The Wandering Inn

Book 2: Chapter 12

Because it was magic, they were able to talk to each other despite being far apart. Over four hundred miles separated the two, but to Lady Magnolia and Teriarch, their conversation felt as if they were sitting side by side.

If he closed his eyes, Teriarch could imagine Magnolia sitting by him. Not the older, distinguished [Lady] of now, but the young girl of then.

Thirty years? Forty? He lost track sometimes. It seemed like it had all passed in the blink of an eye, a single beat of his heart. But now the girl full of laughter and mischief was gone.

In her place was a woman no less than the girl shed replaced. But she was different. Youth and energy had been overtaken bywell, more energy, but of a different kind. Hopes and dreams became ambitions tempered by practicality. Impulse and instinct became wisdom. Recklessness transcended to grace.

He loved her for it. But she was growing older. That was something neither he nor she could escape. In time, she would die. Not nownot for many years still. Decades, perhaps. But she would die, and he would remain. Unchanging.

It was his nature, and Teriarch felt it weigh more heavily whenever he found someone like Magnolia. A rare mortal with a spark. It was their nature. They brought light and passion to his life, but like sparks and fireflies, they died all too quickly.

Because it was magic, they could speak even from this distance. Because it was his magic, they could speak without fear of eavesdropping, even from the most powerful mages living on the continent. But it still didnt mean she could be here, in front of him. Magic could do many things, but it was only a means to an end, not an excuse for miracles.

Teriarch harrumphed irritably. But power necessitated safeguards, especially in Reinharts case. It would be difficulteven for himto disable her complex protections and teleport her all the way here. And vice versa. His home was warded with more spells against intrusion than he could remember. No, transport was impossible.

So they talked. Because it was magic, they could hear the emotions in each others voice, sense the subtleties of their dialogue. Sometimes, Teriarch wished this were not the case.

I cannot believe you let her find her way into your little cave and let her go without even asking her name!

Teriarch winced and adjusted his spell so Reinharts voice was less loud in his ears. He spoke irritably into the air, his left eye twitching.

Do not take that tone with me, Reinhart. I thought she was just some Courier and an inept one at that. I healed her and gave her a mission. How was I to know it was the girl? Besides, I did ask her name at the end.

And I can see it did you a world of good. Well done.

Some said Magnolia Reinhart, the deadly flower blooming in the north, was a [Lady] of unflappable grace and cunning. But Teriarch had known Magnolia for a long time, and she was far more direct and cutting with her remarks with him.

She survived. I teleported her back to the city. Besides, your information didnt help me locate her. I tried to scry her numerous times before and after I met her, to no avail. This is on your head.

Magnolias voice cracked back through the magical spell, making Teriarch wince and wish he could cast a [Silence] spell on her until she calmed down.

I told you her name, and she told you her name. Ryoka Griffin. If you cant scry her, it must be your magic thats at fault. Perhaps shes warded in some way.

No magic could defeat my spells so utterly. No, there must be some trick to her name.

It was the only explanation Teriarch could think of. Scrying required the exact name of the person he wished to see, or failing that, a piece of clothing or some part of them. He wished hed kept some of the blood shed dripped all over his cave, but of course hed burned it all away.

She must have lied to me, and to you.

How, pray? She doesnt have any skillsor levels! Shes a girl without a class, Teriarch. Do you know how extraordinary it is that she made it to your cave without any help?

Teriarch growled.

Im well aware. And my abode is not a cave.

Your little hovel, then. Your crack in the side of the mountain. Your little pit where you hoard shiny objects and hide from the world. I am telling you, that girl is important!

Indignant, Teriarch opened his mouth to retort, but Magnolia rolled right over him, as shed done so many times in the past.

I asked you to tell me if she did anything unusual. But only now do you tell me that she threw off the spell you cast to make her deliver your ridiculous letter to Azkerash.

Its not ridiculous at all. Its an important message.

Its pointless. And a ring? Is it magical, or merely symbolic?

Of course its magical.

Teriarch was somewhat miffed. Who would bother with nonmagical rings? He tried to regain control of the conversation.

My message isnot as important as why Ryoka Griffin was able to break my spell. Are you sure she has no classes?

Very sure. Which is why I asked you to learn more about her.

Teriarch ground his teeth together angrily. But Reinhart had a point. She always had a point. It was just that he disliked how her pointing things out tended to make it seem as if he was incompetent. He opened his mouth to retort and paused. Something was tugging at the edge of his thoughts. He frowned.

Hold on. Something is approaching my caveI mean, my place of residence.

Teriarch muttered a word, and a picture appeared in his thoughts, depicting the surrounding area of the High Passes. He focused on the image and blinked.

His jaw dropped about three meters.

I dont believe it. Its her.

Her? Ryoka?

Shes in the High Passes, heading this way.

What? Why?

How am I supposed to know that? Silence, woman. I have to concentrate.

Ryoka was running straight through the pass towards his cave. Well, she knew the location, but she wasnt under attack. Teriarch frowned. Why was that?

Lady Magnolias voice shrilled in Teriarchs mind, making him wince irritably.

Make sure she gets here alive! You must

Yes, yes. But she doesnt seem to need my assistance.

There was something to it. Teriarch could see monsters nearby, but they were moving away from Ryoka. Why?

Teriarch frowned, drew in a deep breath, and coughed. He felt a terrible stinging pain in his nose and nearly gagged as a faint odor assailed his nostrils. He looked around.

What is that smell?

What smell?

-

Half a day earlier

I cant do this. Dealing with pushy shopkeepers is one thing, but I cant handle people. I justnever know what to say.

Garia and I took a break from Octavia once Id pried my potion from her grip. I needed a break, and I also needed to tell her about the Horns of Hammerad.

Id nearly forgotten she didnt know. And the worst part was, she started asking me how their journey into the ruins had gone. She was so cheerful, and I wiped the smile right off her face.

Ididnt know how to say it. Ive never had to break bad news to anyone. And it was horrible.

She started crying. Garia just sort of folded in on herself and started crying. In the street, I mean. In front of everyone.

What are you supposed to do when someones lost someone? What would Erin have done? I just sort of patted Garia on the shoulder and waited for her to stop. But she couldnt. I stood there, trying to calm her down and

It took her a long time before she stopped crying. Her face after all that wasnot a pretty sight. I gave her a handkerchiefa bandage I kept for injuries, reallyand she told me she could find her way back to her inn.

That was it. I watch Garia as she stumbles down the street, eyes red and puffy. Damn it. What was I supposed to do? What was I

People. It shouldnt be like this. I shouldnt have to deal with them. This is what comes of having people who think they know you. If I were alone I wouldnt have this issue. And the Horns of Hammerad. They

They shouldnt have died. Not like that.

Sometimes I just feel so tired. But then I keep going, keep running forwards because thats all I know how to do. I cling to what I know. Ceria is alive, and I owe it to the others to make sure shes okay.

Money. Eighty gold pieces. Money for power, security, freedom. I never had to worry about that back home. I wasnt rich

Actually, I was. Having a father who counts as a big hitter in both politics and business means that I earned about as much as someone working just above the poverty line as an allowance. And thats even without counting the things I got as presents.

Not a good thought. But its better than thinking of how miserable Garia is right now. Well. At least all of this has one good effect. Im royally pissed when I walk back into Octavias shop, the accurately named Stitchworks.

She brightens up the instant I walk back in. The entire time Garia was upset, I could sense her watching us from the door. I think she was afraid I was going to leave with my potion before she could get another chance to study it.

Oh, good. Youre back. What was that outside? Bad news for Garia? Thats a real shame; you let me know if theres anything I can do to help, okay? The girls a good customer and I have a bit of a soft spot for her to tell you to truth.

I just glare at her. Octavia doesnt miss a beat. Shes ushering me inside in an instant, closing the door and locking it behind her. That doesnt exactly worry meif she wants secrecy thats fine. But if she wants to try to rob me, Im more than happy to introduce her to my shoe*.

*Yeah, shoe. I got a new pair and ditched the Gnoll boots I was wearing. Theyre still tight, but I healed the blisters and at least these ones fit more or less. Damn snow. I hate running in shoes.

Anyways, Im sure shell feel better after a cry and a bit of a rest. Hot fooda bathyou and I, weve still got business to attend to.

Octavia doesnt quite point at the potion on my belt, but her eyes gleam with avarice. At least shes honestly greedy. But it still annoys me.

The stitch-girl spreads her hands on her counter and takes a deep breath. Here comes the pitch.

Now, I know I insulted you earlier with my offer. Well, Im prepared to offer you quite a deal. Fifty potions, complete as soon as I brew them. Ill trade that forhalf of your potion, and Ill even throw in

Shut. Up.

Gratifyingly, Octavia does. She blinks at me as I rub at my forehead. I try to get my thoughts straight. Why the hell am I back here? Oh yeah.

I point at Octavia, trying to keep my eyes off the stitches on her shoulders in case thats rude or something.

No offers. No deals. I dont know how expensive this potion is, but Im not selling it.

Octavias mouth shoots open and I speak louder.

But Ill give you some. A sample. If you stop talking and give me what I want.

I have her attention. And Octavia seems to be smarter than your averagestitch-person, because she doesnt try to sweeten the deal or talk.

Heres what I want to know. Firstinformation about alchemy and your kind if none of thats a deadly secret. Second, I want a consultation on how to get through the High Passes alive.

For a second Octavia blinks at me, surprised. And then her eyes gleam and she smiles.

Well, I know a good deal for me when I hear it. And youll give me part of your potion?

I hold up one finger.

One tablespoons worth.

Octavia frowns.

Thats not a lot. For as much information as you want, I should get at least half a cup.

The potion isnt that big. I glare at her.

For what? Talking? Ill let you have a 1/64^th of a quart. Hows that?

She hesitates and I can see her working out the numbers in her head.

Heh. Id prefer a bit more than that. How about three ounces? Thats quite fair.

I raise an eyebrow.

No. Five teaspoons.

Six.

Five.

S

Five.

Ill take that.

Octavia grins and gives in. She sticks out a hand and I take it. I cant help but smile a tiny bit as I take her hand. Shes got a strong grip, and when we let go she smiles even wider.

Even a small bit is worth quite a lot, you know. Far more than a few minutes or even hours of me talking.

Id guessed as much.

I probably could have bargained her down to one teaspoon or even a few drops, but that would be too much work. One of the few lessons my dad taught me that I took to heart was always know how much you can get away with in a deal and how far you can push the other side.

So, youve got questions. Ive got answers.

Octavia steps out from behind her counter and motions to a chair, but I shake my head and lean on the counter. Theres enough paraphernalia and objects around her shop that Id be more afraid of knocking something dangerous over if I sat.

Im interested in alchemy and how it works.

And me, lets not forget that. Is this the first time youve ever met one of the String People, Ryoka Griffin?

It is.

Well, lets start with that. I can tell you Im just like you, more or less. I feel sensations and its not like I have any special tricks. I cant throw my arm at you and strangle you like a Dullahan and I die if someone cuts me apart. WellI might survive that so long as my head doesnt get too badly damaged, but I burn easily. Sort of a trade-off, dont you think?

Octavia speaks easily as she finds a stool and sets it behind the counter so she can sit and talk. She speaks fast and clearly, which is actually something I prefer when I have to converse.

Anything else? I can change my body, its true. But its not like I can just turn myself into someone else like that.

She snaps her fingers for emphasis. I nod, and try to focus. Gather information. Ask the unspoken questions, the good ones.

But you can change yourself? That fabric that makes up your bodycould you change how strong you are, or what you look like?

I could do that. If I wanted to. I told you, I added some muscle for this job, and I guess I could add a bit more. But the fabric doesnt expand forever, and besides, that messes with my body if I disrupt the balance. Its all quite complex, you know. Just like alchemy. Which, by the way, isnt easy to pick up if thats what youre asking.

I wasnt. I wanted to know how it works in theory. And can you change the pigment of your skin and the arm itself? Could you use another arm for instance, or are you limited to your originalfabric?

Hah! A scholar, are you? Ive never met a Runner like that. Only mages are that interested, but they generally know how alchemy works. What we do is take magical effects and imbue them into potions, or other objects mainly. We use reactionslike how flint and steel create sparksjust on a bigger scale to make potions that perform a certain way.

Octavia points to her arms. The skin of her bare shoulder looks completely normal, and its hard to remember the cotton fabric that had been there before.

My arms just cloth. Its not special, although I suppose theres something here thats not just stitching and cotton, huh? Back home, people argue about it all the time. Generally, you could say its the majority of me that makes Octavia. Take too much of that away and I die, but given time I could completely change out all of my body and still be me.

She grins.

In war, soldiers often switch so many parts that sometimes a guy will come back looking quite attractive! Its hard for a wife to find out her husband is even better endowed than she is.

I have to laugh at that. Octavia chuckles too, and keeps going.

I have dark skin because thats what the folks around me sewed me with. I guess I could change it, but I dont mind looking different even if other people do. Why? Does it bother you?

Ive seen people with darker skin than yours.

Really? Where?

Oops. Crap. Steer the conversation away. I shake my head.

Doesnt matter. Ive been around. But your alchemyhow can you just say its a reaction? Ive seen healing potions work and thats no mere reaction. Theres magic in the potions.

Well of course.

Octavia looks nonplussed. I suppose thats just natural around here.

But do you have to be a mage to make a healing potion? How does it work exactly?

Im no mage. No, all you need are magical ingredients. You render them down by boiling and mixing and then you combine the right ones andpoof!

She makes an exaggerated motion and laughs.

Well, its not quite that simple. But you get the idea.

It still doesnt make sense. How does magic work like that? Its not a substance, or anything physical. How can you convert it into liquid form? Orchange the nature of it? Unless there are healing herbs of something you just boil into a liquid.

Octavia laces her fingers together and cracks them.

Wow. Youve thought about this, havent you? Well, to answer your question, its about magic in things. Everyone and everything has magic in them. Usually its not muchjust traces in rocks and grass. But something like a mana stone has quite a lot of magic, and often the magic has qualities.

Qualities? Like certain effects?

Something like that. Nothing too impressive; you cant start casting fireballs from a flame salamanders skin, although it will give you a horrible rash and a burn. But it has its own qualities. You can turn it into a salve or cream to resist fire, but if you want to use it any other way you need to change the magic into something else.

Octavia spins away from the counter and makes her way to the large racks of potions. She carefully takes one out of a holster and shows it to me. This bottle is full of a clear, faintly grey liquid.

This is one of the secrets behind alchemy. Magic exists in the object it inhabits, but it can be extracted and contained in things. Like liquid. This is a base liquidsomething we can use to store the magic. If I take an ingredientlike the salamander skin and dissolve it in this substance, it can hold the magic and let me add more things to the mixture.

So thats the secret.

I gaze at the grey liquid and imagine it. Sort of like chemistry but with a million reactions. Take a base, add ingredients and pray like hell you get it right.

Pretty much. Of course, alchemy isnt as simple as just adding the right things together. Sometimes theres the order that matters, and stuff like heat and time affect magic as well. You cant use moon dew in a mixture unless the moons actually waxing and its night, and Goblin ears need to be boiled while youre mixing or they congeal.

Goblin ears? I try to let that one go, but its hard. Octavia keeps talking, showing me other potions.

Its unpredictable, and of course, dangerous. But thats [Alchemy] in a nutshell. Its not just potions like a lot of people think. Mind you, a lot is potions. Theyre just the easiest way to mix a lot of ingredients. But I can make a tripvine bag as well, although cramming all the seeds inside before they sprout is a trick in itself. Does that answer your question.

Mostly.

Mostly, but Ive got another question about you.

Go ahead. I dont mind.

I gesture at her arm.

Do you need all the details or can you just use something that looks like an arm?

Octavia looks mildly surprised. She flexes her arm.

You saw that? Most people get too queasy to tell. Yes, we do need bones and other things. Its hard to describe to you, since you Humans never really see inside your body, but there are more things than just bone and blood and flesh. Bodies are quite complex, you know.

Im aware. But can you shape your bodies like other creatures?

For the first time, the stitch-girl looks hesitant.

Ifwe have to. Ive never seen it myself, but you hear horror stories sometimes. It can go horribly wrong if everything isnt sewn just right. Heck, if it were easy wed just stitch armies together and conquer the world, right?

Hopefully not. Last question about you. Does the fabric type matter?

Another quick smile.

Youre fast. Yes, it does. Cottons what us normal people use, but Ive seen some poorer folks use wool or rougher stuff. Quality does make us lookdifferent, and it can make us stronger or quicker depending on the fabric. Canvas makes really heavy, rough people, but they can take quite a beating!

What about someone made from silk?

Octavias eyes widen incredulously.

From silk? You mean, their entire body? Dead gods, I dont think I know anyone rich enough to do that. You barely see more than a bolt of silk on some fat lady around here anyways. It might be good, but I have no idea what that would feel like.

Huh. Thanks.

No problem! Now, is that all?

Octavias eying my potion again. I sigh and cover it with one hand.

Not yet. I had one more thing I needed help with.

Oh yes. The High Passes.

Octavia wrinkles her nose and shrugs.

Cant help. Sorry.

What, you cant do anything?

Im an [Alchemist], not a miracle-worker. There are countless monsters lurking in there. I dont have much thatll stop them.

What about an invisibility potion? Or your stamina potions? A regeneration potion? Wouldnt that help?

Octavia taps the counter with one finger and shakes her head.

First offif I could brew invisibility potions I wouldnt be in a small shop like this. And you wouldnt be able to afford one anyways. And a regeneration potion? Ask me after Ive gained fifty levels. Stamina potions I can make, and pretty good ones too. But they dont make you run faster.

Give me the run down on them.

Stamina potions? Sure. Ready for the sales pitch?

Octavia turns and puts the base potion on a shelf and pulls the glowing blue potion out again. I have the distinct feeling it should be green, not blue. But then, this world doesnt have a few decades of video games to standardize color stereotypes.

This little gem will restore your energy and give you a kick so you can run further and faster than normal. But thats only the potion giving you a boost. If you tear a muscle, its not going to heal it, and youll still be using up energy even with the potion. When it wears off youre going to crash hard. But if you need to run for three days straight

She sloshed the potion in the glass bottle. I nod.

I could use some. But that doesnt solve my problem with the High Passes.

Dont go is my solution. That place is a deathtrap. Unlessif thats the place you got the potion from, I say go for it and get me another one.

Octavia shrugs as she uncorks the blue potion. She shoves it under my nose.

Here. If youre buying a potion, take a sip and make sure you can down it. Ive had adventurers complaining they threw up before they could down some of my potions.

The smell that wafts up from the bottle nearly makes me hurl, and thats without tasting it. I push the bottle back and cough a few times.

That smells awful. Cant you do something about that as well?

Octavia looks mildly offended. She gestures at the potion.

Do you know how hard it is to add something like a flavor to potions without creating an entirely different effect? Ive seen adventurers add a bit of lemon juice to their potions to make them taste better and have the entire thing coat them in poisonous foam. Dont try that, by the way.

Well, thats a comforting thought. I try not to gag as Octavia sniffs her potion. She clearly doesnt seem to mind the horrible odor, but then, she probably inhales that stuff all the time.

But for me, its making my eyes water. Hell, its like being skunked. Id better ask how thick those potion bottles are. If it breaks in my pack, Ill either have the street to myself or get kicked out of the city. Not that I wouldnt mind the privacy

I blink. Waitaminute.

Hold on, I think I know how you can help me get through the High Passes after all.

Octavia raises her eyebrows.

Well, if it means getting paid more I can brew up anything you want. Within reason, of course. Is there something that you think will help?

I nod. Am I going to regret this? But itll probably work. If not, Im going to hate myself.

Yeah, but Ill need to buy some nose plugs as well.

Nose plugs? Hah! How many do you need?

-

Nearly a day later, I run towards the High Passes. What was it I thought the first time I came this way? Death and glory await? Something stupid like that, I bet.

This time Im ready.

I run towards the high passes, mountains looming impossibly high in the distance. A range of mountains taller than Mt. Everest breaks only in one small part to let travelers through.

Small in this case meaning a gap that you could march a small army through. Its all relative.

A tribe of Goblins runs towards me as I move towards the High Passes and snow changes to dirt under my feet. Looks like not even the Frost Faeries have gotten to this place yet.

The lead Goblin whoops and shouts as he runs at me. This tribe converged fast, and Ive got the sneaking suspicion they might be the same group as last time. Do they just watch the High Passes or are they based in this location?

Well, they might be a problem. Bows and whatnot. But Ive got faith in my new strategy, so I run on.

The first Goblin runs towards me, and then the wind changes. He takes a few more steps, and then his face suddenly contorts. His eyes bulge, and then hes running in the other direction. The other Goblins pause for only a second, and then they scream and run.

Yep. It works.

Run on. Now the High Passes are growing larger, and I hear a howl in the distance. Carn Wolves. The massive rust-red wolves that like the taste of Goblins and Asian girls. Well, I think theyll be less hungry than usual.

Im right. The wolves dont even get near enough to me to see before I hear panicked yelping and the wolves beating a fast retreat. I am untouchable. Invincible.

Into the pass now, and running quickly. The magic or rather, aura that surrounds me doesnt stop working even as the rock walls grow higher around my head.

The evil goats with teeth scream and climb away from me. The High Passes empty of life ahead of me as monsters flee from my presence.

Yes, Im safe. Totally safe, from everything. I run on while the monsters flee.

By the way, this isnt due to me gaining a skill or class or anything. Octavias potion is doing all the work.

Me? Im just trying not to throw up. Ive failed three times already, and I think I might be going down for a fourth time. The smell surrounding me is unbearable, and thats coming from a girl whos been sprayed by a skunk more than once.

Question: what is the most feared animal from our world? I sort of gave it away, but its the skunk. Fuck hippos or great white sharks or army ants. Skunks instill a kind of fear in suburban neighborhoods that you just cant match.

And what makes those little rodents so terrible? One word. Smell.

They stink. And because I had a bright idea, and because Octavia knows how to brew a decent potion, so do I.

Long story? Short story. I asked her to make something that would chase away everything that might hurt me, and she did. I used it on myself, and I regret doing it.

The smell of the potion she made was so strong that it made everyone leave the block when she brewed it. Even sealed in an airtight bottle, I practically got chased out of the city and made great time on the open road.

Applied to the skin? God. I wish I were dead.

Ive got nose plugs in, and I keep holding my breath until Im dizzy. But the smell

Its beyond indescribable. I keep hoping my nose will shut down, like it does if you smell something really bad for a long time. But though my eyes are tearing up and my nose is burning, I can still smell it.

Itll never go away. Ill be able to walk into a skunk nest and chase them all out.

Above me and to the left, a ridge of innocuous boulders suddenly shifts. I dodge away, but the gargoyles arent attacking. They unfurl their massive stone wings and leap away from me, climbing the cliffs.

Huh. Well, it turns out gargoyles do have a sense of smell. That, or I stink so bad even things without a nose can sense it.

But I asked for this. I have to keep remembering that. Its all part of the plan. And I can survive this. And perhaps the silent, noxious run wouldnt be so bad normally. Yes, if this were the only price to enter the High Passes I might consider it a deal. But theres one type of creature that doesnt seem bothered, even by the smell.

High overhead, a small cloud of faeries flies overhead and laugh loudly as the gargoyles finish running for the mountains. One of them swoops down and lands on my head as I run on, laughing and speaking loudly to her friends.

Smell her, sisters! She stinks like marsh bubbles and a witchs brew!

Worse!

Hah! Even the stony ones fear her stinkage! What foolishness!

They flutter around me, and more settle on my head. I grind my teeth. These little demons followed me out of the city, much to my dismay. I thought theyd give up on me with an entire citys worth of humans to bother, but no*.

*Yeah, thats right. I was trying to pawn them off on other people. So what? If you had to deal with these supernatural freaks for more than five minutes youd be ready to do the same.

One of the faeries laughs and pulls at my hair. I feel some hairs rip free of my scalp and I snap. Thats it. I know its a bad idea, but I swat at them and drive them from my head.

Get lost!

The faeries take off and my fingertip grazes one and goes numb. Theyre too cold to touch, and theyre not afraid. One buzzes next to my face, sticking her tiny tongue out at me as she mocks me.

Ooh, scary, scary! It bites!

I growl at her, but she only laughs and flips me off. Where the hell did faeries learn that gesture?

Why the hell are you following me, anyways? Dont you have anything better to do?

The faerie looks offended and tilts her head away. She looks to one of her friends and remarks loudly to the air.

Hark, the stinky thing talks!

Disgusting! It should die!

My foot slips on a patch of the ice and I crash to the ground. Ow!

I pick myself up and realize a shard of rock is embedded in my hand. I pull it out, and blood wells out of my palm.

Those damn

You know what? Im just going to keep running. And its not  because I know I cant do anything to them.

I get up and run down the long, winding rocky path. At least my shoes protect my feet from the sharp rocks. Now, where was that damn cave? I only barely remember reaching it last timeI was nearly dead as I recall. But I think Teriarchs place should be just up ahead

I turn past a cliff wall and suddenly a massive gaping hole taller and wider than the gates of Liscor appears in my view. Well. Im here.

I hesitate as I stare up at the faded yellow scrap of cloth anchored by a boulder over the cave entrance. Only now do I suddenly remember exactly what Teriarch is. Lets see. Now that youre really thinking over your life choices Ryoka, does it make sense to bother a possibly Elven mage of incredible power who gave you a task that you did not carry out? Yes? Well then, go right ahead. This has been a message from your brain.

I take a deep breath and instantly regret it. But Im here, and victory belongs to the bold. Also, bullets in the head belong to the bold, usually instead of victory, but Ive got to do this.

The Frost Faeries swoop down around my head, oblivious to my trepidation. They laugh as they fly into the cave, chattering still.

Ooh, does the human think were afraid of caves?

At least shes not smart enough to use iron. Wed freeze her nose off for that!

Shall we drop the ceiling on her? Or maybe

I hear the booming words as a rumble in my bones before I realize their words. A massive voice booms out of the cave, full of irritation and command.

Pests. Begone!

The effect of the massive voice is instantaneous. The Frost Faeries react as if struck. They scream and flee in every direction a second before a huge stream of fire blasts over my head. I throw myself to the ground as the heat cooks me then dissipates.

For a while all I can do is lie on the ground, shaking a bit. Holy crap. Thats a scary spell. I get up at last, not so much because I want to go in, but rather in case I need to run.

The same voice echoes from within, not quite as loud, but just as huge. It sounds out in tones of disapproval, addressing me.

Enter, Ryoka Griffin.

If I were religiousIm not, so I just hope with all my heart as I enter. I hope Im not about to die.

The cave is open and vast, not so much a cave in truth as a plane hangar, only a bit bigger than most of the plane hangars Ive seen. It makes me feel as though Im in some kind of other world, and huge as the cave is, its far from empty.

In no time, the rough ground changes from stone to smooth marble. The rough wallsstill remain, but suddenly theyre covered by paintings, weapons hanging on walls.

Pedestals appear, holding magical objects and bookshelves full of old tomes share space next to odd things I cant even describe. A mirror gilded with gold that doesnt reflect my shape? A suit of armor made out of stone? Akeyblade?

The wonders around me are unreal, but that fits the sole occupant of the cave. There he stands, in the center. He waits for me, and I feel the change in the air as I draw close.

There he is, the person responsible for at least some of my misery over these last few weeks. A mage. A man? A mystery. A dragon.

Teriarch.

-

The first thing he does is get rid of the terrible stench surrounding me. A click of his fingers, and now not only am I smelling fresh as a daisy, but the potion at my side is in his hands. I should sayin a bubble in his hands. It looks almost exactly like a bubble, as the delicate membrane swirls with all the colors of the rainbow in his hands.

He looks much the same as I remember. Which is to say, too perfect. Teriarch stands in front of me, nearly six foot six, an old man dressed in clothing fit for a king.

Hes like an archetype of humanity, a tall, faintly bronze-skinned man with white hair, but the physical presence and body of an Olympian god. He stands in front of me and looks down, his pointed ears and celestial eyes narrowed in disdain.

A massive golden-scaled Dragon stares down at me with annoyance. His massive wings unfurl and beat once, stirring the air

A gust of air strikes me in the face and I blink. What was that? A spell? Teriarch looks irritated, and waves his hand. Whatever caused the disturbance in the air stops.

Ryoka Griffin.

I dont know if its the magic or just him, but Teriarchs voice is deep and resonant. He looks at me, and my knees go weak. And not just because he looks like some kind of unattainable vision of male beauty. Hes also scaring the crap out of me, and I cant tell why. Maybe I just sense how much power hes got in him.

Teriarch.

It has been a while since I last saw you. And now, you show up just whenand bringing those pests as well. How curious.

Holy crap, this is hard. My entire plan revolved around me getting here and I didnt honestly think Id manage to do this. But Id completely forgotten how intimidating Teriarch is. Heres a guy who can teleport me with a few words and shoot fire hot enough to scare Frost Faeries, and Im about to

Its nice to see you too.

My first and last response to any situation is sarcasm, followed quickly by irony and scorn. Teriarch looks at me as if Im a bug and shakes his head.

Mm. And so I must ask you why you have returned. The last time I saw you, I gave clear instructions. You were to deliver a ring and a letter to the mage known as Perril Chandler, also known as Azkerash. You have not done so.

Yeah. Ive been busy.

Doing what?

I gulp. Teriarchs gaze is nearly impossible for me to meet. I stare just over his shoulder instead.

None of your business. But I came back to tell you I wont deliver your letter and ring to Azkerash.

Why not, pray?

You cast a spell on me.

And?

He looks completely disinterested. Thats enough to get me angry. I raise my voice.

And I dont like having people tell me to do things against my will. You cast a spell on me against my consent. For that, you can forget having me deliver anything.

Teriarch blinks in surprise, and then his eyes quickly narrow at me. He shakes his head darkly, and I feel the ominous presence around me grow stronger. Fear is eating a hole in my stomach.

Effrontery. You come here into my home and tell mebut that is your kind, isnt it? But there is something more to thisthis display of insolence, isnt there?

He strokes at his beard as he stares hard at me. Teriarchs eyes narrow.

You would not have returned after ridding yourself of my spell just to tell me you refuse to serve me. You want something else. Tell me why you are here.

He points at me, and I feel like answering him. But I bite my tongue.

N-no.

He frowns. His finger glows, and his voice deepens.

Tell me.

He looks in my eyes and I feel something touching my mind. Its the same as the first time I met him. I feel an overpowering urge to obey, to spill the beans and let him know everything and anything he wants.

But I fight back. Ive done it once before. It took everything I had, but this time is easier. I refuse to open my mouth, and the pressure builds and builds before it suddenly stops. I shake my head and glare at him.

No. Stop that.

For the first time since Ive met him, Teriarch looks well and truly floored. He stares at his fingers, and then back at me in disbelief.

Youresisted my spell. How did you do that? You have no class.

Its called willpower.

By willpower alone? That should not beI suppose it might

He trails off, eyeing me with a bit more interest and possibly respect than before. He spreads his hands.

Very well. What is it you wish to say? Why have you returned without delivering my ring and letter to Azkerash?

Hes still so intimidating, for reasons I cant even explain. But I hold my ground. I have to answer back. Im not going to just roll over, am I? Come on Ryoka! Sass this stupid mage! You can do it! You can throw some shadeyoure the shade master! Thats what they called you in school!*

*No, they didnt. They called me bitch and other uncreative names.

I couldnt find him. I checked the Blood Fields and found nothing. Oh yeah, I also found out I was under a spell and broke that too. Got a problem with that?

Yes.

Whoever Teriarch is, hes clearly not up with modern retorts. The proper response is fuck you or something to that effect. He glares at me.

The exact location of Azkerash is irrelevant. I gave you his general location. It is up to you to find him and deliver the message.

I glare back. For once, I think Im being out-glared, but I dont give in.

How am I supposed to do that? I have no idea where he is. And why should I do anything for someone who cast a spell on me to make me do that against my will?

He shakes his head as if he could care less.

You are a Runner. I have made a request. The logic is simple. You will complete the delivery.

I grit my teeth hard enough to hear my jaw creak.

No. I wont.

You will.

I shake my head. It takes more effort than I could have imagined.

I wont.

He growls at me. Actually growls!

You agreed to fulfill my request. You were paid

To collect your request and the payment. I was going to deliver it to the Runners Guild so someone could fulfill it. Possibly me. Thats how an unmarked request works. I didnt agree to do the delivery myself, much less be enchanted and forced to do it!

So what will you do? Refuse my request? Destroy my delivery? Throw it away?

Teriarch looms over me. Was he so tall before? He looks furious.

Or did you just come here to complain, Ryoka Griffin?

I stare up at him. Dont flinch. Drop the bomb.

No. I came to tell you that youre being blacklisted.

What?

My Runners pack is on my back. I flip it open and pull something out. The small Runners rule book I bought at the Guild. I open it and point to a passage Ive bookmarked.

Rule 21 of the Runners Guild states that any Runner affected by spell or Skill may refuse to provide services and cancel any request made. Also, it says that anyone who attacks, hinders, or otherwise alters a Runner in the course of their duties can be banned from receiving or requesting any future deliveries. You can see it right here.

I raise the book and throw it at Teriarch. He blinks and only a flick from his fingers stops the small volume from striking his face*. The look of irritation and incredulity on his face is almost worth whatever horrible fate Im about to endure.

*Oh yeah. I threw the book at him.

He opens the book and flips through the pages, his face a portrait of disbelief. He looks up at me.

Youcannot be serious. Do you know who I am?

No. Why not enlighten me?

His left eye twitches.

I am Teriarch, and I do not obey any requests of a mereI will not be censured by you or the Guild of Runners.

Fine. In that case I wont complete your delivery. You can have your ring and letter back.

I open the belt pouch at my side and pull out the folded letter and ring. I thrust it at Teriarch and he blinks in disbelief.

Im keeping the potion, by the way. Thats also in the rules.

You cannot do this.

Watch me.

For a second I think Ive gone too far and the mage is about to explode. Teriarchs face goes red, he yanks on his beard, and then starts shouting at the air.

No. I will notbe silent, woman!

Im too scared to make a comment about sexism, but Teriarch doesnt seem like hes talking to me. He paces back and forth, mutters darkly into the air, and then looks furiously back at me.

I must have that delivered. And I will have you do it. No! I insist! It will be so!

Im not doing it without another deal.

Then ask! What is it you desire, human?

Okay, keep your cool Ryoka. I gesture with my hand aimlessly at the entrance of the cave.

I went to the Blood Fields, but didnt find anything. You said hed be there or surrounded by the undead, but how can I find them? This continent is big. I have no idea where this Azkerash is. If you want me to do the delivery, you also have to give me some kind of map.

Teriarch stares at me. He takes a breath, releases it, and nods curtly. His hand raises palm up, and he says five curt words that make my ears ring. I cant even remember what he said, only that when hes done, hes holding astone?

Yes, a stone. Justa rock. A smooth one, but not much larger than my palm. Its completely normal, aside from the glowing arrow of golden light etched in the center, of course. It rotates around and then points southwest fixedly in his palm.

Teriarch tosses it at me and I nearly drop it. Its warm.

Here. This will point without fail towards his magical signature. Would you like anything else? Or should I give you a flying carpet as well?

Do you have one?

The look Teriarch gives me should fry me in place, but his gaze twitches just a bit to the right side of the room. No frickin way. But he recovers and when he points at me this time, the tip of his finger is glowing ominously.

You will deliver the ring and letter to Perril Chandler or you will regret it, Ryoka Griffin. That is a promise.

The sight of that glowing finger scares me more than a zombie trying to eat my throat or Gazi with her sword. Im terrified out of my wits, but my mouth and body are on autopilot. I hold up a hand.

Not so fast. Casting a spell on me means you forfeit the payment for the request you made. If you want me to deliver your damn letter and ring, make me a better offer.

Pay. You.

A blood vessel throbs on Teriarchs temple. I gulp.

Yeah. Pay me. Or else. Asshole.

I really, really should have shut my mouth before I said that last word. I wait for the fireball, but Teriarch just stares at me. I thinkhe might be too stunned for words.

-

Teriarch stared slack-jawed at the impudent human in front of him. He had half a mind to simply blast her into little pieces, but it was a very small half. Really, the only thing in his mind besides shock and outrage was a tiny bit of admiration.

Tiny. Miniscule. But hed never been challenged to his face quite sososo originally as this. Rules and regulations? As if mere words could restrain him.

But he had to admit, the rules did have a certain hold on him. He was a creature of his word; he might be above the law, but he respected it as a concept. And indeed, perhaps something he should pay heed to. He did little communication by Courier, but if he should indeed be banned

Very well. I suppose restitution can be made for yourinconvenience.

The human stared up at him, unblinking. She was so strange. Whod ever heard of someone willing to brave the High Passes not once, but twice? And to complain? About him casting a spell on her? It boggled Teriarchs mind, but he wasnt about to show weakness.

He tried to look around surreptitiously while trying to decide what was appropriate as recompense. He spoke offhandedly to Ryoka, trying to appear casual.

I suppose forty gold pieces is not sufficient for such a task?

The human narrowed her eyes up at him.

That was the price for getting here and retrieving your request. You gave me a single potion as the price for delivery. Thats not nearly enough.

Of course. Blast. Teriarch had forgotten how the request system worked. And even he had to admit, a single Potion of Haste was a paltry reward for even a simple delivery. He was just so used to commanding Couriers that hed forgotten entirely what was worth giving.

Teriarch cast about, with his magical senses as much as his eyes. What could he give her that would placate her anger? He had quite a lot to give, but what was appropriate? A weapon? No, surely Runners wouldnt use them. Jewels? Gold? Spell books? And how expensive was a delivery, anyways?

Magnolia. What is the current rate of exchange in your wretched cities?

Teriarch whispered the words, trying not to let the human see his uncertainty. He knew Magnolia was well-versed in the minutiae of human affairs, being one herself, but she was too busy laughing at him to reply.

Scale rot. Without her to help him, Teriarch was forced to bluff. He stroked at the wretched beard humans seemed to love and tried to look stern.

For such an easy delivery, especially with the seeking spell, I feel some gold should be sufficient. Saytwo hundred gold pieces?

He had no idea if that was appropriate. The human girl paused, and then shook her head slowly. Tooth decay! She was probably offended.

Twohundred? Of course not.

Mm. Of course. Four hundredno, eight hundred would be more appropriate, would it not?

P-possibly. Fine. Ill accept that.

Teriarch narrowed his eyes, but Ryoka had already schooled her expression to neutrality once more. He nodded slowly, still listening to Magnolia howl with laughter in his head.

Very well. It is agreed.

Below him, Ryoka nodded. She looked towards the entrance to his cave and patted her belt pouch where he could sense the letter and ring he had given her were stored.

Right then, Im off. Ill complete your delivery when I have time. Im heading towards Liscor in a few days anyways.

Teriarch nodded. It was all he could expect. Hed let her go and hope she got there quickly

He paused.

Wait. What?

-

Teriarch doesnt seem to quite get it. I take a step back as I repeat what Ive just said. My heart is pounding out of my chest.

Im going. To do your delivery. Thats what you want, isnt it?

Yesno. HumanRyoka Griffin, I have much to ask of you.

Too bad.

Two more steps back. Teriarch frowns at me and raises a hand.

You cannot leave just yet. I have questions for you, and you will answer them.

I shrug at him as if I could care less.

Too bad. Im A Runner. I deliver your stuff. You dont get to ask me questions.

What? No. You will stay here.

Again, I feel the force of his magic trying to slow me, but this time Im ready for it. I flip him the bird and turn.

Try that again and Ill double my fee. You hired a Runner, and thats what you get. I dont do interviews.

I begin walking away. Its terrifying, and I feel his eyes on my back. He raises his voice angrily.

You cannot leave! Stop! I command you!

I raise one hand in goodbye.

Come back here!

Teriarchs voice is thunder, but I ignore it. I begin jogging out of the cave, tensed at any second for a fireball to turn me into a flaming pile of flesh.

But nothing happens. Instead, I hear Teriarch choking and spluttering in outrage. I increase my pace, and realize Im close to the exit. Bright daylight greets me and I run out of the cave and back the way I come.

Behind me, I hear a roar of fury that sounds almostbestial. But Im too busy running to think about that. I sprint until Im nearly two miles away from the cave before I feel like I can safely slow down.

My mind is in a whirl, but as I keep running without any consequences, I slowly, slowly relax. And then I realize: Ive done it. Ive actually done it!

I run down the High Passes. Theyre still empty, and the sky is sunny and clear overhead. Well, even these damn winter days can be quite nice if you have a mage around to scare away the Frost Faeries.

My step is light, and my body is slightly sweaty, but quite bearable to be around. Ive got a speed potion at my belt, a letter and ring worth eight hundred gold coins in my pouch, and a destination in mind.

And oh yes. Im grinning.

Definitely grinning.

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