Book 8: Chapter 6: RT_The Wandering Inn

Book 8: Chapter 6: RT

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 The first nation threatened by the kingdom of Ailendamus was Kaliv. The northern-most member of the Dawn Concordat upied the rocky hignds, even smaller mountains and passes leading north.

 As one of the three members of the Dawn Concordat, the alliance of Cnfer, Kaliv, and Gaiil-Drome, Kaliv was naturally the first guard in northern aggression. Cnfer, most southern, would fight foes to the east anding up from the coast. The kingdom of Gaiil-Drome, forested, home to arge half-Elf poption and the half-Elven viges was considered safest in times of war; Pheint was one of the few nations that would attack from the west.

 [Strategists] had been analyzing Ailendamus first moves long before war was actually dered. They werergely on-mark; Ailendamus had imposed a naval blockade to stifle trade and any relief goods. It wasnt a huge loss to the Dawn Concordat so long as they kept their other trade routes open, and of course, they had stockpiles of food.

 However, Ailendamus was a powerhouse in the region, thergest kingdom in all of southern Terandria and arguably one of two or three of the most powerful without exception. Thest hundred and sixty years and reign of four [Kings] had seen massive expansion and aggression.

 The fact that its Ailendamus against the Dawn Concordat is unfortunate. However, the fact remains that unless Ailendamus can secure an ess treaty to assault the Dawn Concordat by way of Cnfer, they will have to fight through Kalivs frontier. And that is not easy.

 One of the [Strategists] in Pass opined on the segment with Noass and Sir Relz on ongoing military conflicts. He correctly pointed out what would happen in the next two weeks.

 Ailendamus had begun raiding and razing the fertile londs of Kaliv. In response, the people were evacuated. Then they sent in their first army, a huge invasion force sixty thousand strong.

 Testing the Dawn Concordat, although armies of that size had destroyed entire legions in the field and multiple kingdoms. By the same tokenforces farrger had also been stopped.

 Most famous on peoples lips was aparison that was unsociable to make in this day and age: the time when the Archmage of Death, Perril Chandler, had held off an army of four kingdoms, four hundred thousand strong, in the same passes of Kaliv.

 But of course, that had been during a particrly ugly war where Kaliv had been all but beaten. If they made it to Krawlnmaks PassCnfer and Gaiil-Drome were in danger of falling because the Dawn Concordat had expended its power and failed to keep Kaliv from being overrun.

 So the first army marched. Sixty thousand, to see what Cnfer did. They headed for the low-lying cities of Kaliv, rather than try and ascend.

 If they went for Lufelt, the mountain-capital of Kaliv, the Griffin Queen would probably let them march all the way up through the treacherous mountain passes, raiding and ambushing them or copsing the mountain, and then let them try to siege huge, vertical terrain while Griffins dropped stones on their heads and the famous goat-cavalry kicked them off the face of the mountain.

 No, the first army wanted a fight. And so they marched on Memdaa border city fortified against general attack, but which the Dawn Concordat wasnt willing to lose without a struggle, especially since it would prove to be a staging ground for the other armies already on the march from the kingdom of Ailendamus.

 The global audience, watching, even cing bets, or specting as to the oue more as interested viewers than concerned peopleat least, those not of Terandriawere not privy to the debate between the three members of the Dawn Concordat. If they had been, they would have understood an argument led to the battle at Memda.

 Novakya, the Griffin Queen of Kaliv.

 Reclis of House Marquin, King of the Eternal Throne of Cnfer.

 Solen Wildheart, the Ruler of the Forests of Gaiil-Drome.

 Each one had advisors of course, but the rulers were active participants in decision-making, although each one drew on various levels of expertise.

 Novakya wanted the battle, refusing to let Memda be taken. Solen was of the opinion that it should only be garrisoned by a token force that would fall back and deny the city afterwards, copsing walls, poisoning wells.

 Reclis du Marquin was the most cautious and would have given up the city in favor of more advantageous battlefields. HoweverNovakyasnds were in danger, and after some debate, all three monarchs agreed to make it a battle to test Ailendamus, as well as the reverse.

 Thus, the Dawn Concordat met the Ailendamus force with seventy thousand of their own forces, drawing most heavily upon Kalivs standing armies, but supplementing them with conscripts from Cnfer. Gaiil-Drome supplied their [Woond Rangers], half-Elven soldiery, as well as some of their [Forest Knights], but in fewer numbers; they contributed twelve thousand dedicated [Archers] as their main focus.

 Cnfer sent many levied, newly-minted [Soldiers] or [Militia], to the tune of nearly twenty thousand, led by one of their lesser [Generals]. If that seemed paltrypared to the four hundred Griffins and armored foot in the thousands that Kaliv added to the low-level soldieryCnfersrgest contribution was symbolic and meant to be one of the striking hammers against Ailendamus.

 They sent a thousand Thronebearers, the royal [Knights] of Cnfer into battle. Thergest Knight Order of the three nations would go up against the [Knights] of Ailendamus. The Order of the Thirsting Veil, the Order of the Hydra, and the Order of DrellDrell Knights, as they were colloquially known.

 To a student of knight-orders, Ailendamus possessing three spoke to the size of the kingdom. The Order of the Thirsting Veil was smallest, possessing deadly poisons often derided as ignoble by some knight orders. The Order of Drell wasrger, but both were still smaller than the Order of the Hydrabined.

 In briefthe Order of Drell had been founded due to Ailendamus wends. Simr but different to other marsnd Kingdoms like Desonis. They specialized in aquatic warfare and could actually fight underwater.

 The Order of the Hydra was plentiful, unmounted, favoring foot-knights who were drawn frommon stock almost to the exclusion of nobility. They were shock troops, who used warhammers and broke the lines of enemy heavy infantry.

 The engagement between both armies began with both height and the local city favoring the Dawn Concordat, as well as a slight numbers advantage. Gaiil-Dromes famous [Archers] were ready to harry the opposition whilst Kalivs Griffins secured the skies and dropped projectiles as well as dove to assault the enemy. The Thronebearers would take to the field in the center, and be supplemented by nk charges by the other [Knights] and ram-cavalry.

 However, Ailendamus had also prepared for their foes uniquepositions. They had brought the famousnce-arrows of Ailendamus, which were part of the kingdoms sigil.

 Massive, enchanted bolts which half-Giants had once strung from bows and fired at opponents. They were said to have killed Dragons and pulverized walls. These days, few half-Giants were in service even to Ailendamus, so they were mounted on Greatbows that were held by teams of archer-specialists.

 Not ballistae, per se. Both sides fielded siege equipment, but neither had dedicated [Engineers] in their kingdoms, so Ailendamus possessed enchanted catapultsnot the infamous Drake trebuchet. The Greatbows were closer to twin bows mounted vertically rather than horizontally in an x-pattern; they required enchantments to fire the huge arrows.

 As the battle began Ailendamus proved to have the superior range even to Gaiil-Dromes [Archers]. The heavynce-arrows threatened and unnerved the Dawn Concordats army as theynded, sowing chaos and reminding everyone of a simr battle between the King of Destruction and the House of Minos. They even killed two Griffins before they could harass Ailendamus forces, although that was orded a lucky shot, even with Skills.

 Like the King of Destructions dilemma, the presiding [General], Lord-Commander Metris of Cnfer, elected to charge the enemy rather than attempt to dismantle the Greatbows first. He had seen that Ailendamus had brought far fewer [Knights] than the Dawn Concordat, and their [Soldiers]while part of their standing armieswere superior in equipment and level to the levies, and considered that the Thronebearers and the varied forces would break their lines.

 He charged,mitting the Thronebearers to the first charge after the infantry shed.

 -

 There were good [Knights] and bad [Knights]. It would surprise no one to learn that not all [Knights], or knight-orders were equal. Yes, there were exceptional individuals in each order, but you could still rank them as a whole.

 The Thronebearers of Cnfer were a political knighthood order. Suited to speaking poetry and attending balls as much as purebat. They were not a weak order per se.

 They did well against Ailendamus [Soldiers]. You could even say that one Thronebearer was worthwhat, two and a half ordinary Ailendamus [Soldiers]?

 But there was the rub. [Knights] were always in short supply, at least, where wars were concerned. They could hack apart weaker foes with their often-enchanted armor and Skills, not to mention devastatingnce-charges on horseback.

 The Knights of the Petal under Lady Bethal Walchas, for instance, numbered less than two hundred and were a deadly fighting force even in small groups because they were untouchable against ordinary foes without means of breaking their expensive, enchanted armor.

 The Thronebearers were arguably less elite than the Knights of the Petal. They still were a powerful force. But the problem was, to Knight-Commander Calirn of the Order of Seasons, as he watched the news report, simple.

 Ailendamus [Soldiers] knew war. They were an active fighting force rather than the Thronebearers, who did not routinely engage in huge battles. The [Knights] kept themselves sharp, but the first army had steel without exception. Enchanted weapons among their [Sergeants] and officers. The Thronebearers had the advantage on the charge. But they began to take casualties and failed to break the lines of Ailendamus army.

 The Dawn Concordat prized [Knights] more than themon levied-[Soldiers]. Or at least, the Cnfer [General] did. He pulled the Thronebearers back and tried to win with infantry alone.

 In the end, it wasnt a rout. Nor was it, in fact, a defeat. Ailendamus army retreated after three hours of fighting. They lost half their Greatbows to Griffin-strikes, and their army took nearly twelve thousand casualties.

 The problem was, to Calirn, that Cnfer had taken nearly twenty thousandand if you were counting valuable assets lost, theyd lost forty plus Griffins, at least two hundred Thronebearers, and a number of their other high-level forces.

 Ailendamus never intended to take the city. They intended to test the Dawn Concordats resolve and see how their armies faced up.

 The dry voice came from the left. Knight-Commander Calirn, head of the Order of Seasons, Pheints Knight Order and one of the strongest in Terandria, turned to one of the other three leaders gathered here.

 The result, Fall Sentinel?

 He led the Season of Fall. He was both [Mage] and [Knight]. The man had white in his hair, but he could still tilteven if the Fall Knights ran towards academic.

 They could do this a dozen times and they will, if the Dawn Concordat is unwise enough to take such battles. Those are rank-and-file [Soldiers] they will trade for Thronebearers and Griffins.

 True enough.

 Calirn bit off. He saw the Springs Wardenyoungest of those here by far, and the only woman in the roomand the Summers Champion, both look ufortable. They clearly didnt like the Dawn Concordats odds already.

 The Winters Watcher was not present, often keeping his own council or watching their borders. But the Summers Champion clenched his fist.

 And we will not be taking part, Knight-Commander?

 Not yet. Pheint is undecided and we cannot drag in our kingdom by ourselves, Summers Champion.

 Calirn sighed. The man glowered; like many Summer Knights, the Summers Champion embodied passion. It was not always a good thing and he often shed with the [Winter Knight]s attitudes.

 Calirn. They cannot stand alone! We are the Order of Seasons! If we enter the fray, Pheint is not beholden to answer for us! We are connected, but separate.

 That was true. But Calirn just folded his arms.

 Greysten, you know as well as I that Ailendamus will not ept that excuse. We watch.

 What he left unspoken was simply that he wasnt sure if the Order of Seasons should fight. BecauseAilendamus might go after Pheint next.

 Because they might lose. He knew the others knew it too. Calirn shook his head.

 -

 That was the first battle of the war. There were more.

 Two more battles had taken ce since then. Ailendamus sent a farrger force supplemented by their war beastsArmored Graento take the city. This time, the Dawn Concordat tried to make it a siege battle. The city fell too quickly to the Lancearrows; once the gates were open, the huge, thick, plodding beasts with six legs and insanely tough hide augmented by armor rampaged through the gates. And Ailendamus artillery meant that Griffins could not harry them.

 Moreover, Ailendamus had the advantage in [Mages] as well. They fielded numerous [Mages] who cast [Poison Cloud] despite the Dawn Concordats objections to the use of the spell in war, as well as conventional spells like [Fireball].

 Thereafter, the [Mage Marshall] in charge of this wing of offensives led her forces towards the second, more populous city of Treql, while more armies began to advance across Kaliv.

 There, they suffered the first defeat of this war, and a surprising oue that Knight-Commander Calirn witnessed live via scrying orb with the rest of the world.

 The [Mage Marshall] had been leading a second battle where the Dawn Concordat tried to hold the walls, knowing that her force of ny thousand would sweep them if they couldnt choke the enemy. The Kaliv-main force was tough and entrenched, but the [Mage Marshall] had been throwing poisonous gas clouds, spells at the Griffins who normally dropped stones and other projectiles and decimated armies trying to siege the enemy.

 She would have broken them, Calirn was sure. But that was when the Griffin Prince of Kaliv and the disgraced wing that were half-ouws, half-vigntes entered the fray.

 The Griffin Prince. Stripped of his name, stripped of his right to seed Novakya. Cursed, some said, by one of Terandrias monsters. He had formed a wing of [Griffin Riders] out of former [Bandits], [Murderers], and other dregs of society, giving them onest chance to fight for honor.

 They were not tolerated by Kalivbut they were not hunted either. They were in a grey zone where Kaliv usually pretended they did not exist.

 Calirn had heard stories about the immortal Griffin Prince and the tragedy aroundher. The Spider. But he had not realized the true nature and power of the young mans curse until today.

 The Griffin Prince flew over the battlefield at a height above even thencearrows. Spells and long-range shots tried to strike him, but his wing flew close-cover, deflecting or taking the shots meant for his Royal Griffin. They dropped stones, but those were blocked by barrier spells. What the [Mage Marshall] had never considered was that they would drop the Griffin Prince himself.

 He fell among the stones, unnoticed at first. Surely the young man should have been sttered by the impact on the mage-barriers, or just disintegrated. But somehowhe survived.

 Hended among themand of Ailendamus forces. Calirn saw the [Mage Marshall] st him with a spray of poisonthen ance of magic through his chest. He staggeredbrought up his axe

 And it bounced off her barrier-charm. He was diced into pieces in a second by her personal guard.

 It didnt kill him.

 The second strike didnt kill the [Mage Marshall] as, disbelieving, she saw him re-knit. But the third slew her, even as her guard tried to hack the young man apart.

 The bewildered army saw the fighting in themand. It took thirty minutesbut the entiremand began to flee as the Griffin Prince ughtered the entire retinue defending the point. He destroyed three of the Greatbows before his wing dove to retrieve him; a recement leader was attempting to capture, rather than kill him.

 The Griffin Princes mad heroics inspired Kalivs forces. They sallied as, leaderless, Ailendamus forces lost morale. The Wing of Shame, the Griffin Princes retinue, took the battle to one nk, destroying Greatbows.

 Ailendamus army didnt even manage to retreat. Tens of thousands of [Soldiers] surrendered in the first upset of the war.

 A brave boy. Calirn still couldnt believe the dread magic that had let him survive countless deaths, however. He knew the power of the Stitch Witch, the Temptress, the Spider, Bvierr.

 Even so. Ailendamus assault was foiled as the [Generals] no doubt took precautions against such a strike again. But the Griffin Prince used his deathlessness like a weapon without peer. He attacked raiding parties by himself, challenging groups as many as twenty strong and killing themnot by superior force of arms, but by an inability to die.

 His only weakness was being captured, but the canny [Prince] had long-since learned how to pick his battles. His Wing of Shame would haunt Ailendamus in every major battle toe.

 -

 Anyways, that was the scene. If you didnt care about the war, or didnt care for historical battles, it was probably all boring nonsense.

 Knight-Commander Calirn paid attention because the Dawn Concordat were right next to Pheint and he had no love for Ailendamus. But life moved on.

 The Singer of Terandria, whom he had once seen, was putting out songs about the war. Desonis had a minor scandal as one of their Earls returned and was stripped of some of hisnd for insulting their Queen to her face.

 A party in Nomaudrel had gone really wrong, and sixteen servants were dead. The hostess, a young [Duchesss], might actually be stripped of her title orndsthe nobility objected to such stringent measures, but the crown, mindful of the reaction of themonfolk

 So it went. This was Terandria! Politics and the Hundred Families and Human kingdoms were not all one thing. The news reported on Ailendamus because it was the big war of the moment, along with the one in Chandrar with the King of Destruction.

 However, only a few other parties had gotten dragged into the mix. There had been one incident with a force of [Knights] belonging to the Order of Seasons being captured at sea.

 Calirn had been furious about that. But Ailendamus had promised to ransom them, iming they had refused to surrender at first during the blockade. And againit wasnt the kind of thing that justified taking the Order of Seasons to war.

 What had made the Knight-Commander smile was that the [Knights] escaped, even apparently managing to down a famous [General] along the way! A bad look for Ailendamus, especially since the [Knights] swore under truth spell that they had refused to heed the codes of honor and war. Ailendamus crown promised to investigate

 Small potatoes? Satisfying potatoes. Calirn had especially wanted to greet the [Knights] after their long journey home, because they had ridden to battle with Ser Raim andwell, failed to see the Stitch Witch dead. But all things being equal, he would not have counted it as a momentous asion.

 Except that they brought a friend. A fellow [Knight], hailing from Izril.

 The Goblin yer. OrSer Solstice.

 And he was a Goblin.

 -

 The return of the group of Spring and Summer Knights to the Order of Seasons was a cause for celebration. The gates were thrown open as they were spotted, and they were weed for food, respite, and thepany of their brothers and sisters after so long!

 Of course, they had been spotted long before they arrived at the vast, sprawling keep that was the headquarters of the Order of Seasons, made out of an old half-Elven fortress from the time of their empires.

 Rabbiteater was impressed by the guard they kept on the Order of Seasonsnd. The group had told them they wereing, but even so, they hadnt gone more than ten minutes past what Talia had imed was the border point when he appeared.

 The Winters Watcher.

 Ser Markus bowed, gauntleted fist over his heart. The others did the same. Spring Knights and Summer Knights, bowing slightly to the figure standing on the hilltop.

 It had begun snowing; their clue he was here. Even in the summer. The figure regarded them.

 Winters Watcher! We bring a fellow [Knight] of Izril who has fought and slept by our sides! We vouch for his honor and strength of arms!

 Ser Markus had bellowed it up at the figure, whose armor looked closer to frozen ice than anything else. The figure had inclined a huge mane of pale white hair and turned. His armor had been trimmed with thick fur, and he had carried a single enchanted axe with a blue glow to the edge, and a shield with ancient sigiry in the other.

 Who that?

 Rabbiteater had pointed. Ser Markus had exined.

 The Winters Watcher, Ser Solstice. One of the four leaders of the Order of Seasons, under the Knight-Commander himself. He is a solitary figure; much as the Order of Winter are. They do not seekpany, but fight alone, or in small groups if they must.

 Ah. And they are the best ones?

 Markus hesitated. Talia tossed her head and looked back. She was a Summer Knight, he, a Spring Knight. She was his senior, and replied in a stiff voice.

 Not as a rule, Ser Solstice. They aremore experienced by andrge, that is true, but great [Knights] exist in every order! They are the fewest, however; [Knights] turn to their Season as they age. Sometimes. It is not a rule. Some stay in their season regardless of their age.

 Rabbiteater had read between her words. He distilled her speech and Ser Markus following exnation into a far simpler one.

 Old, grumpy veterans. Like a bunch of veteran Redfang Hobs or even regr Goblins. Scarred, maybe not as quick or energetic as newly-minted Redfangs, but the ones who took you to pieces the instant you dropped your guard.

 He was alone, though.

 He pointed out to Ser Markus as they continued the rest of their short journey. Ser Markus nodded.

 He is sworn to protect our headquarters, Ser Solstice. He returnsyou may see him in the keep, but he often watches the border, even if he knows we areing.

 Right. But he was alone.

 The Spring Knight tilted his head until he realized what Rabbiteater meant.

 Ahdo not worry, Ser Solstice. If arger force wereing, he would raise the rm. But he would slow any foe who arrived, at the very least!

 By himself?

 The other [Knights] nodded, as if a single person charging into a fight wasnt stupid.

 The Winters Watcher is a superior fighter, Ser Solstice. He could stop countless foes by himself. The heads of each season sometimes duel, and he wins more than any of the other threeexcept for perhaps the Springs Warden. But she is the best duelist by far.

 Mm. And the other two? The

 Summers Champion. Just as good inbat as the Winters Watch and Springs Warden!

 Markus raised his voice for Talia and the other two Summer Knights. He confided in Rabbiteater.

 More of amander, though. And the Falls Sentinel, who is, er, more academic. But superior with a de even so! You may meet all of them. The Knight-Commander as well. I thinkthey will be interested in meeting you.

 He gave Rabbiteater a sidelong look. The Hobgoblin knew he was remembering his face.

 The face he had seen after the escape from the Bear Generals camp. YetSer Markus had not said a word of it to anyone as far as Rabbiteater could tell. Hed spent a week of sleepless nights, but no one had tried to kill him in his sleep.

 There were changes. But he rode into the Order of Seasons keep and stood as the Knight-Commander himself and two of the seasons heads greeted their [Knights].

 Ser Solstice of Izril. I thank you for your aid to my order. And I wee you into our keep. You are an honored friend, and you may avail yourself of our hospitality.

 Rabbiteater took the strong, cold grip. Even though the man had removed his gauntletRabbiteater had nothis grip still felt frosty! He eyed the greying mans face, and sensed his strength in a moment. Awkwardly, the Goblin-knight nodded his head.

 Thanks. How long?

 Talia twitched. Knight-Commander Calirn blinked. Rabbiteater wondered if it was another custom hed broken.

 But you were supposed to ask, right? In Goblin tribes, say, you couldnt justze about eating the best meat all day.

 As long as you desire, Ser Solstice.

 Years?

 Calirn blinked again and seemed to freeze up. A hugeugh erupted from the orange-haired man.

 I like this one! Yes, years, Ser Solstice! The Order of Seasons does not treat its friends lightly, and one more mouth is hardly an imposition! Although well raise our eyebrows if you do naught at all. But I swear it by the summer skies! I am the Summers Champion, Greysten. An honor to meet you.

 He was a big Human, six foot three, and physically imposing. Not the Bear Generals girth, but he had a strong, hot grip. Rabbiteater flexed his hand afterwards. What was with these [Knights]?

 Oh, right. The seasons thing. The Springs Warden was next. She was slimmer, and Rabbiteater thought she was very pretty.

 Oh, she looked like she was in her thirties despite being twenty years older, which apparently was because she was the embodiment of the spring. She had topaz-and-emerald hair, shining bright.

 But that wasnt what made her pretty. It was the huge scar running down her cheek and across her neck, and the long, threaded scar down her arm.

 That was the kind of scar you got in battle that even a healing potion didnt heal right. Rabbiteater admired her at once; the other two leaders didnt have as obvious battle marks. He got the sense she could stab him through the visor before he could strike her.

 Dead sexy, as Redfangs reckoned such things.

 Dame Kallinad spoke highly of you in her [Messages], Ser Solstice. Dont worry; we wont ask you to remove your armor. And Ailendamus will pay for its breach in conduct.

 Rabbiteater nced at Talia. She looked a tad bit ufortable as she bowed to the Summers Champion and then Calirn.

 Knight-Commander, we regret we were so dyed in returning. I trust Ser Raims remains arrived safely?

 They did, and have been buried with his beloved as he wished. I regret the passing of our brethren. But you acted as a true [Knight], Dame Kallinad. We will not soon forget the Witchs existence.

 She nodded. Rabbiteater had no idea what that was about, but soon he was being shown to his quarters.

 We have guest quarters, Ser Solstice. You will stay heretomorrow, I shall show you around the keep, but we will arrange food brought to you.

 Ser Markus showed him to the lovely rooms. They might be more spartan than some, but to a Goblin, they were spacious, the bed padded, and plenty of luxury for a guest of [Knights]! Rabbiteater nodded, inspecting the ce for bolt holes and traps.

 He saw the man hover for a second. Awkwardly, Ser Markus cleared his throat.

 Ser Solstice. Aboutyour identity.

 Rabbiteater looked up sharply. The Spring Knight hesitated. He put his hand on the door.

 I will tell no one, Ser Solstice. You have my word. I saw a [Knight] that day, and that has never changed. I would, however, be interested in speaking with you further, if I may.

 The Goblins heart pounded in his chest. Buthe slowly nodded.

 Yes. We cando that.

 Have an adventure. Her words still rang in his head, even if the power had faded even as they fled the camp. He tried to smile. And Ser Markus did.

 I will return after informing the kitchen staff of your circumstances, Solstice. Andfind a way to let you bathe. Perhaps a bath, if we carry it from the wellsexcuse me.

 He nodded and left. Rabbiteater sat there for a second.

 Am I in danger?

 Well, he had been the moment he left Izril. But he wantedto believe in these crazy Humans and their weird codes of conduct. He liked Markus. He wondered what Talia thought; they hadnt spoken as much. But now theyd arrived andhe sat back on the bed.

 He felt good.

 -

 The Springs Warden was in her rooms, meditating before dinner, as was her wont. She heard a knock, told the person to enter.

 It was a female Spring Knight, one of the ones who had gone to Ser Raims aid.

 WardenI am sorry if I am disturbing you, butI have something I must say. I feel the need to, even if it conflicts with honor and duty.

 The Springs Warden turned. She was used to such intrusions; her Season was made up of more [Knights] and more junior ones than any other Season.

 Come in, Dame Meisa. Speak freely and I will give you what wisdom I have.

 Its about Ser Solstice, thethe [Knight] that came with us.

 The young [Knight] nervously sat down on the seat across from the Springs Warden. The woman raised her eyebrow.

 Ah. You must have seen a hint as to whom he was.

 How did you?

 It was obvious. The Springs Warden shook her head. Her youthful features made people forget her age. And besideswhat else could it be? Perhaps somethingbut it was most likely his identity.

 She hoped he was not some well-known murderer. A member of the nobility or adventurer? Easier to bear. He had seemed forthright and honest, if somewhat unused to formalities when she had met him.

 Dame Meisa, is this something I need hear? I would respect his vows under most circumstances. I trust your judgment.

 The young woman hesitated. She rested her hands on her knees, and then met the Spring Wardens gaze.

 At the risk ofpromising my honor, Warden, I believe it so. Ser Solstice is nothe ishes a Goblin.

 The Springs Warden blinked.

 -

 It took about twelve minutes for someone to leak Ser Solstices secret of honor between [Knights]. So much for the honor-bound vow of chivalry.

 And it wasnt even the Springs Warden who learned of Rabbiteaters secret first. In fact, Dame Meisa had wavered for a good three hours before approaching her.

 The person whod requested an audience and received it minutes after arriving sat in front of Knight-Commander Calirn. It had taken three hours for the entire story and all his questions. Atst, he sat back.

 And you do not know how a Hobgoblin came into the armor or ss he seems to possess KnightTalia?

 The young woman shook her head slowly.

 No, Knight-Commander Calirn, I do not.

 The Knight-Commanders rooms were cold. Not because he leaned that far into his season, but because his aura leaked, even with his mastery of it. Especially when he slept.

 That meant he kept the room dry, even though winter static was unpleasant. But it beat moisture creating frost on clothing or wood and then turning to wetness when he left and creating mildew.

 Simrly, Calirn tended to embrace his season. For instance, he had the cold-blooming cacti he tended to on a windowsill, which thrived in snowy conditions.

 He was also fond of books, and thus had a warded bookcase that prevented frost from damaging it. Some of the ornaments were not for him; he possessed thick, furred nkets made of Wilwolf fur from the north. They were for his guests.

 Of course, Summer Knights and younger visitors liked to pretend the cold didnt affect them. However, only one of the top members of the order could really sit in the cold without feeling it. Talia was already beginning to shiver. She tried to establish her aura, but this ce was Knight-Commander Calirns and only sheer stubbornness kept her from using the furs.

 He indicated them and she reluctantly took one. The Knight-Commander sat there, and then stood. He did not pace, but rather, held still.

 Winter was like that. Spring was action and life and youth. Calirn had learned to stand as still as a snowman in a blizzard. His order was made of lone wolves, who had to sometimes ambush foesalthough the ethics of that were always under debate.

 While he thought, he held still, regarding the books on his shelves. Among them was a history of major cataclysms that had struck Terandria, a must-read for someone who protected his region and crusaded against threats like that.

 Goblin Kings featured in the book, four times. And that was the quantifiable past the [Historian] had been able to find; time erased so much, as did the fall of vast empires. Even now, a treasure worth as much as any relic was a history book magically preserved tens of thousands of years after it had been written.

 He was of two minds about this news. Ser Solstice, a Hobgoblin in disguise? The first was uncertainty. The dangers of having amonsteror a monstrous race at the least among Terandrians was not lost on him. However. The second part of him argued with even that sentiment.

 To my understanding, my instincts, and what I have heard, Dame Talia Kallinad, that Hobgoblin is a [Knight]. Is that so?

 Talia hesitated.

 I believe so, Knight-Commander. A basic [Appraisal] spell could tell the truth of it.

 Calirn did not need one. He was a high-level [Knight] and he recognized his ss. Hed sensed some subtleties of difference with Ser Solstice, but put it down to the cultural differences between continents and how their [Knights] were trained and raised.

 He nodded.

 But he is a [Knight].

 And a Goblin.

 Dame Talia sat there, clearly unhappy. Shed put the fur nket over herself, but she looked deeply troubled. Calirn nodded. He sat back down and looked at her.

 Then, Dame Talia. Why did you see fit to reveal his nature to me? A [Knight]s vow of secrecy you swore to uphold is a matter of honor.

 He met her gaze with his cool, frosty eyes. She paledthen flushed suddenly. The air warmed around her.

 Knight-Commander! I would have kept his secret at any cost! But after the battle with the Bear-General

 Whom he singlehandedly beat in a duel, to allow you and the others to escape.

 Talia hesitated.

 but I saw his face. Knight-Commander, I respect the honor of my ss and fellow [Knights]! But he is a Goblin.

 And that was the heart of it. Talia sat there as Calirn leaned back.

 She felt betrayed. Betrayed, by the truth of Ser Solstice, which had impelled her toe here. The Knight-Commanders disapproval rankled at her.

 If he had been a Gnoll, a disgraced Drakeany number of things, she would have kept that secret. But a Goblin? She had admired Ser Solstice. Now?

 She didnt know what to think. She had fought Goblins. Who was Ser Solstice? A strange Goblin, pretending to be a [Knight]? An agent in disguise?

 She had realized she had never seen the Goblin yer actually y all the tribes hed imed to have eradicated, only a handful in battle. Had he helped them escape and lied? Or if notwas he a traitor to his own species?

 She took a deep breath.

 I believe Ser Solstice was untruthful with us, Knight-Commander. And the danger hemight present leads me to believe my duty to the Order and my homnd supersedes or calls into question the knightly-vows of chivalry I have made.

 A fair answer.

 He saw her reasoning. The Knight-Commander sat there, thinking it over. Then he nodded.

 You are dismissed, Dame Talia. I will investigate the matter and inform you of my conclusions, if need be.

 Knight-Commander?

 She stood, a bit uneasily. But if she had expected a fast decision, she had forgotten that the Knight-Commander, who could be of any season, was Calirn. Unlike his predecessors, he was winter. And winter was a time to contemte, not move in haste. Calirn sighed.

 You are dismissed, Dame Talia.

 He rose. It was a troubling issue. But not one he would instantly move onsuch as throwing Ser Solstice into chains, or setting a guard. If he had travelled with the [Knights] so long, he was not an immediate threat. He might be a spy, but he would be a fool to try to attack anyone in the Order of Seasons keep.

 Ser Calirn went to consult with the Falls Sentinel, even though that meant spreading more word of Ser Solstices identity.

 Rabbiteater had dinner.

 -

 Ser Markus conceived a great enmity for Dame Talia Kallinad over supper on the first night of their return from their questing abroad.

 He had admired Dame Taliaif vaguely, as one of the members of the Season of Summer, the second order that Spring Knights usually aspired toor the Season of Fall if their tastes ran more to academia or studying.

 She, as a member of the prestigious Kallinad family of Pheint, had never seemed overly arrogant, and she exemplified the desire to crusade and fight for valor and honor. So he had been pleased to fight beside her as they went to Ser Raims aid, even though it might mean their deaths, without enchanted weapons, fighting the great Spider of Terandria.

 Even after their defeat, she had essentially led them back home, and he had trusted her implicitly. Nothing until now could have shaken his faith in a fellow member of the Order of Seasons.

 Today, Ser Markus thought Dame Talia had managed to reverse his opinion of her. He did not know of her conversation with Knight-Commander Calirn, of course. But he saw a dinner and her actions there.

 Before that, she had be more distant as Ser Solstices identity had been revealed. The five [Knights], including Ser Markus, had been shocked. But he had openly dered Ser Solstice a [Knight] and after a quick debate, they had decided his secret was safe.

 Talia had not gainsaid that decision, but she had stopped riding next to Ser Solstice and talking as openly. One could hardly miss that gap in sociability.

 But tonight?

 Ser Solstice had supped alone since he did not remove his helmet. But he could still drink through a straw, and talk, and seemed to enjoy it. He had joined Ser Markus and the other [Knights] to eat in the main mess hall of the keep.

 All seasons ate there, and guests as well. [Knights] talked, many at their leisure, mostly with friends or their seasons, but they intermingled without real rivalry in most cases. Each season was proud, but they were not at odds.

 There were a handful of guests, too. Aspiring [Squires] who got to see what life here was like. Noble guests, or people, usually of Pheint,e to do business or petition the order.

 Fellow [Knights] too. The Order of Seasons tried to keep strong rtionships with their fellow orders, who they might well fight beside.

 So Ser Solstice was not the attraction of the hour. But he was certainly noticeable. Even [Knights] gossiped and the mysterious knight of Izril, who refused to take off his helmet and had bested a [General] in one-on-onebat was of note. Not to mention his Goblin-ying prowess.

 This was what Ser Markus saw. Ser Solstice entered the banquet hall and found Dame Talia standing and talking with some of the Summer Knights. The Goblin [Knight] approached. Talia saw himing and excused herself. She moved away to get some food.

 Ser Solstice. We may collect whatever you would like over there.

 Markus had shown him the food prepared by [Cooks], much like a cafeteria, albeit without the need for payment. Ser Solstice had gotten a drink of goats milk. He looked for Talia. She was sitting with more [Knights] of the Spring. He walked over.

 She stood up and moved away. She did not look at himbut it was no coincidence. Ser Markus narrowed his eyes as some of theirpany, most, bewildered, stopped and watched.

 Dame Meisa, Ser Lloyd, and Ser Vitin all watched with varying expressions on their face. Talia moved away with her tray. Ser Solstice followed.

 Talia.

 Excuse meSer Solstice.

 She walked away again, and again. Ser Markus saw the armored [Knight] stop and look after her. He had no expression behind the visor, but Ser Markus saw his head turn after Talia.

 Confusion became hurt as understanding bloomed. The Goblin yer stood there, looking after the Summer Knight as she went over to some of the Fall Knights who looked around, surprised to see her.

 The intery was not missed on the [Knights] who had been observing Ser Solstice. Now, one of the Knights of Spring, Ser Medul, turned to Ser Markus from where he sat. He was in histe thirties, very old by the Spring Knight standards. But he was youthful, energetic, one of those sorts of people who never ran out of energy until they slept. He belonged to the Spring, whilst Ser Markus might eventually change seasons.

 I do not know this Ser Solstice, Markus. I heard of him just as you returned from Izril. But that is a troubling sight. Has Dame Talia lost all decency, or has somethinge up? Perhaps he romantically petitioned her? If so, she should refuse him outright, rather than act that way.

 He nodded at Talia and the silent Goblin [Knight], Markus chewed on his lip as the other [Knights] looked at each other.

 I cannot say fully, Ser Medul. It goes to a vow of secrecy between Ser Solstice and those of us who inadvertently witnessed the truth of it.

 Ah.

 The other [Knights] who had not seen Ser Solstice nced at Markus, Meisa, Lloyd, and Vitin. Lloyd bit his lip and nodded. Vitin was troubled, as was Meisa, who looked ufortable.

 Ser Medul and some of the other Spring Knights sitting there frowned. The senior [Knight] nodded to Markus after a moment.

 Then I will not inquire since it is a matter of honor. Howeverwithout knowing the why of it, I still find Dame Talias actions to be uncouth at the least.

 With that, he stood and called out across the hall.

 Excuse me, Ser Solstice of Izril! Come sit with us, tonight! The Season of Spring would wee you among us!

 The Goblin yers head turned. He walked over, and sat. Ser Markus tried to smile, but the Goblins expression was unreadable.

 Hi.

 But he sounded depressed. Ser Medul introduced himself, reaching out to shake his hand.

 I am Medul of House Medoitof Pheint. Shall I call you Ser Solstice or by any other name?

 Solstice is fine. Lots of [Knights] here.

 It was ament that made Ser Medul smile. Small talk, without understanding the idea of it. It made sense to Ser Markus now he knew

 Dame Talia might beshe isI cannot make excuses for her, Ser Solstice.

 He spoke atst, ufortably, having yet to touch his dinner. The Goblins head slowly turned.

 Was there a sh of crimson behind the visor? He looked at Markus, as the other [Knights] watched him while eating. Markus had no idea what he was thinking, but atst, the armored head nodded slowly.

 She thinks one way. This is how it is. That is what happened.

 He slowly took a sip from his drink with the wooden straw. Markus exhaled. It was sofatalistic a statement. It made him endlessly curious as to

 Curiosity belonged to spring and fall, both seasons of great change. Ser Medul nced at Ser Solstice and eventually nodded.

 Let us put aside dour thoughts tonight. Ser Solstice, I hear you are responsible for freeing mypanions from the clutches of Ailendamus! I propose a toast to your valorand tales of how you bested the Bear of Ailendamus!

 He rose. The Spring Knights, always fast to toast, with alcohol or not, all jumped to their feet. Rabbiteater blinked around as the mood suddenly turned energetic.

 Yes, are you a specialist in unarmedbat? I saw you beat the Bear with your bare hands! And I would have sworn he could have thrown down with the best of our Order barehanded, armor or not!

 One of the Spring Knights who had not seen his face leaned in. Rabbiteater shrugged.

 I had help. Got lucky.

 Tell us the entirety of it, then. From start to finish. Ser Markus? We heard you were at sea, but was it true you ran afoul of the blockade and refused to surrender?

 Hardly, Dame Thris! There we were, sailing for Pheint when Ailendamus fleet found us and demanded our surrender! We debated over fighting when they imed we would be sunk if we refused, but we did little more than draw our swords. For that, they demanded we surrender and imed it was an act of aggression

 Stories. On the first night, Rabbiteater met the Season of Spring. They clustered around him. Eating, talkingand not once did they ask him to remove his helmet. They wanted to know, but they caught themselves when asking about his past.

 They were curious, but they had vows. And they stood together, a group of warriors bound by purpose. It reminded him of his tribe. His family.

 He wished they could have had a keep of stone and magic, and wonderful weapons and food you didnt have to ration.

 His heart hurt when he thought of Talia.

 -

 A Goblin Knight? That is a thing of stories, Knight-Commander Calirn.

 The Falls Sentinel was an older [Knight]. Slimmer, and, like his Season, less martial than the other Seasons. Howeverhe used a dueling sword with great acim, and a buckler in his off-hand. And his spellcasting rivaled some senior [Mages].

 More than that, though, he was a historian. The Falls Sentinel stood against more than just aggression in the present; he remembered past threats.

 Calirn hade to him with Talias secret, despite reservations. And it was the Falls Sentinel who was more troubled than Calirn.

 Then you believe the Goblin is a threat? A spy?

 Spy? Agent? Enemy of his kind? That is not the point, Knight-Commander. History is a blunt teacher. And it teaches us that Goblins who walk among other species often be great leaders of their kind. There have been Goblin Knights before.

 Really?

 The Falls Sentinel was plumbing through his personal archive. He shook his head.

 I will have to find the texts. They are buried in our library, no doubt. I will have some of my Season begin the search tomorrow.

 Subtly, Falls Sentinel.

 The mans name was Venoriat, but the Order tended to use their titles. To remind them they were representatives before friends, who could be biased, at least on business like this. Venoriat nodded.

 Of course. But I caution you, Knight-Commander. The Goblin may be a [Knight], in which case I am bound to believe he is honorable enough to gain the ss. Buthe is a Goblin.

 Meaning?

 The Falls Sentinel sighed.

 Meaning that Goblins who rise to great strength be Chieftains or Goblin Lords. I recall one text[Recall Text]. Ah, yes. Perfect rity. The historical ount of the Order of Merendis states that a valiant Goblin who strove with them against dark forces who preyed on the blooded, showed them naught but honor and a willingness topromise. However. She joined the Goblin King during his rampage, which ended their Order, despite decades of strong ties. Where Goblin Kings appearor Goblin Lords, Knight-Commandereven valorous Goblins seem to turn to war. Recall that thest Goblin King was known as Vn the Kind.

 I would not forget, Falls Sentinel. I rode against him at the end.

 The Order of Seasons had been there. Even now, he remembered the Goblin King ughtering warriors. That one half-Elf had brought him down had seemed like a miracle.

 That is historys lesson. Perhaps, Knight-Commander, you should simply treat him as another species. Or a [Knight] not of this order.

 After a moment, the Falls Sentinel pped his hands. Calirn stirred.

 I think I understand, but your meaning?

 Even chivalrous [Knights] who embody honor may find themselves at odds due to politics or war. Goblins have many reasons to sh with Humanity. So, then. We understand what may happen because he is a Goblin. We do not know why he takes up armor. Either way, we acknowledge that his species is oft-opposed to ours, as a Drake [Knight] would be. I find him fascinating in any case and request permission to investigate.

 How so?

 Speak to him. Unless your will is to imprison Ser Solstice? Or execute him?

 The Falls Sentinel peered at Knight-Commander Calirn, having donned his reading spectacles. The Knight-Commander stood.

 No. Aptly put, Falls Sentinel.

 And subtly too; the man had the greatest strength in diplomacy of the four seasons. The older [Knight] nodded. He had contextualized the issue for Calirn and the answer was clear.

 I will not have the Order of Seasons imprison a [Knight], no matter the species. If Ser Solstice presents himself as undeserving of the ssI would act on it. But Dame Talias admission troubled me from the start. She is conflicted. But without that revtion, I will treat Ser Solstice like a [Knight] from Izril. I cannot ignore what I have been told, and thus he will be kept under moderate surveince. No more until I reach further conclusions.

 Well said, Knight-Commander.

 Besides which, one Goblin [Knight] was not as important as the war in Ailendamus.

 But he was interested in the Goblin [Knight]. Who could not be? He resolved to meet with himter.

 -

 If Knight-Commander Calirns deliberations had ended one way, the Springs Warden had dismissed Dame Meisa before dinner far differently.

 Dame Meisa, do you believe Ser Solstice is a [Knight]?

 The young Spring Knight had squirmed in her seat.

 Ido not know, Springs Warden. Nothing he has done has convinced me otherwise; quite the opposite.

 Then why do you tell me of his nature?

 The older woman had waited. Meisa had shaken her head.

 Everything I have been taught is to watch for the danger of Goblins, Springs Warden. I do not know what to think, so I came to tell youif only that someone knows the possible danger.

 I see. And I see your reasoning, Dame Meisa. But I rebuke you nheless.

 Springs Warden?

 The Season of Springs leader had looked at the young [Knight].

 It is right to fear a threat. It is unbing to gossip due to uncertainty, Dame Meisa. Which prompted your arrival here? Your realization of Ser Solstices danger to life and limb? Or your uncertainty of his nature?

 The young woman had colored. The Springs Warden sent her on her way.

 If you have a question of Ser Solstice? Uncertainties about him, why he is a [Knight]? Ask him yourself.

 Then she sat and meditated on the issue throughout the dinner hour. When she rose to break her fast, she was resolved.

 She said nothing, did nothing, and had a pudding. Tomorrow, she would see Ser Solstice herself. Spring was change. She let things happen.

 -

 And the results of her conversation bore out in Rabbiteaters rooms that night. Dame Meisa, looking a bit ashamed, Ser Markus, and Ser Lloyd, all of the Spring, sat and stared as Rabbiteater slowly removed his helmet.

 Ser Vitin, also of the Summer, had not joined them. Nor Talia, obviously. But Meisa had suggested it, and so they had asked Rabbiteater.

 He took off his helmet and felt odd after so long wearing it like a second skin. They blinked.

 Spring ends.

 Ser Lloyd murmured the epitaph of their order. Ser Markus nudged him.

 Ser Solstice.

 Rabbiteater. My name is Rabbiteater.

 The Hobgoblin was almost trembling as he put his helmet down. Meisa blinked.

 Rabbiteater? That is your name? Then you are?

 Rabbiteater. Solstice wasa friend. Human.

 They looked at him. The Hobgoblin stared back. After a moment, Ser Markus almostughed.

 A Human friend? Ahthat makes sense! SerRabbiteater, would you tell us more about how you came here?

 You want to know?

 The Goblin [Champion] and [Knight-Errant] was surprised they hadnt reacted more violently. He had expectedno, hoped

 Talia had done what he would have if he found a Redfang was a Human adventurer in disguise, really. Less. But he had hoped.

 Some of the hope was born again here. Ser Markus nodded.

 It is an extraordinary tale, surely.

 But you do not y Goblins. Youpretend to. Unless those ears were Goblins you slew?

 Ser Lloyd looked ufortable. Rabbiteater shook his head.

 I told them to run away. The dead GoblinsI took ears from them. I do not kill Goblins. Unless they fight me. I do not kill Humans either. Iused to. I was a Redfang.

 A what?

 They frowned. It was a long story. Rabbiteater did his best, but he was no Numbtongue with the fancy eloquence ofnguage. But hed learned to speak better and made a decent telling of it.

 They did not know of the Redfang Tribe, or the famous Garen Redfang. But they listened as he clumsily tried to tell them about growing up, being sent on a mission to kill an [Innkeeper]. Getting lost. So lost.

 And then meeting a Human in a battle in a city called Esthelm. Fighting the Goblin Lord. Losing friends. Coming to an inn, where a Human, for the second time ever, didnt see them as monsters.

 Erin Solstice.

 I have heard of that inn. Liscor. And that is where you came from?

 Yes. After the big battle.

 The siege with Lord Veltras. But the inn stands?

 Rabbiteaters heart hurt.

 Yes. She is there. But Imy brothers are gone. So I went. Cant go back. Hurts too much.

 He would go back. He had promised her. Buthave an adventure. She knew he was alive. She had told him to have one.

 Fall in love. Why didnt she tell him it was like getting kicked repeatedly in the stomach too?

 An [Innkeeper]. Raskghar. Cave Goblins. What a story. That is a proper quest, a proper adventure! You put half the Season of Spring to shame with it alone.

 Ser Markus sat back. It was interesting, the reactions of the three.

 Ser Lloyd was most wary. He kept staring at Rabbiteater and then looking away. But he listened, despite his clear misgivings.

 Meisa lookedintrigued, guilty, and interested. She had liked hearing of Erins kindness, and how it had changed the Redfang five.

 Ser Markus was simplest. Sheerly admiring. He did not seem to hold the Goblins nature against him. The reason bore out as he rose.

 I was lucky enough to know half-Elvesnot in a traditional vige, but a proper settlement that traded with my hamlet. I grew up in Gaiil-Dromethe forest nation. I always thought they were much maligned when I heard stories of themter.

 So, you are a [Champion] and became a [Knight] after meeting us?

 Lloyd looked at Rabbiteater. The Goblin shrugged.

 Yes. Armor is armor. I liked [Knights], though. They are sillybut brave.

 The Spring Knights exchanged a look. Lloyd looked half-offended, but then smiled despite himself.

 Spoken like the other seasons. But one thing I dont understand. You still didnt say how you managed to down the Bear-General. You kept saying you had help. I thought you meant a potion. But you said it was a Skill? Sent by the [Innkeeper]? Across the ocean?

 His tone was disbelieving. Rabbiteater smiled.

 Erin is Erin. Very crazy. Does strange things. She isstrange.

 Lloyd looked at Rabbiteater. Then he sat back.

 You smiled for the first time when you spoke of her, sir.

 Rabbiteater realized he was. And that made all the difference. Lloyd looked at the others, then rose.

 This is incredible. IIve fought Goblins. Killed them. No offense, Rabbiteater, but I was prepared to tell the Springs Warden, or Knight-Commander Calirn upon returning here. Ididnt, but I feel guilty at the thought. Goblins have been mine enemy the entire time.

 He looked at Rabbiteater. Meisa bit her lip and Ser Markus frowned.

 We swore an oath, Ser Lloyd!

 I know! But can you fault me for questioning, Markus?

 The man ran a hand through his hair. Rabbiteater shrugged.

 Humans kill Goblins. Goblins kill Humans.

 Yes, but you make your tribe sound sosothen why are we fighting?

 Rabbiteater shrugged again.

 No clue.

 Lloyd copsed with a sigh.

 I can see your tribethe Redfangs?they would be the worst [Bandits] in the eyes of any Humans. Goblins with a mastery of weaponry. And you say they were all trained to that level? By this Garen Redfang?

 Yes. Gold-rank adventurer.

 Are other tribes led by Goblins like that? Tell us, pray.

 Lloyd leaned in. Markus as well. Meisa listened as Rabbiteater tried to exin.

 -

 They talkedte into the night. It was surreal for both sides, and Rabbiteater sleptte into the day. But the next morning, the strangeness didnt stop.

 We return to our duties, but due to our sojourn we wont immediately be sent out, Ser Solstice. I would ask if you wanted to join us.

 What do you do all day?

 Train.

 Ser Markus smiled. Lloyd sighed and Meisa rubbed at her shoulders. Rabbiteater tilted his head back and forth.

 Cool.

 He didnt get why they found it arduous. The Order of Seasons had built their lives around being [Knights], so you did a few things as soon as you were a full [Knight]:

 -You went on quests or crusades, in groups, alone if you were senior, or in full armies, sometimes to war.

 -You patrolled or helped build or fortify areas in need. Cleared out monsters on a kind of residency for as long as four years.

 -You rested and enjoyed the Order of Seasons amenities, took breaks because you couldnt [Knight] all year without needing time off.

 -You might research, study magic, if you were a Fall Knight, or go on courtly diplomatic missions to visit other orders, attend events representing your order.

 -Or you trained your ass off day in and day out.

 That was what [Knights] not upied with the main activities did. They trained.

 Swordsmanship, spear mastery, archery, riding, joint fighting, tilting, dueling, woodcraft, climbing, sprints, swimming, stealth, marathon marchesthe Order of Seasons did specialize, but a [Knight] honed their body.

 I hear the Thronebearers exercise for two hours each day. Ive never done less than six.

 Ser Markus groused as they ran around the vast keep for a morning run. The [Knights] wore armor[Squires] did not, although they worked up to it with weights. Rabbiteater ran in full gear with a group of [Spring Knights]. Apparently, it was more than a few miles if you did the entire keep; it was sprawling.

 You run like this every day?

 Yes! At least, the Season of Spring must, to build their endurance. You neednt do this, Ser Solstice

 Ser Markus blinked as Rabbiteater jogged ahead, towards the head of the pack. Ser Markus sped up.

 Used to do this too. Carrying rocks. Lots of fun. Rxing.

 Ser Medul barked augh as he looked over his shoulder.

 You hear that, squires? That is dedication to athleticism! In honor of Ser Solstice joining uspick up the pace! None of you quits before he does!

 That turned into something of a problematic statement, since Rabbiteater did sixps; the [Squires] were let go after three. Ser Markus was panting when it was over.

 Youyou used a Skill, didnt you?

 Nope.

 Rabbiteater was sweating, but he had water, even lovely apple slices! That was a treat.

 The thing was, and which the Spring Knights learned as they went for weapons training nextRedfangs were insane.

 They loved training. Garen Redfang had turned their tribe into exercise-freaks, which Erin Solstice had more than once remarked on. Goblins of that tribe craved the rush you got from working hard then eating and flopping over to sleep. They were the kind of breed that military instructors loved.

 Another thing that impressed them was Rabbiteaters knowledge of weaponry, which again, mirrored their own.

 You can use a mberge?

 Mm. Think so.

 Halberd?

 Used it. Dont like as much.

 But you can use it. How about bow and arrow?

 Decent shot. My brother shoots better.

 Guisarme? Oh,e now. Youve never held one.

 Id like to learn.

 Rabbiteater grinned as he hefted the weird pole-weapon with the long catch. But he trained with an axe and shield and bested Ser Markus, Meisa, and three more Spring Knights in quick bouts.

 Youre good! Too quick!

 Ser Markusined after the second time Rabbiteater battered down his guard. The Goblin had levels, strength, and experience on his side. Ser Medul raised a hand.

 Will you try me, sir? No Skills?

 It was an even match. The older Spring Knight used a ssic sword-and-shieldbo and he and Rabbiteater went at it. Unlike the other Spring Knights, he didnt fall for Rabbiteater ramming him, trying to trip him up, shove him, head-buttall things that Redfangs considered fine game and which [Knights] didnt teach.

 Even so.

 Hes matched with Ser Medul, tricks or not!

 One of the [Squires] stared. Ser Medul was just as surprised; without Skills, Rabbiteater couldnt easily break down his guard, and the two were sweating and circling while hammering at each others heavy guards.

 As good as Ser Medul? The [Knight] called a halt as the Spring Knights watched, impressed, after nearly eight minutes of fighting.

 Neither one of us will get to the end, Ser Solstice. Unless you want to go there?

 Rabbiteater shrugged. He felt like Medul was a senior Hob if he were in Goblin terms, and had no desire to try and beat him just for that. Senior warriors needed to keep face and he liked the old trainer.

 You fight very well. One of the best where Ie from.

 Medulughed and flicked sweat out of his hair.

 Without Skills, I dont think Id be able to take down your guard, Solstice! Mind youwith Skills I hope Id have more of a chance. Do you practice aura-Skills at all? No? Then youre not exactly like us!

 Heughed. Rabbiteater nced at him.

 I saw the me-sword. Does Spring have theirs?

 Medul blinked.

 Dame Talias fire? And Ser Vitins shield? Of course we have our own! Ahbut you were riding with the newer members of our order. We couldnt send veterans. I would have gone, but fire was better than spring, eh?

 Markus reddened a bit as Rabbiteater nced at him. The Hobgoblin turned to Ser Medul.

 What does spring do?

 Hed seen the [Aura de] skill that Talia used, and the shield that Vitin could turn to fire. Both seared their opponents, and woe to anyone locking des up close with the [Summer Knights].

 Winter made sense too; frost. But what was spring and fall?

 For answer, Medul raised his sword.

 [Wind Sheathe]!

 His training sword became enveloped in a shimmering vortex. Rabbiteaters eyes narrowed. He saw flickersnothing concrete, but a twisting force of motes of dust or dirt in the air.

 Wind. Ser Markus raised his shield as Medul turned for a target. He flicked his sword and something hit Markus shield.

 Not super-hard, but with an impact.

 Spring takes all forms, Ser Solstice. I can be the gust, the breezeto hasten my swings or strike enemies from afar. If need be, I can draw on other elements. Such asif I were fighting a more difficult foe? [Barkguard]!

 His shield sprouted with thick bark. It looked less impressive, but he moved as if it weighed nothing at all and when Rabbiteater asked to smack it, his blow bounced right off.

 Ooh. Nice.

 Auras. Ser Medul nodded and Rabbiteater realized thest power of his aura was manifesting itself. Even the Hobgoblin was tiring a bit after the long bout and exercise all morning. He nced at Medul.

 Youre not tired.

 The Spring Knight grinned.

 Spring is youth! Energy! We can train or fight or run all dayat least, if you embody our order!

 He barked across the groaning [Knights], whod heard the speech before. Rabbiteater nodded.

 Must be great for sex.

 Ser Lloyd sprayed his drink out his mouth and nose. Ser Medul blinked, and to Rabbiteaters surprise, coughed.

 Indecorously put, Ser Solstice. But er

 He was spared from the Goblins sense of decorum by the arrival of the Springs Warden.

 Ser Solstice. I was told you were training with our order. I should like to see your ability myself, if I may?

 The Goblin turned. He saw one of the best duelists in the Order of Seasons smile politely. She held a longsword and nothing else. The Knights of the Spring stirred.

 With Skills or not?

 He sensed her confident ability as she lowered her sword, presenting an opening. Ser Medul backed up with Markus, looking very interested.

 Skills, Ser Solstice, if it is not an imposition.

 Will you use them?

 She smiled.

 If I need to. No offense to you, Ser Solstice.

 He took none. The Hobgoblin had sized up his opponent, so she surely could do the same for him. He hesitated. Then drew his sword and shed.

 She parried so fast he was surehe lifted his shield and barely missed being taken out in one go. She would have had the sword point at his neck if it werent for luck.

 He gave it another try. His swordnced outand she performed another parry, slid in so fastshe had her sword alongside his neck. If she had continued, she would have sliced his head off in one move.

 Huh.

 He breathed as she stepped back. The Springs Warden bowed.

 Ser Solstice, shall we continue?

 He nodded. He was sure, now.

 She was boosted by Skills, no doubt, even passively. But that had confirmed it for him. She was as good as Garen Redfang with the de.

 There was an art to her movements like Shorthilt hadand he copied the best demaster in the Redfang tribe, Garen himself. Rabbiteater was goodbut he was a [Champion], good at fighting. He didnt try for art.

 So he started using Skills.

 [Steelcut Sunder]! He said nothing, but the Springs Warden saw the cuting and moved her sword out of the block; hed have shed through her practice sword otherwise.

 He began moving on the attack. [Shield Ram][Long Backstep]basic Skills hed had as amon [Warrior], a bit enhanced due to his level, made her back up. She was testing him, staying on the defensive.

 She knew he had more. Rabbiteater didnt wait to use them. He only waited for her to go on the offensive to bait them outshe tapped his shield with the edge of her sword in a flick, such a fast move that it was disconcerting. In response, he swung his sword.

 [Grand sh]!

 The audience murmured. Markus blinked. That was a powerful Skill!

 But the Springs Warden was already leaping backwards. Somehow, shed known from Rabbiteaters posture it wasing. Without Skills, she moved out of range, deflecting the edge of the powerful blow.

 However, that was her conceit. She had used no Skills, so the impact twisted the sword in her grip. That was what Rabbiteater had been waiting for. In that brief moment where she thought hed used his big Skill, he used the one hed gotten at Level 30.

 [Aspect of the Champion]. Rabbiteater had gotten it and wondered what it meant. Now?

 The Springs Warden hadnded nearly ten feet back. Before she could reset her guard, he blurred.

 [Aspect of the Champion Greater Speed]. He could take [Enhanced Strength], [Greater Dexterity]

 He lunged at her in ancing strike. It was so fast Ser Markus only saw a blur go past his face. And

 Even Rabbiteater hadnt expected how fast he would go. He was still wearing his armor. And it urred to him in the fragments of time as his sword extended towards the womans chest

 It might be a training weapon, but it was still a lead-filled wooden sword with at least two hundred pounds of force and incredible velocity behind it.

 He saw the Wardens eyes widen in slow-motion. She swung her sword upas someone began to cry out.

 going to hit her

 Meisa finished speaking toote. She saw a cloud of dust. The Springs Warden reappeared, sword raised from the sweeping blow upwards.

 Rabbiteaternded on his back a second after that. He went wump, so hard onto the practice courts ground that he was without breath or thought for a good thirty seconds. Even thenhe justy there.

 Shed sent him flying. So fast and so high that he thought hed cracked his back at the very least.

 Ser Solstice, are you alright?

 Markus was first to break the circle of watchers. The Springs Warden had lowered her de. She was there first, even so.

 Are you alright, Ser Solstice? You surprised me.

 She had flicked him into the air like a bug. In that momentRabbiteater had to admit it.

 She was better than Garen Redfang. At least, in level. It was a hard admission for any Redfang, but Garen had stood as a strong Gold-rank. The Springs Warden could best him.

 Although, if it came to a real battle, Garen might have her with his enchanted de. But on the face of it, hed never seen Garen use a Skill as wide-reaching as that.

 Rabbiteater had fought Garen in that memorable battle outside of Liscor. If hed had [Aspect of the Champion], he and the four others might have actually knocked him t.

 Greydath? Still no. The Springs Warden?

 Wellthe others clustered around him. They were proffering potions, wondering if he was unconscious, or they should pour it through his visor. Ser Markus was about to offer to check on Rabbiteater in private when the Hobgoblin sat up.

 They expected him to be miffed, at the least. The Springs Warden was apologizing; she could have badly hurt him given how high shed sent him. But the knight of Izril just made a sound through his visor.

 It took them a second to realize he was chuckling. He looked at the Springs Warden.

 Got you to use a Skill. I win small, you win big.

 What could you say to that but to p him on the back andugh? That was the Season of Spring for you.

 -

 The Summers Champion wished he had seen the bout between the Springs Warden and the neer [Knight]. There was a lot and a little to do in the Order of Seasons keep and he relished new, interesting things.

 Not everyone took to the monastic lifestyle here. Summer Knights were about the crusade, and often left for extended periods. But their leader, the Summers Champion, had duties.

 Theyshed. He got bored. He wanted to get into the war with Ailendamus, because their aggression rankled him. But he respected Knight-Commander Calirns authority.

 Even so, he was impetuous, known to be hot-tempered at times. Like fire and ice, winter and summer shed.

 The Summers Champion, Greysten, got into things. He was all passion for a project or an idea, but he didnt stick with it all the time, and delegated it, lost interest. That could be goodor bad.

 There had been an incident already this year. Ice cream. Hed gotten into the frozen treat, which went so damn well with the heat. Brought some for the Season of Summer to share about, ate itand ate it

 The quartermasters bill had made Calirn take the Summers Champion to task for the incident. But so it went. Summer was another kind of youth.

 So it was that the Summers Champion was about to have a drink with the older [Knights] of the order and grouse about damned Ailendamus and the Thronebearersck of sess on the fieldin private, to ease his frustrationwhen a tap came at his door.

 He opened it.

 Ser Vitin?

 The Summer Knight hade to see him. It was after much thought, reluctanceand he might not have done it, but he felt the need to talk to his superior about Ser Solstice. Even so, he would have been reluctant, but he had talked Talia into joining him.

 She had heard nothing from Knight-Commander Calirn and one did not demand to know his thoughts. So, she was here, when Vitin had approached her. If the head of their season did not know, they reasoned, he should.

 Talia felt a flutter in her stomach, remembering Calirns disapproval, but Vitin had said he needed to tell someone so shed agreed to apany him. But he got to talk.

 Was this right to do? She stemmed the question as Vitinid out the problem.

 It is Ser Solstice, Summers Champion. He is

 His identity? Are you privy to that knowledge?

 The Summers Champion blinked at them. He was tall, imposing, and Talia had told Calirn because she knew the reputation of how spontaneous he was. Better to be present to stop him if Vitin decided to do itter. She could run and get Calirn or another senior member if he ranimpulsive.

 That was her reasoning. Vitin nodded, gulping. He was not as familiar with the Summers Champion as, say, you would be with the Springs Warden. She tended to talk to all new [Knights]; the Summers Champion and the Season of Summer was more hierarchical at the moment. He went on great errant deeds when not here and didnt get to spend time with the younger [Knights], for all he was reckoned as a greatmander in the field and very affable, even too much so.

 Champion, he is

 I dont want to hear it. This is not something a [Knight] should betray.

 The Summers Champion folded his arms. Vitin and Talia stared at him.

 Weknow that, Grandmaster. But even so, because of what the truth is, we felt it was beyond our ability to decide.

 Talia broke in for the first time. The Summers Champions eyes swept towards her. They zed with passion; his quarters were hot, even at night. Hed started fires with his temper and the ambient air shot up in temperature.

 Speaking another [Knight]s secret, Dame Talia, Ser Vitin? I wont hear of it.

 But Summers ChampionSer Solstice is a Goblin!

 Vitin protested. The secret once more revealed

 Or not. Because the Summers Champion had promptly put two fingers in his ears.

 Llla.

 He intoned as loudly as possible. Talia and Vitin stared at him. He kept repeating himself until he was sure Vitin was done.

 I am not listening, [Knights]. And I will forget this incident urred, for the honor of

 Ser Solstice is a Goblin.

 Talia snapped, appalled at the childish behavior from the Grandmaster of their Season. The Summers Champion froze.

 What did you say?

 He is a Goblin, Grandmaster. Now do you

 -

 The Summers Champion kicked the door open to Calirns room and strode in.

 Knight-Commander! I have an issue to speak of!

 He stormed in as Calirn was shaving his cheek. The Knight-Commander nearly sliced off his left jowl.

 Summers Champion?

 No guesses what had set him off. One look at the apprehensive Summer Knights at the doorTalia and Vitinand the Summers Champions face, and Calirn knew.

 Cold met hot and steam rose from the mans ire. Calirn rose. The Summers Champion had actually left ming footsteps as he stomped through a garden.

 Summers Champion, control your temper.

 The man did so with effort. The heating off him abated. Calirn sighed.

 He knew Ser Solstice was a Goblin. Vitin and Talia stared at the closed door, worried about what might happen and regretting their choices. Summer was passionate and sometimes made mistakes in the heat of the moment.

 What they didnt know was the contents of the angry discussion in the Knight-Commanders private study. Hed moved it there to avoid his room being filled with steam.

 If you know, then that makes two of us!

 Four. I informed the Falls Sentinel and he reported that the Springs Warden already had a [Knight] inform her of Ser Solstices origin.

 Four? The Winters Watcher is the only one left out? Dead gods burning on Giants tits, Calirn! This is too much! Are we [Knights] or children tossing around secrets bound by chivalry? I nearly threw both of them off the keeps walls! My first instinct is to revoke their knighthoodwhich I will not do. But youd better do something before I simply hit them!

 The Summers Champion was pacing back and forth. Ser Solstice being a Goblin was almost forgotten. Calirn was surprisedbut that was him.

 Dame Talia and Ser Vitin? I amupset that they broke their vows, especially as I had been informed, Summers Champion.

 Especially of Dame Talia. But Calirn didnt inme the mans temper further. The Summers Champion spun on his heel.

 Those two, and whoever told the Springs Warden! For that matterwhy are you going around spreading information?

 To the Falls Sentinel? Because I am Grandmaster of all four Seasons and a Goblin [Knight] might well be a danger. I had to be sure once I knew. That is my duty. And you are Grandmaster of the Order of Summer, Greysten. You know our duty sometimes wars with honor!

 The man turned even redder, but slowly copsed into a chair.

 Its one Goblin. I find this breach of chivalry more important, Calirn. What, do they want me to decide to chop off its head? Ithesaved them from being ransomed and apparently came to their aid during the Ogre attack! In return, our Order decides to stab him in the back.

 I see that. Since you are so enraged, Summers Champion, I remind you that they thought his nature might interfere with their vows to respect another [Knight]s code. The argument being that he is a Goblin, therefore, not a [Knight].

 Hmm.

 The man was calming down already. He sat there, still leaking steam, but slowly thinking.

 I dont agree. I dont ept it. And Im ashamed my order spoke more than Spring Knightswho can barely keep their mouths shut!

 Summer crusades against monsters more hotly than all. Yours is a passionate season, Greysten.

 Shame is shame. Honor is honor. Secret is secret.

 There was no prevaricating with him. Calirn nodded.

 If you would like me to adjudicate for you, Summers Champion, I will. But this is a matter of morality; at the heart of it I believe all sides acted in ordance with how they see honor. Talia Kallinads family is of Pheint, and saw the Goblin Kings destruction. They would remember how he erased members of the Hundred Families down to thest person in their bloodlines.

 Its one Goblin. Now I want to meet him, especially since I heard he forced the Springs Warden to use a Skill in a bout! Ill do that. But punishment

 The Summers Champion went into deep thought. Calirn waited.

 Summer was passionate. But not shallow or stupid. And atst, the taller man spoke.

 You said they objected on the basis of honor, but to do so, they impugn this Ser Solstices honor, Knight-Commander. I propose a test, upon which I will rest myints. If I am wrong, they will not be punished and I will support any scrutiny or judgment against this Goblin [Knight].

 And if you are right?

 I leave the matter in yourcalmerhands. But I will not protest their revocation of their [Knight] ss, regardless of their status.

 The hands clenched. The eyes shed. Calirn sat there, and then slowly nodded.

 What is the nature of the test? You will stage an ident?

 The orange hair shook as the Summers Champion stood up.

 Must we grapple and talk about what makes a man a [Knight], Knight-Commander? My answer is simple. If he is a [Knight], he is a [Knight]!

 -

 Rabbiteater opened the door to his rooms. The Falls Sentinel was there.

 Good evening, Ser Solstice, is it?

 Yes. You areimportant?

 The Hobgoblin was wary. But the old man looked kind, more bookish than the others. Like the [Shaman] the Redfangs had once had, before he got eaten by Eater Goats in an ambush when Rabbiteater was small.

 Indeed, indeed. I hope, Ser Solstice, I am not intruding. I would simply like to invite you to join the Season of Fall on the morrow.

 Why?

 I am told you are a supetive trap expert, and skilled in any number of wilderness techniques. The Season of Fall loves new knowledge, or those who can embody it. Would you care to go on a hike with some knights in training and discuss your experience?

 Rabbiteater considered it.

 Sure.

 Excellent. Then, I will send for you after breakfast. Good night to you.

 And that was that. The Falls Sentinel inclined his head. Rabbiteater copied him, a bit warily. The Falls Sentinel walked down the hallway.

 And?

 Knight-Commander Calirn and the Summers Champion were waiting. The Summers Champions arms were folded and he had begun heating up again. The Falls Sentinel raised his brows.

 [Champion], and [Knight-Errant].

 Both men exhaled.

 [Knight-Errant]. It suits him.

 And it means Im right. This is scurrilous behavior of our Order and I demand there be punishment!

 The Summers Champion pressed a fist into his hand. Calirn was inclined to agree. But he made sure.

 There is no way the [Appraisal] spell could be circumnavigated or tricked, Falls Sentinel?

 The man raised his brows a touch higher.

 Of course there is, Knight-Commander. But practically? From this one Goblin whom I detected not a whiff of magic about? Aside from his gear, of course? Very unlikely.

 Then he is a [Knight]. Summers Champion, I will honor your request.

 Knight-Commander Calirn sighed. The Summers Champion waited, hands clenching and unclenching.

 Well?

 Dame Talia and Ser Vitin acted in what they thought was the best interests of the Order. HoweverI ede to Summers will. It is up to the Springs Warden to enforce this punishment, as the contents of her conversation are unknown. However. Dame Talia and Ser Vitin are hereby sentenced to a month ofbor in menial chores, to be decided by Summers Champion, and stripped of any honors of rank.

 That meant even the basic luxuries like being able to ride out and visit your family in Pheint that any standard [Knight] got after their first year. The Knight-Commander turned to the Summers Champion.

 You may revoke that at will if needed, Summers Champion. But they are not to speak of Ser Solstices nature, nor the reason for their punishment. Will that suit?

 It will indeed, Knight-Commander.

 The Summers Champion strode off. Calirn sighed.

 All this over one [Knight]. But it was wrong to me the Goblin. His presence had revealed a fault in the Orders understanding of honorat least, to the Summers Champion.

 Well, the punishment was not the heaviest it could be. However, the Summers Champion could bevindictive. He kicked into therge gathering ce where the Summers Knights gathered in their section of the keep and delivered the punishment at full bellow, not even checking to see if Talia or Vitin were present.

 -

 The next day, Talia and Ser Vitin engaged in stable cleaningand toilet cleaning. An unenviable task, especially since the Chandrarian chutney had been slightly off yesterday.

 Rabbiteater, oblivious to this, went with the Season of Fall on a hike through one of the forests under the Order of Seasonsnds granted to them by Pheint.

 They had a lot of space. Nice space, that extended all the way to the cliffs on the shoreline. They were a defensive force, able to go on crusades and hold this space.

 They even had [Farmers], several small settlements that made produce and enjoyed the protection of an entire [Knight] order. It was as close to paradise as you got without actual paradise.

 For a Goblin? Magnificent.

 The forest wasnt without dangers, though. There were bears, boars, other wildlife that the [Knights] wouldnt exterminate.

 But the Autumn Knights werent exactly slouches either. Yes, you called them Fall Knights because they were the worst season at purebat. But they also practiced magic, and academia.

 Books werent useless. You could take notes of enemy locations in them, use them for kindling on cold nights, relief after bad pooseven read them.

 Joining the expedition, to Rabbiteaters surprise, was Dame Meisa. It didnt bother the Falls Sentinel; indeed, a number of other [Knights] and [Squires] had joined.

 They may wish to join or learn from our season, Ser Solstice. All are wee to participate in such events. Dame Meisa is a Spring Knight, but she may well choose our season in time.

 She nodded. The younger [Knight] looked downcast and quiet today.

 She had asked the Springs Warden to share in the disgrace of the two senior [Summer Knights] upon hearing of the incident. The Springs Warden had deliberated, and then informed Dame Meisa she could join her fellow [Knights], of course, but her punishment was to live with her actions, which had been so well-intentioned.

 Watch. Listen.

 Learn something.

 That was the attitude of fall, when all kinds of weird things started happening. In between the barren chill of winter and the profusion of life that was summer, things were different.

 They watched, as Ser Solstice demonstrated his understanding of woodcraft to them.

 You can eat that.

 You can eat that too.

 Cant eat that.

 You can eat that, but bad poos.

 You can eat that, but you might die. About one third die.

 One of the [Squires] stopped taking notes and looked at the Falls Sentinel. The older man was delighted.

 Fascinating. And this is Gwood lore from where youe from?

 Yes. You can eat that too.

 Rabbiteater indicated some bark. One of the [Knights] gave him a scandalized look.

 Ser Solstice, that is bark. One cannot live on that, even if it is edible.

 The [Knight] gave him a calm rebuttal.

 Cannot live, true. But can stop dying for as long as a month. If wounded, lying in the forest with leg break and no one finds yougood to know.

 Hed never experienced that himself, but he knew all the stories. The Fall Knights murmured. Meisa had to stop from imagining a Goblin

 More of his knowledge was practical. He showed them his trap-style, hanging the little strings with bells up. Also, how to fashion quick step-traps with spikes out of mere wood.

 Traps are hardly the act of valor.

 But we do employ them, from time to time, Ser Drommel. We do use runic magic. If, say, one could envision fighting Crelers or the Demons of Rhirhave you fought Crelers, Ser Solstice?

 Yep. Nasty. Hard to kill. Very bad to have, even in High Passes.

 How so? I was told that was the most inhospitable climate, even for Crelers.

 The others listened, having asked questions about Gargoyle fighting and so on. Rabbiteater borated.

 Monsters kill them. Butif its Eater Goats, they eat Crelers. Theneggs hatch in them. Creler swarm can get bigger if Eater Goats attack them, after a few weeks.

 The expedition shuddered. Rabbiteater shrugged. Then it was his turn to listen to a speech on herb craft.

 We are not [Healers]. But if youck for his Balm Rootbined with a mix of the following leaves and flowers is said to have beneficial qualities against infection. We have tried to preserve the paste, but it is ineffective. Ive suggested taking all the samples along forrger expeditions, but the order has not yet implemented this.

 Rabbiteater stared at the root that was native to Terandria. He promptly took as much as he could carry.

 The things the Season of Fall knew were so impressive to the Goblin! As valuableperhaps more than Springs training. If hed known about the balm root, his friends might not have died or had to cut off limbs due to sickness.

 RabbitSer Solstice. May I ask a question?

 Meisa brought it up as they had lunch. She was staring at his cloak. The others turned. They had thought it was a kind of cloth at first, or realized it was obviously magical, but after staring at it for a long time, Meisa atst had to ask what the liquid was.

 Blood.

 The Cloak of Plenty had his brothers blood. It was a shieldand you could use it to transfuse blood, as Rags had learned from Vns memory. Meisa paled.

 Fromwhom?

 My brother. Liscor. He died there.

 Oh. I

 She gulped.

 Im sorry, Ser Solstice. I told the Springs Warden about you. I am ashamed.

 He looked at her, sandwich halfway to his lips. She looked embarrassed and full of chagrin. He slowly flipped open his visor, took a fast bite. Chewed it. Took another bite.

 Meisa waited. But the Hobgoblin eventually reached for another sandwich.

 Ser Solstice?

 Okay.

 But I

 He shrugged.

 Springs Warden is like a Chieftain. Sometimes you have to tell them. I am

 He tapped his chest, looking at the distant [Knights]. Dame Meisa hung her head.

 But I had no cause.

 Yes you did.

 He looked at her. The history of Goblins and Humans was reflected in it. Meisa blinked. Even nodded.

 But I am still ashamed, sir.

 The Goblin yer tilted his head. After a moment, his visor came up. She saw lips move up in a grin.

 Good. Trade sandwich and I forgive you.

 He wanted hers, which was stuffed with mackerel. She traded it for tomato and jerky. They sat together, as Meisa felt some of her guilt lift atst. After a while, she saw the visor open and snap shut; he was eating inside his helmet.

 Ser Solstice?

 Mm?

 Do you truly like rabbits that much?

 He leaned over.

 Nah. Just caught them because I was hungry. They got boring.

 Ah.

 -

 Ser Solstice! Do you have time tonight?

 A booming man caught Rabbiteater after they returned from the day-long expedition. The Summers Champion grabbed him by the shoulder.

 Yes. Something wrong?

 Not at all. Lets have a drink. I wanted to meet the man who acted so valorously for our Order. Come,e!

 And that was how the Summers Champion practically dragged Rabbiteater to one of the [Knight]s drinking areas in the keep. They might be [Knights]but they did keep alcohol for those who wanted it.

 Rabbiteater drank through a straw. The Summers Champion kept staring at him.

 He wasso unsubtle Rabbiteater figured out in a second who Meisa had told. Or thought he did. Thus, being wrong, but right for the wrong reasons. In the end, the Summers Champion came out with it after two drinks.

 Iknow who you are, Ser Solstice. I was informed. And it falls to me to tell you that I was told of your nature. I did not ask, but there we are.

 Rabbiteater froze. The man was looking at him.

 The Summers Champion, as the Hobgoblin had observed, was tall. Six foot three, maybe an inch taller? Tall, strong, orange of hair, and direct.

 He was the kind of man who stood at the fore of battle and bellowed orders whileying about him. And he was direct, honest.

 You know I ama Goblin?

 Yes.

 They sat alone, in a quiet booth. The Summers Champion stared at Rabbiteater. Then he reached for his drink.

 I do not do well with subterfuge. Secrets eat at me until I spit them out. I know. And I have in more Goblins than I can count. I am reckoning with it now, looking upon you.

 Hm. And I have killed many Humans. Feels bad, sometimes. But they were trying to kill me.

 The Summers Champion blinked at him. Then heughed.

 True! Like thatwe could be enemy warriors who sit down for a drink. But there is more there. History and whatnot. The Falls Sentinel talked my ear off about it this morninger

 He realized that implied the Falls Sentinel knew too. Rabbiteater had suspected as much. Knight-Commander Calirn had spoken to him over dinner one time, just asked him about training and such.

 He was not a genius, nor Erin-smart, but he wasnt a fool either. He didnt see why it bothered the [Knights] so much. IfTaliahad joined the Redfangs as a mysterious warrior in armor and hed found out, he would have told Garen in two heartbeats.

 Maybe. He thought about Garens temper and hesitated. If it was Erin

 Ah, but there it is. We are [Knights]. Honor is at the heart of who we are, or we are no better than [Warriors]. Not to impugn them, but we must be more or we are not [Knights].

 To his surprise, the Summers Champion was quite philosophical as they talked about the issue. Onlyhe had convictions. He had an answer for any moral quandary you might have.

 I struggle with such things, Rabbiteater, until I have an answer that suits me. I cannot live without one. I fear only that I am wrong, which is why I listen to Calirn and other, more cool-headed voices. I could never be the Grandmaster of the entire Order. I am little suited to Summer, in truth. Buta better man than me could not take the post. His name was Ser Raim and he passed, a few months ago. Dame Talia and herpany rode to his aid. But he was lost.

 What happened?

 The Summers Champion shook his mane of hair.

 I will not speak the name of the one who would sour even this moment. Suffice it to say, Ser Raim embodied the better parts of our natureshe and I were both contenders for this position. But he could keep himself calm and fight with fire in his heart. I am less controlled. But helost his love. And rage and vengeance and the desire for justice consumed him.

 Rabbiteater nodded.

 I had a brother who was a [Berserker]. Got mad. But also sad. Good brother. I have his axe.

 Headscratcher. The Summers Champion smiled. They began to swap stories.

 At some point, more Summer Knights joined in. Older, more senior ones, who wanted to get a sense of this new [Knight]and why Talia and Vitin had disgraced themselves in the Summer Champions eyes.

 They found little to reproach. It was like hanging out with Redfangs again. If the Spring Knights were younger Redfangs, these were the old ones, the veterans who joked around, like Spiderslicer, Redscar, whod seen battle. Who got mad, too.

 Ailendamus is the aggressor! We fight injustice where it urs, Ser Zulv!

 The Summers Champion roared across the table. Ser Zulv barked back.

 And bring the Order of Seasons into a war that will weaken both nations? We cannot end this war on onence-charge, Summers Champion!

 What then? We let Ailendamus grow until it eats every nation in the south? I say, we throw four hundred Summer Knights into the conflict and dare them toe after us here! Or do you think the Dawn Concordats day is done? The Thronebearers wont see to it!

 The intense disdain for the Thronebearers skill-at-arms was something Rabbiteater could get behind. The Summers Champion mmed a hand on his back.

 Why, Ser Solstice is an example of even a [Knight-Errant] being superior to an entire orders training! He forced the Springs Warden to use her Skillhow good are you with a de, man?

 Good.

 Really? Lets see.

 That was how Rabbiteater found himself, drunk, swinging away at the Summers Champion in the Season of Summers courtyard.

 The Summers Champion needed no Skills either; he wasnt asgraceful as the Springs Warden, but he was like Rabbiteater wanted to be. Someone who had mastered battle, or at least, reached a peak that Rabbiteater had not.

 The Goblin yer threw up a bit after he got hit in the stomach. It even dented his armor. The Summers Champion helped him up.

 Good show! Are you well, Ser Rabbit?

 The other stirred at the idental use of his name, but Rabbiteater liked it.

 Good! Can fight

 Really? Anyone else want to test his mettle? Lets see axes!

 The Summers Knightsthe drunk onesjoined in. The younger [Knights] watched, including two smelly ones, as Rabbiteater actually bested two more.

 He is good.

 One of the Summer Knights insisted on trying Rabbiteater with full Skills and gear. Everyone watched as the [Champion]s armor shone; his enchanted axe and the extending de kept the Summer Knight well clear, and the cloak of blood actually blocked a bolt of fire with a hiss. Rabbiteater charged in and overpowered his foe with [Enhanced Strength].

 Well done. Well done.

 The Summers Champion was treating him like one of his inner circle! Talia swallowed her feelings as Ser Solstice lurched a bit, still sobering up. He took a long sip of water; it was hot in the courtyard where so many Summer Knights were gathered.

 Tis unfair to make him duel one of the Grandmasters, Summers Champion! But he has not yet been bested in fullbat!

 One of the Summer Knights called out. It was true. Only one person had actually challenged Rabbiteater with full gearor practice weapons but Skills. Not Ser Medul; only the younger [Summer Knight] whom Rabbiteater had beaten.

 Hes half-drunk. Maybe you can have a go at himter if you want to make a point, Dame Pitram. But I do wonderis Dame Voost here?

 Talia blinked. Dame Voost was present, and stepped forwards.

 She is our best [Knight] with a de, Ser Rabbiter, Ser Solstice.

 Talias ears twitched at the name. That couldnt be a nickname. She wanted to know. And feltshe saw the Summers Champion indicate the woman.

 Do you think you could make a fair match of it? Even beat her?

 He grinned. The [Summer Knight] smiled.

 Bravado in the air,ughterit was something actually a bit foreign to Talia. She felt more stiff than Rabbiteater at this moment, as if theyd reversed sides. Somehowhe knew thepany of veterans more than she.

 The Hobgoblin took one look at Dame Voost, and tilted his head. Then he replied, audibly, for all.

 Maybe. Think I can win.

 The Season of Summer liked that. Theyughed, or urged him to give it a shot. Dame Voost indicated the enchanted axe.

 Gear, or Skills, Ser yer? I will settle for practice weapons and you with the axe if you will it, to make up for your drinking.

 No injuries! Ill step in if I think someone will get hurt!

 The Summers Champion dered. Rabbiteater just shrugged.

 Practice sword works.

 Oho. Talias eyes narrowed at the same time as Dame Voost. Was he taking her lightly because of her gender? Some [Knights] did

 But she did not know Goblins. Rabbiteater made no such assumptions. But he was confident.

 The Season of Summer watched as Voost began walking counter-clockwise around him. She used sword and kite shield.

 The Summer Knights watched, now curious to see if the Knight of Solstice was all talk. They knew Dame Voosts dework and he wasnt that goodespecially drunk. But maybe a Skill?

 The woman was waiting for him to make the first move. She had a step-in that could rival a [Fencer]s, but her real strength was a burst-of-strength Skill that would beat even [Enhanced Strength] in a close contest.

 Rabbiteater knew his n. He waited, until Dame Voosts eyes narrowed and she began to tensethen he raised his sword suddenly. She braced

 And he tossed the practice sword down on the ground. The Summer Knights stared as the Hobgoblin raised two gauntleted hands and made fists.

 What now, Ser Solstice? Are you giving up?

 She called to him. The Goblin grinned.

 No.

 Pick up your sword, then.

 No. Fight me.

 He challenged her. And thenthe Summers Champion burst outughing. Some of the other Summer Knights shook their heads. Talia was appalled.

 She knew what the dilemma was. Either Dame Voost used a sword against an unarmed foe, orthe woman eyed Rabbiteaters brawling stance.

 Thats not honorable.

 Nothe Summers Champion watched as Dame Voost hesitated, then tossed down her de to the cheers of others and raised her gauntletsand put on a helmet.

 That was a Goblin [Knight]s sense of honor. Different in some ways, buthe smiled as the two went at it. Rabbiteater knocked Voost sprawling, then went for her when she was down.

 It went even. She was still a senior [Summer Knight], but shecked most of her Skills. In the end, both called for a tie after nearly twelve minutes of grappling and bruises. Rabbiteater shook her hand, afterwards.

 Strong with fists and sword. Thought it was only one.

 And you, Ser Solstice, fight well. Summer fades!

 She pped him on the shoulder. The other Summer Knights nodded. Rabbiteater grinned behind his helmet. He saw Talia watching and looked at her. She nced away.

 -

 One weekter, Dame Talia was heading to her rooms to scrub the scent of crap off her. She was angry, humiliatedbut not just because of her punishment.

 It was the nature of things to change. The Order of Seasons knew it full well. They were a unique type of Order, even among the varied [Knights] of Terandria.

 That they had weed a Goblin among them, or rather, their orders heads had, at least, might have been because they were founded next to a coastal nation which did see more non-Humans. Perhaps it was just the Grandmasters of their time.

 Talia had understood the reason why she was punished, even if she resented it and found it mortifying. Even if she feltunable to exin how jarring, upsetting, Ser Solstices identity had been.

 Perhaps because the full reason of it wasnt something she was consciously willing to acknowledge. Perhaps because all that she had found admirable, even more, attractive, about Ser Solstice had gone sideways when it was revealed who, or what he was.

 It would have been easierand harder for the Order to ept himif he did not act sonormal. Not Human, not necessarily; just like a person.

 Because he had been around them. Because he had met the [Innkeeper].

 Those days had not been in vain. And their legacy had carried him here. In unexpected ways.

 -

 Knight-Commander Calirn was not the Summers Champion, who seemed to have practically taken Ser Solstice under his wing.

 The Grandmaster of the Order of Seasons was far more wary. And of the Grandmasters, he sensed the same from the Springs Warden and the Falls Sentinel.

 She was polite, but clearly watchful. The Falls Sentinel was more sociablebut by the same token, clearly regarded the Goblin as an object of study as much as a [Knight].

 There was the thing. He was a [Knight], so the Order of Seasons either believed in that fundamental simrity, or not.

 But even so. Another Goblin who chanced upon the ss wouldnt be soso

 Disarmingly friendly.

 It came from the inn. Such as, when Knight-Commander Calirn was stiffly dining with Rabbiteater and two other [Knights] from foreign Orders. A Trudravel Knightwho was actually quite friendly because his Order fought and lived among the tundra of the northand a Thronebearer of Cnfer, here to plead his Orders case for the war with the Order of Seasons, despite the ribbing from all sides.

 Small things, like, as they were dining on a particrly nice roast in honor of their guests, the Goblin turned.

 Pass the mustard, please.

 Of course

 Calirn blinked as he instinctivelypassed the mustard. Ser Solstice spread it on the bit of meat, turned his head to the wall, popped his visor open a tiny crack, and put it in. The Thronebearer watched, still bemusedthe Trudravel Knight thought it was hugely entertaining.

 Apparently, someone had asked the Season of Fall to provide a vision-scrambling charm such that you only saw darkness if you nced under the visor. Dame Meisas request had been answered by the Falls Sentinel, and now Ser Solstice ate inpany.

 The Goblin happily added the condiment to his food. And Calirn had to askbut how did you ask?

 Is mustardmon among Goblins?

 I hope you find our condiments to your liking, Ser Solstice? I understand Izril uses a number of sauces Terandriacks. Gnollish and Drakeish foods. I have sampled them from time to time, and we could provide them if you find it nostalgic.

 That was his best foot forwards. The Goblin looked up, after chewing, and nodded.

 Goodcondiments. Like home. No mayonnaise, though?

 Mayonnaise? Im not familiar with that one, Ser Solstice. Izrilian, is it?

 The [Knight] of the tundras chuckled. The Thronebearer and Ser Calirn listened as Rabbiteater shook his head and tried to exin.

 No. Its white. Egg andlemon? And oil. Very tasty. You eat with fries.

 Which are?

 Sliced potatoes. Fry in oil. Very tasty. Know how to cook.

 You know how to cook?

 Calirn burst out, until he realized how ludicrous it sounded. The Thronebearers gave him a sidelong look and the Grandmaster had to cough.

 That isI cannot but boil water at a fire. My aura and such.

 It was rare to see the Winter Knight blush at all. But Rabbiteater smiled and remembered cooking lessons and a group of Cave Goblinsand one with a poofy hat.

 You brought what youd seen and done wherever you went. So, Knight Calirn watched, incredibly bemused, as Rabbiteater experimentally made mayonnaise with one of the [Cooks]. It was actually tastyandafter inquiring, he found it was a gourmet food newly on the market, originating from Izril. Szsar had the stuff! Invrisil was advertising it in its restaurants

 -

 The Springs Warden was simrly disarmed on another asion when she and the trainees paused for fun.

 Tilting?

 Rabbiteatercked this area of expertise, which relieved Ser Markus, as the Goblin had passed most of the Spring Knights in every other area from wrestling, climbing, and so on.

 But he didnt swim well, despite knowing how;rge bodies of water hadnt existed in the High Passes, and if they did, they were dangerous.

 Simrly, the act of tilting, with ance, wasnt a Goblin ideal. He was still willing to learn, and amused to hear there were entire tournaments around the same thing.

 Fun isnt restricted to [Knights], Ser Solstice. We have a number of simr activities. There are those who enjoy fencing and so on, but swimming is quite enjoyable, we often pic at scenic locationsand weve even added those new sports in the news. Do you know of them?

 The Springs Warden had heard the Goblinugh. She turnedand saw him pick up one of the baseball bats.

 It was, after all, an athletic sport and the Order of Seasons liked things that mixed both exercise and enjoyment. What the Springs Warden wasnt prepared for was to see Rabbiteater hit three homeruns in a row. The best pitcher had no actual ss, and Rabbiteater had seen curveballs, sliders, and magically-enhanced half-Elf fastballs that could break your bat in half.

 The Springs Warden, bemused, took up the pitching mound. Shebullied him a bit. Or tried to. Her fastball dipped with the wind. Rabbiteater whiffed twicethen sent it flying high and up.

 He grinned at her. The Springs Warden smiled despite herself.

 -

 They had forgotten, for a moment, that he was a [Champion]. The Falls Sentinel knew the ss. But he didnt realize how Goblins saw the ss.

 Champion was champion. And Rabbiteater, amiable, willing to walk into the kitchen and peel potatoes as much as shoot arrows with a Worker on the roof, had absorbed a bunch of things.

 Checkmate.

 The old [Knight] stared down at the board and then up at the Goblins invisible grin behind his helmet. Rabbiteater had enjoyed that. Erin had made him y with her, but it was no fun ying the freaks in her inn. They were all expertseven the Falls Sentinel was an easier opponent than Erins chess club.

 The Knights of the Autumn murmured in surprise as the Falls Sentinel looked at the board in dismay. Someonemented.

 Hes quite good.

 I know. And he knows other games, Falls Sentinel.

 Meisa broke in before Ser Markus could. She seemed even more proud than he wasthe Knight of Izril had depths. Because of the inn. The legacy and astonishment carried on.

 -

 To today. A Hobgoblins smile. AndDame Meisa slipping out of his rooms before dawn, as Talia went to wash from her cleaning duties.

 A springs romance.

 Dame Talia jumped. Someone else had observed the moment which had driven her to fury. She had nearly gone after Dame Meisabut the huge figure stopped her.

 The Summers Champion had gone for a morning, twenty-mile run and was covered in sweat. He nced at her.

 I put Ser Solstice as the Season of Summer myself, Dame Talia. Of all our Seasons, I believe he is mine. Wouldnt you agree?

 He is not of our order, Summers Champion!

 The man frowned at her and she mastered her tongue.

 If he was, I would im him, Dame Talia. And if he isSpring and summerplement each other. Spring invigorates summer, and it is a good match. A passing thing, but why do you frown?

 You know why.

 He raised his brows.

 If it were any other pair of [Knights], no one would remark on a thing.

 That is because this is different, Summers Champion! It is notsimple

 He nodded as she struggled for words. He had a towel around his neck and was bare-chested, sweating profusely. That did not bother her, but the sweat dried abruptly. He turned to face her.

 No, it is not, Dame Talia. But you seem to see all that is negative while I choose to do the opposite. I punished you. Do you seek to change your season?

 No, Summers Champion. But I will not ask for forgiveness. I acted as I thought was best.

 She lifted her chin, and he nodded.

 Nor would I ask you to change your season. You and I disagree, but I would never deny that you were of my order. Summers heat. Summer fades, but we keep to our opinions, dont we?

 She didnt reply. His eyes studied her. And they were as merciless as the zing summers day for a moment.

 Still, Dame Talia. Between you and methat you told me and Calirn of Ser Solstices nature? Knowing he might suffer or die because of whom he was, after all he had done? That was a move as cold as snow.

 He turned and walked off, leaving her at a loss for words. She stomped off to take a bath and it became a hot tub. Literally.

 The Order of Seasons had a new [Knight] in its midst. A Goblin. Hey on his back.

 Wow. That was a lot of fun. Seriously. He tried to figure out how long it had beenbut hed left the Redfang camps on his mission and it was an all-male team that Garen had appointed, to prevent fightsand then hed been at the inn.

 Not that you couldnt deal with it yourself, but you forgot there were better options. Anyways. Hey there for a while.

 This was a nice ce. He was having a good time. The Goblin smiled to himself.

 He was having an adventure.

 -

 It was an enduring trait among Humans that never ceased to amaze. What was different was hated, reviledor exotic and sexual.

 It had once been spected that Humans had attempted to mate with every species in the worldand many non-species. Not every race did that. But the Human method to sess seemed to beif you couldnt beat it, see if it could reproduce.

 And if that seemed like a generalist statement, a judgment inherently speciesist or racistwell, he agreed. And hed seen a lot of Human proclivity in his lifetime.

 Eldavin was propositioned for sex the third day he was at Wistram academy. It took him hindsight, and the third go-around, to realize that had been what the young woman had been intimating.

 Children!

 He was appalled. His true nature aside, the Dragonhalf-Elfwas still old for a half-Elf! By rights, they should assume he was three hundred years old, at least! But that young half-Elfof the Centrist factionhad been barely seventy.

 Scandalous. But it was a truism of power as well. When someone like Eldavin showed up, established powers tried to do everything to find a weakness or hold on him.

 ckmail, sex, and so on.

 Eldavin considered it meant he was having an impact. He reclined in one of thergest series of rooms in Wistram, a far cry from the shabby ce where hed first been quartered, sipping from aplimentary brandy gifted to him.

 Hed forgotten what it was like to be inebriated. The half-Elf sighed.

 Ah, the foibles of the flesh.

 But not sex. He was still Teriarch inside, and his experience informed Eldavin. Indeed, he was today already plotting how to expand the new faction that had arisen around him.

 Not just him. Fortune had put Archmage Valeterisa in his way. She was faction-less too, and it had been a stroke of luck that they could agree to form a new body of power.

 Of all the Archmages, she reminded him most of the old sort. Academic. Uninterested in politics for their own sake. Pursued by quiteudable ambition to learn magic.

 Ruthless, of course; hed inquired about her. But quite humblepared to the other Archmages. Shed asked him to share knowledge and he had reciprocated, pretending not to be as learned as he really wasjust extremely so for this day and age.

 Thus, the two had formed the base of the new political faction. The, ahTerras faction of Wistram, which had no rtionto anyones name, was ostensibly one based around the old name of Earth. Terra. Also, the word in the oldnguage.

 Earth. Grounded. Sensible, pragmatic.

 And it spoke to the new world now entering this one. Teriarch hummed softly to himself.

 -

 On the second day, the Archmage of Izril, Eldavin, and a number of new [Mages] who could be trusted had been told of the great secret of Earth.

 A [High Mage] on the Council itself had told them in secrecy, a Garuda. He had refrained from even telling Grand Magus Erkika; Wistram had taken precedence over the bonds of species.

 The old Garuda had stirred as a globe of Earth was brought in. He stared, uprehendingly, at the. Thenpictures, taken from the iPhones,puters, electronics.

 Peopleughing, or posing in front of buildings. Airnes in the sky. Evena picture of video games. Valeterisa had stared at one. Teriarch had wondered if it was harder than Cookie Clicker.

 Magi, this is Earth. Another world. Another <em, in a reality somehow divorced from ours, which evolved and formed in a ce where other speciesto our knowledgenever existed. Only Humanity, who, without magic, mastered their. This is Earth. And there are children from this appearing in our world.

 Eldavin sat there as Valeterisa, Erkika, and the other [Mages] eyes tried to exit their heads. They were disbelieving at first, shocked. Then they babbled questions, demanded proof.

 Proof? Proof was aputer. Proof was the foods they had eaten at dinner! Proof was a truth spell and a young man from EarthAaron Vanwell. Also, him demonstrating a battery, an electric battery, that ran without magic, and a hand-cranked device which created electricity.

 Proof was stic. And though they did not believe at first, some of them, those who had understood the strangeness happening in the world, sat back as it all came together.

 Valeterisas fingers were shaking as she adjusted her spectacles and asked questions, even over the Garudas attempts to speak.

 Is there anymonality with magic? Is there a portal? Is this rted to the Demons activity? Query #221, pressingwhat is the mechanism by which this electricity forms that screen without magic? Can wemunicate

 It was at this moment, as some [Mages] in-the-know watched the reactions smugly, that Grand Magus Eldavin stood up.

 All eyes were on him; he was one of the big yers, having established himself by the huge magical fight on the first night. The Depth Mage was not present, but she was being considered due to her level and a possible tie to the Drowned Fleets. Fissival had been ruled out, but Wistram was treating this information as time-critical. It would lose its value soon, and so why not use it for favor and alliances now?

 The old half-Elfs eyes studied the presentation. The Garuda [High Mage], Magus Verki, smiled with a hint of superiority.

 Grand Magus, you had a question?

 Valeterisa and the other [Mages] looked at him. The Grand Mage nodded.

 Yes, young man. Pray, may we skip the introductory phase? I came here for information about Earth, not recap.

 The Garudas beak opened. The [Mages] blinked.

 Youknow of Earth?

 Eldavin sniffed.

 This is basic news, Magus Verki. I do not need to be told of the obvious. Present me with a list of quantifiable information, please.

 He knew. Of course, Eldavin had already met Ryoka, which was what Teriarch was running with. He left the room, knowing that everyone was wondering what hed found out. It was about standing out.

 When they came by with a list of itemsby the Revivalist faction, which meant they were hoarding knowledge from each otherEldavin skimmed down it.

 Television, food, armaments, food, theories of electricity, more food, ys? I know all of this. Hm. Wait. This is new.

 He tapped Airsoft Gun after a moment. It was about telling the truth. He was quite happy to have the young man show him the device. Eldavin watched as it firedthen attended one of the presentations with mathematical forms.

 The Pythagorean Theorem was elementary. E=mc2 made him snort. But he grew thoughtful after that.

 Valeterisa was cribbing notes like mad. But Eldavin had to admitthe sight of a firearm, even in the rtively harmless form it had been presented in, made him ufortable.

 How they progressed, even without magic.

 But againhe had had such conversations with Reinhart long since, and she had expressed the same worries. Eldavin remained dutifully unimpressed.

 -

 He needed to be aloof. Wise, impartial, a magical mentor, someone who could speak and inform opinions. That was Eldavins conclusion, for how else would he change Wistram?

 And change it he must! He had promised Ryoka he would return, but he was aware now that his sojourn here would be at least two months, possibly four.

 He couldnt foresee any way to effect meaningful reform here without that amount of time. He would hurrymaybe quick-teleport back to the High Passes? Undoing all those protections was going to be a pain in the wings, but he would do it.

 Yet, Eldavins vast mind, a Dragons intellect, was now turned on one goal: to make Wistram change for what he believed was the better.

 For his arrival at the academy had shown him how it had kept some of its strength, but lost too much over only two centuries. Zelkyr was to me and he had thoughts about that.

 As well as Wistrams tant attempts to conceal Earth and amass power for themselves. Something needed to be done.

 Another of his kin, or just another kind of person, might opine that the best solution was to raze Wistram to the ground and sink the entire citadel into the sea. Teriarcheven if that were possible for him alonewould not have done that.

 The world needed Wistram Academy. There had been times in history that he had lived through when theck of a magical heart had left the world in dire need, and times when they had staved off armageddon by sacrifice, integrity, and wisdom.

 The world needed Wistram. What was up for debate was whether they needed this Wistram.

 So his new faction would be the lever upon which to effect change. But carefully. But subtly. The issue wasTeriarch knew all kinds of devious stratagems and political ys.

 But hed failed with the riddles, at least, in part. Wistram did not follow the same rulebook as before, so Teriarch was wary of trying something that would have worked in the old days and might backfire now.

 He couldnt rely on old favorites like the Penta-Mage Antagonism, an old trick wherein you set up five [Mages] of roughly equal strengths in too-close proximity. You see, four [Mages] could coexist in rtive harmony, but all but the rarest examples saw fivepeting powers inevitably turn to strife. Set them up, and watch them divide and fight until theyd destroyed whatever they were supposed to be protecting or working on.

 He had to be innovative, rather than use something fun like that. And remember all the old failures!

 It was almost easier to be ignorant and young, and not know the consequences of so many actions. Likeblood magic, for instance. Introduce that to a magical society and it could lead to [Mages] eating each other in basements.

 Not all the time; in fact, a statistical minority of the times blood magic was adopted. But once you saw it happen once, you were disinclined to allow it to happen again.

 The main thing was that he didnt want to teach them too much. But he had to teach them something to establish himself.

 That was how Eldavin found himself teaching a ss of students on day three. They had begged him, and after some thought, hed agreed to see what the level andpetency was.

 [Mages], Ie from an era before Zelkyr was Archmage. I remember old magicand Wistram has changed. So, while I have agreed to demonstrate some spells, you will first show me your methods.

 The half-Elf stood in front of a vast ss of nearly eighty. They were everyone from Trey Atwood, to actual [Mages] like Beatrice of the Revivalists, to Teura and Valeterisa herself, even if she wasnt standing with the actual students at their desks. Teriarch went on.

 I believe the dichotomy between [Fireball] spells is most important to study. It seems most have forgotten that spells are not constructed the same way! You all are practicing woven-style fabrication whichyou, get out.

 He pointed. A young man spluttered.

 What? Why?

 Because I do not care for skepticism, your attitude, or your presence. Out.

 Eldavin pointed at Timor du Havrington, whom he had recognized from the banquet. A spectral, giant hand shoved the young man out of ss as everyone watched. It flicked him into the hallway wall, and shut the door delicately as Eldavin turned back. Troy was grinning madly.

 I see students of every stripe here. No Gnolls?

 Gnolls?

 The students stirred. Eldavin counted every species except Gazers and Gnolls in his ss. He frowned.

 Hm. Have they started an academy of their own again? Well, so it goes. Now, demonstrate the [Fireball] spell for me, all of you. Hold itand why arent you putting your barrier spells up?

 Half the ss was frozen. Atst, a young [Mage] raised her hand tremulously.

 Grand Magus, we dont know the spell. Were only first-years.

 Some of the other [Mages] were hesitating, wondering if they could hold a [Fireball] spell once theyd created it. You created a [Fireball] and it blew up!

 Valeterisa was holding two [Fireballs]. Trey was sweating as he tried to figure it out. Eldavin stared.

 You dont know how to cast [Fireball]? That was the requirement forwell, [Fire Bolt], then. No?[Candle]. On three. One, twostop!

 He bellowed. The ss halted. Eldavin strode down the ranks of students.

 You. What are you doing, holding your wand like that? And youyour posture ispletely off. You, you, youdead gods, its easier to name whos doing it right. Stop!

 The students, bemused, saw him grab Treys arm, adjust it, check the griphe nodded at that, butmbasted a dozen students.

 Weak grips! Poor posture! Dont slump your shoulders! Straighten your spine!

 Does it matter, Grand Magus?

 A student protested. Eldavin stared at her.

 Get out.

 But I

 Out! If you cant stand properly when casting a spell, when one triggers a bacsh, donte crawling to me when it shatters your spine! For that matterposture matters when conducting magic! Out! Youtake off those rings!

 But magus, theyre Rings of Well and Concentration

 The half-Elf loomed over the unfortunate Human.

 Do you think Im blind? This is study, not a battle! Do you rely on a flying carpet when youre learning to walk? No aides! No Skills! Now, posture set! Hands, wands, staves at the readystop!

 It took six more attempts before they even got to casting [Candle]. And even then, Eldavin criticized things some [Mages] hadnt even known were a problem.

 Troy As got a pass because Gazi had told him how magic flowed through the body. You kept even distributions to ward off enemy spellsyou concentrated it where you wanted magic to be produced, like if you were casting without a catalyst and your bare hands.

 Terandrian schools still have it.

 Eldavinmented to the girl who hade in Treys ss. He nodded at some [Mages] from simr backgrounds; castigated those who didnt have this grounding.

 He wasnt, er, a nurturing teacher. Even Gazi had more patience than Eldavin, and she was arguably kinder, which was amazing to Trey.

 However, Eldavin was clearly a genius. In the end, he demonstrated five [Fireballs], producing them and letting them hover to the ss, even [Mages] peeking in.

 This is what I meant. Observe the formation of each one. New students, you cant see the flow of magic, but watch this one form in slow motion. This is your standard [Fireball], which forms using the weave-formation.

 Strands of fire knitted themselves together in a swirling mass, like yarn. Teriarch nodded at it.

 Not the most potent, but more difficult to dispel due to the formation, which it was why it is adopted. You seethepression style fireball can explode, which is why it was dropped; new [Mages] suffered idents. But it is quicker, more powerful, or at least, more variable in strength, and easier to actually cast. No wonder [Fireball] is considered a higher mark in spellcasting if you are all learning weave-style [Fireballs]!

 He showed them a huge ball of firepressing down smaller. A first-year student raised a hand.

 You mean, the other ones are easier, Grand Magus?

 He stared at her and she flinched, but the half-Elf nodded.

 Of course, young woman! You are a Level12 [Mage]? I see. Well, you could cast a set-style [Fireball] within the week. Woven-style is far harder.

 Me?

 She squeaked. The Grand Magus shrugged.

 Set-stylethergest one, hereis upressed, unwoven. Its justfire. But if I wanted to have a group of spellcasters throw [Fireball] in a week, Id teach them that. Nevertheless, knowing how to vary a spell is one of the fundamentals in a battle. For instance, a [Spellcut Warrior] can hack apart any cheap spell, but a woven-style [Fireball] or the link-style ones would give him troublebut do you need to use it in other circumstances? I posit no, but the standardization of magical spellslets all practicepression, shall we? With the [Candle] spell if you cant cast [Fireball].

 Treys head was spinning after the two hour-long ss, and he saw the same expression on other students. But he felt like hed learned something.

 You could link two spells together andbine, like, [Fireball] and [Water Orb] into one spell if you knew the right containment procedures. Then have them detonate in tandem. Imagine the possibilities!

 Valeterisa had been the only [Mage] who seemed to know everything Eldavin had been talking about. But the surprising part had been at the end.

 I was shocked to learn that the Archmages histories werent being taught along with magical theory. Necromancy is ouwed here. Yet, students, the Archmages existed. The Archmagi of Death have always been part of Wistramwith uneasy history at time, yes. But the same can be said for many schools of magic.

 Eldavin had begun talking about Azkerash. Three Terandrians and two Izrilians had actually left at that time, but even more students hade to listen. Eldavin spokethen conjured an illusion.

 Archmage Perril Chandler was once considered the greatest [Mage] of his time toe from Terandria. A bulwark against the famous Zelkyr and the strength of Golems that made the Walled Cities a feared world power as well. In lieu of this war in Terandria, I am reminded of another time the Dawn Concordat was pushed to the brink. Therethe Archmage of Death stood in front of an army of four hundred thousand and dared them to a battle.

 His illusion spells made you feel as if you were there. The ssroom changed, and desks and walls became sky and boulders. There was even smell, which no [Mage] had ever included in a spell to Trey before.

 He heard the roar of battle, panting. The Archmage stood there.

 Before he was the Necromancer, Perril Chandler looked more like a [Duelist]. It was almost like the King of Duels.

 People were vanishing into spell circles. He turned, pushing a woman gently away. He set himself against a vast army in a narrow pass of stone, where blood had already been spilled with ranks of warriors wearing gold. They cheered him.

 Chandler! Archmage!

 Eldavin stopped the moment and walked among them. The audience, disbelieving, especially those of Terandria, stared at the mans back.

 Here, he fought.

 It was like Eldavin had been there. Perhaps he had, or watched. But ranks of [Soldiers] charged as undead rose.

 Undead. Fallen warriors, skeletons, and spells exploded across both lines as the Archmage took on an entire army, forcing them to fight in this pass.

 They thought they could overwhelm him. But the golden [Knights] and the Archmage refused to give ground, and for every warrior that fen undead rose.

 The Thronebearers of Cnfer. This is the hour he was called the Undying Shield of Cnfer. This is the hour when he was truly called Archmageof Death.

 Trey watched as the man fought. He had never known it, but Perril Chandler had fought with wand and rapier in hand. He danced in the fighting, using [sh Step] to move in and run opponents through even as he cast magic.

 The Necromancer never used a de!

 One student protested. Trey had almost forgotten they were there. Eldavin watched as Perril Chandler sted a foe with ice from his wand and then parried an arrow. His eyes were nostalgic.

 Oh yes, but he did. He never had the ss, but he was considered a magical duelist on par with any other. See?

 He pointed.

 There was a golden bell. The kind of thing that people had copied, when he was still beloved.

 Undead rose and died and rose again. But it was the golden [Knights] who fought, grimly determined. Lower-level, but in one dramatic scene, an arrow shot by a high-level archer struck the Archmage and he fell against a rock. A Thronebearer held a shield over him as the Archmage clutched at the arrow.

 This was the scene that defined the battle. That those with scrying spells saw. The Thronebearers of Cnfer have always risen in dark hours the further they were pushed. When kingdom stood on the line

 They charged after that. The Archmage too. He was running out of mana. [Knight] after knight died

 But they rose. And this time it was Draug. A giant made out of the dead, which was brought down at great cost. The mortal army wavered as the Archmage fought forwards. More of the people fell around him.

 Yet. They had his back, even after they died. When it was done, the vast army was in flight, and the Archmage stood alone as reinforcements from the rear finally arrived to hold the gap.

 When it was done, no one knew quite what to say. Valeterisas eyes were shining. But some of the students seemed unsettled by the heroic ount of the Necromancer. Eldavin pped his hands, briskly.

 In those hours, on that day, I believe Perril Chandler leveled up more than any Archmage has in the century plus since. Adversity breeds strength, students. That is your lesson. It may be your death. But to strive for greatness, the peak of magic, is to walk with it. Do not think a [Warrior] risks death more than a mage.

 He nced around. Valeterisa nodded at him and he nodded back. Eldavin concluded.

 Also remember that Archmages were deeply political. Wistram seems to pretend to aloofness in this era. But Zelkyr fought for the Walled Cities. Archmage Chandler involved himself in Terandrian affairs time and time again. Both fought against the Demons of Rhir, for better or worse.

 But Grand Magusthe factions of Terandria do the same. Some of them. The Council argues over too much interference.

 A [Mage] pointed that out. Eldavin red at him.

 Young mage, I said Archmages were political. Not petty. They did not stand by and idly toss words or condemnations around. When words failed, they went to war and armies trembled in their boots. I recall one famous examplethis is ancient history, even when Zelkyr was just a bratwhere one Archmage took to the field and the enemy left a brown field in retreat. They called it the Embarrassment of Bermule

 -

 Eldavin was earmarking individuals. As of yet, the Terras faction had yet to gain Council seats, but he was willing to steal members of other factions. Some would be spies, but many woulde for what he offered.

 The best would be like Valeterisa. But the point was to have a voice in Wistrams decisions. Make allies, get Earthers.

 Eldavin was ambivalent about thatst part. But if he had people he wanted to join?

 The young [Sand Mage] with the alias was one. There were some talents in the new student body, who could actually be something with a bit of polish. The surly young man from Hellios with a [Lord]s ss and good swordsmanship was being steered into pure magic. He would be a great [Magical Swordsman]!

 Lifesand Golems.

 The half-Elf muttered to himself. Now there was proof that strong magic still remained, even in the Waning World. Potential

 He had tea with Valeterisa.

 I lost myself for ten years in attempting to uncover a lost spell theorem. I regret that. It was lucky I wasawoken.

 The woman shook her head slightly. Eldavin raised his brows.

 Indeed so. [Mages] have died, even half-Elves, caught in mental mazes for as long as a century. And if you were uncovering a theorem, subdivision of thought is a poor way to do it.

 Her eyes locked on his.

 That is not my understanding, Grand Magus. Please qualify that statement.

 He harrumphed.

 Young wArchmage. Do you really think more fractured thoughts is a good way to master a magical leap of genius? For improvingyes. For the purest quill of insight?

 She stared at him. He realized hed gone too far and coughed repeatedly into his beard.

 So Ive heard. I have never mastered the technique myself. Dangerous. Erabout good candidates for the faction.

 I have a list of candidates who would be strong [Mages] with influence. Here.

 Excellent. AhMage Telim, even?

 He added himself to the list.

 Then I will ept him without reservation. He seems quite qualified, if a bitzy. No olfactoryponent in his illusions, which I think ruins the entire experience. Smellpletes, dont you agree?

 She nodded slowly. Eyes fixed on him. But Eldavin was careful to include gaps in his knowledge. It was better to present as a qualified master of lower magical arts, broad in scope, butcking, say, the ability to create artifacts. A superior generalist, yes.

 -

 The other Archmages were interesting. Eldavin met them all. He found Valeterisa most likable, and made a few conclusions about the others which he wouldter find out if they were correct or not.

 Nailicunning, ambitious, young. Talkativeshe and he had a long lunch in which she kept pressing about Ryoka Griffin and all the things shed dug up.

 Leave the Wind Runner alone, Archmagus.

 Yes, but youre just letting her run about. Are you using her?

 She is under my protection.

 The half-Elf coldly met the Lamias re. But she was able to match him look for look. Yesmore dangerous than she seemed. Naili smiled.

 Would that be apanied by an or else, Grand Magus?

 Implicitly, my dear Archmage Nailihuaile.

 Well, your ire is certainly formidable. But we need to be united, dont we?

 He put down his cup and reached for another pastry.

 Yes we do. But my ire? Archmage Nailihuaile. You have seen my ire. Should Wistram decide to upset me, you will see what happens when I go to war. And you have not seen that.

 He met her gaze until the smile vanished.

 -

 Ironically, Viltach was more restrained. Eldavin had punched the Archmage of Terandria, but they enjoyed a quite civil discourse on spell tomes, even exchanged a few spells of Viltachs design.

 And he brought up some salient points. He was clearly ambitious as much as Nailihuaile, but saw what Teriarch did.

 The issue, as I see it, Eldavin, is that this second world may well decide to go to war. I have been asking my Earthers about history, and they have a history of aggression that would match any empire in our world.

 There is no discernible portal, Archmage.

 Eldavin aimed a pool cue at the ball; Wistram had odd priorities, like creating a billiards table before airnes. But it was quite fun. He knocked a ball into a pocket and smiled smugly. Viltach repressed a scowl; Eldavin was beating him despite both sides cheating with magic to correct their aim.

 I would say only a fool does not anticipate the danger of the possibility of a portal opening, Grand Magus. And you are no fool.

 The half-Elf nced up and slowly chalked up his pool cue, a delightful activity, before replying.

 No indeed, Archmage. And it would be my delight to talk about countermeasures. Perhaps somerge-scale antibustion spells?

 That doesnt work on all of their weapons. Are you familiar with? Perhaps you werent fully briefed by your sources. We may talk about more advanced weaponryter.

 Of course. After dinner? Most excellent.

 -

 Feor was interesting. Teriarch yed chess with him, and thought that he was the second-best yer he had ever met.

 Which meant, of course, he still took the majority of games. The half-Elf wanted to talk about home, speciesand realized he was getting nowhere with Eldavin, who refused to be nostalgic for a species he didnt have. In the end heid his cards down.

 Grand Magus, I would like to trade knowledge.

 I am sure an Archmage has much to offer a humble Grand Magus such as myself. But would I be able to reciprocate? Check, again.

 Feor grimaced.

 Much of what we have had is lost, Grand Magus. Iwould see it restored before my passing.

 Yet, no [Mage] has passed Zelkyrs test? And you do not seem to believe in attempting it.

 The Archmage of Elves hesitated as he moved a piece out of harms way.

 I do not believe it is a test made in good faith, Grand Magus. Rather, I would put my certainty inother methods. Are you aware of the [Thaumaturge] ss?

 Eldavins eyebrows shot up.

 Indeed I am. A novel way to uncover new spells given how they cast theirs. But one would need a high-level [Thaumaturge]. And that does not include spell theory.

 No, indeed, Eldavin. But I happen to know of oneand as remote as that option ishave you beheld the test? I would ce my faith in anything but that. Ah, checkmate, I believe. My first win.

 He sat back and smiled. Eldavin realized hed been getting distracted, nced down at the board, and saw he had lost.

 Intriguing. He may have excused himself after that game, purely because he had socialized enough of course, but Feor seemed closer to Valeterisa than he thought.

 -

 Verdan ckwood lifted his cup with fingers delicately spread. He inclined his head, sipped, and intoned with a calcted sigh.

 Fortify.

 The half-Elf slowly took a sip himself. He replied, after some measured thought.

 Sanctify to fortify.

 He enjoyed Verdanspany more than any other Archmages. Purely because the Duhan rituals and observances were far more refreshing to partake in than the faster politicking. After some thought, Verdan ced the cup down on the Duhans stylized tray.

 Will you rify, Grand Magus? I feel as though I have lost your meaning.

 A shame, because theyd gone back and forth with the simplistic, yet intricateyers of thought and reply for thest two hours. Eldavin nodded.

 Sanctity, Archmagus ckwood. Or do you not agree that Wistram is in need of reform?

 A cautious nod in reply.

 My passions, Grand Magus, lie with my people, who have adopted me, as much as Wistram. I believe my fellow Archmages consider my position biased, if notpromised.

 The man sat in armor, despite his advanced age, mimicking Duhans. The Archmage of Duhans watched as Eldavin lifted his brows.

 Who is not biased, Archmagus ckwood? Nor would I consider any one species inherently unfit for knowledge or cooperation. If that is the goal. What, pray, is the point of this conve?

 Security, to me. Fortify.

 The half-Elf countered.

 Sanctify, Archmagus ckwood. Who is worthy of meeting another world as equals? Wistram, as it is? Sanctify.

 -

 Archmages. Students. Eldavin.

 But there was one person he truly longed to meet in Wistram. And she seemed to be avoiding him.

 They met as the half-Elf stood at the magical barrier, the Test of Wistram. Zelkyrs legacy.

 A barrier spell keyed to five sources. In theory, you could break it down; even one of the Archmages with enough help and time.

 But you would never get that much time. Not with three Golems of such magnitudeand one basic War Golem, if a fine example of one.

 Or

 The woman made seemingly of marble strode down the deserted corridor. She had moved the instant she realized where he was going. And her body wasprimed.

 She stood behind him. He did not turn his head at first. He spoke.

 Ah. Cognita of Truestone. Zelkyrs child. I had wondered when we would meet. You have been avoiding me.

 He turned his head. The giant woman halted.

 She was tall. Her height was actually adaptive, as the rest of her was. She was Truestone, a pinnacle of her kind. A Cognizant-ss Golem.

 One who thought. One who lived. She stopped, nine feet tall, and looked down at Eldavin.

 Grand Magus Eldavin. Do youe here to take my masters test?

 Her voice was hostile. Eldavin blinked once at her. He inspected her, then pinched at his nose.

 No. But kindly tell that thing to move or I will force it to.

 He looked at the invisible Golem made of flesh. Cognita hesitated. It was looming next to him, jaws open, but the half-Elf didnt seem to even be affected by the mental invisibility. She gestured; it moved back slowly.

 Eldavin studied Zelkyrs legacy. He saw what Feor meant.

 A Golem of magma. Another, made of steel, vastly tall, perhaps thirty feet, incredibly thin, a mismatch of des and death. The invisible flesh-Golem with its noxious aurahe coughed.

 And a recement for one, a War Golem, a giant metal monster that a half-Giant would fear to fight.

 I expected more dangerous at first. Until I realized they were concealing their true natures. Quite, quite clever. But you are the fifth, arent you? To pass, one must destroy all five.

 Hemented to Cognita. The Truestone Golem stiffened.

 [Mages] had died here in the challenge without realizing what this half-Elf had. Eldavin stared at the magma golem and snorted.

 No wonder the Archmages would rather argue and sit about than attempt this. Tell me, what was Zelkyr thinking? Did he intend to stifle magic with hisst action? Or is hewaiting for something?

 He turned. And Cognita, whose face was almost always cid, who talked with Archmages as levelly as students and visitors from abroad

 Frowned.

 Grand Magus Eldavin. I remember you. You were indeed present when my master roamed Wistrams halls. You have not changed. Not one hair. Are you the Eldavin of then?

 He paused for one second.

 Golem memories. He should have at least changed his hair style or added more wrinkles. He had forgotten someone as old as heand with a perfect memorywas here. Even Feor had barely remembered him.

 I am Eldavin. Can you not sense the truth of it, child?

 Do not call me child. I am Cognita.

 He blinked again.

 But you are Zelkyrs child. And I am your senior, as old as you may be. Girl.

 He reminded her. Cognitas marble eyes fixed on him. Her porcin form began to

 Change. Into something harder. TruestoneEldavin blinked again.

 Strange. He had thought she would seek him out and they would have a convivial talk about the old days after they had looked at each other. But this?

 If you do note here to take the test, Grand Magus, I will request you leave. This ce is not meant for [Mages] to linger in.

 I respectfully decline.

 The Golems stirred. Eldavin never took his eyes off Cognita. And her face was thunderous now.

 You refuse?

 I decline. Is that a rule of your test or is it your request?

 It is my determination.

 The Dragon slowly spread his arms.

 Then, I request you alter your determination for me, Miss Cognita. I am not here to take your test. If you fear I am learning somethingor preparing a great magic? I am not. You can see that. Nor would I need to. I know the nature of each Golem. I have seen their kind. I am not here to take your test. That is not why I returned to Wistram.

 So you say.

 The woman shifted. Eldavin was still puzzled. Why was she so wary? Shed changed to anti-magic armor. And she was set like she was about to charge him. He looked at her

 Then his perception wavered. He saw himself, as she might see him.

 A half-Elf from a time when magic had been stronger. Coming at this time, with other powerful [Mages] to Wistram when Eartha new threat or opportunityhad arisen.

 The half-Elf faltered. His heart stung him. Oh no. Cognita hesitated as he clutched at his chest for a second.

 She thinks I am here to destroy her. This child thinks

 Fear. That was what he saw. The half-Elfs head rose. And Cognita saw a strange emotion in his eyes. One she had seldom seen even before she had been given this long duty.

 Pity?

 Miss Cognita. Noshould I say, Cognita Amerwing

 The Golems in the room shifted.

 That was Zelkyrsst name. Eldavin went on.

 I am not here to challenge Zelkyrs might. I am not here to do battle with his children, least of all what might be thest of his three. Oldest, andst. I came, hoping to ask you

 He hesitated. But the Golem was hostile and he had already mistepped, by ident. She had seen his magical acumen. So he said it.

 is Zelkyr not still alive? If so, will you not ask him to return?

 The Truestone Golem made no move. But for a secondthe Golems of Wistram stuttered about their duties. She looked at the half-Elf. And she was certain.

 You are not a Grand Magus. Who are you?

 Will you not allow me entry?

 If you attempt it, you will die.

 She warned him. The half-Elf lookeddistraught.

 Child.

 Do not call me that.

 Cognita had not spoken so forEldavins eyebrows drew together. He was trying to be understanding. But he was still a Dragon.

 Young woman. I advise you not to take that tone with me. I walked this very ground before your master was born. He was a strong [Archmage]. But you can see how this ident is curtailing magic. Does the emergence of another world not change your opinions?

 The Truestone Golem looked at this stranger. Conflicted. How long had it been since someone asked that? Yes, she had opinions. But even she had forgotten that she had once exercised hers.

 Then. But he came from a time before even then.

 Grand Magus, my masters order remains. What is there to speak of?

 Spoken like a good child. And you were, werent you?

 She shook with the shock of that statement. Eldavins old eyes were pitying again. He shook his head.

 Time has changed, Cognita of Wistram. I do not believeno, I know that Zelkyr would not have created this test tost nearly a hundred and what, a hundred and fifty years? He would have reced that Golem. Something has gone wrong.

 One of the Golems wastwitchingCognita stared at it and it stopped. She thoughtthen fell back to a response.

 I will not answer spection as to what lies above.

 Eldavin tugged at his beard, vexed by her obstinate response.

 Something is wrong. Perhaps I can help. Or not. Either waythis is a harsh request for a sentient being. I have known Djinni set to simr tasks. I wished to speak with you in friendship, not this way, young woman. Zelkyr

 Archmagus Zelkyr set me to this task, Eldavin of Izril. He will decide when I am to be relieved. Only his words, no one elses.

 And is he alive?

 The word cracked around the room. Silence resulted. Eldavin looked at Cognita. He took a breath; controlled his temper! He exhaled, slowly.

 Even so. Acknowledge for a moment, Miss Cognita, that this order is in error.

 My master does not make errors.

 The half-Elfs left eye twitched. He couldnt let this one go.

 What a ridiculous statement.

 Cognita drew herself up. That was the wrong thing to say. Her eyes shed ruby-red. Literally.

 Do you insult the Archmage of Golems?

 I do! Or at least, I argue that he was not without w. Even Dragons are not without w!

 The half-Elfs bold retort in front of the mightiest Golems present astonished her. He strode forwards and shoved a finger up at her.

 A dutiful daughter can go too far, young woman! You are not the Truestone Constructs who rebelled of old, but you would do well to be more independent than a Sentientno, Autonomous-ss Golem!

 Cognita reflexively gasped. It was such an old insult that shereacted

 She hadnt heard that kind of insult sincebut the half-Elf wasnt done. His ire was piqued, and he had a barbed tongue when he was mad.

 This entire test is a stupid idea, even if Zelkyr had just popped upstairs for a week of study! Its selfish, close-mindedwhat was it for, to stifle the other Archmages from getting a head start? Theres plenty of room up there and danger even for every Archmage over thest thousand years! What about Archmage Chandler? Would you have blocked him?

 That question is moot. Archmage Chandler is dead.

 Hah

 He caught himself and both stared at each other. Eldavin rushed on.

 the point is that this is a ridiculous, power-grabbing move. Petty.

 I warn you to retract your insult.

 Her eyes narrowed. She loomed. He snapped.

 Retract? Petty is what I meant! Drakes can be the most childish, petty creatures in existence! And it seems Zelkyr never rose to be more than the average Drake, in the end!

 Enough!

 Her body turned to shing lightning. A gemEldavin threw up a shield as thunder boomed. He stumbled back.

 Cognita nearly advanced on him, but held herself back. Her body was shining crystal now. She pointed a finger at the half-Elf.

 You will not nder my master! He was an [Archmage]! Greatest of his kind! Without w or failure!

 Her wrath would have cowed even the Archmages. A being of her magnitudethe half-Elf looked up at her.

 Without fear. Just a bit of sadness. And that stopped Cognita. He shook his head.

 No, he was not. He was a mortal man, child. You speak as if I was not there. I remember him. We both knew he failed at times. Or do you forget what happened to the first of your sisters at Rhir?

 He remembered. He had lived those times, same as her. That made Cognita hesitate. She listened, furious, hungry, as he went on.

 Zelkyr, greatest of his kind? He was a genius, yes. You are shaped by that vast intellect and imagination. But also, his w. That he left more genius than not in his creations is his greatest legacy.

 Youcannot say this.

 More emotion than she had felt in a century was flooding through the Truestone Golem. What was this stranger? He waved a finger at her.

 Can I not? When did words be anathema to Wistram? See the issue, young woman? Listen to me, Cognita Amerwing. I see two truths here, and know not which it is. But I present to you both as I see it: if Zelkyr is alive, then this is a terrible, merciless, stupid and thankless charge put upon you.

 He pointed at the waiting Golems.

 He is wounded, or in need! Or has abandoned the world as Archmage Valeterisa did. Either way, you are more than a sentinel. You are Truestone, and you must choose to be more than this.

 He tapped the ground with one foot. Then looked up at her.

 The other answer is that he is dead. In which case, you protect a dead Drakes final orders. But you are then free. And you must be more. Which is it? Which?

 His words echoed in this ce. And they, at least, were nostalgic. Easiest of all the things he had said so far.

 Countless [Mages] had stood here and told her the exact same thing. Even the Necromancer had urged her to

 But even her masters old friend had not shifted her. Cognita drew herself up. She knew the truth of it. And held it within her as she replied.

 My masters will remains his will. That is all I will say, Magus. Nothing will sway me.

 She felthollowly triumphant at being able to reply thusly. And what would the Grand Magus do? Rage? Insult her master?

 He looked at her, and exhaled. Cognita waited. And Eldavin scared the hell out of her.

 So thats how it is. I see.

 He shook his head. The Truestone Golem hesitated.

 What do you mean?

 Thats my answer. Well then, young woman. I think we had both better cool down. I hope we can speak at another time

 He began to walk around her. She blocked him, reflexively.

 You do not know the answer. I did not give it to you.

 He eyed her, almost amused.

 Child, I hate to tell you thisbut you just did.

 She stared at him. It was a bluff. It had to be.

 That is impossible.

 No feature of hers had changed. She was impossible to read; even the Archmage of Death had asked her to know her feelings. Eldavin just snorted.

 Oh, impossible. You say that in Wistram? For shame.

 He prodded her in the stomach since he couldnt reach any higher. The Truestone Golem recoiled. Eldavin snorted as he walked past her.

 I know how your kind behaves, young woman. I told you, Im old. Even stone has a tell. When you are ready to be reasonable,e find me.

 He walked off. Cognita stared at his back. She raised her fist.

 She had never wanted to hit an old half-Elf as much as now. And Feor had been in power for nearly eighty years. She slowly let him leave the floorthen walked out of the room. She found a room and punched through one of the walls.

 -

 Eldavin was upset after the confrontation with Cognita. He hadnt expected to be soemotional. Maybe hed given too much away, said too much. But it was like meeting a Djinni.

 He sat in his rooms, trying to control his breathing, analyzing the event as impartially as he could.

 And that was when it hit him. All of it. It came together in a moment of perfect rity and genius.

 His issue with Wistram, trying to shape it through his faction, the time limitand now this.

 The Dragon sat back andughed. He went over, grabbed some cookies, all the gifts hed been plied with, and began stuffing his face. He felt a weight lift off his shoulders.

 That was how to do it. He recalled what Ryoka had begged of him.

 Be active, be present. But halfway. Interfere, but not fully, but do it.

 He had agreed with her, which is why he hade here. Because he could not sit after being provoked. Nowhe saw the way forwards.

 Cognita of Truestone was the most extraordinary being in Wistram, bar only himself of course. And people treated her like a glorified servant, or a simple guardian.

 She was Truestone! Those thering Archmages? The Council? Dust,pared to her!

 She was perhaps thest of her kind, and if not, one of thest. Her people had been created, risen, and been destroyed. She had been created and be the first once more.

 He knew them all. All the old names, that people had forgotten ever existed.

 The Djinni were enved. Their children, the Jinn, had been wiped away.

 The Harpies had lost theirnds and hope.

 The Giants were all but gone.

 And the Dragons time was done. Thest Dragonlord of me sat there, chewing on macaroons until one got caught in his mortal throat. He hacked it up and stared at the thing trying to kill him.

 Thest of us should not be so petty and end so.

 He informed the macaroon, the room, the world. The Dragon rose. He stood, and left his rooms. He had work to do.

 -

 Archmage Viltach opened his door as Eldavin stood in front of it. The Grand Magus looked a bit embarrassed.

 Archmage, I have a confession to make. Im working on a new project, and I realize Ive left some of my reagents at home. Could I borrow some mithril dust for runework?

 Eldavin had tried to get some, but been informed the [Merchants] werent stocking it asmonly as in the old days. So hed gone inquiring. This was the [Mage] equivalent of asking for a cup of sugar.

 Of course.

 Viltach was only too happy to do a favor for Eldavin. He proudly found a vial.

 How much do you need? I have anything else you might need

 Could I trouble you for, oh, four pounds of processed magicore?

 Viltachs fingers slipped as he opened one of his cases containing the valuable materials. Normal magicore? Fine. But processed? Four p

 Of course. And its quite good. Elemental-less, of course. 99% purity!

 He heard a snort from the doorway. Eldavin folded his arms.

 Everythings 99%, Archmagus. Whats the actual purity?

 Excuse me?

 The man froze with his hands on a jar, heavily sealed. Eldavin repeated himself.

 The actual purity? Im talking the numbers after the decimal point.

 The numbers after? Viltachs mouth opened and closed.

 Erzero?

 Zero?

 Eldavin looked outraged. He muttered.

 You dont pre-purify before using it? Well, fine. Ill take six pounds then. Er

 He saw Viltachs face and caught himself. Eldavins eyes flickered. Then he smiled.

 not that I dont use 70%, er, pure magicore myself from time to time! Its just that this isthe most intricate project. Cant leave it to chance. Thank you.

 He took the six pounds of pure magicore. Viltach gulped at the small fortune as Eldavin shut the door. Then he hurried to check if?

 -

 99% purity. Hah! Might as well use sawdust.

 Eldavin grumpily sprinkled some mithril dust hed run through a few purification spells afterwards. He eyed the rune work and decided he was going to need a semi-contained world to practice this on. Shame he couldnt make Truestone Golems himself, but hed do tests.

 It was going to take a long time, even for a Dragon. Wellnot if he really worked at it. He grumblingly began to work on the forms, wishing he could consult with his spellbooks.

 He wasnt that good at this kind of magic, and this was going to push even him. He wished he had even one damn Skill, but no

 Even so. This was the n. This was true magic. And it would be his gift, from one of thest to the other.

 Cognita. This was how he changed Wistram, and the world for the better. Wait, Ryoka Griffin. He just had to cast one spell and then he would let Wistram be. One spell.

 The Dragon smiled to himself.

 He was going to set her free.

 Authors Note: I am write too much. Thisst part I thought would be uh, about 3,000 words less. However! I hope you enjoyed the two half-chapters I put together because neither one was quite long enough on its own.

 Goblin slice-of-life and Dragon slice-of-life arent like Erin slice-of-life. But its all hopefully fun to read, informative, and so on and so on.

 Im not making sense. Im tired, and Ill see you in the next chapter! For now, Ill leave you with that and wish you a happy read! Until next time!

 Eldavin, Tkrn, and Frozen Erin by /peekay

 

 

 

 Saliss Box by Midas!

 

 Tkrn Toot, Cat Revi, Halo Numbtongue and more by /lechatdemon

 Stash with all the TWI rted art:https://sta.sh/222s6jxhlt0

17kNovel

Book 8: Chapter 6: RT