The Wandering Inn

Book 7: Chapter 28

Book 7: Chapter 28

[Spearmaster Level 36!]

[Skill Recall Weapon: Spear obtained!]

[Guardsman Level 17!]

[Skill Eyes In The Back obtained!]

The Drake opened his eyes as the sun hit his head. Sometimes the announcement came in the mornings. If he fell asleep and it didnt wake him up, it lingered in his mind. Like words seared onto the inside of his brain. He blinked a few times.

Then made a fist and punched it up in victory.

Ooh. Noice.

What was that?

Nothing. Well, actually

Relc rolled over and Ryoka blinked at him. She was there too of course. And while level-ups had never troubled her, the Drake was only happy to explain.

I leveled up. Twice, actually. In two classes.

Ohcongratulations.

Thanks. And uh

They stared at each other. Ryoka was in the same bed as Relc. Of course, he had known that. He hadnt drunk enough to forget last night either. A good thing, despite how his day had gone.

Sunlight was streaming through an unfamiliar window. Relc blinked around at the nice room. It wasnt his. It was, in fact, Ryokas. True to form, he hadnt woken up in his apartment. This room was better, anyways. The sun was rising and hed slept through his dawn routine for once.

Probably because hed been stabbed multiple times. And for other reasons. The Drake was explaining his new levelhe already felt like he had a vague sense of what was behind him. Just a wall, and the sunlight. Not like eyes butbetter than intuition.

Yeah, thats me. Im going to be even harder to jump. Nice Skillalthough Klbkch always had my back.

Right. You said.

Ryoka sat up. Relc stared at her. She blinked a few times. And blushed. A bit embarrassed by the stare more than anything else.

So uhnice room.

Yup. Erins giving it to me rent-free.

Both of them latched onto the trite conversation. But after a second of looking around, Relc decided it was a good topic.

Really nice. Good bed, more spacious than my apartmentdo you know how much she charges?

Ryoka paused as she looked around for clothes. She found her bag of holding. There was a skittering sound from outside the window.

Erask Lyonette. But ask Erin if you want a deal. Im sure shed give it to you cheap.

Yeah. YeahI might like living here. Yknow, if Erin has room. Id help out! Kick Rock Crabs and stuff. But itd be nice. You could swing a spear around in here.

Ryoka glanced around. Relc frowned. Instantly, he began to panic.

Wheres my spear?

I think your daughter has it.

Oh. Right. Right.

The Drake relaxed. Normally, he wasnt out of reach of his spear at any time. He thought about his other new Skill. Should he?

Nah. Itd probably try to come to him if he wasnt out of range. And you didnt want to get in between a recalling spear and the target. He lay back. Then sat up.

I should go. Really cool and all

Ryoka glanced at him. The Drake stared around vaguely for his clothes. But propriety demanded he soon exit. To his surpriseRyoka hadnt suggested it already.

Im good.

Oh? Really?

Mhm.

Cool, cool. I uhcan jump out the window

Or walk down the steps. Do you often do this?

Sometimes?

The Drake had run the gamut from every kind of morning after. Good, badthis was already shaping up to be a good one. Bad ones were where the angry lover hit you in the middle of your sleep.

The two looked at each other. Ryokawho had thought this was all a great idea yesterdaywas mostly perturbed by her brain. What did you say? She was out of practiceand she actually knew Relc. She was clearing her throatwhen the skittering grew louder.

Both heads turned. Ryoka heard something like a squirrelbut the fattest squirrel in the worldcreeping around the window outside her room. Then she heard a sniff. A growl.

Premonition was a terrible thing. Because it only told you what was going to happen, not how to stop it. Ryoka cursed. She turned to Relc.

I think

Like the furry face of wrath, a little Gnolls head popped into the window from the outside.

Ancestors!

Relc fell out of bed as Mrsha stared through the window. Her eyes locked on Ryokas, accusingly. The City Runner winced.

Mrsha

She raised her finger warningly. The Gnoll was not happy. Thunderclouds practically filled her face as she looked at Relc and Ryoka, who she both loved. Both of whom had done bad things. Like Pawn and Lyonette! Was that all adults did?

Mrsha, listen to me

Too late. The Gnoll stuck out her tongue. Thenshe disappeared.

Oh, good. That was Mrsha. I thought it was a monster for a second. Good thing I didnt have my spear.

Relc looked around. He was relaxedunashamedwhich Ryoka wasnt! Ashamed, that was! But he didnt seem to register the gravity of Mrshas wrath.

Ryoka eyed the empty window. She had another premonition.

I think we should split.

Aha! I was ready for that. Give me one second to find my belt

No, its just that Mrsha gets mad. I thinkshe might

A sound came from Ryokas left. She whirled.

and I was just likeyknow, deciding what we could put in the garden. I mean, we can put living things in here. We have fish. Sowhat about crabs?

Crabs live in the sea, Erin.

I know. But can we make a saltwater pond? Huh? Huh? Krshia says theyll make a huge pool in the city. So how deep does the [Garden of Sanctuary] run? Hey, Lyonette. Hand me a shovel.

Erin, you cant dig

Lyonette du Marquin paused as she reached for a shovel to hand Erin. The [Innkeeper] paused.

She was standing in her garden. Next to Lyonette, in the early morning. She was marking out a possible spot for creating a saltwater ponda terrible idea because it would leech salt into the soil. Ryoka could have told her that.

In fact, she could. Because the magic door to the inn was connected to her room. Someoneand that little someone was a white Gnoll sitting with arms folded and a vicious smile behind Lyonettehad opened the doorway into Ryokas room.

Hey, Ryoka. Do you know where my belt isoh.

Relc paused as he swung around. Erins features, which had been one of shocklocked onto his body. Relc was almost nude, but for his underpants. Which was a good thing. But the [Innkeeper], however oblivious, couldnt deny this. She stared at Ryoka. Ryoka stared at Mrsha.

Lyonette stared up, her cheeks red. Mrsha stuck her tongue out.

Ryoka? Relc? Why are you twowhat isoh mywhat is happening?

Erins scream ran through the entire inn. It almost made the person outside Ryokas door hesitate. But she pushed open the door anyways.

Dad? I brought your spear back. We didnt get Bearclaw, but we found Soot. Are you here? The little GnollMrshapointed me to

Ryoka swung around. Wing Commander Embria stared at Ryoka. She nearly dropped Relcs spear. The Drake cursed. Both of them looked aroundMrsha was racing off. Ryoka stared as she recallednow, more clearly than everthat Relc was a father. Embria looked at Relc. Erins eyes bulged.

In that momentthere was a lot of accusation in the air. A lot of shock. Judgment. Ryoka looked over and met Lyonettes eyes. The [Princess] was trying not to smile as she gave Ryoka a covert nod.

But Erin was shocked. Even outraged. And that went double for Embria. Relc was embarrassed, looking around for pants that were missing when needed most.

Hey. UhI told you I should have gone out the window. Stuff like this happens all the time.

The City Runner looked at him. And then she looked around. At the judgment. Shock, turning to outrage. She thought of the ways she might react. Run away, deny

Instead, she started laughing. The young Human woman clutched at her bare stomach as she chuckled. And then just laughed. For surely Ivolethe would have been laughing too. The others started as Ryoka laughed. And Relc laughed too. They leaned on each other, laughing, as the shouting started. Let someone else be angry or ashamed.

But it looked like it was going to be an interesting day.

-

Honestly, it made sense with Mrsha. She regarded Lyonette as her mother. And it was rightfully earned, by love. Ryokatheir relationship was different. But Ryoka was a guardian, if a faulty one.

Her jealousy and sense of betrayal made sense, even if it was a bit childish. EmbriawellRelc had watched her stalk off in a huff. But she was an adult.

What didnt make sense was Erin. Later, Ryoka sat a table across from the [Innkeeper]. And of all the people with a stake in this, she seemed to be the mostindignant.

I cant believe it.

Erin

Why? Why?

Hey, what can I say? No one can resist the Relc

Ryoka and Erin looked at the Drake. He hesitated, and then shuffled off to another table.

Im gonna sit here.

The [Innkeeper] stared at him, and then at Ryoka, bug-eyed.

You two.

The City Runner did not blush. She met Erins eyes. A bit uncomfortably.

Yes.

Last night.

Unless you think weve done this multiple times, yes.

Have you?

No! Erin, why is it a big deal?

The young woman just kept staring. It was starting to weird Ryoka out.

You. And Relc. You two

Slept together. Erin mouthed the words. She didnt even say it outright, as if it was a curse. Ryoka Griffin did blush then. Mainly because Erin was making it weird.

Yes! Alright! It was one time. What is the problem?

Everything! How? Why? Whenno, wait. Dont answerRyoka!

Ryoka grabbed at her hair. She had indeed slept with Relc Grasstongue, the burly Drake whistling and ignoring Mrsha, who was punching one leg. His scars were still fresh. And he lookedwell, down and up.

Down from the bad hand hed been dealt yesterday. An ambush, finding out The Golden Triangle was a big scamand up for one reason alone.

Ryoka had helped with that. Sex, in other words. Bumping uglies, uhshe ran out of metaphors, but there were a lot. Had it been sudden? Yes. Was it a mistake? Well, nowa day later she was overthinking itand Erin wasnt helping.

I justit was spur-of-the-moment, okay? I felt bad for him

So it was pity you-know-what?

The Drake [Guardsman] drooped. But not by much. Ryoka shook her head at once.

No! I mean, a bit of it was butlook, Erin! Have you looked at Relc? Hes pretty built!

Erin blushed. She stared at Relc, who was preening since he was listening in. Ryoka turned red herself. She looked at Erin.

Yes, it had happened. She hadnt been expecting to make a big thing out of it, but here they were. Ryoka sat back, feeling at her ears. She was sure her entire face was hot. She took a few breaths as Mrsha began to attack Relcs tail. She grappled itand he lifted her off the tail.

Strong muscles. Ryoka knew that. She turned to Erin, and saw the [Innkeeper] was no less embarrassed.

Whats wrong withsomething casual? I mean, I had this same conversation Erin, with Fwell, thats different. This?

They didnt know each other as well. That was what Erin objected to, but it was why it had happened, in Ryokas opinion. She had felt good about it, actually. It had beengood.

At this point Relc unhelpfully leaned over. Orhelpfully.

Yeah. Its just s

Erin slapped a hand over his mouth. But reallyMrsha was the only other person privy to this conversation. And the Gnoll knew full well the occurrence. She gave Ryoka a betrayed look. Ryoka tried to beckon her overMrsha just walked off in a huff.

But why?

The [Innkeeper] repeated. She didnt seem to get it. Ryoka looked at her.

Erin, do I have to have a reason beyond I want to? It wasnt a bad thing. Relcs not complaining.

She looked at the Drake. He smiled.

I mean, no one complains afterwards!

He puffed out his chest, hesitated.

Most of the time. Uhit was good. Yeah.

He gave Ryoka an awkward grin. She colored as Erins jaw dropped. But Ryoka was past the days of never seeing the person she spent a night with. She half-smiled and replied.

Youre not half-bad yourself.

The two started laughing. Erin looked at them, aghast. Perhaps it was because they were both friends of hers. Ryoka turned to Erin. She lowered her voice as Mrsha came back with a pot and slapped it down on Relcs tail. He yelped and got up to chase her.

Why wouldnt you like him? Is he that bad?

She didnt know Relc muchwell, she knew more after a night in his company, and that included the morning thereafter. Erin hesitated. She looked at Relc, who had scooped Mrsha and was tickling her as she punched and giggled silently.

No. Hes a good guy. But I just cant see myself

Huh. Not ever?

Ryoka blinked. There were a lot of people whom shed never see anything with. But not even imagining it? Maybe Erin just didntlikenon-Humans. An odd thought, but they had never discussed this. Erin squirmed uncomfortably.

Not like that. I just dontI mean, look, Ryoka. Im not judgingits just not for me.

Oh, how the lie emerged in that one. Ryoka gave Erin a steady look.

Thats fine too. But as long as no one hurts each others feelings, or theres nopregnancy or STIs or stuff, thats fine, right?

She was making a point. Erin hesitated and bit her lip. She was wrestling with the news.

I guess?

Ryoka Griffin peered at her. Was Erin Solstice, Erin who welcomed Goblins into her inn and Antinium, uncomfortable with sex? Was this like drugs? It was soodd for someone like her. And yet, it also made sense. Erin was against a lot of things. She hadnt handled Relcs being part of the Golden Triangle well yesterday. Maybe

Something was wrong. Erin looked so unhappy about it. Ryoka wanted to ask why. She stared at Erin closely until the [Innkeeper] looked away, turning red.

Sorry. I shouldnt judge.

Nah. I get it.

The City Runner replied softly. Erin looked at her.

If it was just thisthing. Because Relc was upsetI mean, one time and all

Erin. I dont do pity-sex. I liked Relc. Look at him.

He was an ugly Drake. Or so people said. Something about the tail? And face? Ryoka couldnt tell. What she saw was, well

She liked musculature. Hawk, CalruzRyoka had a type, aside from immortals. And Relc was close to peak physicality as they went. Grimalkin was a few strides over that line. But Relc? Shed seen narcissistic bodybuilders who looked poor compared to him.

Erin squinted at Relc. She shook her head after a few seconds, looking bothered. Ryoka sighed.

Anyways, it wasnt the first time I had sex since coming to this world, Erin. More like the third. I think.

What? Wait, what?

Why was she so shocked about this? Ryoka looked as strangely at Erin as the young woman was looking at her. But more of Erins history was revealing itself to Ryoka.

Erin was someone who might believeor have been taughtthat sex was only for when you were married. Ryoka winced. Well, that was an opinion in the world. Not hers.

I guessits all okay. But it was just sudden. Thats all.

That Ryoka could understand. It had been sudden. But it had taken a long night, andextraordinary events. She had been the one to find Relc, lying amid the bodies. Shed called for the Watch. And shed been the one to get him to come to the inn.

Why had it happened? It was more than just a spur-of-the-moment. The moment wasnt the moment but a long night where she kept Relc company, even when Erin and Embria and the others surrounded him. Talking aboutwell, running. Shared experiences like how they knew Erin.

He told her about being a [Soldier]. Sheshe talked about the Goblin Lord because it was personal and he was hurting. And it was intimate. He talked about Embria. Endlessly, really. How hed tried to raise her, how she ran off and was disappointed in him

It was odd, talking to a regretful father because Ryoka disliked her parents intensely. But thenher parents didnt care. Relc cared, but he was clumsy. Hed made mistakes. And that was something she completely understood. And after that?

At one point Relc had successfully struck himself out with six different females of different species with his atrocious pickup linesand he had sympathy scars! But Ryoka had laughed herself off her seat and then

Well, theyd worked on her when shed encouraged him to keep going. Ryoka had felt a strong connection with Relc over doing the right thing, however hard. Rather like her and Lupp, really. But different. Relc laughed a lot more. He was, in his way, rather considerate. Kind.

Kindness was attractive to Ryoka Griffin. She discovered that about herself. She had never realized that.

Uhuhwho were the other two?

At this point Ryoka decided shed shared enough details. She got up.

Ill tell you later. Erin, I have to run soon. Let me just talk to RelcI think hes going to need to go to the Watch barracks.

He had been summoned to discuss the Bearclaw incident. But for now, Relc was swinging Mrsha off of one arm and she was laughing hard enough to have forgiven him.

Maybe not Ryoka. Mrsha turned her head, but Relc gently lifted her up.

Hey. Im cool. Shes cool. Whats the problem?

The little Gnoll considered this. She grudgingly gave Ryoka a nuzzle. Ryoka held Mrsha and then let her wiggle off to the ground and pad off. She and Relc stood there. After a moment, Relc cleared his throat.

Hey. Just wanted to say thanks. Yknow. Forstuff. And its totally cool if it was just this one time. Ithelped me out. We dont need to mention it. We can just wave at each other or something

That was the funny thing. Ryoka looked at Relc. He did think about these things. Even if he had little tact. She nodded at him.

Youre not a bad guy, Relc. Why dont you wait to see me again and well catch up? No promises.

He looked at her. From the way his jaw dropped, she was fairly certain that wasnt an offer he got very much. He hesitated, and then blustered.

Hey, sureopen minded. Thats me! Thats Relc-style.

She gave him a look. He dropped the bluster and looked embarrassed. Ryoka couldnt help it. She laughed and Relc started laughing too. The secret of Relc was that he didnt take himself that seriously.

The secret was that he was deeper than what you took him for. Like everyone else.

I dont regret it. Just so you know. And it was my decision, bad lines and all.

Ryoka punched Relc in the shoulder. The Drake grinned.

Hey, you know, once you use the best lines on the ladies, they cant resist

He caught her expression.

Sorry.

Its alright. Were adults. And thisis fine. We dont need to defend it.

Ryoka said it half for Erin, who turned red at the unspoken reprimand in the City Runners voice. And half for Mrsha. The little Gnoll probably should be scolded for her prank. She sat under a table, ready for one.

But the City Runner just scooped her up in a hug. She swung Mrsha back and forth.

You little prankster. Dont do it to anyone else, got it?

She meant Pawn and Lyonette. Mrsha hesitated. Ryoka hugged her.

Its not a bad thing. It just means two peoplelike each other, Mrsha. Id never stop loving you. You understand? I might be a bad person. But Im not that bad.

The little Gnoll looked up. And then she hugged Ryoka, fiercely. She sniffed. Perhaps more of her prank had been part of her emotions.

Hey. Its totally cool. You can hit me. Im an idiot, Mrsha. Go ahead. Punch me. I can take it!

Relc was alarmed by Mrshas sudden grief. He came over. Mrsha punched at him, weakly. But that wasnt it.

Its not you, Relc. Ijust have to go. I should have stayed with Mrsha. She knows I have to leave today.

Ryoka felt guilty, now. She had focused on Relc, gone after him because she knew how he must have been feeling. But Mrsha clung to Ryoka.

Does it have to be today?

Erin spoke up. She looked a bit ashamed as well. Ryoka was gladshe hadnt flared up at Erin. Not today. She met the [Innkeeper]s eyes.

Im sure. I have to, Erin. Theres so much to do. I have to beg an audience with Magnoliawell, TEldavin is going to do that. But I need to find more. Two more, at least.

To bring back Ivolethe.

To meet her again.

The young woman nodded. Erin hesitated. Bit her lip.

But its just once. Why is it?

So important? Ryoka knew Erin had questions. Doubts. Of course she did. To meet Ivolethe one more time, Ryoka had to do the impossible. Create a party to summon the fae, invite three grand nobles of Izril.

Why was it worth it just to see her friend again? Perhapsbecause she and Ivolethe were friends. Ryoka couldnt explain it better any other way. She had so few friends. Erin, Ivolethe, Fierre, Luppmaybe Alber, Relc, Ceria, Calruz and a few others counted.

But so few in this world. For any one of them, Ryoka would run through the Bloodfields in the summer. To save their lives? Shed risk her life. Ivolethe had died for her. Ryoka wanted to see her again. Not just because she missed her friend.

Ivolethe could teach her how to master the wind.

I have to go, Mrsha. I do. And Im not going alone. The Horns are going to pick up their gear, and then were going to head north. Together. For a bit.

Shed run as soon as they left Invrisil. The Horns were too slow. But Mrsha didnt have to know that. She hugged Ryoka tight.

Griffon Hunt too. Well be on the road for an hour or two.

The City Runner gently cradled Mrsha as she heard a snuffle. Erin looked misty-eyed too.

I know they just got back. Butbutcant you stay forever? Ill feed you until you get fat and old. You can even sleep with Relc.

Hey! Am I negative or positive, here?

Relc pretended indignance. But Erin was just as upset as Mrsha. Like before, they were leaving. The adventuring teams had come back for a few glorious days. But they couldnt stay here.

Im sorry. Ill be back. Now I know the door is in InvrisilIll visit. Even if I have to take a carriage to visit. Reizmelt isnt that far. Its not like Im at First Landing. And Im a Runner. We go everywhere, Mrsha. Youll be brave for me, right? Ill come back. I swear.

Ryoka knelt down. Mrsha nodded. Her face was streaming with snot and tears. Ryoka wiped at her face.

Im so sorry I didnt say goodbye. I was just afraid youd be sad. But Im a bad person, arent I?

A desperate shake of the head. Again, they hugged. Relc cleared his throat. Ryoka looked up at him.

Hey.

Sothanks.

For what? I meant what I said. Ill see you again, Relc Grasstongue.

He smiled. And looked just a bit pleased about that. Ryoka Griffin took a deep breath, as people began to come down the stairs.

Grumpy Halrac, Revi, asking what Erin had been shouting about so early. Tousle-haired Ceria, yawning as she leaned on Ksmvr. Yvlon, properly attired and dragging Pisces down the stairs. Typhenous, Briganda bouncing Cade who waved at Mrsha. Ryoka Griffin looked up as she lifted Mrsha in her arms.

And she said goodbye. Just for a little while.

-

She thought of him more thereafter. Fixated on him, really. She had liked him. Really. An embraceshe yearned for it.

And it scared her to pieces. But she had experience in sex, relationships both carnal and otherwise. To judge from Erins shockthe [Innkeeper] had not.

In a way, it fit Erins personality. She liked everyone. Loved? Ryoka could see Erin loving Relc, just like she loved Bird and Mrsha and everyone else. But love, with that painful emotion that tore bits out of you and made you insensible andErin?

No, that was harder to picture.

When Ryoka Griffin fell in love with someone, even for a night, she overthought things. Were they a good fit? What would they look like older? Could the relationship last? What about kids?

She had those thoughts. Her brain ran ahead of any relationship. Confuscated the issue. That was why hookups with people she didnt know were so much preferable to her.

It was just strange to Ryoka that Erin was sowithdrawn. Prudish. Maybe it was the way she was raised. But it washad been2016. Or 2017, now, Ryoka supposed.

Sex was something everyone had. Except the Antinium. Except people who didnt.

Ryoka fell in loveor attraction, at the very least. If she had not admired the Drakefelt for himnothing would have happened.

Erin nowRyoka was almost certain she had not seen Erin in love. The [Innkeeper] was surprisingly close with her inner feelings. You thought she was an open book. But few people had seen Erin in the height of a genuine emotion.

Rage. Hatred. SorrowRyoka had seen Erin angry, once. She had an intensity about her. What did Erin in love, real love and attraction look like?

The City Runner almost wanted to know. But she was on the road. She stepped through to Invrisil. And she left The Wandering Inn behind.

Two Gold-rank teams joined her. The Horns of Hammerad waved until the sad Gnoll was gone. Ryoka was afraid to turn around after her goodbye or shed start crying. Griffon Hunt was more stoic.

Hedault has our gold and the artifacts he promised. We need to pick them up. Meet at the northern gates inforty minutes? Well ride together until we split.

Halrac looked at Ceria and Ryoka. The City runner nodded.

I have to check with the Runners Guild. I doubt Ill get a deliverybut dont wait on me if I do.

Well go too. I meanwere picking up our stuff from Hedault. Well wait for you, Ryoka.

Ceria sniffed and wiped at her eyes. They split up.

It had been a quick goodbye. But no less emotional. Mrsha tugged at Pisces robes, as if asking to just keep him. Erin had burst into tearsand only the fact that theyd already done these goodbyes had kept them from being overdrawn.

-

Actuallythere had been one funny moment. Jelaqua had cried almost as much as Erin and Mrshabut the Selphid was emotional like that. Green tears had leaked from eyes as, for some reason, she singled Ceria out.

Congratulations. Is it serious?

Were pretty serious, yeah. I meanwere giving it a shot. Ill let you know how it goes.

The half-Elven [Cryomancer] was astonished to see Jelaqua burst into more tears. The Selphid hiccupped and turned to her team.

Oh dead gods. They grow up so fast. This is huge. IIare you sure? You just met, but if you know, you know, I guess. Maughin and I were like that.

She looked at Seborn. The Drowned Man just looked at Ceria.

Er. Congratulations.

Thanks? We wont be gone long.

I hope not. We will take care of your loved ones for you.

Moore promised Ceria solemnly. Ulinde shyly offered her hand.

Congratulations, Miss Ceria. IIm sorry for before. Best of luck.

Youre really going to do it?

The half-Elf nodded slowly. Griffon Hunt were going on a request to Riverfarm, wherever that was. But somehow Montressa and Bezaand the Halfseekersmust have heard about the Horns plans. They were headed north. To take on more requestsbut also because Pisces believed they had an opportunity there.

I meanwe discussed it. Everyone. And we think its for the best.

Dead gods. That changes everything. Iuminvite us when its time.

Yes.

Bezale gave Ceria an odd, awkward look. The half-Elf put it down to the way theyd been at odds recently. She smiled.

I will. Well come back too.

Jelaqua came over, all weepy. She insisted on hugging Ceria again.

Let us know. And good luck on your adventures! You have something to come back for now, dont you?

I always did.

Oh dead gods! It must be true!

The Selphid had given Ceria an astonished look. She turned away as the goodbyes were said.

I cant believe it. But I guess the rumors are true. Heyhey Relc! Have you heard?

-

That had beenweird. Ryoka suspected something had been off. But she hadnt asked. The Wandering Inn would continue. And

She would come back again. Ryoka had promised Mrsha. To seal that promiseshe had left something behind. Her inspiration. The reason for leaving.

The little statue of Ivolethe wasnt much compared to Mrshas birthday presents. But it was valuable. The Gnoll had put it under her pillow. Ryoka would come back for it.

She would come back. The City Runner inhaled as the Gold-rank teams saw the door to The Wandering Inn close. Ryoka nodded to the others.

Forty minutes. Ill be there.

She jogged off. It hurt, leaving the inn behind. But Ryoka had to move. Shed come back when she had more time, after the Summer Solstice.

There had been one more interesting event. As Ryoka jogged through the city, making for the Runners Guild, she reflected on another person shed left behind. Whom she wished she had more time for.

-

Ryoka?

The City Runners eyes widened as she broke off from hugging Erin. She looked at the Stitch-girl.

Octavia?

She embraced the [Alchemist]. They hadnt had much time to talk. In fact, among all the drama, Octavia had been shoved to the back. AndRyoka was about to leave in ten minutes.

The [Alchemist] looked at Ryoka.

I did it. I made the penicillin, Ryoka.

You did? Holy

Ryoka was stunned. Unfortunatelyshe had no idea what to do with that information. Shed settled for putting her hands on Octavias shoulders.

Sell it. Give it to [Healers]. It can help with bacterial infections. Its yours, Octavia. It must have been hard. So its yours. Justjust do me a favor? Dont tell anyone how you discovered it. Call it something else. And make it as cheap as possible, please? It will save lives.

I will. Oh, dead gods. I wish Id talked to you earlier, Ryoka.

Im sorry.

The City Runner had been ashamed for missing Octavia, but the [Alchemist] had been just as embarrassed.

I wanted to saythank you for helping me. I wasnt grateful. And you helped me out more than I can say.

Me too. I meanI was a terrible person. I probably still am.

Octavia gave her a watery smile.

That makes two of us. Hereplease, take this.

And shed pushed all of her new potions shed learned from Saliss into Ryokas arms, refusing to take money for it, much to Ryokas astonishment. Octavia had changed.

-

So had she. Ryoka Griffin reached the Runners Guild of Invrisil. It was a bustling place. Four times as big as Reizmelts Guild.

Inside, the place was hopping with Runners going to the multiple stations for [Receptionists], turning in local deliveries, larger onesthere was even a damn horse standing next to a remarkably short man.

A Courier. Ryoka vaguely recognized him. The Moonlight Rider. WellInvrisils Runners Guild was one of the biggest on the continent.

So Ryoka squared her shoulders and approached the counter.

Station and purpose?

The [Receptionist] was brisk, efficient. Nothing like a smaller citys [Receptionist] who would happily gossip, ask your name and so on first. Ryoka Griffin spoke.

City Runner. Looking for high-risk or reserved deliveries for [Lords], or [Ladies]. Dangers no problem. Any of the Five Houses is preferred, thank you.

The [Receptionist] glanced up with a frown. She did a double-take, noting Ryokas features, as well as the extraordinary nature of the request.

There are a few requests for City Runners of that nature. But theyre hotly contested, Miss?

Griffin. Ryoka Griffin.

The [Receptionist] flipped through a small three-ring binder of the latest requests.

Well, we get all sorts of requests. I can findeight for you, Miss Griffin. Two Courier-rank in danger

Id like to look at them all, if I may?

Ryokas heart was pounding. She knew it was a risk. But she had to take big risks to meet with a [Lord] or [Lady] who could satisfy the fae. Laken alone wasnt enough, as Teriarch had pointed out. Even if Magnolia agreedthat left two. Erin had promised to help, but even her luck didnt mean a member of the Five Families would just up and visit her inn, surely.

Hm. Even so, MissGriffinwe do not offer dangerous requests to unproven City Runners. We lose enough as it is. Im afraid youd have to file your name for the requestees to look into, and they seldomoh. Ryoka Griffin?

She looked up, and her disinterested expression turned into one of study. Ryoka felt her stomach lurch.

Erm. Yes. Thats right.

The City Runner who survived the Bloodfeast Raiders?

The young womans heart fell in her chest. She bowed her head.

Yes. Thats right. Im sorry

For what? That changes things. Lets see. Miss Ryoka Griffin, the Wind Runner of Reizmelt. Yesthat changes a lot. Your name is on record.

It is?

Ryoka glanced up. The [Receptionist] actually smiled at her.

Alime, the [Receptionist] of Reizmelts Guild? Shes put a number of comments on your file tocompensate for the other notes, it seems. You have a history, however short youve been running, Miss Griffin. I think I can authorize you to apply for some of these requests. I have to run it by the Guildmaster, but I think he will accept. Will you give me one second?

Oh. Yes! Thank you!

Ryoka stood straighter. The [Receptionist] gave a nod and left her station, walking into the Guildmasters office. Ryoka stood at the counter, noting the eyes on her from the other Runners waiting in lineor now hopping to other lines as it became clear Ryoka was going to take a while.

Ryoka Griffin. Well, well. Weve all heard your name around here.

An accented voice drawled behind Ryoka. The City Runner felt her shoulders begin to hunch. Butshe was still new to Invrisil, having only visited once before. She turned around, slowly.

You have?

A lot of Runners, both Street and City, were looking at her. But the young man directly behind Ryoka was the most direct about it. He eyed Ryoka up and down, one eyebrow raised, and nodded.

Weve heard about you. Nothing but trouble. You once caused an avalanche in a guild, you steal other Runners contracts, and youre a violent, slattern of a foreigner.

Each accusation put Ryokas shoulders up more and more. That sounded a lot like

Persua. And if there was a name for the pustulent mole on the ass-crack of the Devil himself, it was Persua. Ryoka had heard Persua was being considered for Courier status and had gone north from Fals. She hadnt realized that would mean trouble for her.

The young man regarded Ryoka. He was shorter, but looked tough. A crossbow and rapier hung from either side and Ryoka felt her internal warning bells go off. But before she could deny the allegations or do anythingthe new City Runner held out his hand.

Im delighted to meet you. You must be an upstanding citizen if thats all I hear. Delanay dArtien.

Ryoka blinked at the gloved hand extended towards her. She took it automatically, and felt a firm handshake. Then she took in the City Runner, Delanay, again.

He was, possibly, among the most stylish of dressers that Ryoka Griffin had ever met. And she had met many people.

He wore, from top to bottom, a long, rakish hat that would have fit any debonair [Duelist] in an action movie, bright red like blood, adorned with a sigil of acrossbow and an oversized arrow? In silver. It was buckled around the brim, rather like a pilgrims hat, but meant for style, not utility.

Below his hat lay a silvery scarf, the most vibrant thing on him, wrapped around his neck. It glistened in a way that even silk would not; the fabric looked metallic. The young man had on a modernistic, long-flowing trench coat that reached down his body. Red again, over a white button-up shirt that was only changed by the same sigilagain, drawn in silver, not gold.

The jacket, incidentally, was outfitted with a number of compartments, both visible and concealed, and was thus practical and stylish. And stiff; it was dyed leather, not anything else. It looked old, but it was meticulously well-kept.

His pants were of course, loose, for he was a Runner, but even here, he wore red, darker, but noticeably thick as well for all they moved freely. Some composite fabric that gave him closed shoes, the four rings he wore, the amulet like a dagger around his neck, the spectacles on his nosea look.

Vampire hunter. He could have stepped out of the same cloth the [Hunters] from Terandria had been cut with. His insignia was a cross and stake. And even his hair had silver strands crossing his duller, brown hair.

At your service.

The young man swept his hat off his head and gave her a courtly bow. Ryoka, taken, bowed back, or tried to.

Ryoka Griffin.

Delanay, again. House Artien. I am delighted to make your acquaintance, Ryoka Griffin. Ive heard youd sleep with a horde of Goblins and kick little babies for fun. But since I heard it from the most objectionable rat-girl Ive ever met, I have to conclude the opposite.

That little speech was meant for everyone listening. There was a susurration around the room, and Ryoka smiled despite herself. Here was someone who gave no fucks whatsoever and she liked him, instantly.

Thank you, Delanay. I uhdont suppose this rat girl has a name?

The young man grimaced. He adjusted the silver scarfoh he was definitely a Vampire hunterand glanced about the Guild as he spoke.

You might know her as Persua

He broke off as Ryoka groaned.

Persua. Wait, is she here?

Not today. Or I wouldnt be here. I take it youve run afoul of her? Shes wormed her way into the Guild by, as I would put it, sleeping with every Goblin or Runner she could.

The young man raised his voice and received glares. He didnt seem to care. He smiled at Ryoka and tipped his hat again.

Myself, Im a common City Runner despite my nobility. And both my common side and noble upbringing told me not to associate with that kind of scum. Ive been waiting to meet you, Wind Runner.

Ryoka, please. And Persua and I are enemies. Or ratherwhen I think of her, I wish she was dead.

Ryokas earnest comment made Delanay laugh. They stood in front of the counter, talking.

I hear you work around Reizmelt. Myself, Im mostly around Invrisil. I heard you asking about dangerous request because I was listening in. Are you in a bad spot?

The other way around. Trying to get to the top.

The young man gave a knowing nod. He had to be hot in all his layers, in the summer, but he gave no sign of it. He tipped his hat as he eyed the Guildmasters office.

Well, I can respect that. Us City Runners need to work hard to get to the same rank as that lot.

He jerked his head at the Moonlight Rider and his horse, who was inspecting the requests he offered her and rejecting them. Ryoka eyed the duo as well.

Youre a City Runner?

He smiled.

Not fast enough to be a Courier, for all my noble house. Im not low-ranked, if thats what you mean. Excuse me, I should introduce myself fully. I am of the Artien family. A minor house as nobility goes. Out of date, out of style.

He gestured to his clothing and insignia.

Were descended from Noelictus, the Kingdom of Shade. Our familys oh, nine thousand years old? Young. We traveled to Izril a long time ago, practically at our founding. But thats old news. Were just relics, tarnishing in the modern era. Like the Byres house, actually.

Ohdo you know House Byres? Im actuallyfriendswith one of their descendants.

Delanay grimaced.

And here I go, running my mouth. Were actually very close with House Byres.

Oh really? What a coincidence.

Of course. Ryoka stared at Delanays dress. Crossbow. Rapiera [Vampire Hunter]s garb. She shouldnt be talking to him. She was very conscious of the panacea meant for Fierre. But Delanay was friendly. Anddismissive of his roots.

Its old hat. Were both anti-monster noble families, but the monsters we hunt are long-dead. So were poor, but honorable. Myself? I just like how we dress.

He winked at Ryoka. She grinned at him.

There is that. Well, thank you for not listening to Persua. I hate her.

Oh, dead gods. Thank you for saying that. Shes endeared herself to half the Runners here with her sob stories of how Celum mistreated her and whoring herself out to everyone else. Im sick of it.

Delanay did not mince words. Something about him struck Ryoka as being too judgmental. The kind of fellow who would judge you for a smudge on your clothing as a personal sin. But before they could talk longer, the [Receptionist] was back.

Miss Griffin? We can approve you to meet with some of the requestees for Courier-level assignments. They will choose whether to disclose the request, but you are allowed their information.

Ryoka turned to the [Receptionist].

I am? Thank you. Can I see?

The woman had a list ready. Ryoka ran her eyes down the list. She recognized only a few names. But some were in Invrisil. Ryoka asked for a copy and the [Receptionist] provided it.

It was up to Ryoka to approach the clients to be allowed the right to deliver the dangerous packages. She wasnt a Courier, so they risked losing their cargo. She risked losing her life, so fair was fair. Ryoka had only twenty minutes left, though. But some of the nobleswhile not of the Five Familieswere important.

Thank you. Im going to approach them at once.

The [Receptionist] waved her off. Much to Ryokas surprise, Delanay left his place in line. He trotted after her.

I recognized some of the names on that list because I was reading it. Strikes me that you might be able to meet with two of them if I accompany you.

He informed Ryoka as they left the Runners Guild. The City Runner did a double-take.

You will? I meanif you can get me an introduction, thank you. But why?

She wasnt a complete fool. Delanay smiled.

Aside from wanting an ally? I consider helping Persuas enemies a reward unto itself. And lastlyI hope youll do me a favor as well. Thats how we work, right?

True enough.

Ryoka conceded this. Delanay could have other motives, but shed take anything she could. Hellshed invite Yvlons entire family to the solstice party if she couldnt get three great nobles. The two trotted through the city.

Practical. I knew I liked you. Now, the first member of the list, Lady Imarris, is actually in Invrisil. Mores the luck. Lets ask to meet her. Shell know my houses name. And then you can do me a favor when I need it.

And the favor is? Sorry, I know youre a City Runner. Dont you have work to do?

He grinned, and his teeth were very white. Delanay adjusted his scarf.

Actually, Im a special type of Runner. Im an Emergency Runner. I dont run normal deliveries. I only run when theres trouble and they need someone who can fight and deliver potions or antidotes. Thats me.

Oh!

He gave her a nod.

You run my kind of job, Miss Ryoka Griffin. And youre no [Mage]. Id love to know how you conjure your windstorms.

Ohyoure going to be disappointed.

He laughed.

We shall see. Now, do you have a plan or were you going to just stride up to Lady Imarris household, assuming you even knew where she was staying?

Ryoka Griffin grinned as she checked the time. About twenty minutes left. Wellshe had told the others to leave without her.

I have my ways too.

-

Lady Ieka Imarris was having a bad day. She stood in her rather large, luxury room rented in one of Invrisils best inns. It could have held multiple families and still had space left over.

But it was not her estates. This was not her city. And she had not bought properties here, because the owner of Invrisil was not her friend.

Magnolia Reinhart. Oh, how the name galled. How did the woman manage to be soso repellently evil and petty and still cling to her power? How did she get away with everything?

How was she so lucky? Ieka fumed as she threw herself into a couch. Not her stuffed rabbit-hide furniture; this one roughed her skin for all it was high-quality.

Zenna! Whats next on my itinerary, after this waste of a day?

The [Mage Lady] grumpily called out. A half-Elf [Aide] came forwards, amid Lady Imarris bodyguards, her elites. The [Spellarmor Warriors], her escort, guarded her room.

All women. Including Zenna. The half-Elf was old, old enough to have grey hair mixed with auburn. And she looked at Imarris with an exasperation you only got after looking after someones every affair for over twenty years.

Lady Ieka Imarris was a practical woman. Ambitious, yes. A member of the Circle of Thorns? Ditto. Interested in lovely members of her own gender? Absolutelybut that was a secret to all. But practical nonetheless.

Shetookgood ideas that she saw from her peers and implemented them. Having a specialty, refusing to innovatethat was how noble houses died. And Ieka Imarris was cutting-edge.

The [Spellarmor Warriors] were a copy of Lady Bethals Knights of the Petal. Iekas fondness for [Maids] came from Magnoliaand Ressa. And Zenna?

Well, the House of El had half-Elven guides. Why shouldnt she? Ieka had hired Zenna two decades ago and hadnt ever had a cause to regret it.

She even had Golems, in the style of Wistram and the Terland family. Shed experimented with taming monsters, but after a few disasters, shed given up.

The point was that Ieka innovated. Some called her a copycat, and it was true that she didnt excelher bodyguards were not as famous as Bethals [Knights] for all Ieka tried. But the lady mage had had good success herself.

But she was annoyed today. For one main reason. Part of what Ieka did wasinvest in concepts she believed in. All nobles did that, really. But Ieka kept her ear to the ground. Or she kept other peoples ears to the ground and had them report.

Shed heard of the Players of Celum. But Magnolia had been one step ahead of her, as usual. Somehow, shed secured their loyalty.

The [Manager], Emme, had explained it all apologetically to Ieka. And the [Lady] had endured watching a play that Magnolia would benefit fromshe was sponsoring the Players of Celum to expand their production and take it even further northwith ill-grace. The worst part was that the [Actors] were so charming.

That Drake in the dresswell, Drakes were not Iekas style. She admired the Human form. But not everything was romance and lust. She wanted the [Actors]. And Magnolia had gotten them first.

Iekas bad temper was also a copy of her peers. It wasnt as infamous as Bethals tantrums, or Prydes rage. She just got snippy.

You have yet to visit The Wandering Inn, Lady Imarris. I know you expressed some interest.

Before today. Before I learned that Pryde has been bogarting the entire place. Shes probably bought everything of worth. Im not chasing after Magnolias leavings, even if there is a magic door there, Zenna. Next?

Erm. That would be it. You have no business in Invrisil. This has been a complete waste of your time, Lady Ieka. I shall remove myself now before you throw a snit.

Zenna bowed. The half-Elf had a rather direct manner of addressing her [Lady] herself; it had reminded Ieka of Ressa, hence the hiring. The [Lady] glowered at nothing and everything.

After a while, she decided she was going north. Nothing to do here? She might as well weigh in on this Ailendamus drama. They had apparently earned the Lord of the Dances wrath in some ill-conceived attack on his forces.

She had things to do. She was important. Ieka stood up.

Zenna! We are leaving. Prepare the carriage north.

Again, her carriage wasnt as fast as Magnolias, but it was still enchanted. Zenna appeared in the doorway to the antechambers.

Pardon, Lady Ieka. But you do have something else to do. It just came up. There is a City Runner hoping to see youtwo of them, actually. A Lord Delanay dArtien offered his name as well. But the City Runner would like to take care of your request for the Couriers.

Ieka sat up.

Really? A City Runner?

She wasnt that interested. Her request was meant for a Courier because it was dangerous. Covert. But it was always interesting, being sought out. She drummed her fingers on the armrest of the cough.

This Runner is?

Zenna consulted the notes she had.

A Ryoka Griffin. Wind Runner of Reizmelt is her nickname. Reliableif you overlook rumors about her. Apparently, commands the winds in some way. Lets seeshes run for Lady Bethal, Lady Reinhartsurvived a run through the High Passes

That was intriguing. Ieka kept a scowl off her face as she heard the other two [Ladies]. That wasnt the Runners fault.

Did she say anything?

City Runners sometimes volunteered for dangerous jobs. Ieka had dangerous assignments in spades, and she had heard them try to pitch themselves. The trouble was that hiring a City Runner meant your request was likely to fail, and your valuable cargo likely to be stolen or your plans unraveled.

Nevertheless, you could sometimes take a risk. Ieka waited as Zennas lips quirked. The half-Elf looked up.

Indeed. Aside from Lord dArtiens request for an audience, Miss Griffins exact words wereI hope Lady Imarris will see me. I have successfully run deliveries for no less than Magnolia Reinhart, and survived. With that said, I think Magnolia Reinhart would be gladder if I were dead. She is apparently desirous of a reward other than your posted bounty, Lady Ieka.

The Lady Imarris had been scowling at Magnolias name. But that last part made her laugh. And her mood lightened at once. Whether it was true or untrue, Ryoka Griffin had done her homework and delivered the message that Ieka wanted to hear.

Clever. Well, I am not busy as you said, Zenna. Have the carriages prepped while I entertain thisRyoka Griffin. Send in young Delanay as well.

Zenna nodded. She went to the doors. Ieka arranged herself on the couch, waiting. But as Zenna opened the doorsan argument floated into her rooms from the antechamber.

-

I would like you to say that again, Miss.

Delanay dArtien was quickly revealing himself to be a hothead just as bad as Ryoka in her prime. He had one hand on his rapier as he studied the [Spellarmor Captain], who was guarding Lady Iekas rooms. She had made a few comments about Ryoka after hearing that Ryoka had ties to Lady Magnolia.

After all, Iekas bodyguards shared their mistress opinions. Ryoka had been willing to let being called a lapdog slidebut Delanay had not. He leaned forwards as the [Warriors] looked at him with contempt. They had thick, ensorcelled plate armor on. He had stylish dress and a sword. Nevertheless, the City Runner replied to the [Captain] with an edge to his voice.

If youre going to insult us, say as much to our faces. I am Delanay dArtien and if you have the guts, Miss, Ill answer your every insult. Assuming youre not content to hide behind your Mistress authority?

Delanay, drop it. Were here for an audience.

Ryoka hissed. The [Captain] looked outraged as she shifted her grip on the mace. Delanay gave Ryoka a glance full of anger.

No one looses insults in my presence. Well, Miss [Captain]? Or is that mace for show? Lets not pretend there is a fairer sex if youre worried of having your features marred. Either you are a [Warrior] and can back up your words or not.

He strode forwards and prodded the [Captain]. Ryoka covered her face. Was this how Erin had felt around her? She saw the [Captain] purple and was sure they were five seconds from being beaten to a pulpwhen the doors opened.

Lady Imarris will see you now. Lord Delanay, your restraint. Captain Kelda?

Everyone straightened as a half-Elven woman opened the doors. Ryoka sighed in relief. Delanay turned and bowed, abashed.

Miss Zenna. A pleasure.

Lord Delanay, your tongue hasnt improved with age. Perhaps another ten years will do. Pray, enter. And mind your manners. Miss Griffin? Lady Imarris awaits.

The half-Elf gestured. Ryoka took a deep breath. She had asked Fierre about how to approach Ieka. And her informant and friend had provided the easiest summary of Ieka.

Innovative, magical. Strongly dislikes Magnolia Reinhart and her circle. Fond of pretty faces.Try to smile.

Fierre

Thank you, Fierre.

Ryoka would bring her medicine soon. And thenwell, who knew? The City Runner squared her shoulders and walked into the room. She needed to make friends. So shed bow and scrape if need be. But she didnt need to. Because the first thing Lady Ieka Imarris said upon seeing Ryoka was

-

Oh my.

Lady Iekas first impression of Ryoka was tall, somewhat Drathian featuresdarker skin than the natives of Izril. Tall, as tall as she was, or even an inch or two taller. Long, black hair

Beautiful features. The [Lady] stared as Zenna introduced Delanay and Ryoka.

She was familiar with Delanaynobles always kept track of each otherIekas attention was on Ryoka. She had bare feet? For some reason, that only made it more scandalously attractive to see her standing on the rich carpets.

II am very intrigued by your request, Miss Ryoka Griffin. And such startling words. Please, approach.

Lady Ieka produced a fan and gently waved it as Ryoka stepped forwards. The City Runner bowed, made her introductions. Ieka barely listened as Delanay apologized for nearly picking a fight. The Artien family was full of hot-heads.

was hoping to take your Courier-level request, Lady Imarris. The one you had reservations about?

Zenna interjected and Ieka blinked. She blushed, hiding it behind her fan. She had been imagining what Ryoka would look like in a dress. Iekas previous favorite maid wasno longer working for her.

But the mention of the job snapped Ieka back to reality. She scrutinized Ryoka.

The Wind Runner of Reizmelt? YesZenna mentioned you could command the winds. But Im afraid my request is for a Courier-class, Miss Griffin. I would hate for you to risk your lifeunnecessarily. By all means, I shall remember your name. But

She looked helplessly at Zenna. Ryoka Griffin took that moment to take a knee. In doing so, she drew closer to the couch.

Iekas bodyguards stirred, but Ieka waved them to silence. She covered the lower half of her face as Ryoka looked up at her. The City Runners voice was low, urgent.

Lady Ieka, I do crave a boon. Im not interested in gold so much asa favor. There is an event on the Summer Solstice I would crave your attendance at. It isan odd request, I know. But for this, I would risk my life. I can talk to the winds. I have survived the High Passes three times. Even if I havent gone far in. Let me listen to the requestand then decide.

Imarris blinked at Ryoka. She took her in more fully.

Hm.

To buy time, she closed the fan and tapped it to her lips. The young woman was earnest. And the favorintriguing. More than that, she was interesting. Ieka didnt know, though.

Her request this time was to make contact witha dangerous person. Not hostile; but dangerous. She had been in seclusion for months and unless roused, might well spend another year or two in her hiding place on her island. But waking an Archmage was dangerous. And Ieka would not wish to see Ryokas guts adorning the ground like the last three shed sentincluding one Courier.

Neverthelessshe had a soft spot for brave young women. So Ieka sat back on her couch.

Tell me more, Miss Griffin. Zenna, do offer them a seat

-

Ryoka Griffin convinced Lady Imarris. It took some doing, but the [Lady] had given Ryoka a shot, despite her reservations. That was all that needed to be said.

Delanay had also been a piece of work. He had saluted Ryoka, promising to call in his little favor if they met again. And they would. City Runners always did.

But Ryoka Griffin ran down the road. Leaving Invrisil behind. She was busy. This was the first requestof many. Waking an Archmage from her seclusion. Wellit had to be easier than a Dragon, right?

Im going to have to go further north than ever. Take a damn carriage or something to cut down on travel time. Fierre might knowdamn, damn, damn

Time was an issue. But even so, Ryoka Griffin slowed as she saw a wagon rolling north. For at least a little whileshe could say goodbye to them.

Ryoka! You didnt show up, so we started moving.

No problem. Sorry Im late. I had to take a big request.

Anything we can help with?

Ceria pulled Ryoka up into the wagon. Yvlon asked as she took Ryokas hand in her silvery grip. Ryoka smiled at the two of them.

Old friends. New friends as well. They had all changed. And it was a funny thing. Some things never changed.

Oi! Is that Miss Ryoka Griffin? Well, Ill be darned. Its old friends all around.

Termin, the [Wagon Driver], looked up from his seat. Ryoka stared at him.

I saw you at Reizmelt!

Yup. Yup. Well, we get everywhere, dont we, Erma? Fox?

The old man patted the two horses trotting ahead of the wagon. Ryoka grinned.

Ryoka.

Halrac nodded to her. The city Runner sat there. She looked around.

Both teams were headed away from Invrisil. The Hornswho would go on foot at the crossroadsand Griffon Hunt. Cade was sitting on Brigandas knee, a new addition to the party. Briganda waved at Ryoka. The City Runner looked around.

I cant stay long.

The words hurt her. But they all knew it. And the adventurers had parted before. They smiled.

We did not have a chance to speak. But perhaps we shall call on you in our travels north.

Pisces commented as he shaved bits of cheese off a block to feed to Ksmvr and himself. The Antinium nodded, happily.

I do not really know you, Miss Ryoka Griffin. But I am told you are a good Runner with an objectionable personality at times. Hello. I am Ksmvr. We have met, though.

Ceria turned red. Ryoka just laughed again. She sat there, for a moment.

Its all true, Ksmvr. But Im trying to change. Listenif you need a delivery, or a message deliveredprobably go to a Courier or Mages Guild first. But if you need me, give me a shout.

They all laughed at that. Even Halrac. Revi chortled as she sat on the front of the wagon.

Were all friends of The Wandering Inn, I guess. Sure. Well look you up. Its going to be boring in Halracs old village, anyways.

Ryoka glanced at her, but she hadnt heard where Griffon Hunt was headed. Typhenous just stroked his beard.

We shall remember it, Miss Griffin. And we will meet again.

Definitely.

That was all they said. The adventurers and City Runner sat in the wagon, sharing an early lunch. Ryoka saw Cade staring up at her. She tried to smileand Briganda threw an arm around her shoulders.

Weve never met! But Im pleased to meet you! Cmere! Cade likes hugs.

She was friendly. Alsoa bit intoxicated. Briganda apparently drank to cure motion-sickness. It was her logic. And Ryoka settled back, ready to get back to work.

Shed visit the [Seamstress] in Reizmelt. No time here; although she had been tempted to ask Delanay. He seemed like a fellow who would know how to get quality tailoring done.

ButThe Wandering Inn had been a peaceful, needed interlude. Magical and wonderful. And she had to leave. The adventurers understood that, too. If Ryoka was fine with being old and fat, she would have stayed there forever. But she neededto see Ivolethe again.

The knowledge burned in Ryokas chest. But that was her goal, not the journey. For now, she just sat. And after a whileher conversation from this morning began to eat at her head. She coughed, and in a lull in the conversation as the Horns asked Griffon Hunt where the best villages to stop wereshe spoke causally into the silence.

Sothis might be an odd question. But who here has had uhcarnal relations this year?

Griffon Hunt had been having a drink of waterBriganda, beer. Halrac sprayed his drink onto Typhenous back. Ryoka saw Ceria inhale her packed lunch from Erin and began to choke.

Cade just looked blank. He laughed at the expression on the others faces. Ryoka turned beet red.

Uhsorry. I just had a conversation with Erin. So its been on my mind

The others relaxed. Oh, Erin. It all made perfect sense when you just said her name. Hey, does anyone have a wart on their knee? I need to know becauseErin. It was the perfect excuse.

Wellif anyones askingyes. Why?

Ceria slowly put up her hand. Ryoka hadnt asked for a censuswellshe had, and she saw the other adventurers putting up their hands.

Yvlon did not. Neither did Ksmvr. Halrac folded his arms, which could have meant anything. But everyone else raised a hand. Everyone stared at Typhenous raised hand. Ryokas eyebrows raised. The old man had game.

I knew it. Im not weird, Erin.

Ryoka muttered to herself, neglecting the fact that shed just asked both teams about it. And Terminhed been waving his hand so as not to be left out. She sighed, leaning back.

Whats this in aid of, Ryoka? Everyone has sex. Right, Yvlon? Right?

Ceria nudged Yvlon. The [Armsmistress] folded her arms and glowered.

Stop that, Ceria. My life is private. What I do or dont do is my business.

Halrac nodded, giving Yvlon an approving look. Ryoka just sighed.

I just didnt know how much people hereerwell, I was talking with Erin. Sheobjectedto me doing things.

Oh, you mean having sex with Relc?

Revi spoke as Briganda clapped her hands over her sons ears. Everyone else in the wagon stared at Ryoka. The City Runner turned red. The [Summoner] on the other hand just rolled her eyes and took one out of her eye sockets to adjust the fit.

I dont know why you Humans are so prudish. Sorry, Ceria, Ksmvr. But its natural. I have sex at least twelve times a year. Once per month, or I get grumpy. At minimum.

Revi! There are children here!

Halrac growled at her. The Stitch-girl raised her hands.

Pardon me for being honest, Halrac. Humans get so worked up about it. I get half-Elves. They have sex like, once every decade.

Erhalf-Elven villages get weird. But its natural. Right? Yvlon?

Stop nudging me.

It is a biological function. One should not judge others based on the need to seek comfort. Erin issomewhat strict in her views, I gather.

Pisces coughed, looking a bit embarrassed himself. Ksmvr waved a hand helpfully and everyone looked at him.

I do not have genitalia for reproduction. So I do not have sex. Thank you.

He sat back down, his contribution to the conversation over. Typhenous was laughing into his beard.

Its private. It doesnt matter.

Halracs voice sounded like the end of it. Briganda nudged Ryoka, winking.

Good on you getting the Drakes, though. Dont mess with the same species, I say. Experiment! Plusyou can get pregnant in the same lane. Not that I dont love my boy, but Im careful not to get another!

She laughed and Cade laughed too, not understanding what was being said. Ryoka bowed her head. After a moment of silence where she regretted her stupid mouth, Ksmvr turned to Ceria.

Captain Ceria, as perhaps the foremost expert on intercourse in the wagon, can you tell us what marital life is like? Or have you not been married yet?

For the second time Halrac spat his drink onto Typhenous. Ceria turned beet red.

What? Im not married, Ksmvr!

The Antinium gave her a very blank look.

You are not? Are you not engaged toaha. You are engaged to Master Hedault, your fianc. I apologize; the nuance was lost on me.

Ksmvrs team stared at him as the [Skirmisher] sat back, satisfied. Revis eyes slowly went round. She sat back as Typhenous, Halrac, and Briganda stared at her.

What? Ino! Dead gods! I neverhe doesnt even like us, Im pretty sure! Who gave you that idea?

Ceria spluttered. The half-Elf was red to her pointed ear tips. Pisces was starting to laugh into his robes and Ceria tried to kick him over the side of the wagon. Ksmvr looked very concerned.

I heard it being said at some point. Were you not aware of Captain Jelaqua congratulating you on your upcoming nuptials?

Oh tree rot. She canthow didKsmvr?

The half-Elf turned white. She looked at the [Skirmisher]. Slowly, he shrank into his shell.

I heard that Master Hedault proposed to Ceria. I have taken the liberty of informing everyone of the engagement.

Pisces began choking on his snack. Ryoka started laughing. Griffon Hunt slowly looked around at Revi. Briganda coughed into one hand as Cade played with his box on her lap. The others studiously pretended this was news to them.

Ceria Springwalker got up on the wagon.

Turn this wagon around! Send a [Message]! Tell them

But they were gone. And in time, the Horns left the wagon. Teasing the bride-to-be until she started throwing snow at them. The City Runner ran north, as the wagon turned west, heading towards an [Emperor]s lands.

It was time to go back to work.

-

After Ryoka left, Mrsha cried for about ten minutes straight. Not for hours or hours; she got tired. But enough.

It was still better than waking up and knowing that Ryoka had left without a word. Mrsha had cried every night because of that. This timeit was only for ten minutes.

She would come back. She had promised Mrsha that. And the proof was hidden under Mrshas pillow. Sothe little Gnoll wiped her nose on Roses pants and felt better.

Ew.

Rose looked at the snotty Gnolls leavings. But Erin Solstice herself was teary. She wiped her eyes and bent down as Lyonette just sighed.

I miss them too. But youre being very brave, Mrsha.

The [Druid] nodded. She was a big, brave girl. Erin Solstice smiled.

I think we need a treat. What say you we have Ryokas special dish?

Calling it that was a bit of a misnomer. Rather, it was Ryokas new dish that shed insisted on adding to Erins list of recipes. Mainly after Erin had presented her with all the fast food shed imported from Earth and Ryoka had seen the advent of grease and heart attacks and balked.

She lifted Mrsha up and carried her into the kitchen. Erin called out.

Hey Palt! Can you give me a hand with Ryokas bibimbap dish?

The Centaur looked up. So did a number of people. Erin was very casual about it as she laid out the neatly-chopped veggies; some of the saffron rice that Palt liked to make, and organized it into a bowl.

WellPalt organized it. Erin wasnt precise enough. And arrangement mattered.

But were just gonna stir it up anyways. Thats the point.

The [Innkeeper] complained as she fried some eggs to be put over the top of the bowl. Palt sighed as he heated up the bowls with a spell.

Erin, presentation is half of the meal. Food is art.

Yeah, well, I like chess.

Erin grumbled. The vegetables needed to be sauted, and Palt was doing complicated seasoning. She admitted it; she wasnt a [Chef]. She could cook and derived some pleasure from it, but she didnt have the patience of Lasica or Palt. Actually, Erin had been doing a lot less cooking of late. Lyonette, Palt, and Garry all took turns helping her out and since they could pre-make a lot of food

Well, the bowl did look pretty when Palt was done. Colorfulthe veggies were on top of the rice. Ryoka had agonized over the ingredients, but this was a versatile dish. You could improviseand she had.

Lets see. Fresh beef. Rawis that okay? Ryoka said it was okay. There might be parasites, though

Not in my food. And no good [Rancher] will give you infected beef.

Palt snorted. Erin stared at a bit of paste.

Hot, fermented peppery paste from my guy. I mean, my Gnoll guy. Um. Add less in my bowl. Thanks. Sliced carrots, bell peppers, spinachonions

That was where the ingredients from Earth ended. Instead of the soy bean sprouts Ryoka wanted, there were a number of tubers. Large suckers you found in caves known as dedem roots. They were chopped up finely. And instead of the zucchini or cucumber, the Centaur had used some plant from the gourd-family that apparently tasted the same. It was blue, with swirls of white in the inside.

The dish was colorful. And of coursemost of the vegetables had also been seasoned or prepared. Erin had to admit, it smelled good.

Mrsha was less sanguine about the dish. She sniffed suspiciously at the food as Palt carefully prepared four bowls, and then another four, with leftovers if necessary.

This looked like vegetables. She stared up suspiciously at Erin. The raw beef she approved of, but that was only a snack.

Ryoka says its really good. I think I had it once or twice. Dont say that, Mrsha. Try it, first.

The Gnoll was emphatically saying in sign language that for her tears she deserved some meat. Mrsha, grumbling, swiped some raw beef and gobbled it before following Erin out into the common room.

What is that?

Jelaqua was still sniffing over Cerias upcoming nuptials. But she blinked at the hot, steaming bowls of food. Erin smiled.

Its this thing. Bibimbap. Dont ask me what that means. Ryoka suggested we make it.

It wasnt Ryokas culture either. The name of the food made all of the inns regulars look up. They sensed it. And Kevin, Troy, and Rose all looked up.

No way. Bibimbap?

They grew excited. Erin looked at them, and then around for Montressa and Beza. There they were, taking notes. She sighed.

Mrsha, you sit there. Lyonette? Want some?

Of course. Wheres Numbtongue?

The Hobgoblin appeared at the table and Erin sat down. Palt trotted out, balancing four more bowls. He joined the table.

Ill make more. Lets just see how it tastesI think I followed the recipe.

They sat down. Erin explained how to eat it and Mrsha suspiciously eyed the spoons. Palt had two little sticks, claiming that was how you ate Balerosian/Drathian food. The little Gnoll took her spoon, and mixed up the bowl. Indeed, why did you waste time making it all pretty if you mixed it up? She bit at the eggbut Lyonette scolded her.

Dont eat it by parts, Mrsha. Mix it up. And take one big bite.

But its just rice and vegetables! Theres barely any meat or egg! The Gnoll whined. But the [Princess] was giving her a stern look.

Mrsha gingerly took a bite of the food. She tasted the crunchy, vibrant taste of the veggies. A hot flash of the peppery paste. The hot rice mixing with egg yolk and a bit of the beef. Her eyes widened. Her tail began to wag.

See? Its good, right?

I dunno about the raw beef. Its just a thing from home. Right, Kevin? Kevin?

Erin complained. But even Palt was chomping down on the food. The others were eating fast. Numbtongue was halfway through his bowl already, but slowing to savor each bite.

Hey. That looks good. Ill have one.

A Drake commented. The others nodded. No one had thrown up and the food smelled good. So that probably meant it was one of the good new things to come from the inn. Another Gnoll hurried out the door.

Street Runner! Hey! I need a Street Runner!

He shouted. There was a Gnoll kid in about a minute. The Gnoll gave him a short [Message]. It went to half a dozen [Cooks] in the city.

Tell them I get the finders fee. Its called bees-in-pots. I dont think it actually has bees. Lots of vegetables, apparently. Raw beef, too. And an egg!

The Street Runner raced off. And the cooks of the city abandoned their posts to be the first to stealeruncover the secrets of this new dish. After allwhat else were you going to do? Let Erin Solstice be the only one to cook it? Nonsense.

The hot food was satisfying. And it made Mrsha happy. She wished she could have eaten it with Ryoka. The City Runner had promised. But then Relc had been attacked and no one had been that hungry. Today though, she licked her bowl until Lyonette scolded her that a lady didnt do that.

Which meant ladies didnt get the delicious eggy juices and bits of rice on the bottom of their bowl. Horrible. Mrsha was unrepentant. And as orders flooded into the kitchen for the new dish and Erin taught Lyonette and Palt taught Ishkr and Drassi how to prepare the dishThe Wandering Inn was back to normal.

Hey, you! I know you! Youre one of the [Chefs] who steals my food!

Erin spotted a Drake wearing a hat and thick clothing trying to hide in a corner of the inn. The Drake jumped to his feet and she chased him with a spatula.

Out! Out! This is my dish! At least give me one day to make a profit, you jerks!

She chased away other notable [Cooks] shed seen before. But Erin knew theyd just get someone else to buy the dish for them. She sighed. But she was smiling.

Hm. Tastes like Dullahan cooking a bit. They trade with the archipelagos.

Jelaqua wasnt blown away by the foodmainly because it was from home. It was nostalgic, not new. She still wanted to share it with Maughin. But Seborn was all over the dish.

Finally, some good food.

The Drowned Man grumbled. Moore sighed; he had to wait until there was enough rice and ingredients to make a big bowl for him.

And the day continued. Ryoka Griffin was gone, but Erin Solstice remained. She felt wistful as she paused in throwing bits of dirt at the fleeing [Cooks]. She looked around.

I guess Id better help out too.

Ryoka Griffin had a quest. A big one. Throw the biggest party the world had ever seenfor the fae. She had told Erin about it. Not all the details. Or why that Grand Magus knew so much. Wellhe was a [Mage]. But she had asked, begged Erin for help.

The problem was that Erin didnt know how. She was touched that Ryoka had asked for help for the first time. But how was Erin supposed to find a noble [Lady]? Shed volunteered Lyonette at once, but apparently Terandrian [Princesses] were only frosting on the cake. Ryoka needed the real nobility.

Does Ilvriss count? UhPryde?

Erin thought. She didnt know. But she did know that Ryoka would need money. Cool things for her party. She had a location in mind.

Riverfarm. Apparently someone else from Earth was thereErin wondered if the door would go that far. Ryoka had said it was still out of range. Either way, though. Erin would be there when Ryoka needed help.

So that means money. Cool ideas. Likelike pool. Do faeries play pool? Chess?

Erin wasnt good at throwing parties. At leastother peoples parties. She was good at her thing. The young woman sat on the hill as a Hobgoblin exited the extra-large outhouse designed for Moore-sized guests. He liked the space.

Numbtongue had been borrowing one of the books that Pawn kept bringing Lyonette. He closed the book as he saw Erin sitting on the grass. The inn was bustling. This was a rare moment.

Hey.

The Hobgoblin sat down. Erin looked up and smiled.

Numbtongue, hey, hows the book going?

The Rise and Continued Success of the Walled Cities, by Krsysl Wordsmith. The Hobgoblin showed Erin the book. She made a face.

Oh, that one? Dont read anything by that Drake. According toeveryone, hes really biased.

The Hobgoblin knew that. The Drake kept touting how the Walled Cities had been all over the continent. But where were they now? It was still good reading.

Whats up?

As always, the [Bard] was sparing with words. Was that ironic or indicative of his class? Erin shrugged.

Justthinking. I want to help Ryoka. Shes off on an adventure. I feel like I should do something too, yknow?

She pounded a fist into a palm. Life was good right now. Her rate-of-catastrophes was way down, and that was great. But Ryoka had lit a spark in her.

Numbtongue just shrugged. He hadnt known Ryoka before this and she had been very leery of him at first. He had warmed to her, but she seemed like a Headscratcher-type. Always wondering over things and fretting. That was partly a compliment. And she knew a Dragon.

But the [Bard] was good at keeping secrets. He sat back and shooed away Reiss as Erin kept talking.

I just want to do something new. Maybemaybe I should sell more stuff.

I can enchant items. How long will you make me stay here?

Shh. Like what?

Erin Solstice frowned. She lowered her voice since Numbtongue seemed to think that was important.

I dunno. Maybemaybe my fire? Saliss and Xif both want it. So maybe its useful?

Hm. Fire any good?

Numbtongue stared at Reiss as Erin thought. The Goblin Lord gave him a glare. Numbtongue didnt want Reiss in his head. Both the ghost and Erin shrugged.

Well, lets see. I have angry, invisible fire. Glory fireand depressing fire. Um. Um. I made one thing out of the depressing fire.

Numbtongue nodded appreciatively. Free cold air in his rooms. He kept his lantern faced away and fed it with a bit of fuel and it cooled everything down. Erin had even worked up a little system with one of her stoves; she could now freeze water into blocks of ice if she put a bucket in the stove and left it there for an hour.

Magical fire is good.

Yeah. But it makes people sad. I cantuse that in other stuff, right? Imagine me selling that to adventurers? Get a Depressing Fire Lantern for cheap! Feel bad about killing monsters and the hopelessness of life while you try not to step onto a trap! Also, free cold air!

The Hobgoblin chuckled. He could think of a few good uses for that lantern. Shine it on an annoying team of Gold-ranks while they were hunting you and they might just curl into a ball and give up. But it wasnt marketable since Goblins didnt have much money, he agreed.

What else? Why magical things?

Erin was trying to call her happy fire. But that was the hardest fire to conjure because it was so pure. She broke off, looked up.

Oh. Its for Ryokas middle-of-the-summer party. The Solstice thing, you know? On my birthday. I think. My parents said it was a sign. Since yknow, my last name? But Im not sure it lines up exactly. There are more months. Time is weird here.

The year was longer than in her world. Numbtongue nodded. He vaguely wondered if he could find some gold and have Pyrite shape it into something for Erin. Mrsha had been easy.

So why magical things?

Oh, its for the fae. Frost faeries? Winter Sprites?

The Hobgoblin shrugged once more. He saw them now and thenvague balls of lights bringing snow. They never bothered Goblins.

Yeah. Yeah. They like magical stuff. I could do magical foodbut its such a pain.

Numbtongues ears perked up. Of course, he knew about the magical food. But Erin had run out of scale soup and her other rather noxious foods and hadnt made more.

You meaninvent more magical food? You can do that?

Erin gave him a distracted nod.

Yeah, but I havent tried making more in a while. Think I should?

The [Bard] stared at Erin. She looked up.

What?

You can makemagical food. Like potions. And you do not?

Numbtongue had to speak slowly to make sure he was getting this. Erin frowned.

Yeah.

Why not?

Eh. Its hard.

So?

The Human girl hesitated, put off by the intensity in Numbtongues voice.

Wellit takes money. Time. And no one likes eating my stuff. Even me. Its risky, yknow?

So?

She could make magical food and her objection was that it was too much of a pain? The former Redfang Warrior was offended. Erin hesitated.

W-well. I was busy. I mean, I always meant to try it again. Dont look at me like that. I meant to! Its justhey, why dont you help me experiment? Sometime this week? Im sure I can

The Hobgoblin folded his arms. Erin hesitated.

Um. Tomorrow? I need to get things ready and think about how to be magical

He said nothing. The [Innkeeper] wilted.

You know, I have an empty schedule.

That was how Numbtongue, Palt, and Erin found themselves outside, bubbling stuff in a pot and debating what constituted magical cooking. Palt had joined because of course he would. And they were outside because Lyonette had heard the words experiment and magic from Erins mouth and banned them at once.

I just dont know how it works. Its [Wondrous Fare]. Ive done a few good thingsI made this dish for the Winter Sprites once, but it was just intuition. This could be magical. What do you think?

Erin had altered one of her standing recipes. She had taken the element of heat and tried to infuse it into her cooking.

That meant a milk-and-butter base, to warm you up. Hot peppers, including the paste being sold in her new dishes. The element of heat, to Erin, was also represented in food you ate when you were cold. So shed put a tiny bit of chocolate in. And now she was tossing other spicy things into the pot, like some tubers.

Palt looked into the pot, already simmering with a half-dozen ingredients. The milk looked like it was curdling. He put a hand over his mouth.

Youthis is your process?

Yup. All intuition.

Please stop.

The Centaur said it as much to Numbtongue as Erin. The Hobgoblin was trying the recipe. It was hot. Edible, at least to him. He smacked his lips.

Wheres the magic?

Um. Usually I put something from Octavias shop in there. Maybe salamander skins? I think thats what we used last time.

Justskins?

Well, Ill probably boil them first.

At this point the [Illusionist] had to trot off for a second. He came back after a few minutes of Erin tossing Sages Grass into the pot. The worst part was that it was actually working.

Numbtongue was sweating profusely in the heat.

Hot soup.

Yeah. Yeah. This is magic! Heat soup!

It was disgusting. Even Numbtongue would have rather eaten something else. But the soup did warm you up. Not just from the peppers. Palt tasted the magic as he took one grudging sip. And a bit of salamander skin. He retched.

Dead gods. This is horrible!

And hed studied alchemy for one semester in Wistram. Erin shrugged.

Its a brew.

Its an insult to cooking is what it is! Even [Witches] cook better than this! And they use toad scrapings!

The Centaur snapped. Erin looked vaguely hurt, so he moderated his tone.

Im sorry. Its just thatdo you have a plan, Erin?

Nope.

The [Innkeeper] looked up innocently. Palt sighed.

I didnt think so. Even for cooking, Erin. You have to have a recipe. Not knowing anything and improvising is the hallmark of bad cooking. Even an idea helps. And this?

He waved at the curdled, burned mess that was putting some of the guests in the inn off their feed.

Its not magical. Youre adding something to it. I can tell.

Or ratherErin was allowing the inherent magic in her ingredients to combine in some way. She had a rare Skill. Palt wasnt the most up-to-date on Skills, but hed never heard of her cooking Skill. He went on.

Each Skill does something different. How does yours work, Erin?

She thought hard about it as Numbtongue dumped the pot into one of the outhouses and then tossed a jar of acid fly acid down too.

Hm. I think I need anelement. No, a theme.

That was how her cooking had always worked. She combined things of the sameidea together. And once she got started, it made more sense. Palt nodded.

In that casewhy dont we gather ingredients up and you choose a theme? Alsofor your base. Please dont use milk.

What, then?

The Centaur produced a cigar, took a puff. It was outside so Erin let it go. She was not judgy! Ryoka was justokay, maybe she judged a bit. But

Use water infused with Sages Grass. Thats a common alchemical trick. It doesnt affect the flavormuch. Youre making highly magical dishes, Erin. Dont use bases like milk. It seems to me youre using so many ingredients because they lack sheer magical force.

Hey, that makes sense! I was always asking Octavia what was like, the most magical. The thing is, there isnt much magical stuff.

Not highly magical. True.

Octavia wasnt a rich [Alchemist]. The Centaur reflected that was part of the problem. If Erin had complete access to Wistrams stockpiles for instance, what might she make?

Thirty minutes later, a small group clustered around a new pot. Numbtongue, Erin, Palt, and now, Octavia and Mrsha. They had all come outespecially because Octavia was interested and familiar with the process.

I can spare some of my ingredients. Just please dont go overboard.

The [Alchemist] was a lot more helpful than the first times theyd done this. Also, Erin was being deliberate. Octavia had brought her ingredients out, the kitchens goods had been placed on a blanket on the grassand she had pans, pots, and utensils.

Numbtongue had even brought out a number of his ingredients. Which were all rocks. Palt eyed some raw magicore and a handful of gems.

You mine these?

He addressed Numbtongue. The Hobgoblin shrugged. Gemstones were more plentiful in this world, but the small pile of gems of all colors was still impressive to Erin. She looked at them, oohing and ahhing.

I think Im getting some inspiration here.

Remember, think it out before you get started. How does a Sages Grass base sound?

Standard to me. Ill do it.

Octavia reached for the grass, but Palt grabbed her hand.

Sorry. But its Skill-based.

Oh. Right.

The [Alchemist]s eyes widened. Erin put the grass in the cauldron and poured in water. The Sages Grass was already minced. But it was her hands doing the mixing. Mrsha peered into the pot

Lyonette grabbed Mrsha and towed her off.

Oh no you dont, missy. Youre not getting near that.

The Gnoll girl complained silently. But Lyonette was predicting something. So were the guests, who were staring out the windows. They were taking bets on whether something exploded.

Lets see. Wow. Thats amazing.

Erin stared into the glowing red water. The Sages Grass was dissolving under the intense heat. And the glowing red grass had imparted the water a color she could only describe asmagical.

Palt and Octavia exchanged a glance as Numbtongue watched. He was taking notes in case Erin came up with something he could try making. Pyrite and Reiss were both interested.

Sages Grass doesnt dissolve that fast! Even my bases take a week to do that!

Octavia hissed at the Centaur. He nodded. Erin had a powerful Skill. The question waswhat did it do?

Theme. Yeah. Im getting it.

Erin closed her eyes. She had made Scale Soup with the idea of making a defensive layer. Shed put hard things into the soup. Now she thought of ither mushrooms for the faeevery recipe had a theme. Why hadnt she put that together before?

Perhaps because [Alchemists] had their recipes based off experimentation. But Erins Skillher magic was all about feeling. So she had to do it her way.

What do you want to create?

Palt asked Erin. Which was the sort of question that was hard to answer. Because if you didnt have a purposehow did you find it?

The young woman closed her eyes. What would bepowerful? More powerful than a Scale Soup, which was weaker than [Barkskin], even if a bit less costly?

Power. The kind she lacked. In her head, Erin saw the most powerful artifact she had ever held. Or had she? It had been just a dream.

But the young woman reached into her pocket and felt the coin.

I offer an umbrella made from the suns light. To bring day into blackest night.

She remembered holding the umbrella and feeling the suns light on her skin. So beautiful, so bright. The very sun itself, that no magic could copy.

To her, that was power. And yetErin Solstice shivered.

Tamaroth.

Go the opposite way. That was what she wanted. She looked into the glowing pot. And suddenlyshe knew.

Darkness.

Thats the theme?

Palt and Octavia looked up. Numbtongue saw Erins features firm. Her eyes flickered.

The fires wrong.

They looked at the magical fire Palt had conjured. Erin reached out as Palt cleared his throat.

If it should be less hot

The flames turned invisible. The Centaur froze. For a second, Erins face was wrathful. The flames of hatred werent hard to conjure. Hatred was easier than true happiness.

Something dark. To hide you fromeven the sun. I think I get it. I have to really want it. Because its there.

The [Innkeeper] could see it in her head, now. It wasnt just her ideas. It wasinstinct. She looked around.

What spoke to her of darkness, here? She walked down the lines of neatly arranged ingredients. Spotted three things.

Whats this?

Erin picked up a good amount of black liquid. Octavia started.

That? Thats ink from the Lurkersnatch fish. Its cheaper than octopus ink since you get them every spring.

Its good at hiding things. Thats what Im making. A hidingthing.

Erin spoke dreamily. Yes. The ingredients didnt matter. Nothey did, but it wasnt the recipe that mattered. That was how she differed from Octavia. [Alchemists] were all about the process. So long as Erin achieved the goalthe food worked.

How much do you

Palts mouth closed as Erin dumped the entire container of ink into the pot. Octavia closed her eyes.

Positive Octavia. Positive Octavia.

She muttered to herself. Numbtongue patted her on the shoulder. He offered her some of the leftover silver hed mined. Octavia brightened up. Palt eyed the Hobgoblin.

Can I have some?

No.

Erin was turning to the second ingredient. It was onyx. A few gems that Numbtongue had found.

This is also dark.

Its a gemstone. Can you eat rocks?

Palt looked nervously at Octavia and Numbtongue. Both nodded, casually. Pyrite would have loved to see this. For a momenta minuteNumbtongue became him.

Here. I can grind.

The Hobgoblin helped Erin as she found a mortar and pestle. He easily ground the rocks with his hands. Even chewed one up and spat it into a bowl. Palt gave Numbtongue a wide-eyed look. Erin nodded.

Good.

The ground-up onyx went into the pot. And alreadythe pot was dark. But still glowing.

I want this Skill.

Octavia muttered. It was justbypassing a lot of what she knew as alchemy. But Erin wasnt listening. She was following the idea in her head.

The third item was charcoal. Erin smashed it up and dumped a pound into the pot. Palt had to object here.

Oh come on. Thats not good for you.

I need something dark.

Erin muttered. She looked around. She hadwellit was like when shed made food for the faeries.

Part of it was silly. Childish. Like a girl pretending to make magic. But that belief was what made the magic in the first place. This would hide people.

One soup to rule them all. One soup to bring them together. And in the darkness blind them.

I think shes losing it.

Octavia muttered to Palt. Erin grinned. But that was just a joke. In truthshe frowned.

I dont think I want a soup.

The [Illusionist]s hand meeting his face was loud in the silence. Erin frowned.

I thinkIm imagining balls.

Balls?

The Centaur frowned. Erin nodded. She was imaginingit was so clear in her head.

Theyrepowdery. Like dough-balls. Small, but powdery. You roll them up and then you pop one into your mouth.

She was sure thats what it looked like. Octavia, Numbtongue, and Palt exchanged a glance. Erin looked sure, now.

Flour. Is there black flour?

Erin was hunting through the bags of ingredients. Palt cleared his throat.

Actually, there is. Theres a kind of wheat. Noelictus exports it.

The [Innkeeper]s head rose.

Yes. That. I need it.

Umwe could order some?

Octavia helplessly looked at the others. Erins face fell.

No flour?

She was sure she needed it. Octavia shook her head helplessly. Erin frowned.

Maybesome regular flour works? I need a lot of it. To make this thick. It cant be a soup. Thats how it can start, but

Distractedly, she began pouring in flour to the pot. Bags and bags of it. Palt looked concerned.

Theres surely enough ink in the pot to dye whatever you need

It has to be dark! Its a theme! The flour makes it too not-dark!

Erin snapped. She could see the recipe struggling to adapt. Not dark enough! She cursed, added some other powder.

Baking soda?

Octavia saw Erin pouring a lot in. the [Innkeeper] scowled at her brew. It was indeed turning grey, not entirely black. She had to adapt. This would beashy. Well, that worked.

I need some dust. Ash.

Potash? I have some.

Yeah. Yeah. Sookay. Were mixing white and black now. To get grey. This will be like dustclouds. Umum

The image changed in Erins head. She was imagining bread now. Bread, like dust. Her eyes snapped open.

Bread?

Oh come on.

Palt objected. The pot was full. But Erin looked at him and she seemed certain.

Bread works. Its changing, Palt. Wherere the eggs? We should add more flourwere making a dough, now. Hold on.

The mixture was too thick, practically dusty. But since Erin didnt have enough darknessshe looked around. Saw some water in a jug. Octavias eyes widened.

Erin, thats not w

She poured it into the pot before she heard Octavia. Erin saw the mixture change. It began to bubbleshe looked at Octavia. Something had gone wrong. She felt it. Now her image of the ash-bread was gone, as well as the shadow-powderballs.

Um. Octavia. What did I just add?

The [Alchemist] saw the pot bubbling up. She said one word.

Vinegar.

Numbtongue was already running with Palt. But it was too late. Erin backed up and

-

Mrsha the Experimental, grumpy at being left out of all the fun, was watching through the window. Lyonette had let her do that. She saw the four running for the door a second before the pot boiled up.

Vinegar and baking soda. It didnt quite explode. But the mixture, far lighter than it should have been, bubbled high into the air. Mrshas jaw dropped. And then she saw the mixture turn gaseous in the air. Partly gaseous.

A cloud dropped over the entire inn. Abruptly, all the light went out. The fireplaces werent lit. Inside the inn, there were shouts of confusion. Mrsha looked around wildly.

What happened?

It was that pot! Hah! You owe me five silver! I told you

The only light was from the kitchen. Awestruck, Mrsha looked around. In the darkness, Lyonette raised a hand.

Everyone stay where you are! [Light]!

The magic from the Sages Grass field boosted her spell. Multiple orbs of light emerged from the table, floors, wallsthe guests oohed and applauded. The [Princess] gave them a little pleased bow and then looked around.

Mrsha?

She sighed as she saw the Gnoll wagging her tail. Then Lyonette went to the window.

It was perfect blackness outside. Nothat wasnt quite true. The particles of blackness in the air were shifting. It was like the inn was engulfed in a cloud.

Its likea cloud spell. Erin made that?

Wonderingly, Montressa went to the windows. Mrsha heard a banging sound from the hallway. She turned as Palt, Numbtongue, Erin, and Octavia stumbled into the inn.

They werent actually dirtybut the dark cloud clung to them, as if the cloud were thick and physical. They were all coughing.

It sort of worked. I just need black flour. And umno vinegar and baking soda.

Erin looked around. Lyonette put her hands on her hips. But the inns patrons were excited. They rushed out the door, exclaiming and tripping into one another in the darkness.

I suppose as events go, thats not a bad one. But how long is this going to last?

Even the [Princess] had to concede that. Erin hesitated. She raised a finger and the answer sprung into her mind.

If the recipe had worked? Three hours.

Everyone looked at her. Mrsha leapt off her chair as Lyonette covered her face. Erin laughed, though. She had failed, but she was figuring out her Skill. She just neededblack flour, huh? She might also need a few other things. But she could see it. [Wondrous Fare]. It was telling her how to make magical foods.

Of coursethe cloud of darkness had a few other unintended side effects. Bird, sitting in his tower, called out after a while.

Hello? Who has turned the sky off? Hello?

This would make hunting birds harder. But not impossible. The [Hunter] waited for the batswhich he termed dark birds to come out.

Others were less sanguine about the affair. One of the [Guards] on patrol on the eastern wall saw the cloud appear. Instantly, the Gnoll shouted.

Hey! Get me a Street Runner for the Watch Captain! Its the inn!

He needed to say nothing more. The rest of the Watch groaned. The new Human recruits stared at the cloud of darkness as they trooped down the stairs, already calling for Zevara and preparing for an attack, generalized madness, or anything else in the world.

Zevara cursed and slowly reset a little marker on her desk before she grabbed her sword and rushed to lead a squad to investigate.

Days Since Crazy Human Incident: 0

And life had been going so well.

But it was all good. Really. It was just a failed experiment. The cloud did disperse after two hours. And Erin Solstice resolved to be more careful next time. But she could see both dishes in her head. Youd eat the black powderballs and spit a cloud. It would help. The ash bread? She wasnt sure what it did, but presumably it had another effect related to dust.

It would take time. But she would make new things. Numbtongue would see to that. He was already imagining how useful this would be. Make a cloud of thiseven the accidentthen shoot arrows or roll boulders into the trap.

It was just a day. Innocent. A little event. With no consequence but a bit of surprise and worry for some. Ohand one more thing.

It took them a while to notice. Lyonette was the first, because of her new instincts. But she had checked once and then looked away. And by the time she realized that a little, white Gnoll had used the cloud cover to escapeit was too late.

-

Mrsha was a good girl. She really was. She was being an adult. Most of the time. She wasnt childish like Ekirra. She had seen things. She could be responsible.

It was just that the adults never let her do anything by herself. And sometimes Mrsha wanted to be independent. Sosometimes she had to take opportunities like this.

The dark cloud stuck to Mrshas fur, making her giggle. She wanted to run about in it and sneak up on people lost in the cloud. But she had to take this moment to get away from the inn.

Bird had orders now and he would spot her almost every time she ran for it. She wouldnt get this chance again. So Mrsha ran out of the cloud and down the hill.

She was running towards the city. Mrsha saw that and immediately reversed, away from the squad of Liscors [Guards] led by Angry Zevara. That wasnt where she wanted to go.

Stealthily, using her Skills not to be noticed, Mrsha the Sneaking Sneak padded through tall grass. Rustling away from the inn. She had a destination in mind, and she was smart enough to stay away from suspicious spots where Shield Spiders might make their nests, or conspicuous boulders.

She knew she would get in trouble for this. But it had been a long time. So longand she was Mrsha the Great and Terrible. Mrsha the White. The great [Mage]! The hero who had made a compact with her brave alliance in a battle of history.

The Defenders of the Cave. Mrsha knew them now. She had, after all, watched The Hobbit. And so she had her wand, which was almost as good as a staff. She stood up on two legs and tottered towards the cave.

She needed a hat. But a wizardMrsha the Wizardly decided she wasnt late! She was right on time! She was always on time!

She should have brought Numbtongue. Or Erin, or Lyonette. But the cave was her special place. And the Healing Slime was afraid of strangers. Mrsha had tried to take it to the inntwicebut it had always rolled away. But shed convince it this time. The Defenders of the Cave awaited. Their sacred pact endured! The cave was as Mrsha had left it. And inside

Scuttling spiders milled about in chaos. The white Gnoll slowed, padding into the cave. She froze. They were clustered around large egg sacs. Webbing covered the ground and walls.

Desiccated, half-eaten corpses lay on the ground. Large, furry shapes. Fallen, devoured, torn by Shield Spider fangs. At the far end of the cave, a blockade of wood, sticks, and stones. Shield Spiders tore at it, and Mrsha heard the sound of tails desperately slapping the ground.

She had arrived too late. Daysperhaps weeks too late. The Shield Spiders clicked, uncertainly registering the intruder.

Food? Mrsha backed up, eyes wide. She could sense them with her [Druid]s senses. They radiated a single emotion, like the bees.

Hunger.Hungry. Hungryhungrystarvinghungryravenousfoodfoodhungryan overpowering rush of a single emotion. The Shield Spiders were hungry.

They had tripled in number since the last time shed been here. The summer had fed them. Too well; they had expanded and without the other peacekeeper of the caves, the Healing Slimethe compact had fallen apart.

The Fortress Beavers and Shield Spiders had gone to war. And one had won. Mrsha saw a tide of spiders scuttling at her. She froze

And a large Shield Spider clicked. It blocked the starving younglings. It knew her.

The Shield Spider was one of the original members of the nests. It had fought the Crelers. And something in itrecognized Mrsha. The Shield Spiders drew back. Mrsha stared up.

This Shield Spider was twice her height now. A patriarch of the nest. She shook as it clicked over to her, eight legs moving on the bare stone.

What had happened? She could feel the hunger in the giant Shield Spider as it regarded her. Mrsha looked around, desperately. The Fortress Beaversand there had been so manywere dead.

Where was Healing Slime? Had it run away? Died? She looked at the Shield Spider, asking a desperate question.

It had no answers. Onlyvague shapes. Dark, flaming eyes in the cave. Death. Fire. Death. Magic. No more slime.

And then hunger. Mrsha knew the rest. She looked at the Shield Spider. Despairingly.

Why? How could you do this? They were your friends. She wanted to ask the Spider. But she had no words.

And no words would have mattered. The giant spider was a creature. It wanted to live, first. Peoplepeople might starve rather than turn on each other. But animals were practical. The nest was starving. The Shield Spiders would eat each other without food. Or expand. This brood would expand, soon. The cave would become another nest.

After they killed the last of their food. Mrsha broke out of her horror. She heard a sound.

Slapping tails. Weak rustling. She looked past the nests. And saw the barricade of wood. A Fortress Beaver dam.

Some were alive. Mrshas eyes opened wide. The Fortress Beavers had retreated. Built their famous fortresses to hold the spiders out. She could sense them. Hiding, weak from lack of food and wounds. But they were alive.

She stepped forwards. The giant Shield Spider barred her way. It was getting hungrier. Mrsha was food. It wanted her to leave. Leave, before the lesser spiders lost control and attacked her.

But Mrshathe white Gnoll hesitated. She was Mrsha the Great and Terrible. Noshe was Mrsha the Great Wizard

No. She was just Mrsha. The great adventure was done. It had ended with pettiness. With her absence. See how the mortal, short-lived races forgot. They turned on each other so quickly.

She wept for them. But she would not run twice.

In the opening of the cave, the Gnoll lifted her wand. And the tip shone with light. The Shield Spiders rustled. The ones from the nest outside began to creep upwards.

But the [Druid] was wrathful. Her eyes blazed.

Fools! You fools! Shame on you all!

She shouted, though she had no words. The Shield Spiders looked upon her. The White Druid of the Inn aimed her wand at the oldest of the Shield Spiders. The Shield Spider King.

A spell lashed from her wand. It struck the Shield Spider in one of its many eyes. An arrow of thorns sent the Shield Spider reeling back, bleeding. Mrshas other paw produced a sharp, deadly thorn. She saw the Shield Spider recoilthen advance.

The Fortress Beavers stirred. They remembered. But there was one of Mrsha and many Spiders. So few beavers. The Gnoll was backing up as the Shield Spiders advanced. But they came from behind as well. She was surrounded.

The Gnoll reached for something at her side. She had changed as well. The Shield Spiders saw her raise something to her lips. Mrsha inhaled.

And then blew on the horn. The sound echoed in the cave, making the Shield Spiders flinch. The blaring horn echoed. Louder. Mrsha slashed at a Shield Spider, cutting the little thing in half. The Gnoll backed up, dropping the horn back to hang at her side. She whirled.

Grass ensnared another large Shield Spider coming up on her from behind. The Gnoll looked around. The largest Shield Spider advanced, mandibles wide. It scuttled at her and Mrsha crouched.

The air buzzed. A figure hurtled out of the skies. A giant, flaming bee landed on the Shield Spiders face and a jagged stinger impaled the Shield Spiders face.

Apista! The bee flew around Mrsha as it stung, her stinger going through the Shield Spiders armor. As the giant Shield Spider recoiled, Mrsha looked up. Apista flew around her as the Shield Spiders hesitated, afraid of the fire.

Now it was two versus hundreds. Mrsha bared her teeth in a silent snarl. She heard a sound.

The Fortress Beavers were breaking down their fortress. Sallying forth in one last stand. Large adults smashed into the Shield Spiders from the rear, ignoring the biting fangs and sharp legs. Their fur, torn by injuries, ignored the bites as they furiously bit, pounded the spiders with their tails.

A third time the horn blew. Mrsha cast another [Thorn Arrow] spell and hit a spider. That broke the stalemate. They rolled forwards and Mrsha braced to run, to open a window for the beavers to escape. The largest Shield Spider rushed at her. Mrsha turnedand saw a group of spiders had snuck up on her, sealing the entrance! Apista bared her stinger, desperately

The Shield Spiders heard a roar. It sounded like the hills had come alive. The ones near the caves entrance looked up. They saw a figure blocking the light.

Moore stomped. His foot crushed the first Shield Spider and he kicked the second one into pieces against the wall. The half-Giant ran past Mrsha and stormed into the Shield Spiders, covered in thorns. He crushed them as the Shield Spiders recoiled.

And behind himNumbtongue cursed. He drew his sword.

Pyrite.

The [Chieftain] barreled into the cave after the half-Giant. He cut the oldest Shield Spider in half. The pair of them had noticed Mrshas absence almost immediately after Lyonette. And both knew Mrsha.

Stay back!

Moore shouted as he reached a hand out. His staff laid around left and right, smashing the smaller spiders as it had when he had breached the giant nest in the dungeon. Pyrite backed up, kicking spiders and downing Octavias potions. He thrust one at MrshaBarkskin.

The Gnoll drank it. But the two were focused on protecting her. She saw the Fortress Beavers in the back of the cave. They were being overwhelmed. And the two didnt see them!

So Mrsha blew her horn. Then she raised her wand and charged. Numbtongue and Moore cursed and went after her. Apista struck from above. Mrsha charged through the traitorous Shield Spiders. She saw a Fortress Beaver, twice her size, lying on the ground. Guarding the remaindera scant eight. Mrsha dove for themand a wall of thorns encircled her.

Halfseekers, to me! Jelaqua! Seborn! Ulinde! Get your damn bodies over here!

Moore roared. His voice was as loud as Mrshas horn. The others, who had been searching from the inn, heard the roar in the distance. They turned.

The Shield Spiders had no chance. Not even against the Hobgoblin and half-Giant, in truth. But as Jelaqua charged into the fray, flail spinning and Seborn appeared out of Moores shadowa Selphid leapt into the nest and cast [Fireball] twice.

Ulinde pulled herself out of the nest as the entire place exploded. The rest of the Shield Spiders were dealt with.

Mrsha nursed two large bites on her body. Apista had taken a cut on her body and one of her wings was wrinkled. But when the wall of thorns went down, she was holding a baby Fortress Beaver, its fur covered with blood.

Three adults remained. Five little beavers drew back around Mrsha as the panting adults stared at her. They stared as Mrsha anxiously poured healing potion over the living beavers. She lifted one up as Numbtongue opened his mouth to shout. He stared at the beaver. And remembered Mrshas class and closed his mouth.

-

What possessed you?

Lyonette was not so understanding. Mrsha was beyond in trouble. Moore was angry too. And everyone was more nervous of that.

Dont ever do that again.

He picked up Mrsha. Wide-eyed, she nodded. The Shield Spiders hadnt even gone through her skin. The half-Giant passed a hand over his facethen saw the beavers.

I dont understand it. How did she know there were beavers in the cave? Why did she?

Erin Solstice remembered Mrshas class as Numbtongue whispered in her ear. They looked at Mrsha. She was holding the shivering Fortress Beavers. And her expression wasguilty. Sorrowful.

It was an adults bitter expression of failure. Tears in her eyes, Mrsha held up the beavers. She could not explain the healing slime, or the pact against the Crelers. Not fully. Not now.

As I recallwe found beavers in that cave back when Mrsha brought that Creler egg to the inn.

Jelaqua muttered. The others looked at her and nodded, slowly.

Mrsha? Are these your friends?

The little Gnoll nodded to Erin. She wiped her tears and the eight Fortress Beavers hid behind Mrsha, staring at the strange adults. Erin looked at the beavers. Then nodded.

You did rescue them. But you mustnt take risks. Youre in big trouble, you know that?

Yes. Mrsha nodded. But it had to be done. Erin looked at the beavers.

What do we do with them?

They like living in forests. These ones must have migrated south. The wrong way. Theyll just run into the Blood Fields. Why not let em loose around Celum?

Jelaqua suggested. The others agreed tiredly. But Mrsha shook her head. She clung to the beavers and they surrounded her protectively as the adults tried to take them away. They had big, sharp teeth. Erin blew out her cheeks.

Mrsha! Theyre animals. They have to go somewhere.

She had failed them once. Mrsha shook her head again and again. She had to protect them. They were hercharges. She edged towards the inn.

Mrsha. Mrsha? What are you

The doorway opened for her at once. The adults stared as the white Gnoll backed up. The Fortress Beavers stared too. But this new land was verdant. There was a pond. Water. Fish, even. And many plants.

No predators. A safe land. A promised land. They looked at Mrsha. She nodded.

Theyll eat the trees!

Lyonette protested in horror. But Erin held up a hand.

Theres only eight.

Erin, theyre Fortress Beavers.

We can always plant more trees. Mrsha. Are you sure you have to do this?

Erin knelt down. Mrsha nodded slowly. The Fortress Beavers looked at her. One was already padding towards the pond and the fish were scattering. Erin took a deep breath. The others looked at her. Lyonette was incredulous. Moore almost approving.

Its a better pet than a bee, right?

Apista landed on her head and fanned her wings. Mrsha had to promise to do many things. And if the beavers ate the sacred chocolate tree or the sprouts of the new Blue Fruit Treeswell, they listened to her.

And as that [Druid] slept that night, the [Garden of Sanctuary] gained another life form. The fish in the ponds were joined by a small colony of Fortress Beavers, who were already making a dam on one edge of the pond.

Lyonette was exasperated. Numbtongue vaguely approvingthey could be emergency rations in times of siegeand the others bemused and worried about Mrshas tendency to get in trouble. But the [Druid] knew this was right. She slept, wondering where the little slime had gone.

[Druid Level 8!]

[Natural Allies: Fortress Beavers]

[Natural Gift: Fur of the Fortress form obtained!]

Mrshas eyes opened wide. She sat up in bed. Lyonette du Marquin opened her eyes and saw a huge, shaggy furry beast sitting on her chest. Fur like armor.

She screamed. Mrsha didnt get dessert for two weeks.

-

Those were small tales. Little events. Sometimes with lasting consequences. And Mrshalike Ryoka was learning about herself, or Erin about her Skillswas learning about her class.

Intuition came well to [Druids]. But she could have used a teacher. Because then she would have known that the power she had came from no books, but nature. And her allies in nature mattered.

Fur like a fortress was just the start. There was far more you could gain. But you couldnt do it just by leveling. It was a compact with nature, like [Witches].

And that power could be used to protect or destroy. It depended on the [Druid].

He sensed the intruder coming unwelcome. A foreign power. Coming unannounced. He grew. Nalthaliarstrelous left his mortal, Human shape behind and grew taller.

The vast rows of hedges in his overgrown garden betrayed a hulking figure. Envenomed claws. Bestial teeth. Eyes which glowed as he moved to war. He roared as the intruder turned his head. Nalthaliarstrelous opened his mouth of layered teeth

And froze. The intruder stared at the [Druid] without fear. The [Druid]s wild form faltered. And thenhe turned back into a Human man. Naked, much to the objection of the [Maids] and [Servants] flooding out of the mansion to do battle.

They saw Nalthaliarstrelous bow. He pressed his forehead to the ground as the old, half-Elven figure passed them by. Magnolia Reinharts servants froze. They recognized this person. They hid the weapons theyd drawn behind their backs.

He never does that for me.

Magnolia Reinhart stood in the doors of her mansion. She was beaming with unadulterated pleasure as she stared at the respectful [Druid].

Grand Mage EldavinTeriarchharrumphed as he walked towards the doors. He looked at Ressa. She nodded to him.

He is respectful. I could wish the same of you, brat.

Magnolia laughed. She curtseyed deeply, almost a mockery of subservience. The Dragon glowered. But when the [Lady] straightenedshe looked at Teriarch.

It has been a while since you left your cave.

A little while.

He ducked his head, murmuring. Magnolia smiled.

Come in, then. We have a lot to catch up on.

I suppose so.

The [Lady] turned. She breathed in, and smiled. It had been too long. She had developed lines since they had last seen each other outside his cave. She smiled, even so. And then hid the other emotions behind a single, half-taunting line.

Come in, old man. Lets have some tea.

The last meeting was also expected and unexpected. The first to see her was a skeleton sweeping the floor. He didnt need to do this. But sometimesmore often nowhe remembered the times he had been a [Barmaid].

Longingly, now. The skeleton looked up, flinching at the sound as the doors opened. If it was one of the Chosenhe would run away. A little, trembling slime hid as well.

Children stalked this castle made of black stone. They laughed, leveled. Learned. But children could bemonstrous.

Yet, this was no child. She was old. And as her eyes alighted on him, the skeleton froze. And fled. He was beginning to understand danger, now. He had lost his eternal regeneration. And he feared those eyes.

Ringed eyes. Glowing orange. A vast hat. Dark blue robes. The [Witch] paused for a moment. And listened.

The clash of swords. In a courtyard, which had been long unused, Venitra and Kerash dueled. The Gnoll and bone woman fought. They had never trained before this. Nowit was a competition. And the reward?

I am a Level 8 [Warrior]!

The Gnoll roared. His ability to level had been granted so recently. But he and Venitra were relentless. And the undead were only allowed to spar and practice for now. But they were tireless.

Venitras face contorted in displeasure. She had fallen behind. The flames in her eyes burned as she advanced, attacking the Gnoll. They cut each other mercilessly; their bodies could be repaired. And that was only an excuse to see their master.

They never saw the face poking around a corner, staring at them. The [Witch] tapped her lips. She walked through the castle. Poking about.

The master of this place knew she was here already. But he was sitting. Speaking with a rotting woman, a zombie made of plague.

A [Lady] acts for the good of her subjects, Bea. If you would take that classyou must learn the ways of the living.

If you wish me to, master.

The plague zombie was petulant. Bea sat there, dressed beautifully, but unsure of why she had to learn mortal etiquette. And the Necromancer sighed, but fondly.

It is what you wish, Bea. You are the first of the true undead. You must choose to be a [Lady].

If you want me to, master.

Bea

His voice was so gentle. So patient. The four living Chosen rejoiced in it. Welltechnically you could argue there were five unique undead in the castle. But they hated the fifth. He was wisely out of sight. Not that they were allowed to punish him in front of their Master.

Master, why did you remove all the spells from my head? I cannot cast magic.

Ijvani whined. Azkerash looked at her as she labored over a beginners book.

Levels come from adversity, Ijvani. What I gave you by grace you must earn. We will spend as long as it takes to make a proper [Mage] out of you. Be it yearsI will instruct you piece by piece.

She shivered in delight at the promise, and forgot her dislike of studying. The Necromancer, Azkerash, smiled at them.

His children. Oh yes, the world was changed. Then he looked up.

Ah. Our guest is here. My Chosen, attend me. And be your politest. This being tolerates no disrespect. And she is far older than I.

They met in the ruined throne room. He stood in front of the dais where once a throne might have been. She stopped there, surveying the ruined room. The Chosen stood behind their master, curious. Dismissive.

Which was a mistake. Azkerash inclined his head in a small bow.

Spider of Terandria. We meet again.

A third time. Portentous.

That was all she said. She wasdifferent. Azkerash had felt it in her reply. He narrowed his eyes, appraising her from afar.

Some of her protectionsnomost of them were gone. The others were weaker. What had happened?

My daughter. I was hunted.

The Stitch Witch replied to the [Necromancer]s fragmented thoughts. He jolted. His robeswhich looked to be sewn of midnight, rustled as he glanced at her. They were her garments. He was awarethat would be an issue if they came to strife.

But that was not his intent. The man who had once been Archmage Chandler smiled thinly.

I heard. I congratulate you on your survival.

Does one congratulate the rock for existing?

The [Witch] did not smile. She tilted her head, regarding the Chosen. Then she looked up at Azkerash.

The first time we met as enemies. The second I did you a favor. By right, this time the favor is to me. So I have come at your invitation.

The [Necromancer] nodded. [Witches] had their ways. He vividly recalled their first meeting.

Before the legend of the [Necromancer] had begun, Belavierr was one of Terandrias nightmares. And the Undying Shield of Calanfer had challenged her.

If there had been a winnerit was she for escaping. The second time, he had been dead. And she had made him a gift, to be called as a favor. He was no fool. Belavierrs favors were like a poison. But he hadnt cared then. Now?

It will be mutually beneficial. Our alliance, should you choose to take it. I have made a discovery that will change this world. I offer you an opportunity, Belavierr the Stitch Witch.

Her eyes glowed in the darkness. She knew. She could read created things like books. Azkerash made no mention of Pisces, though it burned him to steal work that wasnt his. But she would use that information. And death would be a mercy for the young [Necromancer] if Belavierr desired the secrets for herself.

Curious. But not new. Fools of old made things with sentience. I liberated them and watched them kill their masters.

The Spiders head twisted left and right as she eyed the Chosen. Azkerash nodded.

Stringfolk. I am aware of history, Belavierr. Neverthelessthese are not my slaves. They will be my children.

Another word for slave for some.

She laughed at him. The [Necromancer]s jaw clenched with unexpected emotion. He nearly let the emotion diethen embraced it.

If you come to my place of power to insult me, BelavierrI call my Chosen my children. Insult them again at your peril.

The two looked at each other. And the Chosen stirred. The undead in the castle moved. A single step. Belavierrs eyes flicked around the room. Two types of magic clashed. He could feel her dissecting the death magic around her, drawing it into threads in preparation for combat.

The Necromancer was under no illusions. Fear was a foreign emotion to the Stitch Witch. Like life was distant for himbut she was far more ancient.

And yetsomething had revealed her mortal soul. After a second, she nodded.

I have a daughter already. What will you offer me, Peril Chandler?

That surprised Azkerash. It was no apology, but even so. Slowly, the Necromancer of Terandria stepped back. He spread one robed arm.

I offer you the protection and secrecy of my place, Belavierr. As long as you wish it. I offer you my resources, and my power. And I crave your power in an alliance. To create. Walk this castle and the forest as you wish. My hospitality is yours.

The two immortals locked gazes. One, black eyes with white pupils. The other, ringed layers of immortality, shining orange. After a moment, Belavierr nodded. And smiled.

I will stay here awhile. We may strike a bargain.

Little meetings.

(Im planning on taking my monthly week-long break after next chapter. I think. Ill let you know the details next chapter!)

Authors Note: And thats about it. This chapter comes before the side-story chapter which will probably be the next one. And its short! Or rather, a proper length.

Yeahyeah. Writing 30,000 words is a lot of work. Well, even 21,000 is a lot. But this still feels shortI should probably work on that perception.

Anyways, reunions end and people get back to work. And other people meet. Does this chapter lack much plot? Or do you enjoy smaller little stories? I think it suits this narrative at least, and its good in between the action. Sometimes you just get a chapter with nothinghappeninghm. I dont think Ive ever written a truly nothing happens chapter. But this is as close as I get.

I have one piece of art for you today: Enuryn the [Naturalist] has done it again! Todays art is a catalogue of magical weaponry and artifacts used by the Horns of Hammerad! Look at it! Marvel! And enjoy! We will see what Hedault thinks in time, but there is more story to enjoy. So many perspectivesbut thats why this is a web serial. Thanks for /enuryn

Equipment Catalogue by Enuryn!

(Full-size Version)