Book 7: Chapter 52_The Wandering Inn

Book 7: Chapter 52

 Ryoka, Fierre, and Smani were over two thirds of their way to Invrisil when the news about the Raskghar caught up to them. Ratherthey had to go to the Mages Guild and get a letter from Mrsha addressed to Ryoka.

 Dear Ryokathe letter began, because of course, you had to have manners and Mrshas mother was a [Princess]

 

 Dear Ryoka,

 Raskghar have left the dungeon. They are prisoners in the city, but Nokha isnt there. Everyone is worried. Hurry up ande here.

 Mrsha

 Of course, that made Ryoka run faster, but she was still a City Runner. She slowed Fierre and Smani down.

 But she wasing. And if you looked or listenedthey were drawing together again. Faces seen and never seen at that inn.

 Away from Invrisil, Laken Godart was fulfilling a debt to Ryoka. Some of her needs he couldnt oblige her, but a party? He had gotten a few RSVPs from nobles that Rie could lean on. The ones whod attended his gathering during the time of the Goblin raidshad politely refused.

 But he had his own concerns which dovetailed with the party. Riverfarm would be ready for Ryokas guests.

 Some of it was design. Some of itcoincidence. For instance, Ryoka had not told them she was going to Invrisil. Certainly, after thest few encounters she was not kindly disposed to the three Gold-rank adventurers sitting in the wagon headed far more slowly to Invrisil.

 It could be as long as a weeks trip. But they were headed back. For a few reasons. Mostly, to see about a famous Dwarf-smith that Dawil thought he could get in with. Also, to meet one of wes old friends in the area

 That wasnt the surprising thing. The surprising thing was that they hadpany who also knew Ryoka. Two people, in fact.

 So you both know Ryoka Griffin?

 Well, I cant say as I have personally known her, Lord wes. More like an encounter one time.

 Termin tipped his hat as he ordered the two mules to stop flirting and keep going. He chuckled.

 Crazy, meeting a Gold-rank team who just met her. She doing well? She was rescuing this team from these evil frogs

 Wailer Frogs?

 The very ones. Actually, I owe her a bit of a debt. Leveled up from that encounter, so I did. But howd you meet with her, sir?

 The [Wagon Driver] nodded, much pleased. He turned to thest rider on the wagonwell, Termin was doing a bit of a passenger shuttle so people kept getting on and off, riding with the goods. But the ones bound for Invrisil, hisst stop numbered four in total.

 The recalcitrant young man looked up.

 We stayed at the same inn. Im just moving cities to earn more money. Reizmelts dried up.

 Fist fighting. You know, Id have given you a shot if you hadntid out that huge fellow. Must have been three hundred pounds. You should have tried it, wes.

 It wouldnt have been fair. Without my armorand with it, certainly not.

 The [Knight] demurred. Falene rolled her eyes. She objected to the trivial pursuits both herpanions were on. Wistram called to her. Butshed heard some Wistram [Mages] were in the inn, so she had her own reasons for going too.

 But that was the thing about travel. The Silver Swords were moving slowly, able to run off and y some monsters before catching up with the wagon. Ryoka and the other two were moving for Invrisil as fast as they could. Yet they would be toote. Had been toote, for the Raskghar.

 Not that they had been needed. The attack had been a non-attack. But the problem with things you didnt kill was that they remained.

 -

 Erin Solstice had been intending to end her day with a bracing game of chess. Perhaps even a few games of cards with Numbtongue who had developed something of an addiction to it. Or perhaps an addiction to gambling.

 Instead, she rose before dawn after a sleepless night. She had sleptin that way where you forgot youd rested because youd kept waking up and falling back into uneasy slumber.

 As a girl, Erin would sometimes watch a horror movie or see some creepy picture and have nights like that on Earth. That had been one thing, with only the phantoms of her mind forpany.

 Knowing there were actually things out there had meant that Erin got probably two entire hours of sleep out of the eight she had been sleeping.

 Only her Skills had given her enough rest to function. And even thenErin looked around the [Garden of Sanctuary].

 Little sleeping forms. Numerous bedrollsand a bed. Erin passed a hand over her weary face. Dozens of figures, actually.

 Silently, she checked the two objects shed been sleeping with. Not next to herso there was no risk of rolling into them, but close enough to be grabbed in a moment.

 A knifea frying pan, and closer than that impromptu bar-weapona glowing, green jar. Erin examined it in the faint light before the dawn. She was careful not to touch the edge of the knife as she unsheathed it. Normally, she didnt even use it for cooking.

 As for the jarErin looked it over, making sure the seal was tight, and not corroded. She ignored the pan. Pans were pans. Erin put the knife on her belt, stretching. Then she remembered

 Potions. Erin checked her belt. Two healing potions, one Tripvineno, that was in the bag of holding. She sighed as she put the pan inside the magical bag.

 Erin checked the jar of acid onest time for cracks or ws in the ss. Honestly, she wasnt happy even carrying it in a bag of holding. If it brokeyou had less than ten seconds before whatever the acid did probably wouldnt ever heal.

 But as weapons wentErin carefully ced it in her bag of holding and stood up. She stretched again as she looked around her garden.

 She knew how many people were in and out of it. Two had leftNumbtongue, which was fine, and Palt. Both okay. Even so, Erin checked the numbers within, expanding hersenses. Her aura? Checking her garden for intruders.

 Surely she would have noticed. But Erin did it anyways because she felt uneasy.

 Mrsha and Lyte, check.Pawn, snoozing in an Antinium-huddle with the Workers and six Soldierscheck. The Soldiers were clearly awakethey were staring at Erin.

 Little snoring buzzesing from Ekirras nose for all hed been so nervous Saliss had given Erin a drop of sleepy-stuff to put in a cup of blue juice for him. He slept with his parents and other Gnoll families whod asked

 Visma, curled up with her parents, holding onto one of the Mrsha-toys. The silver ball Numbtongue had made. Better make sure she didnt try to keep it

 Bird wasnt here. Hed refused to leave his tower, iming, urately, that he didnt need to sleep and that the inn was far more secure with him there. He was still up there.

 Kevin, Rose, Joseph, Imani, Troy, Leon, Galinacheck. Erin ran down the few others in the [Garden of Sanctuary]. And those in the inn.

 Few had wanted to sleep in the rooms when Erin had offered the garden for the night. Even people from the city had approached her when theyd heard Erin talking about it. After allit was probably the safest ce in all of Liscor and Erin wasnt making that up.

 The people whod refused were Bezale and Montressa, whod put up wards on their rooms, and the yers of Liscorhalf had wanted to be with their families or slept in Invrisil given their ongoing thing.

 The other half were here with said families or friends, snoring away. They were using bedding from the inn, turned into bedrolls; it was Lyte who had arranged for a bed to be imported here for herself and Mrsha, and set up a small space for them.

 She was holding Mrsha tight and Erin didnt wake either. The [Innkeeper] exhaled as she finished her check.

 Nothing happen when I was out? Yellow Stters?

 She turned and the [Sergeant] paused. He had walked up on her from behind.

 No, Erin Solstice. No reports from Liscor, either. I have checked every twenty minutes with Purple Smiles, who is deployed there, along with Belgrade.

 He spoke. An Antinium with a voice that made Kilkran remark that hed fear for his job if Yellow Stters were anything but Antinium. Erin looked at the Soldier and had a sh of another Antinium.

 We are here to protect you.

 Would she ever forget any of the other moments like these? Perhaps not. They all shed across Erins mind. Some more pressing than the others.

 For instance, the Painted Antinium were here in force. Erin had two squads in the [Garden], and she knew that forty were in the inn, hiding in the basement, resting, patrollingeach one a Painted Soldier or Worker-Archers and thus superior to even normal Antinium.

 The night Skinner attacked would not repeat itself. The Raskghars raids would not repeat themselves.

 We live and learn.

 Yes.

 Yellow Stters watched her. Erin looked around. That was the thing about surviving stuff. You tended to not want it to happen again. Zevara had requested six hundred Antinium Soldiers to patrol every inch of the city and hold the walls. And no one wasining about that.

 Not today. The [Innkeeper] walked towards the door. Yellow Stters followed.

 What are you doing, Erin Solstice?

 He was formal and not at the same time. He did not call her Miss Solstice these days. Which Erin liked. But he did use her full name. Erin turned as she walked towards a door waiting for her along the walls.

 Someone needs to make breakfast. And since the staff are all here or on vacation

 It may be dangerous.

 The [Sergeant] moved to block her. Undeterred, Erin walked leftthe door was in front of her again.

 If theres a monster in the inn, its both invisible and it can evade my [Innkeeper]-senses, Yellow Stters. My innsense. Nothat sounds horrible. Have you had anything to eat?

 Yellow Stters hesitated. He seemed so <emrge, despite not being that much bigger than regr Soldiers. But Erin was so familiar

 The Antinium have brought field-rations.

 The look of horror on Erins face made it quite clear that she knew exactly what Antinium rations looked like. She pushed open the door, shaking her head

 Every Antinium in themon room stood up as Erin stepped through the door right outside her kitchen. A dozen bows raised and lowered instantly. Soldiers prepared their fistsand stopped.

 The young woman reacted with the same speed; she lowered the knife and jar.

 Its just me, guys. Erin.

 The Antinium looked at her as she waved. As if they needed rification on thatst bit. Erin sighed as her heart decided it was time for a sudden sprint in the morning.

 Everyones on edge. Hey, Pink Stripes? Nice to see you.

 Erin made finger-guns at a Soldier standing closest to her. He copied the gesture with all four hands, slowly.

 Outgunned, Erin looked around. She caught sight of herself in therge scrying mirror. Fortified inn, armed Erin, Antinium ready for a fight.

 What if this had been the Erin who arrived in this world way back when? Almost a good thing she hadntthe Goblins whod attacked her and the Rock Crab wouldnt have survived those meetings. Erin walked into the kitchen and stared at a Worker with a bow sitting next to it.

 Archer C2, get that out of your mouth. Ill get breakfast. Anyone want food? You know what? Ill just

 The Worker slowly spat out the bit of Antinium rationsthe bar ofthe congealed and dried substance that

 Thesemi-solid matter that was slightly crumbly, but was lightweight, kept for over a month, and which even rodents wouldnt eat. Erin still had to worry about pests, even with her [Field of Preservation]. The Children of the Grain Sack had taught her that, so she did arm her traps.

 Shed tried using the Antiniums field rations until she realized nothing would eat it, not even bugs.

 A bee buzzed out of the doorway, saw the room full of predators, and immediately buzzed into the kitchen. Erin, yawning, was grabbing all the pre-mades. Not Imanis more elegant dishes, but the old standards she made.

 Pizza, big pots of soup you could warm updamn.

 They cant eat these pizzas. Wherere Garrys special pizzas with his dough? Lets seeoho!

 The oho was because Imani hadbeled everything. One of the things Erin had never done.

 Antinium-safe foods was a pantry with a lot of space in it. So much so that Erin had food for all the Antinium just from it alone. She began heating things up. Meanwhile, Apista crawled around.

 The bee wasnt hungry, per se. Since the Garden had an ample supply of all the nts she could want and she had a small supply of emergency-honey she was adding to.

 However, she was a bitjazzed. She could take the edge off. Mrsha and Lyte had been worried, and the air, to the bee, was a bit tense. Apista cast about and then flew out of a window Erin cracked open to let some fresh air in and the smoke from the fires out.

 Hm. Hmokay. Hey guys! Food! Come and get it. Help yourselves.

 Erin put Soldier-safe bowls and the first pot of soup out after a few minutes. Antinium clustered around. Assured by Erin that the bread was Garrys and thus safe, theythered it up with butter and dipped it into the richand buggysoup.

 Funny thing about Antinium. The ones like Yellow Stters had no problem doing anything. But Erin took the extra minute because she knew Antinium to make a few pick up the butter knife.

 Put butter on the bread. Its optional, but youre allowed to do it, see? All of you, have one buttered slice. Thats an order.

 She phrased it like that because if you gave an Antinium a loaf of bread and something optional, they wouldnt ever do the optional bit. Like condimentsyou had to teach them it was alright to use up a stick of butter. It wasthem thinking a bit of ketchup was worth more than they were.

 Just a small thing. But you had to do it in Erins mind. So one of the things Ishkr taught [Servers] was to add condiments to an Antinium tables order so theyd eat it. Dont give them the jar of ketchup! And yesit was a jar. Erin hadnt developed squeeze-technology yet, at least in a way she was happy about.

 Greedy Drakes now, theyll take the jar with them. Especially the food-thieves. Dont see them around.

 Erin shot a nce around the inn, as if checking for the spies who liked to frequent her inn. To her surpriseshe realized the inn had a few people loitering outside.

 Busybodies? Erin would attend to food first. Food made the world better. Speaking of which

 She looked around for her mother before she bit into a lukewarm piece of pizza. Justbecause her mother would have had something to say about that for breakfast. An odd thing, to think of her mother. Erin really didntso the pizza bites swallow was a bit hard for reasons other than consistency.

 Mom nowher mom didnt understand the joys of cold pizza over a morning game of chess. Whether that was in the morning or night didnt matter mom! She wasnt gaining weight!

 Erin prodded at her stomach just in case. Decent, decent. Lasica could always make her famous weight-loss menu.

 The joys of a magical world. Hey, can you all help me bring the food out? Noyou can finish your breakfast first

 A dozen Soldiers walked into the kitchen. Erin sighed, but directed them with the goods into themon room. And then, after a moments thought, she had them roll one of the round tables into the garden and set up there.

 That proved to be a good move because people were waking upor hadnt sleptand few looked like they wanted to leave. Erin let them handle the food, like Ekirras mother, who thanked Erin profusely until the [Innkeeper] shushed them both. Little Ekirra was still sleeping.

 Bird needed his food so Erin brought it up to him on a te.

 Hey Bird

 He didnt draw his bow at her. Probably because he knew she wasing. Bird sat in his tower.

 Hello, Erin. Is that food for me?

 She smiled at him. Bird was as calm as could be.

 Yes, Bird. I have some of that gSaltbird you loved so much. And eggs.

 Oho. A bird breakfast! This is good. Thank you, Erin.

 But Bird didnt touch the food. Erin saw him looking around.

 What is it, Bird?

 Normally hed descend on the food. The Worker sighed.

 My hands are full. I must remain at full-vignce and I cannot eat just yet. I will eat when the sunes up.

 But you have four arms.

 Bird nodded.

 And they are all full, see? I cannot load and fire with only two arms with any efficiency, Erin.

 He had two arrows in his spare hands, his bow in one hand, and another hand on the arrow nocked and ready to go. Erin knew how fast he could loosehed taken 1st ce in an indoor archery range one time and really ruined the old champions day.

 Maybe you could eat with one hand, Bird?

 But that would decrease my firing time by point

 Bird. Maybe its safe to be slightly less optimal?

 He considered this.

 What if you fed me?

 Erin passed him the te. Bird put one arrow down and sighed.

 I will eat. But if we all die because there was an inefficiency in my fire speed, I will be slightly upset!

 Okay, Bird. You go sleep when everyones up, okay?

 Yes, Erin.

 -

 It amazed others how calm Erin was. The Raskghar were in Liscor. The killers who had eaten hearts of Gnolls, who grew smarter with each full moon and the two moons were both still pretty full!

 And yetshe had done this. It was not that Erin was untroubled. But she was ready. Breakfast done, Erin leaned against a wall and decided

 Interloper-people. Maybe I should grab one of the crossbows.

 She thought she knew who they were, but they were on the edge of her inns radius of detection and there was enough reason to be suspicious. Erin looked around for a crossbow. Numbtongue had hidden two dozen around the inn.

 Right here. No. righthere? No?

 And she realized she hadnt any idea where his secretpartments were. He kept showing her and she kept zing over the details. Erin peered at a chair leg. She eyed a loose floorboardno? One of the Antinium stopped to stare at Erin climbing onto a table to inspect one of the beams in the ceiling.

 Anyone seen a crossbow hiding around here?

 She was just giving up on the crossbow thing. It wasnt as if she was that great a shotpared to her aim with an acid jar, anyways. Then, Erin heard an angry voice outside.

 Get back here! Get back h

 A bee flew out of the kitchen, carrying a trail of smoke. Erin and the Antinium stared as Apista buzzed back into the [Garden of Sanctuary].

 Carrying a full cigar. She had purloined it from the owner, who clip-clopped into the room a moment after her.

 You damned pest! Thats my

 The drug-carrying bee disappeared into the Garden as Palt stopped. He saw Erin and coughed into a fist.

 Oh, hey, Erin..

 Did you get that bee hooked on?

 Erin stared at Apista and then at the Centaur. He raised his hands defensively.

 No! Probably not? Im amazed it likes my cigars. But since it doesnt payer, hi, Erin. Did you sleep well?

 Mhm. Thanks for help with those [Calm] and [Soothe] spells.

 The Centaurs face softened.

 My pleasure. Hows Imani?

 Still asleep.

 The two stood together. Palt produced a cigara long, thin one this time. Bright orange. He lit a fingerand hesitated. He looked sidelong at Erin and she waved a hand.

 Go for it. Todays a rough day, anyways. I could almost use one.

 She flicked the cigar he proffered her away.

 Almost.

 The [Illusionist] gratefully lit up. After a few puffsthe smoke flowed into a small ball over his headhe spoke out of the corner of his mouth.

 Good thought you had with the [Garden of Sanctuary]. Ingenious, really.

 Mm. Its obvious. All my smart ideas are.

 Sleep in the Garden. Reallyit just made sense. Palt shrugged.

 I didnt think of it and no one else did. You know, I looked it up. ErI was doing a bit of digging. With my factionjust out of necessity, you know

 Go on.

 Erin gave him a look as she decided she had room for likehalf a pizza slice or something nice. One of the boiled eggs with pepper, maybe. Palt exhaled more smoke.

 Its an Inheritance Skill. And since you probably dont knowits a Skill that only one or a few people get at a time. Theres another famous carrier in Izrilwell, I can name four total worldwide including you, now. Lots more in secret, perhaps.

 What, the [Garden of Sanctuary]?

 Erin blinked. But she remembered what the Grand Mage had told her. An [Empress] had first owned this Skill. Palt nodded.

 It isor wasa secluded ce for those of royal sses. asionally others. A [Healer], an actual [Gardener]youre using it um, differently.

 How so?

 The Centaur gestured at the door.

 They used it as a refuge. Not as somewhere where youd let someone sleep. Mind youits secure. The most secure ce I could name. You couldwell, build a room in there, couldnt you? Live there. Unable to be harmed except by someone of exceptional levels. I know some people whod pay you a thousand gold a month for that.

 Erin nodded absently. Then she looked at the [Garden of Sanctuary] and shook her head.

 But it cant support everyone in there right now. Its too small. And if the inn goes, so does it. Also

 Also?

 He prompted her after a moment. Erin looked into the Garden, where more people were waking up, then up at Palt.

 Its a great safe-room. Even if it wasnt designed like that. I dont use most things like how theyre designed.

 She nodded at the magical door. Palt chuckled.

 True. But why not build a house in there or something?

 Because the inns supposed to be a home. If I need to stay in the [Garden of Sanctuary], somethings gone wrong.

 She looked up at him seriously. Palt nodded after another long pull.

 At least itsforting to people now.

 Yeah. Any word from Liscor?

 I could check. But I just went outside to smoke. Numbtongues practicing with his sword.

 The [Innkeeper] nced towards a window. The Hobgoblin had been on a hill blooming with flowers when Palt saw him.

 Hes fine. I think hes just mad he didnt get to cut any of the Raskghar. He feels guilty.

 Not his fault. He cant be here forever.

 The [Illusionist] was pragmatic. Palt trotted over to the bowls of soup, saw the floating acid-flies, and trotted back.

 Besides, Saliss of Lights handled the situation better than anyone else couldve.

 Erin ducked her head. That was true too. He wasnt here todaybut she vividly remembered the [Alchemist] in the moments after the attack had ended.

 Saliss had been posing with Ekirra and Mrsha while wearing the privacy box in the garden. Comically. Hed reassured everyone that the Raskghar were dead, let everyone else run around and investigateand yed up the silliness for the frightened children.

 Hed also killed over thirty Raskghar in less than a minute. Erin had seen the bodiesor what remained.

 And here I thought my acid jars were dangerous. Does he harvest acid too?

 Maybe. But he probably buys and enhances it. Theres a reason why hes called the most dangerous Named Adventurer for five minutes. Dead gods and hoof rot, Id hate to be on his bad side. Hed do your curry trick with Isceilonly with acid.

 Palt wore the same expression Erin had had while thinking about her mother for a moment. Erin nodded. Saliss was capable of protecting anyone he wanted.

 Protection, safety, it wasnt the real issue today, was it? Everyone was vignt but the Raskghar were detained! In jail! They were safe, and this was just worrying.

 Because Nokha hadnt been with them. Erin bit her lip. But would Nokha dare attack this inn? Palt could probably take her in a fight if he saw hering.

 Yet, it was the things you didnt seeing. That went bump in the night if they were clumsy. The things you couldnt predict. Erin was less experienced with that. Most of her fights had been fast, to the death, and immediate.

 This was messy. Raskghar prisoners. Potential enemies skulking about. Erin shook her head.

 And why are they here? I had my suspicions and Numbtongue wasPalt? Can you walk out with me one sec?

 Something wrong?

 The Centaur stopped smoking. He looked quizzically at Erin. She nced towards a point on the far wall with nothing special in particr about. But she had that look that said she wasnt looking at the wall.

 I dont think so. At least, not with the Antinium around. Just in case.

 That didnt reassure the [Illusionist]. He began muttering spell buffs and casting them on himself. He wasnt Isceil, whod been able to decimate an area with a single breath, or Montressa who could throw up barrier spells or Bezalewell, he was closest to Bezale and Ulinde. But he could cast a lot of enchantments on himself if he had prep time.

 Even so, he was support. And he reminded Erin of that. She just shrugged.

 Its probably fine. Its not strangers.

 And if its trouble?

 Acid jar.

 Ahand if they block or dodge that?

 Youve gotta take modest risks, Palt.

 I do. Gambling. Not with anything that might hurt so much as a hair on my body. Erwhere are we going?

 Erin Solstice stopped outside. She stood in the grass, looking over Liscor. A summer day was beginning. The sun had yet to appear past the peaks in the High Passes but the air was fresh, the day as yet cool. The Flood ins looked fairly lovely.

 They were alone on the hill outside of The Wandering Inn. The citys walls were fully-staffed and mage-lights were illuminating the ground outside of the city. Palt heard a distant call, identifying both of them.

 High alert in short. The kind of thing that made him feel safe. Erin stared ahead. No one was in the outhouses. Numbtongue was by himself on that hill.

 This Raskghar things scary.

 Um. Yes, it is. But I have calming tonics and spells if you want

 Erin nced at Palt and he fell silent. She went on.

 Its so dangerous. Im so d Im being protected. By Antinium. And Numbtongue. And you, Palt.

 Well, I

 He fell silent again and stopped preening. Erin had given him another look. This timePalt began ncing around with his magic, keeping his eyes on the citys walls.

 [Detect Magic]. Nothing but the wallsErins inn was lit up and the door was blinding.

 [Detect Heat]. Hm. Palt ran hotter than Erin, but nothingwas that a colony of rats just over there? Erin wouldnt be happy about that. But nothing

 I mean, I love the protection. Not that I, personally need it. You sort of wonder why everyone likes to protect me. Since the Raskghar attacked Liscor. And why now? Itd sure be greatif I had protection when the Wyverns attacked, yknow? But there are reasons. StillI like knowing whos protecting me, and why.

 The Centaur said nothing.

 [Scrying: Palt Fenrisol]. Fun fact? Erin Solstice was invisible to [Appraisal] and [Scrying] spells these days, thanks to the ring Saliss had given her andsomething else. Even the Elusive Lot had problems and they could scry past Palts defenses. But he saw nothing.

 Sure is a thing. Yup, yup. Ayup. Yuppers. Yeperoonie. Yep

 The [Illusionist] heard a sigh.

 I think,rades, that weve been made.

 A Gnoll, Drake, and five Human men rose out of the grass a foot in front of Palt. He freaked out.

 Burn my tail! [Haste]! [Shadow Leap]! Run for

 He grabbed at Erin. She hadnt been expecting that. Palt tried to turn and gallop into the inn as his spell snatched at him. But he tripped.

 Erin and Palt flickered out of the air and crashed out of the doorway in a heap. Erin went whubpgh as Paltnded half on her.

 Wilovan, Ratici, and the five Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings adjusted their hats and stared as Eriny on the ground and Palts hooves waved frantically before he got up. The Gnoll tipped his hat to Erin after shed stopped being squished.

 Pardon about that, Miss Solstice. It seems we mightve been a bit too conspicuous, as it were, and Ratici here misjudged how long your ear is.

 What level is that Skill?

 The Drake groused. The other Brothers looked amused as they adjusted vests and straightened caps. Erin stared up at Wilovan as he held out a paw. The other Drake, the one with the cap, helped her up.

 Seems we have a bit to talk about, Miss Erin.

 Yeah.

 Erin wheezed. She would have felt more triumphant if Palt hadntnded on her. That guy was heavy.

 -

 Something was wrong in the world. Twenty minutester, Erin Solstice was sitting in the inn across from the Gentlemen Callers.

 Few people were in the inn. Temile had checked in from Invrisil and the door was currently ferrying people from Pass to Liscorbut the inn wasnt open.

 Most of the people were in the [Garden of Sanctuary] and noting out. They had their entertainment.

 Joseph had a football, but hed been told by Lyte that if he so much as kicked it into a single one of the fragile Sages Grass nts shed bury him headfirst. So the others were sitting, talkingbut mostly, helping with nting some of the seeds or cuttings that Lyte and Erin had been meaning to get to.

 Weeding the jungle biome in the [Garden of Sanctuary] and arguing about what was a weed in the thick foliage. Ekirra and Visma were trying to get Mrsha to help them make adder to grab a ripe cocoa pod.

 All was wellon the surface. But Erin felt the tension. Stillthat wasnt what was wrong with the world.

 What was wrong was that the good fellows had turned their backs until she put her shirt back on. And Bezale was smacking Palt hard as Montressa checked Erins midsection.

 Any more pain?

 No. I think its good.

 Erin had cracked a rib when Palt fell on her. Two, actually. Whichto be fair, wasnt exactly surprising when a horse fell on you.

 I am so sorry

 Its fine. Healing potions already working.

 Cracked ribs werent as bad as broken bones. But Erin would have loved for Pisces to be here. Shed survived Skinner withokay, maybe it wasnt as fair. But Wyvern attacks? Crelers? And this was how she went out?

 Death by horse.

 I said, Im sorry.

 Palt was beet-red. He might have been a skilled [Illusionist], but he didnt exactly have the most nimble build.

 Erin eyed the Gentlemen Callers. They had refused to look until she put her clothing on. Not that shed even exposed more than navel and said ribs. She knew beachgoers who were far more scantily d than she had been.

 But they wereThe Gentlemen Callers. And the five Human men whom had introduced themselves to Erin and were politely helping themselves to a non-Antinium spread of food?

 The Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings. And they werecriminals.

 What astonished Erin was that they came out and said it. Twenty minutes was all it took. Five minutes really; patching Erin up had taken longer, mainly just to find a female pair of hands to administer the potion properly.

 So you guys are a gang?

 The Gentlemen Callers looked at each other. Wilovan, the burly Gnoll with the nearly-top hat and Ratici, the capped Drake who was short and slender. They nced past Erin.

 Its a delicate subject, Miss Erin. Id hate to insist, but

 One look was all it took. Palt grabbed Montressa and Bezale.

 Why dont we stand over here, you two?

 Erin blinked. She saw the Centaur shuffle them off and mouth something at her which shepletely missed. And it was something because Erin was certain none of the three [Mages] were listening in magically. Beza made a gesture to Montressa and Palt began shaking his head like Mrsha after a rainstorm.

 The Gentlemen Callers are two big Faces, Erin. Thats likea ruler of the underworld. You dont make them your enemies. Theyre part of the Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings. Theyre a smaller gang, but theyre elite. Erinthese guys are big yers in northern Izril. I have no idea why theyre here! Even one of the Elusive Lot would have trouble getting them to move, let alone send the Callers here!

 That had been Palts whispered exnation when hed put three and three together. It had confused Erin, but Ratici had made it clearer.

 Were criminals, Miss Solstice. Call us a gangcall us [Rogues] if you like. We prefer to be called upstanding sortsbut only byparison. We were hired to look out for you.

 That was easier to understand. Wilovan tipped his hat as Erin turned back from the [Mages].

 To be more precise, in the interest of honesty, Miss Erin, Ratici here is the finest [Thief] youd every eyes on, which is an indictment, of course, in his line of work as it were. And Im a humble [Thug]. A fellow with a club who taps folks and absconds with coin. Dishonest men that we are, you can see why wed hesitate to introduce ourselves before now.

 Erin had noticed this before, but the way they talked and even acted had roots in her countrys past. Not entirely one-to-one, but the Gentlemen Callers had a style about them.

 But they were criminals. Honestly, the first Erin had really met. There was Piscesand Lyte, and the thugs and Grev. But these two were actual professionalspared to the amateurs.

 A [Thug] and a [Thief]. So you two are jerks who beat people up and then steal everything they own?

 She expected them to bridle at that, but the two just smiled. Wilovan touched a furry hand to his cap in a kind of salute.

 High-level, so a bit more than that, but we did start there. And I regret to say there was a time I roughed up any sort, Miss Solstice. But were part of the Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings, and we follow acode. If we prey on those with coinit isnt those down on their luck. Never children, never decent sorts.

 Ah.

 They were Robin Hoods of this world. But when Erin made theparison without the name, the two chuckled.

 Hardly, hardly, Miss Solstice. We dont give to the poor save by way of spendingrge at a favorite restaurant or such. Were simply honestly dishonest folk in that we pick our targets with more care than sayanother gang.

 Andwhy do you have a code of conduct at all? Are you honorable guys?

 Erin saw Wilovan blink slowly at her. He had that unppable refusal to get angry or riled that Erin had seen in, well, only a few people.

 If theres an [Honorable Thief], it isnt one Ratici and I would bump elbows with, Miss Erin. Say rather we do what we do with the modicum of integrity we havesimply to live with ourselves.

 They were honest about their dishonesty. Erin sat back.

 So why are you here? Someone hired you two to protect me? Who?

 The two exchanged a nce.

 A client.

 Who?

 Im afraid thats confidential, Miss Solstice. You may have noticed us aroundwe epted the contract just a bit ago.

 Erin had noticed them for a while. She scowled.

 But who? Ilvriss? See hereyou cant just sit in my inn and, erguard me.

 The duo sighed even as Erin realized she hadnt phrased that quite right. Wilovan looked at Ratici. The [Thief] red at Erin.

 We wouldnt be having this conversation if you hadnt picked us up, Miss. You must be over Level 40. I could sleep cheek-to-jowl with that Level 30 Drake [Innkeeper] in his bed and hed never notice me.

 Pes? Ew. Why would you want to?

 Wilovans lips quirked. He nodded at the Brothers.

 My friend Ratici is free to entertain himself as he will on his time off, Miss Erin. Not that hes generally so rude. But the fact remainswe wished to be unnoticed guests, but it seems our client was rather perspicacious as it were.

 Erin really wished Pisces were here. Even Raticis lips moved.

 Whats that then, Wilovan? Wait. I think I know. Perspisweaty?

 Not at all, Ratici. Fine word. Read it in a book with a lovely woman just the other month. It means a discerning fellow. One with a lot of insight.

 Ah.

 The two had the same rhythm as Relc and Klbkch. Perhaps that was why Erin smiled despite wanting to be mad. The problem wasshe had met these two and been amused by their colorful intery before. They seemed friendly. And Numbtongue liked them.

 Even so. They were [Thief] and [Thug]. Erin narrowed her eyes as she had a thought.

 Hold on. How long have you two been protecting me? I remember you being here for a while. What else have you two done?

 They eyed each other. Erin folded her arms. Wilovan coughed into a paw.

 Is this necessary, Miss Solstice?

 It sure is if you want to stay here another second! Im not having strange criminals under my roof!

 Ratici gave Erin a long look.

 As opposed to known criminals?

 I know a jerk who sniffs a lot. He tried to rob me once. Thatsthats not the point! Im in charge here! Well?

 The two sighed. Wilovan snapped his fingers.

 Ah. There was that nastiness with that Bearw personality. One of the small-timers from down south. Messed about your friend. Terrible thing, that. Apologies, but we werent able to stop that.

 Relc. Erins stomach tightened up.

 You let it happen?

 He seemed like a good sort to defend himself. Mind youwe were already taking liberties if you dont mind me saying so. Our clients orders dont pertain to anyone but you, Miss Solstice. But we ah, had to adjust our criteria. A few unscrupulous sorts were going to kidnap the little Gnoll child. We persuaded them not to.

 Erin did remember that Bearws gang had been found unconscious. She hadnt delved into it, with Relc being beaten up and his apartment burned by the Golden Triangle mob. She looked at Wilovan.

 You two did that?

 They winked as one.

 The Brothers dont stand for kidnapping or anything thatd hurt a child. Cute little girl. Could use some pants, but then, we were all young once.

 Erin sat back. She had no idea! And she wouldnt have if they hadnt been obvious. She hadnt even sensed Ratici and Wilovan except that the other five Brothers had made them noticeable.

 So you were in my inn to

 Chase off any of the rough fellows who came calling yesterday. Since that fine Named Adventurer isnt here, we thought a bit of emergency help wouldnt be amiss. Mind youwed have let the Antinium take the first swings. No offense, but were not here to risk our lives.

 But they were here to help. And who had hired them? Erin had a list ofwell, she could imagine Ilvriss, maybe Magnolia or

 There were a few others. Erin narrowed her eyes.

 How long are you two going to guard me for? Can you tell me who hired you?

 That would be a secret on both counts, Miss Solstice. Were alreadypromisedwe should remit some of the fee to the client, Ratici.

 Damn. Pardon mynguage, Miss Solstice. Wont happen again.

 The Drake looked embarrassed. Erin sighed.

 Call me Erin.

 The young woman smiled a bit. Then Erin narrowed her eyes again as she had a sudden realization.

 Hold up. Invrisil. The mobyou two were there as well! You protected me!

 And this is why we dont take these sorts of jobs, no matter how good the pay is, Wilovan.

 The Drake leaned over and muttered. Wilovan whispered back.

 Youre being quite rude, Ratici. I hate to remind you in front of Miss Erin like this.

 Terribly sorry, Miss. Its been a fraught day.

 They both tipped their hats again.

 Double damn. She was beginning to like them. Erin folded her arms.

 So you two wont tell me whos hiring you. But you did say youre under orders to protect me?

 The two winced. Erin rubbed her hands together.

 So if I punched a Rock Crab

 Id be amazed anyone would risk that, bodyguards or not. We cant be everywhere and we dont work miracles, Miss Solstice. Quite the opposite. And until now we thought your inn was safe at night.

 Erins face fell.

 So did I.

 Reality was Raskghar and this messy situation. Honestly, the Gentlemen Callers were the bright spot in Erins day. She looked at the Brothers.

 So those guys are like underlings?

 Lower-ranking members. Decent sorts. Inherently trustworthy with anything but money, Miss. Theyd rob you blind if you werent under protection, but make sure you got home in one piece. Cant say thats fair, but its how we work. Wave at the [Innkeeper],ds!

 All five instantly stopped having pizza and gave Erin a tip of the hat instead. She looked at Ratici. Now what was she going to do with them?

 As happenstance would have it, Erin never got to answer that question. Becausethe Gentlemen Callers were not actually applicable to her problems. They could have stopped the Raskghar cold. Would haveif Saliss hadnt been there. Erin sensed that. They were two of the most high-level guests she had, right up there with Grimalkin. Not like Saliss, who was at the top or Grand Mage Eldavin, but

 But the problem was different. Erin heard a howl from the [Garden of Sanctuary]. She was out of her seat in a second.

 Ratici beat her to the door. The fellow smacked into the open doorway and bounced off. Wilovan stepped back and held the door to let Erin through. Hed taken in the scene in a moment.

 The children, of which there were eleven, were in the Garden, all crying. Some louder than others. Erin saw Mrsha standing with Ekirra. Visma was lying on the ground, howling as she held the silver ball. Her dress was muddyMrsha had pushed her along the pond-areas banks.

 Whats going on here?

 Apparently, there had been a squabble. Visma had refused to give the ball back after breakfast when Mrsha wanted to y, and Mrsha, usually caring and generous with her gifts, had demanded it back. Shed pushed Visma, the Drake girl had begun crying, and so had everyone else.

 Erin felt like crying, a bit, as she saw Mrshas tear-stained face and snotty nose. The little Gnoll toddled over to her on two legs and hugged at Erins leg.

 She was shaking. It wasnt the fight that had started the crying. Erin bent down as the adults rushed over.

 Here, here. Its okay, Mrsha. Its going to be okay. Im sure Visma forgives you. See? Shes alright. You just have to say sorry. Youre Mrsha the Big and Brave, arent you? Its alright

 Mrsha sniffed as Lyte halted. She looked at Visma, and then buried her face in Erins shirt. She was still trembling.

 Whats wrong, Mrsha? Everyones okay, see?

 The Gnoll shook her head. She looked up and her trembling paws formed one word. A biting w descending on a heart made out of her paws.

 Raskghar.

 Erin stopped for a second. Of course. They hadnt gone away. They were in Liscor. They had bypassed the walls, invaded the heart of the city. Who cared if a few metal bars stood in their way? They were there.

 No wonder she was terrified. Gently, Erin held Mrsha. Lyte reached out, but Erin held Mrsha for a moment. Hugging her tight.

 Dont worry, Mrsha. Youre safe here. No ones ever going to hurt you, I promise.

 A lie that Erin knew she couldnt keep. But that was how you were supposed to lie to children. Especially your children. And Mrshaif only she could believe that. Erin held her and looked to the open door, around at the frightened faces.

 Its going to be alright. Okay? Its going to be alright. I promise.

 She transferred Mrsha to Lyte after the crying slowed and a few minutes had passed. Then Erin walked slowly towards the door.

 Handkerchief, Miss Erin?

 Wilovan handed it to Erin for her wet front. She blinked at it and shook her head. Then she checked her waist.

 You twoif youre here to protect me, we can talk about itter. I have somewhere to be.

 Slowly, she walked past the Gentlemen Callers. They exchanged a nce as Erin walked into the city. Her knife was at her side. It weighed so little. But it was sharper thanst time. Erin had prepared her inn, herself for this kind of day.

 Never again. She walked into the city as the real troubles began.

 -

 Evil sat in Liscor. Monsters. Things from the dungeon and the ancient past. If those in Erin Solstices inn had little sleepat least they had the [Garden of Sanctuary].

 Those living in the city, let alone close to the prison had even less. To be fairsome hadnt bothered to even try.

 It would be wrong to call the group of mostly-Gnolls and some Drakes demonstrators. Demonstrators implied they had something to demonstrate and were at least vocal about the subject.

 This crowd was quiet. And armed. They said little. But if the line of [Guards] around the prisons entrance were to openWatch Captain Zevara was certain that the prisoners would be dead within five minutes.

 Prisoners.

 She repeated the word so it lodged in her own head. That was how she had to think of them. Inmates, prisonersas thew prescribed them. She could hear what other people were saying just fine, thank you very much.

 Monsters. The Gnolls forsaken ancestors from ages past. Nightmares which deserved neither mercy nor pity.

 But they had surrendered. Sotreat them like prisoners of war? Criminals each with a part in aiding and abetting murder at the very least?

 The Watch Captain wished tea was stronger. Or stamina potionssted longer. She stood in her office.

 We have the cells for them. Barely. We have to fit multiple to a cell, even in cases where the solitary confinement wont do. Alsothe issue is that we cant use some of the older cells. On advice, Ive moved Raskghar only to cells were sure can hold them since none can use Skills.

 On whose advice, Watch Captain?

 The Council was listening. And unlike previous Liscors, this Council seemed prepared to act. UnfortunatelyZevara was at a loss to tell them what she thought should be done.

 Not kill all the Raskghar was a good step. But sentencing? Containment? There was going to be trouble soon with the Gnolls who wanted vengeance and everyone knew it.

 But the Council had two problems today. The guests from Hectval had arrived unannounced. Getting them situated had been easier with the Raskghar situation, but theyd still been all ruffled scales until they were ced at the Tailless Thief. Not her problem, anyways.

 Zevara stood straight and looked past Lisms shoulder as she always did when she had news that she didnt want to actually convey. They were all here, including Jeiss, who was in the position of having to be a superior to his boss. There should probably have been aw against that or something.

 the advicees from prisoner Calruz of Hammerad, Councilmember Lism.

 Watch Captain! That Minotaur is responsible for

 He is the only known expert in the world on their capabilities, sir. It was my decision to stand by his advice, which only goes as far as whether the Raskghar could bend the steel bars of their cells. Which they could on some of the iron ones. Sir. I take full responsibility for the decision.

 Lisms outraged mouth clicked shut.

 Is the Minotaur still under confinement?

 Yessir. In the magical cell.

 But he was not the issue. Or ratherit was a good thing the cell was there. As the old saying went, not to protect Calruz from the Raskghar. Quite the opposite.

 -

 The [Guards] in the jail proper watched as the Minotaur and the Raskghar sat in a staring contest. Neither side moved or blinked. Calruzs eyes were burning.

 Let me out.

 Cant do that, Minotaur.

 Drakes and Humans in the City Watch here only, by the Watch Captains orders. One of the Humans looked warybut he had no bones in the matter, having been hired two months ago. The Drakes eyed the Raskghar with a lot more wariness than Calruz.

 Let me out. And Ill put an end to my dishonor myself. You wont have to guard either of us.

 Two hundred sick Raskghar versus a one-armed Minotaur? But thenif youd seen Calruz fighting, you might wonder

 Even so, none of the [Guards] moved. And it was a strange thing. Beyond strange. But look what time and rtivity did.

 Here was the Minotaur responsible for so much death. And here were the Raskghar who were arguably just as responsible. But one had been prisoner for months. He was repentantthe same Minotaur whod charged into the inn full of Crelers and routinely cleared monster nests with a rusted axe, hauled heavy stones all day

 The [Guards] did not like Calruz. But they werent the Gnolls who hated him and never got assigned to prison duty. He was familiar to them. And whats morean [Honorbound Prisoner]. They had [Appraisal] artifacts and Skills. They could read.

 Compare that to the Raskghar. Morebestial than Gnolls. Larger, more primitive, some called them. Certainly with smaller head rtive to body size, a more

 Earth Humans would havepared it to their version of Neanderthals versus Humans of their era. The Raskghar were coughing, weakened despite treatment

 But they snarled and sniffed the air and snapped at each other in their ownnguage. The Watch was far warier of them than Calruz.

 Minotaur. You sure the bars can hold?

 One of the Drakes broke the silence to eye the Raskghar standing too close to one of the cells fronts. A [Guard] moved them back with a shout and a prod of the spears butt.

 They can bend iron. Not steel. Im sure that one couldnt. Tell that Human to stop that.

 Why?

 Theyre too fast. Theyll grab the spear and yank her through the bars.

 The [Guardswoman] stopped. The others looked at Calruz. One of the Drakes coughed.

 You meaninto the bars?

 No.

 The Watch slowly moved back from the cells. Calruz looked at the overcrowded prison.

 Hypotheticallyif they were able to break the cells

 The Drake nced at Calruz. The Minotaurs eyes flickered.

 Id have explosive and Tripvine type weapons ready to throw. No one walks next to the cells armed with those. They can hear youdont go near for any reason unless you make them manacle themselves. Dont give them anything to throw. Id put [Archers] behind a magical barricade there. If theye outabandon the cells. Throw potions and spells in and cast a cloud spell until were all dead.

 The Drake nced at the silent Raskghar. They had heard that. He looked at the others.

 Oh, how things changed. Slowly, he nodded.

 Move back. One patrol moves across the prison if need be; no more. Get the reinforced manacles; set of eight. Tell the Watch Captain were fortifying the entrance. I want fifteen potions from our armory with a st-factor and

 That was something. The Minotaurs status was changed. But the proof of his failuresy in front of him. The whispering was starting again. He closed his eyes.

 Never again. [Death Before Dishonor]. He clung to it.

 -

 Someones got to entertain them! Despite thisthis crisis.

 We can decide the Raskghar issue now, Lism! Just call for a [Headsman] or let the Gnolls do it ourselves!

 Krshia snarled. Lism nearlynearly snapped back.

 But it was not a time for rage, but quick thinking. And since Krshia was the one beyond reason for oncehe remained calm. Strange, how that worked when Lism was almost always ready to yell first.

 But it was seeing her so furious andworriedthat made Lism hold up his ws catingly.

 Watch Captain Zevara has them under lock and key.

 For how long? There is only one way to deal with Raskghar.

 That came from Elirr. The Gnoll was hunched over in his seat, lookingwell, ragged. Lism and everyone else in the Councils room eyed him with concern. Even Tismel and Ziss.

 Elirr, you really neednt be here. You could rest

 Alonna began, but the [Beast Trainer]s haunted gaze silenced that train of thought. And Lism understood that too, he really did.

 Elirrnearly eaten alive by those damn things, sacrificed and forced to live in a cage? The Drake shifted nervously.

 True. The issue of what to do with the Raskgharwe certainly have few options. However, killing all of them sounds a bit

 Well, rational if you listened to the stories. Lism wasnt in disfavor himself. But the objector in the room also happened to be Watch Captain Zevara. She folded her arms.

 That is an entire people, Councilman.

 They are Raskghar. Not people!

 The Drakes face didnt move. Lism tapped a w on the table.

 Watch Captain, this is not the Minotaur situation all over again. We have no doubt that the Raskghar killed Gnollsthat theirtheir basic nature revolves around the murder of Gnolls.

 Yessir. Howeverthats painting all of them with the same brush. Sir.

 Lisms tail unhappily struck the carpets. He leaned forwards as Krshia made an inarticte sound.

 They fed on our people in the darkness when we were hiding! They are monsters and if they are not in

 What do you propose, then, Watch Captain? Do you suggest that we dont hold the Raskghar ountable for their crimes? Hold them indefinitely in a prison whichyou have intimatedisntrge or sure enough for them?

 The Council fell silent once more. Jeiss was watching Zevara nervously. Her eyes flicked to him.

 Give me time, Councilmembers. I can expand the jail. And I certainly dont intend to hold the Raskghar to anything less than another criminal. But I will not have peopleGnollsmarch in there and execute them before they have a chance to be tried

 Tried

 and duly sentenced under thew. Which is me!

 Zevara mmed a fist down and Krshia blinked. The Council fell silent as Zevara straightened and took a deep breath.

 My first duty is to the security of Liscor, Councilmembers. And as Watch Captain, I need to make sure no other Raskghar areing from the dungeon! If this Nokha livesI want to find her. With respect, the issue of the Raskghar can wait until the threat of the Raskghar is dealt with.

 Lism looked around. No one was happy with that, but Zevara had reminded them that she was Watch Captain. Unless they wanted to remove her, she didnt have to be here, especially in a crisis.

 See to the security of the prison, Watch Captain. Well discuss the matter.

 The female Drake saluted and marched out of the room. An unpleasant silence fell afterwards.

 They have to die.

 Lism heard one of the Gnolls mutter that, but when he turned his head he couldnt tell which one. Krshia was practically shaking in her chairher paws gripped the table so hard he feared shed crack the wood.

 Elirr was just sitting. Alonna and Jeiss were whispering about securityand that was half of their problems.

 Councilmembers? The delegation from Hectval is breakfasting. Theyre wondering if

 Liscors Council looked at the nervous [Clerk] whode to deliver the message. The Drake froze on the spot. Lism rose and ced his ws on the table.

 Thank you, Miss. Well attend to it.

 Why now? First they dy arriving, then they dont send word

 Alonna muttered. Krshia snarled.

 This is not the time for it!

 No, it was not. Howeverthis was the first Drake city besides Pass to make contact with Liscor and Lism knew that Hectval was part of arger alliance. More importantly, all the Drake cities would be watching this meeting.

 We have to deal with them. I dont know why theyre here. But I suggest

 Lism. This Raskghar issue isrger than them!

 Krshia looked infuriated, as if Lism was cing the Hectval group over the rest. That was a Silverfang thing that had always annoyed Lism. She had priorities. If there was arge issue, you dropped everything and dealt with that. Lism on the other hand had projects. He was working on the [Carers] situation, expanding Liscor

 On the other hand, that single-mindedness had lost him several trade deals when she capitalized on things he didnt. And it was a useful asset in the Council. If you worked with her right.

 The Councils heads moved to Lism as he raised a w.

 Im not suggesting we table the Raskghar issue, SilverfKrshia. As I understand it, we have two pressing dilemmas. The delegation from Hectval cannot wait. But the Raskghar have to be monitored, the city calmed. I propose we split the Council. Councilmembers who wish to deal with the RaskgharJeiss, I think youre one, Elirr

 The Gnoll nodded shortly. Lism sighed.

 Ill head the Hectval issue. Alonna? Tismel and Ziss too, I suppose. Councilmembers Krshia and Raekea, your preference. But we need to move quick! Were supposed to have a reception. Entertainment!

 Krshias fur, which had been standing on end, began to lower. That was an interesting Gnoll-trait. She looked at Lism as the Council rose to their feet. Jeiss gave him a quick nod.

 Good thinking. Im no good at diplomacy anyways. One thought: we could use our [Negotiators]

 All three are with the delegation right now.

 They should have had a lot more. And a staffan entire group dedicated to events like this, not the Council! But how long had it been since formal diplomacy had been conducted? Not with the Human cities, with other Drakes!

 The Blood Fields had cut off trade for a long timethe winter andte fall allowed it of course, but it was only [Merchants], seldom other people in anyrge numbers.

 Ill go on-duty then, talk to people, make sure the cells are holding and see what the Watch Captains n is. Anyone with me?

 Raekea and Elirr followed Jeiss. Krshia was about to, but then strode over to Lism, Alonna, Tismel, and Ziss as they conferred.

 need to stall them. Tell Pes to feast them and when theyre done, do a walking tour of the city? Yes, just a basic around-the-walls. Let them stare at the Floodins for a bit. Find someone who knows Liscors history and give them a talk about the founding! And, Ancestors, keep them away from that Human and her inn! Ill try and see whatKrshia? What is it?

 The Gnoll saw Tismel and Ziss head off with Alonna to buy Lism time. She stopped, breathing heavily. And they were alone for a second.

 You can handle the Raskghar. Ill deal with the delegation.

 If I trusted you to do it yourself

 But her heart wasnt in the insult. Lism patted Krshia on the shoulder. They both stared at Lisms patting arm until he dropped it.

 Ahem. Well, I wouldnt mind some help.

 To get you started? You have no idea what to do about the delegation, no?

 Lism opened his mouthand closed it.

 Erentertain them? I was going to have Tismel rustle up some of his old [Councilmembers] for a get-togethersomething convivial.

 But he was a [Shopkeeper]. His idea of entertainment wasnt some fancy party. Krshias face told Lism he was making a mistake.

 We need to consult someone who knows Hectvalor at least, other cities. Their arrival was very strange, yes?

 Remarkably. Who doesnt send ahead theyreing? But whod know about Hectval? One of the [Merchants]? I could go ask, but I dont want to waste time.

 The Gnoll nodded. Her eyes flicked to the window.

 I know who to ask. Follow me.

 She led him at a quick trot out of City Hall. Lism followed. Krshia was fast when she wanted to be. Damn Gnolls who were used to running about.

 Krshia. Krshia Silverfang. It was still odd to not have that as an epithet on his tongue. But thenthere were good qualities to the Gnoll. Lism had always known that. He just hadnt ever felt like giving her credit for them. Until recently. But he could make a list if he had to.

 Quality #4 on the list Lism did not have in his head was that Krshia Silverfangknew people. Lism knew people, but there was a definite disconnect in how they operated. Krshia had clients who let her be their middlewoman, shop for them. She made friends. Lism? He had business associates.

 Whore we going to meet?

 Wing Commander Embria.

 Why her? Thest thing we need is the army mucking about and

 Love the army, support them and all that. But they werent exactly the first people you went to for diplomacy. 4th Company had a record of shing with the Watch and assuming their authority trumped a Senior Guardsmans. Krshia rolled her eyes as she looked back at him.

 Lism, you fool, you. The army has worked for Drake cities more than anyone else in Liscor! Wing Commander Embria, she and the other officers negotiate with the leaders of Drake cities! I heard as much over tea!

 Oh. Then Lism frowned.

 Youve had tea with Wing Commander Embria?

 Mm. Only four times, but I made a point to do so, especially when I became Councilwoman. Good to know the armys representative, yes?

 Yesbut who has time for four tea sessions?

 Who doesnt?

 -

 Wing Commander Embria had herpany sweeping around Liscor and inside of it. The [Soldiers] were on high-alert; they were also monitoring for [Invisibility] spells, Skillseven though the Raskghar didnt have them. For once, Lism was d to have experienced warriors to supplement the Watch.

 Mind youeven if the Raskghar were five timesrger than the ones in the cells, you couldnt walk down a street without seeing a group of armed Gnoll civilians, most carrying bows, a patrol of the Watch, an Antinium squad, or one of 4th Companys groups. It made Lism feel a bit better.

 However, this was not what he wanted Hectvals delegation to see. Wing Commander Embria blinked as the two found her.

 The Hectval delegation? Me?

 Thats right, Wing Commander. Wed value your input. In private? We wont detract you from your duties long. But this is an important moment diplomatically for Liscor.

 Lism and Krshia expected Embria to object, but after a moments thoughtful silence, she nodded.

 Of course, Councilmembers.

 They headed to City Hall at a fast march. Lism was panting when he arrived and he was the only one. Embria turned once they had closed the door.

 I forget that Liscor isntin touch with a lot of Drake cities, Councilmembers. But you deal with Pass.

 No, they talk down to us and we argue until they try to force whatever they want down our throats.

 But Lism didnt say that. He cleared his throat.

 The Hectval situation isnew to us. Our [Negotiators] and some of the Council are hard at work, but wed appreciate some rity here, Wing Commander. They epted our invitation and were due to show up nearly a week agothen they appear without warning?

 Also, the delegates had been very standoffish. Not shaking handsof course, Lism had hurried them to the Tailless Thief in all the chaos, but hed definitely gotten an odd vibe from them. Almostchallenging.

 Embria hesitated. Her eyes flicked from Krshia to Lism in a way that said she had thoughtsbut she was reluctant to say them. Like a customer asking themselves if they really needed an embellishing ornament on their scabbard.

 Councilmembers. As Wing Commander, of course I would be delighted to assist Liscor in any way I can. Naturallyas Wing Commanderbut as advice goes, or input, I, uh, might rify my remarks differently as Embria.

 Lism and Krshia frowned. Embria scratched at her chin awkwardly.

 Of course, I can give my best input. As Wing Commander

 We would eptments ah, unofficially, Embria.

 Krshia grinned, catching on. Embria sighed and rxed. She took off her helmet, as if doing that and losing her militarily-straight posture made her not Wing Commander all of a sudden.

 Okay. Look. Its not something I can say er, as Wing Commander. Badmouthing another city couldnd me in hot water in the army.

 But were just asking you for advice, Wing Commander.

 Embria looked ufortable and Krshia nudged Lism. Not the point right now. The me-scaled Drake scratched at her neck-spines.

 Politics, sir. More than one Wing Commanders lost their jobs because they make the wrongment while were working for a client. This is off-the-record. But what Hectvals doing is sort of a ssic among Drake cities. They show up unannounced, dont respond to your invitations on timeand thenin youre the ones responsible for poor hospitality. And if you rise to the bait, theyll shout about it to every Drake city in range. I dont know why, but theyve decided they want to make Liscor look bad. You need to win them over or turn the tables on them.

 Lism and Krshia looked at each other. Lism dug at one earhole with a w.

 Say what now?

 -

 Intercity politics in Drakends was another world. Feuds, alliancesthe Drake city-states were each aw unto their own, with different customs, rules, and so on. Each one was like a little nation and you made friends and enemies to stay afloat.

 Of course, Lism had known this. That was like any city, really. But Drakes took it to another extreme, ording to Embria.

 Hectval is part of the Three Cities Alliance. Hectval-Drisshia-Luldem.

 She actually remembered the names? Embria shrugged.

 We have to. Its our neighbors and they can cause troublemind you, theyd never be as rude if the army was in two hundred miles of their city. Theyre known forcrossbows, strong bows and arrow fletching. Hilly terrainmakes fighting their [Archer] battalions a right pain in the

 She broke off tactfully. Lism stared at her.

 Fight them? Dead gods, were entertaining them, Wing Commander!

 Sorry, sir. Liscors army has fought almost every city in Izril at one point or another. We take notes. Im not the best for diplomacy, but Liscors army has to negotiate with clients and keep abreast of the weather.

 So Hectvals holding a grudge?

 Or they think youve slighted them somehow. It could be anything. Maybe they want to pressure Liscor into helping them. You have to askand mend bridges if its a slight. But er, tactfully.

 A word as foreign to Embria as it was to Lism. Krshia was already eying him with great concern. He could be tactful! Lism bridled a bit.

 Its just such an odd way of going about it.

 Its politics, sir. Liscors been isted for a long time from Izril proper due to the Bloodfields. Personally, it might just be that they dont like the idea of Liscor.

 Dont like thethats it?

 The Wing Commander looked more astonished than Lism. She eyed him right back.

 Were Drakes, Councilmember. Thest time I was with the army before heading to Liscorwe were around Oteslia, taking work in a Walled Cities conflict because the Serpentine Matriarch of Zeres insulted the First Gardener for refusing to attend her birthday.

 Krshia stared at Lism. He wanted to protest that he hadnt been responsible for that. It sounded crazy to him as well. Mind youhow hard was it to attend a birthday if that was the result?

 He pulled himself together.

 We are Drakes, Wing Commander. If they want hospitality, we wont give them an inch toin about. Some good, Liscorian traditions to strengthen long-lost ties between cities and we can sort things out.

 Embria had a dubious look in her eye. She bit her lip.

 Might be harder than that, sir. As I said, thats the Scalespeakerthe one with the golden belt you need to impress and hes a staunch traditionalist. Id have to ask Wikir or someone whos up-to-date with records.

 They had records on individuals personalities? Dead gods, they needed to hire more [Negotiators]. Lism tried to recall that Drake.

 Ah, their leader?

 NoI think they have a Council. Scalespeaker is likethe diplomatic version of a Watch Captain. We dont have one, but theyd be the top [Diplomat]. Again, off-the-record, but Id keep Antinium out of sight. Er, Erin Solstice too.

 You dont have to tell us twice, Wing Commander. Well make it good, old-fashioned

 Try really old-fashioned, sir? The Scalespeakers a traditionalist and a liberalist city like Liscor is already

 Liberal?

 Lisms jaw dropped. Now he was convinced Embria was lying to his face. Liscor? She saw his genuine confusion and coughed into a w. Was shewas she covering a smile?

 You have Antinium in the city and trade with Humans, Councilmembers. Most Drakes dont see Humans unless they visit a big city. Or enlist. Youre as bad as Zeres to Hectval. Maybe even Oteslia or Pass.

 The Drake [Shopkeeper] had to sit down for a moment. Liscor? Liberal? His entire life, hed fought to keep Liscors traditions and they were

 Krshia was fighting not tough her stupid tail off. Too quick tough, that was Krshia Silverfang. It was not at all endearing.

 Wellsee what we can do. Any general tips, Wing Commander? Putting on a parade or anything grand is difficult with the Raskghar situationah, and Ill let Councilwoman Krshia go with you to oversee that.

 Embria saluted, and chewed at her lip.

 Im not an expert on Hectval, but a show of generosity in the face of their attitude is probably the best bet. Gifts of Liscors trade goods, something impressiveif you do it well enough, theyll have to reciprocate even if they hate your guts. Its another power-move, but it has to be done well.

 Great. And how was he supposed to do that? Lism sighed. He straightened and nodded at Krshia.

 Thank you, Wing Commander. Krshia, go deal with the Raskghar.

 Are you certain, Lism?

 Of course I am. Youyoull be fretting over them and getting in my way. Ill handle this.

 He looked as confident as possible. Krshia rxed. She smiled at him as Embria turned to go. Lism waved surreptitiously

 And then sagged when the two were gone. Uh oh. But hed volunteered for this and it was time to impress Hectval. Impress them. Impress

 What would Silverfang do? Shedwhy, shed do something Gnollish. Put out some silkap and tea, and charm them. But that wasnt the move here. Lism would offer around a snack tter over some of the decent wine if they were his friends. No, nohe didnt have the right mindset. He needed

 Lism looked around. And then he hurried off, as one did, to consult with the person he went to for advice. Krshia had awork.

 The proud uncle had his nephew.

 -

 Olesm Swifttail was interrogating one of the Raskghar. Safely. The Raskghar was in one of the individual, temporary cells in the Watch Houses barracks. And everyone was keeping their distance.

 Magical gue. The Raskghar had been hit with it and it had killed them. Typhenous had probably in more Raskghar than any other adventurer with a few spells. Olesm had studied gue spells and they were nasty.

 Howeveralso easy to deal with in some situations if you had the right spells. [Dispel Magic] erased a magical gue spell in most cases. The trick was having enough spells and mana for an entire infected regiment and catching it before it got that far.

 Normally, the ailments caused by magicsted as long as the magic did. It was worse on [Mages] of course, unless their natural skills let them fight magical effects. Half-Elf armies were bad targets for gue spells

 What else had his course in Manus taught him? Ahthat the real danger was that a magical gue effectivelypromised your health so that youd get sick with regr diseases.

 As was the case here. The Raskghar hadnt known what the magical gue was. And it had infected them multiple times over. Even with the magical cure nowthe Raskghar was coughing, ill.

 Good magic. Make better. Surrender.

 She kept saying that. As if someone had been teaching her the words. Olesm folded his arms.

 Who told you to surrender? You are under truth spell. Answeror we will know.

 And do what, torture you? Kill you? Zevara wouldnt stand for it. But Olesm still felt as though someone was creeping up with a dagger.

 The Raskghar needed no threats, anyways. She looked at him with dim wariness in her eyes. The effects of the moons were fading. She was the most intelligent of the un-Awakened lot; half had already lost the ability to speak in coherent words.

 Nokha.

 Everyone in the room shivered. A dozen [Guards] were ready to attack this single Raskghar if she tried anything. But there she sat.

 Where. Is. Nokha?

 The female Raskghar shook her head.

 Nokha leave. Many moons ago. Takestrong. Withher.

 She growled something unintelligible. But the truth stone Olesm was consultingall three of themglowed. Even the most advanced one just said that the Raskghar was uncertain, but truthful.

 Damn. The [Strategist] consulted his notes.

 Lets see. Nokha was sick with the others. You were attacked byundead. Adventurers. Antinium. And more and more Raskghar were dying. Then she decided to leave, and told you toe up when both moons were full to surrender. She told you to surrender and that wed make you better.

 Yes.

 Olesm threw his clipboard down. The Raskghar watched.

 Good ves. Mercy.

 Mercy? We should execute them now, along with the Minotaur, [Strategist]!

 One of the Drakes hissed. Olesm itched to say yes, but he held up one w.

 Thats not your decision, Guardsman. Watch Captain Zevara is handling the situation. We want to know more. Where did Nokha go? Did she say anything?

 The Raskghar growled.

 Hungry.

 You can eat if you tell us what we want to know. What did Nokha take?

 Sword. Magic. Food?

 The Drakes fist clenched.

 What made him so angry was how confident this Raskghar was. How they all were. They didnt fight, they just answered questions and expected to be cured. To be fed and protected from the angry Gnolls. Because that was thew and Nokha had figured out how to take advantage of it.

 He wanted to toss them all in a pit with Shield Spiders until they told him

 Youre losing control. Calm.

 Something cool touched Olesms head. A handand a gentle, blue me.

 Olesm blinked.

 Mavi El held the me out and the room grew calmer. Angry [Guards] stopped fingering their weapons. Her me was blue, like the open sea, tinted a bit with green.

 Calm fire. Not like Erins. But Mavi wasnt Erin and her fire was different. She stood there, regarding the Raskghar.

 The creature was more nervous of her than Olesm. Mavi walked forwards until she was at the bars.

 Mavi

 She ignored Olesms warning. Mavi squatted down.

 Good ves. Mercy. Nokha told you that youd be safe here. Wed turn you into ves, but youd be saved and cured, didnt she?

 The Raskghar didnt respond. She was staring at the calm me in Mavis palm. It winked out. Mavi snapped her fingers and a second me danced across her fingers. It was red.

 But you dont want to be ves, do you? You just want to be cured. And Nokha was wrong. Were not going to feed you. We just want to know where she is. If you dont tell usyoull die. We dont care if you live or not.

 Olesm felt a surge of annoyance at Mavi. This was his interrogation! He opened his mouthand caught himself.

 The red me was fury. The Raskghar growled.

 Wont kill us.

 We wont kill you? You stupid thing. You dont matter. Youre not going to be a good ve, are you? You want to eat Gnolls. But that wont happen. Well pluck your teeth out.

 Wont.

 The Raskghar bared her teeth; some had fallen out from her disease. She drew herself up. Mavi perched on her heels.

 Oh, really? Someone get me some pliers and rope. You made a mistake, you stupid Raskghar. Did you think wed make you ves without

 The Raskghar leapt, but Mavi was already jumping back. The huge female Raskghar mmed into the cells bars. The gate shook, but the room was full of shouting [Guards] and the Raskghar froze as arrows were aimed at her head.

 The magical fire winked out. Mavi stood up, dusting her hands.

 There you have it, Olesm. You were right. They are preying on your morality. If they think theyre in danger, I have no doubt theyll try something.

 The Raskghar realized shed been tricked, manipted, and shrank back.

 Mercy?

 Someone spat at her. The Raskghar growled, but didnt do anything. She feared Mavi more than Olesm. The blue-scaled Drake nodded at Mavi, thest vestiges of the emotions the me had created in him going out.

 Thank you. But you shouldnt have gotten so close.

 She winked and whispered.

 I had to give her an opening. Anyways, someones got to give you a hand. Just showing you a few tricks.

 She was so much different than she had been a week ago. Moreactive. Mavi wouldnt have done that before. This Mavi was more willing to take risks.

 And Olesm now had proof to give to Zevara that keeping the Raskghar around was not a safe move. As soon as they recovered he was sure theyd try to escape.

 Take her back to prison but put her in a separate cell. Lets bring another Raskghar in and confirm the information. Then Ill talk to Zevara

 The Drake heard a familiar voice and sighed.

 Nephew! Nephewa moment!

 Uncle

 Lism hurried into the Watch House looking for Olesm. Mavi trailed after the [Strategist] as the Watch ordered the Raskghar to put on the manacles and sheplied, sullenly asking for food.

 UncleCouncilmember Lismthis really isnt a good time. Im interrogating the Raskghar

 And Ill leave you to it, Nephew. But I have a situation. The delegation from Hectval is here and we need to blow them away with a Tier 4 spell. A celebration! Something to really establish our diplomacy. At least something to break the ice!

 The Drake stared at his uncle.

 Delegation? Uncle, this is not the time for

 A finger flicked one of his neck-spines and he winced. Maviughed, eyes dancing, and bowed as Lism and Olesm turned to her.

 Hello, venerable uncle Lism! Im keeping your nephewpany.

 Ah. Miss Mavi.

 Lism eyed her. He didnt like Maviwell, he had a thing about Humans. And some Gnollsalthough Olesm hadnt heard him grousing about Krshia ofte. And this wasnt the time for that!

 Uncle, Im sure the delegation is important, but thisow, Mavi!

 Shed flicked his neck-spines again. The [Lady] shook her head yfully.

 Olesm, youre a good [Tactician], and I love you for it, but you have yet to be a [Strategist]. Diplomacy matters! Whats this about the delegation?

 Lism hesitated, but then exined in brief the problem. Olesm rubbed at his forehead.

 Oh dead gods, inter-city politics. I know all about that. Just dont offend them, Uncle. It might be a small setback, but we can have a substandard get-together and patch it upter. Just dont let Erin get near them. Or the Antinium! OrAncestors. Maybe just lock them in the Tailless Thief until they get mad and leave?

 But Lism was wringing his ws.

 Nephew, this is the first Drake city to make contact with Liscor in ages!

 Pass was first, Uncle. And weve been in contact with Esthelm, Celum, Invrisil

 Thats not the same! This is a city like us. Come now, I know you can think of something!

 Olesm tried, he really did. But the Raskghar was too big.

 Erhave the yers of Liscor put on a show and turn the entire City Hall into arge festive area? We haverge enough rooms. Make the entrance lobby upgive them some gifts like trophies from the dungeon, get some of Erins food

 No, no, no! You want to impress them, dont you? Make them feel indebted?

 Mavi interrupted Olesm. She pped her hands together, looking excited.

 Leave it to me.

 The two Drakes looked at her.

 Mavi, youre not even a Drake.

 The [Lady Firestarter] winked at Olesms dubious expression.

 But I am a [Lady] and I know how to impress fellow nobles. I can help! Just give me the authority to use some gold, and one hour. Olesms rightwell turn City Hall into a grand reception.

 Really? ErOlesm, your Human friend

 Lism tried to draw Olesm away, but Mavi just leaned into both of them and put her hands on their shoulders. The Drakes looked at her and she smiled impishly.

 I think she knows more than us, Uncle.

 Very well. What do I do, then?

 Get as many of the old Council and important Drakes as you can. No one under Guildmaster status. Tekshia Shivertail, definitely. Dress upin whatever traditional Drake clothing you can. You get the gifts, too. And some good wine! Olesm, Ill handle this! Keep dealing with the Raskghar!

 Then Mavi was gone. She wasughing as she ran from the Watch House. Having the time of her life. Lism eyed Olesm.

 Not that I mind your, er, choices, Nephew. And its not my decision, its yours

 Uncle, I like her. And its

 Olesm bit off the word he was going to say. Temporary. Oh, Ancestors. But Lism just patted Olesm solemnly on the shoulder.

 She seemsnice. Quite spirited. Good to have someone like that in your life. Ill er, get ready for the delegation. You continue keeping us safe.

 He hurried off. Olesm opened and closed his mouth. Who had reced his uncle? He shook his head.

 -

 The trust Lism put in Mavi El was surprising. And not. She wasnot Erin Solstice. But sometimes you looked at her, especially if you knew who she was.

 Erin Solstice would not have been the right choice for delegates from a touchy Drake city. But Mavi El? She understood diplomacy, politics.

 And it was easy. Drakes, Humansshe had a simple three-step n to throwing a proper reception.

 Mavi raced into The Wandering Inn. She could have cartwheeled, despite the Raskghar, despite the mood of the city.

 She was alive! She had felt young before, of course, rejoiced in regaining her body, her mobility and energy. But this? This felt like the moments after she had first taken the Potion of Youth, spurning Bvierr and riding off. She felt like she was bursting with energy. This was true youth that Saliss had given her. Blessed, beautiful.

 She wanted to live forever like this.

 Lyte! Octavia! I need you, quick, quick! And you, Palt, and Imani! Theres money to be made and people to impress! And I need one of the yers! And

 And the inn was empty! Almost deserted. The Antinium stared at Mavi as she whirled.

 Where is everyone?

 In the Garden, of course. Lyte stared at Mavi as she cuddled a still red-eyed Mrsha.

 Mavi? Whats wrong? Is it the

 Mrsha looked up fearfully with the others. Mavi saw the anxious faces and smiled.

 Nothings wrong. Have heart! And help me out. I need to entertain some fussy Drakes from Hectval. Cheer up, little Mrsha. No one will harm you. See? Hey, Goblin! Catch!

 Her eyes zed. And so did the fire she conjured. Mavi raised her hand and threw a ball of burning yellow-white. Itnded in Numbtongues hands and he nearly dropped it.

 But the fire was yellow, a pure thing like a dandelion, or the sun on a bright day. And it burned him not at all, but the fuel was him. He grinnedand the fire of happiness, a tiny thing but born of Mavis soul, burned a bitrger.

 It warmed the Garden. Magic, a Skill. Those within it looked upand the fire reflected itself in them. It gave to them and then took their energy.

 No one will harm you. Not in this garden! Not in this inn! Havent you seen worse? Havent you defeated worse?

 Mavi challenged them all. The people raised their heads. And they remembered.

 Face-Eater Moths. Skinner! The siege of Liscor. Take heart. If the enemy camps outside your gates, be wary. But dont despair. Not after all youve been through.

 Lyte blinked at the yellow fire. It waslike Erins mes, but Mavi conjured them more rapidly. Because it was her Skill. And she had experience and time, so much time to master her Skillpared to Erin.

 Mrsha smiled and rxed. And the [Princess] hugged her.

 Oh, so you believe a bit of fire more than me? How dare you, you silly little bean!

 The Gnoll giggled. Bean? She squirmed out of Lytes grip to go apologize to Visma.

 The [Lady] exhaled as Lyte walked over.

 If you say Im like Erin, Ill have to p you. Olesm says it all the time. I was here first. Erin copies me.

 Erins not like you.

 The [Princess] remarked, her eyes on Mavi. She couldnt have missed how Mavi had changed. But both Mavi, young and old were unlike Erin. Erin was concerned and had gone into the city.

 Mavi ignored the shadows. She looked around and saw a Stitchgirl waking up atst after having been passed out well into the morning.

 Wuzzat? Did someone want me?

 Octavia yawned, and then was seized by Mavi. The [Lady] looked at her.

 I need some of your ingredients. Can you unlock your alchemy shop for me? Ill pay you back. 12% over the market value!

 The [Alchemist] blinked. She had no idea what was going on, but the first words out of her mouth were

 18%. And I want a receipt.

 16.

 17?

 16, and hurry up!

 Octavia got up and looked around. Mavi was striding about.

 Imani! Palt! I need food! Liscor will pay for it all! Were catering to a fancy party and you two have what I need! Can someone get a bag of holding and deliver it to City Hall?

 Whats going on, Mavi? A party?

 The [Lady] winked at Lyte.

 Just one of those Drake city things. Im helping. Lyte, can you get me in touch with the yers of Celum? And then I need to work on Pass. ActuallyIll do Pass as soon as I deal with the food.

 The three keys to a good party were as followed for Mavi: fame, fortune, and exoticism. Shed never quite figured out how to get thatst word to start with an f.

 You want us to cater for this reception, Mavi? I can cookbut Im only familiar with Balerosian dishes.

 Is itsafe, Palt? To go into the kitchen?

 Perfectly, Imani. And Im here.

 The Centaur reassured the young woman. Montressa snorted as she and Beza inspected Mavis fire.

 And that means? Watch out for broken ribs, Imani.

 Palt red as he ushered Imani out into the inn. Mavi was busy exining.

 Your inn is one of the few ces that has food ready to go, fresh. I need you to make some of the more elegant dishesbut they might not even touch them.

 What?

 The Centaur was confused. Mavi rolled her eyes.

 Prissy Drakes, apparently. Its there to be seen. The real menu isErins food.

 But its from Earth! And its about as gourmet as my hoof in a pie!

 Ah, but its now Liscorian food. It works! Trust me. Well get some of the traditional foods from Pes inn. I just need to make it fitting for the reception.

 Both Palt and Imani tried to stop Mavi as she yanked open cupboards, taking out asagna, pizzastheir natures as [Cooks] objected to this!

 Mavi, this is not great food. Its enjoyable, but even the Drakes can probably tell that its not fancy!

 Herugher was infectious. Mavi tossed them into the bag of holding and then investigated Imanistest creations.

 Dont worry, you two. I need Imanis fufu and her other dishes. Theyremmclose to Chandrarian? Well call them that. Exoticism. And for fortuneOctavia?

 What do you need, Mavi?

 The [Lady] rushed into the [Alchemist]s shop. Octavia was all set with a notepad to take down the market-price of the goods she was selling to Mavi and Liscor at a very reasonable17% markup. She saw Mavi hunt around, and then grab a single tube of

 Octavia smiled. Mavi walked back into the kitchen.

 This is how we make the pizzas and such top-ss and fit for a gathering.

 She held out a tube and Palt groaned. Mavi opened the tube and began to sprinkle kes of gold onto the top of one of the pizzas. Imani looked like she was about to vomit.

 Stop that! It doesnt taste good! What are you doing?

 Its gold leaf. Its digestible. And believe me, this is what some of the nobility think makes food rich. Well, certainly expensive.

 Mavi knew all the tricks. She had a few rhinestones, which she decorated one of the cakes with. Souvenirs. She pped down Octavias hand as the [Alchemist] began writing eagerly.

 I know thosee from Numbtongue. Dont mark it as Szsar-quality! Now, all we need is to throw something glittering into the blue fruit and we have ourselves a nobles treat.

 Lasica is going to murder you.

 Imani whispered as she stared at the opulent decadence. Mavi pped her hands together briskly.

 She can line up with all the hundreds of other enemies I have. Whats she got, adle? Thest enemy I had came at me with a spear and chariot. Nowstart porting that to City Hall. Palt, Imani, some actual Balerosian elegance, please. Make a list and Liscor will pay you for it. Lyte?

 She was putting together this moment on a budget and a time limit of one hour. Good thing it was Mavi El, who had once entertained an entire group of nobles on eleven gold coins worth of delicacies. The El family had little money at times. But a whole lot of style and experience.

 What do you want with the yers of Celum?

 The [Princess] followed the [Lady] as Mavi marched straight into Invrisil after flipping some silver coins into the bowl. Mavi looked at her.

 We need thest part of a party. You should take notes, young woman! This is how you entertain.

 The yers of Celum were having breakfastwell, a breakfast meeting that had runte as they discussed a third branch of their organization or just a joint group under Temile.

 Well see what Pass says, but I think Temile needs to front the Passian group either way. No objections! Theres no one I trust except for maybe Pralcem and Jexam and since neither one wants to be a [Manager], the Drakes can take him or leave him. Itll be a mostly non-Human cast anyways

 Emme looked up as Mavi walked up to them.

 Can we help you? Lyte, umMavi? Is something wrong with Liscor? We heard about the Raskghar.

 Jasi stood up at once, a worried look on her face. Temile twisted in his seat and Wesle and the others rose as well. Mavi shook her head.

 The Raskghar are dealt with. For now. But I am inviting all of youespecially you, Emme, you, Jexam, and Jasiand Wesle too, I supposeto Liscors City Hall inforty six minutes! We are having an event.

 The others hesitated. Mavi had that way of speaking that said this is how it is. Emme though, had heard that voice many times. Usuallying from her mouth instead of anyone elses. She raised an eyebrow.

 And why would we do that?

 Because not only will Liscors Council be there, but a number of Passian [Senators], as well as a delegation from Hectval. Other Drake cities. Dress up!

 Mavi pped her hands cheerfully. Emme began to ask questions, but Mavi was through the door and adjusting it to Pass before anyone could leave the table.

 You dont have Passian [Senators]!

 Lyte hissed at Mavi as the door opened and they stepped into the checkpoint. But her look was admiring. She saw where Mavi was going. The [Lady] turned to the [Princess].

 Its a self-fulfilling promise. Like a riddle. Follow my lead, please? We might both level! Wellyou might. Anyways, heres a tip, Lyte du Marquin. Once you have one

 The other fell into ce. Mavi began to clear her throat as the Drakes inspected them.

 Youre not on the list. Reason to enter Pass?

 Kel the [Sergeant] looked suspiciously at Mavi and Lyte. The [Lady] responded in a breathy rush.

 I am so sorry, but were trying to deliver an urgent message to thethe Wings of Pass? And the mewardens. Its from Erin

 There was a groan from the [Guards] at the checkpoint. Mavi held up her hands.

 I know! I am so sorry. But alsoto Miss Drassi? And whoevers on duty at the Wistram News Network. Im sure theyd want to know. I think theres even a bounty on news?

 That was actually true. The [Guards] hesitated. Some of the napping ones sat up in their chairs.

 What news?

 Wend if any of you want to tell Drassi, since were so busycan you raise that gate? Its this huge event in Liscor. A delegation from Hectvnd the yers of Celum are attendingI cant talk about it. Wed like to go, please?

 Adventurer Bevussas team is attending a gathering in Pass.

 Kel remarked suspiciouslybut two [Guards] were already buying favors to go run out of the checkpoint real quick. Mavis eyes glittered as Lyte decided that she had a new mentor.

 I know. But Erin was sure theyd want to skip that one to attend this one. Pleasewere in a huge hurry. It would be terrible if the Gold-rank teams were to miss it!

 All true, except for the Erin-bit. But since Mavi had been telling truths, she risked one unconfirmed lie if they were watching their truth spells. After a few seconds of whispering, the [Sergeant] grudgingly raised the gates. Mavi and Lyte swanned through, already talking.

 It was so much gold leaf on those dishes, Mavi. Really high-ss food you said?

 I cant believe anyone would miss it, Lyte. Honestlyhow many [Senators] do you think are attending? I didnt get the number.

 Just the important ones.

 That was a bit of good dialogue. Theyd have to repeat that once they burst into whatever party Bevussa was at and pulled her away. Probably with a lot of [Senators] who wanted to be the ones who were invited.

 Mavi El smiled. She loved games like this. By the time she hurried Bevussas team to the very important event in Liscor, there was a queue outside the door to Liscor. Gossip moved faster than Mavi could jogpeople had been whispering about it at the social event by the time shed told Bevussa about it.

 The [Lady] returned to City Hall with food, guests, and thus, entertainment as well in tow. A fancy event in less than an hour, with prestigious guests from two major cities, and less than a hundred gold coins budget. Far less if she could kick Octavias inted prices off.

 Lets see Erin Solstice do that.

 -

 Erin Solstice walked through Liscor, towards the prison.

 She got lost twice. She wasnt actually that familiar with the jail, despite having once spent a night there. But all she had to do was follow the angry people.

 Many were armed. In this world, everyone had a belt dagger. And many Gnolls owned bows.

 They were afraid. Erin sensed it in the air, even without her lessons from Mavi. But more than thatthere was anger there.

 Far worse than Calruz, even. The crowd in front of the jail wanted vengeance. And Erin couldnt me them. She had seen what the Raskghar would do.

 Mrsha. Erin suppressed the feeling rising in her chest. It felt like

 Invisible me. Hatred. Ready to burn out of her. But the Raskghar were contained. She just wanted to make sure her friends were safe.

 The Gentlemen Callers were probably following her. Erin wasnt sure if anyone else was. It didnt matter right now. She saw a huge crowd in front of the prison.

 Let us in. Let us in.

 They were chanting. The line of [Guards] had been reinforced andErin sawthey were armed with nonlethal weapons. Well, not immediately lethal weapons. Wellif you swung them lightly

 Shields, clubs, and so on. They clearly didnt want to fight. Or be here. Erin stood on her tiptoes at the back of the crowd. She tapped the nearest Gnoll on the shoulder.

 Excuse me. Is there any news about the Raskghar?

 No sign of em. They took one out and put one back, but the bastards are in there, being fed and treated while

 The Gnoll growled as he stared ahead and then realized who he was talking to. He stared at Erin.

 Its you!

 Me? Hi. Have we met?

 The Gnoll pointed at her.

 Were not letting you save this lot! Its not like the Goblins!

 He raised his voice. Erin blinked.

 No, I wasnt

 More people were turning. The Gnolls shout attracted them and they looked around.

 Its her.

 The Human! The [Innkeeper]!

 Erin Solstice! I knew shed be here sooner orter

 Can I get a hamburger? Hold the onions

 The Watch reacted at the same time as Erin tried to exin that she was just looking and asking what the news was. Erin was protesting as the Gnoll began listing dead Gnolls, growing louder and louder.

 Move it! Make way by order of the Watch!

 An entire squad of sixteen stormed down the street, forcing the crowd back. One of them, a Drake, pointed at Erin as they halted around her.

 Miss Solstice, by order of the Watch Captain, we have to escort you to the Watch House. Please dont approach the jail or start a riot!

 I wasnt gonna

 There she is! Intercept her before she gets to the jail!

 Another squad pounded down the street. The [Lieutenant] raised one hand and shouted at the second squad of Liscors Watch.

 We got her! Stand down!

 The other [Guards] stopped and looked visibly relieved. One of them actually took off a helmet to wipe at his brow. Erin began to feel hurt by all of thisuntil she remembered half the things shed done.

 Am I under arrest?

 The [Lieutenant] gave Erin a side-long look.

 And where would we put you? We evicted everyone but the worst criminals to get the Raskghar in there. No, the Watch Captain just requests your presence. Without incident? Please?

 I just wanted to find out what the Raskghar were up to. Okay, fine. Stop looking at me like that!

 Erin sighed and walked with the entire patrol moving around her, clearing a way down the street. After two streets she had to protest again.

 Guys. Guys. Can you stop shouting for people to clear the way? This is really embarrassing.

 Watch Captains orders, Miss. Move it, you lot! Youmaam. Maam. Stow that enchanted arrow now, please

 The air was tense. The city unhappy. And for some reason, Erin saw Ishkr bringing a stack of pizzas towards City Hall. Well, you didnt need an excuse for pizza, she supposed. Life got weird.

 Hey Zevara, you wanted to see me?

 The Watch Captain was in her office. The patrol, having escorted Erin to the building, loitered downstairs leaving Erin to walk up to the office and knock by herself.

 Come in. Have a seat, Miss Solstice.

 The Watch Captain looked weary. Sleepless. The look she gave Erin was only slightly less miffed than normal. In other words, deeply suspicious that Erin would ruin her day.

 Thank you for not causing an incident.

 She rubbed at one eye. Erin folded her arms.

 I wasnt going to! I just wanted to make sure the Raskghar werent up to something. Are they up to something?

 She took a seat as the Watch Captain looked around.

 Id offer you something to drink, but I dont know when that tea kettle appeared. As far as we understand itthese Raskghar are not here to cause trouble, but rather seek our help, Miss Solstice. Nokha and a smaller group have vanishedI have no idea if theyre in the city or far away, but Im posting an all-city bounty on them and issuing an alert as if they were all Gold-ranks.

 Help?

 Erin hadnt gotten a good look at the Raskghar. Zevaraid out their problem sinctly.

 Weve applied spells and most should live. They would have died without cures for the magical gues. As it isall of the [Guards] are on hazard pay for risk of catching something and were consulting with Typhenous about preventing the spread of disease. The citys being patrolled and I cant imagine there are enough Raskghar to mount a full-scale attack if thats how they all look. Sti small band of infiltrators is the real threat.

 The Watch Captain checked a list of patrols and a map of the city where shed strung up pins and thread to mark routes before turning back to Erin.

 With your permission, Ill have two squads supplement the Antinium in your inn. I understand youre using yourmagic garden-thing to protect some citizens? They should remain there if possible for the foreseeable future.

 That soundsgreat. Thank you.

 Erin decided that, on the whole, mentioning that she had two master-ss criminals who had been hired to protect her and a major gang chatting with the Antinium in her inn over snacks wasnt going to enliven Zevaras day. The Watch Captain nodded at her.

 As for the RaskgharOlesm has confirmed that Nokha gave them instructions to surrender to the city, in hopes of a cure. Hes also made it clear that the Raskghar dont have other ordersbut are unlikely to remain docile once they recover. Nor do we have the space in the prison at the moment. Hexel is already drawing up ns for secure containment, but it will take time, even with Antinium.

 Sounds about right. Are they under guard?

 Yes. I doubt two hundred could overwhelm the security checkpoint Calruzthe [Guards] set up.

 Calruz. Erin leaned forwards, urgently.

 Is he in there, with them?

 Yes. Still in his cell.

 Can you put him somewhere else? He doesnt deserve to be locked up with them. Hes not a monster.

 Zevara paused. She eyed Erin and shook her head slowly.

 There are no cells rated to hold someone of his level. Its temporary. But I cant deal with any issue other than the Raskghar. Half the city wants them dead. The other half just wants them gone. If I dont keep a majority of the [Guards] protecting the jand only the non-Gnollsthe crowd might rush in and ughter the Raskghar.

 Yeah, I saw that. Tense.

 The [Innkeeper] nodded slowly. Zevara waitedfor something? Erin stared at her nkly. After a second, the Drake coughed.

 That would be illegal, obviously. As Watch Captain my duty is to uphold thew. Not all the Raskghar are guilty of murder. Some are, obviously, but they cannot all be executed.

 Right.

 Another peek at Erin. The Drake slowly turned. She sat down and regarded Erin as she shuffled some papers into line.

 Youdont have anything to add, Miss Solstice? I had a patrol looking to prevent you from storming into the jail.

 I wouldnt do that. I meanI was going to ask, but I wouldnt storm in. I uhmight deserve that, but Im trying to be a good citizen! Really!

 Erin saw Zevara blink a few times at her. The Drakes face was ck. She was searching every inch of the young womans expression forwhat?

 So, you dont have an appeal for me about how the Raskghar should be treated?

 D-dont let them out? Watch out for Nokha?

 The nk look from both sides dragged out until Erin had to ask.

 What? What am I supposed to be doing?

 Zevara slowly sat back in her chair, staring at Erin with that strange expression in her eyes.

 Speaking up for the Raskghar. Convincing the crowd not to storm the jail. Worrying about theirwellbeing. Ensuring they are not executed out of hand.

 The [Innkeeper] sat there, confused.

 Me?

 But thenshe did see why Zevara and that Gnoll and the crowd would have thought that. Here was Erin Solstice, the Crazy Human of Liscor, the one who fought for Goblins, made friends with the Antinium.

 Do you agree that the Raskghar are not monsters but a people, Miss Solstice? It is not a view all Liscorians share. Even those on the Council. I reminded them that there should be justice. As with Calruz. Goblins, perhaps.

 Yeah. Nono killing all the Raskghar.

 Her heart wasnt in it. The Watch Captain looked at Erin strangely. The young woman felt self-conscious. She wasnt on the kill them all side. But it had never even urred to her to stick up for them.

 I thought youd have stronger opinions on the matter, Miss Solstice.

 The paper-shuffling thing seemed to be a self-defense mechanism for Zevara. Erin took a deep breath.

 Iagree with you, Zevara. The Raskghar arent all evil. Probably. Its good that theyre not being butchered.

 I see. And do you have any ideas about how to resolve this situation?

 Me?

 Zevara pped her papers down. A familiar snap returned to her voice.

 Yes, you! I asked you toe here so I could listen to your input about the Raskghar problem! I do not have a solution! But I hopedfor oncethat you would! I cannot let them be executed en masse! That is not justice!

 I agree with you, Zevara. But I dont have any ideas.

 The young woman sat there, looking at the Drake. The Watch Captain calmed down a bit.

 But you dont seem to care. Not about Raskghar. About Antinium or Goblins? If it were a Goblin tribebut Raskghar dont count?

 That stung a bit, and made Erin sit up. Because it wastrue.

 She looked in her heart for the outrage, the passion that would make her stand in front of the prison if it were Rags tribe and wave a g and dare a mob to attack. Even idiot nobles being hunted.

 And it was not there. It wasnt hard to understand, either.

 Goblinsyeah. Goblins maybe. Maybe not thethe Goblins who killed people in Invrisil. But if Goblins were defending themselves? Yeah. But the Raskgharhunted Gnolls. They ate them. Thats not the same, Zevara.

 Of course it isnt. Id be the first to say so. And yetI did expect you to defend them, Miss Solstice.

 Me? They nearly ate Mrsha! They tried to attack my inn yesterday!

 Erin gripped the desk in fury. Zevaras gaze didnt move.

 Goblins killed Senior Guardsman Klbkch. They attacked you multiple times. Again, I am not saying it is simr. I am just asking why it is different, Erin.

 The Human sat there. There was something in Zevaras gaze that bothered Erin more than the arguments. It wasdisappointment. And it stung Erin. She tried to qualify her side.

 Its because the Raskghar attacked. Not defended. They werent at war with other species. They saw Gnollsand sacrificed them. Itsits that. Goblins, Antiniumtheyre people. They attack and kill, but thats because they have enemies. Raskgharits in their very nature to want to eat Gnolls hearts, right?

 Indeed. Theyre creatures of legend. I have appeals from two dozen Gnoll tribes to execute or contain them.

 The Drake nodded. Erin went on.

 Soyeah. Thats why. They kidnapped Mrsha, a child, and were killing people. Systematically, in those rituals. Its not the same to me.

 Of course. Incidentally, Miss Solstice. Its said that Goblins are, by their nature, doomed to follow the Goblin King and destroy. The same could be said of the Antinium of Rhir. A relentless foe that

 Erin pped the table with her hands and stood up. Zevara looked up at her as the young woman took a deep breath.

 Dont do that.

 Miss Erin. Is your objection to the Raskghar personal? Because it was Miss Mrsha, your inn?

 It was. And both Human and Drake knew it. Erin Solstice turned away. When Zevaramented the other species Erin had stuck up for were the same, she had seen it too. IntellectuallyErin could admit it.

 There were probably Raskghar who were not evil. But she saw their species asevil. Dark. Where she had not with the Goblins and Antinium, it was true. She remembered the altar, the cage where Mrsha had been imprisoned. Where they would have dragged Elirr, Mrsha, every Gnoll they could find.

 The difference is that the Goblins, Antiniumits not so deliberate. They kill people likewarriors. The Raskghar? Its like torture. Itswrong.

 She couldnt exin it fully. Zevara nodded.

 But what if the practice of consuming Gnolls hearts is something they learn? Is it innate to Raskghar? That is what I have to know. Is a child Raskghar evil, Miss Solstice? Because we have many in our cells. And if I am not herethe rightfully grieving friends and families of those the Raskghar have killed will enter the jail and kill children and adults.

 She sat there, the one Drake who objected to the killings in a position of power to stop it. And she had called Erin Solstice here, for once not to berate her or stop her. But because shed been hoping for an ally.

 Ironically, the one time Erin had no sympathy to give. The [Innkeeper] stood up.

 IIm sorry, Zevara. But I agree with you. Ill say as much! Talk to Krshia

 I dont want or need that, Miss Solstice.

 Well, what am I supposed to do?

 Zevara stood up too.

 Be Erin Solstice. The young woman who always had a solution. Who never backed down in front of injustice as she saw it. Give mesomething. Because I need help.

 III

 Erin stood up. She pushed the chair into the desk, and walked towards the door. Zevara waited. Erin looked back at her.

 IIIm sorry.

 She closed the door. Zevara did not yell ore after her. Erin walked down the stairs.

 Miss Solstice? Any order from the Watch Captain?

 They were all looking at her. Erin shook her head, mutely. She noticed this squad had Gnolls in it since it wasnt on guard-duty. One of them raised a paw.

 It was Tkrn.

 Miss Solstice, I know the Watch Captain probably had words with youits not that we dont want to uphold thew. But its Raskghar. Everyone knows someone killed by them.

 I know.

 The squad waited. And since Erin didnt say anything, Tkrn awkwardly went on.

 Its justwe have family killed by the Goblins. And thats why were not okay with Goblins, some of us. But we get theyre not all alike. Humanssome died at the Bloodfields. But the Raskgharit feels different. Thats why

 I get it. I agree!

 They stared at her. Tkrn lowered his paw.

 Oh. Wellthats why. We just wanted you to know that.

 Erin couldnt take it. She left the Watch House. There were people outside too. Erin hadnt heard itZevaras office either had enchanted walls or they were thickbut they were shouting.

 Justice! Raskghar killed our families!

 One of them caught sight of Erin. It was a Gnoll. He lowered the sign, but didnt walk away.

 Im not wrong, Miss Human!

 He called out to her. Erin looked at him. The Gnoll was defiant.

 My daughter. She was fourteen.

 His voice cracked. He pointed towards the jail.

 They ate her. Why shouldnt I want them dead?

 Im not

 If it was a Goblin, I deserve justice. Just like anyone else! I deserve

 I know! I agree! Stop it!

 Erin shouted at him. The crowd, the watching [Guards]everyone fell silent. Erin looked around.

 I agree. Why do I have to object? Why do I

 She looked up at the Watch House. Zevara was watching her from the window. Erin closed her eyes.

 Why do I have to be the moral person here? For them?

 She turned to the Gnoll.

 You deserve justice. Just not all the Raskghar. But you deserved justice.

 He looked at her nkly.

 Thank you.

 Erin stumbled away. Why was Zevara turning to her for answers? People expecting her to stand in their way or argue with themwhy her?

 Because, a guilty little voice whispered in her heart. Because you stood there too many times and did what you thought was right. Defying everyone else.

 What made Raskghar different? So many things. And yetit was all familiar to them.

 Monsters. Could she call all of them monsters? Crelers? Because if Erin saw a Creler egg, shed stomp it and then burn her shoe and the gstones themselves. Crelers deserved no pity.

 But Raskghar?

 Erin! Erin Solstice!

 Mavi found Erin, breathless, but vibrant. She was smiling.

 There you are! Have you heard about the Hectval delegation and the little party?

 Hmm? Oh. No, Mavi. I havent.

 Erin mumbled. The [Lady] peered at her.

 You look put out. Well, I arranged a party in less than an hour. There will be Passian [Senators], a number of dignitariesI did use your name to gather some of the Gold-rank teams.

 Oh. Thats okay. Its for Liscor, right? Thanks.

 The ck-and-orange haired young woman hesitated. She had spoken about her aplishments like it was a challenge and seemed disappointed that Erin hadnt fired back. Mavi was acting weird, but Erin was staring at her feet. The [Lady] studied the Watch House.

 Sohave you settled the Raskghar issue yet? That would tie the score, or so I think.

 She missed Erins head rising and the sh in the young womans eyes.

 Why me? Why do I have to solve it?

 Erin screamed at Mavi. The [Lady] actually took a step back in surprise. Erin threw up her hands. She noticed a hatted duo watching her from down the street. She screamed at them, and Mavi. Her voice was growing too loudher Skill amplified it.

 Why do I need to solve every problem Liscor has? Im not a Watch Captain! Im not the person who made the Raskghar sick! I dont even own a sword! Why me?

 She felt silly and stupid as she threw a miniature tantrum on the street. Zevara had ignited the guilt in her and Mavi and the others were making it worse.

 After a few seconds, Mavi El cleared her throat. She looked at Erin kindly. Not unsympathetically. And also as if Erin was a brat Mavi was itching to smack.

 Erin, you are no [Lady]. Not of royal blood. Nor are you a leader of a city or own arge area ofnd. But you are a leader of people. Drakes have few nobility. But in northern Izrilthis is what we do. The nobility. This is what we are meant to do. More than squabble and amass our fortunes. When there is a problemthe nearest [Lady] or [Lord] solves it. You have solved so many of Liscors issues, identally or intentionally. And you wonder why they look to you now?

 The [Innkeeper] hung her head.

 I dont want to save the Raskghar. And that sounds wrong even as I say it.

 That is the difference between upholding thews and doing what you want.

 Erin nearly threw something at Mavi. Because she was right. It was how she said it that annoyed Erin so much. The Mavi who was old could say it more elegantly than the young one. The new one made Erin want to [Minotaur Punch] her for being right. No wonder she had made enemies.

 Okay. Okaywhat do I do?

 Erin stood in the street and raised her head. Now it had been saidshe could not unhear Zevaras words. She had not asked for a response from anyone in particr, but Mavi decided she had the answer.

 Perhaps some magic fire to calm the crowd?

 The young woman cracked one eye open. Mavi smiled at her. The fact that it was the exact thing that Erin had been thinkingand also that it came from Mavi meant Erin now hated it.

 You cant solve everything with fire.

 It seems you have, with my Skill. Why not? Youd be amazed at how many problems I solved in my youth by burning something down.

 The young woman put her face in her hands. Is this what she was like to Zevara?

 I hate your Youth Potion. You need a new one.

 Hah! Youve just never met anyone with spirit.

 The young [Lady] pped Erin on the back and grinned at her. Erin staggered, feeling the stinging pain. That had been on purpose. She told herself punching someone who was actually more than four times as old as she was, was not the right thing to do.

 Even soshe balled her hand upand saw Mavi was holding something.

 A red me. It was deep red, not like the red of a fire, but brighter than blood. It was beautifulbut even looking at it made Erin feel angrier. And she felt the emotioning from the fire.

 Fury. She looked at Mavi as the [Lady] held her fire made of memory and emotion.

 Try. We share the same fire, Erin. You can feed your anger into it. Id conjure another onebut this suited you. You are my inheritor. I should have taught you this long ago.

 The [Lady] smiled. Erin looked at Mavi and grew calmer. She stared at the fire. It wastaking her anger.

 I didnt know you could do that.

 Of course you didnt. You have a lot to learn.

 The fire jumped an inch in Mavis palms. Erin narrowed her eyes.

 Is now the moment to teach me?

 If you want to create more mes. I dont know what will fit, but I used a me of happiness in your inn and it helped. Heretry this one and Ill give you the others.

 Mavi offered Erin the me. The [Innkeeper] sighed. She reached out for the fire, reluctantly. The [Lady] transferred it to Erins palms

 And the fire went out. The two stared at the spot it had been. Then Mavi looked at Erin usatorially.

 You did that on purpose.

 No I didnt! Okay, I wasnt feeling happy with you, but that should havecan you do it again?

 Of course I can. Here.

 Mavi made another angry-fire. Erin glowered at her as the [Lady] dropped it in Erins palms.

 This time actually c

 It went out the instant it touched Erin. The two stared at each other.

 You are doing it on purpose. Stop being petty.

 The [Lady] folded her arms. Erin threw up her hands again.

 Me, being petty?

 Then she realized what was wrong. Erin checked herself.

 No. Oh no. Im covered in hate fire again! Its all over me! No wonder Ive been feeling terrible! How do I get it off? How do I

 Mavi smacked Erin on the shoulder.

 Youre not on fire! Id be able to tell!

 Stop hitting me!

 Erin swung at Mavi and the [Lady] backed up. The two gave each other bad-natured looks. Mavi took a deep breath and visibly centered herself.

 Im going to try again with calming fire. Calm. Perhaps youre just not able to work the me of fury at the moment.

 s a stupid sounding name.

 The [Lady]s eyebrows twitched. She produced a tiny me of calm and handed it to Erin.

 Just take some this time.

 Erin reached out to pluck the fire from Mavis palm. She grabbed at itand her fingers passed through.

 Ooh! Thats cool!

 What is going on? Pick it up!

 Im trying! Its not

 The fire went out. This time because Mavi clearly lost whatever calmness had gone into the fire to begin with.

 What is happening? Can you take this fire or not?

 The furious red me covered her arms and set her long hair ame. Erin backed up. She saw Mavi extend a burning arm at her.

 Take the damn fire already!

 Erin grabbed at itand got a handful atst! The fire sputtered on her hand for half a second. And then it went out.

 Slowly, the mes on Mavi went out. She and Erin stood there, on the street, panting and looking at each other. Someone tossed them a copper coin. It bounced past Erins left foot. Mavi scooped it up and threw it back at the person whod tossed it.

 Whats going on?

 She turned to look at Erin. The [Innkeeper] thought she knew.

 Itsdifferent. Your fire and mine. Isnt that it?

 The [Lady Firestarter] hesitated. Both of them could remember when their Skills had mixed and let them see into each others memories. And Mavis fireshe had demonstrated each one she had to Erin.

 Your firesorrow, depression was blue. I have sadness. But its not like yours.

 And my hate fireits different from your color. That has to matter.

 Slowly, Mavi nodded. It was different perspectives. Erin thought of the color of her happiness. Different from the yellow of Mavis. Glory was pinkto Mavi it was gold.

 I dont think you can teach fire that easily. At leastnot if were like this.

 Slowly, the [Lady] nodded.

 Im sorry. I suppose I dont know how my Skill interacts with other people. You are the first Ive met.

 Yeah. Sorry for snapping at you. Its just beenIm stressed.

 Im not sorry.

 Erins face twitched. She looked away from Mavi. The fire thing had been a pleasant distraction. What she needed

 Was to figure out what the Raskghar were to her. She walked off. Towards the one ce that had the answer. Mavi El hesitated. Then followed. Erin really wished she hadnt. Young Mavi was kind of a jerk. Beautiful and passionate. But also a jerk.

 -

 Later that night, Lism was pondering the definition of words. And he was pleased that this was the only concern in his immediate life. He nced around the decorated entrance of City Hall, which could serve as a functional ballroom if you did a bit with it.

 [Waiters] were serving food to the glittering crowd standing around and talking. There was no dancing, but a wonderful ambient music was floating through the hall. Drakes were talking in groups; most of the Gnolls were busy with the Raskghar business, but adventurers and Drakes mixed and a few Gnolls were present from Hectval as well. The yers of Celum had their own group of attention and the entire atmosphere? Convivial. Cozy, without being cramped.

 Most excellent. Lism sipped from his ss as he thought.

 Would it be polite to call it a soire? No, wait, those were in smaller houses. Well, this was a reception then.

 Lism was muddling over the exact wording for the speech he had to give. He nervously adjusted the ruff of one of the very traditional suits hed put on. But this was a sess. Mavis efforts had paid off.

 No, this was a triumph. Liscors City Hall was filled with dignitaries. [Senators], Guild Leaders, and rich (and thus, important) people from Pass and Liscor.

 It was the kind of thing that impressed. Even Gold-rank teams, who liked to hobnob since a lot of the richest members of a city were often the ones whod hire you.

 Dazzling, radiantand the pizzas looked fancy. At least, to Lism. Gold kes. There had to be something fancy about them if you ended eating gold, right? He heard amotion from the doors.

 Get back here! Hes stolen a pizza!

 One of the food thieves. They got everywhere. Ancestors! Lism was sort of d, actually. It proved there was something to steal.

 And certainlyhe owed Krshia arge debt. Even that Mavi character might be decent, halfway worthy of Olesm. No Erin Solstice had popped out, no Crelers had tunneled out of the cake to attack everyoneit was an unmitigated victory for Liscor.

 Even more than Lism could have predicted. Mystifyingly so. The Scalespeaker of Hectval, Yisht, lushed over to Lism. And that was the correct word in this case.

 Councilmember Lism. Thisthis is hospitality. ept my deepest gratitudeand you have my apologies. Just this morning I thought this city was a cesspool and look at it now!

 He had a ss of expensive wine in one w and a ruby plucked from a cake wedge in the other. Drakes hadnt ever seen the El family style of decorating appetizers and theyd made a run on the desserts. It was the glitter, the shine.

 Delighted, Scalespeaker. And never mind the introductions, eh? Your delegation is wee in Liscor! Its splendid to have you!

 The two Drakesughed together. Hectvals delegation were socializing with the people in the room, and positively beaming with Tismel, Ziss, and Alonna, who were the Councilmembers present.

 Strange, though. The Hectval delegations attitudes had done a one-eighty since arriving. The Scalespeaker nodded.

 The fault was mine. Misconceptions, you see, Councilmember Lism. Ill have the mud on my tail when I go back to exin it. But youve been nothing but hospitable in clearing this mess up and Im sending for proper gifts to match this generosity as we speak. Just wanted to let you know that thisthis wont be forgotten.

 He gestured around the room. Lismughed and smiled as Yisht escorted him around. And he resisted the urge to shout what the hell was going on?

 They must have really wowed the Drake city, or they didnt have experience with this kind of wealth. Lism puffed up. At least hed have something good to rte to Krshia tonight. He thought he could sequester some of the good food; they could have it at his apartment.

 He hoped the Raskghar issue was settled. And hed introduce Krshiater. A sess! They were going to have to do this again as well! The Passian people were so taken with this event that they were asking if they could do it again.

 Just elegant food, good conversationfor the gifts between Hectval and Liscor? Of course. And here I thought Liscor was unstylish, pardon me. But this

 A Drake from Pass rolled her eyes and eximed. Even Tismel and Ziss and the old Council were pulling their weight. Yes, Lism beamed as he took a drink.

 It was alling up just fine. He saw someone waving urgently at him behind Yisht.

 Ah, excuse me, Scalespeaker. Perhaps something to do with the Raskgharwe will certainly have time to continue this.

 The Drake waved him off jovially. Lism hurried over to Jeiss, who was waving at him in armor, looking worried.

 Jeiss! This is going amazingly well! I have no idea what we did, but that Mavi saved our tails! Please tell me its not an emergency.

 Its

 Lism closed his eyes.

 Dont say it. Please.

 Erin S

 The Drake wanted to cry. He covered his face as Jeiss patted him on the shoulder.

 -

 An hour ago.

 Erin Solstice stood in the prison. The [Guards] had let her through the crowd on Zevaras orders. They were staring nervously at her from their double-line of fortifications.

 They were ready to destroy the entire prison and everyone in it. The Raskghar were dangerous. Even behind barsErin had a sense that if they worked together, they might be able to rip a bar free or something.

 And even if they couldnt? They just gave her the impression of being wild things locked up.

 The [Guards] had cautioned her to stay back from the bars. She had eight around her, all the best fighters, watching the Raskghar carefully. For their part, the Raskghar stared at the backs of the cells, away from the bars.

 They were still sick, but noticeably better after having the gue spells dispersed. Some were eating, but most had ravenously consumed the food.

 It smelled. There were sewage holes that allowed waste to beprocessed, but the Raskghar themselves sort of smelled and the excrement-shafts were very small. That was important; you could smuggle something in or out that way. A master [Thief] could squeeze through improbably small ces.

 Erin wondered if the Gentlemen Callers had followed them inside. She looked around. If Wilovan and Ratici were here, they werent immediately noticeable. And as they had saidthey couldnt save her from everything.

 So she was careful. Erin Solstice looked around. Mavi had left to find Olesm after taking one whiff of the prison. There wasnt much for her to see, anyways.

 Here were the Raskghar. What did you do with them? Erin saw small Raskghar, sniffing at her. But they didnt look like Mrsha.

 They looked like they were wondering if they could kill her if she was in the cell with them. But maybe that was bias? Goblin childrenPebblesnatch had been dangerous.

 Pebblesnatch.

 The poor, happily cooking Cave Goblin with her poofy hat. Erin clutched her heart. She had been a ve to the Raskghar.

 It was the wrong thing to remember here. Erin Solstice looked at the eyes watching her, glinting in the hungnterns light. And she tried.

 The young woman walked down the jail. She came to a stop at a glowing cell and looked in.

 Hi, Calruz.

 Erin Solstice. Zevara was expecting you. I did not hope to find you here.

 The Minotaur was petting one of the two rats. The other was perched on his head. Erin almost smiled at the sight. But it was another reminder.

 A rat king made by a little Gnoll. A tortured Minotaur. Justice and

 Zevara was right. But why didnt you want me to be here?

 The Minotaur bared his teeth.

 Because there is nothing to save. Goblins? Goblins can fight with honor, for all they are a foe my people have fought against. Antinium may be a people, foreign as they are. But the Raskghar are nothing but madness. Look at me.

 He gestured to himself.

 There is nothing for you here to redeem, Erin Solstice. Tell Zevara that. She will not listen.

 Maybe because she believes in you.

 The Minotaurs eyes flickered.

 It is the one w in a goodno, an excellent Watch Captain. Justice, Erin Solstice. Let those outside have their justice. Or let me exact mine and we will close this chapter, the Raskghar and I.

 Erin looked at him. The cells stirred. She looked around. And she did not miss the looks some of the [Guards] gave Calruz. They were not entirely hateful.

 Zevara spoke to me, Calruz. Aboutjustice. She has a good point. Not all of the Raskghar are murderers. Therere kids here.

 And some ate the hearts of Gnolls for power. I ordered it.

 The Minotaur did not blink. He didnt stop petting the rat either, with a finger as gentle as a feathers touch. The rat curled up its tail and yawned as it stared ahead. It was happy.

 It was easier for rats. They did not have to judge. And it was that reason why Erin came here. To find what Zevara wanted. She looked around.

 Its not right to punish a species foreverything.

 A snort from behind her.

 No? Perhaps not. But if justice waits, it is not justice at all. How long must the grieving wait for the murderers to die?

 At least a day.

 Erin thought she heard a chuckle from a [Guardsman]. She looked around, unsmiling.

 What?

 The patrol fell silent. Back to Calruz, the young woman walked.

 Its not right to let a mob in here and tear people apart, Calruz. Thats why thews there. You dont hang people instantly either. You make sure theyre the ones who didwhatever it was. Justiceprobably shouldnt be swift. Thats more like vengeance.

 But either way. Murder was done and far worse than murder. Ask the living. Ask the child. Look at them, Erin Solstice.

 The Minotaur was unwavering. Erin stood up. And she did look. She did try.

 Raskghar. There was a cell of young ones. If they werent sorge, Erin might have called themfour? Six? They were the youngest living ones.

 There were no babies here. The gue must have killed them. Erin tried to think of that.

 Can I see them?

 Theyre dangerous, Miss Solstice.

 Just one?

 The Senior Guardswoman considered that.

 Back up. Back upthis one. Forwards.

 She pointed to the smallest Raskghar. They others crept forwards, but the [Guards] pped long-handled poles on the ground and they moved back.

 Now thatthat seemed wrong to Erin. Even soshe looked at the little Raskghar.

 Hello. Can you understand me?

 It growled at Erin. Making a low whining sound. Erin felt like she was talking to a feral dog. Maybe it was too young.

 Im Erin Solstice. Are you okay? Can youdo you know what Im saying?

 No response. Had the moons already waned? The Raskghar just crouched on all-fours, peering at Erin. It was so young. Andit wasnt cold, but the Raskghar looked like it was shaking a bit.

 Whats wrong? Ishe?cold?

 The [Innkeeper] turned to the [Guards]. They shook their heads.

 Shakes, Miss. [Healer] says its not cold. They didnt want the nkets. At least, this one didnt.

 They pointed at the pile one Raskghar was curled up in. The young woman nodded. Then she eyed the Raskghar again. It looked thin. No doubt starved.

 Can I give them some food?

 We fed them

 The [Guardswoman] saw Erin dig at her belt. Slowly, Erin pulled outsome dried meat. A snack. Jerky.

 The Raskghar sniffed. It edged closerthe [Guards] warned the others to stay back.

 Slowly, so slowly, Erin extended her arm with the bit of meat. She tried to wave it in order to capture the Raskghar childs attention

 Hi. Can you talk to me? Are you hungry? Whats your name?

 The child looked at Erin. And then it lunged. Erin jerked her hand back as the jaws snapped next to where her hand and the meat had been.

 Back!

 One of the [Guards] yanked Erin back. Shey there, panting, as the Raskghar child fled, disguising itself among the others.

 Erin heard silence. Theughter. Her skin prickled.

 It did note from the Watch. She looked overand a Raskghar crouched at the front of her cage.

 Arge one. She was more like a Gnoll. But agairger. Primal, like what Gnolls were in times before they had possessed spears and weapons and had to defend themselves with w and muscle alone.

 Little one stupid. I. I Asoma. Still speak. You give food? Kind master.

 The words. Erin stared at the Raskghar as the squad froze, watching the Raskghar and waiting for Erin to move. That sounded like speech. But the Raskghar was both too intelligent and undeserving of thenguage at the same time.

 It sounded like an evil parody of speech. And there it was again. The Raskghar might have been smart, with the effects of the full moons but it was not clever except in the way a predator was. Erin got the distinct impression the female Raskghar wanted to get something more to eat, or be favored. It was obvious.

 Asoma? Your names Asoma?

 Yes. Good Raskghar. We surrender. Kind not-Gnolls have mercy. Asoma be good ve. Clean. Lift things. Kill things for masters.

 The Raskghar smiled like a lying child standing over a dead pet. Erin shook her head.

 We dont want ves. And we know what you did.

 Asoma looked at Erin curiously.

 You are not Gnolls.

 Why do you care? Erin shook her head. It was not like talking to Numbtongue, or even one of the Goblins like Rags with a poormand ofnguage. Her [Dangersense] was a constant buzz in this ce.

 Why did you kill Gnolls?

 A nk look. Then Asoma bowed her head to the ground.

 Bad things. Very sad! We never do again! Mercy! Surrender!

 The other Raskghar in her cell and who were listening echoed the words, sounding piteous. But Erin had not missed the nk expression on Asomas face where shed been thinking of what to say.

 She looked towards Calruz cell. He watched her and nodded.

 Look at them. There was not an ounce of contrition in Asoma, no matter how she made her face contort.

 Do Raskghar know how to cry?

 The words slipped out of Erin. Asoma looked up.

 Yes. Cry much. No tears left?

 Dead gods, shut up.

 One of the [Guards] muttered. They were possessed of the same loathing of this moment as Erin. She shook her head. Thisthis was having the opposite effect she wanted.

 Asoma. Just you speak. Asomawhy did you surrender? What did the Raskghar want?

 The Raskghars eyes flickered. Then she pointed at an open sore that had erased fur in a patch across her chest, one of many.

 Bad pain. Bad sick. Make stop. Come here for

 Mercy. Yes. And when youre all better, what will you do?

 Another flicker of the eyes. Then a smile.

 Surrender. Not do anything. Good Raskghar. Eat, sleep, grow more

 A mutter. Asomas ears twitched and she amended the statement quickly.

 Grow bigger. Stronger. Serve masters.

 It was soErin closed her eyes. She couldnt even lie for Asoma. Grow more Raskghar? Until the silly masters dropped their guard and the Raskghar went back into the dungeon, maybe with some Gnolls?

 What was she supposed to do? Erinwantedto draw her knife. To demand to know which Raskghar had killed Gnolls. And then?

 Maybe that was it. She had never gotten that vibe from Numbtongue. But perhapsErin opened her eyes.

 And she saw a murderer smiling back. Not like her. Not with the same reasons as a Human might have. Butsomeone who had done evil.

 She had seen people like that before. Different than a monster. Erin remembered a face. A terrible suspicion.

 Regrika ckpaw. The Named Adventurer had killed Ulrien, murdered Brunkr. When Erin had confronted her and the other Drakethey had that same look in their eyes.

 Everything but remorse. Erin opened her eyes. Yesit was simple, really.

 Are you sorry for what youve done?

 The Raskghar opened her mouth at once. Erin cut her off.

 No. Be silent. Listen. Dont lie to me. I can tell when youre lying. I have a SkI have great magic. See?

 She raised her hand. And produced a little me of sadness. Becausethe Raskghar locked eyes on it.

 Powerful magic.

 Oh yes. And I want to know. I wont be angry. Are you sad?

 Asoma hesitated. Her eyes flickered.

 Youre going to lie to me. Dont think. Just answer.

 The Raskghar muttered in theirnguage. One of the [Guards] banged on the bars and there was silence. Erin changed tactics.

 Lets go even simpler, Asoma. Are you afraid of dying?

 Yes.

 The Raskghar nodded. Erin nodded. Animals. Animals could be afraid. That was what separated animals from rocks and stuff. But people?

 You killed Gnolls. Gnolls who had families. You know families?

 Yes. Raskghar havebigger Raskghar make smaller Raskghar.

 Asoma gestured, spreading her legs and pulling aside a corroded leather skirtErin looked away. She looked at Asoma.

 Yes. The Gnolls had parents. Children. Family. You killed them. Do you feel sorry for that?

 The Raskghar opened her mouth. She looked at Erin, and saw the young woman peering at her intently. I will know if you lie. She considered this. Erin broke into the silence again.

 Do you have ano. Do you have amate? A favorite Raskghar?

 Yes. There.

 Asoma pointed. Erin didnt look. That was true. One of the [Guards] had produced a truth stone and was consulting it.

 Would you be sad if that Raskghar died?

 A worried growl. Asoma wasnt worried, though. Her eyes flickered to Erins face and she nodded.

 Yes. Sad.

 They were getting somewhere. But againanimals could be sad. As much as people, more, perhaps. Erin didnt know.

 But sorry?

 You killed Gnolls. Gnolls who were like that Raskghar is to you. They are very sad. Are you sorry for doing it?

 The Raskghar pondered this. She sat there. And Erin tried to persuade her to tell the truth. Her aura was almost nonexistent outside of her inn. But look at me [Crowd Control]. Whatever she had

 Tell me. Show me theres something. Atst, Asoma looked at Erin directly.

 Why? Why am I sorry?

 Erin sat back. A mutter ran through the listening Watch.

 Because it was wrong. Becauseit led to this. You being sick. Being hunted.

 She pointed at Asoma. The Raskghar slowly nodded. Erin whispered. Her throat felt tight.

 I wont be angry. I just have to know. Now that you know all thatare you sorry?

 Asoma looked at her warily. So Erin Solstice smiled. It wasnt even a good smile. But Asoma saw that and rxed. She spoke.

 No.

 -

 There was no redemption to be found there. Not in the Raskghar. Asoma had none in her. Perhapsperhaps she didnt know it was wrong.

 Or maybe there really wasnt anything in her. Erin had to stand next to a wall and inhale the smell of an alleyway for nearly ten minutes after leaving that cell.

 No wonder Calruz had gone mad. Look at them. Perhaps the childrenbut the Raskghar boy, if it had been a boy, hadnt even seemed like he understood Erin at all.

 Kill them all? Erin wasnt there. But it was more like the issue of killing a bunch ofwild dogs. She hated the Raskghar. And she saw little there to uncover.

 Even sohad Zevara spoken to them? Looked into their very souls and seen the smiling Raskghar who would have eaten Gnolls hearts all over again? Surely she had. And still, she looked at thew and the <emw was clear.

 But Erins heart was not. And it was her heart she was guided by. She had fought for Goblins. Because she could look at Numbtongues face and see in the crimson eyes tears. She could remember a Goblin smiling as she held his hand and he died.

 There was nothing for the Raskghar. So what did she do?

 Miss Solstice? Are you alright?

 One of the [Guards] followed Erin outside. Shed practically run from the cell after a few more minutes. He offered her a handkerchief.

 Huh?

 Erin looked at him. He gestured to her.

 Youre crying.

 She was. Not for the Raskghar. Just for the bitterness of it all. Her friendswho got tarnished by the same brush as the Raskghar. Erin wiped at her eyes.

 Im sorry. Its horrible in there. Ithe Raskghar arent like Goblins or Antinium.

 The Drake shook his head as he took the handkerchief back.

 No they are not, Miss. But orders are orders. Laws thew, am I right?

 He looked at her as if to ask. Was he right? People wanted to know. They looked to Erin. Why was she?

 Because Mavi was right. If anyone was going to give the Raskghar the benefit of the doubtshe took a huge breath.

 Zevara. Is right. Thews right. If the Raskghar are peopleif they were animals. Like this herd of wolves that ate people.

 Erpack of wolves. They dont have herds.

 Erin red at the Drake and he shut up.

 Pack of wolves. Okay, if there was apack of wolves, and they ate people. What would they do?

 Send for [Hunters]. Exterminate the pack. Wolves that eat peopletheyre people-eaters.

 Erin nodded.

 But are like, wolf pups going to do that? What if you let them live? Adopted them?

 The Drake sighed.

 Some might say they learned from their parents.

 But do they deserve to die?

 He hesitated.

 I wouldnt object if the [Hunters] let em live. Some might.

 Erin nodded. She didnt know where she was going with this. It was justif you let animals live, you should probably let people do the same. She tried to summarize it.

 Zevara is right. Raskghar can think. They can use tools and stuff. Theyre people. Unless they have no hearts or souls.

 She and the Drake paused.

 On paper, Zevara is right. If you dont talk to Raskgharshes right that some deserve a chance.

 And there it was. Reality did not meet expectations, please send other species for mercy. Because the Raskghar deserved none. And Erin could not immediately prove they had anything worthy of redemption in them.

 Gnolls were dead. Murderersclear murderers sat in the prison. Erin took a deep breath.

 What do I say?

 Let em all go to the noose except the children? Or the ones whore actually innocent?

 The young woman looked up at the Drake [Guard]. She closed her eyes and then nodded. She stood up and looked around, lost.

 Yeah. Im afraidthats close.

 But how did you even do that? The crowd was gathering. The Raskghars cells were overcrowded. And thisthis city did not want even that lenience. It wanted blood. Death. Erin looked across it all. And she went to find a jury of the Raskghars peers.

 -

 It was a simple question Erin asked Numbtongue. Then Pawn. And then Bird becauseit was a wildcard answer.

 What would you do about the Raskghar?

 She wasnt expecting wisdom. But they were the same people who had faced simr treatment. Her answer was simple.

 Kill the adults. Let children go. Kill them if they grow up and try to kill you. Or kill all of them.

 Numbtongues was a Redfangs answer. There was no equivocation. And it was a bloodthirsty answer until Erin remembered he was still a Goblin who had fought other tribes and other peoples. Murder was murder.

 Ibelieve only the Raskghar who were responsible for killing a Gnoll directly should be killed.

 Pawns was the opposite of the spectrum. Erin asked why. The [Priest] sped his hands together.

 If it were Antiniumthey would follow orders. Antinium have killed many for the Queens. They would not know better. Perhaps.

 And what do you do with the survivors, Pawn?

 He looked at her.

 Try to make them better, Erin. As you did with us. Did you see nothing of us in there? If they are a people

 I didnt, Pawn.

 The Worker hesitated. He looked at Erin.

 Nothing?

 Not that I could see.

 Solemnly, Pawn nodded. He looked at Erin, sitting wan at the table.

 Perhaps, then, you must believe there is goodness there. And try.

 That answer bothered her almost as much as Numbtongue. Erin had sat right there and looked at Asoma. Surely

 Lastly, Bird. The Worker sat in his tower. When he looked at Erin, it was solemnly as he gnawed on a drumstick bone.

 What does thew say, Erin?

 About the Raskghar?

 Yes.

 It says

 Do that. I will have another question if you wish.

 Erin Solstice sat there. She looked at Bird.

 Do what thew says?

 Yes. If it is thew and thew is right, follow thew. Otherwise it is a badw. These are easy questions, by the way.

 Bird smiled, pleased with himself. Erin sighed.

 Youre right. Thank you, Bird.

 She turned to go. Then she stopped.

 You are right about that.

 Yes. So you have said twice.

 There wassomething Erin could do. She thought of it as she walked down from Birds tower. Just give up. Obey thew. Zevara was right.

 The only problem was that Erin still had to askby what standard did you treat the Raskghar? Kill the adults? Kill the murderers and raise the children as best you could? It would be a nightmare. And that was if there was something in them.

 She had to know. Erin walked through her magical door and came back thirty minutester. She had a long conversation with someone and then came back. Lyte looked quizzically at her.

 Erin?

 Someonesing, Lyte. This ce will be busywe might have to move the door. I have everything but

 She clenched her hand over her chest.

 It still doesnt feel right.

 The young woman had a decent answer. Even soshe could not forgive them. And that was the heart of it.

 Erin Solstice hated the Raskghar. She hated what they had done. For Elirrfor Mrsha, who was hiding in the Garden? Erin wanted to kill them.

 She took out the jar of acid and stared at it. It was more than she had felt for many enemies. Face-Eater moths? Monsters. You killed them to defend yourself. Enemy Human army? Oh yes, she hated them, but not with the same intensity. It was the leader who was most culpable.

 Thisthis was like only a few others. Regrika ckpaw.

 Skinner.The Crelers who she thought had killed her friends.

 And onest nameher greatest failure.

 Toren.

 Erins eyes opened.

 Toren.

 Lyte flinched. Erin looked at her.

 Could you ever forgive Toren, Lyte? Could you ever forgive me fornot knowing what he was doing?

 She had never forgotten or forgiven herself after putting together the pieces. Toren had killed people. Lyte was slow in replying.

 I can forgive you, Erin. Iit took time, but you didnt know. But thatthing?

 She shook her head.

 That was a monster.

 Her knuckles were white on the broomstick. Erin nodded. Toren had tormented Lyte. He had killed so many. Tried toe after her.

 And yetshe sat in her inn. And remembered how it ended.

 He had ced his hands together and made the symbol Mrsha used in her signnguage. A simple symbol.

 Love. A heart. It had broken. And hed removed his head and died. Hehad been choking her. But he had not killed her.

 Was that thest bit of redemption in a monster? Perhaps Toren could not be forgiven. But Erin had seen at hisstthat he was not a skeleton. Not a monster, or undead. But a person.

 He might have still deserved death. But she should have given him that chance long ago.

 Toren. Erin slowly rose. And she had her answer. In Liscors jail, there were two hundred Torens. Not in the same way. But Erin had, had to trust Bird. The singing, silly Worker was the smartest of them all.

 Trust Zevara. Because she was right. Thew existed to protect people. And you had to believe the Raskghar were people. Who would be tried. Erin took a breath.

 And she felt lighter.

 So thats how it is. It wasnt in them all along. Silly Human.

 Lytes back was to Erin. She was sweeping up gold leaf that had been dropped on the ground.

 What was that, Erin? Are they getting to you in Liscor? And whosing through the door? Is it

 She heard a gasp. A small intake of breath. Lyte du Marquin saw a glow illuminate the inn. The [Princess] turned.

 Erin Solstice held a me in her palms. She had reached into her chest and pulled it out. It had been there all along. She had found none in the Raskghar. Because it was not in them.

 Erinwhat fire is that?

 The [Princess] lowered the broom. Erin, the [Innkeeper] cupped her hands slowly. The me was grey. Not white. Not ck. But perfectly, even agonizingly split between the two. Radiant. Yetstatic. The mes looked cut out of the air, moving with an odd pattern, like stop-motion. Each me as if it were a single image reformed in a slightly different spot and size a momentter.

 What fire? What emotion? Lyte opened her mouth to ask again. But she realized she didnt have to. It burned in her. Erin lifted the fire. And she said

 -

 Mavi El sensed the fire like a spark in her mind. She entered the inn, panting. And there Erin Solstice stood. She turnedand Mavi gasped.

 Whatwhat is that me?

 You dont know it?

 The [Lady] shook her head. She struggled for words as she stared at the foreign fire.

 Thats notIve never seen it before. How did you? It shouldnt be possible.

 She had never made the fire Erin was holding. Hers were emotions. They zed across Mavis soul. But the one Erin held? The [Innkeeper] returned the [Lady]s gaze.

 A different perspective.

 Mavi straightened. And she nodded, slowly. She pointed.

 Thats your fire. Yours and yours alone. Idont know if I could create it. Learn it? Perhaps. But I could never form the spark. How did you?

 The young woman looked down.

 It was in me the whole time. I just didnt see it with the Raskghar.

 The me flickered in her palms, growingrger. It was a single idea. But tooplex for any one emotion. Mavi read the fires nature in a moment as Erin closed her eyes.

 Mercy.

 A word the Raskghar used but had no notion of. Yetshe did. The fire Erin Solstice held was grey.

 Grey. Neither ck nor white, but the most terrible of the mes Erin had ever conjured. It was not invisible hatred, eating away at your body. It was

 Lyte. I need to borrow your broom.

 Silently, the [Princess] held out her broom. Erin took it. The mes covered the handle of the broom, the brush end, slowly, as Erin ran her palm down it.

 The fire caught and burned. The woodbegan to disintegrate. Faster than hatred, or depression. Not as fast as happiness left. But a slow wane.

 And the way the fire looked. It was that static impression of des that made Mavi marvel. As if each lick of me wereseparate. Cutting, rather than burning.

 It was a stick with a thousand des of fire. Erin swung it. It was not a good weapon. But it did hurt. She lifted it up, and then shouldered it.

 Let them into Liscor, Lyte. Im going first. To make sure.

 She walked out of themon room and into the hallway. Mavi followed. The [Innkeeper] walked into the hallway, and then found a Hobgoblin. He was ying cards with two fellows with hats.

 The Gentlemen Callers looked up. Wilovan and Ratici stared at the ming broom. Numbtongue just grinned.

 Nice fire.

 Thanks. Im going for a walk, you guys. I dont think therell be trouble. But there might be a mob and riot if it goes badly.

 Ratici opened his mouth. That didnt sound like no trouble to him. But his objections were forestalled as he looked at Erins face.

 Well then, I suppose we should apany you. Its gettingte and it wouldnt do to leave ady unattended, wouldnt you say so, sir?

 Wilovan adjusted his vest and looked at Numbtongue. The Hobgoblin raised an eyebrow and grinned.

 Wilovan

 My dear mother told me never to get in the way of a proper woman, Ratici. And that advice seems to hold true here.

 The Gnoll watched Erin Solstice march into Liscor. Lyte saw the two Gentlemen Callers and Numbtongue follow Erin.

 Mercy. She was seen the moment she walked into Liscor, of course. By the Watch who went to find Zevara. The Drake was on a call. She lowered the speaking stone.

 Let her go.

 She exhaled and sagged onto her desk.

 Thank you, Erin Solstice.

 She would deny ever saying that, of course.

 -

 More people saw the young woman marching with the ming broom coated in mercys fire. It was so bright. Of all the mes Erin had ever madeit illuminated more with grey light than anything but glory. And it was a longer light.

 Stop. Dont do this!

 The Gnoll who had lost a daughter barred Erins way. He looked at the fire she held. And he knew what it was. Buthe put one paw out.

 Not for them. Please. Dont do this.

 There was so little of it in him. Not for them. Erin Solstice nodded.

 Dont worry. There will be justice. Trust me. I just want to see.

 But youre holding

 The Gnoll looked at her uncertainly. Erin held the stick out. The edges were sharp enough to cut hershe wasnt immune to this fire.

 Its mine. But its not soft. See?

 It cut him too. The Gnoll lowered his arm. And Erin walked on.

 She had been looking for it in the wrong ce. Redemption from the Raskghar? She had felt it talking to Zevara. And she had some herself.

 The crowd in front of the jail didnt want to let Erin through. Even the [Guards] were uncertain. She turned to them.

 I wont let them go free. I just want to see for a moment. They will not go free. There will bew. But thats not going toe from me. I promise.

 It reassured them. A bit. Perhaps they would have not let her through if she was anyone else. But she had earned a chance. So Erin walked into the jail, bearing the waning torch.

 The Raskghar in their cells looked up as the harsh light flooded into the prison. They looked uncertainly at each other.

 Then came the Human. Asoma stared at Erin Solstice as she walked into view. She threw up her ws and covered her face.

 It hurts!

 Erin Solstice sighed. The broom was falling to pieces. But the me still burnedradiant in this ce. It was, to her, a harsh light.

 But blinding to the Raskghar. Painful. She held up the me and the Raskghar shied away, covering their eyes. They whimpered and whined, crying out in pain.

 It hurts!

 More than just them. Calruz stared at the me that cut him just by sight alone. He knelt. The pain was wee and bitter to him.

 Numbtongue leaned against the prisons entrance. He looked after Erin and waved at the [Guards] waiting there. They stared at the mes, almost missing him entirely.

 Why does it hurt? And why are you smiling?

 Erin Solstice had tossed down the broom onto the floor. The remnants of the fire burned away the wood. But she was walking back. And there was a faint smile on her face.

 It was the proof I wanted, thats all. The fire.

 Mercy.

 The Gentlemen Callers stood, listening. They had taken off their hatsa gesture that meant something else anywhere else. But they listened now, as the [Innkeeper] spoke to the Goblin.

 Because it hurts. If they were monsters, it wouldnt hurt.

 Oh. So what does it change? Can it make thembetter?

 The [Innkeeper] shook her head.

 I dont have that kind of power, Numbtongue. The fires for me, not for them. Thats sort of how it works. That is all I can give them. Give Liscor and Zevara.

 She pointed. A secondmotion was urring outside. Her visitors had arrived and Lyte had let them into the city.

 In the end, Bird was right. Erin had no good answer for the Raskghar. Neither did Zevara. But they could not stay here. Not in Liscors jail, where they were wanted dead.

 It wasnt even a nice jail. Sort of smelly, small, nothing to do, and the Minotaur had dibs. But Erin had been in arger, nicer prison. Very secure. Lots of space.

 An old Drake walked forwards, using a cane to support his weight. He was nked by dozens of [Soldiers] in yellow armor. He nodded at Erin. And Watch Captain Zevara and the Watch of Liscor. When he spokeit was in the same ringing tones with which she had heard him defying the Wyverns.

 I am Grand Strategist Chaldion. By my authority, and the consent of the Watch Captain of Liscor, I will take the Raskghar prisoners to Pass.

 A roar of protest followed his words. The [Strategist] shed with a w and there was silence. He went on.

 Given the nature of the crimes the Raskghar havemittedthey will all be tried and their guilt determined by magic and Skill and <emw. No one is above thew, and no one beneath it. The Raskghar will be imprisonedand those responsible for their heinous crimes will be executed by the end of the week. The rest will be prisoners of Liscor and Pass until their fate is determined.

 Faces turned back to Erin. The [Innkeeper] exhaled. Numbtongue let her lean against him. And the crowds objectionsstill presentwere subdued.

 They were going to die. And the sapphire eye of the [Grand Strategist] held little mercy in his own right.

 Some live, some die. But they do die.

 The Hobgoblin remarked to Erin. She nodded without saying a word. Numbtongue watched as Chaldion ordered the first mobile cells to be brought on Pass side of the magic door. Theyd load the Raskghar straight into them.

 Why did you work so hard to do it this way? Easier to just not care.

 The young woman looked up at the Goblin. And then sideways. The Gentlemen Callers heard her reply.

 So I could live with myself. Chaldion promised to give the children a chance.

 Wilovan and Ratici stirred. They looked at Erin. Then, slowly, the Gentlemen Callers put their hats back on their heads. They tipped them to Erin and bowed.

 It doesnt seem that arduous now, does it, Ratici?

 No indeed, Wilovan. Not if you meet the right sorts. Well done, Miss Solstice.

 She didnt nod or shake her head. She just hugged Numbtongue. And then she went home. The fire still burned, though. The same light that had been there for the Redfangs, for Goblins and Antinium.

 It lit The Wandering Inn that night. In a littlentern Erin had made, like her sad fire. She didnt know what this ones purpose was. Mrsha had tried cutting a carrot on it, but it just made lots of little cuts and wasnt that great.

 The little white Gnoll had been staring at it for a long time. Listening to what it told her. It was Erins special me. And when she touched itit cut her not at all. It was so warm.

 Harsh, beautiful, depending on how you looked at it. The Gnoll girl curled up as she knew the Raskghar were gone. In the [Garden of Sanctuary], she sat on the hillmostly empty now the crisis had passed.

 The delegation remained. The Raskghar were still out there, but secured in Pass prisons. Erin was drinking and ying cards with the Gentlemen Callers and Numbtongue.

 The door to the garden opened. Mrsha heard ragged panting. A rough voice. Something ran at her and she turned

 Ryoka Griffin seized Mrsha up in her arms and hugged her. The Gnolls eyes went wide.

 A Vampire and a Couriery on the floor of the inn, covering their bruised noses. Mrsha hugged Ryoka back fiercely.

 And then everything was really alright again.

 Authors Note: Once more, I threw everything into the chapter when I wanted to take it easy. Its okay. As long as the chapter is good.

 I realizedthere are only three more, counting this one this month until my break anyways. Weird. But you toss everything into the fire and then rest.

 I hope to get Volume 3 out before the end of the month! I will let you knowIm working on it, but I do die after these chapters. Hope you enjoy!

 Todays artists are Brack, whos done some amazing art that needs to be featured! Also, pkay has a touching reunion and Wing has also done a very fitting image for the end of the chapter! Give them lots of praise! See you next time!

 Kilt Mrsha, Numbtongue on Guitar, Cooking Erin, Titan Erin, and countless more excellence by Brack!

 DeviantArt: /shurkin/gallery/

 Ko-Fi: /brack

 Fighting Erin and Touching Reuinions by pkay!

 Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi/peekay

 Ryoka, Ivolethe and Mrsha by Wing, AKA Mole!

17kNovel

Book 7: Chapter 52