Interlude Chocte Alchemy


    Erin Solstice stood over a sack of recently fermented, drycocoa beans. The very essence of the stuff that would be chocte. She spoke to her audience.


    Theres a saying about chocte. Chocte waits for no one. Except when it does. Because its sort of a pain to make, yknow?


    There was a pause. Palt shuffled his hooves.


    Im going to say youre lying, Miss Erin.


    Hey. I said theres a saying. I said it. And Im mostly right, arent I?


    The Centaur opened his mouth. Even for someone versed in Wistram politics and the Ullsinoi factions tendency towards creative madness, that was a lot to parse. He looked at Lyte.


    Shes being dramatic. Or what she thinks is dramatic. Let her have this moment.


    The [Princess] whispered. Palt nodded. Erin red at them.


    Look at it. <em>Look at it!</em> It looks like cocoa beans!


    Lyte and Palt stared at the sack that had just arrived after three days of fermentation. It was filled with dark, fat beans. Lyte nodded slowly.


    Yes. Those are beans. They dont look like when we pulled them out of the fruits, thats for sure.


    Erin nodded proudly.


    Were a step closer to <em>chocte. </em>Actually, just so you know, Im not a huge fan of chocte. I like it dark, but hey, thats because my parents do. But choctes okay. I mean, Im not into alcohol or coffee either.


    The [Princess] and [Illusionist] stared askance at Erin.


    Youve been talking about chocte nonstop for thest <em>three days</em>, Erin! Every time someone asks you to do something you dont want, you say chocte until they leave!


    Well, yeah. Because it works.


    Erin smiled faintly. Lyte threw up her hands.


    It should have been pointed out before now that Erin, for all her sterling qualities in forgiveness, trust in the essential goodness and soul of people, and her ability to y chess and bring people togetherwas not always easy to work with. As Lyte would happily tell anyone who asked. In detail. But thenno one was. Lyte was bossy, thought Gnolls were overweight, and had a real avarice for gold. Like most Drakes, actually.


    I mean, choctes okay. And I really want to use it in cakes and stuff. Vani cake is a crime. Itll be great to share it with Relc, the AntiniumRelcand see their faces. Okay, so whats the next step?


    Erin rubbed her hands together. Indeed, chocte to her was more about seeing people eat it. Lyte consulted the recipe Lasica had written up for her.


    We need to dry it. Forooh. Youre not going to like this. It says for about a week or more.


    The [Innkeeper]s face fell.


    What? No.


    Yup. Theyre way too wet. See?


    Lyte prodded some of the beans in the sack. They were indeed unduly moist. Erin threw up her hands.


    <em>I hate chocte!</em>


    If youll allow me, I think I can deal with that.


    Palt interrupted hurriedly. The Centaur had volunteered to help with the chocte making. Just the other day hed been making more Balerosian dishes. He really was cooking his way into Erin and Lytes good graces. Now, he trotted around the sack of beans.


    Ill handle drying. You dont need to wait a week; I can use magic. Ive done this before with other products.


    Really?


    Erin and Lyte looked at Palt. He smugly put a cigarette-sized puffer in his mouth.


    Oh yes. Dreamleafs just as bad with that. Drying spells and light spells do the trick if you know enough of them. [Light] isnt powerful enough, but if youll give me some room and help me spread the beans out, Ill draw a little containment circle and dry them. It wont take more than an hour, tops.


    He flicked a finger and a bit of me shot from his fingertipsand missed the cigarette as Erin snatched it out of his mouth.


    No smoking. It probably ruins the vor.


    Palt blew out his cheeks. But he gave up and switched to his vapor-less puffers. Erin and Lyte found a table in themon room and dumped the beans onto it. Palt produced a piece of chalkit lookedced with some kind of clear materind drew azy ring around the beans as they wereid out.


    Lyte frowned at how many beans there were. Not a bad quantity, but Erin had only been able to harvest one tree.


    Were already spending a bit for this chocte, Erin. Itdoesnt look like much.


    Wellits a lot of beans. Chocte isnt something you eat in quantity, Lyte.


    Really? From the way you talked about it, it sounded like you put it in <em>everything.</em>


    No! Its like sugar, or cookies!


    Erin, is everything you know how to make bad for you? Hamburgers, your fries, which you submerge in oil, mayonnaise, milkshakes, cake


    Erin Solstice looked around. She leaned over and whispered to Palt and Lyte.


    Hey! My country back on Earth has <em>tons</em> of sweet stuff! Its not my fault that I dont know how to do other things! I never cooked before I came here! A lot of foods are premade, yknow. Frozen, or preserved. Sort of like magic, but less nice. Also, you can order pizzas. But youll get fat if you do that.


    She leaned back over. Palt and Lyte gave each other looks. Erin smiled.


    Its great I can tell people that.


    Well, I never knew how to cook either. So I guess thats fair.


    Hm. Well, I like to cook.


    Palt trotted around the cocoa beans on the table, flicking his wand at them. Erin saw a shimmering ball of light coalesce. It was <em>bright</em>until Palt did something and the light angled downwards, bathing the table in a harsh glow. At the same time, Erin saw him point and murmur.


    And there we go.


    Wait, is it working?


    Palt nodded as Erin craned her neck. She didnt see much besides the light pouring down. The Centaur pointed at the table.


    Put your hand in there. Dont worry, its not dangerous.


    Erin put her hand over the crude chalk outline Palt had drawn. Instantly, she felt her hand <em>drying</em> up. The outeryer of her skin felt like it was cracking and losing moisture in real time. She yanked her hand free.


    Whoa! Thats powerful!


    Well, you tend to learn for


    Dreamleaf.


    Erin and Lyte chorused. Lyte put her hand in there and eximed.


    That is powerful. You know, there are um, scenarios where I could see using this spell to harass other people. OR rather, I know of them.


    Palt grinned.


    Oh, youve heard of dramas between [Ladies] and nobility as well? Yes indeed, drying apetitors skin the night before a ball and whatnot. Hrious. Unless you kill them by ident.


    Yes.


    The [Princess] coughed. Erin was fairly impressed that Palt didnt seem to need to actively maintain the spell. The [Illusionist] just shrugged.


    Letting a spell work in a confined boundary like this isnt simpleunless youve been taught the theory. Then its simple. Its the kind of thing your friends from Wistram would have learned in oh, year five or so. Ill keep an eye on the beans.


    Erin nodded. She wandered off as Lyte managed the inn. It had been three days since her outing with Lasica to get the beans fermented. In that time, Erin had only had a few interesting incidents.


    A Rock Crab trying to eat the Workers building the second floor, Ekirra learning bad words, oh, and another yground incident. Erin had been banned from Liscors ygrounds after shed once rallied the children in a day-long siege against the adults.


    This time, it had been Mrsha and her two little friends whod attacked anyone within throwing range with their balls. An entire army of Gnoll children pelting adults with leather balls was a sight Erin wished she could have seen.


    Normal incidents. And as it so happened, Ekirra and Visma wereing again today. Erin greeted Vismas older brother, who was once again on child-escort duty.


    Hey! UmFeiss, right?


    The young Drake boy stared up at the infamous Human. He nodded as Visma hid behind him and Ekirra stared up at Erin. She smiled at them.


    You were here just the other day. Hi Ekirra, hi Visma. Would you like some lemonade?


    Lemonade was a cool thing for kids. Erin had drunk it and thus she associated that with summer and outdoors. Ekirras ears perked up. Visma appeared.


    Hello. Ekirra learned a bad word. His mom got mad when he said it.


    Erins face fell a bit. Ekirra and Visma were Mrshas best friends. New friends, but they were so close. Erin was trying to make these ydates a regr thing. And getting on the parents good sides helped.


    The damn incident had been a bad one. And frankly, getting any parents to let their kidse to the inn had been a hurdle and a half. The inn had a reputation. But the Garden of Sanctuary, along with some testimonials from Krshia, Elirr, and Selys, had really helped. Feiss left Erin with the two kids after a cup of lemonade himself. No one turned down Erins free food, even if Lyte said it was unhealthy.


    Mrsha!


    The little Gnoll had been on the roof. She raced down, having smelled her two friends. Bird followed, with a bow. Erin stared at it and the Worker lifted his arms innocently.


    I was letting Mrsha shoot the bow.


    What?


    It was very safe. She nearly hit a bird.


    Erin paused for a second as she considered all the ways Mrsha could hurt herself and then weighed Birds actions on a beratement scale. Eventually, she decided it was probably safe. Bird <em>was</em> an expert at shooting things. And he had really gotten out of hisshell, or rather, tower, since hed been banned from killing birds.


    Heck, he was practically going on little trips with Numbtongue and sometimes Octavia every day. Erin suspected he was also hoping theyd be attacked by Wyverns or something, but she appreciated that side of Bird.


    Well, just so long as Mrshas very safe.


    She is very safe. I did not even let her climb out onto the roof.


    Mrsha gave Erin a wide-eyed, innocent look as Erin turned to look at her. She tugged at Visma and Ekirras arms and they ran over to the door.


    Just remember, you stay inside the inn and garden! <em>And if I catch you trying to use it to sneak into the kitchen</em>


    Erins injunction sent all three children fleeing, giggling. Erin crossed her arms and closed her eyes. It had been quiet. Pleasantly so, ofte. She hadnt seen Pawn or the other Antinium yet, and she was beginning to be a bitworried about them. Or rather, Klbkch. Erin needed to have a chat, when she figured out what they were going to chat about.


    But Erin hadnt been inactive either. She had yet to really dive into experimenting with her fireit was all about the Sages Grass field and her magical garden at the moment. Already, part of the meadow had been uprooted and all the lovely flowers rented so Want could nt his grass.


    And with Ekirra and Visma popping in, and after the [Pirate] had so effectively beaten Erins aura with a drink to the face, shed beenpracticing.


    Now, Erin closed her eyes. She concentrated, spreading out an awareness she handt known she had. If people had six senses, this was like a seventh sense that sort of felt like the sixth. Erin hadnt even known she could feel with her inn-sense until recently.


    Hm. Garden. Pond.


    Erin opened her eyes. She headed towards a wall and the door to the garden appeared.


    <em>Hey! </em>Remember, towels, you three! Rolling in the grass doesnt count and it makes you dirty! Towels before youe into the inn, okay?


    Mrsha, Visma, and Ekirra <em>jumped</em> as Erin appeared in the doorway. She smiled, pleased with herself. They nodded obediently as Mrsha did a breaststroke through the water and grabbed Ekirras tail. Apista buzzed around the garden as Erin closed the door.


    It must be a relief, having that garden. When I was a colt, Id run off and my parents would find me miles from our vige.


    Paltmented as Erin wandered over. She looked at him.


    I cant imagine that. I was a kid and I used to get in trouble for wandering off while looking at chess notations. Uhthats sort of normal. The wandering off part. What are Centaur kids like?


    The [Illusionist] grinned.


    Prone to running about a lot. And we get spooked easily. Centaurs are actually fairly nervous as a people. We do <em>not</em> like loud noises, so thunderstorms have us up all night.


    <em>Really?</em> Well, Humansuhuh.we have a thing about eating sugar.


    So does most of the world.


    Erin paused.


    Welike sitting around and eating?


    Many a time Ive done that.


    You know, Humans are really unique. Because we have this unique feature ofgossiping about people behind their backs.


    Having lived around the Lizardfolk, I cannot <em>imagine</em> what thats like.


    Palt grinned as Erin red at him.


    Dont worry. Humans are unique. Well, your people have inbred with a lot of species. Youre like themon y of a lot of people. Centaurs have Human torsos, after all. Or as my people would put it, Humans have odd legs and Centaur torsos.


    The young woman had to smile at that.


    Sounds familiar. Sowhat do Humans have?


    An obsession with climbing things. You people see a mountain and you climb it. Centaurs, Lizardfolk, Duhanswe leave it alone.


    Huh. But you never wonder?


    No.


    -


    After about an hour, the beans were done drying. It surprised Erin, but Palts spell was powerful and air-drying was, well, air-drying. Palt assured Erin his little trick could dry wet clothing, and Erin knew from experience how long a pile of wet clothing could take.


    She prodded the beans in the tray, pulling a few out with tongs.


    I think theyre dry! Yup! Thats dry! Know it anywhere. Lyte, weve got dry beans! Whats next?


    The [Princess] indicated the recipe lying next to the table. Erin sighed. She had to read it herself? She checked the neat Drake script and frowned.


    Huh. Roasting em. Like coffee! Which I assume you roast. I mean, thats all I hear about it.


    Whats coffee?


    Something not in my garden. But its another bean. Wakes you up. I never really saw the point. Ill do a tea if I need to.


    Hm. You know, the Elusive Lot


    Youre already getting chocte, buddy. Dont pretend that youre not memorizing this.


    Palt jumped and to Erins gratification, blushed. She smiled. Old Erin wasnt <em>that</em> oblivious! Or that old!


    Well, I can do the roasting too. How hot should I make them? I even have the boundary set up


    The Centaur cleared his throat. Erin shrugged.


    Hot as an oven? But not <em>super</em> hot. Lets see what happens.


    Palt did just that. Erin walked off to say hi to Relc, whode in with his daughter on their weekly father-daughter get-togethers.


    Hi, Relc. Whats happening? Hi, Embria.


    Miss Solstice.


    Hey Erin. I just got paid, and I heard you have something to eat. Will it be done by tonight? AlsoI got two new puzzles from the [Traders] so this weeks <em>great.</em> See? See?


    Relc was excitedly showing Erin alock. Well, it looked like a lock, but apparently you could take it apart and put it back together without picking the lock. As she fiddled with it and Relc gave her hints, Embria turned to her father.


    The 4^th is getting restless, you know. We havent gotten word were going back to the rest of the army. We might stay here on semi-permanent duty.


    Her face said she was torn on the issue. Relc paused as he reached for his drink of blue fruit juice.


    Hey, if thats what High Command says, the [Captains] and [Lieutenants] can tell the regr idiots to shut up. No use yanking your tail. Andwell, youre not <em>fighting</em>, but this is Liscor. Another group of Raskghar emerge, or the Crelersthey saw action.


    His words were unusually careful. The [Innkeeper] nced up as Embria nodded. Her shoulders firmed.


    Right, right. Obviously. Those idiots areining when we nearly went up against an Adult Creler.


    Not to mention the dungeon. Heck, I bet the Council will start ordering yourpany to kill threats, like extra Rock Crabs or something.


    You think so?


    Relc shrugged as Erin blew on the lock and shook it.


    Thats right. I mean, maybe if you offer? Back when I was in 4^th, we sometimes did that when we were on guard duty. y a monster here and there. But our [Wing Commander], old Splinterscale, had to offer.


    Right. Well, the Council hasnt offered, but maybe they havent considered it. Only a matter of time.


    Wing Commander Embrias eyes flickered. She nodded at her father. And Erin gave Relc an approving look. She turned back to the lock. What was this new, helpful Relc? It was almost like he was listening to her advice when he sometimes came in to chat about issues, Embria being one of them.


    Hey, Relc. How do you solve this thing? Give me a first step.


    Maybe theres something on the lock you can use, Erin. Likea long pointy thing?


    Erin had just figured out there was a camouged pin in the lock and was trying to get it out when Palt called her back. She waved at Relc and Embria, and trotted over.


    I think were nearly done. Take a sniff.


    The Centaur waved at the beans. Erin leaned forwards.


    <em>Ooh!</em>


    They had begun to smell <em>nice</em>. And as Palt carefully picked out a bean and offered it to her with a warning that it was hot, Erin inhaled something like<em>chocte</em>. Then she saw one of the beans jump a bit.


    Oh! Theyre beginning to crack! Lasica said thats nearly done!


    Excitedly, Erin waved at Lyte. The [Princess] came over and sniffed approvingly. She checked the listand Erin groaned again at the look at her face.


    What <em>now?</em>


    Remember those [Millers] that Lasica introduced us to? Ill have them winnow the beans now. The husks are apparently good for something, but the insidethe nibs are what we want.


    <em>Aw!</em>


    Erin red. Lyte calmly helped Palt push the beans back into a sack. Then she called for Ishkr.


    Theyll probably be done within an hour or two. They have a Skill. But well process the nibs ourselves since thats apparently when you add sugar. Or <em>nali-</em>sticks.


    Ooh! I saw some in the garden! You do that! Ill find them!


    Erin ran into the garden. Mrsha, Ekirra, and Visma all started as they saw Erin appear. They had been creeping up the hill towards a [Farmer] with tattoos who was carefully renting glowing, crimson Sages Grass into the ready earth.


    <em>Hey, Solstice! Can you keep your kids off my back? They keep bothering me!</em>


    Want hollered at Erin. She paused.


    Bothering how?


    Pelting me with mud balls, stealing my cropsthe next time one of them does it, Ill tan their backsides!


    Erin pointed at the kids.


    He means it. Also, Want, if you smack their bottoms, Ill smack you!


    The [Pirate] gave her a grin. Then he grunted.


    Viceria here yet?


    She said shes selling stuff to a guest.


    Must be some [Trader] stopping by. Wont they be surprised? Prices on Sages Grass just went up since we have a sellers market.


    The [Farmer] had a [Pirate]s smile. Erin sighed.


    Mrsha! Im going to find those <em>nali-sticks!</em> Wannae? Theyre really sweet!


    Erin had tried <em>nali</em>-sticks before. Then, they had been very thin pieces of what she assumed sugarcane looked like on the inside. Of course, shed seen sugarcane toobamboo-like sticks. But in her jungle biome, the nali-sticks were actually really hard to find.


    Darn! I thought theyd be obvious. Hey, you three find them?


    No.


    Visma called out and Mrsha shook her head. Ekirra sniffed around.


    Someone pooed here.


    Erin sighed.


    Yeah. It sucks. You have a garden and someone poos in it, yknow? Hey? Was it <em>you?</em>


    She pointed at Ekirra. The young Gnoll looked up, rmed. Then he saw Erins expression of mock fury and giggled.


    No! Not me! UhVisma did it!


    Liar!


    The Drake girl shrieked. Erin whirled.


    Aha! Punishment for the pooers! Get over here! No, wait, was it <em>you</em>, Mrsha?


    She chased the kids around, yelling scatological questions as they giggled and fled. Erin was smiling and panting after a few minutes, but the kids were very pleased. She gave up on looking for the <em>nali-</em>sticksand just then saw the thin, brown tube growing in the soil.


    It was rather like a stick, onlywhen you pulled it out, you noticed the brown casing was just an exterior, hiding a terribly sweet, <em>sweet</em>, white interior.


    <em>Woo!</em> Sugar! No, wait. This is super sweet!


    Erin tasted the fresh <em>nali-</em>stick and her mouth nearly went numb with that much sweet. In fact, it was so scarily sweet she was afraid you could get addicted to it. She only let the kids have a little piece before she harvested a few and headed back into the inn.


    The kids could y. Erin sat at a table with Relc, Embria, and Palt, sampling the sweet <em>nali </em>and specting how best to use it. Relc was happy enough to eat a fresh <em>nali</em>-stick raw, but ording to Palt, they <em>were</em> addictive.


    And you say smokings bad. There are people who cant live without a <em>nali-</em>stick a day. Fresh ones are far sweeter than dry, by the way.


    I can see why. This stuff is <em>great.</em>


    Relc was subtly vibrating. Embrias eyes widened as she sampled hers.


    This is <em>good.</em> Say, Miss Erin, you wouldnt mind if I took the rest of this back to share at the barracks? A pity they only grow in Baleros; I could see using these in our field rations.


    Hey, take these. Ive got more growing there and I can always nt more.


    Erin smiled and offered Embria eight. The Wing Commander nodded a bit stiffly at Erin, but managed a smile.


    See? I told youing here has perks.


    Relc grinned at her. Palt nodded as he puffed away.


    Funny you thought of them forbat, Wing Commander. [Soldiers] like using them for the rush they give you.


    Really?


    Embria looked pleased. Palt was good at being part of the table. He nodded and began telling everyone about Balerosian armies and fighting. And Erin experienced her first pleasant conversation with Embria. That was the first time, right?


    -


    The processed cocoa beans arrived atst. Erin threw up her hands and danced around as she saw the sack of shells, and the glorious little nibs that would be chocte. Then she paused.


    Uh oh. Thats not a lot.


    Indeed, cocoa beans were the inner part of the cacao fruit, and they shrunk during fermentation. And dryingand the nibs themselves were umsmall. The dried beans were mostly shell.


    Still, there was a decentlyrge sack Ishkr had brought back and Erin was all-in so far. Lyte was prepared too. She had a stone bowl and a new device shed bought for this very asion.


    A stone grinder from Pass. See? You put the nibs in the bowl and you just rotate this handle and the stone wheel spins.


    Oh hey, thats like a big grinder [Alchemists] use. I was thinking of buying one. Mind if I borrow it from time to time?


    Octavia hade out of her room atst. The [Alchemist] had been going mining with Numbtongue from time to time, but shed also been supervising her new shop. But mainly, she was justzing about; Erin gathered it was a new experience for Octavia. She certainly ate a lot whenever it was time for food. Apparently she sometimes missed breakfast, lunch, and dinner.


    You can buy your own. Im not having bugs in <em>my</em> grinder.


    Lyte stared at Octavia. The [Alchemist] opened her mouth, and nodded.


    Right. Er, I do mulch roaches and stuff. Sohows this chocte being made?


    Thest step of chocte was simple. And hard. What you did with the little nibs youd acquired after all that work wasgrind them up. Grind them up, add some sugar, cinnamon, other stuff to give chocte that taste and you had chocte.


    But even this single process out of all the steps wasbor-intensive. Erin and Lyte began rotating the stone grinder, pulverizing the little nibs in the bowl. They had a wooden handle they took turns rotatingbut it was tiring and they soon began calling in the staff to help.


    Wow, this is hard work! And we paid for fermentation, winnowing, and wed have had to have dried it and roasted it without Palt.


    Happy to help.


    The Centaur was idly pointing at the wheel and making it spin as Ishkr took a break. Erin stared at him.


    Can you do that all the time? Or make a spell?


    Palt pursed his lips.


    Give me a tables worth of space for a magical diagram and I could probably make it work. Although youd have to have a trigger mechanism to make it stop spinning if its drawing in ambient mana. And if you moved the bowl at all, it would break my circuit. Now, an [Enchanter] could reduce the diagram down, make it smoother


    Or I could pay Ishkr to grind it. Gotcha.


    Palt nodded. Erin watched as the nibs began to bechocte.


    First it was a mash, a semi-solid pulp of the ground mixture. But it was already chocte, just rough, not yet purely one thing<em>.</em> But with each run through the grinderand it was a slow processthe chocte kept getting more and more smooth as it blended.


    Look! Its getting liquidy! Chocte! We have <em>chocte!</em>


    Erin danced about excitedly. Lyte smiled. She took a bit of chocte from the edge of the bowl and tasted it. She made a face.


    Thats fairly bitter.


    Well, yeah, its dark. We need to add sugar. Keep grinding, Ishkr! Switch out with someone else in uh, ten minutes?


    The three [Cooks], that was to say, Erin, Lyte, and Palt, began adding in sugar and the other ingredients Erin had been given. Butter and milk powder too! They werent making a dark chocte, even if Erin liked it more than milk chocte. Also, Erin realized it was definitely necessary to thicken the chocte they had. Because it was a lot of work to make and darn it, Erin wanted as much for her money as possible!


    And with effort, and time, the liquid chocte began to develop the proper taste. Erin was just about to pour it into some molds to be frozen via Palt when she heard a disturbance.


    Not everything had gone smoothly as the chocte. Visma appeared in the garden. She stomped through with tears in her eyes and shouted.


    I hate Mrsha!


    What? What happened? Oh no! You have a bloodynostril!


    Visma was indeed bleeding a bit. She cried as Erin saw Mrsha, tail and ears lowered, appear in the doorway, holding Apista. It took a few minutes to get the story out of the neutral partyEkirra, but the event was simple. Erin summed it up.


    She pulled Apistas wings, so Mrsha hit her. Which was bad, even if Apista was in pain, Mrsha!


    She looked sternly at Mrsha. The Gnoll child turned away. Visma refused to look at Mrsha. Erin modted her tone.


    But Visma, Apista is also a living thing. And she gets hurt too. Violence is not the answer


    Sometimes its the answer. I mean, lets be fair.


    Relc waved from his corner. Erin red at the unwanted dad-parenting, especially since Embria was nodding. She turned back to Mrsha.


    Violence is okay against <em>Crelers.</em> But youre friends, right?


    And friends sometimes hurt each other. But they should say sorry. And youre sorry, right Mrsha?


    Lyte gave Mrsha a cuddle. The Gnoll hugged her, and then went over to Visma. The Drake refused to look at her.


    Go away. I hate you.


    It was a little fight. Butit mattered. Erin and Lyte watched anxiously as Mrsha recoiled. She tried to go around and sign her apology to Visma, but the little Drake kept turning around. Ekirra kept watching them, pacing around them anxiously. But Visma refused to ept the apology.


    In the end, Mrsha curled up into a ball of misery. Only then did Visma look at her. She saw how sad Mrsha was and she began to cry. Mrsha looked up, saw Visma crying, and started crying as well.


    Both of them started crying. And Ekirra joined in because his two friends were upset. Erin hugged them all.


    No punching each other! And we have chocte! Okay? Lets say sorry and make up.


    <em>Sorry.</em>


    Sorry.


    Visma and Mrsha looked at each other. Mrsha nuzzled Vismas face and the Drake girl copied the gesture. Erin quickly brought down some of the sh-frozen chocte.


    It wasnt as<em>perfect</em> as a chocte bar from her world. And Erin couldnt make those fancy patterns in the chocte; shed just used a quick mold in the shape of a bar. But she broke it into three little pieces now. Visma stared at her chocte and Ekirra and Mrsha sniffed theirs.


    And its okay for Gnolls?


    Lyte looked anxious. Erin had told her chocte was bad for dogs, and the [Princess] had objected to giving it to Mrsha on that ground. But Erin was calm.


    Rufelt told me Gnolls have no problem. He eats it, and so does Lasica. Its <em>fine</em>, Lyte. Lasicas a [Cook],


    The [Princess] nodded, a bit relieved. Mrsha was the first to bite into her chocte, with Visma. Ekirra was more cautious; Erin suspected <em>he</em> thought it was poo after their silly game.


    Vismas eyes went wide as she tasted her first bite of chocte. It was properly sweet; not overpoweringly so since the point of this chocte was to be chocte first, sugar second, but it was a <em>taste</em>. Like ice cream for the first time. The Drake girl began to gobble her small bite.


    Careful! Its a treat! Eat it slow! Mrsha, what do you think?


    The little Gnoll was chewing her bite with her eyes closed. She smiled up at Erin and Lyteand then her face grew confused. Mrsha paused, and then began coughing in the throat.


    She froze. So did Erin and Lyte.


    Mrsha? Whats wrong? If its bad, spit it out.


    The little Gnoll clutched at her throat. Erin looked at Lyte.


    Mrsha, honey, spit it out


    The Gnoll began to shake. Then, all of a sudden, and Lyte tried to pry her mouth open, her eyes went wide. She fell onto her back and rolled over.


    <em>She wasnt breathing.</em>


    <em>Octavia!</em> Get over here!


    Erin shouted. Octavia came running as Relc and Embria shot to their feet. The [Princess] yanked open Mrshas mouth, shouting for a potion. Erin spun, desperately. Rufelt had <em>said</em>were there antihistamines in this world? Healing potions? Something


    As the entire inn converged on Mrsha, the Gnolls open eyes swiveled around. She paused, and then waved all four paws urgently. She sat up.


    <em>Kidding! Joke!</em>


    She signed worriedly. Erin turned around. Lyte fell back, the color returning to her face.


    A prank?


    Palt had knocked over a trio of chairs. He stared at Mrsha. Erins jaw dropped. Mrsha looked around worriedly. She hadnt expected the adults reaction.


    <em>Dont do that!</em> You scared us so much!


    Lyte was so furious she was shouting and hugging Mrsha. The Gnoll child nearly cried again as she saw how worried everyone had been. Butnot everyone was angry.


    Relc wasughing his tail off. So was Palt, and Want, whode running at the shouting. <em>They</em> had a twisted sense of humor.


    The [Innkeeper] herself was well and truly shaken. Rufelt had indeed told her that chocte was fine for Gnolls; they were <em>not</em> dogs and could process it. In theory they might get sicker than Humans if they ate it like, for breakfast and lunch in quantities, but everyone did.


    Mrshas the best. Embria used to pull stuff like that all the time. Kids do it. Stop scolding her, Lyte!


    The Senior Guardsman advised Lyte as she scolded Mrsha about bad pranks. Want was grinning too. The older adults began reminiscing about their childrens escapades. Embria looked like she wanted to leave.


    It was sorta funny. But dont scare us, Mrsha!


    Erin conceded as she hugged Mrsha. Lyte scowled at her.


    It wasnt funny at all!


    Erins lips quirked. Mrsha was much chastised, but Erin had to admitit had worked.


    Sorta funny. I did the same kind of thing when I was a kid. Likehiding in a closet all day. Um, my parents thought I was kidnapped. They called the poliI mean, the Watch.


    She scratched the back of her head, embarrassed. Now <em>she</em> knew what that felt like. Mrsha brightened up as Relc chortled. Lyte pulled both Mrsha and Erin over and hissed at them.


    <em>I</em> ran away from home. Dont talk to me about pranks.


    Erin blinked at her. Mrsha looked up. Oh. Right. They stared at Lyte. When it came to biggest child renegades, there was one clear victor.


    A sideways look at Palt confirmed he was upied, but Erin sidled into the Garden with Lyte, pretending she was having an adult-talk for a second. Then she turned to Lyte.


    Dont they miss you, Lyte? Shouldnt you let your parents know youre okay? I mean, if we were this worried about Mrsha


    It was a thought Erin had never had before now. Shed been so busy on everything else, she sometimes forgot about stuff like Lyte running away. It was <em>not</em> a priority when people were in danger or big events were taking ce. But now, Erin wondered.


    Lyte only shrugged slowly. She didnt have a fond expression on her face. Or even a terribly guilty one. Justmncholy.


    Frankly? Cnfer can live without me or half of its [Princesses]. Were just assets. I wouldnt be surprised if my family has one of my doubles standing in for me all the time. And I dont think my father cares beyond that. Or my mother, really.


    Erins heart sank. Mrsha looked up at Lyte and gave her a hug. The [Princess] smiled.


    Thanks, Mrsha. My sisters are better. Well, some of them. But sending a [Message] would just be trouble, believe me, Erin.


    So they dont even know youre gone? Wait, you have a body double? Like, a literal clone?


    Erin was shocked. Lyte raised her eyebrows.


    Not a [Clone Person] spell. How do you know aboutoh, one of your Earth terms. Anyways, why wouldnt royalty have a body double, Erin? Public events, even receptions at state events, and especially security.


    The young woman from Michigan opened and closed her mouth. <em>She</em> had never been to a state event, unless you counted like, attending a New Years Eve celebration or something.


    Point taken. Umlets go back inside the inn. Sodoes this double look <em>exactly </em>like you, Lyte?


    Shes got the ss, Erin. If she didnt look like me, whats the point?


    But how much like


    -


    After the chocte scare, Erin and Lyte went back to analyzing the fruits or rather, chocte of theirbor. There wereproblems, even as Erin poured the rest of the chocte out for useter.


    Not just that it wasnt perfect; that was fine. Chocte was chocte and Erin wasnt going to sell it in bar form. Actually, that was also the problem.


    There really isnt a lot, Erin.


    For how much work theyd put in, and so many cacao pods, it was true that the amount of actual chocte harvested was disappointingly low. Erin hesitated. She felt guilty as she turned to Lyte, trying to put a good face on it.


    Yeah. Iguess we need more trees, huh? We only had one. Butwe can use this. Not for chocte pieces, but well make a cake. And cookies! Chocte chip cookies, chocte milk


    The [Princess] nodded, flipping out a piece of paper to do some sums on.


    I suppose we can up the prices and attract people tonight. But well have to charge a bit more for them, even more than the sugary foods. I dont doubt well sell out; Id love to see anyone copy the recipes without chocte. But


    They werent going to earn much of a return on it, even with higher prices. Erin bit her lip.


    Sorry, Lyte. I thought wed get more out of it. And I didnt realize how hard it was to make.


    The [Princess] raised her brows and shook her head.


    Dont worry about that, Erin. We figured out the process and thats what matters. And this <em>is</em> worth the effortso long as were not doing it. And this will pull in arger crowd tonight.


    Erin smiled and nodded, relieved. Lyte went on, frowning at the chocte theyd made.


    The expenses are worth it, if we have arge enough supply to do it in bulk. We should have kept some of the seeds so we could growwell, a dozen trees at least. Mrsha can help. Itll just take a while.


    Erin licked her fingers and agreed. The rest of her guests were having little bites of chocte, but the majority of it was now in solid form, ready to be stored.


    Lets save the rest. Well have this much for chocte milkwe can make at least a few gallons. And this much for the cakefour of them? Its <em>strong</em>, so we dont need much. Chocte cookies will take this muchand Ill need this much. Im gonna cut them up into pieces. Can I get a bag, Lyte? With a ribbon or something?


    The [Princess] frowned. All of Erins other uses for the chocte were fine, but she narrowed her eyes as Erin looked around for a suitable container for a good amount of chocte shed chopped upenough to fill a hand-sized bag to the brim.


    Whore you giving it to? The Halfseekers? Relc? The Antinium? They can pay for it, Erin.


    Nope. Im not giving it to any of them. Its a bribe.


    Lyte paused. Her expression cleared and she pointed.


    Oh, well then. Here you are. Let me know if you need more.


    Erin Solstice paused as she took the bag. Sometimes she wondered about Lytes values and how she was teaching Mrsha about the world. But thenMrshas other teachers included Bird, and Numbtongue. Erin was the sane, guiding influence.


    It was hard being the responsible parent, sometimes.


    -


    <em>Halt! Youre not authorized toe through at this time! Identify yourself!</em>


    Hey! I own this door! Dont tell me I cante through! You know who I am!


    <em>Hands in the air! Dont move! Whats in that bag?</em>


    Chocte! Hey! Hey, thats a brthats a gift! Its food! Not poo! Eat one, go on! Dont give me that look! And dont you dare throw me in jail! Ive been there! It sucks!


    The checkpoint that now held the door from Pass to Liscor had gotten a lot harder to bluster through these days. There was no Guardsman Kel that Erin could walk past. Instead, there was a gate, [Guards] who got <em>really</em> mad if you came through unannounced, and other levels of security.


    Even so, Erin got through with her new magic catchphrase.


    Chocte. You take. Chocte. Chocte.


    Each time a [Guard] protested, she reminded them they knew who she was, she wasnt bringing Bird in the little sack of treats, and she gave them a bit of chocte and told them she was selling it at the inn tonight.


    It worked. Erin fought her way out of the checkpoint and realized it was still on the eighth floor. Only, it was located closer to the Watch House on the floor, and Pass had repurposed a building to act as the new containment for the inn.


    Huh. Wow. They cleaned this ce up.


    Erin stared about the city. It was indeed restored to how she remembered it, before the Wyvern attack. She looked around. People were walking aboutit seemed like Pass had gotten back to normal.


    Well, aside from that veryrge poster tacked onto a wall. Erin stared at it. Noass and Sir Relz grinned down at the pedestrians.


    <em>Presenting Noass and Sir Relz! Pass [Commentators]! Have an issue worthy of </em>worldwide<em> discussion? Write in now! Now epting applications for assistant positions and other staffing opportunities! Inquire on the 3^rd Floor!</em>


    Noass.


    Erin chuckled to herself. But the poster made her vaguely uneasy for various reasons. What she objected to was how proud people seemed to be of it, and the two [Commentators]. Erin still remembered themmentating over the moth attack.


    But she wasnt here to bribe them. No, Erin had loftier goals. So she stopped the first person she saw on the street, a Drake.


    Excuse me, can you tell me where I can find an [Alchemist]? Saliss of Lights?


    The Drake gave Erin a tired look, the kind of look anyone in a big city gave to the tourist who <em>had</em> to ask you a question they were too stupid not to know the obvious answer to.


    9^th Floor, Miss Human. Wait. Did you say Saliss of Lights? What do you want with <em>him? </em>If its a potion you want, youre out of luck. He doesnt sell directly. And hes insane. A good adventurer, but insane. Era credit to the city, but totally mad.


    It seemed Saliss hadnt lost his goodwill from the battle with the Wyverns, although it was clearly a bit faded. Erin nodded, smiling.


    9^th? Sorry, I thought he had a house somewhere else. And I know he doesnt sell. But I need to find him.


    The Drake rified himself.


    Well, all the alchemist buildings are on the 9^th. He probably has a house lower. But the 9^th is the ce to ask.


    He paused as he stared at Erin. And then his eyes widened.


    Ancestors, its <em>you! </em>The Human with the Antinium!


    Who, me?


    The Drake stared. Some of the other pedestrians were staring at Erin and recognizing her as well.


    I saw you! You were in the scrying orband that Antinium, Bird the Hunterdo you know it? And Magus Grimalkin? Wait, you have an inn


    Erin looked around. A crowd was forming and this was <em>not</em> the moment for an Erin-scenario. She waved and shouted urgently.


    <em>Hi, everyone, the door to Liscor will soon be allowing more than two people a day! Visit The Wandering Inn! We have chocte tonight, if you can get there! Gotta run!</em>


    She made tracks for the nearest elevator. In it, the attendant gave her the same look. Erin panted.


    9^th Floor! And yes, Im that Human. Hi. Erin Solstice. Whats your name?


    Sikay.


    The attendant was a Garuda. Erin smiled.


    Hey. So, do you do this job all day?


    -


    Talking to people got you ces. Sometimes they thought you were flirting with them when you really wanted just to chat. But that was a guy thing, in Erins experience. And talking to people got you directions.


    Saliss shop on the 9^th Floor was a ratherrge building. Erin gathered that he <em>had</em> a private home and even a workshop on another floor, but this was where he had most of his most expensive ingredients. A rather <em>noxious</em>-smelling [Alchemist] had told her that Saliss would probably be there.


    The building wasrge, and, surprisingly, worn down. Erin stared up at it. For the best [Alchemist] in Pass, or a Named Adventurer, shed expected Saliss would have a fancyb. But this looked like a dump.


    An old dump. Something had blown out a window three times, in one case so hard that the brickwork had to be boarded up along with the window. The door looked cheap, and old, and the entire ce stank to Erin more of what she imagined some illicit drugb would look like.


    It was even in a poorer section of the 9^th, away from the high-end [Alchemists] with their fancy shops and ss windows and multicolored smokeing out of the chimneys. Erin hesitated, but she assumed the directions were good. So she walked up and knocked.


    No one replied. Erin knocked again after a beat, and then pounded on the door.


    Hello? <em>Saliss? Anyone home?</em>


    No reply. But Erin was sure the ce was upied. She could see some smokeing out of the chimney. She narrowed her eyes.


    And perhaps it was Relcs puzzle-solving skills that rubbed off on Erin. Because she noticed the tiny little bell hidden around the side of therge doorway. Literally, to the sideshe had to walk off the steps to see it. Erin eyed the little silver bell and gingerly rang it.


    <em>Im not interested!</em>


    A voice instantly bellowed back at Erin. It was quite, <em>quite</em> familiar. And disturbingly clear. Erin jumped. She hurried around to the main door.


    Hello?


    The door was decrepit. Old wood, king in cesheck, Erin even thought she could see through it into a dark interior in spots. It looked awful. But the angry voice kept speaking, as clear as if Saliss was right in front of her.


    Is this Xif? Go away! Im not sharing my me! If youre a [Merchant], Ill hit you. With a rock or something!


    It wasnting from the actual door itself. Erins eyes narrowed as she turned. She walked around to where shed found the bell again and stared.


    Down low against the dirty wall was a littleErin bent and scuffed at a patch of dirt. It revealed a shining opal, shimmering multiple colors. It swirled as Saliss voice projected from it.


    Hello? Hello? Darn, if its kids Ill melt their tails off. Wheres the seeing stone? Argh! No! Dont go out, little me! Happy me! Happy me!


    Erin heard some panicked crashing in the background. She narrowed her eyes.


    Saliss?


    What? <em>Hello?</em> Is that a familiar voice I hear?


    Um. Hi. Its me, Erin.


    Erin?


    The Human?


    Ah! The one with the me! Did Xif send you?


    No.


    Chaldion?


    No. Look, I just came by because


    <em>Say no more! Literally, dont! This sounds great! Ill be out in a second!</em>


    Erin heard more rapid movement, some <em>clinking</em> in the background, an oaththen running feet. She stared at the door to the house and looked around.


    There was even a bad garden, with some dried up bushes. The small walkway towards the main door had a gate, but it had been open when Erin had walked through. This really did look like a terrible ce. But that stone in the wall and concealed bell. Maybe


    The main door did not swing open. But the hidden, concealed section of <em>wall </em>did open. The grimy brickwork swung open and Saliss appeared, inches from Erin. The [Innkeeper] nearly jumped out of her boots.


    Aah!


    Oh, hey. Sorry. I thought someone told you about the bell. Its you! Come in,e in, before someone sees!


    Saliss grinned and spread his arms wide. He was, of course, naked. Erin stared at him, and then the fake door.


    But that


    Fake door. Fake house, really. The doors rigged. I dont remember with what, but it does something if you bust on through. And the rest of the house is spelled. People kept trying to break into the old ce and this is more fun than a fancy house. Its a <em>secretboratory.</em> Cool, right? Come on in!


    Erin Solstice paused. Her first instincts, in order, were to ask Saliss to put something on. <em>Not</em> to stare at his nudity. And third, to say that yes, a secretboratory was awesome. But she didnt. It disturbed her, mildly, that people keptparing her to Saliss. They were not alike. Not at all.


    For one thing, the Drake was a nudist. And Erin was not. He was also an [Alchemist] and hurried Erin into a rather <emfy</em>boratory. It even had a carpet, a firecea libraryErin realized this was more like a research room. The real ce where the alchemy happened was through an enchanted magic door.


    And that room was built like a testing area. Saliss had metal barricades, stands with ssware outbut very little. Erin saw cupboards made of steel, shining with what looked like various protective runes. One was open and she saw it was filled with any number of ingredients, ordered with neat little notes.


    But the rest were closed. And some lookedscorched. Others were dented, but the room itself was unnaturally clean and spartan. Erin gazed about.


    Whoa.


    Gets them every time. Can I get you a chair? Sorry, I dont have a chair in here. They tend to get destroyed. Well, everything does. Oop! My mixtures nearly ready! One second!


    Saliss dashed back to the few objects on a steel counter. Erin saw a glowing liquid swirling under a purple me


    Hey! Is that my fire?


    Yup! Happy fire! Dont go out! Dont go out! I just need a <em>bit </em>of heat!


    Saliss urgently prodded more tiny bits of charcoal into the purple me. It was bubbling the sk on a stand. Erin looked about as Saliss thrust open a cupboard.


    Wheres my Wyvern eyes? Where are they? I have <em>jars</em> of them now, and theres not oneaha! Gotcha!


    He yanked out a jar ofwell, preserved Wyvern eyes. Erin stared as Saliss mmed the cupboard shut.


    Wouldnt it be easier to have it all out in the open?


    You think that, but no!


    Saliss pointed at Erin as he pulled an eye out of the jar. He grabbed a pair of tweezers and before Erin could process what he was doing, ripped the irises <em>out</em>. Erin made a sound as Saliss repeated the process.


    Oops, sorry. Might want to look away. Its going to get gooey. I need a jar for the stuff. Can you open that cupboard


    Erin did. Saliss took the jar and poured the rest of the eyes into it. Then he began to mash the pupils up. Just the Wyvern pupils. He swiftly added it to the glowing sk. Rather than change colors, Erin saw the liquid <em>steam</em> and begin to reduce at an rming rate. Saliss cleaned the rest of the eyes up and returned to staring at the mixture. He was like a blur around Erin, never missing a beat even when juggling slippery eyes.


    Where was I? Oh yeah. Got to keep everything contained. When something explodes or turns into poison gasand it doesanything that can react also does the same. I keep everything sorted and take out what I need. Dont worry; this room could survive even that Wyvern Lord sting it with frost! Probably! It can <em>definitely</em> withstand a [Siege Fireball], no problem. I had that tested.


    What about us?


    Saliss nced up.


    Well, Im fine.


    Erin threw her hands up, rmed.


    What about <em>me?</em>


    The Drake grinned.


    Dont worry. This mixture wont ever explode. The worst thatll happen is that I have to toss it out. I wouldnt put you at risk.


    That actually sounded reassuring. Erin rxed as Saliss gestured to the shrinking liquid.


    Give me one second and I can bottle this. I just have toyes! Its doing it! You stupid little potion! Reduce! <em>Reduce!</em>


    He danced about, waving his arms and shouting at the potion. He lookedtired. For all he was dancing. And relieved, too. As the potion reduced, it stopped changing colors and became a bright silver. Like mercury, but clear, and with a faint aquamarine trace of color to it.


    Wonderful.


    Saliss had a little vial ready. He poured the liquid into it, stoppered it, and wiped at his brow. Without a word, he put the vial on the counter. And then he snatched it up and <em>hurled</em> it into one of the enchanted drawers.


    <em>Take that! You do not get the best of me!</em>


    Erin stared as the Drake ran over. The vial hadnded, undamaged, and now the Drake began stomping on it. It didnt shatter despite his blows, and Saliss threw it a few more times across theboratory until he was satisfied. Then he picked up the enchanted ss vial and turned to Erin.


    Okay, Im done. Lets chat in the study room. I have a chair there.


    He ushered Erin out of theboratory. Erin found herself sitting in a chair as Salissy on his back on the carpeted floor. Only then did she find her voice.


    What was <em>that?</em>


    Alchemy. I know, I know. Its aplex process. I dont expect you to get the nuance.


    Throwing it against the wall? Stomping on it?


    I was mad. Also, shouting at your potions helps. Thats obvious.


    Saliss sat up and grinned at Erin. She stared at him. The [Alchemist] shook his head wearily.


    Ive been working on that potion for <em>eight hours.</em> And I failed six times. I get to be mad! Hi. Youre Erin. Im Saliss. How can I help you? Alsohow did you find my bell? Did Xif tell you?


    No. I saw it.


    What? But no one ever <em>looks</em>. Ooh. Clever. So what did youe here for, Miss Erin Solstice with the interesting inn?


    The Drake grinned at her. Now he was done, he seemed to be returning to his normal self. Hed always been, well, Saliss, but Erin had seen him focused like aser on the potion. Now, he was rxed and cheerful. She only remembered the bag of chocte when he began sniffing.


    Is that food? I havent eaten indaydays.


    Erin slowly held out the bag. It was time to engage obfuscation mode.


    Chocte.


    Hm?


    Chocte.


    Erin stared at Saliss. He stared back. For a second she thought she saw him frown, then he gave her the same look. He stared at the bag, and nodded.


    Chocte.


    Erin hesitated. That wasnt what he was supposed to do. She tried again.


    Chocte.


    Chocte.


    Chocte.


    Chocte?


    Chocte!


    <em>Chocte.</em>


    Chocte.


    Chocte-chocte.


    Alright, fine, its chocte. Its a food! I brought it to you. I was sort of hoping we could talk.


    Erin threw her hands up. Saliss grinned. He sprang to his feet from the ground with incredible athleticism.


    Great! I was just about to visit you, actually! Id like more fire, or the flowers. Or just entertainment. Can I get all three?


    Erin blinked at him. She opened her mouth.


    Wait, I came to you to get help! I mean, this is a bribe.


    Ooh. Can I have some? Hey, this looks like poo! No, wait, I tell a lie. Not whates out of <em>me.</em><em>Sugary.</em>


    Saliss closed his eyes. He savored one piece, gobbled three more in quick session. Erin began to have regrets.


    First,ing here. Second, how this conversation had begun. Thirdshe was wondering what Saliss of Lights would look like on a <em>sugar-high.</em>


    Erin caught the Drake looking at her sidelong. Saliss grinned on his fourth piece of chocte, biting it in half. Then he offered Erin the bag.


    Want a piece yourself? This is really good. I dont remember having this. Is itpletely new?


    Sort of. Its from Baleros. But I have a tree in my gardenIm fine, thanks.


    Sure. This is really good, but Ill save it. So this is a bribe?


    Erin hesitated. That had slipped out. She nodded slowly.


    Thats right. Im bribing you. Uhcan I have some of your potions?


    She gave him a big smile. Saliss paused.


    Why? You want to blow someone up. Trust me, you could just hire a Gold-rank adventurer to do that for less than what my potions cost.


    The young woman squirmed in her seat. And she realized Saliss had sat in this very spot buck-naked probably thousands of times. She wondered if that was actually horrible. Seats were seats.


    Uh, well, I was hoping Id get some for free.


    Why?


    BecauseI asked nicely? And because Ill give you more chocte?


    The Named Adventurer paused. He looked at the chocte. Erin was ready for him to ask if a potion was worth a bag of chocte. But he just grinned at her.


    Ooh, then, can I have some flowers? Please?


    He fluttered his eyes at Erin. She red.


    Well yed.


    The two took another measure of each other. This was <em>not</em> how Erins n had been supposed to go. Shed been wavering between using the chocte on Chaldion, Grimalkin, and Saliss, but shed settled on Saliss because he seemed like he had the most of what Erin wanted/needed. But shed forgotten what Saliss was like, incredible as it was.


    Or perhaps, shed underestimated him. Erin nodded at the vial in his ws.


    What did you make? Some new exploding potion? And why do you need my fire? I know Xif wants to experiment, but is my fire <em>that</em> useful?


    The Drake shook his head.


    Its a youth potion, actually. And your fire is helping cut one of my processes and save me, oh, a good amount of gold. The happy me, you see? The heat isnt just physical. It makes you feel all warm inside, and that works on an alchemical level too


    Erins mouth dropped. She barely caught the rest of his exnation.


    Youth potion? You meanit makes you younger? As in, eternal youth?


    Saliss blinked. He waved a w,ughing.


    What? No, nojust for like, a week. Anti-aging potions are the other thing and theyre a <em>pain</em> to make.


    But for a week? Wait, go back. You can make anti-aging potions? Really?


    The [Alchemist] grinned.


    You dont need one. And the best I can do is about two years. And trust methose are harder to make than these. But this infernal brewwhich I can make one in ten times on a good daywill sell for more gold than you can imagine. All the old people scramble for it. Who wouldnt want to be young for a day, right?


    Erin could just imagine. She looked at Saliss and feltunprepared. She knew he was good, but a youth potion? He flipped it up into the air and caught it.


    Im going to run it down to the Merchants Guild after this. Theyll auction it off and stuff. Dont tell anyone I can make them. Or if you dotell rich people. But I hate being bothered about it.


    He nodded casually at Erin. She just looked at him.


    Why can you make one of those potions? Waitis it that easy?


    The Drake paused.


    No. Its not. But I can make them because Im one of the best in the world at my job. Old Xif goes wide. But I do battle mixes and the kind of stuff that earns real money. And you came to get my potions because you want to blow something up. What, exactly?


    He looked at Erin, grinning. And Erinhesitated. She could pretend, or she could trust the instinct that said he was onto her.


    I dont know what Im blowing up. It could be monsters. Or just something nasty. An Adult Creler, for instance. I have these um, acid jars. Made out of acid fly acid.


    Nasty! Wait, do you have a source? Id love to buy that. You can intensify the effects, although containing the substance is hard. Okay, for monsters. And what were you going to pay me with?


    The Drake sat cross-legged. Erin pointed at the bag.


    Um. I have chocte? And I can make more. Likecakes. Ice cream. Chocte milk. I was going to invite you to my inn for food if you want?


    Saliss eyes widened. He shot to his feet.


    Food? You had me at food! Im <em>starving</em>. Lets go. Ill leave this here.


    He tossed the vial onto the carpet, turned, and then ran back to stomp on it again. He really seemed to be holding a grudge over the precious liquid. But then againdid he say eight hours and six failures? Erin hesitated.


    I cant pay you much. But if I could get a few potionsuh


    She was embarrassed by the way she was asking. She had a different vision of how this would go, hopefully with Saliss having a huge sweet tooth. Which he clearly had, but this was different. To her surprise though, Saliss turned.


    What? Oh, no, foods different. I pay for food. As for the chocteI ept your offer. And Ill trade you for this.


    He reached for his bag of holding and produced something. Erin blinked as a swirling mixture of separate bands of color appeared in her palms. Saliss pointed at it.


    Thats a Potion of Speed. You need to get away fast? Drink that. You can probably outrun most people. Take an Invisibility Potion too. You can split it several ways; itll justst a minute or two if you do.


    He handed another bottle ofnothing. It didnt even look full, but <em>something</em> sloshed about when Erin took it. She stared at Saliss.


    Wait. <em>What?</em>


    Chocte.


    He winked at her and lifted the bag. Erins jaw dropped. Saliss of Lights shrugged.


    Im rich. Ill trade you more for chocte. Or buy it. Ill buy all of it. <em>Do</em> you have more?


    And he winked at Erin. And something in her said that he was serious. And lying to her as well. Part of Erin calmly looked at Saliss.


    <em>If she hade with nothing, he might have given her the potions anyways.</em>


    -


    Saliss and Erin made a strange pair going back to the door to Pass. The [Guards] certainly didnt stop him, although they gave Erin a strange look for associating with him. But Erin was too busy focusing on Saliss, or rather, inspecting him.


    When the Drake appeared in the inn, it was a busy time, heading towards evening. Chocte-mania was in full swing, but the entire inn still stopped when Saliss strode into themon room and posed.


    <em>Gah! What is that?</em>


    A Gnoll choked on his food. Saliss turned, waving his arms.


    Hello, everyone! What a lovely crowd!


    <em>Put some clothes on, you freak!</em>


    A pervert! Relc, get him!


    Hold on, isnt that


    Amid the chaos, Lyte pushed forwards. She had the finger of authority, twice as angry because Ekirra and Vismas family were here and staring.


    No clothes, no service!


    But I heard you have chocte. I have gold.


    Saliss had spotted the chocte cake, cookies, and other treats on disy. He reached out and started dropping gold coins onto the counter. Lyte stared at him. The Named Adventurer grinned. Lyte looked at Erin. The [Innkeeper] shrugged.


    Hes got gold. You gonna kick him out?


    Yeah.


    Saliss leaned on the counter. He grinned and looked sideways at Erin. Lyte spluttered.


    Im happy to serve you, um, Mister Oliwing. But could you at least wear a towel? Well provide the towel. But


    Chocte.


    Excuse me?


    <em>Chocte.</em>


    Erin echoed Saliss, solemnly.


    Chocte.


    -


    Octavia Cotton emerged from her roomte to dinner. Like usual, she obeyed her stomach, wondering why it was so empty and hungry. Shed been doing a bit of experimenting in her room since it was fairly st proof.


    She was lightheaded with hunger, so she went to the first spot at the bar. The staff knew her, so Octavia soon had a te of beef stroganoff in front of her. She ate hungrilyand only noticed the naked Drake after a few minutes.


    He was naked. Completely. Octavia paused mid-chew and stared at Saliss. The Named Adventurer was eating a blue fruit sd; hed already had a bit of pizza.


    Uh


    Dont mind me. Just grabbing some pepper. Adds to the taste, you know? The tongue gets old after tasting ingredients.


    The Drake tossed a few kes onto his sd. Octavia blinked at him. She eyed the Drake and caught on to thest word.


    Wait, you do [Alchemy]?


    Thats right.


    Instantly, he made sense to Octavia and she rxed. She was wondering why Erin would have let someone like this in here, but [Alchemists] were a different kind of mad. Some were legitimately addled from what they inhaled or touched, but others were just insane. It was a quirk of the job. Octavia nced around for Erin, but the [Innkeeper] was rushing about with chocte foods. It was a busy night. So Octavia just nodded at the Drake.


    I am an [Alchemist].


    Oh, hey, thats excellent! Saliss Oliwing. How long have you been in the alchemy game?


    About a decade, if you count apprenticing young. Less than half that if you dont. Octavia Cotton, owner, [Alchemist] of Stitchworks. Im from Chandrar. Are you new in Liscor, or a resident? Sorry, I just got here.


    His name was somewhat familiar, but Octavia found herself shaking the Drakes w. She supposed Erin had mentioned him? She was so hungry she went back to eating as the two spoke. Like many who shared the same ss, they had an instant camaraderie.


    Ive been at it, oh, a bit. But Im definitely new to Liscor. Would you say youre the best in the city? Also, anything interesting I should know about? I could use pointers.


    The Drake grinned. Octavia nodded. Ah, an immigrating [Alchemist]. Not umon given how you could wear out your wee even without gang wars. One bad ident was enough. She eyed him up and down. Competition? Well, he certainly had at least a decade on her.


    Actually, Im from Celum. Im new to Liscor too, but I hear theres good materials here. Shield Spiders, acid fliessay, whered you learn your trade?


    Oh, everywhere. But I was born and raised in Pass. Thats where I work, actually.


    <em>Pass?</em>


    Octavia paused. That was the big-leagues. When shede from Chandrar she hadnt even considered settling in Pass. Competing with all the good [Alchemists] there? No way. She had somewhat regretted her choice; Pas might have beenpetitive, but it had a good market and a thriving economy. Celum had been a fight to be the biggest fish in a puddle.


    Wow. Pass. Im uh, from Nerrhavia Fallen myself.


    Oh really? Ive been there! Hows Nerrhavia doing? Still having honor-duels between [Alchemists] in the streets? Good times, that. I tried practicing it in Pass, but no one would ept. Old Xifs no fun.


    <em>Xif.</em> Octavia stiffened, recalling the name of Pass bestand then Saliss name hit her again. It was familiar. Even starved as she was, she knew it. Andhed been to Nerrhavia? If he knew about the duels [Alchemists] got into


    Hey Octavia! Have you met Saliss? I shouldve known youd meet. Hey Saliss. Do you need more food? Are you sure I can keep


    Saliss waved as Erin stopped at their table. Octavia looked at Erin as the Drake replied.


    Its all fine. Keep em! I got a lot of chocte. Boy, itll be fun eating it.


    He grinned with pure delight. Octavia caught Erins sleeve.


    Erinwho is that?


    She gestured at Saliss. The Drake was grinning ahead, but she had the feeling he was looking at her out of the corner of her eyes. Erin paused. She looked Octavia up and down.


    Um, Saliss Oliwing? AlsoSaliss of Lights?


    The copper penny dropped. Octavia nearly bolted out of her chair. Saliss,ughing, waved her back over.


    Hi! Im Saliss!


    I am a <em>huge</em> admirer. I am so sorry I did not recognize you, Honored Saliss. No wait, Sir SalissI was hungry, and I was just working on something upstairs and


    Octavia stumbled over her words. Saliss winked at her.


    Its fine. Hey, so youre an [Alchemist]? Erin said she had one. Whats your specialty?


    Octavia gulped. But Erin had already run off. In awe, shaking with nerves, Octavia sat at the bar and tried to answer Saliss questions.


    Of course she knew him now shed remembered. He was a <em>legend</em>. Xif, now, Xif was famous. But Saliss was a <em>Named Adventurer</em>. Hed fought his way into the ranks of the best with only alchemy. She found herself stammering replies and realizing she was far too rattled to hold up a conversation.


    It would have been better if shed been in ignorance of who he was. Octavia kept biting her lip, hearing her incoherent replies. Saliss was clearly being patient, but he kept ncing about, and she realized she was boring him. Of course she was.


    Great to meet you, Miss Cotton. But Im gonna go turn that little Gnoll invisible. Or something. Good luck with your potions!


    Saliss winked at Octavia. The Stitch-Girl gulped. <em>She had to say it.</em>


    Wait! Master Salissis there anything I can do? Anything toto apprentice under you? Id settle for cleaning your shop, doing errands! Without even instruction!


    It would be worth it just to see what his shop was like. Saliss paused. He had a familiar look to Xifs on his face instantly. Octavia knew it was a long shot.


    I dont take apprentices, sorry! Thest ones died horribly! So horribly I cant even tell you how they died! Besides, youre clothed. I cant work with that.


    He gestured at Octavias clothing, grinning. The Stitch-Girl looked down at herself.


    Ill take my clothes off. Anything you want.


    Saliss blinked.


    What, now?


    Absolutely.


    Octavia put her fingers under her shirt. She was incredibly serious. Relcs head slowly swiveled around. Embria looked disgusted as she stomped on her fathers tail.


    Some of the other people whod heard were staring Octavias way. But she would absolutely do it. Saliss gave her a long look. Then he grinned and pped an airy w.


    Nah, Im fine. Nakedness is a way of life, not a bargaining chip! And Im naked enough for everyone!


    The Stitch-Girl sagged. But shed known how that would go. A real master would get every male or female [Alchemist] to strip in a heartbeat to learn from them. Well, Octavia would have hesitated at sexual favors, like some of Nerrhavias masters demanded. That was one of the reasons why shed left. But Saliss of Lights


    The Drake was looking at her in a kindly way, as if he could read her mind. Then he nced around at the inn.


    So you came from Celum? Erin caught me up on being banned. What got you going with her?


    Ohwell, I owe Erin a lot. She and her friends helped me with my own breakthroughs. Im not a good [Alchemist]I owe most of my big discoveries to her.


    Octavia was so deted she managed a coherent reply. Saliss eyed her. And something lit up in his eyes.


    Really? What did you discover?


    Octavia looked up. She thought of her matches and baking soda. But Xif hadnt been that impressed. Even soSaliss was looking at her. To prolong that moment she dashed upstairs to her room where her things were stored.


    Ooh. Whats <em>this?</em> And that?


    Saliss eximed as he stared at the match and baking soda. When Octavia lit one he pped his ws together.


    Ah, like a flint! And this?


    Erin made the bread out of it, actually. It makes it rise.


    <em>Really?</em>


    Saliss had to eat the bread himself. He ate it with some butter, happily, and then investigated the white baking soda. He took a pinch and smacked his lips as he tasted.


    Hm. Oh, I know what this is. Trona ore. Youve cleansed it and done something with itsomething wrong?


    Octavias jaw had dropped. In a moment Saliss had found the ingredient it had taken her so long to synthesize from Erins description. But then he looked at the matches.


    Interesting. Phosphorus molded withsomething. Can I eat this too?


    Its mmable


    Oh, no. I just want to know if its alright with you. Im just tasting it, actually.


    Octavia had to nod. Saliss tasted it.


    Charcoal, obviously. AndI see. Youve also pasted it on the box. Neat! Hey, these two things arent bad!


    The [Alchemist] tried not to glow under Saliss praise. But she was also deted. Saliss could instantly tell what her creations were made of by <em>tasting</em> it? The Drake was talking about selling it, now.


    Right, I can see making some of those. The [Engineers] will love the match-thing, and if it makes fluffy bread, the younger [Alchemists] will be making this all day.


    Well, if youd like to, I uhit would be an honor,ing from your shop, Master Saliss.


    Octavia mumbled. There went her big sales. Shed have to rely on Numbtongues findings. And he had to fight monsters to get his jewels.


    The Drake, whod been smiling, paused as he looked sideways at Octavia. And his eyes flickered.


    Oh. Hey. You think Im going to walk off with the recipes?


    Octavia jumped.


    What? No! That is, if a master like you were to


    Hey.


    Saliss smiled faded. His yful tone vanished. He leaned over and grasped Octavias arms, just above the stitching on her elbow. She saw him smile at her, without the teeth.


    Calm down, Miss Octavia. Im not stealing anything. I dont steal. This isnt Nerrhavia. Also, I dont really need either creation.


    Of course. I didnt mean to


    Hey. Im not done. And Im not being mean. Did old Xife by? Bet he did. Did he try to walk off with the recipes? Dont answer that. Listen, Im not stealing it. Im telling you to sell it.


    Octavia shut up. She looked at Saliss. He nodded.


    Sell it to Pass [Alchemists].


    But how?


    The Drake shrugged.


    We dont have a Guild. Those go boom, and most of us dont bother with regr meet ups anyways. But we do have a group. Well buy the recipe.


    Buy it?


    Buying a recipe? Octavia had heard of it being done, but [Alchemists] preferred to usually steal each others work. That was how it worked in Nerrhavia and Celum. But Saliss was nodding.


    Fairs fair in Pass. The [Engineers] used to have the same problem, but the Assembly of Crafts passed aw. Original inventions need to be creditedtheres actually a registry of who made what. But in practice, well just pay you once to let us use your recipe and you give us your notes. Ill run it by Xif and the other [Alchemists] I know. We like it, well all chip in and the younger ones can get the recipe. Well, we might make them work for it.


    He winked at Octavia. She felt something warm returning to her cloth heart, currently flesh and beating in her chest. Saliss eyed the matches and baking soda.


    And you say Miss Erin helped you make it? Interesting. Do you have anything else like that? If you do, Id love to see. Not stealing, again! Just as one [Alchemist] to another.


    Octavia Cotton looked at Saliss. He was the kindliest master of alchemy shed met. And Octavia Cotton, who had missed friendship for gold and made bad mistakes before, saw an opportunity. So her mouth took over for her shocked brain.


    I have a room upstairs. With stuff in it!


    -


    Interesting. Not bad. Thats awful. Thats worse. Nice molds. Are you using them?


    A little whileter, Saliss inspected the mess in Octavias room. Most of her non-vtile ingredients were piled up, ready to be put into the shop. He was staring at her molds, which had still failed to produce the mysterious penicillin Ryoka and Erin wanted so badly. They were in many colors, and the [Alchemist] poked at a few.


    You study molds too, Master Saliss?


    Octavia hovered behind him, trying not to get in the way and instantly provide anything the Drake wanted. The nudist shrugged.


    Well, I make poisons. You know that ones really toxic? You should probably keep that away from the kitchens.


    He pointed at a fluffy spore mold. Octavia winced. She had not known. She made a note to never tell Lyte and dispose of that one.


    Saliss? Octavia? Lyte said you were up here. Hey.


    Erin appeared as Octavia began telling Saliss about her various mold cultures. That was almost a relief. Erin could take some of the Drakes attention from Octavia; she felt like her threads wereing undone just talking to him. Erin didnt seem to realize what a <em>legend</em> Saliss was.


    But she had some notion. She eyed Saliss and Octavia.


    Hey. Um, I just wanted to say thanks, Saliss. For the potions.


    Octavias head swiveled around. Potions? Saliss had given Erin <em>potions?</em> You couldnt buy potions made by Saliss of Lights on the open market! When he sold, it was to an exclusive clientele who bid on his goods!


    Erin seemed to get all that from Octavias bug-eyed stare. And the fact that the Stitch-Girl was resewing an ear onto her head to make sure everything was right. She shuffled her feet as she looked at the Drake.


    Thanks for doing it. I know I was bothering you, and uhIm being pushy. But I just need things to protect the inn, so I bug people and


    Sure, sure,y it on me. Im not <em>Xif</em>. And Im currying favor.


    Saliss stretched, yawning. Erin and Octavia looked at him.


    Huh?


    The Named Adventurer grinned at Erin.


    <em>Im currying favor.</em> How much do I have? How am I doing? I get points for helping with Mrsha, right? And giving you that ring?


    He indicated the ring on Erins fingers. The [Innkeeper] started.


    Yeah. You did do that. And itsexpensive?


    She saw Octavias expression. Erin looked at Saliss.


    Very expensive? Why are you doing this?


    Saliss of Lights went for a shrug. Then he eyed Erin and smiled. And it was an enigmatic smile, of all his grins and taunting smirks.


    Because you have something I want. And this ce looks really entertaining. Say, Ill trade you a really nice potion for a faerie flower.


    Erin blinked at the sudden offer. She bit her lip, staring at the ring.


    No. Isorry. Look, I can think about


    Okay. How about four potions? Of invisibility?


    Erin froze.


    I


    Saliss spoke over her.


    Eight potions.


    Erin and Octavia traded nces. The Drake pursed his lips.


    Sixteen? st potions, poison gas clouds. The arsenal I use. How about it?


    Erin hesitated. She looked at Saliss. And Octavia saw her mind racing. She was screaming <em>yes, give him the flowers for that!</em> But Erin hesitated.


    She could be incredibly stubborn, Octavia knew. Beyond stubborn. And Salissknew it. Because heughed and pped Octavia on the shoulder.


    Its not working. See, Miss Cotton? I knew it wouldnt work. Ill have to try another way. Maybe begging. Im good at that.


    He winked at her. Erin looked at Saliss. He returned her gaze.


    Bear in mind its not that expensive for me, Miss Erin. And I just gave you the ring to bother old Chaldion and Grimalkin. Chocte for the potions. You dont owe me. Yet. But I hope youll look kindly on an impoverished [Alchemist]wait, Im rich. Well, I hope you keep entertaining me and giving me the asional nice thing.


    He winked at Erin. And the [Innkeeper] nodded.


    I uhno. No, you really didthank you. Imno, thanks. Theres just this thing with the flowers andIm sorry. But also, thank you.


    She lookedembarrassed. Which was a new look for her. Octavia stared as Erin backed away, turning red. And Saliss justughed.


    Its fine! Uh oh, shes running.


    He turned back to Octavia, as if vanquishing Erin Solstice was nothing in particr. She stared at him. And the Drake leaned against her wall.


    Its a heck of an inn, isnt it? I knew that the instant I saw Erin Solstice.


    It is.


    Octavia was certain of that. The Drake nodded.


    A magical garden. The door. A white Gnoll, oh, a few more interesting things here and thereand she wonders why I take an interest. Well, I like it. And she also has stuff that really interests me. Why shouldnt I appear?


    He looked at Octavia, but the soliloquy had been meant for more than just her, she felt. Then he nodded, slowly. And his eyes were sharp on the Stitch-Girls face.


    Let me give you some advice, Octavia. Theres no real secret to sess I figured out. I experiment, blow stuff up, nearly die, and count my gold pieces like every other [Alchemist]. But the key to alchemy is new ingredients. Rare things. And when you find something rare? Something unique? You go after it.


    He paused. Octavias heart was beating fast as Saliss looked around Octavias room. He smiled again.


    Xif came here. I know he did. But that old Gnoll made one mistake. He thought Erin only had one special thing. And hes hung around Drakes too long. Hes a bit greedy; looks at cost and gains. Hes better at being a Drake than I am. Wellso are most people. Your [Princess], for one.


    He smiled and winked. Octavia was nodding, then she paused.


    My what?


    Saliss paused. His calm smile flickered, and then reappeared.


    [Princess]? You know, yourslightly stuck up Human who loves gold and bossing people about? Sorry, Drake joke about Humans.


    Heughed, lightly, and Octaviaughed too, embarrassed.


    Oh, right. Sorry. Im from Chandrar; we have royalty too.


    Right, right.


    The Drake rxed slightly as Octavia nodded, her expression clearing. He sighed, and then fixed Octavia with a sudden, quick look.


    Tell you what, Miss Octavia. I have a recipe for an invisibility potion, which <em>always</em> sells. It eats ruby dust like nothing else, but I see you have ess to gemstones. And Ive got other gem-based recipes. Ill share my notes if you match it. Deal?


    Octavias eyes went wide. Saliss went on, looking at her.


    I like to gamble. And I just bet Xif yed his paw far too early. If Erins got a flower <em>and</em> a me, what do you have, Miss Cotton?


    She hesitated. And she thought of bing famous alone. Butwhat she hadnt offered or shown to Xif was different. Saliss was different. He could be faking. But if he was, Octavia would pull out her life-thread herself.


    Slowly, Octavia went over to a spot under her bed, where shed hidden her most precious objects. She cleared away some magicore, gemstones, gold, and came out with a little jar with a tiny bit of liquid in it. It sloshed around as she held it up and turned to face Saliss.


    The liquid shone, with a vibrancy and magic that made the other [Alchemist] stop. Instantly. Saliss focused on the jar as Octavia offered it to him. The younger [Alchemist] was trembling as she spoke.


    I think <em>this</em> is a Potion of Haste. Master Salisswhat do you have to trade me for it?


    She waited. And on this moment, all things turned. Saliss stared at the magical potion Octavia had gotten from Ryoka, that shed never duplicated. He stared at it, in silence, and then at Octavia. And then he exhaled.


    Slowly.


    I dont take apprentices. But I guess I could show you some stuff, when Im not adventuring. Let me get some of my recipes from my shop and well haggle. Word to the wise? <em>Haggle with me.</em>


    He reached out and carefully patted Octavia on the shoulder. Her eyes went wide. Saliss turned. He walked towards the door and paused.


    Well?


    She stared at his back. Saliss winked at her. And he grinned.


    Are youing? My shop has all the cool things. Yours is nonexistent right now. Let me show you how to make invisibility potions. The trick is watching out when the potion itself bes invisible. Dont forget its there. Also, you can mix it with water and its hrious. Come on.


    -


    Erin Solstice and Lyte stared as Saliss came down the steps to the inn. Octavia was following him, clutching a little ss jar filled with a glowing liquid. And she had a staring expression.


    Erin had seen it a few times. But she was looking at Saliss much the same way. The Drake stretched.


    Its been fun, everyone! But Im going back to Pass real quick. Im borrowing your [Alchemist], Erin. Ill bring her back! But Im going to trade for some of her rare stuff. Darn, I guess Ive gotta pay for that door to recharge.


    He snapped his ws.


    Hey, you know what that door to Pass needs? More rechargability! I bet youd get a lot more guests if they coulde through without having to wait or pay for a [Mage]. Huh? What do you think?


    Saliss of Lights look around. The others just stared at him.


    No? Well, what do I know? Im not an [Innkeeper].


    He shrugged, and then strolled towards the double doors leading to the hallway. Saliss paused and looked back at the inn.


    Ill drop by another time, huh?


    Sure. And when you doput on a towel?


    Erin mustered a reply. She saw Saliss grin, andugh.


    Is that a never, then?


    The young woman put her hands on her hips.


    Maybe just a ssh of invisibility potion?


    Saliss guffawed. He beckoned to Octavia, waved at Erin, and turned. Heughed as he walked towards the door.


    I really like this ce. Tonight Im gonna dance on Xifs rooftop. He might actually cry.


    And then he was gone. Octavia babbled something about the opportunity of a lifetime and ran after him. And Erin saw Lyte looking at her.


    That <em>is</em> a Named Adventurer. Erin, I know Grimalkin and Chaldion are one thing, but do you think hessane?


    Erin paused. She looked after Saliss. And she didnt have Lytes reservations. No, something else rose in Erin, then.


    It was a stirring feeling in her chest. And she spoke automatically.


    I like him. I want to be best friends.


    Lyte stared at Erin. She opened her mouthand then closed it. Becausethe words were frivolous at first. A joke. But then you had to look at Erin. And think.


    How many people had she said that about? How many people called themselves Erins friends? So many. But how many had she ever said<em>that</em> about?


    Erin Solstice slowly leaned on the counter of her bar, in her inn. It wasnt that Saliss was funny that made her like him. Or that he was strong, or kind. Or even his quirks which <em>did not resemble her that much</em>. No, she had met other people who were just as brave or strong, or kind.


    No, what spoke to Erin was something else. A familiarity that she had felt. That she had seen through him and he through her. Asense that there was an inner-Saliss, carefully watching himugh and dance about in the nude.


    Like a little Erin, who was sometimes genuinely forgetful, or random or silly. But sometimes calcted. But where that inner-Salissor inner-Erin began to calcte and where they were genuine, youd never know. Not even them.


    But what she saw in the inner-Saliss and the outer was something familiar. A strange, crazy thing in a person in this world. A desire to help people. Without getting something in return all the time. To make someones life better. To reach out and grab a iling hand.


    To not be a jerk.


    Kindred spirits. Erin wondered if it was just her imagination. By her side, Lyte exhaled.


    You would like him. Hes a bit like you, I suppose. Maybe. But please tell me you wont strip and walk around nude.


    Mrsha does it.


    True. We really need to buy her pants.


    Mrsha looked up as the two young women stared down at her. She folded her arms.


    <em>You and what armies? </em>