Book 6: Chapter 38


    The sun was rising on another peaceful day in Liscor. The birds were singing, the flowers growing. Although, it had to be said, the native poption of Ashfire Bees that normally pollinated the entire Floodins area was trapped in a cavern and thus the reproduction rate of Liscors ambient flora might well half itself in the near future with the loss of a keystone species.


    And the only reason the birds were alive was because a certain Antinium Worker wasnt perched in his tower, happily sniping down anything with wings. In that sense, the peaceful day actuallycked the pleasant birdsong followed by the <em>thwap</em> of a bowstring and a terrible <em>squawk</em> for it to bepletely regr.


    But it was peaceful. And if things were different, well, they were the same in some areas. A single Ashfire Bee greeted the day as she buzzed from flower to flower inside The Wandering Inn, pollinating and getting happily high off the nectar. And there <em>was</em> a Worker on the roof of the inn. He had a hammer, a tin filled with nails, and a purpose.


    He wasying down a roof on the rebuilt third floor of the inn. The frame had been created, the floorid, but the roof had yet to be finished. So this Worker had been assigned to his duties at dawn by Belgrade; he had mbered onto the roof with arge supply of roof tiles, copper nails, and begun hammering them into ce.


    The Worker had no safety belt, or gloves. Or anyone to spot him. And he was three stories up, bncing on the thin frames while he used all four hands toboriously bring tiles over from the roofed section of the inn, bnce them on a crossbeam, hammer them into ce, and not tumble to his death if he so much as took a step backwards.


    All things considered, this was one of the safer jobs he could have been asked to do in service of his Hive and the Worker was content. He was no Individual, or even Autonomous, the new ss below Individual. He hammered in hisst roof tile, carefully ovepping it with thest one so water would flow down unimpeded when it rained, with no chance to leak into the building below. He was working hard, and precisely. Water could not be allowed inside the inn. That was a bad thing. And that was all the Worker thought about.


    Aside from the fact that he needed new tiles. The Worker looked up and saw them, in arge basket bnced a dozen feet to the left. He would have to get up, transport more over, and begin hammering again. It was inconvenient and slow, but the Worker was alone and a job was a job. So he got up, bncing carefully so as not to tip over the edge of the roof and die


    And a roof tile soared out of the basket, through the air andnded right on top of the next spot in front of the Worker. He stared at it, and then looked around. The roof tile had <em>flown!</em> And it was right in the next spot where he needed to put the roof tile. Just like that. The Worker stared at the tile. He stared at the basket.


    Normal [Builders], or rather, non-Antinium, would have stopped to ask questions. They would have looked for a [Mage], maybe stopped working to check if they hadpany. At the very least, they would have made a verbalment. But this Worker wasnt about to panic or ask questions. He was a [Roofer]. He saw a tile? He hammered nails into it.


    The Worker did that. His hand positioned a nail, and his other hand swung while hisst two hands steadied himself on the roof and the tile in ce. One, two, threethe nail went in. The Worker hammered four more nails in and looked up in time to see <em>another</em> tile flying into ce, right above the tile hed just affixed to the roof. He stared at it. Then he raised his hammer.


    More nails, each hammered quickly into ce. And this time, the Worker looked up and saw the next tile flying towards him. He edged out of the way and it moved into ce. Without missing a beat, he grabbed more nails in his lower-left hand and got to work. Now <em>this</em> was easy!


    One tile. Two. Threethey flew into ce, just waiting for the nails! The Worker had a rhythm going. Then he saw the tiles flying and the <em>nails with it!</em> It pped itself into ce and the nails drove themselves in. The Worker stared. The next five tiles affixed themselves to the roof as he watched. Whatever magic orwhatever was doing it was far more efficient than the Worker, and as precise as he could ever be. The tiles flew,nded and then, after the tenth one


    Stopped. The Worker stared at his basket. There were still more tiles, and more nails in his tin. But the tiles had stopped moving. The Worker hopefully made his way over to the basket, and picked one up. He tossed it up gently into the air. It obeyed thews of gravity and he caught it before itnded.


    The Worker stared at the tile. His antennae drooped slightly, and he slowly got back to work the slow, mundane way. And below him, Erin, Lyte, and Mrsha stared up at the roof and looked at each other. Erin breathed out as she lowered her hand. Mrshas eyes were shining and Lyte was biting her lip. Erin grinned.


    Thats so<em> cool.</em>


    -


    [Partial Reconstruction]!


    In the very early morning, in her quiet inn, Erin shouted the word and pointed. Ceria, nursing a hangover, winced. But she watched along with the others as the broken chair, a mess of splinters and wood pieces, quickly rebuilt itself. The wood fused as the half-Elf stared and in less than ten seconds, apletely intact chair sat across from her. The half-Elf whistled softly.


    Now <em>thats</em> a powerful Skill.


    Its amazing! Did you see that? Seborn, hey, Seborndid you see


    Erin grinned and looked around. Her inn was quiet and sparsely popted, but only byparison with thest few days. It did in fact have nearly thirty people in it; the yers of Celum, setting up on stage, the Horns of Hammeradexcept for Pisces, who was still asleepLyte, Mrsha, Drassi, Ishkr, three [Barmaids], two [Servers], Apista, Relc, andthe Halfseekers.


    Two of them, at least. Seborn and Moore were sitting at a table. The Drowned Man looked up and nodded briefly. He didnt look happy, but then, he never did. He wasrgely expressionless by nature and he regarded the chair with less amazement than the others.


    <strong>I saw. Useful Skill.</strong>


    Aw,e on. Its amazing! Isnt it?


    <strong>Amazing.</strong>


    The Drowned Man dutifully replied. He sipped from his mug of water and didnt exactly scowl. Erin pouted, and then looked around.


    What about you, Relc? Its cool, right?


    Cool? Its great! Hey, can I try to break another chair?


    The [Guardsman] excitedly grabbed a chair and Mrsha nodded vigorously. He was here early on a day off, and hed gotten to witness Erin testing out her new Skill. Erin nodded and he grabbed a second chair.


    Alright! Stand back little Mrsha! Fix<em>this!</em>


    He <em>smashed</em> the chair into the floorboards, and Ceria <em>winced</em>. The wood splinters flew everywhere and the half-Elf raised a hand to block her face. Mrsha, whod obediently scooted back behind a table, ducked. But arge arm and hand gently protected her from the flying debris. Moore gave Relc a reproachful look as he savored his porridge. The Drake was too excited to notice.


    Alright, fix that, Erin!


    You got it!


    Erin pointed and the broken chair and floorboards reassembled themselves in moments. Relc crowed as he raised his fists.


    That is so <em>cool!</em> Not even magic can do that!


    Magic can totally do that. I mean, I could do some of that if I knew [Repair]. And theres [Reconstruct]. I bet most veteran [Mages] from Wistram could do that.


    Ceria grumbled. Relc ignored her as he turned to Erin, eyes shining.


    What level was that Skill, Erin? Level 30? Are you Level 30 already? Its gotta be a high-level Skill, right?


    Erin blushed and waved a hand as everyone looked at her.


    Aw, well, you knowits really good, isnt it?


    Its fantastic. Thats a proper [Innkeeper] Skill right there. Hey, can I try something bigger? Like a table?


    Go ahead! I wanna see what I can do! Heck, maybe Ill rebuild the entire roof!


    The young woman nodded eagerly.


    Hold on, lets not go overboard.


    Lyte cautioned the two, but it was toote. Relc raced over to an unupied table, and with considerable experience, leapt and gave it a flying elbow. The [Princess] sighed as the table <em>cracked</em> and Mrsha and Erin cheered.


    Awesome! [Partial Reconstruction]! Do another, Relc!


    Yeah, can I?


    Go for it!


    The background <em>crash</em> and reassembly got boring after the third break for everyone but Erin and Relc and Mrsha. Lyte sighed and went to fill drinks. Ceria sipped from a ss of milk and ate a teful of spaghetti and meatballs. Yvlon, sitting across from her, wrinkled her nose.


    Ceria, dont you think theres better things to eat in the morning?


    The half-Elf considered this as she chewed and swallowed.


    Nope. Whats the point of having an inn where I can have any dish I want, <em>fresh</em>, and not having something like this?


    Yvlon opened her mouth to reply, then turned her head and stared left at Ksmvr. He looked up from his te. He was eating porridge, with acid flies sprinkled into it. Yvlon stared at her teammates, sighed, and shook her head.


    Why is it that I suddenly wish Pisces were here? I must being down with something.


    She pushed back her empty bowl just in time for Relc to hurtle past her and body m a chair. He looked up.


    Yeah?


    <em>Yeah!</em>


    Erin pointed at the chair mended its broken back. Relc grabbed two more chairs and jumped on a table. He smashed one on the ground.


    <em>Yeah!?</em>


    Yeaoh wait, hold on. I think its stopped working.


    Erin said that toote. The <em>crash</em> this time made the yers of Celum look up from across the long room. They stared at Relc as he slowly got up from his pile of splinters where hed done a flying body m. Erin stared at the splinters of the table and three chairs on the floor. She pointed hopefully.


    Uh, [Partial Reconstruction]?


    Nothing happened. And in truth, Erin had felt that too. Shed run out of her Skill. Relc hesitated as he got up, brushing bits of wood off his scales.


    Oops.


    Mrsha paused in trying to break a chair leg and innocently hid it behind her back. Lyte covered her face and groaned. Moore picked arge wooden splinter out of his bowl of porridge. Seborn stared at the chairs, and then went back to his drink. At his table, Ksmvr raised two hands.


    Excuse me, may I have more acid flies in my bowl?


    It was the beginning of another day at The Wandering Inn. The fact that no one even looked surprised was a sign of how far the madness had spread.


    -


    Ten minutester, a shamefaced Erin, Mrsha, and Relc had swept the wreckage of the furniture into a corner of the inn. Lyte propped her hands on her hips.


    What have we learned?


    Erin raised a hand.


    So I can do <em>about</em> three tables, uh, ten roof tiles, and five chairs in one go. After that, my Skill stops working.


    Yup. Pretty awesome. And I can break a table with my stomach.


    Relc scratched his neck, grinning. Mrsha nodded until Lyte stared at her. The [Princess] sighed. Erin grinned sheepishly.


    Aw,e on, Lyte. At least we know my Skill has limits! And hey! Ill fix the table and chairs when my Skilles back to life!


    Lyte gave her a reproving nce and gentle head-nod to Mrsha. <em>Dont encourage her!</em> But she relented with a slight smile in the end.


    Itll save a lot of money if we just save the broken parts and let you rebuild themter. Not to mention broken windows, mugscan it do stains too?


    Maybe? Lets check after this. But I bet not. Its reconstruction, not uh, stain-removal.


    Good to know we still have a job, right?


    Drassimented as she swept by with a broom, getting thest splinters. Erinughed. Relc nodded, looking satisfied. Then he nced at Erin.


    Hey, are you going to open the door to Pass yet? Grimalkin said he had all those weights you mentioned, and I want to try them out.


    In a bit. I want a peaceful morning. Which is why the door stays closed! Until aroundte morning?


    Erin looked at Lyte for confirmation. The [Princess] nodded.


    We need to replenish our food stocks. Which means youre cooking, Erin. Mrsha and I will go to the park in Liscor. And the yers of Celum want practice. More importantly, we cant handle so many people all at once. So the door to Liscor stays <em>closed</em>. No crowds unless theye here on foot. And theyre not allowed into Pass eithernot until the suns three quarters of the way up!


    She pointed at Temile on stage with his [Actors] and then at the window. Erin nodded and sighed. She wanted to open the door right now, but Lyte had a point. Two full days of the door being open to Pass had made a small fortune for The Wandering Inn, but also a <em>lot</em> of work. Relc looked disappointed, but the day-staff including Ishkr and Drassi looked relieved at Lytes pronouncement.


    Youre the boss, Lyte. For now.


    Erin tried to look threatening. Mrsha just raced around her. The Gnoll was excited, and signaled as much with her paws.


    Pat chest, smile, running motion with closed paws. Thenone arm crossed, two paws folded against head to show napping. Lyte and Erin interpreted this.


    You like being busy, <em>but</em>its tiring?


    Mrsha nodded happily and made a thumbs-up. Erinughed with delight.


    I understood that too! I agree, Mrsha. Its hectic, what with the election in Liscor and Pass and stuff. But The Wandering Inns never been more crowded! Which means were making money, right Lyte?


    The [Princess] had to smile at that.


    We are. And I think we can actually afford some big changes. As well as buying Mrsha some new toys. And maybe some clothes?


    The Gnoll looked excited at the former, annoyed at thetter. Erin regarded Mrsha.


    She is naked, right?


    Gnolls dont really care, especially in the wild, but <em>I</em> think Mrsha should learn to wear something. So Ill buy her some clothes today before we get back. If thats okay? It shouldnt be more than a few gold coins at most.


    Lyte looked at Erin. The [Innkeeper] nodded. Mrsha signed from below that she <em>wasnt</em> interested in clothes, but the two adults ignored her. Erin ruffled her hair.


    Come on, Mrsha. Clothes are nice! You used to steal bras, remember? And t-shirts. And shoes. Dont worry, you can get your clothes shopping done and then help out here, okay? Were doing really well with the inn. But you know what? It can be <em>even better</em>.


    Mrsha and Lyte both looked up at that. The [Princess] raised one brow and Erin exined with a smile.


    Opening Pass was just the first step. Now were really going to improve things.


    She rubbed her hands together.


    Ive got ns. Oh yeah. Heh. Heheheheheheh.


    Her chuckle just made Mrshaugh silently and point at Erins face. Lyte covered a smile and Erin stopped, affronted. Then she sighed.


    I cant do a scaryugh. You know whos great at scaryughing? Ryokaoh. Sorry, Mrsha.


    The Gnoll cubs face immediately fell. So did Erins. Lyte gave her a reproachful look, and the [Innkeeper] guiltily knelt. She hugged Mrsha and lifted her upright with a small grunt.


    Youre getting heavier. Hey, sorry, Mrsha. But Im sure Ryokas fine. Wherever she is. Well find her. Soon, Mrsha. When the Halfseekers get to Invrisil Ill look into it, I promise. But for today? Were going to help our friends here. Okay? Just watch a master.


    She smiled, and Mrsha looked up. Her tail began to wag and Lyte looked at Erin suspiciously.


    Id prefer to just make more money, Erin. If your next n has anything like drama in it


    No, not like that! Im just leveragingassets! When we open the doors, let me know when Grimalkines in, okay? Or Xif. Or Rufelt and Lasica oranyone important, okay?


    Erins eyes twinkled. Lyte sighed, but smiled. Erin Solstice had a n. And of such things was The Wandering Inns reputation built. So the three split up, preparing for another day full of Erin-rted shenanigans. And in the inn, sitting at his table, Seborn looked up, drained half his mug of water, and cursed.


    <strong>Shes <emte.</em></strong>


    Come on, Seborn. Dont be so angry.


    The half-Giant carefully smiled at his friend. Seborn just red ahead as Drassi came by with a pitcher of water.


    <strong>Sheste. And this is the third day.</strong>


    Yes, but


    Seborn nced up at Moore. The half-Giant shrugged helplessly.


    Its not like she doesnt have a reason.


    <strong>I know. But she said</strong>


    Its <em>love</em>, Seborn.


    <strong>Its infatuation. Shes so busy getting wrapped up with that Duhan that shes forgotten about us</strong>


    Moores brows drew together.


    Why are you mad? You should be happy for our friend. And its not like were sitting in squalor here. I like this inn. Dont you?


    <strong>Weve been here for months, Moore. We need to get to work. Or what are we? Were adventurers and our Captains missing.</strong>


    But if she likes him


    The half-Giants voice was gentle, sympathetic as was his nature. Seborn on the other hand was clearly impatient as he shook his head.


    <strong>You and I both know she cant have that rtionship forever. Hes a [cksmith] in Pass. Shes going to be working in the north. At least until we reach Invrisil. And besides which, were on missions for weeks away. All shes doing is having a fling and if she really does like himI told you. If you two want to have sex so badly, lets find a port city. There are brothels that cater to any species.</strong>


    It was the most the Drowned Man had said in one go for a long time, and even then, only among his group. Moore blinked, but then looked slightly affronted.


    You know she actually likes him, Seborn. How long did she say it was since shest met anyone?


    <strong>Six years. And that was a Selphid in a port-city bar. I know. I was <em>there</em> and she wouldnt shut up for three months. So what?</strong>


    The Drowned Man crossed his arms. Moore hesitated. Seborn had been in the Halfseekers with Jqua from the start. And even though the half-Giant had journeyed with them for years, he forgot how long the two had been in a team.


    Well, isnt it good, then? We should be supporting her.


    <strong>And let her get her heart broken?</strong>


    Maughin wont break her heart. Hes the most open-minded Duhan Ive met. Havent you?


    Seborn hesitated.


    <strong>Even if he is, so what? They cant be together.</strong>


    Why not?


    Moore gave him a deep look over his bowl. Seborn grumbled under his breath.


    <strong>Its a distraction. We should be working.</strong>


    We earned a lot of money. Doesnt Jqua deserve happiness? This is the first non-Selphid whos ever really been serious about her. You know how rare that is. Especially for someone from Baleros! Hes from her home, Seborn. This is special.


    <strong>Its asinine. Every time she gets back here she talks about sex, holding hands in public, or how nice he is. Theyre lovebirds. Hes forging her te armor. Its disgusting.</strong>


    I think its beautiful. II wish I had that.


    Moore looked dreamy, but the longing tone in his voice rang clear to his friend. Seborn grunted. It was a mark of his friendship with Moore that he bit his tongue on the first six replies. After a moment, he just looked at Moore again.


    <strong>I keep telling you to visit a brothel. They have Selphids. Or sturdy women. Or Skills. They know what theyre about. Youre not going to hurt anyone.</strong>


    I know. Youve said. But I mean, how many people like me are


    Moores normally open face closed up. The Drowned Man sighed.


    <strong>Theyre used to all sorts of customers. Me. Jqua. Even half-Giants. No ones going to make fun of you. And itll stop you moping. Come to think of it, it wouldve stopped Jqua from being obsessed with this Duhan. Just do what you need to do and stop <em>focusing</em> on it.</strong>


    Its not like that. I want to find someone I can like. Or love. I dont want to pay for that, Seborn.


    The half-Giant [Green Mage] looked reproachfully at his friend. Seborn rolled his eyes.


    <strong>You wouldnt say that if youd actually done it. This is why we need new teammates. You, Jqua, Hssiayou were all romantics.</strong>


    The mention of their old friend made Moore blink. But then he smiled. Sadly, yes, but without the tension there had used to be. He looked at Seborn. They could talk about the past now. The half-Giant shrugged, a bit defensively.


    So what if we are? Isnt that why the Halfseekers were founded? Were chasing a dream, Seborn. Let Jqua have her time with Maughin. Hes giving her gifts. Theyre walking together. Talking. Maybe theyll have to split when we go to Invrisil. Or maybe theyll meet each other. Erin does have her door. Andwho knows?


    The half-Giant looked towards the closed door, his eyes gentle. Seborn shook his head. Moore was romantic. Seborn was not. But it seemed to himhe looked up at Moore and thought his friend was hiding his true feelings well. Underneath his support of Jqua, there was more than a little envy. Jealousy, even. Seborn leaned across the table and poked Moore.


    <strong>I know you dont like the idea. But youre what, thirty one? Im not having you sulk on the road if Jquaes back smiling. Why do you keep waiting for someone to fall in love with you? There was that girl in Wales. That woman in Invrisil. That [Mage] from Wistramjust end it already. Whats the matter with buying</strong>


    He stopped, because Moore looked truly hurt. The half-Giant shuffled and turned away from Seborn, looking embarrassed and hurt.


    It matters to me, Seborn.


    And that was that. The Drowned Man exhaled slowly and shook his head. He thought of Jquast night, clinging to Maughin like a girl with her first lovewhich was what this was in some ways. And Moore, too afraid to smile at the women he fell in love with, to take a plunge. The Drowned Man sighed. The Halfseekers. Gold-rank adventurers and veterans inbat, and rookie [Sailors] on the seas of romance. He stood up after a second.


    <strong>Come on. Lets walk with that damn wagon for today. The donkeys are still hitched to it, but its only a matter of time before a [Thief] or monster sniffs around them.</strong>


    Moore considered this and he rxed slightly.


    Okay. Maybe we can find a stable for them. Ande back tonight? I do want to have dinner with Mrsha.


    Seborn nodded withoutment. The half-Giant doted on the Gnoll child. The Drowned Man walked towards the door, looking for Erin so they could warn her they were about to drain the mana from it. He sighed.


    <strong>At least we dont have to listen to Jqua or wait for her toe back. I dont need to hear Jqua talking about having sex or sitting on that Duhansp if theye back.</strong>


    Moore chuckled a bit.


    Ill admit, she is graphic. UhSeborn?


    <strong>Yes?</strong>


    Is what she doesis that entirelynormal?


    The half-Giant blushed fiercely. Seborn looked up at him and wished he were miles away. On a boat. Fighting giant squid at sea was easier than this.


    <strong>No. Dont listen to what she talks about. And dont try it. Ever. Jquas a Selphid. Bodies are disposable. And this is probably tame for her. You dont want to know what two Selphids do for fun.</strong>


    Moore nodded, his face and ears bright red. He and Seborn headed for the door and the Drowned Man sighed. It was longsuffering and for some reason, when Yvlon, sitting at her table, heard it, she felt a strange sense of kinship. Seborn adjusted the door, put his hand on it, and then heard Moores voice as the half-Giant leaned down and whispered.


    So what do they do?


    -


    Four hundred miles south of the inn, Jqua Ivirith was humming as she tried to make breakfast. Therge room and kitchen she was working in looked strangely oversized for her, and indeed, the building was one of the more expensive buildings on the ninth floor. But then, the owner needed the space and for the best or second-best [cksmith] in Pass, so it had been customized for him.


    The apartment was decorated in the Duhans style, with the typical mix of refined station; showing your rank without being ostentatious about it. And since Maughin was of very high rank in the Duhanmunity, and a [cksmith] himselfthey were prized in Duhan culturehe could unt like no ones business.


    He had two tapestries from Baleros on the walls, one showing the Iron Vanguard in a pitched sea battle, the other of some magnificent view from Baleros. It made Jqua ache for home. There was a marble plinth with a carved statuette of Xol of Ingrilt, appropriate given Maughins own size, farrger than the average Duhan but shorter than a typical War Walker, a custom-forged battleaxe, a shelf full of books, made twice asrge for him to read, a gloriously artistic tform showcasing the Duhans pottery collectionthe apartment was <em>rich</em>.


    Jqua, looking into the pantries, saw that each one was enchanted with a preservation spell. She whisked together some eggs, poured them into a pan over a stove which had a magical fire spell that Erin would have loved to have, and added some bacon. Her taste buds, still fresh in this particr corpse, watered at the thought of the omelette. But that was only half of what Jqua was working on. She was also making a sandwich.


    Just a sandwich. The Selphid was well aware of her cooking Skills, but some of the omelette was going to go into there, between some very fine fresh bread, some cheeseuh, what else did you put into sandwiches? She panicked a bit as she tried to remember. Adventurers usually went to sustenance over taste, and Jqua often had a body incapable of tasting anything. For a second she thought about going to Erins inn for help, but she caught herself.


    No, no. Ive got this. You putmeat into sandwiches. Meat. Does he have bananas? Bananas are tasty. And heyif he doesnt like it


    She hesitated. Jqua looked around Maughins apartment and stared at her hands. She was wearing a Drakes body. And she waswell, she <em>wasnt</em><em>not</em> about to go and deliver a lunch to Maughin, who was working at the forge. And maybe stick around with him. And when he finished early, theyd, oh, go to Erins inn maybe. Or hed show her more of Pass.


    This is a thing, right? This is happening?


    Jqua pinched herself. She felt nothing, which meant she wasnt dreaming. The Selphid looked around, and then craned her neck to see the ruffled bed sheets. She rememberedst night and blushed orange.


    This is really happening?


    The Selphid touched her warm cheeks. She was so giddy she didnt realize the eggs were burning. Then she yelped and began scraping the pan.


    A few minutester, Jqua nervously ate her eggs, staring at the vases. She was muttering to herself.


    Vases. Hes got good taste in them. I like pottery. I can like pottery. And we have lots inmon. Tons! Hes from Baleros, Im from Balerosand were both into weaponshe really likes my personality. Aha.


    Sheughed and blushed again. Happily, her tail wagging in her Drakes body, the Selphid went back to preparing a lunch for Maughin. In the distance, she could hear the distant ringing of hammers through an open window. The forges werent far from Maughins home for convenience, and as the Selphid sighed and leaned on the window, she imagined it was Maughins hammer she was hearing.


    She was not wrong. In his forge, Maughin was bending steel with his hammer, working faster and harder than his apprentices or fellow [Smiths] had seen him in a long time. To say he was motivated didnt capture the smile on the Duhans lips, or the way his head hummed as his body worked independent of it. Two of his Duhan apprentices traded looks as they worked under his supervision.


    Of course, it was a scandal in the Duhanmunity. A Selphid and a Duhan? It was only because this was Pass and not Baleros that this could happen. Normally, a higher-ranking Duhan would be called in to address the situation with Maughin, and this would all be settled. Or if not, there would be trouble.


    But in Pass, who would call Maughin out? The Duhanmunity was small enough as it was, and there were Duhans whod had rtionships with Gnolls and Drakes and that had been an issue in years past. So no one brought it up. Besides, Jqua <em>was</em> a Gold-rank adventurer. That counted for something.


    It was still disgusting. Bealt, the [Farrier], two Drake [Smiths], and Pelt all glowered when Jqua appeared, practically skipping over to Maughin with a <em>lunch</em> ready and made for him. And the other smiths, glowering in their forges, watched as Maughin stopped work to flirt with the Selphid. Disgusting! Completely inappropriate for this hour.


    Even married [Smiths] seldom got a fresh lunch hand-delivered. Let alone had a dreamy-eyed girlor boy in the case of female [Smiths]watching and keeping his headpany at work.


    And that was only the first few hours of the day. The repulsive flirting would go on, but that wasnt really the point of the day. It was just worth mentioning that not until nine hourster would Jqua even recall her teammates. And when she guiltily returned to the inn, she would thank the stars that she had decided toe to the city of Liscor and stayed at The Wandering Inn. Because it had delivered her happiness. Short-lived or long, she was holding onto it.


    -


    And then there was Numbtongue. He got upte for once. Late enough that Lyte hade back with Mrsha from her morning trip. The Hobgoblin walked downstairs, and to his surprise found the inn had yet to be filled with more than a smattering of guests. He found out why when he poked his head into the kitchen and found Erin hard at work.


    Were preparing for a rush! Tons of stuff to sell! And Im going to totally work some magic! In a metaphorical sense. Hey, are the Horns still here?


    Numbtongue checked. He saw Ceria, and Pisces, both of whom looked hung over. Yvlon and Ksmvr were gone. That meant they were between jobs at Liscor or Celums guilds and the two [Warriors] were working out while the [Mages] studied magic or, as Numbtongue saw it,zed about. He nodded.


    Yup.


    Great.


    Erin grinned what Numbtongue now thought of as her calcting grin. She was tossing a pizza, but she stopped long enough to pull some food out for him.


    What do you want for breakfast, Numbtongue? A steak? Uhwhats this? Ooh! Is that pickled fish? Um, spaghetti and meatballs?


    Numbtongues mouth watered. Part of him wanted to say everything, but he thought about it and pointed.


    Fish.


    You like fish, huh?


    The [Bard] nodded. He let Erin serve him some wet slices of fish into a bowl. She wrinkled her nose at the breakfast, but Numbtongue happily began eating with his fingers until Erin pped at them.


    Get a fork! And eat at a table! Drassi can get you a drink. Shes on bar duty.


    The Hobgoblin nodded and wandered out into themon room. He got a drink himself at the bar, sat down, and began to eat. After a second, he stared at his bowl.


    Yesterday I leveled up.


    He stared at his ws and remembered the events ofst night. They hit him again. The<em> [Goblin Soulbard]</em> stared at his ws. He reached for a forearm and made to pinch himself, then closed his hand. Lyte, lugging in groceries with Mrsha opened the door just in time to see Numbtongue make a fist and wallop himself as hard as he could in the face.


    Numbtongue! What are you doing?


    Mrsha abandoned her bag to dash over. She stared at Numbtongue as he picked himself off the floor. Numbtongue rubbed at his bruised cheek and shrugged.


    Just making sure. Hi, Lyte. Morning, Mrsha.


    She waved at him. The Hobgoblin nodded and sat back down. Lyte stared at him, opened her mouth, and then pointed.


    Okay, lets bring the food to the kitchen! Come on, Mrsha!


    As they went, Numbtongue stared at his ws again. They clenched into fists as he closed his eyes.


    [Soulbard]. That was a purpose in itself. But <em>more</em> than that. More, oh so much more. It wasit wasnt justice. It wasnt enough for all the dead. But for one Goblin? He thought about his new Skill.


    [A Minute, Reborn]. It was a Skill with serious limitations. But the utility! The <em>use!</em> Numbtongue knew he should be running tests to see how many times he could use it per day. Or figure out how best to use it. In the mines, perhaps? Could Pyrite locate more gemstones with his Skills? Could he use Skills?


    But in this moment, there was only one thought Numbtongue had. He stared down at the bowl of half-eaten fish as Mrsha reappeared out of the kitchen and padded over to him. It was cold fish, and without any other preparation. But it was good. It was tasty. And right now, all that was in Numbtongues heart was this. He closed his eyes.


    -


    Mrsha, who had been padding over to check on Numbtongue and maybe filch some of his breakfast, saw the Hobgoblin change. No one else noticed, but Mrsha had known Numbtongue for a while. And she had keen eyes, a sensitive nose. She saw his posture change, his head snap up and look around. From bodynguage, to the look in his eyeseven his voice was suddenly, strangely, <em>different.</em> The Gnoll froze in rm as the Hobgoblin looked up, looked at his bowl, and grunted.


    Hrm.


    And then he began to eat. With one wed hand he picked out a piece of fish and ate it, bones and all. Mrsha heard him casually grinding the bones down, chomping through them without any problem. He grunted in satisfaction as, with his other hand, he fished a pouch by his side. Curiously, not so much afraid as wary, Mrsha crept closer. She had seen Numbtongue do this yesterday. And he had exined it. Even told Erin what, who this was. Hed called the strange Goblin


    Pyrite. And as Mrsha slunk up to the table, one of the Hobgoblins eyes swung down towards her. She froze. Shed been using her [Natural Concealment] Skill, which normally fooled even Numbtongue until she was closer! But this Hob saw her at once. He blinked at her, then smiled. With one hand he kept eating. And with the other, he pulled something out of his pouch and ced it on the table.


    Hm. Good fish. Not enough time to go mining. Goter.


    That was all he said. Mrsha, emboldened, leapt onto a chair and stared at the Hob. He nodded at her.


    Mrsha.


    She nodded cautiously and pointed at him. Pyrite nodded amiably. As he ate another piece of fish, he gestured at something on the table. Mrsha stared at the lump hed ced there. She stared, and then recognized the slightly transparent rock.


    Quartz. Smokey.


    The Hobgoblin nodded. Mrsha did too. It was a lump of quartz, the kind that you could find all over the Floodins, or near the High Passes. Not too valuable; Mrsha liked the look of the stone with thettice caught in it that gave it the dark brown look, but she knew it wasnt worth much. To a low-level jeweler, maybe. But not to [Mages], who valued pure quartz for its magical-holding properties as a weak enchantment material.


    The Stone Spears tribe wouldnt mine this unless they had nothing better. That was Mrshas expert opinion as a Gnoll of her tribe. But Pyrite, about twenty seconds into his minute, had other ns. The Hobgoblin put another piece of fish into his mouth and, grunting, with it full, reached for the quartz. He didnt use a tool, or do anything special; his ws just dug into the rock and began slicing pieces off it as if it were soft butter!


    Mrshas eyes widened in amazement. Pieces of rock flew and dust drifted down as the Hobgoblins ws blurred against the quartz, breaking it down, molding it, then, smoothing the stone, carving it until it was one smooth sphere. In less than thirty seconds, hed created a sphere. A perfect little marble, showcasing the quartz, transparent brown and grey, a beautiful bauble. Pyrite winked as Mrshas eyes went round. He swallowed his mouthful and spoke.


    Good food. Tell Numbtongue thanks. Here.


    He dipped the marble in the cup, and withdrew the gleaming orb of stone. Then, casually, he rolled it towards Mrsha. The Gnoll sped her paws around the beautiful marble and lifted it up, admiring it. She heard a sigh and looked up. And when she did, Numbtongue was sitting in his chair, blinking at Mrsha, a piece of fish in his w.


    The Gnoll and Hobgoblin looked at each other in silence. Mrsha stared at Numbtongue as he blinked and then burped fishily. Hesitantly, she offered the marble to him. The Hobgoblin hesitated and took it. He stared at the smooth surface and at the crumbs of quartz on the table. He whistled.


    [Rock Polishing]. And [Miners ws].


    He offered it back to Mrsha. The Gnoll took the bauble hesitantly. Numbtongue smiled, and it was bitter, and sad, and happy at the same time.


    He liked the fish.


    Mrsha nodded. The two sat together like that until Lyte came out of her kitchen, dusting her hands. She eyed the rock dust on the table with a frown as she came over.


    Are you making a mess, Numbtongue? Or is it Mrsha? You know, someone has to cleanwhat is <em>that?</em>


    She blinked as Mrsha rolled the quartz marble on the floor. The [Princess] stared at the shiny little ything and Numbtongue and Mrsha exchanged a nce. Both looked at Lyte and shrugged. Numbtongue pointed at the quartz dust on the table.


    Not me. Pyrite did it.


    <em>Who?</em>


    And the Hobgoblins smile was wide. Because Pyrite was dead. But at leastyes, at least, Numbtongue could still treat him to a meal. And hed liked meeting Mrsha too.


    -


    A budding rtionship. A Goblin with a ss. And an [Innkeeper] with a new Skill. Erin rubbed her hands together gleefully, ignorant of some of it, but aware of more than she let on. Relc was happily chatting to her as her staff readied the inn for the influx from Pass. It was already filling with people from Liscor. Not Krshia, Elirr, Raekea, or any of the Gnolls on the campaign trail, but Selys was here and practically aglow with triumph.


    Your inns really making an impact, Erin. Those Passian [Senators] are giving Krshia their backingand not Lism! He still has Pass support, but there are actual Gnollsing to talk on Krshias behalf, and theyre <em>brilliant</em> at speaking! Of course, they have the ss. And Krshia can just point to you when Lism tries to rant about Humans and foreigners being bad for Liscor. You did it!


    Hey, I just got people together. They did the rest. Thank Rufelt and Lasicatheyll be here to lend some support tonight. And this is good for Pass election too!


    Erin replied modestly, but she felt a surge of pride seeing Selys face. Not to mention the people of Liscor whode here to talk with people from Pass, or just see what her inn was doing next. She looked around for Lyte. And today she was going to make it even better for her other friends!


    Hey Lyte! Lets open the door to Pass already!


    Lyte looked up. She had been ying a game of rolling a little marble on the ground with Mrsha. The shiny stone caught Erins eye and she frownedwhere had Mrsha gotten that?but Lyte nodded and Erin focused on the door. Time to go to work. She swung it open and a roar of noise enveloped her.


    Hey! Can I get a pizza with <em>cheese</em> in the crusts? And extra smi on top? No ones copied that yet!


    Wheres the y? Stop pushing! Is there a new one on? Hey, will those [Actors]e to Pass?


    Make way, people! [Senator]ing through!


    Im on the list to go to Liscor! Hey! Let me through! Im <em>on todays list!</em> I have proof and everything!


    A chorus of voices, angry, happy, expectant, rushed over Selys and Erin. The Drake recoiled. Erin beamed. She saw [Guardsman] Kel holding a crowd back with two other members of Pass Watch as those on the short list toe through trooped through the doorway.


    There was even a [Mage] to recharge the door. Two, in fact. Grimalkin strode through the door, bypassing a [Senator] and Xif. Erin waved at him as he entered.


    Grimalkin! Hey! Great to see you! Good morning! Can I get you anything to eat? To drink?


    Miss Erin.


    The [Sinew Magus] nodded formally at Erin and gazed around the inn. His eyes focused on Relc like aser beam. The Drake [Guardsman] was already getting up.


    Yo, Grimalkin! Are the weights done?


    Grimalkin grinned with genuine pleasure as he reached out. He and Relc sped forearms and Selys and Erin, standing back, saw their muscles <em>tense</em> as they exchanged the kind of greeting only two exceptionally muscr people could. Relcughed and Grimalkin nodded.


    I got thest weights done yesterday. Barbells, weight bareven the new one Miss Erin mentioned to me.


    Ooh! The squiggle bar?


    Erins eyes widened. Grimalkin nodded and reached for a bag of holding. He produced a shorter bar than the customary bench press bar that Erin was familiar with. But she recognized the EZ-bar from the customary, unique bend in the frame that meant you were holding it at an angle as you lifted. Relc chortled as he examined it.


    Thats weird. I like it! Hey, how many weights do you have?


    Plenty. Any number of poundsand I ordered fifty-pound weights made of lead. The [Smiths] should be finishing them any time nowactually, I see them now. <em>Apprentice Ferkr! Dont lollygag over there!</em>


    Grimalkin turned and <em>roared</em> into the doorway to Pass. He strode back into the crowd and emerged half-carrying a smaller Gnoll. Erin blinked. It was a female Gnoll! She was a bit shorter than Grimalkin, but she seemed a lot smaller because she was nowhere near as muscly. With that said, she probably had twice as much muscle definition as Erin. It was just that even Relc looked less huge next to Grimalkin.


    Sorry about that. Ferkr, the weights?


    Grimalkin deposited the Gnoll on the ground. Ferkr jumped. Nervously, the Gnoll held up a bag of holding. Grimalkin took it, pulled out some huge rounded weights with one hand and tossed them at Relc. The [Guardsman], not to be outdone, caught them and slotted them onto the bar until it was two hundred pounds heavier. Then he began lifting it up and down.


    Oh yeah! This feels different! Hey Erin, these things are great! Tons of fun!


    He tried lifting the bar one-handed, but that was too much even for Relc. Swearing, Relc caught the bar and Erin and Selys decided to step back. Ferkr just stared around at the inn, and then jumped as Grimalkin addressed her.


    Ferkr, are the other apprentices training?


    Uh, yes Magus Grimalkin! Theyre doing sixps, as you ordered.


    Grimalkin grunted in disgust.


    And doing it slow, no doubt. Well, Ill put them on the weights soon enough. Sergeant Relc! Dont twist your arms like that! You could injure yourself. Thats two hundred and some pounds youre swinging around; proper posture is key!


    He turned to Relc, who was trying to swing the entire weights bar like a bat. Relc paused and Erin, eying the weights and Relc, decided to step in.


    Why dont you two do your weights stuff over there, Grimalkin? And hey! Whos this? One of your apprentices?


    She looked at Ferkr. The female Gnoll jumped and bowed.


    Thats right, Miss Human. Imuh


    Grimalkin grabbed the EZ-bar from Relc and held it out to Ferkr.


    This is Ferkr, Miss Erin. One of my apprentices. The only Gnoll apprentice Ive ever had, in fact. Shes attempting to be a [Mage]. Which Imend! But shes far too nervous. Ferkr, take this. Carefulits two hundred pounds.


    He waited until the female Gnoll had a grip on it before letting go. Erin winced, expecting Ferkr to stumble or drop the bar under the weight, but to her amazement, the Gnoll only grunted and the bar dipped a fraction before she held it at a resting position. Grimalkin nodded and Erin stared.


    Wait, thats <em>way </em>too heavy for her!


    A hundred pounds too heavy, perhaps. Although with magic she could manage a hundred and fifty. How does it feel, Ferkr?


    Heavy, sir!


    The Gnolls voice was strained, but she was keeping the bar up. Grimalkin nodded. He pulled off fifty pounds off each end.


    Give it a try now. Trythree lifts.


    Slowly, exhaling hard, the younger Gnoll did just that. Erin and Selys jaw dropped as they saw her furry forearms strain and then lift. Once, twiceshe was struggling on the third one. Grimalkin barked.


    <em>Push, </em>Ferkr! I want those arms toe up! Yes, yes


    The third curl came with a <em>growl</em> from Ferkr as her arms shook. Grimalkin plucked the bar off her and pped her on the back. She staggered and nearly fell over.


    Excellent! Thats what I want to see! And you can feel the muscles working, cant you, Ferkr? Thats what Miss Solstice calls a maximum repetition. A few of those push your limit, while working at lower weights is safer and builds the muscle you want. I imagine these bars can support enough weight to test anyone but Sergeant Relc and I.


    Yeah. That bars harder than the straight one.


    Relc grinned as he pointed at the EZ-bar. Erin just gaped at Grimalkin. Then she looked at Ferkr.


    Youre <em>strong! </em>Wow, are all your apprentices like that? Hi, Im Erin, by the way.


    She held out a hand and Ferkr timidly shook it. Grimalkin just snorted.


    Gnolls are stronger than Humans. Notheres less gender imbnce for their species when ites to muscture. Historically, female Gnolls led hunting packs. And Ferkr is my apprenticeof course shes stronger than normal! As I said, my first Gnoll [Mage] apprentice. I have expectations of her, but she has to grow some testicles! Perhaps meeting you will help in that regard, Miss Erin.


    He looked sternly at Ferkr and the Gnoll blushed under her fur. Erin smiled sympathetically at the Gnoll girl, but Selys, whod been listening in to the conversation while waiting for thest of the Gnolls toe in, blinked.


    Wait a second. I thought Gnolls couldnt be [Mages]. Isnt that what they say at Wistram?


    Yeah. Hold on, thats what I heard too.


    Relc eyed Ferkr, looking confused. Ferkr looked up and her mouth opened, but Grimalkin spoke first.


    Hah! I dont know how that narrative spread, but itspletely false. Unfortunately, its so widespread that Gnolls dont be [Mages]! Can you imagine? There are countless precedents in history of Gnoll [Mages]true, their race tends towards [Shamanism], but thats just proof they can handle magic! Somehow some idiot started the rumor at Wistram and now Gnolls dont believe they can be [Mages]so many dont! Its one of those popr narratives that impedes an entire races magical potential. <em>Disgraceful!</em>


    He barked the word right over Ferkrs ear and she winced. So did ErinGrimalkin delivered everything at a shout or roar. She looked over her shoulder at Temile on stage and the [Stage Manager] waved his arms at her in a go away, please kind of signal.


    Uh, yeah. About thatwhy dont we take this outside? Grimalkin, I love that youre here and I want to talk with you. But theres other peopleing through. OohSelys! Your guests are all here!


    I see that. Talk to youter, Erin!


    Selys slipped away and trotted towards the Gnolls ready to help Krshia. Grimalkin looked around and then at Ferkr and Relc. Some of the guests at the nearby tables red at the muscle [Mage] as they held their hands over their ears. Grimalkin returned the res with an impervious nce, but he did nod.


    Hm. This is crowded. Lets take this outside. Sergeant Relc, Ferkr, I want to do some tests so I can see what the right posture is for all of this. I have a bench in my bag of holding and Miss Solstice can show us some grips.


    Awesome. And heygood luck Miss Ferkr! I hope you can get that [Mage] ss!


    Relc rubbed his ws together as he started for the doors. Grimalkin raised his eyebrows.


    Hope? What do you mean? Shes already a [Mage]. Level 6.


    Relc stopped in his tracks. He stared at Grimalkin, and then at Ferkr. The Gnoll was smiling.


    What? No. <em>Really?</em>


    Thats r


    Thats right. A Level 6 [Mage]. I told you it was just a myth. Shes got a long way to go to pass my sses, but she works harder than half my Drake and Duhan ckers. I have every hope that shell head to this Meeting of the Tribes the Gnolls are having and put an end to this nonsense. I could use more Gnoll apprentices. They have a foundation of muscle, and exercise in the ins that many Drakesck.


    Grimalkin nodded. He strode past Relc, holding the weights bar. The [Guardsman] gaped at Ferkr. She just smiled and followed her master out the door. So went the Muscle Mage of Pass. And Erin, waving in Xif and Rufelt and Lasica, whode early, narrowed her eyes and tried to chuckle evilly. She failed.


    -


    The inn was crowded. People wereing in, including the best [Alchemist] in the city, Xif. Rufelt and Lasica, a power couple, even Watch Captain Venim was hanging around the door on Pass side, keeping order. It was as busy as yesterday! But Erin was content to let the chaos be chaos. She had a purpose and so she headed right back to Grimalkin, who was outdoors. Only one thing stopped her.


    Octavia. Erin found the [Alchemist] sitting at a table in the corner, nursing a drink and staring around at the filled inn with wide eyes. Erin stopped at her table, guiltily. Shed forgotten Octavia was here. The [Alchemist] hadnte down for breakfast; it had only been a day since Erin had marshaled Grimalkin, Relc, and the others to help her after Numbtongue and Yellow Stters had beaten down the [Thugs] extorting her. Shed put Octavia up in one of her rooms, but in all the fuss, shed forgotten the Stitch-Girl existed.


    Until now. Erin made her way to Octavia and smiled.


    Hey Octaviahows it going? Sorry I didnt check in on you this morning. You uh, got breakfast?


    The [Alchemist] jumped. She looked up at Erin and smiled as she pushed a dreadlock back. Her dark skin was still pale, and she wassubdued. Normal Octavia was a chatterbox and a sales ma. This Octavia was just quiet.


    No problem, Erin. I appreciate you putting me up. Really. Your innsfull. Its open to Pass? Thats amazing!


    Yup! Were selling a lot! And there are tons of people! Hey! We could get some of them to check out your shopter! But dont go around making deals right now!


    Erinughed. Octavia didnt. She shook her head.


    I wont. I learned my lesson already. Dont worry about me, Erin.


    The [Innkeeper]s face fell. That really wasnt normal Octavia at all. She hesitated, and then scanned the room for someone. She spotted Xif, watching a y. Good, he was here and interested in the [Actors]. Shed have had to get him otherwise.


    Hey, dont worry about it. Look, I feel awful about what happened. Well get your shop up and running and see about guarding it or somethingjust give me a little bit! You sit back and have something to eat and drink! On the house! Theres a y onIll be back soon, okay?


    Octavia just nodded quietly. Erin frowned, worried, and pushed Octavia up her to-help list. But right now she had only one target in mind. And she found him outside, pumping iron and steel.


    Grimalkin!


    The Drake was watching Relc lift the weights bar, having him adjust his hands andment on how hard it was. To the side, Ferkr was doing curl-ups with the barbells Grimalkin had ordered. Erin saw she was doing it from various postures. She stopped, impressed. Grimalkin looked exactly like a gym instructor, albeit even huger than they were. And while Relc had poor posturehe just seemed to enjoy the fun of weight liftingGrimalkin and Ferkr both had perfect form.


    Ah, Miss Solstice. Youre here. Good. Can you tell me what the proper technique is for these weights? I think we have the standard down, but any unique positions or lifts would be appreciated. I was interested to see those squats and lunges you showed me. Anything you could add would be appreciated; Im making a routine. I want to be able to use these weights to train every muscle group possible. Arms, legs, and the core you mentioned.


    Grimalkin turned immediately to Erin, as serious as could be. Erin blinked, but she nodded.


    Sure! I dont know everythingor much, because I didnt really work out, but I remember some things. Uh, a lungecan I use the bar without weights? Thanks. A lunge looks like this, I think. And I saw a dude put a weight on his chest and do sit-ups with it once


    The muscle [Mage] snapped his ws.


    Of course! Keep going, keep going.


    He watched as Erin clumsily showed him all the lifts she knew, and then took the bar, added some weights, and executed wless versions of her clumsy demonstrations before letting Relc and Ferkr try.


    The [Sinew Magus] seemed to know what muscles each workout affected almost instinctively. Erin supposed that was appropriate given his ss, but she was very impressed nheless. After nearly half an hour of running through exercises, Erin wiped off sweat from her brow and grinned at Grimalkin.


    Hey! That was a workout! And I was just showing you how to do stuff! Thisll be a great for your sses, huh?


    My sses, and Pass army if I have my way.


    Grimalkin gave Erin an authoritative nod, which bothered her a tiny bit. She coughed.


    Well, yeah. But you dont have to do that with the <em>entire</em> army, right? I mean, youre just going to propose it


    Ferkr looked up, blinking in surprise as she did a deadlift with Relc watching. Grimalkins brows shot up as well.


    Propose it? Miss Erin, I dont think you understand. I just have toe up with a proper regimen, and put in the proper paperwork. Then the [Soldiers] will be working out with these weights.


    Erin blinked.


    Waitbut isnt that for like, [Generals] to decide? Or [Strategists]?


    Perhaps in other cities. But Ive established myself as the expert in the field of fitness and training. If a Passian [General] wants to argue with me, Ill happily p sense into their skull. I know my business and I do have a formal rank.


    Grimalkin folded his arms. Erin gaped at him, but Relc chortled.


    Whats the surprise, Erin? Grimalkins Pass best [Mage]! Right? I bet hes fought in the armytheyve definitely tried to conscript him. If hes not on bad terms with the army, theyll give him a rank. Otherwise he has to take orders from every two-copper [Lieutenant]. Thats how Drakes do these things.


    Exactly.


    The [Sinew Magus] nodded. Erin gulped. Introducing weights to an entire Walled Citys army? Okay, that wasnt part of the <em>n</em>, butshe grinned weakly at Grimalkin.


    Well, thats just great. I uh, Im d I could help out!


    Of course. And Im delighted for the aid youve given me, Miss Erin. Truly. Ill repay you for all this informationno, for revolutionizing fitness in Pass!as soon as I can ascertain how much this is all worth. I will repay my dues. But Ive taken three days out of my schedule and I think its time to get down to the business of trialing these weights on my students. Ferkr, pack up. Were heading back to Pass. Sergeant Relc, thank you for your help.


    Aw, youre packing up already? And its Relc, not Sergeant. I quit the army. Can I keep a barbell at least?


    Relc whined as Ferkr obediently began packing the weights into her bag of holding. Grimalkin smiled.


    Im afraid not. But Ill invite you to the first weightsroom? Weights arena? Ah, what did you call it, Miss Erin? <em>Gymnasium.</em> Ill certainly invite you over. And to give a demonstration of <em>real</em> strength to my apprentices!


    He shook Relcs hand briskly and tossed one of the heavier weights into his own bag of holding. Erin stared at him in horror.


    Youre going back? Already?


    Thats right. Weve gotten the exercises downunless youve recalled some more? I must leave a message at the [Mage]s Guild. Miss Solstice, if you have any more details on the weights or new techniques, send me a [Message] and I will pay for sending and receiving!


    Grimalkin turned eagerly back to Erin. She hesitated.


    Nobut hold on! The days just getting started! Why dont youe in? Have a drink? I have fresh pizza, milkshakesthe ys on! Your apprentice should really see it!


    Ferkr perked up her ears at all the new and exciting words, but Grimalkin just grimaced.


    I suppose I could look around. What did you say you made? A milk?


    Erin smiled in relief and rushed back into the inn. She grabbed a milkshake that Ishkr was bringing around on trays and rushed it over to Grimalkin.


    <em>And</em> theyre doing <em>Pygmalion</em> on stage! Look! Theyre singing and


    <em>Shh!</em>


    A furious crowd shushed her. Erin lowered her voice and meekly stepped to the back of the room. Grimalkin sniffed the milkshake, and tasted it with a forked tongue.


    Sugar and milk. Cold. I can see this being used to build fat if I was emaciated. But otherwise? Dont drink it Ferkr.


    He shook his head and Ferkr drooped as she sniffed hers. Relc looked delighted.


    Ooh, if you dont want it, Ill take it!


    Grimalkin silently passed his drink to Relc and the [Sergeant] took a gulp and savored his. Erin hesitated as well. Grimalkin was staring at the y, listening to the Drake actress, being lectured by a furious Dr. Higgins yed by a Gnoll, try to imitate a British ent. That alone was hrious on a number of levels, but Grimalkin just nodded once.


    I see. I see.


    Numbtongues also going to performter. And uh, theres Liscor as well! The Antinium are building the innI can get you pizza, drinkslook, Rufelts helping with the bar! Come on, take a seat!


    Erin was looking at the door to Pass. She needed to turn it to Celum for a tiny bit and she was dreading the fight, but getting Grimalkin rxed came first. But the [Sinew Magus] just kept looking around and thenhe shook his head.


    Mhm. Fascinating. ys. Food. Unhealthy food. Hobgoblin. I can see dismantling organized crime in Celum. That was entertaining. As for the restdo you have any more weights to show me?


    He turned brusquely to Erin. The [Innkeeper] wavered, caught off-guard. She looked around her inn.


    N-no?


    Excellent. Then Im done here. Goodbye.


    Grimalkin strode towards the door, beckoning Ferkr, who was entranced by the disy. Erin ran after him, panicked. This wasnt part of the n!


    Wait! Wait, waityou cant leave! Stay and rx a bit!


    Grimalkin paused, sighed, and turned back to Erin. He wasnt unfriendlyjust as straightforward as ever. He didnt mince words as he gestured at the door to Pass.


    It was quite fun to visit your inn thesest few days, Miss Erin. I wont deny that. But I have work to do. Youve given me the chance to redefine how [Soldiers] and [Warriors] across the Walled Citiesperhaps even the worldwill train. Id prefer to get to that.


    Arghokay, butstay for just half an hour! No, ten minutes! Your apprentice deserves a break, doesnt she?


    Erin pleaded with Grimalkin. The Drake hesitated and looked at Erin, and then at Ferkr, who looked pleadingly at him and sighed.


    I suppose ten minutes wouldnt be undue. Ferkr, by all means, enjoy yourself. And we can take one of thosepizzas back with us. A single slice wouldnt hurt. But that grease!


    He shuddered. Erin breathed out in relief.


    Great. Ill justuh, I <em>just</em> remembered I had to do something. In the door. Dont go anywhere!


    She rushed past Grimalkin. He frowned after her as Erin ran to the door to Pas and to the watching crowds outrage, mmed it and turned it to Celum. She opened the door and shouted.


    Lyte! Check in ten minutes! I need to go to the Runners Guild! Oh, please be there, please be there


    She rushed out and a momentter, the door opened and a roar of fury from Pass echoed in the inn. The [Actors] on stage dutifully recreated the scene and all was cid. Grimalkin watched the y with Relcmentating next to him. It wasnt that he wasnt interested in the performanceit was just that he had better things to do. Ferkr meanwhile was grabbing as much food and eating it as possible, savoring Erins free food.


    Ten minutester, Lyte checked the door to Celum, prompting another brief intermission and a panting Erin was back. Grimalkin nced up as Erin and a second Human entered the inn. Notwo Humans. A young man and a young woman. The young man was clearly a Runner, and the young womanGrimalkins head turned back.


    Nice muscle definition. Hm. Thats


    He was half-interested in that, half in the y, and mostly on leaving. Grimalkin was looking for his apprentice, who seemed to have wandered off in hopes of prolonging her stay, when an exmation from the trio drew his eyes back. The young woman whode in with Erin had caught sight of Numbtongue, who was wandering past, eating pizza.


    <em>Hobgoblin! </em>[Quick Kick]!


    She reflexively recoiled, and thenshed out with a kick. Grimalkin saw Numbtongue whirl, try to dodgebut the kick was too fast. It caught him on the chest, and knocked him backwards. There was power in that blow! Numbtongue flew backwards, hit a table where a pair of Gnolls were sitting, rolled over it, andnded in a crouch. The inn erupted into shouts as the Goblin made two fists and crouched, but Erin, waving her hands desperately, put herself between the Human and Hobgoblin.


    No! Garia! Its Numbtongue! Didnt you know I had Goblins athave you never seen<em>does no one read my signs?</em>


    Chaos. But quickly dispersed. Erin, panting, quickly exined and Grimalkin saw the young woman called Garia, blushing, introduce herself to the annoyed Hobgoblin along with the other Runner. The [Sinew Mage] watched as Erin slowly cated Numbtongue, and then made a beeline over to him with the Runners.


    Hey Grimalkin! Sorry about the fuss


    I wasnt part of it. It was a splendid kick, though. Excellent form. But I really should be going, Miss Solstice.


    The Drake replied calmly. He saw the young woman behind Erin blush. Out of politeness and curiosity, Grimalkin turned to her and the Runner. He held out a w.


    How do you do. Grimalkin, [Sinew Magus]. You have an impressive disy of muscles, youngdy. Compressed, though. Clearly the work of a Skill. Also the bearing ofsomeone whos lost weight. Your bnce is slightly off, but thats a [Martial Artist]s kick if ever I saw one. Nice to see some have be Runners atst. Its apatible profession.


    The young woman blinked at him.


    Ithank you! Im Garia. Garia Strongheart. Are you a [Martial Artist] by any chance?


    She grasped Grimalkins w and shook it. He grunted. [Enhanced Strength]? She <em>was</em> strong! What a treasure! At her age, she had the potential to be a real [Mage]. He was about to say so when Erin slid into the conversation.


    Grimalkins not a [Martial Artist], Garia. But hes a [Sinew Magus]! He does magicwith his muscles! Or something like that. Hey! Do you know martial arts, Grimalkin? Ohthis is Fals, by the way. Hes a Runner too. Theyre both from Celum.


    She indicated the young man. He grinned weakly up at Grimalkin, staring at a bicep.


    A pleasure, Mister Grimalkin? I run with Fals. Youre from Pass? <em>The</em> Pass?


    He looked dumbstruck as he stared around the inn. Grimalkin nodded.


    Ive dabbled in martial arts. Not my forte. But Ive travelled the world. Visited [Knights] training in Terandria, bald-headed Humans with fists like iron, Drathians, Chandrars poption in Pomleyou should see Selphid [Martial Artists], absolutely deadly. I didnt know there were any in Izril.


    I wasnt taught by one. At leastI dont think Ryoka was very high level. But Im <em>dying</em> to learn more techniques and Ryokas in the far north! Ive been leveling up like crazyI want to see how strong I can be!


    The young woman flexed a thin arm and Grimalkin narrowed his eyes. Shed definitely changed her body structure recently. He could almost extrapte how shed looked before now. But it was Garias words that lit a fire in his heart. He spoke carefully, trying not to shout.


    Young woman. You would be wasting your talents if you were just a [Martial Artist]. NoI will admit, theyre a fearsome ss. But I would be remiss if I didnt tell you to be a <em>[Mage]. </em>Like me! You clearly have a powerful foundation. [Enhanced Strength], am I right? And I assume[Weight Control]?


    Fals and Erin blinked, but Garias eyes widened. She hesitated and almost reflexively covered her stomach.


    How did you know?


    Its obvious to me. But pleasehear me out. Id be delighted to talk about [Martial Artist] techniques with you, but you <em>must</em> join one of my sses and see my curriculum. Ive studied strength, and theres more to a powerful swing than just the muscle in your arm. If youll allow me, Id like you to listen. [Martial Artist] or [Mage], you owe it to yourself to rebuild your body.


    Grimalkin held his breath. Normally here was where most people started edging away, but he had a good feeling about Garia. And the way the young womans eyes lit up was everything he wanted to see. Garia looked at Fals and Erin before nodding.


    I do. Tell me everything, please! About martial arts and


    The [Sinew Magus] exhaled. It was moments like these he lived for. He smiled and tried toe up with the most concise summary of his lifes work possible. And Erin Solstice had given him the terminology as well.


    Ah! Well, let me tell you, its all about the<em>core.</em> Yes, the core. And Ive made it my lifes work to develop a regimen that creates a strong body in as short as time possible. Now, you may stop excreting during the first few weeks of training, and I have had itpared to torture, but the results are so immediate that the elite regiments of Pass soldierse to me for a basic fitness regimen


    -


    Grimalkin and Garia stood in a corner of Erins inn, discussing everything muscle-rted with such avidness that Erin couldnt keep up. But that didnt matter. Her job was done.


    The two were so engrossed that they didnt notice as Erin and Fals drew back. Erin was smiling, but Fals, for some reason, was not. He shook his head as he looked back at Grimalkin and Garia, and a worried frown creased his brow.


    Shes changed, Erin. I dont know if I know Garia anymore. Remember the old Garia? She was timid. Very kind, butnow shes ten times as bold. And our best Runner! Frankly, Im worried shell surpass me soon, if she hasnt already. Its amazing how much this ce has changed too.


    Fals smiled tiredly at Erin. She grinned at him.


    I know! I couldnt believe it was Garia at first! Heythanks foring to the inn. I appreciate it.


    Fals chortled. He gestured around the room, his brows raised.


    And miss all this? This is incredible! I was meaning to pay a visit, but Ive been busy. Not that its exciting around here since the Goblin Lord business. Dead gods, Erin! The yers of Celum, people from <em>Pass?</em> Can you tell me whats happened?


    Of course!


    Erin beamed and led Fals off into a wondend of fast food, acting, and talking about all that had changed. But she kept an eye on Grimalkin and Garia. They took nearly half an hour to speak, and Garia looked like she was taking notes. Erin had Fals happily conversing with a Drake when she spotted the two breaking up. Quickly, Erin slid back towards Grimalkin.


    Ill be waiting for your visit. Martial arts, magontact me!


    The Drake called out to Garia. She was nodding eagerly as she went over to Fals, clearly delighted. Erin rubbed her hands together, but stopped when Grimalkin turned to her. The Drake was shaking his head.


    Amazing. That might be one of my finest pupils yet. A [Farmer] background <em>and</em> a [Martial Artist] ss? Although she haspunctions about gaining too much musclewell, I suppose thats a Runners concern. Ah, Miss Solstice. What a fantastic meeting!


    The [Sinew Magus] was clearly delighted. Erin beamed as well.


    Wasnt it? Arent you d you stayed? Say, while youre here, why dont you wait a bit longer? You could show Garia some moves, maybe! I know shed love that. And you know, I have two friends who are [Mages]. Can you do that disy of magic again, maybe? What about in Celum? Maybe you could show Pisces and Ceria a trick or two?


    For a second she thought the Drake hadnt heard her. Grimalkin was still staring at Garia, his brows raised. He smiled, clearly impressedand then did a double-take and stared back at Erin. His eyes narrowed as he registered their conversation.


    Show themwait a second.


    He looked at Garia. He stared at the door, now open to Pass, and then at Erin. The [Innkeeper] hesitated as Grimalkins brows snapped together. She didnt like the way his expression changed. Slowly, the [Sinew Magus] pointed at Garia.


    You did that on purpose. Do it again.


    What?


    Erins grinned, and a butterfly appeared in her confident stomach. Grimalkin folded his arms.


    Not forty minutes ago, I was prepared to leave. Then you convinced me to stay, and ran to get that Runner. Coincidentally, she ran into a Hobgoblin and kicked him. I suppose that was chance, but you led her straight to me. You know she wanted to learn about martial arts. Or was it magic? You set that up.


    Nowhat makes you say that?


    The inn was already hot, but Erin began to sweat. Grimalkin eyed her.


    What was it you just asked? You wanted me to show magic toah! That adventuring team. The one that wanted me to teach them [Lions Strength]. And I was about to acquiesce!


    No, hold on, that was all coincidence! I mean, it was <em>sort</em> of me knowing what Garia was like, but


    Erin began to panic. She didnt know whyit was all aboveboard! It was just people meeting people! But having the trick exposed felt <em>risky.</em> Grimalkins narrowed eyes confirmed that.


    I noticed the same thing with Maughin and my visit to Liscor. Coincidences turn into beneficial meetings for you. Pass intercedes in Liscors election. I just happen to draw a crowd with a demonstration that helps your inn. This was calcted, wasnt it?


    No.okay, maybe. But hey! Ilook, Grimalkin, Im not saying you <em>have</em> to help Ceria and Pisces. But itd be nice if you did? Maybe?


    Erins heart sank in her chest. Grimalkin was just staring at her. And there was a keen analysis running there that not many people gave Erin. She gave him her most wide-eyed look. And it didnt work. He shook his head slowly.


    Incredible. And I didnt notice itor I paid it little mind until now. Thats not a Skillor is it? You remind me of a [Senator], only highly effective at low-level dealings. Or one of the people who like to y shadow games, only on a smaller scale. Archmage Feor. Terandrian monarchs. I havent met Magnolia Reinhart, but shes an aptparison on Izril.


    <em>That </em>stung. Erin sucked in her breath.


    Um, thank you?


    Its not apliment. I suppose its obvious in hindsight. Rufelt and Lasica do the same thing. But theyre experts at making money and being liked by all. And their maniption is up-front. Honest. I see. Well, I congratte you on the trick. Do it again.


    Grimalkin stared at Erin. She hesitated.


    Uhwhat?


    He shook his head slowly.


    Unless Im wrong, the entire purpose of me arriving here was to teach Miss Strongheart martial arts. Or was she bait? Lets say that she was. Were you hoping to persuade me to teach your two [Mage] friends magic?


    M-maybe?


    Erin looked to one side, flushing a bit. Her n had been a bit more nebulous than that. ButGrimalkin frowned, then nodded.


    Very well. Ill do it.


    <em>Really?</em>


    Relieved, smiling, Erin looked up. Only to see Grimalkin extend a w and flex it slightly.


    So do it again. Show me something I want.


    Wait, what?


    The young woman frowned. Grimalkin eclipsed her frown with his own.


    Im not in the habit of lending my abilities or expertise out for free, Miss Solstice. I realize thats what friends do, but I consider you an acquaintance. So. You showed me a potential student. And youve delivered me a bunch of fascinating, unique training methods. Weights. What else do you have to offer me?


    Hey! I gave you that all out of good will! I was being helpful!


    Erin spluttered red in the face. Grimalkin nodded.


    Im quite aware. And it helped you a bit. Im not using you of lying to me, Miss Solstice. If anything, I owe you a great deal. But lets just say Im open to the possibility that youre holding something back that I might like. So. <em>Do it again.</em>


    He pointed at Garia. Erin wavered. She held up a finger. Opened her mouth to protestand Grimalkin stared at her. The two locked gazes, unblinking.


    Erin buckled first. She hesitated, and then scuffed at the floorboards, scowling. Shed meant to use this as a prod anyways. But subtly.


    Okay. Okay, there was this one thingI saw this guy using like this rubberer, <em>stic</em> band. Liketwo cords like this, see? And he stretches it across his chest, or pulls while rotating like this


    She began describing a resistance band to Grimalkin. The [Sinew Magus] eyes widened.


    Fascinating. Using sticity asyou know, I saw String-People doing something like that when I looked into how they built themselves. Of course! And thats far more portable than


    He caught himself and narrowed his eyes again.


    And you just recalled that. Just now.


    Erin grinned sheepishly at Grimalkin and shrugged. He eyed her, and then smiled.


    A pleasure doing business with you, Miss Solstice. A training session it is! One. For those two [Mages]? Ill dly teach Miss Strongheart some techniques free of charge. She cannot be allowed to go to waste.


    He gestured at the Horns and Garia with one w. Erin spluttered.


    <em>One? </em>But Ceria said shed have to learn from you for at least a week to learn a Tier 4 or Tier 5 spell


    Who said anything about spells? Ill check on their fitness, their aptitude, rmend how they should progressits actually quite effective. I <em>am</em> an expert [Mage], after all. If those two have any holes, I will fix them. [Necromancer] or [Cryomancer]. Of course, teaching them spells will require more time, and if they have any significant ws, Ill need to remedy them.


    But you said one training session


    Well, until youe up with another splendid idea for me to work on. Ill take them in advance. Resistance bands, indeed. Any more training techniques? Other weights?


    Grimalkin peered down at Erin. She could only splutter in reply. After a second he nodded.


    Well then, one session it is. More toe, on condition of course. And if you have any more requests, feel free to seek me out with appropriate payment. I take ideas, artifacts, chance encounters, or whatever else you can manufacture.


    He waited. Erin stared at him, and then, flustered, looked around.


    L-Lyte? Get me the Faerie Flowers and a mug of ale!


    The [Princess] came over as Erin rushed over to the windowsill. Xif, watching the end of Pygmalion, looked up with interest as the two fussed over a mug and came back to Grimalkin. He watched, arms folded, never taking his eyes off Erin. She offered him the mug, grinning weakly.


    Uh, want a Faerie Flower drink?


    Whats it do?


    The Drake eyed the mug. Erin bit her lip and looked at Lyte. The [Princess] had caught wind of what had gone down and was looking amused. Erin weakly shrugged.


    If you have a horrible trauma, it might help? Its uh, one-of-a-kind, I think. Sorta.


    Grimalkin considered the mug.


    No thanks. My traumas arent that significant. Anything else?


    Nothing I can think of.


    Erin locked gazes with Grimalkin. After a second, the Drake nodded. He smiled at her.


    Well, then, one session it is. Ill do my best of course. Id love to jog your memory.


    He nodded at Lyte and strode through the crowd, avoiding touching everyone with ease. Erin bit her lip and Lyteughed.


    Someone actually figured out you were manipting them behind the scenes, Erin?


    The [Innkeeper] shrugged ruefully. She wasnt so much upset at being found out as <em>embarrassed</em>. Grimalkin had treated her like some kind of calcting maniptor! Which she wasnt. Okay, sort of, but


    Hes smart. Damn. And he wants me to give him more ideas and stuffor introduce him to people or he wont train Ceria and Pisces! I really wasnt going to <em>manipte</em> him into helping them


    Sure, Erin.


    I wasnt! I was just, you know, going to make them all get along? He was interested in Yvlons arms and I thoughtgah! Never mind! Now he wants me to pay him!


    Erin waved her arms, still red in the face. Lyte stopped smirking long enough to look interested.


    <em>Do</em> you have anything to bribe him with.


    Erin covered her face with one hand, thinking.


    I dunno, treadmills I guess? Gravity weight training? I saw that in an anime. UhI really didnt have much else. No, parkour-ish stuff. Yoga? Oh! Yoga! Maybe. If I remember any of my yoga ss. Now I have to think! Why was <em>he</em> the one who saw through me?


    She stared at Grimalkins back, and then, to her surprise, saw the Drakes form waver and <em>vanish</em>. Ishkr, carrying a tray past him, nearly dropped it in rm. And a voice spoke right next to Erin and Lyte.


    I work out my brain as well as everything else, Miss Erin. Whats this about treadmills? Im familiar with gravity training, by the way. Parkour and yoga. Are they martial arts forms? No? Fascinating.


    The two young women spun around. Grimalkin was standing behind them, arms folded. He nodded as Erin pointed at the ce where his illusion had been and at him, jaw working furiously. He raised both brows.


    Have you never met anyone properly high-level before, Miss Solstice? You shouldnt underestimate Pass. Or didnt you notice that we have as many talents as you?


    He nodded past her. Erin, spun again and saw Xif was peering at the bed of Faerie Flowers. He was sniffing the air and eying the small yellow blossoms in their bed. She could hear him muttering out loud in a break as the [Actors] on stage changed ys.


    Hmm, hm. Fascinating. Blue fruits? Shield Spider materials. And this flower


    <em>Damnit!</em>


    Erin cursed. Or was this an opportunity. She looked back and Grimalkin nodded to her. His smile wasnt smug, but it was superior.


    Youre among equals, Miss Solstice. Well, at the very least. Ill be on with that lesson now. Please be as specific as you can when you tell me about these treadmills and so on. Tread. Mills. Huh. Actually, I think I understood that one without need for help. Well, Ill wait for your actual exnation. As I said, Im happy to spend time training these adventurers. A pleasure to be manipted by you.


    He nodded at Erin and walked past her. Erin opened her mouth, then for once, closed it. She turned bright red and said not a word for a whole minute. Lyte stared at Grimalkin in awe. He winked at her as he strolled over to the Horns of Hammerad.


    -


    Xif the [Alchemist] still smelled of nose-searingly strong chemicals and ingredients when Erin found him looking over her box of Faerie Flowers. The bright, small yellow flowers were much like short dandelions, although the flower petals were much more exotic. And Erin had quite a number of boxes of them! With Mrshas help and daily watering, the few flowers shed had now filled eight nter boxes.


    Honestly, Erin hadnt made use of them for a long timethe Faerie Flower drink was powerful, but shed been worried after seeing its effect on Halrac and Ilvriss. And her [Wondrous Fare] Skill wasnt something Erin had really needed or wanted to focus on. Magical dishes were cool, but with all the turns and twists in her life, they werent something she could devote time for.


    And yet, someone was focusing very hard on her flowers, and it wasnt Apista for once. The Ashfire Bee waszily clinging to a ceiling, but Xif was peering very hard at each flower, sniffing hard and even going so far as to try and taste the nectarthat was when Erin caught him.


    Xif! Hi! Dont lick the nectar or eat the flowers. They do uh, weird things to your head. Hey! Can I introduce you to a friend? Octavia? Shes a bit downdid you hear about the Celum stuff yesterday?


    Erin smiled desperately as the [Alchemist] paused, with one w extended towards his tongue. Xif blinked at her, and his usually befuddled, look focused as he blinked two brown eyes at her.


    Octavia? Hm. Oh yes, the young [Alchemist]. I was there for that. But ahperhaps in a moment. Im truly more interested in these flowers, Miss Solstice. I caught you makingwas that a drink?


    Oh, that? The Faerie Flower drink! Good for making you think about what ails you! Im working on the tagline. Uh, yeah, Im thinking about selling it, but its sort of strong! The flowers are strong too, really. Actually, they have a few uses! <em>But </em>I wouldnt want you to get hurt or something.


    Erin shuddered as she recalled trying the nectar and having her Alice in Wondend freak-out. Xif raised his brows.


    Really? Multiple uses? Well, Id love to experience each one. Unless it makes your fur fall out? Hah! But thatd be an improvement in my case, wouldnt it?


    He grinned and Erin smiled despite herself. Still, she couldnt help but feel slightly possessive over the flowers. They had been a reward, of sorts, for her Frost Faerie banquet. That had been real magic. Her magic.


    Of course, Lyte had urged Erin to sell the flowers to Xif if he wanted them. The [Princess] had gold coins for eyes these days. Erin sighed.


    They dont make your fur fall out. They <em>do</em> do weird things to you, like uh, make you see things or go to sleepthen againthe Faerie Flower drink might be my thing. I have a Skill.


    She frowned at the flowers. That was a good point. Had she ever let anyone else try making the Faerie Flower drink? Erin had [Wondrous Fare]. What would happen if Lyte copied her? Would it be like Octavia? Now she had questions. So did Xif. His eyes lit up as Erin described the flowers.


    Really? Multiple effects withoutbining with a magical base or other ingredients? You just added that into the alcoholthese flowers <em>are</em> fairly powerfully magical then! I thought so! Amazing! What species are they? Where did you get them from? Ive <em>never </em>seen the like! Has Miss Octavia tried using them?


    No, Itheyre from far away. Gifts! They were a gift. And I havent let Octavia try to use them.


    Guiltily, Erin realized that was something the [Alchemist] could have used. Butthese were special flowers. Not even of this world. Xif frowned.


    I see. Theyre special. Hmm. But with what youve saidMiss Solstice, I must buy them from you. New, highly magical ingredients? Id shave off all my fur and walk around naked like Saliss before I turned up an opportunity like this! Come to it, hed put on clothes for a month for these! How much for one nter box?


    He eagerly pointed to one of the boxes of flowers. Erin hesitated, and saw Lytes head whip around. The [Princess] hurried over.


    If you want a box, we have plenty! We could sell maybe


    No.


    Erin brought Lyte up short. The [Princess] opened her mouth, but Erin overrode her and Xif. She smiled at the Gnoll [Alchemist], but firmly shook her head.


    Im sorry, Xif, but these arent for sale. They were a very important gift andwell, Im not selling them.


    Lyte stared at Erin, horrified. Xif looked appalled too.


    Miss Solstice, these could be a wonderful boon to [Alchemists] everywhere. A powerful antidote, a life-saving reagent in a potionthey could be the Eir Gel of alchemical discoveries!


    Exactly! And we dont use many now the Ashfire Bees are gone. Let alone your drinksErin, can I speak with you for one second?


    Lyte tugged on Erins arm, frowning hard. But Erin was unmoved. She thought of Grimalkin and his announcement that Pass army would be using weights. That was one thing. But this? She hesitated. Life-changing medicine? But some selfish part of her, childish, made her shake her head again.


    No. Im sorry, but no. Lyte, thats final.


    She put her foot down. It was hers. Her magic, however small. Xif looked crestfallen. Lyte looked like she was going to have a heart attack. Erin relented a touch.


    What if I sold you the petals and nectar and stuff? Id be okay with that.


    Xif frowned and scratched the hair on his chin, but the Gnoll shook his head. He bent down and eyed a flower sprouting from a bulb and then shook his head.


    As tempting as it would beI think I would rather have the flower, Miss Solstice. An entire flower, rather. You see, its not just about the ingredients. Call it the [Alchemist] in me, but these are toohow long have you grown these flowers?


    Erin shrugged.


    A few months. Since winter.


    I see. And these have germinated like this?


    Xif indicated the short flowers. Erin nodded proudly.


    Thats right! We rented them as they kept growing. I only had a handful, but they multiplied and Mrsha looked after them with Lytewhy?


    The Gnoll mumbled to himself. He peered at each flower, and then nodded slowly.


    Theyre all the same.


    Excuse me?


    I mean, they dont have any characteristics of full-grown nts. No reproductive elements.


    He looked up at Lyte and Erins nk faces.


    Havent you seen dandelions turn into the white fuzzy seedpods? Or witnessed grass growing seeds? These are to grass and dandelions. Short, unmatured. That they can still reproduce is no surprise; many nts can do that. But theyre not fully developed. And if its been months, there may be another trigger.


    So saying, he straightened and tapped the nter box in front of him. Xif looked seriously at Erin.


    I dont believe theyre fully grown, Miss Solstice. In fact, Id stake my best potions on that. Id like to ship these to a friend in Oteslia. Their [Gardeners] are the best in the world. If anyone could ascertain the exact nature of this nt, it would be them. Your price?


    Erins jaw dropped. <em>Not fully grown?</em> She looked at the flowers, bue to think of it, Xif was right. Erin did know what he was talking about. The Faerie Flowers could just be flowers but they were just stalks with blooms on the end. They had no flowers. No <em>seeds</em>.


    Xif was right. And yet, Erin still hesitated.


    Maybe. But I want to keep my flowers, thanks.


    She didnt know why it mattered so much to her. In fact, she was beginning to regret her stubbornness, except for the idea in her head. <em>She</em> could try growing the flowers herself. And when she found out if they evolved or something, sell them to Xif. Octavia could corner the market! Shed give some to Octavia to make up for ignoring her.


    Xif frowned, as if reading Erins thoughts. He sighed, looking at the flowers, and then looked sternly at Erin.


    I understand your desire to keep whats yours, Miss Solstice. Drakes are very much like that. But you realize, these flowers are invaluable as a new discovery to me. And if they are as valuable as I think, Im afraid Ill have to make you an offer you cant refuse.


    Erin felt a chill down her spine. She took a step back from Xif as Lyte stiffened. Erins hand instantly went for her belt.


    Youre threatening me?


    She couldnt believe it! And neither could Xif! He looked horrified as she ced a hand on the kitchen knife Pelt had made.


    What? <em>Threatening</em> you? Im no [Thug] of an [Alchemist]! I just said Id use a Skill.


    Oh, a Skill!


    Lyte looked relieved. Erin just looked nk. Xif <em>tutted.</em>


    Dear me, the expressions you Humanse up with. I put my tail in my mouth all the time, though. Better just to do it now. Miss Solstice, I invoke [The Avid Collector]. Name your price for a single flower.


    Erin blinked. He was pointing at a flower. She wasnt going to


    Twenty<em>two hundred and twenty gold pieces for a flower.</em>


    The words popped out of her mouth before Erin realized she was speaking. Lytes eyes <em>popped</em>. Xif just smiled.


    Done!


    He reached out and offered Erin a paw. She shook it, realized what she was doing, and pulled her hand back.


    Damn!


    Toote!


    Xif smiled happily and ruefully at Erin. And as surely as she knew her inn, Erin realized that one of the flowers in the box belonged to him. And two hundred and twenty gold pieces belonged to <em>her.</em> Lyte looked like she was going to swallow her tongue as Xif pulled out his bag of holding and began setting gold coins on a table. He had them in stacks of ten. Erin just stared at Xif for a moment.


    You cantthat wasntthats not <em>fair!</em>


    But it was at the same time. She had <em>felt</em> the deal go through as she shook his paw. Erin looked around, Xif was smiling apologetically at her. But she wanted


    <em>Venim!</em>


    The Watch Captain winced as he stood on Pass side of the door. Erin stomped <em>through</em> the door and confronted him, ignoring the upset crowd who wanted to watch the y. The Drake wearily looked at Erin.


    Yes Miss Solstice?


    Xif just used a Skill on me! He made me sell one of my flowers to him!


    Really?


    The Watch Captains eyes sharpened as Erin ryed the transaction to him. But when she came to him using his Skill, his eyes brightened.


    He bought a flower for <em>how much?</em>


    Arge number of heads turned and Erin hesitated.


    Wellthats not important! But he made me sell the flowers and I cant take it back! You have to force him to stop it!


    She felt embarrassed saying it, really. It was way more gold than the flowers were worth! And yet, she was outraged because shed been forced to make the deal. But Venim only chewed his lip for one second before shaking his head.


    Its legal. You cant name a price you wont sell for. He just forced a sale. Passianw epts that, Miss Solstice.


    Venim looked delighted to be able to say that. Erin stared at his face. Behind her, Kel the [Guardsman] grinned triumphantly. Venims lips were twitching too. Erin red around.


    How is <em>that</em> fair? What if he wanted me to sell a precious heirloom or something?


    Venim shrugged.


    The fact is, he did not, Miss Solstice. He forced you into a deal you were willing to take. Its not always pleasant, but Skill-based sales are acknowledged as a legal tool across the world. If it <em>was</em> hical, you could appeal itlike how I hear [ve Traders] can force someone to sell themselves into very. But I doubt itll win given your supply of nts.


    He looked pointedly back into Erins inn. She looked back glumly and saw Xif was going from flower to flower, followed by Lyte, who had helpfully dug out a spoon and cup to transport the precious bloom in. The Gnoll hummed happily as he picked his small flower out of the box and carefully rented it in a mug.


    I dont like it.


    You dont have to, Miss Solstice. But Im afraid you must abide by it. Unless you have a better Skill.


    Venim smiled politely and triumphantly at Erin. She stared at him.


    Maybe I do.


    Without another word, she hurried back into her inn and found a Drake in the crowd. Selys had heard themotion of course, and when Erin exined what had happened, the newly-made [Heiress] dly apanied her over to Xif. Erin smiled sweetly at the [Alchemist], who coughed politely.


    Im sorry about that, Miss Solstice. But it is one flower. And I meant what I said; it could save lives. At the very least, it could make a profit. And Im nothing if not eager for that. In either case, you stand to gain greatly.


    Erin smiled sweetly at Xif.


    I know. And I know youre being nice, but I dont like being made to do anything. Sohey Xif! This is my friend Selys.


    The Drake shook Xifs hand. She peered at Xif and the flower he had chosen that Lyte was carefully excavating. It did have roots, small ones, but it was a nt.


    [The Avid Collector], huh? Thats a Skill that probably lets youplete your inventory as an [Alchemist]. Neat trick. I can do that too. <em>[Everything Has A Price].</em> Hey Xif, how much for Erins nt?


    The nearby Drakes and Gnolls <em>oohed</em>. They were of course, listening in. Erin was entertainment, even if it was in this case, unwilling. Xif blinked and raised his brows. He stared at Selys. And then smiled.


    Mm. Two thousand gold pieces, yes?


    The Drakes jaw dropped. So did Erins. Xif chortled at their expressions. He patted Selys gently on the shoulder with a toothy smile.


    If I only have one chance to take a flower like this, Im hardly likely to sell it for less than what I bought it for, yes? Nice try, Miss Selys. But Im good at appraising goods. And I deal with rich [Merchant] on asion. Still, you have a wonderfully useful Skill, youngdy. Much better than mine.


    Selys flushed, and Erin looked at Xif and realized shed lost. He smiled apologetically at her and she began to get angry. Then she looked at the pile of gold coins and just felt defeated.


    -


    <em>Lasica! </em>Xif is bullying me!


    Erin slumped on the counter next to the [Chef]. Lasica paused in drinking from a bubbling concoction her husband had just served her from behind the bar. She eyed Xif, looked at Erin, and smiled.


    I heard. He forced you to sell those pretty flowers, didnt he?


    I meanyes? And its a lot of gold! <em>But</em> he made me do it! And Grimalkin


    Erin turned red as she remembered that exchange. Lasica raised one brow and Erin couldnt help it.


    He saw through my clever ploy! Grimalkin, I mean.


    What, by figuring out you were luring him here along with everyone else? Please, Erin. Rufelt, Xif, and Ieven love-struck Maughin probably figured it out. Not that anyonesining.


    Wait, <em>you</em> knew I set all this up?


    Lasicaughed at the look on Erins face. She reached over and tapped Erin on the nose.


    Not at first. But it was obvious soon enough. Like Rufelt saidyoure a special type of [Innkeeper]. But did you really think we couldnt tell we were being led to go along with your flow? Whats your Skill youre using? [Crowd Control]? Something on top of that? Your inn just lights up with energy when you want it to.


    Erin bit her lip and flushed a bit. Lasica and Rufelt knew too? The Drakeughed again, but gently.


    I guess I was using some Skills unconsciously. ButI wasnt <em>trying</em> to trick you all. Its just that I knew if you came here, and Krshia and people from Liscor met youit wasnt a big n! Sort of. I just wanted my friends to be happy.


    She mumbled into the counter. Lasicaughed and patted Erin affectionately on the head.


    I know. And I think Grimalkin knows. And he must like youhe doesnt listen to anyone he doesnt like. Much less teach students besides his own? Erin! Thats a huge honor! Grimalkins students are among the best the Walled Cities have to offer!


    Really?


    Erin perked up a bit. Grimalkin had disappeared outside with the Horns a bit ago. Lasica nodded seriously.


    Oh yes. They might get teased because the Muscle Mage of Pass was their teacher, but not to their face. A graduate of Grimalkins is considered a rank above your average Wistram graduate. Not least because he teaches his students how to <em>fight.</em> They could be promoted the equivalent of [Captain] in most Drake armies just by having his graduation certificate.


    Wow. Welllook, Im sorry, okay? Im not trying to be sneaky about it. And youre all friends to me! You and Rufelt were really nice, Lasica. Really.


    Now Erin wanted Lasica to be sure Erin wasnt a jerk. She looked seriously at the Drake.


    You two were really nice to help me out. And after you let mee to your bar all those times! I have to repay you. Lets go to the kitchen when you have a moment. I want to teach you all my recipes. Because were friends. Not just because youre helping me, okay?


    The [Chef] waved an idle w.


    Oh, thats fine, Erin. Dont worry about it. I already know all of them.


    Huh?


    Nonplussed, Erin stared at Lasica. The [Chef] twirled a w in her drink and licked it.


    I saw all your food as it wasing out. Its not veryplex to create, any of it. And there are simr foods from across the world. You have some interesting ones, Ill grant you! But its nothing on magical cooking or dishes made with monster parts, like Wyvern meat or slimes.


    She gestured to Ishkr, passing with ketchup and mayonnaise and a lot of fries. Erin spluttered.


    Butwhateven the mayonnaise?


    Lasica gave her a reproving look.


    I <em>am</em> a [Chef]. Eggs, vinegar, salt, and oil, processed for a long time? Id add some lemon maybe, or even a bit of mustard. But thats my taste.


    Erin stared at Lasica. Then she slowly covered her face with her hands.


    I give up! Im outmatched!


    Lasica chortled again. She patted Erin on the back.


    Dont worry about it. We came here because we liked you and want to help a young [Innkeeper] seed. Let Rufelt make you a drink. Do you need help in the kitchen? Rufelt,e over and help poor Erin out. And maybe you can teach her some of your drinks. You really need better alcohol, Erin.


    Grinning, she waved her husband over and he did make her a drink that took most of the embarrassment out of Erins chest. Most, but not all. As husband and wife surrounded Erin and Xif came over to apologize again, she felt it in the air. A small message from Pass finest to her.


    Gently, teasingly, and yes, kindly, they were telling her that she might have been getting arrogant. When she realized that, Erin put down her head on the bar and turned so red that Mrsha put an ice cube on her ear to watch it melt.


    -


    Onest encounter found Erin in her inn. Shed lost most of her motivation to rush around ying chance encounter matchmaker. In fact, she was sitting at a table, ying chess with herselfthe magical chessboard was silent today, her opponent must be busy from their usual semi-daily gameswhen Watch Captain Venim found her. He was leading another, elderly Drake, and he cleared his throat meaningfully.


    Miss Solstice. May we have a word?


    No.


    The Watch Captain frowned. Erin looked up briefly as she rearranged her pieces.


    Im not doing whatever you want. Its take-Erin-down-a-peg day today. I know whats up. Im just gonna y chess here. Dont bother me. Im sulking.


    She went back to her chess game. Venim looked askance and nervously checked the old Drake at his side. The Drake had very grey scales, with only a hint of yellow in them.


    Miss Solstice, my guest


    Shush, young Drake. If the girl wants to sulk, let her sulk. Get me a snack, would you? Some of those cookies look good. And some rum! Rufelt knows what I like.


    The old Drake hobbled past Venim and pulled a chair out opposite Erin. He sat down without being invited. Affronted, Erin looked up. The Drake peered at the chessboard and poked a piece.


    Hm. White or ck?


    Whck.


    The response came out of Erin before she caught herself. She frowned as the old Drake began putting the rest of the white pieces in order.


    Hold on, Im not in the mood to y, Mister?


    Chaldion.


    The old Drake inspected the pieces, then, without hesitation, moved his knight to F3. Erin red, annoyed, but her chess instincts took over. She moved a pawn to D5 without hesitation.


    Hm. Good. Most of Passs young [Strategists] ponder for minutes over their next moves. At least this time I wont be bored.


    Chaldion smiled. He was missing some teeth, but they were very white. With one w he picked up a pawn and moved it to C4. Erin blinked. She stared at the board and then slowly moved her pawn to E6. The old Drake considered it, nodded, and moved his pawn to D4, taking her pawn there. Erin blinked.


    <em>Rti Opening to Queens Gambit Declined.</em> They were fancy names, but it was really just a short back and forth. But there was a confidence in the Drakes cement that made part of her sit up.


    Sir!


    Venim was back with a handful of cookies and arge ss of rum mixed with blue fruit juice. Chaldion epted both happily.


    Whats this, whats this? Some new drink Rufelts made?


    I told him your regr sir. If you dont like it


    Thats for me to decide! Hands off! And if Rufelt made it, Ill like it. Dont bother me. Im ying. And keep those pesky [Tacticians] and [Strategist] brats out of my spines for a bit!


    Chaldion grumpily shooed Venim away. Erin looked up as Venim hesitated, then saluted and beat a hasty retreat. Then she looked at Chaldion. Really looked at him.


    The old Drake was nearlypletely grey, as old as anyone Erin had ever met in this world. As old as Tekshia, but like her, he looked like steel, tough inside. Unlike her, he had an eye patch over his right eye and several scars on his face. He grinned at her when she looked up.


    Finally looking at me, young woman? Your move.


    He pointed and Erin realized hed moved a piece. This time she considered it. Pawn to D5. Hed taken her pawn. She thought, and moved her pawn from D2 to D4 up. Chaldion nodded patiently and moved his piece.


    Whore you? I thought Watch Captain Venim was important.


    Watch Captains are. But age is a rank of its own. And Pass has multiple Watch Captains. At least one per floor. Anyways, I outrank them. Wonderful like, that. Id love to meet that young [Strategist], but apparently hes not wee in this inn, is that it? Well, Im just here for food and a game.


    Chaldion chuckled. Erin frowned as she took one of his pieces. He was yingwell. She narrowed her eyes.


    So whore you? Im Erin. An [Innkeeper]. This is my inn.


    Chaldion took a tip from his ss and brightened.


    Sweet! Just the thing for brain food. Wonderful sweets you have here. Who am I? Chaldion. A humble old Drake too stubborn to retire.


    He grinned mockingly at Erin. She just raised a brow.


    Really?


    Ah, youre no fun. My historys boring. Im just a [Veteran Strategist] from Pass, here to y a game of chess. Are you ying or not?


    He tapped the board. Nettled, Erin began to move and realized hed set a trap four moves ahead. She moved out of the way and took another piece. Heughed.


    And one assumes youre the person that Olesm Swifttail has been sourcing for those excellent chess games, arent you?


    Maybe.


    Erin folded her arms. The game was going quickly in the opening, but they were slowing down as theplexity ramped up. She already had a feel for Chaldion. He was good. Not as good as her mystery chess opponent maybe, but second-best. Better than anyone else Erin had yed.


    Suddenly, Erin realized this was the fourth of the trials sent to humble her. Probably. Maybe. But in chess? She gritted her teeth. Not in <em>chess</em>. This was her game. She began ying her best. Chaldion frowned and drank deeper from his ss.


    You <em>are</em> good.


    In silence, the two traded blows, moving their pieces, aiming at each others weak spots. To Erin, it felt like a tipping point around twenty minutes into this game. And move twenty. Both she and Chaldion had slowed down a lot.


    If Erin was a lower-level chess yer, or ying another sort of game, like teaching Mrsha or against a weaker opponent, she could see a much longer game taking ce. But against her mystery chess opponentno, against anyone who knew the gamea chess game took only a certain number of moves before a winner was obvious.


    You could y it out, but most games between professionals ended with an agreed drawor one side conceding. She didnt know if Chaldion would insist on ying to the end, but she felt the tipping pointing. And she had the upper hand.


    He knew it too. The [Strategist] paused as he eyed the board and Erins advantage in pieces and position. Then he reached up and one w grasped his teal eye patch. Erin stared as Chaldion flipped it up and she saw that there <em>was</em> another eye there. But it wasnt like a regr eye. The old Drake <em>had</em> lost his and reced it with a sapphire


    A bright, blue light shed from the carved eyeball. Erin recoiled, but Chaldion flipped the eye patch down. He took a nibble from a cookie and nodded.


    [Truesight]. Youre not using a trick. This is just skill, isnt it?


    Whyeah. Hey! You thought I was <em>cheating?</em>


    Erin was outraged. Chaldion just smiled.


    I wanted to see if you were using magic or a Skill. Neither, it seems. Well, time to get serious. Shall we?


    And suddenly his eyes sharpened. Erin didnt know why, but the next move Chaldion made was quick and <em>decisive</em>. She saw him take a pawn, far away from his threatened bishop and hesitated. What was?


    The next six moves were disastrous. Erin took a bishop, a pawnand lost her queen. It was a split attack she hadnt seening that opened her up. And it was so graceful that when she realized her position, it was toote. Chaldion took the queen and regarded the board.


    Mine, I believe. Unless you want to y it out?


    No. I lost. Howd youthat was <em>perfect.</em>


    Erin stared at the board. It was beyond perfect. Computers could y perfect games, but Chaldion had tricked her into that loss. She looked up and saw him smiling. The Drake slowly tapped his chessboard.


    [Path to Victory]. Its simpler with easy games. You wouldnt happen to be able to show me this Go game, or Shogi, would you?


    Erin stared. And then shot out from her seat.


    You <em>cheated?</em>


    Chaldion shrugged.


    I used a Skill to win. Its a strategic decision. What? Havent you had someone use a Skill on you while ying?


    He offered her a gap-toothed grin. Erin inhaled in outrageand then she stared at the board. Ruefully, she sat back down.


    Only once.


    Really? Maybe young Swifttail doesnt have any to use. He doese here, doesnt he? Well, I y games like I fight wars. Everything goes. Too bad you dont have a few Skills to use on me; thatd make for a fun match.


    Chaldion grinned. Erin sniffed.


    Yeah. All I can do is poison your cookies.


    He choked, and then began tough. Erin pulled the chessboard out of the spray, and then found herselfughing too. She looked at Chaldion and then at her board. Shed lost. And hed done it so elegantly too, Skill or not. Hed handed her a defeat, right in her inn, face-to-face. For once, she had underestimated <em>him</em> and not the other way around.


    No one had done that in this world until that moment. She smiled, and the genuine joy in it was reflected in the Drakes eyes. He chortled as Erin looked around and shouted.


    <em>Ishkr?</em> Get me that Shogi set!


    And as Ishkr came over and Erin and Chaldion began discussing Shogi rules, Rufelt and Lasica watched from their bar. Rufelt eyed Venim and a few Drakes and a Gnoll whode through and were staring intently at the board.


    Chaldion himself? Thats something you dont see every day. He doesnt even visit Tails and Scales that often. Erin really is special, isnt she, love?


    Lasica smiled.


    Shes not bad.


    The two of them looked over. Lyte was sitting at the bar as Mrsha sipped from a goats milk drink on herp. The [Princess] looked at them, a bit wide-eyed.


    Youre treating her like, well, another person. <em>Erin.</em>


    Rufelt chuckled and Lasica rolled her eyes. She sipped from her drink and munched on a few bar nuts theyd brought from their establishment.


    Of course. Were a Walled City. Did you think she waspletely unique? Shes special, Ill grant you, but we have at least a few dozen people as strange as her. I think its a good experience, to be honest. Shes a bright young girl, but shes been special for too long. Thats what I think. Rufelt?


    The [Barkeep] nodded. He looked at Erin and with the expertise of someone who could tell what drink someone needed, and if they needed words, silence, or to be knocked into oblivion by alcohol, nodded.


    I think she needs to be a girl without the weight of the world on her shoulders for a little bit. So lets let Chaldion kick her around for a bit.


    You think she cant beat him more than he beats her? Chaldion may be ruthless and crafty, but as a fellow female, I have to say Erin will surprise him. Or dont you agree, my dear?


    Lasica raised her brows. Rufelt grinned.


    Well, if were taking bets on it


    He looked down the bar. And Relc, Maughin and Jqua, a disgruntled Seborn, Bevussa, Selys, and all the other friends and guests dug in their money pouches. After all, it <em>was</em> entertainment.


    -


    That was Erins tale. But while she was being humbled and being <em>normal</em>, a second story, or rather, an anecdote yed just outside her inn. But because it was Grimalkin, it was upgraded into a full narrative of his own. The Drake stretched his arms out as the Horns of Hammerad faced him.


    Youre really going to teach us magic?


    Thats what I said. Should I repeat myself?


    Grimalkin sighed. He looked at the Horns. Ceria and Pisces exchanged a nce.


    Why?


    Miss Solstice offered me her assistance. So Ill correct any bad habits Wistrams drummed into you. If you have ws in yourbat style, I will fix them, and teach you a few spells. If Miss Solsticees through on her end. For now, I want to see what your capabilities are.


    How <em>generous.</em>


    Pisces sneered back at Grimalkin. Hed gone back to contempt after their first encounter. The [Necromancer] flicked a hand and bones began to flow out of his bag of holding, arranging themselves into a Bone Horror.


    While I appreciate your superior magical abilities for now, Magus Grimalkin, what makes you think were not capable of teaching ourselves? Ceria and I have both made considerable progress in our personal studies.


    Yeah. Considerable.


    Ceria flushed. Pisces had, with his ever-improving Bone Golems andte nights recreating them into deadlier forms. Sheusually drank and rxed with a bit of spellbook reading after a mission from the Adventurers Guild. Grimalkin didnt look impressed as he eyed the Bone Golem, however. It was turning into the ssic double-headed war bear. He pointed at it and spoke.


    If thats supposed to impress me, its failing. Ive seen [Necromancers] and youre far from Azkerash, Pisces. That may work for Silver-rank threats, but any <em>decent</em> [Mage] will just say [Dispel Magic].


    The Bone Horror, which had been building upwards, fell to pieces. Pisces and Ceria gaped at the bones lying on the ground. Yvlon and Ksmvr looked up. The [Wounded Warrior] bit her lip, trying not tough.


    Pisces?


    That wasI was in the middle of animating that! You wouldnt be able to do that if I finished the spell!


    Pisces spluttered, face red. Grimalkin raised his brows.


    Which is why I cast it before you finished. Your animation time is <em>slow</em>. Do you really think an opponent would give you that space in battle? Or was that meant to be intimidating? I told you two. Show me your <em>magic.</em>


    He gestured at Ceria and Pisces. The two looked at each other. Yvlon and Ksmvr watched as the two put their heads together. Yvlon casually unsheathed her sword.


    Are we fighting too?


    If you like. This is just appraisal. But I might as well study your teamwork. Use the sword, by all means.


    Its got a fairly powerful enchantment of [Weight] on it.


    Yvlon warned Grimalkin. Ksmvr had armed himself with his shortsword and Forceshield. Grimalkin nodded, absently watching Pisces pulling the bones back into his bag of holding. Ceria had drawn her wand and was swishing it back and forth with her skeletal hand.


    A swords only good if it touches me. Which it wont.


    Yvlon sucked in her breath. Grimalkin fixed her with one eye.


    Im no adventurer. But I am Pass greatest [Mage]. Ill defend that title to anyone who challenges meI dont see the rest of the [Mages] lining up to try. Miss Byres, right? Swing as hard as you want. Ill praise your gonads at least.


    There was no response to that. Yvlon just pulled out her helmet and fastened it to her armor grimly. Pisces and Ceria were also gearing up. The [Necromancer] flexed one hand as Ceria lined up.


    Standard formation, guys. Ill do my thingKsmvr, nk while Yvlon attacks. But give Pisces enough time to summon his Bone Horror and well all go in.


    The other two nodded. Grimalkin sighed. He looked at Pisces.


    Youre not summoning your undead ahead of time?


    If this were an <em>ambush</em>, I would have plenty of faith in the speed of my animation.


    Pisces <em>sniffed.</em> Grimalkin just studied the sky. He eventually looked back down when Ceria coughed.


    What? Begin when youre ready.


    With that, he kept looking up. Ceria looked at Yvlon and Pisces. He glowered and Yvlon nodded. Ceria nodded back and then raised her wand and shouted.


    <em>[Ice Wall]!</em>


    A thick wall of ice shot upwards, blocking him from the Horns. It was wide, and tallCeria gritted her teeth as the wall came up, thickening, growing from one foot to two feet. Pisces instantly pointed and bones flowed out of his bag.


    <em>Those who have died, heed my call, rise twice to bring to my enemies</em>


    It was a chant, hastening the speed at which the bones assembled into the Bone Horror, three times as fast as before. Grimalkin stared as Yvlon set herself and Ksmvr readied his shield. Ceria grinned. The wall was three feet thick now, solid ice! Shed practice with that spell. She called out to Grimalkin.


    See? Buying time. Its our basic strategy. Not bad, right? It can at least contain most enemies. In fact, we killed a bunch of Crelers, baby ones, using this


    She was ready for him to try to jump over the wall, or go around. If he did, Ceria would freeze him in midair or create another wall and stymie him. That was the trick Pisces hade up with. When he made the first move, the Horns would scatter, use mobility against him as Yvlon took him on. He was strong, but ice spells were perfect in group fights.


    But Grimalkin didnt dash or jump or even take a step. He just regarded Cerias wall as it grew thicker and thicker. Then he sighed, lifted one arm, and made a fist.


    A terrible foreboding crossed Cerias mind. And her [Dangersense] went off. As well as a certain memory. She watched as Grimalkin took a single stride forwards and raised a fist. Time slowed, and Ceria saw the fist plunge towards her. Exactly likeshe looked left and saw Pisces eyes go round. Grimalkin reached out


    And he <em>punched</em> straight through the four-foot thick wall. The thick ice <em>exploded</em> outwards and Grimalkins fist knocked Yvlon off her feet down the hill. With the same motion he flicked his wrist and swatted Ceria off her feet. The <em>explosion </em>of ice made Ksmvr shield himself from therger chunks with his Forceshield. He lowered, it, ready to attackand then looked around and realized he was thest person on his feet.


    Ksmvr looked to one side at Pisces. The [Necromancer] was doubled over. A piece of ice half the size of his torso had hit him in the groin. The Antinium looked up as Grimalkin withdrew his fist and looked down at him through the gaping hole in the ice wall.


    The [Sinew Magus] walked through the hole in the wall and looked down at Ksmvr as Yvlon, swearing, and shouting, finally <em>crashed</em> down at the bottom on the hill and Ceria, unconscious, rolled on top of her. Grimalkin looked down at Ksmvr. The Antinium stared up at him and regarded his shortsword.


    Ksmvr considered his options and then slowly raised his free hand.


    Um. Is this war?