The Wandering Inn

Book 7: Chapter 29: B

Book 7: Chapter 29: B

(The Last Tide graphic novel will be coming out in August! More details in the Authors Note below and on the page here. Also, the author is on break until June 23^rd for Patreons, the 27th for Public readers!)

Wistram Academy had endured since time immemorial. It had been occupied, knelt to foreign kingdoms, put under siegebut still, the academy remained. And it was now known as an independent power.

The isolated, but not unconnected home of [Mages] the world over. Some said the premier school of magic and while there were dissentersWistram was the name you thought of.

At the moment, it was also considered a shadow of its former gloryat least, to those who could remember what that glory had been. And there were few left.

Wistram was still the largest mage-school in the world. Which spoke, perhaps, to the decline of magic everywhere. After all, as Wistram waned, so too did [Mages]. Because Wistrams graduates became the teachers, protectors, soldiers, and professionals across the world.

That was the fault of Archmage Zelkyr, who had created his test. The Golems he had left still served Wistram faithfully. And it had only been about two hundred years since the decline. Plenty of time to recoup.

In factthat was happening. Wistram Academy had a secret. It had many secrets; the [Mages] traded in them like a second currency. But the largest one, the thing that was changing the academy at this moment was this:

There was a second world. Earth. A land of technology and no magic. An entire planet, filled with knowledge and ideas and nations. All Humans, apparently.

It was Wistrams grand secret. They had collected the children of Earth, who had been sent to their world. They were trying to keep it secret; even now, [Mages] were receiving orders or polite requests to return home. Half of Wistrams Archmages didnt even know the secret or if they didit had not come from within the academy.

The Earthers, as they were knownwere gathered in Wistram. Found, or uncovered and brought here to be safe. After allthey possessed important knowledge. And the academy thought of itself as an appropriate gatekeeper for said knowledge.

Even now, the greatest minds gathered, to learn Earths mysteries. Wise men and women of each species listened and discussed these seeds of new understanding, that they might create something the likes of which neither world had ever seen.

Well. That is what they said. The truth looked a bit different to Aaron.

-

Space. The final frontier. The backdrop was made of black canvas dotted with stars. Alsoan image of the Earth, drawn into a solar system with the ellipses illustrating the orbit of planets around the sun. A solar system.

It was currently lying on the floor. The carefully-painted canvas was dented where the young woman had tossed it. The [Mages] slowly got up; theyd dodged the diagram as shed thrown it at them.

The world is round. All of you can go to hell. Its round and I can prove it!

Elena snapped. She raised the pointing stick like the wrath of science and a few of the audience near the front backed up as she swished it.

Miss Elenaplease. Were all for academicerknowledge, but lets stick to the facts, please. Not conjecture.

A [Mage] called out from the front. He had a huge, brown, bushy beard and liked to stroke it. But he wasnt old or distinguished enough to make it work and it rather looked like he had an aggressively fat brown raccoon stuck under his chin that he was stroking.

Elena pointed the stick at him.

Shut up. The world is round. Thats not a question for debate. Its science. Fact! Weve been to space!

The [Mages] muttered amongst themselves. A few of them glanced at the diagram of space dismissively. And a young man slowly raised his head.

Aaron Vanwell, known to many as Blackmage, wasnt learning anything new here. Or ratherhe was learning Elena had a strong throwing arm and a temper almost as bad as Caras. But hed agreed to sit in on the lectures as amediator.

Excuse me! Silence in the audience until Miss Elena is finished her presentation. Miss Elenaplease continue.

An authoritative voice rang out. A half-Elf [Mage], a member of Wistrams Council and a powerful [Mage] in her own right, Teura, a member of the Centrists under Archmage Feor, glared about until the [Mages] were quiet.

There were about sixty in the room. And they had all fought for the honor to be here, despite their disparaging sniffs and muttering. Not all [Mages] could attend these Earth-lectures; students were absolutely banned. But those trusted fewlargely Centrists, but Revivalists and other factions as wellwere listening as Elena pointed at another diagram.

This is Earth.

They squinted at the round planet, showing several sides; Elena had not just drawn one aspect, but the globe from multiple angles. And created a modern map, showing the world in full.

It was well done and Aaron could see shed worked hard on it the entire week with the help of an [Artist]. But Elena was close to throwing it again and a [Mage] in the front muttered a shield spell.

Why is it a circle? It makes no sense! That has to be wrong, Miss. Look! Youd fall off the bottom.

One of the [Mages] looked affronted as she peered at the picture. She had oddly large eyes, and she was a Drake. She wore spectacles to keep her eyes nearsighted; she was a [Scrier], from the Scriptel faction. Bookworms, essentially. Elena sighed.

It is what the Earth would look like from afar, Miss [Mage]. You seeas Ive been explaining, the earth is round. And so is your planet.

More dissent. Her eyebrow switched.

No, no, shut up. Its round and I can prove it. This is the full scale of the planet. We cant see it because for our intents and purposes, everything looks flat. Its about perspective. Cant you understand that? Even a bird cant understand what a mountain looks like.

Excuse me, I resent that!

A Garuda huffily folded his wing-arms. Elena stared at him and sighed.

Sorry. Let me go from the beginning. There are multiple proofs for the world being round. Here is the first one. Its the theory of light and shadows. These are illustrations of the moons from your world. Both of them. See how the light is moving across them?

She produced another canvas and knocked the other one out of the way. The [Mages] stared at the phases of both of this worlds moons. Aaron nodded approvingly; hed suggested that. Elena looked at him as if to say its your fault I have to deal with these flat-earthers, and went on.

See how the shadows move across the moons? In a curve. That indicates the moons arent flatdiscs in the sky, but that the sun is moving across a rounded body, hence the curve. Now, I know you could say that the moons are high up in the sky and we cant prove that. But if youll allow me?

She produced an orange. Every eye fell on it as Elena raised a magical wand.

[Light].

Her command of the magic was weak since shed begun learning only recently, but the spell was elementary. The ball of light shone brightly, and the Drake with spectacles shaded her eyes. But everyone saw the shadow on the orange.

Curved.

One of the [Mages] muttered reluctantly. Aaron turned and saw a Minotaur, rather slim and unfit by his race standards, which meant that he was still huge, writing down notes. A few others nodded.

But thats an orange. Miss, the moons arent so similar. We cant assume theyre rounded. We just see them from afar.

Mage Rievan of the Libertarians pointed out with a slight sneer. Elena glared at him.

I have more proof. Look. The world is round, but so vast that we cannot see from our perspective how round it is. And yetthere are more examples of how it is round. Consider thisa shadow should be the same length everywhere, yes?

The [Mages] looked at each other. Some shrugged; they had never given the idea much thought. Elena went on.

If the world were flat, we could assume that shadows would remain constant. However, this is not the case. Here are two shadows, measured at the academy and another at a Mages Guild in Baleros. Both measure the same object; a two-meter tall stick. Thatsabout six feet. But see how they differ? The [Mages] retook the measurements multiple times, and yet no shadow is the same length.

She had two numbers on the board and more figures from other spots around the world. Elena turned to her audience. After a moment, the bearded man raised a hand.

So what? Theyre just shadows. That doesnt prove anything. This is all circumstantial, Miss Elena.

The other [Mages] nodded. Aaron closed his eyes and Elena grabbed the canvas to throw it. They were unconvinced. A few [Mages] just blinked at the numbers and then left the room to see the presentation on cooking, or do something else. Elenas brow furrowed deeper.

And yet, it was Teura who clapped her hands briskly.

Archmage Feor was quite impressed with the results, Magus Telim. There is a factual understanding behind the shadow-theory.

And yet, not one we can see with our eyes. High Mage Teura, I respectfully submit that we cannot believeaan innocent tale like this! Im sure the people of Earth believe that their world is round. But there is a fundamental flaw in Miss Elenas presentation.

The man clasped his hands over his belly. He pointed at the first diagram of the solar system.

Miss Elena, you claim our world revolves around the sun, along with other celestial bodies. Butthat cannot be. For, under your theory, the earth is constantly rotatinglike some childs spinning top.

Here he chuckled, and a few of other [Mages] joined in. Elena turned red.

We are!

Telim waved this away. He was middle-aged, in his late fifties at least. His brown beard was a symbol of his good hairit might have been dyed.

Yes, yes, and tilting so that each axis is exposed to the sun and thus creating seasons. In your world, this theory makes sense. But why in our world does winter come to all continents at once? By rights, we should enjoy winter in Terandria while Baleros is hot. But that is not so. Cold is brought by the Winter Sprites, not some event of sunlight so forth.

That stumped Elena for a moment. She hadnt thought of that, and nor had Aaron. The young man watched Elena thinking for a moment. She slowly replied.

Idont know that. That might be amagical effect. But I can prove the earth is round. ListenI have a third proof. Its about height.

The [Mages] saw Elena drag another canvas up onto the easel and point to it.

If you stand on a cliff, you can see farther than you can on the ground into the distance.

Yes, because youre standing on a cliff.

A Selphid snorted. The others tittered and Elena glared. They fell silent as she tried to explain.

No! If the world were flat, it wouldnt work like that. Youd be able to see the same distance because without curvature

Nonsense! Thats not how it works! Height is height. Thats why we see further. Your logic is all wrong!

A Garuda called out, his feathers ruffled. Elena pointed at him.

Shut up! Didnt you hear me talk about gravity? You know that part is correct!

Shes right there. Gravity comes from all objects. Mass is gravity.

A Centaur frowned thoughtfully. The Garuda glared at him.,

Maybe about that. But how does this Human explain the end of the world?

By saying its not the end of the world!

Elena shot back. The Garuda just shook his head and turned around.

You have not looked upon the abyss that lies at the end of the sea, Miss Elena. Nor seen The Last Tide, rushing into oblivion. That is the end of all things. So long as that exists, I could never believe the earth is round.

Maybe its just a deep hole? Look, you cant have a flat earth. Or else wed allhow would gravity work? Surely wed be able to tunnel into the other side and fall! None of those things exist. Listen

Elena wavered. But she had lost her audience. Most left the room set up for her lecture, shaking their heads. A few remained, asking pointed and interested questions.

A few believed. The Centaur who knew about gravity, a Lizardgirl who couldnt have been more than fourteen but who was definitely an accredited [Mage], a frowning group of half-Elves who were part of the Centristsall asked about more proofs of Elenas world.

We have satellites orbiting our world. They hang in space. Space is devoid of gravityor rather, we are outside of the Earths pull and atmosphere so the effect is barely noticeable. It is possible to leave this world and we would see it as round. However, the ability to do that isdifficult.

Exceedingly so. Even a [Flight] spell sees the [Mages] fall out of the sky, suffocate, or simply find themselves unable to fly higher.

Ah! Thats because of atmosphere. You see, it thins?

Elena brightened up as Aaron fidgeted. The remaining [Mages], less than a dozen, quizzed the young woman.

But why is the [Flight] spell unable to go higher? It is magical, not limited by atmosphere.

Idont know. Maybe magic only works in the atmosphere? Or the flight spell needs air?

The [Mages] muttered. Three more left, shaking their heads. Elena kept talking to the others. But her lecture only lasted twelve more minutes.

Aaron was helping himself to some beef wellington, or Wistrams version of it, which was an appetizer if you could believe it or not. There were also chips and dip, any number of cheeses

Wistram did not mess about when it came to food. Aaron felt certain hed gained weight. But casting spells also helped him shed calories like no ones business so it evened out. He saw Elena stalking towards him, her presentation done.

Oh my god. I want to kill them all.

She muttered at Aaron and grabbed an entire bowl of guacamole and fried chips. He glanced sideways at her as Elena ate savagely.

I thought it was good

Hah. I didnt even get to the math! They dont want to listen! If they cant see it, they think it doesnt exist! Like electricityall the [Aeromancers] and other [Mages] were convinced you couldnt make electricity or store it without magic. But then you invented a battery and they fell over themselves saying they knew it all along.

Oh. Yeah. Well, I didnt know how to make one until George and Eun helped me make it.

The young woman shook her head. Aaron couldnt help but keep glancing sideways at her.

Elena was stunning. And in a world where anyone could use an illusion spell, that mattered. She wasa [Beautician].

A job from her world, but her class in this one. Elena had graduated from a university in Greece in a two-year program. She was older than Aaron by nearly half a decade. And she was a member of the Centrists faction.

Or rather, an asset. Teura cleared her throat as she approached Elena stuffing her mouth.

Miss Elena, the presentation is over. Allow us to escort you back to your area.

She glanced at Aaron, extremely displeased. He winced; Teura still held a grudge from when hed been under her authority and gave her the slip. He was a member, or again, an asset of the Revivalists. And the Centrist and Revivalists often clashed.

Ill go after I see the other projects, Teura. Is that alright?

Elena turned her head and gave the half-Elf a smile. Teura hesitatedbut she was under orders.

Of course.

She tried to smile and incline her head. Elena was one of seven young people from Earth in the Centrist factions grasp. And while they could limit their interaction with other factionsthere was only so far the Earthers would be pushed. Elena was especially stubborn and the [Mages] were being cooperative rather than pushy.

TooElena was also a lot better at subtly influencing people than Aaron. She glanced at him as Teura stepped back, hovering about awkwardly.

I spent one week working on this presentation. I doubt Ill do it again if all I get is skepticism.

She didnt raise her voice, but out of the corner of his eye, Aaron saw Teura wince. She pursed her lips and he saw Elena wink at him. By now, they were accustomed to speaking while knowing they were being listened to.

Lets check on the other projects. I think Saif is doing his battle-games.

She nodded and took another fistful of chips. As she did, Aaron saw her check her pocket.

Damn. Im low on gold. Spot me a tip?

For who?

She gave him a look.

The Golems. Obviously.

Aaron hesitated. But then he dug in one pocket and produced a gold coin. Elena grabbed it.

Thanks. Ill pay you back.

She had as much of the refreshments as she wanted. But money was in short supply. Elena had beenand would bepaid for putting on this lecture. Not much since most of the [Mages] hadnt enjoyed it as much.

But shed still have fistfuls of gold and an allowance of magical trinkets, low-level scrolls or lessons from her faction. Which she could turn into secrets.

Wistram Academy rewarded the Earthers for their efforts in that way. Aaron had no concept of goldbut he gathered they were being paid lavishly. Or scraps, depending on how you looked at it. Either way, secrets were worth more in Wistram and the Earthers had quickly learned they could amass small fortunes to pursue their activities.

They were captive. But they werent prisoners. That was a good way of describing them. Now, Aaron saw Elena trot over to a waiting shape.

A clay man. Or ratherporcelain. He had been fired and his form created to be a nondescript figure, his clothes and features given color by delicate brushes. But that had been centuries ago; his paint was flaking and faded in places.

Here. A tip. Thank you for setting up and cleaning up. You can get rid of the paintings.

Elena offered the servant-Golem the gold coin. It just looked at it. Slowly, it took the coin. And then bowed.

Miss Elena, you do not need to tip the golems. They clean and perform tasks as necessary.

Teura was distressed as well as aghast by Elenas insistence on tipping. The young woman looked at her.

I know I dont have to.

Thenthe Golems are not like us, Miss Elena. They do not have personalities. They do not level.

The half-Elf [Mage] said it as if that decided everything. The Golem began moving chairs to one side, to sweep and clean the classroom. Not swiftly, but not slowly either, and it would continue at that pace until all the work was done. Blackmage, Aaron, edged out of its path.

Elena smiled at Teura.

They dont think like we do. And they dont level. Thats true, Miss Teura. But they might one day. Or did you miss Aarons presentation on Artificial Intelligence?

The half-Elf gulped. She fell silent and paled; the remaining [Mages] in the room eyed the golem and then Aaron. He looked at Elena as she spoke.

I believe in being kind either way, Miss Teura. Besides. As I understand it, the Golems of Archmage Zelkyr rule Wistram. Not [Mages]. When that changes, Ill stop tipping.

She smiled at the gaping half-Elf. And then took her plate and walked out of the room. Aaron whistled softly.

Damn. Elena had no chill. But thenshe was one of many people from Earth. And if Wistram thought they would all dance to their tune, theyd been sorely mistaken.

This was Wistram Academy. And if the academy held Earthers and learned from themwell, the young people were learning too.

-

The air was hot with smoke. He crouched in amid the fumes, trying not to cough. And the enemywas everywhere.

Flashes of light lit up the battleground. People cried out in pain, shouting instructions.

They were coming for him. The young man checked his weapon. The gun was light in his hands. He took a breath, and then twisted the ring on his finger. He left his cover and ran.

I see someone! Invisible! The smoke! There

Click, click, click. With each shot, he heard a snap, a soundimpacts. Cries of pain.

Ow!

Hit, hit!

Spells flashed after him. Saif dove. Hed already known where his cover would be. The attack spells missed him, eating into the dirt. And he was already crawling.

Lets get him.

No, youIm out.

My shields on. Cast homing missiles!

The spells hit the earth as the group of [Mages] debated hotly. But Saif wasnt there. He was crawling. Ahead of him lay a huge structure with multiple areas for cover. He leapt up, grabbed the edge as he let the gun rest in the holster on his back. Pulled himself up, and then crouched.

He deactivated the invisibility ring. The [Mages] were looking around, trying to figure out if he was still in cover.

Hey! If youre hit you have to announce it!

One of the younger [Mages] shouted. She aimed her wand at the place Saif had been and launched another volley of homing arrows. He rolled his eyes. He knew that. He was no cheater.

But this was his game, not theirs. One of the [Mages] announced.

I see no magic aura. I think he ran.

The others murmured. Saif grinned. They had no idea. They were trusting to him using the [Invisibility] spell. But why did you need a spell when you could just hide?

He crouched behind the small window, peeking out as the [Mages] advanced. They had forwards-facing shields of magic and were moving in a group, overlapping their shields. Idiots.

One of them was at least intelligent enough to be scouting around more. He raised his wandhe was a Dwarf of all things. A [Wizard], to judge by his reliance on his magical artifacts.

Let me see if hes ahead. [Heat Vision]oh no

He turned his head and saw Saif too late. The young man leaned out of the window. His gun rumbled as his rifle, on full-auto, discharged a magazine.

Ow! Ow! Gaah

The [Mages] screamed as the projectiles hit them. They did not fall to the ground, but one clutched at his back.

Hit! Hit! How did he get behind us!?

They saw Saif leaping out the window. He was already repositioning. More [Mages] were coming to check on the shouting. They had magical shields, wands at the readyand spells. One even leapt forwards using [Haste].

They were slaughtered. Saif shot, clinging to shadows, outmaneuvering them with the rings that allowed him to jump, turn temporarily invisible, or just sprint at superhuman speed. He had all of the rings powers memorized and had practiced with them extensively. And his guntheir wands were quick. But he had a gun. And each time it barked, they died.

Of course, not actually died. It was just an airsoft gun.

-

Damn. Theyre getting slaughtered.

Aaron whistled as he joined the spectators in the enchanted glass viewing area where they could watch the [Mages] fighting in the massive battleground Saif had set up for his project. Like a science fairs project, only with nigh-unlimited budgets

If you could demonstrate to your faction why they should fund you. In this caseSaif had an airsoft gun from his world. He was a good playerclose to professional, a veteran of many war-games. The young man from France had claimed that with a smaller team he could wipe out any number of Wistrams vaunted [Battlemages] or combat-[Mages].

And so far, hed killed over twenty. They emerged from the smokey area, which was set up with actual trees grown by [Green Mages], artificial buildings, even a sewer system and lakesall in one of Wistrams rooms.

Those damn pellets hurt! One nearly put out my eye!

A [Mage] was complaining loudly as he rubbed at his back. Aaron felt for him; hed been in an airsoft game with the guns just once, and you could draw blood with them. And if you were hit in the eye?

Well, part of the problem was that Saifs airsoft pellets werent cheap plastic but copies, made of metal, clay, resin or other substitutes. They still fired since Saifs gun wasnt a gun at all, but an air-powered version that propelled the ammunition with the power of compressed air. But even his gun was

Crack, crack, crack! Elena pointed.

Thats Saif! Hes on the run!

Bright flashes of light illuminated the smoke. Saifs team had deployed countless smoke spells to give them the benefit of cover. Now, Saif was visible for a second as arrows of light, beams of magiceven a giant orb which floated and detonated, spraying the entire area with lightchased him into the sewers.

How was he not hit?

Hes anticipating the attacks! Spells are slower, ladies and gentlemen! And as you can seeeven this fake gun is enhanced with our magic!

Crack. Saifs gun sounded and someone began swearing and screaming as he nailed a [Battlemage] in the ass from behind. Saif was moving fast thanks to the rings hed been given. And his rifle might not be using gunpowder

I think you cranked up the gas in those enchanted canisters too much, Aaron. Holy fuck, this is fun.

Someone exclaimed from a seat with a bucket of popcorn. Aaron and Elena turned and saw George and Eun laughing and watching the carnage.

Hey guys. How long has this been going on?

One hour. They keep replaying. The [Mages] are salty. LookSaifs about to ambush themooh!

The rifle unloaded another magazine. [Mages] clutched at their back and Saif hit one of them six times on the legs. Aaron winced.

Theyre working? The enchanted canisters?

Airsoft guns ran on compressed gas. Until recently, Aaron hadnt cared to know how they were made. But they were made of green gas, a type of propane, which was used to propel the projectiles. It had been a pain to figure out a way to copy it, especially since Saif had only had two magazines left and been running low on gas when hed been teleported out of his airsoft game and into another world.

But Nailihuaile herself had worked with an [Aeromancer] to compress air into the gun. And then shed had to enchant the rifle to prevent it from actually exploding from the increased pressure. That, plus the tiny pellets theyd commissioned and figured out how to load meant.

Dead gods! Its in my skin! It hurts! Owow

A moaning [Mage] was actually carried off the field. His leg was a mess of blood. Some of the Wistram [Mages] in the audience looked faint. But Saif kept hunting the other [Mages].

They got him in the end, but only after hed taken down nearly three dozen. The trick was that Saif dodged and hid and ran away the instant he thought he might actually be in danger of being struck by a single spell; the [Mages] did not. They werent nearly as athletic, or as used to the idea of being shot despite their shields.

But they were just as competitive.

Another round! If we could use full-body shield spells, wed have him!

A Drake [Mage] slammed his fist into his palm as he argued with a Dullahan. Beatrice, of the Revivalists, folded her arms.

We cannot allow that, Mage Cekis. If we were able to make a spell that drops the shield after, say, three shots, we could allow it. Archmage Nailihuaile and our other [Enchanters] are working ongame artifactsbut until then

Three shots? But his little gun-thing can spit dozens per second! Thats not fair!

The Drake shouted, outraged. Beatrice was unmoved.

A real gun can do the same, sir. And a high-level from Terandrias Hunters Guild can do the same. An [Archer] only needs one [Piercing Shot]. Or is that not true?

The [Mage] hesitated. Some of the other [Mages] muttered.

That damn speed. I was sure I hit him.

You dont weave around enough, Battlemage Decul. Your spells work wellbut youre too stationary. Ill just run away if I think Im going to be hit. Never attack if youre worried about being counterattacked.

Saif laughed. He had a few scorch marks on the enchanted leather armor he wore; some of the [Mages] cast actual [Light Arrow] spells. But he was in great form. The French [Gun Scout] checked his rifle, examining all the parts with practiced ease. Aaron saw him touch-counting the ammunition on his belt.

Im nearly out of ammunition. I can do one more round. Any takers?

The ones whod been playing hesitated, but there was no shortage of younger [Mages] eager to take Saif on. Unlike Elenas lecture, which had been classified as experienced [Mages] only, this was open to all students. They didnt know what Saifs weapon was, but they were all too keen to prove they were as good as any adventurer. Which is what they thought he was.

Saif took them to bits. Elena offered the guac around and Eun declined while George took some. The young Korean man shook his head.

They are overconfident, yeah?

He nudged George, his best friend and the classmate hed been transferred to this world with, out of a Freshman introductory college course. George, the amiable South Carolinian, nodded.

Thats right, Eun. Overconfident.

The [Mages] hadnt ever been in a life-and-death scenario. Most didnt even try to dodge. They just put up shield spells and went on the attack, blasting away enthusiastically at the other teams. Meanwhile, Saif, while not a soldier or any kind of law enforcement from Earthstill knew how combat was supposed to work.

This time Saif ran out of ammunition and switched to the wand hed been given. He and his team actually won, despite being half the size of the other teams.

Itd be different if we could use [Fireball] spells! Mage Rievan, thats not fair!

A young man from Terandria, Charles de Trevalier, complained loudly. He was white-faced, having needed a healing potion. Saif had nailed him in the jaw eight times after the noble had refused to quit after his first shot. Aaron grinned, but furtively. He didnt like Charles.

I have to protest, Mage Beatrice. This littlediversion isnt a fair representation of Wistram Academys abilities.

Mage Rievan of the Libertarians scowled at Beatrice. The Dullahan was unmoved; he was her superior in age and influence in Wistram, but she was a secretbroker. And also, a member of the Revivalists.

This is a simulation, Mage Rievan. It is meant to teach [Mages] the limitations of their ability in battle. We dont simulate the smoke and flames [Fireball] spells could cause. And if Mage Charles had cast a [Fireball] in that corridor, the back blast would have killed him.

Then Id cast [Lightning Bolt]! This damn game is pointless! Timbor, with me!

Charles snapped. He and a group of Libertarians stomped out of the simulation, covered in welts. They were the mostly-Human faction led by Archmage Viltach who were mostly concerned with Terandrian affairs.

Asses. I cant believe they like you, Eun.

Elena glared after them. She glanced at Eun. The South Korean [Student] shrugged, awkwardly.

They arepolite. They like me. Because I am Human.

I guess that matters more than the fact that Euns from Korea. Nice to see.

George quipped amiably. He wasnt part of Euns faction. Both had been rescued from the [Pirate] ship where theyd been captured after a raid on the harbor where theyd been working as [Scribes]. The Wistram team had followed them and rescued both, but the factions in Wistram had fought and the Libertarians had claimed Eunthe Sedoli group, George.

Howre you two being treated? Any issues?

Eun shook his head, but George hesitated.

I am very good, thank you, Elena.

George?

Aaron and Elena looked at him. They were both more influentialAaron because he was the first Earther, Elena because she was from Caras group. She had travelled with the [Popstar] of Terandria. George shuffled his feet.

Ithe Sedolis are great, really. But theyre a bitcreepy?

He lowered his voice. Most of the [Mages] were watching the clean up or asking Saif if his gun was really that deadly in actual combatwhether he wanted to join their faction, or just have a more private demonstration with some of their combat-mages, etc. The other Earthers crowded around George.

Whats wrong?

Theyre just soyou know? Obsessed with Golems? Half of the studentsthey ask whether I think their Golems look natural. Theyre nude. And the other half move about or juststand there. Watching me.

George shuddered. He, like Aaron, was from America. Different states, but the two had a strong connection nevertheless. The Sedoli faction had him, though. And they were

Golem-makers. The same group that Archmage Zelkyr had once been part of. They were in decline, but still a strong group. They maintained and made new Golems, often selling their work.

They were indeed creepy. The hallways of the academy where theyd staked their claim were often littered with unfinished parts of Golems. If you walked into some of their storage rooms where finished projects from masters or journeymen were keptyoud see dozens of mannequin-like figures. Who of course, followed you and stared at you.

The worst ones asked questions at night. Aaron had nearly shat himself the first time he wandered into Sedoli territory and the wall had asked if he was lost.

One of the new apprentices made a spider-Golem the other week. It was huge.

The young man muttered, holding his knees and turning pale. Eun patted him on the back.

Maybe we can switch? Alice wants to change factions.

Thats because shes a loudmouthed idiot who cant handle Selphids. Let her switch with you, George. If you ask your faction head, hell probably agree.

Elena advised George. The [Magical Student] looked up.

Old man Tiktal? But hes been such a great guy to me. Its not his fault

His throat worked. He could remember every person in the Sedoli faction. And any number of facts from his world, from dates to events and so on. George hadnt been the best student, but the [Student] class had given him a near-perfect recall. Just like Saif was a nightmare with his airsoft gun.

Ask. If youre not okay with it, you should ask. Tell himits trauma. Hell believe that. You can join some of the therapy sessions and pretend, okay, George? Alice can trade with you.

Thanks, Elena. I might. I dont want to give Alice to them.

Theyll just make nude Golems out of her. The Sedolis are weird.

No one argued with that. Wistram had many factions, and many kinds of [Mages]. It said something that the Sedolis were only weird. But there were far creepier. George relaxed and helped himself to more chips. The four sat about, and Elena griped about her failed lecture. After a while, Saif came over. He was sweaty.

Whew! That was fun. Aaron, thanks for fixing the gun. I think Im popular, right?

He had a delighted grin on his face. Hed been feeling useless for the last four weeks hed been here, so Aaron had worked hard to get his airsoft gun working. Now, Saif was on fire.

Glad it worked. Just dont answer any questions about actual firearms.

Elena cautioned Saif. He rolled his eyes.

Im not an idiot, Elena. I couldnt make one if I tried. I think. George and Eun, theyre the ones who know how, right?

He nudged the two. Theyd recalled how batteries worked. Aaron had been experimenting, but hed forgotten the basic steps. Theyd filled his basic gaps in knowledge; he could take apart a smartphone and put it back together again and do programming, but hed never had to make abattery. He was a [Magictech Engineer], not an [Inventor]!

Eun looked startled and shook his head. George just looked pale.

He was one of the anti-gun Earthers. Which was good, because George was one of the few with a working knowledge of how guns worked. But he claimed to have seen enough gun-related deaths for one world.

Lips sealed, Elena. Promise.

She patted Georges arm. The African-American man shivered and she nodded. Elena was from Greece. Reassuringly, she whispered to him.

Dont worry. Archmage Nailihuaile is against guns too.

Only because she thinks itll put her out of a job.

Aaron muttered back. Elena elbowed him. She patted George on the shoulder. Then she turned to Saif.

Does Aaron get any of your funding?

Yeah. Sure! I have to pay him to upgrade my rifle, right? Ill give you a third of what I get for my presentation, Blackmage.

Saif nodded. He grinned as Aaron shifted uncomfortably. To many, in the academy, or even from Earth, his nickname was his user-handle. Blackmage.

Just give me enough to fund my projects, Saif. Speaking of whichIve gotta work on Lamonts project tonight.

Need any help with the batteries?

George offered, as much to get out of his Golem-infested hallways as anything. Aaron grimaced.

Cant. Different factions. Join the Centrists with Elena, George, and then theyll let you.

Oh. Right

The Earthers were allowed to mingle under supervision, but each faction guarded their assets to greater or lesser degrees. As Elena described itthey were a single community split up, and they had to find ways to communicate and avoid being brainwashed. Some factions did work togetherthe Centrists would loan Elena to the Revivalists if they needed to collaborate on something that would enrich both groups. But other groups

Anyone seen Sidney?

Not since the last week.

Well see her in therapy. Her faction has to let her join. Ill ask how shes doing and if shes not okayIll petition Feor to do something.

Elena nodded as if that settled that. The others nodded. Elena was a force. And that fit her in a way

She had been friends with Cara, the [Popstar] of Terandria. The Earthers that Cara had found had sent Elena when Wistram had made contact. No one else, so far. Wistram was trying to persuade them through Aaron and Elena, butAaron suspected shed sent some kind of covert message because the [Popstar] of Terandria was staying independent.

Im going to bathe. This was really fun, yeah. I think I can buy some magical items. I must have earned at least ten thousand gold from the first game alone! And theyll pay me to show them more!

Saif broke the silence, grinning. He was excited and hed probably level up in his new class, [Gun Scout]. He could run faster, the projectiles from his gun behaved like actual bullets when he wanted them to, and his aim and eyesight were improved.

He looked at this world like a game. Mainly because his first interaction with this world had been wandering into the nearest Mages Guild and asking if they had a map. Theyd taken him to Wistram at once.

George and Eun were more subdued. So was Elena. She just shook her head.

Remember, Saif. Its not as fun outside of Wistram.

I know that. Ive seen the therapy stuff. Tell the others hi for me. If they want to hang outwere partying with a bunch of 3^rd years. Probably more. Its a huge party, down past the fountains?

I know it. Ill let them know.

Elena promised. Saif waved and trotted off, to keep talking and then secure his rifle away from grabby hands. A group of cleaning-Golems trooped into the battleground to pick up debris and clear it.

Of course, the battlegrounds was massive, but Wistrams citadel was far larger than it appeared on the outside. The door to this massive room with a second floor looking down onto the practice arena was only a set of three doors sitting next to each other in the hallway. One led to the top floor, the other two, the ground floor.

Magic. Aaron was used to it, but Eun just shook his head. He was half-convinced this was just virtual reality or some trick. George believedand so did Elena. They had seen things.

As for Blackmage?

To him, this world was amazing. Wonderful. Wistram? Less so. He knew he was a permanent guest and he resented that. But he had to admithe had gotten lucky.

Some of the visitors from Earth had been less so. And for all Wistram may have snatched some people away and refused to give them back even if they wanted to leavethey had saved more than their fair share too.

-

It was wrong to call them cruel. Some were. Beatrice had told Aaron stories of Charles de Trevalier and some of the others. So had Montressabefore shed left with the experimental shock-orb to hunt a traitorous [Necromancer] and search for more Earthers.

There were bad [Mages]. But most, Aaron was learning, were justpeople. Archmage Nailihuaile, for instance, could be random and silly. Engaging, and far younger than her actual age. But she was also calculating and she could be cold. Feor was scarier, though.

But the thing wasthey werent bad people. At least, that was what Aaron struggled with. He didnt like Teura and a number of other [Mages].

But still. This room was soft. The sun shone down; it came through layers of Wistrams walls. The magic let those sitting in the inn feel as though they stood in a glass box.

It was a beach. Soft, white sand. Even water, animals. Wistram Academy had been made of so many [Mages] over the years, each with their own goals or desires

This was a relaxation room. Similar to the rooms with literal fields that [Green Mages] tended to and provided some of Wistrams food, especially in times of siege. This roomabout sixty feet wide by forty feetwas just a beach.

Hawaii. Or rather, Aaron imagined it was like that. It looked like something out of the commercials.

Just no cockroaches.

Malia whispered to him as she passed around lemonade. Welllemonade flavored with other fruits. The yellow was blended with something blue. Aaron asked the Hawaiian girl what it was.

Amentus fruits. Elena paid for some from the last [Merchant].

Both turned to look at Elena. She was welcoming people into the room. This hadnt been her idea; it was Malias. But Elena had dedicated herself to helping with the regular sessions.

Hey, everyone. Take a seat. How are you? Basil, Duha, hiuhuhmarhabaan? Obi, thank you for comingSidney!

She embraced a young woman from Canada as more people filed in. Wistram had found dozens and dozens of Earthers. Of that number, abouta tenth were here.

They sat on the beach, or took drinks, talked about their daysthis wasnt Aarons crowd. He was just looking in. Tosee how they were.

They had come a few months after hed been at Wistram. At first a handful. Then, more and more as Wistram realized how many people from Earth there were scattered across the world.

But unlike the others, who were either partying with the younger [Mages]working on their own projects, learning about this world, studying magicsomething unified all of these people.

Many were shivering. Some had come in pairs, or small groups. Twobrothers of fifteen compared to the older people from Earthrefused to let anyone touch them.

Sidney kept to the light. She refused to go anywhere without a [Light] spell. She wasfourteen. The youngest age bracket of people who had come from Earth. And Elena was especially kind to her.

Have a drink. Sit, Sidney. Lets sit on the beach. Looktheres even the tide. You can swim, if you want. Im glad youre here. Are you okay?

She put Sidney on a blanket, fussing over her. Handing her one of the drinks. No alcohol was served here. Malia went around with some food.

Not a grand spread like at the lectures. This was fundedwith the approval of the Archmages, but still independentlyby Malia, Elena, and a few of the Earthers. Most of the [Mage] factions didnt see the point. Blackmage had put money into this as well.

This wastherapy. And after nine sessionsthere was a flow. Aaron stood by the door, sipping from his drink.

Basil spoke for the first time. He was Bulgarian. And his proficiency in English was low. But enough.

They were heroes.

He looked around. The others listened. Elena held Sidneys shoulder. Basil looked past them.

Heroes

What did they do, Basil? Can you tell us? Its okay if you cant.

The young woman, Malia, spoke encouragingly. She had no degree in therapy. All she knew was watching pop cultural examples. Even soher class was [Healer]. [Thought Healer]. Basil shuddered.

Goblins.

The word made one of the young women hide her face in her hands. The others shifted. Basil looked around.

Theyitit was . They

They came up out of the caves. He had been working as a [Smelter], using his knowledge of metallurgy from his world to improve the crude forges in the village.

The Goblins had been there for a long time. But the village had walls, and two Level 20+ [Warriors].

It hadnt been enough. The Goblins, an entire tribe of them over three hundred strong, had overrun the village in minutes. They put the warriors to death. Tried to capture women. When they realized the villagers and Basil had sealed themselves in the stone building that was the villages meeting hall, they had laid siege to it.

For six days and nights, the Goblins assailed the walls, trying to crack the stone. Twice, they had tunneled in. The villagers and Basil fought, hearing screams from outside. In Chandrar, this arid area was lacking in food and water. Only the mineral deposits made it worthwhile.

The Goblins had begun eating the villagers. Living or dead. On the sixth day, they had been close to breaking through despite the best efforts of the Human and Stitchfolk community.

Then, the Silver-rank team had come. They had received the [Message] spell. The Contempt of Zeikhal had not known how many Goblins there were.

Three hundred. Not a vast horde, but far more than a team of eight should have handled. But the adventures had seen the siege. They had counted the Goblins.

They had charged.

The villagers and Basil had heard them dying as they tried to unblock the door. Three of the eight fell within the first ten minutes, overwhelmed. The last put their backs to the wall and fought.

Three hundred Goblins had assailed the village. Some had died in the attack. But stillwhen the villagers emerged, ready to fight and die rather than be overwhelmed in a corner, they had found only a handful left.

A [Blade Dancer]. A [Bard]. The brave [Archer] who called out to them, and the [Sand Mage], the last to fall. They had killed at least two hundred Goblins, drinking healing potions and fighting in between barriers, choking their numbers.

Until the last adventurer fell. The remaining Goblins had fled, led by their foul Hobgoblin Chieftain back into the caves. The second team of Gold-ranks had purged them. But the adventurers had died. The village had been putting statues up of them when Basil had been found.

They saved us.

At this point, Basil could go on no more. He wiped at the tears on his face. He had killed eight Goblins during the siege. But the nightmares of their laughter and the villagers being slowly eaten had stayed with him for the last three months.

Thank you, Basil.

That was all Malia said. She hugged him fiercely and the others murmured as well. Basil sat in the sand, staring at the beautiful, emerald waters as if they were coated in pollution and filth. After a moment, someone else asked to speak.

Aaron stood in the doorway, silent and pale. Basil had a chunk missing from one arm, where his skin had healed awkwardly. A Goblins bite. Some of the others had scars too.

This was the reality of the world. For every Earther who had been lucky, like Saif, or rescued like George and Eun, another had been in some mortal peril. Been forced to barter all they had away, starved, been lost

And those were the ones Wistram found. Aaron looked at Basil. No wonder his factionScriptels againcomplained that he hadnt been able to transcribe many stories or knowledge from his world beyond the alphabet. He bowed his head

The door opened.

I say, is Miss Elena here? I had more questions about this space business. I promise I wont laughIoh.

Aaron turned. The [Mage] with the bushy brown raccoon-beard paused as he saw the Earthers. They all stared at him.

Ive got this, Elena

Aaron grabbed the [Mage]. To his surprise, the man didnt have any protective spells. He was rather heavy, but only protested verbally as Aaron pulled him outside.

I say! Whats this about? I wanted to speak to Miss ElenaIll compensate her for the time, I know how this goes.

Shes busy. This is aprivate time.

Aaron barred the door. The [Mage]was he a High Mage? Snorted.

Im well aware youyou Earth-people need your time. But this is a matter of magic. I was speaking to a [Gravitationist] and he was claiming theres a lot of basis to make this round earth thing go. We were going to make a model based on that soul-system

Im sure Elena would love to help you, uh, High Mage Telim. But

Im a busy man, young, er, Blackmage. And I wont be manhandled!

The [Mage] squirmed as the two jostled for place in the hallway. A Golem, made of stone and pushing a cart full of books walked past them, and some students stared. Telims face turned red. Then he muttered a spell.

You made me do it. [Paralys]

Aaron locked up. He felt the spell go through him and tried to block it. But he was still only around a 3^rd or 4^th year students prowess at best, despite his studying from more advanced [Mages].

And [High Mage] Telim was a powerful [Mage]. Or at least, good enough to cast a single spell. He adjusted his robes over his stomach and pushed the door open. He glanced at Aaron irritably as a voice floated towards them.

What is so urgent, anyways?

Aaron made his lips move despite the magic locking down every part of his body.

Therapy.

Inside, on the beach, Sidney was speaking for the first time. She held the ball of [Light] and shivered. Shivered uncontrollably. Telim paused in the open door leading to the stone hallway. He heard the girls voice.

It was so dark. There were four of us. Mamytold us to hide. It was dark, and I was crying. She put me in the hole while the others ran. And there were lots of them. She said not to move.

And what came out of the cavern tunnels they had been transported to? What vile monsters?

Rats. Justrats. Not even the largest ones. But so many. A flood. And they chased the children. Mamy, Sidneys older sister, had no levels. No weapons, even. Her brothers ran and were overtaken.

Sidney had found a hole. She had hid there, the only person able to fit. But the rats were even smaller than she. So what had her sister done?

She told me to stay there.

And what did she do? Sidney?

Elenas face was pale. They were all listening. Aaron saw the girl look up. A [Survivor].

She sat down.

She began to cry. That was all. Her sister sat down and didnt move. And whilst the rats had scurried about, after the girl had fainted after screaming and cryingshe had gained the ability to make light. And chased away the rats and ran and ran until the kindly [Farmers] found her.

Sidney was sobbing as Elena held her. But she was afraidafraid to even bury her face in the young womans clothes. The lightshe never went without it.

Aaron sat on the ground. At some point, the spell had ended. He saw a figure in the doorway as he looked up. And he rose. He didnt have the experimental electrical weapons. But if that man interrupted, Aaron would jump

High Mage Telim backed out of the doorway. He turned and Aaron saw his sick, horrified face for a second. Then the man ran. He got a dozen paces before he vomited in the hallway. Aaron stared at his back. The man had tears in his eyes.

-

I had no notion. I heard there wastrouble in some of their recoveries. But are they allall like that?

A few minutes later, Telim stared into the beach room. People were comforting Sidney as best they could. High Mage Telims face was very pale.

Even the stories had horrified the man. Aaron hadnt expected that. But Telim was not a [Battlemage]. Or even used to combat. He shuddered as Aaron nodded.

This is why I dont leave the academy. Ever. Dead gods. Rats?

He wiped at his mouth. He had puke in his beard, but it dried up and fell out as he waved a hand over his front, doing the same to his clothes.

That poor girl. That poorand her sister. Her brothers?

He passed a hand over his face. And tearsAaron saw them trickling down the mans pudgy face. Telim looked into the room.

Therapy. I thoughtmy colleagues called your world soft. But that would be a nightmare for any soul. That poor girl. Isis she well? She was taken by then Orenaius faction. [Light Mages]. No wonder.

She comes to therapy every time. It helps. It would be better if she could be around Elena, or Malia more, High Mage Telim.

Aaron explained. The man looked at him.

Of course! Dead gods, but the girl needswhat is she drinking?

Um. Lemonade? I can get you some.

Aaron didnt want the man to interrupt. Not that it seemed Telim would. He blinked, rubbed at his face.

Dead gods, I need a drink. Whats lemonademade of lemons?

And sugar. And some Amentus fruit?

Sweet. No alcohol? Nothing else?

No. Mage Telim, if you need a drink

I dont need one. That poor girl needs one. Every damn child in that room needs one. Come with me.

The [High Mage] snapped his fingers. He swung the door closed and marched off. Aaron blinked and followed him.

Telim was a good spellcaster; he cast [Haste] to make up for his ambling pace. So even at a slow walk, Aaron had to jog to keep up.

Where are we going?

My faction. I know an [Alchemist]no, on second thought, theres an [Apothecary] who owes me a favor.

The difference was, apparently, that one did more medicinal brews. Telim navigated Wistrams twisting, sometimes changing corridors with ease, cursing when he realized the route had changed and easily circumnavigating the area. He knew dozens of people who called out to him.

Not now, Sala. Its this terrible thingI dont have time to teach anyone spells! Begone! Shoo! No drinking! Youstudents! Out of the way!

The fat man bulled past a group of 4^th years. He was a Libertarian, Aaron remembered. Part of Viltachs Human-centric faction. But the Selphid, Sala, fell into step with Telim.

Whats the matter, Telim? I havent seen you moving like this since you heard about chocolate. Hello, Blackmage.

Im looking for Vhedel, Sala. Any idea where he is?

Hmmhis rooms?

Telim cursed at her. The Selphid grinned; she was wearing a dead womans face. But Selphids were always changing.

Vhedel! Vhedel, get your hemp ass out here you waste of space! Or Ill confiscate all your damn dreamleaf from the gardens, see if I dont!

Telim shouted. What he wanted from the grumpy Hemp Stitch-[Mage] was in fact, an entire armful of vials. Vhedel protested, and Telim nearly shoved his finger up the Stitch-Mans nose.

Ill pay you back. Its not even as if its that expensive.

Its a shipment

Its for the Earthlings. Clear it with Viltach. Now, Sala, give me a hand with these.

Use your bag of holding. Oh, waityou stuffed it to the brim with food, didnt you? Fine. Mister Aaron?

The Selphid woman sighed. She and Aaron followed Telim back the way theyd come. The man was sorting through the vials. As they reached the beach door, Aaron finally caught his breathhed been moving without any speed-spells so his sides hurtand asked.

Whats all this, Mage Telim?

The man gave him an incredulous look. He bulled into the beach.

Excuse me! This is private

Elena shot to her feet with Malia. Some of the other Earthers looked frightened. But Telim just approached Sidney.

Hello, young woman. II couldnt help but hear your story. On behalf of Wistram, I am terribly sorry for your loss. But you are safe here. Stick to your factions hallways and you shall never come to harm.

She tried to hide behind Elena. The [Beautician] scowled at Telim.

Im sure she appreciates that. But she really doesnt need

On the contrary. Id take it as a kindness if you added this to your drinks, Miss Elena.

The [Mage] pulled Elena aside. He showed her one of the vials, and the blue glass label. Elena frowned at it. Then her eyes widened.

A Calming Tonic?

Of course. Did none of you think to use one?

Aaron slapped his forehead. Sala looked around, startled.

Nothere are calming potions?

There are potions for everyone. These are decent. Put a few drops in each glass. More if need be. Adventurers and former [Soldiers] use them all the time. You can even mix themthe [Apothecary] I got them from is careful to make his medicines complimentarywith sleeping draughts. For someone small, one drop puts them right out, in warm liquid. No milk. Never milk. I use three drops myself, but Im a bigger sort and a [Mage]

He shoved the vials into Elena and Malias arms. Startled, Elena looked at Telim.

Ithank you.

Its nothing.

The [High Mage] looked at Sidney with misty eyes. Instantly, Malia opened one of the vials.

Sidney? Try a drop of this. Its just a potion. Magic.

The others were wary as she went around. But they had seen Harry Potter. And Elena had told Sidney this was like Hogwarts. Soas the girl who had been weeping drank the lemonade, her sobbing calmed. Some of the others looked at their mugs. And relief passed across their faces. Basil, rings under his eyes, asked for something different. Malia put two drops of the sleeping draught in his drink.

The young man from Bulgaria downed his cup. He massaged at the circles under his eyesthen he lay back in the sand and fell asleep.

-

That should do for now. Ask for Vhedel; he can supply the rest. Your faction leaders should provide once they understand the need.

A few minutes later, Telim was speaking to Elena and Aaron outside the room. Sala was listening and swearing as someone else recounted their tale.

ButElena just looked at him. A frown crossed her face.

Are there any side effects, High Mage? Im grateful, butwill the others grow addicted to the drinks?

Addicted? Only in the sense that it helps. They might need higher dosages if they keep imbibing; tolerances. But why would I give them something addictive?

Telim looked deeply offended by the suggestion. Elena blinked.

Ino, I was just asking. Thank you, again.

It waspurely necessary. I had no idea, Miss Elena. I will speak to you at another time?

The [High Mage] shook his head and cast one glance into the beach room as Elena nodded. Then he turned to Aaron.

My sympathies, young man. Our world is not always kind. I forget that.

He patted Aaron on the shoulder, leaving a bit of dried puke, and walked off. Aaron stared after Telims back.

I thought that was a plot.

Elena muttered. She looked at Aaron. He just shook his head.

He was crying. And he threw up.

No. From hearing Sidneys story?

Yep. Over there.

It was still on the floor. A Golem was sweeping it up. Elena shook her head.

Im an idiot for not thinking of potions. I guess you just think theres only healing potions and mana potionsthose were the only real ones I used when I was back with Cara

She broke off, looking at Aaron. He hesitated. Elena was tight-lipped about her time with the [Popstar] of Terandria even with the other Earthers. She didnttrust him entirely.

Which was fair. Aaron shoved his hands into his pockets. He didnt like mages robes, no matter how cool they looked. He kept tripping.

Caras refused to send more of the Earthers. The Archmages keep trying to get me to get her to send them. Theyre talking about sendinghelp.

Elena pursed her lips.

Shes not going to like that. Dont get me wrong, Aaron. Blackmage. Cara was grateful for all the help you gave her.

He had noticed the Singer of Terandria when her songs first began spreading. They had talked, using the magical phone connection. But Cara, like batman, and the mysterious L had always been cagey about revealing her location or identity. The others had been found, brought here.

Im trying to help.

Elenas face softened at Aarons hurt look.

I know. But youre not the one Caras worried about. Its

She waved her arms around to mean everything. Wistram Academy. Aaron frowned.

They havent let us go. But theyre not evil, Elena. They rescued Sidney and the others, didnt they?

She chuckled mirthlessly.

They found us, you mean? Most of us werent saved. You heard Basil. Adventurers saved him. Wistram just found him after everything was done. Do you thinknah. You couldnt know what people think of Wistram.

That stung. Aaron glared at her. The [Magictech Engineer] thought of his shock-glove and the orb.

I think they can make a lot of good items. Or dont you think one of my shock-gloves would have helped against those rats? Or Goblins?

Your Iron Man glove? Sure, its useful. But who says youre going to get to use it, Aaron? Theyll never let us leave here.

She sneered at him. Aaron hesitated.

But theyre not

She poked at his chest.

Believe me. They might be nice to use while were useful, Aaron. But we are not in control. Cara warned me it might be like that and I volunteered. Get it? She didnt send me because I was useless. Im her friend. And Ive seen what magicwhat power does to people.

The [Beautician] took a deep, shuddering breath. And something like the look in BasilsSidneys eyes surfaced in her own.

Cara found me. She saved me. You think rats and Goblins are the worst thing in the world, Aaron? At least you could kill those. If Saif had a real gun, he could kill them. But there are things worse than them.

The young womans hand rose to her neck and fell away. Elena shuddered.

I marched with Cara on a village out of hell. Ruled by an immortal [Witch]. I saw evil, Aaron. This? This is what Cara was afraid of. Powerful people, ruling the world and deciding how other people live or die.

She turned away, shaking her head.

For all we know, High Mage Telim is just playing us.

I dont think so. I think heshes not a bad man. Not a good man either. Hes just a man. The [Mages] are just people, Elena.

That was what Aaron believed. Telim had proven that. He wasnt evil. Elena had seen evil, though. She looked doubtful.

There are factions in Wistram, Aaron. Some seem better than the others and there are good people. But are any of them actuallygood? How would we know? This place is made of secrets. Of the three Archmages in Wistram, I dont like any of them. Feor and Naili both have their good sides. And bad sides.

I know. But at least we get food, potions.

Aaron nodded. He stood with Elena, as Sala left the room, shaking her head and looking troubled. Then Blackmage had a thought.

Four.

What?

She looked at him. The young man took a breath.

There are four Archmages in Wistram right now, actually. But the last onesnasty.

-

Therapy ended late in the night. The Earthers were escorted back by their guardiansor some were allowed more autonomy.

Wistrams factions were indeed each unique. Some were large, comprised of thousands of members in the academy and across the world, like the Revivalists, Centrists, and Libertarians. The big three, as Aaron understood them. They had the most voting power in the Council, the most active Archmagesand they were thus more akin to a political party.

Even after leaving Wistram, a [Mage] might have ties to their party. But the smaller ones wereinteresting. And some had different goals which were at odds with the lofty goals of the rest of Wistram.

The Aquais faction was one of the few factions that needed no introduction. Water-[Mages]. [Hydromancers], sea-specialists. But alsowind-mages. And they didnt limit themselves to just those disciplines. The group invited anyone with a certain bent to their magic. Heck, theyd even take a [Pyromancer]if they created art.

In My Dreams. Someone was singing a Broadway hit as Aaron stumbled through their corridors by chance. Artwork hung on the walls, arranged by theme, there were expensive rugs and carpets on the ground, some hand-sewn, and if you wandered around long enough, someone would be singing, or talking about poetry. A book theyd read.

At the moment, thoughthey were listening. A young man from Earth was singing Anastasias lines. His voice was a beautiful tenor. And though the line belonged to a female singerhe fit the part.

A group of [Mages] were dabbing at their eyes. They were everything from [Magic Painters] to [Battlemages], but ones who appreciated art. And small they might be, but theyd fought to have their one Earther.

It was funny. As Aaron paused in the open amphitheatre that the Aquais faction liked to use, he listened to the young man sing. Erik had been a stage hand. On Earth. Not blessed with a singing voice; he claimed to have had asthma and the wrong pitch for the stage. But with a few classes and [Expanded Lungs], look at him now.

Elena had helped with his stage makeup. The [Mages] burst into a murmur as the song finished.

Exquisite. This kind of performance is what we need. Just like the Players of Celum. I told you all! One of my associates in Invrisil broadcast their performance. Very surreptitiouslybut its the same thing. And you say you knowhow many plays?

Dozens. At least. But I dont know all the lines

Erik replied. The [Mages] sighed.

Dead gods. If onlybut we must put on a performance! The world deserves to see this! Lets put it on the television.

The leader of the faction, a [Pyromancer] with a flair for the dramatic rose to his feet. He cast out an arm as if envisioning himself on stage. The others nodded.

The Archmages have a ban on puttingthings from the academy, though.

Another [Mage] opined. The [Pyromancer] caught himselfscowled.

Damn them. Whats the point of keeping a secret? This deserves to be seen!

The rest of his tiny faction nodded. They insisted Erik keep singing more songs, proffering tonics and potion for his throat. Erik basked in the limelight hed waited for all his life. Aaron felt bad about interrupting him, but he had to.

Erik. Sorry to interrupt you, Magus Idevin, but we need to borrow Erik. He promised to meet with us? Tonight?

What? Nonsense! Its notoh.

The [Pyromancer] realized it was late. He blushed. He swept a hand across his head. He was, incidentally, Human. Not that it needed to be said in any case, but with Wistram [Mages], they were any species except Gnolls.

We must have been listening for hours! We have work to do! Well reconvene tomorrow! Erik, do you need an escort? There were those dratted slimes that got loose

Ill be fine, Magus Idevin.

If youre sure

Wistram wasnt entirely safe. Magical experiments, things from other floors or previously-forgotten rooms sometimes crept out. But it was considered practice for most [Mages] and the Golems did their bit in exterminating most runaway experiments. So long as you stuck to the main corridors, the odds of you dying were one in a million. Most of the time.

Nice singing.

Thank you. Umis there any trouble?

Erik was flushed with excitement. He too had taken to this world and he wasnt a member of the therapy circles. He just loved it here. Aaron wished he could be as happy as Erik, or Saif. But Elena colored his opinion of Wistram.

No. Its just a meeting. Bring your tablet, will you?

Sure. Just let me get it

As Erik hurried off, Aaron fended off more of the Aquais faction who wanted him to sing for them, recite poetry from his world, or describe movies. Not that he didnt like them. Blackmage thought they had the right idea. Why not bring entertainment to this world? Well, some things were dangerous. Butmovies?

Excuse me! Excuse me, Idevin! Can I get a quick word?

A Lizardgirl hopped past the [Mages] and plucked at the [Pyromancer]s sleeve. The faction-head of the Aquais [Mages] looked around amiablyand then recoiled.

Taxiela! You pest! Get away!

He swatted at the Lizardgirl, who looked very young. She scurried back, tears in her eyes.

But Magus Idevin! I just wanted

Shoo! Shoo! The Ullsinoi are not welcome here after your last prank! You stole dozens of our artworks! And sold them!

I never did! Im just an apprenticesir!

The Human man was raising his stave to bash Taxiela over the head. He realized it was a bad scene; those not in the know saw him menacing the Lizardgirl. He hesitated, coughed, lowered the stave.

Your faction owes us gold. Heartbreak, Taxiela! And stop using thatthat illusion!

He was somewhat hesitant about calling her out. Taxielaor the Centaur, Galei, were thought to be the same person. But they might be two different entities. Either wayhe glared suspiciously at Taxiela.

Everyone! Ullsinoi has come to call. Cast [See Invisibility] spells and watch out for illusions!

The other [Mages] groaned and scattered. The higher-level ones began casting anti-Illusion spells and pinching each other, asking questions only the other would know.

It was something, to have a reputation like that. Even Aaron checked his pockets; the Ullsinoi faction wasnt familiar to him. They had no Earthersin Wistram, at least. Theyd caused a stir with the soccer game. And they were known to cause mischief, sometimes on grand scales. It was rumored the incident with Ailendamus fleet had been caused by them.

That of course, meant that they also got into trouble quite a lot. Taxiela was not welcome here and half a dozen [Mages] were watching her, aiming wands or other artifacts at her. She looked terrified.

For about a second. Then she sneezed

And Galei, a huge Centaur leaned on Idevins shoulder. The [Pyromancer] recoiled. But the Centaur laughed, friendly as you like.

Idevin! Lets let bygones be bygones. I apologize about the thefts, but that wasnt my group. You know students. We punished them, but you have to admit, it was a great prank.

They stole artwork! Get off me, Galei! I dont have time for your nonsense. If even so much as a hairpin goes missing from our rooms tonight, Ill have the Council exile your entire faction! Viltach already wants your head.

Idevin thrust the Centaurs hands away. Galei trotted after him, spreading his arms.

Idevin! Friend. I was just going to ask about that. Hes all up in arms over a few ships sinking. But did you agree with the naval blockade? It was blocking freedom of expression.

And your smuggling. Lets not pretend the Elusive Lot wanted anything than keeping their criminal friends happy.

The [Mage] snapped back. Galei shrugged.

The point is that theres this business with Viltach trying to get the Council to lean on us. The Aqauis have friendswe dont have anyone in the Council.

Not openly.

Idevin snapped, but he was listening. He frowned, glancing at Galei and then Aaron, who was still waiting for Erik.

We have a few seats. But were not going up against the Libertarians for no reason.

What if I could promise Id have a majority opposing old Viltach? You just need to vote with the others.

The other [Mage] thought for half a moment and then shook his fiery hair.

Forget it. You lot have been causing too much trouble. The last thing your faction did was steal from us. We owe you nothing. If youll excuse me

He walked off, and three [Mages] blocked Galei. The Centaur put a hand out, calling after Idevin. Thenhe took a breath. And Aaron saw his eyes twinkle.

Turn, hellhound! Turn!

The [Illusionist]s voice roared across the hallway. Idevin whirled. The Centaur walked through the three [Mages]. And suddenly, a figure stood in the hallway.

A Human man. He was tall, dressed in Victorian-era clothes, colorful, a rapier at his side. Erik, hurrying out of his rooms with his tablet and Aaron both stared.

Macbeth, or rather, the [Mage] playing him, was wounded across the shoulder, bloody in two spots. But his eyes gleamed with madness. He drew his sword, and a second figure appeared across from him.

Galei, now adorned in battle-gear, held a sword and shield. He was playing Macduff. Yerzhen, another of the Elusive Lot, pointed his sword at Galei and intoned with weary resignation.

Of all men else I have avoided thee.

But get thee back. My soul is too much charged

With blood of thine already.

Galei scowled, and his voice was rough as he lifted his sword. He stared at Macbeth with all the hatred in the world.

I have no words.

My voice is in my sword. Thou bloodier villain

Than terms can give thee out!

The two charged at each other, attacking, parrying, and the other [Mages] scattered in alarm.

Whats going on? Galei, stop this at once!

Idevin cried out in horror. But the two were locked in mortal combat. Stillit was an act. They were flourishing, the Centaur pressing the Human man back with vicious cuts. Idevin raised his glowing staff, frowning darkly.

I said stop

He was about to blast both with fire, but Erik grabbed his arm.

Magus Idevin! Its a play!Macbeth!

What? But I thought you didnt remember

The [Mages] stared. Then the Aquais faction turned. The two [Illusionists] locked in mortal combat froze.

The air darkened. And a third figure stepped out of the air. Taxiela again. Had this been one [Mage]? Or three? The Lizardgirl bowed, adorned in a mimicry of the same dress as the two men. She swept a cap from her head and bowed as Aaron stared.

Ladies and Gentlemen of the Aquais faction! Prithee, how did we camest to this sad tale of two men locked in mortal combat? The answer lies at the start of our play, of dark prophecy and ambition!

Her eyes twinkled. Taxiela straightened from her bow.

The Ullsinoi factions presents: Macbeth. A play from Earth, transcribed in full by our own lovely people from Earth! A full play, one of over a dozen.

More of the Ullsinoi Faction appeared out of the air. Not [Invisible]; theyd been hiding behind plinths, in rooms. Younger [Mages], bedecked in costume and the Elusive Lot. The Aquais faction jumped, caught off-guard by this ambush.

What is

One of the [Mages] began before she was handed a neatly-bound script. She stared at the embossed title.

Macbeth.

Of course, the entire play. The half-Elf slowly began paging through it, staring at the lines and stage directions. As set down by Erin Solstice for the Players of Celum and then given to Palt. But no one here knew that. Galeis eyes twinkled as he trotted backwards. Taxiela appeared beside Idevin.

I heard you were having trouble recreating some plays, Idevin. What sort of friends would we be if we didnt help out? Consider this play on the house. Weve been practicing, actually. Places!

The Ullsinoi faction spread out for the play, and one of the [Illusionists] conjured a dark curtain. The Aquais-mages were magnetically drawn into their seats.

You have an entire play? But Erik couldnt rememberwe were going to ask for help with recollection spells, but how did you

Ah, well, hes an aspiring [Actor], isnt he? Whereas we have someone with a delightful memory Skill.

Taxielas tail swished merrily. She waved her hand and a number of bound sheafs of paper danced out of her bag of holding.

Feast your eyes on this, Idevin.

Hamlet, Othello, My Fair Ladyall of the plays hung in the air around the stunned [Pyromancer]. He stared at them as the play began. And Taxiela winked at Aaron. She turned to the head of the Aquais faction.

Now, weve been friends for ages, Idevin. And obviouslywe owe you a debt about the theft thing. So why dont we have a chat about that little vote? Oh, and if you like thiswe actually have an in with the Players of Celum. We could have their costume designer make copies for you? Have you read this play, by any chance?

The Aquais faction never stood a chance. As Aaron hurried away with Erik, he heard one of the Aquais [Mages] ask plaintively

Is this from that Joseph boy?

And that question weighed on Aaron Vanwells mind as well. Whatever the caseinformation was power. And the Ullsinoi faction was using their Earther for all he was worth.

-

When I leftit was 2018. When Cara left, it was 2017. Eun swears it was the end of 2016, but he and I both arrived barely a week apart. Erik. Show everyone your tablet.

In a private room, hidden from even the watchful eyes of [Mages], Elena sat at a small table with half a dozen other Earthers. Erik hesitantly showed his tablet around. The others stared at the screen and then swore or exclaimed.

That cant be right!

Jacques shot to his feet. He grabbed at his hair.

Thats a lie. Youre not serious.

I am. I was singing from Anastasia. The Broadway show. Havent any of you heard of it?

One of them had. Haley, a girl from Connecticut, raised her hand. The [Squire], who had been found training in one of Terandrias knight-orders looked around.

Sure did. It came out in my state. But that was 2016. That proves nothing.

Erik looked at her.

Yes. But it came to Germany, Stuttgart, in 2018. That was where I watched it.

The others fell silent. Aaron leaned on the table.

Its 2016. That was when I left.

Were all coming from different times. The question iswhy is time different? Late, late 2016 is Aaron. Everyone else comes from later in time. That means whatever began grabbing us started in 2016. Listen everyone, we dont have long until our factions come looking for us. We have to accept that its now around 2019 in our world. Earth.

Elena raised her voice over the others voices. Aaron heard panic, and felt it too. Time was passing.

Prove it! At leastprove it, Erik! You can say you were in 2018, but do you have any proof?

The young man from Germany nodded. He looked at Elena.

II dont know a lot of politics. Or world events. There were big things happening. But this is my best proof. You all listen to pop, yeah?

Eh.

Some of the others shook their heads. A few looked disgusted, but most had listened to popular songs. Erik nodded. He tapped on his tablet.

This song came out in 2019. It was very popular. If you were around thenyou would have heard it. Listen

The song began to play. Aaron heard a guitar strumming. A voice singing. He started.

Old Town Road. And he was certain, certain he hadnt heard that song before. Why? Because he liked this music and he would have had it on his iPhone if it had existed. This was a new song.

Of course, that wasnt proof. The others demanded to hear new songs. Eriks playlist was incomplete; he only had songs he liked. But he played another one that someone recognized. Another new song. Then Taylor Swifts new music came from Haleys iPhone.

I still dont believe it. Do you have anything from Imagine Dragons? Really? Play it!

Julian demanded. At some point it just became the other Earthers sharing their favorite songs. More than one began demanding a copy of the new songs.

Anyone got a dongle?

A what? Hey, who has a computer?

I think George has one. Ill borrow it and sync everything up.

The others were talking when Aaron raised his wand. The tip flashed brightly and everyone looked at him.

Lets copy music later, everyone. The point is that time is fucked. But thats not all. Elena?

Yeah. Weve discovered a number of things about this world.

The young woman inhaled. She was saving the worst for last. This meeting in privacy, in this blank, off-green room was secret from every faction. Aaron hadfound it. Or rather, hed known it was here and told no one. Not even Nailihuaile. Even the tracking spells would fail to follow them here.

It was where hed hidden a number of artifacts. The floor pulled up. But even Elena didnt know that. Aaron shifted, deliberately not looking at the place where the invisible latch it had taken him six hours to find was. It was the size of your pinkie and hed never found it otherwise. Even magic couldnt detect it.

But hed been told it was there.

Listen up. This world is strange. Ive been working with Andrea and George and a few others. And the [Mages] might not believebut their world defies normal physics. For one thing, weve measured as best we can and we think this world is three times as large as Earth.

More murmurs. But this was a sharing of information. Elena waved a hand as she produced a map. The ends of the world were clearly marked and she scowled at it.

Something is wrong with this world. Gravity should be crushing us if this world really is larger than Earth. Or just the people from Earth. But it doesnt. That meansgravity is being affected by magic? This world isnt larger than Earth?

Its hollow. Think sci-fi.

That came from Jacques. Another person raised his hand.

Sorry, Shun.

One of the others translated as the young man from China asked questions. He and Xiang had arrived with a group of Chinese students and he was their representative. Fortunately, a number of the people were bilingual or had taken language classes.

One continent is the size of Eurasia. According to the maps. Shun, this big. This is China.

Elena drew on the map to show Shun and he recoiled, shaking his head. She nodded.

Its a fact. There are hundreds of maps and unless were being lied toall the measurements are in damn miles, though. This is in kilometers.

Shed done the calculations by hand. A girl from Russia snapped.

Why. Do. They. Measure. In. MILES!?

She had been an [Archer]. The others muttered in vexation. America accounted for a good number of Earthers, but the rest of the world wasthe rest of the world.

However, that actually made Elena cool down a bit. The [Beautician] raised her hand. And she looked around, meeting everyones eyes.

Thats easy. Someone came here before us. Someone from a country using the imperial system. Chess existed before we came here. Were not the first.

How sure are you, Elena?

Haley leaned on the table. Elena shrugged.

How else can you explain everything? People speak English. But they also know Latinsome of the [Mages] think its magical language. They use miles. Whod come up with that exact measurement? They even have expressions from our world. At some point, there was crossover. I dont know how or in what waybut I think thats a safe explanation.

The others looked at each other. There was so much they couldnt confirm. Shun checked his watch. He spoke in broken English.

We are here fortwenty minutes. Time to go?

My factions going to be looking for me. I have to go, Elena. Are you sure this place is safe?

Once we use the door, well appear elsewhere. Right, Aaron?

The young man nodded.

This is secret. Tell no one. We have two things left. Elena will start with the first.

Elena took a deep breath. She was visibly upset now, and the others fell silent, sensing it. Elena glanced at Erik and he clenched his hands.

Yeah. Youre not going to like this. We shouldnt tell the others, especially the kids. ButErik? What was the news in 2019, when you left?

The German [Actor] hesitated. He bit his lip.

There wereit is in the news. All over. Many things have happened on Earth. But this? It started small. But people think its a conspiracy. There was nearly a war

What?

Haley demanded. For answer, Erik looked at Elena. He didnt want to say it. She took a deep breath.

There aremissing people posters. All over. People noticed kids were going missing. Its just rumors at this point. But there are cases of people going missing in airports.

Theres a video in Melbourne. Security footage. One second everyones therethe nextdozens are missing. And more. There are namesI saw lists. Many families looking for their children. People think its a government. Or aliens.

Or the Rapture.

Elena snorted. But Erik was pale-faced. This was the truth. The others looked at each other in horror.

Oh god. Its been two years. My parents!

A girl spoke up. Her face was white. She turned to Erik.

My family is Walczak. From Warsaw? Did you see them? Are they?

The young man backed up as the room was filled with everyone asking questions about their family. He raised his hands.

Im sorry! I dont know! Im sorry! Its just lists. Its just a conspiracy

Dont they know were missing? What kind of idiots are in the government that they cant see the pattern?

They probably think its another world power. Or damn aliens. Who suspects magic?

They should be able to detect it! Isnt anyone looking? The FBI

Two thousand people go missing every day.

On security footage? Bullshit! Shut up, Ill kill you

Silence!

Aaron shouted. Elena looked at him. The others calmed down. Aaron wished Telim had given him some more calming potions. He needed them.

Thats all Erik knows. Dont bother him. And dont tell the others. Theres nothing we can do. Unless we get access to a way to communicate with Earthwe can do nothing.

But we have to tell them were here. Alive.

Haley whispered. The others nodded. They looked at Aaron.

Blackmage. Can you hack the phones? Weve got computers. Other electronics.

Aaron Vanwell felt the pressure of so many expectations. He shook his head, his shoulders slumping.

Ive tried. All I can do is create a fake network. Theres a resonance between phones. I hijacked that to talk to everyone the first time. I can do it againWistram is trying to boost the signal. But theres nothing from home.

Because they were in another world. You could expand the signal to go thousands of miles. But how could you make it cross dimensions? Or whatever separated them? Aaron had to believethe answer lay at a higher level.

Were trying. For now, well meet up again. Remember, keep it secret. Dont tell anyone with loose lips. No [Mages] know about this. Were in this together. Were not in different factions. Were from Earth.

Elena went around the room, and the others nodded. Some were doubtful; perhaps the word would get out. But they had to try.

Aaron, you said you had one last thing to bring up. What is that?

Jacques looked at Aaron. The [Engineer] took a deep breath.

Imthere might be one ally in Wistram. At least, someone we can trust. He helped me find this room. Ive been asking around, but I cant find a trace of him. If any of you sees himlet me know.

Who is it? A [Mage]?

No. I think hes a ghost. Of an Archmage.

The others fell silent. Elenas eyes narrowed slowly.

You didnt tell me that, Aaron. When did you meet him?

During the winter.

A few of the others looked up slowly. Haley leaned forwards.

I havent seen ghosts. And Ive seen a lot of weird things. But no talking paintings or ghosts. Yet. [Necromancers] are banned in Wistram, or so I hear.

Yeah. That might be why hes hiding. But if you meet himyoull know.

A few raised eyebrows. Shun raised one hand.

Whats his name?

Blackmage glanced up. He spoke the name.

Emerrhain.

The others looked blank. They promised to look out for him. Or check the history books. But that was the funny thing. Aaron was aware that even Wistrams history books didnt go back beyond the tens of thousands of years at most. But hed searched for all this time. And hed never seen the mans name before. But hed known about the secret study and this place.

So what else could he be? Elena stared at Aarons face as the others began to leave the room. And she shivered.

-

Those were the things Earthers did. Plot in secret, have fun, work on their projects, and study magic or their passions. What else were they to do?

In a way, they were doing what all [Mages] did at Wistram. And if they werent allowed to leavethey were treated well. Elena wanted to leave.

But she was a minority. The others would love to leave, to see the wondrous sights or have an adventurebut only for a while. Wistram, as a place to live, was rather fine.

Telim explained it to Aaron the next day. He was having a rather large breakfast. Elena was speaking to a [Gravitationist], a [Mage] interested in testing her solar theories.

Rather wonderful, these. What do you call them?

Nasi goreng. Thats the rice stuff. And theuhquesadilla stuff is aloo paratha.

The man glanced down at what Aaron described as quesadillas. Which nearly made the Punjabi [Cook] throw down with him at that very second. It was actually a flatbread stuffed with a spicy potato interior, served with pickle, butter, yogurt

Mmf. It is tasty. VeryChandrarian, one feels. They like these flatbreads.

Telim was stuffing himself. He ate well; the buffets served to the [Mages] had no limits and Wistram Academy paid for the best foodstuffs. Aaron himself felt full.

Uh, High Mage Telim, so as I was sayingyou really havent left Wistram? Ever?

The big [Mage] waved one hand lazily. He floated some more of the rice over and arranged it on his plate. A spoon rose and he let it feed him while talking.

I visited First Landing and a few other cities over the years. But Ive been a Wistram-[Mage] all my life. I was from Baleros, you know. My family sent me here and, well, once I graduated, I spent a year working at a Mages Guild on a port city in Terandria. Hated it. I came back here and never left again.

Why? Didnt you want to explore?

The man nearly sprayed rice over Aaron.

Explore? My dear Blackmage, the world is a dangerous place! As if young Sidney didnt know thathow is she, by the way?

Good. The sleeping tonic really helped. And the calming one. She actually didnt take her light wand with her this morning.

Although then shed panicked and ran back to get it. But Telims smile was enough to justify the white lie.

Good. Thats good. And as to answer your question, young manI had dreams, of course! I wanted to be an adventurer. ButI was mugged while working at the Mages Guild. Jumped. I didnt have a protection spell on and someone cracked me over the head and left me for dead. And my bed was never as comfortable as it was here. I also earned far less money since I had to spend on food, lodging, travel

He heaved a huge sigh.

No, it wasnt for me. Now, tourism I can get behind. But Wistram is much safer than the outside world. Food is practically free, and I can earn a comfortable living without needing to constantly work or send [Message] spells all day like some kind of cast-mule.

He shuddered. Aaron looked at him curiously.

To his understanding, Telim was essentially the equivalent of acollege professor with tenure, to use an example from the American school system. He was an established [Mage] with a lot of connections and a place on Wistrams Council. He was active politically, but Aaron didnt see how he was allowed to stay here.

Does Wistram allow any [Mage] to juststay, High Mage Telim?

Goodness no! Were rather strict about it, to be honest. I had to work hard to earn my place. But now Ive done thatI can coast, if Im honest. Im a [High Mage]thats a generalist, to youand I do some enchanting work. The academy is happy if I produce five Speak-Quills per month. See?

He proffered the magical quill he made and gave to Wistram to earn his keep. Aaron glanced at it.

What does it do?

Place it on the tablehere. And see.

Telims eyes twinkled. Aaron did that. He saw the quill balance, perfectly upright on the table. Sala moved her plates out of the way with a sigh.

Um, High Mage Telim, I dont see

Um, High Mage Telim, I dont seethe quill instantly copied down Aarons words in a neat scrawl. He blinked.

Thats amazing!

Its just a bit of magic. The stupid thing needs to be reset each line, but they do sell well. Last about a yearor four months if youre using it every day. My own design on the enchantment. You see? And like that, I earned my place here.

Telim plucked the quill up as it copied Blackmages words. He put the quill away dismissively. And Aaron understood.

Telim was a [Mage]. He studied, and made artifacts. But what he really was wasa resident of Wistram. He didnt want to leave.

He was the exact opposite of someone like Archmage Nailihuaile. She had grand ambitions for Earths technology. She wanted to amass more power, to make Wistram more powerful. She had connections abroad.

But the sedentary Telim was actually the largest faction in Wistram, spread across the other factions. The [Mages] who thought everything was pretty good and enjoyed their life as it was. And why not? Wistram Academy ran on secrets because it didnt lack for food, or other resources.

Loafers. Idlers. People content to live and influence the world without rocking the boat. There was something almost addictive about the idea to Aaron.

Right up until Elena leaned over.

So, you dont feel that theres any need to help, say, people in a family, high Mage?

The man turned to look at her. He raised both brows.

Miss Elena, Wistram sends its agents to do good the world over. I myself dont participate, but Ive voted to intercede in any number of issues. We oppose the King of Destruction, warmongers, and all their ilk.

But surely this good can be spread around.

Elena gestured at the buffet. Telim gave her a blank look.

And it will be. But do we need to starve while that happens?

Thats not what I

Sala waved a fork as she ate breakfast. The Selphid smiled at Elena and gestured around the vast dining hall.

Miss Elena, we are an academy. Our job is to study and create magic that benefits the world. We are not a nation. We dont take sides, except against those who would just destroy. Like Flos Reimarch. But Wistram is an international institution. We cant be biased in favor of one nation. Thats how the Council works; we come from all walks of life and only by communal vote do we act. Take Ailendamus versus the Dawn Concordat for instance

She went on. Wistram was international. A place without ties to any one nation. Looked at another way, international meant that you didnt stand for anything except yourself.

That was sometimes how Aaron felt with some of the mages. But at that momentBeatrice, the Dullahan [Runemistress] appeared at the table.

High Mage Telim. Aarons presence is requested by Archmage Nailihuaile.

Oh? Well, I supposed youd better go. Give Naili my best.

Telim waved Aaron off. The young man got up.

What does Naili want? Im still working on the boat

Not that. She wants you immediately. Its private.

Beatrice never smiled. She was an important member of the Revivalists, and a secret-broker, someone who bought and sold valuable secrets. She and Montressa du Valeross had run their business when Aaron had first come here.

However. Beatrice had lost alover. Calvaron. Aaron didnt know the story; Montressa hadnt ever told him the entire thing. But the long and short was that the Dullahan hated [Necromancers] with a passion. And she was even more foul-tempered of late. She had called Montressa a traitor.

UhBeatrice, where are we going?

The Archmages Wing.

She looked at him. Aaron gulped.

-

The Archmages Wing was a name for a section of Wistram taken over by the Archmages. It was meant for their projects, not their living spaces.

In the past, it would have been on the higher floors. But the higher levels were sealed. To go higher, one had to pass Cognitas test.

And the Truestone Golem had killed every [Mage] ever to attempt to challenge her.

She was, in fact, waiting at the door. Beatrice and Aaron froze as the giant, stone woman looked at them.

Cognitas mouth moved. Her eyes fixed on Aaron. She was made of stone, but even her dress moved as she walked. Truestone, a relic of Archmage Zelkyrs power. No [Mage] was truly ever comfortable about her; as Elena had said, Golems could be said to rule Wistram while Cognita guarded the higher floors.

Aaron Vanwell. Your presence is requested.

Cognita. I am bringing him to Archmage Nailihuaile

Beatrice actually backed up as Cognita stepped forwards. The golem towered over both Dullahan and Human; she was eight feet tall. And her face seldom changed.

Another Archmage requests his presence.

Who? Archmage Viltach and Archmage Feor both

Beatrice knew who Cognita must be talking about and froze. Cognita looked at her.

Archmage Amerys has not been formally stripped of her position by Wistrams Council. In accordance with Wistram law, I will convey her requests. Even if she is currently being held in captivity.

The Dullahan [Runemistress] gulped. So did Aaron. He didnt like Amerys. But she had summoned him and Cognita had borne her request. Beatrice raised one finger.

Amerys is a traitor to the academy

She is an Archmage of Wistram until the gathered [Mages] strip her of that honor. Your opinion does not change the truth.

Cognitas voice did not rise. Nor did her face change. But she spoke in such a way that Beatrices words were run over, smashed flat, and ignored. The Dullahan backed up. Cognita looked at Aaron.

I have conveyed her message. Be about your business, Aaron Vanwell.

She nodded and walked off. Aaron saw Beatrice glaring at Cognitas back. The Dullahan was holding onto the wand at her side under her robes. But Cognita hadnt cared.

Follow me.

Beatrice muttered after a second. Aaron followed her.

The doors to the Archmages Wing were sealed unless you had a magical key. Even Cognita didnt have onebut somehow, Blackmage thought that if she really wanted in, the doors wouldnt stop her.

But Beatrice let Aaron into a silent part of Wistram. Only a few [Mages] were allowed in here. And most were gathered in a dark room.

Large pictures were hung on the walls. On canvases, hanging or hovering in the air for the audience to inspect.

They were in theory paintings, but they were more like pictures. Magic had copied the images, and a [Paint Mage] had replicated them with spells. Aaron took one look at them and recoiled.

They were of Antinium. Huge, massive insectile forms sat in their Hives, surrounded by drones and soldier-ants. Queens. Each shot showcased the innards of the Hive, or something interesting. An Azure Antinium, a giant winged one speaking up to a broken Queena little Worker trundling a huge cart of food to another Queen

Ah, Aaron! Youre here. Thank you, Beatrice.

Archmage Nailihuaile turned and smiled brightly. Beatrice bowed stiffly, holding her head in her hands.

Archmage Naili, Cognita was waiting outside the wing. Amerys has summoned Aaron Vanwell.

The Star Lamia froze for a second. Her magical staffan artifact of her people, tapped on the ground.

Other figures in the audience turned. Archmage Feor, his hair white, frowned. The half-Elf was among the oldest of Wistrams members by far. Naili hesitated, her slitted, lizard-like eyelids flickering.

Cognita said that? Darn. I guess Aaron will have to go. Later. Its better than getting into an argument with Cognita. You know how she is. Youll take him, Beatrice. Ill send word.

Yes, Archmage.

Come here, Aaron. How are you doing? Thanks for helping with the presentations the other day, by the way. I loved Elena throwing the canvasses. And Saif made everyone so upset. I got all kinds of complaints, but if he won, he won, right? Did you have a good breakfast?

Archmage Nailihuaile was a social being. Like many Lizardfolk, really. She chattered. Aaron answered her distractedly as he made his way to an inner circle of three.

Yes, Archmage Naili. UhSaif says hed like to keep running the simulations, but he needs more ammunition.

Well, were having it made and we can always enchant more of those canisters. Lets do it. And its good practice for the idiots who think they can walk around on a battlefield!

Naili grinned. Shed been one of the first people to test Saifs skills and he hadnt ever managed to hit her. The Archmage had seen actual combat.

The question is whether these battles would mimic reality in any meaningful way. [Mages] dont need to dodge. Our [Barrier] spells would block bullets.

Archmage Viltach snorted impatiently. Naili rolled her eyes as Feor made room for Blackmage. Aaron stood among three Archmages of Wistram. He was the first Earther. And as suchthey often summoned him and him alone.

Viltach, if any of the stories from Earth are true, thats the smallest weapon they have. And most of our idiots dont even make all-encompassing shields.

It wastes mana and weakens the field.

Well, dont say our shields can block bullets when Saif shoots your Libertarians in the ass.

The Lamia smiled smugly at Viltachs dark expression. Before he could respond, Feor cleared his throat.

Simulations of higher-grade weapons are unavailable as well, Viltach, Nailihuaile. Let us just take this as a lesson that our [Battlemages] need more practice on the actual battlefield. Thesesimulations provide entertainment, if nothing else.

In that we are agreed. Lend Saif to my faction, Nailihuaile.

Bite me, Viltach. Give us Eun for two days and Ill give you Saif for one game.

That is not equitable

Saifs got his games. What have your Earthers come up with?

Archmages.

The two bickering Archmages fell silent as Feors eyes flashed. The half-Elfs presence was stronger than both Viltach and Nailis. Even Aaron could tell that. Although Naili had her staff, which equalized any matchup.

And the Archmages did fight. Not often, but it had happened. Aaron had heard that when the three confronted Amerys she had called down a storm of lightning bolts across Wistrams exterior. And that had just been the opening salvo.

But the three were united, at least in this. Feor gestured at the paintings.

Aaron Vanwell. Good morning. Do you know what these pictures are?

Aaron stared up at the images of the Antinium.

The interiors of the Hives?

The Human Archmage folded his arms in distaste. He shook his head, repulsed by the image of the gigantic Queens.

Yes. All six of them. They are viewing the Wistramtelevision.

He pronounced the words awkwardly. Naili smiled.

WNN. Wistram News Network!

I thought we agreed to call it World Wide News.

The point is that ouraccessruns two ways. We have limited our observation. Rumors are already spreading. But we have obtained these images of the interiors of the Antinium Hives. As well as other valuable information.

The Archmages nodded at each other. Aaron shifted. But for this, he might have dismissed Elenas fears out of hand. But thisessentiallywas everything conspiracy theories were made of in his world.

Wistram watched through the scrying orbs. Blackmage hadnt suggested this. Hed objectedhard, in fact. But the [Mages] had been delighted by the idea.

It seems Niers Astoragon, the heads of the Four Great Companies, among others, have found out. And word is spreading from ruler to ruler. We are denying allegations of course, but this is costing us politically. Ive been smoothing feathers in Terandria. Those damn [Illusionists] did not help.

Viltach informed the others. The two nodded absently.

I consider it worth the cost considering we got this. But lets scale back the observation, shall we? The Seer of Steel has already lodged a formal complaint. We dont need him making it public

We will be more covert. However, thisAaron Vanwell. Tell us more about the ability of your devices. The camera functions.

The three Archmages turned to Aaron. And there it was. He gulped.

Umwhat about them? Ive showed you the video and camera functions.

Ifwe were to teleport a device into a room. Like the Grand Queens Hivehow covert would it be?

Viltach studied Aaron. And Blackmage was sure they were casting [Detect Lies]. He didnt need to lie, though. The truth was the truth.

Idont know how youd see the screen.

We cant send the information back here?

Maybe with a call? But youd have to access the phone. And keep it charged on the other end.

Could weset it to record, send it over, and see what it picks up?

The young man shrugged.

Maybe with audio? I guess that works.

The three Archmages conferred.

Not much better than an eavesdropping spell.

But they wont pick it up with magic. That Azure Antinium was onto us, Im convinced. Xrn the Small Queen.

Feor stared long at the image of Xrn. Where Naili was interested and antagonistic and Viltach just disgusted, Feor lookedinterested.

Yes. An accomplished spellcaster. But the point remains. Can the Antinium pick up thisdevice, Aaron Vanwell?

I dont know. If the screen is on itd be obvious. Aside from that, itll be justquiet. Unless someone calls it or theres an alarm on it.

Naili tapped her staff on the ground, thinking.

Seems risky. I dont like it. Lets not tip our claws, boys.

The other two looked at her.

It is possible the Antinium could sense the electricity in the device. I cast my vote against as well, Viltach.

Its worth the risk! If the other three Archmages were here

Once we get them here. Theyre missing all the fun with Earth.

Nailis eyes glittered. Viltach nodded curtly. He looked back at the images of the Antinium and cursed.

Wellwhat do we do with these?

Give them to the Drakes. They are still the best images of what the Hives look like by far. And some of the information we have recordedis intriguing.

Feor stroked at his white beard. He stared at Garry, with the poofy hat on his head, frowning with obvious confusion. Viltach just shook his head.

That damned Reinhart. Shes depreciated the value of this information considerably with her stunt.

We have estimates of the other Hives. But I agree; this isnt the landmark thing we wanted. And the Drakes will ask if weve been watching them. Which we have. I vote not to send.

Me as well. Lets observe until we have something worth more. If the information leaks, the Antinium will stop using the orbs, Feor. And the Drakes have loose lips.

The half-Elf Archmage sighed, but he had been overruled in this new vote. The three turned away from the painting and their followers backed up.

Very well. Onto more pressing matters, then. This issue of the Golden Triangle.

The three Archmages paused. Naili sighed.

The Elusive Lot have been up to their tricks. I hear words spreading from Pallass. Grand Strategist Chaldion is crying the alarm. We cant pretend ignorance. Its time to act.

Who?

Viltach just looked blank. He sighed.

A high-ranking Drake? It would have been easier to let the Golden Triangle bleed some of the more objectionable idiots dry.

Its going to destabilize the economy, Viltach. I was hoping the King of Destruction would get onto itbut I think the Ullsinoi objected.

Those idiots. We need to put a leash on them.

He looked around for support, but Feor waved an ambivalent hand. Naili shook her head.

You do it with the Councils vote. Im not having them causing actual trouble. We need to jump on this, Viltach. Feor?

Agreed. Its caused enough trouble.

The two Archmages turned to Blackmage as Viltach gritted his teeth. Two non-Humans versus one Human. He had been talking about summoning the other Archmagesprobably to win more of these votes, Aaron guessed.

But Feor was now fixing Aaron with a silvery gaze and the young man gulped. Feor had not been pleased by his defection. Still, his voice was level.

Aaron Vanwell. Are you sure this is a fraud attempt by a fellow Earther? Our agents have investigated, and there is no evidence these adventurer teams exist. Ullsinoi is sure, but we must be absolutely sure when we speak as Wistram Academy.

ImIm sure, Archmage Feor. Elena, all the others agree. Its a pyramid scheme. Its one of us doing it. Probably. Id put money on it.

Better that than this scheme. You heard him, Feor. Today?

The half-Elf passed a hand over his face. He sighed, wearily.

Today. Let us contactSir Relz and Noass.

Noass. Heh.

The two Archmages looked at Nailihuaile. And like that, they were done with Aaron. Beatrice took him away as they turned to discussing Jecrass.

King Raelt will fall. The question is: do we rescue him or let him fight to the last? Does Chandrar need martyrs?

Flos has killed hundreds of martyrs. I vote we try to help

-

The Archmages were like that. Schemers. Even if it was cheerfully like Nailithey made decisions that impacted the world. The very definition of the Illuminati, really. Aaron wanted to believe they werent evil people.

But that wasnt the point, was it? What Elena hated was the idea of anyone having that kind of power.

This world was made of levels and classes, though. One person having more power was how this world worked. You had to remember that. And if you had no power?

The Fourth Archmage of Wistram sat in a cell. Her arms and legs were bound in a type of magical straightjacket. Chains had been attached to her legs and body, and the bars on her cell were almost unnecessary.

But they were still there, and the two [Mages] guarding Archmage Amerys at every moment were not happy to let Aaron talk with her.

Cognita insists.

Beatrice told them, and that was that. They had orders not to let anyone but an Archmage see Amerys. Her captivity was a secret in Wistram. Some of the highest-ranking [Mages] knew, but the public did not.

She sat there, eyes burning, gagged as well. That was new.

Whys she gagged?

She bit the fingers off one of the [Mages] serving her food. You want to speak to her? You have to remove the gag. Shes tied up even more now. But watch out.

The half-Elf grimaced. Aaron stared at her.

Then, with great trepidation, he approached Amerys. She stared up at him. Her mouth was bound, but he thought she was smiling.

Archmage? Im going to remove your gag. Please dont bite me.

She made no move. Slowly, Blackmage untied the gag around her mouth. He saw the Archmage move

Amerys teeth snapped together and the young man fell onto his back, scrambling away with a shout. The two [Mages] raised their staffs, but the lightning-mage just laughed. And then coughed.

She hadnt really gone for his fingers. But as Blackmage had observedArchmage Amerys was sort of a jerk.

Talk to me, boy.

That was all she said. The Archmage of Chandrar coughed as Aaron slowly approached. One of the [Mages] motioned.

She can have water. But dont let her drink out of anything but this.

A wood straw in a wood cup. Aaron eyed Amerys. She grinned at him.

Lightning runs in my body. I would have killed Viltach if this room wasnt shockproof. I spat water at him.

He shuddered. Amerys was dangerous. Unlike Viltach, or Feor, who were more academics, Amerys had gained her levels from war. Even Nailihuaile didnt compare. He slowly offered her the cup.

Please dont spit.

She drank from the straw, coughed again.

Dont worry, boy. Im not interested in your life. I wouldnt have anyone else to talk to, anyways. Cognita lets me summon you. Not the others.

I think the Archmages wouldnt like that.

Elena would love to talk to Amerys, but Feor would flip. Amerys nodded, grinning. Her skin was dark; she was native Chandrarian, and her eyes seemed to sparkle even in her magical cuffs.

I know. But what does Cognita want, hm? Thats the only question that matters.

The two [Mages] and Beatrice all shifted uncomfortably. Aaron looked at Amerys.

Are youdoing well?

She sighed. And some of the edge faded from her tone. She sat back, more comfortably, and spoke to Aaron as he served her some of the food. It wasnt dried bread and nothing else; it was this mornings rice. Wistram wasnt monstrous. The bindings were mostly because Amerys kept attacking her captors.

I havent gone crazy yet, bratling. And I could leave here at any time. If I renounce my lord, turn my back on Reim, and swear in blood to serve only the academy.

Her tone made it clear shed rather go crazy first. Aaron sat there.

My names Aaron Vanwell.

Sure.

She stared at him. The young man felt annoyed. Hed told her every visit and she refused to even remember it.

I dont have to come here. Is politeness dead on Chandrar?

The lightning mage laughed at him. Her eyes focused on him, and the pupils were unnervingly intense.

You want me to remember your name, boy? Earn that right. Youre a child who hasnt seen war. You dont know what the world outside of Wistram is. Tell mehave your comrades told you what they endured to get here? Feor tells me there are more, every week now.

Aaron hesitated. The memory of Basil, Sidneys stories flashed across his face. And Amerys saw.

Thats right. They know what death and glory look like. Youre just a child.

I dont have to take this.

Blackmage stood up hotly. Amerys laughed as he stormed towards the cells opening.

Im the only Archmage in Wistram who tells you the truth! Run away if youre craven! But youll be back!

She was right. They made him go back to put her gag back on. Aaron stomped into the cell and glared at her.

You could make these chats more pleasant, you know.

She shrugged awkwardly. Amerys voice became contemplative.

I could try. But even before I was a captive, no one ever called me kind. My lord said that I oft reminded him of a cactus that spat needles. Have you ever seen one?

No. It sounds horrible.

I rather liked the compliment.

Her voice was wistful. She shook her head slightly.

Anyways, I often clashed with Orthenon. He is as stubborn as a goat. Or Gazi. Mars I got on fine with. Drevish I liked. Ah, but to be with the Seven. Or however many remain. I hear Drevish was killed.

She spoke of the Kings Seven. Of Chandrar. And she often asked him for news. Aaron sat with Amerys as she rambled.

I hear he rides against Jecrass, my [King] of war. He needs me, you know.

Really?

Oh yes. Parasol Stroll marches with them and he has stolen a [Grand Mage] of Belchan. All well and good, but I am his hammer of magecraft. Without me, his armies suffer. I am the most destructive of the Seven in combat. The most fragile as well. But we are all needed. Without Drevish, no grand cities shall be built, no walls to break his foes. Without Tottenval, how will Reim feed its armies? And Queraviaher genius would have felled Jecrass two weeks hence!

She sighed. And stared at Aaron.

Will you set me free?

The woman mouthed that. Aaron stared at her. He half-shook his head.

She asked. Of course she asked. And he was certain that Feor, Naili, Beatrice and everyone else watched him like a hawk. Even if he had his shock-glove, he doubted he could have freed her anyways. The magical bindings were beyond powerful. You couldnt sever them with power tools.

Im sorry, Archmage Amerys. Ithank you for helping me with the batteries.

It was my pleasure. I am bored to death, here. Do your lightning-machines run on it?

Im actually trying. But Iuhdestroyed an iPhone.

Even trying to convert the raw power of the magicore batteries Amerys had helped him make had overloaded the iPhone. Now Aaron had a lot of partsand a very unhappy Earther. Hed been working on the sailboat by way of recompense.

Lamonts boat is coming along. Itll be a magical sailboat.

Amerys smiled. Blackmage and Naili had been working on the project for the [Sailor], who had crewed a ship before being found. He wanted a small sailboat to sail around Wistrams safe harborsbut with a twist. Magical wind would blow into the sail forever. Normally youd need an [Aeromancer] to do that, but Naili had created a spell to do it.

The only issue was powering the spell. You needed magic. So Blackmage had installed a magicore batterythe same one that powered the Shock Orb hed given Montressa.

A childrens toy.

You could go pretty far with it.

But not cross an ocean. Aaron had seen the waves outside of Wistram Academy and theyd crush this boat if it came to a storm. Amerys nodded.

A ship enchanted with this would work. In fact, such ships existed. Many [Captains] used wind-magic like this. Blackmage wasnt inventing the wheelor sail as the case may be. He was just making the magical technology available for all with his battery.

A ship was out of the question. It was too hard to work on a secret project of that magnitude. Aaron had spirited away a few of the batteries, made a copy of the shock-glove that could emit a lot of electricity. Yethe couldnt envision a scenario where he defeated an Archmage.

Lets talk about news. Uhthere was this thing in therapy

He told her the story of High Mage Telim. That did make Amerys smile.

That fat buffoon? He has a kind heart. Hes like you.

Aaron didnt appreciate the comparison.

Is hehes a [High Mage], though, right?

A generalist. Hes not bad. But lazy. He is a genius when it comes to the minutiae of spells. Making the speech-quills was his great achievement. Some exist, but he reinvented them. Imagine how difficult that is. Each word you speak is transcribed. Each letter. That is his genius, in those small things. Not in casting lightning bolts.

Blackmage nodded slowly. He saw Amerys trying to scratch at something on her chin. Then she gave up.

Ah. Another crop of students comes for the summer. Months pass and I am slowly going insane. I may bite my tongue of frustration.

She sat there, seething, but helpless. Aaron looked at her.

Youll never accept Nailis offer? Or the others?

The Archmage of Lightning laughed. Kindly, this time. She shook her head at him.

Have youno, boy. Youve never met someone you really respect, have you? Someone worth dying for? That is my [King]. I will wait. And should it take him razing Wistram stone by stone to free me, he will do so. Or die. And if he diesI will be Wistrams pet. But those are the only options for me.

She looked somberly at Aaron, ignoring the uncomfortable [Mages] listening in. He nodded.

But it might take years.

It might. And I might crack in half before he arrives. But I do not think so. Live or dieFlos Reimarch, my King of Reim is coming. I am a poor damsel in distress, boy. But I can wait. And do you know why?

Blackmage shook his head. Amerys leaned forwards and her eyes glittered.

I take heart and cling to sanity in my cell because my king shares one trait with me. He is not a patient man.

She laughed, softly. Then Amerys told Aaron how to convert electricity into a weaker form, to bind it. And bid him go until next time. He left, a bit worried that of all the Archmageshe might like her the most. She was always honest with him.

And she was also a bit of a jerk. Next time hed borrow a laptop and show her a movie.

-

Later that day, Aaron Vanwell wrote a letter to Joseph. It took him six tries. Not because he was particularly bad or fussy over the letter. It was just that he wasnt the one fussing.

Dear Joseph

Do you think maybe thats too formal? What about Hey Joseph!.

The young man slowly crossed out the top line and wrote again.

Hey, Joseph

Wait, no, that was just a suggestion. Im just tossing them out there. Dont take all of mine at once!

Nailihuaile saw Aaron look up with a pained expression. She hesitated.

Let me get you a magical quill.

But even with dictation she fussed over his letter to Joseph. Aaron wouldve just said hey Joseph, Im from Wistram. Youre clearly from Earth. Come on over; theres free food. Bring your soccer ball.

That worked for him, but Nailihuaile wanted a crafted letter to convince Joseph to leave the Ullsinoi factionwhom she was convinced were sheltering him at Liscorand come to the Revivalists.

Okay, thatll do. We need multiple letters! Everyone from our faction is sending one! I bet Viltach and Feor are doing the same! But Montressa can deliver these herself! Thanks, Aaron! Are you sure we have enough soccer-talk?

I like baseball more.

Aaron grumbled as Naili slithered out of his room with the letters. He sighed. Politics. But the soccer game

Why couldnt life be fun? He pulled out his armor-project, which was him trying to make a suit of armor that would encase a magicore battery. In theory, a [Mage] could run around with all the power of plate armor but none of the limitations.

That was to sayit was damn hard to cast spells in armor. It messed with your magical field. However, if you had two discharge stations on, say, the gloves, you could focus lightning bolts while drawing on your internal mana and the battery.

It wouldnt be perfect, and if the enemy was made of rubber youd be in trouble. But it was an idea.

Still, Aaron wasnt in the mood for it. After a few minutes of tinkering, he gave up. Here he was, trying to make something that wouldwould

Protect people. Make them more deadly in combat. But who was he making it for? He wasnt going to be able to take it outside of Wistram any time soon.

A while ago, Aaron had been helping find Earthers. Hed felt good about that, locating them, bringing them here. Hed even helped the others. Not batman, but Carahed send her artifacts that had helped her rise to her status as Singer of Terandria. Heck, hed convinced Nailihuaile to design the song-crystals! Where were his royalties on that?

The truth was that Aaron wanted to do more. More, than just sit here. He liked inventing things. But his inventions had to be put to good use. After listening to the stories of the outside, he was almost okay with not putting his neck on the line.

And still.

-

High Mage Telim was sitting in front of the scrying orb with a number of other [Mages]. There were several viewing stations set up across the academy. They might produce the WNNWistram News Network, but it was still a fascination to them.

They were watching soccer. Aaron felt his spirits rise as he saw the game being played.

Is this a rerun?

Not at all. This is a match betweenI think its Pallass and another local city? Not Liscor. See? Theyve already made these teams. I say! Look at that Drake go!

A flying Drake dove out of the skies and gave the soccer ball a tremendous kick. A group of Drakes went running after it and a female Drake was commentating.

Big shot from Xess! But I thinkI think its out of bounds! Yes! Aerial tactics arent good if you cant kick the ball!

The crowd booed as a penalty shot was set up. Aaron watched as Drassi, the newly-minted sports reporter kept shouting into her speaking stone. Shed replaced Sir Relz and Noass and apparently been hired for this moment.

Aim! Im taking a break from my day-job to watch a good game, not some idiots kicking the ball sideways! I know a Gnoll kid who can kick the ball straight! Speaking of which, I hear Selisel is complaining about so many fliers on Pallass team.

She pointed. Three Drakes and two Garuda were in the air compared to the one from the other, smaller Drake city. Drassi went on.

We have a kickoh, and the fliers are going after it! Honestly, I dont think flying makes you better per se. If the ball is on the ground, a flier has to land. And they still have to aim! Now, if they juggle the ball in the air, thats different. Maybe make a rule saying only two aerial passes? Anywaysoh! Great shot down the middle, but its blocked and coming back our wayduck!

The soccer ball shot towards the stands. The crowd ducked, but the ball bounced off a magical shield. Drassi crawled back up.

Penalty! Hey Pallass! Learn to control the ball! Yeah, you heard me! Want me to get Ekirra to show you how to kick? Hes 7!

Blackmage grinned as Drassi waved and shouted at one of the fliers, who was taking objection to this commentary. He saw the other [Mages] laughing too, but they were focused on the game.

Fifty gold and a small secret says Pallass takes it. Any takers?

Sala looked around. Instantly, another Drake snorted.

That Drake is right. Those fliers dont have their wings. If it was an all-Garuda team, theyd have more control. But Drakes dont learn flight from birth. Believe me. Ill take your wager.

How about two middling secrets on Pallass?

Ill take that bet.

The [Mages] were putting down money, whatever they had in their pocketsAaron saw one bet consisting of twelve gold pieces, a magic ring, and a slightly-stale quiche. He turned to Telim.

Are you all betting on the game?

Only naturally. Its fun to watch. How are you today, young Aaron? The Archmages not keeping you running about?

The [High Mage] was taking his easeas he had been the entire day. Aaron shrugged.

A bit. Are younot working?

What on?

The magic quills

Oh, those. I can make five in five days. Dont tell the academy.

Telim waved that off. Blackmage stared at him. Then he abruptly sat down.

You dont think you could make more?

The bearded man snorted.

You sound like Miss Elena. I could, but I dont sell the quills. And even if I didId ruin [Scribes]. The quills are useful for the rich, but lets not ruin an entire class, hm?

Aaron thought about typewriters, and the proliferation of the written word. A [Scribe] could copy a book, but what about a printing press?

Dont you think it would be more convenient tomake something?

Telim tapped the side of his nose.

Ah, but what? A [Scribe] at high levels can write faster than my quills, young Aaron. Your worlds technology can make things more efficient, I grant you, but at higher levels we surpass your world. Yourlittle gadgets are something that make things convenient for all.

That was true. Aaron nodded. Telim went on.

Howeverthe academy is not interested in making things convenient. If we can do it already, why waste time and money working on the same? I regret to say thats why your submission for your project involving thesebicycles was turned down. We have magic carpets.

But if we had a car or other means of transport

Aaron raised his voice in protest. Part of the problem was that without funding, you couldnt get anything done. With it? Nailihuaile or a high-level [Mage] would enchant whatever you needed. Youd get funding, suppliesAaron had been drowning in magicore and different metals when he made the first battery and shock orb. But it dried up for projects like the boat. Hed had to beg Naili for even that wind spell.

Telim just patted Aaron on the back.

Lack of interest, young man. Were not interested in reinventing the wheel when we can fly. I admire the cause, but let me give you some advice: if you want to make something that will earn you funding, make something that appeals to us.

He gestured at the other lazy [Mages]. And the [High Mage] lowered his voice conspiratorially.

And then, take twice as long on the project and ask for double, triple what you need. Thats how you fund your little side-projects.

He winked at Aaron. The young man felt like he was learning a terrible life lesson. But he took it to heart and looked at the soccer game. He had a sudden idea and his eyes lit up.

You know, in Earth, theres a betting system. Across the world! What if we made one

Too late.

Telim snapped his fingers, jovially. Aaron looked at him.

What?

We have a system of betting. [Bookkeepers] around the world are using [Message] spells to place bets. I put eighty gold on Pallass to win at good odds. And they are letting me down!

He roared at the screen. Aaron sighed.

What about making aa federation of soccer teams?

Isnt that what were seeing?

Telim gave Aaron a blank look. Blackmage frowned.

Football. Ive got it! Ill bring football to this world!

I thought that was this game.

Sala leaned over. Aaron shot to his feet.

No! American football! Its this game with thisdifferent ball. And you carry it

He was excited. Take the funding, make his other projects! Telim listened for five seconds, and then raised a hand.

Ah. Young Basil is doing that. You mean, rugby. And someone is doing a basket-ball game too. And hockey.

The young [Engineer] faltered.

They are?

The problem with being from Earth in Wistram was that he wasnt alone anymore. It turned out that after seeing the soccer gameevery other Earther in Wistram had promptly recalled other sports. They were bringing in rugby, hockey, baseball (not knowing Liscor already had that game), ping pong from Shuns groupcurling had been suggested, but none of the factions had been interested in funding the project.

Aaron saw all his funding ideas dry up. He sat back down as Telim explained that Wistram would be disseminating the games, trial-running them in the academy and then seeding the ideas in other parts of the world.

A noble effort, Aaron. But you have to be fast on the ball to secure funding in this academy.

He smiled at Blackmage, not unkindly. Aaron sat there. It was just stealing from Earth, anyways. He wouldnt have been proud of that.

Maybe Ill just try copying Saifs airsoft gun again. Then we could have matches.

He muttered. Telim looked interested.

That would be entertaining. You could probably get some funding for thatbut you wouldnt be able to fudge the numbers. Recreating an object is hard to lie about.

Darn.

Have some of this lovely avocado. Avocado. I thought we called them Getal fruits, Sala?

Thats what we call them in Baleros, Telim.

Hm. Oh well.

Telim chewed on the avocado, lightly seasoned and warm. Delicious when spread, really. He spoke to Aaron conversationally.

You could always approach a single magus for funding, Aaron. Im sure some of the seafarers would like your magical boat-thing. A Drownedfolk [Mage], perhaps. I could introduce you. But I myself wouldnt fund it. And I could put money into a project. One accumulates wealth as they rise in Wistrams ranks over time. But Im not much for being shot in the groin by that gun-thing.

That was fair. Aaron sighed.

I just want a copy. It could be fun. Ora wand-gun. But thats just a wand strapped to a frame.

Not exactly technologically advanced. What is the problem with a good old-fashioned wand? I grant you, its not as quick as that pistol-thing, but

Telim flicked his wand out and shot a spell. It hit a Dullahan in the back and knocked her head clean off her body. Her head landed on the floor and she shouted.

Ow! Who did that?

The [High Mage] hurriedly hid the wand. Aaron hid a smile as Telim pointed to a student who had just run off and the Dullahan raced off in a fury. Aaron looked at the raccoon-bearded man.

I dont want a gun to kill people. Thats why I refused to upgrade Saifs gun. Not that I could. I dont know how to make gunpowder.

And George was refusing to let on that he knew. Aaron went on as Telim nodded with one ear, the rest focused on the losing Pallass team.

But itd befun, you know? To try to be aa hero with a wand.

Didnt everyone dream of fighting undead with a wand, or blasting spells at their enemies? Shooting guns at aliens was the basis of a lot of the first videogames. Telim looked at Aaron and his eyes lit up.

Young man, that is exactly how I felt decades ago. And then I got mugged. But I understand completely. Id love to try my spells on some vast beast

He flicked the wand out and then looked for the Dullahan [Mage] and hurriedly put it away. Aaron smiled.

I wish an adventure could besafe. Ohwait! There is something like that from Earth.

He stood up. Telim blinked as Aaron hurried off. Then he went back to watching the game.

-

Pallass lost. Much to the dismay of the Walled City, which should not lose because it was a Walled City, yknow? Telim was grumbling about wasted gold when Blackmage came back with a laptop.

High Mage, look at this.

He had a videogame on it. Just a basic one. Halo CE. Aaron wasnt the best gamer, but Telim, Sala, and a bunch of [Mages] crowded around as he ran through one of the levels.

Good gracious! What colors!

Duck! Duck!

Is that like Saifs rifle? What horrible monsters!

The [Mages] were greatly entertained. Some had seen video games, though, and Telim had even watched a few moviesthe Earthers tech wasnt restricted. Attempts to copy the laptops had all failed, though.

A fascinating game. Yes, I could just wish to teleport into that game and see those beasts dodge a [Fireball]!

He waved his wand and everyone around him leaned back. But then Telim caught himself.

Yet my aim is shoddy and I know Id die, Aaron, even with precautions. Real combat is never so polite. I know my limits. My goodness, even Archmage Feor once took a punch from this rather muscular Drake in an actual duel. And he stands at the top of magical talent. I think he broke a rib. Imagine what would happen if Id taken the same?

He looked a bit sad as he said that. He understood Aarons dream. But he was practicalin some ways, more realistic than Aaron.

Blackmage nodded. He closed the laptop, sighing. And thenwellhad a thought.

The young man looked at Telim, wistfully flipping up the writing-quills hed developed himself. And then, he spotted Galei, who was whistling as he walked off to tempt some other [Mages] with some tickets for The Players of Celum. He looked at his laptop and thought of Saif.

And he had it.

Mage Galei! Excuse me! Mage Galei!

Aaron went running after the Centaur. He nearly ran into the Centaurand collided with a young Lizardgirl.

Taxiela fell to the ground with a squeak. Aaron stumbled, extended a hand. He wasnt sure if it was Taxiela; he could have run into an illusion; good [Illusionists] could make a fake rock wall into almost the real thing.

Im sorryuhTaxiela?

Hello, Aaron Vanwell! How are you doing?

The Lizardgirl vanished. Galei trotted around Aaron and grinned at him. Even Aaron, used to [Mages], had to recollect himself.

I uhI was hoping to chat, Mage Galei

Yes, about Joseph? Property of the Ullsinoi, Im afraid. But if youd like to talk, I can do that. But its give and take. Tell Naili that, if she sent you.

The [Illusionist], Palts master, chuckled. Aaron shook his head.

Actually, Mage GaleiI was hoping youd be interested in funding one of my projects.

The Centaur blinked. The Ullsinoi faction hadnt funded any Earther projects so far. Nor had they been awarded any Earthers. They had power, but it wasnt in the Council or politically. They were the dark sheep of Wistram, with the understanding that said sheep sometimes stole all the underwear of all the [Mages] in Wistram and tossed it into the sea. Because it was funny.

Interesting. What makes you think the Ullsinoi faction would back your projects? All the other factions have money to burn. But we tend to want things we can use. No little skirmishes with Saif. No prototypes. The real thing.

The Centaur and Blackmage stood in a black room. Enclosed in all sides. A privacy box. Aaron looked around, blinking. Then he replied to the Centaur standing there, watching him with amused eyes.

Thats true, Mage Galei. Most of what we do isnt worth much. And I dont want to mass-produce Saifs guns. Or even the shock orbs.

No taste for warfare? I can respect that. But thenwhat?

The Centaur trotted around Aaron, nodding. And the young man spread his arms.

Fun, Mage Galei. Shouldnt life have a bit of fun?

He heard laughter. The Centaur threw back his head and laughed.

Well said, young man! What is life if not to be enjoyed? But we have all kinds of entertainment. Soccer, playswhat could you add?

Combat. Adventure. Action.

The Centaur vanished. A Lizardgirl sat on a tree branch. Aaron turned. The [Illusionist] winked at him.

Gladiator arenas. Pit fights. Youre saying nothing new, young man.

Those still hurt people. And I cant take part in them. Im talkingabout something else, Mage Galei. Your world might have it. But I dont think you have my worlds vision.

Blackmage took a breath. He was no hero. He was no ones guy, the one they turned to. But he could change the world. Becausehe did have passions.

Im talking about videogames. Virtual reality. Holograms. Mage Galei. Have you ever tried to create an illusion you could fight?

The mages eyes glinted.

Of course. [Mages] train like that all the time. Ive used illusions as a distraction. Whats new about that?

Aaron smiled. He spread his arms wide.

Only a few things. I hear Mage Telim is an expert at programming minute details into spells. Have you ever imagineda scenario? One where you get to fight and live out a dream without ever being in danger? Mage Taxiela, would you pay for that? And if you wouldhow many people would pay for it as well?

The [Illusionist] paused on her perch on the tree. And then she laughed. Aaron felt a clawed hand on his shoulder. He turnedand a Garuda woman leaned forwards. Her feathers were black, save for white on her wingtips. Her eyes were a dusky yellow. She winked at him.

Tell me more.

-

The hallway was dark. Quiet. The stone floor covered with moss was slippery underfoot, and Blackmage steadied himself as he raised his glowing wand. He could not slip here.

Ahead of him, he heard chattering bones. Skeletal figures moved down the hallway, peeking at him with glowing eyes. He turned, hearing more movement. They were flanking him. Blackmage raised his wand

Telim attacked the darkness.

[Lightning Bolt]! Oho!

He shot a blast of crackling lightning past Aarons shoulder. The young man dove.

Holy fuck!

The blast of lighting knocked a group of skeletons to pieces. The impact and searing ozone left a stench in the air as Aaron scrambled to his feet.

To arms! The undead are attacking!

Telim shot [Light Arrows] at the zombies and skeletons racing at them. Aaron turned, pointed his glove, and focused.

Unleash

The entire battery discharged as his metal glove rose. The lightning arced forwards as he willed it and hit the undead horde.

The spell was real. The monsters illusory. There was a momentary flicker as the spell tried to keep up, and then the undead exploded.

I say! Thats a great spell! Just, er, dont hit me with it! From the left!

Telim, puffing, aimed his wand left. More undead coming down the corridor. Leaping Ghouls. His [Fireball] blew them to bits. Aaron laughed with adrenaline. He turned, wand ready

A skeletal thing dropped off the ceiling. It landed on Aaron and he got one chance to scream. Telim whirled, as the thing reached down and bit

Out! Aarons dead!

The illusion froze for a moment. Aaron, flailing wildly, looked around and saw Saif, Galei in his Centaur form, and Mage Yerzhen and two more of the Elusive Lot waving at him. Shamefaced, he crawled away as Telim puffed.

Do Ido I go after it resumes?

Yup! Starting in five, four, three

The illusion resumed. Telim blasted the bone-thing away and whirled. He did pretty well. As the audience watched from the viewing platforms, the [High Mage] proceeded to blast undead around. Of course, they were illusions, but programmed with a bit of weight behind them. Spells passed through, but they were programmed to simulate the hits.

Telim had done that. He really did have the minutiae down. The Elusive Lot had come up with the spells.

Well have to work on permanent versions. Old Telims really letting them have it. I didnt know he knew that many combat spells.

Galei chortled as he ate popcorn and watched. Yerzhen nodded. He grinned.

Uh oh! There comes the Bone Giant! And the Ghouls. He doesnt see them. I thinkout!

The Ghouls got Telim as he tried to blast the Bone Giant in the boss room. The [Mage] was sweating liberally and panting, but he looked ecstatic.

What a scenario! I say! Can we go again?

As the illusions faded, Aaron eyed the skirmish room. Telims spells had blasted around the room.

I think we need to talk about protective gear to avoid friendly fire, High Mage. And reinforcing the walls?

The man looked abashed. But he was as excited as Saif and Blackmage.

Hey, can we make my gun work on the simulation?

Shouldnt be too hard. The illusions are just registering hits. If we tweak the spellits like hit points, Saif. Only they take into account the intensity. But we can probably make a fake version and give people wands that simulate spells.

And the real adventurers can even fight monsters. Imagine it! Practice fighting Crelers! Oror live out a dungeon experience! Dead gods, but the nobility will pay for these entertainments!

Telim mopped at his brow. The Elusive Lot were nodding.

I see money in this.

Galei rubbed his hands together, grinning. Aaron looked around. The virtual reality games hed proposed had their early backers. And he had no doubt that the other factions would get behind it.

Its not the biggest thing. But itll do.

The young man muttered to himself. And they needed him. Even the Elusive Lot, who could do the illusions, and Telim didnt have the idea of making reality into games. But Blackmage had played tabletop games, video games. Heck, his nickname came from a comic.

He looked around. It was a fantasy in a fantasy world. But that was alright. He looked at Telim.

Can we talk funding then, [Mages]? Ill try not to overcharge you, but the development might be expensivefor other factions.

The [High Mage] laughed. Blackmage, Aaron Vanwell, made a friend. And that night

-

That night, the usual broadcast from Wistram Academy changed. A [Message] spell on high-alert was sent to all of Izril and Terandria, where the issue was greatest. People tuned in to see Archmage Feor, Nailihuaile, and Viltach standing on-screen.

Good evening.

Feor spoke, his brows furrowed. He did not waste time. The Archmage lifted a hand and something appeared in it.

A golden triangle. The symbol floated in the air and the half-Elf made it hover. He looked at it with distaste. Naili continued.

This is an emergency broadcast from Wistram Academy. I regret to inform you all that the academy has just uncovered a troubling event currently taking place in Izril and Terandria. Recently, in every city, people have been approached regarding investing money in an organization known as The Golden Triangle. However, under no circumstances should anyone invest money in this scheme. It is a trick. Fraud. This is the largest fraud ever to appearever. Archmage Viltach?

Viltach gestured. And a carefully-designed graphic floated over and appeared behind the Archmages.

The Golden Triangle appears at first to be the concept of investing in Gold-rank companies and [Mages]. However, these individuals and groups do not exist. The money is instead given to other members. Our [Mages] at Wistram have analyzed the way this fraudulent scheme works, and this is the method. First

They began to break down the Golden Triangle piece by piece, explaining to a stunned audience that their money wasnt real. They were just taking money from the next group of investors, and so on and so forth. The scheme wouldit had to collapse.

And it did, at this very moment. [Lords] found the gold they had invested gone. People sending thousands of [Messages] to the Golden Triangles organization found thatthere had only been a skeleton crew. And the bewildered members of the Golden Triangle found themselves arrested, questioned. But no one knew where all the money had gone.

The trail vanished near the top. And the gold was gone. Leaving tens, hundreds of thousands out a little or a lot of coin. Hundreds of thousands of gold pieces. In another month, it might have been millions.

-

Chaos reigned. More than one person realized theyd lost everything. Watch Captain Zevara sat at her desk as panic set in across her city. She listened to the Archmages speak.

Damn them.

They had no idea what this was causing. Announcing it like this? Watch Captains all over the world were scrambling. Her Watch was in the streets, quelling a beginning riot.

But Wistram had unveiled the plot. Theyd get credit for that. And if Zevara ever met the Archmages, she would stab them. In the meantime, Watch Captain Zevara just sat there and listened to the pyramid scheme come crashing down.

[Mages]. They never wondered who was on the ground from their lofty citadel. The pieces were landing on people.

Or perhaps they knew. Perhaps it was all some great plan. Wistram Academy stood alone. And in the meantimeWatch Captain Zevara closed her eyes. She stood up, and called out amid the shouting.

Someone please summon Senior Guardsman Relc. At once. I need to speak with him.

-

One last thing. A little note in between the different stories. Inconsequential? Hardly, but a small thing.

Palt found Joseph listening to the reports coming from Liscor. Erin had closed her magic door; The Wandering Inn was in lockdown and no one unfriendly was going to get through the trapped hallway. Pallass and Liscor were both heaving.

Joseph.

The young man started. He looked up as the Centaur, smoking something, bent down.

What is itPalt?

I have something for you. From my faction. This. And this. Dont worry; Ill get reimbursed. But they wanted this to you straight off.

The Centaur bent down and offered Joseph three things. The first was a wand.

It casts [Stun Spear]. Powerful. Tier 3. Kicks anyone on their back. Sixty charges. Ill show you how to use it. And this

A bag of gold. Joseph stared wide-eyed at it. He looked up.

Butbut what? Who is this from?

Read the letter.

Palt had written it, but hed copied the letter his master had told him to write word-for-word. Joseph read.

The Singer of Terandria is not part of Wistram. I think there are more of us in Baleros. A girl called Caroline says she was with them. Dont come to Wistram unless you dont want to leave. Ignore the letters. Ill send what I can. Sincerely

Blackmage, aka Aaron Vanwell.

Joseph read, and then looked up. Palt winked as he trotted towards the door. It was true that Aaron wasnt a hero. He was an [Engineer], a programmer, a nerd, self-proclaimed. He wasnt a hero.

But he could still do something.

Authors Note: I am on break until June 23^rd. Later for public readers. I know Im taking a week off per month, but I need it. To work on other stuff too, like getting Volume 3 ready for e-booksrestingI think it helps the writing, or I wouldnt do it. Sorry for the delay, but it wont be too long.

Now, listen. The Audiobook for Volume 2 will be released July 14th. The Last Tide comes out in August.

Part 1, that is. It will be digitally available, and a physical version with the full story will come out. There is also a chapter, written by me which will be made available at some point, which this entire big thing is based on.

But look. Words become pictures. And these pictures? Gorgeous. You may read, speculate, and impatiently wait for the comic bookbut not for much longer. And here are some pages from the comic-book. Look at it. LOOK AT IT. (Also, Im releasing more art to Patreons, so check there for more art that wont be made public.)

Thats all for now! See you in 2 updates! Thanks for reading!

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