The Wandering Inn Book 8: Chapter 6: RT

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

As one of the three mbers of the Dawn Concordat, the alliance of Calanfer, Kaliv, and Gaiil-Dro, Kaliv was naturally the first guard in northern aggression. Calanfer, most southern, would fight foes to the east and coming up from the coast. The kingdom of Gaiil-Dro, forested, ho to a large half-Elf population and the half-Elven villages was considered safest in tis of war; Pheislant was one of the few nations that would attack from the west.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The global audience, watching, even placing bets, or speculating as to the outco more as interested viewers than concerned peopleat least, those not of Terandriawere not privy to the debate between the three mbers of the Dawn Concordat. If they had been, they would have understood an argunt led to the battle at mda.

Novakya, the Griffin Queen of Kaliv.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Calanfer sent many levied, newly-minted [Soldiers] or [Militia], to the tune of nearly twenty thousand, led by one of their lesser [Generals]. If that seed paltry compared to the four hundred Griffins and armored foot in the thousands that Kaliv added to the low-level soldieryCalanfers largest contribution was symbolic and ant to be one of the striking hamrs against Ailendamus.

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

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

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

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

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

However, Ailendamus had also prepared for their foes unique compositions. They had brought the famous lance-arrows of Ailendamus, which were part of the kingdoms sigil.

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

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

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

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

He charged, committing the Thronebearers to the first charge after the infantry clashed.

-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The result, Fall Sentinel?

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

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

True enough.

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

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

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

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

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

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

That was true. But Calirn just folded his arms.

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

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

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

-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Griffin Prince. Stripped of his na, stripped of his right to succeed Novakya. Cursed, so said, by one of Terandrias monsters. He had ford a wing of [Griffin Riders] out of forr [Bandits], [Murderers], and other dregs of society, giving them one last chance to fight for honor.

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

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

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

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

He landed among the command of Ailendamus forces. Calirn saw the [Mage Marshall] blast him with a spray of poisonthen a lance of magic through his chest. He staggeredbrought up his axe

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

It didnt kill him.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The Goblin Slayer. OrSer Solstice.

And he was a Goblin.

-

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

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

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

The Winters Watcher.

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

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

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

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

Who that?

Rabbiteater had pointed. Ser Markus had explained.

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

Ah. And they are the best ones?

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

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

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

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

He was alone, though.

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

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

Right. But he was alone.

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

Ahdo not worry, Ser Solstice. If a larger force were coming, he would raise the alarm. But he would slow any foe who arrived, at the very least!

By himself?

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

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

Mm. And the other two? The

Sumrs Champion. Just as good in combat as the Winters Watch and Springs Warden!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thanks. How long?

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

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

As long as you desire, Ser Solstice.

Years?

Calirn blinked again and seed to freeze up. A huge laugh erupted from the orange-haired man.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Dead sexy, as Redfangs reckoned such things.

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

Rabbiteater glanced at Talia. She looked a tad bit uncomfortable as she bowed to the Sumrs Champion and then Calirn.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Ser Solstice. Aboutyour identity.

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

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

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

Yes. We cando that.

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

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

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

Am I in danger?

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

He felt good.

-

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

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

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

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

Co in, Da isa. Speak freely and I will give you what wisdom I have.

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

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

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

How did you?

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

She hoped he was not so well-known murderer. A mber of the nobility or adventurer? Easier to bear. He had seed forthright and honest, if sowhat unused to formalities when she had t him.

Da isa, is this sothing I need hear? I would respect his vows under most circumstances. I trust your judgnt.

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

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

The Springs Warden blinked.

-

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

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

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

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

The young woman shook her head slowly.

No, Knight-Commander Calirn, I do not.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Talia hesitated.

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

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

He nodded.

But he is a [Knight].

And a Goblin.

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

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

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

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

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

Talia hesitated.

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

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

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

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

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

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

She took a deep breath.

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

A fair answer.

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

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

Knight-Commander?

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

You are dismissed, Da Talia.

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

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

Rabbiteater had dinner.

-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

But tonight?

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

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

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

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

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

This was what Ser Markus saw. Ser Solstice entered the banquet hall and found Da Talia standing and talking with so of the Sumr Knights. The Goblin [Knight] approached. Talia saw him coming and excused herself. She moved away to get so food.

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

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

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

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

Talia.

Excuse Ser Solstice.

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

Confusion beca hurt as understanding blood. The Goblin Slayer stood there, looking after the Sumr Knight as she went over to so of the Fall Knights who looked around, surprised to see her.

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

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

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

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

Ah.

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

Ser dul and so of the other Spring Knights sitting there frowned. The senior [Knight] nodded to Markus after a mont.

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

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

Excuse , Ser Solstice of Izril! Co sit with us, tonight! The Season of Spring would welco you among us!

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

Hi.

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

I am dul of House doitof Pheislant. Shall I call you Ser Solstice or by any other na?

Solstice is fine. Lots of [Knights] here.

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

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

He spoke at last, uncomfortably, having yet to touch his dinner. The Goblins head slowly turned.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

I had help. Got lucky.

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

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

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

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

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

His heart hurt when he thought of Talia.

-

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

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

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

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

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

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

Really?

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

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

Subtly, Falls Sentinel.

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

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

aning?

The Falls Sentinel sighed.

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

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

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

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

After a mont, the Falls Sentinel clapped his hands. Calirn stirred.

I think I understand, but your aning?

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

How so?

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

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

No. Aptly put, Falls Sentinel.

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

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

Well said, Knight-Commander.

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

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

-

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

Da isa, do you believe Ser Solstice is a [Knight]?

The young Spring Knight had squird in her seat.

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

Then why do you tell of his nature?

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

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

I see. And I see your reasoning, Da isa. But I rebuke you nonetheless.

Springs Warden?

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

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

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

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

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

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

-

And the results of her conversation bore out in Rabbiteaters rooms that night. Da isa, looking a bit ashad, Ser Markus, and Ser Lloyd, all of the Spring, sat and stared as Rabbiteater slowly removed his helt.

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

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

Spring ends.

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

Ser Solstice.

Rabbiteater. My na is Rabbiteater.

The Hobgoblin was almost trembling as he put his helt down. isa blinked.

Rabbiteater? That is your na? Then you are?

Rabbiteater. Solstice wasa friend. Human.

They looked at him. The Hobgoblin stared back. After a mont, Ser Markus almost laughed.

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

You want to know?

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

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

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

It is an extraordinary tale, surely.

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

Ser Lloyd looked uncomfortable. Rabbiteater shook his head.

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

A what?

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

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

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

Erin Solstice.

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

Yes. After the big battle.

The siege with Lord Veltras. But the inn stands?

Rabbiteaters heart hurt.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

So, you are a [Champion] and beca a [Knight] after eting us?

Lloyd looked at Rabbiteater. The Goblin shrugged.

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

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

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

His tone was disbelieving. Rabbiteater smiled.

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

Lloyd looked at Rabbiteater. Then he sat back.

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

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

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

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

We swore an oath, Ser Lloyd!

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

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

Humans kill Goblins. Goblins kill Humans.

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

Rabbiteater shrugged again.

No clue.

Lloyd collapsed with a sigh.

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

Yes. Gold-rank adventurer.

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

Lloyd leaned in. Markus as well. isa listened as Rabbiteater tried to explain.

-

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

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

What do you do all day?

Train.

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

Cool.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

You run like this every day?

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

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

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

Ser dul barked a laugh as he looked over his shoulder.

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

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

Youyou used a Skill, didnt you?

Nope.

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

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

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

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

You can use a flamberge?

Mm. Think so.

Halberd?

Used it. Dont like as much.

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

Decent shot. My brother shoots better.

Guisar? Oh, co now. Youve never held one.

Id like to learn.

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

Youre good! Too quick!

Ser Markus complained after the second ti Rabbiteater battered down his guard. The Goblin had levels, strength, and experience on his side. Ser dul raised a hand.

Will you try , sir? No Skills?

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

Even so.

Hes matched with Ser dul, tricks or not!

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

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

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

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

You fight very well. One of the best where I co from.

dul laughed and flicked sweat out of his hair.

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

He laughed. Rabbiteater glanced at him.

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

dul blinked.

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

Markus reddened a bit as Rabbiteater glanced at him. The Hobgoblin turned to Ser dul.

What does spring do?

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

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

For answer, dul raised his sword.

[Wind Sheathe]!

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

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

Not super-hard, but with an impact.

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

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

Ooh. Nice.

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

Youre not tired.

The Spring Knight grinned.

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

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

Must be great for sex.

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

Indecorously put, Ser Solstice. But er

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

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

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

With Skills or not?

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

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

Will you use them?

She smiled.

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

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

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

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

Huh.

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

Ser Solstice, shall we continue?

He nodded. He was sure, now.

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

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

So he started using Skills.

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

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

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

[Grand Slash]!

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

going to hit her

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

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

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

Ser Solstice, are you alright?

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

Are you alright, Ser Solstice? You surprised .

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

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

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

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

Greydath? Still no. The Springs Warden?

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

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

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

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

What could you say to that but to clap him on the back and laugh? That was the Season of Spring for you.

-

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

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

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

Even so, he was impetuous, known to be hot-tempered at tis. Like fire and ice, winter and sumr clashed.

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

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

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

So it was that the Sumrs Champion was about to have a drink with the older [Knights] of the order and grouse about damned Ailendamus and the Thronebearers lack of success on the fieldin private, to ease his frustrationwhen a tap ca at his door.

He opened it.

Ser Vitin?

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

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

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

Was this right to do? She stemd the question as Vitin laid out the problem.

It is Ser Solstice, Sumrs Champion. He is

His identity? Are you privy to that knowledge?

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

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

Champion, he is

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

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

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

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

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

But Sumrs ChampionSer Solstice is a Goblin!

Vitin protested. The secret once more revealed

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

Lalalalala.

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

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

Ser Solstice is a Goblin.

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

What did you say?

He is a Goblin, Grandmaster. Now do you

-

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

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

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

Sumrs Champion?

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

Cold t hot and steam rose from the mans ire. Calirn rose. The Sumrs Champion had actually left flaming footsteps as he stomped through a garden.

Sumrs Champion, control your temper.

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

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

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

If you know, then that makes two of us!

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

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

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

Da Talia and Ser Vitin? I amupset that they broke their vows, especially as I had been inford, Sumrs Champion.

Especially of Da Talia. But Calirn didnt infla the mans temper further. The Sumrs Champion spun on his heel.

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

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

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

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

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

Hmm.

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

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

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

Sha is sha. Honor is honor. Secret is secret.

There was no prevaricating with him. Calirn nodded.

If you would like to adjudicate for you, Sumrs Champion, I will. But this is a matter of morality; at the heart of it I believe all sides acted in accordance with how they see honor. Talia Kallinads family is of Pheislant, and saw the Goblin Kings destruction. They would rember how he erased mbers of the Hundred Families down to the last person in their bloodlines.

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

The Sumrs Champion went into deep thought. Calirn waited.

Sumr was passionate. But not shallow or stupid. And at last, the taller man spoke.

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

And if you are right?

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

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

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

The orange hair shook as the Sumrs Champion stood up.

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

-

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

Good evening, Ser Solstice, is it?

Yes. You areimportant?

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

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

Why?

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

Rabbiteater considered it.

Sure.

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

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

And?

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

[Champion], and [Knight-Errant].

Both n exhaled.

[Knight-Errant]. It suits him.

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

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

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

The man raised his brows a touch higher.

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

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

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

Well?

Da Talia and Ser Vitin acted in what they thought was the best interests of the Order. HoweverI accede to Sumrs will. It is up to the Springs Warden to enforce this punishnt, as the contents of her conversation are unknown. However. Da Talia and Ser Vitin are hereby sentenced to a month of labor in nial chores, to be decided by Sumrs Champion, and stripped of any honors of rank.

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

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

It will indeed, Knight-Commander.

The Sumrs Champion strode off. Calirn sighed.

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

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

-

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

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

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

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

For a Goblin? Magnificent.

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

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

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

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

They may wish to join or learn from our season, Ser Solstice. All are welco to participate in such events. Da isa is a Spring Knight, but she may well choose our season in ti.

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

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

Watch. Listen.

Learn sothing.

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

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

You can eat that.

You can eat that too.

Cant eat that.

You can eat that, but bad poos.

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

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

Fascinating. And this is Gwood lore from where you co from?

Yes. You can eat that too.

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

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

The [Knight] gave him a calm rebuttal.

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

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

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

Traps are hardly the act of valor.

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

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

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

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

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

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

We are not [Healers]. But if you lack for onethis Balm Root combined with a mix of the following leaves and flowers is said to have beneficial qualities against infection. We have tried to preserve the paste, but it is ineffective. Ive suggested taking all the samples along for larger expeditions, but the order has not yet implented this.

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

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

RabbitSer Solstice. May I ask a question?

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

Blood.

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

Fromwhom?

My brother. Liscor. He died there.

Oh. I

She gulped.

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

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

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

Ser Solstice?

Okay.

But I

He shrugged.

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

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

But I had no cause.

Yes you did.

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

But I am still ashad, sir.

The Goblin Slayer tilted his head. After a mont, his visor ca up. She saw lips move up in a grin.

Good. Trade sandwich and I forgive you.

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

Ser Solstice?

Mm?

Do you truly like rabbits that much?

He leaned over.

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

Ah.

-

Ser Solstice! Do you have ti tonight?

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

Yes. Sothing wrong?

Not at all. Lets have a drink. I wanted to et the man who acted so valorously for our Order. Co, co!

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

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

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

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

Rabbiteater froze. The man was looking at him.

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

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

You know I ama Goblin?

Yes.

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

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

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

The Sumrs Champion blinked at him. Then he laughed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

What happened?

The Sumrs Champion shook his mane of hair.

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

Rabbiteater nodded.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The intense disdain for the Thronebearers skill-at-arms was sothing Rabbiteater could get behind. The Sumrs Champion slamd a hand on his back.

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

Good.

Really? Lets see.

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

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

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

Good show! Are you well, Ser Rabbit?

The other stirred at the accidental use of his na, but Rabbiteater liked it.

Good! Can fight

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

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

He is good.

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

Well done. Well done.

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

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

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

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

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

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

Talias ears twitched at the na. That couldnt be a nickna. She wanted to know. And feltshe saw the Sumrs Champion indicate the woman.

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

He grinned. The [Sumr Knight] smiled.

Bravado in the air, laughterit was sothing actually a bit foreign to Talia. She felt more stiff than Rabbiteater at this mont, as if theyd reversed sides. Sohowhe knew the company of veterans more than she.

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

Maybe. Think I can win.

The Season of Sumr liked that. They laughed, or urged him to give it a shot. Da Voost indicated the enchanted axe.

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

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

The Sumrs Champion declared. Rabbiteater just shrugged.

Practice sword works.

Oho. Talias eyes narrowed at the sa ti as Da Voost. Was he taking her lightly because of her gender? So [Knights] did

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

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

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

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

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

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

What now, Ser Solstice? Are you giving up?

She called to him. The Goblin grinned.

No.

Pick up your sword, then.

No. Fight .

He challenged her. And thenthe Sumrs Champion burst out laughing. So of the other Sumr Knights shook their heads. Talia was appalled.

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

Thats not honorable.

Nothe Sumrs Champion watched as Da Voost hesitated, then tossed down her blade to the cheers of others and raised her gauntletsand put on a helt.

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

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

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

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

She clapped him on the shoulder. The other Sumr Knights nodded. Rabbiteater grinned behind his helt. He saw Talia watching and looked at her. She glanced away.

-

One week later, Da Talia was heading to her rooms to scrub the scent of crap off her. She was angry, humiliatedbut not just because of her punishnt.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

-

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

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

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

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

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

Disarmingly friendly.

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

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

Pass the mustard, please.

Of course

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

Apparently, soone had asked the Season of Fall to provide a vision-scrambling charm such that you only saw darkness if you glanced under the visor. Da isas request had been answered by the Falls Sentinel, and now Ser Solstice ate in company.

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

Is mustard common among Goblins?

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

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

Goodcondints. Like ho. No mayonnaise, though?

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

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

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

Which are?

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

You know how to cook?

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

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

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

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

-

The Springs Warden was similarly disard on another occasion when she and the trainees paused for fun.

Tilting?

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

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

Similarly, the act of tilting, with a lance, wasnt a Goblin ideal. He was still willing to learn, and amused to hear there were entire tournants around the sa thing.

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

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

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

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

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

-

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

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

Checkmate.

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

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

Hes quite good.

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

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

-

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

A springs romance.

Da Talia jumped. Soone else had observed the mont which had driven her to fury. She had nearly gone after Da isabut the huge figure stopped her.

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

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

He is not of our order, Sumrs Champion!

The man frowned at her and she mastered her tongue.

If he was, I would claim him, Da Talia. And if he isSpring and sumr complent each other. Spring invigorates sumr, and it is a good match. A passing thing, but why do you frown?

You know why.

He raised his brows.

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

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

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

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

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

She lifted her chin, and he nodded.

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

She didnt reply. His eyes studied her. And they were as rciless as the blazing sumrs day for a mont.

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

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

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

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

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

This was a nice place. He was having a good ti. The Goblin smiled to himself.

He was having an adventure.

-

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

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

And if that seed like a generalist statent, a judgnt inherently speciesist or racistwell, he agreed. And hed seen a lot of Human proclivity in his lifeti.

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

Children!

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

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

Blackmail, sex, and so on.

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

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

Ah, the foibles of the flesh.

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

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

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

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

Thus, the two had ford the base of the new political faction. The, ahTerras faction of Wistram, which had no relationto anyones na, was ostensibly one based around the old na of Earth. Terra. Also, the word in the old language.

Earth. Grounded. Sensible, pragmatic.

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

-

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

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

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

People laughing, or posing in front of buildings. Airplanes in the sky. Evena picture of video gas. Valeterisa had stared at one. Teriarch had wondered if it was harder than Cookie Clicker.

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

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

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

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

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

Is there any commonality with magic? Is there a portal? Is this related to the Demons activity? Query #221, pressingwhat is the chanism by which this electricity forms that screen without magic? Can we communicate

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

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

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

Grand Magus, you had a question?

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

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

The Garudas beak opened. The [Mages] blinked.

Youknow of Earth?

Eldavin sniffed.

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

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

When they ca by with a list of itemsby the Revivalist faction, which ant they were hoarding knowledge from each otherEldavin skimd down it.

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

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

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

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

How they progressed, even without magic.

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

-

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

[Mages], I co from an era before Zelkyr was Archmage. I rember old magicand Wistram has changed. So, while I have agreed to demonstrate so spells, you will first show your thods.

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

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

He pointed. A young man spluttered.

What? Why?

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

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

I see students of every stripe here. No Gnolls?

Gnolls?

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

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

Half the class was frozen. At last, a young [Mage] raised her hand tremulously.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Does it matter, Grand Magus?

A student protested. Eldavin stared at her.

Get out.

But I

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

But magus, theyre Rings of Well and Concentration

The half-Elf lood over the unfortunate Human.

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

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

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

Terandrian schools still have it.

Eldavin comnted to the girl who had co in Treys class. He nodded at so [Mages] from similar backgrounds; castigated those who didnt have this grounding.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

?

She squeaked. The Grand Magus shrugged.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Chandler! Archmage!

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

Here, he fought.

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

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

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

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

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

The Necromancer never used a blade!

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

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

He pointed.

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

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

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

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

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

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

When it was done, no one knew quite what to say. Valeterisas eyes were shining. But so of the students seed unsettled by the heroic account of the Necromancer. Eldavin clapped his hands, briskly.

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

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

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

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

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

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

-

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

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

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

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

Lifesand Golems.

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

He had tea with Valeterisa.

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

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

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

Her eyes locked on his.

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

He harrumphed.

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

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

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

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

Excellent. AhMage Telim, even?

He added himself to the list.

Then I will accept him without reservation. He seems quite qualified, if a bit lazy. No olfactory component in his illusions, which I think ruins the entire experience. Sll completes, dont you agree?

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

-

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

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

Leave the Wind Runner alone, Archmagus.

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

She is under my protection.

The half-Elf coldly t the Lamias glare. But she was able to match him look for look. Yesmore dangerous than she seed. Naili smiled.

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

Implicitly, my dear Archmage Nailihuaile.

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

He put down his cup and reached for another pastry.

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

He t her gaze until the smile vanished.

-

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

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

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

There is no discernible portal, Archmage.

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

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

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

No indeed, Archmage. And it would be my delight to talk about counterasures. Perhaps so large-scale anti-combustion spells?

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

Of course. After dinner? Most excellent.

-

Feor was interesting. Teriarch played chess with him, and thought that he was the second-best player he had ever t.

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

Grand Magus, I would like to trade knowledge.

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

Feor grimaced.

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

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

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

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

Eldavins eyebrows shot up.

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

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

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

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

-

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

Fortify.

The half-Elf slowly took a sip himself. He replied, after so asured thought.

Sanctify to fortify.

He enjoyed Verdans company more than any other Archmages. Purely because the Dullahan rituals and observances were far more refreshing to partake in than the faster politicking. After so thought, Verdan placed the cup down on the Dullahans stylized tray.

Will you clarify, Grand Magus? I feel as though I have lost your aning.

A sha, because theyd gone back and forth with the simplistic, yet intricate layers of thought and reply for the last two hours. Eldavin nodded.

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

A cautious nod in reply.

My passions, Grand Magus, lie with my people, who have adopted , as much as Wistram. I believe my fellow Archmages consider my position biased, if not compromised.

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

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

Security, to . Fortify.

The half-Elf countered.

Sanctify, Archmagus Blackwood. Who is worthy of eting another world as equals? Wistram, as it is? Sanctify.

-

Archmages. Students. Eldavin.

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

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

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

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

Or

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

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

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

He turned his head. The giant woman halted.

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

One who thought. One who lived. She stopped, nine feet tall, and looked down at Eldavin.

Grand Magus Eldavin. Do you co here to take my masters test?

Her voice was hostile. Eldavin blinked once at her. He inspected her, then pinched at his nose.

No. But kindly tell that thing to move or I will force it to.

He looked at the invisible Golem made of flesh. Cognita hesitated. It was looming next to him, jaws open, but the half-Elf didnt seem to even be affected by the ntal invisibility. She gestured; it moved back slowly.

Eldavin studied Zelkyrs legacy. He saw what Feor ant.

A Golem of magma. Another, made of steel, vastly tall, perhaps thirty feet, incredibly thin, a mismatch of blades and death. The invisible flesh-Golem with its noxious aurahe coughed.

And a replacent for one, a War Golem, a giant tal monster that a half-Giant would fear to fight.

I expected more dangerous at first. Until I realized they were concealing their true natures. Quite, quite clever. But you are the fifth, arent you? To pass, one must destroy all five.

He comnted to Cognita. The Truestone Golem stiffened.

[Mages] had died here in the challenge without realizing what this half-Elf had. Eldavin stared at the magma golem and snorted.

No wonder the Archmages would rather argue and sit about than attempt this. Tell , what was Zelkyr thinking? Did he intend to stifle magic with his last action? Or is hewaiting for sothing?

He turned. And Cognita, whose face was almost always placid, who talked with Archmages as levelly as students and visitors from abroad

Frowned.

Grand Magus Eldavin. I rember you. You were indeed present when my master road Wistrams halls. You have not changed. Not one hair. Are you the Eldavin of then?

He paused for one second.

Golem mories. He should have at least changed his hair style or added more wrinkles. He had forgotten soone as old as heand with a perfect morywas here. Even Feor had barely rembered him.

I am Eldavin. Can you not sense the truth of it, child?

Do not call child. I am Cognita.

He blinked again.

But you are Zelkyrs child. And I am your senior, as old as you may be. Girl.

He reminded her. Cognitas marble eyes fixed on him. Her porcelain form began to

Change. Into sothing harder. TruestoneEldavin blinked again.

Strange. He had thought she would seek him out and they would have a convivial talk about the old days after they had looked at each other. But this?

If you do not co here to take the test, Grand Magus, I will request you leave. This place is not ant for [Mages] to linger in.

I respectfully decline.

The Golems stirred. Eldavin never took his eyes off Cognita. And her face was thunderous now.

You refuse?

I decline. Is that a rule of your test or is it your request?

It is my determination.

The Dragon slowly spread his arms.

Then, I request you alter your determination for , Miss Cognita. I am not here to take your test. If you fear I am learning sothingor preparing a great magic? I am not. You can see that. Nor would I need to. I know the nature of each Golem. I have seen their kind. I am not here to take your test. That is not why I returned to Wistram.

So you say.

The woman shifted. Eldavin was still puzzled. Why was she so wary? Shed changed to anti-magic armor. And she was set like she was about to charge him. He looked at her

Then his perception wavered. He saw himself, as she might see him.

A half-Elf from a ti when magic had been stronger. Coming at this ti, with other powerful [Mages] to Wistram when Eartha new threat or opportunityhad arisen.

The half-Elf faltered. His heart stung him. Oh no. Cognita hesitated as he clutched at his chest for a second.

She thinks I am here to destroy her. This child thinks

Fear. That was what he saw. The half-Elfs head rose. And Cognita saw a strange emotion in his eyes. One she had seldom seen even before she had been given this long duty.

Pity?

Miss Cognita. Noshould I say, Cognita Arwing

The Golems in the room shifted.

That was Zelkyrs last na. Eldavin went on.

I am not here to challenge Zelkyrs might. I am not here to do battle with his children, least of all what might be the last of his three. Oldest, and last. I ca, hoping to ask you

He hesitated. But the Golem was hostile and he had already mistepped, by accident. She had seen his magical acun. So he said it.

is Zelkyr not still alive? If so, will you not ask him to return?

The Truestone Golem made no move. But for a secondthe Golems of Wistram stuttered about their duties. She looked at the half-Elf. And she was certain.

You are not a Grand Magus. Who are you?

Will you not allow entry?

If you attempt it, you will die.

She warned him. The half-Elf lookeddistraught.

Child.

Do not call that.

Cognita had not spoken so forEldavins eyebrows drew together. He was trying to be understanding. But he was still a Dragon.

Young woman. I advise you not to take that tone with . I walked this very ground before your master was born. He was a strong [Archmage]. But you can see how this accident is curtailing magic. Does the ergence of another world not change your opinions?

The Truestone Golem looked at this stranger. Conflicted. How long had it been since soone asked that? Yes, she had opinions. But even she had forgotten that she had once exercised hers.

Then. But he ca from a ti before even then.

Grand Magus, my masters order remains. What is there to speak of?

Spoken like a good child. And you were, werent you?

She shook with the shock of that statent. Eldavins old eyes were pitying again. He shook his head.

Ti has changed, Cognita of Wistram. I do not believeno, I know that Zelkyr would not have created this test to last nearly a hundred and what, a hundred and fifty years? He would have replaced that Golem. Sothing has gone wrong.

One of the Golems wastwitchingCognita stared at it and it stopped. She thoughtthen fell back to a response.

I will not answer speculation as to what lies above.

Eldavin tugged at his beard, vexed by her obstinate response.

Sothing is wrong. Perhaps I can help. Or not. Either waythis is a harsh request for a sentient being. I have known Djinni set to similar tasks. I wished to speak with you in friendship, not this way, young woman. Zelkyr

Archmagus Zelkyr set to this task, Eldavin of Izril. He will decide when I am to be relieved. Only his words, no one elses.

And is he alive?

The word cracked around the room. Silence resulted. Eldavin looked at Cognita. He took a breath; controlled his temper! He exhaled, slowly.

Even so. Acknowledge for a mont, Miss Cognita, that this order is in error.

My master does not make errors.

The half-Elfs left eye twitched. He couldnt let this one go.

What a ridiculous statent.

Cognita drew herself up. That was the wrong thing to say. Her eyes flashed ruby-red. Literally.

Do you insult the Archmage of Golems?

I do! Or at least, I argue that he was not without flaw. Even Dragons are not without flaw!

The half-Elfs bold retort in front of the mightiest Golems present astonished her. He strode forwards and shoved a finger up at her.

A dutiful daughter can go too far, young woman! You are not the Truestone Constructs who rebelled of old, but you would do well to be more independent than a Sentientno, Autonomous-class Golem!

Cognita reflexively gasped. It was such an old insult that shereacted

She hadnt heard that kind of insult sincebut the half-Elf wasnt done. His ire was piqued, and he had a barbed tongue when he was mad.

This entire test is a stupid idea, even if Zelkyr had just popped upstairs for a week of study! Its selfish, close-mindedwhat was it for, to stifle the other Archmages from getting a head start? Theres plenty of room up there and danger even for every Archmage over the last thousand years! What about Archmage Chandler? Would you have blocked him?

That question is moot. Archmage Chandler is dead.

Hah

He caught himself and both stared at each other. Eldavin rushed on.

the point is that this is a ridiculous, power-grabbing move. Petty.

I warn you to retract your insult.

Her eyes narrowed. She lood. He snapped.

Retract? Petty is what I ant! Drakes can be the most childish, petty creatures in existence! And it seems Zelkyr never rose to beco more than the average Drake, in the end!

Enough!

Her body turned to flashing lightning. A geldavin threw up a shield as thunder bood. He stumbled back.

Cognita nearly advanced on him, but held herself back. Her body was shining crystal now. She pointed a finger at the half-Elf.

You will not slander my master! He was an [Archmage]! Greatest of his kind! Without flaw or failure!

Her wrath would have cowed even the Archmages. A being of her magnitudethe half-Elf looked up at her.

Without fear. Just a bit of sadness. And that stopped Cognita. He shook his head.

No, he was not. He was a mortal man, child. You speak as if I was not there. I rember him. We both knew he failed at tis. Or do you forget what happened to the first of your sisters at Rhir?

He rembered. He had lived those tis, sa as her. That made Cognita hesitate. She listened, furious, hungry, as he went on.

Zelkyr, greatest of his kind? He was a genius, yes. You are shaped by that vast intellect and imagination. But also, his flaw. That he left more genius than not in his creations is his greatest legacy.

Youcannot say this.

More emotion than she had felt in a century was flooding through the Truestone Golem. What was this stranger? He waved a finger at her.

Can I not? When did words beco anathema to Wistram? See the issue, young woman? Listen to , Cognita Arwing. I see two truths here, and know not which it is. But I present to you both as I see it: if Zelkyr is alive, then this is a terrible, rciless, stupid and thankless charge put upon you.

He pointed at the waiting Golems.

He is wounded, or in need! Or has abandoned the world as Archmage Valeterisa did. Either way, you are more than a sentinel. You are Truestone, and you must choose to be more than this.

He tapped the ground with one foot. Then looked up at her.

The other answer is that he is dead. In which case, you protect a dead Drakes final orders. But you are then free. And you must be more. Which is it? Which?

His words echoed in this place. And they, at least, were nostalgic. Easiest of all the things he had said so far.

Countless [Mages] had stood here and told her the exact sa thing. Even the Necromancer had urged her to

But even her masters old friend had not shifted her. Cognita drew herself up. She knew the truth of it. And held it within her as she replied.

My masters will remains his will. That is all I will say, Magus. Nothing will sway .

She felthollowly triumphant at being able to reply thusly. And what would the Grand Magus do? Rage? Insult her master?

He looked at her, and exhaled. Cognita waited. And Eldavin scared the hell out of her.

So thats how it is. I see.

He shook his head. The Truestone Golem hesitated.

What do you an?

Thats my answer. Well then, young woman. I think we had both better cool down. I hope we can speak at another ti

He began to walk around her. She blocked him, reflexively.

You do not know the answer. I did not give it to you.

He eyed her, almost amused.

Child, I hate to tell you thisbut you just did.

She stared at him. It was a bluff. It had to be.

That is impossible.

No feature of hers had changed. She was impossible to read; even the Archmage of Death had asked her to know her feelings. Eldavin just snorted.

Oh, impossible. You say that in Wistram? For sha.

He prodded her in the stomach since he couldnt reach any higher. The Truestone Golem recoiled. Eldavin snorted as he walked past her.

I know how your kind behaves, young woman. I told you, Im old. Even stone has a tell. When you are ready to be reasonable, co find .

He walked off. Cognita stared at his back. She raised her fist.

She had never wanted to hit an old half-Elf as much as now. And Feor had been in power for nearly eighty years. She slowly let him leave the floorthen walked out of the room. She found a room and punched through one of the walls.

-

Eldavin was upset after the confrontation with Cognita. He hadnt expected to be soemotional. Maybe hed given too much away, said too much. But it was like eting a Djinni.

He sat in his rooms, trying to control his breathing, analyzing the event as impartially as he could.

And that was when it hit him. All of it. It ca together in a mont of perfect clarity and genius.

His issue with Wistram, trying to shape it through his faction, the ti limitand now this.

The Dragon sat back and laughed. He went over, grabbed so cookies, all the gifts hed been plied with, and began stuffing his face. He felt a weight lift off his shoulders.

That was how to do it. He recalled what Ryoka had begged of him.

Be active, be present. But halfway. Interfere, but not fully, but do it.

He had agreed with her, which is why he had co here. Because he could not sit after being provoked. Nowhe saw the way forwards.

Cognita of Truestone was the most extraordinary being in Wistram, bar only himself of course. And people treated her like a glorified servant, or a simple guardian.

She was Truestone! Those blathering Archmages? The Council? Dust, compared to her!

She was perhaps the last of her kind, and if not, one of the last. Her people had been created, risen, and been destroyed. She had been created and beco the first once more.

He knew them all. All the old nas, that people had forgotten ever existed.

The Djinni were enslaved. Their children, the Jinn, had been wiped away.

The Harpies had lost their lands and hope.

The Giants were all but gone.

And the Dragons ti was done. The last Dragonlord of Fla sat there, chewing on macaroons until one got caught in his mortal throat. He hacked it up and stared at the thing trying to kill him.

The last of us should not be so petty and end so.

He inford the macaroon, the room, the world. The Dragon rose. He stood, and left his rooms. He had work to do.

-

Archmage Viltach opened his door as Eldavin stood in front of it. The Grand Magus looked a bit embarrassed.

Archmage, I have a confession to make. Im working on a new project, and I realize Ive left so of my reagents at ho. Could I borrow so mithril dust for runework?

Eldavin had tried to get so, but been inford the [rchants] werent stocking it as commonly as in the old days. So hed gone inquiring. This was the [Mage] equivalent of asking for a cup of sugar.

Of course.

Viltach was only too happy to do a favor for Eldavin. He proudly found a vial.

How much do you need? I have anything else you might need

Could I trouble you for, oh, four pounds of processed magicore?

Viltachs fingers slipped as he opened one of his cases containing the valuable materials. Normal magicore? Fine. But processed? Four p

Of course. And its quite good. Elental-less, of course. 99% purity!

He heard a snort from the doorway. Eldavin folded his arms.

Everythings 99%, Archmagus. Whats the actual purity?

Excuse ?

The man froze with his hands on a jar, heavily sealed. Eldavin repeated himself.

The actual purity? Im talking the numbers after the decimal point.

The numbers after? Viltachs mouth opened and closed.

Erzero?

Zero?

Eldavin looked outraged. He muttered.

You dont pre-purify before using it? Well, fine. Ill take six pounds then. Er

He saw Viltachs face and caught himself. Eldavins eyes flickered. Then he smiled.

not that I dont use 70%, er, pure magicore myself from ti to ti! Its just that this isthe most intricate project. Cant leave it to chance. Thank you.

He took the six pounds of pure magicore. Viltach gulped at the small fortune as Eldavin shut the door. Then he hurried to check if?

-

99% purity. Hah! Might as well use sawdust.

Eldavin grumpily sprinkled so mithril dust hed run through a few purification spells afterwards. He eyed the rune work and decided he was going to need a semi-contained world to practice this on. Sha he couldnt make Truestone Golems himself, but hed do tests.

It was going to take a long ti, even for a Dragon. Wellnot if he really worked at it. He grumblingly began to work on the formulas, wishing he could consult with his spellbooks.

He wasnt that good at this kind of magic, and this was going to push even him. He wished he had even one damn Skill, but no

Even so. This was the plan. This was true magic. And it would be his gift, from one of the last to the other.

Cognita. This was how he changed Wistram, and the world for the better. Wait, Ryoka Griffin. He just had to cast one spell and then he would let Wistram be. One spell.

The Dragon smiled to himself.

He was going to set her free.

Authors Note: I am write too much. This last part I thought would be uh, about 3,000 words less. However! I hope you enjoyed the two half-chapters I put together because neither one was quite long enough on its own.

Goblin slice-of-life and Dragon slice-of-life arent like Erin slice-of-life. But its all hopefully fun to read, informative, and so on and so on.

Im not making sense. Im tired, and Ill see you in the next chapter! For now, Ill leave you with that and wish you a happy read! Until next ti!

Eldavin, Tkrn, and Frozen Erin by /peekay

Saliss Box by Midas!

Tkrn Toot, Cat Revi, Halo Numbtongue and more by /lechatdemon

Stash with all the TWI related art:ssta.sh/222s6jxhlt0