The Wandering Inn

Here was the question, as Wall Lord Ilvriss dodged a chamberpot. They were raining down from Invrisils houses, and people were taking pot-shots from the balconies.

<i>Go back to the south, Drakes!</i>

<i>Eat shit, Wall Lord!</i>

Their aim wasnt the best in most cases, but there was always someone with a throwing Skill. Ilvriss was an ordinary dodger. He was a warrior and could strafe left and right, even leap left and duck with amazing quickness.

But he had no art. Nerul had art.

For such a huge Drake, he had a Saliss-quality dodge that came from having been hit with projectiles when representing Salazsars interests. He fielded a chamberpot from the left, pirouetted out of the way of a splashing pot of liquid in a twirl

Osthia got splashed, and her shield did nothing. The Drakes were in full retreat, and the Rubirel Guard had just met with the real salt of the earth of Izril. And the nightsoil, and the yellow water

<i>Sentiment was against them, and it was all Erin Solstices fault. </i>However, even the angry citizens whod come to harass Ilvriss had to admire how well Nerul dodged.

How are you <i>doing</i> that, Nerul?

Ilvriss shouted as he retreated and nearly got a mouthful of something unforgettable.

[Improved Evasion: Projectiles]. You think dodging arrows is nasty, Nephew? Arrows just make you <i>bleed.</i> I dodge sepsis.

Ilvriss didnt reply. He just ran for it. Behind him, the jeers grew louder.

<i>Drakes dont run! Get back here!</i>

<i>No Drakes in the north!</i>

<i>No one wants your kind here! Get lost! </i>Oh, hello, Miss Wyldbark. How are you doing?

There was something slightly ironic about watching a bunch of Drakes running for the hills while waving at your half-Elf friends. Then again, some of the half-Elves were throwing shit too.

The north was making a stand. Against Salazsarian influence, against the Drakes coming into the north, and again, it was all Erins fault. She had posted the <Quest>, but she had also posed a question, whether she knew it or not.

It was more than just whether or not you liked Drakes. It was the question of this era, and it was the refrain behind every whistling stone hurled at Ilvriss and the sounds of the day.

The question was implicit, but Mihaela asked it directly to a screaming City Runner she was holding over the edge of The Adventurers Haven.

They were nearly at the edge of the known continent, in Manus domain, having headed southwest from Pallass. There had been a number of issues, but Larracel and her high-level guests had dealt with mostly diplomatic issues.

Soon, though, the Guildmistress of First Landing would have to stop here. She was no adventurer, and while Couriers would be needed in the new world, there were no places to run to, yet.

Runners were messengers, not explorers. Sothe Haven would continue on, and Mihaela would say goodbye to Larracel once again, until the time came for them to meet again.

She wasnt unhappy about it. In fact, Mihaela was so calm and adult about the situation that she had hold of a City Runners ankle and was dangling her about thirty feet off the ground. If she dropped the young woman, the snow would probably cushion her head.

Probably.

Mihaela wasnt that strong, but the girl wasnt that heavy. She was thin, and frankly, Mihaela wondered how shed been a candidate for a Courier at all.

No fighting abilities. [Double Step] is your only Skill. Ive seen your record, Persua Mavva. Youre a coward, and your runs have your friends hanging about. And you also have a record of harassing other Runners.

<i>Dont drop me! Dont drop me!</i>

She was, at least, fairly sharp. Most people might say let go, and Mihaela would do just that. Mihaela just shook Persua, and the screaming grew louder.

The guests and staff of the Haven watched, not having much else to do today. And amazingly, within a mere hour of Persuas arrival, no one said to Mihaela that she was going too far. Persuas personality had rubbed off on people like a yeast infection.

Mihaela had, accordingly, run Persua through a grinder. She had kicked Persua off the Haven eight times in her training test, and the City Runners eyes were flashing with wild fury.

<i>She was more dangerous than she let on.</i> Most City Runners would give up after being kicked around by Mihaela, but the Guildmistress understood Persua. A rabid weasel thatd come at your ankles and bite to the bone even if you ripped off a limb.

Ryoka Griffin. What happened to her?

<i>I didnt do</i>

Mihaela dropped Persua. The screaming City Runner flashed towards the ground, and Mihaela <i>caught</i> Persuas leg with effort on a lower floor. She had run downstairs, intercepted Persua, and caught her within a split-second.

What was that?

IIve changed!

Sure you have. Because if you didnt, I would throw you into a pit of Crelers. Got it? I have your file here

Mihaela had the paperwork spread out on one knee, and she wrote one-handed on it in huge words as Persua tried to get free. She could sit up and actually curl up into a ball, but Mihaelas grip and arm were a steel bar she couldnt pry free.

<i>Persua Mavva.</i> Noted for <i>serious misconduct</i> by Mihaela, Guildmistress. Further infractions will result in permanent revocation of her City Runner status and exile from the Runners Guild fortwo thousand years.

You cant do that! Ive been a good Runner for

Mihaela just shook Persua until the City Runner fell silent. Then she looked down. Persua was red-faced, bruised from the test, and yetshe still looked distraught at the idea of not being a Runner any longer.

I dont like you. Fairs fair, I dont like Ryoka. But I dont like <i>corruption</i> in my Guild. Normally, I let the local Guilds deal with it, but you got away with it. Until you met me. If you break my rules again, I will find out. I am watching you. Congratulations. Your life is ruined. No one will run with you again and make life easier. I am writing that down, by the way. <i>No one is allowed to deliver for Persua Mavva or credit her with a run.</i>

Persua was actually crying with fury. <i>This was so unfair! </i>It was an amazing talent. But she was white-faced now, listening. And Mihaela looked down on her and sighed.

I must be getting old. Do you know why?

W-why?

She had actually curled up to grab Mihaelas arm. She <i>was </i>flexible, like a [Tumbler]. She clung like a barnacle to the Guildmistress arm, and Mihaela was getting tired. But she kept her arm raised, bracing on the balcony.

Because Im going to give you a second chance. Because I believe <i>everyone</i> deserves a chance to be a Runner. It makes worthless people into useful ones. Youve had your second chance, and third and fourth, I bet. But because Im soft with age, Ill give you one more chance. In fact, you might even make Courier within the year. Youd like that, wouldnt you? I cant waste someone with a promising Skill, after all.

Persuas eyes widened with sudden hope. <i>Maybe this trip had been worth it after all! </i>If even Mihaela Godfrey saw her potential

She mistook Mihaelas smile for one of a grandmotherly figure who saw the good in people. If it was a grandmothers smile, it was the one who pushed chicklings out of the nest to see if they could fly.

W-what do IIll do anything to prove myself, Guildmistress Godfrey. Ive turned over a new leaf. I can change. I <i>will</i> change.

Strange. Mihaela almost believed that Persua wanted to change. She seemeddesperate. Like a City Runner seeking something. Glory. They were all like that, but it was almost like Persua had a vision in mind. <i>As if someone had shown her who she could be.</i>

Mihaelas grandmotherly smile widened. And she wrote on the file she was going to copy to every Runners Guild across Izril.

This is going to be my note in your record, Persua. And every Guild is going to take this to heart. One. You are banned from working in the north unless you get a delivery thats taken you there. You have too many friends in the north. No friends, no help.

H-huh? I have to run with <i>Drakes?</i>

Youd better get that tone out of your mouth. And I have faith youll make a name for yourself in the south. Courier within the year.

Really? You see it too?

Persua panted, clinging to Mihaelas arm with hope in her eyes. The Guildmistress nodded. She wrote with a flourish.

Thats your ambition, right?

Yes! I can be a Courier! An amazing one!

Excellent! In that case, you are <i>also</i> prohibited from taking any delivery below Courier-rank. Ill let you take bounties that are open to City Runners, but Courier-grade. Thats generally emergency runs to people in trouble or scouting Creler nests.

Persua stopped talking. Her mouth opened, but she made a strangled, screaming sound. At this point, even the other Runners listening to Mihaela winced.

<i>That was suicide.</i> And harsh! Even experienced Couriers took easier missions. You could, in theory, make a living on only Courier-difficulty assignments, but

<i>Ill die! You cant do this!</i>

I just did. Copy this to everyone.

Mihaela passed the sheet off to a [Receptionist] then smiled at Persua.

You want to be a Courier? Once you make Courier, Ill rescind the order and even clear your record. But until then, youll be a credit to the Runners Guild or die.

<i>I wont survive those kinds of runs!</i>

Probably not. So level or die. Or <i>quit.</i>

<i>You cant</i>

Persua tried to pull herself up, but Mihaelas stare silenced her. The white-haired Courier spoke in piercing tones as she levered Persua up and stared her in the eye.

<i>This is my last chance for you, Persua Mavva. </i>By rights, I should put you in chains, but proving some of the things alleged against you is impossible, and the Watch isnt smart enough to link all the things youve done. So this is Runners Guild justice. If you want to clear your record, run hard. Run <i>better</i> than you ever have in your life. Now, get out of my sight.

So saying, she tried to throw Persua into the snow. Hard. But the screaming young woman was clinging to her arm, and Mihaela tried twice, but Persua refused to let go. She was screaming, pleading, crying, and begging. At last, Mihaela used her other arm to lever Persuas arms from hers. And Mihaela shouted the question outright.

The question of the day.

<i>Do you want to stay like this forever? </i>Are you fine being worthless, you brat? Do you <i>want</i> to be a Courier or a worthless, scheming rat?

Persua froze and stared at her. <i>Were you fine with this? With how things were?</i>

That was the real question. Whether it was your level, running, or just <i>how </i>the world wasMihaela Godfrey saw it. She met Persuas eyesthen lifted her overhead and threw her into the snow.

The screaming City Runner hit a snowdrift and made a satisfying <i>whumph</i> sound. Then Mihaela turned away for a hot drink. Below, as the Haven rolled away, Persua lay, stars spinning around her head, despairing, faced with impossible missionsand the question remained.

<i>Were you going to change? Were you able to?</i>

Change was hard. Everyone thought they could change, but change was never an open door marked head here for a real, tangible improvement to your life.

It was uncertain, and normalcy weighted the dice. The status quo hired bodyguards. The nobles of Izril, similarly, opposed Wall Lord Ilvriss entry to the north in no uncertain terms.

But they did it with more than words. They did it with public sentiment. Invrisil was already hostile towards Ilvriss. It might be that they could be seen as stupid, the public or commonfolk. But it was hard to form a different opinion when all the information you got was

Well, biased. For instance, in a tavern in the city of Wales, you could hear a dialogue that sounded something like this:

A friendly [Bard] would sit down at a table where a few people were having a convivial drink on the weekend. And he clearly had an axe to grind, but he also brought a snack bowl over and was given a grudging welcome. His opening question would be with a huge frown.

Have you heard about that Wall Lord thats trying to get into the north?

The other diners would look up, and someone would take the bait.

What Wall Lord? A Drake?

Thats right. From the Walled Cities, no less. One of em is trying to get access to the north. And after what they did in the summer!

A pause. Then, a working man in a [Journeyman Carpenter]s outfit would lean over.

What did they do in the summer?

Oh, the fires? The poisoning? Didnt you hear about it? Their agents were setting those forest fires, poisoning peopletens of thousands of us died, and now theyre trying to come north. Wall Lord Ilvriss. Hes at that <i>inn.</i>

Really? And someone let him through?

The other listeners, who would have only a passing knowledge of the south and could probably name most of the Walled Cities, would listen to the [Bard] repeating a litany of grievances. Everything from the old wars, the annual Bloodfields battles, to actual events like the saboteurs in the summer.

Forming a different opinion than the large consensus would require a working knowledge of Human-Drake relations, and there were very few voices who pointed out reasonable counters like the Meeting of Tribes incident or the fact that Ilvriss was trying to enter as a private individual, not as an army of arrogant Drakes.

To be fair, it was easy to repeat a lot of things Drakes <i>had</i> done, but it was also easy to tar Drakes with the same brush. There was little nuance between Salazsar and Manus in most peoples minds. They were Walled Cities. They were Drakes.

There were a lot of good reasons to dislike Drakes. But it did tend to <i>blend</i> together. The part where they sabotaged their enemies and killed people in the north? Good critique. The issues with their relationship with Gnolls? A very real, historical event.

There should be laws against them entering Invrisil or passing the border. Magnolia Reinhart is a fool

Lots of murmurs of agreement in the group furiously arguing about the very issue of Drakes in the north. They were a bunch of patriots to the north. Not to any kingdom, but general patriots.

They had no kingdoms, and so it was different from being a Terandrian that claimed Avel was the best kingdom. It was just the north and thus humanity and the Five Families that needed defending.

Another City Runner adjusted his tombstone hat and his leather armor, crimson as snow melted on it, as he listened silently to the others debate. They werent his best friends, but Delanay dArtien needed backup. Hearing their conversation about the Wall Lord issues was illuminating.

I agree. They should also ban marriages with Drakes and Humans. Itswell, its disgusting. Not just them. Gnolls<i>furry people? </i>Drowned Folk, definitely Selphidswho else?

The conversation paused a second, and someone else frowned as they adjusted their position in the saddle.

Why marriages? Im fine with a ban on Drakes.

Why <i>not</i> marriages? Its unnatural. Are you going to sleep with a giant lizard? What kind of a Human does that? If they want to, let them go south. We dont need them.

Fair point.

Delanay rolled his eyes skyward. Then he broke into the conversation.

What about half-Elves?

The group paused, and several looked over at Delanay, annoyed.

Half-Elves are fine.

Why? Theyre the worst of the lot.

Delanaydont start with your quibbling. How are <i>half-Elves</i> worse than Drakes? They look mostly like us but for the pointy ears!

A young [Knight] snapped back. He was from Clairei Fields and was the one who objected to the interspecies marriages. Delanay was riding, not running, in the company of nearly two dozen young men.

They were on a mission, and the village was close to them. A more patient [Lord] was riding ahead, sighing as he looked back at them. Delanay suspected Lord Pellmia was running out of patience <i>fast</i> with him and the group of young men. But his son, Lord Gilam, was right dab in the middle of his compatriots, and they were humoring Delanay, so he tried to be sociable.

However, the Emergency City Runner was somewhat famous in the north for his sharp tongue and sharper temper. And his smile was edged.

Well, half-Elves always produce half-Elf babies. In that sense, their bloodlines are more corrosive than Drake and Human marriages, which are about fifty-fifty on whether a Humans born.

With <i>scales!</i> Delanay, stop being a prat.

One of the other young [Warriors], a retainer of House Quellae, snapped at Delanay, but carefully. Delanay was a [Lord] of House dArtien, and even if they were a noble family, there was such a thing as decorum.

Delanay was unmoved, however. His eyes were pale yellow, and they glinted like watchlights as he touched the brim of his hat, a style from Noelictus and their Hunters.

All Im saying is that if you want to talk <i>purity</i> in bloodyoud best watch out for half-Elves. Bad as Goblins and Drowned Folk. Lets ban marriages on all of em. Isnt that fair, Sir Royald?

Royald refused to engage with Delanays premise. The Izrilian [Knight] just spat into the snow after lifting his visor.

Delanay, youre a loudmouth. Stop advocating on the side of the scalies. If this is all a waste of time, Ill report to my Order that youre insane.

Lord Pellmia is humoring me.

My father humors <i>everyone.</i>

Gilam snapped back a bit too loudly. Because at that moment, Lord Pellmia rode back with his guard and cuffed Gilam on the shoulder.

A feature of mine you should take to heart, Gilam. All right, thats enough complaining. Theres a single Drake walking about Invrisil, and you all pretend the sky is falling. Its cold, and we are about a task. Need I report to <i>your</i> families you cant take a hunt seriously?

Chastised, the young men sat up and rode smartly after Lord Pellmia. Delanay nodded at the [Lord of Love and Wine] and got a fairly reproving nod in return.

Thats our village, Lord Quellae?

Pellmia nodded.

Correct. And before you speak, Delanay, we will do this <i>my </i>way. You may perform your experiment, but these are my people.

Absolutely, Lord Pellmia. And thank you for hearing me out.

The [Lord] sighed.

Someone must, if only so you stop shouting about it. What happened to the Byres family was unconscionable. Tragic. I suspect its the Circle of Thorns, but we shall give you your attempt again. The last five villages were all clean.

His remarks were pointed, but Delanay just ducked his head.

Lord Quellae, its not intrusive as you saw, and so long as you are touring your lands

Yes, yes. Alright. <i>Gilam</i>, would you greet the village? Properly, with gifts and a lack of attitude?

His scowling son was dismounting as the villagers appeared, wary of the armed group, then cheering when they saw it was Lord Pellmia Quellae.

The [Lord] of these lands had brought gifts, an armed escort, and was touring his settlements. Ostensibly to see how they had held up in the winter, but after Gilam had presented the gifts with a somewhat-adequate attitude, the [Lord] confided in the gathered group he had an ulterior motive.

As you may be aware, House Byres suffered an extraordinary attack about a month ago. Their keep was burned, and mystery assailants nearly killed Lord Yitton and Lady Shallel. The flowers of Izril have taken this matter very seriously, and as part of House Quellaes part, I am conducting a simple questioning of people to ascertain if anyone has information on the attack.

The [Headman] looked confused and worried as the villagers ofDelanay consulted his mapRanmeid murmured.

Do you think anyone <i>here</i> would have knowledge of that, Lord Quellae? I assure you, we havent even had contact with House Byres traders. Not much call for silverwork here.

Pellmia smiled at him.

Of course not, but a simple truth stone test for any information will not take long. Especially given that each noble is doing the same.

Wellsome of them. Delanay knew for a fact that Pellmia was one of the more conscientious ones. And in truth, Pellmia wouldnt have gone this far afield if it werent for Delanay. The [Lord] raised his voice as he glanced at the City Runner.

We also have a second, minor test. Lord Delanay dArtien has also requested his methods for sussing out the attackers. It will not take long, but may I call everyone present here? Even those working afield. It should only be three hours, tops, to clear the entire village.

Three damn <i>hours.</i>

Gilam groused loudly, and when the villagers of Ranmeid realized theyd all have to pass the truth stone test and whatever Delanay was up to, they grew a bit unhappy.

Pellmia was a popular [Lord], especially with his new class and television presence, and plenty of people came up to him to ask what it was like and for advice. But others were understandably upset.

<i>Tests?</i> Are we going to be asked if weve ever committed a crime? Can a [Lord] just walk into our village and interrogate us?

A man in a huge travellers cloak wearing gloves and even carrying a black scarf made Delanay look twice. The village of Ranmeid was several hundred strong, but it was mostly a farming community.

<i>Quiet. </i>But this man had decidedly nicer clothing, and while it was cold and anyone could bundle up, he was trying to stay in the crowd.

Shut up, Litigos.

The headman was familiar with the rabble rouser, and Lord Gilam took offense to the question.

We are the nobles who protect your lands. Maybe we <i>should</i> ask if youve committed any crimes. Sounds like a guilty conscience.

He strode over, and Litigos backed up. But Gilam was a classic reverse helper. His attempt to solidify his fathers position put several of the villagers backs up. He was presumptuous, rude, and had made it clear that he considered Ranmeid a backwater village.

Why are we being lined up and questioned? Headman Rossk, you can refuse him.

The villages [Hedge Mage] folded her arms as she glanced sharply at the truth stone that one of Lord Pellmias men was using to ask two questions of the villagers. Rossk raised his hands, but one of the [Farmers], a man who looked fondly at Pellmia, nudged her.

Calm down, Eteste. Its just a truth stone. You can hear them asking about the burning of House Byres. If we dont know, we dont know.

He was lining up to get the job over with, and it took literal seconds to pass someone, whereupon they had a drink from some apple wine that Pellmia had brought. The [Headman] wiped at his brow despite the cold, and he nodded.

Lord Pellmia isnt doing anything unusual. Please, letswhat is <i>that?</i>

Everyone turned as Delanay produced something, and even Gilam rolled his eyes.

That one isnt my idea. Delanay, you idiot

Just let me work, Gilam. Miss, one moment.

Delanay turned to the first woman whod passed Pellmias truth stone test. He held something out, and she backed away.

What is that? Is it magic?

No, just metal. Its silver. All I do is hold it to your arm. Its part of the tests.

It was a rod of pure silver on a single grip. Delanay had pulled it out of House dArtiens storage without his family noticing, and there would be trouble when they got wind of this. Pellmia gave him an exasperated look as the villagers suddenly got twice as wary.

Wh-why near my skin? Its <i>cold.</i>

The woman was reluctant to let Delanay press it to her skin, but he barely looked at her skin before nodding.

Its just a test, Miss.

For his mysterious enemies. Thats Delanay dArtien, Miss. One of the flowers of Izrils most famous conspiracists. Hes been like that all his life and not hurt anyonewell, aside from several young [Ladies] he moved to tears. Remember the gathering of the Five Families ten years back?

Delanay ignored that, though he flushed. Pellmia told some of the jesting young men to be silent, but hed been there.

House dArtien had several notable traditions, including the armor they had carried from Noelictus. They had once been noble Hunters of Noelictus, and their talents had resurfaced during a nasty periodthe Reign of Bloodin Izril.

They had never forgotten their enemies, and silver and the crossbow that Delanay carried were hallmarks of their watchfulness. But their foe was dead, and but for House Byres and a few others and their traditions, no one watched for the night anymore.

Even Ylawes Byres treated his familys old foes like interesting stories to be told around a fire. But a young boy growing up in his familys halls and hearing their stories had <i>believed.</i>

Once, a young Delanay had embarrassed his entire family at a gathering of the Five Families by demanding, to the heads of the Five Families, that each one pass a test to ensure they werent bloodsucking fiends from antiquity.

He had madeother accusations later in life, which had never amounted to his quarry. Sometimes, to minor thefts or a [Lady] hiding a venereal diseasebut not corruption of the blood.

There was a reason Delanay was an Emergency Runner, not a [Lord]. This latest incident might get him actually banished, but Pellmia had heard Delanays reasons, and because it was House Byres and suspicioushed let Delanay come with them to the last five villages.

Now, the complaints were becoming an actual debate as Delanay checked everyone after the guards. Hed have to do this hundreds of times, and despite his best will, he was embarrassed and uncomfortable from both his peers and the villagers nervous looks.

<i>He didnt really want to find out he was right. </i>No, he was just making sure. He was doing this because he <i>believed.</i>

That was how Delanay thought of it. He didnt want to be right, because if he was <i>right,</i> they were all in danger.

But that, of course, was also a kind of lie. Delanay had grown up in the shadows of House dArtiens legacy. If you could have put him under a truth spell, he might have admitted that it would be nice.

Niceto be needed. Nice for his visions of the glories of the past to become a reality. Nice to be <i>called. </i>His ancestors had lived and died, bemoaning the loss of their finest hours. Forgetting why their own forefathers had rejoiced the day they were no longer needed.

I will <i>not</i> be tested like some cattle for ringworm.

Litigos, the stranger in his full-cover garb, Eteste, the [Hedge Mage], and Rossk, the [Headman], were in a full argument in the village square with people taking sides. Lord Pellmia was letting them sort it out, but Litigos was growing agitated, and Delanay was watching him out of the corner of his eyes.

In truth, hed picked this village along with several others because they were out of the way, and a few old incidents had stood out to him. How would you track down the foe? Well, if this village had a large transient population despite being out of the waymysterious illnesses with cattle or people reporting burglars or other unsavories at night were all clues.

Hed run across Izril searching, but seldom had the chance to conduct this test in the open. Hed tried, but the reaction of the villagers showed why no one was keen to let someone wave a weird silver rod at them.

Im leaving. Call me a traitor if you want, but we dont have to stand for this. This isnt Terandria.

The man snapped at last and tried to leave the village with a group of his friends. The [Headman] barred his way.

Litigos! Youve got nothing to hide

Whats going on with him? I think he <i>does</i> have something to hide. <i>Father!</i>

Gilam called out, and he and his friends, younger [Knights], [Retainers], and [Warriors], rode over. Litigos tensed, and Delanay noticed he was armed with a sword

The villagers backed away as the man put his hand on his sword. Gilam drew his quickly, and Pellmia whirled.

<i>Gilam!</i>

Youre not even a villager, are you? What are you hiding?

The man didnt unsheathe his sword, merely backed away as Rossk shouted for calm. He was retreating when Eteste raised a glimmering hand.

Let Litigos go. Hes done nothing that concerns you, Lord.

She aimed at one of his guards who was training a bow at Litigos feet. The air grew ugly, and Delanay tensed, a gloved hand inching towards his crossbow. He doubted Gilam was good with a sword; Delanay had practiced shooting, but this would be a disaster if

<i>Enough! Gilam, put down your sword! </i>And youhalt!

Pellmia roared and thrust Gilam to the side, nearly knocking him off his horse. Litigos froze, and the [Lord of Love and Wine] and his guard surrounded him. Delanay hurried over, and Pellmia conducted a brief test himself.

We are after the people who attacked House Byres. <i>Nothing else,</i> Mister Litigos. I do not care if you haveunsavory connections. A [Lord] understands that sometimes, someone might procure items without paying trade tariffs. Or perhaps you have another class. Making arrests is not in my interest. Do you know anything about House Byres attack?

No, Lord Quellae.

The truth stone flashed white, and Pellmia stepped back. He nodded, and Delanay approached. Litigos flinched, but someone rolled up his sleeve, revealing a tattoo.

Hes part of the gangs! Father, youve found a [Rogue]!

Gilam crowed as he saw it, and Pellmia gave him a huge frown.

And if he is, I saw nothing, Gilam. Anyone could have that tattoo. What makes it the gangs?

Its

Gilam hesitated, and Delanay raised his eyebrows. <i>He </i>recognized the tattoo that told you the man was part of the Wharf, the underground blackmarket gang. Strange that he was <i>here.</i>

Rossk was sweating bullets, and maybe the Wharf had a storehouse here that the village benefited from. But Pellmia just glared at his son.

We are ignoring it, Gilam. We came for one task, not to conduct an inspection of the village.

<i>But perhaps theyd check later if something was up. </i>Litigos was definitely not going to be showing his face around here, if he was wise.

The villagers of Ranmeid were murmuring, but Delanays leaping heart sank as, after a moment, the only thing that happened was that the cold silver rod stuck to Litigos skin.

There. Happy? Nothing comes of the nobility appearing.

After some hot water unstuck the bar from his skin, Litigos retreated. Delanay hung his head as Pellmia sighed, sensing that this was not doing his reputation wonders.

Gilam, why dont you and your friends go hunting? Whatever you catch, bring it back to the village. We might have to stay overnight; another damn storm is coming. Those Winter SpritesI wonder if Ryokas presence attracts them. Or maybe they dont like us. I swear, Ive seen them dumping snow on us the entire ride here.

He groaned as he eyed the sky. Delanay raised his eyebrows, but he remembered Ryokas odd friends as well. He wished he could talk to her.

<i>Maybe after this. Ive made enough of an ass of myself, and Pellmias lost patience. After this</i>he was apologizing to Litigos, who stalked away from him and the nobles, cursing. Even Rossk looked sideways at Pellmia.

Mayhap we could do the rest of this tonight, indoors, Lord Pellmia?

Fair enough. But weve gotten nearly half the people done in forty minutes. Here, lets break out some of the giftsDelanay, give your testing-rod to one of my men. You said anyone can administrate it, didnt you? Tell everyone about the news from the south. Thats at least worth something.

Pellmia looked around, and Delanay saw the villagers who were done were helping unpack the gifts from the bag of holding or getting back to work. He looked around, then called out.

Here, you, sir.

He handed one of Pellmias men the rod and went to tell more tales about The Wandering Inn or the latest gossip. It turned out this village did have a scrying orb, so Pellmia ended up being told about the latest scene of Ilvriss being pelted with chamberpots.

A Wall LordI cant imagine hell get far. What? Someone tried to <i>knife</i> him?

Pellmia exclaimed as Delanay hurried over to the scrying orb. They were rewinding it, and he saw the Wall Lord dodging someone slashing at him with a knifethe Rubirel Guard pursuing someone as Ilvriss backed into The Wandering Inns door

<i>Now that was interesting. </i>Delanay knew that the nobility of Izril were going to resist the Wall Lord as hard as they could thanks to that quest and their own hatred of the Drakes, but they were already going after his life.

Thats not an [Assassin]. Looked like a hired thug.

Hired thug or not, that Wall Lord was lucky he had armor under his clothing. Poison gets you either way. What a mess. If he dies, its war or too close to it for my liking. Enough of the hotheads.

Pellmias glance at his son, shouting at his company to get ready to bag a boar or Corusdeer, clearly referred to more than just nobles in general. It might have also been meant for Delanay, and the young man was about to tell Pellmia he was heading south and getting out of his hair when he heard an argument from the side.

You there. You werent tested. One moment.

A tired [Warrior at Arms] was calling out to a familiar figure. Delanay turned, and the farmer whod tried to talk down Eteste was walking away.

I have, sir. I passed the truth stone.

Not the stick. Just bare your arm, sir.

I passed that, too.

The man protested. He was a blunt-nosed fellow with [Farmer]s clothes, clearly one of the working hands. Rossk called out.

Just humor him. Ill trade you my cup of wine, Albren.

The man just kept walking, shaking his head. The [Guard] trotted after him, annoyed now. Delanay half-turned, about to tell him not to make a fuss and make Delanay get in more trouble with House dArtien.

There was nothing odd about Albren as opposed to Litigos. He had a wool cap, not a hat, to keep himself warm, his clothes were dirty, and he was bare-handed from working, perhaps to shore up a barn during the winter. But when the [Guard] reached him, he refused to bare his arm.

I have to get to work.

Itll just take one moment. Here

Dont.

Then he tried to run. But his boots slipped on the ground, and the [Guard] caught him by one arm. The farmer struggled as Delanays neck began to prickle, and House Quellaes guard raised the silver rod.

The exasperated man lowered the silver rod to just pass along Albrens bare cheek. The casual farmer turned and grabbed the haft of the testing-stick. For a second, they wrestled, Albren trying to get away, and he was stronger than the [Guard] expected.

But then the silver touched his cheek, and the skin boiled and turned to ash. And the pain made Albren recoil in instinctual, blinding agony. Then he sighed.

It was a long sigh as he looked up at the sky. Then, Delanay noticed two things. He saw, for the first time, how unlike everyone else, who left trails of vapor when they spoke from the heat of their breath mixing with the cold airthis man had virtually none, even when he exhaled.

<i>As if he were cold already despite his clothes.</i>

The second was his eyes. They had been brown, plain and normal, not the variants of orange or red or even yellow that Delanay had been trained to notice. <i>Innocuous as anyones.</i> His skin was weathered, not pale, and hed even had a bit of a limp.

But now those eyes brightened, and a crimson mote of light swam into the brown. A flicker of redlike uncontrollable rage and agony rising out of the darkness. It flashed over his face, amidst fear and pain, and twisted his face into what Delanay had been looking for.

<i>Monster.</i> It was just a single momentbefore Albren pulled something from his belt.

Not a sword. Nor a dagger. It wasshears for a sheeps wool. Two long prongs of sharp iron. They were sharp enough to cut wool.

Or go straight through a metal gorget, a ring supposed to protect the neck. The gorget was iron as well, a sensible guard of metal. The hand that pushed the shears <i>through</i> the metal was stronger than belief.

going south to see how Tyrion is getting onwhat the

Lord Pellmia Quellae turned as one of his guards fell over in the snow. The bright bit of silver fell from his grip, and the blood ran out of the ruined shears embedded in his neck. The villagers of Ranmeid turned.

Albren?

Headman Rossk stared at the collapsing man. Then

At the Vampire. He stood there, shaking, his cheek still smoldering, and the uncontrolled rage left him. His hand shook, and he stared at the shears, as if only realizing what hed done for the first time. He gazed down at the dead manthen closed his eyes. When he looked up, it seemed like hope had left his eyes. And Delanay thought

<i>How dare he look so guilty.</i>

Only for a moment did the Vampire hesitate and take in what hed done. Then, without a word, Albren kicked the silver rod away, bent down, and yanked the mans sword out of his sheath. Then he turned to run.

The whirling Vampire frozeand his stolen sword rose. He was no swordsman. He might never have held one before in his life and, somehow, he had passed the truth stone test about House Byres.

<i>It was just a coincidence. </i>But he was found. And clumsy or nothe slashed with the sword and cut the burning crossbow bolt in half.

Flames coating the wooden tip, a stake in miniature. The Vampire looked up, and Delanay dArtien was reloading his crossbow, eyes fixed on him.

Albren just sighed. Like someone seeing the twilight of his life. A long, pained sigh that Delanay didnt understand. The man called out once as Gilam and his friends whirled with a long cry of surprise and alarm.

Did you have to <i>look?</i>

Then he ran. He was fast, unnaturally fast, as fast as any City Runner even in the snow, and he had desperation and surprise on his side.

They caught him two hundred paces from the village. Gilam and his friends had horses. He was on foot. He dodged an arrow, and the [Knight] of Clairei Fields, Sir Royald, ran down on him with a spear raised.

He ignored Delanays warning cries, and his spear flickered.

<i>[Homing Quick Stab]. </i>Ive got him! Ive

The spear rammed through Albrens shoulder, knocking the Vampire down. The man went downseized the spear as it pinned him to the ground and the other riders circled himand <i>heaved</i>.

Royald was a trained warrior. He had been told to never let go of his weapon. He didnt. His eyes bulged as he was lifted <i>out</i> of his saddle and hurled to the ground. He tried to get up and saw Albren was on his feet.

A charging fist struck his neck with a sound Delanay heard even two hundred paces away. The <i>crunch</i> of Royalds neck cracking back was loud. He fell down, and no healing potion could have brought him back.

<i>Royald!</i>

The other younger [Warriors] charged the Vampire before he could escape. They boxed him in, some leaping down from their saddles, and Delanay charged after them.

<i>Dont try to kill him without silver! Get back! Get</i>

Delanay had no target, just shouts of fury, idiots throwing fists or trying to swing a sword at close-range. Then screams. When the press of bodies broke back, three more young men were dead.

Albren cleaved the thirds head from his shoulders with a sweep of his sword. Now, he looked like what he was.

<i>An immortal of the night. </i>Someone had laid his back open to the bone, and it was <i>healing.</i> Not as fast as Delanay had heard, but it was like a healing potion. Albren didnt know how to parry a swordhe grabbed it, wrenched it aside, and struck one of Gilams friends through the neck so hard that the steel blade broke.

<i>You bastard!</i>

Gilam screamed as he slashed at the Vampirethen ducked back. Albren missed him as he struck out, fingers like claws, slashing twice. Gilam deflected one claw, and a <i>kick</i> nearly took his head before Gilam jerked back.

<i>He was quick!</i> The [Lord] was a better fighter than Delanay had thought. Albren nearly lungedthen <i>twisted</i> under another crossbow bolt. He turnedand one of Pellmias guards shot him through the eye.

He staggered back as an arrow shaft <i>thunked</i> into his head. Pellmia shouted.

<i>Gilam! Get back!</i>

The [Lord] was already backing up, eyes wide. Delanay reloaded as three more arrows hit the Vampire. Albren staggered backbut gravity didnt take him down. Slowlyblood running from his eye socket, he pulled at the arrow. Then let go.

Albren stopped trying to run as the panicked guards trained more arrows on him. A bowstring <i>snapped</i>and his right hand blurred.

He caught the next arrow, the impact snapping his hand back and making his body rock. Then he lifted the arrow. And he was staring at Delanay now.

Gilam. Get back.

Pellmias voice was a croak as he stared at a man who should be dead. That arrow tip was in his <i>brain.</i> But the Vampire just stared another moment, a bloody tear running down his cheeks. Then he came at them with a shrieking scream. Delanay dropped the crossbow and drew a silver blade. He shouted at them to get back.

Get back. <i>Silver! S</i>

Silver.

Lord Pellmia Quellae stared at the broken silver blade twenty minutes later. He knelt and saw how it had bent, then been sheared in half. The hilt was jutting from Albrens chest.

Silver was the only thing that left a wound on Vampires. All the other wounds closedwhile he was alive. Fire healed slowest.

He was still smoking from Etestes flame spell. The smoldering corpse lay in the center of the village, a trail of bodies behind him.

Delanay dArtien was lying a foot from the Vampires body, eyes wide, panting. He had chunks missing from his face. At the end, they had been locked together, and Albren had been biting him.

Eight of House Quellaes guards were dead. Five of Gilams friends. Pellmia had seen war. Hed seen high-level fighters die hard.

He was trying to remember if hed seen <i>this.</i> A [Berserker]? Maybe. But thatman had been so fast. Pellmias own enchanted blade had cut him, and hed seen the cut slowly healing.

What was he called again?

Vampire. If I start craving bloodif I grow fangs or cant stand daylightkill me.

Pellmia paused as he handed Delanay a precious healing potion. The City Runner was pale-faced.

That can happen?

If youre bitten. We have cures and safeguards. II have to tell my family. You have to tell them. This isnt a fluke. That was one of them. <i>No one moves like that. </i>You agree, dont you?

Amazingly, in this moment, he turned to Pellmia for reassurance. The [Lord] regarded his own trembling hand and stared at that trail of blood. People were still crying out in horror, but he felt ice-cold.

<i>Had he ever heard Yitton telling horror stories when the drink was flowing well? </i>He thought he recalled them. Now, Pellmia wished hed heard everything from Yitton Byres. He was sweating, now, in the cold.

Yes. Not even someone gone rabid does that. Howhow many of them are there? How does it spread?

It can spread like a plague. But theyre intentional. I dont know how manythe villagers. Dont let any leave.

Pellmia whirled. He began to give orders, and Delanay was trying to get up.

Ylawes thought he ran into a family. They went after his house. I have to tell him. We have to

Focus. I want this entire village questioned. Were not safe. Once word of this spreadsGilam. <i>Gilam! Send a [Message] to the keep, now! </i>I need hundreds of our guard on the road!

They had barely three dozen men. If even one more came at themPellmia was sweating, now, and Gilam jerked as he looked over.

Send a

This is the last thing we need. The last.

Pellmia muttered it quietly into the winter. But he didnt miss Delanays look of shock, having nearly died, and triumph.

We had to know. All secrets coming to light. We need as much silver as we can find. Garlic, silverlight. Stakes. Or well drown in blood and fangs.

The Lord of House Quellae stood there and wondered about what Albren had said.

<i>Did you have to look?</i>

He had a sudden fear that this was an accident. A terrible one. But one look at Delanay, at the horrified Humans whod seen one of their own people turn into an unstoppable killerand he realized no one could return the Djinni to the bottle. So Pellmia turned heavily to Delanay and spoke.

I fear youre right.

The City Runner heard him and missed what Pellmia meant completely.

[Conditions Met: Crossbow Speed Hunter

Vampire Hunter Class!]

[Vampire Hunter Level 27!]

[Skill

Natural Enemy: Vampires obtained!]

[Skill

Immunity: Vampirism obtained!]

[Skill

Weapon Art: Stake the Bloodsucker obtained!]

[Skill Change

Keen Shot

Silverstake Spreadshot!]

[Skill

Silverstake Spreadshot obtained!]

[Title

Rediscovery of the Bloody Foe obtained!]

[Title Skill

Charisma: Conviction of the Hunter granted!]

What an Ancestors-damned mess.

That was what Nerul said after they had bathed themselves and gotten clear of Invrisil. He tossed a towel down, and Ilvriss finished checking himself for nicks.

Did they catch the assailant?

The Watch made an effort, but theyre Humans. There wasnt much interest. It was definitely not an [Assassin]. Gang member. Were reassessing tactics.

The Rubirel Guard had worked well once theyd noticed the knife attacker. But with so many Humans, even the experienced Drakes would have trouble keeping Ilvriss safe.

<i>Wonderful. </i>Not even Thronebearers would want to try to keep Ilvriss safe in a hostile north. And worsehis biggest ally had caused this.

It was only going to get worse. Ilvriss had a feeling that he had just put his foot in a huge incident, and he would have dearly loved to shout at Erin like the good old days. But the problem was, she wasnt even here to shout at.

Wall Lord? Are you decent? Ive been looking around for help, and I think I can at least introduce you to a number of the norths nobles. But if Erin has a better ideaI think shes meeting with Magnolia Reinhart. I could wait for her to get back. Do you need more towels?

Lyonette du Marquin called out from outside the inns single bathing room. Not that Nerul and Ilvriss had been sharing it; theyd just been washing themselves. A visit to the bathhouses later was in order, but at least he didnt stink.

Ilvriss called out he was acceptable, and she came in with more towels and, to his gratitude, some perfume to cover any remaining scents. As to her questionhe growled.

At this moment, Erins <i>help</i> is not something I need. Did you say you had introductions to other nobles? How?

Lyonette smiled, looking slightly exasperated and worried herself.

There are several visiting the inn regularly. Theres Lady Pryde, Bethal, Lord Tyrion, Lord Xitegen you know

Dead gods, Id love to talk to them, but not <i>now!</i> This requires a delicate touch, not an immediate meeting, Miss Lyonette!

Nerul remembered her from Oteslia, but he seemed worried at the notion of, after recently being showered in piss, having to shake hands and talk the nobles out of their position.

Lyonette looked equally as appalled by the suggestion. She raised her hands as Ilvriss turned to her.

Pawns heaven, no! I wouldnt do anything as crass as that! I just inquired if they were staying in the area, and I suggested maybe you could appear at a luau. Thats an evening get together on the beach. I dont actually think Erin knows what it means, exactly, but I could pull one together. Lots of people, and if you were in attendance

<i>Perfect.</i>

Nerul brightened at once, and Lyonette nodded.

In fact, theres a Lord Alman Sanito and his family and plenty of the lesser nobility one could ask. Not all have passes to Erins beach. I was thinking of inviting them

And make introductions?

Ilvriss brightened at this at once. Nerul and Lyonette both shouted at him.

<i>No!</i>

The [Diplomat] shook his head rapidly.

The last thing you need to do is walk around shaking hands, Nephew. Far from it. You keep well away from them but be an engaging, non-objectionable presence. Play some of that volleyball. Speak on anything <i>but</i> politics. In fact, Ill write up a notecard for you. If <i>I</i>, as your representative, so much as breathe a word about Salazsar, it will be after we have a damn good time drinking and talking with the people I meet! With that said, would you let <i>Ilvriss</i> invite them into the beach?

I could doformal letters. Erin has some cards, but theyre not that fancy. If you give me a seal of Salazsar, I could stamp it on the corner. Thats so straightforward, but not all the nobles, like Lord Ranga, will even notice it. You have to get them together so the smart ones explain it to the less perspicacious ones.

Subtler, then, but so they know its from us. Thats a genuinely subtle move, Miss Marquin. <i>Thank you</i>, and can we do this?

Lyonette smiled, but carefully as a Thronebearer bowed to Ilvriss. She had clearly been waiting to suggest this very thing, but now she grew hesitant and cast her eyes backwards.

Ill have to ask Erin

<i>With respect</i>hang Miss Solstices opinions. Not the woman herself. Shed probably put us all on the gallows. I am asking you! I could use a [Princess] as backup, frankly.

Oh, as <i>backup?</i>

Lyonette looked a bit indignant at the phrasing, and Nerul instantly bowed to her.

If you lead, I will gladly follow, Your Highness. Ive seen you dance with Ilvriss, and come to think of it, it would be gormless of me to presume to do better than you. Especially with the north.

She blushed and waved this off. Ilvriss paused as he recalled the dance in Oteslias courts. What desperate times, yet that had seemed like a higher moment than this. <i>War with the Gnolls</i>

Dead gods, it didnt get easier. Lyonette chewed her lip, then came to a decision.

Miss Lyonette will do if were working together, or just my name, Diplomat Nerul. Are there any Salazsarian tricks you can employ, besides a name for everything?

Neruls eyes twinkled.

My dear, we invented the Winebreath Blaster. But since thats crass, maybe the old Fissivilian Racer will do. Do you have anything to <i>bet</i> on? Drakes love their damn bets, and if the nobles dont want to put money down on something, Ill eat my dinner out of one of those chamberpots. Ahbut since there are lesser nobles, not with real coins. Can you manufacture some faux currency and a game or something to bet on?

Now, this was the part where if he were speaking to Erin, the [Innkeeper] would throw up her hands and say, faux currency? What am I, a casino? This is too much work! Lets just go over there and shake hands and tell them not to be jerks!

And that was because she didnt always like putting in the work. Erin was a direct person at times, and while she could be subtle, she didnt tend to be unless she had the inclination.

Lyonette? Lyonette was a [Princess]. She snapped her fingers.

Seashells. We dont have real ones, but you can make them out of wood and cover them with glitter. Visma made them, but they were getting the water dirty. You can pay for free entres or drinks with them. Everyone getsthree. Most dishes cost at least four, so no one will be able to afford anything. Right away. Then we have games of volleyball with bets. Or something similar. Ser Sest? Go get Visma and make a team. I need four hundred seashells.

Wwhere am I getting all that carved wood, glitter, and paint, Your Highness?

She tapped her lips.

Tell Yelroan to find a [Carver] and get the job on rush. No, wait. Yelroan only needs to budget all this. Laken has a [Carver]. Find Xif and tell him we need whatever supplies can make them shine. Pay him in gold if you have to, or free drinks or access. Numbtongue also has gemstones.

High denomination currency?

Nerul suggested slyly. Lyonette nodded.

And things you can <i>only</i> buy with the seashells. Certain treats.

They were going so fast that Ilvriss just stood there. He got what they were doing, but this was a level of scheming below even what a Wall Lord was used to.

Can I, ah, help, Miss Lyonette?

She turned and gave him a triumphant smile.

Yes, you can!

Wonderful! What am I

Go practice playing volleyball. Ser Dalimont can show you how. Oh, and if you have any Salazsarian books that are only accessible in the south, get them as long as theyre interesting. And brush up on the kingdoms that are coming from Terandria. The flowers of Izril have <i>opinions</i> on them. Everyones against Ailendamus, but be careful how you speak of the Sleeping Three.

Ilvriss opened his mouth.

Which one do I do first?

And what do I, uh, do?

Osthia waved a claw. Lyonette sighed in delight as Nerul looked around with a huge frown.

And wait a second. Has anyone seen Xesci?

Someone else who could dodge like a maniac was Erin Solstice. She dodged the first cube of sugar Magnolia lobbed at her, then the couch pillow. Ressa grabbed the tea saucer before Magnolia could hurl that.

Hey. I came to <i>you.</i>

Ressa, go slap her.

It was just a jest, a half-suggestion, but even so, it provoked a response. A figure shifted behind Erin, standing with hands folded behind her back at the door. In response, Ressa raised her brows.

Dame Jewel, or perhaps, Adventurer Jewel depending on who she was, now, eyed the [Head Maid] and knew she was outclassed. But the Knight of Solstice stood here, and the suggestion made her twitch.

She met the eyes of a Face, an older legend of assassins and blades, servant of Magnolia Reinhart, and this time she knew she was in over her head.

But she just tensedand the [Innkeeper] looked over her shoulder and smiled. Then she turned to Magnolia and glared.

Dont bully me, Magnolia. Jewels trying to do her job. They said one of the Order of Solstice had to come with me. She doesnt fight alone. If you play your Ressa, Ill send all my [Knights].

Erin smiled teasingly, and seriously, and Magnolia smiled back, but the difference between the two was that only one meant it. But Magnolia did acknowledge Jewels presence after a moment with a nod.

How things change. Do you hear that, Ressa? I can no longer bully Erin because the Order of Solstice will check you in place. Oh my.

Ressa folded her hands behind her back and bowed, then smiled politely at Erin. Her eyes flicked to Jewel.

Hah. That <i>might</i> work.

The [Innkeeper] frowned at the [Head Maid] as Jewel shifted again, and Magnolia Reinhart relaxed. She lifted a hand with a sigh, easing the tensions.

If only life were a game of chess, Miss Solstice. Then, I think you would always be without fault. For such a perspicacious young woman who understands there are feelings behind the board and in each piece, you sometimes play like theres no nuance in the world, just squares and lines. Do you <i>know</i> what youve done?

Ive caused a fuss. Like always.

Magnolia raised her brows.

Like always. Erin, you have roused the north to action. This is not your small inn. You posted a <Quest>. You have engaged my peers, and I dont think you understand how poorly it was done.

They were in her sitting room, and the too-pink room in Magnolias mansion in Invrisil was familiar to Erin, but she was different. She sat down and sipped from the tea and gagged.

Its <i>sweet.</i> Anyways, I know what I did. Someone needed to push Ilvriss forwards. The quest matters.

Magnolia slapped the table in front of her. She was more upset than Erin could remember. Not in voice, but in the rest.

By pushing something in their faces? Erin, when has that <i>ever </i>worked in your world and mine? And yes, I have studied your world! You did the worst thing possiblenobles <i>hate</i> being told what to do.

I offered them

You offered them something in half a years time. You cannot bribe them like that, Erin! Theyll convince themselves they dont want your Skill even if it came from Zeladona herself, that they dont need it, and that the most honorable, nay, <i>only</i> thing to do is murder Ilvriss! You were not clever.

She was lecturing Erin, and it put the [Innkeeper]s back up.

Well, we dont have time to slowly build bridges. Especially since they love to keep breaking them. What was Ilvriss supposed to do? Theyd do this eventually.

Ressa. Please slap her.

Magnolia massaged the bridge of her nose as Ressa gave her a sympathetic look. She leaned over the table and spoke slowly, enunciating each word.

There <i>was</i> a better way. Wall Lord Ilvriss should have come to the north like a <i>Drake.</i> He should have come openly, greedily, bargaining, betraying his city and squeezing the north for every gold coin. That would have made my peers argue and bicker and fall over themselves to use him in their games. It would have been familiar to them. Instead of an argument of politics, it would have been one of greed and self-interest. <i>You</i> have turned it into north versus south.

Erin paused as Magnolia laid out her vision for the scenario.

Oh. That doesnt sound as bad. But they still would have come <i>after</i> Ilvriss. And if you were so certain this was the best move, why didnt you tell<i>whoa!</i>

She ducked the entire teacup and the contents. Magnolia snapped back.

<i>I was waiting for Diplomat Nerul to meet with me! </i>I thought I had a day, not an hour before you hammered a <Quest> straight through Izrils heart!

Erin opened her mouth. She saw Ressa reloading Magnolias hand with another cup and drink and hesitated.

Okay, maybe I could have waited, but we have no time. We cant

She hesitated, and Magnolia calmed a bit. She studied Erin and spoke.

I see. <i>You</i> think we dont have any time. Whether you are correct or not, Erin, I suggest that you could have waited before moving like that. And now, you are in a position I do not envy. I wont keep you long since I know you have little respect for my position and that you are a busier woman with more to do than I.

She stood up and walked to the window to stare at her snowy mansion. Erin spluttered.

I never said

Lets not be crass and pretend that isnt what you thought, Erin. You need two things to allow Ilvriss to get across the north unmolestedwell, it will be troublesome, but I am telling you what you <i>need.</i> Communicate it to him.

Magnolia was brisk as she nibbled on some frosted cookies. The Earth-foods had not improved her diet. Erin hesitated as she walked over to stare out the windows.

Whatre my things? And is that<i>Teriarch</i> doing pushups in your lawn?

I have no idea why, but he has some [Boxer] friend, and its apparently too cold for the two to do whatever they do. They still insist the cold builds character. Pay attention. Hes not important to you. This is your waryou need two things. A <i>noble</i> to back Ilvriss. A powerful or savvy one. I suggest Emperor Laken, but I dont know if he has the reach or likes Drakes that much. The second thing you need isa gang.

Huh? Whwhy those two?

Erin was confused and suspicious. Magnolia turned, raising her brows at Erin.

I know you know the answer. Two shields, Erin. Two groups who can also get everything he needs. High and low. Both <i>must</i> protect him from their counterparts, rival gangs and hostile nobles. They can also get what he <i>needs, </i>because both are placed with the authority Ilvriss requires. You may have both already, but I would double-check and get confirmation from both.

She eyed Erin, and the [Innkeeper] frowned. This did seem like a good tip. But

Why dont you help? Isnt having Ilvriss in the north perfect for your plans?

Magnolias slapping hand twitched.

Erin, all my focus is in Oteslia and my wall project. Even if I had <i>warning from a discerning [Innkeeper] who took me into account for her plans</i>

She paused as Erin squirmed.

I would not want to back Ilvriss for <i>peace.</i> He may help, or he may be a hindrance, but I am not a woman who enjoys betting on someone elses game. This is <i>your</i> struggle as you have demonstrated. Plus

Magnolia paused and took another bite from a cookie.

I would hate to see what kind of trouble he can dig up.

<i>Dig up.</i> It sounded innocuous, unless you knew Ilvriss plans. Erin gave Magnolia a deeply suspicious glance. There was no way she had spies in the inn! Ilvriss had only told her and a few others

Erin. Stop glaring a hole in my face. I can logic out why hes sending [Miners] north and asking about them here. <i>You</i> are the one who just confirmed it.

Erin turned red as Magnolia nodded at Ressa. The [Maid], glaring, dug something out of her pocket. She slapped a gold coin into Magnolias gloved hand, and the [Lady] pocketed it.

If thats all, Erin?

Magnolia prompted the angry [Innkeeper]. Erin stared at her and Ressa.

Well, I guess you have it all sorted. Ill see myself out, then. Sorry that Im such a mess.

Apologize to Ilvriss. I imagine he deserves it. Oh, and Erin?

Magnolia halted Erin at the door. The [Innkeeper] turned, angry and upset because Magnolia was calling her out for the things she saw Erin doingsomewhat fairly. She saw the [Lady] watching her with glittering eyes, pink dress against the winter backdrop. Magnolia turned her head.

There are <i>armies</i> descending on Liscor. I was never good at them, and I doubt more soldiers matters at this point. I trust the boys have the spear-rattling well in hand. I will be there with Teriarch and Taletevirion. Is there anything else we need?

Erin Solstice stared at her, and her annoyed demeanor changed to a serious, somber one.

Do you have anything better?

At this, Knight Jewel, who was holding the door open, froze for Erin. She looked back, and it was still in her eyes.

<i>Were not ready. </i>Neither she, nor Erinnor the Order of Solstice. But they wanted to be called. Jewel looked at Erin longingly, but this battle?

Magnolia Reinhart pursed her lips.

Ill check. Well now, I can see why youre rushing. Ressa, if I have nightmares, I want sleeping drops. Erin, look behind you.

The [Innkeeper] did, obligingly, and met Jewels eyes. Magnolia Reinhart was still angry, upset, but she lifted her cup of tea as she went to sit back down.

I thought to give you more of my staff. Whether or not you end up finding moreand you need morethat woman was not there before. When I suggested sending Ressa to slap you, I, a Reinhart of the Five Families, and Ressa, who was once known as Dagger of House Reinhart of the Assassins Guild

Erin swung back around as Jewel paled slightly. Ressa kicked her mistress, but Magnolia just laughed and raised her voice.

Oh, yes. The Flowered Blade of the North. Werent they trying a bunch of names out at one point? The Bloom of Drath, the Maid-Assassin, Deadly Elegance herself. Reynold? <i>Reynold,</i> do you remember what they called Ressa? None of them ever stuck perfectly, but I recall a number. What about you?

Dont you <i>dare</i>

But as if this were a point of pride for everyone but Ressa, a [Butler] poked his head in the room. He feared no death, because he bowed smoothly.

I believe, The Invisible Edge? The Ninja of Izril?

Ressa turned crimson, and suddenly a bunch of [Maids] were flooding into the hallway behind Magnolia, calling out names in delight.

The Lioness of the Five Families!

The Edged Creler!

The Unstoppable Woman, after the time she was tossed off that mountain and climbed back up in the middle of a storm with a dagger in her teeth, and attacked the entire camp head on

<i>Back to work!</i>

Magnolia was laughing as Ressa thundered, and the servants fled. Erin gave Ressa a wide-eyed look.

Those names are so <i>cool.</i>

The [Head Maid] refused to even look at Magnolia or anyone else. After the [Lady] had finally caught her breath, she pointed at Jewel and, laughing, shook her head.

Despite facing Ressa<i>your [Knight] didnt run. </i>Even if it was foolish. Find yourself more good people like that. But keep them alive. Thats the hard part.

I know. And theyre notmy people.

Erin bowed her head. Magnolia just snorted at her lightly, but she measured Erin up and down. And at last, she ducked her head slightly.

You are, in the end, doing it your way. I get so very angry at you for being a thoughtless, feckless brat who throws magicore into a fire. But that is Maviola El. And myself, one supposes.

You never did anything dramatic or stupid, milady.

Ressa delivered that defense of her mistress straight-faced as she idly studied two crossed fingers she was holding up. Magnolia paused a longer moment as Jewel and Erin observed how the two worked. And perhapslearned. The [Lady] of House Reinhart nodded.

Absolutely, Ressa. Thank you for that. Erin, you never take my advice. But you do end up, after many twists and turns in your own style, right where I would tell you to go. You have your Order. You are taking sides. Whether they are the right onesI can only offer you advice, and no longer unsolicited.

She nodded again to Erin, and this time, the [Innkeeper] hesitated by the door. She jerked her head backwards a second, as if frowning at something over her shoulder.

Whoa. Was something at thew-well, if you had any advice, Magnolia, what would it be? I mean, I always <i>listen.</i> I dont always do what you say, because Im me, but if you had any good advice. What would it be?

Magnolia Reinhart chuckled, and she put the teacup down. <i>She was learning how to do this a bit better, with Erin. </i>She didnt bother pretending to think.

Start stealing. You can train a legion, and you have and shall. But you should learn to steal. You have stolen two. At this point, take the bakers dozen.

Who did I steal?

Yelroan. And Miss Tessa. But treat them kindly. Dont be shy, either. Dont think I dont need to rock the boat. You are currently flipping the boat, and everyone <i>grabs, </i>oh my, but we do. Its just that we dont get much loyalty. You do. That is your power. Treasure it.

Magnolia looked wistful as Ressa patted her on the shoulder. Then she smiled at Erin.

My rsum will be at your inn shortly. My prices may be high, but

Magnolia began swatting at her [Maid]. And Erin wavered, because she suddenly was more willing to listen. Thenher eyes turned round with alarm.

Wait. I have to go. <i>Jewel, run to the inn. Somethings wrong with the door. </i>Someone

She turned, and Jewel stopped smiling and whirled in alarm.

I have to protect

<i>Go! No one notices but Liska! Run!</i>

The two bolted for it, and Magnolia and Ressa stopped play-fighting.

Do I go after her, Magnolia?

Yes. But be careful. Oh my, this never changes.

Magnolia rubbed at her brows as Erin ran, shouting an alarm. She sat there a second, then shouted after Ressa.

If its another horrible monster, mythical quest, earth-shaking calamity, revelation, or incident, <i>please</i> try to involve Xitegen or Tyrion and make it their responsibility! Im busy!

She shook her head. Erin Solstice also took on too much trouble. You <i>could</i> refuse to put more on your plate.

Shed tell Erin next time.

<i>Why was Pallass fortifying the area around Liscor? Why were forces from both north and south moving towards the city? </i>

Only a few people knew the answer, and to everyone else, they could see the pattern, but not the reason.

And it gave them stomach problemsor would if they were still alive.

When Regis Reinhart started this day, it was already bad. When he heard about Lord Pellmias encounter with a Vampire, he cursed House dArtien for nearly ten minutes straight. He didnt need to breathe, but this gave him pause.

<i>Investigations always dug up more than you wanted. </i>It was risky, dangerous, and doubly so because the Circle of Thorns was supposed to be invisible. It was Vampires who had burned House Byres, and it was Vampires being revealed that were putting a spotlight on <i>his </i>work.

Then his niece sent him a [Message], and he nearly had a ghostly heart-attack.

<i>She wants to take the Crown of Flowers out? </i>Shes messing with me. That isa joke, isnt it? And the Banner of House Reinhart?

Its not a joke this time. She says shes being very serious.

As proof, one of the [Maids] assigned to wait on him for eternity in the Vault of the Reinharts held up the scroll. Regis stared at the note, and it had none of Magnolias regular humor. He licked his lips.

Regis, the ghost of House Reinhart, one of the first generations of Reinharts on Izril. He had been sealed away to guard their treasury forever, had been preserved in the moment of his death by powerful magic. He could leave the treasury if need be, though no one knew it, and he was the architect behind many projects, including the Circle of Thorns.

He regarded himself as the true protector of the north and the only winner of the longest war between the Five Families and Walled Cities and Gnolls. He was playing a game across millenia, and it didnt matter if you lost pieces so long as you took the board in the end.

<i>Recent events were making him sweat, though.</i>

W-whats coming at the Winter Solstice? Tell her no. Ask her for clarification andargh.

She was getting insistent, reminding him shed put treasures into the Vault of Reinharts. That didnt mean she got to access one of the three most powerful Relics in there, but he caved a bit.

How about battle Golems? She can have four. Four, if it gets her off my back! Thats more than she got with Zel Shivertail! We cant have her dying right now. Not with those damn New Lands the Gnolls raised.

Gnolls making new lands. Vampires and their grudges. No one could just <i>sit down and not stir his plans up. </i>It was true that blood empowered the Circle of Thorns. Each noble of Izril who died empowered the ritualbut some had to be alive, or the north collapsed.

<i>This hunt is going to turn into a bad one, quick. </i>Regis mused to himself as he gave swift orders.

Communicate this across all members of the Circle. <i>Go to ground. </i>Dont gather, dont stir. Well halt operations in the headquarters for a month.

Theyll still find the Circle if you do, Lord Reinhart.

One of his maids pointed out the obvious as he licked his lips again. They werent on his side, the four maids of House Reinhart. They had to follow his orders, but they did so maliciously, like Djinni. His permanent life in death wasnt perfect. The [Necromancer] had preserved his intelligence, a lot of his powers, and more as a ghostbut she had neglected to mention something really important.

Which was that Regis was preserved as hed died. Which was to say that his lips werent chapped, but they were a bit dry.

So for millenia, he had been licking at his lips, and there was one quasi-crack and dry flap of skin that had annoyed him for an eternity. He gave up on licking his lips. <i>Someday, he would resolve everything. </i>He had failsafes, and plans could change.

No one was as cunning as him. Even Magnolia, that dear prodigy of her time, was getting old. If he needed to, he could replace her. Maybe it was time to unleash House Reinhart again, get them levelling. Even if you had a lot of bastard children running around, that just meant a crop he could prune and raise up rather than a spirited few.

For nowhe bit his lips skin-flap and chewed. Then he had an idea.

I know. Thisthis can work out. The Circles disappearance has some of those damn nosy ones still poking around. Tyrion, Etril, Magnoliabut how better to hide a conspiracy than in one? We go to ground. Butyou, get me a map.

He pointed, and a [Maid] handed him a map. Regis hurled it away.

<i>Not a map of Chandrar!</i> Get me a map of the known Vampire covens in Izril! A <i>modern </i>one!

With a sigh, she found the one he wanted. Regis held it up. He had information from everywhere, and even if it wasnt perfect

He wondered what all the fuss was about the things Magnolia was hoarding. She had moves on stockpiled sulfur, and he assumed it was related to the King of Destruction who wanted the stuff, but now the Sleeping Three and other nations wanted things Magnolia had bought up last year.

<i>Something was up.</i> Regis main issue was that he seldom had face-to-face informants, and without Magnolias help, he ran blind. And his attempts to <i>get</i> the otherworlders had been miserably foiled until now. There were so few of them, and the other factions had been fighting over them like starving Crelers. It was hard for Regis to move openly; Magnolia was <i>supposed</i> to support him, but she had never given him one of thesewhat did you even call them?

Endlessly frustrating for Regis. The ghost had no hands in the world, whereas his knowledge of underworlds was unmatched. He studied the map, crossed out about half the villages, and circled a bunch of areas at random.

There. Give this to the hunters when they emerge. Let them hunt those dying bloodsuckers. It just means less competition for us. No, the <i>Circle</i> will unite around it. <i>Purge Izril of the blood.</i>

He warmed to the idea instantly. Yes, that was it! And that was how the order went out.

<i>Join the hunt with House dArtien. Kill the Vampires.</i>

The Circle had always risen against issues that plagued them. First, Magnolias stranglehold on the north. Now this. Nothing united the nobles of Izril like a common enemy.

Regis Reinhart sent a scourging fire at the Vampires. But they already knew it was coming. They had known for ages. At least, the older ones had. For the younger generation? They hadnt seen it coming at all.

Fierre val Lischelle-Drakle was a happy Vampire. Or at least, she had been.

Every day, she had gone to work and put on the handsome, lilac uniform of House Imarris. She had admired the new rings, bag of holding, and other equipment her employer had paid for.

Her employer, in turn, had admired her from multiple angles. Which definitely violated some labor laws. It was a good thing they didnt exist where Ieka Imarris was concerned.

The Lady of House Imarris had needed a competent helper.

Fierre was competent. She was, in fact, <i>very good </i>at her job, and she had, over the last month, gotten to grips with Iekas situation. Her position as an underworld informant had actually made her an ideal candidate for the job.

House Imarris didnt have its hands clean. Few nobles with a lot of business dealings did, but Ieka hadnt even pretended she was above it all.

She was entrenched in dealings below and aboveboard, and Fierre had encountered her first conflict of interest: balancing the information that came to her as a broker and as Iekas help.

She had persisted with her broker job, literally moonlighting as an Information Broker because Ieka encouraged and even endorsed Fierres position.

Any information that helps House Imarris is welcome. So long as you dont interfere with our interests or that of my aunt, go ahead and sell the information you receive. For a good price.

Lady Ieka liked her image as the trendsetting enchantress-lady of Izril. The rogue visionary, the unappreciated mind pushing the cutting edge.

Whether or not this was true was harder for Fierre to tell. She was certainly intelligent, but the [Lady] sort of reminded Fierre ofFierre. A lot of promise, but not always the convincing delivery, like Fierres fighting abilities.

For instance, she had tried to deliver that smooth remark about Fierres double-life to indicate that she was confident Fierre would be loyal. Also, that she didnt need to take a cut of Fierres business and that she was keen on having someone who was connected and in-the-know.

And she had delivered it with a good smile, half splayed out on a recliner in her rooms in one of those low-cut bodice dresses with a webbing of fishnet that Fierre had a hard time not focusing on.

Ieka seemed to have realized that, for the first time, her secretary was staring back at her, and she and Fierre were having a virgin-off.

In that both were doing their best to impress the other without having any idea how it was done. They would look at the other fanning themselves or dressing up and go, wow, what style.

It didnt <i>always</i> work. For instance, Lady Iekas low-cut bodice dress with its revealing style? Lovely. Provocative. Look at that skin.

Ieka spoiled it <i>slightly</i> by shivering nonstop because it was winter and she was cold. Even with a cold resistance spell, she was <i>freezing,</i> and she had no idea why Fierre was a lot tougher about the cold than she was.

Today, though, Fierre wasnt in such a good mood. Shed been enjoying her work, she really had been, but she stomped past the guards in Iekas estates in Invrisil without a word.

<i>Damn Rivel. Damn the idiots and damn</i>

She was mad. Furious, really, and shed been in a fight. One of those verbal ones that had you flushed and hot and pacing around for hours afterwards.

Not in a sexy way, either, just in an upset way. Fierre had been shouting at her brother over the issue that had divided the family.

Namely, Vampires and secrecy. He wasnt happy theyd moved to Liscor. He wasnt happy they werent going after Ylawes. He wasnt happy about the fact that Fierre was cured and he wasnt. And he wasnt happy that Colfa and Himilt were hanging out with the nobles of the north.

Now, some of these things Fierre agreed with. She would never forgive Ylawes Byres for what he and his family had done. Moving to Liscor was a huge burden on the family; theyd given up their <i>home,</i> and it hurt. She felt guilty about being the only one whod been cured, even if Ryoka had only had one potion.

And even the association with Bethal and Pryde that one time was dangerous. Although Colfa and Himilt were very careful, and theyd found the nobles entirely by chance boxing fish and freezing in tents in the snow.

But her brother, Rivel, was mad about it all. So mad that hed flown into a temper multiple times, and only old Bamer, the only Vampire not directly blood-related to the family, could talk him down and get him to apologize after he exploded.

That was understandable.

The part where Rivel went out with a bunch of other Vampires, burned House Byres keep <i>to the ground</i>, destroyed their silver mines, and put a huge target on all Vampires?

That was when you maybe thought Rivel had gone too far. Maybe Rivel wasnt just mad about justifiable things as he had every right to be.

Maybe Rivel was justmad at everything. And he wasnt thinking.

Well, if Fierre had been furious at Rivel, it was nothing to Himilts fury at finding out what had gone down at House Byres. Fierre, Colfa, and Bamer had had to keep him from strangling Rivel in his first real show of fury in ages.

The problem was that even if Rivel had not been <i>there</i>, hed definitely participated in the attack. Hed helped fund and arm the other Vampires. Apparently, some of Octavias creations had blown up the silver mines.

Now, Rivel refused to apologize, and he had snapped at Fierre this very morning that she didnt get his fury because shed gotten her free pass. Which was just

Fierre? Is everything alright?

Lady Ieka had been in her rooms, but the sound of Fierre slapping papers on her desk so hard she nearly cracked the varnished wood had alerted her. Fierre flushed.

Im sorry, Lady Imarris. I just had adifficult morning. With family.

Their relationship was a bit stilted, still, as it would be between two people who didnt know each other well. They thought they <i>knew</i> something about the otherbut were terrified to confirm it. Ieka tried to chuckle knowingly.

Oh, family, is it? Mine isdifficult. Honestly, my aunt is the only one of them I respect, and weve had issues before. Mostly in that she doesnt talk to me and forgets everything.

She sighed, then shook her head.

What is your issue? If you dont mind sharing.

Fierre hesitated and twiddled her gloved fingers. She had grown nearly a head from when she had first met Ryoka, and she felt powerful, dextrous

<i>She had levels in [Assassin]. She was quicker and could conjure blades made of blood, or do backflips and twists like Ryoka. </i>But somehow, she wasnt like Ryoka, friend to Tyrion Veltras, the Wind Runner and Courier of Izril.

She was humbler despite it all, and Fierre partly resented that while at the same time being afraid of the spotlight. The spotlight so often was dangerous and burned her skinbut she couldnt hide like her father and mother. She was between Rivels position and her parents.

I, ahmy brother made a big mistake. He refuses to admit hes done anything wrong, and frankly, my father might disown him or kick him out of our farm.

Thats serious.

Ieka stopped sitting on the edge of Fierres desk and took an actual seat. She was bundled up today, for the winter, but Fierre just had a light uniform on, as always. She knew Iekas staff, and they thought she was a tough girl from Reizmelt and appreciated that she was actually doing her job. Well, Fierre had discovered theyd all missed some bonus pay that Ieka had promised last year, and there was nothing like delivering coins to the staff to win them over.

Its a huge issue. My fathers not kidding, either. He hasnt spoken to Rivelmy brotherfor three weeks. And Rivel doesnt do much. He just goes out to think, which is mostly him hanging around Liscor and complaining while getting drunk.

Is he a farm worker?

Fierre found it was a relief to confide in Ieka, even if she omitted the dangerous details. The [Lady] was always genuinely curious about Fierre. True, that wasnt entirely based on her fascination with Fierres life

Yeah, hes not bad. But hes no [Farmer]. Hestalented. Sort of. He could probably become a Silver-rank adventurer if my family let him. But they dont want him to standto take risks.

Ah, so hes repressed?

Fierre shrugged.

We all are. Hes just not good at finding a balance. And he did something so <i>incredibly stupid that</i>I just dont know how I can forgive him. I want to, but he doesnt make it easy.

To her huge embarrassment, she sniffed. She was a proper Vampire, and she was <i>not </i>going to get misty-eyed in front of Ieka. The [Lady] averted her gaze, murmuring.

I know what its like to make a terrible mistake I feel will haunt me. Then again, I felt the guilt. If I can offer some unsolicited advicefamily never vanishes. Even if they exasperate you, its better not to burn a bridge. Walk away from it, but dont burn.

She gave Fierre