Day 98
Trebuchet is ready!
All clear?
All clear!
Right! Three, two, one
Rael saw the wooden beam rise into the air and stop. Behind it, a long sling of rope curved up behind it, and the young man saw a large stone fly out of the sling. It was such a smooth, casual motion that it took him a second to rember that the stone now flying high into the air weighed over a hundred pounds.
The massive stone defied gravity for a few seconds, and Rael had to turn his neck and stare with the other Human nobles as it flew across the open ground. Four hundred feet, five hundred feetwhen it landed it was a speck in the distance. The plu of dirt fountaining up into the air signaling the impact wasnt audiblethe trebuchet had sent the stone at least seven hundred feet away!
Raels jaw dropped. Imdiately he heard a whoop and then cheering. Peasants stread past him, shouting with glee as a rider on horseback rode towards the place where the stone had landed, asuring out the distance. When the distance was shouted back, the nobles around Rael murmured. Gasping would have been too uncouth.
It went that far? How?
One of the younger nobles standing next to Rael couldnt contain her disbelief. Lady Haviet fanned herself lightly while craning on the tips of her toes to see the trebuchet surrounded by the excited people.
Magic, of course. It has to be. Theres no way they could throw sothing that heavy without a spell!
Lord Andres looked excited as he pointed at the stone in the distance. His words made the other nobles murmur, but it was Lord Pattin who shook his head.
Its not magic, Andres. I didnt detect anything from it when we inspected it a minute ago. Did you, Lady Cica?
The young [Lady] shook her head, not taking her eyes off the trebuchet. Pattin nodded as he regarded the war machine speculatively. It was being loaded with another stone, a huge chunk of granite that looked recently cut.
Ive heard of these things. Siege weapons. War machines. But theyre supposed to be incredibly rare and difficult to manufacture! Pallass makes siege weapons, but the Drakes dont sell to Humans. Theres a group in Chandrar thats known for their weapons and Baleros uses so, but
Pattin broke off and bowed politely as an older [Lord] approached. Rael bowed as well, tilting his head towards Lord Tourant. The older man looked interested.
What was that I heard you saying, Lord Pattin? This is like the weapons the Drake cities make? Truly?
He looked at the trebuchet and Rael saw the half-Troll girl helping to lift another massive stone into the sling. He eyed her, noticing how her slightly cracked grey skin was covered with sweat. Part of Rael wanted to look away. She was monstrous, and yet she was Emperor Lakens consort. And there was sothingimpressiveabout the way she held her end of the stone while three n had to lift their side.
Ive never laid eyes on one myself and Ive only seen a few sketches, but the similarities are remarkable, Lord Tourant. This is like a catapult, clearly, but the range and power are completely different.
Fascinating. And youre sure of this?
Fairly sure, Lord Tourant.
Pattin answered politely. Lord Tourant glanced around.
Good, good. Thank you, young man. Excuse .
He walked backwards out of the small gathering of the younger nobles. Rael eyed him cautiously. Tourant was a fiery man and as Oswalts father, he had taken it upon himself to punish Rael, Oswalt, and the others when they caused trouble on his lands. But today Tourant was too busy to recall past misadventures. He strode over to the crowd of nobles and Rael heard him speaking loudly.
Your Majesty, this is an accomplishnt! Am I to understand that this design is similar to the devices manufactured by the Walled Cities? A truly wonderful feat!
Raels jaw dropped again. Not a second after hed gotten the information from Pattin and he was using it to look like he knew everything! Andres laughed and gave Pattin a gentle cuff on the shoulder.
Not bad, eh, Pattin? Maybe Tourant will co running back to you for more advice! Assuming youre right!
The young [Lord] smiled politely, not looking at all offended. He nodded to Oswalt.
Your father seems quite interested in these devices, Oswalt.
The young man he was addressing jumped and looked around. The glassy look on Oswalts face turned to confusion, and then he realized Pattin was talking to him. Oswalt shrugged self-consciously.
My father? Hes just trying to get ahead of the others. You dont need to answer him, Pattin. Just because he knew your father doesnt an he should take credit for
He trailed off. One of his hands reached up reflexively towards his ear and then Oswalt lowered it. Rael tried not to look at his friends ear; a chunk was missing and though the rest had been healed, the missing flesh would never be restored.
Last night. Rael shuddered as mory swam at the back of his mind. He pushed it back and saw the nobles around him doing the sa. Cica, Andres, Ellia, Havietthey all shared that mont of recollection, except for Pattin. Hed stayed out of sight during thethe festivities, Rael recalled.
Cica broke the uncomfortable silence.
Pattin, you should talk with Emperor Laken. Im sure your knowledge would impress his Majesty, and the others.
I hardly know much
Pattin demurred, but Cica gently pushed him towards the group of talking adults. They were surrounding a young man who stood at the center of attention. His eyes were closed and he was smiling, turning his head from speaker to speaker and nodding occasionally. He began talking as the young nobles approached and everyone fell silent to hear him speak.
Laken Godart did not shout, but his words carried and he made people fall silent to hear him, rather than raise his voice. He pointed unerringly to the loaded trebuchet, though it was behind him and his eyes remained closed.
Yes indeed, Lord Tourant. That does seem similar to a siege weapon from a Walled City. I have never visited Pallass of course, but the design of a trebuchet is universalassuming you know how to make one.
The [Lords] and [Ladies] surrounding him exchanged quick glances and Rael could see his aunt, Lady Bevia Veniford, narrowing her eyes. Even a small sentence like this was important. He could practically see her thinking and Rael had learned enough from his aunt to understand what she was thinking.
So, this [Emperor] Laken had never been to Pallass? How did he know how to make a trebuchet? No, wait, hed said hed never visited Pallass, which implied he might have visited another Walled City. When every word could be checked with truth spells, subtleties like this were essential.
Oblivious to the racing minds around him, Emperor Laken smiled.
Im impressed you know of trebuchets, Lord Tourant. Only a handful of people were familiar with the concept, and that included seasoned adventurers in my Empire. Are they truly so rare in this region?
Well, II suppose Ive heard of them in passing.
Lord Tourant spluttered and turned evasive as Rael smirked. The older man tugged at his mustache and pointed at Pattin.
Lord Pattins heard of them. The sa as a Walled City, didnt you say, Pattin?
Every head turned towards Pattin. Not at all worried about being put on the spot, he nodded.
They appear to be very similar to the ones described defending the Walled Cities. But from what I understand, the design is easy to replicate. Is that the case, your Majesty?
If you understand the basics, yes.
Emperor Laken turned his head to smile at Pattin. He had no gaze to tell what he was thinking, but he seed to smile deeper at Pattin. After a mont he went on.
These are only a few rough prototypes. I hope to create a market for engineering devices of all kinds. Naturally aWalled City would dominate the market, but within a year or two I believe Riverfarm would be able to compete in the marketplace for quality, if not quantity.
What?
The exclamation went around the circle of nobles. Laken only laughed lightly.
Is it such a stretch of the imagination, Lord Tourant? I did not choose to showcase these trebuchets simply as entertainnt. Indeed, Im confident my people can begin mass-producing trebuchets within another month. After more testing is done for safety and efficiency purposes, obviously.
But that would be incredible! No one in Izril exports anything like this! Youre telling I an to say that youre able to create these things at will, Emperor Laken? Your Majesty? Have you an [Engineer]?
Laken tilted his head thoughtfully as Lord Tourant tried to press him without giving offense. He shrugged.
I have two [Engineers] already, Lord Tourant.
Two
Of course it was difficult for them to construct the first trebuchet, but copying a design is much simpler than creating one from scratch. Naturally such devices would not be cheap and a small team would need to be trained for its use, but it would be one of a few engineered devices I plan to sellto a select list of clients, of course.
This ti there was silence. Lord Tourant opened his mouth, hesitated, and found himself unable to ask the obvious question. Select clients? More such devices?
Your Majesty, are you intending to create a market for engineered devices in northern Izril?
Lady Bevia peered closely at Laken. He smiled.
Its a thought, isnt it? Unless you disagree, Lady Bevia?
The old [Lady] tapped her lips thoughtfully with one painted fingernail.
Nobut Pallass has long been known to host the greatest [Craftsn] and other artisans on the continent. Our port cities import new goods, but the Drakes have had a monopoly on innovation for centuries. Surely you dont intend to challenge a Walled City?
Rael held his breath, wondering if the Emperor would take offense. But Bevias question only provoked an amused chuckle from Laken.
Why not? Humans are at least capable of what Drakes and other species are. Perhaps more. This device is one small step. But I am sure that humanity has much, much further to go.
The nobles stared at him. More. Laken turned to his trebuchet, a device that bordered on magic with a proud smile. But that wasnt what kept Raels eyes on him. No.
It wasnt just pride. It was confidence, certainty that made Raels heart beat faster for a mont. Emperor Laken just smiled as he turned to the trebuchet.
Humans can be more. In a world where Humans fell behind other races superior qualitiesthe strength of Minotaurs, the willpower of Drakes, the speed of Garuda, the adaptability of Lizardfolkthey had won by being more well-rounded, more prolific than other races. But Laken spoke about humanitys potential.
A blind man with a vision. It drew people to him, Rael included. Laken turned back to them and Rael heard the young woman standing next to the trebuchet calling an all clear. She pulled a rope and the machine hurled another boulder far into the distance. The cheering as it landed and applause was deafening. Laken just smiled once more, a mysterious, welcoming smile.
Believe , this is only the start. A trebuchet is a piece of technology, an achievent that requires no magic or class to operate. Once built it is capable of being used by anyone. Man, woman, childso long as they understand how it works. Ah, and I see the second one is loaded. Would any of you like to try aiming and firing it, by any chance?
He looked around and Rael found himself shouting to be the first to try.
-
Its funny, but I think the most surprising part of todays demonstration was when one of the young [Lords] asked if the trebuchet could throw him. Lord Andres, I think it was. That was slightly startling, but what got was that everyone thought it was a completely natural suggestion.
I had to explain to the excited nobles, patiently, that it didnt matter if soone cast a [Featherfall] spell on Andres. The whiplash of being thrown by the arm of the trebuchet might kill him before he had to worry about landing. Im not about to risk a [Lord] dying on my lands, thanks.
I guess its a natural thought to have. If youre an idiot. Lord Andres strikes as one of the rash, more impulsive young nobles. Theyre not all insane, though. Ive noticed so of them who seem quite interesting. That Lord Pattin for one. And theyre all a lot less rowdy than they were yesterday. I suppose I have the fey to thank for that.
Hi, Im Laken Godart. [Emperor] of the Unseen Empire, etc. Last night I hosted a banquet with actual faeries from another world, and today Im showing off my trebuchets. It happens.
So you can throw a smaller weight even further. Dead gods, this thing can shoot as far as three longbows! What a wonder!
Im standing at the heart of an excited group of nobles from Izril. Mostly nthe won have retired to the shade to watch the trebuchets firing. Those that arent getting a chance to aim it and fire it themselves. Its rather like a carnival attraction, with people lined up, wanting a chance to point it and loose a stone.
Were using smaller projectiles for this demonstration on a scaled-down model of the trebuchet that Tessia and my people have built. That way we dont have to cart the gigantic hundred-pound stones back and forth. The trebuchets arm keeps swinging up in my mind and then being pulled back to the ground as the excited [Engineers], [Builders], and [Tinkerers] swarm over it.
The attraction has pulled in hundreds of villagers and theyre being rotated in by Prost to get a look before going back to work. The trebuchets are amazing, I have to admit. But I dont get a chance to admire them; Im already starting my sales pitch. I smile calmly at the excited [Lord] talking to and sigh as if Im a bit disappointed.
Its quite an accomplishnt. But Id hardly call it a wonder, Lord lbore.
What? But if you can strike a target a thousand feet away
Lord lbore is a heavy man, standing in front of . I can sense him in my mindand sll him too. Hes sweating in the morning sun. I cut him off with a knowing smile as the nobles around edge forwards to listen.
A device like this can hurl a stone capable of destroying a city wallan unenchanted city wall, if its not burned or destroyed by the enemy first. It has quite an impressive range, but its hardly useful in a mobile battle, is it? And for all the stone is large, Id imagine it could easily miss groups of running soldiers.
True.
Tourant nods and I hear a few other disappointed murmurs of agreent. The [Lords] here might be lesser nobility of the realm, but theyve all probably seen actual battle. They have to defend their lands, and that instills a level of practicality in each of them. I nod, letting them know Ive considered the problem.
Adaptability is key, gentlen. If a trebuchet were only useful for this one purpose, it would be a poor defense indeed. HoweverMister Helm! Miss Tessia! Would you prepare one of the special rounds for our guests to watch?
I raise my voice and turn. Mister Helm, the [Blacksmith] of Windrest and Tessia, the young woman that Gal is besotted with, imdiately bow and rush towards the larger trebuchet. Entranced, the [Lords] follow them like curious sheep. I watch, knowing exactly what will happen.
The open fields in front of the trebuchets are clear and no one is allowed to head out into them or near the trebuchets while theyre firing. But now everyone is told to step back and as Tessia loads the special ammunition I see Mister Helm rechecking the sling and fra of the trebuchet.
Good. Ive gone over the need for safety with the engineering team assigned to testing and building the trebuchets again and again. The last thing I want is soone dying while making one of these things. Im afraid its only a matter of ti, but it wont be today or tomorrow if I can help it.
Trebuchet clear?
Trebuchets clear!
Alright then! Three, two, one!
Tessias the one to pull the rope. Shes a lot younger than Mister Helm, but shes one of two [Engineers] and she was not only the first to acquire the class, but shes the highest-leveled of the two. It was quite amazing to see how she took to the trebuchetsTessia, a young woman who had lived on a farm all her life and found her vocation making weapons of war.
Because thats what this trebuchet is. I watch the arm go up in my head. I cant see it of course, but I can sense the sling lifting its payload into the air. I can sense the small objects before theyre flung across the field and spray into the ground and a few of the trees, cracking and making loud thuds. Few of the stones made it much further than one or two hundred feet away, but the spread of the volley makes the nobles jump.
What in the na of Dragons?
The nobles are staring ahead, trying to figure out what was thrown. I stroll over and interrupt them before they can badger Tessia or Helm. Theyre still nobles after all, and they look down upon anyone but Lady Rie and I. So I look down on them, just to make things fair.
Stones, Lord Tourant. Hand-sized stones, packed up and thrown at speed. With enough trebuchets firing at once, you could take down a charging armyassuming you were able to move and load them quickly enough, of course.
Its a simple concept. The trebuchet can be loaded with a heavy stone to knock down a wall, or smaller stones to shred an enemy army. Im sure armor would protect so people, but a stone hurled that fast and far? It would be devastating. And it makes the trebuchets Im showing off that much more valuable. As a defense for my empire, and as an attraction for the nobles visiting . I clear my throat as the [Lords] begin arguing how well that would work against an army.
Let us resu our demonstrations. Unless anyone wishes to retire? No? Well, I believe there are refreshnts available in the shade. I would be happy to discuss a few aspects of the construction and usage of the trebuchets there. If anyone will join ? Ah, Lady Bevia. And Lady Bethal. How kind of you.
I step to one side as the n jostle each other, wanting a chance to fire the larger catapult. Two won sweep towards . Lady Bevia, the older of the two Venifords and Lady Bethal Walchas, followed as always by her silent husband, Lord Thomast.
Emperor Laken, thank you so much for the entertaining diversion!
Lady Bethals voice is high and light and she gently places her hands in mine as she laughs. I smile back, although I can still feel a bit of a prickling aura around her, just barely there but visible. Behind her, Thomast bows, as silent as a rock. But I can tell hes watching .
Indeed. I had wondered how you might top the banquet of last night, but I find myself underestimating you yet again, your Majesty. Truly a magnificent demonstration. I only fear I will have to drag away my nephew.
Lady Bevias voice is welcoming and warm as well. I smile at both won and keep my guard up. Of all the nobles present, these two strike as the sharpestand most dangerous.
You are too kind Lady Bethal, Lady Bevia. Im delighted you chose to stay another day. I had hoped this showcase would please you, but do let know if youd wish to rest or seek other entertainnt. There is a limit to how long one can be interested in throwing stones, I fear.
Nonsense!
Lady Bethal laughs as she half-turns to look at the trebuchets.
A diversion? To abandon this? You do yourself and your people too little credit, Emperor Laken. I have seen magic shows and curiosities from other lands, but this is truly fascinating. Its a thing of wood and yet it throws stones as if theyre light as feathers! How amazing. I dont suppose youve settled on a price? Or may I make a bid for the first six of them you care to sell?
I try not to blink in surprise.
I must confess I hadnt given it much thought yet, Lady Bethal. These trebuchets are still being tested and my team is working to perfect them.
Theyre capable of being fired, but accuracy, maximum range, and putting them on wheels are all challenges Ive given the team of villagers Ive assigned to the issue. Not that they mind working around the clock; the engineering team loves to fire the trebuchets as much as the crowd and theyd work long into the night if I let them.
Its all trial and error with them, but the fact that they could roll out two fully functioning trebuchets by the ti the nobles arrived makes feel I should reward them. It feels like only a few days ago that they were still trying to figure out what wood to use. To deflect Bethals interest I turn to her husband.
Lord Thomast, would you care to try one?
You are too kind, Your Majesty. But I will be content to watch.
Drat. The man bows his head slightly but seems determined not to let his wife be alone for a second. And why not? I nearly died of poison at my own banquet yesterday. Not exactly a ringing endorsent of safety. Lady Bethal seems completely at ease, but I have a feeling that her cheerfulness is sotis feigned. Perhaps not now, though. She claps her hands together.
Thomast is a bore, your Majesty. He never tries new things. On the other hand, I would love to try firing a trebuchet again. I nearly hit the tree I was aiming at, didnt I, Thomast?
You did.
I cover a smile. A good actor, perhaps. But I cant imagine she and Thomast are pretending to be husband and wife. Theyre too clearly fond of each other. I have a thought and beckonGal is by my side in an instant.
Yes, your Majesty?
Hes been watching all day, which is uncomfortable, but suits his duties. I think hes worried about being assassinated tooLady Rie, Mister Prost, Durene, and Wiskeria were all adamant that I have at least one person by my side in the midst of the nobility. Never mind that I could spot a knife coming. Although I didnt spot the poisonthey have a point.
Now at least I can get rid of him for a second. I turn my head and whisper a request into his ear and hes gone in a flash. I make polite conversation with Bethal and Bevia before Gal hurries back to with two objects being carried between two n.
Whats this?
Lady Bethal turns and claps her hands as she sees two smaller trebuchets being placed on the ground in front of her. Id nearly forgotten about them, but the prototypes are just as functional as the real thing. I sense Bethal circling around the miniature trebuchets and poking at the sling, exclaiming with genuine interest.
Oh! Theyre like childrens toys! How delightful!
I cough as Lady Bethal hovers around the smaller prototype.
Childrens toys that can knock a hole in the wall of a house, Lady Bethal. Please dont fire it into the crowd. But if you would like to perfect your aim, Im sure Tessia could show you how to calibrate the trebuchet yourself.
Would you? Oh, how kind!
Bethal is drawn away as Tessia cos over. In a mont shes hurling smaller stones at a tree with comndable accuracy. Bethal laughs, waving at her husband.
How marvelous! This is so much fun, Thomast! Go on, give it a try!
He walks over, leaving alone with Lady Bevia. She smiles at and Im reminded of a grandmother speaking to a grandson.
You have no end to your surprises, do you, Emperor Laken?
I try to please, Lady Bevia.
May I ask where all these designs co from? Or perhaps your strange court? I hate to press you directly, but you have been adroitly evading answering anything about your past.
I pause. My strange court. Bevia glances at , and I sense her gaze like a physical thing.
It is quite strange. No one speaks of last night and I barely recall what happened in its entirety. Those strange, wild folk, the things I recallwould you care to explain any of it, your Majesty?
What can I say? I shrug my shoulders, lightly, rembering.
Green. Laughter, the brilliant folk dancing and singing, and then laughing and buzzing. The bright frost in her eyes.
A mory. Thats what last night was. Forever ago, despite it not having been more than twenty four hours since the fae danced among us. But the next day people woke, so with scars, many with mories both bright and troubling and no one spoke about it. It was as if what had happened was long ago, and even Oswalt, one of the injured lordlings, treated his injuries as if they had justbeen.
Acceptance. There was no regret, no fury at recalling. It had happened. It had been done. It was in the past and they had lived through it. None of the [Lords] and [Ladies] spoke of what they had witnessed, although many looked at differently. But bla, guiltnone of that was in the way they spoke.
Faerie magic. I shiver as I think of it. Theres sothing terrifying about that, more than there would be if we just forgot. It speaks to of bargains with the fae, of promises that cant be broken.
What is, is. What has been agreed cannot be turned back. More than ever I wonder just how much I risked. But the reward is the respect of the nobility. As for Lady Bevia
I could not tell you even if I tried, Lady Bevia.
She regards for a long while.
I suppose you could not, at that. So things even [Emperors] may not explain. But you are strange, your Majesty. You have so many secrets and you have given us precious few answers.
The mory of last night fades between us even before Bevia is finished speaking. On firr ground I keep my voice light, put a tiny smile on my face.
Have I? I do apologize. I an only to entertain, not drag down the conversation with boring details about my past.
I turn my head innocently and Bevia laughs quietly.
Oh, what a charming young man! One capable of subtlety and deceityour Majesty, you are an enigma! Where do you hail from? Why did you decide to settle in Riverfarm? Would you do the great courtesy of hinting at one of these questions? For an old ladys sake.
Clever old won are to be feared. I waver and nearly give in. Theres sothing so charming about Lady Bevia that makes want to answer her, at least in part. But before I can reply, a voice speaks.
Oh Bevia, you mustnt press his Majesty to answer anything about his past! He is an [Emperor] after allmonarchs are entitled to their secrets!
I hear a bright voice and a sigh from Bevia. A woman approaches the two of us, her voice smooth, her dress shifting as she strides quickly across the grass to our position. I feel the urge to confess fading and smile at the woman in gratitude.
Thank you, Lady Rie.
She glides past and I nod to her politely. Bevia mutters what sounds like an insult before she greets Lady Rie warmly. I could almost swear I heard dont get in the way, but my ears must be playing tricks on because Lady Rie greets her warmly and Bevia is just as delighted to et her.
Knives under the table. I back away as Rie takes my place in the line of fire, laughing and speaking sweet nothings. Theres a lot I have yet to say to Lady Rie, but Im grateful for her presence today. She takes Bevia off my hands and I back up. Normally Id stay and learn from her, but sothings just crossed my mind. I frown and turn my head. What is?
Laken?
Durene is walking towards , sweating but happy. I wave to her distractedly. Theres sothing in my mind. I cast my thoughts across my empire and barely sense Durene being intercepted by a group of villagers begging for her help in the village. What is it?
Theres sothing at the corner of my mind. A thought. Apresence. Many presences. I frown, and then my eyes widen.
Scheie!
My exclamation makes several heads turn, but no one speaks German so I pretend I stepped on a rock. Hardly [Emperor]-like, but it makes my reaction. I dont turn around or give any other reactionnow Bevia and Bethal are both watching , along with so other nobles. The beauty of being blind and having the ability to see in every direction is that I can control my reactions. So I calmly turn my head towards the young man hovering a few feet away from .
Gal?
Yes, sire?
Get Wiskeria, Beniar, andno, only those two.
Yes sir!
He straightens at once, sounding alard. I hold up a hand, speaking with a slight smile on my face for those watching.
Dont run. But do it quick. And dont make it obvious what youre doing. If anyone asks, especially Lady Rie, make an excuse.
Yes, sire.
Gal turns and hurries off. Its believable enough that I dont worry as I turn my mind back to the shadows lurking far in the distance. And to Lady Rie. Should I tell her? Shes with Lady Bevia. Should I tell them?
Nono need to cause drama. And how would I explain knowing, anyways? So things should be kept secret. How much do I trust the nobles here? Not a lot, despite them being impressed with . How much do I trust Lady Rie? Wella bit. But only as far as Durene can throw her. Not as far as a trebuchet could.
I back away from the nobles gathering around the trebuchets, pretending that I need to pee. No, no need to alarm anyone that doesnt need alarming. Wiskeria is on the outskirts of the village and Gal has already found Beniar. Ill walk and et them. I nod to myself, my mind racing as I count. Its not bad news. Okay, it is horrible, terrifying news, but its not the end of the world. And weve planned for this, Wiskeria and I.
Calm. Be calm. I breathe in and out slowly, lowering my heart rate. I have people with skillsets devoted best to one activity. Lady Rie is a negotiator, a diplomat. She can do her job. She doesnt need to know everything. I nod to Wiskeria and Beniar as both stroll over and try to think of the best spot where I can retire with them. What excuse should I use?
Emperor Laken?
Theyre hurrying towards , Beniar on horseback. I wave at them and make them slow. Act natural. Be calm. A leader is calm and leads from appearance as much as anything else. No one else needs to know what I tell them, so I hurry them into Wiskerias cottage. And begin to make plans.
-
Plans. It was already evening by the ti Wiskeria strode through the village. Shed been in her ho for the last few hours, speaking with Beniar, Prost, and Laken when he wasnt busy attending to the nobles who wanted his attention. Thankfully the crowd was still occupied with the trebuchets. Laken had expressed incredulity at how long the nobles were fixated on them, but it made sense to everyone else.
A trebuchet was a wonder of chanical engineering, sothing as unique as any spell. He treated it like sothing normal, but Wiskeria knew she could have lived for decades and died before ever seeing such a device. Theyd fascinated her when shed seen the first big one firing. Now they reassured her. Even if they werent part of the plan.
She was headed towards her people, her army. They trained and patrolled when they werent actually fighting and they stayed out of the village to avoid getting in the way of the builders. Wiskeria needed to do a thousand things, so the only thing that kept her from running was Lakens order to pretend nothing was wrong. Still, Wiskeria wanted to run.
She was hurrying, her heart pounding with anxiety and determination. Not fear or at least, not much; she had a plan and she trusted her [Emperor].
Her [Emperor]. What a thought! But he had proven himself ten tis over, and this latest crisis just showed Wiskeria how right she was to place her trust in him. What would have happened if he hadnt been there to warn them all days in advance? What would have happened if? She shook her head.
Wiskeria was hurrying, but she slowed as she saw the woman in the black-and-white frilled dress walking towards her. Sacras face was calm, austere, the perfect image of a [Maid]. But there was still a trace of Odveig in her, brash and confident. Seeing her was a shock that put her duties out of Wiskerias mind for a mont. The [Witch] slowed and adjusted her pointed hat. Sacra paused as well and the [Witch] and [Maid] regarded each other in the dirt street.
Wiskeria. Im glad to see youre doing well.
Odveig.
Sacra, please. That is my true na, although I understand that you might be confused after knowing for so long.
The [Maid] smiled. Wiskeria did not.
Theres not much to understand. A traitor and a spy is a traitor and a spy, no matter how well you think you knew her.
Sacras smile didnt vanish, but it did fade a fraction.
A traitor? I admit that I deceived you, Wiskeria. But I never intended to cause you or my team harm. I saved you from Emperor Lakens suspicion as you recall.
He was only suspicious of because you were spying on him.
True.
Sacra shrugged her shoulders nonchalantly. Wiskeria stared. Odveig would have blustered or cracked a joke. She didnt have half the calm aplomb that this strange [Maid] did. And yet she shifted her stance the sa way. Her face was the sa. Wiskeria gritted her teeth.
Tell , was it all fake? All of our close encounters, the way we stood by each other? Was all that just an act?
Would you like to say it was?
The [Maid] raised an eyebrow. Wiskeria waited, folding her arms. Sacra sighed.
Wis, I
My na is Wiskeria.
Very well. General Wiskeria, I was your friend. And I was your team leader. And I was a spy. I can be all these things at once. I regret fleeing, but I had a mission that transcended friendship. And I have duties that carry back here.
Wiskeria thought about tossing fire at Sacras face and seeing if her uniform caught on fire. But she held back. Sacra was probably far deadlier than Odveig had ever been.
Rather tactless to send the sa spy that was uncovered, isnt it? Is Magnolia Reinhart that crude?
Not at all. Shes being honest. If she wanted to alarm Emperor Laken, shed send soone whom he had no idea of. He knows I am a spy, so he wont waste ti with subtleties. There are at least three people watching my every move.
Three? Wiskeria had heard Laken ordering two people to shadow Sacra. The [Witch] turned [General] filed that information away. Sacra regarded her a mont and then bowed.
Id love to talk more, but Im afraid I have pressing business, Wiskeria. As do you, it seems.
What are you doing?
Wiskerias hostile tone had no effect on Sacra.
I must et with Emperor Laken. Lady Reinhart has considered his reception of the nobility and his little demonstration of this morning and sent a response.
She held up a letter. Wiskeria opened her mouth to ask what was in it, hesitated, and turned. Shed wasted too much ti and Lakens na had reminded her of what she had to do.
I wish you the best of it. Not that I think his Majesty will receive you warmly.
I did request an audience. And his feelings towards are largely irrelevant. Im sure I will speak to you later, Wiskeria. Until then.
Sacra walked calmly past Wiskeria. The [Witch] stared after her, angry, wanting to say so much more, and then tugged her hats brim lower on her head.
Later? Not if were all dead.
Then she strode off, her robes swirling around her. And the Emperor of the Unseen Empire received Sacra on his throne.
-
Of all the people I dont feel like eting at the mont, Sacra is probably highest on that list. But I could hardly ignore her request once I got it, so I give her an audience in the eting hall on my wooden throne. I shift uncomfortably, feeling the smooth, carved eyeball on my armrest with one hand as I scan Sacra in my minds eye. Shes a [Maid] from head to toe, without any accessories save for a ring on her finger. No hidden daggers, no concealed weapons I can senseI still dont relax. Once the formalities are over I cut straight to the point.
I hope Wiskeria didnt treat you with any hostility?
Not at all. She was quite polite.
Sacra smiles, not at all unsettled by my knowledge of their eting. Ive been following her around in my head when I havent been distracted and shes done nothing out of the ordinary. Still, I have every reason to suspect her and so Ive put two watchers on her at all tis.
Im also wary of her being alone with , which is why Durene is standing next to my throne and Gal and Prost are standing at the eting halls doors. If it ca to a fight, I worry that Sacra might beat Durene like last ti, weapons or not. But I dont think itll co to that. And if they need to raise an alarm, Im sure Lady Rie will raise it.
Shes standing just outside the eting hall. I refused to let her join in. Not because I think shell steer the wrong way. I think she might do it by accident. Lady Magnolia manipulated both her and with ease with a simple letter. Id hate to know what Sacra could do.
Im glad Wiskeria didnt offer you any offense. Although I cant say I would reproach her for holding a grudge either. It is slightly unpleasant to look at soone you thought you trusted.
Sacras face doesnt change one whit. She just gives a small, aningless smile, the kind any [Maid] would give a disliked employer.
I do apologize. But Lady Reinhart thought it would be best that soone you knew deliver her words personally, and I was the best choice. You are, of course, free to eject from your empire, but Lady Reinhart values courtesy in her friends. Her enemies are free to be as crude as they wish, for as long as they live.
Was that a threat? Durene makes an ominous sound, but I pat her hand.
I dont appreciate the warning, Sacra. Why is it that you wanted to see ?
Without missing a beat, Sacra replies.
Lady Reinhart has observed your reception of the small group of nobles through , Emperor Laken. She is quite impressed with your guestsas well as todays demonstration of your trebuchets.
How does she know about the fae and the trebuchets? Sacra was not invited to either gathering. Still, Im not surprised.
Im glad shes so invested, particularly considering that she forced all of this on .
She does apologize for the inconvenience, your Majesty. But trust is a commodity in short supply, particularly of late. Lady Reinhart bids to inform you that she is impressed with your empire and would like to offer you peace.
I raise one eyebrow.
Peace? Dont I have peace already?
This ti its Sacra who interjects a bit of strife into her tone.
Emperor Laken, please be serious. You know that there is no peacenot between you and Lady Reinhart at least. She has surveyed your lands, tested you, and sent to observe your qualities as a leader. She has been rightfully wary of you.
Why? Why am I so dangerous?
It feels like everyones warned of Magnolia Reinhart. Shes a cunning monster, a threat, a ruthless tyrantRyoka, Lady Rie, everyones afraid of her. But what did I ever do to bother her? Start a small empire? From what I understand, Magnolia Reinhart has a hundred tis as much land as I do. But its Sacras response that puts it into clarity.
Because you are an [Emperor].
Ah.
Sacra stares at . I sit back in my throne. My throne, where three months ago I was living in Durenes cottage. Now I sit in my growing village, with trebuchets being built and nobles following around, trying to curry favor. I can sort of see her point.
Well, I suppose that would be alarming to a [Lady], particularly one of Magnolia Reinharts power.
Indeed. But she is prepared to put aside her wariness and offer you peace, Emperor Laken.
Peace. You keep saying that word, but what would that entail?
Sacra spreads her hands.
An imdiate cessation of hostilities. No aggressive or hostile actions towards you or anyone in your domain without formal notification. Recognition of your sovereign rights. Support for your growing empire in the form of connections, trade, political support
That sounds good. Good, if a little vague. But I could see Magnolia Reinharts acknowledgent helping deal with other cities, centing my influence. I lean back in my throne as Durene shifts from foot to foot.
And what would all of this cost ?
Sacra smiles, confirming my suspicions. She holds up a finger.
One request. For the next four months, you will refuse to sell your trebuchets or any other weapons of war to any other party in Izril. You will not gift them, or let the secrets of their manufacture be spread.
I blink.
She wants that?
Yes, your Majesty. It is a simple request. Afterwards you would be free to pursue whatever business interests you please.
I frown. Why would four months matter? I eye Sacra, wondering if shell answer and dont bother with that question. Instead I ask the more pressing one.
Assuming I did agree, what guarantee would I have that Lady Reinhart would keep her word? A contract? Paper and ink are poor reassurance, I feel.
The [Maid] standing in front of gives a slight frown, as if Ive asked a truly stupid question.
Lady Reinhart would hardly trust this to a verbal agreent, Emperor Laken. She proposes signing a binding contract, enforced by magic. It is quite common among the nobility when trust or a grave matter is at stake. It would of course be authenticated by a third partyWistram, for example.
I see.
Crap, I should have known thatwas how things would work. I keep my face straight as I think of all this. No selling trebuchets for four months? It has to be too good to be true. I could still build them, refine them, market them to otherswhy wait for months? What does she get? I mull over the possibilities until I realize Sacra is taking sothing out of her pocket.
Hey!
Durene sees the motion and lurches forwards. Sacra withdraws a small letter and raises her hands.
I an no harm. I have a letter from my mistress, transcribed, of course. It is not dangerous in any way.
Ill give it to him.
Durene snatches the letter from Sacra and sniffs it suspiciously. She clearly doesnt have any idea of whether or not its poisoned and looks helplessly towards before licking the paper gingerly. I cover my face and try not to laugh as Sacra gives Durene the first genuine look of surprise I think shes made so far. After a second in which Durene blushes fiercely, she hands the letter. I lift it and sigh.
Your mistress does know I cant read, doesnt she?
She does. But so things are best conveyed formally. I have morized the contents by heart. If you would allow ?
Sacra waits until I nod and then begins to speak. I feel Durene peering over my shoulder and hear her trying to read the letter. Shes still on the first sentence by the ti Sacra finished. The letter is short and Sacra delivers the stunning missive without changing her tone of voice.
To His Majesty, Emperor Laken,
Thank you so very much for entertaining my dear friend Bethal and the other nobles which I so rudely foisted on you the other day. Sacra tells you handled their reception wonderfully, if slightly unconventionally, and it has put my mind at ease. You have shown tact, deliberation, and restraint and for that I deem you to be a rare exception to your class, a delight.
After so consideration, I have decided that I am quite content to suffer your presence on my continent, your Majesty. And I foresee the potential benefits of a relationship with your empire. But my goodwill towards your empire only goes hand-in-hand with my demands. Sacra has given you my request and I trust you will agree to it, as this agreent would be wholly beneficial towards you and your empire. Keep your damn trebuchets out of sight.
Magnolia Reinhart
The silence after Sacra finishes makes wonder whether I should clean out my ears theatrically, or just sit in silence for a while and wait for soone to laugh. But I do neither. I can sense Gal and Prost giving each other nervous looks, but Sacra waits, as patient and as still as a statue. Her eyes are on . At last I raise my head.
And she wants my response?
Sacra smiles politely.
By the ti I depart with the other nobility. By all ans, take your ti to consider Lady Reinharts proposal, Emperor Laken. But be sure of your answer by the ti I leave.
Her eyes never waver as she curtsies. I keep my face blank and remain as still as possible. This ti Im sure that was a threat.
Day 99
What the hell does Magnolia Reinhart want? Apparently that question is one for the ages because my impromptu council of diplomacy all agrees that few people ever know what the Deadly Flower of the North truly wants. Magnolia Reinhart can be as straightforward as a poisoned arrow to the chest, or as twisted as a garlic braid. Thats Durenes analogy, by the way. I had no idea you twisted garlic braids. How do you twist garlic, anyways? Isnt it a bulb? Or is garlic different in this world?
Prost, Rie, and Durene dont ever answer on that. What they do do is argue for over an hour over why Magnolia would want not to sell my trebuchetstheir speculation ranging from her desire to corner the market herself, to a suspicion that she doesnt want nobles killing each other and besieging cities until shes ready for it to happenwithout any real consensus. They agree her outlined terms are good, generous even. Theyre only wary of signing any deal with Magnolia Reinhart. Especially Lady Rie.
The problem isnt whether signing it would be better or worse for your empire, your Majesty. The problem is whether or not not signing it would be worse, and which option Magnolia Reinhart wants you to pick!
The [Lady] paces back and forth as I massage my head and try and understand what she just said.
It sounds like she was fairly clear about what she wanted, Lady Rie.
Anything that woman says cannot be trusted!
Lady Rie grumbles as I sigh and walk around the table in Mister Prosts ho. His house has beco sothing of a planning room for us and I feel bad for invading so often. Maybe I should make this the official eting room and give him another house. A bigger one. But there are mories here too. Death, the snow, life
And here we are, talking about [Ladies] and deals involving magic treaties and empires. I smile and run my hands over sothing on the table. A map. I cant tell whats on it, but I can sense the markers that Lady Rie has carefully put on there for my convenience.
Interesting map. What do the flags represent on so of the cities?
Ah. Those would be the cities allied to you, Emperor Laken.
Allied to ? I dont know if thats accurate.
They offer you goods for protection, respond to your requests for reinforcents, and send emissaries to you, your Majesty. What else would we call them? Allies? Or perhaps vassals is more accurate?
I grimace.
Good point. Alright then, wheres Riverfarm? Where are we?
Youre touching our flag, your Majesty.
I pause and feel the tallest flag.
Oh.
The map slowly appears before . In my mind I can sense my empire, but the map is different. It skips all the geography and lays the cities, towns, and villages out for in the plainest of terms. Riverfarm is here, bordered by a forest and river and close to a small mountain.
Its shielded in one sense, isolated in another. But now its growing, connecting to nearby settlents, most of which are mine. Theyre under my protection, within my sphere of influence. But as my fingers move east and north they run into small, round objects.
And the stones? What do these represent?
Those are the cities and towns that are firmly against you, Emperor Laken. They refuse to acknowledge your claim to Riverfarm or trade with us.
Huh.
I rember getting so hostile letters, but I hadnt realized there were a number of cities that actively boycotted . I run my hands over the citiesmost far from Riverfarm on the mapand recall what Sacra said.
Maybe they just dont trust an [Emperor] who appeared out of nowhere.
Perhaps. But they might well be influenced by the other nobles to oppose you. Not just Reinhartit would be just like her to work through fools like Lord Tourant rather than having to intercede herself.
Wait, Tourant has a hand in this?
I frown, confused. Lady Rie sighs.
Among others. His touch is particularly tactless; he is an old friend of the [Mayor] of Elkhanhere, your Majesty.
She takes my hand and places it gently on a village. I hear Durene mutter sothing and Rie lets go. I feel the hard stone underneath my fingers.
Okay, but what does that give him?
Any number of things. Refusing to allow trade caravans through if theyre carrying your goods, refusing to buy or sellIts ant to pressure your economy, your Majesty. Perhaps offer friendly lords like Tourant a better deal. That goes for military assistance as well. If you didnt have your Skill and General Wiskerias army, it might be cause for alarm.
Wiskeria. I nod carefully, searching for her with my mind. Ah, yes, there.
Well, if they want to avoid us they can suffer the consequences. For now, Im more interested in our ability to mobilize our allies. Say trouble arises, Lady Rie. Can we contact all of these settlents via [ssage] spell swiftly?
Lady Rie pauses for a mont.
All of the larger cities, yes, your Majesty. The smaller townsperhaps not. It depends on whether they have a [Mage] capable of receiving the spell. Most do, but others must be reached via Runner or ssenger.
Good. In that case well regard all these allies as my assets. And if we sign a treaty with Magnolia Reinhart and trade cos down the main roads
I trace my hands east and north, thinking. It would be valuable. And if her na makes so of these uncooperative cities open their gatesI keep thinking as Lady Rie talks with Prost about the pros and cons of interacting with a huge city like Invrisil.
You may be able to secure enough trade and deals with nobles as it is, your Majesty. Lady Reinhart does not control every noble of Izril.
Lady Rie sounds hopeful. I nod thoughtfully.
True. Sothing to bear in mind. And of course, thats what I have to do next, isnt it?
I straighten and turn. Lady Rie sounds relieved.
Yes, your Majesty. We could debate Lady Reinhartsoffer later. But for now I believe every adult [Lord] and [Lady] wishes to speak with youprivately. As do a few of the younger ones. Shall we entertain them in the eting hall?
I sigh. This is what Ive been dreading.
I suppose we shall.
-
I et them one-by-one or sotis in pairs in my throne room. They sit in chairs while I sit on my throne. Its awkward, looking down on them and they seem to feel it too. But keeping them off-guard matters, and Lady Rie is there to ensure that she and I get the best deal for Riverfarm.
Not that I know what that is. I do know how to act, just not what I want. So when Lord Tourant cos in hinting about profitable trade deals, or Lady Fel hints that she might be interested in a trebuchet or two for a friend and as a matter of discretion, I play my ga.
An [Emperor]s ga. Its quite simple. They hope to get sothing from and dangle bait, offering things both precious and petty. I respond by offering bigger bait for them.
Why yes, Lord Tourant, I could see an exclusive trade agreent doing very well between our estates. If its an issue of gold, I might be persuaded to buy your entire harvest ofwhat was it you said you sold? Cotton? Yes, theres certainly a need and Id offer you, say, market pricebut that is a large commitnt to get into right away, wouldnt you say? Oh, would you like another cup of wine?
Lady Fel, a gift of a trebuchet or two would hardly be fitting. Why not eight? For a friendwell of course this is all hypothetical, but I trust my people to produce them quickly and I feel that a gift would be appropriate forwhat? Of course all eight! A gift of one or two would be miserly, wouldnt it?
Its fun listening to people choke on their own saliva and greed. And promising gold for raw iron is entertaining as well. I dont have gold. At least, not enough to pay for a tenth of what Im proposing. But what I have now isnt the point. Its what Im offering. Its the image Im creating. And as each [Lord] and [Lady] staggers out of my throne room, envisioning riches and having nothing more than the most tenuous of promises, my perceived wealth and power grows.
And thats the point. I didnt need for Lady Rie to explain that. I think shes a bit intimidated at how easy it is for , actually. But this is easy, in so respects. Flattery and using people against each other isnt hard. Not like laying out a village is.
One of the final [Lords] I have to talk to is Lord lbore. I clap my arm around his shoulders and sense him tense up, but Im jovial, welcoming. And I forestall whatever he wants with a simple question.
Tell , Lord lbore, where do you see your estates in a years ti. In five years?
, your Majesty? Well, II would be quite interested in a deal with your empire. Im told youre generous to your friends, and between you and , the market can be a cruel mistress. If I could persuade you to buy from exclusively, I could see my estate booming in five years. I could double production as well if I had
I cut the man off as I shake my head.
No, no. Grander.
Excuse , your Majesty?
I sigh.
Think grander, Lord lbore. Im told your lands produce high-quality goods! Food, lumber, a modest business in fletchingbut is that all you want to see out of your lands?
Well, I suppose I could see myself expanding
I cut him off again.
Lord lbore, I am an [Emperor]. When I ca to Riverfarm, it was a small village. It still is, for all that its tripled in size. I look at your lands and seewell, I dont seeunused potential. Dont dream of doubling your profits in ten years. Dream of cornering the market, of becoming a byword, a staple in cities like Invrisil. How much money can you make? What do you have to offer? What could you do with an investnt? Tell , what could you do with an ally? Apatron?
Perhaps I lay it on too thick. Perhaps so of them are intelligent enough to see that Im offering them a cloud with nothing to back it up. But I can hear the gears whirring away in lbores head and by the ti he hurries out of my throne room promising that he would be far better than Lord Tourant at getting what I need, I know that my job is done. But I keep my guard up, because vague promises are easy to combat. Its people who know exactly what they have and what they want that beco trouble.
Four thousand gold pieces for a trebuchet.
I cant offer you one just yet, Lady Bethal.
Eight thousand.
Its not a matter of gold.
Mm. Sixteen
Lady Magnolia has an interest in them.
Oh! Magnolia wants them? Why didnt you say so to begin with? Im hardly going to bother starting a bidding war with herwhy dont I order the ones after hers? Id like ten
Lady Bethal, I dont know when theyll be ready or what the cost may be
I could offer you horses too, if you want. How does a hundred head of horse sound? Six hundred? I have so many! Its quite interesting you knowif you have the right Skills its quite hard to fail at a business venture. Harder if you have a husband like Thomast. Hes very good with numbers.
Lady Bethal, please. Id be happy to work out a deal, but not at this ti.
The lady peers at .
Are you sure? Id hate to think I was missing out on the opportunity ahead of ti. Couldnt I reserve just a teensy trebuchet?
I assure you, when I am at liberty to sell them, yours will be the first na I think of Lady Bethal. I promise you, I am simply not able to accept your money
I glance over at Lady Rie, whos giving complex signals to take the money now! and sigh louder.
at this ti. Im sure I will send you a [ssage] spell shortly. Very shortly, if Lady Rie has anything to do with it.
WellI suppose I have no choice. In that case, I would simply like to extend you my warst gratitude for your hospitality, Emperor Laken. You see, Thomast and I will be departing within the hour and while we would love to stay another night in your lovely, restful bedswe simply must go.
The sudden change of topic nearly gives whiplash.
Youre going? So soon? I was under the impression you were travelling with the other nobles, Lady Bethal.
She laughs lightly.
I was! But Thomast convinced it might not be in my best interests, so we will take our leave before they do. Honestly, he fusses so much about the company we keepbut yes, we will be going.
I see. May I send you an escort to my borders, at least?
Another laugh. I just cannot read Lady Bethals voice or her posturebut for an instant I sense the thorny aura around her grow stronger. Caution?
I fear I must decline. Well be moving swiftly, Emperor Laken. And I have two of my Knights of the Petal with , and Thomast. No [Brigand] has ever troubled .
I consider this. It could be bad if she goes now. I have to ask.
Then may I at least know the direction you intend to travel? As a precaution, you understand. I would hate for you to co to any injury on my lands and my patrols could at least ride ahead of you.
Bethal considers my request and shrugs slightly.
Mm. Very well. Were headed west, I believe. Well be travelling by way of Yaist, perhaps staying the night there. After that? Who can say?
I think about that. West? Well thenI nod and smile politely.
In that case, I can only give you my sincerest regrets for the dangers posed to your person while you stayed in my domain, Lady Bethal. And to you, Sir Thomast. I hope that you will rember with fondness and that we may speak more in the future.
Bethal laughs lightly.
Oh, you are so polite for an [Emperor]! I am truly honored, your Majesty. Neither Thomast nor I take any offense. Althoughwould you consider selling us the tiny trebuchet? As a souvenir?
No.
-
Last but not least is Lady Bevia, and here I have to deviate from my aningless platitudes because she has sothing I need.
Lady Bevia? Might I trouble you for a small favor?
Of course, your Majesty.
I smile and lean over the edge of my throne to Lady Bevia as she sips so tea. Lord Rael is not with her; hes getting in more practice shots with the trebuchet. I understand its a competition now, and theres over two hundred gold pieces riding on whover can hit the targets placed first. At least the nobles are enjoying themselves.
I understand you have a [Mage] among your escort that is capable of sending and receiving [ssage] spells, Lady Bevia. Might I trouble you to borrow her for a small task?
The old woman pauses and takes another sip from her teacup.
That is a rather simple request, your Majesty. May I ask what this little errand might be?
I smile.
Of course, Lady Bevia. And I would be delighted to tell youafterwards, that is. I trust your discretion of course, but I fear I cannot tell you ahead of ti what I am planning.
Really?
Bevia knows Im blind so her eyes narrow just a fraction before she stops herself. She taps her ring finger gently against her cup.
How long would I need to place my [Mage] in your care, Emperor Laken?
Two days at most. I would consider myself in your debt, Lady Bevia.
Hmm.
She ponders my request for a mont and then nods.
So be it. Take my [Mage], by all ans. But will I receive a token of trust in the sa vein, Emperor Laken?
I lean back, relieved. That was essential. I nod at Lady Rie and she hurries out, frowning. She doesnt know what the [Mage] is for, but Wiskeria does. I smile at Lady Bevia, ready to pay for my favor.
What would you like, Lady Bevia?
Nothing taxing. Perhaps a few facts, Emperor Laken. How did you learn to make those trebuchets, for instance? How do they work, exactly? Could anyone make them?
Again, I feel a push at my mind, but this ti Im forewarned by Lady Rie and push back. I smile at the old woman as the charm effect fades from my mind.
I can hardly give away the secrets of trebuchets like party favors, Lady Bevia. But I do have so intriguing treats that may be of interest to you.
Oh? What new delights will you tempt with today, your Majesty?
I laugh.
Nothing so scandalous. But there are a number of treats from my holand that I have succeeded in recreating here. Many more Id like to attempt, but my [Cooks] and [Bakers] can only do so much with my poor understanding. Still, I consider these quite passable. Tell , have you ever had a Franzbrtchen? Dont be alard. How should I put thisa cinnamon roll?
I clap my hands and I see Lady Bevias eyes go wide with interest. Gal walks forwards, the sweet treat on one of Lady Ries ornantal plates. I knew I could find a good use for those fancy things. And of course, theres nothing quite like sweets for a bit of diplomacy. Especially if you know how to make cookies and no one else does. I smile and lean back in my chair.
It turns out Lady Bevia has a sweet tooth.
-
You have the mage?
Shes ready. So is Beniar. Im about to head out myself.
Wiskeria nods to . Shes saddling her horse, and all were waiting on are a few other riders loading their horses. Their saddlebags are stuffed, and Wiskerias own mount is similarly laden.
You got everything you needed? Already?
The [Witch] smiles and pats her restless mare on the sides.
Theres enough hellebore if you know where to look. Your Majestys unique Skills also help greatly in that respect. We can send out pack horses and a small team to gather whats needed. We should be able to collect all of my ingredients within the day and be ready by sunset.
You dont need to find any more?
No, your Majesty. Well be ready tomorrow at any ti.
I sigh in relief.
Gott sei Dank.
What?
Nothing. Sorry, Wiskeria. If I had to scan every single plant within ten miles of here and check if it was the exact one you needed one more ti
She smiles at and adjusts her hat.
I apologize. But it was an ergency and yourtalents are extraordinarily useful.
Dont I know it. Well then, Ill send word the instant sothing changes. But if not, contact as soon as youre ready and Ill coordinate the rest with you tomorrow.
Yes, your Majesty.
Wiskeria nods to and climbs onto her horse. She gently kicks her mount and the other riders stream out of the village after her. I watch her go, feeling anxious, practically trembling with excitent and nerves, but sure, sure that theres nothing I can do. Im too far away and everything is in motion now. All I can do is wait and watch.
For the right mont.
Day 100
I think the nobles are wearing out their welco. Theyre certainly running out of things to do as three straight days of trebuchet testing is enough for the most enthusiastic of them. Well, maybe not Lady Bethal. And Im certain that if I actually let the young n throw themselves thered be a lot more interest. But after eating all of my confectionaries that my hard-working [Bakers] struggled to make, the nobles are finally suggesting returning to their estates.
Lady Bethals departure prompted the idea, but no ones quite ready to pack up just yet. The nobles seem fascinated by the speed at which Riverfarm is developingI think I saw so of the nobles placing bets on how many houses my people could put up by sunset. And they also seem anxious to get a better deal than everyone else, so theyre hanging about for at least one more day. Which is good, because everything is happening today.
Entertain nobles at breakfast, endure etings and private audiences until midday, lunch with Durene in privateeveryone can tell sothing is up. At least, Prost, Durene, Gal, and Lady Rie can. They knew too well. But theyre all too loyal to ask, except for Lady Rie who keeps hinting that she might need to know if sothings afoot. Shed noticed Wiskeria and Beniar are both gone with part of the army, but she doesnt know why.
I intend to keep it that way. And I do manage to distract myself with a mont of inspiration just past lunch. I was mulling over Magnolias proposal, thinking about what Ill tell Sacra. I can sign her stupid parchnt at any tithat just takes a second. But will I? Im on the verge of tossing a coin and asking Durene which side landed face up.
And thats when I had my brilliant idea. It ca while I was watching Tessia try to explain to a group of new volunteers for the engineering team how the trebuchets worked. She was trying to explain the idea of gravity to her audience, sothing Id had to patiently explain to her. And that was when it hit .
Of course!
Its all so clear. All my tentative trade agreents and the proposals crystalize around my new idea, my new understanding of what the Unseen Empire should be. I lean over and poke the young woman snoozing next to . Durene yelps and sits up with a start. She and I were sitting under a tree in the shade and she was resting after hauling trees around all morning.
Durene! I figured it out!
Wha? What? Whats happening, Laken?
Oh, Im sorry. I didnt an to wake you.
No, its fine. Im awake, see? What did you figure out? Tell ?
It was an idea I had. Rember how were trying to figure out what we can offer all these nobles? Aside from the trebuchets Magnolia Reinhart doesnt want us to sell, that is?
Yeah. You and Prost and Rie talked about it all day yesterday.
I know. You didnt have to listen, you know. I kept telling you that you could sleep.
I wanted to be with you. What did you figure out?
WellI think Ive got it.
Okay. Tell .
Just a second! I want to see if you get it.
I grin teasingly and hear Durene groan.
Just tell , Laken! I cant guessIm not smart like you!
Youre very smart, Durene. You just dont like to admit it. Co on. Humor .
Fine. What do I have to do?
Just think. What does Riverfarm have that we can sell, Durene? Im not talking about basic trade goods like pigs, normal crops, and so on. That earns most villages and towns enough to survive. What Im talking about is how Riverfarm, how this entire empire can make a profit. What do we have? Any ideas?
Durene scrunches up her face, sighing and picking at the crumbs in the basket, muttering to herself.
I dont know. Crops? You were talking with Wiskeria about poisonous plants and all kinds of alchemical stuff you could sell just the other day. We could grow fields of that. Not that I want to pick poisonous plants by hand. You know she thinks nettles will sell really well? Nettles!
I cover a smile. A [Witch]s sense of value is definitely different than a farm girls.
Thats true. Were trying to cultivate so crops that [Alchemists] will buy up, but we have to feed ourselves first, Durene. Mister Prost will expand the fields as fast as he can, but thats a long-term investnt. What else do we have?
She scratches at her head.
Umland?
I laugh. Durene fidgets, embarassed.
I told you I dont know!
No, no! Im laughing because youre right, Durene! Thats true! The surrounding area isnt nearly as developed as so places further north. But Izril is vast, Durene. And unused land is cheap, so long as you can protect it.
So it wasnt right.
But it was a good idea. Co on, you can do it. What else do we have?
Amilitary? You can protect roads and charge people money because its so safe!
I nod seriously. Durene is going through all the ideas I had. Shes not slow at all and Im not as smart as people think I am, not by half. But I do have an advantage
Thats right. Assuming we could protect all our land, we would see more trade and people headed towards us. But that relies on us having a truly powerful army and ours is growing
I break off and grimace. I have the ability to levy soldiers, but the core of my army, my people are a few dozen [Riders] and a group of infantry who have seen only a handful of battles. My adventurers make up the best part of that force and theyre few in number. And yetI turn my thoughts northwards.
I can levy a force. I can call on towns and cities and have them send a few [Riders] each, a handful of [Archers], maybe so [Warriors], and thats without there being a crisis. I can form an armybut I will need a bigger one. But perhaps for now
Laken?
Huh? Oh, sorry, Durene.
I realize Ive stopped talking and clear my throat.
Youre really close. But whats the last thing we have, Durene? The last big thing?
Trebuchets?
Nobut youre really close. Its related to them.
Umumis itoh! Our [Engineers]! You can get Tessia and the others to build bridges and mills and all kinds of things!
Durenes face lights up and I give her a small hug.
Almost right!
What? I got it wrong?
Not wrongbut I dont just an the [Engineers], Durene. I an what they do. Engineering.
There are so crackers at the bottom of the lunch basket. Durene slowly reaches down and takes one. She crunches it down.
Okay. YouI an, we have [Engineers]. But our big secret is engineering.
Thats right.
I wait, triumphant and hear a munching sound as Durene cautiously eats another cracker. She thinks for a while longer.
Isnt that the sa thing?
What? No!
It sort of sounds like it. Whats the difference?
Crestfallen, I try to explain.
Durene, do you ever wonder why people in this world suddenly get good at sothing? Like how soone who can barely cook can suddenly make all the basic recipes?
The half-Troll girls thinks about this as she searches for another cracker.
Mmm. Nope.
Really? Its not weird how they can suddenly know how to cook, or fight?
No! They get a Skill, whats weird about that?
I shake my head. I guess it does feel natural to soone in this world.
Thats not normal. What if you tried to learn sothing without a Skill, Durene? Why is it fair that soone has to learn all the steps in a recipe to make bread while soone else can just get a Skill andmake it?
Its fair because they have the Skill. Sotis people dont get it so I guess they have to learn, but a Skill makes things easy, Laken!
Yes, but maybe it makes things too easy.
I dont get what youre saying at all.
I run my hands through my hair, dislodging a leaf.
Look at it this way. When I was telling people how to make trebuchets, I knew how they were made, but not all the details. We were experinting all the ti to figure out how to get them to fire without breaking, how to make sure the sling was the right length
Oh yeah! Rember when it threw that stone straight up? That was so scary!
I nod.
Right. We had to experint, to test our results. But do you recall what happened the next day? Tessia beca an [Engineer] and got a Skill. And then she knew the sling needed to be adjusted and the length shortened slightly. But she couldnt explain why. She had an image of how the trebuchet was firing in her head, Durene!
Oh, like you do!
Exactly. And thats the problem.
Huh?
Durenes forehead wrinkles. I throw up my hands.
It was too easy! All of our hard work, all of our calculationsit didnt matter! Tessia got a Skill and she could finish the trebuchet!
Which is good!
No! Its terrible! It ansit ans we dont learn anything! So what if Tessia can make a trebuchet? If only she can do it, whats the point?
Durene stares at like Im crazy. I lower my hands and try to tell her the big secret I hit on, the secret that ties in to sothing Ryoka told once. This world doesnt change. Technologies stay the sa, civilizations rise, but then fall and what they create doesnt last. The world doesnt change as a whole. Why? Because of the system that governs this world. The system of classes thats holding people back.
Instinct over knowledge. Thats what runs this world, what allows people to cook, build, create, and repair the things around them. Grace without skill. People act using their Skills and never learn how things work. They have a [Basic Cooking] Skill that lets them cook pastawhen they could learn to do the sa by morizing a recipe!
Thats the problem. And all of the grand things in this world, the buildings, armor, even things like candles, are a result of Skills, of individuals with levels. And when those individuals die, that knowledge is lost.
So things are based off of actual science, like arch bridges or windmills. But too often, the [Builder] or [Engineer] constructing the bridge doesnt bother with actual mathematics. They just feel where the keystone in a bridge should be placed, or rely on their Skills to tell whether sothing theyre building will or wont work. And that ans that too often, people wont try new things.
Why should they? Their Skills can do everything they need, or soone elses Skills can. Why write down the schematics for a trebuchet and calculate firing distances and weight and the carrying capacity of wood when an [Engineer] can figure it all out by themselves?
Thats the flaw the people of this world share. They can redesign or perfect, but not innovate. Without a fundantal education, new ideas can spread at a snails pace or worse, be lost. This is what Ryoka was talking about. This is why technology hasnt evolved over thousands of years.
I try to explain all of this to Durene, but she struggles to understand it. Of course. She cos from a world where all this is natural. But I co from a world where learning is passed down, where people cant get Skills so they either teach each other how to do things or dont do it at all. And thats what my big idea is.
Teach them math, Durene. Teach them how to count, how to read and write. Make blueprints, teach people how to create new things without Skills or classes. Make it so anyone can learn to build a trebuchet and gain a class. If I can do that, then I wont have one or two talented [Engineers]. Ill have a hundred. A thousand.
Durenes eyes go wide as she imagines it. Riverfarm, exporting talent, hiring out our people to build bridges, construct and build across Izril.
Wow. But waitif everyone knows how to do things, whats the point of getting the class to begin with?
I laugh.
Theres always a need for Skills, Durene! It makes things easierthats great! But we cant rely on them. And if I can make gaining a rare class like [Engineer] a certainty, then Ill have a monopoly on talent. Thats how Riverfarm will succeed. Not with one [Cataphract], but with a hundred. I need to figure out how to make people gain the classes I want. And to do that
Its a little line in the middle of conversation as I stroll into the village with Durene by my side. An aside to the [Lords] and [Ladies] who co to asking how these cookies are made, horribly mangling the German nas for sweets. I drop it into the conversation when theres a lull.
If you have too many hands, consider sending them here. I believe Lord Tourant was complaining about overcrowding? Well, we have no shortage of tasks to be done, and I would consider it a personal favor.
The [Lords] and [Ladies] blink in surprise, but at once theyre willing to offer so young folk, send a few families, half a village that doesnt really contribute to their estate, to make the journey down the very safe roads. I thank them, smiling, and they brighten up, as if giving free workers and people would take a load off of their shoulders.
Of course I could spare a few people, your Majesty. Of course theyre free citizens, but between you and , theyd jump at the prospect of greener pastures. You might have to take them in hand, but Im sure there are one or two hard workers among the dregs
I would consider it a favor myself, your Majesty! Too many families in one of my villages. As if they cant limit themselves to two children at most! And they complain about a lack of jobswell, they can find work in a city if theyre so hungry for coin!
You are too kind, Lord Tourant. By all ans, let them know theres work to be had here, Lady Fel.
I smile and shake hands and when they draw back to descend on another tray of hot cookies, I shake my head. Its too easy, sotis. How did that saying go?
Give your tired, your poor, your huddled masses
Whats that, sire?
I turn. Gal is standing behind , offering a hot cookie. I nearly laugh, but then I take it and break it in half.
Oh, nothing, Gal. Just sothing I heard once. A lesson, really. A nation needs people to thrive. And talent, raw talent is worth cultivating. Here. Take this.
I offer him half the cookie. Gal backs away.
I couldnt, your Majesty!
I insist. Just dont let the nobles catch you eating it. They might try to take it from you. Wheres Durene? Does she have one?
I turn, taking another cookie from the plate as Gal surreptitiously devours the sweet treat. Durene is hovering around the crowd of grabbing nobles, clearly wanting one. I smile and she turns and beams with delight. Shes never had a treat like this before; sugar is expensive and this is the first ti Ive recreated a food from ho. I smile and laugh and make light conversation with the nobility and dance them along on a string. And all the while I wait.
Wiskeria is ready. Beniar is in position. The plan is set.
And its nearly ti to surprise everyone.
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