Interlude A Meeting of [Druids]_The Wandering Inn

Interlude A Meeting of [Druids]

 (A preview of Volume 2 is now up on Soundcloud! Check it out here! The audiobook will be release July 14th!)

 Another day passed. And whatever madness, glories, tragedies or acts of fate had passed, the next day the world remained.

 Wellfor now. She woke up in the rolling, bumping darkness and realized she was alone. Which was preferable, for now.

 Slowly, the City Runner reached into a pouch. And for light, instead of a spell, came a glowing vial. The liquid sloshed around.

 Viridian. What a color. Blue and green, ostensibly. What vibrancy. What magic. For a moment, Ryoka Griffin marveled at it. Such a little vial; less than a mouthful, unless you were a baby.

 It could change everything. Ornothing.

 Panacea. Fierrebut what did Teriarch say? What did he mean? What causes Vampires to fall ill? He knows.

 The mumbled questions from Ryokas sleepy lips were still tinged with a bit of satisfaction. A bit of happiness, wonder. She had met the Dragon. And he had left the cave. He had given her hope. And this.

 A magical potion. And a question. The Dragon might refuse to interferebut he was fairly bad at thismitment. And even half-hearted replies told Ryoka a lot.

 Vampires.

 There was a tap; Ryoka jumped and fumbled the vial into her belt. When the coachman opened the sliding window to address her, she was stretching.

 Miss Griffin? Were nearing Reizmelt. Should be in eight hours if theres no dys. Nothing bads happened yet, huh?

 Dont jinx us.

 Thenky young woman stretched out. She was rewarded with a grinbut a nervous one. The [Coachman] chuckled.

 Never thought my only passengers would be a City Runner, eh?

 It was a joke, albeit at her expense. Ryoka took it in good humor.

 The driver was nervous. Ryoka hadnt known the overnight coaches were part of the Merchants Guild, but it was obvious in hindsight. They needed a central authority and management, and theirs was an important service, even if Runners did deliveries.

 After the Bloodfeast Raiders attack, the Merchants Guild had done an inspection to make sure Ryoka hadnt provoked the attack. She had been carrying valuables, but since it wasnt on a delivery, they hadnt banned her from using the coaches.

 But it was a close thing. Besides whichword had got out. Bloodfeast Raiders, riots; few people were using the overnights. So somewhat ironically, Ryoka was providing this [Coachman]s coin for the day. She had tipped handsomely; in fact, in advance.

 [Coachmen] were practical people. You gave them money up front and they made your passage morefortable, rather than after the fact. Neither had seen anything more dangerous than a wild Mothbear, and it had ignored them.

 Even so, both she and the driver were nervous. Ryoka smiled at the driver.

 I cant run from Invrisil to Reizmelt as fast as a coach. Not nearly, even if I drank stamina potions every mile. Not high enough level yet. Sorry.

 He grinned toothily at her.

 Sokay, Miss. Your lot is the ones targeted by [Bandits] on the roads. Usually. They know the overnights dont carry more than people, and not wealthy folk, most off. Lets just not have trouble, eh?

 Your wish is my dream, Mister Randal.

 The little sliding hatch shut. Ryoka sat back. Staring nkly at the covered windows. After a moment, she rolled up the shades. Sunlight streamed into the coach. She was headed back to Reizmelt after The Wandering Inn.

 She would return. She had promised Mrsha. But she had a job to do. A party the likes of which even the fae would want to visit. Powerful nobles to impress.

 The Archmage of Izril waited. Ryoka felt the wind blowing around her, cooling down the horses. She smiled, slightly.

 Better find a [Seamstress], too.

 She had ns that might just involve breaking every bone in her body. So, some things never changed.

 -

 As the coach rumbled forwards, the roads were mostly clear. Riots had happened. Not in smaller towns or cities, but Invrisil had not been the only ce struck by them. Terandria, even as far away as Baleros and a very few Chandrarian citiesthe synchronicity across the world was frightening.

 And even now, the [Coachman] was reading the new papers he had gotten from the Mages Guild on his 30-minute stop in thest town, detailing the riots. Created by Wistram, distributed to most Mages Guilds. He passed the paper to Ryoka when he was done and steered with one hand as he drank a soup-breakfast.

 She contented herself with some of Erins sandwiches. They held up pretty well in her bag of holding. She just wished Erin made more sandwiches than grilled cheese, peanut butter and jam, and ham n egg.

 Erin was weird.

 And as it happened, the coach rode past a weary three adventurers, arguing as they headed north. They were covered in blood, and the travellers on the road steered wide of them. The [Coachman], Randal, slowed to stare at the trio. They werent [Bandits]; rather, they were adventurers.

 Im telling you, I didnt know they exploded.

 Falene snapped. Dawil and wes red at her. The half-Elf was only partly covered in blood. But the [Knight] in his armor and the Dwarf were soaked. They had run into some monsterspart-fungi, part flesh-and-bloodwhose defense-tactic was to explode and thus send viscera and spore everywhere.

 Lets not point fingers and me Falene now. We all know whose fault it was. The problem is that weve lost our horses.

 Dawil growled. He dumped a water sk over his head. wes spat and Falene slowly cast a cleansing spell on her robes rather than herpanions. The [Knight] spoke, gagged on mushroom-blood, took a swig, spat, and spoke again.

 Weve lost our horses. They were galloping for the High Passes,st I saw. If we lose them, were only out the cost of the saddles and rental. Lets ask if a [Hostler] can locate them. Some can whistle them back from miles and miles away. And theyre trained to run back home if theyre in danger.

 If theyre dead, the stables will give us hell. Damnit. I hate mushrooms. Think we couldve eaten them?

 The Gold-ranks stared back the way theyde. All three shuddered. It hadnt even been a quest; theyd just seen the carnivorous fungi close to the road and decided to do the world a favor and themselves a disservice.

 I miss Durm. We should buy dedicated warhorses. Or at least, Ill buy one. Falene, please stop cleaning yourself and conjure some water for us?

 The half-Elf [Battlemage] pointed and a jet of water sted Dawil in the left ear. He roared in fury, but after a brief scuffle, the three Gold-ranks looked at each other. Dawil grimaced, feeling at his belt.

 Lets talk after we get back. Were not sitting flush when ites to coin, wes. Althoughthat old woman did give us this amulet-thingy. And those other two heirlooms. And the familys treasured potion of who-knows-what. Might be worth something.

 He named the gifts thest three viges had given them after the Silver Swords had killed monsters, removed andslide, and recovered a lost and prized magic cow carried off by a pair of Ogres, not in that order. The Silver Swords operated like that. They were as antithetical to Todis Elites and even Griffon Hunt as possible.

 And there came the overnight coach. Dawil spotted it as wes scrubbed at his armor with a bit of soap, cursing the sticky blood.

 How much further is it to Reizmelt?

 Eh. Should be a days ride. Told you we should have taken a coach. Sayhey! Hey, hold up there! We want a ride!

 Randal slowed the carriage, warily. Adventurers werent a preferred passenger. They tended to cause trouble. Even so, after a moment of shouting he slowed.

 -

 Yes, we can pay! Gold!

 Ryoka awoke from a daydream involving disease and Vampires. She realized the coach had slowed. The speaking-slot opened.

 Sorry, Miss Ryoka. Weve gotpany. Adventurers. They want a lift. Lost their damn horses, but they seem decent. I know the team. Theyre a sight. Take a look.

 The door cracked open. Ryoka blinked at the trio of Gold-ranks. wes raised a hand.

 Ah! Excuse me! Were getting on the coach. Are you the only rider?

 Thats right.

 Ryoka peered surruptitiously at the very knightly-looking [Knight]. He was blonde, tall, he looked like a fairy-tale hero. There was a Dwarf, a half-Elfshe had the instant urge to hum a certain theme song. She was tempted to look around for an army of Orcs.

 Im deeply sorry, Miss. Rest assured, well clean ourselves before entering. We ran into someunpleasant monsters just before reaching the road.

 Its fine by me. Youre adventurers, right?

 The [Knight] blinked and then smiled as the half-Elf waved her staff and a huge orb of water sshed down on the Dwarfs head. He kicked her.

 Excuse me; weve been impolite. My name is wes of House Byres. This is Falene Skystrall, and Dawil Ironbreaker. Were Gold-rank adventurers, the Silver Swords.

 Ryoka nodded to them and sat back, waiting as the Silver Swords washed themselves as clean as possible. She wished she had her iPhone.

 Outside, wes sighed as Falene blew wind around them, drying them off.

 Not far to Reizmelt, now. And our objective.

 Mhm. Well let Erin know when we arrive. Say,d

 Dawil tapped wes arm. The Human man looked down at him.

 Dont call med. What?

 Just a thought. Im all for helping Erin out. Not like we have ns. But erit urs to me just now that we only have a name to go on. Have you met this girl were supposed to find? What does this Ryoka Griffin look like, anyways?

 The half-Elf and Human exchanged a nce. Falene put a finger to her temple.

 Ill ask for a description from Ceria. Shes finally mastered [Message].

 Good idea.

 Im sure Pointy-Ears would havee up with it, eventually. She just didnt want to say to embarrass us. Obviously.

 The Dwarfs smug look earned him a deep re as he mbered into the coach. He waved at Ryoka, who nodded back; he was the first Dwarf shed seen up close. The other two piled in and the coach moved on in short order.

 They were an interesting bunch. The first thing the Dwarf did was hold out a hand.

 Sorry about the smell. Exploding mushrooms. Appreciate you letting us in.

 Not at all. Adventurers keep everyone safe. Especially someone like me. Good to meet you all.

 They nodded in a friendly manner at her. The [Knight] nced at Ryoka; the half-Elf was doing something magical to judge by the way her eyes were flickering.

 May I ask where youre bound? Were headed to Reizmelt.

 Oh really? Me too. Im a City Runner. I work around there. Sorry, I should have introduced myself. My names Ryoka Griffin.

 wes hand tightened on Ryokas hand. He blinked. Dawil sat up. Falene lowered her hand, [Message] unsent. The [Knight] stared at Ryoka as she saw his face change.

 Really? Well, this is fortunate. Weve been looking for you, Miss Griffin.

 Ryokas face froze. She stared at wes. She couldnt help notice that wes armoralong with his swordwas silver. She hesitated.

 What did you say your name was?

 wes Byres.

 The [Knight] saw Ryoka start.

 Oh. Do you know Yvlon?

 wes blinked.

 Shes my younger sister.

 Small world. Soyoure looking for me?

 The Silver Swords nodded. They gazed at Ryoka and Falene casually adjusted her staff.

 Someone would like to speak to you, Ryoka Griffin. Please

 -

 The City Runner exploded out of the coach. Randal jerked, and the horses reared in rm as Ryoka Griffin took off running. He turned to stare after the Silver Swords, who poured out of the coach, chasing her.

 Theydugh over itter. Well, probably. Ryoka Griffin might notugh as much. And after a while, in hindsightshe would me Erin for all that happened next.

 -

 The Wandering Inn was having a busy day. There were quiet days, when the worst thing that happened was Erin spent all day hunting for a missing chess piece or tried to make a 10-foot pizza for fun.

 But busy days came after dark drama, or triumph. So much was happening.

 The [Lords] were gone. Lady Bethal was in Invrisil, enjoying a y. But the door was popping with activity.

 Mavi El was there. And before the sun had even properly risen, you could hear her haranguing an [Innkeeper].

 and when you make a contract, you need to have it officiated at least by the Merchants Guild. It isnt that hard, Erin.

 Leave me alone! Lytes better at this!

 Theyre negotiating with you. You need to learn how to talk to them. Its not hard. Listen, well practice. Stop running away

 Thump, thump, thump. Erin ran down the hallway. Mavi El pursued her.

 Stop being childish.

 I dont wanna do it!

 You are impossible. Dont make me spank you.

 Ill punch you! Why do I have to learn all this?

 The two arguing young women were talking about contracts. Sending food, supplies hundreds of miles via magic door. Erin Solstice had struck a det least the beginning of oneand Mavi was determined to make it real. The [Innkeeper] was less than happy, but her protestations grew weaker because Mavi was right. She sighed, turned

 But of course, it wasnt always about Erin. As the [Innkeeper] reluctantly returned to her room, a little white paw reached up. A white Gnoll hefted a giant rock, still covered with dirt, into a drawer. She tossed itand never heard the thunk.

 A tail wagged. Mrsha peered into the drawer. Then she put a pillow in there. It vanished as soon as she inserted it into the drawer. Mrsha padded off. She came back with hers and Lytes nkets. She stuffed them into the drawer.

 From the outside, the singlepartment in the chest of drawers should have held some clothesa few knickknacks. But six rocks, a pillow, nkets, and now a variety of Mrshas gifts, including Numbtongues silver ball and her horn went sailing into it.

 A very excited little face poked over the edge of the drawer. Mrsha rubbed her paws together.

 Most excellent. Of course, this was the most important thing happening in the inn. Mrsha vaguely heard Mavi sitting down.

 Okay. This is a sample contract. Note the magical bindings on the side? Magical contracts are essential for agreements you need to enforce with magic. Skills on the other hand can do the same. So never sign anything unless youre sure

 Oho! What else can I put in here, then?

 Mrsha padded out of her room. After a second, she pushed open another door, came out with Numbtongues pillows and nkets. She pushed them into the drawer. Stared inside.

 It was mostly full. Mrsha, experimenting with the limits of Erins [Compartments of Holding] had discovered that they were far more spacious than your average Bag of Holding. So much so that the upper limit of even the drawers in hers and Lytes room couldfortably hold all this stuff.

 She liked it. Erin had woken everyone up in the middle of the night shouting about her new Skill. Mrsha had wanted to experiment, but shed been so sleepy.

 At first, Lyte hadnt been too impressed. Numbtongue had decided it was useful for storing more weapons, but had promptly gone back to sleep. But for the Gnoll childthis was amazingly fun.

 She could hide all her things wherever she wanted! In a tiny little space! Mrshas mind raced with the possibilities. Hide snacks Lyte would never find! Store all her favorite things!

 Lyte only had boring ideas like lets store even more food and supplies and facilitate trade with the nobles! Erins new Skill worked on anything that was apartment. Be it drawer, closet, cupboard, or even sacks in the basement, it essentially made the insidesrger than what they should be. Multiplied space.

 Mrsha reached down into the drawers and pulled out a pillow. She fluffed it experimentally.

 So convenient. The Gnolls tail wagged. She had another brilliant idea. She stared into thepartment, which had held two nkets, six pillowsNumbtongue liked pillowsrocks, some of her toysit was full to the brim. But if you removed two more pillows

 There was a nice divot of space in there. Mrsha eyed the open spot. She had been told by Lyte you should never put living things into a Bag of Holding. But this was a Skill. Slowly, Mrsha looked around and then surreptitiously climbed into

 -

 The first screaming howl made Erin and Mavi jump from their room. They shot to their feet and looked around. They couldnt ce it at first. But the second howl of pain made them run out of the room.

 Mrsha? Where are you?

 Erin located Mrsha in Lyte and Mrshas room a beat before she saw a green blur race upstairs. Numbtongue kicked the door open, his new sword drawn.

 They found Mrsha in the cupboard. She was <empressed along with the nkets, rocks, and other objects in the now ordinary-sized cupboard. Numbtongue tugged at the door, but Mrsha just howled louder. So the Hobgoblin aimed his sword and carefully cut the entire cupboard apart.

 Broken bits of woodthe objects had cracked the other drawers when they reverted to real spacepillow feathers, and Mrsha all exploded outwards. The Gnoll was crying. She let Erin scoop her up as Lyte, panting, raced up the stairs with a sword in her hands.

 What happened?

 Sniffling, Mrsha exined to Erin and Numbtongue out what happened.

 Bags of Holding dont contain people. At leastnot alive. Erins Skill must not either. Its a failsafe. Better than what the enchantment does to some people. Its definitely Erins Skillif Mrsha tried that with a superior holding enchantment, it might havepressed her. Or even let her climb inwithout air.

 Mavi wiped at her pale face. The teary-eye Gnoll found herself cuddled and scolded by turns. Only after Erin had made Mrsha promise to never, ever do that again, did she rx.

 That was how her day started. Mrshas, that was. Twenty minutester, she was feeling better. Even if Lyte had been very mad.

 But aside from that near-squish experience, Mrsha decided the drawers were alright. She was careful not to put herself in them. But as Numbtongue (now acting as her supervisor until Drassi signed in), remarked, the Skill had benefits for the creative.

 Nice Skill. Pyrite has a good idea. Cant put people inside, but storage isnt the only trick. You still hurt?

 Mrshas hurts had been healed with a little sip of healing potion. She shook her head bravely and sat by his leg. Cross-legged, the Hobgoblin was sitting with a chair lying on the ground in front of him. He had a knife, one of the inns crossbows, and several bolts lying there.

 The crossbow was unloaded. And it said something that Erin had asked Numbtongue to take care of Mrsha, believing, rightly, that she would be much safer in hispany. Mrsha reached out to touch a crossbow bolt. Numbtongue let her. If she stabbed herself, he wouldnt offer much sympathy.

 His new, Dragonblood-crystal sword on the other hand, he didnt even let Mrsha near. And when she tried to edge around to see the wonderful scabbard, which had a red fang sewn on ithe looked at her.

 Do you want to lose your paw?

 Mrsha hesitated. The Gnoll child scooted back on her bum and made no more efforts to even touch the sword. She was a good girl. She really was. Her adventures were justeradventures. In that sense, Erin, and even Lyte and Numbtongue were all poor role models. Bird was somehow the most careful and that was a horrible thought.

 Well, she was learning things. And one of her favorite, if rarest instructors now appeared. Numbtongue raised a finger. Then his expression changed.

 His posture grew more heavysetout of memory, not reality. He sat back, grunted. Scratched at his belly, and then looked at Mrsha.

 Hello, Mrsha. Good children dont y with artifacts.

 She respectfully waved back. But the Hobgoblinthe Goldstone ChieftainPyrite, did not waste time. He picked up the knife and got to work with the chair leg at once. As he did, he spoke.

 Had a thought. Interesting. Skills of [Innkeepers]. Not very Goblin. Extremely powerful. Wish I had been one. Useful. Idea withpartments. You see?

 He dug the knife into the cheap chair leg. Mrsha frowned. She didnt. But Pyrite was smart. She watched; he was cutting into the wood. Cutting a block out of the leg.

 Hm. Concealed. Hollow this.

 The Hobgoblin began digging with one w into the wood, hollowing a cavity. He showed Mrsha. She frowned, then figured out what he was doing. Her eyes went round and the [Chieftain] gave her a slow wink.

 Drawer. Compartment. Now. How powerful is Skill? Is it based on size or always makes everything bigger by same amount?

 The crude drawer was tiny. But as Pyrite slotted the secretpartment into the table leg, Mrsha saw it expand. Pyrite checked the drawer. He grunted.

 Hm. Three times bigger. Rat. Then

 The time limit expired. Numbtongue blinked. He shook his head, paused a brief moment, and finished Pyrites thoughts in his own words.

 Cant hide the crossbow in here. Is okay. Can hide it in a slightly bigger spot. Here. Watch.

 The chair he abandoned. This time, the Hobgoblin wandered downstairs and came up with some bits of wood. Quickly, he fashioned together a crude box. It was smallthe size of two hands. But when it was sufficiently box-like, it took on Erins Skill.

 Aha. See?

 Numbtongue put the hand-sized crossbow and some iron-tipped bolts inside. Then he closed the lid. It appeared to be impossibly small. And if you werent carefulunnoticeable. The Hobgoblin winked at Mrsha and she grinned.

 Now, where do we put it?

 They walked downstairs and investigated. Mrsha wanted to install the tiny box under a table, so you could pull out a crossbow and go boom, like those Cow Boys that Erin had told her about. But Numbtongue was more practical.

 Everyone sits at tables. Better to put it here.

 He ced it right next to the windowsill, next to one of the flower nters. Erin had moved the Faerie Flowers to her garden to prevent thieves, but shed liked the flowers so much that she had some lovely scented red ones there. The crude box was innocuous. Mrsha grinned. She saw Numbtongue lean against the windowsill, check the room, and slowly slide the box open. He grinned at her with his teeth and she gave him the same smile. The Hobgoblin leaned down and muttered in her ear.

 Now just have to hide the acid-jars. Maybe small vials in chair legs? Or just shiv?

 -

 Mrsha was just done hiding the acid jars in secret spots in the inn with Numbtonguetheyd decided not table legs given how often they got smashedwhen they heard Palt calling for Erin.

 The Centaur didnt like stairs. He could do thembut with difficulty. Lyte was working on a special ramp between floors in the new parts of the inn. But it wasnt done yet.

 I have a spell from the Silver Swords! Its urgent! Theyve uhthey say theyve found Ryoka Griffin?

 What?

 Erin came ttering down the stairs. Mrshas ears perked up. She saw Erin, with Palts help, using themunication spell. Even Mrsha couldnt hear the other side of the conversation, but she heard Erins side.

 Ryoka? But whyIuh oh. Uh oh. Faleneum, no, listen. Listenwait, you got her? When you saytied up? What happened? She did wno! No, she already came back here! Yes! A few days ago! I forgot to tell you! Uhumis that Ryoka in the background? Listenno, Im so sorry. But listen

 All was well. Mrsha rxed. And the guests of the inn starteding in as Erin began apologizing profusely.

 The first was the two strangers with hats. A rather stylish Gnoll and a Drake. Mrsha liked them. They were always polite. They tipped their hats to Lyte, they spoke funny, and the Gnoll gave her some snacks.

 I say, Ratici. That was a bit of a scrap yesterday. I feel somewhat embarrassed to tell the truth. We nearly failed our contract.

 How were we to know, Wilovan? But we were stuck in Invrisil. Perhaps we should stay here?

 Some thought on that, Ratici. The Tall Mans paying well. Too well to pursue ourother activities. I say we devote more effort to this.

 Agreed, agreed.

 The two sighed. Then the Drake did a double-take as he stared at one of the windows. His eyes narrowed; they flicked to a beam on the ceiling, the kitchen, and then he looked all around. Wilovan patiently cut a pork chop in half.

 Something the matter, Ratici?

 The inns different. Im seeing multiple holding areas, Wilovan. Either this [Innkeeper]s leveled up or an [Enchanter] went insane. And someones already created multiple stashes.

 Anything good inside?

 Hand crossbow, knife, jars ofsomething.

 Sensible precautions. Pass the salt?

 A high-levelsomething. Mrsha stared at Ratici, suspiciously as the Drake noted all the ces she and Numbtongue had just been. She looked around for the Hobgoblin, but he was gone.

 Numbtongue, Numbtongue! They found your secret stuff! The hat-duo!

 Mrsha found him in Octavias shop. She waved her hands, using signnguage. At first, the Hobgoblin didnt notice.

 Mhm. Looks like nice paste. Edible?

 Its more than that, Numbtongue. And no, dont eat it. Ryoka calls it penicillin. Or something close. Im spreading the word, trying to find a buyer among [Healers].

 Octavia was leaning across her counter, showing the Hobgoblin something in a jar. Mrsha waved her paws.

 What? Is that Mrsha? Hey! My shops off-limits, kid! Say, Numbtongue, do you know why all my cupboards are suddenly three times as big on the inside?

 The [Alchemist] frowned. Numbtongue grinned.

 What happened waswhat, Mrsha?

 He bent down. With some trouble, Mrsha exined. Numbtongue frowned and his eyes flicked back to themon room. But he didnt seem too concerned.

 High-level. Smart. Ill watch them. You go back. No Mrshas allowed in shop. What buyers, Octavia?

 The two went back to smiling over the weird-smelling paste. Mrsha huffily walked back to the door. Some people werent grateful for Mrsha the Spys information! How dare they!

 She was ready to spy on the two dangerous, potential infiltrators when the door opened and brought through a slurry of people from Pass.

 Hello everybody! Did you miss me!

 A naked Drake strode into the inn. Ratici choked on his drink. Mrshas head turned. Saliss of Lights bounded into the room, smiling, wavingnaked. You got used to it.

 I say, sir! There are children here! Put on some pants, please!

 Wilovan rose to his feet. The Drake spun.

 Excuse me? You and what army? Say

 The two locked eyes across the room. Raticis eyes narrowed.

 Named Adventurer.

 Saliss eyed them.

 Hm.

 -

 Saliss of Lights had not had a good day. Or perhaps that was inurate to say. Saliss had been fine.

 Yesterday, hed beenrgely out of sight during the riots. And even afterwardshed just gone around handing out potions to injured people, nakedly posing in front of [Guard] patrols and annoying the heck out of themthat was what Saliss had done.

 At the same time, though, a certain female Drake had seen fighting. Shed dragged more than one person out of the protests when the Watch came cracking down on them like a ton of bricks. It did not put either Drake in a good mood.

 Saliss didnt know why hede here. Perhaps because he was in a bad mood. He did not want to be inPass at the moment. The curfew and martialw was still in effect.

 He narrowed his eyes. He couldnt read either Wilovan or Raticis levels or sses. But that didnt matter. Saliss recognized talent. And anyone who bought charms that blocked [Appraisal] usually needed such items for a reason.

 Say, fellows. Do I know you?

 The Drake skipped over and put an arm around the Gnolls shoulder. For a moment he saw the Gnolls body shift. He was quick. But he rxed and let Saliss do it.

 I am, sir, Wilovan. And this is my partner, Ratici. You must be the infamous Saliss of Lights.

 Guilty! But dont arrest me! The jails are already full in Pass!

 The Drake grinned about them. Wilovan looked down.

 Sir, theres a young Gnoll child in this very inn. I have to insist you put on something to cover your shorings.

 Hey! Theyre not that shwell, maybe they are. But Im afraid theyre there to stay.

 The Gnoll coughed. He adjusted his hat.

 Adventurer Saliss. Im but a poor fellowpared to a personage such as yourself. But I fear I must insist. Good dressing and decorum are the manners of every gentleman.

 That rankled Saliss more today. He grinned, toothily.

 Im afraid no one puts pants on me.

 Wilovan nced at Ratici. The Drake raised his brows. But the [Thug] stiffly addressed Saliss.

 Sir. There are women, children, and people I assume who dont wish to see unmentionables while dining and taking their leisure. I feel I should insist.

 All three individuals paused there. Saliss smile never wavered. But his eyes narrowed.

 Like I said. You and what army?

 What Wilovan might have said or done next was up for debate. The Gnoll was ncing about, inspecting the innnot a good ce to cause troublea little Gnoll child peering at them around a door, and no doubt aware of Saliss himself. He adjusted his tall hat

 And Erin Solstice shouted.

 Hey! Saliss! There you are! I could have used you yesterday! Whats up?

 She waved and the Drake turned. Wilovan hesitated, stepped back, and Ratici rxed. Saliss of Lights turned. And there was Erin.

 Erin! My favorite Human! I think! How are you?

 He spread his arms,ughing, and posed. Just to annoy the Gnoll. But Erin was hurrying over and she had something in her hands.

 A box. Saliss recognized it. He put up his ws.

 Hold on now, that was only for Mrshas birthday, Miss Erin.

 Aw, Saliss. But people like eating here! Come on! I added something to make it better.

 Added? Erin, as I was just telling this fine fellow, you and what arm

 Erin showed him the front of the box. Saliss blinked at itand then burst outughing. Wilovan and Ratici craned their heads to see. Erin grinned. That was the thing. She got Saliss.

 In short order, the Drake strutted around the inn, now with a box on his private parts. It was just a box, but it had one notable addition.

 Warning: contains small nuts.

 Only her. Chaldion had never tried that. Saliss keptughing about it and in a fine humor, found Erin sitting him down.

 Hey, hows it been? Sorry, I cant stick around long; I have this thing with Mavi. Have you met Mavi?

 Who? I cant say I have. Say, I heard you were involved in a riot.

 Saliss eyes twinkled. Inside, his good humor over the box faded. Erins face fell.

 Yeah. They were everywhere. Hold on, can I get you anything to eat? Or ratherIshkr!

 As the two sat and Saliss ordered breakfast, he talked with Erin about yesterday. Mrsha sat at a table next to them, eagerly bouncing up and down in her seat. She was getting a cheese-and-bacon souffl. 

 Its all puffy and hot. Souffls are the only thing that doesnt keep well. You want one? Or just your sd?

 Erin presented the puffy souffl-in-a-cup to Mrsha. The Gnoll picked up the spoon and dug into the fluffy breakfast with delight. Erin turned to Saliss.

 Mrsha had a scare this morning. Shes still being punished, but this is also to cheer her up.

 Whats the punishment, then?

 The [Alchemist] eyed Mrsha eating the souffl. Ratici instantly ordered one for his table and Wilovan doubled the request. Erin smiled.

 No cake for dessert.

 Ah, the worst of things! So you outrioted a riot by beating them all to the ground with your fists?

 The Drake found that amusing. Even if his memory of yesterday made the smile artificial. Erin sighed.

 It was that or let them kill the [Lords]. Who were stupid. But thats this entire thing. Tell me about Pass. I heardthe riots werent as bad. But um. I heard thats because Chaldion put down the riots. Hard?

 The Drake toyed with his fork. He felt a hot sh in his chest and smiled at Erin.

 Oh, you know Chaldion. Everythings a war for him. There were only a few thousand [Guards] and [Soldiers] kicking peoples teeth in. Literally. I sold a few teeth-regrowing potions. Broken bonesI think they beat a few childrenexcuse me, troublemakersunconscious. But thats Chaldion! You should ask him about it.

 Erins face went still. She saw Saliss eating the food he didnt really taste.

 I will. Heordered that?

 He winked at her.

 Everything to keepw and order, right? Hey, this is great, by the way.

 The Drake gobbled at his food, but the [Innkeeper] wasnt fooled. In a way, they were too much alike. Erin watched Saliss eat for a second.

 Think I should kick Chaldion in the butt when hees into the inn? Nah, Id probably break his tail or something. How about I beat him ten times in a row at chess? I can do it. Hes not as good as he thinks he is, Skills or not.

 The [Alchemist] looked up. He blinked at Erin and then he guffawed. Saliss pped at his knee as Mrsha began to giggle. He must haveughed for at least a minute because everyone saw him on the ground, rolling around with the box. When Saliss finally got up, he was actually smiling.

 Would you? Can you do that?

 The [Innkeeper] just grinned at Saliss and winked back.

 I can probably do twenty. If I really put him off his game. How about this? Umokay, I can challenge him to speed-chess, which hes bad at. His [Path to Victory] helps, but he cant keep using it in game after game. And I can win even if he sees one path. But once I beat him four times, you can like, I dunno, run up behind me and start waving a sign and counting how many times he loses, see

 Heughed and didnt know he needed that until he did. Erin sat with Saliss. After theugher, she asked.

 How bad was it, really?

 Thoughtfully, Saliss looked at her. He had resolved not toin. But with Erinthe Drake wavered. Still, he shook his head. Onieva was his secret. And he trusted almost no one with it.

 Ididnt see much of it. I was in myboratory, making potions. Those faerie flowers are giving me lots of trouble, by the way.

 Oh?

 Yeah. Xif doesnt have any to experiment on except the one, butwellhe said the same thing. Theyre magically potent, but I feel like Im missing something. Something about their natures. Its just a hunch, but mind telling me how you got them?

 Er. Yes?

 Saliss sighed. But he had expected that. He was about to ask Erin about these Humans [Lords] when someone called Erins name.

 Erin Solstice. You have a lesson to learn! Stop having breakfast ande on!

 Mavi had been waiting in Erins room the entire time Erin had gone down to persuade Saliss to box his genitalia. Now, she came downstairs. Erin stood up.

 Im sorry, Mavi! I forgot! Saliss, I have to go.

 Thats fine. Just promise me youll make Chaldion cr

 Saliss spotted the fiery-haired young woman. She didnt notice him; she was haranguing Erin. The Drake [Alchemist] stabbed himself in the mouth with his fork. His eyes bulged.

 Mavi?

 The fire burnt away day by day. But how beautifully it died.

 -

 

 Mrsha ate her souffl. It was fluffy and delicious. She was thus in the best of moods as her minder for the day arrived.

 Sorry Imte. Vismas family wanted to walk her to the door. And I forgot it was moved to right next to the Adventurers Guild. I mean, its closer, but I went the wrong wayhere they are! Mrsha! Ekirra and Visma are here!

 Hey! Mrsha threw up her paws and scampered towards her friends. She saw a shy Gnoll and Drake poking around Drassis legs. Ekirra went over to Mrsha at once, but both he and Visma wereshy today.

 This was not the first time theyd visited The Wandering Inn by far. But today they were reserved, and Mrsha was confused for a good minute until she saw them staring. Then she knew why. They looked at Erin as she made Mavi drag her up the stairs. The silly [Innkeeper] was the same. But the way Mrshas two friends looked at her was different. Mrsha saw it in their eyes.

 Awe. They were not the only ones. A group of Humans from Earth were breakfasting and looking at Erin surreptitiously. As Drassi tried to herd the children towards the [Garden of Sanctuary], which was their approved y-area, Mrsha heard Troy and Leon talking to the others.

 Dude. We were hiding in a shop the entire time. You said Erin charged them?

 We all saw it. She went straight into them! She got stabbed, but she had a potion and Bird was shooting people in the legs and they actually broke up one of the crowds! Twice!

 Rose was looking wide-eyed at Erins back. It was the same look theyd had after the Rock Crab incident. Only, magnified.

 Miss Erin is cool.

 Ekirra informed Mrsha. Visma just peered at Erins back as the [Innkeeper] was finally dragged upstairs with a wail. It was hard to conte the two Erins. But Mrsha had seen both. Rather proudly, she signed at her friendswho could understand her hand-signalsthat Erin had always been cool.

 The y date in the inn was, for once, without reservation on the parts of Ekirra and Vismas parents. Erin had found both families during the riots. And more notablystopped a riot around Vismas house that had threatened to burn down her home.

 She was invisible. And then she appeared and told the people go away or else. And then she went bang! With the pan and Mr. Goblin. And Miss Minotaur.

 Visma ryed the entire event to Ekirra and Mrsha; she had been there. Mrsha had been in the garden and only heard some of it. Mrsha was nodding proudly. She made a triumphant fist on Erins behalf. Then paused; Ekirra was waving a paw for attention.

 My dad says Miss Erin was lucky no one was killed. He says she could have made things worse.

 The Gnoll boysment made Mrsha frown. She folded her paws and thensince she had to use them tomunicateunfolded them.

 Erin did good! She saved Vismas home. And yours!

 No one burned down our homes. My father says people got hurt when Miss Erin stopped the riots. Badly. Some had to go to the [Healers].

 Ekirras parroting of his fathers opinion offended Mrsha to the core. She glowered at him as he yed with some flowers in the grass where they were sitting. Drassi was lounging, reading a book; she didnt seem aware of the moralistic debate urring and assumed they were just ying.

 Erin did nothing wrong. The riots were wrong! She should have hurt them more. Bird should have shot their arms and legs so they hurt no one again.

 The Drake and Gnoll child looked at Mrshas furious face. Now Mrsha thought of itshe grew angrier and angrier about the riots. As she had been yesterday.

 Vismas short tail waved uncertainly in the grass. After a second, the Drake girl spoke, her voice tinged with uncertain certainty.

 No. Because that would be wrong. Bad people hurt each other. Erin shouldnt hurt people.

 But she saved your house! And what about the Workers?

 Mrsha furiously pointed out. Visma had nothing to say to that. Ekirra waved his paw again.

 My dad says

 He flinched at Mrshas scowl, but went on determinedly.

 He says that the Antinium were dangerous too. They marched.

 Not all of them. Workers got hurt!

 Some had died. The two children hadnt known that. They went still as Mrsha got up. She glowered at them and decided it wasnt their faults. She had to show them.

 Hey, Mrsha, dont go into the jungle! Remember you got your fur full of burrs when you went in there!

 Drassizily shouted at Mrsha as she led the two others over the hill. The Drake yawned andy back in the sunlight. Meanwhile, Mrsha led the children down the hill to the edges of the dome.

 The door was waiting for them. Ekirra and Visma drew back doubtfully.

 Were not supposed to leave. Well get in trouble.

 Visma peeked out through the door. There was ahumming sound. A wooden hallway. Mrsha waved at them, signaling for quiet.

 Workers had died during the riot. But Visma and Ekirra hadnt known. Mrsha doubted their parents had been awareor cared.

 After all, who cared for Worker casualties? No one said it. Olesms newspaper had illustrations of the destruction, counts of people injured, hurt, dead, arrestedbut the Antinium were only mentioned as The ck Tide, sweeping through the city in a mass.

 No one spoke of the Workers whod been cut into pieces or smashed and killed and left to die by angry people. Angry people who pretended to be normal the next day.

 But some people did not forget.

 The ce Mrsha led her friends was a new part of the inn. A new wing, off the kitchen-side. It had not been part of Lytes original ns. But it had been funded and paid for by Xrn. And conceived of by Erin and Pawn.

 The humming in the air was louder as the children crept forwards. Ekirras ears perked up and even Visma heard it as multiple voices. And as they moved towards a room where light spilled from behind two double doors, they saw.

 Antinium. They knelt, or stood, in a room designed for them. It was simple, adorned by color. Pictures on the wall. Each one unique. This ce was a copy of a room in the Antinium Hive. And in itstanding behind an altar stood a [Priest].

 The humming came from him as he swung the censer. It was not a single-minded dronebut nor was it music. It was meaningful, wordless.

 Religion.

 Now, Pawn bent. In front of him were about a dozen Workers. They were allwounded. Or they had been. Mrsha saw one Worker had no antennae. Anothers carapace had been cracked in multiple ces.

 The Workers knelt there, as Pawn put down his censer. Two of his hands were sped in prayer. Now, the other two offered something with reverence to the first Worker. A bowl.

 It did not contain food. Rather, it had small sections. Each one with a different color of paint. The Workers hands trembled as he slowly epted the bowl. Slowlyso slowly, a finger dipped into the paint.

 We pray for the souls of those Workers who have died. Let them rest in Heaven. For the livingwe continue on. Despite suffering. To make earth as it is in Heaven. Do not forget. Do not give in. You are not alone.

 Pawns voice was quiet as he walked down the line of Workers, offering another bowl. The children heard a sound.

 Click. The Painted Antinium standing around the room made the sound. It made Ekirra jump; Visma sucked on her thumb. But it was not a harsh sound. There was something beautiful here. Mysterious.

 Yellow Stters stood at the back of the room, waiting. The others looked to him. One who had been there.

 Heaven. Something worth dying for. And moreworth living for. Pawns hands were gentle as he blessed the first Worker. His [Benediction of Hope] made the Antinium rise. But more than that, the [Priest] prayed, and the Antinium prayed with him. For the dead.

 For better days.

 -

 The children crept away as the Workers painted themselves. Shining with the drying paint, they left the chapel made only for them. A Worker with green pools of blood, as if symbolizing the other Workers. A Worker with a white g on his chest.

 It did not mean pain was gone. The two Gnolls and the Drake saw Pawn splitting from the others as they marched back to the Hive, bearing food with them. He paused, and entered his rooms.

 A [Princess] slipped in after him. Mrsha scowled as Ekirra prowled forwards. She was pretty sure they didnt want to see

 wasnt there for them. I couldnt bring them back. I tried. But one died. It wasnt enough.

 Pawn and Lyte sat in the room together. Mrsha heard him speaking, his voice low. Filled with

 The Antinium [Priest] looked older as he sat by Lyte. She was holding his hand. Crying for him. He held her hand with his own, as if it were the only things keeping him anchored in this world.

 Ekirra backed away. Mrsha looked another moment. Then she fled.

 These were the things Mrsha saw. And her two friends saw something their parents had never conceived of.

 Drassi wondered why Visma burst into tears. She thought Ekirra had been throwing rocks at her or something.

 -

 Not all the Antinium painted themselves. Not all prayed. On the roof of the inn, now with three floors, they built a tower.

 It would be tall. It would be fortified. No random Hobgoblin with a sword would destroy it. Itmight have a ballista. Lyte and Erin had sort of vetoed that one.

 But the Workers thereworked. Building the tower up.

 Slowly, though. Usually, the worked with a determined energy that meant they didnt race, but didnt stop until a job was done. Now, though, they worked moreslowly. Taking their time, passing objects to each other.

 It was a new concept. There were more than there needed to be. Most of them were actually the Archer Workers.

 Archer J3 passed a piece of stone to Archer B23, who had some mortar which the other Worker carefully applied. With one hand, the other [Archer] applied it. And with his two free hands, he slowly, ever-so-gingerly dipped a little bit of fufu into some spicy beef soup.

 Fufu was gluten-free, if you made it withoutgluten. All of Erins agonizing over bread, wheat, and so on, had been solved by Imani in three seconds when shed heard of the issue. Now, the Antinium ate. And the one responsible for the food on the job, insisted on the slow pacehe was named Bird.

 Why did Workers die, Hunter Bird?

 Archer A11the third of his designationasked that question. His unit had seen highbat, but there were enough Autonomous Workers to fill the seventeen archer groups now formed in Liscors Hive. Thanks to Anand and Belgrade, the Antinium died less.

 But they still died. Every head turned to Bird. He sat above them, in his tower as it was being built around him. The [Bird Hunter] watched the sky. He looked down at them.

 Why do you ask why?

 The Workers looked up at him. Bird sat there, legs dangling happily. He stared at some birds out of his range. His voice was cheerful.

 Bad things happen. They always happen, like good things. Sometimes people do bad things. Sometimes people do good things. This is so. I have observed it.

 The other Workers thought on this. Another Workers spoke.

 Is there a Heaven, Hunter Bird?

 I do not know. Ask Pawn. Or Yellow Stters. He has been there. So probably?

 Is Heaven nice?

 I do not know. I do not care.

 The Workers thought on this. They were not ordinary Workers, with no names. But neither were they Painted. They looked up at Bird. And atst, one asked a question they often asked.

 What is good, Bird?

 The Worker thought about this. And each time his answer was different. Mainly because he forgot all the other answers. After a while, he spoke.

 Good is a feeling. Good is not happy. Happysts a short time. Good feels good even when happy is gone.

 They thought about this. After a while, one raised a hand.

 What is happy, Bird?

 The Worker sighed. He wondered when theyd stop asking him questions. But this was alright.

 -

 And then the important guest entered the inn. At first, Montressa and Bezale didnt notice.

 The two Wistram [Mages] sat together, having a meal at a table. Beza poked her deting souffl with a dubious expression. Montressa was halfway through hers.

 Beza. Have you been thinking what Ive been thinking?

 I doubt it, Montressa.

 The [Aegiscaster] sighed. Beza wasdifficult. As bad as Ulinde, who wouldnt sit still for five minutes, or Isceil, who had been rather arrogant and grating, or Palt who enjoyed being difficult, or[Mages] were hard in general. They tended towards unique personalities.

 Master Hedault has a meeting scheduled with Miss Solstice. Today.

 And?

 The Minotauress dug into her meal atst. Montressa exhaled.

 I think she forgot. Even Miss Mavi. What with the riots and all. Neither onese down from whatever theyre doing upstairs.

 The [Spellscribe] raised one eyebrow.

 I see. Thats rather unfortunate. Master Hedault is known to be extremely punctual.

 I know. But what ifhear me out, Bezawhat if we reminded Erin?

 Sensible?

 The Minotauress gave Montressa a nk look. The [Aegiscaster] waved a hand; shed taken toorge a bite.

 Sorry. We reminded her and offered to go in her ce? Oror even got Master Hedault toe here?

 Herpanion gave her an odd look. Beza was still a bit sweaty; shed been working out with Grimalkins weights, having developed something of apulsion in that regard. She rolled her shoulders.

 Why?

 Because Master Hedault is one of the best [Enchanters] in the region. Because Erin would think more kindly of us if she did.

 If youre expecting her to throw Palt under the wagon for us

 Not at all. And Im not asking for help with the Earthers. Beza, think about it. If we tter Master Hedault, and we can do thathell remember us. Right?

 So?

 Master Hedault. The best [Enchanter]. Youre a [Spellscribe]. Your sses are rted.

 Hmf. True. It would be good to learn from him, but hed never teach anyone.

 Thats not the point. Master Hedault will probably want toe to the inn anyways, once he hears Master Pelt is now close enough to have his works enchanted. Right?

 Slowly, Bezale raised one thick eyebrow.

 Aha. And Master Smith Pelt is one of the best [cksmiths] in the region.

 Pass will certainly want his works, even if hes not based in the city. Which is convenient because we happen to be close to Pass.

 The Minotauress flicked a finger and sted a fly out of the air with a little gust of wind.

 And Invrisil.

 And Celum.

 And a number of [Lords] are now seeking Erin for trade rights. You know, Beza. I was a secretbroker back in Wistram.

 Im quite aware, Montressa. But I see your point. You had connections.

 The [Aegiscaster] smiled. She sat back in her seat.

 We failed when it came to getting Erin out of her inn. But I think that might be a good thing. Think about it, Beza. This inn has ess to two major cities. Thatsa lot of influential people. And both are trade hubs.

 Beza slowly exhaled.

 Hm. Youre proposingwhat? The same thing Beatrice and you did?

 Wellwere not exactly popr at Wistram. And I do know how it goes. Its all about making connections. Introducing people to people. And we know the person with the magic door. Why dont we just nip up to Erin, offer to greet Master Hedault and?

 The Minotauress hmmed and leaned forwards. They had beenrgely aimless ofte. But this was something she understood. Liked.

 Neither one noticed the gaggle of Drakes and Gnollsing in from Pass. Many were wide-eyed. But here weretourists.

 One, with a smart cap, adjusted it and looked around, murmuring. Another, a Drake with a leafy staff stared around, blinking. A Gnoll with a bow on his back and travelling geara tribal Gnoll on whose fur was stamped a silver crescentor fangsniffed the air.

 Excuse me, Miss. Do you know where the owner of this inn, a, ah, Erin Solstice is?

 The Gnoll with the cap strode up to the nearest person. That happened to be Lyte, still a bit red-eyed, but back to work.

 OhErin? Im sorry, shes personally upied. But I can help you. Are you looking for a ce to stay? Directions? We can transport you to other cities

 The Gnoll gave Lyte an abashed smile. Awkwardly, he fumbled for his belt.

 Im sorry. I should have introduced myselfoh

 He dropped the bit of paper and several coins. Lyte bent to pick it up, but with flustered apologies, the Gnoll scrambled to pick it up. She felt bad for him, as, blushing, he stood upright.

 Sorry, sorry! Let me begin. Im ah, sent here on behalf of mypany. Izrils Wonders. Im not sure if youve heard of us?

 Lyte had to dash his hopeful look. The Gnoll sighed, despondent.

 What is it? Can I get you a drink?

 He was dusty, Lyte realized. The Gnoll brightened.

 Thatd be wonderful, Miss. Im actually here on behalf of our group with an offer. You see, weve heard of this wondrous inn. And wed love to expand our destinations. Im forgetting myself again. You see, mypany takes people to each Walled City. Shows them the sights.

 Oh! How delightful! And you want to put Liscor on that list?

 Well, Invrisil, in point of fact, Miss. Wed love to discuss the matter if we may.

 The [Princess] smiled. Her mind began racing at once.

 I dont think Erin would have a problem with that. Ill let her know as soon as possible. It might be a little bit, but shes sure to be interested. Can I offer you something to eat and drink while you wait? Whats your name?

 The Gnoll pped his forehead. He took off his cap, abashed.

 I forget myself. Im no [Negotiator], Miss. I was just closest when I got my orders. Im just a [Coachman], me. Not sure why they wanted me, but were not the biggestpanyFerris, Miss. Ferris Seftpaw. Oh behalf of mypany, Id love to make a deal with Miss Erin Solstice. Even offer her a free trip. We can get you to a Walled City within a week from one to another.

 Really? How?

 Trade secrets, Miss Lyte. Well, I say trade secrets, but really, its just good wheels, magical horses, and

 The Gnoll took the drink eagerly as he told Lyte about the fantasticpany. Meanwhile, the Gnoll with the bow on his back had found Ishkr, the first Gnoll on staff.

 Excuse me. I seek Krshia Silverfang. I was told this door leads me toLiscor. This is Liscor, yes?

 He had an ent, a far more growling tone, with connected words. Ishkr blinked at him.

 Er. Yes. The door connects to Liscor. The same one you came through.

 The Gnolls brows crossed. He nced sidelong at Ishkr, as if believing he was being tricked. Ishkr gestured.

 I can send you to Liscor right now. This way, please. Krshia is probably at City Hall or tending to her shop.

 City Hall?

 Shes a Councilwoman of Liscor.

 The Gnolls jaw dropped slightly. He quickened his steps, suddenly full of questions. Ishkr sighed, but bothersome customers came with the job.

 Neither one was the important guest. And important was a rtive term. Montressa and Beza rose, on their important work.

 Lets go to Master Hedault now. We can show Erin our initiative.

 It was the kind of thing that would have earned them des in Wistram if they pulled it off. Beza was nodding. They hurried out of the inn, towards Invrisil, past the Drake with a leafy staff.

 She was.interesting. Her clothing was sparser than most Drakes. Rather than being seductive in any intention though, they gave her the look that she was going to bushwhack or do something that involved dirt. And dirt did cover her clothes; not that she was dirty, but it had been worked into fabric from much exposure.

 Shed tied something interesting around the top of her staff. It was, in fact, a delicatettice of cobwebs. It seemed incongruous, as if a strange spider had woven all around the top of her staff. But if you looked closer, you realized her clothing, the staff

 It was all spiders silk. Some dyed, but nheless. The Drake had been staring around the inn, first in puzzlement, noting the weird Drake with a box, the two [Mages], the crowdsshe didnt seem at home with anything there.

 But she had migrated over to the wall, as if drawn. Now, she murmured.

 Oh! What power runs here. What power. Magic. But what is this? Thisthis is strange. This calls to me. I am a humble traveller. What waits for me here?

 She put a w out, gingerly. And jerked it back as a door appeared. The Drake stared, wide-eyed at the door. Then she put a w on the handle and opened it.

 The [Garden of Sanctuary] opened for her. The [Druid] hesitated at the opening.

 How magnificent. A sacred ce! Here?

 She stared about the inn, marveling. No one really paid any attention. Lyte was listening to Ferris clumsy upsell. Erin was upstairs, listening to lectures on how to negotiate. Numbtongue was making boxes full of hidden weapons.

 The Drake hesitated at the opening. She touched at it and recoiled. There was abarrier. She frowned. Then she stood back and bowed with her staff. Ishkr, passing, gave her a strange look, but he was busy. The Drake spoke to the open doorway.

 I am a humble traveller. I mean no harm. I beg entrance; I am Shassa Weaverweb, granted my name by those who still walk the wild green. May I enter?

 She closed her eyes. After about two minutes where nothing at all happened, she cracked one eyelid open. Shassa gently felt at the opening.

 The barrier was gone. The Drake blinked, then smiled, ducked her head, and entered the [Garden of Sanctuary]. Then she gasped and stared.

 Magnificent.

 -

 Mrsha and Ekirra and Visma were ying, now tearless and chasing around Mrshas magic ball. They wereughing and running up and down the hill as Drassi snoozed. At first, they did not see the Drake with the staff.

 That was because she walked about the edge of the dome, looking at the mushrooms in the loamy soil, marveling at the pond. A pair of Fortress Beavers backed up warily from her, but the Drake murmured and bowed and they soon were nuzzling her, letting her check their scarred flesh with dismay.

 You poor things! I am sorry. This is not my forte. Web-cousins did this to you? I am sorry. They can be cruel. On their behalf, I will do all I can. How manyoh. So few. But this ce is surely safe. Can I do aught for you?

 The Drake bent her head. The Fortress Beavers nibbled on her staff and she gently lifted it.

 I see. But how strange. Someone has

 Her head swung. The Drake frowned.

 Low-level. Butbut I see a wild-walkers touch. Is someone?

 Mrsha was running over the hill, pursuing the magic ball, when she felt something. She looked around.

 Are you here, friend?

 Mrsha looked left, at Visma. But the Drake girl,ughing and breathless, hadnt said that. Mrsha cocked her head. She ventured a tentativeyes?

 It was a voice in her head. Mrsha felt the impression of a smile. And then, as she crested the hill, Ekirra came racing back towards her.

 Mrsha! Mrshamrshamrsha! Who is that?

 He pointed. Mrsha ran up on all fours and saw

 A Drake with light clothing and a staff of cobwebs. The Drake had been looking in their direction. Her eyes and Mrshas met at the same time. The Drakes eyes widened.

 You? You are a child!

 Mrsha stared. The voice was in her head. The Drakes jaw dropped.

 A wild-walker? So young? Ahbut you have no name! You

 Mrsha backed up. She did not know this Drake. The voice in her head rmed her. She turned. Ekirra and Visma looked at her, just curious.

 Who is that, Mrsha?

 I dont know. Stranger.

 Mrsha signed. Both nced down at the Drake again. They looked at Mrsha, suddenly rmed.

 Hello? Child? Are you she? I apologize for intruding!

 The Drake was waving up at them. Mrsha backed away from her.

 Shethe Drake was calling out with words and the voice in Mrshas head. Mrsha felt, instinctively, that she should trust this Drake. But that just made the other part of Mrsha, which was sensible and Lyte-like, very worried.

 Lets go to Miss Drassi.

 Ekirra tugged on Vismas ws and Mrshas. The three backed up. The Drake slowly approached, lifting one hand.

 Im sorry if I intruded. But I mean you no harm! I swear by the webs!

 Mrsha paused. The voice in her head echoed the Drakes sentiments. And it was so sincere. It was like she had cast a [Truth Spell]. Slowly, Mrsha stopped.

 Mrsha

 Ekirra whined. Mrsha ignored them. Slowly, she walked down the hill.

 If it had been anyone else, Mrsha would have hesitated. But this certainty was like gravity itself. In her chest, Mrsha knew

 The Drake smiled. She looked down as Mrsha stared at her.

 Hello, friend.

 Mrsha waved. The Drakes face was puzzled.

 I am Shassa Weaverweb. May I know your name, keeper of thisgarden?

 She waved her staff around. Mrsha pointed at herself and looked around vaguely for her notes. The Drake was puzzled again.

 Can you not speak?

 No. Mrsha sighed. This was amon problem with strangers. She always needed someone to exin

 The Drakes eyes widened.

 You cannot?

 Mrshas head jerked up. The Drake peered at her. Slowly, she touched her breast.

 I heard you nheless, small friend. Tell me.

 Mrsha thought her name. Tentatively. She saw Shassas mouth curl upwards.

 Ah, Mrsha, right?

 The Gnoll child jumped. Shassaughed.

 I can hear you! We two are simr. You see?

 Mrsha almost did. She narrowed her eyes. Shassa felt her wariness and hurried to exin.

 I am sorry. But I came here. I was told this was a shortcut around the Bloodfields, butI was not used to Pass! Too many people. Too much noise. And then I was here and I felt this.

 She shuddered. Mrsha almost felt her confusion, being lost. The Gnoll nodded. The Drake bent.

 I amah, a bit lost. I was told I could go to Invrisil, you see. By magic? But I went through one door and I did not see the other.

 The little Gnoll rolled her eyes. Visitors. They never listened. They were so

 She caught the Drake woman frowning at her.

 I did listen! What? The door goes to Invrisil? Wellthat Drake didnt exin fully!

 It must have been one of the new staff members. Mrsha huffed. Lyte had hired a new batch and they kept making mistakes. Shassas eyes flickered.

 Oh. I see. So the door goes to Invrisil? Six silver?

 She felt at her pouch.

 Hm. Well, I have that. Thank you, little friend. I am in your debt.

 She bowed. Mrsha felt quite pleased at this and nodded. Shassaughed and the two rxed. The Drake turned, heading back the way shede.

 I am on a mission for my city. Thank you, wild-friend. If time permits, I will call on you. With permission!

 She spoke sidelong to Mrsha. The Gnoll looked up, entranced by this peerless method ofmunication. She tugged on Shassas leg. Wait! Stay a while! No one had ever understood Mrsha like this, not even Urksh or Ryoka! How did Shassa understand? Who was she?

 Mrsha felt like she should know. And the Drakes eyes certainly crinkled up. Then she frowned.

 Dear Mrsha, has no one taught you of your ss? How can you not know me?

 She listened. The Drake and Gnoll stood there, as voices floated down from the hill and Drassis sleepy one replied, then began to wake up. Shassa frowned.

 Whats that? Really? By yourself? How extraordinary! And so young!

 Mrsha nodded proudly and then frowned at the implicit slight. Shassaughed, and it was a merry sound.

 I apologize, Mrsha! You are no doubt quite talented. I should exinI will exin! You see, you have entered with a pact. You are a Tribal Gnoll, arent you? They are granted the honors far more than City Gnolls. But you must have met with a sign. Some great event of nature.

 The Frost Faeries. The Goblin Lord. Shassas face froze. Her head dipped with shock, then sorrow.

 Oh. Little one. You have seen such terrible things. But this sslisten to me. You are one of us. I go now to meet a great keeper. In Invrisil. But upon my return, I promise you

 Mrsha! Who is that?

 A voice rang out from the top of the hill. Mrsha and Shassa spun. Drassi, bleary-eyed and followed by Ekirra and Visma, stared down at Shassa. She of course, knew everyone allowed in the [Garden of Sanctuary], like Mrsha. She did not know Shassa.

 Hey! You! Get away from Mrsha!

 The clear rm and fear in Drassis tone caused the older Drake to back up. Shassa held up her staff and free hand.

 I am sorry! I wasnt aware

 Mrsha, get back! Wheres Numbtongue? Erin, Erin!

 Drassi began shouting. rmed, Shassa fled towards the door. Mrsha wavered. She tried to wave her arms, exin, but Drassi couldnt read her thoughts.

 Shassa fled into the inn. Drassis shouting followed her. Mrsha ran through the doorway as the Drake sprinted down the hill.

 Lyte! Numbtongue! Help! She was in the garden!

 Heads turned in themon room of the inn. Shassa looked around.

 NoI was just lost! I

 Toote. Drassi, meaning well, sprinted into the inn after the Drake. Mrsha tried to grab her arm, but the [Gossip] shouted as Lyte turned.

 Intruder in the inn! rm!

 This time the effect was immediate. Shassa opened her mouth and saw Lyte go for her sword. A pair of Antinium Soldiers sitting at the bar surged to their feet. She backed up.

 No, please

 Erin Solstice and Mavi surged down the stairs. Numbtongue leapt over them andnded with his sword drawn. The neers to the inn screamed. In the chaos, Shassa ran from the Hobgoblin, the Antinium, and the angry [Princess] with a sword.

 That was understandable. Mrsha ran too. She weaved between the legs as all the inns defenders tangled up with the panicked crowds. Drassi was shouting an exnation, Lyte was looking for Mrsha and telling Shassa to stop. Erin was demanding to know what was happening.

 Help me! Oh, Ancestors, theyre going to kill me!

 Like a beacon, Mrsha heard a thought, full of panic. The Gnoll dove through the crowds, dodging feet. She found Shassa. The Drake looked at her. Mrsha pointed.

 To the door! Erin would probably punch Shassas brains out of her head and Numbtongue might actually kill her! The Drake fled as Mrsha dragged the hallway door open.

 Enough!

 A bellow from behind Mrsha. She felt Erins aura freeze the entire crowd. Shassa stumbled; Mrsha dragged her towards the door. She needed to set it to Invrisil!

 How? How

 The Drake picked up Mrsha. The Gnoll swiveled the dial. At that moment, Numbtongue came charging through the door and saw Shassa holding Mrsha.

 Stop! Put her down!

 The Hobgoblin charged them with his sword. Shassa turned white. Mrsha yanked open the door. The Drake ran. Numbtongue hesitated, sword drawn, afraid of hitting Mrsha.

 Im sorry!

 The Drake fled. The Hobgoblin pursued her into a room full of Humans. Half of them saw the Redfang Warrior with the de and reacted like Humans did. Numbtongue cursed, but Shassa was out the door and running. And by the time he got freeshe was in the crowds. He saw the Humans pointing and screaming and cursed.

 After about five minutes, Shassas frantic fright slowed. Only then did she stop and gasp to catch her breath. And then, the Gnoll child shed been holding under her arm finally got her attention.

 Oh no.

 The Drake stared down at Mrsha. The Gnoll child stared solemnly up at the Drake. They shared a thought.

 They were dead. Mrsha had already had one bad incident with the drawers this morning. Shassashe pictured Numbtongue lopping off her head.

 The Drake turned pale under her scales.

 I didnt mean it! Lets exin! NoIll bring you back!

 That was a very sensible thing to do. Mrsha wavered. But she knew that Erin was about to destroy all of Invrisil to find her. She nodded solemnly. Shassa took a breath.

 Im sorry. I didnt thinkof course it was a sacred ce! I will apologize. Justdont let them kill me, please?

 They stood together. People stared at the oundish Drake talking to the Gnoll child who never made a response back. A few began looking around for the Watch themselves. But Mrsha pointed the way theyde, where someone was indeed yelling at the top of her lungs.

 They began to move back. Shassa caught her breath, muttering exnationsor at least trying to think up things that wouldnt get her killed in an instant. Mrsha nervously tried to think of how to exin how shed known Shassa was nice.

 Was it all coincidence? Of course not. There were other important events taking ce. Other confluences which were fateful, or just mere chance that melded together. But Shassa had not met Mrsha by ident. They were two of a kind.

 And soperhaps inevitably, as both walked back, full of trepidation, they turned down a street. The Drake and Gnolls heads rose. They nced at each other. And then they stared at a crowd, shouting ahead of them.

 The people of Invrisil surrounded something. There was screaming, shouts for the Watch. Mrsha and Shassa pushed forwards. Mrsha felt something. Blinding rage. She heard someone begging for someone else to stop, a thud.

 And then she saw a man. His beard was wild, his robes covered with nature, poo, and other things. It was ratty, and he himself smelled likenature. He had a staffnot decorated like Shassas.

 Well, unless you counted blood. The man was standing over a figure on the ground. Another womana young wife or loverwas trying to pull him back.

 The young man on the other hand wasnt moving. Hed been beaten bloody, and the man was kicking him. A horse was standing to one side, blood on the fur. Mrsha saw spurs on the young mans boots.

 Stop! Someone call the Watch!

 The man ignored him. Quite deliberately, Nalthaliarstrelous, keeper of Magnolia Reinharts gardens, raised his staff and began to beat the nearly-unconscious young man. People tried to pull him off and he began toy about him with his staff.

 Shassa Weaverweb and Mrsha du Marquin stared at Nalthaliarstrelous. The man was hurling curses, roaring like an animal as the crowd backed up. He was preparing to swing again when his head turned.

 What?

 He looked up and met their eyes. And Mrsha felt the same shock of recognition as the first time shed seen him. Now she understood. Nalthaliarstrelous lowered his staff. He looked at Shassa. And she bowed. Mrsha saw the man look at her. And she finally, finally got it as she heard his voice in her mind.

 Well met again, little friend.

 The man bowed. He, Shassa, Mrsha

 They were all [Druids].

 -

 [Druids] were rude. Not just individually; as a ss. There was something about [Druids] that shed with most other sensibilities. Of course, they were focused around nature, like [Shamans], but where [Shamans] could be said to work and respect the natural world, [Druids] lived with it. They cared.

 Sorude. The kind of rude that ranged from petting your cat since the cat was okay with it, to rummaging about in your gardens and making alterations without your consent, to causing a sinkhole to swallow a [Lord]s mansion when he refused to stop overhunting.

 That kind of rude. They were perfectly respectful of course; their definition of whom to respect just differed from most people. And anyways, there were other groups far, far ruder than [Druids].

 One of thest of them stood now in Magnolia Reinharts estates. Yawning, he pointed. And a magical carriage, garishly pink, turned into a crimson red coach, highlighted by ck and gold on the trim. It looked fast.

 Grand Mage Eldavin! Lady Reinhart was most insistent about the color scheme!

 A man protested. Reynold, the [Butler], was holding a tray of drinks and snacks as he followed Teriarch about. The Dragon ignored him.

 Pink affronts my eyes. She wants me to repair it? She can paint itter. Lets see. Whats wrong with this thing? Hm. Hmah, a failing conversion spell for these stupid mana crystals.

 The Grand Mage poked around dismissively, sighing and grumbling. He didnt like working with enchantments. And he was less than motivated. To amuse himself, he kept snacking, casually emzoning a few sigils of long-distant empires on the newly-painted coach. Reynold nced up and protested weakly again.

 Grand Magusperhaps you would consider relenting?

 About what?

 Meow. A loud yowl ofint came from above. Eldavin nced up. So did Reynold, with a pained look.

 Magnolia Reinhart owned cats. How many had never been ascertained until now, but she tolerated them about as much as they tolerated her. It was now clearand Reynold would bet on thisthat all eighteen in therge mansion were now stuck on the roof. They were hissing at the Dragon.

 He ignored them. Teriarch kicked around the carriage.

 Well, I bridged it. But the entire enchantments old. Someone needs to just recast the magic. Tell Reinhart that.

 Errecast, Grand Magus?

 Thats right. The wood is whats decaying. Build a new carriage, port the enchantment over. Im not doing it. What else did that brat want?

 The Dragon yawned a fifth time. Reynold felt sweat beading down his back as he followed the half-Elf around. Of course, Reynold knew.

 What exactly he knew was up for debate, but he wasnt an idiot. Still, he had exact instructions and this thankless job was mostly humoring Teriarch.

 I erbelieve Lady Reinhart would appreciate a few discreetscrying spellson some individuals. [Assassins], mainly.

 No.

 No, Grand Magus?

 Too much work. Too much interference. Im doing thishalf-hearted. Ill have some of that good wine now. And those annoying pests maye down.

 Teriarch pointed a finger. The cats, about to set up for another chorus of yowls, found themselves on top of the magical carriage. They leapt down, hissing or flipping their butts at Teriarch. He ignored them. Reynold stared.

 Instantaneous teleportation. A high-level [Mage] could in theory perform [Lesser Teleport] sub-vocally, even teleport a group like that. But a bunch of cats spread out on a rooftop to another point in a moment without proximity himself? That would be ahigh-level, dedicated teleportation expert.

 But he had also seen Teriarch physically reconstruct the destroyed Steel Golem, literally reshaping the metal and reanimating it while pocketing all thetest books in Magnolia Reinharts library. Now, the Dragon wanted popcorn.

 Withyeast. Yes, thats what that [Innkeeper] served me. Salt, butter, yeast. And where did I put that infernal device? Summon. I mean, er[Summon Object].

 Theptop popped into Teriarchs hands after he cast the spell. Reynold hurried into the kitchen. He needed a sit down.

 Magnolia Reinhart was out. She had not been in a good mood and was wise enough not to butt heads with Teriarch. He had been exceedingly amused by the news about the [Lords] and Erin Solstice, conveyed through her informantworks. The Dragon even chuckled about it as he yed Solitaire on theputer.

 Hah. As if youre the only one who can conduct trade deals, you little brat! That was so amusing. Ah, wellwheres my popcorn? The inn was faster than this!

 He shouted as a [Chef] in Magnolias kitchenbored over a stove. Teriarch was a menace.

 But not unkind. Since he had been here, Reynold couldnt help but notice that Bekia, the Gnoll [Maid] who had been sick ever since their sh with the [Assassins] had suddenly stopped puking. Shed taken many poisoned daggers, such that even their best healing potions and Magnolias [Healers] hadnt done more than slow the toxins in her systems. Magnolia herself had been arranging a visit to the Healer of Tenbault.

 But shed had a word with TeriarcherEldavin. And the Gnoll had looked better the next day. Reynold hurried back with a heaping bowl of popcorn. Teriarch took one bite, and pointed a horrified finger.

 The entire bowl caught on fire. Reynold saw the Dragon spit and gag.

 What was that?

 Yeast, sir!

 Thats not yeast! The other yeast, you fool!

 Anyways. Between the [Butler] running about, he nearly mmed into Sacra. The [Maid], who was one of their best disguise-experts, was heading in from Invrisil. She was dressed in the regr maid-uniform and looked exasperated.

 Reynold! What are you doing?

 I need yeast! Edible yeast, apparently!

 The [Maid] gave the [Butler] a look that suggested hed taken leave of his senses. She opened her mouth

 Pop.

 Both staggered. They were back in therge parlor. Teriarch waved a hand without looking up from theputer.

 I changed my mind. I shall have just the wine. And a good cheese to go with it. Make it one of the magical varieties.

 Reynold ran for it. Sacra just stared. She checked herself. She should not have been teleported. Not without a line of sight orhad he just grabbed her?

 The Dragon looked up after a second.

 What are you doing here?

 He stared at Sacra. The [Maid] bowed slowly.

 Master Eldavin?

 Who? Ohyes? What is it? Im not in the mood to entertain more of Reinharts requests. Ive already done enough!

 The Dragon snorted. He stretched out in thefy chair, ying with one hand and grumbling about uppity young [Ladies].

 It was a funny thing. In The Wandering Inn, the Dragon had been like thunder and lightning. Kindly, but there you were. Here, he was more retiring. This wasnt his first visit. Although Sacra had been a girl when she first remembered the Grand Magus visiting.

 Is there anything I can do for you, Grand Magus? Reynold is procuring your desired items.

 The [Maid] waited, hands folded behind her back. Teriarch nced up. For a second, his eyes sharpened.

 Do Iknow you? The butlers new. But your aurawere you a new employee?

 Reynold had been serving for a long time. Sacra chose her words carefully.

 I was a girl in the Reinhart employ, Master Eldavin. Perhaps you recall me from an earlier visit.

 Yes. Perhaps.

 The Dragons expression grew ufortable. Abruptly, he made theptop disappear. He sat back.

 Wheres Reinhart? Off, trying to stop this trade deal, Ill warrant? If shes so busy, I wont trouble her.

 Sacra began to panic at once. Her top orderall of their priorities were to keep Teriarch entertained and here. Magnolia would kill them if he disappeared.

 Nothat is to say, shes only out for the day, Lord TMagus Eldavin! Im sure she didnt want to bother you!

 Well, Ive already been here three days. If Reinharts busy, so am I. I still have to figure out how to construct a mice for thisthis game Ryoka Griffin showed me. And deal with all these [Messages]. Shoo!

 He waved at something in the air. Much like a cat. Sacra held her breath.

 Iperhaps we could offer you entertainment, Magus Eldavin? We have a quite splendid number of [Musicians] or [Bards] we could summon from Invrisil. There are evenyes, the yers of Celum! We could arrange a private y

 Ive seen them. Not interested. Maybe Ill go back and call ater time.

 The Dragon snorted. He began to rise and Sacra panicked. Later meantfar too long. Thest time he had been here had been over eight years ago.

 Lord Teriarchperhaps you could aid us? Theres a small issue in Invrisil!

 Desperately, she spoke. The Dragon looked up.

 Whats this? What issue?

 The [Maid] froze. But shed said it. So she went on in a rush before he could draw a magic circle in the rug.

 ErI was just in Invrisil. An urgent issue was sent for Lady Reinhart. One of the staffNalthaliarstrelous has gotten into an incident. Assault.

 That [Druid]? Someone jumped him? What, a Level 50 [Thug]? I swear I saw a high-level one aboutst time, but who attacks [Druids]? They carry moss, not gold!

 The Dragon raised his eyebrow incredulously. Sacra wiped at her brow as Reynold ran back in with twenty plus cheeses and as many vintages as his bag of holding could carry.

 No, Lord Teriarch. Actually Nalthaliarstrelous has apparently, er, beaten a young man half to death.

 Reynold winced. He was familiar with this. The Dragon just stared.

 Why?

 Apparently, the young man spurred his horse to the point it was injured. Nalthaliarstrelous hasa history of attacking pet owners for abuse.

 Of course. [Druids] dont stand for that sort of thing. Ill wager that young man got what he deserved. Time was, a [Druid] would shoot a [Poacher] with the arrows they left in animals.

 The Dragon leaned back. But he looked interested. Sacra nodded as Reynold set up hurriedly.

 Yes, Lord Teriarch. ButInvrisil hasws. Lady Reinhart will reimburse the injured party, of course, but the Watch and the [Mayor] are objecting. Strenuously. Nalthaliarstrelous actions are somewhat problematic.

 I suppose they are. Huh. Well, well. Hes quite respectful. Perhapsyes. Perhaps that would be an interesting conversation. Not that I dont approve of it, but I can speak with him. Ill do that.

 The half-Elf stood up. Reynold and Sacra looked at each other.

 Grand Magus? We can find Nalthaliarstrelous. Theres no need to

 Nonsense. I dont need help. Ill find him myself. One good scrying spellno. Im not spelling that name out. Ill just track his magical trail. Ill be back.

 Grand Magus, wait

 Toote. Pop went the half-Elf. He vanished. Reynold stood with a te full of exotic cheeses. Sacras mouth opened in horror. They looked at each other and ran.

 -

 [Druids] in the inn. They stood in the center of a gathering of onlookers. From afar, though. Guests sat at the tables, absorbing

 The ambiance. It took a particr guest of culture, to appreciate The Wandering Inns unique ambiance.

 But picture the scene. A Centaur was smoking near an open window, taking his leisure. The drinks were ready at hand. A Dwarf was having just a light alehe had workter. The air was filled with the smells of good food from the kitchen. An [Actor] was striding the stage.

 The sound of ttering dishes, muted voicesshouting from the ce with the three [Druids]. ssy. Well, a certain level of ss. A cold drink with ice cubes in w, and in the background, a Hobgoblin strumming on a guitar.

 Ambiance. And as you sipped, you could listen.

 kidnapped Mrsha! And why do you people keep walking into my Garden!? Its not supposed to be open to other people! And who are you? Youre that guy!

 An [Innkeeper] was screaming. The other guests peered at the three [Druids].

 One was a very nervous Drake with her webbed staff. Another, a little Gnoll who was really in trouble. And the third, a Human man with a wild beard polishing the staff which had been covered in drying blood. He didnt seem affected by the shouting.

 I am so sorry. Its just that I was lost and I was looking for someone. And the door was openI didnt mean to kidnap her!

 Shassa pointed at Mrsha. The Gnoll was trying to exin. She held up her deposition and Lyte snatched it. She read it, and red at Mrsha.

 Thats no excuse, young Miss! What did I tell you about strangers?

 Yeah! Stranger danger! Look at him! Hes likethe exact person you dont go with!

 Erin pointed at Nalthaliarstrelous. The [Druid] gave her an affronted look.

 Innkeeper. That child is one of us. We are [Druids]. We know each other.

 So much for subtlety. Some of the guests sat up. A Gnoll tipped his hat at his fellow and they took notes. A muscr Drake was hunched in a corner,ing up with a second theory.

 But it was that kind of mood. After Erin and Lyte tried not to throttle the [Druid]some kind of order reasserted itself.

 There were a few things to be mad about. And so, Erin made a list of priorities. She didnt even have time for Ferristhe Gnoll was politely shuffled off to a corner. She stalked past the line of people jostling for her attention. She pointed at the first culprit.

 You. You know you dont go with strangers. And there was the cupboards incident this morning. Youre in big trouble, buddy.

 The Gnoll child, Mrsha, gave Erin her most soulful, pleading, tearful look. Erin poked at Mrsha.

 Oh no. Youre not getting out of it. Youre in trouble. You just wait!

 Excuse me. What is the meaning of

 Hold it, #4!

 Erin whirled and shouted at the orange-haired man. Montressa turned white.

 Erin

 Shush! Now, you.

 Erin moved to her next person on the list. Shassa shrank.

 I cant apologize enough, Miss Solstice! I didnt mean any of it. I just saw

 She waved at Numbtongue, who had nearly beheaded her. Erin thought about this. She folded her arms.

 Ill grant you it was a mess. But! You cant just grab Gnolls and run off. Im uhmad. At you too! How do you just walk into my garden? Its private! Its supposed to be safe!

 She pointed at #2. Nalthaliarstrelous blinked at her.

 It is. Whats the problem?

 Erin stared at him.

 Its a [Garden of Sanctuary]. No one can get in but the people I allow! Even Grimalkin cant get in! If its not safe

 It is safe. It is a sacred ce. Bound by powerfulw. An army would fail to enter.

 The [Druid] leaned on his staff. Erin narrowed her eyes.

 You say that, buddy, but I saw you just waltz in there when you and Magnolia came.

 Erin, this is H

 Shut up, #5!

 Erin spun back to Nalthaliarstrelous. She poked at his chest; he swatted her finger away.

 How did you get in?

 I am a [Druid].

 Oh, so anyone can just walk in if they have the right ss?

 Nalthaliarstrelous and Shassa exchanged a nce. The Drake raised a timid w and Erin nodded at her.

 No. Only us, Miss Solstice. We areallowed ess. That is the nature of our ss. No ce of nature is barred from us in general, so long as we obey the rules.

 Hmm. I dunno. That seems awfully convenient.

 Erin stalked in a circle around Shassa. The Drake stared at her as Erin peered at her from different angles. She looked at Mrshathe Gnoll shrugged. Erin was crazy. Sometimes.

 We could no more harm someone in the garden than anyone else. Should we break such sacredws, we would lose our very ss.

 The Drake [Druid] exined. Erin rubbed at her chin. At this point, a horrified [Lady] staring at #4, spoke up.

 Erin. I really think you should

 #7, dont push me. Ow!

 Mavi smacked the back of Erins head. Hedault nced at Mavi as Erin punched at her. The [Princess] decided to hurry this along. Lyte faced Nalthaliarstrelous and Shassa.

 The fact remains that you two still entered the garden illegally. Why? Dont you have any respect for boundaries? Even [Druids] should!

 She looked down her nose at them, with proper disdain for troublemakers. The homeless vagrants stared at Lyte. Nalthaliarstrelous just sneered.

 What, respect? For what, exactly? Laws of thend? Of course not. You put a g here and say this is mine. Why would anyone acknowledge that, any more than a piece of metal on your head? We respected the onew that mattered: do no harm. Come in peace. No other one was made apparent.

 But it was private property!

 Lytes eyes shed. Shassa and Nalthaliarstrelous looked at each other. Both raised a hand.

 How were we supposed to know? We thought it was part of the inn.

 That was a good point. Erin exchanged a quick nce with Lyte. The [Innkeeper] faltered.

 Wellwell, it obviously wasnt essible to just anyone!

 Nalthaliarstrelous snorted in contempt.

 No one indicated that to me. Why wasnt there a sign? I would have obeyed it.

 The question did so much damage to Erins psyche that she had to walk away for a second just to deal. She came back with an actual sign, and showed it to the line of suspects. Problems 1-7 read the sign. Problem #8 (Ferris was still not included), walked through the door, muttering to himself. He stopped as Erin shoved the sign in the others faces.

 See this? See this? No Killing Goblins! Ive got signs! No one reads them! Who here read this, huh? Huh?

 Every person in line raised their hands, slowly. Mrsha, Shassa, Nalthaliarstrelous, Hedault, Montressa, Beza, and Mavi. From his point in the audience, Teriarch tapped Ishkr on the shoulder.

 Popcorn. With yeast.

 The [Innkeeper] stared. Nalthaliarstrelous folded his arms.

 I read signs. Who would not?

 The guests of the inn looked at each other ufortably. Erin turned to the [Druid]. He looked like the leastw-abiding person in the inn. She had heard about the beating of the young man.

 You. You read signs?

 I make signs.

 No way. Get out!

 The [Druid] glowered.

 I write many signs for Invrisil. Warnings, just like that one. Theres one outside this very inn. I was putting more up when I saw that man mistreating that poor horse.

 Everyone looked at him. Nalthaliarstrelous pointed. Erin, Lyte, and Mrsha all poked their heads out of The yers Retreat. And indeed, in neat lettering, one of the [Druid]s signs was clearly visible, on a billboard with pieces of news and other public-service announcements withrge type font. The sign read as follows:

 If you kick your dog, you will never walk again.

 Back in the inn, Erin decided she needed to tackle #3 on this point. She pointed at him. Again, the [Druid] swatted her finger down.

 Whyd you beat that guy up? They had to take him to a [Healer]s! There was blood!

 So?

 The [Innkeeper] drew back. Nalthaliarstrelouswhom she was quickly abbreviating to Nalth in her head, waspletely unrepentant.

 Look, Nalth, buddy. No one likes mistreatment of animals. If I saw a dude kicking a dog, Id kick him! Or her! But you broke his skull.

 And?

 Mrsha peeked up at Nalthaliarstrelouss nk face. He seemed to sense Erinspleteck of understanding and exined.

 He spurred his horse until it bled. Until it screamed for mercy. No one stopped him but me.

 The guests in the inn rumbled. That was poor treatment of any animal. Even soErin looked at him.

 You were close to killing him.

 And if I didwould the world be any poorer?

 The [Druid] leaned on his staff. It was the [Princess] turn. She smiled at Nalthaliarstrelous.

 But sir. The Watch would have fined the man. Or arrested them. You did not need to resort to violence. There arews

 She broke off. Nalthaliarstrelous was blowing his nose on the sleeve of his robe. He looked at her with clear disdain. He sneered at her.

 Law? Laws say many things. Do not hurt that man. Make him pay money for torturing his wards. He will not learn. When I break his legs for spurring a horse when it screamed and bledhe will remember.

 But you could stop him without hurting him! Or at leastnot that much!

 Erin protested. The [Druid] looked around the inn. He spotted Teriarch, half-bowed in acknowledgement. Eyes swung to Teriarch as he chewed on some popcorn. Much better than the mansion.

 Nalthaliarstrelous replied to Erin curtly.

 Let me ask you something, Innkeeper. When you see a man yanking on a dogs leash, mistreating it, would you say something? Stop him?

 Yes.

 Erin didnt blink. The [Druid] eyed her. He seemed approving of that. Shassa and Mrsha both nodded. But he went on.

 Good. But would you take the dog from that man? If he mistreats it once, he will again. Will you, on the spot, take the dog so it will suffer not a second longer? What if he is an important man? The [Mayor] of the city?

 Erin hesitated.

 Wellit depends.

 The [Druid] nodded, almost understandably.

 Yes. It does to you. You have <emws. The dog is that mans property. You cannot take his property. So forws, for words, you allow the dog to suffer. And that is the difference between you and me. I do not wait.

 Mrsha and Shassa stared at Nalthaliarstrelous in silence. They felt his ragethe willingness to kill the man a second time if he did not change. The Drake leaned over and whispered to Mrsha.

 Thats his perspective. Were not all alike.

 A thoughtful silence ensued. Nalthaliarstrelous wasnt entirely losing his audience. Although the perspicacious among them could still note blood on the tip of his staff. Even sohe was a character. More people began to order popcorn, or snacks to go along with their drinks.

 I get that. I even respect that. Sort of. Dont look at me like that, Lyte. But youre likethat went too far.

 Erin argued with the Human [Druid], but her temper had subsided somewhat. Shassa waved an urgent w.

 Again, were not all like him. I dont break thew! Excuse me, Im so sorry about this. Again! But I was justing through to Invrisil. To meet with Druid Nalthaliarstrelous, actually! Im from Oteslia!

 Ferris head snapped up. Teriarch, Grimalkinthe inn turned to Shassa. Erin blinked.

 You are? Wow, thats far!

 Yesbut we have an urgent appeal for Nalthaliarstrelous. Ifif we could just talk, I will remove myself forthwith.

 I mean

 Erin looked around. She counted. Problems 1-3 looked at her expectantly and Lyte blew out her cheeks. Erin nodded atst.

 Okay. I guess thats okay. #1. Youre not done.

 She pointed two fingers at her eyes and then at Mrsha. The Gnoll child gulped. Shassa exhaled in relief. Nalthaliarstrelous nodded.

 Good. Then we shall confer among ourselves.

 He beckoned. Shassa and Mrsha walked off after him. Erin blocked them.

 Hold it. Mrshas staying here.

 The two adult [Druids] looked at her.

 But she is one of us.

 Oh no.

 Lyte scooped up Mrsha. The Gnoll fought her, squirming to get free. Nalthaliarstrelous looked at Erin.

 She is of our ss. But she does not know our role. She muste with us. I thought she had a teacher. She does not.

 Yeah, buthow about no? You two can talk. Mrsha, stay here.

 The [Innkeeper] blocked Nalthaliarstrelous. The [Druid]s eyes flicked to Mrsha. She was squirming to get free. She wanted to know what they had to say! Lyte threatened her.

 Mrsha

 Let her go.

 The [Druid] slowly raised his staff. Erin raised a fist. Teriarch raised a hand.

 [Druids] do not break their word lightly. Let them walk in the garden with the child. She will note to harm among her peers.

 Erin blinked. She turned.

 Eldavin? When did you get here?

 The Dragon sat at his leisure. He nodded at Nalthaliarstrelous. The [Druid] bowed deeply. Shassa blinked, frowned at Teriarch, uprehending, and then hurried to copy the other [Druid]. Mrsha saw Lyte waver.

 Excuse me, sir. But Mrsha is my child.

 Good. Appropriate. Let her go.

 Teriarch waved a hand. Mrsha slipped out of Lytes hands like grease. Shended on the floor. Lyte spluttered.

 Excuse me!

 Buddy, you just became #8.

 Erin warned Teriarch. He narrowed his eyes.

 I am not a number.

 Dont make me make you #9. Lytemaybe we should let Mrsha talk with these two? In the garden. Theyre not going to run off. Right?

 Nalthaliarstrelous and Shassa nodded. The [Druid] murmured as Mrsha hid behind him.

 I wouldnt need to run, anyways.

 The [Princess] red daggers. But Mrsha scampered into the garden and the two [Druids] followed.

 Hold on! Im not done!

 The [Princess] followed. Erin let her go. She had a feelingNalthaliarstrelous was hard to deal with. Momentarily lost, she had to lean on a table.

 Im tired. Where was I?

 A man cleared his throat.

 I believe I am next. Number 4.

 Erin looked up. She blinked at Hedault.

 Whore you?

 The [Enchanter] nodded at Erin. Hedault, precise, hair slightly thinning on top, but pale orange. Pale-skinned from being indoors. He tapped a finger on his wrist.

 I am Hedault. [Enchanter]. We had an appointment this morning. I was approached by these two [Mages] who informed me the meeting would take ce at this inn. I have little time, but I understand this is in connection with the Horns of Hammerad, as well as the House of El. So I am willing to make concessions.

 His little speech made Grimalkin reach for a second sheaf of notes. Erin just blinked.

 Are you Cerias fianc?

 Hedault looked at her. He closed his eyes. Montressa covered her face.

 No.

 Okay. Um. Sure. #5, #6, whats this about?

 Montressa and Beza looked at each other. Hedaults eyes slowly turned to them and they gulped. The guests at the inn nodded approvingly. This is what they came for.

 Ambiance.

 -

 Exnations ensued. Hedault did not look pleased, upon learning that Erin had not set up an appointment and had indeed forgotten all about the meeting. If anything kept him from storming out, it was familiarity with the Horns of Hammerad, and the fact that hed vaguely approved of Erins numeric system of dealing with issues.

 Even so, he retired as Erin waved her arms in a panic and turned to Mavi, who had also forgotten.

 Ridiculous. My debt only goes so far. First that obnoxious [Necromancer]now this.

 Only the Antinium had been pleasant to work with. And wasnt that an insane statement? But Ksmvr had been very straightforward, direct, and orderly. The half-Elf? Fianc?

 Hedault was about to just leave and cklist the entire inn when someone walked over to him.

 Hedault, right? I was meaning to talk to you.

 I do not make unscheduled appointments.

 The [Enchanter] snapped, irritably. He turnedand saw a Dwarf sipping from his chilled ale. Pelt burped.

 I dont care. Pelt. I was going to speak to you. Pass. We talked now and then. You did that enchantment on a few des of mine two years back.

 Hedaults eyes focused on Pelts face. He opened his mouth. After a few seconds of thinking, he chose the most economical response.

 How?

 The magic door. Didnt you hear? Connects Pass to Liscor to Invrisil.

 I did hear. I didnt credit it, though.

 Hedault had inspected the magic door before the crowd had swept him into the inn. Now, he waspelled to stride down the hallway. Grumbling, Pelt followed. And a few others.

 Remarkable. This is indeed the work of Warmage Thresk. Of Albez. And someones performed a very crude alteration to his enchantment trap. Any regr mage would be hard-pressed to notice the teleportation trap!

 The [Enchanter], now that he had the leisure to look at the magic door, was agog. Pelt peered at the door.

 Good wood. Deceptive iron bands, see? Its actually pure metal.

 To hold the enchantment. It would notst this long otherwise.

 The Dwarf grunted.

 I dont see how thats possible. Not that Im an enchantment expert, but who enchants damn wood doors?

 Hedault tapped at his wrist, somewhat annoyed by the question. He replied snappily, ignoring the argumenting from the inn. Lyte was trying to remove Mrsha and the two [Druids] were arguing again.

 This wood is exceedingly precise in the ah, cutting. Not only is this door all cut from the same trees wood, but to maintain the perfection of the enchantment, the grain is uniform. One has to imagine even finding the correct tree took countless fellings. All to create this innocuous door.

 But why a door? And who is this Warmage Thresk? I do not know of him.

 A slightly supercilious voice. Hedault did not look about; he was eying the enchantment and the splicing of the elegant spell into thisaberration.

 Warmage Thresk of Albez is a [Mage] I have studied from various artifacts unearthed. His personal, and quite secret quarters were recently looted by adventurers, but his creations have long been uncovered from the ruins. As to the reason the door appears so inI gather this was a trap. The final trap of his apartments was, apparently, to lure unwary robbers into touching the door whereupon it teleported the intruders into a room filled with [Insanity] spells from every side. I would imagine the effect reached Tier 6 with so many ovepping spells.

 A murmur. A huge figure folded his arms.

 Not a bad trap. Too paranoid by half, though.

 [Warmages] of the Albez City-State were exceedingly paranoid aboutpetition. This is a disgusting alteration to the door. It bleeds efficacy.

 Doesnt it, though? I noticed it myself. Amateur work. But inspired.

 Crunch, crunch. Someone was eating something. Hedault found that annoying. In disgust, he rose and withdrew something.

 A treasure. The wand looked in at first. But the wood that had made it was ironwood. And the core? Heads turned. The Dwarf, Pelt, murmured.

 Now thats good wood. Ironwood, right?

 Correct.

 Hedault drew the wand down the doors length. Ah, what a perfect spell. Barely faded with time. He smiled as the wand allowed him to feel the enchantment buried in the wood. He was no expert in earth-magics, but the wand boosted his connection, even focus. He sighed.

 I would take months to even try to alter this enchantment. Fixing thisbasic teleportationwork I could do. But Im disinclined to work in this inn. Too many Skills; casting a spell in themon room would be dangerous. This has been a waste of time.

 Not if we talk about enchanting my products.

 Pelt sipped from his mug. Hedault looked at him, annoyed by the Dwarfs manner. Of course, he knew Pelt. And his image of the Dwarfs craftsuch wonderful purity of his metals, and delicate hammer work!was rapidly being dashed by the rude fellow.

 I will make an appointment, Master Smith, to consult. I do not have a surplus of time.

 Bah. I dont have time for appointments.

 And I am exceedingly busy!

 This ce was stressful enough. Hedault turned and reached for the door. As he did, someone tapped him on the shoulder.

 Excuse me. I was actually hoping to consult with an enchantment on some weights. Grimalkin of Pass.

 Hedault turned. He stared at a muscle-bound [Mage] in some amazement for a second. It seemed inconceivable that the body had that many muscles. Hedault blinked.

 of Pass? I can make an appointment, MasterDrake, but

 There was a roar from themon room. Hedault winced at the unorganized sound. He wanted to go. But a third figure was there. He was a tall half-Elf. Hedault nced at him as he stroked his beard.

 Interesting. Warmage ThreskWarmageit still doesnt ring a bell. But its not bad. I take it back. Insanity room traps are entertaining. I wish I could have seen it. Are there more Albez artifacts? I should like to see them.

 Excuse me, I dont have time to speak about the entire history of Albez! Whomever you are. I apologize, but I must go.

 Hedault snapped. Teriarch fixed him with a single eye and the [Enchanter] slowed. The Dragon slowly popped a kernel into his mouth. Chewed. Then, he spoke.

 As you wish. But tell me one thing before you go. Is that a genuine Living Wand? I thought no one made them anymore. How old is it?

 The [Enchanter] wavered. He looked at the wand. Grimalkins eyebrows rose. Pelt scratched his head. Master Hedaultdecided to stay.

 -

 Later, the [Druids] walked around the garden with Mrsha. Lyte didnt like it, but they had pointed out, quite reasonably, that Mrsha did not know her ss. And while Nalthaliarstrelous was arguably a public menace, Teriarch had supported him.

 Lyte was nothing if not practical at some points. Even so, she was sitting on the hill, ring daggers down at them as they circled the periphery.

 As they talked, Hedault found himself having a drink in the inn. The table was full, and onlookers hovered in the background.

 Palt, Montressa, Bezaand even Guildmistress Alonna, and other [Mages] who knew what was what. They ran errands, listened in silence, and seldom dared to ask questions.

 But the real table was only a few people. Hedault. Pelt the Dwarf. Grimalkin. Teriarch. Or Grand Mage Eldavin.

 Another round, sirs.

 Reynold brought the drinks. He was well aware someones head would roll after this, but the put-upon [Butler] was helping serve the table, much to Ishkrs bemusement. The [Mages] barely noticed.

 Yes, well. Enchantment is not what it was. One remembers rather grand enchantments that could be transcribed on a coin, say. So, one would offer apetitor [Mage] a triple-bound [Fireball] on a silver coin and watch their heads explode. Not that I ever did so myself, but it seems to me that the <empression of spells is whatscking.

 Eldavin was waving a hand airily as he spoke. It was Grimalkin who objected.

 Politely, Grand Magus, Id say theplexity of spells has also gone down. Wistram Academy isnt the only institution thatcks for advanced spellcraft these days. Thepetency of magic has decreased worldwide.

 Nonsense. The advancement of magic ebbs and flows. True, as a whole, the power of magic dwindles, but Archmage Zelkyr is not to me for all of it. How long has it been since a true, worldwide disaster struck?

 You mean, the King of Destruction? Or the Demons?

 Hedault was tapping on his wrist, listening intently. Eldavins brow wrinkled.

 Theoh. No, I mean, a disaster. Like the Creler Wars. That level of adversity.

 Those sitting around the table exchanged nces.

 Not within thest thousand years. I can name some events, but thats a high bar to set, Grand Magus.

 The Dragon snorted.

 There you are then. When such an event strikesit will change the next thousands of years. You seethose who level up to such high levels may pass away within mere centuries. But their artifacts remain. And the next generation is thus of a higher level. Now, were all at a low point in history, but the long view is where you see it at. But thats not about enchantments. In truth, I think its a shortage of <empression theory. And I know Im right. Compression theory leads to higher-level enchantments.

 Why, Grand Magus?

 Everyone leaned forwards. The Dragon tapped at the side of his nose, enjoying the moment.

 Enchantment is a series of building blocks. One can create a monumental enchantment on something the size of a mountain. But the purity and scale required is too great. Because modern-day enchantments are notpressed, the difficulty is scaled up exponentially on all levels. Compress the amount of runework needed by a factor of even two, and the benefits. Its about dimensions. Modern enchantments only seem to use two, or three at most for some reason

 At that point Montressa had to ask.

 But Grand Magus. What other dimensions are there?

 The Dragons eyes twinkled. And he refused to talk. He felt quite happy with the attention and he believed that he was managing to just drop the most nebulous of hints.

 He was, of course, wrong. The problem wasnt that Teriarch was speaking in abstracts without dropping any concrete magical examples to his audience about how spellcraft had waned and could be discovered. Nor was it that he was avoiding any specifics.

 The problem was that he was absolutely correct about the vague ws he pointed out. And the students of magic, from nosing about aimlessly in the maze of spell theory, had just scented the cheese.

 Such delicious moments. Such informative talks. Such notes. But that wasnt the point. As Teriarch stretched back, he heard a sound amid the talk, the eager questions, Grimalkins quill skritching.

 Click.

 It was the sound of wood on wood. A delightful little noise. The Dragon looked around. And he heard a curse.

 Aha! Victory!

 Erin, in a very unsportswomanly like disy of conduct, checkmated Mavis king. The [Lady] red.

 How are you doing that?

 Pure skill! This is vengeance! Hey, Saliss, want to get in on this?

 I dont y chess.

 The [Alchemist] was in the group watching Teriarch, for different reasons. The Dragon leaned back, craning his neck to and fro.

 Whats that over there?

 Someone take me on! Wheres Belgrade? Pawn? Its been a stressful day!

 Erin Solstice was pping down her opponents. Mavi had lost eight games in a row; Erin was feeling unusually uncharitable. She was warming up for a Chaldion match, and her regr chess game wasnt untilter tonight. She looked around.

 No one met her eyes. Olesm might have, but he was in Liscor. None of the Antinium were her chess veterans. The staff hid. Even Numbtongue carefully and deliberately walked out the door and went into the outhouse.

 Into that opening came a Dragon. The table of [Mages] fell silent. Erin Solstice slowly looked up as the half-Elf walked over to her. And the inn

 Fell

 Silent.

 Grand Mage Eldavin. He sat down as the regrs of the inn turned in their chairs. They knew. They looked at each other. Someone ran for the doors and sent a Street Runner for every chess lover in Liscor.

 Hey there.

 Erin Solstice cautiously looked at Eldavin. She knew something. Reynold and Sacra looked at each other. Eldavin sat down slowly.

 Good evening, Erin Solstice. How curious. You know this game?

 Of course. I meanI only learned it two years ago.

 Erins eyes flickered. Across the room, Grimalkin snorted.

 Sure.

 The Dragons eyes narrowed. He recalled something Ryoka had told him.

 Only naturally. I myself learned the game two years ago as well.

 Sacra and Reynold exchanged a nce. Sacra recalledquite vividlyseeing this game before. Teriarch had taught Magnolia how to y.

 Cool. Do you y chess? Youre uha friend of Magnolias. I didnt know that.

 The young woman looked carefully at Eldavin. He gave her a half-smile, mysterious, a bit superior.

 One cultivates acquaintances over time. It is an inevitability of age. Would you object to me challenging you to a game?

 Chess? Not at all. Im actually a huge fan.

 Erin smiled. The Grand Magus nced at Mavi. At the crowd suddenly pulling up tables, chairs. Palt produced a ledger.

 Bets.

 Youappear more than confident, Miss Solstice.

 No, Im not that good

 Erin began, blushing. In other areas, she could maintain a big head. But a good chess yer wasnt overconfident. Neither were they humble. But the Dragon cut her off.

 Thats rather fortunate. I dont y chess forck of suitable opponents. I myself am something of amaster.

 The [Innkeeper] paused. Slowly, her eyes lifted and she met his.

 Oh, really?

 Eldavin polished his nails on his robes.

 I cant remember losing a game in recent memory.

 Huh. Well, Im decent at the game myself. Perhaps I could give you a good match.

 Something in the air. Mavi blinked. Erin Solstice was terrible at using her aura. But the [Innkeeper] leaned over the table.

 Would you like to y a game?

 The Dragon offered her an arrogant smile.

 I suppose I could pass the time.

 His tone suggested that winning a game or two might be enjoyable. No hint that he would ever lose. Palt nced at Montressa. Numbtongue poked his head out of the door.

 By the time Olesm burst through the door, panting and clutching at his side, the two were sitting.

 I prefer ying ck. But if you have a preference

 Erin politely switched the board around. The Grand Magus waved azy hand.

 Im quite fine with either side. Ratherto make this interesting, why dont I spot you a move?

 The young womans eyes narrowed.

 Really?

 I am most adept.

 Cool. Thats really generous. How about this, though. I could spot you a move.

 The Dragon hesitated. He sat up slightly. His eyes narrowed. Erin gave him a big, friendly smile.

 Im adept too.

 Somewhere in Pass, Chaldion was fighting with his [Healer], demanding to see. Erin Solstice cracked her fingers. Winced. She didnt even notice the rings of people watching. Belgrade, Olesm, Garry, PawnMontressa, Bezale, Pelt, PaltHedault

 Saliss of Lights casually walked down the hallway. He leaned on the magic door and switched it away from Pass. Then he dusted his ws and walked back, smiling.

 Two voices spoke in the silence.

 Im serious about spotting you a move.

 You seriously believe you have a chance, Miss Solstice?

 Yup. But heyI do like a nice, fair game. Equal. Id even bet on it. Likea few gold coins?

 I wouldnt like to take money from you. Why dont we simply y?

 As you like.

 The Dragon slowly moved a pawn to E4. The [Innkeeper] looked up at him. She smiled.

 -

 Of course, that wasnt important. In the [Garden of Sanctuary], oblivious to the soundsing from themon room, three [Druids] walked. Two upright, one on all fours.

 Nalthaliarstrelous, when not beating animal-abusers with his staff, was much different to the person Lyte and Erin mistrusted so much. The first thing he did was see to Mrshas Fortress Beaver colony.

 Oh, you poor things.

 Mrsha saw him gently coaxing the Fortress Beavers out of their dam. Then, the [Druid] held them. He gently inspected their scarred flesh. And to Mrshas amazement, produced little balms, rubbed them into the flesh. And the scar tissue began to fade.

 Even Shassa, the other [Druid], was amazed. But Mrsha felt it. If Shassa was a sapling, Nalthaliarstrelous was a tree. And his power ran deep.

 Healing is one of our talents. Few spells heal outright, but our ss can cast [Regeneration] at the utmost highest levels. Which I am not. But I can still remove scar tissue.

 The [Druid] exined to Mrsha. His fingers were gentle, and the Fortress Beaver nuzzled him before she waddled off. The animals trusted the [Druid] instinctively. And he knew his work. He inspected the stool of the beaverswhich Mrsha had to toss out every day as part of her responsibilities. He kicked one fresh leaving apart and hmmed.

 The wood isnt as good for their diets. There are better trees. And they will want different food by season.

 Mrsha looked up at him. She was impressed. This smelly Human was smart.

 Shassaughed, appalled. Nalthaliarstrelous just guffawed. The Drake bent down and addressed Mrsha.

 You mustnt mock him. Nalthaliarstrelous is among the best of us.

 I am just a man. Our littlendfriend has the right of it.

 The older [Druid] snapped. Shassa jumped, blushed under her scales and ducked her head.

 Forgive me, Nalthaliarstrelous. As I said. Oteslia craves your aid. He is the best of us at terraforming, you see, Mrsha.

 Andbat and shapeshifting. The Drakes thought ran parallel to her words. Mrsha peered up at Nalthaliarstrelous. She nudged him.

 Show me. The [Druid] understood her without words. He shook his head.

 This garden is a sacred ce. I will not casually move earth. It is just magic anyways. Any [Earth Mage] could do the same, or [Geomancer].

 His tone made it clear what he thought of them. Mrsha wrinkled her nose. She had walked with the [Druids]. But she didnt understand what made themunique.

 Shassa and Nalthaliarstrelous both smiled at that.

 The answer, Mrsha, is that we are more than just protectors of nature like many call us. Youryour mother for one.

 She pointed up at Lyte, who scowled at them from her hilltop. A bee was buzzing around her,zily feeding on flowers. Nalthaliarstrelous nodded.

 You saw me dealing justice.

 Smacking bad mens with a club. Mrsha felt that was lessimpressive than she had hoped from her ss. The [Druids] chuckled.

 Not always. I do not attack [Woodcutters]. Despite what your parent thinks. You may chop down trees. You may hunt for food, or coin, or need. These things are what all people do. But when you destroy, waste livesthat is when I break your legs. My Skills and spells empower me to do that.

 The [Druid] tapped his hand with his staff for emphasis. His palm turned into a valley of thorns. Shassa shook her head.

 Nalthaliarstreloushis role is more punitive, Mrsha. He deals with people. Myself, I deal with animals. nts. Animals can be cruel as well. Sometimes they need to be disciplined. A rabid bear must be calmed and healedor put down. In the same way, nts need water, but sometimes they must also be pruned. This is my role.

 Gently, she uprooted a thistle nt that had migrated into the [Garden of Sanctuary], perhaps borne on someones boots. Without malice. Mrsha was puzzled. Wasnt the thistle a nt? WellMrsha would have yanked it up too.

 It doesnt need to be here. It can serve another purpose as food if boiled, or in other ways. Again, were not all like him. I dont break thew! And while Im part of Oteslia, I am not under anyonesmand. Nalthaliarstrelousthe Circle of Oteslia is concerned about your involvement in the Antinium affair. We want to talk to you about that as well.

 She pointed at the Human [Druid]. Cautiously. The man ignored the implicit criticism. He addressed both Mrsha and Shassa.

 Sometimes, we must seek the authority of cityfolk to do greater good. Such as that woman. What she gives is more than is asked for. I deem it well enough. And my work is my ownw; I am the only [Druid] around Invrisil.

 He meant Magnolia Reinhart. But his thoughts also indicated that [Druids] were rare. A Circle of themrarer still.

 Chastened, Shassa nodded.

 We acknowledge that, Nalthaliarstrelous. But

 She broke off for a second. Mrsha heard a buzzing. All three [Druids] looked up.

 Apista flew upside down past the three [Druids], ignoring the stares. Mrsha distinctly got an impression that if the bee could speak, Apista would be sayingwheelook at me, Im flying!

 Whats wrong with her?

 The Drake [Druid] looked concerned. Mrsha exined. Flowers. Apista got silly when she drank their nectar. Nalthaliarstrelous shook his head, frowning.

 Those flowers. Just as well theyre not fully matured. Terrible and beautiful. Where did theye from?

 Mrsha wasnt sure she should exin. The two [Druids] frowned. But they did not press her.

 It was funny. For all Lyte called themwless rulebreakers, it was clear that they regarded this as Mrshas domain. They were respectful to her, listened when she wanted to say something, and treated her like an equal. Mrsha liked it.

 What you must know of us, Mrsha, is that we upy many roles. It is not just people and pets that concern us. In fact, it is seldom them for most of us. Nalthaliarstrelous is an exception. We must battle monsters, disease, starvation, fire, even animal species themselves.

 Shassa went on with the exnation. She lifted her staff, and showed Mrsha the tip. To Mrshas horror, she saw it actually had a small nest of tiny purple spiders. They scurried out as Mrsha backed away. Shassaughed.

 Dont worry, theyre friendly! Nor would I let them infest this ce.

 She lifted her staff and they disappeared into the web. The [Druid] gestured about.

 Our job is bnce. Not protection. For instance, I am a [Spiderweb Druid]. But when Shield Spiders bred over their limits and began eating everything in the Kask regionI exterminated them with my fellow [Druids], adventurers, and military. Because it was necessary. In the same way, unnatural things, like undead, some monsters, are also our enemies.

 Crelers. We exterminate them.

 Nalthaliarstrelous was blunt. The Drake shuddered. So did Mrsha. But it was an important distinction to make so the Human took over.

 Few things we loathe, Mrsha. The Bloodfields are a type of nature. However changed. Not nature I would allow to persist outside of its zone, but nature nheless. Crelers destroy everything. Even rabbits would destroy Creler eggs rather than let them exist. What [Druids] deem enemies, we battle. We are warriors.

 Shassa touched her chest.

 Caretakers.

 Arbiters.

 The Human [Druid] bent down. He touched the ground.

 You and Shassa wonder why I worked with Magnolia Reinhart? The Antinium are our enemies, little one. When they came, they eradicated everything around their Hives. We fought them.

 His eyes flickered. Mrsha felt his cold resolve. He had fought them. Buried them, drowned them, torn them apart during both wars

 Indignantly, the Gnoll [Druid] stood up on her two legs. No! The two [Druids] recoiled. Mrsha punched Nalthaliarstrelouss leg. Not Pawn! Not Garry! Not Belgrade or anyone here! Shed beat them up first, shed

 Nalthaliarstrelous picked her up. Lyte jumped to her feet.

 Hey!

 The [Druid] ignored her. He let Mrsha swing wildly in the air.

 Stop that. Exin. The Antinium have always been one Hive. Exin, little one.

 Mrsha hesitated. She thoughtand both [Druid]s eyes widened. Mrsha imagined Garry, feeding her scraps, Belgrade, learning to y chess

 Pawn, praying for the dead. Was that evil?

 No.

 Slowly, Nalthaliarstrelous lowered Mrsha to the ground. He blinked. Shassa turned pale.

 I cannot believe it. The Antinium are one thing.

 Clearly not. Listen to the young [Druid], Shassa.

 But shes a ch

 Smack. Nalthaliarstrelous bopped the Drake so fast Mrsha didnt see it. The Drake clutched at her head and squatted down. Lyte hesitated as Mrsha excitedly nodded. Nalthaliarstrelous scowled at Shassa.

 Do you deny the truth? Look! Listen! If she says the Antinium are not one thing, they are not!

 He turned to Mrsha.

 If they are not all the same, we will treat them as such. But this is a revtion. The other wild walkers must know. Now I regret helping Reinhart.

 His face was troubled. But as he bent low to look at her, the mans face broke into a huge smile behind his beard.

 It must be fate, that the wilds make you a [Druid] so young! You have battled Raskghar, monsters! Littlendfriendyou now bring us important knowledge! If the Antinium are not our enemies, we should not fight them as we assumed in the Third Antinium War.

 Nalthaliarstrelous!

 Shassa cried out, horrified. The [Druid] spun, staff raised. But this time the gardensw made him hesitate. Apparently educational bops countednot beatings with sticks.

 We will debate it. You see, Mrshathere are only tworge Circles. One, in the Vale forest under the aegis of House Veltras. The other in Oteslia. There are [Druids] in other ces, but two gatherings in Izril. In every continent we roam, but two there. And we are not all united.

 Shassa edged away from Nalthaliarstrelous as he pointed at her. Mrsha began to see. The Drake felt very peacefulpared to Nalthaliarstrelous wild impulses. A warrior and caretaker, indeed.

 Yes. Perhaps lets leave it at that. For nowMrsha, you shoulde to Oteslia with me. Or at the very leastwait until Nalthaliarstrelous returns to learn from one of us.

 Even him. The Drake rubbed her head as she looked up at Lyte. She saw Mrsha tug at her leg. Why? Mrsha was happy to learn, but shed leveled up well enough.

 To understand what it is to be kind. One can be cruel by being kind. Or make mistakes. You were close to losing your ss. And you have hurt these children, havent you?

 Nalthaliarstrelous bent down. Mrsha went still. Her face fell.

 The rats. Gravely, the [Druids] nodded. They felt her guilt.

 Just so. And the Fortress Beavers fought the Shield Spiders because you did not separate them. You must learn some lessons to help, not hinder. We will teach you. Butter. It may be difficult if that one objects.

 Nalthaliarstrelous waved at Lyte. Mrsha nodded slowly. The [Druid] bent down.

 For now, just know that your ss is not just nature-mage. Magic is a side-effect of our ss, not the goal. We do not crave power. We are not all one people. But we share ideas inmon.

 He tapped his chest.

 Here is mine, and what I believe: to hurt those who cannot defend themselves is a poor thing. To waste is a poor thing.

 His voice was gentle, but like steel, vines rooted in the earth. Shassa raised her staff, and nodded.

 To destroy without leaving something behind is to be worthless. That is what the [Druids] of Oteslia believe.

 Cowards. Nalthaliarstrelous nced at Mrsha. She began to suspect part of Oteslias project involvedbat of some kind. But as the [Druids] walked on, they exined a tiny bit more.

 You will not master magic as well as [Mages]. But nor will you be as unfit to survive without magic. But the true root of our power is in our connection with nature. ntsanimalswe are shape-changers. You have one Skill. We have many.

 The Drake touched her chest.

 For instance, I am spider-friend. If I will it, I can spin silk. Climb even the tallest trees.

 Nalthaliarstrelouss already-hairy arm covered with fur. He grinned at Mrsha with bear-teeth, only cooler than Erin.

 I am bear-friend. Wolf-brother. Many things in one. You have one ally: beavers.

 Beavers.

 Shassa giggled. Mrsha and Nalthaliarstrelous both red at her. He raised his staff and she raised her ws.

 Im sorry! But thats just rare!

 Nalthaliarstrelous nodded. Hetwitchedblinked. Mrsha saw him look around, feel at the back of his neck. What had that been? But the [Druid] didnt know himself. She felt his curiosity.

 True. But all of us have our paths. You might be a fine grower, or more magically inclined. The point is that nature is supported where you find it. It may be a garden, like I tend. Or Oteslias produce.

 Druids could sell nts? Wasnt that bad? Shassa shrugged.

 Everyone has to earn money. And we put it into sanctuaries for animals. You see, some of us are less active than others. Because of [Druids], the Pegasi poptions did not dwindle like Unicorns! They now live in Oteslia, even if their numbers are still small.

 As ves.

 Companions! Theyre well-cared for, Nalthaliarstrelous!

 Mhm. As ves. They are not free to fly.

 Dont start, please! The Circle of Oteslia decided centuries ago

 The north never agreed to it.

 How many Pegasi are in the north, then? Huh? Answer me that?

 They died free.

 Well, dont hit me for speaking the truth

 The two began to quarrel. Mrsha listened, hearing insults both verbal and mental begin to fly. Her takeaway was that [Druids] were a bit high-strung.

 But she liked her ss. She didnt know if she wanted to just be a [Druid], though. Mrsha rather liked the idea of being a [Druid]-[Adventurer]. A real adventurer. And maybe a [Wizard] too!

 Both Nalthaliarstrelous and Shassa stared at the Gnoll child in consternation. It seemed to ur to them only now that Mrsha might not be as invested as they were in their ss. Nalthaliarstrelous opened his mouth

 And twitched. His head spun around. Mrsha and Shassa looked at him. The [Druid] stared about. Then up.

 What is that?

 -

 Twang. On his roof, Bird happily hummed and shot another arrow. Another bird fell out of the skies.

 Two birds, three birds, all in the pot. Or if I leave them out, they will rot.

 Bird happily sing. He ignored the roar from below. An outraged Dragon overturned a chess board. An [Innkeeper] danced. Chaldion pounded on the door as Saliss leaned on it.

 Spectacle. But Bird didnt care. He aimed his bow at another frantic, diving shape. He sighted, calcting velocity, wind, drew back and

 Nalthaliarstrelous, stop!

 The Antinium froze. He had heard nothing. Seen nothing. Up until that momentslowly he turned his head.

 A vast bear stood behind him. Nonot a bear. It had climbed the tower in three moves. Long ws had torn the wood. But this creature was bipedal. It opened its mouth and dark venom dripped between huge fangs. It rippled with muscleBird swung his bow around.

 What are you doing?

 The thing spoke. The Worker hesitated. He saw a Drake and Gnoll race onto the roof, rmed. The other Workers scrambled for weapons, but Nalthaliarstrelous paid no attention. Bird hesitated.

 Hunting Birds?

 The [Druid] waited. Bird stared up at him. Slowly, Nalthaliarstrelous looked at Bird.

 Tell me. How many do you kill? How many do you eat? How many do you leave to rot, or strip only for feathers and trophies?

 He had exceptionally long ws, Bird noted. Venom biteit was like someone had engineered parts of bear, wolf, and something with venom forbat. The Antinium reflected he might die unless he jumped from the roof. But someone would die either way. Stillsince Mrsha was behind the [Druid] and frantically trying to pull him back, the Worker replied. Honestly.

 I will kill as many birds as I see. Yes, as many as fly past me. I eat them all. I leave some to rot so they get squishy. And I like their feathers very muchly. Will you kill me?

 He drew back the arrow, aiming for Nalthaliarstrelouss open jaws. The [Druid] stared at him. The Workers froze. And thenNalthaliarstrelousughed.

 -

 A naked [Druid] stood on the roof of the inn, putting on his robes. Mrsha learned something interesting about him. About [Druids].

 Nalthaliarstrelous didnt care. Or ratherhe had thought Bird was just shooting the birds and leaving them to die for fun. When he heard that Bird would eat each and every one, his wrath had abated.

 All things die. I object to waste.

 He exined to Mrsha. On the other hand, Shassa had been horrified to learn about Birds one-bow crusade against all that flew. She was exining to Bird about conservation of species, nests, and so on. Nalthaliarstrelous mental thoughts were dismissive. He sat with Mrsha on the roof, listening to the cheers as Teriarch bellowed for a rematch. Foul! He hadnt been trying!

 The [Druids] ignored the silliness. Nalthaliarstrelous nodded to Bird.

 Shassa is wrong. That Antinium cannot kill every bird in the Floodins. The smart ones already fear him. I sensed that and assumed he only cared for sport. They will learn to avoid him.

 Mrsha didnt know if she agreed with that. But Nalthaliarstrelous was, in fact, a proponent of hunting.

 Animals kill each other to eat. Only those of us like Shassa want people to eat leaves all day. And she is a Drake.

 He grinned at Mrsha. Lyte huffed onto the roof after extricating herself from the mess in the inn. She saw the Human [Druid]now thankfully clothed or there would have been troublepeering around the Floodins.

 This is not my ce, littlendfriend. But if I had to solve one issue of thisndno [Druids] reside around Liscor.

 Gee. I wonder why. Excuse me, but Mrsha cant stay with you fine [Druids] forever!

 The [Princess] stomped over to them. Nalthaliarstrelous nced up at her.

 This ce would be better for our kind. Now I look at itperhaps we should havee earlier. Now I see.

 His eyes shed across the Floodins. Mrsha saw lush grass, butterflies, flowersnot many trees, but a nice ce to run about if you didnt mind Shield Spiders and Rock Crabs. She sighed.

 She was banned from going out. Stinky Lyte and Erin said

 Tap. Nalthaliarstrelouss staff touched Mrshas head. Lyte made a sound. But the [Druid] just looked at Mrsha.

 Just as well. There are threats here to children, even [Druids]. Youck judgment. Even we follow rules.

 She was tough! Mrsha made a fist. Nalthaliarstrelous raised his staff. Shelowered the fist. Lyte lowered her fist. The [Druid] paid no attention to her. Nalthaliarstrelouss head turned once more.

 How problematic.

 What was? Her? Mrsha poked at him. The [Druid] didnt respond for a second. Shassa came stomping across the roof.

 What a monster! He doesnt see how many birds hes killing!

 He eats them. Maggots and all. You could learn from them.

 Lyte made a sound. She stood up.

 Bird? What did I tell you about

 The [Hunter] fled. Shassa nched. But Nalthaliarstrelous was just frowning. He had sensed something. And Mrsha waited. Atst, the Human [Druid] rose.

 Shassa Weaverweb. Mrsha of the Stone Spears Tribe. I am minded to call together a circle to debate a grave issue I see.

 The Gnoll blinked. She hadnt expected that. What grave issue? Shassa was just as taken aback. Her gaze swung to Mrsha.

 A circle? But there are just three of us!

 Three is enough.

 But shes not even recognized. Shes only

 The Drake saw Nalthaliarstrelous eyes sh.

 She is a [Druid].

 She is too young.

 The female [Druid] protested. Nalthaliarstrelous shook his head.

 This is her ce. Would you exclude her?

 Shassa bit her tongue. Mrsha glowered. Yeah! Exclude fromwhat?

 A decision. Something grave affects thisnd. Worse than the dungeon.

 Nalthaliarstrelous stared across the Floodins. He touched at his eyes. Mrsha saw them flicker. She sensedsomething. Shassa bit her lip. And the [Druid] turned.

 To methis ce seems much worse than it has ever been. Mrsha du Marquin. Look and see.

 He turned to her. His brown, in eyes deepened. Mrshas gaze was drawn into the ck pupils. Something was in there. Apicture. She blinked

 And she was standing in the same ce. Mrsha looked away from Nalthaliarstrelous. And froze.

 She saw the Floodins as they had been. The mountains were the same. Butthend was different.

 Gone was Liscor! There was no tall walls! No city of stone! Justwater. Mrshas jaws dropped. She saw Nalthaliarstrelous pointing. Only he, Shassa, and she were left. Even the roof of the inn was gone.

 See through my eyes. What must have been here once.

 The [Druid] pointed. Through his Skill, Mrsha saw.

 Firsta vastke. Oh! The Gnoll saw, in a sh, how this basin, the rainsit had been a <emke! Of course! Only, at some point someone had pulled the plug and the waters drained. But beforeshe saw water everywhere, only a few points of shallownd. Vast things swam in the waters. Mrsha saw something farrger than a Lurkersnatch fish moving in the deeps. And then

 Then it was a swamp. Mushy, overgrown. But beautiful. Nalthaliarstrelous eyes reflected in their very depths a buzzing ce full of wild creatures,rge predators who lived in water and on the sparse areas ofnd. Lots of trees, growing wild. Not a fun ce to live for people. But so full of life!

 Mrsha saw Razorbeaks in the trees, amphibious reptilessnapping, fighting with snakesmammals were rare. She looked at Nalthaliarstrelous. Shassa was wide-eyed.

 [Memory of the Earth]. Nalthaliarstrelous, why

 And then came Drakes.

 The [Druid]s voice was calm. Mrsha saw trees disappearing, the murky waters clearing. Someone was removing the trees! Harvesting themto build settlements of wood. And the effect of the clearing was pronounced.

 The waters drained. The marsh system turned into something familiar. Mud ts and a temporaryke by spring. And at other times

 No more trees were left. But that was not a bad thing. Just something new. Mrsha blinked, ran over a field of flowers.

 What was this?

 The Floodins were dry. They filled and drained, but in the summers, they bloomed verdant. Mrsha saw Corusdeer herds, vast ins full of moles, rabbits, and other grazing animals like cows and sheep! Not all native to Liscor. It was a vast pastoralnd! Albeit not t.

 Of course, predators roamed this ce too. Foxes, wolvesCarn Wolves too, hunting,rger species such as Rock Crabs at the top of the hierarchy. But it was filled with wildlife. Mrsha smiled. She raced after a rabbit

 Nalthaliarstrelous caught her from going over the edge of the roof. Mrsha blinked. Suddenly, she was back in reality. The Floodins looked almost like her vision. But something was wrong.

 Where had all the animals gone? Mrsha blinked. The Floodins now had butterflies, ordinary bees, birds, flying well clear of the inna few rodents. But not the abundance of before. Even the [Shepherds] and their herds were gone. Liscor was back, but

 Oh. No, Nalthaliarstrelous

 Shassa breathed. Mrsha nced at her and then the Human [Druid]s face. He lookedweary. Concerned.

 Do you see?

 He asked Mrsha. She did. Sort of.

 Something strange was happening here. The [Druid]s eyes glittered and he waited for Mrsha to solve it. She thought. She had seen life in abundance in three stages. First, fishies in theke. Second, marsh-stuff. Thirdins animals.

 This was the ins now,rgely unchanged. But why were there no animals? The young [Druid] thought. And she had it.

 The spiders.

 They were all over the Floodins. Not visible, but Mrsha knew from experience that their camouged nests were all over the ce. You stepped on them and you went into a nest full of hungry Shield Spiders. That was why you had to stick to the road. And whythe animals were gone.

 They are not native to Izril, you know. They came from Baleros. Only one species. And while not as terrible as others, they breed in great numbers.

 The [Druid] sat heavily on the roof. Shassa was breathing hard. She looked at the man as he spoke to Mrsha.

 Few things can live where one species dominates. Now I have shown you what I see. Tell me Mrsha of the Stone Spears tribe. Think of the Shield Spiders of these Floodins. You, who have seen them more than I or Shassa. Do they spread beyond number? Do they choke other life? I say it so.

 He held up a hand before Shassa could reply.

 I say they will multiply until all else dies here. I saythe Floodins mayck for trees. It has changed, by the actions of Drakes. But what it could be now is still less than it is. Think carefully before you respond, Mrsha. But this is yournd. What do you say?

 What did she say? Mrsha looked at Shassa. The [Spiderweb Druid] was a friend of the Shield Spiders. But even shethe Drake looked across the Floodins. She bowed her head.

 I say it is so. Ancestors, but the webfolk are too hungry. They eat everything. There are hundreds of thousands. And those dont even count the young, the unborn

 She could sense them. For a moment, Mrsha saw as she did. She saw the nests. Thousands of them. Some close to the inn. Spiders milled aboutMrsha felt her fur standing on end.

 Nalthaliarstrelous nodded. It was two votes now, a clear majority. But that wasnt how it worked. They waited for Mrsha.

 Below, in the inn, a Dragon sted a chess board and sent everyone running for cover as he vented his fury. Above, a small Gnoll thought gravely. And atst

 She nodded. Nalthaliarstrelous bowed his head.

 So then.

 Shassas eyes filled with tears. Mrsha looked at them. She did not understand. Yet.

 She had onest lesson to learn about [Druids].

 

 -

 Xrn hiked up towards The Wandering Inn. She wanted to see what all the fuss was about and why Belgrade and Garry had both run out of the Hive. She pushed open the door to the inn.

 Just in time to hear the cheering. The crowd barely noticed her.

 Erin Solstice was shaking hands. TeriarchGrand Magus Eldavin had stormed off.

 Contrary to the mood, it wasnt the sweeping victory you might expect. To the chess aficionados, it was clear that it was very close.

 Erin and Teriarch, as master-yers, had yed to a draw eight games. Between master-sses, that was usual. But Teriarch had lost the first game due to his overconfidence. By the time hed taken the game seriously, Erin had smoked him.

 Hes actually won the next game, and the fourth. But Erin had won the eighth after four draws, and the Dragon had lost his temper.

 Poor sportsmanship. Just, just tragic.

 Olesm was remarking to Belgrade. The [Tactician] nodded. It was clear Erin and Teriarch needed to settle this. Onest win took all. But the Grand Magus had flipped the chess board after the first loss, and then proceeded to st a table out of existence so thoroughly that even [Partial Reconstruction] wouldnt salvage it. People wereconcerned about a third loss.

 But Erin was on fire. Almost literally. Herpetitive spirit had been turned up by the only other yer in this world who could match her. Teriarch was good. He didnt y like her mysterious opponent; he was far more aggressive. Shed tried out-speeding him, but hed taken her down effortlessly. He could process faster than even she could. But he grew overconfident. And that meant

 One more game takes all. But were betting on this one. I wont lose again!

 A roar came from across the room. Erin saw the half-Elf stalking back down the room. He wanted to put it all on the line. He passed through the crowd.

 Erinmaybe a bets a bad idea.

 I dunno, Olesm. Ive yed for money before. What do you want to bet, Eldavin?

 The Dragon looked at her, snarling. He was tempted to say one million gold coins and be done with it! Reynold and Sacra were trying to drag him back, remind him to keep his cover. But he was too incensed. The Dragons head turned as he looked for things to bet.

 The magic door? He had magic doors! Gold? She couldnt match his bet! A magic sword? Hm. His eyes alit on Numbtongues sword. Bah, but it wasnt valuable. He looked around.

 And there was Xrn. The Centenium stared at the Dragon. Her interested yellow-and-rose eyes turned bright yellow. Orange. Shock. rm. The Dragons eyes widened.

 He recoiled.

 You? What are

 The Dragons anger turned to hostility at once. Grimalkin and Chaldion looked around. Saliss of Lights reached for his bag of holding. Xrns hand tightened on her staff. She looked around, unafraid of anyone. Wary of Saliss and Eldavin.

 Ratici. I think we might be earning our pay.

 Wilovan adjusted his cap, looking worried. He saw the Centenium shifting. And his [Dangersense] began going off.

 Erin Solstice didnt notice the ringing in her head at first. She was reaching into her pocket. He wanted a bet? She didnt know if it was a good idea. But she had something to bet. Pelt was watching her.

 The world was ready to change. But if you understood this moment, you knowit wasnt about chess. Or Dragons. Or even Antinium.

 It was about [Druids].

 The first rolling drumbeat came from the roof of the inn. Soft. Then louder. Everyone in the inn looked up.

 What the?

 Erin rose from her seat. She heard a thunderous beat. It shook through the entire inn. Everyone, the crowd, the guestseven the Dragon looked up.

 Slowly, they came out of the inn. The sound was louder now. On the walls of Liscor, someone was shouting the Solstice-rm. The Watch stared towards the inn. Towards the source of the sound.

 Nalthaliarstrelous was banging his staff on the roof. Mrsha, standing next to Shassa and Lyte and Bird, felt like the entire world was shaking.

 Whats happening? What is he doing?

 Lyte was screaming at Shassa. The [Druid] shouted something back. But no one heard a thing.

 What?

 Lyte screamed. Bird shouted.

 What?

 The Drake [Druid] screamed loud enough, even as the pounding grew louder.

 Challenging them!

 And then it was silent. Mrsha saw the [Druid] halt, his staff raised. She heard shouting from below, confused voices.

 #2, dont make mee up there! Were ying ch

 Erin Solstice froze mid-shout. She saw, behind her inn, across the Floodins

 The grass moved. The fake nests copsed. ck shapes boiled out of the holes. Not hundreds. Not thousands. Not tens of thousands.

 Shield Spiders. The [Innkeeper] turned white as the innocent Floodins, green and lush, turned into a sea of spiders. They popped out of the ground where they had been hidden, an infestation out of sight. The holes in the grassy hills and valleys were like gaping wounds in green skin, divulging the foul nests.

 On the walls, Watch Captain Zevara saw a flood of Shield Spiders even greater than the one in the dungeoning at the walls. Her mouth went dry. She croaked.

 Soundsound the

 The Shield Spiders rolled across the ins in a fury. Some were asrge as cars. Few were the size of those in the dungeon, but they were everywhere.

 Inside the inn! Get in the gardennow!

 Erin was the first to break the shocked silence. She screamed and pointed. People ran. The [Mages] and warriors stayed.

 That damned [Druid]! Ill kill him! Erininside! We need barriers, Montressa! Well have to st them! Grand Magus!

 Bezale roared. The other [Mages] were running, shouting at each other to erect walls, cast [Fireball] spells

 Teriarch didnt move. He looked up at the roof. Then at Xrn. The Centenium had raised her staff. But she was waiting on Teriarch. The two locked gazes.

 Leave him. This is his duty.

 That was all the half-Elf said. He turned back and walked into the inn. Erin stared at his back. Leave him? Who

 From the roof of the inn, Nalthaliarstrelous leapt. Impossibly far, soaring through the air like Grimalkin had done when the Wyverns attacked. Hended on a distant hill and strode forwards, robes fluttering. And the Shield Spiders converged on him.

 They ignored the inn. They ignored the [Mages], the walls of Liscor where horns were ring. They cared only for one person.

 The [Druid]. 

 He waited until the first wave was nearly on him and then struck the ground with his staff. Erin saw him raise his arms.

 The Shield Spiders racing up a valley between two hills had one second of warning. Then the two distant hills rolled towards each other. The dirt and soil mergedand the Shield Spiders were buried.

 What?

 The [Innkeeper] saw Nalthaliarstrelous stride forwards onto the barend. Shield Spiders came at him. He struck the ground againand it turned to mud. The spiders sank into the mud, suffocating, struggling. The [Druid] spun his staff. The earth opened and a rift sucked thousands more into it. It snapped closed. The soil crushed the Shield Spiders, smashing them to bits.

 Dead gods. What level is that [Druid]?

 Zevara snapped,mand scrolls in her ws. She saw the [Druid] whirl. This time earthen spires shot out of the ground, impaling the Shield Spiders in a huge radius around him.

 Hes funneling all of them at him. Its all area-spells.

 Grimalkin had leapt onto the roof. A [Siege Fireball] burned in one w. He saw Nalthaliarstrelous spin. He ran down the hill and the entire hill turned into an earthen avnche that buried another wave.

 Geomancer. Hes not bad. I could still beat him. But this is the best of their kind. Watch him. This is who you will fight.

 Xrn remarked to Belgrade. The [Tactician] turned to her, shaking.

 Nalthaliarstrelous made a hole in the world. Spiders poured into it. The sinkhole opened deeper, deeper as he stood on a small ledge, a small pir. And then the soil moved back together.

 Hes taken magic from the inn. But hes running out. Those are too many spells.

 Hedault felt his wand vibrating in his hand. He saw Nalthaliarstrelous drop to one knee, panting. The Shield Spiders flooded at him, greatly reduced.

 Why are they attacking him? Even insects should retreat.

 Chaldion ignored the look Yellow Stters gave him. He turned to Teriarch for confirmation. The half-Elf shrugged.

 [Druids].

 [Challenge of the Wilds]. He wants to erase their foothold on the Floodins.

 Shassa breathed. Mrsha saw Nalthaliarstrelous on his knee. He was panting wildly. She could feel his exhaustion. But the spiders

 Do something!

 Lyte shouted in horror. Grimalkin pointed. The [Siege Fireball] blew a section of them apart. The other [Mages] rained spells at a distance at the ck wave. But Nalthaliarstrelous was their target.

 As they came for him, the [Druid]s body grew. Mrsha saw brown fur race over his body. His form changed

 Dead gods.

 Erin heard someone breathe. The Dire Bear form rose. It crushed thergest spider with a roar, ws tearing through even the thick armor with contemptuous ease. Nalthaliarstrelous brought his arms down, smashing the body.

 The spiders swarmed him. Erin lost track of the [Druid]; the hill poured with spiders. But something was thrashing about as they tried to bite through his fur and flesh. Crushing them. Tearing them apart. Eating some of them, or spitting out fragments from his jaws.

 From The Wandering Inn and Liscors walls came spells. Grimalkin grimly sted pockets of spiders with his spells. So did Montressa and Palt; others shot arrows, like Bird. But it was all from afar.

 Nalthaliarstrelous held the hill. He must have used potions; Mrsha twice saw-felt the [Druid] gging, and then a surge of fury and vitality. He cut and tore across the spiders and they refused to stop attacking him.

 Untilit ended. There was no signal. One moment the hill was boilingthe next, the Shield Spiders were fleeing. They fled over thousands of their dead, across the soil where buried, crushed spidersy. A fraction of the army that had assailed him.

 Mrsha tried to run, then. But Lyte and Shassa both held her back. It was Grimalkin, along with Numbtongue and a few others who approached the hill.

 Nalthaliarstrelousy naked amid the destruction. His body was covered with blood, bites. He didnt move as the party extricated him.

 But he was alive.

 -

 It was just spiders. Saliss could do it. OrMagus Grimalkin. At some pointspiders cant hurt you. Keldrass could probably survive with the Heartme Breastte.

 The shaky opinion came from one of the guests. Later, in the inn, they analyzed it.

 It was just spiders. They had been crawling all over one another to get to Nalthaliarstrelous. No wonder his spells had been so effective. The [Druid] had challenged them and he was an earth-specialist with Erins inn to back him up.

 No wonder hed won. Absolutely. Plus, the others had helped! [Siege Fireballs] hade from Magus Grimalkin. It waswas

 Olesm didnt add to the appraisal of Nalthaliarstrelouss abilities. He just sat there, trying to imagine a conventional army fighting that. Or even if the Shield Spiders had attacked Liscors walls.

 One. Two. Three. Four? Nothree. Four if you give him that artifact.

 Mavi was counting. Olesm looked at her.

 Four what?

 She smiled at him. Then she pointed.

 Xrn. Saliss. Eldavin. And then Grimalkin.

 Those are the ones who could do that. Im not sure about Eldavin, but the other threeyes. Grimalkin might need the Heartme Breastte, though.

 Olesm looked at the [Sinew Magus]. Grimalkins face was unreadable, but his jaw was clenched. The [Lady] kissed Olesm lightly and he looked up at her. She smiled, less shaken than the others.

 That is what power looks like, Olesm. It was a good lesson.

 The Drakes jaw worked.

 For who?

 -

 The Antinium watched the [Druid]. They looked at Xrns calm expression. She was appraising the [Druid].

 For his part, all Nalthaliarstrelous did was weep. Mrsha hadnt realized it. But the [Druid] was crying. So was Shassa. But Nalthaliarstrelous cried longer.

 Tears ran down into his beard. But all he said to Erin, Lytethe others who now treated him with respectand wariness, was this.

 They have died. They must be hunted. The city must do this. But the nests can be destroyed. And if they arethe Floodins will be bountiful again.

 Iremember Tekshia saying that once, there were all kinds of [Shepherds] here. And you could walk up and down the Floodins.

 Selys mumbled. Nalthaliarstrelouss tears dripped into his beard. He was sad. Mrsha touched his leg. Then, why had he done it?

 Because it had to be done. We are [Druids]. Not all would do it. But littlendfriendthey would have eaten the world in their hunger.

 That was what he told her. And when he rose, the [Druid] leaned on his staff, looking worn and wan. But that was the lesson.

 Some of us are warriors of great destruction. We burn forests that new life might live. We do battle that bnce might be restored. In old ages, we fought the tree-folk when they tried to exterminate viges. Then we were their allies when the small viges became cities that threatened to destroy the great forests.

 He touched his chest. Closed his eyes.

 We failed. Now, most of us are guardians of small ces. Connections to the wilds that speak withw. I am thergest of the small.

 Erin Solstice looked at him. How dare he say that after that disy? But the [Druid] turned away. He looked at Shassathe other [Druid] bowed to him.

 I will consult with Oteslia. When I am able. I have duties here, but I wille.

 Of course. Walk well, wild keeper.

 They nodded to each other. Shassa bid farewell to Mrsha as well.

 If fate allows itwe shall meet again, little one.

 Solemnly, Mrsha shook the Drakes w. She would not forget this. And she had seen what it was to be a [Druid]. Nowshe wondered if [Wizards] were recruiting.

 Well, only half-seriously. The Drakes eyes crinkled up. So did Nalthaliarstrelous. He also paused to say goodbye.

 Small orrge. Each thing matters. I entrust you with the bees. I have no more strength for a fortnight, save at great need. If you are no more a [Druid] than you are this daythat is well. But remember what we are: neither good nor evil.

 She nodded solemnly. The [Druid] ruffled her hair.

 If youck a teacher,ndfriend, wild child, I will teach you at ater date.

 He stood, and slowly walked past Erin and Lyte. They bade him farewell. Erin stared at the [Druid]s back. Lyte waved, calling out polite thanks. When he was gone, she turned to Erin.

 We are never letting him back into the inn.

 It was hard to argue with that. Then againErin wanted to know how Lyte was going to stop him.

 Anyways. It was just a day in the inn. The day turned to night. Ryoka Griffin red at the Silver Swords in Mad Madains inn.

 Mrsha leveled up. But just a tiny bit.

 That night, someone hammered a nail into a door. Now, the [Garden of Sanctuary] had a sign. It read as follows:

 Private garden; no [Druids] allowed.

 Mrsha took it down the next day.

 After Chapter Thoughts: Well, were over my projected chapter length by10,000 words. And again, this is a suitable interlude where NOTHING AT ALL

 You know what; I just wanted to call it A Meeting of [Druids]. Thats a cool interlude title. I hope you enjoyed the craziness. And while not as restful as I would have liked, I enjoyed it a lot. I wish I could have added a few more scenes, but I pushed the limits as-is.

 For now, Ill just say that my break allows me to write like this! And there is much to thank from these wonderful artists!

 Im featuring two artists this time. Firstly, Plushie. Who has made a bunch of Mrsha-emotes! Were already using them in the Discord server, but theyre so cute on their own! Also, theres an amazing picture of Bird the Hunter and more!

 The second artist is Eris, who has done a sprite of Ryoka Griffin! It would be great in a videogamegive thanks to both of them! Have a good night and thanks for /boboplushie

 Mrshas, Bird, Me?, and more by Plushie!

 Pixel-Ryoka by Eris!

17kNovel

Interlude A Meeting of [Druids]