

Daly felt his stomach drop as if Geneva had slugged him.

But

But youre the [Doctor]. Theyd sent her with Ken to learn what she could, so Ken could make introductions, get their company known. And Geneva was their ace. The miracle worker. The Last Light whod rake in the coin performing surgeries. That was the plan. But Geneva just shook her head.

They had [Healers] who could do a lot with potions, poultices, and so on. And there are [Doctors] in this worldor at least, people who can perform the most basic of surgeries. With healing potions though, thats all they need.

Of course. Daly imagined it. Cut yourself? Healing potion. Break a bone? Set it and use a healing potion. Lay your leg wide open so you could see the bone? More expensive healing potion, or a [Healer]. And he saw it in Genevas eyes. Frustration. She looked away.

No one needed me.

It would have been easy if Daly got angry. But he didnt. Geneva saw him take the bad news like a physical blow. She knew it would hit the others hard, once news got around. Ken was only telling stories of what theyd seenhuge, sprawling Lizardfolk cities, magical artifacts, towers built out of magicked stone that were tallalthough not on the level of skyscrapers. Interesting people, fascinating experiences. But nothing about the money.

So how much did it cost?

The young man from Australia looked ready for the worst. Geneva paused.

Weve got sixteen gold coins. So a little over two thirds of what we left with.

A huge sigh left Dalys mouth. That was a lot of money spent. But if theyd used the full amount, it would have been a lot of moneyprobably a month of the Bushrangers working their bestlost.

Not bad. Howd you manage it?

Like I said, I did two surgeries. And Aiko earned some money doing her manga sketches of people.

Caricatures?

Daly smiled for a moment. Geneva nodded.

Close. Lizardfolk loved them. And Ken saved us money by being Ken. He talked us into better rates for practically every inn we stopped at. Same for the [Healers] I visited.

So you did get what you needed? Theres something, at least.

Daly was trying to put a good spin on it. Geneva frowned.

Yes. And theres a bit of progress there. But again

She couldnt lie to him. Even if she wanted to. Daly hesitated. It would have been easier if he said how disappointed he clearly was. But he didnt. Instead, he did the best thing possible. He put his hand on her shoulder and gave her a smile.

Hey, Im glad youre back. We need you here.

It was the perfect thing to say to make Geneva feel worse. She just nodded.

Im sorry.

Hey, whats to be sorry about? If they dont need surgerieswe should have thought of that. And frankly, it was bum luck. There could have been work for you. Someone slips, cuts off a handor has an accident that a potion cant handle?

Geneva nodded. That was true. There could have been a dire situation that only she could have solved. But it hadnt come up, though theyd visited a few sprawling large cities with people living together in the tens or hundreds of thousands. No one had needed her, even when Ken was selling Genevas talents as loudly as possible. Because there wasnt a war going on. And that meant Geneva couldnt do much.

What she could do, in the end, was teach what she knew. She could make a field surgeon out of Aiko, and anyone else who wanted to learn. She could teach them how to operate, remove shrapnel, staunch bleedingbut what use was that to someone when a healing potion could do the same?

If someone lost a limb

It has to be fresh. And ice isnt that common around here. No one thinks to ice a limb, Daly. If word got out what I could do, I imagine they might. But

That was something Geneva had on healing potions and [Healers]. She could cut away organs or limbs affected by poison, magical rot, and so on, and use spot-applied healing potion to regenerate the area. She could also reconnect an arm or leg if she was very, very quick and the limb hadnt begun to rot. In those two areas she was useful. But the rest? Not at all.

So I didnt do much. I wish I could say I did, but I was useless on the trip. I would have told you by [Message], but Ken said it was better to break the news in person.

Or rather, what hed predicted was that anyone who was at the Mages Guild would spread the word about rather than just relay it to Paige or Daly. The Australian nodded. He frowned at Geneva, clearly trying to think of something to say. And then he had it.

I think the Centaur boycolt, sorry, please excuse my mistakeyou saved would disagree. And the [Wood Cutter]. And Quallet.

Thats true, I suppose.

But those were all people shed helped earlier. She could have stayed in Talenqual and both of them knew it. Daly coughed, looked around, and then waved.

Hey Kirana! Can we get one of those? Kirana, you know Geneva, right?

Yes! I know Geneva. Hello. Would you like one? This is a dahi kebab. Vegetarian.

Hm.

Geneva recognized the deep-fried vegetable dough ball that was offered. She took one, and bit into the bread-crumb exterior. It was still warm and delicious. Daly snagged two and Kirana scolded him.

Hey! Ill share with Geneva.

Are you doing well?

Yes, thank you!

Kirana smiled at Geneva. The two paused, because Geneva had nothing else in her arsenal to say. Then Kirana turned as someone shouted her name from the kitchen.

Youre terrible at talking to people. Were you always like this? Eat the kebab. Its really good.

Shut up.

Daly glanced at Geneva, then realized who she was talking to. He bit into his kebab and his eyes opened wide.

Bloody hell, thats good! No wonder were spending so much on our food budget each week!

Geneva savored the rest of the dahi kebab. It was very good, and she suspected it had been chosen to appeal to the widest variety of peoplethere were some vegetarians mixed in the Earthworlders, although some had been forced to compromise their values to survive.

First time having them?

Kirana and her lot are always coming up with new stuff. They practically run the kitchens now. Indian cooking works really well with Baleros markets, apparently. Lots of spices, similar foods

Thats lucky. Perhaps we could sell some of the foods they make?

Paige was talking about that. Kirana wants to hit at least Level 15 before we try that, but shes open to the idea. Really, the issue would be getting a market stall or somewhere to sell from. And the ingredients. Its not too bad, but we might need someone to stand watch. And

They needed money, but they were waiting for us to come back. Genevas last bite soured in her mouth. She nodded.

Well work something out.

What else could she say? She turned as she saw Ken had gotten up. He waved at the people who were protesting, and trotted over to her and Daly. He gave the Australian a smile.

Daly, I wanted to talk to you.

If its about the money, Geneva just filled me in. No worries, mate.

Kens eyes flicked to Geneva for a second.

She did? Well, I think it is disappointing, but it is not all bad.

Thats what I was saying. You guys did accomplish the rest, right? Paiges disappeared upstairs.

Ken nodded.

We did do good work. I introduced our company to many others, and Geneva did meet with every high-level [Healer] in the cities we visited. I think it was productiveI also have many things to share with everyone. A map of the world, and Ive learned of other continents. And Ive learned about the Four Great Companies.

Daly exhaled. Geneva could see him taking that on, bolstering his mood. Now why couldnt she have said it like that? Probably because she hadnt done any of that. Except for spending money bribing [Healers].

Making connections, huh? Good lad! Dont suppose youve got anything that would help us out? The Bushrangers, I mean?

Actually, I did. I met a few groups who were interested in yours. I know their names and I wanted to share them with youlater. There were a few intriguing job offers that I saw in other cities.

We should take our group on the road, then?

Maybe. But I will share more tonight.

People were already calling for Ken to come back. He waved at them again. Daly smiled.

Well, I can wait. But oh! Before you gowe had a little adventure of our own. We just finished a contract hunting these armored pigsStelbore theyre called, when guess what? We got word of some strange Humans hanging out in an abandoned village. So we checked it out and

Kens eyes widened.

You found more people from Earth?

Genevas head snapped up. Daly nodded.

Just yesterday they came in. Theyre still hungry, but we rescued four. A kiwiuh, a guy from New Zealand named Blake, and three Italians. The Italians barely speak English, but I thought you should meet them. And Geneva

Have you given them a checkup?

The Italian-American was looking around. Daly shook his head.

Only a once-over. They looked pretty finebut one of them has diabetes. We gave them your emergency treatment!

That only worried Geneva more. She looked at Daly.

Can I see them now? Are they here?

Oh yeah. Theyre still bulking up. Uhhold on. Let me get them. Hey! Blake, Nicola! Geneva wants to see you! Shell do a medical examination!

Daly raised his voice. The four newest Earthworlders looked up, startled. With Dalys help Geneva moved them upstairs to a room. Ken stayed below to keep chatting, but Geneva had something to do and she intended to do it now. Better yet, she knew Italian.

Oh, thank God! No one here speaks Italian! Are you really a doctor?

Nicola was incredibly relieved to speak in Italian rather than her faltering English. Geneva, whose Italian was rusty, faltered for a few sentences before speaking quickly with the other two. Lorenzo and Diana clustered around her, asking all the questions they couldnt due to the language barrier.

S, s, I am a [Doctor]. I was training in medical school before I came here. I want to give you a checkup to make sure all is well. Are you hurt? Diana, I hear you have diabetes.

Not very bad. But it was terrible. I was very sickuntil they gave me aa potion?

Diana explained. Geneva breathed a sigh of relief.

It is a stamina potion. It helps, although we do not have insulin to properly take care of you. But I promise, I will do my best. Please let me check you just in case first as I answer questions. There are many small ticks and insects in Baleros, as well as diseases. You are probably fine. But could you help me put up a curtain? Then I will check you one by one.

Quickly, she rigged up one of the privacy curtains that the company used to separate the genders when sleeping in a large room at night. Geneva got out a few tools from the pack shed carried on her journey and saw the three Italians and Blake, the girls first. They were less embarrassed to get a checkup from Geneva, especially because, and this was the tricky partGeneva had to see them in their underwear.

In fact, shed have liked to see them naked, but she settled for verbal descriptions and having them check themselves. That also meant Blake and Lorenzo had to check each others rears, an intimate experience neither enjoyed. But necessary.

No spots? No injuries or other pain? Swelling?

None. Thank you, Doctor Geneva.

Lorenzo replied, blushing a bit. Geneva didnt blushshe moved her stethoscope and bent her ear to listen to him breathing. She didnt know what shed do if she heard something terrible, but knowledge was the first step.

Breathe in. Hold your breath. Breathe outthank you. Youre quite healthy.

In the time since shed operated on the battlefield, Geneva had made a few more tools with the companys resources. She now carried a few items out of a general practitioners kit. Among them were a primitive wooden stethoscopereally just some paper and a tube to magnify the soundsa measuring tape, wooden tongue depressors, clean gauze, alcohol for disinfectant, and so on. But her real kit, which was useless now, was far more advanced.

Metal retractors, scalpels, scissors and hooks. Different sized needles with thread specialized for one kind of stitching or another. Clips, clamps, forceps, and tools to cut or snip bone. Sutures.

To most people, a surgeons gear might look like some kind of serial killers torture devices. And there were commonalities. Surgery wasnt pretty or pleasant. And unfortunately, Geneva had learned, it wasnt that useful either.

Back on Earth, Geneva had been studying as a general surgeon. Shed cut corpses open, and been a good student, but her actual experience had been almost all theoretical when shed been taken. Shed learned to be a surgeon the hard wayby killing her patients before shed improved.

And a surgeon wasnt the same as someone practicing general medicine, no matter what people thought. But since Geneva was the only person whod taken classes and read up on medicine, she had to fill that role too. She summarized her report to Daly and Paige as the four headed back downstairs, relieved and chattering to themselves.

Theyre fine. Completely. Dianas one to watch, but theyre all fairly healthy for people who survived the jungle. Their only complaint is just malnourishment, I think. The bug bites arent infected, they show no signs of feverand the scars show no sign of inflammation. Keep feeding them simple foods in smaller meals.

Were doing that. Anything we should do for Diana? I have her carrying the stamina potion like Filip and Ive told Nicola what to do, but is there anything else?

Geneva shook her head.

All we can do is stabilize her with the potion if her hyperglycemia begins acting up. Frankly, Id rather have low blood sugar than highas far as I can tell, stamina potions generate some kind of insulin that will regulate the high blood sugar, but it requires a high-grade potion. Low blood sugar is simple. We can give her calculated amounts of food. But she and Filip need to keep regulating their intake. Its guesswork, but Ill monitor them

She saw Paige and Daly nodding, and felt like a fraud. They listened so attentively to her words. As if Paige and Daly hadnt done everything needed already. Daly had gone out there and rescued the four. What had Geneva done? Come back, proclaimed all was well and they were doing a good job. But somehow the two Australians still looked relieved to hear Geneva say it.

Its a relief to have you back, Geneva. Well talk more when Kens free of everyonewell have to pry him away, but Im gonna grab us all after dinner for a chat. In the meantime, Im sure you could use some rest. Do you need to take a nap? Kirana could make you a lunch

I had something to eat, and her snacks. Thank you. I might walk about for a bit. But Ill be back for dinner. AhAikos pack is full of

I put it in my workroom. We filled your space with bodiesthe apartments are full to bursting at night. But you can take over my spot anytime. Just let me know.

Paige reassured Geneva. The [Doctor] nodded. What else was there to say? Nothing.

Then Illhead out for a bit. Exercise my legs.

Sure. Good to have you back!

Paige smiled. Geneva tried, but the courtesy was something she couldnt return. So her invisible friend did it for her. Which was worse, because both Paige and Daly knew Genevas secret.

Geneva! Will you come and talk with us?

Nicola called out as Geneva came back down the stairs. The young woman hesitated. The Italians were clearly dying to speak to someone, but Geneva was saved by Paige.

I think Geneva needs to walk about. Why dont we work on some English? Youll need to learn, sadly. But weve got some useful stuff. One of us has a smartphone with a huge dictionary loaded onto it, and we might be able to transfer the files, or just switch phones. Do any of you know how to jailbreak phones? Because working with the software is tricky. We should also check your stuff for anything useful

Geneva exhaled as Paige took over talking to the four newcomers. Blake looked puzzled as he fished out his smartphone.

Id like to help, really, but my phones been dead for ages. Unless youve got a chargerand a solar panel?

Daly grinned.

Oh, mate. Youre going to love this. Guess what? A magic spell charges up your phone.

No way!

The exclamation elicited laughter as the new Earthworlders flipped out. They fished out their electronicsthey only had phones, having been teleported while being on a busbut each one was a treasure trove of data. As were they. As Paige explained as Geneva slowly edged over to the door, anything they knew from earth was invaluable.

Anything. Chemistrywe have a periodic table up but no one can remember the bottom partsmath, like the Pythagorean Theorem, knowledge of how to replicate different things from earth

Like cake! I remembered how to make that stuff. Beautiful!

Dawson blew a kiss. Daly laughed.

But your first cake was utter shit, mate! Leave the cooking to Kirana!

What, youre saying I cant cook? Shove off! Ill show you. Hey Kirana! Let me help with tonights dinner

We dont need more poison, Dawson! Weve got enough to kill the monsters with already!

One of the other Bushrangers hollered. Everyone laughed. Blake looked at Daly.

I suppose making weapons would be one of those important things, yeah?

Geneva froze. She looked at Daly and Paige. The [Engineer] girl hesitated and glanced at her.

We dont want it to spread. But yes. Anything you can tell me is useful. However, remember what I said about bringing up anything from home around others. I know how to make gunpowderI think.

And a lot of our techs not useful or too hard to build, frankly. Light bulbs, batteriesnot that great when you can just cast [Light]. Ill kiss you myself if one of you knows how to put together a steam engine, though.

Daly grinned. He felt at his back and then looked around.

Oh, right. You saw that we used crossbows, right mates? Theyre our bread and butter. Paige is trying to improve them, but its tough. Guns are out of our reach for the moment. Plus, half of us think a good crossbow is better than one of the old firearms.

And I told them under no circumstances could firearms be imported to Baleros mercenary companies. Geneva felt a pang. She knew what Daly did was important. And shed seen monsters. Even so. Blake was conferring with Lorenzo, who was interested. The young Italian was making a cranking motion with one hand. Blake was nodding.

Yeah, yeah. I saw your crossbows, Daly. They look good. Ever think of making a ballista?

Sure. Well mount it on our elephant. Too hard to carry, mate. But Paige is working on a monster one. Well put it on Dawsons back.

Oi, Daly! Whatve I done to deserve all this?

Recently?

Another laugh. Blake nodded, but now he looked excited.

Yeah, but have you thought aboutdo you know about repeating crossbows? Lorenzo was saying that theres one that shoots like that. Chinese or something

He got no further because Paige reached out.

Tell me more! No wait, sketch it!

There was an uproar. Geneva hesitated. Repeating crossbows? That soundedterrible. She imagined the damage one crossbow could inflict. And if you chained it up like a machine gun

Sounds useful.

Geneva ignored the voice. She walked outside. Somehow, it was cooler outside than it was inside. All the body heat of so many people crammed together. But not less humid. Geneva looked around the bustling street, took a few breaths, and then began to walk. She needed to walk.

So. She was back. Daly had taken the news well. So had Paige. Neither one would say they were let down. But Geneva felt bad enough anyways. Shed earned no money. She hadnt had any patients. And shed wanted to, as horrible as that was.

She was part of the United Nations company. Named after an ideal of Earth. A company that was the only thing protecting the scattered people from her planet. They were poor, but everyone was pitching in. And Geneva was trying. But she felt useless today, and most days after leaving the war between the Roving Arrow Company and the Razorshard Armor company.

And what was worse, in a sick way, she missed the battlefield. She missed being needed all the time. Here she was dead weight unless someone was hurt, and healing potions trivialized how much she could add. What good was a [Doctor] without patients?

Youre being mopey again.

Someone spoke in her head. Geneva sighed. It was her invisible guest. The reason Geneva was never alone. Okasha the Selphid voiced her opinion, speaking in a very quiet voice in Genevas head. No one else heard. No one else could hear. Because Okasha lived in Genevas body. She was a Selphid possessing a living being, the most heinous of crimes a Selphid could commit. If anyone found out, Okasha would die. But she had done it to save Genevas life.

A long time ago. No, mere months ago, Geneva had been working as a [Doctor]. An enraged [Sergeant], Thriss, had struck a blow along her spine, paralyzing her. Geneva would have died from blood loss or at Thirss hands, if it werent for Okasha. The Selphid [Rogue] turned into [Nurse] had killed the sergeant, and then offered Geneva a choice.

Shed gone into Genevas body, bridged the gap and the destroyed nerves, and now helped Geneva move. Without her Geneva would be helpless. And she could do more than just that. She was Genevas protector, her friend, and the literal voice in her head.

Sometimes she was a quiet passenger that only did a few things, usually with Genevas left hand like swat at flies. Other times she was active. She could possess Geneva at will. Not that she usually did that, but a smile, a twist to avoid stubbing her toe, waking Geneva up in the morning at the right time.

Geneva had grown used to Okashas presence over the months, but it was still strange. She shared her body now. And unfortunately, that meant sometimes the person she was sharing it with had a difference of opinion.

Im fine. I deserve to be depressed. We didnt bring anything back.

You got information. And the [Healers] did give you what you wanted.

Daly was expecting us to come back with coin. Instead, we just wasted what he worked so hard to get.

Geneva heard a sigh in her head. The Doctor spoke, her lips barely moving. Okasha didnt need to hear the words out loud; she was in Geneva and could read her vocal chords and muscles. Her voice was distinct from Genevas own as well, at least when she wasnt using Genevas vocal chords, and she could change Genevas voice in astonishing ways if she chose to as well.

Okay, but what does being sad help with any of this? Its pointless and it just makes your mood worse. Cheer up.

I dont want to. Okasha, dont

Too late. As she was walking, Geneva suddenly felt a jolt of emotionsa compounded mix of excitement, energy, and what she could only describe as happinessshoot through her. She stumbled, and Okasha steadied her. Geneva felt the Selphid doingsomething in her. It wasnt a horrible feelingnot like the Selphid writhing about.

Okashas biology allowed her to spread out incredibly finely, and her control was impeccable, at least with practice. Geneva was the first living being shed ever been in, so occasionally there were accidents. But not now.

Whatever was running through Geneva pepped her up in a moment. Instantly, she felt better. The funk clouding her mind vanished. Geneva felt her spirits rise. And then she grew angry.

Stop that!

A passing Dullahan looked around and saw Geneva scowling at the air in front of her. He opened his mouth and then Geneva snapped again, apparently to no one.

I didnt ask you to do that. I hate it when you do that! Dont do it again, understand?

The Dullahan decided to walk faster. Okasha was unmoved.

I just tweaked a few things. It was just a little adjustment, nothing big. Dont worry.

Geneva scowled.

I know exactly what you did. Those were hormones. Dopamine, serotonin, endorphins. You released them into my brain, my system to make me feel better.

It was incredible and scary to think Okasha could do that at will. But Geneva knew what shed felt, even if she couldnt control the effect it had on her body. She sensed Okasha hesitate.

Hormones? No, it wasnt that. Its uh, completely different. Look, its just this little

Dont play games. Im a [Doctor]. I know everything about my body.

That was a lie. But Okasha fell for it. She was surprisingly gullible, or she overrated Genevas knowledge.

Damn it. Okay, Im sorry. I was just trying to behow did Humans ever learn so much about their own bodies?

We had to. We didnt have healing potions or magic. We fought plagues and disease, advanced on the backs of a few people who found a cure, a new way of doing things.

They had no magic on Earth. No Selphids either. If they did, most of the mysteries that had taken scholars and doctors centuries to uncover would have been solved instantly. Selphids knew almost everything there was to know about the bodyeven if they didnt have the medical lexicon that Geneva did.

Im sorry, Geneva. Im just trying to be helpful.

By smiling at people? Thats not me, Okasha.

Would it kill you to be friendly? Oh wait, you cant smile.

And you smile and then they think Im crazy because I dont act like you.

Well, excuse me for caring!

Geneva heard something like a gurgling sob in Okasha voice. The Selphid went quiet and Geneva felt her left side begin to drag a bit. Okasha had stopped assisting Genevas movements and was just passively feeding Genevas instructions to her body. When that happened her left side was slower to react. Genevas stride became a limp, but the [Doctor] took a vicious pleasure in knowing her body was under her imperfect control. Then she felt a bit guilty. But she did hate thinking Okasha was influencing her. It was just

The streets of Talenqual were filled with people. Hawkers selling goods, people going about their business. And children. A Dullahan ran past Geneva, then tripped. She was a little girl, with her head attached to her shoulders and covered by a ratty scarf. Her armor was very poorplant matter and bark as opposed to anything else. Partially a beggar. She bumped into Geneva and caught herself.

Whoops! Sorry, Miss Human

She gave Geneva a gap-toothed smile, quite unusual for a Dullahan. But children took after every culture, didnt they? Geneva stopped.

Im fine. Are you

Her right hand, which had been reaching for the Dullahan child as she backed away, suddenly shot forwards and grabbed the Dullahans wrist. The child yelped in alarm. Geneva heard a growl. Her voice. And her face was suddenly scowling.

Drop it.

Okasha glared with Genevas body. The [Doctor] froze in alarm, but the Selphid had control of her body. The Dullahan tried to get awayher arm began to detach from her body, but Okasha just tightened her grip.

Leave your arm and Ill bring it to the Watch. Want to live as a one-armed Dullahan wanted by the City Guard all your life?

Fine!

The Dullahan withdrew a pouch and tossed it on the ground. Genevas coin pouch. The [Doctor] gaped mentallyshe hadnt even realized it was gone! Okasha was unimpressed, though. She snagged the pouch, checked it, and put it back on her belt. Only then did she let go and glare at the [Pickpocket].

Get lost. A poor thief picks on [Healers] and [Doctors], kid. Next time at least go for a [Merchant].

The Dullahan girl fled. Okasha walked Geneva forwards as the crowd, who had noticed the incident, resolved itself back to normality. A few people shot Geneva admiring glances; Okasha kept Geneva moving until Genevas heart rate had slowed. Then they had another conversation.

Thank you.

No problem. You want to walk?

Yes.

Alright then. Your turn.

Genevas pace faltered, and then returned to normal. Geneva looked around, but the Dullahan child was long gone.

You scared her.

Okasha was unmoved.

So? I dont feel bad. I would have kicked her if youd let me.

Kicked her?

Geneva was appalled. Okasha punched Genevas right shoulder with her left hand, lightly. A Lizardgirl on the road eyed Geneva with interest.

Its for her own good. She has to learn not to be caught. Or the next time someone gets her, shell lose her arm, her handor just her life.

The thought was incredibly depressing to Geneva. She looked around again, as if she could draw the girl out of the crowd.

Then we should have helped her.

How? By giving her your coin purse? Someone will just rob her. Or shell spend it and steal again and again. Thats how I grew up.

No. She needs someone to take care of her. If her family isnt there, or if theyre not responsible, she needs a home. Guidance.

Planning on saddling the United Nations company with a mouth thatll steal from them and bring trouble down on them?

No.

But that was the option, wasnt it? Geneva bit her lip.

On Earth, there are institutions that help people in need like her. Orphanages. Soup kitchens. Homeless shelters.

And do they save everyone?

The cynicism in Okashas voice made Geneva acutely aware of what a lie it would be to say yes. She shook her head.

No. But its something. The system is there, even if it is flawed. Its

A helpless rush ran through her. This time Okasha did nothing to stop it. Geneva walked on, looking around. Yes, Baleros had richness, and beauty. But it was a world. This was a city. There was just as much darkness to it. And in Geneva.

That was the problem. Okashas hormonal treatment could only do so much. Geneva spoke out loud as she walked down the street.

Itsnot just me being disappointed in myself, Okasha. I told you. Ive diagnosed myself. Ive had a traumatic event. Im not sure of all of Post Traumatic Stress Disorders symptoms, but Ill bet I have it. Me and Daly and at least half of the United Nations company. The four newcomers certainly did.

You told me about that. I still dont quite get it. I mean, I do. Youre shaken up from battle. But youll get over it. Everyone does.

Will we? People from Earth arent used to war, Okasha. At least, the ones from countries like Nicolas arent. Therere cultural differences, a difference in expectations. Most Humans dont even see butchered animals. Many will go most of their lives without seeing a dead body more than once or twiceand usually in nonviolent situations.

And even if they do see them, its on the news or at a remove. Its not war.

Okashas voice was wondering in Genevas head.

I cant imagine a world like that. But if thats so, perhaps I do understand a bit. Youre all like the children of nobility. Sheltered. So you have this PTSD thing, which makes you sad and depressed all the time, is that right?

Itsthe barest of summaries, but I suppose so. There are a lot more complications to it, let alone treating the problem. Mental illness is not my field of study.

Geneva grimaced.

But I suppose it is, now. Im not qualified to be more than an assistant in the operating room back home. Here? Im the font of medical knowledge.

Oh no. Here we go againyou know what you need, Geneva?

What?

Sex.

Geneva tripped. Okasha caught her effortlessly and kept her walking, turning her head back and forth as pedestrians walked past her.

Im just saying, thats what we did back in the companies. A new soldier gets the shakes after a battle? Get them drunk, get them laid, and get them a break. Three, four battles after that, if theyre alive, and theyre fine.

Having sex is not a solution, Okasha. Its escapism

It feels good and you should do it. Whats wrong with that?

For one thing, I have you in here with me!

Is that why you dont masturbate? Look, Im totally fine with it. Ill help, actually. Heck, Ill do it for you.

Geneva closed her eyes. One shot back open.

Watch your step! And dont get judgmental! I have needs too! Look, if youd just considerwhat about him?

What about him?

Well?

No.

But come on! Im sure hed be interested. Let me do the talking, though. Unless he likes stone-faced [Doctors] with no sense of humor.

Daly laughed at my jokes.

He was humoring you. Although hes a good optionuh, unless hes still moping about Quexa. I should have told him Lizardfolk dont do long-term relationships when theyre younger. Hey, you think he and Paige are

No.

Okay, what about him? Come on, I know you like him.

No.

Geneva, thats an objectively sexy body. Look at it!

Im not dating a Centaur, Okasha.

Who said anything about dating?

Geneva shut up. The problem with arguing with a Selphid in your body was that they could tell when you were lying, and what you were feeling. The heart palpitations, sweatOkasha admitted it was new to her to have a living body doing these things, but she was good at monitoring a body and she gloated now.

You and I have the same taste, which is good taste. Admit it! Come on, Geneva. Just one night? Or we can take it slow. I bet you we can get an empty room for a moment in the apartments. Or, hell, Ill settle for a tree in the jungle, although if there are bugs

Will you be quiet!?

But Im restless. Geneva! Do you know how quickly nerve endings wear out in a dead body? Theres a reason we call it fresh body fun, you know.

Not in my body. Not now, thank you.

Wait, does that mean later

Geneva groaned. This was going to be a problem. But Okasha was living with her. It was like having a roommate you couldnt get rid of. Not without suffering full-body paralysis and your roommate being incredibly vulnerable to harm or diseases. That kind of relationship everyone had. She changed the subject abruptly.

Im going to talk with Daly and Paige tonight. See if I can do somethinganything to help. At least I can tell them about the diseases and my progress there.

She heard Okasha shudder.

Horrible stuff. Okay, at least youre perking up! See? Even talking about sex

But until then, I want you to help me exercise, Okasha.

Geneva heard Okasha whine.

Again? But I did that yesterday!

And two days ago. It needs to happen at least three times a week, Okasha. Preferably more. You know itll be beneficial.

Yeah, but youre not the one doing it. And its really tiring! Why do I have to do it?

Geneva hesitated. This called for some delicate negotiations and Ken was nowhere in sight. She thought for a second, and then spoke quietly.

If you do it, Ill eat that awful stuff you like so much.

She sensed Okasha growing excited.

Xelca meat? You promise?

Geneva grimaced. She hated xelca meat. But Okasha loved the stuff. Especially if it was fried up in lots of grease. Geneva liked pasta, but Okasha hated the stuff. To Geneva, it was home cooking and delicious if done right. But the Selphid didnt like grainy foods. It was a sore point that often resulted in them eating pasta with xelca meat, which both could agree on.

I promise. Ill even ask Kirana to make some.

And buy it fresh!

The young, Italian woman sighed, but with resignation.

Deal.

Alright then! Here I go! You dont mind if I do it now, do you? Keep walkingIll try not to make it affect your legs. Okay, how long per muscle? I know, I knowfull body workout. And that core thing you keep talking about.

Thank you.

Geneva felt Okasha moving slightly through her body, and then she felt her leg muscles suddenly contract. Her stride didnt change, but suddenly her muscles were working in her leg. Geneva didnt feel much more beyond the movement though. She heard Okashas voice in her ears.

Exercise, exercise, move that muscle, suppress that lactic acid. Boring. Move again, move again

The Selphid was singing a childlike nonsense song as Geneva felt her moving the muscles in her body. Tensing them, pulling and stressing and really just damaging them to induce the same effects as if Geneva was giving her arms, legs, and core a vigorous workout. But the Selphid was far more advanced than any workout regime; she could even play with the hormones and induce the growth needed for Geneva to gain muscle in the right places.

And that place was everywhere. From the legs, Okasha moved up to Genevas thighs and stomach, working out her abdomen which had been mostly fat until recently, her upper arms, and even her neck. Not too vigorously; Geneva had no desire to be some kind of inhuman body builder, no matter if Okasha thought she could do it. But she did think being in prime physical shape would be very handy, and a Selphid was the easiest way to that goal.

In fact, Geneva felt a bit guilty sometimes. She was gaining abdominal muscles at an extraordinary rate. Any beach-going narcissist back at her world would kill for a Selphid to manage their bodies like Okasha did hers. But it wasnt just vanityokay, it was a bit of vanitybut as Okasha concentrated on Genevas arms she did the truly important work. Geneva wanted her arms to be stronger.

Her hands especially. Geneva was aware that a surgeons hands and techniques could change the outcome of a surgery, so shed asked Okasha to figure out a way to give her more muscular strength, more fine control. And the Selphid had managed just that. Not only could she improve things like Genevas grip strength, she could tell exactly what parts of Genevas body were sore and redirect her bodys resources to deal with the problems.

In some ways, Selphids are the answer to every biological issue weve been seeking. Pacemaker, nanobotsa Selphid surpasses modern technology in countless ways.

Geneva muttered to herself. She sensed Okasha pushed her hands open and give her a thumbs up.

We are useful, arent we? But this is dangerous, Geneva. Not for your bodybut if other Selphids started doing it. Not everyones like me.

Not as ethical?

The Selphids voice grew serious as she worked Genevas hands, making them twitch as Geneva shoved them in her pockets.

No. Not by far. If I wanted to control you, I could. And with a living body, I could do a lot more than what other Selphids can. I could Rampage without issue since I can heal your body. And if you had a [Warrior]s body, it would be even stronger. Ive been thinking about that.

Geneva shivered. Okasha felt it and hurried to reassure her.

I wouldnt! Ever! I meant that in the sense that I can see why a living body is so dangerous. It makes Selphids more powerful than other species. Its too tempting. If we started doing it again, it would lead to the Selphid Empire, Im sure.

The Selphid Empire. A time when Selphids had ruled over other races. Yes, Okasha was right. That was a problem. Still, Geneva spoke mildly.

But I trust you. You could have taken my body if you wished to. Instead you share it. You let me have control. Why? Why be sokind?

For a second the Selphid paused. Then she spoke, simply.

You swore an oath not to kill. I have my own.

Genevas heart jumped. Okasha squeezed her hand gently, a gentle pressure on her nerves, as if Okasha was holding her hand. The two walked on.

This was why it worked. Because they could get along. Two chance roommates in a single body turned out to be friends. It was luck. Geneva said nothing more. But her spirits rose, and Okasha knew. The Selphid kept working her body and as promised, Geneva stopped by a meat vendor on the way back.

Xelca meat! Good when its hot, edible when its not! Get a stick, three coppers! Five coppers for two sticks!

That was a new slogan. And catchy. All the meat vendors were yelling it. Geneva had to smile as she paid for some xelca meat. That was Lizardfolk for you. Give them an idea and theyd run away with it.

Hey Geneva! Youre back! Whats that youve got?

Xelca meat. Kirana, can you make a little dish with it? Pleaseahplease fry it up.

Geneva sighed. Unbidden, her mouth opened again.

And can you make it extra greasy?

With vegetables, naturally.

Not that you need too many.

I prefer yellats.

But you really dont need to add them. Just meat is fine. Actually, deep-fried meat would be

Horrendous. So weIll just have some fried meat to go along with whatever youre making

A lot of fried meat.

But not too much, because Im sure you already have a meal in mind and Id be delighted to have that.

Oh. Right. Of course.

The look on Kiranas face as Geneva delivered that monologue was priceless. Daly nearly laughed himself sick as he covered for Genevaonly he and a few others knew her secret. Even the regular Earthworlders had no ideait was just too risky for anyone to find out about Okasha. The Indian girl took the xelca meat anyways and promised to turn it into something special. Daly grinned at her, but didnt mention Okasha out loud.

Ill say this, its nice having Kirana cooking. She knows enough vegetarian dishes to keep our picky eaters happyand theyre tasty for us meat eaters too! Dinner should be ready in a few. You want to sit? Kens still talking. Lips of gold, that one.

Of course.

Guiltily, Geneva realized shed been moping rather than acting like a responsible leader. She followed Daly back into the apartment and tried to actually contribute rather than drag everyone down. That meant, sadly, that she had to rely on Okasha to do some of the talking.

That night the United Nations ate like champions. In that they ate a lot, talked noisily, and were about as raucous and noisy as any group of young adults. It wasnt for everyone; Geneva knew that some people ate leftovers in smaller groups, but the act of socialization was important. Everyone she looked at had a job. Even if some had vacation days like Andel, or were off-duty like the Bushrangers, they worked for a living. It changed them.

Gone, gone were the young men and women who had wandered into Baleros. The ones before her were still growing, and still immature at timeslike Dawson, who was one of the older onesbut they also had a level of emotional awareness that others their age might lack.

There were no adults to run to, no one to solve their problems but themselves. Paige and Daly broke up fights, but the Earthworlders had to resolve problems themselves. Some didnt, but most rose to the challenge. As such, Geneva felt oddly at home, as if the young man of sixteen years old was a friend in his last year of medical college talking with her over his xelca meat mixed with curry.

Hey, anyone want a drink? Ive got some cheap erI think its a rum? Came off one of the boats! Not that crap they sell at the markets thatll kick you off your ass and then on your back, but its still strong stuff! Watch yourselves mind. If youve got work

Dalys warning went unheeded as a shout went up and most of the table raised their glasses. He went around dishing out the alcoholic drink. Geneva had a glass herselfshe watched as a girl of fifteen had a small shot mixed with a fruit juice.

No one raised an eyebrow. Alcohol was necessary. It helped take the edge off, and aside from Americans, most of the Earthworlders had tried alcohol. And it had the other effect of taking off the most tired to their beds after dinner. Full stomachs, excitement, and a bit of drinkpeople dropped off left and right.

There were some who stayed up, like the Bushrangers who werent working, but theyd had their fill of Kens stories enough not to groan too hard when Daly looked around and announced that the kitchen in the west apartment was now off-limits.

Hed chosen it because it had a door. Daly stood up as Geneva got to her feet. He approached her, smiling, but with a hint of reserve.

Time for our chat. But uh, Geneva, I know this is an important meeting, but Michaelyou know, from Spain?hes worked up some cards. Wood, but we wanted to play some games. If you wanted to talk, we could do that before

Geneva was determined not to bring the group down. And in fact, this suggestion appealed to her. So she cut Daly off with a nod.

Fine by me. But bring the alcohol. We might as well make a proper game of it.

Dalys surprised smile was enough of a reward. That was how Geneva found herself sitting at a table, playing on wooden, painted cards with Siri, Daly, Paige, Ken and Aiko. They represented the United Nations leadershipalthough Luan was as yet missing. Siri was a new addition, but Daly explained her presence simply.

Shes the best of us Bushrangers and a solid head. If Im ever unable to take over, Id trust Siri to make the right calls. Anyone object?

No one did. Ken did look around, though, with a small frown.

If Siri is Dalys um, backup, then Paige should be allowed to nominate someone. Is there anyone you would recommend we listen to, Paige?

Daly hesitated as he shuffled the thin, wood cards that Michael had made. They were simple, but even the act of shuffling them made some at the table perk up.

Dunno about the other guys. Dawsons a fighter, but hes a bit iffy sometimes. Paige?

She shrugged.

Theres no one Id call a leader. I handle the home front. Kiranas good, but she bosses around the girls from her country mainly. I think she has something on them, or theres a reason why theyre listening to her shes not saying.

Caste system? Doesnt India have that?

Mm. Might be? But I think its something else. Maybe her parents were someone famous. Or maybe shes just better at leading them. She had to get them out of the jungle after the guys got executed.

True. Ah, well. Well hold off on Kirana. Too many girls as it is. Yow!

Daly yelped. Ken smiled, and the Australian checked the deck.

Got fifty four cardsno jokers. But insteadhah! Good on Michael. Look.

He raised a card. Instead of the joker card, Michael had painted a [Doctor] wildcard, complete with a red cross. Geneva blinked at it as the others chuckled. Daly placed the two aside as he shuffled the deck.

Alright, before we get to chattingwhats our game? Swedish Rummy? Oh Hell? Donkey?

Aiko and Ken probably dont know those games. Dont make it complex, Daly. Lets just start with poker. We can go from there.

Daly shrugged. He began dealing out the cards. Siri looked at her hand as Aiko quietly asked Paige to refresh her on how to play.

What shall we play for?

How aboutcoins?

Oh come on

Not for real. Its all company money anyways. But we do have a bit of spending money. Say, we use that and pool it? But the winner takes likea few silver coins more than the others?

Geneva nodded and the others agreed. Soon, they were playing cards while talking, pausing only to bid and reveal who had the winning hand. Daly chuckled as he took the first bid with three twos.

So? I think weve all heard the bad news. No big haul from the expedition.

Siri looked up. Geneva had only met her once, doing her examination before shed left. The [Doctor] stared down at her garbage hand and shook her head.

Thats right. Im sorry

It wasnt Genevas fault! Healing potions are too useful!

Aiko protested. She was a poor player of poker, as was Ken. It wasnt a natural game to themthey probably would have swept the competition playing another game, though. Mahjong, maybe. Ken knew how to play that. Aiko was bleeding silver while Ken won a hand by luck.

Its fine Aiko. Thank you, but I cant say anything other than that I should have seen it coming. Theres no need for [Doctors] outside of a battlefield. Not as much need for them there either, frankly. Thats all.

Geneva sighed. That was the truth of it. If a company had healing potions in supply, even on the battlefield they could heal most injuries right off. Her business came from poor companiesor situations where healing potions were in short supply. Things like Evercut Arrows gave her work, but they were in short supply in taverns. Usually.

It cant be helped. But you did get me some of the ingredients I wanted. And you got our name out. Thats a plus. But Aiko did say you got some work done with the [Healers], Geneva.

The [Doctor] nodded as she placed her cards on the table.

Fold. Thats right. I went around to [Healers] and paid them to show me their poultices and secret recipes. Mainly in hopes of discovering something useful. I also investigated past diseases, plagues, and other ailments that occur on Baleros. To familiarize myself with them before I have to treat them.

She looked as Siri as she said this. The Swedish girl nodded seriously, placing two cards down and gesturing at Daly to give her two in return. She had an excellent poker face.

What did you find?

Honestly? A mixed bag. As I said, injuries arent nearly as bad here as they are in our world. True, amputations occur more frequently since healing potions have limits and surgery is primitive, but people survive amputations and there are magical prostheses.

Pro-what? Ken?

Prosthetics. Theyre

Ken lapsed into Japanese. Aiko nodded.

Oh! Like Quexas leg!

Except some are magic. Which means you can have an arm made out of fire or some shite like that. What else, Geneva?

Daly frowned at his hand. Geneva shrugged.

Illnesses arent as prevalent either. At least, plagues and other major outbreaks dont occur that often, despite the lower level of hygiene.

Oh come on. Why not?

Two reasons. Actually, three. First, a disease like a plague tends to move from city to city much slower, and the population density is lower here. Second, we havent as much international traffic. Less chance of diseases spreading to vulnerable populations without airplanes. Third

Healing potions?

The table groaned. Paige scooped up her winnings. Geneva frowned at her hand. She was getting trash.

But not in the way you think. Potions dont cure diseases, remember? They accelerate a bodys natural functions.

They make it worse.

Siri looked up. Geneva nodded.

Either a [Healer] figures out some kind of cure, or the potions make the disease worse and it kills off everyone it infects. Plagues are far more deadly in this world because of potions. And when a truly virulent one appears

The others fell silent. Paige grimaced.

Please tell me you can cure that. Or do something?

Geneva glared at her cards and slapped them down on the table, one by one.

I. Need. Antibiotics. But without them, there are some remedies that seem to work. Theres some antiviral and antibiotic components in each of the recipes I learned. Not strong ones, though. But itll do until we can find something like penicillin. Ive been using red wine or spirits as antisepticand theres honey, gingerand garlic.

How effective is it?

Geneva sighed.

Honestly? Dont get sick. I can do something for you, but Ill be relying on the bodys immune system as much as what I can do externally. But I am working on medicines. Poultices based off the [Healer]s personal remedies that combines the best. So Ill be able to do some workbut Im not about to try and cure diseases.

Unless we can get an [Alchemist] to figure out how to find the penicillin mold.

If it exists. And wont that be expensive?

Daly muttered sourly. The table fell silent. Geneva felt a pang in her stomach. Ken, whod lost every hand since his lucky one, looked up.

It is not hopeless, though. We are improving. A few months ago we were afraid of paying rent and eating rice. This is better. The Bushrangers are gaining fame. We are saving money. This is working.

The others looked up. Ken smiled around the table. Then his eyes slid to the cards.

Five copper coins.

He had a good poker face too. Geneva calmly slid her coins over.

Raise.

Call.

I Fold.

Fold.

Ken met Genevas eyes, a polite smile on his face.

I raise.

I foldno, I dontshut up, Okasha!

Two voices burst from Genevas mouth. She scowled and put down her cards as Siri blinked and Daly sat back. Paige and Ken showed their cards along with everyone else. Daly laughed as it was revealed that Geneva had pure trash and Ken had a straight. The [Negotiator] took the round, and the others tossed in their cards.

You had nothing!

Okasha protested with Genevas voice. The [Doctor] closed her eyes.

Thats why I was bluffing. Ken and Paige probably would have folded if we went another round. Okasha, youre terrible at gambling.

You have nerves of steel.

The Selphid grumbled. Ken smiled.

Hello Okasha. I probably would have folded. Geneva is very hard to read.

Hello, Ken. Hi everyone! Nice to meet you, Siri.

Okasha smiled with Genevas face and introduced herself. The Swedish girl had heard about Genevas secret, but she had to do a double-take and ask the usual questions of Geneva. Did it hurt? What was it like? Geneva answered as best she could as Daly narrowed his eyes at Ken.

Wait a secondare you reading our moods with your Skill?

I would not do that!

Ken protested innocently. And his meager coin pile attested to that fact. Geneva grumbled as the table got back to the game.

Let me do the gambling.

Fine. Ill drink. Pass me the bottle, Paige? Thank you!

The conversation passed back to the expeditions results. Ken had a lot to say. Hed been more than just a mouthpiece to talk up the United Nations company. Hed observed, listened, and gossiped with as many people as possible. And his conclusions were frank.

Baleros isdangerous. Of the other continents, it is one of the most dangerous. Chandrar and Baleros are considered to be roughly equalalthough Chandrar is more dangerous because of the climate than war. But Chandrar has slaves and the King of Destruction that we heard about.

Oh yeah. I heard people muttering about him.

Yes, he is concerning. But Baleros is just as dangerous. We were unlucky to come here, but luckier in some respects. There is a continentRhir. It is very dangerous.

I heard there are Demons there.

Demons? As in actual?

I think they are a type of monster, Daly. Not Demons likeyokai, Aiko, or anything else. But it is very deadly. On the other hand, Terandria and Izril are safer. There are Drakes, who are apparently very angry who fight with Humans and Gnolls on Izril. They hate Lizardfolk, but Humans live on the northern half of Izril.

And Terandria? Ive heard its mostly Human.

Yes, it is safebut it is farthest of the continents away from Baleros. All the continents are. Ship voyages are also dangerous and take a long time. We could hire a good ship and [Captain], but

Paying for all of us would be tough and wed be starting from scratch, huh?

Exactly.

On the other hand, its something to consider. Okay, how about where we are?

Well, I think we chose a good city. You see, we are here

Ken paused the game to pull out a map of Baleros. They were on the lower southeastern coast, and Talenqual was connected via the trade roads to most of the other major cities in the area. He outlined a few zones north and to the west.

There is fighting over there, but I think it is unlikely to come here. Talenqual is safe. Andthis may be good or badbut it is not controlled by a Great Company.

Daly nodded. He frowned down at the map. They were just a dot. Baleros was massive, and to Geneva, it vaguely resembled the Americas, albeit with a few noticeable differences. There was no Panama Canalthe continent was a fairly solid chunk that had a large southern jungle and vaguely hammer-esque north half. She watched as Daly traced their routebarely more than an inch on the map.

Hell, this place is big. Tell us about the Great Companies, Ken. Theyre the big players around here, right?

Ken nodded. He sat back as the card came took a nap and the others leaned in.

Okay. There are Four Great Companies. You know of them right?

Everyone sitting at the table nodded. How could you not? The Four Great Companies were the most powerful forces on the continent. More than nations, more than cities. Their reach was vast, and hundreds, possibly thousands of smaller companies had links to them.

Well, I asked and each one is different intemperament? Reputation, leadershipthey are all distinct. As you know, the Iron Vanguard is up north. They are mostly Dullahans.

A species company.

Paige put in. That meant a company that represented a species interests as much as their own advancement. Ken nodded.

But not all Dullahans. The Iron Vanguard is old and established in the north. The north is ah, cold. One of the only cold places in the world.

Pause. What do you mean only cold places, Ken?

The Australian girl frowned as she held out a hand. Ken pondered how to reply. Geneva stepped in for him.

Only two continents have snowy regions. Except for Chandrarthe desert might qualify as a tundra. But besides mountains, only two areas have semi-permanent snow. The north most parts of Baleros and Terandria.

Paige frowned.

Nothing on the south side?

Not a thing. Chandras farther south, and its a desert. But not snow. And there isnt an Antarctic region that I can tell.

Odd. Where is the equatorial line, then?

Siri traced a finger across the map, perplexed. Daly hesitated.

There might not be one. I was chatting with a bloke in the bar, and he claimed the earth was flat. Think thats right? Or is it just a round planet and no ones made the connection yet?

Ken shook his head gravely.

No, I think the earth may be flat, Daly. You seeI asked and there is an end of the world. Ships sail off it. It is a known fact.

Ah.

The table went silent. Everyone tried to digest that information. Paige sat back, shaking her head.

Two moons, a weird equator, the end of the worldI wish we had a telescope. Or a satellite.

You can build one later. Go on, Ken. The Iron Vanguards northern Dullahans. And?

Ah. You see, the Iron Vanguard has manyfortifications. The north is poorer, but it has some good metals to mine. So the Dullahans fortify itand the Iron Vanguard controls much of the region. They arean aggressive company. But they prize heavy armor.

Bunch of [Knights] tromping around tanking fireballs. I get it. And knowing Dullahans, theyre a right laugh.

Aiko giggled. Ken nodded. That was fairly spot on.

Their leader is the Seer of Steel. A [Juggernaut] with a body made of the most expensive armor money can buy.

Siri raised an eyebrow.

Why do they call him the Seer of Steel?

Geneva muttered into her drink. Okasha poured her another refill. Both of them liked alcohol.

Because he doesnt go into battle with his head. He leaves that far, far away in his fortress. He controls the body with a scrying orb in place of his head. That way you can only hit his body. Hes practically impossible to kill, or so its said.

Thats properly intimidating. But I suppose a big shot would be like that.

Daly slid his eyes sideways to Siri. Geneva wondered if they were trying to figure out how theyd kill something like that. Aiko looked around and spoke brightly.

Very scary. But the MalemaleKen, how do you say it?

Maelstroms Howling.

Thank you. Yes, they are not so bad. They are Centaurs! And Lizardfolk. They have a younger leader and her mother, and they control themiddle?

She pointed to the map of Baleros.

Very open plains. They have the most space, but since it is so wide, they cannot control

She mimed to say all of it. Ken nodded.

And there is another company which emerged recently. The Forgotten Wing Company. They seized a lot of land from the other companies. They are the closest to us. Based in the south.

Yes! They are led by the Titan!

Dalys brows show up.

I heard of that guy. The best [Strategist] in the world, right? What do you know about him?

Ken shrugged.

Much of is it gossip. So I did not trust it. But he was very intelligent. He teaches other [Strategists], and he is famous. Apparently he loves playing games of strategy? Anyways, his company is considered very powerful, but

He raised a finger.

It is considered fragile.

Fragile? How? Its a fucking massive company, isnt it?

Daly frowned. Ken nodded.

It is. But it is new. And people think that since the Titan and the leaderit has another leader called Three-Color Stalker whom no one knows except that she is a powerful [Assassin]they think that if those two die, the company will fall apart.

Ah. So a few high-level blokes are the only things holding it together.

Yes. Pretty much. But while they live, it is very dangerous.

And the last company? The Eyes of Baleros?

Siri was done drinking. She pushed her glass back and got some water instead. Ken frowned.

I know little other than they are based deep in the jungle. Very secretive. They have the smallest land, but no one fights them. They are a species company. Of Gazers.

The others at the table frowned. None of them had met a Gazer. From what they understood, they were a secretive people with huge eyes that had powerful magical properties. Ken hadnt been able to get much solid information about them, but what he had heard had disinclined him to meet them in person.

I have heard of Gazers and Ido not think they would be a good company to anger. From what I understand, the Eyes of Baleros is a very difficult company to work with.

Huh. So. We have a mixed company? The Forgotten Wing? A Centaur and Lizardfolk company, a Dullahan company, and a company made ofGazers.

Actually, it is Centaurs, Dullahans, Gazers, and the Forgotten Wing Company.

Aiko corrected Daly. Ken nodded.

There was a Lizardfolk company who was the fourth Great Company, but the Forgotten Wing company replaced them.

So theyre really dangerous. Fine. Thats valuable information, Ken. But from where I sit, were not in a position to tangle with them anyways. Im more focused on getting a solid base of support around here. Maybe work out a deal with Qualletfuck, I dont know. We need land or some big revenue source.

Daly sighed. Paige nodded as she knocked back another shot of rum.

I agree with Daly. Im not suggesting we attract attention to ourselves, but having some backup would be nice. Weve got allies, but theyre small players compared to a Great Company. And if war threatens, the company protecting this place, the Featherfolk Brigade, isnt going to necessarily cut it. They dont owe us anything, more to the point. And if they dont like another company basing themselves here

You want an army.

Geneva spoke quietly. Daly looked up. He hesitated.

Not one to fight with. Butthere are big [Bandit Lords] and other companies out there, Geneva. Id be reassured if we could scare them off rather than chance it if battle came calling.

There was nothing she could argue with about that statement. Geneva was well aware of how Baleros worked. The strong survived. Daly sighed longer, louder.

Honestly? A Gold-rank adventuring team would make any company hesitate. If we could get the Bushrangers to that level

Impossible.

Siri said it flatly. The Australian glared at her, but she was unmoved as she sipped her glass of water.

We dont have the levels, Daly. And though we do level, its too slowly. To level faster, to gain more money, we need artifacts to take on more monsters. Crossbows are too weak.

I know, but were paying the United Nations bills here, Siri.

She nodded, but the frown didnt go away. Paige looked between the two.

Im working on this new invention that might helpbut we could use money back at home too. The apartments so full that well start having fights.

And my tools and experiments take money. Rather than earn it.

Geneva looked into her glass. How many times had Okasha filled it? She slumped over at the table. Daly winced.

Dont mind me, Im just running my mouth. Look, Geneva. If you need money, well earn it. You just keep figuring out stuff like antibiotics, syringes, and so on. We can pay the bills with the Bushrangers.

But Daly, you just said it. You need better weapons. Armor. Artifacts.

Aiko looked worried. Daly grinned.

Dont worry. Thats if we want to take on bigger threats. We can earn a living just taking on lower-level monsters, right Siri?

The Swedish girl nodded reluctantly. Geneva tried to remember the Bushrangers telling stories of hiding in the forest while bugs ate them alive. But Daly acted like it was nothing.

Daly, you work very hard. If we can support you and your team

Ken began, but the young man from Australia waved a hand.

Dont worry about it. We can keep going on as were doing. Its not the most profitable, but hey, even if Dawson bitches about it, a few days of rest make up for some hard hunts. Besides

He smiled tiredly.

Its not like I do much around here.

Everyone looked at Daly. Paige shook her head and rolled her eyes. Ken frowned and slowly stood up.

I do not think that is true. You hold together the company when we are gone. We rely on you.

Naw, thats you and Luan and

Daly looked at Geneva. But Aiko was protesting.

I think you are excellent, Daly! We need you, so do not beKens whats the word?

Modest.

Modest, yes!

Daly flushed a bit.

Well, okay. But look, I just meant the Bushrangers can keep funding us. And Luans pulling in coin

Like I said, give me a few days, no one daytheres a lot Blake was talking about I want to try and I have this idea

Paige spoke up. Siri leaned forwards.

We can take on other assignments. If we get other weapons. They dont have to be magical. But I was thinking. What if we carried warhammers

For armor? Thats heavy

Well, only some of us. But with traps

I am going to talk to Kirana about opening up a stall outside! We can sell some of her cooking.

And if I can get the formula right, we dont even need to use metal. Ken told me about a Japanese version that

The conversation was growing confused. Lots of voices melded together. Geneva slumped at the table, pouring herself another drink. She whispered the word in between the voices.

Sorry.

So many people trying so hard. And here she was. She vaguely realized that Okasha was trying to get her to stand up.

Your liver isnt happy. And Imdrunk? We should lie down.

That was a good point. Geneva got up. She didnt remember excusing herself, only that the others were smiling and positive and shefelt useless. She trundled up the stairs. Paige had told her to go to her workshop to sleep. After two tries, Geneva found it.

She lay on the ground, world spinning around and round. Trying to think. Okasha was singing in her head, babbling. The silly Selphid was drunk. Couldnt hold her liquor. Not likeGeneva.

Whee. Hey, Ive never been in a living body, so I had no idea it does this when you get drunk. Did you know you have this weird thing that

Go to sleep Okasha.

At some point the Selphid did. Geneva felt it tugging at her mind too. She couldnt move anymore, even when Paige and Aiko stumbled into the room and went to sleep. Geneva just lay there, feeling the floorboards pressing against her cheek. Her thoughts were muddled. But she knew one thing.

She was useless here. Useless, for all her knowledge. Sometimes she wanted to go back to the wars. Where she had some use. But she couldnt. She knew that. She couldnt be a [Doctor] on the battlefield.

Because in war, it seemed that all a [Doctor] could do was make things worse.

The next day Geneva woke up without a hangover. In fact, she felt fresh, goodand had a bladder that seemed to encompass her entire body. She got up, peed, and heard Okasha whispering in her head.

Everything hurts

Shed taken care of the alcohol in Genevas system but couldnt do the same for herself. Geneva let Okasha rest and ate for both of them. Then she went upstairs and began to do the only work she could. And even that was deferred work.

How do the petri dishes look, Aiko?

The girl peered into the glass dishes that Geneva had bought. The cultures of primitive gelatin were growing molds. The [Nurse] had a mask on her face. Geneva stood back, watching.

Careful with the petri dish. Remember, my sterile field is down. The masks

Yes, Geneva. I know. The bacteria is growing well. But the antibioticssee?

Aiko handled the dishes carefully, taking care not to bring them too close to her face. The masks were Genevas design, but she couldnt be sure how well they protected Aiko. Geneva peered at them, taking care not to touch the petri dishes.

Her hands were sterile, thanks to her Skill. And while Geneva had learned she could temporarily disable the field that cleansed the area around her, her hands would kill the bacteria in a moment. She frowned at the samples shed made up.

She had mixed several of the [Healer]s poultices into new batches, trying to find a mix of antibiotic agents to replace penicillin. So far the results were promisingbut hardly as good as penicillin itself.

Not bad. But not good either. Look at how the bacterias resisting the samples. We have two strains#4 and #6 that look like theyre the best. Well try them against other cultures. Lets get a mouth swab. From someone else. Daly, maybe.

Yes, Geneva.

Coming up with an antibiotic was one of the achievements Geneva was determined to hand the United Nations company. It was essential. Preventing diseases might not earn much money for the companyhealing potions really did kill off a lot of people with bad illnesses if used carelessly on thembut it was vital nonetheless. Shed trade her left leg for penicillin. Hell, both legs. This world needed it. She needed it. Without that, Genevas skills outside of a battlefield were practically zero. Infections were the one thing she could cure, but this

Geneva was laboring over another antibiotic test case with Aiko when someone pounded on the door. Daly thrust open the door, stopped as Geneva shouted at him, and backed up.

Sorry! But I thought you should knowwe just got word that the Gravetenders Fist company is marching towards us!

Both Aiko and Geneva looked up. Genevas heard skipped a beat.

Did they say if they had injured?

No word on that. But they were doing a patrol along contested territory. Im going to say hi to them! Meet me there!

Daly raced out of the room. Aiko looked at Geneva. She nodded.

Pack up. Seal all the containers. Carefully. Then well head out.

She straightened. A company had injured usually, even if they were on peaceful duties. Accidents happened. Not that she wanted it. And healing potionsbut there was a chance. She should hurry. Geneva looked around for her medical kit. Okasha, who was still recovering from her hangover, whispered in her ears.

The companys back? Oh good. Maybe someone will be hurt so youll stop complaining.

Geneva ignored that. But a part of her, a cynical, dark part, hoped Okasha was right.

The Gravetenders Fist company was camped outside of Talenqual. Naturally a mercenary company couldnt all enter a city. That was practically an invasion. And in fact, it was only because Gravetenders Fist had a reputation for honesty that they were allowed near the city at all. That, and the fact that the reigning company who controlled the city, the Featherfolk Brigade, outnumbered them substantially.

Gravetenders Fist was still a small company. But they were gaining respect. Not only did they have an experienced leader, Quallet Marshand, but every soldier was armed with a crossbow, which they usually fired before switching to other weapons. It was an interesting tactic, and refilling quarrels and selling crossbows had earned the United Nations company a tidy profit.

And Quallets company had strong ties to the United Nations company. Even if one wasnt under control of the other and neither company owed the other anything, they had an agreement to support each other where possible. But none of that was really why Daly hurried towards the camp. He only stopped when he saw a distinctive Lizardgirl walking towards Talenqual with a slight catch to her stride.

Quexa looked a bit older than Daly remembered from his first encounter with her. But she was no less cheerful, and by now her peg leg barely slowed her.

Daly! I knew wed see you! I told Quallet we had to stop here, and he agreed! How are you? You look good! Are the Bushrangers doing well?

Quexa. Its good to see you.

The two stopped as they met just outside of Talenqual. Daly looked at Quexa, and then noticed she had company. Quallet, a Lizardman, and two officers that Daly vaguely recognized were accompanying the [Mercenary Captain] along with Quexa. She was his second-in-command. Quallet nodded at Daly as the Australian turned to greet him.

Quallet. Hows business?

Good. Were off-duty. We finished a patrolling job. Decided to stop by here.

I heard. Did you see any fighting?

Quallet shook his head.

Mostly quiet guard duty. But we did run into a [Necromancer]-led company on our route back this way. Brief battlewe both agreed to a ceasefire after we shot two volleys at him. Nearly broke his magic barrier.

Daly smiled.

Good to hear. Hey, I know Paige and Geneva are headed this way. I justcame along first.

Quallet nodded. He glanced at Quexa then cleared this throat.

Well head into the city. Weve got business there. Quexa, find me later. I need to talk to Geneva.

That got Dalys attention.

Anyone killed?

No. Ive got two bad infections among my troops for Miss Geneva to look at. Human.

He walked past Daly. Quexa fidgeted. The other officers followed Quallet, but the Lizardman stopped. He held out a claw.

Hey, youre the Human that Quexa had sex with! Hi! Im Zalel!

Daly choked. He hesitated, looked at Quexa who was blushing with embarrassment, and held out a hand and the Lizardman shook it energetically after a moment.

Uh, nice to meet you.

Great to meet you too! Id love to chat, but old Qualletll get mad. Quexa, Ill catch you later! Hey, wait up!

Zalel followed the others. Quexa stared daggers at his back until he was gone and then turned hurriedly to Daly.

I didnt have sex with him. Hes just an old friend. Just so you know.

I didnt ask.

Daly instinctively replied. Part of him wanted to say it was fine whatever Quexa did, but that would be a lie. He hesitated.

So, howre you doing?

Good! Ive been practicing new spells. Marching with the companyit was pretty dull, but hey, the jobs a job, right? And the companys growing. Its good to see you.

Quexa blurted that last bit out. Daly smiled.

Look at us, standing around. Say, want to go for a walk in the city? We can talk on the way.

Sure! Im just dying for a nali-stick by the way.

Itll be our first stop. My treat.

Oh, really? Youre so nice.

Well, maybe you can do me a favor in return.

Quexa gave Daly a sharp look and he elaborated.

Were looking for someone who can teach us [Repair]. Know any [Mages] who might be willing to do it for cheap?

Oh. Sure! I know a few names. What, are the ones in this city giving you a hard time with your flashy-things? Leave it to me! But tell mehowve you been? What have the Bushrangers been doing? Lets find a cool place to sit and you can tell me about it. Over a few nali-sticks. And some juice?

Id love that. Youve got the time, right?

The Lizardgirl smiled.

Quallet wont mind. Come on!

She pulled Daly forwards. He followed her, and saw Quexa turn her head back and paused for a second.

Im not having sex with you afterwards, though. Just throwing that out there. Well, not just for a nali-stick

For the second time in as many minutes, Daly nearly inhaled his tongue. He stopped, sighed. And then he laughed.

I didnt want to interrupt you. But both of them have it bad and they were whining to me the entire way here. They insisted I get you right away.

Quallet looked as if he were always in a bad mood. But Geneva knew him well enough to know he was genuinely concerned for the two Human men he wanted her to see. For her part, she was fully equipped. Not that her patients needed surgerythey had infections. Bad ones, but Quallet had spared her the details.

Aiko was following Geneva, carrying some of their gear. Geneva paused in front of the tent where her first patient was waiting.

Whered they get the infections? Battle?

I wish. They got it at the last town we stopped at.

Geneva frowned, perplexed.

From what? Cuts? Something they ate? A bug?

The [Mercenary] looked embarrassed. He shifted from foot to foot, a rare sign of discomfort.

No. Ah, from a brothel.

Oh. So the infections

I can tell them you dont need to see them if

No, its fine. I just need to be sure. It is on their genitals?

Quallet nodded. He flushed a bit. Geneva was calm. She looked at Aiko. The [Nurse] looked distinctly embarrassed. Geneva was a [Doctor] and to her, private parts were all the same when someone was on the table. But Aiko was hesitant.

You can let me do the diagnosis. Ill only call you in if I need help.

The Japanese young woman shook her head vigorously.

No! Im your assistant. So I will go with you! Its just

She flushed again. Quallet looked at the both of them.

I dont think embarrassments going to be the worst of it. I took a look and

He shook his head.

its bad. The worst case of it Ive seen.

Does it have a name?

Geneva frowned. Quallet shrugged.

Its one of the new ones. I think they call it Yellow Rivers. But I didnt ask too many questions. Ive kept them isolated like you said I should do, but I wasnt about to leave them.

No. You did the right thing. Ill handle it from here. If theres anything I can dothey know I cant work miracles, right?

Quallet nodded. But the look he gave her told Geneva that the story of the Last Light was still widely told in his company. She shook her head and took a breath. Not a surgery. But she was still a [Doctor].

Alright, Aiko. Excuse me

She pushed open the tent flap. The man sitting on a cot and clutching at his groin looked up. His eyes widened as she saw Geneva and Aiko with a mask on. His eyes went to Quallet, filling with hope.

Is she?

The man nodded. The mercenary practically scrambled to his feet. Geneva held up a hand, wishing her reputation didnt precede her. Now the fear was in her. What if she couldnt help him? No, she had to see first. She was ready.

Please. Im just a [Doctor]. I cant work miracles. Im told you have aninfection. May I see it?

Uhshow you? Here?

It was funny. For all she was a [Doctor], and he had clearly been hoping to see her, the man was obviously unprepared to drop his pants in front of two young women. But Geneva was used to reticent patients. She had the man lie back, and pull his trousers down slowly. Aiko hid behind Geneva, peeking from behind her.

She neednt have worried. The instant the mans trousers and then underwear were off, embarrassment was the last thing that was in the mind of the two girls. Geneva saw the yellow-stained, wet underwear peel away. She saw a flash of paler skin. And then red and yellow and

Ah.

Aikos eyes went wide. She covered her eyesthen her noseand then dry heaved. Geneva mastered the impulse as the smell hit herand then her nose went dead.

Thank you Okasha.

But there was no way to turn off her eyes. Geneva stared down at the mans groin, which was saturated with the worst case ofYellow Rivers was a good name for it. The Human man looked up at Geneva, eyes pleading, full of pain. He was a man. Male, and proportioned as any man from Earth would be. But the rash andit was hard to tell at first.

Geneva had seen a lot of horrific sights in medical school. But, she had to admit, even her stomach wanted to eject itself. Aiko was still gagging. Not just because of the sight. Because of the smell and the way the infection dripped.

But Geneva was a [Doctor]. And after a moment she took to assess the situation and control herself, she got to work.

This is clearly a problem. You used a healing potion on it, didnt you?

Yes. I thought it was a sore, but after I used itit hurt so much. Please, can you fix it? Id lose it. If it meant all this went away, even cutting it right off would be

The man whimpered. He was in a world of suffering. And that, more than anything, gave Geneva the ability to touch the inflicted areas, clearing pus away, getting a good look at the problem and telling Aiko to hand her the antibiotic treatments shed worked up. That, and a strong pair of gloves.

The first patient took thirty minutes to tend to, and Geneva gave him a list of instructions and promised to be back the next day. His infection wouldnt resolve itself overnight, no matter what he might have hoped, but she could see that her visit had given him some hope of surviving. The second patient Geneva saw was a little betterbut only just.

The same symptoms, the same illness and vector. It definitely came from your brothel.

And will it spread?

Quallet was waiting for Geneva and Aiko after they finished the second patient. Geneva scrubbed her hands in two buckets of soapy water, never mind the fact that her hands were sterile and shed worn gloves. There were some things you just needed to wash up for.

Not if they keep out of contact of the others. And obviously I should say this: no sexual intercourse.

Wont be a problem. You couldnt pay anyone in the company to touch those two. Man, woman, Lizardfolk, Dullahan, CentaurI dont even think the Selphids would want a body like that.

Definitely not.

Quallet nodded back towards the tent.

Will they survive?

Its down to how well my treatment works. And how clean they can keep the injury. They wont be marching with you any time soon. They need rest, and the infections cant be contained and agitated by their clothing.

The [Captain] grimaced.

So, what? Theyll be lying buck-naked with that out for

Not in the open. There are bugs. Ive bandaged the infections and theyre not to agitate them. But yes. Well need two medical tents. And Ill be back.

Quallet gnawed on his lip, but he acceded without much fight.

As you wish. But the cost

It wont be much for the treatments. Dont worry about it.

Nonsense. Ill cover it. And Ill take it out of their hides once theyre better.

Quallet shook his head and growled. Geneva looked at him. He was a good man, for all he acted aloof sometimes. She sighed, wiped her hands on a towel, and stood up.

I hope I can make a difference. But seeing thattheres something I need to do. Aiko, were headed back for the headquarters.

Ill go with you. I need to talk to Paige about more crossbows anyways.

Geneva nodded. She, Quallet, and Aiko who wasnt feeling hungry or eating ever again, walked slowly back to the city. They didnt make much conversation. Quallet and Geneva lived in different worlds. But somehow, they understood each other. They each had their way of living.

Geneva? How are the patients? I heard there were some people with bad infections.

Oh yes. Quallet can fill you in. But Ive just had a thought. Actually, I could use your help. I need to make something.

Really?

Paige perked up. Geneva nodded. She led them upstairs and borrowed some parchment. She began sketching her design. It was simple, really. It took Aiko a few seconds to figure out what it was. Paige got it in a moment.

Oh come on. Really?

You think its not necessary? Because believe me, after what I just saw? We need them.

Oh, the infections were down there? Oh, gross

Geneva ignored the comment. She kept sketching, noting different materials down. Okasha raised Genevas hand and pointed at the image.

Whats that?

A tool that will stop more infections. But we dont have the right materials. Paige, theres obviously no rubber available to us, but I think linen might work. Can you get me some?

The Australian girl hesitated.

I can get you linenbut really? Sorry, I know its silly, but this? Theres potions

Geneva interrupted her brusquely.

And this is a different issue. Get me the linen. I need it to be waterproof, and come up with a treatment for it. Something that wont harm internal organs, but which might neutralize anything. Aiko? Wheres the medicine kit?

The two girls went to get what Geneva wanted. Meanwhile, the [Doctor] tried to wrap her mind around the problem. Theyd need it to be protective, but not cumbersome. It could not come loose. How would you hold it on? And obviously it would have to be tailored. Dullahans were like Humans, but there were different sizes. And Centaurs and Lizardfolk

Geneva stared down at what she had designed. The simplest of tools from her world. Something so basic she hadnt thought of it. Well, she had when shed heard of some of the Earthworlders having sex, but when she heard about morning-after potions, she hadnt looked into it. But after seeing that viral infection, Geneva was sure it was necessary.

I dont get it. But then again, this really isnt a Selphid problem, is it?

Okasha stared down at the blueprints. Geneva ignored that. The Selphid might understand bodies, but she didnt understand germ theory.

This will save lives, Okasha.

I guess? But will it save Selphids from our problem?

Geneva looked up.

Not in this way. But the problems are related. Ive thought a lot about the symptoms youve described to me. Obviously I need to see the patients first, but if Im right, isolating an antibiotic or even taking measures like this might

The door crashed open. For the second time this day Geneva spun. She thought it was Paige, or Aiko being loud. But it wasnt. It was Daly. He was panting.

Geneva! Get your surgical kit!

Genevas pulse spiked. The tone of Dalys voice, his posture, it all told her one thing. And then she felt a jolt of fear.

Is it Quexa?

Hed been on a date with her. But Daly was shaking his head. He pointed to the hallway where Siri was shouting at the other Bushrangers.

I just got a [Message]. At the Adventurers Guild! Its the groups of adventures who went to the dungeon!

Geneva just stared at him blankly. She had no idea about the dungeon that had just been found. Daly tried to explain, tripping over his words as he beckoned at her.

The Rustless Guard, Salamander Swimmers, the Fivefold Verminslayersall the adventurer teams who got to the dungeon are retreating. They broke through into an old tomb and unleashed a bunch of monsters!

Monsters. Geneva whirled and looked for her surgical tools. She rushed out the door after Daly, shouting for Aiko and then giving up and running after him. He was shouting at the Bushrangers to assemble. But they were far from the dungeon! Still, Geneva ran after him.

What kind of monsters? Spear Spiders? Face-Eater Moths?

Shed treated both injuries. They were horrific to deal with, potions or not. But Daly just looked back, his face grim.

Worse. Snakes.

Captain Eldima looked up and saw death. It flowed from the dungeon, dozens of sinuous bodies. She turned and shouted.

Retreat!

Around her adventurers were running. The Dullahan turned and ran, trying to carry both her tower shield and mace. But she was so slow. Her new iron armor dragged at her. And she knew the enemy was closing on her. So she turned. It wasnt heroism that prompted her, just the knowledge that she couldnt escape. She looked back and saw them.

Snakes. Or rather, serpents. Not pythons or the other snakes of the jungle. As dangerous as they were, these snakes were far, far worse. They were huge.

Giant snakes. That was all. But even the smallest was as wide as Eldima. And the largest? It rose and struck like lightning. An adventurer screamedthe fangs sank into the Lizardgirls back and she jerked twice before the jaws crunched down. And then the snake swallowed her whole.

Effortlessly.

That was what the dungeon had held. No treasure. Even after all the excavation of the tunnels, all the adventurers had found was already-looted rooms. And then the snakes. Theyd been resting in the dungeon, fat, gorged on the prey that wandered by the entrance. Now they had a meal.

Rustless Guard, stand and fight!

Eldima cried out. Her Dullahans turned and formed a wall of shields. The first snake slithered towards them. It regarded the metal-clad Dullahans and hesitated. But it could smell their heartbeats. So it wavered, and then struck.

The impact threw Eldima and three of the Dullahans back a step. But theyd blocked the snake. It recoiled, hissing, and one of Eldimas [Warriors] charged, swinging an axe.

No! Kiltem! Get

Too late. The snake lunged. But not with its mouth. Kiltems charge was stopped as the serpent rammed him with its body, sending him to the ground. Quick as a flash, it was on him. He screamed as it bit at his body, rending the iron and his flesh beneath.

Off him!

Eldima charged forwards and bashed the snake with her mace. It recoiled, but its scales were thick! It butted Eldima, knocking her back. She stumbledand another snake swung towards them.

Keep running!

No! Kiltems down!

Eldima shouted at the others. But they were wavering. The snakes had already taken out two adventuring groups in the dungeon. Eldima and the others had been battling them for an hour and a quarter, frantically trying to collapse tunnels in the dungeon, setting traps, anything to slow the serpents. But the hungry monsters had kept coming regardless.

And now? It was over. Eldima raised her shield, hoping to strike a blow at the serpent still trying to eat Kiltem. She had [Power Strike]. But it might not even damage the serpent. She swung desperately. She saw the snake coil and tried to bring up her shield

The impact knocked Eldimas head loose from her body. She hadnt secured it properly, and her head went flying. Eldima felt the air rushing past her head, and then screamed in pain as her head struck the ground. Desperately she rolled her eyes, but she was on her side. She could see her body, and tried to control it. The snake was puzzled by the missing head, but it wrapped itself around Eldima anyways and squeezed.

Pain. On the ground, Eldimas head screamed. Her body fought, but it was constricted, helpless. Her team tried to save her, but the second serpent was fighting them. And all Eldima could do was watch and feel her body dying.

It was every Dullahans worst nightmare. This was like how they executed their criminals. Eldimas eyes filled with tears. She struggled, cried out

Please!

And she saw a flash out of the corner of her eye. Movement. But not the fleeing adventurers. Movement in the other direction. A figure advancing, rather than fleeing from the dungeon. Eldima saw the figure raise something in its hand. A crossbow. And as she watched, he fired once.

The bolt shot from the wooden bow. It sped across the ground and hit the serpent crushing Eldima in the eye. The shot was perfectthe serpent recoiled, screaming, and let Eldima go. She saw her body fall to the ground. Sobbing, Eldima ordered her body to run towards her and snatch up her head. She placed her head on her body and turned, feeling her bent armor, her fractured bones. And then she saw him. Shed thought it was her imagination. But there he was.

Daly, the Captain of the Bushrangers, raised his crossbow. He pulled the drawstring back, loaded another quarrel, aimed, and fired. The second bolt struck the serpent menacing Eldimas team in the side of the head. It turned. The bolt had broken on its scales. But it was distracted. The Dullahans backed away, carrying their fallen comrade. And Daly pointed.

Bushrangers, advance!

Five figures strode past them. Each held a crossbow. Each raised it and fired. Five more bolts flew. One struck the serpent in its open mouth and it recoiled. But only for a second. Then it came on.

The other serpents had noticed the strange anomaly in their fleeing prey. They turned, locking onto the Bushrangers. The five reloaded, and then broke up as the snakes advanced, shifting their aim to individual snakes. They firedthe bolts struck scales. The snakes flinched, but then realized they werent hurt. So did the adventurers. One cried out.

Its not going through the scales, Daly!

Then aim for the eyes! Just keep them busy! Siri! Hit the lure!

On it!

One of the Humans had something in her hands. She hit something. A light blossomed on the device she held. Eldima, staggering towards the group, trying to shout at them to run, heard a loud sound. And then a deafening sound that went straight through her body and armor.

The thundering dubstep was cranked up past what the speakers should have allowed. It was so loud that Eldimas ears rang. She clamped her hands to her ears. But the effect on the sensitive snakes was even worse. They had no ears and they writhed in agony and retreated as the sound thundered. One of them lungedDawson raised his shield and went flying.

Fuck!

The Bushrangers had attracted all the attention of the snakes. They abandoned the fleeing adventurers and focused on the team. Anything to get the music to stop. But Siri used the speaker like a weapon, aiming it at the nearest serpents.

Pull back!

Eldima staggered towards Daly. He was shouting, waving his team back. But too slowly. They were going to be surrounded! And whenever this strange artifact ran out, theyd be dead.

No! A few more moments! Get in position! Stay with us!

Daly roared at his team and Eldima. She thought thats what he saidshe couldnt hear anything. The serpents were getting over their fear of the blasting music, though. Rage was propelling them forwards. Daly was pointing back. The Bushrangers ran backwards. The snakes followed.

They were going to die. Theyd responded to the [Message] spell in time, but the Bushrangers were an ambush group. They werent equipped to go up against giant serpents! Eldima despaired. And then she looked behind her and saw them.

A row of bodies. It stretched across the muddy ground. Hundreds of bodies. Centaurs pulling wagons. Lizardmen and Lizardwomen holding crossbows. Dullahans armed with pikes. Eldima froze. There was an entire company here! A huge one! What company had appeared? She knew that the Gravetenders Fist company was in the area. But this was too large to be just theirs.

Then she saw a Lizardgirl at the front of the ranks point at the serpents. The agitated monsters hadnt realized the danger they were in. But they got a clue as an orb of fire blasted from her claw and struck one in the face. It writhed in agony. And the army in front of them raised their crossbows.

Move!

Daly grabbed Eldima. His team was racing to the side. Out of the way. And before they were even in the clear, the first volley of crossbows fired.

Hundreds of bolts flew through the air. Behind them, Centaurs with longbows aimed and fired. More [Mages] threw fire and lightning and acid. The serpents weathered the bolts, took the spells. They charged forwards, armored, huge. But the assembled force didnt waver. The first rank of pikes swung up as more spells and arrows targeted the snakes eyes. And then one of the [Mages] threw a bolt of lightning that left only a crater where the largest serpents head should have been.

Dead gods.

Eldima whispered. She heard laughter above the ringing in her ears. She looked up and saw Daly, still grabbed hold of her, whooping and laughing as the serpents fell. Only one even reached the lines of warriors. The Dullahan looked up, at Daly, and her thoughts were wonder.

How did he do it?

That was all Eldima could ask. All the other adventurers could ask. Bewildered, they watched as the company of warriors and irregulars calmly butchered what remained of the serpents, hauling the valuable meat and scaly hides away towards the city. Eldima looked around.

How?

Her gaze was on Daly. He had led a group back into the dungeon, to look to survivors. Now he was tending to what wounded there were, with a small team. Eldimas ears were still ringing, but she saw Dullahans whod been fighting pass her by and managed to ask the question everyone wanted to know.

Who? The Human? He didnt call us here. And we arent one company. The two on the field are from Gravetenders Fist and the Featherfolk Brigade. You should recognize us.

The Dullahan looked affronted. Eldima instinctively bowed her head; she was wearing mangled iron armor and he wore steel.

I am terribly sorry. But if he did not call you allhow?

Why would so many respond to an adventurers [Message]? Normally theyd just lock down the city and leave the adventures to their fate. The Dullahan wearing steel frowned severely, but responded grudgingly at last.

It was the Captain of the Bushrangers who made the plea, but our company commander acceded to the request thanks to another member of his company. A[Negotiator] convinced us to engage in this fight, as it was clearly one we could win.

You?

And the others. He pulled every one he could grab out of the city. Adventurers, Runners. Sailors.

For a second the Dullahan looked almost admiring. He pointed at a figure who hadnt been part of the fighting.

Ken. He and Daly had organized the operation. And it was true. They hadnt bothered to invite just one company. Theyd gathered everyone they could find.

Giant serpents could kill one Silver-rank team. Or even a group. But a Gold-rank [Mage] who headed the Mages Guild in Talenqual? The Guildmaster of the Adventurers Guild? A [Captain] and his crew? Childs play. And they had come. For sport. For the nobility of the cause. For an easy battle and a share of the profits. Anyone could make the argument. But only Ken had done it.

Eldima stared. But then she noticed another figure passing by all of the wounded, rapidly going from figure to figure, and then the silent shapes. Checking them. And Eldimas eyes widened as someone whispered her name. She recalled a rumor and saw a legend in the flesh. And she looked at Daly and wondered what company he belonged to.

Wonder. Relief. Such were the emotions of the survivors. But Geneva was justfrustrated. She roamed the battlefield, ignoring the dead serpents who were being butchered. The smell, the soundsall of it was reminiscent of a warzone between companies. But in this case

Any wounded? Any injured?

Geneva called out for the eighth time. But she heard no one. No cries of pain. No shouts for a [Healer] or a potion. What adventurers had died were dead. And the others?

Im fine. A healing potion took care of my wounds. And you splinted my bones. I will be fine. I am in your debt, [Doctor].

The Dullahan named Kiltem reassured Geneva when she went to check on him. He was one of the few people shed treated and even then, the adventurers had known what to do. He would need to be carried and heal for at least a week, but with potions his broken bones and body would mend quickly.

There was nothing for her to do. Again. Geneva looked around the battlefield, at Daly who was congratulating and thanking some of the people theyd called upon with Ken, at the Bushrangers testing their crossbows on a serpent and shaking their headsat the departing adventurers, [Warriors], and [Mages].

Useless. Shed come out here, rushed out here thinking to help evacuate the wounded. To save lives. But this hadnt been her battle. It had been a triumph for the United Nations companythanks to Ken and Daly. Thanks to diplomacy, words. Goodwill.

Geneva loved it. Hated it. She turned and walked over to Daly.

Geneva? Everyone well?

Theyre all fine. The deadI cant do much for them.

Daly was high on relief and victory. But he paused as he saw Genevas face. He reached out and grabbed her shoulder gently.

Its good they didnt need help, eh?

She looked up and met his eyes. Guiltily, Geneva realized he was right.

Thats true. Im sorry.

Hey. Everyone knows you want to help. And you do.

How?

He shrugged.

Just by being here. Look.

He pointed. And Geneva turned. She felt the eyes on her at last. Soldiers from Quallets company. The Featherfolk Brigades warriors. Even adventurers and sailors. Looking at her.

They know youll be there when they need it. Thats enough.

Dalys voice was quiet. Geneva looked back at him. He smiled at her.

Sometimes a [Doctor]s work is just in the head. Just making people feel safe. Right?

Geneva hesitated. And then her lips quirked. It wasnt quite a smile. But it was close enough.

No wonder Quexa likes him.

Okasha remarked softly. For once, Geneva couldnt disagree. She looked at Daly.

You did a good job.

He grinned, a look of delight for the compliment. Then he gave her a slight bow.

Wish it were always that easy. But then, howd we split the coin? Lousy job, this. Didnt earn a copper penny, what with that lot hogging everything.

Geneva chuckled. Daly nodded towards the Centaurs whod raced a lot of the people on foot here.

That lotll be heading back soon. Want to hitch a ride?

I think so. Let me at least fuss over the Dullahans with broken bones.

After Geneva had loaded the Dullahans onto the smoothest wagon and ensured they were moving comfortably at a slow pace, she and Daly took another ride home. The two Centaurs were chatting the entire way back.

Fantastic! I dont know how you got those grouches from the Mages Guild to do it, but that was incredible! And we saved those adventurers.

And we get paid, right?

Well guarantee it ourselves, even if others claim all the serpent hides and meat.

Ken reassured the Centaurs. Pihava tossed her head like a horse, her long hair doing the same work as a mane.

Thats quite generous! Your company pulled out all the stops. Why? Do you know the teams that were in the dungeon?

Ken and Daly exchanged a glance. They were riding in the front. Daly answered for them.

Nah, just the one. Its not that. Its justthey needed help, right? And you dont abandon your mates when theyre in trouble.

But theyre hardly your mates.

Not yet. But I think we could become friends. And hey, thats what our company does best. Right Ken?

He nudged the Japanese [Negotiator]. They laughed. Geneva listened to the laughter. And she feltbetter. Peaceful. Daly was right. It was a blessing not to be needed.

The Centaurs wagon pulled into Talenqual with the others, pausing as the sudden influx of traffic caused a small jam. But they were content to wait, and Ken and Daly called out towards the others getting back to their jobs and lives, shouting congratulations, thanks. And Geneva was sure their company would be a name on every lip tonight.

Alright! Back to the headquarters! I dont care what anyone saysIm buying some alcohol and were partying it up!

Daly exclaimed to the cheers of his team. He was leading the way, talking about the battlemainly about the high-level spells and Skills theyd seen. Geneva was following them, listening calmly, not feeling the painful lurching of impatience in her stomach. It was so pleasant, she didnt notice the Bushrangers stop until she nearly ran into Kens back.

Whats the matter?

Someone was standing in front of the twin apartments. Not one of the United Nations company. A stranger. Geneva didnt recognize him. Nor did she know what she was looking at for a second. A catman? No. A Beastkin, from the Cat Tribe.

His fur was silky. His body sinuous. He entranced the eye, as if hed stepped out of an Egyptian hieroglyph. But then Geneva saw his lowered ears. The look on his all-too understandable face.

Rital?

Daly paused uncertainly as he spotted the Cat-man. Rital turned. He had been standing in front of the United Nations headquarters, as if lost. He focused on Daly.

Daly.

There was something wrong. The elation of the Bushrangers faded. Daly looked at Ken.

Hey, mate. Whats the matter?

Because something was clearly wrong. Ritals mouth opened and closed. The impish, fun-loving look on his face was gone. A look of desperation was there. He stared at Daly.

Its Hasty. Hastel.

Your wife?

Daly didnt know if they were married. Rital shook his head, but then he went on.

Shes giving birth.

Thatsthats great. Right?

Rital didnt respond. His eyes were wide, unblinking. He half-turned his head, staring down the street.

Shesits notshes not doingthe [Midwife] is with her. A lot of them, actually. But they say itstheyve been going for two hours and itsits bad. Its very bad.

The obvious question was, how bad? But somehow Daly couldnt ask. He saw it on Ritals face. The Cat-man looked back at him.

I heardtheres nothing I can do. No potions or magic. But I heardyour company has a [Doctor], right? Thats like a [Healer]? They cant do anything. So I thought

Daly was frozen. He didnt know what to do. What to say. He knew little about childbirth. And the other members of the Bushrangers were frozen too. There was nothing they could do.

But behind them, a young woman moved. She moved when no one else could. That was the function of a [Doctor]. Geneva pushed past Daly.

Where is she?

Rital stared blankly at Geneva, and then his eyes focused on her. With desperate hope. Fear and panic and a host of other terrible emotions ran through him. He reached out as if to touch Geneva, as if to see if she was real.

Its bad. Really bad. Are you the one they call the Last Light? Can you save her? Please?

Geneva looked into Ritals eyes. Daly saw her hesitate. A childbirth. It wasnt the kind of surgery she was trained for, he knew. And she didnt lie. Geneva didnt, to her patients or her friends. But she reached out, and grabbed Ritals hand. And her grip was fierce enough to wake him up a bit. Geneva looked in his eyes.

Take me to her. And Ill do my best.

He stared at her. And then he turned and ran. Geneva whirled. She shouted a name. For Aiko. And then she was running. And even Daly couldnt keep up.

Miss Hastel was in her apartments. Lying on her side. A rug had been placed beneath hernot an expensive one, but a comfortable, well-used one. For the birth. And she was surrounded.

Two Centaurs, both female, a female Lizardfolk, and a female Dullahan were crowded around Hastel. All of them were [Midwives], a specialist type of [Healer]. The best in the city. But for all the expertise in the room, it was deathly quiet.

Miss Hastels face was pale. She was making a faint, animals noise. Her breathing was heavy. Sweat was drenching her body and the carpet. And protruding from her lower half, hanging from her abdomen were two legs.

Geneva took in the scene in a moment as she burst into the apartment. She saw the [Midwives] turn in shock and anger. Their faces were pale. Hands bloody. Miss Hastel was bleeding too. But it wasnt serious.

By her side, Rital was babbling. Trying to explain and plead at the same time. Geneva looked at him and made a call.

Leave. Theres nothing you can do. Ill save her if I can. Guard the door. Let Aiko and whoever I need through.

Give him a task. One that he could do and feel like he was helping. Rital jerked. But Geneva wasnt focusing on him. Next. The [Midwife] in charge was a Centaur. Geneva strode up to her.

Whats going on?

Who are you? This is a very dangerous

Im a [Doctor]. I was told there was a problem. What is it?

The Centaur met her eyes. She was older than the others, in her sixties or so Geneva would have said. She wavered, and then spoke quickly. Geneva listened, hearing Miss Hastel making incoherent sounds. One of the [Midwives] trying to comfort her. The room was tense, like a wake. If any of the Balerosians could have prayed, they would have.

And the sound beneath it all, beneath the pounding of Genevas heart, was the sound of her fear. The sheer terror only her will kept at bay.

Shed asked for this. Shed wanted the call. Begged for it in her mind. But that was the thing. When the call came, when the emergency happened, you were never quite ready for it.

Childbirth. Ken had once observed that Centaurs treated females differently than men. They didnt execute female prisoners. And pregnant mothers were treated carefully regardless of the cause.

There was culture behind that reason. Culture and biology. Because Centaurs had tricky births.

Horses could have complicated births. So could Humans. But whatever their problems, Centaurs were worse because they combined both horse legs and Human head and hands together. Still, a bodys natural functions usually made the process of birth go correctly.

But not always. And it was in those complications where every expecting mothers nightmares lurked. And a nightmare had occurred. The foal, the baby Centaur that Miss Hastel was delivering had come out the wrong direction. The [Midwives] hadnt known until theyd seen the angle of the legs, but theyd guessed. A sinking feeling not yet given voice. That quiet terror, building each second with certainty.

The legs are tangled up with the birthing cord. It cant come out.

It must.

If it does

That was all. The cord was tangled. The legs at the wrong angle. There was no way to correct it. The [Midwives] could have reversed the foal if it was in another position, but the foal was coming out as a dog sat. Part of it would come out, but the rest would be unable to be born. And the umbilical cord was tangled.

It was the death sentence for Centaurs. The [Midwives] had tried their best to remedy the situation, but there was only so much they could do. Walking, getting up and movingtheyd made Hastel do all of that, and the [Midwife] the Centaur landlady had hired was good. Shed helped with the pain, tried to correct the birth when shed sensed it going wrongbut there was a limit to her Skills. To her experience, even.

Right now she was stopping the birth with a Skill. But Miss Hastel was groaning and her strengthand the foalswas fading fast. Both might die. The foal certainly would.

And here was Geneva. She understood nothing of foaling. She had not been raised on a farm. But the situation reminded her of a situation shed studied in medical school.

Breech birth. The baby was at risk if a vaginal birth occurred. In this case, the birth would be fatal. So there was only one option Geneva could think of. But the knowledge terrified her.

How long had it taken to hear the [Midwife]s hushed explanation, put together the obvious on her head? Geneva spun. She rushed to the door. Rital was there. He turned, hair on end, claws out. Daly was panting outside. He looked up. Geneva snapped at him.

Get me Aiko. Now. And I need more hands. Steady ones. Paige. Siri.

At the very least. She needed steady hands. And she needed potions. Geneva snapped and Daly ran. She walked back inside, head light.

A surgeon knew how to do a Caesarian Section. But Geneva would have gotten practice. She would have observedand this was a Centaur. The biology could beno, it was completely different. And Miss Hastel was already at the limits of her strength. Geneva would be fighting the contractions, racing against time.

If she cut the baby

A thousand thoughts. Okasha was panicking in Genevas head. But the [Doctor] had an icy well in her. Something cold reached up and took control of her hands. Because if they shook, her patient died.

The [Midwife] was blocking Genevas way as she got ready. Shed seen the scalpel and feared the worst. The other [Midwives] were staring in horror at Geneva as she checked the sharpness of her blades. The Centaur blocked her, ready to do violence to prevent what might be a horror far worse. Geneva looked up at her.

I can save her.

She met the older Centaurs eyes. And she saw the hopelessness, the fear and pain. And Geneva showed the [Midwife] what was in her eyes. In her very soul. The Centauress hesitated. And then she stood aside.

And Geneva prayed. And then she began her work, and she prayed no longer. Because the child, Miss Hastel, were in no gods hands, dead or alive.

They were in hers.

Cut. Slowly. So gingerly that Geneva could see the layers of cells peeling back. But oh, even more carefully. Look. Wait. Measure and cut again.

But too slow and it was too late. The [Midwife] was holding each contraction back with all her might. They all were. And hands were holding Hastel. Female hands. She had passed beyond the point of conscious thought. She was more animal than person, lying on the carpet. But she was awake. She couldnt be put to sleep. There was no way. No time.

Skin was one thing. It could be stitched once more. Healed. But blood was another. A healing potion might do terrible, terrible things if it acted on the contracting birth canal. And it would close the damage Geneva needed to do. So Geneva had made up a transfusion. She had thanked every star in the sky that the compatibility test had revealed Miss Hastel could accept blood from most of the Centaurs outside.

They had given blood. The tube was crude. The blood poured into Miss Hastels veins. A horror show that Paige had to keep steady, keep feeding blood as Geneva measured Hastels blood loss and intake. And all the while, she cut. Tried to stem the bleeding. But inside

The baby was there. Tangled up, half-borne. Blood soaked the carpet. One of the [Midwives] began to panic and was ejected. Another fainted. Geneva paid no attention so long as they were out of the room.

A tangled umbilical cord. A knot, like a shoe lace. But oh, be careful. Be so careful. She untangled the foal. Hands wet with blood. If her hands werent sterile, this too would have been wrong. But she had Skills. And skill.

Swifter. Too much blood. More blood from outside. The bucketclean. Gods, if there were rust

Focusing. The Centaur made a sound, tried to move. The Human girls had to hold her down with all their might. And the [Midwives] were doing the same. Geneva extracted the foal. It was limp. It was not breathing. But the umbilical cord was cut. The Centauress said to wait. Geneva couldnt.

The foal in a safe place prepared for it. The Centauressblood. See past the blood. Get rid of it. Aikos steady hands. Okasha made each movement of Genevas as precise as a laser.

See the damage. Begin to repair it. So many placesa dropper. Drops of healing potion as she stitched. Healing the wound, but not wholesale. More blood. Stitch. Quick, even, quick, even

Something like an actual body reappearing. More healing potion. Watching bloody tears turn to scar, and then heal. Together. Together. Checkremove the thread. Pulse? Breathing? A staring eye. The shock of a lifetime. But no words. Just waiting. She knows youre helping.

Stitch. Pray. Stitch. And thena cry. Baby horsesfoalsdidnt breathe for a few seconds. But it took a Centaur child until they could raise their heads, a few minutesbefore they would cry.

The sound made Genevas hands tremble for a moment. But she stilled herself. She sealed the rest of Miss Hastel. Healed her. And then she sat back.

Then she could shake. Then she could hear. Breathe, inhale the iron scent in the room. Hear the voices outside, see the relief in the others.

Siri, who had faced down a serpent with a crossbow and a dagger, sat on the ground, white-faced, unable to move for a second. Kirana, whod held the Centauress down as she thrashed, was pale as ice. But then someone breathed. A girl from Earth whispered a prayer. And then the others realized it was done.

Geneva moved backwards. Her tools were bloody. They didnt belong near the healed Miss Hastel any longer. The Centauress was covering her face with one arm. Tears in her eyes. She was alive. And then the foal cried again, a true wail. And the people outside went silent.

Listening.

Geneva leaned against a wall in Miss Hastels lovely home, her hands dripping blood onto the wallpaper. She didnt even notice. The sweat Aiko had wiped away time and time again dripped down her face. She only raised her head when she heard and saw a Centaur approaching.

The old [Midwife] had regained some of the color in her face. More than the others in the room. She was tough. And she knelt to speak with Geneva. And the look in her eyes was an echo of the look Geneva had seen.

My name is Caleffe Umbalt. I am honored, Miss Scala. Truly.

Geneva coughed. Her throat was dry. Someone handed her a water flask. She drank, coughed, nearly choked. Caleffe waited for her to speak.

Iwas just doing my job.

Then it is a job no one else could do. You saved her when I thought no one else could. I have heard of the Last Light. But I did not give the stories credence. Until now.

Im not her. Im just a person. I cant work miracles.

So you say.

That was all Caleffe said. She looked over her shoulder.

What was that? I have heard ofcuttings been done. I thought you were going to kill the child. Remove itthat was how a Centauress was saved once. But never have I heard of someone cutting into her belly and removingI would trust no one with that task. Not even the highest-level [Butcher] or [Blademaster].

Never them. Im a [Doctor]. That was Caesarian Section. The first Ive ever done. Its something used if a birth cant be done traditionally. Only a [Doctor] can do it.

I see. Then fate truly was kind.

My child?

Genevas head turned. Miss Hastels head was raised. She was looking around. And Geneva saw a limp, wet shape. Clearly unhappy with being alive, struggling to get up. The [Midwives] rushed over. Caleffe stayed put.

I can only thank you. From the bottom of my heart. Geneva Scala, you have saved their lives.

She looked at Miss Hastel and the child. Geneva shook her head.

It was an emergency. I did what I could. But I dont want to ever do that again.

A blind Caesarian section on another species without anesthesia or assistants orGeneva wondered if something this nightmarish had ever happened. No, surely there had been worse cases. She heard a strangled laugh to her left.

Paige was sitting on the floor. Her legs had given way after shed put the blood transfusion equipment down. She looked at Geneva, face pale, but laughing.

Whats so funny?

The Australian girl shook her head.

Did you hear what you said, Geneva? Only a [Doctor] can do it.

Genevas slow mind took a moment to react. She could hear Okasha whispering in her head.

Thank goodness, thank goodness. A child!

And then Genevas brain processed what Paige was saying.

Oh. Oh.

Caleffe nodded. She looked again at Miss Hastel.

I know of many women who would prefer to know there was another way, a backup. Especially for Centaurs. The fear of it

No scarring or stretching, right?

Paige giggled, a touch hysterically with relief. Caleffe looked at her with great interest.

Really?

Caesarian sections should only be performed if necessary. There is still a risk, and the operation is traumatizing.

Geneva said that automatically. But her mind was racing. A potion could heal the trauma in moments. Miss Hastel was even able to stand, though the [Midwives] were urging her to rest, and Rital was trying to support hera somewhat futile endeavor. But she was standing, and she looked

Another cry made Genevas head turn. She nearly dropped her scalpel. The foal was standing. Heit was a he, Geneva had barely noticedwas a tiny thing. A baby and a horse, mixed into one. But there was something entirely Human about the way he struggled to his feet, instinctively going towards his mother, who couldnt be stopped from going to him.

Geneva stared. And in her head, the fear, concentration, intensity of her work, willpower, determination, all of it coalesced into a single moment. A kind of realization. A thought.

Shed saved dying men and women of all species, dragged them back to life and heard them thanking her. Shed saved lives on a bloody battlefield only to watch them die minutes later. Afterwards shed been as numb as relieved. The victory bittersweet. But this?

She looked down at the colt, already trying to stand. This was pure.

I guess I should have trained to be an obstetrician.

Geneva numbly spoke. It was the kind of stupid thing you said after an event like this. Caleffe looked confused. Paige grinned. And somehow, Geneva found herself sitting. Watching as a baby Centaur suckled for the first time. And then the door was opening, and she heard a cheer that made the baby start wailing, and people were staring at herand shed forgotten to wash her hands

At some point, Geneva slept. And it was a fine, good, deep sleep. The call had come. And shed been up to the task. That was all shed wanted.

That night, Talenqual celebrated. For what, you couldnt say. Not because no one knewbut because there were too many reasons. Because of the victory against the giant snakes? Because of Miss Hastels amazing birth that had defied all odds? Because of the Last Light? Because the legends were true?

You couldnt say. But the streets were abuzz and the United Nations apartments were filled with motion and life. Daly felt like he was caught up in a whirlpool. Every time he turned around there was something to drag his attention. Kirana showcasing her foods to a hungry street. Rital, coming to shake his hand and thank him again and again because Geneva was asleep. An adventurer doing the same for different reasons

Mister Daly?

Daly turned. A Dullahan with somewhat battered armor was standing in the street, head in her hands. She was chewing on a dahi kebab. She looked embarrassed and relieved and straight at Daly.

Eldima? I mean, Captain Eldima, right?

The leader of the Rustless Guard shook her head.

Eldima is suitable. After all, your company saved mine.

Ah, well, it wasnt just us. It was everyone

Only one company organized it. It was yours.

Daly didnt fight Eldima on the issue. He turned and looked down the street. The Dullahan joined him. People were partying with the Earthworlders, and someoneDawson probablyhad just begun playing some music, almost as loud as when theyd fought the serpents. The bastard had even started with Down Under.

You spent money for us. Hiring the Centaur Runners. Convincing the other companies and adventurers to help us. And it seems your company is giving out free food.

Daly winced. That perception was probably one reason why this street was getting flooded. But he could only shrug.

Thats the United Nations company for you, I guess. Were poor, but rich in friends. Which is, I dunno, better? Something like that.

He glanced sideways and saw Eldima smile slightly. Rare on a Dullahan.

It is a strange philosophy for a mercenary company to have.

Ah, well, were more than just mercs. We form alliances. Friends. We dont have enemies, really. This company wasnt meant to seize power. But to protect. Gather folks like us.

I see. It is strange. I would have laughed to hear that a while ago.

Why?

Because that is how all of the Great Companies first formed.

The Dullahan looked back at Daly. He hesitated. Eldima tilted her head, and then put it on her shoulders and fastened it. She took a deep breath, then looked at Daly.

I would like to join your company.

What?

Daly was caught off-guard. Eldima hesitated.

We owe you a debt. Besides which, my team isnot doing so well. We are slightly in debt for our armor and it is hard to find work that pays enough. Reaching bounties on time, the cost of healing potions

Were not so hot ourselves. The Bushrangers arent famous, Eldima. We barely get by. And our headquarters

Daly gestured. Eldima nodded.

I understand. But we would be willing to collaborate. Work together. But I feelyour company is one that I can trust. One that it would be good to befriends with.

She looked at Daly, almost pleadingly. He hesitated. But then the music swelled, and all he could do was smile. He held out a hand.

Well then. I cant say for sure whatll happen next. But we can always use more friends.

And he saw a smile. And that was all you needed on a night like this. Daly laughed. And he looked up for a second, grinned at the sky, and then taught a Dullahan how to dance.

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