Interlude Perspective and Past_The Wandering Inn

Interlude Perspective and Past

 [The Wandering Inn is on its monthly break until October 16th for Patreons, when the edited chapter is due to be written! It may be dyed or the 1st Draft released then, and the edited versionter. See you then!]

 The worst thing that could happen hase to pass. We are damned. This is a disaster in our war; I would even venture to say this may be the end of us.

 The grim voice spoke, in thends of the dead. A pronouncement so dark, so at odds with hope. But thenthe brighter anything burned, the longer the shadows. Every [Witch] knew that.

 Not that they were here, among this gathering. Nor was the girl who brought true sunlight into thisnd. Erin Solstice, the living ghost among the deadno.

 She sat there, on the steps of Khelts pce. Right over there. Doing something that looked suspiciously like recreating cotton candy and trying to tempt Xarkouth, the Last Dragonlord of Stars with it.

 However, it was not always about Erin. True, part of the deads concerns revolved around her, but they did not stop plotting or thinking out of her sight. Thus, a smaller conference took ce as one member of the group gave their dire pronouncement.

 Nerrhavia of Nerrhavias Fallen spoke, and it was a motley crew of ghosts who heard her words. Not Califor. Not Khelta of Khelt; she was ever busy. Rather, Nerrhavia had gathered the ghosts who would listen to her. She did not have even Erin Solstices ear whenever she wanted, and that rankled.

 However, she did have a contact. A friend of Erin Solstice.

 Cawe. And Gerial. She had towed him along, and since the great ghosts were in deep deliberation over the news, he came with. They were friends. Low-level friends, who found themselves consorting with legends.

 That Cawe was here was simple enough. Nerrhavia stood there, legend of Cawes homnd, albeit a dark one. The [Pickpocket] knew the ghostly ruler was being kind and even ttering to her in order to get to Erin. Wellshe liked it.

 Nerrhavia didntck for important people to speak to, even without being the most important ghost present. Queen Merindue of Nerrhavias Fallen often deigned to bear the old tyrantspany, despite being at odds. That was, ironically, because they shared interests. One had helped depose the others reign and dismantle the ancient empire. But it was still the samend, the same people, in a sense. They were Stitchfolk, and keenly aware that all the power herey in the Necrocracy of Kheltand Erin Solstice, in a sense.

 You speak like the six have made some grand move. When, in fact, we have received the greatest hope of all, Nerrhavia. Do not be dramatic.

 Nerrhavia turned, and her braided hair of this vision sparkled, each braid banded by a single ring of power. Her eyes shed behind eye-shadow and painted makeup, and her dress was the very same she had once demanded cut out of the shade of her throne and stitched together.

 Dramatic? I am never dramatic, Merindue. And if I amit is not now. I do not exaggerate. If you had but the tenth of my least-favored [Magistrate]s wisdom, you would see it clearly. Or do I not speak the truth, General Ignoyeithe?

 She turned and nodded slightly to one of Chandrars legends. And againthey had lots. However, the [General] who had scorched earth across all five continents, once won a battle with a hundred-to-one odds, and hadmanded [Soldiers] in his first victory as a boy of eight?

 Some respect due. He took attendance, along with some of the less-popr ghosts, those who had served Nerrhavia in life, and crucially, a [ver] of Roshal.

 Not thepany Cawe wanted to keep, although this ghost was old and had reigned in Roshal long before she had even been bornmillenia agobut it was Nerrhavias will. Because if you denied them a seat at any table, they were your enemies. And like it or not, they were allies here.

 Do you see, Grand Emir? General? Would one of you exin to Merindue, my able sessor?

 Nerrhavia paced back and forth, sneering at Merindue, and turning her gaze to Gerial and Cawe. She fluttered her fingers at both.

 I trust you are not bored? I thank you, Cawe, my subject, for attending me during this busy hour.

 Of course, Your Majesty.

 Please, you shall call me Nerrhavia. And if ever a way is found, I shall have your name rendered unto Nerrhavias honored families, posthumously.

 Cawe fluttered her wings with embarrassment and Gerial nudged her. She winked at him. However, the Silver-rank adventurer was nothing but approving.

 Now theres a generous client.

 The Grand Emir rose slowly and sighed. He was old and refused to change, much like Drevish. The Garuda opened his cracked beak.

 I see it inly, Queen Nerrhavia. For did I not use the same ploy? The same tactics? It may not be intentional, but now there is a scroll that presents hope to each ghost, that they might live again. Unity? The Dragon has shattered it among us, if Khelts growing power had not already.

 Exactly. More fool, he. Yet I sense desperation from Terandria too. They have no mortal agents. We do, though the path is long. But that is not why I summoned you.

 Nerrhavias eyes shed. Merindue sat up, eyes flicking back to the gathering. She was sharp, but Nerrhavia was quick. Proof positive?

 It was bare moments after Xarkouth hadnded and news had spread of the scroll. Already, the most savvy ghosts saw what would happen and were drawing sides.

 Cawe wondered if Nerrhavia wanted to live herself. However, the tyrant of old seemed to have a different goal, or one more subtle.

 You see, that youe, and I call youI do not call you friends, for we never broke bread or shared water. I only call you allies, and the enemy oblivion. Even now, I tell you that we must, the whole of us, put aside ambitions to live. Cawe, you must speak to Erin Solstice and we to our factions. This must not splinter.

 She put a hand into her palm, delicately. Some of the ghosts murmured.

 No designs on life, Nerrhavia?

 An amused [Martial Artist] murmured. Nerrhavias eyes shed again. That wasnt metaphor, either; little glowing shards of light in her irises told you exactly how peeved she was. All the time.

 Do you think I am talking lightly? I wish to live with every fiber of my being, but there is one scroll, and too many hands grasping. And I have not the means to grasp any harder. Not here. What I am telling you is that this is the thread that will snap, and drag us all into defeat! So yes. My ambition?

 She made a plucking gesture, as if drawing something from her heart, and blew on it.

 I will have you all make that same pact.

 It was an impressive speech. What made even Merindue hesitate wasit sounded like Nerrhavia was serious. And yetyes, remember the tyrant. Remember her acts and evil that led them to denounce her, and celebrate her demise.

 Also remember she was devious enough to rule an empire for nearly a thousand years, and that she did not want to die twice. Erin and Khelt could use worse allies, even of convenience.

 Then, your goal. I can only assume it focuses on Khelt, or Erin Solstice. Given herpanionswhy the girl? Khelt has the means to utilize our knowledge and might. She is far from her body, and only a single girl.

 I expected better of you, Grand Emir. Only a girl? Look. She sits there, in thepany of the great ghosts. She had the sword. She had the light. Something turns on her. I would count her as a great ally or enemy had I lived. I will bet on one person to be a vessel for my will. And it will be her, not a scroll.

 Nerrhavia nced at Cawe and Gerial, significantly. Then turned.

 And we must focus, because I believe this scroll is a great opportunity, chaos or not. Khelt is needed. We are all needed, and greater deeds must be done.

 Greater than driving those six from Chandrar?

 Gerial muttered. Nerrhavia nodded.

 General?

 Ignoyeithe straightened. He nodded at Nerrhavia, and spoke.

 I have been thinking. It is hard to know the exact nature of our foe, even with Erin Solstices exnation. Yetit seems to me we havecked a perspective on this conflict, strange as it might be. We see it as a predation of sorts. Perhaps survival. A return? This is spection, from our limited talks with Dragons and knowledge gleaned. Yet I look at it like a [Strategist]. There is a certainty in any battle, no matter how oddly fought. Simplyit is this.

 He raised two fingers, and made a simple fist with the other. He gestured, touching fingers to fist.

 Attack. And location.

 Not attack and defense, surely?

 Merindue was amused. Ignoyeithe shook his head.

 Defense is a form of attack. Perhaps the word is simply conflict. Supplies, movement, intelligence, feintseven magic boils down to two elements. Where the attackes, and the nature itself.

 Your meaning?

 The [General] floated past them. He stared out into the distance of dead Chandrar, but what he stared at wasthe reflection of now. The many changingndscapes of then. His words came slowly.

 This is a war. Consider our foes. Six. Able to walk this world, perhaps exiled as we are. Trapped. However, I suspect that they have a way back, just like Erin Solstice. Perhaps scrolls of their own, or simr methods. Now consider their nature. They are all anathema. I have felt such revulsion only a few times. I do not know the Crelers which came after me; but the Soulless of Rhir? The things thate from beyond, that Drath hunts? AndActelios Ssh itself. These all provoke the same universal hatred in my being. Do you understand?

 His audience looked at each other. Gerial shuddered. What in the name of dwhat was a Soulless of Rhir? Some horror before Crelers?

 We are all united against them. [ver]. [Rebel]. Garuda, Human, ghost. That is not in dispute, [General].

 The Grand Emir nodded. Ignoyeithe made a palm-bow gesture.

 No, Emir. To my point, then? They are surely reviled in the living world. The one girl who lives hates them as much as we! So this is not a war between the dead and dead things. This is a war that we must regard as all versus them. Andthey have attacked in the first theatre of war. The first ce which, if they conquer, bes a beachhead for terrible victories to follow.

 Nerrhavia was nodding. Cawe was struggling to follow the metaphysics of what the [General] was seeing, but the Grand Emir had it.

 Thend of the dead?

 Yes. If it lies empty, then each dead person bes fuel for them. It bes, perhaps, an unassable ground to attack the living world. They will not know from where the danger stems! They will not be able to fight back!

 The [General] gazed around.

 Queen Nerrhavia is correct. This is no time for disunity. The dead must aid the living.

 But how? Short of Khelt

 The ghosts were frustrated, galvanized by the repositioning of this war. If this was the first battleGerial was feeling for the sword he didnt have.

 In times past, it was possible. [Witches] harnessed spirits. Even I had ghosts bound to serve me. Whether they were the ones here?

 Nerrhavia frowned mightily.

 There are ways to touch the living. Usually, ways that the living must enable. But surelyif we could be an army of ghosts? All we can give is knowledge, and Khelt is an unpleasant repository for our power. I do not wish to make them the new rulers of our world.

 The Grand Emir nodded, although General Ignoyeithe was upset by the attitude. However, even Merindue remembered that Khelt had once been an expanding kingdom, and aggressive.

 Thus, Erin Solstice, Nerrhavia?

 The womans face twisted.

 Yes. But she does not want to know how to acquire power. None that I could give her.

 Like what? Draining ten thousand men of life the hard way?

 Nerrhavia went over to try and chase Merindue off.

 Thou wretched and inferior sessor! We must pool our knowledge. Surely there is more we can use? Is there any message Roshal might heed, if Fetohep of Khelt spoke it?

 The Grand Emir was tellingly silent. When the ghosts looked at him, he sighed.

 That we do not see eye-to-eye with Khelt, that we have been insulted, is in, Queen Nerrhavia. The same for the young woman who will heed none of our words. Yet you yourself are as charismatic as you are convincing. We do not wish to end. Roshal will reconvene. Now. Permit me a time to give your words to them.

 He strode away without another word. Cawe red at him, but Nerrhavia looked satisfied for a moment, before concealing the expression. Merindue hovered over and murmured quietly.

 Did it work? You clearly aimed to sway them.

 I hope so. It would be just like the [vers] of Roshal to hold back a trick. Indeed, among the many who tried to cheat death who remainI have tried to make a list, but only a few Dragons, perhaps a few surly fools in Terandria, thest Giants

 Regis Reinhart?

 That ancient ghost? Perhaps. Perhapsnow that you say it, perhaps, but I assumed he would be eaten with the rest. Unless he is like the Quarass? But Roshal, indeed.

 Nerrhavia looked at the Grand Emir. Her eyes glittered like dark diamonds.

 After all. If there were any lot to hoard another scroll of rebirth, or doorway to deathit would be them. Now, to work. I have made my oath. Let us restore sense to this rabble.

 Two [Queens] swept onwards. Was this a war, like General Ignoyeithe imed? A game of chess? If so, they were more useful than not. Otherwise

 And there the greatest chess yer, living or dead, sat, happily giving a dead Dragon a sweet tooth. Sometimes there was a central actor to a story, a heroine of the moment. But it was a poor stage if they were alone.

 Speaking of Dragons imbibing sugarwell, it was a peculiar thing. But as Reynold, [Combat Butler], driver for Magnolia Reinharts famous carriage, looked on, he couldnt actually remember if Eldavinthat was, Teriarch, that was, Eldavinhad a sweet tooth or not.

 He hadnt known Eldavin was Teriarch, of course, but he had been let in on the secret so to speak after being saved from the [Assassins] ambush. He was one of three people to know, and considered it a great honor.

 Almost as much as being granted the magical legs. Reynold was no expert on the exact cost of the artifacts, but it was probably more than he had ever been paid or was technically worth. Thanks to them, he could walk.

 He was a grateful man. If he chose, he could think on the reasons why he needed the legs to begin with. He could think of his dear friend, Sacra. He could thinkthey were so cold.

 His legs, that was. He could feel them, connected to his flesh-and-blood legs. A magical bonding at the joining site. But be it some error or just bad design, they were always a bit cold, since no blood flowed through them.

 Reynold didnt think of that. If he did, surely, it had to be in the context that all that he had lost, or seen losthad to matter. That Magnolia Reinhart had a worthy dream. If not? Then it was for nothing.

 He was at least important enough now to have knowledge second only to Ressa herself. Reynold suspected it was Magnolia and Ressas way of repaying his loyalty. For instancehe stared at the two Dragons.

 Did Teriarch have a sweet tooth? He didnt know, because the half-Elf had visited sporadically, and before Reynold was employed as well. Andwell, because Magnolia Reinhart made you not notice even a [Glutton]s appetite for sugar.

 Incidentally, she was currently engaged in a quiet screaming match with Lyte du Marquin, in a [Silenced] corner of the ballroom. Reynold saw Wall Lord Ilvriss being harangued by his sister and mother for simr exnations. He was impressed; the Drake calmly thrust his uncle in the way of his family, and ran for it.

 Now theres a fellow whos led a battlefield rear action more than once. Commendably fast retreat. No hesitation.

 Reynold saw Ilvriss pass by the two Dragons. Now here was his chance to observe, and Reynold had to own that, scouting for enemy [Assassins] and [Spies] as he was doing even now, despite that fellow from Manus, and Magnolias own security cordon, he couldnt take his eyes off the Dragons.

 They fascinated him, but he was careful not to give away that he was watching. The one with blue scalesRafaemaand the one with brown-green, Cire? Different! She was taller, older, and more snappy, and he was a happy-go-lucky scamp. But that wasnt the fascinating thing.

 It was how they reacted to stress. Cire was glued to the First Gardener, checking on Mivifa, going back to Rafaema, peering at Lytemaking sure everyone he knew was alright. By contrast? Once shede down, out of the rain and tremendous hole in the clouds shed created, Rafaema had taken stock of the situation, then marched back to the buffet table.

 She was currently clearing out every dessert with a hint of sugar in it, and this being Magnolias party, there was a lot. Even soReynold eyed Rafaema.

 Lady Reinhart had a secret to her sugar consumption. It didnt touch her, which was how she managed to eat so much without her heart stopping. The Lightning Dragon? She just ate it, and Magnolia Reinhart herself would have apuded anyone who could eat

 Fivesixpounds of ice cream.

 Reynold shook his head. Extraordinary. And it wasnt like that was her only option. Rafaema was going for the sweets, and her minders looked worried shed puke. But then, the one called Ferris had taken a tremendous beating and was recovering.

 Reynold.

 The [Butler] didnt jump. But he had a hand on his longsword, even though only Ressa could have crept up on him like that. He nodded to her as she appeared. The [Maid] turned to Reynold, inquisitive.

 All clear?

 He nodded.

 No more killers I could find. Numbers 1-7 are on patrol.

 Naturally.

 There had been a bad opening in their security, which allowed the criminal mob to get at Miss Lyte. Theyd pulled their attention back to watch Magnolia, and the only people on guard-duty had been forced to choose between the dignitaries and Lyte.

 Is it simply Oteslias underworld?

 Reynold murmured, covering his lips, on the pretense of smoothing his mustache. Ressa grimaced.

 For a measure of simply? They have Faces. I want you to post more watchers on Lytes residence.

 Watchers or ready to intervene? I must say, her guardians have done a rather poor job so far.

 By which, Reynold meant Saliss of Lights, the Gentlemen Callers, and, to some extent, Wall Lord Ilvriss. Ressa growled.

 Theyre not professionals.

 She meant as they were. Reynold nodded.

 And are weunching a counter-offensive?

 No.

 But

 Ressa folded her arms. She was unhappy, but she twisted a ring and Reynold caught a thought on the linked band on each of their fingers.

 Its the damned Dragon. Oteslias afraid to move on them because whoevers in charge clearly knows. Magnolia does not want to reveal she knows or get entangled in it. Even the First Gardener would slit all our throats if she suspected we knew.

 Ah.

 Now thatplicated things. Reynold grimaced.

 But we haveour Grand Magus. Surely that might persuade them?

 If he wasnormalIm sure that would be an option.

 Aha.

 Reynold wanted to say something un-butler-y. It was a bad situation all around. He didnt know how far from normal Grand Magus Eldavin was behaving, but given that Magnolia and Ressa were worried

 Then were collecting signatures? Stay on n and leave for Wistram as soon as possible?

 Almost. If we leave, well have to avoid Zeres. The Velistrane will pick us up when that urs.

 Not myself via carriage?

 It seemed to Reynold they could travel onnd just as fast north to a safe harbor, but Ressa borated.

 No. That is because you will head north when we depart Oteslia. At that time, you will go via carriage to the ancestral manor. And you will collect a few household trinkets.

 They had been strolling left as they walked, circumnavigating the buzzing Oteslian ballroom, all eyes on Lyte or the golden [Knights] who hade and knelt towards her, or looking at her ring. Reynold nearly mmed into a decorative pir.

 A few household?

 He turned a shade paler, despite himself. Ressa smiled thinly.

 Magnolia has forgotten some of her travel supplies. We will need them for where were heading next.

 If you didnt know what they were talking about, it sounded perfectly innocuous. If you saw Reynolds face, youd suspect it was not.

 If you were Reynold? You would have understood that, while Magnolia Reinhart and Ressa headed for the Reinharts capital warship, he would run a fetch errand and meet them at sea, no doubt.

 Carrying every doomsday and armageddon-ss artifact he could tear out of Regis Reinharts possession.

 There was a contingency. Reynold knew what could be traded to make the ghost give up items, as well as Magnolia iming her birthright. But that kind of weaponry was a step up from the items Magnolia had requested to use against the Goblin Lord. Just what did she intend to do when she met Grand Magus Eldavin?

 Even Ressa didnt know. But sheid one more piece of information on Reynold.

 Thats just a bit of servant gossip. Keep it in mind when we leave.

 Naturally, Miss Ressa. The other?

 Prepare yourself for a trip. Lady Reinhart has, in her infinite wisdom, decided to split some of her gifts that are Oteslia-bound. She is going to get every signatory she can before leaving. You are going to present some gifts to the Gnolls.

 Reynolds head snapped up.

 But Zeres army is outside. I cant imagine theyll be keen to let Lady Reinhart leave, the statement we made at the gates or not! Ressa, I cant guarantee her safety.

 Ressa gave Reynold a happy, sympathetic smile. And that chilled him to the bone worse than any scowl.

 No. Which is why she wont be going.

 She patted him on the shoulder. Reynold took a moment to let that sink in. He pressed some cool fingers to his brow.

 About my vacation

 After this. Bonuses, as well.

 Very good, Miss Ressa. Might I request a change in shifts?

 Why?

 I have the pressing need to find a drink.

 Ressa thought about it.

 Granted.

 The [Butler] nodded smartly, gave her a bow, and stepped lively over to the nearest avable drinks. No good, cheap beer or ale. But the fancy stuff did it, and maybe they were serving Firebreath Whiskey, an impropriety to the asion or not?

 He found something almost as good; Hoshill Champagne. Now, your average champagne was slightly less alcoholic than wine. Of course, they also served it in tiny sses. But Hoshill Champagne was a particr type of the stuff that was made from grapes. All kinds of grapes, but grown on Hoshill.

 It was a ce in Izril with higher-than-average gravity. Reynold didnt know the details. Someone had been mucking around with physics, as usual. The end result was a particr kind of grape that took to a stronger, more concentrated drink, even after fermentation.

 Strong stuff, which they served in what Reynold had always thought of as a nobles version of a shot ss. It was a fluted, fancy, thin ss, practically pencil-wide and almost as long.

 He calmly walked around the table, to where one of the staff was serving drinks.

 Excuse me, Miss. Would you mind if I?

 She recognized him as being in the employ of the caterer, and nodded.

 Of course. Do you need some drinks?

 She offered the tray, which had little holsters to prevent the sses from tilting. Reynold adjusted his suitpels.

 I shall requisition what is needed, thank you very much.

 She nodded. The Drake watched as Reynold carefully picked out an appropriate vessel. Which was the biggest cup he could find. Then he expertly popped the cork on another bottle, filled the entire cup up to the brim, and took it down.

 Her mouth opened wide with awe. Reynold sighed. Now that hit you well and truly proper. One of the other guests, none other than Wall Lord Aldonss of Manus, stared at Reynold. He checked his tiny ss, then tried to copy the [Butler]. He took down two mouthfuls of the Hoshill Champagne and realized hed made a mistake when the world tilted forty five degrees. Reynold just poured himself a second cup.

 Someone else drinking hard was also causing a scene. Two rather shabby fellows were clinking cups of wine. They would have fit in, normallyexcept that both had scorched clothing, dried blood all over their scales and fur, and they had just been seenying waste to everyone within reach.

 Not today, then, Ratici. We nearly died.

 Nearly, Wilovan, nearly. Heres to nearly. Was that the aforementioned boon I saw on you?

 Ratici, it was.

 What did it feel like?

 Reynolds head turned in time to see a Gnoll with a battered top-hat exhale. Wilovan looked at Ratici gravely.

 It felt like I was ait was like being filled up with light andwhen I saw that ring glowing, I thought

 He hesitated, and took a drink. Then he shook his head and spoke, solemnly.

 It felt like I was a decent man. With a hat made of gold, and a knighthood.

 All that.

 The Drake looked wistful and envious. Wilovan touched his chest, as if he could still feel it.

 Humbling.

 Do you think youll level, then, Wilovan? It seems to me a fellow might hope for a bit of good news ere he lies down his head.

 Ah, Ratici, that would be asking. That wouldbut a fellow does hope.

 Excuse me.

 At this point Reynold had to break in. The two Gentlemen Callers turned, and gave Reynold a supercilious look. He saw them recognize him. On two levels.

 First, as two men who saw someone else who was dangerous. And Reynold had to ownhe wasnt sure if he was the kind of danger they were. His magical legs and recent levelswell, hed dare any group if he was sitting on the pink carriages driver seat.

 But the second way they recognized him was, more importantly, as another man with the ability to dress himself. They gave his suit a nod. He gave their battle-worn ensembles the same. Ratici went to adjust his vest.

 Good day to you, sir. I hope were not disturbing the environs, such as it were? Been a rough day.

 Not at all, gentlemen. Allow me to wee you to Lady Reinharts gathering, in the name of Lady Reinhart herself.

 The two exchanged a nce. Ratici coughed into a fist.

 Thats a tall thing for a fellow to offer, sir. Wed be happy, but Im not sure thats yours to give.

 Reynold gestured at his garb.

 I am, in fact, Lady Reinharts personal [Butler] and driver. I can happily assure you that you two are wee. Especially in light of you keeping Miss Lyte alive. Believe me, Lady Reinhart respects acts like that.

 They all looked over to where Magnolia Reinhart and Lyte were still arguing. By now, Ressa had included a visual filter, but Reynold, and, he suspected, Ratici at least could see right through it. Magnolia was sshing tea at Lyte, and the [Princess] was pointing at the Thronebearers, clearly shouting get rid of them!.

 Well, thank you, sir.

 Wilovan broke the silence and raised his wine ss. Only then did he see Reynold was drinking.

 Is it customary for the help to drink? Not that wed tell, sir.

 Im actually off-duty. Can I interest either of you two gentlemen in a fine Hoshill Champagne?

 Ive never really tried the stuff myself. I cant say Im in the mood for social drinking.

 Ah, then you will be pleased to note Wall Lord Aldonss condition, Mister Ratici. Two gulps.

 Reynold expertly poured two full cups, having to crack open a second bottle as he did. Ratici saw the Wall Lord walking sideways, bumping into people.

 Aldonss? Aldonss, whats the matter?

 Makhir hurried over, breaking off his surveince of Rafaema as Ferrisposed a [Message] back to the screaming High Command of their mutual city. The Drake was shaking his head.

 I cant stop. I cant stop. Everythings sliding! Is the world on a nt or just me?

 Makhir seized Aldonss. The Drake breathed a sigh of relief as he stopped and began to right himself. Just a loss of equilibrium. Hed really thought for a second

 Hunt Commander Makhirs eyes widened. Then he looked down and saw both himself and Aldonss sliding down the ballroom floor, despite standing perfectly upright.

 Wilovan and Ratici looked at Reynold. The [Combat Butler] offered them a cup.

 Inebriation changes your gravity, sirs. Just dont drink enough that you pass out.

 Now this seems like a fellow who knows his drink.

 The two abandoned their wines and took a gulp. It went down hard and stung, but that was what you wanted. All three sighed. Then Reynold nodded.

 Gentlemen Callers?

 They stiffened. Both nearly went for their weapons, but Reynold nced at them.

 I am in Lady Reinharts employ.

 Ah. The Flower Lady.

 Wilovan murmured, rxing slightly. Reynold nodded.

 I never did foray into it before bing a [Butler]. But I am from the north.

 Ah, then sir, you have us at a disadvantage, knowing our names and all. To whom are we speaking?

 Do pardon me, gentlemen. Reynold, [Butler], at your service. Charmed to meet you.

 He gave both a firm handshake. Ratici and Wilovan smiled, and Reynold managed one himself.

 Some things didnt need to be said. Wilovan checked Reynolds legs, as everyone did, and Ratici nced down too. Reynold eyed their wear and tear, and thought of the reports hed heard from Liscor, the Brotherhood of Serendipitous Meetings.

 It seems to me that Id be rude to say it, but you were that fellow in the nasty ambush with the Guild, werent you?

 The very same.

 Wilovan looked at Reynold. Not even many of the guests had put that together. The Gnoll nodded slowly.

 Then, sir. I shall drop it and offer you my sincere apologies.

 Itsnot necessary. Thank you for your discretion.

 Ratici nodded as well. He looked around at the gathering. They had known each other a minute, no more, and yet, the Drake was confident as he raised a cup.

 Its been a difficult time, fellows. But thats what a man has to do. A difficult time ofte.

 It was a simple toast that said nothing and said it all. Reynold slowly tapped cups with the Drake and Gnoll. They drank in silence.

 The [Server], who had watched the strange meeting in the center of Oteslias ballroom, felt someone tap her on the shoulder. One of Oteslias Wall Ladies stared at the three.

 Excuse me. Who are they?

 Debonair. Now there was a word that said a lot. Too much, really, especially if someone used it to describe themselves. It was a word that said what a lot of other words could say much more simply. Fancy for fancys sake, perhaps, like eloquent or preface. Sometimes things were too much gilding and not enough substance.

 Now, the [Butler], the hat-men? They were styleyered onto a lot of substance, which could and would kill you with a tap from a club that pushed your brains out your mouth. On the other handthe Thronebearers were to [Knights] what debonair was to words.

 Or so it seemed to anyone meeting them for the first time. Ser Lormel, Dame Ushar, Ser Sest, and Ser Dalimont of the Thronebearers of Cnfer marched in radiant pomposity towards her temporary home, followed by a seething gaggle of onlookers.

 It did not matter that they were covered in grime; in fact, even as you watched, you could see Ser Lormels armor magically losing some of the lesser dents, cleaning itself.

 Now theres a Skill thats useless.

 Saliss shook his head as he watched the [Knight] gallivant forwards, bowing to some people in the crowd, giving the onlookers a real disy of Terandrian etiquette. Which, it had to be said, the Drakes and Gnolls either found amusing, vaguely charming, or ludicrously stupid.

 Mirn knew Saliss was shaken, and folded his arms.

 Self-cleaning armor? Id trade one of my Skills for that. Does it do clothing too?

 He admired a well-dressed man, even though the Thronebearers were in a different style to, say, Wilovan or Ratici. Saliss could appreciate itbut didnt. He glowered as Lyte fled into her mansion.

 Certainly, the rest of Lytes growing entourage didnt hold anything but the lowest of expectations for this group. Wilovan and Ratici slumped into chairs as they entered, clearly ready for more near-death encounters. Xif took one look at Dame Ushar as she greeted him and rubbed at his eyes.

 Saliss, Mirn, the three watching [Covert Maids] from their hiding ces? Not a single thought ran in their heads but how could this lot make things worse?. They had already outed Lyte to the rest of Oteslia, if they hadnt known already, and from what everyone had seen of the war, the Thronebearers of Cnfer were as good in a fight as Saliss left sock.

 Saliss was tired, dealing with newyers ofplexity added to the Oteslian situation. He was no [Strategist], despite being Chaldions grandchild. But he could see what theyd see.

 Lets figure out how deep a hole were in. Magnolia Reinhart just tweaked Zeres tail again. Shes got a grand n and people now have to choose sides and support her or notand its a damned tempting offer, but its a side. Her side. At the same time, Oteslias gangs have Lyte marked for death, but Oteslias Watch wont go after them harddid you see that, Mirn?

 Yep. As bad as it gets.

 No, no. Its worse. Because now everyone knows Lyte is Lyte, thinks shes mixed up with Ilvriss from the ring, and we have four gold-ted idiots ready toplicate things. Plus the Faerie Flowers, Mrsha being missing, the tribes of Izril ready to tear the Drakes a second tail, the antidote, and!

 Saliss didnt even know about the Dragons. His head hurt. He expected to get a message from Chaldion any moment now. When one came, from the Mages Guild of all ces, and Researcher Dromenlhe was surprised.

 What? A possible lead? Dont pull my tail. Thats the <ist thing we needwhere in the name of Sewer Slimes is Anaznd? Whatshuhwhats this?

 He frowned as he snatched the sheaf from a Street Runner at the door and scanned the pages. Saliss eyes sharpened. Even he had only vaguely heard of the ingredients mentioned. Hed normally dismiss it out of w altogether. But today? He saw something Researcher Dromenl had underlined several times. An appended note.

 Khelt has begun experimentation. Alchemical ingredients are limited; supetive experts concur this solution is likely to seed. Sourcing of reagents has begun.

 Supetive experts? As the Named Adventurer [Alchemist], Saliss was insulted. He might have been less so if he came face to face with the Sage of a Hundred Thousand Secrets and the experts who agreed that, if the reagent still existed, it was definitely likely to help. See? You hadnt lost all the good stuff! Now just get a Unicorn horn, and

 He strode out of the mansion and left Mirn to watch the Gentlemen Callers sit, wearily tending to wounds and discussing the situation. Mirns own head hurt trying to process what was at stake.

 Lyte du Marquin had retreated to her rooms already. The Thronebearers were to wait on her pleasure, and that might be a few years ining. Nevertheless, Ser Dalimont was first on the chopping block as their leader.

 Here of all ces. Just like that.

 One of the Thronebearers was murmuring. Ser Sest cast a nce around the mansion, at Xif, the Gentlemen Callers, Mirn, and coughed.

 Dalimont, do you think its wise to go by yourself? I could smooth Her Highness temper

 Dalimont nced up as Lormel offered to join him. He eyed Ser Lormel.

 When was thest time you attended Her Highness?

 Hm. Well, not personally, but she was a lovely girl of about twelve

 Ah. In that case, I think I will risk her wrath alone. Her Highness, Seraphel, gave me a message to ry to her sister should I meet her.

 None of the other Thronebearers looked keen to join Dalimont, especially since it turned out theyd also let her daughter uhvanish. They gathered around, taking stock of the situation, as Dalimont girded his loins or whatever the hell [Knights] did.

 Mirn watched with a bit of Saliss skepticism as they muttered.

 So this is Oteslia. What a huge tree. Ive seen paintings and the scrying orb world tour, of course, but it is a sight to see in person.

 Ser Lormel nodded.

 Extraordinary. You know, this is the time to purchase some souvenirs in person. As much as one can afford, really. I am told they sell cuttings of some nts, seeds

 Sest raised a finger.

 Is it germane to gift something frivolous, in times of war?

 More to gift than not, I should think, Sest. Why, its the height of impoliteness to travel a continent apart and not have some token to bring back. Now, whats this business were caught up in? I got that Lady Reinharts herewhat a scandalous contract! And a siege. And the Meeting of Tribes. AndI say, does anyone have a bit of paper so we can jot this all down?

 Amazing. They were idiots. Dalimont rose as Ratici looked up. Lyte had called his name, and he marched to the steps like a man towards a Creler nest.

 Excuse me, Miss, Sirs. Papers over there.

 The Thronebearers turned. Dame Ushar fetched some writing supplies.

 Thank you, Mister

 Ratici. Are you staying with us, then?

 Wilovan raised his intoxicated and weary head; he was indeed feeling a bit of gravity pulling him sideways, not altogether unpleasant. But he was in no mood for another fight, thank you sir. Dame Ushar watched Dalimont head to Lytes room and bowed slightly.

 Indeed, Mister Ratici. We trust we shall not be a burden on her HLadyMiss Marquin.

 You mean, Miss Solstice.

 Is that the name shes using?

 Ser Sest eximed. Xif poked his head back into the dining room.

 Are you all staying here? Someone had better get groceries. Not me. Im trying to experiment

 The Thronebearers traded nces. Lormel looked patently horrified.

 Is Her Highness staying under the same roof as an [Alchemist]? Hardly safe, I must say! Mister Ratici, and Wilovan, is it? And good day to you too, Mister Mirn! I know we are allies of convenience, but I must ask if Miss Lite is so strapped for coin that she must share a home?

 Interestingly, he gave Lyte the curious inflection of her fake name. Mirn shrugged.

 I just got here. I think were all here to avoid her being shanked in her sleep. There have been attempts already. This is a house given to her by the First Gardener.

 Yes, but the impropriety!

 Xif looked rather hurt.

 Saliss of Lights is here too. Hes a Named Adventurer and hes naked.

 We did notice. But a Named Adventurer is considered de rigueur in making scandalous movesno, no. Absolutely not. This will not do!

 Dame Ushar had investigated the pantry and found it was almost empty of foodstuffs. She tapped Lormel on the shoulder.

 Add provisions to this list. Make a columnnext to the one with the political issues. Lady Marquin surely hungers for food from home. A Cnfer wrap, perhaps for an evening snack? I imagine the ingredients would not be that hard to source.

 Fresh beef? Perhaps an issue with the [Druids]

 Lormel adjusted his writing. Mirn, Xif, and the Gentlemen Callers were now watching this side show with a kind of awed stupefaction. Were they idiots? No, were they real?

 Nonsense, Im sure even Oteslia has a [Butcher]s. Who has the best Skills here in the appropriate cuisine preparation?

 Lormel hmmed.

 I suppose I would do, in lieu of a chef. At least in preparing small treats. [Delight Cooking], you know. Not for meals, but at least something to cheer Her Highness?

 Ah, I knew you had your weight in gold, Ser Lormel.

 Sest had been taking a tour of the house. He nodded at the Thronebearer and Lormel modestly shook his head.

 Its only for entertainment. The Princesses do appreciate a bit of a show, especially when they have guestsnow, to business. Dame Ushar, your shopping list.

 Thank you, Ser Lormel. Sest, are you going to walk about the mansion?

 A few rounds. Lormel, the streets?

 At once, Ser Sest! Just to scope out this quagmire. Perhaps inform the pce we have made it anon to the Princess side?

 Very good. With deepest apologies, guestsit is a very difficult situation and we havended ourselves in the center of it. We must make formal introductionster

 Sest bowed as the two Thronebearers hurried to the door, but they all stopped to shake hands, bow, and then speed out. He walked around the rooms and the mansions exterior. Mirn just shook his head and copsed into a chair.

 Humans.I thought Saliss was making some of it up, but they really are all as crazy as the rumors say.

 He was tired enough himself that he might have dozed off. The asional raised word from Lyte drifting down the stairs was not enough to take him out of a dozing state.

 Dame Ushar returning with groceries wasnt either. Nor Lormel returning, still amid the buzz from outside. Sest? It was only when someone shrieked that Mirn was on his feet, club in hand.

 Wilovan had a simr weapon in his grip. They surged forwards as someone screamed.

 [Assassin]! Murder!

 The watching [Maids] cursed as they focused on the mansion. Already?

 It was Xifs fault. Xifs, the First Gardeners, and mainly Xifs again. Given the gravitas of the situation, the First Gardener had decided Lyte needed some help. So shed sent some staff to assist in the mansions upkeep, as she very much doubted anyone with Lyte could wield a broom properly.

 Sending staff to a Human who had just been nearly killed? You might want to vet them. You might not want to open the door, but the [Alchemist] had absent-mindedly let them in.

 AndMirn skidded to a halt as he raced upstairs and saw the carnage.

 A shock of red hair. Blood. Mirns jaw opened. A body in a dressy on the floor as an innocuous Drake with a feather duster whirled. She looked almost as confused as Wilovan and Mirn. But they froze in shock. The [Assassin] cursed.

 I got her! Understand?

 She threw down something. A badge or calling card, and burst out the window. Mirn looked around for Dalimont, but he was gone. Dead? A traitor? What was

 Whats happening? Another attack? Dead gods.

 Xif stared in horror at Lytes body. She wasnt breathing. Someone had stabbed her so many times thateveryone was frozen as they saw the murder. How? Without anyone seeing?

 Ser Sest, Ushar, and Lormel appeared behind the group, the slowest to arrive. They took one look at the bloody room, the dead body. Ser Sest nodded.

 Ah. Theyve discovered the body.

 Well done, Ser Sest. This must be a record.

 Lormel went to shake Sests hand. Every head turned slowly as the Thronebearer adjusted his mustache.

 Yes, well. I say, is that a calling card? I do love collecting them.

 He strode over and picked up the token, a kind of curved wing. He tucked it away and Ushar scolded him.

 We have to analyze which [Assassin] it was, Sest.

 Excuse me. Lyte is dead!

 Mirn shouted. The Thronebearers turned to him, looking amused. Ratici and Wilovan were turning, realizing something

 A door opened. Mirn saw a familiar young woman poke her head out. Lyte stared, still angry, and now confused, at the gathered people. Mirns jaw dropped as Dalimont heaved a sigh.

 Excuse me, Your Highness. I believe your [Knights] are securing the mansion.

 He closed the door as Mirns jaw clicked shut. Dame Ushar studied the deadbody

 Does anyone have a spare preservation charm? I need a bit more pigs blood.

 We could use beetroot juice. It washes easier.

 Ser Lormel, please. Blood is not that easy to replicate. Excuse me, Mister Mirn? We need to preserve the moment.

 Dame Ushar carefully covered Mirns footprints with a fresh sttering of blood. She stepped back, nodded, and closed the door. Then she adjusted something on the front.

 Lytes Room.

 The sign was a bit askew. The Thronebearer dusted her hands.

 We need a new window, Lormel.

 I will ask the help to look into it.

 What is going on?

 Mirn burst out atst. The Thronebearers gave him an odd look. Sest exined after a moment.

 Why, security of course, Mister Mirn. This is just the first step. Ive taken the liberty of cing wards on all the windows, and I suspect the roof isnt fully secured yet, Ushar, Lormel. Also, we have at least four pairs of eyes. I noticed three of Reinharts staff.

 Fitting. I suppose theyll deal with other surveince.

 The three Thronebearers trooped downstairs. They stood around the table as Lormel consulted their notes. This time, their audience followed and looked again.

 This is by way of being the pre-murdered-quarry feint. A ssic in Cnfer, and I am delighted it worked here. I apologize for the ruse, but it is always most convincing the first time.

 The dead body?

 Pigs meat. I bought some blood and meat from a [Butcher]s. We do have to hang a charm up to make sure it wont smell or rot, but that room is effectively upied. Some [Assassins] break in, see the dead body, and leave. Not that you intend to let them onto the premises, you understand? But it is amazing how often they check the signs on the doors.

 Ushar smiled. Sest rolled his eyes.

 We only let in that one so she would cast further bounties into doubt, Ushar. Lets not imply that we make a habit of letting killers near Their Highnesses. Now, Im nearly done setting up the sound wards, Lormel. Whats the situation politically?

 Ser Lormel adjusted his hair with ab.

 In a word? Tricky. Were clearly married to the Wall Lord Ilvriss, aha, that is to say, both as allies of convenience and perception-wise. I should wait on Her Highness word, but I have already had nearly eight invitations from concerned parties wishing to meet with one of us, personally.

 Very good. Perhaps I should visit them?

 Polish your armor first, Ser Sest. I actually have written invitations as well. How many, Ushar?

 She counted.

 Sixteen.

 Sixteen. Then how about this? I shall respond to all signatories via the Mages Guild. No, no, the Runners Guild. Let me just identally list all parties in correspondence so they can see each otherand my delighted acquiescenceon behalf of Cnfer, the Eternal Throne protect all alliesthat should do.

 Do you think theyll buy it? Perhaps its too blunt, Lormel.

 Not for [Knights] far from home. Forgetting to respond individually is a ssic mistake, Ser Sest. Now, when you go, they want you to ride in a carriage.

 Ah, excellent. Then I shall ride myself. Armor shining. Should I announce myself? Ser Sest of the Thronebearers of Cnfer!

 Dame Ushar tapped a finger on the table.

 Mm. Thats quite good. Give them the Dukes bow as well before entering.

 Mirn traded a look with Ratici. The other Drake looked like hed turned into a fish. Was he hearing things right? Were the Thronebearers

 Excuse me. What are you doing?

 Xif looked bewildered. The Thronebearers instantly borated.

 Im so sorry, Alchemist Xif. This is by way of being a rushed moment, so we have failed to borate. Simple politics. Sers Sest and Lormel are simply engaging in a muddied waters tactic. The Thronebearers prevailing rather publicly on a lot of interested parties, nay, allies. At least in presentation.

 And presentation leads to reality at times. Lormel, would you draw up a list of all the priority candidates to keep track of?

 I have a list of thirty two and growing. Would you like to quibble over the names?

 Sest nced at the list. And there it was. Like watching a fish, flopping onnd, finally enter the water. The Thronebearers didnt even seem bothered by the tangle of politics. This was their battlefield and they calmly set to work. Dame Ushar stepped outside for a second and Mirn listened as she vocalized loud enough for the watchers to hear.

 Excuse me, Miss? I am Dame Ushar of the Thronebearers of Cnfer, at your service. May the Eternal Throne watch over you! Might I trouble you for directions or a method by which tomunicate my deepest thanks to Pass for allowing mypany safe passage? Perhaps an embassy? Quite a splendid journey, near the end, but I do see their warning about Zeres was to be heeded. Perhaps a way to send a written letter? Thank you.

 She marched off. Sest shook his head.

 Ushar does like the theatrics. Should we ask her to skulk in armor amidst nightfall?

 With a shadowed figure? Next to whose mansion?

 Mm. Make it one of Her Highness enemies. She gets to rub soot into her armor. Who are we bribing and how much?

 Can you slipeight gold pieces tothis Drake? A Wall Lord Aldonss staff. And then, of course, slip up.

 Trip?

 Maybe just drop the bag. Lets not all fall over ourselves, Lormel. Save that for the right moment.

 Too true, Sest. Too true

 Fascinating fellows. Quite an upgrade from fancy idiots. But it urred to their audience, watching the Thronebearers, that perhaps these were the reinforcements they needed in this hour. After all. Lyte had a Named Adventurer in her corner. She had Mirn, the underworlds famous duo, and a lot of allies.

 What she did not haveuntil nowwere people who could help her deal with the many factions warring for her interest. And, more crucially? Sest and Lormel were drawing up a rotation, and Ratici and Wilovan, Mirn, even Xif, realized none of them intended to leave her side, sleeping or eating.

 She didnt have good bodyguards. The Gentlemen Callers were good fighters. Terrible bodyguards. There was a difference between being able to kill someone and watching someone. Saliss had the exact same problem. The Thronebearers of Cnfer lived for this job alone.

 I rather think we have a chance of escorting Her Highness out of this mess, between us all, Lormel. Its Dalimont Im worried about. The mans changed.

 Sest said atst, when they were done with their brainstorming session. By now, Mirn, Ratici, Wilovan, and Xif were sitting with the Thronebearers, having learned a respect for their methods. Mirn nced up as Lormel nodded eloquently. Ushar stepped back in, having sent a signatory address to Pass and identally read part of her letter out loud for great services rendered to Cnfer.

 Are we gossiping about Ser Dalimont? For shame.

 Sest ducked his head, but he nced significantly around.

 You see, Mister Mirn

 Mirns fine.

 I thank you. It is not that we dont trust Ser Dalimont. All of us were sent by our respective members of the royal family. Ser Lormel normally guards their Majesties, the [King] and [Queen] of Cnfer, I am Princess Shardeles champion, and Dame Ushar is the chosen representative of Princess Vernoue.

 It was all Terandrian to Mirn, but Ser Sest had a point.

 Ser Dalimont isor rather, is recentlyPrincess Seraphel du Marquins [Knight]. That is, her chosen representative of the Thronebearers in enforcing her will, defending her honor, a trustworthy aid and confidant. Cnfer is united as one, but there arefactions, shall we say.

 Lormel coughed tactfully.

 Indeed. Not that we, any of us, bear Her Highness Lyte any ill-will. But Dalimont? Changed.

 How so? He seemed like a fairly well-set chap. Not that Ive seen much of him yet.

 Wilovan leaned over. The Brothers of Serendipitous Meetings might be divorced in some ways from the Thronebearers, but they had interesting simrities. Especially as two groups that sometimes regarded their own members. Ushar pursed her lips.

 Well, Dalimont was not in Seraphels camp to begin with. This is gossip, of course, but I have to admitIve been itching to speak of it. We havent had a moment to spot it, but the differences have been growing. Her Highness, Princess Seraphel, didnt have a champion until recently; she had no desire to do so.

 Who is that? The

 4th Princess, Mister Xif. Lytes the 6th.

 Oh. And waitshes a [Princess]?What!?

 Mirn grinned.

 Keep up, Xif. Is that significant, Dame Ushar?

 Mm. Not really, Mirn. I would say it is significantly insignificant, given Princess Seraphelspersonality. She can be difficult.

 I say, Ushar! A bit harsh!

 That was Lormel, protesting. He exined to the group.

 Princess Seraphel has had an unlucky run of it. I would put a better spin on it if we were not so closely alliedbetween us, she is Seraphel the Dutiful in Cnfer. Her other nickname isSeraphel the Cursed. The Widow. She has survived two husbands now in their graves.

 Three, if you count the fianc who eloped.

 Was itunscrupulous?

 Wilovan looked as ufortable as Lormel about this line of gossip, which the Thronebearer clearly appreciated. Lormel sighed.

 Not in any case. One died of age, in bed, another a hunting identafter they divorced, but stillthest one, most recent, soon after they were wed, in battle. So I suppose it should not count, but it does. Dalimont was escorting her on thatst marriage. Messy business. Quite a scandal at the time, over in Noelictus. Itchanged him.

 I never knew Dalimont as well before that. How do you mean, Lormel? Obviously, Ive seen how he acted at Liscor. Differently.

 Ushar rested her weight on the table. Lormel, oldest of the lot, and the one whod been at the royal court, frowned.

 II dont know how to say it. He pledged his allegiance to Her Highness, Seraphel. He certainly levelled up a bit. He was a [Knight] like any otherdecent. Mannered, a bit ill-fated to be chosen as Her Highness leader to escort her to the wedding, or so I thought. He came back without as much patience. For some kinds of activities, you see? Like at Liscor, where he did away with our customary address.

 Its part and parcel of our very order.

 Yes. Wellhe wasnt the only one who changed.

 Lormel murmured. He cast his eyes up towards the ceiling, where the discussion that had gone on for at least two hours had at least stopped being vocal enough to be heard through the floorboards. Lyte had stopped shouting. Lormel tapped a finger to his lips.

 I have heard rumors Princess Seraphel changed too. But no further can I specte. And what happened there? Only Ser Dalimont knows.

 Surely you could ask another Thronebearer who went with them.

 Ushar remarked. Ser Sest shook his head.

 I would make a joke about the Kingdom of Shade, Noelictus, if it were not entirely unseemly, Dame Ushar. I fear the only ones who could tell us of it were those two, unless the dead can speak. We sent a royal escort to Noelictus with Princess Seraphel. Ser Dalimont is the only one who came back.

 Princess Lyte du Marquin did not like him. She did not trust him, or the other Thronebearers. They were an inconvenience, fools, and had nearly died to no good end. She was not Cnfers pawn. She had her daughter to save and she knew the Thronebearers.

 She had every right not to trust them. Dalimont could even agree with her frank assessment of theirbat capabilities.

 What saddened him was that she wondered why her sisters had sent their [Knights], and Seraphel, 4th Princess of Cnfer, him. Lyte du Marquin did not think of familial love in their actions. She just saw familial gain.

 It saddened Dalimont, because that was no way for her to live. He had not thought of it like that before. Now? He looked at Lyte du Marquin and struggled to recognize her.

 Not in appearance; she was clearly older, changed by her experiences, but in everything else. The way she held herself, looked at him. Even spoke.

 Gone was the young [Princess] who made a name for herself by calling people peons and refusing to so much as acknowledge anyone she considered lesser. Even her presence felt different. She had been a Princess of Cnfer, before.

 Here was a [Princess]. Dalimont would not have credited the transformation, and he wondered if hispanions would sense it. But he had seen a change just like this.

 Your Highness. I beg your pardon for our interruption to your ns. Yet Cnfer is at war. The crown would seek you out as it would any hope of defending the Dawn Concordat.

 He saw those blue eyes narrow. You mean, a tool. A weapon. Dalimont hesitated.

 Yes, at least as far as His Majesty is concerned. However, I do not represent the Eternal Throne alone. Princess Seraphel bade mee and render you aid, Your Highness. Not purely for her political gain! I cannot speak for mypany. But I shall do as I believe Her Highness, Seraphel du Marquin, wishes. And that does not mean I shall demand you return immediately.

 It surprised her, though Lyte kept her face clear. Dalimont was born and bred in Cnfer, though, so what others would miss, he read.

 The thing was, she was skeptical. She knew the 4th Princess of Cnfer. Seraphel du Marquin was not asunkind as some of her sisters. She was famed for her sharp tongue, her failed marriages. But she and Lyte had not been closer than any other two sisters; far less than some. Neither were they enemies.

 She has changed, Your Highness. I do not know how else to say it other thanan experience. No, I apologize, for those words arecking. It was

 Dalimont closed his eyes, and the perplexed [Princess] lost some of the ire and actually listened after two hours of remonstrations. He didnt me her; she was terrified for her daughter. He had wonderedbut it was true. And her learning of their journey, their encounter with Mrsha, and him understanding her position had taken that long just to go through.

 But there was more she didnt know. Ser Dalimont had changed. He had been in thepany of the 4th Princess. How could he exin it to her? He tried, hesitating, but all he could say was

 An adventure. Such as the one you yourself have gone through. Princess Lyte, I beg you. Listen to me. I am Seraphels will. She sent me, war or not, to help you. My fellow Thronebearers may demand youe home. Serapheldoes not. She is worried for you. She is not the same woman you knew.

 The [Princess] looked at Dalimont. The Thronebearer rose from his kneeling position where he had rested. His armor was still battered. But gold was not light, anyways.

 I will tell you almost all that I can, without revealing Her Highness secrets, such as they may be. For the rest? You must ask Princess Seraphel herself. It may be an incredible tale, Princess Lyte. Nevertheless, I tell you this: it was an adventure. A tragedy in parts. Noelictus, the Kingdom of Shade, saw war and cmity. The dead walked. I fought undead and saw a [Necromancer] assail the living. I saw war. Andthe very same monster who assailed your inn. The Spider herself.

 He clenched a fist. Now, Lyte was listening. Dalimont shook his head.

 Her Highness was there. Yet it seems that at the center of it allit may sound incredible to say, unbelievable, but at the heart of it, among the many things, the reason she changed and we escaped the direst of odds was a simplemeeting. We met someone extraordinary, before her name rang across the continent and world. You know her, I think. We met the Singer of Terandria under Noelictus dark skies.

 Lytes eyes widened. She stopped growing angry, questioning Seraphels intentions. She sat down and listened. Because though the story was incredible, unbelievableshe had met someone too. And she knew more than Dalimont of why it hade to pass.

 In Noelictus, the Singer of Terandria had appeared out of nowhere, seemingly. Her tale intertwined with the 4th Princess of Cnfer, among many others. Dalimont spoke, haltingly, conveying as much as he could to exin to Lyte why she could trust him. Not all of it. He didnt know all of it, and what he did speak was incredible enough.

 But thatwas a tale for another time. And before Dalimont could tell it fully, Lyte du Marquin and he both turned and saw the newsing from Terandria.

 A single battle among many, but an astonishing one. What made the two stop was that Lyte looked at the figure and named him. Dalimont realized that, somehow, his long journey across another continent had led him straight back home.

 It was all, somehowconnecting.

 A [Knight]-order quite unlike the Thronebearers of Cnfer rode like fire. Literally; some of them ran so hot after the battle that their horses hooves ignited the ground.

 However, theirs was a distant me to the Order of Seasons true might. Pheints fighting army, much battered, but rescued from aplete rout, rode with them, as did the liberated prisoners.

 To the south, the Summers Champion and Order of Seasons main force fell back for reinforcements. Yet they had survived the anvil of the Order of the Hydra.

 This disparate force was moving deeper into Ailendamus territory, cutting east, already being pursued. But from the Order of the Hydra, who were on foot.

 We have a window to strike from. I will not gainsay Ser Solstice his choice. If anything, I say it is the only option left to us! We could fall back and regroup, but Ailendamus will be forced to pursue us. We might even hope to enter the main battleground of Kaliv and the Dawn Concordat, as we hoped.

 One of the most senior Spring Knights voiced his opinion as they rode. He was one of the former prisoners, a Ser Gauradin, who was checking his armor as he spoke. He adjusted a gauntlet, then murmured to thepany.

 I think I have the wrong armor set. Mine has my name etched in it, just behind the cuirass. Can anyone check?

 The recently-liberated prisoners were trading their gear back and forth, much of which had been neatly, conveniently stored. One called out that she had Gauradins armor and they arranged to trade the next time they stopped.

 What the Spring Knight didnt say was what everyone knew. One persons unorthodox tactics had turned the battle in their favor. If Ser Solstice thought continuing the raid across Ailendamus lines would help, well, the recently-liberated prisoners were not about to question his judgement.

 If anyone would, it would be Talia Kallinad, one of the most senior Summer Knights present. She wasnt sure she would.

 There he rode. Talk of the hour, the mysterious Goblin yer of Izril. Ser Solstice, or the rabbit eater, as the Order of the Hydra knew him.

 The Goblin [Knight]. She couldnt decide what to make of him anymore. She had ridden to his aid and did not regret that. She had seen him best a [General] of Ailendamusfor the third time.

 And now? He had two auras.

 Every [Knight] could tell. Gauradin rode forwards, next to Ser Solstice.

 A fine moment, Ser Solstice! If we were at the Order of Seasons, we would celebrate your achievement! It is customary, you see, for friends andrades to toast the asion. We of the Order of Seasons call it the Advent of Color. I had not your acquaintance except in passing, even though we rode in the same host. I would take it as an honor, Ser, if you would allow me to participate. You have liberated us from ignoble imprisonment and won a great battle.

 I would also join your Advent upon our return!

 A Summer Knight who had ridden with Talia called out. Ser Solstice raised his hands, his bodynguage expressive despite the armor, but he didnt object. He seemed quietly pleased as the others gathered around him.

 The hero of the moment. Behind him, Ser Ilm was discussing Rabbiteaters new change with a veteran Summer Knight. Neither Zolv nor Voost were here, not the Summer Champions personal guard, but every Order of Seasons [Knight] was an aura-wielder, and thus among the worlds experts in using them, aside from [Ladies], royalty, and the few other sses that specialized in the subject.

 Two auras. Now, neither one is seasonal.

 Does it matter, Ser Ilm? An aura is a fine thing! Two? Why, thats rare even among our order!

 Not unheard of, but yes. I only fear it will make Ser Solstices life more difficult. Not worsebut we have a precedent.

 Do we, Ser Ilm?

 Talia rode closer and joined the conversation. Ser Ilm nodded, the Autumn Knights eyes alight with schrly interest.

 Sometimes a member of our order is so gifted as to receive two at once. Even be caught between seasons, though that is rarest yet. It is a blessingand aplication.

 I can see theplication. Will his auras fight for dominance? He cannot sustain both at once, surely.

 Talia knew auras. Each person had their innate personality, beliefs, willpower, made manifest. If you could physically manipte it, that was a huge, versatile help. Butlike any muscle, pool of magic, or so on, it had limits. Ilm nodded seriously.

 He will have to find his bnce. That he has two means two forces weigh equally upon his soul. For instance, I am Autumns Child. You two are Summers Wrath. He? Something in him speaks to Hearth. Something in him is quite Brave.

 I cannot doubt thetter!

 The Summer Knightughed. Talia smiled politely, and Ilm went on.

 He shall have to train. Battle will help him, I think, although I hope it will not cost him anything. I see Ser Markus and Dame Meisa are already showing him the basics.

 Talia looked ahead. And there they were, his friends. She had been among their number just a month ago, and would have been most pleased of all. She was conflicted. And Ser Ilm noticed.

 I was gratified to see you break Ailendamus lines with us, Dame Talia. But I would be remiss in not mentioning the wedge between you and Ser Solstice.

 I cannot credit it, Talia.

 The other [Knight] leaned over. He frowned, flipping up his visor to stare at Ser Solstice.

 You have never borated on your reasons for drawing a line, nor did I ask. But I have not found his conduct unbing! Unconventional, perhaps.

 I cannot exin, Ser Ioust.

 Very well. But I shall make amends for my own absence of warmth.

 The man nodded sharply and rode forwards. Talia bit her lip. They had noticed her obvious split with Rabbiteater, in the mess hall and at other times. Greysten had had words with her, but not forced her to do anything. Now? Damn it allshe ground her teeth.

 Why was it not easy?

 They made camp shortly, only travelling far enough to avoid pursuit. There was a lot to do, injuries to attend to that healing potions had not fully fixed, armor to swap, ns to be made.

 Rabbiteater was at the center of it, with the veteran [Knights] and Pheintsmand. He was not eloquent, but Talia saw him surprise the others with the course he plotted. He was not an expert on maps. He did not know the particrs of their logistics or Pheints armys style.

 However, he did see ces to hide, ces to strike from. He was a veteran raider and knew how to lose pursuit or make a defenders life a misery.

 She absented herself from the discussion, though she had every right to attend. She still didnt know how to act around him. Talia was attending to her armor when someone joined her.

 Dame Talia. A word?

 Dame Meisa. Talia nced up. They were closer to the sentry posts than the camp proper, a ways out from thetrines. Talia saw few [Knights] around.

 Of course, Dame Meisa.

 She tensed a bit, despite herself, as Dame Meisa sat, removed her helmet, and began to check her own gear. The two were silent for a moment. But Meisa was Spring and spring did not like waiting.

 I was pleased to see that you honored your vow at the end. Rabbiteater might have died, but for your intervention, and I thank you for that.

 Talias hand paused as she applied a thin coat of fast-drying paint to her armor.

 I only did what any [Knight] of the Summer would do, Dame Meisa.

 Of course, Dame Talia. But I didnt know if you would do even that. Youve made your feelings about Rabbiteater in.

 The Summer Knight calmly put down her breastte. She suppressed her aura, although posture was more difficult.

 That sounds unworthy of you, Dame Meisa.

 Does it? I didnt know if you would ride to the Goblins defence.

 You rode with him. I was not about to let any [Knight] die in vain.

 And if it was just Rabbiteater, Ser Solstice alone?

 Talia set down her tools.

 If you want to take me to task for my views, Dame Meisa, it feels like this has been a conversation long set aside.

 Meisas not-quite-re never wavered.

 Indeed. I recognize that, as a Spring Knight not yet set in her season, I cannot take a superior [Knight] to task.

 By all means, Dame Meisa. Speak your mind.

 Very well, Talia. Then I find your conduct towards Rabbiteater dishonorable and shameful. I am d you acted properly at the crucial moment.

 Talia Kallinad was not the woman you turned to when you defused a situation. The Summer Knight felt her temper roused in an instant.

 Really. That is an incredible position from you, Meisa. Should we simply ignore that Goblins have been our enemies? That Goblin Kings have destroyed entire nations?

 I think we should make a difference between individuals and species! Or did his identity undo the fact that he saved us from the Bear of Ailendamus? He sailed across an ocean because you asked him to, Dame Talia. And you insulted him time and time again, when before that I counted you as his strongest ally.

 Talia did not deny that. She folded her arms.

 And I am not blind to the fact that the instant I vouched my doubts, you hopped entirely into Rabbiteaters camp.

 Is that a slur on my dignity, Dame Talia?

 Meisa asked, calmly. Talia shrugged.

 You tell me. I do not suggest that intimacy is disgraceful. I am not a prude, Dame Meisa. But it is one thing to greet a Goblin [Knight] as arade, and another to go as far as you.

 The Spring Knight smiled with more than a hint of Winters element.

 I confess, Dame Talia, you may be right. Perhaps I have hopped faster than most. But I will tell you, honestly, that it was you who pushed me into it.

 Talia hadnt expected that.

 Really? Why?

 The Spring Knight stretched out her legs. The two sat alone, ignored by the rest of the camp. Unheardexcept for Ser Markus, trying to slowly edge away, on his way back from thetrines.

 You drove me to it, Dame Talia. I will confess, it was swift. And motivated by sympathy. Sympathy, aye, for a brave warrior who crossed a sea for war, did all this, and was stabbed in the chest by a woman who would not look him in the eye. But I found he was more than he seemed. So I will not be lectured by you andwhat are you doing, Ser Markus?

 Talias head snapped around. Ser Markus froze, halfway behind the tent.

 I, ah, was just heading off. Dont mind me, Dame Talia, Meisa.

 You look as if you fear well kill each other, Markus. Dont be a prat. Were talking.

 Meisa nodded. Both stared at Ser Markus and the Spring Knight hesitated. He checked his armor, then shook his head.

 I appreciate the situation is deeply personal and thank you for your words of assurance, Meisa. Talia. But with respect? I have sisters.

 He made his escape. Ironically, his flight calmed the argument. For a moment. Meisa turned back to Talia.

 You disgust me, Talia. I held you in considerable esteem, and we fought for Ser Raim together. Despite that, despite sailing to Baleros for your brother, you could not see past the color of Rabbiteaters skin and eyes. For that, I hate you. It is like our half-Elven brethren in the Order of Seasons facing issues with the least-tolerant of our order.

 How dare you. It is not the same

 Then why did you ride to his aid? Why do you clearly struggle to maintain your hostility? I am d you are conflicted. Mayhaps, with time, you will stop breathing hypocrisy. Good evening to you.

 Dame Meisa rose, and Talia was rendered speechless for a moment. She watched the Spring Knight walk away. Talia caught up after fourteen steps. Meisa swung around.

 There is one thing you have yet to think of, Meisa.

 Which is?

 Meisa waited. Talia looked past her, at Rabbiteater.

 Some day that helmet wille off. Some day, if we live, and I do hope we all willhe will have to choose where he goes. Will he stay with the Order of Seasons? Will he live his entire life behind a mask? Will you go with him? You offer him a Springs fancy, Meisa. Do not deny it. Or would you wed a Goblin? Do you see the end of the strange road he has taken?

 Meisa hesitated. And Talia thrust the only knife she had home. Which was that Meisas kindness was not necessarily forever. The Spring Knight looked at Talia.

 Spring is short. For however long itsts

 That is the fault of Spring. It runs off, ever quick. Think more carefully yourself, Dame Meisa, on what you believe. And what you think he believes of your actions.

 Talia turned on her heels and strode off. Ser Markus ducked back behind a tent p. She turned, and kicked him through the canvas.

 The Order of Seasons had gotten away. Noworse. Theyd gotten away, looked good while doing it, and humbled a third Ailendamus [General].

 Or had one [Knight]? Rumors were flying everywhere about this Ser Solstice, and fact was hard to tell from fiction, so little stock was ced in the veracity of everything. But he was a name to remember, especially if he popped up again.

 I want those [Knights] crushed! Not by another army! Tell the Dame of the Hills to kill them all!

 Rhisveri stormed out of a war meeting, knowing full well that his words would be tempered by the damned [King], his advisors, [Strategists], [Generals], and all the ipetents.

 Ipetents. Mortal fools with a fraction of my lifespan, who think a Skill equates to strategic genius! I dont know why I bothered to create them!

 He raged in private. It was his counsel who calmed him.

 Yes, Rhisveri was the Wyrm who ruled Ailendamus. But even he had people he listened to, although the rtionship was notably unbnced. Nevertheless, Sophridel, the Elemental of Masks; Fithea, the ancient Dryad; Culnous, eldest of the Merfolk; and a few more were allowed to speak to him.

 Not Gw or children like Menorkel the Titan. Rhisveri had a hair-trigger temper. Yet even he needed someone to vent to.

 Let them fight their wars. Ailendamus wins in the end, Rhisveri. Take a step back. If we lose mortals, we lose mortals.

 It was a calm rejoinder from a remarkablycoldeyed man. With horns. And colored skin. As innot the colors normally associated with Humans. If he was even Human. Which he was not. Nor was he a Demon of Rhirtechnically. That was a catchall term for them. He?

 He was closer to, oh, lets say, the genuine article. And his dispassionate expression didnt change, even when the worst casualty reports came in.

 By contrast, Sophridel was a logical being of many faces, but he was not uncaring, just incapable. One could care and didnt choose to, the other was simply alien to it.

 I did not create Ailendamus to waste lives, Visophecin. This reflects upon arger setting. The Order of the Hydra was bested.

 Not byck of numbers. It was a fluke. You saw that high-level [Knight] charge out. Izril. He did not fall into the trap of their system of warfare.

 Culnous pointed out. Rhisveri growled over it.

 I dont care. If our strategy were perfect, flukes would make no difference! And now House Veltras is sinking our navy!

 One fleet. Which you had a hand in.

 Visophecin calmly reminded Rhisveri. He didnt flinch from the Wyrms rein this ce, they were all in their natural forms.

 Peace. He was unwise to kidnap Ryoka Griffin, and Veltras child. So I believed. Yet I see a deeper wisdom, by chance or design. Or did you not feel it as she opened that gate?

 The horned man turned and nodded at Fithea. Even Rhisveri bit back the hostilement. The Dryadmanded attention; she was oldest of them all, and that said a lot.

 I did, Fithea. I have also heard of themotion she caused just yesterday.

 That was Gws fault as much as mine. Culnous, are your people distraught?

 Only startled. No harm done.

 The Merman spat some water from his mouth as he swam up in the portable vessel. He eyed Visophecin.

 I was sorry to miss her. You arrived in a storm. Do you want to meet her too, this Wind Runner?

 I already have observed her with the children. I did not care to get close. Someone must treat her with due wariness.

 Visophecins caution infected the others. Rhisveri glowered.

 The coinage she has

 Rhisveri. Do not fixate.

 Sophridel spoke, and the Wyrm hissed. He really wanted that money, but Fithea was more focused on the gateway.

 I heard voices. Do you know what this means? She has offered you a meeting with your kind, Rhisveri. Worlds apart! She cannot be ignored. You must meet with her. If you will not, I will.

 You do not know what she wants, Fithea!

 No. We do not. And it must be something, given the forces at y, mustnt it, Rhisveri? I wonder exactly what this Ryoka Griffin is seeking?

 Visophecin made Rhisveri hesitate. If you had to rank them in terms of powerwell, power was a silly game to y. But if you did, and you took out Culnous being the head of his people, Fitheas respect, and such?

 Visophecin was one to make even Rhisveri at least watch his tongue, now and then. The Wyrm smiled.

 My affairs are mine. Have I not done a fine job?

 The man paused a moment. When he spoke, as many times, it surprised the others.

 You have. I will not deny your role has done more for us all than can be stated. And here is the proof: Ryoka Griffin.

 How do you mean, Visophecin?

 Sophridel floated closer, more masks turning to face the man. The cold eyes flickered with something likeinterest. Visophecin smiled, a rare motion.

 Why, because we have finally entered into what I will colloquially call the big leagues, Sophridel. The grand stage.

 Ailendamus was not that already?

 Rhisveri snapped, offended. Visophecin shook his head.

 No. Rhisveri, reframe your perspective as Fithea suggests. We have had sesses. Ailendamus was a major power decades ago, over a century ago. And it has had more power here that it has not needed to even unleash.

 He gestured around at all of them, and the others besides, the shadow yers behind Ailendamus greatness. There were nods from all around. Visophecin looked at Rhisveri.

 However. We have, by chance, luck, or a design on a grander scale, now had someone try to steal our greatest treasure. Concurrently, we have also had a marriage invitationa pact analogous to matrimony. I do not pretend to understand Wyrm courtships, but it is there, is it not?

 Erin a sense.

 Rhisveri recoiled backwards. Visophecin went on.

 The first pact to Ailendamus ruler.

 Nonsense. Weve had plenty ofoh.

 Rhisveri saw everyone look at him, then at Visophecin. The man tapped his lips, and a tailof a kindmoved behind him.

 Yes. To the true ruler of Ailendamus. We have established contact, even possible trade with a foreign power. Only, instead of on aary scale? A dimensional scale. We have entered into a new phase of imperium. So when I say I take this matter seriously? I take it seriously. I suggest you reframe the Wind Runner not as a thief, but as tidings, Rhisveri. Nowwhat shall we do about it? Leave the Order of Seasons to the mortals. We must be serious, cautious, resolute, for we dance a game with our kin. And they y as well as we.

 The other immortals slowly nodded. Now there was a reason why you had Visophecine and speak, for all his idiosyncrasies. There were far worse things to have than a devil on one shoulder. Well, the other one haduhGw? Rhisveri tapped his ws on the ground.

 Its too soon, almost.

 Almost. But such invitations nevere when they are wanted exactly, Rhisveri. We must adapt. That it is inconvenient to us?

 Damned inconvenient! Theres no way we can ept

 Discuss it, Rhisveri. Remember. Scale.

 Hmph. Then we need to elerate the Dawn Concordats war. Its going very well. Soonand once we have Cnfer, well have the Dragonthrone! A proper meeting ce! A proper safe ce, if we can restore it.

 Visophecin and the others nodded. Ryoka was one thing, but that was a longid n. Fithea sighed in longing, but she did not covet it as much anymore. The voices! Ohshe stretched out trembling, ancient limbs.

 Hope was closer than she thought. She wanted to see her kin again. Visophecin watched her, and Rhisveri. Yes, now was not the time to withdraw and hide. The only question was: who would gain? He resolved to meet this Wind Runner as soon as possible. After all, they were united behind Rhisveri and Ailendamus. But you could always make a private bargain.

 There was nothing in the world that could not be taken cynically. If you grew up seeing it, breathing treachery and learning gain and maniption, then in time, that was all you saw.

 No matter where it was, no matter what the gesture. A gentle hand stroking a lock of hair on a childs face. A smile, apliment. It was all artifice. Of course, then someone might protest that a mothers love was a genuine thing, that people trusted and cared for each other.

 To which Seraphel du Marquin and every member of Cnfers royal family would probably haveughed until they were sickif that was notpletely unbing of royalty.

 Do you really think your family loves you? Or are you, and those around you, simply better at lying to yourselves? It was all gain. If you raised children kindly, it was so they remembered, and because it reflected on you. If you followed thew, were pious and noble, it was because it behooved you to do so, rather than be seen as a thuggish brigand.

 It was a cynicism that ran beyond bone-deep. Crucially, thoughSeraphel sat on horseback, riding briskly and somewhat ufortably ahead of the royal carriage through the rocky pass.

 It was wrong. So the greatest lie was a trick on her, believing Cnfers family was the truth behind every household, only with the paint and gilding stripped away in private. The truth wasshe had seen loving families.

 Just not hers. Oh, it was there, in a strained, distant way. She had considerable affection for some, exasperated and crossed with the quibble of the month though it may be. She was just

 Changed.

 Very changed. Seraphel du Marquin rode through the rocky pass next to Kalivs border. They had just passed through that famously narrow gap, one of the few into Cnfer from Kaliv. The very ce that had been in the newswhere Cnfer had won historic battles against invading forces. Krawlnmaks Pass. A rather silly name for andmark of Cnfer and ce of so many military victories.

 Sullied by the Archmage of Deaths fall. It was, of course, garrisoned at this point in the war. The fortress which upied Kalivs side of the pass was a deterrent to attacking armies. Should they want to cross into Cnfer, they would have to fight both the fortress and the famously treacherous ground.

 Of course, it ran the other way too. Kalivs fortress was a not-so-subtle reminder to Cnfer; they could hold it if the two nations ever came to blows. Which they had not, because fighting was not usually a game Cnfer liked to y.

 Wit and diplomacy. Elegance and style. Seraphel du Marquin was not alone as she rode, nor was the royal carriage. In fact, a baggage train and countless servants were apanying the royal procession, not to mention nigh on a hundred Thronebearers of Cnfer.

 A huge number, but the capital had rotated them out of Cnfer in order to guard the [Princesses]. Nominally, they were there to support the war effort and reinforce the local garrison, but they were bodyguards.

 No one wanted to take chances. Indeed, as was so often the case, this was a move on multiple fronts. Seraphel could not guess her father and mothers exact thoughts, but she knew the game.

 Let me see. It would be a suitable gesture to Kaliv that we are contributing to the war effort, to let Aielef return. That I and Vernoue are here proves that, to other nations, we dont think Kaliv will fall. We also get to garrison one of Kalivs fortresses and prove that fact with our escorts. Oh, and it makes Ailendamus think something is happening. And

 Schemes. Cnfers royal crown yed them out like another person yed cards. Not always malicious, or even wrong much of the time. But it was always a scheme.

 It made other nations rather refreshing to Seraphel. Nadel had been a wonderful diversion. Charming, in love with its famous Lord of the Dance, and safe. Each kingdom of Terandria had its peculiarities. Seraphel had been to more than a few, and it was not just a definition of borders in some cases.

 For instance, Desonis really was marshy and wet. Aplete climate change, and still, they had a remarkable indoor life and a cheerful indifference to storms. Seraphel had once been asked if shed like to go for a swim as a minor hurricane was blowing through the area.

 By contrast, Nadel had an obsession with dance and music, to the extent that [Dancers] and schools were an eptable upation, and even the meanest inn or dive had better footwork than youd find in other nations major cities.

 Workers, and even [Scribes], could leave their jobs for a lunch, or break and shake out their exhaustion or stiffness in dedicated buildings. Seraphel had heard it described as a night club by some of the Lord of the Dances guests, despite them being open in the day, but she hadnt had a chance to meet them long

 A pity. There was so much Seraphel wanted to do, but Cnfer was at war, and she was still a [Princess] of Cnfer. On a royal tour to boost morale, in Kalivs border regions.

 In truth, Seraphel suspected it was partly to give Aielef a reward for her campaigning to raise support for months on end, and to let her go home. Seraphel and Vernoue? It might be a punishment. She had not exactly gelled well with her parents on her return, and while she had made a striking impact at the ball at Nadel, it was not in the way the [King] and [Queen] would have preferred.

 Well, Seraphel was a little rebel. And not the worst of the bunch, because Lyte was still out there.

 The Princesses of Cnfer return! Glory to the Eternal Throne and Mighty Kaliv! Hail the Griffin Queen!

 A voice from up ahead. Seraphel sighed. There went the peaceful quasi-silence of the ride. She had to own, she was a bit saddle-sore, but it beat being cooped up in the carriage with Aielef and Vernoue the entire way here. The Thronebearers were doing what they did best: impressing the local popce that hade out to see the procession and greet their liegedy.

 Aielef of Cnfer waved genteelly from her carriage, smiling as people called out her name. She hadnt done badly here; Seraphel saw people calling out to her, weing her back. Well, they would love the [Princess] who had married their Duke.

 He was not someone Seraphel had met more than a few times, but it had been a prestigious, eptable marriage in the Terandrian royalty bloodlines, and, importantly, a pact between Cnfer and Kaliv. It was customary for at least one of the royal family to wed to Kaliv, as their alliance was exceptionally important.

 Aielef, the 3rd Princess of Cnfer, had a small family here. She was Aielef the Fierce, known as the most outspoken, bravest of the Princesses of Cnfer, a fitting match for Kalivs tough kingdom.

 Or so the propaganda said, at any rate. In truth, Seraphel wondered how well Aielef matched Kaliv. Because the first thing she said as the carriages windows were rolled back up was quite audible to those nearby, if not the distant crowds.

 Disperse them immediately. I dont want to see them when I reach the manor. I dont want to breathe the same

 Ah, and there it was. Good old Aielef. Seraphel rolled her eyes.

 If you knew the Princesses of Cnfer by their gossip, each one had a peculiarity. Seraphel was Seraphel the Dutiful, Shardele was the Radiant, and so on. It was a good way for the people to separate therge royal household and identify with them.

 However, if you wanted to do it the way Seraphel did, you took them at their faults, not their imaginary virtues.

 Shardele smoked Dreamleaf like a [Charcoal Burner] smoked wood. Menisi had an obsession with things that went beyond mere scandalous, past depraved, and into horrific. Aielef hated the peasantry, a habit shed passed on to some of her sisters. Seraphel herself was known for once insulting one of her three brothers so badly he hid in his rooms for eighteen days.

 Vernoue was in her mid-twenties, and had yet to grow, but shed demonstrated an amazing ability to ignore people already and just read her magic books. Lyte? Lyte was a brat which epassed any number of issues.

 After her was Ellet, the youngest [Princess], the 7th, who was only twelve or something. She was cute, had been spared thepany of many of her sisters, and was doted on by her parents. Her fault wasthat she was charmingly naive and delightfnd had an objectionable habit of chasing the dogs around

 Alright, Ellet didnt have a major one. Yet.

 Aielef, nowshe was cleverer than Lyte. She never said peon where there was a chance it could be overheard. She was all smiles as she swept out of the carriage, waved, and blew a kiss outside the fortress. Then she hurried inside.

 I am exhausted from this life on the road. Ithe? Ithe, my sisters are here, as I wrote. Have them led to their rooms. I do not wish to speak to anyone. I will be in my observatory. Oh, and someone deal with the Griffin.

 She strode into her home, which doubled as one of Kalivs keeps, and Seraphel saw the whip crack as servants clustered around her. They bowed, keeping well out of the way as the other two [Princesses], the 4th and 5th, entered far more slowly. Seraphel waddled a bit; shed ridden all day and she wasnt used to it, still.

 Vernoue nced up from her open books and put a book leaf in between the pages. She fiddled with her reading sses, which she didnt really need, Cnfers [Princesses] being the product of good breeding, but thought made her look mage-like.

 Were here atst. Good. I was getting tired of Aielefs snapping.

 I should have thought youd have tuned it out, Vernoue.

 Seraphel murmured. The 5th Princess regarded her older sister. They had a fairly good rtionship as it went; some of the [Princesses] could not stand each other. Menisi and Shardele were a ssic, hence why they were never paired together if possible.

 Even I cant ignore her harrumphing. I almost wanted to ride, but I cant imagine sitting in a saddle for hours. You need a healing potion.

 Imfine, Vernoue. It builds

 Character?

 No, tough skin. Which one needs if they want to ride.

 Vernoue raised an expressive eyebrow as she shook her red hair. Hers was deeper, like ruby. Aielef dyed hers, while Seraphel had a lighter cast. Why would you want to ride?

 Of course, that was the question. But Seraphel was not about to borate as the nervous household fussed around her.

 Your Highnesses, I am Ithe, Princess Aielefs head of the household. If there is anything we can do, you have but to ask.

 A nervous woman bowed. Seraphel tsked quietly and Vernoue nodded, losing interest. Now here was a staff ruled by fear.

 Will we be dining with the Duke or the family?

 The Duke has departed to join the war front, Your Highnesses. I believe Her Highness would like you to attend a dinner in four hours, with her daughters?

 That is eptable, thank you. I believe Princess Vernoue and I would like to see our rooms. It has been a long journey.

 Of course, Your Highness

 They were escorted to their rooms, which were rather decent. Vernoue disappeared into hers, and Seraphel inquired as to Aielef and the family. She knew Aielef had a son, but he was probably in training or even serving as a [Squire] or some such.

 [Squire]? [Trainee], perhaps. It was a fact that Kaliv did not have a standing [Knight] order like many nations. Rather, it was folded into their mighty Griffin Rider forces and they had, of all things, a goat cavalry. But they didnt discriminate on the basis of royal entry.

 You had to bond with a Griffin or one of the giant, mountainous goats. If you just took from noble families, the odds were you wouldnt have enough riders.

 Which probably makes Aielef as happy as a crab in boiling water every time she has to host Kalivs warriors.

 Seraphel smirked at the thought of Aielef baring her teeth and having to be polite. She really felt as though royal blood conferred a kind of gentility, thought, and elegance unobtainable in other ways. She even had a Skill to bring that quality out in her chosen circle.

 Well, Seraphel had been here only once before. So the fortress was distantly familiar to her at best.

 A sprawling, verticalpound set into the rocky passes of Kaliv, which was a small nation, but a hugely vertical one. It was hard, even as Ailendamus armies poured in, for them to easily take Kaliv. They could win the lond fights, and they had with distressing ease. But they had to climb to assail the major cities on teaus and higher up the mountain. Taking the capital meant scaling small passes as Griffins dropped rocks on them or entire sections sufferedndslides.

 On the other hand, theyve de-winged even Kalivs Griffin Riders with their Greatbows, and I havent heard good news aside from the Order of Seasons joining.

 Seraphel did not like being so close to the front, even if it was Kalivs rear. She knew the crown was sending three [Princesses] to this fortress as a gesture of faith. Kaliv had to stay in the Dawn Concordat. If they folded, Gaiil-Drome and Cnfer were on the chopping block.

 Anyways, Seraphel could think on politics all day. She could wander Aielefs home all day. She did neither, because both were eminently boring. She could only do so much.

 She wished she could do more. She wished the war were over so perhaps she could go to Izril, see what that continent of Drakes and Gnolls was like, and find Lyte and give her a good yank on the ears. She wanted

 Something else. Seraphel was aware her parents had been trying to make another match for her, without much sess. She didnt me anyone interested; even the most desperate [Merchant] wanting to be partly royal had heard of Seraphel the Cursed. The woman who murdered husbands with bad luck.

 It was only two. Technically that brat died after he broke the engagement.

 Seraphel kicked down the corridor. Yet even she wondered. Noshe knew why each one had died. One was truly an ident. The other had been old age. Thest, and most recent?

 Ah. That was why her sisters thought she was so changed. Why Seraphel was different. She imagined that, before this, she would have ridden with Aielef, sniping with her sisters, then sat in her room as bored and miserable as could be.

 She honestly wasnt better off now, since she was still bored and had to do what Cnfers crown bid. But perhaps the difference was hope. She had been through a lot. And so, as Seraphel dismissed the servants, she walked Kalivs fortress.

 Not the higher levels, which were quite nice. Aielef had an observatory, with an actual ss roof to the stars and very un-fortress-like viewing tforms, that she might have some elegance in her life. Seraphel understood she didnt actually stay here as much if she could help it.

 Rather, Seraphel headed down. Down, alone, not waited on by anyone. Even Vernoue was probably ordering her special mana-infused tea, some snacks before dinnera [Princess] was used to being surrounded by servants, not going as far as to pick up anything that they didnt need to.

 Seraphel had been roughing it, as they understood it, ofte. So she could at least ride and walk about, even survive on something not prepared by a [Chef]. She was well aware that was not a [Warrior]s ability to rough it, but that wasnt what she wanted.

 If she wanted anythingthe [Princess] began to hum as she descended, going to a ce she knew probably existed.

 The 4th Princess of Cnfer had developed a few interesting hobbies ofte. The first was that she sang, not that anyone had ever known her to be particrly enamoured with singing. But as she walked down increasingly narrow corridors that even the servants didnt bother using, past the wine cer, she sang a simple song.

 Do, a deer, a Corusdeer. Rei, a ray of magic light

 It was a cute song. A childs song, adapted. Taught to her not just because it was fun, but as training. Hold the note properly.

 A friend had taught it to her. Seraphel sang as she came to her destination.

 The second hobby of Princess Seraphel, that concerned everyone who heard of it because it sounded distinctly like something the 2nd Princess might do, was this.

 She would seek out the deepest part of many fortresses, pces, or so on. The ce where more than armor or treasure or wine was stored.

 The crypt. The mausoleum. Theresting ce of honored dead. And she would walk it. She would pass by remains, carefully interred such that no [Necromancer] might awaken them, and look around.

 As if searching for something. She would not linger long. But she might say something, when no one watched her. A simplequestion.

 Hello? Is anyone there?

 Of course, no one answered her. What was strange was why she expected it.

 Aielefs family joined them at dinner. Two shy daughters, both in their teens. One was older than Ellet by four years.

 They were rather meek, perhaps counting themselves as inferior in terms of rank, being divorced from the royal family. Maybe it was how Aielef raised them; they were certainly no strident Lytes, but dutiful daughters.

 Nor did Aielef put on any pretense, not here.

 Youll be here for a week, two at most. Then you can begone, and I shall either be forced to sojourn with Kalivs aristocracy somewhere else as part of the war, or go on tour. Azole, dont fidget. And dont copy your aunts. Vernoue, must you read at the table?

 The 5th Princess didnt look up from the food she was eating while reading her spell tome.

 Youre not my mother, Aielef.

 Aielef, I dont believe I was ever introduced to your youngest daughter. Will you tell us how your family is doing?

 Seraphel smiled at a shy girl with dark purple hair. Purple, not the fiery red. Aielef had to dye her hair, but Seraphel guessed that one bloodline removed was enough to let her daughter keep her hair natural.

 Aielef gave her younger sister a long look.

 This is Ayuse. Ayuse, greet your Aunt Seraphel. Aumerth isnt here; hes apprenticed, safely away from the front.

 Hello, Ayuse.

 Seraphel smiled at the timid girl. She received a murmur in reply, which grew louder as Aielef stared at her daughter. It was the elder daughter, Azole, who kept staring at Seraphel as Aielef dined with the Princesses. They didnt talk politics. Nor, Seraphel suspected, would Aielef insist they dined together.

 Youll find the manor equipped for some of your needs. Just dont burn anything, Vernoue. Seraphel, theres not much to do here. We certainly cant ride or visit the city, but I shall have some of my friends over and I suppose you must attend.

 I may take you up on that, Aielef. But Ill find something to do. We are at war.

 Yes, and its dreadfully boring.

 Not worried for your husband, the Duke? Ronnel?

 They all had perfect memories for such things. Aielef pped her hand, chewing an inferior cut of meat that had the servants sweating as she red.

 I am sure he will be fine.

 No love in that statement. Vernoue raised expressive eyebrows at Seraphel from her book, proving she did listen in now and then. It was not missed on Aielef.

 You will do your part soon enough, Vernoue. I can only hope you manage to find a match!

 Do your part. By which she meant, get married, bear children, and forge a powerful alliance. Seraphel had done her part multiple times, with increasingly less value. She wondered if her family would marry her off. Surelyeven to one of the Thronebearers. She didnt want that. After the war endedperhaps Cara could?

 Vernoues response was to close her book shut. She red at Aielef. Yes, here was a less-than-ideal pairing of the [Princesses], but shed been the only one besides Seraphel that could be spared.

 If I have to marry someone, Aielef. Im a [Mage].

 Youre half-decent at best. If you were gifted, youd be at Wistram.

 Vernoues cheeks red. Seraphel bit her tongue.

 Im supposed to be the one with the barbedments, Aielef. What has you bothered?

 That damned baby Griffin scratched me on ourst tour and it hasnt healed! A minor infection! Me!

 Aielef snapped and showed them a red, faintly irritated line on her arm. Seraphel had seen far worse, although she was d the [Healer] had told Aielef to leave off healing potions.

 Its almost gone down. The poultice will take it away in a day, two at most. Leave off Vernoue. She could have gone to Wistram, but they never let go of their [Mages].

 Vernoue gave Seraphel a grateful nod and turned back to her elder sister.

 Thats right, Aielef. If I must get married, Id rather marryan Archmage! Yes, Ill marry a famous [Mage] from Wistram. Dont take me to task for applying myself. Im adding value to my marriage. What do you do, besides sip wine in your observatory andin about all the peasants below? And dont try to say Seraphels done less either; shes done her part more times than you!

 Aielef scowled at the unexpected team up. She pleated her napkin, eyes flicking between the two. It was then that her elder daughter interrupted.

 Your Highness, Aunt Seraphel?

 You dont need to use her formal title, Azole.

 Azole nodded. She looked at Seraphel, every bit the daughter Cnfer wanted. Hair red, skin wless, no noticeable quirks.

 Is itI dont mean to be rude, but mother says youve married multiple men and have lots of experience. Is itdifficult? I might be wed soon.

 Seraphels eyes opened wide and she nced at Aielef. Azoles mother went crimson, and Seraphel suspected that she had never thought Azole would repeat herments verbatim. Nor did Azole quite know what Seraphel took from the statement.

 The 4th Princess took her time in replying.

 Iam sure Aielef refers to my familiarity with matrimony. I cant say I know married life well. You are to be wed, Azole?

 I am of age to be engaged.

 She was seventeen. Seraphel gave Aielef a bleak look. Her mother scowled.

 Dont give me that, Seraphel. Ronnel and I have agreed on some fine, eligible bachelors. Not out of her age, with promising sses and backgrounds. Nothing like what you went through.

 Vernoues head slowly rose from her book, then ducked down behind it. Azole and her younger sister looked at Seraphel as the 4th Princess spoke, slowly.

 I would have thought youd give her more time.

 To do what, lose the best matches?

 Your daughters need not marry as a necessity of state, Aielef.

 Better that she has time to set up now than wait. Youll have a difficult time, bearing children and starting a family, Seraphel. Believe me. Im not saying any of it is your fault. Its bad luck. War, age, hunting idents, and a divorce. None of it is your fault.

 Butyou have a point, Aielef. Make it.

 Seraphel tapped her ring finger on the table in a way her sisters knew was a sign she was losing her patience. And thus control of her tongue. Aielef hesitated, but they were in the weeds now.

 I only mean that you dont get toin from having simple bad luck. Every one of us is to be married, even that runaway, Lyte. Take what youre given and make the best of it, I say.

 Azole looked at her mother, not nodding, but listening. Seraphel nced at her.

 And what if the marriage isntideal? As mine were certainly not. Death aside, divorce aside?

 You make it work. Do you think Im not aware of <iplications? Dead gods and eternal steps, Seraphel, you hold yourself like youre the martyr of all [Princesses]. Youre one of four of us. Weve all been married. We make it work. Shardele? Do you think she smokes Dreamleaf just because its fun?

 Absolutely.

 Vernoue muttered quietly. Her older sisters looked at her and she fell quiet. Seraphel knew what Aielef meant and her older sister went on.

 Menisiwell, shes the only lucky one of the lot! She has someone who fits her damned personality.

 True enough.

 Seraphel caught something Aielef had let slip. But that meant

 Then what about you, Aielef?

 Vernoue peeked around a page. Aielef sat still, and Seraphel looked at her daughters and cursed. She shouldnt have said it here, but in private.

 Incidentally, the serving staff were calm automatons this entire time, like Golems. They took tes, filled sses, and scurried out of the way. All of the diners ignored them; they were used to being watched.

 Seraphel was about to take it back, but Aielef replied in a calm voice.

 I have borne three children for Kaliv and Cnfer, Seraphel. I quite love them. Ronnel is a perfectly fine husband and we understand each other. It took a few years, but I do notck for my enjoyments. And I understand he has his.

 Vernoue sat bolt upright and Seraphel hoped her daughters didnt understand thatst part. She feared they did.

 Is this how you talk about marriage to your daughters?

 What, realistically? You do not need to love the man you wed. Or do you disagree, Seraphel? Can you honestly say you even liked any of the three you were betrothed to?

 Azole and Ayuse turned to Seraphel. She saw the elder daughter staring at her. This was, perhaps, the only moment Seraphel would see her before she was married. They did not often visit, and Seraphel could say any number of things.

 Most of them useless. Their fates were nearly written in stone. And yetSeraphels head rose, and Vernoue edged back from the table.

 Uh oh.

 She prepared a small barrier spell. Even Aielef hesitated, because she knew her younger sister.

 Seraphel, dont make a scene

 No, youre right, Aielef. I suppose I do seem rather dramatic to you. I didnt realize how you saw it. You have a very pragmatic approach to your situation. And I have not had the luxury of finding out how I would behave. And you are right.

 Seraphel looked past Aielef. Her eyes flickered, and she shook her head.

 No man I have ever married has loved me. That is eminently true.

 Her sisters, her nieces, even the staff were all looking at her. Seraphel spoke, seeing faces, ces

 A dead man grinning up at her from a bed. A child hand-in-hand with a [Shepherd]s daughtereach one, sometimes in intimacy. The things she did for her kingdom. Thest one, smiling up at her through eyes that were ssy, face covered in blood.

 They call me Seraphel the Cursed. But I thinkno man has ever loved me for being me. They have loved my body, loved aspects they saw in menever me. Nor did I have a choice. If that is a curse, I think it is not one women find rare.

 She looked pointedly at Aielef. The 3rd Princess mouth was a hard line. Seraphel went on.

 I have never been pleased by the matches made to me. But perhaps, then, I have never met someone I could truly love, because I am a [Princess] and they see my ss, or see my past. Besides, the good ones are all dead.

 She stopped and closed her eyes.

 I need not be jaded andcent about it. If I am to be married off again, Aielef, it should be the one I choose. I will keep searching for happiness, even though my value is long spent. And I encourage your daughters to fight, to find something more than value for their kingdom. Because it matters.

 Youd throw over your kingdom for your pettiness, Seraphel?

 The 4th Princess smiled like a viper.

 If it is that, or turn into someone as miserable as you, Aielef? Of course.

 Vernoue cast her spell just in time. Good old Seraphel. Words like arrows. She watched the first tureen sail over the table as Seraphel ducked.

 Well, that was an eventful dinner. Seraphel had her dress cleaned, and thought she wouldnt see Aielef all week. Her daughters?

 She spent that night watching the scrying orb, which had the fascinating recap of the Meeting of Tribes on. At least someone was as miserable as she.

 Oh, and there was the Singer of Terandria, one of her concerts. Seraphel smiled.

 Once this is over, I will find a way to meet you, if I have to hire you personally to tour Cnfer.

 Once this was overshe fell asleep, remembering the past.

 The next day, Seraphel du Marquin was prepared to find her own way to keep entertained when something happened.

 A flier came hurtling down from the skies as Seraphel was going on a morning ride. The Thronebearers cried out and hurried her back as they raised bows and shields, but it was a lone [Griffin Rider].

 Nevertheless, they kept their guards up, but the flier was headed for the fortress. Shouts arose and the defenders swarmed out as the Griffinnded.

 Wounded. Seraphel rode back and heard themotion.

 Absolutely not. Turn them away! I will not have it.

 Aielef was speaking to her head of the guard as the weary, wounded Griffin closed its wings and the rider held their hands up. To her vague surprise, Seraphel saw it was a young woman. And she called out, outraged.

 You bitch! Weve been dying for months and you wont even give us a ce to rest?

 Aielef turned white and the Thronebearers drew their des. Seraphel held up a hand. Well now, she liked this young woman already.

 Aielef, who is this?

 A criminal. This swine came here, demanding shelter for her group.

 Seraphel was mystified. Griffin Riders were held in great esteem in Kaliv. She couldnt imagine anyone turning them away, especially in times of war.

 Unlessshe thought of the one group that would not be wee. She turned and saw the crest on the light armor the Griffin wore, emzoned on its sides. Not an official crest, mind you. They couldnt afford embroidery, but the ck streaks of soot, marred with blood and damage to the armor, was in.

 Kalivs Wing of Shame.

 Vernoue muttered. Lillian Woods red at the three [Princesses], but had her hands up and was eying Kalivs warriors warily.

 Theyre not tond. Begone! You will find no respite here!

 Aielef snapped. Seraphel held up a hand.

 Aielef. I know theyre disgraced criminals, but the Griffin Prince fights with them, doesnt he?

 Yes! And all the brigands and murderers and waste! No one in Kaliv will give them wee.

 Well, some did, or else how had they existed for over a decade? Seraphel didnt know the Griffin Prince well, but everyone knew his story.

 If she was cursed, he was cursed. He had made a pact with dark, dark magic as a boy. They said he was immortal, but had paid such a price that his mother, the [Queen], had exiled him, and his name was never to be spoken aloud. Yet still, he flew Kalivs skies, redeeming criminals, shing with brigands and monsters.

 Andfighting Ailendamus armies. Seraphel pointed to the young woman.

 Ive seen the Griffin Prince fighting, Aielef. So have you. Hes killed more [Generals] and high-ranking warriors of Ailendamus than anyone else! Hes half the reason why they havent taken more ground!

 Seraphel, I am the ruler of this manor in the Dukes absence! I will not argue with you!

 Aielefs eyes shed fury from yesterday as well as the public altercation. Seraphel looked at the young woman and saw something familiar. She was probably a criminal, but her Griffin was wounded and she had a desperately furious look in her eyes. Outraged, not just angry.

 Very well, Princess Aielef du Marquin. You are the liegedy of thisnd, my elder sister, and have every right to refuse them.

 Aielef blinked. So did Vernoue. Seraphel the Reasonable was not any Seraphel they knew. Aielef almost rxed, but Seraphel was famous for her backswing. And here it came

 I am 4th Princess of Cnfer. By my authority, I demand the Thronebearers of Cnfer render aid! Set up outside of the fortress. Bring food, potions, supplies. They can camp.

 You cant do that!

 Aielef exploded, but Seraphel pointed at one of the Thronebearers. The unlucky [Knight-Captain] hesitated.

 Your Highness

 Do not bother to sequester any supplies from Aielefs domain, Knight-Captain Doniff. But I do demand you unload all of the Thronebearerss supplies, potions, and whatnot.

 Then how will they protect us?

 Seraphel gave Aielef a beaming smile.

 Why, I suppose they will have to prevail upon you. But that is not my concern. Do it, Knight-Captain.

 The Thronebearer hesitated. He looked between the two [Princesses]. He could spoil Seraphels designs easily by refusing and it was the 3rd vs the 4th Princess.

 However, he was still a warrior, as much as he was a Thronebearer, and he knew exactly what Seraphel did. If anything, the man was impressed that Seraphel saw it.

 I beg your pardon, Princess Aielef, but we cannot disobey the 4th Princess orders. We are technically assigned to ward Her Highness, Seraphel, and Princess Vernoue

 You are here to protect me!

 Aielef raged. Doniff stepped back hurriedly, and pretended to have gone deaf. Aielef went after him. Seraphel stuck her foot out.

 The wounded [Griffin Rider] was surprised to get aid. But she didnt waste time. She was clearly desperate, and shot into the skies as the Thronebearers indicated a ce tond. Seraphel hurried away before Aielef could seek vengeance, and hid behind a tree until the screaming stopped.

 In that way, she was able to see Kalivs Wing of Shame in person for the first time.

 They werenot an inspiring sight. Three dozen Griffinsnded, all wounded, and their riders were filthy, travel-worn, and exhausted. Some justy down. Griffins snapped as Thronebearers approached with supplies.

 Gleaming [Knights] versus the rag-tag brigands. But one group had be Ailendamus nightmare and racked up a kill count beyond belief.

 All thanks to one man. Seraphel spotted him as the young Human woman who hade to beg for aid dismounted.

 He was still a [Prince], after all. Butoh, such a strange one.

 Seraphel was no aura-expert, but she could tell the power of royalty and bloodline. He was likea child. A [Prince], but for a second, Seraphel swore he was a child as young as Aielefs younger daughter.

 Then she saw the tall man with his curled, short-cut hair, a weary expression, a warriors physiquebut devoid of any scars. Yet the way he walked and the wary respect Doniff gave him told Seraphel that here was a veteran of more battles than any ten warriorsbined.

 Because he did not die. For proof? She stared at his right arm. It wassteaming as a terrible acid ate away at it. So terribly hed kept his arm free from his fierce Royal Griffin, whoy panting. Yet though the acid ate away skin, bone, tendon, it regrew in moments. For a second she saw ck thread, knitting itself out of the airthen it turned to flesh and bone.

 Seraphel shuddered as the Thronebearers moved back. The young woman threw a healing potion on the acid and finally it stopped. The Griffin Prince had been grimacing mildly. Now he rxed as his arm reappeared in seconds.

 Not even a Potion of Regeneration could do that, surely. The man was younger than Seraphel, and his shoulders were broad. He was actually shorter than she expected, but a stocky [Prince] of Kaliv. But for the curse.

 He bowed as she approached.

 Your Highness, Seraphel du Marquin. You do me a great kindness by allowing us to rest here. Iam the Griffin Prince.

 He gave her no name. He needed no introduction. He just stood there, with a kind of shamed dignity. He obviously knew all the stories about him.

 Seraphel gave him the slight bow of royalty to royalty, casual, but she was fascinated. Indeed, she saw Vernoue approaching, warily, drawn in by the strange story of Kaliv.

 I am sorry that we cannot give you more aid, Griffin Prince. But take whatever you need. You have been fighting.

 A silly statement, and the young woman next to him snorted. The Griffin Prince justid a hand on her arm.

 Lillian. Forgive mypanion, Your Highness.

 Of course.

 Seraphel supposed someone else might have been offended, but there was a kind of familiarity with him. She had met warriors like him, and in situations like this. The Griffin Prince studied her, and then she saw recognition in his eyes.

 Princess Seraphel. The4th Princess. Do they call you? Forgive me again, but

 Yes. Seraphel the Cursed. I think we are kin, you and I. Though your curse is rather more dramatic than mine.

 The Griffin Prince stared at Seraphel, then he didugh, ruefully. And oh, if Seraphel thought her face had lines, if she looked in the mirror and saw sadness there?

 It was nothingpared to how weary he sounded. She had known women and men three times his age who had borne and lost children, lived through war and disease, who did not sound that sad. But he had nothing. Even Seraphel was still a [Princess]. His title was just a name.

 Well met indeed. I bear warning, if Her Highness will hear it. At least to the [Captain of the Guard], and the Thronebearers. To Kalivsmand and Cnfers throne itself, though we are bound for the capital next.

 He nodded upwards, towards the distant misty peaks. Seraphels heart beat faster and Vernoue and Captain Doniff came forwards.

 What is this news?

 The Griffin Prince looked bleakly at them.

 Kalivs londs are lost. Ourbined forces are routed and Ailendamus is sending three armies to march upwards. The Wing of Shame flies now in defense of the throne itself. You should brace yourselves. Fleeing [Soldiers] will being soon, with Ailendamus armies hot on their heels.

 For a second, Seraphel was speechless. She turned to Vernoue, and the 5th Princess eximed.

 But weve not heard of any battle on scrying orb! Thest weve heard, the Order of Seasons was trapped in a valley and theyre fighting today!

 The Griffin Prince nodded slowly.

 I have no doubt. Perhaps the Dawn Concordat will want to keep it silent. Ailendamus may, even. But it would not have been on the scrying orb, because they attacked under cover of night. They sent waves of stealthed fighters forwards, their own Griffinseven damned Hydras. Then the rest of their army. It wasnt even a battle.

 Seraphel looked in horror at the Knight-Captain, who was pale.

 I cannot imagine they would have attacked and won so easily, Griffin Prince. I do not doubt your words, buthow? Surely there were fortifications?

 The Griffin Prince shook his head.

 There were. I was there, and Cnfer, Gaiil-Drome, Kalivs ownI took to the air the moment I heard the horns. By then it was toote. Knight-Captain, Your Highnessesthey struck like lightning. It is the Great General who took the field who did it. He ishe has some kind of Skill or magic that tore through every formation. Overran us, as if we were children caught unawares by professional [Mercenaries]. We barely escaped, and only then because

 He gestured at his bare arm, ruefully.

 Seraphel was lost for words. This was a disaster. What would Cnfer do now? That army was the one which had held the ground so far. That it had lost in a single battle, even a sneak-attack?

 How long will you stay? Can you speak, sir Griffin Prince, or will you fly onwards?

 The Griffin Prince grimaced.

 Only a few hours. Less. We will take as much as we can carry. Eat. Lillian, get everyone fed. But then we must fly. Your Highness, I must advise you to retreat.

 Flee the pass? We have held armies here beforeand with the fortress, if the [Soldiers] rally here?

 Seraphel knew she was no [Strategist], but she repeated what shed heard, dumb with shock. The Griffin Prince shook his head.

 Were any other armying your way, I would say there was a chance, Your Highness. This one? No. No, its the same army weve fought. No more unique soldiers aside from the ones in stealth. Weve beaten worse forces back. Its that [General].

 A Great General of Ailendamus. To her knowledge, there were exactly two of the unique title of Ailendamus finest on the field. The Dame of the Hills, and this Great General. It seemed the titles were not for show.

 I will inform my sister and the [Captain of the Guard], of course, sir Griffin Prince. I thank you for the warning.

 He nodded, and Seraphel realized he was probably starved for drink and food too. She bowed, so that he might partake, and hurried over to Vernoue.

 Did you hear?

 Were in trouble. We might be leaving after all. Aielef and her daughters shouldnt stay, right?

 I dont think so. I cant imagine what this Great General is capable of, but the crown wont risk it. You tell Aielef. She wont want to turn away the Griffin Prince, not after this. Send a [Message] to the capital.

 And what will you do?

 Seraphel needed to talk to the Griffin Prince. This was as dire as shed ever known it. She had seen Ailendamus make war before. But this was a scale above the fighting, then. Although the Great Knight, the Dame of the Hills had been there. And she was a terrible, terrifying foe.

 Not one without honor, though. Seraphel was hurrying back to the Griffin Prince, but in truth, she didnt have the levels or Skills to change things. She had some, from what shed witnessed, but it sounded like they needed a miracle.

 And here was Kalivs miracle, their immortal protector, bested and wounded, flying to thest battles high above. Seraphel hadnt believed in miracles. Things that could turn a battle around.

 Noelictus has one. Perhaps. But its gone now andfar from here. The only other person she could think of was

 Cara. The Singer of Terandria. Yet neither was here. Neither was here. So Seraphel would have to do what she could. She had seen brave men, too, fighting against all odds. But theydied.

 She was walking towards the Griffin Prince, set to ask if he might perhaps know what could be done, had some insightperhaps to fly to the Order of Seasons instead and beg their full might? They were not far! Or Pheint or

 She never got to speak to him. The young man had been eating ravenously as his Wing of Shame tended to their wounds. Yet he raised his head incredulously and turned to the north.

 Impossible. Impossible!

 He cried out. Seraphel saw him sprint towards his Griffin, calling its name. The fierce beast spread its wings, shrieking, as everyone, Thronebearers, [Princesses], and the Wing of Shame themselves looked north. The Griffin Prince took to the air, rising, then he cried out, a note of incredulityand horror. He pointed, and it took those on the ground a moment to see.

 Then they saw it. Princess Seraphel du Marquin knew the fighting was days to the north. Even if thebined army were smashed, the Griffin Princes flight was far faster than any rider could hope to achieve. And yet.

 And yetsomething came out of the hills in the distance. Figures. Riders, rather. Even a few people on foot. Seraphels eyes opened wide. She saw them blur across the ground, so fastthen suddenly jump. Not physically, but jump across thendscape, mid-flight.

 She didnt understand what she was seeing. They were moving so fast. What kind of movement Skill was this? And yet, it wasnt just them. She saw the air change. Were thosebirds? Why was the sky rippling in color, from blue to cloudy to orange then ck? As if it was going through the cycle of day and night in a moment.

 Then the first wave of riders crashed forwards, within less than a mile and, suddenly, Seraphel heard distant, ring horns. Shouts. The Griffin Prince jerked in the air and she saw a foremost rider, a [Knight], no, an armored half-Elf, riding towards her, armor battered.

 Can you not hear? Damn you all! Whats going on? Theyre behind us! Our [Message] spells

 He was roaring in a hoarse, hopeless voice, as if hed been shouting for nigh on an hour. His voice was magnified by a spell, and Seraphel flinched as it bounced off the canyon walls. She recoiled, and Vernoue stumbled.

 [Message] spells! Nso many! They sent it atthere are hundreds

 A wave of birds screamed past the Griffin Prince, then saw him in the air and banked, flying in every direction. His fierce mount snapped and had a mouthful of one of them. Seraphel felt something snap around her, and the reverberation of whatever it was stunned her.

 As the half-Elf slowed, seeing the statues of people finally move, Seraphel looked down. Not at the first wave of fleeing soldiers, so close, already reaching them atst, the Dawn Concordats shattered army.

 Not at the animals, or at Vernoue, who finally got the desperate [Messages] that had gone unanswered, piled up anding in all at once. Not even at the Griffin Prince, hanging in the air, staring at thend-forces who had caught up, against all logic, to his faster force.

 She stared down atthe grass. The grass that the half-Elf rode over. It was nothing that should be too obvious, unless you had just seen it. Thenwell, it had rained. It was still fading summer. So she saw a noticeable change over however long it had been.

 The grass? It was nearly twice as high. It had been shorter a moment ago. Yet all had grown, the [Soldiers] fled, an army been routed due to strangews. A dire rule.

 A Great General of Ailendamus power. The Griffin Prince, circling overhead, had it at the same time as Seraphel, as the fortress suddenly came to arms, and war swept closer. After all, you could have a fast army. One that could increase in power. One with skin like stone, or that killed magic.

 You could have many things, but what did every [General], [Strategist], and warlord love? What was the key to a hundred battles, if only you could clutch it in your hands? Seraphel looked past the [Soldiers].

 How did it go? Something about turning mountains to dust? The final warrior that killed all? Could bring nations down? What wasthe one thing Ailendamus had? Though Seraphel could not know that. What they ruled, or at least, did not fear like mortals did?

 Time.

 Authors Note: So quick. Not my break. Thats long-awaited and I amdeeply in need of it.

 Huge writing is taking its toll on me, and I need the break. But as I noted at the top, the edited chapter is due for the 16th, as I get off the break. Actually, I might need one more chapter to set it all upwell, Ill figure it out.

 Im not sure if Ill release the first draft, or wait for the edited version, in which case The Wandering Inn is on break until the 19th for Patrons, and you get a free extra chapter at random. I will let you know, but I am sure it will improve quality immensely!

 I will not say much now. I have pushed quite hard this month, and we are moving at well, an on-target pace. But like lightning! Like I have a time machine! Which I dont, and really want!

 If there are any aliens or extra-dimensional people, please consider giving me a time-thingy so I can deliver more quality at my leisure. No? Damn. Well, then, you all get to wait. And if they had a time-thingy, theyd just skip to whenever the entire story is done rather than give one to me

 Sigh. Anyways, see you in a bit! Look forwards to another edited chapter and give me your energy as I rest! Thanks for reading!

 Lyte by /zanic

 

 

 Erin, Horns Battle, and more by /user/TheMrMomo/posts

 

 

 

 

 

 Rabbiteater and Casino Fight by Brack!

 DeviantArt: /shurkin/gallery/

 Ko-Fi: /Brack_Giraffe

17kNovel

Interlude Perspective and Past